Because I Deserve It - Drarry

Chapter 21

They made their way to their next class, Transfiguration. They arrived on time, but only just barely, and McGonagall gave them a reproachful glance. Luckily, she was also pleased by the apparent 'friendship' between Draco and Harry and did not verbally reprimand them.

When they settled into the only empty seats, unfortunately not together, she cleared her throat and resumed the lesson. While intrigued, Harry found himself incapable of paying attention, especially since Draco sat within his line of sight. He unabashedly stared at the back of Draco's head. It was quite lovely, as far as heads go. The platinum blond strands of hair curled appealingly now that Draco wore them natural, and his neck was long and beautifully curved. Even his ear was somehow aristocratic. Harry wanted to trace it with his tongue.

He blinked. Where did that come from? Harry gave his head a tiny shake to clear of possibly dangerous thoughts, especially thoughts of biting, sucking, or licking Draco's neck like he so badly wanted to do.

Bad Harry.

Deciding that Draco-watching was likely to get him in serious trouble, he forcibly turned his attention towards McGonagall's thrilling lecture.

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Draco slowly put his notebook into his bag, mind still on McGonagall's words. He understood the theory, but it was just so complicated that he doubted it was feasible. Remembering his failed attempts at becoming an animagus, he wondered if he could con the headmistress into giving him the answer to both questions by disguising it as an effort to understand her lecture.

Might as well give it a go. Draco stayed back after class, ignoring the questioning look from Harry. He waited until everyone else left, then approached McGonagall's desk. "Professor," he started, "I was wondering if I could ask for some clarification." She gave him a curious glance, then went back to her papers, but signaled for him to continue.

"I just don't get how we're meant to accomplish the transfiguration. I understand the concept of it, but the execution seems nearly impossible with all the variables we have to keep track of. Is there something we could do to help improve our focus and multitasking abilities?"

She paused, thinking. "Hmm. Yes, you're quite right that this requires an exceptional ability to focus. You're already very good at that, Mr. Malfoy, I'm sure you can manage this level of it. Unless you wanted to try something more advanced...?" McGonagall asked shrewdly, raising one severe eyebrow.

Draco very nearly blushed, but his extensive control over his every bodily function prevented that, thank Merlin. He nodded, pretending like he was just another over-eager student who wanted to learn as much as they possibly could. Channeling his inner Granger, Draco straightened his already ramrod-straight back and said in an innocent voice, "Of course, professor, I would love to try something more complex. I think a task to challenge my focus would be very beneficial. Do you have any suggestions for me?"

The corners of McGonagall's lips nearly lifted into a smile. "Perhaps, Mr. Malfoy, but something tells me you already have a project in mind. Heaven knows there would be no way for me to stop you, so the only way I can make sure you don't get yourself killed is to offer my help. If it's focus you're after, I insist you retrieve this book from the library." She scribbled something on a sheet of parchment and handed it to Draco. "And please, Mr. Malfoy, if I could ask a favor from you?" Draco nodded obligingly for her to continue. "You may use any of the old classrooms on the fourth floor for your project. But no more sneaking out at night, you'll fall sick or get killed by one of those horrific creatures in the forest."

Draco gaped. How had she known? Even Harry wouldn't have found out if not for that blasted map! He opened and closed his mouth, searching for something to say, some plausible way to deny what she had known. McGonagall gave him a kind smile. "Hogwarts quite loves to gossip - and as headmistress, the castle likes telling me things." She winked at him, then resumed grading papers, an apparent dismissal. Draco remained there a moment longer, then abruptly turned and left.