Without a word, Dumbledore tied Pansy to the chair, and then prepared to revive her. Before he did, he poured three drops of Veritas rum into her mouth. Before he could do anything else however, Hermione found her voice. She looked Draco straight in the eyes, her anger obvious. Ginny grabbed her friend to hold her back.
"You fucking, Death Eater bastard! You tricked me! Me and my parents! You got them killed! You had this whole thing planned, didn't you, Malfoy? God this feels so bloody good to be free of you, I can speak my mind and insult you to high heaven!"
She pulled off her ring and chucked it at the back of Draco's head. It connected with the side of his face. Narcissa didn't stop her. She couldn't. She'd never felt more sympathy for anyone. "Why did you make love to me last night you bastard? Because you thought I'd be dead today, didn't you? Whatever little of a conscience you've got, for your dead Master, you wanted to feel you were free of me, right? How much did you laugh when you took my virginity? How much were you gloating inside? Good acting, Malfoy! Those tears had me convinced! May you burn in hell! I hate you with all in me! I've lost my parents; I've lost my chance to love, and soon I'll be begging for you again! You bloody know it, damn you! Well, just know the truth, while I can give it, before I become your prisoner once more and you pretend to love me! Why don't you just kill me, you Death Eater's son!"
Hermione turned and yanked open the door, ready to head fast from the office. Dumbledore did not stop her, although his sorrow was obvious. Draco looked as though his heart was literally about to break. Even though he had been expecting this. It hurt him so much. He knew he truly loved her, but he could not expect her to love him in return. When she was back under the Curse, he would marry her, but he would hate himself for the rest of his life. Right on cue, Hermione turned and looked back, just as she ran from the room, tears pouring down her face.
"I hate you, Draco Malfoy. I hate you so much!" Hermione had left too quickly to hear Draco's reply, as the tears came from his eyes.
"Hermione, I'm so sorry. I love you so much!" Narcissa quietly came over and put her arms around Draco. He could not hold back his tears of sorrow and pain. He knew it was his entire fault. Even Ron came over and grasped Draco's shoulder. "I knew she'd think it's a trick," he sobbed. "I'm not surprised and I can't say I blame her! Why the hell didn't I check that diamond? I was so stupid! "Gently, Dumbledore touched his arm.
"Don't worry, Mr. Malfoy. We have captured Miss Parkinson, under the effects of Veritas rum; she will tell us all we need to know."
Narcissa and Ron helped Draco into a chair, as Dumbledore turned to face Pansy and revived her. Harry and Ginny were glaring at Pansy as she tried to sit up, but found she could only go so far because of the ropes. Her eyes were blank and glazed over, the effects of Veritas rum. Dumbledore didn't hesitate.
"Are you Pansy Parkinson?"
"Yes."
"Did you intend Draco to give you that diamond heart? If not, then who was the intended target?"
"I did not intend Draco to give it to me. The Dark Lord schemed a brilliant plan, where I would go to Draco with the diamond and say I really wanted to see him on Valentine's Day. I told him I'd already bought the diamond; I just wanted him to give it to me on the day."
"But you knew he wouldn't?"
"I and the Dark Lord were both certain that he'd fallen for the Mud Blood Granger. This was our way of testing to see if it was the truth or not. Give him the diamond, say I wanted him to give it to me on Valentine's Day and then see if he did give it to me or Granger."
"What did you do with the diamond before you gave it to Draco?"
"Because I and the Dark Lord both, were sure he was going to give it to Granger, I changed it into a Port Key that would take the first person to touch it to the Dark Lord. We were sure it would be Granger and sure enough it was."
"What about Mr. and Mrs. Granger?"
"The Dark Lord wanted to make it worse for the Mud Blood, so he ordered Lucius and I to capture the Mud Blood's parents the night before Valentine's Day. So, we did as he asked."
"What if your plan had succeeded?"
"The Dark Lord would have given me his Mark! He said that if all went well, he would make me a Death Eater! But we failed! Potter killed him!"
"What of Lucius Malfoy?"
"The Dark Lord said he was going to kill him."
Harry smirked. Voldemort had really tried this time and Harry had finished him off once and for all. It felt great.
"Do you truly love Draco?"
"No! I hate him! I'd hate anyone who can fall in true love with such filth as a Mud Blood!"
Draco clenched his fists and Harry gently touched his arm, while trying to hold back his own anger. Ron looked as though he could murder Pansy there and then as well. Ginny was standing by the door, silent tears running down her face. She felt absolutely awful for her friend. She wasn't sure what to do. Quietly, Narcissa came over and put an arm around her. Harry slowly came over and took his wife close to him.
"Would you still want to be a Death Eater now?"
"Yes! I would do anything for the Dark Lord's memory! I will serve his name as long as I live!"
That was all Dumbledore needed. He raised his wand and sent a silver shadow through his window and out into the night. He then looked back at Pansy; disgust evident on his face. "I think you know where you and your Colleagues are headed, Miss Parkinson." Pansy made no reply.
A few minutes later, there was a sharp wrap on the door and three Ministry Officials appeared. Scrimgeour had since decided to help Dumbledore, so he would send Officials whenever Dumbledore called. These three were Aurors. "I think you will find if you go to Malfoy Manor, Lucius, Bellatrix and Peter stunned in the Study. This Death Eater, Pansy Parkinson is also headed for Azkaban. I have just questioned her under Veritas rum. She has told me all I need to know." The three Aurors nodded.
"Also, Mr. Malfoy here has no charges against him. He is no more a Death Eater than I am."
One of the Aurors took Pansy's wand as the other two untied her. She was tightly chained to one of the Aurors, who left straight for Azkaban while the other two headed for Malfoy Manor.
"Draco?" Said Dumbledore gently. Malfoy looked up. However, before Dumbledore could say anything, they all saw a red light coming from one of his desk draws. Quietly, he opened it. The parchment containing the copy of Page fifty of Hermione's book given to her by Snape was flashing red! Dumbledore instantly grabbed it and read the text aloud to the others.
Meanwhile, Hermione walked fast back to hers and Draco's quarters, feeling sick to the stomach. She could not believe what had just happened. She had just lost her parents, killed by Voldemort himself! Also, it turned out to all be a trick and Draco had planned the whole thing! Hermione hated Draco Malfoy at that moment. If it wasn't for the fact that soon the Curse would once again claim her, she would bloody kill him! Slowly and painfully. But she couldn't, because when the Curse claimed her back, she would be longing for her Controller and would die without him! She walked quickly into their Quarters, ran into the bathroom and threw up into the toilet. Her heart was thumping out of control. She had never felt worse in her life. Grief she knew would come soon. It still hadn't quite sunk in yet. The worst part was she had to marry that man! Unless, of course, he was going to kill her after all? Yet another trick? It wouldn't surprise her at all anymore.
Or, maybe he'd just leave her there. Not come back at all and allow her to torture herself to death, because of the Curse. Maybe he'd find that more entertaining! She fucking hated Draco Malfoy! Suddenly, as she left the bathroom, she saw a sight that made her blood run cold. A copy of Advanced dark Curses, spells, potions, was lying on the couch. Hermione went white. Hers was in her room disguised as a potions bottle. She'd seen it only a few days ago! So that had to mean… She didn't even want to think about it. Draco had been given a copy! Suddenly, she noticed something else. The book was flashing red! That meant it had been updated! Hermione hardly dared believe it! Slowly, she approached the couch. Part of her was very reluctant to touch it, encase Voldemort or even Draco had cursed it to prevent just that. However, when she did eventually dare touch it, nothing happened at all. She picked it up and sat down on the couch, opening the book to page fifty, where the red light was brighter than ever. The text was huge, right at the top of the page.
UPDATED! CURE FOUND FOR LOVE INDUCING CURSE! Her hands shaking, Hermione began to read.
After almost a century of round the clock research, a cure has finally been found for the Love Inducing Curse! Only the Controller can administer it, however, as of yet. This may not look like very powerful magic, but it is. The Controller must hold the victim close and start to kiss them gently. There must be true love in every kiss. No passion, no lust, pure love. This is why it may seem hopeless for a victim; because the Controller has to truly love them for this cure to work. The Controller must then take a glass of the liquid the Curse was first administered in, if it was given as a Potion. If the Curse was given as a spell, the Controller must flick their wand. Either way, while giving the victim the liquid, or flicking their wand, the Controller must say the following words exactly as written and mean them with all their heart, while gently still kissing their victim, in between administering the liquid, or waving their wand over the victim's heart. Words: "I love you truly and with all my heart." (Full name of victim) "As a result of this, I hereby free you from the Love Inducing Curse. You are no longer my victim. My final order to you, do as you wish, live freely, be happy." There is, however one symptom. The victim will shiver a lot, as the Curse is lifted from them, so will need to hold tightly to their Controller. They may also feel weak, but this will not last long. The victim of course cannot ask the Controller to do this; it is entirely the Controller's choice.
Hermione sat back on the couch and let the tears roll down her face. She could not believe the predicament she was in. Her parents, dead. Hating the man she thought she loved. Even though part of her still did, she put that down to still having the Curse on her. There was a very small part of her that was truly regretting those words, although she guessed that was also the Curse slowly starting to take effect once more. The simple truth of this was, no matter how much Hermione tried to hide it, that she was, once more, at Draco Malfoy's mercy.
Miss Grey may be a while," said the receptionist, glancing down at a piece of parchment. "Would you like to wait?"
Instantly, Hermione nodded. Dumbledore instantly did the same. "Thank you," he said, "we will do just that."
The receptionist nodded. Quietly, the group took seats in the waiting room which at this time of night was quiet. Hermione glanced at her wrist watch. It was one thirty in the morning, on the fifteenth of February. Yesterday had sure been a long day and so much had happened! So much for wanting to be herself for it! Now, she truly was herself, but at a very heavy price. She reached forwards. Draco saw what she was doing and instantly reached towards her. She grasped his hand tightly, Draco gently squeezed back.
Ginny was sitting on Hermione's right, Dumbledore opposite the three of them. Suddenly, Hermione released Draco's hand and looked at the third finger of her left hand, trying to hold back tears. Ginny saw this first and held her friend close. Draco came close on her left and did the same. Hermione could have sworn she suddenly felt Draco slip something into her pocket. Hermione tried to pluck up the courage to say something to her ex Controller, but now she was truly free forever, she wasn't sure how. She was feeling an odd prickle of what she recognized straight away as fear. She was now a little afraid of him. Now, he had something else at his mercy and it wasn't her as a victim. It was her heart.
She didn't know what to do. She knew she had really fallen in love with her Controller, but how could she tell him? What if he now wanted to be free of her? Free of this whole thing to find someone else to truly love? As she had when this whole thing had begun? Could she go back to loving Ron after this? She was sure she could not and if Draco decided to forget this ever happened, she didn't know how she would cope.
All these thoughts whizzed through her mind and there was nothing she could do to stop them. She only hoped that Draco wasn't looking into her mind at this moment. Very cautiously, she leant closer to Draco. Ginny released her, smiling slightly. Draco gently put his arms around Hermione, who wanted to shout, don't do it unless you really love me like I love you! But she knew she couldn't. She found her head resting on Draco's shoulder, as he gently pulled her against him. This was paradise. She knew now, this was where she wanted to stay forever. But could she? Would her ex Controller allow that? Merlin, her heart was truly at his mercy! She hated it.
Gently, she touched Draco on the shoulder, making him turn his head. In a flash, she'd leant in and captured his lips. By saying, "that was just encase," before they'd left for the hospital, she had meant just that. Encase he wants to be free of this whole thing, the way I once did. Even though he loved her truly, he had to have done for the cure to work. He wouldn't have loved her at all if it hadn't been for the Curse. The kiss deepened.
Hermione felt Draco's tongue gently touch hers, the kiss itself seeming to be trying to tell him how she felt for him. Her heart's desperate cry. Dumbledore and Ginny were both smiling. At last, they broke the kiss. Hermione looked into Draco's silver grey eyes and literally felt her heart flip in her chest.
"D D Draco?"
Tenderly, he brushed some hair back behind her ears and looked straight into her eyes. "Hermione?" He said gently. Hermione's heart was pumping at about one million beats per minute! God she was in love! No questions, just facts!
Hermione wanted to tell him she loved him so much and would do anything for him to forgive her for all she'd done and marry her! Give her back the ring! But again, her courage failed her and she said the first thing that came into her head. "Thank you for setting me free."
Damn, damn!
Draco held her close against his chest. "You're more than welcome," he replied, softly.
Hermione could feel tears in her eyes. Why couldn't she just tell him the damn truth? Why was her courage not letting her do it? Gently and tenderly, she felt Draco wipe them away. Her head hit his shoulder, as she freely let them go. It wasn't just Draco. Her parents, who had died thinking Draco was a traitor. They would never know the truth. The way they'd died with her helpless to stop it. Her wanting to give anything to have that ring back on her finger. But Draco still had it and she dare not ask him.
Draco held her tightly but tenderly against his side, while she let out all her grief and frustration. She didn't think she'd ever be free of this, she couldn't be, because she truly loved her Controller! The only way she would be completely free and happy, would be to marry her Controller! The thing she was sure at the beginning would never happen! Well, there was a chance it wouldn't happen now, but for a totally different reason. Her big mouth. But what if she hadn't chucked the ring at him? Would Draco now have asked for it back? Damn this was killing her! Draco quietly passed her some tissues, but continued to hold her as she tried to dry her eyes. Draco conjured some more with his wand and started to tenderly do it for her, as her hands were shaking. Dumbledore and Ginny were both looking very touched by Draco's manor towards his ex-victim. The woman they were sure he now loved. In fact, they knew it. They knew also what Hermione was thinking and what she really wanted to say to Draco. Ginny wished there was some way they could help her out. However, she knew there wasn't. This had to be between Draco and Hermione alone. Sure, Ginny would be there to support them, but she could not say anything. That was Hermione's job.
At that moment, a door opened to their right and Charlotte Grey appeared. Instantly, Dumbledore stood to shake her hand, as the others followed suit. Charlotte needed no explanation, she remembered Hermione from months before. Hermione grasped her hand and the Healer looked into her face. She seemed to know just from the way Hermione was looking at her. Her eyes seemed clearer and she was holding her X Controller's hand. Without a word, Charlotte led them into the test room.
"Who would you like to stay with you, if anyone, Miss Granger?" Asked Charlotte.
Hermione pointed at Ginny and Draco. "Do you mind, Professor?"
"Not at all Miss Granger. In fact, I think you'll be ok from here, you're in good hands," he smiled at Draco. "I'm going to head back to Hogwarts."
"Thank you for your help, Sir."
"No problem Miss Granger. I'll be in my office if any of you need me. Draco knows the password."
With a pop Dumbledore disapporated. The first time Hermione had been on this test table, Charlotte had had to help her up. However, before the Healer could move, Draco stepped forward and gently lifted Hermione onto the table, so she was lying on her back, with her head on the pillow. Charlotte and Ginny both smiled.
"Thank you, Mr. Malfoy," said Charlotte quietly.
"Miss Grey," "It's Charlotte, Miss Granger."
"Ok then, it's Hermione. Charlotte, after the test is done, may I talk to you, please?"
Hermione didn't know why she trusted this Healer to help her, but she had been so kind to her before, now she needed a woman's advice, besides Ginny's.
"Of course, Hermione."
Quietly, Charlotte drew out her wand. Ginny was on Hermione's right, Draco on her left, Charlotte at her head.
"Charlotte," said Hermione quietly. "Please may I see the result first, this time?"
"Of course," said Charlotte gently. Charlotte began to wave her wand over Hermione's heart. Finally, she rested it on her chest and held it still. The wand tip flashed yellow and two words came out of the end, which Charlotte turned so only Hermione could see. No Trace.
For a few seconds, Hermione couldn't move. "Are are you sure?" Charlotte smiled. Hermione showed the result to Ginny, who squeaked. Hermione leant close to her X Controller. Draco lowered his head and for some reason that even now she wasn't sure of, she whispered straight into his ear.
"No trace. I'm free. Thank you so much!"
Draco gently hugged her close.
"Did you still want to talk to me?" Asked Charlotte gently.
"Yes please, Charlotte."
Gently, Draco released her. Ginny walked close to Hermione as Draco headed out of the door to wait outside.
"I'm going to head back to Hogwarts too. I know what this is about. Hermione, have a good night, won't you?" Hermione couldn't help but smile at her friend. Ginny walked out and pulled the door shut behind her. "I'm going back to Hogwarts, Draco. I'm sure, in fact I know, you two will be fine."
"Ok," said Draco quietly, as Ginny disapporated.
"How can I help you?" Asked Charlotte gently, the moment the door was closed. Hermione was still lying on the table.
"Have you read the book?"
Charlotte didn't need to ask which book Hermione was referring to. "Yes. I read it as soon as it started flashing red."
"So I take it you know what's happened?"
"Yes, Draco has cured you. I can tell that from the test result."
"Charlotte, I don't know if you'll get cases like this after mine, but I have to tell you the truth. I think, no, I know, that I have truly fallen in love with my ex Controller. Yes, the man who was so cruel to me, sneered at me the last time, him. That man. Draco Malfoy." Charlotte did not seem at all surprised.
"That's what I wanted to check with you, Charlotte. I saw the wand said no trace, so it's true, right?"
"Yes, you're cured. A wand cannot lie."
"So does that mean…"
"Yes. If you are still feeling love for Draco, that's got nothing to do with the Curse, that's your heart."
"I really didn't want to hear that."
"Why not?"
"Because I'm terrified that Draco will want to be free of this whole thing forever. As I did when this whole thing began and Draco wanted to kill me. I wanted to just be myself."
"Miss Granger, I mean Hermione, Draco could have been free of you any time he wanted. He could have just killed you. But I think part of him, his conscience, couldn't all the time. You are both only young, I don't think he could have ever pulled it off. No matter how evil he seemed."
"I'm sorry, Charlotte, I have to disagree with you there. He could and would have done it. He was engaged, what if he still wants to marry her, or move on to another woman? I loved another man before this all started, but now…"
"You have fallen in love with your ex Controller."
"Yes. However, I don't have the courage to tell him, just encase like I said, he wants to move on."
"You're quite sure you don't want to try to live again as yourself, in control of all of you? To try and find love that has nothing to do with this Curse?"
"I thought about that long and hard and come to the conclusion that I can't. Draco Malfoy has really stolen my heart; I can't get it back. My heart won't let go."
"So, are you asking me what I think you should do?"
"Yes. Please, I need some advice."
"Ok, well the first thing I would say is, you need to tell him the truth, as long as you're sure of it yourself. No matter how he may react, you have to tell him. At least if he doesn't like it, you can start over as you."
Hermione nodded.
Quickly, she told Charlotte hers and Draco's whole story, right up to the occasion when she had yelled at Draco. Exactly what she'd said and how she'd chucked her engagement ring at the side of his face.
"Wow," said Charlotte ten minutes later. "That's quite a story. I'm so, so sorry about your parents. It's such a shame they died thinking Draco was a traitor. They'd still want you to be happy though, just like your father's last words stated."
Hermione nodded. "I know." She showed Charlotte her left hand, where a ring was missing. "I want that ring back on my finger so much it hurts! Why did I do it!"
"I've got it," said Charlotte quietly. Write him a letter." Hermione nodded. "Thanks, Charlotte. I don't know why I didn't think of that, but it could be a long one."
"That's ok, you don't have to rush on paper, and you can tell him everything."
Charlotte handed Hermione a thick roll of parchment a bottle of ink and a quill. Hermione sat up on the table and began to write. When she had finished five minutes later, she handed it to Charlotte. "Please would you read it?"
"Are you sure?" Asked Charlotte gently.
"Yes, please." Quickly, Charlotte read it and then nodded.
"I think that sums it up perfectly."
"Thank you, Charlotte. Are you in a hurry tonight?"
"None at all, Hermione. Every patient gets as long as they need with me."
"Would you mind asking Draco to come in? I'd like him to read it now."
"Of course," said Charlotte quietly, as she opened the door and called Draco through. He was looking concerned as he came through the door.
"Sorry I took so long, Draco. I…" Draco silenced her by laying his hand on her arm.
"Draco, please would you read this?" She handed him the parchment. Draco took it without a word, his other hand still tenderly resting on her arm.
"Thank you, Charlotte." Said Hermione quietly.
"No problem. In fact, I'm going to head out now. She whispered in Hermione's ear. "Have a good night."
Hermione had to smile. Charlotte and Ginny both were so sure this was going to work out for the good, so was Dumbledore. But what if they were wrong?
"Take your time, ok? This room will not be used again tonight, until it clears. There's no time limit at all, ok?"
"Thanks, Charlotte," said Hermione again, as Charlotte left and closed the door.
It's just you and I now Draco, Hermione thought. Please say what I hope and pray you will?
Still with one gentle hand on her arm, Draco unfolded the parchment and began to read.
My dearest, dearest Draco. First of all, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for setting me free. Second, I want to apologise from the bottom of my heart for the words I spoke. I know it wasn't a trick now. My parents may have died thinking you tricked us, but I know otherwise and I want to prove that. Draco, I love you so much it hurts. I don't want to even think about life without you. What started off as a Curse, where I hated you and wanted to love another but couldn't, has turned to where I love you with all I am and could never even dream of loving another. I have fallen in love with my X Controller. Draco, being totally honest, I would give anything to have that ring back on my left hand. I would give anything in the world to be Mrs. Hermione Malfoy. However, I know that decision is entirely yours. Like all the ones you made while I was your victim. You were my Controller. Well now you still are. You are controlling my very heart. However, I will not beg you to give me the ring back, to give me your love, now a cure has been found. Draco, I will more than more than understand if you wish to be free of this. If you wish to find yourself a woman who you will love from the very start. Now there is a cure you have very kindly used on me, please don't marry me to save my heart. If there is one, or could be one you feel you'd love from the start, go to her, Draco. I will move on in time. All I would ask, is please remember me. Remember what we had, even if it was because of a Curse. If however, you feel we can stay together, but you only wish to date for a while, I will understand that too, even though it will really hurt after how close I came to having my dream come true. Marriage. I will wait until you are ready to propose again, however long that may take you. Draco, please do what you feel is right. You have cured me, this is the real me talking, there is no Curse in the background any longer. The decision is entirely yours; I can't force you into anything. All I can do is tell you that I truly love you and would love to be your wife, still. Nothing what so ever to do with any curse. As I said, I will move on in time, if you choose to do the same. Do what your heart is telling you. I will do that in time, even though right now, my heart won't let go.
The next thing Hermione knew, she felt Draco's arms come up around her, as he lifted her tenderly from the table with absolute ease. He held her close against his side, as he lowered her onto her feet. Suddenly, Hermione felt Draco's lips against hers! The kiss was gentle and tender, but also passionate. Draco held the kiss, as he gently took Hermione's left hand. He directed it into her own pocket. There, Hermione felt the ring under her fingers! Still holding it, Draco brought her hand up. Gently, he took the ring from her hand. He released his embrace, but kept his lips on hers. With his right hand, he raised her left and placed the ring back on her finger! Hermione couldn't help but draw in a breath, even though their lips were still locked.
Draco put his arms back around her and requested entrance to her mouth with his tongue, which she gave willingly. Hermione could not believe this was happening. Still kissing her passionately, Draco held her tightly and with a crack, they both disapporated. Seconds later, they were standing just outside the Hogwarts gates. Draco gently touched them with his wand and they opened. Tenderly, he guided his Fiancé through. The gates softly shut behind them. Hermione could not think straight. Draco was passionately kissing her and holding her so gently. Plus, he had just given her the ring back! Did this mean what she hoped it did?
Still holding her close, Draco led them into the castle. Everything was quiet. Still tenderly kissing her, he led her up towards their Quarters. Quietly, he spoke the password and helped her through the Portrait Hole. Then, he tenderly lifted her up in his arms and carried her through to his room. He carried her through the door and held her tight against his chest. Hermione wanted to speak, but didn't know what to say. He released her, just long enough for them both to take off their clothes. Then, he took her close and lifted her into bed.
He then got in beside her and took her close, instantly beginning to kiss her gently. After a while, he raised her left hand and held it up so they could both see the ring. Hermione was almost in tears. She squeezed his hand tightly. Gently, he continued to kiss her, as she raised her right hand to touch the beautiful diamond ring. She couldn't believe it was back on her finger! Finally, she put her arms around Draco and held him tightly, as finally, he spoke.
"I love you so much, Hermione Jane Granger! I could never love another, dear one, you are dreaming. Curse or no curse, I have fallen truly in love with you, else I could not have freed you. Hermione, it was so hard for me to decide what to do, part of me was desperate not to free you, just so you would marry me! But I knew that was wrong, I could never do that to you! I am not the only one with a heart."
Hermione held Draco as tightly as she could.
"I love you too, Draco Malfoy! I have truly fallen in love with you; I could never ever love another in my life! At the beginning when this all started I thought I could, but not anymore!"
"Darling, I could never just date you. I think you deserve more of a commitment from the one who loves you with all his heart, especially after what I just put you through! Cure or no cure, Hermione I want to marry you, because I love you so damn much! Also, about forgiving you, I have nothing to forgive you for; you're the one who should be forgiving me."
"Oh Draco! Thank you so so much! I don't know what to say! I…"
"Say nothing, Hermione. You don't need to. Please, just let me love you?"
Hermione sank into his arms as they started to kiss once more. Hermione clung to him and could not let go. Even though she'd planned to wait until marriage, right about now she didn't think she could. She loved Draco Malfoy so much and knowing he loved her just as much back, was making that very difficult to do. His tender and gentle kisses were driving her crazy and she still thought his voice was very sexy. Eventually, she pulled back.
"Draco, I have something for you. Hang on." Quickly, she slipped out of bed and back into her room. Quickly, she pulled out one of her shortest night shirts; she had only worn before when she was alone. It hardly covered anything. She'd let Draco's door swing shut, which meant she'd have to knock, as she didn't know his password. Quietly, she walked back to his door and knocked. After a few seconds, Draco opened it. "Oh, dear sweet Merlin," he breathed. Hermione, do you know how tempting that makes you?"
Hermione smiled at her Fiancé. "Then take me, Draco. You are the man I am going to marry, so it's fine."
Draco slowly took her against him. He was completely naked. "Oh dear Hermione Granger, soon to be Malfoy, I love you so much! I love you with all I am!"
"Then you can prove it," she smiled at him.
"Are you sure?" He asked tenderly.
She didn't reply, just kissed him gently. Soon, it became more passionate. Draco lifted her up in his arms and carried her back to the bed, as the door clicked shut. Gently, he lowered her onto the bed and got in beside her once more. Gently, he took her close against him as once more they started to kiss.
"Darling, are you absolutely sure? I am more than happy to wait until our wedding night."
"Draco, as happy as I feel right now, this might just as well have been our wedding night."
Gently, Draco removed the shirt from her body. He looked at her naked form and drew in a breath. "You are so damn beautiful," he whispered.
"Thank you, Draco."
Hermione's heart was still in a lot of pain from the loss of her parents only a few hours before. However, her dad had wanted her to be happy, so she was trying to do as they asked. She was sure that the grieving process hadn't even started yet. Right at that moment, she was feeling pure joy at Draco's decision and compassion. Hermione suddenly felt Draco gently take hold of her breasts. Hermione was in pure ecstasy. Gently, he began to suck her left breast. Hermione clung to him as hard as she could. Draco gently pushed her onto her back and kissed her lips. Hermione began to touch him all over his body.
"Hermione," Draco gasped. "Hermione, this is your last chance to turn back. Otherwise it'll be too late." Hermione didn't answer. She pulled Draco on top of her. Both of their hearts were beating very fast.
Gently, they continued kissing each other's lips, as Draco gently pushed into her. They moved slowly and gently, both breathing hard.
"I love you, Hermione Jane Granger!"
"I love you too, Draco Malfoy!"
Eventually, they both came to the edge and clung to each other as they both experienced pleasure beyond words.
"Oh, Draco!" Hermione gasped, as she lay in her Fiancé's arms.
"Oh my dearest Hermione Granger, I cannot wait until you share my name!"
"Neither can I, Mr. Malfoy!"
Even though Draco knew she was just saying that to emphasise his name, he held her close against him and whispered in her ear. "It's Draco, Hermione. Please, don't call me Mr. Malfoy anymore. " Hermione and Draco just lay in silence, Hermione thinking about all the times she'd had to say Mr. Malfoy on pain of torture or maybe death. How close she thought she'd come to being killed, to then losing her parents.
"Are you alright, darling?"
"Yeah," said Hermione, "Just thinking. We've been through so much to get here, there's been a price to pay, but it can still end happily." Draco held her close and kissed her.
"Hermione, I'm so, so sorry about your parents. I'll do anything you need me to. Do you understand?" Hermione nodded. "Thank you, Draco. Right now just hold me, please?"
Draco didn't answer, just held her tight against his chest. Hermione leant in and kissed him lovingly. "You are my future, Draco Malfoy. I may have lost my parents and I still can't quite believe it, but you are the one who will keep me going."
"I will do my best. As I said, I will do anything you ask of me. Anything."
Hermione managed a faint smile.
"If that is the case, Draco, when can I marry you?"
"Hermione, you can marry me as soon as you like."
"Can we do it as soon as possible, Draco? I really can't wait!"
"Certainly, my darling. We can start arranging it tomorrow if you like."
"Draco, there is nothing I would like more!"
"Then it shall be done," he whispered gently to her, as she snuggled close against him.
"Thank you so much, Draco. I can't thank you enough for this! I would have had a huge problem if you'd said no!"
"So would I, my darling," Draco whispered gently to her, as they felt themselves drifting off to sleep in each other's arms. "You see, my heart won't let go."
The next morning, Draco woke to find Hermione gone. He looked over and saw a note on her pillow. Her side of the bed had been neatly made.
My dearest, dearest Draco, please do not worry about me, I will be back. I just needed some woman time. Please, don't come looking for me. I love you,
H.J.G. Xxx.
Quietly, Draco got up and dressed. He was more than willing to respect her wishes. Unknown to him, she had sent other notes to Harry and Ginny.
Dear Harry, if you don't mind, I need to borrow your wife for a while. I need a woman, Harry. My grief is so strong today, I don't know if I can deal with it alone. In fact, I know I can't. I love you, Harry,
H.J.G. Xxx.
Unknown to Hermione however, as soon as Ginny had received her note, she'd taken action.
Dearest Ginny, please can I spend some time alone with you today, I'm really struggling. I still can't quite believe what's happened yesterday. It's been so much; I can't cope with it. I can't believe I've lost my parents! My heart is breaking! Please, can I spend some time with just women today? I just have a feeling my grief is finally able to come out; I need a shoulder to cry on. Thanks, I love you Gin,
H.J.G. Xxx.
As soon as Ginny had received her note, she had contacted her mum and Narcissa Malfoy. Who both agreed to be waiting at the Burrow? Ginny met Hermione at eight that morning and together they disapporated.
"Ginny, how did you learn to disapporate so soon? You're only just of age."
"I took the test on my birthday," said Ginny simply.
As soon as they reached the Burrow, Hermione couldn't help but smile slightly at the sight of Mrs. Weasley and Narcissa Malfoy. That woman truly had changed! Hermione walked straight into the kitchen and instantly, Mrs. Weasley passed her a strong cup of tea. Without hesitating, Hermione told them all the whole story, including what had happened the night before. She flashed the ring which was back on her finger and the three women smiled. She'd left the battle until last. She told them about the heart shaped diamond that Pansy Parkinson had turned into a Port Key. Narcissa and Mrs. Weasley were looking as if they could kill.
"Draco knew nothing about it though," said Ginny quietly. "Dumbledore questioned him under Veritas rum. Pansy Parkinson's the guilty one. Lucius, Peter, Bellatrix and Pansy are now all in Azkaban."
"Good," said Hermione fervently.
However, when she got to her parents, she could not continue. Grief. Roar, fresh, undeniable crashed over Hermione. Her parents were gone, they were never coming back. She would soon walk down the aisle and they would never see it happen. What was worse, the man she was marrying, they had died thinking he was a traitor. Hermione took a few deep breaths, trying to steady herself, but couldn't. Eventually, finally, she was able to fully break down. Ginny and Mrs. Weasley ran to her and held her.
"I asked Draco not to come looking for me for this very reason," Hermione sobbed. "I know he had nothing to do with it and I still love him truly, but he wears that damn mark!" Narcissa nodded in understanding. "What's worse, he used to serve the man who killed my parents! Used to kneel at his feet! I know he doesn't anymore, as don't you, Mrs. Malfoy, but…"
Narcissa stood up and also hugged Hermione. "Believe me, I understand," she said quietly. Mrs. Weasley kept refilling Hermione's tea cup and handing her tissues, as she let out only the start of her grief.
A few hours later at noon, Hermione and Ginny headed back towards Hogwarts. "Thank you," said Hermione quietly, just before they left. "I knew this would come at some point soon, thank you for being there." Narcissa and Mrs. Weasley both hugged her tightly.
"Thank you, Mrs. Malfoy."
"You're welcome, Hermione and it's Narcissa."
Five minutes later, Ginny and Hermione were walking up towards the Head's Quarters. They were surprised to see Ron, Harry and Draco all sitting there. They all looked up instantly as the Portrait swung back. Quickly, Draco stood up and took Hermione against his chest. Harry did the same with Ginny.
"I love you, Draco Malfoy. I love you so much. You have to believe that."
"I do, Hermione." Draco said gently. "I do."
Two days later.
The garden of Malfoy Manor was packed. Dumbledore had told the whole school that Hermione had been freed from the Curse, but had lost her parents in the process. Even those who hadn't known Mr. and Mrs. Granger, but were Hermione's friends, turned up to pay their last respects. A team of Ministry workers had managed to bring out Mr. and Mrs. Granger's bodies from the study and they were now encased in black coffins. Hermione was in the very front row, with Ginny right at her side. As one final bit of respect to the Granger's, after all he'd put their daughter through, Draco was carrying Mr. Granger, Harry Mrs. Granger. Hermione was keeping herself together very well. She was being very strong, no one knew quite how she was pulling it off. They were all proud of her, however. The two men gently laid the coffins at the front of the garden, beside Dumbledore, who was officiating. Quietly, Dumbledore began to speak, as Ginny and Mrs. Weasley held Hermione close to their sides.
"Very unfortunately, I met these two charming people in very bad circumstances. The details of which, I do not need to go in to. Those concerned know who they are. Mrs. Granger, even under those desperate times, was always able to crack a smile if her husband or someone around her made a particularly witty remark. There were a few occasions where I was able to make her smile. During one of our last meetings, she told me about her love for the garden. Not a day would go by, where Susan Granger wouldn't be out decorating the garden to her liking, or riding on her recently received motorbike."
Hermione couldn't help but flinch at the mention of that bike. What a day that had been, she felt so bad now for getting as drunk as she had at her mother's party, not knowing it was the last birthday they would share. Anger. Unbidden, unwanted but very strong, rose in Hermione's heart. It was all Draco's fault! Ginny seemed to detect her anger and held her tighter. Mrs. Weasley planted a gentle kiss on her cheek.
"Susan Granger described to me her love for the garden and for all things natural. She had planned to make good use of her bike by riding out into the country. Also, to ride to the dentist she worked at every morning. As for Mark Granger, he was a very outgoing character. He told me he would not be one to relax and do gardening. He liked any number of outdoor pursuits, from sailing to sky diving. Which he'd done a few of in his time. He told me the romantic story of his and Susan's meeting. They'd actually been in a dental surgery awaiting their appointments. They had a very long wait ahead of them, so they began to talk. Two hours later, they eventually went in for their appointments, but had swapped contact details. They kept in touch and met up regularly and over the course of time, fell in love and married and had Hermione Granger. A kinder, more caring person you could not wish to meet. It is with great sadness and regret that we acknowledge their loss. The loss of two loving and caring parents, who died for their daughter. Who died at the hands of a merciless dark wizard, killing two defenceless captive Muggles, just because their daughter would not comply and was showing too much power for his liking?"
Suddenly, Hermione got to her feet, came to the front and knelt by her parent's coffins. "I don't know how I'll live on without my parents, they were so caring, so loving and true. Captured by a pure evil wizard, just because of me. This had nothing to do with them, it was all due to the mess I'd been placed in! May Voldemort rot in hell and all his damn fucking followers with him! Anyone who ever served that wizard should die a nasty, slow, painful death!" Hermione's anger and grief was truly coming out and no one moved to stop her. "Fucking Death Eaters!" She shouted, laying one hand on her father's, one on her mother's coffin. "Total and complete bastards! They should burn in hell! I know their Master is dead, but that doesn't make it any easier for people who lost loved ones at his hand! I want to kill every Death Eater, in the worst possible way. Anyone who has that Mark on their arm, should die!"
Suddenly, she looked straight into Draco's eyes. Her anger was obvious to behold. Suddenly, she walked straight over to him and yanked up the left sleeve of his dress shirt. There, was the Dark Mark. Hermione looked at it and there was pure hatred in her eyes. Draco did not move his arm from her grip.
"Bastards," she breathed. "Fucking damn bastards!"
She released Draco's arm and ran back to her parent's coffins, tears coming thick and fast. "Mum, dad, he wasn't a traitor, but he still bares your killers fucking Mark! I hate that thing! I don't want to see it on the man I'm supposed to marry! It'll be too painful every time! Mum, dad, he knew nothing about this, but he still served him at one point! Him and his mother both! They fucking served that bastard, your killer! Mum, dad, I love you so much and I always will! You'll always be here, in my heart."
Hermione broke down completely. Gently, Dumbledore touched her shoulder, then knelt down beside her and placed a gentle arm around her. Ginny suddenly stood.
"I know I speak for Harry, Ron and I when I say this. When we first met Susan and Mark Granger, we knew instantly they truly loved their daughter. They would do anything they could to save her, they even managed to realise Hermione's childhood dream as they were sure Hermione's last days were at hand. More loving, caring parents you could not find. They would not leave their daughter's side, right up until death. Hermione has told me her father's last words. Be happy. Right up until the very end, Hermione's happiness was their one and only concern. Even though one man holds that Mark of the one who did this unbelievably evil deed, tearing Hermione's and many other families apart, he is the one who is supposed to make her happy, so he'd better do it for the Granger's, or I swear by Merlin he'll pay!" Ginny sat.
Quietly, Dumbledore gently directed the coffins in to a whole in the ground, then covered them so there was a smooth mound on top. He then conjured two shining metal head stones. The first said Mark Granger, the second, Susan Granger. Underneath both names, was written, beloved parents of Hermione Jane Granger, who we will all dearly miss. Soon, the service was over and Dumbledore gently helped Hermione to her feet. A few minutes later, everyone walked into the house except Hermione, who stayed by the graves. She sank to her knees on the grass.
"No rush, Hermione," said Ginny gently. "Come in when you're ready."
Harry, Ron and many others came over to hug her. Hermione wanted them all to just leave. She regretted that she'd had to say those words about the Malfoy's, but they were true and there was no escaping that. Soon, Hermione was alone. She rested her head on her mother's grave and cried. She cried fully and completely. The grief hit her even harder than it had yet. She let her tears go in anguish. She couldn't hold them back anymore.
"Mum, dad, I love you so much!" She sobbed. "I wish my Fiancé had never served that piece of shit! I love him though, but God that knowledge makes me want to hate him!" She cried unrestrained against her mother's grave, her arm resting on her father's. Suddenly, she didn't know how long she'd been out there, but she felt tender arms around her shoulders. She didn't move. She felt herself gently being pulled close against someone, but not pulled back from the graves. She just cried even harder, knowing someone was there, holding her.
Suddenly, she heard a gentle voice. "Miss Granger, you were quite right to say the things you did and we can't tell you how sorry we are." It was Narcissa. Hermione looked up into the woman's kind face.
"I'm sorry, Narcissa,"
"Don't be, sweetheart. WE both entirely agree with you. We can't tell you of the guilt tearing at our hearts. Draco is inconsolable. He served him more than I did."
Suddenly, they heard footsteps. Dumbledore and Draco had appeared. Quietly, Dumbledore knelt on Hermione's right, Draco stood behind her. Hermione did not look up. Anger was still coursing through her veins and she could not stop it. Draco Malfoy had agreed to the Curse, which in the end had led to her parent's deaths! She'd expected to grieve, but not this anger and hatred. If Hermione had looked up into Draco's eyes right then, she would have seen that they were swimming with tears. However, she did not. She couldn't deny what she was feeling at that moment. Cold, undeniable fury. Gently, Dumbledore raised Narcissa's left arm and exposed the Mark. Hermione looked away. Dumbledore touched it with his wand, muttering under his breath. Slowly but surely, the Mark disappeared. Narcissa quietly held up her left arm so Hermione could see it. The Mark was completely gone. Quietly, Dumbledore did the same to Draco, until he too, did not have a Mark on his arm any longer. Hermione didn't say anything. She couldn't. She felt Narcissa quietly stand up and then she heard footsteps. She rested her head on her mother's grave once more, it was pounding.
Suddenly, she felt gentle arms take her close and her face being raised up, it was soaked with tears. Gently, she felt lips connect with her own. She didn't even try to pull back. Draco didn't say anything, just continued to gently kiss her and hold her close. Eventually, Hermione looked up into his eyes and saw the guilt and grief reflected in them. Suddenly she regretted her words more than ever. Was Draco mad at her? Was he just kissing her for comfort? He probably didn't love her all too much right at that moment.
"Draco," Hermione could only say his name in just above a whisper. "Draco I'm so sorry,"
Gently, Draco helped her to her feet. She swayed on the spot and Draco's arms gently tightened around her. Gently, he led her back into the house. He led her into his private study and directed her onto his leather couch. He then sat beside her and took her close to his chest. His lips found hers in a gentle kiss.
"Hermione, you are telling the truth and I regret it more than I can even begin to tell you. I and my mother both. Hermione, we are so, so sorry, I feel so guilty, I can't even begin to put it into words. I hope someday you can forgive me, but I know that will take time. Know this. I love you and I always will, forever." Hermione buried her head in his shoulder. Draco held her tighter against him.
"I'm here, Hermione," he said gently. "I will never leave you unless you ask me to. I'll be here for you, always. I long for you to be a Malfoy, I cannot wait until we are married, and I hope I can be a truly loving husband to you. I will do anything for you, absolutely anything! "Hermione suddenly found that she felt absolutely exhausted. She snuggled into Draco, her head still resting on his shoulder, her eyes wet with tears. She felt emotionally drained. Draco's arms held her protectively to his chest, as he gently wiped her eyes and kissed her. Soon, Hermione was fast asleep, in Draco Malfoy's arms.
Quietly, Draco stood up and gently lifted Hermione into his arms. Tenderly, he carried her from the study. Harry and Ginny saw them and stopped. Draco raised his left arm as slightly as he could, so as to avoid waking Hermione, so they could see the absence of the Dark Mark on his skin.
"Good man," said Harry encouragingly. "Good move."
Draco nodded. "Dumbledore's doing," he said quietly. "We owe him. Both mother and I do." Quietly, he carried the sleeping Hermione past them, as they headed for the room they were staying in. A little further on, they saw Mr. Weasley walking to the room Narcissa had given them.
Just as he came up to them, Hermione stirred slightly. Draco held her tightly against his shoulder. "Mr. Weasley," said Hermione faintly, as she fixed her eyes on him. Mr. Weasley stopped.
"Yes, Hermione?"
"Please, could you do me a favour?"
"Name it, Hermione."
At last, Hermione managed a faint smile, as Draco held her tightly but tenderly, preparing to carry her to bed. "Will you carry me down the aisle?"
Mr. Weasley nodded and smiled.
