Disclaimer: if you recognize the song I paraphrase, it's not mine. But
either kudos to you or you're over the hill, like me! Also, if you find
anything really amiss, let me know and I'll fix and repost. Thanks, K
Chapter 7
"Miss Weasley, I really don't have time for this," Professor McGonagall said with more than a hint of impatience.
Ginny had hurried out of the Potions classroom and had nearly plowed down her friends. They'd waited, as they'd said they would. She had talked fast, leading them along the corridors toward the Transfiguration classroom. As they walked, she told them of what had happened between Snape and Draco. Ginny had purposely focused on that so the others wouldn't ask her about her unusual conversation with the professor. They were certain to want to know all about it and she wanted to think about that first. She wasn't sure herself what had really happened. But when she told them of her plan to talk to McGonagall, and why, they had protested.
"Come on, Ginny, what good would it do?" Su had demanded. "For all we know, the slimy git really DID take the book! I don't know why you're wasting your time!"
"And even if he didn't take it, you can't prove it," Daisy added reasonably, glancing quickly at Su.
Colin had remained silent, but his eyes were bright with unasked questions. Colin, at least, would not be put off for very long. They had continued arguing as they walked and finally, after Ginny had threatened to go by herself, her friends had agreed to go with her. But when they had tracked down their Head of House, the woman had seemed surprisingly reluctant to listen to what Ginny had to say. As soon as she heard that it was about Malfoy and Saturday night, she seemed to have become deaf.
"We've looked into the circumstances already, Miss Weasley," Professor McGonagall was now saying. "I doubt you have anything of value to add."
With that, the Transfiguration professor turned to the papers she'd been grading.
"Good afternoon, Miss Weasley," she said in her most repressive voice.
Su and Daisy began to back out of the room, Su muttering about how she'd told them so, and Colin placed a hand on Ginny's arm, urging her away. In desperation, Ginny shrugged off Colin's hand and slammed a small fist on the desk. Professor McGonagall jumped, her tiny spectacles sliding down her nose and almost falling off.
"Miss Weasley! What on earth!?"
"Please, Professor," Ginny said urgently. "Do you remember when Ron and his friends tried to tell you about the Sorcerer's Stone, all those years ago and you brushed them off? And if they hadn't been sure you would ignore them again, they would have told you how to open the Chamber of Secrets and I could have been rescued sooner! And other times, when Harry or Hermione or Ron had something important to tell you or the headmaster, but you thought they were just kids and what could they possibly know? But they DID know, didn't they? And what they would have told you was important, right? Well, THIS is important, too. And if you won't listen, I'll camp out in front of Professor Dumbledore's office until he listens!"
With that, Ginny crossed her arms and flung herself into one of the chairs. Daisy gasped and the Transfiguration professor stared at her in either surprise or disbelief, almost goggling over her glasses. Finally, however, she cleared her throat and pushed her spectacles up her nose.
"Very well, Miss Weasley, but it had better be important. I will not tolerate disrespect, regardless of the cause."
Thank God! Ginny silently blessed the heating system in the Burrow that allowed her to hear the conversations from the kitchen through her heating duct. While Ron and his friends had thought they were having private conversations, Ginny had heard an earful! It wasn't eavesdropping, exactly, just opening the door when opportunity knocked. Giving the professor a grateful look, she opened her mouth to begin. Professor McGonagall held up a hand.
"Not here, Miss Weasley. Since you feel it is so important, we shall go see the Headmaster. Mr. Creevey, Miss Oldsmith, Miss Cotton, you may all return to Gryffindor tower. And take that creature with you. Well-behaved as she is, now is not the time for her to meet Fawkes! Now, Miss Weasley, after you."
Colin stepped forward to protest. "But Professor," he said quickly, "after what happened Saturday, don't you think one of us should stay and walk back with Ginny?"
Their Head of House had been informed of the attack or whatever it was on Saturday night. Ginny had just been relieved that the woman hadn't felt it necessary to lecture her on personal safety or try to send her off to the healer for some 'pepper-upper' potion. Ginny rolled her eyes at Colin but it was Professor McGonagall who answered.
"And just what do you think is going to happen to Miss Weasley right here in the castle? There are students coming and going all the time. Miss Weasley will be fine."
The woman turned to Ginny with an inquiring look. "Do you feel you need an escort, Miss Weasley?" she asked archly.
"Come on, you guys," she said to her friends. "Professor McGonagall just said what I keep saying! Go on, I won't be that long."
The Transfiguration professor motioned for Ginny to precede her out of the room. Ginny told Labelle to go with her friends and she gave them all a small wave. They waved back as she and the professor headed down the corridor.
Some time later, Ginny was sitting in a large chair in the Headmaster's office. She'd been here once before and didn't like remembering the circumstances behind that. Harry and Ron had just rescued her from the Chamber of Secrets and her mum and dad had been hysterical with grief and worry. Ginny had been led in, dirty, exhausted and consumed with guilt over her actions, even though she hadn't been in control of herself at the time. When her parents had seen her, they'd nearly smothered her with their anxious concern, before taking her off to the Hospital Wing. It had happened quickly and she'd just been glad to be out of the chamber. She hadn't noted the interior of the office at the time, but now looked around with intense interest. The phoenix was wonderful, as was the unusual assortment of oddments strewn here and there on the shelves. But Ginny was more drawn by the rows and rows of books on the shelves. The few titles she could see were in a mixture of languages, none of which were English, but she would have loved to take them out and scan the text, anyway. She didn't dare, though. After telling her tale to both McGonagall and Dumbledore, Ginny had been told to stay put while the professors went out to confer. They had given her odd looks throughout her narrative, and had exchanged worried looks with one another. Ginny wondered what there was to confer about. Were they discussing how much detention to give her? Or perhaps they were deciding whether her opinion of Draco's innocence mattered at all.
Finally, after what seemed ages, Professor Dumbledore, followed by McGonagall and Snape, entered the room again. Ginny's heart dropped. After their strange conversation earlier and the way he'd treated Draco, Professor Snape was one of the last people Ginny wanted to see right now. Why had they gotten Snape involved, anyway? Because Draco's involved, stupid, she answered herself.
The Headmaster went to stand behind his desk as Ginny rose.
"I'm sorry about the delay, Miss Weasley, but you can return to your dormitory now. Thank you for taking the trouble to bring your concerns to us. We'll let you know if there is any further information we need from you."
All three professors watched as she stood and picked up her book bag. She felt nervous and tongue-tied but she couldn't help blurting out, "But what about Draco? He didn't do anything!"
Professor McGonagall looked surprised, but Ginny wasn't sure if it was over her having the nerve to say anything or her use of Draco's first name. Professor Snape gave the Transfiguration professor a slightly smug, almost victorious look, and the Headmaster merely smiled.
"We've already spoken with Mr. Malfoy and he seems satisfied with his treatment in this case. His punishment was already decided on, Miss Weasley. What we need to decide is what to do with you! You have put us all in an awkward position."
"But, sir, I don't understand," she began.
"I know, Miss Weasley. Unfortunately, I'm not at liberty to enlighten you at this time. I can only trust to your discretion and ask that you be patient. You will understand in time."
The words were kindly said, but Ginny recognized a brick wall when she came up against one. He wouldn't tell her anything. She looked again at Professor McGonagall and Professor Snape. Her Head of House was looking worriedly at the old man, but Professor Snape only frowned at her and gave her a small shake of his head. Sighing, Ginny nodded. "Yessir," she answered miserably.
Ginny let herself out of the Headmaster's chambers and looked around the corridor. Well THAT had been a waste of time and effort. She was sure to get detention, and the worst of it was that what she'd said hadn't made any difference! They hadn't cared that Draco hadn't been CAUGHT with the book. So her efforts were for nothing. And they'd kept her there FOREVER! What could have taken so long when all they did was to come in and dismiss her? What could they have been discussing for so long? If they were just going to ignore whatever she said, they could have brushed her off quickly instead of leaving her to cool her heels for so long.
Ginny wandered listlessly down the hall, depressed and a little angry. Professor Dumbledor had looked truly sorry that he couldn't tell her more, but Professor McGonagall had looked perplexed. And Snape had just looked bad-tempered, as usual, when he wasn't smirking at her head of house. Reaching the main stairway, Ginny started up, but hesitated when she heard a voice call out.
"There she is!"
Turning, Ginny saw two boys, Slytherin fifth years, she thought, hurrying up the corridor toward the stairs. Looking quickly around, she saw that there was no one else about. The boys must have been talking about her. Under normal circumstances, Ginny would have pulled out her wand and proceeded cautiously. After these last few days, though, Ginny was more nervous than she would admit. Instead of remaining calm, she started running up the stairs. One of the boys cried out and Ginny heard their steps quicken. Looking up, hoping to see some other students nearby, Ginny gasped when she saw another boy at the top of the stairs. She did recognize this boy, though! He was a Slytherin, too, but a seventh year. And one Ginny had always been afraid of.
Blaise Zabini stood calmly at the top of the stairs, watching Ginny's panicked flight with what looked like mild amusement. Ginny was trying to see if there was enough room to slip past the darkly handsome seventh year and that she could probably shove him aside if she had to. She wasn't watching her feet, though, and forgot to step over the missing riser. Her foot slipped right through the trick step! Pitching painfully forward, Ginny felt her foot twist and lodge firmly in the missing stair. The younger boys were bearing down on her, but before they could reach her, the Zabini boy stepped in front of her.
"Bit young for these games, aren't you boys? Better leave it to us older boys, hadn't you?"
Ginny shivered. She'd always been chilled by this boy. His dark hair and piercing eyes reminded her of the little bit of Tom Riddle she'd seen in the Chamber of Secrets. Even his voice held the same cold, mocking hint of superiority. But that could be said of almost any Slytherin male, she thought. And now this Riddle look-alike was towering over her, threatening to play 'games' with her! She struggled to free her foot, but with little success.
"Here! We saw her first, Zabini," one of the boys protested.
"Yeah, and what are YOU gonna do with her anyway?" the other added.
Ginny wondered the same thing. Looking up, fighting the urge to cower, she saw the dark-haired boy give her a speculative leer. "I'm sure I'll think of something. Now you two shove off. Unless," he said, his voice silkier and sharper than even Draco's, "unless you want to try to take her from me?"
Shivering more violently, Ginny watched the other two boys pale and back away. She looked up at Zabini again, wishing fiercely for Labelle to suddenly show up. The boy ignored her, watching his two housemates until they disappeared. Then he turned to her and frowned, reaching for her.
Ginny nearly panicked again, but all the boy did was to grab her arm and haul her, none too gently, up and out of the stair. When she was settled safely on both feet, he said, "Can you walk?"
Staring at him, Ginny didn't seem to register the question. He shook his head and rolled his eyes.
"Dunno what the hell you think I'm gonna do to you, Weasley, but you'd've been worse off with those two." He gestured negligently down the stairs. "Now, can you walk?"
Ginny finally seemed to realize that he wasn't going to hurt her, at least not immediately. Gingerly testing her injured foot, she found that it wasn't really that bad. Probably just bruised. She told him so.
"Good," he said. "See you around."
Giving her a slight nod, he turned and headed down the stairs.
"Uh, wait!" Ginny called, surprised by his abrupt departure.
The boy turned and raised his eyebrows at her in inquiry.
Ginny flushed. She'd never said a word to him before this day. How did one thank a total stranger for helping her out? Especially a total stranger who completely creeped her out?
"Uh, thanks," she said nervously.
He held up one hand. "Forget it, Weasley. And," he added with a smirk, "it's not necessary to thank me like you did Malfoy."
He turned again and strode off.
Ginny wanted to ask him what he meant by that, but a gentle bump on her shin made her look down. Labelle had rubbed against Ginny's legs and was now meowing happily.
"Labelle! Did you know I wanted you again?" Ginny cried, reaching for the Kneazle and cuddling her warmly. "You darling kitten! You knew I needed you, didn't you? Wasn't that the strangest thing?" She repressed yet another shudder and addressed the kitten again. "He couldn't possibly know about Diagon Alley, could he?"
Labelle only purred.
"So, what did they say? What happened? You were gone forever!" Daisy had rushed Ginny as soon as she'd entered the Common Room. Su was there, too, but she was on the other side of the room, sitting and talking with Dean Thomas. Colin was nowhere to be seen.
"Not much, nothing, and don't I know it!" Ginny answered, scanning the room. "Where's Colin?"
"Right here," he answered, stepping into the Common Room, practically on Ginny's heels. "When Labelle started fussing, I let her out and tried to follow. She lost me, though, so I started looking for you on my own."
He shrugged and smiled, as though it wasn't a big deal. Ginny returned the smile, relieved that he wasn't going to bombard her with questions. At least, not yet. Su finally came over and the four found an empty table to sit at. Then Daisy asked again.
"Well, what happened? Did they listen to you? What did they say? Did the Headmaster believe you?"
Ginny looked glumly at her friends. "Well, yes they listened. They didn't say much at all except that Draco seemed satisfied with his punishment, whatever that's supposed to mean. I don't know if they believed me or not, but it doesn't matter; they're not going to do anything."
"See?" Su said with a bit of venom in her voice. "I told you the git was guilty! If he wasn't, they would have said so, wouldn't they? I don't know why you bother with him, anyway! He's just a filthy Slytherin."
Ginny stared at her friend as though she'd never seen her before. Su looked so hateful all of a sudden. Ginny started to ask her what her problem was when Colin gripped her arm, stopping her.
"So why was Labelle freaked out again?" he asked quickly.
Ginny shot Su another look, but told her friends about what had happened on the stairs. It really hadn't been anything, but she'd been scared, regardless. Now that she thought about it, she'd probably panicked over nothing. Su tended to agree, while Daisy was aghast that two younger boys would chase after Ginny.
"Blaise Zabini?" Colin asked, grinning. "Now you have two Slytherins ready to do battle for you? These seventh year boys took their time noticing you and now they're coming out of the woodwork!"
Ginny glared playfully at him, but said, "I seriously doubt Zabini has any interest in me. Besides, you guys know how I feel."
Su snorted. "Yeah? Well I wish you'd tell Dean that, so we didn't have to listen to him moaning about how you don't notice him!"
Her voice was sharp and Ginny looked up quickly. "What? Dean's not--,"
"Oh, come on, Ginny! Wake up! You've got a really nice guy who's crazy about you, and all you can do is talk about that filthy Slytherin! It's really disgusting!"
"Now wait a minute," Ginny said hotly. "What bug crawled up your-uh- backside, anyway? Its not like I've been flirting with anyone, let alone Dean! He tried to ask me out once, but that was it, right?"
By now both girls had risen. They were speaking heatedly but in low voices and were practically nose to nose with one another. Su's dusky cheeks were flushed and Ginny's face was red. Daisy and Colin looked around nervously, Daisy trying to break in, but they were ignoring her.
"God, you're a selfish bitch, you know that? All you do is talk about that bastard Malfoy! What if WE have problems? What if WE'RE hurting? Did you ever think of that? Do you even care that we may be tired of watching your back and following around after you like goddamn body guards? No, you just go blithely along like you're the only one in the world who matters!"
Ginny stepped back, shocked. Labelle, who had ended up on the floor when Ginny had stood, alternately hissed at Su and mewled at Ginny. Several other students were now frankly staring at the two girls with wide, interested eyes. "Well, not any more, Ginny," Su snarled. "I'm not part of the 'poor little Ginny' fan club anymore!" With that, Su spun and stalked to the stairs. She took them two at a time and disappeared. Ginny sank back into her chair, staring straight ahead, her hands hanging limply at her sides. Colin and Daisy looked torn, but Colin caught Daisy's eye and motioned toward the stairs. She nodded and hurried away. Colin sat and put an arm around Ginny's shoulders.
The girl blinked, and then looked up into Colin's concerned face. "I-am I really a selfish bitch, Colin? Do I really ignore you guys? I mean-you guys are the most important people in the world to me! I'd never hurt-hurt any of you!"
"I know, Gin. I was hoping it wouldn't come to this. This was why I was trying to keep Dean away from you. Su's been mad about him for a while, now, but he doesn't seem interested in her."
Lip trembling, Ginny sniffed. "W-well, I'm not interested in him," she said fiercely. "I never tried to encourage him, and if Su's so blind she can't see that, then, well, screw her!"
"Ginny!" Colin looked shocked.
"What?" Ginny demanded. "She started it. And at least I didn't say the other word!"
"Yeah, but Gin, you meant it! Come on, she's hurt and jealous. She didn't mean what she said, and you know that."
"No?" Ginny pulled away from his comforting arm and stood again.
Labelle, who was still meowing for attention, jumped onto the table and swatted at Ginny's arm. The girl gathered the Kneazle up almost absently and stroked the soft head. "I guess I'm being selfish again, by not running after Su and apologizing for making her call me a bitch?"
Colin opened his mouth, but closed it again. He looked past Ginny. Ginny turned and saw Ron approaching. The tall redheaded boy barely noticed her, focusing on Colin.
"Planning meeting after supper, right?" he said.
"Uh, yeah. Right after supper."
"Right then, see you."
Ron ambled away and Colin turned back to Ginny, but she was gone. He looked around the room, but Ginny was nowhere to be seen.
Supper was miserable. Ginny had snuck out of the tower when Ron and Colin were talking, and she'd just hung about until it was time to go eat. In the Great Hall, she took a seat at the far end of the table, where the first years usually sat. Heaven forbid that she take one too many servings and be accused of being selfish, Ginny thought sullenly. Even Colin had defended Su, when Su had been the one to attack her! Well, she wouldn't give her friends any reason to find fault again. She just wouldn't talk to them. As the other students filed in, Ginny kept her gaze determinedly on the plate in front of her. So it was understandable when she jumped at a voice right near her ear.
"What the hell did you think you were doing, Weasley!" Draco's voice hissed in her ear. "I told you to leave it alone! Meet me tomorrow after classes. I'll be waiting in Potions! And you better have a good explanation!"
Ginny hadn't even had a chance to turn around before he was gone. She glanced down the table and saw Colin watching her worriedly, but Su and Daisy were in deep conversation, and didn't seem to have noticed.
The first years kept asking Ginny if she were being punished for something, but she ignored them. She couldn't believe that her conversation had been as insipid as theirs when she'd been a first year. But then, when she was a first year, she hadn't talked much, being more concerned about thinking she was going insane. And Ginny couldn't help feel the same right now. Su had been her friend these last four years, and Daisy and Colin for the last five years. And now, because of one boy, not even a very nice boy, she was sitting alone and one of her best friends hated her. Was it worth the heartache? With a shake of her head, Ginny decided that it was not. She would meet Draco-Malfoy tomorrow. She'd apologize for interfering in his life, and she'd assure him that she would not bother him any more. She wouldn't plague him with questions, she wouldn't talk to him and she would try to keep Labelle from annoying him. And maybe, just maybe her world would get back to normal.
The evening passed uncomfortably for Ginny. Colin was busy talking Quidditch, Daisy was conferring with Parvati and Lavender about hair and nails, and Su was sitting silently in a corner, glaring occasionally at Ginny. Ginny thanked every deity she could think of that Dean was in the meeting, too, and couldn't possibly approach her. Su might actually attack her with a knife or something. She'd tried once to talk to Su, even though she felt she was the injured party, but Su had made some smart-ass remark about imagining she was hearing something.
Ginny finally went to bed with a headache. At least one good thing had come from her argument with Su. Ginny had barely thought about Dr-Malfoy, Saturday, or Marcus Flint all night! That was good! And tomorrow, she would tell Malfoy he didn't have to worry about her anymore because she wouldn't be bothering him again. She'd even give the quills back, since he'd spent his own money on them. Labelle jumped up onto the bed as Ginny settled in and curled up on her pillow. With a final sigh and a pat for Labelle, Ginny fell asleep.
Classes were subdued without Ginny and her friends to cut up. They were being stared at by everyone since they were walking in two pairs instead of a group. Today Daisy was walking with Ginny and Colin was with Su, but the tension was so thick it was almost suffocating. Lunch was almost a repeat of the night before, this time without the hissed threats from Malfoy. Ginny sat at the top of the table and the other three in their usual place. Afternoon classes were even worse since Ginny and Su were partners for the Herbology practical. After having the carnivorous plants they were studying nearly take off one of Ginny's fingers when Su released it from its 'somnolentus' spell too early, Professor Sprout finally separated the girls. Su swore it was an accident, but she didn't sound very sorry when the professor asked her to apologize.
Finally, the last class was over! Colin and Daisy looked like they'd been running miles and Ginny figured it must be tiring trying to get her and Su to speak to the other. She felt sorry for them being in the middle. But she was a bit relieved. She probably wouldn't have any trouble going to the Potions classroom to meet Malfoy by herself. In fact, Su would probably love it! She'd probably be hoping the two fifth year boys were waiting for her!
Ginny walked slightly behind the other three and knew she was being unfair and mean, but she wasn't feeling particularly fair at the moment. And she knew she was being whiney and self-pitying, even if it was just to herself, but she couldn't seem to help it at the moment. It was her pity-party and she'd whine if she wanted.
"So, I've got practice, but I'll walk back to the castle with you, right?" Colin was saying to no one in particular.
Daisy said that sounded great, while Su just muttered, "Whatever."
Ginny didn't comment, but then, they didn't seem to expect her to. When they entered the castle, Ginny's friends (and her ex-friend, she thought bitterly) continued toward the main stairs, but Ginny moved toward the dungeons. As she expected, none of the others seemed to notice. Until she was almost at the stairs leading down.
"Ginny! Where're you going!" Daisy called from across the entryway.
Like you care, Ginny thought acidly. "I'm going to the Potions room," she answered out loud. "I'll be up in a few."
Even Su looked up at that. And, to Ginny's surprise, the girl looked worried. Hah, she thought. Probably just thinks I might meet the seventh years on their way back from Potions! But the girl said something to Colin and he nodded. Colin started walking toward Ginny as Su and Daisy continued toward the stairway.
"I'll come with you," he said.
"No, you won't, or you'll be late for practice."
"So what?" he shrugged. "This is more important. Like Su just said, those other boys might be around."
Ginny frowned. "Su said that? Yeah, right. Nice try, Colin."
Ginny turned and started down the stairs.
"Come on, Ginny. How long are you two going to be at each other's throats? Su was worried. Leave it at that, right?"
"Yeah, okay, she was worried. That's why she sicced that plant on me, and why she brushed me off last night and said all those things. Right? She started it, and I don't know why you and Daisy expect me to be the noble one and go make up with her!"
Colin didn't seem to have an answer for that and Ginny realized that her little indignant speech really did make her sound selfish and bitchy. They continued in silence until they were about halfway down the stairs. Ginny finally sighed.
"I'm sorry I'm causing everyone so much trouble, Colin. I'll talk to Su and see if there's anything I can do. I'll talk to Dean and tell him I'm not interested. And I'll talk to Malfoy and tell him I'll behave from now on and he doesn't have to worry about me anymore. Okay?"
Colin was staring at her. "Malfoy?" he repeated. "Since when is he Malfoy again? And what's this garbage about behaving and causing trouble? Did Zabini smack your head against the rail when he was helping you? Because you sound like you're confused right now."
Ginny would have tried to explain, but they were by now approaching the Potions classroom.
"Look, Colin, I'll talk to you later, right? And don't worry, I'll be fine. If you'll send Labelle down, I'll make sure she's with me when I go back to Gryffindor, right?"
Colin frowned, but nodded. "What're you doing here, anyway? Snape want to have another chat?"
Ginny only nodded, wondering why Malfoy had said to meet here, since Professor Snape would be here, too. Was he going to try to talk to her in front of the professor? She had no idea. Giving Colin a quick wave, Ginny entered the classroom.
And found it empty. Snape wasn't here, and neither was Draco. Ginny looked around nervously, hoping one of the other Slytherins wouldn't come in, looking for their Head of House. She wandered over to the sinks Draco had been scrubbing cauldrons in and saw that there was another batch to do. Those first years were really making a mess! She was leaning over, trying to figure out what exactly they'd done to result in the hardened, purplish crust lining most of the cauldrons when the door slammed. Ginny jumped and looked up to see Draco (MALFOY! she told herself) slowly approaching her.
"Well, well, if it isn't the nosy little weasel," he muttered, removing his robe and tossing it over a nearby chair.
Ginny backed away, trying to form her speech.
"Look, Malfoy, I just came here to tell you that--,"
She didn't get any farther. He had reached her and was now towering over her, glaring.
"So its Malfoy again, is it? And what did you come here to tell me? That you're an interfering little snitch? That you're a nosy little busybody? Or did you come to tell me you're an accident waiting to happen? Too late, little weasel. I know already. You just couldn't keep that big mouth shut, could you? Just had to play the goody-goody and tell the Headmaster! Do you know--," he began, but stopped himself.
"You're a bloody pain in the ass, that's what you are!" he growled.
"I-I was just trying to help," Ginny said shakily, still trying to formulate her speech.
"Who the hell told you to say anything? What makes you think I needed your help, anyway?" Draco demanded, still towering over her.
Ginny started to back away, but other than crawling into the sinks, there was nowhere to go. She didn't have to. He turned away with a disgusted noise and started running the taps. Ginny watched, startled, as he began pouring the dishwashing soap under the tap and piling the slimy, crusted cauldrons into the sink.
"God, what a mess," he muttered. Ginny was fairly certain he wasn't talking about cauldrons.
She watched as he plunged his hands into the scalding water and proceeded to scrub the topmost cauldron. Again, she was aghast that he hadn't rolled up his sleeves. Then again, with a house full of servants, he must be a domestic moron.
"It works better when you roll up your sleeves, you know," she declared, before she could stop herself.
He merely glared at her and continued to scrub. Ginny continued to watch him, unable to tear her eyes away. He looked so intent on what he was doing, as though he were trying desperately to ignore her. Despite her resolve not to pester him with questions and to assure him she would no longer bother him, Ginny blurted out, "If you'd just tell me what was going on, I wouldn't be causing messes, would I?"
Lightening-quick, he turned and grabbed her shoulders, cuffs dripping over the floor and her robe. Ginny grabbed at his wrists, trying to pry his fingers away, but although he wasn't hurting her, his grip was much too tight for her to shake him off. He glared at her, ignoring the mess he was making of the floor and her front.
"Why, Weasley? Why did you have to open your mouth? What did it get you?" he demanded.
Ginny grew angry now. She'd been called nosy, selfish, big mouth and bitch in less than twenty-four hours. She was tired of being pushed around. It was about time to push back!
"Did you really expect me to let everyone think you took that book? They will, you know. As soon as people find out you're serving detention for being caught outside the library. You didn't take anything from the library! I was there, remember? And even if you did take the stupid book, which I still don't believe, you didn't do it for some 'evil' reason, like that stupid twit Williams was saying. You're not like that! And I couldn't just not say anything, could I? Not after everything you've done for me!"
He looked at her as though she were barking mad. Then he shook his head. His eyes narrowed for a second and the anger left his face. Instead he gave her a leering smile.
"Yeah, that's right. Everything I've done for you. And what did I get for my troubles?"
Pulling her closer, Draco continued in a silky smooth voice. "I got detention for you, I almost got in trouble with the librarian for you and Marcus Flint is certain I was the one who zapped him."
Ginny watched him nervously. She didn't like how he was acting and she didn't like the look in his eyes right now. What was he trying to say, anyway? Was he expecting some sort of payment for his actions? Clearing her throat, she said, "I-uh, thank you, Malfoy, for helping me. I guess the best thing I could do is to tell you I won't be bothering you any more!"
He stared at her, as though he didn't understand her words. She tried again.
"You're right! I'm more trouble than I'm worth and I wanted you to know that I'll be behaving from now on. I won't talk to you or bother you or anything. All right?"
The fine eyebrows came down over the pale eyes, and Ginny didn't think she'd ever seen him looking so angry.
"So you're not going to bother me anymore, Weasley? Is that it? Things got a little too difficult and now you're bailing? Well, things aren't that easy, Weasley, because you're still bothering me! You're like a thorn in my side that I can't reach! And now you say you're just going to walk away? I don't think so, Weasley!"
Releasing her arms, he placed on hand on either side of her, trapping her against the sinks. Ginny gasped as he pushed his body against hers, forcing her back. She groped behind her, trying to brace herself and push away, but it was no use. Panic welled and Ginny felt ready to cry when she looked up into his angry face. There, in his eyes, she thought she saw a look of triumph! He was doing this on purpose! He was trying to scare her off! And just as suddenly, Ginny decided to turn the tables on him.
Ginny stopped trying to brace herself. She nearly toppled backward, but his arms came around her and he pulled her against him. Ginny leaned into his chest, trying to wrap her arms around his waist, but it was awkward with him holding her so tightly.
"God, Weasley, are you insane?" he breathed quietly. "You could have hurt yourself."
Ginny smiled at him, a smile that seemed to surprise him. "But you didn't let me, did you? You saved me again. And I owe you something for that."
His eyes opened wide. "What do you mean?" he asked hoarsely, releasing her.
Still smiling sweetly, Ginny reached out and pulled his face to hers. His mouth dropped open, but he didn't pull away.
"This is for protecting Labelle in the library," she whispered, brushing his cheek with her lips.
Draco closed his eyes. His jaw was tight and he grabbed for the sink again, seeming to need support.
"This is for trying to warn me about Hogsmeade." Ginny placed a feather kiss on the other cheek.
She watched as his face flushed. He pulled in a deep breath and let out a shuddering sigh.
"This is for saving me from Filch." This time Ginny released his face and tangled her fingers in his hair. She pulled his head down and placed a soft kiss on his forehead.
"And this," she said so quietly it was a wonder he heard her. "This is for rescuing me from Flint."
Ginny covered his mouth with hers and pressed softly. She held her lips there for several seconds, just keeping the firm pressure and no more. Draco hadn't moved after planting his hands on the sink, but now Ginny could feel his arms trembling. As she started to wrap her arms around him, though, he pulled back.
Draco's cheeks were now flushed and his eyes were glittering at her. His jaw was still tight and he was breathing more heavily than he had been. He stared at her for several moments, and Ginny felt a strange urge to cover her face. She felt foolish. She'd thought he was trying to scare her off, but what if she'd misinterpreted? What if he really wasn't interested? He was staring at her like she was some alien from outer space and she couldn't really blame him. She'd kissed him like a silly innocent little schoolgirl. It didn't help that that was basically what she was. Feeling the blood rise to her cheeks, Ginny started to turn away. Suddenly he seemed to relax. Giving her a small smile, Draco reached out to touch her cheek.
"You know, Weasley, I owe you some thanks, too," he said in a soft voice she'd never heard before. Cupping her cheek he stepped close again. "This is for all those smart-ass comments you always make to me," he said quietly.
He leaned forward and Ginny felt a thrill go through her. He didn't kiss her cheek, as she had his. Instead, he placed his lips at the juncture of her jaw and neck, just below her ear. His soft breath tickled, but caused a rush of liquid heat to course through her body.
"And this is for nearly giving me a heart attack when I saw you collapsed on the pavement."
He gently kissed first one eyelid, and then the other.
"And this is for believing in me, though God knows why you do."
Finally, his lips brushed hers. Ginny sighed softly and stood on her toes to get closer. He held her there, gently cupping her cheek and barely touching her lips with his. His touch was so gentle that Ginny felt cherished and treasured. It was the sweetest kiss she'd ever experienced, but at the same time, she felt like she was on fire! She felt him move even closer, so he was pressed against her. He brought his other hand up to wrap around her neck and Ginny yelped!
"God! That's cold!" she cried when he jumped back. Jumping away from the sink, Ginny turned and saw that it was overflowing. And her backside was now soaked!
"What! What did I--,"
"Nothing," Ginny said, starting to laugh. "The sink! You left the taps on!"
She reached over to turn them off, nearly colliding with him as he rushed to do the same thing. He looked almost sheepishly at her. "You know, Snape's going to have my head for this."
Ginny couldn't help grinning. He'd kissed her. He did care about her. Everything else in her world could take care of itself, now. Feeling more lighthearted than she had in weeks, Ginny teased, "For making a mess of his classroom or for snogging the enemy in his classroom?"
She expected him to tease back, but he was looking serious again. "You're soaked," he said tonelessly. "You should leave. Snape'll be back any time and if you're here, you'll get in trouble."
"But," she began, but he'd turned his back on her. "Draco Malfoy, you can't kiss me and then just turn all cold again! Damn it, look at me!"
Ginny had grabbed his arm, but he yanked it away. Unfortunately, she tried to hang on to the loose material of his sleeve and her fingernails caught on the seam.
"Shit!" Ginny hissed between clenched teeth, snatching her hand back.
"Damn it, Weasley, what the hell do you think you're doing?" he barked at her.
Then he looked at her and paled. Ginny was staring at the forefinger of her right hand. Daisy's nail polish must be tough stuff, she thought wildly. The nail had snagged on the seam, but instead of chipping or breaking off, the nail had peeled back and was now curled up on itself. Ginny felt tears sting her eyes as a thin line of blood welled from the damaged nail bed. It hurt like hell!
"Good God," Draco breathed. "Ginny, I-oh, God, I knew something like this would happen! Let me see!"
Ginny glanced at him, noticing his pale, shocked expression.
"It's nothing," she said, her voice shaky. "Just a stupid accident. It'll be fine once I get the nail back in place."
Ginny's stomach turned at the thought, unsure whether she could do it herself. More blood was welling from the injury, and now it was dripping onto the floor, mixing with the soapy water and swirling into pink islands of suds. Ginny thought she might be sick. She groped in her pocket for her handkerchief, but Draco was quicker. He took her hand gently in his and pulled out his wand.
"Anesthesio," he whispered softly, barely touching the finger.
Ginny sighed when the pain went away. She watched with a sick feeling in her stomach as he brought out his own handkerchief and covered her finger. With one quick movement, he brought his hand down and flipped the nail back into its proper position. Then he wrapped the cloth tightly around the whole. Blood was seeping through the layers of cloth already and he swore when he saw it.
"You'll have to see the healer for that," he gritted at her. His expression was cold and fixed as he stared at their clasped hands.
"Its nothing," Ginny insisted, her stomach knotting up even more. "I'll have Colin fix it. I-I'm sorry for grabbing you like that, but-you didn't have to yank away. You could have just told me to bugger off. I can take a hint, you know. But I wish you would explain things so I wouldn't get so confused."
She was doing it again; indulging in a pity party. Poor Ginny, look what the bad ol' Malfoy did to your widdle finger, she thought. 'It's my pity- party and I'll whine if I want to, whine if I want to, whine if I want to' kept running through her head. Shaking herself, she looked up into his face.
Draco looked up from the hand he was still cradling. He dropped it suddenly. "Don't you ever give it a rest, Weasley? God, you're pathetic! I can't believe you haven't figured it out yet!"
He moved away and began to pace. "Forget it, Weasley, and forget me! You said I'm not evil, but you're wrong. I'm no fucking good! Got it? If you stick around, you'll just get hurt again. Do you understand, Weasley? I am telling you to BUGGER OFF! Get lost!"
He turned and headed for the door, but Ginny was right behind him. She was hurt and confused, but she wouldn't let it go this easily. He could damned well explain what he meant.
"Wait a minute!" Ginny cried. Draco swung around, glaring down at her.
"What haven't I figured out? I don't understand. I am NOT pathetic. And you're not evil! I just won't believe that!"
Draco sneered viciously. "No? You don't think so? Well, what do you think of this, little weasel?"
With that, he ripped at his cuff, tearing the button and buttonhole, and yanked the sleeve up. There, in the pale skin of his naked forearm was the mark of a Deatheater.
Ginny felt the blood leave her face. She could only stare for a moment. No! her brain screamed. It wasn't possible! But the proof was there, marking the otherwise flawless skin. Draco Malfoy had joined his father and all his evil cohorts. He served the monster that had almost killed her in her first year. He was a Deatheater! She raised shocked, disbelieving eyes to his and saw his cold sneer turn to a malicious smile.
"Yeah, now you understand, don't you, little weasel?" he jeered. "You're right about one thing; you're not pathetic. You just have crappy taste in guys. You fall for guys who don't want you. First Creevey, who only wants to be your 'friend', then Potter, who doesn't know you're alive, and now yours truly. Well, you can forget about me, too. I'm not your bodyguard, or your knight on a shining Firebolt. This isn't some stupid romance novel, and I won't steal you away and try to make you fall for me! I've got better things to do than run around rescuing some stupid little girl who doesn't know what's good for her."
Before Ginny could react, Draco yanked the door open and left.
She stood looking at the door Draco had slammed behind him for some moments before walking shakily to it and leaning against it. Then she slid to the floor and buried her face in her hands. She waited for the tears, but they wouldn't come. She couldn't cry, at least not yet, so she thought.
Draco was a Deatheater! The thought brought back the chill she'd experienced when she'd seen his mark. She'd felt her stomach wrench, and she'd had to fight not to throw up. He was one of 'them' now! There was no denying the ugly, hated mark that had been magically impressed into his flesh. Ginny began to shiver uncontrollably, her skin feeling clammy and moist. She was sweating, and she felt horribly faint. It took a second for Ginny to realize that she was in shock. Even as the realization hit, she tried to shrug it off. She'd always thought it a convenient plot device to get the girl to faint in the hero's arms. But even if she wasn't nearly the healer Colin was, she recognized the symptoms. Leaning forward to put her head between her knees, Ginny felt the wooziness and disorientation fade.
When she straightened, though, it hit her again. Draco wasn't just a bully; he was truly evil! Why else would he have that mark on his arm? Everything she'd believed about Draco was wrong! He was not the hero she'd made him out to be, but was now one of that murderous group who preyed on people's fears and weaknesses.
All of Ginny's worst fears and nightmares began and ended with the tall, handsome dark haired boy who would grow up to be the most frightful monster of their time, and she was in love with one of his followers. Draco had been right. She was pathetic. A pathetic little girl who still dreamed of dashing heroes on sleek brooms and happy endings. Putting her head between her knees again, Ginny knew there couldn't be any happy ending to this story.
She'd been sitting on the cold floor for she didn't know how long when she heard the first faint meow.
"Labelle?" she said in a choked voice. "Is that you?"
That brought more urgent mewling, and scratching at the door. Ginny scrambled to her feet and fumbled with the doorknob. She finally got the door open and Labelle nearly pounced on her, meowing loudly with relief. Ginny held the kitten tightly and sank back to the floor. As though someone had turned on a faucet, Ginny felt her eyes fill with tears.
"Oh, Labelle! It's awful! Draco's-Draco's-oh, lord!"
Holding Labelle tightly to her, Ginny finally began to cry. Her body shook with wracking sobs that felt like they were torn from her very soul. Labelle mewled and purred and let Ginny clutch her small body against her own, until the worst of the storm had passed. When Ginny finally loosened her grip, Labelle wriggled around to snuggle into Ginny's lap, apparently content to just sit here for as long as Ginny needed her.
Leaning wearily against the door again, Ginny absently stroked the Kneazle's fur and closed her eyes, only to open them again immediately. Every time she closed her eyes, she saw Draco's forearm and that hideous mark standing out in stark relief on the pale skin. And she'd wanted that arm, both of his arms wrapped around her! She'd wanted him to kiss her and hold her. And now she only wanted to forget what she'd seen.
Her misery was almost overwhelming, but eventually Ginny knew she had to move. She had to use the loo, for one thing, and her bottom was now numb from the cold stones on the floor. Her robe was soaked, front and back and she'd begun to shiver again, which wasn't a good sign. And besides, Professor Snape might return at any time. It was a miracle he hadn't come back already! Heaving a deep sigh, Ginny roused the dozing Kneazle.
"I guess we should get back to Gryffindor, Labelle," she said. "Colin will be worried."
"Mrow?"
The kitten made what sounded like an inquiring noise, and next Ginny knew, an image of a very worried Draco entered her mind. Ginny flinched from the image and Labelle mewled softly, almost in apology.
"It's not your fault, love! You didn't know. I just don't want to think about him right now, all right?"
For once, Labelle was silent.
Chapter 7
"Miss Weasley, I really don't have time for this," Professor McGonagall said with more than a hint of impatience.
Ginny had hurried out of the Potions classroom and had nearly plowed down her friends. They'd waited, as they'd said they would. She had talked fast, leading them along the corridors toward the Transfiguration classroom. As they walked, she told them of what had happened between Snape and Draco. Ginny had purposely focused on that so the others wouldn't ask her about her unusual conversation with the professor. They were certain to want to know all about it and she wanted to think about that first. She wasn't sure herself what had really happened. But when she told them of her plan to talk to McGonagall, and why, they had protested.
"Come on, Ginny, what good would it do?" Su had demanded. "For all we know, the slimy git really DID take the book! I don't know why you're wasting your time!"
"And even if he didn't take it, you can't prove it," Daisy added reasonably, glancing quickly at Su.
Colin had remained silent, but his eyes were bright with unasked questions. Colin, at least, would not be put off for very long. They had continued arguing as they walked and finally, after Ginny had threatened to go by herself, her friends had agreed to go with her. But when they had tracked down their Head of House, the woman had seemed surprisingly reluctant to listen to what Ginny had to say. As soon as she heard that it was about Malfoy and Saturday night, she seemed to have become deaf.
"We've looked into the circumstances already, Miss Weasley," Professor McGonagall was now saying. "I doubt you have anything of value to add."
With that, the Transfiguration professor turned to the papers she'd been grading.
"Good afternoon, Miss Weasley," she said in her most repressive voice.
Su and Daisy began to back out of the room, Su muttering about how she'd told them so, and Colin placed a hand on Ginny's arm, urging her away. In desperation, Ginny shrugged off Colin's hand and slammed a small fist on the desk. Professor McGonagall jumped, her tiny spectacles sliding down her nose and almost falling off.
"Miss Weasley! What on earth!?"
"Please, Professor," Ginny said urgently. "Do you remember when Ron and his friends tried to tell you about the Sorcerer's Stone, all those years ago and you brushed them off? And if they hadn't been sure you would ignore them again, they would have told you how to open the Chamber of Secrets and I could have been rescued sooner! And other times, when Harry or Hermione or Ron had something important to tell you or the headmaster, but you thought they were just kids and what could they possibly know? But they DID know, didn't they? And what they would have told you was important, right? Well, THIS is important, too. And if you won't listen, I'll camp out in front of Professor Dumbledore's office until he listens!"
With that, Ginny crossed her arms and flung herself into one of the chairs. Daisy gasped and the Transfiguration professor stared at her in either surprise or disbelief, almost goggling over her glasses. Finally, however, she cleared her throat and pushed her spectacles up her nose.
"Very well, Miss Weasley, but it had better be important. I will not tolerate disrespect, regardless of the cause."
Thank God! Ginny silently blessed the heating system in the Burrow that allowed her to hear the conversations from the kitchen through her heating duct. While Ron and his friends had thought they were having private conversations, Ginny had heard an earful! It wasn't eavesdropping, exactly, just opening the door when opportunity knocked. Giving the professor a grateful look, she opened her mouth to begin. Professor McGonagall held up a hand.
"Not here, Miss Weasley. Since you feel it is so important, we shall go see the Headmaster. Mr. Creevey, Miss Oldsmith, Miss Cotton, you may all return to Gryffindor tower. And take that creature with you. Well-behaved as she is, now is not the time for her to meet Fawkes! Now, Miss Weasley, after you."
Colin stepped forward to protest. "But Professor," he said quickly, "after what happened Saturday, don't you think one of us should stay and walk back with Ginny?"
Their Head of House had been informed of the attack or whatever it was on Saturday night. Ginny had just been relieved that the woman hadn't felt it necessary to lecture her on personal safety or try to send her off to the healer for some 'pepper-upper' potion. Ginny rolled her eyes at Colin but it was Professor McGonagall who answered.
"And just what do you think is going to happen to Miss Weasley right here in the castle? There are students coming and going all the time. Miss Weasley will be fine."
The woman turned to Ginny with an inquiring look. "Do you feel you need an escort, Miss Weasley?" she asked archly.
"Come on, you guys," she said to her friends. "Professor McGonagall just said what I keep saying! Go on, I won't be that long."
The Transfiguration professor motioned for Ginny to precede her out of the room. Ginny told Labelle to go with her friends and she gave them all a small wave. They waved back as she and the professor headed down the corridor.
Some time later, Ginny was sitting in a large chair in the Headmaster's office. She'd been here once before and didn't like remembering the circumstances behind that. Harry and Ron had just rescued her from the Chamber of Secrets and her mum and dad had been hysterical with grief and worry. Ginny had been led in, dirty, exhausted and consumed with guilt over her actions, even though she hadn't been in control of herself at the time. When her parents had seen her, they'd nearly smothered her with their anxious concern, before taking her off to the Hospital Wing. It had happened quickly and she'd just been glad to be out of the chamber. She hadn't noted the interior of the office at the time, but now looked around with intense interest. The phoenix was wonderful, as was the unusual assortment of oddments strewn here and there on the shelves. But Ginny was more drawn by the rows and rows of books on the shelves. The few titles she could see were in a mixture of languages, none of which were English, but she would have loved to take them out and scan the text, anyway. She didn't dare, though. After telling her tale to both McGonagall and Dumbledore, Ginny had been told to stay put while the professors went out to confer. They had given her odd looks throughout her narrative, and had exchanged worried looks with one another. Ginny wondered what there was to confer about. Were they discussing how much detention to give her? Or perhaps they were deciding whether her opinion of Draco's innocence mattered at all.
Finally, after what seemed ages, Professor Dumbledore, followed by McGonagall and Snape, entered the room again. Ginny's heart dropped. After their strange conversation earlier and the way he'd treated Draco, Professor Snape was one of the last people Ginny wanted to see right now. Why had they gotten Snape involved, anyway? Because Draco's involved, stupid, she answered herself.
The Headmaster went to stand behind his desk as Ginny rose.
"I'm sorry about the delay, Miss Weasley, but you can return to your dormitory now. Thank you for taking the trouble to bring your concerns to us. We'll let you know if there is any further information we need from you."
All three professors watched as she stood and picked up her book bag. She felt nervous and tongue-tied but she couldn't help blurting out, "But what about Draco? He didn't do anything!"
Professor McGonagall looked surprised, but Ginny wasn't sure if it was over her having the nerve to say anything or her use of Draco's first name. Professor Snape gave the Transfiguration professor a slightly smug, almost victorious look, and the Headmaster merely smiled.
"We've already spoken with Mr. Malfoy and he seems satisfied with his treatment in this case. His punishment was already decided on, Miss Weasley. What we need to decide is what to do with you! You have put us all in an awkward position."
"But, sir, I don't understand," she began.
"I know, Miss Weasley. Unfortunately, I'm not at liberty to enlighten you at this time. I can only trust to your discretion and ask that you be patient. You will understand in time."
The words were kindly said, but Ginny recognized a brick wall when she came up against one. He wouldn't tell her anything. She looked again at Professor McGonagall and Professor Snape. Her Head of House was looking worriedly at the old man, but Professor Snape only frowned at her and gave her a small shake of his head. Sighing, Ginny nodded. "Yessir," she answered miserably.
Ginny let herself out of the Headmaster's chambers and looked around the corridor. Well THAT had been a waste of time and effort. She was sure to get detention, and the worst of it was that what she'd said hadn't made any difference! They hadn't cared that Draco hadn't been CAUGHT with the book. So her efforts were for nothing. And they'd kept her there FOREVER! What could have taken so long when all they did was to come in and dismiss her? What could they have been discussing for so long? If they were just going to ignore whatever she said, they could have brushed her off quickly instead of leaving her to cool her heels for so long.
Ginny wandered listlessly down the hall, depressed and a little angry. Professor Dumbledor had looked truly sorry that he couldn't tell her more, but Professor McGonagall had looked perplexed. And Snape had just looked bad-tempered, as usual, when he wasn't smirking at her head of house. Reaching the main stairway, Ginny started up, but hesitated when she heard a voice call out.
"There she is!"
Turning, Ginny saw two boys, Slytherin fifth years, she thought, hurrying up the corridor toward the stairs. Looking quickly around, she saw that there was no one else about. The boys must have been talking about her. Under normal circumstances, Ginny would have pulled out her wand and proceeded cautiously. After these last few days, though, Ginny was more nervous than she would admit. Instead of remaining calm, she started running up the stairs. One of the boys cried out and Ginny heard their steps quicken. Looking up, hoping to see some other students nearby, Ginny gasped when she saw another boy at the top of the stairs. She did recognize this boy, though! He was a Slytherin, too, but a seventh year. And one Ginny had always been afraid of.
Blaise Zabini stood calmly at the top of the stairs, watching Ginny's panicked flight with what looked like mild amusement. Ginny was trying to see if there was enough room to slip past the darkly handsome seventh year and that she could probably shove him aside if she had to. She wasn't watching her feet, though, and forgot to step over the missing riser. Her foot slipped right through the trick step! Pitching painfully forward, Ginny felt her foot twist and lodge firmly in the missing stair. The younger boys were bearing down on her, but before they could reach her, the Zabini boy stepped in front of her.
"Bit young for these games, aren't you boys? Better leave it to us older boys, hadn't you?"
Ginny shivered. She'd always been chilled by this boy. His dark hair and piercing eyes reminded her of the little bit of Tom Riddle she'd seen in the Chamber of Secrets. Even his voice held the same cold, mocking hint of superiority. But that could be said of almost any Slytherin male, she thought. And now this Riddle look-alike was towering over her, threatening to play 'games' with her! She struggled to free her foot, but with little success.
"Here! We saw her first, Zabini," one of the boys protested.
"Yeah, and what are YOU gonna do with her anyway?" the other added.
Ginny wondered the same thing. Looking up, fighting the urge to cower, she saw the dark-haired boy give her a speculative leer. "I'm sure I'll think of something. Now you two shove off. Unless," he said, his voice silkier and sharper than even Draco's, "unless you want to try to take her from me?"
Shivering more violently, Ginny watched the other two boys pale and back away. She looked up at Zabini again, wishing fiercely for Labelle to suddenly show up. The boy ignored her, watching his two housemates until they disappeared. Then he turned to her and frowned, reaching for her.
Ginny nearly panicked again, but all the boy did was to grab her arm and haul her, none too gently, up and out of the stair. When she was settled safely on both feet, he said, "Can you walk?"
Staring at him, Ginny didn't seem to register the question. He shook his head and rolled his eyes.
"Dunno what the hell you think I'm gonna do to you, Weasley, but you'd've been worse off with those two." He gestured negligently down the stairs. "Now, can you walk?"
Ginny finally seemed to realize that he wasn't going to hurt her, at least not immediately. Gingerly testing her injured foot, she found that it wasn't really that bad. Probably just bruised. She told him so.
"Good," he said. "See you around."
Giving her a slight nod, he turned and headed down the stairs.
"Uh, wait!" Ginny called, surprised by his abrupt departure.
The boy turned and raised his eyebrows at her in inquiry.
Ginny flushed. She'd never said a word to him before this day. How did one thank a total stranger for helping her out? Especially a total stranger who completely creeped her out?
"Uh, thanks," she said nervously.
He held up one hand. "Forget it, Weasley. And," he added with a smirk, "it's not necessary to thank me like you did Malfoy."
He turned again and strode off.
Ginny wanted to ask him what he meant by that, but a gentle bump on her shin made her look down. Labelle had rubbed against Ginny's legs and was now meowing happily.
"Labelle! Did you know I wanted you again?" Ginny cried, reaching for the Kneazle and cuddling her warmly. "You darling kitten! You knew I needed you, didn't you? Wasn't that the strangest thing?" She repressed yet another shudder and addressed the kitten again. "He couldn't possibly know about Diagon Alley, could he?"
Labelle only purred.
"So, what did they say? What happened? You were gone forever!" Daisy had rushed Ginny as soon as she'd entered the Common Room. Su was there, too, but she was on the other side of the room, sitting and talking with Dean Thomas. Colin was nowhere to be seen.
"Not much, nothing, and don't I know it!" Ginny answered, scanning the room. "Where's Colin?"
"Right here," he answered, stepping into the Common Room, practically on Ginny's heels. "When Labelle started fussing, I let her out and tried to follow. She lost me, though, so I started looking for you on my own."
He shrugged and smiled, as though it wasn't a big deal. Ginny returned the smile, relieved that he wasn't going to bombard her with questions. At least, not yet. Su finally came over and the four found an empty table to sit at. Then Daisy asked again.
"Well, what happened? Did they listen to you? What did they say? Did the Headmaster believe you?"
Ginny looked glumly at her friends. "Well, yes they listened. They didn't say much at all except that Draco seemed satisfied with his punishment, whatever that's supposed to mean. I don't know if they believed me or not, but it doesn't matter; they're not going to do anything."
"See?" Su said with a bit of venom in her voice. "I told you the git was guilty! If he wasn't, they would have said so, wouldn't they? I don't know why you bother with him, anyway! He's just a filthy Slytherin."
Ginny stared at her friend as though she'd never seen her before. Su looked so hateful all of a sudden. Ginny started to ask her what her problem was when Colin gripped her arm, stopping her.
"So why was Labelle freaked out again?" he asked quickly.
Ginny shot Su another look, but told her friends about what had happened on the stairs. It really hadn't been anything, but she'd been scared, regardless. Now that she thought about it, she'd probably panicked over nothing. Su tended to agree, while Daisy was aghast that two younger boys would chase after Ginny.
"Blaise Zabini?" Colin asked, grinning. "Now you have two Slytherins ready to do battle for you? These seventh year boys took their time noticing you and now they're coming out of the woodwork!"
Ginny glared playfully at him, but said, "I seriously doubt Zabini has any interest in me. Besides, you guys know how I feel."
Su snorted. "Yeah? Well I wish you'd tell Dean that, so we didn't have to listen to him moaning about how you don't notice him!"
Her voice was sharp and Ginny looked up quickly. "What? Dean's not--,"
"Oh, come on, Ginny! Wake up! You've got a really nice guy who's crazy about you, and all you can do is talk about that filthy Slytherin! It's really disgusting!"
"Now wait a minute," Ginny said hotly. "What bug crawled up your-uh- backside, anyway? Its not like I've been flirting with anyone, let alone Dean! He tried to ask me out once, but that was it, right?"
By now both girls had risen. They were speaking heatedly but in low voices and were practically nose to nose with one another. Su's dusky cheeks were flushed and Ginny's face was red. Daisy and Colin looked around nervously, Daisy trying to break in, but they were ignoring her.
"God, you're a selfish bitch, you know that? All you do is talk about that bastard Malfoy! What if WE have problems? What if WE'RE hurting? Did you ever think of that? Do you even care that we may be tired of watching your back and following around after you like goddamn body guards? No, you just go blithely along like you're the only one in the world who matters!"
Ginny stepped back, shocked. Labelle, who had ended up on the floor when Ginny had stood, alternately hissed at Su and mewled at Ginny. Several other students were now frankly staring at the two girls with wide, interested eyes. "Well, not any more, Ginny," Su snarled. "I'm not part of the 'poor little Ginny' fan club anymore!" With that, Su spun and stalked to the stairs. She took them two at a time and disappeared. Ginny sank back into her chair, staring straight ahead, her hands hanging limply at her sides. Colin and Daisy looked torn, but Colin caught Daisy's eye and motioned toward the stairs. She nodded and hurried away. Colin sat and put an arm around Ginny's shoulders.
The girl blinked, and then looked up into Colin's concerned face. "I-am I really a selfish bitch, Colin? Do I really ignore you guys? I mean-you guys are the most important people in the world to me! I'd never hurt-hurt any of you!"
"I know, Gin. I was hoping it wouldn't come to this. This was why I was trying to keep Dean away from you. Su's been mad about him for a while, now, but he doesn't seem interested in her."
Lip trembling, Ginny sniffed. "W-well, I'm not interested in him," she said fiercely. "I never tried to encourage him, and if Su's so blind she can't see that, then, well, screw her!"
"Ginny!" Colin looked shocked.
"What?" Ginny demanded. "She started it. And at least I didn't say the other word!"
"Yeah, but Gin, you meant it! Come on, she's hurt and jealous. She didn't mean what she said, and you know that."
"No?" Ginny pulled away from his comforting arm and stood again.
Labelle, who was still meowing for attention, jumped onto the table and swatted at Ginny's arm. The girl gathered the Kneazle up almost absently and stroked the soft head. "I guess I'm being selfish again, by not running after Su and apologizing for making her call me a bitch?"
Colin opened his mouth, but closed it again. He looked past Ginny. Ginny turned and saw Ron approaching. The tall redheaded boy barely noticed her, focusing on Colin.
"Planning meeting after supper, right?" he said.
"Uh, yeah. Right after supper."
"Right then, see you."
Ron ambled away and Colin turned back to Ginny, but she was gone. He looked around the room, but Ginny was nowhere to be seen.
Supper was miserable. Ginny had snuck out of the tower when Ron and Colin were talking, and she'd just hung about until it was time to go eat. In the Great Hall, she took a seat at the far end of the table, where the first years usually sat. Heaven forbid that she take one too many servings and be accused of being selfish, Ginny thought sullenly. Even Colin had defended Su, when Su had been the one to attack her! Well, she wouldn't give her friends any reason to find fault again. She just wouldn't talk to them. As the other students filed in, Ginny kept her gaze determinedly on the plate in front of her. So it was understandable when she jumped at a voice right near her ear.
"What the hell did you think you were doing, Weasley!" Draco's voice hissed in her ear. "I told you to leave it alone! Meet me tomorrow after classes. I'll be waiting in Potions! And you better have a good explanation!"
Ginny hadn't even had a chance to turn around before he was gone. She glanced down the table and saw Colin watching her worriedly, but Su and Daisy were in deep conversation, and didn't seem to have noticed.
The first years kept asking Ginny if she were being punished for something, but she ignored them. She couldn't believe that her conversation had been as insipid as theirs when she'd been a first year. But then, when she was a first year, she hadn't talked much, being more concerned about thinking she was going insane. And Ginny couldn't help feel the same right now. Su had been her friend these last four years, and Daisy and Colin for the last five years. And now, because of one boy, not even a very nice boy, she was sitting alone and one of her best friends hated her. Was it worth the heartache? With a shake of her head, Ginny decided that it was not. She would meet Draco-Malfoy tomorrow. She'd apologize for interfering in his life, and she'd assure him that she would not bother him any more. She wouldn't plague him with questions, she wouldn't talk to him and she would try to keep Labelle from annoying him. And maybe, just maybe her world would get back to normal.
The evening passed uncomfortably for Ginny. Colin was busy talking Quidditch, Daisy was conferring with Parvati and Lavender about hair and nails, and Su was sitting silently in a corner, glaring occasionally at Ginny. Ginny thanked every deity she could think of that Dean was in the meeting, too, and couldn't possibly approach her. Su might actually attack her with a knife or something. She'd tried once to talk to Su, even though she felt she was the injured party, but Su had made some smart-ass remark about imagining she was hearing something.
Ginny finally went to bed with a headache. At least one good thing had come from her argument with Su. Ginny had barely thought about Dr-Malfoy, Saturday, or Marcus Flint all night! That was good! And tomorrow, she would tell Malfoy he didn't have to worry about her anymore because she wouldn't be bothering him again. She'd even give the quills back, since he'd spent his own money on them. Labelle jumped up onto the bed as Ginny settled in and curled up on her pillow. With a final sigh and a pat for Labelle, Ginny fell asleep.
Classes were subdued without Ginny and her friends to cut up. They were being stared at by everyone since they were walking in two pairs instead of a group. Today Daisy was walking with Ginny and Colin was with Su, but the tension was so thick it was almost suffocating. Lunch was almost a repeat of the night before, this time without the hissed threats from Malfoy. Ginny sat at the top of the table and the other three in their usual place. Afternoon classes were even worse since Ginny and Su were partners for the Herbology practical. After having the carnivorous plants they were studying nearly take off one of Ginny's fingers when Su released it from its 'somnolentus' spell too early, Professor Sprout finally separated the girls. Su swore it was an accident, but she didn't sound very sorry when the professor asked her to apologize.
Finally, the last class was over! Colin and Daisy looked like they'd been running miles and Ginny figured it must be tiring trying to get her and Su to speak to the other. She felt sorry for them being in the middle. But she was a bit relieved. She probably wouldn't have any trouble going to the Potions classroom to meet Malfoy by herself. In fact, Su would probably love it! She'd probably be hoping the two fifth year boys were waiting for her!
Ginny walked slightly behind the other three and knew she was being unfair and mean, but she wasn't feeling particularly fair at the moment. And she knew she was being whiney and self-pitying, even if it was just to herself, but she couldn't seem to help it at the moment. It was her pity-party and she'd whine if she wanted.
"So, I've got practice, but I'll walk back to the castle with you, right?" Colin was saying to no one in particular.
Daisy said that sounded great, while Su just muttered, "Whatever."
Ginny didn't comment, but then, they didn't seem to expect her to. When they entered the castle, Ginny's friends (and her ex-friend, she thought bitterly) continued toward the main stairs, but Ginny moved toward the dungeons. As she expected, none of the others seemed to notice. Until she was almost at the stairs leading down.
"Ginny! Where're you going!" Daisy called from across the entryway.
Like you care, Ginny thought acidly. "I'm going to the Potions room," she answered out loud. "I'll be up in a few."
Even Su looked up at that. And, to Ginny's surprise, the girl looked worried. Hah, she thought. Probably just thinks I might meet the seventh years on their way back from Potions! But the girl said something to Colin and he nodded. Colin started walking toward Ginny as Su and Daisy continued toward the stairway.
"I'll come with you," he said.
"No, you won't, or you'll be late for practice."
"So what?" he shrugged. "This is more important. Like Su just said, those other boys might be around."
Ginny frowned. "Su said that? Yeah, right. Nice try, Colin."
Ginny turned and started down the stairs.
"Come on, Ginny. How long are you two going to be at each other's throats? Su was worried. Leave it at that, right?"
"Yeah, okay, she was worried. That's why she sicced that plant on me, and why she brushed me off last night and said all those things. Right? She started it, and I don't know why you and Daisy expect me to be the noble one and go make up with her!"
Colin didn't seem to have an answer for that and Ginny realized that her little indignant speech really did make her sound selfish and bitchy. They continued in silence until they were about halfway down the stairs. Ginny finally sighed.
"I'm sorry I'm causing everyone so much trouble, Colin. I'll talk to Su and see if there's anything I can do. I'll talk to Dean and tell him I'm not interested. And I'll talk to Malfoy and tell him I'll behave from now on and he doesn't have to worry about me anymore. Okay?"
Colin was staring at her. "Malfoy?" he repeated. "Since when is he Malfoy again? And what's this garbage about behaving and causing trouble? Did Zabini smack your head against the rail when he was helping you? Because you sound like you're confused right now."
Ginny would have tried to explain, but they were by now approaching the Potions classroom.
"Look, Colin, I'll talk to you later, right? And don't worry, I'll be fine. If you'll send Labelle down, I'll make sure she's with me when I go back to Gryffindor, right?"
Colin frowned, but nodded. "What're you doing here, anyway? Snape want to have another chat?"
Ginny only nodded, wondering why Malfoy had said to meet here, since Professor Snape would be here, too. Was he going to try to talk to her in front of the professor? She had no idea. Giving Colin a quick wave, Ginny entered the classroom.
And found it empty. Snape wasn't here, and neither was Draco. Ginny looked around nervously, hoping one of the other Slytherins wouldn't come in, looking for their Head of House. She wandered over to the sinks Draco had been scrubbing cauldrons in and saw that there was another batch to do. Those first years were really making a mess! She was leaning over, trying to figure out what exactly they'd done to result in the hardened, purplish crust lining most of the cauldrons when the door slammed. Ginny jumped and looked up to see Draco (MALFOY! she told herself) slowly approaching her.
"Well, well, if it isn't the nosy little weasel," he muttered, removing his robe and tossing it over a nearby chair.
Ginny backed away, trying to form her speech.
"Look, Malfoy, I just came here to tell you that--,"
She didn't get any farther. He had reached her and was now towering over her, glaring.
"So its Malfoy again, is it? And what did you come here to tell me? That you're an interfering little snitch? That you're a nosy little busybody? Or did you come to tell me you're an accident waiting to happen? Too late, little weasel. I know already. You just couldn't keep that big mouth shut, could you? Just had to play the goody-goody and tell the Headmaster! Do you know--," he began, but stopped himself.
"You're a bloody pain in the ass, that's what you are!" he growled.
"I-I was just trying to help," Ginny said shakily, still trying to formulate her speech.
"Who the hell told you to say anything? What makes you think I needed your help, anyway?" Draco demanded, still towering over her.
Ginny started to back away, but other than crawling into the sinks, there was nowhere to go. She didn't have to. He turned away with a disgusted noise and started running the taps. Ginny watched, startled, as he began pouring the dishwashing soap under the tap and piling the slimy, crusted cauldrons into the sink.
"God, what a mess," he muttered. Ginny was fairly certain he wasn't talking about cauldrons.
She watched as he plunged his hands into the scalding water and proceeded to scrub the topmost cauldron. Again, she was aghast that he hadn't rolled up his sleeves. Then again, with a house full of servants, he must be a domestic moron.
"It works better when you roll up your sleeves, you know," she declared, before she could stop herself.
He merely glared at her and continued to scrub. Ginny continued to watch him, unable to tear her eyes away. He looked so intent on what he was doing, as though he were trying desperately to ignore her. Despite her resolve not to pester him with questions and to assure him she would no longer bother him, Ginny blurted out, "If you'd just tell me what was going on, I wouldn't be causing messes, would I?"
Lightening-quick, he turned and grabbed her shoulders, cuffs dripping over the floor and her robe. Ginny grabbed at his wrists, trying to pry his fingers away, but although he wasn't hurting her, his grip was much too tight for her to shake him off. He glared at her, ignoring the mess he was making of the floor and her front.
"Why, Weasley? Why did you have to open your mouth? What did it get you?" he demanded.
Ginny grew angry now. She'd been called nosy, selfish, big mouth and bitch in less than twenty-four hours. She was tired of being pushed around. It was about time to push back!
"Did you really expect me to let everyone think you took that book? They will, you know. As soon as people find out you're serving detention for being caught outside the library. You didn't take anything from the library! I was there, remember? And even if you did take the stupid book, which I still don't believe, you didn't do it for some 'evil' reason, like that stupid twit Williams was saying. You're not like that! And I couldn't just not say anything, could I? Not after everything you've done for me!"
He looked at her as though she were barking mad. Then he shook his head. His eyes narrowed for a second and the anger left his face. Instead he gave her a leering smile.
"Yeah, that's right. Everything I've done for you. And what did I get for my troubles?"
Pulling her closer, Draco continued in a silky smooth voice. "I got detention for you, I almost got in trouble with the librarian for you and Marcus Flint is certain I was the one who zapped him."
Ginny watched him nervously. She didn't like how he was acting and she didn't like the look in his eyes right now. What was he trying to say, anyway? Was he expecting some sort of payment for his actions? Clearing her throat, she said, "I-uh, thank you, Malfoy, for helping me. I guess the best thing I could do is to tell you I won't be bothering you any more!"
He stared at her, as though he didn't understand her words. She tried again.
"You're right! I'm more trouble than I'm worth and I wanted you to know that I'll be behaving from now on. I won't talk to you or bother you or anything. All right?"
The fine eyebrows came down over the pale eyes, and Ginny didn't think she'd ever seen him looking so angry.
"So you're not going to bother me anymore, Weasley? Is that it? Things got a little too difficult and now you're bailing? Well, things aren't that easy, Weasley, because you're still bothering me! You're like a thorn in my side that I can't reach! And now you say you're just going to walk away? I don't think so, Weasley!"
Releasing her arms, he placed on hand on either side of her, trapping her against the sinks. Ginny gasped as he pushed his body against hers, forcing her back. She groped behind her, trying to brace herself and push away, but it was no use. Panic welled and Ginny felt ready to cry when she looked up into his angry face. There, in his eyes, she thought she saw a look of triumph! He was doing this on purpose! He was trying to scare her off! And just as suddenly, Ginny decided to turn the tables on him.
Ginny stopped trying to brace herself. She nearly toppled backward, but his arms came around her and he pulled her against him. Ginny leaned into his chest, trying to wrap her arms around his waist, but it was awkward with him holding her so tightly.
"God, Weasley, are you insane?" he breathed quietly. "You could have hurt yourself."
Ginny smiled at him, a smile that seemed to surprise him. "But you didn't let me, did you? You saved me again. And I owe you something for that."
His eyes opened wide. "What do you mean?" he asked hoarsely, releasing her.
Still smiling sweetly, Ginny reached out and pulled his face to hers. His mouth dropped open, but he didn't pull away.
"This is for protecting Labelle in the library," she whispered, brushing his cheek with her lips.
Draco closed his eyes. His jaw was tight and he grabbed for the sink again, seeming to need support.
"This is for trying to warn me about Hogsmeade." Ginny placed a feather kiss on the other cheek.
She watched as his face flushed. He pulled in a deep breath and let out a shuddering sigh.
"This is for saving me from Filch." This time Ginny released his face and tangled her fingers in his hair. She pulled his head down and placed a soft kiss on his forehead.
"And this," she said so quietly it was a wonder he heard her. "This is for rescuing me from Flint."
Ginny covered his mouth with hers and pressed softly. She held her lips there for several seconds, just keeping the firm pressure and no more. Draco hadn't moved after planting his hands on the sink, but now Ginny could feel his arms trembling. As she started to wrap her arms around him, though, he pulled back.
Draco's cheeks were now flushed and his eyes were glittering at her. His jaw was still tight and he was breathing more heavily than he had been. He stared at her for several moments, and Ginny felt a strange urge to cover her face. She felt foolish. She'd thought he was trying to scare her off, but what if she'd misinterpreted? What if he really wasn't interested? He was staring at her like she was some alien from outer space and she couldn't really blame him. She'd kissed him like a silly innocent little schoolgirl. It didn't help that that was basically what she was. Feeling the blood rise to her cheeks, Ginny started to turn away. Suddenly he seemed to relax. Giving her a small smile, Draco reached out to touch her cheek.
"You know, Weasley, I owe you some thanks, too," he said in a soft voice she'd never heard before. Cupping her cheek he stepped close again. "This is for all those smart-ass comments you always make to me," he said quietly.
He leaned forward and Ginny felt a thrill go through her. He didn't kiss her cheek, as she had his. Instead, he placed his lips at the juncture of her jaw and neck, just below her ear. His soft breath tickled, but caused a rush of liquid heat to course through her body.
"And this is for nearly giving me a heart attack when I saw you collapsed on the pavement."
He gently kissed first one eyelid, and then the other.
"And this is for believing in me, though God knows why you do."
Finally, his lips brushed hers. Ginny sighed softly and stood on her toes to get closer. He held her there, gently cupping her cheek and barely touching her lips with his. His touch was so gentle that Ginny felt cherished and treasured. It was the sweetest kiss she'd ever experienced, but at the same time, she felt like she was on fire! She felt him move even closer, so he was pressed against her. He brought his other hand up to wrap around her neck and Ginny yelped!
"God! That's cold!" she cried when he jumped back. Jumping away from the sink, Ginny turned and saw that it was overflowing. And her backside was now soaked!
"What! What did I--,"
"Nothing," Ginny said, starting to laugh. "The sink! You left the taps on!"
She reached over to turn them off, nearly colliding with him as he rushed to do the same thing. He looked almost sheepishly at her. "You know, Snape's going to have my head for this."
Ginny couldn't help grinning. He'd kissed her. He did care about her. Everything else in her world could take care of itself, now. Feeling more lighthearted than she had in weeks, Ginny teased, "For making a mess of his classroom or for snogging the enemy in his classroom?"
She expected him to tease back, but he was looking serious again. "You're soaked," he said tonelessly. "You should leave. Snape'll be back any time and if you're here, you'll get in trouble."
"But," she began, but he'd turned his back on her. "Draco Malfoy, you can't kiss me and then just turn all cold again! Damn it, look at me!"
Ginny had grabbed his arm, but he yanked it away. Unfortunately, she tried to hang on to the loose material of his sleeve and her fingernails caught on the seam.
"Shit!" Ginny hissed between clenched teeth, snatching her hand back.
"Damn it, Weasley, what the hell do you think you're doing?" he barked at her.
Then he looked at her and paled. Ginny was staring at the forefinger of her right hand. Daisy's nail polish must be tough stuff, she thought wildly. The nail had snagged on the seam, but instead of chipping or breaking off, the nail had peeled back and was now curled up on itself. Ginny felt tears sting her eyes as a thin line of blood welled from the damaged nail bed. It hurt like hell!
"Good God," Draco breathed. "Ginny, I-oh, God, I knew something like this would happen! Let me see!"
Ginny glanced at him, noticing his pale, shocked expression.
"It's nothing," she said, her voice shaky. "Just a stupid accident. It'll be fine once I get the nail back in place."
Ginny's stomach turned at the thought, unsure whether she could do it herself. More blood was welling from the injury, and now it was dripping onto the floor, mixing with the soapy water and swirling into pink islands of suds. Ginny thought she might be sick. She groped in her pocket for her handkerchief, but Draco was quicker. He took her hand gently in his and pulled out his wand.
"Anesthesio," he whispered softly, barely touching the finger.
Ginny sighed when the pain went away. She watched with a sick feeling in her stomach as he brought out his own handkerchief and covered her finger. With one quick movement, he brought his hand down and flipped the nail back into its proper position. Then he wrapped the cloth tightly around the whole. Blood was seeping through the layers of cloth already and he swore when he saw it.
"You'll have to see the healer for that," he gritted at her. His expression was cold and fixed as he stared at their clasped hands.
"Its nothing," Ginny insisted, her stomach knotting up even more. "I'll have Colin fix it. I-I'm sorry for grabbing you like that, but-you didn't have to yank away. You could have just told me to bugger off. I can take a hint, you know. But I wish you would explain things so I wouldn't get so confused."
She was doing it again; indulging in a pity party. Poor Ginny, look what the bad ol' Malfoy did to your widdle finger, she thought. 'It's my pity- party and I'll whine if I want to, whine if I want to, whine if I want to' kept running through her head. Shaking herself, she looked up into his face.
Draco looked up from the hand he was still cradling. He dropped it suddenly. "Don't you ever give it a rest, Weasley? God, you're pathetic! I can't believe you haven't figured it out yet!"
He moved away and began to pace. "Forget it, Weasley, and forget me! You said I'm not evil, but you're wrong. I'm no fucking good! Got it? If you stick around, you'll just get hurt again. Do you understand, Weasley? I am telling you to BUGGER OFF! Get lost!"
He turned and headed for the door, but Ginny was right behind him. She was hurt and confused, but she wouldn't let it go this easily. He could damned well explain what he meant.
"Wait a minute!" Ginny cried. Draco swung around, glaring down at her.
"What haven't I figured out? I don't understand. I am NOT pathetic. And you're not evil! I just won't believe that!"
Draco sneered viciously. "No? You don't think so? Well, what do you think of this, little weasel?"
With that, he ripped at his cuff, tearing the button and buttonhole, and yanked the sleeve up. There, in the pale skin of his naked forearm was the mark of a Deatheater.
Ginny felt the blood leave her face. She could only stare for a moment. No! her brain screamed. It wasn't possible! But the proof was there, marking the otherwise flawless skin. Draco Malfoy had joined his father and all his evil cohorts. He served the monster that had almost killed her in her first year. He was a Deatheater! She raised shocked, disbelieving eyes to his and saw his cold sneer turn to a malicious smile.
"Yeah, now you understand, don't you, little weasel?" he jeered. "You're right about one thing; you're not pathetic. You just have crappy taste in guys. You fall for guys who don't want you. First Creevey, who only wants to be your 'friend', then Potter, who doesn't know you're alive, and now yours truly. Well, you can forget about me, too. I'm not your bodyguard, or your knight on a shining Firebolt. This isn't some stupid romance novel, and I won't steal you away and try to make you fall for me! I've got better things to do than run around rescuing some stupid little girl who doesn't know what's good for her."
Before Ginny could react, Draco yanked the door open and left.
She stood looking at the door Draco had slammed behind him for some moments before walking shakily to it and leaning against it. Then she slid to the floor and buried her face in her hands. She waited for the tears, but they wouldn't come. She couldn't cry, at least not yet, so she thought.
Draco was a Deatheater! The thought brought back the chill she'd experienced when she'd seen his mark. She'd felt her stomach wrench, and she'd had to fight not to throw up. He was one of 'them' now! There was no denying the ugly, hated mark that had been magically impressed into his flesh. Ginny began to shiver uncontrollably, her skin feeling clammy and moist. She was sweating, and she felt horribly faint. It took a second for Ginny to realize that she was in shock. Even as the realization hit, she tried to shrug it off. She'd always thought it a convenient plot device to get the girl to faint in the hero's arms. But even if she wasn't nearly the healer Colin was, she recognized the symptoms. Leaning forward to put her head between her knees, Ginny felt the wooziness and disorientation fade.
When she straightened, though, it hit her again. Draco wasn't just a bully; he was truly evil! Why else would he have that mark on his arm? Everything she'd believed about Draco was wrong! He was not the hero she'd made him out to be, but was now one of that murderous group who preyed on people's fears and weaknesses.
All of Ginny's worst fears and nightmares began and ended with the tall, handsome dark haired boy who would grow up to be the most frightful monster of their time, and she was in love with one of his followers. Draco had been right. She was pathetic. A pathetic little girl who still dreamed of dashing heroes on sleek brooms and happy endings. Putting her head between her knees again, Ginny knew there couldn't be any happy ending to this story.
She'd been sitting on the cold floor for she didn't know how long when she heard the first faint meow.
"Labelle?" she said in a choked voice. "Is that you?"
That brought more urgent mewling, and scratching at the door. Ginny scrambled to her feet and fumbled with the doorknob. She finally got the door open and Labelle nearly pounced on her, meowing loudly with relief. Ginny held the kitten tightly and sank back to the floor. As though someone had turned on a faucet, Ginny felt her eyes fill with tears.
"Oh, Labelle! It's awful! Draco's-Draco's-oh, lord!"
Holding Labelle tightly to her, Ginny finally began to cry. Her body shook with wracking sobs that felt like they were torn from her very soul. Labelle mewled and purred and let Ginny clutch her small body against her own, until the worst of the storm had passed. When Ginny finally loosened her grip, Labelle wriggled around to snuggle into Ginny's lap, apparently content to just sit here for as long as Ginny needed her.
Leaning wearily against the door again, Ginny absently stroked the Kneazle's fur and closed her eyes, only to open them again immediately. Every time she closed her eyes, she saw Draco's forearm and that hideous mark standing out in stark relief on the pale skin. And she'd wanted that arm, both of his arms wrapped around her! She'd wanted him to kiss her and hold her. And now she only wanted to forget what she'd seen.
Her misery was almost overwhelming, but eventually Ginny knew she had to move. She had to use the loo, for one thing, and her bottom was now numb from the cold stones on the floor. Her robe was soaked, front and back and she'd begun to shiver again, which wasn't a good sign. And besides, Professor Snape might return at any time. It was a miracle he hadn't come back already! Heaving a deep sigh, Ginny roused the dozing Kneazle.
"I guess we should get back to Gryffindor, Labelle," she said. "Colin will be worried."
"Mrow?"
The kitten made what sounded like an inquiring noise, and next Ginny knew, an image of a very worried Draco entered her mind. Ginny flinched from the image and Labelle mewled softly, almost in apology.
"It's not your fault, love! You didn't know. I just don't want to think about him right now, all right?"
For once, Labelle was silent.