The rest of the story

Chapter Two

I'm sitting in first period potions class, and I already can't wait for the day to be over. I couldn't sleep much last night, and I woke up unnecessarily early for no reason. I watch as other students finally begin filing in in an aggravatingly slow trickle, one by one through the doors. Granger is the first, looking bright and determined as always, strutting in with her color coded notes and filing system. Weasley doesn't show up until much later. When he does, I'm surprised to see that Potter isn't with him. It's oddly disorienting to see the infamous trio all split up and scattered about. I don't quite know where to glare.
The minutes tick by until every student has filed in and sat down. Every student except Potter. Not that I care. It's just odd. My eyes keep involuntarily flicking to the door. I notice Hermoine doing the same thing. I try to stop myself, but I can't. Why should I care when he shows up or if he does at all for that matter? I'd rather he didn't anyway. His taunting smile flashes through my mind again, and my resolution strengthens. I want that psychopathic lunatic as far away from me as possible. Class begins, but my eyes keep glancing at the door every so often.

"Felix Felicis. Now, you students will not be making a potion like this for quite a long time, but just to give you an idea of the possibilities your future may hold..." Slughorn's voice drones on. I feel much more tired and restless than I do uplifted or inspired. "And that is why—" The heavy oak door creaks open as Potter stumbles in looking like he barely had time to get dressed. His robes are in disarray, and his hair is a chaotic mess about his face. He notices me looking at him, and his mouth turns into a small side smile. I glare back at him before forcing myself to look away. "Ah, Potter. Glad you could join us this morning."

"Sorry Professor," he murmurs, slipping into the seat beside Hermoine. She glares daggers at him like a disappointed mother.

"Now as I was saying..." Slughorn's voice continues on as I try and fail to force myself to pay attention.

What do I want from Potter? What a stupid question. All I want from him is for him to get away from me. Stupid Potter and his stupid friends. God, I hate them. My mind flashes back to the playful smile flickering across his lips. No. There's nothing important about what he said. He was just trying to mess with me. Obviously. Maybe it was his way of getting back at me for taunting him. It doesn't matter. The only thing that matters is that it is none of my concern.

"Draco, do you have anything to add?" Slughorn asks, staring pointedly at me. The quill in my hand is cracked. I don't even have my notes out in front of me.

"No, professor," I stammer, quickly turning to organize my papers. Someone laughs, and I glare haughtily at them.

"Very well then." Slughorn keeps talking, and I begin furiously taking notes. I still don't parse most of what he's saying, but at least I'm writing it down. Finally he dismisses class. I stand to leave, but Slughorn calls after me. "Malfoy, Potter. A word please." Oh no.

"Yes, professor?" The other students file out as Harry joins me in front of Professor Slughorn.

"It seems that engagement in my class is a struggle for the two of you today. Meet me in my office after classes today for detention. That should help give you ample time to focus on your studies.

"Together?" I glare at Potter. An amused expression flickers through his eyes.

"Is there a problem?"

"I just..." Slughorn stares at me severely, and I glance to the floor. "No, Professor."

"Then I will see you this afternoon. My office." I nod to Slughorn before striding quickly from the room. I've barely made it out the door when Potter pushes past me. His eyes meet mine, and he grins.