Chapter 35

Hermione sighed to herself as she looked around the room. She could picture her mother dragging her father into this room to be together. It was surprising how if she closed her eyes she could almost feel her mother's presence around her. It was comforting to know that she was watching over her however.

Hermione stared at the few pictures that contained her mother and father together. She was grateful for Severus. They were simple pictures of the two looking at one another or holding each other. She could see it in their eyes, their adoration for one another.

Hermione wondered if she held that same look in her eyes. Hermione stared thoughtfully at the picture that surprisingly held The Marauders, her mother, Lily and even Severus. It was a Ball. Sirius had his arm around Chloe, they all looked happy together. Across the way was Severus, who was staring at Chloe, who returned gesture. Chloe appeared to be glancing back with a secret smile. Her eyes held longing, regret and love. At first glance you would assume it was for Sirius. However, Hermione could not be fooled.

The future haunted Hermione as much as the past did. It was troublesome. She wanted to scream at the pain. The ache within her had been building for so long. She wanted to understand her duty to the world. Mind. Heart. Mind. Heart. Mind. Her mind told her to be rational; there is no time for fickle romances when the world is at stake. Her heart told her that having something precious would make the fight more meaningful.

"Bloody," Hermione whispered. Hermione understood that the future was drawing near. If she couldn't even decide whether or not she was in love with a guy, how could she be dependable in battle? In one moment a battle could be decided when hesitation strikes. Did she want to take that leap into the unknown?

Her laugh echoed and bounced throughout the glass dome. Ridiculous. Sitting around unsure of what would go on was a pointless battle. As much as she could imagine what the future would foretell, people change and so does the sands of time. She had learned that the moment she saved Sirius and Buckbeak.

Harry needed her to be at full attention. He needed her help. His safety was her main concern. There was no time to find herself daydreaming. It was her duty to the world. She could afford no distractions as bittersweet as they may be.

She reluctantly removed herself from the safe haven and back to the chaotic mess that surrounded her. She had no choice in the matter. She would have to remove the issues that clouded her judgment. With a fierce conviction she decided it was time to forgive the prat and be done with these issues. She would let him back into her life, just not be involved with her.

After a long conversation with the headmaster, he was pretty sure that the talent show would be a successful event. He was feeling nervous for some odd reason. There was something in the air that made him feel unnecessarily aware of his surroundings. He knew that he didn't have the inner eye to even feel like something was going to happen, but it felt like something was going to change and he wouldn't be able to stop it from changing.

'Draco. You're just being paranoid.' He thought to himself as he walked through the corridors.

He was too lost in thought to realize someone staring at him from across the hall waiting for him to approach.

"Draco," the person called.

'Did someone say my name?' he thought as he was trying to figure out what was going on with him.

"Draco," the person repeated.

'How could I miss this?' Draco thought realizing who was calling him. It was Professor Snape. He was leaning against the doorframe that leads one into the Great Hall with a curious look about him.

"Yes, sir?"

"A word," Snape said to him.

"Of course," Draco stated a little nervous.

"Follow me," Snape stated sparing no glance back as they walked towards a more secluded area.

"Can I ask, what is this about?"

Severus Snape was not particular fond of the idea of his daughter being with Draco Malfoy, but he knew that he had to set the boy straight on some things. He knew that he was different from his father; his mother had softened the boy. Severus knew that he could be a good man if he wanted to be.

He sighed to himself. "I would like to offer you some advice."

Draco was confused as to why Snape would have any reason to speak with him outside of classes. His father and he were relatively close. He respected the man, but he was confusing him by being personally involved with his affairs.

Draco nodded to signal that he was listening.

"From one man to another, who has been a bigger prat than yourself. I say that you give up your pride, just this instance to get what you want. Regardless of the consequences, happiness and contentment can be found. You know what you want. Take it." Snape stated with a funny look on his face.

'Did I just tell him to take Hermione?' Severus thought to himself with a shudder. It was an awkward moment that left the two silent for a brief moment of time.

"I'm already taking care of it." Draco stated being vague.

He had already decided before going to the Headmaster that he was going to figure a way to earn Hermione's forgiveness. Draco was a little annoyed. 'Am I that transparent? Do I look like a bloody Hufflepuff?'

"I understand circumstances are not fair. However, Draco, there are other ways to live your life." Snape stated. "Without regret is one of them. I've regretted letting someone very dear to me go. And as your mentor, I must tell you that there aren't many girls like Miss. Granger."

He wondered if his advice would be suited for Draco. They both were letting their guards down around one another. He couldn't afford to let him know too much without knowing he was completely trustworthy. If he couldn't be trusted, he would oblivate him.

Draco nodded his head taking his advice to heart. He nodded enthusiastically to find his way out of this situation. 'If I just smile and nod. I'm sure I can get out of this conversation.'

Severus sighed realizing that grin was one he had seen many times before. It told him that Mr. Malfoy was trying to appease him and wanted to find a way out.

"You may leave."

"Thank you, sir. I have some things to take care of." Draco stated leaving the room.

This was all I had of this chapter a few years ago. It's seems odd to leave it incomplete…but maybe I'll update again to continue the story. I feel so disconnected from this story right now, probably cause I've only re-read the last few chapters. It might take me a while to reconnect with it. I know what you're thinking, why even update if you aren't going to put the effort into it. I felt like I should write some more or at least think about writing.

1-15-2012