Uninvited

by Shoshanna33

Post war. Hermione is 23, young and carefree. At least in her spare time. She leads a double life, hiding her true self from her friends and colleagues at work. Deep inside, she's still struggling over the aftermath of the war, the loss of her parents, and a failed romance with Ron. She meets up with someone she didn't expect to meet, who is also fighting their own post war demons.

13. Chapter 13

Disclaimer: I own none of these characters. I just use them for own amusement and often make them do things JK Rowling would hate me for. Alas I thank her for letting me have my fun. I make no money off these stories. It's purely entertainment and no copyright infringement is intended.

Summary: Post war. Hermione is 23, young and carefree. At least in her spare time. She leads a double life, hiding her true self from her friends and colleagues at work. Deep inside, she's still struggling over the aftermath of the war, the loss of her parents, and a failed romance with Ron. She meets up with someone she didn't expect to meet, who is also fighting their own post war demons. None other than Draco Malfoy. What will happen between them? Can two enemies come together or will they still bear grudges over the past?

Authors note: This story is somewhat similar to another story I started but sadly lost the muse and did not finish. I wanted to tell a somewhat darker tale about loss and self destruction and finding oneself when the world as you once knew it no longer exists. I wanted a story about two people who are in pain and self loathing, coming together in mutual self destruction. I know it might sound terribly depressing, but I do like a happy ending. But I think these two characters need to work for it. So this story is what I really wanted to write. It won't leave my head, so I hope I can stop letting the romantic in me take over and do the story the proper justice. Rated M for a reason. No actual smut, but plenty of sexual situations. Mentions of rough sex and non consensual sex, but no actual non-con takes place. Bad language, drinking, smoking. It's a dark world, but I still believe in redemption. And that's what this story is ultimately about. Lyrics by Alanis Morissette, Three Days Grace, Poe, The Perfect Day, Lifehouse, Simple Plan, Kelly Clarkson and Richard Marx.

Is this a dream?
If it is
Please don't wake me from this high
I'd become comfortably numb
Until you opened up my eyes
To what it's like
When everything's right
I can't believe

You found me
When no one else was lookin'

How did you know just where I would be?
Yeah, you broke through
All of my confusion
The ups and the downs
And you still didn't leave
I guess that you saw what nobody could see

And I was hiding
'Til you came along
And showed me where I belong
You found me

Nearly a month went by and Draco and Hermione had settled fairly well into their life together. There was minimal drama and only a normal amount of bickering, which meant they were both actually quite happy. Hermione arrived home from work and didn't find Draco in his usual spot in front of the telly, so she set her stuff down and was about to go look for him. But she stopped short when she noticed a large aquarium sitting on the far wall and another small terrarium of some sort sitting by the window. She peered in at the fish and smiled because they were actually quite pretty and she'd never thought to have fish before. But when she went to investigate the other enclosure she screamed and jumped back, which startled Draco who was just coming down the hall.

"What's wrong?" he asked as he rushed out to see her.

"What in the bloody hell is this thing?" she asked pointing at the terrarium.

"Oh that. It's a scorpion. It's harmless. Oh and look at this. You turn off the lights in the room and then watch," he said as he turned off the lamps and awaited her excitement. "See? It bloody glows in the dark! It's fascinating, don't you think?"

"Okay. That's wonderful. It's a disgusting claw like insect that glows. Why is it in our home?"

"It's a pet. You don't like it?" he asked curiously.

"Draco, a cat or a dog is a pet. This is a fucking creature that belongs in hell or someplace else I don't wish to be."

"Oh come on. It's tiny. It's not a fucking acromantula. I thought it was cool."

"The fish are lovely, but this is just ugly and useless. You're not actually going to take it out and pet it are you? It'll sting you. And honestly Crookshanks will probably eat it. Did you think of that?"

"They said it rarely stings, and it's not poisonous. I asked. But no, I don't really want to touch it, I just want to stare at it for awhile. I'm not going to set it on the sofa next to us or anything. And how will Crookshanks get into the terrarium? He won't eat it."

She sighed. "Draco, this terrarium needs to be cleaned at some point. You'll have to take the thing out to do that which means you'll have to touch it. And then where will you put it?"

"I hadn't thought that far ahead. Shit. I have to actually pick this thing up with my bare hands?"

"Yes, you dimwit. Didn't they explain that to you at the shop in hell where you purchased it?"

"Not really. They had it all set up and I just bought the whole thing and took it home."

"What about the fish? Did you set that all up alone?" she wondered.

"No, they delivered that and set it up for me. But don't worry, I've got the fish covered. You pay someone and they come to your home and clean it and do whatever needs to be done. Think they'd clean this thing too?" he asked scratching his head.

"I seriously doubt it. Ugh. What possessed you to think I'd want this hideous thing in my house? What if it escapes and crawls in bed with us? I'll never sleep again! Besides you always fucking hated weird creatures and said that Care of Magical Creatures was the worst class they'd ever invented."

"Well this isn't a Blast Ended Skrewt, it's a little scorpion. And I never knew I'd have to touch it! I guess I just thought it didn't need to be cleaned."

"Didn't you realize that it's alive and thus will excrete some sort of shit that will begin to stink if it's not properly maintained?" she asked with a raised eyebrow.

"I should have thought this through better, I admit. But don't worry, I'll handle it. No worries. I'll think of something. There's always magic. I can just like magically hover the thing over the terrarium and clean it up and the poof it back inside. Problem solved," he smiled at her.

"I swear if that thing gets loose, I'm moving out. You can keep the place," she said throwing her hands in the air.

"Move out huh? Where will you go?"

"I'll move in with your parents. How about that? I'll just sneak in and find a room and it'll be winter before they even noticed I was living there since the place is so huge."

"Good luck with that plan. I give you about two hours before you realize that my parents are scarier than the scorpion ever will be."

"Okay, perhaps that's true. At least your father. But honestly, a scorpion?"

"I'm a guy. We like weird shit. It was either this or the six foot python. And I knew you'd have a conniption over that thing, so I got this instead. I'm calling it Scorpius. Which by the way, is an excellent boys name for our first son," he remarked.

"Scorpius? First of all, you named this awful thing? And second, you want to name our child after it? I don't think so," she scoffed.

"What's wrong with that name? I like it. What would you name our child? Bob? Something lame and dull and ordinary like that?"

"For your information I've not yet sat down and named our children yet. If you hadn't noticed I'm not pregnant and we've only been living together a month. But no, I'm not naming a child Bob."

"Do you at least like the fish? Can I be out of the dog house because they've very calming and pretty and colorful and will make you forget all about poor Scorpius sitting over here in the corner?" he wondered.

She sighed. "I do like the fish. They're lovely. But buying living things that we have to care for should probably be discussed before you just run off and do it. I wouldn't bring home a starving orphan without at least asking you first."

"Oh come on, an orphan is not the same as some fish and a scorpion. You don't put a child in a glass case and forget about it. Aren't you at least happy I passed on the snake?"

"Yes, incredibly happy. I hate snakes. I never wish to see another one if I can help it. And I would have forced you to take that back if you'd gotten it. But fine, you can keep your weird little pet. But I mean it, if it gets out and I find it, I'm squashing it immediately," she informed him.

"It won't get out. I promise. I don't think it's smart enough to figure out how to escape. Does it even have a brain?"

"Everything does, though I'd question the size of it. But I also question the size of yours sometimes too," she said with a smirk.

He made a face at her and flipped her off. "You're mean," he told her.

"Yeah, well you're just insanely impulsive sometimes. What possessed you to buy these things today? Nothing on the telly?"

"I was bored. I was just going for the fish at first, but then the scorpion sort of caught my eye. It was an impulse buy. Like a pack of chewing gum at the market. It wasn't planned, I just decided I needed it," he explained.

"Well next time buy something without a stinger and a crunchy shell of armor and claws. Why not buy a hamster?"

"A hamster? Your cat would gobble that son of a bitch up in five minutes if given the chance."

"True. Anyway. Obviously there's no need for me to ask how your day was since I've seen what did with your time."

"Well how was your day?"

"Perfectly fine until I got home. But that's okay. I'm ready to relax and get silly and eat tons of Greek food tonight," she said happily.

"Greek food? Are we going out?" he asked.

"Yes. Don't you remember? It's Harry's birthday. He invited us all to have dinner and drinks at that Greek place downtown. The one with the belly dancers? We just talked about it yesterday."

"Oh, right. I totally forgot. I guess I was too busy buying pets. I didn't get him a gift," Draco admitted.

"I've got the perfect one. Give him Scorpius. He'll love it," she teased.

"Yeah right. That's what Potter wants from me. He'd think I was attempting to kill him or something."

"Don't worry, I already bought him something. You just have to sign the card," she told him waving her hand in the air.

"So he won't expect something from me personally right? A joint gift is acceptable?"

"Yes, I mean we are a couple and we live together, it's only natural we'd bring one gift. Unless he was like your best friend then he'd probably expect something personal. But you're covered. The card is in my purse and I'm just going to change, okay?" she said as she headed off down the hall.

Draco fished in her purse and pulled out the card and he looked it over. It was a bit mushy and sentimental and he felt odd signing his name to it. It was all about the love between friends and sharing special moments together and it didn't exactly describe their relationship in the slightest. But he just shrugged and found a pen to write with.

'Dear Harry, obviously I did not pick out this card. We have no fond memories of each other. Nor are we 'special friends'. But just so you know, I hope your birthday is happy anyway. Also, thanks for not letting me die in that fire that one time. It's a little belated, but still, thanks. Oh and sorry I kissed you that one time at the bar. I don't remember doing it, but I was told you enjoyed it thoroughly and are considering ditching Ginny and running away with me now. Sorry to break your heart, but I don't swing that way. Joking. Obviously. This is me trying to be funny and probably failing miserably. Truth is, I don't actually know you at all and I'm not sure what to say here. And I know you don't care for me much. But maybe someday that will change? Stranger things, and all that. Anyway, happy birthday. Sincerely, Draco.'

He looked over what he'd written and sighed. It was stupid. It sucked. He should have just kept it simple but he wanted to say something genuine and nice. But instead he rambled on like a moron. Too late now. He just closed it up and shoved it back in the envelope and then went to the bedroom to change his clothes too. They got themselves ready and Hermione opened the card to sign it herself and she read what Draco wrote and started giggling.

"What's so funny?" he asked.

"This," she said holding out the card. "Were you high when you wrote this? I mean it would explain why you bought a scorpion today, that's for sure."

"No I wasn't high. Is it too stupid? I was trying to be nice and also funny. It's horrible right? I should scribble it all out," he said shaking his head.

"No, no. It's perfect. He'll love it. And you were nice and funny. It's just sometimes you surprise me. I expected you to simply write your name and not a soliloquy."

"Well I wanted to say something personal. After all, I didn't buy the gift. I don't even know what it is. I figured I should at least make an attempt to be friendly or something," he shrugged.

"You did fine. I'm sorry I laughed. And by the way, we bought him a shirt."

"A shirt? That's it? That's kind of anti-climatic."

"What would you have bought him? A car?"

"No. I have no clue. I barely know him," he shrugged.

"He'll like the shirt. Trust me. There was a time when I swear he only owned two shirts. One for summer and one for winter. And they looked almost the same. He's a terrible clothes shopper. Luckily Ginny helps him now."

"Should I give him some money? People always like money. It can't hurt right?" he wondered.

"It's not necessary. Trust me. Just buy him a few drinks. He'll be happy," she assured him.

"Alright. If you say so. Oh, and please do not let me get hammered enough to kiss him again. I beg it of you."

"I promise. I'll cut you off if you start to act insane again," she smiled.

"Okay. Let's go then."

They set off for the restaurant and headed inside once they got there. Neither of them had ever been there before, but it was well known as a fun place in the city to dine and have drinks. They put on a belly dancing show every evening and made the men come dance with them. It was supposedly very entertaining and fun and that's why Ginny picked the place as the spot to gather. There was Greek music playing and people walking around in togas serving drinks and food. They spotted the table almost immediately because it was right in front of the belly dancing stage and Ron's red hair was impossible to miss.

"Wait. You didn't tell me the Weasel was coming," Draco complained as they stopped short.

"Well duh, he's Harry's best friend. I figured you'd assume he'd be here," she informed him.

"But I can't stand him. And honestly he's always hated me more than anyone. I think he hated me more than you guys did."

"I thought you shared a civil conversation with him at his wedding? You said he wasn't so bad."

"I kind of glossed it up a bit. He basically told me he hated my guts and that he and Harry would come kill me if I hurt you. We didn't exactly hug and become pals. The only reason he didn't try to strangle me was because he didn't want to ruin his wedding."

"Great. I thought he was decent to you! You made it sound like he was."

"I didn't want to upset you."

She sighed. "Well just ignore him. If you don't talk to him, maybe he won't talk to you?"

"Ugh, this is gonna suck. I never thought I'd say this, but I actually like his sister. But him? I wish he'd fall into a volcano or something."

"Just keep quiet and do not verbalize that fantasy okay? No one's falling into a volcano."

She took Draco's arm and dragged him to the table and when they approached Ron's smile faded quickly. He stared Draco down and Draco stared right back. But thankfully neither said a word. At least not yet.

"You guys made it!" Ginny exclaimed as she jumped up and hugged both of them, which threw Draco off a bit.

"Yes, we're here. Are we late? You guys already have drinks and appetizers," Hermione noted.

"No, we got here early. Sit down!" Ginny told them happily.

The only open seats were next to Ron's wife, Jennifer, and Ron himself. Hermione sat next to her and Draco took the end so as to be as far from Ron as possible.

"Happy birthday, Harry," Hermione said as she reached across the table and patted his hand.

"Yeah, happy birthday," Draco said politely.

"Thanks guys. I'm glad you came," he smiled at them.

"Yeah, we're all tickled pink now that Malfoy's here," Ron said snidely.

"Ron, shut it. We already had this conversation," Harry told him giving him a stern look.

"Whatever," Ron said, taking a large sip of his drink.

"Don't mind him. He's a bit cross that I invited you," Harry said to Draco.

"Yeah, got that message. Did he expect I wouldn't come with Hermione?"

"He sort of thinks you should be excluded from gatherings, like say his wedding. He's not quite over that. Or the fact that he saw the album of photos from our night on the town."

Draco laughed slightly and shook his head. "The Weasel thinks I'm stealing his people, right? I knew it. I know how his tiny mind works. But fuck that. I'm not leaving."

"Honey, no one is asking you to leave. Harry's just explaining," Hermione told him.

"Yeah, I know. But this is so juvenile. Potter, your friend needs to grow up and get over it. Whatever I did to him or said to him is ancient fucking history. How long can a person hold a grudge? Forever?"

"Possibly. But just don't look at him. Or speak to him. It should be fine," Harry assured him.

"Why don't I put up a magical barrier between us so he can't see me? Would that help?"

"Draco, let's just order some drinks and try some of this food. It looks wonderful," Hermione urged him.

"Fine. Where's a waitress?"

They flagged one over and she took their drink order and returned quickly. Draco downed his immediately and asked for another. Hermione let out a deep breath.

"Oh God, he's going to get hammered again," she muttered under her breath.

"So, I heard a story that you actually got on a stage and sung a song to a crowd of people. Is that actually true?" Ron asked Draco, who was trying very hard not to look Ron's way.

"You saw the pictures, right? You know I did," Draco said, never looking up from the table.

"I also heard you sucked. Made a right ass of yourself. I'm sorry I missed it."

"Yeah, we all wished you were there ruining our fun," Draco said giving him a glare.

"I still don't get why I wasn't invited that night," Ron grumbled.

"I already told you. It was just supposed to be for me and Hermione to hang out. Do I have to always include you in everything? We're not bloody Siamese twins," Harry told Ron in a snippy tone.

"We used to be! Well not really, but you get my drift. The point is, I don't want this wanker here. If you cared about my feelings, you would make him go," Ron shot back.

"Look Weasel, is this your bloody birthday party? No. It's Harry's. And your sister invited me! I'm sorry I crashed your wedding, but I stayed out of your way. And if you'd stop acting like a six year old, maybe we could all just get along for a night? No one else here has a problem with me, do they?" Draco asked as he scanned the table. No one said a word. "See? Everyone else is a fucking adult. Grow up already!"

Harry stood up and put his arms out. "Enough. Seriously. Both of you shut it. This is my party and I can invite who I want. Draco's right. Sorry Ron, but he's actually right. This isn't about your feelings. It's about mine. And I want him here," Harry said pointedly.

"You actually want him here? My God, has everyone lost it? Am I the only person who remembers the hell this bastard put us all through? Is everyone else here very brain damaged?" Ron asked heatedly.

"Ronald Weasley, just shut your damn pie hole for once in your bloody life. I may not be your girlfriend anymore, but you will listen to me. Draco is my boyfriend. He's part of my life. All of you are. If Harry and Ginny can actually find it in themselves to like Draco, even a little bit, then why can't you even try? Why? Why are you such an impossible wanker?" Hermione stood up and yelled at him.

Ron just looked at her and said nothing at first. And then he looked at his wife who was just sitting there holding her head in her hands, looking like she wanted to disappear. Ron poked her arm.

"Jen, are you just gonna sit there and let everyone yell at me? You know how I feel. Why aren't you standing up for me?" he asked his wife desperately.

She turned and looked at him. "Ron, you know I love you. But I don't even know this Draco person. I don't hate him. I don't care one way or the other. And honestly I'd like to actually speak to him at least once before I decide I hate him. I won't do it just because you tell me to. And truthfully, you're embarrassing me. And it looks like you're embarrassing everyone else, especially yourself. So please, just sit there and eat. It's what you do best," Jen told him as she picked up her drink and tossed it back.

Draco started chuckling and held his hand over his mouth to try and conceal the laughter, but he couldn't stop. "Well, well, Mrs. Weasley finally speaks. And she's got stones. I'm impressed. Good on you, Jen. You tell him like it is. I like you."

Ron just stood up and left the table and stormed outside. Everyone looked at one another but no one knew what to do or say. It was incredibly awkward.

"Should you go after him?" Hermione asked Jen.

"Me? No, I rather think he's pissed at me right now," she shook her head. "Harry should go."

"Me? Why? He doesn't listen to me."

"But you're his best friend."

"Yeah, and you're his wife."

"Make Ginny do it," Jen offered.

"Why me?"

"You're his sister. Perhaps he'll listen to you?"

"Ron never listens to me," Ginny informed them.

"Does he listen to anyone?" Hermione asked, no one in particular.

Soon all eyes fixed on Draco and he looked up at them.

"What? Don't even dare suggest it be me who goes out there after him. I'm the one person here he might actually murder. Do you think he'd listen to me?" Draco shook his head furiously.

"So what, we just leave him standing outside sulking?" Harry asked.

"Oh, he'll get it out of his system and come back. He always does. This is Ron's thing. He gets pissed and then he runs off and expects someone to follow him. And when you don't, he gives up and comes back. Am I right, Hermione? You lived with him before I did, so you know him," Jen explained.

"She is sort of right. He does love to storm off angrily. But he always comes back," Hermione agreed.

"Okay, this is ridiculous. This is Harry's fucking birthday party and we're all sitting here fretting over Ron and his stupid feelings. I'm putting an end to this right now," Draco said as he stood up from the table.

"Wait! Are you leaving too?" Hermione asked.

"No. I'm going out there and I'm going to force that overgrown child to stop throwing a tantrum and get back in here."

"How are you going to do that?" Hermione wondered.

"Just trust me. I know what he needs."

"What? A kick in the head? Don't hurt him," Hermione pleaded.

"I'm not touching him. Just everyone relax and order more drinks. Order two for me. We'll be back," Draco informed them as he turned and marched out of the restaurant.

He found Ron sulking on the side of the building, kicking rocks with his shoes and muttering under his breath. Draco sighed and shook his head and walked over to him.

"Weasel."

"What the fuck do you want? Go away. It's obvious who's not wanted in there and it isn't you. It's me. You fucked up everything for me. I hope you're happy!"

"I am rather happy, thanks for asking. Look, let's just get this over with shall we?" Draco said plainly.

"Get what over with?"

Draco held out his arms and stood in front of Ron. "Go ahead. Hit me. Give it your best shot. No wands, just pure manly aggression. Get it out of your system. You know you want to. Just fucking hit me and get over it. Go on!"

"You want me to hit you?"

"Yes. Just go for it. It'll make you feel better."

Ron stood there for a moment and wondered if it was a trick or something, but Draco didn't budge. He just stood there waiting, arms out, completely unarmed. Ron smirked a little and then he just hauled back and punched Draco straight in the face as hard as he could. Draco cried out and grabbed his nose and Ron cried out and held his hand to his chest.

They both shouted out, "Bloody hell!" at the same time.

"Motherfucker, I think I broke my hand!" Ron complained as he shook it out and massaged it with his other hand.

"Your hand? What about my fucking face? Who taught you how to punch? Hermione? God damn it, that hurt!" Draco complained as he kept holding his nose and checking for blood on his hands.

"That was fucking awesome," Ron started laughing despite the pain.

"Yeah? Glad you enjoyed it. Am I bleeding?" he asked showing Ron his face.

"Kind of. I really got your nose good, Malfoy."

"No shit. Fuck! I know I asked for it, but I didn't realize how fucking hard you'd hit me."

"Well I violently dislike you," Ron shrugged.

"Yeah, my nose got the message. But do you feel better now?" Draco wondered.

"A little. I mean, that was brilliant. But I still don't want to be your friend."

"I didn't expect you would. But seriously, Weasley, why do you hate me so fucking much huh? I know I was a dickhead in school and I realize I was sort of quasi evil for awhile, but that was mostly an act! You know that. And lately I've done nothing except make Hermione incredibly happy. And your sister and Harry had a fucking blast with me when we went out. I've stayed out of your way. I didn't fuck up your wedding. I don't get it. Why continue to despise me so passionately? Everyone else thinks you're an idiot for holding this grudge so firmly," Draco told him seriously.

"You want to know why I hate you so much right now? It's because no one else does anymore. And Hermione was fucking miserable as shit with me and you waltzed in and swept her off her feet and now she's all happy and normal again. And Harry? You fucking kissed him! I saw the picture. And don't get me started on Ginny. She was the only one truly on my side until that supposedly wonderful evening and now she can't stop talking about how fucking funny you are. And Jen? My wife? She told me she thought you were handsome! At my own bloody wedding! It's like everyone suddenly loves you and now I'm the asshole!"

"Look, I can't help any of those things you just said. But maybe, just maybe, you could give me a tiny sliver of a chance and perhaps you'd realize that the reason everyone likes me is because I'm not what you remember. I'm different. I'm not a fucked up little brat anymore. And yes, I did some bad things, but I never once actually tried to hurt any of you. I never had the guts. All I had were my stupid insults. And if you can't get over that, then you need some therapy. It's been years, Weasley. Years! I'm not that person anymore. I'm just not. If you actually spent more than five seconds speaking to me like a real person, you might realize that."

Draco turned around and went to go back inside and then he looked back at Ron. "Are you coming back in or not? Everyone's waiting on us."

"They actually want me back in there?" Ron wondered quietly.

"Yes, you half wit. They're your bloody friends and your family and your wife. But that doesn't mean I don't belong here too. I'm gonna marry Hermione someday, so might as well just get used to me. And stop being an ass. This night isn't about you and me, it's for Harry. And right now, I'm being a better friend to him than you are. You gonna let that happen? You want me to replace you? Cause I can. Bet you never kissed him," Draco smirked at him.

"Ugh, you're warped. But fine. I get it. You're right. I'm being a selfish dick."

"Yeah, you really are."

"Are you seriously gonna marry Hermione?"

Draco sighed and shrugged. "That's the master plan. I'm not saying it'll be next week or anything, but yes. I'm in love with her. And if you hear my father tell it, I always have been. But personally I think he's nuts."

"You got that part right. He is nuts. And a criminal."

"Yeah, yeah. I know. But you helped set him free, remember?"

"Don't remind me."

"You coming back in?"

"Yeah."

Draco just nodded and turned and opened the door and Ron followed behind him. Hermione jumped up when she saw Draco's face.

"Oh my God, what the hell happened to your face?" she asked grabbing a napkin and wiping his nose, but the blood was already dried.

"It's nothing. Just a spot of violence before dinner. It needed to happen. I'm fine."

"Ron, you hit him? Are you mad?" Hermione scolded him.

"Relax, love. I told him to. He needed to do it. He's been dying to do it for about twelve years now, I suspect. So I let him have a go. I thought you hit hard, but he actually made me bleed. And oh, his hand might be broken too."

"Is this party ruined now? Should we just give up and go home?" Ginny asked with a disappointed look.

"No Gin, it's fine. We're all good now. And Harry, I'm sorry for being an ass. This is your party and I've got no right to tell you who to invite. Let's just forget it all and have fun. It's a party right? Everyone drink up!" Ron said as he picked up his glass and downed it.

"I'll be right back," Draco told Hermione.

"Where are you going now?"

"The bathroom. My face is a mess, I can tell. I need to wash up. I'll be right back."

He walked away and Hermione turned to Harry.

"Why did Draco let Ron punch him in the face? Has he got a death wish?" Harry wondered.

"No, he's just a little unconventional, that's all. But it worked. Ron came back and apologized. I guess Draco knew what to do after all."

"I guess so. I thought I talked to Ron enough and got through to him, but he's so difficult sometimes. Plus, I think he's jealous."

"Jealous?"

"Yeah. He sort of took issue with me actually enjoying an evening with Draco present. He felt left out. But seriously, we're not twelve anymore. I'm engaged, he's married, you're living with Draco. Life isn't the same anymore. I don't think he wants to accept that the three of us aren't all joined at the hip anymore."

"But we're all so different now. Our lives changed.. He couldn't expect the three of us to move in together and be single all our lives and just run around hunting Horcruxes forever. That chapter in our story ended long ago, and I don't want to go back. I want to go forward."

"I know. Just maybe give Ron more time."

"Well the night has barely started so who knows what'll happen? Hopefully no more in fighting or insults."

"Fingers crossed."

Draco returned to the table and he no longer had blood all over his face and looked much more presentable. He took a seat and looked at Hermione and Harry who seemed thick as thieves when he arrived.

"So, what are you guys whispering about? Me or the Weasel?" he wondered.

"Truthfully, Ron. I'm sorry he gave you shit. You didn't need to goad him into punching you, though. That was unnecessary," Harry told him.

"No, it was necessary. Believe me. He's been itching to do it. Maybe you have been too? But that'll have to wait for another night, because my face hurts already."

"I don't want to punch you."

"You don't? I mean, the rest of your friends had that honor at some point, so why not you?" Draco asked curiously.

Harry shrugged. "I don't know. I'm not mad at you anymore. The urge is gone. But don't worry, I'm sure it might come back eventually. So keep the offer open," Harry smirked.

"Okay, rain check then. But for now, I want to drink these drinks and actually eat something. Is the food still good or has it gone cold?"

"It's still good. Plus, there's still the actual dinner. These were just some appetizers."

Draco just nodded and helped himself to some of the food and took a big gulp of one of his drinks.

"You know, it was kind of crazy to let Ron punch you in the face," Hermione told him.

He sighed. "No one else was willing to go after the nitwit. Someone had to do something. And let's face it, it was me he had a problem with. Much as it pained me, it really needed to be me who went after him."

"Did he just hit you and then suddenly decided to come back inside?"

"No, we talked. Well, I did most of the talking and he just scowled at me, but eventually I made my point. Turns out he does have a little sense in that thick head of his. You just have to be blunt and to the bloody point. I think everyone else is so worried about his fucking feelings they just coddle him and that makes him act like he's entitled to special treatment. But the truth is, he just needs to get over himself and realize that school is over. We're all grown up now. And I haven't done a single thing to him in like six bloody years. Plus, I never actually did anything to him in the first place. So I made fun of him? Big fucking deal. You lot made fun of me too, but you don't see me weeping in my drink over it."

"Well whatever you said, he seems happy now. And also a getting a bit drunk. Remember, you told me to cut you off and you've already three drinks. Slow down," Hermione reminded him.

"I'm fine. Promise. This fourth drink is to numb the pain my face. It's medicine. But if I get drunk enough to start offering up hugs and kisses to the Weasel, just knock me out and drag me home because then it'll be clear I've had too much," he chuckled slightly as he took another sip of drink.

The rest of the evening, everyone ordered food and many more drinks, and no one got into anymore fights. Ron was still not excited to share a party with Draco, but he'd calmed down. He could be a bigger man. Because it was obvious to him that he was the only one left who actually held a grudge. He caught Harry and Draco laughing hysterically and patting each other on the back and it had stung a bit. He was all the way across the room watching his best friend have the time of his life with someone he hated. But what could he honestly do about it? If he acted like a spoiled child, Harry would just move farther away from him and soon he'd never be invited out again. So he walked over there with his drink and stood to face them.

"So what's so fucking hysterical? You two lot look like you're about to piss yourselves," Ron wondered curiously.

Harry looked up at him and tried to stop laughing. "Oh it was nothing. Draco was just telling me how he bought a new pet today and Hermione almost threw him out of their flat. He was doing this impression of the way she gets. You know how she gets? Well, it was funny. Maybe you had to be there," Harry shrugged since Ron didn't laugh along.

"Yeah, I know how she gets. Do you remember the time she got pissed at me for something, I don't even remember what, but she threw my bloody armchair out the front door and left it on the curb. And some homeless bloke tried to take it," Ron told them.

"Oh yeah, that was funny. God, you always pissed her off. She hated that chair," Harry reminded him.

"If it's any consolation, she hates my chair too. But so far she's not thrown it onto the street yet," Draco told him.

"She's kind of a handful, don't you think? I mean, I love her to bits, but sometimes I just wanted to chop my own head off so I wouldn't hear her harping at me at all the time," Ron lamented.

"But isn't that part of her charm? I rather enjoy her tirades. I always have, truth be told. She's a feisty bird," Draco laughed.

"Yeah, she is," Ron said, glancing over to where she was sitting with Ginny and Jen across the table and giggling to themselves. "She's much more suited to you than me, I think."

"What? You actually think so?" Draco was surprised.

Ron shrugged. "I dunno. Look at her. She's all giggles and shits now. I don't even remember her smiling when we were together."

"Well you've got a lovely wife now. And she seems a bit feisty herself. Not afraid to put you in your place," Draco quipped.

"Yeah, Jen's great. I was lucky to find her. Well, I guess I'll just go back to my seat and leave you two with your stories," Ron said somewhat dejectedly.

"Wait. Don't go. Sit with us," Harry urged him. "You never even heard what this so-called pet was that Draco bought. It's insane."

Ron stopped walking and grabbed up a chair and sat down between them. "Alright. So what did you buy? A fucking dragon or something?"

"Hardly. It was a little scorpion. And she acted like I'd purchased a hell beast. It's in a glass cage! It can't get out," Draco informed him.

"A scorpion? What sort of pet is that? Most people would call an exterminator if they saw one in their flat."

"Am I the only one fascinated by weird things? It glows in the dark under a special light. It glows! How is that not cool?" Draco said defensively.

"Yeah, but what do you do with it? Set it on your shoulder? Put a leash on it?" Harry wondered.

"No, it just sits there looking all menacing and scary. Guarding the castle, if you will."

"I seem to recall you having a heart attack at every creature Hagrid ever showed us in class. Not to mention the panic attack you had in the Forbidden Forest, so worried something would eat you. And yet you buy a horrid insect as a pet?" Harry prodded him.

"Why does everyone bring up my hatred of Magical Creatures class? This isn't magical or huge or deadly. It fits in your bloody hand. Not that I'm touching it. I just wanted to stare at it. No one understands me," Draco sighed.

"You got that right. You're completely bizarre," Ron chuckled as he took another drink.

"So my pet is bizarre, yet you used to sleep with a rat. That's disgusting. Rats are filthy animals that live in sewers and eat babies while they sleep. Not to mention your rat was really a bloody murderer so you essentially cuddled a fat ugly old man every night for years and had no clue," Draco started laughing again.

"Hey, a rat isn't filthy! He was cool. Sort of. I don't know. I didn't choose the pet, it was handed down to me. And I had no idea he was a murderer! I thought it was a stupid rat," Ron defended himself.

"Yeah, but still. A rat isn't even on the list of animals you're allowed to bring to school. I can't believe they didn't feed it to Hagrid's ugly old mutt when you weren't looking."

"Oh remember when you wouldn't speak to Hermione for like a month because you were convinced Crookshanks ate your rat?" Harry reminded Ron.

"Yes, I remember. I was mad! I hated that ugly cat."

"Crookshanks? I rather love that old thing. Yes, it's ugly, but he's a commanding presence. He knows he's special and deserves to be pampered. That cat loves me. I spoil it senseless," Draco informed them.

"Of course you would. Taking after your parents, I see. Spoiling someone rotten. I bet Crookshanks is now an elitist snob just like you used to be," Ron remarked.

Draco laughed and shook his head. "It's a cat, not a child. And so what if I spoil it? He was already an elitist snob when I met him. I had to work to gain his favor. Pity you obviously never tried, but that doesn't surprise me."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Ron wondered with irritation.

"Nothing, it's just you don't try very hard at giving things and people chances. Is it the ginger in you that makes you so stubborn? Ginny isn't near as bad. Your sister actually hugged me this evening. Perhaps you should take some lessons from her?" Draco suggested.

"You want me to hug you?"

"Oh fuck no. Let's not get carried away. I just meant maybe you'd do well to give me a shot."

"I am. I'm sitting here talking to you, aren't I? And you're sitting there insulting my rat."

"I'm joking around! Do any of you lot not understand sarcasm or biting wit? Don't take me so bloody seriously. God knows I don't. Harry, was Ron always this touchy? Didn't you two ever rib each other or poke fun?"

"Not exactly. Maybe a little. But we were always too busy trying not to die to have much time for poking fun at each other. Life was always too dire," Harry admitted.

"Well that's a pity. Did either of you ever enjoy yourselves in school at all?"

"Sure we did. Loads of fun. But there was always sort of a dark cloud hanging over me," Harry sighed.

"Well that dark cloud is gone now. Loosen up. And stop taking me so seriously. I don't mean most of what I say," Draco told them.

"Then why say it?" Ron wondered.

"I don't know. My brain and my mouth work independently of each other sometimes. Perhaps in school I lived to torment you lot and meant to upset you. But now? I'm just having fun. Or else I'm just calling it like I see it. I don't believe people should be handled with kid gloves. That just allows people to lie to themselves and never own up to their own shortcomings."

"Right, cause you're so excellent at owning up to your shortcomings," Ron said sarcastically.

"I am! Go ahead and point out all my faults. I dare you. I promise you I already know them all, and probably a lot more than even you know. But if you think there's something I've not owned up to, then hit me with it. Not literally this time though. I don't want to be punched again," he told them.

"Fine, I'll go first," Harry said with confidence. "You're arrogant and pompous and snobby."

"Wait, arrogant and pompous mean basically the same thing," Draco pointed out.

"Okay, well it's a big one so it needed two words."

"Fair enough. Keep going."

"Alright you're a git. And you're a man whore," Ron told him.

"Ah, correction. I was a man whore. I'm not any longer. I've given that life up," Draco defended himself.

"You're insensitive and mean spirited," Harry told him.

"Sometimes, yes. But not all the time!" Draco assured him.

"I got one. You're a coward," Ron stated smugly.

"Now I take issue with that statement. I'm not a coward. Perhaps I'm not Harry bloody Potter, hero to the land, but I'm no coward," Draco said seriously, actually taking offense this time.

"How's that? I seem to remember you standing there at the end of it all with us and then you just fucking ran away to Mummy and Daddy. Literally running and not looking back. Didn't even have the stones to take a side. You could have stayed with us, proved you were good. But no, you ran," Ron told him.

"So that makes me a coward eh? I didn't take a side because the only side I was ever on was my own. It was about saving my own ass and that of my parents. But do you even have half a tiny clue the shit I had to face and carry out in order to just stay alive? Does a coward allow this hideous mark to be burned into their flesh, while pretending to be honored and not in blinding torment from the pain? Does a coward attempt to kill the most powerful wizard alive, aside from Voldemort himself, and be called a coward? I thought I was certain to die and yet I just kept following my orders so my parents would be safe. I stood up there on that tower ready to do something I knew would destroy my very soul, and yet I faced it down. That's not a coward," he told them both.

"Yeah, but you didn't kill anyone. You cried. You freaked out. You froze. I watched it all happen," Harry reminded him.

"And your point is? That makes me a coward? I think it makes me fucking human being and a decent person who wasn't capable of actually killing anyone. Would I be a braver man in your eyes had I just blasted Dumbledore off the tower and ran off laughing with my crazy aunt who was egging me on?" Draco wondered.

Ron and Harry were both silent for a moment and bowed their heads. Finally Harry looked up.

"No, you're right. It wasn't cowardly," Harry admitted.

"But you still tried to kill him. The poison that I got? The cursed necklace that poor Katie got blasted with? What about that shit?" Ron wondered.

Draco sighed. "Okay, I have no defense for either of those actions. I really don't. All I can say is that I was following orders under extreme duress. And no one died, did they? Small favors, at least."

"What if me and Katie did die? What would you feel then?" Ron asked challengingly.

"Do you think I would have been happy? Hardly. I didn't want to kill you, Ron. And I didn't even know Katie at all. You want the truth? If you lot had died or I'd actually murdered Dumbledore, I probably would have thrown myself off the tower right after him. Happy now? That's what I was going to do."

"What? You were going to kill yourself?" Harry was shocked.

"Yes. If I actually went through with it, if I succeeded, I was prepared to jump. I wouldn't have been able to live with myself if I didn't. And that, perhaps, makes me a coward. But the rest of it? No, I'm not a coward."

Ron and Harry were both rendered mute at this declaration. It was suddenly serious and the air was thick around them. Draco finally had enough of the awkward silence and he stood up.

"I'm gonna go outside for a minute. Excuse me," he said quietly as he walked towards the door.

"I was not expecting that," Ron muttered quietly.

"Me neither. Do you suppose he was serious? He really would have jumped?" Harry wondered.

"He looked serious. God, can you imagine? I mean, I hate the bugger, but killing himself like that?"

"I think he's a bit more emotional and human than we ever gave him credit for. I mean, remember when I told you I found him crying in the bathroom? I actually sort of felt sorry for him at least until he tried to crucio me."

"Yeah, I dunno. He's probably just talking. He can't be serious," Ron shook his head.

Hermione noticed that Draco went outside so she excused herself and went out after him. She found him standing against a lamp post with a cigarette in his hand. She walked over to him.

"Smoking again? I thought we both said we'd quit?" she asked curiously.

"Caught me. I had a secret stash for emergencies. Want one?" he offered the pack to her.

"Oh sure. Why not?" she said with a devious little grin, as she took it and he lit it for her. "So why are you hiding out here smoking? Did something happen?"

He shrugged. "I don't know. Sort of. It's just your friends. They kind of got to me."

"What did they say? Something rude?"

"Nah, not really. We were just sort of messing around and I was letting them get their licks in, just for kicks. But then I kinda said some shit I wished I'd just kept to myself," he sighed.

"What kind of shit? Something mean?"

"No, nothing like that. Just personal bullshit. About me. And my life. They didn't really need to know. They aren't really my friends, so they have no business knowing."

"What sort of personal bullshit? Is it something I don't know about?" she wondered curiously.

"Kind of. I mean, you know I don't like talking about the past. The things I did, or what I tried to do. It's upsetting. But then I just blurted this stupid shit out to Harry and Ron and now I feel exposed and foolish. And I'm not even really drunk so I have no excuse," he said shaking his head.

"Will you tell me what it was? I mean, if they know now and I don't know, shouldn't I know?" she asked quietly.

"Love, you'll think less of me. It's not important anyhow because it was just a stupid plan I had, and hearing it would only upset you. Just forget it, okay?"

"Draco, you tell me all kinds of private things. Why won't you tell me this? You had a stupid plan? A plan for what?" she asked imploringly.

Draco dropped his cigarette and crushed it out. And then he just stared at his feet and said nothing for a moment. Then he looked up at her.

"You'll think I'm crazy. And not in the silly way you usually think it. I had dark plans. Very dark. Are you sure you actually want to know?" he asked softly.

"Dark plans? Were you going to do something evil?"

"I was going to kill myself, okay? I was going to jump off the Astronomy tower that night. But I didn't. I didn't have to. So it's pointless to even mention it," he said irritated with himself.

"Kill yourself? Do you mean that?" she asked, reaching out to touch his arm.

"Yes. If I had to murder Dumbledore, if I was forced to and no one rescued me, I didn't want to walk away from it. I wanted to jump. Just be done with it. I figured if I did what I was told, my parents would live. But I, however, would have been done with it. How would I ever have lived with myself knowing I murdered a human being? That's not something I have in me. Not even that night in the alley. I mean, yes, I wanted to hurt that man a lot, but I stopped when you said I might kill him. I had to stop."

She stomped out her cigarette and went over and put her arms around his waist and pulled him towards her. She just held him tightly and rubbed her hands soothingly over his back.

"It's okay, Draco. I understand. And I don't think you're crazy. I think we've all had very dark thoughts sometimes, especially when faced with hard choices like we had to make when we were only kids. I seriously doubt Harry or Ron thinks badly of you for this. It might actually show them just how human you really are," she whispered as she held him close.

"The point was, they're not in my zone. You're in my zone. No one else is. Draco Malfoy doesn't share his feelings with just anyone, and certainly not two people who don't even really like me," he said insistently.

She looked up at him and smoothed his hair out of his eyes. "I know you don't like to share, but maybe it's better you did? I mean, Harry has seen your fun side, which he never saw before. And he liked it. But no one is a total goofball all the time. People have feelings and substance. Perhaps he needed to see that part too?"

"Well did Ron need to see it? I don't think so. I think that's why I'm so upset. He's not someone I'd ever share a secret with. Never."

"I know you two have serious issues, but maybe he'll lighten up now? I saw you three talking and it seemed to be okay."

"It was. I guess anyway. But I just feel like I gave them ammunition to hurt me. And maybe Harry wouldn't use it, but I don't trust Weasley. I just don't. I'm not sure I ever will."

"He won't use it against you," she assured him.

"How do you know?"

"Because he just won't. I know him. Yes, he's stubborn and annoying and at times downright aggravating as hell, but he's not a bad person."

"If you say so."

"Come on, just shake it off. If you just let it go, I doubt they'll ever say a word about it again. You have to trust me on that because I know them better than you. Just go back in and let's have fun. We still have presents and the belly dancing show is starting soon. You don't want to miss that, right?" she said, trying to make him smile.

"Well I never can resist a pretty girl in a skimpy outfit jiggling around," he smirked.

She slapped his chest playfully. "Just don't enjoy them too much. Remember I'm right there."

"Don't worry, I promise not to run off with a belly dancer. But if I happen to chat one up and she really digs my scorpion, I might have to ditch you," he said with a shrug.

"Liar! You'd never ditch me."

He kissed her and smiled. "Nope, I never would. Thanks for listening to me mope. And I really do hope you don't think of me weird knowing the ideas I had back then."

"I don't think you're weird for that. Promise. No judgments from me. I'm just glad it didn't work out that way. Come on, back inside. It's a party, so smile."

He smiled a little and then he took her hand and followed her back inside. Everyone had been waiting on them to open the gifts, but Harry and Ron didn't say anything to Draco. They just kept it light and pretended nothing happened. Harry got to work opening his gifts. When he got to the one Hermione and Draco brought, he opened the card first. He read it silently and started laughing almost instantly. He looked at Draco.

"Lovely sentiment, thank you. Were you drunk when you wrote it?" Harry wondered with a grin.

"No. God, Hermione thought I was high and you think I was drunk. Can't a bloke just write some shit and not be out of his mind?" Draco laughed shaking his head.

"Well, it's great. And thank you too, Hermione. The card was very sweet."

He then opened the gift and seemed to really like the shirt, but Draco wasn't all that impressed with it. "I didn't buy that, she did. I wanted to give you money, but she stopped me," Draco informed him.

"You stopped him from giving me money? Are you nuts? You should have let him do it!" Harry joked.

"What? I thought the shirt was nice! You wanted more?" Hermione asked.

"Love, everyone always wants more than a shirt, don't they?"

"No, I love the shirt. I'm joking! But still, I wouldn't have thrown the money back either," Harry smiled.

Draco reached into his wallet and pulled out a hundred pound note and threw it at Harry. "Here. Go buy something stupid with it."

"Like what? A scorpion?"

"Oh God, he told you about that?" Hermione groaned.

"Yeah, and he said you were overcome with joy about it."

"Hardly!"

"A scorpion? Yuck! Harry is not buying that," Ginny made a face.

"I used to have a chameleon. It was quite cute. And it changed colors. It was exciting," Jen piped up.

"I could handle that. It doesn't have a stinger at least," Hermione told her.

Harry finished up the gifts and thanked everyone and personally went around to hug everyone. When he got to Draco he stopped for a moment then he just sighed and gave him a quick man hug and pulled back fast.

"No kissing," he reminded Draco.

"Don't worry, you don't look quite as handsome tonight as you did before. I think I can control myself," Draco smirked with a laugh.

Soon after, the belly dancers took the stage and everyone stopped to watch the show. Then they started grabbing random men from the crowd and pulling them on stage. No one at their table wanted to do this, but Ginny stood up and pointed at Harry and jumped up and down to get their attention.

"Ginny, stop!" Harry pleaded with her.

"No, I want to see you dance. It'll be great."

"I don't dance. Especially belly dancing. Do I look like I know how to do that?" Harry wondered.

But before he could protest more, a woman came down and grabbed him and yanked him towards the stage. Draco started laughing but then he got grabbed up too. He tried to resist at first, but then he just gave up and went up there. At least he wasn't singing this time. The girls all danced around them and tried to grab their hips and make them shake their asses, but Harry and Draco looked like two buffoons, which of course meant Ginny was snapping pictures like crazy. Ron looked dejected again because no one picked him and he was just sitting there watching as the girls shoved Draco and Harry at each other and forced them to dance together while they circled them.

"Oh my God, this is priceless!" Hermione giggled.

"I know! Look at them? Harry is useless as a dancer," Ginny laughed.

Ron just glared and then he finally had enough. He didn't wait to be picked, he just walked onto the stage and stood there for a moment.

"What the hell is he doing?" Hermione asked Ginny and Jen.

"He's about to make a spectacle of himself, I'm afraid," Jen sighed.

Ron started to try and dance but it looked even worse than Harry and Draco. But at least a girl finally noticed him and started dancing with him. But he kept looking at Harry and Draco who were now smooshed together between two gyrating women and he left his girl and went over and shoved Draco aside and took his place.

"Is he mentally challenged? Did he just shove Draco out of the way?" Hermione asked.

Draco didn't like this and proceeded to grab Ron and shove him away instead. And the next thing anyone knew Ron jumped on Draco's back and was pulling his hair and Harry just stood there dumbfounded and all the girls stopped dancing and stared. Draco flung Ron off him and he went crashing to the floor, which really pissed him off. He stood again and launched himself at Draco, but Harry leapt in the middle, and the two of them went crashing across the stage and knocked two of the dancers over with them. It was utter chaos and Ginny was cursing and laughing and taking pictures, not quite sure if she should be angry or on the floor laughing her ass off. Jen just stood there and covered her eyes, while Hermione just chugged the rest of her drink and shook her head. The next thing any of them knew, two huge bouncers had rushed the stage and hauled up all three of the men and dragged them off the stage forcibly. Then they approached the table with the girls.

"I'm sorry ladies, but your men need to get the fuck out. Now. Which means, all of you do. These blokes will be outside waiting while you pay up. We don't tolerate fighting or hurting our dancers," one of the men said as he kept a firm hold on Ron's arm.

"I'm so incredibly sorry," Ginny told the man.

"Me too," Hermione said.

"Me three," Jen squeaked out.

"No worries, just pay up and go home. You can pick these tossers up on your way out," he said as he and the other bouncer dragged the three men out the door.

"Well shit. We didn't get to eat the cake!" Ginny cried irritably.

"It's okay, we'll go somewhere else. Let's just get our stuff together," Hermione said, gathering things up.

"Wait, I don't have enough money. Harry has the money," Ginny told them.

"Yeah, Ron has our money. I've only got five pounds," Jen admitted.

"I have money, but not enough for all this. God damn it. I'll be right back," Hermione said as she marched out the door to face the three delinquents.

They were standing in front of the building with zip ties around their wrists like common criminals. They all looked mortified as the two bouncers stood in front of them with their arms crossed glaring them down. They all looked extremely nervous when Hermione marched out.

"We need money, you idiots. We haven't got enough to pay the bill," she announced to them all.

"I can't exactly get my wallet with my hands tied up," Draco told her.

She just sighed and went over and dug through his pants until she got the wallet and took a wad out of it out. Then she turned to the other two.

"I'm sorry, but I'm fishing in your pants as well. So forgive me if I feel you up, but you made this necessary," she informed them as she went to Ron first and dug in his pants and pulled out his money. Then she moved to Harry.

"It's in my front pocket. Be careful digging. It's a deep pocket and you might get more than you bargained for," he warned her.

"Ugh, as if I want to touch your junk. I'll be careful," she said crossly as she stuck her hand in and carefully removed the wallet and took the cash. Then she just shook her head and went back inside to settle up.

"Oh boy, you're in for it later. She's got severe bitch face going on right now," Ron whispered to Draco.

"Me? You're the one who started it! I was forced on that stage. You just invited yourself and then shoved me away. Afraid I'm stealing your boyfriend?" Draco snapped at him.

"Will you both shut up? This was my birthday! Now we're fucking zip tied with two scary sumo wrestlers giving us the evil eye. This sucks!"

"Ron shoved me and then fucking jumped on me and pulled my hair. Is he a five year old girl? Who does that?" Draco complained.

"Yeah Ron, seriously. This is your stupid fault. Why'd you attack me?" Harry asked angrily.

"I was aiming for him! You jumped in front of him like some knight in shining armor."

"I was just trying to make you stop. It's not as if I jumped in front of a bloody bullet for him," Harry said with agitation.

"Well why were you acting all chummy with him anyway? Dancing like two morons together. He's not even your friend, I am!" Ron shouted.

"Are you seriously jealous? Do you think we asked to be picked to dance together? It just happened!" Harry shouted back.

"Okay boys, settle down or we're gonna shove dirty socks in your mouths to shut you up," one of the guys warned them.

They all shut up and just stood there looking at their feet and not saying a word. Everyone was seething though, they just had to do so silently for the time being. Soon the girls came out and none of them looked pleased. But the bouncers cut the zip ties and told them never to come back again. They even took their pictures and said they'd hang them on the wall as to warn the staff they were banned from the restaurant. So essentially their mug shots would be on that wall for anyone to see. They all walked away from the place in silence at first. Everyone was too annoyed or upset to speak. And they didn't actually know where they were going either. Finally they all stopped when Ginny halted the grim procession by standing in front of everyone.

"Alright, I've got something to say here. Ronald, you are a twat. This is your bloody fault. And don't you even dare to try and blame anyone else. We all saw you act like a fuckwit up on that stage. Do you even have anything to say for yourself? Your bloody mug shots are on the wall in there now! We can never go back. Are you happy? Say something!" Ginny yelled at her brother angrily.

"God Ginny, have a conniption, why don't you. I'm sorry! What more do you want me to say?" Ron asked.

"You need to apologize to Harry for ruining his birthday. And you need to apologize to Draco for shoving him and yanking his bloody hair like a little girl," she informed him with her hands on her hips.

Ron sighed. "Fine. Sorry Harry for ruining your birthday. And Draco, I'm sorry I pulled your stupid hair."

"And shoved me. Don't forget that," Draco reminded.

"Sorry for shoving you. Happy?"

"Honestly what was that about Ron? You had some sort of episode. Are you really that drunk?" Jen asked him.

"Yes, I'm a bit drunk. Quite a bit. I just wanted to dance too. It looked fun and you lot were laughing so much and I was just sitting there like dead weight. I was trying to have fun too!"

"So attacking Draco was fun? It was supposed to make everyone think you were funny?" Hermione wondered with irritation.

"I don't know what I was thinking! I just reacted!" he said defensively.

"Look, obviously the party is over. We're banned from Athena's Greek Delights for the rest of our bloody lives, unless we take Polyjuice potion and sneak in. But since I'm fresh out of that right now, let's just cut our losses and get out of here," Harry said with annoyance.

"But Harry, we're supposed to have cake. I brought a cake. It's your birthday!" Ginny reminded him.

"Yes, but where should we go? Back home?" he asked.

"I suppose. Is that alright with everyone?" Ginny asked the crowd.

Everyone agreed and they set off to find a spot that was private enough for all of them to apparate out of the city and back to Harry and Ginny's place. They all started walking but when Ron got near Draco, Draco stopped and looked at him.

"Stay away from me. I mean it. I let you have a go at me. I gave you a free pass to not only punch me, but insult me. And yet you still weren't satisfied. So keep your bloody distance from me or else next time, I'm using my wand. And I will hurt you," He said angrily.

"I'm not gonna do anything again. It's all out of my system now. I'm fine. So keep your wand in your pocket," Ron grumbled at him.

"Oh well as long as you're all better, let us all rejoice. Just don't get us arrested as we walk down the bloody street. I don't fancy being in jail tonight because of you," Draco told him.

Ron just moved over and walked as far from him as possible. It was obvious that the two just couldn't co-exist peacefully no matter what. It would take a miracle. Once they made it to a nice dark alley they all rushed in and apparated quickly. They landed in front of Harry's place and everyone went up the steps and went inside.

"Sorry the place is a bit of a mess. I wasn't planning for us to come here," Ginny apologized as she threw some clothing and magazines across the room to clear off the sofa.

Hermione had been holding the cake box, while Jen and Ginny had the present bags. The bags were set down and Hermione placed the cake box on the dining table.

"I hope it didn't get squished when we apparated. I tried to hold it steady," Hermione told Ginny.

Ginny opened the box and it was slightly melted and smudged and looked like it said 'Pappy Irthday Larry' on it.

"Oh dear, this sucks. Pappy Irthday Larry? I'm sorry honey, but the cake is a bit worse for wear," she apologized to Harry.

"No worries, Gin. It'll still taste good," he assured her.

"We need candles."

"I've got some," Ron piped up with a small smirk on his face.

"Why are you smirking?" Ginny asked.

"No reason. I just brought candles. Here. Put all twenty three on," he urged her.

Ginny took them and her and Hermione started placing them all around the cake until it was completely covered. Then Ginny used her wand and said "Incendio!" and the candles lit up. She clapped excitedly.

"Okay, everyone has to sing. Especially you, Draco. We all know how lovely you sound," she giggled.

"Yeah, yeah. I'm a rock star. Someone else has to start though," he insisted.

Ginny relented and started singing and everyone else half heartedly joined in since no one was much of an actual singer. But when the song was done, Harry made his wish and tried to blow out the candles. They went out and immediately flickered back on. He kept trying and the same thing kept happening. He looked at Ron.

"God damn it, are these trick candles from your stupid shop?" Harry wondered.

"Aren't they great?" Ron beamed proudly.

"How do you get them out?" Ginny asked as she herself tried blowing them out too.

"They'll stop. Eventually."

But they just kept burning and starting to spark and soon everyone was watching as the cake basically caught fire and melted before their eyes. Draco pulled out his wand and pointed it at the cake.

"Aguamenti!" he commanded and a burst of water shot out over the cake and snuffed out the raging fire that Ron's ridiculous candles caused.

"Shit, now it's all fucking wet," Ginny sighed.

"Sorry, but it was about to catch the tablecloth on fire," he shrugged.

"Nice candles, Ron. Thanks," Harry said giving Ron a look.

"I didn't think they'd set the bloody thing on fire," he admitted looking at his feet.

"Someone is very passive aggressive this evening, aren't they? First you ruin dinner, then you set Harry's cake on fire. Get some professional help. I beg it of you," Draco told him.

"It was supposed to be a joke! I mean, it's still funny. Look at the cake now. It's burned and soggy and kind of looks like a partially erupted volcano. It's abstract now. Gives it character," Ron explained.

Everyone just sort of stared at it and turned their heads sideways and studied the mess.

"It reminds me of what it looked like when they blew up the Stay Puft Marshmallow man in Ghostbusters," Draco pointed out.

"Ghostbusters? You've seen that movie?" Harry wondered.

"Yes, Draco is addicted to the telly. He's seen everything I think," Hermione informed them.

"What are we supposed to do with this cake? It's inedible now," Ginny asked unhappily.

"It's okay, I don't need cake. It's the thought that counts," Harry assured her with a kiss.

"I'm sorry this evening didn't go as planned. But it was mostly fun," Hermione offered up.

"Yeah, it was pretty fun at least until we got thrown out and my cake caught fire," Harry sighed.

Ron stepped forward. "It's all my responsibility. I know that. I already said sorry, and I meant it. I really did. But I realize that I totally cocked up the entire night. I won't blame you if you never want to speak to me again, Harry."

"Look, it's okay. No, I'm not exactly your biggest fan at the moment, but it'll pass. I know the candles were a joke, but the shit at the restaurant was childish," Harry told him.

"I know. What more can I say?" Ron wondered.

"Nothing. Look, I'm really happy everyone came to celebrate with me, but honestly, I'm wiped out. Maybe we should just call it a night?" Harry told everyone.

Everyone agreed and said their goodbyes. Hermione hugged Harry and gave him a kiss on the cheek. And Draco just held out his hand and Harry shook it.

"You know, I expected you to do something asinine to ruin this night, but apparently I should have looked a different direction for the riot instigator. I'm sorry you had to deal with all that," Harry told Draco sincerely.

"It's fine. I'll live. But next time if you wanna see me and Hermione, don't bring Weasel. Neither one of us can stand each other and it's not ever changing. But cut him a tiny bit of slack. He's just worried, is all," Draco explained.

"Worried about what?"

"Worried that he's the outsider now and somehow I've taken over his world. But it's ridiculous. And I think we all know that, except him."

"I'll talk to him again. But not tonight. Honestly, I've had enough for one evening. But really, I'm glad you both came. Thanks for the gifts. Oh and I promise to spend the money on something useless," Harry smiled.

Draco just smiled back and took Hermione's arm and they headed out the door and disappeared back to their place. Hermione threw herself on the couch and Draco plunked down in his chair.

"Well that was the most embarrassing evening I can recall. I actually enjoyed that restaurant and now we can't go back!" Hermione sulked.

"Relax, we'll go back. I'll wear a disguise," Draco joked.

"I can't believe Ron acted that way. He's a grown man."

"I know, but he really dislikes me. He's afraid Harry will have more fun with me, and truthfully, I don't think he's completely over you either."

"What? Don't be ridiculous. It's been years. And he dumped me," she protested.

"I don't know, I got that vibe. I'm not saying he doesn't love his wife, but I'm fairly certain he's not over you. Not entirely. And he hates that I make you happy when he never could. He pretty much told me that."

"He did?"

"Yeah."

"Oh. Well that's just weird. And kind of pathetic. He dumped me!" she said irritably.

"I don't think it matters. I think he's just protective or something. Doesn't think I'm good enough. But he probably wouldn't think anyone was," Draco sighed.

"He always used to be like this. I mean, he was too chicken shit to make a move on me for years, but then he got furious at me for dating Viktor. And then out of the blue he suddenly decides I'm in love with Harry and gets all bent out of shape. But whatever. I don't want to talk about him anymore. I don't care. And as far as I'm concerned, he can just stay out of my life from now on. I'm done," she threw up her hands.

Hermione wished that Ron had been a bigger man who didn't act so childishly. He'd fooled her at the wedding because he appeared to be accepting of Hermione's choices. But apparently that was just an act so as not to ruin his special day. But he had no problem ruining someone else's special day. And for that, she was simply furious at him. She couldn't believe that she'd once thought she loved him. Or that she once envisioned her life with him. That seemed so long ago now. It was part of another life. And maybe she needed to stop trying to force him into her new life? It wasn't working. And they'd drifted so much that she hardly ever spoke to him anyway. It was time to cut the ties. She wanted to hold onto him in some capacity because she did have a great affection for him at one time. But she wasn't feeling it now. Mostly she was just disappointed. There was a time when seeing his face gave her comfort, but now it just stressed her out. She thought he'd be different once he was married, but that hadn't made him more mature. In fact, it almost seemed to make him worse. All she knew was that she was done trying keep him in her life. He had no place there anymore. That was the sad truth. They weren't really friends anymore, and they certainly weren't lovers. He was just somebody that she used to know, sad as that seemed to her. But it was the painful truth. Their story was over and it was time to let go and move on completely. And she was ready to do that now.

To be continued….I hope you all enjoyed this chapter! I would love some more reviews so I know if you're liking the story. Thanks to all my followers!