Prize for Trivia Time, February 24th

Dedication: Trish (starspangledpumpkin)

Prompt: Viktory (Viktor/Hermione)

Word Count: (Per Google Docs) 500

Taking a collected breath, Hermione released it slowly as she recited the same words she found herself saying everyday now.

"I can do this."

She looked down at her hand fidgeting with the engagement ring she refused to take off. It slid halfway off her finger before it was pushed right back into place.

'Not yet.'

Looking back at her reflection, Hermione allowed the shaky breath to subside before grabbing her handbag. She promised Harry she'd attend the Quidditch World Cup with him and Ginny. She'd promised Ron—

One of the privileges of being heroes was gaining access to the ministers private box. Hermione wasn't big on the sport, but she could sit through another match for her friends' sake. They were still finding a way to move on, too.

Ron's death had a massive impact on everyone so soon after the war. Molly had been against him becoming an auror – with good reason. Voldemort's deserters were still just as dangerous without a leader, and an encounter had gone terribly wrong—

That was two years ago.

Hermione barely registered the match or who even won the championship; too lost in her own mind to care. Ron was really good at quidditch—

Harry gently shook her from her thoughts. "You alright?"

She forced herself to shake her head, knowing she'd fall apart if she spoke. Harry didn't press her, instead he squeezed her shoulder, offering comfort. "Take your time."

Hermione let the tears fall as soon as everyone left.

She didn't know how much time passed nor did she hear the gentle knock or creak of the door opening.

"Hermione?"

The very distinctive voice pulled her to the present and had her wipe her eyes before standing to face him.

"Viktor…" she whispered.

"Pardon my intrusion. I saw you alone while flying past," Viktor said, surveying her distressed state before slowly approaching. "Were you abandoned?"

The tears welled again despite her efforts, and before she knew it, her face was pressed against his chest. He gently embraced her, offering soothing motions with his hand against her back while she cried.

It took some time for Hermione to recuperate, explain, and apologize to Viktor so he knew what was wrong.

"No need to be apologetic," he said. "You've gone through much grief, keeping it in only hurts you more."

A calm silence passed.

"I'm sorry you lost the championship. R—he'd be so disappointed."

"I'll further disappoint." Viktor sighed. "I'm retiring."

"Why?"

"Losing two championships—three including Tri-Wizard—is humiliating."

Hermione hummed in thought, recalling a memory that hinted a smile. "I remember he was desperate to ask you to play a game of quidditch, but he let his pigheadedness get the best of him."

Viktor looked her way, smirking. "It's understanding, but I wish he had. We might've become friends."

She let out a quiet laugh, resting a hand on his.

He curled his fingers around her palm, giving it a gentle squeeze. "It's difficult, but memories help."

"Thank you. I needed this..."