Little Miss Mudblood

Chapter 25: Mother

I'm sure Draco isn't suppose to be down here and that's why he hid. I tense, not knowing who is coming down the stairs, and I'm surprised to see Mrs. Malfoy. I've only seen her in passing on the platform, but she is intimidating, just like her husband. I see a tray of food, actual food, unlike the slop Bellatrix brought.

"Here," she slides the tray gently on the ground. It's a peanut butter sandwich and a glass of milk she hands me through the bars. "It's not much, but at least it's better than whatever mush Bella brought you."

I set down the milk and take a bite, remembering that Bellatrix and Mrs. Malfoy are sisters. I will never understand how Sirius and Tonk's mom came from the cold-hearted Black family. I don't know what to say except thanks, because this sandwich is just what I needed. I finished it in just a few bites and downed the milk, handing the cup and tray back to her

"You've been out for five days," she comments, which makes it clear why I was so hungry and stiff. "I'll try to be the one to bring you your rations from now on, is there anything you are allergic to?"

I'm surprised she cares enough to ask. "No ma'am," I say deciding to be polite, considering Draco is right there.

She nods and turns towards the stairs. "Draco, honey, you know you will get in trouble if they know you are down here. Please come on."

He steps out of the shadows and walks away with her. I keep looking, hoping he will turn back, but he doesn't, and I am alone again.

***

Mrs. Malfoy made well on her word. It was never a lot of food, but it wasn't bad. For two weeks she would just stand there silently waiting for me to finish. I had come to know this routine. Two times a day she would walk down, hand me a tray and wait. I'd eat and drink, then hand it back and she would leave, but today she didn't leave right away.

"I want you to know," she started, "I love my son with everything in me. I know his father and I didn't raise the most caring person, but I can tell he is hurting. And I think it is because you are down here. I just think you should know that." And she turned to leave.

"Wait!" I shout so she stops, "Please, please tell Draco I still mean what I said the day he came down here!"

She nodded so I know she got the message. I just hoped she could tell him. I hope he listens and realizes that what I said was the truth. I know it has to be hard not knowing real love, and who knows, he may not love me back.