In the dining room the Order was having a heated discussion. Fred, or was it George, asked as soon as the door was locked and the room guarded, "Who's idea was it to bring that stupid git into the Order?"
A second later their question was answered not only by Tonks' voice but the violent change of her hair color from powder blue to bright red. "That stupid git is my cousin and he's certainly not stupid and only acts like a git occasionally. You don't realize what he's been through "
Now Dumbledore stood up putting a hand on Tonks' shoulder, "I realize that many of you are not happy with this arrangement but it was vital that we brought Draco into the protection of the Order. Some will not believe me when I say that Draco isn't as bad as most of you think. His father is a death eater, his mother may be one, in fact most of his relatives were. That's the way he was raised but instead of following in his parents foot steps he began to secretly admire his cousin Nymphadora, his aunt Andromeda, and Uncle Sirius Black. In fact the year Sirius escaped, Draco was the first to come to me with proof of Sirius' innocence. For that you should all respect him as well as the fact that he went against his parents and everything he'd been taught never expecting anything in return."
Now Professor McGonagall spoke, "I realize what you say is true Albus, but do you really think it's wise to have him here"
"Minerva dear, I don't see why he shouldn't stay here where he'll be protected." Dumbledore answered.
Snape said, "I must say I'm inclined to agree with Minerva. Some think I'm prejudice toward Potter and the Dream Team," here he sent a pointed look at Fred and George, "and although this is not entirely the case I'm still not sure they will handle it nicely."
Dumbledore considered it, "I realize what you mean and agree this isn't the best of situations."
Before he could continue Tonks cut in, "He has to stay here! If I had a flat he could stay with me but I live here and there isn't anywhere safe we could send him. We can't send him back to his parents either, they might realize what's up and Draco would feel betrayed! I won't let it happen!"
When Tonks finished, Charlie gave his opinion, "If Harry, Ron, Ginny, and Hermione can't deal with Draco Malfoy being on our side and in the same house with him then we can't expect much from them later on. I agree with Tonks, Draco is best off here and we shouldn't jeopardize him because others may be uncomfortable." Charlie gave the twins a pointed glance. There was quiet discussion then a sea of nods.
Dumbledore smiled, "Alright, now that that's decided lets go on to other topics"
The Order continued discussing other things and Tonks remained silent for the remainder of the meeting.
After Dumbledore dismissed everyone Tonks ran out after Charlie and caught his arm. Once he had turned around she gave him a shy smile, "Thank you, you're the last person I expected to agree with me."
A small blush started to creep up Charlie's face, "It wasn't a problem." He looked like he was going to say more but at the catcalls from George and Fred they broke apart and went their separate ways.
"I hope Ron's not in another girl's toilet. . "
Percy Weasley Chamber of Secrets