However Far Away - Part II of Romance, Slytherin Style

Romance, Slytherin Style - A Trilogy - Part II

However Far Away
Chapter Three

by Sea Isle Witch

"Don't cry, Pansy."

She froze. He was right behind her.

He placed his hands on her shoulders and very gently turned her around.

She looked up into his eyes. Overcome with emotions, she put her head on his shoulder and wept. He didn't forget about me!

He inhaled her intoxicating scent, as he held her and stroked her hair. "I couldn't stay away any longer. It was killing me," he whispered into her ear.

"I've been so worried. Where have you been?"

"Shhh..." He put his finger on her lips. "Where can we go? I can't be seen." He suddenly looked concerned as he surveyed their surroundings.

"I have the seventh year dorm all to myself."

He held out his hand, as he always did when they were together. She quickly placed her hand in his, and he gave it a little squeeze as she led him to her room. Her butterflies were doing acrobatics.

Fefnir greeted them with a cheerful bark.

"He's mine. I-I hated feeling so alone," she explained, still teary. She spun in the centre of the room, lighting an assortment of candles with a wave of her wand.

Draco closed the door and stopped her from talking further by putting his finger to her lips again. With his wand drawn, his eyes darted around the room. He magically moved the window draperies to make sure the room was empty, and even glanced under the bed.

"We're alone. Colloportus." The door sealed with an odd squelching noise.

He's acting as if someone is after him, she thought anxiously. That's a new spell too. She noted that Draco looked weary and somehow altered, yet he was clearly pleased to see her.

"Hello there, little Cruppy." Draco bent to pet Fefnir, who received the attention happily and then returned to his basket.

Draco slipped off his black wool cloak and dropped his rucksack. Pansy's eyes widened and her heart skipped a beat. Draco was simply dashing in a wizard's riding habit: a long, traditional jacket in navy, a fine cream hunt shirt with a white brocade stock tie, tan breeches and Hebridean Black dragon hide riding boots.

He must have ridden here! He looks so handsome! She was captivated, and she couldn't take her eyes off him.

He took a good long look at her as he removed his jacket and loosened his tie. She's even more beautiful than I remember. Her shiny hair was slightly longer, and he liked the way it framed her pretty face.

He sat in a chair and pulled his boots off. He noticed she was thinner than the last time he saw her, but the velvet dress flattered her slender figure. I wonder what she'd look like with just that cape on.

He stood up and reached for her. "I've missed you."

Draco held on to Pansy as if she would float away.

~ * ~

All her questions seemed to vanish as his physical presence overwhelmed her. I can't believe he's here! She wrapped her arms around him, pressing her body as close as she could. She needed to prove to herself that it was him. He feels so good, so strong and so masculine.

They stayed in each others arms, silently cherishing the closeness that they had been denied for too long.

She's missed me as much as I have her. Draco held her face and kissed her with every emotion he had been holding back for months. I need her.

She was completely lost in his kiss. I will not let him leave me again. I'll do whatever it takes.

As his hands move over her soft velvet dress, she found herself unfastening his stock pin, which was adorned with the Malfoy crest, and removing his tie. She carefully placed them on a table and turned back to unbutton his shirt. She touched his chest, a bit tentatively at first. His skin felt warm and smooth. He's so gorgeous, just like I remember. She snaked her hands inside his shirt and rubbed his sides and back, while looking up into his light grey eyes. Does he still want me?

Draco gazed into her liquid green eyes, his heart beating rapidly. Don't look at me like that, Pansy, or I may lose control.

He moved her cape to the side so he could kiss her neck. Then he pushed her dress down off her shoulders and touched the fine amethyst lace of her bra. He took a deep breath and removed it to reveal her marvellous breasts. Perfection! He kissed each of them, then knelt down and slowly pulled her dress down over her hips. He gave her his hand, so she could move out of the dress gracefully, and he tossed it over a nearby chair.

She reached down and pushed his shirt off his shoulders. Now we're a bit more equal with our dress. She ran her hands through his sleek blond hair and watched him caress her, fascinated by the way the muscles in his arms and shoulders moved.

Still kneeling, he slowly removed her black boots and caressed her thinner, but still shapely legs. He placed his hands on each side of her lace panties and looked up at her.

She flashed her sexy smile.

She's going to let me have her! He bit his lower lip and pulled her panties down. She smoothly stepped out of them, and he sat back on his heels to take her in.

So that's what she looks like with just her cape on. Mmmm... Stunning! Draco kissed her thighs and belly, feverishly working his way up to her breasts and then to her lips once again.

He pulled the cape around her shoulders so that the front edges rested on her breasts, which he enjoyed tantalising a bit more. He stood back to admire her. She is absolutely lovely. Draco pulled the silk ribbon tied at her throat and watched the cape flutter to the floor. Please, Pansy, wear that again for me.

His intensity thrilled her and left her trembling. With shaking hands, she unfastened his body-hugging riding breeches and pushed them down off his hips, leaving him in green silk boxers.

"Slytherin," she whispered.

"Always." He smiled, remembering the last time she saw his boxers.

Draco finished undressing and then pressed his naked flesh against hers. The warmth of his body acted as a Calming Charm for her nerves.

"If you only knew how much I love you."

"I need you to show me, Draco."

~ * ~

He took her hand and kissed it, then led her over to the canopy bed. She lied down amid the downy pillows and fine linens she had brought from home. Draco pulled the canopy's filmy draperies together, enclosing them in a world of their own. There was nothing else--just a man and a woman, a witch and a wizard. They stared at each other in the candlelight.

He reclined on his side with his head propped on his hand, taking in her loveliness. She's my fantasy witch.

Pansy turned to face him. My Wizard prince. She caressed his face looking for signs of his love, which she easily found.

"Pansy, I am going to watch your every expression as I pleasure you in ways you didn't know were possible, then, and only then, when I know you want me without any doubt, will I take your pure-blood innocence," he whispered, staring into her eyes.

Oh my! Her eyes widened, but a sensual smile played across her lips. "I'm yours," she whispered bravely.

Draco smiled seductively, ready to ravish her, but something stopped him. Contraception! "Pansy, do you know the charm?"

Pansy sat up and held open the filmy drapes. "Accio wand. Accio Charms for Special Occasions." She caught the wand in her right hand and the book in her left, and then she quickly flipped to the appropriate page.

Pointing her wand directly at Draco's private bits, she flawlessly recited the complicated incantation, "Fides Detineo Conceptus Temporalis Interclusio Virils Viscus."

Bloody hell! She used the wizard charm--on me! She's quick and fearless with that wand! It took Draco a moment to get over the shock. Focus... Focus... He just had to look at her to refocus. He pushed her back onto the pillows and leaned over her, kissing her deeply.

He traced his finger on her full lips. She put the tip of her tongue on his finger, and he bit his lower lip.

I love when he does that! She turned onto her side to face him again.

Draco put his hand on the side of her cheek, taking in the details of her features. I'm going to take this slow. I want to make sure she's ready for me. He caressed her neck and shoulders. His touch was light as he ran his hand smoothly along her arm, then over her breasts and belly. He licked his lips as he touched her softest skin and moved his hand to caress her thighs. Luscious... I can't wait!

As his hand roamed over her body, she realised this was the first time she had ever been completely nude with him. She could see him fully for the first time too. He had the light muscular build of a sports wizard, and she wanted to touch him all over to see what he felt like, but her naivety stopped the impulse. What if I don't do it correctly?

Pansy was inexperienced and really didn't know what to expect from him. She knew he would be gentle and not do anything that she didn't like, but what would she like? What will it feel like when he makes love to me?

She's fantastically sensual, but she doesn't even know it--yet, he thought excitedly. The prospect of many nights like this made him eager to more forward, but he told himself to slow down. I need her to feel everything I can't even begin to say to her.

He finally pressed his lips against hers, and she responded with a passion she didn't know she had. He brings out another side of me.

That's it, Pansy... He gently pushed her onto her back and leaned over her to kiss her breasts, while his hand roamed to a place she had never been touched before.

Ohhhhhhhh!

He glanced at her face and smiled. I knew she'd like that! He continued to explore her body, arousing her in ways that made her want more.

She closed her eyes and concentrated on what was happening. I don't want him to stop--ever!

He delighted her until he just couldn't stand it any longer. He had to have her. She's definitely ready! Merlin knows I am!

~ * ~

"Pansy?" he whispered.

She knew the time had come, and she was nervously excited. "Draco..."

He gave her tender kiss. "I will never forget this night or how much I love you."

She was completely high on the emotional and physical rush of his attentions. "Draco, I want to love you--completely."

Draco moved so he was directly above her and smoothly moved her thighs with his knees. He closed his eyes for a moment. Just a little longer.

He watched her reaction as he slowly moved himself to where he ached to be. Pansy's expression was full of love and wonder, and it made his heart skip a beat. Merlin! I have to stay in control. Quidditch! Think of Quidditch!

He felt her tense for a moment when he broke through, and he paused to make sure she was all right. He kissed her lightly, and when she smiled up at him, he continued to press forward, as gently as he could, until he fully felt the witch he loved in the most intimate way possible.

Draco held still for a moment, and she reached up and touched his face with her pretty hands. Then, very tenderly, he showed Pansy how much love he had for her.

Pansy felt incredibly special and supremely loved as she stared into his dreamy eyes. The sensations she was feeling for the very first time made her aware of her beauty and sensuality, as if something inside her was becoming alive. The butterflies she had felt in her belly all these years had formed an exquisite bloom. She would never forget this time with him. He had taken care to make it a wonderful experience for her, and that made her love him even more.

Afterward, the intensity of their coupling made her a bit teary, and he kissed her tears away.

They silently held each other, savouring the experience that changed the dynamic of their romance. Each content, they were able to sleep deeply and untroubled.

~ * ~

"Good morning, my lovely witch." He was lying behind her, caressing her back and shoulders, and placing tender kisses here and there.

She turned to look at him with a wide smile. "I'm the happiest witch that ever lived."

He kissed her forehead. "That's all I ever need to hear." They held each other close, skin to skin.

She brushed the back of her hand languidly along his jaw line, feeling his morning stubble. "I can't believe you're here. I dreamed a thousand dreams that you were holding me, lying in my bed, and here we are."

"What else happened in those dreams?"

"Hmmm... You are lying on your back, and I kiss you." She pushed him back and slid her lips along his skin, randomly placing tender kisses.

"Then what, Pansy?"

"I touch you. Um... Is this right?" she asked timidly. "I want to know how."

He caught his breath, closed his eyes and pushed his head down on the pillow. "Ahhh, yes. Just right. I love this dream."

"Then..."

"There's more?" He tried to suppress his smile, but it didn't work.

"Yes, there is," she said, enjoying the effect she had on him. "Now you place your hands on my hips and pull me on top of you."

"Like this?"

"Yes, just like that," she whispered.

"This dream is getting better by the minute."

"I rather enjoy what comes next."

"Do you?" he said, smirking as she continued to touch him. "I know I'm enjoying it."

After a few minutes, he summoned her wand. "Should I prepare myself? You gave me quite a shock last night. I wasn't expecting that."

"Draco, the book says this is the most reliable charm there is, and that's exactly what we want." The spell was cast, and she dropped her wand on the bed. "Now, where were we?"

"Let me see if I can predict this part of your fantasy." He moved her to the side and leaned over, stroking her most delicate places.

"Yes, that's it exactly." She kissed his succulent lips, while she enjoyed his attentions.

He put his hands on her hips and pulled her up on top of him again, positioning her just right. "Does this happen now?"

"Have you had this dream too?"

~ * ~

"What's his name?" Draco was sitting on the rug in his green silk boxers, playing with the Cruppy.

"Fefnir." She was lying nude on her stomach, feet in the air, looking down from the bed at the adorable sight.

The Cruppy was excited to have so much attention and licked Draco's face.

He laughed and wiped the slobber off with the back of his hand. "Why did you name him that?"

"Fefnir was a Norse dragon."

"Dragon?" He looked at her with his eyebrows raised.

"Yes, Draco." She smiled. He got it!

"I'll find someone to take him outside for his walk." Fefnir picked up his yellow ball and sniffed at the door. "See? He's very smart," she told him.

Pansy noticed a small scar on Draco's back that she hadn't seen before. I wonder what happened to him, she thought fearfully. She had the urge to kiss it.

"Pansy, I need to leave," Draco said, standing up. He pulled some clothes and a wizard's robe out of his rucksack.

She sat up, pulling a sheet around her. "Leave? Now? Why?" There was panic in her voice that she couldn't disguise.

"I'd like to visit the lavatory," he told her, as if it was obvious.

She closed her eyes for moment and exhaled. "What if someone sees you?"

"I'll do a Disillusionment Charm. Most people should be at breakfast around now anyway."

"You can do that charm?"

He nodded. "I've learned a lot of magic recently," he said darkly, not looking at her. Magic I'll never tell you about.

"Let me go first to see what the situation is," she said, pulling a thin dressing gown over her bare skin.

"If I knew you were walking around like that, I would have made it to your room sooner," he said, while kissing her neck.

"Oh, really?" she mused. When he persisted nibbling her neck, she looked at him. "I thought you were in a hurry."

"Now would be better than later."

She took his hand and looked into his eyes. "Please, Draco, don't disappear. Be here when I return. I have so much I need to talk to you about."

Draco wrapped her warm bathrobe around her; he knew how cold it was in the dungeons, even if her room was fairly warm. "Don't worry. We'll meet back here, lovely witch," he said, kissing her lips. "We do indeed have a lot to talk about."

"I should get you some breakfast."

"Can you manage it?"

"I'll find away."

"Finite Incantatem." Draco removed the spell from the door.

Pansy looked around the dorms and the common room. She even peeped inside the wizards' lavatory and then hurried back to him.

"There's a few silly imps just now leaving for breakfast, but the wizards' side is completely empty."

"Good. Praestigiae Latesco." Draco seemed to vanish. He was still there, but chameleon-like, blending into the background.

"That is so odd!" Pansy remarked, reaching out to touch him.

"It comes in handy."

She didn't recognise his tone. I wonder how often he has to use this spell. It scares me to think of him in danger, she thought as she retrieved a fresh dressing gown and her grooming items.

"Follow me, my love. I'll run interference, if it's needed. Fefnir, come on boy."

My love... I like the sound of that, thought Draco blissfully as he watched her graceful form lead the way.

Pansy checked the common room and spied a first year boy, returning from Sunday breakfast. I can't let him discover Draco!

"Oh!" Pansy pretended to be weak and dropped into a chair, making sure her bathrobe was still closed. "Oh!"

"Are you okay?" the boy asked.

"I'm not feeling well. I need to go back to my room to lie down, but my Cruppy needs a brisk walk. He should be outside for a very long time. Will you help me?"

"I-I will, Pansy," the boy stammered, with admiration in his eyes. Hurried to his dorm, grabbed his cloak and darted away with Fefnir and the yellow ball.

Pansy smirked. That was easy.

How can I get breakfast? she wondered as she made her way to the witches' lavatory. A small creature was Scourgifying the vanities. Ah, perfect.

"Hello there," Pansy greeted the little elf cheerfully.

The elf jumped. "Oh, you are not to see Winky!"

"It's okay, I don't mind." Pansy smiled thinly. "Winky is it?"

The house-elf nodded fearfully.

"I've been ill, Winky, and I haven't had anything to eat in a very, very long time."

"Winky would be honoured to help, Missy."

"Here's what I want you to do..."

~ * ~

Smiling, Pansy waltzed back to her room freshly showered, magicking a tray loaded with food and drink in front of her. When she opened the door, she didn't see him. Where is he? She started to panic, but managed to land the tray safely on her small study table. The door shut behind her.

"Colloportus. Infinite Incantatem."

His arms were around her; her back melded against his chest.

"Ahhh... You used your hair potion, the one that intoxicates me. I can't help myself when you use it. See?" He opened her robe and began teasing her. She leaned her head back, and he kissed her.

"Did I ever tell you how incredibly amazing you are?" Draco asked.

She blushed and giggled. He was doing some pretty amazing things to her. "I haven't been this happy in so long, Draco."

"I didn't think it was possible to be this happy." He yanked her dressing gown out of his way, and he manoeuvred them over to the bed, keeping his hands moving. He sat down and pulled her into his lap.

He hadn't been so relaxed since the time they spent by the pond on her parents' estate. This is infinitely better, he mused as he touched and kissed her bits.

He wanted to make love again, not only because of his arousal, but to delay the inevitable discussion of his recent activities. However, he thought they should wait a while. "Later," he whispered in her ear, feeling proud of himself for putting her comfort ahead of his desires. I'm gentle with her; she's lucky to have me.

"Draco, are you hungry?" she asked, while pulling on a white silk witch's robe trimmed in green ribbon.

"Famished. You're giving me quite a workout," he said with a grin. "You look beautiful."

"Thank you, Draco." She smiled at him, knowing he wasn't one to give out complements lightly. "After we eat, you can answer all of my questions. I want to know everything."

He grimaced slightly and glanced at her out of the corner of his eye. She's a determined witch, that's for certain.

She noticed his darkening eyes and momentary closure of his expression. But you will answer, my love.

"Come sit at the study table. Wingardium Leviosa." An extra chair levitated from across the room, as if it were as light as a feather, and she showed off a bit by making it spin before landing it perfectly at the table.

"Your magic is impressive," he complemented, while pouring a glass of pumpkin juice for her. "It makes me excited to see you so powerful." He winked. "You need to be able to protect yourself too, just in case. We should talk about that after we eat." Yeah, we'll talk about that instead.

"All summer and all term, I've been practicing and learning new spells and charms, including defensive magic. I haven't had much else to do, aside from studying and taking care of Fefnir." She handed him a plate, and served him some of everything the little house-elf had provided.

"Not much to do? Why were you dressed so beautifully last night?" I have a few questions of my own, Pansy.

"Oh, there was a bit of a party for the seventh years," she said flippantly.

"I saw the Ravenclaw, Pansy."

"I'd forgotten all about that," she told him, trying to sound casual as she fed him a strawberry. He saw Kevin! I'm surprised this is the first time he's mentioned it. He's usually so jealous.

Hmmm... She's not talking. He placed a piece of toast on her plate. "You need to eat a little more. I don't want you to become ill."

"Honestly, Draco, I've had no appetite," she replied, taking a large bite of egg and sausage bake.

"It seems to have returned."

She nodded, her mouth was full.

He patiently waited until she was nearly finished eating, before pursuing the subject again.

"The Ravenclaw," he reminded her.

"We spent the last eight hours in bliss, and you're wondering about a classmate?"

"You were alone with him, coming back from somewhere together," he told her. "Where were you? Why were you with him? Why did he come into our common room? Did he try to touch you?"

"It hardly seems fair for you to question me like this, given the fact that I didn't know if I'd ever see you again. I didn't even know if you were alive, Draco." That should stop this questioning.

He dismissed what she had said. "I saw a situation I didn't care for." He tried to look hurt. That should make her answer now.

She looked at him. He's hurt.

"Draco, I will tell you everything you need to know." She put her hand on his cheek and smiled. "I went to the party with Millie, who disappeared with a Hufflepuff, a pure-blood of course--Wayne Hopkins, before the party wound down. I didn't want to walk through the dark castle alone." She paused to see his reaction so far, but she couldn't read his expression.

"So Kevin offered to walk me back, and on the way we talked--as friends. I asked him if he wanted to see the common room. There's so few students that formalities have gone by the wayside. Believe me, he knew better than to try anything. You must have seen him leave."

"I did, but the thought of you with someone else--I can't stand it." Draco clenched his teeth. Her involvement is innocent, but his definitely isn't. I saw him look at her; it was the same way I look at her.

~ * ~

"I know what you mean." She poured Draco a cup of tea and added just the right amount of milk to suit his taste. I have to ask him. I can't go on without knowing, and he brought this whole thing up.

"Accio rucksack." She crisply pulled out a folded parchment. "Would you mind taking a look at this?"

He put down his tea and took the parchment from her. The photograph fell out onto the table between them. She watched him very carefully as he looked down at it.

Draco's heart plummeted into his stomach. He closed his eyes and rubbed his temples. Why this now?

He didn't dare look at her, but opened the parchment and read the letter Pansy had copied. Merlin, help me make her understand. He took a deep breath, and then looked up at her. Her expression was suddenly cold.

She felt her stomach lurch, and the colour drained from her face. Oh no! "Is it true?"

He saw that she was holding her wand so tightly in her hand that her knuckles were white. He flinched.

"Is it true, Draco?"

"Not entirely," he admitted.

She was infuriated, moving her wand around in her hand.

I can throw up a shield if she tries to hex me, but then it will just rebound back to her. Maybe I can dodge out of the way in time. I've got good reflexes.

"Please let me explain. I'll tell you about it," he said quickly, trying to pacify her so she would put her wand down.

"Were you going to tell me today?" she questioned, her voice cracking. "Were you going to tell me after you took my pure-blood virginity that you are going to marry someone else?"

Tears trickled down her face, but she was very angry. She jumped up from the table and pointed her wand at him.

"Expelliarmus!" Her wand flew into his hand as he stood. Draco placed both of their wands under a pillow; he wasn't going to let this get any worse.

Draco crossed is arms. "Stop this!"

She shook her head in disbelief. "Sod off, Draco!" She covered her face with her hands as she started to sob. She felt like knife had been plunged into her stomach.

He tried to comfort her, but she shoved him away and moved over to the window where it was cold, making her shiver.

"How did we go from being the happiest we've ever been to this?" Draco asked.

"How dare you ask me that when you've seen what I've had to deal with!" she cried. All the hurt of the past week came rushing back, causing her despair all over again.

"You have to stop crying and listen to me! I will not have you upset!" he shouted. "Stop it now!"

She recoiled. He's yelling at me. Mother was right.

"Don't shout at me; you have no right," she said, sobbing and trembling. "You are being horrible to me!"

He calmed himself. "I'm sorry I yelled at you. Pansy, please just listen to me."

She could hardly hear him; her head started to spin. I feel so dizzy. What's happening?

"Draco," she muttered as tried to steady herself on the arm of her cosy chair. Then everything went white.

~ * ~

Draco was there in a flash. "Pansy! Pansy!"

She was limp, pale and unresponsive. He carried her to the bed and checked to make sure she was breathing. I think she's fainted.

He retrieved his wand from under the pillow. Waving it, he snarled, "Advoco Elfin Familiaris Dobby!"

The little house-elf appeared before him looking indignant. "Dobby takes no orders from Master Malfoy!"

"This is an emergency. Pansy is sick. Get Madam Pomfrey now and tell no one else."

Dobby took one look at Pansy and then vanished. He reappeared a few moments later. "Madam Pomfrey comes."

"Good." Draco rubbed Pansy's hand trying to wake her up. "Pansy, wake up. Pansy, please wake up."

Dobby's ears twitched. "You are not supposed to be here! You are a Dark Wizard now!"

"There are things that you do not know about. Tell no one. It is important to... Harry Potter," Draco choked out, knowing the elf would do anything for the scar-headed prat. I must help Pansy right now.

Dobby looked at Draco curiously. "I will say nothing, if it will help Harry Potter!"

"Get a cold, wet cloth. Now!" Draco ordered.

Dobby obeyed. "Dobby does this for Miss Pansy and Harry Potter! Not you!"

"Get rid of that old food and straighten this place up, while you're just standing there."

Dobby snapped his fingers, and the food vanished, but then he folded his arms in defiance.

Draco ignored the elf and gently patted Pansy's face with the cloth. She was starting to come around.

"Draco... Draco..." she mumbled, moving her head from side to side.

Someone was trying to enter the room, and Draco hoped it was Madam Pomfrey. Summoning his belongings, he hid behind the window drapery. "Finite Incantatem," he said, releasing the sealing spell on the door.

"Oh, poor Miss Parkinson!" Madam Pomfrey rushed in. "Dobby, you did the right thing by telling me; you are a very good house-elf indeed."

Dobby blushed and wiggled his ears.

Madam Pomfrey ran her wand over Pansy. "Miss Parkinson, can you hear me?"

"Why, Draco? Why?"

"She's talking gibberish. She's had some sort of shock. The poor girl has been suffering all term, losing weight and missing classes. Good thing term ends next week. She could use the love and support of her family over the break," Madam Pomfrey said to herself, shaking her head. She pulled up a chair and sat down next to Pansy.

Draco felt incredibly guilty. She's been ill--because of me! he thought angrily from his hiding place. And now this. I have to do better by her.

Madam Pomfrey stayed until Pansy was fully awake. "How do you feel, dear?"

"Numb."

"You need a little Pepperup Potion. Drink every drop of this, Miss Parkinson." She handed Pansy a phial of liquid. "That's a good girl. Now, you relax for the rest of the day. I'll have a snack sent down soon and then supper later."

"Dobby will do it, Madam!"

"Very well, Dobby," she said with approval. "Miss Parkinson, please let me know if you are feeling faint again."

"Thank you, Madam Pomfrey. Thank you for helping me again."

The kindly nurse patted her on the hand and then left the room.

~ * ~

Draco came out from his hiding place.

"How are you, Pansy? I was so worried!" He sat on the edge of the bed and took her hand is his.

"Draco, what happened?" she asked, looking around the room.

"We were talking and you fainted."

"There's a little elf!"

"That's my parents' bloody house-elf. It went to get Madam Pomfrey," Draco admitted grudgingly.

"Dobby does not serve the Malfoys no more!"

"Your name is Dobby, little elf?"

"Yes, Miss Pansy! Winky has told Dobby about you!"

"Leave now, Dobby," Draco commanded. "Remember what I told you."

Dobby ignored Draco. He bowed low before Pansy and said, "Dobby will bring food now."

"Bring tea too. Pansy needs some tea," Draco said tersely.

"Do not tell anyone, not even Winky, about my visitor. It's absolutely important for many reasons that I cannot go into right now. Can I count on you, Dobby?" Pansy pouted ever so slightly.

"Dobby is a free house-elf, free to decide what to say. Dobby will keep your secret, Miss. You can count on Dobby." The elf vanished.

Pansy looked at the love of her life. "Draco, I just can't take you breaking my heart..."

The door burst open, and Millicent walked in with Fefnir. "Pansy, are you all right? How did it go with Kevin last night? Draco!"

"Shhh... Close the door, Millie," Pansy told her, sitting up. "Thank you for bringing Fefnir back."

"What's going on? Draco, where have you been? How did you get in here? Are you okay, Pansy? Should I get someone?" Millicent was not sure what she had walked in on.

"Obliviate!" Draco had cast the spell to erase Millicent's memory. Millicent was immediately dazed and stared straight out in front of her.

Pansy was shocked. "She's my friend!" The look on Draco's face scared her.

"Shhh... I can't risk it," he whispered.

"Millicent, you brought Fefnir back to Pansy because she was sick," Draco said slowly and clearly. "Pansy was in bed alone when you returned her Cruppy. You saw no one else. Go back to your room, Millicent, and study. Do not come back here today."

Draco circled his wand in the air, and Millicent turned around. He flicked his wand toward the door, and she walked over, opened it and left.

"Colloportus." Draco secured the door.

He turned back to Pansy. "I'm sorry. I had no choice."

Pansy threw herself down and cried. She couldn't help it, her emotions overwhelmed her. He Obliviated my best friend! He must hate that I'm crying and that I fainted. He's marrying that Bunny! Why am I so thick? Oh, Branwen, why have I always been a fool for him?

Draco sat down on the edge of the bed and stroked her back. "Please don't cry." I hate that I've hurt her. I have to make things right.

He hasn't left yet because he actually feels guilty that he lied to me and used me. He pities me because we've been friends for so long.

Pansy realised she had to get herself together. She was a Parkinson, a member of a proud family who never grovels. She was also a Slytherin, cunning and strong, if nothing else. She willed herself to stop crying and sat up.

Dobby appeared with the food and tea. "For Miss Parkinson."

"Good. Now go," Draco told Dobby, as he poured a cup of tea for Pansy.

Dobby scowled at Draco and then vanished.

Draco added lots of milk, just the way she liked it, and then handed the tea to Pansy. "Will you eat something?"

"No." Pansy sipped the tea, trying not to cry.

"Pansy, are you feeling a bit better?"

"I'm as well as I can be given the circumstances." She put her tea down on the bedside chest.

"Will you let me tell you the truth now?"

"The truth? I don't think I can handle the truth right now." Against her will, tears were streaming down her face again.

"I knew about the photograph and the letter, yet I still let you take my virginity. No proper wizard will have me now. You must grant me one thing, Draco; please don't tell anyone about this. I may still be able to salvage a match if no one knows. I'll always know, though; it's not something I'll ever forget," she said, her voice cracking.

"It's time for you to go. I won't tell anyone you were here, so please don't Obliviate me. I want to remember the best night of my life. This is the part I'd like to forget. Please, be merciful and just go now." She was absolutely crushed. She couldn't help the tears that were streaming down her cheeks, but she was going to hold her head up high, at least until he left.

~ * ~

Draco stared at her in disbelief while she babbled on. When she was done, he gently put his arms around her.

"You have it all wrong, Pansy," he whispered. "You have it all wrong." He stroked her hair as she cried, pulling her as close as she could possibly be to him.

"I'm in love with you, Pansy. There's no shame in what we've done togther. Last night was absolutely perfect, and I will never forget making love to you for the very first time."

She looked at him though her tears. He was saying the things she needed to hear.

"Pansy, you've jumped to conclusions that just aren't valid. Please let me tell you about the photograph and the letter. Just give me a chance."

"It's not true?"

"No, Pansy, it's not true." He held her until she stopped shaking and sobbing. He wanted to make love to her so she would feel better, but he knew he needed to clear up this whole Bunny business first.

Draco poured more tea for her and made her eat a bit of a chocolate-covered biscuit.

"Are you ready for me to tell you now? Are you up for it?"

"I think so. Tell me, but look at me when you do."

He arranged her pillows, so she could sit more comfortably. He sat directly opposite her. "Will this work for you?"

"Yes. I want my wand back."

"Why?"

"To cast Legilimens."

"That's not a good idea, Pansy, for so many reasons."

"It's the only way I'll listen to what you have to say."

Draco sighed and placed her wand on the bed between them.

She snatched it up and pointed it at him. "This is how it's going to work. You tell me something and then show me the memory. Then you do it again until you are finished."

"This is a little extreme. I know things look bad, but you should trust me to tell you the truth." Draco wasn't keen to have Pansy sift through his thoughts, and besides, he needed to protect her from the horrible things he didn't want to remember.

"From where I'm sitting, things look impossible."

He moved closer, until he was directly in front of her and looked into her teary eyes. Seeing her this unhappy was heart-wrenching. He had to convince her; he just couldn't do without her. I need to calm down, or I won't show her the right things, then I'll lose her for sure. Damn! Calm down!

"Are you sure you want to see this?"

"I don't see any alternative," she said.

"I need to hold you, Pansy. Will you let me?"

"I know what will happen if I do."

"Would that be so bad?"

"Draco, I desperately need to know the truth. If you have something to show me that will help me understand what's going on, then you need to do it. Now."

"Pansy, listen to me; this is very important." Draco made sure he had her attention. "Please don't try to sift through my thoughts, let me show you the memory. There are things you shouldn't see--horrible things. Remember who I'm forced to serve. I'm more skilled now, but I can't promise I can keep you from seeing things you shouldn't. So, just let me show you the memory, okay?"

"I'll have to trust you on this point."

"Give me a moment, and then cast your spell."

Pansy counted to twenty and then said, "Legilimens."

Draco felt her presence. He moved the memory forward.

*
He was outside, shirtless and sitting on a lounge chair. It was sunny and breezy; the ocean was nearby.

"Bunny, it's not going to work."

"But we always have so much fun!"

"Things are different now. Find someone else to play with."

"Draco, I have a sore neck, please help me," she pouted, sitting on his lap in her swimsuit. She grabbed his hands and put them on her shoulders. "Rub."

Click!

"I took a photograph of you and one of your boyfriends! Ha, ha!" a young Bethany teased, and then ran off.

Bunny leaned back on him, putting her hands in his hair. "Remember this?"

"How could I forget?"

"How about this?" she turned to face him and rubbed his bare chest, moving her hands down his torso.

"You are something else."

"Do you want to remember more?"

"No."

"Why?"

"Things have changed."

"I've seen you kissing that silly little girl."

"Pansy is not silly."

"I say she is. I'm twice the witch she will ever be."

"Don't speak ill of her!"

"Defending her honour, Draco?"

"Why don't you try to find Montague?"

"He's off sailing today. I thought we could have a little fun before he gets back."

"I'm not playing your games. Go find someone else."

"Any wizard would love to have me. Look at me!" Bunny stood up, showing off her petite figure. "I'm perfect."

"Not for me."

"It's your loss, Draco." She slapped him hard on the face and left.
*

Draco broke Pansy's hold on him and leaned back, rubbing his temples.

Pansy sat in silence for a moment, trying to understand what she had just seen.

"When was that?"

"Easter holiday, fifth year, before our summer together."

"Why was she there?" That bitch! But he told her 'No!'

"Mother and I were at the Wizarding resort we always go to in Malta. Father missed that trip. A lot of pure-bloods go there, including her family and Montague's. It wasn't planned." Draco couldn't gauge her reaction. "I'm sorry you had to see that, but it should explain that photograph. Do you understand now?"

"I see that you had an intimate relationship with her on breaks, while you were with me here at school."

Draco took her hand. "I'm sorry. She wasn't special to me, and there were others like her. I'm sorry to tell you that, but it's true."

She tried to pull her hand away, but he kissed it and held it over his heart.

"I couldn't have you back then, and I did what I did because it was expected of me and because they were available to satisfy my needs. It never meant anything more than that to me."

She still didn't look convinced, so he went on.

"It only happened on breaks and never at school. I have never touched any other witch at school, and I've never wanted to. When you are around, Pansy, there's no one else. You are the only witch that means everything to me." He kissed her hand again.

As much as it hurts to hear there were others, I think I understand what he's saying. I just wonder if he could ever be trustworthy when I'm not around.

"I need to think about that, Draco." She was determined to find out what else he needed to show her. "Tell me when you're ready."

"This one might scare you a bit. Are you sure you want to see it? Why don't I just tell you about it, so I can leave parts of it out." Draco didn't want to upset her anymore, and he was worried she might faint again.

"You have to show me. There's no other way. Ready?"

"Remember, let me show you. Don't go looking. Sometimes strange things happen when I feel intruded upon. I'm learning to control it better, but I don't want to hurt you."

"I'm already hurt."

Draco winced. Get it together. I need to be in complete control to do this right. "I need a few minutes."

"Okay," she said.

He pushed everything from his consciousness and concentrated on the memory he needed to show her. "I'm ready."

"Legilimens."

*
It was night and the room was dark, lit only by a fireplace. It was difficult to make out any of the details.

Bellatrix stood in front of Draco. "The Dark Lord has plans for you."

"Draco is my charge. The Dark Lord did not tell me about any new plans."

"Snape, he's my nephie poo. Aren't you, Draco?" She ran her hand along Draco's check.

Draco stood stoically.

"Draco will not go anywhere unless I hear the orders myself from the Dark Lord. He has entrusted me with his youngest servant. I will not betray his confidence."

"It's time our little Draco is married," Bellatrix said, ignoring Snape.

"What are you talking about?" Draco demanded.

"The Dark Lord is ready to start the purification of Britain."

"The Dark Lord decided to postpone that until later, after the Ministry collapses," Snape interjected.

Bellatrix continued to ignore Snape.

"He has a lovely pure-blood beauty for you, Draco. You should thank me. I personally selected her for you, and even your mother approves. She's the prettiest one, and the one with the best blood that was available. You will enjoy her."

"What? I'm not ready to marry! What is this purification?" Draco said.

"You will marry her and have as many children as possible, who will have as many as they can."

"What? I'm supposed to breed with this witch? To satisfy some quota?" he said with disgust.

"Draco, it's a great honour and your duty. It shall be through you and other pure-bloods that the population will be restored to its former glory!"

"Why haven't you bred, Bellatrix?" Snape asked condescendingly.

"Why haven't you?" she shot back. "Oh, I know why he didn't choose you. It's because of your filthy little secret, Snape."

Snape looked murderous.

She turned back to Draco. "Don't you want to know who you will share your bed with?"

"I won't do it."

"You will."

"I will not!"

"You will do as you are told!"

"I will not!"

"Crucio!" Bellatrix was furious.

Draco fell to the floor, writhing in pain. It was unbearable, and it lasted a lifetime.

"Enough!" Snape pulled Draco up. "The Dark Lord will be displeased with you, Bellatrix, if you damage his pure-blood stud."

"You will do as you are told, Draco!" she screamed at him, inches from his face.

Draco didn't flinch.

Bellatrix appraised him. "She's a lovely little witch, Draco. You will enjoy her. Winifred Watson. I believe you have a history with Bunny. She is quite excited to be marrying you. Quite excited, if you know what I mean," Bellatrix taunted him, but he didn't respond.

"When is he expected to do this?" asked Snape.

"On the next new moon there will be a ceremony. The Dark Lord will marry as many pure-blood pairings as I can arrange: our little Malfoy here and Watson, Pucey and Randolph, Nott and Greengrass, Warrington and Davis, and many more."

"Former students of mine."

"Yes, Snape, they are. You should attend," she invited. "Oh, and Snape," she said, sneering, "wear black!" Bellatrix entered the Floo laughing insanely.

"I will not do it," Draco said, once she had gone.

"We have to come up with yet another plan. The next new moon is in three weeks." Snape paced the room, apparently deep in thought.

"I have to do something," Draco said.

"What is it?" Snape questioned.

"I need to see someone."

"Do not tell me anymore."

"I need to know where the passage is," Draco said urgently.

"I shall tell you; however you must be back on Monday by midnight. I will hunt you down if you are not back. The Dark Lord has entrusted me. I would not want him to get the wrong impression at this critical point. You must be careful not to get caught. The Ministry is still looking for you as well."

"I understand."
*

Draco ended the memory. He slumped over and put his head in his hands, trying to regain his composure. After a few moments, he looked into Pansy's eyes, hoping she would believe him.

The blood had drained from Pansy's face. She dropped her wand on the bed and put her hand over her mouth. A few tears rolled down her cheeks. Then she reached out and caressed his face with both of her hands.

I've been so upset about that photo and letter that I didn't see what was in front of me. I didn't think how horrible this must have been for him!

"I'm sorry for ever doubting you, Draco," she said, the tears flowing freely now. "I can't believe what you've gone through."

Draco breathed a sigh of relief. "Pansy, please don't believe anything, unless you hear it from me. I will not marry her. I'm going to marry you," he told her, pulling her close to him and wiping away her tears. He kissed her gently and held her in his arms, closing his eyes and thanking Merlin that she finally understood.

After a few minutes, he said, "Pansy, I have something for you. Accio rucksack."

He retrieved a green velvet sack which held a small, intricately carved, wooden box. He placed it on the bed between them, and she knelt before him to see what it was. He opened it, folded back several layers of green velvet and pulled out a pendant: a large emerald encircled with diamonds, on a substantial platinum chain.

Pansy gasped! It was magnificent! She had seen many jewels, including the Parkinson jewels that would one day be hers; but she knew this pendant was special the moment she saw it.

I don't believe this! He's going to give that to me! He wants to marry me! Oh, Branwen!

He kneeled and held up his left hand; she immediately placed her hand against his. Draco wrapped the chain around their hands and slipped the emerald between their palms.

"I, Draco Eadald Malfoy, present this pendant, as a symbol of my undying love and pledge of my future commitment, and I offer the Oath of Betrothal to you, Pansy Elizabeth Parkinson. Iureiuro Sponsalis." Draco waived his wand and a sparkling ring of magic haloed their hands.

"If you accept my proposal, you must make a declaration," he said softly.

Pansy had grown up reading romantic tales of witches and wizards. She knew what to do.

"I, Pansy Elizabeth Parkinson, accept this pendant as a symbol of our undying love and pledge of our future commitment, and I accept your offer, Draco Eadald Malfoy. We are hereby betrothed. Iureiuro Sponsalis." She waived her wand and a second sparkling ring of magic merged with the other, then disappeared into the emerald.

Draco unwound the necklace and gently placed it over Pansy's head. He untied the ribbon that opened the top of her silky witch's robe and positioned the pendant over her heart. He admired the effect against her milky white skin, and then passionately kissed the love of his life.

~ The End of Chapter Three ~

Fides Detineo Conceptus Temporalis Interclusio Virils Viscus is the charm for protection to prevent pregnancy (through) temporary blockage (of the) male the organ. Pansy had been practicing saying this complicated spell since last June. (The length of the spell is meant as a bit of a joke.)

Praestigiae Latesco is a Disillusionment Charm, an illusion to hide oneself.

Advoco Elfin Familiaris means call to one's aid the elf slave of the house. If there is more than one house-elf in a household or building, then the elf's name must be said in addition. Mostly used in an emergency. There are other ways of calling house-elves, but Draco chose this formal spell because of Dobby's estrangement from his parents' home.

Iureiuro Sponsalis is the spell to swear an Oath of Betrothal. Pansy and Draco used their left hands for this Oath because the heart is slightly to the left side of the body. Also, they needed to use their wands with their right hands.