Light & Dark

Through a series of discrete and not so discrete hints, Granger made it obnoxiously clear that her birthday was coming up. I was no fool; I knew she expected me to acknowledge the occasion. Malfoy's were exceptional gift-givers; whether the gift was extravagant or selected with superior intuition, a gift from a Malfoy was always perfect.

I knew just the thing for Granger.

xxx

Knew it. You're in love with it already, aren't you? D.M.

Yes! I have always wanted a pet! And this cat is perfect and highly intelligent too! I am going to name him Crookshanks! Thank you so much, Draco! H.G.

What can I say? It's in my blood. D.M.

I wish I could have sent you a birthday gift in June. H.G.

Too risky; besides, I have everything I need. D.M.

xxx

Have you gotten your class catalog yet? I want to take ALL the classes, but that seems impossible! How can they expect me to choose between Astronomy, Arithmancy, Ancient Runes, Care of Magical Creatures, and Divination!? H.G

I agree. The more classes we take, the more successful we will be after graduation. I might have a solution worked out for us. When are you going to Diagon Alley? D.M

I'll be staying a night or two at the Leaky Cauldron just before the start of school. Mum and Dad have a dentistry conference at that time. Maybe this year we can meet in that secret room you talked about, the one above Flourish & Blotts? H.G

Like minds think alike Granger... D.M.

xxx

Up the stairs, down the hall, through a door concealed by a shelf of books, we met. Cozy and secretive with a small table and a few chairs, it was made for such meetings.

"Draco! You have grown almost a whole foot over the summer! And you have done something different with your hair! It looks nice!" Granger gasped as she entered the hidden door; a ball of orange fur followed closely behind her. She closed the door.

She lunged forward, arms outstretched, to greet me in her favorite way. Reflexively, I wrapped my arms around her, her curls softly filling my face. She smelled good, perhaps better than usual. Her scent was familiar, comforting, and surprisingly intoxicating. I tightened my hold of her, breathing her in.

Giggling, she let go and stepped back awkwardly. I moved as well, leaning against the table as her cat rubbed against my leg.

"Hello, Crookshanks," I smirked before facing her; she'd grown taller too, and her shape had changed. Her petite figure had developed small curves over the summer.

Most notably, two mounds had grown beneath her shirt. I averted my eyes, focusing on the cat, as my pants began to tighten. Merlin.

I sat down.

"I saw your mother downstairs talking to the shopkeeper. She's gorgeous! She smiled at me." Granger began, sitting down as well.

"Oh yeah, you're lucky that's all she did. Since her yearly visit with Severus, her interest in you has increased. I'm sure she'd love nothing more than a chance to explore your mind."

"Hmm. What did he say to her?" She reached into her shirt, removing the long silver chain and ruby hidden beneath.

"No idea. I see you're wearing the necklace; it suits you."

A faint blush graced her cheeks.

"I'd like to thank her for it someday."

"One day, for now, she is keeping a lookout for us." I mused as Crookshanks jumped into my lap.

"He adores you... I've noticed he is very particular when it comes to people and very protective." She remarked proudly.

"He's part kneazle. They are very intuitive and excellent judges of character...You'll help me keep an eye out for her, won't you, Crookshanks?" It wasn't a question; I knew he would. "I have a surprise for you."

She perked up, curiously raising her eyebrows.

"Do tell..." She grinned eagerly.

"I assume it is still your wish to take all of the classes offered for our year?" I smirked excitedly.

"Of course!" Her eyes widened.

"Have you ever heard of time turners?" Eyes still wide, she nodded vigorously. "Well, Mother has convinced Dumbledore to let us use them for our classes this year."

"I thought the Ministry of Magic controlled all of them." She stated, scrunching her eyebrows together.

"They do, but they lend a few to Hogwarts each year. Mother sent in all the necessary requests and paperwork on our behalf. All that's left is for us to meet with Dumbledore after the start of term feast." I leaned back cockily.

"She's too kind, honestly! Oh, I can't wait!" She shivered excitedly, grinning ear to ear.

"Oh, I almost forgot. I took the liberty of buying all your school supplies. The shopkeeper is holding them for you downstairs."

She nearly fell out of her chair.

She'd have to get used to being spoiled; something told me she never would.

Xxx

As I boarded the Hogwarts Express, I could hardly contain my excitement for the upcoming year. I was thrilled to be back with my friends and Draco.

Unfortunately for Harry, our train ride was anything but ordinary.

xxx

My brain whirled, forming a plan as the train rolled to a stop. I needed to find Draco. Letting Harry and Ron exit the compartment ahead of me, I ducked back in, then quickly wrote to Draco.

Dementors on the Express? What is going on? One of them entered our compartment, and poor Harry fainted! I hope you're okay; let's meet at Myrtle's after we meet with Dumbledore. H.G.

Xxx

"Go on. I don't need you pee brains escorting me to the carriages." I barked at Crabbe and Goyle as they exited our compartment.

The hairs prickled on the back of my neck, as they always did when I had a message waiting for me. I always sensed it; I always knew.

Making sure I was alone; I removed the parchment from my pocket. The corners of my mouth curled upward mischievously. Harry Potter fainted.

Dementors were terrifying, sure, but this wasn't my first experience with them. Never had I felt the urge to faint in their presence.

Finally, perfect saint Potter had a flaw.

I left the train, grinning.

Xxx

"Oy! Zabini! Theo! You'll never guess what I just heard!" I yelled towards them, heading towards the carriages.

They waited up for me just as I hoped they would.

"Alright, bloke, what is it?" Theo asked as I finally caught up with them.

"Yeah, I haven't seen you this bloody excited since you got your Nimbus 2001. What are you on about?" Blaise Zabini chimed in.

"Okay, okay," I stepped between them, hardly able to control my laughter. "So, when those Dementors came through the train, apparently they spent a little extra time in Potter's compartment…."

"Yeah, so?" Blaise retorted.

"Well… the almighty, saint, perfect Potter couldn't handle it! He fainted like a girl!" I laughed stupidly.

"Haaaaaa!" Theo and Blaise joined in.

Xxx

She avoided my eyes at all costs as we walked to Dumbledore's office. Even without her words, I knew by the redness of her ears she was fuming.

"I can't believe you! Teasing Harry like that was extremely childish! I should never have told you." Granger huffed.

"Of course, I teased Potter about fainting. And since the Dementors will be around all year, I might as well warn you that it won't be the last time I tease him." I remarked, amused.

"You are unbelievable!"

"Come on, Grange, what else do you expect me to do? I can't just be nice to people." Rolling my eyes, I approached the gargoyle. "Peppermint stick."

As expected, it began to turn.

"I understand you can't be nice, but do you have to enjoy it so much?" She interjected, pursing her lips.

"I know, I know, I'm a bloody prat. I'm sorry." I pouted unconvincingly. This time, she rolled her eyes.

"You know I'm usually pretty good at pretending to hate you in public, but right now, you're making it especially easy." She quipped, squinting her eyes at me as we walked up the stairs.

She tripped, falling forward. I whipped toward her, instinctively hooking my arm around her waist. I caught her just in time.

"Got you, Granger," I smirked, pulling her to me.

She scoffed, removing herself from my arm and continuing up the stairs.

"Merlin, come on. Quit being mad. You know me. You know I'll quit being an ass one day."

That caught her attention; she paused, waiting for me to continue.

"One day...when Father and Aunt Bella are gone."

We continued into the Headmaster's office.

"You've never mentioned your Aunt Bella."

"For good reason, she's vile. Just as clever as Mother but twice as evil as Father. She was You-Know-Who's biggest fan back in the day."

"Where is she now?"

"Azkaban, for now... If Sirius can escape, it won't be long until she finds a way out too…." I groaned, looking around for any sign of our headmaster. "I suppose he is still at the feast."

"I suppose he is. We should have a seat while we wait." We settled into our chairs before she began again. "Wait a minute; you said Sirius like you know him. Sirius Black. You're related to him, aren't you!" She gasped.

"Technically, he's a cousin or something. I never met him, though."

The office doors flew open, loudly hitting the wall on either side. I froze, clearing my mind and building my wall defensively. Dumbledore, McGonagall, and Severus glided in. We stood nervously facing them.

"Sit, sit, we have much to discuss." Dumbledore motioned, stepping around his desk. He conjured up two more chairs for McGonagall and Severus beside him.

"I trust you both had a relaxing summer," Dumbledore said, looking back and forth at Granger and me.

"Yes," I said curtly.

"Yes, thank you," she said.

"Perfect, perfect. Now it has come to my attention that you wish to take all the courses for 3rd-year students. You do realize what a tremendous workload that will be?"

"Professor, if any two students could handle more work, it would be us," Granger said, reassuring him.

I nodded my agreement, uncomfortable in McGonagall's presence. Did she know our secret? My head throbbed.

"Yes, yes, you two were at the top of your classes in grades the past two years. Isn't that right, Severus?" The headmaster continued.

"Neck and neck," Severus snapped, glaring at me unblinkingly.

I could feel him testing my defenses, searching for a weak spot. I held firm. What did he want?

"However, it is not your worthiness that concerns me; it's your... curiosity. Time is a very tender thing. Awful things happen to witches and wizards who meddle with time, terrible things. It is for this reason that I do not decide to give two 13-year-olds a means to harm themselves or others lightly." Dumbledore brutally emphasized the last word; Granger gulped beside me. "Minerva, what are your thoughts regarding Miss Granger."

"She's sharp as a whip; her cleverness holds no bounds. She has a good head on her shoulders, and I believe she is responsible enough to handle a Time Turner - with one stipulation. Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley cannot know about it or anyone for that matter, especially if they are to share a single Time Turner." She pursed her lips. "That, Albus, is a decision I wish you would reconsider."

Share?

"Very well then that is decided. Minerva, please take Miss Granger to your office and have her sign the contract and get her acquainted with the Time Turner, etc."

"As you wish," Minerva responded ruefully.

Granger's eyes darted to mine nervously before she followed McGonagall out of the office. We both knew it was my turn to be on the stand, and Severus would not be as kind. Once they left, the headmaster spoke again.

"Severus, your thoughts?"

"Albus, with your permission, I would like to ensure my Godson's mind is still in the right place…." Severus drawled as he and Dumbledore exchanged glances, "I assure you his mother would approve."

His question was a formality; he wasn't asking for permission. He'd been attempting to enter my mind for minutes now, but not at his full force.

I braced myself, knowing exactly what would happen next. He wanted in, and I had no choice; for him to trust me, I would have to let him. Slowly exhaling through my mouth, I counted backward; I doubled my protections.

3

"Severus, I hardly think that's necessary, but if you must…." Dumbledore drawled.

2

"Legilimens."

1

Severus' spell crashed into my mental fortress without mercy; grinding my teeth together, I held firm. I fought his advances, arbitrarily showing him my strength. My head seared. He punished me for showing off.

I held my ground for all of 60 seconds before I let go, letting him penetrate my thoughts... Soon he was swimming through my mind, memory after memory. He saw several things, moments between Mother and me and a few with Granger. I cringed as he viewed me holding her in the secret room of Flourish and Blotts.

That was private.

With the last of my energy, I forced him out and built my walls back out, guarding that memory of us. I was too late; I knew he'd seen it. I didn't care. He'd gone too far. Having succeeded in ridding him from my head, I glared back at him. Surprise flitted across his eyes for a second, but only that, before he turned to speak to his superior.

"I believe he can be trusted."

"Just as I suspected. Wonderful. Well, Severus, take him to your office and have him sign the contract."

Xxx

That contract was circuitous... D.M.

It's just to protect the school in case anything goes wrong, which it won't. We are both going to be very responsible with this thing. I thought we would each get our own, but sharing will be much more fun! H.G.

We'll undoubtedly see a lot more of each other this year, that's for sure... I think I have a plan figured out... Ancient Runes ends just before lunch. We will go from that class to the emptying Divination classroom. Once that classroom is empty, we spin the turner once. Afterward, we break for lunch, then on to our afternoon classes like normal. On Fridays, we will do the same thing with Charms and Runes. All the other classes seem to fit in place. Am I missing anything? D.M.

Sounds right. Oh, and Wednesday, we have both Divination and Arithmancy during first period. I think we should use it for naps as well, especially with Astronomy happening at midnight on Tuesdays! H.G.

Naps would be much easier if your bed wasn't on the polar opposite end of the castle from mine. We'll waste more time and energy going back and forth than we'll gain... D.M.

What if we keep pillows and such in Moaning Myrtle's bathroom? It's close to most of our classes; we could nap there. Trust me, with all these classes and homework, we'll need to find rest when we can. H.G.

Xxx

Over the next few weeks, we adjusted to our new schedules. Working with time was extremely difficult, but we were brilliant. We were busier but spending more time together than in the last two years combined. We were as thick as thieves, yet things were different. She was often annoyingly moody and tense, yet still the only girl I had the patience for. She was changing somehow, subtly every day.

Her lips were redder, fuller, and generally more noticeable. Her hips were more rounded. The mounds underneath her shirt caught my eye more and more. I was intrigued by her. Sometimes I caught myself staring.

Worse I found it nearly impossible to control the organ growing just below my belt.

Maybe I was the one changing.

Xxx

Things were...different. I saw things differently; more specifically, I saw Draco differently. He'd grown so much taller; his shoulders had broadened. His skin had tanned over the summer in a way that contrasted handsomely with his blonde hair. His voice had deepened... I felt an unnatural shyness in his presence that had never shown itself before; I felt hot around him constantly.

Daily I went through a whirlwind of emotions that entirely revolved around him. He was oblivious.

xxx

"Divination isn't exactly what I thought it would be…." I told him as we sat studying on the floor in Myrtle's.

"She's no seer, just a lonely woman who's always doped up on opium tea or tipsy on brandy. Pathetic, really."

"Opium tea would explain a lot..." I mused, several of Professor Trelawney's odd behaviors coming to mind.

"I vote we drop her class, agreed?" Draco asked.

As much as I wanted to, I was no quitter.

"We should hold out for a couple more weeks." I offered him as he raised an eyebrow at me. "I'm not saying no; I'm just saying that we have to give it a fair shot."

"Fine. At least Hagrid's class should be interesting tomorrow. I overheard him say he has a 'big surprise' for us. I hope it's a dragon."

"Draco, don't be daft. They are not going to let Hagrid bring a dragon onto school grounds…again. It's bad enough that we have Dementors here." I scoffed, rolling my eyes.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah."

Xxx

The crowd cheered Harry on as he dismounted Buckbeak. I watched Draco march towards the beast.

"You're not so tough, are you?" Draco laughed cockily, strutting towards Buckbeak, breaking every blasted rule Hagrid had just taught us.

Oh no… Oh no!

"You're nothing but a giant chicken-" Draco continued.

I lunged forward, but I was too slow, he was too far, and I was too late. Buckbeak screeched, rearing up on his hind legs above Draco.

NO!

He couldn't get away, and I couldn't save him. I inhaled sharply, filling my lungs to the brink, choking as I watched in horror.

Without remorse, Buckbeak struck him down, his long, sharp talons slashing through Draco's arm.

"Hagrid, you have to take him to the hospital wing!" I screamed as Draco lay on the ground writhing in pain.

Blood soaked through his white shirt and began pooling on the ground beneath him. He was losing too much, too fast.

Oh Godric, why did he have to be so thick-headed? Why couldn't he have followed the instruction and not been an arrogant fool!?

"I'm the teacher; I'll do it." Hagrid bellowed nervously, lifting Draco off the ground. "Class dismissed!"

I wanted to follow, it hurt not to, but I couldn't. Not with Harry and Ron there. My mind raced, and I clutched the time turner through my shirt...I could make certain this never happened.

No, too risky; I could get expelled for using the turner for anything but classes and sleep. Not to mention there was no way for me to get to him before this class...not without past me seeing future me... My head throbbed just considering it.

Draco would have to learn his lesson the hard way.

Never insult a hippogriff.

Xxx

I lay sleepless in the infirmary, unable to get comfortable with my arm in a sling. Regret and self-loathing wracked my mind at a million miles a minute. What was I thinking? I was an absolute idiot! I'd really fucked things up this time, no thanks to Madame Pomfrey.

Her bloody big mouth was going to be the death of us.

Something stirred across the stone floor, interrupting my thoughts. I searched the room for signs of movement only to find it dark and empty. The sound continued closer and closer to my cot.

"Who's there?!" I demanded, clumsily reaching for my wand with my uninjured limb. My movements were weak, slow, and useless.

"Hush, it's me." Granger bossed, removing Potter's invisibility cloak and revealing herself.

"Granger, you almost gave me a heart attack!"

"Somehow, I don't think that would have been the worst thing that happened to you today."

Reality hit... She didn't know it yet, but she was right. Granger was always bloody right. I'd take a heart attack over what had happened and what was to come any day.

Rien l'est éternel. Nothing lasts forever.

"Granger, I screwed up, bad." I began.

"Obviously! You heard Hagrid; hippogriffs are very proud creatures. You're lucky you didn't lose your arm completely." She lectured.

"Forget my arm. Despite my threats, Pomfrey felt it necessary to inform my parents of the incident." I recoiled cautiously into my pillows, bracing myself for all possible reactions she might have.

"Parents? As in plural?" Her eyes widened, and her jaw dropped. "You mean-?"

"Father is on his way now..."

Her hands moved up into her hair pensively. "What should we do? What will he do?"

"It's too late. He's already visited the Ministry and spoken with the Committee for the Disposal of Dangerous Creatures... There will be a trial, but Father's seeking the death penalty. Knowing him, Buckbeak will die, with or without the trial."

"Godric, no! We can't let this happen!" Her eyes glistened painfully as she covered her mouth with her hands.

"It gets worse." I sighed.

"How?!" She exclaimed before raising her eyebrows in exasperated recognition. "No..."

"He's demanding they sack Hagrid."

"Dumbledore would never let that happen. He just can't! I'll speak with him myself if I have to!" She reeled, face flushing.

She scrunched her nose furiously, and I couldn't help but smirk. I loved it when she did that.

"Do you mean talk to Dumbledore or Father?" I challenged her.

"Either! This absolutely cannot happen." She spat, eyebrows cinched.

She was a Gryffindor through and through. It was a shame that her intense bravery was no match for Father's cruelty and endless resources.

I brooded silently. She was angry at Father for now...but it would all circle back soon enough. I'm the fuck up who caused all of this.

"Is there anything your Mother can do?" She asked desperately.

"She tried, but Father won't rest until at least one of two things happens. Buckbeak gets the death penalty, or Hagrid loses his job. Mother tried to convince him the first option was enough, but..."

"No, oh no! This will destroy Hagrid… Either option is an absolute nightmare. I wish there were something we could do…." She whined, twisting her fingers.

She sat on the edge of my cot, staring at her hands.

"How's your arm?" she asked after a while.

"Not great. Buckbeak's claws cut through to the bone and tore open a couple of veins. It will heal fine, though. Madame Pomfrey stitched it up and gave me a blood-replenishing potion and a tonic for the pain. If I'm lucky, she'll let me leave sometime tomorrow. All I need now is something to help me sleep."

She smiled at me, reached into her pajama pants pocket, and removed a small vial.

"I figured you might need this. Dreamless Sleep potion; I use it from time to time. " She said, handing me the bottle.

"I really don't deserve you."

She blushed, averting her eyes. Instantly I regretted my words.

"Well, I guess I better get going. Lunch in our usual spot tomorrow?" She offered shyly, meeting my eyes again.

Relief dispersed through my nostrils.

"Assuming Pomfrey lets me out of here, I'll be there."

Xxx

Just as we'd planned, I headed to Myrtle's at lunchtime, assuming Draco would be there.

I was welcomed by the familiar sight of our pillows, blankets, and various school supplies stored in the abandoned lavatory, but no Draco. I grabbed a pillow and prepared to sit when the silent bathroom filled with horrid retching.

I froze, and my skin crawled; I was not alone.

With a few gags, the retching continued for a moment, then the loo flushed, and a latch clicked open.

Unfreezing, I grabbed my wand and jerked my head towards the stalls. Greasy pale skin and green eyes faced mine.

Pansy Parkinson spotted me, pillow in hand, as she wiped her mouth. Non-nonchalantly walking over to the sinks, she spoke.

"The rest of the Gryffindors finally kicked you out, eh? It's about time. I'm surprised it took them this long. I wouldn't have lasted a week sharing a dorm with you." She quipped, washing her hands.

I opened my mouth to argue, but nothing came out. How could I possibly explain this?

"I can't wait to tell my fellow Slytherins that the mudblood is sleeping in the loo. I'm sure it will be just the news I need to brighten Draco's day. I'm going to fetch him from the Hospital Wing, you know. Thanks to that oaf and that murderous hippogriff, my poor Drakey needs me to care for him." She bragged carelessly, checking her teeth in the mirror.

Heat consumed my face, and my knuckles went white around my wand as a few choice spells flew through my head.

"I'm sure the repugnant smell of vomit that is no doubt seeping from your mouth will also brighten Drakey's day," I smirked, and Pansy froze, frowning. "A little advice, though, you might want to change your robes before you head to the Hospital Wing. You've got bile, just there," I pointed with my nose and a grimace. "Nasty."

She gasped, frantically examining her robes.

"But what would I know about the likes of Purebloods? I'm just a Mudblood, after all." I finished with a smirk.

Storming out of the bathroom with a huff, Pansy yelled, "Speak a word of this to anyone, and I'll have your tongue, Granger!"

"Likewise, Parkinson!" I asserted forcefully.

I knew she wouldn't dare speak a word now that I knew her secret.

xxx

At dinner, she was all over him. She'd changed her robes, cleaned herself up, and even added a green bow to her hair. She fawned over Draco's injured arm.

My stomach boiled uncontrollably. That stupid pig-nosed, bulimic cow!

"Does it hurt terribly, Draco?" She asked him, caressing his shoulder.

"Another minute or two, and I would have lost my arm..." He bragged to Pansy and the rest of his posse.

He was eating their attention up as if nothing was wrong. As if it wasn't his fault in the first place. What a prat.

I bundled up my anger, compartmentalized it for later, and joined Harry and Ron at the Gryffindor table. I ignored Draco the entire weekend.

Xxx

There we were, in our usual spot, having a spat. We argued a lot more lately, and it was infuriating; I blamed the lack of sleep that came with our heavy course load.

"How can you say it's not even slightly suspicious that Professor Lupin's biggest fear is a full moon? AND he's been missing classes all too often!" I demanded as we stood in Moaning Myrtle's bathroom.

"That's not what I meant, and you know it!" she snapped back. "I just think we should gather a little more information before we go around accusing our teachers of being dangerous creatures!"

"How?" I countered, "Because I am definitely not going to risk following him around during a full moon just to gather more 'information'! People have a right to know who or what is teaching them!"

"Fine! Go on, Malfoy!" She challenged, speaking my last name like a curse. "Tell your father to add Lupin to his list of teachers to fire and creatures to murder! That's what your best at, isn't it?"

Ouch. Her words burned. I exhaled, defeated; she shrunk back, rethinking her words.

"Do you really think that little of me?" I spoke up, not waiting for her answer. "How long will you punish me for what happened with Buckbeak? I understand your anger, but I refuse to let you take it out on me forever. I'm not one of your stupid friends that you can boss around and control, and I will not be treated as such."

I took a deep heated breath in, then choked on it as her body crashed into mine, her arms wrapped around my neck. I stepped back, catching myself as she threatened my balance with her abrupt hug.

"I'm sorry, Draco, I didn't mean it. You know I think the world of you. I just...I believe that Dumbledore wouldn't let Lupin teach here unless he was certain the students and staff would be safe. Besides, werewolves are people too, and Lupin is the best Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher we have ever had! I would hate to lose him."

She had a point…

"Let's just drop this for now." I sighed, resigning from my soap box. As much as I liked her when she was angry, I did not enjoy arguing with her about this.

"Brilliant." She exhaled, releasing me.

"So, um, are you going to Hogsmeade tomorrow?" I offered.

"Yeah, of course. We made plans to meet there, remember?"

I'd completely forgotten.

"Well…" I muttered, running my fingers through my hair, "Crabbe and Goyle will be there. Plus, I told this girl Pansy that I would go to some place called Madame Puddifoot's Tea Shop with her."

Granger's nose twitched angrily. She was not pleased with my admission. Great. It was just tea, for Salazar's sake, with pukey Pansy of all people!

"Oh, of course. Well… I'll be going with Ronald, so I will be far too busy to meet with you anyway."

"Without Potter?" I asked, oddly hoping she'd say no.

"Yes, without Harry. What does it matter to you!?" she snapped.

Damn, she was on edge.

"I don't understand why you'd want to go with Weasel...alone."

"He's my friend too, you know!"

I could see tears building up in her eyes now. Was she seriously about to cry? Can we not have a bloody normal conversation anymore?

"You're the one who said he's a halfwit you only tolerate, for Potter's sake."

The tears broke loose, falling down her face.

"Well, things can change, Malfoy!" she yelled.

Excuse me?

"What? Granger, what the bloody hell is going on with you?" I scrambled, not knowing what to say or how to act.

"Draco Malfoy, you are both ignorant and blind. Have fun with that pig-nosed girl!" She stormed off without another word.

I didn't understand what had just happened, but I canceled my plans with Parkinson. I needed to be free to keep an eye on her and Weasel bee at Hogsmeade.

Xxx

The next time I saw Granger, we were lying on the floor of the Great Hall in cots. Apparently, the infamous Sirius Black had attempted to break into the Gryffindor common room; now, all the students were forced to sleep in the Great Hall while the Dementors searched the castle.

The heads decided it would promote unity between the houses to arrange all the students at random. A tactic, I suspected, that was meant to distract us all from fear. Dumbledore's idea, no doubt.

We all drew numbers to determine which cot would be ours; by complete luck, our cots ended up next to each other. I knew I couldn't talk to her here, not in front of the whole school. But that didn't mean I couldn't look at her. Sneakily.

I risked a glance over. She was lying on her back, looking up at the ceiling, which was bewitched to look like the Milky Way. Was she blatantly ignoring me or just mesmerized by the scenery?

This wasn't the first time we'd slept next to each other; several times a week, we napped in Moaning Myrtle's bathroom. This was, however, the first time I'd really studied her and appreciated her features.

Her face was calm, serene even; lightly freckled but aesthetically proportionate. I gazed from her hair to her forehead, down her nose, to her plump pink lips. I kept looking from her chin down her neck and chest. Whoa, had those always been there? Where there was once a flat chest, there were now supple mounds. I felt the urge to touch her precious flesh.

A bulge grew below my hips; my length was hardening, thickening, and elongating. I quickly rolled over onto my stomach, hiding it before anyone could see.

Why now? Why here, of all the bloody places? I slammed my head against the pillow, facing away from Granger. It was the only way. I was now facing an obese Hufflepuff girl who was drooling in her sleep.

The thing I was trying to hide began to shrink down to its normal size as I watched slobber drop onto the girl's cot.

Disgusted, I quickly shut my eyes and willed myself to sleep.

Xxx

After about a week of the silent treatment, Granger finally got over the Pansy thing. We were now back to our usual selves.

I told you so. Your beloved Professor Lupin is a werewolf! The essay my Severus assigned proves it. I think "Make sure to put extra emphasis on identifying them" were his exact words. He hates Lupin. This was his sneaky way of outing him. D.M.

Okay, okay. Fine, you were right. Professor Lupin is definitely a werewolf. I'm sorry I doubted you. However, that was awful of Snape to try and blow his cover. Luckily you and I are probably the only ones who figured it out. Why does Snape hate him so much? H.G.

He won't tell me much. He isn't much of a sharer, at least not with me. Mother won't tell me either. It must be something that happened when they went to school together. Anyways we need to finish the essay quickly so that we can go to the quidditch game tomorrow. D.M.

I hear there will be a horrible thunderstorm tomorrow during the game. It is barbaric how quidditch goes on, no matter the weather. H.G.

Maybe Potter will get struck by lightning. Hey, will you proofread my essay tomorrow after the game? I can do the same to yours too if you like. D.M.

Oh, stop. And that's a brilliant idea, Draco. Meet at Myrtle's after? H.G.

xxx

I didn't bother trying to meet her after the game. It was pointless; she'd be in the hospital wing with Potter. His fainting spell had nearly cost him his life. What was with him and Dementors?

Xxx

A couple of weekends later, we wrote to each other after returning from Hogsmeade.

Are you able to meet me during dinner? I have so much to tell you! H.G.

Yeah. Everything good? D.M.

No, I'm fine. I must tell you some things about Harry and Sirius Black! Got to go, see you during dinner! H.G.

Xxx

"So, let me get this straight, Sirius Black is Potter's Godfather and also the reason his parents are dead?" I asked, still trying to process the information. I honestly knew nothing about my distant cousin...are Harry and I... related?

"Yes." She said with a nod.

"And Harry is now in possession of a map that shows him everyone in the castle?" I asked, a bit worried.

"Yes. So, we are going to have to really follow his schedule when it comes to us meeting."

"How do we do that?"

"Well," she stated in a very matter-of-fact way, "we have to meet when he probably won't look at the map; for example, during meals, classes, or while he's at quidditch practice."

"Okay, I think we can make that work. I almost forgot, I have some, err, news for you too."

"Well, go on then," she prompted, mockingly tapping her foot.

"I, uh, Hagrid's hearing is tomorrow."

"Oh." She muttered, scrunching her eyebrows together. "I don't know what to hope for. Either way is awful. Hagrid getting fired would really set him back a long way. But Buckbeak getting killed would hurt him too."

"All we can do is wait."

Xxx

Buckbeak is going to be executed after the holidays. H.G.

I know; Father sent me a letter boasting about it. I am sorry, Granger. At least Hagrid gets to spend Christmas with him. D.M.

Xxx

On Christmas morning, I awoke to a great deal of presents. Half of them were obviously wrapped by my parents; notoriously bad gift wrappers. The other half were from someone else, and I knew exactly who. The silver wrapping paper and the red ribbons alerted me to the fact that Narcissa Malfoy had gone way overboard.

I opened mum and dad's gifts first, my favorite Muggle things, novels, clothes, CDs, etc., eyeing the other presents suspiciously.

"Hermione darling, aren't Gryffindor's colors red & gold?" My father asked.

"Yes, daddy. I think Mrs. Malfoy likes mixing mine and Draco's house colors. Like with the necklace she bought me, remember?"

"Oh yes, very well. Let's see what you got!" He said excitedly.

I opened box after box; silver silk pajamas, a set of wizarding encyclopedias, treats for Crookshanks, a fancy bottle of vanilla perfume, and a load of new school supplies. Wow, for someone who had never actually met me, she knew me well!

"Hermione dear, there's one more. See? A green one just there." Mum said.

As I looked at the small green box with silver ribbon, I knew it was from Draco.

I quickly opened it to find another box inside, a ring box. I lifted its lid and gasped.

Inside was a thin silver ring with a small yet stunning ruby in the center. It matched my necklace perfectly. I turned it from side to side, admiring how the ruby sparkled.

"How sweet! Mum, daddy, look! Draco bought me a ring to match my necklace!"

"That's a rather serious gift to receive from a young man…." I overheard Mum whisper to Dad.

Xxx

On the train ride back to Hogwarts, we met in the undesirable compartment next to the bathrooms.

"Draco!" She said, wrapping her arms around me.

I hugged her back a bit too tightly; the sensation of her small mounds against my chest set something off inside me. Waking the monster in my pants.

"Here sit," I urged, pushing her down onto the bench behind her. And then immediately sat down on the bench behind me, masking my boner.

"Are you okay?" She asked.

"Yes, yeah, oh yeah, I just felt like sitting." I struggled.

"Oh, okay…" She mused unconvinced, "Well, how was your New Years? I'm sorry I didn't write much. I have been reading the encyclopedias your mum bought me!"

"It was great. Mother and I worked an awful lot on Occlumency. I see your ring fits perfectly." I said to her.

Remembering the brutal bouts of occlumency training luckily killed my hard-on.

"Oh yes, Draco, it's perfect! I love it so much. Thank you!" she exclaimed with an excited smile.

"I made sure to pick a stone that wouldn't draw too much attention but still looked pretty."

"You did a wonderful job Draco; it is absolutely stunning. I promise I'll get you back one day. I'm saving my galleons."

"That's not necessary, I assure you. I have everything I need and more." I smiled.

Xxx

"I think I see the grim in here, Draco," Theo muttered while examining the crystal ball in front of him.

"Shut it, Theo; no, you don't. This class is a waste of time."

"I think it's fun; we get to sit here, drink tea, and make up fortunes all day."

"Yeah, but we aren't learning anything valuable. You can't teach someone to be a seer. You have to be born one." I rolled my eyes.

Before Theo could respond, a loud thunk caught my attention.

Locating the source of the noise, I spotted Granger storming out of the classroom. Potter and Weasel watched her exit, too, looking just as surprised as I was. I waited for the class to continue with their "studies" before I made my move.

"Cunfundo," I whispered with my wand pointed under the table at Theo.

Luckily our seats were at the back of the class, so I could sneak out unnoticed.

I went to Moaning Myrtle's bathroom, hoping I would find her.

She was seated on the floor, leaning against the wall with her arms crossed. She looked furious.

"Want to tell me what happened in there, Granger?" I asked, taking a seat next to her.

She didn't respond, just stared blankly ahead. I was going to have to force her to tell me. Clearly, something was wrong, and I needed to fix that.

I did the only thing I could think to do; I started to tickle her.

"Ha! What are you-? haha! Draco! Stop! Hahaha Okay. OKAY! I'll tell you what happened!" She finally cried, and I relented in my attack on her sides.

"Okay then," I prompted her. "go on."

She took a deep breath in and out before beginning.

"That crazy old bat has absolutely no sense of social awareness, nor does she have a single insightful bone in her body. She told me my heart was as dry as my books. That I was like an old maid. Meaning I'm hopelessly devoid of love." She said, her angry face returning briefly before disappearing into a smirk. "It doesn't matter; I'm through with her class."

I put my arm around her and pulled her closer.

"Hermione, don't give that lunatic a second thought. You have the biggest heart out of anyone I have ever known; hell, you deal with Weasley daily."

"Oh hush, Draco," She laughed.

Xxx

Several weeks later, it was time for Buckbeak's beheading. I made a point to go, or at least be on the sidelines; knowing this was my fault and how upset it made Granger filled me with a guilty obligation.

I walked out of a back entrance of Hogwarts towards Hagrid's hut, stopping at a set of large stones; from there, I had a perfect view, as well as a great hiding place.

"Draco! We came to see the show too! Look, I even brought a camera!" a voice yelled behind me. I turned around to see Theo and Crabbe running toward me.

"What the bloody hell are you two doing here? Give me that." I barked, taking the camera—stupid, idiotic bastard.

"I've never seen a beheading!" Goyle grinned excitedly.

Before I could respond with an insult, three more people joined us.

"You foul, loathsome, evil, little cockroach!" Granger yelled, charging down the hill and pointing her wand at me. She wasn't serious, was she? The camera in my hand did look suspicious, but she knew better.

Potter and Weasel drew their wands too. They didn't know any better...and I knew just the curse to get them off my back. Clutching my wand, I moved to strike them down.

"Hermione, he's not worth it." Weasel mused snidely.

My lips parted just in time for Granger's fist to pummel into my nose. My head slammed back into the stone behind me.

What the fuck? Momentarily stunned, my hands moved towards my face as hot metallic wetness made its way down my chin.

"AGGHh!" I choked out, livid, glaring at her painfully as remorse flecked her watering eyes. Bloody fucking hormones, she was mental! "Come on!" I shouted to Crabbe and Theo.

I didn't look back.

Xxx

After leaving the Hospital Wing, I made my way to dinner, hoping for her sake I didn't see Granger or her friends there. As I made my way towards the stairs, I noticed Professor Lupin exiting a side door on the floor below.

He looked around very frantically before disappearing through the dark doorway. That was...oddly suspicious.

Must be a full moon.

Continuing towards the stairs, I spied yet another teacher sneaking off into the night. Just as Lupin had done, Severus checked for followers, then headed out onto the grounds. What on earth were they doing?

I descended the staircase, intrigue, and curiosity getting the best of me.

I followed my Severus, as he followed Lupin, across the grounds towards the Whomping Willow.

Lupin approached the deadly tree without hesitation, despite its flailing branches rearing up to attack him. He dodged them with ease and made his way to the trunk. Suddenly the tree froze, and the once dangerous branches stood petrified.

I watched, stunned, as Lupin walked underneath the tree as if there were a staircase beneath it.

Where was he going?

Severus followed him, and I followed Severus…

Cautiously making my way between the frozen branches, I spotted a hole at its base. Roots formed adequate stairs inside, leading deep underground.

I'd come too far to turn back now.

I made my way down into the darkness; my eyes adjusted as an eerie draft chilled my skin. Wherever this tunnel led, there was an opening on the other side... I paused, listening for any signs of Severus or Lupin. Nothing, nothing but the hushed howling of the wind.

Trailing my hand along the wall with one hand and holding my wand at the ready with the other, I continued.

I'd trekked through the tunnel for a quarter mile or so when a faint light began to appear at the opposite end. Finally, I quickened my pace. The light grew broader and brighter as the tunnel opened into a building of some sort. Wood creaked and cracked around me as the wind ruffled the peeling wallpaper in what was the dustiest place I'd ever encountered. The light I'd followed came from the moon, seeping through the many holes and cracks in the walls.

Assessing my surroundings, I saw no apparent exit, only boarded-up windows, deteriorating walls, and a rickety staircase... It didn't take me long to figure out where I was—the Shrieking Shack.

Angry voices echoed down the stairs; darting my eyes upwards, I spotted an open door on the second-floor landing. I held my wand tightly and, as quietly as possible, made my way up the steps.

The yells continued as I reached the last step, then a crash.

"Expelliarmus!" someone shouted, and I ducked down against the wall as things escalated in the room on the other side. I knew that voice...

"Tell me about Peter Pettigrew," the same voice demanded. Potter?

Other voices spoke up too, one familiar, one not. I crept further down the hall, towards the open doorway, to a crack in the wall just big enough for me to peek through. Darting back and forth from one corner to the other, I spotted Potter in the center of the room, wand drawn, a crazed look in his eyes; my jaw dropped. Granger? In the corner behind Potter, Granger stood, terror seizing her face. What were they doing here?

On the opposite end of Potter's wand was Professor Lupin, holding his wand but not pointing it at Potter. Searching the room further, I recognized a pair of black leather shoes and a mound of black robes... Severus lay sprawled across the floor.

Another figure entered my sight, closer than the others, too close to identify his face. His filthy bare feet led to tattered black and white stripes and symbols I'd only seen in one place. Azkaban. The prisoner stepped back towards Lupin, laughing maniacally; Sirius Black in the flesh.

Heart thudding, I wracked my head for a plan and watched through the cracks. If only Granger could get closer to the doorway...

I jumped in my skin as Sirius Black snatched Weasel's rat, then threw him down on the ground with a vengeance. With a twisted sneer, he pointed his wand at the wretched creature, throwing silent spells and curses at it as it scurried across the floor. The more he missed, the more he sneered as the fat rat ran across the room; finally, he got him. Suddenly the rat was changing, growing as it ran until a fat dirty man replaced it. I blinked in disbelief as the animagus was revealed, pressing my face to the fall to see more. My eyes widened as I watched Black and Lupin point their wands at the fat man I now knew was Peter Pettigrew, the true betrayer of the Potters.

They closed in on the obese man, ready to utter an Unforgivable.

"Wait; let's give him to the Dementors," Harry exclaimed.

I merged myself with the shadows, slowly backing away from the doorway as those within the room moved.

Lupin exited first, dragging Pettigrew by the collar behind him. Next, Potter and Black assisted Weasley, bleeding profusely from his ankle, down the stairs. Finally, Granger walked out.

I made my move swiftly and silently; jumping up, I cupped my hand over her mouth, muffling her protests, and pushed her back into the room she came from.

"Are you okay?" I whispered.

"Yes, what are you doing here!?" she demanded incredulously.

"I followed Severus. Is this the Shrieking Shack?"

"Yes, it is; I better get going before they notice I am missing."

"Okay, I'll get Severus."

"Be careful," she whispered before she left.

I turned to the floor where Severus lay in a distorted heap.

"Renerverate."

With a gasp, he launched himself up into a seated position.

"What are you doing here?! Where is Black?" He demanded.

"Severus, listen. Peter Pettigrew is alive. Black and Lupin are taking him to the castle to let the Dementors have him." He squinted at me in disbelief. "Get up; I'll show you."

He eyed me pensively before speaking at last.

"Let's go; you should NOT be here." He said, finding his wand and standing up.

He led the way out of the room, down the stairs, and through the tunnel.

As I emerged from the tunnel and stepped onto the grass in front of the Whomping Willow, Severus jerked me aside, nearly knocking me down; I collided with Granger, and she wrapped her arms around mine, pulling me against her.

Then I saw it.

Facing us hungrily, not 10 feet away, was a fully-grown werewolf.

Severus lunged in front of us, swinging his arms out protectively. I stepped backward between Granger's legs, urging her to move, but she froze.

With a heated growl, the werewolf leaped towards us, claws outstretched; he struck Severus, knocking him and the rest of us to the ground. Another growl came from behind us, revealing a matted black dog. The two beasts eyed each other aggressively. The dog moved first, jumping up to snap at the werewolf's neck, forcing him backward and away from us.

Her arms still wrapped around mine; she found my hands with hers as we watched the two beasts fight.

The werewolf threw the whimpering dog across the ground and faced us again. Fuck!

"Awoooooooooo, awwoooooooooooooo!" something, somewhere howled.

The werewolf looked up towards the noise and sniffed the air. Forgetting us, he ran towards it; the black dog chased after him.

"Sirius!" Potter yelled, following the dog.

Granger moved to chase after him, but I held back. This was our chance to escape.

Severus acted first; despite a gash across his chest, he lifted Weasley, who had apparently fainted, up and yelled to Granger and me.

"Don't just stand there; get to the castle, NOW!"

We took off, running towards the stone fortress as fast as our legs would carry us, looking behind us to ensure the beast wasn't chasing us.

The closer we got, the colder we felt until the sweat beading my brow began to freeze. A near debilitating sense of unease settled over us, and the sky grew dark. I looked up. Hundreds of dementors flew above us, blocking out the moon with their robes, chilling us to the bone.

"They're going after Sirius!" Granger yelled and pointed back to where we came from.

"Get inside, NOW!" Severus ordered as we approached an entrance to the castle.

We didn't stop running, even after we'd made it inside; hand in hand, we raced to the Hospital Wing. Severus laid Weaselbee, now regaining consciousness, down on one of the cots as Madame Pomfrey ran towards us. Everyone spoke up at once.

"Severus, what has happened?!" Madame Pomfrey exclaimed.

"Why are you holding Malfoy's hand!?" Ron demanded, rubbing his eyes.

"Dog bite," Severus answered, stepping between Weasel and Pomfrey. "Don't heal him yet; I need a moment. Draco leave so I can alter his memory of you." Severus replied.

I pulled Granger out of the infirmary. Once we were clear of the exit and around the corner, we stopped, panting heavily. Labored breaths dragged in and out of my lungs as her chest slammed into mine, her arms seeking comfort around my neck. Instinctively I held her to me, protectively even. Our chests still heaving.

"That was so frightening! And Harry is still out there!" Granger cried into my shoulder. "We have to do something!"

"Severus will handle it," I promised her, hoping it wasn't a lie.

Sure enough, as we held each other, my Godfather came out of the infirmary and ran towards the nearest exit.

"See?" I smirked as I stroked her soft hair, "Told you so."

Xxx

When Severus returned a while later with Potter's limp body, I knew it was time for me to go.

"I better head to the dungeons now," I told her; I'd risked too much already. "You're safe now. Your friends are too."

"I wish you could stay." she pouted, her pink lip quivering slightly.

Without thinking, I leaned in, moving my face into her, covering her pink lips with my own. Holding them there until she relaxed into me, melting her lips into mine. She wasn't prepared for the kiss; honestly, neither was I, but it was worth it.

With unmatched satisfaction filling my veins, I released her.

"Write to me when everything is done."

Then with a nod from her, I made my way to the dungeons.

Xxx

Draco! Dumbledore told Harry and me to go back in time, and we saved Sirius and Buckbeak! I must tell you everything! Meet me tomorrow after lunch! H.G.

xxx

"So not only did you ride Buckbeak, but you also set a "murderer" free? Merlin, Granger, what can't you do?" I teased her after she regaled me with the tales of her adventure.

"Oh, stop it!" She laughed. "But honestly, I hope Pettigrew is caught soon, for Harry's sake."

"You guys did a good thing, setting him free. Perhaps one day, I'll get to meet him. He's one of the few good people ever to come out of Mother's side of the family."

"Is that right? I hope you get that chance, Draco." She smiled kindly.

Xxx

Once exams were over, the school year at an end, and our Time Turner happily returned, I sat on the Hogwarts Express, dizzied by the events of the year. Something had shifted.

Werewolves, basilisks, dementors, and three-headed dogs were nothing compared to the risk I'd taken with her; with three years of secret glances, notes, and meetings, we had implicated ourselves, our friends, and our families.

I knew the stakes were high, I knew the danger, but I was hooked, obsessed even.

I thought I was just allured by the secrecy, intrigued by the risk, or even simply entertained by the uncertainty of it all...I thought I was capable of withdrawing at any time, dropping the narrative, and living my life like she'd never happened.

I couldn't admit it out loud, and I hardly let myself think it, but I knew. She'd become something. Something...important. Something necessary.