And Then I Met You

Date

The news that I agreed to a date with Draco spreads faster than wildfire.

By the next morning, the entire school knows. As I walk through the great hall, I can feel the stares of other students, as much as I can see them. Stares of jealousy, stares of surprise and most unfortunately, stares of disgust. 

Unfortunately, these stares also come from my Gryffindor friends, who found out about the big news before I had a chance to tell them in person.

I sit down at the Gryffindor table, picking a seat next to Fred. He rolls his eyes and turns the other way.I glance at the golden trio. They're avoiding eye contact, uncomfortable with the situation they've been put in.

"Guys, I didn't want to hurt any of you...", I say.

Silence.

"Please", I grab Hermione's arm, "You know I wouldn't do something like that".

Hermione sighs. "I-I don't know what to say... Draco is malicious, egoistic, judgemen-"

"I know!", I say, "I know that. But there's just... something about him. I'm attracted to him, despite the fact that he's an absolute jerk most of the time, and I know there's another side to him that none of us know yet".

Fred turns to face me. "I know you didn't mean to hurt me... But it still sucks, especially knowing that I was replaced by Malfoy."

"Fred, you have to understand that I didn't replace you", I plead, "I just don't see you as anything more than a friend... And if this friendship means anything to you, you'll accept that." 

Fred sighs. 

I turn to look at the others. "I love you guys so much. You're closest friends I have, and it would be devastating, if this would break us apart." 

More silence. 

I glance around the table anxiously. "Guys?" 

"She's right", Harry finally chimes in from across the table, "Look guys, we all love Madison, and she has never actively said or done anything against us. This doesn't mean we have to be best friends with Draco, but we should-"

"Cut her some slack", Ron agrees.

"Fine", Hermione huffs. "Under one condition: you don't kiss within a radius of at least ten meters of me. Or I swear I'll be sick".

I grin. "Fine."

- - - - - - - -

POV: Draco

I'm standing at the door of The Three Broomsticks. Hands shoved into my pockets.

The autumnal wind nips at my exposed face.

7:32 - Where is she?

I fix my hair for what feels like the tenth time.

The timing I gave was correct, right?

7:30 at the Three Broomsticks.

Just as I'm starting to worry, I hear footsteps approaching.

Madison.

Her dark hair is pulled back into a messy braid, baby hairs framing her face delicately. The cold air has formed a rosy flush on her cheeks and nose, giving her an almost angelic glow. 

"Hey you", she greets me with a warm smile.

I nod in return, "I got us a table".