LADY MALFOY
Disclaimer: Harry Potter and everything related belongs to J. K. Rowling. And the places I mention, in the story do not belong to me.
Author's note: Kudos to Phoenix Soar for her incredible patience while beta-ing this particular chapter!!!
Also, Thank you so much for your reviews, guys. I absolutely loved them!!!
The idea of white peacock is nothing new. In the very first chapter of Deathly Hallows, Snape and Yaxley are startled at the sight of the white peacock in the Malfoy Manor gardens.
Guesses you made about the Draco's past were pretty good; anyway you will know the true now!!!
I won't keep you waiting any longer. Enjoy!!!
Warnings: AU, NON-MAGIC. Harry is a female. You will find swear words but quite seldom. This chapter is particularly rated M because it contains some violence, slight sexual situation and angst. I will add further warnings as story progresses.
Chapter 13: Boy's ordeal
"I want to know what happened twelve years ago!" Harriet said with a determined look in her eyes.
Alexandra, who was reading a book in the drawing room, stared at Harriet for several moments before saying with a sigh, "Sit down."
Harriet took a seat on the sofa and intently watched Alexandra.
With another sigh, Alexandra stood up and walked up to the window overlooking the green pastures.
"My husband was very fond of Lucius. I daresay he loved his son more than his daughters. I believe a part of the reason was that Lucius was his designated heir. So long as he lived, my husband spoilt Lucius by giving into his every whim and desire, causing him to grow up proud and arrogant. I tried to prevent such qualities in him as much as I could, but he slowly slipped out of my grasp when he started at Eton at the age of thirteen. Lucius could not take anyone questioning his authority and he went to any length to prove it. He was too proud to recognise that as a weakness that many took advantage of. Most specifically his wife," Alexandra said, her tone regretful.
"After finishing his education at Oxford, Lucius decided to stay in London instead of returning to Tisbury. My husband had no qualms about it. In fact, he encouraged it, stating that Lucius could make prominent connections while living in town."
"When he was twenty-six, Lucius wrote a letter to us admitting that he had fallen in love with a young woman named Narcissa Black and that he ardently wished to marry her. My husband was a smart man; he made inquiries about the Black family before sending a reply to Lucius. Enquiries revealed several reports of nasty disposition of Narcissa and her mother and elder sister, Bellatrix, towards their inferiors. But my husband did not care; while I had my misgivings, he was satisfied with their wealth, rank and social connections. Immediately, he gave his permission to Lucius to marry her," Alexandra said with a sigh.
Harriet was intently listening to her.
"After marriage, Lucius and Narcissa came to live at the Manor, but unlike Draco, Lucius did not receive the Lordship after marriage. My husband held the title till his death. When Draco was ten years old, my husband fell terribly ill and no amount of medicine worked. He did not survive his sickness for more than a couple of months and I was heartbroken." Here, Alexandra's voice trembled with sadness and pain. Harriet watched her in concern.
Composing herself a moment later, Alexandra continued in a steady tone.
"After declaring Lucius as the new Lord Malfoy and transferring the responsibilities of businesses and family to him, I retreated to my Father's house in Aberdeen Shire, Scotland. For the next five years, I received regular letters and occasional visits from my children, but the truth was that I no more cared for their well-being or the outside world, having convinced myself that they were grown up enough to not need my guidance. Victoria and Elizabeth, as well as Lucius, were married and were settled happily with their respective spouses and children."
"What a mistake it was!" Alexandra laughed depreciatingly.
"I realized that I made the biggest mistake of my life when I received a letter one summer morning. I was shocked in disbelief at first, in denial, horrified and then furious. I set out for Wiltshire, immediately. Draco was fifteen then."
Pausing for a moment, she looked thoughtfully at Harriet. "Perhaps you would like to hear it from the eye-witness and the letter-writer himself," Alexandra mused out loud.
Dazed, Harriet could only nod. Alexandra rang the bell.
When the butler arrived, Alexandra said without preamble, "Francis, Harriet is interested in knowing the events that transpired in the five years of my absence up until the time you wrote me the letter."
For a short second, Francis' eyes widened before he composed himself, "But Lord Malfoy ...?" he trailed off.
"Harriet is not only his wife, but also Lady Malfoy. She has the right to know," Alexandra said gently.
Francis reluctantly nodded.
"I want you to give her an honest account, Francis. I assure you that none of us will take offence," she added.
FLASH BACK
It had been a year since Lucius had received his Lordship. Lucius was sitting in his study, perusing the documents spread on the table in front of him when Narcissa, dressed in a pale pink silk nightgown, seductively walked in.
"Hello, darling," Narcissa purred.
Grunting in reply with a quick glance in her direction, Lucius turned his attention back to the papers. Narcissa frowned in irritation. Walking up to the back of his high-backed chair, Narcissa placed both of her palms on his shoulders. "Darling, you are awfully tense," she said concernedly, gently applying pressure on them.
Closing his eyes for a second, Lucius moaned appreciatively before getting back to studying the papers. Lucius growled in frustration as he stared at them.
"Beloved, tell me what is wrong," Narcissa purred again, placing feather-light kisses on the nape of his neck.
Gesturing at the papers, Lucius growled, "Do you know what these are? They are annual reports of our business profits and they show a decline of more than 4% in this year's profit."
"Maybe it is a onetime thing. You know that the market never remains the same. The profits will surely increase next year," Narcissa cajoled him.
"No, that is not the case. Our factories have always maintained a minimum percentage of profit. Anything less than that is a cause for concern," Lucius admitted in agitation. "I have inquired the head of every damn section in the factories again and again. But they all maintain that they have done their tasks efficiently."
"I can't figure out where the mistake was made. I have made no major changes in the business methods since I took control. Then, I don't understand what could have caused this!" Lucius spat angrily before closing his eyes to calm himself.
Continuing to knead his tense shoulders, Narcissa gazed thoughtfully at him, her light blue eyes narrowed into slits.
After several moments of silence, Narcissa eased herself slowly into Lucius's lap. Running her finger lightly down his muscled chest, she said slowly and calmly, "Darling, what does the coachman do when he wants his horse to pick up the speed?" Ignoring the confused look he directed at her, she continued, "What does the farmer do when the bulls do not follow his directions?"
Understanding, Lucius' grey eyes widened as he stared at Narcissa in disbelief. "You want me to use physical force upon the workers?" he asked sceptically.
"Sometimes, it is necessary to change the stubborn and lazy beings since it is quite obvious that they are all lying. It was their slacking that has caused us the loss of profits. Don't you think they should be punished for their impertinence towards their employer?" Narcissa asked him.
Tightening his jaw, Lucius gazed pensively into the distance.
Thus began the reign of terror in the Malfoy establishments. Servants and workers were inflicted with physical torture for the slightest infraction. Within the end of the first month, the workers in the factory were made to work to their bone on measly wages and with shorter breaks. A few hulking men were hired to monitor the workers and dispatch the punishments. Despite the hard and fear filled hours of work, employees continued at Malfoy factories having no other means of earning their living.
The servants at the Manor had it a little better than the factory workers even though they did not escape the occasional punishment.
By the end of the year, Lucius highly praised Narcissa for her ingenious plan, declaring that the profits have picked up.
The news of the atrocious methods used by the Malfoys quickly spread in different circles all around Wiltshire. Since the Malfoys were considered the wealthiest and most powerful family in the county, no one dared to raise their voices against their practices even though they found them barbaric. Even the authorities turned a blind eye on their transgressions. Seeing this, some ardent followers and acquaintances of the Malfoys started practising the same methods.
Lucius Malfoy performed the business dealings with the same ruthlessness. The partners and associates simply gave into his demands out of sheer fear.
But, for the following five years, the lower class people working in the factories and mills suffered the most.
Draco had returned to Tisbury only two days ago for the summer vacations. Yesterday, he had received a letter from his childhood friend, Blaise Zabini, inviting him to ride around exploring the county. Next morning, Draco, dressed in his riding clothes, entered the morning room to find his parents entertaining guests. Getting a closer look at the guests, Draco's face tightened.
"Draco, you ought to remember Mr. Thomas Riddle. You met him a couple of years ago at my Father's house in London," Narcissa said with a bright smile, being the first to notice Draco standing in the doorway.
Everyone's eyes turned to his standing form.
"Yes," Draco drawled coldly.
"And this is his assistant, Mr. Peter Pettigrew," she added, gesturing to a short, plump, mousy-faced, bald man.
"I see."
Lucius frowned at his lack of proper greeting.
"Hello, Master Draco," Pettigrew simpered. Draco's face twisted in a grimace at the sight of his front two overly large yellow teeth.
"Draco, how you have grown since I last you," Riddle remarked pleasantly, though his dark eyes held a cold, calculating look. "Your mother says you have been attending Eton for the last two years. How are your studies coming along?"
"Fine."
"Mr. Riddle and your father are collaborating for a partnership in building a large factory in England that would produce ammunition," Narcissa told him proudly. "Such a brilliant idea was of Mr. Riddle, of course."
"Why?" Draco asked, in same cold tone.
"Why?" Riddle repeated, staring at him incredulously. "With the sure talks of upcoming war, can't you see that business such as this would bring us enormous profits?
"I accept that you are still very young and naïve, but doesn't your acquaintances in Eton ever discuss current events and political scenarios?" he added as an afterthought.
"Yes, but we prefer to discuss much more pleasant topics than wars," Draco replied icily.
"Ah, of course," Riddle said with a wink. A girly squeal like laughter escaped from Pettigrew's mouth.
Disgusted, "Excuse me, I am running late for a meeting with my friend, Zabini," Draco said before striding out of the room.
"Ah, the excitement of teenage life," Pettigrew commented with a laugh, but abruptly stopped at the look Riddle gave him.
"He certainly inherited your looks, Malfoy. I hope he also develops your business mind," Tom said, turning to Lucius.
"He will," Lucius assured him.
Later that night, Lucius and Narcissa, along with their two guests, were impatiently waiting at the dinner table for the arrival of Draco.
Instead of Draco, a maid in her mid-twenties entered the dining room and bowed.
"Where is Master Draco, Anna?" Narcissa asked impatiently.
"Madam, Master Draco just sent a message saying that he would dine at the Zabinis' tonight and that he might arrive a little late," Anna answered.
"Leave!" Narcissa snapped in anger.
Lucius' nostrils flared in anger at Draco's impertinence towards their guests.
With an apologetic smile on her charming face, Narcissa turned to Riddle and said, "I apologise for Draco's behaviour, Mr. Riddle. He has been acting rather rebellious as of late. Please let us enjoy this fine meal."
"A little arrogance is expected of boys from a wealthy family, but imprudence is unbecoming for a designated heir," Riddle said coldly, digging into the food on his plate.
Narcissa's face turned red in shame and embarrassment while Lucius clenched his fork tightly.
After dinner, Lucius and Narcissa entertained their guests in the drawing room with exquisite wine and music melodies (Narcissa played on their beautiful pianoforte). Around ten, they decided to retire. Draco still had not returned.
Lucius left for the Master suite while Narcissa graciously took up the duty of guiding their guests to their rooms.
After showing Pettigrew to his room first, Narcissa walked Riddle to the most beautiful and largest guest room in the Manor.
"Narcissa, while your husband will be occupied with you tonight, how do you suppose I should entertain myself?" Riddle purred, his voice slurry from the excessive alcohol intake, when they reached the room.
Narcissa raised a sculpted brow at him before smirking widely.
"I will arrange for it," Narcissa said, leaving him after dropping a curtsy.
"Clever woman," Riddle muttered with a smirk, staggering into the guest room.
Entering the servants' hall where they were just finishing their dinner, "Anna, go see if our esteemed guest, Mr. Riddle, is in need of anything," Narcissa ordered sharply.
Narcissa had not missed the lustful gazes Riddle had directed at Anna since his arrival at the Malfoy Manor. She thought Anna was a lucky woman for having caught the eye of the handsome and powerful Thomas Riddle. Narcissa was glad she had someone ready at the Manor to entertain him for the night.
When Anna hesitated, "Well, what are you waiting for?" Narcissa snapped sharply.
Startled, Anna quickly left to follow her orders.
Upon arriving, Anna knocked on the door and entered after receiving permission. Looking at the tall, black-haired man in his early fifties standing by the fireplace with a glass of wine in his hand, Anna asked, "Sir, could I help you with anything?"
"Yes, I want to get out of these clothes," Riddle slurred, gesturing at his formal wear.
Colouring in mortification, Anna replied, "Oh, I will send Marcus or Henry here, sir," turning to leave.
"Why?" Riddle asked, halting her in the tracks. "Can't you do it? Get me out these clothes, now!" he said in a cold and commanding tone.
Embarrassed and a bit fearful, Anna walked up to him in trepidation. Slowly approaching him, Anna crouched down to remove his black leather boots. As Anna worked on them, Riddle slowly grazed his upper lip with the tip of his tongue as he lustfully stared at the sight of her exposed cleavage. He caused her some difficulty by reluctantly lifting his leg up, not wanting to lose the ravishing view. After the shoes, she removed the socks upon his order. Next came off his coat and necktie. Internally sighing in relief as she removed his waistcoat, Anna decided to make a quick escape. She felt insecure at the vibes she felt coming from the man along with his intent gaze.
"Good night, then, sir," Anna said, turning quickly away to leave.
But before she could escape, Riddle caught both her arms with his hands and pulled her closer to his body.
"And where do you think you are going? I do not remember giving you permission to leave," Riddle drawled in her ear, deeply breathing in the coconut fragrance of her dark blond hair.
Seriously panicked, Anna turned pale and struggled get away from his grip which tightened further.
"Sir, please let me go," Anna pleaded, continuing to struggle.
Ignoring her words, Riddle dragged her towards the large bed and unceremoniously dropped her on it.
"Stop, please stop. Don't do this, sir!" Anna pleaded, teary-eyed, quickly backing away from him. But before she could reach the edge of the other side of the bed, Riddle grabbed around her midriff and dragged her closer to him.
"Ahhhhh … no, stop! PLEASE STOP!" Anna cried as he straddled her and started rubbing his hard erection against her. Her attempts to dislodge him off her lap turned out to be futile as he was a lot stronger and heavier than her.
"You should consider yourself fortunate that Mr. Riddle has bestowed his attention on you. Not to worry, your Mistress will reward you generously if you succeed in pleasuring me tonight," Riddle smirked huskily, his dark eyes glazed over with lust as he tore her dress off her shoulders and bosom, exposing her corset and petticoat.
"NO, SIR, PLEASE STOP! I BEG YOU, PLEASE LET ME GO!!!" Anna shrieked, tears running down her flushed cheeks unchecked into her hair as she desperately tried to stop his hands from pulling off her corset. Ignoring her words, Riddle savagely attacked her cleavage while grabbing and squeezing her breasts through the corset.
"AHHH ... NO ... NO ... STOP!" Anna choked on a loud sob, pushing against his muscular chest. But Riddle wouldn't budge.
"YOU FILTHY BEAST!" Draco bellowed, who was standing at the doorway.
At his voice, Riddle looked up and spun around to face him. "Ah, Draco, have you come to join in on the fun?"
Draco's expression hardened, his eyes flared in molten silver and his entire being filled with absolute rage.
"GET AWAY FROM HER!"
Striding over to the bed, Draco viciously pulled Riddle away from Anna and forcefully swung his fist into Riddle's jaw. With an outraged growl, Riddle launched himself at him, but Draco simply moved away from his path, causing Riddle to stumble forward. In his inebriated state, Riddle lost his balance and fell, hitting his forehead on the sharp edge of the curved leg of the bed in the process and collapsing in a dead faint.
Panting breathlessly, Draco stared down at the unmoving form of Riddle for a moment before turning to look at Anna who was sobbing uncontrollably, still sitting on the bed.
Walking around the bed, Draco quickly grabbed the blanket and covered her half naked body with it.
Gently pulling Anna off the bed, "Shh ... you are fine now; come with me," Draco consoled her, putting his arm around her trembling shoulders and leading her towards the door.
Just as they walked out of the room, they encountered a man. Draco paled while the grief-stricken Anna failed to the notice the person as she intently stared at the ground, tears spilling down onto the floor.
Gazing at them blankly for a moment, the man asked, "How can I help, Master Draco?"
Sighing in relief, Draco thought for a moment about the next course of action. Francis watched as several conflicting thoughts crossed Draco's face until he tightened his jaw in determination.
"Francis, go to the kitchen and pack some bread, fruit and wine and bring it to my room," Draco ordered. Leading Anna away, Draco added, "Be discreet."
Nodding in understanding, Francis walked away in the direction of the kitchen.
Pulling the stock-still Anna quickly but quietly into his rooms, Draco left her standing in the middle of the room. Jerking his wardrobe open, Draco grabbed his clothes and walked back to Anna.
"Here, change into these in the dressing room," Draco said, placing his clothes in her hands.
When she turned her red-rimmed eyes on him with her brows furrowed sceptically, "Go on," he gently urged.
While Anna left to change into his clothes, Draco grabbed few more and piled them on his bed. Grabbing his leather bag, he haphazardly pushed the clothes in it. When Francis returned with food, Draco pushed those, too, into the bag.
When Anna returned dressed, Draco looked her up and down in wonder. Relieved that his clothes fit her properly, Draco said, handing her a hat, "Tie your hair at the top of your head and put this on."
When Anna was done, "Well, this is as good as we can hope for," Draco sighed. Francis nodded in agreement. In Draco's clothes and hat on, Anna looked like an effeminate man.
Shaking his head at her tear stained face, Draco suggested her to clean up in his bathroom.
A couple of minutes later, Anna returned, looking a little better.
"Anna, you have to leave Wiltshire." Before she could interrupt, he continued, "I know you never went anywhere all alone, but this time you have to brave yourself. My parents, with their connections, can find you no matter where you hide in Wiltshire. When they do, they will kill you. Even if they leave you alone, it will be impossible for you to get work here anyway. You must get away. Go to London. In fact …" Draco trailed off, racing to his study table.
Quickly, he wrote two letters and handed them to Anna. "The first letter is to Blaise; go to the Zabini's house and give this to him. I have requested him to take you to my cousin Sirius' house this very night. The second letter is to Sirius. Upon reaching his house, give him this letter. He will understand the situation and help you to the best of his abilities. I am certain you will be safe with him. Do you understand, Anna?"
Dazed, Anna nodded, staring wide-eyed at Draco.
"Here, take this," Draco said, handing a heavy satin pouch filled with coins.
"I can't take this," Anna argued, shaking her head frantically and trying to hand back the pouch.
"No, you will have to. You will need it for travelling and for food. I don't think that food in the bag will last much long," Draco said firmly.
Crying softly, Anna nodded and pushed the pouch into the back pocket of her waistcoat. "Be discreet when taking out the money. Don't display the pouch to others' eyes," Francis advised her.
Nodding, Draco added, "Hopefully, your attire will keep unwanted attention away."
Finally, Draco led Anna to the stables with Francis leading them to avoid detection.
Reaching the stables, Draco loosened the ropes on his horse and brought it out of the stall. "Take Firebolt with you," Draco said, handing the reins to the softly crying Anna.
"But Master Draco, he is your horse," Anna argued in despair.
"Yes and he is the only one I would trust to ensure your safety," Draco said softly, averting his eyes.
With a loud sob, Anna kissed his cheek and said, "I will miss you, Draco." His breath hitched and he stared at her in utter astonishment.
After a pause, she asked worriedly, throwing a fearful glance at the building, "What about you? Won't they be livid with you when they find out?"
"Don't worry about me. I am their only son and they won't hurt me," Draco said confidently. "But you should leave."
When her tear-filled eyes continued to look concerned, Draco assured her, "I will be fine. Go."
His grey eyes were bright with unshed tears as Draco watched Anna ride off into the night, never to return to Malfoy Manor. A lone tear fell onto his pale cheek as he closed his eyes in sorrow.
All night, Draco tossed and turned restlessly on his bed as his thoughts strayed between his parents' reaction and Anna's safety during the late night journey to town.
Next morning, Pettigrew rose early as always. Freshening up, Peter walked to Mr. Riddle's room to wake him, as was his duty.
When Mr. Riddle did not answer after several knocks, Pettigrew frowned and, after some debate, he opened the door and walked inside without permission.
"Jesus Christ!" Pettigrew cried, immediately noticing his master lying sprawled face first on the carpeted floor beside the bed.
After some hesitation, Pettigrew drew the courage to walk up to the man and turned him around.
Pettigrew sighed in relief at the sound of soft snores escaping from Riddle's mouth. But noticing bruises across his jaw and forehead, Pettigrew's eyes widened in alarm.
Standing up, Pettigrew raced to the Master suite as fast as his podgy legs could carry. Reaching the Lord's bedchambers, Pettigrew knocked on the door noisily and urgently.
Suddenly, the doors were pulled open. "What is this racket? Who dare …?" Lucius' snarl trailed off at the sight of the panic-stricken Pettigrew. "Mr. Pettigrew?"
"Lord Malfoy, my Master has been attacked! He is lying unconscious on the floor in his rooms!" Pettigrew cried dramatically.
"What?" came from Narcissa, who had just come and stood behind Lucius, whose eyes widened in disbelief.
"It is true! Come with me and see for yourself," Pettigrew urged them.
Immediately, Lucius and Narcissa rushed towards Riddle's room with Pettigrew in the lead.
"Oh my!" Narcissa gasped loudly at the sight of Riddle when they reached the guestroom.
"Damn!" Cursing loudly, Lucius crouched down and checked Riddle's pulse. Lucius internally sighed in relief after finding a steady heartbeat. Then, lifting the man in his arms, Lucius carried him to the bed and gently laid him on it.
"Narcissa, fetch me some water!" Lucius ordered as he checked his wounds whereas Pettigrew stood at the background, moaning non-stop in his squeaky voice, 'Oh Master', 'Poor master' and 'I will avenge those who dared to raise their hand on you'.
Narcissa immediately handed him a glass of water. Spraying some water on Riddle's face, Lucius continuously tapped on his check to revive him.
Lucius stopped when a loud pain-filled moan escaped from Riddle. Sighing loudly, "Mr. Riddle, wake up," Lucius called expectantly.
Moaning for a moment, Riddle slowly opened his eyes, watching the blurry forms of Lucius and Narcissa, with his face scrunched in pain. Suddenly, green tinged his pale face; Riddle urgently turned his head away and heaved over the pillows and sheets.
Narcissa moved away, repulsed at the stench, while Lucius grimaced in disgust at the sight of the vomit-covered bed. Getting away from the bed himself, Lucius turned to face Pettigrew, "Mr. Pettigrew, assist Mr. Riddle to this glass of water," extending the glass to him.
Frowning at Lucius, Pettigrew took the glass and helped Riddle drink.
Relieved that Riddle was now awake, Lucius' entire being filled with rage. Purposefully marching towards the table, Lucius loudly rang the bell to summon the servant.
Not two minutes, Francis arrived and acted startled at the sight of the beaten guest.
"Francis, who did this to Mr. Riddle?" Lucius barked, fury on his face.
"I have no idea, sir," Francis answered innocently.
"It is your duty to check the corridors and rooms and lock the doors at night. Are you telling me that you saw no one enter these rooms?" Lucius sneered, his tone cold.
"No, sir, I did not notice anyone entering these rooms on my last patrol," Francis replied calmly.
"What about Anna? Where is she?" Narcissa asked sharply, her eyes narrowed into slits.
Lucius frowned in confusion at her question.
"I did not see her since our dinner last night and I could not find her this morning," Francis lied smoothly.
Narcissa's eyes widened, which further confused Lucius.
"Narcissa, you don't think that little woman has caused this much damaged to Mr. Riddle, do you?" Lucius asked sarcastically.
"It was your son, Malfoy," came the hoarse voice of Riddle. When the others turned to face Riddle in confusion and disbelief, he repeated, "Your beloved son is responsible for my state." His chilly voice sent shivers through the others.
Horrified, both Lucius and Narcissa paled considerably while Pettigrew gaped foolishly.
"Mr. Riddle, you must be mistaken. My son would never …" Lucius trailed off at the sound of the terrific growl that escaped Riddle who was now sitting on the bed, facing them.
"You dare call me a liar, Malfoy," Riddle hissed, shaking with suppressed rage.
"No, Mr. Riddle. I would never," Lucius hastily denied while Narcissa vigorously nodded her head.
Straightening up, Riddle slowly walked to the mirror and coolly checked his wounds on his jaw and forehead.
"I will call for Dr. Derwent immediately. He will …" Narcissa trailed off, watching worriedly as Riddle raised his hand, cutting her off.
Turning around, Riddle fixed his cold gaze on Lucius, "Malfoy, I did not offer you this business proposition because I lack wealthy acquaintances that would be interested in such a project. I did it because I thought our ambitions matched," Riddle said calmly.
"And this is the treatment I get for honouring you with my presence at your house. Physically assaulted by your own son. I could lodge a complaint against him with the authorities!" he added icily.
"Mr. Riddle, we apologise for our son's actions. I am sure he is regretful and is anxious and eager to beg for your forgiveness. I will send for him immediately," Narcissa said, looking expectantly at Riddle.
Snorting loudly in contempt, Riddle sneered, "He is not the least bit remorseful and I don't care for his apologies. Pettigrew, pack our belongings. We are leaving immediately!"
Pettigrew jumped to follow his orders.
"Please Mr. Riddle, give us a chance to rectify our mistakes. Please stay. Draco will apologise to you. I will personally make sure of this," Lucius pleaded for the first time in his life.
"Your son, Malfoy, has behaved most disrespectfully since our arrival and not once have I seen either of you take him to task. And I have no tolerance for such overly spoilt boys," Riddle said coldly.
When Pettigrew arrived with their luggage, "This is not the last you would hear of me, Malfoy. I think it is my civic duty to inform the elite society about your gracious hospitality. Let us see how they feel about it. Your son will receive no forgiveness from me and your family will pay the consequences; a very high price indeed!" Riddle spat nastily before swiftly leaving with Pettigrew scrambling behind him. Lucius and Narcissa did not miss the warning in his words.
Recovering from the shock, Lucius' face turned red with incredible fury and he determinedly strode out of the room. A shiver of fear ran through Francis at the thought of Lucius' wrath.
Approaching the room, Lucius slammed the doors open with a snarl, "DRACO!"
Draco, who had finally fallen asleep a couple of hours ago, woke up in alarm. He paled at the sight of the raging Lucius standing in the middle of his room.
"HOW DARE YOU MISTREAT OUR GUEST? How dare you attack Mr. Riddle? Because of you, we lost a business opportunity worth hundreds of thousands of pounds, and possibly our reputation. Your impertinence caused us an important partnership with Mr. Riddle! Since his arrival, you have been nothing but rude despite the fact that we told you how crucial this acquaintanceship was to us!" Lucius roared at the now standing Draco.
"For a good reason, Father! Do you know what THAT BASTARD DID? He ..." Draco cut himself off with a gasp when Lucius suddenly launched forward at him, roughly grabbing his collar and pulling him closer.
"I don't care what he did. But you will watch yourself, Draco. I repeatedly told you playing pranks is unbecoming for an heir of the Malfoy family; that such activity will not be tolerated in elite society and at the respectable institution of Eton before you left for your first year. Yet, I received numerous complaints from your Headmaster regarding your uncontrollable behaviour in the last two years!" Lucius said with his lips curled in a cold sneer.
"I told you hundred times not to associate with those of inferior birth such as that Zabini boy. Yet, you continue to disobey me!" Lucius spat, his face twisted in a vicious snarl.
"Apparently, none of my verbal lessons seem to make much impact on your thick skull. I think all the leverage and independence I have given you has gone to your head. Not anymore. It is time you learnt some discipline!" Lucius hissed dangerously, glaring at Draco.
For the first time in his life, Draco was truly scared of his father as he noticed the maniacal glint in his cold eyes. He watched in wide-eyed horror as Lucius raised his walking stick and struck him in a flash. The blow landed with such an enormous force that Draco crashed to the floor with a painful cry.
Not giving a chance to Draco to make an escape, Lucius, with murderous rage, whipped the wooden cane, with the silver handle curved in the shape of an open-mouthed snake, at him again and again. Not wanting to display any vulnerability, Draco gritted his teeth to stop the painful moans from escaping his mouth. But his resolve broke soon as Lucius, breathlessly panting, continued to hit, ignoring his son's pleas to stop. Despite the heavy oak doors, Draco's loud, pain-filled cries rang through the entire Manor, sending tremors through the rest of its occupants.
"From this day forward, you will cease your ill-behaved ways!" …. whip …. "And cut off your associations with lower class brats!" … whip …. "You will obey me and your mother without question!" … whip ... "And behave like a proper heir!"
Finally, after what seemed like forever, Lucius stopped.
"You better behave yourself, Draco!" With that, Lucius strode out of the room, leaving his beaten, bloodied and painfully moaning son, lying curled up on the carpet.
Ignoring the presence of Narcissa and the pale-faced Francis outside the door, Lucius swiftly left to the Master's wing.
"Francis, Master Draco is not to receive water, food or medical treatment until he apologises to his father and I regarding his despicable manners, and promises never to interfere in our affairs," Narcissa said coldly.
"Let it be known that anyone helping him will receive the same treatment and immediate dismissal along with the label of an ill-mannered servant," she added warningly before following Lucius' without bothering to check on her son's condition.
Francis' expression hardened, "I might not be able to help you, Master Draco, but I will bring in the person who can," he vowed with determination before walking away.
Not wasting a single minute, Francis quickly dashed a letter and paid the postman an extra blunt from his own pocket to get the letter to the person as soon as possible. Now, all that remained was the anxious wait.
On the third morning following the ordeal, a screech of "LUCIUS ABRAXAS MALFOY!" echoed through the quiet halls of the Manor, startling its occupants.
Hearing this, Lucius and Narcissa rushed to the foyer to find Alexandra Malfoy, looking like a vengeful angel, standing there with Dr. Derwent.
"Mother, what are doing here?" Lucius frowned.
Ignoring him, Alexandra faced the relieved-looking Francis standing behind Lucius and Narcissa. "Francis, escort Ethan to Draco's rooms. I will be there shortly," she ordered.
Nodding, Francis politely gestured to the physician to follow him.
But before they could disappear, Narcissa said, "Stop right there, Francis. What did I ..."
SLAP
Narcissa stood clutching her rapidly reddening cheek while Lucius watched his mother in utter shock.
END OF FLASHBACK
Harriet listened with tears falling freely from her emerald eyes as he ended his monologue.
Next, Alexandra picked up the narration.
FLASHBACK
Ignoring their expressions, Alexandra climbed the stairs at a speed surprising for a woman of two and sixty years, this time leading Francis and Dr. Derwent.
Entering the rooms, the two of them blanched at the sight of the bloodied Draco lying unconscious on the bed. On close proximity, one could feel the heat emitting from Draco's body.
Quickly walking towards the windows, Francis opened the curtains to permeate the warm sunlight and fresh air into the room.
Approaching the bed, Ethan scrutinised Draco's body while Alexandra's eyes filled with tears as she stared at the broken and lightly shaking form of her beloved grandson.
"He has a high fever. His wounds need to be cleaned properly before I can treat him," Ethan told her. Turning to Francis, he said, "Please arrange for lukewarm water and clean towels," and then, gesturing to the sheets stained with sweat and blood smears, he added, "Also, his clothes and bed sheets need be changed."
Francis nodded before rushing out of the room. Within ten minutes, he had returned with Marie, carrying towels and a dish.
After Francis removed Draco's clothes, Marie gently cleaned the blood caked on the wounds with the wet towels. When she was finished, Francis carefully picked Draco in his arms, mindful of his injuries and lifted him. Marie quickly changed the bed sheets.
Gently, Francis laid Draco on the clean bed and covered his naked lower half with a blanket. After he moved away, Ethan took his time, carefully checking Draco's wounds, body temperature and heartbeat. Alexandra watched the proceedings with her face etched with worry and anxiousness.
Finishing the check-up, Dr. Derwent said grimly, "That was a close call." Explaining Draco's condition further, Derwent wrote a prescription and handed to it Alexandra.
"Arrange for those medicines immediately as they have to be administered right away. I will personally monitor his condition for the next couple of days," Derwent said plaintively.
Nodding in understanding, Alexandra handed the prescription to Francis who left immediately. "I will arrange for your stay and send for your belongings."
"Won't Draco need to eat something before he takes medicine?" Alexandra queried before sending Marie off.
"Yes, but," Ethan said and then, facing Marie, he asked, "Has he really not eaten or drunk anything in the last three days?"
"No, sir," Marie answered sadly.
"Then we have no choice but to wait until he gains consciousness because his body will reject anything we force-feed him," Derwent said decidedly.
Sighing, Alexandra asked, "Would you care for some tea while we wait for the medicine to arrive?"
When Derwent nodded in acceptance, she dismissed the maid with an order for tea service.
Watching Draco sadly, Alexandra asked quietly, "He will recover perfectly, won't he, Ethan?"
Ethan didn't answer right away. "These kinds of incidents often leave physical and emotional scars," Dr. Derwent said carefully. Upon seeing the distressed look on Alexandra's face, he quickly added reassuringly, "But with time, love and affection, I am sure Draco will recover fully."
Other than to use bathroom, Alexandra stayed with Derwent the entire time, expectantly waiting for Draco's awakening. They even had their lunch served in Draco's rooms.
Around dusk, Draco groggily opened his eyes, whimpering in pain. Alexandra, who was sitting beside him on the bed, gently stroking his head, gasped loudly.
"Draco, darling?" Alexandra said, watching him expectantly with eyes filled with joyful tears.
Blinking several times, "Grandma?" Draco croaked with his brows furrowed.
"Yes, beloved. It is I."
"Grandma," Draco whispered with a small smile gracing his pale face. "You are really here."
"Yes, dearest. I am really here with you," Alexandra choked out tearfully.
"Good." Saying that, Draco closed his eyes again, fatigued, while silent tears slid from his eyes and escaped into his hair.
Ethan checked him again and happily declared that his fever had dropped. Urging Draco to stay awake, Alexandra gently coaxed some warm broth into him before giving him the medicine. Since all his injuries were on his abdomen, back and upper thighs, Draco had to lie on his left side so as not to suffer pain by irritating the healing wounds. Making sure that Draco had completely drifted back to sleep, Alexandra and Dr. Derwent left the room for dinner, leaving Francis to look after him.
When Alexandra and Derwent arrived at the dining room, Lucius was pacing anxiously in front of the fireplace while Narcissa sat stonily at the table.
Alexandra's blood boiled at the sight of her son and daughter-in-law. Alexandra purposefully occupied the chair at the head of the table while gesturing Derwent to take a seat to her left.
"Mother?" Lucius frowned.
When she ignored him, Lucius indicated Narcissa to vacate the seat that she occupied to the right of Alexandra, not wanting to argue in front of a guest. Throwing a glare at him, Narcissa moved away.
Dinner was a quiet and tense affair with Lucius anxiously watching his mother from the corner of his eye. When Lucius could no longer take the cold atmosphere, he spoke again, "How was your journey?"
Instead of answering his question, she faced Derwent and asked, "Ethan, what does your diagnosis say regarding Draco's condition?"
Derwent looked startled for a second before answering, "His skin is broken at several places, causing infection and, thus, resulting in high temperature. Delay in the treatment for another few hours would have, unfortunately, caused his death."
Hearing this, Lucius turned pale in alarm and glanced at a furious looking Alexandra who continued to ignore him.
"And what object do you suppose has caused such damage to my Grandson?" Alexandra asked tightly.
"No doubt, a wooden cane," Derwent answered promptly.
Finally turning to Lucius, "What do you say, Lucius? Someone had nearly killed your son, future Lord of our family. What action have you taken against the culprit? Nothing but a harsh punishment would satisfy you, I should think," Alexandra sneered coldly.
Lucius visibly blanched at his mother's hostility and did not reply. All the while Narcissa sat stonily without a single utter.
When dinner ended, both Alexandra and Derwent left without another word.
For the next two days, the atmosphere in the Manor remained quiet and tense. Alexandra refused to leave Draco's side, sleeping in his bed during the night, and Derwent made checkups every three hours.
As for Draco himself, he slowly started regaining strength with medicines, food and his grandmother's affection and support. Despite his progress, Alexandra was not satisfied. She had to witness and console him as Draco suffered through the violent nightmares. But she decided to be patient until Draco's recovery before distributing appropriate punishments to the culprits.
Speaking of culprits, Lucius spent the days worrying over his mother's reaction and the situation. He had never thought Draco was suffering so. He seriously believed that it was Draco's stubbornness that was keeping him in his room. As for Narcissa, she internally fumed at Alexandra for contesting their authority and actually having the audacity to raise a hand against her. No one, not even her parents, in her life had dared to do that. Narcissa was also furious at Lucius for being such a pansy and not taking his Mother to task for attacking her.
By the end of the week, Draco's injuries were healing nicely and he was able to move around the room. But he absolutely refused to step out of his rooms for the fear of encountering his parents. It was then that Alexandra decided that it was time.
The first task Alexandra took was to summon the heads of every section in the Malfoy factories, accountants and their family lawyer with an order to bring in all the files for the last five years. She also sent the warning that any person who disobeyed the order would find himself dismissed immediately.
Placing Francis as a guard to Draco's room and ordering him to not allow Draco's parents inside, Alexandra occupied the study room to undertake the inquiries.
Lucius was shocked and alarmed at the sight of his nervous looking employees, carrying ledger books, one morning in the Manor.
"Mother, what the hell is going on? What are they doing here?" Lucius demanded.
"Language, Lucius. They are going through a formal inquiry," Alexandra replied coolly.
"Lucius is the Lord of this family. You have no authority!" Narcissa snarled viciously.
Alexandra left the room saying, "Not for long, dear." Neither Lucius nor Narcissa missed the guarantee in her tone.
For the next couple of days, the Manor was flurried with employees undergoing thorough investigations. Alexandra also questioned servants at the Manor in private. All the while, Lucius could do nothing but watch helplessly as people scrambled to and fro from Alexandra's study.
Alexandra was dismayed as each interview revealed Lucius' discrepancies over the last five years.
The inquiries ended on the evening of the second day. After a few hours of deliberation, Alexandra summoned Lucius and Narcissa to the study.
Alexandra did not speak right away. Instead, she intently gazed at Lucius, who looked a little pale, and at Narcissa, who returned her gaze coldly.
Finally, when Alexandra opened her mouth, her voice was steady and calm, though her eyes revealed her barely suppressed rage, "Well Lucius, you seem to have forgotten the laws laid out by the Malfoy Forefathers that your Father taught while training you for the Lordship. Let me remind you of one in particular."
Before Lucius could open his mouth, Alexandra continued, raising her voice a little.
"One of your ancestors, Hadwyn Malfoy, was so much in love with his Lordship that he refused to part with it. His obsession made him kill every male child he sired, ignoring his wife's desperate pleas, for he was afraid that the boy would grow up and take away his Lordship. His insanity continued until his Father, Hagan Malfoy, came to know about it. Furious, he disinherited his son while Hadwyn's wife refused to live with a monster that would kill his own child and left him. Hagan then included the law that any Lord who intentionally tries to harm or sabotage the designated heir will lose his Lordship."
Lucius turned as white as a sheet before composing himself, "I wasn't trying to kill Draco. I was just trying to teach him discipline," Lucius insisted. "You can't seriously imply that I was trying to kill my own son!" he added in outrage.
"Since when did this family start using physical force to discipline the children?" Alexandra demanded angrily.
Shaking her head, Alexandra said in disappointment, "Lucius, I am no mind reader and I cannot take just your word about your true intention regarding your actions."
Lucius stared, shocked, at his mother.
"No, you dare use this as an excuse to regain the authority? You have no right to question how we treat our son!" Narcissa said shrilly.
Slamming her hand loudly on the tabletop, Alexandra stood up with her eyes blazing furiously. "Shut your dirty mouth, Narcissa. Do not force me to throw you out of this house!" Alexandra snarled dangerously.
Narcissa looked taken back.
"Unlike you, Lucius, I will give you a chance to explain your actions. Tell me what actions of Draco earned him such a harsh punishment?" Alexandra demanded, leaning close to him and staring him penetratingly in the eye.
"Despite my numerous warnings, Draco doesn't give up his mischievous ways. I have received several letters from his school, complaining about his pranks. He keeps disobeying me by associating with lower class brats. And last but not the least, he attacked a very important guest in our house," Lucius complained angrily.
"Pranks? Friends?" Alexandra repeated, staring incredulously at him.
"Of course, you will not see this as an offence. You always encouraged such associations," Lucius accused in disgust. "Draco assaulted a guest, Mother. Are you going to discard that too?"
"Have you asked Draco why he did it? Or do you consider your son such an uncontrollable beast who would attack just anybody without reason?" Alexandra demanded hotly.
"He attacked a guest, Mother!" Lucius repeated loudly. "Why does it matter why he did it?"
Shaking her head at Lucius' stupidity, Alexandra said, "Draco attacked your so-called guest to stop him from physically assaulting our ex-maid, Anna!"
Narcissa stiffened at that. She had managed keep the news of the runaway maid from Lucius for this long.
Frowning at his Mother, Lucius asked, "So? She was just a maid. I can't believe Draco was foolish enough to attack an honourable guest just for a filthy maid!"
SLAP
Lucius never in his life had expected his mother to raise a hand against him.
"I took a leaf out of your book," Alexandra spat at Lucius.
After a pause, "Let us talk about your so-called honourable guest," Alexandra sneered sarcastically. "Tom Riddle, yes? What exactly was that two-faced monster doing in the Manor?"
Coming out of the shock, "You know Mr. Riddle?" Lucius asked, frowning deeply. At the same time, "Mr. Riddle is a wealthy, titled, highly respected man!" Narcissa sniffed in outrage.
"Wealthy, titled, respected?" Alexandra laughed disparagingly. "Thomas Riddle is nothing but a poisonous viper who strikes when you least expect it. He hides his true nature behind the façade of handsome looks and pleasing manners. Lucius, you honestly didn't think that you were the first Malfoy he approached with his atrocious proposals masked behind the promises of attractive profits? What did he propose this time? But first, tell me, how did you meet him?" Alexandra questioned though she already knew the answer.
"Mr. Riddle is an honourable man. He has been doing business with my Father for several years!" Narcissa exclaimed indignantly.
"I see," Alexandra said through gritted teeth. "Lucius, I do hope you remember one other law in the Book of Malfoys that states that before the Lord undertakes a new partnership, he is to make a thorough background investigation of said partner. Or were you simply satisfied with your wife's partial account of Riddle?" Alexandra questioned with a smouldering glare.
Narcissa threw her a hateful glare.
Lucius' silence was answer enough for Alexandra.
Disappointed, Alexandra reoccupied her chair and rubbing her face in her hands, "Thomas Riddle was an illegitimate child of a wealthy merchant named Thomas Riddle Sr. He was, however, not a love child. His mother was madly in love with his Father and hence seduced him. Disgusted with her, Riddle Sr. refused to care for her or his son. Heartbroken, his mother died at childbirth, leaving Riddle Jr to grow up in poverty. Riddle Jr grew up to be a bitter man who despised all who are wealthy. His handsome looks and pleasing ways, however, attracted several wealthy women, young or old. At the age of 24, he married a rich woman, Hepzibah Smith. She was thrice his age. Six months later, she passed away under suspicious conditions, leaving everything to her husband. An investigation was done, but nothing came out of it. Since then Riddle studiously grew richer and elevated in the society ranks. What remained in the wraps was that each of his partners was left broken by the end of the contract. But none of them had concrete proof that it was Riddle's doing. It was during your stay at London before your marriage that Riddle approached your Father with a business proposal," she told them.
"I do not remember the details," she continued. "But your Father was impressed by the enthusiastic and charismatic young man. He was well into accepting his proposal when, luckily for us, Lord Elias Grimstone revealed how Riddle bamboozled his nephew of his wealth. Immediately, your Father ended the associations. He is rumoured to be involved in several illegal activities. The whole life of your so-called respectable guest is suspicious and questionable at its best!!" Alexandra said, glaring heatedly at a pale-faced Lucius.
Taking a deep breath, "From this day forward, You, Lucius Abraxas Malfoy, have lost the privilege of the Lordship of the Malfoy family," Alexandra declared finally.
"You can't do that, Mother!!" Lucius exclaimed in horror.
"I just did," Alexandra said plaintively. "You have proven yourself unworthy and incompetent as Lord Malfoy."
"Incompetent!" Lucius bellowed furiously.
"Six of our partners have broken long term business deals with us. Six, Lucius! A total of fifty-four workers have left our factories in the last five years. Your harsh punishments have landed eight men in bed for several months. How do you think they will feed their families now? Did you at least grant compensations to their families? No! Let's not even talk about the monetary losses. If this is not incompetence, I don't know what is!" Alexandra snarled.
"What would you know about business?" Narcissa scoffed condescendingly, "Ups and downs are part and parcel of any business."
Snorting loudly, "Clearly, more than your husband and you combined!" Alexandra sneered.
"And speaking of losses, what of Riddle's business deal are you both mourning about? Ammunitions? Lucius, have you completely lost your mind? Did it ever occur to you how this would affect Nathan's political career? His entire career would be ruined if word got out that his brother-in-law is involved in a weapon making business!"
But before Narcissa could open her mouth to argue, Alexandra continued, "Did you ever wonder why we own factories that produce simple and common products like silk, flour and paper? It was not because Riddle's brilliant ideals did not occur to your Forefathers. It was so because they wanted to avoid businesses that would most probably create disturbances, controversies and scandals for the family in the future."
Shaking her head in utter disappointment, Alexandra said in a firm tone, "You are no longer Lord Malfoy, Lucius."
"Mother, please, don't do this!" Lucius cried in distress.
"Be grateful that I did not disinherit you like Hagan Malfoy did to his son. Lucius, you have no right to ask for mercy when you showed none to Draco," Alexandra said grimly. "If you have behaved this cruelly towards your son, I shudder to think how you must have treated your servants and workers!"
Complete silence reigned as Lucius sat stock still on his chair.
"You and your wife will move away to France immediately to look after our wine yard business there. Your ship leaves the day after tomorrow, around noon from Brighton. You have enough time to prepare for the journey and travel there. Go make your arrangements," Alexandra with finally.
Before they could leave, Alexandra said dangerously, "Be warned, Lucius, I will disinherit you immediately if I hear a single word that you are employing your old methods in conducting business there. Also, you will not enter Wiltshire without my permission."
Defeated, "What about Draco?" Lucius asked in subdued tone while Narcissa stared at him in disbelief for not fighting Alexandra.
"You and your wife have already proven yourself incapable of parenting. Draco will be under my guardianship from this moment onwards. And when he is old enough, he will take the rightful place of Lord Malfoy," Alexandra told them.
"Can we see him before we leave?" Lucius asked expectantly.
Hesitating a little, "Draco refuses to see either of your faces," Alexandra admitted stiffly.
Lucius left without another word with Narcissa following him.
END OF FLASHBACK
"Draco did not step out of his rooms until his parents left the Manor. From then on, Draco was withdrawn for several months. My attempts could only coax him out of his shell at times, but could not break the walls that Draco built around himself. He could not go back to his previous lifestyle. He became serious, quiet and distant. All his fun filled activities and mischief came to an abrupt end. He completely threw himself into his education and, later, business. He was never the same again. Gone was the lively, exuberant and enthusiastic boy," Alexandra concluded, lightly brushing the tears from her eye.
At this moment, Francis excused himself and left.
"What happened to Riddle?" Harriet asked quietly.
Snorting loudly, "For all his threats, Riddle could do nothing to us. He has no connections in Wiltshire. He had hoped to form them by directly associating with the wealthiest and most powerful family in county, but twice his plans failed spectacularly. I managed to warn the business families around Wiltshire against him. With no support, Riddle turn tail and ran," Alexandra said smugly.
After a several moments of silence, Alexandra said agitatedly, "I recognised Narcissa's real disposition within a couple of months of her arrival at the Manor. I did everything in my power to control her nasty attitude, but she had Lucius wrapped around her little finger. Even after several years of marriage, Lucius is still so enamoured with her that he is blind to her evil manipulations. And Narcissa is clever enough to know all his weaknesses and play him accordingly."
Alexandra tightly squeezed her hands together that lying on her lap in agitation. "Yet, I acted selfishly and left them to their devices. If I had stayed, I could have prevented Lucius from making so many mistakes. I could have spared Draco the pain and the innocence of his boyhood," Alexandra said mournfully. "I could never forgive myself for what Draco had to go through."
Pausing for a moment, she continued with a sigh. "I looked after the family and the businesses for the next eight years before transferring the business responsibilities to Draco on his twenty-third birthday. Whatever my other accomplishments, I failed to instil moral values in my children. My son grew up to be unkind and, more than often, cruel, while my daughters were too cowardly to stand up for the sufferings of others and speak up against their brother," Alexandra admitted sadly. For the first time she looked her age to Harriet.
"Maybe they did not know. Aunts Victoria and Elizabeth, after all, lived away from Wiltshire," Harriet said in a way of consoling.
Alexandra shook her head in disappointment.
Harriet did not know what else to say, so she kept her mouth shut.
After couple of moments, Alexandra changed the subject. "You are curious about Anna, aren't you?" she asked Harriet with a knowing smile.
Unable to deny, Harriet smiled a little in reply.
"Anna is the daughter of one of our ex-workers, Samuel Barker. Anna's mother died at an early age, leaving Anna in her Father's sole care. When Anna was fourteen, her father too died. But before his death, Samuel put her responsibilities in my hands. After her Father's demise, I brought her to the Manor and employed her as a maid. Draco was three then. Narcissa had no maternal interests and always left Draco's care to Anna so she could attend her tea parties and balls. Sensing the affinity between Anna and Draco, I made her his nursemaid. Spending day after day in close proximity, Draco became quite attached to her, refusing to go anywhere without her. When Draco's Grandfather died, I, not wanting to separate them, left Anna here instead of taking her with me to Scotland."
Noticing distant smile on Alexandra's face, Harriet asked with a curious smile, "What?"
"I remember one time when Draco was nine, his Grandfather and I took him to the wedding of an associate's son. Watching the Bride and Bridegroom exchanging vows, Draco leaned closer to me and said in hushed tones, with his face scrunched up in the utmost seriousness, that he would marry Anna when he got older. I had to employ all my self-control not to burst out in giggles. I told him to keep that secret only between us and he agreed. His Grandfather would have been angry if he heard that. He probably would have interchanged Anna with some other maid for Draco. His fears would not have been unfounded for Anna was quite beautiful," Alexandra said with amusement shining in her eyes.
After a pause, Alexandra asked mischievously, "You are not feeling envious, are you dear?"
Laughing lightly, Harriet said, "No, I find it quite adorable actually."
Nodding, Alexandra smiled at her.
"What happened to her?" Harriet asked.
"Despite his young age, Blaise successfully and safely managed to bring Anna to Sirius. Sirius, who was then preparing for his voyage to America, took her with him. A few years later, when he returned to England, Sirius brought her letter to Draco in which she thanked him for his help and informed him that she had met and, later, happily married a nice man named Victor Halls there. Sirius assured Draco that he had met the man and vouched for his pleasant character," Alexandra told her. "But I think Draco still worries about her."
Harriet internally agreed with Alexandra.
The room elapsed into silence again until Francis announced the lunch. After luncheon, Alexandra retired to her rooms. This gave Harriet a chance to think over everything that had been divulged to her.
Harriet could not help but notice the similarity between her and her husband's childhood. She could relate and sympathize with Draco. She admitted to herself that Draco's pain was greater by ten-fold compared to hers, for it were his own parents' that had hurt him.
When Draco arrived in the evening, no matter how hard they tried, neither Alexandra nor Harriet could successfully hide their pensive expressions. During dinner, Draco glanced at them suspiciously, but he did not say anything.
Author's note: I can't think of anything that needs clarification in this chapter. If you have doubts, please let me know.
But do not ask me whether Anna was Draco's unrequited love!! I cannot and will not answer that. All I can say is that you will know the answer by the end of the story.
Sorry guys, there is no Draco/Harriet interaction in this chapter, but this chapter was necessary. Now that Harriet knows Draco's past, they can move on with their love story *wink*
One important thing, Reviews are like air and water to my muse. Without those, my muse refuses to co-operate with the updates. So, Please reviews!!! My muse wasn't least bit satisfied last time and gave me a lot of trouble with writing this chapter. I am sure you all noticed the delay. So, Please if you want faster update, you have to review!!!
Next Chapter: Harriet and Draco's first Christmas celebrations as a couple!!!
If I get 20 or more reviews, I might add a mistletoe *smirking wickedly*
Yeah, I have now descended to bribery. Things I do for my muse. *sighs*