Forever And Always | D.M

Chapter 17

Stepping into my last class of the day, I spot Ginny and take a seat beside her. She greets me with a warm embrace and asks about my whereabouts from the night before. I confess to her that I had spent the night with Draco, and though her face contorts in disapproval, her kindness allows her to hear me out.

I explain to her all the events that have unfolded, including our evening together, as she listens with rapt attention, inquiring about certain points. I can see that she still isn't fond of him, but I am grateful for her ability to set aside her feelings to ensure my happiness.

As I listened to Hagrid begin his lesson, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. His voice was deep and gruff, but also inviting and comforting. I hung on to his every word attentively as he explained the fascinating details of magical creatures. However, my excitement quickly turned to apprehension when Hagrid suddenly announced that there would be a pop quiz tomorrow. I inwardly groaned, realizing that I would need to spend the rest of the evening studying rigorously in order to be prepared.

Despite my initial disappointment, I was aware that Hagrid's quizzes were always fair and carefully crafted, so I decided to do my best. As class came to a close and I started to put away my things, I noticed Draco standing by the stairs with a smile on his face.

"Hey, you!" I smiled, my eyes sparkling as I approached him. "Are you ready to go?" His voice was full of warmth as he pulled me in for a gentle kiss, his arms firmly around me. "Go where?" I asked curiosity in my voice.

He leaned in close to my ear and whispered, "Our secret room, silly."

I chuckled as I said, "I would love to go, but I need to study for Hagrid's quiz for tomorrow."

Seeing Draco give me the sad puppy dog look, I weighed my options carefully before deciding. "Alright, I'll go with you, but only on TWO conditions."

Draco grinned confidently, his eyes sparkling as he declared, "Name your price."

"One, you have to go to Slughorn's Christmas party with me on the 21st of December. And two, you can't ask me to skip classes or study for any reason for the rest of the term. I'd appreciate it if you let me keep my professors' trust."

After considering for a moment, Draco finally declared, "It's a deal."

•••

This morning's breakfast was a noisy affair, with the students full of excitement and energy as they chatted about the upcoming Quidditch match between Gryffindor and Slytherin. The buzz of anticipation filled the air as everyone discussed the various strategies each team might employ and who they thought would come out on top.

Even the professors seemed to have caught the enthusiasm, joining in the conversation and making predictions of their own. It was clear that the match was going to be an exciting one, and everyone was eager to witness the outcome of the first official Quidditch match between the two rival Houses.

"Best of luck today, Ron. I'm certain you'll be brilliant," Lavender declared as we all looked on, Ron appearing slightly uneasy.

"I'm resigning," he said firmly. "After today's match, McLaggen can have my spot." Harry slid a cup of juice towards Ron as he replied, "Have it your way. Juice?" Ron gave a slight nod and mumbled, "Sure."

Before Ron could take a sip, Luna, wearing a lion-themed hat, cheerfully greeted the group: "Hi, everyone!"

"Ron, you don't look well. Did Harry put something in your drink? Is it a tonic of some kind?"

We all shifted our focus to Harry as he slid something into his pocket. "Liquid Luck," I remarked.

"Ron, don't even think about it," Hermione warned, her voice stern. "If you do, Harry could be expelled."

"I don't know what you're talking about," he said firmly as Ron downed the drink and added, "Come on, Harry. We've got a game to win."

As the game began, I watched in awe as the players flew around the field, chasing after the Quaffle and dodging Bludgers. Ron seemed to be playing exceptionally well, and I could see the confidence in his eyes. I knew that Harry's plan was working.

The game was intense, with both teams playing at their best. But in the end, Gryffindor emerged victorious, thanks in no small part to Ron's stellar performance. As we walked back to Gryffindor Tower, we were all in high spirits, celebrating the win.

In the common room, the Gryffindor team was greeted with cheers and applause. Harry, Ron, and the other players were congratulated on their victory, and everyone was in a festive mood.

As I stood next to Harry, watching the celebrations, I couldn't help but feel a bit worried about what he had done earlier. I pulled him aside and told him that he shouldn't have given Ron liquid luck.

Harry smirked wryly as he looked at me and said, "I know. I suppose I could've just used a Confundus Charm."

I was taken aback and flustered as I uttered, "That was just a practice run; this is a real game." He then pulled out a vial from his pocket and I was shocked as I stated, "You didn't put it in!"

We both laughed, and I realized that Harry was just trying to help his friend. He had Ron's best interests at heart, and I couldn't fault him for that.

Turning our gaze back to the cheering crowd, we see Lavender and Ron embracing each other in a passionate kiss. As I catch a glimpse of Hermione, I notice her eyes shining with tears. She stares for a moment and then, without saying a word, turns and rushes out of the common room, leaving Harry and me speechless.

I felt Harry's hand on my shoulder, and I looked up to see him giving me a sad look. "I'll go talk to her." He said softly.

My heart raced as I slowly nodded, unable to find the words to express my anger. I watched with a heavy heart as Lavender and Ron embraced each other, unaware of the devastating hurt they had inflicted on Hermione. I felt my anger grow as I marched closer to them, determined to make Ron understand the pain he had caused.

I could see that they were deep in conversation so I cleared my throat to get their attention and asked Ron if I could speak to him in private. He seemed taken aback, but he nodded and gestured for me to follow him.

As soon as we were out of earshot, I smacked Ron on the arm. He blocked me from smacking him again, looking confused as he asked, "What was that for?"

I rolled my eyes at him and said, "You can be so clueless sometimes, Ron-"

"I'm sorry, I thought Ron was done," Lavender said apologetically, interrupting me before I could say something I wasn't supposed to.

Ron's cheeks turned bright red as I shook my head, before turning on my heel and walking away, leaving him standing there looking more confused than ever.