Disclaimer:  If you think that Hermione, Draco, Ron, Ginny, or Harry are mine, you're wrong. Everyone else, well then you'd be right.  But honestly, who reading this thinks, "Hey, they must own these characters.  I think I'll sue them for money."  Let's be serious here.

A pregnant pause permeated the air.  Seth, sensing the ever growing tension in the room, stood up suddenly.  "I'm going to go make some tea, does anybody else want some?"  Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your outlook), he blew his cover by leaving before he got an answer from either of the two remaining people in the room.  Thanks, Seth, for deserting the ship.  True mate, he is. She thought, rebelliously, her eyes studying the ground intently.

She knew Draco was still waiting patiently for an answer.  Finally, she found her voice.  "How do I know you're not just trying to hurt me?"   Good going, Hermione.  Now he thinks you don't trust him.

*Do you trust him?*

Shut up!  I thought I had gotten rid of you!

*I'm your conscious, Hermione.  I can't go away.  It's physically impossible.*

Oh, go away!  I already have to deal with him.  Isn't that enough?

*As your majesty wishes.  But don't forget that you still haven't answered his question…*

Oh, gee, thanks for reminding me…

Draco sighed, bringing Hermione out of her inner argument with herself.  "You don't.  You should, but apparently you don't.  Friends don't hurt each other like that, Hermione."  His voice sounded resigned, not angry, as she usually associated with Draco.

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes.   I can't cry now.  I feel like all I do anymore is cry.  But he's wrong.  "Not all friends don't hurt each other."

Draco sighed again, and hugged Hermione to him.  Oh, bugger.  Please tell me I didn't say that out loud.  "'Mione, honey, I just told you more about myself than I've ever told anyone else – including my parents.  I'm not Ron."  Then, in a low voice, almost as if he was talking to himself, he added, "Although, sometimes I wish I was."

What does that mean?  But before she could ask him, he was continuing on in a louder voice. " 'Mione, just answer the question.  Will you go with me?  It doesn't have to be a date, if that's what's making you hesitant.  I just want you to be comfortable, and figured – "

Hermione put her hand up to his mouth, to get him to shut up.  "Sometimes, Draco, you talk too much."  She said, smiling.  It's amazing what a difference a few minutes makes.  "I'd be honored to go with you to the Ball.  And may I have the will to keep myself together all night.

A/N:  Yes, it's short.  I know, I'm horrible about that.  But I really think it's a good place to stop.  Besides, you're getting the next chapter at the same time, so why are you complaining.  Hit the button  right down there

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And don't forget to review after reading the next chapter!  grin

Give Me Stitches:  She said yes.  Happy?  See, I'm easy to bribe.  Just tell me I'm the best writer. wink