Disclaimer: I don't own any of the characters. It is based on the characters belonging to JK Rowling. I, however, only own the plot! :( I also do not own the song that is in this chapter. It belongs to Nick Carter and I was so inspired by it. The song title: DO I HAVE TO CRY FOR YOU? Thanks for the inspiration! :)
AN: I hope you liked chapter 6!! This, my friends, is a looooooooong chapter! Actually, it seemed endless, so, I had to make it into 2 chapters! Lots of kissing and mushy stuff! lol! Enjoy! R&R!
Chapter 7: Good Date or Bad Date?
The next day, Hermione woke up. Draco had left. She got dressed and walked to her dresser so she could brush her hair. She sat down in front of the mirror. She admired the locket. She had not taken it off; it was on her for the past 4 days. She loved it. It was one of her most prized possessions. She grabbed it and kissed it softly. When she was done, she headed for the common room.
"A letter came from McGonagall," Draco said walking to Hermione and kissed her cheek softly. She took the letter and read it.
Dear Mr. Malfoy and Ms.Granger,
For the next week, you do not have to go to class, as there will be a lot of preparation each day for the dance on Friday. You will be helping the teachers. On Monday, please meet me in my Transfiguration class at 10:00.
Professor McGonagall
"Wow! We get the week off!" Hermione said.
"Um... I asked Professor McGonagall if I could take you on a date to the Witches Café ..." he started but Hermione jumped in.
"That very fancy one?"
"Yeah, that one! And she said that we could go! I made arrangements for 8:00 this Wednesday. You can dress fancy ... robes aren't necessary. It's dinner and ...." Draco said, he wasn't going to tell her the last part. She nodded then said ...
"I'm not wearing the same dress as Friday though."
"Dammit!" Draco said kissing her on the cheek. She told him that she was wearing something else that was similar but not the same. The next 2 hours went by and they talked about Muggle music and their favourite songs. They also talked about favourite childhood Christmas' and what their favourite memory was. At 9:45, they set off for the Transfiguration room.
They stopped in front of McGonagall office to hear her say ...
"That is out of my control Lucius. I cannot tell Draco to stop dating Ms. Granger. It is his decision."
"Fine Minerva. I must leave now," Lucius said, walking towards the door. He got to the door and saw Draco holding Hermione's hand. "Disgusting Draco. Dating someone like ... her," he added. Hermione felt a cold shiver run down her spine.
"Mr. Malfoy, I do not care ..." but she stopped. She looked hard into his eyes. They were staring at ...
"A locket? Who gave it to you?" Lucius asked grabbing the locket with his fist.
"No one," she said, grabbing his forearm. He released the fist and the locket.
"I gave it to her ..." Draco said confidently. Draco seemed to read his fathers mind. "I gave it to her because..." he turned and faced Hermione and grabbed her other hand. "I love her." Professor McGonagall walked towards the door. Lucius' face curled in disgust.
"Do you now?" he yelled. "Do you know what this could do to my reputation? The Malfoy name?" Draco let go of Hermione's hand and faced his father.
"Is everything about your reputation? What about the other things in life? Love? Friendship? Laughter? Happiness? Do these mean nothing to you?" Draco yelled back. Hermione and McGonagall stared at each other looking very nervous. "I used to be like you father. I used to be rude, selfish and heartless. But then ..." his voice calmed as he said, "I realized there was more to life then that. I got to know Hermione ... I fell in love with her. What are you going to do about that? I was so rude to her for 6 years. I called her thousands of names. You know what? True feelings aren't things to hide. I love her, Dad and I don't care if you like. I've learned my lesson. I think that it is time you learn yours." Lucius was stunned. He swallowed his pride and said nothing. He gave Draco cut eye and left. Hermione had tears in her eyes. She held them back so McGonagall wouldn't see.
"Well, on a lighter note," McGonagall said, trying not to look worried. "Ms. Granger are you alright?" She had seen Hermione wiping the tears from her eyes. Draco ran over and hugged her tightly. McGonagall could see that they were both crying and said that they could come in when they were ready. She walked in and sat down.
"Draco? What happened?"
"My father needed a wake up call. He got it. Now, I'm seriously worried about your safety now ... I think that was a bad idea," he said, crying also. Hermione told him that that was not a bad idea or mistake she said that it was very brave. After a few minutes they walked in the classroom. They had stopped crying and were ready to work. They went to the 2 front seats were McGonagall's desk was.
"Now, before we start, I would like to ask you, Ms. Granger if I may see your locket," McGonagall asked walking towards her.. Hermione nodded and opened the locket for her. She saw the picture of Hermione and Draco. She read the inscription "Love Lasts Forever" and she started to cry.
"Professor, are you alright?" Draco asked, hesitantly.
"I'm alright, Mr. Malfoy. I just think that it is so amazing ... Two people come from different houses and they fall in love. I think that it is wonderful. You two are an inspiration to everyone." Draco and Hermione blushed. They weren't embarrassed. They had no idea that they were inspirational.
"Professor, I just wanted to say that true feelings aren't things to hide ... even to people who don't want to hear it or admit it," Draco said softly, for a second time.
The next 2 hours, they discussed many things. Hermione was put to work. She had to fill out order forms and Draco sent them with owls. They were finally done and left for the common room. They reached the common room and Hermione said ...
"Draco, that was so brave of you! You told your father that you loved me. You taught him a lesson on life! I love you!"
"I have no idea what came over me. I surprised myself. But it felt good to finally get that off my chest. He really did need a wake up call and I was just hoping that person to wake him up wasn't me ... but it was me," he answered.
"I was so scared when he grabbed the locket. I was scared that he would rip it off my neck and break it," Hermione said. "I want to let you know, I got an owl from my Mom the other day ... and... she and my Dad want to meet you. I'm sorry I didn't tell you earlier but my Mom knows we are dating and everything that you've done for me," she added, as a big smile crossed her face.
"Me too! I want to meet your Mom and Dad. I've told my Mom everything also! She told me that my Dad would be angry if he found out. She told me to protect you. And I told her that I was already protecting you ... with my life." He leaned in slowly and kissed her lips. I'm so scared now, he thought, what have I done? He's gonna hurt her now ... I can feel it.
* * *
The next day was Tuesday, and they met McGonagall. They had received the owls back from yesterday. Today they had to send the money to the stores. It took a lot longer then expected. They said good-bye to Professor McGonagall, who seemed to be uptight and not herself. Neither of them said anything but Hermione thought that it was about what happened yesterday.
For the rest of the day, they read owls. Draco, got an owl from his mother as did Hermione. His letter said:
Draco,
Your Father came home yesterday, very angry. He said that you were with Hermione, holding her hand. He said that he was disgusted and he said you yelled at him. Normally, I would tell you that's wrong, but in this case I'm defending you. I think you have a better point then he does. When I told him that I had known about this, he hit me with that stupid cane of his and he left the house. I'm okay, so please don't worry. I just have a scratch that's all nothing serious. I have no idea where he is. Your father was already hot headed and he doesn't like to be challenged especially by his son. Please know, I'm on your side and just remember son, I'm always here for you. I have owled her mother and she seems like a wonderful lady. We are both looking out to see if we, together, can find him. Just look out and be aware of where you are. I want you to watch out for Hermione and continue to care and love her. You are doing a wonderful job! I have told you this already, I would like to meet the girl who swept my son off of his feet!
Sending all my Love,
Mom
PS: Good Luck on the date tomorrow! I do hope she liked the locket. Her mother said she hasn't taken it off since you gave it to her!!! She said that it was one of her most prized possessions!! If you are going to write to me, I'll be at Mrs. Granger's house. She invited me to stay at her house for a while until this is all sorted out. She thought that that was safer. Your father doesn't know where they live so it is safe.
Mom
Draco re-read the letter to make sure he read the part where his father hit his mother.
"My Father, hit my Mom? What the hell is he thinking?" Draco said, as tears flooded his eyes.
"Draco, I'm so sorry," Hermione said, grabbing him and hugging him. He cried on her shoulder.
"It's not your fault. This is all my ..." he started but Hermione interrupted.
"Draco, it's not your fault either. I think you are brave and strong. I know it takes a lot to make you cry and I know that you are hurting with that news, but she'll be okay. She said so herself. And she's on the look out for your dad and my mom is looking too," Hermione said, looking on the bright side.
"I guess your right. But, I'm still worried for you and now ... my mom. You have no idea what my dad is capable of doing. When he puts his mind to something, he will accomplish it and he can be very violent," Draco said, heavy hearted. "Read the letter from your mom, Hermione."
She took the letter off the table and opened it. It said:
Hermione,
I do hope that you are okay. Mrs. Malfoy sent me an owl and she told me what happened. She seems like a wonderful person; she seems the opposite of Lucius. I just want you to take care of yourself and Draco. He seems like a wonderful person! She also told me what he said to his father. Her and myself are writing regularly to try and to find his father. Please don't worry about her, she said that when she was hit, she struggled and it was nothing serious. Her and I are friends and both seem to think it's best to stay together and let nothing happens to you or Draco. I owled her to come and stay with your Father and I. I think that it will be safer that way. He would never come to where we live so it works out fairly well. Mrs. Malfoy and I are going to be sending regular owls to yourself and Draco, just so we know nothing is wrong. We would like you and him to write back and sign your names together. Be aware of everything around you and don't go wandering around after dark. I have mentioned this time and time again, I would like to meet Draco. He seems like a wonderful young man. Tell him he can come over to our house during the summer, if he can get the time off. I told his mother that you loves the locket! I told her you wouldn't take it off! I'll write to you when his mother gets here.
With all my Love,
Mom
PS: Good Luck on the date tomorrow! I hope you have a good time!
Mom
"That was sweet of your mother to invite my mother to your house for a while," Draco said.
"I'm just really glad that your mother is going to be safe for a while," Hermione said, still hugging Draco. The rest of Tuesday was spent in Draco's room. Hermione thought that it was time to comfort him. He was in distress and wouldn't stop crying. He was still upset about the letter that was sent. He kept saying his mother was in danger and something was going to happen. Hermione reminded him that his father didn't know where her parents lived.
It was well into the night, when Hermione woke up to find herself sleeping in the same bed as Draco. It's almost every night we fall asleep in the same bed; it's really romantic, she thought. She soon fell asleep in his arms, again.
Wednesday morning came quite fast. Draco, woke up Hermione with a kiss on the cheek.
"Wake up sleeping beauty!" he said. "We have to go and meet with McGonagall pretty soon!" he added, softly. Hermione got up and told him that she would meet in the common room. Hermione never told Draco, she was so excited about the date tonight. She went to her room and put jeans and a tank top on. She went to the common room to meet Draco. They left holding hands. The only thing the Hermione could think about was the date tonight. It was going to take her a while get ready. The dress that she picked was beautiful. It was one of the two that her parents bought her, for her birthday, before she left for Hogwarts.
The meeting had taken a lot longer then expected. The meeting had lasted 7 hours making last minute changes and plans. They had to travel to Hogsmede to pick up everything for set up, Friday morning. They had more to pick up tomorrow.
They reached the common room and Hermione said good-bye and that she would see Draco in 3 hours.
"I can't wait to see you later!" he said, kissing her on the lips.
Three hours later, Draco waited nervously for Hermione outside the Witches Café. He went and got his hair cut. Now, his hair was spiked up at the front. He wore a black suit with a silk green top and a silk silver tie. A carriage pulled up and stopped in front of Draco. The door opened and his mouth dropped.
Hermione came out with a very big baby pink dress with a silk shawl. Her hair was in a curled ponytail with babies breath in the curls.
"Hermione ... you ... you ... WOW! Words have failed me!" Draco said.
"I've never seen you with short hair or in a suit! You look really hot!" Hermione said, making herself and Draco blush.
"You look pretty hot yourself," he said. Draco couldn't wipe the smile off his face. He seems so happy, thought Hermione; this is the happiest that he's been since Monday. Draco put his arm out and escorted Hermione into the Café. She put her hand on his arm and they walked inside the Café. "You really love that locket don't you?"
"I really do! It is so beautiful!" she answered. They walked in and a witch showed them to their private booth over looking the lake and the endless snow covered hills. The table was lit by a single vanilla smelling candle. There were white roses in the middle of the table. Draco waited until Hermione sat down before sitting down himself. "Such a gentlemen!" she said, smiling brightly. "I've got something for you," she added. She pulled a box out of her hand bag and handed it to him.
He took the box from her, still smiling. "Thank you!" he said, as their dinner arrived. He opened the box wondering what it was. He opened it and saw a silver watch with Roman Numerals on it. Around the edges was an inscription. It said, 'For My One True Love.' "Hermione, this is beautiful!" he said, putting it on his left hand. He then leaned over the table and kissed Hermione. "I hope you have fun tonight! Hermione, I want to be honest with you ... ever since the year started and we got to be Head Boy and Head Girl together ... and after that special night last month, when I ... er ... confessed my feelings toward you, I've been so happy. You've changed me. I used to be rude and selfish but you always saw the best in me. You were always the one to look on the positive side. I wanted to thank you for helping me see the other half... the good half. I love you and I don't know where I would be if we hadn't started to date," he said, wiping the tears coming down Hermione's cheek. "You mean the world to me. You've made me a better person. I know that your scared about the thing with my dad and everything but you've been such an influence in my life. Since the beginning of the year, I liked you and I was scared that you didn't. I kept that to myself. I know that being rude to you wasn't the best way to show. But, we all make mistakes. I want to apologize for that. I want this night to make up for all those names and for the times I made your life miserable."
"Draco, I love you too! I don't know where I would be without you!" she said, smiling and crying. When they were done dinner, a slow song came on when he asked ...
"May I have this dance, Miss?" he asked, getting up and going to Hermione; he gave her, his hand.
"Yes, I would love to dance!" she said, getting up and grabbing his hand. They walked together to the dance floor. They started to dance slowly; they danced quietly for a few songs. Draco was the first to speak.
"May I ask you something?" he asked.
"Yes!" she said, kissing his cheek softly.
"Do you see us getting married? And please, be honest," he asked.
"I do see us getting married but with one obstacle ..." she said, hesitantly.
"My dad. I know. I wish that he would see you the way I see you Hermione. I really want him to see what a wonderful person you are and how much you mean to me," he said. For the rest of the night, they discussed what their wedding would be like. The night was filled with laughter and love. But, unfortunately, it had to end. They walked outside to the carriage that brought them back to Hogwarts. They got out and walked to the common room.
"Do you want to sleep in my room tonight?" Draco asked, politely. Hermione kissed him, passionately.
"Answer your question?" Draco nodded. They walked up the spiralled stair case to his room. They got in and they walked straight for the bed. They were on his bed. They started to kiss. His tongue explored her mouth and hers explored his. They started to undress each other. They were in their under garments before Hermione realized what was going on.
"Draco, w-what is going on?" she asked, nervously.
"We're going to you know ... if you want to," he said to her. She pushed him off of herself. She couldn't go through with it.
"D-Draco, I'm ... so sorry. I can't go through with this," she said, panic stricken. She grabbed her clothes and ran, as fast as she could, to her room. As soon as she left, he got into his pajamas wondering what happened. Did he rush things? He went to his bed; he laid awake for hours glancing at his ceiling.
Meanwhile, Hermione put her silk night gown on. She got a piece of parchment and her quill out and started to write the words of her favourite Muggle singer. Although it was hard to read, the song went like this:
Don't want to close the door, don't wanna give up on it
Don't wanna fight no more,
We'll find a way around it,
Where's the love we had, we can make it last,
Tell me what I gotta be, tell me what you wanna do
'Cause I can't live my life the way you want me to,
You know I can't go on living like we do
Do I have to cry for you?
What happened? Yes, I have to cry for him. He hates me, now. But I love him too much, I hope he doesn't hate me, she thought as she cried into her pillow.
Thursday came; some students went home for Christmas holidays. However, most of them stayed at Hogwarts for the Muggle Appreciation Ball tomorrow.
Hermione hadn't gotten any sleep. She had been up most of the night crying. She had thought that Draco hated her. When she fell asleep, she had a dream that he dumped her because she didn't go through with it. She owled him and told him to tell McGonagall that she wasn't feeling too well and that she wasn't going to the meeting. He owled her back and said that it was okay and he received a letter from her mother and father. The rest of the day, Hermione had to talk to someone. She wondered who she would talk to and she decided to talk to her Friday, at the Christmas lunch.
Draco didn't come back to the common room until well after 4:00 and he headed straight for his room to think. He wondered to himself who he was going to talk to. The answer had been staring him right in the face. Hermione hadn't talked to him since the dreadful end to the date last night. He still felt that he had rushed things. He just sat there admiring the watch she had given him. He loved it. Everytime he read the inscription, 'For My One True Love,' his eyes got very teary. He was so upset and he felt very lonely. He decided to talk to Harry Potter. Yes, Draco Malfoy, was going to talk to Harry Potter about his problem with his best friend. He sent Harry an owl. It said:
Harry,
I just wanted to ask you if I could talk to you at the Christmas lunch tomorrow at the end of the Slytherin table. Meet me at one o'clock. This is urgent.
Draco
* * *
At lunch, Draco went down to eat and meet Harry for their talk. He had done a lot of pondering of how he was going to tell Harry what happened Wednesday night. He met up with Harry at the end of the Slytherin table.
"What's wrong? Where's Hermione? Wow! You have short spiked hair! I thought I'd never see the day you cut your hair." Harry asked, trying not to sound worried, but the expression on Draco's made Harry think his voice had indeed, sounded worried.
"T-thanks. But, we need to talk about Hermione and myself," he said, carefully and Harry acknowledged this by nodding. "We went on a date the other day. When we got back, I invited her to my room. We ... er ... made out for a while," with this Draco went redder then a tomato, "and we ... started to undress each other. And we almost ... did 'it' Harry. For the past 2 days, she's been ignoring me. How am I going to take her to the ball tonight? I feel like I rushed things. Did I rush things?"
"No," Harry announced, plainly with no expression in his voice. "Look at you and her. You guys are dating. You used to hate each other and now you both have changed. You are two teenagers in love. I just think you wanted to go to the next level, that's all that is. It's really natural to feel that way," he reassured him.
"I really feel like I rushed things though; she wasn't ready. It's all my fault. She probably hates me now," Draco said, putting his head on the table. "She's the love of my life Harry. You don't know what I feel towards her. In the last 2 days, I have never felt more lonely then any other time in my life. And it is killing me slowly."
"Draco, please listen. It's not your fault. Do you know why she said no?" Harry questioned. Draco looked at him and shook his head. "For a female, there is a chance that if she has sex, that she may become pregnant. And for two 17 year olds, that is a HUGE responsibility. And I think, she didn't want that chance of bringing another life in this world, at such a young age. It's Hermione. When she's ready, she'll let you know."
"So, now what do I do? She probably hates me and cringes at the site of me. I didn't show you the watch she gave me did I?" Draco asked, handing it to Harry. "She gave it to me on Wednesday. Beautiful isn't it? Not as bea ...." Draco stopped.
"Draco, the answer is right here!" Harry said, happily banging his knee on the table. Draco looked at him in a puzzled manner. " OUCH! Look at the inscription 'For My One True Love,' it says it all. You two love each other and something like this, should strengthen your relationship," Harry said.
"So, I should go and talk to her?" Draco said, a little bit more cheerfully.
"No, Draco. You shouldn't talk to her," Harry said, scarcastically. He merely nodded and moved his hands toward the door. Draco got the signal and took the watch back from Harry.
"See you later! And Harry ... Thanks! Thanks a lot!" Draco said, as he ran towards the Head's Common room.
Meanwhile, Hermione was talking to Ginny about the other nights events.
"I dunno what got into me Ginny. I wanted to do it, but I panicked. I really do love him and I let him down. He probably hates me now. I'm so stupid. This is all my fault. If I had just gone through with it, we wouldn't be in this mess in the first place," Hermione voiced loudly, as tears filled her brown eyes.
"Hermione, how do you figure it to be your fault? It's that one possibility ... the one possibility that can change the rest of your life. It is the possibility of becoming pregnant. For two 17 year old, it is a big responsibility that could mess up your future plans," Ginny conveyed, hoping that Hermione knew, she was behind her one-hundred percent of the way.
"It's my fault because I said no. I said no to something that he really wanted," she cried.
"He wanted sex. I don't think he realized what could have happened that night. A lot could have happened. I don't think a smart girl like you, would want to jeopardize what you have going for yourself. You have a lot going for yourself, Hermione. And you know that," Ginny said, thoughtfully.
"I guess your right. A baby is a big responsibility and I would be jeopardizing a lot. Now what do I do? He probably won't talk to me and still hate me," Hermione said.
"Hermione, if Draco Malfoy hated you ... would he have given you that beautiful locket that says 'Love Lasts Forever?' In that locket, remains your answer," Ginny said, looking quite pleased with herself.
"Your right. I have to talk to him," she said, crying her eyes out. She left the Gryffindor common room and set off for the Head's common room to find Draco.
A/N: I'm not going to continue the story. I want more people to review. Tell me what you think. I don't want to waste my time doing this story and not get any reviews.
AN: I hope you liked chapter 6!! This, my friends, is a looooooooong chapter! Actually, it seemed endless, so, I had to make it into 2 chapters! Lots of kissing and mushy stuff! lol! Enjoy! R&R!
Chapter 7: Good Date or Bad Date?
The next day, Hermione woke up. Draco had left. She got dressed and walked to her dresser so she could brush her hair. She sat down in front of the mirror. She admired the locket. She had not taken it off; it was on her for the past 4 days. She loved it. It was one of her most prized possessions. She grabbed it and kissed it softly. When she was done, she headed for the common room.
"A letter came from McGonagall," Draco said walking to Hermione and kissed her cheek softly. She took the letter and read it.
Dear Mr. Malfoy and Ms.Granger,
For the next week, you do not have to go to class, as there will be a lot of preparation each day for the dance on Friday. You will be helping the teachers. On Monday, please meet me in my Transfiguration class at 10:00.
Professor McGonagall
"Wow! We get the week off!" Hermione said.
"Um... I asked Professor McGonagall if I could take you on a date to the Witches Café ..." he started but Hermione jumped in.
"That very fancy one?"
"Yeah, that one! And she said that we could go! I made arrangements for 8:00 this Wednesday. You can dress fancy ... robes aren't necessary. It's dinner and ...." Draco said, he wasn't going to tell her the last part. She nodded then said ...
"I'm not wearing the same dress as Friday though."
"Dammit!" Draco said kissing her on the cheek. She told him that she was wearing something else that was similar but not the same. The next 2 hours went by and they talked about Muggle music and their favourite songs. They also talked about favourite childhood Christmas' and what their favourite memory was. At 9:45, they set off for the Transfiguration room.
They stopped in front of McGonagall office to hear her say ...
"That is out of my control Lucius. I cannot tell Draco to stop dating Ms. Granger. It is his decision."
"Fine Minerva. I must leave now," Lucius said, walking towards the door. He got to the door and saw Draco holding Hermione's hand. "Disgusting Draco. Dating someone like ... her," he added. Hermione felt a cold shiver run down her spine.
"Mr. Malfoy, I do not care ..." but she stopped. She looked hard into his eyes. They were staring at ...
"A locket? Who gave it to you?" Lucius asked grabbing the locket with his fist.
"No one," she said, grabbing his forearm. He released the fist and the locket.
"I gave it to her ..." Draco said confidently. Draco seemed to read his fathers mind. "I gave it to her because..." he turned and faced Hermione and grabbed her other hand. "I love her." Professor McGonagall walked towards the door. Lucius' face curled in disgust.
"Do you now?" he yelled. "Do you know what this could do to my reputation? The Malfoy name?" Draco let go of Hermione's hand and faced his father.
"Is everything about your reputation? What about the other things in life? Love? Friendship? Laughter? Happiness? Do these mean nothing to you?" Draco yelled back. Hermione and McGonagall stared at each other looking very nervous. "I used to be like you father. I used to be rude, selfish and heartless. But then ..." his voice calmed as he said, "I realized there was more to life then that. I got to know Hermione ... I fell in love with her. What are you going to do about that? I was so rude to her for 6 years. I called her thousands of names. You know what? True feelings aren't things to hide. I love her, Dad and I don't care if you like. I've learned my lesson. I think that it is time you learn yours." Lucius was stunned. He swallowed his pride and said nothing. He gave Draco cut eye and left. Hermione had tears in her eyes. She held them back so McGonagall wouldn't see.
"Well, on a lighter note," McGonagall said, trying not to look worried. "Ms. Granger are you alright?" She had seen Hermione wiping the tears from her eyes. Draco ran over and hugged her tightly. McGonagall could see that they were both crying and said that they could come in when they were ready. She walked in and sat down.
"Draco? What happened?"
"My father needed a wake up call. He got it. Now, I'm seriously worried about your safety now ... I think that was a bad idea," he said, crying also. Hermione told him that that was not a bad idea or mistake she said that it was very brave. After a few minutes they walked in the classroom. They had stopped crying and were ready to work. They went to the 2 front seats were McGonagall's desk was.
"Now, before we start, I would like to ask you, Ms. Granger if I may see your locket," McGonagall asked walking towards her.. Hermione nodded and opened the locket for her. She saw the picture of Hermione and Draco. She read the inscription "Love Lasts Forever" and she started to cry.
"Professor, are you alright?" Draco asked, hesitantly.
"I'm alright, Mr. Malfoy. I just think that it is so amazing ... Two people come from different houses and they fall in love. I think that it is wonderful. You two are an inspiration to everyone." Draco and Hermione blushed. They weren't embarrassed. They had no idea that they were inspirational.
"Professor, I just wanted to say that true feelings aren't things to hide ... even to people who don't want to hear it or admit it," Draco said softly, for a second time.
The next 2 hours, they discussed many things. Hermione was put to work. She had to fill out order forms and Draco sent them with owls. They were finally done and left for the common room. They reached the common room and Hermione said ...
"Draco, that was so brave of you! You told your father that you loved me. You taught him a lesson on life! I love you!"
"I have no idea what came over me. I surprised myself. But it felt good to finally get that off my chest. He really did need a wake up call and I was just hoping that person to wake him up wasn't me ... but it was me," he answered.
"I was so scared when he grabbed the locket. I was scared that he would rip it off my neck and break it," Hermione said. "I want to let you know, I got an owl from my Mom the other day ... and... she and my Dad want to meet you. I'm sorry I didn't tell you earlier but my Mom knows we are dating and everything that you've done for me," she added, as a big smile crossed her face.
"Me too! I want to meet your Mom and Dad. I've told my Mom everything also! She told me that my Dad would be angry if he found out. She told me to protect you. And I told her that I was already protecting you ... with my life." He leaned in slowly and kissed her lips. I'm so scared now, he thought, what have I done? He's gonna hurt her now ... I can feel it.
* * *
The next day was Tuesday, and they met McGonagall. They had received the owls back from yesterday. Today they had to send the money to the stores. It took a lot longer then expected. They said good-bye to Professor McGonagall, who seemed to be uptight and not herself. Neither of them said anything but Hermione thought that it was about what happened yesterday.
For the rest of the day, they read owls. Draco, got an owl from his mother as did Hermione. His letter said:
Draco,
Your Father came home yesterday, very angry. He said that you were with Hermione, holding her hand. He said that he was disgusted and he said you yelled at him. Normally, I would tell you that's wrong, but in this case I'm defending you. I think you have a better point then he does. When I told him that I had known about this, he hit me with that stupid cane of his and he left the house. I'm okay, so please don't worry. I just have a scratch that's all nothing serious. I have no idea where he is. Your father was already hot headed and he doesn't like to be challenged especially by his son. Please know, I'm on your side and just remember son, I'm always here for you. I have owled her mother and she seems like a wonderful lady. We are both looking out to see if we, together, can find him. Just look out and be aware of where you are. I want you to watch out for Hermione and continue to care and love her. You are doing a wonderful job! I have told you this already, I would like to meet the girl who swept my son off of his feet!
Sending all my Love,
Mom
PS: Good Luck on the date tomorrow! I do hope she liked the locket. Her mother said she hasn't taken it off since you gave it to her!!! She said that it was one of her most prized possessions!! If you are going to write to me, I'll be at Mrs. Granger's house. She invited me to stay at her house for a while until this is all sorted out. She thought that that was safer. Your father doesn't know where they live so it is safe.
Mom
Draco re-read the letter to make sure he read the part where his father hit his mother.
"My Father, hit my Mom? What the hell is he thinking?" Draco said, as tears flooded his eyes.
"Draco, I'm so sorry," Hermione said, grabbing him and hugging him. He cried on her shoulder.
"It's not your fault. This is all my ..." he started but Hermione interrupted.
"Draco, it's not your fault either. I think you are brave and strong. I know it takes a lot to make you cry and I know that you are hurting with that news, but she'll be okay. She said so herself. And she's on the look out for your dad and my mom is looking too," Hermione said, looking on the bright side.
"I guess your right. But, I'm still worried for you and now ... my mom. You have no idea what my dad is capable of doing. When he puts his mind to something, he will accomplish it and he can be very violent," Draco said, heavy hearted. "Read the letter from your mom, Hermione."
She took the letter off the table and opened it. It said:
Hermione,
I do hope that you are okay. Mrs. Malfoy sent me an owl and she told me what happened. She seems like a wonderful person; she seems the opposite of Lucius. I just want you to take care of yourself and Draco. He seems like a wonderful person! She also told me what he said to his father. Her and myself are writing regularly to try and to find his father. Please don't worry about her, she said that when she was hit, she struggled and it was nothing serious. Her and I are friends and both seem to think it's best to stay together and let nothing happens to you or Draco. I owled her to come and stay with your Father and I. I think that it will be safer that way. He would never come to where we live so it works out fairly well. Mrs. Malfoy and I are going to be sending regular owls to yourself and Draco, just so we know nothing is wrong. We would like you and him to write back and sign your names together. Be aware of everything around you and don't go wandering around after dark. I have mentioned this time and time again, I would like to meet Draco. He seems like a wonderful young man. Tell him he can come over to our house during the summer, if he can get the time off. I told his mother that you loves the locket! I told her you wouldn't take it off! I'll write to you when his mother gets here.
With all my Love,
Mom
PS: Good Luck on the date tomorrow! I hope you have a good time!
Mom
"That was sweet of your mother to invite my mother to your house for a while," Draco said.
"I'm just really glad that your mother is going to be safe for a while," Hermione said, still hugging Draco. The rest of Tuesday was spent in Draco's room. Hermione thought that it was time to comfort him. He was in distress and wouldn't stop crying. He was still upset about the letter that was sent. He kept saying his mother was in danger and something was going to happen. Hermione reminded him that his father didn't know where her parents lived.
It was well into the night, when Hermione woke up to find herself sleeping in the same bed as Draco. It's almost every night we fall asleep in the same bed; it's really romantic, she thought. She soon fell asleep in his arms, again.
Wednesday morning came quite fast. Draco, woke up Hermione with a kiss on the cheek.
"Wake up sleeping beauty!" he said. "We have to go and meet with McGonagall pretty soon!" he added, softly. Hermione got up and told him that she would meet in the common room. Hermione never told Draco, she was so excited about the date tonight. She went to her room and put jeans and a tank top on. She went to the common room to meet Draco. They left holding hands. The only thing the Hermione could think about was the date tonight. It was going to take her a while get ready. The dress that she picked was beautiful. It was one of the two that her parents bought her, for her birthday, before she left for Hogwarts.
The meeting had taken a lot longer then expected. The meeting had lasted 7 hours making last minute changes and plans. They had to travel to Hogsmede to pick up everything for set up, Friday morning. They had more to pick up tomorrow.
They reached the common room and Hermione said good-bye and that she would see Draco in 3 hours.
"I can't wait to see you later!" he said, kissing her on the lips.
Three hours later, Draco waited nervously for Hermione outside the Witches Café. He went and got his hair cut. Now, his hair was spiked up at the front. He wore a black suit with a silk green top and a silk silver tie. A carriage pulled up and stopped in front of Draco. The door opened and his mouth dropped.
Hermione came out with a very big baby pink dress with a silk shawl. Her hair was in a curled ponytail with babies breath in the curls.
"Hermione ... you ... you ... WOW! Words have failed me!" Draco said.
"I've never seen you with short hair or in a suit! You look really hot!" Hermione said, making herself and Draco blush.
"You look pretty hot yourself," he said. Draco couldn't wipe the smile off his face. He seems so happy, thought Hermione; this is the happiest that he's been since Monday. Draco put his arm out and escorted Hermione into the Café. She put her hand on his arm and they walked inside the Café. "You really love that locket don't you?"
"I really do! It is so beautiful!" she answered. They walked in and a witch showed them to their private booth over looking the lake and the endless snow covered hills. The table was lit by a single vanilla smelling candle. There were white roses in the middle of the table. Draco waited until Hermione sat down before sitting down himself. "Such a gentlemen!" she said, smiling brightly. "I've got something for you," she added. She pulled a box out of her hand bag and handed it to him.
He took the box from her, still smiling. "Thank you!" he said, as their dinner arrived. He opened the box wondering what it was. He opened it and saw a silver watch with Roman Numerals on it. Around the edges was an inscription. It said, 'For My One True Love.' "Hermione, this is beautiful!" he said, putting it on his left hand. He then leaned over the table and kissed Hermione. "I hope you have fun tonight! Hermione, I want to be honest with you ... ever since the year started and we got to be Head Boy and Head Girl together ... and after that special night last month, when I ... er ... confessed my feelings toward you, I've been so happy. You've changed me. I used to be rude and selfish but you always saw the best in me. You were always the one to look on the positive side. I wanted to thank you for helping me see the other half... the good half. I love you and I don't know where I would be if we hadn't started to date," he said, wiping the tears coming down Hermione's cheek. "You mean the world to me. You've made me a better person. I know that your scared about the thing with my dad and everything but you've been such an influence in my life. Since the beginning of the year, I liked you and I was scared that you didn't. I kept that to myself. I know that being rude to you wasn't the best way to show. But, we all make mistakes. I want to apologize for that. I want this night to make up for all those names and for the times I made your life miserable."
"Draco, I love you too! I don't know where I would be without you!" she said, smiling and crying. When they were done dinner, a slow song came on when he asked ...
"May I have this dance, Miss?" he asked, getting up and going to Hermione; he gave her, his hand.
"Yes, I would love to dance!" she said, getting up and grabbing his hand. They walked together to the dance floor. They started to dance slowly; they danced quietly for a few songs. Draco was the first to speak.
"May I ask you something?" he asked.
"Yes!" she said, kissing his cheek softly.
"Do you see us getting married? And please, be honest," he asked.
"I do see us getting married but with one obstacle ..." she said, hesitantly.
"My dad. I know. I wish that he would see you the way I see you Hermione. I really want him to see what a wonderful person you are and how much you mean to me," he said. For the rest of the night, they discussed what their wedding would be like. The night was filled with laughter and love. But, unfortunately, it had to end. They walked outside to the carriage that brought them back to Hogwarts. They got out and walked to the common room.
"Do you want to sleep in my room tonight?" Draco asked, politely. Hermione kissed him, passionately.
"Answer your question?" Draco nodded. They walked up the spiralled stair case to his room. They got in and they walked straight for the bed. They were on his bed. They started to kiss. His tongue explored her mouth and hers explored his. They started to undress each other. They were in their under garments before Hermione realized what was going on.
"Draco, w-what is going on?" she asked, nervously.
"We're going to you know ... if you want to," he said to her. She pushed him off of herself. She couldn't go through with it.
"D-Draco, I'm ... so sorry. I can't go through with this," she said, panic stricken. She grabbed her clothes and ran, as fast as she could, to her room. As soon as she left, he got into his pajamas wondering what happened. Did he rush things? He went to his bed; he laid awake for hours glancing at his ceiling.
Meanwhile, Hermione put her silk night gown on. She got a piece of parchment and her quill out and started to write the words of her favourite Muggle singer. Although it was hard to read, the song went like this:
Don't want to close the door, don't wanna give up on it
Don't wanna fight no more,
We'll find a way around it,
Where's the love we had, we can make it last,
Tell me what I gotta be, tell me what you wanna do
'Cause I can't live my life the way you want me to,
You know I can't go on living like we do
Do I have to cry for you?
What happened? Yes, I have to cry for him. He hates me, now. But I love him too much, I hope he doesn't hate me, she thought as she cried into her pillow.
Thursday came; some students went home for Christmas holidays. However, most of them stayed at Hogwarts for the Muggle Appreciation Ball tomorrow.
Hermione hadn't gotten any sleep. She had been up most of the night crying. She had thought that Draco hated her. When she fell asleep, she had a dream that he dumped her because she didn't go through with it. She owled him and told him to tell McGonagall that she wasn't feeling too well and that she wasn't going to the meeting. He owled her back and said that it was okay and he received a letter from her mother and father. The rest of the day, Hermione had to talk to someone. She wondered who she would talk to and she decided to talk to her Friday, at the Christmas lunch.
Draco didn't come back to the common room until well after 4:00 and he headed straight for his room to think. He wondered to himself who he was going to talk to. The answer had been staring him right in the face. Hermione hadn't talked to him since the dreadful end to the date last night. He still felt that he had rushed things. He just sat there admiring the watch she had given him. He loved it. Everytime he read the inscription, 'For My One True Love,' his eyes got very teary. He was so upset and he felt very lonely. He decided to talk to Harry Potter. Yes, Draco Malfoy, was going to talk to Harry Potter about his problem with his best friend. He sent Harry an owl. It said:
Harry,
I just wanted to ask you if I could talk to you at the Christmas lunch tomorrow at the end of the Slytherin table. Meet me at one o'clock. This is urgent.
Draco
* * *
At lunch, Draco went down to eat and meet Harry for their talk. He had done a lot of pondering of how he was going to tell Harry what happened Wednesday night. He met up with Harry at the end of the Slytherin table.
"What's wrong? Where's Hermione? Wow! You have short spiked hair! I thought I'd never see the day you cut your hair." Harry asked, trying not to sound worried, but the expression on Draco's made Harry think his voice had indeed, sounded worried.
"T-thanks. But, we need to talk about Hermione and myself," he said, carefully and Harry acknowledged this by nodding. "We went on a date the other day. When we got back, I invited her to my room. We ... er ... made out for a while," with this Draco went redder then a tomato, "and we ... started to undress each other. And we almost ... did 'it' Harry. For the past 2 days, she's been ignoring me. How am I going to take her to the ball tonight? I feel like I rushed things. Did I rush things?"
"No," Harry announced, plainly with no expression in his voice. "Look at you and her. You guys are dating. You used to hate each other and now you both have changed. You are two teenagers in love. I just think you wanted to go to the next level, that's all that is. It's really natural to feel that way," he reassured him.
"I really feel like I rushed things though; she wasn't ready. It's all my fault. She probably hates me now," Draco said, putting his head on the table. "She's the love of my life Harry. You don't know what I feel towards her. In the last 2 days, I have never felt more lonely then any other time in my life. And it is killing me slowly."
"Draco, please listen. It's not your fault. Do you know why she said no?" Harry questioned. Draco looked at him and shook his head. "For a female, there is a chance that if she has sex, that she may become pregnant. And for two 17 year olds, that is a HUGE responsibility. And I think, she didn't want that chance of bringing another life in this world, at such a young age. It's Hermione. When she's ready, she'll let you know."
"So, now what do I do? She probably hates me and cringes at the site of me. I didn't show you the watch she gave me did I?" Draco asked, handing it to Harry. "She gave it to me on Wednesday. Beautiful isn't it? Not as bea ...." Draco stopped.
"Draco, the answer is right here!" Harry said, happily banging his knee on the table. Draco looked at him in a puzzled manner. " OUCH! Look at the inscription 'For My One True Love,' it says it all. You two love each other and something like this, should strengthen your relationship," Harry said.
"So, I should go and talk to her?" Draco said, a little bit more cheerfully.
"No, Draco. You shouldn't talk to her," Harry said, scarcastically. He merely nodded and moved his hands toward the door. Draco got the signal and took the watch back from Harry.
"See you later! And Harry ... Thanks! Thanks a lot!" Draco said, as he ran towards the Head's Common room.
Meanwhile, Hermione was talking to Ginny about the other nights events.
"I dunno what got into me Ginny. I wanted to do it, but I panicked. I really do love him and I let him down. He probably hates me now. I'm so stupid. This is all my fault. If I had just gone through with it, we wouldn't be in this mess in the first place," Hermione voiced loudly, as tears filled her brown eyes.
"Hermione, how do you figure it to be your fault? It's that one possibility ... the one possibility that can change the rest of your life. It is the possibility of becoming pregnant. For two 17 year old, it is a big responsibility that could mess up your future plans," Ginny conveyed, hoping that Hermione knew, she was behind her one-hundred percent of the way.
"It's my fault because I said no. I said no to something that he really wanted," she cried.
"He wanted sex. I don't think he realized what could have happened that night. A lot could have happened. I don't think a smart girl like you, would want to jeopardize what you have going for yourself. You have a lot going for yourself, Hermione. And you know that," Ginny said, thoughtfully.
"I guess your right. A baby is a big responsibility and I would be jeopardizing a lot. Now what do I do? He probably won't talk to me and still hate me," Hermione said.
"Hermione, if Draco Malfoy hated you ... would he have given you that beautiful locket that says 'Love Lasts Forever?' In that locket, remains your answer," Ginny said, looking quite pleased with herself.
"Your right. I have to talk to him," she said, crying her eyes out. She left the Gryffindor common room and set off for the Head's common room to find Draco.
A/N: I'm not going to continue the story. I want more people to review. Tell me what you think. I don't want to waste my time doing this story and not get any reviews.