Draco's Hufflepuff | Emerging

Twenty-Nine: Neville Longbottom

**

Friday, 29th November, 1996

History of Magic was especially loud today. Or perhaps it just seemed like it was just because I had barely spoken since last Friday. I hadn't said a word to Draco since our confrontation up in the Astronomy Tower. Unless you counted eye contact or overhearing his private conversation in the library as communication, of course.

My life had gone from being consumed by Draco Malfoy and having every aspect of my life revolve around him to nothing. It was as though I was a drug addict and I had quit cold turkey. Only, my substance of choice was around me at all times, tempting me back into one final taste.

I knew that if I were to give into those cravings, it would feel so good and satisfying, but once that rush had faded and I was hit back down to reality again, I'd hate myself and vow to never indulge again... only for the cycle to repeat itself just the next day.

Knowing that Draco does in fact like me, and he regrets his actions and cruel words, it makes it just that even more tempting. I really hated myself for missing him, or even allowing my brain to consider going back to him.

But oh, did my heart hurt, with a massive Draco shaped hole. I yearned to be back in his arms, which I always seemed to slot so perfectly in to. I used to class Draco as my safe space.

Forcing myself to look over in any direction other than to my right, I couldn't help but notice a certain excited buzz in the air. Lavender was talking to everyone around us, and I couldn't help but notice the way their eyes kept lighting up.

On top of it all, Professor McGonagall had been trying to gently encourage me to start sitting back in the Great Hall. After the fourth hint, I said that I would sit in there for lunch. I got the feeling I was starting to annoy her, or get in her way, and that's the last thing I wanted, especially after she's shown me such kindness and generosity.

Professor McGonagall said that once I was sat back on the Hufflepuff table, I would feel better. The first step was usually always the hardest. I had never dreaded a meal time so much in my life.

**

Defence Against the Dark Arts was one of my favourite classes, but I hated being here now. Not only had Hannah asked to be swapped seats, but I was also constantly reminded of what happened.

I was now sitting with Neville, so Hannah was now with Hermione in the desk in front of me, and Remus didn't want to disrupt the seating plan too much. At least Neville was sweet and kind and didn't seem to care all too much that I was with Draco.

I was desperate to talk to Hannah and make it all okay again, but it was as though I didn't exist anymore.

"Can anybody tell me the difference between Langlock and Mimblewimble?" Professor Lupin asked us all.

Hermione, of course, was the only one to raise her hand.

"Yes, Hermione?" Professor Lupin gestured to her,

"Langlock, is a jinx that causes the victims tongue to stick to the roof of their mouth. And Mimblewimble, is a curse that ties the victims tongue in a knot. Both of them are similar in that it renders the victim speechless, but different in the severity of the effect," Hermione stated matter-of-factly,

"Well done, Hermione, ten points to Gryffindor," Remus bowed, "Okay, so, which do you believe to be more effective? Which one would you gravitate towards more in a duel, for example?" he then asked, looking round the classroom, "Maddie?"

I looked up, feeling all of their eyes on me suddenly. I was very aware of the fact Draco was going to be listening to me speak as well.

"I'm not sure, sir," I mumbled, trying to sound as brave as I could,