N.B I don't own anything you recognise *cries*
Chapter 3-A Fireside Chat
That day after the marking Draco walked around Hogwarts following the normal every day routine of school life: attending classes, hanging round with the other Slytherins and giving detention to whomever he could (just 'cos he could). However, he couldn't help but look at the school and its students differently-none of them knew about the night before and few of them ever would. This made him feel weird inside in a way he couldn't describe and, to make himself feel better, he gave a Gryffindor detention for laughing too loudly.
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In Care of Magical Creatures that afternoon Draco noted that Harry and Ron ushered Hermione as far away from him as possible. He tried to concentrate hard on the task Hagrid had set them, which was discovering the best camouflage for a Dugbog-an odd creature resembling dead wood although it had finned paws and sharp teeth. Unfortunately he found his mind, more than once, wandering to the events of the previous night-he had thought he and Hermione had worked OK as a team, considering she was a Gryffindor- hell, they'd almost been getting on OK, but this morning she was like a different person-she avoided his gaze as much as possible, instead focusing on hiding her Dugbog against some dried leaves.
During the lesson Draco saw Hagrid go over to the famous trio and bend down to talk to them, obviously under the pretence of showing them how to correctly feed a Dugbog, as they'd found it's best camouflage. Much to Professors Sprout's distress Dugbog's favourite food was Mandrake and at this moment Hagrid was shoving one down the throat of an already rather fat Dugbog.
Draco tried to listen in on what was being said but it was difficult- although he did catch his name a few times and there was defiantly a near constant stream of dirty looks being cast his way from Harry, Ron and Hagrid (he noted still, Hermione's lack of eye contact).
What the hell were they saying about him?! It was annoying him now and in his rage he accidentally let go of his Dugbog which jumped off the workbench and began gnawing at Crabbe's ankles, who tried to shake it off but simply resulted in banging into the workbench in a couple of times his awkward running movement. Draco ignored him.
Draco's bad mood continued throughout most of the day until after tea when he made his way down to the Quidditch fields for practice. At least he could forget everything now; or so he thought.
As he approached the playing fields he could see two groups of figures-one green and, he groaned, one red. The last thing he needed now was Pretty- boy-Potty and his sidekick Weasel and the wonder-squad Gryffindors finding a reason to kick off. He sauntered over to the group and stood in front of the other Slytherins.
"What the hell do you want Potter?" he spat.
"Well, while you're asking in such a polite way, you dropping dead would be a good start." Called up Ron. Draco rounded on him:
"Oh how witty you are Weasel boy...how much did you have to save up for that cracker that had that, ahem, putdown in it...'cos you were ripped off." The Slytherins laughed at Draco's comeback.
"Come off it Malfoy." Glared Harry, "we want the pitch...we've booked it."
"Ah yes, but seen as WE also booked it and as Slytherin captain AND Head Boy-a title you don't own-I have decided to overrule your booking for ours."
"You can't do that." Objected some little third year Draco didn't, and didn't really care to get to know.
"I think you'll find that I can and I just did." Draco shot back.
"You really are a bastard." Retorted Ron.
"Gosh, you ARE doing well today aren't you Weasel?!"
"You just want it all don't you Malfoy." Spat Harry.
"Indeed I do Potter, and I thin you'll find that I have it."
A few sixth year Gryffindors moved forewords but Harry held them back with a hand.
"C'mon." he said, glaring at Draco, "We'll practice tomorrow. Those low down Slytherins aren't worth it." He turned and the Gryffindors followed.
"Water off a duck's back Potter!" Draco shouted after them and the Slytherins, led by Draco cackled maliciously at the shrinking figures of the Gryffindor team.
Within minutes Draco was soaring through the air looking for the Snitch as his team-mates flew past him. He had kept his place as Seeker on the team because even though his was a striking six foot two, Draco was still the leanest player on the team; the rest were all built like brick walls.
It felt good to be flying. He didn't have to worry about anything. He felt fantastic and practice was going well; if all went to plan they'd win the cup for sure. Although saying that there had been rumours that the cup would be cancelled this year due to recent events. Knowing Dumbledore though, he'd want school life to continue as much as possible.
After an hour or so the wind became bitterly cold and the rain began to come down. Draco decided to end the practice and dismiss the team. He skipped the shower room too, opting to head back to his private rooms and shower there.
He gave his password-"Acromantula"-and entered the room. As Head Boy he received private rooms (note plural), consisting of a large room, half of which contained a settee and two arm chairs set around a large stone fire place. The other half of the large room was the bedroom half, holding a giant four poster bed and a small study area. Off this half there was a small kitchen and a full bathroom.
Draco had re-decorated when he'd moved in: The previous tenant had been a Gryffindor and this was apparent in the way the room had been left, decked out in reds and golds, which had made Draco wretch on sight. A wave of his wand though and all was well again as he surrounded himself with various shade of green, silver and black.
Draco stripped *(Mmmmm.....picture that)* and headed for the shower. He turned the power onto full and stepped under the stream, letting it massage his aching muscles: he hadn't realised how hard he'd worked in Quidditch practice. He groaned as his pain was relieved by the hot water. He shoved his head under the downpour and, pressing his outstretched hands against the cool tiles he shook the water from his eyes before running his hands through his hair.
After a few minutes more he stepped out of the shower and, grabbing a towel he walked into the living area. There was someone there.
"What the fuck are you doing here?"
Hermione smiled and raised an impressed eyebrow at his naked form. Draco quickly wrapped the towel around his waist.
"Oh, that's nice." She finally responded, "What a way tot treat your guests."
"How the hell did you get in?"
"I was right behind you when you came back from practice-you didn't hear me calling. I got to the door but you'd shut it and didn't answer when I knocked. I'd overheard your password so I decided to use it."
He scowled at her.
"Wait here while a go and get dressed." He muttered and, never removing the scowl from his face he grabbed some clothes out of the closet and stormed over to the bathroom, slamming the door behind him: he was going to make it completely obvious that she was NOT welcome. Unfortunately, slamming the door didn't work as all he heard from her was not her getting up to go, but a slight giggle. This made him feel more unsociable.
He quickly got dressed and rubbed his dripping hair dry, leaving it ruffled and standing out: he didn't care.he wasn't going to make an effort for Granger.
He walked back into the living area. Hermione cast an eye over him: she couldn't deny he was looking good-black skate jeans and a black T-shirt suited him, and a silver chain around his neck complemented the outfit, giving him a certain Je ne ses Quai (CHECK) that she couldn't quite out her finger on. She mentally topped herself:
"This is MALFOY!!!" she told herself, "Remember Draco I'm-a-pure-blood-and- therefore-the-best-wizard-whoever-lived Malfoy."
At the same time that this was going through Hermione's head, Draco was looking at her: she looked so different than to when he'd last seen her out of classes.at the revel. She now wore a pair of flared jeans slung low on her waist and they were so long her feet were hidden. She also had on a simple black strappy top and her hair was in two cute pigtails; she looked so young and innocent ("well," thought Draco, "apart from that Dark Mark on her hipbone, just visible above her jeans!"). It was like she was a different person.
"So why you here?" he asked. He was still annoyed at her for being there in the first placed, and was more annoyed that she hadn't taken the hint and gone.
"I got a message from Dumbledore." She replied "He wants to hold a Yule Ball this year, to help raise the spirits of the students, and he wants us and the prefects to organise it as much as possible."
"Great!" scoffed Draco sarcastically, "that sounds like masses of fun."
"C'mon," she persisted "It might be fun."
"Only you, Granger would find organising a shitty social event like a Yule bloody Ball, any kind of fun. What is pleasurable about being forced to attend a night full of bloody glitter, fairies and ice, with crap music and people you don't like?"
"It might be fun." She repeated, a look of eager desperation in her eyes.
"Yea, right. I don't think." He retorted.
"Well, you have to do it so why bother complaining about it?"
"Because I don't want to do it." It's a crap job.let's just leave it to the prefects."
"Look, you can't just off load all the crap jobs to the prefects simply 'cos you can't be bothered." She said, and Draco smirked seeing her anger rise.
"I don't see why not." He smiled, throwing himself onto the settee and putting his feet up.
"You are so infuriating Malfoy."
"Draco." He corrected.
"You are going to help me plan this ball whether you like it or not."
"Not." He interrupted, fully enjoying this opportunity to wind her up.
"You can throw as many temper tantrums as you want because they won't work on me. You ARE going to help." And with her outburst finished she sat down in one of the large green chairs and, slinging one leg over the arm she settled down.
"You really are full of cheek aren't you Granger."
"Hermione." She smirked, but he ignored her and continued, still amazed at her brashness:
"First you eavesdrop on my password, then you let yourself and make yourself at home."
She simply shrugged in response, trying t look as innocent as possible. "You know," Draco said, "Most people would be too damn scared of me to do what you just did. How d'ya know I won't hex you?"
"Please, you big, bad Slytherins don't scare me" and Draco couldn't help but smile.although he tried to hide it.
"You're bold Granger, I'll give you that."
"Hermione." She corrected again, "Now, how about a drink."
"Help yourself." He muttered, "you will anyway."
Hermione slid elegantly off the chair and headed over to the kitchen.
"Try the cabinet over there." Draco called, pointing a finger over his shoulder in the vague direction of a large dark oak cabinet standing against the wall. She did. She gasped.
"You'll be in soo much trouble if any of the teachers find this." She gasped, staring at the array of alcohol in front of her, "You're underage and alcohol isn't allowed in school."
Draco shrugged:
"Like half the teacher's don't have a stash of their own.I know for a fact that Snape has a stash of Firewhiskey and McGonagoll is partial to a bit of Berry Sherry. Anyway, I'll just tell 'em it's all to help me with the stresses of being Head Boy."
She laughed-a sexy laugh he noted. He closed his eyes and heard her pouring a drink then head back to her seat, setting two glasses down. He opened a suspicious eye-there was a glass of Merlin's Brandy in front of him.
"Glad to see you can out it in the right glass." He smirked.
"I may be muggleborn, but stupid I am not." She retorted. His smirk turned into a smile.
A glass of white wine in her hand she resumed her position in the chair. Draco sipped his Brandy and closed his eyes again.
"So, we'd better get started." Hermione said. Draco grunted, keeping his eyes shut.
"Look, I'll compromise with you-we'll try and plan some stuff together and if you completely hate it or we don't work well together then either I'll do the work or we can just work separately. Anyway, the prefects will be planning most of it once we've organised the main aspects: Dumbledore understands that we've got commitments to The Order. Anyway, I don't mind the work." This got his attention and he opened one eye, raising a suspicious eyebrow again:
"Really?" He asked.
"Really." She responded.
That arrangement suited him fine-if the prefects were going to be doing most of the work then he wouldn't have to raise a finger. Now she could have his full attention. He sat up.
"Deal." He said.
"Ok, we'd better get started." She waved her wand and a file, a diary, paper, pen and a pair of glasses appeared in front of her. She put the glasses on and thumbed through the diary. Draco had never seen her in glasses before and he felt a smirk begin to form on his lips.
"Laugh and die." She said and the smirk froze where it was before disappearing altogether.
"Touchy." He said and downed his Brandy and Accio'ing the bottle so he could pour himself another. She didn't respond until.
"Right the ball's to be held on the 20th."
"Of?!" Draco asked.
"December." She retorted, "Honestly Draco.you're supposed to be intelligent."
He remained quiet.she'd called him by his first name.
"The 20th is best 'cos that way some people can go home for Christmas day after the ball, although I bet most will stay.a lot of wizarding families especially.so many people are either working for The Order or the Dark Side that I bet they are busy over Christmas.it's such a shame." Her voice was full of sadness as she spoke, but when she saw him watching she tried to brighten up, "Anyway, I though tonight we could focus on theme and entertainment."
"Hang on, what year's it for?" Draco asked.
"Um..all of them I guess." She replied, sipping her wine.
"Uh-uh, no way." He replied immediately, "There's no way that would work- the older years aren't gonna want to share with any year under four or five."
"Good point. D'ya think we'd get waya with two balls?"
"That's a better idea."
"We could keep the same them and entertainment-save organisng twice-just have them on different days." She flicked through the diray again, "Um.one on the 19th and the other on the 21st."
"Brilliant." Draco replied, truthfully and without a hint of sarcasm..he couldn't believe how well they were working together.
"We need to check with Dumbledore though. Ca I use your Floo Powder?"
"Sure." He responded, going to top up Hermione's drink whilst she stuck her head in the fireplace and spoke to the Headmaster. She had just finished, and was getting up from her knees when he handed her her glass.
"Thanks." She smiled, taking the glass and brushing a loose ringlet away from her face, leaving a smudge of soot. Draco laughed.
"What?" she asked.
Draco reached up and wiped the soot off her cheek-he noticed how smooth her skin was. He showed her the soot on his fingers.
"Thanks." She repeated.
"Well, what did Dumbledore say?"
"He thinks it's a brilliant idea. You know what he's like-any excuse for a party and if he can get away with two then it's even better." She smiled, sitting down again. Draco returned to his seat.
"Ok, so we need a theme and entertainment." He said.
"I can't think of a theme but what about having the Weir Sisters play?"
"Um.we could but the only problem there is they haven't released any stuff for a while-we could do with someone who's doing stuff at the moment.what about the Silver Snakes?"
"How very Slytherin." She smirked, "Um.who are they."
"There a really cool group-most people in wizarding families will know them...no offence. I think I've got summat by them somewhere."
He got up an wandered over to his bed, picking up a small, square object he tapped it once and the music of the Silver Snakes filled the room. He returned to his seat where Hermione was nodding along:
"I like them." She said, "they sound like Stereophonics."
"Who?"
"Welsh muggle group." She explained and Draco felt none the wiser.
Think we'll be able to get them OK?" she asked.
"No problem." He said, "Dumbledore knows the bassist."
"That man's acquaintances never cease to amaze me.apparently he also knew Elvis.Gods know how." Draco smiled again.he seemed to be doing a lot of that tonight.
They chatted about Dumbledore's acquaintances a it more before Hermione suddenly yelled:
"I've got it!!" Draco jumped at the volume:
"Calm down.what have you got?"
"A theme.fancy dress." She grinned
"I am NOT dressing up as a Christmas pudding." Draco sneered.
"No, no, not just a Christmas theme.an anything fancy dress theme.that way it doesn't have to be Christmas related and people can dress up as much or as little as they want."
"I suppose that's not as bad then."
"What d'ya mean "It's not that bad"? It's a brilliant idea." She laughed.
"If you say so. I just hope everyone else agrees with you.
"They will: Everyone enjoys dressing up, now matter how old they are ."
Draco remained dubious but silent.
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"Can I ask you something?" Hermione suddenly asked about an hour later as they were going over the fine points. Draco looked up from his plan of the Great Hall and stopped prodding the small Christmas trees he was trying to position.they stopped walking and sat still.
"Sure." He responded.
"Why d'ya still hate me, Harry and Ron? We're all on the same side now."
This took him by surprise-he hadn't been expecting that. He took a deep breath:
"Hate's a bit of a strong word. True, I did used to strongly dislike- Potter was the centre of attention: the world's saviour, Wealsey was basically just an idiot.still is really, and you were an insufferable know- it-all who got me into a world of trouble at home 'cos you got higher grade's than me.."
A hurt look appeared on Hermione's face.
"Hey." He said, "I said 'were'.you're not so bad now." He smiled, she joined him and he continued, "Anyway, like I was saying I USED to dislike you but after fifth year.when everything changed I realise maybe you weren't that bad after all. I figured I might as well give you the benefit of the doubt if we were gonna be on the same side."
"All of us?"
"Well, you're ok.we're not best friends or anything but we get on.partly 'cos we have to and partly 'cos we want to."
"I agree with you there." She said.
"But Potter and Weasley seem to loath me guts."
"I see what you mean but it's not you personally hate it's your values and what you stood for for all those years."
"My PARENT'S values.not mine."
"Fair enough.so why d'ya have to pull rank over Harry on the Quidditch pitch before? Couldn't you have just shared?"
"Hermione, you don't get it do you? I'm like the king of Slytherin-or supposed to be-you know, all pureblood rules etc. Potter and me have always hated each other and despite us being on the same side now we still don't like each other and we've got to overdo that for the other students- it's like a show to them; to watch me and Potter take digs at each other. It's complicated and it's stupid, but it's also out of our control." "I THINK I get it now.although you men and your pride.it makes me laugh."
"You're one to talk.you were sorted into Gryffindor.the house of pig- headedness and pride."
She pretended to look hurt but couldn't control the smile that crept over her lips.
"So you're the king of Slytherin and I'm a pig-headed Gryffindor.what a team. Harry was still pissed at you though."
"That figures.he's so wound up he'll pop one of these days."
"He's got a lot to deal with.being the one in the prophecy and all, only one who can defeat Voldemort etc."
"I know, but he still needs to calm down-probably pent up sexual frustration."
"Don't be mean," she giggled, "just 'cos he's not a ho like you." Now it was Draco's turn to look hurt.
"I'm not a man ho." He protested before breaking into a grin, "I just enjoy female.company."
"Hmm.whatever you say." Hermione smirked.
"Anyway, Draco continued, "we've got a lot to cope with to.it's not just wonder boy Potter who plays a part in saving the world."
"I know.but he's the one everyone knows about so he's the one to get the attention and pity."
They chatted for a couple hours more until:
"Eeek!!!" squealed Hermione looking at her watch; "It's nearly tow o'clock. I'd better go." She stood up and waving her wand, cleared away all their papers and empty glasses.
"Sure." Said Draco standing up. "Take the secret passage at the end of the corridor.it'll take you straight to the corridor with your rooms on it.that way you won't get caught."
"Good idea." She said, "Thanks."
He walked her over to the door. An awkward silence ensued:
"So." muttered Hermione.
"So." replied Draco.
"So." she repeated.
"You've had your turn." He smiled. More awkward silence.
"I guess I'll see you around."
"Yeah, I guess."
"See ya." She said, turning and opening the door.
"Yeah.um, bye." He muttered.
She slid out of the door and turned to wave as she went down the corridor. He waved back, and as he shut the door a slow grin slid across his face: they'd defiantly made that second step Dumbledore had been talking about.
Chapter 3-A Fireside Chat
That day after the marking Draco walked around Hogwarts following the normal every day routine of school life: attending classes, hanging round with the other Slytherins and giving detention to whomever he could (just 'cos he could). However, he couldn't help but look at the school and its students differently-none of them knew about the night before and few of them ever would. This made him feel weird inside in a way he couldn't describe and, to make himself feel better, he gave a Gryffindor detention for laughing too loudly.
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In Care of Magical Creatures that afternoon Draco noted that Harry and Ron ushered Hermione as far away from him as possible. He tried to concentrate hard on the task Hagrid had set them, which was discovering the best camouflage for a Dugbog-an odd creature resembling dead wood although it had finned paws and sharp teeth. Unfortunately he found his mind, more than once, wandering to the events of the previous night-he had thought he and Hermione had worked OK as a team, considering she was a Gryffindor- hell, they'd almost been getting on OK, but this morning she was like a different person-she avoided his gaze as much as possible, instead focusing on hiding her Dugbog against some dried leaves.
During the lesson Draco saw Hagrid go over to the famous trio and bend down to talk to them, obviously under the pretence of showing them how to correctly feed a Dugbog, as they'd found it's best camouflage. Much to Professors Sprout's distress Dugbog's favourite food was Mandrake and at this moment Hagrid was shoving one down the throat of an already rather fat Dugbog.
Draco tried to listen in on what was being said but it was difficult- although he did catch his name a few times and there was defiantly a near constant stream of dirty looks being cast his way from Harry, Ron and Hagrid (he noted still, Hermione's lack of eye contact).
What the hell were they saying about him?! It was annoying him now and in his rage he accidentally let go of his Dugbog which jumped off the workbench and began gnawing at Crabbe's ankles, who tried to shake it off but simply resulted in banging into the workbench in a couple of times his awkward running movement. Draco ignored him.
Draco's bad mood continued throughout most of the day until after tea when he made his way down to the Quidditch fields for practice. At least he could forget everything now; or so he thought.
As he approached the playing fields he could see two groups of figures-one green and, he groaned, one red. The last thing he needed now was Pretty- boy-Potty and his sidekick Weasel and the wonder-squad Gryffindors finding a reason to kick off. He sauntered over to the group and stood in front of the other Slytherins.
"What the hell do you want Potter?" he spat.
"Well, while you're asking in such a polite way, you dropping dead would be a good start." Called up Ron. Draco rounded on him:
"Oh how witty you are Weasel boy...how much did you have to save up for that cracker that had that, ahem, putdown in it...'cos you were ripped off." The Slytherins laughed at Draco's comeback.
"Come off it Malfoy." Glared Harry, "we want the pitch...we've booked it."
"Ah yes, but seen as WE also booked it and as Slytherin captain AND Head Boy-a title you don't own-I have decided to overrule your booking for ours."
"You can't do that." Objected some little third year Draco didn't, and didn't really care to get to know.
"I think you'll find that I can and I just did." Draco shot back.
"You really are a bastard." Retorted Ron.
"Gosh, you ARE doing well today aren't you Weasel?!"
"You just want it all don't you Malfoy." Spat Harry.
"Indeed I do Potter, and I thin you'll find that I have it."
A few sixth year Gryffindors moved forewords but Harry held them back with a hand.
"C'mon." he said, glaring at Draco, "We'll practice tomorrow. Those low down Slytherins aren't worth it." He turned and the Gryffindors followed.
"Water off a duck's back Potter!" Draco shouted after them and the Slytherins, led by Draco cackled maliciously at the shrinking figures of the Gryffindor team.
Within minutes Draco was soaring through the air looking for the Snitch as his team-mates flew past him. He had kept his place as Seeker on the team because even though his was a striking six foot two, Draco was still the leanest player on the team; the rest were all built like brick walls.
It felt good to be flying. He didn't have to worry about anything. He felt fantastic and practice was going well; if all went to plan they'd win the cup for sure. Although saying that there had been rumours that the cup would be cancelled this year due to recent events. Knowing Dumbledore though, he'd want school life to continue as much as possible.
After an hour or so the wind became bitterly cold and the rain began to come down. Draco decided to end the practice and dismiss the team. He skipped the shower room too, opting to head back to his private rooms and shower there.
He gave his password-"Acromantula"-and entered the room. As Head Boy he received private rooms (note plural), consisting of a large room, half of which contained a settee and two arm chairs set around a large stone fire place. The other half of the large room was the bedroom half, holding a giant four poster bed and a small study area. Off this half there was a small kitchen and a full bathroom.
Draco had re-decorated when he'd moved in: The previous tenant had been a Gryffindor and this was apparent in the way the room had been left, decked out in reds and golds, which had made Draco wretch on sight. A wave of his wand though and all was well again as he surrounded himself with various shade of green, silver and black.
Draco stripped *(Mmmmm.....picture that)* and headed for the shower. He turned the power onto full and stepped under the stream, letting it massage his aching muscles: he hadn't realised how hard he'd worked in Quidditch practice. He groaned as his pain was relieved by the hot water. He shoved his head under the downpour and, pressing his outstretched hands against the cool tiles he shook the water from his eyes before running his hands through his hair.
After a few minutes more he stepped out of the shower and, grabbing a towel he walked into the living area. There was someone there.
"What the fuck are you doing here?"
Hermione smiled and raised an impressed eyebrow at his naked form. Draco quickly wrapped the towel around his waist.
"Oh, that's nice." She finally responded, "What a way tot treat your guests."
"How the hell did you get in?"
"I was right behind you when you came back from practice-you didn't hear me calling. I got to the door but you'd shut it and didn't answer when I knocked. I'd overheard your password so I decided to use it."
He scowled at her.
"Wait here while a go and get dressed." He muttered and, never removing the scowl from his face he grabbed some clothes out of the closet and stormed over to the bathroom, slamming the door behind him: he was going to make it completely obvious that she was NOT welcome. Unfortunately, slamming the door didn't work as all he heard from her was not her getting up to go, but a slight giggle. This made him feel more unsociable.
He quickly got dressed and rubbed his dripping hair dry, leaving it ruffled and standing out: he didn't care.he wasn't going to make an effort for Granger.
He walked back into the living area. Hermione cast an eye over him: she couldn't deny he was looking good-black skate jeans and a black T-shirt suited him, and a silver chain around his neck complemented the outfit, giving him a certain Je ne ses Quai (CHECK) that she couldn't quite out her finger on. She mentally topped herself:
"This is MALFOY!!!" she told herself, "Remember Draco I'm-a-pure-blood-and- therefore-the-best-wizard-whoever-lived Malfoy."
At the same time that this was going through Hermione's head, Draco was looking at her: she looked so different than to when he'd last seen her out of classes.at the revel. She now wore a pair of flared jeans slung low on her waist and they were so long her feet were hidden. She also had on a simple black strappy top and her hair was in two cute pigtails; she looked so young and innocent ("well," thought Draco, "apart from that Dark Mark on her hipbone, just visible above her jeans!"). It was like she was a different person.
"So why you here?" he asked. He was still annoyed at her for being there in the first placed, and was more annoyed that she hadn't taken the hint and gone.
"I got a message from Dumbledore." She replied "He wants to hold a Yule Ball this year, to help raise the spirits of the students, and he wants us and the prefects to organise it as much as possible."
"Great!" scoffed Draco sarcastically, "that sounds like masses of fun."
"C'mon," she persisted "It might be fun."
"Only you, Granger would find organising a shitty social event like a Yule bloody Ball, any kind of fun. What is pleasurable about being forced to attend a night full of bloody glitter, fairies and ice, with crap music and people you don't like?"
"It might be fun." She repeated, a look of eager desperation in her eyes.
"Yea, right. I don't think." He retorted.
"Well, you have to do it so why bother complaining about it?"
"Because I don't want to do it." It's a crap job.let's just leave it to the prefects."
"Look, you can't just off load all the crap jobs to the prefects simply 'cos you can't be bothered." She said, and Draco smirked seeing her anger rise.
"I don't see why not." He smiled, throwing himself onto the settee and putting his feet up.
"You are so infuriating Malfoy."
"Draco." He corrected.
"You are going to help me plan this ball whether you like it or not."
"Not." He interrupted, fully enjoying this opportunity to wind her up.
"You can throw as many temper tantrums as you want because they won't work on me. You ARE going to help." And with her outburst finished she sat down in one of the large green chairs and, slinging one leg over the arm she settled down.
"You really are full of cheek aren't you Granger."
"Hermione." She smirked, but he ignored her and continued, still amazed at her brashness:
"First you eavesdrop on my password, then you let yourself and make yourself at home."
She simply shrugged in response, trying t look as innocent as possible. "You know," Draco said, "Most people would be too damn scared of me to do what you just did. How d'ya know I won't hex you?"
"Please, you big, bad Slytherins don't scare me" and Draco couldn't help but smile.although he tried to hide it.
"You're bold Granger, I'll give you that."
"Hermione." She corrected again, "Now, how about a drink."
"Help yourself." He muttered, "you will anyway."
Hermione slid elegantly off the chair and headed over to the kitchen.
"Try the cabinet over there." Draco called, pointing a finger over his shoulder in the vague direction of a large dark oak cabinet standing against the wall. She did. She gasped.
"You'll be in soo much trouble if any of the teachers find this." She gasped, staring at the array of alcohol in front of her, "You're underage and alcohol isn't allowed in school."
Draco shrugged:
"Like half the teacher's don't have a stash of their own.I know for a fact that Snape has a stash of Firewhiskey and McGonagoll is partial to a bit of Berry Sherry. Anyway, I'll just tell 'em it's all to help me with the stresses of being Head Boy."
She laughed-a sexy laugh he noted. He closed his eyes and heard her pouring a drink then head back to her seat, setting two glasses down. He opened a suspicious eye-there was a glass of Merlin's Brandy in front of him.
"Glad to see you can out it in the right glass." He smirked.
"I may be muggleborn, but stupid I am not." She retorted. His smirk turned into a smile.
A glass of white wine in her hand she resumed her position in the chair. Draco sipped his Brandy and closed his eyes again.
"So, we'd better get started." Hermione said. Draco grunted, keeping his eyes shut.
"Look, I'll compromise with you-we'll try and plan some stuff together and if you completely hate it or we don't work well together then either I'll do the work or we can just work separately. Anyway, the prefects will be planning most of it once we've organised the main aspects: Dumbledore understands that we've got commitments to The Order. Anyway, I don't mind the work." This got his attention and he opened one eye, raising a suspicious eyebrow again:
"Really?" He asked.
"Really." She responded.
That arrangement suited him fine-if the prefects were going to be doing most of the work then he wouldn't have to raise a finger. Now she could have his full attention. He sat up.
"Deal." He said.
"Ok, we'd better get started." She waved her wand and a file, a diary, paper, pen and a pair of glasses appeared in front of her. She put the glasses on and thumbed through the diary. Draco had never seen her in glasses before and he felt a smirk begin to form on his lips.
"Laugh and die." She said and the smirk froze where it was before disappearing altogether.
"Touchy." He said and downed his Brandy and Accio'ing the bottle so he could pour himself another. She didn't respond until.
"Right the ball's to be held on the 20th."
"Of?!" Draco asked.
"December." She retorted, "Honestly Draco.you're supposed to be intelligent."
He remained quiet.she'd called him by his first name.
"The 20th is best 'cos that way some people can go home for Christmas day after the ball, although I bet most will stay.a lot of wizarding families especially.so many people are either working for The Order or the Dark Side that I bet they are busy over Christmas.it's such a shame." Her voice was full of sadness as she spoke, but when she saw him watching she tried to brighten up, "Anyway, I though tonight we could focus on theme and entertainment."
"Hang on, what year's it for?" Draco asked.
"Um..all of them I guess." She replied, sipping her wine.
"Uh-uh, no way." He replied immediately, "There's no way that would work- the older years aren't gonna want to share with any year under four or five."
"Good point. D'ya think we'd get waya with two balls?"
"That's a better idea."
"We could keep the same them and entertainment-save organisng twice-just have them on different days." She flicked through the diray again, "Um.one on the 19th and the other on the 21st."
"Brilliant." Draco replied, truthfully and without a hint of sarcasm..he couldn't believe how well they were working together.
"We need to check with Dumbledore though. Ca I use your Floo Powder?"
"Sure." He responded, going to top up Hermione's drink whilst she stuck her head in the fireplace and spoke to the Headmaster. She had just finished, and was getting up from her knees when he handed her her glass.
"Thanks." She smiled, taking the glass and brushing a loose ringlet away from her face, leaving a smudge of soot. Draco laughed.
"What?" she asked.
Draco reached up and wiped the soot off her cheek-he noticed how smooth her skin was. He showed her the soot on his fingers.
"Thanks." She repeated.
"Well, what did Dumbledore say?"
"He thinks it's a brilliant idea. You know what he's like-any excuse for a party and if he can get away with two then it's even better." She smiled, sitting down again. Draco returned to his seat.
"Ok, so we need a theme and entertainment." He said.
"I can't think of a theme but what about having the Weir Sisters play?"
"Um.we could but the only problem there is they haven't released any stuff for a while-we could do with someone who's doing stuff at the moment.what about the Silver Snakes?"
"How very Slytherin." She smirked, "Um.who are they."
"There a really cool group-most people in wizarding families will know them...no offence. I think I've got summat by them somewhere."
He got up an wandered over to his bed, picking up a small, square object he tapped it once and the music of the Silver Snakes filled the room. He returned to his seat where Hermione was nodding along:
"I like them." She said, "they sound like Stereophonics."
"Who?"
"Welsh muggle group." She explained and Draco felt none the wiser.
Think we'll be able to get them OK?" she asked.
"No problem." He said, "Dumbledore knows the bassist."
"That man's acquaintances never cease to amaze me.apparently he also knew Elvis.Gods know how." Draco smiled again.he seemed to be doing a lot of that tonight.
They chatted about Dumbledore's acquaintances a it more before Hermione suddenly yelled:
"I've got it!!" Draco jumped at the volume:
"Calm down.what have you got?"
"A theme.fancy dress." She grinned
"I am NOT dressing up as a Christmas pudding." Draco sneered.
"No, no, not just a Christmas theme.an anything fancy dress theme.that way it doesn't have to be Christmas related and people can dress up as much or as little as they want."
"I suppose that's not as bad then."
"What d'ya mean "It's not that bad"? It's a brilliant idea." She laughed.
"If you say so. I just hope everyone else agrees with you.
"They will: Everyone enjoys dressing up, now matter how old they are ."
Draco remained dubious but silent.
-----------------------------------------------
"Can I ask you something?" Hermione suddenly asked about an hour later as they were going over the fine points. Draco looked up from his plan of the Great Hall and stopped prodding the small Christmas trees he was trying to position.they stopped walking and sat still.
"Sure." He responded.
"Why d'ya still hate me, Harry and Ron? We're all on the same side now."
This took him by surprise-he hadn't been expecting that. He took a deep breath:
"Hate's a bit of a strong word. True, I did used to strongly dislike- Potter was the centre of attention: the world's saviour, Wealsey was basically just an idiot.still is really, and you were an insufferable know- it-all who got me into a world of trouble at home 'cos you got higher grade's than me.."
A hurt look appeared on Hermione's face.
"Hey." He said, "I said 'were'.you're not so bad now." He smiled, she joined him and he continued, "Anyway, like I was saying I USED to dislike you but after fifth year.when everything changed I realise maybe you weren't that bad after all. I figured I might as well give you the benefit of the doubt if we were gonna be on the same side."
"All of us?"
"Well, you're ok.we're not best friends or anything but we get on.partly 'cos we have to and partly 'cos we want to."
"I agree with you there." She said.
"But Potter and Weasley seem to loath me guts."
"I see what you mean but it's not you personally hate it's your values and what you stood for for all those years."
"My PARENT'S values.not mine."
"Fair enough.so why d'ya have to pull rank over Harry on the Quidditch pitch before? Couldn't you have just shared?"
"Hermione, you don't get it do you? I'm like the king of Slytherin-or supposed to be-you know, all pureblood rules etc. Potter and me have always hated each other and despite us being on the same side now we still don't like each other and we've got to overdo that for the other students- it's like a show to them; to watch me and Potter take digs at each other. It's complicated and it's stupid, but it's also out of our control." "I THINK I get it now.although you men and your pride.it makes me laugh."
"You're one to talk.you were sorted into Gryffindor.the house of pig- headedness and pride."
She pretended to look hurt but couldn't control the smile that crept over her lips.
"So you're the king of Slytherin and I'm a pig-headed Gryffindor.what a team. Harry was still pissed at you though."
"That figures.he's so wound up he'll pop one of these days."
"He's got a lot to deal with.being the one in the prophecy and all, only one who can defeat Voldemort etc."
"I know, but he still needs to calm down-probably pent up sexual frustration."
"Don't be mean," she giggled, "just 'cos he's not a ho like you." Now it was Draco's turn to look hurt.
"I'm not a man ho." He protested before breaking into a grin, "I just enjoy female.company."
"Hmm.whatever you say." Hermione smirked.
"Anyway, Draco continued, "we've got a lot to cope with to.it's not just wonder boy Potter who plays a part in saving the world."
"I know.but he's the one everyone knows about so he's the one to get the attention and pity."
They chatted for a couple hours more until:
"Eeek!!!" squealed Hermione looking at her watch; "It's nearly tow o'clock. I'd better go." She stood up and waving her wand, cleared away all their papers and empty glasses.
"Sure." Said Draco standing up. "Take the secret passage at the end of the corridor.it'll take you straight to the corridor with your rooms on it.that way you won't get caught."
"Good idea." She said, "Thanks."
He walked her over to the door. An awkward silence ensued:
"So." muttered Hermione.
"So." replied Draco.
"So." she repeated.
"You've had your turn." He smiled. More awkward silence.
"I guess I'll see you around."
"Yeah, I guess."
"See ya." She said, turning and opening the door.
"Yeah.um, bye." He muttered.
She slid out of the door and turned to wave as she went down the corridor. He waved back, and as he shut the door a slow grin slid across his face: they'd defiantly made that second step Dumbledore had been talking about.