In the Great hall however, things were very quiet. No one had said a word or moved. Ron was still doing a gold fish act while Malfoy and Harry only looked at each other. Harry knew Hermione and Malfoy hadn't planned that, so really, it wasn't Malfoy's fault she kissed him. But still.

Malfoy was still, like many other students in the hall thinking about what Hermione had screamed and why.

Would I kiss Malfoy if I was going out with Harry…what did that mean? Malfoy pondered until he came to the only conclusion he could. Weasley must still like her and he must think Potter's hitting on her or something…well bugger it. I'll speak to her tonight. Malfoy nodded, agreeing with himself and had to turn to pansy who goggling.

'You let her kiss you. YOU ARE UP TO SOMETHING!' pansy shrieked, causing what little talk that had started to halt.

'Pansy- what?' Malfoy was very confused.

Pansy slapped him across the face and ran from the hall.

Over on the Gryffindor table, Harry and Ron watched pansy run. Harry turned and made eye contact with Ron. He still looked shocked that he had called Hermione a Mudblood.

'I-i-I didn't mean to…' he stuttered.

'I know. But you still said it. Ginny, try and find her.' Harry added, looking at Ginny who was scowling at Ron. She nodded and quickly left the hall.

Ron was still very sorry. ' I'm sorry Harry. I was just angry and jealous…'

'Well that part is obvious.' Harry said, though he knew he would forgive him soon.

'I believe you now…'

'It only took Hermione to kiss ferret to do it!' Harry spat. Maybe not for a few hours.

'I'm sorry.' Ron looked away, and he truly looked sorry.

Harry sighed. 'Ron, I know you still like her, but you cant let your jealously cloud what me and Hermione both told you. There wasn't and isn't anything between me and Hermione apart from a close friendship.'

'I know that now but I still like her Harry…I guess I liked her so much that whatever you two were doing, I would think you were flirting with her…'

'What for? Ron, in case you don't know, I have something for Ginny not, I repeat not Hermione.'

'Come now, everyone will be late to their lessons!' Dumbledore called, silencing the hall which was buzzing with questions, accusations and rumors.

Everyone got up and parted their own ways. Though for Ron, Harry and Malfoy, they where all lost in thoughts.

In Moaning Myrtle's bathroom, Hermione was still being hugged by Ginny, whose shoulder was wet with Hermione's tears. She didn't mind.

Myrtle was watching, wishing she had had friends like Ginny when she was alive. But I get them when I'm dead. How unfair is that! Myrtle though angrily.

'Come on Hermione, things could be a lot worse.' Ginny said.

'Ho-hic-how?' Hermione asked, still shaking from crying so much.

'Well, Malfoy could have kissed you back, couldn't he? Then things would be a lot worse.' Ginny suggested. Hermione remained quiet, not wanting to tell Ginny that Malfoy was starting to kiss back when she had pulled away.

'He didn't though did he? Did he Hermione?'

Hermione nodded.

'Oh my! Ok…erm…another example…' Ginny thought hard… 'You and Harry could be together which would make Ron right…'

Hermione laughed softly. 'True.'

'There now. Come on, lets get you to the common room.' Ginny said then tried to get Hermione to her feet/

'Which one?' she asked placing her hands on the sides of the crate.

'Gryffindor.' Ginny answered.

'No…not Gryffindor…take me to ours…'

'Ours being? Oh right! Yours and dracos…'

Hermione narrowed her eyes and let Ginny help her walk. After a minute, Hermione was right by herself and she made her way through the silent castle with Ginny close by.

They made it to the common room portrait. Hermione was walking fine though she was still crying silently. When Hermione walked into the common room, she sat on the chair and watched the fire burn the wood. It hurt her eyes as she was watching it so intently.

Then Ginny broke the silence by asking a question Hermione wasn't keen to answer. 'Do you have a thing for Malfoy?'

Hermione thought about it. Yes, she sort of liked him…but the way Ginny was talking about…she really didn't know.

'Yes Granger, do you have a thing for me?' both girls jumped and turned around as the portrait door closed. Hermione and Ginny both blushed though Hermione was blushing more as the question and attention was on her.

'Er…i…i…don't know.' Hermione stuttered then whispered the last part.

'Thought as much.' Ginny muttered. Hermione looked at her.

'What?' she asked almost forgetting Malfoy.

'I thought that is what you would say.' Ginny said then got up, walked over to Hermione and whispered in her ear, 'To hide the truth.'

Once Ginny had said it, a small part of Hermione believed her. Even though with her heart and sole she trusted Ginny, she wasn't sure about this one.

After coming back to her full height, Ginny walked past Malfoy, gave him a small smile and left.

'What in the name of Merlin was that about?' Malfoy asked walking further into the room and sitting on the couch.

Hermione knew he was there to ask about what had happened earlier that day, but she some how knew he would approach it smartly.

'I don't know.' Hermione said wiping her face with her hand. Malfoy watched her closely.

'I think you do. Just like you know about the blood and what happened this morning and what's happening to us.'

Ignoring what he said firstly and secondly, Hermione questioned his third out put. 'What do you mean, what's happening to us?'

'You know what I mean.' He said, tilting his head to the side. 'like, why we have kissed a few times, and have not killed each other…come on, granger, you gave me the answers last night.'

Hermione remembered. 'So? We aren't going out. You said the teachers are trying to put us together and I reminded you of some reasons why they might think it was possible.'

'Yeah well, maybe we should go out and see what they say?' maybe said, winking.

'Yeah right, you, go out with me. I highly doubt it.' Hermione snorted.

'Add on what you did this morning.' Malfoy said as though only just remembering.

'Ergh, don't remind me.' Hermione said. Then something hit her. 'You really want to go out with me?' she asked turning to face him as she had slowly turned away.

'Well, not really, but yeah, why not? It'll be a laugh.'

'That was not the answer I was expecting.' Hermione said, frowning, but continued on anyway. 'Ok, then, I want you to ask out…hmmm…' she thought… 'Jackie Coastal.'

'Who?' Malfoy asked, confusion on his face. He knew all the chicks in Hogwarts- well, the ones worth kissing and what ever, but, that excluded Hermione…or did it? Well, anyway, the point his thoughts wanted to make was that if he didn't know who she was, she was a nerd, ugly or very unpleasant or a muggle born.

'She's in Ginny's year, in Hufflepuff.'

Oh great. That's all I need. To be seen going out with a Hufflepuff. Malfoy thought.

'She goes to the library.'

Yep, nerd express!

'She is very nice but hasn't kissed any boys…'

Oh Merlin, im used to being right but please! Nerd, not worth knowing and ugly!

Hermione stopped, watching Malfoy's face carefully. She knew she had set an almost impossible task because Jackie hated the idea of having a boy friend and the apparent Sex god wouldn't want to be seen with someone like her- she was muggle born! Hermione didn't feel bad about including Jackie as she knew Jackie wouldn't be hurt- she wouldn't get interested so she wouldn't get involved. Though, Hermione had spoken with her many times in the library and she was nice and loved girls and guys company, but not a boyfriend. That is where she drew the line.

'Alright. And if I ask her out and she accepts, what then? You sleep with me?'

Hermione snorted. 'No Malfoy. Then we might go out. Now, I have to point her out to you don't i?'

Malfoy narrowed his eyes and weighed his chances. He had liked Hermione a long time and was curtain (up till ten minutes ago) that he would do anything to go out with her but now…well, he hoped this would be worth it. After all, he was the Slytherin sex god….every girl in the school would almost die to be in his company let alone his girlfriend.

'And,' Hermione interrupted his thoughts. 'You must stay with her for a week.'

'Now that's pushing it.' Malfoy said shaking his head.

'Well, I have to be believable for the teachers and everyone else don't it?' Hermione smiled innocently though she was still sad inside.

'Fine. But you cannot talk to her unless in my company and cannot talk about this dare in any way to anyone. Got it?' he said.

'Yes.' Hermione nodded. 'Now, I think people are still down in the hall, it's early. Come on, I'll show you your future girlfriend.'

'Im looking at her.' Malfoy mumbled though very quietly.

Hermione go to her feet and walked over to the portrait. Wiping her face again, she pattered down her robes and walked out. Malfoy followed, ruffling up his hair- it was something he had copied from potter.

'What are you doing?' Hermione called in the corridor as Malfoy was still in the common room. He had followed to the door but turned and looked at something.

'If I am to seduce, I can't do it looking like potter.' He called. Hermione scowled but let it slide thinking what was in store for Malfoy was beyond what he could imagine.

Hermione's biggest shock besides the fact Jackie was muggle born was that she was attractive.

Malfoy walked out after three more minutes and followed Hermione down into the great hall where many people turned to look. Many started whispering but they ignored it as Hermione scanned the Hufflepuff table for Jackie.

'There she is.' Hermione said pointing. Malfoy followed her finger to a girl with long brown hair that finished at her shoulders, bright blue eyes and a slim body. If she wore the right size robes instead of ones a size or two to big for her, Malfoy thought she would have nice curves.

Ok, so scratch the ugly part. He thought. This will be cake! He smirked.

Jackie was talking with a group of people, laughing. Many had now also returned to their conversation but shot Hermione and Malfoy glances.

Nodding to Hermione, she left the hall, him in tow.

'So, I will begin on that tomorrow.' He said smirking as they walked back to the common room.

'I'd rather you not call her that as she is my friend.' Hermione said, scowling again.

'Fine. That piece of ass.' Hermione slapped him on the back of the head and he smirked.

'Not that either! Jackie will do.' She said, though she was smiling.

Reaching the common room, Hermione walked up into her room and thought about the great hall. She hadn't seen Ron, but she spotted Harry but Ron wasn't there. Then she remembered seeing him a few seats down, talking with Dean. He and Harry seamed ok, but Ron wasn't sitting next to him- probably too guilty.

And so he should be. Hermione thought.

The next morning, Hermione checked her classes and saw she had a day that was filled with others that she shared with the Slytherins. Normally, this day was one Hermione hated, now, she was glad. She could keep an eye on him and see him when he makes his move.

She got dressed and tried to get into the bathroom to fix her hair, but when she tried to open the door, she sound it was locked.

'Malfoy?' Hermione called.

'What?' came a stifled reply.

'I need to use the bathroom!'

'I am!'

'I know, but unless you're on the toilet, naked or something of the sort, we can share.' Hermione called.

'Fine.' And Hermione heard the door unclick and she opened the door.

Inside, Malfoy was not naked, on the toilet or something of the sort. He was in fact standing in front of the mirror, combing his hair then ruffling it up.

'What's the point in that?' Hermione asked, coming up next to him.

'It looks very seductive when done properly.' Was his reply as he did it again. Pleased with it, he put the comb down and washed his hands before spraying on deodorant. 'And what about you? Are you going to spice yourself up?'

'No Malfoy, I have no cause to.' Hermione replied, then brushed her hair with her brush.

'Yes you do.' He said. 'You have to smell nice.'

'No one has ever complained that I smell so im not worried.' Hermione answered.

'Right. Coming to see me in action today?' he asked.

'Yes. Otherwise, I might think she's under a curse or you forced her.' Hermione said.

Malfoy faked a look of deep hurt. 'That hurts me granger.'

'I bet.' Hermione said rolling her eyes.

'So you'll be there?'

'Yes, I will be there. We have all of our classes together today Malfoy.' Hermione said. 'In fact, come to the library at lunch. Jackie goes there after she has had lunch and sat in the stone court yard for a while.'

'Nah, I'll do it in the court yard- I work for show.'

'Right.' Inside, Hermione was grinning. 'Fine, well, I'll see you in class Malfoy.' She said leaving the bathroom.

'Yep.'

Transfiguration went nicely. But Hermione wasn't talking to Ron. She had forgiven him in her head but wanted to hear him say sorry. She sat next to Harry who had Ron on his other side.

Malfoy was casting Hermione looks, but she pretended to ignore him.

'Are you ok?' Harry asked.

'Hmm? Yes, Im only thinking about things…I don't know how im going to deal the Hogsemade trip with Malfoy…'

Harry nodded knowingly.

For Charms, nothing happened out of the ordinary expect for Malfoy's glances and Ron's silence.

Finally, after Charms, it was lunch. This is what Hermione had really been thinking. It was what she had been thinking about all day. Briefly wondering why the great hall doors where closed, Hermione opened it and tried walking in. she stopped just before entering, thinking of something else.

Hermione was lost in thought so much she hadn't seen Aj who had come up to her to see if she was alright.

'Er Hermione?' Aj asked, after a minute. 'Hermione?' she waved her hand in front of Hermione's face.

'Hmm? What?' Hermione said, snapping her head up.

'I just said, are you ok?' Aj said, looking into her eyes.

'Yes, im alright.' Hermione answered smiling.

'Well, could you tell me why you are trying to go into the broom cupboard instead of the great hall?' Aj said, barely concealing her grin.

'Erm…no, I can't answer…' Hermione said embarrassed. That explains the closed door. Hermione thought now feeling utterly stupid.

'Come on, I promise, if you come with me, you wont get lost.' Aj said, smiling as she walked with Hermione who had lost Harry and Ron somewhere along the way.

In the hall, Hermione said goodbye and walked over to Harry and Ron who where watching her.

She sat and ate, not saying much, but kept herself out of thoughts to watch Jackie.

When Hermione saw Jackie stand up, she too go to her feet and followed. Jackie was with friends, and they headed, like Hermione told Malfoy, out into the stone court yard.

'Hey! Hey Jackie!' Hermione called. Jackie turned around, saw Hermione and smiled.

'Hey!' she waved and Hermione came closer.

'could…could I sit with you? I want to be outside but not alone…Harry wont come.' Hermione said.

'Yeah sure!' Jackie said, nodding. 'I saw what happened yesterday.' She looked down sad, looking back up though. 'Are you ok?'

'Yeah. I'll be fine.' Hermione smiled bracingly.

'Yeah, I know. But, sure, come on.' Jackie said, and Hermione joined the group as they walked out into the court yard. They sat on the ground and on seats.

As they talked, Hermione only listened, watching the doors, trying to see Malfoy. But some of their conversation got Hermione's attention and she realized these people were very cool. They talked about everything everyone else did.

Then, just when Hermione was thinking Malfoy had chickened out, she saw his blond hair in the entrance hall. He was, unexpectedly in the company of his Slytherins. This was something Hermione hadn't counted on, but she bet Malfoy hadn't counted on Hermione being right in front of him when he asked Jackie.

Then, thinking that was harsh, Hermione leaned over and whispered in Jackie's ear.

'Sorry, but I have to go and talk to Ron…I cant stand this.' Hermione said.

Jackie nodded and smiled. 'Good luck!' Hermione smiled in thanks and walked off. Before Malfoy saw her, or anyone else, Hermione had ducked behind a bush near the group and could hear their conversation perfectly.

Making sure she was hidden from everyone, Hermione listened to the thumping footsteps of the Slytherins who stopped near the Hufflepuffs.

Hermione parted some leaves and had a little peep hole. She saw Malfoy detach himself from the Slytherins and walk over to Jackie and her friends who watched him carefully.

'Hello Jackie. I was watching you before, and I thought, hey, Hufflepuffs aren't bad. Its just Slytherin talk! So, I got over all that bull, and I think you're not that bad. So, how about going out with the Slytherin Sex-god?'

Hermione had thought he was going well, but he spoiled it with his Slytherin sex god part.

Then Malfoy lent over and whispered into Jackie's ear. Hermione couldn't hear the words, but watched her face and saw it change from skeptical to amusement. Malfoy was grinning as he spoke and Jackie laughed. She laughed. Hermione's plan was going down the drain.

Then, after 2 more minutes, Malfoy stood up and smirked. He took Jackie's hand and kissed it before walking back to the Slytherins who had been watching him.

Jackie smiled to her friends and continued their conversation. Her friends must be used to that but not Malfoy. But seeing that Jackie wasn't going to pass it off, they let it slip.

The Slytherins returned to the castle and were out of sight. Hermione waited before getting back into view and running to the castle, careful to make sure Jackie and her friends didn't see her.

For the remainder of the day, Hermione had to see Malfoy smirking broadly in her direction and she had a sudden sense of foreboding. What if he did go out with her for a week? Hermione thought. But, relaxing, she decided to listen to Professor Cherly, whom she would have to listen to for a double divination period.

Harry got up and walked down to the Professor to collect some things they needed while Hermione and Ron were left at their table in silence. Then Ron broke it.

'Hermione, what I said…it was in the heat of the moment…I didn't mean-'

'It's ok Ron. I know. I didn't think you would call me that on purpose. But you have to learn to control your jealous monster. Because when he gets out, hes ugly.' Hermione said, smiling.

'Yes I know. But I'm sorry.' Ron said, turning red behind his ears.

'Ron, calm down. I forgive you. All is not over.' Hermione said, then reached over and hugged him.

From across the room, Malfoy sat, watching Hermione and Ron hug then laugh and talk. He was alone with Crabbe and Pansy while someone went with Goyle to get what they needed. The familiar stab of jealously was felt when he saw her. This was becoming normal now with this girl. No other girl made him think about them all the time. And no other girl could get him to ask out a Hufflepuff- no matter how attractive they were.

'Draco? Want me to rub your feet tonight?' Pansy asked, though there was a touch of iciness in her voice.

'No pansy, that's ok, thanks.' Malfoy said, mentally shaking at the thought.

'Why? Will you be with Mudblood?' pansy said, thought she spat on Crabbe's shoulder who was sitting between them.

'No, I just don't want a foot rub.' Malfoy answered.

'Or off with a whore in a broom cupboard?' pansy said, quoting Hermione.

'What?' Malfoy asked, leaning past Crabbe's body to see her. 'Where pansy would you get that idea?'

'Draco, you and I both know its not an idea. What it is is a face.' Pansy looked hurt as she said this, but continued. 'Anyway, who better to know what you're up too and who with than your roommate?'

'Who? Granger?' Malfoy laughed. 'You've been talking with Granger and you believe her?'

'Well…at the time, I had no reason not to. But yes.' Pansy answered, sniffing.

'Well pansy, don't. ha, talking and believing granger is laughable. Someone of your breeding shouldn't lower yourself to that level.'

'But you do.' Pansy said quietly.

'I can rise back up without trouble. But you pansy, you need help. Someone to support you.'

'Yes, Draco I do. And I choose you.' Pansy said, her mood changing instantly. 'Come on Draco, you know what I mean.'

'No pansy. You don't want me. Im…not your type.' Malfoy answered trying to sound like he knew what he was saying- truth was he was shocked she had brought that up here and now.

It was then that Goyle and the other Slytherins returned so their conversation stopped, Malfoy returned to watching Hermione laugh without him and pansy in thought about another approach.

Hermione hadn't watched or looked at Malfoy, utterly sick of his smirking every time she looked his way. But then, she had an impulse and looked.

He was talking to pansy, and laughing.

Well. Hermione said, then, hurt almost, she turned back and laughed with Ron as Harry came back and joined in.

'So you're happy now are you?' Harry asked, smiling.

'Yes.' Hermione answered, giving him a smile.

'Wait!' the class silenced and looked at Professor Cherly who was looking around. 'There is too many emotions in this room. Jealously,' here he looked over at Malfoy, 'angry, happiness, confusion…sadness…way to many to work with! So, I want everyone to breath in quietly and exhale. Silently now.' He added as he heard people inhale and exhale loudly.

'Calm yourself. Forget the day, time, date, and the people around you. Nothing in your mind but my voice.' Everyone had closed their eyes to help them concentrate. But two people hadn't. Hermione and Malfoy.

Hermione looked around the room and locked eyes with Malfoy. Neither showed emotion, not smiles, smirks nothing. Then, Professor Cherly brought the class out of their small trance. Indeed, the room feet more roomier, more air to breath now. Hermione certainly hadn't gotten rid of any emotion but she knew she wasn't the only one.

'Right now, that's better isn't it?' Professor Cherly smiled from the front. He continued with the lesson, and Hermione looked away from Malfoy to concentrate.

The class ended and everyone packed up.

'I feel like I'm floating on a cloud.' Someone muttered walking from the room.

Hermione rolled her eyes. She didn't feel like she was on a cloud. She felt like she was drowning in her emotions. Literally.

She walked from the tower with Harry and Ron and down to dinner. The corridors when they reached them were flooded with people al streaming in the same direction. Hermione and her friends jumped in and followed, only coming to the edges when it thinned out. Malfoy was bragging loudly about something behind them, but Hermione pretended she didn't care- she shouldn't and couldn't give anyone any clues she had something with Malfoy- a bet! A bet! Nothing more…

Though, if it fails, I have to date him…Hermione thought. Then it might be something more…oh stop thinking like that!

Hermione slapped her head and got funny looks from Harry and Ron. 'Ow.' She muttered.

Harry and Ron laughed. Hermione rubbed her head as they walked into the great hall together, looking around at some other students.

Three second years walked up to Hermione slowly and carefully. They looked on either side of them before coming all the way. Hermione watched them and muttered to Harry and Ron to get a seat.

'Erm…you're Hermione Granger aren't you? You're the Head Girl?' one with blond hair and brown eyes asked.

'Yes.' Hermione said nodding.

'Well, erm…the thing to Hogsemade is tomorrow…where are we supposed to meet?' she continued, tangling her hands together nervously.

'Oh!' another slap but mental this time. 'Erm…in the stone court yard- yes, spread the word…yes, in the stone court yard at…oh erm…after breakfast I think…yes.' Hermione had just thought all of that up.

'Oh ok. We'll tell everyone.' She said, looking happy.

'Hang on, why didn't you go to Malfoy?' Hermione asked

'Oh erm…' the girl looked nervous again. 'We thought you would know…and he's well…he wouldn't talk to us…we're Gryffindors…' it was then Hermione noticed the Gryffindor symbol on their robes.

'But aren't there Slytherins in your class?' Hermione asked.

'Yes. But you're a Gryffindor. He would talk to Slytherins.' She mumbled then walked off with her friends.

'Right…' Hermione said, shaking her head and looking around for Harry or Ron.

Then she saw Jackie. Sitting near Jackie was Malfoy. Though, causing Hermione to smile was that Malfoy wasn't at her table- good. She hasn't fallen for him yet

Malfoy looked over and saw Hermione looking at him smiling. He was confused but decided to react. He smirked and winked. At this, Hermione looked away and started for Harry who she had seen a moment ago.

Malfoy turned his thoughts instead to Jackie. He hadn't whispered anything that would be a threat. He just told her to please smile because if he went out with her, she would be very popular and she would guys hanging off her. She smiled for him but muttered through clenched teeth "I won't. I don't want a boyfriend."

"Please! Please muttered, still smiling. He knew Hermione was around somewhere. "If you don't, I will be denied someone I like. A lot. Please."

"Hmmm. Leave us Hufflepuffs alone for good and I might consider it."

"Come to the Charms room after dinner and we'll discuss what you want." He muttered before standing up.

The memory went through his head. He knew he hadn't been as seductive as he would have been normally, but he wasn't interested in this girl. Well, he was a bit, but he was more into Hermione than her.

Finished with dinner, he got to his feet, and walked from the hall and headed up the cold and silent corridors to the Charms classroom. He walked inside and waited. While waiting, he twiddled his thumbs and thought again.

Hermione watched as Malfoy left the hall. Three minutes later, Jackie left too without her friends and went up the stairs.

She wondered what he was up to but left it be…she told him to have her go out with him so maybe he had a romantic picnic on some tower…though she didn't think Malfoy was that kind of guy.

Jackie walked through the corridors to the Charms class wondering why she was doing what he had asked. This is a chance to get Hufflepuff left alone. They could handle any other Slytherin, but Malfoy was the worse. Briefly remembering a rumor she had heard about Malfoy liking Hermione, Jackie opened the classroom door and saw Malfoy sitting at the teachers table looking utterly board and slightly amusing.

'Erm…Malfoy?' Jackie said shutting the door behind her.

Malfoy turned his gaze to her from the table in front of him and smirked. 'Ahh. Coastal. I wondered weather you would turn up.'

'Well Malfoy, I guess people surprise you.' Jackie said then walked to the table in front of him and sat down.

'No, Coastal, very few people surprise me.' Malfoy answered looking towards the door. He pointed his wand and it and Jackie heard a faint click.

'So. What is it that you want to pretend you love me for a week?' Malfoy asked seeing no reason to not get straight to the point.

'I want you to stay away from Hufflepuffs and I never thought it would be for a week.' Jackie said crossing her arms.

'Well…I suppose there's still Ravenclaw and Gryffindor…yeah alright. No more picking on the Hufflepuffs. But that doesn't mean that if I see one getting picked on or had fallen over, im not helping them.'

'Fair.' Jackie agreed.

'And yes, it is for a week- 7 days.'

'I know how long a week is.' Jackie said sarcastically.

'Well that's news.' Malfoy said nastily. 'anyway, so, as I was saying, its for a week and you will have to put on a 100 effort. No jokes, no playing around. Kissing, mucking around that sort of thing. She has to believe you love me.'

'And who's "she"?' Jackie asked raising an eye brow.

'I don't think you need to know.' Malfoy said smirking.

'Well, if im supposed to put on a convincing performance, if she asks me, how can I make it convincing enough?' Jackie said slyly.

'Alright then. If you swear, under oath to not tell another living thing in any way shape or form.'

'Yes, I do. And if I break it, you can tease Hufflepuff worse than ever.' Jackie promised.

Wow. She means business. Malfoy thought then smirked. 'Deal.'

'So?'

'Its Granger.'

'…'

'What?' Malfoy asked catching a look on jackie's face.

'So the rumors were true.' She mumbled. 'You like her. Does she like you?'

'Well I think so, I mean, who doesn't?' Jackie rolled her eyes, and Malfoy smirked again. 'But she said, to prove it, I have to ask you out and make you love me for a week.'

'Uh huh. Does she know we're meeting like this? That I know everything?'

'Well…no she doesn't.' Malfoy said, for once to a girl (apart from Hermione) the truth.

'well, I dunno…she's my friend…'

'And its your house at stake.' Malfoy reminded her.

'True. Fine. I agree. But no, and I repeat no snogging. I just want to see Hermione over Ronald…though he wasn't bad. He just wasn't for her. Shame, really, I mean, Hermione liked him but still cant fight with the way it was meant to be…'

'Okay okay!' Malfoy said angrily- he didn't want to hear this!

'Still, if your not right for her, or hurt her in any way, I will crush you. You and your reputation.'

Empty threat. Malfoy thought. My Rep's gone anyway because I will be going out with granger…still, I will keep it. Im a Malfoy.

'Right. Well, if that's all, I want to get back to my friends.' Jackie said getting to her feet.

'Yes. As long as you know I might do something tomorrow. Don't be surprised, act along.'

'Sure.' Jackie said and smiled. Then she turned around and left.

Malfoy left soon after for the common room and caught up on some homework.

Hermione strolled in later, and stood in front of Malfoy, hands on hips.

'Have you answered any questions about the trip tomorrow?' she asked.

'No. told them to bugger off to you.' Malfoy answered simply.

'Malfoy!' Hermione groaned. 'You're head boy! They came to you because you're taking them!'

'Yeah, but your organizing it.' He replied.

'Well.' Hermione said sighing, 'I've told them to meet us in the court yard of stone after breakfast. Then we'll walk down to the village.'

'Fine. But I have some snogging to do first.' Malfoy replied winking.

Hermione rolled her eyes. 'Fine whatever. Just don't have your hair messy or lipstick or whatever your whores wear left on your face when you come out.'

'They aren't whores!' Malfoy said though he was smiling. 'They are there for fun.'

'You really have no emotion for a girl's feelings do you?' Hermione asked, looking at him with disgust.

'Hmm, well, I was under the impression that whores had no feelings.'

'Malfoy they are women and living, breathing people. Of course they have feelings. Though just because its not as small as yours-'

'I have deep feelings.' Malfoy said coldly. 'And I'm a living breathing person.'

'True. But your supposed to be my enemy.' Hermione said smiling.

'Not after next week.' Malfoy winked.

'Ha. She has to still like you first.' Hermione muttered though she knew Malfoy had somehow talked to her. Made her like him.

'And you know you'll lose.' Malfoy added.

'Yes, that seams probable.' Hermione agreed though reluctantly. 'And how long are we to go out for? Two weeks?' she asked, faking hope.

'No. as long as it lasts.' Malfoy answered.

'Sure. And it will last forever.' Hermione rolled her eyes and went to bed.

'Yes. Granger. Forever.' Malfoy said smirking.

The next morning, Hermione woke up early, as usual and headed down to breakfast. The weather had started to get warmer over the last few days so Hermione put on a pair of jeans and a t-shirt with a light jacket on top.

In the great hall, the second years coming along to Hogsemade were there, sitting at the Gryffindor or Slytherin table. When Hermione came in and sat down, she started eating and watching the people come casually in and out. Then, as it was school day, more people came in and ate quickly, having slept in. Harry and Ron came in as Malfoy did. They didn't talk, or even look at each other as they separated to their tables.

'Morning.' Harry said smiling.

'Morning.' Hermione replied smiling back.

Hermione was watching Malfoy through breakfast as he made his way over to Jackie who was also watching him.

He sat at her table and began again whispering her ear then he kissed her. The buzzing around them stopped at once. Draco Malfoy had just kissed Jackie Coastal who was muggle born (though he didn't know that.) this was something to whisper about!

Hermione then noticed that the second years were looking at her, as much of Gryffindor table. They all thought like Lavender had done when Malfoy was under the love potion with pansy. They thought they had it made blah blah blah.

Hermione, not wanting this much attention, nodded to the second years and walked out of the hall muttering goodbye to Harry and Ron who where gaping.

The Gryffindor second years followed Hermione out into the court yard and they waited their in silence.

Personally, Hermione had expected something like this so it wasn't that bad. But the wait for Malfoy and his Slytherin second years was not pleasant.

Then, after ten minutes of total silence, Malfoy came out, smirking as he lead the rest of the class out into the sunshine.

'Right.' Hermione started when they had stopped with the others. 'Boundaries. We will point them out when we get down there. Now, if you disobey us, well…you wont want to.'

'Why?' a sly Slytherin asked smirking much like Malfoy.

'Because. It will not be pretty for you.' Hermione answered as kindly as she could.

'Make that bush over there turn on fire, then out without a mark but then have it shrink and grow back in flames.' He said smartly.

'And if I do that, will you believe me?' Hermione asked

'Yes.' He vowed.

'Fine.' Hermione whipped out her wand and asked the Gryffindors to stand aside. She concentrated on the bush and then suddenly, hot flames appeared on the bush. The flames were so hot that they probably would have incinerated the bush if Hermione wasn't concentrating. Then the flames were gone just as suddenly as they came. Not a mark was on the bush. Smiling happily, Hermione did the next bit of the little slime's deal. Just as it started shrinking, some movement behind Hermione court her eye. Quickly, Hermione used a non-verbal spell on the Slytherin who had tried to jinx her. As he fell, Hermione turned back to the bush and saw it was still shrinking. Concentrating as hard as she could, Hermione waved her wand and the bush started growing again as well as encased in flames.

Smiling very happy and grinning at the Gryffindors who where clapping, Hermione turned to Malfoy and his Slytherins who were all staring at her open mouthed. Then, her eyes still on Malfoy's Slytherins, Hermione waved her wand and the flames went out.

'So, do you believe me now?' Hermione asked smiling.

'What did you do to Travers?' someone asked

'I only stunned him.' Hermione said easily, then waved her wand again and Travers stirred.

'Right. Now, muck around with me, and as I said, it will not be pretty.'

Turning on her heel she started walking down the grounds with Gryffindor following. The Slytherins stayed put until Malfoy caught his voice. 'Come on, lets go.'

The Gryffindors waited in the main street of Hogsemade for the Slytherins. Hermione hummed as she waited pleased with herself. She knew she would be able to do most of it if she concentrated enough but she also knew the Slytherin might know this and try to distract her. And as usual she was right.

Then in the distance Hermione could see the slithering walking down to them slowly and muttering. Malfoy wasn't talk as far as Hermione could see but she didn't care.

They waited for them to catch up. When they did, Hermione again took control of the class. 'So, now, you can wonder up and down the main street, which is this one, but no ally ways. You must be with someone at all times. Im warning you, I will know if you have been in the all ways or off the main street. So, I have warned you about the ally ways and sticking together…erm…anything you would like to add?' Hermione asked Malfoy.

'Er no, I think you covered it all pretty well.' He smirked.

'Right then, so off you go and remember, you aren't here for shopping, you're here for an essay.'

The Gryffindors and Slytherins split into groups and started walking up and down the streets. Hermione stayed were she was and so did Malfoy.

'So, see what Jackie and I did at breakfast?' Malfoy asked winking.

'Yes I did, and so did the rest of the school.' Hermione remarked.

'Are you jealous?' Malfoy asked watching her.

Hermione snorted. 'Malfoy, please, if this "bet" fails, I have to date you remember? So I think during that time there is a good chance I will be getting enough kisses. Unless…you don't want it to be believable.' Hermione added when Malfoy smirked smugly.

'Of course it has to be believable.' Malfoy said. 'Other wise what's the point in doing it?'

'Well, we would be acting wouldn't we? I mean, this isn't real for either of us is it?' Hermione asked partly asking herself.

'Erm…it could be…' Malfoy smirked. 'You know the answer to that one granger, you were there in Divination.'

'Yes I was and I haven't forgotten.' Hermione said smiling as she turned away.

The students they were supposed to be watching were still in view and Hermione knew if one had gone off the main street but they hadn't.

'So will it be acting for you?' Malfoy asked.

'I really don't know.' Hermione answered truthfully.

'I think it won't be. I mean look at you. Im standing right behind you and you're not attempting to walk or get away.'

Then before Hermione knew it, Malfoy's hands were wrapped around her body.

'I don't know Malfoy. Don't you have a bet to keep up?' Hermione asked turning with difficulty to face him.

'Well yes but hey, cant I fool around? Im a Slytherin you know.' Said smiling mysteriously.

'Do that, I will think you will do the same thing to me.' Hermione said innocently.

'there's a difference between you and Jackie.' Malfoy answered.

'And what's that?' Hermione asked.

'I want you, not her. And when I get the things that I want, which I always do, I don't muck around. I get you, which I think I already have, and I wont let go, which means I wont cheat.'

'That's really sweat. Which book is it from?' Hermione said grinning.

'Its from mine.' Malfoy said.

'Right then…' Hermione said then reached for Malfoy's hands behind her back. She pulled them off and walked up the street looking around smiling at the Gryffindors. Malfoy caught up and smirked at Gryffindors and Slytherins.

Suddenly, Hermione called 'Travers! Get out of the ally way!' no one knew how Hermione knew he was there but further up the street, Travers came out looking angry he got caught.

'How did you know he was there?' Malfoy whispered.

'I don't know.' Hermione said winking. 'Deal with him- he's in your house.'

'Fine. Travers! Get over here!' he barked.

Travers came waddling up to them and only looked at Malfoy, sure he would get him out of trouble.

'Ten points from Slytherin and detention tomorrow night.' Malfoy said with authority.

'But…but!' Travers protested.

'No buts or it will be 20 points and Thursday night too!' Travers ran off to his friends angrily.

'Wow. He shows his house he will be mean to them too.' Hermione said.

'Yes "he" does. I always have made sure they know im in charge…just not when you're around.'

Hermione laughed. 'I find that very hard to believe.'

'Fine then. Make some polyjuice potion and come into the Slytherin common room. See what we Slytherins get up to in our little hole.'

'No thank you Malfoy. I think my common room is warm enough.' Hermione said.

'I never said anything about it being warm.' Malfoy muttered. 'Though there are ways to get warm…like-'

'Don't want to know!' Hermione said loudly causing Malfoy to smirk.

'Wrapping up in a blanket.' He continued innocently. 'Or cuddling up to the fire or snogg-'

'Alright!' Hermione said again loudly though she was smiling.

The day wore on with groups of the two houses walking past, stopping to look at something or see someone they knew. Hermione and Malfoy walked up and down the street helping (only Hermione mind you) the students who wanted to know something. Malfoy just told them to go and ask Hermione.

When 5 o'clock rolled around, Hermione called for them to re-group where they started off. When everyone was there, Hermione and Malfoy led the way back up to the darkening castle.

They were silent in their walk listening to the students behind them mutter about the village they had visited so many times.

Once in the great hall, they separated, Hermione heading over to Professor Dumbledore who was waiting patiently, humming to himself.

'Good trip I trust?' Dumbledore asked looking at Hermione and smiling.

'Yes, I think we did as much as we could given the time.' Hermione answered smiling back.

'And how was Mr. Malfoy?' Dumbledore asked looking past her at Malfoy who was watching them.

Turning around to look at Malfoy, Hermione faced Dumbledore and smiled. 'He was good. Nothing went wrong.'

'Except the little part in were you had to prove you were in charge?' Dumbledore smiled.

'Well erm yes that was little draw back but nothing else went wrong or unplanned.' Hermione said looking a little embarrassed.

'You must be hungry. Come in, dinner has only just started.' Dumbledore said, indicating for all the students to follow him into the hall.

Hermione followed and smiled. It warmer in here then outside. Though it had been a sunny day, the nights are still fairly cold. Harry and Ron waved to Hermione to get her attention as she scanned the hall.

She waved back happily and walked over to them smiling.

'How was your day?' Harry asked watching for her reaction.

'It was better than I could have expected.' Hermione said honestly.

'That's good to hear.' Harry said nodding and smiling.

'And what did you two do today?' Hermione asked pouring herself some pumpkin juice from a golden jug.

'Attended classes and in the afternoon we had a free period of Divination for some reason so we spent it playing Quidditch.' Ron answered.

'You should have spent it doing that Snape essay.' Hermione said frowning.

'Yes well we didn't.' Ron said smiling.

Hermione rolled her eyes as she looked around for Ginny. She hadn't seen her since the common room and Malfoy had walked in…

She spotted Ginny sitting with her friends. Hermione got to her feet and muttered to Harry where she was going. Walking further up the table Hermione stopped before Ginny and her friends smiling.

'Ginny, what to come for a walk with me?' Hermione asked.

'oh, hey Hermione! Yeah sure. Cya later guys.' Ginny said to her friends and smiling at Hermione they walked out of the hall together headed again for Hermione's common room.

Walking along the corridors that only had a few people walking up or down in them, Hermione walked along the windows, looking out them at the moon lit grounds while Ginny walked beside her wondering what Hermione was going to talk about. Maybe she could find out what happened after Hermione left the hall. Ginny had noticed a group of second years leave after her, but had no idea why.

'Erm Hermione, where are we going?' Ginny asked after a few minutes of more silence.

'To my common room.' Hermione answered smiling.

'Right. And what will we do if Malfoy bursts in again?' Ginny asked grinning.

'We wont actually be in the common room. We'll be on the balcony.' Hermione answered turning a corner and up more stairs.

'Yes alright, but isn't that connected to his room too?' Ginny asked.

'It is,' Hermione agreed 'but he won't look there- it's a castle, I could be anywhere if he's looking for me.'

'Oh right.' Ginny said smiling.

They walked along another torch lit corridor which had Hermione's portrait. Approaching the wolf, Hermione smiled.

'Dark shadow.' She said.

'Ahh, miss, I didn't get a chance to see if you were alright from the other night.' The wolf growled before opening up.

'I'm fine thankyou.' Hermione smiled and walked in Ginny in tow.

Walking through the common room and up into Hermione's room, Ginny excused herself, and walked into the bathroom.

Hermione waited for her in her room, sitting on her bed and looking around. Ginny came out and they walked onto the dark balcony.

Sitting on some soft chairs, they began talking/

'So. What happened when I left?' Ginny asked winking and grinning.

'Nothing.' Hermione answered looking over the grounds.

'Uh huh. Then tell me the truth about today. What happened? I'm friends with Amanda who was there today and she saw Malfoy and you hugging.'

'It was…just a mistake.'

'Then tell me everything about your "mistake".' Ginny insisted.

'Well, if you insist.' Hermione sighed and told Ginny everything from Jackie and the bet and what she and Malfoy had talked about. Then she went on to this morning, explaining about the second years and where they went.

When Hermione stopped, Ginny looked away, her mind processing all new information. When she was sure she understood everything, she looked back at Hermione who was watching her hands in her lap.

'wow.'

'Yes.' Hermione replied.

In their silence, they heard something, that sounded like a door shutting, somewhere inside. Then they heard footsteps and sounds in Malfoy's room.

"come on" Hermione mouthed to Ginny, unfolding herself carefully and silently off the chair and tip toed to her room. Ginny followed and they closed the door just as they heard Malfoy's opening. Hermione quickly closed the curtains and the room was encased in darkness. Hermione waved her wand and her lights flickered on and she and Ginny sat on her bed talking about Hermione and Malfoy's bet.

Malfoy walked onto the balcony, intending to find Hermione and talk about what they had said in Hogsemade.

His heart sank when he saw it was empty. The lights weren't on in her room so he turned around and went back into his room. He had banged and knocked on her door for 5 minutes, but no one answered. Then he tried the bathroom and it was empty. Leaving his room, he left the common room and talked to the wolf outside.

'Are you sure you saw her come in?' Malfoy asked.

'Yes. Miss went in.'

'Did she come out?'

'No, she stayed in there, as did the little Miss who was with her.' The wolf replied stubbornly- he had answered question after question from Malfoy, each asking basically the same thing.

'Someone was with her?' Malfoy asked. 'what did she look like?'

'Hmmm…' growled the wolf. 'Red hair…'

'Thankyou.' Malfoy said. He turned and walked away from the portrait down the corridor, ignoring the wolf growling "I told you, she hasn't left from inside!"

He tried the library and was shooed out by Madam Pince, tried the hall again…no go.

Now tired from all the walking he did, Malfoy returned to the common room, again ignoring the wolf which said smartly "find her?"

Tired from everything, Malfoy walked up stairs into his room and fell on his bed and fell asleep, fully clothed.

Hermione and Ginny enjoyed imagining what the school would think if Hermione and Malfoy went out, or what Malfoy might do with Jackie to make her like him for 6 more days.

At about 10, Ginny got tired and said goodnight. Hermione said goodnight back and headed into the bathroom to have a bath. She ran the water and put some bubbles in. going back to her room, Hermione grabbed something and retuned to the bathroom. She dropped the thing she got into the bath.

Peering into Malfoy's room, Hermione saw him asleep and debated weather or not she should lock the door.

He's asleep…but still…no, he's asleep Hermione argued. Then she decided she wouldn't lock the door as he was sleep, merely close it.

So she closed it and jumped into the filling up bath.

The sound of running water and splashing woke Malfoy up from a pleasant dream. He sat up and started chocking as his robes tightened around his throat. Coughing, he reached up and undid the tightest button before rubbing his throat.

Then the around of slashing and water running came back and he got to his feet and walked over to the bathroom door. Pressing his ear against it, he heard it was coming from within there. He listened for any other noise, and thought Hermione must have left a tap running. He opened the door and walked inside.

(Great place to leave it don't you think? But I have something I want to do before I end this very long chapter- them to talk!)

Looking first at the taps, he saw none was on nor running, then he immediately turned his eyes to the bath. It was almost full, bubbles covering the surface. Then he saw Hermione's bushy hair appear on the surface.

Hermione opened her eyes and saw Malfoy. Squeaking, she ducked under the warm water and searched around for the thing she put in here before…there! Her swimmers! The air getting thinner and thinner in her lungs, Hermione quickly put them on and resurfaced.

'Wow. Are you trying to drown yourself?' Malfoy asked smirking.

'No.' Hermione answered swimming to the side of the bath. 'I…I thought you were asleep.'

'I was, but I woke up and heard water running so I thought you had left a tap on so I came in to turn it off.'

'Right.' Hermione said nodding her head.

Seeing Malfoy look at her and wink, Hermione added to her sentence 'I have swimmers on.'

'Damn.' Malfoy said, clicking his fingers in disappointment.

'Come on Malfoy. I know you don't care.' Hermione said rolling her eyes and jumping up on to the side of the bath.

'Well no, not now.' He smirked then walked over to her.

Rising her eye brow, Hermione watched him. 'You want something?'

'You know what I want. But I want something more at the moment. I want to talk.' He added, after seeing the look on Hermione's face.

'Then talk.' Hermione said, slipping back into the bath.

'You going to listen?' he asked sitting on a dry patch of tiles.

'Yes.' Hermione replied sitting on a step on the bath. The water was too warm to leave.

'Right well, I wanted to talk to you about this bet with Coastal.'

'Are you getting cold feet? Or are you chickening out?' Hermione asked smiling.

'No, im not getting cold feet nor am I chickening out- I am a Malfoy. I was going to say, we should stop it because its obvious your jealous.'

Hermione laughed. 'Malfoy, I've seen you snogg and kiss and whatever other girls- im used to it.'

'Yes but you didn't have feelings for me then did you?'

'Well…maybe not as strong but still.'

'Yeah same. I felt so angry when I saw you with Weasel.'

'His name is Ron.' Hermione said angrily.

'Of course it is.' Malfoy said smirking as she splashed him. 'Hey! Hey careful!'

Hermione stuck out her tongue in reply.

Half and hour later, Hermione got out, trying to stay out of sight as possible by Malfoy who was rising his eye brows and winking.

She wrapped herself up in a towel and came to sit next to him.

'Remember that kissing competition?' Malfoy asked.

'Yes, what about it?' Hermione asked.

'Remember Slax?'

'Yes. Again, what about it?'

'Who did you really like better?' he asked smiling.

'I think my spell explained who I liked better.' Hermione answered smiling.

'Yes, I think so, but I want to know if you tampered with the spell to make it do what you wanted it to.'

'I can tell you now, I didn't.' Hermione answered. 'Well, school tomorrow. See you in the morning.'

Getting up, she walked over to the door, careful not to slip.

'Wait, where's my goodnight kiss?' Malfoy asked, also on his feet.

'In the mail.' Hermione joked before disappearing into her room and getting into her warm bed, patting Crookshanks who curled up beside her.

Right. Long? LOL…thankyou for reviewing everyone, 400 reviews ! Wow! Now, please say so if you want a story about Hermione and Malfoy after school…I will write if you review!

aj