What if He had a Choice?

51

Draco had to admit he felt almost shocked that Tom was taking such time with him. He knew that, as the future Dark Lord, he had far better things to do with his time. He knew that the other was trying to get into his good graces, but he had no idea necessarily why...either way it did not matter. He was learning things that he would otherwise likely never learn, what with his Father being against his delving too deep into the Dark Arts, something he found ludicrous considering how much the Malfoy family was known for it. Not just that, but as much as his father claimed the Arts too dangerous, their entire manor was seeped in artifacts of the darkest arts, and even his mother had taken him to Grimwauld Place, the house of the Blacks, and that was yet another home soiled with the Dark Arts in every corner. The Dark Lord was teaching him things he would otherwise likely not learn because his Father did not want him to. He did not know why, and he wondered if Tom would have an issue with it, but he knew better than to question things.

His magic also felt so much better. He had noticed it the more their little training sessions had gone on. He had felt less anxious, more like himself, more in control of himself. It was something he had not felt for at least a year, since the Chamber had been opened, and perhaps even before it. He had always known he had an affinity for dark magic, he had overheard his father and mother speaking about it late one night in the drawing room, though he had been quite careful not to allow them to see him lurking. It was then that his father for some reason decided not to teach it to him. He had been hoping that perhaps he would be taught eventually, and that maybe it just was not the time, but as time went on Draco began to realize that his father had no intention of teaching it to him at all. Why? He did not know, not really, but it did not matter now, did it?

Despite what his father wanted, Draco was learning the Dark Arts, and he quite enjoyed it too. This rebellion against his father was merely a plus, though Draco knew the moment that it was learned about he was going to be in quite some serious trouble, but the Dark Lord had said quite clearly that he would not tell father yet...and he just had to hope that the other was telling the truth. There was no real reason for him to lie, but Draco also knew that the Dark Lord would lie if it fit his schemes, and Draco could not blame him because he would do the same thing.

"What has you so far away, my dear?" Tom questioned, his fingers prodding Draco's cheek, in full view of his entire class. Draco felt himself flush brightly, standing in stark contrast to his pale skin, redness flooding his cheeks. Embarrassment was slowly becoming the norm for Draco when it came to Tom's little...acts like this. It felt good, but at the same time left him feeling horrified at the boldness that he displayed. Yet, that was something that Draco could also admire, as it was not foolishly bold. He knew that Tom had the ability to fend for himself, and could easily protect himself and Tom if needed.

Pansy was slowly, but surely, walking up to them, along with Blaise. Draco was surprised that they had not stayed longer in the Hospital wing with him, but he also knew that he could not fault them for that...they had their classes, and studying, and homework to do. They had their own ambitions as well. Draco may value their friendship, but he also knew that they had their own expectations to fulfill. His father would have been absolutely livid knowing he purposefully skipped class, regardless of the reason behind it. Even while injured, it did not matter. His father was quite strict after all, and missing classes was simply not allowed, in any form. Even the boring ones, or the ones he already knows and therefore should not even have to deal with.

"I was just thinking, about how thankful I am to you, and I know you are wasting a lot of time dealing with me, but you are still willing to do so, and I just...find myself surprised and yet at the same time in awe." Draco admitted quietly. He gave furtive glances over at the Trio in the corner, he really did not need them hearing anything he was speaking on. They would only draw conclusion, or potentially cause trouble. He definitely did not need any more trouble. His Father being here this morning was enough of a trouble that it had almost caused him a heart attack. He also knew that if he drew more anger from his father, he doubted even the Dark Lord would be able to save him entirely.

"It is nothing," Tom brushed off. Perhaps for him. Draco thought to himself. But to me...I think it is commendable, that he is willing to go so far for me, and to ensure my safety. He could not help but let his fingers drift up to the choker Tom had gifted him earlier that morning. It calmed him.

"Your class, it is going to start soon. Are you sure that you will be fine?" Draco hushed out. Pansy and Blaise had joined them by now, and Draco was not keen on emotional talks with Tom when others were present. They were already wary of him, and Draco knew for certain that would continue, especially since he had caught the attention of the Malfoys. Tom seemed to be doing quite well, despite it.

"I am, the teacher will undoubtedly excuse me once they know I was aiding you to your class." Tom wrapped an arm around his waists, pulling him close and squeezing. "However you are right, I should be heading out...before I am too late. Be careful, little dove." Tom whispered the last sentence directly into the young Malfoy's ear, watching with pleasure as it made his heart rate jack up and pink flush his cheeks once more.