Dislaimer once again relevant here!

A/N: A little bit of a delay posting this - reality got the better of me over the last week or so. Hope no patience was lost! Look forward to your reviews - it is the 10th chapter after all. :p

Chapter 10

Hermione was in her office when Daria rushed in, a look of distress on her face.

"Sorry to interrupt, but the Minister has requested a meeting." Hermione looked up at her surprised. What on earth would warrant such an impromptu meeting? Usually, she was the one requesting them.

"Do you know what it's about? I don't know if I should prepare something." Hermione was baffled.

"No, the memo just said, 'The Director of Muggle Relations is requested to present herself to the Minister's office at 2pm'," she read. The clock on her desk clicked over to 1:58.

"Shit!"

"I know! I am going to kill Percy!" Daria reassured looking apologetic. Hermione grabbed her official robes and rushed out, putting them on as she reached the closing cages of the nearby lifts.

"Hold the lift please!" she called out. She saw a hand intercept the closing doors, as it held on to the right side. Hermione rushed in, relieved to save even a smidgen of time.

"Thanks!" she breathed as she tried to compose herself.

"Anytime, Granger." She looked up into the silver orbs of her permanent distraction.

"Malfoy!" Murphy had made reappearance, it seemed. He merely shrugged, a half hearted attempt at concealing his dissatisfaction at exercising common courtesy, only to have it blow up in his face at the presence of the one person that they each wanted to avoid. She exercised control not to stare, for her mind was being disloyal and flashed the recent memory of the kitchen incident. She closed her eyes to mentally readjust.

"Uhm, what brings you to the Ministry?"

"Meeting," he really was a man of few words when he chose to be. She scoffed in annoyance.

"Might I ask with whom might this meeting be?" She inquired, her tone reflecting her distaste at the current circumstances.

"You of course, and the Minister." He eyed her reaction. Her breathing stopped: she was drowning.

"Then I can safely assume what it will be about?"

"Don't hold your breath," his pun did not go unnoticed, "I received the message this morning. I expected you would know what it was about, but it seems the upper echelons of this fine establishment lack communication at the best of times. I feel reassured knowing that the private sector is not doomed to eternal damnation." Malfoy being a prick certainly did not go unnoticed by Hermione. She just glared at him silently, turning to face the front of the lift, fuming for the very reason so eloquently put by Mr Private Sector.

They cage doors rattled open signalling their arrival. Hermione exited first, dodging a school of inter-office memos rushing past her. Pretending as if Malfoy was not in fact walking close behind, she hurried to the uniquely hexagonal office of the Minister. She walked past Percy's desk, purposely snubbing him and knocked on the door before entering.

"Ah, Miss Granger, glad you could make it on such short notice." He was smiling warmly, for he knew that no one missed a meeting at the Minister's request. Hermione just feigned acquiescence with a gracious smile, reserved only to please the Minister.

"Mister Malfoy, welcome, welcome," he proceeded to usher them both to the large wing chairs flanking the elaborate fireplace that occupied one sixth of the walls. Hermione sat, eyes glued to the carved marble figures that shaped the full height of the hearth. The unique colouring of the pink and green marble always drew in her attention. Malfoy sat next to her and the Minister opposite, facing them both.

"And, how are you both today?" The hearth erupted with bright blue flames, re-adjusting the room temperature to a relaxed quality.

"Very well, thankyou Minister," Malfoy had conveniently found his ability to be polite and assertive. He sat with his fingers locked as his elbows leaned on the arm rests.

"Well thankyou." Hermione's response just did not compare.

"Good, good," It was a habit of his to repeat single words. "As you are aware Miss Granger, I regularly meet with the Muggle Prime Minister, now that he is used to the idea, and we have proceeded to establish a working relationship. Just yesterday we convened and I happened to mention your magazine, which he seemed very pleased about and would like to receive a copy." he smiled eagerly at the developments. "Although, we would of course require each issue to go through our security check so that it will be charmed for his eyes only," he added as an afterthought, furrowing his brow at the novel realisation.

"I am very happy to hear that Minister," Hermione was silently patting herself on the back while inwardly sulking at the ancillary issue of the Ministry's budget that had caused her much grief.

"It is excellent, yes, yes." He reflected. "Now, I understand, Mr Malfoy has shown interest in your magazine?"

She wanted to say, 'if you mean monetary interest, then certainly' but bit her tongue in lieu of her company. She could not be rash in front of the Minister, how unprofessional of her. Especially since Malfoy seemed to be setting the bar on what would otherwise be her scaling system. She nodded, and proceeded to add, "I believe Mr Malfoy has been considering a new avenue for advertising," keeping it vague. Let Mr Malfoy do the dirty work he excels in.

"So I've heard. Mr Dixon kindly debriefed me on your interests in seeking advertising space in our publications?"

"Indeed, Minister. It is something we have been pushing for. It would be a means to get around the private funding policy the Ministry follows through an avenue that promotes the Ministry's interests. Of course, the position we would be in by securing this opportunity would be most advantageous too, I will not deny that." He smiled so self- assured by his pitch that the Minister could only chuckle at his finishing remark. Hermione just seemed stunned by it all, steeling a glance over at Malfoy, trying desperately to hide her awe but he just winked at her as the Minister moved to his desk, still chuckling. 'Unbelievable', she thought. Malfoy amusing the Minister? The earth had unhinged from its axis and was toppling over on its side like a spinning top calling it quits.

Hermione uncrossed her legs and re-crossed them the opposite way, clearly a sign of her nervousness, as she smoothed her hand over her skirt and sat up straighter, all the while knowing that Malfoy was eyeing her. Shuffling away at his desk the Minister returned with a file, placing it on the coffee table before them.

"Very well put Mr Malfoy. While the policy for private funding can be cumbersome it serves a purpose to avoid the corruption that once existed. However, as you know, your excellent proposal will mean that Miss Granger can continue to publish a fine journal on a monthly basis, and perhaps allow her department to engage in other activities too."

Hermione knew what was happening and was defenceless to stop it. The battle on this round was clearly going to be won by Mr Private Sector. She sighed quietly, hunching her shoulders in defeat, and leaned back into the armchair. May as well get comfortable, she decided.

The Minister adjusted the sleaves of his royal purple robes, which kept falling over his hands as he opened the file, and pulled out two parchments. "Now, we have already prepared the contract, Mr Malfoy, if you would both like to read over it. You do have time to negotiate of course so don't feel rushed into signing it today." He passed them a copy each. "Basically, the Ministry agrees to grant Malfoy Corporation up to 20 pages of advertising space per month in Understanding Muggles for the fee assigned, and allows for your sponsorship of numerous events at the discretion of Hermione Granger. I hope you will find it satisfactory," his eyes twinkled with anticipation.

Hermione's ears perked up at the last part. She had discretion over sponsorship of events? Now that certainly was an interesting inclusion. She picked up the parchment and started to read over the terms.

"Minister, if I may be allowed to take this away and send it to you tomorrow? That would allow me to read over it. Should we request any amendments I will notify your legal department beforehand." Malfoy requested.

"Of course, of course," the Minister nodded, smiling knowingly at the prudence being exercised by Malfoy. Hermione didn't mind though, she could properly sift through the contents later tonight when her mind seemed to function more inquisitively. The Minister rose from his seat, signalling the end of the meeting. "An owl will be sufficient; you and Miss Granger can discuss any further arrangements. I anticipate that we will have Malfoy Corporation involved in the Ministry in a more transparent manner and I find this whole arrangement very pleasing," he extended his hand to shake Malfoy's, who obliged. Hermione was perhaps the only one to notice Malfoy's slight frown at the Minister's last comment. He had a habit of cleverly referring to the past and reserved no room for comment from the other party. She rejoiced in the fact that Malfoy could not defend the Malfoy name on that point. The Minister gently took Hermione's hand, giving it a squeeze of reassurance that this whole arrangement would work in her favour. Her nerves relaxed at the gesture and she felt at ease by the subtle hint that the Minister had considered her personal interests regardless of the outcome.

Hermione quietly followed behind Malfoy as they left the office. "Percy," she acknowledged curtly as she walked passed his desk. They made their way over to the lifts, her eyes focused on his shiny black leather shoes as they hit the floor in a hypnotic rhythm. He was the first to break the silence.

"Funny how things work out Granger," he reflected, "Saved by the Minister's decisions. You get away with keeping your pride, I get what I want, and to top it off the Minister is happy and you're magazine is saved. Everybody wins," his chuckle contained a hint of disbelief mixed with his usual derisive undertone.

"Well, now that everybody is happy, do you mind moving so I can get into the lift," Hermione replied as the cage doors welcomed them. She pushed past him and marched in.

"Ah, Granger, always with the attitude," he taunted, shaking his finger at her and clicking his tongue as if he were reprimanding a child for misbehaving. Amongst other things, spending time with Malfoy and that annoying Carla in a professional setting was going to be the killjoy of her career. She sighed loudly. His eyes bore into hers, amused at her childish reaction.

"It's OK Granger, I'm sure Dixon can baby sit you at our meetings."

This only served to rile her and he knew it. "Malfoy, lets not jump too far ahead, I have no intention of meeting with you or your employees. Ever heard of owls, or the floo?"

Malfoy pulled out the parchment and scanned through it, his eyes resting near the bottom. "Here we go, Clause 10.1, 'The Director of Muggle Relations shall meet with an assigned employee from Malfoy Corporation bi-monthly to ensure timely publication of Understanding Muggles at the satisfaction of both parties, and discuss any other matters pertaining to this agreement.' He smirked at her with satisfaction.

"That can be amended Malfoy."

"Clause 10.2, 'Clause 10.1 cannot be removed from this agreement without the approval of the Minister or his representative upon the request of any party.' Seems the Minister is cleverer than we anticipated. How does he do it?" Malfoy was chuckling at his own joke and Hermione could not help but smile slightly at the Minister's precision.

"Right Malfoy. You seem to have all the answers today." She resigned herself to take the road of least resistance; he had an answer for everything.

"My, my, Granger, giving up on me already?" He closed the distance between them and Hermione felt their shoulders touch. She turned her head, raising her eyebrows to signal her dislike of their close proximity. After all, it only served to remind her things she had been trying to pretend had never happened.

"Well, I am sick of being on the defensive with you." She simple put to him. He smirked at her in response, remaining unmoved. "Secure a fortnightly meeting time with my secretary and we'll go from there," she finished matter-of-factly. The lift rattled to a stop signalling her floor and she stepped forward awaiting the cage doors to release her.

A few people were waiting to enter the lift as she began to step out. The next moment, Malfoy had pulled her back in, pressed to button for the doors to shut announcing, "Sorry, wrong floor," smiling apologetically to those waiting as the doors re-shut. He pushed Hermione against the back wall of the lift, blocking her movement. Confused by the suddenness of the situation and by this new found compromising position, Hermione was in no mood for exercising restraint.

"What the hell do you think you're doing?" she snapped, as she shoved her hands against his solid chest with impatience. The fine blend of his suit did not go unnoticed by her palms as she struggled against his hold.

"You weren't going to leave me on that note, Granger. You should be a little more accommodating to your new working partner." His face was serious yet he appeared conflicted. There was a hint of uncertainty present that Hermione was not accustomed to sensing from him.

"Malfoy, I don't think man handling me in a lift is a good start to our working relationship, wouldn't you say?" she pointed. He released her instantly, a frown crossing over his face. They stood facing each other silently.

"Uhm, I'm not big on confined spaces, do you mind if we get out of the lift?" Hermione spoke hesitantly, too quietly even, like she needed to ask his permission.

"Aren't you going to ask me why I came to your house Granger?" he replied, his voice mimicking her almost whisper, drawing out a huskiness that contradicted his imposing demeanour. So, that was what was on his mind, she realised.

"Do you want me to?" She eyed him curiously, worryingly.

"Since when do you hesitate to ask?"

Hermione pondered for a moment. "Since I've decided it doesn't matter." There was no chance in hell she wanted to enter into a discussion about his reaction to her self proclamation. This seemed to stop him dead in his tracks, clearing the uncertainty that had suddenly clouded his mind. He pulled back, stepping away from her. Her gaze drifted to his lips and she hoped he didn't notice. The nature of their environment did not serve to halt her flashback of his lips on hers. She quickly looked away, over his shoulder, anywhere but his face. This was a defining moment, she conceded, if nothing was said that would be the end of it. Suddenly, Hermione was not so sure of anything.

Malfoy turned away, and moved to press the lift doors to open. Hermione rushed to stop him, her hand grabbing his, using his finger to press the button to a floor 10 levels above them; she needed more time. Perplexity and an amused anticipation spread across his face as the lift started to move. If she was going to be rash, now was her time. His hand still in her grasp, she shoved him against the lift wall.

"Careful Granger," he mocked, "One might get the impression you're up to something sinister."

"Shut-up Malfoy," she responded as she leaned in, unbeknownst to her scolding conscience, tilting her head to let her lips meet his, her body submitting to the feeling of his perfect lips and slight stubble. His body hitched in surprise and she felt his lips form a smile around her mouth as he responded to her initiations. She bit on his bottom lip gently, allowing her tongue to tease over it as he welcomed her demands. His hands moved down to her lower back, resting on her hips as she moved hers around his neck, allowing her fingers to grab hold of the ends of his hair as they locked together around him. Time seemed to stop, despite the upward motion of the lift which only served to heighten their state of mind, as their heavy breathing served to limit the oxygen in the confined space. They continued, locked in their embrace, their attention on the heated movements of their mouths moving in unison, pleasuring their senses, as a new found charge surrounded them.

The lift stopped signalling their arrival to the floor of a fruitless destination. They broke apart at the sound of the chime. There was no way she was going back down in a lift with him now. Removing her hands from the intimate position around his neck, her eyes still on his, as she registered a new found emotion apparent in his gaze that she was certain was sparked by this exchange.

"I guess we're even now. There is nothing further to discuss other than business," she stated, more for her benefit really. Still leaning against the lift wall, Malfoy merely smirked back at her, readjusting his suit jacket, silence being his modus operandi on this occasion.

She needed to remove herself from his presence. "I'll get the next lift," she said, stepping out, turning to face him as the doors shut. She might have reached an accord on one side of her conscience that she and Malfoy were vis-à-vis on their intimate initiations, serving to mark the end of it, but her realistic half was seriously worried about just how complicated things between them had become. She resigned to taking the stairs, in fear of running in to him.

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