Title:
If the Fault Fits
Author:
Hiko Mokushi
Rating:
PG
Word
Count:
415
Prompt:
Day 11 – Demons
Summary: You can do anything with support from those you love.
"I just can't do it like that."
She pressed her lips against his temple, her hand sliding coolly up his shoulder, before resting on the back of his neck. Massaging the pale skin with her fingertips, she took his other hand in hers. "Draco, you have to," she whispered, brow furrowed with worry. "You won't be able to leave it alone if you don't face it."
"Hermione," the blond young man whispered, turning his head to catch her lips. She breathed him in, like he was air, and when he drew back, she could still taste him on her lips. "I just can't. Do you understand? Like how you can't be in the same room with Ron without having someone else there."
Like how Harry couldn't look at Kreacher without seeing Dobby, or how Molly broke down every time she looked at the hole in George's ear, or how Percy couldn't stand to be alone for long periods of time.
Hermione lowered her head and pressed her forehead onto his shoulder.
"It's okay," she whispered, and closed her eyes. "I understand. We can just go home."
"I said I couldn't do it that way, as in alone—but I might be able to if you come with me. His hands rose from her hips and lifted her head; one curled at the junction of her neck and the other lifting her chin with a finger. He kissed her chastely. "Will you?"
The brown-haired witch smiled, eyes still shut as she basked in the moment—air cold around her, Draco warm. "Of course, my love." Her eyes opened as she held her hand out for him to take.
His fingers were like ice in her hand, but she gripped all the tighter. The ground crunch stiffly beneath their shoes.
Draco stilled and, still holding onto Hermione's hand, he dropped to he knees before the plain, white-marble headstone.
"Hello, Mother," he whispered, and Hermione felt her heart clench at his soft tones. "It's been a while. . ." He cleared his throat, shaking his head to correct himself. "I mean, I'm sorry I haven't visited you yet." He had a feeling she'd recognize his lie for some reason. "Nearly Christmastime, you should see the Manor; all done up in greens and reds—don't think Father ever let us put red in the décor at home before." His eyes closed against the tears. "I miss you."
Hermione bent and kissed his head. "I think she heard you, Draco."
