The Great Hall looked spectacular. Flowers were everywhere and everyone was in either suits and ties, or dresses! Hermione gasped when she saw this. Draco entered with Hermione in his black wizard's robes, whereas Hermione was in a beautiful dress. Everyone scowled at him. He just didn't care. Mr. Granger gently took his daughter's arm and they followed Ginny down the aisle. Walking just behind her. Hermione knew she'd never walk down to get married, but she wanted her dad to lead her behind the bride, as it was the nearest she'd get to it. Harry was standing at the front, wearing a suit and tie like all the other men. When Ginny reached him, she quickly stood aside as Hermione came forward. Harry reached forward and embraced her.
"We love you, Hermione. It's you we're living for." Hermione managed a smile as she hugged him close.
"Thank you, Harry. You didn't have to wear a suit, it's not my wedding, you didn't have to do this to marry Ginny, you could have come as you liked, and I'm touched and all but…" Harry tenderly shushed her by kissing her cheek.
Suddenly, Dumbledore handed Hermione a piece of paper. Hermione looked at it then gasped. She was officiating! As soon as she touched the paper, she seemed to feel Dumbledore's assurance that her officiating this one would make the marriage legal. Hermione shakily faced Harry and Ginny, who smiled tenderly at her. Draco was sitting next to the Granger's in Hermione's view.
"If it wasn't for you, this could have been her one day you bastard," Ron hissed into Draco's ear. "You've ruined her life and you're going to kill her; you know she can't love anyone else but you, I fucking hope you're happy!"
Ron stood up to walk to Harry's side. Nervously, Hermione began to speak, her voice shaking slightly. Mr. and Mrs. Granger had tears of grief in their eyes, but felt great gratitude and affection for Albus Dumbledore, as well as Harry and Ginny. She would never marry, she was going to die, so not only were Harry and Ginny getting married for her final wish, Dumbledore was allowing her to officiate, as she would never say the words I do.
"We are gathered here today in the sight of these witnesses, to join two people together in the loving act of marriage. Marriage is a contract between two lovers, which binds them together for life. They are there to love, protect, cherish and respect each other until death do them part. Therefore, it is not a contract that should be entered lightly. Harry James Potter and Ginny Molly Weasley, have you both come here willingly today to join together in loving marriage?"
"Yes we have," said Harry and Ginny together.
Hermione looked down at the paper and saw a neat line in Dumbledore's writing. Say something you love about them both. Hermione thought for a moment, and then began to speak.
Harry has been one of my best friends ever since I joined Hogwarts. True, loyal and determined. Harry, I want to thank you for being there for me, helping me through this in the best way you could. Soon, I will have to say my goodbyes but do not grieve for me please? You will have each other, the eternal gift of love. This is war, but love is stronger than war! Stan strong for her, Harry. Protect her and be all she needs, for me! I love you, Harry. Ginny you have been so true and so loyal; you have not left my side once. You've been there for me to cry with, laugh with, and generally have a good time with. I could talk to you about anything and you would not judge me. I am so happy for you, I know this has always been your dream, I am so glad that for you, it can come true, even though not for me. Soon, I will have to say my goodbye's as I enter death, but Ginny, I do ask you to stand firm beside Harry, keep him strong, be there for him any time, just be his beautiful angel."
Ginny and Harry were both crying. Everyone in the Hall was wiping their eyes, except Draco, whose face was blank. "Harry, please recite your vows."
"Ginny Molly Weasley, I promise to love you, protect you, cherish you and respect you, in sickness and in health, for better or worse, for richer or poorer. Until death do us part and for the honour of love. Though we will soon lose a friend, there is nothing we can do to stop fate, so may we stand strong for her, live and love for her. I love you and I will show you that, in her name." Harry pulled a small box from his pocket and opened it. It was Ginny's engagement ring he hadn't given her before now. He slipped it tenderly onto her finger and Hermione managed to smile. Ron had the wedding rings in his pocket. It had to be the saddest wedding any of them had ever attended.
"Ginny, please recite your vows."
None of them had any idea how Hermione was remaining so calm, not breaking down. Mr. Granger was very proud of her; he wouldn't have been that brave, ever! Mrs. Granger was silently crying. It was more like a funeral. "Harry James Potter, I promise to love you, protect you, cherish and respect you. For better or worse, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, until death do us part.
In the name of our precious friend, Hermione Granger, we will stand strong. We will live for love in the midst of this war. I love you, Harry. I will show you for her honour, her memory, her name." Hermione looked down at the paper. "The rings please, Ron."
Ron pulled them out of his jacket pocket and handed them to Hermione. Hermione didn't think she'd ever have seen him in a Muggle suit; even Fred and George were in suits. She handed Ginny's ring to Harry and Harry's ring to Ginny. The two had bought them a few days ago. Neither of them had been bothered at all about price, it was doing as Hermione wanted that was important. While her Controller allowed her to live.
"With this ring, I take you, Harry James Potter, to be my lawfully wedded husband. For the honour and beauty, of the precious force called love, in the name of our friend, Hermione Granger."
"With this ring, I take you, Ginny Molly Weasley, to be my lawfully wedded wife. For the honour and beauty of the precious force called love. In the name and memory of our great and loving friend, Hermione Granger."
"I now pronounce you man and wife." Here, Hermione had to hesitate. She'd longed to hear these words so bad, now it was never going to happen. Dumbledore put a gentle arm around her shoulders. They said the final sentence together. "You may now kiss the bride."
For the next two weeks over the Christmas holidays, Hermione saw a lot of the Weasley's and Harry and Ginny Potter. Her parents also came over every day and Draco hardly left her side. Draco didn't want to admit this to anyone, but he did not understand the feelings he had begun to feel. He'd thought it was just teasing on a new level, now he wasn't so sure. Every time they kissed; it was gentle, almost tender!
One day in late January, the Granger's came to where Hermione and Draco were sitting in their common room. Draco had his arms around her, but they were actually gentle! Damn, was he falling in love with her? Surely not?
"Hermione, we have a late Christmas present for you, we'd like you to come with us?"
It was a Saturday morning, unknown to Hermione, the Granger's had been planning this for ages. "Sure," said Hermione, looking hopefully at her Controller. "May I, Mr. Malfoy?" "Sure," said Draco quietly.
"Will you come with us, Sir?" Asked Mr. Granger. Draco nodded.
"Thank you, Mr. Malfoy!" Hermione leant in for another kiss, which was just as gentle as before! Draco knew what at least one of the feelings was; pity! He was starting to pity her!
They climbed into the Granger's car. Harry, Ginny and all the Weasley's knew what the plan was, but they wanted Hermione to have a great time, they would apporate there later. Three hours later, they climbed out of the car. Hermione gasped. She knew this place.
"Do you know where we are, darling?" Asked her father gently. Hermione nodded.
"This was near where I went to school until…" Her voice trailed off.
Gently, her mother helped her from the car. Draco got out the other side. "Darling, will you close your eyes?" Asked her father gently. "Trust us."
Hermione did so. In spite of himself, Draco found himself stepping forward to take her close, gently. They walked on for a few moments and then stopped. Suddenly, Hermione heard something. It sounded like thousands of people, all chanting something. Gently, Draco guided her towards them. It was a few seconds before she realised, they were chanting Hermione Granger! Eventually, Mr. Granger told her she could open her eyes. Hermione did and nearly fainted. She clung hard to her Controller, who did not let her fall.
In front of them, fully renovated, was Hermione's old primary school she'd gone to until she was seven! Brook Comprehensive! She looked over her shoulder. All her teachers from there and her friends, including Michael and Emma who she'd seen over the summer, were running towards her!
"Hermione!" Emma shrieked, reaching her friend and hugging her tightly. "How did you do it?" Hermione looked mystified. "How… How did I do what?"
Mr. Andrews, the Head Master suddenly stepped forward. Hermione gasped again. "Ladies and gentlemen, I know as well as you do that our move to Ash don Comprehensive, after what happened to this school was not a good move. Grades dropped; children did not do anywhere near as well. I tried to be the Head there, but it just did not work for me. It gives me great joy however, that ten years later, Brook is rebuilt! Children will be starting back up here just after Christmas! I hope to see an even better education than the last time!" Everyone applauded.
"Miss Hermione Granger was one of our star students. She knew her times tables before anyone else in the class and was always first to understand things. She was in the last year by the time she was seven, when it all went wrong. Hermione, please could you come up here? Do bring your man with you as well."
Slowly, not quite believing this was real, Hermione walked up with Draco holding her close. Everyone cheered them. Mr. Andrews beckoned them up onto the stage. "Please, Miss Granger, do say something." He handed her the microphone.
"Guys, I'm not exactly sure how this has happened, but trust me, I'm as happy as the next person here, to see Brook rebuilt." Suddenly, Draco noticed that she was in tears. They were tears of happiness. He held her closer to his side. Gently, without thinking, he began to wipe her tears away. Everyone was smiling at them.
"I will be thrilled to hear of children being able to be educated here once again. I am so sorry I will not be there to see this happen. But, I do want to say, this has made me so happy, I can't even begin to tell you. I cannot go into reasons here as to why I will not be able to be here to see this, but trust me, it grieves my heart. I love you all, all my friends, my teachers, Mr. Andrews, Sir." Everyone smiled. No one was aware that Hermione was trying to say her goodbyes. No one, but Mr. Andrews, her parents and Draco.
"I hope and pray that this school picks up as well as when it happened and that your children receive their education. I love all of you; keep me in your hearts, please. I say this, because I will never be coming back this way again. I'm sorry, I cannot do it. However, I ask you to remember me. I don't know why you've asked me here today and why me, but I am really thrilled. I love you all, so much."
Mr. Andrews had in fact been told something was up, that Hermione was going to die, but he didn't know the details. That was why he'd wanted her to speak. "Miss Granger, thank you for your words. Your parents helped us to do this, rebuild this place, in your name. That is why the school's name is changing."
He handed her a pair of scissors to cut the ribbon to open the school and a small piece of paper. Hermione read it and then smiled a true smile, tears pouring down her face. Draco held her tenderly to his side, but he didn't look at the paper. He tenderly captured her lips and everyone cheered. Slowly, with trembling hands, Hermione lifted the scissors and then turned to Draco, still holding the microphone. "Mr. Malfoy, will you aid me?"
Gently, Draco took her hand and together they guided the scissors. In spite of knowing who Draco was to Hermione, the Granger's couldn't help but smile. Just then, Harry, Ginny and all the Weasley's appeared, and walked towards them from a little way away. They saw Draco guiding Hermione's hand but didn't remark it. Could there be some hope? No way! No chance! Right?
"We now declare Granger Comprehensive School, open!" Together, Draco and Hermione cut the ribbon. The cheers were deafening. Draco held Hermione tightly. He could no longer deny the feelings pulling at his heart. He could not kill her, he just couldn't. He had fallen in love with Hermione Granger, exactly what the Dark Lord had forbidden him to do. Her parents had done all this because Hermione had been going to die, Hermione was so happy, she was saying her goodbye's on a stage in front of all her old friends and teachers, the pity was killing him! Yes, Draco Malfoy was feeling pity!
A few moments later, the celebrations began. There was a huge fair, with stalls, rides, and the works. The Granger's bought Draco Malfoy his first ever ice-cream. His father had never bought him so much as a chocolate frog. Hermione had a lot of people come up to her. "My son is going to Granger Comprehensive next September," a lot of people said to her. Hermione smiled, tears pouring down her face with joy. If it wasn't a son, it was a daughter, or both.
A lot of people complimented Draco, saying that Hermione had landed herself a nice man. Hermione couldn't answer. She couldn't tell them a thing. Several hours later, they climbed back into the Granger's car to head back to Hogwarts. Cheers and whistles followed them off. Emma and Michael, along with countless others had spent a lot of time with her; Hermione had hung on to every moment, knowing it could very well be her last time with these people.
Draco was sitting next to her, holding her close in his arms. Every now and then, he would lean in and kiss her tenderly. Damn, he was in love! No question, no hesitation! He was in love with Hermione Granger, he could not kill her! He couldn't! "Tell me about the school, please?" He asked her gently as they drove.
"Yes, Mr. Malfoy." She replied. Suddenly, Draco made up his mind. That, he was going to change, tonight! No more, Mr. Malfoy from Hermione Granger's lips! His name was Draco! "Brook Comprehensive was wearing I and all my friends before Hogwarts attended school until we were seven. The education standards were high, everything was brilliant! Mr. Andrews was the best Head and all those teachers were great! I loved it there; I didn't want to go anywhere else. Then, one day, it all went wrong."
"What happened?" Asked Draco gently. He leant in and kissed her, wiping still more tears away. He was genuinely interested. Of course he would be! He'd fallen in love with this girl, this woman!"
"It got burnt down," said Hermione quietly. "One day, a group of idiots decided to burn the school down. Luckily, everyone got out in time, but it was as scary as hell! So, we moved schools, but it was never the same. We loved Brook; nothing could replace it. I can't tell you how happy I am it's rebuilt, stupid thing to you maybe, but huge for us! All the people there today were teachers, or parents of children who'd been there. How did you do it, dad?"
"We spoke to Professor Dumbledore and he helped us," Mr. Granger replied. Hermione nodded. Still smiling happily, she looked at her dad.
"Dad, I love you, I love you so much. Mum, I love you so much too. You two are my best best friends, as well as my parents! Hold on, live on, do not stop, and keep living! Remember me, live for love!"
Mr. Granger knew what this meant. Quietly, he stopped the car. Hermione got out. Draco followed. They were standing on soft grass. Hermione turned to her Controller. Mr. and Mrs. Granger were looking away. They could not watch.
"Mr. Malfoy," said Hermione quietly. "Please, you can kill me now. I'm ready to die; all my dreams have come true. Please, all I would ask, is let my parents go, unharmed. My life and my happiness are complete. Thank you for allowing me to live long enough to see them through and to say my final goodbyes."
Draco didn't move. Hermione just looked at him. Suddenly, she noticed his breathing was uneven. She took a step closer and saw that Draco Malfoy was in tears! Before she knew it, he'd stepped forward and took hold of her. Tears were coursing down Draco Malfoy's face! Before both of them knew it, they were kissing, passionately, but lovingly! There was no mistaking it! It was love! Both of their tears mingled together. Hermione staggered; she had gone weak. Instantly, Draco held her tighter. Before both of them knew where they were, they were down on the ground, holding each other so tightly, no one would be able to move them. Their kisses were fierce, filled with love and guilt.
"Mr. Malfoy?" Hermione eventually managed to whisper uncertainly.
Draco kissed her again, trying to stem his tears. "Hermione, oh Hermione I can't! I can't kill you! Damn it I love you! I have fallen in love with you, I can't hurt you! Oh God Hermione I'm going crazy, I know what he said, but oh God Hermione I can't do it!"
Hermione stared at him, shocked. "You… You called me… You called me Hermione!" She sobbed.
"Yes, because it's the name of the woman I love. Hermione, I can't kill you, damn it I can't! I need you; I love you! I mean, I really love you! Damn it you won't love me for real, that fucking Curse! I'm just your Controller, who's fallen head over heels for his victim!"
"Mr. Malfoy,"
"Oh God Hermione, please, will you stop? Stop! My name is Draco, oh Hermione please call me Draco! Mr. Malfoy is so bad; I can't believe I did that to you! I can't believe I did any of it to you! Oh God Hermione I would rather kill myself than live with what I've done! That bastard is evil!"
"Voldemort?" Whispered Hermione.
"Yes!"
Draco claimed her lips yet again, unable to stop kissing her. They were both crying hard. "Oh God Hermione I'd cure you from that thing right now, I can't stand to see you going through this anymore!"
"The only cure is marriage, Mr. Malfoy."
"I know, damn it I'll marry you! I love you so damn much I'm going crazy! Hermione, oh Hermione what can I say? I can't stand to see you so happy, saying all your goodbyes to your friends and family like that, completely at my mercy! Oh Hermione I can't take that! I can't, it's got to stop! Now!" Draco Malfoy had tears pouring down his face, he couldn't move. Unseen by Hermione or Draco, they were being watched. Two unseen figures had appeared. Dumbledore and Narcissa Malfoy.
"Let's get them into the car," Dumbledore said gently. Narcissa nodded. "I am so glad I turned to your side, Albus. Look at him! He's inconsolable! He can't do it. He can't kill her! He's fallen in love with her! Voldemort is mad! He thinks the Love Inducing Curse will squash love? Jeez, he's crazy! Look what's just happened!"
Dumbledore nodded. Quietly, he walked over and tapped Mr. Granger's window. Quietly, they both climbed out.
"He's fallen in love with her, hasn't he?" Asked Mrs. Granger.
"Yes," said Dumbledore quietly. "For real. This is his mother, Narcissa Malfoy." Quickly, the Granger's and Narcissa shook hands.
"Come on," said Dumbledore quietly. "Let's get them back. Narcissa, you'd better speak to your son."
Narcissa nodded. Quietly, they walked over to Hermione and Draco. Gently, Dumbledore and Mr. Granger helped them to stand. Both of them were crying and kissing passionately, but lovingly. The kisses stung with guilt and regret from Draco's side. Gently, they were helped into the back seat.
"How do we know she really loves him and it's not due to the Curse?" Mr. Granger asked quietly.
"She is bound to love him for life now; he's the only one she will ever love, unless a cure is found for the Curse. So far, none has been."
"Do you think he will marry her to cure it?" Asked Mrs. Granger.
"Judging by the look of him now, I'd have to say yes," Dumbledore replied.
Quietly, Narcissa opened the back door, just before the car moved off. "Draco, Hermione," she said gently. They both looked up. Draco held Hermione tighter. "Draco, my dearest son, it's alright. I've joined Dumbledore's side. I suspected this would happen; more fool Voldemort for trying to use this Curse. Draco, do the honourable thing, there's my good man. Cure her the only way you can. I don't know why they even call it a cure; it's just making the love permanent. Marry her, Draco."
Hermione hadn't heard some of that conversation, Narcissa had whispered in her son's ear the part about marrying her. Draco nodded instantly. "I love you, Draco. We will deal with Pansy, Lucius and Voldemort, don't you worry."
Narcissa turned to Hermione. "You can trust your future mother in law, Hermione. I've joined Dumbledore's side, as I said. Draco will marry you; he will take you off this Curse."
Hermione leant into Draco as he once again started to kiss her, holding her so tightly. Suddenly, Dumbledore appeared. "Mr. Malfoy, or I now believe it's Draco?" He smiled gently. "Do not worry, either of you. We will deal with any consequences of this. Well done, Draco. Glad you finally came to your senses!" Dumbledore squeezed Draco's shoulder.
"What now, Sir?" Asked Hermione faintly.
"Your father will drive you back the rest of the way to Hogwarts, then I think you should have a little private time," he smiled gently. Suddenly, the real Hermione appeared and they all knew it from what she said next.
"Is he still my Controller?" She couldn't keep the fear from her voice. Draco kissed her again, trying to dry her eyes. Dumbledore smiled.
"Only until you are married, Hermione. Then the Curse must break. You turn from Controller and victim to true lovers. It will be as if the Curse was never there. I think you can pretty much say the Curse is already broken. You are truly in love. It's obvious. I will send a note to the others, telling them what has happened. They will not bother you tonight, however. You need that time, both of you. Alone."
"Professor," said Hermione quietly. "I would like a quick word with Ginny though." Dumbledore nodded. "Of course."
Mrs. Granger ran forward and hugged Hermione. Then, Draco. Narcissa also hugged them both. She turned to the Granger's. "I will see you in Hogwarts," she said quietly. "I will meet you at the gates. It would be nice if we had a talk, I think. Seen as our children are going to marry." Mr. and Mrs. Granger looked stunned.
"We knew that was the cure, but… But…" Stammered Mr. Granger. "We didn't think it would happen," said his wife weakly. "We thought… We thought you were going to kill her, Mr. Malfoy."
"I think originally he was," said Dumbledore quietly. "But his position as Controller changed when he fell in love with your daughter."
The rest of the drive back was a blur to Draco and Hermione. The Granger's did not speak to them, just let them kiss.
"Mr. Malfoy," Hermione began. Instantly, Draco made a sign to Mr. Granger, who stopped the car and both Mr. and Mrs. Granger got out. Draco gently raised Hermione's face to look into her eyes.
"Hermione, as much as I hate to say this, I must. As your Controller, I order you to listen." Instantly, Hermione nodded. Draco hated to see that happen. He kissed her again.
"Hermione Granger, my name is Draco Malfoy. Draco, Malfoy. When we are alone, you may call me Draco, seen as I'm your Controller." Hermione remembered clearly how he'd used those words when he'd said Mr. Malfoy. This time, his voice was the kindest Hermione had ever heard.
"My name is Draco," he repeated tenderly to her. "Call me Draco." Hermione nodded. "Yes, Draco."
About an hour later, they reached Hogwarts. Draco gently took Hermione close and led her back into the castle, straight to their Quarters. Harry, Ron and Ginny were standing outside.
"Bloody hell!" Ginny breathed. "Wow, I don't believe it!"
"Me neither," said Harry quietly. Ron looked stunned.
"I bet she doesn't really love him, I bet it's that fucking Curse! Plus, how the hell did you fall in love with her you bastard? I bet you're going to kill her, I bet this is a fucking trap!" Instantly, Hermione raised her wand.
"Darling, no. I'm asking you to not do it. That was not an insult. Don't hurt him."
Harry couldn't believe it. Draco really had changed! Ron had just insulted him and he was holding Hermione back!
"Yes, Draco." She said instantly. Ginny gasped. Draco! Dumbledore, Narcissa and the Granger's suddenly appeared behind them.
"Everyone alright?" Asked Dumbledore gently.
"Sir," said Ginny quietly. "The Curse isn't broken yet, Ron just insulted Mr. Malfoy and she almost hurt him. Mr. Malfoy stopped her.
"Draco," said Draco quietly.
"Draco just stopped her," Ginny amended.
"Ok, I was wrong. It won't fully break until they marry."
"Which won't happen!" Shouted Ron, furious! "Hermione, he's just a fucking, evil bastard! He's just going to hurt you! This whole thing is a trick! All of it! He's as much a follower of Voldemort as Voldemort himself fucking is!" Narcissa suddenly stepped forward. Ron saw her and grabbed his wand.
"I think you should know, Mr. Weasley, that I have joined Dumbledore's side. I am no longer a Death Eater, neither is my son. I do understand why you don't trust it, but please, give him a chance to prove himself."
"You're both going to fucking kill her!" Shouted Ron, who was looking furious. "Hermione, he doesn't love you! Please, he doesn't love you at all! I know you're under that Curse, there must be a way to fight it?"
"Ron," said Harry gently. "The only cure is marriage." "Which won't happen! He'll never marry her! He's probably inwardly fucking smirking, bastard! We're not going to know when the real Hermione appears now, mind you, we hopefully will when she slag's the git off!" Hermione just clung to her Controller as hard as she could.
"Draco, take me in there, please! I can't stand this anymore!" Draco didn't hesitate. Gently, he helped her through the Portrait hole.
"Mr. Weasley, notice how she's calling him Draco now," said Dumbledore gently. "That would not be happening if he had not given his permission. That's part of the Curse, as I've told you before. The victim must address the Controller as he or she orders. He's obviously changed it to Draco. Did you notice all the other time it was Mr. Malfoy? Come on, Mr. Weasley, don't leave her side now."
"It is going to be hard for us now," said Ginny quietly. "We're not going to know when she's herself and when she's under the Curse, as she could very well have fallen in love with her Controller. I feel sorry for her; she's not going to know which is the Curse and which is her heart."
Dumbledore nodded. "What you do need to know is that Mr. Malfoy is going to take her as his own. He is going to marry her. For sure." "Seriously though, Professor." Ron tried again. "How do we know he's not trapping or tricking her?"
"You should have seen him, Mr. Weasley. He was inconsolable out there. He was actually in tears and he was calling her Hermione." "I'm still doubtful," muttered Ron.
"Ron, listen." Said Ginny quietly. "Even if she hasn't fallen in love with him out of that Curse, there's nothing we can do anyway. The only cure is marriage, he's going to marry her not kill her, but she'll never love another anyway." Slowly, Ron nodded.
"Ron, we know you love her, we're really sorry, but it's too late," said Harry quietly. "Trust me Ron, Voldemort will be fucking pay! For everything he's done!"
Dumbledore looked gently at the Granger's. "Are you both alright?"
"Just a bit shocked," muttered Mr. Granger. "Suppose we'd better get to know Draco a little better than." "I still don't trust him," muttered Mrs. Granger. "It's always been her dream to walk down the aisle with her father, what if he breaks her heart at the end? What if he kills her after all? I'm sorry, Mrs. Malfoy, but this is our daughter!"
Narcissa came forward and gently hugged Mrs. Granger. "It's alright, I understand." "Could you talk to him, please?" Begged Mrs. Granger.
"Yes," said Narcissa gently. "I was going to anyway. But not right now, he and your daughter need to be alone. He won't hurt her, that I can assure you of."
Quietly, Ron, Harry and Ginny headed back towards Gryffindor Tower. "What if they find a cure?" Asked Ron hopefully. "What then?" "We'll cross that bridge if we ever come to it," said Harry quietly. "Let's not go there, ok?" They fell silent. They knew there wasn't a cure for that Curse, so what was the point in speculating it?
Narcissa and the Granger's sat in Dumbledore's office, talking quietly. All of them also knew there was no other cure but marriage, Hermione would never be as she was before the Curse was placed again.
Inside their Quarters, Draco tenderly helped Hermione onto the couch. He sat as close as he could get to her and held her gently to his chest.
"Talk to me, Draco?" Hermione appealed to her Controller.
"What is it, darling?"
"Tell me what's going to happen now, tell me I didn't dream this, tell me…" Here, she paused. Draco held her as close as he could.
"Tell you what, Hermione?" He said gently.
"Tell me it's not all a trick! Tell me you won't kill me in the end!" Draco knew he was suddenly talking to the Hermione before the Curse had been placed. He looked deep into her eyes.
"Hermione, please, tell me you love me?" He said quietly.
"I love you, Draco." Hermione said instantly. Draco could feel more tears in his eyes. Had that really been her? Or that bloody Curse?
"Hermione, it's not a trick, I can't kill you, I will never hurt you, I promise! I have really fallen in love with you and I will marry you!"
For the rest of the night, they couldn't speak, just kissed. Eventually, they went up to their separate rooms. Hermione found herself missing Draco instantly, but now she wasn't sure if it was her heart, or the Curse! Damn it! She did know however, that she couldn't ever love anyone else, but she did want control of her own damn feelings!
Early on Sunday morning, Hermione awoke early. She walked into their Common Room and saw it was empty. If Draco was telling her the truth and changed the way she could address him, she had to find out. Quietly, she left their Quarters. In about ten seconds, she was already missing him! However, was it the Curse, or was it her heart? Damn it this was horrible! She had to concede however, that she was sure it was the Curse, she knew she would never love another, never could love another, but she still felt trapped!
Suddenly, she felt a gentle hand on her shoulder. She turned and saw her parents and Narcissa standing there. "Good morning, darling." Said her mum gently.
"Morning," said Hermione quietly. "It's early, how did you get up here so quick?"
"Professor Dumbledore gave us a room here last night." "How are you, darling?"
"Still feeling unsure, I don't know what's my heart and what isn't anymore, when I'm the real me and when I'm the cursed one. It's not good, I hate feeling this trapped!"
Mr. Granger hugged his daughter tightly, as Narcissa quietly headed towards Draco's and Hermione's Quarters. Draco stirred when there was a gentle knock on his door.
"Draco? It's me." Draco stood up and opened his door. He was already dressed. His mother quietly entered. "Draco, I think Hermione's parents need convincing, as do her friends. Do it tonight, will you? Propose to her, I mean? You can't keep her waiting, Draco! You have to get that thing broken once and for all!" Draco nodded. Narcissa handed him a small box. Inside it was a beautiful gold diamond ring.
"You hadn't given Pansy a ring yet, had you?"
"No," said Draco quietly. "Father wanted it to be made official only a few days before we were married." Narcissa nodded. "Good," she said quietly.
"Where is she?" Asked Draco.
"She's gone out for the day with her parents. They'll be back after dinner." Draco nodded.
"God I miss her," he said quietly.
"Not being cruel son, but now you know mildly how she's been feeling under that thing." Draco nodded.
Suddenly, there was another knock on the Portrait. Draco opened it. It was Mr. Granger. "Mr. Malfoy, Sir? Would you please come with us today? Hermione cannot go without you."
"Has she tried to hurt herself?" Asked Draco gently.
"No, but she constantly says she's missing you, Sir."
"Mr. Granger, please, it's Draco."
"Ok, Draco. Will you come with us, please?"
Narcissa smiled as Draco got to his feet to follow the Granger's. Hermione was standing just outside the Hogwarts gates beside her parent's car. Draco approached her quietly and put his arms around her, taking her close to him.
"Oh thank Merlin," Hermione breathed. Gently, Draco kissed her and then helped her into the car and then climbed in right beside her.
"Thank you, Draco. I couldn't be without you I…" Draco leant in and took her lips with his.
They went to a very nice restaurant and Draco sampled a Muggle Sunday dinner. Before which, they just drove around the countryside. Hermione did not let Draco go. He kissed her gently at least every ten seconds.
That night, in the restaurant, after their meal and Mr. Granger had paid the bill, Draco tenderly took Hermione close. "Hermione Jane Granger, please, listen to me. I can't even begin to apologise enough for allowing you to be placed under that Curse, entirely at my mercy. Hermione, I know there is only one cure for it, I no longer want you to feel like my prisoner, my victim. Hermione, I want to make you my lover. I want to allow you to love me, not sneer at it then kill you.
Hermione Jane Granger, with my whole heart, I offer you the cure. Please, will you marry me?" He pulled the box from his pocket and revealed the ring. Hermione gasped. Mr. and Mrs. Granger looked close to tears.
"Oh my God," Hermione breathed. "This isn't happening, is it? My dream? My life will not be taken from me? My Controller is letting me live? Letting me love him as I am bound to for life now?" Draco tenderly kissed her as he nodded.
"Thank you, Draco! Thank you so bloody much!" Gently, Draco slipped the ring onto her finger. Mr. Granger turned to Draco.
"Please, treat her well from now on, we beg you!" Draco extended his hand. Mr. Granger shook it, as did his wife.
"I promise," said Draco gently, taking his Fiancé close. "I promise."
The next morning, Hermione awoke to find the bed empty on the other side. Draco had obviously already left for his room. Hermione's mind was still clear; she knew that she was still free of the Curse for a while longer, due to her and Draco's actions the night before. Quietly, she got up and dressed. Suddenly, she heard a knock on her door and went to open it. She'd just pulled on her jacket. It was Ginny.
"Hey, Gin!" Hermione hugged her friend.
"Hey, Hermione! "Ginny hugged her back.
"Hey, Harry and I are going to spend Valentine's Day together, we wondered if you'd like to meet up later?"
"Sure," said Hermione happily. "I'm hoping I'll be able to see my parents for a while too."
"Yeah, we were going to ask them if they'd like to meet up with us. Mum and dad, too. Kind of like an all couples evening." Hermione smiled. Typical Ginny.
"Talking of couples," Ginny suddenly grew serious.
"Don't ask, Gin. I don't know where he is."
"Perhaps this will tell you," said Ginny, handing Hermione a small box and a letter.
Hermione opened the letter and began to read.
My dearest, dearest Hermione, Please, please believe me when I say I can't even begin to tell you how sorry I am. I feel so guilty I can't put it into words. All I would ask today, is please, please enjoy your freedom from this Curse, whatever that leads you to do today. This day is yours. It's the least I can do. If you do want to see me, I will be in our Common Room after mid-day. If not, I will more than understand. Hermione, I do truly love you. If you believe nothing else, believe that.
I hope this is not goodbye,
Draco Malfoy.
Hermione read the letter and felt tears spring to her eyes. Ginny hugged her again. "It's from Draco, saying how sorry he is and that he truly loves me. That if I don't want to see him he'll more than understand."
"Hermione, have you truly fallen in love with your Controller?" Asked Ginny softly. Hermione looked into her friend's face and slowly nodded.
"Yes," she said quietly. "Yes I think I have."
"Would you still marry him now?"
"Yes, I think I would. If he would still marry me. Gin, I'm sorry, I know you were hoping I'd say I still loved Ron, but somehow, I think I have actually fallen for Draco Malfoy."
Ginny hugged her again. "Don't worry, Hermione." Ginny almost said it's not as if we can change it, but stopped herself. Hermione would be back under that Curse in a few hours, this was truly her talking right now and Ginny did not want to lose this special moment with her friend.
"Don't you want to see what's in the box?" Ginny asked, changing the subject quickly.
"Oh yeah," said Hermione distractedly, picking up the leather box. "I'll check this out then I have to get ready to go over to find my parents."
Ginny nodded. "I'll come with you if that's ok? Just to say hi before I meet up with Harry?"
"Sure," said Hermione, smiling at her.
Draco had thought long and hard about giving Hermione that diamond heart and had come to the conclusion that there was nothing wrong with it. After all, he was supposed to be giving it to Pansy, so Pansy would not have screwed with it, encase he did give it to her. How could she know how he felt about Hermione?
Hermione slowly opened the box and revealed the diamond heart. Ginny gasped. "Oh dear Merlin! That is so gorgeous! Bloody hell, he does love you!" Hermione just stared at the diamond, not quite believing her eyes.
"Put it on!" Ginny urged her friend. "That'll look fantastic!"
Hermione reached out and touched the diamond and just as she did, her world went black, as she was spun away at top speed.
The next thing she knew, she was in a huge study. It was pitch black; she couldn't see a thing. Suddenly, she heard a high, cold laugh which made the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end. Then, came a high, cold voice.
"Well well, Hermione Granger. Straight into my trap. Draco Malfoy will get rewarded for this." Even though Voldemort knew Draco knew nothing about this, he'd decided to pretend Draco had planned this, just to make it worse. Hermione felt as though her insides had turned to ice. Draco had tricked her. He'd been planning this whole thing. No wonder he'd made love to her the night before, he wanted her to remember this whole thing, as herself! Hatred. Cold undeniable hatred exploded in Hermione's heart. Even though part of her still loved him, she put that down to part of the Curse which still had a slight hold on her. If she saw Draco Malfoy before the Curse once more claimed her, she would kill him!
"Do you know who I am, Mud Blood?"
The voice spoke again, bringing Hermione back from her thoughts. She looked up into a pair of red eyes, with slits for pupils. Harry had described this face, but she hoped she'd never see it. Lord Voldemort. "Yes," she managed finally. "I know who you are, Lord Voldemort!" Voldemort smirked.
"I'm not pleased to meet you, Mud Blood."
"Feelings mutual, you bastard!"
"Now, now. Such a temper. I think what I am going to show you next will make you think more carefully about how you talk to me." Voldemort clicked his fingers and Pansy and Lucius appeared, dragging Mr. and Mrs. Granger, who were in chains. Both looked terrified.
Voldemort smiled a cruel smile, as the Granger's were directed into the room and chained to the wall. Hermione ran to her parents and hugged them. Both were bleeding from cuts on their arms and faces.
"Hermione," whispered her mother weakly. "Please, don't do anything stupid. Just get out of here, please! We love you, Hermione, so much! Draco Malfoy tricked us!"
Pansy and Lucius smirked. Lucius was all too aware of his imminent death for his son's stupidity, but he wanted to go down at least trying to serve his master. Mr. Granger hugged her as best he could through his chains. "I say the same as your mother, Hermione." He whispered.
"Get the Mud Blood out of the way until it's her turn," Voldemort directed Pansy and Lucius, who grabbed Hermione and pulled her back. As hard as she tried, she could not struggle. Voldemort directed his wand at the Granger's. Mr. Granger first.
"Crucio!"
The sight of her father writhing and screaming in agony on the floor was too much for Hermione to take. She pulled her wand from her jacket pocket and faced Voldemort. Ignoring her, Voldemort shot the Cruciatus Curse at Mrs. Granger, who went down screaming.
"Want to fight for them, do we Mud Blood?" Voldemort's high cold voice spoke in little more than a hiss. Hermione faced him, trying not to show fear.
"A Mud Blood wants to duel with Lord Voldemort? That's got to be the stupidest thing I ever heard!"
"Only because you're so up yourself you think Muggle Burns are underneath you!" Hermione shouted, directing her wand at Voldemort. "More fool you, Tom Riddle!"
That was all it took. Voldemort and Hermione began to duel. In spite of themselves, Lucius and Pansy couldn't help but watch. Hermione did sure know how to fight, even though they would die before they admitted that.
Meanwhile, back at Hogwarts, Ginny had seen the Port Key activate. Instantly, she had run to find Harry. Luckily, she'd found him pretty quickly and as luck would have it, he was with Dumbledore! Ginny skidded up to them.
"Harry, Professor, please listen to me! I have to tell you this, now!" Both Dumbledore and Harry detected the panic in Ginny's voice. Harry and Dumbledore had just been walking back from a quick meeting in his office, so instantly; they retraced their steps, at a run.
As soon as they were inside, Ginny told them of how when Hermione had touched the diamond, it had become a Port Key and she had vanished. Dumbledore did not hesitate. He headed fast out of his office and returned five minutes later with Draco Malfoy. Dumbledore looked furious.
He pushed Draco none too gently into a chair, then produced a small bottle of perfectly clear potion. Veritas rum. Draco looked confused. Without a word, Dumbledore pored three drops into his mouth. Draco didn't stop him.
"Did you know about the Port key?" Dumbledore asked abruptly, as soon as the potion had taken effect.
Draco's eyes were blank. "No."
"Do you know anything about this?"
"No."
"You did not set this up for Miss Granger on Valentine's day?"
Draco knew he could not fight the potion, but inside, he'd gone ice cold with fear. What had happened?
"No."
Dumbledore looked straight at Draco, knowing he could not lie. Quickly, he told him the whole story. "I was supposed to give that diamond to Pansy; she came to me and asked me to do so. I did not want to, as I truly love Hermione. I gave it to her instead. I had no idea at all. I thought that as Pansy had intended me to give it to her, she would not have harmed it, encase I did."
"You did not even consider it may be a trap for Miss Granger?"
"No."
Ginny couldn't help it. As she knew Draco was telling the truth, she went over and put her arms around him and hugged him.
"Do you know where her parents are? They are not in their hotel."
"No."
Ginny and Harry were sure, that if Draco wasn't under Veritas rum, he would be crying by now. Harry stood up and weakly grasped Draco's hand. "Where was Voldemort the last time you saw him, Draco?" Now, Dumbledore's voice was gentle.
"Malfoy Manor."
"How many Death Eaters were with him?
"My father, Bellatrix, Peter."
"Thank you, Draco."
Instantly, Dumbledore looked at all of them. "It doesn't sound like Voldemort has too many Death Eaters with him at the moment, which is good. We need to get to Malfoy Manor, now! I think Voldemort may even have captured Mr. and Mrs. Granger."
Harry and Ginny didn't need telling twice. Draco was still under Veritas rum, so Ginny gave him a gentle nudge. "Come on," she said quietly. Draco also stood. Very fortunately, they passed Narcissa on the way and she accompanied them.
Back at the Manor, the Granger's were being ruthlessly tortured by Lucius and Pansy, while Voldemort's and Hermione's duel continued. So far, neither had been able to hit the other, due to shield charms and physical dodging. Bellatrix Lestrange had just arrived, so she was now watching, smirking.
Peter Pettigrew was also there, standing by the Study door. Eventually, Voldemort managed to hit Hermione with the Cruciatus Curse. She hit the ground beside her chained parents, screaming in pain. Voldemort and the Death Eaters laughed.
Suddenly, there was a crack as Dumbledore, Harry, Ginny, Narcissa, Ron and Draco appeared. As soon as Hermione saw her Controller, she backed up against the stone wall, close to her parents.
"You bloody bastard," shouted Mr. Granger, through a bleeding mouth. "You tricked us and our daughter, you never truly loved her, you git!" Voldemort laughed.
Draco couldn't move. Dumbledore was holding him gently back.
Lucius was glaring at his wife. "You joined their side, you bitch! How could you?" The next second, husband and wife were also duelling.
"Hermione," said Mr. Granger quietly. "Now it's my turn to speak and yours to listen. We want you to live on and be happy, you understand? No matter how that happens, your happiness is vital to us. You will survive this tonight, you must. We love you so much, Hermione."
Then, it happened. With a cold, merciless smile, Voldemort pointed his wand straight at Mr. Granger and yelled those words. "Avada Kedavra!"
Hermione couldn't move. She was rigid with shock. Her father's body hit the floor as his eyes closed. An expression of love blazing in them. Hermione didn't even wait. She charged straight for Voldemort, but Dumbledore got there first. A second later, Dumbledore and Voldemort were duelling. Harry grabbed Hermione and pulled her back. Draco, who was now free, ran to restrain Pansy, tying her up easily. Bellatrix and Peter were shocked. They didn't know what to do without Voldemort's instruction. Ginny stunned them both, just as Narcissa managed to stun Lucius. The appearance of Dumbledore had shocked them, which gave her just enough time to do it.
Suddenly, Voldemort meanwhile, pointed his wand over her shoulder and yelled the killing curse for the second time. He easily hit his helpless target. Mrs. Granger's body joined her husband's. Harry and Ginny both ran forward to hug Hermione, who was inconsolable. Suddenly, Dumbledore flicked his wand, causing a huge red hot streak of something to hit Voldemort square in the heart. He fell to the ground, screaming in agony. Harry could not stop himself. He raised his wand, looking down at his writhing enemy, hatred filling his heart.
"Avada Kedavra!"
The flash of green light hit Voldemort in the back of the head and instantly, he was still.
Dumbledore kicked aside the stunned Death Eaters and quickly approached the others. Hermione was shaking, though they strongly suspected this was out of anger and grief. Gently, Ginny and Harry took hold of her, as Dumbledore seized Pansy. Draco also grabbed her. Narcissa was also aiding Hermione. With a crack, they apporated back to the Hogwarts gates, then walked fast up to Dumbledore's office.
