Rating:
R
House:
The Dark Arts
Ships:
Draco Malfoy/Ginny Weasley Harry Potter/Hermione Granger Lavender Brown/Ron Weasley
Characters:
Ginny Weasley
Genres:
Drama
Era:
The Harry Potter at Hogwarts Years
Stats:
Published: 04/27/2010
Updated: 04/27/2010
Words: 11,482
Chapters: 1
Hits: 278

The Secret That Was Not-So-Secret

DracoGinnyforever76

Story Summary:
Ginny likes Draco... Draco is with Pansy... what's a girl to do?

Chapter 01

Posted:
04/27/2010
Hits:
271


He was hot. I was forced to admit it, as I stared at the boy in question. Silvery blonde hair framed a pale face that had to be etched in marble. Eyes so light, they appeared to blend with his face. His lips were the only color on his face- they were a pale beige, almost pink. His nose was sharp and pointed in the aristocratic fashion. I knew that, beneath the expensive and finely tailored clothes lay a body that would move gods to tears and girls to moans of desire. I'd snuck into the Prefects' bath while he was still in there a time or two. I always looked away once his chest and washboard stomach cleared the water though. I'd been afforded a generous view of his rather gorgeous arse instead. I had definitely wanted to reach out and touch him, but maintained my distance.

Suddenly, his head jerked up and he looked in my direction, as though he could feel my gaze. I knew my cheeks pinked, but I didn't look away. I stared into those silvery orbs, hoping like hell that I didn't look love struck or worse.

"Like what you see, Weaslette?"

"I was fantasizing about killing you with my bare hands, Ferret-Boy."

"I never would have guessed you to be a closet sadist, Weaslette," he sneered.

"They could fill books with the many, many things you don't know, Ferret dear," I snarked. His face paled, which is a neat trick for someone who's as pale as he is.

"How dare you?"

"I do dare, Malfoy. What's wrong; can't recognize a challenge when you hear one? I'll make it easy for you. I dare you to prove me wrong," I said saucily.

"What makes you think I would answer a challenge from the likes of you?"

"Well, if you're too afraid..." I trailed off. Pink spots colored his face and I knew I'd hit my mark.

"I am not afraid of you, Weaslette. How could I possibly be afraid of dirt beneath my feet?"

"Ouch. That really hurts, Malfoy. I think I'll go back to the Common Room and cry. How about you come up with some new material?" He actually stood up at his table in the Great Hall and stared me down. A smile slowly spread across my face. He moved around his table to walk over to me and mine. I sat still, though my insides were squirming with anticipation. He finally reached me, stopping short of touching me or any of the Gryffindors. I met his eyes and said:

"Can I help you with something, Ferret?"

"Follow me, Weaslette." I obediently stood and followed him into the corridor, aware that nearly every eye was on us. Once outside the Hall, he whipped around to face me. Merlin, he was even sexier up close!

"Why were you staring at me?"

"I told you that, Ferret. Are you deaf as well as afraid?"

"I know attraction when I see it, Weaslette."

"Are you suggesting that I'm attracted to you?" I asked, as though it were the most ridiculous of ideas.

"No, I'm saying it outright. All I want you to do is admit it."

"I admit nothing."

"Admit it, or I will not be responsible for my actions." It was really cute that he thought he could intimidate me, so I decided to play with fire.

"I will not." He stepped toward me, and I stood my ground. He leaned down into me and stepped forward. His eyes met mine and I saw the silent challenge there, as well as well-developed lust. He inclined his head toward mine. A hand brushed stray hair out of my face and tucked it behind my ear. The other hand grabbed my hip and propelled me to him. When my body came into contact with his, a shockwave flooded me. The hand that had moved my hair gripped the back of my head and tilted it back. His other hand shifted to the small of my back. Then his mouth met mine and I couldn't feel anything else. I was defenseless to the onslaught of his kiss. I felt myself let go and just fall into the moment. His tongue mingled with mine and another arc of electricity went down my spine. The entire world melted away and all I knew was the feel of his mouth on mine, the strong and sure fingers at my back. And, all too soon, I felt my body being stood upright, and the kiss ended. I became aware of a faint sound in the background. I opened my eyes to see the inhabitants of the Great Hall gathered around us. The sound I'd heard was applause. There were a few catcalls and even more shouts of "encore!" I was thoroughly embarrassed, and fairly sure that I was redder than my hair. Malfoy, on the other hand, seemed completely unperturbed, like it happened all the time. Well, maybe it did for him. After all, he was Draco Malfoy. What girl wouldn't want to kiss him, if given the slightest chance? I certainly couldn't resist him, though Merlin knows I'd tried. I took a step back and tried to gather my thoughts, which mainly consisted of: Holy shit! Who knew he could kiss like that? And why had he kissed me? I shook my head and turned to walk away, but Malfoy stepped in my path. His arm snaked around my waist, keeping me next to him, and all I could do was go along with whatever humiliation he had planned and just hope that it wasn't permanent or life-threatening. His other hand came to the side of my face, moving underneath my chin, forcing me to look up at him. His eyes still held that slight glaze from our kiss, and his mouth was set in a harsh line. I swallowed, nervously hoping that he wasn't about to kiss me again. Something must have showed in my face, because he smiled at me. I noticed that this was the first and probably last time I had ever seen him smile. It softened his face, and made me want to make him smile all the time. His eyes lost that glassy oversexed look and it was replaced by happiness, or at the very least, temporary glee. It occurred to me that we were still standing in this position, his hands on me, us locking eyes, with the entire school watching. I touched the hand at my chin and gently moved it. His other arm moved away from my waist and I moved to walk away again. This time, he let me go and I walked toward Potions, my least favorite class.

Today, Snape had promised that we'd be making a very complicated potion that, if made incorrectly, would kill the drinker instead of cure him. And, as a happy bonus, we each had to test our own mixtures by the end of class. I was pretty great at Potions, but even I was nervous to taste my own handiwork. I didn't much care if Snape was poisoned, because I could claim that it was just one tiny error. If I died, it was over and I was screwed. But then a thought occurred to me, I had double Potions today. It was Friday. Fuck! That meant I'd have to see Malfoy. And only Merlin knows what torture he had planned for me now that he knew my secret. I dragged my feet all the way to the dungeons, hoping that if I walked slowly enough, that I might miss it altogether. But no such luck. I walked into class, to see that everyone had already started on their respective potions. I saw that the only person doing the potion correctly was Hermione, and Malfoy's cauldron had yet to be filled with anything. I grabbed all the necessary ingredients from Snape's desk and walked back to my cauldron. Neville and Harry both smiled at me as I passed them. Ron gave me a thumbs-up, and I desperately hoped that Malfoy would just ignore me like in days past. Malfoy and his posse sat near the back, as close as they could get to the sixth years, figuring that they were less likely to get into trouble if they only tortured younger students. Malfoy was, as usual, engrossed in something other than the task at hand, so he didn't see me walk by. Or, at least I thought he hadn't seen me. A hand shot out to encircle my wrist, nearly causing me to drop all my potion ingredients on the ground. Great, here we go. Come on, Malfoy; give me your best shot.

"Weaslette," he acknowledged in a low voice.

"Yes, Ferret?" I asked, as sweetly as my disposition would allow.

"Would you kindly refrain from walking so near me next time? I could smell your desire for me. It plays hell with my concentration." The look on his face was smug.

"Oh, sorry, Malfoy. I'm not into interspecies dating. You do sit rather close to Harry, you know. Perhaps you're simply confusing my lust for him and misdirecting it toward yourself. It's okay, I understand- we can't all be adored by everyone. Some of us have to pretend," I shot back. Crabbe and Goyle burst out laughing and Parkinson shook with laughter. Malfoy's face twisted into rage and I thought for sure that he'd hex me. But instead, he said nothing and let go of my wrist. I walked past his table, and he smacked my bum. A small shriek escaped me, but I kept walking. I dumped all of my stuff onto the desk next to my cauldron and began making the necessary preparations. By the end of the first hour, I was nearly falling asleep from boredom. This potion really wasn't too complicated to make, until you got to the last few points in the mixing process. The remaining few ingredients had to be stirred in, at precisely the right time and temperature, each one stirred in a different way. I sighed loudly, drawing the attention of a certain ferret. He looked over his shoulder at me, and I rolled my eyes. I turned to stare at the wall, when I felt his eyes on my face. I met his gaze and he let his eyes show me just how long I'd be begging for mercy before he let me go. According to my calculations, it would be a cold day in hell before he let me see the light of day again. Oh well, at least hell would have something pretty to look at. He finally turned back around, remembering his potion. I huffed out a breath and dropped in my last few pieces of mandrake root and stirred. The potion boiled and turned a sickly shade of yellow, almost too bright in its intensity. I knew that my potion would rival Hermione's, and pride swelled in my chest. All I had to do now was wait until class was over, so I could get away from Malfoy and his insufferable git-like ways. Colin, who had been standing next to me this entire time, was swearing under his breath. His potion was dark blue, which meant that he might die if he drank the liquid. I turned to help him, and threw in a few things to balance his potion. I was rewarded when it turned dull yellow. He only needed to add his mandrake root in at the right time and stir it correctly and he'd be okay. He muttered "thanks" under his breath and continued to watch it vigilantly. I turned back to my own potion, proudly simmering in its cauldron. I sat at my desk, unable to contain my joy at producing yet another perfect potion. Suddenly, a paper bird flew at me. It landed on my desk in front of me and nipped at my hand, until I opened it.

Weaslette-

How about we continue what we started this morning tonight, in my dorm room?

Malfoy

Was he serious? I scoffed at the paper and quickly turned to write a reply. I wrote that, if he wanted to continue the delusional fantasy that he'd started, that he was more than welcome to dream about it, but that's all. I sent the bird back toward Malfoy, where it pecked his head until he snatched it out of the air with an annoyed growl. I could tell by his demeanor that he didn't like my reply. That secretly pleased me. He scribbled another note and sent it back to me. I immediately opened it.

Weaslette-

That was cute. Full marks for humour attempts. But really, we both know you can't resist me.

Malfoy

I replied with:

Malfoy-

Since you obviously think so highly of yourself, why don't you put your hands to good use and keep them off me? Also, that kiss was a one-time thing. Don't go thinking you'll ever get that close again.

Weaslette

I sent the letter back to him, instructing the bird to be increasingly more violent toward Malfoy in its insistence to be read. I really did want to kiss Malfoy again, but I didn't want to just be another notch in his considerable bedpost. I wanted it to mean something to him. And since I knew that would never happen, I was trying to warn him away from me. Apparently, I was unsuccessful, as yet another bird-note came at me.

Weaslette-

I know that you want me. Stop trying to deny it. Denying your inner desires is bad for you. So, come act them out with me tonight. It'll be better than you could get from Potter, I guarantee it.

Malfoy

I didn't know how it was that he had any idea how insanely attracted to him I was, but I had to quash it before I did something that we'd both regret, like agree to meet him.

Malfoy-

I don't know where you keep getting this idea that I like you, in any way, but I can assure you that it's just not true. Aside from that, what about Pansy? I'd have thought that even snakes like yourself would know a little something about loyalty to a lover.

Weaslette

Again, I sent the bird toward Malfoy's head, hoping that it might really hurt him. About ten seconds later, another paper bird flew to my hand.

Weaslette-

I'm fully aware of how hot you are to have my hands on you. And what does loyalty matter in a time like this, when war is imminent and we have no way to know if we will be here later to salvage what we didn't take before?

Malfoy

I honestly didn't know what to say. He certainly could wax poetic about life and death, but was that supposed to make me trust him?

Malfoy-

Stop insinuating that I want you to touch me, friendly or not. And loyalty does matter. I understand how a cad like you might not get that, but chivalry and fidelity aren't as dead as everyone says they are. At least, not to me.

Weaslette

I wasn't sure how else to put what I meant into words. I hoped that it got through his thick, albeit lovely, head that I wasn't going to settle for being his sidepiece, to use when Pansy didn't want to sleep with him. Because Merlin knows, I wanted to sleep with him. But I also wanted him to have at least enough respect for me that if he slept with me, that he slept with no one else. About five minutes to the end of class, the final bird-note flew at my hands and I held it in my palms until Snape collected our potion vials and let us leave the room. I opened the note once I got out into the hallway, where I was less likely to be seen or heard.

Weaslette-

I admire your restraint. Truly. Because I know my incredible appeal and its affect on the female population here. But I want to find out what kind of effect I can have on you. I want to find out what you can do with that mouth of yours, besides curse. This is the last invitation I will extend. Send me word with the correct answer, and I will think about being generous. Send me the wrong answer, and you will suffer the consequences.

Malfoy

That sonofabitch! What gave him the right to assume that his unnerving sex appeal would overpower my senses enough to consent to have an affair with him? That arrogant git! I grabbed my quill from my backpack and quickly penned a response.

Malfoy-

You rude insufferable ass. How can you presume to tell me that just because I have morals and values (unlike some)that I'm somehow lying to myself when I say that I don't want you? I have no intention of starting any kind of relationship with you outside of the one we already share. Mutual hatred. That's what suits us. You and I cannot be anything to each other aside from what we've been taught to be our entire lives. So, I refuse to give in to your pathetic paltry attempts to lure me into your bed. My answer is no.

Weaslette

There. That ought to show him. Maybe a little humility would do his rather overlarge ego some good. I folded the note into its bird-like shape and sent it off toward Malfoy. I walked to Charms, feeling pretty good about myself. I even started to hum as I made my way to my seat in the back of the classroom. Professor Flitwick wasn't exactly thrilled to see me walk in a little past the start of class, but he didn't give me a detention, so I continued humming. Today, we were supposed to be learning wandless magic charms. I knew some of them, but still had to point my finger at the person or thing I was trying to charm. The whole idea behind wandless magic is so you can do something without anyone knowing that it was you. So, I thought about Malfoy as I performed my Cheering charm and my Tarantellegra charm. The idea that Malfoy might be dancing around his classes with a smile on his face was just too much for me and I burst out laughing. A few heads turned in my direction, but most just ignored me and kept trying to charm things. Objects of varying size and weight were flying around the room, as well as bouncing up and down. Regrettably, Professor Flitwick told us to end our charms as class came to a close. A chorus of "Finite Incantatem!" resounded throughout the room and every object hit the floor with a few thuds and a few colorful curses as some landed on people's heads. I grabbed my bag and walked out into the throng of students, making my way toward the Great Hall for lunch. As soon as I found a seat near the end of the table next to Colin and various other people in my year, a bird-note flew at me. I groaned in anticipation of the threat I was sure to receive.

Weaslette-

Your reply still did not please me. I want you to think hard about what it is that I'm offering you, and at the very unique opportunity that you seem to be letting slip through your fingers. I give you one more chance. After that, my wrath will descend on you. You have been warned.

Malfoy

Ugh! Who did he think he was, just assuming that he was Merlin's gift to the masses? And what was I? Just some choice tidbit in his everyday menu? No, sir. I was not about to sacrifice myself for his fancy. Was I? I grabbed my quill from my backpack and sucked on the sugary end as I thought up a response. An elbow from Colin made me look up, and I saw that Malfoy was staring at me. His eyes spoke volumes of unbridled lust and my mouth went dry as I returned his gaze. I groped for my pumpkin juice on the table in front of me, nearly tumbling it into my lap. I finally grasped the cup and drank deeply, thanking Merlin that Malfoy was not within touching distance. I snuck a look at Colin and he mouthed what the hell? How was I supposed to know? I barely understood how the Sex God of Slytherin could fancy a tumble in the sheets with me, much less why he continually stared at me from across the Great Hall. I simply shrugged at Colin, who turned back to Seamus and rejoined the conversation. I moved my gaze back to my plate, but suddenly I wasn't hungry anymore. Butterflies were dancing around in my stomach and I had no idea why. It wasn't like I was going to do anything tonight, or any other night for that matter. I wanted to smack myself at how prudish I sounded, even in my own head. I mean, I hadn't had sex, but I had kissed my own fair share of boys, and even let one touch me. But he'd never done anything so bold as what Malfoy was insinuating that he wanted from me. I was shocked and silently disgusted with myself at the excited thrills that ran up and down my spine with each new letter that came toward me. Finally, inspiration struck, and I wrote:

Malfoy-

I don't particularly care if I please you or not. I am far more concerned with my own pleasure and my grades and my Prefect duties. Aside from that, I have Harry to think about, you know. His pleasure greatly increases my own. He's even asked me to be his girlfriend, so kindly back off, or I'll report you to McGonagall or Dumbledore.

Weaslette

I sent the little note flying in circles before landing in Malfoy's food. Oops. Oh well. His face turned a little pink and I knew that he was mad that I kept refusing him, but I had to know if what he was asking was real, or if he was just playing with me. I'd had one boyfriend who just wanted me to help him lose his virginity and one boyfriend who ignored me completely. I didn't need one who based everything around sex. And, as much as I wanted to find out what it was like, I didn't want to know bad enough to help him cheat on Pansy. I saw Malfoy scribbling furiously on a piece of paper, and knew that it was meant for me. Sure enough, about ten seconds later, I felt the familiar scratching on my hands, letting me know that the bird-note had arrived.

Weaslette-

On your own head be it, then. You'll wish you'd taken my offer seriously before the week is over. And, if not, you'll be begging me to take you.

Malfoy

Well, he certainly had a high opinion of himself, didn't he? I just folded the paper back into its bird shape and shoved it into my backpack. I returned to my lunch, figuring that I had to eat something or I wouldn't be able to stay awake during the History of Magic to take good notes. That task was arduous at the best of times, and I fell asleep damn near every class anyway. But, I always tried to stay awake. I just usually failed. I munched on my potatoes and downed the entire goblet full of pumpkin juice.

Finally deciding that I was ready as I'd ever be, I scooted away from the table and grabbed my backpack. I headed out into the corridor. I walked toward the classroom, when a hand grabbed me and jerked me into an empty room. I squeaked, but another hand covered my mouth. I was then shoved up against the now-closed door and kissed hungrily. I wanted to fight the person off, I really did. I just forgot to. My hands wound themselves around the attacker's neck and tangled in soft, silky hair. My eyes had closed of their own volition, so I really had no idea who I was kissing. I was loath to break the kiss, but I had to know who had abducted me. I pushed a rather firm and built chest away from my own. And, I as tried to steady my breathing, I raised my gaze and saw none other than Draco Malfoy, who, I noted with more than a little pleasure, was also out of breath.

"You really have to stop doing that," I said, voice still a little shaky.

"Why? I'm not hurting anyone and you enjoyed it," he said, eyes still burning.

"Yeah? What if Pansy finds out? You'll be hurting then," I said evenly. My breathing had finally calmed down.

"So what if she does? She doesn't own me. She doesn't know what happened this morning, and she has no idea where I went just now." He moved to take a step toward me and I backed up against the doorframe. Dammit, I had nowhere to go! Why were the freaking exits always blocked when you really needed one?

"Well, even if she doesn't know, I do. And I don't want to be a part of this, if you can't be single. I don't cheat; not even when I'm not the one in a relationship."

"I don't know why you keep denying that you want me. It's obvious to anyone who saw you staring at me this morning."

"Is that what this is about?" He nodded. "Okay, then. Fine. I admit it: I'm attracted to you. Happy now?"

"Overjoyed, Weaslette. Now, why don't you come over here and show me just how attracted you are," he said suggestively. He just didn't quit.

"No. I already told you: I'm. Not. Going. To. Sleep. With. You." I said each word slowly and loudly, so he was sure to understand what I meant.

"It will be fun," he said playfully.

"No."

"Come on. You know you want to, so why not?"

"Are you thick? I just said no. What about that isn't getting through your head?" I asked him.

"The thing about not acting on your impulses. The body is a slave to them, you know."

"Only when the mind is bad enough that it doesn't introduce caution and good sense," I countered. I turned to open the door, and that was enough time for Malfoy to close the distance between us. He plastered himself to my back and ran his hands up and down my sides, grazing my breasts. I let out a shaky breath and resolved to grab the door handle if it was the last thing I did. His hands gripped my hips and he ground himself into me. At that moment, I wanted nothing more than to turn around and show him just what he kept begging me for. But, my words echoed back in my head about having sense, so I took a deep breath and tried to move out of his embrace. His lips grazed the back of my neck, and I could feel a day's worth of stubble rub against my sensitive skin. Merlin, he was good at that! I let a tiny whimper escape me. I grasped the handle and turned it. The door opened and I made my escape into the hallway.

I took a few more deep breaths and walked into History of Magic, wondering if I would be energized for the rest of the day. Mercifully, the hour ended, and I was free to go to my last class. Arithmancy was never really my favorite subject, but it wasn't too hard. The class ended sooner than I thought it would, but I was thankful to finally be done for the week. Tomorrow was Saturday, and that meant that I could sleep in. I all but skipped to Gryffindor tower. Just before I reached the Fat Lady's portrait, I was yanked into what proved to be a broom closet. Hands roamed my body again, and I knew from the soft skin that now caressed mine that it was Malfoy. I bit my lip and tried not to moan, but he was hitting all the right places and it was getting harder and harder to say no. And Merlin, I was beginning to forget why I cared so much about saying no. But still, my resolve didn't quite crumble, though it was a very fragile thing now. I stepped away from his amorous hands, and almost cried in frustration.

"Why are you always leaving me wanting more?" he asked in a hoarse voice.

"You? I'm leaving you wanting more? How do you think I feel?" My voice was not as shaky as it had been earlier, but still not perfect.

"Oh, I know how you feel, Weaslette. I just had my hands on you," he whispered seductively. Dear Merlin, why in hell had he come after me when he was already with someone? Why couldn't he be single?

"Yes, I'm aware of that, Ferret. What I'm saying is, you get me all worked up and then you still can't do the one thing I'm asking you to do," I said impatiently.

"What's that?" he asked, as though he had no idea. What a prick!

"Pansy, Ferret-boy. You need to not be with her if you want me. I'm not getting in the middle of whatever the two of you have going on. I'm not in a hurry to die young. She could kill me and make it look like an accident," I said calmly.

"There's nothing between me and Pansy. Just air."

"Then it shouldn't be hard for you to break up with her, should it?" I said rationally. I couldn't believe that I had gotten myself into this kind of mess. Yesterday, I was fine. A little boring, maybe, but at least I didn't have to walk through the school more turned on than I ever had been before and so sexually repressed that it hurt. And now, here he was, doing it again.

"It's not as easy as all that. There are expectations, Weaslette," he drawled.

"Yes, I've heard of them. But, if you want me, you have to prove it to me. Prove to me that it's worth my time to get involved with you," I said.

"I'm talking about shagging, here, Weaslette, not a relationship. You do realize that?"

"Yes, Ferret, I do know that. I'm saying that I refuse to sleep with you if you're with another girl. It's wrong and it's just not fair to her or to me. You're asking me to be ashamed of myself and be a secret. I won't do that," I said assertively. I was going to stand my ground, hormones be damned.

"Well, I don't want to hurt her; she had her uses," he said lazily.

"Well, if that's all that you need me for, I'll be going," I said and turned to walk out of the dark room. His hands claimed my hips again, and I was dragged back against him, where I could feel his desire. I admit, it excited me. I had never had that sort of effect on a boy before. His lips laid siege to my neck, tongue swirling around my earlobe and it took all of my concentration to just stand still and let him continue. I bit my lip, this time drawing blood, as I tried not to react. His mouth hit that special spot on my neck that seems to make me willing to do anything, as long as the person in question doesn't stop. I was almost ready to promise him my life's blood, when he stopped short.

"I thought you were going," he said, a hint of laughter in his voice.

"I would, were it not for your apparent fascination with touching me," I returned. His hands squeezed my hips and released me. Freedom! So, why wasn't I running toward safety?

"Weaslette, you should leave, unless you want the full experience. My patience is running thin, and I cannot guarantee that I'll stop if you ask me to," he ground out. I still didn't move. He took a step toward me, and that's when I snapped back into action. I turned to the door and pushed it open. I breathed deeply, calming my over-sensitized body and slowing my pulse back down.

I walked slowly toward the Fat Lady, wondering if he'd grab me again and pull me back into the broom cupboard. I checked to make sure that no one was around and whispered the password. The portrait swung open to reveal Harry and Hermione closely entwined, hands roaming. I tried not to be envious, tried not to wish that I had taken Malfoy up on his offer. Neither of the two heard me as I walked past them and up into my room. Being a Prefect did have its perks, namely a room to myself. No snoring roommates, no nosey people that can just come and go as they please, no mirror-hogging girls. I heard Hermione squeal just before my door shut, and rolled my eyes in disgust. How is it that everyone else seemed to be happy, except me? Even my brother, Ron, had a girlfriend. Okay, maybe Lavender wasn't the best of choices, and I certainly didn't want her as a sister-in-law, but she made Ron happy.

I pulled off my school uniform and tossed it in with the dirty laundry and pulled out shorts and a tank top. I tugged my pajamas on and ran a brush through my hair before braiding it, to make sure it didn't get tangled before morning. Just as I was getting ready to snuggle between the sheets, I heard a tapping on my window. What the hell? I padded to the window in question and saw an owl carrying a box and a letter. I let the owl in, untied the package and letter, and fed the owl a treat. The bird took off within seconds, and I shut the window. The letter was from Malfoy.

Weaslette-

I have a gift for you. Considering what an ass you think I am, I'll be gracious and try to show you that I'm not as bad as you think. So, all I ask is that you think about me when you're enjoying my gift.

Malfoy

This made me curious to open the box. So I ripped off the tape and inside the standard cardboard was a nondescript box, which gave away no clues as to what lay inside. I pulled off the top cover, and it revealed chocolates. Did Malfoy seriously think that chocolate would win me over? Was he nuts? But, I supposed that there was no harm in eating them. He didn't have to know that I was enjoying the candy. The underside of the cover was a guide as to what kind of chocolate lay where in the box. Caramel has always been my number one kind of chocolate blend, so I snatched one out of the box and popped it into my mouth. Almost immediately, my body began to get warm and I had to take my shorts off. It was followed closely by my tank top.

A tingle started low in my belly and crept lower, until I felt heavy sensation between my thighs. A gentle sensation, like the impression of lips started against the back of my neck and I moaned. What the hell is wrong with me? It's only candy! I fell back against my bed, on top of the covers. My breasts began to tingle with the feeling that someone was caressing me lightly, just enough to tease. Then, my body jerked, as if I couldn't stand it anymore. My breath came in heavy gasps, and I was nearly torn apart with the pleasure of it. I shook with the force of what was happening to me, and almost came off the bed. I tossed and turned my head, not really knowing what it was that I was so hell-bent on finding. Then, just as suddenly as it had started, the feelings were gone. I felt limber and happier than I had been in days. I rolled over onto my pillow and panted into the night. Merlin! I just had an orgasm! Without anyone here! How the hell? Malfoy! He sent me enchanted chocolates! That's why he wanted me to think of him when I ate them! If I concentrated hard enough, he would be able to feel it, too. Fred and George had talked about making products similar to this, but could never seem to re-create the same sensations felt during the actual act. All I knew was, if that was just an idea of how it could really be, then I wanted the real thing. I curled into my pillow and slept soundly, dreaming of a certain blonde-haired ferret.

The next morning when I woke up, everything that had happened yesterday flooded back to me. I wasn't sure where his affection had suddenly come from, but it wasn't likely to bring me anything but misery. I really did want him to want me, but I didn't need the headache of what Pansy would do to me. I sighed loudly, thanking Merlin that I didn't have classes with Malfoy today and so, was unlikely to see him. I grabbed my clothes for later today and walked down to the Prefect's bath. Apparently, someone had clogged the one in Gryffindor, and as a consequence, we had to share with Slytherin until it was fixed. I knew that it was McGonagall's way of promoting inter-house cooperation and all, but it was just a little gross to think that I had to share my bath with people who lived in a dungeon. I walked to the door, and turned the handle. The room itself was gorgeous, I had to admit, and I was slightly jealous that I'd have to go back to Gryffindor's plain one once the repairs were finished.

I walked over to the table, where I could lay my clothes. I dropped my towel and washcloth near the edge of the enormous bathtub, as I walked past it. The tiny table sat off in a little nook that was nearly hidden from view. I hung my clean clothes on one of the many hooks that stuck out, polished silver gleaming proudly. The traditional Slytherin combination of green and silver continued all through the room, extending to the deep marble green bathtub. I had trouble calling it a bathtub, since it was about as big as any pool I'd ever seen. Every Prefect could fir in there comfortably, without touching.

I pulled off my pajamas and threw them in the soiled linens basket. I stepped to the bathtub and turned on the hot water tap, as well as the one that produced massive amounts of lavender-scented bubbles. I stepped into the considerable-sized tub, which easily dwarfed me. The water filled quickly and bubbles multiplied until there was at least five inches of bubble-layer sitting on top of the water. I giggled to myself and reached out for the washcloth I'd dropped earlier. I screamed as my hand brushed fingertips that were holding out my washcloth.

"Weaslette, were you aware of a cluster of freckles just above your arse?" Malfoy drawled.

"Yes, I am. What about them?" I huffed, trying not to be embarrassed.

"They are very sexy," he said huskily.

"That's funny, because I seem to recall you once saying that freckles could never be sexy, least of all on a Weasley," I rejoined.

"Well, they wouldn't be sexy on your brothers. But on you, they're damn near an aphrodisiac." I knew that my face flushed and I cursed my red hair.

"Be that as it may, Ferret, I'm still not sleeping with you." Part of me wondered why I hadn't asked him to leave.

"Why not, Weaslette? You afraid that once won't be enough?" He smirked down at me.

"Quite the opposite, actually. I know that one taste of me will have you addicted. I don't need a ferret following my every step, thanks," I said, as smugly as I could. His eyes widened and his eyebrows arched.

"Is that so?" I nodded, showing far more confidence than I felt. "Well then, let's test your theory." He started unbuttoning his shirt and pulled it off.

"Malfoy, why are you always trying to get naked with me?" I was trying to delay him any way I could, because Merlin knew, I would not be able to say no if he completely stripped in front of me.

"Because I think it'd be interesting," he replied, nonplussed. He reached for his belt buckle, thought better of it, and then removed his shoes and socks.

"But why me? There are a hundred other girls willing to sleep with you, who wouldn't complicate your life by asking you what I'm asking you," I pointed out.

"True, but none of them are you," he said simply. He reached for his belt buckle again and pulled it off. His jeans came next, and then he was clad only in dark silver boxers. My mouth watered and I did my best to hide it. His hands came to rest on the waistband of his boxers, and I wanted to look away, but my curiosity got the better of me and my gaze stubbornly remained where it was.

"Malfoy, look: I've stated my terms. I'm not sleeping with you unless you break things off with Pansy. I refuse to take part in your schemes. Please just leave and don't bother me until you have," I said, struggling against myself.

"You consider this to be bothering you?" he asked, gesturing at his body.

"You know very well the effect you have on me, Malfoy. Just keep your distance until you have left Pansy. I don't want to be a footnote in your strange love story."

"Love? You think that's what Pansy and I have?" he said, like it was the oddest thing he'd ever heard.

"Well maybe not love, but I don't want to be put in the middle of it, whatever it is." I noticed that the bubbles were starting to disintegrate by now, and my body would be showing in a few minutes. I didn't really care if he saw me naked, but I wasn't sure that he'd be able to refrain from touching me and that, I could not handle. I didn't want to open myself to the possibility that he might touch me again, especially when there were no barriers between us.

"Weaslette, you have admirable strength of will, but how long will you put up a fight? Those chocolates are enchanted because that's just a pale imitation of what I could really do to you. Why do you keep denying yourself what you really want?"

"I've said this already: I don't want to be in the middle of your relationship or sexfest or whatever it is that you and she have together."

"Fine, Weaslette. Don't take my offer seriously. Those chocolates are just the beginning, you know. I have many more tricks up my sleeve." He sounded so sure, that I just wanted to smack him. But of course, I didn't.

"What makes you think that I don't have just as many tricks, Malfoy?" I said saucily. I winked at him and let the water start draining. When the water was down to my waist, I walked out of the tub, much to Malfoy's shocked delight. Water cascaded down my body, and I knew his eyes were tracking it. Strangely, he maintained his distance. I bent over in front of him to pick up my towel, expecting a smack to my rear, but nothing happened. I wasn't sure whether I was disappointed or relieved. I sauntered over to where my clean clothes lay and dried myself off. I dropped my towel again and began pulling on my jeans and low-cut shirt. I felt Malfoy's eyes on me the whole time, and knew that I'd definitely hit my mark. I picked up my towel and placed it in the dirty linens box, on top of my clothes. I walked toward the door, past a still-shocked Malfoy. His hands shot out and grabbed my hips roughly. I was jerked backward against him, and he ground us together. I moaned at the contact and his hands traveled up my sides to brush my breasts.

"Good show, Weaslette. I didn't know you had it in you," came Malfoy's hoarse whisper in my ear. I couldn't resist grinding my butt into his groin and was rewarded when I heard him let out a strangled groan.

"There are many things you don't know about me, Ferret. I suggest you go find Pansy and take care of your business if you expect to finish this any time soon," I said and stepped away from him. I walked out of the bathroom with a smile on my face. I knew it was a very evil thing that I had just done, but I couldn't just let him have me, could I? I wanted him to want me, not just someone to help him scratch the itch. I walked back to my room, feeling strangely triumphant. I gazed about the room, taking in the horrible mess I'd created this week. There were clothes and bits of homework strewn all over my bed and the floor, and even one of my bras was hanging off the doorknob. I sighed, and set to work, starting with my bed. I pulled the clothes into a pile and took them to the bin for dirty clothes which was next to the foot of my bed. I saw the box of chocolates that I'd received the night before and deposited them in the rubbish bin. I so did not need another problem complicating my life. It was bad enough that Malfoy thought he was going to browbeat me into giving into his demands, so I didn't need to help him seduce me by eating his enchanted chocolate. I moved around the room, picking up odds and ends and putting them back where they go, knowing full well that they'd most likely end up in a similar mess next week. One glance at the enchanted clock on my dresser told me that it had been nearly two hours since I'd started cleaning this mess, and was only barely halfway started. I groaned out loud, expressing my sincere displeasure to the room. Suddenly, there was a tapping at my window. I moved around the various piles I'd created on the floor, very nearly tripping over one of my biggest books. Once at the window, I opened it to let in a very impatient owl, carrying a tiny package in its claws. I tried to feed the owl a treat, but the damned bird took more delight in biting a huge chunk from my finger, leaving the treat on the floor. The owl turned tail and flew back out the window, and I slammed the window closed.

"Bloody damn birds are a menace to my fingers," I muttered, as I walked over to the bed, carrying my package. I tore through the paper to find a small potion vial. I was leery to open it, knowing full well that not every potion had to be ingested to take effect. Sometimes smell was just as potent. I plugged my nose with one hand, and tried to pull out the stopper with the other, which was a lame attempt. So, I performed a charm that allowed me to breathe through my nose, but be unable to smell anything. Then, I grasped the stopper with one hand, and tugged on the vial with the other, slowly sliding them apart. The liquid inside was a dark purple and didn't give off any visible vapors, but still I replace the stopper and set the tiny vial on top of my dresser until I could find out what it was. I moved back toward my piles and my foot kicked the wrapper that the vial had come in. I picked it up, intending to throw it away, when I saw a barely-legible scrawled note on the inside.

Weaslette-

Since you tempted me so wickedly before, I thought I might try out something of my own design on you. It's perfectly safe, as I've tested it on myself as well as a few willing participants and have suffered no ill-effects as yet. I do not suggest you wait long however, because this potion is strange in its thicker form. The outcome of drinking this potion will vary in several degrees if you allow it time to set. I did warn you.

Malfoy

What in the name of Merlin could he possibly mean by that? And did I honestly want to subject myself to his potions skills? I knew that he was better than I was, rivaling Hermione with every class and potion and paper, but I still didn't trust him. For all I knew, he was lying to get me to drink it and it could have been a draught similar to what happens when the Imperius Curse is cast- the one who drinks it is under the complete control of the person who made it, until it wears off, which can last anything from a few hours to a few days, depending on its strength. Aside from possible bodily injury, the simple fact was that I wasn't about to risk my free will or anything else that the potion sitting before me might take away. I placed the vial toward the back of my dresser, so that I wouldn't be tempted to one day drink it. I grabbed a quill and a piece of parchment and moved yet another pile to get to my desk and write a response for Malfoy's potion.

Malfoy-

Do you really think that I'd be so thick as to drink a potion whose effects I know nothing about? I'm not quite so stupid as you might think. I refuse to drink it, and in fact, I might just pass it along to McGonagall and let her deal with you.

Weaslette

Satisfied with my letter, I raced around my piles and ran to the Owlery. I picked a large tawny owl, as inconspicuous as I could manage, and attached the letter to its leg. The owl immediately took flight and zoomed out the window. I turned around and walked back to my Common Room, only to be yanked into yet another dark room, mere inches away from the Fat Lady's portrait.

"Malfoy, you're really beginning to piss me off," I said angrily, as soon as my wrist was released.

"I promise you, Weaslette, that is most definitely not my intention," came his silky voice.

"Then stop grabbing me and jerking me into empty classrooms. If you want me, break things off with Pansy and then we'll talk." With that, I made for the door, which he only stepped in to block.

"You ask too much, Weaslette. I cannot simply abandon her without an explanation. It just isn't done in the higher circles."

"You know, for someone who wants me in their bed, you sure do insult me a lot. First, I don't recall saying that you couldn't give her a reason, because I honestly don't care what you tell her. Second, I do not want in the middle of your thing with her, as I've already told you. It would be stupid to deny that I'm attracted to you, but I'm not going to sleep with you just because you bat your eyelashes at me. I don't sleep with every guy that I fancy, just because he has looks. I need a little more than that to go on. I also need you to be single, because another girl, chasing me with her wand, or worse, I so do not need right now. I have mountains of homework and Quidditch practices to worry about. So, you figure out what it is that you want, and let me know," I said, and moved toward the door again.

He seemed stunned and actually moved out of my way. I stood in front of the Fat Lady's portrait and whispered the password, which actually angered the Fat Lady, but she admitted me anyway. I let out the breath that I hadn't even known I was holding and walked to my room. Once inside, I decided that cleaning the Muggle way was taking far too long, so I waved my wand, and everything neatly folded itself and moved into its proper place. I was finished within twenty minutes. I walked over to my desk, finally able to see the flat wood surface again, and sat down. I had homework I needed to get done, because I knew that if I didn't do it now, I'd wait until much later, when it would be way too much to do in too short an amount of time. I pulled my Arithmancy book down in front of me, and began the twelve-inch report due in two days.

A few hours and many heavy books later, and I was five assignments lighter and in a much better mood. I stole a glance at my enchanted clock and saw that it was past dinnertime, and I had just about enough time to get ready to go on my patrol rounds. I got up and found my robes, cast a quick Scourgify on them, and pulled them on. Admittedly, they had seen better days, but they were all I had. They had been Charlie's or Bill's at some point, and had passed down to Percy, Ron, and finally, to me. The fabric was so thin in places that I had to be wearing something to cover every part of my body underneath, for fear that I might be seen. Not that I had ever worn my robes without actually wearing my uniform beneath, but my robes were hardly befitting my status as a sixth-year student. I sighed, and did what I could to make the tattered fabric presentable and left my room. On my way to the portrait, I saw Harry and Hermione snogging rather heatedly, and again tried not to be envious. I made my way to the first floor, which had been designated to me at the start of term as patrol area. Apparently, much of the older students kept trying to sneak off into the night for reasons unknown. I wasn't sure how I was supposed to stop them, exactly. I mean, I'm not the tallest or the strongest of my year, and I certainly wasn't the most imposing. I mean, what was I supposed to do, tackle them? Anyway, it never was an issue, because to date, I hadn't seen anyone trying to hide in the halls to make it out the doors.

I usually did this patrol with Colin Creevey, but I didn't see him around anywhere. It wasn't all that uncommon, really. It seems that Colin had better things to do - i.e. shagging his boyfriend- than do patrol with me, which suited me just fine. Colin like to talk- a lot, all the time, about absolutely everything. And I quickly learned that it was better for my health and my sanity if I didn't say a word. I had learned a great deal from him about sex and the many, many ways to hide oneself in the various nooks and crannies of the school. I even learned about places in the library where Madam Pince didn't go, that had nothing to do with the Restricted Section. Needless to say, I was often full of information that I didn't request. I walked slowly along the usual route, hoping that something might happen and that I could catch someone in the act of doing something bad. But, as I turned corner after corner, I saw nothing but shadows and cobwebs. I rounded the third corner and ran smack into a very solid something. I promptly landed right on my arse, on cold hardwood flooring. I yelped and immediately set to righting myself. That was not an easy task, as I had bumped into something, or rather, someone. I looked up to see one Draco Malfoy staring down at me, a strange look on his face. It was almost as though he couldn't decide whether he was turned on or disgusted, resulting in a strange, lustful-disgusted look. I huffed out a breath, as I tried to regain my feet, again unsuccessfully.

"You know, instead of standing there, staring at me, you could actually act like a human being and help me up," I bit out. He bent down, oh so slowly, and grabbed my wrist and pulled me to my feet. The momentum carried me right against his hips, and my chest collided with his. The breath I'd just inhaled whooshed out.

"Is that better, Weaslette?" he asked. I could hear the smirk in his voice. I pushed away from his chest and backed up a few steps.

"What are you doing here, Malfoy? Don't all the snakes congregate in the dungeons after dinner and slither about in general nastiness?" I asked.

"Only on Wednesdays, Weaslette. No one could agree on any other day." Merlin, did he just make a joke? I must be going nutters!

"You don't actually expect me to believe you, do you?" I folded my arms beneath my breasts.

"You can believe whatever you like, Weaslette. I never asked you to have complete and utter faith in me. I only asked you to shag me." That son of a snake!

"True enough. But why me? I'm plain, Malfoy. There are a hundred other girls who'd willingly sleep with you and you wouldn't have to beg. So, why are you chasing me? What do you get out of it?" I desperately wanted to understand, but didn't know if I was even asking the right questions.

"I'm not really sure, to tell you the truth. I want you, Weaslette. Isn't that enough?"

"No, it's not. Not when you're asking me to do what you're fairly begging me for. I need more. I need commitment."

"I'm already committed to someone, Weaslette, or haven't you noticed?"

"I know you are, Ferret. That's why I'm asking you to not be with her if you want me. It's really not that complicated. You're making it harder than it has to be."

"Be that as it may, my offer still stands. And, if you don't want what I'm giving you the chance to experience, I will find someone who will."

"Wow. That almost sounded like a threat. But back to the original point: what the hell are you doing here? You don't patrol until Monday," I pointed out.

"True. But then, how do you know that, Weaslette?"

"I scanned the rough drafted schedule of patrolling hours specifically so I wouldn't have to be caught in the same hallway with you," I said smugly.

"Are you that afraid of how you feel?"

"No. I'm not afraid of you, Ferret-face. I'm not the girl that you sleep with once and then never call again. I'm worth more than that, a hell of a lot more. If you want me, you're going to have to deal with that. I've already admitted that I'm attracted to you, but I'm not giving you anything else until you give me something."

"You're afraid of what I make you feel. Otherwise, you'd be acting on it." If it was possible, his smirk got bigger.

"No, I'm worth more than you're giving me. I don't want you for just one night; I want you for many nights. I want to be able to come to you when I need you. I want to talk to you when I want, where I want. I don't want to have to communicate with owls every time I want to scratch the itch, because you're paranoid that Pansy will find out about us and dump you. And, if you're so worried about her dumping you, then why don't you dump her first? I think that you're the one who's afraid here, not me. You're afraid to feel something for someone, something real, anyway. I once heard that you proposed to Pansy a long time ago, when the both of you were still in primary school, with a nanny. If you don't believe in love, why in hell would you have proposed to her all that time ago? And you can't tell me that you've been so jaded your entire life as to believe that love doesn't exist. Because I don't believe that. Everyone has a heart, Malfoy, even you. The question is: why are you so afraid to show it?" I finished my speech, proud of what I'd said. Malfoy's face registered shock. His mouth opened, then closed, then opened again and finally closed.

"I'm not afraid of anything, little Weaslette. Especially not you."

"Are you trying to convince me or yourself?"

"Shut up."

"Nope. Can't do that. Tried. Never sticks." I smiled.

"Merlin! You bloody Gryffs make everything into a joke. It's always about bravery and honor with you lot, isn't it?" He sounded ticked off.

"Yes, it is. What else is there if you have no honor, and aren't brave enough to stand up for the things that matter?"

"Fun, Weaslette. Fun."

"Malfoy, you really need to redefine 'fun'. There are other things you can have fun doing," I said.

"Such as?" he prompted.

"Flying. Quidditch. Wizards' Chess. I don't know, what do guys do when they aren't having a shag?"

"Planning how to get a shag," he said matter-of-factly. He was perfectly serious.

"Even if that's the case, which I'm sure you're right, you should want to get to know the girl first; her first name, anyway."

"Why bother? Most of them don't even spend the night, and those that do, are gone before breakfast. There are no repeat shags, unless of course, you count my relationship with Pansy. She and I have shagged any number of times. But even she does not spend the night, Weaslette."

"You are the biggest jackass I know."

"As long as I'm the biggest," he said, waggling his eyebrows at me.

"I'll just add disgusting to that list. Excuse me while I vomit. On you."

"Oh, you know you love it. Besides, if it wasn't me giving you hell, someone else would, and he wouldn't have my skills or manners."

"Manners? Since when do you possess those? It isn't polite to jerk someone into a dark room and run your hands all over them."

"Maybe not the height of courtesy, but you wanted me to."

"I never asked you to touch me."

"You were begging me with your eyes, the day that I first kissed you outside the Great Hall," he said.

"Maybe I was, but that doesn't give you leave to just yank me into an empty room whenever you're feeling horny or whatever," I said confidently.

"Is this where I say 'please don't scream rape'?"

"Oh, go fuck yourself Malfoy." I started to walk away, but he grabbed my wrist. He looked into my eyes, his silvery orbs piercing me with their smoldering gaze.

"I'd rather fuck you, Weaslette," he said and leaned down to kiss me. I moved out of his embrace before he could capture my lips and again backed away.

"You can't always have what you want, just because you want it, Ferret."

"Of course I can. No girl says no to me."

"I have."

"No, you said yes. You just have some idiotic fantasy that I should leave the girl I've been promised to since before I was born, just so I can shag you for one night."

"No, I want you to leave her because you know it's the right thing to do. Contrary to very popular belief, you do know right from wrong. It's wrong that you won't leave her for more than just the simple fact that I ask you to. It's wrong because you're breaking an oath you made to her."

"I'm not married to her yet, Weaslette."

"No, perhaps not, but you are promised to her. Wizards and Muggles alike have been killed for breach of promise, Ferret."

"Weaslette, we live in the 21st century, not the 16th."

"I know that, Ferret-face. All I'm saying is this: I don't want you to leave her for me. I want you to leave her because you know that it's right. I want you to leave her because you know that you won't be happy with her. I want you to leave her because you want to leave her." I turned to walk away, and made for the door. And yet again, Malfoy moved to stand between me and the only chance I had at escaping. I huffed out a breath, letting him know my obvious displeasure.

"Weaslette, why do you keep denying both of us something that we want? It's getting tiresome."

"Because it should count for more than scratching an itch, Malfoy."

"Why? That's all it is, Weaslette. You know I don't love you and I know you don't love me."

"I'm a virgin, you tosspot." His eyebrows shot up somewhere in the vicinity of his hairline and a smirk crossed his features. And then, he started laughing.

"I'm glad that amuses you, Ferret."

"Oh, Weaslette, you have no idea just how much better I feel now. So, you're really a virgin?"

"Yes."

"Have you done anything?"

"You mean," I paused to make motions with my hands, "anything like that?"

"Yes, Weaslette, that's what I mean," he said, smirk still in place.

"No. Nothing past kissing. Well, okay, one boy touched my breasts, but that's all."

"So not even a decent blowjob?"

"No, Malfoy. Now, if you've finished making fun of me..."

"I'm not making fun of you. I'm just shocked, is all. I'd just assumed that a girl like you would be well-versed in any and all carnal knowledge."

"I am well-versed, just not well-practiced."

"Well, that does change things, Weaslette."

"How so?"

"Well I can't shag you now."

"Because I'm not as sexually active as you thought?"

"Because you haven't slept with anyone at all. You haven't even attempted the minor things."

"So?"

"So, I'd prefer not to be blamed later, when you regret this."

"Malfoy, I can promise you that the only thing I'll regret is if you don't do anything."

"Well, I still don't think it's a good idea."

"And if you change your mind, you know how to find me." I stepped around him and walked to rest of my patrol by myself, as Colin never showed. Finally, after my long night was finished, I dragged my feet going up the stairs to Gryffindor Tower. What was his problem? If I'd said as much to any other guy, that guy would be begging me to sleep with him. So I had to be attracted to the one guy who didn't want me back now that he knew I hadn't slept around. All my life, I'd considered this to be one of my better qualities- that I wasn't like Padma Patil. Padma had turned into quite the slag ever since Harry had asked her and Parvati to the Yule Ball back in my third year. None of it made sense, I admit. But, I wanted so badly to do something wicked on my own terms; give people a reason to notice me. I wanted to sow my own wild oats before I lost this feeling. It helped that Draco was notorious in his own way for seducing girls and leaving them behind. He was the perfect candidate to launch a meaningless affair from which I could walk away unscathed once completed. The only downside was the fact that he was more or less promised to Pansy. And, as much as I really didn't like the pug-faced Slytherin, I wasn't about to cross that line. I wanted to walk on the wilder side, sure, but I wasn't stupid.

I was Ginny Weasley- plain, boring, forever in the shadow of the Golden Trio, Harry bloody Potter's castoff, the only daughter of the enormous Weasley clan. I was nobody. I didn't have an appetite for fame, really, it was more about making a difference. I wanted to break out of my mousy shell. And boy, the way I wanted to do it was going to shock a lot of people. The Gryffindor good-girl was about to make a serious change. Not disappear, exactly, but something better...