Disclaimer: Although it may not seem like they are sometimes, every character, except me, belongs to JKR; and so does anything else pertaining to HP. On occassion there may be other original characters besides myself (but not quite as 'original').

Note: Some of the events may be similar or somewhat altered versions of JKR's HBP, but I assure you, this was not my intent. I do not wish to try to change that beautiful course that the books already follow.

I will now take a moment to add that if you clicked on this fic expecting something better...read it anyway...pretty please with hot fudge, whipped cream and a great big cherry on top sprinkled with sugar.

Reader's Beware...
This is a true story; every event in it has been recorded exactly as it happened (in my imagination). I am typing this from my room here at U.B Crazy Asylum for the magically deprived. This is the place where muggles put 'freaks' like myself who 'think' they're witches (or wizards). I keep trying to tell them that Hogwarts is real and so is Harry Potter ( I met the dude, okay?)

My Hogwarts Boyfriend

I am Anne (Annie) Prince. Beany is my boyfriend. He's mine (and no you can't have him). Beany and I have been together for like ever. And, yes, I know he isn't perfect but even so...

Episode 1 The Meeting

While I was on my way to the Slytherin Common Room with my 'friend' Pansy; we saw Draco, Crabbe, Goyle, and some guy I didn't know coming toward us.

"Hey Dracooo," can anyone say ewww with me?

He ignored her and introduced him to me for the first time.

"Prince, this is Blaise Zabini. I'm sure you already know these two." he jerked his thumb toward Crabbe and Goyle respectively.

"Yeah, I know those two." I replied with a similar implication; and come on, let's be honest, who doesn't know Crabbe and Goyle? Anyone?

"Hi." I added for Blaise's benefit.

"Hey." he said in a voice closer to a whisper than a greeting.

"Somebody's blushing." Pansy teased.

"Shut up, Parkinson!" he yelled pulling out his wand.

She made a face at him.

"Now, stop that," I began "violence will solve nothing; although...."
***
Later that day, when everyone was gone form the common room, save for myself and Blaise, we sat and talked for a while.

"So, why hadn't I seen you around before?" I asked, as always getting the conversation started. "Were you hiding from me?" I teased.

He remained quiet, uneasily so; "Come on, I don't bite you know..."

"Well, you see, the thing is, you hadn't seen me because, to be honest, I was sort of hiding from you." he finally admitted "I was a bit...shy, I suppose."

I considered the meaning behind his words, "Hmmm, shy, did you say?" this had two possible explinations 1)he was afraid or 2)he was interested I decided it was probably number 2.

"Oh, I get it..." I ventured, "could you possibly be afraid? Ha. Never thought I would inspire that in a guy, much less in a Slytherin."

"I'm not scared," he defended himself. I burst out laughing, I don't do giggles. He seemed to realize that I'd been joking.

"I know the real reason why; don't hurt yourself trying to tell me."

"Really?" he asked, seeming relieved.

"Really." I said, "I'll think about it. Well, good night." I didn't mean to kiss him, it just happened.

He didn't seem to mind it too terribly.

"Is that a 'yes'?" he asked when it was over.

"Maybe," I said.

"Maybe yes or maybe no?" he prodded.

He was so persistent, how could I possibly resist?

I chewed my lip. "Yes!" I answered.
----
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I didn't tell Pansy right away; we've never been what you could call close friends. And besides, who is she to know about my business? Nobody. And anyway, she'd find out soon enough.

Episode 2 Pansy's Thought

After I said yes to Blaise, he must have lost all trace of his 'shyness' because when I made my down the stairs to the common room with Pansy tagging along, I found him there waiting for me.

"What's the meaning of this?" she sneered. "What are you doing there Zabini?"

She seemed temporarily confused and flattered until...Pansy has always been a little slow in processing new information (it seems like a miracle that she's made it this far).

...suddenly she turned to me, then looked back down...

"You have got to be kidding me; ughhh, I'm leaving."

"Good riddance," Blaise called after her, "Your face was starting to bore me. Would you like an escort to breakfast?" he offered me his arm.

I didn't take it. "It's good of you to offer, but I can take myself you know."

"Oh...well..." he seemed unsure of what to do with himself, so finally he lowered his arm. "I was just trying to..."

"What," I asked, "be a gentleman. Geez. You need to lighten up. Anyway, we better go before Crabbe and Goyle eat everything." I walked with him; he seemed satisfied.
***
Of course I took a seat next to him, but only for Pansy's benefit; I loved any chance to make her look sour, so what if we were 'friends'?

"What's the matter Pansy? Choke on an acid pop?" Draco laughed at his own joke; and so did Crabbe and Goyle or at least I think that's what they were doing

We were spared from suffering more of Draco's attempts at humor, by the sudden disappearance of our breakfast. Draco, Pansy, Blaise, and I (Crabbe and Goyle weren't NEWT level yet) walked together to our first class of the morning, joint Potions with the Gryffindors.
***
I liked playing hard-to-get, so instead of sitting with Blaise, I took a seat with Pansy (and he sat with Draco, looking satisfyingly dissapointed).

"So, you and Zabini huh?" she asked the question in an attempt to not look too inquiring; her tone clearly suggested otherwise.

"Is it that obvious?" I replied, trying to sound casual as well but failing miserably, "Besides, what's it to you; I thought you liked 'Draco' " I said the name with the same tone she always used.

She blushed; and so did I, when Draco heard his name, he'd turned around and smirked at me (making poor Blaise look very sour).

We were both quiet after that. We chopped, stirred, mixed, and brewed for a full thirty minutes; then, miraculously, she spoke again.

"Since when?"

"What?" it took me a while to grasp what she had just asked.

She gave me a meaningful look...

"Well, if you must know; since last night."

"Don't you think that was a bit hasty; seeing as you've just met and all...." she ranted on and on; I wasn't listening, but thinking about when we'd met.

When she was done, all I had to say was: "Jealous much?" before stalking out of the room class had ended.
----
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Although I hated to admit it, Pansy did have a point: maybe things were moving too fast. But then again, what she considered to be fast and my own opinion on the subject were two very different things...

Episode 3 The Speed of Things

He seemed a little shocked to find me there sitting at the foot of his bed, when he woke up.

"What are you doing in here?" he asked "I mean......how long have you been there? Why? When? How?"

"Aren't we in a question-asking mood today?" I laughed. "Hey, you went looking for me first, remember..."

"Yes, but not in your room..." he interupted.

"I'm not sure you would be welcome in the girls dormitories, my dear." I said, interrupting his interuption.

"Have you been watching me?" he asked, both surprised and amazed, but only until...

"You know as much as I'd like to say 'yes'; I've actually only just gotten here. I was just sitting here wondering when my 'escort to breakfast' would wake up." I quoted his request from the previous morning. I adjusted myself more comfortably on the bed. "Nice pajamas by the way; but I must say, that shirt...it really doesn't do you justice." I said, noticing the already obvious fact that he was wearing none.

"You could warn me you know." he pulled the covers over himself, hiding himself completely.

I uncovered his face, "Oh, so you wanted me to wake every Slytherin male, and let them know that a girl was about to enter the dormitory of Mr. Blaise Zabini; well, excuse me for caring about privacy. Besides, don't you think me knocking on your door would give the wrong impression?"

"That's not..." he started loudly....and then "That's not what I meant." in a whisper.

"Whatever, in any case that's not what I came here for. I wanted to know if you..."

"Can't it wait, I'm just not exactly in any condition to chat right now."

"No, it can't, Mr. I-can't-be-shirtless-in-a-room-with-my-girlfriend. And, if it would make you feel in 'any condition' to talk to me, why don't you just slip something on?"

He gave me a look that I took to mean...

"Oh, is it really so hard to be honest . Don't worry about me," I said "I won't watch, I promise." I stood up with my back turned to emphasize my words. I could hear him rising from the bed and shuffling to his trunk.

"You're very different," he stated, as though this fact were a mere technicality; while he looked around in his trunk for a clean set of robes.

"Thanks, I think. Are you about done, I kind of need to talk to your face, not a quidditch poster." I half turned to check on his progress.

"Hey!" he was just pulling some pants on.

"You know what? I think it can wait." my mind made up, I went to breakfast, without an escort.
***
We didn't speak again until after all classes had officially ended. And it just so happened that it was Friday, and we'd have the whole weekend to ourselves...

"So, why were you in my room this morning?'' he inquired.

"I don't know, I guess I just couldn't help it."

"You wanted to ask me something, what?"

"Oh, um, it's nothing, it's a bit embarrassing to be honest." and it was

"What is it?"

"I'm...not going to tell you."

"Whatever," he shrugged, "but 'is it really so hard to be honest?' " he repeated my exact words slyly.

I felt like throwing something...

"Yes," I said with no trace of amusement, "it is."
---
I hope that you found this chapter satisfying, as always your thoughts are much appreciated.

Every morning it was the same, I made my way to the boy's dormitories as soon as I woke up and dressed. Today he and I would be going to Hogsmeade with Draco and Pansy. Sort of like a...

Episode 4 Double Date

Saturday morning dawned a little earlier for me; when I walked in I didn't expect what I saw. He was still asleep, but that was to be expected. What took me completely by surprise was something else entirely. The other bed, usually empty when I arrived, not only had someone in it; it had Draco Malfoy in it. He woke at the sound of my entrance, as surprised to see me as I was to see him.

"What are you doing here?" we both asked in a voice just above a whisper.

"Until recently, I was asleep; I didn't know you'd come pay me a visit." he teased, "I'm flattered."

"Ha ha, aren't you a smart one? I didn't come to see you; in fact, I didn't even know you were my boyfriend's roommate." I returned.

"I don't know what you see in him." he said.

"You're the one that introduced us; remember?"

"Whatever."

Our argument seemed to disrupt Blaise's peaceful slumber. He looked toward the source of the disturbance. He rubbed the sleep out of his eyes.

"Good morning." I greeted him.

"I don't see what's so good about it," he said; apparrently noticing my proximity to Draco.

I laughed.

"You don't honestly think...? Why would that even cross your mind?" I said, walking toward him.

He got up, not looking entirely convinced. Draco smirked and did the same.

"Will you be ready soon?" I asked.

"I shouldn't be too long," he told me.

"Pansy up yet?" Draco inquired, starting to take off his shirt.

"Have you no shame?" I shot at him. "Besides, how should I know; how long your 'girlfriend' sleeps is not my concern." To Blaise I said, "I'll be outside, before your 'friend' starts...." I glared at Draco and walked out.
***
The walk to Hogsmeade ended more quickly than I had hoped; our first stop was Madame Rosmerta's.

As soon as we had sat down, Pansy launched into a long discussion about the latest in beauty products. Blaise interrupted by saying:

"Well, you don't seem to be putting them to good use, Parkinson. You still make us sick, even Malfoy thinks so." he said, pointing to her boyfriend's empty seat.

I swallowed a laugh.

"Let's go Blaise. Before it gets ugly." I said.

"Ugly-er, you mean."

We were both laughing all the way to HoneyDukes; he bought me some sweets. We ate them on our walk back to Hogwarts.

"So, are you going to tell me now?" he asked.

"Tell you what?" I asked, between bites of a licorice wand.

"Oh come on, it can't be that bad; can it?"

"That really more of depends on whether you...can beat me to Hogwarts..." I started running.

"Hey, wait up!" he called after me.
***
In the safety of the Slytherin common room, I waited for him to arrive.

"If anyone asks, you had a head start." he huffed, letting himself fall on the couch beside me. "So, what did you and Malfoy talk about this morning?" he asked.

"We mostly argued about how jealous he is of us," I said. "We both know that Pansy wouldn't be caught dead in there. He just wishes she could be more like me, I suppose." I said the second part more to myself. "It was nothing of importance." I concluded.

"So, you really weren't..." he trailed off.

"Hell no." I almost shouted. "I mean, I know every girl here practically swoons for him; but I don't." I assured him.

His mood seemed to pick up a little after that.

"Next time, It'll be just us." he said.

"Is that a promise?"
----
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Ever since that episode with Draco, Blaise and I had been spending a lot more time to ourselves. It had been a week since that Saturday and things were starting to get pretty serious, or at least I thought it was that way...

Episode 5 Beany!

While walking along the seventh floor corridor, I heard a sound that both pleased and confused me. It was...wasn't it...Beany's voice?

"Hey there," he said smoothly.

I was just about to answer the greeting when I heard giggles, very odd, unfamiliar-sounding giggles; I didn't want to jump to conclusions, yet still I wondered.

As I turned around to look, I did not like what I saw; he was flirting with them. You could practically see the smoke coming out of my ears; I saw red, someone was going to get hurt. "Bea--" I started to say, but I stopped myself, fortunately before he could hear me. I decided I'd let it play out a while longer.

"Soooo," he deliberately dragged out the word, "maybe we could go out sometime." Was he kidding? For his own good, I hoped so.

Again, odd giggles erupted from the strangers, more loudly this time. At this point I was beginning to doubt that they possesed the ability to speak. What happened next was stranger still.

"What's all this then?" Draco had come seemingly out of nowhere, the wall it seemed... And then, right before my eyes, the strange girls that mere seconds ago had been making loud impersonations of sick kittens, began to change.

Blaise swallowed back what he had been about to say and instead gagged audibly.

"What the--hell?" he practically screamed; his suffering greatened when he saw me there, arms crossed, with an 'explain yourself' expression on my face. Then, at the sight of Crabbe and Goyle, standing precisely where the girls had been, I went into a momentary lapse of barely-muffled laughter.

"Oh--my--god! Beany!" I said without thinking, "I can't believe that you were -- actually putting the moves on -- Crabbe and Goyle." I choked through my hysteria.

Blaise's face flushed, and seeing and hearing this, Draco began to laugh an obnoxiously loud laugh.

"Zabini...or should I say 'Beany'?...whoa, I never knew that you..." he did not finish the statement. Crabbe and Goyle waved mockingly and batted their eyes at him.

He was about to pull out his wand, but changed his mind at the last minute and stormed off in a huff toward the dungeons. I recovered from my laughter, "Hey, Blaise, wait. I'm..." I started after him, one last look backwards showed me Malfoy and his thugs still in a mad fit of laughter. I knew that, by tommorow, everyone would know.

I was about to catch up to him when...
***
When I walked into the girls restroom; I heard singing...terrible singing

"...I'm better than everybody in the school; I'm hip and I'm awesome all the girls know my name...H-H-Harry Potter that's my name..."

Hearing this stunned me into silence, all other thoughts immediately leaving my mind. He hadn't heard me enter apparently, because he continued with his song.

"...I was even awesome when I was a baby. I defeated Voldemort when I was a baby. Both my parents died when I was a baby. I grew up abused without any love..." Obviously I thought to myself.

"Harry Potter...no one can have more testoserone than me because I'm Harry Potter." [ to hear full song watch, The Vortex ]

I applauded, drawing his attention to my presence.

"Wow, Potter; aren't you a budding superstar? Don't even care where you are do you? Do you mind telling me what exactly you are doing in the girl's room?"

"I was..." he thought, "looking for the Chamber of Secrets?"

"Sure. Good luck with that." I left, mainly because I did not want to hear another song.
***
As I entered the slowly emptying common room, I found a seat next to Blaise and just let out a long breath.

"Rough day?" he asked, sounding like he really didn't care.

"You don't know the half of it. You look like you had fun, though."

"You would know," he said sourly.

"Look, I'm sorry about that whole mess, but you really should be happy that it was just Crabbe and Goyle, otherwise I would..."

"What?" he asked.

"I'd have done a lot more than break up with you. If those had really been girls."

"Really? What were you...jealous?"

"Just warning you," I said darkly, "Besides, you didn't have to run off like that."

"So, what, you wanted me to stay so you and Malfoy could humiliate me more?"

"No. I just..."

"Well, I don't care. Why did you call me that anyway?"

What had I called him...oh no....

"I didn't mean to say it out loud," I began.

"Well, I like that you could give me a nickname, just try not to use it in public." he said decisecively.

I smiled, "It's a deal."

True to my word, like the good girlfriend I am. I did not call him by his nickname anymore (at least not out loud). And for the next few days, I spent most of my time with Pansy (please don't ask me why).

Episode 6 Flying Lesson

"Don't you think...OW...that Drac...OW..." Pansy shouted as we ran through a corridor with Peeves at out heels throwing random--not to mention sharp--objects at our heads.

As soon as I heard that name, I stopped trying to pay attention and went to my happy place. Soon the corridor melted away and a grassy meadow full of rubber ducks and real lollipop trees took its place.

I stooped to pick up a rubber duck from the ground and began singing "Rubber Ducky"; I was jerked back to reality by a throbbing pain in my forehead. Cursing Peeves, I picked myself up only to find that I had collided with a wall.

I groaned as I saw the smug look on Pansy's face. Luckily, she decided to give me a rain-check on whatever rude, snide, or sarcastic remark she had concocted. I was in too much pain to return to my 'happy place' and risk further injury, so I was forced to listen as she spun a tale of woe and sorrow. I'm totally kidding; she actually just continued to tell me how DracOW had offered to give her flying lessons before Qudditch practice.

I considered this a very brave deed on his part; I mean, who would want to waste a perfectly good broom on trying to teach Pansy, of all people, to ride it.

Wanting to show off her boyfriend's gallantry, she invited me to partake in watching this event.

"Sure," I said when she asked, "I have nothing better to do."

"Meet me at the Common Room at 3." she said, ignoring my comment.
***
When we got back to the Common Room, it was already 2:30; and after changing into more suitable clothes, we made our way to the Quidditch Pitch.

We found the team rolling around in the mud, a brilliant new strategy no doubt. As we approached, Draco went to fetch two brooms--a Nimbus 2004 and something that resembled a worn-out branch with a few fragile twigs attached on one end. So he wasn't as dumb as I'd thought. He offered me one as well, but I declined. 'Maybe some other time.'

Of course, Pansy didn't notice that her broom wasn't fit for even a Muggle closet. She was with Draco and she didn't have her contacts in. After a few tries, Pansy finally managed to get off the ground. Draco and one of the Beaters flew on either side of her to keep her from losing her balance or falling.

I had skipped lunch--Pansy-Draco time always made me a little nauseaus. Unfortunately, Pansy hadn't ; let's just say she didn't have the stomach for flying. It was not a pretty sight.

Since I was bored out of my mind--and a little queasy from what had just happened--I edged closer to the team members that remained on the ground, and listened to their interesting conversation.

"How long do you reckon it'll hold out?" I heard.

I found it a little rude to hear them refer to Pansy as an 'it'; intrigued, I listened more closely. I soon figured out that the guys had a bet on how long the poor-excuse-for-a-broom would last before completely disintegrating. So much for Draco's gallantry.
***
After working out the finer details of the infamous bet, I had nothing to do except watch Pansy fail at flying.

Then, I saw somebody running towards the Quidditch Pitch shrieking a curse to the sky with the white road smoking behind him and his [wand] brandished high.

Actually it was just Beany and he wasn't doing anything particularly interesting. I couldn't give him my full attention because I was waiting for Pansy, my 'best friend' to fall.

If I had been watching Beany, I would've realized that he was standing precisely beneath Pansy, a real danger zone. With a loud and sudden crack: the broom passed on, the Keeper collected no less than 15 galleons, Draco screamed 'My Eye!'; and Beany was completely hidden from sight.
***
"Are you okay?"

"I--I think..."

"Blaise?" I ignored Pansy's half-response.

"Get this cow off me!" his voice was muffled.

"Pansy; get off of my boyfriend."

She did so, looking offended. I offered Blaise my hand and asked him the same question again; differently.

"Does it hurt?"

"Uh...yeah." he answered.

In the background we could still hear:

"My Eye! Get it Out!"

"I'm trying! Hold still; I can't see anything."

"That's probably because there's nothing to see." I pointed out. "Let me take a look."

"No." Draco immediately said.

"Case closed. Let's go Blaise."
----

Okay, I know it seems like I'm always bossing Beany around but I just can't help it. After all, this fic had to have some reality. Don't forget to leave feedback.

After dinner that day, we all sat in the common room; some of us, namely me and Blaise were working, others merely relaxing. I still hadn't told Pansy that she had been the object of the Slytherin quidditch team's comic relief.

Episode 7 Brooms and Boys

At that moment, my thoughts on the subject were interupted by a yawn from my apparently tired boyfriend.

"I think I'd better turn in." he said sleepily.

"Me too." Pansy piped up.

"O---k." I found it a little strange that they would leave me alone in a room with him. But I did nothing except to glare at Pansy and give Beany a quick, suspicious kiss good night.

As soon as they were both tucked safely behind the closed doors I took my chance.

"Why are you such a drama queen?" he ignored the question so I tried again.

"So, have you told her yet?" I asked nonchalantly.

"Told who what?" he replied.

"Oh you know perfectly well what I'm talking about, Malfoy. Why couldn't you just take her for a normal broom ride and save yourself the trouble? Were you guys really that bored?"

"I did ask you to come, but you don't take hints too good."

"So now it's my fault that she was dropped on Bea--Blaise?"

"Oh, it's not like I planned that; Zabini had no reason to be the..."

I cleared my throat loudly.

"Oh, of course." he smirked, "Jealousy."

"Of you?!?!" was he serious?

"Prove me wrong."

"Fine, I'll take you up on that broom-ride offer...tomorrow morning. I need to get to bed too," I yawned overenthusiastically, "See you then, you'd better be in the common room, I don't want Blaise to get 'jealous'."
***
I made my way on quiet, cautious steps to the dormitory that housed his royal highness, the drama queen himself.

I tapped my broom lightly on the floor. "Get up, you lazy scheming...."

"Someone's in a bad mood," he started to say but then he caught sight of the broom in my hand and was rendered speechless. "Is that? No it can't be, how can you.....you're a girl."

"Yeah, a girl that's losing her patience with the 'boy' that promised a *secret* morning broom ride. Hurry up will you, I don't want him to see us leave."

"You're kinda worried for someone who's so sure he isn't jealous of me." he noted.

"Really? In that case, I'll wait outside."

I was already in the air when he finally came out.

"Whoa!" he shouted. "How fast does that go exactly?"

"I don't really know, let's find out, race you?"

"You're on."

"You're dead."
***
The 'race' took most of the morning, as he kept demanding a re-do, some males just didn't like to admit that girls could beat them at their own games.

When we touched down, we had a surprisingly 'passable' conversation.

"Well, you fly okay; but there are a lot of ways that you could improve your technique. Your flying skills affect your ability as a seeker. And another thing, why won't you let girls on the team, that's messed up."

"I could improve; I've never seen you play."

I ignored this: "You rely too much on your opponent, that could cost you. Do you want the quidditch cup this time? I know you do. It's your last year here right?"

"How do you know that?"

"You're easy to read. Besides, Blaise told me you might not come back next year." I was surprised at how easily I could talk to him, Draco wasn't exactly the kind of person that struck people as friend material.

"Do you know Legilemancy?" he asked in a suspicious tone, " I can shut you out."

"That's not neccessary, your face gives it all away; especially your 'eyes'." I half-laughed remembering the eye incident. "Speaking of which; I know there was nothing in there. So why'd you scream."

"I did not." he protested. "I-it was a cover-up." he admitted.

"So, I see. Do you want a go on it?"

"What?"

"My broom, do you want to ride?"

"You're serious?"

"There is a price."

"I knew it."

"Let me on the team."
---
Feedback

I was getting impatient with waiting for him to take in the request. I was a bit used to my abilities at flying and Quidditch shocking people; but the shocked parties were usually girls. I thought that by now, knowing how many witches at Hogwarts were on their house teams, he'd be used to the idea.

Episode 8 Mutual Agreement

"You want me to put you on my team?"

"I do have skill. I am the best Seeker on my team; but to answer your question...yes. I guess since you're already Seeker, Chaser would be alright for me."

"You mean, you're actually serious; you really want to be on the team. But you're a girl." his point being...?, "I don't know about this..."

"Well, I could help us actually win a few games."

"I don't need a girl to win."

"Whoa. Egocentric much?"

"Quidditch is a wizard's sport."

He must never have heard of the Holyhead Harpies.

"Gryffindor is almost all girls and they always beat us," I pointed out, "Although that may just be that Potter is a better Seeker than you...but I assure you; I am better than Potter."

"No!"

"Fine! I'll just have to talk to my cousin about it."

"What could she possibly do?" he snorted.

"He." I corrected, "I happen to be a Prince, and coincidentally, Severus Snape's cousin. I'm sure he can help change your mind."

"What? Snape is your cousin!?!"

"Through my aunt, yes. We're a very old wizarding family."

"That exlains the broom." he muttered to himself.

"You think my talent comes from my expensive broom?!? I can take your Nimbus and still beat you around the Pitch." I snapped.
***
"You know about brooms." it was not a question.

"Duh. That's why I had this one custom made; to fit my 'needs'. But I'm sure that even without my FireNimbus 3000 I could still make a great addition to the team."

"I suppose......" he struggled, "but then, who's place would you take; what would the guys say? What would they do?"

"We can always use my plan."

"What's that?"

"You hold my 'try-out' at your next practice. Then they'll see that with me on the team, we've got it made."

"I don't know; worth a shot, but......" he stopped, I had been about to do something that I knew, had I done it, I would later have regretted it. I stopped myself from hugging him and held my had out awkwardly instead.

"Thanks, Malf-Draco; you won't regret it."

But, I thought to myself, I probably will.
***
Telling my boyfriend my 'good' news was going to be tough. It didn't help that Draco kept dropping hints all the time like "Talk to your girlfriend lately, Zabini?" or, to me (when he was around) "Don't forget, next Saturday."

It was getting on my nerves so I finally told a confused and rather angered Beany that I was to be the new Chaser on the Slytherin team.

His reaction was a little different than I had expected; he just laughed.

"Wait a second....you? what? I thought......" he could hardly speak he was laughing so hard.

"Why is it so hard to believe that I could be good at Quidditch? Why does it amaze people that I know so much about the sport; you know sometimes I honestly wish I was dating someone on the team....maybe the Seeker." that seemed to quiet him.

"Sorry." he said, "It's just that, well, you took me by surprise."

"There's a lot of things you don't know about me.....obviously."
----
Feedback

I got to the pitch a little early so I decided to fly around for a while to warm-up before the rest of the team got there for my official 'tryout' to begin. I started out by just doing a few laps around the pitch but when I saw a crowd approaching I couldn't help but show off a little--ok a lot.

Episode 9 Quidditch Practice

As I touched down, six very shocked faces looked up at me--it was easy to se that the Slytherin quidditch team could not believe what they'd just witnessed. I saw some dropped jaws, but most of their focus was on my FireNimbus 3000.

"What's the matter, never seen a girl fly before?"

"Never like that....how did you get so.....?" said DeLacey, the keeper in astonishment.

"How did I get so....what?" I asked.

"What are you doing here anyway?" he managed to pull his eyes away from the broom in my hand.

"I see your poor-excuse-for-a-captain, didn't tell you. Why Draco?"

"W-well, I-I was going to...b-b-but...." he stuttered.

"Forget it, I'll do it. I'm here to fill the last remaining spot in our sorry team." I said.
***
"What?!?!" the whole team said in unison.

"I knew you'd love the idea." I said with mock enthusiasm. "Shall we get started?" I asked Draco.

"S-sure" he mumbled.

"Great, so what do you want me to do first?"

"Well, we've sure as hell seen what your bloody broom can do; have you got any talent?"

I ignored this rather stupid remark, and said audibly "Draco would you be so kind as to let me use your Nimbus 2004 for my 'try-out'?....Please." I took particular care to emphasize the name of his broom.

He handed it over without comment.

"Thank you. DeLacey, good luck; you'll need it."

DeLacey stationed himself in front of the hoops and the rest of the team stayed on a lower level to watch.

After I got the first twenty in without so much as a minor deviation from the keeper, the guys begun to look seriously worried. I made a few more, and I kept at it until DeLacey's fury blocked the last three.

"Now do you believe I have 'talent' Burke?"

He was silent.

"So, I think we all know that with me on the team, we've as good as won that first match. Should we start practice now, 'Captain'?" I inquired of Draco after we were all once more on solid earth.

"You don't have to call me that, " he said, holding out my broom. "No,"I said, "you keep it for the rest of practice, wouldn't want people to think I'm relying too much on it for speed."

Practice was more of a blur of guys trying to show off and do better than me. It went by somewhat smoothly, all things considered.

Finally it was time to head in, all the balls were put away, but Draco was having trouble finding the snitch. He finally gave up and just came down.

"Looking for this?" I said, holding it out to him.

"Where'd you get that," he asked, puzzled.

"While your idiotic team was arguing about the nature of my 'talent' , I took the liberty of finding it for you. I couldn't help it; I told you, I like seeking the best."

I don't need a fast broom to catch it. I added under my breath.
***
"You...er...you did a good job today."

"Whatever."

"No, really; you're right, with you on the team there's no stopping us." he said.

"Well, thanks, I guess. Say, have you seen Blaise?"

"Had to go and ruin my day, didn't you?" he said in a low voice, more of a whisper; I almost didn't hear it.

"What's that?" I asked.

"He's probably at dinner." he replied indifferently.

"I could go for a little dinner; couldn't you? We can walk together...if you want. Seeing as how my boyfriend seems to have forgotten to pick me up after practice like he promised."

"You--you want to walk...with me."

"Hey, it's not like it's your deathday," I said "I just don't like walking around the castle alone. You don't have to walk with me if you don't want.....to. Hey!"

"Let's go." he pulled my arm.

"Hungry are you?" I teased.
***
When we got to the door of the Great Hall, he let go of me.

"Wouldn't want you-know-who to think ill of me," he said.

"Yeah...right. Sure." I answered.

I went to sit in my usual place by Beany, but he wasn't there.

"Hey, Pansy, where's Bea--Blaise?" I asked her.

She tore her eyes away from Draco to answer; "He said he wasn't hungry."

I decided I wasn't hungry either, instead I went to find my boyfriend.
***
"What are you doing in here so alone," I asked "Pansy said you weren't feeling up to eating anything, are you okay?"

"My health is fine." he said curtly.

"Beany, what's wrong?" my voice dripped concern.

"Nothing" he said not looking at me.

"Blaise Zabini, what is your problem? Look at me!"

"Problem? I don't have a problem, he's the one with the problem can't keep girls off him can you?."

"What are you mumbling about?"

"What were you doing with Draco Malfoy?" he asked darkly.

"I told you, I'm on the team now; why didn't you go to practice, you said you'd come with me. I...."

"He didn't have to walk you to dinner."

"Is that what this is about? Oh, please," I answered sarcastically.

"Malfoy....is just a guy, Blaise. You're my Beany." that seemed to convince him; partially, at least he was looking at me now.

His urgent kiss caught me a bit off-guard, but I returned it with interest.

"You-don't-have-to-worry-about-Malfoy." I said in one breath.

"I'll come to your next practice," he assured me.

And I just had to kiss him again.
----
Sorry y'all I know that it's been a while since I last updated, so what did you think of the tryouts? I am now an official Slytherin Chaser. Let me know what you thought: feedback

Beany didn't have to wait long to keep his promise. Now that I was on the team, our dear captain was making us put in twice as much practice time than the Slytherin team had ever had (which as you may have guessed didn't amount to much). But I wasn't about to complain.

Episode 10 Friends

Beany's hand was warm in mine; we were taking our time on the way to the Pitch, so you can imagine the kind of reception I was given when we finally arrived.

"Why the hell are you so late?"

"A Prince is never late; everybody else is simply…early."

"I have much better things to do than wait for you to…..What’s he doing here?"

"He is my boyfriend. Now, if you’re quite through with complaints…."

"So who’s complaining?"

I rolled my eyes at him and gave Beany one last, deliberately long—so as to get on Draco’s nerves—kiss.
***
Practice lasted a little longer than I had initially thought it would, but that might have been because of Beany’s presence there. I suspect that Draco made us go through the same drills twenty times over simply to annoy him.

When it was finally over and I’d changed into a set of school robes, I walked toward my awaiting boyfriend. But just as I was about to reach him…you-know-who caught up to me.

"So, how’d I do?" he asked.

"As a captain or as a seeker; come to think of it, you bombed both. You dragged practice out way too long and you weren’t exactly focused on the snitch. This team needs more practices not longer days."

"Maybe you should be the captain, since you obviously think you could do a better job. I’d like to see you try to control them," he said pointing at the team.

"Let me tell you something, Malfoy; I…'' but just as I was about to finish telling him off, Blaise came up to us.

''Ready to go?'' he inquired impatiently.

''Ye…''

"No, as a matter of fact she isn’t," began Draco "she has to help me perfect my seeking abilities."

"Is that so?" Beany raised an eyebrow.

"Well?" he said, turning on me now.

"When did we make this arrangement, Draco dearest?" I asked with mock sweetness.

That seemed to do it for Blaise, "We’re going, now!" he stated with finality.

"Sure, whatever you say," I didn’t even try to resist; my plan had worked perfectly.

I waved to Draco, "See you at dinner."
***
After practice, I had played on Beany’s jealously to get me away from the pitch and the ‘captain’. Now, at dinner, I acted as though he didn’t even exist…he noticed.

"Good practice wasn’t it?" he tried, in vain, to start a conversation.

"Did you say something, Blaise?" I ignored the attempt.

"I said…that was a good practice." Draco tried again.

"I seem to have lost my appetite; I’ll see you at the common room later." Beany nodded.
***
I waited for what seemed like an eternity before he showed up…no not Blaise…

"What took you so long?"

"I had to shake off Pansy,"

"Of course,"

"What do you want now?"

"I shouldn’t have to spell it out for you…I don’t even believe it, but…"

"What?" he asked anxiously.

"Blaise saw us walking together last night; I don’t know why, but he seems to think I’ve taken a liking to you of late…isn’t that weird?"

"S-s-sure I suppose…a little."

"What's wrong?"

"N-n-nothing, nothing's wrong..."

"Well, sit down then," I patted the seat next to me.

"Why are you doing this?" he asked.

"Doing what?"

"Being...nice...to me."

"Isn't that what friends do?"

"Sure, right...friends."

And for some unknown reason, he sounded...dissapointed.
---
So that's that. I know it's been a while but I'm trying to keep this as up-to-date as possible. Well what did you think? Comments, questions, complaints, suggestions: here

I didn't realize at first why he looked so left-out when I was around Beany. At first I thought that he was just jealous of him because I was a better girlfriend to Blaise than Pansy was to him...but then he did something that left me no doubt in my mind. It was Beany he was jealous of…but for a different reason than I’d thought.

Episode 11 A New Kind of Kiss - Part 1

This was the last practice of the week before the first match of the season, Slytherin vs. Gryffindor. It was obvious from how hard he trained us and how long our practices nearly always were that he wanted to win. Almost as if he wanted to prove something.

No one but me was quite sure what he wanted.

"You don't have to kill your team from over-exhaustion to beat Potter you know." I pointed out casually after practice. As usual he, Blaise, and I were the only ones left behind after all the others had gone.

"And who says I want to beat Potter?"

"Your eyes," I answered.

He avoided looking at me, "Well, they lie. I just want..."

"Hey, are you guys about done?" yelled Blaise from the distance.

“See you later then, Captain.” I told him, “Coming,” I yelled back at Beany.

“Wait,” he started,

I turned around. “What?”

“Nothing,” he said, “see you later.”
***
Transfiguration is not a particularly difficult or boring class. But somehow, it didn’t contain any excitement for me this afternoon.

While Professor McGonagall walked around making remarks like “Good,” “Try again,” “What is that?” and “Well done, Ms. Granger.”; I had my head down on the table beside my pile of newly-created paperclips.

“Is something the matter, Ms. Prince?” she asked, “Do you need to go see Madame Pomfrey; I see your work is done, you may go, if you wish.” Then she turned to the rest of the class, “Would someone please walk Ms. Prince to the hospital wing.”

What happened next was not something I’d been prepared for, before Beany could so much as raise his hand, Draco said “I’ll take her.”

If I hadn’t heard it for myself, I wouldn’t have believed that those words had come out of his mouth. But the look of agitation and confusion that came across Pansy’s and Beany’s faces confirmed that he had in fact just said that.
***
On the way to the hospital wing, Draco found his chance to say what he hadn’t been able to after practice.

“What?”

“I needed to talk to you…alone,” he repeated.

“Well, talk then.” I said, only a little impatiently.

“Not here, you and I both know you’re not feeling sick. Are you?”

“Well….no, but,”

“Let’s go then.”
***
When he had said those words I had thought that we were headed to the Common Room; but we were not headed toward the dungeons but up—to the place where Beany had been flirting with Crabbe and Goyle not so long ago.

“What are we doing here?”

“You’ll see.”

At that moment, a door appeared in the wall in front of us.

“But, I thought this room wasn’t supposed to exist. It was just a myth….and yet, here it is in front of me…the Room of Requirement.”

“This will make for a great place to talk uninterrupted.” he said, pushing the door open.

I walked in first, but was a bit disappointed to find myself in an empty room.

“So, what did you want to tell me that was so important that it needed to be done in an empty—ohhh…..”

The kiss caught me by surprise; so I didn’t react at all, but this stunned silence did not last long.

“Why did you do that?” I asked, slightly dazed.

He shrugged, “Because I felt like it.”

“But, what about Pansy…..oh my god,” I seemed to realize now what all those smirks, the stuttering, and possibly…letting me on the team, meant.
---
Sorry it took so long to update. But I hope this chapter was worth the wait. I will try to have Part 2 up soon. Feedback, as always, is much appreciated.

Episode 11 A New Kind of Kiss - Part 2

Only one day left until our first match and I couldn't stop thinking about her long enough to focus on quidditch; and when I did think about quidditch it only reminded me of her.

I still didn't know why I had done it; I didn't know the reason that could possibly have driven me to kiss her. I had never done anything that could come close to that with Pansy.

I had never felt this way...and she didn't seem to feel anything at all. Her lack of a reaction proved that. It did not seem to mean anything to her, so why couldn't I stop thinking about it.

And the crazy thing is...I wanted to do it again.

"Dracooo,"

Oh, please don't let it be true.

"There you are; what are you doing I thought we were going to Hogsmeade with Annie and Zabini."

Right, because that went very well last time.

"Can't you go by yourself; I don't feel very well."

"But you promised," she whined.

Promises are made to be broken.

"Pansy, please;" I begged, "don't start."

"But, they're waiting for us. Come on!"

"Just leave me alone Pansy! Don't you get it? This nonsense was over before it started!"

"You cannot break up with me, Draco Malfoy!"

"Oh really? As far as I know...I just did."

"Your mother's a...hippopotamus...mickey mouse...with a stick of dynamite-(For full version of this and other swears watch Wizard Swears)-Republican...Daniel Radcliffe...in a castle far far away where no one can hear you!"

"And this is news?"

She was silent.

"Is that really all you have to say to me after I just ended something that never even started?"

Then, she came in with him.

"Pansy did you find hi--are you guys coming?"

That hand she was holding so tightly should be my hand.

"No." I said, "You two go ahead."

She shrugged, "Fine by me, lets go Beany." and then she left, just like that. And she had no idea that I'd just dumped Pansy...for her.
***
It was starting to get cold outside, fall was really beginning to become obvious, but Beany kept me warm. Almost everything was perfect...

I couldn't help but feel that something was missing...I didn't want to admit that it wasn't something but someone. Why did I feel like the only thing that would make today truly perfect was Dra--quidditch.

Our first match was tommorow morning. It would feel great to be in the air again. The sky was my home, the wind was my company. Flying made me forget everything...

"What are you thinking about?" asked Beany suddenly, pulling me out of my day-dream.

"Why do you ask," I said innocently.

"You were smiling,"

"You make me smile." I answered.

He pulled me closer, and then he said the words I'd never heard him say once since he became my Beany.

"I love you."

I didn't know what to say, so I said the lamest thing I could manage.

"Me too." It was all I could think of, can't blame a girl for trying.

Then he kissed me, in a way he never had before. And this time not even quidditch could stop me from thinking of...Draco.

Quidditch!

Episode 12 The First Match of the Season

Never had a quidditch match made me half as nervous as this one did: Slytherin vs. Gryffindor. The odd thing was it wasn’t the match itself that I was nervous about; I knew that the outcome would be good as long as we stayed ahead of them.

No, it wasn’t the possibility of loss that made me nervous; was scared me was the thought of seeing the disappointment on his face, on everyone’s faces. After all, I was the only girl on our team…

“Let’s do this!”

Not the longest pep-talk but I was glad that he kept it simple, I didn’t need his words to add more butterflies to my stomach.
***
We were all in the air, waiting for Severus to give the signal; I assumed he had volunteered to referee this to get a chance to watch me play. And I was glad of it; I nodded a greeting and resumed my position.

The quaffle whizzed by me; the game was on! I immediately proceeded to get the ball out of the enemy’s hands. We scored easily; Weasley seemed to have his mind elsewhere.

As the game continued, we gained a steady lead: 50—30 but Draco still couldn’t find the snitch. I could see Potter searching so we might still have a chance. I knew we had to get that score up, sure we were in the lead but not by much.

I feigned a pass to Cheever and their chaser (I think it was the Weasley girl) went for it. I cheered inwardly and went for it, we scored 5 more times, bringing the score up to 100—50 and I was getting exasperated. Why couldn’t he hurry up and find it already, all of our hard work would be for nothing if he…I couldn’t finish the thought as a bludger whizzed by my head just missing me.

“Watch where you hit that thing, Burke!”

I flew on…then I saw a flash of gold.

“Draco!” Potter had seen it too...
***
"Where's the snitch?" "Who caught the snitch?" the questions echoed loudly around the pitch; I myself was wondering the same thing.

Severus flew down but the rest of us remained frozen, the game was over, the snitch had been caught. But...they had both grabbed it at the exact same moment so, who?

The dispute had to be settled, if Potter had indeed caught it first, it was over...Gryffindor would win. Severus wore a glove as he held the snitch and said the spell that would tell us whether or not we had lost all we had worked for.

I couldn’t believe it, we had tied!
***
Now, I was not very happy that we had tied; but at least we hadn’t lost. A very forlorn Draco shook hands with Potter and both teams and of course everybody else made their way on silent steps toward the school.

Back in the common room, we were received as we had always been, which (surprise, surprise) we weren't. Other than a few glances and some nodded greetings, we were completely ignored.

What I did find odd was that Pansy was not all over Draco as she usually could be found. I looked to see what his reaction to this was, I expected relief, I got…exhaustion.

We were all tired. Blaise came up to us, it seemed that other than Draco and I the rest of team had dispersed themselves throughout the room. “Malfoy…er…good job out there.”

He looked up, “Yeah, thanks.” Then he turned to me, “Practice…Saturday, next week.”

“Okay, I’ll be there.”

After he left, I confessed to Beany, “I’m worried about him, something’s been bugging him.”

“Forget about him,” he pouted, “please, for me.” I couldn’t resist his begging face.

“Oh, all right, I guess you’re right.”

After all, he seems to have forgotten all about me.
---
Sorry it took me so long to update I was honestly blank. Well hope you liked it.

I wasn't the only one surprised to find that the person sitting next to me in Defense Against the Dark Arts that afternoon was not Beany.

Episode 13 Draco's Secret

Pansy was staring at me, her contempt clear in her eyes. I met her gaze questioningly and then saw the answer.

"Draco," I looked at him, "Why?"

"I can sit wherever I want."

"I didn't say you couldn't sit here; but, she is your girlfriend." I said pointedly.

"Not exactly."

"Well...I still don't think Blaise would like this very much."

"That's his problem," he said casually.

When Beany walked in and saw that his usual seat was taken, he walked up to its smirking occupant.

"You're in my seat Malfoy."

"I don't see your name on it."

"Well, I don't see your lips on hers."

"That can be arranged."

A horrified look came across Pansy's face then.

"Don't even think about it!" I snapped, "Blaise...please, let's not make this an issue."

"Fine."

He was about to take the empty seat at Pansy's table when...

"Zabini! Why aren't you in your seat, perhaps you could tell me in detention tonight. 8 o'clock don't be late. Sit!" Snape's voice was unmistakable.

He did and class went on.
***
"Nonverbal spells. The art of.....I should hear nothing but the force of your shields, and for the less fortunate....."

"So tell me Draco...Rictumsempra...why did you and Pansy, dare I ask 'break-up'?"

Of course he did not notice that I had sent a spell his way until it was far to late and he broke into simultaneous bursts of laughter. I almost started laughing myself, but I kept my composure and thought the countercurse.

Severus gave me an approving nod, and for a second it looked like he was actually smiling.

"Well, I'm still waiting for an answer." I raised my eyebrows.

"Why didn't you warn me?" he glared.

"Hey, it's not my fault you can't protect yourself. Now answer the question."

"Sorry I forgot what was the..." he was on the floor, knocked over no doubt by the force of my shield, "damn, how did you?...question?"

"I told you, be ready." I offered him my hand, but he flinched when I grabbed his arm.

"Don't," he said.
***
I needed time to think about things, why had he flinched when I barely touched him? I needed to find a place where I could be alone, a place where I could hide...somewhere like...the Room of Requirement.

I wasn't expecting to find him there, but a small part of me was glad to see him.

Another part didn't like the fact that tears were running down his face.

"Draco? What's wrong with you? First you try to ruin my relationship and now you're in pain. I just don't understand it, I don't understand you."

He looked up at me, but I could see that he wasn't up to talking. I sat next to him, odd that our idea of a hiding place was the same. Or maybe he just wanted to see me...I ruled out that possibility, after all why would he?

"So, you broke up with Pansy, huh? She wasn't too thrilled about that in class today, I mean, about you sitting with me and not her. Why did you do it anyway?" There were so many things that I wanted to ask him, this was not what I had meant so why had it come out?

"I like you." he said.

"I know."

He looked confused.

"That's what friends do, they like each other." I said.

"No, I mean I really like you, as more than just a 'friend' you want to know why I broke up with Pansy, ask Zabini."

"Why would Blaise know?" I asked the question despite already knowing the answer.

"He's allowed to kiss you." he answered it anyway.
***
We talked for a long time, probably most of the night.

"Draco, can I ask you something?"

"What?"

"Your dark mark, does it hurt?"

"What? Who told you?"

"Nobody had to. You're in pain, I can see it in your eyes, Draco, I'm not blind."

"Well, then, I guess now you know my secret."

"I guess so."
----
Don't forget to leave some feedback.

We had lost track of time. So, by the time we both showed up at the common room...together....well, it wasn't good.

Episode 14 Conflicts

"Would one of you care to explain what the hell is going on?"

"Bea-I-we-it's not what it looks like."

"Oh? And what is that? Because right now all I know is what I see and I'm not liking what I'm seeing!"

"Maybe you better sit down, then we can talk..."

"Sit? I've been sitting here for who knows how long, waiting for you. And then when you finally decide to show up...he's with you. So tell me, what am I supposed to do?"

"I-I-I don't know, Blaise, I-just-it's not what you think...it's not what you think..." I gave up, and pushing past him letting myself fall on the chair. The tears I did not want to cry pathetically coming out.

This was our first serious fight. And it had to be tonight, about something that shouldn't even matter. I had thought that by now, he would get used to the idea that I was Draco's friend and that his feelings mattered too.

It didn't neccessarily mean that I would ever...

"It's not her fault! She's not lying!" Draco came to my defense, somewhat unexpectedly. "We-she didn't do anything wrong."

"What do you know?" said Blaise with cold indifference.

"I know enough to realize when I've lost. She likes you. She would never...not with me." he finished sadly, he'd run out of steam.
***
After Draco had left, Beany came and sat next to me. "I'm...look...I'm sorry, alright? Can we talk about it?"

"Oh, now you want to talk." I said, "Why? So you can yell at me some more?"

"No." he said gently, "I just, I don't know, I overreacted I guess. It's just, Malfoy, he just seems to be..."

"What?"

He smiled now, "I was jealous."

"And the truth comes out!" I laughed through my tears.

"Let's get some sleep. It's late."
***
I hadn't been up to their dormitory since Draco had so graciously decided to kiss me that day at the Room of Requirement. We had not talked about that last night, so I assumed that he was pretty much over it.

I went toward Beany's bed and was about to wake him with a kiss, when Draco, always the earlier riser of the two startled me.

"Nice to see you've decided to start coming in here again. Look, about last night..."

"Nothing happened last night," I said pointedly.

"Of course not. Go ahead, wake him up. What are you waiting for?"

I did so, but couldn't help the self-consciousness that came over me as he watched.

Beany stirred in his sleep, and opened his eyes slowly.

"Hey," I said, "Surprised to see me?"

"Not entirely." he replied. "Surprise me again,"

I obliged.

He got out of bed and started to get dressed. Not bothering to tell me to leave. This was a first. I looked away anyhow.

"I could go for some breakfast, you?"

"Yeah, we can go down together." he said, walking out.

I started to follow him, but felt Draco pulling me back.

"What?" I asked urgently.

"Is kissing him really all that much different than kissing me?"

I considered this and answered without hesitation.

"I don't know Draco. I've never kissed you."

Leaving him to ponder that, I ran to catch up to Blaise.
---
I know this chapter was a little short. And I'm sorry it took me so long to update, but I've just got so many ideas it's hard to focus. Anywho what'd you think: feedback would be nice.

Where was he? He hadn't shown up for class and it seemed like no one even noticed he was missing. Not even Snape. When class was over, I held back. I was going to find out more about this whether he liked it or not.

Episode 15 Curiosity

I was taking my time, moving slowly...waiting.

"What's wrong?" Beany asked.

"Nothing." I replied casually.

"You seem distant, are you sure it's nothing?"

"Yeah, sure. You go ahead, I'll join you later."

He shrugged, looking concerned, "Beany, I'm fine okay?"

He looked disbelieving. I kissed him lightly, "Go. I just have to talk to Snape for a few minutes. I'm fine."

"Promise?"

"I promise," I said, "Now please, go."

I watched him leave. When I was sure that everyone was gone, I walked to Snape's office and opened the door slowly. I stood there for a while not sure what to do with myself.

"Yes?" he asked, not looking up, "Do you need something?"

"I've got to talk to you, it's about...it's about Draco."

He remained quiet for a long time before looking up at me, "Sit."
***
"I knew that sooner or later someone would notice. He's not very good at keeping things to himself."

"What exactly is he supposed to be keeping to himself?"

"I assume you know that the boy is a death eater?"

I nodded, "Well, sure but most everyone does."

"Yes, well, that isn't his only secret. As you may also know, Lucius, his father is in Azkabhan. Draco believes that if he is succesful that his father will...well, no matter. You don't need to worry about that. It's not your problem."

"Not my problem? Severus, what's going on? What's Draco doing? I know you know."

"As I said, it is not for you to worry about. I'm watching him, no harm can come to him. Don't concern yourself about it. Speak of this to no one and do not ask me anymore." he indicated the door, "Now, go, I have work to do."
***
It was a pity that he was such a good Occlumens, but if he thought that his answers had quelled my curiousity, he was dead wrong. I knew better than to try asking him again, so I would keep my word, and not ask him anymore questions.

My biggest concern would be having to keep from asking Draco about it. I knew Legilimancy of course but that wouldn't help. Even if Draco turned out not to be a very good Occlumens. But if I so much as tried to read his mind, our friendship would be over, and that was something I didn’t want.

I wanted to help him but how could I do that without putting our friendship on the line? I arrived at the common room still thinking about Draco and secrets. I hardly noticed the door open before I could say the password.
***
“Hey,” Blaise greeted me cheerfully, “you’re back.”

“Oh, hi Blaise,” I said distractedly.

“Blaise? Now I know something’s wrong. You hardly ever call me that anymore, unless you’re in a bad mood or around certain people.” It was clear from the way he referred to Draco that he was suspicious.

“Sorry,” I said, “I was just thinking…Beany, if you knew something about someone…a secret…but they didn’t know you knew…would you tell them?”

“I don’t know, I guess it would depend on what I knew. Why?”

“Just curious,”

We walked into the common room and sat on one of the many couches.

“So, what’d you talk to Snape about?” he asked.

“Nothing much, “ I replied.

He wasn’t satisfied by my answer, but didn’t ask more about it.

“You’ve been distracted lately,” he noted.

“Have I?”

“What’s on your mind?”

“Too much,” I said, leaning into him.

“Tired?” he asked, stroking my hair.

“No,” I yawned, “just resting.”

“You should try to get some sleep, quidditch tomorrow.”

I opened my eyes, “Yeah, you’re probably right.”

Long story short...we won!

Episode 16 Surprises

Back at the common room, everyone except the seeker celebrated our victory over Hufflepuff. After the common room had calmed down a little, Beany, Pansy, Draco (reluctantly) and I gathered in our own little party.

"You were great." Beany said, pulling me closer to him.

"Draco caught the snitch," said Pansy, who despite their break-up still apparently had feelings for him. I was surprised to find that she even knew what a snitch was.

"Malfoy wasn't the only one playing,"

Pansy stuck her tongue out at him in a childish way, as if to say, "So?"

"There were other players out there besides either of us." I pointed out.

"Well yeah, but none of them looked half as good on a broom as you did." Beany said.

"I hope you're talking about the other girl players." I teased.

"Funny." he said tickling me.

"Give me a break," Pansy said only half-joking.

When we stopped laughing, I noticed that Draco was gone. I looked around and found him standing not far from the door.

"I'm going to take a walk around the castle, Beany. I'll be back in a bit." It wasn't a complete lie, but it was hardly the truth.

"Okay," he said, "We'll wait for you,"

"Speak for yourself," said Pansy with a snort.

I ignored her.

"Draco," I whispered as I passed him, "I've got to talk to you."

I walked out. I didn't get far before I wondered if he'd heard me, then as if reading my thoughts, the door opened.

"What do you want?" he asked, not looking at me.

"Follow." I said.
***
We walked into an empty classroom.

"What's going on, Draco?"

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Draco, I can't help you if you don't trust me." I looked at him questioningly.

He looked away, "Why do you care?" he asked.

"Someone has to," I said, still looking at him.

"Stop."

"Stop what?" I asked innocently. "I'm not doing anything wrong."

He looked at me suspiciously, trying out Occlumency but finding no resisting force. Then, realizing I was telling the truth he said:

"Stop looking at me like you know what I'm thinking."

"I only know what you want me to know."

"Right, I forgot...my eyes give me away." he said sarcastically.

"I'm ignoring your sarcasm."

"Well, if you were telling the truth...then why didn't you...don't you know..."

"I know," I stopped him, "between you and me, it's a little obvious."

"What's obvious?" he asked nervously. At first, I didn't know why he was so nervous, then I noticed we were standing dangerously close. I moved.

"What's obvious?" he asked again.

I took his hand and whispered, "I can't."

I didn't have to elaborate, we both knew what we couldn't do, it wouldn't be right. I had let go of his hand and was now sitting on the floor, leaning against the wall.

"No," he said sitting next to me..."but I can."

And he kissed me for the second time, only now I kissed him back...I didn't know why. I broke the spell that held us together.

"Draco..."

"It's because of him, isn't it?"

I thought it through, and then said something that took us both by surprise.

"Not entirely."

"Then why?"

"I don't know...I didn't...I wanted to talk to you...I didn't want...didn't mean for this to happen."

"You're not making any sense, if it wasn't what you wanted...why did you kiss me back?"

"I have to go." I said.

"Wait," he said, "...will you give me an answer?"

"It is different," I said, "with you."
***
I walked to the common room deep in thought. Why had I kissed him back? And what had made me say that? Why? How? So many questions. And not one answer from him.

My deep state of thinking was interupted by Pansy's sudden appearance. "Have you seen Draco?" she asked, "He walked out after you and...What?"

"Pansy, you're really worried...aren't you?"

"That's not your business," she snapped.

"Whatever."

"How was your walk?" Beany asked, sneaking up behind me.

"I wish you'd come," I answered, now honestly wondering if that would really have helped.

"I was thinking about it," he said, "but you looked like you really needed to be alone." Oh yeah, I thought, because I needed some alone time. Oh and incidently, I kissed Draco.

But what I said was, "I love you," well what do you know, today was full of surprises.
----
So there it is. I'd really love some feedback.

Sleep? I had too much on my mind, sleep was no more than a distant thought. And the common room was as good a place as any for thinking. Not wanting to wake Pansy, I got out of bed and went to find a comfortable place to sit and...think.

Episode 17 What Pansy Saw

I opened my eyes slowly, aware of someone watching me. I sat up rubbing my sore neck. Had I been here all night? At last I turned my attention to the person standing in front of me.

"Can I help you?" I asked sleepily.

"Good morning to you too." he replied.

"Draco?"

"No, its the easter bunny. What are you doing up so early anyway?"

"I might ask the same of you," I said icily.

"Should've seen that one coming," he smiled, seemingly unphased. "So why are you down here this early?"he asked again.

"You first," I said.

"You just don't give up do you?"

"Not a chance." I challenged, "Come on. Draco, tell me, it's not like you have to kill someone..." I trailed off.

"Do you?"

He nodded, words failed him momentarily, "All part of being a death eater," he said, "feel free to leave now."
***
"I'm still here," I said, "Draco, I don't care that you're a death eater...I care about you." I sighed, "I just wish you'd understand that. I want to help you." I stood to go, "Well, I better head to breakfast, as long as I'm up. No use waking..." he didn't let me finish.

I hugged him back, awkwardly at first, then more tightly. "Thanks," he whispered. "For wh...Pansy."

"What?"

I pulled away from him, "Pansy," I repeated, pointing up at her.

"Oh,"

"You can say that again," I groaned inwardly.
***
"Pansy, umm, you're up early."

"Apparently," she said ignoring his greeting, "so this is why you broke up with me? To be with," she looked at me, "her."

I was about to protest, she cut me off, "I must say though, you two do make quite the couple." Then she grinned wickedly, "Does Beany know about this?"

"Know about what?" he asked coming out from the boy's dormitories. I glared at Pansy.

"Nothing," I said.

Pansy rolled her eyes, a smirk still on her face.

"It's not important," I reassured him, "Why don't we all go have breakfast?"

I avoided looking at Draco on the way out.
***
All through Potions class, Beany glanced at me suspiciously. Finally, unable to stand much more of it I cracked, "What's up?" I asked with false cheeriness.

"Is there something going on between you and Malfoy that I should know about?" he asked, clearly hoping that I would say no.

"Pansy saw us hugging...it isn't anything to get all worked up about. And there's definately nothing..."

"All right class, leave a sample of your antidote on my desk on your way out." Slughorn interrupted my explanation.

"Parkinson saw what?!?"

"You're overreacting," I warned, "Draco and I are friends, why can't you accept that? It was just a stupid hug, get over it!"

"I am not overreacting," he said in a calmer voice, "How would you feel if you found out...I just can't keep my composure when...It makes me...uneasy."

"Uneasy?" I raised my eyebrows quizzically. "I'd say you were just a shade more than uneasy. Admit it, you were jealous." I smiled triumphantly, "Not that I blame you...he is a bit...cute."

"Don't push your luck," he said, "Next time, I may not be so quick to forgive you and your friend might find my fist in his face." he said coolly.

I laughed, "Oh really?"

He looked at me seriously, "Yes."

"I'll be careful then, now come on, we're gonna be late for class."
---
Sorry it took me so long to update hope you liked it. Don't forget to leave some feedback.

There were two reasons why I was doing this. One, I didn't know how much longer I could hold it off, and two, I didn't want to give Pansy the satisfaction of ruining my life. Sure it would hurt us both, but did I have a choice?

Episode 18 Too Risky

I dressed quietly, I didn't want to wake up Pansy. In fact I shouldn't even be awake at this hour. No normal person would be awake at 4 in the morning, but I wasn't normal and I had to talk to him before anyone else woke up. And I didn't want anyone to hear what I had to say but him.

They were both still asleep, naturally, I made my way quietly toward him. "Draco," I whispered, "wake up I have to talk to you."

He stirred but didn't wake. "Draco, come on...wake up." I whispered again more urgently.

Finally he opened his eyes, "What?" he all but screamed.

"Not so loud, I don't want to wake him up."

"Oh, but waking me up this early doesn't bother you? What--what do you want?"

"Not here. Hurry up and get dressed,"

"Why?"

"It's a cold morning," I said calmly, "I'll wait for you outside."
***
"This better be good," he said, "I don't like waking up this early for anyone."

"Well the news is not exactly good,"

"What?"

"Draco, I...this is really hard for me to say...I don't think that you and I should be so close."

"Close? How do you mean?"

"Well...uh...I....what if Pansy sees more than just an innocent hug next time. I don't want our friendship to ruin my relationship with Beany. I don't think I could take that....I..."

"What so you're saying we can't be friends anymore?"

"No...I don't...I don't know."

"Well it sure sounds like that's what you're saying. But why?"

"I don't think it's safe for us to spend so much time together. It's too risky. That doesn't mean we can't be friends. At least I don't want it to mean that."

"Am I still allowed to kiss you?"

There was the old Draco I knew. "That's what I want to stop. What if Pansy sees us."

"Who cares about what she thinks, I sure don't."

"Obviously," I said.
***
"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Well, let's just say you made that abundantly clear when you broke up with her. Didn't you stop to think about..."

"I did it for you."

"What?!?"

"I thought that if I...then maybe you...we...but you..."

"So that's what's in the Room of Requirement." I said absently.

"Stay out of my head!" he said angrily.

"Sorry,"

"Is that why you said all that, to catch me off guard?"

"What? No, it was an accident, I..."

"I'll tell you what was an accident; this conversation."

"Draco!"
***
I knew I shouldn't have used Legilimancy. That had ruined everything. And now I was pretty sure I had lost my friend. Not to mention that my boyfriend looked everything but concerned about...well anything.

I spent the day doing terribly in every class, so far none of the teachers had noticed my unusual behavior. Either they were being kind, which was unlikely since I am a Slytherin. Or I was better at hiding things than I thought.

I almost made it through the whole day until I got to Defense Against the Dark Arts.

"Miss Prince. See me after class."
---
Hey guys I finally updated. I hope you liked this chapter. I'd love some feedback.

Would Severus give me detention? It wasn’t as if I messed up like this every day. Next to Potter, I was the best in class. And, not that he played favorites, but I was his cousin. I couldn’t be in trouble…could I?

Episode 19 Prince vs. Prince

I was so preoccupied thinking about it that I didn’t notice everyone starting to leave. I would still be in a trance if Beany hadn’t brought me back to reality.

“I’ll see you later,” he said, getting up.

“What?”

“Class is over. Beg for mercy,” he smirked pointing toward Snape.

“Oh, yeah sure; see you.”

The room was now empty of everyone except Draco and, of course, Pansy.

“You wanted to see me…Professor?” I could feel them watching me. Severus nodded and motioned for me to wait, “Don’t you two have things to do?” he said in a voice that clearly indicated that they should leave.

Pansy waited for Draco to leave and then followed him out. Once he was sure they were out of ear shot, Sev revealed the reason why he had nearly given me a heart attack. “Your father seems to think that you and I don’t spend enough time together,” he began.

“That’s crazy! I get enough of you here at school…” I said before I could stop myself.

“Yes. Well, he believes that we should spend the holidays together.”

“But you've never spent Christmas at our house, you always…stay here.”

“Exactly,”

“At Hogwarts?”

“Where else?”

“But…but…no.”

“Good. Now we’re both unhappy.”

“But Sev…”

“You may go now.”
***
Christmas at Hogwarts; with a cousin who hated the holidays and a Death Eater who hated me. What had my father been thinking? Did he think that Severus would just all of a sudden decide that he needed family time with the Princes? What was next?

“Prince!”

“DeLacey? What are you doing here? I thought we had practice today.”

“Well, I do. Er…look, Malfoy doesn’t want you to come to practice.”

“What? Don’t be ridiculous I’m part of the team.”

“Well, uh, actually...look, just…”

“I am still part of the team, right?”

“Look Prince…I don’t know why he’s replacing you…the season is almost over and,”

I interrupted his explanation, “He’s…replacing…me? But, why?”

“Well, he is the captain.”

I nodded, I couldn’t believe that Draco would just kick me off the team. And he didn’t even have the guts to do it himself. Now I was really mad, why would he do that? I hadn’t read his mind on purpose. To take away the only thing I loved about this school besides Beany…that was such a...ugh.

DeLacey stood awkwardly apparently waiting for my response.

“You better get to practice,” I said, my voice heavy with sarcasm and anger, “You wouldn’t want to be… replaced too.”

“Right. Uh, well, I’ll, I mean we…the rest of us, we’ll well…”

“Just go.” I said.
---
Hey everybody, sorry it took me so long to post this. I had actually had it ready for a while but hadn't found time to post it. Anyway, let me know what you guys thought. Your feedback as per usual is much appreciated. I'll try to update soon

I knew this was ridiculous and that he probably had a good reason for doing it, but I still couldn’t help feeling a little teed off about the whole thing. After all, I shouldn’t have expected that something that good would last forever. But it was still unnerving to think that your own boyfriend would make you a promise and then…

Episode 20 Presents

“Guess who,”

“Ughh, Beany, I don’t have time for this.” I said, taking his hands from my eyes. “Why are you so late? You promised we’d…”

“I was…er…looking for this.” he held up a small wrapped box.

“What is it?” I asked, curiosity getting the better of me.

“It’s…well, it’s your Christmas present.”

“But, that’s still a couple weeks away,” I said, “why are you giving it to me now?”

“Don’t you want it?”

I raised an eyebrow questioningly, “Why wouldn’t I? What is it?”

“Open it and find out.”

“No, I think I’ll wait until Christmas, but thanks. Do you want yours now too? Since you’re lucky enough to be going home for the holidays?”

“I’ll take it if you want to give it to me. But…”

“Yes?”

“I’m not leaving you for the holidays, I got a letter from my mother, and she said she’d be too busy to spend Christmas with her son, so…I get to stay here, too.”

“That’s the best present ever!” I said, kissing him in thanks.
***
“Is that what was in the box?” I asked.

“What?”

“That you’d be spending Christmas here.”

“What? Oh, yeah. I wanted it to be sort of a surprise.”

“Well, you certainly surprised me. I was feeling bad about Draco kicking me off the team and…”

“Speak of the devil,” Beany said under his breath.

I looked up to see what he meant. “Oh, hi Draco,” just because he didn’t treat me like we were friends anymore didn’t mean I had to be rude. Apparently he didn’t feel the same way.

“Zabini, Prince.” He nodded in acknowledgement and moved on.

I couldn’t believe it, Draco Malfoy had managed to ruin what would have been a perfect day, and it only took him two words to do it. Sometimes, I really hated him.
***
I tried to regain the cheer that I had been feeling before Draco had ruined everything. "So, is that all I'm getting?"

"What?"

"Is that all you're giving me for Christmas? Just you."

"Maybe," he said in a conspirational tone, "how could you possibly want more?"

"Right," I agreed half-heartedly "...what else is there to want?"
---
Update! Yay! Hey guys sorry it took a while to post it. Hope you like it, I'd love some feedback. It's always good to know what you think.

In truth there was a lot more to want, or at least that I wanted. First off, I wanted for Draco to stop avoiding an actual conversation with me. I wanted things to go back to the way they had been before. Before we had kissed, and before I fell for him. I wanted for all that to be gone and for all of us to be friends again. But who was I kidding? I knew I'd never get that.

Episode 21 Confrontation

It was lunch time.

I picked at the food on the plate in front of me. So far I had managed to consume hardly anything. Mostly I had only eaten because of Beany, if he hadn't begged me to at least take a bite of something, my stomach would be completely empty. I hadn't eaten a thing since dinner last night and even then I only had a small meal.

I was depressed, for reasons I couldn't explain. I didn't know why Draco's attiude toward me should affect me. To be honest, Malfoy's opinion had never really mattered much at all to me.

Something had changed since that day he showed me the Room of Requirement for the first time. Since his lips had first touched mine, then, I had managed to steel myself. But then we had kissed a second time, a complete kiss, one I allowed myself to really get into.

"What are you thinking?" A voice interupted my thoughts. It took me a few seconds to figure out that it was Beany asking the question.

"It's nothing, I'm just...not hungry."

"You haven't eaten anything since yesterday. Are you sure you're alright?"

"I'm fine," I said, wishing he would just drop the subject and leave me alone to wallow in self-pity. But as always the concerned boyfriend, he didn't let me off that easy. He was too perceptive.

"Does it have anything to do with him?" he glared in Draco's direction. He was eating quietly a short distance away from us at the table.

"I said I'm fine!" I hadn't wanted to take out my mood on him, but I couldn't help it, I was angry. Angry at myself and angry at Draco. The whole world was my enemy. And it didn't help that Pansy seemed to be enjoying the fight Draco and I were apparently having.

"Look, I'm sorry, okay? I just have to be....alone."
***
My head felt like it was about to burst, I walked around the grounds for a bit. Until I ended up at the Quidditch Pitch. The last match would officially take place tommorow morning. I was fairly sure we would lose, not that it mattered to me anymore. I was actually secretly hoping that we did lose. That would show him.

I made my way reluctantly back toward the castle, time to endure Transfiguration, Charms, and Defense Against the Dark Arts. The first two didn't hold my interest. I knew I had to get through them. I didn't think that anyone, particularly McGonagall and Severus would tolerate it if I pulled another poor performance. I had done the absolute best I could since the time Sev had sentenced me to Christmas at Hogwarts. And I had pulled through pretty well.

Just one more day. Then I could lose myself in my anger. Normally, I wasn't one to let myself get this way because of a boy. I knew that I should never let them make me feel inferior. But this was Malfoy, the boy who always got his way. The wizard every Slytherin girl wanted to date and every boy wanted to be. Stupid Draco. I hated him.
***
You can imagine my surprise when I found him sitting in Beany's usual seat in Transfiguration. Pansy looked upset. At first I thought about sitting next to her and avoiding him.

But that just wasn't my style. I calmly took my seat and ignored his presence, if he wanted to talk to me, he'd have to talk first.

"Alright class, quiet down. Today we will be working on the Transfiguration of..."

"Why have you been avoiding me?" he said.

I almost laughed, "Look who's talking,"

"It's not my fault," he replied.

"Of course it isn't, Malfoy. Nothing ever is, you're just the innocent victim. If people get hurt, it's their fault." I said sarcastically. "It's always about you isn't it? Everything is about you."

He was quiet, obviously he wanted to let me talk. Well, I wasn't going to give him the satisfaction. "I'm done," I said. He waited a couple of minutes, to see if I really was finished.

"I'm not going to apologize to you." he said.

"I didn't ask you to." I answered coldly.

"Seriously, I don't see a reason to."

"Never said there was."

"...and the benefits of such a transformation are..."
***
"Why did you read my mind?" he asked.

"I already told you, it was totally accidental. I didn't mean to do it and I will not apologize to you for it."

"Fair enough."

"Oh, yeah? Then why are you using Occlumency?"

"How do you know..."

This time I did laugh, "Joking," I pointed out.

"Well it isn't funny."

"Draco?"

"What?"

"Does this mean we're friends again?"

"I guess it does."
---
Are we really friends again?
I'll try to have another chapter up soon.
You know how much I love feedback.

Thanks to our renewed friendship, Draco and I ended up spending the rest of the day together. But I had to say no when it came time for him to go down to the quiddicth pitch. We may be friends again, but that didn't mean I felt any better about getting kicked off the team.

Episode 22 Boy Friend vs. Boyfriend

Spending time with Draco felt somehow natural. It was almost as if none of the events that were now forgotten had never happened. It almost seemed like nothing had even changed. I had actually almost forgotten that I would not be playing in the final match against Gryffindor for the cup.

Almost.

"Do you want to come watch practice?" he asked. We were walking out of DADA in the general direction of the pitch after having sat together for the rest of the day since Transfiguration. Which you may have guessed did not make Beany very happy.

"No, umm, I don't think I'd better." I answered with only a hint of resentment in my voice.

"Oh," he seemed to realize why that wouldn't be a very good idea. "See you later, then."

"Right...oh man!" I said, the realization that I had spent practically the whole day with Draco hit me, "I have to go find Beany."
***
When I did find Beany, he wasn't exactly happy to see me. It was clear from the expression on his face that I was in big trouble. I decided not to say it, he wouldn't have believed me anyway.

"Hey," I said weakly.

He looked at me. I knew that I shouldn't have blown him off like that. I also knew that he found guilt in my eyes. I wasn't even trying to hide it. I was too tired to try to lie. I would just answer whatever question he asked and hope my answers were correct.

Luckily his questions were simple. At first.

"Ready?" he asked.

"For what?"

"To start acting like my girlfriend again."

"Beany, I am your girlfriend."

"If that's true, then why did you spend all your time with him today?"

"I did not spend all my time with him today. And I refuse to spend every waking moment with you."

"But..."

"Beany, we've talked about this. You know that I have other friends. I can't just be expected to spend the entire day with just one person."

"Parkinson is your friend, too."

"Pansy is going home for christmas." I said. "And, she's not my best friend."

That was the wrong thing to say.

"Best friend? Draco Malfoy is your best friend? I thought I was supposed to be your best friend. I am after all your boyfriend."

"It's not the same thing." I said.

"It's pretty close."
***
Christmas was only a week away. One good thing that came out of that was that Pansy would be gone tommorow after the game. Along with a good portion of the Slytherin House.

Tommorow morning would signify the end of the quidditch season. The chances of Slytherin getting the cup with a last-minute replacement Chaser were very slim. Very slim. Draco had decided that a good long practice tonight would help improve their game strategy some. But I doubted that we could win.
***
At dinner, I was wedged in yet another tight situation. I ended up sitting between Draco and Beany. At the moment, and for only about two seconds, I wished I were Pansy. But only for two seconds.

Pansy was caught between Crabbe and Goyle. Not precisely the best place to be, and I would be willing to bet that she was glad she'd be going home tommorow.

At first Beany and Draco mostly ignored each other. Then they both decided to talk at the exact same time.

That's when it started.
***
"Annie," they both said at once.

"What?" I asked, not looking away from my food so that it wouldn't look like I was taking sides.

"Well, the next Hogsmeade visit is tommorow after the game." Draco stated, while Beany glared at him. "Do you want to walk down together?"

"I don't kn..."

"No, she does not want to walk with you. She's walking with me."

"Well, why don't we all just walk together." Draco said sensibly.

"I don't think that would work very well." Beany said darkly.

"Why not?"

"Because, it turns out she's my girlfriend."

"She's my girl friend too." Draco said smugly.

Beany was about to say something I was sure he would regret. So I decided it was time to cut in.

"Both of you, shut up!" I said. "I'm not walking with either of you. If all you are going to do is fight over me, I am walking with Pansy."

Pansy looked up. "Fine by me," she said, taking a hint from the way I was looking at her. "I have Christmas shopping to do anyway." she looked at Draco and blushed.

"Well then it's settled. Oh and another thing. You are both insane if you think I am going to the game tommorow. I refuse to sit with you and hear you complain about Draco." I told Beany, then I turned toward Draco, "And you; I hate you for not letting me play. I hope you lose."
---
Hey guys, I know this was a little short. I will try to make the next chapter a bit longer. Christmas is drawing nearer, wonder what Pansy will get for Draco? Or more importantly for me? Keep reading. Don't forget to leave some feedback.

I should have known she would make me watch the game. I shouldn't have let her drag me there, but I had.

Episode 23 Christmas at Hogwarts - Part 1

"Hey! You came after all," said Draco not sounding in the least bit surprised.

"And what makes you think I came for you?" I asked, crossing my arms.

Beany walked up to us, "Yeah, why would she come for you? As I recall you kicked her off the team."

"Ah, and if I recall, I promised I wouldn't sit with you either." I informed Beany, removing his arm from around my waist. "I'm only here because of her." I said, pointing to Pansy.

"Her who?" they both asked.

I turned and saw that she was already a good distance ahead of me. "I'd better go," I said.

The game ended. I couldn't believe that we had lost. Well, actually I almost could. But it was still disappointing. Especially since we hadn't lost to Potter, we had lost to...his girlfriend. I was sure Draco would be a tad more than disappointed about that.
***
"Why'd you replace her?"

"It's your fault, and you're supposed to be good."

"She had the fastest broom."

"She was..."

"Shut up!" I yelled, "You'll give him a headache."

"What are you doing here, you're not on the team anymore. How'd you get in?"

I glared at Burke, "I am well aware that I am no longer on the team, you don't have to point it out." I said through my teeth, "I snuck in."

"How?"

"Does it matter?" I asked, "I'm here to cheer you all up. Sure it was Malfoy's fault but it was also everybody else on this team's fault too, you could have played better too."

"Thanks," Draco said, "But I think I can handle my own team!"

"Oh whatever! Anyway, I'll see you later I suppose, Pansy's got some shopping to do before the train leaves. Bye."
***
"Pansy, hurry up! We've been to three different shops already, just pick something."

She hadn't let me see what she had purchased for me, and then I'd had to help her choose something for Beany. But she still couldn't make up her mind on what to get for Draco.

"Come on!" I begged, "Your train leaves in one hour and you still haven't got him a gift yet."

"Well, nothing works!" she said frustrated, "What did you get him?"

"Why do you care?" I asked.

"Because," she admitted, "He likes you."

"Oh, you're not going to break down and cry now are you?"

"No," she said defiantly, "Forget it, I think I'll just pick something up for him back home."

"Finally." I said relieved.

"But, what should I get for him?" she asked for the millionth time.

"Well, what did you get for Beany?" I asked.

"He's your boyfriend, so his gift was easy." she said.

"Ugh, you aren't honestly telling me that you want to get Malfoy something you'd get your boyfriend. He broke it off with you remember? I mean if it were me I'd just get him something random. I wouldn't even think about it, if he broke up with you then his gift for you won't be something great now will it?"

"No, you're probably right. I just wanted to get him something that he'd like, you know."

"Pansy, what are you going to get him? Really? I mean, the boy's got everything!"

"Yeah, everything except me!" she said.

"He doesn't want you!" I told her again, "Just get him something....anything but make it fast! The train's almost here."

I didn't get to see what she got for him. She grabbed all her purchases and stuffed them in her trunk.
***
"I'll make sure these get back to all of you before Christmas!" she called out through the window of the train.

"Sure!" I called back, "I'll send you yours by owl later! Good luck with your parents," I added, "Merry Christmas!"
***
I walked back to the castle alone. Already new snow was falling, covering the ground like a white blanket. I enjoyed the lack of company, it was nice to not have to put up with Beany complaining about Draco or vice-versa.

Just as I reached the castle grounds, a well-aimed shower of snowballs came down on me. "Peeves!"

But it wasn't the school's resident poltergeist. Of course I wasn't happy with either of them but it was still nice that they'd teamed up for something.
---
Sorry for the short chappie, I'll post more soon!

I couldn't sleep any longer, it was now officially christmas morning. I couldn't stand to be the only one awake. And with Pansy gone that left me only one other choice in who to wake up next.

Episode 23 Christmas at Hogwarts - Part 2

"It's christmas!"

Draco groaned, "So?"

"So?" I asked incredulously, "How can you say that?" Then I went over to Beany, somehow he had managed to ignore my greeting and was still asleep. "Come on, Beany! It's Christmas!"

He turned and tried to cover his ears with his pillow, but he ran out of bed space and came crashing down on his back."What?! What?! I'm awake!"

Draco and I were laughing, we couldn't help it. Then Beany started laughing, too. It took the three of us a while to get over our hysterics. Then, finally I calmed down enough to say something. "Wow! We're definately not the only ones awake now! Come on, you two...let's go get our gifts open!"
***
"Draco, this one's yours. And, Beany here's yours. These are from Pansy."

"Parkinson got us gifts?" Beany asked, "Are you serious?"

"Pansy got us all something." I answered, "Even Crabbe and Goyle."

"What?"

"You heard me."

"So what'd she get them?" Draco asked, while he worked on opening his own complexly wrapped gift.

"They each got a scarf with their initials on it. Her mother had them made."

They both laughed.

"What did you get me?" Draco and Beany both asked at the same time. I thought it was funny, but they glared at each other in silent anger.

I handed each of them their gift. I gave Draco a new custom broom, similar to mine, only not quite as fast. And Beany got an autographed poster of his favorite quidditch team.

"How did you get this?" They both asked, and glared at each other, again.

"Well, I actually had your broom custom-made, before you went all dramatic and decided to kick me off the team. You really don't deserve it, but I didn't know of anyone else who could appreciate a well-built broom." I told Draco, "And yours, Beany, my dad knows the captain. And he works for the Department of Magical Sports so I had him get this for you." I explained. "So, do you guys like them?"

"I got you something, too." This time I really couldn't help laughing when they again spoke at the exact same time. They growled.

"So, what'd you get me?" I asked.
***
Severus was not exactly the most happy person to eat breakfast with on Christmas morning. But what else was I supposed to do? Beany and Draco were mad at each other...why they had both thought of the exact same gift was beyond me. But I was not going to be able to enjoy a good meal, while they both gave each other the evil eye.

"Merry Christmas, Sev." I said when I took my seat at the breakfast table.

He nodded. "What happened to, 'I see enough of you...' and 'But Severus'?" He asked in a teasing tone.

"Oh, you don't want to know about it."

"Try me."

"Well, you see my boyfriend..."

"You mean Malfoy."

My entire face flushed, "No," I explained slowly, "Blaise Zabini. Well anyway, he and Draco both got me the same thing for Christmas and they're arguing about who thought of it first and other baloney like that."

"So, why don't you simply give one of them back." He said as if it were obvious.

"Because, in case you missed it. Malfoy...I mean, Draco, may not be my boyfriend, but he's still my friend."

Severus shrugged. "And speaking of gifts, here's yours. It seems you can use this more than I thought you would." He handed me a small vial of golden potion...it looked...happy.

"No way! Felix Felices? Thanks, Sev, you're the best cousin ever!"

He raised an eyebrow in that annoying way of his. "Yes." He said, "I know." I couldn't believe it, he actually almost smiled. Christmas with Snape wasn't half bad. Now if only I could fix things between Beany and Draco.
***
I debated on whether or not I should use my new supply of Felix Felices. I decided against it. If I was going to do this, I would do it my way. I caught up with Draco on his way toward the Room of Requirement. "Draco!" I called, "Wait up!"

He stopped and waited for me to catch up to him. "What?" He asked, "Did you like my...or should I say, our presents?"

"You know I'll wear them both," I said, "But that's not what I wanted to talk to you about. Why do you and Beany hate each other so much? I mean, can't you two at least try to get along...you could be friends."

"Pft. I very much doubt that. Oh, hey, thanks for that...what was it?"

"StarFire 2000? No problem, it's got a bit more speed than the Nimbus, but not quite as much as the Firebolt...it's a great combination for you...I guess."

"Yeah? Well, you sure do know a lot about brooms."

"And quidditch, and Defense Against the Dark Arts, and Transfiguration, and the fact that you're trying to change the subject."

"What? I'm not..."

"You are. In case you haven't already noticed, we're standing right in front of the Room of Requirement."

"Oh, well yeah. But you already know what's in there. You know all about what I'm trying to do...remember?"

"I didn't see that much into your head...I tried to tell you, but you wouldn't listen. And then you went and just kicked me off the team for no good reason, and then we lost, and then..."

He stopped my rambling. "What?" I asked.

"Mistletoe." He said. He pointed up over us.

"No way." I said.

"You have to..." he said, "It's the rule."
***
"Is this supposed to be some kind of joke?"

"Beany!"

"Zabini, what the hell are you doing here?"

It was over. Christmas had been ruined.
---
Hey guys, sorry it took me so long to update this. But you know I kept thinking of more and more to add to it. In the end I decided, I'd leave you at a cliff hanger. *evil laugh* Haha just kidding. Again, sorry it took so long. But I hope you liked this chapter. And you all know how much I love feedback.

So close. So. So. Very. Close.

Episode 24 Why Good Friends Should Never Kiss

"Draco," I said hesistantly.

"Yeah?"

"I can't do this."

He let out a long breath. "I wish he you had more Slytherin in you," he said, pulling away just before we could kiss. "I don't know why you're hesistating. You've kissed me before. Twice."

I cleared my throat, loudly.

"Okay, fine, just once. But come on. Why won't you? What's stopping you? I know you want to. I know I do."

"It's not about what I want to do, Draco. This is about..." I tried again, "It's about B...Bea....Blaise. This isn't fair to him. If you think about it...he did beat you to me." I smiled weakly, laughing inwardly at my own lame joke.

"Well, it's not very fair to me that you say you want to be friends, and then...I kiss you and you kiss me back." he thought about something, "Why is this time any different?"

"Beany wasn't there last time." I pointed out. "Besides the only reason that I kissed you back is because...oh nevermind."

"What? What were you going to say?"

"It's stupid." I answered. Under my breath I said, "But it sure would prove I have some Slytherin in me after all..."

"Prince." he said seriously, "Why did you kiss me back that day? Were you just angry at your boyfriend?"

I had been debating whether or not to tell him the real reason. But his guess was so far off, I couldn't help laughing out loud. "Don't--be--ridiculous, Draco...I can't believe you--actually--actually think I'm--that kind of girl."

"What? Why? Please just tell me."

If I do, he'll be so mad at me. I thought to myself, "Alright then...I really wish you wouldn't make me say it, though."

"Please?" He was practically begging now.

I sighed. "Well, uh, at first, when I um...when I asked you to follow me. I kind of really just wanted to know what was bothering you...so I...but then you...I, erm, well, I maybe might have..." I knew I was just mumbling now, but I couldn't help myself. I didn't want to lose him too. I was fairly sure Beany wouldn't be too eager to kiss and make up this time around.
***
"So, what are you saying? That meant nothing to you. I don't believe this...that was just part of your Legilimency...all along, you just...you really are related to Snape." he said.

"Draco, it wasn't like that. It isn't like that, I..."

"Save it, why don't you go find your boyfriend? I'm sure he wouldn't mind your lies."

"Draco. Wait."
***
I was sure he wouldn't wait. He'd just go on his way, well I had nobody but myself to blame for it. Instead of it having been a Christmas full of gifts, I had lost the two people I actually felt something for.

I turned my back, and started walking away slowly...

"Where are you going?" he asked.

"Draco, why are you still here?"

"I know what happens when I don't let you explain yourself." he said, "So, do it. Explain."

"Well, at first I just..."

"Skip to the next part. 'so I...but then you...' What was my part in this?"

"I couldn't bring myself to do it. Your friendship was more important to me. And then you had to go and kiss me." I was just going to leave it at that, but then I spoke my thoughts out loud. "Which you do very well. But I don't think you...really needed to hear that." I added, embarassed.

"No. I did need to hear that." he said, "It means you do want me to kiss you. But then why won't you let me?"

"Because. Blaise." I said.

"Gee, there's nothing you can do about him now is there? Except maybe...gee, I don't know. Break up with him. I don't know why you don't just tell him about us and have done with it."

"Draco I can't 'tell him about us' because there is no 'us'."

"Not yet anyway. You go talk to him, I have an idea."

"Draco, please don't do anything stupid."

"Too late to stop me now!" he called over his shoulder as he ran away.
***
Blaise and I were sitting in the common room when Draco decided to grace us with his presence. I hadn't exactly had a chance to talk to him, seeing as he refused to talk. He was choosing the 'I'm ignoring you' approach.

So we were just sitting there being mutually quiet when he walked in and sat down in the growing space between the two of us.

"Zabini. Prince. How's things with you two?"

Blaise grunted. I looked away from him, and rolled my eyes at Draco. "How do you think things are?" I said. "They're sure as hell not very good are they?"

"Ooh, harsh. Hear that, Zabini? Not good. I know what will make things better."

"I highly doubt there's anything you can do, Malfoy." he said darkly.

"Oh, I think there's something," he smirked, "Something very good indeed."

And then he kissed me. Right there while Blaise and everyone in the common room watched. I just sat there, too stunned to say anything. I couldn't believe he'd just done that.

"You see, Zabini. Problem solved. Consider yourself...dumped."
---
Sorry it took me so long to update. I hadn't found time to do it. I really hope this chapter was satisfying in its content. I'd love to know what you guys thought of it. Feedback would be very nice.

Pansy,

How was Christmas with your parents? Draco, Blaise and I had a great time without you. Just kidding...well maybe not. Anyway, thanks for your thoughtful gift. I hope you enjoyed your color-change ink and bertie botts as much as I loved eating my sugar quills and chocolate frogs. I can't believe you actually thought that Draco would fall for the old love potion in the candy thing. Honestly, Pansy, not to be rude or anything but...that's sort of childish isn't it? By the way, Blaise said to tell you thanks for his...what was it again?...well that. Well, since you are coming back tommorow...I just thought it might be fair to warn you. Draco and I have a...erm...surprise for you. Please try not to over-react.

A. Prince

I read the letter to myself once more. Blaise hadn't really said anything about her...well...her gift. But I had thought it would help to put in a good word. I didn't want the letter to just be bad news. Or bad for her at least. Pansy was coming back tommorow. I hoped I had phrased it correctly. How exactly does one break the news to a friend that said friend's once boyfriend and not-so-secret obsession was now...well, with me?

Episode 25 Pansy! Calm Down!

I finished tying my carefully and strategically folded parchment to my owl, Sorrow's leg. I hoped she wouldn't bite Pansy, she and I didn't really keep in touch very often. So I said to Sorrow before she left, "Take this to Pansy, you do remember who that is right? The girl with the sort of short black hair and the pictures of Draco all over her room? Please try not to hurt her too much. I'll expect you back soon. Be careful. Now, off you go."

I realized too late that I had been talking to an owl. Not only that, but there was someone else in the owlery with us at the time. I didn't think anyone but me delivered mail this early. I guess I was wrong. I turned to see who had been listening in on my conversation with my great gray.

"Oh, it's you Potter. What are you doing here?"

"Delivering mail, Prince." He seemed thoughtful after saying my name, then he shook his head, as if whatever idea had inhabited his brain for the past 5 seconds was ridiculous.

I feigned interest, "Really?" I asked, "To who?"

He noticed my sarcasm almost immediately, which wasn't very surprising as I had made it quite obvious. "I don't see your owl anywhere." I said.

"You're clever. She just left."

"And now, if you'll excuse me, I will leave also."

I pushed my way past him, but he grabbed me just as I was about to walk through the door. "Let go of me, Potter. What the hell is wrong with you?"

"Do you know....oh, nevermind." Then he walked off before I could say anything. Gosh the guy was strange. I walked down to the Great Hall slowly, it was still a good while before breakfast would be served and I didn't want to get there insanely early.
***
I didn't get to brekfast early for two reasons. Their names were Draco Malfoy and Blaise Zabini. The latter bumped into me on the way there. At first I did not even bother to look up. What was I going to say to him? After Draco's little stunt at the common room last night, it was pretty clear that things between us were o-v-e-r.

"Hey, umm, Prince, do you have a minute?"

"I've, erm, got a lot of minutes actually." I signaled for him to go ahead and talk first since I wasn't really up to putting in the first word this time.

"Well," he cleared his throat, "I just, you know, thought we should, uh, talk."

"Yeah? What about?" Somehow I seemed to be finding it easier to talk to him than he was. It was a little hard to understand what he said next as he was basically mumbling incoherently.

"This...well...we...erm, I mean....I think that, well, uh...you...I...friends?"

"Sorry, what? All I got was 'friends'."

He blushed, which I at any other given time I would have found funny. But now it was somewhere between slightly embarrassing and unbelievably annoying. "Blaise? Earth to Zabini...are you still with us?"

"Oh, er, sorry. What I meant was..." he took a deep breath, "do you think, maybe, you and me, could still I don't know...be friends?"

"Umm, sure. Why didn't you just say that in the first place. I thought you wanted to talk about well," This time I blushed, "about what happened last night, I know that probably wasn't exactly the best way to break it to you."

"You mean the...well, you know what, just forget it. Friends?"

"Yeah, sure...friends."

What happened next was a little awkward. We were going to hug, but then we stopped, then we were going to shake hands, but that would have just been even weirder than the hug. So, we just sort of ended up doing a very odd hug. We had hardly ever hugged at all when we were dating, so this was a first.

"See you at breakfast." he said.

"Okay, see you."
***
Almost as soon as Blaise left, Draco fell into step beside me. Now we were standing not two yards from the Great Hall together, it reminded me of the first time we had done that. It had been back when we'd both been with other people. When we weren't really very close friends yet.

"Hey," I said, "remember when you practically dragged me here after quddictch practice?"

He laughed, "Yeah, I remember. But this time I didn't have to drag you, because now I can do this." he answered.

"Do what?" I almost asked, but before I had a chance to, he kissed me. And this time, I didn't hold back.

"Wow." he said, "What was that?"

"That," I answered easily, "is how I would have kissed you under the mistletoe if I had let myself."

"I should stand under that stuff more often then."

"Shut up!" I said. "Come on, let's go eat."
***
After breakfast, we all went outside together. Blaise, Draco, and I. We all actually walked together. We found a nice spot under a big oak tree and sat down. I was, of course, sitting in between the two of them. Blaise might want to be friends with me, but something told me that Draco wasn't part of the deal.

As was usually the case when the three of us were anywhere together, I had to start the conversation. "So," I said casually, "Pansy comes back tomorrow."

"Help me find a container for my joy." Draco replied, "Oh, wait, I don't think we could find one that small."

"Oh come on, don't you like her even a little tiny itsy bitty bit?"

They both looked at me quizzically, "Who does?" they asked.

"Uh," I thought, "I don't know, but somebody must. Her parents?"

"Prince, in what universe does being dragged home for Christmas signify 'love'? Face it. The Parkinsons probably wanted her home just so that they could have something to complain about."

"Don't call Pansy a thing." I said sarcastically, "It's quite rude."

Then we all busted up laughing. We were still laughing when we finally got to the common room. "Well, good night, remember, we're meeting her at Honeydukes tomorrow morning."

"Don't worry, we'll make sure to forget."
***
Sorrow was waiting for me when I got into my dormitory. "Hey, there" I said, "I see Pansy managed to send you back without much trouble." I carefully untied the letter from her leg and unrolled it.

Prince!
Your stupid owl bit me! Honestly couldn't you have just borrowed Draco's? Gah.

I stopped reading for a short laughing fit. Sorrow had bit Pansy, ha! Anyway, I don't know why she thought Draco's owl would have treated her much differently. I continued reading.

He didn't go for it? How dare you call me childish? It probably didn't work because you told him what I had done. Whatever. Anyway, what sort of surprise do you mean? And did Zabini really like his gift or were you just being stupid when you wrote that? Nevermind, I don't care. I hope it's a good surprise. Give Draco my love and affection.
Pansy P.
***
"Pansy sends her love." I said with as serious a face as I could muster the next morning on our way down to Hogsmeade to meet Pansy.

"Her what?" Draco asked, acting like it was the biggest shock he had ever recieved. "Please tell me that she included chocolate with that. The ones she gave me last time were too full of love for me to actually eat."

"No, sorry, just love and affection."

"More like infection." Blaise said.

We laughed all the way there and didn't stop laughing until we heard the Hogwarts Express pull into the station. "She's baaaack!" I said ominously. That set us to laughing again. After a while I stopped to ask Draco, "How do you think we should break it to her?"

"Leave that to me."
***
"Pansy! Calm down! You're making a scene. Put the damn wand down, or you're going to get us both in trouble."

"You...you...ugh...I'm going to...kill you Prince!"

"Breathe, Parkinson." Blaise said, "It's not the end of the world."

I couldn't believe that Draco had managed to pull the same trick twice.
---
Well sorry it took me so long to update. Hope you liked it, feedback would make my day. Toodles.

Draco and I were both early risers. I looked at the clock. 8:30, I had been awake for two hours. Why was I still in bed? I was pretty sure that he was already up. He might have even already left for breakfast. I decided to go and see.

Episode 26 Nicknames are Forever

I got up slowly, Pansy was still asleep and after yesterday's scene at Honeydukes, I didn't want to risk a full-on attack. I opened the door as quietly as possible and I was about to walk out when...

"Where are you going?"

I stopped and turned around. "Where do I always go in the morning?" I answered.

She gave me a puzzled and slightly suspicious look.

"Breakfast. Duh."

"Oh. I thought you were going to go to the boys dormitories, to see...D-Dr-Dra-"

"His name is Draco. And yes, now that you mention it, I was actually thinking of heading over there."

"Y-Yes-Yesterday. What was that about?"

"I don't know what you mean," I closed the door and went to sit on my four-poster. "What was what about?"

"You. H-he he k-ki-kissed you."

"Yeah, so?" I asked, "I'm still not seeing your point." I yawned, suddenly very interested in the ceiling.

"The point? The point is, Prince, that he had no reason to do that."

"Yeah...no. I'm still not getting why this has anything to do with you. I mean, he broke it off with you didn't he? So then, why do you care?"

"I don't!"

"Yeah, right. I suppose that's why you went all 'I'll kill you Prince!' on me yesterday, huh? Because you didn't care. Oh I'm so sure."

"You know what Prince..."

"No, what?" I said sarcastically, "Do tell."

"You can have him."

"Hahahahahahahahahahaha....I'm so glad I have your permission. Oh and you wanna know why he broke up with you?"

She glared menacingly, but still looked curious...and just slightly doubtful.

"He kissed me. Even while you two were dating. Isn't that sad?"

I left before she could reply.
***
At breakfast, Pansy was seething. I smiled smugly to myself. Draco looked at me watching Pansy. He put two and two togther.

"Whoa! What did you say to her?" He asked.

"Oh, nothing special." I answered. "Don't worry, it's got nothing to do with you." I laughed inwardly...it had everything to do with him.

"You never cease to amaze me." He shook his head.

"Well, I am in Slytherin." I said. "And, I did learn from the best."

"Why thank you."

"Who are you thanking, Malfoy?" Asked Blaise, walking up to us. Apparently he'd just gotten out of bed.

"Good morning to you too, Beany." I said.

They were both quiet. Had I said something? Oh, right. I wasn't allowed to call him that anymore. "Sorry," I said, " 'Blaise' is sort of hard to get used to. And I don't want to call you 'Zabini'. You don't mind? Do you?"

He thought about it. "Nah. It's cool."

And then we went back to our conversation. Just like that.

"I am flattered that you think I am capable of such....what's the word?"

"Great kissing?" I asked, with a hint at a joke. I didn't think he'd actually do it.

"Draco." I said, "Could you try not to do that?"

"What?" he asked, "I thought you liked it."

"Well, I don't think people are used to it yet, you know." I said, looking pointedly in Beany's direction. "Give him time. He may not look it, but this can't be very comfortable for him."

"I hate it when you make sense. But why shouldn't I? My presence never stopped him."

"No offense, but, you were dating that." I pointed at Pansy.

"Oh....right. So when can I kiss you?"

"When you're done eating breakfast."
***
We were walking down the halls. He stopped when we got to the Room of Requirement.

"Draco. What are we doing here?"

"I want to show you something," he said, "just wait."

"Incidentally, how are you doing with the Vanishing Cabinet?"

"Oh, I forgot, you know about that already. It's almost finished."

"That's a good thing...right?"

"Sure, I guess."

"Why do you look so...I don't know, like it's not a good thing."

"Because," he said, "If this works, I have to...I have to...go."

"What do you mean you have to go?" I asked.

"No one stops being a Death Eater, Princess, no one."

"What did you call me?"

"Oh, well, your last name's Prince, and you're a girl..."

"How observant of you, go on."

"I don't know, you gave Zabini a nickname. So now I'm giving you one. Don't you like it?"

"Sure, I guess." I said, repeating what he'd said earlier, "That's definately a good thing."

We kissed.

No one stops being a Death Eater...

I'd worry about that later, for now, I was too happy.
---
Update! *Yay!* It's a little short, but, I hope you liked it. Sorry it took me so long. Feedback would be great.

I hadn't expected Pansy to wake up so early--earlier than me--the next morning, but sure enough, there she was; awake and watching me. She didn't even blink. It was starting to freak me out. I couldn't try to sleep through that much longer. I opened my eyes.

Episode 27 Truth and Feelings

"What?!" I yelled at her, "Pansy, you're burning a hole in my face! What? Why are you staring at me." She didn't seem to have heard me. She was frozen. I waved my hand in her face, "Anyone home? Earth to Pansy! Come in Parkinson!" She blinked twice, "Oh hello! Welcome back to reality." I said in a mock-welcoming voice, "So, you mind telling me what the hell your problem is?"

"I couldn't sleep." She said, stifling a yawn. Right. I thought to myself, because that explains everything.

I pretended to care, "How come?" I asked, while I busied myself getting dressed. "Every other normal, intelligent life-form can do it. It's simple, you just close your eyes and BAM you're in dreamland. Yes! It's that easy!" Okay, so maybe I wasn't the best at pretending to be a good friend who actually gave a hoot about Pansy, but so what? I was on her bad side anyway, might as well enjoy it.

"Ha. Ha." She replied, the effect slightly ruined by her obvious lack of sleep. I was about to mention this interesting tidbit, "Save it Prince!"

"What?" I asked, the picture of innocence. "I didn't say anything!" Yet.

"Whatever. I'm not in the mood for you right now. I am really tired and I haven't sl--"

"Hey, it's not my fault you are such a freak." I said, "Now, if you don't mind I think I'm just going to go n--"

She cut me off, "Not so fast!" she said, but the yawn made it sound more like, 'Noooooooot so f-fa-faaaaaaast...'

"What?"

"I said, not so fast! Where the hell do you think you're going? I'm not done with you!" Not done with me? What in the name of Salazar Slytherin was she talking about? Of course I ignored her. "Come back here!"

"And if I don't?" I glared at her, "It's not like you can 's-stooooooooooooooop' me." I imitated her yawn in an overexaggerated way. But I walked back to my four-poster and sat down anyway. I didn't want to mess with Pansy too much. Especially not in her sleep-deprived state.

She crossed her arms over her chest, never a good sign, "Prince, I think it's time for us to talk seriously about you and D-Dr-Draaaaaaaaaco." She said, sounding tired.

"Huh? Who's 'Draaaaaaaaaco'?" I asked, trying hard to keep a straight face.

She growled at me, no joke, she really did, "I think," she said through her teeth, "that this would be a hell-of-a-lot easier if you just shut up!"

"Whoa," I held my hands out in front of me, "I've never seen the angry side of you before, I'm sort of scared now."

She glared, looking dangerously close to growling at me again, I kept my hands out peaceably...yeah, sure..."Sor-ry," I stretched the word out sarcastically in that endearing way I have. "You were saying?" I asked sweetly.

"Right." She took a deep breath and tried not to yawn. She rubbed her temples, "As I was saying,"

"Before I interrupted," I cut her off again, "Oh. My bad. You want to talk." I waited for a comeback. "So...Talk."
***
Pansy talked waaaaaaaay too much. I could hardly get one word in, which on any given day is basically impossible. And that's saying something. I caught pharses like, "Why would he...You? Of all the..." and "How could you...thought we were," she hesistated here, "Friends." Oh, and my personal favorite, "You don't deserve him." I nodded when it seemed necessary--I gave up trying to talk--and I tried to look interested.

When she finally stopped to yawn again, I spoke. "Yeah I only got about half of a tenth of whatever you just said. The rest," I pointed to my ears, "in one, out the other."

She didn't have an answer, it looked like she was done venting. "Well, if you're all finished with me," I smirked, "I'm going to go and enjoy the rest of my day. Maybe you should take a nap."
***
"Sorry I'm late, Pansy wanted to--Where's Draco?" I asked Beany, who was already awake and dressed, How long did Pansy talk? I wondered.

"He, uh," he cleared his throat, "got tired of waiting for you." Beany answered, "You know Malfoy, patience isn't really his style."

"So, he left?"

Beany nodded.

"Oh," I avoided making direct eye contanct, which wasn't really me, hmmm, "I guess I'll go look for him." I said, already starting to head toward the door.

"Wait." He said, "Stay. Let's talk about something. What's your rush, he's not going anywhere."

I hesitated then sighed, "Why not?" I went back to Draco's four-poster and sat down. "So, what do you want to talk about?"
***
"We're still friends aren't we?" he asked slowly, I could hear the tinge of jealousy in his tone.

"Are we?" I spoke my thoughts out loud.

"Sure." He said, "Although, you wouldn't know it to look at us. I mean we hardly spend any time alone with each other. Any time I do get with you, he's there."

I fell back, resting my head on Draco's pillow. First Pansy, now you. I thought, geez, has everybody been keeping their feelings a secret? Out loud I said, "Beany, are you jealous?" The teasing came naturally, all part of being a Slytherin...feelings-in-a-box, mind-on-my-sleeve, that sort of thing.

After a three-second pause, he answered, "Yes, I am."

Wait. What? "You are?" I sat up, no trace of sarcasm in my tone this time.

"Of course I am, 'Princess'. You know, I thought it would be, I don't know, easier. But he doesn't play fair. I wish we could just...nevermind. He makes everything so hard."

"Hang on," I said, "He told you about that?"

"Is it so hard to believe?"

I shrugged, "I--guess not," I said, but still...

Beany laughed without humor, "You know Malfoy," he repeated.

I nodded. He was right, I did know 'Malfoy' and it was his nature to do things like that. He liked--no, loved--to make people jealous of him. Especially if Beany was the people.
***
It was a long time before he spoke again, "Why do you wear that?" he asked.

Unconciously I reached for the gold locket, "What, this?" I untangled the thin gold chain from the identical silver one...the one from Draco. "You gave it to me." I said quietly.

"Yeah, but...you don't have to."

I shrugged again, "I want to." I said, "It was a Christmas present from...a friend. A very good friend." I added.

He blushed, it looked like he wanted to say something else, but just then the door opened. We looked up to see who it was.

"Oh, there you are." Draco said, "I've been looking everywhere for you, I thought you were at the Roo--" he noticed Beany, "Zabini."

"Morning Malfoy." Beany said icily.

"Pansy wanted to talk to me," I told Draco, "by the time I got over here, you were gone. Beany said you'd left and--"

"So, what are you still doing he--"

I cut him off, "Do you want to go for a broom ride?" I pushed him out of the room before he could answer.

"See you later, Beany." I called over my shoulder on the way out, "And...thanks."
***
"I'm guessing you don't really want to go for a broom ride." We were out on the qudditch pitch.

"What makes you say that?" I asked distractedly.

"Oh, I don't know. The lack of brooms gives it away. Don't you think?"

"Is that it? Psh." I took out my wand, "A problem easily fixable. Accio FireNimbus."

"Well, now you have one. That's progress."

I rolled my eyes, "Accio StarFire." Draco's new broom zoomed toward us. He caught it. "Happy?" I asked.

"How do you know I didn't want my other broom?"

"Because." I said. "This one is much faster."

"Oh really?" He came closer.

I nodded. Sensing what was coming next, I took off quickly. "You have to catch me first!" I yelled down.
---
And that's the next chapter. I know it took me a while to post, but I really hope you liked it. Don't forget, I love getting feedback.

Yesterday had been the last day of the holidays. The break was over.

Episode 28 Back to School

Normally I was an early riser, but this being the first day back to class...I wanted to change it up a little bit. Pansy was actually already gone when I at last decided to get out of bed. It must be later than I thought. I looked at the clock, 8:45. Wow, Pansy was up early today. I dragged myself out of bed and slipped on a clean set of school robes. I knew it was too late for Draco to still be there, and since Beany would still probably be asleep, I decided to head to the Great Hall for breakfast.

I was surprised to find that it hadn't been just Pansy who had gotten up earlier than usual, Beany was already sitting at the Slytherin table chewing on a piece of toast. Draco wasn't eating breakfast, he wasn't even there. Talk about role-reversal. I had an idea about where he was. In fact I was almost positive he was in the Room of Requirement.

I took a seat next to Beany and noticed Pansy for the first time, "Someone got up on the wrong side of the bed this morning." I said.

She looked at me absently, not seeming to register what I had just said. She nodded and yawned. "Aren't you in a chatty mood?" I teased. She wasn't being very responsive, so bothering her wasn't as fun as it should have been. So I talked to Beany instead, "What's her problem?"

He shrugged, "Don't know. Hey, where's your b--Malfoy?" he asked, rephrasing the question halfway through.

"Don't know." I answered, taking a sip of my pumkin juice. "So. Since Draco seems to have gone missing..." I was interrupted by the sudden disappearance of my breakfast. "Gah, I knew I should have gotten up earlier." I cursed my laziness. I felt someone watching me, "What?!?" I asked, turning to see who it was.

"I, um, we've got to get to class." said Beany, sounding suprised.

"Oh, yeah. Sorry." I picked up my bag and stood up. Beany, Pansy, and I walked to class together. Well Pansy sort of dragged along behind us. It seemed oddly ironic to me that Beany and I were walking together without Draco.
***
"What?" Beany was looking at me again.

"What were you going to say at breakfast?" he asked, "About Malfoy..."

"Oh," I laughed, "I don't know, I guess it just seems like...nevermind."

"Like what?"

Students were starting to file into the classroom. I took a seat at my usual table in the center of the room.

"Well, remember how yesterday you said you and I never got any one-on-one friend time? Well, now...we do. Sit down," I added, noticing him hovering awkardly behind me.

"Are you sure? You could just sit with Parkinson."

"Beany, it's fine. Just sit down, or I'll make you sit," I said pulling out my wand. He looked like he doubted the threat, I glared at him. He sat. "Besides, between you and me I don't think Pansy'd make for pleasant company right now."
***
Draco wasn't at our next class either. What was keeping him? Beany and I sat together until lunch time. We bumped into Draco on the way there. "Hey," I said, "Where have you been?"

"Oh, I was...er, busy;" he answered. "Zabini."

"Malfoy."

"I'll take it from here."

They glared at each other until I interrupted, "Hello! I'm not getting any less hungry here. You two can finish the staring contest later. Let's go! Or I'll walk myself and you two can walk together."

Neither of them seemed to like that idea. Draco put his arm around my waist quickly. "Come on," he said. He walked quickly, we left Beany behind pretty fast.

"Now, tell me where you really were."

"What were you doing with Zabini anyway?"

"Stop trying to change the subject. Why were you gone so long?"

"I asked first." he said immaturely.

"Oh grow up. We weren't doing anything."

"That's what I like to hear."

I rolled my eyes, "You're so jealous."
***
[!] As if to prove this, Draco made sure that I was sitting safely between him and Pansy. It was obvious that he didn't want me to spend any more time with Beany than I already had.

"Okay, seriously now, tell me what you were doing." I demanded of him after the food appeared.

"Not here," he said, "maybe later."

We sat mostly in silence until Pansy finally spoke, "Where have you been?" she asked Draco.

"I don't see why it matters to you." he answered.

She blushed and looked back down at her plate. Draco and Beany seemed intent on finishing their staring contest. It looked as if they were shooting silent curses at each other through the glares. If looks could kill... I thought to myself.

"Let's go." Draco said suddenly, bringing me out of my thoughts. "We've still got time before our next class."

"Okay."
***
Once we were out of the Great Hall, he pulled me to him and we kissed for a long time. "I missed you." he said.

"Draco, are you ever going to tell me what took you so long, you're usually back by History of Magic. Because it's the easiest to sneak into late. I didn't see you. I was worried."

He smirked in his loveable way, "Really? I should disappear more often then."

"How are you doing with the Vanishing Cabinet?"

"I'm...uh...it's coming along, I guess."

"Draco, if you don't want to talk about it, just say so. I don't really care about that all that much anyway. I just care about you."

"Good. Then what do you say we ditch the rest of classes and you come help me?"

"Hmmm..." I briefly considered being a good student, but then I wouldn't be a Slytherin, would I? What would I miss? Charms, Transfiguration, DADA (I was fairly sure Sev wouldn't mind one absence. He knew I was good at defensive...and offensive...magic, so I was covered there). Who would really care if I ditched one afternoon? I would rather spend it with Draco anyway. "I think I could do that." I finally answered. Who cared about being a good student when someone like Draco Malfoy was around?
***
"So, what are we going to do?" I wondered aloud. "You can't really expect me to believe that you'd let me know more about what you're doing than I figured out on my own."

"Of course not. That would make you stupid. Which is something I know you aren't...I mean how many other sixth year Slytherin girls would be clever enough to use Legilimancy on a Malfoy?"

"Not many." I agreed, "Personally, I think that they would be to busy focusing on you to care much for what was going on inside your head."

"Yeah, you're probably right. I mean I am pretty irrisistable aren't I?"

"Sure." I laughed, "Of course you are."

"Enough jokes. Come on, let's get rid of your bag, then we can go have some fun."

"And by that you mean?"
***
I found out pretty soon that Draco's definition of the word was indeed fun. We spent a lot of time avoiding Peeves the poltergeist and messing with Filch. Then we retreated to the seventh floor. We were standing in front of what seemed to be a wall.

"Well, what room are we standing in front of? You decide."

I thought about it for a while. "I don't know," I said, "anywhere with you would be great."

"I think I have an idea then."

After a few minutes a door appeared. He pushed it open. The room was...empty. Just as it had been when Draco had first kissed me. That time I hadn't kissed him back, I had just stood there shocked that he would do something like that.

"I see you remember it." he observed.

I nodded, "That's not all I remember." I said. "You know what the strange thing is...this is the same place where I first realized I..." I trailed off, aware for the first time of what I was saying. What I had been about to reveal was...that this was the place I had first realized that I really cared about Draco Malfoy.
---
[!] Hey! To those who had already read this update. I added more to it, so I guess you could consider this a sort of added bonus. So I've re-updated, I suppose you could say. Sorry for any inconvenience. Comments, suggestions, etc. as always are much appreciated.

Draco had wanted to ditch again, but I wasn't sure if I wanted to face 'severe' consequences from Severus for skipping his class (pun intended). And I didn't want to miss out on anything...important.

Episode 29 All Sorts of Trouble

I had, through some miracle called jealousy, convinced Draco to actually attend class today...every class. All I'd had to do was mention Beany and he pretty much had the idea himself.

During Potions, Slughorn was too focused on Potter to notice much of anything that the Slytherin table did. So, Draco and I used that class--and just about all the morning classes...besides Herbology, where Sprout seemed to actually be aware of our presence (or lack thereof)--to talk.

When the time came for Transfiguration, we ran into a tight spot. "Mr. Malfoy, Miss Prince may I see you after class?"

"Erm, sure Professor." I said, giving Draco a knowing look. As soon as she had gone off, we had started laughing...not too loudly. McGonagall looked over at us, and we couldn't help laughing some more. We were in big trouble and we both knew it, yet somehow, we found this funny.
***
"Miss Prince, I would expect this sort of behavior from Mr. Malfoy, but you..."

"What sort of behavior would that be, exactly? Professor." Draco challenged.

McGonagall looked like she wanted nothing more than to slap him, but she kept her cool somehow, "I am quite sure you know, Malfoy. Fifty points from Slytherin and..." please don't say it., I begged silently. "Detention. With Professor Snape. Tonight. I sincerely hope that..."

But I wasn't listening anymore. Detention with Sev? Ha! That I could get out of. Draco was still being Draco and arguing with McGonagall, but I cut him off, "Draco, come on! We don't want to be late for Charms, Flitwick might give us detention, too."

"Smart thinking, Miss Prince. I hope that Mr. Malfoy does not become a bad influence for you. You may go now."

I rolled my eyes at that. Draco a bad influence...for me? Was she kidding? If anything, I was the one rubbing off on him.
***
We survived the rest of the day relatively unscathed; or at least, with no extra detentions. After DADA, I told Draco to wait for me while I handled getting out of detention. I figured it would be easier without him in the room.

"Umm, Sev? Are you busy?" I started out sweetly, I figured that appealing to him as a relative would be far easier than trying to talk to him as my 'professor'.

"This wouldn't by chance have anything to do with you receiving detention? Annie?" He said with a smirk.

"Oh...man, I was hoping you wouldn't find out about that until I..." I mumbled to myself. It would be more difficult to manuever around him now. Difficult, but do-able. For such a talented liar as myself. After all, I was in Slytherin.

I had an answer ready after an almost non-existent five second hesitation. "Some. Well, mostly...it's just that, Draco and I were going to work on...something, and I was hoping maybe you could, uh, postpone the detention." I thought I sounded pretty convincing, personally. Was Snape convinced?

Yes! "Very well, I am not going to ask what exactly you are...working on; however, there is one thing..."

Hey, anything that gets me out of detention, "What?"
***
"Am I good or what?" I asked Draco when I left Sev's office.

"You did it?"

"Shoot yeah, I did it. We don't have to do detention at all. But McGonagall will never know."

"You are amazing, princess."

"And don't you forget it!"
***
This time I was actually going to get to help with the Vanishing Cabinet. When the door appeared I had a sense of almost excitement. I couldn't wait to find out what Draco was planning to do. For although I was not totally devoted to the Dark Arts, they still fascinated me. Besides, a Vanishing Cabinet was a rare and precious sight.

Before now, I had only seen it in a blur of thought that had been crossing Draco's mind that day. It was weird but the thought that I had actually read Draco Malfoy's mind gave me some sort of pride.

I was not expecting the sight that met my eyes when the door opened. The room was a mess of clutter. Books, wands, half-empty bottles of potions I was sure were forbidden; just about anything anyone would want to hide seemed to be in this room. The Cabinet itself was toward the back, off to the side of it was a bust of an indistinguishible man with a wig and a battered tiara on its ugly head. And inside of the Cabinet was what looked like a brand new Potions book. Who would want to hide that? And why? I wondered.

But Draco got my attention before I had time to wonder any more about that. "This is it." he said. "There's not a lot of room in here. Do you want to get that out of there?" He added pointing at the book.

"Sure." I grabbed the book and was shocked to find that although it appeared new on the outside, the pages themselves were quite battered...and they had notes scribbled all over them. The handwriting seemed familiar, but I couldn't quite figure out whose book this was...had been. Dismissing it from my mind, I set it on the table beside the ugly tiaraed...man, and resumed helping Draco.
***
We had been working for what felt like hours when we heard a noise just outside the room. We stopped to listen. By the sound of it, there was a person standing outside, apparently trying to get in.

"Go and see who it is." Draco said, "I have my suspicions...Don't worry, he'll never figure it out." he said noticing my expression.
***
Just as Draco had suspected it was a boy...Potter to be precise. Only he was 'invisible'. "What are you doing here?" I asked the air.

He was silent, obviously believing that he could not have been discovered. Then he answered, "Prince. How did you know it was..."

"Shut up, Potter. Don't be so stupid. What are you doing here?" I asked again.

"What are you and Malfoy doing here?"

"What are you talking about? Are you delusional? You and I are the only ones here."

"I know he's in there. But what is he doing? I deserve to know, I'm the Chosen One. Number one."

"You smell like number two."

"I like number twoooo." He responded in a high squeaky voice that was so unlike him that I just had to laugh.

"Go to bed Potter, you sound like you could use a nap."
---
Hey, guys, I know, I know. It's been almost forever since I last posted an update. But, school just got started so I am still trying to get into the swing of things. (i.e. balancing VTM time and Homework time...it hasn't been easy). Anyway, here's the next chappie! I hope you guys liked it. I still love getting feedback!

Ohmigosh! I can't believe how long it has been since I last posted a Draco/me adventure! Well, school has been taking it's toll on my schedule and consequently of course on my VTM time. Sorry to keep you guys waiting... I will try my very best to come up with a new chappie soon.

NOTE: For old and loyal readers, I have decided to change "my" (meaning my character's) name to Anne, it makes more sense with Prince -- Anne Prince-- and has a lot more "endearing" potential. Hope this does not confuse you...if you're a new reader that's reading this, disregard this, but by all means don't "disregard" to leave feedy.

Hope to post soon!
Love to read new comments,
-Karina

Harry Potter was a weirdo by any Slytherin’s definition. What had happened last night, though, had been beyond weird. Of course he always said things that made sense to only himself and anyone pathetic enough to want to be friends with him. Like that time in the owlery; what had that been about? What had even made him talk to me? As a rule, Slytherins and Gryffindors didn’t get along. We tried not to talk to each other, unless it was to say something insulting…or we were dueling. So, what had Potter been doing at the Room of Requirement? Had he been trying to get in? The way he had acted didn’t sound like him, strange as he was. If it hadn't been Potter, then who?

Episode 30 Snape's Request

We were sitting in the common room, talking about why Potter had been on the seventh floor corridor last night. “Draco, are you sure Potter doesn’t know about, you know…about what you’re doing?”

“How could he? Stop worrying, princess. Besides from what I could hear, he wasn’t himself. The way he was acting was too weird, even for him.”

“What was he doing up there anyway? What possible reason could he have to be snooping around so late? Well, besides the obvious fact that he can’t stand to not get attention, of course.”

He shrugged, smirking. “Just drop it; he knows nothing of consequence. We’re not even sure it was him anyway.”

I was going to give it up, but something he said caught my attention, “So, he does know something? What does he know?”

“Like I said, he knows nothing of consequence. It doesn’t matter, let him have his suspicions. He doesn’t know about…what I have to do.”

“Fine,” I said, “I’m sure we’ll figure out who was up there, if it wasn’t Potter, later.”

“Thank you. Now, sit down. Your pacing, although attractive, is making me nervous.”

I grinned at the compliment, but I refused to sit. “I can’t sit down. I’m too worked up.”

“Then…let’s go somewhere.”

“Alright,” I exhaled.
***
We walked out of the common room, into the dungeons. I liked it here. I was glad I had been sorted into Slytherin. I had made friends in this house…well, I wouldn’t call Pansy a friend, but the point was I had met some interesting people. We walked along the dimly-lit, cold dungeon corridor; Draco had his arm around me, possessively, very like him. But, I couldn’t help wondering, “Where are we going?”

“We aren’t going anywhere; we’re just…going.”

That makes sense…yeah, about as much sense as Potter being at the Room of Requirement last night. Why couldn’t I stop thinking about that? I know, because it was not right. Why was Draco being so nonchalant about it? What did Potter know that was apparently so unimportant? My mind was full of questions. I was so distracted that I almost didn’t notice we had stopped.

“Why are we stopping?” I asked, coming out of my thoughts.

“Let’s talk.”

Draco wanted to talk? “What do you want to talk about?”

“Why are you so interested in what I am doing?” This was an odd question. I thought that the answer was obvious, but now that I thought about it, I realized that, to him, it probably wasn’t. I tried to think of an answer that would satisfy him, without ruining our new-found closeness. It took more time than I thought it would.

“Annie,” Draco started, “I--if you can’t tell me…”

“Draco, I just want to help. You’re going through a lot…I just care about you and I want to help with what you’re doing. But you--you don’t trust me. You won’t tell me what you’re doing. That’s what’s killing me. Being a Slytherin, you should understand that curiosity makes me want to know what you’re doing. That’s why I’m so interested in it. I want to…be a part of it.”

“You want to be a Death Eater? That’s crazy. You don’t know what he would do--”

I cut him off, “No. Draco, stop. I don’t want to be a Death Eater, don’t worry about that. I just want to help you, because…well, I don’t know why. I find what you’re doing…exciting. I have always been fascinated by the Dark Arts and although I don’t know why you are fixing that Vanishing Cabinet, I want to work on it with you. I don’t really care what else you’re doing. You don’t have to tell me…if you don’t want to.”

He was quiet for a long time. He was processing everything I had said, not surprising since I had said a lot. I had found it hard to stop. Now, I was just waiting for him to say something. I willed him to speak; it was torture, not knowing what he was thinking, and I wasn’t going to take a risk and try reading his mind again. That would end badly for both of us…but mostly for me.

Finally he spoke, “So…let me get this straight, you want to help me. You don’t know why, and you don’t know what you’re getting into. You just want to be a part of the…of what I’m doing?”

I thought for a second, “Yes, that sounds about right.”

“I don’t know.”

“Don’t you trust me?”

He gave me a look that clearly showed he could not answer that question without bringing up certain things that I had done to make him not trust me. I admired his effort at trying to avoid an argument; we both enjoyed arguing. And being right.
***
The talk we’d had didn’t answer the question of what Potter had been doing at the room last night, but it did serve as a small distraction from it. Not for long, though. On our way back to the common room, we passed Severus’s office; he saw us go by.

“Anne,” I heard him say. What does he want now? I thought. To Draco I said, “It looks like you weren’t the only one who wanted to talk to me today. Why don’t you go ahead; I’ll see what Snape wants.”

“I don’t know,” he said, “are you sure?”

“Draco.” This was another thing I didn’t like about him, I couldn’t control him very easily. We were too much alike. I stared straight into his eyes with a look that said clearly, ‘Don’t make me do something I’ll regret later.’ He stared back fiercely as if to say, ‘Prove it.’ Neither of us seemed likely to give up anytime soon, until our silent contest of will was interrupted.

“Malfoy! I need to speak with Prince; don’t you have somewhere else you need to be?” Severus sneered.

Draco glared at him, “Snape,” he said, “as a matter of fact, I do have somewhere else to be…away from you.” He turned to me, “I’ll see you later,” he said. Then he turned and left. I watched him go until he turned in the direction of our common room, and then disappeared.
***
“Honestly, Sev; you’re such a pain sometimes.” I made myself comfortable on a chair and crossed my arms over my chest. We had gone into his office as soon as Draco was out of sight. “What do you want?”

He ignored my tone, “I’m sure you haven’t forgotten our deal?” What deal? What was he talking about? “I see you have forgotten. Interesting.”

“I didn’t forget,” I lied; I tried to remember what exactly he was talking about. Oh yeah, detention, last night, he had said Draco and I could skip out of detention if I… “Remind me again what I was supposed to do?”

“If you remembered you wouldn’t need to be reminded.” He stated superiorly, with that annoying tone of his…sarcastic, like mine. It reminded me that we were related, I hated it.

“Just tell me.” I wasn’t in the mood for jokes; I was still trying to remember what he had said last night. All I remembered was that it had something to do with…oh, no.

“By the look on your face, I am sure that you already know. But, to spare myself from hearing any more of your pointless complaints, I will tell you…again. What I want you to do is simple, I want you to read Malfoy’s mind. He seems to trust you…it should be easy, especially with your natural talent and everything I have taught you.”

“But, why are you so interested in what Draco is doing?” I repeated Draco’s question; the same words that he had asked me before, sitting in that empty classroom on the fourth floor. I had been able to answer it for Draco, but I hadn’t really learned very much. I was curious to hear what Severus would tell me.

He smirked, “I am not going to tell you. My interest in it is irrelevant, and frankly, none of your business.”

“Then I won’t do it!” Two could play this game.

“Don’t pretend you care about the boy. If you refuse to do it, I will give you detention for the rest of the year.”

“I don’t care!” Apparently, he could play this game better. His comment about pretending to care about Draco had really hurt, but I wasn’t going to let him know it. After all, that would be all he would need to use against me later.

“I will also let Professor McGonagall know that you skipped out on your detention last night; it’s your word against mine. I know you care about your reputation as a student, it is not wise to pretend otherwise.” Man, he was good. Blackmail, like sarcasm was yet another quality Severus and I had in common.

“Fine!” I said, “I’ll try.” A vague answer, without actually promising anything was the last card I had left. What was I going to do? I couldn’t just spy on Draco…that was what Sev wanted, he wanted me to find out what Draco was doing; because Draco trusted me. What Snape didn’t know was that I had already tried reading Draco’s mind before, and…he didn’t trust me.
***
I went back to the common room thinking about what Snape wanted me to do. I arrived at the door, and waited outside trying to clear my head. I tried to remember the password, what was it…oh yeah… “Salazar.” The door opened and I went inside. I couldn’t see Draco anywhere, so I went to find a seat somewhere. The common room was fairly empty since, it was still pretty early. More people would probably start coming in later in the afternoon.

I decided to try to do some homework. I had a couple of essays to write and some reading to do, but not much else. I opened my Potions book and started reading. I was well into it when I heard someone come in. Two people actually, Crabbe and Goyle it sounded like. I hadn’t seen those two in some time. I wondered where they had been. Probably in detention; it wouldn’t surprise me.

I closed my book; they were headed in my direction. “What do you two want?” I asked, “I don’t know where Draco is.”

“We’re not lookin’ for Malfoy,” said Crabbe, “we just wanted to ask you if you liked our joke, Prince.”

“What joke, what are you going on about?”

“Last night,” he replied, acting as though I needed to have everything explained to me.

“Last night? I didn’t see either of you last night.”

“Yeah you did, you laughed.” The only thing I had laughed at last night was how stupid Potter had been act--“Wait, last night, it wasn’t Potter. It was you two idiots; how did you do it?”

“We’re not idiots.” Goyle defended himself, “We figured out how to do a Dis’llusionment charm and we stole Polyjuice potion from that fool Slughorn when we was in detention.”

“That’s not smart, disillusionment charms are fifth year material, you should have known how to do one already. And how would you have stolen Polyjuice potion, do you even know what it looks like?”

“We ain’t dumb. We did it. Crabbe drank the potion and turned into Potter, then I did the Dis’llusionment on him and we scared you.” He sounded like he was proud of himself. Wow, so it hadn’t been Potter at all, it wasn’t even worth worrying about; it had just been Crabbe and Goyle’s stupid idea of a joke. No doubt they had been planning to scare Draco, but, instead they had run into me.
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Update! Sorry it took so long to post. I hope you found this chapter satisfying. Don't forget the feedback!