DeathlikeSilence - Opulent Simplicity

7/30/2019 DeathlikeSilence - Opulent Simplicity

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Copyright Page

This book was automatically created by FLAG on November 1st, 2012, based

on content retrieved from http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5867644/.

The content in this book is copyrighted by DeathlikeSilence or their authorisedagent(s). All rights are reserved except where explicitly stated otherwise.

This story was first published on April 3rd, 2010, and was last updated on

March 11th, 2011.

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feature requests etc. to [email protected].
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Table of Contents

Summary

1. In Vain

2. The Boy and the Butterfly

3. Noblesse Oblige

4. A Crumbling Facade

5. Not Much of a Girl

6. Living in a Bubble

7. Charity

8. A Proposal and an Obligation9. Awkward Distinctions

10. Wonderful News

11. Flaring Tempers and Disarray

12. A Rainbow in the Mist

13. Making Amends

14. To Take a Risk

15. A Dose of His Own Contempt

16. Promises

17. Puddle of Wax

18. Opulent Simplicity

19. Envy

20. A Puzzling Error

21. A Gown Made for Royalty22. To Take a Risk, Part II

23. Kaleidoscope

24. Waking From Paradise

25. Unwanted Advice

26. A Lover's Lament

27. Caught

28. Honey Coated Promises

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29. Liberty

30. Splash of Colours

31. Hopes and Anticipation

32. The Twelfth of June

33. Royal Purple34. Fury and Fire

35. Turn Your Back on Paradise

36. All Colours Gone

37. Gilded Blood

38. Fly

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Summary

It is nearly two years after the war. Draco has completed his seventh year atHogwarts and now works in his new shop. His life is all set...until Luna Lovegood

appears, bringing unexpected surprises that may shatter his relationship with Pansyforever.

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In Vain

Disclaimer: All characters belong to J K Rowling, and I make no money by writingthis story.

Like the summary says, Draco went back to Hogwarts after Voldemort's defeatand completed his 7th year. Now he has a job selling dress robes in his brand newshop. I hope you all like the story and take the time to review. Enjoy!

One: In Vain

Her littlest pale finger, coloured delicately in pastel pink and varnished in outmostprecision, was raised high as she drew the opulent teacup closer to her lips. Her lipswere outlined with the same precision, and the smile on these lips hid both prideand secret ambitions. Her robe was of a more subtle shade and covered the longlegs crossed under the table. Not a single strand of hair was out of place; PansyParkinson looked prim and poised, yet also remarkably rigid.

For about the eleventh Sunday in a row, she was seated in the luscious gardens ofthe Malfoy Manor. Seated to her right was Mrs. Malfoy, who, with one quick glance

at her puritanical posture and the tightness of her bun, could be mistaken forPansy's mother. Sitting to Pansy's left, however, was Draco Malfoy; the only one ofthe three who looked severely out of place at this scene. Draco did not wear theambiguous, polite smile of a poised aristocrat, but instead donned an irritated scowlon his face. The rugged locks of his bangs had not been carefully combed, but weremessily strewed across his forehead. His own robes, though intrinsically expensiveand grand, had not been ironed and displayed a copious amount of wrinkles. He didnot hold his teacup with his little finger raised, but rather grasped the handle tightlywith all five fingers and drank it hastily. The two ladies watched him with an

eyebrow raised, but nothing was said. Lazily the party sat, as the sky's pinkish hueslowly descended and deepened into a dark blue.

"Draco, it is not decent to slurp," Narcissa Malfoy sharply scolded.

Draco shrugged, yet put his cup down on the table. "Isn't this just lovely?" Pansybroke in. "It's wonderful to spend the evening this way, don't you think, Draco? I'mso pleased that you've invited me again for tea with you and your mother."

"I don't exactly recall sending you any invitation to spend another day here,"

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Draco muttered under his breath. Indeed, this tea party had not been any part of hisplans for the day. Actually, he had distinctly promised Gregory Goyle, AjaxBulstrode, and Adrian Pucey that he would join them at a favourite pub at KnockturnAlley this evening. He had also made plans to join the group for a Quidditch matchprior to this, yet Pansy had found it fit to cancel those plans as well. She hadevidently decided that Draco should accompany her while she ran a list of tedious

errands, did her shopping, and then join her for tea in his own garden. Draco foundit difficult to wipe the scowl off his face. The others must have finished their gameby now and were likely heading for Willow's Tavern to finish off the night. Hisdiscontent, however, went unnoticed by the other two.

"See, isn't this much nicer than that silly Quidditch game you were going to goto?" Pansy squealed, locking her arm into Draco's and giving it a squeeze. "Besides,the weather was so distasteful. Your day would have been a waste, had I not brought

you along to Hogsmede to help me pick out new handkerchiefs and doilies."

Draco didn't answer, but grumbled a few inaudible words. The weather had not atall been unpleasant; it had been typical early May weather with brilliant sunshinefor the greater half of the day with a minimal amount of rain at sunset. PerfectQuidditch weather, in fact, Draco thought bitterly.

"Pansy dear, you do have the most exquisite taste," Narcissa remarkedapprovingly. "I hope you teach Draco a thing or two."

Pansy giggled and squeezed Draco again, trying to place her head on hisshoulders. Draco pushed away in disinterest, which Pansy did not notice.

"Speaking of taste," Pansy spoke in a sing-song tone. "You must see the new set ofearrings Elinore received for Easter. She's so lucky! If only I had a husband likeher." She eyed Draco with a mischievous smile as she finished.

Draco ignored her. Pansy had taken to praising her sister's new husband at everyopportunity she got. It was obvious that she was expecting a proposal, and found itnecessary to remind Draco as much as possible. After all, why wouldn't she wantDraco to marry her? She was treated as a daughter by the Malfoys, she wasPureblood, and Draco bought her everything she asked for. Lately though, Pansyhad begun to severely irritate Draco with her numerous demands and highexpectations, and he could not see himself proposing to her anytime soon.

Pansy moved her chair closer to Draco's and reached for his hair. "Drakie dear,

why don't you keep your hair combed back?" she pouted, combing his bangs withher finger. "You look much neater and more handsome."

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Draco gritted his teeth. Was Pansy deliberately trying to make Draco punch her?How many times had he explained to her that he did not like her giving him stupidnicknames? He decided that he had finally had enough rubbish for one night. "Myname is Draco," he snapped. "I have to open the shop tomorrow morning, so I'll haveto get up early. I'll see you ladies later."

With that, he stormed off. "Bye Drakie-poo," he heard Pansy purr after him.Resisting the urge to turn back and give her a hard blow to the mouth, Dracowandered off in the cool, moonlit night.

The sky was now a deep blue with bright, twinkling stars. The evening rain hadmade the ground damp, and the heavy scent of luscious flowers and grass of theManor garden floated to Draco's nose. Draco savoured the succulent fragrance,breathing in the beauty of the damp, cool night. All around him the earth shone in

the moonlight, looking fresh and clean. What a beautiful, spectacular show ofnature.

Moreover, what a terrible waste of a night.

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The Boy and the Butterfly

I'm thrilled that people are enjoying the story and have reviewed. Here's thesecond chapter, and I will have more soon. Please review!!

Two: The Boy and the Butterfly

"You missed a great party last night," Adrian was boasting, but Draco was barelylistening. "Everyone went! Millicent came with us and we ran into DaphneGreengrass and Marcus Flint there. Daphne got drunk off just three shots ofFirewhisky, you should've seen her mate...vomit everywhere, there was! I imagineshe's having a rough morning."

Goyle and Bulstrode sniggered as they remembered the antics of the previousnight. Draco scowled in jealousy, irritated at having missed out on the fun. "Fineone, that girl. I should've shagged her," Goyle broke in. "She was so out of it, and Icould tell she wanted it. There were too many people around...otherwise wewould've done it."

Adrian and Ajax howled with laughter. "Yes Gregory, I'm sure that she, being a

magnificent babe and all, was just aching to bang you," Draco snickered, rolling hiseyes.

He took a swig of his Butterbeer while the others laughed. Gregory turned scarletas he insisted that she was indeed interested in him. Seeing that no one wouldbelieve him, he shrugged and took a chug of his own Butterbeer. Goyle had certainlylost a lot of weight since he had left Hogwarts, but he was still large and awkward instature. He had broad shoulders and a haggard face with a scruffy beard. Dracocouldn't imagine any girl being attracted to him.

Draco heard the tinkling of the doorbell behind him, signalling that a customerhad just stepped inside Onyx, the new dress robe shop Lucious had bought for hisson. Draco didn't even bother looking up. "Twieck!" he snarled, and a nervouslooking house elf rushed over to help the customer.

"Well, forget about Daphne," said Ajax. "You should've seen what that bar ladywas wearing damn! Her robe was so tight and low-cut, and she kept bending

over...Now that is a fine woman. I wouldn't mind having a go at that."

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The others nodded in agreement. "And Marcus has gone and found himself a nicelooking chick too," Ajax continued. "She was there at the tavern too. The rack onthat one "

"I was shagging Pansy all right," Draco broke in, finally sick of hearing about theirnight. "I wouldn't have missed that for some lame night at the pub which we visit all

the time."

Adrian whistled. "I guess it must be nice not to have to go out for a shag."

Draco smirked. "Not that you losers would know what it's like to shag."

"I could get plenty if I wanted to," Gregory boasted. "I just haven't found the rightgirl yet."

The others sniggered loudly. Draco opened his mouth to reply but he found hisvoice leave him as he caught a glimpse of something interesting outside the shopwindow.

He felt as if he was a young child following a pretty butterfly. He had first caughtthe sight of her long golden hair, shimmering like diamonds under the rays of thesun. She had a small waist, yet her figure was full and plump in all the right areas."Now there is a real woman," he murmured.

The other boys had stopped and were now watching Draco. "She's wearing abloody Hippogriff!" Adrian howled as more of her figure came into view.

"Fuck off, it doesn't matter what she's wearing," Draco argued, though Adrian wasright. The girl was wearing a rather large, feathery garment which not only hid herperfect figure but also obstructed the prettiness of her face (which could only beassumed from the angle Draco was seeing her at) and shiny locks. She had alsodonned a large bonnet which was colourful and also decked heavily with feathers. Inher strange clothing combination she looked strikingly like a large, colourful cocoon.The others began roaring with laughter, but Draco ignored them, his gaze notleaving the girl for even a second.

Indeed, the girl's terrible clothes did not obstruct her beauty and elegance in theslightest. It wasn't even her hair or her fleshy body which was striking about her,but the pure grace and poise with which she walked. "Just look at the way shewalks," Draco continued. "And the way she holds herself...now this is a woman with

confidence. She looks like she knows exactly what she wants and how to get it...andI'm ready to give it to her, alright, so fast and hard that I'll leave her breathless.

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She'll be limping after one night with me!"

The other boys whistled. "If only I could see her face!" Draco moaned. "Man, howmuch I would give to see that gorgeous thing's face right now."

As if to answer his wish, the girl drew farther away from the window and turned

towards the shop door. "I think she's coming in!" Ajax said. "Bet you ten Galleonsthat you can't score with her."

"I'll bet you twenty that I can get her begging on her knees to see what a Malfoytastes like!" Malfoy retorted, as the girl inched closer and closer to the door.

The others waited with bated breath for her to enter the store, and when shefinally did, Draco's jaw dropped and the others let out loud hoots of laughter.

"LooneyLovegood?!" Draco spluttered.

Luna smiled, walking towards them in the same elegant manner. "Hi Draco," shesaid cheerfully, though she looked almost as surprised as he was.

"Wha you since when do you shop at designer stores?!" Draco exclaimed.

Luna did not answer but looked around curiously at the plethora of garments

displayed across the room. She wrinkled her nose. "I admit that it's not exactly mytaste "

"You, Looney, have no taste and thus shouldn't be in a shop as refined andexpensive as this one," snarled Draco, who had now overcome his initial shock. "Ifyou want clothes of your class, try sorting through the waste bins at the Weasley'sshack. You'll find that their torn rags and potato sacks will suit you perfectly and willbe in exactly your price range."

To Draco's annoyance, Luna did not look at all affected by his cruelty and insteadwandered over to a lime green dress robe. Angrily, Draco darted after her,determined to chase her out of his shop. "Don't touch that!" he snapped, "that's verydelicate fabric, and far beyond what you can afford. There are other shops nearby;go pester one of them!"

"Oh, I'm not here to shop," Luna said in her dreamy, oblivious voice. "I want toapply for a job here."

Draco gaped at her momentarily then burst into laughter. "A job? Here?" That's a

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good one, Looney."

Adrian, Gregory, and Ajax laughed louder at Luna's comment, but there was nochange in Luna's dreamy expression. "Wait you're actually serious?" Draco repliedin disbelief. It took him a moment to grasp his thoughts, and then he plainly replied,"we don't need any help here, especially from someone as er, someone like you. As

you can see, I have plenty of house-elves to manage the shop, so if you would just dous a favour and get the fuck out "

"Manners, Draco!" came a sharp barking from behind him. Draco turned to seethat Lucius had entered the shop from the back door and was now glowering at himwith intense disapproval.

"Father," answered Draco in relief, "father, Looney here has barged in looking for

a job. I don't know how to get rid of her!"

To Draco's shock, his father approached Luna and spoke, "I am very sorry for myson's impudence, Miss Lovegood. Please, shall we continue our interview in the backroom?"

Luna nodded, tearing away from the dress robes and making her way into theback room of the shop. Draco stood, dumbfounded, and he could tell that the otherswere equally puzzled. "Wait what?"

Lucius glared at his son. "Luna here is interested in working at Onyx, and I'veinvited her for a formal interview to review her qualifications. Now, do not ever letme hear you insult another customer in here again, or I can take the shop away fromyou in an instant."

Draco's jaws dropped open once more. Lucius's eyes wandered over to the otherboys and then to the pile of empty Butterbeer bottles lying idly next to the cashregister. "Need I remind you again, Draco," he snapped in irritation, "that I did notgive you this shop so that you could hang around with your idiot friends and drinkall day! Clear out these bottles at once and get back to work! And you lot," heturned, now glaring at the three boys, "either buy some robes or get out; this is noplace for loitering!"

He turned sharply and followed Luna into the workers' room, shutting the doortightly behind them. For a moment, no one spoke. "Tell me that this is a belatedApril Fool's joke," Draco stammered finally.

"I think he's serious," Gregory answered, stunned.

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"Well, I for one don't want to stick around and find out if he's joking or not," brokein Ajax. He picked up the remaining full bottles of Butterbeer. "Cheers, Draco. Havea pleasant time with your new co-worker!" He snickered and left the shop withGregory and Adrian trailing behind him.

"I'll see you at our next pub outing," Adrian called. "Or whenever you decide to

grow some balls and tell Pansy to fuck off!"

Their loud snickers drowned out the tinkling of the doorbell as they poured out ofthe shop. Angrily, Draco emptied the empty bottles in the dust bin with a flick of hiswand and seated himself at the cash register. All he could do now was wait for thisjob interview to finish.

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Noblesse Oblige

I'm thrilled that people are reading! Enjoy the next chapter and please review!!

Three: Noblesse Oblige

It seemed to Draco that he had been waiting for hours when the back room doorfinally opened. Luna came skipping out, cheerful as ever. "For now you will be paidsix Galleons per hour. Is this alright with you, Luna? We can negotiate somethinghigher later on, if you find that it's not enough," his father was saying.

"That's more than enough," Luna replied, beaming. "Thank you, sir."

"Good. I shall see you tomorrow then, Miss Lovegood. Shall we say nine o'clocksharp?"

Luna nodded happily, and skipped towards the exit. "Thanks again, sir. And byeDraco!" she called, sounding even happier at the prospect of working with him. "Iguess I'll be seeing you tomorrow."

Humming to herself, she left the shop. Draco watched her hideous hat almost get

knocked off her head by an enormous gust of wind, but Luna gripped it tightly andskipped out of sight.

He turned angrily to his father. "Are you out of your bloody mind?"

"What did I tell you about manners, Draco?" Lucius snarled.

Not wishing to anger his father yet still fuming over what had just happened,Draco couldn't resist shouting. "I mean,Looney Lovegood?Are you insane? Since

when were we even looking for help?"

"Watch your tongue boy!" Lucius snarled again, his voice reaching a dangeroustone. "Do not dare to shout, or you will most certainly regret disrespecting me!"

Draco lowered his voice, knowing that he'd better listen to his dad. "I just mean why her? This is myshop after all! You have no right to treat me like a child! It's mydecision who we hire, and we already have plenty of workers!" Draco's voice hadreturned to his original state, boiling with anger and frustration at the way he wasbeing treated.

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"What we have is a spoiled prat who treats his father's shop as a clubhouse for hispathetic little friends! If you do not want me to treat you as a child, then don't actlike one," Lucius answered coldly. "Luna came to me asking for a job. The Quibblerapparently isn't doing so well, and she desperately needs the money. Since my ownson doesn't care about responsibility, I figured that I might as well hand it to her."

Above everything he was feeling, Draco couldn't bear this huge insult coming fromhis own father. "Oh, so you choose a filthy pauper like her over me! I can't believethat you would treat your own Pureblood son this way. As if it wasn't enough thatI'm not allowed to make my own decisions about what I want to do with my life, nowI'm forced to work with useless peons "

"If you had an ounce of responsibility and motivation, you wouldn't have to beworking here in the first place!" Lucius boomed, finally losing his patience. "How

can I not be ashamed, when my son does nothing at all but drink at pubs withwhores and dimwits? I told you to apply for a ministry job, but that was too muchwork for you. I told you that I could pull a few strings for you. With your atrociousmarks you can't land a decent job anywhere else! What else do you expect me to do?Even that idiot Goyle boy has landed himself a decent, stable job in his father'soffice. That Zabini boy he's become an Auror for Merlin's sake! And you? I openedup this shop hoping that it would give you some sense of responsibility, and that atleast you would have somewhere to work and earn an income. That was all wishfulthinking, I see. Until you finally decide to shape up and do some work around here,

this matter is closed. Luna Lovegood will be working here from now on, you willtreat her well, and if I hear a single word of complaint from her, I will throw you outof my shop at once. Do I make myself clear?"

Draco had never seen his father's face this red. Draco nodded hastily, though hestill wasn't satisfied. "But father why Looney? You know that she's...not like us."

"What do you mean, 'not like us'? She is a Pureblood, isn't she?" answered Luciuscoldly.

"Well yes, but but she was in Dumbledore's Army for Merlin's sake! During thewar she fought against -"

"That was the past, Draco, long before the Dark Lord's defeat. Things are differentnow."

"You've seen her clothes!" Draco tried again desperately. "You can't argue "

"That can be taken care of. Luna will be given a uniform to ensure that she, er, is

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appropriately dressed."

Draco was silent. After a moment's pause, Lucius sighed. "I admit I am being a bitstern, Draco, by forcing you to work with her. But keep in mind this: not manypeople have forgiven us for being on the Dark Lord's side. We cannot live the rest ofour lives shunned by society. Hell, even the Goyles look down on us these days. We

have to slowly integrate ourselves again, you see, and make people forget. TheMalfoy name cannot be tainted with such shame."

Draco nodded thoughtfully. "So you mean-"

"Think of this as charity," his father replied with a small smile, "When people seethat we're no longer, er, prejudiced, we're bound to win their respects again."

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A Crumbling Facade

Thanks to everyone who's been reading, and especially to those who reviewed.Enjoy the next one, and please review!! The more reviews I get, the quicker I will

update :D

Four: A Crumbling Facade

Draco's day did not improve after coming home from the shop that evening. Hehad purposely stayed at work past his work hours, knowing that Pansy would clingto him as soon as he reached home. At half past eight, he had finally decided to closethe shop a bit early and had headed home. Unsurprisingly, Pansy was seated in hisliving room when he stepped out of the fireplace.

Dusting off the specks of Floo Powder, Draco stepped into the room with a sourexpression on his face. "Draco!" Pansy cried delightedly. She ran up to fling herarms around him, but he ignored her.

"I'm not feeling well," he muttered, heading to his bedroom. "I'm going to bedearly tonight."

"What's the matter, dear?" his mother asked him, concerned. "Shall I call for ahealer? Why are you so late today?"

Pansy frowned. "Were you with your friends? Don't tell me you've been at the puball this while!" she pouted.

"No, I wasn't at the pub," Draco snapped. "I was at the shop this entire time."

"My, you've been at work all this time? I'd better have a talk with your father

about overworking you," Narcissa replied. "If the shop is this busy, he should findsome more workers. He can't expect you to spend your whole day working!"

"No mum, it's not like that," Draco comforted her hastily. "It's just I had plenty ofstock to order." This wasn't a lie. To busy himself, Draco had drowned himself incatalogues for hours to order more robes.

Narcissa looked thoughtful. "Still Draco, next time I'd like you to be home in timefor dinner. You must be starving by now. Wash up now we've been waiting for youfor quite some time."

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Annoyed, Draco made his way to the washbasin. Ever since the war had ended,Narcissa had become uncomfortably overprotective. He washed his hands,grumbling to himself and then went into the dining room. Pansy and his motherwere already seated, still looking as though they were mother and daughter. Dracowasn't sure why, but something about this scene deeply disturbed him. Back whenhe was at Hogwarts, he had been ecstatic that his mother had taken such a liking to

his girlfriend. But now something had changed. He realized that Lucious had beenright; things were much different, now that the war had ended.

Realizing that he was indeed famished, Draco seated himself between his motherand Pansy. Within minutes, Lucius appeared and sat down on the other side of thetable, next to Narcissa. As the house-elves brought out platters of food, Narcissaturned to Pansy. "Pansy dear, why don't you ever bring your parents over? It hasbeen so long since we all dined together."

Pansy looked delighted. "Well they have been rather busy lately. Elinore alwayshas them over at her new house." She raised her eyebrow at Draco, who pretendedthat he did not understand what Pansy was trying to say. "But I'm sure that they'dabsolutely love to come for dinner, Mrs. Malfoy."

"Excellent," said Narcissa, beaming. "Isn't this wonderful, Draco?"

Draco did not answer. He took a generous helping of cauliflower soup and slurped

it hungrily. "Draco!" his mother scolded him. "Remember your manners! We havecompany."

"I'll tell you what," she said, turning her attention back to Pansy. "Bring yourparents to our annual party that we're throwing for Lucius's birthday. I haven't setthe date yet, but it'll be in a few weeks' time. How does that sound?"

"Lovely," Pansy responded. "It'll be like we're one big family." She shot Dracoanother look as she said this, which he once again pretended not to see.

"I shall owl them an invitation, in that case. And who knows, perhaps there will bea few surprises in store," Narcissa added, eying Draco with a hidden smile.

Deciding that he had endured enough in a day, Draco stood up. "I guess I'll leavenow. I've had a rough day."

"Absolutely not!" his mother exclaimed, shocked at her son's lack of manners. "We

haven't even had pudding yet."

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He sat back down angrily, though he was smart enough not to make his fatherangry in front of Narcissa.

While the house-elves went into the kitchen to empty their dirty utensils and tofetch dessert, Draco sat quietly while Pansy and his mother nattered. Lucius noticedthis.

"Why are we so quiet, Draco?" he drawled in his low, icy voice.

Draco shrugged. "I presume that you have either been shopping for handkerchiefsagain or have been with those dimwits again for the past few hours."

Draco did not answer, but this caught Narcissa's attention. "For your information,Lucius, your son has spent the entire evening slaving away at that wretched store of

yours! You really are too hard on him. You'll turn him into yourself always slavingaway at work, while the wife is left home all alone in boredom."

Lucius frowned. "Is this true, boy? Have you been at the shop all this time?"

He nodded dully. A tiny smile seemed to emerge from the corners of his father'smouth. "I must say, I am surprised. Perhaps even a bit...pleased. How many robesdid you sell, boy?"

Draco shrugged. "About twenty, I guess, since when you left the shop."

Lucius's smile disappeared, and his expression was again the regular disapprovingscowl. "You spent six hours in the shop and sold merely twenty robes?" he repeated.

Draco shrugged again, embarrassment creeping in. "I mean I was busy, youknow. I ordered lots of new stock."

Lucius frowned. "What is the use, I would like to know, of ordering more robes tosell when you are not capable of selling what we already have?"

Draco blushed furiously, avoiding Pansy's gaze. "I guess, I thought "

"Not to mention that we already placed a shipment less than a week ago," hisfather continued. "Haven't you noticed that the back room is overflowing with boxespacked with robes? Pardon me, I forgot that it's too much trouble for you to go intothe warehouse and to see how much merchandise we have. Where exactly were you

planning on keep all these new orders?"

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There was an embarrassed pause. Draco didn't know how to reply, but he feltextremely foolish at the moment. Pansy was feeling very awkward all of a suddenand looking at her feet. Narcissa was the first one to speak.

"Oh honestly, Lucius. Can't you keep this business talk away from the dinnertable? You're spoiling our evening. Besides, I'm sure Draco didn't mean to "

"I know he didn't mean to, but he should know better by now how a shop works!"Lucius retorted, beginning to flare.

A sudden stinging in Draco's throat signalled that he had had enough. Forcinghimself to swallow the large lump that had abruptly appeared, he stood up. "I'm notfeeling well. I might be sick. Goodnight." And he dashed off, not daring to lookbehind.

"But Mister Malfoy, your pudding!" squeaked a house-elf, carrying a large dish ofpear custard behind him.

Draco ignored her and kept running. He didn't stop until he had run the twoflights of stairs to this bedroom. There, he slammed the door shut and bolted ittightly.

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Not Much of a Girl

Thanks for the reviews! I hope you enjoy the next chapter, and please continuereviewing :)

Five: Not Much of a Girl

Draco did not emerge from his bedroom until the following morning. When he hadgotten dressed and went downstairs, his father was already gone to work. Uponentering the dining room he found his mother and Pansy sitting together as usual,sipping tea. Draco groaned.

Pansy looked up and grinned widely. "Drakie-poo, there you are! I was so worriedabout you last night!"

Draco did not answer her. Instead, he seated himself next to his mother andwaited for the house-elf to bring him his breakfast. "Did you stay the night here orsomething?" he couldn't help blurting out.

"Draco!" said Narcissa sharply.

"No silly," Pansy replied. "I just came a little while ago. You mother suggested I'dstay and wait for you to finally wake up. She suggested that she send the house-elfupstairs to wake you, but I told her to let you rest for a little while longer. Honestly,darling, you mustn't sleep in so late!"

Seeing as it was only quarter past eight, Draco wanted to argue that he hadn'tslept in at all, but realized it'd be futile to argue. The house-elf brought him a largeplate of food at that moment, and Draco gratefully busied himself in his omelette.

"Well?" Pansy spoke suddenly, sounding irritated.

Annoyed at having his breakfast interrupted, Draco gave her a blank stare. "Whatis it now?"

"Don't you notice anything new about me?" she said, fluffing her hair.

"You've gotten even more annoying?"

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Pansy giggled loudly. "You're such a tease, Draco!" she replied, failing to noticethe seriousness of his response. "I meant my new frock. How do you like it?"

Draco glanced up, forcing himself to tear away from his fruit salad. He wrinkledhis nose as he surveyed Pansy. "I don't," he responded flatly, returning to hisbreakfast at once.

Pansy again let out her high, fake giggle. "You're so ridiculous, darling! I knowyou mean to say that I look lovely."

"What I really meant to say is that you look dreadful in violet, Pansy dear,"responded Draco. "You look rather like a squat, enormous prune."

Indeed, Pansy did look horrid in this particular shade. The deep plum dress was in

itself rather pretty. It was cut lower in the front than Narcissa approved, thoughDraco had noticed that Pansy always wore the tightest, shortest garments wheneverhe was around. The sleeves were also cut short, and the neck was lined with largewhite beads. Tight in the midriff and stopping a few inches above Pansy's knee, thefrock left her long, smooth legs visible and exposed the lining of her chest.

Narcissa had been looking at her all the while in silent disapproval. "Pansy dear,"she finally spoke, ignoring Draco's comment. "I am not sure if that frock isappropriate for a young girl such as yourself. We can find you plenty of robes in your

size that are more...er, traditional."

Pansy giggled. "Mrs. Malfoy, all the girls wear this type of Muggle clothing thesedays. It's in fashion," she declared.

Narcissa did not reply. Draco, feeling that this was all he could stomach early inthe morning, rose from his seat. "Well, off to work. I will see you at dinner, mother."He glanced at Pansy hastily at this, wondering if she would get the hint that hedidn't want to see herat dinner too.

"Draco, it's still early," Pansy protested. "And besides, I'm coming with you!"

"Er, you're what?"

"I thought you could use some company. I miss you crazily when you're out thewhole day! Isn't this a splendid surprise? We'll have each other for the entire day!"Pansy beamed widely, throwing her arms open to embrace Draco.

When Draco did not hug her or even make the slightest attempt to move closer to

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her, she dropped her arms in frustration. "Besides, your shop can really use a girl'shelp," she added.

"As for that, father has already hired a girl, and so you do not need to drop in atall. You can stay home with mother instead, or even perhaps venture over to yourown house and spend some quality time with your own parents. I bet they missyou

tons when you're out the whole day at my house hey, why not make them a lovely din

"Your father hired whom?" Both Narcissa and Pansy had frozen at the news.Narcissa looked white and rigid. "Without speaking with me first?"

Pansy looked furious. "What girl? Why does she need to work with you? I say gofind your father at once and tell her you don't need any girl at that shop!"

Draco snickered. "Yeah, already tried that. He says he'll not change his mindabout Luna working at the sh-"

"LunaLovegood?" Pansy burst out with relieved laughter. "Ha, and you had me soworried there for a moment. Silly, Luna's not much of a girl I'd be more worriedover a toad stealing you away from me than her! Ha ha! Imagine that, LunaLovegood."

Narcissa too looked enormously relieved. "Honestly, your father does go a bit too

far sometimes with his antics. I've not heard of something so ridiculous. I cannotimagine a single reason why he'd hire someone like her to run our shop. "

"I can," retorted Draco. "Clearly he's angry at me for something, and thought thatthis would be the worst punishment."

Pansy giggled. "Or maybe he's making you work with her to show you how luckyyou are to have me. Honestly, a day with that lunatic would make you never want tobe with another female again. Now you'll realize that beautiful, proper girls don'tcome around easily these days I should be thanking you father!"

She grabbed Draco's hand and dragged him to the fireplace. "Come now, we don'twant to be late for work! This day will be much more amusing than I thought."

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Living in a Bubble

I only received three reviews for the last chapter, so I hope that people are stillreading! Thank you very much to those who did review, and I hope you continue

reviewing. I know that nobody likes Pansy, but I assure you that there will be lots ofDraco/Luna interaction later on. In the meantime, I hope you all enjoy this chapter!

Six: Living in a Bubble

Despite Draco's efforts to shoo Pansy back home, she refused to leave his sight.Draco had never imagined that he would ever actually want Pansy to go to hishouse. Pansy seemed thrilled to be able to follow him to work, however, so hedecided that trying to convince her would prove fruitless.

The nearer the clock approached to the ninth hour, the tighter Draco's stomachfelt. He had already been dreading working with Looney, but now that Pansy wasclinging so tightly to his arm, he could imagine nothing worse than being in thismoment right now. He ached desperately for the day to pass entirely, preferablywithout his having to actually live through it.

Is there a spell to make time go faster? He wondered desperately. Or one to skip

over a couple of hours, perhaps even entire weeks or years...?

He tried to remind himself that this was no big deal; that he could simply ignoreLooney and mind his own business. But with Pansy's presence, he knew that shewouldn't leave Luna alone and would be harassing her for as long as she remainedin the shop.

Draco barely paid any attention to his customers. Of course, he never really paidattention to them, as he was always too busy drinking with the gang and since the

house elves were prepared to manage the shop anyway. Today was different,however, since his mind was focused on something else. He realized abruptly thatwhat was bothering him wasn't that he had to deal with Looney Lovegood, but thathe had to deal with Pansy. These days, the shop was the only place where he couldbe away from her and get some peace, and she was invading this now too.

Draco glanced bitterly at the clock. "Hm, maybe she won't come," said Pansygrumpily.

"You're right, she's probably frolicking around with some schnazzerdooples or

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something. Why don't you leave? It'll get very boring here, believe me."

Pansy sighed. "I could never be bored without you, darling," she said dreamily,reaching for his lips.

He let her kiss him, though the weight in his stomach had not subsided. "Draco,"

she moaned softly in his ear, breaking away from his lips. "When will we...youknow...?"

Draco gulped, pulling away from her. "I should really be checking the "

Pansy snatched his arm and pulled him towards her. She dropped on the sofa andDraco felt himself seated next to her, trying to avoid her eyes. "I'm serious," Pansypouted. "We've been going out for years now, and still we haven't made love. What's

wrong?"

Draco shrugged. "Are you are you a virgin?" she asked softly.

He gulped, his throat suddenly becoming very dry. "Erm, of course not. I've doneit...plenty of times in fact."

"Then why not with me?" Pansy demanded, her voice full of hurt.

"Well...I just don't think we're ready for it yet," mumbled Draco. "I mean...it justhasn't been the right moment..."

"That's a lie and you know it!" protested Pansy. "We've had plenty ofopportunities. How can we not be ready, when we've being dating since we wereabout fourteen?"

Draco shrugged, his words failing him. "I'm just waiting...for the right moment,you know. Wouldn't it be better to save it for...I don't know, save it until we'remarried?"

He was afraid that Pansy would see right through this, but to his surprise, herface suddenly shone with delight. "You mean that?" she squealed. "You really wantus to get married?"

"Er, yeah sure."

She gave another squeal and tightly pressed herself against him. "I knew it! OhDraco...of course we can wait! I never knew that this is what you wanted. Oh, how

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foolish of me!"

Draco almost felt guilty, knowing that his words had been entirely hollow. Sure,Pansy was incredibly annoying, but she didn't deserve to be hurt. But then again, hewasn't really hurting her, was he? Sure, right now the mere thought of sleeping withPansy was unappealing, but surely he would be up for it later on...right? So he

hadn't really lied to her, he just hadn't entirely meant what he had said.

Forcing himself to believe this, Draco wrapped his own arms around her and drewher close to him. Burying his face into her shoulder, he took a whiff of her short,cleanly trimmed hair. It smelled strongly of perfume, opulent and expensive. At thefirst whiff it was fine, somewhat even pleasant... but as he drew another breath andthen another, the perfume seemed to repulse him. It was in fact too heavy, and toorich...it was like the more he took her in, the more artificial she smelled. Finally growi

Thankfully, Pansy did not notice. Draco looked out of the window, feeling anunexplainable pang of melancholy. He watched figures drift by, growing envious ofthe way they held themselves and how carefree they looked. He caught sight of amost remarkable figure; fresh and graceful, poised and firm, floating rather thanactually walking...as if she lived in a silvery, impenetrable bubble which had theworld at its feet... Glancing at the figure's wild, loose, golden waves, Draco wassuddenly hit with a pang of envy, knowing full well that this girl didn't smell ofchemicals...

"She's here," Pansy said suddenly, breaking him away from his reverie.

He glanced up as Luna entered through the door. "She could have at least had thedecency to fix her hair," said Pansy disapprovingly.

Luna floated towards the pair. "Hello Draco," she said dreamily, gazing around theshop.

Pansy raised her eyebrows at her. "What is thatyou're wearing?"

Draco hadn't even noticed her garments, which seemed very strange to him now.Today she was wearing something even more flamboyant than yesterday. With alarge, bulky scarf wrapped around a brown, fluffy frock, she still resembled a largecocoon.

"Do you like it?" asked Luna brightly. "I knitted the scarf myself a few years ago."

"Like it?" Pansy burst out. "It looks like it's made out of a dead flamingo!"

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"Actually, I used owl feathers," Luna corrected her, looking pleased. "I had a lot ofthem lying around in my chest, so I figured they should be put to good use."

Failing to notice the bewildered look on Pansy's face, Luna turned to Draco. "So,what shall I do first? Does the floor need sweeping?" she added, looking behind herand realizing that she had left a trail of owl feathers around the store.

"Er " Draco was too astounded to speak. "I I thought father was getting you auniform?"

Luna shrugged. "I haven't received anything from him yet. I don't know how I feelabout wearing a uniform, though I guess I might have to in order to work here say,tell your father that I'm severely allergic to fish scales and daffodils, if he's making anew robe for me."

"Yeah, I'll get right on that," Draco responded hastily, as if these materials wereused all the time in dress making.

"None of the robes in the store now are made of them, are they?" Luna askedsharply.

"Er, no, I can you assure that. We switched brand names, after customerscomplained about the excess of trout in their clothes," Draco snickered.

Luna stared at him as if he was insane. "Trout? Who would make a robe out oftrout scales?"

"Foolish people," Draco assured her quickly. He glanced at the door and realizedthat more customers were coming in, and he definitely did not want them to catch aglimpse of Looney Lovegood in fear that they would change their minds aboutshopping there. "Anyway, why don't you go into the back room, and, er, dust off thecardboard boxes?"

"Alright," said Looney, her face lighting up. "It's a good thing I remembered tobring my feather duster."

She pulled out an enormous multi-colored feather duster from her purse as Dracohastily shoved her towards the back room door. Once she was safely inside, Pansyburst into laughter. "It's a bit late for an April Fool's prank though, isn't it?" shechortled.

"I don't think this is a prank at all," Draco replied grimly.

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Charity

I got more story alerts and reviews for the last chapter, so I'm pleased to see thatpeople are reading. Here is an extra long chapter. I have the next few chapters

already prepared, and I'll post them as soon as I get some reviews! Thanks toeveryone who has reviewed, and I hope you all enjoy this chapter!

Seven: Charity

The hours seemed to soar for Luna. She had expected to have been put in chargeof the cash registers or to aid customers, but Draco had surprised her by giving hervery odd tasks. After dusting the back room for nearly an hour, Draco had finallyallowed her back into the shop for a few minutes. She had remarked that though

dusting had been relaxing, it would have been more practical if he'd allowed her touse magic. Moreover, she didn't understand why Draco had wanted all the cartonsdusted when nobody was using them or would even see them anyway.

After the dusting, Draco had put her in charge of counting all the boxes she haddusted. This was a tedious chore, but Luna finished it nonetheless. Bored andwishing to get out of the back room, Luna emerged from the dark, stifling chamberand found Draco by the till.

"Luna! We have customers! Go back in the back room!" Draco hissed.

Luna was confused. "But why?"

"Because I said so, Looney, now if you don't want to follow directions then you aremore than welcome to quit," he snapped.

"I'm afraid I'm not particularly fond of that room," Luna announced. She seated

herself next to Draco. "I'll take over here now. I've already finished counting theboxes twice, but if you still want to make sure you can do it yourself."

Draco looked angry for a minute. "You know what? You've been working so hardthat you deserve a break. Go, Loon er, Luna, get some lunch and take your time. Imean that. Take as many hours as you need perhaps you'd even fancy some time toget a bit of shopping done or something."

Luna shook her head. "That wouldn't be responsible of me, would it? Besides, I'vealready brought a lunch."

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Draco desperately scrounged his pockets and pulled out a handful of gold coins."No matter. Take this and buy yourself a better lunch. Buy anything. Just make sureyou take a long, long time to find something perfect."

Luna frowned. "I don't want anything, thanks. Is there anything you wanted? Whydon't you take a nice long break and get something to eat, while I look after the shop

for now."

"Yes, there is indeed something I want," Draco said quickly. "I'm starving, and Ibet Pansy is too. Take these coins and buy us something to eat."

"Alright!" Luna pocketed the coins. "What shall I get you?"

"Anything, anything," Draco muttered, trying to shoo her away. "Bring us a nice

surprise. Remember, take your time. Go to every shop until you find somethingspecial, okay?"

Luna nodded, content to have this fun errand. "I won't disappoint you," shepromised as she stepped out the door.

"I know you won't," Draco muttered, shutting the door loudly after Luna.

Not long after Luna left the shop, the bell on the door began to jingle. Draco

groaned and Pansy scowled, dreading the possibility that Luna was back. Instead ofLuna, it was Goyle, Pucey, and Bulstrode who sauntered in. "Yeah, I'd like to buy adress robe please, sir," Ajax announced, clearing his throat.

"Father's not here," Draco answered dully.

"In that case..." The boys pulled out a handful of beer bottles and passed one toDraco. Adrian offered one to Pansy, who wrinkled her nose in disgust and stormedaway in irritation at having her time with Draco interrupted.

Draco took a swig of his Butterbeer and sighed. "When will this bloody day beover?"

"Say, what happened to Looney Lovegood? Where is that gorgeous thing youcouldn't keep your eyes off of?" Goyle broke in.

"Shut up, Gregory," Draco snarled. "It's not funny. She's been driving me insane."

"But we thought that she's a real woman, brimming with confidence. We were

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expecting to see her limping after you'd banged her hard and fast...but where is she,Draco?"

The others hooted with laughter as Draco tipped his bottle in anger, leaving apuddle of Butterbeer on the floor. He was grateful that Pansy was out of earshot,otherwise he really would have had it. "She's a nightmare, honestly. I've only just

managed to get rid of her. For now, at least."

Draco wiped away the floor with his wand and took another swig. At that moment,one of the family house elves apparated into the shop, carrying a large parcel. "Ah,lunch has arrived," he said, satisfied.

"Madam sent this for you, sir," the elf squeaked. Draco took the parcel, thankedthe house elf hastily, and set it next to the cash till.

"Great timing too; I'm starving," said Adrian, and the boys began unwrapping thefood at once. Pansy came to join them. Mrs. Malfoy had packed extra food today,knowing that Pansy would be joining Draco for lunch; hence the lunch tin wasoverflowing with a delectable prawn dish, salad, fruit, and custard.

The boys lingered around the cash counter, not bothering to seat themselves asthey ate. Pansy sat alone at the small table she had demanded the house elves to setfor her, still displeased that Draco's friends had joined the two. Luna Lovegood had

slipped their minds entirely.

While the group was immersed in conversation and the scrumptious meal Mrs.Malfoy had prepared for them, the door opened once more. A short, young man witha flushed round face entered, looking thoroughly confused. This was the very shophe had been looking for, but it seemed to him that he was in the wrong place. Theshop was surprisingly empty. A few house elves were scattered here and there,tidying the place, but he could see no workers or customers.

The man walked further inside, immediately spotting a group of young men diningat the till. He cleared his throat nervously. "Er, excuse me...could you tell me whereI may find "

One of these men, the pale blonde-haired one, looked up at him sharply. A spark ofrecognition flashed in both men's eyes at once "you!" they both exclaimed insurprise.

"What are you doing here, Longbottom?" the blonde haired boy snarled. "This isn'tthe type of shop your kind of scum shops in."

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Neville was infuriated. "I have no intention of givingyou any business, Malfoy," hesneered. "Clearly I'm in the wrong place. I must have mixed up the name of anothershop with yours."

"That's not surprising. You were never bright, were you?"

Neville ignored his insult. "I was looking for a friend who I heard is working here.Obviously I'm wrong I'll leave at once."

As he turned to leave, the door burst open and in skipped a young, blonde lady,whistling to herself and carrying a small parcel. "I've brought lunch!" she announcedblissfully. "Sorry I took so long."

It had taken her longer than she had anticipated. She had not been sure what

Draco and Pansy wanted, and the amount of gold Draco had given her had madeshopping awkward. Luna had never spent this much money on a meal, and shedefinitely wasn't comfortable doing so for someone else. She hadn't been sure ifDraco had meant for her to use all of it, or if he had intentionally given her extragold.

"Luna?" she heard a familiar voice call, and she turned to see Neville.

"Neville!" Delighted, she ran over and threw her arms around him. "I thought you

were in Wales. Why didn't you tell me you're coming?" Neville was still in shock andthus unable to hug her back. "Why what you workhere?" he spluttered out.

Luna nodded, her eyes wide and her loose blonde locks bobbing as she moved herhead. "Draco's father gave me a job here! Isn't it wonderful?"

Neville was stunned. "Er I don't know what to say."

Draco and his friends were now watching with intense curiosity. Even Pansy hadleft her cosy table and was now standing next to her boyfriend and clutching hisarm, glaring at Neville and Luna in disgust. Luna was the only one who didn't seemto notice the sudden tension that had filled the room.

"I didn't know what to buy," Luna said, turning to Draco. "So I went into the pieshop and bought a variety of pies. There are two sausage pies with potato andmelon, and three each filled with asparagus, radish, cheese, and chocolate pudding.Plus a few of my favourite: ham, tomatoes, bacon, chives, raisins, and peanut butter.

Here's the change; it really wasn't expensive."

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Draco stared at her, dumbfounded. "Thanks, but though as delicious as all thatsounds, we've already eaten."

Luna's jaw dropped open. "But you sent me to buy you lunch "

Draco sighed. "Well, yes, but then our house-elf appeared with a freshly prepared

lunch from my mother. I can't hurt her feelings by not eating it, can I?"

"Oh, I see." Luna couldn't stifle her hurt feelings in her voice. "That's okay,though. You can save the pies for later and here, the change."

She reached out her hand to give Draco his money, but he ignored it. "It's alright.You can keep the change. What's a few gold coins to me? You can even take the piesfor you and your er, friend. How nice it was of him to have come all the way here

to meet you." Draco glared at Neville in disgust as he spoke these words. "You'veworked hard, take the rest of the day off and enjoy your lunch."

Luna, however, did not budge. It suddenly dawned on her at that very momentwhat the Malfoys really thought of her. Using all her might to stifle the tears thatwere threatening to leak out of her eyes, she shook her head strongly. She laid thecoins carefully on the counter in front of Draco, as well as the parcel of pies. "Youcan be as rude as you want to me," she said quietly, her voice quivering slightly."You can treat me with contempt and hide me in the back room so that no one of

your class has to set his eyes upon a pauper like me. I'll take your rudeness, andyour insults, and the shame and loathing with which you see me. But I will neveraccept your charity."

With that she turned around, leaving the shop with the same dignity and poisewith which she had entered it.

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A Proposal and an Obligation

Thanks to my two faithful reviewers! You guys are what make writing fan ficsworthwhile. I hope more people reply to this chapter though, even if it's just a brief

sentence or two. Unfortunately, Pansy will not disappear for a little while, but I findher presence is what makes the story amusing. She's the perfect antagonist, and I'lltake your complaints of Pansy as an indicator that I've characterized her well. Enjoythe eighth chapter, and please review! I'll put up the next chapter very soon.

Eight: A Proposal and an Obligation

Luna's eyes were still filling with tears as she followed Neville in silence. Theywere at a park, strolling leisurely in the brilliant sunshine. The park was filled with

children and families enjoying the weather, and many picnics were laid on the grass.Luna wished that she could also enjoy this lazy day, but there was something uglycaught in her throat.

"Forget about Draco," Neville said grimly, noticing Luna's silence. "He's a git.We've always known that. What I don't understand is why you're putting yourselfthrough this."

"I need the money," was all Luna could muster.

"This isn't like you at all," Neville told her gently. "Why should you take rubbishfrom Draco Malfoy for money? Find another job."

"I can't," Luna mumbled, though she knew Neville was right. This wasn't like herat all Luna was proud and never allowed herself to be disturbed by such littleinstances. "It's not just The Quibbler, Neville it's it's father..."

Neville nodded glumly. "Yes, Ginny mentioned in her letter that your dad is ill..."he trailed off.

This time Luna couldn't stop the tears from gently running down her face. "Wherewill I go, if... I'll have no one, Neville," she sobbed. "I need this job. The Malfoys arepaying me well, even if they're not fond of me. It's really not that bad. Draco isalright."

Neville was silent. He softly took her hand and sat her on a bench next to him."Your father will be fine," he assured her, though he himself was not convinced.

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"Don't say that you won't have anyone. You'll still have us; you'll always have us.Ginny, Harry, and I...we'd never abandon you if anything happens to your father."

Luna shrugged, wiping her face. "Working with that scumbag will only make youfeel worse. Quit now. Luna, I've learned a lot since the war ended. I've learned neverto take crap from anyone, especially from people like the Malfoys. But you you've

always been confident and strong! Forcing yourself to put up with that filth whenyou're in a vulnerable situation will just break your self-esteem. Get out of that jobbefore you get hurt."

"But " Luna began to protest.

Neville took a deep breath. "Actually, I came to talk to you about something." Helooked down at his feet and nervously began. "Luna...you know how I feel about

you."

Luna was silent, suddenly feeling awkward. "I've always felt this way," hecontinued. "Who else do I have, really? I mean, we've been through so muchtogether, and we've known each other for long now. It's only logical."

"Sometimes what's logical isn't the best thing," Luna said dreamily, her gazestraying away from Neville.

Neville was puzzled for a second, but continued. "I'm serious. I love you, Luna."He took her hand nervously. Luna avoided his gaze in embarrassment. "Please,come to Wales with me. I'll help you take care of your father. You don't have to workfor Malfoy any longer."

Luna hesitated, then pulled her hand away from Neville's. "I don't know..."

As disappointed as Neville was at Luna's hesitation, he wasn't surprised. "I knewyou'd feel that way," he mumbled. "And I can understand why."

For a peculiar instant, Draco's image flashed into Luna's mind. A little voice in herhead whispered his name in low, hushed syllables. Luna frowned for a second, butthen shook off the peculiar thought from her mind, forcing herself to concentrate onher friend's words. "You do?"

"Of course. You're not like me; you're not as boring and practical. I know yourunpredictability and spontaneity, and I know that you want excitement in your life,"

Neville said simply. "I also know that marrying someone as plain and boring as me,who you've been friends with for years and nothing more, wouldn't be your first

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choice. I can tell that you just want to wait for a prince to sweep you off your feetand give you the romantic and exciting life that you've always anticipated."

Luna was surprised at how true Neville's words were. She was waiting for aspecial person - someone whom she did not yet know, but whom she had beenbewitched by countless times in her dreams. She couldn't see herself settling in so

easily with someone as familiar and safe as Neville. Where would be the romance,and the passion and excitement, in something so predictable?

The wordsDraco Malfoyshot into her mind once again, and this time she wasthoroughly puzzled. How could her thoughts wander away so? Draco Malfoy hadnothing to do with what she was thinking about now; it was entirely irrelevant.Perhaps she was more upset by his rude behaviour than she had thought. But whatpuzzled her was that it wasn't his insolence which she had found herself pondering,

but the way his boyish grin seemed to brighten the solemn, disturbed look in hiseyes. Before she knew it, Luna's mind drifted deeper into this sudden mental imageof Draco's face, and Luna found herself thinking of his messy golden hair. She hadnever thought of it before, but she found it charming and even fascinating thatdespite his formal, conservative attire, his hair was always so wild; alwaysuncombed and strewn across his smooth, pallid forehead. It was untameable, andthis untameable part of Draco delighted Luna.

Embarrassed, Luna pulled herself away from this reverie when she realized that

Neville was staring at her. "You're right," she admitted. "That's exactly what I'mlooking for."

Neville sighed. "I'm sure everybody's looking for that," he said. "It would bewonderful if the perfect person would just pop into one's life and then everythingwould suddenly fall into place. But life doesn't work that way. Eventually you have tobe practical. You have to take what's in front of you, because you can't just waitaround for that one special person forever. Otherwise, you might end up waitingforever until you have no options left."

He reached for Luna's hand again. "And I cannot think of a better time than nowto settle in. Maybe you just don't understand loneliness right now, but it's a horridthing to be alone, and to know that you will always be this alone. I'm begging you tothink this through; I don't want you to wait around forever to only have your heartcrushed."

Luna suddenly felt insulted. "Of course I know what loneliness is like, and you of

all people should know that. What friends did I have before you? Who do I havenow? If you think that I am not capable of feeling wretched hopelessness at the fact

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that I have never had a man in my life, and that I possibly never may find anyonewho wants to spend his life with Loony Lovegood, then you do not understand me atall."

"But I do understand you, and that's why I think you should seriously consider myproposal," Neville gently argued. "We may have different personalities, but we are

very alike. We've both been exposed to loneliness at a young age; you with theabsence of your mother and I with my parents. We've both grown up that way, andnobody else can relate to this misery which we both share. This is exactly why weshould be together."

Luna didn't know what to say. On the one hand, it wasNeville; her best friend, butalso somebody she had never had those types of feelings for. Marrying him would bethe last thing she would willingly agree to. But on the other hand, Neville did have a

point. Why waste a lifetime waiting for the perfect man, when there was no certaintythat the perfect one would ever arrive? Was it not better to simply hold on to whatshe already had, and be grateful for having at least that? She now felt as if she wasobligated to accept his proposal.

"I'm still not sure," she said softly.

Neville gave her hand a squeeze. "Don't make up your mind yet," he pleaded."Please, just think it over. Take as much time as you need to make your final

decision."

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Awkward Distinctions

I was so surprised and happy to see so many review alerts and reviews after Ipublished the last chapter! Thanks for everyone who reviewed, and as promised,

here's another chapter. This one is a short one, but I'll post the next one as soon as Iget a few reviews ;) Something important just might happen in the next chapter,which you won't want to miss...

Nine: Awkward Distinctions

After this, Luna dreaded going to work every day. Now that she had realized thatshe was not wanted by the Malfoys, Draco didn't even bother to address her eventhough she had to work beside him. He sat at the cash till the entire day and did not

even bother to leave his seat expect during lunch hour, when he would get Twieck totake over. All in all, Luna didn't mind Draco. He wasn't polite, but he wasn'tparticularly bothersome either. He seemed to be preoccupied with other things andthe creases on his forehead and his furrowed eye brows indicated to Luna that hewas distressed about something, though he kept his troubles to himself. What wasmore, he seemed perpetually melancholic. There was an unmistakable sadness in hiseyes, but Luna could not figure out what was upsetting him this much. It was thusalways quiet now in the shop, especially since Draco's friends were no longer

allowed there. Luna had learnt from Twieck that Lucious had put a jinx in the doorwhich alerted him every time one of Draco's friends entered the shop. The shopnever received more than handful customers at a time, so Luna was consistentlywandering around and fidgeting idly; she had plenty of time to sit around or work onThe Quibbler, and she knew that she was more than welcome to leave the shop earlywithout having to worry about her pay. Luna did not do this however, as she feltuncomfortable taking advantage of the Malfoys' so-called generosity.

Luna did not mind this peace and quiet. No, the awkward silences weren't what

made her dread getting out of bed every morning. It was Draco's girlfriend who didthat. Pansy would drop by frequently, though no longer staying for long hours at atime. It was Pansy who reminded her where she stood in the social hierarchy. It wasPansy who made her feel inadequate and inferior.

She normally visited during lunch time, so Luna typically used this hour to get outof the stifling shop and eat her packed lunch while she wandered around DiagonAlley. Sometimes she wasn't able to avoid Pansy, however, and during that timePansy would be so cruel and rude to Luna that she could do nothing other thanreconsider Neville's proposal.

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This day was one of those days. The shop was emptier than usual as it was rainingheavily, and Pansy had decided to stay for a long time as she did not have enoughcreativity to make use of this cold, dreary day. Upon entering, she had scowled atLuna and had criticized her clothes as well as her "wretchedly sloppy" hair, whichshe had then compared to a bird's nest. She had also scorned at Luna's muddyshoes, and had proudly straightened her own prim, tidy robe to show Luna what a

"real lady" should look like. Luna merely pointed out that it was difficult to keepone's shoes spotless in the murky weather, and that a real lady would also havesubstance and personality. Luna thought that she had seen a smirk on Draco's faceat this answer, but he had not said anything. Angrily, Pansy had sent Luna out tobuy her some magazines and was pleased to see that Luna looked even grimier anddishevelled when she returned.

After this episode, Pansy had repeatedly sent her out in the rain to run more

useless errands for her until she realized that Luna was enjoying venturing into therain and being away from her and Draco. Angrily, she ordered Luna to set up a tablefor her and Draco to eat lunch on. Luna hastily complied.

"You can take a break too," Draco said quietly to Luna's surprise.

"Um, it's alright. I brought my own lunch, so I can just eat while I mind the till."

Draco shrugged curtly and turned away from Luna, joining Pansy at their candlelit

table. Luna abruptly felt awkward. On one end of the shop were two handsome,elegantly dressed people enjoying a luxurious meal that cost more money than Lunaspent in an entire week. Even their table was beautifully covered with a delicatecloth and illuminated by large, fragrant candles, as well as an attractive bouquet oflilies perched at the very center. They looked as if they were dining in an expensiverestaurant rather than taking in a quick meal inside a clothing shop.

Then, in the other end of the shop was Looney Lovegood, clad in cheap, absurdrags which she had knitted itself - soiled, messy, and pathetic. No expensive candles,tablecloths or luscious lilies were to be found around her. No, all that was in thiscorner was a childish little girl in tattered garments and next to her a tired house elfwhose filthy rags may have well been her own. Luna gazed at the exquisite pair insudden jealousy, absorbing in their beauty and radiance. A tear fell down her cheekand she quickly wiped it away.

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Wonderful News

Yay, more reviews and story alerts/favorites :D Thank you to everyone who's beenreading and reviewing. I have an announcement to make with this chapter update.

In about three weeks, I'm traveling to Asia for the whole summer, which means Iwon't be able to update until September. I'll try my best to have the story completedbefore I leave, but I can't make any promises as there's still a lot left. I'll try toupdate frequently from now on, and I hope you all keep reviewing regularly so Ihave motivation to update. Enjoy the chapter, and I'll put up the next one as soon asI can!

Ten: Wonderful News

Draco came home that evening with a burst of relief: Pansy was dining at hersister's house tonight. She had been eating at the Malfoy Manor for weeks now, andDraco felt as if a huge weight had been lifted from him at this break. Smiling, hechanged out of his work robes and washed up for dinner. How spacious andcomfortable the dining room seemed to him tonight! The house elves had preparedcrepes with smoked salmon, which Draco found tasted better than usual in Pansy'sabsence. Tonight Draco could eat as much as he wanted without Narcissa fussingover his lack of table manners. He helped himself to the artichoke salad, which was

laden with a rich, creamy dressing the type which wasn't allowed at the Malfoyswhen Pansy was over, because of her ridiculous diets. He had an extra serving ofpotatoes as well, which was drenched in enough butter to give Pansy nightmares.Draco chewed softly, savouring the pleasantness of being away from Pansy.

"My Draco, I haven't seen you look this happy in a long time," his mothercommented.

Draco nodded blissfully. "Did you have a good day at work? Is that why you're so

happy?" Narcissa persisted.

He shook his head, taking another big, flavourful bite. His mother suddenly grewconcerned. "Does it have anything to do with Pansy? Are you two you're not Ihope that you both behave decentlytowards each other "

Draco began to choke on his potatoes. "Mum!" He shot a look at Lucius, who wascarefully avoiding his gaze.

Her lips thinned. "Hm, I just want to make sure that you kids know what is

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acceptable and what isn't. It's horrifying what young people these days are up to.Bear in mind that Malfoys do not tolerate such...inappropriate activities beforemarriage."

Draco was still coughing. "Yes, mum, I know."

Narcissa looked satisfied. "Good," she said as the house elves collected theirdinner plates and laid out the pudding. "Now that we have that clear... I have somegood news."

Draco loaded his plate with pineapple slices and cashew pudding, barelyinterested in his mother's news. His mother took a sip of her tea and announced,"I've set the date for Lucious's party for the twelfth of June."

"Isn't that a bit late, mum?" asked Draco, glancing over at his father. "Dad'sbirthday is at the end of May."

Lucius cleared his throat. "Er, yes, you see, we have something very specialplanned for the evening."

"Well, what is it?" Draco asked, suddenly aware that his parents were both lookingat him strangely. Narcissa gave a loud sniff and a small tear escaped her eye. Dracowas growing impatient.

"We've decided we want to tell you you and Pansy are getting engaged!"

"What?" Draco shrieked, knocking his plate to the floor. The glass shattered atonce, spilling food over the rug.

"Isn't it wonderful news?" Narcissa exclaimed, now failing to stop her tears fromfalling. "If only your aunt were here..."

"I am not marrying Pansy!" Draco snarled.

"Draco, watch your tone!" Lucious thundered.

Draco ignored him. "What gives you the right to decide that I'm getting engaged?"he demanded.

"Oh Draco, don't be so foolish," his mother replied. "It's a perfect idea. We all

know it's bound to happen, so why not now? Pansy is a wonderful Pureblood girl andI can't wait to make her a part of our family. Her parents and I have already

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discussed it and have decided that it would be best for you to propose at yourfather's birthday party. That'll allow us plenty of time to buy the ring and "

"YOU ALREADY MADE THE DECISION WITH HER BLOODY PARENTS WITHOUTEVEN CONSULTING ME FIRST?" Draco boomed.

His parents looked horrified. Lucius stood up from the table in anger, but Narcissastopped him quickly. "It's alright, Lucius. Let me handle him," she murmured.

Draco couldn't believe this. His parents were acting as if he was a five year old! Asif it wasn't bad enough that they had already picked a career for him, they were nowforcing him to get married!

"Draco, don't be childish now," his mother said sternly. "We've all talked this

through and have decided that this is the best thing for everyone."

"Yeah, everyone except me!" shouted Draco.

"No, especiallyyou!" Narcissa corrected him, shocked. "I can understand if you'rea bit surprised right now "

"Abit surprised?"

"- But you'll get over it. You two make a lovely couple, and you will propose to herat your father's party, in front of everyone. It will be a wonderful, romantic evening.Pansy will be so happy her parents are very excited..."

"I bet," Draco snapped. He rose from his seat and stormed out. "Draco, don't belike that, dear!" he heard his mother call behind him, but he ignored her.

He walked out the front door in haste, not wishing to be anywhere near histraitorous family.

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Flaring Tempers and Disarray

Eleven: Flaring Tempers and Disarray

Draco didn't roll out of bed until nine o'clock after a long, sleepless night. Hisfather had long gone to work, and the shop was supposed to have been opened anhour ago. But it didn't matter to Draco; for him, it felt as if his life was ending.

He arduously dragged himself out of bed and forced himself to get dressed. Hefound his mother downstairs at the kitchen table. "You're a bit late this morning,"she remarked.

Draco shrugged. He wasn't even in the mood for breakfast, but he knew that his

mother would force him to eat. "Honestly I think the extra sleep will do you good,"Narcissa continued. "I don't know what Lucius thinks he is, making you work somuch every day."

"What extra sleep?" Draco mumbled. Then, realizing how empty the house was, heasked "Pansy's not here?"

"No, she's probably still in Kensington at her sister's."

Draco felt a tiny bit of relief, but knew that her absence was only temporary. "Ihope that you've cooled down a bit since last night," Narcissa said in a sterner tone."Your temper will not be tolerated again."

Draco felt a surge of anger course through his veins.Ignore her, he muttered tohimself. He did not want to cause a scene early in the morning.Best to enjoy thelittle bit of peace and sanity I've still got left.

But peace and sanity were not to be found when Draco reached work. The entireshop seemed to be in disarray. There were dozens of owls flying in with largeparcels, and there were boxes and cartons everywhere Draco could see. Every inchof the place was packed with these parcels, and every inch of the floor was litteredwith feathers and owl droppings. Over in the corner were Luna and Twieck, onelooking extremely worried and exhausted and the other a soppy, dripping mess whodidn't even seem to know where she was.

"Where were you, sir?" cried Twieck. "Madam and I have been waiting for masterto show up, to fix this mess, sir. These owls keep pouring in, and there's no space for

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all these boxes, sir."

Draco realized with dread that this was the order he had foolishly filled that dayLucius had scolded him. His father had been right; Draco was too irresponsible andimmature to do anything right.

"Throw them in the warehouse," Draco snapped.

"But sir, the warehouse is already full!" the house elf cried impatiently. "We'vealready tried to fit as much as we can in there, but there was only enough space fora couple of cartons, sir!"

Draco was just about ready to erupt. He didn't need this stress on top ofeverything else already. He glanced over at Luna and his blood boiled again. Luna

was dripping wet from the heavy rain and her hair was a chaotic mess. Her regularmismatching garments were wrinkled and the bottom of her skirt was stained withmud. It was not the sloppiness of her appearance which angered Draco, but the wayshe still managed to look so beautiful. The way she just seemed to shine no matterhow tattered her hair and clothes were was so incredibly frustrating to Draco thathe had the aching desire to hurt her.

"Clean up the mess on the floor," he snarled at her, surprising even himself at theharshness of his tone.

Luna caught his eyes in a flash, and Draco suddenly realized that they were themost grievous eyes he had ever seen. There was something troubling her today.Draco was startled to see a tear escape from the swollen, puffy eyes. Luna wiped itaway hastily and nodded. "Sir, what shall we do with all these boxes?" whimperedthe house elf. "There's no room for them anywhere. Master will be angry if we leavethem around!"

"What the hell do I care what you do with these damn boxes?" he snarled. "Dowhatever the hell you want. Just leave me out of it."

Realizing that there was no way he could deal with this today, Draco stormed outof the shop. He needed to get far, far away from this mess as possible.

Luna didn't know how she hadn't collapsed already from all this stress, but shehad managed so far. Now that Draco had left, it was up to her to fix this enormousmess. She had managed to clear off the owl droppings and feathers and had sent

away the lingering owls. The owls had finally stopped pouring in, dropping off thelast shipment of parcels. Now that that was over, the racket was gone and the mess

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was at least a little less overwhelming. All they needed to do now was find a way tosqueeze all the robes into the already crammed shop.

Twieck had stopped panicking and had called in a few other house elves. Theywere now poring through the new merchandise and checking off the list to keeptrack of all the dress robes. Luna was rearranging the robes already in the shop and

squeezing in part of the new shipment with the rest. She didn't mind all this work; itwas better than sitting around awkwardly next to Draco. Besides, she really neededto keep her mind occupied on something today. She couldn't even feel angry atDraco for irresponsibly leaving his own shop, as she knew the day would be harderto endure with him around. Best of all, being alone in the shop with the house elvesmeant that she was actually respected and didn't have to listen to Pansy's insults allday long.

Luna was so immersed in the work that much of the merchandise was alreadysorted and shelved by noontime. There still remained plenty of cartons strewedaround, however, and she still had no idea what to do with all of them. Luna sat onthe sofa, exhausted. She had never needed a break as much as she needed now, butshe didn't feel right leaving the shop and leaving the house elves in charge.

Luna reached into her bag and pulled out her boxed lunch. She could eat whileshe worked today. Just as she bit into her sandwich, the bells on the door jingled.Part of Luna hoped that it was Draco, so that she wouldn't be left alone with all this

work, but another part of her was enjoying being away from his awkward glares. Itwasn't Draco who entered, however.

Pansy Parkinson entered the shop, along with whom Luna guessed was hermother. Both ladies had the same dark brown hair, though the older woman's waselegantly tied in a bun while Pansy's short locks were neatly fastened with ajewelled clip. Pansy wore a short red frock and heeled slippers, while her motherwore satin robes of blue. Both women had an air of aristocracy and a matching,arrogant scowl.

Pansy caught Luna's gaze. Her scowl widened, and she glared in disgust. "You!Where's Draco?" she demanded.

Luna swallowed a mouthful of her sandwich. "Uh, he's not in right now."

Mrs. Parkinson looked at Luna in contempt. Her mouth curled in disgust as shetook in Luna's shabby appearance. "Disgusting servant girl, how dare you eat on the

job? Have you no respect for the Malfoys, who have so generously allowed you towork in their shop?"

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Luna swallowed again in shame, putting down her lunch. "I'm sorry," she saidquickly. "Is there anything I can help you with?"

"I highly doubt that. It seems you're not even capable of tidying up the shopproperly," said Pansy's mother, eyeing the boxes thrown around the room. "Wherehas Draco gone?"

"I don't know," Luna answered, mortified.

"Hm." Mrs. Parkinson scowled again. "Well, perhaps it's better if he isn't here. Weneed a dress robe for Pansy. We want the finest one in the shop."

"But mum, will we be able to afford it?" Pansy asked, eyeing the price tag for acouple of robes. "They're quite pricey."

"Of course, we won't need to pay for it, dear," her mother told her, a sly smileescaping her lips. "No doubt the Malfoys will handle the bill. It's for their party afterall. And it's such a special occasion..."

"Mum, are you sure that Draco will propose to me that night? He doesn't seemlike he's going to."

These words hit Luna like a sharp blow, but she wasn't sure why. "Of course he

will, dear," her mother assured her. "I've spoken to Narcissa, and everything is setup."

Pansy was absolutely delighted. "Oh, I can't wait, mother! After this I want to buynew shoes, and perhaps a new necklace. I need a new handbag too, actually. Can weget all that?"

"Of course, dear, I'll make sure that Lucius gets the bill."

Luna didn't realize that she was awkwardly rooted to the spot. Mrs. Parkinsonnoticed this and shot Luna a murderous glare. "What are you still standing overthere for? I told you that my daughter needs a new set of dress robes! Honestly,where does Lucius find all these incompetent workers? I hope that he's not payingthis girl a single Knut. Narcissa will hear about this, that's for sure."

"I'm not a house elf!" Luna found herself shouting.

The two women looked at her in shock. "You disgusting girl, how dare you speakto your superiors like that?"

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"Money is no substitute for sense and intelligence," Luna responded, her faceflushing. "You people think that you own the world just because you're rich. Butwithout money you have nothing at all; no wit, no personality, and no creativity. It'salmost laughable that you think that you are my superiors, because really you arenothing at all. Anybody can get money, but the value of what I have is somethingthat you'll never even be able to comprehend."

When Luna had finished, both Pansy and her mother were boiling with rage. Theywere glaring at her as if she was some disgusting substance which they had found inthe gutter. Mrs. Parkinson darted over to Luna with her face flushing in anger, andraised her hand as if she was about to slap her.

"Leave her alone," said a cold, angry voice from behind them. Luna looked up tosee Draco, wet and shining from the rain. She hadn't noticed the door open in all

this commotion.

"Drakie-poo!" said Pansy in delight. She hurried over to embrace him, but heignored her.

Mrs. Parkinson dropped her hand in shock. "Draco! What is the meaning of this?Don't tell me that you're actually sticking up for this wretched servant! Didn't youhear what she said to us? Are you honestly going to allow her to get away with this?"

"Please do not come into my shop and mistreat my workers," Draco responded.Luna gazed at him in surprise. She wasn't the only one to do so.

Mrs. Parkinson looked too shocked to reply. After a moment's pause, sheflustered, "well, your father will certainly hear about this. Come on, Pansy. Let's goelsewhere."

"But mum!" Pansy protested, clearly not comprehending what had just passed."What about my robes?"

"I'm not sure if you'll need one anymore," her mother snapped, taking her handand pulling her out of the shop.

"But what will I wear to the party then?"

Luna almost laughed out loud. She turned to Draco, her eyes brimming withadmiration. "Thanks," she beamed.

Draco's icy eyes narrowed on her. "Don't thank me," he snarled. "I didn't do you

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any favour. What the fuck do you think you are? How dare you work in my shop andbehave this way?"

Luna's mouth dropped open. "But they insulted me, Draco, I was just "

"I don't care what they said! Why can't you realize that nobody wants you here?

My father only hired you to make people think that he's not prejudiced anymore.Nobody likes you, you stupid girl. In fact, we're actually quite embarrassed to havesuch a freak in our bloody shop!"

Luna felt hot tears cascading down her cheeks as Draco stormed out of the shoponce again.

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A Rainbow in the Mist

Thanks to everyone who's been reading and reviewing! This is the turning point ofthe story. I'll post the next chapter very soon.

Twelve: A Rainbow in the Mist

Draco didn't ever want to step into his own shop again. He knew that he wasresponsible for this huge mess, and that he was a jerk for saying what he had toLuna, but he didn't

DeathlikeSilence - Opulent Simplicity

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