Don't leave.

-

Taylor

The burns on her body healed quickly thanks to a burn healing paste Madam Pomfrey let her borrow. Her emotions were mixed and all over the place, she wasn't sure what she wanted. Draco scared her, for the first time, she was scared of him. Though, it quickly faded as the days passed where she didn't see him.

She wasn't angry anymore, she didn't know if she ever was. Her mind held a million questions, wondering if Blaise deserved what Draco did, wondering if it was justified. Yes, Blaise had hurt Taylor. But did that mean it was okay for him to get hurt? It's fighting fire with fire, something Taylor always stayed away from. She thought it was best to ignore Zabini and limit her time around him. Draco thought it was best to cause him pain.

That's where they differ, Taylor thought, Draco was angry and violent, Talor was quiet and reserved. Draco wasn't speaking to her now, he didn't even look at her. She tried not to stare but caught herself looking at him in class or in the halls. She missed him but didn't know if she should talk to him. She didn't know a lot of things. She was so confused.

Draco had detention for three months, which would almost be the end of the school year. Spring break came and went, the weather changing into clear skies and flowers blooming across Hogwarts. She went home for their break and spent every day with her father. It became increasingly noticeable that something was wrong.

"Is everything okay at school?" Her dad asked one morning over breakfast.

She nodded, not meeting his eyes. "You seem upset. Talk to me, what's going on?"

Taylor wanted him to comfort her but didn't want to tell him any part of what's happened. "There was a fight between two students. I got hurt a little but it's okay."

Her dad tried his best to understand magic. He often forgot that the school Taylor attended was Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. They didn't talk about it much, so whenever she was home she felt normal again. She felt like she was six again. Only now, Ana and mum weren't around.

"Is there a boy?" He asked curiously. Taylor laughed a little, "There was."

Her dad gasped dramatically, "Tell me everything!"

Taylor went on and on about how they met, spending day after day with him, how he made her feel happy. She left out the parts about Blaise. "Seems like a trouble maker to me. I know I can't control what you do, especially while at school, but maybe you should stay away from him. Did you say he almost killed another boy?"

"It's not like that, dad. He's really sweet, I like him a lot. Plus, people almost die like every year at Hogwarts. Last year a basilisk petrified 5 students, a ghost, and a cat!"

He shook his head and got up from the table to clear their plates. "I'm just saying, don't put yourself in dangerous situations by being around him. You have that friend of yours, Heidi, yeah? She seems like a good influence. Hang out with her more."

Taylor stayed quiet, thinking about what he was saying. He wasn't entirely wrong, maybe being with Draco was dangerous, even if it was just a little. Her dad continued speaking while washing the dishes, "You're young, Taylor. There will be lines of guys waiting to kiss you."

"Ew dad, stop," she cringed. He laughed, "Well, it's true! You have your mother's good looks and your father's charisma. When I was in high school, I dated Katherin Plethy, Marina Goldstar, and Daisy Wallop before I met your mother."

She rolled her eyes sarcastically, "I get it, you got around in school. I'm not like that, dad. Socializing makes me anxious." She got up from the table and grabbed her dad's keys and wallet, handing them to him.

"That's not the point. I'm trying to tell you that you don't need to worry too much about this boy because there will be others. I thought Katherin was the one, but it didn't work out. I thought Marina was the one, but she cheated on me. I was so sure I would marry Daisy but life happens, and we broke up. Your mother challenged me, she made me see the world in a different light. You find someone like that and you don't let go."

She smiled at him, "Okay, Dad, I get it. As you said, I'm young. I won't think about it that much."

He pulled her in for a hug, kissed the top of her head, and made his way to the door, "I'll see you for dinner, I love you."

"I love you too."

-

Hours passed while her dad was at work. She took a walk around the park, weeding the flower beds and feeding the squirrels. She noticed a homeless man sleeping on one of the benches and went home to get some money and food. They didn't have a lot in their kitchen, their fridge only consisted of milk, eggs, yogurt, cheese, and packaged turkey. She found some bread in the cabinet and made a very bland turkey sandwich.

There was a hot dog stand nearby, and she asked for mustard and mayo packets. The vendor gave them to her for free, and she walked over to the homeless man, who was now awake. She gave him the sandwich and five pounds, apologizing for not being able to give him more.

He was beyond thankful, and Taylor sat with him talking about his life. He seemed overly joyful that someone was actually speaking to him. She listened as he rambled about losing his job ten years prior, joining the military, and being discharged a few months ago. He came home to his wife with another man, got evicted from his home, and now slept in the park.

Taylor told him that he was brave. She told him that life would get better and that the universe would someday reward him for his situation. He said he always tries to stay positive and look on the bright side. He said he's gotten an awesome tan from being outside so much, which made Taylor laugh.

"I've got to go home now, but I'll come back tomorrow," she said rising from her spot on the bench. "I'll be here," the man said with a friendly smile.

"What's your name?" Taylor asked, realizing she hasn't yet. "Daryll," he responded gratefully as if people never ask for his name. "It was nice to meet you, Daryll. I'm Taylor."

"See you tomorrow, Taylor."

Once she returned home, Taylor felt guilty. She felt guilty for being able to go home, when Daryll, and so many others, didn't have one. It was only 3 pm, her dad wouldn't be back for four more hours. She finished up the little bit of homework that was assigned before the break and headed out again.

She offered to walk their neighbor's dogs and got paid a few pounds. Taylor washed Mr. Holland's car and was paid again. She did odd jobs around the town until she had enough money to buy a tent, two pillows, and a blanket. Tomorrow was Easter, and though Taylor wasn't religious and didn't celebrate it, she thought it'd be a nice present for Daryll.

Seven o'clock passed, and Taylor's father was nowhere to be seen. He often had to stay late at work, so she wasn't worried. She cooked herself a fried egg and ate dinner alone in the dark. Their electricity cut out a lot and the lights weren't working.

It usually turned back on after half an hour or so, but the lights still didn't work. She went into the bathroom to shower, but the water wasn't working, either. Taylor checked every faucet and light switch but to no avail. She felt a sinking feeling in her chest.

Her dad returned home at 9 pm, sweaty and dirty from his job. He was a construction worker, it was the only place that would hire him. Taylor felt anxious about telling him about the water and power, not wanting him to be even more stressed.

"Sorry I'm late, did you eat?" He asked as he flipped the switch, a confused look on his face when nothing happened. "Did the power cut out again?" He went into the kitchen and tried to turn on the water, but again, nothing happened.

He slammed his hands on the counter, "Damn it! I thought I had more time- They can't fucking do this!" Taylor already felt like crying, she hated seeing her dad so upset. He turned to Taylor, a distressed look on his face.

"It's okay, Taylor. We're fine, it's just that money is a little tight right now. I missed last month's rent but Jordyn said I could get it in by the 20th. I don't know why they shut off our power, I'll go talk to him right now."

And with that, he left. Taylor sat on the floor in the middle of the room and stared at the door until it was too dark to be visible from six feet away. She knocked on her neighbor's door, Mrs. Pattley, and asked for candles. She gave Taylor six tealight candles and a matchbox. Taylor thanked her and offered to pay her, but Mrs. Pattley refused. "If there's anything I can do to help, just let me know," she said with a genuine smile.

Taylor lit the candles and put four in the living room and kitchen and two in the bedroom. She waited for her father to return, but it was getting late and he was still gone. She ended up sleeping on the couch, purposefully so that her dad would have to take the bed.

She heard him get home, placing his keys on the counter, and walking to the bedroom.

-

In the morning, Taylor slept through the sounds of her father getting ready and leaving for work. The light outside brightened the apartment and Taylor got dressed. She was excited to give Daryll his present.

"Good morning, Daryll!" Taylor exclaimed as she noticed him on the same bench as before, hurrying over. "You're back!" He said cheerfully.

"And I brought you something," Taylor held up the rolled tent and pillows in her arms.

Daryll stood and examined the objects she was holding. He fell to his knees and cried, which made Taylor cry. This was different than all the other times she cried before, these were happy tears. She helped him set up the tent and arranged the blanket and pillows neatly inside.

After talking with Daryll for another hour or two, he thanked her continuously for her kindness. He was so excited to sleep in the tent, he took a nap immediately after Taylor left. She went around to every vendor and food stand, asking if they would hire Daryll.

She told each of them his story, hoping they would take pity on him. But time and time again, they rejected her. Feeling defeated from not being able to get him a job, she went home to her powerless apartment. She'd be going back to Hogwarts tomorrow.

Mrs. Plattley let Taylor use her shower, brush her teeth in her bathroom, and cook with her stove. Taylor made spaghetti for herself and Mrs. Plattley. She lived alone, aside from two cats named Nutmeg and Pumpkin. They were mischievous little buggers, scratching the sofa and sitting on the fridge. Taylor thought it was funny how Mrs. Plattley talked to them like they were toddlers.

"Pumpkin you get down from there right now, mister! Don't make me tell you again!"

After she yelled at her cats she always held them and kissed them, apologizing for raising her voice. She was such a kind and generous person, even to her cats. She let Taylor take the rest of the spaghetti home and told her to let her father know he could use her shower as well.

Before she left, Taylor asked if she knew of any jobs for Daryll, explaining his situation. "You're so sweet, Terra, I'll look into it."

She always had trouble remembering Taylor's name, which she thought was cute.

Her father got home late again but was happy to know Mrs. Plattley took care of her. He took the offer to use her shower after he ate the spaghetti, which was cold by now. It was getting dark so she lit the candles and sat on the couch, reading the only book her dad owned: Shakespeare's Hamlet.

Her father admired Shakespeare's work, he had been an English major in university. His dream was to be a writer, and he was doing pretty well until mum got sick. Not that it's her fault, in no way was it her fault. It's just that shit happens, and he wasn't able to pursue his dreams anymore.

Taylor packed up her things and put on the outfit she would wear on the train back to school in the morning. Her dad hugged her goodnight and passed out on the couch. Taylor sang to herself while cleaning up the bedroom, making sure everything was perfect.

Her dad already left for work when she woke up, a note folded on the kitchen counter.

My child,

I'm sorry I couldn't say goodbye to you this morning. This job is very demanding. I'm sorry we lost power in the middle of your visit. I'm trying to make this a better home, but it's difficult. Mrs. Plattley told me about Daryll. I got him a job at my construction company. I'm so incredibly proud of you. You are everything a father could ask for in a daughter. I will see you in two months, write to me.

Love, the best man in your life

Taylor smiled and folded the note back up and put it in her pocket. She grabbed her trunk and headed to King's Cross. She made a quick stop at Daryll's tent to congratulate him on the job.

"What was it you said about the universe rewarding me? I think you are the universe, Taylor. Thank you, thank you, thank you."

He shook her hand and said, "I've got to head to work now! I wish you the best."

Taylor thought about his happy expression the entire way to the station. The train didn't leave until 11, but she had to start walking at 7 to get there on time. Recognizing the friendly faces of her peers instantly made her excited to get back to Hogwarts. She found Heidi and Maxine in a compartment and sat with them, discussing their spring breaks.

In the middle of their conversation, Draco Malfoy walked past their compartment, not sparing even a glance towards Taylor. "Hey! You don't get to feel guilty about him. It was his decision to stop talking to you. Personally, I think it's for the best," Heidi commented.

"I know. I just miss him," Taylor sighed. A few minutes passed and Cedric was standing at the door, asking to sit with them. They were all happy to let him sit. He took his seat next to Taylor, who was across from Heidi. "These Muggles are crazy," Max started, "An old man asked for a picture of my feet!"

"Ew!" Heidi and Taylor said in unison. Just then, Blaise walked by and stopped in front of the door. "No boyfriend around to paralyze me today?" His voice was as arrogant as ever, and Taylor has had enough of it. The last week at home almost made her forget about him, and he was not about to ruin the train ride with her friends.

"Can you leave me the fuck alone? What, it wasn't enough for you to rape me, you have to bother me every day too?" Taylor snapped angrily. A look of surprise flashed across his face, shock on the faces of her friends.

Blaise became angry, "You were asking for it," he growled, and walked away. "Oh that bitch, I'm gonna kill him," Heidi started to climb over Max, who held her back. Cedric looked into Taylor's eyes, "He- He raped you?"

Taylor nodded and looked down at the table. "So that's why Malfoy nearly killed him..."

Heidi glared at Cedric, "What? News travels fast around here. To be fair, I would've done the same thing. Who does he think he is? I'm surprised he hasn't been expelled."

Taylor said lowly, "The professors don't know what happened."

"Well, you should tell them, don't you think? Zabini shouldn't get to walk around tormenting you," Cedric advised. "No. I don't want to," Taylor replied flatly.

"But-" Cedric started, but got cut off by Heidi, "Leave it, Diggory. It's her story to tell and it's her choice not to tell it."

He held his hands up in surrender. A few moments of awkward silence passed. Maxine picked up the conversation about Quidditch, talking about their strategies. "Speaking of Quidditch, when are you trying out for the team?" Max asked Taylor.

"I'll probably try out next year," Taylor responded. Max's face lit up, "That's great! You can go for Seeker, you'd be perfect for it!"

Cedric spoke up, "Uhm, excuse me, but I'm the Seeker."

"Oh shove off Diggory, you're not that good," Max retorted. Heidi snorted.

Taylor shrugged, "I've never even played Quidditch. I'm probably ass at it."

For the rest of the train ride, they talked about Quidditch, urging Taylor to try out in the fall. Cedric was hyping her up, now encouraging her to go for the Seeker position. Even if that meant he couldn't play.

When they got off of the train, Taylor literally ran into Luna Lovegood, both of them falling to the ground. She laughed, "Godric, Luna, I'm sorry. Here," she reached out her hand to help her up.

"It's quite alright," she responded in her sweet voice, taking Taylor's hand.

Her hair was very blonde and long, falling down to her waist. Her eyes were a silvery-blue-grey color, absolutely mesmerizing to look into. Luna was an eccentric person, most people called her "Loony" but Taylor thought she was really cool.

They walked together into the castle and Taylor listened to Luna talk about Nargles and Wrackspurts. She tried to seem like she understood what Luna was talking about.

She caught Taylor off guard, saying, "You're truly beautiful, Taylor. Your aura is gorgeous as well." Taylor blushed at her comment and replied, "Thank you. I think you're beautiful too."

Luna was funny, she wasn't trying to be, but Taylor found her hilarious. They parted ways in the Great Hall, she went to sit with the Ravenclaws and Taylor sat with the Hufflepuffs.

Heidi nudged her with her elbow, "So... You and Luna?"

She remarked playfully, "Oh yeah, I think I'm in love with her."

"You'd make a cute couple. I'll plan the wedding. I'm thinking blue bridesmaid dresses."

Taylor scoffed, "That's only because you think you look great in blue."

Heidi held a hand to her chest, "Ouch! Blue's my color, is it not?" She asked Maxine and Cedric.

They exchanged looks and laughed, not answering Heidi. Dumbledore made a quick announcement and finished with "Enjoy the feast!"

Taylor caught up with Luna afterward, asking if she wanted to hang out. Luna agreed saying she was about to go to the library and Taylor could join her. Luna was reading Care of Magical Creatures: Vol. 1. Taylor read Quidditch Through the Ages to get caught up on all things Quidditch. Luna occasionally looked over her book at Taylor but glanced back down before she could notice. 

Taylor was reading her book in a strange manner, flipping and reflipping the pages, rereading the same page three times, and switched between holding it with her left and right hand. Luna stated out of the blue, "Your aura is violet, it's jumping around like a Flobberworm. Do you have OCD?"

She stared intently at Taylor, awaiting her response. Taylor never thought about the possibility of her having OCD. She thought the things she did were normal. "Erm, no, I don't think so," she told Luna. "Here, take some red jasper and lepidolite. It'll help."

She pulled out two crystals from her pocket, seemingly out of nowhere. One was deep purple and the other was red. She dropped them into Taylor's hand, who smiled and nodded. "Thank you, Luna. Where should I keep them?" Taylor had little knowledge of crystals. Ana was super into them and would get her crystals for her birthday or on Christmas. Taylor left them on her grave for her.

"Always have them with you. They've already been cleansed and charged, so no need to worry about that," she informed.

Taylor slid the crystals into her pocket and continued reading. It became difficult, she was getting distracted by Luna. There was something about her that Taylor felt drawn to. Maybe it was her perfect hair, or her clear eyes, her lips, or her facial features. 

Wait, whoa.

Luna was her friend. She's beautiful, for sure, but Taylor couldn't stop thinking about how stunning she really was. "I- I have to get going now. Thank you for the crystals."

Luna looked up at her, smiling. Her smile was dazzling, almost hypnotizing. "No problem. It was a pleasure reading with you."

Taylor found her way back to her common room, in desperate need of talking to Heidi. She knocked on the door of her room, Heidi opened it already dressed for bed. "Something happened," Taylor said eagerly, walking into the room and sitting on Heidi's bed.

"Uh oh. Do I need to get out the tissues?"

"No," Taylor thought for a moment, "Well, maybe."

Heidi sat next to her and Taylor, waiting for her to start talking.

"So I was sitting with Luna in the library, right. And I'm watching her read and I'm thinking 'wow, she's really pretty.' And then she gave me crystals and smiled at me and I couldn't stop thinking about kissing her," Taylor rambled. She was speaking awfully fast out of nervousness.

"Tay. Breathe." Heidi placed her hands on Taylor's face, who put hers on Heidi's shoulders, shaking her. "I don't know what to do!" She cried.

"Hey, I love you and I will love you no matter what. If you're gay you can tell me." Heidi released her face and held her hands instead. "I'm not gay! Not that there's a problem with that, it's just how can I be gay if I was interested in Draco?" 

Heidi laughed a little, "Taylor, Taylor, Taylor. I, myself, am a chaotic bisexual. It's not just gay or straight."

"But I'm still interested in Draco, too. I want to be with him but I also wouldn't mind being with Luna." Taylor was so so confused. It was like someone had attached strings to her emotions and was yanking on them. 

"My poor baby," Heidi pouted, "Just wait for a little. Everything will make sense eventually."

Taylor leaned her head onto Heidi's shoulder and sighed. "I'm tired," she whispered. Heidi rubbed her back for a few minutes before laying down with her. Heidi fell asleep quickly but Taylor's mind was still running. It wouldn't be fair to pursue anything with Luna if she still had feelings for Draco. She wasn't even sure if she had feelings for Luna.

She ended up falling asleep in the middle of a thought, Heidi's arms wrapped around her torso. Like so many other nights, she had a nightmare. The burning house. Her sister screaming. The bloody bathroom. Blaise.

Even Luna's crystals can't stop her bad dreams. 

At some point, she must have been crying, because she woke to Heidi wiping her face and shushing her. "Another bad dream?" She spoke softly, her voice riddled with sleepiness. "Yeah," Taylor groaned. "Are you okay?"

She repeated herself, "Yeah." Heidi brushed the hair from her face. "Want me to sing a lullaby?"

Once more, Taylor answered, "Yeah."

Heidi held Taylor in her arms and she began singing. Taylor was fast asleep yet again and this time, there were no nightmares. Only the park near her house on a rainy day. She and Draco were running around the trees playing tag. They were laughing and completely drenched from head to toe. 

And she felt happy.

-

This chapter was kinda slow and for that, I apologize. I think it's important to show things that aren't just Taylor and Draco's relationship. This is also the longest chapter I've written, at over 4000 words. Grammarly should sponsor me or something because it's saving my life.