Serpent's Bride

Serpent’s Bride

Chapter VIII: Harry Potter and The Serpent Necklace

Chapter VIII: Harry Potter and the Serpent Necklace

"And please raise your arms a little bit, dear," Narcissa said as she paced back and forth while thoughtfully waving her wand in the air inside Ginny's small room. Ginny obliged while Molly, in turn, pursed her lips as her eyes surveyed the partially made wedding dress on Ginny. Narcissa finally stopped and turned to her. "It's a little bit loose on this side," she added.

"Yes, I think so," Molly agreed as the two women both made their way towards Ginny and began adjusting the dress just a little below her right underarm. Ginny stood still as Narcissa held the folded part in place while Molly began sticking pins here and there. She sighed tiredly and turned miserably, watching her reflection.

She was feeling so, so tired. Her sides were aching and her arms were feeling stiff... it had been what-- five hours already since eight in the morning? It seemed that Narcissa Malfoy and Molly Weasley couldn't make their minds up. Ginny shifted her weight to her other foot impatiently and turned her attention to the two fussing mothers before her, her face growing thoughtful. It really amazed her to see how quickly Narcissa and Molly became friends... Well, if they weren’t friends, they were quite civil and tolerant of each other. Other than the fact that Draco was about to marry Ginny, it was the way Narcissa tried her best to reach out towards Molly that encouraged the friendship. It actually surprised Ginny when she heard Draco's mother apologizing for Lucius’ behavior to her parents and when Narcissa asked if they could start all over again. Her parents, though a little reluctant at first, agreed. Or maybe it was because of the way her mother behaved during their trip to Diagon Alley yesterday? She thought. It was no doubt that Narcissa was quite impressed at how Molly haggled for her wedding dress.

"Oh and honey," Molly said, standing up. Ginny looked up and raised her eyebrows.

"Yes?" she asked.

"Don't shift you weight like that," her mother said, smiling gently at her. "It'll ruin your shoes."

At that, Ginny sighed and stood straight. If she had just known that she would have to go through all this trouble, then she wouldn't have agreed to this marriage in the first place!

"Virginia, just a little more patience," Narcissa said, as if reading her mind. She smiled apologetically at her.

"A little more patience and you will see my arms falling off," Ginny replied miserably.

"Can’t we just continue this tomorrow, or maybe later?" she asked hopefully.

Narcissa shook her head. "Oh, Virginia dear, we don’t have much time," she said. "You’re wedding’s a week from now and doing these alterations will take days. And then later—"

"It’s your engagement party, remember?" supplied Molly as she stepped backwards surveying the alterations. Then she turned to Narcissa. "Really, Mrs. Malfoy," she said tiredly. "I can’t see the point of doing this when we could’ve let Edwina handle everything," she added.

"Oh, I just want Virginia’s wedding dress to be perfect," Narcissa answered as she placed the veil on Ginny’s head. "Believe me, it’s much better if we do the alterations. That way, we can be sure that it’ll fit her perfectly," then she sighed. "Kind of reminds me of my own time. Lucius’ mother really made quite a fuss at Madam Malkin’s—"

"Oh, so that’s why when Edwina saw us—" Molly shook her head as she remembered the look of dismay and dread on the face of Madam Malkin’s assistant, Edwina Lovelock, when they had entered their shop.

Narcissa gave out a soft giggle. "We really made quite an impression back then," she said. "A very horrible impression, that is."

"Is this veil supposed to be this long?" Ginny asked abruptly with a frown, completely ignoring the conversation about Edwina’s dreadful dress much to the dismay of Madam Malkin or something of the sort. She took off the veil and held it before her. "Too long, if you ask me," she added.

"Oh yes, it’s supposed to be that long," Narcissa answered, placing the veil upon Ginny’s head once more. Then she turned to Molly, smiling. "I just can’t believe we got this fabulous dress at such a big discount," she breathed with delight as she fingered the lush material of the dress made from silk.

"Well, what can I say? I’m the best when it comes to shopping," Molly said airily.

"Mom’s used to it," quipped Ginny, chuckling as she put her arms down. She couldn’t forget how her mother had been when they still had to buy school things. When it came to haggling, there was no one better than Molly Weasley.

"I never knew you could do that inside the shops," Narcissa said with disbelief, as if the thought of haggling was illegal. "Oh well, at least I know now. Maybe you could accompany me sometime?" she asked hopefully.

"No problem," Molly replied naturally. It actually hadn’t surprised her to learn that Narcissa Malfoy didn’t know that haggling was allowed in any shop at Diagon Alley. But then, she was a Malfoy and Malfoys didn’t haggle or bargain or ask for prices and such, right? They just chose and bought. Haggling about the price was always out of the question. Then she frowned. "So I take it that the engagement party will be held at your manor?" she asked Narcissa.

"Uh no, it will be at Vlad Manor," Narcissa replied as she took the veil from Ginny’s red hair, rumpling her mane even more.

"Vlad Manor?" Ginny echoed. "So, there are actually two— then whose manor did we—"

"Oh, that’s Vlad Manor," Narcissa answered as Ginny struggled carefully out of the dress. Molly waved her wand, casting a spell to hold the pins firmly in place. "It was originally known as Malfoy Manor but then, Lucius, not creative as he was, also named his own manor Malfoy Manor. In order to avoid confusion, people call Father’s manor Vlad Manor and our manor Malfoy Manor," she explained as Ginny stood there in her underwear.

"The confusion of being too rich," Molly said, sighing as she neatly folded the dress and placed it inside the box. "And how about the wedding?" she asked after a moment.

"Draco and I have decided to have it at uh—Malfoy Manor," Ginny muffled out as she put on her mesh, light brown off-the-shoulder gypsy style dress. She brought her hands to her shoulder sleeve and pulled it down lightly, exposing a pair of slender and freckled shoulders. "And speaking of Draco—" she stopped when a sudden a knock echoed inside the room.

"Can I come in already?" Draco asked from behind the door.

"Yes, we have already kept the dress," Ginny answered as Molly, in turn, opened the door. Draco let out a warm smile as he stepped inside. Ginny frowned as she surveyed Draco’s tall build inside her room. Indeed, a towering Draco inside a little girl’s room was a bad combination. He really looked out of place, terribly clashing with the baby blue and white wallpaper of her room and the soft, light yellow hue of her quilt, pillows and bed sheets. She turned away and began arranging her messy hair into a tight ponytail, letting the curly red tips hang down her back. Draco, in turn, stared at her first, his eyes not missing the slender and smooth shoulders sticking out of her dress, before smiling at the two older women standing just beside Ginny.

"Damn nice shoulders she’s got there,"

he thought. "Don’t tell me you believe that Muggle superstition of forbidding the groom to see the wedding dress before the wedding?" Draco finally asked, raising an eyebrow at the two mothers. "Because if you do, it’s really pointless," he added as he shook his head.

"Well, there’s no harm in it," Molly said as she picked Ginny’s shoes up and returned it to its box.

"And besides, it’s not superstition, it’s true," Narcissa supplied. "Look at what happened to the Walkers! I heard that Oliver saw Margaret’s dress before the wedding and in just three years, the marriage became rocky," she said, shaking her head. "And there’s this one, with the Harper’s— look at what it got them. They still have no children!"

"Really?" Molly asked her eyes wide. "Oh my, that’s why Emma’s having difficulty having children! Oh, I wouldn’t want that to happen to my Ginny! I want little grandchildren running around here!" she added.

At that, Ginny let out an uncomfortable choke. She turned to her mother and frowned. More grandchildren! Weren’t Robert, Miranda, Patrice, and mischievous little Sylvia enough? What more could her mother ask for? For a second there, Ginny felt her stomach flipping. Babies? With Draco? Unwillingly, she paled a little. That’s— that’s— Well she had nothing against babies… In fact, she loved them— but having Draco’s baby?

"Really, mother," Draco said upon seeing Ginny’s near-to-fainting reaction. "The wonders of gossip," he added, chuckling a little.

"It’s not gossip, dear," Narcissa said, frowning. "And I completely agree with Molly. I wouldn’t want that to happen to Virginia. I want to have little grandchildren making noise and raising hell inside the manor. I’m sure your grandfather wouldn’t mind that either. Oh, a pretty girl would do or a lovely boy, " she added dreamily.

"Well that thing surely won’t happen to us," Draco replied charmingly. "I’m healthy, Virginia’s healthy, we’re both healthy and I assure you we can give you lots and lots of grandchildren when the timing’s right,"

"You idiot! You’re making empty promises!"

Ginny’s brain screamed. She glowered darkly at Draco when Molly and Narcissa turned away from them momentarily. When Draco smiled cruelly, she opened her mouth. "Asshole," she mouthed. Then she placed her fingers at her temple and shook her head. "Stupid! Stupid! Stupid son of a-"

"Ginny dear are you all right?"

Ginny stopped and looked up to see her mother’s worried face before her. She forced out a smile. "Uh—yes, mother," she said.

"You’re not coming down with a headache, are you Virginia?" Narcissa asked.

"No, no— I’m all right, really," she said. Then she turned to Draco who replaced the cruel expression of his face with that of concern. "Aren’t we going to pick out the rings?" she asked weakly while putting her thick cloak over her bare shoulders.

"Oh yes," Draco said as he lightly placed his hand on her shoulder. "If you ladies don’t mind," he said as he pulled Ginny with him to the door. "I’ll take my bride with me for a while," he added, his face alight with a smile.

"Are you two still planning to come back here?" Molly called as the couple slowly descended the stairs towards the Burrow’s small living room. Narcissa followed suit, closing the door gently.

"We’ll just go directly at the manor," Draco answered as they stopped before the fireplace. "I think it’s best if Virginia fix herself up there, less time consuming," he added as Ginny held the pot full of Floo powder before him. He then turned to her and smiled.

"You go first, honey," he said so kindly that Ginny nearly felt herself puking.

"I’ll see you later, Mother," Ginny said as she took a handful of the powder. "Please, do tell the others okay?" she said. When Molly nodded, Ginny waved goodbye and lightly blew the powder into to the fire. When the flames sparked green, she cleared her throat.

"Diagon Alley please," she said clearly and jumped into the flames.

"Mother, Mrs. Weasley?" Draco said.

"Yes, honey, I’ll see you later," said Narcissa with a nod.

"Take care." Molly called.

"Thank you," said Draco as he waved goodbye and blew some of the powder onto the flames. Then saying his destination, he leaped into the flames and disappeared from the living room.

==========

"Nasty way to travel, if you ask me," Draco quipped after a moment. He lightly brushed the soot off his suit. "Why did we have to use Floo powder anyway?" he asked as they started walking down the crowded street of Diagon Alley.

"Oh, I just knew it would annoy you," Ginny replied sarcastically. She tightened her cloak about her. "It’s getting colder and soon it’ll start to snow," she said to herself, looking at the clear sky. "I can’t believe its Christmas time once again." Great! She would be spending a bleak Christmas with Malfoy! She thought sarcastically.

"Okay, note taken: Apparate when with a Weasley," he said as they stopped before a shop called Goldberg’s Jewelry, completely unaware of the sarcastic thoughts in her head.

"You’re such a damn good liar," said Ginny after a moment. Draco turned to her in confusion. Noting the tone of her voice, he couldn’t exactly say if she was impressed or embittered about his supposed lying—well, if ever he lied, that is.

"Excuse me?" asked Draco with raised eyebrows. "Now I lied. About what, may I ask?"

Ginny looked at him in disbelief and shook her head. "I can’t believe you don’t know," she exclaimed with irritation.

"Well, I don’t know what you’re talking about," replied Draco impatiently. "Look, Virginia, we’re here to purchase wedding rings and not to play some stupid guessing game. Now if you have something bad to say about me, which I’m sure you have, then let’s have it out," he added. Then to his surprise, Ginny’s face went scarlet. He frowned.

Ginny upon noting the impatience written across his face, cleared her throat softly. She took a deep breath first before opening her mouth. "You told our parents," she started, "about— about having children."

"And that made me a liar?" he asked blandly.

"Yes!" Ginny said incredulously. "That was stupid! You very well knew that children are not included in our arrangement and there you were being all dreamy and giddy about having them in front of our parents!"

"Excuse me but I wasn’t at all dreamy and giddy," said Draco calmly.

"Even so, I can’t believe you gave them empty promises! You lied to them and— and--," she paused and took another deep breath. Finally she said, "I— what are we going to do then? There’s no doubt they’re going to, you know, expect some--" She stopped and shook her head tiredly. "Silly ass!"

At that, Draco crinkled his eyebrows and pretended to think. Then he turned to her and smiled. "If I recall, I said something about right timing," he replied. "And what if that right timing never comes because of the DIVORCE we’re going to get after two or three months? Surely they won’t expect us to give them grandchildren with that kind of scenario, right? Suffice it to say, I didn’t lie to them." Then he chuckled. "Really, Virginia, you worry too much."

Realizing he had a good point, Ginny turned to him and could do nothing but glare. Draco looked back at her, unfazed. He was used to being glared at anyway. To his surprise, Ginny shook her head and smiled sweetly.

"Look how filthy you are," she said as she took out her hankie, tip toed up at him and automatically began wiping the dirt off his face to which he submitted to like a little boy— much to his surprise.

"That’s sweet of you but really it isn’t necessary," said Draco as Ginny began to wipe hard, making his cheek sore. "Virginia, okay… that’s— that’s fine… stop it… "

Ginny smiled nastily as she pressed her hand harder. Draco let out a soft curse and forcefully took her hand away from his cheek. "That was totally immature," he said as his hand flew to his sore cheek. "Sweet but immature," he added, smirking unpleasantly.

"I don’t care what you think," she answered back, noting the red blot on his cheek with satisfaction.

He shook his head with exasperation. "I can’t believe I’m marrying a brat," he said as he opened the door for her. Ginny shot him a dark look upon hearing his obvious sarcasm.

"I can’t believe I’m marrying a Malfoy," said Ginny spitefully.

"You make it sound like it’s wrong marrying a Malfoy," said Draco as they made their way inside the shop. He then stopped behind the counter and eyed her lazily. "Be careful of what you say, Virginia," he drawled softly. "You don’t have a single idea on how it feels to be a Malfoy. You might like it."

At that, Ginny turned to him with the same half-lidded gaze. "That’s right, Malfoy," she said, her voice rich with rancor. "Keep telling yourself that."

"Just heed what I said," said Draco. "You might like it."

"I don’t like you now," spat Ginny blandly. "And there’s a big possibility that I never will. You know why? Because I don’t trust you."

Draco smirked. "I won’t bet on it, Virginia," he said, his voice low and raspy. "Because YOU don’t trust YOURSELF when you’re with me."

For a moment, she stopped, his statement catching her off guard. Ginny stared at him, the hated truth and acceptance sinking in. Yes, it wasn’t him. It was herself! She didn’t trust herself when she with him. She didn’t trust herself and what she was capable of doing when alone with him. She was just not in control of herself every time they were together, alone. But nevertheless she turned to him and smiled tauntingly. "Don’t try me, Malfoy," she said testily, trying her best to deny the disturbing realizations swimming inside her head. "I’m in total control when it comes to my life. I know what I like and I know what I don’t like. And right now, my brain is saying that I really don’t like you."

"Really?" he asked as he rang the bell for assistance, his arms resting on top of the glass display cabinets full of rings, jewelry and other precious stones. "It’s your brain talking and frankly I can’t blame it for saying that. That’s what it feels. But what about your—" he stopped and looked at her from head to foot instead, his eyes rich with unmistakable want and appreciation. When he saw Ginny blush, he chuckled softly. "You see," he said knowingly. "I’m barely touching you, Virginia."

Ginny swore mentally and narrowed her eyes. "Just don’t try me," she repeated, looking away and desperately suppressing the urge to give in, to wallow in the silver pools that promised her ‘sinful’ pleasures. "He’s just seducing you Virginia Weasley! Get a hold of yourself!" Her brain screamed. She really hated herself when he looked at her like that!

"You’re just too sure of yourself, aren’t you?"

Draco just smiled and shrugged. They stood there in a tension-filled silence, with Ginny taking in deep quick and calming but silent breaths, until a low voice rang inside the shop. The two looked up to see a middle-aged wizard in black robes with gold trimmings emerge from the storeroom.

"Ah, Mr. Malfoy," he greeted as he straightened his black, pointed hat. "Right on time, I see," he added, smiling pleasantly.

"Yes," Draco replied with a slight nod. Then he turned to Virginia casually, the sexual tension in the air immediately replaced with civility. "My fiancé, Virginia Weasley," he added, without even bothering to introduce him to her in return. It puzzled Ginny. But what puzzled her even more was when the wizard nodded as if he was actually expecting not to be introduced.

The wizard turned to her and smiled. "A pleasure Ms. Weasley," he greeted giving her a polite bow.

Ginny smiled and nodded, quite amazed at the show of courteousness before her, which she deemed as too much. She turned momentarily to Draco only to see the look of subtle impatience across his face as he studied the rings and other precious fineries before him with feigned interest. It was without a doubt that Draco was used to this kind of treatment. "So the Malfoy name still commands respect," Ginny thought as she brought her attention back at the wizard behind the counter, awaiting for her acknowledgment. But then, she couldn’t help but feel quite— good about it. For the first time in her life she felt important and if felt nice— it mortified her a little. So was this one of the benefits she would be getting? This was what he was talking about earlier? Good lord! If it was, then she must stop this at once! She could get used to this! Flashing out her friendliest smile, she finally said, "It’s so nice to meet you too," her voice light and cheerful. "Surely you do have a name, don’t you?" she added so buoyantly that made Draco frown slightly. The wizard looked at Draco’s disapproving reaction unsurely then back to Ginny.

"Daniel, Madam," he answered respectfully. "Daniel Lucas."

Ginny grinned. "Well then, Mr. Lucas," she said holding out her hand. "It’s a pleasure," she added as the man finally took her hand and shook it softly. "I do hope that you would help us pick out one of the finest rings you’ve got," she said as she took her hand back.

"Of- of course Madam," Daniel Lucas said, his eyes wide with surprise at the sudden show of familiarity.

Draco frowned with subtle irritation upon hearing the awed tone of the other man’s voice. His frowned deepened even more when he heard Ginny’s heartfelt thanks. He then cleared his throat noisily. "Virginia, we don’t have much time," he said, his voice tight.

Ginny turned to him momentarily. It was clear to her that he wasn’t pleased by her friendly attitude towards Daniel. She rolled her eyes. Geez! Really now! Malfoys! Who did they think they were? Gods? The masters of the universe? She then looked away from him and nodded. "So Mr. Lucas," she began as she turned her attention to the rings in the display glass cases below her arms. "We’re having a wedding a week from now. What do you recommend?" she asked.

Daniel frowned thoughtfully at first then proceeded to open the glass case. "Might I suggest," he began as he got a pair of gold bands from the lot, "these pair of rings— it is made from one hundred percent pure, soft golden horn of a Romanian Longhorn dragon," he continued as he handed the rings to the couple for inspection. "Quite uncommon, you see… its rarity value is high… since the number of Longhorns have fallen so low, making its golden horns as Class B Tradeable Material."

Ginny frowned as she studied the ring. It was really exquisite, its golden color giving out an uncommon sparkle, which was different and better compared to Muggle gold. But then, it got her thinking. If its rarity value was high and with the unusual beauty of the gold used then— she shook her head. No, she didn’t want to spend so much—

"It’s too plain," Draco said suddenly as he inspected the ring between his fingers. "Don’t you have anything else? Perhaps with a precious stone?" he asked as he put the ring down much to Ginny’s bewilderment.

Daniel nodded. "Ah yes, Mr. Malfoy," he said as he immediately took another pair of rings from the glass cabinet and handed it to them. Ginny’s eyes widened with wonder and natural female delight upon seeing the aesthetic design of the ring before her. It was made from pure gold, a gold better than the Longhorn since it glistened beautifully and brightly against the light. The stone at the middle, she noticed, was red and sparkling. She took a deep breath.

"That ring’s band," Daniel started, "is made with the Golden Snidget’s feathers. You may also notice the unusual sparkle of the stone in the center?"

"Yes," Draco murmured as he eyed the stone with interest.

"It’s actually from the Golden Snidget too, its ruby red eyes mixed with the iridescent pearly scales of the Antipodean Opaleye dragon. Of course, the rarity value is higher since Golden Snidgets are hard to come by these days plus the exceptional talent of a potion’s master," he supplied. Then he turned to Ginny. "Perhaps the Miss would like to give it a try?" he asked.

Draco turned to her. "Virginia?" he asked, his eyebrows raised in question.

Ginny turned to him then to the ring quite not sure. "I—I—" she stammered. Draco frowned with amusement upon seeing the overwhelmed expression on her face. Surely, she wasn’t thinking about the price, right? Other than he had already reached an agreement with Goldberg the other day with regards to the price-- He stifled a smile in spite of himself. Geez! Really now! Weasleys! Who did they think they were? Hopeless charity cases? They’d just struck it rich! If this was Blaise— he shook his head.

Ginny, upon seeing the look on Draco’s face, bit her lip. She then sighed. "Oh all right," she said and promptly slid the ring onto her left ring finger. A perfect fit. Ginny held her hand before her. "It’s beautiful…" she gushed. But then, she couldn’t possibly… she hastily took the ring off her finger.

"I prefer the other one," she forced herself to say.

Draco frowned. "Are you quite sure Virginia?" he asked. He picked up the other ring and held the two rings before her. "You prefer the one made from the Longhorn than the one made from the Snidget and the Antipodean Opaleye?" he added doubtfully.

"I would like the Longhorn better," she said nodding. "Buying this," she continued as she picked up the ring with the stone, "will just add to Charlie’s troubles," she finished as she forced herself to think about Charlie and his stupid, harmless dragons. Then she turned to Draco. "And besides, they’re supposed to be our wedding rings and wedding rings are just simple gold bands, right?"

Draco shrugged and turned to Daniel. "It’s Virginia’s final say," he said.

"Me?" she croaked.

"Of course," Draco replied as if she was insane. "That’s what you women commonly do, right?" he added as he impatiently looked at his pocket watch. "So what will it be?"

Ginny looked at longingly at the Snidget rings. Although she would have liked it very much to choose them, the thought of this kind of ‘marriage’ prevented her to do so. She would have to return the ring after the divorce eventually. She took a deep breath. "The Longhorn gold bands, please," she said finally.

Draco nodded. "As the lady wishes," he said to Daniel.

"Very well, Mr. Malfoy," said Daniel as he carefully placed the rings in their respective boxes. After wrapping them in little parcels, he handed the rings to Draco, who in turn pocketed them and nodded once at his direction.

"It was nice doing business with you," said Draco airily before turning away from him.

"Thank you, Mr. Malfoy," replied Daniel cordially. "Until next time."

"Thank you, Mr. Lucas," Ginny quipped cheerfully.

"It was nothing, Madam," he said. Ginny smiled at him one last time before turning around and walking towards the exit.

Once outside, Ginny turned to Draco with disapproval. "I resent that," she said suddenly.

Draco stopped in his tracks and turned to him with disbelief. "I beg your pardon, but I believe I should be the one saying that," he said coldly.

She frowned stopping as well, "Whatever for?" asked Ginny.

Draco just looked at her as his reply. After a moment, he shook his head and continued walking briskly. Ginny immediately took big, quick steps. "Excuse me, but you just said

‘That’s what you women commonly do!’"

"So?" said Draco without bothering to stop.

"And I resent that!"

At that, Draco finally stopped. "Isn’t it true?" he said. "That’s what you women commonly do. That’s where you’re good at and—"

"I completely disagree with that," Ginny fiercely declared. "I simply won’t take that! You think that I— we—"

"That has been the sorry course of nature, Virginia," he said with exasperation. "Men do the earning while women do the spending. I just don’t see the big deal about this!" Draco exclaimed.

"Big deal!" Ginny exclaimed back as she threw her hands in the air. "Big deal! Of course it’s a big deal to me! You think that I can’t— that all I think of--"

"Just spare me the feminist bullshit crap, Virginia," said Draco tiredly. "Look, we’re arguing and this is stupid and I—"

"No," she said firmly. "You will think differently of me, Malfoy, because that’s who I am. You will not go on and think that I’m like your ‘other’ women who can’t think of anything but money, of what you can give them and getting their hands inside your pants! I am not like them! I am not like that! I am more than that!"

He stopped in surprise and looked at her quite oddly upon hearing her words. For the first time in his life, he couldn’t say anything sarcastic or nasty— no woman, in his whole life— he stared at her, his eyes wide with disbelief, partly with awe. "Well if you insist, then so be it," was all he could think of saying, his voice testy. Then he started walking. "You should consider changing your ‘common’ attitude, Virginia. You’ll be a Malfoy soon," he said after a moment, referring to the incident back at the jewelry shop.

Getting his meaning, Ginny frowned at him. "Who do you think you are?" she asked spitefully.

Draco turned to her. "I’m Draco Edward Malfoy."

"So?"

"Malfoys don’t go around being all chummy with-- strangers,"

"No, you’re too kind," said Ginny sardonically. "Why don’t you just say: ‘Malfoys don’t go around being all chummy with COMMON people?’ Surely, that one’s more appropriate, don’t you think? It suits you," she added. Then she smiled cynically. "May I remind you that you’re going to marry a ‘common’ lady, Malfoy?"

"I will not stand here and take all this," he finally declared, walking away from her.

"What’s the matter, Malfoy?" said Ginny nastily, following him. "Truth hurts?"

At that, Draco finally stopped and turned to her once again, his face showing cold fury. "You don’t understand anything, Virginia," he said, his voice soft and dangerous. "People aren’t bothered by that attitude. Didn’t you notice that back there, what bothered Daniel was your overly friendly attitude and not mine? People know and accept the fact that the Malfoys act like that. Why? Because people accept the fact that we’re different from them. We are expected to act that way. That attitude has maintained the respect the Malfoy name commands and I have no intention of damaging that during my duration as the future head of the Malfoy clan. If you’re going to be a Malfoy, even for a short period of time, you’d better check your disposition."

Ginny smirked and crossed her arms over her chest. "You’re wrong," she said, raising her chin defiantly. "Mr. Lucas wasn’t bothered. It was surprise and awe that I saw in his face. He was surprised and awed to see that a would-be-Malfoy was capable of being nice and friendly, so much unlike you or your family. And you might want to think twice when it comes to that ‘respect’ thing, you know. Because that kind of attitude does not command respect it commands fear. For all you know, those people like Mr. Lucas really hate you or your whole blood line," she answered back. Then she shook her head and looked at him as if he was hopeless. "Now I completely understand why you don’t have any friends, Malfoy. You think you’re somebody else, someone more special, someone more superior. Well, I have some shocking news for you. You’re no different from everybody else. And even if you were, then I wouldn’t call it being special. You’re different because nobody could be as cruel or as nasty or as cold-hearted as you, " she said, her voice dripping with poison. "And if you do have friends, it’s no wonder why you can’t keep them at all."

With her last statement, Draco just stood there silently, unable to say anything. Instead, he eyed her with narrowed and angered eyes. Surprisingly, it was the truth. He didn’t have any friends. Crabbe and Goyle, the Zabinis, Pansy Parkinson—they weren’t friends—he didn’t even know what they were. And with the awful truth came the pain-- her words stung him and his pride, much to his surprise. And the way she was looking at him— as if she was feeling sorry for him, pitying him. He mentally swore. He never felt so angry in all his life!

Ginny looked at him astounded, at a loss for words, baffled at the harmful words that came out of her lips. After that short, hurtful speech she gave him she knew she had said too much. It horrified her to think that she could be as offensive and as horrid as-- She bit her lip. "Draco, I— I’m sor—"

"I have other business to attend to," he said abruptly, not letting her finish. "It’ll take me a while so just go on ahead of me to the manor to give yourself ample time to prepare." And with that, Draco immediately turned around and walked away from her.

Ginny stood there numbly as she looked after his disappearing figure dolefully. She was feeling so miserable and wretched that she hadn’t noticed where Draco had gone.

Knockturn Alley.

==========

"You think you’re somebody else, someone more special! Nobody could be as cruel or nasty or as cold-hearted as you"

So that was what she thought of him. Draco let out a curse as he made his way silently in the manor’s second floor hall, his booted feet making padding noises against the carpeted floor, his black robes billowing behind him. So what about it? He thought spitefully. He was Draco Malfoy and it wasn’t new, right? People often thought about him that way. But then again, why did he feel so—bothered? Why had it troubled him to learn what she thought about him? Then it struck him. It bothered him because Virginia had done something nobody had done before. She’d told him everything that she had thought about him to his face. She practically threw those words at him with a straight face. The exchange of insults with her brother or Granger or Potter was no match for what she had done. She had told him the truth and aimed for his pride. And it… hurt.

He stopped upon reaching the door to Virginia’s room, his hands tightening against the velvet box he was holding. He couldn’t help but let the stinging words ring inside his head over and over again, drowning the festive noises just below him and at that moment, he reluctantly reflected about what he was before. He remembered clearly, strutting around Hogwarts like he owned it, making Potter’s life miserable due to an unexplained insecurity, calling Granger a ‘Mudblood’ without batting an eyelash, spitting Weasley’s financial deficiency at his face with unhidden gaiety, and Virginia… Virginia…

"Potter, you’ve got yourself a girlfriend!"

"I don’t think Potter liked your Valentine much!"

He blinked. So he was terrible. So He was cruel. Draco shook his head. But they didn’t know him. They didn’t know anything about him, so why should he care about what they thought? She thought him cold-hearted? Then good riddance to her! He didn’t care! If that was what she thought about him then that was what she was going to get. And with that assumption, he let out a soft snort and opened the door before him only to hear a noisy clutter and a soft gasp of surprise inside.

"Don’t you know how to knock?" said Ginny finally as she momentarily stood up to retrieve the brush from the floor. Then sitting down once again before her vanity mirror, she looked at his reflection, her expression changing from annoyance to that of being uncertain.

Draco looked back at her, not saying anything. He let his eyes roam to her straight her red hair, neatly parted at the side with a single sapphire-studded clip, the red coiling tips resting gently on her shoulders, on her back and on her neck. He then let his gaze wander to her face and was quite pleased to see that she hadn’t used any make-up at all to hide the row of freckles across her nose, then to her lips, glossy and slightly rouged, shouting out unspoken delights. Reluctantly and as if having a mind of its own, his eyes than went to the champagne-colored gown on her, accentuating the crown of red on her head. He swallowed hard upon noting the fitted bodice of the dress against her waist, its flowing, silken layers gently emphasizing the delicate curves of her body. He looked at her reflection only to notice the modest cut of her off-the-shoulder gown, granting him a glimpse of her creamy chest.

"Beautiful,"

thought Draco, all the bitterness he had felt a while ago disappearing. He then made his way towards her, his eyes not leaving her face in the mirror.

Ginny, upon feeling his scrutiny, quickly cast her eyes down. She suddenly found her brush interesting as she stared at it, biting her lower lip. What did Draco think of her? About her looks? Her outfit? Did he think her beautiful? Then she frowned. Why should she care anyway? She then looked up when she felt Draco’s presence standing beside her. She was about to speak up when a soft mew suddenly echoed inside her borrowed chamber.

"What was that?" Draco asked. He looked down only to see a white cat slowly emerging from under the bed. He turned to her and frowned. "Virginia?"

"He’s my new cat," answered Ginny.

"I know," said Draco impatiently as the cat started stroking itself against his pant leg, purring with content. Draco gritted his teeth with irritation as he took a step away.

"Really now, do you have to—"

"Oh, he likes you," said Ginny.

"How can you even be sure that it’s a he?" Draco asked staring at the cat’s snow-white fur then to its unusual blue, limpid eyes. "What an unusual cat," mused Draco.

"Oh I just know," said Ginny as the cat finally decided to tear itself away from Draco to climb and rest on top of her bed. "I just bought her a while ago, when you left me," she added. Draco’s face darkened. She sighed.

"Draco," she began, looking back at his reflection. An unexpected sigh escaped her lips upon noting how good he looked. He was wearing his formal family robes, black in color (as usual) with silver linings on the side. Underneath his robe was his white buttoned-up shirt, which was neatly tucked inside his black trousers. Ginny never did get the chance to look at his shoes but she was so sure that they had cost over a thousand galleons each. He had his left hand inside his trouser pocket and he was standing there with smooth, casual arrogance and he looked so, so— rich, almost intimidating. Ginny took a deep breath, "about—about what happened earlier. I—"

"Virginia," Draco suddenly called, interrupting her, his left hand leaving his pocket. He then held the velvet box up for her and deftly flipped the top lid open to reveal a gold chain with a serpent pendant dangling from it, which finally shutting her up. He then gently brushed her hair aside. "Grandfather will be expecting to see this," he said as he firmly locked the chain into place.

Ginny’s fingers immediately flew up to her chest upon feeling the cold metal of the flat-surfaced pendant against her skin. She looked at the pendant’s reflection only to notice the pair of ruby-red eyes of the serpent staring back at her. "It’s beautiful," she whispered, looking at the unusual sparkle of the serpent’s eyes, disregarding the fact that it was a snake and not some tear-shaped diamond dangling from her neck.

"Mother gave it to me to give to you," said Draco as he stared at their reflections in the vanity mirror. "It was traditionally given to all the Malfoy women before their wedding day. That is the reason why I didn’t give you an engagement ring."

Ginny didn’t say anything as she lightly fingered the necklace against her chest. Surprisingly, there was something about the necklace that made her feel like it belonged to her, like it was really a part of her. It was a weird and unexplainable feeling but at that moment, she felt as if she would just go mad if Draco should decide to take the necklace back.

Draco noted the wonder and admiration written on Ginny’s face. "Well, who wouldn’t," he thought. "That’s an antique necklace and an expensive one too, with the eyes made with the Snidget’s. He then let out a nasty chuckle, the bitter feelings surging up again full force. "Of course, after our divorce, you do understand that you have to return it," he couldn’t resist saying.

At that, Ginny looked at his reflection darkly. Then after a moment she smiled sweetly. "Of course," she said delicately. "Anyway, I can AFFORD lots of this after our divorce, right?" And with that, she stood up and made her way towards the door, her dress swishing provocatively behind her. She was, no doubt, on her way to the ballroom with or without him.

Draco gritted his teeth as he went after her. He just couldn’t believe it! She had had the last word! Again! He swore as he hastily went down the grand staircase, catching up with her and feeling quite stupid. Ginny, upon feeling him beside her, stopped. "Please," she said giving him a twisted smile, "do find me irresistible just for tonight."

"I should be the one asking you that," said Draco sarcastically as he offered his arm. When Ginny took it, he turned to her. "Shall we?" he asked flatly.

"Do I have any choice?" she replied acidly.

Accepting her answer, Draco nodded and led her towards the ballroom.

==========

"Professor Dumbledore!" Vladimir boomed merrily as an aged wizard popped up from the ballroom’s huge doors. Dumbledore let out a smile upon seeing Vlad zigzagging his way towards him. "It’s so good you made it!" Vlad added loudly against the crowd of people around him and the loud orchestra behind him.

"Vladimir Malfoy II!" Dumbledore said as Vladimir shook his hand so vigorously that his body nearly shook from the force. He let out a chuckle. "Still the stalwart boy I remember," he added.

"And you’re still breathing," said Vladimir good-naturedly. "How do you do it, old man?"

Dumbledore laughed. "By being always happy, Vladimir. By being always happy," he replied. He then looked past Vladimir. "I see that Headmistress McGonagall’s already here," he added as he saw the tall and straight form of the strict looking woman in one corner, champagne in hand and conversing pleasantly with a group of new Hogwarts teachers. "You have invited almost everybody, I suppose?" he asked surveying the huge crowd of wizards and witches inside the ballroom. He smiled when he met Cornelius Fudge’s eyes.

"Of course!" Vladimir exclaimed. "It’s my grandson’s engagement party," he added as he took two glasses of champagne from a passing tray.

"Ah yes," Dumbledore answered as he took the glass his old student offered him. "And where’s the young Draco and his fiancé may I ask?" he added looking around.

"Probably he went upstairs to get Virginia," replied Vladimir. He then paused and took a sip of his champagne. He was about to open his mouth when the loud voice of his butler rang inside the crowded ballroom.

"Draco Malfoy and Virginia Weasley!"

"Now smile," hissed Draco as he prepared to enter the room.

"I AM smiling," hissed Ginny back as she followed Draco. As all eyes turned to them, Ginny let out a smile.

"Now prepare for the worse," whispered Draco against her ear. He smiled charmingly as people began approaching them to express their congratulations.

"What do you mean?" Ginny whispered back while her eyes busily scanned her surroundings. Indeed, Vladimir really did put up a lot just for this! Ginny’s eyes widened with wonder and delight upon seeing little blue and white colored cool flames magically dancing around, giving the ballroom an enchanted and elegant ambiance. There were a bunch of bewitched trays floating everywhere, serving champagne and little finger foods. On one corner stood the orchestra and on the other corner the biggest refreshment table Ginny had ever seen. It seemed it had all of Hogsmeade on it, with every food entrée arranged beautifully, so beautifully that it looked so appetizing. She then tore her eyes away from the table only to look at the elegantly dressed crowd before her, dancing and laughing. "Everybody seems to be… rich," thought Ginny upon seeing the row of mouthwatering silks and satins before her.

"You’ll see," was all he said upon seeing his grandfather who had excused himself from Dumbledore and was making his way towards them. Ginny smiled in his direction.

"Ah, Virginia," he began as he took her hand and lightly kissed it. "I see you already have the necklace?" he asked, finally letting go. It was clear that he was pleased to see the necklace around her neck.

"I belong to Draco now," she said chuckling.

Vladimir laughed. "I see," he said. Then he turned to Draco. "Your guests are waiting, boy," he said.

Draco nodded. "Yes, grandfather," he replied and whisked Virginia away with him.

As it turned out, Draco was right. It was the worst night of Virginia’s life. Other than the fact that this was her ‘engagement-to-Draco’ party, Draco dragged her around the huge ballroom, introducing her to everybody there till she felt dizzy and tired. It seemed that Vladimir Malfoy had invited all his Hogwarts friends and it really surprised her to see that Draco knew almost each and everyone of them. This isn’t fun anymore. She thought. Her feet were already aching and her mouth was feeling sore from all the smiling—

"Virginia, I want you to meet the Thornhills. Angelo's grandmother was an exchange student from Durmstrang. She was my Grandfather's potion's partner back at Hogwarts, " said Draco pleasantly as he nodded at the direction of a tall brown-haired man and woman whom were both smiling. Ginny forced out a smile at the 34^th couple before her.

"How do you do?" she asked politely.

"How did you do it?" Angelo Thornhill asked chuckling. Ginny frowned at him in confusion. "I can't believe Draco dragged me from Germany just to witness this!"

"I beg your pardon?" she asked.

Draco laughed. "Now, now Angelo," he started. "Don’t start with my fiancé," he warned.

"You’re one bloody amazing woman, I see," Angelo said ignoring Draco. "To be able to trap this man into submission requires great skill and charm, mind you."

"Then perhaps I have both of them, don‘t you think?" Ginny replied pleasantly, causing Angelo to laugh louder.

"You beware, my good man," said the brown-haired man to Draco who was wearing his usual charming smile. "That kind of woman surely knows what she wants," he added meaningfully.

Draco chuckled. "I know, and she wants me," he said as he put his arms around her bare shoulders for effect. Instantly, Ginny felt little electric bolts sparking inside her. "I’m sure with a woman as beautiful as Virginia, I wouldn’t dream of looking at anybody else," he quipped.

At that kind of answer, Angelo’s eyes widened. "You really are bleedin’ good!" he exclaimed at Virginia. "Draco Malfoy? Saying that? I must be dreaming! What did you feed him?"

"Better believe it, man!" Draco said. Then looking past him, he smiled apologetically "If you’ll excuse me, I think I saw my fiancé’s family and my mother over there?" he said looking at the eight five redheads and one blonde head near the orchestra.

"Of course," said Angelo with a nod. "It was nice to meet you, Virginia," he added.

"Likewise," said Ginny before Draco swept her away towards her family. Upon reaching the orchestra, something small and brown suddenly broke into a run.

"Aunt Wheezy!" Sylvia squealed as she slammed herself against Ginny’s dress. Ginny let out a chuckle and picked the little girl up.

"Hi Sylvia," she cooed. Then she looked at her parents. "Mum, Dad," she said politely. For a second she turned her eyes to Percy, together with his wife Jane, who was conversing pleasantly with Narcissa while Bill and Charlie were busy arguing about dragons and goblins. "It seems that Bill and Charlie didn’t bring their families with them," she surmised. Then she frowned, "But where are Ron and Hermione?"

"Hi honey," Molly said as she lightly gave her a kiss on the cheek. Then turning to Draco, she let out a friendly smile while Arthur Weasley offered his hand to him.

"Good evening," Draco greeted as he shook it firmly.

Arthur nodded. "Nice to see you again," he said. He then turned to Ginny and smiled. "You look beautiful honey."

"Thank you," Ginny beamed. She then turned to Draco only to see him greeting his mother and shaking hands with her brothers and offering them champagne. Then turning back to her mother, she frowned. "Where’s Hermione?" she asked.

"Oh, Hermione’s over there," Molly answered gesturing towards the group of people milling just beside the refreshment table. Ginny smiled with satisfaction and excitement upon realizing that they were her Hogwarts friends. "Ron’s with her too," her mother added. Then seeing her excited smile, Molly chuckled. "Go ahead, honey," she said.

Ginny nodded, gave her Sylvia and, without thinking about what Draco might say, went towards the bunch of Gryffindor wizards and witches laughing and conversing merrily. Her mood surprisingly lifted upon seeing the familiar faces before her. "Hi guys!" she exclaimed brightly upon reaching them. "Enjoying yourselves?"

"Ginny!" Everybody exclaimed. Ginny looked at the faces before her and grinned. There were Lavender Brown, Parvati Patil, Neville Longbottom, Colin Creevey, Seamus Finnigan, her twin brothers, Lee Jordan, Dean Thomas, Ron and Hermione and several other Gryffindors.

"You look wonderful!" Hermione finally said, giving her a kiss on the cheek. Ginny chuckled and took a glass of champagne.

"Thanks," she said.

"You look beautiful, Gin," said Fred as he quickly made his way towards her.

"Yeah, right," added George as they took her by her shoulders and began shaking her playfully.

"Fred! George!" Ginny exclaimed with displeasure. "Stop it!"

"Nice to see you, Ginny!" Lee said with a laugh as Fred and George finally let go of her.

"Love to chat, but can’t," Fred quickly said pulling George with him. "But you do look nice, Gin! Honest!" he called out while walking away from her.

"Congratulations!" Lee and George called as they followed Fred outside the ballroom.

"Why did they leave?" Ginny asked quite soberly.

Ron snorted. "Probably went off to do some prank or something," he replied, his voice hopeful. At that, he earned a disapproving look from Hermione.

"Ginny! Long time no see!" Parvati exclaimed merrily as she made her way towards her. "How are you?"

"Oh I’m fine," replied Ginny.

"Oh my, that’s a very beautiful gown you’ve got there!" Lavender gushed as she lightly touched the soft material of her dress.

Ginny chuckled. "Still the same, Lavender," she replied. "So, are you going out with someone?"

At that, Neville’s face turned a deep shade of red while Lavender blushed pink. Ron and the rest of the Gryffindors gasped with surprise.

"Really?" Hermione asked Lavender with wide brown eyes. "Neville?"

"Why haven’t I heard about it?" Parvati asked, not pleased. She turned to Lavender, "Are you my best friend or what? I told you about when we, I and Colin, started going out."

"Really now, Parvati," said Ellen, another younger Gryffindor, "don’t you find Colin’s one-year age difference rather disturbing?"

"Well, age doesn’t matter, am I right, Ellen?" Colin asked as he put his arms purposely around Parvati’s shoulders.

The men, in turn, hooted and laughed. "Go, Neville!" Dean exclaimed clapping him on the back.

"Now that’s something!" Ron said laughing.

"Wow!" Neville exclaimed suddenly. " I remember I forgot something inside the uh— um---," He then quickly made his way towards the doors without finishing.

"Oh poor Neville," Ginny said, looking after his disappearing figure. Then turning to the men, she frowned slightly. "That was not nice," she said while taking another glass of champagne.

"Oh just let him be," Ron said, shaking his head. "He’ll come around."

"I- I just remembered," Lavender suddenly piped up. "I need to do something." Then without bothering to explain further, she quickly left the group and made her way towards the door.

"Ooh, what was that all about?" Colin asked smiling impishly. Parvati slapped him lightly on the arm as a warning.

"I don’t know guys," said Hermione, "but I have a daughter to take care of," she added, looking at Sylvia who was currently trying to reach something from the refreshment table. "If you’ll excuse me?" she said and with that, she turned around and walked away from them.

Ginny then looked at the remaining people before her. She was about to excuse herself and return to Draco when suddenly Seamus flashed a smile at her.

"Ginny Weasley," he said as he walked towards her. Ginny smiled as Seamus gave her a hug.

"Seamus," she said as he finally let go and stared at him. She was so busy looking at his smile that she hadn’t noticed that Ron, Dean and the rest drifted off to meet other people while Colin asked Parvati for a dance, finally leaving her alone with him. "I can’t believe I broke up with this guy," she thought absorbing his handsome smile. She held his arm. "How are you?"

"I’m fine," he replied. "And you?"

"I’m fine, too," said Ginny, smiling. "So," she began as she looked at him expectantly.

"Malfoy’s grandfather seemed to be friendly," Seamus said, looking towards Vladimir’s direction. Ginny looked too only to see Draco’s grandfather politely asking McGonagall for a dance. She chuckled and turned to Seamus once again.

"So it seems," she said. "Quite a nice fellow, if you ask me. I heard that he used to go to Hogwarts too."

"Different from Malfoy?"

At that, Ginny’s pleasant feelings were suddenly floored. She looked down soberly. Upon seeing her miserable reaction, Seamus sighed. "Look, Gin," he started apologetically. "I’m sorry but to tell you honestly, everybody was quite shocked when they received your invitation, saying about your sudden engagement to— to Malfoy! The shock increased even more when they received a warm welcome from Vladimir, quite unexpected, you see."

"So— what are you trying to get at?" Ginny asked.

"We are happy for you, we truly are! But—"

"But what?"

Seamus frowned as he weighed his answer. "Surely, you can’t blame us—but, Malfoy?" he asked shaking his head with disbelief.

Ginny sighed. "Oh don’t worry, I’m used to it," she said bleakly.

Seamus let out a chuckle as he turned towards the dance floor. "It has been years hasn’t it?" he asked. He then chuckled again upon seeing Colin bowing and apologizing and Parvati hopping around with one foot. It was beyond doubt that Colin had stepped on her accidentally. He then turned back to Ginny. "Until now I couldn’t stop wondering what might have happened if we hadn’t broken up."

"Seamus I—"

"No, it’s fine," He interrupted softly. "Actually I was quite glad when I heard that Harry asked you out after we broke up. I know that he’s the only who can make you happy."

"Seamus, you made me happy too," said Ginny softly.

"I did?" he asked. When Ginny nodded, he let out a soft chuckle. "I don’t know," he began shaking his head. "This bothers me, you know. I would’ve accepted the fact of this, you’re going to marry Harry, but this—" He stopped and took a deep breath.

"You think it’s insulting?" Ginny asked, looking at him straight in the eye.

"To tell you honestly, yes," said Seamus, throwing up his hands. "Look, Ginny, I loved you and when Harry asked you out, I accepted the fact that he was a worthy opponent or something like that. I mean, besides being a Gryffindor, Harry’s the boy who lived, captain of the Quidditch team, Puddlemere United’s seeker— and I couldn’t really blame you for choosing him over me, but now, with Malfoy—" He paused and turned to Ginny. "What does Malfoy have? Compared to Harry or me or—"

"Oh he has 262 million galleons,"

thought Ginny. "Look Seamus," she said. "I—I—chose Draco because I— I love him, all right?" she forced out. "I know that he’s an insensitive bastard most of the time and he’s in Slytherin and he cheated at Quidditch but really, deep inside, he’s— he’s a good man."

With that, Seamus finally smiled. "So you do love him."

"Yes," said Ginny, feeling terribly sicker by the minute.

"Well, it seems like I can’t do anything about it," said Seamus with resignation.

"Well, I’ll tell you what," said Ginny while taking his empty glass from him and placing it, together with hers, on top of a passing tray. "Have this dance with me and I’ll see about reconsideration," she continued chuckling as the orchestra began to play another waltz.

At that, Seamus laughed. "Prat," he said fondly but nevertheless he took her hand and led her to the dance floor.

==========

"Draco Malfoy."

Draco stopped upon hearing the sultry voice inside his head. He turned around only to see a woman as tall as him standing just near the veranda door, just five meters away from him. His eyes suddenly widened upon seeing the familiar black, shiny hair, and the pair of violet eyes boring through him. He then turned his attentions back to Bill and Charlie who were now arguing something about Muggle technology.

"Excuse me, gentlemen," he said apologetically at the two older Weasley’s before him. "But I must see to someone."

"Of course," Bill said quickly.

"Don’t let us keep you," added Charlie. At that, Draco bowed his head slightly and made his way towards the awaiting woman. Upon reaching her, he raised his eyebrows.

"Rebecca Fairfax," he said, lifting her hand and softly planting a kiss on it.

The woman smiled. "How did you know?" she asked.

"I just know," replied Draco. "There could only be one Fairfax woman now."

"How can you be sure? This is the wizarding world after all. Anything is possible," she said, her voice soft. "Maybe I’m her. We’re completely identical, you know."

Draco looked at her and smiled charmingly. "Not quite," he replied as his other hand flew up only to brush her black mane away from her neck. The woman closed her eyes momentarily as she felt the quick but gentle touch. "Your twin doesn’t have that," he finally said, looking at the brown birthmark on her neck, a little below her right ear.

"You have sharp eyes, I see," said Rebecca. "For you to see it from a distance."

"Actually, I didn’t see it," said Draco, smirking. "I just knew it was you." At that, Rebecca laughed softly, accepting the answer.

"Nice to see you again, Draco Malfoy," she said as Draco finally let go. She then turned towards the packed dance floor. "So, she’s the one?" she asked, looking in Ginny’s direction.

Draco looked as well only to see Ginny laughing and twirling against Seamus Finnigan’s arms. "Yes," he finally replied. "How did you know, may I ask?"

Rebecca smirked. "The necklace," she answered, turning back to him. "So how many years has it been?" she asked softly.

Draco took a sharp intake of breath. "Fourteen," he replied.

"So it seems," Rebecca replied. Then upon noticing Draco’s tightening expression, her face softened. "You very well know that Bianca would like me to be here, to just check on you," she added.

"I know."

And with that, Rebecca smiled. "Well, it’s seems like I'll see you around, Draco," she said. She looked at Ginny then back to him. "You know, Bianca will be very upset if she sees this, if she sees you."

Draco nodded. "I know," he said again, his eyes not leaving Ginny. "But it’s too late for me," he added, finally turning back to her.

"Don’t be too sure," was all Rebecca said before taking her wand out and Disapparating before him. Before Draco could ask what she had meant, she was gone. He swore softly as unwanted memories began crashing at him once again. He closed his eyes momentarily, his fingers going up to his temples. "Bianca," the name played over and over again inside his head. "What did Rebecca mean by it?" Suddenly, he didn’t feel good. He had a sudden urge to be alone. He was about to make his way to the veranda to get some fresh air when a familiar scent reached him. He turned around only to feel the soft lips of Blaise Zabini immediately landing on top of his. His eyes widened as he instinctively pulled away.

"Blaise!" Draco cried with displeasure. "Are you out of your mind?" he asked as his eyes frantically went to his grandfather. He then breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing his grandfather talking to Snape, too preoccupied to even pay him much attention.

"I’m hurt you know," said Blaise pouting up at him. "Have your feelings changed?"

As his reply, Draco just stared at her. He willed his mouth to lie, to say no just like before but surprisingly, he couldn’t do it. He couldn’t even lie. "What are you doing here?" he asked instead.

"I received your invitation, Draco. Seems like I’m the only Slytherin in here, other than you," answered Blaise, fanning an envelope before her and looking around. "Thought I’d come to see my rival personally," she supplied delicately. "I also think your grandfather’s being deliberately annoying too."

"Well, it was good to see you," said Draco as he prepared to leave, but Blaise placed a hand on top of his arm, stopping him.

"What’s eating you, Draco dear? Not happy to see me?" she asked softly. Draco frowned mentally upon seeing Blaise’s well-manicured hand resting on top of his arm. "Seems like you need—" she paused and let her hand travel inside Draco’s robes. His eyes widened slightly upon feeling her fingers lightly stroking his chest, unmindful of the thick material of his shirt. His eyes narrowed dangerously, much to Blaise’s pleasure, "some—release," she finally finished, looking at him meaningfully.

Draco’s eyes momentarily scanned her. As usual, Blaise looked really stunning. She was wearing a red gown, with just a tight red corset for a bodice. The corset had a low neckline, giving him a full view of her generous bosom, which gently rose up and down with her every breath. He then smiled charmingly. "Blaise," he began, "not now." He then looked away from her.

Blaise’s smile turned to a scowl. She dropped her hand and turned towards Ginny with spite. "It’s her, isn’t it?" she asked shrilly.

Draco let out a sigh. Surprisingly, he felt tired. "No, it’s not her," he replied.

"Then what?" she demanded. "This is just all about the contract, right? You’ll get a divorce soon?"

"Yes."

Blaise momentarily looked at him. Upon seeing the emotionless statement on his face, she gave a satisfied smile. "Good," she said. Then turning to Ginny’s direction once again, she gave a disgusted snort. "Really, Draco honey. Could you be more insulting?" she asked.

"What do you mean?" Draco asked. He looked up only to see his grandfather looking at him meaningfully. Upon meeting his eyes, he then nodded.

"I mean, she’s too plain! I expected someone, you know, prettier! More like someone of OUR standards," said Blaise. "Just look at her! No taste, no style, no conversation at all!" She then laughed saucily and turned to him once again. "Well, what did you expect from a Weasley, right? I mean, really, you could’ve gotten someone more— more— beautiful than that— that—girl! Pardon for the word but really you can hardly call her a woman! From the looks of it, that girl’s probably hasn’t gotten out of the box yet, if you know what I mean."

"Then it is quite fortunate that I have to marry her and not you," said Draco without thinking. There was a note of irritation in his voice. It was clear that he was getting impatient with Blaise’s nonsensical chatter. Then turning to her, he smiled apologetically. "If you’ll excuse me, I believe my grandfather would like to have a word with me." And without waiting for her answer, Draco quickly turned around and made his way towards the ballrooms exit, leaving Blaise alone looking after him with furious disbelief.

==========

"So where would you have the wedding?" Parvati asked.

"At Draco’s manor," said Ginny, looking at Draco and Blaise. She frowned slightly. Just then, Parvati let out a little cry of surprise. Ginny tore her eyes away from the two and turned to her.

"What was that?" she asked looking at Parvati’s near-to-fainting reaction. "What’s the matter?"

"H—Ha—" Parvati began.

"Parvati, please?" Ginny said with exasperation.

"Ha—Harry’s— Harry’s here, Ginny," she finally said. It was without a doubt that everybody knew of her and Harry’s ‘thing.’ "I didn’t—I wasn’t expecting—"

At the mention of Harry’s name, Ginny quickly whirled around only to see him walking towards Ron. Her eyes widened as she felt her heart dropping to her stomach. Her eyes followed him as he stopped to talk to Ron and Hermione, his usual grinning face set in a grave expression. He looked so— so tired! She had dreaded this night. She finally tore her eyes away from him and looked frantically around for Draco. Upon seeing him nowhere, she mentally swore. Oh, where was the git when you needed him? Suddenly, Harry looked up. Their eyes met.

"I think--," said Parvati as she began upon feeling the tension in the air. She slowly backed away from her upon noting Harry making his way towards them, "that surely—you’d like it very much to be left alone?" And with that, she turned around and quickly walked away from her.

"Hello, Ginny," said Harry.

Ginny turned to him uncertainly. She bit her lip and stared at him, her eyes roaming from his usual messy hair then to the lightning scar on his forehead. She reluctantly looked at his deep green eyes behind his glasses and found herself lost for words. Harry, upon noting her uneasiness, cleared his throat.

"Can I have a word with you privately?" he asked softly.

At that, Ginny nodded. "Of course," she answered, thinking that Harry at least deserved some explanation. "Would—would you like to go to the veranda?"

Harry nodded and with that, Ginny turned around and led the way towards the veranda’s doors. Once outside, away from the crowded ballroom, Ginny took a deep breath and looked up into the starless sky. Harry then placed himself beside her, resting his hands against the stone balustrade. He looked at her face and sighed.

"I saw you earlier, down at Diagon Alley," said Harry finally. "You were just outside Goldberg’s Jewelry."

Ginny just looked at him as her answer. Harry then raked his fingers through his hair and let out another sigh.

"It’s true then?" he said.

"About what?" Ginny asked frowning up at him. Harry, in turn, let his eyes roam from her face to her chest only to see the gold necklace, the serpent staring back at him warily as though it was alive. His eyes went back to her face.

"When I first received your letter, I actually had a hard time believing it. No, I didn't really believe it. I thought that it was just a prank or something, you know, from Fred or George," said Harry instead. He turned to her. "I came here just to—to—see with my own eyes—"

"Harry, I’m so sorry."

"Why, Ginny?"

Ginny cast her eyes down as her answer. When she didn’t say anything, Harry lifted her face up at him. He stared into her eyes, till she felt herself melting. But there was something inside that told her this was wrong— this was—

"I love you, Gin," he said as he slowly brought his face down to hers.

Ginny closed her eyes as she let Harry kiss her, desperately wanting to know if she was doing the right thing, if she still had the same feelings for Harry, if she still loathed Draco. She waited for the familiar but delicious burning sensation but to her surprise and confusion, nothing came. She then let her hands travel on his back, deepening the kiss even more, trying to get her feelings for Harry back again. When she felt his hands wrapping around her waist, pulling her closer, a feeling of panic rose within her. And before she knew it, she immediately pulled away.

"H- Harry I can’t—"

"You don’t love Draco, Ginny. I know it," said Harry firmly. "I can feel it. I can feel something is terribly wrong here."

Ginny stared at him. She longed to tell him about everything. Everything! About the deal, the wedding… just everything! But—"Would he understand?" her mind asked. Other than that, there was an unexplainable feeling deep in the pit of her stomach. She didn't know how to comprehend but being here with Harry, kissing him and telling him she didn't love Draco was really out of the question. She couldn’t lie but she couldn’t tell him no either. But before she could utter another word, Harry sealed her mouth with his again. Then remembering Draco, Ginny immediately pushed him away, much to her confusion. "Why? Why does this feel so wrong? So very, very wrong?"

"Ginny?" Harry cried with impatience. "What’s this? Don’t tell me—"

"I’m getting married Harry," she said, her voice testy.

At that, Harry’s face hardened. Whether due to shock or pain she didn’t know. She was about to say how sorry she was when Harry suddenly backed away from her.

"We’ll see about that," was all he said and quickly made his way inside the ballroom. "I'll have you out of that spell in no time."

"Harry!" Ginny called as she hastily went after him. "Harry! Where are you going? What do you mean?"

=========

Draco let out a series of curses as he made his way towards the ballroom, his anger blinding him. He just had a talk with his grandfather and right now, he felt like yelling and hitting someone or something! Just anything to get rid of this— this feeling!

"Draco, what’s the matter?"

Draco stopped only to see Blaise before him. He looked around first, surprised to see himself inside the ballroom. Then turning to Blaise, he swore. Blaise gasped delicately upon hearing the perfectly pronounced vile and cutting words flowing out from his lips.

"Oh my!" Blaise said when Draco was finished. She then took a glass of champagne from a tray and handed it to him. "Here, looks like you need this."

Draco, without a word, accepted the glass and drank the contents with one gulp. Blaise let out a smile as she took the empty glass from him and handed him another one. "Now, tell me what’s wrong?" she cooed sweetly.

Draco drank first before turning to her. "My grandfather gave Virginia half of the fortune," he answered hoarsely. With that, Blaise’s smiling face turned to an angry and surprised scowl.

"What!" she shrieked. "Draco, this—"

"I know!" Draco said, with cold fury. "Of course, I couldn’t do anything. If I reacted negatively, he would know about this charade. And it could be worse." He shook his head and let out a bitter smile. "I just promised Virginia her 70 million Galleons. I’ve just deposited a million to her Gringgots account and with my grandfather’s sudden change of heart, she would be receiving a total of two hundred and one million Galleons."

At that, Blaise suddenly smiled. "Not necesarily," she said.

Draco frowned. "What do you mean?"

"Oh you know what I mean, Draco," said Blaise giving him a sweet look. "What do you feel about having— perhaps, accidents?"

Draco’s frown deepened while Blaise smiled at him, waiting for his answer. He was about to open his mouth, when someone suddenly called his name. He turned around only to see Harry Potter walking purposely towards him, with Ginny close behind him.

"I need to talk to you, Malfoy," said Harry gravely.

"Fine, spill it now, Potter," said Draco.

"Draco, Harry, please—"

"Oh, so its Draco now? When did you start calling him by his first name?" Harry asked sarcastically. Then turning to Draco, his face darkened. "Outside, Malfoy."

"All right," replied Draco.

Blaise smiled up at him. "Just think about what I said," she said. Then she turned to Ginny, her face nastily scrunching with disgusted amusement. She let her eyes travel rudely from her head to foot before taking out her wand and Disapparating before Ginny could do anything as revolting and as rude as that. With Blaise finally gone, Draco turned to Harry.

"This way," he said as he made his way towards the ballroom’s exit with Harry following close behind.

"Where are you going?" Ginny called out as she quickly tried her best to catch up with them. The two men didn’t say anything until they reached the manor’s front doors.

"Now what, Potter?" Draco asked, not missing the dark look Harry gave him upon feeling Ginny making her way towards them. "Can’t bear to be a sore loser?"

As his reply, Harry looked behind him, checking if any of the guests were around. When he saw only Ginny, he turned back to Draco and without a word, swung his arm up and hit him hard against the face. Draco staggered backwards. His lips bled.

"You asked for it, Potter!" Draco yelled upon tasting the salty and rusty tang of his blood. He then hit him back, his knuckles landing against Harry’s face, knocking his glasses off. It fell to the floor and broke into two pieces. He would’ve used his wand and proposed a proper wizard’s duel but due to his rage and Harry’s successive blows, asking for a proper wizard’s duel was already out of the question. Apparently, Draco had been wanting this ever since the talk he had had with Vladimir. Due to Draco’s anger, it left little advantage for Harry.

"Stop it!" Ginny cried as the two started a brawl before her. "Stop it!"

"Take the curse off her, you bastard!" Harry yelled as he punched Draco in the stomach. Draco doubled over as pain seeped inside him. He then pushed Harry to the floor and before Harry could do anything, Draco kicked him hard on the ribs. Harry cried with pain.

"There is no curse, Potter!" Draco yelled, wiping his lower lip. He stopped as Harry slowly stood up. "It was just—"

"Both of you will stop now!" Ginny yelled as she held her wand out. "Petrificus Totalus!"

Instantly, the two froze before her, both their bodies turning rigid. Then to Ginny’s surprise, the two tumbled to the floor, both landing with a loud thump. If not for the current situation, Ginny would’ve found it funny.

"You must stop acting like children!" Ginny murmured as she made his way towards them. Then kneeling beside Harry, she swished her wand and whispered, "Finite Incantatum." Instantly, Harry began to blink.

"Ginny?"

"Go, Harry, please," said Ginny, picking his broken glasses from the floor. Harry sat up slowly and turned angrily towards Draco’s frozen form beside him. "Oculus Reparo," she whispered, tapping her wand against his glasses.

"Goddamn it, Ginny!" Harry suddenly yelled, standing up. "Why the hell did you do that!"

"But you're fighting!" Ginny yelled back, standing up as well, their voices echoing in the silent front hall.

"Hell, yes we were!" he answered back. "Before you interrupted! Do you think that I would just give in that easily? I wouldn't give you to that miserable, stupid, blasted, piece of Slytherin scum! I may be quiet or-- or-- mild-tempered, compared to Ron, that is, but when it comes to this, when it comes to you I--" Suddenly he stopped. He looked around and was surprised to find out that he was quite making a scene by flailing his arms wildly and pacing back and forth with furious steps. He looked down only to realize that Ginny slumped on the floor again, her face cast down miserably. His face softened. Looking at Ginny’s sober expression, Harry immediately felt like hitting himself for being insensitive. "Ginny, I’m so, so sorry about this," he said, shaking his head, kneeling beside her. "I’ve ruined your—engagement party—I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to— Well, actually I did mean hitting Malfoy, but to ruin your--"

"Harry," interrupted Ginny softly but nevertheless miserably. "I know you didn’t mean to." She handed him his newly repaired glasses and sighed. "Just go, all right? Please?"

"Just tell me one thing first," he said.

"What?"

"Was there a curse?"

Ginny shook her head. "Look, Harry, even if you pour down Veritaserum down my throat, I would still tell you: no, there was no spell or curse," she said with exasperation. "You really don't have to do this, you know."

"I'm angry and jealous and I admit I acted without thinking," said Harry, looking at Draco's frozen form with disgust. "But then-- "

"Harry, I'm getting married in a week," said Ginny. Surprisingly, she couldn't bear to hear something bad about Draco especially from Harry. She readily admitted that although she didn't love him, she didn't hate him either. But then, she couldn't also bring herself to hurt Harry like this. Although she already had with this engagement party, she didn't wish to prolong his pain by leading him on. "Oh god! I'm so confused! Why is everything confusing?"

Harry stared at her first, quite unsure of what to say. Then finally realizing that he couldn't do anything or say anything, he then nodded and put his glasses on. "I understand," he said as he took his wand out, his voice surprisingly cold. "Forgive me?"

"Yes, I forgive you," replied Ginny, feeling guiltier by the minute. Somehow, hearing his voice told her that she wouldn't see the last of him just yet. "You don’t know anything… Just go, please…"

"Thank you," said Harry. He stared at her one last time. Then with a simple flick of his wand, he disappeared, leaving Ginny alone with Draco’s frozen form. Then shaking her head, she positioned her wand before him and whispered, "Finite Incantatum." Instantly, Draco’s eyes began to move. Ginny smiled softly when his eyes landed on her face.

For a moment, Draco smiled back, his eyes still blurry. What's an angel doing here? And why is she dressed in brownish yellow, not white? Just then, his eyes focused. "That was a stupid thing to do," said Draco sitting up, his robes wrinkled and ruined. He swore loudly upon noting Harry gone.

"Oh really?" Ginny asked as she took her hankie. She lightly wiped Draco’s bleeding lips. "Which was more stupid? Fighting or stopping you from hitting each other?"

"Where is Potter?" he demanded.

"I asked him to leave before you started another brawl."

As his response, Draco let out a soft grunt of pain. Ginny then lightly patted the wounded lip. "This will give you a lovely bruise later on, do you know that?" she said.

"Unless you do something about it with your wand," said Draco sarcastically.

With that, Ginny’s eyes narrowed. "Why should I?" she asked nastily. "I saw you kissing Blaise Zabini."

Draco looked at her as if she was out of her mind. This was not the time for this, really! But nevertheless, his mouth quirked up in an amused grin, even though it hurt a little. "Correction, SHE kissed me, I pulled away."

"Well that doesn’t disregard the fact that you had lip contact," insisted Ginny.

"Are you jealous?" asked Draco in spite of himself.

"No," said Ginny quickly, frowning. "I just thought that you might want to refrain yourself from flirting with other women till our divorce. Just what would my parents and everybody say if they see you snogging every woman you see while you’re engaged to me?" Then Ginny stopped short.

Yes, other women… Draco couldn't be send with someone other than her, right? But earlier, with Blaise-- Then she frowned. "So what if he is?" she said spitefully to herself. "He can see or snog all the women he wants for all I care!" But then, why did she feel-- She sighed upon remembering the different reactions of the women, even her Gryffindor friends, when they saw him. She had long ago realized and accepted that Draco was a good-looking man but his attractiveness did not stop there. He had this complex personality that drew women to him. There was just something so bad about him… a good-bad kind of thing that women found so irresistible. Evil! Yes! That was the word! Everything about Draco was irresistibly evil and mysterious… he was a walking temptation. It was like a forbidden fruit. The more forbidden, the more delicious it would be. Women flocked to him because they wanted to know the real him, to understand the real him, which he kept deep inside of himself.

"And you’re jealous?" Draco finished for her, the urge to annoy and tease her getting stronger despite Vladimir’s sudden decision to change the will.

"I am not jealous!"

"And you’re angry?"

"I am not angry!" Ginny cried indignantly.

"Yes you are."

"No, I’m not!"

Draco raised his eyebrows. "Really?"

"You’re annoying me again, aren’t you?" Ginny asked smirking. "Well, I kissed Harry."

This shut Draco up. He stared at her and for some reason, another set of rage and anger began to rise within him. He felt like hitting someone again, Potter in particular. "Well, I guess that makes us even," he said with forced calmness.

"I guess so," she replied finally standing up. Draco stood up as well. "But don’t you worry, I’m not thinking of backing out of the deal."

"Of course not," said Draco as Ginny then swished her wand against his face. He closed his eyes as he felt the pain finally ebbing away. "Especially now that Grandfather has decided to give you half of the fortune."

With that, Ginny’s jaw dropped. "What!" she cried. "What do you mean?"

"It means that you get 201 million Galleons," said Draco flatly. "Whereas I get— well, 61 million. Of course he doesn’t know that you’ll be getting 69 million in addition," he continued. Then he smirked. "So, I’ll definitely see you on our wedding day, Virginia." Then without waiting for her answer, he turned around and made his way back to the ballroom, completely leaving her dumbfounded, staring after him.

End of Part VIII

(End of Chapter)