About a Boy and a Girl
Chapter Four
During those first few minutes that the two had declared themselves friends, they talked about the most random things and discovered that maybe there is a way to this whole friendship business. They found that they had more things in common than they originally thought.
When the main dish was served they lessened the chat but did not completely end it. "Oh, no," Hermione said quietly, failing to answer Draco's question then. She was looking at the plate containing the chili garlic shrimp with a side of mixed vegetables.
Draco looked at her. "You don't like spicy food?" he asked.
She looked up from the shrimp to look at him. "I'm allergic to shrimp."
"Well, we can't have you eating that." He summoned Misty into the room and asked her to prepare something else without any shrimp in it. He paused for a moment and consulted Hermione. "Any more things you're allergic to?"
She shook her head. He returned talking to the house elf who retrieved the platters once she had received her instructions. "I'm sorry about that," Hermione said when the elf had gone.
"No need to apologize. It's not your fault you swell up because of shrimp-based food. Meanwhile, why don't we go out to the garden while the food's prepared? We have about half an hour before we eat." Draco helped her out of her seat then carried Erin out of the high chair. They exited through a back door leading to the garden.
The garden was much lovelier when one actually sees it. The flowers of varied colors swayed together with the wind and there was the fresh scent of grass and earth. Although the sun was high up, the wind kept everything cool.
They strolled the garden on a stone pathway. They walked in silence, except for Erin's occasional giggles as he marveled at the wonderful colors of the flowers, before Hermione decided to break it.
"Who takes care of Erin when you're not around?" she asked, looking at the stones she was stepping on.
"Mother does, I suppose. At least that's what she tells me. But I don't trust her sincerely with Erin here. She's too busy tending to Father's needs to notice anybody else who might need her attention. That really bothered me when I had to leave for school, not sure whether he's being taken cared of properly or not."
"So you raised him?" Hermione was amazed by how responsible a big brother he was to Erin.
"I guess so. I taught him almost everything he knows. Whenever I'm at home, I spend most of the time with him, filling in for what his parents lacked, and that was almost everything. He seldom sees mother and father, I'm told by the house elves. That's the main reason I questioned Mother." To Hermione, Draco was a different person now. She had never seen this side of Draco and never realized it even existed.
He wasn't the conceited Slytherin Prince now; today he was just a teenager who feels he is burdened by a responsibility that wasn't even supposed to be his.
"Don't get me wrong here, though. I'm not complaining. Not at all. I love being able to spend time with my younger brother but sometimes, I feel I'm missing out on my life," he admitted.
"Do you ever go out nowadays?" she asked, looking at him with concern, something she never did before. Hermione empathized with him. She rather knew what that felt like during the time she had to spend hours and hours by her father's side and her social life was at a standstill.
"No. Not so much. I can't really trust anyone with him," replied Draco.
"What if you really had to leave? What do you do then?" It was clear that all Hermione wanted to do was offer help and she was probing her mind for a possible solution.
"I do the only thing I can do. I have to take him with me. That's the only way I'd feel assured. But people don't like it when your attention is diverted from them by a one-year old. I have to keep a constant eye on him to make sure he doesn't get into trouble and people find that displeasing. They don't understand how difficult things are for me," said Draco. From the looks of it, he was really troubled by his situation.
Erin was getting uneasy in his arms and was wiggling his way out. Draco put him down while Hermione held Erin's hand, slowing her walk so that Erin could keep pace.
They stopped inside the gazebo and went to the railing with the clear view of the small pond. Hermione watched the water lilies float on the water's surface as she debated whether or not she should push her idea forward and present it to Draco as a possible option.
And her decision was this:
Both of them were quietly staring at the pond when Hermione abruptly spoke. "I have a proposition." She picked up Erin and precariously seated him on the railing. There was a tense moment for Draco as he watched but loosened up when he saw Hermione had a firm hold on him. He leaned back on the railing and faced her.
"Go on," he said.
"Why don't you let me watch Erin sometimes? I don't have much to do this summer so that gives me a lot of free time," she started and then looked at Draco. When it seemed he wasn't about to say anything, she continued, "But to make it rather impersonal so that it wouldn't be treated as a favor, I would consider myself as a hired babysitter."
"Hired? So that means I'd have to pay you," he finally said.
Until now, she hadn't thought about money matters. Then she thought about her family's current financial status. She did need the money but her initial intention was just to help him. It would have been different if she were actually applying for the job. "Not necessarily."
"But it would be more impersonal to me if I pay you for your work," he commented. He cast a glance at Erin and then at Hermione. "Do you think your idea will work?"
"Yes, I do," she answered firmly.
"Then you're hired. You'll start tomorrow," said Draco, sounding all business-like.
"Really?" Hermione wasn't entirely certain her idea would be accepted that easily. Did Draco really trust her that much? They had just become 'friends' that day and he was entrusting her with his most precious little brother.
"You should know that your skepticism gets annoying." He was his old stuck-up self again. "Haven't I said it already? You start tomorrow. I have to meet with some... people." The way he said the last word sparked Hermione's curiosity but thought it best, from experience, not to ask. "So tomorrow. Is 30 Galleons enough?"
"Thirty Galleons for a week? That's more than enough," said Hermione. She was confused when he looked at her like she said something ridiculous.
"A week? A day, you mean. This child is definitely no ordinary child. And I will make sure that the person who handles him will get paid well but taking into consideration, of course, that she does her duty well," he said, the tone of his voice never changed. Talking to him now was more similar to a business transaction.
"Don't worry. You will not be disappointed with me," she said in the same manner as possible, making sure he feels that she is serious about this.
He nodded curtly. "I'm glad to hear that."
After arranging that she come to the manor the next day at 9:00 am, they went back inside to have lunch. There was no problem with the grilled salmon now. They ate solemnly and for a moment, they appeared like a young family sharing a meal.
Following lunch, they stayed in the living room, continuing to converse while Erin played with his enchanted toy cars. They enjoyed each other's company so much that Hermione ended up staying well into the afternoon.
By the time she looked at her watch, it was already 4:30 pm. They were now on the floor playing with Erin. As she slowly got up, Draco followed her with his eyes and followed suit.
"I need to go. I've extended my stay long enough," she said.
And for some unknown reason at the moment, Draco felt sad that Hermione would be leaving. "Wouldn't you like to stay for dinner?"
Hermione smiled. "I appreciate the offer but I've stayed long enough." She was now walking towards the doors. Draco and Erin went with her. "Thank you. Really. I actually had a very great day. So I'll be seeing you tomorrow."
Yes, tomorrow. I'm seeing her tomorrow. And he felt lighter knowing that. "I'll be seeing you." He opened the door and the three of them went outside.
Taking slow steps backwards towards the gate, she said, "Thank you, Draco."
Draco nodded toward her. "You take care, Hermione."
She was at the gate now. She was looking a little lower than Draco. She waved then called out, "Bye, Erin!" And Draco was pretty sure she looked one final time at him before exiting the manor completely.
The older and younger of the Malfoy children watched as Hermione left. We'd be seeing her again. Soon. And that brought a small smile and, oddly, reassurance to Draco.
The next day, Hermione arrived at the manor fifteen minutes early. She was excited that she would be spending a day with the adorable and loveable Erin.
She waited patiently in the living room. Erin came racing down from a hallway and upon noticing her, hurriedly went to her and gave her his biggest hug. She hoisted him up to sit him on her lap. Erin was flapping his arms wildly, showing how happy he was for seeing her again.
Draco came upon this scene in the living room. "Great. You're here," he said, fixing his sleeve. "I'll be off in a few."
"Aren't you going to give me any rules and regulations? Do's and don'ts? A list of things?" she asked simultaneously.
Draco scoffed. "Rules and regulations? This isn't some sort of facility. Do whatever you think will make him happy. I think I can trust you with that. And please keep him out of harm."
"Any allergies? Favorite food? Favorite toy?" she continued the list of questions. She was keen on not messing this up.
"He's allergic to nuts. As to food, he'll eat about anything." He ruffled Erin's hair. "He is a growing boy. Favorite toy? He doesn't seem to have one. But he does have a favorite book." Draco used a summoning charm to retrieve it from Erin's room. He handed it to Hermione.
Hermione stared at him in disbelief. "Kids' Wizard Almanac? Isn't this a bit too advanced for someone his age. Then immediately after asking the question, a thought hit her. The kid is advanced for his age.
"He's no ordinary kid, I'll tell you. Very smart," Draco said proudly. "I've taught him how to read some words. And he is fascinated by the pictures."
Hermione turned to Erin. "Looks like you might grow smarter than I am." Erin laughed and the two teens joined in.
Now to Draco, she ventured, "May I take him out?"
He considered this for a brief moment before replying, "I suppose it will be alright. Safety and fun is important. But if you will be going out, I want you to take this with you." He reached inside his pocket and took out a silver… cellphone? "It will make me breathe easier, knowing it is you I'm talking to."
She turned it over a few times in her hand. This phone was the latest model on display and it costs hundreds of pounds. As she marveled at the object in her hand, she was unaware that Draco had taken another item from his pocket. This time, it was a metallic green cellphone.
"You bought two?" she said upon seeing it.
"How else would I be able to contact that? I've expected that you would not like to be cooped up in a place like this so I took some measures. You should always have that with you. I'll be checking up on the both of you every once in a while. The person had my number programmed on quick dial." He pointed to the number 1 on the phone Hermione was holding.
The laughter that came after his last statement baffled him. "It's called speed dial."
"Well, whatever. You and your silly Muggle contraptions." He stuck the phone back to his pocket. "Never give your number or mine to anyone." She nodded. "And some money to spend for the day." She nodded again as she took the money and put it in a secure place in her bag. Then he looked at his watch. "Right then, I'd best be off."
The three of them left the manor and stopped just outside of the gate. Draco approached them and kissed the top of Erin's head. Erin looked up at Draco. "See you, bugger." Hermione had never seen such a sweet gesture from Draco and never thought him quite capable of one. Perhaps this was something normal to both of them but out-of-the-ordinary for anyone else witnessing it.
Then Draco faced Hermione who was looking at him expectantly. "Later, Hermione." Draco surprised himself. The use of her first name sounded almost natural, like he had been doing it for years.
Hermione also shared his reaction but prevented it from showing on her facial expression. She just returned it with an equally natural sounding, "Later, Draco." He nodded at her.
With a loud crack, he vanished before them. Hermione looked at Erin. "Let's not waste any time." And with that, they Apparated to Diagon Alley.
It was a bright day and being that it was summer, Diagon Alley was packed with people going about their work or simply having a nice day out. The sight of people going about excited Erin very much and Hermione thought Draco must not bring him to such public places. Well, he's with Hermione today and she was determined to make this day the toddler's most enjoyable one yet.
Their first stop was Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour. Hermione, Harry and Ron had been frequenters of the shop during the summer and they have made a good friend out of Mr. Fortescue.
When Hermione entered, she was warmly welcomed by the store owner. "Aah, Hermione. I haven't seen you in a while," Mr. Fortescue said, leaving his post behind the counter.
"I couldn't really find the time recently, Uncle Florean," she said.
And, of course, old Mr. Fortescue didn't fail to notice the child in Hermione's arms. He looked at Erin and stroked his chin with a finger. "And who is this little tyke?"
"He's a friend's brother. I'm watching him for... uh... him. His name's Erin," she replied. She didn't want him to hear the response Erin once gave her.
"Does Erin want an ice cream sundae?" Uncle Florean was face-to-face with Erin and was grinning widely. Erin gave a slow nod. "Well then, I better get to work." He went back behind the counter and set himself to preparing the order.
"No nuts, Uncle Florean!" Hermione called out to him as they wove their way around the tables and chairs to have a seat at the back of the ice cream shop.
"And what will you be having, Hermione, dear?" he now asked.
"Just a caramel sundae." She sat Erin on the high chair she had summoned. While they waited for their ice cream, Hermione heard a peculiar tune. It sounded like the opening theme to Star Wars. Only then did she realize the sound was emanating from her bag. She hurriedly opened it and answered the call.
"It's about time," said the voice.
"Sorry. Hey, I had no idea you were a Star Wars fan." A giggle followed.
"There's still a lot you don't know about me. Anyway, where are you right now?" he asked.
"We're in Diagon Alley about to enjoy a couple of sundaes." Their order arrived. Draco heard a faint "Thank you" coming from the other line.
"That's good." Then he suddenly sounded in a hurry. "I'll call you later." Hermione wasn't even able to say anything else before he hung up.
"Your brother is still an enigma to me," she told Erin though she was sure he had no idea what she meant.
They took to eating their delectable treats. Seeing Erin's ice cream-covered face brought amusement to Hermione. She grabbed a napkin and wiped off the mess. After finishing, they went to the cashier to make the payment.
Mr. Fortescue refused to accept Hermione's money. He wore his gentle smile and said, "Keep your money. It's just a little something for my new friend here and also a welcoming gift. Just promise you'll drop by again."
"Will do, Uncle. Say 'Thank you,' Erin," she urged him.
In his small voice, he said slowly, "Thank you."
Mr. Fortescue shook Erin's little hand. "You're very welcome, young man."
"We're going now. Say 'Goodbye.'"
Waving his hand at Uncle Florean, he said a high-pitched "G-bye!"
After making a few stops at the toy shop to make some purchases, Hermione took Erin back to the park where they first met. They went to the part where there was a big playground. When Hermione put him down near the slide, he didn't leave her to go play on the swings or the sandbox. It turns out he wasn't used to socializing with other kids. This was probably the closest he has gone to kids about his age. Hermione decided to help him overcome his shyness.
They walked over to the sandbox where a redheaded little girl was playing alone. She looked to be about two and a half years old. Erin sat across her in the sand. Hermione crouched behind him. "Hi! What's your name?" she asked the little girl.
"My name is April." Then she pointed to Erin who was playing with the sand in front of him. "Who's he?"
"Him? His name is Erin. Would you play with him? It's his first time here," she requested. April moved toward Erin and took his hand.
After she said 'Hi' and introduced herself, she said, "Come on. I'll introduce you to my friends." She started to pull him in the direction of the other children. As he worked his tiny legs to where he was being pulled, he looked back longingly at Hermione who remained crouched by the sandbox. She gave him an encouraging smile and sat on a bench where she was sure Erin would easily spot her.
With April's help, Erin was meeting the other children. Then he started to play with them, screaming as they ran around the playground. The smile never left her face as she followed Erin with her eyes. There was sheer joy on his face. And it was there as she watched that she found herself wishing she had a younger sibling.
She remembered asking her mother once when she was young why she didn't have a brother or sister like her other friends did. At that time, her mother only explained that she wasn't capable of doing that anymore.
It was only when she got old enough that she learned the full story. Her mother had two other pregnancies after she was born. Unfortunately, both resulted into a miscarriage. Consultation with a doctor told them that her mother suffered from uterine cervical incompetence, premature and painless dilation of the cervix leading to spontaneous or, quite possibly, habitual abortion. Her parents were devastated. They couldn't give Hermione a playmate.
"You're a miracle to us. We're lucky to have you," her mother often told her when she was little and she did not know its meaning was quite literal.
And that's what made her fond of little kids. She loved being around her young cousins, nieces and nephews. She felt like a big sister to them and they were the little siblings she never had.
Hermione hated to end Erin's enjoyment but it was almost lunchtime. She beckoned to him, "Come on, Erin. It's time to say goodbye to your friends." Erin looked at her and pouted.
Hesitantly, he made rounds around the playground and said goodbyes to his newfound friends. That done, he ran towards Hermione. She took his small hand in hers. Erin kept looking back. "You'll see them again. Don't worry," she reassured him. Erin started hopping between steps.
The pair had arrived in Muggle London. Erin had grown tired of walking and asked Hermione to carry him. When they entered the Granger family's flat, the radio was blaring and the aroma of butter reached their nostrils.
Mrs. Granger had the afternoon shift and she was available to prepare lunch. "Hey, Mom," Hermione greeted as she entered the small kitchen. Her mother didn't look up from her cooking as she returned the greeting.
Hermione took a seat and sat Erin on her lap. "Do you mind if my friend here stayed for lunch?"
This time, Mrs. Granger looked around. "Who?" Her eyes widened at the sight of the toddler on Hermione's lap. She approached them and picked up Erin. "Hermione, could you attend to that for a while?" Hermione stood up and started stirring the buttered broccoli and baby corn. "Is this the kid you're babysitting?"
"Yes. He's Erin. That's Draco Malfoy's brother so be careful with him," she cautioned.
"I will. I'm good at this. I never dropped you when you were a baby... unlike your Father," her mother commented then cooed over Erin.
"What's this I hear about me?" Hermione's father entered the kitchen. He smelled of soap and Hermione assumed he had just taken a bath. "And who's this little guy?"
"Dear, meet Erin Malfoy. Hermione's his babysitter. He'll be staying with us for lunch," her mother replied. Hermione was busy placing the vegetables on a plate.
Mr. Granger just nodded. "So when's lunch going to be served?"
"The roast beef is not ready yet. Give it a half hour." She turned to Hermione. "Here you go. Go take him to the living or something," she said, giving him back to Hermione.
Hermione left the kitchen for the living room. Sitting of the sofa, Hermione took out the Kids' Wizard Almanac and began reading it to him. He listened intently and learned the words fast. Fifteen minutes into studying and looking at pictures, the now familiar Star Wars theme began playing again.
"Where are you right now?" Draco asked. He was no longer in a hurry. Instead, he sounded winded and somewhat irritated.
"We're at my flat. Are you alright?" she asked now.
"Could I go there?" He didn't answer her question but there was something odd in Draco's voice that vaguely hinted to the answer to her question.
"Uh. Yeah."
"Okay. I'll be there in a moment." He hung up.
This is the longest chapter yet.
I am overflowing with ideas for the upcoming chapters and I'm excited to write it. But I want to hear what you thing about this. So don't be shy. Leave a review.