Blonde hair matted with red as blood pools around the shockingly white body. He is completely un-moving. Not even a gentle rise and fall of his breath. Or a flickering of his eyelids. Just broken, gouged raw flesh and the remnants of tears he had cried for her. His lips parted from his final cry of her name.
The shattering of her heart rang out around the cold dark room while the smell of damp and metallic blood filled her nose and mouth. Bile rose in her throat and her knees buckled. She reached for him but with every inch she got closer the further away he would drift. Always out of reach.
Laughing filled the room and bounced off of every surface until it vibrated through her bones. It is only then that she noticed the many hooded figures surrounding her and the broken body before her. The skeletal marks with barely visible eyes pressed into her, letting her know this is all her fault.
She allowed this to happen.
Gentle fingers stroked the hair from her face and the tears from her cheeks. Lips pressed to her forehead, her cheeks in search of her lips, and in the dark they found them. The smell of peppermint toothpaste, green apples and sandalwood overwhelmed her, blocking the smell of decay and she knew she was now safe.
Hermione stroked her hands up Draco's body to cup his face.
"What have i done? This is all my fault!" She gagged on her sobs.
"This is not your fault! Don't say that! Please don't cry for me.! He whispered aggressively before kissing each of her closed eyes.
"But they killed you! Because of me! Because they knew about my feelings! Someone saw us!." Hermione croaked out, tears still streaming
"I am not dead Hermione. This is all a bad dream. Everything will be okay, we just need to give it time. Together we can work it out." he soothed
Draco cradled her head as he lay her back onto her bed and resting over her body. His hands cupped her face forcing her to see the small smile playing on his lips. It is only then that Hermione realises that he has taken from that in that hell, replacing it with the protecting of her dorm. They were surrounded by the softness of her bedding and gentle light through the window.`
"I wouldn't change what has happened between us for anything or anyone." He kissed her tenderly, forcing her lips in long slow movements, sucking on her bottom lip as it pinched between her own.
Her hands sank into his hair and gripped it greedily while she ran her tongue across his lips. Draco groaned and she took the opportunity to invade his mouth with her tongue. Seeking further distracting from the horror she had seen and the putrid taste still coating her mouth.
Draco's hand slipped down her body and hooked under her knee and lifted it to his hip, his groin instantly colliding with hers. The sweet agony of bone on bone as their hips connect. She stroked her other leg up his, her toes pulled over the soft fabric of his trousers as she worked her legs around his hips and started to grind herself up against the evident bulge pressed into her core.
Draco's soft moans spurred her on and she thrusted her hips up into him harder seeking the friction they both craved. And chasing away the last remnants of her nightmare.
He gripped her hip in a fervent attempt to slow her movements as he trailed kisses down her neck. Her head dropped back to give him access. His hand slipped under her top and stroked slowly up Hermione's torso to her left breast, nipple already pointed and ready. He cupped her warm bosom gently and brushed his thumb over and around the erect nipple, eliciting a gasping moan.
Through the thin material of her T-shirt he took her nipple between his teeth, the heat from his already panting breath moistening the fabric. His tongue flicked over the sensitive bud, making her back arch and her chest press against him.
His hand skimmed down her body to the waistband of her pyjamas in slow tickling movements.
She held Draco's jaw and pulled him to face her, their lips colliding. Hermione couldn't hold back her whimper for more.
His hand crept into her pyjamas and cupped her soft warm mound, running his fingers delicately through the smattering of pubic hair.
He drew back to watch her face, eyes hooded with lust as he slowly ran a finger from the front of her slit down over my swollen clit then back again.
Her eyes closed and brow creased, mouth falling open in a gasp at the sensation. Draco's lips parted in aww at the magnificent sight of her ecstasy. He did it again, the whimper that slipped past her lips was enough to bring him close to his own peak.
"I want you now" Draco whispered, his lips brushing her ear "Please wake up. Come and find me."
Hermione woke with a start, panting into the darkness, aroused and wanting. She touched her hand between her legs and could feel the wetness absorbed by her pyjamas.
A moment of realisation dawned on her and she knew what she needed to do.
She snuck out of bed and crept to the boys dorms in search of the man that had saved her from her dreams.
The door opened silently as she pushed it open a jar and peeked into the dark room, even knowing full well that she wouldn't find him breathing softly in his slumber.
Of course his bed was empty, the curtain left open as if leaving a message for her to seek him. She left the room hoping she hadn't woken anyone when it clicked shut and headed down the stairs. When she reached the entrance hall she peered around the wall into the kitchenette to see that it was empty also.
Her heart raced as she thought about how this was the most exhilarating game of hide and seek she had ever encountered.
She moved to the common room which again was empty and dark except for the light coming from the library, spilling out from under the door at the back of the room. She tiptoed closer and slowly opened the door.
Draco readied himself for her arrival, suppressing the urge to run through the door and find her. The image of her parted panting lips raced through his mind and his cock twitched in response. This little game of hide and seek adding to the anticipation.
He heard the shuffling of feet approaching, the excitement building in his chest. In a few short seconds he would be lost entirely to the spell Hermione had cast on him.
He needed to keep it together as long as possible.
Draco moved into the centre of the room ready to be discovered by the magnificent creature hunting him.
Hermione slowly pushed the door wide open to reveal the masterpiece that was Draco Malfoy. Looking every bit the Adonice from her dream. His green flannel pyjama bottoms low on his hip revealing a light blond line of pubic hair below his belly button and the smooth expanse of his thin but muscular creamy white torse. Hermione couldn't help but notice how similar his rib cage was to her own, his skin looking painfully tight over the bones, making her want to stroke the pain away. The Sectumsempra skar crossing across his chest and under his heart was pearlescent against his skin.
The fabric of his pyjamas clung under his gaunt hip bones in such a way that his erection was evident and inviting. Like everything else about him, so painfully and beautifully inviting.
Hermione stepped into the room, closing the door silently behind her, her eyes never leaving Draco's as she leant back against the cold wood. Her skin seemed to vibrate with anticipation as his eyes trailed over her body, focusing on every detail. The excitement was too much for her, and it seemed to focus between her legs. Her arousal from her dream was still thumbing through her veins. Hermione squeezed her legs together, much to Draco's delight.
He prowled silently toward her, like a panther ensuring he doesn't frighten away his prey.
Hermione's panting was filling the room. The anticipation for the both was almost tangible.
Draco stopped a mere foot away from Hermione, watching her chest as it heaved, the way her legs squirmed with excitement, the way her bottom lip rolled between her teeth and finally the way her eyes flickered between his.
"You found me" Draco whispered, fighting the urge to pounce.
"I did" she whispered back. Draco noticed how Hermione's voice caught in her throat causing her to gulp, drawing his eyes to her long elegant neck.
Oh how he wanted to taste it again.
"You want this is much as I do Hermione." Her breath hitched when he said her name. A smirk creeping across his lips.
"Your body is telling me how much you crave me Hermione. But you need to know, if we give in to this, I will never let you go. I've dreamt of this for too long. Too many fantasies need to be fulfilled and they all center around you." He moved closer, Hermione's breathing picked up, her chest fluttering against his. Forcing her to tilt her head back inorder to see his face.
"So this is your chance to run. If you have any feelings left for Weasley, leave now. If you do not return my feelings, leave now. If you can't truly be mine… this is your chance to escape."
Hermione felt like she may hyperventilate if she didn't regain her breath. Draco's words washed over her. She craved nothing more than to give in to her need for Draco but she had to consider whether she truly could give herself entirely to him. They weren't friends, never had been, but they were far from enemies in this limbo where it seemed she had the power to choose where they landed.
She had no feelings for Ron anymore, of course they were friends but she had no desire for anything more. However she knew how hurt he and Harry would be if she did choose Draco.
Waiting for Hermione's brain to work was like torture for Draco. The heat radiating from her body and the sweet smell of her engulfed all of his senses. He took a deep breath of her heavenly scent which he realised was a huge mistake as his cock twitched in response. It was taking everything in him not to throw her up against the wall.
Draco raised his hands to rest on the door either side of Hermione's head in an attempt to restrain himself from touching her.
The movement pulled Hermione from her turmoil. She raked her eyes from his feet which were planted firmly to the wooden floor. Up his tight, tense body. She finally settled on his face, his eyes screwed shut and pain evident on his furrowed brow. She knew. And she thought about how she had known for far longer than she would like to admit…
"I'm yours…"
Draco's eyes shot open to meet the glittering golden pools of chocolate as they focused on his. All restraint left his body as he wound his fingers into her thick curls, pulling her lips to meet his as his body pushed flush against her. The pent up want he had held for too long spilled out of him in a groan, filling Hermione's mouth as she opened it wide, begging for his tongue's invasion.
Hermione felt the cold of the wood hard against her back as Draco pushed her high against the door, bringing her level with him. Her legs wrapped around his waist as her arms clung over his shoulders pulling him close. The instant friction at the apex of her legs caused her to cry out. The sensitivity of her mornings fantasy had never left her body.
Draco's hands slipped down Hermione's body and round the smooth circle of her buttocks. Gripping it tightly to support her as he moved them toward the leather sofa in the corner of the room.
He never removed his lips from Hermione's until he had landed her safely on her back. He stoked his nose over her jaw, forcing her head back to reveal the pulse fluttering in her neck. He pressed his tongue to that delicate spot, tasting the sweetness of her skin. He glided his tongue slowly up her throat before capturing her ear lobe between his teeth and growling with intent.
He wanted to take this slow and show her how precious she had become to him, but this meant fighting his urge to take her and make her scream his name like he knew she would if he pounded into her.
"What is this spell you have cast on me?" He whispered as he slowly pushed Hermione's T-shirt up to reveal the achingly tight skin over her waist and ribs. Her perfectly smooth round bare breasts, her delicate rosebud nipples hard and wanting.
The delight in Draco's eyes was tantalising as Hermione watched him take her puckered nipple between his teeth and flick his tongue over the tingling nerves. His left hand cupped her left breast as he caressed and squeezed the flesh .
The sensations were all too much and Hermione couldn't hold back her moan as she arched her back and pressed herself into his assault.
"It is me that has been spellbound." She panted.
Draco moaned loudly as he continued his mouth lower and lower until he dropped onto his knees between Hermione's legs. He looked up into her eyes, watched for her reaction as he leant forward and kissed the sensitive area over her pyjamas. The smell of her arousal was like a drug. He had to taste it.
In one swift moment Draco had whipped off Hermione's pyjamas causing her to close her legs instinctively.
"Don't hide from me Hermione."
Draco kissed her knee, then the other knee and stroked his hands up her thighs, guiding her legs apart.
He stopped to take in the glorious sight of her glistening folds.
"You are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen." He whispered and quickly ran his tongue up her slit ripping a gasp from her chest.
"Mmmm" he moaned and kissed that perfect spot making Hermione gasp again. He pulled her hips forward so her arse was barely resting on the corner of the couch.
He positioned his mouth over her clit and licked at it hungrily. He sucked hard on her bud, his fingers tracing her dripping entrance. Hermione couldn't control the need to thrust her hips up to meet them.
"Fuck!" She cried and Draco chuckled, his breath vibrating against her.
Excruciatingly slowly Draco pushed just one finger tip in, then out, then in, then out. Hermione moaned in frustration, thrusting forward in an attempt to make him fill her.
"What do you want Hermione?" Draco purred in a playful tone.
"I need you inside of me!" Draco groaned and sucked hard on her clit again as his two fingers thrusted in, then hook up into that body quacking button. Hermione mewled loudly and instinctively rolled her hips into him. Draco cock throbbed for its release as he quickened his assault on her g-spot and lapt his tongue over her clit fast and firm.
He couldn't control his need for release. He ran his left hand over her dripping sex, collecting the precious juices on his fingers before rubbing them over his thick shaft, squeezing tight at the near explosion this act alone caused. He pulled back from her and groaned loudly, squeezing his eyes shut to block at the magnificent sight of her. He steadied his breath before opening his eyes to find her watching him, her eyes hooded and dark, hungry, while she pinched and rolled her nipples.
Hermione felt the need to lick his face clean of her juices but she didn't want to disturb the brilliance of the scene before her. Draco's head thrown back glistening in the light from her own arousal, cock in hand and the growl from his chest was almost enough to send her spiralling.
She ran her foot up the side of his arm, the only encouragement he needed to dive head first back between her legs. He sucked at the skin on her inner thigh, then each side of her outer lips before slipping his tongue back through her. Hermione's head threw back with a cry and Draco pushed his fingers back into her slowly, she writhed breathless before him and the hand gripping his cock tightened. He pushed his fingers in and up, stroking that ecstasy button again and again while he glided her juices over his cock at the same pace. He licked in slow circles around her clit until he could feel her thighs shaking against his cheek. His actions quickened. The stroking became harder, faster, deeper while his tongue zoned in on the delicate nub. Her walls quivered around him and her moans became almost silent pleading.
Hermione felt herself climbing, electricity building, her legs were shaking and then thousands of electric waves passed through her body as she came on Draco's fingers and tongue. Her whole body was feeling the impact.
Her body went limp and she slid off the sofa into Draco's lap. Every muscle in her body twitched and tingled as she rode out her orgasm.
Draco held her tight and stroked her hair as he enjoyed the feel of her shaking vulnerability.
I want to stay this way forever.
"Me too" Draco whispered in response.
Hermione placed her hand on Draco's cheek and kissed him tenderly, tasing herself on his lips.
"Are you a legilimens, Mr Malfoy?"
He sighed and looked away.
"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have intruded…" Draco's jaw clenched at his own stupidity.
"What do you mean Draco?"
"At first I needed to know why you kept watching me. I thought it was because you and your friends had a plan to ruin me. After everything I have done I would understand but I also couldn't allow that to happen."
Draco's eyes returned to Hermione's, his hand stroking her back.
"When I realised why you were watching me and your feelings for me, I knew I couldn't hide my own feelings any longer. I-."
Before he could say anything else Hermione kissed him long and passionately. She moved to straddle him, reignited by his words and touch.
Draco ran his hands into her hair pulling gently so she moaned and he could invade her mouth once again with his tongue.
Hermione ran her hand down over his smooth skin to the waistband of his trousers. Draco grabbed her wrist and brought her hand into his lips, kissing the knuckles.
"Not now" he said and pressed his forehead to hers. "Everyone will be waking up soon, and as much as I'd love to see the look on their faces when they saw us…"
Hermione nodded.
"I agree. I don't think anyone would understand. Ron and Harry…" she trailed off. "I don't know if they will ever understand…" Hermione focused on a spot on the wall behind Dracos back, trying to ignore the feeling of guilt and shame that was bubbling within her at the thought of lying to the only people she considered to be her family.
Draco watched as her face morphed into an expression of pain and sadness.
"If you want to back out of whatever this is Hermione, do it now. Before this goes too far…" Draco lifted Hermione off of his lap and stood, pacing away from her, making space between them and turning his back to her, refusing to let her see the hurt that was creeping into his features.
"That's not what I mean." she stepped closer, reaching out her hand to stroke up his spine. "I just-." He turned to her, clearly trying to suppress the anger that was setting in.
"You just what, Hermione, Got curious? Wondered what it would be like to sleep with the enemy?!" He stepped in closer to her, brows knitted together and teeth grinding. "And now you are going to tell your little friends about how you tricked the snake into letting his guard down and laugh at my expense? Has this all been an act for you? Convince me you may feel more than just disgust for me just to humiliate me?"
Hermione took a step back, eyes wide and nervous.
"Of course not! There was never an act! THIS is not an act!" she practically screamed as she squared her shoulders and stepped into him. "I am not some childish girl who finds fun in playing with people's emotions or feelings. If I do something it is because I believe, whole heartedly, that it is for good! Especially when I know the danger it could cause! "
Anger rushed through her and she pushed his chest hard, but he was an unmoving wall. She hit his chest and when there was no reaction from him she started to beat her fists against him.
"It was you who started this Draco! With your un-asked for touching and pulling me into cupboards. Maybe it is you who has been playing with me. Filling my mind with images and making me believe that you feel something toward me. Maybe this is all part of your game!"
She heaved heavy breaths and her fist continued to thud against him, creating a hollow thud that filled the room.
Draco grasped her wrists, holding them together in his chest, over his heart. They could both feel the rapid drumming on his chest and the pulsing beat through her veins. Draco smiled down at Hermione's fiery red face, her lips pulled into a hard line and eyes that refused to look at him.
"Maybe…" he started. "we are as foolish as each other… Maybe, we have both fallen into something we cannot deny to each other. But, maybe, we can figure this out… but for now… we need to keep this to ourselves."
Hermione steadied her breath and her creased forehead relaxed. She remained silent for a while, running through the events that had occured between them. Events that started before his return from Azkaban. Things he didn't even know. She had always felt something. She had thought it was pity, and she supposed she had pitied him. She remembered taking the stand in the Ministry where she told her account of events and how she had to restrain herself from pleading his innocence. She let her mind wander to that day in Diagon Alley and the electricity she felt in his presence even then. The way her body reacted to his touch in potions class. It was undeniable to her now. But still she feared the reaction of others. A Friendship encouraged by the Headmistress was something she could explain but this, whatever this was she knew people would struggle to understand.
Hermione felt a pushing in her mind and her eyes snapped up to Draco's face, finding his features soft and nervous.
"You need to stop that." she said with a tone of slight irritation.
"Stop what?" he smirked
"Pushing into my mind. There are things you don't need to know. At least not yet. Maybe one day I will tell you but I want to do that in my own time. When i feel it is right."
Draco nodded, his hands slipped around her waist and pulled her closer, his lips pressing to her forehead.
"You're right, i'm sorry. In time…"
Hermione headed down for breakfast early, feet dragging with exhaustion from the early morning antics with Draco and lack of sleep from her nightmares.
She felt like she hadn't eaten since getting back to Hogwarts, and when she thought back on her times in The Great Hall since returning she realised that she really hadn't eaten much at all. As she headed to the Gryffindor table, she ran a hand over her protruding rib cage and found it was no softer than when she had returned. Her hands skimmed down to her sharp hip bones and she frowned at her inability to look after herself.
Her stomach growled in anger in response to her lack of self-care.
She sat herself in her usual seat, facing The Great Hall and allowed the wonderful smells of breakfast to take over her. With new zeal, she loaded her plate with Sausage, bacon, toast and eggs and started shovelling them into her mouth. There were very few students in the hall so Hermione found she wasn't embarrassed to stuff her face with so few people to judge her exuberance.
"Watch you don't choke eating like that Hermione." Ron laughed while he swung his leg over the bench next to her and lowered himself to sit facing her, his legs spread wide.
For a brief moment Hermione imagined what Draco's reaction would be if she was to sit in front of him like that. Especially in her school skirt that she had decided to have a few inches shorter than she would have in years quickly pushed this thought away and choked slightly on the sausage in her mouth. She put down her fork, chewing through the huge mouthful.
"See." Ron stated as he slapped her hard on the back.
"Don't listen to him Mione, it's good to see you eat again. I was getting worried". Ginny grinned, dropping into the seat opposite her.
"You always worry about me, MOLLY" Hermione teased Ginny with a loving tone.
Ginny's eyes widened and she looked toward Harry and Ron as if expecting them to help her. "I'm not that bad!" ginny exclaimed.
"You kind of are." Ron grimaced, waiting for a fist to fly at his face. When it didn't come he continued. "You are always fretting over her. All of us really. And it's getting quite annoying actually."
"Not that we don't appreciate you!" Hermione jumped in quickly. "And we understand why. And, and, we don't love you any less for it!" She Jabbed Ron in the ribs with her elbow.
"Right!"
Ginny glared at them both before rounding on Harry. "And do you feel the same?"
"You are just showing how much you love them Dear." Harry cleared his throat. "Aaanyway," He says, turning away from Ginny, much to her dismay. "Are you still coming to HogsMeade today? Since we have late curfew we thought we could go to the Hogs Head and see Aberforth. Maybe have a few fire whiskeys!"
"Go on Mione." "Please!" Ron and Ginny pleaded in unison, Ginny obviously choosing to forget the hurt as excitement set in.
Hermione glanced over at the Slytherin table to see Draco deep in conversation with Blaise and Theo. she smiled to herself when she saw how animated he looked about his conversation. A warm feeling spread through her chest to see him looking some what more relaxed than usual.
"Of course I'm going! It feels like ages since we've had some real fun." Her friends raised their eyebrows at the uncharacteristic announcement. "First round is on me!"
Ron whooped in her ear as he dragged her into a bone crushing hug. "It's so good to see you getting back to normal. I thought we had lost you for a while."
"What do you mean?" Hermione looked at Ginny and Harry for support only to find them deep in their own conversation.
"Well, you know, Ginnys not wrong… you haven't been right since everything happened. And you are so thin I feel like you could break. And you have avoided us quite a lot, even more so since we got back here." Ron scooped Hermione's hands into his and squeezed them in what he hoped was a reassuring way. "I think this is the first time I've seen you eat in months, and I'm not trying to upset you. I just want you to know it's nice to see you feeling better. And i hope you continue to feel better." he squeezed her fingers again while ducking his head to make eye contact with her.
"I'm, I'm sorry… I didn't mean for anyone to worry. It's been so hard… but, I know it's been hard for everyone. I promise, I'm trying Ron, I really am."
Ron lifted her chin with his knuckle and gave her his most joyous grin. "That's all I ask."
Hermione smiled sadly as Ron turned to his breakfast and the conversation settled around her. When allowed herself to look over to the Slytherin table again, she found Draco stealing glances at her, cheeks rosy and brows cinched together.
Breakfast was just about over and the conversation in the hall was picking back up as people finished eating, when Professor McGonnagall stood at the podium and addressed the school.
"I hope that everyone has enjoyed being back at Hogwarts. I must say I am so proud of how well you have all coped with being back." She smiled fondly as her students.
"In the interest of moving forward we have decided this year will hold many holiday celebrations. As well as the usual feasts we will hold parties and balls. So of course,this means we will be holding a Halloween Dance for the 7th and 8th year students."
The crowd went wild, cheering and chatting excitedly.
"Fancy dress is encouraged! We understand you will not be able to find this is HogsMeade so for today, those who can, have permission to apparate to Diagon Alley for their shopping. All curfews are still in place! That is all."
Loud chatter erupted among the students and the excitement in the room felt electrified.
"What will you dress as?!" Ginny asked as she rounded suddenly on Hermione, face alight with possibilities.
"No idea! I honestly hadn't thought about celebrations this year. Can you help me find something?"
Ginny clapped her hands. "God YES! You are going to be so sexy this year, you are free and single and ready to mingle!" Ginny gave Ron a pointed look, making him shift uncomfortably in his seat.
Before Hermione could protest to Ginny's ideas about her costume, Ginny jumped out of her seat. "I'm going to get ready. I'll meet you in two hours by the entrance to your wonderful Manor."
Hermione laughed at Ginny's excitement. "See you later."
Hermione took out Ginny's skirt and examined her wardrobe to see if she could pair it with something different. She looked out of the window over the Black lake to see dark clouds rolling over the horizon bringing with it the impending chill of winter. She shivered with the anticipation of it and hung the skirt back in its place. Deciding instead on her trusty old jeans and a blue jumper she had always loved. She threw her trainers on before inspecting herself in the mirror. Ginny would disapprove of her lack of effort but Hermione really didn't have much to play with. Most of her clothes were still too big for her. The only reason these jeans fit so well is because they were one of the only things she had bought herself after the battle.
She twisted her hair back into two pigtails that curled down her front and blackened and elongated her lashes. At least Ginny couldn't say she didn't try.
Hermione threw her coat and scarf over her arm and made her way to the entrance hall on her way to meet Ginny, Ron and Harry outside.
When she reached the bottom step two arms wrapped around her waist and she was pulled into the storage cupboard under the stairs.
Hermione already knew who it was before Dracos lips found hers. He pinned her against the wall and kissed her deeply, hand gliding up her body to cup her face and tilt her head back.
Hermione reluctantly pulled away and pressed her hands to his chest.
"It's nice to see you too." She giggled.
"When I saw the sexy little arse of yours in those tight jeans swaying down the stairs I couldn't help myself." Draco grinned darkly grabbing hold of her firm cheeks and squeezed them, lifting her just barely off the floor, kissing her again.
"I have to go." Hermione whispered against his lips, though the way she clung to him told them both how much she wanted to stay in that dark little room with him.
"No." Draco kissed her neck.
"I do. I'm meeting Harry, Ron and Ginny to go to Diagon Alley."
Draco groaned, biting down gently over the pulse in her throat.
"Fine, but you're missing out." he licked up to her ear and captured the lobe in his teeth. Hermione whimpered just slightly, melting into him. Draco chose that moment to step back, letting her wobble on unstable feet, a smirk on his perfect lips. "Promise me you'll meet me. 2pm in Borgin and Burkes."
"I can't go there. It's not safe for me and in all honesty Draco i don't think it's a good idea for you to be seen there either." Draco's heart warmed at the worry and panic in Hermione's voice.
"Shh don't worry. No one will hurt you if I am there. I still have my power with those low lives." He stuttered. "I mean, they still respect the Malfoy name… and what it used to mean."
Hermione hesitated.
"Okay… 2pm. But I have to go now." She kissed Draco once more. "I'll see you soon."
She heard a chuckle as she ran from his clutches.
"So where are we apperating too?" Ron asked as they left the protection of the school grounds.
"We can go to Madam Malkins first, see what she's got and if she can't do anything we can try Twilfitt and Tattings." Ginny said excitedly.
"Sorry Gin but there is no way we can afford Twilfitt. You have more chance of mum knitting you a tea cozy to wear." Ron said apologetically.
"Don't be stupid Ron. If you guys find something you want, I'll get it. No big deal." Harry shrugged.
"No Harry, that is a huge deal you don't need to do that." Ginny sighed. "Ron's right…"
"I want to. Besides if I think you look hot in something I'm gonna buy it, and if Ron looks ridiculous in something I'll definitely buy it" Harry laughed pulling Ginny to his side.
"If you want me to have a ridiculous costume maybe I should brew a polyjuice potion and go as Malfoy." Ron joked causing Harry and Ginny to laugh hysterically.
Hermione blushed angrily.
"Ron! Don't be so cruel!" She shouted.
"Calm down Mione. I was joking. I wouldn't waste my time on becoming a Malfoy." He spat out his name. "Besides. I've already been a Slytherin and I didn't like it much." Ron laughed again and Hermione couldn't help but chuckle at the memory.
"Madame Malkins then. Let's go!" She turned on the spot and vanished.
It had been hours and Hermione still hadn't found anything she found remotely interesting, unless she wanted to go as a poor portrayal of a cat. And let's face it, Hermione had been there, done that and didn't want to go there again.
"There's nothing here." Ginny groaned. "We have to go to Twilfitt and Tattings."
Harry and Ron looked up from their seat on the floor, looking utterly defeated and bored. Ron had found his costume at least an hour ago while Harry was just waiting to be told what he was going to wear. And neither of them looked pleased about the prospect of going to another shop.
"Come on then, we have no time to waste!" Ginny grabbed Harry by the arm and hauled him out of the shop, Hermione and Ron trailing behind.
"Are you coming?" Blaise asked as he marched into the common room to find Draco.
"Nah, I don't need to go to Diagon alley and I don't feel like walking round in the cold for hours." Draco stated nonchalantly, his eyes never leaving his book.
"You don't need a costume?" Blaise asked as he dropped into the armchair opposite.
Draco hesitated. He didn't want to let slip his plans. "Nah. I don't think I'll go to the dance."
Blaise frowned. "Come on! I need my wing man! Besides, think how hot all the girls will look in their sexy little outfits!"
"I'll think about it."
"About going? Or the girls in sexy outfits?" Blaise winked.
"Wouldn't you like to know?" Draco retorted.
"Well you should come with me anyway. Get out for a bit. Unless... you have secret plans with a secret girl…" He probed. Draco finally put the book down and smirked at Blaise.
"I knew it! Who is it?!"
"I'm not saying."
"It's not Pansy again is it? Oh PLEASE NO! I can't deal with the drama!" Blaise paused in thought. "No, you seem to be avoiding her…"
"It most definitely is not Parkinson!"
He watched Draco intently for a moment, eyebrow cocked in his direction as he scrutinised his friends' uncomfortable fidgeting.
"It's not Daphne, she's been flirting outrageously with Theo… I suppose it could be a girl from a different house... its not a Hufflepuff is it?" Draco snorted and Blaise narrowed his eyes.
"It couldn't be… no she would never…" He mused. "But then I have seen her staring at you alot… and you do seem friendlier since you spend so much time together now…"
Draco's face turned sturn. "Don't say it Blaise. Don't even-."
"Granger! Of course! It must be Granger! I've seen the way you stare at each other. I could tell something was going on!"
Draco jumped up and slammed his hand over Blaise's mouth.
"Shhhhhhh. Keep the fucking noise down!" Draco looked around making sure no one had heard and removed his hand.
"Why is it a secret?" Blaise asked in a whisper.
"It's complicated." Draco stated. "To many risks if people knew. I would think you could piece it together."
Blaise nodded in understanding. "So she finally likes you back?"
"What do you mean 'Back'?"
"I've known for years mate, you aren't as much of a closed book as you think you are."
Draco shifted uncomfortably. "I'm meeting her at 2pm. I'm taking her to London to buy her a costume."
"How cute you are Malfoy, who knew?" Blaise huffed a laugh. "Well when you are done I'll be in the Hogs Head if you want to join me?"
"We'll see." Draco smiled, returning to his book.
Ginny and Harry were trying on robes while Ron had gotten bored and decided to go and see George at the shop.
"Wanna come with me?" Ron asked as he stood from his chair and pulled his coat on. Hermione checked her watch. It was nearing 2pm and Hermione's nerves were getting the better of her. This was her only chance to escape without questioning.
"I would love to but i still haven't found anything… tell George I say hi and I promise to see him next time. I swear." Ron grinned his best sunshine grin.
"No worries Mione, i'll see you at the pub. Don't forget you owe me a drink!" He called over his shoulder as he left.
Hermione turned to tell the others she was skipping out but found them deep in debate over their choice in costume. If she was quick she could skip out to see Draco, grab the rubbish cat costume from Malkins and be back before they had made a decision.
Hermione couldn't stop herself from looking over her shoulder for anyone that would recognise her as she made her way to Knockturn Alley. She knew full well that if anyone saw her entering the dodgy street they would question her. It's not a place well meaning witches or wizards tended to visit.
Entering the narrow built up streets, Hermione instantly felt unsafe within the cold shadows. Men and women in dark robes watched her intently. She knew they recognised her by the way they would stare as she passed or run into hiding. Their whispers sent chills up her spine as they started behind her back.
The hairs on the back of Hermione's neck stood on end. The chill of danger was all too familiar to the witch and the sense of being followed had her on edge and preparing to fight. She tried to navigate the dark streets with panic rising in her chest.
How foolish can I be?
Hermione clutched her wand under her sleeve, ready to defend herself. She turned corner after corner through the seemingly never ending street until she found her path blocked. She turned to retrace her steps and found herself surrounded by dark cloaks and hooded figures closing in on her. Pain seized her chest and crept up to clench her throat as she struggled to breath over the rising panic. She pressed herself against the wall behind her, dragging in strangled breaths, willing this to be a nightmare where she'll wake up in the protection of her bed. It was all too sickeningly familiar.
Images of snatchers drafted behind her eyelids as she squeezed them shut. The smell of damp and the feel of the sharp claw like nails of Fenrir Greyback took over Hermione's senses. It felt too real to be a memory.
Hermione's adrenalin ripped through her body as she raised her wand toward the swarming bodies.
"Expelliarmus!" A shadowed man shouted, red sparks shone from his wand as Hermione's wand flew from her hand, landing just out of reach. She collapsed to her knees dragging in breaths that wouldn't come. Reaching for her wand.
Screaming "ACCIO" she stretched her hand toward her wand as her struggling breaths came fewer and fewer. Hermione scorned herself for how weak she had become since the terror of the war had left her so broken. She was stronger. She needed to be stronger.
She couldnt help but think how bloody stupid it was, that this was how she would meet her demise. After everything. By following Draco Malfoy right into the enemy's clutches…
"Petrificus totalus!" Draco's voice boomed and vibrated down the walls of the street. The surrounding bodies jumped back and scattered like rats as the man who had disarmed her fell rigidly to the floor. Then everything went dark.
"GET AWAY!" Draco aimed his wand toward the few figures that had remained. "If anyone touches her I will kill you." He warned.
"If I remember correctly, Draco, you don't have the strength to kill anyone. Least of all an old friend."
Draco stilled at the sound of Scabiors voice prickling his skin.
"I don't think I've ever regarded you as a friend Scabior. Be if appearances are anything to go by it still looks like you are the same piece of shit slave doing someone else's dirty work.
Scabiors shoulder straightened as he drew himself taller. "I'll have you know Welp, I have far more power these days than even your father had." A sickening grin spread across his face.
"Still doing the snatching yourself though I see. Can't find anyone to take orders since your friends were all killed?"
Three hooded bodies edged closer.
"That is where you are mistaken. Now if you would step aside brat I have a new pet to collect." He gestures towards Hermione's limp body crumpled on the cobblestones.
Draco drew his wand higher pointing directly at the greasy snatchers face. "I said. Don't. Touch. Her." He said through gritted teeth. Movement in the corner in his vision drew his attention. A filth hag was creeping closer to Hermione ready to grab her.
Draco spun on his heel. "Stupidly!" The hag shot back and a nasty crack echoed as her head hit the stone walls, landing in a pile on the floor.
He turned back on Scabior ready to fight. "Potters out there you know." Scabior stiffened. "It wouldn't take much to alert him, and I'm sure the order wouldn't be far behind."
"The redemption is coming, Malfoy. You better make sure you are on the right side when it does." Scabior nodded to his henchmen before disaperating.
"I've got you Hermione," Draco whispered as his strong arms scooped under her shoulders and knees. Even in her compromised state Hermione felt safe against Draco's chest. "Breath, please breath." He carried her into a small dusty shop and sat her in his lap stroking her hair from her face. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry I will never bring you back here. I'm a fucking idiot!"
Hermione couldn't explain it but Draco's presence was soothing to her. The sound of his voice and his sandalwood scent calmed her nerves. Hermione's breath started to return to normal and her heart slowed. She blinked her eyes open to find concern etched into Draco's beautiful face.
Hermione clutched at his shirt and hid her face in his chest breathing in his delicious cologne. "I'm so sorry. I'm so embarrassed!" She cringed.
"Don't be silly. You don't need to be embarrassed I should have thought…" Draco sighed, his hands holding her closer.
"My wand!" Hermione moved to jump up but Draco held her tighter.
"I have it! Don't worry!" He relaxed instantly.
"Thank you for saving me".
"Of course. I'll always save you." Draco kissed her forehead.
Hermione looked at their surroundings.
"Where are we?" She whispered as She saw what looked like dark objects surrounding them on every wall, recognising the old dusty shop from when Harry made them spy on Draco in 6th year.
"Borgin and Burke's. But don't worry. This isn't where I wanted to take you. It is just somewhere we can apparate from without being caught. Although maybe it's best you get some rest instead."
"I'm fine!" Hermione tried to sound convincing. "Where are we going?"
Draco stood before he took Hermione's hand and helped her up. "Do you trust me?"
Hermione nodded without hesitation.
"Hold onto me tight" He whispered in her ear as he placed his hands in her hips. She wrapped her arms around Draco's waist and he apparated them out of the shop.
They found themselves immersed in the smell of exhaust fumes and the sound of bustling people with hard soled shoes clacking on stone pavements when they appeared in an alleyway. Draco instantly walked out onto a busy street, pulling Hermione with him.
"London!" She gasped, squeezing Draco's hand.
"I knew we wouldn't find anything in Diagon Alley. I thought this was the best place to come. I found a costume shop round the corner from here when I last came to London. I was hoping we could get costumes... together." Draco gave Hermione a shy smile.
"But Draco we can't go as a couple… can we?"
"No one has to know it's on purpose, it can be a coincidence. I doubt anyone will even notice if we match in muggle costumes." Hermione couldn't help but smile and hugged him tight, finally excited about the party.
Draco laced their fingers as they rounded the corner and walked toward the tiny shop tucked inconspicuously between two giant department stores.
When they entered Hermione was shocked by how many costumes filled the room. She looked around in wonder and stroked the luxurious materials.
"Draco this is not an ordinary costume shop, this is a theatre costume shop." She touched a dress obviously made for the stage in amazement. "This is very extravagant. I'm not sure I want people to notice me this much". Hermione sighed, feeling self conscious.
Draco stared at Hermione in bewilderment. He couldn't understand how she did not see her own beauty, worth and power and not own it completely.
"Hermione… everybody is already looking at you. You may as well give them something to look at".
She couldn't help but laugh. He did have a point. She couldn't remember the last time she entered a room without any recognising her and staring or whispering about her.
She hated it.
Hermione wandered deeper into the shop, picking out anything she found interesting to inspect. "So what did you have in mind?" She asked Draco, as he headed down the opposite side of the shop.
"I had been thinking we could go as characters from that Peter Pan book you like so much, but when I read it, it said he wears tights, and there's no way I'm wearing tights!" Draco sounded a little disgruntled. Hermione laughed loudly before she registered what he said.
"You read Peter Pan?"
"Well, yeah. You looked so happy when you found it and told Weasley that story. I thought I should see what the fuss was about. I still find it funny how Muggles can read about magic and still have no idea we exist." Hermione blushed realising he had heard her telling Ron about her dad.
"You never talk about them…" Draco said quietly.
"Huh?"
"Your parents. You never talk about them."
"Oh…there's not much to talk about." She turned away but not before Draco noticed the sadness in her eyes.
"May I help you dear's?" They heard a small old lady call from the back of the shop.
"My friend and I are looking for costumes for a party."
"I see! Well if you want something extravagant and breathtaking…" the lady paused as Hermione came round the corner into view. The lady smiled when she saw her. "You my dear have definitely come to the right place. Such beauty deserves a beautiful costume!" She grinned and pinched Hermione's cheek.
"Both of you go into these changing rooms. I have some ideas. I will bring you some clothes to try on."
Hermione looked at Draco with a weary grimace and he laughed.
"Are we showing each other?" She asked.
"Yes! I want to see what you look like. It could be funny. But when you find the one you like just tell me. I don't want to see it until the party."
Hermione nodded and entered the changing room. She began removing her clothes and felt oddly shy knowing there was only a thin wall separating her from Draco doing the same. She could hear him breathing through the thin plaster wall and rested her hand against it as though this would bring them closer.
A knock on the door made Hermione almost jump out of her skin. She opened it for the lady to pass her a white dress with gold accessories. The white toga style gown floated over her body and felt luxurious against her skin. She wrapped the gold belt tightly around her waist and donned the gold sandals, wrapping their coard up her thigh.
Hermione looked at her reflection and instantly started laughing when she realised what Draco would have been given. Her laughter only grew when she saw him. He looked stressed and uncomfortable in a skirt made of leather segments , knee high strappy sandals to rival her own and an armoured chest plate.
"What are we?!" Draco looked horrified when he looked in the mirror and the lady placed a leafy crown on his head.
"Julius Caesar and Cleopatra of course!" The lady tutted "what do they teach you in school these days?" Draco stammered for what to say. "Well if you don't like that I have another idea."
She handed Hermione a beautiful 16th century dress and marched her into the changing room. Hermione stripped off and jumped into the new dress, desperate to try it on.
"Oh no! No way! You are not seeing me in this!" Draco cried from the other room.
"Oh please Draco! I'll show you mine if you show me yours!" Hermione was actually quite pleased with this costume and how the blush pink of the satin made her skin look creamy.
She stepped into a pair of heeled boots and twisted her hair up before she stepped into the shop.
"Ohh!" The lady cood "my Dear you look amazing!" Hermione blushed.
"Wow!" Draco poked his head around the door. "You DO look amazing."
The lady went over and grabbed Draco's arm, dragging him out of his hiding place. Hermione stifled a laugh while the lady looked pleased with her work.
"I think you look quite fetching in tights." Hermione goeded.
Draco scowled at his reflection, pulling at the material on his legs uncomfortably "who are we?"
"Romeo and Juliet." She told him, smoothing the pink and gold fabric of the skirt, running her hands up over her cinched waist.
Draco sighed as he watched her striking out to clasp her fingers and kissing her knuckles.
"Did my heart love till now? forswear it, sight! For I ne'er saw true beauty till this night." He recited.
Hermione watched him in shock and puzzled as to how he knew Romeo and Juliet at all, let alone able to recite it.
"For never was a story of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo… This is a bit too close to our real life… maybe not…" Draco stated sadly.
Hermione nodded in agreement, and returned to the dressing room where she stepped out of the gorgeous gown.
Another knock and the lady passed her a heavily jewelled and sequined silver dress. "I think this is it." she whispered before she disappeared.
Hermione pulled the dress over her head and let the heavy fabric drop over her body. She stepped into the silver and black heels and placed the black headband with feathers and large silver gems pinned to the side, onto her head.
Hermione looked at her reflection and radiated excitement for the book this costume was from. She knew what Draco would be wearing and her excitement grew.
This was perfect.
The dress hugged her figure nicely and the plunging neckline gave her a decent cleavage without being too much. The dress went to the floor with a high slit traveling up her left leg to the top of her thigh.
Hermione felt pretty, maybe even sexy, but modest enough to not be shy.
"This is it!" she called through the wall.
"I totally agree!" He called back.
The lady took their costumes and wrapped them up so neither one could see the others.
Hermione took out her purse to pay but Draco refused to let her, insisting he paid. They took their bags and stepped into the busy street. They had been a little over an hour and She really needed to get back to the gang who she knew would be fretting over where she had disappeared to.
They walked back into the Alley hand in hand, enjoying their last moments.
As soon as they rounded the corner Draco pulled Hermione close and kissed her deeply, prying her lips open so his tongue could work its magic. She dropped her bag and wrapped her arms around his neck until they broke apart panting.
"I have to go." She breathed. "I'm meeting everyone at The Hogs head."
Draco sighed holding her tighter. "I'm meeting Zabini there too, at least i'll be able to keep an eye on you."
Draco kissed her once more before aparating them to the back of the pub.
"If we are lucky we will get some time together before anyone arrives."
