The Checkout Chick

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    The Checkout Chick

    Chapter One

    Hermione hurried down the cobbled path of Diagon Alley as fast as she could withoutrunning. Her long mousy brown hair had been straightened with a simple spell. Shewas wearing a white three quarter sleeved shirt and black trousers. She also wore ared tie loosely around her neck with a name badge pinned on it. This uniform wasstandard dress code for the female staff of Diagon Alley Grocery Store.

    Hermione had applied for a summer job there in the hope of earning some money toput towards further education at the newly opened Hogwarts University for Witchesand Wizards. It was expensive and although her parents had offered to pay for it sheknew it would be difficult to pay it off. Therefore the new opening for a checkout

    operator in the Grocery store had become very handy.

    She briskly walked through the shop and into the staff room located at the back. Shesaw her manager sitting down at the lunch table reading the Daily Prophet. Hermanager was Madame Gilberta. Madadme Gilberta was cranky old woman who hadthe patience of a two year old and the looks of a mountain troll. It did not help thatshe was good friends with Professor Snape.

    Youre late. the old woman with grey locks snapped as she turned her neck to seeHermione enter the room.

    Hermione nodded, wearing an apologetic look upon her face, Yes I know Im sosorry. My mother.. But what her mother did Madame Gilberta did not want to

    know.

    Once more Miss Granger and you shall find yourself without a job. Get to work! shecried, her large dark brown eyes glared her up and down before returning to thenewspaper.

    Hermione sighed and quickly wrote her name and the time she had arrived onto thesigning in sheet pinned on a notice board. She then walked out of the lunch roomand headed for the front of the store to the checkouts.

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    Excuse me, where would I find the chocolate frogs? asked a young boy with redhair. He reminded Hermione of Ron. She grinned at the boy and said kindly, Illshow you.

    She walked ahead to the isle with the confectionary. They had more chocloates and

    lollies than Honeydukes. The variety amazed Hermione everytime she walkedthrough it.

    She looked around for a minute and finally found what she was looking for. Aha!Here they are! There you go. Hermione smiled at the boy, pointing at the largestack of chocolate frogs. The boy grinned at her and thanked her.

    Youre welcome. Hermione smiled. She needed to get to the register beforeMadame Gilberta found her. Without looking where she was going she turned andknocked into someone who had been looking at the Bertie Bott section.

    They both fell to the ground. Everbody in the isle turned to stare at them.Hermiones face went bright red with embarassment. The confusion of her fall sent

    her head spinning. Ouch. she muttered before she picked herself off the groundand turning to help the person she had caused to fall also.

    Watch where youre going! a familiar voice snapped.

    Hermiones heart jumped into her throat. She knew that voice. She knew it. Ohplease, not here, not here! she cried internally. She knew when she had taken thejob that she would run into a few people that she knew from school, but had notexpected to literally run into them.

    There on the ground, getting to his feet was none other than Draco Malfoy. Hisblonde hair hung lossely on his head, but due to his fall a few strands stuck up oddly

    in the back. He wore pitch black robes rimmed green on his sleeves and his neckline.He even had a tiny silver snake which hung from his left earlobe. This snake wasduplicated but in a larger size as a pendant on a silver chain which hung around hisneck. Although the whole Slytherin theme was slightly over done Hermioneadmitted that it did suit him.

    He gazed up at her with large ocean blue eyes with shock then disgust. Hermionesmirked, So sorry. He got up. Hermione took a step back. He stood taller than her.Ron and Harry were taller than her too but somehow when he stood in front of hershe felt as though she was being looked down on.

    He gave her a loathing look before looking down to her name tag, Work here do youmudblood? he hissed.

    Hermione shrugged, Yeah you know, holiday job. she just knew he was going totake insult her. Something about being poor or being a slave. His mouth twitched.Hermione glared at him, You know you want to say it. Well go on do it. Im a poorlittle mudblood who has to work to get money. Go on! I dont care. I just know thatthe money I earn is not dirty.

    Malfoy gave her a dirty look, Dirty? Youre saying my money is dirty? How dare you,you little... But what exactly she was she never found out.

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    Miss Granger! a voice that sounded oddly like Madame Gilbertas resounded behindher. Cringing, Hermione began to speak as she turned, I was just helping acustomer, I didnt... but she stopped mid-sentence as she reaslised who was reallyaddressing her.

    Dan! You scared me! Hermione laughed, jumping on him to give him a hug and aslap on the shoulder. Dan was a handsome young man of seventeen, the same ageas Hermione....and Malfoy for that matter. He had curly brown hair which did notneed to be fixed to look perfect. He also had hazel eyes and the cutest smile inHermiones opinion. He wore a short sleeved white shirt and black pants. He alsowore a red tie except his was pulled up as was required. He too was a servicecashier.

    Dracos heart sunk when he saw how Granger regarded the man she called, Dan. Hedid not know why his heart tugged at him. After all why should he care if she had athing for this guy. Goodluck to her as far as Im concerned. Draco thought, thinkingnothing more.

    Sorry, I couldnt pass up the chance. Although if you dont hurry up Madame I-have-more-than-one-stick-up-my-arse will catch ya. he let her go giving her a winkbefore looking past her to Draco.

    So whos your friend? Dan asked, glancing at Draco as if he was measuring upwhat sort of character he was.

    Hermione turned, the smile slipped off her face. She gave Malfoy a sad almostdisappointing look as their eyes met. She feels sorry for me. Malfoys mind stated tohim. This thought struck him as odd. Sorry? Why on earth would she feel sorry forme? Or maybe shes sorry that she hit me? Or sorry that she had to even see me?He could not figure out which one it was so just gave her a blank expression.

    His name is Draco Malfoy and he is no friend of mine. she said in a matter-of-factway as she turned back to Dan, Come on we have to get back to work. The otherswill be working flat out. Dan nodded. He watched Hermione walk to the front of thestore.

    Dan looked back to Draco, Well nice not meeting you Draco. Dan nodded to Malfoywho nodded back. Doesnt seem like a bad character. No wonder Granger likes him.Malfoy thought sadly. Nice. Dan was nice. Did he want to be nice too? But why wouldhe want to do that? Being mean was so much easier and definately more fun.

    Dan left Malfoy and followed Hermione to the registers. Left alone once again Dracofelt both annoyed and disappointed in himself. He had not called Granger enough

    names. Whered my instant insults go? he thought angrily before leaving the storewith nothing. He had no intention of being served by Granger or Dan for that matter.In fact what he needed most was to leave.

    Making a mental note, not to go back to that grocery store again, he left quickly. Hechanced a look over the registers, as he left, finding Granger instantly. He did notknow why but she stood out from the rest of the girls on the registers. From thatquick glance he learnt so much more of his arch enemies best friend.

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    She had changed. Not mentally. Well actually she probably has another few booksmemorised in that overly smart barin of hers. he corrected himself. But she haddefinately changed physically. She had always been thin. She still was, there wasjust something...he did not know what....but it was there and it was attracting. Herhair had been straightened but he had noticed that change from their previous yearat Hogwarts.

    Ill figure it out. Its not that Im attracted to her, Im just attracted to the fact that Ican use her new change against her. Yeah thats right, that mudblood will pay. Shehit me onto the ground for merlins sake! Draco thought angrily as he stormed downDiagon Alley in search of his father.

    Father...how he hated his father. Lucius Malfoy the biggest bully in the playground.Yes, that was him. Voldemorts right handed man. The man many feared. He wasrich which in turn made Draco rich. But had the mudblood been right? Did they reallyhave dirty money?

    Shes just trying to get to you. Theres no such thing as dirty money. You eitherhave it or you dont. In her case she doesnt and for that she is jealous. Draco

    thought logically. He would not and nor would he ever believe something a dirty littlemudblood said. He felt ashamed already for even contemplating it.

    I have to go back to that store. I have to find out everything she hates. This lastyear of Hogwarts will be hell for her. Draco muttered to himself, a crazy grinspreading on his face. Yes, his plan was perfect. The only problem was he did notknow when her shifts were.

    But hang on...shes desperate for money. Shed be working there every night. Everynight it is then. Starting from tomorrow...Granger will regret she ever took thatstupid job. he thought. He could not help but let out a small laugh aloud. He couldnot wait to put his plan into action. It was just too perfect.

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    Chapter Two

    So far the only person Hermione had encountered who went to Hogwarts was DracoMalfoy. This slightly surpised her as it was only two weeks until they all had to goback to school. She had though the place would have been swarming with Hogwarts

    students.

    The rest of the shift she had on the day she bumped into Malfoy had proveduneventful. She had served until her feet could no longer support her. Standing inthe one position for three hours straight was severly painful. She used Essence ofMurtlap to soothe her feet afterwards.

    Tomorrow itll be different. Youre going out with Ginny tomorrow. No hiding, nomore hiding at home. Hermione thought to herself angrily. She kept mentallyslapping herself for agreeing to Ginnys night club proposition. Hermione and nightclub did not go together. It was like book and Ron or book and Harry. It was just...ano-no.

    The sound of a phone ringing disrupted her. The witches and wizards who had builtthis shop had created a muggle phone system that allowed all the registers to have aphone they could use to call for things over the loud speaker, contact the servicedesk if they needed to and many other things. Hermione felt they were much morehandier than anything the wizarding world could create.

    She picked it up. Hello? Hermione answered as she fiddled with a pen in her hand.There were no customers in sight. It was late and most people were at home.

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    Get back to work slacker. Dan said. Hermione looked to the Service Desk and sawDan holding a phone to his ear. She poked her tongue at him. He looked about tosee if anyone was looking then stuck up his middle finger in response and hung upthe phone.

    Hermione laughed. Dan was such a great person to work with. He could make

    anybody feel better after a hard days work. Hermione guessed this was why he hadbeen employed in the first place. Everybody thought working in a grocery store wasan easy job but it was not. The amount of rude customers Hermione had comeacross amazed her.

    Excuse me? Are you going to serve me or will I just have to serve myself? a personasked. Hermione snapped to attention without looking to see who they were.

    She began scaning the items. How are you? she asked the standard question shehad repeated a million times over. Chips, more chips, chocolate...

    Oh not too bad, unless you count the fact that I am being served by you. TheQueen of all mudbloods. the person commented in a casual way.

    Hermione had never looked up faster in her life. Her neck screamed out in protestwith a crack but she ignored it. He was there yet again. Blonde hair, blue eyes, thehottest guy in their year as much as she hated to admit it. Draco Malfoy.

    She let out a groan loud enough for him to hear. You again is it? Thought you wouldhave caught on yesterday that I didnt want you here. She scanned a few moreitems. Milk, cheese, yogurt...

    Well for your information, I dont take orders from anybody, least of all you. hesneered, leaning casually on the side of the bench where the conveyor belt ran.

    Oh really. Last time I saw, you took many orders from your father. Never heard yousay no. she smirked, proud of her own insults. She had never known that she couldcome up with anything to fight Malfoy back with.

    She looked up to find Malfoy glaring at her, his blue eyes flashing dangerously. Sheno longer looked calm but electric. She did not like it. It made him look much moreevil. Evil little ferret. she thought to herself.

    Listen here mudblood, I dont care how much you think youre better than me. Thesimple fact is that I AM better than you. The evidence is right here. I am the onewith money buying things, you are the one slaving about trying to get money.Malfoy stated in a cocky fashion.

    She ignored him. She placed the bags filled with his shopping onto a seperatecounter to her left. She turned to zap her least favourite food. Meat. She wrinkledher nose as she saw it. It was steak....but next to that was a whole chicked wrappedin plastic. It made her want to be sick. She hated animal slaughtering. It was adisgusting habit humans had and felt so angered by it. What gave anybody the rightto kill innocent animals? It was just like making house elves slaves. It was wrong.

    She tried as best as she could to pick it up without touching the part where the meatwas. Although she knew it was wrapped she could not bare it. She used her fingers

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    tips and slowly lifted up the steak and placed it into the bag. Next was the chicken.The chicken without the head. She could not put the chicken in with her fingertips.

    Malfoy watched her with amusement. She was making a big fool out of herself.Scared of meat. Who would have thought the mudblood was scared of meat? hethought with a laugh. He was smirking broadly. Her discomfort was childish.

    When she still hesitated to pick it up and laughed, Its pretty simple you know. Youjust put your hands on it. He grabbed her outstretched hands and placed it right onthe chicken. Hermiones mouth dropped open in horror. Her insides were squirming.She was touching it! She was touching a headless chicken! Pick it up... heinstructed her, forcing her to clasp her hand onto the chicken and lift it. It was allMalfoys fault. He made her do this. But something stopped her from crying out. Hissoft palms were over her hands. They were so smooth. Scan it and put it in thebag. he finished, having to lean over slightly so his hands could reach into the bagalso. He let go and she let go. The chicken dropped into the bag.

    Hermione glanced at her hands. She felt dirty. She felt so dirty! A chicken, a poorinnocent chicken and she had just picked it up and sold it. The plastic wrap had

    protected her from actually touching the meat but still she felt as though she had.

    She had never sold a chicken before. This happened to be her first one after a weekof working and she felt cheated that it had to have been Malfoy that she had sold itto.

    She looked up, Malfoy was smiling and shaking his head in disbelief at the sametime. She was in the frame of mind of giving him a good lecture. One he would neverforget. But the phone disrupted her again.

    Hermione picked it up, her eyes firmly on Malfoy, her lips pursed angrily. He justcontinued to smirk at her. Yes? she snapped forcefully.

    The person at the other end whistled, Someones in a bad mood.

    Hermione smiled slighly, Hi Dan. What do you want? Im busy right now, servingsomeone.

    Dan sniggered, Well yeah I can see that. You can close up after you serve thatcustomer. Im going out for a pizza, wanna come?

    Hermione answered, No, thanks. I have to go home. See you soon. She placed thephone back on the reciever.

    She looked back at Malfoy who seemed to have lost some of happiness. Man of the

    moment? he asked, his tone was bitter.

    Hermione raised an eyebrow, You think Dan and I are going out? Hermione gave ahollow laugh, Were just friends. Although Im sure that word you do notunderstand.

    Malfoy glared at her, Hurry up and get these things in bags. You have got to be theslowest checkout chick on the planet! I dont know how you got hired.

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    Hermione returned his glare and continued to scan his items. This time she went alittle faster. She wanted him out of her sight. His prescence both excited andannoyed her. She did not understand why, but him being there made her heart dobackflips. She found their bickering funny and although it hurt to hear the meanthings he said to her, it was always fun to give Malfoy back some of his ownmedicine.

    That comes to twenty five galleons and seven knuts. she said coldly.

    He smiked at her, getting out his black wallet engraved with a silver snake. Heopened it slowly. He had many cards but he took out one which was silver. It waswhile he did this that she noticed he had a photo. It was of a girl although she wastoo far away to see who it was. He snapped his wallet closed. Hermione sighed withdisppointment. For some strange reason she had wanted so much to know who thepicture Malfoy carried in his wallet was of.

    Any money out? Hermione asked in the same cold tone she had used before.

    No. he answered, placing the card in the holder and pressing a few buttons. A

    receipt printed on a thin piece of parchment. She ripped it off and gave it to him.

    Have an unpleasant night. she said with a smirk.

    He gave her a you-are-so-immature expression before snatching the receipt from herhands and saying back, Right back at ya.

    He collected his bags and walked off, sticking his nose into the air. Hermione couldnot resist her laughter. He was just so conceited and fustrating. She could notunderstand how he could have summed up the nerve to come back into thatparticular Grocery store.

    He knew I worked here. What would make him come back to the place I, his enemy,works. Its so stupid. It doesnt even make sense. Hermione thought, rolling hereyes. She felt silly trying to figure out how Malfoys mind worked.

    One thing was for sure, he had seemed rather pleased when he had walked out ofthe shop. Somethings up and I have to find out. Hermione concluded.

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    Chapter Three

    Hermione woke up in her bed at her parents house. The sun shone through thewindow. Her first thought was, No work today! This immediately put her in a goodmood. No work meant no Malfoy. Although she did miss out on seeing Dan but shewould see him again soon. They usually had the same shift times anyway.

    Sweet heart! Ginnys here to see you! her mother called. Hermione raceddownstairs, ignoring the fact that she was still in her pyjamas. After all Ginny hadseen her in her pjs before.

    Ginny! Hermione cried with glee, giving her friend a big hug. Ginny smiled, Just

    work up did you?

    Hermione shrugged, Well it is holdays. Ginny nodded. Yes that was a pretty goodexcuse.

    So hows work? I still cant believe you got a job! Can you imagine Harry or Rongetting one? Ginny laughed, as did Hermione, Its not even imaginable.

    Hermione nodded, Yeah but I can picture them as aurors. Ginny sighed, Yes, or

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    they could become international quidditch stars. Now that would be cool.

    Hermione smiled at that thought. For Harry it would be a dream come true. But asmuch as she hated to think it, she did not feel Ron would make a very goodquidditch star. He was good, but he was not that good.

    So why are you here so early? I thought you said we were going to a night club.Hermione asked, a little confused. Perhaps she had heard Ginny wrong.

    Ginny nodded, We are going to a night club. Hermione raised an eyebrow andfrowned, Ginny, you go to night clubs at night. Thats the whole point of thename... night club. Get it?

    It was Ginnys turn to give her friend a funny look, Im not stupid you know Mione.she rolled her eyes, Were going to Diagon Alley to get our school things. Might aswell get it over and done with right? Besides it gives me an excuse to get somethingfor tonight. Mum still thinks Im just sleeping over your house. Honestly Dad insistedthat he come with me just to spend a night at a muggles house but Mum managedto talk him out of it thank merlin.

    Hermione laughed. She could definately picture Mr.Weasley doing that. Well lets gothen. Erm...but how are we going?

    Ginny took a small sealed container out of her pocket, Floo Powder. Havea fireplace?

    Hermione nodded with a smile, Come on. Well hang on Ill juts get changed thenwell go. It took only a few minutes to change into her clothes and they were inDiagon Alley before they knew it.

    Hermione sighed as she looked at the crowded cobbled street. I have spent way too

    much time here this holidays.

    Ginny laughed, Youre too right. Well come on then, lets get this school stuff out ofthe way so we can have fun shopping!

    Hermione nodded. They went to the usual shops to get their school stuff. Hermionerefused to get any new robes for school even though her current ones were short. Itwas her last year and she did not want to waste any money.

    You know Im thinking we should have gone school shopping after we went clothesshopping. Ginny commented as they carted full bags of book and other itemsaround.

    Hermione sighed, Here, lets just get them out of here. Ill send them back to myhouse. Disperta school bags to the Grangers house! The bags disappeared andGinny grinned broadly, Youre just too smart.

    Hermione laughed and together they went to a shop named, Mystique. Hermionehad never been there but Ginny swore that it was a really good store.

    Upon entering Hermione was taken aback. The walls were painted black with silverstars stuck onto them. She looked up to the roof finding a night sky filled with

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    planets, stars and the moon. She guessed it had same enchantment as the roof ofthe Great Hall at Hogwarts. The clothes were on racks and all seemed to glitter.

    Oh Hermione look at this! Its beautiful! Ginny squeeled, holding up a pretty darkblue halter top with glitter round the bottom half. Hermione nodded, taking it intoher hands to examine it closer. The material felt so light she barely realised it was

    there.

    It would look fantastic on you Mione. Why dont you get it? You could wear ittonight. Ill get this. Ginny said, holding up another piece of clothing in her hand. Itwas a mini red dress thing that fell to her knees in waves. It was one of those outfitsthat you wore jeans under. Hermione knew it would suit Ginny.

    Okay. Hermione answered and together they went to pay for their things. Thewitch serving them gave them a warm smile. The tops turned out to be a realbargain. Hermiones was only five galleons and Ginnys was six.

    Father, this is a girls store. a menancing voice spoke through the calm tranquilmusic that filled the room. Hermione spun around to find Lucius and Draco Malfoy

    standing in the doorway. Draco was looking up at the roof. He had not noticed herprescence.

    Nonsense Draco. Look over there. Suits, girls do not wear suits. Besides, this storeis one of the only ones in this wretched street that has label clothing. You want tolook your finest dont you? Lucius asked with a smirk.

    His father moved towards the suits before noticing the other people in the store,which was only Ginny, Hermione and the sales woman. He stopped in his tracks. Heremembered the girl holding the blue halter top from somewhere.

    Draco who had been sneering at his father, noticed that his attention had been taken

    by something. He followed his fathers line of sight and spotted Hermione.

    His heart jumped into his throat as it did each time he saw her since the moment shehad bumped into him in that Grocery Store. The light was dim in the room whichmade Hermiones hair shine more than it had ever done. Her eyes sparkled as muchas her top did.

    Mudblood? Lucius muttered under his breath finally remembering where he hadseen her before. I know you. You are the muggle friend of dear Potter. What wouldthe magical world do without him? Lucius sneered, obviously enjoying himself.

    Hermione gave Lucius a deathly glare, A question I ask myself every day. sheanswered in the same tone he had used with her. Draco remained the silent admirer.

    He did not know what to say. Yet again any insults he could have used against herhad been wiped from his mind.

    You have a sharp tongue mudblood. I suggest you tame it before someone cuts itout. Lucius spat forcefully, his hand clutched tightly at his wand. Hermione also heldher wand. If he tried anything shed curse him.

    Draco watched his fathers malicious face. He noted how ugly Lucius Malfoy lookedwhen he was angry. He looked back to Hermione. She was quite the opposite. Her

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    anger created a cute blush in her cheeks which made her look ever more tempting.Suddenly he felt the need to talk to her. Even if he said something stupid and out ofcharacter. He could not understand his sudden change in feelings.

    Could we leave father? Draco asked, I cant shop in a place mudbloods shop. Itjust is not right. Draco commented to his father. Lucius would surely agree to this.

    He did not really mean what he asked. He just felt the need to get away fromGranger before he did anything he would regret. They had been enemies for so longthat even if his heart wanted to change their relationship it would not be possible.

    Lucius smirked, Quite right Draco. The very air in this room is contaminated byher. Hermione looked to Draco who could not help but give her an apologeticglance. He felt awful, so terribly awful. The sad look on her face wanted him to takeevrything he had said against her in the past six years back.

    What on earth are you thinking? Draco thought, infuriated with himself, Apologise?To a mudblood? This is getting out of hand. I have to keep away from her. Whta onearth happened to my plan? I think its working against me! Damn it!

    Lucius turned sharply and walked out, Draco locked eyes with Hermione one lasttime before walking out also. As he left the shop, his heart began to beat normallyonce again. It was just the scent in that shop. Made your mind go funny. hethought, Yeah that was it. The fumes.

    Hermione let out a breath she had been holding. Draco Malfoy in dim light wasalmost like seeing an angel. She had ben angry at Lucius but this anger did notsurpass the crazy passion she had felt toward Draco. It had been like a passing cold.It was there one minute and gone the next. But no matter how much Hermionewanted to deny it, she could not. It had been there and that was a fact.

    If only I knew why. Hermione thought sadly. She did not want to have a crush on

    someone as snobby and conceited as Draco Malfoy. She wanted to have a crush onsomeone like Dan. Yes, Dan was a cute, kind guy.

    Ginny let out a small laugh. Hermione gave a her a confused look.. What are youlaughing at? she asked.

    Ginny shrugged, You should have seen the sparks flying from your eyes and DracoMalfoys! I was scared you were going to zap the place down. Honestly...

    Hermione gave her friend a disgusted look, Sparks? Ginny are you sure youre notsick? she placed a hand on Ginnys forehead, pretending to measure hertemperature.

    Ginnys slapped Hermiones hand away from her, laughing hard, I cant believe it!You and Malfoy! Wait until Ron and Harry hear abou this!

    Hermiones jaw dropped, No Gin, dont tell them anything. Theyd kill me. Ginnyseyes went wide with shock, So there IS something going on between you?

    Hermione felt like kicking herself. She had walked right into that one, No Im not.Just dont say anything like that to them cause you know what theyd do.

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    Ginny nodded but she could not help the feeling that she was being lied to. She knewwhat she saw and it was definately not nothing. It was there. It had been there.Sparks, sparks and more sparks. They paid for their things and left.

    **Later That Night**

    Hermione had been dancing for two hours straight. She loved dancing but her feetwere getting very sore. I have to sit down! she yelled at the boy who she had beendancing with.

    He nodded and went off to dance with Ginny whom many of the boys had taken to.She was simply a drop dead gorgeous red head and Hermione was slightly jealous ofher friends good looks. If only she was as pretty as Ginny...

    Is this seat taken? a boy with ash brown hair asked, taking the seat beside herwithout waiting for an answer.

    Hermione looked to him and gasped. Dan! I never in a million years thought Id seeyou here! Ha! She gave him a hug which he returned happily.

    He winked at her as he had done so many times before. Hermione felt her insidesmelt, his smile was so cute! She was disappointed by the fact that Draco Malfoycould make her heart do backflips and yet all Dans smile could do was give her armsgoosebumps.

    Wanna dance? he asked her with his cute smile plastered on his face. Hermioneshook her head, My feet are hurting. Dancing too much tonight. How about we justsit here for a bit? Dan shrugged, Fine with me.

    They sat there, silencently for a minute before Dan started up conversation, Haveyou ever been out with anyone? She was surprised by the question. Dan was hardly

    ever straight forward.

    Um...well sort of once but it wasnt really well...it wasnt like a real date oranything. Hermione said, talking about Viktor Krum.

    Dan nodded, Okay. he seemed pleased about something. Hermione raised aneyebrow, Why do you ask?

    He shrugged, Just asking... Hermione nodded, but he had more, Would like to goout with me sometime?

    Hermione could hardly believe her ears. Dan was asking her out! Cute Dan, wasasking HER, Hermione Granger, out on a date. It was too good to be true. Oh Id

    love to.

    Dan grinned happily, Great! So do you feel like dancing now? Hermione laughedand nodded, her energy store had shot up when he had asked her out. She felt asthough she could dance for the whole night.

    They danced to some of the Werid Sister songs, one of them was slow one.Hermione enjoyed this the most as it gave her a chance to be closer to Dan.

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    I am so lucky! Hermione thought to herself, But why dont I feel that way? sheasked herself. Yes she was happy. She was extremely happy but she was not headover heels. In fact she didnt feel anything that people were supposed to feel whenthey loved someone.

    At that moment something Ginny had said earlier came to mind, You should have

    seen the sparks flying from your eyes and Draco Malfoys! Her voice faded.Hermione was scared. Sparks. Sparks was a symptom of love. Was she in love withDraco Malfoy? Her head was disgusted in herself but her heart was agreeing.

    But being a girl who always listened to her mind instead of her heart, she ignoredhearts desire. She forgot all thoughts of Draco Malfoy and instead concentrated onDans arms wrapped around her waist as they slow danced to a Wierd Sister songcalled, Denial.

    Chapter Four

    Hi, how are you? Hermione asked politely as she began to serve an elderly womanwho was buying a lot of fruit and vegetables. Apart from meat, Hermione hatedscanning the fruit and vegetables. Although it was not because she did not like them,it was because it took forver to type in the code and weigh them. Such a slowprocess that usually got both the customer and the Checkout operator fustrated.

    Hermione heard the old woman mutter something as she piled the bags of fruit andvegetables into her trolley. Hermiones face went slightly pink. She knew the elderlywoman was muttering something about her.

    Hermione disliked people so impatient. It was not like it was her fault that she tookso long with the codes. She could not possibly know all of them off by heart and shehad to figure it out doing a handy magical spell she had come up with.

    Thats ten galleons and five sickles. the elderly woman paid with cash. Hermioneplaced them in the till and the woman took off, muttering more things under herbreath. Hermione gave her a dirty look although she knew she could not see her.

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    She glanced at the Service Desk. She spotted Dan serving somebody. He looked likehe was concentrating hard. She smiled at him. He turned, feeling her eyes on him.He gave her a wink and a smile before returning his attention to the customer.

    Hermione grinned broadly. She checked her watch. Only half an hour left for that

    shift and then she would be going on her first date with Dan. They were going out todinner at a fancy restraunt open in Diagon Alley.

    She heard the conveyor belt move and looked to see a pile of meat getting stackedonto it. She groaned quietly. She looked up to the custom and threw her head backwhen she saw who it was.

    Not you again! Dont you ever give up with whatever youre trying to do? Hermioneasked angrily as Draco Malfoy grinned at her.

    Malfoys dont give up. Besides, this is so much fun. he continued to pile the meaton the belt. He had filled it already.

    Well arent you going to start scanning? I have to put more on. He gave her histrademark smirk. She leaned over slightly to look at his trolley. It was full of meat.She felt like being sick. So many dead animals! So much meat and blood.

    She glanced at the meat first up. It was the steaks. Good, I can do these ones. Aslong as theres no...

    Chicken your favourite. Malfoy held up some chickens before placing them onto thesteaks she had been about to scan.

    Hermione let out a fustrated cry. She did not have to put up with Malfoys taunting.He knew she hated meat and had purposefully filled a trolley with it to annoy her.

    This amazed her. He had gone to great lengths to make her job a living hell. Meatwas not cheap either. But then again, he was rich and could afford to throwmoney around.

    Are you actually going to eat this meat Malfoy? Hermione asked with a glare,Youll get fat you know.

    Draco gave a short laugh, No Im going to just throw it away. I dont eat meat verymuch. he shrugged, Well come on.

    Hermiones mouth was open in disgust. He was going to throw so much money awayjust so he could annoy her. You should use your money on useful things. Like givingto a charity.

    Draco raised an eyebrow, Now where would the fun be in that? Besides using it forthis is useful. I get to piss you off and watch you face your worst fear. He laughed.His laugh caught Hermiones heart. It was a real laugh, not one of his sniggers. Hewas really laughing and really enjoying himself.

    Hermione had to smile. This whole thing really was funny. Malfoy buying a trolley fullof meat to annoy her. Draco watched her smile. He had made her smile! His heartjumped into his throat. Not again. he thought. He found himself soaking in all her

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    attractive qualities.

    She reached out for the chicken and without his help she picked it up and scanned itand placed it in the bag. Proud of ehrself she went for the next one. Draco watchedher without saying a thing. He was proud of her. He really was. She was facing herfear. He respected her. If only he could be more like her and face his worst fear...his

    father.

    Just as she had finally started to overcome her fear, some of the blood from the liverin a bag squirted onto her shirt. She gasped, dropping the bag onto the ground. Shehad animal blood on her! She felt sick. She looked up at Draco who was staring ather, waiting for her reaction. Her sight went hazy and she began to see double.

    Without thinking, his ran round to her side of the counter and caught her just as shecollapsed. She felt so small in his arms. He looked around, what could he do now?Luckily, Dan had seen the whole episode and had come rushing to his girlfriendsside.

    She fainted, I did nothing. Draco said quickly and Dan nodded, Yeah I know. Here

    give her to me. Ill put her in the back. Shell wake up soon.

    Draco nodded hesitantly. He did not want to give Hermione to him. He felt unsureabout Dan. He had seemed like a nice when he had met him but now...he didntknow. There was just something there. Something strangely like distrust.

    He placed her in the arms of Dan who picked her up and kissed her on the cheek.Dracos heart sunk in his chest. So Hermione was with this Dan guy. He feltsomething evil crawl up inside him. It was dangerous, a very dangerous feeling.Jealousy...that was what it was. Jealousy.

    Ill serve you in a minute. Just wait here. Dan said, walking off with Hermione in

    his arms. Draco nodded, looking at all the meat on the belt sadly. He felt ashamed athimself. It was his fault that Hermione had collapsed. He should not have boughtthat liver. It was going too far.

    A few chickens would have done. Why did I have to get so much? Idiot! he toldhimself off, leaning against the checkout.

    Dan was back in one munite flat. How is she? Draco inquired. Dan gave him asmall smile, Shell be right.

    He continued where Hermione left off. He was much faster at scanning things thanHermione was. She wasnt built for labour work. Draco thought. He knew what hethought was right. She was so smart at school. Better than him in everything since

    first year. Even Potions.

    So are you two going out? Draco asked, doing his very best to control his temperand his tone so that he would not sound jealous although he could not remember atime when he felt more out of control.

    Dan grinned, Yeah started going out yesterday. We were going to go out on our firstdate tonight. Guess thatll have to wait.

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    Draco nodded. He hated this Dan guy. He had not done anything to him. But hehated him. He hated him more than he hated Potter. What made Dan so special?Why did Hermione like him so much? He was nice, so what? What was so good aboutnice guys? Nothing!

    Good thing though. Dan commented, with a smirk so alike his own that it caught

    him in surprise.

    Good? How so? Draco asked, confused to what he meant. As far as he wasconcerned, a girl passing out before a first date was not something good.

    I had a date with Victoria, my girl friend of three years. Hot thing she it too. Longblonde hair, sexiest legs Ive ever seen and eyes as green as a cats. Sound hot?Dan grinned, Dracos mouth dropped open and Dan thought it was because of hisdescription of Victoria.

    There it was! The thing that had made Draco feel uncomfortable about Dans nicecharacter. He knew it! He knew there was no such thing as the nice guy. He wascheating on Hermione and she had no idea. He was torn between elation and hatred.

    Elation because he could tell her that her boyfriend was a cheat and that she wouldthink better of him because he had told her. Hatred because of the obvious, she hadfallen for a cheat. Someone who would have broken her heart without any care forher feelings.

    Dont tell Hermione though, yeah? Shes a sweet thing and well...I couldnt help butask her out. She told me she had only gone out with a guy once. I felt sorry for herand she was looking so hot. We were at a nightclub. Dan explained as though thathis excuse made perfect sense.

    Draco nodded, I wont tell. he said aloud. Not... he thought with a smile.

    Dan grinned, Thanks mate. Heres your meat. You can have it for free.

    Draco shrugged. It made no difference to him. The meat was going straight into thebin anyway. He wheeled the trolley outside and began to pile the meat into a bin.

    How on earth am I going to tell her? Draco thought. He knew she would not believehim at first, but maybe after awhile she would. Id have to get her alone...Time tostart planning.

    He threw the last bag of meat into the bin and left the trolley next to it as he walkeddown the cobbled path and disappeared to the Malfoy Manor as he did so.

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    Chapter Five

    Hermione lay on the only couch in the staff room. She still felt sick from all the meat.Beside that she felt very dirty. The couch she was laying on was filled with dust andHermione cringed when she thought of all the dirty people that had sat on it beforeher.

    The last thing she remembered was Malfoys worried face before all went black. Hisexpression remained etched in her mind, blinding her of her surroundings. He hadlooked so concerned. It was an expression she had never seen and never dreamt of

    seeing on Draco Malfoys face. He looked much more handsome without his usualsmugness.

    He really is model material. she thought. His face and his Quidditch built bodyscreamed for the attention of Witch Weekly and Hermione was stunned that they hadnot got a hold of him. After all he was an eligible bachelor with a great fortune toback him up.

    Are you feeling better? Dan asked, entering the room with a bottle of water in his

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    hand. He gave it to her and she smiled.

    Thank you. Yes I am a bit. Im sorry I fainted and ruined our night. Well gotomorrow though okay? I promise. Hermione told him, feeling awful about wreckingtheir first date. Who brought me up here? Was it you?

    Dan nodded, Yes. But lucky your friend there caught you, otherwise you might havehit your head on the register or something. Hes a nice guy. I dont get why youdont like him. Dan commented a cute look of confusion on his face.

    Hermione looked slightly shocked although inside she was appalled. Draco Malfoycatch her? After the great efforts he had gone to just to annoy her, he had caughther. She would have thought that letting her fall to the ground would have been amuch better end to his terrible scheme. She knew he was out to annoy her. That washis plan. Attack her in any way possible, find out her weakness, which he had andthen move onto the kill. Luckily her weakness had led to her fainting. She could notimagine what Malfoy####### in for the kill would be.

    Weve been enemies since our first year at Hogwarts. He is acting very different

    from the way he usually acts at school. Hermione told Dan who frowned even more.Then why is he different? Dan quizzed.

    Hermione could not help but blush. She did not know the reason but Ginnys wordsto her from when they had encountered Draco and his father in the clothes shop keptreplaying itself in her mind. You should have seen the sparks flying from your eyesand Draco Malfoys... What if he did like her? What would she do? Dont be a bloodyidiot Hermione. Get a hold of yourself! Draco Malfoy, like you! Yeah, when Im thelast person on earth...if that. she thought angrily to herself. Why had she beenthinking stupid things lately? It was not like her.

    Listen I think you should go home. Sleep it off and all that. Are you sure you dont

    want me to cancel your shift tomorrow? I could get someone to fill in for ya. Danasked in a sympathetic tone. He was trying to get rid of her so he could go fetchVictoria.

    Hermione shook her head, Ill go home but I dont want to cancel my shift. I cantafford to. I know Im overworking myself. But I really do need that money. If I dontget into that University I could not live with myself.

    Dan gave a small laugh and rolled his eyes, You and books, honestly Hermione yourobsession is almost unnatural. Hermione shrugged. This was how she was and shedid not want it any different.

    Hermione got up with the help of Dan but once she was on her feet, she felt perfectly

    fine. I can do it myself its okay. Ill see you tomorrow then. Dan nodded and shewas off.

    When she got home the first thing she did was put her shirt in the wash. The stain ofanimal blood made her want to hurl but she controlled herself. This fear of mine isgetting slightly out of hand. Hermione thought as she changed into her pajamas andlay down on her soft, comfy bed.

    Draco had been right when he had said that she needed to get over her fear. But

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    why on earth does he want to help me? Why did he catch me? And for Merlins sakewhy does he have to be so damn good-looking? she gave a frustrated sigh. Trying tounderstand Draco Malfoy was like to trying to understand the way the world worked.It was complicated, intriguing and frustrating all molded into one.

    The next morning flew by quickly. She was apprehensive. Her shift was a short one.

    Only two hours. Dans was three. She would have to wait an hour for him before shecould go on their first date. She did not mind. It would give her a chance to go to anice little book store in Diagon Alley that she had been meaning to check out but hadnot had the chance to.

    Gawd almighty Ermione you look like you need a break. another checkout operatorpiped up with an accent Hermione did not know as she walked through the staffroom and signed in. Hermione gave the blonde haired girl a weak smile. Hermionehad not talked to the other staff members too much. She just never got the time andbeing a social butterfly just was not her thing. She knew only by the nametag thatthis blonde girls name was Kiamara. Sweet name for a sweet looking girlHermione thought.

    She did not know why but she subconsciously had a thing against blondes. Thisincluded Draco Malfoy and Luna Lovegood. This thing was nothing personal toanyone. Perhaps she felt jealous that guys tended to go for blondes rather thanbrunettes such as herself.

    Heading to the checkout she glanced around, hoping Draco Malfoy would not showhis ferret face. She was in debt of him. He had caught her before she had fallen tothe ground. No other person would make a big deal out of this but she just knew hewould. He would hold it against her until she repaid that debt although she doubtedshe ever would.

    She did spot him. He looked rather glum and was trudging along the isle which held

    the butter beer. She pretended to scratch her face as she hid desperately from hisview. But he saw her. He had spotted her so quickly it was like someone hadannounced her arrival on the loudspeaker. He followed her with his eyes as shemade her way to register nine. Everything inside him wanted to rush up to her andtell her everything Dan had said the night before. But no...he could never do that.She would never believe him. Nor should she. If I were in her place I certainly wouldnot believe her. his mind explained to his heart which was begging for a reason toescape the rational way of dealing with the situation.

    Deciding to tease her some more, just to boost his happiness and ego, he walkedcloser to her register. She watched him carefully. Hes going to come here again. Iknow it. she thought, her eyes locked on his. He displayed a devilish grin, slowlywalking as though time did not matter to him. Closer he came, closer and closer until

    he was right next to her register and her heart was again in her throat. But hecontinued, grinning more broadly as he saw the slight disappointment flash onto herface before anger consumed it.

    He was going to be served by... Kiamara. Hm...nice name, nice hair, nice body.Where on earth have I seen her before. Her eyes, green-blue...Ive seen thembefore. I know it! Draco thought, searching his mind desperately to put a place tothe name.

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    Ello Sir, how are you today? her sweet voice asked with a cute accent. Dracosmiled as he loaded the conveyor belt with boxes of butter beer and otherrefreshments. Not bad Kiamara. he spoke loud enough so that Hermione wouldhear.

    Kiamara grinned. Not too many people actually used their names when they replied.

    Thats very good. Ave a nice night so far?

    Draco nodded, Yes brilliant. Better than last night, thats for sure. he could not helpbut sneak a look in Hermiones direction. Just as he hoped, she was glaring at him,daggers clearly in her eyes. Her knuckles were white as she tightly clutched onto thebench. He smiled at his own ingenuity. He had finally got his ego back and wassuccessfully annoying his worst enemies best friend. Things were back to normal.

    Hey Draco! Nice to see you! Have you seen Hermione? Im sure shed love to thankyou for what you did last night. There she is! Hey Hermione, look whos here! Dancried, as he spotted Draco and then Hermione not far behind.

    He had requested Hermiones attention and she could not crawl her way out of it.

    Draco who had been beaming as it was, could not hold in his delight much longer.Hermione was going to be forced to thank him. She would be furious. His plan hadworked better than he had intended it to.

    Oh hi. she said with a frown, she was slightly pink and by the way she pursed herlips, Draco knew she was in a bad mood.

    Dan gave her a whats-up-with-you look and turned to Draco. Well Ill thank youanyway. Youre a good guy to have around. Dunno why she hates you. he shookhands with Draco who continued to look at Hermione. She was absolutely fuming.

    I hate him. I hate him. I hate him. I hate him. Hermione###### thought over

    and over, He thinks hes so bloody good the pompous git. Oh how Id love to justcurse him and... her mind continued to come up with different ways she could inflictpain on Malfoy.

    Well I got to get back to work. If theres anything you need just call me. Dan madehis leave and Draco turned back to Kiamara who had nearly finished scanning hisproducts. Excuse me for a minute. he said quietly before turning around andmaking a few steps in Hermiones direction. It did take long to get face to face withher.

    Youre loving this arent you Malfoy? You think youve won this little game youstarted. Well it isnt over. Ill never concede defeat, never. Hermione vowed,heatedly.

    He shrugged, I didnt think so. But youre right, I am loving it. Every bit of it. hesmirked confidently. She folded her arms and glared at him. If steam could come outof her ears Draco was sure it would have. He had never seen her that angry beforenot even in third year when she had slapped him.

    But suddenly he realised why he was there in that store in the first place. Dan...theguy he had just shaken hands with. The bastard who was dating both Victoria,Hermione and Merlin only knew who else. He could not tell her now. Not while she

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    was angry at him. It had to be a time when she was happy. A time when their stronghatred toward each other had cooled slightly. Not now. But when? What if she findsout before you get to tell her? Then youll have nothing to win her over. But why doyou want to win her over? Damn it, a fine mess I have got my mind into. If fatherever found out that I had these thoughts it would be the devil to pay.

    Listen I need to talk to you after your shift. he stated quietly to Hermione who wasclearly shocked by his sudden change of attitude. Its why I came here today. Ineed to talk to you and I know youre probably suspicious but it cant wait.

    Hermione shook her head, Even if I wanted to talk to you, I cant. Im going on adate with Dan. she smiled slightly, happy she was one up on him, Looks like youcame here for nothing then eh?

    Bloody annoying...I dunno what. He seethed internally. Listen this concerns you. Idont have to tell you, you know. But I am doing this cause well...I know not even aworst enemy can keep this quiet. If you dont want to hear it then fine but youllhave to find out the hard way. he sighed, Such a shame.

    Her eyes narrowed at his words, Find out what exactly?

    He smirked, happy he had finally got his way as he always did, Ill tell you afteryour shift. Until then, keep your fly up. he gestured to her pants. She looked downto find her zip undone. She gasped and turned around to zip it away, extremelyembarrassed. He could hear his laughter.

    This thing you have to tell me better be good Malfoy. I dont take time wastinglightly. Hermione warned as she turned around. He picked up his bags and winkedat her before leaving the store.

    One day he is going to pay for all of his smug, spoilt brat attitude and I just cant

    wait to see that day come. Hermione muttered before getting back to work. Shehad realised she had not switched on the light to her register. That was why nobodyhad been coming.

    One things for sure. Tonights sure going to be memorable. she thought one lasttime before forcing herself to forget Draco Malfoy.

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    Chapter Six

    What is it that you are desperate to tell me Malfoy cause as you know, spendingtime in your company is not exactly something I look forward to. Hermione snappedin an agitated fashion. She had finished her shift and had purposefully taken awhileto get out of the store.

    He rolled his eyes, Youre telling me! Im not desperate to tell you anything. Hefolded his arms and they stopped walking down the cobbled lane, which was filledwith a fair amount of people still. She did the same, glaring at him.

    Youre the one who told ME to come out here! Stop trying to make out that thiswhole thing is my fault. I didnt ask you to come into the place I work. I did not askyou to talk to me. Hermione seethed, trying her best to keep her anger undercontrol.

    Listen Granger, I had something important to tell you. It concerns you and not me.It is entirely your fault because if you had not started this whole thing I would nothave to be standing here wasting my time with you! Malfoy bickered, letting his

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    arms fall to his side so he could clench his fists.

    Oh yeah well Ill just leave then shall I? Its like you said I can find out the hard wayand sometimes the hard way is better than the easy way. See you later Malfoy.Hermione turned on her heel and began to storm off in the opposite direction. Shehad no idea where she was going; she just knew she had to get away from Draco

    Malfoy before she cursed him to hell.

    Wait! Damn it! Wait you stubborn know-it-all! he went after her, grabbing her armand pulling her around to face him.

    Let go of me you pathetic excuse for a wizard! Hermione struggled to get out of hisgrasp but he was by far the stronger of the two.

    No. I will tell you what i have to. I just want you to promise me one thing when youhear it. His bright blue eyes stared carefully into her own brown ones. She hadnever seen him look so concerned. What he has to say must be pretty important...she mused.

    I want you to promise that you will consider what I say. Dont blow it off asnonsense. You have to understand that Im telling the truth. he told her carefully,looking around to see if anyone was listening to them.

    Since when do you tell the truth? Hermione asked. She did not believe himalready, how on earth could she believe anything else he had to say.

    I always tell the truth Granger. Youre just too full of your own self-loving remarksin that overly big head of yours that you cant see what other people around you door say. He smirked, not able to control himself from having a dig at her.

    Self-loving? Self-loving! Look whos talking! The guy with the biggest head on the

    planet. Mr. No-one-looks-down-on-me! Mr. I-am-too-rich-I-can-waste-money-on-anything-I-want! Self-loving! Ha! Hermione let out a hallow laugh.

    Draco clenched his jaw, pulling her arm and taking them to a nearby alleyway. Oncethey were out of sight he shoved her to the brick wall forcefully.

    Listen to me and listen good. Your stupid, pathetic excuse of a boyfriend is cheatingon you. How do I know? He told me so last night after you passed out. he told herbluntly. Her eyes widened with disbelief.

    Dan? Now youre really pissing me off Malfoy. Dan is the nicest, sweetest guy I haveever met. He does not cheat on anyone. He cant even hurt a fly, which is somethingI cant say about you. Do you honestly think Id believe you? What are you? Insane?

    Hermione yelled impatiently.

    So thats what he wanted to say. That was it. Some stupid pathetic lie. Hermionethought as she fumed. He glared at her, eyes flashing dangerously.

    Dont judge a book by its cover Granger. Ever heard of that? Im sure you wouldhave considering youre married to them. Draco asked in a cool tone.

    She shook her head at him, You have got to be the stupidest person in our year

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    Malfoy. Its a miracle that you managed to pass. Next time you expect me to believeyour falsehoods, check your sources first.

    My source is the best source I can get! He bloody admitted to it, why cant you getthat through your thick head? He said he was cheating on you. Someone namedVictoria if memory serves correct. Are you so nave that you are blind to the way

    some people####### work? Did you not ever hear that story when you werelittle?

    What story Malfoy?: Hermione snapped, her face was bright red and her eyes wereboggling out their sockets. Her patience was about to snap.

    About bad people trying to lure children into their cars by offering them lollies? To achild theyre friendly people and theyre desperate for those lollies so they just gowith them. Youre the same. Youre like a child. You cant see anything but the lollies,which in this case is Dans love. But you cant see what Dan is hiding. You cantunderstand that hes a bad person. Malfoy explained to her. Hermione listened tohim. What he said sounded right but she refused to believe it.

    I dont care if you think Im a child Malfoy. Your opinion does nothing for me. What Iwant to know if why you needed to tell me this so desperately? Whats it to you ifIm dating someone whos cheating on me? It was the big question and Dracoimmediately blurted out his answer.

    Because I love he froze and so did she. Draco mouth was left slightly open; hereyes were wide with shock. Both of their hearts were hammering fast. Draco was soshocked, You bloody idiot! Why the hell did you go saying that? You nearly wreckedeverything!

    I mean because I love seeing you pissed off. He stammered after a few secondssilence. Hermione was breathing hard. He was lying they both knew it. He was more

    annoyed at himself than anything else. But she was scared. She had never felt soscared in her life. Draco Malfoylove her? Well that was what she was sure he wasabout to say.

    You like seeing me pissed off? Well the feeling is mutual. Glad we have that sortedout. she rolled her eyes, in a desperate attempt to seem calm and collected, Now ifyou dont mind, Im going to be late for a date with Dan. Hermione said coolly,brushing past him and walking out of the alleyway. Draco continued to stare afterher, even when she was out of his eyesight.

    He loved her and he had just about admitted it to the girl herself! Things weregetting really twisted and he did not like it one bit. But something he disliked evenmore was the fact that she had refused to see reason. He knew he could not blame

    her but he hated it just the same. She loved Dan and that was that.

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    Chapter Seven

    Draco sat in his bedroom, gazing out into his window at the dark night sky. Themoonlight streamed through it, creating a soft blue light in his normally dark room.The Malfoy manor was silent.

    His father was at a meeting with his fellow death-eaters. Voldemorts downfall hadthem at loss at what to do. Should they elect a new leader or allow their group todisband. Draco was very sure that even if he was the only one left, Lucius Malfoywould never back down. He would fight for the dark side until his death.

    Dracos thoughts, however, were far from his father, Voldemort or his followers. Hewas thinking of a mudblood. A mudblood who made his blood boil. He still could notunderstand the exact time where he had begun to feel...pleasant...to his formerenemy. He could not call it love. He could not even say he liked her. He did not. Nordid he hate her. This was what had him confused. His feelings towards her wereneither here nor there. He had absolutely no idea how to treat her anymore.Angering her was fun, but not in the way it used to be.

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    This is pathetic. What am I supposed to do? Tell her I dont hate her? Yeah, Draco,but what will her next question be? Why? You cant even answer that yourself! hethought, the urge to put his fist through the wall next to him was strong. He waspissed off...no he felt even more than pissed off. He felt an overpowering anger andit was not to her or to himself. It was to his feelings and the way he could not workthem out.

    What if you really do like her and youre just trying to block it out? the thoughtcame to him, but he immediately shook it out of his head, No, thats not right. Itsprobably just because youve seen her so often lately that youre starting tounderstand her as a person not just as Pot heads mudblood girlfriend. He smiledwryly at the thought. What would wonder boy think if he knew his best friend hadseen him so often on her holidays? He allowed himself to chuckle for a few momentsbefore his anger beset him again.

    He remembered her words as clear as day. She wanted nothing to do with him, thatwas very clear. Shell find out about Dan soon enough, then shell be sorry. Shellfeel really stupid then. he nodded to himself.

    The images he had of her were etched in his mind. If somebody asked him for adescription of her he felt he could give it better than the Weasel or Scar head. Hercute freckles on her cheeks, her chocolate brown eyes, so trusting and yet dauntingall the same. He could smell her fruit scented hair, his senses becoming hazy. Herrather well developed body and how her uniform suited her so well. She wasbeautiful, not even an enemy could deny that.

    Youre going too far, just dont go to that store anymore. his mind instructed himwisely. But his heart disagreed, desperate for any excuse to see her again, Yes butyoull see her at school anyway and besides that if you dont go there, youll give offthe impression that she won. We wouldnt want that now would we?

    He rolled his eyes at the fight going on inside him. It was completely pathetic. Heshould not be thinking of her in the first place. He should never have tried to warnher of Dan either.

    Because I love... his near confession came back to him. He cringed as he saw thehorror stricken look on her face. He could have sworn that he had seen want in hereyes but he had thought that over and decided it was only his want to see that in hereyes. Something he had made up to console his distraught thoughts.

    She doesnt want me. She never did and she never will. Weve been enemies eversince first year. Nothing, absolutely nothing can change that. Stop thinking of her,close your eyes and go to sleep. his brain instructed him.

    He closed his eyes but sleep would not come to him. Closing his eyes seemed tomake his thoughts go even more wild. He could see her more vividly, could smell hermore vividly. Her soft arm when he had grabbed her. His face so close to her own asthey bickered.

    An idea suddenly came to him. Another trick he could play on her. He smiled, allthoughts of hating her and never visiting her again faded. This trick would annoy herand scare her if all went well. Grinning broadly into his pillow, he finally could sleep,his plan and thoughts of her whirled around in his dreams.

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    *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

    A table for two please. Dan told the blonde girl at the desk. She nodded, showingthem to their table. Hermione and Dan had gone to the famous restraunt, TheMuggle Way. This restraunt was famous for its completely muggle delicacies.

    Hermione thought it would be a lovely little place to take Ron and his family.Mr.Weasley, she was sure, would find it quite appealing.

    So Hermione, what would you like to order? he asked her with his cute smile, hisdimple on his chin could be seen in the soft candlelight.

    Hermione smiled at him. Thoughts of Draco Malfoy and what he had said were stillfresh in her mind. She was still reeling with anger. How could he have said suchthings about Dan? He really was the nicest person she had ever come across. Whenshe had been fighting with Draco, she had begun to doubt herself, his presence hadbeen driving her insane. Draco good looks allowed him to get whatever he wantedwhen he wanted. She had won their dispute, she had refused to let Draco Malfoy getthe upper hand.

    Gazing in Dans face she was even more assured of Dans reliability. He was the veryimage of the sort of guy she would like to spend the rest of her life with. Draco wasextremely good looking, but he lacked the personality, which she craved. Danseemed to have this personality in bucket loads.

    If only Draco and Dan could be put together. Then youd have the perfect man.Hermione could not help thinking as she ordered the pasta without the mincemeat.Dan, fully aware of her vegetarian tendencies, decided to order the same. The lastthing he wanted was for her to faint again.

    So what do you want to do when youve finished school? Dan asked her, sheshrugged, Im not really sure right now. I guess I wanted to be an auror but Im not

    sure if fighting is really for me. Im more of a scholar than a warrior if you knowwhat I mean.

    Dan nodded, Yeah labour work does not seem to agree with you. I dont know whyyou continue with being a checkout chick. Its for the dumb girls who are too stupidat school to do anything else. Youre far from dumb Mione.

    Hermione blushed furiously, Being a checkout girl is not for dumb girls. Somepeople just arent gifted at doing school work...

    Unlike you. Dan interrupted and Hermione became even more flushed. No, Imjust saying. I mean look at my friends. Harry and Ron are good at the warrior, herostuff. Im only there to help them to give them a logical thought on things. What Im

    trying to say is Im pretty useless at the physical things. So back to your originalquestion. I think Ill end up doing an office job at the Ministry.

    Dan scoffed, You want to work at a place like that? Come on! Youre MUCH betterthan that. Those fools at the Ministry have no idea what theyre doing. Dont be afool.

    Hermione frowned slightly. Apart from the Ministrys rather rude treatment of Harryin the past few years, she did not have anything against them. In fact, from

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    everything she had heard, having a job at the Ministry was something to be veryproud of. An honour. Percy Weasley had once described it as.

    You cant seriously be thinking of going there? Why dont you start up a business? Abook store! Dan suggested. Hermione shook her head, No, I dont want a shop.Being at the Ministry will allow me to develop my skills. Maybe even working for the

    Daily Prophet. Ive always enjoyed writing, and I could be the first reporter who doesnot lie! Hermione smiled.

    Dan shrugged, clearly not happy with her career ideas, Excuse me for a minute willyou? I need to remind the chef that we dont want meat. You know how they canignore those things. Hermione nodded, taking a sip of the water in her glass.

    Why do I get the feeling he wasnt being straight with me? Hermione thought, thefeeling of being lied to was getting to her. She looked around the restraunt. It wasfilled with couples of all ages. Dont be stupid, its just Malfoys words getting intoyour head. she reassured herself.

    Your stupid, pathetic excuse of a boyfriend is cheating on you. Youre a chld. You

    cant see what Dan is hiding. You cant understand that hes a bad person. Dracowords cried in her mind over and over like a broken record. She could not ignorethem any longer.

    She stood up and walked around the tables until she reached the kitchen. Sheglanced through the circular plastic window on the door. Once look confirmed herworst fears. Dan was not there.

    Calm down Hermione. He probably went to the toilets. she muttered to herself.She was about the walk through the small corridor, which led to the toilets when sheheard Dans voice.

    Yeah I know dear. I cant get home right now, Im working but I promise Ill bethere soon. Yes, they made me work overtime. he was talking to someone.Hermione peeked around the corner. Dan was using the public phone fixed on thewall. He seemed rather agitated, he was facing the other way but by the way hestood she could tell. She had seen him angry before when he was dealing withstubborn customers. He stood just as he did now.

    Hes probably just talking to his sister or mum or something. Hermione tried tomake excuses. But dear, was certainly not a word Hermione could picture Dan usingwith his Mother of his sister. That nagging feeling that Dan was lying to her wastugging at her again.

    Of course I love you. Im going to marry you arent I? Listen I really have to go. Ill

    be there soon! Dan cried, he glanced over his shoulder and Hermione moved backjust in time. She did not look back. She leant her head against the wall for a fewmoments. She could still hear Dans voice but it was very distant from her now. Herthoughts were louder and clearer.

    Tears were brimming in her eyes. She did not want to cry, but it seemed her bodyneeded to. She fought with her tears and her thoughts as she ran from the restrauntand out into Diagon Alley. She let her tears run freely. Sobbing every so often.

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    Draco Malfoy was right. He was right. You were wrong. You let your love for Danblind you to the truth. Draco Malfoy was right! How could I ever face him again? Hewould jump at any chance to humiliate me. He had been right... Hermione keptthinking and repeating in her mind. She did not know where to turn. Everything inDiagon Alley reminded her of either Dan or Malfoy. She wanted to get away.

    Closing her eyes and visualizing her room, she disapparated. She hated Dan, shehated him more than she had hated anyone, even Malfoy. Malfoy may have beenconniving, scheming, disgustingly rude, but he had never lied to her. Lying, was inHermiones books, the worst habit a person could have.

    Astonishingly she was grateful to Malfoy. He had warned her and Hermione was sureif she had not received that warning she would have been in more of a mess thanshe had been then. Perhaps it had been kama? She had slightly believed Malfoyswords and her thinking of them on her date had caused it to become a reality.

    Whatever it was, she owed Draco Malfoy. She owed him a favour and an apology andshe did not wish to fulfill either. Her pride and dignity would never allow it.

    I wont think of him. Ill think of how much that thing...that bloody asshole calledDan, hurt me. I hate him. I cant believe he did it. I cant believe he lied! thethought frustrated her more. What caused her the most woe was the fact that shehad never seen it herself. She had always seen Dan as a caring, loving, kind person.How wrong she had been, and how wrong Malfoy had proven her.

    Chapter Eight

    She had black bags under her eyes and her expression was solemn. She was tired.She had to be careful because if she closed her eyes for too long she felt as thoughshe would fall asleep. It had been a whole week since she had bumped into DracoMalfoy which she saw as the starting point of the mess she had put herself into. Butthen, if she had not bumbed into him, she would never have found out about Dancheating on her.

    She had felt so terrible that morning as she got ready for work. For the first time

    ever she did not want to go. She knew Dan would be there, although she was hopinghe would take the day off. She had left without explanation and he would want toknow why. She did not think she could face him without slapping him, or punchinghim. But amazingly she had been able to explain to him that she knew ofhis girlfriend or rather his fiancee and that she never wanted to go out with himagain. He understood well enough.

    She had a four hour shift. During this shift she served many people in her year,including Dean Thomas, Seamus Finningin, Lavender Brown, Pavarti adn Padma Patil

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    and Neville Longbottom. She had yet to see Harry and Ron but thought it would onlybe a matter of time.

    Many of the customers had asked her if she was feeling well. She did not quiteunderstand what they meant by it, but taking a look in the mirror on her short toiletbreak, she soon figured it out. There was nothing. No magical spell or concoction and

    no muggle remedy which could cure heart break. For she was indeed heartbroken.Dan had been the first real guy, apart from Viktor Krum, that she truly felt aconnection to. It broke her heart that Dan thought she was so easy to manipulateand con. Hermione had half a mind to find this Victoria and tell her what a cheat herfiancee was. She thought better of it. At least one of them should be happy.

    Hello. Hermione stated shortly. She had no kind and friendly greeting for anybodytoday. She was sad and although the rules were that she was to act happy and kindto the customers at all times, she could not bring herself to put a smile on her face.She was depressed so why should anybody else in the world be happy?

    She reached out for the first item the customer had placed on the belt. It was

    sausages tighly sealed in plastic. These she had no problem with. But she looked on.Piles of meat. Her heart immediately began to race at a million miles a minute. Shewas afraid to look at them properly just incase it was him so he looked at the personquickly and looked back down. All she had been able to recognise was blonde hair.

    Why are you here? she murmered, close to tears again. Everytime she thought ofDraco Malfoy she thought of what he had told her about Dan. The truths that he hadbrought to her attention still hit her like a gale force wind.

    Excuse me? I am here to shop for food. Isnt that what you sell here? the voiceasked. Hermione looked up again and this time kept her eyes on him long enough tosee who he was. It was not Draco Malfoy as she had expected but a blonde boy who

    looked remarkably like Draco. He had the same icy blue eyes and soft blonde hairwhich was no longer slicked back. His skin was pale and he had a pointed noise. Heeven had the same snobby air about him.

    Hermione glared at him slightly before answering, Yes we do sell food andnumerous other things. she snapped, looking back at the meat and picking it upwith no trouble. The last tiem she had scanned so much meat she had fainted. Andinto Draco Malfoys arms apparently. Hermione thought with a sour taste in hermouth.

    The teenage boy in front of her smirked that same confident smirk that Hermionehad seen Draco use so often with her. It was disturbing how much he looked likeDraco. She scanned another item then looked back at him. He was finding her bad

    mood entertaining and was silently laughing, leaning against the silver bars whichseparated two registers.

    What is so funny? she seethed, her jaw was clenched and the way she picked upthe meat and dropped it into the bag gave away her mood.

    When you look angry, youre face goes so red it looks like a tomato. he chuckled,rather amused by his own snide remarks.

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    She was fit to burst. If there were not customers waiting in line she was sure herfuse would have blown and she would have charged at him like a bull seeing red.Hew as infuriating! He was gorgeous! He was an absolute snobby bastard. He was solike Draco Malfoy!

    Well come on! Look how long your line is! he snapped her out of the menancing

    glare she had been giving him as she thought of what he was. Must keep cool...Hermione warned herself as he continued to laugh at her.

    Five items left to go and she was unable to control a loud sigh of relief when she wasfinally up to the bit where he had to pay. Glad to see me leave? After all the thingsIve had to do for you and not a single word of thanks. You should be kissing theground upon which I walk. the boy remarked, his nose high in the air, his sharpstare staring down into Hermiones soul. He could see right though her.

    Hermiones eyes narrowed and before she knew what was happening the boy in frontof her began to transform. The customers behind him gasped, some even clappedanother sighed in awe. In a matter of seconds none other than Draco Malfoy stoodbefore her.

    Surprise. he threw his arms wide, gave a bow to her and then to the customers inline. Everybody but Hermione clapped and cheered.

    Youre an animageous? Hermione gasped, completely shocked and overawed. Helooked back to her and lifted an eyebrow. Animageous? No, youre smarter thanthat Miss Granger. Im rather fond of the polyjuice potion if youre so interested toknow.

    Hermione shook her head at him, Thats illegal and you know it.

    He shurgged, So did you but that didnt stop you from using it and you were what,

    four years younger than I am now?

    Hermiones eyes widened, You knew?

    Draco gave a hollow laugh, Of course I knew! When Crabbe suddenly start sproutingWeasleys hair, I knew. Weasleys hair colour is one of a kind. Besides if I was sostupid to not see that, perhaps Goyle suddenly obtaining Potters one-of-a-kind scarmight have given away your secret. Either way I knew.

    Hermione slightly blushed, Why didnt you tell anyone? Surely it would have been agreat honour for you to report it to your dear Professor Snape. Or perhaps even yourfather?

    The smile slipped from his face at the mention of his father, Dont.

    Dont what? she asked with a playful grin, Mention your...father?

    He glared at her and she smirked, about to say something else but was cut off.Excuse me, that was a wonderful display. the elderly man said without anypleasentness to his face. It was obvious that he did not find Dracos transformationwonderful in the least. But I am in a hurry here and I cant wait around all day. hefinsihed with a snap.

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    Hermione was quick to apologise, Im so sor...

    Silencio! Draco cried, his wand pointed at the old man. He could no longer speakand looked rather furious. Hermione turned on Draco.

    What do you think youre doing? I could get sacked for this! Hermione moanedangrily. She looked over to the service counter and was glad to see that nobody hadnoticed her predicament.

    He shurgged, Nothing to be angry about. In fact I would be doing you a favour.Hermione cringed at the word favour. He noticed and grinned broadly. Ah yes,favours. Youve been getting a lot of those from me and by your appearance I say Iwas proven right about what I told you last night? Hermione clammed up.

    He shook his head slightly, he smiled so that he exposed his gleaming white teeth,Meet me outside after your shift and well go for a little walk.

    Hermione opened her mouth ready to resist this before he spoke above her, Where

    you can thank me properly.

    He gave her the money he owed her for his shopping and undid his silencing spell onthe old man who began to shout insults and threats at him.

    See you later Miss. Granger. he winked at her than strutted off with his shoppingbags. Hermione watched him, even as she served the old man. He was threateningto dob her in but she was far away. She did not hear him. She watched Draco as hewas outside. She saw through the see-through glass Draco throwing his shoppingbags full of meat into the rubbish bin then walk off into the busy street of DiagonAlley.

    Chapter Nine

    So what is this all about Malfoy? I know your stupid little pranks are to annoy mebut honestly arent you going out of your way here? I know if I was you I certainlywould not be putting so much time and energy into making my enemy feelannoyed. Hermione said as calmly as possible as they, for the second time, went fora walk down Diagon Alley.

    He did not answer. They continued to walk and Hermione was getting morefrustrated by the minute. He had asked HER to go on that walk not the other way

    round. It was his idea. Did he just want to walk around with her without saying athing?

    Speak Malfoy. Im not going any further unless you tell me why Im out here. I wantto know why on earth I agreed to walk around with you. Hermione stopped in hertracks, crossing her arms over her chest to further emphasize her annoyance andstubbornness.

    He stopped also but instead of looking at the ground as he had been the whole time

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    they had been walking, he stared at her. His expression was grave. He gave noindication as to what was disturbing him. In Hermiones eyes he looked confused,mad and deranged. It was almost like he was in a situation he could not control. Butthis thought was brushed off. Theres nothing Malfoy cant control.

    If I knew the answer to that question I would not be here at all. Draco said softly.

    Hermiones eyes widened. His voice had never sounded so affectionate before. For afew seconds Draco Malfoy appeared to be like a normal teenage boy who understoodnothing of his emotions but believed he knew everything of the world.

    Then what is the purpose of this? Hermione asked, motioning her hands fromherself to him, What is the point of dragging me out here for a conversation youdont even know is about. Is it to find out the answer from me?

    He shrugged, Maybe you do have the answer but youre just not willing to share itwith the rest of the class? he grinned at her as he said his little pun.

    She rolled her eyes, Well so sorry to disappoint Malfoy but I dont have the answer.So if you would excuse me I have better things to do than trying to find out what is

    the cause of your distraction and obvious disturbance.

    Suddenly awareness beset Dracos body. He knew the answer the moment she hadsaid, distraction. It had been so obvious and yet he had denied it for so long. Denialhe still strongly had against his sudden brain wave. She was distracting him. Hecould not call it love. Not love, something...different. But definitely not hate either.he thought.

    She was gazing at him with curiosity. He threat to leave had been forgotten.Suddenly she wanted to know everything about him. She wanted to know what wasin his mind. She wanted to know why he was so mean to her all those years. Shewanted to know who the girl was in his wallet. She wanted to know who it was he

    had used the polyjuice potion to transform into. There were millions of questions yetthe only one she could muster enough courage to voice was, Do you hate me?

    He looked straight into her eyes. He had been stunned and caught off guard with herquestion. He was stunned even more but his answer, No I dont hate you.

    The bustling crowds of Diagon Alley felt out of the picture. There they were standingin the middle of Diagon Alley revealing things they had never thought possible whilstinnocent people shopped. It seemed insane.

    Lets go somewhere a little less...erm...crowded? Draco proposed, without takingher arm as he had done on their previous walk. They walked quickly to the nearestalleyway which just happened to be the same one they had been in before.

    Cant you just tell me what it is Im doing that has stopped you from hating me? Icant remember doing anything that might have made you feel...erm...happiertowards me. Hermione asked quietly, tears shining in her eyes. She had no ideawhy she was about to cry. He had only told her that he did not hate her. Isnt thatwhat she had always wanted? For them to get along. For the bickering to stop? Butnow that it had come about she wanted to go back. She felt uncomfortable aroundhim when he was not telling her what a filthy mudblood she was.

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    He frowned at her, I dont know okay Granger? I just know I dont hate you. Maybeits because Potty and Weasel arent around to stop me from actually talking to you.I dont really know you, you know. I mean it is possible that we have things incommon. Draco suggested to Hermiones disgust.

    Common? Us? Ha! Were as far from common as King to peasant. There is NOTHING

    in common between us. Why cant you just hate me again? I liked it better when youhated me. Hermione lied, desperate for something normal to take place.

    He could tell straight away that she was lying but chose not to expose it. I broughtyou out here so that you could thank me for trying to tell you about Mr. Sleaze. Ordo you not remember my latest favour to you?

    Hermione blushed slightly, I...well...

    He rolled his eyes, Its pretty simple Granger. You just have to say two words.Thank you. Simple really...

    She smiled. He was being normal again, he was teasing her. She could have shouted

    out with trimaphance but was composed enough to realise it would be pretty stupid.

    Thank you Malfoy for being an insencere prick and telling me blandly about Danbeing a cheat. It was really great to hear it from someone like you. Would havemade my day if I had not found out first hand that night. Hermione saidsarcastically.

    The smile on his face slipped and instead a glare replaced it. I never had to tell youGranger. I did you a favour. Dont expect me to tell you every time your boyfriendcheats on you cos Im willing to bet itll happen pretty often.

    It was Hermiones turn to be shocked and disgusted, How DARE you! You really are

    an insolent bastard. I bet the reason you come here every day to piss me off isbecause you have no life. I mean this is what your father does for a living right?Instead of bashing up first-years he kills innocent people. You two are practicallyidentical!

    He was steaming with anger now. She, not Potter nor Weasley could get him riled inthis manner. Perhaps this is what attracted him towards her? Her ability to fight himback with words and not physically as so many other had done.

    You may be smart in the classroom Granger but outside youre as dumb andignorant as Longbottom. My father, for your information, is nothing like me. I amreminded of this every day and have been reminded of it for my entire life. Malfoysaid boldly and yet Hermione could still detect sadness in his tone.

    Hermione was slightly ashamed by what she had said. She had no right to talk abouthis father in such a way. Yet he was so nasty and mean to her...she had no otherchoice. Is your father really as horrible to you as you and others let on? I mean Ivemet the man and honestly I dont think he is capable of love or kindness. She hadoften thought about this. Lucius Malfoy was certainly a treacherous creature and itwas an amazement to her that Draco was still alive and before her. Thoughts of howDraco must have suffered whilst he was a child made her shudder.

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    He leant against the wall behind him. Think of how I treat you and times is byinfinite and then you may get close to how horrible he is Granger.

    Hermione could not help a little gasp. It may have been quiet but it had been audibleenough for him to hear. His heart hammered in his chest. Was she re