fervere

Chapter Twenty Nine

Valentines came rushing in like a breath of held air, couples running around to do the very most in the most minimal way possible so that Umbridge wouldn’t throw the male students into detention, while still meeting the expectation of their girlfriends.  

Thankfully the day landed on a Sunday, on a day of no classes but still filled with extracurriculars like light quidditch practices, a bit of studying, while the majority of girls were locked up in their rooms, gushing over the small presents they’ve managed to receive throughout the day while they got ready for a gentle stroll around the castle or off to Hogsmeade if they could.  

It was a stark difference from what Draco remembered spending his last Valentine’s.  

He had almost forgotten about it until that morning and then that unbearable feeling that girls were watching his every move. 

Draco tilted his head in curiosity when he recalled that Daphne’s sister was showing a particular interest in him. The tiny thought of Astoria never making the DA meetings swiftly settled in his mind and just as quickly left when re realized how much he needed to do for the day.

Draco made sure he gave himself enough time to get properly ready for his evening. He had his navy blue chinos pressed, white button up shirt under a rather warm v-neck sweater. Draco had been messing with his hair running his fingers at the top to flop his near dry hair to side. He'd made sure to be as clean shaven as possible and was in the middle of selecting a rather comforting smell of cologne when there was a knock at the door.  

“Yes?” 

Ron barged in with a loud bang looking rather panicked, “Help.” 

Draco’s shoulders drooped, whirling around to his friend who was pacing back and forth in Draco’s room.  

“What now?” Draco whined lightly weighing his two options of scents, looking at Ron through his floor length mirror that was next to their rather small personal bathrooms where his toiletries were. Draco felt a rather woody fragrance with a hint of warm spice would be perfect to wear. 

“I don’t know what to tell Daphs.” Ron blurted, although his face revealed to be worried much more than just that. Draco whirled around to see a rather worried Ron looking like he was about to come undone.

“Tell her that you love her,” Draco bluntly suggested, “I don’t know. Something of that sort. That is unless you’ve told her already.” 

Ron looked even more erratic, “Oh. OH! I mean, yeah! Totally. I do. I haven’t though. I should. I'm crazy about her.” 

Draco nodded.  

“Good.” 

“Yes, good,” Ron said almost in a trance, repeating after Draco, “Wait. No. I mean, that’s not what I came in here for.” 

Ron's freckled face went a brilliant shade of red.  

“I mean I was up in Daph's room and she's asking me what she should wear and I don’t know what to tell her.” Ron bit on his lip, “And now she’s getting irritated with me. I mean I think she looks great in everything.” 

“Why not suggest a dress?” Draco suggested, although very confused because he thought it was obvious. 

Ron groaned pathetically, “Yes, but she wants to know if she should match with me.” 

Draco finally had a good look at Ron who had been dressed and ready to take Daphne down to his little surprise. He raised a brow trying his best not to smirk at the rather deep shade of sage.  

“Green is a good color on you, Ron,” Draco gave him an impressed nod, “Sure you can’t just transfer over to Slytherin?” 

Ron scratched the back of his ear, looking down at his sweater, “It was her Christmas gift.” 

Draco let out a deep sigh as he sat on his bed, getting ready to slip on his dark brown leather shoes.  

“Does she have anything green? Maybe she wants to match?” Draco suggested.  

Ron shook his head, “She has a red dress and a black one.” 

Draco snorted, “Mate.” 

“What.” 

“Do yourself a favor and pick the red one.” Draco winked. 

Ron blinked stupidly, “Even if we clash in color?” 

“There’ll be other enjoyable kinds of clashing if you chose red,” Draco sighed.  

Ron became quiet and hesitant. Draco expecting Ron to ask him if he was super sure was knocked into a stupor when Ron proceeded to blurt out another question.  

“What about, you know, the possibility of sex,” Ron asked, his face flaring red.  

Draco whirled around, his puffy coat in his hand. His mouth gaping wide.  

“What.” 

Ron gulped, “Well you know, what happens if we get to that point and-” 

“And what?” Draco made a face, “Just carry on like you’ve done before.” 

Ron remained silent for a long stretch of time, something that didn’t go unnoticed from Draco. 

“Are you telling me,” Draco paused dramatically, because he almost felt insane, “That you and Daph haven’t...?” 

Ron shook his head slowly but adamantly.  

“Lots of snogging and, well other things,” He looked pained to say, “ Lots of other things but not that.” 

Draco, along with the rest of the school, thoroughly believed they’ve been jumping right into action since the first day Daphne came back considering how sickly sweet and affectionate they were.

“Then what in the world have you been doing most of the time you and her are in her room?” Draco asked, almost feeling like a parent scolding his son.  

Ron shrugged, “Just stuff. Like snog more and- and we watch the windows cause of the lake... Mainly we just talk.” 

“Talk?” Draco said incredulously.  

Ron nodded, “Yeah well, we had a lot to catch up on and she laughs a lot. She says I'm the funniest bloke she’s ever known. Always puts up her silencing charm around her room since we’ve annoyed Pansy to a rage once.” 

Draco found it unbelievable but then again, if it wasn’t true then surely a slip of their private lives would have made it’s rounds around the school. If Pansy had nothing to blab about them then... 

Draco decided he should take Ron’s word for it.  

“Okay so you haven’t done it.” Draco confirmed, “What’s the big deal?” 

“I’m nervous.” Ron admitted and Draco nearly crumbled.  

“That’s fine. Everyone is nervous. Even after the hundredth time, I’m sure.” 

“Really?” 

Draco rolled his eyes, slipping on his jacket, pushing his wand, a small box, and a little bottle of Euphoric Elixir into the pockets of it. He patted his chest for the bottle but found it flat. Draco jumped in his skin while he rushed toward his desk trying to find the red label of the bottle to take with him. He thought it would help with his nerves if there was a terribly awkward lull in their date. Draco had to admit this was their first official big date and well, besides the things that Ron wasn't doing, Draco hadn't had a lot of time to talk to Millie straight through the night. 

Draco slammed drawers and shuffled through his belongings while Ron went on about how he she go about his first time. Draco wheeled around trying to find his potion he had brewed with Neville only to find it next to Ron who was leaning against his small personal bookshelf. The bottle was next to the other Sedativerum wrapped with a burnt orange label he made as well. 

"Pass me that red bottle, will you Ron?" Draco pointed.

Ron caught a glimpse of the bottle Draco pointed out and his eyes widened, “Is that for pregnancy prevention? Can I have some?” 

Draco blinked blankly and twisted his face, “No! It's- You know, I’m not equip to guide you through this. Go on, tell Daphne the red dress is fine and, Ron?” 

“Yeah?”  

Draco shook his head, “Toss me that bottle."

Ron gulped grabbing the first bottle and lightly tossed the vial at Draco, who quickly slipped it in his chest pocket. 

"You don’t have to do anything you’re not ready to do," Draco said with the same comfort he would have sitting on a chair full of spikes, "I’m sure Daph will be content with all the other... stuff you’ve been up to. I’m mean, if you haven’t noticed, she adores you.” 

With that, Draco gave Ron a final push out of his dorm, and joined him in the hall to head for his own date.  

Ron squeaked out a small thanks before he scurried off to Daphne’s room on the girl’s side of the dorm wings.  

With all that behind him, Draco picked up Millie at a respectable time, extending his elbow out for her so they could get on their own way. Millie was gushing at the fact that she was one of few that was able to leave Hogwarts for the evening on a date, while her friends stayed behind trying to organize a small singles gathering for themselves.  

Millie was dressed in a warm purple sweater dress under her thick peacoat. Her stockings were pink and shimmery just like her hair, that seemed extra shiny on that day.  

Draco cocked his head at her. 

“You look nice,” He smiled at her. Millie touched her wavy hair gingerly.  

“Thanks,” She said before they went off on a long walk towards Hogsmeade. Draco made it a point to remind Millie how he carried her back from that party, while his wrist was hurt, and she never truly thanked him.  

Millie scoffed, “I did tell you! I was so embarrassed to hear what happened it was the first thing I thought of doing.”  

Draco shrugged trying to hide his smirk, “Oh did you? It must have been an awfully forgettable one.” 

“You’re the worst!” Millie laughed. Draco was pleased at how much Millie was in a good mood. Truthfully, Draco had a ton of things he had in mind to talk to Millie about. Something about Ron and Daphne simply talking in her room all this time had been so unexpected that Draco was curious if it was even possible to do with Millie.

After all, any time Millie managed to sneak into Slytherin, talking wasn’t on her top priorities once she reached his room.  

Firstly, he did want to find out about this particular interest her parents had mentioned. It came as a surprise to Draco that Millie wished to be something of a Wizenmagot. It was a rather honorable things to aspire to be but Draco wanted to hear straight from her

There was also that very obvious itch to scratch with Millie. 

There was something that hadn’t quite convince him to mention the DA to Millie. Perhaps it was because they hardly spent their time talking that he couldn’t vouch for her or even when they did talk, it didn’t have much substance.  

If Draco was truthful, the things that did stick out in his mind when it came to Millie was her distaste for the Weasleys for constantly getting into trouble. Draco also knew she hated Umbridge but he was convinced there was not a soul who truly liked Umbridge. It couldn't be enough to allow her into the DA, right?

But, there should be no reason to exclude her, right? 

Righht?

Draco battled with his flip-flopping mind, trying to find a way to tell Millie about the DA... that is, if she seemed open to the idea at all since it was breaking a whole lot of rules she didn't seem keen on breaking nor did she look kindly upon others who broke simpler rules. There was just something off about allowing Millie within their circle Draco wasn’t quite ready to let her in. 

Nevertheless, they had a great light conversation heading up toward the old town. There were several other couples en route to enjoy the cloudy day out. As Draco led them around Hogsmeade lightly window shopping by Honey Dukes, which had an array of tipsy toffees and jolly jellies all in festive reds and pinks, he couldn’t help but to notice a single figure across the street from them. 

Hermione was by herself in front of the Owl Post, looking around nervously, presumably for Krum.  

When they connected eyes, Draco almost froze. Stunned in a reminder that she was also heading to Puddifoot’s that evening. Her hair was smooth and pinned back with hints of make up that had stunned him the very same way as it did at the Yule Ball. 

A thick knit cream colored sweater and a dark red corduroy skirt was under her heavy looking cloak, clutching on to a rather simple looking purse she held on for dear life. Her slender legs that peeked out were bare and Draco nearly stormed over to scold her about covering up seeing the slight tint of red on her knees.  

Draco tore his eyes away from Hermione in horror to focus on Millie who went on and on about getting a box of chocolates from Honey Dukes after their dinner. 

He could feel his face was blank, trying to engage with Millie naturally. 

“Actually, I think my friends would really like if I brought them a slice of Black Forest cake from Puddi's, what do you think?” Millie gave him a hopeful look as if she was insinuating that he was supposed to agree to buying an extra slice of cake for her friends.  

“Sure,” Draco agreed and allowed himself to hop over to the next windows where Zonko’s had a bouquet of flowers singing love songs at each couple that walked by, or rather shouted... off key. 

Draco wanted to look back to take a second look at Hermione who looked angelic and hopeful, watching each person who walked by hoping to spot the oaf Krum lumbering down towards her. 

Draco took the chance. 

He looked over his shoulder at Hermione who still happened to be looking at them as they strolled away heading toward their destination. She jumped slightly in surprise and gave him a weary smile. Draco snapped back around at the sound of his name. 

“Draco?” Millie questioned as he scratched the back of his head, “Were you listening?” 

“Um,” Draco gulped, “Sorry.” 

“Was that Hermione back there?” Millie repeated, unconcerned for Draco’s wandering mind. 

Draco nearly had a heart attack when Millie mentioned her. 

“Must be. Looked a lot like her, didn’t it?” Millie sighed out wistfully, “Glad she’s finally focusing on her own life. Think her and Krum are heading to Puddifoot’s too?” 

“I- maybe?” Draco gulped.  

Millie grinned up at him, “Can’t wait to hear how her night goes. See how she likes it when people speak on her. Oh, maybe we can be first hand witnesses on how that prude unravels in front of her boyfriend.” 

Draco gritted his teeth not wanting to witness Hermione’s affections being directed on someone else. He remained silent for the rest of their walk. 

When they arrived at Madam Puddifoot’s, Draco took Millie’s coat off and motioned to the booth he had reserved for them. 

They were immediately attacked with thin streamers and gold flecks by floating cherubs. Some were aiming arrows as they floated around while others play a gentle tune on the lyres. Even with that surprise, Draco was astonished that Puddifoot’s, an already obvious eye sore of a tea shop, was decorated in the most gaudy and tacky decorations for the occasion.  

Paper hearts were hanging down like wisteria vines from the ceiling and the table cloths all mismatched in patterns but still joined at the theme of red, pink, and loud.  

Millie scooted herself into their reserved booth, nearly knocking over the candle holder and the small red glass vase with an arrangement of flowers.  

Just as Draco was going to step toward his seat, to sit across from her, Millie pulled at his arm, begging him to sit next to her.  

Draco gave in, but in doing so, also gave up his perfect view of the door. Draco grumbled, his hand fisting into his coat pocket, at the reminder that he had the Euphoric Elixir to take so he could loosen up and enjoy himself. 

Millie wasted no time in reaching for Draco’s hand to secure it with hers and leaning her head on his shoulder. Draco tilted his head to rest on hers. 

“I wonder what everyone else is doing,” Millie sighed out, “Roger Davies is taking his date to the Nook, you know. Heard he spent all day trying to decorate it.” 

“Did he?” Draco hummed out.  

“I overheard Daphne in History that Ron was surprising her,” Millie smiled, narrowing her eyes at Draco, “You wouldn’t happen to know what he was up to, do you?” 

Draco, in fact, did know what Ron had planned. Ron barging into his room was not the only time Draco had helped him that day.  

In fact, Draco spent most of his morning trying to help Ron set up while Harry chased around prefects bribing them to make sure they stay clear from the Prefect’s bathroom for the rest of the day. Both Harry and Draco shared a look of unenthusiastic happiness for Ron who was keen on making sure Daphne had the best date she could have.

Surely Millie would have heard through the grape vine what Ron was up to and perhaps even Draco's involvement, analyzing him to see how much effort Draco would put on their own date.

His own date certainly didn't require as much effort like setting up a table and some chairs by the stained-glass mural of the mermaid in the Prefect's bathroom, nor having to light up hundreds of candles Towards the end, it certainly felt like thousands were lit and charmed so they wouldn’t go off with a single gush of air. There was even a harp Ron had dragged in that he found in the Room of Requirements. Ron and Draco had argued over because none of them knew how to properly charm it so it could play.

Ron had muttered about asking Hermione for a spell so he could set the mood. 

Draco honestly thought the perfect blend of herbs and oils of the bath was enough to encourage the mood Ron was trying to achieve. Draco was also prematurely regretting the idea of cursing the entire school of dealing with Ron looking like a blissful mess the day after Valentine's. 

“Merlin knows what he plans on for food” Millie scoffed, bring Draco back into the present, almost looking envious of the effort that Ron had put into his date. If only she knew the half of it. 

Millie clapped her hands in realization when she mentioned food, “Oh, the menu!” 

She had placed the small books to the side, handing one over to Draco to see the specials for the day. All overpriced of course, but considering the plain meals they’ve been getting at school recently, Draco was more than happy to pay double the price for a steaming plate of cheesy pasta.  

“Umbridge’s getting pretty ruthless isn’t she?” Millie sighed, her eyes glued to the menu, “I didn’t think she’d be so harsh on our Professors.” 

Draco made a face, “I think we should be more concerned on how easily we’re getting detention. I’m sure Dumbledore can easily restore their positions if they’re fired... whenever he comes back, we can’t really get back the lost hours of detention back.” 

Draco made a face of concern. The absence of Dumbledore was painfully obvious and not a single student wanted to point it out in fear that it would cement their worst nightmares. As if speaking the truth out loud would only make it certain that Dumbledore's weekly sightings were seemingly feeling more and more like fiction spread by students lucky enough to spot him.

Millie sat up and leaned away to get a good look at him.  

“Right, where has that man been?” She began, “It’s not like it’s fair at all for us...” 

Draco softly smiled at her. 

“...who actually follow her rules. As if the first decrees were that difficult to abide to,” Millie huffed, “Now we’re drowning in them because some people can’t help themselves, it’s truly annoying.” 

Draco’s smile dropped. He wasn’t quite sure how to move the conversation forward without appearing sympathetic towards those who had been suffering under Umbridge’s rule.  

“Haven’t you gotten detention at all?” Draco asked.  

“Nearly. Once,” She scoffed, “But only because I was around that Luna Lovegood from my house. She was talking nonsense and Umbridge overheard her. Nearly got thrown in with her, can you believe it?” 

Draco mindlessly played with one of the paper hearts that drifted off the vines overhead, ignoring a cherub that swooped by handing them a goblet of water. Draco suspected that the paper heart vines were charmed to release a heart every once in a while, to make it look like it was raining. The menu was loose in his other hand, no longer paying attention to it as discouragement filled him 

Truthfully, Draco was disappointed and he knew there had to be a way to convince himself that Millie can join them. Hadn’t she admitted she was wrapped around his finger? Perhaps she was only saying these things because she believed that what he wanted to hear.  

He was, after all, in the Inquisitorial Squad. By all means, they were known to be Umbridge’s guard dogs for those outside of the DA. 

Still, the hope that Millie was already good to the core was something Draco didn’t know he wanted. He didn’t want to entice her. Draco wanted her to already be trustworthy.  

“So when were you going to tell me that you loved law.” Draco lightly teased, trying to move the subject around to something more light hearted. Millie snapped out of her train of thought, pausing to give Draco’s question time to sink in.  

“Law?” She questioned, “Oh, I mean. It’s alright.” 

Draco waited for her to continue but was slightly confused when she didn’t elaborate. He thought maybe she had been a bit shy to share her interest with him or would try to down play it but she did neither. Millie rested her head back on to his shoulder, her fingers loosened in grip, favoring a light touch running across his knuckles.  

“Is that it?” Draco playfully scoffed, “Your parents went on and on during Christmas about how you love studying wizard laws and your aspirations about working as a Wizengamot. Is it not what you want to do? Work in the high court for the Ministry?” 

Millie shifted uncomfortably in her seat, wiggling against Draco.  

“I don’t know. Perhaps,” She mumbled, “Let’s talk about something else.” 

Draco noticed the frown etched on her face and was now truly confused. This time, Draco leaned away to get a better view.  

“Have you been lying to your parents?” Draco asked, “Is that not what you want to do?” 

Millie huffed at the annoyance that the subject wasn’t being dropped, “No, it’s not that.” 

“Then?” 

Millie was about to moan and groan about Draco’s persistence when their designated cherub came by to take their order. Millie had jumped at the chance to order, hoping it would negate the topic off of her. They both decided on a large plate of pasta to share, two cups of champagne, and a marshmallow fluff pie.  

Draco reached for the champagne that was quick to arrive.  

“Go on,” He said as his cup touched his lips, “I’m not letting go of the topic.” 

Millie slumped into her seat, “I am pretty well versed in past laws and trials, but I mean, there are other things I would also like to pursue.” 

Draco nodded, “Like what?” 

Draco was about to twist himself to casually take a look at the sound of the door opening. He was curious as to who had just entered but he trained his eyes to not stray off Millie.

“Like having a family or something like that.” Millie shrugged, “I don’t know.” 

Draco cleared his throat, taking a nervous swig of champagne. He saw a flash of red hair in his peripheral vision and knew it wasn’t Hermione. 

At this point of the night, Madam Puddifoot was filled with couples, most of them fairly comfortable with each other while the other half struggled to make eye contact.  

Draco discreetly turned every time the door open and the bell would ring announcing the arrival of a new couple, in hopes to catch Hermione and see where she would sit so Draco could see how her date pans out. It’s not like he wanted to witness anything uncouth but he did want to make sure Krum would be on his best behavior with his Hermione.

His friend, Draco corrected his train of thought.  

Draco took a quick survey of the tables and noticed Ginny was in a booth as well, perhaps that flash of red hair he caught a glimpse of just a few moments ago. 

“That’s interesting,” Draco mused, “Are you favoring a family above a career? Is that what you said during our Career Advice meetings for our OWLs?” 

“No, silly,” Millie smiled, “I thought it was better to have a family as young as possible and then once the child is old enough to walk and talk, I can start thinking of getting into a place at the Ministry.” 

He blinked, “Wait. How young are you hoping to be?” 

Millie gasped for a second and clapped her hands once at her sudden interrupting thought.

“Oh Draco!” She said, “Your gift! I was going to give it to you the second I saw you!” 

When Millie pulled out a box, Draco was rightfully confused as to how Millie was able to hide a pretty weighty box, but he didn’t question it. Millie placed it on his lap, giving him an earnest hopeful smile 

“Go on!” She excited pushed, “Open!” 

Draco was about to but stopped, the box was extra lavish and just as decorative as Madam Puddifoot’s. It felt like Millie really put a lot of effort into her gift and it only reminded Draco of how he had failed during Christmas.  

“Wait,” Draco sighed out, “Before I do, here.” 

Draco reached into the pocket of his coat that was on his lap and he pulled out a flat small velvet box. He watched Millie's eye glow at the box. While Draco handed it over to her, he pulled it a burnt orange vial from his breast pocket to set it to the side for himself.

Perhaps it wasn’t a thoughtful gift like he would like to give, but Draco was sure she would like it.  

Millie couldn’t help but to smirk when the box was in her hands. She could half assume what was in the box, something of worth.  

The box flipped open and with the plush set of the box, was a silver bracelet with a chain of juicy green gems, the same ones he had charmed. Millie gasped at first and then looked back at him. 

“Are these?” She began and Draco took the time to fill her in.  

“Peridots,” He explained, “Our Jeweler suggested to take the diamonds out. Didn’t have enough emeralds in our collection that fit the set so the next best thing was the Burmese Peridots.”  

Millie looked back at the bracelet for a second too long and Draco immediately something was off.  

“What?” He asked.  

“Green?” Millie questioned.  

At this point Draco felt himself frown and noticing Draco’s reaction, Millie jumped at the dwindling chance to feign a bit of excitement. She fiddled with the clasp and went on and on about how stunning the bracelet looked on her. Draco silently agreed and went through the motions of the rest of their date, pleased with himself as the ring around his pointer finger pulsated in warmth, charmed with her proximity. 

Draco redirected his attention to his own gift and pulled at the ribbon to unbox it.  

A bunch of crumbled pink tissue paper fell out and in the middle of the box was a picture frame. There was a group photo of all the schools Prefects they had taken at the beginning of the year. Draco watched himself staring stoically back in the photograph, while Millie had found herself next to Draco clinging on to his arm excitedly, placing kisses all over his cheek, eventually crawling into his lap and waving at the real Draco. All the other prefects in the photo looked wildly uncomfortable. 

“Our first photo together,” Millie exclaimed, “Who knew.” 

Draco’s eyes noticed Pansy, who had eventually quit weeks later after this photo was taken, arms crossed in disgust and rolling her eyes at them. In fact, there was a number of people in the photo scowling but it was Hermione that grabbed his attention.  

She looked just as stoic as he did, looking purposefully away from his direction.It almost seemed like she was frowning the way her brows were hitched up just a tad. Was she upset? It almost looked like the photo from Umbridge's list he had pinned on his wall in his room. Hermione had that same displeased expression. 

“Do you like it?” Millie asked, “I was thinking we should take more photos so, eventually, we can have an album of memories.” 

Draco gulped. 

Memories... 

He couldn’t exactly focus on anything but his spoiled mood. Even when the food was gone and they were about three drinks in and Millie was getting handsy, Draco still couldn’t shake off something. 

There was something aggravating on how disappointed he was.  

If he had any plans on telling Millie about the DA, he was surely not going to do it anymore. Not that night. Even when he found himself being snogged senseless, he was hoping that something would spark a bit of distraction in him. 

After an hour or two of food and drinks, Draco still felt a bit of emptiness inside. Maybe because he had hoped that Millie would somehow, unknowingly, prove herself as someone worthy of his trust. The more he drank the more he felt his standards rise and how much Millie was failing to reach an impossible standard he was unfairly moving for her.

It wasn’t that she couldn’t be trusted with the knowledge of the DA.  

It was that she shouldn’t.

Not yet, at least. 

Because the more Draco listened to Millie, he could sense the way she’d bend her words to please him. She would constantly search for his approval in the way he smiled or commented on the things she said.  

He couldn’t justify letting her know about the DA because he sensed she would ultimately just go along with anything he led her into. Draco, in good faith, didn’t want her to join simply because he told her about it.  

Draco wanted her to join because she was vetted by others and she had full ownership of her decision without his influence.  

Draco needed something stronger than the fourth champagne he downed and something was in that tiny bottle of Euphoric Elixir he had brought along.  

Draco looked out the table for the bottle as the conversation lulled and immediately found it.  

Empty. 

Draco blinked rapidly and ran his hand across the table cloth, wondering if it had spilt.  

Millie let in a long yawn and a sloppy smile spread over her face, trying to focus on Draco.  

“That was a lot of food, wasn’t it?” She drawled out, “I feel a food coma coming on.” 

“Shall we get along then?” Draco suggested flatly, eyeing Millie questionably.  

Millie nodded, “Ah, honestly I think I can use a little nap, is that okay?” 

Draco gave a halfhearted shrug, “Sure.” 

When they both stood up, Millie fixing her dress and hair with the minimal effort, Draco took the time to scan around the room briefly. Everyone was still in the middle of their fantastic dinner and yet, there was no sign of Hermione.  

“Let’s go.” Millie groggily announced with the biggest yawn imaginable. 

They made their way back to the castle. Millie had been more vocal than she was before, proudly looking at her bracelet and the way it caught the light, but in a way that made Draco think she possibly had way too much champagne. Her muttered words strung together into one long indecipherable word. She stumbled over her feet every other step that Draco offered to half walk her back up to the castle.  

“Itsolovely,” Millie sighed out, “Th’night and your gifff.” 

She closed her eyes for a moment and cleared her throat, tripping over her feet again and let out a small hiccup.  

Draco winced. She must be definitely drunk. 

No matter, Draco would let her rest in his room that is, if she could even make it to the castle, let alone the dungeons.  

They were barely making their way towards the edge of Hogsmeade when Millie completely crumpled under her own weight. She still seemed somewhat coherent blabbing on about emeralds and Draco’s eyes. 

Stunned that the more time passed, the loopier Millie got, Draco gently shook Millie’s shoulder to make sure she was alright. Draco knew they had a few drinks but wasn’t aware of how much Millie could actually handle.  

Perhaps that’s why he had found her abandon the night he carried her back to Hogwarts. Perhaps, this will be the second. With a final confirming nod, Draco took out his wand from his coat and, once again, magicked her body to levitate. Millie’s body hovered for a moment, her arms reaching out for him.  

She quickly snaked her arms around his neck and nuzzled herself into his neck, mumbling about bookbags and his bed. Draco scanned around, taking note of the Inn by the exit path of Hogsmeade.  

A singular thought entered his mind. 

That same night he had been carrying Millie back to Hogwarts he had bumped into Hermione with Krum that faithful night after their quidditch match. 

She had used Draco as an excuse to not spend the night with Krum. A rather bold move from Krum, and although Draco couldn’t express his strong opposition to it without feeling hypocritical, Draco was struck with another dreaded thought.  

Hermione absence at Madam Puddifoot’s had been itching at the back of his mind.

Did they have other plans she maybe didn’t mention to Draco?  

Or...Would Krum have been eager to attempt a second time?  

Hermione did seem sincere in trying to make up for her Christmas mishap. Maybe they went off for a private chat elsewhere... Draco glanced back at the Inn.  

Draco’s heart crumbled into itself. Maybe her night turned to be a bit more salacious than Draco had imagined.  

Millie’s sudden hiccup pulled Draco back into his reality. One where he would be better off making sure Millie was alright rather than worrying what Hermione was up to.  

When they reached the castle with more than enough time before curfew, Draco set Millie down in hopes that the walk was enough for her to feel coherent. The second any weight was on her feet, Millie collapsed at her joints making her feel like a ragdoll. After a few attempts of earnestly trying to wake her, Draco pulled her back up into his arms and decided it was best to take her to the Hospital Wing.  

Again.  

It was starting to feel a bit like deja vu when he showed up to Madam Pomfrey with Millie in his arms.  

He strained a smile on his face, “Sorry.” 

Madam Pomfrey huffed, “Again?”  

Draco shrugged, “I suppose she’s not the best at drinking.” 

“All you lot should be more responsible with the drink, you’re only fifteen, you know,” Madam Pomfrey scolded, quickly taking Millie from him and setting her down in the nearest bed.  

Millie groaned out in relief once she was set down and her body molded into the cushion of the mattress. 

Millie sighed out, “Oh we’re here.” 

Draco stood at her bed side, tucking strands of hair off her face. Madam Pomfrey jostled off to find suitable potions to help Millie ride out the drink.  

“Close your eyes for a bit,” Draco advised, "You need a nap, don't you?" 

Millie sighed out wistfully, “Okay, jusss for a sec. I have ‘nother giffor you.” 

Draco snorted, “Do you?” 

Madam Pomfrey returned, unstopping bottles and pulling out medicinal warm towels.  

“You can take these knickers I got for you off,” Millie giggled and then snored herself to sleep a second later.

Draco felt his face burn when Madam Pomfrey turned to him. He cleared his throat, thanked Madam Pomfrey and promptly ran away.  

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- 

Draco wandered around the castle stalling, still within Umbridge’s curfew hours (surprisingly). He found it particularly amusing that his Valentine’s had gone in a direction he could have never predicted.  

Not that Draco thought he deserved any kind of attention or affections from Millie by simply dangling a bracelet in front of her, but the last thing he would have imagined was Millie ending up in the Hospital Wing. In fact, he oddly felt relieved that Millie wasn't spending the night. It certainly gave him the time to rethink his night with her.

Draco didn’t feel like rehashing his night locked up in his dorm, so, he used what was left of curfew to walk and sort out the new memories in his mind. There was some odd sense of protection with even the most ordinary of pleasant memories, he felt like no one was entitled to unlock, even under the most gruesome circumstances. 

Instead, Draco found the most secluded untraversed floors of Hogwarts to loiter and while he lingered, he fidgeted with his wand, looking out the windows of the castle at nothing in particular. During a moment of pause, Draco took out the pack of cigarettes, the very same ones that Daphne had given him, and lit one up with the end of his wand.  

He brought the lit cigarette to his lips and drawled in a burning inhalation only to cough up the itching smoke out of his throat.  

It looked easier when the muggles did it but Draco was determined to try his best attempt to look as dashing and charismatic as Sirius Black and his tales of riding his motorbike and smoking as he soared through the skies. 

After a few attempts, Draco had to admit he was still not very good at it, but he understood the appeal of it. It did take off the nervous edge as he fiddled with the cigarette in between his fingers. 

He took a long drawl, smoke itching at this throat, as he stared at the ugliest statue Hogwarts owned on the third floor corridor, feeling memories shift around like boxes around in his head. Draco didn't realize how he was doing it with such ease that it took little effort from him. He was even able to haze some memories purposefully like the smoke that was inhaled from the cigarette he brought to his lips. 

Draco was at a dead end, by another set of towering cathedral windows that let in the bit of moon light. It was the very same floor Millie had mentioned how she had caught the twins messing around.  

His gaze swept around to take note of the dead end. It wasn’t much. Nothing particularly outstanding that Draco could notice that made this particular section a tempting spot for the twins to loiter like the Nook in the library. 

Draco flicked the embers off his cigarette and blew out a puff of smoke, clouding all of his morning's interactions with Harry and Ron away with a thick black smoke and hiding it behind a grueling quidditch practice. His eyes were fixated on the statue, taking in the details of her face and then of the ripples of her cloak.

And then the witch twitched.  

Draco coughed in surprise convinced she had just winked at him. Draco stared in wonder, unaware that it would move, much less jump out of its platform to reveal what looked like a doorway behind it. 

Then out came a familiar figure and Draco’s heart leap to his sensitive throat.  

It was Hermione and it seemed like she already knew he was there, because the moment she peered out, her eyes were looking right at him.

Draco straightened up, in awe and wonder, his world stopping at the simple sight of her poking a shy head from the edge of the hidden doorway.

"'Mione?" Draco called out, "Is that you?"

She finally took a step away from the edge, standing still and kneading her hands together nervoulsy, caving into herself as if she was bracing for a good scolding from him.  

Draco felt himself beam seeing her alone. He wanted to ask her a million questions like, how in the world she ended up behind the one-eyed witch or joke if she was watching him again.  

A flashback of that map filled his head. Draco could recall with ease about that certain pathway that he once pointed out. It took them to... Zonkos? Or was it Honeydukes? 

When Hermione’s face came into full view of the moonlight, Draco stopped breathing and his smile faltered.  

Hot fat tears glistened, catching the light of the moon, and were staining her irritated cheeks.

Hermione’s beautiful plump cheeks and those inquisitive thoughts of the map came to a screeching halt for Draco.  

He threw his cigarette on the stone floor and stepped on in, attempting to reach Hermione in record time. 

She was silently crying her chin quivering and just as Draco was within reach, Hermione threw her arms around him and the soft bawls she had been holding in were right at his ear breaking his own heart. 

“Hermione?” Draco gulped down the knot, confused and bewildered at her. Was she hurt? Did Krum hurt her? Was he cruel during their date? Or worse...  

Draco had to pull himself out of a twisting vortex of dark thoughts. 

Hermione’s staggered breathing and gentle hiccups as she tried to regain control of herself, forced Draco to peel her off of him, to get a good look at her. He held on to her shoulders as she avoided looking at him. Her hands kept on wiping fresh new tears, adding to the redness and irritation in her cheeks.  

“What’s wrong?” 

She sniffed, “I just feel so, hiccup, stupid.” 

Her voice tapered off into a soft cry and the ragged breathing began. Draco immediately brought her back in, shoving her face into his chest. He wrapped his arms protectively around her head, shielding her as much as possible, as if that was enough to shield her from the cruelty of the world. She, with equal need, held on to Draco with a grip so tight he knew she was genuinely leaning on him for support. Without meaning to, he stuck his nose into the thick of her head and his heart did flips at the soft scent of her. 

Draco selfishly took his time inhaling this scent that hung thick around her, waiting for her to settle down as he held her. He didn’t know how to decipher the surge of strange emotions tormenting him at the moment. The only thing he was completely sure of was that he hated seeing her in such a state. 

“Did he hurt you?” Draco asked, “If he did, just tell me how to get back to Hogsmeade so I can make up a new Unforgivable curse to use on him. I can cut his member off. It'll shrivel up and fall off.” 

Hermione let out a miserable laugh.  

“No,” She sniffed. Hermione had finally found a steady rhythm to her breathing, allowing her to ride out the last of her tears without succumbing to spiraling. She still hadn’t pulled away. Draco was well aware of her arms loosening up around him, but it didn’t stop him from releasing his grip on her.  

“Then?” Draco huffed, "Tell me what to do and I'll do it. Whatever you need."  

There was silence, Hermione's eyes full of wonder and her mouth parted in awe. It was like she was looking at him for the first time, like she could read him like an open book the way he cared enough to make loose threats against anyone who upset her. Draco could almost see the realization click in her eyes but a familiar voice pierced the air, breaking them apart. 

“Oh BROTHER,” Ginny moaned out. Hermione immediately stepped away from Draco as if she was shocked to be caught in his arms. They both turned to Ginny who was standing with none other than-  

“ Potter ?” Draco furrowed his brows, his name coming out like an accusation. 

Harry narrowed his eyes at the both of them.  

“Weren’t you at Madam’s Puddifoot with Mildred just a moment ago, Malfoy?” Harry immediately questioned.  

Draco scoffed, “And how would you know where I was?”  

Harry gaped, trying to respond. 

It was a weird standoff.  

Hermione sniffing. Ginny eyes wide in scandal. Harry defensive. Draco confused. Very confused. 

Stressed, Draco fished for another cigarette from his pocket and lit it, taking a step away for a moment to exhale the first inhalation away from his friends.  

He scratched the back of his neck awkwardly, missing the way he had held Hermione close and was slightly annoyed that the moment was taken from him. When he finally turned back around, Draco narrowed his eyes at the three of them. 

“You know for being on Umbridge's shit list, you three sure like test the waters. It’s minutes until curfew, you know?” Draco sighed. 

“Rebellious doesn’t equate to stupidity, Draco,” Ginny glared, “We can tell time, you know.” 

Draco flickered his sights to Ginny, ready to derail the conversation, “You and Potter, eh Gin?” 

At that point, Ginny and Harry turned a violent shade of red.  

“N-no,” Ginny squeaked out, “We caught up with Luna.” 

“Oh, didn’t realize you were into that sort of thing. Luna is quite the pick for a threesome, if you ask me,” Draco muttered and Hermione immediately slapped his arm with the back of her hand. She gave him a watery warning look, but at least there was a smile on her face she was trying to hide.  

“Her father is the editor of the Quibbler,” Ginny defended, “She was helping Harry get his own word out in the press. The Daily Prophet is drowning Harry in slander if you haven’t heard.” 

Hermione cleared her throat. 

“Right,” Hermione nodded, “It should have been me joining Harry and Luna.” 

Draco’s eyebrows rose, “Oh, I didn’t know you also like that sort of thing too, Granger.” 

Hermione let out an exasperated sigh, “For Merl- Draco!” 

Draco licked his lips as he pinched the cigarette away, dodging the light swipes Hermione took at Draco.  

“Where’s Dreadful , Draco?” Ginny called out referring to Millie, her arms crossed and a glare on her harsh freckled face. Harry had taken out the map from the inside of his jacket to check their surroundings, not really interested in the light banter going on. 

“Hospital Wing,” Draco shrugged.  

“What?” Hermione sniffed.  

Ginny glared, “Why is she there?” 

“Drank too much?” Draco shrugged, “I wasn’t going to take her to my dorm in that state.” 

“Oh so you’re a gentleman now?” Ginny cocked her head, glancing at Hermione, “Surprised you didn’t drag her down to your dorm to charm Dreadful with her favorite monstrous snake you allege-” 

Draco shrugged, “I rather have my participants actively willing. Inebriated isn't my thing, Weasley.”  

“Draco!” Hermione snapped, "Ginny, stop."

“What!” Ginny scoffed, “I’ve had to suffer listening to all this gossip. Am I not allowed to repeat it?” 

Harry sighed, completely disinterested in the conversation, “I think I rather walk in on Ron and Daphne snogging again than listen to this.” 

That was enough to break the tension. All four of them let out a much needed chuckle. Draco threw his head back while the others shared a groaning eye roll, trying not to laugh at a misfortune they seem to all share. Draco was just happy to see Hermione not cry.  

Ginny hand used Harry’s shoulder to guide him in the direction of their house. 

“Come on, Harry,” Ginny winked at Draco, “They might be able to get away with curfew for being Prefects but we can’t..” 

Harry gave a long look at Hermione before glancing at Draco. There was something unsettling in his green eyes but, ultimately, he bowed his head. 

Harry reminded, “Don’t give Umbridge any excuse to throw you both in detention. We need you. Both.”  

With that, Harry handed over the map to Hermione and left with a very giddy Ginny, who kept looking over her shoulders at them.

Now as much as Draco wanted to get back to that hug before Ginny and Harry showed up, he knew he couldn’t just resume from where they left off.  

Draco flicked off some embers of his new cigarette to the floor, catching Hermione’s attention.  

“Didn’t know you smoked,” She pointed out.  

“Daphne,” Draco answered, “I’m pretty sure she’s quitting cause of Weasel.” 

Hermione smirked, “Ah. Yeah. Ron's mum wasn’t exactly thrilled about her smoking over Christmas. I think Daphne felt bad.” 

Draco smiled, “Did I really created the most insufferable couple known to man?” 

“Don't give yourself all the credit." Hermione rolled her eyes, "Daphne was rather forward."

"Thanks to me," Draco beamed.

Hermione blushed, "Yes well... perhaps. I hate to admit it but there are times Daph and Ron are rather sweet. Can’t help but to like them, sometimes.”

She cleared her throat, rubbing the sides of her arm to sooth herself, “Besides, I think I can create an even more insufferable couple to compete with yours.” 

Draco’s brow cocked up.  

“Is that so? Who?” 

“Just wait and see.” She gave a coy shrug and snorted glancing at her watch and then at the map.

Before Draco could protest at her ambiguous remark, Hermione cursed under her breath shoving the map into her coat. She grabbed ahold Draco’s arm and dragged him along, his cigarette slipping from his fingers.  

They flew down stairs wordlessly, hearts pounding, crossing long stretches of corridors until they reached the safety of the dungeons. They were both equally out of breath as they finally came to a slow halt. Draco held on to his knees, hoping that Hermione would explain herself.  

“Umbridge was on the same floor,” She wheezed out, “And looks like Flitch is monitoring the first floors. Fuck.” 

Draco found it pretty amusing that the first place Hermione thought of dragging him to was the dungeons. He eyed the Slytherin entrance for a moment just as he felt his heart and his lungs wane off the burn of running. Hermione’s breathing was slowing as well.  

“So you drag me to my house?” Draco cocked a brow up.  

Hermione huffed, “To secure that you’re safe!” 

“If you want to come to my room, you just need to ask ‘Mione,” Draco teased. Even in the darkness of the dungeons, Draco could tell this certain shade of red burning at her cheek was nothing but pure infuriating frustration.  

“You seriously can’t help yourself, can you?” Hermione huffed.  

There as a brief pause before a voice echoed down to them from the first floor.  

“Oo’s there?”   

Flitch.  

Draco grabbed Hermione and they both rushed into the Slytherin Common Room, where neither of them could have predicted where their night would lead to.