Chapter Fourteen
Hermione scrunched up her face as she looked through her closet. What to wear, what to wear, she thought. She started to grab a blue, sleeveless wrap dress she had picked up in Los Angeles, but then decided to put it back. Ginny might get suspicious if she showed up in something slightly dressy. She decided she'd better keep it casual, so Hermione opted for a pair of dark blue skinny cropped Guess jeans with a sleeveless white and black color-blocked top, paired with black Sketchers Bobs slip-ons. She took a quick bath, not wanting to shower because she didn't want to wet her hair. When she was done, she looked in the mirror, thinking about how she was going to do her makeup. She decided to go with bold colors to go with her new hairdo. When she was done, she surveyed her look in the mirror. Not bad, she reflected. She had done up her eyes with black eyeliner and bluish-black eyeshadow, light blush on her cheeks, and a bold tawny shade of lipstick. It was much more makeup than she was used to wearing, but Hermione felt it worked with her new hairstyle.
She dressed and went downstairs to tell her parents she was leaving. If her parents' reaction was any indication of how she looked, Hermione figured she'd done a good job.
"Oh my goodness, look at you! Wow, great job on the makeup dear. I'll have to get you to fix my face one day. You're gorgeous!" Mrs. Granger gushed.
"You look lovely sweetheart. You have a good time tonight," Mr. Granger said thinking how Hermione looked so much like her mother at that age.
Hermione hugged her parents and went back to her bedroom to use the floo in her closet. Taking a deep breath, she said "The Burrow!" in a strong voice and felt herself being whisked away. When she arrived, Harry was there to greet her. Hermione almost laughed at the look on his face when she walked out of the Weasley's fireplace.
"Merlin, what did you do Hermione?" Harry stammered.
"I got a haircut. Let's just say Sebastian felt inspired today and took it out on me," Hermione laughed.
"That is some haircut! You look amazing. I'm so glad you made it. I'm a nervous wreck," Harry said as he hugged her.
"Thanks Harry. Look, you'll be fine. When are you planning on proposing?" Hermione asked quietly.
"You and the Weasley's are the only family I have, so I was thinking of doing it when we were all seated for dinner. I want to share it with all you. I hope Ginny accepts," Harry replied nervously.
"I don't think you have anything to worry about Harry. Ginny loves you. This is such wonderful news for two of my favorite people; I can't wait to see her reaction. She probably has no idea," Hermione said. She squeezed Harry's hand and went into the kitchen to greet the rest of the family. Everyone loved her hair and was so happy that Hermione had decided to join them.
"Oi Hermione, you look tough, that haircut kicks arse!" Ron exclaimed.
"Thanks Ron, that's funny. I'm going to go find Ginny," Hermione said and chuckled.
"She's up in her room with Sarah," Ron replied.
"Oh, so it's still going well with Sarah?" Hermione asked, pleased to hear this as she lightly touched Ron's forearm. Sarah was a sweet young woman and hit it off well with Ron.
"Yeah, it keeps getting better and better. I think she's the one 'Mione. I've been shopping for rings. I'll probably pop the question in a few months. I'm so pumped for Harry and Ginny," Ron said excitedly.
"Ron, that's wonderful! I'm so happy for you and Sarah. I can't wait to see Gin's face when Harry proposes!" Hermione said and smiled as she made her way to the stairs to get to Ginny's room.
Hermione knocked gently on the door and heard Ginny yell, "Come in!" When she walked in, Ginny was sitting at a vanity touching up her makeup and Sarah was lounging on the bed. They both did a double take when they noticed Hermione's hair.
"Whoa! I love it! Sebastian, I presume?" Ginny asked and leapt up so she could really look at Hermione's new hairdo.
"Hermione, you look wonderful. Wow, it's as if it brings out the features in your face more. Not that you weren't gorgeous before, but you look really beautiful. This motivates me to try something new," Sarah said and laughed as she flipped her ponytail around.
"Thank you so much! Sebastian wanted to try this new haircut, so I let him. He's so awesome, he could make a baboon look like Angelina Jolie," Hermione laughed.
"I think I'm going to make an appointment," Sarah said.
"Hey, what brings you here tonight?" Ginny asked.
Hermione had to think fast, Ginny was really quick on her feet to notice if something was amiss. "Come on, can't I hang out with friends on a big Saturday night?"
"I'm sorry 'Mione that was rude. I just can't help feeling something is going on tonight. Harry's been acting weird," Ginny said as she sat down at the vanity table and brushed her hair.
"It's no biggie. Oh, were your parents pissed about The Daily Prophet?" Hermione asked relieved that Ginny accepted her explanation and she was able to smoothly changing the subject.
"Mum wasn't too happy, but Dad calmed her down and said we were just having a bit of fun. He said we probably got caught up hanging out with a celebrity and all," Ginny replied and laughed.
"Glad Arthur was able to smooth that over with Molly!" Hermione said.
"Yeah, about that! What's the deal with you and Jeremy Bustamante?" Sarah asked Hermione.
"There's nothing to tell Sarah. We're just friends, but apparently some people can't grasp that concept," Hermione replied.
"Yes, I won't name any names, but how about Draco Malfoy!" Ginny exclaimed.
Ginny and Hermione gave Sarah a condensed version of Hermione's breakup with Draco, telling her that Hermione's first date with Jeremy was setup by his manager. Sarah listened and had a thoughtful look on her face.
"Why didn't you just tell Draco the truth?" she asked.
"I tried to tell him Jeremy and I are just friends, but he insisted that I was a liar and wanted to know who else I had slept with," Hermione answered.
"Huh, maybe you're better off Hermione. Draco sounds really jealous and possessive. Besides, doesn't Jeremy Bustamante seem a little gay to you? I never met him, but after catching glimpses of him on videos and good Godric, those tacky songs, I wonder," Sarah said.
Ginny looked at Hermione and they burst out laughing. "A little gay is an understatement Sarah," Ginny said.
"Gin, you promised you weren't going to say anything!" Hermione shrieked.
"Come on Hermione, when Sarah asked if we thought he was gay, you started laughing! It's like Jeremy's gayness is the big white elephant in the room, everyone knows it's there, but no one wants to talk about it! I think it'll only be a matter of time before he comes out," Ginny answered.
"You're right Gin, but I don't want to be blamed for 'outing' Jeremy. I truly like him as a friend. You know he offered to go to Draco and tell him the truth about our date. I wouldn't let him do it," Hermione said.
"Newsflash Hermione, Malfoy can go to hell! After seeing him out with Astoria last night, he doesn't deserve any kind of explanation," Ginny said heatedly.
Sarah gasped. "He's seeing someone else? I agree with Gin on this one. Good riddance, I say."
Hermione only nodded and felt tears forming in the corners of her eyes. Ginny and Sarah noticed and they grabbed her into a hug. "Don't cry over that bastard! He isn't worth your tears. Hey, you'll ruin that great makeup job!" Ginny said and giggled as she wiped away Hermione's tears.
"Yeah, don't start crying, you're going to make me start blubbering too. I hate when someone's sad!" Sarah said.
"Thanks girls. I can't help it; I still have strong feelings for Draco. I won't lie, it hurt so much to see him with Astoria and their parents last night," Hermione said.
"I know 'Mione, I know. It's going to take some time, but you know what? Each day you're getting stronger, you're going to be okay," Ginny said.
Hermione took a deep breath. "I'm done talking about Draco Malfoy. I'm not ruining my evening and everyone else's. He's moved on, I will too. How about we go downstairs and enjoy your mum's wonderful cooking?"
"Don't have to tell me twice, Molly's pot roast is amazing," Sarah said as she left Ginny's room.
Ginny patted Hermione's hand. "Are you sure you're okay 'Mione?"
Hermione gave Ginny a reassuring smile. "I am Gin, thanks. It's going to take some time, but something tells me I'll make it."
Ginny squeezed her hand and they walked downstairs together. Hermione put on a good front, but inside her heart felt like a boulder, it was so laden with despair. It'll get easier, she told herself. It had to.
As soon as they sat at the table and began enjoying Molly Weasley's fabulous food, Hermione found herself immersed in the chitchat and noisy meal which was commonplace at The Burrow. The Weasley's had always made her and Harry feel so welcome; it truly was a home away from home. After everyone had cleared away their dinner dishes and Molly was serving a dessert of treacle pudding and brownies, Harry stood up.
"I'd like to address everyone if that's okay," Harry said raising his voice over all of the other ones at the dinner table. Everyone stopped their conversations and gave Harry their attention. Hermione was a little nervous for him because she noticed Harry was sweating. She also saw that Ginny was looking at Harry as if he'd just grown another head.
"You welcomed me into your home when I had no one else to turn to. I'm sure I speak for Hermione too when I've always felt so comforted and like family whenever I'm here. You're the family I've always wanted and I hope after my announcement tonight, I'll be a part of it permanently. Ginny, if you'll do me the honor, will you please marry me?" Harry asked, a bit breathlessly and looked expectantly at Harry.
Hermione was amazed to see the normally outspoken redheaded beauty to be at a loss for words. Ginny stayed seated for a few moments, staring at Harry with her mouth open. After what seemed like forever, she stood up and made her way to Harry who was on the other side of the table. "Took you long enough! Yes, I'll do you the honor!" she said as she kissed him and wrapped her arms around his neck.
Everyone at the table started cheering and congratulating the young couple. Harry looked immensely relieved and was grinning from ear to ear. He had asked for Arthur and Molly's permission for Ginny's hand a month before, Harry wanted to do things properly. This evening was a turning point in his relationship with Ginny; he was positive she was the one he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. Tonight couldn't get any better; the woman he loved agreed to marry him and he was surrounded by the people he loved the most. He beamed as Ginny showed off the platinum 2-carat heart-shaped diamond ring. It was truly exquisite; everyone was oohing and aahing over it.
Hermione was so happy for her friends and hated herself for feeling a small pang of not really jealousy, but more regret. Would she and Draco have ever reached this point? Hermione mentally shook her head. No way was she going to let thoughts like that overrule her head. This was Ginny and Harry's night, she couldn't be distracted by thoughts of someone who obviously had moved on with his life.
They moved to the living room and Mr. Weasley broke out a bottle of muggle champagne he'd been saving for this exact occasion. They all took turns toasting the newly engaged couple. Arthur and Molly Weasley couldn't have been happier. Ginny and Harry decided that they would get married the summer of the following year. It was going to be a grand event.
Arthur and Molly were worn out with the evening's events, so they told everyone goodnight and headed to bed. Ginny's brothers and their wives said their goodbyes and headed home. Hermione looked around and felt a little out of place. Ginny was sitting on Harry's lap and couldn't stop kissing him, and Sarah was cuddling with Ron. No one likes being the third wheel, so she decided she'd head back home.
"Hey guys, I think I'm going to go home. Thank you so much for having me over. This was truly a spectacular evening. Wow, two people I love and care about more than anything in the world are getting married! Doesn't get better than that," Hermione said and smiled, a bit wistfully.
"Oh 'Mione it's too early to go home! Hey, I've got a brilliant idea! Let's go to the 3 Broomsticks," Ginny exclaimed.
"Really? You want to go there? I guess we can," Hermione said hesitantly.
Ron looked at Sarah and she shrugged. It didn't matter to her as long as she and Ron were together. "We're up for it," Ron said.
Ginny grabbed Harry's hand, "What do you say love? I'm too excited to sleep, I say we go out and celebrate. I want to shout it from the rooftops, I'm engaged to Harry Potter!"
Harry laughed and embraced his fiancée. "Anything you want, my beautiful future wife, anything you want to do is fine with me."
Hermione could see that she was not going to worm her way out of not going, so she departed out of the floo with the rest of her friends. When they arrived at the 3 Broomsticks, she was pleasantly surprised to see that there was a nice-sized crowd there. She was at the bar and was about to order a drink, when she felt her cellphone buzz. She pulled it out of her pocket and smiled when she saw it was a text message from Jeremy.
Hey, where u at
Hermione read it and snorted. She typed out a reply:
Can u believe I'm at the 3 Broomsticks in Hogsmeade?
As soon as she sent her reply, Jeremy sent one right back:
Don't move! I'll be there in 3 shakes of a lamb's tail!
She started to laugh and shook her head. Maybe tonight wouldn't be too bad with Jeremy to keep her company. Hermione saw the door open and it was Jeremy. He was looking around, so she waved and called his name.
"Jeremy, over here at the bar!" Hermione shouted.
Jeremy gave her a big smile and hugged her when he met her at the bar. He took a seat beside her and they began to giggle like middle-school girls. They received quite a few stares, but no one made a big deal of Jeremy Bustamante showing up. He liked that about the wizarding world; he could come and go as he pleased. There was no way he could've just shown up at a muggle bar, he would've been mobbed in seconds.
"Your hair is gorgeous! Oh Merlin, turn around so I can see the back. Whoever did your color did a stupendous job! I love it," Jeremy gushed.
"Sebastian got a wild hair up his butt and took it out of me," Hermione laughed.
"Well he ever gets another wild hair, I hope I'm around for him to take it out on my hair. He did a really great job. I like that I can see so much more of your face. You're really lovely Hermione," Jeremy said sincerely.
"Aw Jeremy, that's so sweet of you! Thanks," Hermione replied. She and Jeremy continued chatting and ordered butterbeers. When they had their drinks, they went over to where Hermione's friends had managed to grab a table in the crowded tavern. She introduced Jeremy to Harry, Ron, and Sarah. They were surprised to see a celebrity like Jeremy at the 3 Broomsticks. Ginny stood up and gave him a huge hug, much to Harry's dismay. As Ginny was about to sit down again, Jeremy noticed the huge rock on her left hand.
"Whoa! What's this?" Jeremy asked, his eyes widening as he grabbed Ginny's hand and examined the gorgeous ring.
Ginny smiled as Jeremy looked at the ring from all angles. "Harry and I got engaged tonight."
"Congratulations, that's great! So I suppose you're here celebrating. I hope I'm not intruding. I texted Hermione and only wanted to hang out. I can go," Jeremy said as he gave Ginny her hand back and shook Harry's hand.
"Don't be foolish! We're glad you're here. Come on, grab a chair. It's not every day we get to hang out with a major star," Ginny laughed.
Jeremy rolled his eyes. "Please enough with the star crap. I can't tell you how nice it is to be around normal folk. I love it here. No mobs are forming and I can actually sit and enjoy a butterbeer. I appreciate the fans and all, but it's nice to take a break from it now and then."
Everyone at the table nodded in agreement with Jeremy. As the night went on, the guys and Sarah liked Jeremy more and more. He was really personable and down to earth. Harry was glad that Hermione seemed to get along well with Jeremy. He was upset when Ginny told him about Hermione and Draco's breakup; he knew Draco Malfoy couldn't be trusted. He and Ron wanted to kick the Slytherin's ass, but Ginny threatened them with various hexes and told them Hermione was handling it. As Harry watched Hermione and Jeremy laughing and talking, he couldn't help having the feeling that they acted more like a brother and sister bantering, than a couple dating. Oh well, what did he know, Harry thought. Hermione looked like she enjoyed Jeremy's company and that's all that mattered to Harry. If Hermione was happy, he was too.
"Well, well, look what the cat dragged in," Everyone at the table looked up in surprise when a male voice uttered these words. Hermione started to laugh when she realized it was Lane and Travis. She leapt up from the table and went around hugging her band mates.
"Hey, I thought you were going to be in the States!" Hermione exclaimed as she gave each a young man a hug.
"Dang girl, that's some haircut! I like it! Yeah, Trav and I were all set to go home, but our flight was delayed. We figured by the time we arrived home, we'd only be there for a few hours and then we'd have to come back. It didn't make sense to go. We were upset, but we'll try again next weekend," Lane replied.
"So here we are. Wow, 'Mione your hair looks great! What made you cut it?" Travis asked as he looked Hermione over. Could she have gotten any hotter looking, Travis thought and groaned inwardly. And what was The Turd doing with her?
"Let's just say Sebastian and I decided I needed a change. I'm so glad you're here. Join us," Hermione said happily. Everyone moved over and happily greeted Lane and Travis. Hermione looked around and was glad Ginny wanted to come here. It was good to be surrounded by true friends.
Jeremy watched with interest as he noticed Travis kept sneaking glances at Hermione. He couldn't believe Hermione never noticed that Travis was interested in her. Maybe Hermione needed a push in the right direction. No, Jeremy thought. He better leave that alone. Hermione's feelings were still raw from breaking up with Draco; Travis would only be a rebound. Jeremy thought it over and came up with the same conclusion as Lane, Hermione and Travis having a relationship would be devastating to The Gryffs. But what a nice diversion for Hermione, he thought as he snuck a look at Travis, admiring his former classmate's trim physique and overall good looks. Travis reminded him of that muggle actor, Kellan Lutz, the one from those vampire movies. Yeah, better leave that alone.
The night was young and lo and behold, in walked Blaise with Pansy, followed by Draco and Astoria. Ginny saw them first and looked across the table at Hermione. Hermione was laughing at something Travis told her, so she didn't notice the two couples. Jeremy noticed Ginny staring at something and turned his eyes in that direction. He quickly turned back when he saw who it was. He looked at Ginny and mouthed "Fuck!" as in what should they do about this turn of events. Before they could decide on a plan of action, Pansy spotted the table and made a beeline for it with Blaise. Astoria followed too, pulling a very uncomfortable looking Draco behind her.
Hermione never noticed because she was laughing at Travis telling her about Madam Rosmerta having a crush on Lane. This all started when Hermione asked if Lane and Travis had brought in their own alcohol since they were drinking bottles of Bud Light. Travis claimed the tavern owner made a special order of muggle Budweiser just for Lane.
"Dude, you're so wrong for that! She's a nice lady. Hermione, she likes both of us. Travis is being an asshole," Lane said laughing.
"I know man, I just wanted to fuck with your head," Travis replied.
"Keep it up. I might let some of your secrets out," Lane said and looked at Travis over his bottle of beer. The alcohol had loosened his tongue a bit.
"Come on, you know I was just joking. Besides, I don't have any secrets," Travis said with as he looked at Lane almost with a pleading look.
"Yeah, probably if you did have some, they would be too gross to repeat," Lane answered and laughed heartily as Travis punched him in the arm. He'd never reveal Travis' crush on Hermione, but sometimes you had to keep younger, cocky guys in line!
As this was taking place, Pansy walked up to the table and greeted everyone. Hermione looked away from Lane and Travis when she heard Pansy's voice. Her eyes took in Pansy, Blaise, that dimwit Astoria, and finally Draco. She and Draco locked eyes and Hermione saw Draco take in a breath when he noticed her hair.
"Hey, no one told there was party here tonight and I wasn't invited! How are all of you? Check it out, Blaise and I are engaged!" Pansy exclaimed as she pushed out her left hand with a huge sapphire and diamond engagement ring on the ring finger. It was truly an impeccably, perfect piece and had been handed down in the Zabini family for generations.
"Pans, congratulations! I'm so happy for you!" Ginny said as she stood up and hugged her friend. Hermione and Sarah made their way to Pansy and Blaise to offer their congratulations and admire the ring.
"Seems like love is really in the air tonight!" Sarah remarked.
"What do you mean? Is someone else engaged?" Pansy asked.
Ginny laughed and showed Pansy her left hand. Pansy squealed, "Merlin, Gin! I can't believe we're engaged at the same time! This is brilliant!"
As everyone congratulated each other, Hermione walked over to the side and smiled as she watched her friends. Draco followed every move she made; fuck, he missed her so much, he thought. Who would've thought a haircut could make Hermione look even sexier? The animalistic side of him wanted to bend her over a table and take her in front of everyone. His hands balled up into fists as he watched the American wizard Travis, sidle up to her.
"Hey Hermione, Lane and I are going to go back home. We're glad for your friends, but all this romantic crap is sooo not our scene," Travis said in her ear as he stood close.
"I understand. Be prepared because Neville proposed to Luna last night, but I doubt he'll be gushing about it like Ginny and Pansy," Hermione replied and chuckled.
"Damn, my boy Neville got engaged? Go ahead; we're going to have to throw him a bachelor party!" Travis said.
"Keep me out of it, I'm not going to strip clubs with you guys. Like I want to see other women's boobs," Hermione said and rolled her eyes.
Travis laughed and said in a serious tone, "I hear you. Look, are you going to be okay? I don't want to pry, but Lane and I know you and Draco aren't together. For what it's worth I'm here if you want to talk." He gave Hermione's right shoulder a squeeze and let his hand linger.
"I'm okay Travis, thanks for the offer. Just sucks seeing him with his new girlfriend. I might as well go home too. I'll see you guys at practice," Hermione said and smiled as she patted his hand. She turned and hugged him, and then hugged Lane. She watched them leave the tavern and then walked back to the table to let her friends know she was going home.
Draco had watched this whole exchange and was seething with anger. It took all of his self-control not to run across the room to beat Travis to a bloody pulp as he pawed Hermione. He hated the way Hermione laughed and talked with Travis. Had she really moved on? Just how many guys were in her life, Draco thought as he noticed Jeremy Bustamante was there too. He was like a panther stalking its prey as he watched Hermione walk back to the table.
"I think I'm going to head home. I have brunch with my parents tomorrow and a few assignments to catch up on. It's been a great evening," Hermione said to her friends.
Jeremy stood up. "I'm right behind you babe. We'll go back to London together."
Ginny and Pansy walked out with them. Draco was going to try to follow them to see if he could listen to their conversation, but Astoria pulled him to a table and started to talk his ear off. He only half-listened as she babbled on about how she couldn't wait to be engaged. Damn, that bitch was annoying, Draco thought as he tried not to roll his eyes.
"Hermione, for what it's worth, Draco was having dinner with us at Blaise's house and Astoria just showed up! The nerve of that bitch. Draco didn't seem pleased to see her," Pansy spat.
"Really it's fine Pans. I'll see you at school and let's concentrate on your good news. I'm so happy for you and Gin," Hermione replied and hugged her friends to her.
"Thanks 'Mione. You know we're always there for you, right? I can turn Astoria into a sloth or something if you like," Ginny said hopefully.
"You'll do nothing of the sort Ginerva Weasley! It's not the young girl's fault, although a sloth is pretty funny! Look, you both need to go back in and enjoy the rest of your evening with your future husbands," Hermione chuckled and gently pushed both of her friends to the door.
"Okay, we'll talk later. See ya Jeremy, we hope to see more of you," Pansy said.
"That's a possibility. Congrats again to you lovely ladies. Goodnight," Jeremy said. He and Hermione watched them walk back inside. Hermione sighed and started walking alongside Jeremy to get to an apparation point.
"I figured you needed to get out of there. Girl, did you see the way Draco was staring at you? Goodness, I thought he was going to bore holes through your body! I don't care if he's with that other girl, Draco Malfoy is so not over you," Jeremy said.
"Jeremy, let's just blow this taco stand and go back to London. If we keep talking about this, you're going to have a messy, teary, upset girl on your hands. I just want to go home," Hermione said, her composure slowly melting.
"No problem sweetheart, hold onto my arm and we'll get out of here," Jeremy said as they apparated away. They ended up in Hermione's closet at her parents' home. By then, Hermione couldn't hold it in anymore and the tears started. Jeremy held her close and soothed her, like a parent calming a sad child down. When Hermione felt better, she apologized to Jeremy for ruining his shirt.
"Jeremy, I'm so sorry. I'll see if I can do an anti-stain spell. I hope I didn't ruin your shirt!" Hermione said sadly.
"Girl please, it's just a damn shirt. Don't worry about it," Jeremy replied.
Hermione muttered a spell and the stain was gone. Jeremy looked down and was amazed. He made Hermione recite the spell to him; that one was going to come in handy when he was on tour. She looked at Jeremy and shook her head.
"What?" Jeremy asked.
"I've been so preoccupied with my personal bullshit, I never asked why you're in London," Hermione said.
"I was here to audition for a part in play," Jeremy replied.
"Cool, which play?" Hermione asked.
"'Rock of Ages.' Have you heard of it?" Jeremy answered.
"Yeah, isn't that the play with the 80's music? That's pretty cool, what part did you audition for?" Hermione asked.
"It was for the lead, a character named Drew. The stage is my first love, so I was excited to be asked to audition for this," Jeremy said.
"Jeremy, that's great! When are you going to find out if you have the part?" Hermione replied.
"Actually I found out tonight, well technically last night, it's after midnight!" Jeremy said.
"Why didn't you say anything?" Hermione asked.
"Everyone was so excited about their engagements. My part in a show is small potatoes compared to that," Jeremy answered.
"Don't ever feel like that Jeremy! I'm so excited for you. I guess you'll be in London this summer," Hermione said.
"Yes, Scott has already found a house to rent that isn't too far from the theater. Let me know if you want to attend a show, I'm sure I can get you good seats," Jeremy said and smiled.
"I'd love to. I just have no idea what The Gryffs schedule is going to be like. Hopefully I'll be able to squeeze in a few visits home. I definitely want to see your show. This is so exciting!" Hermione said as she hugged Jeremy.
"Thank you sweetie. Hey, why don't you clean off that makeup and get your jammies on? I'll go back to my hotel. You need to get some sleep," Jeremy said.
"Jeremy, if you don't mind, could you stay with me?" Hermione asked.
"Sure, I can do that," Jeremy replied.
Hermione smiled at him gratefully as she entered her bathroom. When she came out, Jeremy was in a T-shirt and shorts, holding his toothbrush. He giggled as Hermione laughed and shook her head.
"Did you accio that from your hotel room?" Hermione asked.
"You got it. Do you mind if I use your facilities?" Jeremy asked.
"Like you need to ask, you big oaf!" Hermione said as she playfully pushed him towards the bathroom.
When Jeremy came out, Hermione was in her bed and he climbed in beside her. The lights went out and they were both lost in their own thoughts as they slowly fell asleep. Jeremy thought of Scott and how much he missed him. Hermione tried to push Draco out of her mind, but failed miserably. She and Jeremy were quite a pair.
The next few weeks were almost a blur for Hermione, they went by so quickly. She was glad for the hectic schedule and hours she and Neville were keeping; she only thought about Draco in the late evening hours before falling asleep. She and Neville had taken their final exams and passed with flying colors. The tour was starting on Friday, June 1st, but they were scheduled to leave on Tuesday, May 29th to make sure everything was going to be in order before their opening night. It was the Monday before that Tuesday, and since Hermione was done with her classes, she spent some of the day packing up her belongings. She sent most of it back home because Cecilia said to only bring a few personal items. They were supposed to be meeting with a personal stylist and getting whole new wardrobes. Hermione looked around her room and sighed. It was as if she never lived there. Ginny was going to step in and take over the duties of Head Girl and she had no intention of moving into Hermione's room. Headmistress McGonagall agreed it was okay for her to stay in Gryffindor's dorm. It was of no consequence since they would be graduating in a few weeks.
Hermione spent the day walking around Hogwarts and joining her friends at mealtimes. It hit her that this was going to be her last time here until she returned for the graduation on June 16th. This school had played such a huge role in her life and now she was actually going to graduate. She visited with Hagrid and told him goodbye. Hagrid wiped away a tear as he watched Hermione walk back to the castle. That lass was going to make a huge name for herself in the muggle world, Hagrid thought. Hermione met up with Mr. Filch and Mrs. Norris. She told Mr. Filch and his cat that it was her last day at Hogwarts and was shocked when the normally grumpy old man hugged her and wished her well.
She and Neville shared their last meal in the Great Hall with their friends at the Gryffindor table. Hermione looked at Neville and gave him a sad smile. Neville smiled back and patted her hand.
"I know what you're thinking, 'Mione. It hit me too that this is our last meal in the Great Hall. I still can't get over that we're finished at Hogwarts," Neville said.
"I know, we have so much history here! Well, here's to new beginnings," Hermione said as she raised her goblet of pumpkin juice to Neville's.
"Here, here," Neville agreed as he lightly tapped Hermione's goblet with his.
When they left the Great Hall, Neville left to spend time with Luna in her dorm and Hermione went with Ginny and Pansy to Ginny's room. They spent some of the evening looking at muggle bridal magazines, speculating on dress styles. After a few hours, Hermione looked at her watch.
"I guess it's safe to go back to my dorm. Malfoy's little woman probably returned to her dorm by now," Hermione remarked. She hated going back to the Head Dorm and seeing Astoria canoodling with Draco on the couch. She did a good job of ignoring the couple as she walked past them, but as soon as she entered her bedroom and closed the door, she felt herself breaking down. Hermione was glad to be leaving, at least she wouldn't have to see that anymore.
Ginny and Pansy hugged her, making her promise to contact them whenever she had a spare minute. They wished her well and walked with her to her dorm room. Hermione waved to her friends and gave her password to the portrait. When she entered the dorm, she was relieved to see that there was no sign of Astoria or Draco. Hermione went to her room and grabbed her nightgown and panties. She undressed and took a long, hot shower. How she missed Draco's touch. Would she ever feel this with another man? When she was done, she dried off and dressed for bed. She went into her bedroom and laid out her clothes for the next morning. She and Neville were set to leave from the floo at 7:00 a.m. sharp. They were going to meet Lane, Travis, and Cecilia at the airport hangar.
Hermione climbed into bed and realized she was too keyed up to sleep. She conjured up a muggle novel she to read, hoping that would help her fall asleep; but it was to no avail, 20 minutes later she was still wide awake. She turned her pillow over a few times and punched the bed in frustration. That was when Hermione decided to do something drastic.
Draco couldn't sleep either. He kept thinking about what Blaise told him earlier today. Hermione was leaving the next day. Draco kept up a cool façade in front of everyone, but inside he was a mess. He couldn't believe Hermione was no longer going to be there. Nothing had changed between them. They barely saw each other and when they did, she ignored him. That was why Draco was so shocked when the door to his bedroom opened and it was Hermione.
Hermione took a deep breath before she opened the door to Draco's bedroom. What the hell was she doing? She figured she was going to throw caution to the winds and take a chance. Maybe she could exorcise Draco out of her mind by being with him one last time. She turned the knob and walked in. She closed the door and stood near it as Draco stared at her as if she was a ghost. She stifled a groan as when she saw he was only wearing boxer shorts.
Draco couldn't believe it. Hermione was in his room. He pulled back the sheet that was over him and was about to get out of his bed, but Hermione raised a hand and shook her head. He watched as she made her way to the bed and climbed in with him.
"Hermione, what's this all about? You ignore me, now you're in my bed," Draco said softly.
Hermione put a finger to his lips and then removed it, as she kissed him softly. Draco moaned and kissed her back. He didn't need an explanation, all he knew was that Hermione was kissing him. His girl was back. He ran his hands through her short hair, loving how soft and silky it felt. Hermione pushed him on his back and straddled him. Draco put his hands on her hips and watched as she removed her nightgown. She began to kiss him again as her breasts grazed his bare chest. How Draco missed this he thought as he traced the outline of her body. He hoped this wasn't a dream. Draco gently turned them over so that he was on top. He was fully erect and pressed himself against Hermione. She started to remove his boxers and Draco helped her as he kicked them off and let them fall to the floor. He grabbed her panties and gave a small smirk as Hermione lifted her hips so he could pull them off. Draco couldn't wait anymore, he wanted her so badly. He plunged into her warmth and Hermione gasped as he filled her. She wrapped her legs around his waist and met him thrust for thrust. Draco had to slow it down, he was about to come and he wanted it to last as long as possible. He kissed Hermione deeply and then he placed small kisses on her neck. He began to move again and looked at Hermione as she bit her lip and had her eyes closed. He loved her so much and wanted to always remember her like this. Draco began to thrust faster as she pushed her hips against him. He couldn't stop this time and shouted her name as he spilled his hot seed into her. He stayed inside of her and put his head on her chest. They were both breathing heavily as Hermione stroked his hair and wiped the sweat away from his face. Draco picked up his head and looked into her eyes.
"I love you so much Hermione. Does this mean we're together again?" Draco asked.
"I love you too Draco. Let's just enjoy our time together. Maybe I shouldn't have done this, you're with Astoria," Hermione said.
"No, I'm glad you did. Let's not talk about Astoria. I'm so happy you're with me. I hate that you're leaving tomorrow," Draco replied.
"Draco, let's not talk," Hermione said as she kissed him again.
Draco responded by kissing her back and it wasn't long before he was aroused for a second time. They made love again and afterwards Hermione fell asleep as she lay across his chest and he stroked her hair. Draco fell asleep not long after.
The next morning Draco woke up and Hermione wasn't in his bed. He walked to her bedroom and looked forlornly at the empty bedroom. She was really gone. Why had Hermione come to him last night? He was going to have that night burned in his memories for years to come. He'd never love another woman like he loved Hermione. Maybe someday they would find each other again. Draco went back to his bedroom. It was still early in the morning, but he couldn't get back to sleep. He pulled a chair by the window in his room and stared out into the distance, wondering where Hermione was and if she was thinking of him.
When you're dreaming with a broken heart
Then waking up is the hardest part
You roll outta bed and down on your knees
And for a moment you can hardly breathe
Wondering was she really here?
Is she standing in my room?
No she's not, 'cause she's gone, gone, gone, gone, gone...
-Dreaming With a Broken Heart: John Mayer
When Draco realized Hermione wasn't there, she and Neville had already boarded the jet with the others. It took off soon after and they were on their way to Omaha, Nebraska to meet up with The Black Keys. Everyone was a little groggy from having to leave on such an early flight, so it was quiet. Hermione sat back in her seat and reflected on the events of the night before. She wondered if Draco had woken up yet and saw she was gone. It took every bit of strength to leave the warmth and comfort of his arms, but she had to. She didn't know why she thought spending one last night with Draco might have driven him out of her system. It only made things worse. She loved him more than ever.
A/N: What am I going to do with those two? Enjoy! Sorry it takes a little while to get the chapters up. It gets a little hectic with school and other obligations.
Appreciate the reviews and alerts:-D Take care!