Heartbeat

Chapter 11- Merlot's Mission

Draco

"It's time," a gruff voice calls, knocking on the manor door. 

Mum lets out a sob, leaning into Father. They both turn to look at me. I can feel the tears prickling in my eyes, but I blink rapidly, willing them to go away. Now is not the time to get emotional. 

I take a few hesitant steps towards the front door, and open it. Two men stand outside, their eyes bearing a strong hatred. One of them is short and stocky, the other lean and menacing.

"We're here for the arrest of Draco and Lucius Malfoy," says the short one, carefully taking out an envelope. 

"Actually," Father says, "We've arranged something else."

I stare at him; I wasn't informed about any changes. There's a loud crack, and Kingsley Shacklebolt stands outside the door. 

"I'll take that you both are prepared for the change of plans?" he asks. 

"What's going on?" I ask loudly, after seeing Mum and Father nod their heads. 

"Draco, we've figured out a way in which you don't have to go to Azkaban."

My heart beats fearfully. 

"What do you mean?"

"It's simple," Shacklebolt says curtly. "Narcissca and Lucius are imprisoned, and you can stay out-"

"No," I snarl. "You can't send Mum to Azkaban, she's not a Death Eater. That's only me and my father."

"However, we do not wish to destroy young lives by throwing them in Azkaban," Shacklebolt says coldly. "Your parents will be in Azkaban, and you'll stay out. That's what is going to happen."

"What's the point?" I ask furiously. "What am I even supposed to do, without them?"

"Ah, that's where all of your conditions come in. You may be free from prison, but you're still a former Death Eater, and a danger to those around you."

I flinch. 

"You'll be going to Hogwarts."

The words send a flash of shock through me. 

"They're opening Hogwarts?" I ask, my voice barely above a whisper. 

"Yes. While it is optional for seventh years like yourself, the Ministry has decided that you will be going if you wish to stay safe," Shacklebolt explains. "You'll be on probation, of course. A ministry worker will be with you at all times to make sure you don't cause trouble."

"But why does Mum have to go to Azkaban-"

"Silence!"

I fall quiet, but glare at them nonetheless. 

"It won't be that bad," Mum soothes. "You can come and visit us on the holidays."

She's lying, and we both know it. If there's a place that's 'that bad,' it's Azkaban. 

"Can I come with?" I ask.