Disclaimer: None of these characters are mine, I just use them for my own
sick twisted pleasure. (Not like THAT you filthy minded people! LoL)
A/N: Hey guys! I'm back and better than ever! Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration LoL, but I'll let you make that decision. Sorry I haven't updated in a while, but my parents were on vacation and I was at the beach every day learning how to surf :o), then I didn't know what to write next and it took me awhile to finish this chappie. So, anyway here it is at last, please review and hope you enjoy!
Chapter 8: Hostility, Confessions, and Peculiar Possessions
It was now two weeks from the holiday, back into the hectic class schedules for the Hogwarts students and everyone finally seemed to be going back to their normal routines. Hermione was spending much more time with Harry and Ron, and she and Draco had been, all the while, successfully ignoring each other. However, she knew the ignoring couldn't last much longer since she and Malfoy had both agreed to help Dumbledore solve his 'mystery'.
That day after classes were over and most students were enjoying their free time, Hermione cautiously approached Malfoy who was seemingly on his way to his common room. As he saw her nearing him, he told the other Slytherins who were relishing in his presence that he'd catch up to them.
"Couldn't resist staying away from me for too long, could you Granger?" he asked smugly as she hesitatingly came up to him.
"No, Malfoy, if it were up to me right now, I'd be as far from here as humanly possible, but we are supposed to be working on this task for Dumbledore, and it's about time we got started."
Draco sighed and replied "Well, yes, I suppose, as usual you have to be annoyingly all-knowing. So, um, where exactly do we start?"
"Well, the best thing would be to research in the library." She stated.
"Ah, yes the LIBRARY, of course that's ALWAYS typical bookworm Granger's perfect solution. And I bet by going to the library we can end world hunger, global warming, cure all diseases and achieve world peace too! Why didn't we get there sooner? We'd better hurry up!" he said, faking eagerness, sarcasm dripping off his tongue.
"Shut-up Malfoy. I thought it was the most logical solution, but if your genius intellect knows just what Dumbledore was telling us about, then by all means, please share this brilliant concept with me, and we'll disregard my lowly idea." She answered with just as much sarcasm as her antagonist.
"Now, I know your perfect reputation would be greatly scarred if you were ever seen talking to a 'mudblood' like me, so let's get moving." she said with disdain.
Draco slightly winced at her choice of words, but the last thing he wanted was another heated confrontation if she noticed how it perturbed him, which he was sure she would any minute. Consequently, that's how he now he found himself in a more secluded area of the library flipping through various books Hermione had deemed useful. So, that basically comprised of almost every text the enthusiastic girl had laid eyes upon.
As he scanned a few pages of 'Hogwarts: A History; Revised Edition' he let his mind trail back to the night of the Christmas Ball. Was Hermione thankful that he saved her? Did she even know it was he that did it? Why did he care so much if she did know? And why did he kiss her? But the biggest problem was why did he want to do it again, this time with her awake? This was utterly ridiculous, and he actually laughed out loud at that.
"What's so funny?" Hermione questioned as she looked up from her book she was previously so engrossed in.
"Oh, um nothing." Draco then noticed Hermione's scowling face, and assuming it was directed at him was about to make a rude comment, but then he realized her glare wasn't aimed at him, but rather, something behind him. He turned around and noticed a group of third years sitting in a circle at a nearby table, whispering and pointing at him. He flashed them his most prized flirtatious grin and they giggled and turned around. 'So, that's why Hermione was giving them a withering look.' She must have realized that he noticed, because she quickly focused back on her book, trying not to look embarrassed. She slightly jumped as he reached over and snapped it shut. Her expression abruptly changed from embarrassment to annoyance.
"What do you think you're doing Malfoy?"
"Well, if I didn't know any better, which by the way I do, I'd say that little mudblood Granger's jealous." He smirked at her, while seeing her stammer, obviously very flustered by this last comment.
"What are you talking about? What would I have to be jealous of?" she finally choked out, trying to remain cool.
"Well, that's what I'd like to know. Would you care to explain why you are so visibly showing signs of loathing towards those sweet, innocent girls? I wouldn't think you to be the possessive type, especially toward someone you supposedly hate."
"Oh, don't flatter yourself, I was merely annoyed because the library isn't the place to be flirting with your idolizing fans."
"Which, translated out of 'Hermione- speak' means that you wish that I was flirting with you instead, because you secretly adore me. It's that simple."
"Where did you get a crazy idea like THAT? And I adore you? Excuse me, I'm not the one that carried you to the hospital wing."
'So she did know' he thought. Now it was his turn to be caught off guard. What was he supposed to say to that? Surely she'd want to know why he did it. But even HE didn't know the answer to that question, how could he explain it to her?
But Draco didn't have to worry too much because Hermione continued on. "And I didn't even need your help."
"Um, actually it looked like you did. Unless, you're such a fabulous witch that you've developed super powers where you can run while unconscious."
"Well, I certainly didn't want help from YOU, that's for sure." Her voice slowly rose to a higher pitch with each word she spoke.
"Well excuse me for trying to help! I thought that maybe it'd be appreciated, but I guess trying to be considerate for once was a big mistake. I'll know better than to lend my service to a mudblood again!" His voice had an evident growing fury in it as well. "I can't believe how stupid I've been!"
"What are you TALKING about?" she yelled, both of the students now on their feet shouting across the table. "Lend your service? Aren't you modest? You make it sound like people are always in desperate need of your help and they're fortunate to have you grace them with your humble assistance!"
"Well, anyone would be damn lucky if I ever helped them!"
"Oh come ON Malfoy. You don't care about helping people! The only thing you care about is yourself. So, what did you want to do, blackmail me? What do you WANT from me?"
"I don't want anything! I was just trying to be nice for once, but I can see that's impossible! Why did I EVEN bother?!" Both of their tempers were running short, and the slightest things were making them snap, and lash out to unleash their frustrations.
"Why did you bother? Since when did any of this even MATTER?!" Hermione said, trying to control herself, but not doing a very good job.
"SINCE YOU!" he shouted, letting the words slip before he had a chance to contemplate what he was saying, or what it even meant.
Hermione was left speechless at this last outburst. What did he mean by that? Suddenly she realized that they were inches, actually, centimeters apart from each other, just staring, and breathing quite rapidly from all of the furious shouting. Many necks were craning in their direction to see what the big commotion was about, and so they wouldn't be put on display more, Draco said "Look, we both have very short tempers and were libel to say anything just now. Let's forget this conversation ever happened. We're here to work, not discuss our personal lives, so let's get back to work." He replied in a calm, icy tone, while sitting down and opening up to a random page in his book. Hermione stood there for another second, shook her head as if to clear it and sat back down as well.
They both concentrated on reading the seemingly blurred words before them, neither daring to break the silence, dreading what might be said. Instead they looked through the many novels, journals, biographies, and textbooks, but it seemed finding anything, at least for today, would be hopeless.
"Um, Malfoy, I don't think we're getting anywhere with this today, and it's getting late, so I think we should go."
Not feeling it appropriate to make a nasty remark he simply replied "Alright, I guess we can work more on this tomorrow."
"Yeah, that's good, same time?"
He nodded his head, and they quickly put the books away, gathered up their things and hurried out of the library. They made their way in opposite directions, without a second glance, but with many second thoughts occupying their minds.
Hermione walked straight up to her dormitory, did her homework not as thoroughly as she usually would have, and just laid down musing over what happened earlier. Each passing thought brought more and more bewilderment to her. What did Malfoy mean when he said that? Was he actually trying to be nicer? Did he possibly like her? 'Yeeaah riigght Hermione, I'm so SURE that's it' she thought to herself. 'Why is everything so confusing? Maybe I'm just out of my mind.'*
Draco too was in his dorm, hoping that Crabbe and Goyle wouldn't be back anytime soon. In the meantime he had a lot on his mind, which was getting to be a more usual occurrence every day. Why had he said that to Granger? What did it mean? 'You were just worked up, you didn't know what you were talking about.' He explained to himself. 'Oh God. Why is everything so confusing? Maybe I'm just out of my mind.'*
The next day during lunch he warily came toward Hermione, who was remarkably, at the moment, Harry and Ron free.
"Uh, Granger, I was thinking, since the library thing didn't work out too well yesterday, instead maybe we could interview some of the teachers to see if they know anything about this room or have seen anything strange there."
"For once Malfoy, you've actually had a good idea. How about we meet after dinner outside the Great Hall."
"Yeah, whatever." He said over his shoulder while walking out of the huge oak doors of the hall.
"What did he want?" Harry asked with animosity in his voice as he sat down next to Hermione.
"Yeah" continued Ron taking the other vacant seat next to her. "He didn't start anything did he? Because if he did...",but Hermione held a hand up to his mouth.
"Ron, please control yourself. Don't worry, he only wanted to discuss the assignment we're continuing for Dumbledore. But even if he was making trouble, I'm perfectly capable of handling it myself." She said slightly aggravated.
"We're only looking out for your best interest you know." Said Harry while giving her a meaningful look.
Hermione sighed and replied "Yeah, I know." For probably the first time in her life, Hermione wasn't looking forward to her next classes, but only because of whom she had to meet once they were over.
It was now 7:00 and Draco was impatiently waiting for Hermione. She came skidding around the corner and it took her everything in her power to keep from colliding with Malfoy.
"I didn't know you'd be so excited to see me Granger. What took so long anyway? Potter and Weasley couldn't bear to be unattached from your hip for more than a few seconds?"
"Well, it seems you've been here awhile. Did the Slytherins finally realize how sick they were of you and kick you out?"
"Ha...Ha...no. Now lets get this over with. Who should we go to first?
"Wait, what kind of questions are we going to ask?"
"Who their best friends and secret crushes are. What do you think, Granger? We'll ask them if they've ever been in this stupid room before and if anything happened there."
"Fine, lets go to McGonagall's office first, she's usually free at this time."
As they walked down the hallway nearing their destination, they recognized an advancing shadowy figure as Snape. He was walking extremely slow and had a dazed expression on his face. As he came closer he almost knocked into them, as he wasn't really paying attention to where he was going.
"Professor Snape, are you all right?" asked a curious Draco.
This knocked the teacher out of his stupor. "Huh? Oh, yes Mr. Malfoy, I'm perfectly fine." It was then that he noticed Hermione was there as well and he immediately scowled and said, "What are you doing here with him?"
She answered his question trying to sound as polite as possible, but on the inside was fuming at his tone. "Well, Professor Dumbledore has us working on something for him. Can we ask you a few questions if you don't mind?"
Their potions master let out a small laugh and rolled his eyes. "What does that crazy old loon have you wasting your time doing? Never mind, I don't really care to know, and I don't have time to be asked any silly little questions. Goodnight Mr. Malfoy, and don't be late for curfew." With this said he stalked down the rest of the long corridor.
Hermione and Draco gave each other a 'look' before continuing the short walk to see their next teacher. Hermione gently knocked on the door and an expectant looking Professor McGonagall flung open the door saying, "I knew you'd come back!"
Draco and Hermione couldn't help noticing her appearance was quite disheveled, hair tousled and clothes in disarray. As she realized it was two of her students, she quickly tried to hopelessly fix her robes and flushed with embarrassment.
"Oh, I'm so sorry, was there something important you needed?"
"Yes Professor, Mal-Draco and I have been working on an assignment for the headmaster. We were wondering if we could ask you a few questions about a certain mysterious room." Hermione answered.
"Oh. OH." Said a wide-eyed professor.
Hermione and Draco shared another curious glance before she continued.
"Well I'd be glad to help you, but I'm afraid I've got a lot of work to do. Now why don't you ask a few of the other teachers and maybe I can help some other time." She said with a slight smile before closing the door on them.
"What is with all of our teachers tonight?" asked an already exasperated Hermione.
"Who knows? But I'd rather not find out by spying near McGonagall's office, so who's our next candidate?"
"Well, how about Filch? He sees everything that goes on around here, he must know something."
"No way, I'm not going to that freaky, perverted, twisted man's lair to be tortured."
"Aawww. What is wittle Dwaco scawed?" she mocked in a baby voice.
"Of course not." He said haughtily. "I just don't feel like having to serve some cruel and unusual detention with him for no reason just so he can get some sort of sick pleasure out of it."
"I don't like him much either, but he can't give you detention for no reason. Now are you coming or not, because I'll be fine with taking all the credit for myself."
"Ugh, fine, but I know I'm going to regret this."
As they slowly crept down the dim and dreary dungeon corridor, Hermione was now a little freaked out, and thinking twice about coming here.
"Um, Malfoy, maybe it wasn't such a good idea to come to Filch. I mean, what could he know anyway?"
"Nuh-uh." He shook his head. "If I remember correctly, it was you who wanted to come here and you're not backing out. Look who's scared now."
"I am not. Who said I was scared? I never said I was scared." She replied nervously.
"Well then. You'll have no problem with going in first." He replied while giving her a slight nudge toward the door labeled 'Argus Filch, Caretaker'. She seemed to dawdle a bit before softly tapping on the door.
The creepy old man came to the door and in an aggravated voice asked, "What do you want?" Seeing Hermione and Draco he told...well, ordered them to come in and take a seat. Mrs. Norris, who was lazily occupying Filch's decrepit desk, hissed at Draco as he sat down in the torn leather chair.
"Now, I'm assuming you're here to serve detention." He tapped his fingers on the desk, smiling wickedly, as he eyed a tank full of spiders with freakish delight.
"Actually no." As Draco said this, Filch's face fell slightly, looking disappointed. Hermione noticed the 'torturer extraordinaire' kept glancing over at Draco with admiration, and thought that the sooner they got out of there, the better.
"We wanted to know if you've ever been to that room in the east wing that looks like an old common room, and what you can tell us about it." Hermione asked with trepidation.
Suddenly Filch got a faraway look in his eye and replied " I used spend many a-fine day in that room giving detentions." Then his expression changed to disgust. "It was sniveling brats like you who made trouble, and let me tell you they deserved every minute of it." Every minute of what exactly, Hermione didn't think she cared to find out.
"Those annoying pests were always whining about how 'strange things' would happen there and how scared they were to go in there. Load of rubbish, if I ever heard it. They were just trying to get out of their rightful punishment. Couldn't handle the consequences of their actions!" In Hermione's opinion, Filch was getting more crazed and homicidal by the second, and when she noticed the doll on his shelf that oddly resembled Malfoy, it didn't help any. Draco seemed to notice it too, and he was now cringing at the drooling Filch and the hissing Mrs. Norris in front of him.
Not being able to withstand the psycho any longer, Draco abruptly stood up and said "Well, thanks for your time, we really must be going though."
"Oh, no please stay just a few minutes longer." The man pleaded.
"No really, I have to um...go... feed my fish, and she has to, um, go brush her hair, yeah, ouch!"
At this last comment Hermione had kicked him in the shins, and before Filch could say another word she dragged an irritated Draco out of the office, and down the hall, as far away as possible.
After McGonagall had spoken with Hermione and Draco, she went to Dumbledore's office to see what he was up to now.
"Albus, why do you keep toying with these children? What are these silly assignments really good for? I don't see how it can improve the Slytherin- Gryffindor feud."
"Minerva, they are two of the most admired people in each of their houses. If they got along, sure, at first people would object, but eventually they would listen. And also, finally the people in the founding room will be able to rest easier."
"What on earth are you talking about?"
"You'll see soon enough, Minerva. Now why don't you go back down to your office? I'm sure someone will be there waiting for you." He replied grinning broadly and his eyes twinkling.
"You can let go of me now, I'm capable of walking on my own."
"Can you ever not make fun of me?" she asked, almost looking hurt.
"Can't you take a joke? And jeez, what was up with Filch. I am NEVER going back there ever again. And the only thing we learned is that he has some kind of strange obsession with me." He said while shuddering at the thought.
Hermione laughed at this and replied "Yeah, did you see that doll? What a lunatic! But we did learn one thing, that this room must be haunted if those poor kids saw 'strange happenings there."
"Do you have a bad short term memory or what? We already knew that from all that stuff that happened when we were in there. Interviewing teachers has got to be the worst idea you've ever had Granger."
"What? MY idea? Now whose memory is bad? This whole thing was YOUR idea. Don't even start with me Malfoy, I'm in no mood."
"Fine, fine, let's just go, it's almost curfew anyway."
After walking a little way back in complete silence Hermione suddenly blurted out "Why'd you do it Malfoy?"
He stopped walking and looked at her trying to find a way to dodge the question. "Do what?"
"Save me. Why'd you do it? And what did you mean in the library yesterday? I haven't been able to stop thinking about it, it's got me so confused."
"So, you haven't been able to stop thinking about me huh?" he asked while now casually leaning against the wall.
"Come on, I'm trying to be serious, now. I really want to know. What did you mean by that?"
Draco sighed and slumped down against the wall a little bit. He wore an expression that Hermione was sure he was unaccustomed to. But she was surprised when she realized it mirrored how she was feeling.
"Hermione, if you want to be serious, then I'll be honest with you." He couldn't help but almost laugh as her eyebrows raised in surprise at this. "The truth is, I have absolutely no idea. But, what I do know is that I don't think I hate you as much as I used to."
Hermione just blinked her eyes repeatedly as if this would prompt things to make more sense.
Draco continued on, "And, I saved you because there was no one else around who seemed to give a damn. I mean, not that I do either, it's just that, even though you're bloody bookworm Granger, I didn't want the Death Eaters to have the satisfaction of seeing you hurt, and I didn't really want to see you hurt either. And, I wasn't really thinking at the time, I just kind of...did it. And plus, the only other hurt girl around for me to save was Pansy." Draco had found now that he was rambling, something he had never done before, ever, except around her. Why did she do that to him?
Hermione wanted to reply, she really did, but she seemed extremely unable to form a coherent sentence and get the words from her brain to her mouth. Instead she just stood there staring until he pushed himself off the wall and walked down the hallway, off to Slytherin. But not before he turned around and said "And I did mean everything I said now, and in the library...Granger."
* This line is from Avril Lavigne's song "I'm with You", I love that song!
A/N: Hey! Wow, my longest one yet! 11 pages! Sorry again if you feel there's a lack of fluff, but I have to build tension LoL, and I have it all planned out, don't worry, I think you'll like what's coming in the next few chapters. Hope you liked this, and please Review so I know if you do! And after that, go read Susamina's fic, Slythindor, she's convinced it's bad, which its NOT, and its up to you to make her realize that LoL.
Thanks again to her, and to all of you wonderful reviewers: Calypso In Love, Gryffindor Girl, kaitou ama a chiaki, Star Moon, adrienne, Jennifer, dobbie-luvs-sweeties, dracosrockstar, Weasley Pride, animegirl-mika, Mione G, TFG, Tropical Flavored Yama, Rasberry_Jam, Kate, Untamed Unicorn, IloveLegolas, Rebecca, Lil_Cherri_12, barbara&liz, Ronnie's Sunshine, Slytherin Girl, emeraldstar, stephanie, sapphire613, V, shikonjewel, Eriol's bear, Angelena Granger, LikeitOrnot, Rosebud, potter-reader, Ragazza Doulce, f0xyness39, bouncer, Junsui Chikyuu, and ooga!
I also just wrote a songfic to that same Avril Lavigne song I mentioned before, 'I'm With You' and it's a really good Draco song LoL, so plz R&R that too!
Hopefully the next chapter will be out sooner then this one, but I've got to finish my summer assignments for school, and school will be starting soon, so TTYL! ~SweetWater~
A/N: Hey guys! I'm back and better than ever! Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration LoL, but I'll let you make that decision. Sorry I haven't updated in a while, but my parents were on vacation and I was at the beach every day learning how to surf :o), then I didn't know what to write next and it took me awhile to finish this chappie. So, anyway here it is at last, please review and hope you enjoy!
Chapter 8: Hostility, Confessions, and Peculiar Possessions
It was now two weeks from the holiday, back into the hectic class schedules for the Hogwarts students and everyone finally seemed to be going back to their normal routines. Hermione was spending much more time with Harry and Ron, and she and Draco had been, all the while, successfully ignoring each other. However, she knew the ignoring couldn't last much longer since she and Malfoy had both agreed to help Dumbledore solve his 'mystery'.
That day after classes were over and most students were enjoying their free time, Hermione cautiously approached Malfoy who was seemingly on his way to his common room. As he saw her nearing him, he told the other Slytherins who were relishing in his presence that he'd catch up to them.
"Couldn't resist staying away from me for too long, could you Granger?" he asked smugly as she hesitatingly came up to him.
"No, Malfoy, if it were up to me right now, I'd be as far from here as humanly possible, but we are supposed to be working on this task for Dumbledore, and it's about time we got started."
Draco sighed and replied "Well, yes, I suppose, as usual you have to be annoyingly all-knowing. So, um, where exactly do we start?"
"Well, the best thing would be to research in the library." She stated.
"Ah, yes the LIBRARY, of course that's ALWAYS typical bookworm Granger's perfect solution. And I bet by going to the library we can end world hunger, global warming, cure all diseases and achieve world peace too! Why didn't we get there sooner? We'd better hurry up!" he said, faking eagerness, sarcasm dripping off his tongue.
"Shut-up Malfoy. I thought it was the most logical solution, but if your genius intellect knows just what Dumbledore was telling us about, then by all means, please share this brilliant concept with me, and we'll disregard my lowly idea." She answered with just as much sarcasm as her antagonist.
"Now, I know your perfect reputation would be greatly scarred if you were ever seen talking to a 'mudblood' like me, so let's get moving." she said with disdain.
Draco slightly winced at her choice of words, but the last thing he wanted was another heated confrontation if she noticed how it perturbed him, which he was sure she would any minute. Consequently, that's how he now he found himself in a more secluded area of the library flipping through various books Hermione had deemed useful. So, that basically comprised of almost every text the enthusiastic girl had laid eyes upon.
As he scanned a few pages of 'Hogwarts: A History; Revised Edition' he let his mind trail back to the night of the Christmas Ball. Was Hermione thankful that he saved her? Did she even know it was he that did it? Why did he care so much if she did know? And why did he kiss her? But the biggest problem was why did he want to do it again, this time with her awake? This was utterly ridiculous, and he actually laughed out loud at that.
"What's so funny?" Hermione questioned as she looked up from her book she was previously so engrossed in.
"Oh, um nothing." Draco then noticed Hermione's scowling face, and assuming it was directed at him was about to make a rude comment, but then he realized her glare wasn't aimed at him, but rather, something behind him. He turned around and noticed a group of third years sitting in a circle at a nearby table, whispering and pointing at him. He flashed them his most prized flirtatious grin and they giggled and turned around. 'So, that's why Hermione was giving them a withering look.' She must have realized that he noticed, because she quickly focused back on her book, trying not to look embarrassed. She slightly jumped as he reached over and snapped it shut. Her expression abruptly changed from embarrassment to annoyance.
"What do you think you're doing Malfoy?"
"Well, if I didn't know any better, which by the way I do, I'd say that little mudblood Granger's jealous." He smirked at her, while seeing her stammer, obviously very flustered by this last comment.
"What are you talking about? What would I have to be jealous of?" she finally choked out, trying to remain cool.
"Well, that's what I'd like to know. Would you care to explain why you are so visibly showing signs of loathing towards those sweet, innocent girls? I wouldn't think you to be the possessive type, especially toward someone you supposedly hate."
"Oh, don't flatter yourself, I was merely annoyed because the library isn't the place to be flirting with your idolizing fans."
"Which, translated out of 'Hermione- speak' means that you wish that I was flirting with you instead, because you secretly adore me. It's that simple."
"Where did you get a crazy idea like THAT? And I adore you? Excuse me, I'm not the one that carried you to the hospital wing."
'So she did know' he thought. Now it was his turn to be caught off guard. What was he supposed to say to that? Surely she'd want to know why he did it. But even HE didn't know the answer to that question, how could he explain it to her?
But Draco didn't have to worry too much because Hermione continued on. "And I didn't even need your help."
"Um, actually it looked like you did. Unless, you're such a fabulous witch that you've developed super powers where you can run while unconscious."
"Well, I certainly didn't want help from YOU, that's for sure." Her voice slowly rose to a higher pitch with each word she spoke.
"Well excuse me for trying to help! I thought that maybe it'd be appreciated, but I guess trying to be considerate for once was a big mistake. I'll know better than to lend my service to a mudblood again!" His voice had an evident growing fury in it as well. "I can't believe how stupid I've been!"
"What are you TALKING about?" she yelled, both of the students now on their feet shouting across the table. "Lend your service? Aren't you modest? You make it sound like people are always in desperate need of your help and they're fortunate to have you grace them with your humble assistance!"
"Well, anyone would be damn lucky if I ever helped them!"
"Oh come ON Malfoy. You don't care about helping people! The only thing you care about is yourself. So, what did you want to do, blackmail me? What do you WANT from me?"
"I don't want anything! I was just trying to be nice for once, but I can see that's impossible! Why did I EVEN bother?!" Both of their tempers were running short, and the slightest things were making them snap, and lash out to unleash their frustrations.
"Why did you bother? Since when did any of this even MATTER?!" Hermione said, trying to control herself, but not doing a very good job.
"SINCE YOU!" he shouted, letting the words slip before he had a chance to contemplate what he was saying, or what it even meant.
Hermione was left speechless at this last outburst. What did he mean by that? Suddenly she realized that they were inches, actually, centimeters apart from each other, just staring, and breathing quite rapidly from all of the furious shouting. Many necks were craning in their direction to see what the big commotion was about, and so they wouldn't be put on display more, Draco said "Look, we both have very short tempers and were libel to say anything just now. Let's forget this conversation ever happened. We're here to work, not discuss our personal lives, so let's get back to work." He replied in a calm, icy tone, while sitting down and opening up to a random page in his book. Hermione stood there for another second, shook her head as if to clear it and sat back down as well.
They both concentrated on reading the seemingly blurred words before them, neither daring to break the silence, dreading what might be said. Instead they looked through the many novels, journals, biographies, and textbooks, but it seemed finding anything, at least for today, would be hopeless.
"Um, Malfoy, I don't think we're getting anywhere with this today, and it's getting late, so I think we should go."
Not feeling it appropriate to make a nasty remark he simply replied "Alright, I guess we can work more on this tomorrow."
"Yeah, that's good, same time?"
He nodded his head, and they quickly put the books away, gathered up their things and hurried out of the library. They made their way in opposite directions, without a second glance, but with many second thoughts occupying their minds.
Hermione walked straight up to her dormitory, did her homework not as thoroughly as she usually would have, and just laid down musing over what happened earlier. Each passing thought brought more and more bewilderment to her. What did Malfoy mean when he said that? Was he actually trying to be nicer? Did he possibly like her? 'Yeeaah riigght Hermione, I'm so SURE that's it' she thought to herself. 'Why is everything so confusing? Maybe I'm just out of my mind.'*
Draco too was in his dorm, hoping that Crabbe and Goyle wouldn't be back anytime soon. In the meantime he had a lot on his mind, which was getting to be a more usual occurrence every day. Why had he said that to Granger? What did it mean? 'You were just worked up, you didn't know what you were talking about.' He explained to himself. 'Oh God. Why is everything so confusing? Maybe I'm just out of my mind.'*
The next day during lunch he warily came toward Hermione, who was remarkably, at the moment, Harry and Ron free.
"Uh, Granger, I was thinking, since the library thing didn't work out too well yesterday, instead maybe we could interview some of the teachers to see if they know anything about this room or have seen anything strange there."
"For once Malfoy, you've actually had a good idea. How about we meet after dinner outside the Great Hall."
"Yeah, whatever." He said over his shoulder while walking out of the huge oak doors of the hall.
"What did he want?" Harry asked with animosity in his voice as he sat down next to Hermione.
"Yeah" continued Ron taking the other vacant seat next to her. "He didn't start anything did he? Because if he did...",but Hermione held a hand up to his mouth.
"Ron, please control yourself. Don't worry, he only wanted to discuss the assignment we're continuing for Dumbledore. But even if he was making trouble, I'm perfectly capable of handling it myself." She said slightly aggravated.
"We're only looking out for your best interest you know." Said Harry while giving her a meaningful look.
Hermione sighed and replied "Yeah, I know." For probably the first time in her life, Hermione wasn't looking forward to her next classes, but only because of whom she had to meet once they were over.
It was now 7:00 and Draco was impatiently waiting for Hermione. She came skidding around the corner and it took her everything in her power to keep from colliding with Malfoy.
"I didn't know you'd be so excited to see me Granger. What took so long anyway? Potter and Weasley couldn't bear to be unattached from your hip for more than a few seconds?"
"Well, it seems you've been here awhile. Did the Slytherins finally realize how sick they were of you and kick you out?"
"Ha...Ha...no. Now lets get this over with. Who should we go to first?
"Wait, what kind of questions are we going to ask?"
"Who their best friends and secret crushes are. What do you think, Granger? We'll ask them if they've ever been in this stupid room before and if anything happened there."
"Fine, lets go to McGonagall's office first, she's usually free at this time."
As they walked down the hallway nearing their destination, they recognized an advancing shadowy figure as Snape. He was walking extremely slow and had a dazed expression on his face. As he came closer he almost knocked into them, as he wasn't really paying attention to where he was going.
"Professor Snape, are you all right?" asked a curious Draco.
This knocked the teacher out of his stupor. "Huh? Oh, yes Mr. Malfoy, I'm perfectly fine." It was then that he noticed Hermione was there as well and he immediately scowled and said, "What are you doing here with him?"
She answered his question trying to sound as polite as possible, but on the inside was fuming at his tone. "Well, Professor Dumbledore has us working on something for him. Can we ask you a few questions if you don't mind?"
Their potions master let out a small laugh and rolled his eyes. "What does that crazy old loon have you wasting your time doing? Never mind, I don't really care to know, and I don't have time to be asked any silly little questions. Goodnight Mr. Malfoy, and don't be late for curfew." With this said he stalked down the rest of the long corridor.
Hermione and Draco gave each other a 'look' before continuing the short walk to see their next teacher. Hermione gently knocked on the door and an expectant looking Professor McGonagall flung open the door saying, "I knew you'd come back!"
Draco and Hermione couldn't help noticing her appearance was quite disheveled, hair tousled and clothes in disarray. As she realized it was two of her students, she quickly tried to hopelessly fix her robes and flushed with embarrassment.
"Oh, I'm so sorry, was there something important you needed?"
"Yes Professor, Mal-Draco and I have been working on an assignment for the headmaster. We were wondering if we could ask you a few questions about a certain mysterious room." Hermione answered.
"Oh. OH." Said a wide-eyed professor.
Hermione and Draco shared another curious glance before she continued.
"Well I'd be glad to help you, but I'm afraid I've got a lot of work to do. Now why don't you ask a few of the other teachers and maybe I can help some other time." She said with a slight smile before closing the door on them.
"What is with all of our teachers tonight?" asked an already exasperated Hermione.
"Who knows? But I'd rather not find out by spying near McGonagall's office, so who's our next candidate?"
"Well, how about Filch? He sees everything that goes on around here, he must know something."
"No way, I'm not going to that freaky, perverted, twisted man's lair to be tortured."
"Aawww. What is wittle Dwaco scawed?" she mocked in a baby voice.
"Of course not." He said haughtily. "I just don't feel like having to serve some cruel and unusual detention with him for no reason just so he can get some sort of sick pleasure out of it."
"I don't like him much either, but he can't give you detention for no reason. Now are you coming or not, because I'll be fine with taking all the credit for myself."
"Ugh, fine, but I know I'm going to regret this."
As they slowly crept down the dim and dreary dungeon corridor, Hermione was now a little freaked out, and thinking twice about coming here.
"Um, Malfoy, maybe it wasn't such a good idea to come to Filch. I mean, what could he know anyway?"
"Nuh-uh." He shook his head. "If I remember correctly, it was you who wanted to come here and you're not backing out. Look who's scared now."
"I am not. Who said I was scared? I never said I was scared." She replied nervously.
"Well then. You'll have no problem with going in first." He replied while giving her a slight nudge toward the door labeled 'Argus Filch, Caretaker'. She seemed to dawdle a bit before softly tapping on the door.
The creepy old man came to the door and in an aggravated voice asked, "What do you want?" Seeing Hermione and Draco he told...well, ordered them to come in and take a seat. Mrs. Norris, who was lazily occupying Filch's decrepit desk, hissed at Draco as he sat down in the torn leather chair.
"Now, I'm assuming you're here to serve detention." He tapped his fingers on the desk, smiling wickedly, as he eyed a tank full of spiders with freakish delight.
"Actually no." As Draco said this, Filch's face fell slightly, looking disappointed. Hermione noticed the 'torturer extraordinaire' kept glancing over at Draco with admiration, and thought that the sooner they got out of there, the better.
"We wanted to know if you've ever been to that room in the east wing that looks like an old common room, and what you can tell us about it." Hermione asked with trepidation.
Suddenly Filch got a faraway look in his eye and replied " I used spend many a-fine day in that room giving detentions." Then his expression changed to disgust. "It was sniveling brats like you who made trouble, and let me tell you they deserved every minute of it." Every minute of what exactly, Hermione didn't think she cared to find out.
"Those annoying pests were always whining about how 'strange things' would happen there and how scared they were to go in there. Load of rubbish, if I ever heard it. They were just trying to get out of their rightful punishment. Couldn't handle the consequences of their actions!" In Hermione's opinion, Filch was getting more crazed and homicidal by the second, and when she noticed the doll on his shelf that oddly resembled Malfoy, it didn't help any. Draco seemed to notice it too, and he was now cringing at the drooling Filch and the hissing Mrs. Norris in front of him.
Not being able to withstand the psycho any longer, Draco abruptly stood up and said "Well, thanks for your time, we really must be going though."
"Oh, no please stay just a few minutes longer." The man pleaded.
"No really, I have to um...go... feed my fish, and she has to, um, go brush her hair, yeah, ouch!"
At this last comment Hermione had kicked him in the shins, and before Filch could say another word she dragged an irritated Draco out of the office, and down the hall, as far away as possible.
After McGonagall had spoken with Hermione and Draco, she went to Dumbledore's office to see what he was up to now.
"Albus, why do you keep toying with these children? What are these silly assignments really good for? I don't see how it can improve the Slytherin- Gryffindor feud."
"Minerva, they are two of the most admired people in each of their houses. If they got along, sure, at first people would object, but eventually they would listen. And also, finally the people in the founding room will be able to rest easier."
"What on earth are you talking about?"
"You'll see soon enough, Minerva. Now why don't you go back down to your office? I'm sure someone will be there waiting for you." He replied grinning broadly and his eyes twinkling.
"You can let go of me now, I'm capable of walking on my own."
"Can you ever not make fun of me?" she asked, almost looking hurt.
"Can't you take a joke? And jeez, what was up with Filch. I am NEVER going back there ever again. And the only thing we learned is that he has some kind of strange obsession with me." He said while shuddering at the thought.
Hermione laughed at this and replied "Yeah, did you see that doll? What a lunatic! But we did learn one thing, that this room must be haunted if those poor kids saw 'strange happenings there."
"Do you have a bad short term memory or what? We already knew that from all that stuff that happened when we were in there. Interviewing teachers has got to be the worst idea you've ever had Granger."
"What? MY idea? Now whose memory is bad? This whole thing was YOUR idea. Don't even start with me Malfoy, I'm in no mood."
"Fine, fine, let's just go, it's almost curfew anyway."
After walking a little way back in complete silence Hermione suddenly blurted out "Why'd you do it Malfoy?"
He stopped walking and looked at her trying to find a way to dodge the question. "Do what?"
"Save me. Why'd you do it? And what did you mean in the library yesterday? I haven't been able to stop thinking about it, it's got me so confused."
"So, you haven't been able to stop thinking about me huh?" he asked while now casually leaning against the wall.
"Come on, I'm trying to be serious, now. I really want to know. What did you mean by that?"
Draco sighed and slumped down against the wall a little bit. He wore an expression that Hermione was sure he was unaccustomed to. But she was surprised when she realized it mirrored how she was feeling.
"Hermione, if you want to be serious, then I'll be honest with you." He couldn't help but almost laugh as her eyebrows raised in surprise at this. "The truth is, I have absolutely no idea. But, what I do know is that I don't think I hate you as much as I used to."
Hermione just blinked her eyes repeatedly as if this would prompt things to make more sense.
Draco continued on, "And, I saved you because there was no one else around who seemed to give a damn. I mean, not that I do either, it's just that, even though you're bloody bookworm Granger, I didn't want the Death Eaters to have the satisfaction of seeing you hurt, and I didn't really want to see you hurt either. And, I wasn't really thinking at the time, I just kind of...did it. And plus, the only other hurt girl around for me to save was Pansy." Draco had found now that he was rambling, something he had never done before, ever, except around her. Why did she do that to him?
Hermione wanted to reply, she really did, but she seemed extremely unable to form a coherent sentence and get the words from her brain to her mouth. Instead she just stood there staring until he pushed himself off the wall and walked down the hallway, off to Slytherin. But not before he turned around and said "And I did mean everything I said now, and in the library...Granger."
* This line is from Avril Lavigne's song "I'm with You", I love that song!
A/N: Hey! Wow, my longest one yet! 11 pages! Sorry again if you feel there's a lack of fluff, but I have to build tension LoL, and I have it all planned out, don't worry, I think you'll like what's coming in the next few chapters. Hope you liked this, and please Review so I know if you do! And after that, go read Susamina's fic, Slythindor, she's convinced it's bad, which its NOT, and its up to you to make her realize that LoL.
Thanks again to her, and to all of you wonderful reviewers: Calypso In Love, Gryffindor Girl, kaitou ama a chiaki, Star Moon, adrienne, Jennifer, dobbie-luvs-sweeties, dracosrockstar, Weasley Pride, animegirl-mika, Mione G, TFG, Tropical Flavored Yama, Rasberry_Jam, Kate, Untamed Unicorn, IloveLegolas, Rebecca, Lil_Cherri_12, barbara&liz, Ronnie's Sunshine, Slytherin Girl, emeraldstar, stephanie, sapphire613, V, shikonjewel, Eriol's bear, Angelena Granger, LikeitOrnot, Rosebud, potter-reader, Ragazza Doulce, f0xyness39, bouncer, Junsui Chikyuu, and ooga!
I also just wrote a songfic to that same Avril Lavigne song I mentioned before, 'I'm With You' and it's a really good Draco song LoL, so plz R&R that too!
Hopefully the next chapter will be out sooner then this one, but I've got to finish my summer assignments for school, and school will be starting soon, so TTYL! ~SweetWater~