Suddenly, she felt two gentle arms around her. For a second, she thought Riddle had returned for more. Then, she felt a very tender and gentle kiss. She recognized that kiss instantly. It was Draco! Hermione had no strength. She just allowed him to gently hold her close and kiss her. Gently, he helped her to her feet. Suddenly, Hermione glanced to her left and saw Gina and Harry come out from a nearby bush. She stared at them, shocked.
"You told me not to call any Aurors, but do you really think I wasn't going to follow you? Hermione, I thought you'd know me better than that, even though you don't know me well." Hermione was crying so hard, she couldn't look around. She staggered slightly, but Draco held her fast.
Harry took a step forward.
"Hermione, I would have never just abandoned you like that, ever. I don't know how you knew he was still alive and I'm sorry for the way I was, but rest assured he won't be for long!" Harry snarled.
Hermione was crying too hard to answer. She tried to pull back from Draco, but Draco was having none of it.
"Come on, Hermione," came Gina's gentle voice. "Let's get you back to the castle. Then, this time, I will modify your memory."
"And I won't leave you, no matter what you say to me," came Draco's gentle voice right next to her ear. He tenderly kissed her again.
With the three of them aiding Hermione, they apporated back to Hogwarts. They quickly entered Draco's and Hermione's Quarters.
Harry and Gina left, while Draco gently helped Hermione undress and get into bed. Quickly, he did the same, and then climbed in beside her. He held her tight in his arms. He began to kiss her, so gently, so lovingly.
"I love you, Hermione. I can't let you go. You're too precious to me."
Hermione couldn't answer. She just lay there, as Draco kissed her.
A few minutes later, Gina and Harry entered the room. They smiled at Hermione in the tight but gentle embrace of Draco.
"Try and resist that, Hermione," Harry said with a smile on his lips.
Gina approached Hermione. Her head was against Draco's shoulder. She was crying, but Draco was gently kissing her tears away.
Gina raised her wand.
"Hermione, focus your mind on that seen, please?"
Hermione focused her mind back to being raped by Riddle, then to her seen with him in the woods. But she focused mainly on her attack.
"Obliviate!" Gina said sharply.
Hermione's eyes slid out of focus, as Draco held her tight. Suddenly, a smile hit her lips.
"Hermione, are you the way you want to be?" said Gina with a smile. Hermione knew what she meant straight away."
"Yes," she said a contented smile on her lips. "Have been all my life."
Gina smiled.
Quickly, Harry and Gina stood up.
"Come on, Harry. We've got something we need to talk about before turning in."
"Sure thing, Gina."
Harry and Gena headed for the door, when Hermione suddenly called to them.
"Thank you, guys. I owe you so much. I don't know how I'll ever repay you."
"Just don't leave the love you'll find in Draco's arms again and that's fine for both of us," Harry said.
Hermione smiled broadly. "You're on."
The next morning, Harry was awake early. He glanced at his watch and saw it was half three. He silently prayed that Hermione was still safe in the embrace of Draco. He prayed he wouldn't let her go. Quietly, he walked through to the head boy and girls Quarters.
He knocked quietly on the portrait, but there was no answer. Finally, one of the occupants of the picture spoke.
"Miss. Granger is safe, Mr. Malfoy is with her. He won't be letting her go any time soon. She's soundly asleep in his arms. Do not worry, Mr. Potter."
Harry briefly wondered how the picture knew his name, but smiled back at the old man who'd spoken.
"Thank you, Sir. That's all I needed."
He walked fast out to the gates. The night before, he'd sent off a very brief letter.
Voldemort,
This is getting stupid. Meet me at the Hogwarts gates at four A.M. Let's get this sorted.
One of us will be dead before Dawn, and odds on it isn't me!
Let's get this over once and for all, shall we?
Maybe you got briefly distracted during your sexual meeting with Hermione, but believe me, she won't be here to distract you this time!
See you there. You don't turn up, shows you're a coward.
I hate you with all in me,
Harry.
At five to four, Harry reached the gates. At exactly four, there was a pop. Voldemort apporated beside him, still as hansom Tom Riddle.
"Let's save our hello's, shall we? Let's just get this done! I've got a big night ahead of me tonight Riddle, an important job and you aren't going to stop it! I see you've still shown up as your hansom self, what? Want to give Hermione one more shot?"
As soon as he'd spoke this, Harry wished he'd kept his mouth shut. For just then, the worst thing Harry had prayed wouldn't happen, happened. Hermione apporated just feet from them, closely followed by Draco and, Gina?
The other two were trying to hold her back.
"Hermione, this is Harry's fight, we can't help him! Please, quit."
"Hermione, even if you try, I won't let you do this."
"What?" She spat. "Afraid I'll have another try with Riddle? Maybe we'd actually work!"
Oh no, no no no! Harry was secretly begging Hermione to shut up. Riddle smirked.
"Hermione, you know you don't mean that, now please, stop. It's too dangerous!"
Riddle laughed.
"Clearly she does still like me eh Potter? Maybe she will join me, after all? I know I am irresistible, you see."
"In your dreams, you bastard!" Harry spat back at him. He was desperate for Gina and Draco to just grab Hermione and get out of there.
"I will get to our arrangement, Potter, but I do have to just see this," Riddle smirked.
There was a silence, and then Riddle quietly walked over to them. Gina flinched.
"Well good morning, ladies and gent. I knew I wouldn't be the only one out this morning to watch and enjoy Potter die."
Hermione tried to reach him but Draco and Gena held her firm.
"Hermione, no! What was that spell for? Everything you and Draco have?" Gena hissed.
Draco was still holding Hermione tightly and protectively.
"You can't order me around, Draco! I'm not a servant for you to command! I don't order people, unlike him," she spat at Riddle.
"Hermione, sweetheart, this is a bad idea. This fight was foretold years ago, Harry needs to finish this. He needs to kill him. Please, we don't want more bloodshed. Think of your parents, would you want them to die for nothing? Please, let Harry do this."
"He can't order me around, Gina, he can't."
"No one's ordering you Hermione; we just don't want you to die. Remember, Draco loves you, you love Draco. You'd break his heart by getting yourself killed tonight."
"Hermione, I love you. I'm not ordering you; this is for your safety. Gina's right. OK, look. I wouldn't stop you if you tried, but I really, don't advise it."
"That's total shit! You're just afraid Riddle will try something. It's nothing to do with me."
"Hermione, stop."
Draco looked hurt beyond all recognition.
"Fine. Fine. If that's how you feel, do what you like, Hermione. It's your life, it always was. You always were the same. Never wanted anyone to protect you, love you. Well then we won't. I won't, at least. But, if you get yourself killed, don't blame me, and don't expect me at your funeral," he snarled as he turned on his heal and walked away.
For the briefest of seconds, Hermione could not register what had happened. Then, she looked at Gina; her face was white as a sheet.
"Oh fuck…"
"Hermione, go! Go after him, now! You don't want to lose this, you never have! Don't let this go!"
Hermione stood uncertainly on the spot.
"There's always me, Granger," came a soft voice rite next to her ear. She turned to look straight at Riddle.
"Remember what I said last night? I'd like a first view if you kill yourself, or…" He leant in so their lips were barely an inch apart.
Hermione pulled back slightly. Harry was staring in utter disgust.
"Hermione, you need some serious love counselling," he spat. "He loves you, or should I say did, and you've lost it!"
Gina took a step closer.
"Harry,"
"Leave it, Gena. Leave it. She obviously does not appreciate what you or I or Draco did for her, she's not worth it. I'd leave now if I were you."
Gina stepped towards Hermione, who now had tears running down her face. At the same moment, Harry turned back to Voldemort.
"What an interesting development," Voldemort smirked. "She could be useful to me, you know."
"No she couldn't, as you're not going to live past dawn!" Harry snarled.
Before long, they were duelling.
Gena held Hermione protectively close, as spells whizzed past them.
"Let's just get this over with, shall we?"
"Yeah, that sounds like a good idea," Harry raised his wand again.
He'd been hit many times with unforgivable curses, both of them, in fact. Crucio and Impereo. The only words he hadn't heard for the last time yet, were
Avada Kedavra. Sure Voldemort had yelled it a few times, but Harry's Quidditch training was keeping him alive.
"We are not playing hide and seek Harry," Voldemort's soft cold voice spoke, making Harry start. That was exactly what he'd said to him in his fourth year.
Here he was yet again, crouching at Voldemort's feet. Harry stood up.
"Ok, this has gone far enough, you're going to die!" Harry snarled.
He raised his wand, and then doubled back. Riddle had strolled over to Hermione and Gina, as though he had not a care in the world. Hermione clung to Gina; she looked as if she was going to be sick.
She felt so vulnerable, so alone, so scared. Now, Draco wasn't here to help her out and it was all her fault. Whatever Riddle chose to do now, she couldn't stop him.
Riddle raised his wand. Hermione flinched.
"Don't worry, I stick to what I said last night, Mud Blood, but I just can't resist this."
"What?" She whispered, terrified.
"You," he said so quietly into her ear, that only Hermione heard it. He brushed his lips lightly against hers, and then raised his wand again.
"Crucio!"
The pain was unbelievable. Hermione's screams echoed around the grounds. Harry was still fuming, but he couldn't just stand there and watch her be tortured.
Riddle lifted the curse and Hermione lay limp on the floor. Riddle knelt over her.
"You still have a choice, Mud Blood. Join me and you can always feel my passion."
He placed his lips hard against hers. Hermione could not pull away, she was too weak. She knew Riddle knew it.
"You lying peace of shit!" She finally managed to choke out.
"You don't give a damn for me, or anyone else. You'd just use me for your own evil desires. And, another thing, why is Lord Voldemort so desperate for a Mud Blood? Won't do much for your reputation now, will it?"
Riddle glared at her.
"She's right, you know," came Gina's steady voice. She had her wand out, pointed straight at Riddle.
"If you don't want to die tonight, I suggest you shut up," Riddle spat back.
"Oh heck, I'm so scared of you, because it's not like Harry's going to kill you first, is it?"
Riddle made no answer. Instead, he returned his full attention to Hermione. He flicked his wand again and Hermione was down, unable to move. She was being pinned down. Gina's face went white. She knew exactly what was about to happen.
"Harry, please, don't argue, please fetch Mr. Malfoy! Look, I know what just happened between them, but please she needs him! Please Harry, go!" The Healer was nearly crying.
Harry took one look and new instantly. Rape.
Harry sped into the castle as fast as he could go.
Luckily, he found Draco very quickly. Standing with his face in his hands against a wall.
"Draco, please! You have to come and now!"
"Oh she suddenly expects my help?" Draco sneered.
"Draco, at this moment she's not my favourite person in the whole world, but please, you must!"
"Why are you so desperate? You were the one yelling at her back there."
"Because encase you haven't noticed, she's been one of my best friends for six years!" Harry hissed. "Draco, like I said, I'm not best pleased rite now, but please! Gina's instructions.
Draco reluctantly followed.
"What's going on?"
You'll see when we get out there, please Draco, this is life or death!"
"I'm coming, but don't expect me to forgive…"
His voice trailed off as they entered the grounds. Hermione was still pinned down and Riddle was kissing her passionately. By this stage, she was stripped of all her under clothes. Riddle was going to do it right there and then in front of them.
"No, no. Please, Mr. Riddle, I'll do anything. Just not that, please not that!" Hermione was in tears.
"Would you join me?" Riddle whispered in her ear, still kissing her.
Hermione couldn't move. She didn't want this; she hated this man's guts!
She turned desperately to Gina.
"Men, fucking men! Why can't I keep Draco by my side for five fucking seconds? Why do I always say the wrong thing? Why am I so fucking stupid? I love him so bloody much, now it's too late! I've lost him for good this time, good-bye to my dream, good-bye world!"
She tried to grab her wand.
Riddle was suddenly on top of Hermione.
"Shit!" She screamed as loud as she could.
This was it. Her dream was over. Not just that part, but she'd also lost the man she loved. At that moment, Draco and Harry appeared, running flat out towards them.
"Would you?" Riddle hissed again, kissing her harder.
"Would it stop you?" Hermione whispered.
"Hermione, no! Whatever you do, not that!" Gina begged.
"Hermione, I know you want to be married before sex. I know the spell cast on you yesterday to restore you to how you want to be. I saw it in your mind last night. If you join me, I will make you my wife and you will find me so gentle and caring."
"He lies, Hermione!"
Riddle flicked his wand and this time, it was Gina's turn to go down under the Cruciatus Curse. Harry and Draco reached them, just in time to help Gina to her feet.
"If not, I will take your desire and dream away from you once more and this time it will not be able to be restored. That, my dear," he kissed her hard again, "is a promise."
"I hate you," Hermione whispered. She could not keep the tears back. "I hate you so much.
"Feelings mutual, but damn you're attractive."
Riddle kissed her once more. Any second now, he would be in her. Hermione's dream would be lost.
"Would you?" Riddle spoke loud enough for the men to hear.
"Hermione, if you join me, I will wait until we're married and you will find me so so gentle. I'll love you with all I am. If you don't, tonight here and now, your dream will be stolen from you. You have 10 seconds."
"Kill me," Hermione said to Riddle.
"Kill me; I don't want to live like this. You, as evil and uncaring as you are, who doesn't even understand love, how could you act out something you don't understand? Please, kill me. I'd rather die with my dream still intact, than live with it lost. I know it's nothing to you and a lot of fucking men, but to me it's huge! Don't take it from me, Mr. Riddle. Please? Kill me?"
"You would rather die for something like that? Damn you play hard to get!"
"Only because all you'd want is sex, you bastard!"
Hermione tried to resist the pinning spell, but couldn't. She couldn't see Harry and Draco standing there, Riddle was blocking her view.
"Hermione," came Gina's gentle voice. "I know you can't see us, but we're here. Trust me."
Hermione didn't register fully what Gena had said.
"Ah I see, you want to find true love, then wait till your married for it!" Riddle spat.
"Give that man a medal," Hermione answered, trying to keep fear out of her voice.
"But, darling, aren't I write that the one you love just walked away from you? From the way he was speaking to you, it doesn't sound like he loves you anymore, now does it? Sounds like you've lost your true love, so why wait till marriage? Of course, if you join me, I'll be happy to wait."
"Oh stop it Riddle, you're charming my heart away." Hermione tried to move, but Riddle's pinning spell was too strong. Once again, he began to kiss her.
Hermione could not fight the tears that fell from her eyes. Riddle was right. She had lost her true love, Draco Malfoy. Maybe she should just let it happen. What was the point? Draco said that he wouldn't love her, so she might as well just give herself to Riddle. Slowly, she nodded.
"You agree, Granger? Are you agreeing to join me?"
"No, but just take me, Riddle. Just do it. Now. You're right. I've lost my true love, it's too late. Come on, I'm all yours."
Harry and Draco looked desperately at Gena.
"Oh my fucking god…"
Draco looked as if he was going to be sick. He looked heart broken.
"Mr. Malfoy,
"Call me Draco, for Goodness sake woman!" Malfoy spat.
Gina didn't flinch.
"Draco, you need to forgive Hermione for what she said. I know she didn't mean it, please! She needs you right now and her dream is about to shatter. I know you now know what it was, hard not to."
"Gina, what she said hurt. It hurt a lot. You can't expect me to just forget it?"
"Draco," Gena hissed, her face mere inches from Draco's. "Do you really want her to go through this? You still love her, face it like a man! You know it! She needs love rite now, only love will get her out of this!"
"Gina, I'm not sure if I do love her now. All she does is hurt me."
"You fucking bastard!"
The voice made Draco and Gena start. Harry was standing there, his wand pointing straight at Draco.
"That's a fucking lie and you know it! You can't just leave her now, what have we been doing for the past day? Don't you dare do that to her, or I'll kill you myself! You heard her, she's just admitted to Voldemort she thinks she's lost her true love, well if she actually has, your dead, son!"
"Draco," Gena said gently. "You didn't mean that, did you? In your heart of hearts?"
Harry and Gena glanced at Draco and saw he had tears coming from his eyes.
"No," he said quietly. "Of course I didn't."
"Then you'd better bloody prove it!" Harry snarled.
"Hermione is in danger of losing her dream once more and if you just stand there and let it happen, you're dead!"
Draco turned desperately to Gena.
"What do I do?"
"Get round there and to Riddle! Stop him in whatever way you can! It has to be you, Draco, seen as her dream involves true love and you're the man she loves. But for goodness sake, you need to kiss Hermione! If you don't, she'll struggle against you and you need to let her know it's alright."
Draco ran towards Hermione and Riddle, flat out.
Hermione saw Draco's face inches from her own. He couldn't do much, as Riddle was on top of Hermione, but he tenderly kissed her cheek.
"Hermione," he had tears in his eyes. "I'm so, so sorry. I love you so much. That was wrong of me, please, don't let him kill you."
"I won't live with my dream shattered, either. That was my mother's number 1 in life and she kept it for my dad! I can't!"
Hermione, you won't have to. I love you, I'll still marry you, and I love you so much!"
For the briefest of seconds, Hermione was totally distracted.
"You… you'll marry me?" She finally choked out.
"If you let yourself live, yes!"
Gina sent words up with her wand that only Draco could see.
"Great! Just what she needed to hear! Keep it up!"
"Hermione, look. I'm sorry, I know how much this means to you, but I'll still love you, still marry you. Darling, it doesn't matter to me. I know how much it matters to you, but believe me, I'll make it so special for you on our Wedding night, and it'll be just as if it was your first time! Hermione, dearest, dearest Hermione, I promise!"
Hermione managed to turn her head and Draco caught her lips in a gentle, full of true love kiss.
Suddenly, Hermione heard a voice from above her.
"Mr. Riddle?" The voice was beautiful. Riddle looked up. In front of them stood the most beautiful woman Hermione had ever seen. Instantly, Riddle stood up. Draco gently took Hermione tight against him and helped her to her feet.
"Mr. Riddle, I am a Muggle Born also. If there is something you find desirable about us, then by all means, take me. Leave Hermione's dream be. She needs it, she loves it, and she wants it."
Harry couldn't believe it. Lord Voldemort was speechless. The woman in front of them looked like an angel. Draco held Hermione close as she broke down.
She knew who this angel was.
Draco kissed her so lovingly that Hermione knew it was no contest. Even though she'd known it all along. Harry too, was in shock.
"Gina, please, no!"
This brought Harry sharply back. Gina was willing to let Riddle have her, to save Hermione! Damn they'd become close!
"Hermione," the beautiful woman whispered. "Go. Get out of here. Draco, take her, quickly! Don't watch this, please!"
Draco looked as horrified and upset as Harry.
"We… we have to stop this."
The lust in Riddle's eyes was obvious.
"Gina, I can't let you do this! Please, no!"
"I'm not a servant for you to command," Gina said calmly, making Hermione flinch.
Draco held her tight as she continued to cry.
Suddenly, Hermione said words she thought she'd never say in her life.
"Draco, please, get me away from this! I don't know if you've forgiven me or not, and you can sneer at me all you want, for what I said earlier, but please, please, get me out of here!" She clung to him as hard as she could.
Draco didn't need a second's thought. He held Hermione tight against him, kissing her tenderly all the while, then disapporated, with her in his arms.
Riddle was speechless, as he looked at the gorgeous young woman in front of him. She was certainly better looking than Granger! He took a step towards her.
"The pleasure is mine, Mr. Riddle."
Harry had to marvel. He had no idea what Gina had done to her face, body or voice, but jeez she'd done a good job! A bloody good job!
"Hey, what's the matter? Don't want to take me on a hard ground? You were going to take Hermione that way. What's the difference, Mr. Riddle?"
Voldemort had no idea what was going through his head. He wanted to tell this beauty she could call him Tom, not Mr. Riddle. All his attention was focused fully on her. Harry was also watching closely. He was convinced Gina could be trusted, but now he began to wonder. Could she? Had she led them all into a trap? More like, him?
Riddle couldn't take his eyes away from Gina, who smiled seductively.
"Come on, don't be afraid," she teased. "You're the most feared Wizard of all time," (she didn't add Dark) "so you must have girls falling at your feet. I'm openly offering myself to you, are you nervous or something?"
Riddle shook his head.
"Ah I see, my beauty has you speechless. I'm honoured. Here, let me make this easier for you."
Gina approached Riddle and put her arms around him. Riddle still seemed in a trance. Then, she kissed him lightly on the mouth and it didn't take long for him to respond. Never the less, he didn't know why, he couldn't take her on this hard ground.
For goodness sake, he thought. You're Voldemort. She's just a bit of sex and fun for you, just take her now. You did with Granger. Ok, I'll give them fair treatment. I'll take her on a bed, too.
He gently held Gina close, then disapporated.
Instantly, Harry followed them. He had a pretty good idea where they were. Sure enough, when he pushed open the hospital wing doors, there they were. Riddle was gently but passionately kissing Gina.
Gina looked up quickly and mouthed at him. Harry instantly caught it.
"Must not see you."
Instantly, Harry ran up to his room and grabbed his invisibility cloak. He was back about a minute later. Riddle was gently helping Gina into bed, just as he'd done with Hermione.
Gina, Harry thought, you can't let it go that far, you can't! Hermione would never get over it!
Riddle climbed in beside Gina and took her close. He was kissing her passionately. Suddenly, he flicked his wand.
"Hey, hey." Gina smiled at him.
"What's with the pinning spell? I'm here willingly, not forced. Take that off me, won't you? I'm not going to run. Please?" Riddle released the spell, and then climbed on top of her.
Instantly, Gina began to respond to his touch and kisses. Harry could tell that Riddle was loving this, because as Gina was not pinned down as Granger had been, she could give him some passion in return.
Suddenly, Gina changed position, so she was on top of Riddle. She was in control. She felt Riddle try to protest.
"Hey, come on now. Give me some room here." She smiled her beautiful smile.
"Or, are you so crazy for power you even need to have control in bed?"
Riddle made no answer. Instead, he grabbed her and kissed her mouth forcefully.
"Alright, alright, Sir. Control is yours," Gina smiled.
Instantly, Riddle was back on top of her, kissing her passionately.
"You can call me Tom," he gasped.
"Why thank you, Tom. Such a privilege.
Under his cloak, Harry gasped. She really was doing something to him! Ha!
He kissed her, long and hard. Gena closed her eyes, as if in total bliss. A look of total concentration came over her face and Harry knew that Riddle thought it was on him. Was it? Harry was now more confused than ever.
Suddenly, just as Riddle was about to enter her, it happened. Gina spoke. Her words were in a language Harry didn't understand. Just as Gina finished speaking, Riddle became still. He couldn't move. Gina struggled from the bed.
"Harry, Harry, quick! You have to kill him, now!"
Harry stared at her.
"What did you?"
"He's in a magical trance! He can't do anything. All he can think about is my beauty, so called. A bit of a taste of his own medicine towards Hermione!"
"Ha!" Harry grabbed his wand.
"This is for our loved ones," he spat at the still unmoving Riddle.
"Avada Kedavra!"
There was a flash of green light as the curse hit Riddle square in the heart. Just as it hit, his eyes flickered one last time. Harry's scar burned in agony and Gina grabbed hold of him to hold him up. Harry collapsed against Gina's shoulder, gasping with pain. Riddle was still unmoving. Then, his eyes closed and he fell back. Gina ran to move him so he wouldn't fall out of the bed and hit the floor.
"I'd have let him go," Harry snarled. "You're too soft!"
"Maybe," Gina smirked, "but hey, job's done."
"Are… are you sure?" Harry gasped, although from the pain his scar was giving him, he was pretty sure.
"Check for yourself if you need to, Harry.
Supported by Gina, Harry walked over to the bed. He grabbed Riddle's arm and felt for a pulse. Nothing.
"He's… no way! He really is, dead!"
Gina hugged him tightly.
"Well done, Harry! You've rid us of he who must not be named! Well, by some." Harry couldn't help it. He broke down laughing.
"We have to find Mr. and Mrs. Malfoy to be!" Harry grinned.
They practically ran to the heads private Quarters.
"Wow! Harry Potter! You've done it!"
Harry glanced up. The portrait guarding the Quarters was full. All the pictures were talking about it!
"Well done, indeed, Harry," said a voice Harry knew. He looked up, straight in to the eyes of the picture of Albus Dumbledore.
"Thank you, Sir. I'm sorry," Harry blinked. "I'm sorry I lost you in the process."
Dumbledore smiled at him.
"Think not of it, dear boy. Death is but the next great adventure. Now, go in with you. I believe you have a big job this evening do you not?"
Harry gaped at him and Dumbledore smiled, as the portrait swung inwards.
Gina and Harry practically ran inside.
"Draco! Draco! Hermione!" Harry gasped. The door opened to Hermione's room and Draco and Hermione stuck their heads out.
"We've done it! Harry's done it! The git's dead! Oh yes he's dead dead dead!" Gina was practically skipping. Hermione and Draco gaped at them, speechless.
Then, Hermione ran to Gina and threw her arms around her.
"I'm so, so sorry. What happened? I…"
"Hermione, stop! It doesn't matter. He didn't rape me, came very close, but at the last minute couldn't, because Harry killed him! That's all you need to know!"
"Thank you, Gena." Hermione sobbed weakly into Gina's shoulder.
"You… you saved my dream!"
At this, Gina looked significantly at Harry. Harry nodded.
"Hey, Hermione, could you bare it if we borrow Draco for a few minutes?"
"Just," Hermione said, kissing Draco passionately.
"I won't leave your site, darling," Draco kissed her back.
They walked a little way away and Gina cast a spell to fill Hermione's ears with Muggle pop music.
"All ready, Draco?"
"Yes. I have to say, well done you guys for pulling this off,"
"Draco, you and Hermione will be so happy we know it."
"Hey, this is Hermione's way more than mine. She deserves it."
"That's sure enough right!"
"Do you have it?"
Draco removed a small box from his pocket.
"Good. I'd get the courage to do that part, now. Then, you and she both need to sleep."
Draco didn't need telling twice. He turned and walked fast back to Hermione.
Gina lifted the spell, as she and Harry left.
"Wow it's been a long night," Harry yawned.
"Yeah, but Riddle truly is gone this time. Dead before dawn, so you've nothing to worry about."
Harry smiled.
"Hey, I just have one question, Gina?"
"Fire away?"
"Well, it's just, when Riddle was torturing her mentally, He reminded her her dream had been stolen before. But you modified her memory. How does she still remember it?"
"Sometimes, in situations of great trauma and stress, memory charms can be broken. Riddle broke it a little last night. However, he died, the memory died with him!"
"Yes! Brilliant!" Harry smiled again at the amazing Healer.
"See you at 10, then?"
Count on it, and well done again!"
Gina smiled, and then walked away.
Back in her room, Draco walked in and sat next to Hermione. He held her hands in his.
"I love you, Hermione Granger. I really really do."
"I love you too, Draco Malfoy. I really really do."
Draco smiled.
"Hermione, can I ask you something?"
Hermione's POV.
Oh my god! Is he going to ask me what I think he is? Of course I'll say yes, but I wish I could have my dream wedding, or near as possible that Gina spoke about.
General POV.
"Sure," Hermione said, trying to keep her voice steady.
Draco knelt on one knee in front of her.
"Hermione Jane Granger, will you marry me?"
He opened the box. Hermione gasped. The ring was solid gold with diamonds all over it.
"Yes, Draco," she whispered, "yes, I will."
Draco gently slipped the ring on her finger then kissed her long and passionately.
He climbed on the bed beside her and held her close, as they both drifted off to sleep, overcome with happiness.
At 11AM, Hermione woke to find Draco gone. However, before she could think about it, she gasped. Her room was covered in flowers. Flowers her mother had loved. Hermione walked over to the table, stunned. There were also flowers on the end of the bed, on the cupboards, everywhere. Then, she saw a letter on the table. She grabbed it and read.
To my dearest, dearest wife to be.
I was wondering if you'd like to come to dinner with me tonight at 7PM. Moonlit and all. I would love to celebrate our engagement.
For this meal, you will have some beauty dressers from the Ministry come over to help you. I know how beautiful you love looking, so I am paying for this just for us. No objections, please.
Also, when you're ready, you will be taken to the location, blindfolded. Please, don't ask why, you'll see in due course.
I love you, so so much and can't wait to marry you.
See you at 7 darling, missing you already.
With true love always and forever,
Draco.
Hermione could hardly keep down her excitement. Just then, right on cue, there was a knock on the door and three ladies entered.
"Good morning, Miss. Granger, or I understand, soon to be Mrs. Malfoy?"
Hermione blushed, but nodded happily.
"We understand you have a romantic dinner with him tonight. I'm Sarah and my colleagues Kate and Anna are here to help you get ready."
Hermione squeaked with excitement and happiness.
"Take your time, we'll be here as long as you need us," Sarah said with a kind smile.
Hermione jumped in a nice long hot bath. She wanted to get rid of last night in every way, which included off her body.
When she got out, Sarah helped her do her hair. It was 12PM when Hermione got out of the bath.
At 3PM, Hermione's hair was perfect. She smiled at Sarah.
"Wow, dear. You look gorgeous! Anyone would think you were going to get married tonight!"
Hermione just smiled, not quite registering the words.
Then, Kate helped her into a beautiful white suit. The jacket and skirt were white, with gold in them. It took another 3 hours to get make up etc done.
It was now 6PM.
Anna did the makeover part.
"Hermione, you look absolutely gorgeous! Mr. Malfoy is going to fall over!"
"Now Hermione, it's time for you to go, so we need to put a blindness spell on you as Mr. Malfoy asks. OK?"
"Sure," Hermione squeaked, she was practically shaking.
The spell was cast and her eyes went completely blank. She couldn't see a thing.
Suddenly, there was a knock on the door.
"Hi Hermione, it's Gina. Are you ready?"
Gina came over and gently helped Hermione up.
"You look absolutely stunning!"
"Thank you, Gina."
"Have a lovely evening," the ladies smiled at her.
"Thank you," said Hermione faintly, as the 3 of them disapporated.
"Ok, Hermione, let's go." Gina gently took Hermione's arm. She guided her out of Hogwarts. Once in the grounds, Gena took her close and they disapporated.
The first thing Hermione heard was the splashing of water. She felt a gentle breeze on the back of her neck.
They stopped and Gina raised her wand.
"Hermione, you need to trust me here ok? I know you can't see anything, but you really need to trust me."
"Ok," Hermione squeaked.
Gina flicked her wand and Hermione felt something happening to her clothes, even though she wasn't sure what.
"Ok, you ready?"
Hermione nodded shaking slightly and Gena led her forward.
Suddenly they stopped and Hermione heard a voice she knew instantly.
"Hermione, may I have your arm?" It was Harry.
Hermione held out her arm and Harry took it. What the heck, she thought. He's wearing what feels like a suit jacket.
Harry held her arm tight as they walked up what felt like a slope. Then, she felt them step onto something. She felt the ground move a little as she stepped, but Harry's arm was secure.
"Ok Hermione, it's time."
Harry flicked his wand. Hermione's sight was partially returned to her and she gasped, unable to believe her eyes.
They were standing on the deck of a boat. A beautiful private cruise ship. Hermione gasped. She leant against Harry, not quite believing this. Harry gently led her down some steps, into the boats main cabin.
It was huge, with a thick carpet on the floor.
Suddenly, Hermione remembered what Gina had done to her clothes. She looked down and gasped again.
She was in a beautiful white wedding dress, covered in gold.
"No way," she squeaked, "this isn't happening, it can't be!"
Harry tenderly smiled.
Suddenly, here comes the bride began to play.
"Are you ready?" Harry asked Hermione.
She nodded.
"Wait just a second, Harry?"
"Take your time, Hermione."
"Could you pinch me, please? I want to make sure I'm not dreaming."
Instead, Harry hugged her tight.
Hermione had been right about Harry. He was dressed in a Muggle suit and tie. Black suit, white shirt, with a silk grey tie, black shoes and a gold tie pin.
Shaking, Hermione walked down the middle of the cabin. She could see flowers everywhere.
"Hermione, I need to let you know, the spell hasn't been entirely lifted yet. You can see me and things around you, but not people."
"Ok," Hermione managed.
They reached the front of the boat, just as the wedding march stopped.
"You look absolutely amazing," came a soft voice in her ear. She leant forward and came into contact with another man in a suit and tie.
"DD Draco?"
He smiled and held her hands in his.
Then, something happened that nearly made Hermione faint.
"We are gathered here in front of these witnesses, family and friends of Hermione Granger and Draco Malfoy to join them in the loving act of marriage."
Hermione gasped. She knew that voice, so well!
"Mark?" She whispered, "Mark?"
This was it. Harry flicked his wand and Hermione's site was fully returned. There, standing in front of her was Mark. Her and her parents Minister in church.
He stepped forward and hugged her tightly, as tears left her eyes.
"Hey, Hermione, don't cry at your wedding, you'll smudge your makeup!"
The voice made Hermione look around. Just as she did, a cheer erupted from the front of the cabin. Hermione nearly did go down in a faint. There, were about fifty of her Muggle friends she'd known before Hogwarts, who she'd kept in touch with! How they'd been traced up, she didn't know.
"Sandra, Jacki, Mel?" Hermione was stunned.
"Hey there, Mrs. Malfoy to be," shouted Mel.
Draco took her in his arms and she let her tears go.
"Gina," she said softly. "She was asking me all this stuff about my dream wedding, for this! Oh, Draco!"
He hugged her tightly.
"You're so gorgeous Hermione; I love you so so so much."
Hermione couldn't speak.
"Mark, Mark, can I just have two seconds?"
The Minister smiled.
"Hermione, dear, this is your wedding day. You take your time. Or should I say," he added smiling, "wedding night."
Hermione ran to Gina and threw her arms around her. Gina had been standing just behind Hermione, along with Sandra, Jacki and Mel, who were Hermione's best pre Hogwarts friends. They were all in gorgeous Brides Maid dresses.
"You are my second Mother," Hermione whispered to Gina, holding her tight. "I love you, so much!"
Gina smiled.
"Feelings mutual Hermione, I love you too."
"Gina, please, did you know my mother?"
Gina smiled.
"Yes dear, I did. But come on now sweet, you've got a wedding to attend I believe?"
Hermione was still in a state of shock. This was all so perfect. Sure, her parents weren't there, but Gena had gone to such efforts. This was as near her dream as possible.
Hermione faced Draco and Mark once more. Draco took her hands in his once more, as the ceremony started.
"I now pronounce you man and wife; you may now kiss the bride."
Draco took her close and their first kiss as husband and wife was slow, gentle and passionate.
Suddenly, as Draco kissed her, Hermione realized something. The floor under her feat was vibrating! The boats engine had started up!
Hermione still couldn't register this. Some of her favourite Muggle songs started up and people began talking. Hermione was surrounded instantly by all her friends.
"How, how?" She managed to choke out.
"Aah, Hermione. Your husband and best friend are clever people," Jackie smiled.
Hermione kept looking at Draco. He's my husband!
Suddenly, Hermione noticed yet another thing. She glanced out of one of the port wholes and saw the boat was driving through a lake she'd visited a lot with her parents.
Half way through the reception, Hermione just had to know. She walked over to where her husband, best friend and second mother were standing, smiling at her. She walked straight over to her husband.
"Mr. Malfoy?"
"Yes, Mrs. Malfoy?"
"I…" Hermione swallowed unsure of how to say this.
"You're in Muggle clothes," was the best she could manage.
Draco took his wife close and held her.
"For only you, my darling, only you."
"Can I just say, you look bloody wonderful in a suit and tie!"
"Why thank you, Madam," he pretended to bow to her. Hermione grabbed him and kissed her husband deeply.
When the music was turned up, Draco and Hermione of course had the first dance. The cabin was cleared and they danced close together in the centre of the room.
"I love this song," Hermione breathed.
"What's it called?" Draco asked, holding his wife close.
"It's by a band called Mike and the mechanics, and the songs called look across at dream land," she replied.
"I don't need to do that," Draco whispered gently, "it's here. He kissed her tenderly, as she cried with happiness into his shoulder.
After the first song, everyone joined them and the cabin was full of dancing, laughing, talking, drinking and eating people.
The food was fantastic. Gina, with the help of some Ministry friends, also Muggleborns, had got a huge selection of both Muggle and wizard food and drink.
Sandra, Jackie and Mel, along with Gina, had only been 3 of the Brides Maids. As stated before, about 50 of Hermione's friends were there and it took Hermione most of the night to talk with them all. They shared jokes, memories and good times.
"Hey, Hermione?" Her friend Amy said. "You know when I was with Colin Michaels?"
"Yeah?"
"We're getting married next month"
Hermione squealed and hugged her friend tightly.
"Oh, my gosh! You've been together since Primary school! That is so sweet! I'm so sorry I won't be there! Man that ring is gorgeous!"
"Don't worry about it, man! You'll still be on your honeymoon!"
Hermione thought for a second. If this had been planned to suit her dreams, she and Draco were cruising to Australia!
Amy smiled at her friend.
"When you get back, Mrs. Malfoy, we so have to organize a huge get together, right? All of us!"
"Heck yeah! That'd be so awesome!"
At 2AM, the boat stopped at the docks. Draco took Hermione close and kissed her gently.
Hermione knew what was coming.
Everyone said their goodbyes and again congratulated the couple. Mark was the last to get off, apart from Harry and Gina.
"Mrs. Malfoy?"
"Hey! Mark! Stop that! You've known me too long!"
Mark smiled.
"Hermione, I'd love to see you again when you return. Maybe you could come to the church one day to see me? Oh and thank you for allowing me this honour!"
Hermione grabbed him and hugged him tight.
"Didn't I promise?"
"Your dad would be so happy, Hermione. I know he's smiling down on you right now, along with your mum."
Hermione smiled.
"Thanks Mark. I owe you!"
Mark held out his hand to Draco, Draco gently shook the Minister's hand.
"Mr. Malfoy, I'm sorry I didn't get to meet you way before this."
"Oh no you're not," Hermione laughed. "You wouldn't have liked him a few years ago, trust me!"
"Aah," Mark grinned. "So you weren't childhood sweethearts then?"
"Heck no!" Hermione and Draco said together, and then laughed. Mark smiled.
"Well, I'm really happy for you both and I wish you all the happiness in the world." He stepped off the boat, as Harry and Gina came towards them.
"Have a splendid time, won't you?" Harry hugged his best friend tightly.
"Hermione, I am so so happy for you!"
Gina hugged Hermione tight, while Harry grasped Draco's hand.
"Harry, Gina?"
They both turned.
"I just wanted to thank you both so much! Without you, none of this would have happened!"
Gina and Harry smiled.
"You're more than welcome, both of you."
"I can't believe I took in and believed that rubbish about you taking notes, What a Pratt!"
Gina laughed.
"Oh I took notes alright, but for this very reason. I sent them by owl to Harry and your husband here, so they could prepare your dream wedding."
Gina hugged Hermione one last time. As she did, she quietly whispered in Hermione's ear.
"May your dream come true."
Hermione smiled widely at Gina.
"Thank you," she whispered, tears in her eyes.
"You know, I don't mind admitting, I'm a little nervous."
Gina smiled and hugged her.
"Have a wonderful time."
"Just one thing," said Harry, reappearing with two suitcases. Thought you might want these."
He smiled, as two of the crew took the cases into the private sleeping quarters.
Then, he and Gina stepped off the boat.
About a minute later, the engine restarted. Hermione had been right!
Draco walked across and gently took her close against him.
"You looked wonderful tonight, Mrs. Malfoy."
"Whoever would have dreamed," Hermione said, with a shaky smile. Then he leant in to kiss her.
They walked out onto the deck for a while, looking down into the perfectly still water.
"Draco?"
"Yes, my darling wife?"
"I just want to take this opportunity to say how much I love you and how sorry I am for all the rubbish we had to go through to get here."
Draco took her against him and kissed her long and tenderly.
"Hermione, if it led me here, I would go through anything."
"You are so romantic, Draco Malfoy! Anyone would think we were married!"
"Hmmm, we should do that sometime."
They kissed passionately once more.
Eventually, Hermione put her arms around her husband. They walked back into the main cabin, then down some steps to the very nice sleeping quarters.
There was one king sized bed in the centre and a door leading to a big and spacious bathroom.
Quietly, Hermione and Draco undressed then climbed into bed. Draco took her close.
"Look into my eyes, Mrs. Malfoy."
Hermione raised her head to look into her husband's gorgeous grey eyes.
"I love you, more than you'll ever ever know."
"I love you too," she whispered, snuggling closer to him than ever before.
Gently, they began to kiss. Hermione could feel electricity running through her body. This was it! It was time!
At that moment, the cabin lights dimmed to a romantic low. A voice suddenly spoke through a speaker in the cabin. Gentle and quiet, so as not to disturb them.
"Dear Mr. and Mrs. Malfoy.
I would just like to briefly welcome you aboard this ship, taking you to Australia. I wish you all the happiness in the world for the wedding and the rest of your lives.
If you need anything at all, just press the button in your cabin or in the upper quarters and we will be glad to help.
We are here for you for the six weeks for you aboard this ship. At your service, day or night.
A good night to you both and enjoy your wedding night.
Hermione smiled and cuddled into Draco.
"I'm sure we will," she whispered.
"I know we will," he whispered back.
"I won't hurt you, darling, I promise." Draco whispered as he kissed her.
"I know, darling," she whispered back.
Draco gently climbed on top of Hermione.
"Darling Draco, I take it you guessed what my dream was? The one I was so desperate to keep?"
"Yes, my dear one. You wanted to wait till you were married, before losing your virginity. I completely understand. Problem is I don't think I can wait any longer."
"Better marry me then," she joked.
"Yeah, guess I'd better."
She smiled and kissed him.
"As I've already said, I won't hurt you, I promise. "Are you ready?" He whispered gently to her.
"Yes, Draco. I'm ready. I've done it. I've waited till marriage. You, Draco Malfoy, my dear dear husband, take all of me."
"Hermione, I am honoured to be the man to fulfil your dreams. I love you."
"Whoever would have thought it would be you," she smiled. "I love you too. Forever."
"Forever," he whispered back.
Hermione surrendered completely to her husband's tender kisses, words and touch. He was so gentle, so understanding, took it at just the speed she allowed. He treated her like the virgin she was.
She responded, and before long, she felt Draco gently push into her. It was bliss. There was a bit of pain and blood, but it was worth it.
After it was over, Hermione just lay there, as Draco gently wiped the blood away. His touch made her shiver slightly. She couldn't believe she'd finally done it. A few seconds later, she felt him lay back at her side and felt her husband hold her close, as she held him.
"Are you alright, darling?
"Never been better," she smiled into his face, as they kissed.
"Well, that's it," Hermione said quietly into the low lit cabin.
The boats engine vibrated peacefully beneath them.
"What's what, darling?"
"My wait is over. My longing, my desiring, all of it is over. To you, my beloved husband, Draco Malfoy, my dream has finally come true."
