Undivided

Epilogue: Explaining to Do

Author's jibberish: This is the last of it. No more. Yes, no more chaptered Draco/Ginny only because I haven't been inspired with a plot. From now on, it's probably one-shots. It's been a great ride, and I'd like to thank all the readers: the new ones and the veterans from "As Thou…". Thanks for all the words of encouragement, and may you continue in your fanfiction endeavors, whatever they may be. Let Fire & Ice reign…

"Malfoy?"

Draco turned around and saw Jeremy Doyle standing at his office doorway. "Yes, Mr. Doyle?"

"Graduation is done and over… Malfoy."

"I'm well aware of that."

"Why?" Jeremy asked. "Why'd you do it?"

"I beg your pardon?" Draco opened a box that sat on top of his desk.

"He's still alive," Jeremy warned. "Our Dark Lord is still alive. You made yourself an enemy the moment you spoke kind words to her."

Draco smirked. "Is that all you have to say, Doyle?"

"You were my colleague, Malfoy."

"Yes, and we were so chummy that you insisted on running your mouth to the Dark Lord." Draco put the various knick-knacks from his desk into his box. "I know it was you who told him."

Jeremy paled but let out a laugh. "You jump to conclusions. I wasn't the only Deatheater in class--."

"But you were the only one of them present that day I was given my assignment," Draco closed the box.

"Is a Weasley really worth giving up everything? You're lucky our fathers and master escaped that fight. But that won't stop them from you being their next target," Jeremy said to him.

Draco sealed the box.

"I don't understand you, Malfoy. She's beneath us."

"I suggest you leave, Doyle. Before I take care of you myself."

"But--," Jeremy protested. "This is a school—You're a teacher."

"That won't stop me from you being a target," Draco smirked like a fox. "After all, school for you is over. I am not your teacher anymore."

Jeremy swallowed and quickly left the room.

Draco turned around and looked through the window and saw all the families crowded on the Hogwarts lawn. The graduation ceremony ended about 15 minutes ago. Students and families alike congratulated the 7th years as they went on to the "Higher Level" of life. Many were set. Some were going to Auror training, like Ron Weasley and Harry Potter before them. Some were going in the opposite direction to be full-time Deatheaters. Many were headed to the Ministry of Magic offices. About six students, including Virginia Weasley, were going to start an internship at the Daily Prophet. She was offered a job, starting as an assistant journalist to Terry Lane, a writer of the International News Division.

Speaking of which, there was a cluster of redheads, blazing from the grass. Her parents, her six brothers, Potter and his future bride… Some one approached Ginny and pulled her aside. Draco watched in anticipation, wondering what that Colin Creevey wanted to talk to her about. He said something and Ginny shook her head. She was explaining something and Colin just nodded, head hung low. Ginny hugged him and headed to the castle entrance.

Draco had a feeling Colin asked her out or something of the sort… and she rejected him. Humor and triumph swelled in Draco's chest. A whole school year was over. He had a knack for teaching. He could command attention of a room (especially from the girls), and he liked the thought of having authority. And after teaching kids with the age range 11-18, he realized something: he liked children. He actually wondered what it would be like to have a little Draco of his own. 'Ergh, that felt weird admitting even thought it was all mentally'.

He heard a knock come to his door. Draco turned.

Ginny stood in her Hogwarts robes but gentle curls framed her face and touches of colors were added to her eyelids and lips. "You wanted to see me?"

Draco nodded and walked up to her. "I have something for you." He handed her a silver wrapped package. "A graduation present, if you will."

"You didn't have to."

"I know," he smirked.

Ginny rolled her eyes.

"Well, it's not roses; you have enough of those."

"Not really; I threw them all away."

Draco's eyebrows furrowed. "Why? I put a lasting charm so they wouldn't die--."

"Gullible, gullible Draco," Ginny smiled. "So, where will you stay for the summer?"

"Dumbledore helped me find a place to stay while matters… cool off," he answered.

"And will I see you during the summer?"

Draco smirked. "A Malfoy making housecalls for a Weasley? Has the world gone flat?"

Ginny thrust the silver package to his chest, scowling.

"You know I was kidding. Just open it," Draco said, giving it back to her.

"Honestly," Ginny huffed, "do you ever think before you--," she pulled off the wrapping and opened the box, "—speak?" Inside laid a small silver winged dragon with jade eyes. She pulled it out and laid it in her hand, admiring the old and elaborate craftsmanship. "Draco… what a beautiful necklace…" she immediately wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him, whispering many thank-yous.

He wrapped his arms around her, fingers lost in her soft red curls. That necklace dated back to the 15th century. He obtained it from his mother just a few days ago. It was an heirloom, an antique that was given to the women of the Malfoys. He made a mental note to visit the Burrows soon, more than ever to speak with her parents. Draco Malfoy had a lot of explaining to do.

…happily ever after.

Part Two: Undivided: Fin