A/N: Hey Everyone! Thanks very much for reviewing!
This is the chapter of the Ball! I hope you're all excited! It's going to be a fairly long chapter, so that's the reason if you were wondering about the wait. I wanted to make it extra special for you!
Pyroprincess4rmeverwood: Thanks for reviewing and I'm pleased you like it.
Slytherin-Gryffindor gal: Thanks! Glad you liked the lava lamps thing!
Bubbles: THANKS:D
Deadburningflame: Thanks for saying I'm a great writer! I really appreciate it!
Sophiethedevil (): Umm, ok, thanks for the advice
Winterspirit: THANKS:D Glad you liked the simile!
Queen of Greenland: OH MY GOSH! You totally ROCK! Thank you for your idea! It's brilliant; I'm totally using it! As I said before YOU ROCK! Thanks for reviewing and the idea!
SubliminalMsgs (): Thanks for reviewing! I'm pleased you have given me an idea. I'll probably use it in further chapters! Glad you like this!
Beach_Babi(): Thanks for the review. The moment has come, so you don't have to wait any longer!
Cozzagirl16(): Great that you like it. They'll get together, don't worry. I'm just waiting for the right moment.
PrincessAngelz: Lavendar is evil, I know: They will get together but I was just waiting for the right moment. It won't be too long! Thanks for reviewing!
D-E-V-L-41: Thanks for the idea; I might use it in further chapters!
Deadburningflame(): Thanks for the review and story recommendation!
Oooo: Yeah, she went a bit weird, didn't she!
Princessdza: Thanks so much! I'm pleased you love it show much!
Kole17: Thanks so much as usual. A lot of people can't wait for the ball, and the moment has arrived!
Chapter Ten: The Grand Ball
The chapter is a tribute to my best friend, Stacey. TO STONKEY-FROM HONKEY
---Draco's POV---
It was the day of the ball. Hermione was busy as ever, bustling around preparing for the big night.
She had blown up hundreds of balloons and made Draco tie them to the walls. She had Blaise Zambini decorating the place with colorful streamers.
All though Draco disliked decorations and things, he had to confess the Great Hall looked absolutely dazzling.
The balloons were in just the right places, and the streamers gave the hall a great look. Hermione was dressed in a grey Rusty jacket and a black mini skirt. Her hair was in a ponytail, and she was wearing her 'thinking look' constantly.
After quite some time, the Great Hall was finally done. Hermione beamed at the creation. It was just like a fairy tale, but better. Draco couldn't help but smile at her. He hated those times when no matter how much you tried to force it away you just had to smile.
Draco and Hermione shut the doors to the Great Hall together. Nobody was supposed to see it until the moment arrived. Hermione cast spells all over the doors, so when anyone tried to enter, they would simply forget what they were doing, and do something else. Draco thought it was a good idea himself.
It was getting late, and closer to the ball. Draco found himself wondering what Pansy would look like. He felt like being sick. He could just see her in the most horrible outfit in the whole room, laughing sickly.
It was getting closer and closer to the ball, and most of the Slytherin boys were getting ready.
Crabbe and Goyle were dressed in the same outfit (they claimed it was an accident.) The horrid red suit hurt Draco's eyes, and Crabbe and Goyle's sickening grins made him laugh.
'Like it, Draco?' Crabbe grunted.
Draco stifled a laugh, and gave them a quick nod, before heading on to his room.
Draco took a quick shower to freshen up. He then let his hair fall freely in his face, and climbed into his clothes for the night. They were long black pants, a white top with bow tie and a black jacket. He looked hot as always.
He really didn't know what to expect. The night was the hot topic at Hogwarts, and Draco had to admit he was getting quite sick of hearing about it. He was excited at first, but now he was pretty dull, considering he had to go with Pansy, and as far as he was concerned she was an ugly cow.
After a while Draco sat on his bed and read a book. He really wasn't in the mood for anything else.
---Hermione's POV—
Hermione had decorated the hall earlier, and now felt it was time for her and Ginny to prepare themselves. Hermione was very excited.
They decided to get ready in Hermione's room since they wouldn't be disturbed and had a large space.
After lots of work, and an even bigger amount of gossip the girls were fixed up for the ball. They beamed at each other. They both looked extremely beautiful. The ball was to start at 7:45 and end at 10:45. At that moment it was 7:30, and the girls were completing their look, adding a bit of makeup here and there.
Hermione and Ginny made their way to the Great Hall, nervous but excited.
---Draco's POV---
Draco had arrived with Pansy on his arm. She looked worse then he had expected.
She was wearing a white dress with a floral design around the V-neck. The straps were very thick while the dress itself was very short. It ended way above her knees. Her hairy legs were an awful sight, but they were nothing compared to her cleavage. She proudly told him she had trimmed the v-neck magically.
Draco swore he was going to be sick. He decided then and there he definitely wasn't going to go anywhere near her for the rest if the night. Suddenly Pansy went green, and ran out of the hall. Hermione and Ginny's trick must have been working.
At that very moment Hermione Granger and Ginny Weasley walked through the entrance. They exchanged a smile as they realized their trick was working.
Hermione was wearing a strapless white dress. (A/N you can view the dress Hermione is wearing at http://www.pf757.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/ab/wagwscene.html it's the third and fourth from the bottom.) She was wearing divine shoes and she had on exactly the right amount of makeup.
Her hair was left out in soft curls. She was wearing a tiara and looked absolutely stunning. (A/N You can view Hermione's hair it's the third one from the top.)
Seamus looked like he was about to faint, but took Hermione's arm and lead her further into the hall. Draco couldn't take his eyes off her. She was so beautiful.
He also noticed that Ginny Weasley looked fairly good. She was wearing a midnight blue dress (A/N: View it at http://www.smpte.org.au/industrynews50.asp)
Draco seated himself, as Pansy obviously wasn't coming back in a hurry.
Dumbledore gave the announcements and thanked the head boy and girl for organizing the night.
Even though Draco wasn't having the best time, he had to confess that it was going fantastic. Everyone was having the time of his or her lives. Hermione had smiled at him on various occasions, which kept up his happiness.
She didn't appear to be having the greatest time either. Seamus seemed to be treating her rather roughly, and wasn't at all a good dancer. After a strained dance Hermione approached Draco.
'Hi, enjoying yourself?' She asked excitedly.
'Yeah, it's all right,' Draco answered.
He was staring into her dark brown eyes in amazement. He was trying to overcome the urge to sweep her off her feet.
Draco was usually a ladies man, but with Hermione he lost his ability to string two words together.
'Umm, Hermione, do you want to dance?' Draco asked before she had a chance to disappear again.
'I'd be delighted,' she smiled in return.
Just as 'The Voice Within (Christina Agulira)' began Draco took Hermione's hand and led her onto the dance floor.
He pulled her close and they danced gracefully as astounded Hogwarts students watched.
Who would have thought? Arch enemies Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger dancing together and for once at total peace.
Lavendar was standing next to Ron, her lips pursed and her arms crossed. She was no doubt wearing the dress and shoes Hermione had picked out for herself.
Draco thought Lavendar looked all right, but she was definitely no match for Hermione. She had an extremely jealous look on her face, as did Harry. Despite his little outburst Draco knew Harry had an everlasting thing for Hermione. Draco didn't blame him even though he wanted Hermione all to himself.
Hermione's face was on Draco's chest. She could hear his heart beating quickly. She had him captivated, and she knew it. The funny part was she felt exactly the same way.
At the end of the song she stared up into Draco's eyes. They were still steely grey, but there was something more comforting only Hermione could see in them.
He stared down into her dark brown eyes. They were like pools of mud inviting Draco to jump into them. They seemed to be getting darker as the years flew by.
At this moment the whole of Hogwarts were watching the couple, too shocked to say a word. Draco's peripheral vision let him see a very angry Ron. He looked just as red as he had the day Harry was kicked off the Quidditch team due to a little fight.
Draco and Hermione's lips moved closer and closer until they finally brushed together. Draco and Hermione smiled as stunned students gasped. The next song came on, and Hermione and Draco left the floor.
She gave him a quick smile and rejoined Ginny, who was wearing a particularly huge smile.
'Hermione! You did it!' She smiled.
Hermione just nodded. She was proud of herself. Her and Ginny laughed as the next some came on. 'Hilary's Duff's So Yesterday.' Ginny was mouthing the chorus while wearing a dreamy look as Hermione giggled watching her. This was a good night.
---Hermione's POV---
Hermione had been having a great time at the ball. She had kissed none other then Draco Malfoy, and most students didn't like it.
Dean and Seamus had given her bad looks as had Harry and Ron. Worst of all was Lavendar who had shoved Hermione into the wall as she passed.
After a while Harry and Ron seemed unable to control their anger and dragged her out of the Great Hall when nobody was looking.
'Hermione!' Harry and Ron stormed in unison.
She turned her body around ready to stroll right back into the Great Hall, but Harry and Ron grabbed her shoulders, determined not to let her back inside.
'What is wrong with you? After all Malfoy has done to us!' Harry snapped viciously.
'Nothing is wrong with me! People change, Harry! He was never really that bad to us! When you think about it it was all a bit of childish rivalry!'
'Hermione, Harry got kicked off the QUIDDITCH team because of him! What about how Ginny got locked in the Chamber of Secrets?' Ron yelled.
'I'm not denying Draco was a bit of a bastard, but he was never that bad. He did get Harry kicked of the Quidditch team, but as for Ginny, that was Lucius's work, not Draco's!'
'So, you're telling me that if Voldemort suddenly turned 'good' you would want me to welcome him with open arms!' Harry snapped.
'Don't you dare turn this back on to Voldemort, Harry. Draco isn't anywhere NEAR that bad!' Hermione said calmly, screwing up her face. She didn't want to show that Harry was getting to her.
'I thought you'd be more precautious then this! I never thought you'd associate yourself in anyway with anyone who had anything to do with Voldemort!' Ron stormed.
'It's not like you've been oh so good lately, Ron! You dumped your best friend for a girl! Haven't you ever heard the saying, Girls walk in and out but friends stay forever?'
'I've heard the saying, Hermione, but you haven't exactly been acting like a friend lately, have you!' Ron sniffed.
'You know what, I don't care. If you can't accept Draco, then I don't want to fight with you about it. There's no use!'
'Fine!' they snapped, and the once Dream Team parted.
Hermione stalked back into the hall trying to hide her emotions. Although she hated Ron and Harry and this very moment, they were her childhood best friends, and deep down respected them a lot.
From when they saved her from the troll in first year, Hermione knew they were meant to be best friends forever, and this fight was just a flaw that could be fixed.
She wiped a tear from her eye and sat next to Ginny to explain what had happened. Ginny just nodded. There wasn't really anything she could do.
Hermione got up and followed Ginny to a more private part of the hall. She then strode off in search for Harry and Ron.
She returned with a slight smile on her face a few minutes later.
'They said they are sorry about how harsh they were on you, but they have no regrets. If you want to be their friend you have to agree to never talk about Draco around them, or give out any personal information about them to Draco,' Ginny sighed.
'Pathetic,' Hermione spat, and jumped off her seat to go and find something worthwhile.
Neville and Luna were standing nearby, so Hermione decided to see how their night was going.
'Hi Neville! Hi Luna! How are you liking the ball?' Hermione asked pleasantly.
Neville gave Hermione a frightful look, backing away. He seemed to get together enough strength to say one word. 'Fine.'
'Neville, what's wrong?' Hermione asked cautiously coming closer.
Neville backed away, his eyes full of fright. Luna was staring Hermione down, a stern look on her face.
'You know perfectly well what's wrong!' Luna droned. 'Kissing Malfoy like that! After all that's been going on between you, and all of his connections with Voldemort! I thought you were better then this Hermione. What about Harry? How do you think he feels, not to mention Neville and the rest of Hogwarts!'
'Luna, seriously it's not so bad. Draco isn't as awful as everyone makes out, you just have to get to know him better. Give him a chance?' Hermione sighed. Luna's face grew sterner. 'Please.' She whispered.
'Hermione, you're a nice girl. Why would you want to go and spoil it on a Malfoy? He doesn't deserve you!' Luna snapped.
'You don't understand! Nobody understands,' Hermione sniffed and turned to leave. Luna of all people!
It was that moment she realized this decision would leave her alone. All she would have were Draco and Ginny. They were great people, but she liked to have lots of friends. Hermione was growing more used to being alone, since she had been until she came to Hogwarts. She lived with her adopted family. They were loving and understanding, but they just had no idea about the magical world. Dating Draco was a risk she was becoming more willing to take, no matter how the saying went.
---Draco's POV---
All this time Draco had been around the corner from where Hermione stood, listening to her pleas. He didn't know if he wanted to put Hermione in this much trouble. Being around a Malfoy would leave her with nobody. They would only have each other and perhaps Ginny.
Draco was used to being alone. His father had never really treated him with any respect and these days his mother was nowhere to be seen. Crabbe and Goyle, his childhood cronies kept mainly to themselves these days. They were growing more and more stupid as the days went by. It was getting to the extent he couldn't have a conversation with him. The language they spoke was that of grunts and groans, a bit like a trolls, and Draco most definitely couldn't understand them.
Draco walked out just as Hermione turned to run out of the hall. He saw her tear streaked face and running mascara.
He expected her to start yelling at him. Telling him how much she hated him, but instead she ran straight into his arms.
Draco was taken quite aback, but he wrapped his arms around her anyway. She relaxed into his arms her body limp. After a while Hogwarts students realized what the couple were doing and stopped in their tracks.
What was happening? Hogwarts worst enemies were turning into some sort of relationship.
Ron had always been attention seeking, but on the night of the ball Ron took it one step too far. Lavendar and Ron exchanged cheeky looks, and then pulled each other closer and began making out then and there.
Luckily the younger years had left the ball early, like the rule had been for years, so only the sixth and seven years were left. Ron and Lavendar began to get all the attention, and Draco and Hermione broke apart to see what all the commotion was all about.
What met their eyes was truly a sight to see. Ginny stood open mouthed. Her brother was making a total fool of himself.
Harry had a bemused look on his face. What inspired this? He looked over at Hermione suspecting her, but he had known Hermione for years, and the look she was wearing told him she certainly didn't know anything about it.
Instead of the triumphant look she had on her face she had when she had slipped the Lust Potion into their food, Hermione had a totally puzzled loon on her face. One that told Harry she couldn't believe how much her friend had changed since she had got with Draco, and Ron got with Lavendar.
Hermione and Draco left the scene, glad that the attention had been turned off them. At least the awkward rumors to follow would be shared around a little bit more.
Hermione and Draco sat outside. They could still hear the noises coming from the hall. Hermione sat next to Draco and started out into the Forbidden Forest.
'Wouldn't it be nice just to run away into the forest whenever you felt sad, or angry or needed to search through your thoughts?' Hermione whispered.
'Hmm,' Draco replied.
'You'd have no worries in the world, just running in there, knowing that there were no other humans in there to disturb you.'
Draco pulled her even closer and they both got lost in their own thoughts.
Hermione's hair smelt like apples. Her soft curls were slowly turning back into Hermione's usually very bushy hair.
She had taken a quick nap that afternoon so she wouldn't be tired at the after party. It would be held in the heads common room and everyone in 6th and 7th year were invited.
After a while Hermione and Draco reentered the Great Hall. Most people were dancing, so Hermione and Draco felt they should join them.
Dumbledore thanked everyone once again and picked two lucky students to cut the balloons out of the ceiling. They were contained in a big net. Hermione and Ginny found each other and danced around in the balloons that were cut down from the ceiling. The lucky students were Meg Johns and Max Jacobs.
Ginny and Hermione tried to stamp on the balloons but their heels kept slipping off the balloons. They were literally everywhere. Students could barely be seen among the enormous mass of balloons.
After all the balloons were gone students began to reappear, and Dumbledore cleaned up the mess in a swish of his wand.
Hermione and Ginny parted. Hermione found Draco, and Ginny went to tell Ron something.
Dumbledore then announced this would be the last dance of the night, and his eyes twinkled as students sighed.
The song was almost over, and Hermione's eyes immediately went in search for Ginny. She was astounded to see Harry pulling her wrist towards the exit. Ginny was obviously struggling to break his grip on her.
Hermione pointed out the scene to Draco, and they followed Ginny and Harry until they were lead into a deserted classroom.
They both leaned forward so they could see inside the window.
What met their eyes was certainly a surprise.
You can change your life
(If you wanna)
You can change your clothes
(If you wanna)
If you change your mind
Well that's the way it goes
But I'm gonna keep your jeans
And your old black hat
('Cause I wanna)
They look good on me
You're never gonna get them back
At least not today, not today, not today 'cause...
If it's over let it go and
Come tomorrow it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
I'm just a bird that's already flown away
Laugh it off, let it go and
When you wake up it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
Haven't you heard that I'm gonna be okay?
(Okay)
You can say you're bored
(If you wanna)
You can act real tough
(If you wanna)
You can say you're torn
But I've heard enough
Thank you, you made my mind up for me
When you started to ignore me
Do you see a single tear?
It isn't gonna happen here
At least not today, not today, not today 'cause...
If it's over let it go and
Come tomorrow it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
I'm just a bird that's already flown away
Laugh it off, let it go and
When you wake up it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
Haven't you heard that I'm gonna be okay?
If you're over me,
I'm already over you
If it's all been done,
What is left to do?
How can you hang up if the line is dead?
If you wanna walk,
I'm a step ahead
If you're movin' on,
I'm already gone
If the light is off,
Then it isn't on
At least not today, not today, not today 'cause...
If it's over let it go and
Come tomorrow it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
I'm just a bird that's already flown away
Laugh it off, let it go and
When you wake up it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
Haven't you heard you're...So yesterday
(So yesterday)
If it's over let it go and
Come tomorrow it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
I'm just a bird that's already flown away
Laugh it off, let it go and
When you wake up it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
Haven't you heard that I'm gonna be okay?
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A/N: Cliffy^.^ I know I'm mean, but that chapter has gone for a long time! 12 word pages actually!
Lyrics: So Yesterday (Hilary Duff.) I'm sorry to all those Hilary lovers. This is a tribute to my best friend Stacey! You rock Stonkey! Please don't forget me! I'll never forget the miming you did. That was so funny!
Other tributes: Max Jacobs (he cut the ribbon in this chapter) you are one of my best friends! You rock too! I'll never forget you Maximus! (I know Jacobs is not your last name, I just wanted to protect your privacy.)
Meg Johns. Meggles, you rock too! (She was the other person who cut the ribbon.) You are the best! (I know Johns isn't your last name, same reason as above.)
If any of you are wondering about that those were my best Primary School Friends and unfortunately we got split up when High School came. I really miss my friends, especially you, Stonkey!
IMPORTANT: I AM NO LONGER GOING TO REPLY TO ALL OF THE REVIEWS BECAUSE IT TAKES A LONG TIME AND A LOT OF ROOM! I WILL ONLY REPLY TO SOME! PLEASE REVIEW ANYWAY, BECAUSE I PUT CHAPTERS UP FASTER!
R&R! I've been getting lots of reviews, but I'm greedy, and I want more! SO R&R peoples!
This is the chapter of the Ball! I hope you're all excited! It's going to be a fairly long chapter, so that's the reason if you were wondering about the wait. I wanted to make it extra special for you!
Pyroprincess4rmeverwood: Thanks for reviewing and I'm pleased you like it.
Slytherin-Gryffindor gal: Thanks! Glad you liked the lava lamps thing!
Bubbles: THANKS:D
Deadburningflame: Thanks for saying I'm a great writer! I really appreciate it!
Sophiethedevil (): Umm, ok, thanks for the advice
Winterspirit: THANKS:D Glad you liked the simile!
Queen of Greenland: OH MY GOSH! You totally ROCK! Thank you for your idea! It's brilliant; I'm totally using it! As I said before YOU ROCK! Thanks for reviewing and the idea!
SubliminalMsgs (): Thanks for reviewing! I'm pleased you have given me an idea. I'll probably use it in further chapters! Glad you like this!
Beach_Babi(): Thanks for the review. The moment has come, so you don't have to wait any longer!
Cozzagirl16(): Great that you like it. They'll get together, don't worry. I'm just waiting for the right moment.
PrincessAngelz: Lavendar is evil, I know: They will get together but I was just waiting for the right moment. It won't be too long! Thanks for reviewing!
D-E-V-L-41: Thanks for the idea; I might use it in further chapters!
Deadburningflame(): Thanks for the review and story recommendation!
Oooo: Yeah, she went a bit weird, didn't she!
Princessdza: Thanks so much! I'm pleased you love it show much!
Kole17: Thanks so much as usual. A lot of people can't wait for the ball, and the moment has arrived!
Chapter Ten: The Grand Ball
The chapter is a tribute to my best friend, Stacey. TO STONKEY-FROM HONKEY
---Draco's POV---
It was the day of the ball. Hermione was busy as ever, bustling around preparing for the big night.
She had blown up hundreds of balloons and made Draco tie them to the walls. She had Blaise Zambini decorating the place with colorful streamers.
All though Draco disliked decorations and things, he had to confess the Great Hall looked absolutely dazzling.
The balloons were in just the right places, and the streamers gave the hall a great look. Hermione was dressed in a grey Rusty jacket and a black mini skirt. Her hair was in a ponytail, and she was wearing her 'thinking look' constantly.
After quite some time, the Great Hall was finally done. Hermione beamed at the creation. It was just like a fairy tale, but better. Draco couldn't help but smile at her. He hated those times when no matter how much you tried to force it away you just had to smile.
Draco and Hermione shut the doors to the Great Hall together. Nobody was supposed to see it until the moment arrived. Hermione cast spells all over the doors, so when anyone tried to enter, they would simply forget what they were doing, and do something else. Draco thought it was a good idea himself.
It was getting late, and closer to the ball. Draco found himself wondering what Pansy would look like. He felt like being sick. He could just see her in the most horrible outfit in the whole room, laughing sickly.
It was getting closer and closer to the ball, and most of the Slytherin boys were getting ready.
Crabbe and Goyle were dressed in the same outfit (they claimed it was an accident.) The horrid red suit hurt Draco's eyes, and Crabbe and Goyle's sickening grins made him laugh.
'Like it, Draco?' Crabbe grunted.
Draco stifled a laugh, and gave them a quick nod, before heading on to his room.
Draco took a quick shower to freshen up. He then let his hair fall freely in his face, and climbed into his clothes for the night. They were long black pants, a white top with bow tie and a black jacket. He looked hot as always.
He really didn't know what to expect. The night was the hot topic at Hogwarts, and Draco had to admit he was getting quite sick of hearing about it. He was excited at first, but now he was pretty dull, considering he had to go with Pansy, and as far as he was concerned she was an ugly cow.
After a while Draco sat on his bed and read a book. He really wasn't in the mood for anything else.
---Hermione's POV—
Hermione had decorated the hall earlier, and now felt it was time for her and Ginny to prepare themselves. Hermione was very excited.
They decided to get ready in Hermione's room since they wouldn't be disturbed and had a large space.
After lots of work, and an even bigger amount of gossip the girls were fixed up for the ball. They beamed at each other. They both looked extremely beautiful. The ball was to start at 7:45 and end at 10:45. At that moment it was 7:30, and the girls were completing their look, adding a bit of makeup here and there.
Hermione and Ginny made their way to the Great Hall, nervous but excited.
---Draco's POV---
Draco had arrived with Pansy on his arm. She looked worse then he had expected.
She was wearing a white dress with a floral design around the V-neck. The straps were very thick while the dress itself was very short. It ended way above her knees. Her hairy legs were an awful sight, but they were nothing compared to her cleavage. She proudly told him she had trimmed the v-neck magically.
Draco swore he was going to be sick. He decided then and there he definitely wasn't going to go anywhere near her for the rest if the night. Suddenly Pansy went green, and ran out of the hall. Hermione and Ginny's trick must have been working.
At that very moment Hermione Granger and Ginny Weasley walked through the entrance. They exchanged a smile as they realized their trick was working.
Hermione was wearing a strapless white dress. (A/N you can view the dress Hermione is wearing at http://www.pf757.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/ab/wagwscene.html it's the third and fourth from the bottom.) She was wearing divine shoes and she had on exactly the right amount of makeup.
Her hair was left out in soft curls. She was wearing a tiara and looked absolutely stunning. (A/N You can view Hermione's hair it's the third one from the top.)
Seamus looked like he was about to faint, but took Hermione's arm and lead her further into the hall. Draco couldn't take his eyes off her. She was so beautiful.
He also noticed that Ginny Weasley looked fairly good. She was wearing a midnight blue dress (A/N: View it at http://www.smpte.org.au/industrynews50.asp)
Draco seated himself, as Pansy obviously wasn't coming back in a hurry.
Dumbledore gave the announcements and thanked the head boy and girl for organizing the night.
Even though Draco wasn't having the best time, he had to confess that it was going fantastic. Everyone was having the time of his or her lives. Hermione had smiled at him on various occasions, which kept up his happiness.
She didn't appear to be having the greatest time either. Seamus seemed to be treating her rather roughly, and wasn't at all a good dancer. After a strained dance Hermione approached Draco.
'Hi, enjoying yourself?' She asked excitedly.
'Yeah, it's all right,' Draco answered.
He was staring into her dark brown eyes in amazement. He was trying to overcome the urge to sweep her off her feet.
Draco was usually a ladies man, but with Hermione he lost his ability to string two words together.
'Umm, Hermione, do you want to dance?' Draco asked before she had a chance to disappear again.
'I'd be delighted,' she smiled in return.
Just as 'The Voice Within (Christina Agulira)' began Draco took Hermione's hand and led her onto the dance floor.
He pulled her close and they danced gracefully as astounded Hogwarts students watched.
Who would have thought? Arch enemies Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger dancing together and for once at total peace.
Lavendar was standing next to Ron, her lips pursed and her arms crossed. She was no doubt wearing the dress and shoes Hermione had picked out for herself.
Draco thought Lavendar looked all right, but she was definitely no match for Hermione. She had an extremely jealous look on her face, as did Harry. Despite his little outburst Draco knew Harry had an everlasting thing for Hermione. Draco didn't blame him even though he wanted Hermione all to himself.
Hermione's face was on Draco's chest. She could hear his heart beating quickly. She had him captivated, and she knew it. The funny part was she felt exactly the same way.
At the end of the song she stared up into Draco's eyes. They were still steely grey, but there was something more comforting only Hermione could see in them.
He stared down into her dark brown eyes. They were like pools of mud inviting Draco to jump into them. They seemed to be getting darker as the years flew by.
At this moment the whole of Hogwarts were watching the couple, too shocked to say a word. Draco's peripheral vision let him see a very angry Ron. He looked just as red as he had the day Harry was kicked off the Quidditch team due to a little fight.
Draco and Hermione's lips moved closer and closer until they finally brushed together. Draco and Hermione smiled as stunned students gasped. The next song came on, and Hermione and Draco left the floor.
She gave him a quick smile and rejoined Ginny, who was wearing a particularly huge smile.
'Hermione! You did it!' She smiled.
Hermione just nodded. She was proud of herself. Her and Ginny laughed as the next some came on. 'Hilary's Duff's So Yesterday.' Ginny was mouthing the chorus while wearing a dreamy look as Hermione giggled watching her. This was a good night.
---Hermione's POV---
Hermione had been having a great time at the ball. She had kissed none other then Draco Malfoy, and most students didn't like it.
Dean and Seamus had given her bad looks as had Harry and Ron. Worst of all was Lavendar who had shoved Hermione into the wall as she passed.
After a while Harry and Ron seemed unable to control their anger and dragged her out of the Great Hall when nobody was looking.
'Hermione!' Harry and Ron stormed in unison.
She turned her body around ready to stroll right back into the Great Hall, but Harry and Ron grabbed her shoulders, determined not to let her back inside.
'What is wrong with you? After all Malfoy has done to us!' Harry snapped viciously.
'Nothing is wrong with me! People change, Harry! He was never really that bad to us! When you think about it it was all a bit of childish rivalry!'
'Hermione, Harry got kicked off the QUIDDITCH team because of him! What about how Ginny got locked in the Chamber of Secrets?' Ron yelled.
'I'm not denying Draco was a bit of a bastard, but he was never that bad. He did get Harry kicked of the Quidditch team, but as for Ginny, that was Lucius's work, not Draco's!'
'So, you're telling me that if Voldemort suddenly turned 'good' you would want me to welcome him with open arms!' Harry snapped.
'Don't you dare turn this back on to Voldemort, Harry. Draco isn't anywhere NEAR that bad!' Hermione said calmly, screwing up her face. She didn't want to show that Harry was getting to her.
'I thought you'd be more precautious then this! I never thought you'd associate yourself in anyway with anyone who had anything to do with Voldemort!' Ron stormed.
'It's not like you've been oh so good lately, Ron! You dumped your best friend for a girl! Haven't you ever heard the saying, Girls walk in and out but friends stay forever?'
'I've heard the saying, Hermione, but you haven't exactly been acting like a friend lately, have you!' Ron sniffed.
'You know what, I don't care. If you can't accept Draco, then I don't want to fight with you about it. There's no use!'
'Fine!' they snapped, and the once Dream Team parted.
Hermione stalked back into the hall trying to hide her emotions. Although she hated Ron and Harry and this very moment, they were her childhood best friends, and deep down respected them a lot.
From when they saved her from the troll in first year, Hermione knew they were meant to be best friends forever, and this fight was just a flaw that could be fixed.
She wiped a tear from her eye and sat next to Ginny to explain what had happened. Ginny just nodded. There wasn't really anything she could do.
Hermione got up and followed Ginny to a more private part of the hall. She then strode off in search for Harry and Ron.
She returned with a slight smile on her face a few minutes later.
'They said they are sorry about how harsh they were on you, but they have no regrets. If you want to be their friend you have to agree to never talk about Draco around them, or give out any personal information about them to Draco,' Ginny sighed.
'Pathetic,' Hermione spat, and jumped off her seat to go and find something worthwhile.
Neville and Luna were standing nearby, so Hermione decided to see how their night was going.
'Hi Neville! Hi Luna! How are you liking the ball?' Hermione asked pleasantly.
Neville gave Hermione a frightful look, backing away. He seemed to get together enough strength to say one word. 'Fine.'
'Neville, what's wrong?' Hermione asked cautiously coming closer.
Neville backed away, his eyes full of fright. Luna was staring Hermione down, a stern look on her face.
'You know perfectly well what's wrong!' Luna droned. 'Kissing Malfoy like that! After all that's been going on between you, and all of his connections with Voldemort! I thought you were better then this Hermione. What about Harry? How do you think he feels, not to mention Neville and the rest of Hogwarts!'
'Luna, seriously it's not so bad. Draco isn't as awful as everyone makes out, you just have to get to know him better. Give him a chance?' Hermione sighed. Luna's face grew sterner. 'Please.' She whispered.
'Hermione, you're a nice girl. Why would you want to go and spoil it on a Malfoy? He doesn't deserve you!' Luna snapped.
'You don't understand! Nobody understands,' Hermione sniffed and turned to leave. Luna of all people!
It was that moment she realized this decision would leave her alone. All she would have were Draco and Ginny. They were great people, but she liked to have lots of friends. Hermione was growing more used to being alone, since she had been until she came to Hogwarts. She lived with her adopted family. They were loving and understanding, but they just had no idea about the magical world. Dating Draco was a risk she was becoming more willing to take, no matter how the saying went.
---Draco's POV---
All this time Draco had been around the corner from where Hermione stood, listening to her pleas. He didn't know if he wanted to put Hermione in this much trouble. Being around a Malfoy would leave her with nobody. They would only have each other and perhaps Ginny.
Draco was used to being alone. His father had never really treated him with any respect and these days his mother was nowhere to be seen. Crabbe and Goyle, his childhood cronies kept mainly to themselves these days. They were growing more and more stupid as the days went by. It was getting to the extent he couldn't have a conversation with him. The language they spoke was that of grunts and groans, a bit like a trolls, and Draco most definitely couldn't understand them.
Draco walked out just as Hermione turned to run out of the hall. He saw her tear streaked face and running mascara.
He expected her to start yelling at him. Telling him how much she hated him, but instead she ran straight into his arms.
Draco was taken quite aback, but he wrapped his arms around her anyway. She relaxed into his arms her body limp. After a while Hogwarts students realized what the couple were doing and stopped in their tracks.
What was happening? Hogwarts worst enemies were turning into some sort of relationship.
Ron had always been attention seeking, but on the night of the ball Ron took it one step too far. Lavendar and Ron exchanged cheeky looks, and then pulled each other closer and began making out then and there.
Luckily the younger years had left the ball early, like the rule had been for years, so only the sixth and seven years were left. Ron and Lavendar began to get all the attention, and Draco and Hermione broke apart to see what all the commotion was all about.
What met their eyes was truly a sight to see. Ginny stood open mouthed. Her brother was making a total fool of himself.
Harry had a bemused look on his face. What inspired this? He looked over at Hermione suspecting her, but he had known Hermione for years, and the look she was wearing told him she certainly didn't know anything about it.
Instead of the triumphant look she had on her face she had when she had slipped the Lust Potion into their food, Hermione had a totally puzzled loon on her face. One that told Harry she couldn't believe how much her friend had changed since she had got with Draco, and Ron got with Lavendar.
Hermione and Draco left the scene, glad that the attention had been turned off them. At least the awkward rumors to follow would be shared around a little bit more.
Hermione and Draco sat outside. They could still hear the noises coming from the hall. Hermione sat next to Draco and started out into the Forbidden Forest.
'Wouldn't it be nice just to run away into the forest whenever you felt sad, or angry or needed to search through your thoughts?' Hermione whispered.
'Hmm,' Draco replied.
'You'd have no worries in the world, just running in there, knowing that there were no other humans in there to disturb you.'
Draco pulled her even closer and they both got lost in their own thoughts.
Hermione's hair smelt like apples. Her soft curls were slowly turning back into Hermione's usually very bushy hair.
She had taken a quick nap that afternoon so she wouldn't be tired at the after party. It would be held in the heads common room and everyone in 6th and 7th year were invited.
After a while Hermione and Draco reentered the Great Hall. Most people were dancing, so Hermione and Draco felt they should join them.
Dumbledore thanked everyone once again and picked two lucky students to cut the balloons out of the ceiling. They were contained in a big net. Hermione and Ginny found each other and danced around in the balloons that were cut down from the ceiling. The lucky students were Meg Johns and Max Jacobs.
Ginny and Hermione tried to stamp on the balloons but their heels kept slipping off the balloons. They were literally everywhere. Students could barely be seen among the enormous mass of balloons.
After all the balloons were gone students began to reappear, and Dumbledore cleaned up the mess in a swish of his wand.
Hermione and Ginny parted. Hermione found Draco, and Ginny went to tell Ron something.
Dumbledore then announced this would be the last dance of the night, and his eyes twinkled as students sighed.
The song was almost over, and Hermione's eyes immediately went in search for Ginny. She was astounded to see Harry pulling her wrist towards the exit. Ginny was obviously struggling to break his grip on her.
Hermione pointed out the scene to Draco, and they followed Ginny and Harry until they were lead into a deserted classroom.
They both leaned forward so they could see inside the window.
What met their eyes was certainly a surprise.
You can change your life
(If you wanna)
You can change your clothes
(If you wanna)
If you change your mind
Well that's the way it goes
But I'm gonna keep your jeans
And your old black hat
('Cause I wanna)
They look good on me
You're never gonna get them back
At least not today, not today, not today 'cause...
If it's over let it go and
Come tomorrow it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
I'm just a bird that's already flown away
Laugh it off, let it go and
When you wake up it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
Haven't you heard that I'm gonna be okay?
(Okay)
You can say you're bored
(If you wanna)
You can act real tough
(If you wanna)
You can say you're torn
But I've heard enough
Thank you, you made my mind up for me
When you started to ignore me
Do you see a single tear?
It isn't gonna happen here
At least not today, not today, not today 'cause...
If it's over let it go and
Come tomorrow it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
I'm just a bird that's already flown away
Laugh it off, let it go and
When you wake up it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
Haven't you heard that I'm gonna be okay?
If you're over me,
I'm already over you
If it's all been done,
What is left to do?
How can you hang up if the line is dead?
If you wanna walk,
I'm a step ahead
If you're movin' on,
I'm already gone
If the light is off,
Then it isn't on
At least not today, not today, not today 'cause...
If it's over let it go and
Come tomorrow it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
I'm just a bird that's already flown away
Laugh it off, let it go and
When you wake up it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
Haven't you heard you're...So yesterday
(So yesterday)
If it's over let it go and
Come tomorrow it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
I'm just a bird that's already flown away
Laugh it off, let it go and
When you wake up it will seem
So yesterday, so yesterday
Haven't you heard that I'm gonna be okay?
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A/N: Cliffy^.^ I know I'm mean, but that chapter has gone for a long time! 12 word pages actually!
Lyrics: So Yesterday (Hilary Duff.) I'm sorry to all those Hilary lovers. This is a tribute to my best friend Stacey! You rock Stonkey! Please don't forget me! I'll never forget the miming you did. That was so funny!
Other tributes: Max Jacobs (he cut the ribbon in this chapter) you are one of my best friends! You rock too! I'll never forget you Maximus! (I know Jacobs is not your last name, I just wanted to protect your privacy.)
Meg Johns. Meggles, you rock too! (She was the other person who cut the ribbon.) You are the best! (I know Johns isn't your last name, same reason as above.)
If any of you are wondering about that those were my best Primary School Friends and unfortunately we got split up when High School came. I really miss my friends, especially you, Stonkey!
IMPORTANT: I AM NO LONGER GOING TO REPLY TO ALL OF THE REVIEWS BECAUSE IT TAKES A LONG TIME AND A LOT OF ROOM! I WILL ONLY REPLY TO SOME! PLEASE REVIEW ANYWAY, BECAUSE I PUT CHAPTERS UP FASTER!
R&R! I've been getting lots of reviews, but I'm greedy, and I want more! SO R&R peoples!