Run
Chapter Eight
Disclaimer: HP is the property of the wonderful Ms. J.K. Rowling.
Maybe it was her so-called woman's intuition, but something in the tone of Ginny's voice told Hermione that this was not going to be good. She invited Ginny into her living quarters and shut the door behind them.
"Gin, this is so unexpected. What is it that we need to talk about so urgently that you felt the need to come here?" Hermione asked, a weird sinking feeling forming in the pit of her stomach.
Ginny took a deep breath. "Hermione, let's sit," she said as she took a seat on the couch in the living room.
Hermione was still standing and was still a bit unsure of what she should do. "Can I get you anything to drink?" she asked out of habit and nervousness.
Her friend shook her head. "No thank you. Merlin this is so messed up and I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but you need to know."
"What is it Ginny?" Hermione asked softly and sank down next to her.
"Last Friday evening I was at The Leaky Cauldron with Fleur and Luna. We were having dinner and Draco showed up with Blaise Zabini and Theo Nott. They never noticed us and sat in a booth behind us. I was able to listen to their conversation and Hermione, it centered on you," Ginny said quickly.
Hermione sat up straighter and fixed Ginny with a hard stare. "Go on," she said flatly.
"Blaise and Theo asked Draco why he was spending so much time with you. Draco told them that it was because of a bet he'd made with Pansy Parkinson Chalmers," Ginny replied and braced herself for Hermione's reaction.
"A bet? Lay it on me Gin, I'm sure this is going to be good," Hermione said humorlessly as she continued to stare at her friend.
"He said that Pansy bet him that he couldn't make you fall for him. Draco told his friends that it took some time but he won the bet and that was why he spent so much time with you. All for a fucking bet," Ginny said and shook her head. "Hermione, I wanted so badly to jump into that booth and hex him, beat the crap out of him, something, but I couldn't make a scene in front of Fleur and Luna. I haven't told anyone about you and Draco."
"Is that all?" Hermione asked, still speaking in a flat tone.
Ginny shook her head again. "No. When one of those gits he hangs around with asked why he was still with you, Draco said it was because you were a good shag." She waited for Hermione's reaction to this, wondering if her friend was going to go totally ballistic. Instead she watched in shock as Hermione sat back and laughed harshly and then began to speak.
"That's quite a revelation Ginny. Thanks for sharing that with me," Hermione spat.
"Hermione, I hope you aren't pissed at me. I mean, if I was in your position I'd want to know if some guy was making an arse out of me," Ginny replied.
Hermione shook her head. "I'm not pissed at you. Tell me something Ginny? I thought everything was fine. Draco has been so sweet to me these past few months. How could he do this all for a bet? What the fuck is wrong with him? I should've listened to you Gin. You tried telling me about his track record with women. Why the hell did I think I'd be any different? Oh Merlin, I've really screwed up. I can't believe I was so fucking stupid. You want to hear something really messed up? I slept with him last night."
Ginny felt terrible but Hermione needed to know. "I'm sorry Hermione. From what you'd been telling me I wanted to give Draco the benefit of the doubt. I'm angry at what he did to you, but I'm also disappointed. You want to believe that people can change for the better and something like this happens. For the record, you are far from stupid Hermione. You fell for him. Let's face it, Draco is a great looking guy and can turn on the charm."
"I don't know what's real anymore. Ginny, Draco made me feel so special. Wow, what must he really think of me? A bet of all things. I can really choose them Gin. I feel so used," Hermione said, her voice cracking and a few tears spilling down her cheeks.
"For what's it's worth Hermione, as far as I know no one within our circle of friends knows about you and Draco, except for me. Hopefully his friends won't go around blabbering about this. What are you going to do?" Ginny asked, as she gently took one of Hermione's hands in her own.
Hermione sighed and wiped away the tears. "I know I'm not going to take this sitting down. I will definitely confront Draco about this. I want to hear what he has to say." She looked around the living room and jerked her head towards a bouquet of flowers. "Look at that bouquet Gin. I know it wasn't cheap. He really went all out; all for a fucking bet. You should see the notes he sends me. How could he play with my feelings and emotions like that? As if I'm not human or something."
"Don't say that Hermione! You are one of the strongest, most intelligent women I know. You truly believed that Draco had feelings for you. Hell I was wanting to believe it too when I saw how happy he made you. Do you want me to stay here tonight? I don't have to be at practice until tomorrow afternoon," Ginny said. After finishing at Hogwarts, she was recruited by the Holyhead Harpies and was a star player on the professional quidditch team.
"I'll be fine Gin. Go on back to Grimmauld Place. I'm sure Harry is wondering where you are," Hermione said absently and started to walk over to her small kitchen. She needed a cup of tea; it was going to be a long night as she processed what Ginny revealed to her.
"Harry and Ron are off on an assignment. It's no problem, I'll stay. Let's have some tea," Ginny said gently as she followed Hermione to the kitchen. She ended up staying for the night. The two friends talked until the early morning hours. When it was 2 a.m., they tried to get a few hours of sleep, but Hermione's mind was still racing, so she only tossed and turn. She finally gave up and was up at 6:30 a.m. Ginny woke up a few minutes later and left soon after but not before making sure Hermione was okay.
Somehow Hermione managed to make it through the day. She focused on her students and the horses. The only time she almost broke down was when she received an owl from Draco.
One day closer to Friday. Miss you.-D.
For a moment, she thought about performing an Incendio charm on the note, but she placed it near the one she had received the day before. Using every bit of self-restraint she had to ignore it, Hermione decided to play it cool and wrote back.
Can't wait-H.
As the week progressed, Hermione kept this pretense up of sending cutesy, flirty messages back to Draco so he wouldn't suspect anything was amiss. Hermione started building up a shield of indifference, a way of protecting herself from getting hurt again. Of all of the available wizards, how could she have let herself fall for Draco Malfoy? She couldn't wait to confront him on Friday. Hermione began to form a plan.
Different scenarios began to crop up in her mind as Friday approached. In the end, Hermione decided that the best approach would be to ask Draco about it in a casual manner. It was going to be interesting to see his reaction.
Draco usually arrived at 6:30 p.m. Fridays. In the past, Hermione had always been dressed and ready to go. This Friday when it was almost 6:30, Hermione was still in her work clothes and needed a shower. She had no intention of dressing up for Draco. She was helping one of the elves with a horse that needed to have a shoe replaced when Draco walked into the stable. When he found Hermione, he was a bit taken aback at her appearance.
"Hey love, did you lose track of time? It's 6:30," Draco said jokingly. Although Hermione was still in her work clothes, he was still turned on by how the faded jeans clung to the soft curves of her petite frame.
Hermione continued to monitor the elf as he tacked on the shoe. After a few moments, she turned to look at Draco as she walked out of the stable and towards her quarters. He looked so devastatingly handsome in dark jeans and a sage-colored button down shirt. For a moment, she wanted to forget about what Ginny had told her and jump into his arms, but this soon passed as she regained her composure. "Is it now? I guess I was so busy I did lose track of time. I bet that is what happened," she said pointedly with a smirk on her face.
Draco gave her a strange look as he followed her. Something isn't right, he thought. "Is everything okay love? Did you have a bad day?" he asked, concerned as he moved closer to her. He was about to brush her cheek when Hermione gave him a withering look. Draco looked at her with a hurt expression. What the hell was happening? He asked in his mind.
Hermione's heart almost melted when she saw the hurt look on his face, but she needed to confront him about this. "Yeah it's safe to say I had a bad day and a bad week. Let's just say I found out something really interesting about a bet you made with Pansy Parkinson Chalmers regarding me," Hermione spat and waited for his reaction.
Draco's face reddened and then paled. This couldn't be possible! How did she find out? He decided that his best option was to come clean with her. "I don't know who told you about this, but look it was something really stupid on my part and Pansy's. When I started to get to know you, we forfeited the bet. I'm really sorry, I never meant to hurt you. I've come to really care about you Hermione."
Hermione looked at him and shook her head. "So it is true. You only went out with me to fulfill the terms of a bet, but along the way you started to care for me? Who the fuck does something like that Draco? Do you get some kind of perverse pleasure from messing around with someone's life? I've come to care for you too, but now I realize that I don't know who you are or what I really mean to you. You're telling me that the bet is over with you and Pansy yet just last Friday you were telling your stupid friends that you won the bet. "Yeah, don't look so shocked," she said sarcastically when Draco opened and closed his mouth rapidly, as if he wanted to interrupt her. "A friend of mine was at The Leaky Cauldron and heard everything!"
Draco wracked his brain as he thought about the events of last Friday. He never noticed any of Hermione's friends at The Leaky Cauldron. He wondered if it was that sneaky Harry Potter or Ronald Weasley. They hated him and this revelation probably made their day, probably their year. "Hermione, I don't know what to say. It was really stupid, but my friends are such jerks. They'd never understand what you and I have. I didn't think it was such a big deal to tell them about the bet. They'll just have to get used to the idea that we're together. I'm so sorry. I want to move past this Hermione. I'll do anything to make this up to you."
"At the moment I don't think you can Draco. I wanted to believe that you'd changed and weren't capable of something like this. Look I just want to be alone. I need time to think about this," Hermione replied. It was breaking her heart as she caught the look of desperation in his eyes, but she honestly didn't know what to think anymore. Are his feelings real or is it all a ploy to keep sleeping with her?
Draco lightly grasped her arms to pull her to him, but Hermione remained in place with her arms folded and a stoic look on her face. "Don't do this Hermione. We can fix this. Come on, let's go inside and talk this out. Don't walk away from me," Draco said as she turned away and walked to her front door. He started to follow her in, but Hermione put a hand up to stop him, shaking her head.
"No Draco, stay where you are. You need to give me some space. Just go," Hermione said as she closed the door. When she was inside, she closed her eyes and leaned against the door. Tears were coursing down her face and she really wanted to let Draco in, but she had her pride. She winced as Draco banged on the door.
"Hermione, let me in! We need to talk about this. I'm not leaving until we do," Draco yelled, not caring who heard him.
She turned and opened the door. "Draco, leave! Quit making a spectacle-," Hermione started to say, when Draco brushed past her and shut the door. She looked at him and slowly shook her head. "Get out Draco."
"No, I'm not going anywhere until we discuss this. Just hear me out Hermione. Why don't you cool down and take a shower. I'll whip up something for dinner while you're doing that," Draco pleaded.
She really wanted to tell him to go, get out of her life and never come back, but there was something in his eyes that stopped her. There wasn't any trace of the arrogant git she and her friends loved to hate at Hogwarts. Draco looked like he was really sorry for what had happened. Maybe, just maybe there was a chance they could work this out. It was at that moment Hermione realized she was in love with him. Why did life have to be so freaking complicated?
"Okay Draco, but when I get out of the bathroom you better be ready to be interrogated. I want to know everything," Hermione stated with a determined look on her face and then turned to walk to the bathroom.
Draco let out a sigh of relief. "I'm an open book, I'll tell you anything you want to know," he called out to her. Thank Merlin, thank Merlin he thought. He was so thankful that Hermione was willing to hear him out. He could've kicked himself for being so damn stupid and all because he didn't want to catch any crap from his stupid friends. Draco didn't know how he was going to handle this if Hermione ultimately decided that she no longer wanted to see him.
As he rummaged through her kitchen, he shook his head. There really wasn't anything to make a meal. Draco thought for a few seconds and summoned one of the house elves from Malfoy Manor. The male elf appeared instantly and listened as Draco gave him instructions. Within minutes, an elf named Dorfin returned with a container of steaming beef and vegetable soup, bread, and two salads. Draco thanked him. Dorfin nodded and disappeared since his duty was done. Draco set the small table in Hermione's kitchen and sat down. He couldn't hear the flow of the water from the shower, so he figured she was done with her shower. Draco took a deep breath and waited patiently. After a few minutes, Hermione walked into the kitchen. His eyes never left her as she looked at the food on the table and sat across from him. He thought that she looked so fragile and innocent in her pajamas. It took all of his inner strength not to go to Hermione and pull her into his arms.
Hermione felt a little better after a hot shower. As she pulled on the faded grayish/pink plaid pajama bottoms and one of her father's old T-shirts, she felt a small sense of comfort. Pulling her hair up into a messy bun, she looked into the mirror in the bathroom. Taking a deep breath, Hermione knew it was time to face Draco. She didn't want to admit it, but she was glad to see that he was still there and hadn't left in a huff after they'd exchanged words. Hermione truly wanted to believe him she thought as she walked over to the kitchen where Draco was waiting.
As she took a seat across from him, Hermione was impressed with what he had put together for dinner. She suppressed a small smile when it hit her that she didn't have much to eat in her kitchen except for a few apples and bottles of American beer. She normally took meals with the other instructors in the Great Hall, so she really didn't keep much food in her quarters. As the aroma of the beef and vegetable soup wafted over to her nostrils, she knew Draco had summoned one of his house elves for this.
Taking a sip of the soup, Hermione closed her eyes and savored the flavor. She wasn't sure if she was going to be able to eat anything this evening, but after tasting the soup she realized how hungry she was and ended up eating the whole bowl and a slice of bread. She picked at her salad and ended up pushing it aside. The soup and bread had filled her up.
Draco also consumed his soup, along with his salad, and bread. He was glad to see Hermione eating and hoped that this was a good sign. Merlin, please let us resolve this tonight, I don't want to lose her, he thought. When they were done, he did a bit of wandless magic. Within a few seconds the table was cleared and the dishes were clean. That done, Draco turned to Hermione.
"Well, you said that you wanted to interrogate me. I'm ready. Ask me anything, anything you want," Draco said as he looked into Hermione's eyes.
It started when Draco came clean and admitted to Hermione that he'd been attracted to her since he had seen her on the cover of The Daily Prophet.
Hermione groaned and closed her eyes, and then opened them again. "Are you really talking about that picture of me when I was working at Daisy Springs? Oh Merlin, that portrait was awful!"
Draco slowly shook his head. "You looked so beautiful in that picture. I couldn't believe it was you."
"Gee thanks Draco. I guess I was really unfortunate looking while we were in school," Hermione scoffed.
Draco sighed. "That's not what I meant. I always thought you were pretty, but that picture just captured something spectacular. You looked so relaxed and happy."
"You always thought I was pretty? You had a bizarre way of letting me know that. You were such an arsehole Draco," Hermione stated in a slightly sarcastic tone.
"I know and a little part of that persona came out last Friday when I was with my friends. I don't know why I said it─ I wanted to take it back so badly, but the damage was done. It was so stupid. I'll do anything to make it up to you. Tell me and I'll do it. I'm just going to lay it all out Hermione. I know I wasn't the best person at Hogwarts and until I started seeing you a few months ago, I was a real git to women. I didn't think having feelings like the ones I have for you could be possible."
Hermione was so touched by how Draco was revealing so much of himself to her and she wanted nothing more than to fall into his arms, but she held back. "I have feelings for you too Draco, but I can't help asking if this is real or just you playing mind tricks. Making a bet to get someone to fall in love with you is pretty vile."
Draco and Hermione talked for about two more hours; he begged for her forgiveness and Hermione found herself slowly relenting. There was no way around it, she was stuck. Draco Malfoy had her heart. Be that as it may, Hermione wasn't about to let him off the hook that easily. Exhausted from their discussion, she went to bed. Draco tried to follow her but she slowly shook her head, handing him a pillow and blanket, directing him towards the couch in her living room.
"You're welcome to stay, but you'll have to sleep on the couch," Hermione said warily. She had decided that they could work it out, but she resolved she wasn't going to sleep with him. She waited to see his reaction.
"I understand," Draco said quietly as he took the pillow and blanket from her. "I'll be here if you need me."
Hermione could only nod as she closed the door to her bedroom. Once she was inside, a slow smile spread over her face. He really was trying to make it up to her. She had been certain that Draco would've have left rather than sleep on the uncomfortable couch, but the fact that he was actually going to stay spoke volumes. She climbed into her bed and within minutes was asleep.
Draco let out a breath as he took in his "bed" for the night. He stripped down to his boxers and arranged the pillow on the couch. He sat and then tried to find a comfortable sleeping position. This couch was not made for his tall frame, he thought as he looked at his legs hanging over the sides. An extension charm on the couch fixed that and it was a little more bearable, but Draco longed to be with Hermione. It was killing him to know that she was only a few feet away. He sighed and pulled the blanket over him. It took some time, but he finally fell asleep, thinking about Hermione and hoping that she had forgiven him. Despite the couch being uncomfortable, he managed to fall asleep.
Hermione woke up early the next morning. She sat up in the bed and swung her legs over the side. The events of the night before flooded her mind and she remembered Draco had spent the night. She stood up and tiptoed to her door and opened it quietly. A small smile appeared on her face when she saw Draco sprawled on her couch. Hermione was a little shocked that he'd actually stayed for the night, but she was glad. She turned from the door and went into her bathroom. She came out after a few minutes, feeling refreshed after washing her face and brushing her teeth. She decided to go to Draco.
Unbeknownst to Hermione, Draco had woke up about an hour before she did because he was anxious to see and talk to Hermione again. As he walked quietly to the bathroom, he peeked into her bedroom. Draco leaned against the doorframe and watched Hermione sleep for a few moments. At that moment it hit him how much he had fallen for her. What the hell was he going to do if she totally banished him from her life? With that in mind, Draco moved away and went to the bathroom. When he was done, he went back to his "bed" on the couch and waited for her. In that time he thought about what he was going to say to her when she woke up. He wondered if he should take a chance and tell Hermione he loved her. As he thought about this, he heard Hermione stirring and then listened to the sounds of water running. She was awake. Draco pretended to be asleep.
She hesitated for a few moments, took a deep breath, and then went to the living room where Draco was asleep. Hermione walked over near the sofa and took a seat on chair near the couch. She leaned over and brushed away a lock of his soft blond hair that had fallen against his cheek.
Draco stifled the urge not to grasp her hand and pull her to him. Instead he stirred slightly and let his eyes flutter open, to make it look like she had interrupted his slumber. He loved the feel of her soft hand on his face and took this as a good sign. When his eyes found hers and he stared into them, Draco knew that she'd forgiven him.
"Good morning," Draco said softly. He could feel his heart beating a little faster as he saw a smile forming on her face.
"Good morning. I hope this couch wasn't too uncomfortable," Hermione said with a soft smile on her face.
"I would've slept on a bed of jagged stones if it meant being near you," Draco replied, as he continued to look into her eyes. He meant every word.
"Draco, I so want to believe you when you say that you're sorry. Please don't make me regret letting you into my life," she said as she looked at him and a few tears formed in the corners of her eyes.
This broke Draco's heart. He sat up and stood from the couch. He went to her, kneeling at her feet, and pulled her to him. "Please don't cry Hermione. I meant every word, I've never felt like this before. You won't regret this I promise. I'll do anything you want," he said softly as he gently wiped the tears away.
Hermione closed her eyes and reveled in the feel of his touch. When she opened them, Draco was looking at her with such an intense look of longing, it made her heart feel as it was melting. Slowly, their lips came together into a gentle kiss. It didn't take long for it to intensify as Draco pulled her to him and she was sitting in his lap. When they came up for air, Hermione smiled and rested her forehead against his.
"You're forgiven Draco, but like I said, don't make me regret this," she said softly.
"You won't Hermione. Why don't we get dressed and I'll take you to breakfast," Draco replied. He wanted nothing more than to take Hermione to bed and ravish her for the whole day, but he did not want to make her feel like he only wanted sex. It hit him that he wanted so much more from Hermione. This was it, this was as the muggles said, "the real deal." No other woman made him feel this way.
"That sounds wonderful. I'll get dressed and we'll go," Hermione replied as she stood up. As she was about to go to her bedroom, she turned and looked at Draco. "I'm really glad that you decided to stay."
Draco smiled. "I am too." He watched her walk into her bedroom. Draco gathered his clothes and headed to the bathroom. Once he was dressed, he stepped out and was glad to see Hermione waiting for him in the living room. He took her hand and they left for Hogsmeade to have breakfast.
As they talked quietly over breakfast, Draco and Hermione made plans for the evening. When they were done, Draco went back to his apartment in London and Hermione headed back to Hogwarts. When she arrived, she settled into her daily routine and smiled the whole time. She was in such a good mood. As she was checking on the ponies, she heard someone walk up behind her. When she turned, it was Ginny.
"Hey Gin. How are you?" Hermione asked happily.
"I'm fine thanks. You seem to be in a good mood. I just dropped by to check in with you. How did it go with Draco last night?" Ginny asked hesitantly. She wondered what happened considering how happy Hermione seemed.
Hermione took a deep breath. "Well I confronted him and he told me everything. Draco said he forfeited the bet with Pansy once he realized he had feelings for me. As for his friends, he said that it was really stupid of him to tell them about the bet. He apologized for everything Gin. We're going out tonight."
Ginny took a step back and gave her friend a look of disbelief. "And you believed him? Come on Hermione, you're smarter than that! Malfoy's using you!
"No he's not Ginny! We have feelings for each other. I've never felt like this about anyone before and as much as it bothers me to say this, Ron never made me feel the way Draco does. This is real Gin, as a matter of fact, I…I think I'm in love with him," Hermione replied and realized that it felt so good to actually say it out loud, that she was in love with Draco.
Ginny gave a snort of disgust. "Well isn't that special. You know what Hermione, don't come crying to me when Malfoy breaks your heart into a million pieces."
"Gin, you don't mean that. You're my closest friend. Can't you just be happy for me? If only you knew how wonderfully Draco treats me. I feel like the only woman in the world when I'm with him," Hermione answered.
"I'm sorry I said that Hermione, but damn it to hell. When I think of the way he was talking about you to his friends…Malfoy made it sound like you were just some bint he had picked up the night before. You're my closest friend too, in fact you're the sister I never had. I love you and I'm only looking out for your best interests. That's what friends are for. For what it's worth, I'm there for you if you need anything," Ginny said sadly and pulled Hermione into a hug.
"Thank you Ginny, you don't know how much your friendship and support means to me. Just trust me on this, I'll be fine. Don't worry so much about me, you have a wedding coming up in a few months!" Hermione replied as she hugged her friend back.
"Between my mom, Fleur, and Luna planning it, all I have to do is show up on the big day," Ginny giggled.
Ginny stayed for about another hour, walking with Hermione as she went about her chores at the stable. When she left, she reminded Hermione about picking up her bridesmaid dress and that she would have to join her and Harry for dinner soon. Hermione nodded and waved.
Before Ginny left, she turned back and watched Hermione for a few moments. She hoped that her friend knew what she was doing. She didn't want Hermione to be another notch on Draco Malfoy's bedpost. She wondered what the hell kind of game Malfoy was playing.
Draco was ecstatic when he returned to his apartment. He was going to make sure that this night with Hermione was going to be perfect. He silently thanked Merlin that she was willing to hear his side of what happened and was giving him another chance. Draco knew he couldn't blow this; it scared him when he realized how close he came to losing Hermione forever. All because of his stupid pride and not wanting to look like he was pussywhipped in front of Blaise and Theo.
As he looked in his refrigerator for an apple, Draco heard his floo being activated. With a puzzled look on his face, he closed the refrigerator, and walked towards his living room. When he saw who was there, he smiled. It was his mother checking up on him. Narcissa smiled back and went to him to give him a hug and smooth back a few strands of hair that had fallen over his eyes.
"Draco, I feel like it's been ages since I last saw you. I was running a few errands in Diagon Alley and decided to drop by. I hope I'm not disturbing you," she said.
Draco shook his head and returned the hug. "I had lunch with you and father at the Manor last weekend, it's hardly been ages," he joked.
Narcissa sat down on his couch and patted the cushion next to her. When Draco sat, she began to speak. "I know darling, but I miss you now that you're a grown man and on your own. Draco, I heard something while I was shopping. At first I dismissed it as idle gossip, but when I started to think about it, it made sense. Have you been seeing Hermione Granger?" she asked.
"Yes. Hermione and I have been seeing each other for the past few months. What is the gossip you heard?" Draco asked as he grimaced and tried not to cringe because he knew what type of rumors were floating around about him. He usually paid no attention to this and didn't care, but it was different now that he was with Hermione.
"No need to have that look on your face Draco. I was in Pansy and Roald's shop to pick up a potion and I overheard Pansy telling a young witch that you were dating Hermione Granger and she was glad because it seems like you were settling down. I wanted to ask Pansy more but I didn't want her to think I was eavesdropping on her conversation. Draco, are things serious between you and this young lady?" Narcissa asked.
"Mother, I believe they are. I've never met anyone like Hermione. Everything makes sense when I'm with her," Draco replied with a contented look.
Narcissa raised her eyebrows. This was a new experience for her. Draco had never spoken about a witch in this manner. She didn't want to get her hopes up, but was it possible that Pansy was right? Draco was finally settling down? "Does Ms. Granger feel the same way?" she asked cautiously. Narcissa knew not to pry too much; Draco was usually tightlipped about his relationships if they could be called that. He never stayed with a witch very long.
Draco sighed. "I certainly hope so. I almost messed things up between us because of worrying about what other people think."
"Oh Draco, what happened?" Narcissa asked with a look of concern.
"Mother I'm about to tell you something and it's going to sound bad, but just hear me out. When Hermione first came back to our world, Pansy and I made a bet that I wouldn't be able to get Hermione to fall for me. That is why I started to see her," Draco started to say.
"Draco Malfoy! That is awful, how could you do something like that?" Narcissa asked and was not pleased at the behavior of her son. She couldn't believe he and Pansy would do something so reckless and stupid, especially since they were trying to improve their status within the wizarding world.
"I know it is and believe me, I'm sorry about it. But call it fate or divine intervention, the tables were turned on me. I fell for Hermione and─ and, I'm just going to say it….I'm in love with her," he replied.
"I don't understand. How did you almost mess things up?" she asked with a look of confusion.
"Last Saturday night I was out with Blaise and Theo at The Leaky Cauldron," Draco began when Narcissa interrupted him.
"Merlin Draco, I wish you would stop hanging out with those two. They're so immature," she said with a tinge of disgust in her tone.
"Mother, they've been my friends for a long time. Anyway, they started to ask me about Hermione and I told them about the bet. I said some pretty stupid things so they wouldn't think that I had fallen for Hermione. I didn't know that a friend of Hermione's was there and overheard everything. This friend told Hermione," he said.
"Draco, can you imagine how Ms. Granger felt? I don't think I want to know what those two idiots were saying. So what happened when she confronted you?" she asked.
"Hermione wanted to break it off with me, but I wouldn't let her. Mother, I can't even begin to tell you how relieved I was when she forgave me. I can't imagine life without her. Have you ever felt something so powerful?" Draco asked.
Narcissa nodded. "That's how I feel about your father. It's called love Draco. This is wonderful, I'm so happy for you. Hermione Granger is a lovely young woman."
"Thanks mother. How do you think father is going to feel about this?" he asked.
"Leave your father to me. I have an idea. Why don't you bring Hermione for tea tomorrow afternoon?" Narcissa asked.
"I'll ask her tonight and let you know. I don't want to seem like I'm rushing things, something is telling me that I need to take this relationship slowly with Hermione," he replied.
"I understand. This is a big step for you Draco. It just hit me that she's the first witch you're willingly bringing to the Manor for your father and me to meet. I mean there were those girls you snuck in your bedroom when you were still living with us, but that doesn't count," Narcissa mused.
Draco was shocked. "You and father knew that I had girls spending the night? I always made sure I did a silencing spell. How?"
Narcissa gave a soft laugh. "Just call it parents' intuition. Your father and I were always light sleepers, so when you would return home, we always heard and made note that there were usually two sets of footsteps and giggling before you cast the silencing spell."
Draco shook his head and gave her a sheepish smile. "All this time you and father knew. I thought I was being so sneaky."
"I wanted to tell you, but Lucius always stopped me. He said something about you needing to "sow your oats" and maybe one day you would find the right witch. Is Hermione the right witch?" she asked.
"I certainly hope so Mother," he replied and Draco looked so relaxed and content. Narcissa couldn't help it as a few tears fell. She never thought she'd see the day that Draco was ready to settle down. Draco saw this. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing. I'm just so happy for you dear. I was worried that you were going to be an eternal bachelor and I'd never have grandchildren," Narcissa replied as she wiped away the tears.
Draco hugged his mother and smiled. It felt so good to tell his mother about Hermione and he was ecstatic at her reaction. There were no more prejudices about muggleborns. Hermione was everything he wanted in a woman and as far as he was concerned, no pureblood witch came close to what she meant to him.
He and his mother spoke for a few more minutes and then she returned to the Manor after Draco reassured her that he would let her know about meeting for tea the following day. When she was gone, he decided to take a nap since he had only slept for a few hours on Hermione's uncomfortable couch the night before. When Draco entered his bedroom, he collapsed on his bed and sleep came instantaneously.
When he woke up a few hours later, Draco felt refreshed as he stretched and stood up from his bed. He was glad to see that it was almost 5 p.m. He would soon be meeting Hermione. As he walked into the bathroom to shower and shave, he wondered how the evening was going to go. He decided that a good dinner and dancing were in order. Draco closed his eyes as the warm water washed over him. He couldn't wait to have Hermione in his arms again.
Hermione finished her chores early and retired to her quarters. She also indulged in a few hours of sleep and when she woke up, she felt well-rested. She smiled when she looked at her clock. In another hour she'd be meeting Draco. Undressing and stepping into the shower, she sighed happily. Hermione thought about the night before and was glad that she and Draco were able to sort everything out. Tonight was going to be different; she felt that she and Draco were embarking on a new chapter in their lives.
It was going to be a cold and blustery evening and it looked like snow was a possibility in London. Draco took this into consideration as he dressed. He decided on a white button down shirt and put on a heavy dark green almost black sweater over it. Pairing this with a pair of dark jeans, thick socks, and black loafers, Draco figured he would be warm. The dark green sweater contrasted nicely with his pale hair.
Hermione knew that it was going to be a typical winter evening in London, so she dressed accordingly. She still wanted to dress up, but also keep warm, so she chose a bright pink sweater that hugged her curves and black leggings. She also pulled on thick socks and chose knee-length black boots to complement her ensemble. Deciding to leave her hair down, Hermione took one last look in the full-length mirror in her bedroom. After making sure she had everything, Hermione gave a contented sigh and left her quarters. It wouldn't be long until she was with Draco again.
Draco's heart leapt when he heard the floo in his living room being activated. He had a bright smile when Hermione walked out and brushed off a few snowflakes from her hair and clothes.
Smiling back at him, Hermione laughed and said, "The first snow of the season is here."
"And it won't be the last. Come here," Draco said softly as he and Hermione walked towards each other. When she got closer, Draco pulled her to him and kissed her deeply. Hermione responded and kissed him back. This felt so right. When they came up for air, Draco stood back and gave her an appraising look. "You look ravishing as always love. Shall we head out before I change my mind and carry you to my bedroom?"
Hermione chuckled and took his hand. "Lead the way Mr. Malfoy." Draco led her to the floo and called out Diagon Alley. When they arrived, he led Hermione to The Leaky Cauldron. She made a face when she saw that Draco was taking her there.
"I know this is probably the last place you wanted to go, but Hermione I want to make a statement to the wizarding world. I want everyone to know that we're together. Are you with me?" Draco asked as he looked into her eyes.
Hermione took a deep breath and thought about this for a few moments. "So you really are serious about us Draco? Are you ready for your friends to know we're together?"
Draco nodded and squeezed her hand. "I could ask you the same thing love. Are you ready for your friends to know about us? I've never more serious about anything in my life Hermione. I'm ready."
She turned to him and gave him a tentative smile. "I'm ready too Draco."
Draco smiled back and they walked into The Leaky Cauldron. When they first entered the establishment, it was noisy and filled with witches and wizards. There was quite a crowd gathered because a popular wizard band, The Warped TimeForce" was set to perform that evening. As they made their way through the crowd, Hermione saw quite a few familiar faces from Hogwarts. They smiled when they saw her, but then looks of confusion came over their faces when they saw her hand entwined with Draco's. Hermione only smiled and nodded as they walked towards the back of the pub to find a place to sit. Draco was facing the same reaction from his Slytherin classmates as he walked with Hermione. He finally located an empty table with two chairs. When they were seated, a waitress came by and took their order of Butterbeers with fish and chips.
Pulling Hermione close to him, Draco spoke into her ear so that she could hear him above the din of the crowd. "Well we survived the first phase. I see everyone staring, waiting for one to approach. This didn't take long, here come Lavender Brown and Pavarti Patil. Lucky us," he said sarcastically and smirked as Hermione couldn't help but laugh. Lavender and Pavarti were extremely nosy and notorious gossips.
"Oh wow, fancy meeting you here tonight. Gosh Hermione, it's been ages since I've seen you. Draco, haven't been seeing you too much in the clubs lately," Lavender greeted them, fishing for information. She had heard the rumors about Draco and Hermione but never believed them. Now that she was actually seeing them together, it was killing her to know if they were actually a couple.
"Hermione, I heard that you're now part of the staff at Hogwarts. It's great running into you again, you too Draco," Pavarti said as she looked from Hermione to Draco and then back at Lavender. It was obvious to her that Draco and Hermione were together. Pavarti was freaked out because those two were the last people on earth she ever thought would wind up together. She couldn't wait to tell the rest of their friends about this.
"Nice to see you too," Hermione replied addressing both young women and Draco nodded. He couldn't wait for them to get the hell away from their table. There was a bit more small talk until Lavender spotted the wizards she and Pavarti were meeting that evening. They said goodbye, spouting the usual bullshit about getting together for lunch, etc. Hermione watched them walk away, fought the urge to roll her eyes, and then turned to Draco.
"I didn't think they'd ever leave! What story do you think they're going to concoct about us?" she asked and laughed.
"Probably that I have you under an Imperious Curse or something to that effect," Draco answered as he rubbed her leg underneath the table.
"Mm you have me under some effect, not quite sure what it is," Hermione murmured in his ear.
"I'll show you what effect I'm talking about later tonight," Draco growled.
At that moment, the waitress brought their food to the table. As they ate, they talked over the noise of the other patrons. The band began to play and Hermione was glad that Draco brought her to The Leaky Cauldron. She was actually having a good time. When they finished their meal, the band began to play a slow song and Draco held his hand out to her. Hermione took it and he led her to the dance floor. They had danced before but it was always when they were alone. This was the first time they were going to dance together in a public place.
Draco pulled Hermione close to him as they walked onto the crowded dance floor. There were many eyes upon them, but Draco only had eyes for Hermione. He wanted everyone to know that Hermione was his. His arms were wrapped around her waist and she had hers loosely entwined around his neck. They moved slowly and as the song continued to play, Draco bent his head and kissed Hermione.
At the bar, Lavender and Pavarti watched this with open-mouth amazement. This confirmed that the rumors were true. Blaise and Theo had come in during the dance and were just as shocked as they were. They watched the couple until the song ended and Draco led Hermione back to their table. The two young men made a beeline for the table.
As Draco pulled out Hermione's chair, his face turned into a slight grimace when he saw Blaise and Theo. Hermione sat and watched Draco as he gave his friends a look of apprehension. Please don't let them say something stupid-I will hex them to bits, he thought as he took in the goofy grins they had on their faces. Draco put his arm around Hermione's chair.
"Wasn't expecting to see you out tonight! So you and Granger huh? Having a good time so far?" Blaise asked with a smirk. Theo didn't say anything and looked like he was trying not to laugh.
They really are insufferable gits, Draco thought. He was about to reply when Hermione stood up and smiled at his friends.
"Blaise and Theo, it's been some time since I've seen you. How have you been doing?" she asked as she looked from one to the other. She held out her hand.
Draco sat back and grinned. Hermione never ceased to amaze him; she was such a class act, being this cordial to these jerks after knowing about what they thought of her relationship with Draco.
This totally threw off Blaise and Theo. Blaise stammered out a response. "I've been doing well, thanks. It's nice to see you. I'll let you and Draco enjoy your evening," he said as he quickly shook her hand.
Theo gave a small smile. "Been just dandy, thanks. Uh yeah, like Blaise said, we'll let you enjoy your evening." He also quickly shook Hermione's hand and nodded to Draco before they went off to the bar.
Draco watched them walk away and turned to Hermione as she sat down. "I do believe you've tongue-tied those two dunderheads. Thank you for not telling them off after what I told you. You are quite a lady Hermione."
"Why thank you Mr. Malfoy. What do you say we get out of here? I think we've made enough of an impression for the night. The tongues are wagging," Hermione replied as she motioned with her head towards the bar. Sure enough there was Blaise and Theo looking at them and whispering, along with Lavender and Pavarti sneaking looks towards their table every so often.
"I couldn't agree more Ms. Granger. After you," Draco said as he stood and waited for Hermione. Draco left money on the table to settle their bill and a generous tip for the waitress. He followed Hermione out as they made their way through the crowd. When they were outside of The Leaky Cauldron, she turned to him and smiled as she hugged him.
"That wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be. I'm glad we came here. Oh Draco look, the snow if really coming down now," she said happily as she looked up towards the sky.
"I'm glad too love," Draco replied as he smiled down at her. Merlin, he loved this witch. He pulled her to him and kissed her again. When they came up for air, Draco took a deep breath. "I love you Hermione."
Hermione's breath caught when she heard this. As he looked at her, waiting for her response to this declaration, she looked into his eyes. "I love you Draco."
Draco grabbed her hand in his and they went to the nearest floo network. Within seconds, they were back at his apartment. Hermione was shaking the snowflakes out of her hair when Draco began to hungrily assault her lips. She responded and they began to undress each other. When their clothes were shed, Draco picked her up and brought her to his bedroom. They fell onto his bed and continued to kiss fervently, as if they couldn't get enough of each other. Draco was on top of her, but then he rolled them over so that she was on top. He wanted Hermione's breasts to hang in his face. She squealed as he abruptly sat up and buried his face in her bosom, gasping as he lightly suckled her erect nipples. Wanting him inside of her, Hermione slowly lowered herself onto him. They moved slowly as she buried his face in his neck and his hands moved down to grasp her hips. After a few minutes of this, Draco turned them over and began to pump furiously as Hermione wrapped her legs around his waist and pushed up against him, meeting him with every thrust. She started to feel the now familiar warmth spreading through her lower half and it wasn't long before she reached her peak. Not long after feeling her inner walls tighten around him, Draco couldn't hold back and groaned out her name as he came. Before slipping out of her, he kissed her. As they came down from this intense sexual experience, Draco pulled Hermione to him so that her head was resting on his chance.
"That was incredible babe," he said as he kissed the top of her head.
Hermione smiled and picked her head up to face him. "It always is with you. I love you Draco."
Draco found he was getting aroused again as he heard those words. "I love you too Hermione, more than you'll ever know. Come here."
This time as they made love, it was done in a languid manner. They kissed and caressed every part of each other's bodies, as they continued to declare their love. Draco and Hermione had reached a new level and were now committed to each other.
Later as she lay in his arms and was drifting off to sleep, Hermione thought about everything that had transpired in the last day or so. She was now sure that she had made the right decision to trust Draco and let him stay in her life. She thought about Ginny's warning about Draco, but Hermione brushed this thought aside. Draco loved her and that was all she needed to know.
Again, I apologize for the delay. Still debating where I'm taking this one. I want Dramione to be happy, but I also love drama!
I am finally done with the spring semester and I'm only taking one class this summer. I plan on finishing Run and I have another story idea brewing in my head. Thank you for reading this story and I hope you enjoy the update! As always, I appreciate all of the alerts and reviews.