Note: this is actually only half of chapter 14 but I did want to get it posted. Just in case anyone wonders, I am NOT going to abandon the fic, I'm just sorry it takes so long to update. Also, in answer to a question asked some time ago about Ginny being a seeker in the witch, serpent and cupboard story, I have heard a lot about book five, and that was one thing I heard, but I still haven't read it. Anyway, back to work. K
By Saturday Ginny was torn between elation and dejection. She'd been able to see Draco a few more times since the night she'd told him about her opening of the Chamber of Secrets, and she would see him again, later today, while everyone else was in Hogsmeade. They had even discussed the possibility of eating lunch together in the great hall, but that would depend on who was still in the castle.
Unfortunately, Ginny had had another run-in with Harry. It was so strange. Harry would be completely fine until he began talking to her. Then he would seem to become another person. An extremely unpleasant other person who hated her while professing to want to go out with her. If that weren't strange enough, Harry only acted like that with her and Colin. As soon as someone else entered the conversation, Harry seemed to become himself again. She didn't like being near him anymore, and because Colin faithfully reported the encounters to Blaise who told Draco, Draco was now incensed at Harry's behavior. While she understood the blond Slytherin's concern, Ginny didn't want Draco trying to kill Harry at the first opportunity. In fact, Ginny was at the point that if she saw Harry in the common room, she would just go up to her room.
Colin had explained to Ginny that he informed Blaise of what was happening so the Slytherin prefect could tell Malfoy. He reasoned that Malfoy had a right to know if Ginny were in danger even if the danger happened to be Harry Potter. But Colin was confused, too. He'd admired Harry for years. Even after he'd gotten over the celebrity adoration phase of his first year at Hogwarts, Colin still thought very highly of the young man who had faced so much in his young life and was still a normal, decent person. This new Harry was neither normal nor decent. And because her other friends didn't see the way Harry was acting around her and Colin, Ginny guessed she didn't blame them for basically 'blowing off' her concerns.
Ginny was presently sitting at breakfast with Colin, Daisy and Dennis and trying to look dejected about being denied the privilege of going into Hogsmeade. Daisy had hesitantly offered to stay with her, but Ginny had assured her that it wasn't necessary.
"Besides," Ginny had added, pulling out her ace-in-the-hole, "Dennis is dying to go with you, you know."
Daisy had blushed, but she'd looked gratified, nonetheless.
Su had already made plans to go with Dean and, amid profuse apologies, told Ginny she couldn't stay with her today. Ginny waved it away, telling her not to worry. Su had given her a sudden look.
"You're meeting him, aren't you," she'd shrewdly asked.
Flushing, Ginny admitted it. Su had frowned. "You know, Gin, I'm sorry about before. But I do wish you'd found someone a little nicer. Someone…someone we could all hang out with, you know?"
Ginny thought about Su's words now, as breakfast was winding down. She was sure Su would have added that she wished Ginny had chosen someone who wasn't Draco Malfoy. Or someone who Su could try to push around a bit if they hung out as a group. No, Draco was unlikely to 'hang out' with Ginny's friends, even if they were openly dating. Although she wasn't positive, Ginny felt that Draco would be more of a 'spending time alone' type. Glancing quickly toward the Slytherin table, Ginny saw Draco talking quietly with Blaise Zabini. Neither young man was looking in her direction, but Ginny felt the hair on the back of her neck prickle suddenly. Scanning the table quickly, she noticed that Julius Flint was staring at her, a disgusting leer on his face. As she watched, Flint brushed his hand over his chest and changed the leer for a smirk. Before Ginny could react, she felt a heavy hand on her shoulder.
"Ginny, hey, no need to jump. It's just me."
Ginny had jumped, surprised when Harry grabbed her shoulder and slid onto the bench next to her. He was perched on the edge of the bench, his legs in the aisle between tables and his elbow resting negligently on the table. Ginny watched him warily, noting that he actually looked normal today.
"So, Gin, you still determined not to go to Hogsmeade today?"
The question was casual, but Harry's face was beginning to tighten, to take on that look he always seemed to get with her lately. Ginny glanced around him and saw Colin giving her an encouraging nod. She could count on him if she needed any help.
"Well, actually, Harry, Professor McGonagall told me I had to stay. I think I already told you that. So, no, I'm not going."
"So what are you doing today? Got big plans for the day? Meeting your mystery fellow for a little one-on-one?" Harry's mouth twisted into an eerily familiar sneer. "You know, if that's all you wanted, a quick shag, I could help you out there. You--"
He got no further before he seemed to just fly forward, off the bench to land, sprawling, on his hands and knees. Ginny blinked at Colin, who shrugged innocently, but rubbed his elbow surreptitiously. Other students were now staring, some giggling, others just looking confused, as Harry scrambled up, brushing dust from his knees. He gave Colin a vicious glare and looked ready to leap on the younger boy when Ron hurried up.
"All right, Harry? What happened? Did you trip?"
Harry's expression became bewildered. "I don't know," he answered, obviously perturbed. "I--I don't even remember getting up from the table."
Now Harry glanced around. He looked honestly confused until he heard a shout of laughter from the Slytherin table. Ginny followed the laughter and saw Draco miming Harry's fall for the benefit of his classmates. She frowned, but told herself that she shouldn't expect anything else. Draco was still Draco, and seeing his rival suddenly fall flat on his face must have been too good to pass up. Besides, Ginny couldn't help feeling a small, mean satisfaction herself at first.
"I don't know what happened, but I'm done eating," Harry said with an angry scowl toward the Slytherins. Looking back to Ron, he added, "I'll see you in the common room."
As he left, Ginny glanced at Draco in time to see him bend a single, hate-filled glare Harry's way. Then, as quickly as that, the glare was replaced by his customary smirk as he turned back to Blaise.
"Colin, did you do that?" Ginny asked a moment later when the fuss had died down.
Colin now looked aghast at his actions. "I didn't mean to knock him off, just kind of nudge him. But, I had to do something, Gin. Harry was being a real bastard."
Colin sounded aggrieved. Ginny knew the feeling. Harry had been like a brother to her for the last few years, and she did like him. It hurt to see him acting this way.
"What do you think is wrong with him? Do you think all those years with those hateful muggles is finally rubbing off on him?"
Colin shook his head. "I just don't know. It just isn't like Harry to be that way. Maybe if I talk to him…"
Now Ginny shook her head. "Just stay away from him, Colin. I plan to. I've been doing that, too. He just surprised me today. Besides," she said firmly. "No matter what we think is wrong, you know Harry. He would never tell anyone except maybe Ron or Hermione. Whatever is bothering him is something he'll have to work out himself. And since I plan to have a good day, moping about Harry's strange behavior isn't going to help. So, when do we meet up with Blaise?"
A smile lit Colin's face as he answered, "Oh, about eleven. We want to wait until everyone's left for Hogsmeade. Then we'll head to the Charms classroom. Sound all right?"
With a final glance toward the Slytherin table, Ginny said, "Sounds great."
They saw their friends off, waving from the door of the castle as Su, Dean, Daisy and Dennis left. Ron and Hermione were walking with a slightly bemused Harry and as Ginny watched them go, she felt a sudden sense of relief. It helped that she'd seen both Julius Flint and Augustus Le Strange leave, as well. Flint had shoved past her and her friends and had given her a filthy glare. Le Strange just looked nervously from one to the other. Labelle had taken off early, sending Ginny thoughts of a huge rat again. It seemed to be the same rat Labelle had been after before, making Ginny wonder if there were actually a rat clever enough to elude the intelligent Kneazle. She doubted it, though. Labelle was very smart herself. Ginny was glad the Kneazle had left, though. At least Ginny didn't have to suffer another scene with Labelle trying to attack Flint.
They remained there, at the main entry to the castle for several moments longer, as the last of the students filed past. Ginny was just turning back when she felt something brush her leg.
"Labelle! Done already, love?" she said, bending to stroke the scruffy-smooth head.
Labelle accepted the caress, then sat to begin grooming her claws. Ginny glanced around quickly, looking for Filch's cat, Mrs. Norris, but that hateful feline wasn't about at the moment. Just then, Filch slammed the door closed, nearly swiping Ginny and Colin in the process. Both teens looked at him, startled.
"If you got no business here, then take yourselves off to your rooms! There'll be no loitering in the hallways. And," he snarled as he noticed Labelle sitting tamely by Ginny's feet. "If you don't keep that filthy freak of nature away from my cat, I'll have it skinned and stuffed!"
Ginny gasped in shock, wondering what Labelle had done to elicit such a hateful reaction. She reached down to comfort the kitten, but Labelle didn't seem to need it. The Kneazle wasn't projecting anything other than a feeling of vague satisfaction. Frowning, she straightened.
"Right, then, we'll be off," she informed the caretaker.
The teens and the Kneazle made their way leisurely to the main staircase. Looking at Colin, Ginny asked, "Is it too early to go up to the charms room?"
"A little," the boy admitted, looking as disappointed as Ginny felt. They headed up the stairway, automatically dodging the odd first or second year student wandering about. "Isn't it just our luck, though? We finally find people we can really care for, and we both have to hide and sneak around."
Colin grimaced and shook his head. "I have to say, I'll be glad to graduate next year."
Ginny put a consoling arm around his shoulders. "I know what you mean. At least then we can pretty much do what we want. We could love whoever we want without worrying about what other people will say or do. Colin…"
Ginny paused, uncertain.
"What?" he asked.
"Well, Blaise. I mean, I know he's mad about you, but does he treat you well? It's just…he's so Slytherin."
Ginny looked at him, concerned. It wasn't her business, but Colin was her best friend and she wanted him to be happy. Fortunately, he seemed to understand.
Grinning, he demanded, "And Malfoy's not?"
Ginny had the decency to blush.
"Look, Gin, I know Blaise can be a bit much to take at times, but don't worry about how he treats me. Sometimes I wonder if he treats me a little too well!"
"Too well? Is there a such thing?"
Colin stared straight ahead as they stepped onto the landing. Walking down the corridor toward the next stairway, he shoved his hands into his pockets. "I don't know. But sometimes it seems like he's being careful not to scare me off, and sometimes it seems like he's just marking time, waiting for the 'right' person to come along."
Colin stopped suddenly and grabbed Ginny's arm. "Do you really think he's mad about me? I mean, really?"
Ginny was shocked. She did like Blaise even though she didn't know him well. But the little she'd seen of him was utterly and completely infatuated with her best friend. She made haste to tell Colin so.
"Colin, Blaise Zabini is completely mad about you. He's, uh," she searched for words. "He's besotted, infatuated, head over ears, over the moon, and any other ridiculous phrase you can think of. I don't think the poor man stood a chance once he talked to you! I don't know how you could think otherwise! I never doubted that he cared for you. I just want to make sure he's making you happy!"
Colin looked gratified, but worried.
"You remember earlier this week, when you and Malfoy were, well, snogging in Snape's classroom?"
Ginny blushed again. "Yeah, but what's that got to do with it?"
"Well, don't you think if Blaise really liked me, like you said, he'd want to, you know--"
Colin broke off lamely, his cheeks flushing.
"Colin, are you telling me that he hasn't kissed you yet? There is no way! I mean, even Draco said he saw you kissing. And I did, too, that day!"
Colin shook his head, then glanced down at the Kneazle, who had just brushed against his legs, mewling comfortingly.
"No, we've kissed, but that's it. Just little brushes of the mouth. I--I guess I thought it would be more, I don't know. Intense. Sometimes I get the feeling he's just playing around, and not very serious."
Now Ginny frowned. She was pretty certain that Blaise was very serious where Colin was concerned. "Do you want serious?"
He considered. "You know, I'm not sure, but I'd like to be given the choice."
Ginny thought for a minute before motioning for them to continue up the stairs.
"Well, I'll tell you one thing, Colin. I had to kiss Draco first. If I hadn't cornered him in the potions room and practically forced myself on him, he would probably still be dithering around. Maybe you'll have to take the first step."
Colin let out a dry little laugh. "Yeah, and see how it ended for you? A ripped fingernail and a wet backside and a case of delayed shock besides. I had hoped it wouldn't be so painful.
Ginny returned his rueful grin. "Well, at least you don't have to worry about getting the shock of your life immediately after. Besides, it's turned out right now, hasn't it?"
Colin nodded. "I wouldn't have chosen him for you, Gin, but now I see you two together, it's just—I don't know. You two are right together. Even Labelle's given her blessing."
The Kneazle looked up and meowed and Ginny chuckled. Bending to scratch the kitten's head again, she said, "If it weren't for Labelle and you, I would have given up, long since. Thanks, you two. You're the best!"
They had gone up to Gryffindor for a short while, watching the young kids enjoying having the run of the common room for once. Ginny remembered what a relief it was sometimes getting the older kids out of the way for a day, so she went up to her room and brushed her hair. It didn't take very long, and soon she was pacing the room thinking that eleven o'clock would never get here. Labelle sat on her bed and watched her for a few moments, then jumped off the bed and ran to the door, mewling. Before Ginny could open it, someone knocked.
When she opened it, Ginny saw a young first year girl standing there. The girl looked at her with a little smile.
"Creevey says its time," the girl announced, then zipped back the way she'd come.
"Finally!" Ginny breathed. "C'mon, Labelle, let's get out of here!"
As they neared the Charms classroom, Ginny thought she could hear someone approaching from the opposite direction. In fact, Labelle stopped and pricked up her ears.
She and Colin looked at one another, considering where they could hide if it turned out to be Filch. Before they could react, Labelle meowed and zipped off toward the newcomers. Now Ginny smiled.
"It has to be Draco. She only does that with him."
Sure enough, a moment later Draco came round the corner, the Kneazle snuggled in his arms and Blaise Zabini at his side.
"Looks like you lost something again, little weasel," he said softly as he approached her.
Ginny's breath caught in her throat. It always did when he spoke so softly and caressingly. She felt a flush creep up her face. Draco noticed, too, and raised his eyebrow.
"I can't wait to find out what you're thinking about to cause you to blush like that, angel. In fact, I'm wondering if I shouldn't try to figure it out myself."
Gently placing the kitten on the ground and drawing a meow of disappointment from her, Draco took one of Ginny's hands and pulled it to his mouth.
"Shall we?" he said, gesturing with his other hand toward the classroom.
It was already open, and Ginny saw that Blaise and Colin had gone inside. They were just moving toward the door when Blaise's head popped out.
"God, Malfoy, if you're going to make puppy eyes at your darling, at least do it somewhere private where you won't embarrass yourself!" he said with a smirk. "How ever do you put up with him, Gin? He's absolutely pathetic as soon as he sees you."
Ginny grinned while Draco wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her toward the door.
"You're a fine one to talk, Zabini. If I have to hear one more time about how perfect Creevey is, I'll spew. No offense, Creevey," he added as he saw the younger boy staring at him with a startled expression. "I mean, I'm sure you're wonderful and all, or the little weasel wouldn't like you, but I have to hear it all day! Can't you do something about that? Gag him or something?"
Colin looked nonplussed. He opened his mouth to respond, but no sound came out. Closing his mouth he looked at Blaise. Ginny looked, too, just in time to see Blaise shoot Colin a devastating smile.
"I could think of something that would keep me quiet," he said as he approached Colin. Blaise took one of Colin's hands and pulled it to his lips. "Want to guess?" he added, just before brushing a light kiss across Colin's knuckles.
Now tell me you don't think he's mad about you, Ginny thought, feeling her own pulse speed up at watching her friend being wooed so openly. She was also pleased to see the pink flush across Colin's cheek. If Blaise weren't mad about Colin, he wouldn't make such blatantly suggestive remarks in front of others, would he?
"Good God, Zabini, I think I said it before. Get a room! Don't you think you can do better for yourself, Creevey?"
Colin dragged his gaze from Blaise's and gave Draco a lopsided smile that Ginny had never seen before. "Not really, no," he said quietly. "But you're right. This isn't the time or place."
Looking back to the tall Slytherin still holding his hand, Colin said, "So, what are you working on?"
Ginny saw them exchange a grin before Blaise dropped his hand. "Something Malfoy asked me about. I'm not sure if it will work. The principle is sound, but I haven't much experience in this type of charm. At any rate, we'll see soon enough. Now, Malfoy, you have that thing?"
Ginny glanced at Draco. He nodded and released her to delve into a pocket of his robe. He pulled something out, but kept it hidden in his hand. Taking Ginny by the arm, he led her to one of the tables and had her sit. Labelle hopped up onto her lap and then onto the table, watching the teens with interest. Colin and Blaise joined them, taking seats opposite Ginny and Draco. Finally, when they were all sitting, Draco placed an object on the table.
Ginny looked at it curiously, then back to Draco. "It's very pretty, but what's this about?" she asked. "What do you need with that?"
She motioned to the object, a silver locket without a chain. It was an oval with an intricate pattern across the front.
"Open it," Draco said, watching her closely.
Ginny looked at the others, noting that they were also watching her carefully. Labelle nosed the locket, then sat back and gave a quiet purr. Grinning, Ginny picked up the delicate piece. It had a small catch that Ginny depressed. Running her thumbnail along the seam, she pulled the locket open.
"Oh, wow," she breathed as she looked inside.
Two incredibly detailed miniature portraits had been painted inside the locket. One was of herself, smiling and open-eyed, and the other was of a very somber Draco.
"It's really beautiful," she said. "How long—,"
Draco cut her off. "It doesn't matter. As long as you like it."
Ginny glanced, embarrassed, at the boys watching her so intently. "Of course I like it. I love it. It's beautiful. But I don't understand. Is this a present?"
And if it were, why would Draco give it to her here, in front of Colin and Blaise? She glanced again at the delicate locket, hardly believing that Draco had something like this, let alone carried in his pocket. If she had any doubt of his feelings, the locket seemed to prove that he cared for her.
Draco suddenly released the breath he was holding. "Thank God," he breathed. "I was worried you might not care for it. It is a present of sorts, but you had to approve. Now we can get on with it."
Ginny was still confused, but she held her questions as she saw Draco remove the wand from his pocket. He took the locket from her fingers, taking time to gently squeeze her hand, then set it on the table.
"I'm good, but I haven't tried anything like this before. Best stand back a bit."
Lifting his wand, he began to chant quietly, but stopped suddenly.
"Bloody hell," he exclaimed, disgusted. "Nearly ruined it before I started. Angel, I need these."
Before Ginny realized what he was doing, Draco reached up and pulled the backing off of one of the tiny golden stud earrings she always wore. They weren't real gold, of course, but she'd worn them so long, she didn't even notice them anymore. He removed first one, then the other earring, and opened the locket. Ginny wondered how on earth Draco Malfoy had gotten so good at removing ear studs when she saw him place one inside the locket. Setting the other beside the locket, he took up his wand again.
"Don't worry, angel," he said when he saw her look of consternation. "I'll get you some new ones. I just needed something that was yours."
Ginny glanced up to see how the other two boys were taking this strange behavior, but both were still intent on watching Draco. Even Labelle seemed to sense something; she was watching the locket and earring, her amber eyes glittering.
As Draco began to chant again, Ginny felt her eyes drawn not to the locket, but to his face. He was concentrating intently, as though this were a life or death issue instead of, as she suspected, a bit of transfiguration. His light eyes darkened and his smooth brow furrowed. His lips thinned as he formed the words to his incantation, which was much more involved than anything she'd ever heard before. She saw from the corner of her eye when he actually cast the spell, and then he closed his eyes, swiping a hand over his face.
"That was…wow! Never saw anything like that before."
Colin was whispering, as though reluctant to speak and possibly break the spell. Pulling her gaze from the blond Slytherin, Ginny looked at the locket and gasped.
The locket was gone. Instead, a long silver chain, intricately wrought and gleaming as thought freshly polished, floated a few inches from the table. A gold pendant in the shape of a twined lion and dragon hung from the chain, while a tiny golden ring, with a smaller pendant of the same shape lay below on the surface of the table. She looked at Draco in awe.
It was difficult enough to change the shape of things, especially when one was changing an animate object to an inanimate object. But to not only change the shape, but to create such detail and have the objects interact with one another, as a pendant actually strung on a chain, took intense concentration and talent. It was little wonder Draco had felt the strain of such a spell.
"Beautiful, Malfoy. And perfect, as well. Will the spell hold, do you think?"
Ginny had reached out to touch the chain, but at Blaise's words, she pulled her hand back quickly.
"It should," he said. "Nothing I've transfigured so far has changed back before I did it myself. Now, Zabini, it's your turn."
"Hold on," Ginny said, grabbing Draco's arm. "Will someone please tell me what's going on here?"
Draco smiled at her, the special smile that she'd only ever seen him give her. Her heart fluttered, but she wasn't going to give it up.
"Now, don't try to tell me nothing's going on," she began.
"Of course something's going on, angel. We're trying to protect you. Just wait. You'll see if Zabini will shift his lazy arse."
Blaise smirked as he gathered up the chain and stud. He held them for a few seconds as though testing the weight in his hand. His smirk disappeared as he glanced, startled, at the couple.
"Here, Colin, hold these and see what you think," he said suddenly, taking Colin's hand and dropping the items into the outstretched palm. "Your hands are more sensitive than mine."
Colin held the chain and stud as Blaise had, but he didn't look startled. He actually flashed a smug smile at Blaise. "Told you, didn't I. It's just right."
Now Ginny was beginning to become annoyed. "What's just right?" she demanded.
"The feel of these. They are things that belonged to both of you and when Malfoy melded them, they balanced out perfectly. There isn't too much of either personality. That doesn't happen often."
Ginny was still confused, but she couldn't help feeling pleased. "And is that important?"
"Well," Blaise admitted, "it isn't vital exactly, but it makes my spell easier. Now, you three sit there, and you, young Kneazle, no nosing until I'm done."
Ginny, Draco and Colin sat while Labelle meowed a bit huffily. Ginny stroked the Kneazle gently. She was burning with curiosity, but she would find out what was going on sooner or later, she was sure.
It was Blaise's turn to concentrate. He gently took the items from Colin and set them carefully on the table, several centimeters apart. Pulling out his wand, he waved it over them a few times, as though getting the feel of the wand. Then he whispered words so softly Ginny couldn't make any of them out. She watched, awed, as the objects began to glow faintly. The golden ring and pendants began to emit a yellow-golden gleam, while the delicate chain appeared lit with the purest white light. As Blaise continued to chant, the two items moved. They slid slowly toward the other. Just as they were about to touch, Blaise cried, "What shall now join, shall always the other seek!"
A loud clap, almost sounding of thunder, rang in the room as the two pieces struck one another. Ginny stared, wide-eyed, as a final, almost blinding flare burst from them, and then the glow faded.
"I'll have to agree with Colin," Ginny said breathlessly. "That was…wow!"
Blaise stowed his wand again, ignoring her. He grabbed her hand instead and said, "Take it, quickly. Take the chain and hold it tight!"
Ginny gasped in surprise, but his anxiety was infectious. She grabbed the chain, gathering its length into one palm and squeezing her fingers around it. She saw that Draco had done the same with the small ring. When they were both holding tightly to the pieces, they looked at Blaise.
He stared at them, his expression serious. "Right, then. Now, I made the activation spell a simple one. Latin is fine when you have the time to think of the right words. It wouldn't do to be fumbling around for the right words when you're in danger. It would be both impractical and obstructive. And believe me, that should be the only type of situation it is used in. Now, if you need to use it, and let us pray to God and all minor deities that you never do, you only need to say, 'Seek your mate'. Do you understand?"
Draco nodded soberly, but Ginny frowned. "This is a sort of locating spell?" she asked, finally catching on. "You really think this is necessary?"
Draco pulled her around and looked into her eyes. "I told you I would kill Flint if he ever hurt you. But I don't underestimate him, and I can't help you if I can't find you. I hope it isn't necessary, but I won't take that chance. Now," he said, stepping away from her and lifting his clenched fist to his mouth. "'Seek your mate!'"
Ginny felt something, like a tug, through the back of the hand holding the chain. It was a strange feeling, almost as though she had a thread running right through her palm out of the back of her hand, which someone was lightly yanking. Draco moved to the opposite side of the table and Ginny realized that the direction of the tugging sensation was following him. Or rather, it was following his tightly fisted hand.
She followed the tug, extending her arm until their hands finally met. The sensation disappeared.
"Oh, my God," she whispered. "That is the most amazing thing I've ever seen!"
It perhaps wasn't, but at the moment she wasn't going to second-guess herself. Looking up, she saw a trio of satisfied faces gazing back at her. Draco suddenly let out a whoop and gathered her in his arms, swinging her up and then setting her back on her feet. Colin was grinning like an idiot and Blaise looked smugly superior.
"Just how long have you three been planning this?" Ginny asked, pleased, but piqued that they hadn't said anything to her.
Blaise placed an arm around Colin's shoulders and said, "Malfoy asked me about it before the quidditch match. Asked if he thought I could do something like this."
Ginny turned to stare at the blond boy standing next to her. "Before the quidditch match? But you weren't even talking to me then! For, like, two weeks!"
Blaise answered before Draco had a chance. "It doesn't mean he wasn't thinking about you, little sister," he said, grinning when she started at his form of address. "Remember, he asked me to help watch out for you long before that; even before he, er, showed you his forearm. And as I understand the situation, the only reason the git wouldn't speak to you after was because he could not seem to understand that revealing his miserable secret to you in the way he had, while stupid and unthinking, was not unforgivable. He was afraid you would be unwilling to speak to him again."
Ginny turned to Draco, her eyes wide.
"Gee, thanks, Zabini," he said sarcastically, giving the other Slytherin a pained expression. "But hey, guess what? My mother actually taught me how to speak for myself!"
"Perhaps, Malfoy," Blaise agreed, smirking. "But she unfortunately never taught you tact. I'm only trying to ensure you don't place that oversized hoof in your equally oversized mouth again."
Ginny and Colin exchanged smiles. Blaise once again seemed to have gotten in the last word. Draco rolled his eyes and wrapped his arm around Ginny. "Remember that conversation we were having earlier, Creevey? Well, now would probably be a good time to cover the prat's mouth. He seems to be babbling."
Ginny giggled at the look on Colin's face. His cheeks turned pink and he looked wonderfully confused. She was about to tease him when Draco got her attention.
"Ready to go, angel?" he asked quietly. "I have some things I want to do, and something else to show you. Then we'll meet these two for lunch. Is that all right?"
"That sounds great. But, hang on just a sec."
Ginny pulled away and hurried toward the other two young men. Stopping before Blaise, she looked up into his face, no longer seeing the hated image of Tom Riddle. She saw him now as he was; arrogant, probably demanding, very self-confident, and hopelessly enamored of her best friend. And he was now her friend. Grinning, she reached up and wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Thank you, Blaise!" she said as he hugged her back.
"Not a problem, sis," he replied lightly. "Just watch how you use that charm. Don't overuse it or it might not function properly when it's needed."
Ginny then gave Colin a hug, thanking him, too.
"Sure thing, Gin. Now, better let go before Malfoy decides to take my head off."
Ginny whirled, but Draco was only looking mildly annoyed. She gave Colin a glare, which he laughed at.
"Are you quite done pawing other boys?" Draco asked, his voice dry. "Because I really feel like I should remind you that I'm the one you're supposed to be pawing."
"You," she said, sticking her nose in the air, "are a tactless git! I'm just thanking them."
"And what about my thanks?" he demanded, taking her hand.
Ginny narrowed her eyes and gave him a quick, seductive smile. "That is best left for when we're alone," she answered quietly.
Not quietly enough, obviously, because Colin cleared his throat and said, "Yet another think I would rather not have heard. You two really need to get a room!"
Laughing, Draco tugged Ginny to the door, and after making sure no one was in the corridor, pulled her from the room. The Kneazle followed them, but soon made for a different corridor.
"Labelle, aren't you coming with us?" Ginny called.
Labelle was nearly sauntering as she made her way back to the two teens. Ginny gave Draco a questioning look, but he just shrugged. Kneeling next to the kitten, Ginny stroked her fur.
"Where are you off to, then?"
An image of Mrs. Norris, running scared and with her fur on end drifted through Ginny's head. Her eyes widened and she covered her mouth. "No, Labelle, you naughty creature! You leave that poor cat alone!"
Purring, Labelle rubbed against Ginny's legs, gave Draco a meow and took off.
"She's not really, is she?" Draco asked, watching her go.
Ginny shook her head. "I just hope Filch doesn't catch her."
"So, where are we going?" Ginny asked as they walked up a flight of stairs. "We're not going to the library, are we? I mean, I don't want to find that book again, and besides, Madame Pince isn't all that happy with me. She always eyes me when I go there now."
"I'm not her favorite person, either," Draco admitted. "She's convinced I've somehow stolen the thing and I understand she's been calling for my suspension on a weekly basis. So, no, we're not going to the library. Besides, what I want to show you requires a lot more privacy."
Flushing, the girl tentatively took his hand. Draco looked at their hands, then at Ginny before brushing a kiss across the back of her wrist. She honestly expected him to drop her hand after, but he didn't. Instead, he pulled her arm through his and continued on without a word.
Ginny had experienced an overwhelming array of emotions in this boy's company, but this was the first time she'd felt this unalloyed happiness. Just about anyone could see them, if anyone happened along. They were in one of the more heavily trafficked hallways. And while most of the school population was in Hogsmeade at the moment, there were enough students left that the possibility of getting caught together was quite real. She wasn't going to question it, though. She would just enjoy it as long as she could. Besides, Ginny thought somewhat fatalistically, given their track record, something horrible was bound to happen eventually, so why invite more misery?
They hadn't gone far when Ginny knew where he was taking her.
"The music room?" she said quietly.
Draco looked at her and shrugged. "Do you mind? It is private."
"Not at all," she answered. "I like it there. Some of my best school memories happen to be in that room."
She smiled playfully at the young man beside her, but he didn't smile back. Instead, his eyes seemed to burn into hers. "Really," he said, not quite making it a question. "If my own best memories weren't in the same room, I'd have to say that you've lived a sheltered life, Weasley."
Ginny laughed softly. "I probably have," she agreed. "But it doesn't change the fact."
They lapsed into silence as Draco led her along the maze of corridors that she still got lost in.
"How on earth did you ever find your way back here after the first time?" Ginny finally asked.
"Easy," Draco remarked, releasing her arm to pull out his wand. "Like this."
He tapped the wall with his wand, revealing a bright white arrow. "I marked it when I was following your brothers. I wanted to make sure I could drag Snape or Filch back if I caught them doing that would cost house points. Anyway, I never removed the marks, just faded them."
"Brilliant!" Ginny said, smoothing right over the fact that he'd been trying to get her brothers in trouble when he'd first found the room. Besides, it wasn't like George or Fred ever needed help getting in trouble. They'd done enough of that all on their own. "Could I make the marks stand out?"
"Yeah, it's a simple spell," he answered, returning his wand to his pocket. Then he leaned close so she could see his eyes glittering at her. "Just better not bring anyone else up here! I might have to be jealous."
Ginny laughed. "As if you need a reason!" she retorted.
She was surprised when he grabbed her shoulders and pulled her to face him. "No, I don't," he said seriously. "You're you, and that's the only reason I need."
"Now wait just one second, Malfoy," she began. "Are you trying to say…"
"I'm saying that I can't stand the thought of anyone else near you. I hate that I can only see you like this, sneaking around. I don't want to share you with anyone, even if Zabini has pounded it into my head that that's a good way to drive you off. I don't even want to share your time with Creevey, even though I know how important your friends are." He stopped and visibly pulled himself together. Releasing her shoulders, he said, "I could give a fuck about anyone else at this school, except maybe Zabini and Creevey, but you are too important to me to let you go. So, yeah, I'm jealous. I'll try to control it, but it's always going to be there." Brushing his long hair back from his face he added, "Can you live with it?"
To say she was surprised at this outburst would have been to grossly understate the matter. Ginny was absolutely floored. Not only at the admission that he would always be jealous, but also at the vehemence in his declaration. He sounded almost fanatical! It was exciting, but frightening, as well. Slowly, carefully, she took a step closer, closing the distance between them.
"Then," she said, her voice barely a whisper, "I'll have to make sure you don't have any reason to be jealous, right?"
Draco looked down at her hand and swallowed. Then he took it in his and kissed it. He led her along the corridor again for a few minutes before he said, "Look, angel, I'm--I'm sorry. It shouldn't be this hard for you. I'll--,"
He paused, but Ginny guessed the rest. He'd try to be better or some twaddle like that. Whatever it was, she didn't want to hear it, not from this boy. It was one thing to hear him tell her how much he cared. It was quite another to hear him apologize for it. She was glad she couldn't see his face right now. The thought of Draco Malfoy humbled in any way was too much for her.
"Draco," she said, cutting off whatever he was going to say. "You'd better kiss me soon, or I'll think you don't really want to."
She heard him suck his breath in quickly, felt his hand squeeze hers almost painfully. Then they were moving, Draco nearly dragging her along the passageways toward the small music room. He opened the door in record time and dragged her in. Slamming the door, Draco pushed Ginny back against it. Ginny barely had time to breathe, let alone think as Draco forced her hard against the door, his body pressed against hers, his mouth covering hers. She opened for him instantly, wrapping her arms around him. Blushing several shades, Ginny fought the urge to wrap her legs around him, as well. She settled for rocking against his lower body, as he'd done the first time they'd been in here.
He groaned and tried to pull away, but she wouldn't let him. Locking her arms around his neck, Ginny shamelessly crushed her breasts against his chest. He pulled her into another kiss.
"Dear God," he breathed after several moments. "I could kiss you forever."
"Then why don't you?" she whispered, hoping she sounded seductive and not childish.
"Because," he answered, swallowing hard, but firmly removing her arms from his neck, "I, or we, rather, have something to do, first. Then we can kiss or do anything else you want."
"It had better be important," she pouted. "Because we don't get all that much time together."
"Don't I know it," Draco answered, leading her to the center of the room. "Now, angel, where's your chain?"
Ginny frowned and reached into her pocket. The chain was certainly marvelous, but not nearly as nice as snogging the beautiful Slytherin in front of her, holding out his hand.
"Here," she said, reaching to hand it to him. "Now what?"
He smiled. Ginny shivered at the slow, sneaky, sexy smile that covered his face. "Now I put it on you."
"Uh, okay," she said shakily. She had somehow expected something more. He could have put the necklace on her in the charms classroom, after all, couldn't he? Lifting her hair, she turned round so he could clasp it around her neck.
"Not there, little weasel," he murmured. "Turn around."
Ginny turned round again, confused. It was rather long, but wasn't it a necklace? It certainly wouldn't fit her wrist or ankle. Draco pocketed the chain and stepped in front of her.
"It doesn't go round your neck, little weasel," he said, his voice so low it sent shivers down her spine.
He reached for the fastening of her robe and Ginny let him. "It goes round your waist, angel, and I'm going to put it there. Right?"
Ginny could feel her pulse race as she caught on. Nodding, she lowered her eyes and watched his slender fingers make short work of all the fastenings on her robe. He lifted his hands to the collar of the garment and slid them under, pushing it back, off her shoulders. Ginny shrugged slightly, letting it slide down her arms to slither to the ground. Now she looked into Draco's eyes. The pupils looked huge, making his eyes appear much darker than normal. He was now watching his fingers as they moved to hem of the light jumper she wore.
"I don't want anything in the way," he said thickly. His hands didn't move, though.
Ginny understood. He was waiting for permission. She nodded. "Nothing should be in the way," she agreed, lifting her arms over her head.
Releasing a breath, a sigh, really, Draco lifted the jumper. He slid it up, over her head and off her arms. Ginny could feel her breasts tingle and the nipples tighten, and he had only removed her jumper. She gulped. She still wore a blouse, but beneath was only an old, tiny wisp of a bra that was easily seen through.
Another shiver of heat snaked through her, coiling in the pit of her belly as his fingers touched the first button of her blouse. He stopped. As their eyes met, Ginny smiled. She lifted her hand to his, urging him on, wishing he would be wearing a chain round his waist as well, so she could return the favor. Although he had gone through the robe fastenings like a pro, now his fingers grew clumsy. He couldn't seem to get the tiny buttons through the holes and almost tore the first one right off.
"God, angel," he gritted out. "I can't—I'm just too nervous!"
He dropped his hands, a disgusted expression on his face. "I've never been this nervous before," he muttered.
Ginny didn't know whether to be angry or amused. Amusement won. "Make it a habit of undressing defenseless females, Malfoy?" she demanded, fighting not to smile.
"Of course not!" he said. "I didn't mean that. I meant--,"
He stopped when he saw that she was teasing him. "You," he said, narrowing his eyes and pretending to reach for her neck. "You are evil, woman!"
Grinning, she said, "Wicked. There is a difference. Do you want me to do it?"
Draco took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "No, I want to. I want to do this just right."
He looked into her eyes again, and Ginny felt her breath catch in her throat. Was this it? Had he brought her here to make love to her? When she finally remembered to breathe, it was in tiny, whispery little pants that made her chest rise and fall rapidly. She felt like she might pass out.
"All—all right, Draco," she said. "I'm ready."
He nodded and lifted his hands once more. This time they seemed to know just what to do. His fingers deftly slipped the buttons from the holes until the blouse was hanging loose on her. Ginny saw him swallow again before easing the garment open.
"Oh, my lord!" he groaned when he caught sight of her bra.
It was old. Ginny had worn it for comfort. But it was so worn that the material of the cups was paper-thin and did nothing to hide her dark, tight nipples from his sight. She instinctively moved to cross her arms, but he would not let her. Sliding his hands under the blouse, he slipped it off, as he had the robe, then grazed his hands down her arms, grasping her above the elbows. Pulling her to him, he nuzzled her neck.
"You're so perfect," he said quietly, his breath warm against her throat. If possible, the hard peaks grew tighter. "I could look at you, like this, all day. Is this for me?"
He brushed his thumb over one of the painfully hard nubs, causing her to gasp.
"I think so," he answered his own question with a smile. "But not yet! First things first."
Stepping back, Draco gazed at her. He started at her face and moved his way down slowly, until Ginny was practically vibrating with the need to do something! She was about to ask him why he was waiting, but he finally spoke.
"I think this might get in the way, too."
He gestured to her simple skirt and Ginny's face flamed. Oh, God, she thought. This is it! Ginny saw that he was waiting again, but instead of answering, she reached behind her for the skirt's zipper. Before Draco could move, she had it unzipped and was pushing it off of her hips.
"Angel," he whispered hoarsely when Ginny stood before him in only her underthings and a pair of plain knee socks.
Don't just stand there, she silently pleaded. Do something! Almost as though he had heard her thoughts, Draco closed the small distance between them and pulled her into a hard embrace. His hands seemed to be everywhere, causing liquid heat to course through her blood. She gasped when he grabbed her bottom and dragged her against him. When he tried to kiss her, though, Ginny placed her hands on his chest and held him back.
"I think it's my turn," she said shakily, feeling very defenseless in just her knickers and bra while he was still fully dressed.
His half lidded eyes opened at that. "You're trying to kill me, aren't you, angel?"
"Fair is fair," she insisted, reaching for his robe. He held her off.
"Almost your turn, little weasel," he said quickly. "Let me finish and then you can do anything you want with me!"
Her eyebrows rose sharply, but she nodded. "Now what?"
"Just this," he said, fishing into a pocket. He pulled the chain out and motioned for her to turn around.
Ginny turned, back to him, extremely nervous. He stepped behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist. She looked down to see the slender, nimble fingers work the catch of the chain, then open it. He let the pendant drop to the very edge of her plain knickers, then tugged it up, pulling the ends together to fasten the chain. Ginny almost hissed when the cool metal touched her skin, but it was so smooth and sinuous, it felt alive! She watched, fascinated, as Draco allowed it to fall fully against her skin. Her breathing caused the fine, smooth chain to slither and roll up and down her gently rounded belly, the pendant swinging back and forth to tickle her lightly.
"It feels so…I don't know, alive!" she said, echoing her thoughts. "How did you do that?"
"I wanted you to think of me whenever you felt it," he said hoarsely. "So you wouldn't forget me when those Brazilian men are trying to get your attention."
She was about to laugh, to reassure him, but his hands skimmed down her waist to her hips, pulling her back into his arms. When she was leaning against him, he allowed his hands to come up, cupping her small breasts. Although Ginny froze at first, she covered his hands with hers before he could pull away.
"Don't," she whispered. "I was just surprised. I don't want you to stop."
"I'll," he squeaked, then cleared his throat. "I'll remember you said that," he continued in a thick voice. "But now it's your turn."
Ginny felt his hands on her hips again, turning her.
"Remember, angel, I'm yours. Whatever you want."
Now Ginny swallowed. She was about to lift her hands to his robe again when his hand dipped into his pocket once more. She waited. As he opened his fist, she saw that he was holding the small ring.
"Just one thing, angel," he said. "You have to find somewhere to put this on me."
Ginny's eyes nearly popped open. "Beg pardon?" she stammered. The ring wouldn't fit on any of his fingers. What could he possibly mean?
He smirked at her. "It's like an earring, little weasel. Don't look so shocked. I didn't mean that, and anyway, I can assure you it would be much too small. But I can't suddenly start wearing an earring, especially one so obvious. So, I was thinking that I might become rebellious and get some part of my body pierced. Just make sure you chose your location carefully."
If possible, her eyes grew wider.
"Draco Malfoy! Are you asking me to pierce you?"
"That's exactly what I'm asking, angel. What's the matter? Scared?" His smirk was infuriating.
"Hell, yes!" Ginny snapped. "I'm not going to stick some—some earring through your skin! Are you mad?"
He narrowed his eyes at her. "If you don't, Weasley, I will. And I won't be gentle."
"That's not fair! That's blackmail!" Ginny stomped a foot, unaware of how it made certain parts of her body bounce enticingly.
Trying not to stare, Draco said sweetly, "Of course it is. Now, angel, where should I stick it? I'd suggest the eyebrow, but that's too obvious. There's always the nipple, but it could get in the way, and it would be an awkward reach."
His eyes were dancing as he motioned vaguely toward his crotch. "This would be unusual to say the least, but I have to point out that—,"
"All right!" Ginny said, grabbing the ring and pulling it open. It was just like an earring. She promptly stuck it through one of the holes in her own earlobe. "Maybe I should wear this and you should wear the chain!"
"No, for two reasons," Draco said, grasping her hips and holding her. "One, you look much too sexy in it. I want to see it on you. More important, though, if anything does happen to you, the first thing Flint will do is look for a piece of jewelry that might be charmed. He would suspect earrings, watches, rings, or even a necklace. But it will take him time to come across that chain, and I'd need that time to find you. Right? So, little weasel, stop stalling and let's get this done."
Ginny bit her lip and shivered. She wasn't cold, but the thought of shoving the ring through any portion of his anatomy was chilling. He took her hand in both of his and pulled her closer again.
"Look, angel, you didn't even flinch when you saw the mess I'd made of my arm. This is just a little stick. Just a little pinch and it's over. But first you have to decide where to put it."
She considered, just for a second, telling just where he could put it. She didn't, though. She wasn't mad at him, but she was nervous. And she was standing here, half naked while he was still fully dressed. Now that wasn't fair. And hadn't she just been wishing that he had something to wear at his waist? Ginny had a sudden idea. A small grin lifted the corners of her mouth as she looked up at him.
"All right, then, Malfoy," Ginny said sweetly. "Anywhere I want?"
He gave her a nervous look before nodding. "That's what I said, but there are a few places I'd rather not have it!"
Now Ginny smiled. "But it's still my choice? Good! I guess I'd better take a look around, then, right?"
She rapidly unfastened his robe and pushed it off without ceremony. He was wearing a pullover jumper, casual but spotless blue jeans and the same scuffed trainers she'd noticed the first time she'd seen him in the library. Lifting her hands to the jumper, Ginny said, "May I?"
"Anything," he said quietly, lifting a hand to her face. "I already told you, Weasley. I'm yours. You don't have to ask."
The smile disappeared. Ginny felt an overwhelming sense of power at his words, but she also felt a large dose of trepidation. Draco Malfoy, who loved to manipulate others, was giving her complete control here. It was a little overwhelming.
"Angel?"
Ginny looked up into his eyes, trying to blink away the sting of tears in her own. He brushed his thumb against her cheek and smiled.
"Do your worst, little weasel. I'm ready."
She had to laugh at that. Concentrating, she let her hands slip under the jumper. She almost jumped when she touched bare skin. Draco did jump. He sucked in his breath and reached for her shoulders.
"Please, angel, don't stop," he whispered.
That's not bloody likely, now is it? she asked herself as her breathing grew rapid once more. She slid her hands up, over the thin waist, to his ribs. Ginny let her hands rest on his chest, her thumbs brushing the tiny, hard nubs of his nipples. He stiffened, his jaw tight.
"Not wicked, little weasel. Evil to the core!" he gritted.
Ginny laughed softly and pushed at the knitted garment again. "Let go, Draco. I can't get this thing off!" she complained when the jumper was rucked up under his arms.
He obligingly lifted them, letting her push it up farther. She couldn't reach to pull it completely off, but when Draco was trying to tug it off of his arms, she used the opportunity to lean forward and plant a kiss in the middle of his chest. Then she giggled.
"What?" Draco said, his voice muffled by the material of his sweater. He seemed to be stuck. "What're you laughing at?"
Ginny rubbed her face against the down-soft, light hair in the center of his chest. It formed a thin trail down his abdomen, thinning further still to disappear beneath his belt. Ginny had seen his torso naked before, on that night he'd drunk all the Ogden's, but she'd been distracted by the bruising and the horrible wound in his arm. Now that she really had a chance to look, she was going to take advantage. The dusting of fine hair had tickled her nose and she couldn't help ruffling it with her breath and her fingers.
"What the hell are you doing down there, little weasel?" Draco demanded, finally freeing himself of the clinging garment. "It tickles!" he complained.
"I was just thinking that it's like a map," Ginny said playfully, running her finger along the path the fine hair was making. "Leading to a hidden treasure."
Glancing up at him, she saw his eyebrows shoot up. "Should I follow the map?"
Again his eyes grew shades darker than normal. Ginny felt a little tremor at the intensity of his look. Taking her hand from where it had come to rest on his chest, he said, "All yours, angel. Whatever you want."
He released her hand. Blushing, Ginny let her fingers stray to the silver buckle of the thin black belt he was wearing. She was about to say something, she didn't know what, when his eyes slid from her face to a point near her ear. He grabbed her hands.
"First, though," he said in a strangled voice, "the ring. Do that first."
Damn! she thought. Damn, damn, DAMN! Too many distractions! But he wasn't going to let it go, so Ginny swallowed back the disappointment and nodded.
"All right. Where do you want it?"
"Where do you want it?" he returned. "It's your choice. Somewhere under my clothes, but other than that, there's only one place I'd prefer you don't put it."
His eyebrows waggled suggestively and Ginny felt her flush deepen. She hadn't truly considered that, even though she had heard about such things. Clearing her throat nervously, she looked at his chest. In her mind, though, there was really only one place she could put it.
"Fancy a navel ring, Malfoy?" she said, trying for a joking tone.
"Much more than I fancy a nipple ring," he answered with a relieved breath. "Think you can do it, angel?"
Ginny took the tiny ring from her ear and examined it. "Is it enchanted to do the piercing itself?" she asked. "Or do I have to try to shove it through?"
"Don't worry, angel. Put it where you want it, and it'll do the rest. Right?"
"Thank God!" she breathed, looking into his eyes. "I don't think I could have done the other."
He smiled and took her hand. Kissing it, he directed it downward.
"You're sure you want to do this first?" Ginny was stalling. "I mean, the discomfort might interfere with my, uh, treasure hunt?"
Draco looked surprised, and then burst out laughing. "Believe me, little weasel, there isn't enough discomfort in the world to interfere with that!"
Embarrassed, but pleased, Ginny straightened her shoulders and concentrated on the task at hand. His flat belly tightened when her hands brushed against it, but Ginny didn't really notice. She moved the opening of the ring so that a tiny pinch of flesh at the edge of his navel was tucked inside. She wasn't sure if she had to invoke the piercing charm or not, but before she could ask the ring clamped itself shut, burying it's ends in his flesh.
Draco gasped and Ginny's eyes flew to his face. He was biting his lip, but even as she was about to apologize he released it and grinned.
"That wasn't nearly as bad as I thought," he said reassuringly. "Just a little sting. I can't even feel it anymore."
"Are you sure?" Ginny looked down again, not too surprised to see a small trickle of blood from the wound.
"I'm sure, angel," he said. "Here, I'll show you!"
He reached for the ring, but Ginny brushed his hand away. She wiped the blood away with her thumb, noting that it had already stopped bleeding. She couldn't help staring at her thumb for a few seconds.
"You did this for me," she said in a soft whisper. "You—you're bleeding for me! Draco! I don't want you to bleed for me! Promise you won't let yourself get hurt because of me!"
He took her face roughly in his hands. "Too late for that one, angel," he said. "You're not Juliet and I'm no Romeo, but if you think I'd ever let Flint or anyone else touch you, you're insane. This," he said, motioning to the pierced navel, "is nothing. You coming for me in the middle of the night, now that is something. And you loving me, wanting me even when you knew what I was, that was…a miracle. What do I care about a few drops of blood, when it's for you? Besides, if anything happened to you, nothing else would matter anyway. What would I do without my angel?"
Ginny stared at him in wonder. If her folks, her friends, even Ron had heard that admission, they'd never again doubt this boy. He seemed to be laying himself open to her, letting her see something of him no one else ever had. Ginny felt a rush of love like nothing she'd ever experienced before. Reaching instinctively, she tangled her fingers in his long hair and pulled his mouth to hers.
His arms came up immediately to wrap around her, his hands moving to bury themselves in her own tresses. He kissed her, hard and deep, causing Ginny to whimper with want. She tried to mold herself against him, to press even harder into his long, lean body. Draco shuddered and pulled away suddenly.
"Angel…" he said raggedly, staggering back a few steps. "I don't think…"
He stopped and raked a hand through his hair. "I want you," he said. "That's pretty obvious. I just don't know if I can control myself."
Ginny had felt how much he wanted her. It had caused the most incredible longings in herself. She wanted him, too. Instead of answering, she looked down to the chain around her waist. "Seek your mate," she breathed.
Oh, lord! she thought as she felt the spell take effect. It felt as though some sort of force, some thread of sensation was tugging at her everywhere the chain touched her skin. It tingled, causing another sort of tingling to travel from her belly to her very center. It was unbelievable. Looking up, she saw Draco's eyes grow dark.
"Ginny!" he whispered as he closed the space between them. Then he was on her, gathering her into his arms and carrying her to the small platform.
Depositing her gently, he reached for his belt, his eyes burning into hers. She held her breath as the jeans slid effortlessly down his lean legs. Dragging her eyes from his, she let them roam down his body until she reached the dark, silky undergarment he wore. His arousal was even more obvious and even though her cheeks were burning, Ginny couldn't look away.
"Are you sure?" he asked, his voice high and strained.
Swallowing hard, Ginny finally looked up. "I'm sure," she said, reaching for his hand.
With a soft groan, Draco dropped beside her and gathered her close. His mouth sought hers while one hand lifted to cup her aching breast. She moaned into his mouth when he brushed the tip with a hard thumb. Then his mouth followed his hand.
She gasped as he pushed her back roughly and moved to cover her body with his. Eyes wide, she searched his face. His eyes were closed tightly, a small grimace of concentration covering his face. Ginny's heart started to pound as his knee slipped between her legs, nudging them open. He was going too fast! Even though her body was pounding with a need she'd never felt before, she was ready to panic. Maybe she was quite ready yet, after all! But then he shifted a bit and ground his belly into hers.
As the enchanted jewelry touched, the seeking spell was broken and Draco's body relaxed. He finally opened his eyes. Apparently seeing her fright, he scrambled to her side and pulled her into his arms.
"I'm sorry, angel," he breathed. "I didn't meant scare you. It's just…"
Sitting up, he grinned at her. "Maybe I'd better put the bloody thing in my ear after all. Not as though I didn't already want you, but I can't concentrate on finding you if the damned spell makes me instantly hard for you, right? Damned thing nearly sent me over the edge!"
Ginny sat, too, her face crimson. "Is that what happened?" she said, relieved. "I thought—well never mind what I thought! I guess I wasn't as ready as I thought. I'm sorry, Draco! I know you brought me here for…you know, but I just can't yet."
He looked confused. "Sorry about what? We did what I brought you here for. Everything else was icing on the cake. Not," he said quickly at her look, "that I wouldn't gladly 'you know', but that wasn't why we came here."
"Really?" Ginny smiled and wrapped her arms around him, snuggling into his warmth. "I do plan to have my treasure hunt, you know. Just not quite now."
He chuckled, his breath stirring her hair. One large hand came up to smooth it back into place. "I just hope I survive until then, angel. A few more interludes like this are bound to kill me."