A/N - Hi all! Thinking of everyone in Texas affected by the winter storms. Stay safe! Thanks for reading and reviewing and I hope that you all enjoy this chapter!

Chapter 33

Distance

Lucius sat in his suite, staring at the empty fireplace. When he and Severus had returned to the Manor, Lucius had gone immediately to his rooms. Severus had been eyeing him as they left Nott Manor and Lucius had no desire to get into anything with his friend this morning. There was a bottle of Ogden's in his room and he had considered it, but ultimately left it alone. What Lucius really needed was sleep.

But still he sat, the picture of Hermione crying over Weasley refusing to leave his head. Had he not heard what he did, Lucius might have assumed she was simply upset because Weasley was her friend. As it was, Lucius knew it was more than that.

He again reminded himself that this was what he wanted. Even if he could somehow manage to escape Azkaban, Hermione should move on after all this was over. Being tied to him would only sully her reputation and alienate her friends.

Of course, what should happen and what Lucius wanted were two vastly different things. He wanted her with him, forever, if he were honest. And he had yet to be completely honest with himself. He was in love with the witch.

Lucius sighed, scrubbing a hand down his face. This was not supposed to have happened. It was supposed to be a dalliance, a bit of comfort in an otherwise horrible world, something to enjoy for the time being. He was not supposed to fall in love with her.

There was only one thing to do now. He had to end it before he got in even deeper than he already was. With the arrival of Weasley and the Resistance, it would be easier. Hermione could spend as much time as she liked at Nott Manor, nursing her former paramour back to health. They could reconnect and renew their relationship and Lucius would not have to watch it happen. In fact, perhaps she could move there permanently. He was sure that she would rather be with her friends anyway.

"Liddy," he called. The elf popped into his rooms a moment later.

"Yes, Master Lucius?"

"How is Trelawney?"

"She still be sleeping."

"When she wakes, prepare her breakfast. If anyone else returns, feed them as well."

"And for you, Master Lucius?"

"No, Liddy, I intend to take a potion and sleep. That is all." Liddy nodded her head and disappeared.

Lucius stood from the couch, divesting himself of his robes as he moved to the bathroom. He was going to take a shower, procure a vial of Dreamless Sleep, and then sleep as long as possible.

"Hermione," a quiet voice said and Hermione felt someone gently shaking her shoulder. She blinked and looked up at Mrs. Weasley.

"Sorry," Hermione said sitting up in the chair. "I didn't mean to fall asleep."

"It's all right," Mrs. Weasley said.

"How is he?" Hermione asked, looking over to Ron's bed. He was still lying in the same position, his breathing still regular and even.

"Still using the breathing charm, but the Healer says that his lungs have improved."

"Oh, that's wonderful news."

"Not a lot, mind you, but even a small improvement is a good sign." Hermione nodded.

"What time is it?" she asked, trying to work out a kink in her neck.

"A little after eight," Mrs. Weasley said. "The House Elves have prepared breakfast if you're hungry." Hermione nodded again and then yawned. What she really wanted was to sleep for a few days.

"You should go back to the Manor and sleep, dear," Mrs. Weasley said.

"I'd like to see everyone," Hermione said. "But I suppose they're all still asleep." She gathered her hair into a ponytail and secured it with magic. It was a complete mess after sleeping in the chair for three hours.

"I'm not so sure about that," Mrs. Weasley said. "Charlie said that everyone was worried about Ron. I don't know how much sleep they've gotten. I wouldn't have either had Charlie not slipped me a sleeping draught." She said it with a scowl on her face and Hermione stifled a laugh. Both women looked up as Poppy stepped into the room.

"I hear there has been a bit of improvement," Poppy said with a smile.

"Just a little," Mrs. Weasley replied. Poppy patted her arm.

"Any improvement is good news," she said. She turned to Hermione. "If you're staying there are a few people that are rather desperate to see you out in the gardens."

"They're all awake?" Hermione asked. Poppy nodded. Hermione smiled and jumped up from the chair. "How do I get there?" Poppy chuckled and gave her directions through the sitting room where the Floo was located. Hermione checked on Ron, squeezed his hand, and then excused herself.

She made her way back to the sitting room and then found the French doors that led out into the gardens. Theo obviously hadn't cast any kind of concealment charms on any of the buildings as Hermione could see the tent situated halfway between the stables and a small cottage. She hurried across the lawns, the noise of people moving about drifting towards her as she got closer.

Hermione quickened her pace and came upon the stables just as Kingsley stepped out. He smiled at her and she moved towards him, anxious to see the rest of her friends.

"You're just in time for breakfast," he said, motioning her towards the stable door. She stepped inside and was surprised to see a few long tables set up past the stalls, all crowded with people. House elves were moving between them levitating platters and bowls full of food. Glancing at the stalls as they passed, Hermione saw that most of them had blankets and a pallet on the floor where people had obviously slept. She had no idea Theo had gone to these lengths and the thought made her tear up a bit.

"Hermione!" a voice called and she turned to see Katie running towards her. The two women embraced and Hermione lost the battle with her tears. She and Katie had gotten quite close those months they had been together.

"I'm so glad you made it safely," Hermione managed and Katie squeezed her tighter.

"I'm happy you're all right. We were frantic before we got your first note," Katie said. They pulled back from one another and Hermione saw Dennis and Graham approaching. She grinned at both boys and threw her arms around them when they reached her. They didn't even grumble about it, like they normally did whenever she showed them any kind of affection.

"I missed you," she said, pulling back from them with a smile.

"You're all right?" Dennis asked. "The Malfoys treat you okay?"

"Yes," she said with another smile. "I've been perfectly fine."

"I'm sorry, Hermione," Graham said with a frown on his face.

"Whatever for?" Hermione asked in confusion.

"If my hip hadn't acted up, we could have stayed and helped you fight," he said.

"Graham," she replied, hugging him again. "That wasn't your fault. Besides, as soon as we used magic, you know the Ministry was on their way. We would have had to leave regardless." He didn't look convinced and Hermione wondered if he had been blaming himself all this time. She glanced at Katie, who nodded sadly.

"It all worked out for the best anyway. If Malfoy hadn't found me, we probably wouldn't be getting ready to get rid of You-Know-Who for good." She squeezed Graham's shoulder and he nodded.

"Since you're giving out hugs," a voice said and Hermione laughed as Oliver walked up next to Katie. She hugged him briefly and the group led her to one of the tables. When Hermione saw all the food, she realized just how hungry she really was and tucked in.

A few minutes later, Parvati slid into the seat across from her. Hermione smiled at her old roommate and noticed the deep circles under Parvati's eyes and the half-hearted smile she gave Hermione.

"You've seen Ron?" Parvati asked.

"Yes," Hermione said. "I sat with him for a bit."

"Kingsley said he was better, but," Parvati trailed off.

"Would you like to see him?" Hermione asked, reaching across the table and putting a hand over Parvati's. The other woman looked at her for a few moments.

"I'm not family," she finally said.

"Neither am I," Hermione replied.

"Yes, but you're," Parvati waved a hand as if that should explain everything.

"I'm his friend," Hermione said looking Parvati directly in the eye hoping the other woman understood what Hermione was trying to convey. They stared at one another for a few moments before Parvati gave her a nod. Hermione had no idea if there was anything more between Ron and Parvati than friendship, but it was clear that Parvati felt something for him.

If things had been different, if Harry were alive and they had won the war after the Battle of Hogwarts, then maybe Hermione and Ron might have been something more to each other. But as it was, Hermione couldn't even fathom a relationship between the two of them working, even if she weren't in love with Lucius. Perhaps one never would have, regardless of the circumstances. Hermione squeezed Parvati's hand and turned back to her breakfast, promising to take the other woman up to the house when she was finished.

She chatted with everyone as she ate, all of them sharing a bit of what they had been up to while Hermione had been at Malfoy Manor. She didn't delve too far into her own experiences. They were all aware of the prophecy and the Malfoys' cooperation in their efforts to bring down Voldemort. But specifics were not discussed and Hermione simply enjoyed being in the company of her friends once again.

Many of the people that had been in Charlie's camp wandered up as she was eating and she was introduced to them all. Parvati's parents joined them after a bit and Hermione was glad that the woman had been reunited with them. She only hoped that they could rescue Padma as well when she saw Parvati lean into her mother's side as the older woman put an arm around her shoulders.

When Hermione saw Professor Slughorn she was surprised at the amount of weight the man had lost. Although, she supposed it made sense given how rough they had all been living for so long. Food wasn't plentiful by any means. They greeted one another with a smile, although Hermione had never been close to the man.

When she had finally finished eating, her thoughts began to drift back to Lucius. As happy as she was to see her friends, she found herself very much wanting to return to the Manor. While it may have just

been fatigue coloring Lucius' mood, Hermione couldn't help but wonder if there were something else wrong. She had jumped up from Ron's bed rather quickly when the Healer had returned simply because she had told the man that she would just sit quietly in the corner. But perhaps Lucius had thought she was trying to hide something.

"Hermione?" Katie said and Hermione looked over at her friend. "Is everything all right?"

"Sorry, yes," Hermione said with a smile. "I think I need a bit more sleep."

"Don't we all?" Katie said with a laugh.

"I should probably get back," Hermione said. "I want to check on Ron before I go."

"You can stay here you know," Katie said. "There's plenty of room."

"I know," Hermione replied as she rose from the table. She smiled down at Katie. "But Mr. Malfoy and I need to continue to work together before we face You-Know-Who. I'll be back though, don't worry." Katie rose as well and hugged Hermione again.

"As long as you're sure," Katie said, looking concerned.

"I promise you, Katie. The Malfoys have treated me well."

"All right," Katie said. "It's just difficult to wrap my mind around, I guess."

"I know," Hermione replied, squeezing Katie's hand. She wasn't surprised Katie felt that way. She had nearly been killed by the necklace Draco attempted to deliver to Dumbledore after all. "Just remember he was a scared kid, terrified for his mother." Katie nodded.

"I'll see you soon," Hermione said and then made her good-byes to everyone else before finally escaping the stables to walk back to the house.

After checking on Ron and saying good-bye to Mrs. Weasley and Ginny, Hermione began her search for Theo. She returned to the sitting room where the Floo was located but really had no idea where to look for him. She wasn't about to go wandering around the house either. She wondered if any of the House Elves would respond to her.

"Pippen," Hermione said. The elf appeared a few moments later.

"How can Pippen be helping Miss?" he asked.

"I was wondering if you could tell me where Theo is?" Hermione said.

"Master be with Mistress Luna," the elf said. Hemione simply stared at him. Mistress Luna? Mistress was usually reserved for the actual lady of the house. Although Luna was carrying a Nott, Hermione supposed.

"Oh, well, I don't want to disturb them."

"What does Miss be needing?" Pippen asked.

"I was hoping to return to Malfoy Manor."

"Pippen can take you," the elf said, holding out his arm.

"Oh, that's all right, Pippen. I can just take the Floo if you can unward it."

"Pippen be taking you," the elf insisted.

"All right," Hermione said, not wanting to upset him. "Thank you." Pippen took Hermione's hand and they disappeared, landing in the entrance hall of Malfoy Manor.

"Thank you, Pippen," Hermione said again. "When you see Theo, could you tell him that I left?" Pippen nodded, then disappeared.

Hermione began to walk towards the staircase, intending on going to her room, but paused when she neared Lucius' study. She wasn't sure if he would be there but decided to check anyway. Knocking on the door, she waited. Hearing no response from within, Hermione tried the door. A quick glance inside revealed it to be empty.

"Can I be helping Miss?" a squeaky voice said and Hermione spun around to see another House Elf looking up at her. This must be the elf that Lucius had called the night before. Hermione hadn't had the chance to ask him about it earlier.

"I was looking for Lucius," Hermione said.

"Master Lucius be sleeping," the elf said. "He takes a potion."

"Oh," Hermione said.

"Master Draco and Sir be sleeping too." Hermione assumed Sir was Professor Snape.

"All right, thank you," Hermione said. "Liddy, right?" The elf nodded her head.

"Does Miss be wanting breakfast?"

"I already ate, thank you," Hermione said with a smile. "When Lucius wakes, will you please tell him I've returned."

"Yes, Miss," the elf said then disappeared with a quiet crack.

Hermione sighed and made her way to the stairs. She had really wanted to speak to Lucius, but she supposed it would be better if she napped first.

Lucius was seated at the dining table when Draco entered the room. His son looked tired and Lucius wondered how long he had slept this morning after he returned home and if he had already been back to Nott Manor.

"Liddy is serving lunch in a few minutes," Lucius said. Draco nodded. "Have you spoken to Miss Weasley this afternoon?"

"I just came from there," Draco said. "Weasley is doing better. The Healer thinks they may be able to lift the breathing charm later today."

"That is good news."

"Ginny and Mrs. Weasley want to stay until he's better," Draco said. "Theo gave them a bedroom in the house."

"Of course," Lucius replied. "We can keep Liddy here for a few days." The elf in question entered the room and dishes made their way to the table.

"Where's Granger?" Draco asked as he began to put food on his plate.

"Still sleeping I presume," Lucius said. "According to Liddy, she returned after breakfast." Draco studied his father for a few moments and Lucius studiously ignored him.

"Did something happen between you?"

"Why do you ask?"

"Because you went all proper Pureblood when you answered me," Draco said, indicating his father's posture and demeanor.

"What exactly does that mean?" Lucius asked.

"All stiff and formal," Draco said waving a hand towards his father.

"I am acting no differently than I always do," Lucius said, voice clipped. Draco snorted.

"All right, Father." Lucius' eyes narrowed.

"If you have something to say, Draco, I suggest you say it." Draco sighed.

"You're more…relaxed, I guess, when she's around." Draco paused. "You seemed…happy."

"We are in the middle of a war, Draco," Lucius retorted. "Last night we were nearly discovered. I think there is ample reason for me not to be happy right now."

"Fine, fine," Draco said going back to his lunch. "Forget I said anything."

Lucius returned to his own plate but found his appetite had gone. He picked at his food before turning his attention back to his son.

"Do you plan to return to Theo's this afternoon?"

"Yes," Draco replied. "Shacklebolt asked Theo and I to help with the training. He asked if you and Severus would be willing as well."

"I don't know if that's wise," Lucius said.

"Why not?"

"I am sure that there are plenty in the Resistance that would not be comfortable with my presence."

"You could say the same about me," Draco replied.

"It is not the same thing, Draco," Lucius argued. "I have been a Death Eater longer than you've been alive."

"And I let Death Eaters into the school my sixth year," Draco said, "Imperiused everyone's favorite pub owner and almost ended up killing both Bell and Weasley in my clumsy attempts to off the Headmaster."

"Both accidents," Lucius said.

"Fixing the vanishing cabinet wasn't."

"You were trying to protect your mother," Lucius said. "I joined willingly." Draco sighed.

"Fine, I'll tell Shacklebolt you're otherwise engaged," Draco said in annoyance. He pushed back from the table and stood. "But if you ever want people to start looking at you differently, then maybe you should let them see that you can be." He turned and left the room.

When Hermione opened her eyes, the sun was high in the sky. It was noon at least, she realized, perhaps even later. She yawned and sat up in bed, stretching for minute before she sighed and slumped back against her pillows. Her stomach growled and she knew she should get up and shower and eat something, not to mention find Lucius, but she couldn't bring herself to do that just yet.

Hermione knew that whatever was bothering him had to do with Ron. Lucius hadn't started acting differently until he found her in Ron's room early this morning. She thought again about the look she had seen on his face when he'd left her in the corridor outside Ron's room. He had looked jealous but that was utterly ridiculous. Lucius Malfoy would not be jealous of Ron Weasley in a million years. Still, something had upset him.

Hermione also needed to ask him about Liddy. He had told her that Voldemort had killed all of his elves. She didn't know why Lucius would have lied to her about something like that and she wasn't saying that he had. But where had Liddy come from?

Sighing again, Hermione finally threw back her blankets and rose from her bed. If she wanted to get back to Nott Manor this afternoon, she needed to get her day started.

Freshly showered and stomach growling insistently, Hermione made her way downstairs to the kitchens. A quick peek in the dining room as she passed by showed it to be empty. Which wasn't a surprise, it was nearly two o'clock. She hadn't seen anyone on her journey from her room, although she hadn't gone past Lucius' study. She would stop there after she ate.

Stepping into the kitchen, all was quiet. Hermione was sure that Ginny and Mrs. Weasley would stay at Nott Manor until Ron was recovered, but she did wonder where Liddy was. Hermione was perfectly capable of getting her own lunch, but the quiet was a bit disconcerting.

Hermione walked to the cold cabinet intent on just making a sandwich when a small pop made her jump. She turned to see the little House Elf looking up at her.

"What does Miss be needing?"

"I was just going to make myself a sandwich," Hermione said.

"Liddy will be making Miss some lunch."

"That's all right," Hermione said. "I can do it myself." Liddy scowled at her and put her hands on her hips.

"This be Liddy's job." Hermione involuntarily took a step back.

"I just don't want to trouble you," she said.

"Liddy not be having work for months and months," the elf said. "I be making you's lunch."

"All right," Hermione said, finally giving in. Liddy's statement confused her further.

"Where have you been that you didn't have work, Liddy?"

"Miss not be worrying about Liddy," the elf said as she prepared Hermione's lunch. Hermione had to bite her lip to keep from smiling. Liddy certainly was rather bossy.

Hermione sat down at the small table in the corner of the kitchen and Liddy set her lunch in front of her. Hermione thanked the elf who ignored her and began to tidy the kitchen.

"Is Lucius awake yet?" Hermione asked.

"Master Lucius be visiting the Mistress," Liddy said, her ears drooping slightly as she said it.

"Oh," Hermione said. She knew that Lucius visited his wife's grave from time to time. Hermione wasn't sure why hearing it today caused a lump to form in her throat and her heart to clench. She turned back to her lunch but had to force herself to eat. She had suddenly lost her appetite.

Finally, when she had eaten enough that she wouldn't accidentally insult the House Elf, Hermione thanked Liddy and rose from the table.

"Is Draco here, do you know?" Hermione asked.

"Master Draco goes back to Mister Theo's house with the potions man."

"Thank you, Liddy." Hermione left the kitchens.

She walked to Lucius' study, hoping that maybe he had returned from the family cemetery. It was obvious that Liddy belonged here. Hermione didn't understand why Lucius would lie about it. It made no sense.

The study door was open and the room was empty when Hermione reached it. She sighed and walked to the window, looking out across the grounds. She saw no sign of Lucius, although he would have likely just Apparated back to the house instead of walking the distance across the grounds. The cemetery wasn't visible from here, it was too far away.

Hermione knew that Kingsley intended to start training today. And she really wanted to see how Ron was doing. She figured that Ginny had likely seen Luna by now and hoped that Luna's condition hadn't upset the redhead too much. Hermione had wanted to speak with Lucius before she returned to Nott Manor, but she had no idea how long he would be or even if he was planning on returning the to study. The manor was huge, it was not beyond the realm of possibility that Lucius could already be in the house and Hermione wouldn't know. She realized she had no idea where his rooms even were.

Biting her lip, she picked up a quill from Lucius desk and found a scrap of parchment. She wrote him a quick note, telling him she had returned to Nott Manor for the afternoon but would be back for supper. Hoping that the Floo was open since Draco and Professor Snape had already gone ahead, Hermione picked up the Floo powder, threw it in the grate and called out for Nott Manor.

Lucius returned to his study after sitting in the mausoleum for nearly an hour. He hadn't gotten any more clarity from his time there than he had before he went. But he did feel a bit calmer. He had stopped in the kitchens first and Liddy had informed him that Hermione had eaten lunch but had no idea where she had gone afterward. Lucius assumed she was either in the library or her room.

He knew that he should speak with her. She had to be curious about Liddy at the very least. And Lucius was sure that she would want to return to Nott Manor as well. Still, he found himself in his study instead of seeking her out.

Lucius wandered to his desk and sat down heavily in his chair with a sigh. He leaned back and closed his eyes, Draco's earlier words echoed through his head. While what Lucius had said was true, he did not think that the Resistance would appreciate him participating in the training, it was more than that. Spending more time at Nott Manor would inevitably lead to spending more time with Hermione and that was something he was not sure he could do. As much as he wanted what was best for her, he did not want to watch it happen.

Opening his eyes, Lucius looked down at his desk and saw the note lying there. He picked it up and read it, unable to help the spike of jealousy at its contents. Hermione had already returned to Nott Manor, not even bothering to wait to speak to him. She said that she would return for supper, but he hardly expected she actually would. He was sure that once she spent more time with her friends, she would simply stay there.

Lucius stared at the piece of parchment for several minutes, once again trying to convince himself that this was for the best. Finally, he rose and stalked to the drinks' cabinet. He poured himself a healthy measure of Ogden's and downed it in one go, refilling his glass immediately. Just because it was the right thing to do did not mean he had to like it.

Hermione was siphoning the ash from her clothes when she heard her name. She looked up at smiled at Ginny as she came into the room. Hermione's smile faltered, however, at the look on Ginny's face.

"What is it?" Hermione asked immediately. "Is it Ron?"

"Did you know?" Ginny demanded.

"Know what?" Hermione asked in confusion. "Ginny, is Ron all right?"

"About Luna, did you know about Luna?" Ginny crossed her arms over her chest, looking furious. Hermione sighed.

"Yes," she said. "I found out after I met with Kingsley and Ron the first time."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"It wasn't my place," Hermione said.

"She's my friend!"

"I realize that, Gin, but-"

"I can't believe she's keeping it!"

"Ginny," Hermione said. "Keep your voice down."

"He raped her, Hermione!"

"I know, Gin," Hermione said quietly, trying to calm the other woman. "I know." Ginny seemed to crumple and put her face in her hands. Hermione took her arm and led her to the couch. She was sure that seeing the evidence of what Luna had suffered had brought back plenty of memories Ginny tried valiantly to forget. She put her arms around Ginny and let the younger woman cry into her shoulder.

"It's her choice, Ginny," Hermione said. "We just have to be there for her." Ginny took a shuddering breath and pulled back, wiping her face with the back of her hand. Hermione conjured a tissue and handed it to her. Ginny smiled gratefully.

"I will, I swear, it's just," she trailed off and shook her head.

"I know," Hermione said, reaching over and squeezing Ginny's hand. Ginny pulled in a breath and let it out, then gave Hermione a watery smile.

"How is Ron?" Hermione asked deciding to change the subject. Ginny's smile grew a bit brighter.

"He's getting better. Slowly, but the Healer said it's encouraging." Hermione felt something loosen in her chest.

"That's wonderful news."

"You can go up and see him," Ginny said. "Mum and Madame Pomfrey are with him now. The Healer is napping."

"Are you coming with me?" Hermione asked.

"No, I think I'm going to go and find Draco," Ginny said. "He's helping Kingsley with the training. Throwing a few hexes might be what I need right now." Hermione smiled and squeezed Ginny's hand again before she stood. Ginny stood as well and the two of them hugged once more before Ginny made her way outside and Hermione headed up the stairs to see Ron.

"Hello, dear," Mrs. Weasley said when Hermione entered the room. "Did you sleep?"

"For a few hours, yes," Hermione said. "I saw Ginny. She says he's a bit better."

"Yes, thank Merlin," Mrs. Weasley said, looking down at Ron. She brushed a lock of hair from his forehead. "He needs a haircut." Hermione smiled.

"I offered a few times but he didn't trust me doing it without magic." Mrs. Weasley smiled fondly at him.

"Well, once he's up and around, I'll have to give him a trim. Charlie could use one as well." Hermione had to blink to keep the unexpected tears that had gathered from falling. It was just such a normal, Mrs. Weasley thing to say. Hearing it made the fact that things were most definitely not normal all the more obvious, somehow.

"What does the Healer say about the breathing charm?" Hermione asked.

"The modification to the curse was set for twenty-four hours so it will keep healing him until early tomorrow morning. The Healer felt that leaving the breathing charm on until then would be beneficial. He isn't sure how much damage will remain after the modification is no longer active." Hermione nodded.

"I'm so glad he's going to be all right," she said. Mrs. Weasley reached out and squeezed Hermione's hand, then turned back to Ron. Hermione watched for a few more minutes and then decided she just might like to hex a few things as well.

"I'm going to join the training," she said. "I'll stop back in before I go back to the manor."

"All right, dear," Mrs. Weasley said.

Hermione left the room and made her way back down the stairs and outside to join the Resistance.

Lucius was leaning back against the arm of the couch in his study, sipping at his drink when the fire turned green. He looked over and saw Hermione step out of the flames. She stopped short when she saw him, then attempted a smile. Lucius stared at her for a moment before he turned back to his drink.

"I did not expect to see you," he said taking another gulp. He had lost track of which glass this was. The sixth? Seventh?

"You didn't get my note?" she asked in confusion. "I left it on your desk."

"Yes, I found it," he said. "I just did not expect you back."

"I said that I would be back for supper," she said still obviously puzzled.

"Yes, well," he said taking another drink. He looked up at her. "And how is Mr. Weasley today?"

"He's doing better," she replied looking warily at him. "The modification to the curse is still working. The Healer has decided to keep the breathing charm on him until the modification expires early tomorrow morning."

"I expect you will return for that," Lucius said.

"I thought I would, yes," she said.

"Might as well have just stayed then," Lucius muttered.

"Sorry?" she said.

"I said, why bother returning at all then?" He looked up at her challengingly and Hermione stared at him for a moment.

"Because I said that I would," she replied. He snorted and took another drink. She frowned. "Is something wrong?"

"What could possibly be wrong?" he asked. She crossed her arms over her chest. He stared at the way they framed her breasts for a moment before he forced his gaze back to her face.

"I don't know, but you're acting like an arse," she retorted. "Is this because I stayed with Ron this morning?"

"Of course not," he said waving his hand so his drink sloshed in the glass.

"I told you that I promised Mrs. Weasley," she said.

"You are welcome to do as you like. We do not answer to one another." He saw her stiffen at that.

"In fact," Lucius continued. "Feel free to spend as much time at Theo's as you wish. I am sure that he has a bedroom you can move into if you prefer not to continue coming back and forth."

"Why are you acting like this?" Hermione asked. Seeing that his glass was empty, Lucius got unsteadily to his feet. He managed to walk over to the drinks' cabinet to pour himself another.

"I am sure that I do not know what you mean," he replied keeping his back to her as he picked up the bottle of Firewhiskey.

"I thought," she began then trailed off. He turned to look at her.

"You thought what?" he asked, turning to look at her. She stared at him for a moment before shaking her head.

"Never mind."

There was a small pop and both turned to see Liddy standing in the room.

"Supper is being served," Liddy said hands on her hips as she stared at Lucius. "Sir and Master Draco is waiting."

"I will not be having supper this evening, Liddy," Lucius said. "However, I am sure that Miss Granger will be joining them." He saw Hermione flinch from the corner of his eye.

"Liddy thinks Master Lucius needs to be eating." She eyed the drink in his hand with distaste.

"Well, Master Lucius does not agree," he said. The elf huffed and turned to Hermione.

"Will Miss be eating?"

"I," Hermione began, then glanced at Lucius. He studiously ignored her. "I'm not sure, but please don't wait on my account." The little elf huffed, then snapped her fingers and disappeared. There was silence in the study for a few minutes before Hermione finally spoke again.

"You really should eat," she said. "It's clear you need something to soak up all that alcohol." He scoffed.

"I do not believe you are my keeper." Lucius felt a pang of remorse when she looked at him sadly.

"No, it's clear I am not." He wanted to apologize. He wanted to beg forgiveness, take her in his arms and never let her go. But he refrained. It was better this way. It would make the break between them easier when it inevitably happened, whether by his incarceration or her resumption of her relationship with Weasley.

"You told me that all of your House Elves were killed," she said. "Or was that a lie for some kind of sympathy?"

"No," he retorted. "The Dark Lord did kill all of my elves. Liddy belonged to my wife. Narcissa sent her away for her safety after the Malfoy elves were killed." Hermione looked at him again as he drained his glass.

"Lucius," she said softly. He saw the concern in her eyes and had to turn away from her.

"I suggest you join Severus and Draco if you intend to have supper," he said.

"Will you come with me?" she asked.

"I think you just heard me say that I would not."

"I don't know what's going on," she said, "or why you've spent the afternoon trying to drown yourself in drink. If it's because of this morning, I only jumped up from the bed because the Healer was coming. He didn't want anyone to stay and I promised him I would just sit in the chair in the corner and watch. Mrs. Weasley wouldn't have left Ron alone and she needed some sleep. I wasn't trying to hide anything from you."

"It matters not," Lucius said.

"Doesn't it?" she asked. He turned to face her. He could end this right now. He could apologize and she would forgive him. He could pull her into his arms and tell her how he felt. But it wouldn't be fair to her.

"What matters now is concentrating on our plan to end the Dark Lord. Getting the Resistance back into fighting shape. That is all." She stared at him for a moment before final nodding.

"Then I suppose there is no reason not to take Katie up on her offer to stay with the Resistance," she said.

"No," he said quietly. "I suppose there is not." They stared at one another for a few minutes before Hermione finally turned and groped for the Floo powder on the mantel. Throwing it into the fireplace, she called out for Nott Manor and disappeared.

Hermione hurried across the grounds to the stables where she knew the Resistance was having supper. She hoped that there wouldn't be too many questions about her reappearance as she had told everyone after training this afternoon that she was returning to the Manor for the night.

She paused outside the door of the stables and gathered herself as well as she could. She attempted to put up the meager Occlumency walls she had managed to create over the last few weeks but wasn't sure how successful she was as her emotions were not dulled in the least. Taking a deep breath, she tried to center herself. She plastered a smile on her face and walked inside.

"Hermione," Katie said in surprise as Hermione walked towards her. "I thought you were going back to Malfoy Manor."

"Change of plans," Hermione said brightly. "I wanted to be here when the Healer removes Ron's breathing charm, so I figured I might as well just stay instead of disrupting everyone with the Floo in the middle of the night." Katie studied her for a moment.

"Are you all right?"

"I'm fine," Hermione said. Katie put her hand on Hermione's arm.

"Ron is going to be all right, you know," she said. "Charlie said the Healer is very happy with his progress."

"I know," Hermione said glad that Katie had seemed to find a reason for Hermione's odd behavior. "It's just still worrying." Katie nodded and patted Hermione's arm.

"Did you eat?" she asked.

"I'm not really hungry," Hermione replied.

"You have to have something," Katie said pulling a platter of chicken towards them. "I saw how hard you worked this afternoon." Hermione took a piece of chicken and a scoop of vegetables to placate her friend. Katie chattered away about training and how good it was to be able to use magic again. Hermione nodded when appropriate and mostly pushed the food around on her plate. She managed a few bites but not enough to erase Katie's frown of concern.

"Are you sure that you're all right?" Katie asked.

"Just tired," Hermione said.

"You should sleep for a while before everything happens with Ron. There's an extra bunk in our room you can use."

"Oh no, I couldn't," Hermione protested. She was sure that Katie and Oliver wanted their privacy.

"Hermione," Katie said. "You need to sleep. Come on." Hermione finally nodded knowing it would do no good to argue with the other woman. Katie kissed Oliver's cheek and told him she would be right back, then led Hermione from the stables to the tent.

"The loo is right over there," Katie said pointing to a door a few feet down the corridor before taking her into her bedroom. "Right here," she said pointing to the single bed in the room. The other had obviously been expanded for Katie and Oliver.

"Thanks, Katie," Hermione said. Katie hugged her.

"He'll be okay, Hermione." Hermione could only nod, throat tightening. She wondered what Katie would say if she knew Hermione was thinking not about Ron, but Lucius.

Katie left her then and Hermione lay down on the small bed and faced the wall of the tent. She set an alarm on her wand, then pulled the blankets up over her. The bed was nothing like the luxurious one she slept on at the manor. Thoughts of Lucius once again flooded her and Hermione did nothing to stop the tears that began to run down her cheeks.

She must have fallen asleep because the next thing Hermione knew, her wand was heating up in her hand. She cancelled the alarm and slowly rolled over. Katie and Oliver were fast asleep, Katie's head pillowed on Oliver's chest. The sight caused a pang of hurt in Hermione's chest.

She quietly got out of bed and walked down the corridor to the loo. She looked at herself in the mirror and sighed at her red-rimmed eyes. She wondered how long she had cried before she fell asleep. Waving her wand to conceal both her puffy eyes and blotchy skin, Hermione left the loo and made her way out of the tent. When she stepped outside, she saw another figure a few feet in front of her. It was a woman, but Hermione couldn't tell just who in the dark. She hurried her steps and realized it was Parvati.

"Parvati," Hermione called quietly. The other woman jumped and turned around, drawing a wand that Hermione hadn't realized she had obtained. It must have been one of the extra wands from the Malfoys' vault. Hermione immediately raised her hands "It's Hermione."

"Hermione," Parvati said, putting a hand to her chest. "You scared the life out of me."

"Sorry," Hermione said.

"I didn't even know you were here," Parvati said as they continued walking towards the house. "I thought you went back to Malfoy Manor."

"I did," Hermione replied. "But I wanted to be here when they took the charm off of Ron, so I decided to come back. Easier than trying to get here in the middle of the night." Parvati nodded in understanding.

"You've got a wand," Hermione said.

"Yeah, Malfoy gave it to me this afternoon. It's not the best, but it will do." They walked in silence for a few minutes.

"Do you think Mrs. Weasley will mind?" Parvati asked. "That I'm there, I mean."

"Of course not," Hermione said. "I told you, you're always welcome." She smiled at the other woman as they reached the house.

"Hermione, I," Parvati paused. "I know what you said yesterday and I just, I wanted you to know that nothing's happened between Ron and me."

"Parvati," Hermione began but Parvati interrupted her.

"I, he's just been there for me. I mean I have my parents, but they treat me, well, like I'm going to break at any second really. Ron's just, he's different and I," she paused and shook her head. "I don't think I could anyway, not now, and it's probably not fair to him because I don't know if I'll ever be able to and if you, I mean if the two of you-"

"Parvati," Hermione said again. "Ron and I are friends. I mean we were…together a few times but there was no commitment. It was more of a comfort thing, you know?" Hermione's throat began to tighten as she realized that it had been exactly the same thing with Lucius, at first at least. Now, it was completely different for Hermione, but obviously things hadn't changed for him. She shook off those thoughts. Now was not the time.

"He's still my best friend. But we'll never be more than that," Hermione continued. "So please don't feel like you have to explain anything to me. Okay?" Parvati nodded.

"I just, he makes me feel safe," Parvati whispered. Hermione smiled.

"I'm glad," she said. Ginny had said the same thing about Draco. Hermione wondered what Ron would think if he knew that the two of them weren't that different. "Come on, let's go see Ron."

Hermione stood between Ginny and Parvati, holding each of their hands as the Healer prepared to remove the breathing charm from Ron. Charlie had his arm around his mother's shoulders and Kingsley stood in the doorway looking stoic. Poppy was on the other side of Ron's bed, her own wand ready in case there was trouble.

The Healer removed the charm and they all waited, Mrs. Weasley with a hand pressed to her mouth. It seemed to take forever, which Hermione knew was simply the stress of the situation, but Ron's chest finally rose as he took a breath on his own.

Mrs. Weasley immediately began to cry and Ginny and Parvati both squeezed Hermione's hands tightly. The Healer waved his wand, doing a diagnostic. He studied it for a moment, then cast another spell on Ron's chest. He finally turned to Mrs. Weasley.

"I've cast another healing spell on his lungs. We will keep him sedated while it finishes its work. However, I am confident he will make a full recovery." Mrs. Weasley's knees buckled and Charlie quickly helped her into the chair next to Ron's bed. He squatted down in front of her.

Hermione pulled Ginny into a hug, then did the same for Parvati. Ginny went to her mother and Parvati took a few steps towards Ron's bed.

"Go ahead," Hermione said with a smile. Parvati sat at the foot of the bed, watching the Healer work. Hermione felt a hand on her shoulder and looked up to see Kingsley smiling at her.

"Thank Merlin," he said. Hermione nodded. The tears she had been keeping at bay since she spoke to Lucius spilled out of her eyes. Kingsley frowned and then pulled her into his arms.

"It's all right, Hermione," he rumbled in her ear. "He'll be all right." Hermione nodded against his chest, feeling horrible that she was glad everyone would just assume she was crying over Ron.

"I know, I'm sorry," she said as she pulled away, wiping at her cheeks. Kingsley smiled at her.

"It has been a stressful few days," he said. "I believe you are entitled." She gave him a watery smile and he squeezed her shoulder. "I need to get back. I am sure there are quite a few people waiting to hear the news." Hermione nodded and he left the room.

"Hey," Ginny said walking up to Hermione with a look of concern on her face. "You all right?"

"Yeah," Hermione said. "It's just been a lot."

"No kidding," Ginny said. "Mum's sent me off to bed. Come with me. We'll take Parvati too." Hermione started to decline, then thought better of it. It's not as if anyone was expecting her back at the Manor.

"All right," she said with a smile. Ginny grinned and went to fetch Parvati, then led the two of them to the suite Theo had given Ginny and her mother.