Don't let this darkness fool you (all lights turned off can be turned on)

Chapter 2

The next morning dawned with a dull ache permeating Draco's body, both from the physical injuries and the emotional turmoil of the previous day. He found himself staring at the ceiling of the hospital room, the sterile white walls offering little comfort.

Honestly they might as well send him to Azkaban, it would probably be more comforting than this room.

Astoria had left in a fit of anger the night before, her sobs echoing down the hallway. Draco couldn't blame her for her reaction; his condition had thrown their plans into disarray. He didn't even get to wank (i mean he could..but doing it in a hospital is slightly above his moral complex)

As he lay there, contemplating whether or not he will ever have sex with something other than his hand again he hears the door to his room open and the clack of heels make their way to him.

This time Granger was dressed in a light blue blouse which strained slightly at her chest area (not that he was looking, because he definitely wasn't) and another pair of muggle jeans.

"Good morning, Draco," she greeted him, her tone gentle yet resolute. "Ready to start your first session of physical therapy?"
Draco's response was a noncommittal grunt as he shifted uncomfortably in the hospital bed before grabbing the pillow from under his head and tossing it towards her.

"I told you i don't need any fucking physical conditioning granger, and it's fucking three in the morning"

Hermione blinked at him, looked at her watch, then back at him.

"it's two in the afternoon"

Huh.

Hermione didn't seem deterred by his lack of enthusiasm. With practiced efficiency, she began outlining the day's agenda, detailing the exercises they would be working on and emphasizing the importance of consistency and determination.

Draco didn't understand a word of what she had explained to him as he may or may not have been staring at her arse everytime she turned around. He's only a man.

"so!" Hermione starts as she puts down her clipboard "We are going to practice sitting up"

"No" Draco stated flatly

Hermione pauses and furrows her eyebrows "no?"

"No."

"Draco, I understand that this may be difficult for you, but sitting up is a crucial first step in your rehabilitation," Hermione explained. "We need to start rebuilding your core strength and coordination."

Draco rolled his eyes, crossing his arms over his chest defiantly. "I don't see the point. What difference does it make if I sit up or not? I'll still have limp spaghetti noodles for legs"

Hermione took a deep breath, maintaining her composure despite the frustration bubbling beneath the surface. "It makes a difference because every small victory matters in your journey towards recovery. Sitting up may seem insignificant now, but it's laying the foundation for regaining mobility and independence."

"wow" he says looking at her

A smile spreads across Hermiones face, thinking he finally understood-

"you really are still a fucking swot"

The smile disappeared and she grabbed her clipboard and smacked his arm with it

"OW WOMAN! Fine! we'll do your stupid sitting up exercise. But don't expect me to enjoy it."

Hermione nodded, hiding a small smile of satisfaction. She knew that gaining Draco's cooperation wouldn't be easy, but she was determined to help him progress, one step at a time.