Draco was following Candi like a dog. He just couldn't keep away from her. Unfortunately, he wasn't too subtle. When she was in the library, he was flipping through a book five feet away from her. When she went to get something to eat, he was munching on an apple right next to her. Finally, she confronted him.

They were walking the hallway that led to the outside stairs, and suddenly, Candi whirled around. Draco was casually walking behind her. He bumped into her.

"Ouch!"

"Look, kid, why are you here?" Candi placed her hands on her hips. Draco thought she looked stunning.

"Um, just going up and out." Draco said, trying to act casual.

"Oh, really? Where are you going?"

"Um......out?" Draco said sheepishly. The game was up. She smiled.

"What's your name again? I feel like we've met."

"We have! You saw me with Sam, that day in the Owlry. Remember?" Draco was practically begging for her to remember.

"Yea, what was your name again? Dweeby?"

"Draco! And you're Candi Halley!"

"Hm...do you want to go into town with me?" Draco gasped. He nodded, dumbfounded. "Good. Let's get a move on."

*****

Draco held Candi's arm as they walked into town. They were given appreciative glances. But then, Draco saw Hermione and Ashley. He waved.

"Hey guys!" He tried to get their attention. Ashley waved, and Hermione tossed Candi a look of deepest loathing. Draco's hand went limp He got a curious feeling...almost as if he had been caught cheating. He shook his head.

"What's wrong?" Candi asked, concerned. Draco tried to smile.

"Nothing hon, let's get moving."

However, he found out later, nothing was to be the same again.

There! The rest of the chapter!

Katie