A/N: Thank you for all the comments and likes and follows! You guys are awesome.

Trigger Warning: Underage drug use, egregious use of movie quotes, and Draco trying to be suave.

29 October 1995 – Hogwarts

Draco quickly gathered his books and parchment, placing them into his school bag as the other Slytherins shuffled out of another useless DADA lesson. They had spent their time tasked with writing an essay regarding the dangers of using the Tickling Charm on someone with a breathing affliction.

Of course, Draco had the wonderful experience of being on the receiving end of Potter's use of Rictusempra back in second year. Not wanting to be reminded of nearly wetting himself from laughter in front of all the other students, Draco had quickly written out a few lines of bullshite and turned in his work, then spent the rest of the lesson covertly reading another book about wards telling Pansy his father wanted him to learn.

Finally alone, Draco watched as Umbridge disappeared into her office, which he followed, gently knocking on the still-open door.

"Mr Malfoy?" questioned Umbridge as she brought out her pink teacup. "What are you doing here?" It was evident the constipated witch was miffed at him for continually refusing her offers to lead the Inquisitorial Bitch Squad. And so, Draco put on his most charming grin as he took a few cautious steps into the room.

"I was wondering if I could have a moment of your time, Professor Umbridge," Draco said politely.

"Of course," she replied stiffly, gesturing for him to take a seat. "Is everything alright?" she asked with a curious brow.

Draco sat down, taking his bag off his shoulder and sighing. "Oh, yes. I've just been reconsidering your multiple and very persuasive offers for me to join the I.B.S."

"I.B.S.?" said Umbridge confusedly.

"Oh, right. You see – I thought IS was a bit – strange, you know? I mean – what is IS anyway? Sounds odd. So, of course, I've taken to calling your group the I.B.S. Inquisitorial Brilliance Squad – obviously for how brilliant you and its members are," he said with a smile.

Umbridge sat back in her seat with a thoughtful expression. "Oh, that is quite good," she said as she wrote it down.

"Anyway, I know I told you I was a bit overwhelmed with lessons and Quidditch and such. But seeing how much good the I.B.S. has done for Hogwarts, I've decided to listen to a witch I greatly admire and finally join."

Umbridge gave a creepy smile, clearly thinking Draco was talking about her. "Well, this is quite unexpected," she said in surprise.

"I felt it was my moral obligation to join such a cause. Always let your conscience be your guide– as I always say. I couldn't let myself sit back and not contribute. Which is why I quit the Slytherin House team to offer my services without adding more to my workload. I want to ensure I am in peak condition to effectively lead the I.B.S. into greatness."

"That must have been a difficult decision for you, given you were such a great Seeker, Mr Malfoy."

Draco waved his hand dismissively. "By the time I was ten, playing Quidditch was like eating vegetables or taking out the bins. So, when I was fourteen, I started to refuse to even play. Can you believe that? A pure-blood Slytherin refusing to play Quidditch with even his father?"

"Oh – I didn't realise you'd felt that way about the sport," she said with a furrowed brow. "But even so, does your father support your decision to quit the Quidditch team? I'd hate to cause any father/son strife," said Umbridge, looking genuinely concerned - probably fearing what Lucius would do to her.

"My father likes to think he has control over my life – shaping me to be the proper Malfoy heir and all. But – I believe there is no fate but what we make ourselves.That and he's already over it, given he loves me oh so very much," he finished sweetly. "He always tells me that great wizards are not born great – they grow great. He'll be pleased to see me taking the initiative to help improve Hogwarts since Dumbledore is such a massive failure."

At that, Umbridge smiled, but then she sighed and shook her head.

"As inspiring as that is, I'm afraid you're a few days too late, Mr Malfoy. I will gladly let you join the I.S. –" Draco raised a brow. "I.B.S.–" she corrected with a smile. "But I've already given the leadership position to Miss Greengrass." Draco said nothing and simply gave his most Lucius-like glare. "But I suppose she can be persuaded to take on the role of your assistant," the witch quickly corrected.

"Very good," nodded Draco.

Draco watched as Professor Umbridge opened a drawer and pulled out a badge. Then she stood and came around the desk, gesturing for him to stand as well. "You are an amazing young wizard, Mr Malfoy," she said as she pinned the badge to his school robes.

After taking a few steps back and inspecting the badge, Draco looked up, giving a shit-eating grin. "You know, sometimes I amaze even myself."

D: Dragon Boy to Cat Girl

D: It's done

H: ?

D: I am now officially a spy

D: And leading the IBS

H: Are you serious?

D: Sirius Black

H: :D

D: Just try to keep the DA

D: From Jinxing me too much

H: Do or do not. There is no try

D: Just DO keep the DA

D: From Jixing me too much

H: I'll try :)

D: :P

31 October 1995

Draco adjusted his bow tie for the tenth time as he walked alongside Pansy to the Great Hall. The Hogwarts staff decided that a Halloween celebration for the fifth years and older was just the thing to get the student's spirits up with all the changes Umbitch had brought to Hogwarts. But, of course, the music was going to be terrible, and the opposite gender wasn't allowed within eight inches of each other – so no one was really looking forward to the boring dance.

"I don't see why you couldn't have at least worn a costume and not dressed like you're going to some fancy gala," said Pansy as she charmed a little horn on her forehead, claiming to be a unicorn. Or – a sexy unicorn – as she'd clarified.

"This dance is a joke, Pansy. And Umbridge will keel over once she sees how you're dressed," he added with an eye roll.

"Like she'd punish me," huffed Pansy. "We're on the I.B.S. – we can get away with anything," she said with a grin.

"Right," he laughed. "What's Marline going as?" he asked, not really caring but knowing Pansy would appreciate him at least pretending like he gave a fuck.

"A sexy hippogriff," she said with a cheeky grin.

"Lovely."

Draco entered the Great Hall only for Pansy to immediately ditch him and make a beeline for her girlfriend. Thanks to Umbridge's idiocy – she never thought to apply the eight-inch rule to the same sex, given she was oblivious to nearly half of the students' predilections. Draco scanned the room and caught sight of Theo and Orla, causing him to smile.

Theo had dressed as – of course – the Terminator. But, upon seeing Orla, Draco furrowed his brow when he recognised that the witch was dressed like Princess Leia from Star Wars. Figuring she'd probably known of the films, given she was Muggle-born, Draco dismissed the odd feeling in his stomach. Not only did the witch fucking look like Narcissa, but she also smoked weed and now seemed to like his father's favourite film. Or at least, what he imagined was his father's favourite film, given it was the only movie he'd mentioned in any of his journal entries.

Of course, most of the students were dressed in traditional wizarding Halloween costumes. Still, a decent number of students were bold enough to blatantly wear Muggle-based attire, given that Umbridge was clearly unaware of anything Muggle. Draco walked around the room and stopped at a table with drinks where a few Prefects were serving the other students.

"Name's Malfoy, Draco Malfoy," he said as he leaned against the table, not even bothering to look at the witch tasked with serving the drinks.

"Well, excuse me," huffed the witch playfully.

"Pumpkin juice, shaken, not stirred," he added, still not turning his head.

"Why, of course, sir," said Hermione as she ladled his drink into a goblet. "I suppose the suit works on both levels. A pompous pure-blood too above it all to wear a costume. Or a secret Muggle-born spy dressed as James Bond for Halloween," she laughed as she set the drink on the table and slid it to him.

"Pansy was upset that I didn't wear a costume," he chuckled. "But at least I didn't wear my school robes like some people." Draco turned slightly to grab the drink.

"Well, Jabba the Pink thought it best to differentiate the help from those attending," she said annoyedly. "I was going to dress up like a Centaur. Umbridge hates them," she sighed.

Draco smirked into his drink and then scrunched his nose as the band — composed of several ancient-looking wizards and witches — began to play terrible music. "Who's strangling the cat?" he asked, causing Hermione to laugh, eliciting his own smile.

"You're hovering, Draco. Move along," Hermione said out of the side of her mouth. Draco could see Daphne walking over, dressed as a bitch. More specifically, she charmed little dog ears into her hair – but still.

Draco took his drink and walked away to continue wandering around until his cup was empty. Then he decided he'd had enough of the boring fest and went outside the Great Hall to the courtyard where the terrible music could still be heard. Taking a seat on his favourite bench, Draco pulled out his fob to look at the picture of his mother and simply sat until his arse was frozen.

"Fancy meeting you here." Draco smiled and turned to see Hermione standing with her arms crossed, shivering slightly. "How can you stand sitting out here?"

"I just don't think about it," he said as he stood and walked over to her, putting his hands on the sides of her arms and rubbing up and down. "Better?" he asked.

"Better," she smiled.

They both stood awkwardly for a few more beats until the music changed into something mildly enjoyable.

"We could dance – you know – movement – to keep warm," suggested Draco with a shrug. Although internally, he was panicking, hoping she wouldn't laugh or, Merlin forbid fucking slap him again. Although he'd never admit it at the time, it fucking hurt even hours later.

"I mean – it's the only logical thing to do," said Hermione with a shrug of her own. She smiled and stepped towards him as he placed his hands on her waist. Hermione followed suit by placing her hands on his shoulders. He watched as she looked up into the night sky, smiling. "I think I found you," she said, breath visible in the evening air.

Draco looked up and quickly spotted the constellation of his namesake and smiled. Then he looked down, studying Hermione's face and calm demeanour as her eyes sparkled in the twilight.

"Hermione," he started. "I –"

"Granger –" came an unfamiliar voice causing Hermione to back up and Draco to nearly draw his wand in rage. "Breaks over. You're needed at the drink table," huffed the seventh year Hufflepuff Prefect.

"I'm coming," she sighed, looking at Draco. "I have to go," she said sadly. "Message me?"

"Of course," he smiled and waved her off. Draco watched as she went back inside. "Fuck," he rasped in annoyance. "Fucking fuck," he cursed as he kicked the ground and slumped back onto the bench, placing his head in his hands and elbows on his knees.

"Hey, Draco."

Draco's head shot up and then relaxed when he saw Theo's girlfriend walking over. But then he frowned when he saw her holding out another joint. "Come on – it's Halloween. Let's celebrate," she said, smirking.

"Fuck, fine," he huffed as she sat down and took a hit.

Draco took the second joint, trying to imitate what she'd shown him. "Shite," he coughed, still not used to smoking. "Just don't judge me on what I say this time," he chuckled, vaguely aware he'd told the witch he wanted to snog Hermione until he came in his fucking trousers. Which was the truth but — yikes.

"This is a judgment-free bench, my friend," Orla said before taking a long drag.

"Thank Salazar," he chuckled.

One Hour Later

"I'm really sorry, Orla," said Draco with a wince.

"No worries," she grimaced as she vanished the vomit from her lap. "Maybe next time, lean the other way," she laughed. "Probably should head back. I told Theo I'd meet him before curfew to – talk," she giggled.

"Oh, gross. I don't want to hear about my best mate snogging in cupboards," he whinged as Orla helped him to his feet. Thankfully, Draco was only buzzed this time and knew he could walk to his dorm alone.

"Who says that's what we're going to do?" she asked with a raised brow, only for Draco to raise his own. "Okay, fuck. You're right," she laughed. "I'll see you later, Draco."

"See you," he said as he waved the witch off and returned to his dorm. Minutes later, lying on his four-poster, Draco smiled when he felt the familiar burn in his pocket.

H: I should drop out of Hogwarts

H: And get a job as a bartender

H: Jabba said I had exceptional

H: Skill in passing out beverages

H: (-_-)

D: She's just jealous

D: Because she's skilled

D: In nothing

H: :-}

D: Where are you now?

H: I'm in the common room

H: Listening to Harry

H: Complain about Jabba

D: Can't blame the git

H: Draco…

D: Sorry

D: Force of habit ;D

H: I'm knackered. Going to bed.

D: Mr Shanks is too. He's

D: Already asleep on me

D: But I have to pee

D: And I don't want to move him

H: The struggle :'(

D: Yes it's a burden you've

D: Thrust upon me

H: How ever will you cope?

D: Good question Cat Girl

H: I suppose you'll just have to wait

H: Or take him with you

D: I'll wait thank you much

D: You still there?

H: My eyes won't stay open

H: Thank you for the dance Draco

D: :D

H: Night Dragon Boy :-]

D: Night Cat Girl :–)

2 November 1995

H: I'm so sorry

D: Not your fault

D: Even though you said

D: You'd stop the DA from

D: Jinxing me :(

H: Is it bad?

D: I'd rather have eaten your spew chocolate

H: :(

D: (T_T)

H: They will grow back

D: Theo said I looked better

D: Without eyebrows anyway

H: Theo also changed his

H: Middle name to Terminator

D: Fair point

H: In other news

H: Dobby found a place

H: For the DA to meet

D: Let me guess

D: A broom cupboard?

H: Room of Requirement

H: Appears when you need

H: And takes form of what you need

D: So if I was desperate for a shit

D: It would become a loo?

H: Gross

H: But yes

H: Thought we could use it for TWAT

D: Fun :)

6 November 1995

H: So I've discovered that thinking

H: "I need a room for TWAT"

H: Was not the best way to

H: Seek out the ROR

D: Oh my :-0

H: Exactly :-0

10 November 1995

D: How are the Dumb Arses?

H: (-_-)

D: Sorry

D: IBS lingo ;)

H: :P

H: Good

H: Neville finally cast

H: A successful Expelliarmus

H: Luna nearly got hit in the eye

H: Theo's girlfriend joined

H: She's been very helpful

H: Already knows the spells

D: I had a few interesting

D: Encounters with her

H: I didn't realise you met

D: She found me brooding and got me high

D: So I don't remember much

D: But I like her

H: You got high?

D: Five times now :-D

D: I figured I'd suss out Theo's witch

D: I might have thrown up on her too

D: So you two should be able to bond

D: Over my weak stomach :-)

D: Hello?

D: Cat girl?

D: Are you mad at me?

D: Hermione?

D: I'm really sorry

D: ?

H: Sorry Jabba the Pink passed by

H: And I was laughing to myself in

H: The corridor and she

H: Started lecturing me

D: Fuck

D: Someone dares lecture

D: Hermione Granger?

D: :-0

H: I know right?

H: I'll get her back ;)

H: And I'm not mad at you :)

H: Orla is really nice. I like her too

H: Theo got high with her and said

H: He played catch the Snitch

H: Without a Snitch

H: In only his pants

D: !

H: Orla took a picture. I'll bring it

H: To TWAT

D: Please do X-D

D: Also FYI

D: IBS will be stalking a few of

D: The DA members

D: Crabbe and Goyle

D: Are to follow Potter

D: And Weasley

D: Pansy is supposed to follow

D: You but she's

D: Miffed because she

D: Thinks her girlfriend is cheating

D: On her so unfortunately

D: I'll be stalking you

H: The horror :–)

H: But Marline isn't cheating

D: ?

H: She joined the DA

D: !

H: I know right!

H: Pansy might be more miffed

H: If she knew the truth

D: Wild

15 November 1995

"This is unacceptable," said Umbridge indignantly as the I.B.S. crowded into her small office.

"Yes, unacceptable," said Draco, shaking his head as he leaned against her desk.

"I've had you all following those delinquents for days now, and we are no closer to locating their group," she huffed.

"Yeah," said Draco in mock anger. "This is unacceptable."

"Yes," said Umbridge, looking at him perplexed. "As I've already said, it's unacceptable."

"Yes, unaccept–"

"Draco, dear," said Umbridge raising her hand. "I truly appreciate your – tenacity – but please."

"Just eager to please, professor," he said sweetly, causing Daphne to roll her eyes and Pansy to snort a quick laugh before stifling her amusement when Umbridge glared at her.

"We must find their meeting location and dissolve this – group – before things get out of hand," Umbridge said with a firm nod. "They seem smarter than we initially thought," she grumbled.

"Yes, yes," sighed Draco, now standing straight. "Your eyes can deceive you; don't trust them," he said, pointing at each I.B.S. member. "We must be ever vigilant in our quest to dismantle these delinquents. In my experience, there's no such thing as luck. We must use all of our resources and pull together to defeat them."

"You're our leader, Draco," scoffed Daphne. "Maybe it's not us that's the problem."

"I find your lack of faith disturbing," said Draco harshly, causing her to flinch.

"There are more of them than us," started Crabbe. "It's impossible to follow them all."

"Never tell me the odds," said Draco as he began to circle around the group - wand drawn - slapping it into his palm. "If we all work together, I'm confident we will succeed."

17 November 1995

D: Dragon Boy to Cat Girl

D: I just led the IBS

D: To the abandoned toilets

D: Myrtle came out and said

D: The bathroom was exclusively

D: For students to meet for TWAT

D: Jabba is going to

D: have another decree about

D: Amorous meetups

H: Merlin (x_x)

20 November 1995

H: Dragon Boy

D: Yes Cat Girl

H: Terminator and Blaise officially

H: Joined the DA

D: How'd that go?

H: Surprisingly well

H: Theo was accepted given

H: He's my brother and

H: Orla's boyfriend

H: Ron is wary of Blaise

D: Not a surprise

D: Should I harass Blaise

D: To help his case?

H: You just want to harass him

D: 0:)

21 November 1995

D: How's combat training

D: Going?

H: Good

H: I stunned Ron

D: Damn I wish I was there

H: I wanted to talk

H: To you about that

D: ?

H: You need combat training too

D: Fuck yes. I'm in

D: Am I joining the DA?

D: I'm going to shock all

D: The Gryffindors

D: :D

H: No

D: Oh

H: Too risky to expose you

H: As our spy

D: True

D: So how will I train?

H: You and I are going

H: To start meeting for SECS

D: Granger O_O

H: Secret Education of Combat Skills

D: Of course :-I

H: Pervert :o)

D: :-}

H: I'll tutor you in all the

H: Things the DA learns

D: Correction. Lecture

H: I'll LECTURE you in all the

H: Things the DA learns

D: Better :)

H: =D

D: And where will we be

D: Meeting for SECS?

D: :-}

H: ROR numpty

D: Can't wait :P

Draco took his seat in Double Potions next to Pansy, seeing as he was supposed to hate Theo now. Of course, Theo simply switched with Pansy to sit by Blaise. Sitting behind Hermione, Draco was tempted to take out the Galleon and message her during the lesson but knew it would be a shite show if Snape caught him. And so, he was stuck staring at the back of her head and daydreaming about running his hands through her hair as he finally got a fucking chance to confess his feelings.

Thankfully, Pansy was preoccupied with her own issues being sullen regarding Marline's whereabouts every other night. So, he took the lead as they brewed Draught of Peace while he mused about his friendship with Hermione.

It was hard to gauge how the silly little witch felt towards him. Their messaging definitely seemed like she was flirting – Merlin knows he certainly was. But she'd so casually invited him to meet for SECS, knowing exactly what she was playing at. So, Draco figured she really only saw him as a friend if she was so flippantly throwing sex jokes around with him — right?

Or maybe Hermione did have some kind of feelings towards him and was dropping hints?

Looking over, he could see Hermione and Neville happily chatting about their brew. Deflating, Draco had to accept Hermione was simply being cheeky as she had been in naming TWAT and not harbouring anything other than friendship for him. She'd also yet to tell him that she finally fucking worked through her — albeit legitimate – hurt over his treatment towards her in the past. He still cringed about it daily, listening to how the other members of I.B.S. talked about Hermione and other Muggle-borns.

"Draco, what the fuck?" came Pansy's voice.

"What?" he said in confusion.

"The fucking brew is overflowing!" she yelled.

"Oh, shite," he cursed, realising he hadn't been paying attention to how much syrup of hellebore he was adding. Thankfully they got everything sorted before Snape could pry himself away from Potter and Weasley, who were struggling with their own cauldron spilling over.

"Are you alright?" asked Pansy, looking at him in concern.

"Oh, yeah – tired."

"Me too," she sighed.

Draco gave a sympathetic look to his friend, wishing he could tell her that her girlfriend wasn't cheating but simply going behind her back and defying everything Pansy believed in. Maybe it's a good thing he can't say anything…

Finishing up the brew, Draco began to think about TWAT and how they still weren't any closer to plotting a successful assassination. Maybe he could owl Narcissa and get more information about the wards? The witch certainly seemed keen on killing the bastard anyway. His only concern was that Narcissa would try to dissuade him for fear of him getting hurt or thrown in Azkaban. But it's not like she was his mother, so – she can't tell him what to do.

23 November 1995

D: Dragon Boy to Cat Girl

D: IBS in route

H: I'll let Harry know

D: Door is gone you're in the clear

H: Thanks

D: Still on for SECS tonight?

H: Half seven ROR :)

D: :)

Draco made his way to the seventh floor and passed by the tapestry of Barnabas the Barmy three times while thinking he needed a room specifically for wizarding combat training as Hermione told him. Given what happened when she'd first tried to seek out the room for TWAT, he could only imagine what thinking I need a space for SECS might conjure.

Just like all the times he'd been to the room to plot an assassination, the door appeared, and Draco went inside to find an open space with duelling dummies and a determined-looking Hermione, wand in hand, standing in the middle of the room. She was even wearing her athletic Muggle clothing and had managed to get her hair into a messy bun on the top of her head.

"Dragon Boy reporting for duty," said Draco as he saluted the witch. Hermione chuckled as she took a few steps towards him. "What's on the agenda for today, Cat Girl?" he asked with a grin, taking out his wand and not feeling nervous about what she would do to him – not nervous at all.

"My original plan was to ensure your Protego was up to snuff, but I learned something the other day at DA training that I wanted to show you," she said with a wide smile.

Tilting his head, Draco narrowed his eyes. "And what do you want to show me?"

"My otter," she stated with a curt nod.

"Um — Hermione, what the fuck –"

"My Patronus, you pervert!" she laughed. "Harry has been teaching how to cast a successful Patronus, and I was able to cast a full corporeal one! It's an otter," she smiled as she turned and waved her wand. "Expecto Patronum."

Draco watched as a white light burst from the tip of her wand, and the form of a small animal took shape as it swam around her.

"Fuck, that's – that's incredible, Hermione," he said in awe as the otter began to circle around him. Then, finally, the creature disappeared. Draco looked at Hermione, who had a wistful smile on her face. "What did you think of?" he asked curiously. "I tried teaching myself while locked at the manor this summer. Thought of the first time I rode a broom, but nothing happened. Just a little white spark," he said with a scrunched nose.

"You know, Harry told me he had the same thought when he'd first tried the charm years ago," chuckled Hermione causing Draco to roll his eyes. "But it's not just conjuring a happy memory. You have to feel it in here," she said, placing a hand over her heart. "Sometimes just a memory won't do — the feeling is more important. Harry thought of his parents' love, even though he has no real memory of them. I thought of my parents and – well – just being with the people I love."

"Right –" said Draco, understanding. He raised his wand and took a breath. "So, not just happy thoughts but happy feelings?"

Hermione smiled with a nod.

Draco readied himself as he closed his eyes, thinking of Daniel and Alma, how much they loved him, and his father's words that they never wanted to give him up. "Salazar, I hope it's not a ferret," he mumbled. "Expecto Patronum." They both watched as a small light burst from his wand, but it quickly vanished. "I think my happy feelings are tainted with too much – grief," he said sadly. He looked at Hermione, whose eyes began to well with tears. "Sorry – I didn't mean to upset you," he started, seeing her concern. He then had another thought as he readied his wand to try again. "Expecto Patronum."

Draco's wand suddenly produced a blindingly white light as a giant beast took form and began flying around the room.

"Draco!" said Hermione in amazement. "It's a dragon."

Draco watched his Patronus fly around the room, lighting the entire space. "It's a Swedish Short Snout," he laughed. He could see Hermione wave her wand, and soon her otter was floating around with the Dragon. She ran up to him as their Patronuses circled the room, and Draco wrapped his arms around her for a tight embrace.

"What did you think of?" she asked, looking into his eyes.

"Being with the people I love."

Draco watched a large grin spread across her face, and he considered telling her that he simply thought of her. But, not wanting to weigh the moment down with such a daring confession, he merely gave Hermione another affectionate squeeze and took a step back, satisfied with simply sharing the moment with her.

6 December 1995

"Fuck," growled Draco as he threw another book across the room. "This is a fucking waste of time. What good are these fucking meetings? We've nothing to show for weeks of reading shitty books about wards," he said as he slumped against the wall.

"We'll figure it out, Draco," said Theo softly.

"Fuck you and your silver linings," he spat angrily.

"Draco," came Blaise's voice. He could also see Hermione was frowning.

"Sorry, Theo," grumbled Draco. "I'm just so tired," he said honestly as he leaned back and closed his eyes. "And I haven't eaten in days because your Dumb Arse friends keep putting stuff in my food to make me sick, and I've got an itch on my back that I can't fucking reach that I'm pretty sure is the cruellest jinx ever invented," he whinged. "And my hair keeps getting charmed with different colours."

Hermione took a seat next to him and pushed back his fringe. "You didn't look so bad as a ginger," she giggled. "Although this shade of purple really clashes with your skin tone."

Draco let out a laugh causing everyone to relax a bit. "I'm really sorry for being an arsehole these days," he said honestly.

"Draco, I've only ever known you to be an arsehole, so the fact that you're at least apologising is good enough for me," chuckled Blaise as he took a seat across from him.

"Yeah, Draco – I'm just glad you're not pushing me into any more sharp corners," said Theo with a smirk.

"Fuck you," said Draco playfully. "And I'm really sorry for – what I'd said then. And I'm sorry for only now – uh – apologising."

Theo shrugged. "It was a stressful summer – all good, mate."

"We should do a TWAT retreat," said Hermione, causing all three wizards to give her a quizzical stare. "I mean – the Christmas holiday is only a few days away. Theo's already coming home with me – maybe you two could come as well?"

Blaise smiled. "That sounds brilliant, Granger. But I'll probably just visit for a day. My mother is between husbands, and I don't want to leave her alone. We'll be staying in Muggle London this year, so I'm sure I could pop in."

"That would be wonderful, Blaise. Draco?" said Hermione as she turned to him.

"I'll owl Narcissa and tell her I'm staying with Theo. She'll obviously say yes, given everything she does for me is driven by deep-seated guilt now," he said cheekily as Hermione rolled her eyes.

"Excellent!" said Theo excitedly. "Yuletide TWAT, coming at ya –"

"Please stop," said Draco, but then he looked at Blaise and Hermione's faces. "Sorry. Continue, Theo," he said as he gestured for Theo to speak.

Theo adjusted his robes. "As I was saying –" he took a breath, pulled his Terminator sunglasses out of his pocket, putting them on his face. "Yuletide TWAT, coming at ya hot!"

16 December 1995

D: It's yellow :(

H: Your hair is normally

H: Yellow numpty

D: No Granger

D: It's HUFFLEPUFF

D: Yellow now!

D: (T_T)

H: Oh wow

D: Give me names

H: I can't betray the DA

D: GRANGER

H: It might have been

H: Me :o}

D: Betrayal :-O

H: Okay but hear

H: Me out

D: :-[

H: Seamus was going

H: To douse you with

H: A love potion

D: What the fuck?

H: For Professor Umbridge

D: X_X

D: The yellow is growing

D: On me

H: That's what I thought

H: :o)

D: Still want to have SECS

D: Tomorrow night? :D

H: ;)

17 December 1995

Draco sat at the Slytherin table, checking his food for any contaminates, hoping he could at least eat a fucking piece of bread and not have to run to the loo shortly after. Unfortunately, the jinxes were getting worse, and Draco was pretty sure, judging by how his clothes fit, he'd lost a good amount of weight, having not eaten much over the past few weeks.

Combined with everything else going on, he was looking forward to spending the holidays at the Grangers. He'd even devised a plan to tell Hermione how he felt and hoped to Godric it wouldn't ruin their friendship. He didn't care anymore (lies) if she reciprocated and simply wanted her to know.

All the students turned their heads when the owls began to flutter in, indicating the post had arrived. Draco's heart dropped when he recognised Lucius' owl silently flying into the Great Hall as if about to attack its prey. The owl landed right in front of Draco and dropped an envelope before immediately taking off, not even waiting for a fucking treat.

Draco took the letter in hand and carefully opened it, dreading what the damn wizard even had to say. Then, heart pounding, he unfolded the parchment and began to read.

Draco,

It has come to my attention that my wife has given you permission to stay at Nott Manor over the holiday. Unfortunately, I cannot let this happen. You are required to come to Malfoy Manor for the duration of the Hogwarts term break. An associate of mine has recently taken residence at the manor and would like to meet you. We expect you to travel by Floo as Narcissa and I will be unavailable to pick you up at King's Cross Station this year. If you disobey these orders, there will be severe consequences.

Don't be late.

Lucius Malfoy

"Fucking monster," hissed Draco as he tore up the letter. The Slytherins around him stared in confusion at his behaviour, but he was too upset to care as he stormed out of the Great Hall.

Abraxas needed to be dead, and he needed to be dead now.

Later That Evening

"He's really forcing you to go to the manor?" asked Hermione sadly as they sat alone on the floor in the Room of Requirement. She took a bite of one of the sandwiches she'd made, noticing that Draco hadn't been eating. It warmed his heart when he arrived in the room to see she had brought an entire basket of non-poisoned food for him.

"Yes. Apparently, some fucking Death Eater wants to meet me or some shite," he huffed bitterly before diving into his pudding.

"You're supposed to eat your dinner first – then pudding, Draco," she chuckled.

"Just because you're my spy handler doesn't mean you can boss me around," he quipped. But then the witch narrowed her eyes, and he quickly grabbed the sandwich instead. "Only because it's the holidays," he mumbled.

"Will they hurt you again?" Hermione asked after a few minutes, scooting closer.

"As deplorable as Lucius Malfoy is, he's bound by the Vow to protect me, so I think I'll be alright. And given the ugly Carrot has to wear nappies the rest of her life, I think the other Death Eaters have taken the hint not to torture me in my own fucking home."

"I'm still worried," said Hermione as she pushed to her feet. "Let's practice some more – I want to ensure you can defend yourself."

"Might do me some good to get out some frustration," said Draco as he stood and turned to face a duelling dummy. He immediately began to send hex after hex in anger which only began to work him up more. "FUCKING CUNT!" he yelled as he sent a powerful stinging hex. Unfortunately, he missed the dummy, and the hex went flying just as Hermione took a wrong step, right in the line of fire.

"Oh!" she yelled as she fell to the ground, grabbing her shoulder.

"Oh, fuck," said Draco with wide eyes as he ran to her. "Hermione? Oh, fuck I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry," he said as she scrunched her face in pain. Draco helped her into a seated position as she continued to rub the injury. "I'm so sorry."

Hermione took a calming breath. "I'm alright," she winced.

"I'm really sorry," he said again, feeling like shite.

"I forgive you," she said as she took his hand. "Draco –" Suddenly, Hermione started crying, causing him to panic.

"Should we go to the hospital wing or – or –"

"No," she sniffed, wiping her eyes. "I'm – I'm not crying because of the sting. I'm –" She took a shuddering breath. "I'm so sorry I haven't told you yet," she said sadly. "I forgive you, Draco. For everything," she said as she looked him in the eyes. "And I'd wanted to tell you – months ago. But then we found your parents' flat and – and you were so – out of sorts, and then we just never had any time alone and – I wanted to tell you in person," she rambled, tears streaming down her face. "And you've been suffering all this time still thinking that I was still holding on to the past," she cried.

"Hey, it's okay," he said as he pulled her into a hug. "I'm just glad you're not hurt," he said honestly as he pulled back and wiped the tears from her face. "I would wait forever for you to be ready to forgive me," he smiled as he rested his forehead against hers without thinking. They both remained silent as their noses touched, and Draco's heart began to pound. "Hermione," he said softly as he leaned in.

"Oh," she exclaimed as she pulled back, causing his entire being to deflate. He watched in confusion as she pulled a Galleon out of her pocket. "It's Harry," she said, looking panicked. "They think Mr Weasley was attacked."

19 December 1995

Draco looked out the window as the Hogwarts Express finally pulled into King's Cross Station. He watched as the eager parents waited to pick up their students for the Winter Hols and smiled slightly when he saw Theo walking with Hermione, bound for the Muggle side of the station where he knew the Grangers would be waiting. Orla had already left a few days early, claiming her family had some sort of tradition she didn't care to elaborate about. And given the witch was just so fucking odd – awesome – but a fucking weirdo like Loony, no one questioned it.

It was difficult for Draco to accept that he wouldn't be going with Theo and Hermione as they'd planned. And the thought that even fucking Blaise would get to spend time with his best friends made his heart hurt in a way he couldn't explain.

"You coming?" asked Pansy, who'd been in a much happier mood as of late. Draco's only guess was the witch finally accepted Marline wasn't cheating on her and simply had a busy schedule being a seventh year.

"Go on – I'll owl you, I promise," he smiled. Pansy raised a brow and then smiled back before waving him off.

Slinging his backpack over his shoulder, Draco slowly made his way off the train, where he'd also exit to Muggle London and then on to the Leaky Cauldron, where he'd Floo over to Malfoy Manor.

In the chaos of discovering that the Weasel's father had been attacked at the Ministry, he'd only gotten a chance to briefly say goodbye to TWAT as the DA had an emergency meeting – which Draco, of course, was not a part of. It was hard not to wallow in self-pity at how unfair everything was. Here he was literally protecting the Dumb Arses, only for them to jinx and hex him nearly every fucking time he walked the corridors or tried to eat a decent meal.

Thankfully Potter had managed to have some kind of vision about the fucking attack, and Arthur was found alive and immediately sent to St. Mungo's. Thus, the DA wouldn't be taking vengeance on anyone - aka Draco – as he would be the easiest target.

The sound of Muggles bustling about the busy train station fell into the background as Draco made his way through the building.

"The end of the world is upon us!"

Draco turned his head to see a man dressed in rags, holding some sort of device as he yelled into the crowd. Rolling his eyes, he continued walking, thinking the damned idiot might be right. The fact that fucking Voldemort was clearly working his way into power — case and point, the Death Eaters having teatime at the manor – he wondered if this really was the end. That he'd never get to kill Abraxas. Never get to meet his parents. Never get to finally fucking tell Hermione how he felt.

Suddenly, the sound of a high-pitched noise caught Draco's attention, but he quickly lowered his head and kept walking.

"I have an – er – announcement," he heard a timid voice say. Draco slowly turned around in confusion, certain he'd heard the voice before, although it sounded a bit distorted. His eyes widened when he saw Hermione standing on a bench, holding the odd man's device while a crowd gathered around.

"What the fuck?" he said as he began to push through the crowd, walking towards her.

"If you change your mind –" she began to sing awkwardly, causing people to laugh. "I'll be first in line – Draco – I'm still free. Take a chance on me –" she continued to sing.

"Hermione," Draco hissed as he finally pushed to the front. "What the fuck?" he laughed in confusion. But she just looked at him and continued to sing.

"If you need me, let me know, gonna be around. If you've got no place to go, if you're feeling down."

"Granger," he said again as he reached for her hand. "Get down – people are staring," he said in embarrassment, still not understanding what she was doing.

She finally gave him a pointed look. "I'm trying to make it abundantly clear!" she hissed and then returned to singing. "If you're all alone when the pretty birds have flown–"

"Alright! Enough!" came an authoritative voice as a man in a uniform began to disperse the crowd. Hermione finally took Draco's hand with a sheepish look as she hopped down and handed the device back to the angry-looking man she'd obviously stolen it from.

Draco pulled her through the now dispersing crowd, still bewildered about what the fuck was happening. "Hermione, what in Salazar's name were you doing?" he asked when they found a private spot to talk.

"I – sorry. I thought – I wanted to – to show you how I felt," she said, clearly embarrassed. "I thought maybe you felt the same way – but – I'm so embarrassed. I'm so sorry –" she continued to ramble.

"Wait," said Draco as his brain finally got a fucking clue. "The song – you –" He then remembered where he'd heard the odd song before and how Mr Granger had sung it to her mum. Draco began to laugh as he put his hands on her shoulders to get her to stop rambling. Hermione froze, and before overthinking it, Draco leaned in.

"Ow!"

"Fuck!"

Unfortunately, having never kissed someone before and Hermione not expecting it, he only managed to roughly bump his forehead into hers.

"I'm really sorry, Draco. I hope this doesn't ruin our friendship," she said, rubbing her forehead. "I -"

"Granger," he interrupted with a laugh. "I'm trying to fucking kiss you, you fucking oblivious witch."

Hermione finally looked at him in the eyes with her own as round as saucers.

"You mean you feel the same way?" she asked in surprise.

"Hermione, I've been trying to tell you for fucking ages that I fancy you."

Hermione's face lit up in relief as she threw her arms around him and planted a kiss right on his lips. He froze momentarily but then eventually wrapped his arms around her.

"Fuck," he said breathlessly as they pulled back.

"I didn't realise how I felt about you until you left for your disciplinary hearing. I – I've sort of fancied you for a while now," she said with an impish grin.

Draco let out a sharp laugh. "Fucking Salazar, Hermione. I've fancied you since you fucking created those hideous SPEW badges."

Hermione's eyes widened. "You're barking," she giggled. "You have not!"

He simply leaned in and kissed her again as she let out a content sigh, going straight to his groin. "We should stop," he said hesitantly, pulling back. "I still have to walk all the way to the Leaky," he added, making a face hoping he wouldn't have to explain.

"What?" she said in confusion.

"Granger –" Draco watched Hermione's eyes widen, and then she started laughing.

"Right – well – message me when you get to the Leaky and then when you get to the manor and then –"

"I promise," he cut in, giving her another hug. "Are you really here?" he questioned softly, half thinking he was having a hallucination.

"I'm really here," she laughed and then pulled away. "Also, that was way better than the only other time I've ever kissed someone," she smiled. "Davy planted one right on me after he signed my Z.O.O. petition," she said, scrunching her nose at the memory.

"Wait – you never – with Krum?" Draco asked in confusion.

Hermione began to giggle. "Oh, Merlin, no. I never felt that way about him. He was too physical. Always wanted to have me watch him play Quidditch rather than have a conversation," she said matter-of-factly.

"Ah," he laughed. "Well, the only other time I've kissed someone was when Pansy dared Millicent to kiss me when I was seven – it was traumatising."

They stood awkwardly for a few more seconds, and Draco looked at his watch. "Shite – I have to go," he said, moving in to give her a quick kiss and another hug. Then he rested his chin on her head. "I don't want to let you go."

"Then don't," she said softly. "I'll be right here," she added, placing her hand over his heart – but then he realised she was touching the pocket where he kept his Galleon, causing him to smile.

"Clever clogs," he sighed.

"But I need to go too," she said, taking a hesitant step back. "I sort of jumped out of a moving vehicle and told my parents that I needed to give you a proper goodbye – they're probably wondering what happened to me," she laughed.

"Oh, fuck – Cat Girl," Draco said in surprise. "You are insane."

"And you fancy me still," she smiled, moved in for one more hug, and waved. "I'll see you next year, Dragon Boy."

"See you," he smiled, watching as she turned, disappearing into the crowd.

After staring at nothing for far too long, Draco finally shook himself out of his daze and turned to continue his own journey.

"She fancies me," he huffed to himself. "And we kissed," he added in disbelief as the reality of what had just transpired finally hit. He looked back again, even though he knew she wouldn't be there, feeling his heart sink slightly, wishing he could have more time with the crazy witch.

After navigating his way to the Leaky Cauldron, Draco went straight for the floo, grabbing some powder. But just before he uttered his destination, he felt his pocket burn, and smiled as he pulled out the Galleon.

H: Miss you already

H: Also check your backpack

Draco furrowed his brow as he slung the backpack off his back, realising it was heavier than it had been before he left the station. "What the fuck?" he muttered as he unzipped the bag. Draco nearly burst into tears when a familiar little face poked out.

"Mr Shanks, you little stow away," he said, fondly scratching the cat's head as it purred. He left the bag unzipped just enough so he could look around then Draco gripped the Galleon in his palm, heart full of hope.

D: How the fuck did

D: You get Mr Shanks

D: Into my fucking backpack?

H: Theo might have witnessed

H: Our first kiss ;P

D: Minx :P

H: It's why you like me

D: :D

H: :D

Draco returned the Galleon to his pocket and turned his head slightly. "Ready, Mr Shanks?" He felt the cat give a tiny lick to his cheek. Then, Draco took a breath and cast the powder.

"Malfoy Manor."

A/N: Enter Dramione :D

"Always let your conscience be your guide" Pinocchio 1940 Film

"By the time I was ten, playing baseball got to be like eating vegetables or taking out the garbage. So when I was 14, I started to refuse. Could you believe that? An American boy refusing to play catch with his father?" Field of Dreams 1989 Film

"There is no fate but what we make ourselves" Terminator 2: Judgement Day 1991 Film

"Great men are not born great, they grow great" The Godfather 1972 Film

"You know, sometimes I amaze even myself" Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope 1977 Film

"Do or do not. There is no try" Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back 1980 Film

"Who's strangling the cat?" James Bond GoldenEye 1995 Film

"Fancy meeting you here" After the Thin Man 1936 Film

"Your eyes deceive you; don't trust them" Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope 1977 Film

"In my experience, there's no such thing as luck" Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope

"I find your lack of faith disturbing" Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope

"Never tell me the odds" Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back 1980 Film