Forty: Entangled

                                    

                                          
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Thursday, 13th June, 1996
Things between Draco and I had been really quite good since our encounter up in the Astronomy Tower. It was different now to how it had been when we were alone, easier almost, more real. We'd met up every single night to study, and I really do mean to study.
Our new nightly routine was very similar to before, however, we'd just swapped going up into the Astronomy Tower for the library. Draco was being even more sweet with me than usual, going over the subjects thoroughly and helping me understand them as best I could.
We were talking more as well. All the time too, not just when we were by ourselves. It wasn't filled with sarcasm or indifference either, it was genuine conversation, just like it was before. We'd even walked to a few classes together, not caring who saw.
One thing I found strange though, was that we hadn't kissed since we made up in the Astronomy Tower. Every time Draco walked me back to the Hufflepuff common room after the library, he'd kiss me on the cheek or the forehead softly, but not my lips. I couldn't help but feel like maybe he didn't want to kiss me, but he would always linger his stares, and draw out any physical contact we shared.
I was just glad most people had stopped talking about me, forgetting the whole George situation. There were still the odd whisper and laughter whenever I was with a boy, not matter what the context, some people must still be thinking the worst of me. I didn't care as much anymore, because Draco made it all feel manageable, he made me feel so much better about myself.
Sat in Potions for the first lesson of the day, Draco was sat as close to me as he could without being suspicious about it. Our legs were touching and there was only a couple of inches in between our elbows. 
All of the weird tension and the awkward atmosphere had completely disappeared, and things were slowly getting back to the way they were. I had to admit, I was going to miss sitting with the Slytherin boys and listening to their conversations, as I could only assume next year it'd be different.
"Today will the last chance to work through the Draught of Peace, as it will be the last chance before your O.W.L.s, do try to use this time wisely, as you won't get any more attempts to perfect the concoction. You have forty-five minutes, go and be quiet about it," Professor Snape drawled from the front of the classroom, 
"I'll be back in a moment, Parsons, I'll just collect the ingredients we need, okay?" Draco nodded,
"Thank you," I smiled at him softly.
Watching as he walked over to the potions ingredients cupboard, I couldn't help but feel a swarm of butterflies fly through me. He really did seem to be making an effort with me, and I honestly couldn't have asked for anything more.
I was left alone with Blaise Zabini and Vincent Crabbe, and although I'd much rather be with Draco, I chuckled to myself as I listened to Blaise and Crabbe's conversation. They were talking about the best alcohol to drink, and I weirdly felt a little proud when Blaise said the drink I came up with at the party was a lot nicer than he expected it to be, considering it was a "girly" drink.
Draco soon returned with the Powdered Moonstone, Syrup of Hellebore, Powdered Unicorn Horn, Powdered Porcupine Quills, and Valerian Root. He looked to me as he started measuring the right quantities.
"Did you want to add the Powdered Moonstone slowly whilst I finish these off, Parsons?" Draco asked,
"Sure, I can do that for you, Draco," I said, looking up at him,
"Okay, add it in carefully, a little at a time, and stir it counter clockwise until it turns green, it shouldn't take long. Then I'll guide you what to do next, does that sound okay?" Draco asked firmly, yet kindly,