Before they arrived back at the tower their disguises had fallen but the tension only heightened.

The thrill of being able to be out in public, having a real night out like a normal couple, only fueled the anticipation for the Birthday Alumni Ball.

There was still so much to do, she wanted everything to be perfect for their first public appearance as a couple. Plus they had to work on their house unity platform.

Knowing the next few days were going to be gone in a blurr, the couple knew they had to make the most of their evening.

Almost drunk from the Adrenaline they stumbled up the stairs using the wall to balance as they tried to decide which room, pushing toward Draco's room the clothing starting the shed leaving a trail in their path.

Falling into the emerald bedding provided a cool shock to their stimulated skin. Falling on their backs fingers entwined.

A happy giggled ripped through Hermione's chest through the rush of getting away with their secret. This might need to be a regular plan of theirs. Turning to glance she saw nothing but joy, innocent and purity on Draco's face. He must have been feeling the same rush as she was. This moment of giddiness after a date was a pivotal moment that they were deprived of thanks to the war.

Enjoying the buzz they felt just pure bliss of each other company. The first yawn hit them before their eyes started to close.

Wrapped in each others arm, the stresses had melted away. Waking up as the sunlight streamed through the curtains, Hermione stirred realizing she finally slept through the entire night, which hopefully meant Draco had as well. Maybe taking the social pressure away helped them forget for even a moment that they were just a man and woman wanting to enjoy each other. Blood lines were no longer dividing them, this was a new era.

Being extra careful not to wake him, she snuck a piece of parchment and scribbled a quick note before disappearing to her room to get dressed for the day. She wanted to get a jump start on her to-do list for the day. She no longer had her formal wear and had a lot to prepare for and confirm some minor details for the Ball.

Good Morning

You looked too handsome to wake. But that also meant you slept through the night.

I had some quick errands to run before the prefects bring the students to the alley.

When my packages arrive- no peaking!

It will be worth it I promise

xoxo

Getting dressed quickly she flooed to the Alley and met Luna for some shopping and planning before the rest of the students arrived.

Luna was happily munching on a chocolate frog waiting at Madam Malkins shop. She was not open to the public yet but knew it was in her best interest to make her self available to Miss Granger.

" Hermione! The Nargles are just flocking to you! You have to tell me everything"

Unable to hide her grin, she could help the tears well in her eyes as she hugged her dear friend.

"Only if you tell me how long you and Neville have been an item"

The pride on both their faces spoke volumes for the joy and love they were feeling in their broken worlds.

Having received her special request before the rush of the remaining students, Hermione's custom dress was ready for her final fitting.

Stepping inside the shop, the girls were treated with warm tea and toast to enjoy while they shopped in peace.

Luna was browsing the rack waiting for a dress to speak to her aura. Madam Malkin watched the odd young lady closely before she got an idea for what she was looking for.

After trying on multiple gowns, Luna stepped out fo the dressing room, a tad defeated by not finding the perfect dress.

With a small flick of the wand the pastle blue dress clinging to Lunas figure started to spout stunning animated lace butterflies. The chiffon skirt shifted to a spectrum of bright colors.

The dress just radiated beauty and nature. Unique, natural and stunning.

" Oh this is stunning, Neville won't be able to take his eyes off me, this is all the colors of his Aura. This is the one"

Hermione couldn't resist showing Luna the dress. She went so far out of her comfort zone, she thought it would really give the press something else to focus on for a hot minute.

She slipped into the dressing room and just stared in awe at the gown waiting for her. tracing her finger over the hem line almost made her nervous.

" Luna be very honest with me, I went a little wild with my choice of dress. I wanted to make a big statement. You know we are talking about unifying the houses"

The Material clung to her figure and made her feel radiant. She was still a tad nervous about being plastered on tabloids wearing this but she wanted to look as good as Draco made her feel.

"You ready to see? be kind"

Stepped out of the dressing room, Lunas eyes widened like dinner plates and a soft gasp left her lips.

"You look… wow….. just wow…"