Harry Potter & the Heir of Darkness

CHAPTER 6 - A Visit to the Hospital Wing

Dylan had kept her distance from Harry and the other Gryffindors over the past few weeks. Not only did she feel like an outsider in her classes – no thanks to Malfoy – but she was also having trouble in many of her subjects. Beauxbaton’s had never even touched on anything they were trying to teach her.

Word had traveled through the school fairly quickly about the incident with Snape in the Potion’s room, and Dylan was now treated to an onslaught of whispers and pointed stares. 'Malfoy was right, they do think we are lovers'. Snape had obviously received much of the same treatment, because he was now more distant than before. He would snap at the students for anything and would be extremely harsh to Dylan whenever the situation arose.

Today, Dylan had decided to hang around in the grounds, before it grew to cold to do so. She had found a shady spot by the lake and decided to watch the giant squid swim languidly beneath the water’s surface.

Dylan had only seen Harry in classes, yet he completely ignored her. She tried extremely hard not to be seen by anyone when she came into the Gryffindor Tower at night. Unfortunately, Hermione had been awake last night and had caught her creeping into the dormitory.

“I’m not going to tell Harry about this,” she had whispered. “Since I don’t approve of his threats against you, however, please try to find somewhere else to sleep from now on.”

Dylan tried to smile kindly in reply. “Thanks, I will.”

'Where the hell am I meant to go?' Dylan wondered if Dumbledore could help her out. Though she had already been sorted, and the headmaster hadn’t really expressed any interest in her life since her first night.

She had thought of asking Travien for help, but he would have just laughed in her face. While Travien was a nice, caring guy, he did enjoy watching Dylan squirm most of the time. Travien wouldn’t help out until she was completely desperate and begging him. 'I won’t beg', she thought angrily.

Travien had asked her about her problems everyday. He’d track her down between classes, when he was free, and they’d have a conversation for a few minutes. Dylan wasn’t very happy about it since she was sure people were starting to suspect an affair between them as well. 'Yeah, because I’m such a slut, I like having sex with older guys, especially if it gets me good grades'.

Of course, Travien had other reasons for coming to see her everyday. She hadn’t accepted the idea of beginning training again, and this was starting to annoy him. Dylan picked up a small stone and skimmed it across the water.

She’d already been approached twice this morning by Travien, and had finally said ‘yes’ just to get him to leave her alone. They had agreed to meet at his office tonight to start training, yet she wasn’t sure if she should go. Sneaking into Gryffindor tower is one thing, sneaking through the castle to train and then hurrying back to Gryffindor tower is a different thing entirely.

Draco Malfoy had been pestering her as well, obviously trying to rile Harry up even more. However, it was proving damn near impossible to annoy Harry any more, especially since he didn’t pay attention to them at all.

Dylan sighed heavily. 'What am I meant to do? How much longer does he want this to go on?' This game that they were playing was starting to wear through her patience. Draco Malfoy had seized every opportunity to touch her, not necessarily in a sexual way, but more in a possessive way, even if he knew Harry couldn’t see them. It was starting to annoy her.

Every Divination lesson he would mutter something about memories in her ear. It was as if he wanted her to punch him in the face. The thought had crossed her mind more than once, especially after she had found out about his fight with Harry. She hadn’t even bothered to hide her anger from him, after the Charms lessons she had slapped him hard across the face and ran off before he could grab her.

Dylan really didn’t want to go to Divination this afternoon; it was going to be hell. The day was warm enough as it was, being in that stuffy room with its heavy curtains and the fire going, Dylan was pretty sure she’d dehydrate before the lesson had even started.

She glanced down at her watch, ten minutes to go. All the other students were on a lunch break; if they weren’t in the Great Hall then the students would be wandering the grounds or sitting in the library doing homework. Dylan laughed, 'only Hermione would do her homework today'.

Dylan had forgone lunch today; she didn’t particularly want to face the wrath of Gryffindor or Pansy. That girl had been on Dylan’s case every chance she could, letting Dylan know that she and Malfoy were to be wed next year and to keep her hands off him. 'You can have him', she thought angrily. 'He’s nothing but an annoying son-of-a-bitch'.

Dylan stood up slowly and made her way back to the castle. She didn’t want to make her situation worse by gaining a detention.

As she climbed the stairs towards the room, a hand grabbed her by the waist and pushed her against the wall. Dylan knew there were students at the top of the stairs; she also knew there were other students heading up the stairs – one of which was Harry.

She turned her head away from the boy and stared into the face of Draco Malfoy. 'I wish I had enough strength to throw you down these stairs. That would wipe the smile off your face'.

“What do you want now, Malfoy?” she whispered angrily. “Class hasn’t started yet.”

He stared at her for a long moment, causing Dylan’s stomach to knot uncertainly. A few of the students began yelling at them. Dylan only then noticed that they were blocking the small stairwell; it was only really big enough for one person to walk up.

“Move already, will ya?” One student tried pushing them out of the way, causing Dylan to grab onto Draco to prevent herself from falling. “Get a room!”

Dylan chanced a glance at Harry but he was staring hard at the railing, a muscle twitching in his jaw. “Harry,” she muttered to herself. She closed her eyes for a moment, trying to think of a way to free herself.

She felt Draco’s weight shift and knew he was about to kiss her. “Oh, Draco,” Pansy’s shrill voice called down the stairs. Dylan’s eyes shot open and stared at the girl in surprise. 'I never thought I’d be glad to see her', she thought happily.

Pansy’s gaze ran over Draco, then Dylan and back again. Dylan felt Draco’s fingers clench angrily, their pressure biting into her arms. “Yes, Pansy?” he asked silkily. Dylan stared at Draco in surprise; he seemed to be fighting the urge to scream at the girl.

“Class is about to start, shouldn’t you escort me into the room?” she asked pointedly.

Dylan sighed. Thank you. Dylan was about to walk up the stairs when Draco’s voice stilled her. “Sorry, Pansy. Dylan and I are to be partner’s again today.” Then before Dylan had enough time to protest, she was being propelled up the stairs and into the room. “You thought you were home free,” he grated into her ear. “I’m not through with you, yet.”

She watched the rest of the students enter the room. Dylan knew they were all a little curious to know what was going on, they had all heard about the fight between Harry and Malfoy though no one had a reason to go by. They had probably all thought it was their old rivalry that spiked the fight; however Dylan swore a few of them shot dirty looks at her as they entered.

Dylan watched on as Pansy sat down at the table in front of them. The girl turned around angrily and made to say something to both of them before Goyle sat down beside her. Pansy’s attention immediately turned to him and Dylan didn’t hear a single peep from her after that.

As Harry walked through the door, Dylan watched him sadly. All thoughts returned to that Potion class and his expression then, it was murderous. Dylan was so sure he was going to hit her that day. Just as she was about to turn her gaze back to the textbook, Dylan could have sworn Harry glanced up at her.

Her heart skipped a beat. Did he really look at her? After all these weeks, he finally looked at her? 'Could he have been sneaking looks all this time', she wondered.

Draco leant over and muttered in her ear. “See that? Potter still likes you, so stop getting so huffy.”

Dylan opened her mouth to reply, however Professor Trelawney entered the room and began her long spiel about their task for the day. Dylan continued to stare at Harry for as long as she could. She could tell Draco was beginning to get a little annoyed. “Part of our deal was that you pretended to be my girlfriend,” he muttered.

She turned back to him sarcastically. “Oh, darling,” she said just loud enough for Pansy to hear. “Let me see your palms.” Dylan grabbed his hands without waiting for a response. “They’re so big,” she feigned surprise. “You know what they say about boys with big hands…”

Dylan watched Draco’s face color lightly. “Watch it,” he mumbled.

“What’s wrong?” Dylan smiled at him sarcastically. “I thought that was what you liked? People fawning over you, lying through their teeth, am I wrong?” She glared at him as she let his hands go.

“Let us all relax our minds,” Trelawney’s voice floated around the room. “Everyone take a deep breath. I have already been forewarned that today someone will find their gift.”

Dylan stifled a laugh. 'I think someone’s had a little too many drinks this morning'. Dylan couldn’t help but yawn, the air was so thick and the incense was unable to hold her thoughts in place.

“Come now, dear,” Trelawney whispered. Dylan had barely noticed the professor had walked up beside her. “Well, let’s see if you have harnessed your psychic potential.”

Dylan could feel all eyes on her, waiting to see if Dylan was lucky enough to have figured out what Trelawney was on about. Dylan took Draco’s hands begrudgingly, unable to look him in the eyes. She knew Draco would be doing something ridiculous right now, trying to stir her up, but she wasn’t going to give in that easily.

As her palms hovered above his, she closed her eyes willing her mind to relax and focus. 'This is ridiculous', she thought.

“Well? Do you see anything yet?” Trelawney’s voice piped up. “We don’t have all day, either say ‘yes’ or ‘no’, but don’t dilly-dally.”

Dylan tried to slow her breathing; my mind is a blank piece of parchment. She felt Trelawney leave her side and move on to another couple. However something stopped Dylan from removing her hand.

Her palm began to tingle; the colors that swirled behind her eyelids began to change into pictures. Dylan could only distinguish a broomstick. She willed herself to focus more, to try and recognize anything else in the unclear space.

Dylan broke away with a gasp. Her palms were stinging and felt as if they were on fire. Glancing down, she realized her bright red palms may be in need of some medical attention.

“HARRY!” someone called from behind her.

Dylan whirled around just in time to see Harry fall to the floor. She jumped out of her chair and made to move towards him, though Draco’s hand shot out to grab her waist. “You stay here,” he spat.

“Let me go! I have to see him,” Dylan squirmed trying to free herself from him. “Please, let me go.”

The entire class had gathered around Harry’s body, and was shielding him from Dylan’s gaze. Professor Trelawney was skipping around the circle, clapping her hands in excitement.

“Leave him be,” Draco muttered. “You can’t do anything for him. This happens all the time.”

Dylan struggled harder. She had to get to him, something wasn’t right. 'Why isn’t anyone taking him to the hospital wing?' Dylan drew her arm across her chest and without warning shot her elbow into Draco’s stomach.

Draco released her instantaneously, doubled over gasping for air. Dylan pushed her way through the crowd until she could see Harry’s body. She knelt by his side and put her hand over his forehead, flinching away as her hand began to burn once again.

“I can’t touch him,” she muttered to a shaken Ron. “Help him!”

Somebody shrieked behind her and Dylan felt a weight push against her back. “No, stop!” she cried, knowing it was too late.

Dylan’s body fell onto Harry’s and instantly her muscles tensed. Her body felt like lead and she couldn’t move her arms to push herself off of him. Dylan’s eyes widened in shock, and while she opened her mouth to scream for help no noise came out. A searing white light shot through her mind coupled with a sensation like being electrocuted.

Little black dots danced before her eyes, and her ears felt like they would explode. The silence was eerie and all-consuming; her head began to pound viciously as the room spun into darkness.

“Why, if it isn’t Harry Potter,” a cold voice spoke. “Come to visit us again, Harry? Do you want to know more of our little secrets? Here’s one for you, I think I’ve found a way to bring my allies to the present with me.” The voice gave a cruel laugh. “I hope you all enjoy parties, I’ll be throwing a big one very soon…”

Somebody grabbed her by the shoulders and wrenched her off of Harry’s body but she had already lost consciousness.

“Who’s your pretty friend, Harry?” the voice muttered.

*******

Draco stared in horror as Dylan collapsed into a heap, landing onto of the unconscious Harry Potter. Without a second thought he raced over to the crowd, pushed the other students out of his way and stared down at the two bodies.

Ron Weasley, Potter’s precious lap dog, stared around in confusion. 'He’s probably waiting for someone to tell him what to do'. Draco clenched his fist; don’t bother looking for the professor.

Draco was ready to murder Trelawney. “Weasley, stop standing around helplessly and grab Potter,” Draco barked. “I’ll take Dylan, now let’s move!”

Without waiting to see if he followed his directions, Draco lifted Dylan easily into his arms and raced out the door. She didn’t weigh anymore than a feather. He bolted down the corridor and prayed the staircases wouldn’t move.

He heard Weasley running madly behind him; no one could miss those thunderous steps. Draco smirked coldly. 'At least he listened to me'.

While Draco didn’t care about Potter or Weasley he didn’t particularly want to be blamed if anything happened. Being Head Boy meant helping out in situations he’d rather sit back and muse about later. 'Not that I care about Dylan Thompson either', he thought quickly. 'It’s my duty to help…'

Draco flew around the corner and almost crashed into the hospital wing door. Juggling the weightless Dylan into one hand he opened the door quickly. “Madam Pomfrey!” he called hastily. Even though it was a hospital and the matron preferred silence, Draco was sure she would forgive him this once.

The old woman bustled round the corner, a stern look on her face. “Mr. Malfoy,” she whispered harshly. “This is a-”

“This is not the time,” Draco mumbled angrily. “Miss Thompson collapsed, and Potter is somewhere behind me.”

Draco had propped his foot against the door to stop it closing on Weasley. “Here he is,” the boy breathed heavily.

Potter, Draco was semi-relieved to see, had regained some awareness, and had stumbled through the castle with the help of Weasley. “Harry regained consciousness just after you roared out of the room.”

Draco turned his face away quickly. Madam Pomfrey indicated a bed for Dylan, and set about organizing treatment. Draco watched as Potter made his way unhurriedly to the bed beside Dylan’s. “Don’t hurt yourself, Potter. You’re too weak to strain yourself,” he muttered contemptibly.

“Shove it, Malfoy,” Potter replied weakly. He leant back against the pillows and sighed. “What happened exactly?”

“Who knows? You have another nightmare?” Draco couldn’t help but taunt the boy, he had to do something or he’d go crazy. Three Gryffindors in the one room, it’s too much to handle. Potter just glared back at him and Draco treated the boy to a ridiculously large, unimpressed grin. “Please, you look so pathetic when you try to be angry.”

Madam Pomfrey hurried back with her wand, a glass of water and a strange looking vial. She gave Harry the water and Draco watched on with pleasure as it sent the boy to sleep immediately. “Good, now onto this one,” she mumbled wearily.

Madam Pomfrey removed Dylan’s robe, vest and tie, undid the bottom few buttons of her shirt before rolling Dylan onto her side with her front to Draco. He stared for a few seconds at her chest, unable to remove his eyes. With the outside garments removed Dylan’s breasts were exposed ever-so-slightly, if he just reached out his hand he could…

“Mr. Malfoy,” Madam Pomfrey’s stern voice cut in. “This is no time to be zoning out, I need your help.” Draco stared at her in confusion. “What I’m about to do is going to hurt her quite severely, I will need you and Mr. Weasley to hold her down.”

Draco nodded and grabbed her arms as Weasley grabbed her legs. “How is this?” he asked quietly.

“She can still move her body; you will need to keep a hold of that as well.” Madame Pomfrey muttered as she grabbed her wand. “Ready?”

Draco nodded as he pinned her arms to her side and wrapped his arms around her back. 'This is about as close to hugging as I’ll ever get', an angry voice whispered through his mind.

Draco stared in horror as Madam Pomfrey stab Dylan, straight through her spine, with the wand. A piercing scream tore through his blank mind as Dylan’s entire body tensed and attempted to wriggle free of their hold.

Her eyes were wide with fear and tears rolled down her face. 'Fuck this would hurt'. Draco wasn’t sure what to do, Madam Pomfrey hadn’t given an approximate timeframe, and therefore Draco wouldn’t know when to let go.

Dylan screeched and cursed at them, Draco was quite sure she had screamed in French. 'Where would she pick up French?' He leant down and muttered in her ear, trying to take her mind off the pain. “Don’t be afraid, I’m here. I won’t let anything bad happen to you,” Draco mumbled not really thinking about what he was saying.

He glanced at Madam Pomfrey, and then shifted his glance to her back. The sight almost made him sick. It looked as though Madam Pomfrey was trying to set Dylan’s back on fire. There was a large gaping hole where the wand had been and Draco could see right into Dylan’s inside. 'Is that her spine?'

Draco shook his head. 'Just don’t think about it. You need to concentrate, otherwise she’ll get free'. He stared into Dylan’s eyes and couldn’t help but feel compassion towards her. Here she was being torn in half, screaming and crying in front of the most manipulative prick to ever grace Hogwarts, while he held her down.

Draco leant down and kissed her cheek. He wasn’t quite sure why he did it, instinct had told him to, but at least she had stopped screaming for the moment. The salty wetness of her cheek caused his heart to speed up. Draco would have let her go in shock if it wasn’t for a new tirade of profanities.

He shook his head, disregarding the electric feeling he’d felt momentarily. 'I just haven’t slept with a girl for a while, that’s all it is'. Just as Draco was about to reply to her French onslaught with a few words of his own, Madam Pomfrey removed her wand, muttered a quick incantation and the wound healed instantly.

“Here, take this.” Draco was pushed to the side as the school nurse handed Dylan the metal vial. “It will numb the pain.” Madam Pomfrey raced off to find more supplies.

Dylan swallowed the contents in one go, grimacing unhappily as she did so. “This better work,” she mumbled quietly.

Draco watched on as she wiped her face with the sheets, her face was as white as the pillow cases and she was shaking terribly. “Are you all right?” he asked curiously. “You look like hell.”

She stared at him completely on guard. “Thanks, Malfoy. Do you dish out comments by the barrelful all the time?”

Draco watched as she did her shirt buttons back up. “A thank you wouldn’t go astray. Or didn’t they teach you manners at that school?”

“You should get some rest, Dylan,” Weasley whispered. “You’ll feel better when you wake up.”

“I doubt it,” she sighed. “Thank you for helping me.” Dylan smiled at Weasley and Draco could have hit the other boy. He cleared his throat pointedly. “Oh, are you still here?” Dylan feigned surprise.

Draco clenched his fists. “You’re welcome. Though next time, I think I’ll leave you there.”

“I think Dylan should get some rest,” Madam Pomfrey said calmly as she returned. “Here you go, deary. This will give you some peace for a few hours. I’ll be right by if you need anything more.”

Madam Pomfrey shooed both boys out of the room, muttering a small thank you, before closing the doors behind them.

Draco sighed. “What an exciting day.”

“Of course you’d say that,” Weasley spat. “Excuse me.”

“See you round, Weasel,” Draco laughed before heading to the Slytherin Common Room.

Draco sat on his four poster bed and sighed heavily. He ran a hand through his hair trying to calm his nerves. 'What the hell happened back there? She faints, and then I take her to the hospital wing? AND THEN, to make matters worse, I kiss her, in front of Weasley and that nosey matron?'

“At least Pansy wasn’t there,” he muttered to himself. “Hell, she’d write to home straight away. I don’t know how she gets any pleasure from that?”

Laying back he shook his head angrily. 'Just forget it, it was an accident. Just hormones…'

“Yeah,” he mumbled. “Just hormones...” Draco shut his eyes and willed himself to sleep.

He lazed by the lake, under the large oak tree and stared up at the sky. 'How many more days are left', he wondered. 'How many more until the end of school, till the end of my freedom…'

Previously Draco hadn’t bothered thinking further than the present week, however today seemed pleasant enough to observe the skeletons in his closet. His father said he’d meet him at three o’clock today, and while Draco knew what it would be about, he couldn’t help but wonder ‘what if’.

Pansy had mentioned earlier that his father wished her to be present as well. 'It must be serious', he mused. While everything was leaning precariously over the edge of the knife, threatening to fall into darkness, Draco sighed happily. With a blue sky like the one he was staring at, who could feel upset or worried?

The warm breeze brushed against his face and the lapping of the water was strangely soothing. He shut his eyes for a moment, breathing the sweet air in deeply. A shadow fell across his body, yet he dared not open his eyes. 'Not yet, let me have a few more moments’ of peace'.

Draco heard the swish of a cloak, he heard the sound of someone kneeling on grass and he felt a few strands of soft, silky hair brush his face. 'WHAT!'

A moment later warm, soft lips pressed themselves against his and his eyes shot open in surprise. He was staring into the face of Dylan Thompson and he couldn’t help but sigh. 'At least it wasn’t your father. That crossed your mind for a moment… I wouldn’t have put it past him though, that man is capable of the strangest things sometimes'.

Draco put a hand around her back and rolled over so that he was on top of her, not daring to break the kiss incase she disappeared. 'I can’t believe this!' His hands swept over her face and threaded through her hair. 'This can’t be happening…'

He kissed her eyes, her cheeks, her little button nose and stared deep into her baby blue eyes as his hand moved under her shirt. He watched her eyes widen as he began playing with one nipple and thought he would die. 'She is so responsive'. Draco made sure not to rush things, just incase it frightened her.

Her neck arched back instinctively and he kissed the golden skin there. He nibbled her earlobe and kissed her full on the mouth again. 'Calm down, Draco, let’s not jump the gun.'

Draco rolled onto his back pulling her on top of him. She was straddling him and grinding her hips against him seductively. She leant down and kissed his neck softly. Dylan licked his collarbone and rubbed his chest desperately. He placed his hand behind her head and pulled her down, kissing her furiously.

“You’re driving me insane, Dylan,” he muttered against her lips.

“Draco,” a voice drawled above them. “What is the meaning of this? Where is Pansy?”
Draco’s face snapped up and he almost blanched. He was staring into the face of a very angry looking Lucius Malfoy.

“Father, I can explain.” Draco knew it was hopeless, there was no other explanation for what he was doing, but he needed to try.

Lucius leant down swiftly and grabbed Dylan by the hair. He dragged her towards the oak tree and scowled at his son. “This is what you are wasting your time on?” he snarled. “Didn’t I teach you anything?”

Draco stood up quickly and bowed to his father. “I’m sorry, sir. I don’t know what came over me.” He couldn’t look at Dylan, fearing he’d give something away to his father.

“I don’t blame you, though, Draco,” his father said slowly. Draco’s gaze returned to Dylan and his father. “She is quite attractive.” Lucius Malfoy lifted Dylan’s chin to stare into her face properly.

Draco opened his mouth to reply but shut it instantly as his father’s head bent down and kissed Dylan. Lucius pushed Dylan back into the tree and grabbed her hips non-too-gently. As Lucius made his way down her neck, Draco had to turn around unable to watch any longer.

“Beautiful,” Draco heard his father mutter. “Crucio!” Lucius spat.

The once peaceful area was filled with Dylan’s screams and Draco spun around instantly. “What are you doing?” he whispered.

“Don’t worry… you can have a go too.” Lucius turned his wand onto Draco and smirked. “Filth!” he spat before Draco’s entire body screamed in pain.

Draco shot out of bed, covered in sweat and aching all over. 'What the hell is that meant to mean?' He glanced at his watch; he’d been asleep for hours. 'Bloody hell, get a grip. It was just a dream'.

Nevertheless, Draco’s breathing was irregular and harsh, as if he had been running a marathon. He sat back down on his bed and shut his eyes. 'Calm down!' His body shook violently for a moment and all Draco could do was wipe the sweat off his forehead. He knew it wasn’t real, knew his father would never find out about his momentary fascination with Dylan Thompson. However his dream had still scared the shit out of him.

Draco had been on the receiving end of Lucius Malfoy’s fury on several occasions, and even his subconscious didn’t want him to forget what would happen if his father ever did find out. Thankfully, Dylan didn’t like him in that way, so he would have no dramas by the lake ever.

He took a shuddering breath and leaned back against his pillows. In a few hours breakfast would start. This weekend was going to be the Slytherin’s Quidditch try-outs, and since Draco was Quidditch Captain, he’d have to go supervise. 'Oh joy', he thought bitterly.

After twenty minutes of trying to get to sleep, but failing miserably, Draco figured it would be more beneficial if he went for a walk. While he wasn’t tired, he still felt like shit anyway. Some fresh air would do him good.

He made his way out into the castle grounds and headed for the Quidditch pitch. This year, the cup would go to Slytherin, he’d make sure of it. 'Bloody Potter', he thought angrily. 'I won’t let him win again'.

Draco turned back towards the castle and sighed. There was just so much left for him to do, he had booked the stadium, and organized a time. He’d made sure everyone knew about it, and he had definitely made sure no Gryffindor’s needed the pitch. Even so, he needed to figure out tactics and plays… he’d have to talk to the rest of the team afterwards.

He made his way slowly back to the castle. 'I’d better get started now; otherwise I’ll never get it done'.

Draco sat down in the Great Hall and thought about the day ahead, if all went well today he’d have a bloody fantastic team and wouldn’t need to worry about the Cup this year. He drummed his fingers against the wooden table impatiently. Checking his watch again, it was only seven o’clock. The early risers would be out soon, but breakfast was still a little while away.

He walked back to his room and changed into some more comfortable clothes. He pulled on a pair of black long pants and a green t-shirt. This was about as ‘casual’ as Draco Malfoy ever got, no jeans, no singlets, nothing like that. His father could spring a surprise visit on him at anytime and it was always good if Draco looked his best in his father’s presence. 'A Malfoy must take pride in his appearance.'

Hearing voices outside, Draco made his way back into the Slytherin Common Room, and instantly regretted it. Pansy was pacing the room waiting for him to come out. As soon as she saw him she threw her arms up and ran over to him. “Draco!” she said breathlessly. “How did you sleep?”

“Fine thanks,” he muttered curiously. “Why do you ask?” He stared at her in confusion, tensing as she hugged him tightly. “What are you up to?”

Pansy looked at him in shock. “What do you mean? I am just asking about you. It’s was couple’s do.”

“We are not a couple,” he murmured, making his way to the door. Pansy linked her arm around his and walked alongside him. “What are you doing?”

“I’m spending time with you. We never seem to do anything together, anymore.” Pansy grinned happily at the passersby. Draco knew she loved the attention. “So I thought we’d hang out together today.”

Draco sighed heavily. “I’d love to, you know I would,” he lied. “It’s just… I have tryouts today, and well, it’s strictly Quidditch business.”

“Oh,” Pansy muttered. For a moment Draco thought she’d drop the subject. “That’s all right! I’ll come along and watch. You know, for support!”

Draco groaned and then quickly covered it with a cough. “That’s great. Thank you. That means… a great deal to me.” Draco couldn’t stand much more of this, he had to go somewhere Pansy couldn’t. “Would you excuse me? I have to go to the bathroom.”

Draco made to remove his arm and flee, but Pansy just tightened her grip. “That’s all right. I’ll wait for you outside.”

He strained a smile. “Well, it’s settled then. Let’s go.” Draco racked his brains trying to figure out an excuse to get away from her. He had to get away before she smothered him.

Draco stood in the male bathroom for ten minutes. “Draco?” Pansy’s voice called from behind the door. “Are you ok in there?” Draco shuddered. 'This is bad!'

He ran his hands under the tap and then went to face her once again. “I was just thinking in there, how much fun it will be to hang out with you.” Pansy grinned back at him.

Draco normally wouldn’t have put up with this, unfortunately last nights dream scared the hell out of him, and he didn’t want to make it a reality. I's the part with Dylan included?' Draco cursed that dirty voice, 'of course it does. I don’t like her at all.'

'Liar.'

Draco grit his teeth. Thinking about Dylan wasn’t a safe idea when Pansy was around, she might take it the wrong way. That’s it! He spun around and dragged Pansy with him to the Hospital wing. Dylan wouldn’t have been released yet. He could just sit there; Pansy would get annoyed and would leave him alone for the rest of the day.

“Where are we going, Draco?” she asked pointedly.

Draco burst through the doors and saw that Potter was still asleep. 'Good, one down...' He glanced around and sure enough Dylan was still lying in the same bed staring out the window thoughtfully.

“Draco?” Pansy’s shrill voice called. “What are we doing here?”

Dylan’s head snapped around in surprise. She stared at the two warily for a moment before turning her attention back to the window. “What do you want?” she muttered defensively.

Draco tried hard not to yell at her. “My ‘thank you’,” he walked over to the chair next to her bed and sat down quietly. “I don’t suppose you can give me one yet?”

Dylan glared at him, her eyes flashing with anger. “Is that it?” she mumbled. “If I say it, will you leave?”

Draco nodded solemnly. “Of course, don’t think I enjoy being in your presence.” He grinned inwardly, 'that would have riled her up so badly'. “So if you’ll just get on with it. Pansy and I have a full day ahead of us.”

Pansy smiled maliciously at the other girl. Dylan cocked an eyebrow at the pair. “So, you guys are together?” She glanced between the two and Draco sensed some underlying meaning. “Are you sure? You don’t look like you’re a couple.”

At those words, Pansy wrapped herself around Draco’s arm so tightly he began to lose feeling in it. Draco just stared at her bitterly. “Not that it’s any of your business, but we are.”

“Hey, don’t get angry at me. It was just a passing thought.” Dylan turned her attention once again back to the window. “Thank you.”

Draco nodded. “You’re welcome.” Pansy pulled on his arm, signaling she wanted to leave, but Draco ignored her. “Was that so hard?”

“Perhaps… Will you be leaving now?” she asked pointedly. “You got what you wanted, there’s no reason to hang around now.”

“What’s wrong, Dylan?” Potter muttered from the bed beside her. “What are you doing here, Malfoy?”

Draco waved pleasantly at Potter. “Good morning to you, as well, Sunshine,” Draco wasn’t sure if Dylan and Potter were back on good terms, or if it was just too early in the morning for Potter’s brain to start functioning properly. “How was your sleep?”

“Draco,” Pansy muttered. “We should be leaving now. Full schedule, remember?” He felt another pull on his arm, much harder this time, but he wasn’t ready to leave yet.

“Yes, listen to your girlfriend, Malfoy. Don’t mind us; we’ll be fine without your slimy presence.” Potter was sitting up and the biting comments were flying today at a rapid pace.

“You go on ahead, dear,” he said gently to Pansy. She just glared at him in return. “I won’t be too long; I’ll catch up to you.”

Draco almost laughed aloud as Pansy turned around and left the room silently. 'I knew this would work!'

Dylan turned over and began talking to Potter, though Draco didn’t mind. He could be watching a broom for all he cared; Pansy was going to leave him alone for a little while. 'It looks like those two are on speaking terms. You could just direct Dylan’s attention this way and annoy Potter again.'

Draco moved to grab Dylan’s waist as the doors burst open. “Travien!” Dylan shouted happily.

“How are you my dear? Albus told me everything. Anything I can get you?” Travien bustled around the hospital wing, causing enough noise to draw Madam Pomfrey out of her office.

“Professor Boller, this is a hospital. Please keep the noise down.” The old matron turned around and headed back for her office.

Travien gave a sheepish grin. “Oops,” he grinned at Dylan. “Ah, here’s the man that saved you. How gallant! He’s come to sit at your bedside to check-up on you.” Travien patted Draco on the back. “Good man, I see the Malfoy name lives up to its reputation.”

Draco paled. 'Reputation?' He stared up at Dylan for a moment before turning his head away, preferring to stare at the stone floor. “Don’t get too excited, professor.” Potter’s voice piped up. “Malfoy was just coming in for a short while. I believe he was just about to leave, weren’t you?”

Draco smirked. “I think I’ll stay for a little longer now. I wish to hear more about this reputation of mine.” Travien laughed and set about filling Draco in about the Malfoy name. Not that I really need to know this. Whatever riles Potter up more is fine with me.

Ron and Hermione walked into the doors muttering rapidly. They saw Malfoy sitting by Dylan’s side and glared at her angrily. Draco watched as they sat near Potter and completely ignored Dylan. 'Not as forgiving as Saint Potter.'

He couldn’t help but watch Dylan. There was something about her that drew his eyes to her. “Trust me,” Travien’s voice muttered. “You’re better off slaying a dragon. She’s a strange one. Too many secrets,” he grinned at Draco.

“It’s not like that.” Draco shook his head. “I was just staring off into the distance.”

Travien laughed. “You’re a terrible liar,” he whispered. “We should have tea sometime.” He stood up slowly and walked over to Dylan. “When do you get back?” he murmured.

“Not until Sunday night,” Draco heard her whisper.

“I’ll see you then.” Travien kissed her on the forehead and then waved to everyone. “Take care. I’ll see you all in class next week. Dylan, I may visit later tonight.” Then he left.

Draco shook his head. As strange as Travien was, and no matter how wrong he was about Draco, he was still a good guy. 'Funny man'.

Madam Pomfrey walked into the room and stared around for Travien. “Has Professor Boller left?” she asked quietly. “Mr. Potter you are free to go now. I’m sure you have a lot to do.”

Draco watched on as Weasley and Granger helped Potter out of the bed. 'He’s not that retarded', he thought angrily. Potter turned to Dylan, “I’ll see you around? I may come and see you tonight as well.” Potter gave a brief smile before turning and leaving the room with Granger and Weasley in tow whispering angrily.

“You can leave as well, you know?” Dylan mumbled to him.

Madam Pomfrey stood beside the bed and stared at Draco. “Dylan, dear, I have to check you again. Do you mind?”

“No, it’s all right,” Dylan cocked an eyebrow at him pointedly. “Anytime you feel like leaving, don’t let me stop you.”

“He may need to stay, Dylan. This hasn’t closed as well as I’d like.” Madam Pomfrey whispered unhappily. “I’ll have to reopen it, you understand don’t you.”

Dylan bit her lip and nodded slowly. “Of course, though I don’t need him here-”

“You may struggle. It will take less time if he holds you.” Madam Pomfrey pulled back the sheets and helped her out of bed. Draco stared at her in confusion. “This won’t take very long at all. It will be much easier, since there’s only the two of us, if you hold her while she stands.”

Draco nodded and swallowed slowly. 'Touch her, again?' This had to be a cruel joke set up to humiliate him. Dylan looked as though she would much rather jump out the window than come anywhere near him. “I’ll just go and get my things,” Madam Pomfrey said merrily.

They stood barely centimeters apart and were looking anywhere but at each other. “You don’t have to do this, you know?” Dylan mumbled.

“I know.” Draco shrugged. “I didn’t enjoy it last time, it was quite a shock. I’ve never seen it before.” He stared at her. “She did say it would take less time if we did it this way.”

Dylan nodded. “I know,” she whispered.

Draco noticed she was twisting her hands nervously in front of her and sighed softly. “It hurts that bad, huh?” he asked softly.

She tried to smile but it looked more like a grimace on Draco’s part. “Ever been near a hippogriff?” she asked innocently. When Draco nodded she continued on. “It’s like trying to squeeze one of those into my back via a tiny hole the size of a wand point.”

He couldn’t help but stare at her. 'That bad!' Yeah, he’d been near a hippogriff, it had almost killed him. 'She doesn’t need to know that'. “You speak French?” he asked politely, trying to fill the silence.

'You know damn well she does', the sly little voice was back. Dylan just stared at him, eyes wide in disbelief. She opened her mouth to say something as Madam Pomfrey came back.

“Ok, are we ready?” Madam Pomfrey pushed Dylan into Draco, and he had to stifle a groan. “Mr. Malfoy you will need to hold onto her, I am not taking any chances this time round. I want it done properly the first time.”

Draco wrapped one arm around her waist, the other around her shoulders. “Ready when you are.”

“I’m ready,” Dylan whispered. Draco wanted to pick her up and run out the room. She sounded so small and timid; this wasn’t the Dylan he had seen in class.

He lowered his head to her ear. “It’ll be ok, I promise,” he whispered, trying to comfort her.

Dylan lifted her head to reply as Madam Pomfrey stabbed her wand into Dylan’s back. As Dylan screamed, cursed and tried to push him away, Draco pulled her towards him and tried hard not to look at the wand.

She was trembling so badly and he was at a loss. 'What do I do?' Draco tried to whisper soothing words into her ears though he doubted she had heard them though. He could barely hear himself think.

Draco rubbed her back softly, desperately trying to calm himself as much as her. Dylan’s voice faltered for a moment and Draco froze. “Is she all right?” he asked. Madam Pomfrey nodded but didn’t look up from her task. He felt her body go rigid for a split second before collapsing suddenly.

Draco’s reflexes, honed from years of Quidditch training, caught her before she could fall too far, and Madam Pomfrey continued on as if nothing had happened. The silence was eerie, far worse than the screaming and cursing.

“Done,” the old woman whispered. “Can you carry her to the bed?”

Draco took a deep breath in. 'She doesn’t know what she’s asking'. Careful not to bump the small of her back he slowly made his way back to the bed. “Lay her on her side,” the matron muttered as she moved the sheets back.

After a full minute of careful maneuvering, Draco had her back in bed. He looked at her for a moment, once Madam Pomfrey had left, and sighed heavily. 'What have you gotten yourself into, Draco', he wondered as he sat back in the chair and waited for her to wake up. 'Screw practice, I have to find out what this is all about'.