the only hope for me is you.

"Lyssa," Narcissa said softly. "Why?"

Lyssa just shook her head, not really able to talk at the moment.

Narcissa hugged her tighter. "I love you," She said simply, the tone of her voice echoing how much she meant that, and how much the possibility of losing her daughter scared her.

"I love you too, mom," Lyssa muttered.

"Lyssa dear, you need to talk to me about anything that is bothering you. I am always here. And it shouldn't get to you holding a bottle in your hands and feeling that that is the only option. Because there is always others. We can't read minds, you have to talk to us."

"I tried to say something. I got shouted at," Lyssa said, thinking of earlier that day with Cassie and the water.

"By who?" Narcissa asked her eyes narrowing dangerously.

"Doesn't matter."

"Lyssa," Narcissa said.

"Mum," Lyssa said back. "It doesn't matter."

Narcissa's eyes narrowed further but she let it drop. "Than talk to some-one else, tell some-body else. You'll always have me to turn to."

"And me," Draco said.

"I know. The issue is settled now."

Narcissa hugged her again. "I'm always here," She said when they withdrew from the hug.

"I know. I know."

Narcissa kissed her on the forehead. "Stay safe."

"I'll try."

When Narcissa drew back Draco hugged his sister.

After that hug ended, Lyssa looked at Cassie.

"Ready to leave when you are," Cassie said to her.

"Now would be nice. As much as I love you two," Lyssa had turned to look at her mom and brother, "this house just brings back all sorts of bad things."

Cassie shuddered. "Couldn't agree more," She said. "Let's go then. Mrs. Malfoy," She said with a nod, and a slight smile. She glanced at Draco. "Draco." She nearly started laughing, though she had no idea why.

"Bye, mum, Draco. Love you both," Lyssa said, rolling her eyes at Cassie good-naturedly.

Cassie grinned at her. "I think that is the most civilized I have ever said 'Draco'," She commented once they had left and shut the door behind them.

"If you say so..." Lyssa muttered. "Now, let's get out before we run into my dad."

"Great idea that one," Cassie said warily.