AN: Welcome! Please let me say first and foremost that none of these characters belong to me. Unfortunately. That being said do keep in mind that I don't plan on putting this disclaimer on every chapter. Personally I feel that would further degrade my self esteem by reminding me every chapter that I, in fact, was not clever enough to come up with Harry Potter. Now. This is a dark fiction. Suicide attempts, suicide reference, self harm… the works. Do enjoy, and reviews (and constructive criticism) are more than welcome. J
Hermione
Looking over the balcony I saw Malfoy's eyes reflected in the waves below. The push and pull of the icy cold water mirrored almost perfectly to the shift in thought that could be seen in the ever proud Draco Malfoy. Thoughts that sang to me to let go, to tell him everything, to finally be free. Eyes that followed my every move and taunted my every thought before they ever left my lips. Determined to prove what I already knew. He was better than me, and everyone knew it.
Let it go.
Waves that whispered an unbidden memory to my ears. Eyes that begged to know that last secret.
Tell us.
Clutching the stone railing for support I whispered "I remember the most beautiful sunset, but I was so unbelievably cold. It looked as if the sun dipped into the water, and rose in its depths. Colors splashed on every cloud in the most beautiful hues and gliding among its glamour was the most beautiful eagle I have ever seen. Proud. And free. I understood why the Americans chose that bird as their mascot. I turned to show her, but all I remember now is that smile. Brilliant and perfect. She always had perfect teeth." I felt a small helpless smile trying not to remember Ron's expression as I explained just what a dentist was. "Anyway, the doctors told me later that our car slid out on some ice and left us suspended on a bridge. She saw the truck coming but knew there was no way to save us. She didn't want my last moments to be filled with pain, so she showed me something better. Now when I think of her all I see is her smile, that sunset, and oh, so much pain. There have been many times where I wished I could fly away like that eagle.
Why not? The depths asked. Have you ever tried to fly? Or do you just assume you can't because your books tell you that you can't? Why not Hermione? Are you that afraid to fail? Who would miss poor Hermione Jean Granger anyway? Undeniably the brightest witch of your age and yet, still finds herself third best. Tell me about the Golden Trio Hermione. Tell me, when they write stories about the fabulous Harry James Potter and his adventures, what will history remember? Harry's courage. Ron's determination. Your brilliance. How much did you sacrifice just to keep them alive? How many times did you save them? Yet, in all the stories, how will you be remembered? By your uncontrollable hair, and your brilliance. Your rivalry with a bully…and your ability to pay attention in class. Why not, Hermione? What would be so bad if you did fail?
Be free.
"Free." I whispered back "why not?"
Be free.
Carefully climbing onto the ledge I looked out into that brilliant sunset and found myself thinking of mermaids. Not the ones Harry fought in fourth year, but the ones muggles used to read to their children about. Ariel, I think her name was. Boy, do I have answers for you. Closing my eyes I turned to face the castle one last time. Crossing my arms over my chest I whispered "No note. No goodbyes."
Be free.
The fall was so peaceful, so quiet. Finally free of all the weight that held me to the ground I smiled as the wind whipped through my not-so-bushy hair. I thought I heard a cry of alarm as the waves enveloped me in a welcoming embrace, but didn't care. It was too late anyway. The last thing I heard as I slipped deeper into darkness was the depths whispering:
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