"The heart has its reasons which reason knows not of."
-Blaise Pascal
"…..And the picture is adorable Hermione! I almost died when I saw it!"
"Oh thank you Ms. Philer!"
"Well have a nice day at work dear. Congratulations again!"
Hermione gave an audible sigh once Ms. Philer had departed through the elevator doors. To be exact, this had been the twelfth conversation today about her wedding announcement. Of course she had said her gracious thank yous with a cheery disposition and a wide smile, but inside she was dying to make it to her office as soon as possible.
As the elevator stopped at her floor, she quickly walked out the doors and began making her way to her office. On the way, she received her usual smiles and warm "good mornings." As her heels clicked down the hallway of the Magical Creatures Department, she began to wish that Ron would be waiting in her office so she could discuss his addition to the Daily Prophet.
"Ms. Granger! I've been looking for you everywhere!"
Hermione turned around to meet the cheery face of her secretary, Adelia Whittifer. She gave a sigh of relief, estatic that it wasn't another wedding congratulations. Adelia always had Hermione's schedule for the day, and she could finally get to work and get her mind off the stressful wedding planning.
"Good morning Adelia! Let's go over our schedule for today in my office, "replied Hermione with a smile. As the pair began to head towards her office, Adelia began giving an overview of Hermione's day.
"We have quite a busy day today Ms. Granger. New reports have come in, there are meetings to attend, and there are cases in which we must preside over. "
"Well we do have a busy day! What's the occasion?" chuckled Hermione.
"I filled it up as much as I could Ms. Granger, you know with the article in the Prophet and all."
A giant grin formed in Hermione's face. Adelia had to be the most faithful and intelligent secretary in the entire ministry. She knew Hermione well enough that once glance at the article would send her into her job and forget about the attention she would receive.
"Why thank you Adelia, you read my mind," Hermione answered with a smile.
She watched her secretary's bright blue eyes beam back at Her. Adelia had been Hermione's trusted secretary for almost three years now, and Hermione didn't possibly think she could manage without her. Adelia had a gorgeous, petite frame and long white blond hair which she piled into a tight bun. Her piercing blue eyes sought only perfection, giving Hermione a reason to admire her. She was a hard worker who made Hermione's stressful job a lot easier.
Once the pair reached the end of the hall, Hermione opened up two large double doors to reveal her spacious office. The room was large with high ceilings and a large fireplace covered one entire wall. A large mahogany desk stood at the other side of the room, with a small sitting area to its left. The fire had been lighted, and the crackling could be heard in the silence. Being a Head of a department had its perks.
Hermione made her way over to her desk followed by Adelia. She took off her coat and bag laying them down on a nearby sofa. Ready to fall into her work, Hermione gracefully sat down in her leather desk chair, with Adeia sitting across from her.
"Alright. What's the full schedule for today?" Hermione confidently questioned.
"Ok, first we have to inform the Muggle Studies Department to wipe the memory of the muggle who caught a glimpse of a house elf, which I will do right away. Then you have a meeting with the rest of the department at ten, and then lunch. That's the first part of the day. Oh, and the Minister owled me this morning, and he needs to have a meeting with you. He requested around one. I told him you would be able to attend, unless I told him otherwise."
Hermione sat back in her chair, surprised. The Minister rarely conducted one on one meetings, and if he did, it was for a serious issue.
"Did he mention the subject of this meeting?"
"No he didn't. He stated it was for your ears only."
Hermione didn't have the slightest idea what this could be about. Her department of Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures was doing quite well, thanks to her leadership. There weren't major incidents of muggle sightings and they had recently created a sanctuary in Southern Lithuania for injured unicorns. No, this meeting had to be about something entire different.
"Send him a reply that I will be able to make it to his meeting. We'll find out whatever this is about later."
"Excellent Ms. Granger. Oh I almost forgot! You received a bunch of new files in your mailbox this morning. These will definitely keep you busy for a while," replied Adelia with a smile.
As Hermione watched her secretary scribble notes onto her paper, she stared at the large stack of files on her desk. Well, at least this will keep me occupied…
Just as Hermione was about to comment on her work load, the large double doors burst open to reveal Ron, holding a large bundle of flowers.
"Hermione Granger! My beloved fiancé!" he shouted.
A small grin formed on Hermione's reddening face as she stood up and faced him. She heard Adeila give a faint cough as she collected her papers and stood up.
"Hello Mr. Weasley! You two should spend some time alone. I'll just be down the hall," winked Adelia as she made her way to the door.
"Why thank you Adelia," thanked Ron as he made his way over to Hermione. Laying the flowers on her desk, he picked her up, wrapping his arms around her as he kissed her. Hermione didn't resist, and after what felt like a minute she began to push away.
"Please Ron! We're at work!" she said.
"Oh come on Hermione, no one's going to burst in and send us to Askaban." Ron put her back on her feet and made his way over to the sofa. Hermione followed, sitting next to him.
"So? What did you think?" asked Ron.
"About what?"
"The article in the Prophet of course! About our engagement!" he asked excitedly.
Hermione glanced sideways, avoiding his eyes. Oh he knew I would hate it!
"That article. Well, I guess it was one way to get the news of our engagement out," she muttered.
Ron didn't seem to be to hurt at all by her lack of enthusiasm. Instead, he gave out a soft laugh.
"I knew you were going to hate it! Ginny told me not to do it without asking you, but I thought you needed a little surprise to lighten you up," he said.
Hermione let out a sigh. Placing a kiss on his lips, she stood up from her seat, making her way back to her desk.
"You know I really wouldn't have minded it if the picture didn't take up the entire commitments section," Hermione replied as she leaned against the front of her desk.
"But where would all the fun be in that?" answered Ron as he walked over to her, "I better be getting off to the Auror Department. Can't have Harry mad at me for being late can we?"
"Alright, go on Ron. I'll see you later. And tell Harry I said hello!" Ron turned to leave, but twisted in his spot and gave Hermione another passionate kiss. As he lifted his face from hers, their eyes met.
"I love you Hermione," he spoke tenderly.
"I know."
And with that, Ron made his way out the large doors, leaving Hermione standing in her place, wondering which pile of paperwork she should start first.
After spending hours of sorting through papers, Hermione was beginning to get tired of the repetition. Glancing at her clock, she realized that she had only ten minutes until her meeting with the Minister, Terence Fletcher. She stood up, and reached for her bag. Hermione grabbed her quill and some blank parchment just in case she needed to take notes. Once she had gathered her things, she made her way through the Magical Creatures Department, and into an elevator. For once she rode alone, contemplating the purpose of the meeting she was about to partake in. It certainly can't be a disciplinary meeting, I haven't broken any law. Or maybe he just wants to chat? Yes, we'll go with that.
When the elevator made its way down to the private offices of the Minister and his staff, it halted to a stop. After stepping out, she was greeted by none other than Lenard Grindow, the Minister's chief advisor.
"Why hello Ms. Granger! I am to escort you to the minister's office," he said cheerfully. Hermione nodded and the two began their way down the hall.
"Thank you Mr. Grindow. How are you doing?"
"Very well, very well, Terence's approval ratings are high, and all seems to be well in the wizarding world. Can't ask for better circumstances," he replied.
"That's wonderful news."
Just as she finished her sentence, they halted at the entrance to the Minister's office.
"Please stand back Ms. Granger."
Hermione watched as he traced his pointer finger down a long ridge in the large door. She heard clicks, and clanks, and assumed it was the door unlocking itself. He then whispered an inaudible password into the door, and it began to open.
"The office of the Ministry of Magic," he replied, ushering Hermione in, "It was nice talking to you."
He bid her farewell and made his way back down the hallway. Butterflies fluttered in Hermione's stomach as she pushed open the door. She was greeted by an enormous office, almost double the size of hers. Portraits of past ministers hung over the walls, and large tapestries covered the blank spots on the wall. Standing behind a very large desk was the Minister himself, Terence Fletcher. Terence was an older man, maybe in his fifties, and was dressed in black robes. He was balding a bit on top, but his coal black hair was still visible. He was not overweight by any means, but couldn't be described as skinny either. Hermione watched as he cleared his throat, beginning to speak.
"Ah, Ms. Granger, I'm glad we could meet today," he spoke summoning her over to a chair across from his desk. Hermione gave him a smile and sat down in a cushy armchair.
"I'm also glad we could meet Terence. I must admit this meeting saved me from reading over any more files," she replied.
He chuckled and made his way over to a table with tea and biscuits.
"Would you like something to drink Hermione?" he questioned as he poured himself a cup of tea and picked off a biscuit of tea from the tray.
"Oh no thank you sir."
Hermione watched as he carefully set his tea down on his tidy desk, and leaned back in his chair.
"Lovely day isn't?" questioned the Minister, attempting to lighten the mood.
"Very lovely day sir," replied Hermione, responding with a weak smile. She watched as he folded and refolded his hands, almost pondering what to say.
"Knowing you Hermione, you probably are pondering the reason why I sent for you this morning." He took a quick sip of his tea, and set his eyes on hers.
"Yes minister, I have been wondering the very question." She watched as he lifted himself out of his leather chair, and began to slowly pace behind his desk. He crossed his large and weathered hands behind his back, and again coughed to clear his throat.
"I assume that you are aware with the alliance that we have formed with Bulgaria in the past week?"
Hermione furrowed her brow, attempting to figure out how this statement fit in with her meeting.
"Of course minster, it has been noted as one of the best alliances in wizard history. We both have very powerful wizarding nations." Hermione replied to his question and studied the minister's face.
"Yes this was a very critical move. We want the Bulgarians on our side. We need them as allies. We must do everything in our power to keep this alliance strong."
Hermione was beginning to feel as if she was missing a major point. How am I supposed to help strengthen the alliance between the wizarding worlds of Bulgaria and Britain?
"Hermione, you are aware of the species of the Eastern Ridgeback dragon?"
Hermione answered this quickly. After all, she was the Head of Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures department, and knew almost every magical creature species known to wizards.
"Yes Terence, they are an extremely rare breed of dragon, usually found in the mountains of the British Highlands, and Scotland. There have only been a few recorded sightings of this type, and I believe that we do have a few in the dragon sanctuary in Romania. Why are you asking me this?" Hermione stated.
"Very good. I am asking you this question Ms. Granger, because Bulgaria wants an Eastern Ridgeback Dragon for their territory in their own country.
"But sir, why would they?"
Terence turned to face Hermione, placing his hands on his chair.
"Simply because, they do not possess this animal in their dragon sanctuary, and want the creature to breed and strengthen their dragon blood lines."
"But this is absurd! Do you understand how difficult it is to move a creature of that size across several different countries! Surely muggles will see a flying dragon, even if it is at night, and it would be impossible to control all the sightings!"she stated, anger flaring in her voice.
"I understand Hermione. But this alliance with Bulgaria is extremely important, and we must agree to their wishes. I understand that this will add a large workload to your schedule, but I must emphasize its importance." His pleading eyes met hers, and Hermione was forced to reply.
"It can be done minister, however it will take time to create a plan as intricate as this," she spoke, the stress already visible in her voice.
"Oh I'm quite aware of that Ms. Granger, but your efforts will not be wasted."
Terence sat down in his chair and faced Hermione.
"Since this is an international assignment, and various countries will be involved, you will be working with the Department of International Magical Cooperation. "
"Of course sir."
Hermione sighed. Working with other departments on projects could get complicated, and the fact that she wouldn't have entire control over the situation wasn't comforting. She began to collect her things, dying to escape from his office. But before was able to stand up, Terence spoke once more.
"And when I say Department of International Magical Cooperation, I am speaking specifically of the fabulous Head of the department, my close colleague Draco Malfoy."
Her neatly organized notes and quills tumbled out of her hands. As terror began to grip her entire body, she began to shake.
"W-W-W-hat? You mean D-Draco Malfoy?"
"Why yes of course Hermione. He is absolutely wonderful, quite the motivator. He doesn't complete a task unless it is completed to precise perfection. He is the single reason why the alliance treaty with Bulgaria was signed. I have a meeting scheduled for you two at the end of the week, you know, to discuss your ideas on how to safely move this creature to Bulgaria." He beamed at Hermione, unaware of the state of shock that her body was now in.
"I'll get to work on this right away sir. Thank you for your time," she quietly replied.
Hermione quickly left the room she heard him yell a cheery goodbye, and started to run to the elevator, desperate to make it to her office before she broke down.
Draco Malfoy sat at his office desk, re-reading over and over the article that featured his name.
"It is not a secret of Mr. Malfoy's success in his head position, or of his close relationship with Minister of Magic Terence Fletcher. Rumors have circulated that when Fletcher retires, Malfoy will be given……"
Laying the Daily Prophet on his desk, he placed his arms behind his head, and leaned back further in his chair.
Everything in Draco Malfoy's life was perfect. At just the age of 25, he had acquired a coveted head ministry position, had millions in his account, and successfully signed a large treaty that had brought him even more fame and acclamation. He could get any woman he wanted, just with his drop-dead looks. He couldn't even begin to name half of the beauties that he had been with.
After being tainted with the reputation of Voldemort supporters after the war, the Malfoys had done everything in their power to change their reputation. Draco had broken away from his past as a death eater, and had become one of the most powerful people in the wizarding world. He even knew of speculation that he would even be appointed to Minister of Magic if Terence ever retired. Everything is perfect, he thought, what more could I want?"
His thoughts went to his agenda. Oh how he wanted to avoid the dinner date with Daphenne. Draco rolled his eyes at just the thought of her. She was only concerned in who was wearing what, and how her hair was done. She had no concern of politics like Draco did, and to be quite honest, she was a bore. He will admit though, she is very beautiful, and being seen with the French Minister's daughter is always a plus. Even with these negatives, the thought of going home to an empty mansion was unappealing. So maybe he wouldn't cancel dinner after all.
Draco snapped back into focus when he heard knocking at his door.
"Come in," he replied.
The door opened to reveal Lenard Grindow, Terence's chief advisor and close friend. Draco slid the paper to the corner of his desk and warmly welcomed his colleague.
"Well if it isn't Mr. Grindow," Draco greeted him as he stood up from his desk, "How is Terence treating you today?"
Lenard reached out a hand to give Draco a firm handshake.
"The usual Draco, the usual," he replied with a chuckle, "How is my successful young friend?"
"I'm doing very well Lenard, thank you," answered Draco as he went over to a tray of drinks for himself and his guest. After Lenard gave a nod of approval, Draco poured him a drink and ushered him to the chair across from him. The two men sat face to face, with Draco behind his desk, a drink in hand.
"Business as good as usual Lenard?"
"Oh yes. With your signing of this treaty, Terence's approval ratings are sky-rocketing, and Britain's leadership in the wizarding world is more concrete than ever before," Lenard replied, looking very pleased.
"Good to hear."
Draco smirked, counting more praise for his actions with Bulgaria. As he looked at his friend, he realized that Lenard's facial expressions conveyed that he came to conduct business, not just to chat.
"If I may Lenard, what brings you down to my office at this time of day?" Draco questioned.
He watched as Lenard fidgeted in his seat.
"Well Draco, Terence could not make it here to deliver a message so I took his place. If concerns your assignment with the Eastern Ridgebacks transfer to Bulgaria."
Draco sat up in his chair. His remembered from the previous week, when Terence had briefed him on his daunting task of transferring the rare dragons to please the Bulgarians. As if the stress of moving massive dragons across the European continent wasn't enough, he also had the eyes of the wizarding world watching him to see if his actions were successful. This sounded like there were more complications in the operation. What do the Bulgarians want now?
"Has the assignment changed?"
"Oh absolutely not. Everything is the same. This concerns who will assist you in this matter," replied Lenard, his face tightening up.
"I already know who is aiding me, Lenard. Members of the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures Department. Terence briefed me on this last week."
"Yes, but he decided that it would be easier if the logistics were made with a lesser amount of people," answered Lenard as he crossed his legs and leaned back in his chair. Draco watched him uncomfortably, wondering how his assignment had changed. Trying to calm his nerves, he reached for his glass and began to take a sip.
"Terence wants you to plan the logistics with the Head of the Magical Creature Department, Hermione Granger."
In just an instant, Draco had choked on his drink, putting him into a coughing fit. Lenard, startled, reached for his handkerchief and offered it to Draco to clean his drink of his shirt. Draco took it, dabbing at the stains that had splattered his dress shirt. After Draco caught his breath, he reclined back into his chair.
"Hermione Granger? As in best friend of Harry Potter Hermione Granger?" he questioned pleadingly.
Lenard let out a laugh.
"Yes of course! What other Hermione Granger would I be referring to?"
Draco brought his hand to his face and ran them through his white blond hair.
Hermione Granger.
The last time they had spoken, he had been clutching her to his chest, trying to hold back tears of his pain. Eight years ago.
Just one mention of her name flooded his mind with memories from their love affair at Hogwarts.
His mind went to the nights that they had spent together, holding each other to morning, and kissing until their lips were sore, and the time that……..No. Stop, he pleaded with himself, That's done with.
Draco looked back at Lenard's puzzled face, giving him an unconvinced smile.
"Well, I mean it makes logical sense, seeing that she is the Head of the Department."
Lenard looked even more confused.
"Indeed she is."
Draco stood up and made his way towards the door.
"It was nice to see you Lenard. Thank you for delivering Terence's message. Tell him I said hello."
Lenard stood up out of his seat and made his way over to Draco. He began to shake his head, chuckling and he laid a hand on Draco's shoulder.
"Sometimes Draco Malfoy, you act very peculiar. But, if it gets you all of your success, then I see no problem in it! It was nice seeing you. I will pass on your greetings to Terence."
Draco watched as Lenard gave a quick wave goodbye, and exit through the doors. As he heard the doors click shut, his mind immediately went back to Hermione. Bringing a hand to his face, Draco made his way over to a nearby couch, throwing himself on it.
Hermione Granger.
They couldn't work together on this assignment. It wasn't possible. They had purposely distanced themselves as much as they could so they would be able to forget each other and move on with their lives. Draco heard himself let out a sigh.
All of the memories that he had repressed for eight years seemed to replay in his head. From the moment where they had confessed their love for one another, to holding her as she cried for the terrible death of Cedric Diggory, to the night where he had committed his notorious act on the top of the astronomy tower, leaving her alone to aid Potter in defeating Voldemort.
No, no, no. It's done. Stop.
Attempting to get his mind off his past, Draco went immediately to his desk and picked up his unread Daily Prophet from the corner. By immersing himself in the headlines, he would surely forget about his assignment. Page by page, article by article, Draco read over every single word. He read over his article again, praising himself for the success that he had earned.
Then there it was. In the commitment section, a giant photo of Hermione with than none other than Weasley was plastered in the section.
She looked the same. Sure, maybe a bit more matured, but she was the same. He glanced at her partner, his merry and somewhat vacant expression still visible under his red locks.
So it was true, Hermione was engaged to Weasley. Sure, everyone knew that they had been together since after the war, but now they had finally taking the final step. Draco didn't know why he was so surprised at the photo. He knew that Hermione would probably end up with him, and that Weasley had been in love with her after he finished his quick fling with the ditzy lavender Brown. He suddenly realized that he was shocked only because he could only picture himself by her side after everything that they had been through. It was strange to visually see her with someone else. It was just, strange. Draco shook his head, shaking off the thoughts. "That happened eight years ago! She's with Weasley now. We are going to work on this assignment, with no thoughts about our past whatsoever. We will be professional and complete this task with Bulgaria."
Draco took in a deep breath as the memories submerged beneath him. Remembering that he should get back to his work, Draco set to Prophet down in the corner of his desk again. Just as he was about to reach for his quil, his eyes caught the large photo of Hermione and Ron once again. As he studied the photo, he spoke an audible comment.
"I'm sure Hermione hated that."
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