Author's Note: I'm excited. Are you excited? I've been waiting to write this chapter since I first began Lx3. This chapter is extra extra long, especially for my writing style soo...Let's do this thing!


"I think that possibly, maybe I'm falling for you

Yes there's a chance that I've fallen quite hard over you.

I've seen the waters that make your eyes shine

Now I'm shining too

Because oh because

I've fallen quite hard over you"

Landon Pigg- Falling in Love at a Coffee Shop


It was Saturday. And not just any Saturday, but Luna and Neville's wedding. I wasn't normally sappy about that kind of thing, but these were my best friends, the ones who helped us defeat Voldemort and bring peace to the world. They also happened to be some of the most kind, loving, and adorable individuals I had ever met. They were perfect for each other despite their differences. Thank Merlin today was happening. For some reason I could feel that that day was an important one. One that would change everything. Hopefully for the better.

Weddings were also the one of the only times I spent a decent amount of time to get ready. It was fun to play dress up, especially in the beautiful dress Ginny had picked out. I honestly thought she had picked it for herself as the color would have gone so well with her, but she insisted I wear it, if nothing else other than Malfoy would apparently "love it". I had taken a shower and done my nails, magically of course so they wouldn't chip, and was already feeling more dainty than usual. My hair was always an issue but with a bit of magical help it was easily swept into a half up-half down curly style that I wondered why I had never done before. My hair was long, sweet smelling, and undeniably soft by the time I was through. My hair alone made me feel beautiful.

The makeup was always more of an issue. The usual mascara and thin eyeliner, with maybe a bit of shadow, was normal for me if I decided I had the time. But everything else was usually unnecessary. I had decent skin, maybe a few discolorations but not enough to coat my whole face. My natural blush was always present so why add to the mess? I did decide on a lip stain, something I much prefered to lipstick for I hated reapplying. I went with, as the container said, a Guava color-I laughed to myself-that left my lips nice and pink and plump.

Last thing to do was put the dress on. I looked into my mirror as I pulled the dress on slowly, bringing my arms through the right holes and buttoning the one and only button at the very top of the dress. It was a flowing gown, the bottom draping nicely, and the front in a soft v that dropped in between my breasts. It accentuated my curves without being too showy, and kept everything formal in, cough, cough...in place where it needed to stay.

The back was truly my favorite part. It was an open back with two drapes of fabric on my shoulders that formed an upside down v with spaces in the middle of them. It was similar to the shape of a snowflake or a star, cuts in the drapes to show my back and shoulders to anyone who cared to look; the top secured with the single button.

I looked at myself in the mirror for a bit, admiring the work I had put into myself. It felt nice to be pampered, even by yourself. I applied perfume to finalize my look, keeping it a wintery smell that also exuded warmth and peace...if perfume could even do that. I had bought it years ago and never had quite the right occasion to feel it was the perfect...scent. First time for everything I supposed.

I heard Draco outside of his room, shutting the door behind him. I took it as my cue to also step into the hallway, anxious to see what Draco had worn after I only said, "Black suit". I opened my door and found Draco fixing his hair in the mirror by my staircase. He was facing away from me, most likely unknowing of my presence, though I could already tell he was the most beautiful thing I had seen in a long time. He looked simply adorable fixing his hair and checking his face for any blemishes. It was then that he saw me in the reflection and turned around to fully face me.

My heart caught in my throat. I was incorrect. He wasn't the most beautiful thing I had seen in a long time. He was the most pure and alluring man I would see in a lifetime. His eyes hadn't left me and I had spent that time roaming him.

His suit looked new, or barely worn previously. It was crisp and simple. A three piece black suit, a white pocket square, black formal shoes, and a silver tie clip. Pristine. His hair was perfectly messy, all in the name of fashion I assumed, and he was cleanly shaven. I wanted nothing else than to spend the rest of the night admiring him so freely, but at least I knew he came home with me when everything was said and done. I could admire as I wished.

"Hermione," he said breaking the silence. I blushed immediately, just at his tone. It was so soft and subtle, full of peace.

"Yes?" I asked, not knowing what else to say. How could I choose words at such a time? They were unnecessary sounds in the dark void between us that was nothing other than a hallway with a blank wall.

"Hermione," he said moving closer to me. At this distance I could make out his eye's expression. They were full of something I hadn't seen before and didn't recognize. I was honestly unsure of what it truly was. I wanted to plead out, "Help me understand!" but I was silent, letting him take hold of my hands and whisper, "Hermione," again.

He smelled delicious and for a moment my mind went blank. What was this man?

"Draco, what're you thinking right now?" I asked softly, desperate for an answer.

"I'm thinking that I'm in the presence of the most beautiful woman that I have ever met. Do you know how gorgeous you are? The effect you have on those around you? Do you Hermione? I'll never meet another like you," he whispered frantically but with a rhythm. Did he believe that?

"Draco, I'm not perfect I-" I started.

"I never said you were. No one is. But you're perfect in this moment...in this instance...this second. You are flawless."

I wanted to sob. Sob so hard into the arms of this man that I wouldn't be able to control myself. Somehow I did. I stood firm and whispered, "Just kiss me."

Our lips met and something clicked. The small voice in the back of my head whispered that it was complete. What it was I didn't know as I was too concerned with Draco ravishing my entire being. He was a gentleman, but his feelings crossed to me without words. The feeling was intoxicating, electric. I wanted more of him. Everything. But we had plans.

"Draco," I said, releasing him. "We do have a wedding to go to." He chuckled but didn't move.

"It's not out of my system yet," he joked. I smiled and looked into his captivating features.

"You're so handsome you know that? I've never known another man to be as good looking as you are, everyday. I can't believe this…" I finished with a small pause.

"Yes?" he said with a soft and inviting smile, nearly a smirk at this rate.

"I can't believe that I'm standing with you right now. Fate I guess but...The fact that it's you and," I sized him up, "all of this! Draco it's just-"

He put a finger to my lips, silencing me. "Thank you," he said, a blush appearing on his cheeks. "But we do have a wedding to attend."


I could tell when we arrived that the wedding was not a large affair. It was intimate yet somehow there were more people than I expected to see there. Most Gryffindors were in attendance as well as Ravenclaws and family members from both sides. Draco and I followed the mass of people to the park that the wedding was to be held in. It looked traditional which at first surprised me. Neville and Luna were not traditional in anyway shape or form; Luna used to sleep with her shoes on for goodness sake! People were already sitting when we arrived. I spotted a few friends like Dean and Seamus as well as the Patil twins. I looked curiously around for any red heads and only managed to spot one, Bill, who was seated near the front with Fleur and their beautiful baby girl.

Draco and I sat in the middle of the seats, surrounded by, who I could only assume, Luna's extended family. There wasn't necessarily anything off about them but the quirkiness was evident, especially when the woman next to me offered to read my palms. I declined as gracefully as possible and turned to Draco saying, "This will certainly be an interesting night."

He took my hand in my lap and said, "Isn't it already?"

No one seemed to notice Draco or the fact that we were holding hands though a few eyes lingered on him and me. Thankfully none of my closer friends had seen us and badgered us before the wedding even occurred. Ron appeared a moment later followed by Ginny and Harry, as well as a sweet looking girl with dark hair, one I assumed was his date. She looked adorable, not in a childlike way, but in a sweet and kind way. I could already tell she suited Ron and I beamed at the thought. Perhaps he had found someone. None of the four seemed to notice us but I made a note to speak to them as soon as the ceremony was over. Might as well end the awkwardness quickly.

Draco nudged me and whispered, "Lovegood's coming our way." I snapped out of my thoughts and realized that the wedding was beginning. I hadn't seen Neville though I could tell he was already in tears at the sight of his bride who was still out of view. Neville broke down as the guests stood, allowing Luna to walk alone down the aisle to her lovely fiance.

Luna wore a lavender ball gown with butterflies attached to the edges and magically charmed stars to glisten as she walked. A quirky song played as she walked slowly and as she passed my row I realized she was wearing kitten slippers. She looked amazing and powerful.

When she reached Neville she wiped the tears from his eyes and took his large hands in hers. He had buffed up for the wedding and he looked quite handsome.

The minister went through the normal vows and made a note of the lack of groomsmen and bridesmaids. I hadn't noticed before but looking up I realized he was right. There was no one except for the three of them.

"Luna and Neville decided to keep this ceremony simple, without long speeches saying how much they love each other because if you can't tell by now, they are mad about one another," the minister said. There were cooing noises from the men and women around me and I could've sworn I heard Draco snort at such sounds. I was tempted to laugh but contained myself and focused on the feel of his hand intertwined in mine, calming me. "With that being said, I would like to conclude this ceremony the right way."

The pair said the appropriate vows and "I do's" and finally were able to kiss each other.

Neville grabbed Luna by the cheeks and pulled her in for a long awaited kiss, that even from far away I could tell was full of extreme passion and love. We all cheered and I heard Ron and Harry yell, "Neville my man!" The newly married couple smiled and blushed together as they walked down the aisle, leaving behind the guests. When Luna passed again I saw an amused look cross her face as she caught my eye and turned to Draco. She was ever so perceptive and I loved and hated it all at once. If only everyone else had such powers.

"They're very sweet," Draco said as people filed out to get to the party.

I looked at him quizzically and said, "Yes, they are though I never thought that'd come out of your mouth."

Before he could continue I was ambushed from behind by a very amused Ginny Weasley. "Hermione you look GORGEOUS!" she screamed at me with a loud squeal. I turned to face her and found her eyes glittering with happiness and excitement.

"Thank you Ginny! You're looking pretty hot yourself," I said. "Harry must be a mess."

"Am not!" Harry said showing up behind us, clearly out of breath. "But Ginny since when can you run in those heels? She beat us all here!" I laughed and realized I had practically left Draco alone at my side.

I turned and found him standing behind me, a bit reclusive in his stature as he bent down a bit. I took his hand and pulled him closer to me and my friends."Ginny, Harry, this is my date. Draco Malfoy," I announced. "I'm sure you all have met."

Draco was stunned to say the least but he put out his hand and Ginny took it. "Great to see you, Draco. You're looking very dapper."

He thanked her returning the compliment with, "You look very lovely tonight, Ms. Weasley," and then Harry took his hand.

"Malfoy," he said.

"Potter," Draco returned. There was a sense of competition in their eyes though it faded quickly when they released the handshake and turned to Ginny and I.

"Ginny, how about we get a glass of wine?" he asked. Ginny nodded and waved goodbye to Draco and I, winking at me as she left.

Before I had time to thank Draco for being a fairly "good boy" about the whole situation, Ron approached us. "Mione," he said. "It's so great to see you!" Ron pulled me into a hug and we glanced over each other's shoulders. I was met with his date and he must have seen Draco. We released each other and he began speaking to Draco while I talked to his date.

"Hello," I said. "I'm Hermione. You must be Ron's date."

She blushed slightly and said, "Yes. I'm Cassandra. Ron and I met at the Ministry a while back. You look quite beautiful by the way." She was so sweet, everything about her exuded happiness and peace.

"Thank you so much. Ron is quite a nice man. We are good friends and you two look adorable together. I noticed you when you walked in and I have to say I knew immediately how kind and loving you were. It's an amazing trait, I'm so happy for Ron especially that he found you." I was trying not to lay it on too thick but she really was perfect for him. I hoped they worked out.

She blushed again and thanked me just as Ron came back, a smug look on his face. "Hermione it was nice speaking to you and your er..uh...date. We'll catch up more in a bit." He took Cassandra's hand and led her out.

I nervously looked at Draco as we started behind the couple to go to the party. "What did you and Ron just say?" I asked.

Draco chuckled and said, "He threatened to kill me and then beat me up and finally said I should just take care of you, even though I assured him we were not a couple."

I sighed internally at his comment. "Like you wouldn't take care of me either way?" I questioned.

"Of course I would." He took my hand again. "I'll always take care of you. And not just because the Weasel told me to."

The party was in full swing with people dancing and drinking and reminiscing about the old days and old times well spent. Draco and I ate a delicious meal that Mrs. Weasley had cooked for the pair. She insisted on cooking as soon as she heard and thank Merlin she did. Everything was fabulous. The only downside was she spent the entire evening running around with new food; not one word was spoken to anyone as she simply didn't have 'enough time'. Draco and I had talked to some old friends, mostly of mine, and all of them asked what our status was.

"What's the news little Gryffindor Princess?" Dean asked me with a smile. "You and blond boy dating?" I was simply trying to pour myself a drink and avoid listening to the conversation Seamus and Draco were having at the table. Damn you Dean.

"No not officially," I said. "We both decided it was best to not put a title to our relationship."

"You did or he did? Let me tell you Mione, his eyes haven't left you since we got here," Dean said. He took a swig of Butterbeer and said, "Better get back to him before he burns Seamus to a crisp once and for all." I laughed and we hugged a quick goodbye before I hurried back to Draco to save him from my friend.

Seamus was rattling on about some disturbing Quidditch injury that left me queasy after a moment of listening. "Seamus," I interrupted. "I heard Neville's setting up fireworks."

His eyes grew two sizes and he excused himself, shaking hands with Draco and hugging me farewell to go in search of the "Fiery blow up toys".

Draco thanked me profusely and said, "How did you stand that man?"

I kissed him quickly on the cheek and said, "Gryffindor thing I guess."

It was in that moment that the music changed from upbeat pop to a slow song, the first of many I presumed. Draco stood and held out his hand. "I do believe you owe me two dances, Ms. Granger."

I sighed but took his hand, allowing him to lead me to the dance floor. I put my hands where he had told me the first time, letting myself move closer than I had the first time we attempted to dance. We were a bit wobbly at first, well at least I was, as the height difference showed from my shoes. I could lean now on his shoulder or, if he bent down, his forehead. It was the first time all night I felt almost strange being with Draco.

He was so amazing and attractive and put together, for the most part at least, and I was, well, me. Awkward, overbearing, and book wormy. Who would've guessed? It wasn't that the strangeness made me want to stop being with him. I wasn't ashamed and I wasn't uncomfortable, just aware. Aware of the stares we were getting. Aware of the thoughts going through everyone's mind. Aware of his heartbeat.

The song ended quickly, followed by another. Draco held onto me closer and whispered, "Stop thinking so hard I can hear your brain turning."

I giggled and said, "I can't help it. I'm a Granger."

He smiled against my head and kissed my hairline softly. I looked up into his eyes and for a moment I saw nothing but pure bliss. Then he blinked. And it wasn't just an involuntary movement but more a change entirely in what I was seeing. His eyes were darker, their color almost like charcoal, no longer stormy grey. I almost questioned it but I knew at that moment exactly what it was.

The song was nearing its end and I had to say something, something to get out. "Draco would you like to leave?" I asked. He nodded and I instructed, "Get my bag please. I'll say goodbye to Neville and Luna. I'll meet you outside."

Draco turned quickly and I knew he would be out quickly. I made my way over to the happy couple and wished them good luck and my congratulations. I hugged Neville and then Luna who whispered in my ear, "Have fun tonight." She winked at me and sat back down, going back to looking obliviously in love. I smiled and waved goodbye again as well as to Harry, Ginny, Ron, and Cassandra. Draco was outside when I approached him. He quickly took my hand and we were apparating in an instant to the front porch of my house.


We landed and immediately I opened the front door, both of us filing in. The house was dark and the sound of the locking door was ominous. I turned back to face Draco who was looking directly at me. He was breathing slow and deep, consistently. He looked the same as he did in the hallway, his hair still glorious and his clothes immaculate and that same look on his face that I didn't quite understand.

"Draco," I said into the entrance, not knowing what I was thinking except for one thing. Be bold and do it already.

"Hermione…" he nearly growled.

I swallowed hard and mustered every last drop of courage I had, knowing maybe I'd gain some after saying… "Have sex with me."


Author's Note: Surprise, surprise. Welcome to my world of evilness. You'll just have to wait another week. (May I suggest you refer back to Chapter 14 for some info on the pair's relations with other people in the past as well as their preferences *wink wink*)

Please review. Please, please? Also follow/favorite. Mwah!

PS: Hopefully the next chapter won't be a day or so late but I may not be able to post on Monday next week. If possible I may post earlier but if not, know that you'll get your chapter soon enough as it is already written! :)