Visions of You

by Ace of House Slytherin

They won the war, but things didn't go exactly as expected. It was all too much for Hermione so she left and started a new life where no one would find her. No one but the creation of her own mind. In an attempt to fix herself, Hermione returns to attempt the impossible. To go back and change everything.

14. Holiday

A/N: This certainly took longer than I wanted it to, but it is my longest chapter to date, which I suppose is something of an accomplishment. Thank you for the reviews and follows, they continue to encourage me to actually write and not just play out scenarios in my head.

I wish you all well and I hope you enjoy this chapter!

"I can't believe you, Hermione!" Ron exclaimed, drawing a few glances from the other Gryffindors in the Common Room.

"Oh, grow up, Ronald!" she shouted back, storming out of the Common Room.

She knew he wouldn't like the fact that she wasn't spending Christmas with him, and she especially knew he wouldn't like that she was spending it with Draco. For whatever reason, he was incredibly jealous of any guy that Hermione talked to. She didn't understand why, she didn't ever give him an indication that she liked him or anyone. He had no right to be jealous of anyone that she talked to. Never mind the fact that he had been a total arse for the ball, moping the whole time because he had waited until the last minute to ask someone, and that Hermione had already said she would go with someone. Hermione wouldn't have agreed to go with him, not after how he had been acting since Harry was declared a Hogwarts champion.

The whole situation annoyed her to no end and she wondered why she put up with any of it at all. She was smarter than this, she could do more than keep Harry and Ron alive through their harebrained schemes only to be caught between them like a piece of meat. Hermione felt her fists clenching as she walked, her footsteps more aggressive. Suddenly remembering herself, she stopped in her tracks, taking a deep breath and forcing herself to relax. She looked around, the shores of the Black Lake inviting despite the cold.

"Strange how I keep ending up here," she mused to herself aloud.

The water rippled outward from a spot Hermione couldn't see, and she felt calmer as the waves rhythmically lapped at the shore. She wasn't sure how the lake wasn't frozen over, but it never had in all the years she had attended Hogwarts. For some reason, she felt like it was a lot more than four years. Foregoing a warming charm, she made herself comfortable on the ground, pulling her knees to her chest and resting her chin on them as she watched the waves caress the shore. She pulled the silver raven out of her pocket, setting it on the ground and stroking its wings. She closed her eyes as she listened to its song, thoughts of a dark-haired girl quickly pervading her mind. She was sitting next to Hermione in front of a piano, practicing a piece Hermione could remember learning. Hermione watched as she played it slowly, a slight frown on her face as she focused on the notes. Her fingers were nimble and she moved them purposefully, and Hermione couldn't help the smile emerging on her face as she watched the girl play. In all the years she had dreamed about her, she never learned her name.

Hermione opened her eyes when the song finished, scooping the raven into her hand as she stood up and made her way back to the castle. She tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear as she turned into the wind, looking up at the large castle. With a slightly empty feeling, she trudged up to the castle, storing the raven back in its pocket. Though it was still early in the evening, most students were escaping the cold by holing up in their Common Room. To continue avoiding the sources of her irritation, Hermione turned instead to the Great Hall for an early dinner. She couldn't wait to leave tomorrow because although she loved Hogwarts, its current inhabitants were driving her mad.

---

"So, are you ready for an awesome Christmas holiday?" Draco asked excitedly as they walked toward Hogsmeade together.

"I'm definitely excited for a break, but I'm a little nervous about meeting your family. What if they don't like me?" Hermione asked, doubt creeping in for the first time since Draco had invited her.

"They'll absolutely adore you," Draco said, waving his hand as if her statement was ridiculous.

"If you say so," Hermione mumbled, not entirely convinced.

Draco's confidence wasn't easy to shake off by any means, and soon she was in a much more optimistic mood. As they boarded the train, Hermione could swear Ron was following them, so she grabbed Draco's hand and pulled him into the crowd, hoping to through the other boy off their trail. She was not in the mood for an altercation with either of her other two friends. Draco was complacent enough to allow himself to be dragged through the crowd, doing his best to avoid bumping into anyone by twisting his body around. When they were safely on the train, Hermione let go, and Draco straightened his robes, stifling giggles. Hermione rolled her eyes at him but couldn't hide the smile on her face as she followed him to a compartment. She felt weird not having to worry about any luggage overhead, but it had already been taken to Malfoy Manor earlier that morning.

Sitting across from Draco in silence was perhaps one of the things she enjoyed the most about their friendship. Unlike with Harry and Ron, Draco understood the necessity of companionable silence and never felt the need to fill the air with words. It was a reprieve she intended to take full advantage of, leaning her head back and turning it to watch the countryside roll by. Draco was content to read through a book about magical creatures, stretching his legs out on the seat and resting the book in his lap. Hermione could feel questions bubbling to the forefront of her mind, but decided against asking, wanting to experience what Draco's family was like for herself instead of asking questions. As she watched the land roll by, Hermione felt her eyelids getting heavier, until they grew too heavy to hold open and she drifted to sleep.

Hermione dreamt she was standing back at Hogsmeade, this time next to the dark-haired girl, waving goodbye to a similar-looking girl. Upon closer inspection, Hermione realized they must be sisters, but not twins because the one they were waving goodbye to was definitely younger. Her eyes and hair were also a bit lighter than her older sister's. Hermione felt more herself standing next to the dark-haired girl in a dream than she had ever felt in her life. They waved goodbye, the two of them turning back to the castle, their arms linked together. The warmth from the girl felt so real, Hermione almost wasn't sure if she was dreaming at all, but as the image started to fade she knew it was.

"Hermione, the train is pulling into the station," Draco said gently, shaking her shoulder considerately so he didn't startle her.

"I fell asleep?" Hermione asked, still groggy as she woke herself up.

"Yeah, for most of the ride," he said, noticing her slight frown, "What's wrong?"

Hermione glanced out the window, mumbling, "Just a strange dream."

Draco nodded, not pressing the issue. When they were fully stopped, he offered her a hand up, pulling her to her feet. They both had the same idea of getting off the train as quickly as they could to avoid an encounter with Ron or Harry, who had made up enough to spend Christmas together. Luckily, they made it onto the platform without incident and Draco scanned the crowd for his mother while Hermione glanced around to make sure she didn't catch sight of either of the two wizards she desperately wanted to avoid. Spotting his mother, he grabbed Hermione's arm and pulled her through the crowded platform, the brunette nearly tripping as she struggled to match his pace. She wanted to at least try to make a good impression on Draco's family.

"Draco, slow down," Hermione said, pulling against the young man tugging her across the platform.

Surprised at the brunette's strength, Draco slowed his pace to allow Hermione to catch up, his cheeks slightly pink as he mumbled, "Sorry."

"I'd like to make a good impression on your family, I can't exactly do that if I'm falling all over myself," Hermione chuckled.

"That would be quite the first impression," Narcissa said with a friendly smile as she approached her son and Hermione.

"And certainly not the type I'd like to make, Madame Malfoy," Hermione said, nodding her head, "I'm Hermione."

"We've heard so much about you, please, call me Narcissa. Or Cissa. Whichever you prefer," Narcissa said, placing her hand in Hermione's.

"I feel I'm at a disadvantage, then. Draco hasn't exactly been forthcoming with details," Hermione said, subtly shooting Draco a glare.

"And here I was thinking you wanted to experience my family for yourself," he retorted, rolling his eyes and kissing his mother on the cheek.

"It's no matter," Narcissa said, holding out her arm, "There will be plenty of time to discover who we are."

Hermione placed her hand next to Draco's on Narcissa's arm and a disorienting and dizzying sensation overwhelmed her. When her vision stopped spinning, she looked up at a mansion, barely catching herself before her jaw dropped to the floor.

"Wow," she breathed as they stepped through the doors, looking around at the expensive but tasteful decor.

"It is quite impressive. Thankfully, my sister had the sense to let me take care of the aesthetics," Narcissa said, smiling down at Hermione.

"Your sister?" Hermione asked, taken aback.

"I have two of them, but we moved in with my oldest sister when Lucius was arrested," Narcissa replied.

Hermione felt her cheeks flush in embarrassment. "I'm sorry, I had no idea."

"It's okay. It was some time ago, and as much as I loved him, I'd much rather live here, where I grew up, than a home that belongs to a family I married into. And I'm immensely grateful for my sisters' support. Now, I hate to do this, but I'm afraid I must steal Draco away for a bit. You are free to explore the grounds and this floor of the house. If you need anything at all, just ask and a house-elf will take care of it," Narcissa paused, noticing Hermione about to say something, "And yes, all our house-elves are employees, not servants."

Hermione felt her cheeks color again, mumbling, "Thank you, Narcissa, I'm sure I'll be fine until you're finished."

With a nod and a smile, Narcissa swept out of the room, Draco offering a wave goodbye as he followed her. Hermione looked around the room she was currently in, debating exploring the grounds but deciding against it in favor of exploring the house. She picked a direction, fairly certain that either way she chose would eventually lead her back to the room she was in. She walked slowly through the house, admiring the paintings on the walls as she went. She opened each door she came across, finding a surprising amount of rooms meant for entertaining company or enjoying the sun. Although they were inviting, Hermione was too curious to give up wandering the house to sit down. She paused for a moment in front of a window in the corridor, looking out at the grounds, beautiful despite the weather. With a smile, she returned to her exploration of the house, opening a door that led her to what she presumed to be the library, if the walls of bookshelves were any indication. She stared in awe at the vast amount of books, abandoning her wandering in favor of combing through as much as she could while she had time. She pulled a book off the shelf at random, settling down in a chair to lose herself in its pages.

---

Bellatrix breathed a sigh of relief as she finally finished working for the day. She was looking forward to her time off for the next few weeks, but more than that, she was looking forward to seeing Hermione. It had been a shorter day than usual for her because she was excited to return home, even though she was unlikely to see anyone until dinner. Bellatrix took long strides through the ministry to the floos, her pace quickening the closer she got. She didn't register any of the nods or calls to her, which wasn't an uncommon occurrence as she was often deep in thought. Everyone knew better than to take it personally, especially when they were close enough to notice the concentration on her face. She grabbed a handful of floo powder when she reached the floo, stepping into it and letting the powder go as she uttered the name of her home.

Bellatrix smiled as she emerged in Black Manor, hanging her scarf up by the floo. She let the fabric fall through her fingers, the battered silver and green fabric worn out, but she refused to let Narcissa get her a new one. With a deep inhale, Bellatrix opened her arms, releasing her breath in a contented sigh. Running a hand through her wild curls, she made her way to the library, deciding to read until dinner while she had the time. Upon entering the library, she was surprised to find it occupied, stopping in her tracks as she recognized Hermione's brunette curls from behind, even though it had been years.

"Hermione," she whispered, her voice catching in her throat but drawing the attention of the young witch.

"I hope it's okay," Hermione said, stopping when she had turned around enough to get a glimpse of the person who had entered.

She would recognize her anywhere, even though she was older. Hermione stared at her while she stared at Hermione, both in shock upon finding the other in the library. At seeing the dark-haired with, Hermione couldn't help but find herself falling into what she now knew must be a memory of a pale, dark-haired girl offering her a hand up.

"Bella," Hermione breathed, the memory of her name finally falling into place as her book fell to the floor.

Bellatrix couldn't help the tears that had started leaking down her face as she whispered, "You remember me?"

Hermione stood up, approaching the witch she had spent years remembering without even knowing, "As if I could ever forget you."

Bellatrix smiled softly at Hermione, mumbling, "I suppose I should have known better, but I couldn't think of a way that you would."

"I've dreamt about you every night of my life. Sometimes when I'm awake. I should have known they were more than dreams," Hermione said, reaching up to brush away Bellatrix's tears.

"It feels weird, doesn't it?" Bellatrix asked, brushing her thumbs across Hermione's cheeks to wipe away her tears.

Hermione pondered over memories she shouldn't be able to have because she hadn't lived them, but she knew without a doubt that they belonged. "A little."

"It's good to finally see you again, Hermione," Bellatrix smiled, her hands still cupping Hermione's face.

"I'm so proud of you, Bella," Hermione said, throwing her arms around Bellatrix.

Bellatrix chuckled, taking a small step back so she didn't lose her balance. She let her arms fall around Hermione, whose cheeks had turned red as she pulled back a little. Bellatrix laughed harder at this, keeping her arms around Hermione loosely so the brunette could pull away if she wanted to. Hermione stared up at her for a few moments that stretched between them, feeling like hours but only lasting for mere seconds.

"How about we sit and catch up?" Bellatrix suggested, gesturing to the chairs.

The two spent hours sitting in the library talking, and before they knew it, Narcissa and Draco were joining them in the library. By that point, Bellatrix and Hermione had both taken up a book and become engrossed in the knowledge they contained. They were oblivious to the arrival of the two until Narcissa pointedly cleared her throat.

"I take it you two have become acquainted, then?" Narcissa asked with a slight smirk on her face, "I hope my sister wasn't too much for you, Hermione."

"Oh, erm, not at all," Hermione said, her cheeks flushing as she glanced nervously at Bellatrix.

"Hello to you, too, Cissy," Bellatrix said, giving her sister an affectionate but suspicious look.

Her sister merely smiled innocently, taking a seat on an empty chair.

"Auntie Bella!" Draco exclaimed, throwing his arms around his beloved aunt.

"Hello, Draco. It's good to see you. How's school?" she asked, hugging him without getting up.

"Hermione is beating me in every subject, but I'm secured in second," he said, sending Hermione a playful glare.

Hermione simply stuck her tongue out at him from behind the cover of her book, not offering any other response.

"Well she certainly reads more than you do," Bellatrix said, "No wonder she's kicking your arse."

"She's not," Draco protested.

"Oh please, we both know I'm untouchable," Hermione chimed in, her cheeks starting to turn pink.

"And we both know the only reason Gryffindor always wins the house cup is because Dumbledore is obsessed with Harry," Draco responded.

"I can't argue with that one," Hermione shrugged.

"Careful with this one," Bellatrix warned, "She's not as much of a Gryffindor as she seems. There's a good bit of Slytherin in there, too."

"I would expect nothing less from anyone who can put up with Draco," Narcissa said, smiling affectionately at her son.

"She gets me into trouble more than I get her into trouble!" Draco protested.

"I can't argue with that, either. Though if it's any consolation, Draco, it's getting Harry out of trouble that usually gets us into trouble," Hermione said idly, most of her attention on the paragraph she was reading.

"And what kind of trouble would that be?" Narcissa asked with a raised brow and stern tone.

Hermione and Draco shared a look, both of them visibly nervous at the question. They both fumbled around for an answer that wouldn't earn them a lecture. Bellatrix watched with amusement as her nephew and Hermione came up empty-handed.

"Oh, relax, Cissy. I'm sure it's no worse than what we got into when we were children," Bellatrix said, sending the two teenagers a wink.

"What kind of trouble did you get into?" Draco asked, grateful for the save and excited to hear stories of his aunt and mother's time at Hogwarts.

"Well," Bellatrix began, "When Cissy was a second-year-"

"Bella!" Narcissa hissed, effectively cutting her off and causing her to descend into a fit of laughter.

"Did we miss the punchline?" Andromeda asked, entering the library, "Sorry we're late."

"Auntie Andy!" Draco exclaimed, running in for a hug.

She chuckled as she returned his hug, catching sight of Hermione. She winked at her over Draco's shoulder, earning a wave in return.

"This must be Hermione," she said, walking over and giving her a chaste hug, "I'm Andromeda. Also known as Andy."

"Wotcher Aunt Cissa, Aunt Bella, Draco," Nymphadora greeted, "Hi, Hermione. I'm Nymphadora, but please call me Tonks."

"It's nice to meet you both," Hermione said.

"She was a seventh year when we were first years, and now she's an Auror," Draco explained.

"I thought you looked familiar, but I wasn't sure," Hermione said, studying her face. She had often seen her sitting in the library studying.

Andromeda hugged her two sisters while Nymphadora said, "Yeah, we both spent a lot of time in the library. But you always looked like you were plotting something big."

Hermione's cheeks turned pink and she mumbled, "I was not plotting, I was planning."

"I guess it's a good thing you're a Gryffindor and not a Slytherin, then. Otherwise, they're one and the same," Nymphadora teased.

"Like I told Draco, Hermione is much more of a Slytherin than she seems at first glance," Bellatrix said, interrupting Hermione's attempt at a response, "But now that we're all here, let's eat."

---

Hermione looked around the expansive bedroom, feeling small in such a large space. Her parents were well off, but the type of luxury she was surrounded by was almost dumbfounding, especially after seeing how Ron and his family lived. She wondered why his family, though pure-blooded, was much less fortunate than Bellatrix's family. Feeling a little awkward in the room, Hermione decided to wander the corridors for a bit while most everyone else was likely sleeping. With a robe pulled tightly around her to stave off the chill, she let her feet carry her through the halls, stopping to look out the windows to admire the falling snow. It was in front of one of these windows that she found Bellatrix. She was gazing out the window, wrapped in a green bed robe, watching the snowfall with a slightly sad expression.

"Bella?" Hermione asked, approaching quietly.

Bellatrix startled, relaxing when she saw it was Hermione. "What are you doing wandering around?"

"My room felt too big," Hermione admitted with a blush, "Is everything okay?"

"I was just thinking." Bellatrix raised her arm, inviting Hermione to her side.

"About what?" Hermione couldn't help her curiosity as she moved closer, Bellatrix's arm draping across her shoulder and pulling her against her side.

Bellatrix leaned her cheek against Hermione's, murmuring, "Sometimes I just think about what it would've been like to grow up with you."

"I wish we could've," Hermione whispered, tilting her head up, causing Bellatrix to move her head.

Hermione looked up at Bellatrix, relearning her features. Her cheekbones were more defined and Hermione could feel the lean but defined muscle where their bodies were pressed together. Her expression was soft as she fondly admired Hermione admiring her.

"You're so beautiful," Hermione breathed, her eyes tracing over every inch of Bellatrix's face.

"So are you. Come on," Bellatrix responded, grabbing Hermione's hand and giving it a gentle tug, "I wanna show you something."

Hermione allowed herself to be led, relishing in the sensation of Bellatrix's hand in her own. She couldn't help the large smile on her face as she walked hand-in-hand with Bellatrix. She had no idea where Bellatrix was taking her, but she wasn't worried about anything bad happening. Bellatrix smiled at her as she pushed open a door, revealing a crimson grand piano in the center of the room. Hermione felt her jaw drop as she let go of Bellatrix's hand to move closer to it, dragging her fingertips over the smooth red surface.

"This isn't very Slytherin of you," Hermione mumbled, earning a laugh from Bellatrix that made her heart flip in her chest.

"I never stopped practicing," Bellatrix admitted, sitting at the bench and placing her hands on the keys.

She began with Moonlight Sonata, scooting over when Hermione joined her on the bench, all without missing a note. Hermione smiled adoringly at the witch she missed so much without even knowing her. Bellatrix shifted to Fur Elise, joined by Hermione. Bellatrix glanced at Hermione, smiling at her with slightly pink cheeks. Hermione chuckled, leaning against Bellatrix as the older witch continued to play. She felt her eyes drifting closed as Bellatrix's skilled playing lulled her to sleep. The older witch continued to play without jostling Hermione until she was certain the brunette was sound asleep. As the last notes echoed through the room, Bellatrix scooped Hermione into her arms and carried the young witch back to her room. She cradled her close to her chest as she did, tucking her into bed and leaving after placing a peck on her forehead.

---

Hermione groaned, turning her face into the pillow her arm was thrown over. Everything was impossibly comfortable and she couldn't remember ever sleeping so well. As her brain gradually woke, Hermione scrunched her brow, certain she had not fallen asleep in her room and wondering how she had gotten here. Pushing herself up from the bed, the pieces fell into place, a blush and smile formed on her face as she realized Bellatrix must have tucked her in.

Aside from her school robes, Muggle clothes were all Hermione had, and she was a little hesitant to wear them around Draco's family. Her school robes were just as ill-suited, so she decided to at least be comfortable. When she arrived in the dining room, she was pleasantly surprised to find Bellatrix dressed in Muggle clothes. She couldn't help the snicker that passed her lips at the sight, especially when she also saw Narcissa and Draco dressed in similar fashion.

"I never expected to see any of you in Muggle clothes, but they definitely suit you," Hermione said, sitting in a chair at the table.

"It's been a tradition ever since Bella became head of the family. I have to admit it's grown on me," Narcissa explained.

"I took a trip to Muggle London for Christmas in my fourth year. It was my inspiration for the tradition," Bellatrix said, winking at Hermione.

"Well, I love it. So you wear Muggle clothes the whole holiday?"

"Except for Christmas shopping. We all dress up and make an entire day out of it," Draco said excitedly, digging into the stack of pancakes that appeared on his plate.

"What do you usually do for Christmas, Hermione?" Narcissa asked, shooting her son an admonishing look.

"Normally I spend it with my parents. Sometimes we take a trip, sometimes we don't. They had a conference to attend this year, so I was originally going to spend it with Ron and Harry at the Burrow, but-"

Draco cut her off, "But they're both being absolute knobs."

"Draco!" Narcissa scolded while Bellatrix just laughed.

"No, he's right. They're being absolute knobs. They've been arguing ever since Harry became champion and they put me right in the middle of it. And they made amends with each other but neither of them has apologized to me so I'd rather not spend Christmas holiday with them. I was really glad when Draco invited me here."

"Well, we're more than happy to have you here," Bellatrix announced.

"Thank you," Hermione said, hiding her blush by looking down at her breakfast.

"So, Hermione, what would you like to do today?" Draco asked.

"Well, I'd definitely love to spend more time in the library," she admitted, "But I'd also love to explore the grounds."

"You should come back over the summer to explore the grounds, that's when they're prettiest," Narcissa suggested.

"What do you want to do, Draco?" Hermione asked.

Draco shrugged. "Normally I just spend time with everyone. Oh! I have an idea! Mum, could we explore Malfoy Manor? Please?"

Narcissa stiffened, halting her fork halfway to her mouth. "I don't know, Draco."

"Please," he begged, stretching out the word, "You promised when I'm older I could go, and Hermione will be with me. Together we're indomitable."

"Oh, let them go, Cissy. No one has access to the property and I'm sure they'll be careful and not touch anything with bare hands," Bellatrix said, fixing them both with a cautionary look.

Narcissa sighed, knowing it was useless to try to talk them out of it, "Very well, but please be careful. And be back for lunch or I'll have the Aurors out in full force."

"Yes, mum," Draco said, winking at Hermione.

Hermione disguised her laugh behind a sip of juice, looking between her three companions. Bellatrix looked amused, Narcissa looked defeated but still happy, and Draco looked excited. She was excited, too. If all the pureblood families had libraries, she was certain to find one at Malfoy Manor, and the slight thrill of going somewhere so unknown appealed to her more dangerous side. Quickly, she and Draco finished breakfast, saying their goodbyes to the two witches. Bellatrix made them each take a pair of dragonhide gloves and promise to wear them the entire time. The expensive material felt odd in Hermione's hands, but she put them on without resistance, knowing it was the condition that allowed them to go in the first place. Draco led her to the floo, insisting they go through together just in case. Hermione pulled the sleeve of her jumper over her hand, covering her mouth and nose as Draco announced their destination and green flames engulfed them.

Malfoy Manor was in decent shape for not having been lived in for at least a decade. It was darker than they thought it would be, and since they were both technically underage, their wands would not be an option. Hermione moved over to the only window in the room, pulling open the moth-eaten curtain to allow light into the room that they now could see was a study. Books on herbs and potioneering lay open on the desk, forgotten and dusty. Draco dragged a gloved finger over the desk, observing the thick layer of dust that had accumulated. Suddenly, he sneezed, causing Hermione to jump in surprise. They looked at each other, bursting into laughter at her skittishness.

"Did your dad make potions?" Hermione asked, gesturing to the open books on the desk.

"I'm not sure. I don't remember much about him. It seems like it would be more of my mother's hobby," he said, flipping through the pages.

"This must've been her study," Hermione cast her eyes around the room, "I wonder why she stopped."

Draco squinted in an attempt to read some of the scribblings in one of the books. "I'm not sure that she has. I've seen copies of these books at Auntie Bella's. I'm at school half the year, there's no telling how she keeps herself busy, especially while Auntie Bella is at work."

Hermione observed a glass cabinet, trying to peer through the dust to see what was inside. "Does she hate your father that much that she doesn't want anything to do with her stuff?"

"I don't think she hates him. I don't think she wants to face the reminder of the life she might've had if Auntie Bella hadn't been there. She hasn't been back since he was arrested. Maybe she's forgotten about this stuff." Draco turned his head to Hermione. "What's in there?"

"No idea," Hermione said, trying to pull the cabinet open, only to be met with resistance, "See if there's a key in the desk, would you?"

Draco opened the drawers, searching through them methodically for the key. "Is there a latch on the side?"

Hermione dragged her fingers along the sides and bottom, finding nothing. "No. Maybe the top. Could you reach it?"

"I think so," Draco said, walking to the cabinet and standing on the tips of his toes to reach.

Hermione listened carefully for the sound of the latch, hearing a soft click and gasping, "I think you found it."

Draco gave the cabinet door an experimental tug, the glass swinging easily to the side. "Woah."

He moved aside for Hermione to see it's contents. She let out a breath of awe at the collection of potions inside, many of them ones she didn't recognize.

"Snape would be so jealous," she chuckled, grabbing one of the bottles and attempting to read the faded label.

Draco looked through the bottles, trying to find one with a legible label. "I wonder what these do."

"No idea. We should leave them be, for now, let's see what else we can find. We only have a few hours before Narcissa expects us back," Hermione suggested, placing the bottle carefully back on the shelf.

"Good idea. We can always try to come back, but just in case I'd rather explore more than this room."

Hermione grabbed a candle off the candelabra on Narcissa's desk, looking around for something to light it. She found a small piece of glass, and, placing it between the window and the candle, she was able to light the candle. Draco looked at her in amazement.

"You're bloody brilliant, you know that?"

"I have my moments," Hermione chuckled, using the lit candle to light another and handing it to Draco, "Let's go."

Draco led the way through the corridors, pushing open whatever doors they came across but rarely finding anything interesting. Despite being sure they were the only ones with access to the Manor, they crept through the corridors, careful not to make too much noise.

"Draco, we should head back soon," Hermione whispered.

He turned his head to look at her, whispering, "In a minute, I want to see what's behind this door."

"I don't think it's a good idea, Draco. I really don't want your mom sending Aurors in here because we didn't go back in time." Hermione shifted her feet, the floorboards creaking slightly.

"Did you hear that?" Draco hissed, turning his attention to the door.

"It was just me."

"No, it sounds like talking," he said, moving closer to the door and pressing his ear against it.

His eyes widened and he waved Hermione over, placing a finger to his lips. Hermione snuck over to the door, pressing her ear against the wood and straining to listen.

"Lord Malfoy, surely it isn't wise to wait until the end of the year. We should strike when they return," a quiet, weak voice said.

"You dare question me?" another voice hissed, "If we strike before the end of the year Potter will not be isolated. That is the Dark Lord's wish! He spends the summers with those cursed muggles and he will feel alone and the world will doubt his claim that the Dark Lord has finally returned! Crouch is aiding Potter in the trials so he makes it to the end. He will place the portkey in the maze and ensure Potter reaches it first!"

Hermione mouthed, "Crouch is Moody," as she and Draco shared a wide-eyed look.

Draco nodded, moving away from the door as quietly as he could, looking a little pale. Hermione followed after him, careful to avoid the spot that had creaked earlier. Neither of them spoke a word until they were back in Narcissa's study, the door closed and the desk moved in front of it as a barrier. They blew out their candles, laying them on the desk and squeezing into the floo.

When they emerged back in Black Manor, they were both pale and their faces were pulled into an expression of worry. They shared a look as Bellatrix and Narcissa swept into the room, both of them noticing the expressions on their faces.

"What happened?" Narcissa asked, immediately checking them over for injuries.

"We aren't hurt," Hermione managed as Narcissa manipulated her head left and right, "Someone else was there. They didn't know we were there, but we overheard some of what they were saying."

Bellatrix placed her hand on Narcissa's shoulder before she could respond. "Do you know who it was?"

"Wormtail- Peter Pettigrew- was one of them. I didn't recognize the other voice, but it had to be Lucius. Wormtail addressed him as 'Lord Malfoy' while they were talking about Crouch placing a portkey in the maze. It has to be one of the challenges for the tournament. They want to bring back Voldemort."

"What else did you hear?" Bellatrix asked, keeping her sister silent.

"They want to wait until the end of the year so Harry feels alone. And so that no one believes him," Draco added.

"Bella, I think the person they called Crouch is disguised as Moody. He's been teaching Unforgivables and mentoring Harry for the challenges, and he isn't acting anything like the Moody I've read about," Hermione said, biting her lip.

"Are you certain?" Bellatrix asked.

"No, but I can't think of another possibility."

Bellatrix's face was stony as she said, "Cissy, Draco, have lunch without us."

"What about Hermione?" Draco asked.

"I need her to come with me."

"Bella, what in Merlin's name are you doing?" Narcissa asked, staring at her sister as if she had lost her mind, "Hermione still has the Trace."

"She doesn't," Bellatrix said, turning to Hermione and holding out her hand to Hermione, "Do you trust me?"

"Bella!" Narcissa exclaimed, "This is ridiculous."

"I'll explain later, Cissy, I promise." Bellatrix's gaze didn't waver from Hermione's as she spoke, still holding out her hand.

Hermione looked at Narcissa and Draco uncertainly, before steeling her resolve and placing her hand in Bellatrix's. Bellatrix pulled her close, turning them on the spot and Apparating, leaving Narcissa and Draco staring at the spot they had been standing.

Hermione leaned her head against Bellatrix's shoulder as she fought the wave of nausea that roared through her at the sudden Apparition. "A little warning next time."

"Sorry," Bellatrix chuckled, wrapping her arms around Hermione's shoulders.

"What did you mean when you said I don't have the Trace? I'm not of age yet," Hermione said, feeling a little less disoriented.

"I only found out because of my research as an Unspeakable, sort of by accident. It's a little difficult to explain. How much do you remember that hasn't happened in this timeline?" As she spoke, Bellatrix guided Hermione onto a small porch, opening the door to the house and stepping inside.

"I don't know. I remember you, but I think that's it. Where are we?" Hermione looked around the small living room, taking in the lone couch and fireplace.

"A meeting spot, but don't worry, we won't be meeting anyone for a while. I just thought you'd want some privacy when I explained this to you." Bellatrix sat on the couch, patting the spot next to her.

Hermione begrudgingly sat next to her. "I remember you, but until I met you I thought it was just a dream. Is everything else I've dreamed actually just memories?"

"In 1965, I was taking a walk around the grounds, and by the Black Lake, I found a girl who called herself Hermione Granger lying unconscious. I helped her to Dumbledore's office and she disclosed she had come back about 40 years in time," Bellatrix said, pausing to allow Hermione to take in the information, "We grew close, and she told me why she came back, and what she knew of how she had done it. She taught me things they didn't teach at Hogwarts, and she helped me see that I could be the person I want to be, not the person other people wanted me to be. She made me realize that I wanted to be better than what I had become in her time."

"But, how can I remember any of that? That was a different timeline, I shouldn't have any recollection of being at Hogwarts with you, I didn't even exist!" Hermione felt herself becoming overwhelmed, her breaths growing short and shallow.

"Hermione, breathe," Bellatrix whispered, placing a soothing hand on her arm, "When I became an Unspeakable I began researching the deep magic that allowed you to travel back in time and reverted you to a younger-looking version of yourself. The same magic that did all of that transferred your memories of that life to the version of you that was born in this timeline. Everything the other version of you experienced is locked away in your mind, surfacing mostly in dreams. Incidentally, I stumbled across records from the year we were at Hogwarts together. Hermione, your magical signature was first introduced in 1965, you haven't had the Trace since you were three because it tracks the time since the magical signature was first detected, not the age of the witch or wizard. Your magical signature wasn't introduced with your birth like most witches and wizards, it was introduced fourteen years before you were born."

Hermione stared at Bellatrix with her mouth hanging open, blinking at the older witch. Her brain turned the information in her head, trying to comprehend what Bellatrix just told her. She stood from the couch abruptly, pacing the small room.

"How old am I?" Hermione asked, pressing her palms against her temples and staring at Bellatrix with wide eyes.

"Physically, you're fifteen, magically, you're twenty-nine. I know it's a lot to take in, that's why I brought you somewhere private," Bellatrix whispered, standing and sliding her hands over Hermione's, coaxing them off her head.

"That's not what I meant. I've lived an entire other life, Bella! And if my memories transferred over, is my age affected? How do I even access those memories?" Hermione's voice raised in volumes and pitch as she spoke, her hands tightening around Bellatrix's.

"I don't know, Hermione," Bellatrix whispered, "But I can cast the age-revealing charm if you want. As for the memories, I have an idea, but only if you're okay with it."

Hermione took a deep breath, trying to compose herself before she spoke again. "Okay, what do you have in mind?"

"I can try to use Legillimancy to unlock the memories. I don't know if it will work, but if you're willing to try, I am too."

"I think I need a minute," Hermione muttered.

"Take as much time as you need," Bellatrix assured, sitting on the couch, "I'll be right here."

Hermione pulled the silver raven out of her pocket, leaning against the wall and turning it in her hands. She gently ran a finger over the wings, closing her eyes as Moonlight Sonata filled the tiny room.

Bellatrix smiled, her eyes resting on Hermione as she whispered, "Do you remember when you gave that to me?"

Hermione looked up at her. "I- yes. It was right before I left."

"I gave it to you on your fifth birthday," Bellatrix said with a smile.

"I knew someone had been there! It smelled like ink and lavender and I knew it was familiar, but I didn't know why. That was the first night my dreams were memories of you." Hermione smiled fondly at the raven, glancing up at Bellatrix every now and then. "They aren't good memories, are they? I always had nightmares when I was a kid."

Bellatrix sighed, leaning against the wall next to Hermione. "Some of them won't be, and if you aren't ready, that's okay."

Hermione looked up at Bellatrix, her eyes tracing the strong profile. "I'm ready."

"I don't know if I'll be able to stop it if it gets to be too much," Bellatrix whispered, letting her head fall to the side to look at Hermione and offering her a small smile when she caught her staring.

Hermione's cheeks reddened at being caught and she mumbled, "I'm ready."

Bellatrix pushed off the wall, sitting on the floor with her back against the couch. She gestured to the spot across from her, moving her legs out of the way. Hermione sat on the floor facing Bellatrix, crossing her legs.

"Ready?" Bellatrix asked, her wand loosely in her hand.

"Ready," Hermione nodded, steeling herself as best she could.

"Legilimens!" Bellatrix cast, letting her awareness drift into Hermione's mind.

Bellatrix could feel Hermione's slight resistance, and she gave her time to adjust to having another person in her head. When Hermione's mental walls dropped, Bellatrix made her way through Hermione's memories, careful not to invade her privacy by watching the memories without permission. She could feel Hermione's thoughts pulling her into their flow, and she gently resisted, continuing to search for the memories that were restricted to her subconscious. Hermione's mental walls were impressive for not having any practice whatsoever, and Bellatrix did her best not to push too hard into Hermione's mind. Finally, she came across an area of Hermione's mind that had a different barrier than the others she had encountered. Cautiously, she reached out, pushing through the resistance she encountered. It took more effort than Bellatrix anticipated, but she finally broke through the barrier keeping those memories looked in Hermione's subconscious.

Slowly, Bellatrix pulled out of Hermione's mind as the memories returned to her, flashing through her mind at an overwhelming speed. Seeing Hermione slump, Bellatrix rushed forward, catching her and pulling her into her lap. Hermione trembled in her arms, clutching Bellatrix's shirt out of instinct. Bellatrix stroked her hair, rocking her back and forth in an attempt to soothe her. Tears leaked out of the corners of Hermione's eyes, quickly wiped away by Bellatrix as she continued to hold the shaking witch. Sobs died in Hermione's throat as she pressed her face into Bellatrix's shoulder. She was in that state for several minutes before the memories died down, holding tightly to Bellatrix the entire time.

"That was," Hermione took a deep breath, "So much."

"How are you feeling?" Bellatrix asked, wiping away the rest of Hermione's tears.

Hermione took a shuddering breath, shaking her head against Bellatrix's shoulder. Bellatrix wrapped an arm around Hermione's shoulders, rubbing her back. They stayed quiet, Hermione's breaths the only sound in the room. Bellatrix rested her chin on Hermione's head, letting her process everything she had learned.

"Bella?" Hermione mumbled into her shirt.

"Hmm?"

"I'm really glad it worked."

"Me too," Bellatrix chuckled.

Hermione laughed, wiping her eyes. "We have to stop him from coming back."

"I plan on informing the Aurors. I don't know how we haven't heard anything about Lucius escaping Azkaban, but he must have managed it somehow."

"What about Voldemort's horcruxes? We have to destroy the rest. The journal is gone but the others haven't been destroyed yet, and I have no idea where he would've hidden Hufflepuff's cup this time. Who's his most trusted now?" Hermione stood from Bellatrix's lap, moving to the couch after a brief stretch.

Bellatrix stretched her arms above her head, leaning her back over the couch. "No one. As far as I know. I'll think more about it."

"We need to find them. We need to destroy them. He'll have to come back again to fight Harry, but if we can destroy the horcruxes before he rises and takes control of everything, it will be so much easier." Hermione tried not to stare at the exposed portion of Bellatrix's abdomen, her cheeks turning slightly pink as she forced herself to look away.

"It's settled, then. I'll inform the Aurors about Lucius, Pettigrew, and Crouch Jr., and over the summer you and I can try to track down and destroy the horcruxes." Bellatrix glanced at Hermione out of the corner of her eye, smirking but not teasing her.

"You- you really want to help me?" Hermione asked, not sure why she was surprised.

"Of course I do, silly. Now, let's see what we can do about stopping him from coming back this year." Bellatrix held her hand out to Hermione, the brunette taking it with a small smile.

---

Hermione chewed her lip anxiously as they arrived back at Black Manor. The feeling was only made worse by the nausea from Apparition, even though Bellatrix had given her plenty of warning. They had just returned from the Ministry and even though Lucius was back in custody and Moody would be under close observation, Wormtail had managed to escape from the Aurors. The root of her anxiety was facing Narcissa.

"I'll handle my sister, don't worry," Bellatrix whispered, standing up straight when her sister entered the room, "Cissy!"

"Oh, save it, Bella. You owe me an explanation," Narcissa said, unaffected by the hug her sister gave her.

"And I will, over a glass of firewhiskey," Bellatrix said, dragging her sister away.

"You okay, Hermione?" Draco asked, beckoning her toward the library.

"There was a lot to take in," Hermione sighed, gratefully taking in the soothing atmosphere of the library.

"Do you want to talk about it?"

Hermione launched into an explanation of everything she had learned in the hours she had been gone. Draco paid rapt attention the whole time, asking questions and nodding his understanding every now and then. It was a lot to take in, and it was no wonder Hermione and his aunt had been gone for so long. She disclosed everything, even the information about horcruxes. It wouldn't be incorrect to say she had grown closer to Draco over the years than Harry and Ron, and she trusted him with everything she had found out.

"Well," he said, puffing out his cheeks, "It's no wonder you were gone for so long. I can't imagine how I'd react in your position."

"Yeah, I don't think I want to tell Harry and Ron," Hermione said, rubbing her forehead tiredly.

"I don't blame you. I'm not sure they would even be able to understand. I'm not sure I do."

"I'm not sure I do either," Hermione chuckled.

"What? Hermione Granger being stumped by something?" Draco asked sarcastically, earning a proper laugh from Hermione.

"Yeah, yeah," she flapped her hand at him, "I don't think it's something anyone is meant to completely understand."

"That's a solid excuse," he grinned.

Hermione rolled her eyes, the smile on her face betraying her faux annoyance.

After a while of neither of them speaking, he asked, "So you and my aunt?"

Hermione's face reddened and she muttered, "What about us?"

"Well, you clearly mean a lot to her, and she means a lot to you. I mean, you spent an entire year helping each other so you'd both turn out better. And you're blushing right now," Draco said, leaning forward and resting his elbows on his knees.

Hermione felt her cheeks turn redder, and she glanced out the window to avoid his curious but nonjudgmental gaze. "I don't know. I- I like her a lot, and I like being around her. But I'm not even of age yet, and she has an entire life."

Draco moved to sit next to Hermione on the couch, tucking his legs under him. "Hermione, my entire life I've watched Auntie Bella go through the motions of living. But that's the thing, she was just going through it. Something has always been missing from her life and I've never seen her as fulfilled as she is now that you're here. I'm not saying this to pressure you. But you seem a lot more fulfilled, too. Besides, you might look fifteen, but you've experienced just as much life as she has."

Hermione sighed, worrying her lip between her teeth. "How are you so okay with this?"

Draco laughed, shaking his head at Hermione incredulously. "I love my aunt, and you're my best friend. As long as whatever you do makes you happy, then I'm happy for you. I know you feel the same way about me."

"That means a lot, Draco." Hermione smiled at him, leaning her cheek against the couch.

"Whatever you decide to do, I'm here for you. Always. Don't tell Ron, though. He fancies you."

Hermione groaned, banging her head against the back of the couch. "I know, I wish he would stop. I really don't fancy him as more than a friend. He's pretty jealous of you. He thinks we might become more than friends."

Draco laughed so hard he almost fell off the couch, clutching his stomach as he gasped, "That's priceless. He really has no idea you're more like a sister to me and I would never."

Draco's laughter was contagious, and Hermione found herself descending into a fit of giggles that caused tears to leak from the corner of her eyes. "To be fair, I am spending Christmas with you instead of him."

Draco shrugged, pushing himself off the couch and extending his hand to Hermione. "Come on, I'm famished and I'm sure you are too."

Hermione's stomach chose that moment to rumble loudly, drawing laughs from both of them. Draco linked his arm with Hermione's adopting the pace she set. Narcissa and Bellatrix were already in the dining room when they arrived, whispering to each other conspiratorially. When they noticed Hermione and Draco, they shushed each other, trying to control their childish laughter. Draco and Hermione shared a look, rolling their eyes as they took a seat.

"How are you doing, Hermione?" Narcissa asked as plates appeared on the table.

"Better, I think," she said, focusing on her plate.

"It's a lot to come to terms with, but hopefully tomorrow will put you in better spirits," Narcissa grinned.

"What's tomorrow?" Hermione asked, looking up from her plate at the three of them.

"Tomorrow is shopping day!" Bellatrix exclaimed excitedly.

"Oh!" Hermione frowned at her plate. "I don't have any nice clothes."

"I'm sure we'll be able to fix that without a problem," Narcissa said, "There are plenty of robes that would look wonderful on you with a few alterations."

"You're much too generous," Hermione mumbled, her cheeks flushing.

"Nonsense, Hermione. You're our guest, it's our privilege to accommodate you," Draco answered, earning proud looks from both Bellatrix and Narcissa.

"I don't want to be an imposition," Hermione protested.

"Hermione," Bellatrix said, putting her glass down, "We love having you here. You could never be an imposition. You're always welcome to stay here and we're always here for you."

Hermione smiled, nodding and turning her attention back to her food.

---

"Arms out," Narcissa instructed, showing Hermione what she wanted her to do.

Hermione obeyed, surprisingly comfortable under the blonde witch's discerning gaze. Narcissa mumbled to herself, making mental notes on the styles that would best suit Hermione. With a flick of Narcissa's wand, a set of robes levitated in front of Hermione. Narcissa frowned in disapproval, casting them aside hastily. Hermione did her best to stay still as Narcissa did this with several more robes, finally settling on a simple but elegant one.

"What do you think?" Narcissa asked Hermione, stepping aside so the brunette could see her reflection.

Hermione tilted her head from side to side, reaching out to feel the expensive material. "I like it."

Narcissa nodded her agreement, turning to allow Hermione some privacy to try them on. The soft material was slightly warm against Hermione's skin, hanging loosely over her frame. She cleared her throat and Narcissa turned around, glancing over Hermione.

"May I?" she asked, gesturing to the robes.

"Please," Hermione mumbled.

Narcissa proceeded to make several adjustments to make the robe fit better. She refrained from making it too revealing of Hermione's figure but maintained an appropriate level of tailoring. She tapped her wand against her chin, trying to pinpoint the source of her dissatisfaction.

"It should be green," Hermione said thoughtfully, looking at Narcissa in the mirror.

"Yes, of course. How Slytherin of you," Narcissa said with a smirk, appraising the robes with a practiced eye, You fit right in with us, Hermione. I hope that's not too forward of me, no one expects you to do anything."

Hermione smiled. "Thank you. I feel at home here. I feel loved unconditionally."

"You are," Narcissa assured her, offering a hand as she stepped off the stool, "We wouldn't have it any other way."

"Thank you, Cissa."

Narcissa simply smiled at her, linking their arms together. Hermione smiled back, allowing the blonde witch to set the pace to the foyer, where Draco and Bellatrix were already waiting. They both smiled at the pair that had just entered, holding out the portkey for Hermione and Narcissa to grab. When all their hands were firmly gripping the portkey, it activated, and when Hermione opened her eyes, she was standing in Diagon Alley.

"I know you're unfamiliar with how we do things, Hermione, so allow me to explain. Each of us will pair up and switch twice, so you'll go with everyone. You can choose who you'd like to be paired with first," Narcissa said.

"I'll go with Draco first," Hermione replied after thinking for a moment.

"Excellent choice," Draco said, whisking her away from Bellatrix and Narcissa by the crook of her arm.

"Draco, I have no idea what to get Narcissa or Bella," Hermione said when they were out of earshot.

Draco slowed their pace. "You'll think of something."

"That isn't helpful," Hermione huffed, following Draco into Flourish and Blotts.

Draco picked up a book, examining the cover. "Hermione, whatever you get Auntie Bella, she'll appreciate it because it's from you. And mum is just happy to see her sister so happy, but anything you get her will mean a lot."

"I suppose," Hermione mumbled, running her hands along the spines of the books.

"You suppose, but I know." Draco put the book down, picking up another.

Hermione continued running her hands along the spines of the books, reading each label as she did. Her fingers stopped on one that made her fingers tingle and she felt a smile form on her lips. It didn't have a title, but she pulled it off the shelf and took it to the counter anyway.

"What did you find?" Draco asked, holding a book on potions ingredients to give his mother.

"No idea, but it feels right," Hermione said, handing over the amount the shopkeeper asked for.

"I told you that you'd think of something," Draco said.

"Yeah, yeah." Hermione rolled her eyes, stepping aside to wait for him to complete his own purchase.

"So, for Auntie Bella or mum?"

Hermione frowned, peering into the bag. "Narcissa."

Draco linked his arm through Hermione's. "I'm sure she'll love it. Whatever it is. Now come on, I'm sure they're waiting for us."

"Already?" Hermione exclaimed.

"Yeah, they never take long when they're together," Draco explained, "Look! There they are."

Draco waved to catch their attention, pulling Hermione at a pace almost too fast for Hermione to keep up. Narcissa and Bellatrix hid their laughter behind their hands, watching Hermione struggle to keep up with Draco. Hermione shot them each a glare, unnoticed by Draco in his excitement. Hermione pulled sharply in the opposite direction Draco was dragging her, forcing him to an abrupt stop. Draco looked at her in surprise, offering her a sheepish and apologetic smile.

"Auntie Bella, can I go with you next?" Draco asked, whisking her away before she had a chance to answer.

"Draco loves shopping with Bella. He usually goes with her first," Narcissa told Hermione, offering her arm to the young witch.

"I didn't mean to throw off the tradition," Hermione mumbled, her cheeks reddening.

"Nonsense. It's good to change things up every now and then. Besides, he wanted you to be comfortable. It was his idea to let you choose who to go with first." Narcissa gave Hermione a smile, leading her down Diagon Alley.

"Narcissa?" Hermione asked, tilting her head up to the blonde witch.

"Yes?" Narcissa kept their pace, meandering along the sidewalk.

"When Bella told me about everything, she offered to cast an age charm to see how old I really am. I didn't give her an answer because I wasn't sure if I wanted to know. After Draco and I talked, I felt better about everything," Hermione rambled.

"Hermione," Narcissa said, pulling them to a stop, "You don't have to evade anything. No one will force you into anything. Please ask whatever it is you want to know."

"Could you do it?" Hermione blurted, biting her lip after.

Narcissa blinked, then smiled. "If you would like."

"Will you let me tell Bella?" Hermione's voice was so quiet, Narcissa almost didn't hear it.

"I will." Narcissa pulled Hermione into a more secluded area of the popular alley.

Hermione took a deep breath with her eyes closed, opening her eyes and saying, "I'm ready."

Narcissa nodded, pulling her wand from her sleeve and casting the charm over Hermione. "You're sixteen."

"How?" Hermione wondered aloud, before exclaiming, "The time turner!"

"Time turner?" Narcissa asked, stowing her wand.

"I used it last year to take extra classes. It must've had some effects on my age." Hermione worried her lip between her teeth. "How come I'm not affected by the time travel that led me to Bella? I have the memories of that time, my magic is older than I am, how come I'm not older?"

Narcissa smiled affectionately at Hermione, linking their arms and leading her back along the sidewalk. "Hermione, what year were you born?"

"1979," she answered.

"So, the time turner you used aged you an extra year, give or take. How old were you when you went back to 1965?"

"In my twenties, but when I arrived in 1965, I looked 14," Hermione said, wondering where Narcissa was going.

"So, it stands to reason that the same reason you were 14 in 1965 explains why you're only 16 now." Narcissa placed a hand over Hermione's.

Hermione frowned, linking their fingers. "I suppose."

Narcissa squeezed Hermione's hand, assuring her, "It doesn't have to make sense. I'm just grateful you were brought into our lives. I can't bear the thought of where we would've been without you."

"Can I ask you something personal?" Hermione looked up at Narcissa again, moving closer so they could pass through the door of a Quidditch store.

Narcissa regarded her in silence for a minute, finally saying, "Only if I can ask you something personal."

Hermione smiled at her as they surveyed the paraphernalia. "Deal. Why did you turn in your husband?"

Narcissa took a deep breath, collecting herself as she observed the newest broom model. "He endangered the lives of my son, my sisters, myself. He used to be a good man, but he was poorly influenced after he graduated Hogwarts. I didn't realize at the time, or maybe I thought I could change him. I wanted him to be the man I thought he was, but he bought into Voldemort's pure-blood nonsense. I can't say I blame him, though, we were all brought up to believe it. I suppose I have you to thank for saving us from a similar fate."

"Worse," Hermione whispered too quietly for Narcissa to hear.

"I believe it's my turn now," Narcissa said, waiting for Hermione's nod to continue, "Why didn't you want Bella to cast the age charm?"

"I didn't want her to be disappointed. You know, in case I wasn't older." Hermione turned a pair of gloves over in her hands, admiring the green leather.

"I understand. Draco would love those, by the way," Narcissa offered, "And I hope you don't think Bella expects you to be with her."

"Thanks," Hermione said, moving to the register, "I don't, but I think I want to. Not right now, but later, when I'm a little older. I want to get to know each other more, and I want to feel more grown-up."

"You don't think you're grown up?" Narcissa asked incredulously.

"I think I'm more grown-up than most people my age, but I know there's a lot of teenage things going on and I don't want to add a relationship to any of the preexisting drama." Hermione handed the cashier the money, putting the gloves in the same bag as Narcissa's present.

"Drama?" Narcissa asked, gesturing to the newest model broom for the cashier.

Hermione rolled her eyes at the thought of it. "Yes. Ron seems to have it in his head that he belongs with me, but he also has it in his head that Draco and I are more than friends."

Narcissa chuckled, having her purchase sent to the manor. "I don't miss those days."

"I don't blame you. It's infuriating." Hermione allowed Narcissa to loop their arms together, squeezing through the door.

"It won't last forever. Come, let's meet everyone for lunch."

Narcissa and Hermione walked in contemplative silence to The Leaky Cauldron. Andromeda, Tonks, Ted, Draco, and Bellatrix were waiting for them already.

"Took you long enough," Bellatrix laughed, "Aren't you supposed to be the punctual one, Cissy?"

"I must've lost track of time," she answered, winking conspiratorially at Hermione, "You know I love shopping."

"Well, I'm famished, I didn't want to wait for you," Tonks said, throwing an arm over Draco's shoulder.

"Busy day at work?" Narcissa asked.

"I barely made it off in time for lunch. When I go back, it's back to looking for Pettigrew." Tonks rolled her eyes. "Slippery little rat."

"Does this mean Sirius will be exonerated?" Hermione asked, looking between Tonks and Bellatrix.

Tonks bit her lip.

"Without Pettigrew, the charges against Sirius still stand," Bellatrix said gently, placing a hand on Hermione's shoulder.

Hermione opened her mouth to argue, silenced by Andromeda saying, "We know, Hermione. It bothers us, but there's nothing that can be done right now."

Hermione frowned at the ground, nodding and letting the subject drop. Andromeda and Bellatrix each wrapped an arm around Hermione's shoulder, squeezing through the door behind Draco and Tonks. Narcissa and Ted followed behind them. Sound washed over the group but they pushed through it, finding a table in a dark, quiet corner where they hoped they wouldn't be bothered. Hermione was squeezed between the wall and Bellatrix, with Andromeda between Bellatrix and Narcissa. Draco sat between Tonks and Ted, wiggling his eyebrows at Hermione. She rolled her eyes, looking up at Bellatrix, who smiled down at her. Tonks and Draco looked at each other, stifling laughter while Narcissa and Andromeda shared a knowing look.

"Hermione, I don't think we've been properly introduced. I'm Ted, Andy's husband," Ted said, reaching across the table to offer his hand.

Hermione sent him a grateful look, taking his hand and giving it a firm shake. "Hermione Granger. I haven't given anyone a handshake in a long time."

"Pleasure to finally meet you, Hermione." Ted smiled, letting go of her hand.

"And you. Andy has been smitten with you since her second year." Hermione shot Andromeda a glance.

"Hermione!" she exclaimed, her cheeks turning red.

"I think that's more than fair," Bellatrix said, sending Hermione a sly smile.

"It's not as if it's a secret, honey," Ted chuckled, reaching across the table to hold her hands.

Narcissa hid a smile behind her hand.

"Oh, like you're any different, Cissy," Andromeda teased, playfully elbowing her, "You were making heart eyes for Lucius since you first laid eyes on him."

"Andy!" Narcissa shouted, whacking her sister on the shoulder.

"It's not like she's wrong, Cissy," Bellatrix said, using Andromeda as a shield.

Tonks and Draco looked at each other, hiding their laughter behind their hands. Ted shot them a faux stern look to hide his own laughter.

"Is it always like this?" Hermione whispered to Bellatrix.

"You started it," she whispered back, "And don't be surprised if they return the favor."

At that moment, their food appeared on the table. Andromeda and Narcissa whispered to themselves the whole meal, getting quiet every time someone tried to eavesdrop. Draco and Tonks imitated their mothers, Tonks shifting her features to look more like Andromeda, causing Hermione to almost choke with laughter. Tonks and Draco pretended to be focused on eating whenever Andromeda and Narcissa looked up, not fooling anyone. Before they had all finished eating, Tonks had left to get back to work, claiming her lunch break was over. Shortly after, they all finished eating and paid, emerging back into the bright light of the alley. Andromeda and Ted bid them goodbye, returning home to spend the rest of the day together. The remaining four of them split into their final pairs. Hermione looped her arm through Bellatrix's, pulling her closer.

When they were out of sight of Narcissa and Draco, Bellatrix said, "I know Cissy wasn't caught up shopping. She loves shopping, but she cares more about punctuality than shopping."

Hermione tilted her head to look up at her. "It was my fault. Curiosity. I had some questions."

Bellatrix placed a hand over the one that was on her arm. "You can tell me another time. Who do you need to shop for?"

"Thanks, Bella. I still need to get Andy a present. What about you?" Hermione laced their fingers together, feeling her heart rate increase at the gentle look Bellatrix gave her.

"Oh, I mostly do this to indulge Cissy and Draco. I always have their presents at the beginning of the month." Bellatrix chuckled, finding herself staring at Hermione.

"That's sweet of you." Hermione stared up at Bellatrix, smiling.

Bellatrix forced herself to look away from Hermione so she could focus on where they were going. "Andy would enjoy a book on healing, and I know a great shop to get one."

In a remote end of Diagon Alley was a small shop filled with books much like Ollivander's was filled with wands. Bellatrix wrapped an arm around Hermione, pulling her almost in front of her as she pushed open the door and entered the shop. Hermione looked up at Bellatrix, her breath catching in her throat when she saw the piles of books in the store. Bellatrix chuckled lowly, her breath tickling Hermione's ear as she moved away from the embrace of the older witch. A soft smile appeared on Bellatrix's face as she watched Hermione browse through the books. At random, she picked one up while she waited, flipping through the pages absently.

"Bella!" Hermione said, launching herself at the dark witch leaning against the wall, "I found something. Thank you for bringing me here."

Bellatrix wrapped an arm around Hermione's waist to steady them. "I'm glad you like it."

"Now it's my turn to take you somewhere," Hermione mumbled, grabbing Bellatrix's wrists and dragging her out the door.

"Hermione," Bellatrix chuckled, blowing snow out of her face when they emerged in Diagon Alley.

Hermione put a finger to her lips, dragging Bellatrix through the Muggle side of The Leaky Cauldron. "Do you remember the Christmas we spent together?"

"How could I forget?" Bellatrix asked, transfiguring their robes into Muggle clothes before they strayed too far.

"Things have changed a lot since we've been, but some things are still the same." Hermione led Bellatrix toward Trafalgar Square, looking up at the older witch occasionally.

Bellatrix draped an arm over Hermione's shoulder, pulling her into her side. Hermione slid her arm around Bellatrix's torso under her jacket, leaning her head against Bellatrix's shoulder. They walked in companionable silence through the cold streets, linking their free hands together. Bellatrix smiled as they walked through Muggle London together, staring up at the tree in Trafalgar Square when they arrived. She looked down at Hermione, who was looking up at her with bright eyes.

"You're right, Hermione. Some things have changed, but some things are still the same."

"I want to tell you something, Bella. When Narcissa and I were shopping, I asked her to perform the age charm," Hermione looked down, swallowing hard, "I didn't want you to do it because I didn't want you to be disappointed. I'm only sixteen."

Bellatrix put two fingers under Hermione's chin, tilting her head up so they were looking at each other. "I don't expect us to be together, Hermione. Even if you were old enough, I would never force that on you. All that matters to me is that you're happy. And I'd want to get to know you before anything got more serious."

Hermione pushed herself onto the tips of her toes, placing a soft kiss on Bellatrix's lips, so short the older witch didn't have time to react. "I guess I'm a little disappointed. Part of me wanted to be older because I do want something more. But in a way, I suppose it's a blessing because I want to get to know you more, too."

"Hermione," Bellatrix breathed, taking a deep, shuddering breath, "I've missed you so much, in so many ways."

"I know," Hermione whispered, wrapping her arms tightly around Bellatrix and burying her face in her neck.

---

Christmas morning arrived quickly after the day of shopping in Diagon Alley. Hermione and Draco could barely contain their excitement through breakfast. Even Bellatrix and Narcissa were buzzing with energy. Sitting through breakfast was a difficult task for all of them, and they were lucky that Andromeda, Ted, and Nymphadora arrived as they were finishing. Draco let out a breath of relief, the sentiment shared by the three witches.

"I hope you're ready to lose!" Tonks greeted, stumbling into the doorframe.

"As if!" Draco shouted, jumping up from his chair.

Hermione sent Bellatrix a confused look, asking, "What are they talking about?"

Bellatrix sent her a wild grin. "The annual snowball fight. You and I will be a team, Cissy and Draco will be another, and Tonks and Andy will be the third team."

"Ted, you aren't playing?" Hermione asked, turning her head to look at him.

"Merlin, no," he laughed, "I'll be the referee. I always get my arse handed to me."

Hermione felt her competitive spirit rise to the surface. "How do we win?"

Bellatrix smirked approvingly. "Last team standing wins. I'll explain more at the base."

Hermione gave her another confused look but refrained from asking questions. The seven of them went outside, looking over the freshly fallen snow with various expressions on their faces.

"Hermione and Bella, you first," Ted said, beckoning them away from the other two groups.

He whispered the boundaries of their territory to them, doing the same for the other two groups.

"You have ten minutes," he instructed, watching the three teams run off with a smile on his face. He loved Christmas.

Hermione followed Bellatrix across the garden and into the woods on the outskirts, their whereabouts masked by the spell Hermione had taught Bellatrix. Hermione stared at Bellatrix, admiring her fierce profile as her head suddenly turned to the right.

"Andy and Tonks," she mouthed.

Hermione nodded and the two set off again. The trees grew closer and closer together the deeper they went, and Hermione started to wonder how far they were going to go. Bellatrix suddenly stopped, and Hermione almost walked into her back, bracing her hands on the older witch's shoulders.

Her face turned pink as she mumbled, "Sorry."

"It's okay," Bellatrix chuckled, "We're here."

Hermione looked around, a question on her lips.

"Look up," Bellatrix instructed, tilting her head up with two fingers under her chin before Hermione could voice anything.

"Wow," she breathed, taking in the magically constructed fort suspended in the trees.

"No one has found it since we started this tradition," Bellatrix informed her, tapping her wand against the trunk of one of the trees to reveal the ladder.

"Are you always your own team?" Hermione asked, letting Bellatrix give her a hand up the ladder.

"Sometimes I'm the referee," she shrugged, "Sometimes I'm not in this area."

"This is incredible," Hermione breathed once she reached the platform, looking around in awe.

The construct spread through the trees, camouflaged by the dense foliage but providing a vantage point.

Bellatrix chuckled. "I built it when I finished school. I needed something to stay occupied when I wasn't training."

"So, what do I need to know?" Hermione fixed Bellatrix with a look she had seen on the young witch's face only a few times before, bringing a smile to her face.

"Don't get hit with a snowball. You can use magic to throw them or go Muggle, and you can deflect them. Hit other people with a snowball and they're out. The goal is to get everyone else out. We're allowed to leave our territory and move into theirs, we can invade their base, but you aren't allowed to set snares or anything of the sort. Snowballs only," Bellatrix explained.

Hermione nodded. "Andy and Tonks are on one side of us, which means Draco and Cissa are either on our other side or their other side. Which of them poses a bigger threat?"

"Andy has tricks up her sleeve, even if Tonks is clumsy. She would certainly use that to bait us into an ambush. Draco can only throw snowballs, but Cissy is cunning and will no doubt have a plan. She would probably sit and wait for one team to be eliminated before making a move." Bellatrix paused, humming in thought. "Of course, it's possible that they'll work together to get us out and then take each other down after we're out of the picture."

"Then we should let them come to us," Hermione said.

A shower of red sparks appeared above the tree line.

"Let the game begin," Bellatrix smirked competitively, "I'll watch one end, you watch the other."

Hermione nodded, moving to the platform opposite where Bellatrix went. Her wand was partly drawn as she scanned the trees and listened for any sign of an invasion, her thoughts flashing to a memory of being on the run. She shook her head to banish the thought, focusing on the task at hand. A snapping twig echoed through the woods and she stiffened, flicking her wand to levitate a snowball so she was ready. After several moments of silence, another snap echoed, louder than the first. Hermione looked back toward Bellatrix, laying on her stomach with her arms bracing near the edge when she made a "get down" gesture.

Bellatrix stayed low as she made her way to Hermione's platform. She soundlessly lowered herself all the way down, pointing in front of them and slightly to the left as her approximation of where the sound was coming from. Seeing the snowball Hermione had ready, she sent her an approving smile as she prepared her own. The two witches waited with bated breath, ignoring the tingle they felt from where their legs were touching. Hermione snuck a glance at Bellatrix, the expression of concentration making her heart flip. She quickly tore her eyes away, feeling her cheeks heat up. Her eyes caught sight of movement and she flicked her wand, launching the snowball at the source.

"Oof!" Tonks said as it connected with her stomach, causing her to double over.

"Nymphadora is out," Ted's voice boomed.

Dejectedly, she began to trudge back to the manor, clutching her stomach. Bellatrix stifled her urge to chuckle, sending Hermione a sideways glance and smile. Hermione beamed, readying another snowball. Another flash of movement caught Bellatrix's eye this time, and she launched the snowball toward it.

"Ouch!" Draco shouted, rubbing his shoulder, looking around for his attacker.

Hermione hid her laugh behind her hand as Ted's voice rang out, "Draco is out."

Moments later, "Andromeda is out."

Hermione and Bellatrix exchanged glances. Narcissa was their only opponent but she would be a force to be reckoned with. Hermione heard something creak behind them, rolling out of the way as a snowball landed in the spot she had just been. Bellatrix and Hermione sent their snowballs at the intruder, both of them passing through air as the source of the creak had moved. Narcissa retaliated, pelting Bellatrix with a snowball before she could react.

"Bellatrix is out!"

Hermione was on her back, partially sitting up to look at the blonde witch. With a deep breath, she sent herself over the edge of the platform as Narcissa sent a snowball her way. It just missed her as Hermione grunted and rolled when she hit the ground, sending snowballs up at Narcissa with a wave of her wand as she scrambled away. Judging from the silence that pervaded the air, they had all missed. Hermione cradled her shoulder, hissing at the pain that exploded from the joint when she tried to move it. The fall hadn't been too far, but she had misjudged the amount of snow that was on the ground to break her fall. When she was certain she was far enough away, she leaned against a tree to catch her breath. Despite the cold, sweat coated her brow and she wiped it away with her good arm as she tried to think of a plan.

A snowball hit the ground near her feet, barely missing her. Hermione shrunk behind the tree, making herself as small as possible as her brain raced to come up with something. Narcissa was clever, sneaking up on them, and Hermione knew she would have to outwit her to win. Pushing off from the tree, Hermione darted from cover to cover, narrowly avoided the snowballs sent her way, and unable to send any in retaliation. She needed a distraction so she could get farther away. Ducking, Hermione threw a snowball in an arc as she moved to another tree. She smiled when it splattered against the snow-covered limb of a tree, causing part of the snow to fall to the ground, drawing Narcissa's attention as she moved to avoid it. Hermione's eyes fell on a small snowbank and she raced toward it while Narcissa was too busy to focus on her. She jumped over it, hissing again as her shoulder was jostled and laid on her stomach next to it. Pressing herself against the snow, Hermione slowly sunk into the snowbank, leaving only enough of a hole to see and breathe.

Narcissa brushed snow off her robes as she stalked toward where she had last seen Hermione. Her brow furrowed as her snowballs continued to strike everything but the young witch. Glancing around, she spotted the snowbank, smirking and creeping around it, launching a snowball as she rounded its corner. She frowned as it impacted the ground, certain Hermione would've been hiding there. She turned, looking for other places Hermione could be hiding, gasping in surprise as cold snow hit the back of her head, powdering her hair. She turned, looking for the source.

"Narcissa is out!"

Hermione pushed herself off her stomach with her good arm. Narcissa strode toward the snow-covered girl, offering her a hand up. Hermione smiled up at her, shaking the snow out of her hair with a shake of her head. She took the hand Narcissa offered, pulled to her feet by the defeated witch.

"Good game," Narcissa said, waving her wand over Hermione's shoulder, "But next time, be a little more careful."

"I will," Hermione promised, understanding that Narcissa was referring to the many battles she would have to face to win the war.

Narcissa nodded, looping her arm through Hermione's. "I really thought I was going to win this year."

"It was your idea to use Tonks and Draco as bait to find out where we were, wasn't it?" Hermione asked knowingly.

Narcissa laughed, stepping over a fallen branch. "It was. I had hoped that by taking out Bella it would be easier to win, but that clearly wasn't the case."

"Who do you think taught her?" Hermione laughed.

"Sometimes I forget you have all those memories." She sent Hermione a sideways glance.

"Hermione! You did it!" Bellatrix yelled, running toward her as they emerged in the garden.

Narcissa unlooped their arms as Bellatrix swooped Hermione up, spinning the young witch in circles until she collapsed from dizziness. Hermione and Bellatrix sat in a heap, laughing until the world stopped spinning.

"Andy!" Narcissa called when they were closer, "How much did you bet Bella?"

"Five Galleons," she mumbled.

"And you can give them to Hermione," Bellatrix laughed, her shoulder draped over the brunette's shoulders, "She did most of the work."

"Is she the one who pelted me in the shoulder?" Draco asked, glaring playfully at her.

"That was me," Bellatrix answered, poking her tongue out at him.

"I did hit you though, Tonks," Hermione said.

"Thanks for that, Hermione," she answered sarcastically.

"Anytime," Hermione beamed.

The warmth of the manor elicited pleased sighs from the group as they entered. Hermione unwound her scarf, the only red and gold one, but she didn't feel too out of place since Tonks and Ted both had Hufflepuff colored scarves. Hermione glanced at Bellatrix as she hung her scarf on a hook, missing her own Slytherin scarf from when she was at Hogwarts with Bellatrix. The older witch caught her eye, sending a soft smile her way as if she knew what Hermione was feeling in that particular moment. She found herself returning the smile without realizing, startling when a steaming mug of hot cocoa was shoved into her hands by a house-elf. Hermione managed not to spill it, even in her surprise, and earned a chuckle from Bellatrix. No one else noticed except for the two of them, and Bellatrix quickly threw her arm over Hermione's shoulder, balancing her own hot cocoa in her free hand.

A roaring fire awaited them in the library and they all settled down in front of it to warm up. Hermione ended up sandwiched between Bellatrix and Andromeda while Narcissa, Draco, Tonks, and Ted sat opposite them. Andromeda and Narcissa exchanged sly glances as Hermione brought her mug to her face, inhaling deeply the rich aroma.

"So, Hermione," Andromeda began just as Hermione began to take a sip, "How long until the wedding?"

The casual manner Andromeda had asked the question in caused Hermione to start choking on her sip of hot cocoa, her cheeks turning red from embarrassment. Bellatrix patted her back as she hissed, "Andy!"

Narcissa chuckled. "That's fair, Bella."

Bellatrix made a rude gesture as her niece and nephew hid their laughter behind their hands.

"If you must know," Hermione rasped once she recovered, "It won't be for at least another year."

This time, Bellatrix's cheeks took on a pink tinge as everyone else ceased laughing, trying to gauge how serious Hermione was. Hermione smirked victoriously, returning her attention to her hot cocoa.

Draco was the first to recover, rolling his eyes and saying, "Leave it to Hermione to render us all speechless."

"She has an unfair advantage, if you ask me," Narcissa chimed in, "Not everyone has memories of other lifetimes they've lived."

"I guess I'm just special," Hermione teased, poking her tongue out.

"Remind me not to get on your bad side," Tonks muttered playfully.

Draco sucked in air through his teeth. "You definitely don't want that."

Hermione sent them a charming smile over her mug, opting not to say anything else. Ted chuckled as he stood, offering a hand to his wife and daughter to help them up.

"I think it's about time we got going, my parents are expecting us," he said as he pulled them to their feet.

They exchanged farewells and wishes for a happy Christmas as they stood in front of the floo. After three bursts of flames, Narcissa, Hermione, Bellatrix, and Draco meandered to the parlor. They gathered around the tree, Narcissa conjuring a fire for the four of them. Hermione had opted to sit next to Draco, leaving Narcissa and Bellatrix to sit together. She wanted to see the expression on her face when she opened her present. With a wave of her wand, Narcissa passed out the gifts she had gotten everyone, starting off the gift-giving as she always did.

"You first, Hermione," Narcissa said, leaning back into the couch.

Hermione balanced the wrapped present on her lap, her mug floating off to the side as she did. She delicately tore the paper, earning impatient fidgeting from Draco and quiet laughter from Narcissa and Bellatrix. The box was about the size of her palm and she pried the lid off, setting it on her other thigh as she pulled the paper away from the center. Sitting in the box was an old-timey silver key with emeralds set into the palm of it on a silver chain. Hermione stared at it in awe before she remembered where she was and looked up at Narcissa for an explanation.

"It's an enchanted key that will let you return here through any door. Just put it in the lock, turn the key, and open the door." Narcissa clasped the necklace around Hermione's neck.

"Thank you," Hermione whispered, wrapping the key in her hand and throwing her other arm around Narcissa.

Draco opened his present next. In a childish manner, he tore through the wrapping paper of the long package, throwing small bits into the air. He gasped when he saw the broom that lay inside. It was the newest Nimbus with a snake curled around the broom handle. He thanked her excitedly, earning a promise from Bellatrix that they would test it out later. Hermione made a face at the mention of flying, the idea of it making her stomach churn. Bellatrix was next, tearing into the present just as Draco did and Hermione couldn't help her affectionate smile at the sight. She threw her arms around her sister, nearly causing them to fall off the couch. Narcissa patted her arms calmly, smiling broadly. Carefully, Bellatrix removed the leather jacket from the box, putting it on and with a satisfied grin. Hermione had to remind herself to close her mouth, but not before Bellatrix caught her. Her cheeks flushed and she fiddled with the key around her neck to distract herself as Bellatrix shrugged off the jacket.

"My turn!" Draco exclaimed, rushing to the tree and gathering presents in his arms to pass out.

He handed a box to each of them, grinning enthusiastically the entire time. "Mum, you first."

Narcissa couldn't help but smile at her son, gently tearing off the wrapping. Draco was practically vibrating with excitement as- in his opinion- his mother dragged out the process of opening her present.

"Draco, it's wonderful, thank you," she said, placing the book next to her. Hermione recognized it from when she and Draco had been shopping and smiled sideways at him.

"Auntie Bella, your turn!" Draco's excitement was contagious and Bellatrix gleefully tore at the paper around the box.

She ripped open the box with force. The small box was no match for her strength and yielded easily, revealing a gold timepiece. Her nephew sent her a sly look as she tucked it into her sleeve.

Draco gestured to her excitedly, and Hermione rolled her eyes playfully as she tore into the wrapping paper. The box was the same size as the one Bellatrix had, and she pried open the lid, her mouth dropping open.

Draco leaned to whisper in her ear, "I remember you telling me about the Weasly family clock. This will tell you the time it is at each person's whereabouts and where they are. Auntie Bella has its twin and you can send messages through it."

Hermione brushed the tears from her eyes as she held the silver timepiece in her palm. "Thank you, Draco."

"Welcome to our family," he said, grunting as she threw her arms around his shoulders.

"I'll go next," Hermione said, standing before anyone could interject. She gathered the presents in her arms and distributed them by hand with a grin unrivaled by any other. Unable to contain her giddiness, she gestured for Bellatrix to open hers first, dropping into her spot.

Bellatrix couldn't help but admire the neatness and care that Hermione put into wrapping their gifts as she slid her pinky under the tape. She found herself taking her time, much to her sister and Hermione's amusement. Draco did his best not to fidget impatiently as his aunt unfolded the paper and placed it on the floor. She pried the lid off the box, discarding it on the floor and looking at the scarf resting inside. She hadn't let her sister replace the scarf she had because it was all she had from her time with Hermione.

Now, though, their time had begun again and she smiled as she stroked the green and silver garment. "Thank you."

Hermione nodded, gesturing to Narcissa next. The blonde witch opened the wrapping in a similar manner as Bellatrix. She smiled as she read the title and she couldn't help but open the cover to begin reading. Bellatrix cleared her throat subtly, bringing Narcissa back to the real world.

"Thank you, Hermione," Narcissa said, placing the book on the side table.

"Of course. Your turn, Draco."

Draco, unlike his mother and aunt, tore through the wrapping paper to the box within. He ripped the lid off, throwing it behind him. He pulled out the gloves, letting the box slide to the floor. He put them on, flexing his hands with a grin.

"Now we really need to go for a fly," he said, debating between pulling them off and leaving them on.

Before he could decide, a noise from the fireplace caught their attention. Bellatrix crouched in front of it, watching the embers change into what resembled a face.

"Bellatrix?" came Dumbledore's voice.

"I'm here," she said, gesturing with her head to her sister. Narcissa led Draco and Hermione out of the room, despite their protests.

"I just got word from Kingsley that Barty Crouch Jr. has been arrested, and Moody has been sent to St. Mungo's. This leaves the Defense Against the Dark Arts position vacant and I cannot cancel the class halfway through the term. I made a promise a long time ago that I would never force you to do anything for the greater good, so I'm giving you the choice to be the new Defense professor." Dumbledore's face blinked up at Bellatrix.

Bellatrix cast a glance at the door behind her. "We're very fortunate to have Hermione. If she and Draco hadn't overheard anything, Voldemort surely would've returned. I want to make sure the students of Hogwarts have every weapon at their disposal for when he does rise again. The more time they have to prepare, the better the outcome will be. I'd love to accept the position."

"I had a feeling you would say that. The proper paperwork has already been sent to the Ministry. Thank you, Bellatrix. The students have much to learn from you."

Dumbledore's face vanished from the fireplace, and the flames danced back to life. Bellatrix sat back on her heels and inhaled slowly. Hermione had a certain advantage but there was no telling how far that advantage would extend. At the very least, they'd be working together to find and destroy the remaining Horcruxes.

---

Draco and Hermione waved goodbye to Narcissa even as the train pulled out of the station and until they couldn't see her anymore. They leaned back into the seats, both already in their robes. Bellatrix had left the day before, explaining to them that she'd see them at school. Hermione couldn't help the relief she felt upon hearing Barty Crouch Jr. was arrested and sent to Azkaban. For the moment, Voldemort wouldn't return. It was only a matter of time before he did, but they would hopefully have destroyed the Horcruxes by then. Hermione gazed out the window, watching the countryside slide past. She wasn't sure how much time they had, but every moment counted.

Hermione wrapped her hand around the wand Bellatrix had given her for Christmas. The one that had been hers when they were at Hogwarts together. She rolled the acacia anxiously, her vinewood wand still securely stowed up her sleeve as always. They would be at Hogwarts together again, but under different circumstances this time. Draco was content to leave Hermione to her thoughts and focus his attention on his new book, but when her anxiety became more palpable, he let the book drop onto his lap.

"What's up?" he asked, watching her closely.

"What if I'm wrong about the horcruxes? What if things changed too much and they aren't the same? What if we can't actually stop him from coming back this year and everything was all pointless?" Hermione asked, panic seeping into her bones in a manner that was unusual for her.

Draco moved to sit next to her, draping his arm over her shoulders. "Has anyone ever told you that you think way too much? Peter Pettigrew is the only way he'll come back, and that sorry excuse for a man would never be able to pull it off without help. As for the horcruxes, if things have changed that much, you and Auntie Bella will figure it out. You two are the brightest witches of two ages, there's nothing you can't accomplish especially when you work together."

Hermione sighed, letting go of the wand in her pocket. "You're right. I just worry things will go horribly wrong."

"It's okay to plan for the worst, but worrying about it doesn't do anyone any good. Don't stress yourself out like that." He nudged Hermione's shoulders, earning a reluctant nod.

"So, Draco," Hermione said in an attempt to lighten the mood, "What's it like having your aunt be one of the professors?"

He smirked at her. "What's it like having your girlfriend as one of the professors?"

Hermione flushed, shoving Draco lightly and exclaiming, "She's not my girlfriend!"

He laughed, poking her cheeks. "Okay, okay. She isn't your girlfriend but she may as well be."

"I guess I may as well be your aunt, then," Hermione retorted to his horror.

"Merlin! Don't say that!"

It was Hermione's turn to laugh this time, and she had to admit that she did feel better. Upon sensing her improved mood, Draco moved to the other bench in their compartment, going back to his book as Hermione watched the scenery roll by.