A/N - Here we are, last regular chapter before the epilogue. I hope everyone is happy with the verdicts. I honestly can't believe it's almost finished. I have plans for the epilogue, but if there is anything you would like to see, let me know in a review. I can't promise I will include everything, but I will try. Thanks for reading and reviewing!
Chapter 49
Verdicts
"Hermione?" Ginny asked. "You've been awfully quiet. Everything okay?"
Hermione turned to Ginny and smiled, hoping it looked genuine. Truth be told, she was terrified. She had meant what she said to Lucius, if people couldn't accept them then they weren't really her friends, but it still hurt to think that the Weasleys might reject her.
Hermione had always considered them her surrogate family and now that it was unlikely she would be able to reverse the memory charm on her parents, they were all she had. She knew that she wouldn't be completely alone, Luna, Katie and Kingsley would always be there for her, Poppy too, but with Ginny seeing Draco, it would be extremely awkward if the Weasleys were to cut her out of their lives.
Ron would be incensed, she was sure, but Ginny accepted her and Lucius and while Hermione had not told her explicitly, she was positive that Mrs. Weasley knew about them as well. But if Ron refused to see her, well, she couldn't exactly go over for family dinners or anything, now, could she?
"I'm all right, Gin," Hermione finally said. She had to do this. It would be worse if they found out during the trial. "Actually, I need to talk to everyone. I'll find Ron and Charlie. Can you get your mum?"
"Sure, Hermione," Ginny said, brow furrowed in confusion. Still, she asked no questions and just climbed the stairs to fetch her mother from Bill and Fleur's room.
"Hello, Hermione," Luna said as she and Theo walked into the sitting room together. They had appeared closer since the end of Theo's trial and Hermione was glad for it.
"Luna," Hermione said in relief. She hadn't seen her blonde friend since dinner and had hoped that she would have at least one friendly face when she told the Weasleys.
"Would you like us to stay?" Luna asked.
"If you wouldn't mind," Hermione said. She hadn't told Luna that she planned to tell the rest but as usual, Luna seemed to know.
"Of course," Luna said and she moved to one of the couches and sat down. Theo, although Hermione could tell that he had no idea what was going on, followed Luna anyway, sitting down next to her. Severus had gone back to his own home after supper to check the extent of the damages. He was sure there was some after Theo had told him they searched his house when they had all escaped to the lodge. Hermione wasn't sure if she were glad he was gone or wished he were here just to have someone else that knew her secret.
Hermione moved to the back door to find Ron and Charlie when it opened and Ron walked in of his own accord. Charlie was behind him. Ron glanced at her, then looked behind her with a frown. Hermione turned to see Ginny and Mrs. Weasley walking down the stairs.
"What's going on?" Ron asked his mother. "I thought you were sitting with Bill and Fleur."
"I was," Mrs. Weasley replied. "But Hermione wanted to speak with all of us." Ron looked at Hermione, brow furrowed.
"Why don't you all sit down," Hermione said. Everyone took a seat, save Ron. He was still looking at her as if he were trying to figure out what she was going to say. "Ron?" He crossed his arms over his chest.
"I'm fine," he said. Hermione bit back a sigh.
"Suit yourself," she said, sitting down on Luna's other side. "There's something I need to talk to you all about before Lucius' trial." No one said anything, simply continued to look at her. Hermione's heart began to beat faster and she could feel her palms start to sweat. She resisted the urge to rub them on her robes.
"As you all know, I'm going to testify on his behalf." Hermione saw Ron scowl but no one else made a face or said anything. "And, well, some things are going to come up that you're not aware of just yet."
"Um, Hermione, I don't think we really need details," Charlie said and Hermione couldn't help but smile at his smirking face.
"Charlie!" Molly chastised. Ginny stifled a laugh behind her hand. Hermione felt like kissing Charlie for breaking the tension in the room, although Ron looked a bit green.
"Moving on," Hermione said. She glanced around the room at everyone. Luna gave her an encouraging smile.
"What I was going to say is that Lucius and I, we, well," she trailed off and bit her lip.
"What is it, dear?" Mrs. Weasley asked. Hermione pulled in a breath and let it out. Are you a Gryffindor or not? she asked herself.
"I'm…pregnant," she finally said. Luna smiled at her but the rest of the room was completely silent. Even Theo looked shocked.
"You're not," Ron finally said, his ears bright red and his hands were in fists by his side. Somehow, seeing his anger, gave Hermione more courage than she had before.
"I am," she replied coolly.
"Hermione are you certain?" Mrs. Weasley asked.
"Yes," she said. "Poppy found it on a scan a few days ago and she did a pregnancy charm to confirm it."
"Pregnant?" Ginny said and Hermione nodded. Ginny still looked gobsmacked.
"What the fuck, Hermione!?" Ron exploded.
"It wasn't planned," Hermione said. "I was taking the potion but with everything that happened these last couple of weeks, I missed a dose."
"Missed a dose, sure," Ron said scathingly. Hermione looked at him in confusion. "I'm sure Malfoy made sure you 'missed a dose'."
"What are you talking about?" Hermione asked.
"Ron," Charlie warned but Ron ignored his brother.
"You don't think this doesn't just play perfectly for him?" Ron demanded. "Knocks up a Muggle-born, Hermione Granger no less, and then pretends how happy he is about it for the Wizengamot. Good old Lucius, he's changed so much, hasn't he? Even willing to accept a half-blood bas-…baby."
"Ronald!" Mrs. Weasley admonished but Hermione was already on her feet. She was fully aware of what Ron had been about to say. For his part, Ron did look a bit sorry but Hermione didn't care.
"I didn't mean," he began but Hermione interrupted.
"How dare you!" she hissed.
"I'm sorry, all right?" Ron said. "I shouldn't have said that and I didn't mean it. But that doesn't change the fact that everything else I said was true."
"Oh really?" Hermione retorted, crossing her arms over her chest. "You know exactly what's in Lucius' head now, do you?"
"I've got a pretty good idea, yeah," Ron said, mirroring her posture. Hermione stared at him for a moment before she shook her head.
"You're such an arsehole, Ronald Weasley," she replied, biting the inside of her cheek to stop the tears she could feel in the back of her eyes. She was not going to cry over something Ron said. Not again.
"Just remember, Hermione, people like him don't change," Ron said. Then he spun on his heel and left the house, slamming the door behind him.
Hermione stared after him for a moment and then sank down onto the couch again, putting her face in her hands. Luna put a hand on her back in support.
"I'm sorry, Hermione," Charlie said. Hermione looked up at him but he had nothing but sympathy on his face and she realized he was apologizing for Ron. "Are you…happy about this?"
"It wasn't what I planned but, yes, I am."
"Then I'm happy for you," Charlie said. Hermione felt tears gather in her eyes.
"Thanks, Charlie." He smiled and her and stood. Walking past her, he squeezed her shoulder and then left the house. Hermione assumed he was going to find Ron.
"Hermione," Mrs. Weasley said and Hermione looked up her. She looked concerned. "I am so sorry about Ron but," the older woman trailed off.
"But what?" Hermione prompted.
"Are you sure that what he said isn't somewhat true?"
"Lucius did not do this on purpose," Hermione said, her anger flaring again.
"That isn't what I meant," Mrs. Weasley continued. "Merlin knows it's easy to forget to take the potion. That's how Bill came along after all, as well as Ginny."
"Mum!" Ginny said. "That is something I never needed to know." Mrs. Weasley did not look the least bit sorry and Hermione couldn't help but smile.
"No, dear, I meant don't you think that Lucius may be using your pregnancy to help his case?"
"No," Hermione said coldly.
"I don't mean that he doesn't want the child," Mrs. Weasley said quickly. Hermione relaxed fractionally.
"This was my idea, not Lucius'," Hermione said. "He doesn't even know what I'm going to say." Mrs. Weasley was surprised by that.
"Are you sure that's wise, dear? I don't know Lucius well but it seems to me that he's a very private man when it comes to his family."
"He told me that it was up to me when I told people," Hermione replied. "All he wanted was to tell Draco and Severus."
"Hermione, I," Mrs. Weasley began but Hermione interrupted her.
"Mrs. Weasley, if it were one of your children on trial or, or, Mr. Weasley," Hermione gave the woman an apologetic look when she flinched at the mention of her husband, "wouldn't you do whatever you could to help them?"
"Yes, I would," Mrs. Weasley agreed with a sigh.
"Then I'm going to do this," Hermione said. "If it gets him a lighter sentence, if he can actually be a part of this child's life, of my life, then I have to." Mrs. Weasley studied her for a few moments and then nodded.
"All right, dear," she said. She stood from her chair and approached the couch. Hermione stood as well and nearly started to cry again when the older woman pulled her into her arms.
"If there is anything you need, any questions you have, you'll come to me, yes?"
"Yes," Hermione promised. Mrs. Weasley pulled back from her and cupped Hermione's face in her hands.
"I'm sorry about Ron but he'll come round." Hermione nodded and Mrs. Weasley smiled. "I need to get back to Bill and Fleur."
"Thank you," Hermione managed. Mrs. Weasley patted her cheek and left the room. Hermione looked over to where Ginny sat, staring off across the room.
"Ginny?" Hermione questioned. Ginny looked up at her but didn't say anything.
"Theo let's go to the library," Luna said rising from the couch. "I did so like those poems you were reading to me." Theo's cheeks pinkened but he stood as well. He gave Hermione a nod as he walked past and Luna squeezed her hand.
"Ginny," Hermione said again when they were the only two left in the room. Hermione sat back down on the couch across from Ginny's armchair.
"Sorry," Ginny finally said.
"It's all right," Hermione replied although she wasn't sure what the redhead was apologizing for.
"This is just, I never expected," Ginny shook her head.
"Neither did I," Hermione said with a wry smile. "Trust me, becoming a mother at twenty was never in my plans."
"But you're going to," Ginny said.
"Yes," Hermione replied.
"Even if you have to do this by yourself?"
"I hope that I won't have to, but even if Lucius goes to prison, I won't be completely alone. At least, I hope I won't be." Hermione looked tentatively at Ginny.
"Of course, you won't," Ginny said. The knot in Hermione's stomach loosened. "It's just, are you sure, Hermione?"
"I'm sure," Hermione said. Ginny nodded. "You don't, I mean you're not upset that it's Lucius?"
"Well, I am dating his son," Ginny said with a smile. "So, I really can't object to that, can I?" Hermione laughed lightly. Ginny's smile slowly left her face and she turned pensive.
"What is it?" Hermione asked.
"I'm really scared about what's going to happen tomorrow," Ginny said in a small voice. "If Draco, if he goes to Azkaban, I don't know if I can, I don't know what I'll do." Hermione rose and moved to Ginny's side, kneeling down next to her. She took Ginny's hand.
"You're not going to be alone, Gin," Hermione said softly. "You have your family. You have me and Luna and everyone else."
"I know but," Ginny shook her head.
"We're not Draco," Hermione finished.
"I sound like such a spoiled brat," Ginny said, wiping at the tears on her cheeks. "So many people lost so much more than me."
"It's not a contest," Hermione said. "Your feelings are just as valid as everyone else's. It's all right to be upset about what happened to you even if there's someone else worse off than you are. And it's all right to be scared you might lose Draco, even temporarily."
"Aren't you scared?" Ginny asked. "About Lucius, I mean."
"Terrified," Hermione admitted. "I feel the same way. I know I have all of you and that I won't have to raise this baby alone. But it still won't be the same if Lucius isn't here." Ginny nodded and the two of them sat in silence for a few minutes.
"Ron still sees things as very black and white," Ginny said. "Either you're on the Light side or you're a Death Eater. He rarely looks at all the grey in between."
"I know," Hermione said. "It's one of his worst faults, actually."
"I thought that was his table manners," Ginny said and Hermione laughed. Ginny smiled at her and Hermione knew that it was going to be all right. Even if Ron never accepted Lucius or their baby, it was still going to be all right.
"Has he heard from Parvati since she left?" Hermione asked.
"He got an owl yesterday," Ginny said. "They're meeting in Diagon this weekend." Hermione was glad to hear it. She thought that part of Ron's mood lately was probably due to being worried about Parvati. Hermione didn't think they'd been in contact since Parvati had left with her family last week.
"I think I'm going to go sit with Mum," Ginny said as she stood. Hermione followed suit. "Don't worry too much about Ron. You know he needs time to process things."
"I know," Hermione said. "Thanks, Ginny." The two women hugged and then Ginny walked up the stairs. Hermione watched her go before sighing and sinking into her vacated chair. It had gone better than she'd expected, she had to admit. Ron was never going to take it well, no matter what. She would just have to do what Ginny said and give him time.
"Draco Malfoy, we have reviewed all testimony given and you have been found guilty of all charges." Hermione felt Ginny flinch beside her and the younger woman gripped Hermione's hand more tightly. Hermione wasn't completely worried yet. Theo had been found guilty as well but had only gotten probation.
"You are hereby sentenced to six months of house arrest. During this time, you will be expected to hire tutors in order to complete your education and sit your N.E.W.T.S. You will surrender your wand for this time period except when it is needed for your studies.
After your house arrest, provided you have passed your exams, you will be subject to two years of probation. Your wand will be returned to you; however, it will be monitored monthly for Dark Magic. You will be expected to obtain gainful employment or enter into an apprenticeship once you receive the results of your N.E.W.T.S. Should you fail to fulfill any of these requirements you will be remanded to Azkaban prison. Do you understand the terms of your sentence?"
"Yes, sir," Draco said. The Chief Warlock looked up at Draco.
"You have made grave mistakes in your young life, Mr. Malfoy. However, this court believes that you have begun to try to rectify those mistakes. We certainly hope that you continue down this path and leave the Darkness behind you."
"Yes, sir," Draco said again. "Thank you."
"You will need to remain in your holding cell until your home can be thoroughly checked and cleared. There will also be monitoring wards that will need to be cast. You will have one hour with your solicitor before being returned to your cell." The chains fell away from Draco's wrists and ankles and retracted back into his chair.
Draco stood and turned to look at Ginny. She gave him a watery smile. Hermione leaned back on her bench and caught Kingsley's eye. She tipped her head towards Ginny and Kingsley nodded, understanding what Hermione was asking. Ginny needed to see Draco before his house arrest began. Hermione knew there would be rules about who could come into the house while Draco was serving his six months. If Ginny wasn't going to be allowed, she needed to be able to see Draco beforehand.
"Ginny," Kingsley said. Ginny looked up at him. "Come with me."
"Where?" she asked in confusion.
"Being Minister has a few perks," he said with a wink. Ginny practically jumped from her seat to follow Kingsley.
"Thank you," Mrs. Weasley said to Hermione once they had gone.
"You know," Hermione said. "Ginny never had her seventh year and I don't know how comfortable she would be going back to Hogwarts to finish. Maybe she could use the services of a tutor as well." Hermione looked innocently at Mrs. Weasley, who smirked.
"Perhaps you're right," Mrs. Weasley said. "I do sometimes wonder, Hermione, if you were put in the right House."
"The Hat did have trouble deciding," Hermione said with a shrug. Of course, it had mostly been a choice between Ravenclaw and Gryffindor. While Slytherin had been suggested, it had been rejected out of hand by the Sorting Hat, given the climate in the school at the time. No one would have been ready for a Muggleborn in Slytherin, least of all Hermione herself.
"Are you going to the Burrow today?" Hermione asked as they stood and began to walk from the courtroom. Charlie and Ron, who was still not talking to her, had gone a few days ago and while the house was still standing, it had been searched and partly ransacked. They had been doing repairs the last few days, as well as strengthening the wards. They wanted their mother to come and tell them if there were things she wanted repaired, or if she just intended to replace most of the furniture.
"Yes," Mrs. Weasley said with a sigh. Hermione knew that the woman had been putting it off. She wasn't ready to see the house she had shared with her husband for more than thirty years, knowing he wouldn't be returning to it with her.
"Bill and Fleur can be moved now," Mrs. Weasley continued. "I had thought to bring them to the Burrow, but Bill thinks Fleur would prefer Shell Cottage. I thought I might stay with them for a few days, just to be sure they're settled."
"That's probably a good idea," Hermione said. Mrs. Weasley might be ready to visit her home but staying there was something else entirely. If she needed a bit more time to do so, Hermione couldn't fault her for that. Mrs. Weasley stopped her just before they reached the doors.
"Are you ready for tomorrow?" she asked. Lucius' trial started at nine o'clock the next morning.
"Ready for it to be over, yes," Hermione said. "Ready to hear what they'll decide, not really."
"Whatever happens, you know you always have a home with us."
"I know," Hermione replied with a smile, knowing it was unlikely she would take the woman up on her offer if Hermione and Ron were still at odds. "Thank you." Mrs. Weasley swept her into a hug before they turned to try and make their way through the crowds of press outside.
Lucius was led into the courtroom, properly dressed and coiffed after his week-long stay in the holding cells. He had been allowed a proper shower this morning, instead of the normal cleansing charms the guards usually cast. He had met with Edward before the trial began. The man had brought Lucius breakfast, for which he was grateful. The gruel the Ministry called breakfast was hardly palatable.
Lucius had been extremely happy with Draco's sentence. When his son had been brought back to their cell yesterday afternoon, Lucius had feared the worst. Knowing Draco would only suffer house arrest and probation was a load off Lucius' mind. He had even been allowed to see Miss Weasley for a time, something else that Lucius needed to thank Shacklebolt for. Lucius could only hope that the young woman would be allowed to visit during Draco's confinement as well. Or that they would be allowed to speak by Floo at the very least. While six months was nothing in the grand scheme of things, Lucius knew it would feel like an eternity to Draco.
Lucius sat down in the chair and waited while the chains moved into position. It was the not the first time he had been in this chair but he certainly intended for it to be the last. Looking over towards his solicitor's table, Lucius caught Hermione's eye. She smiled at him and he returned it, not even attempting to censor his reaction to seeing her.
She looked well, none of the pale, sickly pallor that Narcissa had seemed to wear through the first months of her pregnancies. It was extremely early still, however. He and Narcissa had never even known she was pregnant this soon.
Lucius shook himself from his thoughts as the Chief Warlock opened the trial and read the charges against him. They were many and Lucius could not deny that any of them were true. He could only hope that his change of allegiance, as well as the information he had provided the DMLE, would counter the charges enough to reduce his sentence.
"Miss Granger, if you please," Edward said. Lucius watched as Hermione rose and walked to the witness chair. Edward began with a few general questions about her arrival at the Manor, how she was treated and her agreement to work with them on destroying the Dark Lord.
"Were you surprised by this request?" Edward asked.
"Yes," Hermione replied. "I knew that both Draco and Lucius Malfoy were Death Eaters. I couldn't fathom that Lucius, especially, would be working against Voldemort."
"What changed your mind?"
"Draco told me about his mother," Hermione said. "That Voldemort had killed her. I understood their want for revenge."
"You initially agreed to work with Draco, is that correct?"
"Yes," Hermione said.
"And when did that change to working with Lucius?"
"Draco was injured," Hermione explained. "He was unconscious for several days and then confined to bed for a week after that. He was also being called by Voldemort on a regular basis. Lucius felt that he could devote more time to the project."
"Lucius wasn't being called?" Edward asked.
"No," Hermione said. "He was only called once the entire time I was there and that was shortly before we fought Voldemort at Nott Manor. Lucius told me that he hadn't been called at all since a few weeks after the Battle at Hogwarts."
"And you agreed to work with Lucius instead of Draco?" Edward asked.
"Yes, I did."
"I must say, Miss Granger, that is a bit surprising, given your history with Lucius Malfoy."
"We wanted the same outcome," she replied. "And if he was willing to work with me, given I was a Muggleborn, I was willing to work with him."
"And how was your working relationship?" Edward asked. Hermione smiled slightly.
"At first, it was reluctant cooperation," she said. "I read books that were brought to me and I would render my opinion. Then one day Lucius brought me to his library. That was when things began to change."
"Change how?"
"The first day that I was in the library we were waiting for Professor Snape. Lucius had told me that he was still alive and I had asked to meet with him. While we waited, I explored some of the library. Lucius had told me not to touch any of the books because some of them were cursed, especially towards someone of my blood."
"Because you were Muggleborn," Edward clarified.
"Yes," Hermione replied. Lucius' chest tightened when he remembered the book she had almost touched. She would likely have been driven mad if she had if she had even survived.
"I was walking down one of the rows and one of the books…called to me," Hermione continued. "I knew I shouldn't touch it but I wanted to. I was reaching for it when Lucius found me. He pulled me away and locked the book in a warded box. It was only then that the compulsion broke."
"Did Lucius tell you what might have happened had you touched the book?" Edward asked.
"He said that it wouldn't have been pleasant," Hermione replied. Lucius could hear the muttering in the crowd, the angry edge to it. He was not surprised.
"What happened after that?"
"He apologized," Hermione said. "And then he cleared the library of anything that might harm me," Hermione said. Lucius heard the murmurs of surprise this time and saw more than one member of the Wizengamot raise their eyebrows in astonishment.
"You mean he removed all the books that might curse you?" Edward asked, feigning surprise.
"Yes," Hermione said. "He went through the library row by row and would only let me collect books on my own once he had completely finished a row."
"What did he do with the books he removed?"
"Removed the curses if he could. If he couldn't, either he or Draco would go through them to see if they contained any relevant information."
"How long did this take?" Edward asked.
"Days," Hermione said. There was more murmuring from the spectators.
Edward then proceeded to ask Hermione about their research, how she had found out about the Weasleys and Lucius had let her see them, even though she could not speak to them at first, and that he had allowed her to send a letter to the Resistance to let them know she was all right.
As she continued talking, Lucius could see Edward leading her through their growing cooperation, the respect that began to form between the two of them and Hermione's understanding that Lucius Malfoy was far from the monster she had always considered him to be. It was a masterful job of building to their current relationship. They touched on the prophecy, although Draco had already testified about it. The exact wording was never given, just the summary that they had determined the two of them had to willingly work together to bring down the Dark Lord. While Edward did not ask for specifics, he was making it clear that their relationship had become intimate.
"Is it fair to say that the two of you are now in a romantic relationship?" Edward asked.
"Yes," Hermione replied. Lucius was proud to see that there was no blush, no hint of embarrassment on her face. She was not apologetic about the two of them at all.
The crowd, however, erupted. Lucius' back was to them, but he could see the reaction from the Wizengamot and assumed the crowd's reaction was likely the same. There were some that looked disgusted, some at him for sleeping with a Muggleborn and others at her for sleeping with the enemy. Many were shocked, not a surprise either. A few looked contemplative and there were still others that seemed pleased by the turn of events. Lucius would not deny that he was surprised by that.
Finally, the Chief Warlock had to call for order as the noise of the spectators grew even louder. Lucius glanced at Hermione and saw she was looking out at the crowd defiantly. He hid his smirk but felt another swell of pride. She would not be cowed by their opinions.
"I do not wish to invade your privacy, Miss Granger, however, could you explain how this came about?" Edward asked. "I think most of us are surprised that you would consider such a relationship with Lucius Malfoy. His views on blood supremacy are well-known."
"Yes, well, people are capable of change," she said. Edward chuckled.
"While that is true, most would say that Lucius Malfoy is not one of those people."
"I admit, I thought the same thing myself," Hermione said. A small smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "The relationship evolved gradually. The more we got to know one another, the more we spoke, the more it became apparent to me that Lucius was not the person I thought he was."
"How so?"
"He willingly entered into a relationship with me, for one," she replied with a smile. "He also did whatever he could to protect his son. When Voldemort began sending Draco out on missions, Lucius volunteered to take his place. Voldemort wouldn't allow it but Lucius kept trying all the same. He loved his wife very much and wanted to avenge her murder, even if it meant sacrificing himself. What he did to attempt to trap Voldemort, we all knew there wasn't a guarantee he would survive it. But he did it anyway to give us a better life. Draco and I specifically but everyone else as well." Edward had already presented the fact that Lucius had been the one to actually end the Dark Lord once and for all.
"Thank you, Miss Granger," Edward said. He turned to the Wizengamot and nodded. Lucius hid his frown. He did not like the fact that they were going to be allowed to question Hermione. He knew that there were some that would be less than friendly towards her given either her blood status or the fact that she was in a relationship with him. Still, she had agreed to this and there was not much he could do to stop it.
The first few questions were rather benign, most asking for more clarification on one point or another she had made. But then Hawthorne Bulstrode stood. He had never been a Death Eater but had still sympathized with the ideals. He had been hired to teach at Hogwarts this year and Lucius heard he had been made Head of Slytherin. He also held a grudge against Lucius because Lucius had rejected a marriage contract between his niece Millicent and Draco. The Bulstrodes might have been Sacred Twenty-eight but they were hurting for money and had only been looking for the Malfoys' galleons.
"Miss Granger, I think many of us on this body are aware of Lucius Malfoy's tendency to manipulate to obtain what he wants. How can you be sure this is not what he has done to you in order to attempt to pretend he has changed?"
"Are you saying that I am incapable of discerning true feelings from manipulation?" Hermione asked coolly. Lucius had to work to maintain his neutral expression instead of laughing aloud.
"Of course not," Bulstrode said. "But you are a young woman and Mr. Malfoy has many years of experience at playing the games he does."
"So, it is just my naivete then," Hermione replied. Lucius studied her expression and realized that Bulstrode was about to have his arse handed to him. Lucius was just not sure what, exactly, she planned to say.
"Do not feel badly, Miss Granger," Bulstrode said patronizingly. "Mr. Malfoy has hoodwinked many far older and more experienced than you." Hermione nodded and looked at her lap for a moment before looking back up to meet Bulstrode's gaze. The man's expression faltered for a moment at the look on her face but he recovered quickly.
"It might interest you to know then, sir, that besides everything I have already told you, there is one other reason I am positive that Lucius has changed."
"And what might that be?" Bulstrode asked with a smirk.
"I'm pregnant with his child." The entire chamber was silent for a split second before it exploded. Lucius turned toward Hermione. He was completely shocked that she had just announced it in open court but his anger was growing as well. What the hell was she thinking? If she had not had a target on her back before, she most certainly would now.
She met his eye for a moment before looking away, sitting serenely as the Chief Warlock attempted to wrestle control of the courtroom back from the carrying on of both the crowd and the Wizengamot.
Lucius was having a hard time keeping his emotions under control. He wanted to know if Edward had had anything to do with this. If the man had gone against Lucius' express wishes and had encouraged Hermione to do this, he would regret it.
The Chief Warlock had finally gotten the Wizengamot settled and was now warning the spectators that he would clear the courtroom if they did not remain quiet.
"Mr. Bulstrode did you have further questions?" the Chief Warlock asked. Bulstrode, who had sat back down, seemed to know when to cut his losses.
"No," he replied. The Chief Warlock looked around the room but no one else raised their hand. Lucius suspected that most of them were too stunned to even remember if they had questions.
"Miss Granger, you are excused."
"There is something else I would like to say, if I may," she said. Lucius stared at her but she did not look his way.
"Keep it brief, Miss Granger."
"Yes, sir," she replied. "I just wanted to add that Lucius is aware of my pregnancy and not only accepts the fact that he will have a half-blood child but welcomes it."
The room began to break out in murmurs again but the Chief Warlock quickly quelled it. After the bombshell that had just been dropped, no one wanted to miss the rest of the trial.
"Thank you, Miss Granger. You are excused." Hermione nodded and stepped down from the witness chair. She glanced at Lucius from the corner of her eye and he watched her as she retook her seat next to Shacklebolt.
As Edward had no further witnesses, court was adjourned for the afternoon. In the morning there would be questions for Lucius from the Wizengamot but for now, he intended to speak to Edward about what had just happened. He caught his solicitor's eye and Edward nodded, taking an Auror aside and requesting to speak to Lucius.
Lucius was released from the chair and led to one of the interview rooms in the corridor off the courtroom. He paced until Edward joined him.
"Did I not make myself clear?" Lucius demanded as the door was closed behind Edward.
"I had nothing to do with this, Lucius," Edward said.
"You had no idea she was going to announce this today," Lucius said skeptically.
"No. I was a bit curious about the questions she asked me, but I had no idea what she was planning."
"Explain," Lucius said, edge to his voice.
"She asked me about being questioned by the Wizengamot. I assumed she wanted to understand the procedure and how the process worked. I assured her that she wouldn't have to answer their questions if she did not want to. We got that concession for Miss Weasley when she testified. But Miss Granger insisted." Lucius' jaw clenched.
"She knew someone would question her about my true motives," he said.
"It appears so," Edward replied. He looked at Lucius for a moment. "You did say that it was her decision as to when the information would be shared."
"I did not mean this," Lucius snapped. He felt like he was at the end of his tether. Hermione likely did not even realize the danger she had put herself in. "I need to speak with her."
"I'm not sure if that's possible," Edward said. Lucius glared at him.
"This is what I am paying you for, Edward. Make it happen." Edward looked at him for a moment before he sighed.
"All right," he said. "I'll see what I can do." Edward walked to the door and knocked on it. It was opened by the Auror guard that was posted outside. Lucius began to pace again, too agitated to sit. Forget Azkaban, Hermione was going to be the death of him.
Hermione followed Kingsley towards the interview room where Lucius was waiting. She had expected this and so had lingered in the courtroom afterward. Kingsley had done the same. He looked down at her when they reached the door.
"Good luck," he said. "I'll have an Auror escort you back to Theo's when you've finished."
"I think I can manage to get to the Floo by myself," Hermione said.
"Get used to it, Hermione," Kingsley replied. "Your news will be in every paper in Britain by dinner time. You won't be going anywhere without a guard for some time."
"That's ridiculous," Hermione said, rolling her eyes.
"You do realize just how many people will be upset about this," Kingsley said. "On both sides."
"I can take care of myself."
"I don't doubt your abilities, but this is what's happening," Kingsley replied. Hermione's eyes narrowed.
"This was Lucius' idea, wasn't it?" she asked.
"He did request it, yes, but I would have assigned someone to you regardless." Before Hermione could argue further, Kingsley instructed the Auror to open the door and he ushered Hermione inside.
Lucius was furious, she could tell. Mr. Greengrass looked between the two of them and then cleared his throat.
"Is there anything else you need from me, Lucius?" he asked.
"No," Lucius replied. "Thank you, Edward."
"I will see you in the morning," Mr. Greengrass said. He picked up his briefcase, nodded to Hermione and left the room.
When the door closed again, Hermione and Lucius stared at one another for a few moments. Finally, she sighed.
"I know you're upset," she said.
"Upset?" he repeated. "Upset does not even begin to describe what I am feeling right now."
"Lucius-"
"Just what, exactly, were you thinking?" he said, his voice low and hard. The expression on his face left no doubt as to what he thought of her testimony. She crossed her arms over her chest and glared right back at him.
"I was trying to help," she said.
"By giving half of the wizarding population reason to attack you?" he snapped.
"Only half?" she replied with an eye roll. "From the way you and Kingsley are acting you would think that everyone single witch and wizard in Britain is out to try to kill me."
"You do not understand how much danger you have put yourself in!" Lucius shouted.
"What did you expect me to do?" she yelled back. "Sit and let you be carted off to Azkaban for who knows how long when there was something I could do to help?"
"Possibly sacrificing yourself and our child in the process!" he snapped.
"I'm not going to sacrifice anything," she said. "In case you haven't noticed, Lucius, I can take care of myself."
"Like you did when you ended up in my cellar?" She stared at him.
"You're throwing that in my face?" she said. "When it was your son who brought me there?"
"The fact remains that you were unable to take care of yourself, as you have so professed to be able to do," Lucius said, voice clipped. Hermione shook her head, taking a step back from him.
"I didn't realize you had so little faith in me," she said quietly.
"Hermione," he said, then sighed. "That is not what I meant."
"Isn't it?" she said.
"No," he replied. He moved towards her but she kept her arms tightly crossed and refused to look at him.
"You are a very formidable witch. There is no doubt about that," he said. He reached out towards her but she refused to take his hand. His arm fell limply to his side.
"This news, it is not going to sit well with many people," he continued. "Despite the fact that all the Death Eaters and many of the Dark Lord's supporters have been arrested, there are still others out there." He paused and when she looked up at him, his jaw was clenched, one hand fisted.
"I cannot protect you. I do not know when, or even if, I will be released. If anything happened," he trailed off, shaking his head. Hermione's face softened and she dropped her arms, moving towards him. He looked down at her, no longer angry. He was…afraid. She didn't think that she'd ever seen that look on his face. Not even when she woke up after having Voldemort in her head. He was worried yes, but not scared.
"Lucius," she said and he looked down at her. She put a hand on his chest and he immediately reached up and grasped it. "We're going to be fine. I'll be careful, I swear."
"I know you will. But take the guard, Hermione," he said. "Please."
"All right," she agreed. He seemed to relax at that and pulled her into his arms. She went willingly, wrapping her arms tightly around him. He tilted her head up and kissed her. When they parted, he looked down at her.
"I am going to ask Shacklebolt for an emergency Portkey," he said. "I want you to keep it with you at all times." Hermione wanted to argue, he was going a bit overboard as far as she was concerned, but at the look on his face she nodded. Just because she had a Portkey didn't mean that she was going to have to use it.
The door opened and the Auror stepped inside.
"Time's up, Mr. Malfoy," he said. Lucius nodded but before he could release her, Hermione pushed up on her toes and kissed him once more. This kiss was more chaste, Lucius did not allow it to escalate very far, to her disappointment.
"I love you," she whispered. He kissed her forehead and she felt him say the same words against her skin. She smiled as he released her.
"Proudfoot is waiting outside to escort you, Miss Granger."
"Thank you," Hermione replied and smiled at Lucius once more before she left the room. Proudfoot nodded to her and she followed him to the Floo, glancing over her shoulder as Lucius was led back to his cell.
Hermione's stomach was churning as she waited while the Wizengamot filed in and she knew it had nothing to do with her pregnancy. After they had questioned Lucius this morning, they had deliberated about his sentence for most of the afternoon. Hermione wasn't sure if that were a good or a bad thing.
She had barely slept last night and had had to resort to a few glamour spells this morning to hide the circles under her eyes. Most everyone had come with her today, the Weasleys were here, although Ron was still not speaking to her. Hermione currently sat between Mrs. Weasley and Ginny. Severus, Luna, and Theo sat behind her along with Katie and Oliver. Draco had been taken from the holding cells to Malfoy Manor this morning to begin his house arrest.
Kingsley was sitting in the Minister's seat this afternoon now that the proceedings were over and he no longer had to testify. He had stopped her in the corridor when she arrived and taken her into one of the interview rooms. Once there, he handed her a small medallion on a chain.
"Your Portkey," he had said.
"Where will it take me?" she asked as she put it around her neck.
"To the DMLE," he replied and she had nodded tucking the medallion under the neck of her robes. Now, she could feel it cool against her skin as she sat waiting for Lucius to be brought in.
Proudfoot was also sitting with her, although he was on the other side of Charlie. Hermione was glad he hadn't insisted on sitting right next to her. She was going to need moral support, she was sure. Luna put a hand on her shoulder and leaned forward.
"It will be all right, Hermione," Luna said. Hermione tried to smile at her friend but she was sure it came out as more of a grimace.
Lucius was finally brought in and led to the accused's chair. Hermione hated watching the chains wrap about his arms and legs, binding him. Still, he sat tall, neutral expression on his face, looking for all the world as if he were not about to find out his fate for the next however many years. She honestly didn't know how he did it. She would be a nervous wreck sitting there. She was a nervous wreck, sitting here.
Ginny gripped her hand and Hermione squeezed back gratefully. Mrs. Weasley took her other hand and gave it a pat.
"Lucius Malfoy, you have been found guilty of bearing the Dark Mark and following the Dark Lord Voldemort." The rest of Lucius' charges were read and he was found guilty of each one. Hermione's heart sank further and her stomach knotted tighter.
"In lieu of your cooperation, as well as your changing allegiance, your sentence is as follows. Eighteen months imprisonment in Azkaban-"
Hermione made some kind of noise as the blood began to pound in her ears. Eighteen months? Their baby would be a year old before he was released. That couldn't be right, Luna had said, Hermione shook her head. It didn't matter what Luna had said. She wasn't on the Wizengamot and didn't actually know what was going to happen.
The Chief Warlock was still talking and Hermione forced herself to listen.
"- time served." Time served? What did that mean? They were going to include the time he had spent in the holding cell? That didn't really matter in the grand scheme of his sentence, given it was only a little over a week.
"After your imprisonment is complete you will be on probation for a period of five years. You will present your wand for bi-weekly checks for Dark magic during this time. Your home will be inspected monthly for any Dark artefacts. Should you violate any of these terms, you will be remanded back to Azkaban. Do you understand this sentence as it has been presented to you?"
"Yes," Lucius said. He still looked just as calm and collected as he had when he was brought in. Hermione wanted to scream.
"You will be given a few minutes with your solicitor to settle any business and then you will be taken to Azkaban." The Chief Warlock ended the session as Aurors approached Lucius to lead him away.
"Hermione?" Ginny questioned. Hermione looked over at her. "It's not as bad as it could have been. The time will go quickly."
"I thought he would be here," Hermione said, her hand moving to her middle. Ginny frowned.
"Be here for what?" Hermione looked at her in confusion.
"For the birth, of course."
"I thought you were only a couple of weeks along," Ginny said, looking just as confused.
"I am," Hermione said.
"Then why wouldn't he be there for the birth?" Hermione just stared at Ginny. What on earth was she talking about? She knew how long pregnancy lasted.
"Hermione, how long do you think Lucius is going to be in prison?" Mrs. Weasley asked. Hermione didn't understand why everyone was looking at her strangely.
"He was sentenced to eighteen months," Hermione said.
"He was, dear, but he was also in Azkaban for a year already, after the Department of Mysteries," Mrs. Weasley said. "They are applying that to his current sentence." Hermione stared at her, not wanting to hope.
"So, six months?" Hermione said.
"Yes, dear," Mrs. Weasley said with a smile.
"Oh." Of course, she would have rather no prison time but six months was much better than eighteen. And he would be here for the birth then. Hermione felt her stomach unknot a bit. She turned to Luna who gave Hermione one of her ethereal smiles. Hermione leaned over the bench and hugged her.
"In time," Luna said and Hermione nodded, tears in her eyes.
"Miss Granger," Proudfoot said as he walked up next to her.
"Yes?"
"If you're ready, we should leave now."
"All right," Hermione replied.
"We're all going back to Theo's for a bit, so we'll see you there," Ginny said. The Weasleys were finally getting ready to return to the Burrow. Bill and Fleur would stay with Poppy for a few more days and then Bill had requested they return to Shell Cottage. Poppy was planning on continuing to supervise their recovery. Bill thought it would be good for Fleur to be home and their Mind Healer had agreed to visit them there until they were both up to coming to St. Mungo's for their appointments.
Hermione nodded and began following Proudfoot down the steps. She still thought this was a bit ridiculous. What could possibly happen to her surrounded by the Weasleys, Katie and Oliver and Theo and Luna? Still, she did what Lucius had asked. He was going to be in prison for six months. The least she could do was acquiesce to this one request.
When they reached the floor of the courtroom instead of going through the main doors, Proudfoot turned to the left and headed for the side door where the prisoners were brought in. Likely to escape the press, Hermione guessed. She knew there was an entrance to the DMLE from this corridor. Perhaps that was where he was taking her.
When they stopped in front of one of the interview rooms, Hermione looked up at Proudfoot in confusion.
"Ten minutes, Miss Granger," he said and Hermione's heart leapt to her throat. They were going to let her see Lucius? She opened the door and stepped into the room. He had his back to her and she stared at him for a moment.
"Lucius," she said and he spun around, surprise on his face. And then she was running towards him, throwing herself into his arms.
She looked up at him to say something but he kissed her instead. She clung to him, trying to drink him in, memorize every single thing she could before she wouldn't see him for six months. The way he felt pressed against her, the way his lips moved over hers, the feel of his hair in her hands.
When they finally had to part to breathe, she rested her cheek against his chest and he held her tightly to him.
"How long?" he asked.
"Only ten minutes," she said.
"I am sorry, Hermione," he said.
"It's only six months," she said. "I stopped listening after they said eighteen and thought you would miss, well, so much. But now, you'll be here for the birth." He brought a hand down to her stomach and let it rest there.
"I will still miss much," he said.
"The worst parts," she said with a smile. "I've heard morning sickness is really like all day sickness. You won't have to see me lose my breakfast." He attempted a smile but it fell flat. They both knew he would rather watch her sick up than spend six months in Azkaban.
"The Dementors are gone," she said softly. "And Kingsley has been improving the building and the conditions." Lucius nodded.
"Yes, I expect it will be better than my last visit there." She wrapped her arms more tightly around him. She knew that he was scared but he would never admit it.
"I'll write all the time," she said.
"I do not believe prisoners are allowed mail privileges."
"Well, then I'll just have to talk to Kingsley about changing that," she said. "And if I can't send letters, I'll keep a journal so you can read it once you're home. And you can watch memories in your Pensieve."
"Where will you live?" he asked, tucking a curl behind her ear.
"I don't know," she said. "The Weasleys have offered to let me stay at the Burrow and Theo said I can stay there as long as I like. Or maybe I'll get a flat."
"You can stay at the Manor," he said.
"Are you sure that Draco would appreciate that?" She and Draco tolerated one another but it wasn't like they were friends, let alone close enough to live together.
"I suspect that Draco might like a bit of company," Lucius said.
"Yes, but from me?" Hermione asked Lucius chuckled.
"I do hope that the two of you might become friends at the least," he said, becoming more serious. Hermione stared up at him and her breath caught in her throat at the look in his eyes.
"Why is that?" she managed.
"Because when I return from Azkaban, I do not intend to let you go," he said. They continued to stare at one another, Hermione unable to speak.
"If you will have me, of course," Lucius said.
"Of course, I will," she said and he kissed her again. A throat clearing behind them forced them to separate.
"Miss Granger," Proudfoot said.
"Just one minute," she said. Proudfoot gave a nod and stepped back into the corridor. Hermione looked back at Lucius.
"I love you," she said.
"And I you," he replied. "Take care of yourself and please be careful."
"I will," she promised, then kissed him one last time. When they parted, she felt the tears begin to run down her cheeks. He wiped a few away with his thumbs, kissed her forehead and then released her. Hermione gave him a watery smile and then turned to the door, pulling in a deep breath before stepping into the corridor. Six months. She could do anything for six months.