This is very long chapter and lots of things happen in it that will be elaborated on in coming chapters- you may get frustrated in one part of this chapter but if you persist there is some reward at the end before building to a climax in the next chapter
Sorry for the delay - I went on holiday and thought I had posted it before I left
For the first time in what seems like forever Hermione's thoughts have not been consumed by sexual fantasies about Parkinson. She spent the remainder of the evening devising ways to find out more about Horcruxes, her mind mulling over the possible objects that would entice the likes of someone like Voldemort over and over, ideas and thoughts spinning around and around until she finally succumbed to sleep.
"Are you sure about this Hermione, can she be trusted?" asks Harry in a hushed voice over breakfast in the Great Hall the next morning
"Yes Harry," says Hermione chewing the inside of her mouth nervously
She's not sure but it's the best chance they have to find out more about Horcruxes
"I'm not sure we should tell anyone else"
Normally it's her who second guesses most of their ideas and adventures, questioning whether there might be a better way, but today it's Harry who is unsure
"Have you got a better idea?" she says mildly Irritated.
She has actually thought this through as opposed to being brash and just doing the first thing that pops into her head like Harry and Ron do so often.
"She's never let us down before mate" offers Ron "I trust Hermione," he says shrugging and reaching for a stack of pancakes
Smiling at Ron warmth of appreciation run through her it's rare for him to side with her over Harry.
"We'll do this tonight straight after dinner, that will give us more time, no one will be wondering where we are for a few hours. And by the time anyone thinks to ask about us, we will be back in the common room. They'll be none the wiser " Hermione says putting an end to the discussion
By the time dinner arrives Hermione is a bundle of nerves and it's her that is starting to second guess the plan. What if she's wrong, what if they encounter a Death Eater or worse what if they get caught and expelled? Contrary to her, both Harry and Ron seem to be overjoyed to be breaking the rules, their confidence and excitement regarding the plan building as the day progressed.
"Ok I've got everything," says Harry tapping his under his school jumper "we'll go as soon as Ron's finished eating"
Ron nods appreciatively. Never get in the way if that boy and food thinks Hermione smiling to herself.
Both Ron and Harry practically jump from the seats the moment Ron places his dessert spoon down dramatically to symbolise he's finished eating.
Safely away from the prying eyes and ears of the Great Hall Hermione asks "Harry your map highlights seven ways into Hogsmeade, which one takes us closest to Tomes and Scrolls?"
"You said the entrance through that one-eyed old crone's hump. That rooms not far from here right Harry" suggests Ron
"That's right Ron"
There's an undeniable mischievous look on their faces, which makes Hermione feel a little uneasy. They have obviously spoken about this unregistered trip to Hogsmeade
"So if it all goes according to plan Hermione we'll be back well before curfew?" asks Ron
"Yes, that's right Ron" Hermione replies cautiously
"That's good, plenty of time"
"Harry," Hermione asks slowly "where exactly in Hogsmeade does the passageway through the one-eyed old crone's hump end up?"
Hermione definitely knows they are up to something when Harry stares at his map as if he is studying it for the first time.
"It looks like it will take us to the cellar of Honeydukes" Harry replies innocently
"Harry, Ron this is not an excursion we have serious work to do" Hermione replies annoyed
"Aw come on Hermione" appeals Ron "we have plenty of time for both"
"What if we only go to Honeydukes once we visit Tomes and Scrolls" suggests Harry, his big green eyes pleading with Hermione to say yes
"Oh fine then " Hermione concedes, it's always hard to say no to Harry especially when he looks at her that way "let's go then," she says with a small smile shaking her head.
Successfully avoiding other students they arrive at the large stone statue of Gunhilda, the one-eyed crone, her single eye boring down at them daring them to try and pass her
"Dissendium," says Harry tapping the large hunchback of the statue with his wand to reveal a short stone slide for them to go down.
Harry followed by Hermione and then Ron land in a very narrow tight earthy passage.
"Single file will be easier" offers Harry crouching over so he doesn't hit his head on the stone ceiling
No wonder this passageway is guarded by a statue of a hunchback thinks Hermione who also has to bow her head also to avoid contact with the ceiling.
Hermione's back aches as they wind their way through the passageway that twists and turns like a rabbit's burrow, she can only imagine the pain that Harry and Ron are in given their tall statures but to their credit neither complain.
Finally, after what must be at least an hour they reach a large worn stone and a very steep staircase.
With Harry leading the way they eventually reach a large trap door. Using all his might Harry pushes the trapdoor aside to reveal the cellar of Honeydukes.
Barrels upon barrels of the most succulent-looking sweets imaginable line the walls. Giant chunks of creamy nougat, caramel coloured toffee, pile upon pile of every flavour bean and so much very more fill the room. Hermione hears Ron lick his lips as enters the cellar, she has to act quick or she will lose him in here.
"C'mon the quicker we get to Tomes and Scrolls the quicker we can come back to Honeydukes"
Nodding in agreeance Harry pulls out his invisibility cloak from beneath his shirt. Hermione notices Ron hungrily gazing at the sweets on offer as Harry covers the three of them.
Years of practice using the invisibility cloak has their walk perfectly synchronised to the point that they barely bump into anything despite the plethora of sweets in troughs and barrels tightly squeezed into the shop.
Once safely outside they remove the cloak and make their way towards Tomes and Scrolls. Mindful of the surroundings, one thing they do not want is to bump into one of their professors. The shops in Hogsmeade are staying open later tonight so it's quite possible that a professor may be picking up some additional supplies.
If Hogsmeade was picturesque during the day it was nothing compared to the beauty it oozes at twilight as the sun gently kisses goodbye the stunningly beautifully thatched roof cottages. Enchanted candles flicker and burn brightly in the shop windows and in the lush green Juniper trees illuminating the streets. Hermione breaths in deeply the coolness of the crisp fresh air and smell of gin like smell if the trees instantly easing her sore muscles.
She smiles to herself as she sees Mrs Fadington fussing about in her bookstore, her plump rear bouncing up and down as she places her precious books in order.
"Bloody hell" gasps Ron "25 galleons for a quill. That's bloody outrageous" Ron says staring at the brightly coloured quills in the shop front.
A twinge of guilt races through Hermione she hasn't given Parkinson her red quill back yet.
"C'mon" says Harry "Hermione you go in first you know her"
Pushing through the heavy wooden door they are greeted with the warmest hello imaginable.
"You're back my dear," says Mrs Fadington cheerily "and with some friends. Have you all come to see my new confounded sec..."
"No" says Hermione her cheeks burning in embarrassment at the memory of nearly being caught with that book "we were wondering...well that is"
"Oh my" gasps Mrs Fadington grasping at her chest "if it isn't Harry Potter himself"
" Good evening ma'am" mumbles Harry
"Ooohhh as handsome as he is polite. That's a rare find nowadays" says Mrs Fadington winking at Hermione "why if I was younger..."
Hermione and Ron can't help but giggle as Harry shifts uncomfortably from one foot to the other beside them.
"And who is this rather tall fellow?"
"Err Ron Weasley" replies Ron slightly uncomfortable that Mrs Fadington's focus was now on him
"Excuse me" interrupts Hermione before Mrs Fadington can question Ron "we were hoping you could help us with with some books on a particular topic?"
"Why of course" replies Mrs Fadington clapping her hands excitedly, smiling broadly at them all
"We were after some information regarding Horcruxes," says Hermione
The smile fades quickly from Mrs Fadingtons face, her bright eyes darkening as she stares down at them
"And why would you like a book on that subject?" Questions Mrs Fadington all the friendliness and warmth in her voice disappearing
"Research" replies Hermione nervously chewing the inside of her bottom lip this is not going well.
"That is very very dark magic, I do not think it's appropriate for you to be reading. What makes you think that I would even have such subject matter in my beautiful shop" Mrs Fadington says flatly
Hermione's heart drops this was their one true chance of finding out more if Mrs Fadington doesn't help them Hermione isn't sure there is anyone else to assist.
"Excuse me ma'am," says Harry politely "We know its dark magic and we can't explain why we need to find out more about Horcruxes but we just do. You're our only hope" His bright green eyes pleading with her like that have so many times before with Hermione
There is something in the way that Harry speaks that just melts your heart. His eyes gleam sincerity
Hermione breathes a small sigh of relief as Mrs Fadington's gestures begin to soften after a moment of staring intently at Harry.
"Oh very well, if you can't trust the chosen one who can you trust?" She concedes "follow me," she says leading them towards the back of the store "I do not keep these types of books readily available for anyone to purchase"
Hermione's cheeks burn as they pass the confounded section. It takes every ounce of constraint not to glance over at the book Witches Who Like Witches, that had captivated her not so long ago, she can't help but wonder whether she might get an opportunity to finish reading it.
Pulling aside a string of long colourful rainbow beads Mrs Fadington ushers them through to the back room.
Hermione gasps in appreciation, her eyes widen in awe. The darkened room is filled with books of varying sizes from the floor to the ceiling. Breathing in deeply the scent of aged parchment fills her sense, her fingers ache to reach out and trace along the aged leather tones, it is obvious that Mrs Fadington has a fine appreciation of the written word with each book immaculately stacked and cared for. In the center of the room sits a vintage table, candlelight flickers against the scrolls and quills lying across the table.
"Please take a seat. Would you like a tea and biscuit?"
"No thank you we just had dinner," say Hermione before Ron can reply. The sooner they get the book the sooner they can get back to Hogwarts and she can begin researching
Pulling at a long gold chain from her around her neck she retrieves a small golden key buried deep within her bosom.
"That's a safe spot" mumbles Ron rewarding him a sharp jab in the ribs with Hermione's elbow
Hidden behind one of the larger bookshelves is a smaller one barely noticeable as it is easily dwarfed by the others. Mrs Faddington pulls aside book to reveal a safe. Very clever thinks Hermione.
Whispering a charm as Mrs Fadington turns the key and the safe pops open. Hermione tries to peer around to see what other books may be hidden in there but her view is blocked by the store owners plump physique.
Mrs Fadington turns carefully with two large tired black leather bound books in hand. The worn and scratched gold lettering of the first text still clearly reads Magick Moste Evile. Hermione gasps as she reads the title of the second text, a rare tome that has been barred from many libraries and bookstores
"Is that Secrets of the Darkest Arts?" asks Hermione, her mouth agape " it's very rare."
Depends on who's library you are looking at but yes it is rather. I don't think I have ever said this before" says Mrs Fadington shaking her head "but it is a horrible, horrible book. Taking a deep breath she continues "It is the only known source of instructions on the" she pauses "creation and destruction of a Horcrux."
A shiver races down Hermione's spine Mrs Fadington did not have any qualms giving Hermione the other book Flora for and Against the Dark, and that had an abundance of dark magic in it that made Hermione very uneasy. She can not begin to imagine what this book contains.
Slowly passing the book to Hermione Mrs Fadington stops mid-flight "you do know what you are doing don't you" she says a concerned motherly look on her face
Hermione can merely nod as she reaches to meet Mrs Fadington hand and carefully take the books from her
"Consider this a loan only. I want these book back. And make sure no one else reads it"
All three are quiet except for the occasional sucking noise that is heard from Ron nibbling on a lolly from Honeydukes. The tomes weigh heavy in Hermione's arms, an uncomfortable energy trickling through her body as if the dark magic within the pages are seeping out into her very pores. The urge to pull herself away from the book as soon as she's back in the dorm is very strong.
This particular passage back to Hogwarts is far longer than the previous one they took through the one-eyed croan. Harry had failed to mention that they could not take the same path back as it is impossible to push through the hunch back. If he had Hermione would have ushered them out of Honeydukes a lot quicker.
The sky has darkened considerably, as they enter the grounds of Hogwarts.
"It's late, we should use the invisibility cloak," say Harry pulling it out from beneath his top
With the cloak covering them, the three friends huddle together and make their way into Hogwarts walking in perfect harmony
The corridors are empty and silent, it's past curfew, Hermione has permission to be out after all Dumbledore has said she can use the library at any time she needs, Harry and Ron do not have such luxury, if they are careful they will be back in the common room and no one will be none the wiser thinks Hermione.
Slowly and cautiously they make their way towards their common room. They do not want to be caught by a Professor particularly with the books Hermione has tightly tucked under arms.
The sudden sound of footsteps has them stopping abruptly. Each looking to each other to confirm they heard the same thing. The footsteps move closer, Hermione's heart begins to race, shifting her legs she has the sudden urge to pee
Still, the footsteps come closer they are heading straight for them.
"We'll be fine as long as we stay under the cloak" whispers Hermione as they edge towards the wall to make way for individual to pass
With baited breath they wait, the steps getting closer and closer louder and louder. Hermione can feel her heart beating hard against her chest, the palms of her hands sweat against the leather tomes as she grips them tightly, waiting until finally around the corner comes Parkinson.
Hermione's breath hitches what is she doing out past curfew she thinks
Pressed firmly against the cold hard wall they wait for Parkinson to pass
"What the hell is Parkinson doing out" whispers Ron harshly once Parkinson has passed them "letting another werewolf in to get Hermione?"
"Let's follow her and find out" say Harry before Hermione can reply
Her heart instantly beating even faster she has no option but to follow. Please please let Parkinson be heading back to her dorm, prays Hermione.
Scenario after scenario play over in her mind. Her heart plummets at the thought that Parkinson may be meeting someone.
Students were renown for sneaking out of their dorms past curfew for late night rendezvous with students from other houses. The thought of someone touching Parkinson the way she wants to touch her sickens her.
On their own accord, Hermiones eyes drift down Parkinson's slender spine, biting her bottom lip stifling an appreciative moan as her eyes soak in Parkinson's perfectly peach shaped rear, the strong muscles pulling her skirt against her as she moves with effortless beauty. The perfect swivel of Parkinson's hips, they way they sway from side to side mesmerising her drawing heat down her spine building in her fire. It is all of the sudden very hot beneath the cloak, she feels claustrophobic, Harry and Ron feel too close to her.
As quiet as they try the combination of three pairs of footsteps against the hard floor has Parkinson spinning around wand in hand ready to attack
"Who's there?" demands Parkinson the slight quiver in her voice and tremor in her hands giving away the fear she is feeling
Her eyes are wide as she scans the hallway past them wand in hand. Hermione can clearly hear Parkinson's breath has quickened in fear in the deathly silence of the night.
Her heart sinks she wants to reach out and comfort Parkinson tell her she has nothing to fear, it's just her she's safe. But how could Parkinson possibly feel safe with three Gryffindors barring down at her in the middle of the night
Moments pass, Parkinson catches a glimpse of the moonlight stream through a window onto her hand, slowly her eyes follow the beams towards the moon shining down "Not a full moon" whispers Parkinson to herself in relief.
Finally convinced that she is alone Parkinson continues down the hallway turning towards the library.
"Wait" whispers Hermione softly as both Ron and Harry make to follow her again "you go back to the common room with the books. I'll follow Parkinson"
She's not completely sure what makes her say it but the thought of Parkinson feeling scared ambushed by three Gryffindors drives her to
"We're not leaving you alone with a Death Eater" Ron whispers back harshly
"She's not a Death Eater Ron. Listen, I'll be fine I'm allowed to be out you two are not and these books" she says pointing to the texts "I don't want to be caught with them, what if they get confiscated then what"
"Hermione..." begins Harry his voice laced with concern
"I'll take the invisibility cloak she won't even know I'm here. We can't lose these books to Filch or anyone else"
"No way," says Ron firmly crossing his arms
"You'll be careful?" asks Harry after a moment of silence.
"Harry" says a shocked Ron.
"She's got a point, Ron we can't afford to lose these books. Just be careful" Harry says turning to Hermione
"If she tries anything, punch her in the nose like you punched Malfoy, and hex her too" Ron advises knowing he had no chance of winning this debate of two against one.
"Ron I will not punch her" Hermione scolds "I have no intention of getting seen by her"
"C'mon Ron lets go. We will wait for you back in the common room" says Harry
With the invisibility on Hermione watches as her two best friends walk away from her, rolling her eyes at Ron's mumblings something about leaving one of their own with a Death Eater
Hermione is short of breath as she swiftly makes her way down the hallways hoping she is retracing Parkinson's footsteps correctly. She has assumed that Parkinson has made her way to the library, but there are many hidden passages in Hogwarts that Parkinson may have gone down
Relief washes over her when she sees Parkinson sitting at the same desk she and Ron sat at the other evening waiting for Harry. Only a few texts and parchments lay before her she is scribing something intently
Relief quickly turns to nerves and curiosity. What is Pansy Parkinson doing in the library after curfew and what is she studying thinks Hermione
Deciding she needs to get a closer look Hermione cautiously moves towards Parkinson careful not to make too much noise, her heart drumming frantically against her chest with every small step she takes. Nervous energy races through her legs, her belly alight with flutters. With her eyes firmly fixed ahead, she tries to steady her breathing until she catches the scent of Parkinson's perfume, unlocking her memory banks and transporting her back to that evening in the Filch's cleaning cupboard and every other shared class since then. It was such a heavenly smell, so warm and sensual with its fruity composition and traces of powdery vanilla.
Her pulse pounding against her temples she forgets all about the parchment Parkinson is reading instead soaking in all of Parkinson's fine features.
She breathes in deeply as the moonlight cascades through the window kissing Parkinson's pale skin, her dark black hair shimmering against the moonbeams she's beautiful thinks Hermione aching to reach out and stroke her hair. Her eyes flow down to the full and pillowy shape of Parkinson 's lip.
An electric charge streams down her spine, all thoughts giving way to the sensation of pins and needles dancing in her pants. A feeling of uncontrollable heat begins resonating through her. Her mouth becoming dry, her muscles tensing and an overwhelming excitement bubbling within her.
There's that little pout Parkinson does when she reads, the same pout she first noticed in potions and had consumed her thoughts and desires ever since. She wants to lean over and cup her cheeks in her hands and taste those lips to see if they actually taste as sweet as their cherry colour. She can feel the soft cloth of the cloak pushing out and back against her lip and as her breath quickens.
Shifting uncomfortably, she tries to remain calm and collected but the overwhelming throbbing in her heart and between her legs is consuming her.
And when Parkinson loosens her Slytherin tie undoing the first two buttons of her crisp white school shirt she thinks she might actually faint.
Leaning against the nearest bookshelf for support the cracking sound the old wood makes snaps her back to attention.
Parkinson's eyes shoot up staring directly at Hermione. Holding her breath Hermione scoots behind the nearest bookshelf, stay calm she tells herself. The invisibility cloak weighing down and closing in on her all the same, with tense breath she forces herself to breathe, pulling the cloak off in desperate need of fresh air.
Get a hold of yourself, this is ridiculous you're acting like...like Seamus she scolds herself
Summoning courage from who knows where she steps out from behind the shelf. Remember why you're here she tells herself Find out what Parkinson is up to
Parkinson now with her back to Hermione leans casually on the palm of her hand as she returns to reading.
"Parkinson"
It takes every ounce of constraint not to burst out laughing as Parkinson jumps In her seat swirling around faster than a classroom of Cornish Pixies
"Merlin Granger" gasps Parkinson clasping at her chest reaching for her wand
"Sorry" says Hermione trying her best not to laugh
"It's not funny Granger. There's a bloody war coming and you're sneaking around like some... like some... like something...I could have hexed you"
"You'll have to be faster than that, your wand is a bit limp' says Hermione nodding towards the downward pointing wand in Parkinson's hand
She can't quite explain it but there is something about Parkinson being caught off guard her usual prime composure being frazzled that brings out a cheeky streak in Hermione that she didn't know she had.
The fire now in Parkinson's eyes sends a shiver down her spine. With a sky grin, Parkinson lifts her wand slowly pointing it directly at Hermione.
"Would you like to me hex you, Granger?"
Any other time someone pointing a wand at Hermione threatening to hex her would have reaching for her own wand ready for battle but there is something a little more playful in Parkinson's tone
Drunk on lust, the excitement of the moment along with the longing pressure in her loins builds with every passing moment.
"Do you think you have what it takes?"
There was that undeniable air of challenge surrounding them. The gloves had been thrown down.
Shrugging her shoulder with a devious twinkle in her eye "let's just say I've been reading up on things" says Parkinson
There is something in Parkinson's tone that Hermione can't quite place but it has peaked her curiosity. It's almost as if she has found something in the library that Hermione should know but has missed.
Hermione is about to ask her what she means when the sound of something resembling stepping on a child's squeaky toy stops her. It's Mrs Norris the scrawny dust coloured cat and loyal accomplice to Argus Filch, caretaker of Hogwarts and one of the most disliked individuals about, who takes immense pleasure in punishing students. If he had his way the old punishments of students being hung from shackles would be a daily occurrence.
"Meow"
Hermione had never wanted to hurt an animal before but right now she was fighting the urge to kick Mrs Norris with her bulgy yellow eyes right over the bookshelves for interrupting Parkinson and her
"You better hide. Filch will be close behind and you'll get into trouble" says Hermione wanting to protect Parkinson from detention
"I'm allowed to be here" she adds a twinge of pride in her tone
"And Why would I have to hide?"
"For being out past curfew, of course", replies Hermione "just because you're in the library doesn't mean you can't get into trouble"
"What makes you think I don't have permission too?"
"Who would give you permission?
Regret showers over Hermione the moment the words spill from her mouth. Parkinson's eyes fill with pain which is quickly replaced by anger
"I didn't..."
"Who the hell do you think you are Granger?" spits Parkinson "you're not the only one with brains and some talent" she says now stuffing her books and parchment into her school bag angrily
"I didn't mean it like that" pleas Hermione
But Parkinson is too angry to acknowledge Hermione's attempt at an apology "this is too hard, just too hard, too hard, she's too hard " mumbles Parkinson to herself like a crazed person "just too hard, there's a war and I'm trying to ugh"
"Meow"
"Shut up you flea infested fur bag. Get out of here before I turn you into a fur hat" says Parkinson angrily to Mrs Norris "and tell your precious little owner if he or you bother me again while I am studying I will respond in the way us pure blood used to treat servants"
The threat has Mrs Norris scurrying from the library tail erect
"Parkinson" whispers Hermione cautiously "I didn't..."
"Do you really think you're going to win?" shoots Parkinson towards Hermione
"W.. what" stutters Hermione
"War Granger. You know who. Come on keep up" says Parkinson snapping her fingers before throwing her school bag over her shoulder to make exit from the library
"Parkinson" calls out Hermione as Parkinson begins to leave
Stopping with her back still to Hermione "He's too strong Granger, you can't beat him" says Parkinson softly head bowed down
Swimming with confusion it's takes a moment for Hermione to catch up, she should be used to it. This is what happens when you are on the brink of a war. One moment you could be laughing with your friends the next you are encompassed in overwhelming melancholy at the thought that they are hurt or worse in a war. They say all roads lead to Rome holds true unless there is a war brewing and then all roads and discussion inevitable turn to war, death and despair for the unknown.
"I have to try" replies Hermione just as softly
"You might lose"
"Some things are worth fighting for" she says. It's something has told herself many times over the years
"You could die"
"They say some things are worth dying for"
"Well, they are stupid. I don't have any intention of dying not for anyone or anything." says Parkinson matter of factly
And with final statement, Parkinson leaves the library leaving Hermione standing there alone sadness sitting hard on her chest.
Like slow waves on a shore regret and heartache wash over her. Her jaw quivering in painful agony as she tries to control her tears. She longs to go back to a few moments ago when everything was fine and the promise of something exciting loomed in the air. She waits a few moments hoping Parkinson will come back but she doesn't.
With a heavy heart and tears threatening to spill down her cheeks Hermione somehow manages to make it back to her common room dazed and operating in complete autopilot not even realising she had arrived at her destination until the Fat Lady asked her for the password.
Taking a deep breath she straightens her back bracing herself she knows the boys will be waiting for her report back, as much as she just wants to run to her room and bury her face into her pillow and desperately let the tears flow she can't and she has a role to play sadness is not one of them.
"Hermione what happen?"
"What's Parkinson up to?"
The questions come as soon as she enters
"I don't know Mrs Norris interrupted us" Hermione confesses. A twinge of hatred bellows in her for that blasted cat
"That bloody cat, someone should feed her to fang" says Ron
"Sorry" she says sadly
"That's ok Hermione, we'll work it out," says Harry
Harry has taken her sadness as her failure in obtaining information for them. The sincerity in his voice making it hard for her to maintain her composure.
The air restricting around her like heavy weights on her shoulders she needs to leave, she can't stay another moment tears threatening to break free
"I'm going to bed I'll start reading the book tomorrow," she says
"Hermione" Harry's calls after her but she can't turn around
Panting for air Hermione races into the girl's bathroom, a carousel of confusion plaguing her thoughts. Hitting her forehead against the now closed bathroom door her body writhe in agony, tears flow uncontrollably down her cheeks. Turning she slides slowly down the door to the floor, hugging her knees to her chest her pulse pounding in her temples dropping her wet face between her knees she begins sobbing loudly, It's true they could lose this battle, she could die, her friends could die that final thought has her digging her nail deep into her flesh painfully but nothing would compare to the emotional pain of losing her friends. She can't imagine a life without Ron, Harry, Ginny, Neville...Hermione inhales deeply almost choking on the hot tears still streaming down her face, Parkinson she would actually miss Parkinson too this is ridiculous she tells herself not even two months ago she would have hexed Parkinson and Parkinson would have easily hexed her too without batting an eyelid and now she's sitting on a cold bathroom floor practically hyperventilating over her. I don't even know what side of this war she on, I don't even know how she actually feeling none of this would be happening had it not been for that one ridiculous night that one uncharacteristic kiss. I don't even know if we would be able to speak to one another let alone compatible, she's been an absolute cow to me up until now and still the thoughts swirl around her brain as the tears flow freely
Parkinson and I it's as if the gods are against us, warning us against each other every time we are alone someone or something interrupts us.
Parkinson's right this is too hard "I give up" whispers Hermione aloud
Rubbing her knuckles deep into her eyes the incalculable rhythmically sound of water slowly hitting the porcelain surface rouses Hermione from a deep slumber. First aware of the coolness of the air followed by the hardness of the floor it takes a moment for Hermione to realise that she must have cried herself to sleep in the bathroom. Unsure of the time. Her body flinching as she tries to get up, everything hurts her neck muscles spasm. The combination of the one-eyed tight passage to Hogsmeade and sleeping on the floor has her body feeling bruised and sore, her shoulders knotted into a dull annoying ache
Groaning like an old woman riddled with arthritis she manages to pull herself up from the chilled floor
Catching a glimpse of her reflection in the mirror "I look a right mess" she says her eyes still puffy as she tries to wipe away the remanence of dried tears and snot from her face "I can't let anyone see me like this" ignoring the pain in her shoulder as she straightens her shoulders staring back deep into her own eyes, with a determined chin "and I'll be damn if anyone lets me feel like that again" she promises herself firmly before heading to the shower.
Her muscles feel bruised and tired as she sits in her reserved spot next to Harry and opposite Ron. She has done her best to cover the bags under her eyes and if anyone has noticed how tired she must look they are not saying it, perhaps just assuming she stayed up all night studying as she has done so many nights before
An internal battle of will versus desire ensuing inside her unbeknown to all those around her. As hard as it is Hermione is making a concerted effort to look over at the Slytherin table, the pull to just glance over just once to see how Parkinson slept how she looks is strong but instead, she remains focused on the plate before her. She made a promise to herself this morning and she wasn't going to break it.
"Harry I might say you will have a big fall and break something actually maybe two things," says Ron adding another fluffy pancake to the already large stack on his plate
"What?" says Hermione confused she hadn't been listening to their conversation
"In Divination tonight with Trewlaney"
"Oh great" huffs Hermione rolling her eyes she had completely forgotten tonight was their monthly compulsory elective Divination lesson and to top it off it's with the Slytherins. She's actually so emotionally drained from the previous evening she barely feels anything "what an absolute waste of time. Honestly, I don't know what benefit this is to anyone"
"Well the way Dumbledore has been whispering in Trewlaneys ear maybe someone is getting some benefit," says Seamus winking and nodding towards the professor's table.
"Seamus" scolds Hermione "that is just disgusting"
"See for your self"
Turning to the professor's table, sure enough, Dumbledore is talking quite closely to Trewlaney like he doesn't want the other professors to hear.
Hermione tries to recall that day a few weeks ago catching the two professors talking on her way to the library, it didn't look like they were lovers talking but Hermione was so preoccupied with thoughts of Parkinson that she wasn't paying much attention to anything else
The screeching and flapping of hundreds of owls swooping in through the windows to deliver the daily mail break her thoughts.
She hears the students all around her gasp in admiration. Souring towards her is not the usual tawny barn owl that brings her morning subscriptions to the daily prophet but one of the largest most majestic owls she has ever seen, its wingspan must be at least five feet. It soars high above around her not once not but twice but three times as if to announce its arrival to all the other owls and students in the room. All eyes are on this magnificent bird.
Landing with a thud in front of Hermione she is so taken aback by its distinctive ear tufts and bright big orange eyes that resemble the colour of pumpkins staring intently at her that she doesn't notice the package in its talons.
"It's a Eurasian eagle owl" she hears Neville "whisper they are rare"
"Hermione someone sent you flowers" exclaims Ginny excitedly nudging her
"What?"
"Flowers. Look"
In the talons of the owl is one of the prettiest bouquet of colourful flowers Hermione has ever seen. Their sweet almost sickly, smell cutting through the scent the mornings breakfast.
Her cheeks flush red in embarrassment as she takes the bouquet from the owl "thank you"
With a deep hoot the owl soars off but not before completing another lap of honour around the great hall.
"Ooooh how romantic" coos Lavender Brown
"Who are they from?" asks Ginny eagerly
"I don't know there isn't a card" replies Hermione overwhelmed and in shock, she has never received flowers before let alone in such a dramatic fashion but she can't suppress a small happy smile
"Well it's someone who really like you if those flowers are to go by," says Neville peering over the table
"What do you mean?" asks Lavender
"Flowers have meanings, my gran told me there was a wizard who fell in love with a muggle girl years ago, but her father didn't like him or want her seeing him so they had secret affair he couldn't really send her messages via owl so every morning he would send her secret messages they devised through flowers. Somehow muggles cotton on to it too I'm not sure how. Anyhow, I think those flowers are all about love."
Neville was right thinks Hermione she remembers one of those mystery shows on the BBC she watched, It was one of her grandmas favourites, two female gardeners and make be detectives would solve murder mysteries in the setting of professional gardening jobs. One of the episodes was all about the language of flowers.
"Oh how absolutely beautiful," says Lavender "Hermione we have to work out who they are from"
"This is exciting," says Ginny to a blushing Hermione
"You seem to know a lot about those particular flowers mate," says Ron harshly sitting with his arms folded across his chest and cheeks almost red as his hair
"I didn't send them honestly," says Neville holding up his hands In surrender "I wouldn't send Hermione flowers I mean I would," he says turning to Hermione in a fluster "but I didn't" he adds quickly turning back to Ron
"Is there a problem Ron?" asks Hermione her eyes flashing dangerously.
"Ron" warns Harry and Ginny simultaneously they just know Ron is about to throw himself feet and body first into trouble
" Are you sure they are not hexed?"
"And why would they be hexed?"
"Well, why would someone give you flowers?
Feeling likes she has just been slapped in the face, Hermione shoots up from her seat collecting her flowers. She can't do this not today, she has absolutely no patience for Ron and his insensitive comments after the emotional night she just had.
"Ronald Bilius Weasley, you are a complete ass. Maybe, just maybe " Hermione says her voice raising "someone has actually spotted that I am a girl"
Hermione whose face is stricken storms from the Great Hall before any angry tears can fall but not before hearing Ron say. "What did I say? Maybe it's Cormack he'll go after everyone and anyone"
Leaning against the nearest wall safe from the others students in the great hall, she inhales deeply the floral fragrances clasped in her hands. The emotional pain Ron had just caused slowly seeping away being replaced by hope that perhaps Parkinson sent her the flowers. Her heart drops but after last night why would Parkinson send her flowers, she doesn't want to admit it but maybe Ron is right maybe they are from someone else maybe even a secret message from someone in The Order. She needs to work out the message in the flowers
With flowers in hand she makes her way to the glasshouse, if anyone would know the meaning of these flowers it would be Professor Sprout their Herbology Professor
The smell of fresh soil and humid moist air hits Hermione the moment she pushes through glass doors to the greenhouse.
Professor Sprout with her flyaway grey hair and patched, frayed hat is humming to herself as she re-pots some plants into a bigger pot. Hermione could have sworn she just saw the leaf of the plant gentle stroke Mrs Sprouts cheek in thanks.
"Excuse me professor," says Hermione smiling
"Miss Granger, what do I owe this pleasure, ohhhh what do you have there? Someone is lucky in love" says a smiling Professor
"I was hoping you could tell me more about the meaning of the flowers I believe all flowers have meanings?
"Ohhh yes they do, very good Ms Granger very good. Floral arrangements, allowed witches and wizards and even muggles to express feelings which otherwise could not be spoken. It's an old art form that is nearly lost with owls the preferred way to convey secret messages. This is very exciting I have a book here" says Professor Sprout moving her dumpy little body swiftly towards a tower of texts
Hermione can't help but cringe, the texts are covered in dirt and are a little tattered like Professor Sprout's robes. She could never treat her beloved books like that
"Ah, here it is," says Professor Sprout pulling out a thin worn text "let's see what flowers do you have there in your bouquet" peering at the flowers in Hermione's hands she begins flipping through the book
Hermione chews on her bottom lip in nervous anticipation
"The beautiful bright red catchfly" whispers Professor Sprout to herself "meaning I fall victim, what else is there?" She says examining the bouquet "Red camellia means you're a flame in my heart" her smile growing broader, Hermione can't help but smile with her "Hearts Easr you occupy my thoughts. Tuberose ohh rare and means dangerous pleasure, white violet means let's take a chance. I don't think I need to read much more It's quite obvious my dear you have an admirer" says Professor Sprout a broad grin plastered on her chubby face "you know our young Mr Longbottom has a vast knowledge of flowers"
With her cheeks flushing red Hermione replies "thank you, professor, but it's not Neville, I'm not sure who it is "
"Well if you happen to find out and you like them too you may want to send some Jonquil flowers. I just happen to have a little pot out the back"
"What do Jonquil flowers mean?" Asks Hermione
"Affection returned and desire," says Professor Sprout wiggling her eyebrows up and down cheekily
Hermione's cheeks are burning bright as she leaves the greenhouse with her bouquet of flowers and a bunch of Jonquils.
Her thoughts are charging horses pulling in opposite directions, on the one hand, it could be Parkinson that sent the flowers but it easily not be. Playing with the fragile leaves she ponders does she take the risk of being wrong and rejected if she sends Parkinson a Jonquil, and how is she even going to get it to her without being caught.
Her mind a swirl of thoughts as she heads back to her dorm to drop off the flowers before class but not before slipping a single Jonquil flower in her bag.
The rest of the day continued without incident Ron and she had quasi-made up, although anytime anyone would mention the flowers Ron would walk away. Hermione herself had spent most of the day trying to find the most opportune time to slip Parkinson the Jonquil flower without success.
Heading towards the North Tower for their Divination class her heart skips a beat she can hear Parkinson and Daphne Greengrass talking behind her, this would be her opportunity to get the flower to Parkinson. Her mind races to find a way without being detected.
Stepping ahead of Ron and Harry she pushes open the circular trap door to the North tower letting them both step through. Holding the trap door open she waits for Daphne and Parkinson
"Thanks," says a smiling Daphne "actually I wanted to ask it would be great if we could have regular tutoring sessions"
"We're going to be late" interrupts Parkinson pushing Daphne through the trap door before Hermione can reply.
This is Hermione's chance with Parkinson distracted she slips the delicate white and yellow flower into her bag. Her fingers and toes tingle in anticipation and hope.
The overwhelming smell of incense makes Hermione cough as she enters the classroom, which hardly looks like a place of learning if you ask Hermione with its brightly coloured pouffes and armchairs scattered around the room in place of proper tables and chairs, the ridiculous number of teapots lining the walls and not to mention the abundance of crystals balls of varying sizes about the place.
Sinking awkwardly into pouffe next to Harry and Ron her legs are shaking nervously as she tries to see steal an inconspicuous look at Parkinson to see if she has found the flower her stomach knotted up.
Suddenly the soft misty ethereal voice of Professor Trewlaney appears from the shadows
'Welcome,' she says her hugely magnified bug-like eyes goggling at them. "Sit, my children, sit, NO wait" she says holding up her bangle and ring cladded hand, her innumerable shawls and scarves trailing around her as she begins the shaking her hand "the powers above have spoken to me. I must listen. The configuration in this room is not conducive to the gift of sight"
"You," she says pointing to Harry and Ron "you have the gift of the beyond, come, come sit over here" she says ushering them to another area of the room leaving Hermione on her own
"Beyond what" mumbles Ron shrugging his shoulders at Harry a confused look on his face
"And you over here," she says to Neville and promptly bumping into a table as she places him on his own in the corner away from any teacups which he often breaks during any Divination lesson
Spinning around the room she stops before Parkinson, her hands gently waving slowly around Parkinson's hair "My dear, your aura is absolutely pulsing. Come with me"
Hermione notices Parkinson roll her eyes behind Professor Trewlaney's as she leads her around the room. Hermione's heart thumps against her chest as the professor and Parkinson make their way towards her "sit here" she says pointing the spot that Harry had sat in moments earlier
The hairs on the back of Hermione's neck stand to attention as Parkinson slips into the pouf next to her. Unable to speak she is peculiarly conscious of the woman sitting next to her and when Parkinson shifts that little bit it's so dangerously close that Hermione is convinced she would be able to hear the beating of her heart.
Her cheeks flush hot her throat so parched she swallows hard. She desperately wants to ask Parkinson is she sent the flowers if she received her reply but she can't find her voice. Her eyes wander anywhere but at Parkinson. Heat radiates down her spine to the tip of her toes.
A feather light stroke on her little pinky finger stills her breath. Casting a sly sideways glance, Parkinson is stone-faced staring ahead at the wispy rant of Professor Trawlaney, lowering her eyes its undeniable, Parkinson is stroking her finger so cautiously, every gentle stroke burning her skin sending a shot of tingles along the base of her spine up towards her neck. Intense feelings course through her veins. The act is so genuinely sweet with just the right touch of tentative softness that warmth rushes through her. Her chest swells with happiness along with warm moist excitement straight to between her legs.
Her mind momentarily blank on how to react, she sits with her heart beating in her throat for how long she does not know.
Scrapping her top teeth over her bottom lip, finally, she slowly moves her hand closer to Parkinson, she catches a small smile of relief cross Parkinson's lips as she breaths out deeply. She herself is unable to wipe the small smile from her own face as their pinky's interlock for the remainder of the lesson