Between Two Worlds

014

Now in Defense Against the Dark Arts class, Draco found himself deep in thought, his mind swirling with conflicting emotions. He glanced over at Hermione, who was engrossed in refining the final details of their EPQ. Her focused expression only added to Draco's inner turmoil as he wrestled with the realization that he might be falling for her.

Meanwhile, Ron was enthusiastically showing Harry the truth potion he had successfully brewed in their last Potions class. Harry, ever cautious, whispered for Ron to put it away before they got into trouble. Unfortunately, Professor Whitaker, passed by at that moment, her keen eyes catching sight of the potion.

"Ronald Weasley," Professor Whitaker said sharply, her voice cutting through the classroom chatter. "This lesson is for your EPQ, not for displaying potions from other classes. Hand it over."

Ron's face fell slightly, but he obediently handed the potion to Professor Whitaker, who gave him a stern look before continuing her stroll around the classroom. She moved among the students, offering guidance and reassurance where needed, until suddenly, she stumbled over a stray bag and nearly fell.

In her stumble, a bit of the truth potion splashed onto Draco's arm. He grimaced at the sensation, the cool liquid sinking into his skin. Professor Whitaker quickly apologized and rushed to get paper towels to dry off Draco, not realizing the potential consequences of the spilled potion.

Ron stifled a giggle, finding the situation amusing, though Hermione shot him a disapproving look.

The classroom fell into a focused silence as everyone worked diligently on their EPQ. Hermione, engrossed in her notes, suddenly felt Draco lean closer to her. She initially dismissed it as nothing out of the ordinary, but then his words caught her off guard.

"Hermione, you're... you're so brilliant," Draco murmured, his voice tinged with an unexpected tenderness.

Hermione froze, her brow furrowing in confusion. She turned to Draco, her expression a mix of bewilderment and mild irritation. "Malfoy, this isn't funny," she said quietly, hoping he would drop whatever joke he was playing.

Draco's gaze met hers, his eyes wide with sincerity. "No, Hermione, I mean it," he insisted, his voice soft but earnest. Hermione noticed the use of her first name in his sentences, something that Draco has never done before.

The truth potion's effects were becoming clearer now, and Hermione realized that Draco might not be joking after all. She glanced around nervously, noticing a few curious glances from their classmates. Professor Whitaker was occupied with another group, oblivious to the unexpected turn of events.

Draco's words hung in the air, and before Hermione could respond, he leaned in closer, his intent clear. Caught off guard, Hermione's eyes widened in alarm as Draco's lips drew near hers.

Just as their lips were about to touch, Hermione pushed him back and the truth potion's effects abruptly began to wear off. Draco blinked rapidly, his expression shifting from determination to confusion in an instant. He pulled back abruptly, almost as if he had been snapped out of a trance.

After the truth potion's effects completely wore off, a tense silence settled between Draco and Hermione. They were acutely aware of the quiet whispers and curious glances from their classmates nearby.

Hermione watched Draco carefully, her expression a mix of confusion and concern as she processed the awkward moment that had just transpired. Before she could say anything, Draco shook his head in disbelief, a scowl forming on his face.

"What are you all staring at?" Draco snapped suddenly, his tone defensive as he glanced around at the other students. Some quickly looked away, while others exchanged knowing looks.