Song lyrics are those of Kylie Minogue, what do I have to do?

Show him with a dance.

Hermione Granger sat in the heads common room, having just been made head girl. However, she couldn't remember ever feeling more depressed and low as she did now.

Yesterday, on the Hogwarts Express, had been one of the worst days of her life. She'd woken up early that morning, not being able to sleep at all. She was so thankful to Ginny Weasley, who had stood by her side through the whole thing. She didn't know what she would have done without Ginny at her side. Probably gone crazy or killed herself right there. What had happened had been so bad; she could hardly put it into words.

Flashback.

"Hermione, we want a word with you," said Harry quietly, as Hermione entered the compartment, having just left the heads compartment.

"Ok," said Hermione quietly, sitting down next to Ginny. She'd been at the burrow that summer, but only Ginny had seemed herself. Harry and Ron had seemed very distant with her, but all the other Weasley's had been just as kind to her as ever.

"Have you wondered why we've been distant with you this summer?" Said Ron just as quietly.

"Yes," said Hermione, "I have." She did not like where this was going at all.

"Well, Hermione, it's because we've found out your secret."

Hermione stared at them. She only had one secret, which she hadn't told anyone, how could they have found out?

"You really need to be more careful where you put your diary," said Harry quietly. "You left it on the table of the common room, open. WE saw your secret, which you hadn't told us and with good reason... We know you're in love with Draco Malfoy."

Hermione went white as a sheet. Why had she been so stupid? She'd kept that to herself so well, how had she let it slip so easily? Damn her! Why had she left her diary there?

"We don't know how you can love that evil excuse for a man," said Ron quietly. "He may not have taken the Dark Mark yet, but that means nothing. You can't have both Hermione; it's him, or us. What I mean by that, is you need to get rid of your feelings for him, never mention him to us, in other words, while you still love that man, we don't want to know you. WE don't want to be your friends. You and Malfoy heads, ha? What a good piece of luck."

Hermione stared at Harry and Ron, unable to believe what she was hearing.

"I… I can't help how I feel, I never intended you to find out…"

"We know, Hermione." Said Harry quietly. "That makes it even worse, you could have turned to the dark side, betrayed us all, because he could have made you, because you love him."

Harry and Ron sneered at Hermione, who was shaking slightly.

"Goodbye, Hermione," said Ron. "When you've decided where your loyalties are, we'll be here for you, but not until then."

Hermione stared at them, tears starting in her eyes. She couldn't believe she was hearing this.

"You can't help who you love," she said quietly. "You guys aren't serious? We've been friends for too long."

"We believe you can help who you love," said Harry quietly. "That's just girl rubbish. Yes, we are serious. It's him, or us."

"I haven't made any move towards Draco, I mean Malfoy at all. He doesn't even know how I feel."

"Sure he doesn't," Harry scoffed. "Well, he will do soon, I'm sure. WE don't want to know you, while you even have feelings for that man! Get rid of them, then we may want to know you again and we will find out if you're telling the truth."

Hermione slowly stood up, she was shaking. Before she could move, Ginny had her arms around her and was holding her tight and helping her to the door.

"Maybe she can't help who she loves," said Ginny, glaring at Harry. "But I certainly can! You uncaring, cruel bastards! Both of you! Harry, we're over! Ron, you are no brother of mine!"

Ginny gently helped Hermione out of the door and back to the heads compartment. She gently helped Hermione through the door, where Malfoy was sitting against the far wall, by the window. Malfoy took one look at Hermione's face and the way Ginny was helping her in, but said nothing. Hermione took the seat next to the wall across from where Draco was and Ginny sat next to her and put an arm around her shoulders.

Hermione couldn't help but look at Draco. Yes, she was in love with him, she knew it. His father was dead; his mother had joined the order. But she had no chance with him, she knew it.

End of flashback.

Hermione sat in the common room now, thinking of Draco. The way she'd looked at him on the train and had he been looking back at her? No way! She was sure he wasn't, he hadn't been.

Draco suddenly came out of his room. Quickly, Hermione stood up.

"Are you coming to breakfast, Granger?" Draco said quietly.

"No, Dra… I mean Malfoy, I'm not very hungry.

Malfoy stared at her.

"What?" She asked quietly.

"You were going to call me Draco," he said in surprise. Hermione looked at the floor.

"Sorry," she said quietly.

"Why?"

"Well I…"

"Hermione, it's alright. I prefer Draco to Malfoy anyway."

"You called me Hermione!"

"Yes, I did and I'm not sorry."

Hermione slowly stood up and approached Draco. Could this mean what she hoped it did? No way! He was just being nice to her. His father dead, his mother in the order, could this be confirming her theory about him that he'd never really wanted to be a Death Eater and had been pressured by his father?

"Can we be on a first name bases alone then?" She asked him quietly.

She didn't know why the hell she loved him, but she did. Maybe because she was seeing the soft heart of Draco, she'd never seen before. Why was he suddenly being nice to her now his father was dead? Had the whole hatred thing just been a mask he was hiding under? All because of his father? No. She was imagining it. He'd never love a Muggle born, no chance.

"Yes, I'd like that, Hermione," he said quietly and he did look like he genuinely meant it.

"I'd like it too, Draco." She answered.

Hardly daring to, Hermione approached him and held out her hand. Draco looked astonished for a second, and then gently shook it!

Slowly, they headed out of the portrait whole, together! Hardly any of the slytherins were back this year; most had probably gone to join Voldemort and the Death Eaters.

Ginny met them coming down the corridor. She smiled and said hi. Hermione walked with Draco and Ginny into the great hall. Quietly, Draco headed off for the almost empty Slytherin table. Ginny walked with Hermione to the Gryffindor table and sat down next to her. Harry and Ron were right over the other side. Hermione noticed Fred and George sitting opposite her and Ginny, glaring at Harry and Ron. She cast a surprised look at them, wondering why they were there; they just smiled kindly at her.

After breakfast, Fred and George followed Hermione and Ginny out of the great hall and into an empty classroom. They were ten minutes early for class, so they had time.

"Git's!" George burst out angrily, as soon as the door was closed. "Absolute git's!"

"I never thought I'd see the day," said Fred, angrily. "Harry of all people, we thought he was decent!"

Fred and George came forward and gently hugged Hermione.

"Ginny said you let her see the entry in her diary, she told us some of it. Hermione, you can't help who you love, we believe that. Harry and Ron were bam out of place and we've told them so."

"In no uncertain terms," added Fred darkly.

"Ginny," said Fred, "you did the right thing splitting up with Potter! I can't believe he'd be so cruel!"

"Hermione," said George gently, "Ginny, Fred and I are all here for you. You understand?" The three of them hugged Hermione gently.

"Thanks, that means more to me than I can tell you. I really appreciate it. I'm just shocked; I can't believe they'd do that! I haven't actually made a move on Draco, I mean Malfoy, but…"

"Hermione," said Ginny gently. "I read the latest entries and you said how Draco's started to be nice to you, you've started calling him Draco, he hasn't taken the Dark Mark, his father's dead, his mother's joined the order, what if…"

"No, Ginny, please don't go there! It'd be too good to be true!"

Before Hermione knew where she was, she was telling them about the conversation she'd had with Draco that morning, how somehow, when they were alone, they were now on first name terms.

"See what I mean?" Said Ginny enthusiastically, "you never know!"

"Wow, it may mean something, Draco may be changing, now his father has gone, he's maybe able to show his real self now."

"I don't want to hope too much," said Hermione quietly.

"I'm low enough as it is, I don't want to depress myself even more, I'm just going to try and get on with it."

Again, they all hugged her tightly. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. Hermione opened it and there stood Professor McGonagall with Draco behind her.

"Miss. Granger, can I have a word, please?"

"Yes, Professor."

Hermione didn't like the look on Professor McGonagall's face. She was looking a bit too serious for Hermione's liking.

"Miss. Granger, do you mind if Mr. Malfoy is here for this? It may be important."

Hermione inwardly shivered. What if Professor McGonagall knew?

"No, Professor."

They entered the classroom and closed the door.

"Mr. Weasley, please pull that chair over to Miss. Granger."

Fred did, instantly. Hermione really didn't like the sound of this at all."

"Miss. Granger, please don't ask me how, but I know what has happened between you, Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley. I will not go into details, for reasons you know. However, I would just like to offer my sympathy."

Hermione nodded at the professor. Ginny put a gentle arm around Hermione.

"I have already spoken privately to these three Weasley's and Mr. Malfoy. Hermione, I need to tell you something and it looks like these four will be there for you."

Hermione's heart sped up. Ginny felt it and held her tighter.

"Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley do not know about this, neither will I tell them. They've let you down more than I'd ever think possible.

Fred, George and Ginny all scowled and nodded darkly.

"Miss. Granger, I am terribly sorry to say, that your parents are dead. They were murdered last night by Death Eaters in your house. The Dark Mark was hanging over the building. The Avada Kedavra curse."

Hermione went white. So this was why Draco had been so nice to her, he already knew!

Hermione couldn't move. Ginny gently tightened her grip. Fred and George both laid gentle hands on her shoulders. Hermione was in shock.

For maybe as long as five minutes, there was total silence. Then Hermione looked up at Professor McGonagall, white as a ghost.

"No," she said quietly. "No. Please, no!"

"I'm so, so sorry Miss. Granger."

Hermione finally let the tears go. Ginny, Fred and George held her tightly and Draco looked on, Hermione could not mistake the look of sympathy in his eyes! It was genuine sympathy, Hermione couldn't deny it!

"Miss. Granger, this classroom is not used today, you are perfectly able to stay out of lessons, and so are the four of you to be with her. You may go back to the head's dormitories, where you will have total privacy. Miss. Granger, if there's anything I can do, please, just let me know."

All Hermione could do was nod. She was numb.

Gently, Fred, George and Ginny helped her up and to the heads rooms, with Draco right behind them.

They entered the common room and instantly, Ginny helped her through the door to her room, while George conjured a hot chocolate for her.

Fred turned and looked at Malfoy.

"You know how she feels, don't you, Draco?" He said quietly. Draco nodded.

"Hermione?" Draco said gently. "If you need me, I'm in my room, ok? My password is goodness. If you need me, I'm here."

Hermione felt a slight jolt of surprise at the password, but quickly squashed it. Even if he was a good man, she had no chance, and right now, she wasn't really thinking about it.

"We'll be in the common room," said George gently, as Fred and he left.

Ginny held Hermione tightly as Hermione was finally able to fully cry. She sobbed unrestrained into her friends shoulder as Ginny held her close and stroked her back.

Hermione had no idea how long she was crying, but it felt like hours. Eventually however, she fell asleep in Ginny's embrace.

Ginny carefully moved, so as not to wake Hermione, then headed into the common room. She looked sadly at her brothers.

"This is horrible," said Fred quietly. "Do you know how much I'd love to strangle Potter and that sad excuse for a Weasley right about now?"

"I know," said Ginny quietly. By the way, thanks for coming to Hogwarts so quick when you got my owl, I just figured you should know. Hermione I know appreciates it."

"No problem," said George quietly. "The shop's closed for today, this is way more important. I guess we're both just in shock and mad!"

"Guys, I haven't told Hermione this yet, but Professor McGonagall handed me a letter to Hermione, from her parents. She told me I should read it. I was kind of reluctant at first, but she said it was important. It's really sad. It basically says that they understand the danger they're in, having a witch as a daughter who's close friends, with "the boy who lived," but they know none of it is her fault. They said they loved her so much and wouldn't change a thing for her. They'd never have had another child, ever."

Ginny could have sworn she saw Fred and George wipe their eyes.

"In Mrs. Granger's spare time, she was a dancer. She had a dance teacher named Emma Carson. She said she would love Hermione, to meet up with Emma and dance. She said if anything happened to them this year, they'd love her to follow her and her mother's dream and dance. They sent the letter to McGonagall, just encase. It's as if they knew something was going to happen. Hermione loves dancing, haven't you seen her at the balls Hogwarts has held? Did you see her in her fourth year with Krum? She was dancing really well then. If I remember rightly, Ron didn't like that much either."

Fred and George scowled again.

"Well we don't like Ron much at this moment," said George darkly. "Nor Harry, for that matter."

"What are you thinking, Gin?" Asked Fred quietly.

"Listen, guys. I think you can tell Hermione loves Draco Malfoy. I think we all can. Even Professor McGonagall. I was thinking we should do what her mother and father would want. We should contact Emma Carson. Get her to Hogwarts to teach Hermione a dance. Then, she could do it for Draco Malfoy. Show him how she feels. Show him with a dance. Not only would it make us all smile to see her dance again, but I think it would win her his heart, she deserves something!"

Fred and George nodded.

"You know, I don't think I've seen Malfoy be this nice before. It just goes to show, doesn't it? That his father was the one putting all the pressure on him all the time."

"Exactly," said Ginny quietly. "I almost feel sorry for him. Acting cruel to those he maybe liked and one he maybe loves. I say liked when describing Harry and Ron. I don't know if anyone will like them right about now."

"You could have a very good idea there, Ginny. Not only would it start to maybe help her through it a little, she'd be in the arms of the one she loves. What we think doesn't matter at all."

"I quite agree," said Fred earnestly.

Suddenly, they heard Draco's raised voice.

"Hermione, no!"

They didn't like the sound of that, so Ginny got up and ran to the door. She threw it open. Hermione was standing beside the mirror, a switch blade in her hand. She'd already sliced a small cut in her right arm.

She suddenly pulled out her wand. In a second, Ginny had disarmed her, while Draco knocked the knife to the ground. Fred and George ran in behind Ginny.

"WE love you, Hermione. Please, don't do this!"

Draco grabbed the switch blade and pocketed it. Ginny pocketed Hermione's wand.

"Give me my wand," said Hermione shakily.

"No can do my friend, until you promise on oath you won't hurt yourself. You hear?" Fred gently took Hermione's arm and healed the cut easily.

Just then, Professor McGonagall entered the common room, she had heard the last part of the conversation from outside the common room. Draco quietly handed her the switch blade. She knew what it was, instantly. McGonagall quietly walked towards the bathroom.

"Miss. Granger, I too want you to promise you will not hurt yourself again. There are those who really do care about you. Plus, you're head girl. Hogwarts looks to you. Come on, one promise and your wand will be returned to you."

Professor McGonagall stepped over and put her arms around Hermione and actually hugged her. She quietly nodded to Ginny, who pulled out the letter.

Hermione took it numbly, as Ginny wordlessly beckoned Professor McGonagall into the common room. George followed, Fred and Draco stayed by Hermione's side.

Our dearest, dearest Hermione,

If you are reading this letter, it means we can no longer be with you.

Darling, we sent this to your Head Mistress at Hogwarts, encase something happens to us. As stated above, if you are reading this, it has.

Darling, we are aware of the danger we are in, we understand. Maybe not all of it, but we know you are close friends with the boy who the dangerous wizard you've mentioned to us before is after.

Hermione, we love you more than we could say and even given this danger, we wouldn't change a thing. You always have been and always will be our special little girl.

Hermione, if you are reading this letter, there's only one thing we'd ask.

Do you remember Emma Carson who used to teach me dance? We know how much you want to dance too. All we'd ask is contact Emma and follow your dream.

Hermione, you know I showed your father how I felt through a dance. Please, for us, if there is a man you love, let him know. If you can, we would be so happy for you if you could also show him with a dance.

Darling, we love you so much and will always be there in your dreams, spirit and heart.

WE know you've always wanted to get married, so please, follow that dream too! WE love you so much and just want you to be happy.

Don't grieve for us, our dearest daughter, please. What happened happened. Just please, keep yourself safe and follow your dreams, even though we're not physically there to see them, we'll be there with you through your heart.

We're so proud of you, darling, we couldn't wish for a more beautiful daughter. Just press on for those dreams, for us!

WE love you so much, more than we could ever say in words, I'm so sorry we've left you, but it's only physically, you remember that, ok?

Love,

Mum and dad.

AS Hermione reached the end of the letter, the tears rolled down her cheeks. Ginny came over and hugged her tightly, letting her cry into her shoulder.

Meanwhile, in the common room while Hermione had been reading, George and Ginny had been quietly talking with Professor McGonagall.

Flashback.

"So, you're planning to contact Miss. Carson?"

"Yeah, but how?"

"Well, there's a phone number on a separate piece of paper Mrs. Granger sent as well, but I didn't give that to Miss. Granger, because I was sure you'd want to do something like this for her. I know how to use a phone, so I will contact her. I will make one of the rooms inside the castle password protected and keep the magic out. That way, Miss. Carson can use her Muggle stereo for her music. I will make it into a dance studio. I will also do a few more things for Miss. Granger. For example, if Mr. Malfoy will do it, I will move him into her lessons. He'll be there to protect her I'm sure of it, and that way, we'll know exactly how he feels for her. Yes, I can tell there's something there, you're right. I think Mr. Malfoy does feel the same way as Miss. Granger. This is one relationship I encourage the whole way."

"Thanks, Professor. When were you going to do those things?"

"Well, I'm going to talk to Mr. Malfoy in a moment. Miss. Granger of course does not have to go back to lessons until she is ready. I will allow Mr. Malfoy to stay with her as long as she needs him, the rest of the teachers know, they're all fine with it. Miss, Mr. and Mr. Weasley, you can stay as long as you feel Miss. Granger needs you also. I am not going to remove Miss. Granger's head girl privileges, because it keeps her close to Mr. Malfoy and it may lift her out of this, knowing Hogwarts look to her."

The two of them smiled gratefully at the Professor. Fred was at Hermione's side, but had an extendable ear pointing out into the common room, so he could hear every word. McGonagall had seen it, but had not objected. Then, Hermione had started to cry and Ginny had hurried forwards to her friend's side. After a few moments, Ginny had gently handed Hermione back her wand.

End of flashback.

A few minutes later, Professor McGonagall had spoken to Draco, and Draco agreed to move into lessons with Hermione. He was taking exactly the same classes as she was, just at different times. So it was easy just to change his schedule, so he was in the same lessons as Hermione, all the time. Ginny, Fred and George were delighted about this, it showed their theory about Draco and Hermione was almost certainly right.

A few days later, Professor McGonagall managed to contact Emma Carson. She had apporated to a Muggle phone box to make the call. Emma agreed to come to Hogwarts the very next day, to meet with Hermione and maybe start her lessons that very evening.

Draco and Hermione were definitely getting closer. No one could deny that. From that first day, they started speaking a lot, even outside lessons. Draco never insulted her, never did anything against her, he was becoming very nice to Hermione Granger, who was falling head over heals in love with him and couldn't hold it back much longer.

So, a week after they'd returned to Hogwarts, McGonagall came to where Hermione was sitting in the great hall after dinner. Ron and Harry had already left and Ginny was sitting beside Hermione, as always. Fred and George had left a night after they'd arrived, Hermione had returned to lessons on the second morning. No one asked her what was wrong; most people hardly spoke to her. Ron and Harry of course, avoided her like she had some deadly disease.

"Miss. Granger? I have a surprise for you this evening. Come to my office at five to eight, please. Just you if you like, or you're welcome to ask Miss. Weasley to come with you."

"Yes, Professor," said Hermione quietly. She was starting to look a little better, even though her grief was still fresh and painful. She wasn't crying as much, she was trying to follow her parent's final wishes.

At five to eight, Hermione walked up to McGonagall's office, the one which used to have been Dumbledore's. Ginny was alongside Hermione, at Hermione's invitation.

Quietly, Hermione knocked on the door.

"Come in," said McGonagall's voice.

Hermione pushed open the door and the first person she saw was Emma Carson, standing by the window. Hermione ran forward and hugged the young woman tightly.

"Miss. Carson? It's so good to see you again!"

"Come on now, Hermione. That was when you were in primary school! You're too old for that now! It's Emma, ok?"

"Thanks, Emma!"

The two women hugged again, Ginny and Professor McGonagall stood back, smiling slightly, not wanting to interrupt.

"So, Hermione. I hear you're in love with a man and you want to do a dance for him? Who's the lucky chap?"

Hermione smiled and blushed, but didn't answer.

Hermione quietly told Emma the song she'd like to use; Emma nodded and agreed to give Hermione her first lesson that night. Quietly, Professor McGonagall led them out of her office and down the moving staircase. Just next to the gargoyle which guarded the office, was a small wooden door.

"CD player," said McGonagall quietly and Hermione and Ginny both smiled, Hermione quickly explained in a whisper what a CD player was. Ginny was looking puzzled.

When the door opened, Hermione gasped. It was a huge dance studio, with theatre seats at the back. The dance floor was bang in the centre, perfectly visible from any one of the seats. Around it, were a water machine and a table. Smiling, Emma set up her CD player on the desk then placed her CD case beside it.

"Do you mind if I stay and watch?" Ginny asked.

"No not at all," said Hermione, giving her friend one of the first true smiles she'd given anyone since her parent's deaths.

"Professor McGonagall smiled gently and left the room. As she walked out, she spoke over her shoulder.

"Just let the door close when you're done and no one else will be able to get in without the password."

Hermione and Emma nodded.

Emma was one of the few people who knew Hermione was a witch. She did want to see some magic at some point, but only when Hermione was willing.

Emma, can I just introduce you to my friend Ginny Weasley? Ginny, this is Emma Carson, my mum's dance teacher years ago.

Ginny instantly took a liking to Emma and they smiled at each other and shook hands.

"Ok, Emma. Well, I might as well tell you the whole story. There's this man here I'm in love with, named Draco Malfoy. I love him so much I feel like I'm going crazy every time I see him! It drives me mad! The one time I shook hands with him, I didn't want to let go! It's a long story, but we used to hate each other, or so we thought, but now, we kind of don't. Well, I want to follow what my mother did and show him with a dance, just like mum did with dad?"

Emma nodded sympathetically.

"I heard about your parents, dear. Can I just say how sorry I am?"

Thanks, Emma, that means a lot to me."

"No problem, dear. Ok, so you want to show Draco how you feel through a dance? Do you know what song you want to use and when you want to do it?"

"Well that's what I was going to say. I don't want to show him until I'm ready and you feel I'm ready also, but I know what song I want to use."

Hermione told her and a few minutes later, the lesson began.

For a first lesson, Hermione worked really hard. She wanted to get her moves exactly right.

"Hermione, dear, this is only your first lesson," said Emma gently. "Don't try and rush yourself, ok?"

"Sorry," said Hermione quietly. "I guess if I'm honest, it's just because I want to get into his arms as soon as possible and I hope this dance tells him how I feel!"

"Well you've certainly picked the right song," said Ginny with a smile. "If he misses your meaning, he really is thick."

Hermione smiled at her friend for trying to boost her confidence.

Three days later.

Hermione went to all her normal lessons, and then met Emma at eight every evening in their private dance studio. They practiced for as long as Hermione wanted every day and soon she pretty much had her moves down. At the start of the verses and chorus, she caused her wand to spell out Draco Malfoy in the air, the ribbon dancing through the air as she moved. It was a very good effect.

On the fourth night, Emma asked Hermione if she wanted to do the dance in front of Fred and George and Professor McGonagall. Hermione agreed nervously and Ginny went to get them. Hermione performed without a fault and they all smiled.

"Brilliant, Hermione." Said professor McGonagall proudly. "I love it, it's very good. Just as good as your class work, in fact. Your parents would be proud."

For the first time, at the mention of her parents, Hermione smiled.

"I just hope someone else is proud," she said, but very quietly. Never the less, they all heard."

"Ok, Hermione. Do you want to head off now? I just need to pack up my things."

"Ok," said Hermione, then left.

As soon as she was gone, Emma turned to the other four.

"People, this is what I was thinking. I really don't think Hermione deserves to keep herself waiting any longer. She obviously loves Draco Malfoy, who I'd love to meet by the way, so I don't think she should wait any longer, it's not fair on her, or the memory of her parents, who just want her to be happy. Just one question though, does he feel the same?"

The others all nodded.

"Yes, Emma." Said Ginny quietly. "We're all positive he does."

"Ok," said Emma quietly. "Well, if you guys are ok with this, I think she should do it for him tomorrow night. I have a plan."

The next evening at eight, Hermione arrived outside the dance studio.

"CD player," she said and entered.

Ginny, Fred, George, Emma and Professor McGonagall were already there.

"Ok, Hermione, are you ready to give it a go?" Said Emma gently, as she, Ginny, Fred, and George all hugged Hermione.

"Yeah," said Hermione nervously. "I'm still not ready to show him yet though."

"Ok," said Emma with a smile. "No problem."

Hermione walked out into the centre of the floor, her wand in her hand. Quietly, she faced her audience.

"Are you ready and are you going to sing as well?" Asked Emma.

"Will that affect my dance moves Miss. Carson?"

Emma smiled kindly at Hermione.

"No, dear. Not at all. It might even make them better. Sing it as well, put all your heart into it, so when your man hears it, he'll know you're serious."

"Great!" Said Hermione very nervously, but excited. "I love that idea!"

"Ok, are you ready? Don't forget your wand movements too. Just perform it exactly as you did last night."

Hermione nodded and Emma pressed the play button on her CD player and the dance began. Hermione performed without a fault and got her wand movements spelling Draco Malfoy, spot on.

Don't tell me that it's no use

Love's always been my excuse

Don't tell me it ain't right

My heart is my alibi

Only U (U), U (U)

Get me acting crazy

Like I do (do), do (do)

U say U can't believe it but it's true, ooh, ooh

It's true, ooh, ooh

What do I have 2 do?

2 get the message through

How can I prove that I really love U, love U

What do I have 2 do?

2 get it through 2 U

How can I prove that I really love U, love U

There ain't a single night

When I haven't held U tight

But it's always inside my head

Never inside my bed

And it's U (U), U (U)

Bringing out the passion

In my soul (oh), oh (oh)

And I gotta have U

Don't U know, oh, oh

Don't U know, oh, oh

Love, love U

Love, love U

Love, love U

Everyone cheered as the song ended.

"Hermione, that was fantastic! Those wand movements were superb!" Emma ran forward and hugged her.

"Thanks, guys. Do you think I'm ready to show it to him yet, Emma?"

Emma just smiled.

"Oh yes," she said quietly. "More than ready. Hermione, the others are just going to help me take my stuff back to where we keep it, we'll be back in a moment."

"Ok," said Hermione quietly.

Hermione sank onto one of the seats and waited. She was really looking forward to showing it to Draco, but when would she have the courage to do it?

Suddenly, her thoughts were cut off as she felt someone sit down beside her. Before she could think, she felt tender arms slide around her and hold her gently close. Without a word, she felt someone lean into her and capture her lips with his own. Hermione knew instantly who it was, because of his aftershave. It was Draco Malfoy!

Hermione couldn't move. Draco continued to tenderly kiss her, as she sat there in shock. Eventually, she nervously put her arms around his neck. Their kiss intensified. Hermione's last thought before Draco took her into paradise with his kisses, was that Emma had never left to put her stuff away before without Hermione, they'd always gone together. Now she knew why. This whole thing had been planned. Draco had seen the dance. He'd been there under an invisibility cloak!

At last, Draco pulled away from the kiss and held her tightly to his side.

"That was fantastic, my dear Hermione. Absolutely brilliant. I loved every second of it. What do you have to do to get the message through? Nothing just let me love you in return."

He leant in and captured her lips gently once more.

"Draco? This whole thing was planned?"

Draco smiled and kissed her again.

"Yes, Hermione. It was. I love you too, I really do. You really did show me with a dance how you feel. I want to be here for you, I have wanted too for years. But…"

Hermione nodded and quieted him with her lips. The kiss was long and passionate.

"I know, Draco." She said quietly. "I know and I understand. You didn't take the Mark, did you? It was entirely your father's pressure, wasn't it?"

Draco nodded and held her tight.

A few minutes later, Draco held her tenderly close as he led her from the studio. Smiling, Emma, Fred, George, Ginny and McGonagall stepped out from the shadows. They all smiled straight at Draco and Hermione.

"Superb! Absolutely fantastic!" Squealed Ginny.

"I said you were more than ready," said Emma with a grin.

"You planned this whole thing, didn't you? You planned it for tonight."

"Yep," said Emma happily. WE figured you'd both waited long enough."

"That is so true," said Draco gently, kissing Hermione passionately in front of all of them."

"Awww that's so sweet, we're so happy for you both! Hermione, you deserve it!"

"She certainly does deserve happiness," said Draco quietly, "but I'm not sure if she deserves me."

"Well maybe not," said George with a smirk. "But it's you she wants son, so you'd better treat her right or you'll know about it!"

"Too true!" Said Fred and Ginny together.

Draco smiled and gently led Hermione towards the heads quarters.

"Brilliant!" Said Emma enthusiastically.

"Miss. Carson,"

"Please, it's Emma."

"Ok, Emma. Well, I know I echo the thoughts of the others, when I say we are so thankful to you for your help."

The others all nodded fervently.

"It was my pleasure," said Emma quietly. "It was the least I could do. I taught her mother years ago and a nicer woman you couldn't find. Hermione's more like her than I think even she knows."

Professor McGonagall stepped forward and shook Emma's hand and the other three followed suit. Emma had been introduced to Draco just before Hermione had come into the studio. She had liked him straight away, which was almost ironic, considering how much he was raised to hate Muggles. Draco returned her respect for him.

"I don't think I'm really needed anymore now, but I do want a wedding invite!"

The others all smiled, as Emma gathered up her stuff and McGonagall showed her to the gates.

Inside the head's quarters, Draco gently helped Hermione into her room. Quietly, he went into his room to get some night clothes, and then came back. Hermione was already in bed when he came in; she had given him her password a couple of days ago. Quietly, Draco slipped into her four poster, right beside her and took her close.

"Oh Draco," Hermione said happily, as he gently took her against his chest.

"I have wanted this for so long; I can't even begin to tell you!"

"So have I, Hermione." Draco said gently, leaning in and taking her lips with his. Before long, there tongues met. There was passion between them certainly but there was also pure, strong, love.

"Draco, I can't keep this to myself any longer. It may sound quick, but it's the truth. I love you, Draco Malfoy!"

Draco smiled and kissed her gently.

"I love you too, Hermione Granger! I will, forever!"

"I'll love you forever as well!" Hermione said happily, as they entered another kiss.

"I know," said Draco gently "and that makes me so happy."

"Not as happy as I am!" Said Hermione fervently. "Oh Draco, this makes me so happy! On top of everything, losing Harry and Ron, then my parents, there are those who care!"

"Yes, Hermione, there are those who care and I'm one of them. I love you so much; I wouldn't want you to get hurt, especially not at your own hand."

"Thank you so much, Draco!"

"What for," he said tenderly, holding her tightly to him.

"For loving me!" Said Hermione, tears of joy in her eyes.

Draco kissed her tenderly and gently wiped her eyes on his night shirt.

"You're more than welcome," he replied.

Draco held her close all night, and they both slept better than they had in a long time. The next day, something just as good happened for Hermione. She received two letters by the morning owl post. One from Mrs. Weasley, one from Narcissa Malfoy! Hermione read Mrs. Weasley's first.

"Our dearest, dearest Hermione.

First, I would just like to say I am so, so sorry about your parents. Ginny wrote to me last night and told us everything. I am so happy for you and Draco, really, I am! Narcissa joining the order just proves it; Draco is going to join us with you when you leave Hogwarts!

As for my son, I can't believe his actions. As for Harry, I'm shocked and ashamed. My daughter did the right thing splitting up with him; we thought he was a lovely chap. Just goes to show, eh?

All us Weasley's, including Ron, very deep down, love you so much and we'd love you to be hear with us for Christmas. Draco is, of course, invited. Harry and Ron will be here, but just ignore them. The rest of us will.

Narcissa is really looking forward to seeing the girl who's made his son so happy. Draco wrote to her this morning and she just got the letter.

See you at the burrow this Christmas!

Lots of love,

Molly XX.

Hermione couldn't believe it. Things were really starting to look up. She then turned to Narcissa's letter and her heart leapt even more.

Dear Miss. Granger,

I am really looking forward to seeing you; you have really made Draco a very happy man indeed.

I would just like to say I am so, so sorry about your parents and about our treatment of you and all Muggles and Muggle Borns over the last few years. WE are not going to excuse ourselves, Draco and I by saying it was the pressure of Lucius. Maybe it was, but we shouldn't have given into it so easily. However, now he's dead, we have nothing to fear! Voldemort may be still out there, but I really think Harry has a chance!

While on that subject, I too would like to say how surprised I am at the reactions of two people who were supposed to be your best friends, just because you're in love with Draco. Obviously a bit of jealousy going on there, don't you think?

I'm so glad you're happy and I look forward to seeing you soon at Christmas and making up to you as best I can, for my past treatment towards you. I hope you can forgive me.

Draco will treat you well, this much I know.

All the best to you,

Narcissa.

Over the next few weeks, Draco and Hermione were not able to be separated, even at meals. Professor McGonagall had given Draco permission to be seated at the Gryffindor table. Ginny was on one side of Hermione, Draco on the other.

More than once, Hermione saw Harry and Ron looking over at them, but they never said anything.

One day, Hermione took Ginny aside after dinner, as Draco gently kissed her and told her he'd be waiting in their quarters. It was the night before they were heading to the burrow for Christmas.

"Ginny, I have to be honest with you," said Hermione quietly, as they strolled through the grounds and sat down beside the lake.

"I know everything is getting better, Draco and I are so happy, but I can't lie, I do miss Harry and Ron something terrible. Even after all they've done, man I miss them! You can't lie either, you miss Harry, right?"

Slowly, Ginny nodded.

"Hermione, I wasn't going to say anything, I did the right thing, as I was so angry. He's tried to talk to me a few times, but I'm having none of it. I don't want anything to do with them until they forgive you. But yes, I do miss them, particularly Harry."

"I thought as much," said Hermione quietly. "You can't hide that from me, Gin."

Ginny smiled slightly. "So I've noticed. But until they can except that you and Draco are happy together, then I can't have anything to do with them. That's my final word."

"Thanks, Ginny. You've really been a truly loyal friend. You, Fred and George all."

"Hermione, it's our pleasure. That's what friends are supposed to be for. Particularly those who say they're your best friends. Well, with friends like those two, who needs enemies?"

Hermione nodded.

"I just wish I could have them back as my friends, just as you do with Harry as your boyfriend."

"Yes, but as I've already said, I'm not doing anything about that until they take you back, you and Draco."

"Thanks, Ginny. I'm not trying to split you up though,"

"Hermione, you didn't do anything. It was my choice, not yours, because of the way they treated you. It made me so mad, don't blame yourself, I did it totally by myself."

"Ok, thanks Ginny, hearing you say that makes me feel a little better. I did feel a bit worried."

"Well don't," Ginny answered, hugging her friend tightly.

The next morning, they headed to the Burrow for Christmas. Narcissa hugged Hermione as soon as she saw her, after hugging her son.

"Miss. Granger,"

"It's Hermione, Mrs. Malfoy."

"Ok then, Hermione, it's Narcissa. Hermione, I just want to say I'm so sorry for the way we acted towards you."

Draco leant in and kissed Hermione.

"I couldn't agree more," he said gently.

"Don't worry about it, Narcissa; I think you've both more than made up for it! Nice one on joining the order, best move you could make!"

"You don't need to tell me that," said Narcissa, smiling gently.

Mrs. Weasley hugged both Hermione and Draco.

Order meetings were taking place at the burrow, but they were all aloud in them, including Harry and Ron. The Death Eaters and Voldemort were planning to attack Hogwarts, soon.

"I am so glad I never joined his side properly," said Draco quietly, as Hermione gently took his hand.

Draco's small amount of info regarding the Death Eater tactics was actually very useful to the Order.

Before long, it was Christmas day. Hermione had bought Draco a book, "Quidditch tips for experts." Draco had given her a beautiful necklace, with a heart shaped diamond on it's chain.

"Thank you, Draco! It's beautiful!"

"Not as beautiful as you," Draco said quietly, kissing her gently.

After dinner, Draco asked Hermione if she'd walk through the garden with him, he had one more gift for her. Narcissa and Mrs. Weasley smiled, knowing what was coming.

For a while, they just walked arms around each other. Eventually, they stopped. Draco turned to face Hermione, wrapped both his arms around her and kissed her passionately.

"Hermione Jane Granger, you must know by now how much you mean to me and how much I love you, right? You must know I'd do absolutely anything for you, don't you?"

Hermione nodded and smiled at him.

"Yes, I know Draco and it's the same on this end."

Draco leant in and kissed her once more.

"I could never imagine life without you, my dearest Hermione. Never. I want you to be mine forever and I want to make sure you are."

Draco dropped to one knee in front of her and Hermione gasped. Even though she knew her answer already, she just wanted to love what she was sure was coming next.

"Hermione Jane Granger, will you do me the absolute honor of becoming Hermione Malfoy? Will you become my wife?"

Hermione had to hold back tears; his proposal was so beautifully done. She smiled as Draco pulled a small box from his pocket, containing a solid gold band, covered in diamonds. Hermione drew in a breath, and then nodded.

"Yes, Draco, the joy is mine! I love you and there's nothing I'd like better than to share your name, forever! Kind of ironic, eh?"

Draco smiled, leapt up and kissed his fiancé tenderly, as he placed the ring gently on her finger. They walked into the house arms around each other and everyone saw the ring and cheered. Hermione was sure, even Harry and Ron were looking happy for her, a little.

Later that evening, Hermione was alone in the room she was sharing with Ginny. There was a spare room now Fred and George weren't there, Draco was sleeping there. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door and Harry and Ron appeared. Hermione suddenly felt a lump rise in her throat at the sight of them. Ginny also appeared behind them.

"Hermione, we don't know what to say to you," said Harry quietly. "We feel absolutely awful; we don't know what we were thinking. WE can see how happy you are with Draco; we don't want to wreck your happiness. You're marrying him, that tells us something! Even we're not that thick, even though we've been complete and total git's to you recently. WE know what happened to your parents, Hermione, we don't know what to say to that either. You were going through such a hard time and we just abandoned you. Supposed best friends should never do that!"

Hermione stared at Harry and Ron for a second, and then nervously approached them. She realised how much she loved those two, no matter what they did to her. She nervously held out her arms and Harry stepped forward towards her. She hugged him tightly, and then did the same to Ron. Mrs. Weasley looked in and smiled.

"Hermione, we're so sorry," said Ron quietly.

"Boys, you're my best friends apart from Ginny! No matter what, I couldn't lose you forever! I care about you so much, please, won't you accept Draco and I? WE are so happy!"

"WE know," said Harry quietly. "He's been so good to you lately, maybe we were wrong to judge him so quickly."

"You were," said Hermione quietly.

"Hermione, we do except it. Because you're happy. WE just beg you to forgive us, if you can."

Fred, George and Draco appeared and Harry and Ron apologised to them, looking ashamed.

"It's not us you should be apologising too," said George quietly. "It's Draco and Hermione."

"You were complete and total git's," said Hermione quietly, "but like I said, we've been friends for too long, no matter what, I can't just walk away from you. We've been through much too much together. Just except whom I'm marrying, ok?"

"Done," said Harry and Ron together."

"It's the least we can do," said Ron quietly.

"Thank you," said Hermione quietly, and then she smiled at all of them, which they all returned.

"Merry Christmas, one and all!"

Over the next couple of months, things really looked up for Hermione Granger. Harry and Ron were back by her side, she had a gorgeous and loving man who would soon be her husband, her lessons were really going well, Ginny was talking to Harry again, and things were really pointing upwards! Hermione knew that even though they weren't there, her parents would have been pleased at how things were working themselves out.

Fred and George still were not talking much to Harry and Ron, but for Hermione's sake, they acted civil enough.

Draco and Hermione wanted to get married on Valentines Day, which Mrs. Weasley and Narcissa were only too glad to arrange. The first thing Narcissa and Draco told Hermione, was that they were scrapping all the Malfoy traditions, they met nothing to them. It was Lucius who had been the fanatic. Hermione was thrilled.

"Too right you are," she smiled. "You're marrying a Muggle Born. Lucius would love that!"

Draco kissed her gently.

"I am and I love her with all my heart," he replied.

Before they knew it, the big day had arrived. Mrs. Weasley had helped Hermione find a gorgeous wedding dress, with Ginny's help. Ginny was going to be her head Brides Maid, which Hermione was thrilled about.

McGonagall officiated the service in the Weasley's garden. Emma was there, along with all the Weasley's and Order members.

Before Hermione knew it, McGonagall had said to Draco, "you may now kiss the bride."

Draco took her close and gladly obliged.

At the reception, Hermione showed everyone the dance that had set the wheels in motion. Emma smiled as Hermione showed the wand movements, reading Draco Malfoy. She performed it just as well as she had done that night.

Harry and Ron applauded loudly.

Draco and Harry were even talking, just.

Suddenly, half way through the reception, which was also in the Weasley's house and garden, Hermione looked up from where she was standing in her husband's arms and saw a site that made her heart leap and she smiled. Harry and Ginny were kissing, passionately. Hermione nudged her husband and Draco looked up and noticed. He smiled at Hermione's obvious happiness.

Half an hour later, they headed off for their honeymoon, at the Hilton Hotel, London.

Hermione had not surrendered her virginity to him, before that night. On her wedding night, she lost it to her husband, Draco Malfoy.

Professor McGonagall willingly gave them the two weeks off school, given all Hermione had been through. Hermione could probably have taken her N.E.W.T's then anyway.

During the first week of March, Voldemort and his Death Eaters chose to strike the school. The Order had been following them closely however, due to Draco's information and the final battle was quick. All the Death Eaters were bound immediately and only Harry and Voldemort were left free. Harry was exceptionally glad that Draco and Hermione were still on Honeymoon, Hermione did not deserve to see this, neither did her husband.

Harry was badly injured, but managed eventually to bring Voldemort down, eventually killing him. The Death Eaters were all taken to Azkaban and Voldemort's body was taken for examination. Harry had to spend a month in St. Mungo's but Ginny, Ron, Draco, Hermione and the others all came to see him nearly every day.

Soon, between the famous trio, it was just like the fall out had never happened. Two weeks after Harry got out of hospital, he and Ginny were married. McGonagall officiated this wedding too, they went to Romania for their Honeymoon.

June arrived, which meant only one thing. N.E.W.T's. Ginny Potter and Hermione Malfoy had started lessons again, along with their husband's as soon as they came back from their respective honeymoon's.

As for the rest of the school, sure they asked questions, so they all told the truth. There was no point in lying.

After the N.E.W.T's were over, along with the school year, Hermione went to St. Mungo's to train as a Healer. Draco followed his secret ambition, which was to be a banker.

Harry and Ginny both wanted to be Aurors, even though Ginny had been a year behind then, after her marriage to Harry, Professor McGonagall had moved her up to their year, feeling she could cope with it. As it turned out, she could.

Hermione, to no one's surprise, achieved outstanding in all her exams. Ginny, Harry, Ron and Draco all past with good marks, but not as good as hers.

Ron joined Harry and Ginny in Auror training. Even though there wasn't much left to do, they still trained for smaller missions, which occasionally, they did.

Harry and Ginny and Draco and Hermione all bought a small cottage each to live in. Draco and Hermione were actually next door to Harry and Ginny. Ron was still living with his mother, for now in the Burrow.

All in all, Hermione Grangers year at Hogwarts, which had started so bleak and dark, ended happier than she could ever have imagined.

Emma came to visit her and Draco and Harry and Ginny often. One day, Emma came to Hermione, telling her that she had a man she was in love with, asking her for her advice. Hermione answered simply in five simple words.

"Show him with a dance."