Just Friends

Chapter 9

* "So much for just friends" *

The day of the Yule Ball finally came. And as I stood there in my dress, and stared into the mirror I felt a wave of anxiety wash over me. Is this dress okay? How should I do my hair? What if Draco changes his mind? What if he doesn't show up? My mind buzzed with questions. I sat down on my bed and cradled my head in my hands.

I heard a soft knocking on my door and quickly stood up.
"Who is it?" I called.
"It's me Y/N!" I heard Draco say.
"Draco! You can't see me until The Ball!" It was silent for a second and then he spoke up.
"Uh.. Y/N? The Ball started ten minutes ago. You're late." I checked the time. Shit. He was right.
"I'll be right there! Just wait for me at the stairs!"

I checked myself out in the mirror as I did a quick spell to perfect my hair and makeup.

Running down the cobblestone stairs, I caught a glimpse of Draco waiting for me. His jaw dropped in awe.
"Y/N.. you look.. wow.." He said. I felt myself blush at his words. I leaned over and gave him a quick kiss on the lips as I linked my arm through his.

We arrived at the large wooden doors. I could hear music and laughter through them. "Are you ready?" Draco asked. I nodded and pushed the heavy door open. I gasped as I looked around the room.

There was a huge, white, christmas tree, glistening and sparkling with bright fairy lights. Snow was falling through the room, and the walls were a rich shade of blue. People were dancing, laughing, and talking.
"Wow.." I whispered.
"Gorgeous, isn't it?" Draco said. I felt a chill go up my spine as I took in the view.

Draco took my hand, and pulled my to the dance floor. There was a fun, upbeat song playing. We danced together for a while, and as I gazed up at his eyes, I noticed they looked enchanted. He had a small smile on his face as he watched me sway my hips to the music.

"Y/N" he began. "I have something to tell you." he mumbled. I gave him a questioning look. "What's wrong?" I said, frowning. There was clearly something on his mind, but I couldn't pinpoint what. He shook his head absentmindedly.
"I'm going to go get us some drinks." He mumbled, as he walked away. I decided to find a small table in the corner of the Great Hall.

As I sat there, watching the partygoers dance and laugh together, I let out a long, happy sigh. I was at the Yule Ball with Draco Malfoy. And I couldn't have been happier. But there was something in the back of my mind, still concerning me as I wondered what was wrong with him. What had he wanted to tell me?

I watched as he came back with two non-alcoholic butterbeers and sat down. I smiled greatfully at him as I sipped my drink. He reached over and held my hand across the table.
"Y/N.. I know we haven't been dating for that long, but ever since I saw you, I haven't been able to get you off my mind."
I blushed bright red at his words.
"Y/N, I-"
He was interrupted by the DJ over the microphone.

"Okay Wizards and Witches, it's time for the last dance." I hadn't even realised how late it had gotten. I pulled Draco up from his seat as a slow song began to play. We headed to the dance floor and I wrapped my arms around him. We swayed softly to the music as I lay my head on his shoulder. I looked up into his gray-blue eyes as he smiled down at me.
"What is it you wanted to tell me?" I asked. I noticed him swallow nervously.

"I love you."

I felt my stomach fill with butterflies. Had I heard him right? I couldn't help but smile.
"I love you too Draco." I whispered. He leaned down and embraced me in a deep kiss.

So much for 'Just friends'