The Burrow

Hermione was afraid she'd have a heart attack before she'd even be able to leave that room, but then she saw him and all the tenseness, fear and uncertainty suddenly vanished and she just threw herself in Draco's arms. He held her so firm, it nearly hurt, but Hermione didn't care. She was just happy to be near him.

"I'm so glad you're here! We should leave immediately." she finally whispered and he sighed.

There was something in his gaze she didn't understand and it made her feel very uncomfortable. Draco looked at her painful for one moment, his grey eyes reminding her of a storm. Hermione wanted to ask him what was wrong, but before she could do so, he'd already bent down and kissed her breathless. This didn't feel right. Hermione didn't understand why, but something just didn't feel right.

Draco's kiss was passionate and intensive and soon she moaned and pressed her heated body against him. He didn't try to push her away or remind her that they'd have enough time to continue later and this worried Hermione even more. He finally broke the kiss and buried his face in her hair, hugging her as if he'd love to never let her go again.

"Draco?" she croaked fearful, not knowing what she actually wanted to say.

He looked at her and the storm in his eyes was gone. There was just grey blankness. She tensed. His face was motionless for one long moment, but then he smiled crooked and Hermione relaxed again, relieved to see him like that. She never wanted him to stop smiling.

"Let's go." he whispered husky and Hermione nodded, still fearful. Her instinct told her that something wasn't right and she therefore held Draco's hand a bit too firm. She'd have rather died than let go of him.

They left the room very silent and started their journey through the darkness.

ooooo

Draco didn't seem to need light. He'd grown up in this house and led Hermione through the different corridors without thinking twice. They walked some minutes in silence and Hermiones heart was pounding. For one silly moment she was even afraid someone might be able to hear it. The strange feeling that something terrible was about to happen didn't let go of her.

Draco led her downstairs through dark and stony corridors. It reminded Hermione a lot of the Dungeons in Hogwarts. It was getting colder and colder down there and she started shivering. Draco noticed and took off his leather jacket. He wore a green sweater underneath and didn't seem to be cold at all. Hermione didn't want to take his jacket, but he just rolled his eyes and put it around her shoulders without saying a word. She blushed and smiled grateful. It was warm and smelled of Draco and Hermione felt suddenly better. For one short moment he watched her with those stormy eyes again, but then they continued walking.

Hermione was surprised that they didn't meet any guards, but Draco seemed to know where to lead her. They finally reached an underground dungeon. He approached one of the thick stony walls and took out his wand. Draco performed a non verbal spell and a hole suddenly appeared which was obviously the entrance of a tunnel.

"I'm impressed." Hermione whispered and Draco winked at her smiling. The smile didn't reach his eyes, though.

He reached out for her hand and she took it without hesitation. They followed the tunnel out of the house for about 10 minutes. It was dark and humid, but Hermione didn't complain. There was still that strange feeling and besides they weren't safe yet.

When she suddenly smelled fresh air and saw the cloudy sky above her, Hermione sighed relieved. In front of the tunnel was a certain green-eyed 'Death Eater', already waiting for them. She smiled at him and he smiled back. The smile faded though, when he watched his younger self.

Hermione glanced at Draco and frowned. He looked as if he was in pain and she was immediately worried again.

"Draco, what's wrong? We should really disappear as fast as we can." she whispered concerned and noticed that even their saver nodded.

"She's right. We shouldn't lose time now."

But Draco still didn't move.

"I won't come." he finally said and locked eyes with Hermione.

Hermione felt as if her heart skipped a beat. She suddenly knew that there was nothing she could do to convince him. So that's why he kissed me like it was the last time… Another farewell-kiss…

"I won't go without you." she stated determined, her hands on her hips. "We could have spared this way, because I'll definitely come back with you, Draco. I won't let you stay here alone!"

Hermione glanced at the other Draco, who was staring at his younger self with a frown. He obviously tried to figure himself out. Hermione would have laughed if this situation wouldn't have been that serious.

Draco shook his head, his eyes like liquid steel.

"I'm sorry, honey. But please believe that I love you. I really do."

Before Hermione could ask why the hell he behaved like that, Draco had already performed a spell and stunned her.

ooooo

Draco had a feeling that Connor, or whoever that guy was, would have loved to punch him. He didn't know why, but the way the stranger had reacted to him stunning Hermione had perplexed him.

His spell had hit her unexpectedly and she'd broken down as if he'd knocked her out. Connor had immediately approached her and had caught her in last minute before she'd hit ground. The fury in the eyes of that stranger had made Draco frown. And for some strange reason he didn't like seeing Hermione in his arms. He restrained his sudden jealousy and approached them slowly.

Draco bent down to place a little kiss on Hermiones rosy lips. Connor watched him frowning and Draco felt a strange satisfaction. He'd wanted to kiss her one last time before she'd leave and besides he just had a feeling he needed to mark his territory. Draco wanted to hold Hermione, to disappear with her somewhere far away and forget about everything else. But he couldn't.

"Why the hell did you do that?" Connor finally hissed, still trying to control his anger.

Draco closed his eyes for an instant.

"To keep her safe."

Connor frowned but seemed to believe him, which was kind of strange regarding the fact that they didn't know each other.

"Listen, I've no idea who you are and why you even helped us, but I have a favour to ask. Please take Hermione away from here. Best would be The Burrow, if you can. Please." Draco said convinced that he could trust this guy, even though he really didn't know why he felt that way about a complete stranger.

Connor sighed.

"What about you?"

Draco pressed his lips together.

"I have to deal with some things here. I can't leave now; it would be more than suspicious. Even if I'd come up with some stupid excuse, it still would be strange. I'll stay here and play my role and if everything works out then I'll meet her in Hogwarts after the holidays."

Draco didn't know why he even tried to justify himself in front of this guy. He just looked into those foreign yet familiar green eyes and cleared his throat.

"Could you…, I mean…, please make her understand before you leave. And take care of her. Please."

Something in Connor's eyes suddenly softened and Draco had to look away. He glanced one last time at Hermione, who seemed to be safe and comfortable in the arms of that stranger and Draco ignored the pain he felt when thinking of letting her go.

"I'll bring her safe to The Burrow, don't worry. Just take care of yourself."

Draco nodded. He had a lump in his throat and eventually turned around to leave.

"Thanks. I'm in your debt. Whenever you need something, don't hesitate to ask me."

Draco couldn't see the painful expression on Connor's face. He took a deep breath and left without looking back.

ooooo

Hermione felt as if a truck had run her over. She opened her eyes and moaned. Her head hurt and she couldn't remember why she actually felt that empty. When she met those familiar grey eyes, recollection suddenly came back and she sat up a bit too fast and moaned again.

"Where are we?" she croaked, looking around.

Hermione noticed the hay she was sitting on and the scent and noise of some horses and cows. It was already dawn and the first shafts of sunlight illuminated the foreign place.

"We're actually in a barn." he answered and Hermione grimaced.

"I can see that, thanks. I'd like to know where this barn is and why we're here."

Draco sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. That simple gesture made Hermiones eyes get watery and he looked at her worried. Before he could say something, she already started sobbing.

"He stayed, right? And he stunned me! I will definitely kick his ass when I see him next time…" she threatened not at all convincing.

Draco suddenly lifted her on his lap and she buried her face in his chest, crying and sobbing. He caressed her hair and kissed her temple, trying to comfort her. His embrace was warm and familiar and Hermione moaned longing. She wanted him to hold her like that right now…

"He'll be fine, Luv, stop crying. He's at home, don't forget that. He'll be ok…" he whispered softly and Hermione finally relaxed.

She sighed.

"He's such a pighead…"

"Yeah, I know, but he didn't want to hurt you. He was right, to be honest."

Hermione looked up at him angry and he smiled.

"It's not that he didn't want to go with you, but imagine how people would have reacted to his sudden absence. The Dark Lord isn't dumb, you know. He'd have ordered people to keep an eye on Draco and that's exactly what we're trying to prevent. Draco knew you wouldn't want him to stay, so he decided to just make that decision for you. He's sorry."

Hermione snorted.

"Did he order you to say that? And why is it Dark Lord all of a sudden? You've spent too much time with the Death Eaters."

Hermione felt immediately sorry when she saw his hurt expression. She took his hand and apologized quietly.

"I didn't mean it like that… It's just that I'm really worried and afraid and furious and a lot more I can't even describe."

He caressed her back and smiled understanding.

"It's ok, Luv, don't be sorry. You're right after all. I call him like that because it's safer than saying his name. And my cover isn't allowed to blow. And Draco really asked me to make you understand why he did what he did. It wasn't easy for him."

Hermione nodded. Part of her did understand, but she still didn't think he'd chosen the right way by simply knocking her out and making decisions for her.

"Nobody managed to stun me like that. I didn't even see it coming. He's bloody fast…" she murmured still angry.

Draco just chuckled.

"You still didn't tell me where exactly we are." Hermione finally reminded him and he smiled.

"We're actually in a barn in Ottery St. Catchpole." he explained and Hermiones eyes widened.

"You brought me to Ron." she stated motionless and Draco's smile vanished.

"He thought it would be best for you to be with your friends. You'll need them, Luv. It's still more than a week until you return to Hogwarts and you'll be glad to have some distraction."

Hermione knew that he was right, but she didn't want to admit it. She felt treated like a little child and she didn't like it. Draco noticed her defiant expression and smirked.

"Who's the pighead now?" he teased and Hermione grimaced before she finally smiled back.

She sighed and shrugged.

"I can't help it now anyway, so I guess I'll just try to make the best of a bad job. But next week will be hell for me…"

Draco suddenly bent down and kissed her forehead.

"I'll take care that you two can stay in contact."

Hermione smiled grateful and hugged him firm.

"Thanks so much, for everything."

She was suddenly reminded of that sweet kiss and her cheeks flushed.

Draco smiled knowing but didn't comment about it.

"It's time to go, Luv. I'll return and look after Draco. I'll tell you what happens, ok? Can we meet here again? Maybe the day after tomorrow at midnight?"

Hermione nodded. They stood up and went outside holding hands. It was cold and everything was covered in snow. It was actually beautiful, but she didn't feel like admiring the landscape.

Draco squeezed her hand and they disapparated. When Hermione could breathe again, they were suddenly standing on a meadow right in front of The Burrow.

"I'll take care of him, I promise." he whispered calming.

Hermione smiled without looking at him.

"I know. But don't forget to take care of yourself as well." she said warmly and squeezed his hand once again.

He suddenly hugged her firm and she put her arms around his neck, just holding him close. Draco looked at her loving, kissed the back of her hand and vanished.

Hermione sighed and looked at the comfy house in front of her. She felt at home here and that was exactly what she needed now. She gazed into the now clear sky and heeded Narcissa's advice: she prayed.

ooooo

Hermione went towards The Burrow and couldn't help always thinking of Draco. How was he? Did he sleep now? What would he have to endure until he was finally able to return to Hogwarts? Would he be punished for visiting his own grandmother? And what if she'd wait for him next week and he simply wouldn't come? Questions upon questions and no answer far and wide.

Suddenly the door swung open and Hermione stood in front of a flabbergasted Mrs. Weasley.

"Hermione…" she whispered surprised, a basket in her left hand and her wand in the right one.

"Good morning, Mrs. Weasley. I'm very sorry to barge in like that, but I…, well I just wanted to see Ron, Ginny and Harry of course." she explained lame and blushed.

Mrs. Weasley's gaze softened and she put down the basket to hug Hermione motherly.

"How about breakfast, dear? I'm sure you're starving."

Hermione smiled and nodded relieved. They went into the kitchen together and she suddenly didn't feel that lonely and desperate anymore.

Mrs. Weasley immediately started to make toast and eggs with bacon and Hermione drank a cup of tea, while calming down a bit.

"I don't know what exactly happened, because nobody wanted to tell me…" Mrs. Weasley started with pursed lips. "…but I guess you had a fight with either Ron or Harry, or probably both, right?"

Hermione was too tired to come up with some believable lie, so she just nodded depressed.

Mrs. Weasley nodded.

"I knew it. Those two have been pretty thoughtful these days. I don't think I've ever seen them so serious. They didn't even really enjoy Christmas. Oh, by the way, did you get your present, dear?"

Hermione choked on her tea. Her presents were either in Hogwarts, or if the house-elves had been really fast, they probably had sent them home. She managed a smile however and nodded.

"Oh, yes, thanks for the great sweater."

It had been a guess and she'd been lucky enough to be right because Mrs. Weasley smiled all over her face and put a big plate with delicious French Toast, scrambled eggs and bacon in front of Hermione. Her last meal had been Nessa's dinner two days ago and she suddenly really felt like starving.

Hermione began eating and she enjoyed every single bite. Mrs. Weasley watched her satisfied and eventually frowned.

"What was that fight about, Mione? Nobody wanted to tell. I mean you never fought, I can't imagine what happened. And what jacket are you wearing? I didn't know you like leather, dear. Looks expensive, though."

Hermione gulped and didn't really know what to answer, when she was fortunately released by Ginny walking into the kitchen. Hermione hadn't even noticed how much she'd missed Ginny. The redhead looked at her stunned and finally smiled bright. She wore blue jeans and a green sweater and her long hair was tied into a pigtail.

"Mione!" she suddenly screamed and Hermione stood up grinning before both girls hugged each other excited.

Mrs. Weasley smiled but reminded them to be silent.

"The boys are still sleeping!" she whispered and Ginny nodded, still grinning.

"What happened? Why are you here? I'm so glad you came!" Ginny started babbling, when she caught her mother's curious glance and Hermione's discomfort.

The redhead glanced at the basket Mrs. Weasley had put down in front of the door.

"Mione and I will collect the eggs, Mum. We'll be back soon." Ginny said smiling. She took Hermiones hand and the basket and left the kitchen at record speed.

ooooo

"That was close…" Hermione said relieved and Ginny winked amused.

"Sorry, I didn't think of Mum. She asked all the time why you didn't come and if something was wrong, but we didn't tell her and so she got even worse and curious like hell. She'll definitely try to catch you alone to ask you about everything."

Ginny rolled her eyes and Hermione laughed.

"Gin, I really missed you."

The redhead smiled a bit sad.

"I missed you too, Mione. We actually all did. How come you're here? I thought you went home?"

Hermione cleared her throat.

"Well, no Gin, I didn't go home. And I didn't stay in Hogwarts either. I actually spend Christmas with Draco."

Ginny's eyes widened in surprise and Hermione started talking. She told Ginny about everything that had happened the last days. She didn't mention the nights with Draco and the important role of his future self of course, but apart from that she told Ginny everything. The redhead listened attentive and didn't interrupt her. It felt great to finally get it off her chest and Ginny wasn't someone who condemned people.

"Oh my God!" she eventually said when Hermione had finished.

Ginny had turned pale and she shook her head disbelieving.

"You were at Malfoy Manor? Malfoy Manor, Mione! You could have died! Do you know how close you where to He-who-must-not-be-named?"

Ginny's terrified expression made Hermione feel sorry.

"He wasn't there, Gin! I was lucky and now I'm safe, so please don't worry anymore! I'm sorry; I didn't want to startle you…"

The redhead shook her head again.

"Mione, I thought Harry was exaggerating. I always thought he just couldn't stand Malfoy and that's it. But you know what? Maybe he was right. Maybe this whole relationship is much more dangerous than I'd ever imagined."

Hermione wanted to protest but what could she have said? Wasn't it true after all? Hadn't they definitely overestimated themselves? Ginny noticed her expression and approached her apologetic.

"Mione, don't get me wrong. I'm not against your love. I'm just really worried. I don't want you to be in danger."

Ginny's pleading brown eyes made Hermione feel warm and she smiled.

"I know. But aren't you even in greater danger, Gin? Your boyfriend is the Chosen One after all."

Ginny grimaced.

"I guess you have a point. We're not that good in choosing our lovers, are we?"

Hermione laughed.

"No, we definitely failed in this subject."

They both laughed and collected the eggs. It was pretty cold and Ginny started shivering in her sweater. She gazed at Hermione and noticed the black leather jacket she was still wearing.

"That's Draco's, right?" she finally wanted to know and Hermione nodded with a blush.

Ginny sighed.

"He definitely has taste. I guess that jacket costs more than all of my clothes together."

Hermione frowned. She examined the jacket closer and noticed a Lagerfeld label. She gulped. Money surely wasn't one of Draco's problems…

"What will you tell Ron and Harry?" Ginny suddenly asked worried. "It's just…, well… I don't want you to fight again. I was glad you finally kind of made up."

Hermione sighed.

"They won't like it, but I decided to tell the truth. No lies anymore. How can I expect them to trust me, if I lie to them? I just have to hope they understand…, or at least that they'll try…"

Ginny nodded.

"Honesty is the best policy. But those two are pretty stubborn, especially Harry…"

There was a shadow in Ginny's bright eyes and Hermione suddenly remembered Luna's words.

Harry is worried about your relation with Draco Malfoy. His fierce reaction confuses Ginny and she fears he might be in love with you unknowingly. And Ron doesn't like this idea as well…

Hermione suddenly had a lump in her throat. She'd been shocked to hear those words and she'd told Luna that this was complete nonsense. But she also remembered the dreamy answer of the blonde Ravenclaw.

And you're sure about that?

Hermione hadn't been sure.

ooooo

Hermione watched Ginny a few moments and felt a strong need to protect her best friend. Even though she knew that Ginny was tough and capable of defending herself, she was also aware of the fact that Ginny loved Harry from the bottom of her heart. He was her weak spot, the only one who could seriously hurt her.

"Harry will calm down. He's just overreacting. I'm sure he'll finally understand." Hermione said, not really convinced of her own words.

Ginny grinned pitiful.

"You could at least try and make it sound probable, Mione."

They both looked at each other and started laughing. It was so easy to be with Ginny.

"I'm glad I met you first." Hermione stated honestly and Ginny smiled.

"Me too."

ooooo

They finally returned to the house, the basket filled with eggs, when the kitchen door opened once again.

Harry and Ron went towards them, both with their hands in their pockets.

"Mum told us you're here. So you still came for New Year's Eve." Ron eventually said with a little smile, his ears turning red.

Hermione smiled back at him. It was a good feeling to see them.

"Yes, I kind of barged in this morning, I'm sorry, I should have told you."

Harry didn't look into her eyes. He normally didn't fear facing her.

"There's no need to apologize." he whispered. "We're glad to have you here."

Hermione took a deep breath.

"I think you'll change your mind if I tell you where I come from…"

Ginny bit her lip and Ron and Harry both faced her curious.

"I didn't go home for Christmas. I was with Draco."

Ron pressed his lips together and stared her down while Harry tensed.

"You spent Christmas with Malfoy? All the time?" he asked disbelieving.

Hermione nodded.

There was something in Harry's gaze Hermione couldn't identify and then he sighed devoted.

"Guess I should have known that." he finally said motionless and Hermione cocked an eyebrow in surprise.

"Would you mind if we talk inside? I'm freezing to death!" Ginny complained and they all entered the house.

After greeting Mr. Weasley in the kitchen, they went upstairs and finally sat down on Ron's bed.

"It's best you just start from the beginning, Mione. And no more lies, ok?" Harry asked serious and Hermione nodded.

"I'm sorry, I lied earlier. But we just kind of made up and I didn't want to ruin that again."

Ron looked down at his hands and Harry gave her a nod, showing that he didn't hold it against her. Well, not that much at least.

Hermione took a deep breath and started telling them how they visited Nessa and how Lucius Malfoy had appeared. She told what had happened in Malfoy Manor and how Draco had finally saved her. Hermione explained why Draco had decided to stay and how he'd told her to come to her friends. She noticed that there were many gaps, because there were lots of things she actually couldn't talk about, even though she really wanted.

Harry and Ron listened carefully, while Ginny held her hand comforting and encouraging. When Hermione eventually stopped, they were silent for some moments.

"I can't believe you were in Malfoy's house…" Harry croaked pale.

Ron stood up all of a sudden and looked down at Hermione with a furious expression.

"Damn, Mione! If you ever bring yourself in such danger again, then I'll spank you till you can't sit for at least a month!"

Hermione, Harry and Ginny faced Ron flabbergasted and too surprised to contradict. He noticed the sudden attention and blushed.

Hermione smiled.

"I'll keep that at the back of my mind, Ron. Thanks."

Ron felt obviously uncomfortable and sat down again, his face still as red as his hair.

Ginny couldn't hold back a grin and even Harry had to smile. He got pretty soon serious again, though.

"Mione, there are a few things I don't get. How did you manage to come here if Malfoy didn't leave?"

Hermione sighed.

"A friend of his actually helped us. He apparated with me and left when I was safe."

Harry frowned, but didn't seem to find her explanation implausible. He probably thought it was suicidal, but not unbelievable. Hermione had a feeling he considered her to be the dumbest person in this room. She couldn't hold it against him. From his point of view she really seemed to be very unreasonable.

"Mione, we can't protect you when you're lying. Please, promise to be honest from now on."

Hermione felt guilty. She bit her lip. There were things she just couldn't tell. But did that actually count as a lie?

"Harry, first of all, thanks. I know that you're worried. And I hate lying to you, please believe me. But you have to stop being that overprotective. I can really take care of myself."

Harry snorted and even Ginny gave her a short glance.

"Mione, we've been separated for three days and you already managed to be locked in Malfoy's house. Do I have to say more?"

Hermione grimaced. Well, he was somehow right, wasn't he? As he didn't know the circumstances it probably appeared as if Draco couldn't take care of her – unlike her friends. Hermione didn't want to annoy Harry, but she just had to defend Draco.

"Harry, I'm ok. Nobody harmed me. Draco could have let me alone, but he followed without hesitation and he was the one who sent me here."

Harry's eyes were now narrowed.

"We would have also come without hesitation, Mione."

Hermione gasped.

"No! Never! Swear by your parents that you'll never let anybody lure you out Harry Potter! Swear it!"

Ginny looked at her surprised and even Ron finally glanced at her puzzled. Harry just frowned.

"Did I miss something?"

Hermione took a deep breath to calm down.

"Harry, you are the most important person in our fight against He-who-must-not-be-named. Even if you don't feel that way, but you're the one who actually needs protection. I am nothing in this fight, just a pawn in a chess match. Maybe I'm helpful, but my loss won't decide this war."

Harry looked at her intensively.

"What you're trying to say is that I should just sit and watch if one of you ever gets captured?"

Hermione nodded.

"Exactly. This is not just about us, Harry. This is a fight for everyone who suffers under Voldemort. It's for everyone who believes in you and your success. You have a responsibility, Harry. Don't throw your chance away by playing the hero in the wrong moment. Swear you won't bring yourself in danger because of someone like me."

Harry snorted and stood up angry.

"Someone like you? You're one of my best friends, Mione! You're kind of family for me. If I'm not fighting for the ones I love, for whom am I fighting then?"

Hermione stood up and took his hand with a smile.

"I don't say you shouldn't fight for me. But if you have to make a decision…, I mean if you ever have to choose between my life and that of hundreds of people, then I ask you to choose them."

Harry seemed pissed, even though he didn't let go of her hand.

"I swear to do what I believe is right. Is that ok?"

Hermione squeezed his hand.

"It's enough."

ooooo

"You don't have any baggage with you, right?" Ginny asked 20 minutes later.

They were both in her room, preparing a bed for Hermione, who now shook her head.

"No, I'm sorry. But I'll write a letter to my parents anyway. I want to tell them I'm fine and I can ask them to send me some clothes…"

Ginny nodded.

"You can share my clothes for the time being. They won't fit perfectly because you're a bit taller, but our figures are quite alike, so you won't look bad."

Hermione nodded grateful. She glanced out of the window. The sky was still clear and the sun even shined, but it was nevertheless pretty cold. What did Draco do right now? Was he fine? Did he miss her? She already felt as if she hadn't seen him for ages.

"He's ok, Mione." Ginny whispered and Hermione faced her with a smile.

"Yeah, I know. But I just can't stop worrying."

She shrugged and Ginny nodded understanding.

"I'll do my best to distract you. Fred and George are again working, even though Christmas is barely over. They are more successful than they would have ever been in the Ministry. They live in Diagon Alley now. Dad also wants to start working today. He was promoted and has a lot of work lately. The safety measures didn't only increase in Hogwarts of course. Well and Bill and phlegm went out on a date…"

Hermione frowned.

"Phlegm?"

Ginny grinned.

"That's how I call Fleur. She visited us to get to know the family… You know that they're getting married, don't you?"

Hermione gasped.

"Bill and Fleur are getting married? I had no idea…"

Ginny nodded depressed.

"I can't stand her. That terrible, French accent just drives me crazy. Mum hates her as well, even though she'd never admit…"

Hermione shook her head.

"I'd never expected that, to be honest. But who am I to complain about Bills choice."

Ginny grinned.

"Tonks was here yesterday. She looks terrible. I don't know what's wrong with her, but since Sirius died, she just lost her colour – in the true sense of the word."

Hermione frowned.

"Tonks and Sirius were cousins, right? Maybe she is therefore that depressed. Poor Tonks, I feel sorry for her…"

Ginny nodded and sighed. They kept silent for some moments, when Ginny's eyes suddenly started gleaming and she smiled bright.

"You know what? The day after tomorrow, there's a party in Ottery St. Catchpole. It will probably be just a little festival in a barn but you need some fun, Mione and I think this would be just the right distraction for you."

Hermione cocked an eyebrow and finally smiled.

"The day after tomorrow? That actually suits my plans…"

Hey everyone! I got so many great reviews, I couldn't believe it. Your kind words and the enthusiasm for my story inspired me a lot and I immediately sat down to write chapter 21. I can't believe it's already 21. Hope it won't get too long; I don't want the story to become boring.

I really hope you like this chapter as well and I'd be very happy to receive some more reviews. It's just such a good feeling to read your opinions. Thanks a lot to all of you! And thanks a lot to those who added my story as one of their favourites, or even me as an author. I can't describe how happy I feel every time I get such an email. It's a great honour for someone who's writing the first fanfic. Thanks a lot and have a great weekend!