Hello everybody =). Thank you to everyone who reviewed. You all motivate me! And I'm sorry if I have some grammatical errors; I'm usually a perfectionist when it comes to grammar, so clearly I'm failing somewhere! Just point it out to me and I'll fix it =). And speaking of I just realized I did a typo in my last chapter. It was meant to say that the cliffy wasn't that dramatic! Not "was dramatic!"
This is slight song-fic just for a bit. So you'll notice I do 'blah blah' for lyrics =).
As you can see this chapter is quite long! I spent quite a bit of time on it so please keep on reading, it'll be worth it! =D.
Disclaimer: See chapter one.
......HD......HD = interval break
Here we go!:-
Draco's face was completely burnt on one side, his arms were bruised and his leg was bent at an odd angle. His white lab coat and his usual sleek blonde hair was covered in soot.
Smoke was still billowing out of the adjoining potions room and it was causing Harry's throat to close up.
Quickly casting a cleansing spell he reached down and gently picked up Draco before laying him down on the large spacious bed. He strode over to the fireplace and immediately firecalled St. Mungo's.
A few minutes later the fire roared a brilliant emerald before a small black coat button appeared on the floor. Harry quickly casted Wingardium Leviosa on Draco. He gently took one hand in his before grabbing the button and seeing Draco's room spin out of his vision.
The Healers had suggested that portkey would be the safest way to transport Draco. Upon him landing in the foyer, a Healer raced forward and instantly took control. They moved him into an intensive care unit where two Healers ran back and forth casting small spells and taking notes on their respective clipboards.
Harry stood against a wall awkwardly; wanting to join in yet not wanting to disturb anything. After a few minutes where they replaced Draco's burnt clothes to hospital ones, one of the Healer's approached Harry.
"Mr. Potter. I'm Healer Carmentis. Mr. Malfoy and I studied together so I assure you he's in good hands." He said shaking Harry's hand. "Now, how did you find him?"
"There was a huge bang and smoke was billowing out of his potions room. Physically, he pretty much looked like that." He said, indicating towards Draco's body. "I'm assuming Draco made a mistake in brewing a potion?" Harry continued.
"Well everyone knows Mr. Malfoy doesn't make mistakes like that; I have a feeling something else must have gone wrong. Did you notice that he was ill that day? Perhaps very tired?" Carmentis inquired.
"I wasn't there for most of the day that day. But that morning he seemed fine." Harry said thoughtfully.
"Did he intake anything that may have caused him not to perform to his full potential?"
"Not that I'm aware of. When I was with him in the morning, he only had eggs and bacon I'm pretty sure." Harry replied.
Harry was very appreciative of the fact that Healer Carmentis didn't inquire as to why Harry was with him in the morning. Neither did he inquire as to why Harry was in Draco's home tonight. Everyone knew Harry was an Auror in training whilst Draco was the Head Healer; and today was the day they both had days off.
"Ok then. Well we can't do much until he wakes up. The burn on the side of his face will take at least a week to heal and he'll have to stay in here unless he insists on moving back to his home." Carmentis said, turning to face Draco.
Harry's stomach churned at the sight of the burnt and slightly mangled body of the person he had come close to. Carmentis was right; Draco doesn't make silly mistakes like that. He was a perfectionist, even back in Hogwarts. Something went wrong that day and he intended to find out what....as soon as Draco felt ok of course.
"Well we're grateful you got to him in time Mr. Potter. That burn is very deep; the faster we treat it the faster it gets better. Now you can stay here if you like, but there's not much point if he's not awake. So I can suggest you head down to the hall for some food." He suggested, pointing in the direction of the hallway.
"Thanks, but no thanks. I'll just stay here. I mean, he'll probably want to see someone he recognizes when he wakes up." Harry said, trying not to sound too desperate.
"Well I did study with him, so he would recognize me but if you wish Mr. Potter." Carmentis said with an odd expression.
Harry tried not to look to awkward. Carmentis was probably looking at him like that because he was wondering why Harry Potter of all people was at his house tonight AND wanting to stay by his side.
Harry gave a last nod before walking over to the chair beside the bed and taking a seat. His stomach clenched at the sight of Draco's half burnt face. He reached out a hand and slowly, but gently, held his left hand. There were bruises everywhere. His neck, his shoulders, his arms and he could see bruises heading down his torso.
Harry wondered what was going through Draco's mind when he was making that potion. What had caused him to make such an error? Harry sat there for more than hour considering what could have happened. By then, his ass felt flat and his back sore from bending over. He was about to get up for a stretch when a moan from the bed attracted his attention.
Draco's eyes began to open slowly as he moaned in pain.
"Draco?" Harry said softly.
"Harr...Harr..Harry." Draco finally choked out. "Wh-
"Don't speak Draco. You're badly hurt. You could hurt yourself more if you exert yourself." Harry said. The clenching in his stomach had come back so hard it was almost painful.
Draco nodded slowly before slowly closing his eyes again.
Harry looked up to see Carmentis striding in.
"The wards we set around Mr. Malfoy rang off when he woke up." He explained as he strode to the other side of the bed.
Harry's hand immediately slipped out of Draco's when he saw Carmentis.
"Mr. Malfoy?" Carmentis said, leaning in slightly.
Draco's eyes slowly opened.
"How are you feeling?" he continued.
Draco coughed a bit before speaking. "A little burnt."
"Ah yes, well; that would be because half your face is burnt." Carmentis replied with a smirk.
Harry couldn't help but feel that Draco and Carmentis had a history of being good friends.
"Hey Harry." Draco said, turning to him with a smile. Well...a strained smile since half his face was in bad shape.
"Hey Draco. Are you ok?" Harry asked. His eyes were shining with worry and concern. Draco seemed to detect it.
"I've been better. But I would be worse if you hadn't found me right after the explosion." He replied.
Harry was about to speak when Carmentis interrupted.
"Do you remember what happened that day? It may give us a good indication as to why your cauldron blew up."
"I don't remember all that well; it's a bit unclear. Sorry Carmentis, I don't mean to be cold or distant and I appreciate what you're doing here but I can handle myself. As soon as I feel I have a little more energy I'll head home." Draco said firmly.
Harry expected the Healer to go red and start ranting...but he didn't. He nodded understandingly.
"Whatever you want Draco." He said with a nod. "You can leave anytime you like." He said, and with a final nod to the both of them he strode out of the room.
Harry decided to keep a mental note to himself to ask Draco about Carmentis later. He was slightly surprised to see him use first name.
"How long have you been here?" Draco asked as he very slowly pulled himself up into a sitting position.
"About over an hour. You were pretty bloodied up." Harry said, sitting back down.
"Thanks for taking me here Harry. I know I can always count on your heroics." Draco said with a little smile that made Harry's heart flutter.
"That's ok. You wouldn't have been hurt at all if I'd only gotten to your house quicker." Harry said with a frustrated sigh.
Draco's hand snuck out and grabbed Harry's. "Stop berating yourself and being so noble. You found me right after the explosion. I'm grateful."
Harry nodded calmly although on the inside, his heart was sputtering sporadically.
"What happened today Draco?" Harry asked.
"It was nothing serious; I'll tell you when we get back to my place. I spent way too much time here studying; I don't want to be here any longer." Draco said as he very carefully swung his legs to the side.
Harry quickly helped him up, trying very hard not to press on any bruises. Draco elegantly flicked his wand so that his proper [now cleansed] clothes were back on. He was just about to comment on Harry's worrying expression when he caught the sight of his face on one of the mirrors.
"Bloody Merlin. Look at my face!" He exclaimed his mouth opened in slight shock.
"Don't worry. Carmentis said it would be healed in just a week." Harry said whilst placing a hand gently on his lower back in an attempt to calm him.
"I know...but I look horrible." Draco said with a monotonic voice.
"You look beautiful." Harry blurted out.
Draco slowly turned to Harry and surveyed his blushing face.
"I would kiss you. But half my face is burnt." Draco said with a smile. He was very much enjoying the reddening blush that was increasing on Harry's face.
Harry wrapped a gentle arm around Draco's waist. Draco opened his mouth slightly to ask what he was doing when Harry leant forward and placed a tender kiss on the non-burnt side of Draco's lips.
"You don't look hideous. You're as gorgeous as ever." Harry said as he pulled away.
"You know...I would ask what brought on this sudden affection but...I like it too much to question it right now." Draco said softly.
Harry linked his fingers in Draco's. "I think I'm almost done considering about us." Was all Harry said before he reached for the black button portkey and the sight of St. Mungo's disappeared.
The black button vanished the instant they arrived back in Draco's Grande suite. Harry helped Draco get back into his bed before he flicked his wand so that Draco's clothes were replaced with some pyjamas.
"Thanks." Draco said.
"It's ok. Do you need anything else? I can sleep in a chair in this room if you'd like." Harry suggested already looking around for a chair.
"Relax Harry I'm fine. This face will heal in a week as long as I apply some salve every night. The bruises and the bones should be fine in a few days. I'm going to floo my department tomorrow and let them know what happened." Draco replied with a laugh.
"Are you sure? I can do it for you. I can just get the medical records from St. Mungo's and show your department and you-
"Harry!" Draco said loudly. "Harry relax. Everything's fine."
"Sorry." He mumbled, a blush slowly forming over his cheeks.
"Come over here." Draco said motioning towards the side of the bed.
Harry walked over and slowly eased his weight down on one side of the bed.
"So you think you're almost done considering about us?" Draco asked.
Harry smile. "Yeah, I think I am."
"Can I know the conclusion?"
"After you tell me what happened today." Harry said with a worried smile.
"Always the noble Gryffindor." Draco mumbled before continuing. "It was nothing serious. I went into Knockturn Alley to get a procedure to make this tonic that was created by a really famous Healer in America. The tonic heals colds and flu's; a muggle sickness as I'm sure you would know. But instead of the muggle antibiotics, this tonic works almost instantly; but only if it is made correctly. When I purchased the procedure I already thought it was a bit odd that the list said to add Dragon Blood with Bat wings but I didn't question it because...well the inventor is incredibly intelligent."
Harry's Auror techniques sparked.
"Who sold you the procedure? Did you know him? Recognize him?"
"Not really. He didn't look familiar to me. But I can only assume he's from a pure-blood family. Anyone who owns a shop in Knockturn Alley is pure-blood." Draco said with a thoughtful expression.
"Do you think he could have intentionally given you a rigged procedure?" Harry asked.
"I...don't think so. I mean I wasn't the most liked person a few years ago but no-one's tried to kill me so far." Draco replied slowly.
"Perhaps he wasn't trying to kill you though." Harry said looking down, his brow creased in frustration.
"What do you mean?" Draco asked.
"Never mind, this is all speculation anyway. Maybe we could go back to that place after you're healed?" Harry said.
"Sure." Draco said with a smile. "Now...don't think you can get away with it. What conclusion have you come to about us?"
"I know this sounds odd, but when I saw you all bruised and burnt on your bedroom floor everything sort of just clicked." Harry said trying very hard not to blush.
"So after all this time...it took me getting blown across the floor for you to like me?" Draco said.
"It's not like that...I mean, I know I was attracted to you before. But I didn't know how deep until just now." Harry replied.
"So what does this mean?" Draco asked.
"Well I'm not too sure. But I know I really...like you." Harry finished lamely.
To Harry's surprise Draco laughed.
"I love how indecisive you are." He paused before speaking again. "But I'm glad you've come to a conclusion. So are we together now?"
"I suppose we are." Harry said awkwardly. He probably should've asked Draco nicer to be his boyfriend but he didn't think he could utter those words right now.
"Ok...well it's late and you and I should get some rest." Draco said with a smile.
Harry nodded before getting up off the bed to approach his own suite.
"If we're together now, don't I get a good night kiss?" Draco said softly with a smirk.
Harry blushed bright red. Yet he leaned down and carefully brushed his lips over Draco's, being careful not to hurt him.
When he pulled back, the good half of Draco's face was flushed and his eyes were shut.
"Good night Harry." Draco said, his eyes still shut but his mouth was curved in small smile.
"Good night Draco." Harry replied as he slowly walked out of the room, glancing back at Draco one last time before he left back to his own suite.
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Something was hitting Harry on the head. It was like a vibrating buzz.
He cracked his eye open to see his wand floating above him. With a groan he grabbed it and elegantly flicked the vibrating off.
'To get up at 7:30 is much too early for work.' Harry thought as he rolled out of the bed and into the bathroom for his morning routine.
He had just finished doing up one of Draco's emerald green shirts and was about to throw on his robe when there was a small knock on his door.
"Draco?" Harry asked as he swung the door open.
Standing on the other side was Draco in a silver robe and looking down slightly.
"Morning Harry. I woke up an hour earlier to clean up my potions room and I firecalled my department. I'm off work for a week so that my face heals up." He said indicating to the burn.
"Oh alright. Have the bruises and bones healed up?" Harry asked. He wanted to envelope Draco in a hug but he felt really awkward.
"Yeah the only bruises left are on my torso and all my bones have healed up, now it's just waiting for this." He said with a remorseful tone whilst indicating again to the burn. "Maybe I could cover it up with some glamour." Draco continued in a thoughtful tone, now looking up.
That did it for Harry.
He reached out and softly pulled Draco in an embrace.
"Stop feeling so self-conscious. You still look as great as ever." Harry said as pressed a soft kiss to the platinum blonde hair.
Draco pulled slightly back and smiled up at him.
"Such a sap." He said whilst friendly hitting Harry on the arm.
"You love my sappy noble Gryffindor ways. Don't deny!" Harry replied with a laugh as he reached for his robe and swung it on.
Draco simply rolled his eyes as he led Harry down the stairs to the dining room.
Diddy served up another delicious traditional breakfast.
"Well I'm going to stay here and get ahead on paperwork for the next couple of days until my face heals." Draco said as he carefully ate his eggs.
"That sounds like the safest option." Harry replied. "Although, do you mind if I go visit that potions place?" He asked.
"I suppose. But don't act all investigative. I don't want to arouse any suspicion because we're not even sure of anything right now." Draco said thoughtfully.
Harry nodded. "I'll just go and see the place is all. Nothing serious. And besides, I've got a feeling about this."
"What does the feeling tell you?" Draco asked looking over at him.
"Well this is the same feeling I get whenever I think about what the hell is going on with Ginny. And the same feeling I always had back in Hogwarts. And every time I got this feeling; it has never turned out well." Harry said with a bitter tone.
Draco nodded in understanding.
"It's called Custelle Potions. And it's two shops down from Burgin & Borkes." Draco replied.
"Custelle? Is that the surname of the owner?" Harry instantly said.
"No. Custelle stands for Majestic in Latin1. I know for a fact that there are no pure-blood families in Knockturn Alley under the name of Custelle." Draco said with conviction.
"Alright then. I'll use my lunch break to head over there today." Harry replied as he finished up his breakfast.
They shared a tender kiss with Draco's hands entwined in Harry's hair and Harry's hands on Draco's waist. When they pulled away they were both flushed.
"I'll see you tonight. Be safe." Harry said softly.
They walked to the front door together. As Harry was about to leave Draco grabbed his hand and swung him around again before planting a delicate kiss on his cheek.
Harry smiled at the gesture before exiting.
As he walked to the apparition point in the alleyway he realized that the intimacy in his relationship with Draco hadn't taken a new level.
With a huge broad smile he disappeared on the spot.
Ron's perspective as Harry leaves their cottage – rewind back time to last night!
"Ron! What's going on?" Hermione said her voice slightly muffled in the tight hug Ron had her in.
He quickly let her go and smiled.
"Follow me." He replied.
She followed him down the hallway, past the kitchen, past the dining room and into the living room.
Hermione gasped at the sight. There were candles EVERYWHERE; floating and resting! The only room left was a small pathway so that they could walk into the centre. Ron took her hand and led her in.
"Did I miss something Ron?" She said as she gazed around from the centre of the living room.
"No..." He replied somewhat mysteriously.
It was then she realized the floor was covered in red rose petals. It was very generic; but that was why she loved it.
"Ron what's going?" She asked with a curious smile on her face.
He simply flicked his wand and "Only you" by Joshua Radin started.
Hermione gasped. This was one of her favourite love songs. Ron gently placed both his hands on her waist as she looped her hands around his neck.
'Looking from the window above, it's like a story of love. Can you hear me?'
Together they swayed to the music as Hermione stared at Ron in awe.
'Came back only yesterday, who went further away. Want you near me.'
Ron stared back intently at Hermione. He was determined for this evening to go perfectly.
'All I needed was the love you gave; all I needed for another day. And all I ever knew, only you.'
He leaned in slightly and gently placed a soft kiss on Hermione's lips.
They stayed staring at each other and swaying to the music as the song came to a finish.
"Ron wh-
"Do you feel like dessert Hermione?" He asked, interrupting her.
"Uh...Sure, yeah that sounds really great." She replied; a little taken back by his sudden romantic behaviour.
"Wonderful. I booked us a table at Rendez-Vous2. I know it's your favourite." Ron said with a small smile.
Hermione gasped. "Really?! Oh Ron! Oh but I'm not dressed." She said with a gushing smile on her face.
"It's ok. The reservation's not for another hour. So we can start getting ready now." He replied.
She nodded in agreement. They slowly walked out back into the hallway. Before she headed into the bedroom she looked at Ron and said "I don't really know what's going on. But whatever it is...I love it." She leant forward and pressed a soft kiss to his lips before heading into the bathroom that was adjoined with their bedroom to shower up.
After Hermione had slipped on a short, yet casual blood red dress she made her way over to her vanity. Placing herself down, she quickly lay down foundation, mascara, a bit of blush and a tiny bit of face glimmer as a final touch. With a quick casting of tempus, she realized she had about 15 minutes left. Perfect.
She slipped on some red strappy low heels, walked over to the full-length mirror and fluffed her hair.
"Herm?" Ron voice carried through the closed bedroom door.
"Yep! I'm just coming now." She yelled back. On the way to the door she quickly grabbed her black and red purse.
Ron swung open the door and froze slightly.
"You look...beautiful." He said.
"Thanks. And you look quite dashing yourself to!" she replied, eyeing his casual black suit.
He blushed slightly before offering her his arm.
She smiled broadly at the gesture. Taking his arm, they both shut their eyes and disappeared with dual pops.
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Gracefully they landed right outside the restaurant. Ron took Hermione's hand and gently led her in.
"Reservations sir?"
"Yes. Under Weasley." Ron replied.
The waiter nodded as he ticked off his name and then led them both to a centre table.
"I know this sounds slightly strange, but I already ordered you the chocolate cheesecake with a strawberry frappe." Ron said as they sat down.
"Oh...no that's alright. They ARE my favourite. Are you having anything?" Hermione replied with a startled, yet pleased expression.
"Of course. You know me Herm! I ordered the large tiramisu". Ron said, his face breaking out in a huge smile.
To say that Ron was nervous was an understatement. Sure he was acting all romantic and suave, though deep down he was so nervous he was having trouble keeping his hands still. He subtly cast a cooling charm on himself as he felt he began to sweat from the nervousness.
Just then the food arrived and Hermione's eyes lit up as she saw the chocolate cheesecake. Ron loved that look. The look where Hermione's eyes would brighten up when she saw something she liked. It was the same look she used when he would do something romantic for her. Like tonight.
The next couple of minutes were filled with soft smiles, subtle glances and enjoying deserts. When they were both done Ron reached out and took her hand.
Hermione smiled at the gesture.
"Herm. You know we were best friends for 7 yrs and we still are?" Ron asked.
"Yes, of course I know." Hermione replied slightly confused.
"And when I asked you to move in with me; that was one of the best days of my life." Ron continued.
"Oh Ron...it was one of the best day of my life to." She said, her eyes shining.
"You know I love you Herm. You're the most important person to me." Ron said softly as he got up from his chair.
Hermione followed him, her eyes filled with curiosity.
"I don't know what I'd do without you." He said as began to slowly get down on one knee.
Hermione's eyes widened with suspicious realization. Her hand slowly lifted up to her mouth when Ron pulled out a black small box.
"I want to be at your side for the rest of my life. I want to go through bad and good times with you. I want to grow old with you and still be just as in love as we are today. You're my world and my everything. Will you marry me Hermione Granger and make me the happiest man on earth?" Ron said softly as he opened the black box to reveal a silver ring with a sapphire sitting on the top surrounded by small diamonds.
Tears filled Hermione's eyes as she clamped a hand over her mouth in shock.
Neither of them noticed that the entire restaurant had gone quiet. Not a single person was moving. Every eye was on Hermione.
And after a few seconds...
"YES! YES!!! OH RON!! YES YES!" she screamed, leaping forward and embracing him in a fierce hug.
The force of her leaping onto him nearly knocked him over. He grabbed her around the middle as he felt her tears falling down his shoulder. As they slowly pulled away, Ron pulled the ring out of the box and gently slid it on her finger.
The restaurant erupted.
Ron stood up and fiercely kissed Hermione; his arms wrapped around her waist and lifting her off the ground.
Ron felt like the happiest man on earth.
Back to the present time as Harry enters the Ministry!
Harry strode past the Healing department, the Misuse Use of Muggle Artefacts Department and the huge golden statue. He flooed into the Auror department to see Ron stuffing a treacle tart down his mouth.
"Do you want me to give you two some privacy?" Harry said with a smirk.
"Seriously these are so good." Ron said ignoring what Harry had said. "You gotta try some. Kingsley bought them from some bakery his wife works at."
"I'll be right. I had breakfast already." Harry replied shaking his head at Ron's antics.
"Listen mate, after the arena today I got something to tell you. Huge news." Ron said with a broad smile.
'That's right! Ron was going to propose to Hermione last night.' Harry thought.
"Ah yeah, tell me how it went! I assume it's good news though. "Harry replied.
"EXCELLENT news!" Ron answered as they strode down the hallway together.
Harry was considering telling Ron what had happened with Draco but Kingsley beat him to it.
"Potter! Weasley! Malfoy won't be in today, apparently a potion went wrong and he's off for a week. So we've got another Healer in." Kingsley shouted from his office door.
"Alright!" They both yelled back.
"Malfoy's hurt? What happened?" Ron said turning to Harry.
"A procedure he got; we think was wrong and it blew up his potions room. Half his face is burnt. It happened just as I came back from having lunch with you guys." Harry said, summing it up. "I'm going to head over to the potions shop at lunch break to see the owner."
"Woah...sounds big. Want me to come?" Ron asked.
"No it's okay, It'll only take a few minutes." Harry said, trying not to offend Ron.
Ron went silent as they checked the roster for today's arena. Harry was paired with Ron again. Today's match was a 2 vs. 2 team. Ron and Harry on one team and Seamus and Gracelynne on the other. Gracelynne was an ex-Beauxbatons student who fought for the light during the 2nd war.
"You know, I'm ok with you and Draco being so chummy." Ron finally said.
Harry looked at him with surprise. "Um...thanks Ron. It means a lot."
"It still doesn't mean I get why you're still living with him." He added with a strange look.
"I know I know." Harry said as he laughed with surprised happiness.
"Let's do this. Seamus ain't got anything on us." Ron said with a smug look as they entered the arena. Harry only rolled his eyes in response.
Flitwick stood in one corner briefing Seamus and Gracelynne. As Harry and Ron approached the other two dispersed.
"Potter. Weasley." Flitwick said as a greeting. They nodded in return.
"Alright. 2 vs. 2 today. The scenery is a mansion. You know the rules about which spells are allowed and which are not. Now I told this to the others as well. Don't be afraid to be physical. You'd be surprised how physical Auror's can get simply because they can't get to their wand in time or they've been relieved of it. It's not like the enemy won't do physical bodily damage." Flitwick said firmly.
"Yes sir." They replied simultaneously.
"Alright. Step in whenever you're ready." Flitwick squeaked.
Harry and Ron stripped of their cloaks, nodded at each other and took off.
The first thing that Harry noticed was that this simulation mansion had some great resemblances to the Malfoy Mansion. It made him rather uncomfortable. But he didn't have time to think about that because Seamus was charging up behind him casting spells left, right and centre.
Harry made a dive to the right; hitting the right side of his body against a cabinet.
"Stupefy!" yelled Seamus.
Harry had landed rather awkwardly and didn't have time to protect himself, so he grabbed the first thing he saw and threw it towards the spell.
The vase he had picked up blew up into a hundred pieces and flew in different directions.
He heard Seamus howl in pain. Taking this advantage, he pushed himself off the floor and tackled Seamus to the ground before casting Expelliarmus followed by Incarcerous.
Not wasting a second Harry got up and continued running down the hallway; looking left and right for any sign of the others.
"Harry watch out!!"
Harry tripped due to someone casting the Tripping Jinx and landed face first into the carpet. He rolled over just in time to avoid Densaugeo3 by Gracelynne.
"FURNUNCULUS!" Ron bellowed at Gracelynne as he dragged Harry to the side of the hallway.
"Thanks mate." Harry said as he got up.
"No probl-
"MOVE!" Harry said, pushing Ron aside and casting Protego around himself as an Impedimenta Jinx came blasting towards them.
Harry and Ron spun around and bolted down the rest of the hallway before taking a left. In front of them was a large staircase heading upstairs.
Ron made to go up it whilst Harry hid underneath the staircase.
He spotted Seamus and Gracelynne coming down the hallway.
"Incendio!" Harry yelled. The fire jetted from the end of his wand and landed in front of Gracelynne; effectively stopping her from coming any further.
Seamus, however had made it to the front of the staircase and was dodging all of Ron's spells who was standing in the middle of the staircase.
"Glisseo4!" Seamus bellowed. Ron yelped as the staircase flattened and he found himself sliding his way to the bottom where Seamus had cast Incendio.
Harry bolted from underneath the staircase and quickly cast Aguamenti at the fire and thus allowing Ron to gently hit the bottom without burning on fire.
Ron was about to get up but only got tackled by Seamus to the ground again. They started a fist fight which Harry unsuccessfully broke up as he was trying to avoid several curses from Gracelynne.
Seamus had now gotten off a bloody Ron and made for Harry who was getting slightly desperate to get away from Gracelynne. The hallway was narrow and since she was blasting curse after curse, it didn't give him enough time to cast anything; instead had him running from side to side.
Harry; in an act of pure desperation grabbed a solid looking statue and threw it with all his might at Gracelynne. He didn't see what happened because Ron was suddenly in front of him casting spells at Seamus. Seamus wasn't able to dodge the Stinging Hex; he dropped his wand and fell on the floor in pain.
Harry spun around only to be punched in the nose. Gracelynne stood there with a look of rage. It was filled with so much hatred it made Harry step back.
Ron had stunned Seamus and was physically tying him up with rope he found in a closet so that Finite couldn't do anything.
Harry was about to say a spell when he froze in shock at the word that was uttered from Gracelynne.
"CRUCIO!"
He just managed to dive out of the way; landing on Ron and Seamus.
Harry, Ron and Seamus were all still staring in shock as the simulation came to an abrupt halt.
"GRACELYNNE!" a voice bellowed.
They all snapped back to attention and Ron quickly untied Seamus.
They looked up to see Kingsley striding towards the.
"Gracelynne you know the rules. What is the meaning of this?"
But she didn't seem to register what had happened. Instead she charged at Harry.
"Stupefy!"
"Expelliarmus!" Harry and Ron yelled together.
She fell to the ground, her eyes staring at the ceiling. The look of rage on her face frozen in place.
"Bloody hell." Ron said as all 4 of them approached her.
"What is going on?" Kingsley said, fury evident in his voice.
"After she punched me in the face she looked really angry....like she hated me." Harry said softly.
Flitwick strode in at that moment.
"Who cast the Unforgivable? The alarms in my office have been sounding off." He said coming to a halt at the body of Gracelynne. "Oh dear."
"That's strange. I've known Gracelynne ever since we started Auror training. We're always partners and not once has she ever cast an Unforgivable and not once has she ever been physical either." Seamus said looking devastated.
They moved her to the adjoining Healing Room and lay her down on a bed still stunned. No-one said anything for a while until Kinglsey made to the fire place and flooed somebody.
"Malfoy? I know we wouldn't call you in but this is sort of desperate."
A few minutes later Draco appeared in some casual black slacks and a silver suit shirt. Despite his half-burnt face his hair still looked immaculate.
"Woah Malfoy." Ron and Seamus said at the same time.
Harry saw the look of self-consciousness flash across Draco's face; but in an instant it had gone to be replaced by a small smirk.
"Yes. The stories are true, half my face is burnt." He replied before facing Kingsley. "What's happened?"
"Gracelynne cast Crucio in the simulation. Potter said she had a look of pure hatred before she cast it and Finnegan says it isn't like her to do it. Is she under Imperius or something?" Kingsley said motioning towards the still stunned body.
Draco looked thoughtful for a second before he spoke. "Let me see her wand please."
Flitwick handed over her wand. Draco muttered for a few seconds, turning the wand in his hand.
"Well nothing's wrong with her wand." He said. He whipped out his own wand and cast some colourful spells around Gracelynne.
The next few minutes were tense.
After that, Draco stepped back with an impassive look upon his face.
"Well!!??" Seamus burst out.
"She's under the Imperius." Draco replied. There was a collective gasp before he continued. "Was she predominantly after Mr. Potter in the simulation?"
"Yeah now that you mention it, she barely attacked me." Ron said, his eyes wide.
"It seems someone has cast Imperius upon her to harm Mr. Potter as much as possible. Why I cannot say." Draco said looking professional. Although Harry could see the worry in his eyes.
"What?! Who wants to hurt Harry?" Ron said, his face growing red.
"Ron calm down." Harry said softly. "Maybe we could wake her up and ask her a few questions?" he suggested.
Kingsley and Flitwick looked at Draco for approval.
Draco nodded.
Kingsley cast Incarcerous in case she tried to do anything and Flitwick cast Ennervate.
The minute her eyes fluttered open, they looked around and landed on Harry with a glare.
"Gracelynne, why do you intend to harm Mr. Potter?" Kingsley said with an air of authority.
"He's an interfering sod!" she spat.
Draco raised his wand and muttered a small spell.
Her eyes went wide for a second before she slumped on the bed.
"Malfoy what did you do?!" Seamus yelled running up to her body and grabbing her hand.
Everyone else in the room exchanged glances.
"Relax Finnegan....Ennervate!" Draco said.
This time when her eyes fluttered open they looked scared.
"I didn't mean it, I swear! Harry I'm so sorry." She immediately said sitting up.
There was a collective sigh of relief from everyone in the room.
"It's fine. Don't worry. But what happened? Healer Malfoy said you were under the Imperius." Harry said.
"Oh...oh. Well the last thing I really remember is when I was Custelle Potions up in Knockturn Alley getting a tonic for my father." She said with a frown.
The minute the words Custelle Potions was uttered from her lips, Draco and Harry looked at each other.
"We should send someone down there." Kingsley said.
"I'll go. I was going to go down there today anyway to check up on something." Harry said.
"Well you're going to need back-up. Weasley go with him." Kingsley replied. "Be careful you two. This isn't exactly a dangerous mission of sorts, but this is relatively serious. Be. Careful. Look out for each other." He said nodding to the both of them.
Harry, Ron and Draco exited the adjoining Healing Room.
"That's strange isn't it? Draco goes and gets a procedure from there and his cauldron blows up. Next thing Gracelynne goes in for a tonic and she comes out Imperiused." Harry said thoughtfully.
"Well if it's really that serious, did you also notice that those two things you just said nearly ended up in you two getting hurt? And it did on Malfoy's case." Ron said.
"We don't know in my case if it really intended to hurt me." Draco said.
"We can't risk it. It's nearly lunch anyway, let's go check it out now." Harry said, making his way out the arena door with Ron and Draco following.
"I'm coming." Draco said.
"No." Harry instantly replied. "You're already hurt. You should be resting right now, you could get hurt more."
"This is about me, I should come to." Draco argued.
"Maybe Harry's right Malfoy. You could get hurt more." Ron said.
"Hey Ron go ahead to the floo point, I'll be a second." Harry randomly said.
Ron looked weirdly at Harry before nodding and making his way down the hallway. The instant he was out of ear-shot Harry pulled Draco aside into a more private area.
"Draco please don't come, I can't bear to see you more hurt. I feel bad enough I couldn't' save you from the explosion earlier." Harry said, wrapping his arms around Draco's waist.
"But I'm already here Harry, I might as well come." Draco replied, his hands resting on Harry's shoulders.
"I know, but you're meant to be at home. Please don't Draco...for me?" Harry added.
Draco sighed. "Alright. But just because it's you." He said.
Harry leant down and gently pressed his lips to Draco's. Draco tried to deepen it but Harry pulled away.
"Not here, we're in work Drake." Harry laughed.
"Drake?"
"It just slipped out...do you mind?" Harry asked.
"No, it's ok. I like it." He said with a smile.
With another quick peck to the lips Harry pulled away with a small sigh. "I have to go, Ron is waiting."
"I'll see you at home...now go!" Draco said with a small smile as he watched Harry disappear down the hallway.
Harry quickly hurried to the floo point to see Ron waiting.
"What took so long?"
"Sorry, just had to convince him not to come." Harry hastily replied, trying to hide his blush.
They stepped into the floo one after the other and disappeared with a green flash.
Landing back in the foyer of the Ministry they strode out of the building together. When they arrived outside, they shut their eyes and the next second they disappeared with twin pops.
They both landed at the apparition point in Diagon Alley. Together they strode towards Knockturn Alley. It was only when they were nearing Borgin & Burkes did they pull out their wands and slow their walking down.
Trying to look casual they approached the potions shop. It was very glamorous looking compared to the other shops. 'Custelle Potions' was painted in gold above the browning door.
Ron tried the door, but it wouldn't budge. It was then they noticed a "Closed" sign, which was odd since the lights were still on inside and the front desk looked like someone had still been there.
"That's odd." Harry whispered.
"Let's look around." Ron said as he slowly strode around the building.
The kept the eyes open for any strange behaviour, but when they got back to the front of the shop after walking around it twice, it seemed nothing was too unusual.
"The owner probably went for lunch." Ron said logically.
"Well we should come back tomorrow or sometime soon." Harry replied in agreement.
"Agreed." Ron said as they strode away from the shop.
Nothing like this had happened ever since Harry's defeat of Voldermort. For something like this to come up was serious. Harry imagined it might cause a stir within the Auror department since most of the Aurors were Aurors in training and not fully qualified.
"You realize this means we might have an actual case here." Harry said as they re-entered Diagon Alley.
"Yeah I do. That kind of scares me. We haven't even finished our training yet." Ron replied.
"Well you and I have had a life-time of danger. And we got through it all with barely any training. We can do this to." Harry said with conviction.
"Well said mate." Ron replied.
They arrived back at the apparition point and together they both disappeared with two loud cracks.
Back at Knockturn Alley a figure appeared out of a hidden alcove. It's mouth curved into a dirty smirk before approaching Custelle Potions and changing the "Closed" sign to an "Open" one.
THERE! Done! Oh my, that took so long! As you can see it's a long chapter and I was a little too ambitious. There was a whole bunch of things I wanted to put in here, but I'll have to place it in Chapter 13. I'm sorry for the wait, I hope it was worth it and you all enjoy it =D! Please please review!
Footnotes;-
I found that Custelle meant Majestic in Latin over the internet. If someone knows that that's wrong, please let me know!
Rendez-vous; I found is a restaurant in England that does deserts. Since I don't live in England it was a little difficult. So once again, I hope my sources are accurate.
Densaugeo – this spell was used in Goblet of Fire when Draco casts a spell at Harry and ends up hitting Hermione instead making her teeth grow!
Review replies:-
Airborn-Love : hahah well I hope what I wrote wasn't too dramatic! I officially have a whole bunch of chapters planned out with a relatively intricate plot. Did you like the romance between Harry and Draco? I know it's not fiery or anything right now, but I'm getting there! I hope you like! =D. And yes! Did you like the proposal sequence?
Miyako Suou – Thank you for confirming that =). How are you liking the rest of my story?
Please please review everybody =). It only takes a few seconds! 3.
