Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Harry Potter's characters. Everything
belongs to J. K. Rowling. Everything unfamiliar is mine. 10/15
A/N: '' - Basically means that the character is thinking
"" - Basically means that the character is speaking
This is the continuation to "Models".
I wanted to thank everyone who reviewed. Loved everything. I was
horrible to Ginny in this story so I thought I'd at least make up for
it in my new story, "The Haunted". Check out my other stories:
"Summer Camp" (Draco-Hermione fic) and "Picture Perfect" (Sirius-
Hermione fic).
I just noticed that when you type three dots (.) it appears as one dot
only.
R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R
Title: Last Chance
Chapter 10
The wake
Draco woke up with his head and body searing with pain. He tried to move his hand, but it only caused more pain. For a while he remained still until the pain subsided. Within minutes he drifted back to sleep.
~~~~~~~~~~
Time passed and Draco felt cool lips touch his forehead. His eyes flew open to look at the person responsible. His eyes needed time to focus and make out a face from the blur he was seeing. He opened his mouth to try to speak, but even that gesture was already painful.
The person saw him wince in pain and couldn't help but feel teary-eyed. "Don't talk. You need your strength."
Draco saw pity in her eyes, Hermione's eyes. He wanted to act brave for her sake. He opened his mouth and welcomed the pain. "Hermione?"
"Hush! You're still too weak." Hermione tried to smile.
"Don't worry. I'm feeling better now." Draco managed to say the words, pausing after every word.
"Still, you haven't fully recovered yet." Hermione insisted. She could almost feel his pain and was unable to stop the tears.
"How long have I been out?" Draco's heart ached to see her cry. He wanted to wrap his arms around her and comfort her.
"Three days. Madame Pomfrey praises your ability to heal. She expected you to be out for a good two weeks." She offered a weak smile.
"Three days huh? I'll be needing some help with my studies then." Draco implied.
"Silly, of course I'll help you. You can borrow my notes any time." This time Hermione's smile was genuine.
Draco was happy to finally see her smile. "I bet Harry and Ron wouldn't like it one bit."
"It doesn't really matter."
"I'm sorry if I won't be of any help with the thesis, though."
"Harry and Ron aren't a big help either anyway." She teased.
"Don't make me feel guilty. I promise I'll help out as soon as I can." He'd rather take in all the pain than to let Hermione leave at this point.
"I was only kidding. You shouldn't be worrying about anything. You really need your rest."
Draco noticed her troubled face, "What's wrong?"
Hermione stole a glance at her watch, "Nothing."
Then it hit him, "You're going to be late for your class."
"I don't mind." She fibbed.
"Really? I thought you were going to help me with my lessons. How may I ask can you do that if you miss your classes?"
"I'm quite sure I'll have decent notes." She was a bit confident on that thought.
"I can't picture Weasley and Potter getting decent notes. I always thought they copied from yours."
"Let's just say they owe me. Correct me if I'm wrong, but it seems like you want me gone."
"No! Of course not." Although there was a small part of him that approved of her leaving. He was in pain, remember that.
Hermione smiled, pleased at his answer. "Just tell me to stay and I'll stay."
"Why are you so nice to me when. . . " Draco was embarrassed to go on.
"When you don't deserve it?" Hermione continued for him.
"I'm sorry I left you last Saturday." Draco was quite sincere.
"I think I understand that now."
"You do?" He asked. 'She couldn't possibly know what happened that day.'
"I was talking about the other thing."
Draco released a breath he didn't realize he was holding. "What other thing?"
"Do you know why I'm confident that Harry and Ron will produce decent notes?"
"Because they lied to you about the Hogsmeade trip?" Draco's heart started to beat fast again.
"You know Harry and Ron are not the only ones who owe me. Let's take Dale for example."
Draco's mind started bracing for alibis.
Draco's condition has made him transparent. He cannot hide his feelings or emotions anymore. This left Hermione amused. She could see the prince of cool fumbling for the right words.
"Why are you smiling?" He wanted to frown, but couldn't. Every move he made tortured him with excruciating pain.
"You should see yourself." She gave him a wide grin.
"Funny!"
"Exactly what I thought." She teased. "Seriously though, I want to know. Why did you do it?"
"How'd you find out?" He wasn't sure how she'd react. He didn't want her to hate him and leave him. She was a very important person in his life.
"Ginny was more than happy to tell me."
"She still got the hots for Potter then?"
"Hey don't you try changing topics now. Why did you do it?"
Draco captured her eyes. "I just wanted to spend time with you."
"What do you mean? I have been spending time with you."
"Me, Potter and Weasley." He pointed out.
"We are working on one thesis." She tried to explain.
"Well I wanted to spend time with you just like in Krum's mansion."
"Yeah. I know what you mean." She wanted to ask him about that little incident when he took care of her, but decided against it. She was supposed to be angry with him. "You know, you could've lost and I could've gone with Dale all alone."
"His flying stance wasn't that of an experienced seeker. I know cause I've been training for quite a long time now."
"Still! You bet on me like I'm a stupid trophy. That's not good for ego you know."
"Call me selfish, but I really wanted to be with you. I didn't want to share you, especially with an obsessed freak."
"Dale? What makes you say that?"
"You haven't noticed his stares at you?"
"His what?" Hermione felt her cheeks grow hot.
"I'd say you're the reason why he transferred here for his last year. Besides, it was his plan to gamble on you. From what I heard he challenged Weasley first and then Potter. Funny thing though, Potter actually rooted for me as opposed to Dale."
"Really?" Hermione was deeply surprised. Harry is her ex and Draco was vocal about his interest on her. Then there was also the Quidditch rivalry thing going on between them.
"Yes, on all accounts."
Hermione smiled, "That's an improvement. You two CAN get along."
"Not so fast. I still don't like him."
Hermione smiled and sat on his bed. "As long as you both are not killing each other, I'm good." She paused then realized her error. "Same goes with Ron."
"Deal."
"What was the deal between you two anyway?"
"I get to spend time with you and he leaves you alone for a full week after the Hogsmeade weekend and vice versa."
"That's pretty selfish." She teased.
Draco tried to conceal a blush, but failed ridiculously. "Haven't you wondered how she-Weasley found out about the bet?" He changed the topic eagerly.
"She must have overheard it in the common room." She deduced.
"Who in their right mind would talk about it in an open area, especially if they lost the bet. I mean if she just overheard it, then you should too."
Hermione sighed, "You're right. That means Harry and Ron are clear. It's not looking good for you though."
"Right. As if I even converse with the little runt. And honestly, you don't make a nice topic with my housemates either." He winked at her.
"I'm sure Harry and Ron wouldn't speak of it especially since Dale beat them on their best bet."
"How did Dale find out that Weasley was good at wizard's chess, or Potter with Defense Against the Dark Arts? I mean it looked like he wanted to defeat them on their best acts. He led them to believe he was no good at them and your two friends got it in their heads that he was easy prey."
"Anybody in Gryffindor knows Ron is good at wizard's chess and Harry with Defense Against the Dark Arts. Besides, Harry is best at Quidditch."
That hurt him although he knew it wasn't meant that way. "Maybe he knew he had no chance. . . maybe somebody talked to him about this." He paused as his mind roamed for answers. "What about a grudge then?"
"Doubt it. They're both considered as heroes, especially at our house."
"I beg to disagree."
"Everybody's entitled to their opinion." She said before he could add some more.
"Why don't we look at this through a sly mind."
"Namely yours?" She teased.
Draco shrugged. "Ok, Dale wanted to be alone with you. This led to Weasley and Potter's backing out. But then they ended up coming to the Three Broomsticks with Weasley girl and the others."
"Hey! That was the time Ginny told me about the bet!" Hermione felt outraged.
"Uh oh! I'm thinking that Dale and Weasley girl are on some kind of conspiracy. While Dale pursues you-"
"Ginny pursues Harry!" Hermione finished for him. "This is horrible."
"I don't know, it sort of works for me. It eliminates one of my rivals." Draco teased to lighten the mood.
"Stop kidding around! This is a serious problem."
"Just steer away from Dale and you'll be fine."
Hermione sighed. "I suppose, but like you said, he can be real obsessive."
"Maybe if you have a boyfriend he might back-off." Draco suggested.
"Don't start. You still owe me."
"Tell me what can I do then?"
"Just answer my questions truthfully."
"Then you'll agree to be my-"
"Then I'll consider having you as a friend again." She cut him almost immediately.
'Don't waste your chance now Malfoy.' He braced himself before saying, "Shoot."
"Back at Hogsmeade, was your father responsible for your condition now?"
'Blast!' Draco decided to lie, "I was just caught in a duel between two wizards."
"You know you're a lousy liar." She wanted so much to say that to him.
Draco raised an eyebrow a little. He was impeccable at lying. That, he knew.
"I told you to tell me the truth." Hermione watched his expression, which gave away his discomfort at lying.
"There's nothing to say."
"The cloaked man at the bookstore. He was a spy for your father right?"
Draco remained silent.
"I'll take that as a yes. You left me because you had to meet your father right?"
Again Draco remained quiet.
"Your father did this to you because of me right?" This time Hermione's eyes started to grow misty.
"Let's not go there." Draco tried to change topics.
"You're lying here because of me." A few teardrops fell from her eyes.
Draco ached to brush them off her face but he couldn't even lift a finger. "It's not your fault."
"You're just trying to comfort me." She sniffed.
"It really was not your fault. It was mine. I was too weak-"
Hermione shook her head and attempted to hug him, but withdrew when she felt his body stiffen. "You're not weak. You're actually quite incredible. You woke up in just three days, way beyond everybody's expectations."
"Right, but look at what happened to me."
"This is all my fault. If we didn't talk back then at the lake maybe you wouldn't have suffered." She sobbed once again.
"I'm not regretting the best day of my life. If we didn't talk then I might be dead by now. You saved me that day Hermione and not just physically." He held her gaze and found herself cursing for not being able to touch her. He wanted to comfort her. He wanted to hold her in his arms but all he could do now was gaze at her and use words instead of actions.
Hermione felt real guilty about everything that happened. She wanted to take away the pain he's feeling. First his soul was attacked when his mum died and now his physical state was also damaged. She couldn't even touch him. She was afraid to inflict any more pain. All she could do was gaze back at him. This is where their souls touched each other. She felt connected with him. She also felt a new emotion towards him that she couldn't recognize. All she knew was it was not pity. There was something in his eyes that made her draw closer. She was now leaning down at him without breaking their eye contact. A strand of blond hair carelessly rested on his forehead, blocking a portion of his left eye. She found an urge to push it away but restrained herself. Just then a small smile crept to Draco's face. It was a sign that she waited for. She gently placed her thumb on top of the strand to slowly push it away. This only revealed his intense gaze. Her finger didn't stop after pushing the strand away. Her thumb carefully outlined his face and slowly stopped on his soft lips.
Hermione had initiated and it was Draco's turn to make his move. He parted his lips to slowly kiss her finger. Hermione was shocked at this and almost pulled her hands off of him but then he kissed it again. Hermione closed her eyes and relaxed to the feel of his lips on her skin. When she opened them she saw his relentless tribute to her and felt embarrassed. She abruptly pulled her hand from him. Draco's eyes fluttered open full of question. Hermione answered him with a smile. She loved Draco's lips on her skin. Common sense left her and her brain started screaming. 'Bloody kiss him!' She trusted her mind most of the time and so she gave in to the screaming in her head. She leaned closer and captured his mouth.
Draco enjoyed it fully. He enjoyed the kiss, and the fact that she was the one who initiated it overwhelmed him. He cursed himself again for not being able to touch her. Then again he felt her tongue asking permission for entry. She didn't have to wait. The slightest touch opened his mouth immediately. Her tongue was met by his eager one. Both couldn't get enough from each other. As much as he wanted to deepen the kiss he couldn't. Hermione's the only one who was capable at the moment.
And Hermione did just that. She pulled his head forward. She was drugged by the sensation she was feeling from the kiss that she forgot to be gentle. Draco winced and withdrew his tongue abruptly. Hermione stiffened at realizing she hurt him. She slightly moved away.
Draco cursed silently. He didn't want to end the kiss and if it wasn't for the searing pain in his head he wouldn't have. "Hermione, I'm sorry."
Hermione smiled. Rejection was far from her mind. What caught her attention was the fact that Draco's condition was her fault. The mere holding of his head brought him so much pain. She felt him wince for crying out loud! She could only imagine how painful it was for him to move any part of his body meaning talking is also a hard ordeal. Draco never showed any sign of pain before which only suggest that this was the kind of pain that nobody can hide.
Draco was still hopeful the she'd continue the kiss because he'd do it if he was feeling alright. "Hermione?"
Hermione noticed his worried expression and smiled again. "Close your eyes, you have something on it."
"I don't want to close my eyes."
"Don't be stubborn-"
"I'm afraid that you'll disappear when I open them again."
"Would you rather go blind then?"
Draco obeyed her instruction rather reluctantly. "Hermione about the kiss- "
"Draco, I've stayed here long enough. I just realized that my next class is Arithmancy. I can't depend on Harry or Ron for notes there. They're not taking it." She took away the dirt near his left eye.
"Can we talk later then?" His heart ached. 'Was she bloody offended?'
'Remember you inflicted this pain, this torture on him.' She heard her mind say. "I really have to go now." She stood up and gathered her things and marched out of the room.
'Why do I have a feeling she won't be coming back?' He closed his eyes to try to calm his nerves. 'I swear as soon as I get better we're having that talk whether she likes it or not.'
~~~~~~~~~~
Harry and Ron have wondered where Hermione could be. It was not like her to miss a class let alone McGonagall's class. Harry was concerned.
Don't worry mate, she'll come by. She never misses class." Ron didn't see any cause to fret.
"I suppose." Harry sighed and slumped on his usual seat where he was supposed to be seated next to Hermione. His face brightened when he felt somebody taking the seat next to his. "Where've you been? You were almost late." Harry stopped short when it wasn't Hermione who sat down instead it was Parvati.
"Hi Harry!" She greeted.
"Hey Parvati." He greeted back.
"It seems like Hermione's not here."
"Yeah I noticed." He answered rather annoyed.
"Don't you think she'll freak when she realize that she missed McGonagall's class."
"Huh?"
Parvati pointed at Dale who was absorbed in listening to McGonagall's lectures and eagerly writing down notes.
Harry didn't quite understand.
"Notes Harry Potter. If I can remember clearly you're still on her bad side. You can make up for it if you took down decent notes."
Harry's eyes widen at realization. "Thanks but why are you helping me? Aren't you hanging with Ginny?"
"I'm doing this for Ginny's sake. I think it'll be good for her if you and Hermione got back together. She's changed a lot. Personally I kind of miss the sweet Ginny."
"You're right."
"Now what are you doing wasting time? Do you want Dale to be the one to hand her decent notes?"
"I've already missed McGonagall's introductions."
"Lavender can help you on that." They both glanced at her and saw her wink at them.
"Thanks." He was grateful for the two. They were really good friends.
For the first time Harry actually listened through the whole lecture. He took down notes that could even match Hermione's. He had an advantage over Dale. He knew what is it that Hermione puts in her notebook. He knew her format and outlines as well. His notes were organized although a little bit sloppy. He was proud of it. Ron had watched him throughout the class and was undoubtedly impressed himself. He decided to take down notes as well just in case.
After the class Harry and Ron tried to compare notes. Ron was amazed at Harry's work. "Unbelievable! It's as if I'm looking at Herm's note."
"Should I be insulted?" Harry teased.
"On the contrary, you'll win against that Krum." Ron pointed at Dale.
"I'm not so sure. He had a good head start."
"Don't worry mate. Herm still hates that guy. You've got the upper hand."
Harry smiled at this. "Where could she possibly be?"
"Who're you looking for?" Hermione didn't notice that her feet brought her to her best friends after leaving the hospital wing. After the talk with Draco she walked aimlessly within the halls all the while blaming herself for what happened to him.
"Herm! Where've you been? You know McGonagall's not thrilled with people who cuts class especially hers." Ron reprimanded her.
"Don't tell me you haven't done this before Ron." She teased.
"Well I'm different. I'm not Head Girl!"
"We can all see that." Harry teased before fixing his gaze back at her. "So where've you been?"
"Promise you guys won't blow your heads off."
"Malfoy then." Ron concluded.
Hermione blushed with embarrassment. "I just wanted to see how he's doing. They say he's a miracle you know. They said he was lucky for surviving those unforgivable curses and recover in just three days."
"Lucky Malfoy!" Harry commented sarcastically.
Hermione ignored him. "So anybody going to tell me what happened in McGonagall's class?"
"Hermione!" Someone from behind them called.
The Gryffindor trio recognized the voice very well and turned, "Dale."
Dale ignored the two wizards glaring at him. "I noticed you didn't make it to class."
"Why are you here?" Hermione arched an eyebrow.
"I just thought you might need notes."
"Shouldn't you be staying away from me this week?" Hermione was throwing icy glares at him.
"What do you mean?" Dale paled. He still didn't know that Hermione knew of the bet.
"Draco won. You must comply with his terms." Both Harry and Ron smirked at him at Hermione's words.
Dale paled and felt a bit faint. "How did you-?"
"Go ask Ginny." She flipped her head and turned back to her friends.
Dale's pale face turned to that of fury and stomped away.
Hermione finally faced her friends. "Will I regret turning down Dale's notes?"
"Nope! Harry amazingly listened through the entire class. Even McGonagall was shocked at his diligence." Ron teased.
Harry blushed and began fumbling through his bag.
"Only Harry? You must be pretty confident with our friendship that you didn't even bother to get decent notes." Hermione teased the redhead.
"You know I have a messy handwriting. It wouldn't do any good for you. I'll make it up in other things." Ron gave her a wink.
Harry finally handed her his notes.
Hermione flipped through the first few pages, "Wow, Mr. Potter! I must say I am impressed." She gave him a peck on his cheek. "Thanks. See, you can be like me if you wanted too."
"Was that supposed to be a compliment?" Ron received a jab on the ribs from the head girl.
~~~~~~~~~~
Dale slammed the portrait through the Gryffindor common room. His face was burning with rage. "Ginny!" He shouted with fury. There were first years that backed away. The gossip mill however inconspicuously moved closer.
Lavender and Parvati realized that Ginny was in for some oral beating. They rushed up the stairs to try to warn their friend but it was too late. Ginny was already going down to meet Dale. "What the bloody hell do you want?"
"Oh nothing important. I was just wondering why the bloody hell did you tell Hermione about the fucking bet?" He shouted every word at her.
"And what is wrong?" Ginny didn't seem to mind his tone; in fact, she was trying to match it.
"What's wrong? You're asking what the hell's wrong?" Dale was already too red with fury.
"I brought each and every one of you to equal footing. I mean look at Malfoy for instance. He was in the lead, but then the bet thing, plus the bailing he added, lost him the advantage. If you play it right you can easily overrun Harry and Malfoy."
"That would've been a good plan. But the thing is they all blamed me! Therefore Harry, Ron and Draco got her against me! Is that what you want? I bloody hell don't want that!"
"How can you be so sure? I haven't seen her join Harry or Ron during meals."
"Maybe because she was spending it with Malfoy instead! She bloody asked me why I didn't follow that bastard Malofy's terms!"
"Hey you can't blame me for your mistakes. Malfoy was your fault. I told you to wait for my plan but did you listen?"
"So you're blaming all this for my one mistake?"
"I don't even remember why I agreed to join forces with you. I should've just let Malfoy do his thing. Anyway you look at it, Hermione seems to prefer him."
"Is that so witch? Do you think Malfoy can steal her from the great Harry Potter? Ha! Let's see what you'll do when Harry starts to date her again."
"Well you're not bloody helping the situation! Maybe if you'd change your style she'd finally notice you!"
"Yeah like that's going to help. She bloody hates me! Besides she listens to her friends! Friends who hate me as well! Wait! You were friends before, maybe you can help me out?"
"It depends. What do you have in mind?"
"Nothing much. You could tutor me into something she'll like."
"And that would help me because?"
"Hermione would be too busy with me to even recognize with her friends. Harry may get lonely."
"Look, I want you to understand I don't care if she chooses you or Malfoy as long as it's not Harry. If I can I will help, even Malfoy as well. Reality wise, Malfoy has a bigger chance."
"The question here is will he accept your help? I had the impression that he hated your guts."
"Not if I help him out indiscreetly."
"So are you saying I can't trust you?"
"I'm saying I'm prepared to do everything to get what I want." With that Ginny turned around and left him all alone.
'Cunning, conniving, sly and a very determined witch, I like her. Pity Hermione's better. If it wasn't for Hermione I might go after her.' Foolish thoughts invaded his mind. He then passed intimidating glares to the people around him, threatening at the same time.
~~~~~~~~~~
A/N: Here I am apologizing once more for being so darn late. I'm
really sorry but I'm not feeling romantic these past few days and as
usual I have a lot on my hands right now.
One more thing, this is the sequel to my first fanfic and I love
that story that's why this is the one I prioritize among the rest.
Even if it only gets a few reviews I'll never stop updating this story
unless of course I end it. . .
So please be kind review even if you just tell me you spent some
of your time reading this story. That'll be enough for me.
Plus a big thanks to my beta, Toni!
A/N: '' - Basically means that the character is thinking
"" - Basically means that the character is speaking
This is the continuation to "Models".
I wanted to thank everyone who reviewed. Loved everything. I was
horrible to Ginny in this story so I thought I'd at least make up for
it in my new story, "The Haunted". Check out my other stories:
"Summer Camp" (Draco-Hermione fic) and "Picture Perfect" (Sirius-
Hermione fic).
I just noticed that when you type three dots (.) it appears as one dot
only.
R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R
Title: Last Chance
Chapter 10
The wake
Draco woke up with his head and body searing with pain. He tried to move his hand, but it only caused more pain. For a while he remained still until the pain subsided. Within minutes he drifted back to sleep.
~~~~~~~~~~
Time passed and Draco felt cool lips touch his forehead. His eyes flew open to look at the person responsible. His eyes needed time to focus and make out a face from the blur he was seeing. He opened his mouth to try to speak, but even that gesture was already painful.
The person saw him wince in pain and couldn't help but feel teary-eyed. "Don't talk. You need your strength."
Draco saw pity in her eyes, Hermione's eyes. He wanted to act brave for her sake. He opened his mouth and welcomed the pain. "Hermione?"
"Hush! You're still too weak." Hermione tried to smile.
"Don't worry. I'm feeling better now." Draco managed to say the words, pausing after every word.
"Still, you haven't fully recovered yet." Hermione insisted. She could almost feel his pain and was unable to stop the tears.
"How long have I been out?" Draco's heart ached to see her cry. He wanted to wrap his arms around her and comfort her.
"Three days. Madame Pomfrey praises your ability to heal. She expected you to be out for a good two weeks." She offered a weak smile.
"Three days huh? I'll be needing some help with my studies then." Draco implied.
"Silly, of course I'll help you. You can borrow my notes any time." This time Hermione's smile was genuine.
Draco was happy to finally see her smile. "I bet Harry and Ron wouldn't like it one bit."
"It doesn't really matter."
"I'm sorry if I won't be of any help with the thesis, though."
"Harry and Ron aren't a big help either anyway." She teased.
"Don't make me feel guilty. I promise I'll help out as soon as I can." He'd rather take in all the pain than to let Hermione leave at this point.
"I was only kidding. You shouldn't be worrying about anything. You really need your rest."
Draco noticed her troubled face, "What's wrong?"
Hermione stole a glance at her watch, "Nothing."
Then it hit him, "You're going to be late for your class."
"I don't mind." She fibbed.
"Really? I thought you were going to help me with my lessons. How may I ask can you do that if you miss your classes?"
"I'm quite sure I'll have decent notes." She was a bit confident on that thought.
"I can't picture Weasley and Potter getting decent notes. I always thought they copied from yours."
"Let's just say they owe me. Correct me if I'm wrong, but it seems like you want me gone."
"No! Of course not." Although there was a small part of him that approved of her leaving. He was in pain, remember that.
Hermione smiled, pleased at his answer. "Just tell me to stay and I'll stay."
"Why are you so nice to me when. . . " Draco was embarrassed to go on.
"When you don't deserve it?" Hermione continued for him.
"I'm sorry I left you last Saturday." Draco was quite sincere.
"I think I understand that now."
"You do?" He asked. 'She couldn't possibly know what happened that day.'
"I was talking about the other thing."
Draco released a breath he didn't realize he was holding. "What other thing?"
"Do you know why I'm confident that Harry and Ron will produce decent notes?"
"Because they lied to you about the Hogsmeade trip?" Draco's heart started to beat fast again.
"You know Harry and Ron are not the only ones who owe me. Let's take Dale for example."
Draco's mind started bracing for alibis.
Draco's condition has made him transparent. He cannot hide his feelings or emotions anymore. This left Hermione amused. She could see the prince of cool fumbling for the right words.
"Why are you smiling?" He wanted to frown, but couldn't. Every move he made tortured him with excruciating pain.
"You should see yourself." She gave him a wide grin.
"Funny!"
"Exactly what I thought." She teased. "Seriously though, I want to know. Why did you do it?"
"How'd you find out?" He wasn't sure how she'd react. He didn't want her to hate him and leave him. She was a very important person in his life.
"Ginny was more than happy to tell me."
"She still got the hots for Potter then?"
"Hey don't you try changing topics now. Why did you do it?"
Draco captured her eyes. "I just wanted to spend time with you."
"What do you mean? I have been spending time with you."
"Me, Potter and Weasley." He pointed out.
"We are working on one thesis." She tried to explain.
"Well I wanted to spend time with you just like in Krum's mansion."
"Yeah. I know what you mean." She wanted to ask him about that little incident when he took care of her, but decided against it. She was supposed to be angry with him. "You know, you could've lost and I could've gone with Dale all alone."
"His flying stance wasn't that of an experienced seeker. I know cause I've been training for quite a long time now."
"Still! You bet on me like I'm a stupid trophy. That's not good for ego you know."
"Call me selfish, but I really wanted to be with you. I didn't want to share you, especially with an obsessed freak."
"Dale? What makes you say that?"
"You haven't noticed his stares at you?"
"His what?" Hermione felt her cheeks grow hot.
"I'd say you're the reason why he transferred here for his last year. Besides, it was his plan to gamble on you. From what I heard he challenged Weasley first and then Potter. Funny thing though, Potter actually rooted for me as opposed to Dale."
"Really?" Hermione was deeply surprised. Harry is her ex and Draco was vocal about his interest on her. Then there was also the Quidditch rivalry thing going on between them.
"Yes, on all accounts."
Hermione smiled, "That's an improvement. You two CAN get along."
"Not so fast. I still don't like him."
Hermione smiled and sat on his bed. "As long as you both are not killing each other, I'm good." She paused then realized her error. "Same goes with Ron."
"Deal."
"What was the deal between you two anyway?"
"I get to spend time with you and he leaves you alone for a full week after the Hogsmeade weekend and vice versa."
"That's pretty selfish." She teased.
Draco tried to conceal a blush, but failed ridiculously. "Haven't you wondered how she-Weasley found out about the bet?" He changed the topic eagerly.
"She must have overheard it in the common room." She deduced.
"Who in their right mind would talk about it in an open area, especially if they lost the bet. I mean if she just overheard it, then you should too."
Hermione sighed, "You're right. That means Harry and Ron are clear. It's not looking good for you though."
"Right. As if I even converse with the little runt. And honestly, you don't make a nice topic with my housemates either." He winked at her.
"I'm sure Harry and Ron wouldn't speak of it especially since Dale beat them on their best bet."
"How did Dale find out that Weasley was good at wizard's chess, or Potter with Defense Against the Dark Arts? I mean it looked like he wanted to defeat them on their best acts. He led them to believe he was no good at them and your two friends got it in their heads that he was easy prey."
"Anybody in Gryffindor knows Ron is good at wizard's chess and Harry with Defense Against the Dark Arts. Besides, Harry is best at Quidditch."
That hurt him although he knew it wasn't meant that way. "Maybe he knew he had no chance. . . maybe somebody talked to him about this." He paused as his mind roamed for answers. "What about a grudge then?"
"Doubt it. They're both considered as heroes, especially at our house."
"I beg to disagree."
"Everybody's entitled to their opinion." She said before he could add some more.
"Why don't we look at this through a sly mind."
"Namely yours?" She teased.
Draco shrugged. "Ok, Dale wanted to be alone with you. This led to Weasley and Potter's backing out. But then they ended up coming to the Three Broomsticks with Weasley girl and the others."
"Hey! That was the time Ginny told me about the bet!" Hermione felt outraged.
"Uh oh! I'm thinking that Dale and Weasley girl are on some kind of conspiracy. While Dale pursues you-"
"Ginny pursues Harry!" Hermione finished for him. "This is horrible."
"I don't know, it sort of works for me. It eliminates one of my rivals." Draco teased to lighten the mood.
"Stop kidding around! This is a serious problem."
"Just steer away from Dale and you'll be fine."
Hermione sighed. "I suppose, but like you said, he can be real obsessive."
"Maybe if you have a boyfriend he might back-off." Draco suggested.
"Don't start. You still owe me."
"Tell me what can I do then?"
"Just answer my questions truthfully."
"Then you'll agree to be my-"
"Then I'll consider having you as a friend again." She cut him almost immediately.
'Don't waste your chance now Malfoy.' He braced himself before saying, "Shoot."
"Back at Hogsmeade, was your father responsible for your condition now?"
'Blast!' Draco decided to lie, "I was just caught in a duel between two wizards."
"You know you're a lousy liar." She wanted so much to say that to him.
Draco raised an eyebrow a little. He was impeccable at lying. That, he knew.
"I told you to tell me the truth." Hermione watched his expression, which gave away his discomfort at lying.
"There's nothing to say."
"The cloaked man at the bookstore. He was a spy for your father right?"
Draco remained silent.
"I'll take that as a yes. You left me because you had to meet your father right?"
Again Draco remained quiet.
"Your father did this to you because of me right?" This time Hermione's eyes started to grow misty.
"Let's not go there." Draco tried to change topics.
"You're lying here because of me." A few teardrops fell from her eyes.
Draco ached to brush them off her face but he couldn't even lift a finger. "It's not your fault."
"You're just trying to comfort me." She sniffed.
"It really was not your fault. It was mine. I was too weak-"
Hermione shook her head and attempted to hug him, but withdrew when she felt his body stiffen. "You're not weak. You're actually quite incredible. You woke up in just three days, way beyond everybody's expectations."
"Right, but look at what happened to me."
"This is all my fault. If we didn't talk back then at the lake maybe you wouldn't have suffered." She sobbed once again.
"I'm not regretting the best day of my life. If we didn't talk then I might be dead by now. You saved me that day Hermione and not just physically." He held her gaze and found herself cursing for not being able to touch her. He wanted to comfort her. He wanted to hold her in his arms but all he could do now was gaze at her and use words instead of actions.
Hermione felt real guilty about everything that happened. She wanted to take away the pain he's feeling. First his soul was attacked when his mum died and now his physical state was also damaged. She couldn't even touch him. She was afraid to inflict any more pain. All she could do was gaze back at him. This is where their souls touched each other. She felt connected with him. She also felt a new emotion towards him that she couldn't recognize. All she knew was it was not pity. There was something in his eyes that made her draw closer. She was now leaning down at him without breaking their eye contact. A strand of blond hair carelessly rested on his forehead, blocking a portion of his left eye. She found an urge to push it away but restrained herself. Just then a small smile crept to Draco's face. It was a sign that she waited for. She gently placed her thumb on top of the strand to slowly push it away. This only revealed his intense gaze. Her finger didn't stop after pushing the strand away. Her thumb carefully outlined his face and slowly stopped on his soft lips.
Hermione had initiated and it was Draco's turn to make his move. He parted his lips to slowly kiss her finger. Hermione was shocked at this and almost pulled her hands off of him but then he kissed it again. Hermione closed her eyes and relaxed to the feel of his lips on her skin. When she opened them she saw his relentless tribute to her and felt embarrassed. She abruptly pulled her hand from him. Draco's eyes fluttered open full of question. Hermione answered him with a smile. She loved Draco's lips on her skin. Common sense left her and her brain started screaming. 'Bloody kiss him!' She trusted her mind most of the time and so she gave in to the screaming in her head. She leaned closer and captured his mouth.
Draco enjoyed it fully. He enjoyed the kiss, and the fact that she was the one who initiated it overwhelmed him. He cursed himself again for not being able to touch her. Then again he felt her tongue asking permission for entry. She didn't have to wait. The slightest touch opened his mouth immediately. Her tongue was met by his eager one. Both couldn't get enough from each other. As much as he wanted to deepen the kiss he couldn't. Hermione's the only one who was capable at the moment.
And Hermione did just that. She pulled his head forward. She was drugged by the sensation she was feeling from the kiss that she forgot to be gentle. Draco winced and withdrew his tongue abruptly. Hermione stiffened at realizing she hurt him. She slightly moved away.
Draco cursed silently. He didn't want to end the kiss and if it wasn't for the searing pain in his head he wouldn't have. "Hermione, I'm sorry."
Hermione smiled. Rejection was far from her mind. What caught her attention was the fact that Draco's condition was her fault. The mere holding of his head brought him so much pain. She felt him wince for crying out loud! She could only imagine how painful it was for him to move any part of his body meaning talking is also a hard ordeal. Draco never showed any sign of pain before which only suggest that this was the kind of pain that nobody can hide.
Draco was still hopeful the she'd continue the kiss because he'd do it if he was feeling alright. "Hermione?"
Hermione noticed his worried expression and smiled again. "Close your eyes, you have something on it."
"I don't want to close my eyes."
"Don't be stubborn-"
"I'm afraid that you'll disappear when I open them again."
"Would you rather go blind then?"
Draco obeyed her instruction rather reluctantly. "Hermione about the kiss- "
"Draco, I've stayed here long enough. I just realized that my next class is Arithmancy. I can't depend on Harry or Ron for notes there. They're not taking it." She took away the dirt near his left eye.
"Can we talk later then?" His heart ached. 'Was she bloody offended?'
'Remember you inflicted this pain, this torture on him.' She heard her mind say. "I really have to go now." She stood up and gathered her things and marched out of the room.
'Why do I have a feeling she won't be coming back?' He closed his eyes to try to calm his nerves. 'I swear as soon as I get better we're having that talk whether she likes it or not.'
~~~~~~~~~~
Harry and Ron have wondered where Hermione could be. It was not like her to miss a class let alone McGonagall's class. Harry was concerned.
Don't worry mate, she'll come by. She never misses class." Ron didn't see any cause to fret.
"I suppose." Harry sighed and slumped on his usual seat where he was supposed to be seated next to Hermione. His face brightened when he felt somebody taking the seat next to his. "Where've you been? You were almost late." Harry stopped short when it wasn't Hermione who sat down instead it was Parvati.
"Hi Harry!" She greeted.
"Hey Parvati." He greeted back.
"It seems like Hermione's not here."
"Yeah I noticed." He answered rather annoyed.
"Don't you think she'll freak when she realize that she missed McGonagall's class."
"Huh?"
Parvati pointed at Dale who was absorbed in listening to McGonagall's lectures and eagerly writing down notes.
Harry didn't quite understand.
"Notes Harry Potter. If I can remember clearly you're still on her bad side. You can make up for it if you took down decent notes."
Harry's eyes widen at realization. "Thanks but why are you helping me? Aren't you hanging with Ginny?"
"I'm doing this for Ginny's sake. I think it'll be good for her if you and Hermione got back together. She's changed a lot. Personally I kind of miss the sweet Ginny."
"You're right."
"Now what are you doing wasting time? Do you want Dale to be the one to hand her decent notes?"
"I've already missed McGonagall's introductions."
"Lavender can help you on that." They both glanced at her and saw her wink at them.
"Thanks." He was grateful for the two. They were really good friends.
For the first time Harry actually listened through the whole lecture. He took down notes that could even match Hermione's. He had an advantage over Dale. He knew what is it that Hermione puts in her notebook. He knew her format and outlines as well. His notes were organized although a little bit sloppy. He was proud of it. Ron had watched him throughout the class and was undoubtedly impressed himself. He decided to take down notes as well just in case.
After the class Harry and Ron tried to compare notes. Ron was amazed at Harry's work. "Unbelievable! It's as if I'm looking at Herm's note."
"Should I be insulted?" Harry teased.
"On the contrary, you'll win against that Krum." Ron pointed at Dale.
"I'm not so sure. He had a good head start."
"Don't worry mate. Herm still hates that guy. You've got the upper hand."
Harry smiled at this. "Where could she possibly be?"
"Who're you looking for?" Hermione didn't notice that her feet brought her to her best friends after leaving the hospital wing. After the talk with Draco she walked aimlessly within the halls all the while blaming herself for what happened to him.
"Herm! Where've you been? You know McGonagall's not thrilled with people who cuts class especially hers." Ron reprimanded her.
"Don't tell me you haven't done this before Ron." She teased.
"Well I'm different. I'm not Head Girl!"
"We can all see that." Harry teased before fixing his gaze back at her. "So where've you been?"
"Promise you guys won't blow your heads off."
"Malfoy then." Ron concluded.
Hermione blushed with embarrassment. "I just wanted to see how he's doing. They say he's a miracle you know. They said he was lucky for surviving those unforgivable curses and recover in just three days."
"Lucky Malfoy!" Harry commented sarcastically.
Hermione ignored him. "So anybody going to tell me what happened in McGonagall's class?"
"Hermione!" Someone from behind them called.
The Gryffindor trio recognized the voice very well and turned, "Dale."
Dale ignored the two wizards glaring at him. "I noticed you didn't make it to class."
"Why are you here?" Hermione arched an eyebrow.
"I just thought you might need notes."
"Shouldn't you be staying away from me this week?" Hermione was throwing icy glares at him.
"What do you mean?" Dale paled. He still didn't know that Hermione knew of the bet.
"Draco won. You must comply with his terms." Both Harry and Ron smirked at him at Hermione's words.
Dale paled and felt a bit faint. "How did you-?"
"Go ask Ginny." She flipped her head and turned back to her friends.
Dale's pale face turned to that of fury and stomped away.
Hermione finally faced her friends. "Will I regret turning down Dale's notes?"
"Nope! Harry amazingly listened through the entire class. Even McGonagall was shocked at his diligence." Ron teased.
Harry blushed and began fumbling through his bag.
"Only Harry? You must be pretty confident with our friendship that you didn't even bother to get decent notes." Hermione teased the redhead.
"You know I have a messy handwriting. It wouldn't do any good for you. I'll make it up in other things." Ron gave her a wink.
Harry finally handed her his notes.
Hermione flipped through the first few pages, "Wow, Mr. Potter! I must say I am impressed." She gave him a peck on his cheek. "Thanks. See, you can be like me if you wanted too."
"Was that supposed to be a compliment?" Ron received a jab on the ribs from the head girl.
~~~~~~~~~~
Dale slammed the portrait through the Gryffindor common room. His face was burning with rage. "Ginny!" He shouted with fury. There were first years that backed away. The gossip mill however inconspicuously moved closer.
Lavender and Parvati realized that Ginny was in for some oral beating. They rushed up the stairs to try to warn their friend but it was too late. Ginny was already going down to meet Dale. "What the bloody hell do you want?"
"Oh nothing important. I was just wondering why the bloody hell did you tell Hermione about the fucking bet?" He shouted every word at her.
"And what is wrong?" Ginny didn't seem to mind his tone; in fact, she was trying to match it.
"What's wrong? You're asking what the hell's wrong?" Dale was already too red with fury.
"I brought each and every one of you to equal footing. I mean look at Malfoy for instance. He was in the lead, but then the bet thing, plus the bailing he added, lost him the advantage. If you play it right you can easily overrun Harry and Malfoy."
"That would've been a good plan. But the thing is they all blamed me! Therefore Harry, Ron and Draco got her against me! Is that what you want? I bloody hell don't want that!"
"How can you be so sure? I haven't seen her join Harry or Ron during meals."
"Maybe because she was spending it with Malfoy instead! She bloody asked me why I didn't follow that bastard Malofy's terms!"
"Hey you can't blame me for your mistakes. Malfoy was your fault. I told you to wait for my plan but did you listen?"
"So you're blaming all this for my one mistake?"
"I don't even remember why I agreed to join forces with you. I should've just let Malfoy do his thing. Anyway you look at it, Hermione seems to prefer him."
"Is that so witch? Do you think Malfoy can steal her from the great Harry Potter? Ha! Let's see what you'll do when Harry starts to date her again."
"Well you're not bloody helping the situation! Maybe if you'd change your style she'd finally notice you!"
"Yeah like that's going to help. She bloody hates me! Besides she listens to her friends! Friends who hate me as well! Wait! You were friends before, maybe you can help me out?"
"It depends. What do you have in mind?"
"Nothing much. You could tutor me into something she'll like."
"And that would help me because?"
"Hermione would be too busy with me to even recognize with her friends. Harry may get lonely."
"Look, I want you to understand I don't care if she chooses you or Malfoy as long as it's not Harry. If I can I will help, even Malfoy as well. Reality wise, Malfoy has a bigger chance."
"The question here is will he accept your help? I had the impression that he hated your guts."
"Not if I help him out indiscreetly."
"So are you saying I can't trust you?"
"I'm saying I'm prepared to do everything to get what I want." With that Ginny turned around and left him all alone.
'Cunning, conniving, sly and a very determined witch, I like her. Pity Hermione's better. If it wasn't for Hermione I might go after her.' Foolish thoughts invaded his mind. He then passed intimidating glares to the people around him, threatening at the same time.
~~~~~~~~~~
A/N: Here I am apologizing once more for being so darn late. I'm
really sorry but I'm not feeling romantic these past few days and as
usual I have a lot on my hands right now.
One more thing, this is the sequel to my first fanfic and I love
that story that's why this is the one I prioritize among the rest.
Even if it only gets a few reviews I'll never stop updating this story
unless of course I end it. . .
So please be kind review even if you just tell me you spent some
of your time reading this story. That'll be enough for me.
Plus a big thanks to my beta, Toni!