When we had had enough, we grabbed the poolside towels and sat on the lounge chairs for a few minutes drying off in each other's arms. After that we got dressed and I met Lexi for the first time as she served us a delightful dinner before we retreated to the bedroom to wind down for the evening.
We had decided that we would exchange gifts together tonight, instead of doing so at the Weasley's. That way, we could get something more meaningful and not be embarrassed to open it. We settled onto the couch in the bedroom to do just that.
Draco looked at me with excitement in his eyes and I couldn't tell if it was anticipation of what he would receive, or what he would give. Either way, he asked to give his last.
I took a wrapped parcel out of my beaded bag and enlarged it before handing it to him. It was rather large and he made quick work of the wrapping.
"You remembered. Hermione, this is brilliant! Thank you so much!"
It wasn't anything recent, but during one of our therapy sessions after the war we got to talking of things we would love to do in the future. Draco shared a story of how he was forced to play piano and only piano. While he had come to love the instrument and the escape that music could provide, he longed for an acoustic guitar. His father was vehemently against it and Draco hoped one day he would have one and learn to play. I could tell from the way he talked about it that it was a great longing that he would probably never indulge himself in now that he had grown. So, for Christmas I bought him a top-of-the-line acoustic guitar that he could play to his heart's content.
"Do you really like it? You're a bit hard to shop for, you kind of have everything." It was a joke, but there was truth to it as well.
"It's perfect Hermione. You got me one of the only things I've longed for that I wouldn't have bought myself. Thank you." He kissed me. "Now it's time for your gift." I could tell he was nervous, but not why.
"Ok, I'm doing this. Hermione, I have known you more than half my life. We've certainly been on quite the adventure together and endured more hardships in our short lives than many will deal with in their entire life time. I know we have only been dating a short time, but things work a little different in the Wizarding World and, anyways, my heart has belonged to you for years. You are smart and funny and you have the biggest heart of anyone I have ever met. The compassion and forgiveness you show to others, myself included, astounds me every day. I love you and I know in my heart there will never be anyone I love more. And so today, on our first Christmas together, I ask if you would do me the honor of marrying me." He slipped down on one knee and opened a small box from his pocket. My eyes were tearing so badly I couldn't see the details. "As I said, I know this is soon, but we can have as long an engagement as you like. I just want you to know this is it for me and I have no reason to wait to declare that to the world."
It took me a moment to respond through the shock. I threw my hands around his neck and kissed him hard.
"Is that a yes then?"
"Of course it is you silly man!"
Draco took the ring from the box and slid it on my finger. I dried my eyes and had a chance to admire it. With all his gold he could have got me something completely over the top, but this was so perfectly me I couldn't have designed it better myself. Later I would learn that he had designed the ring himself ages ago hoping someday he'd be able to present it to me. The round cut diamond in the middle was a good size, but not big enough to be gaudy. There was an interesting but simple geometric pattern around the sides. Around the center stone was a pattern in a diamond shape. The points had small squared diamond shapes with round stones in the middle. Instead of the lines from point to point being straight, there was a half-circle set with two small round diamonds as well. It was very unique and reminded me of a floral patten. The band was solid rose gold and I was glad for the simplicity since the setting was so beautiful. I was thankful for the low profile as I wouldn't have to worry about it catching on things.
"I can't believe we just got engaged!"
Draco spun me around and kissed me again. "What do you say we head to bed and celebrate?" He winked and I giggled.
"Sure thing. Let me just brush my teeth first." He agreed and headed for bed while I headed for the bathroom. I didn't want to spoil the surprise, but I had one more trick up my sleeve. While in the bathroom I changed into a bright red lacy bra with a bit of white fuzz on the top. It was complete with a matching garter belt and lacy knickers. I chose some red fishnet thigh highs and red stilettos to complete the outfit. It had a "Santa meets the strip club" feel to it, but I thought it would make for a fun evening.
I was a little nervous as this was completely outside my comfort zone, but the man was going to be my husband! Wow, that was a thrill to say! I had planned this before tonight hoping to surprise him, but now it seemed even better despite my nerves.
The final touch was a bit of red lipstick and I was ready to face Draco. His reaction was well worth the nerves. It may have been the first time I heard him completely speechless. He was already naked and under the covers so I took the opportunity to take charge and climb over him. Needless to say, it was a wonderful and festive evening of celebrations.
