Chapter 4
Hermione sat in Christina's living room that was part of the addition Grandpa Henry had been working on, reading over her texts for school that the Denhams bought for her. The summer had been surprisingly quiet. She had gone to visit Harry a couple of times and received letters from the Weasleys, who, as of last week, were planning attendance to the Quidditch World Cup that England was hosting this year. Ron had invited Hermione and Harry to join them, but Hermione declined. Her grandfather had gotten her a ticket already, but she did promise to stop by the campsite when they arrived.
Hermione had done her best to split her time evenly with the Stantons and the Denhams, but she loved spending most of her time with Christina. Christina saved up her vacation days and took Hermione to the beach for a week. However, beyond that one week, Christina had to worked six-day work weeks. The Stantons had taken the first half of August to take Jake to get settled at his university in France. The Denhams did make a point to be present at least weekly and they ate meals and sat down and read together quite often.
When Christina was free from the café, she and Hermione had several girl's days at the spa, library and the museum. In the evenings, they watched movies and ate junk food. It was during one of those evenings that Christina asked about the Quidditch Cup.
"Are you excited about the Cup Hermione?" Christina asked from the couch.
Hermione giggled; the older woman knew of her feelings of the flying sport. "Am I excited about cheering for people I have never met playing a sport I don't fully understand and listen to the boys tell me that I need to do more then read? Oh yes, most definitely!" She remarked sarcastically, then more seriously she added, "No it will be a great international experience, I really am excited."
"That's my girl. So, tell me what teams are supposed to play?"
"Grandfather thinks it will be Ireland for sure, they've been undefeated all season, I guess. But we won't know until maybe a week before." Hermione shrugged. "all I know is England is out of the running, Harry complained in his last letter. He saw the standings when he arrived at the Weasleys'."
And with that, conversations turned from the flying sport to Hermione's excitement to spend time with the Denhams, specifically Norman and his stories of Annabeth as she was growing up.
⁎⁎⁎
The date of the Cup was upon them before they could even think about it happening. Hermione apparated with her grandfather to the campsite and after they set their tent, they went off in search of the Weasleys. Everyone seemed in good spirits; Molly was cooking, Ron and Harry were playing a game of chess, Fred and George were in a conversation with Ginny. Norman joined Arthur in a deep conversation with Amos Diggory, she had seen him at the station picking up his son Cedric Diggory who was an older Sixth year, he had just turned 17. When Fred spotted her, he came over and pulled her into a bear hug. He excitedly told her that he and George bet Ludo Bagman about the outcome of the game.
"Fred you didn't"
"It's a solid bet."
"It's risky."
"I like risky, it keeps life interesting," he said flirtatiously.
As the horn sounded to alert them that the game would begin soon, the giant group walked to the stadium where they met up with the Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge and, to everyone's dismay, the Malfoys. Hermione's grandparents were deep in conversation with the Minister when Draco started in on his insults.
"So, I see that Lord and Lady Denham used you for their charity case this year, Mudblood."
"So, I see that your parents still haven't pulled that silver spoon out of your mouth, Draco," Harry spat.
"Harry, stop," Hermione pleaded, stealing a glance at her grandparents to make sure they hadn't drawn attention to themselves.
"Just keep in mind, Mudblood, no association with purity raises your status. You are still nothing, and you will always be below us. You should practice your curtsy; when I take title, I'll expect it from everyone beneath me and for you to admit that I am better than you in every way."
"Hermione, come dear," Marlena called.
"Coming, grandmother!" Hermione called back. "See you at school, Malfoy." With one final look of pure hatred, she strode off with her shoulders squared and her chin held high. She grabbed her grandfather's offered arm and walked with the group to their seats without a glance at the gawking boy behind them.
Hermione laughed as she watched the boys celebrate Ireland's win over Bulgaria. Fred and George were dancing around putting a smile on everyone's face. Ron was gushing over Victor Krum's phenomenal catch as Molly fixed them all dinner.
Hermione was so engrossed in the fun behavior around her that she never noticed Norman slowly approach her, until he said, "Something on your mind, Hermione?"
Hermione hesitated for a moment, "I told Draco Malfoy that you are my grandparents. I didn't mean to, but he just kept pushing our buttons."
"And how do you feel about that?"
"Stupid mostly, but I just don't want to be treated any differently at school. Grandmother said that I will inherit mother's title when I am older, but I just want to get through my education without a fuss. With Malfoy's big mouth, that is not likely to happen now."
"I doubt young Malfoy will say anything. If he believes you, he will follow his upbringing and respect a lady of standing. And if he doesn't, he'll likely tease you, but you are your mother's child and I'm sure you will retort with all the class and dignity I know you possess."
"Thank you, Grandfather."
"Speaking of you title, there is something I wished to discuss with you. You are at the age when…" Norman was cut off by screams coming from outside the tent.
"What's going on?" Hermione asked looking toward the tent entrance.
"I'm not sure," Norman replied
The happiness of the tent continued until Norman returned and told them that they had to leave.
"Death eaters are here, you all need to leave," he directed toward the children. As Hermione moved to follow his orders, he grabbed her wrist, "Hermione, if they come after you, any of you, you are to use your magic, do you understand?" His tone was firm and unwavering.
"Yes, Grandfather."
The children followed Marlena and Molly as best they could as the chaos grew. They were almost at the edge of the woods when an explosion occurred and the group got separated. The golden trio went several paces into the forest on their own when they bumped into Malfoy.
"Watch it, Potter."
"Shouldn't you be out there, Draco? I'm sure your father is, you should go join in on the fun," Ron said, his voice dripping with disgust.
"Cute Weasel, But I quite enjoy school and do not wish to be expelled. Draco's eye's fell on Hermione, "Lady Hermione," his voice spat the title, "you should have trusted someone more capable of protecting you."
"I don't need anyone to protect me, thank you very much."
Draco sneered at her comment and walked away. When he was out of sight, they ducked behind a large tree root.
"My wand is gone," Harry whispered.
"What?!" Hermione hissed.
"It's gone, it was right here," Harry felt all of his pockets, "I dropped it… its go…."
"Morsemordre" came from behind them. They didn't see anyone, but a grisly green light glared from the sky. They looked up and saw a skull and a snake projecting above them and the burning field of fire and spells. As sudden as it appeared, the screaming and chaos at the campsite ceased.
Suddenly, ministry officials, along with Arthur and Norman appeared with their wands raised.
"Hermione!" Norman ran to her, "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine, we were just hiding here, we got separated from the others."
"Which one of you conjured it?" Barty Crouch demanded at wand point.
"Crouch, don't be dense, their just kids," Norman said.
"Here's your wand, Harry Potter," Winky spoke.
Before Harry could grab it, Crouch looked at Winky, "You despicable creature! You are dismissed!" He yelled as he handed the poor creature his necktie.
Hermione was about to say something but one look from Norman stole all the words from her throat. The group walked away as Winky pleaded for forgiveness. Upon arriving and the undisturbed tent, the kids went off to bed, but sleep did not come easily. The next morning, the Denhams escorted the Weasley's and Harry back to the burrow before returning to the manor, where Christina was waiting for them. Marlena got Hermione settled before she called for tea. Almost as quickly as they sat, Christina went on a rant about what she read in the paper.
"Are those sociopaths dangerous?" Christina asked.
Norman scoffed, "Depends on what side you're on."
"That's not funny, Grandfather," Hermione said staring into her tea.
Norman sobered and explained to Christina what the death eaters stand for. "Yes, they are dangerous, if you oppose their ideals. Marlena and I have remained as neutral as possible." He looked at Marlena with an unreadable expression before he looked at Hermione, "Which I suppose leads me to what we were talking about before the chaos started. Hermione, your grandmother and I would like to host a party announcing your parentage and your title that you will take over when you turn sixteen. By aligning with us, you will no longer be considered a muggleborn…"
"Maybe not a muggleborn, but still tainted," Hermione interrupted.
"At most you could be considered a blood traitor. Although we are friends with Dumbledore, we do not openly disagree with the death eaters. You will be safe"
"That's the coward's way! Whether I'm your granddaughter or not, I will always be a target!" Hermione shouted.
"Hermione!" Christina and Marlena exclaimed.
"Well it true! I will always be a target no matter what my blood status! I am friends with Harry and that is not going to change!"
"Hermione," Christina said calmly, as she set her own tea aside and grabbed Hermione's hand. "You are right, your alignment with Harry is dangerous, as the past years have taught us; but maybe your grandparents have a point. By stating your stance with your title, it could protect you if it came down to it. I'm not saying that you must go through with it, but I will say one thing. You taking your rightful place amongst the wizarding nobility, it was one of your mother's biggest dreams."
Hermione mulled over the short words from her godmother before she spoke, "I'll think about it."
"That's all we ask," Norman said with something resembling a relieved smile.
The next morning, Hermione's school list arrived. Marlena and Christina took her to Diagon alley to get her supplies and books. As Marlena read down the list, she paused.
"They need dress robes, something big must be happening at the school this year."
"Dress robes?" Hermione and Christina asked.
"Their almost like fancy dresses in the muggle world, but they do usually have matching covers, as is tradition."
"Like Muggle formals?" Christina asked excitedly. At Marlena's confused look, Christina continued, "During the final years of school, the most senior students can attend school sponsored functions that are evening formal. Boys usually ask the girls as dates and they do dinner, have matching flowers, and it runs really late."
"Yes, I believe they are quite similar."
With that, they went off to Madam Malkin's dress shop where they pushed Hermione into the dressing room with handfuls of dresses from the racks. Hermione tried on at least 20 dresses.
On the tenth dress, Hermione spoke, "We have tried on almost every style, nothing is jumping out at me. I mean their beautiful dresses, but none of them are for me."
Marlena looked at her in mild exasperation, "Then what style did you have in mind?"
"A brown paper bag?" Hermione said half-jokingly.
Christina stood, "Hermione, what's going on? You raided your mother and my closets for years trying on our dresses. You loved those, what's so different about picking out your own?"
"I just… I don't know, I just don't feel like these are me. I'm not pretty like Lavender, or you or mum. I'm plain. I can't wear a dress like other girls would. It's like painting a broken vase; you can paint over the crack and glue with matching paint and make it pretty again, but the ugly crack is still there."
"What makes you think that you are not beautiful, Hermione?"
"My buck teeth, my clear lack of curves, my hair, my freckles."
Marlena sighed, "Oh dear, there are moments that I have to remind myself that you and your mother are different people. She had insecurities too, Hermione. She just needed something to flatter her body, that made her feel beautiful."
"But none of these dresses are it."
"Then we will look another time at another store."
Hermione got dressed and followed her grandmother and godmother out of the Alley. Her grandmother could search high and low, but there would be no dress that would make her feel beautiful.
At school on September first, the students were alight with excitement. Professor Dumbledore had announced at dinner, that Hogwarts was to host the Triwizard Tournament. Although the school complained about a no-quidditch year, the excitement outweighed the heated comments. When Dumbledore managed to quiet the hall, he introduced Alastor Moody, the new Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor, and the two Ministry officials that would be overseeing the tournament. The meal was allowed to continue over the roar of excited conversations. Hermione talked with the twins about tournaments of the past as Harry and Ron laughed with Neville and Dean. Eventually, they hall was dismissed, and the students went to bed.
As Hermione laid in bed, she wondered what the year would hold. Would it be remotely quiet? Would she and the boys get to lay low this year being underage and experience a normal year? Hermione was unsure, but something in her gut told her that this is the year that everything would change.
The first day of class only confirmed her suspicions. While classes started normally, dinner certainly took a turn. Hermione feigned interest as the boys complained about their Divination homework assignment due to Ron's smart comment about Lavender and Uranus.
"It's a stupid class really." Ron stat3ed.
"You could have dropped it, Ronald," Hermione sighed.
"Sounds like Divination isn't really your cup of tea, Weasley. Not that it would have done you any favors; you could have predicted the embarrassment that your despicable family now has due to this article about your father," Draco said gaining the attention of the Great Hall.
"What are you talking about, Malfoy?"
"Arnold Weasley and Amos Diggory responded to a call by ex-auror Mad Eye Moody, who has been delusional since his retirement." Draco read aloud. "Your father wasn't even worthy enough for the paper to get his name right; now what does that say about you?"
Hermione, who abandoned her book when Malfoy spoke, quickly grabbed Ron's arm to hold him back. The force of his move nearly pulled them both off the bench. She heard Malfoy continue to taunt with comments about Missus Weasley, but she couldn't catch it all due to Ron's grunting and groaning trying to get out of her grasp. Ron suddenly stopped fighting her, and when she looked up, she saw Harry in Malfoy's face.
"-that expression your mother's got, like she's got dung under he knows? Does she always look like that, or was it because you were with her?" Harry said.
Malfoy's face turned read. "Don't you dare insult my mother!"
Harry smirked and turned to walk out of the hall. Hermione released Ron so he could follow Harry. Hermione stopped to grab her books before she left. When she turned to follow them, she saw Draco with his wand to turned back. "Harry!" she called. Harry stopped in his tracks but the spell never came. She chanced a glance at the young blonde, but where he stood was now a white ferret.
"Its improper form to curse someone when their back is turned boy. I would have thought that your father would have taught you manners." Mood said before he raised his wand and forced Malfoy-ferret to bounce around the hall. Many students were laughing at the scene. Hermione smiled and let out a few laughs with her classmates. When McGonagall entered and her eyes drew to the scene, Hermione sobered quickly. McGonagall stormed toward the Defense professor.
"Professor Moody, what… what are you doing?"
"Teaching."
"Is that… Is that a student?"
"Technically it's a ferret."
Hermione watched as her head of house pulled out her wand and returned Malfoy to his human form.
As soon as Malfoy regained his balance and his voice, he turned to the professors, "Just wait until my father hears about this!"
Moody advanced on him and was scolding him about his bad form when McGonagall intervened. "Alastor! You know how I feel about the abuse of transfiguration!"
"You might have mentioned it."
"Oh, I know I have. Be sure it doesn't happen again." She turned to the students, "Back to your meals, now!" Moody followed her back to the staff table like a scolded puppy dog.
Hermione quickly left with the boys up to Gryffindor tower.
She couldn't put her finger on it, but there was something off about the ex-auror. The first day of his class, he performed unforgiviables, and he cackled like a mad hatter as he did it. And then for the rest of his class, he was subdued, Although Dumbledore may have said something, she got the vibe from him that he was a rebel-heart like the boys: rules were meant to be broken. For someone who was rumored to be paranoid, he certainly didn't teach like he was. Maybe Professor McGonagall would have some insight on her observations.
The end of October arrived far too quickly for Hermione's liking. Today, Hogwarts' guests would arrive, but with her OWLs coming up next year, she was too stressed out to worry about it. She wrote Christina about her exam worries, but Christina, in all of her motherly guidance, wrote Hermione and told her to relax, that she would speak to the Denhams about the exams to see what they could get her to help. While it was slightly easier to think that her grandparents would help her prepare, it only eased her panic; after all, it was wasted time that she could be using to prepare!
The rate that classes passed that day didn't help Hermione's stress levels; teachers assigned essays and the boys complained and vowed to do their work (which naturally meant that they would finish it by the class before it was due, and she'd have to help them.) At dinner after Herbology, Hermione watched Durmstrang and Beauxbaton students enter the hall with the rest of the students and staff. Unfortunately for her and Ginny, they had to listen to Ron gush over the presence of Victor Krum, a seventh year from Durmstrang. Why didn't she change seats with Lavender?
"Ron, Stop! He's nothing more than a normal student now, not an international celebrity."
"Coming from someone who doesn't know fame!" Ron retorted.
Hermione, Fred, George, and Ginny all glanced at Harry. Hermione replied, "You do remember who your best friend is right?"
"That's different; Harry is just Harry." Ron replied never looking away from Krum.
"I wish that was the case with everyone," Hermione heard Harry mutter under his breath.
The group shook their heads at Ron as they finished the meal. Dumbledore stood and announced how the students can enter the tournament and that the champions would be picked the next evening. He established that no student under the age of seventeen would be allowed to enter due to maturity of magic; of course, this sent a ripple of upset throughout the hall. Dumbledore did not waver; after a few moments, he silenced everyone and sent the Hogwarts students to bed.
Classes through Halloween had been suspended to allow students to observe and support who was putting their name in the cup, or to do so themselves. It was right before lunch when Fred and George put their plan into action; Hermione had warned them several times about their plan, but they insisted on going through with it. As she had promised, the twins were rejected by the magical age line that Dumbledore himself drew. Hermione and the rest of the school, professors, and ministry representatives got a good laugh out of the twin grey beards that Fred and George now had on their young faces. Professor Dumbledore wouldn't allow them to remove the beards until after dinner.
Following dinner on November second, the whole school was crammed into the Great Hall to witness the drawing of the champions. Hermione politely clapped when Fleur Delacour from Beauxbaton and Victor Krum from Durmstrang were chosen as their school champions. However, she joined in the roaring noise when Cedric Diggory had been chosen as the Hogwarts champion. As Dumbledore announced that it was done, that the champions had been chosen and would be briefed on the official rules, the goblet glowed once more. Dumbledore grabbed the ejected paper and his brow furrowed.
"Harry Potter!" Dumbledore bellowed.
Harry slunk into Hermione's side, and she didn't blame him; no one had ever seen the usually happy headmaster so angry. After a moment, Hermione pushed Harry toward the headmaster.
"Go on Harry," She harshly whispered.
She watched him disappear through the staff door. As soon as the door closed behind him, Professor Dumbledore dismissed the remaining students. Hermione hesitated, but followed like she should. In the common room, Ron and Seamus started a ruckus.
"How could he put his name in the cup and not tell us?" Ron said loudly.
"He is so selfish," Seamus chimed.
"Ron don't be so irrational! You saw yourself that Fred and George couldn't even get pass the age line with an AGING potions – how could Harry manage? Why would he put his name in a tournament that could KILL him?"
"For glory, to stay in the spotlight and get special treatment, what else?" Seamus said.
"He doesn't want glory! He would be just fine with nobody noticing who he is or what he is doing. And how to you propose that he got his name in that damn goblet?"
"There was a sympathetic older student, there are several I'm sure that would do the Golden Boys' bidding!"
"Ron you are supposed to be his friend! The only one acting like it is Hermione," Ginny said.
But Ron didn't acknowledge her comment, "The boy can successfully produce a Patronus charm! I'm sure he could have figured out how to get passed Dumbledore's charm."
"Yes Ron, he can produce a NEWT level spell Ron, half the school knows that! So, enlighten us, why would someone put in the name of someone who could take him or her out of the running to participate in the competition!" Hermione said hotly. She knew she should have stopped but she was heated and on a roll. "And on top of that, does no one recall that there are You-Know-Who supporters who would love to see Harry dead?"
The portrait opened and Harry walked in. The room was quiet. Hermione watched Harry pause before briskly walking to his room. After the door shut behind him, the students went their separate ways: some followed his example and went to bed, others sat down at the tables to study, others dispersed to talk amongst a smaller group. Hermione sighed and went up to her room, there was no way that she would be able to calm down any other way. This was going to be a long tournament.
Hermione and several Gryffindor's woke early, those students backed Hermione's perspective on Harry putting his name in the tournament and promised to openly support him. However, the support did not spread to the rest of the school. A good majority believed that Harry had cheated his way into the tournament. Thankfully, Harry didn't fight back, he took Hermione's advice and did his best to ignore the hateful glares he received. The peak for everyone was during potions class; Harry and Draco drew wands, but instead of cursing each other, Goyle and Hermione were the receivers. Snape's comment had hurt her feelings, but she refused to show emotions in front of the dungeon bat. It was in the hospital wing that she allowed herself to tear up. She had always been self-conscious about her bland looks and her teeth. How could he be so cold?
"Alright Miss Granger let's get you all fixed up. I just need you to tell me when your teeth get back to their normal size." Madam Pomfrey had said handing her a transfigured mirror.
Hermione held it up and watched her beaver teeth shrink. She noticed her normal looks return but waited until they lined up closer to her outer incisors and she felt that they were normal.
"Thank you Madam Pomfrey."
"Think nothing of it dear; but don't take this personally, I hope I don't see you for the rest of term." Madam Pomfrey said with a smile.
"None taken. Have a good day!"
Hermione hopped off the bed and left the hospital wing with a smile on her face. In her giddy state, she was not paying attention and bumped into someone.
Hermione looked up, "Oh goodness, I am so sorry Professor McGonagall."
Minerva paused, having a sense of déjà vu. "It's alright dear, I was just coming to see if you were alright. Mister Longbottom told me what happened in potions."
"Oh yes Professor. Madam Pomfrey put me to rights in a jiffy."
"Well, that's good to hear. Would you mind joining me for lunch?"
Hermione hesitated, "Of course, Professor." Hermione followed her professor to her office, silently going over what she could have done wrong.
Upon entry, McGonagall looked at Hermione and chuckled, "Relax, Hermione, you are not in trouble. Have a seat." After they were both seated, McGonagall continued, "Your grandmother asked me to give this to you when I saw her for tea this weekend." McGonagall held out a teal shopping bag to her.
"What is it?"
"Of that I cannot be certain, but Marlena said that after a challenging time in Diagon Alley, she thinks she found the perfect one." Minerva gave a smile that said she knew exactly what was going on.
Hermione gently grabbed the bag and grabbed the small attached letter:
Hermione, I was going through some of your mother's old photos and found one of her in an old dress that was one of her favorites. I took it to Madam Malkin's and had her recreate the dress with some modern touches. I also enclosed money for you to go to Hogsmeade with to pick out accessories. Minerva is more than capable of doing any transfigurations you may need. All our love, Your Grandmother. PS Christina said that the color always looked good on you.
Hermione smiled, "Is it alright if I try this on?"
"Of course, dear, the room is down to the left. I'll call for food while you change."
Hermione went to the designated room with a bit of excitement. She pulled the delicate looking garment out of the bag an suppressed a gasp. The dress was beautiful; it was a beautiful light blue with layers of flowing fabric. It was femine looking, and she liked it. It was a size or two too large, but she didn't doubt this was the dress she wanted. She opened the door and walked out to the sitting room.
"How does it look Professor?" Hermione asked to grab the older woman's attention.
McGonagall turned around and her eyes went wide. "Well, let's tighten it up a bit and have a better look." After a few flicks of the professor's wand, Hermione felt the gown hug her body. "There you go dear, have another look."
Hermione looked in the mirror and found herself gawking at her reflection. The gown was even more perfect then she thought. The sweetheart neckline was modest without making her look like a child. The sleeves were beaded strands that swooped to her mid bicep. At her waste was a dark blue ribbon that tied in the back. The skirt was fantastic; the top matched the bodice but as it moved toward the base of the skirt it became darker until it matched the ribbon around her waist. Hermione noticed that her hair looked redder with the dress on. She felt beautiful even without makeup and jewelry.
"Wow."
"You look so much like your mother."
Hermione looked at her professor fighting a sudden wave of tears, "Really?" at McGonagall's nod, she smiled and let out a little laugh. "What do I do with my hair?"
McGonagall lightly chuckled, "Well, your mother's hair wasn't as curly as yours, I would use some sleekeazy potion and pull it up into a twist. You should leave some curls out to shape your face." McGonagall demonstrated as she spoke.
When the professor magically pined her hair, Hermione spoke again, "Professor, I understand if you can't, but do you think you could come with me to Hogsmeade to pick out accessories?"
"I can see what I can do, the Headmaster has me on school duty this weekend with all of the younger students."
"Thank you, Professor."
After lunch, Hermione joined Harry and Neville in Charms where Harry filled her in on his interview with Rita Skeeter.
"Maybe it won't be so bad." Neville suggested.
"Isn't she the woman who got Mister Weasley's name wrong?" Hermione asked.
"One in the same." Harry groaned.
"Whatever happens, do not let her article get to you," Hermione attempted to reassure him.
"Easier said than done."
Saturday rolled around, and Hermione was excited to get out of the castle for a couple of hours. She met Harry, Ginny, and Neville in the great hall for breakfast where they chatted about their plans for the day. The owl post entered the great hall and an owl came toward Hermione. She took the letter it delivered, before she gave it some toast. She opened the note and silently read it to herself.
Dear Miss Granger, I am terribly sorry, but I won't be able to join you in town today. I sadly must oversee a detention. However, I did forward your request to a friend of mine. She has excellent taste and I think she is just the person to help. She will meet you outside of Three Broomsticks at 9:30 Sharp. Professor McGonagall.
Hermione was a bit nervous to meet just some stranger in town, but Ginny said that she would be with her just in case. At nine the group headed to the carriages that would take them to the outskirts of Hogsmeade. Neville and harry met up with Dean and went to the quidditch shop. Hermione and Ginny headed to Three Broomsticks to meet with McGonagall's friend. At nine twenty-five. Hermione was tapped on the shoulder. When she turned around, she saw Christina.
"Christina, what are you doing here?" She asked as she hugged her godmother.
"Professor McGonagall wrote me and asked if I was free to come help you pick out your jewelry to match your dress. She charmed these glasses so that I can see the town protected from Muggle eyes."
"You cannot begin to imagine how happy I am that you're here. I was so nervous to meet a stranger to do this."
"Did you honestly think that Professor McGonagall would allow you to meet some random person?"
"Well Grandmother and Grandfather are in Berlin this week for another educational meeting. And I didn't think it would be you because you're a muggle…" Hermione drifted off a bit embarrassed at her initial conclusion.
"Well, be that as it may, we have some shopping to do!" Christina allowed the girls to take her around town through the various stores to find shoes, jewelry and hair accessories. Three hours later, they were all tired and ready for a good meal. At Three Broomsticks, they ate and discussed more recent events with Christina.
"What are you going to do with Granny and Poppa for their anniversary?"
"I was thinking of doing dinner and a show. You know how much they enjoy those."
"That'll be great!"
They launched into other random topics from Christina's work to Jake's school. By the time two o'clock rolled around, Hermione said goodbye to Christina who disappeared with a portkey that would take her to the alley behind her work. Hermione and Ginny went to meet the boys at Zonko's. When everyone was with them, they trekked their way to the Castle.
A few days later, Harry met Hermione in the library. Despite the isolation of her table, he insisted that they move closer to the Restricted Section.
"Dragons?" Hermione asked after Harry told her about his nightly trek with Hagrid.
"That's what Hagrid said. I have no idea how I am going to beat a dragon."
"You're allowed a wand Harry, but it takes several simultaneous stunners to take down a dragon." A pause, "Could you possibly summon your broom?"
"Is there a spell for that?"
"Oh Harry, would it kill you to open a book?" Hermione sighed, "Of course there is. Let me get the spell for you and we can practice during study hours."
And that is exactly what happened. Hermione coached Harry on the Accio spell up until the morning of the task. Despite his successful castings of the charm, she was still nervous. She didn't know if he would be powerful enough to summon the broom from the castle.
When the tournament's first task came upon them, she calmed a nervous Harry before she took her seat with the rest of the Gryffindor students to cheer on the champions. Hermione watched as Cedric transfigured a rock into a dog to distract the dragon while he grabbed the egg. He was almost successful until he tripped over the rough terrain. The noise caught the dragon's attention and earned him a burn on his arm. Ron grabbed her hand and she grabbed Fred's. This task could very well kill the boy-who-lived.
Fleur enchanted the dragon to sleep, which gave her full access to the egg. However, the dragon snorted as the French girl was retreating and caught her skirt on fire. Hermione was mildly impressed with Krum's use of the Conjunctivitis curse. As he held his egg in victory, their eyes met and although she applauded with everyone, she blushed and averted her gaze.
Finally, it was Harry's turn. Hermione watched in horror as Harry jumped behind rock after rock to avoid the angry fire the Hungarian Horntail threw at him. What was he doing? When he was in front of her, she yelled, "Your wand, Harry!"
She breathed a sigh of relief when he shouted the spell, but her relief was short lived, there was a delay in the spell; maybe he wasn't strong enough for his broom to come… Then she heard it; something moving fast toward the stadium; she cheered as Harry jumped on his broom and flew around the stadium. She half listened to Fred and George's commentary about the quidditch moves Harry was using. The dragon followed him around the arena, and when it was a good distance away from the egg, Harry took a sharp turn and flew toward the egg. However, the dragon's tail swooped and caught his shoulder as it flew over him. Harry flew around again and waited until the dragon was further away than the last time and he tried again, this time being successful. The stadium was deafening when Harry's name was announced in a tie with Krum's.
The following the first task, Ron and Harry rekindled their friendship and were quite obnoxious about it. Hermione took to hiding in the library to do her homework to get away from it. The Wednesday after the task, Krum cautiously approached her table.
"Is it alright if I join you?" He timidly asked with a strong Bulgarian accent.
Hermione looked up and smiled shyly, "Sure." She introduced herself and set back to her work.
Light conversation flowed but for the most part, Hermione noticed that his book was open, but he barely turned a page; he watched her instead. It was quite unnerving, but she tried not to draw attention to it. This odd behavior continued for a week until the second Thursday night he joined her; he finally spoke to her.
"So, Herm-myown-ninny, I was wondering if you would accompany me to the Yule Ball?"
Hermione paused writing her essay for Professor Sinstra and looked at him, "I'm sorry?"
Victor smiled, "Will you be my date to the Yule Ball?"
"Really? I mean I'm flattered but wouldn't' you want to go with one of your more adoring fans? I'm not much for quidditch conversation."
"Does that really seem like that's all I can talk about?"
Hermione let off a light embarrassed laugh. "I'm sorry, no it doesn't. However, I would think you would want to go to a late-night event with someone who's more… athletic."
Now it was victor's turn to laugh. "You mean with a girl who will fawn over my every word and hero worship me? Not exactly my idea of a good time."
"I'm sorry," Hermione said again, "I thought you would have preferred to go with someone who could at least hold some conversation on the sport."
"I prefer more intellectual conversations; they tend to last longer."
Hermione laughed.
"So, what do you say; will you go with me?"
"I'd like that. I'll meet you at the entrance hall at 6:45?"
"I'll be waiting."
They returned to their books but a Durmstrang student approached, "Sorry Victor, the High Master would like a word."
"I'll be there promptly." Victor turned his attention to Hermione, "I'll see you later?"
"Sounds good, goodbye Victor." She went back to her book until he left the library. She giddily pulled out a blank parchment and wrote to tell Christina and Norman the news. Two letters later, she sealed it and went to the owlery.
After sending the letter with an owl twenty minutes later, she headed back into the warm castle where she ran into Fred, literally.
"I am so sorry Fred; I wasn't watching where I was going."
"That's okay, I actually was coming up to talk to you, I saw you leave from the tower."
"Oh, what about?" She asked, ignoring his nervous comment, and starting back toward the castle.
"I was wondering if you would like to go to the Yule Ball with me?"
Hermione's steps faltered. Fred misread her actions and began to back track. "I'm sorry, you don't have to say yes, or anything… I'm just going to go."
"No, Fred," Hermione reached out to grab his arm, "I'm flattered really, but… well… I was already asked to go with someone else. If I wasn't already going with him, I would have said yes." She smiled.
"Well, that's a relief," he smiled awkwardly. "Can I ask who the lucky guy is?"
Hermione blushed, "I will, but you can't tell. Victor Krum."
"Well, that's nice, I don't feel so rejected now, your just popular with all the celebrities, aren't you?" He joked.
She playfully shoved him, "Stop it, that article was ridiculous. I was just giving Harry a good-luck hug and Victor was being a gentleman."
Fred laughed, and apologized. The rest of the walk up to the castle, they caught up on benign subjects of their lives. Just before entering the castle, Hermione paused and said, "You know, Fred, I heard that Katie Bell still needs a date, I'm sure she would complement you nicely."
Fred smiled shyly, "Sure, I'll look into that!" He looked sincerely into her eyes, "I really am glad that you were asked Hermione, and I hope that you have a good time with him."
"Thanks Fred, I hope you have fun too."
"If he crosses any lines, George and I will take him out for you… I hear the squid likes bulky quidditch players." Fred said in mock sincerity
Hermione laughed and they continued on their way to Gryffindor tower where they went their separate ways to continue with their day.
That Monday, Hermione awoke with a feeling that something wasn't quite right. However, she couldn't quite place it, so she decided to push it to the back of her mind and continue with her morning; she had classes to get to after all. Today she started her day with double potions, so she needed all of her focus. After meeting the boys and eating a decent breakfast, Hermione led the way down to the dungeons for their first period. However, as soon as she entered the classroom, Snape told her to go to Professor McGonagall's office.
"Did I do something wrong, Professor?"
"Your head of house doesn't see a reason to tell me the nature of her business with you."
"Of course, sir. Is there any work I should grab before I go?"
"Don't be a teacher's pet, Granger, I'm sure if I decide to assign anything, Potter and Weasley will gladly gripe later. Now go before I decide to take points."
Hermione shouldered her bag and grabbed the pass he held out to her before she walked up to the transfiguration classroom. She knocked once before Professor McGonagall answered the door. She was clearly expecting me, Hermione thought.
"Hello Professor, you wanted to see me?"
"Good morning, Miss Granger. Please come in, would you like some tea?"
Hermione sat on the sofa where her professor indicated, "Is everything alright, Professor?"
The professor slowly sat, "I'm afraid I did not ask you here for happy news, Hermione. There's no easy way to say this, but your legal guardian and her parents were attacked last night. Christina is in Saint Mungo's. Her parents… were not as fortunate. I'm sorry to say that they passed away."
Hermione was in shock, "I'm sorry, Professor, but you must be mistaken, I just received a letter from her last night. She is fine. She was taking my grandparents out for their anniversary."
"I wish I was, Miss… Hermione. Mister Jacob contacted the Headmaster this morning, just after breakfast."
Hermione's eyes blurred.
Professor McGonagall placed a hand on her arm. "I am so sorry, Hermione."
At the feather touch, Hermione broke down. She felt herself being pulled into a loving hug and she continued to be while she cried. Hermione didn't know how long it was, but she finally calmed down to talk.
"I need to see her."
"I understand, dear. However, Saint Mungo's is not allowing visitors until tomorrow morning. The Headmaster has given you permission to leave school for a couple of weeks if you need. He also contacted Lord and Lady Denham. As you closest family, it was his obligation. They are wrapping up their business in Berlin and coming home."
Hermione nodded in understanding.
"You are excused from classes for the rest of the day. I suggest that you take the time to process and pack whatever you wish to take with you. Your escort will be ready to leave tomorrow morning following breakfast. Given the circumstances of the attack, the Headmaster has also told us that a staff member will be with you while you handle things at home."
Hermione nodded, "Professor, I hate to be a burden, but will you go with me? I don't want to take you away from your duties here, but you are the only professor who knew them all personally besides the Headmaster."
"Of course, dear, I already volunteered and cleared my schedule."
"Thank you," But Hermione wasn't quite ready to leave yet. "Do they think it was death eaters, Professor?"
McGonagall sighed, "I honestly don't know, Hermione. The aurors are looking into with the recent activity but no official document was released stating so."
Hermione nodded again and stood, "Thank you, Professor, I am going to go… process this."
McGonagall told her to take her time and escorted her to the door. Hermione didn't look back as the door closed behind her. Instead of heading straight to the tower, Hermione walked aimlessly until her path brought her to the library. She didn't pause, she went straight to her table and pulled out her book. She tried to focus on her studies but found her mind wondering in every direction.
Eventually, she heard the undeniable sounds of conversations in the hall that signaled the first double period was over, and students were heading to lunch. As welcome as a distraction as Victor was, she didn't know if she could face anyone right now without breaking into tears. She snuck out of the library and entered the hallway. Faceless students passed her as they headed to the great hall; she didn't know if anyone said anything to her, and she really didn't care. When she reached the common room, it was blissfully empty. She headed straight to her room and put her bag under her bed so no one would notice it.
She climbed into bed and drew the curtains. Just before she shut herself in completely, she grabbed her letters and a picture of the Stanton family. She stared at their smiling faces. This had been the last time they had all been together as a family. It was Jake's graduation; he was giving her a piggyback ride as they both laughed at the silliness of it all. Gran was smiling at the childish behavior; Papa looked every ounce as proud as he was. Her eyes traveled to Christina frozen in time, she was smiling as she held Jake in a headlock.
A tear fell on the glass and spread along the surface. Hermione held the photo to her chest as she laid on the bed. She allowed herself to cry in her solitude and she eventually cried herself to sleep. It was a several of hours later that she awoke, she barely had the energy to move. At the silence of the dorm, she looked around and saw that her dormmates were asleep. She quickly grabbed a bag and packed some of her things. She found that an elf had delivered a list of her homework from all the professors. After her bag was packed, she quietly passed through the room and down the stairs to the common room. From the stairs it didn't look like anyone was awake, but a voice startled her as she reached the portrait hole.
"Ah, so you are alive after all."
She whirled around and grabbed her chest, "Fred, you scared me."
"You scared all of us, so we'll call it even. Why haven't you been in class."
"I wasn't feeling well," she snapped as she went to sit on the couch.
"Ok, let's try that again, with a little more truth to it." Fred moved over to sit next to her, "What's really going on, 'Mione? Is it something that a good ol' Weasley product can fix?"
"No," She snapped as she starred into the fire.
"Can I get you something to eat?"
"I'm not hungry."
"What's going on? You know you can talk to me."
She finally looked at him, "I… Professor McGonagall… um… called me… I was told that," tears started to run down her cheeks, and she averted her gaze from Fred back to the fire. The words she was trying to get out were caught in her throat. "My family was attacked last night. Christina's in the hospital, but the healers won't let me in to see her until tomorrow. I don't even know her condition! And my grandparents … the Stantons… they're gone." The last part was just above a whisper. As she allowed herself to let the pain out, Fred pulled her to his chest for support.
"I am so sorry, Hermione." Hermione cried through the small amount of details she knew. "Please don't tell anyone, I don't think I can handle sympathetic stares right now."
"I promise, Hermione. Whatever you need."
"Thank you."
"Now, I'm going to ask you to answer my question."
"I did."
"Not that one. Can I get you something to eat?"
She paused in thought before she said, "I am a little hungry."
"Alright then," Fred called Dobby and he got Hermione some soup from dinner. Fred summoned his books from the table and sat with her while she ate.
"I'm sorry Fred, I didn't mean to take you away from your studies."
"I may be related to our dear Ronnikins, but there is no way I am doing homework right now, it's far too late."
"Then what are you working on?"
"Product plans, just fine tuning some theories, you know, to pass the time."
"Can't sleep?"
Fred paused, but he didn't look at her immediately. "To be honest, I was hoping you would show your face. I was… We were all worried about you."
"Why? I'm the house bookworm, hardly worth the notice, let alone worry over."
"You are someone worth worry." Fred stressed, "You are kind and smart. I didn't know what was going on and for my own sanity, I needed to know that you were okay."
Hermione noticed his change; he was sweet. "Thank you, Fred, it is really nice to have someone I can talk to." She smiled and finished her last bite of soup. "Do you mind if I look at those?"
He shrugged as he handed them to her. "They are not quite finished yet."
"Fred, these are really good!" she said as she looked over his sketches and notes.
"Thanks, still got to fine tune some things, make sure we don't send any customers to an early grave."
"That could be bad for business."
Fred laughed at her sarcastic comment. "That would take away from the genius of it all, I suppose."
Hermione laughed too, then a thought struck her, "Did you ask Katie to the ball yet?"
"Wow, that was a topic change," Fred smirked, "Yes, she was quite excited that I asked."
"Imagine that, a good-looking boy like you asking her; she was bound to say 'yes'."
Fred smiled and went back to his plans. He explained some of the general ideas to her before they both found themselves yawning more than talking. As Hermione headed to her room, she turned back to him, "Hey Fred, in all seriousness, thank you. Thank you for being here for me and with me. I don't think I would have been able to be this open with anyone else.
"Anytime 'Mione. A word of advice, you should tell the guys what is going on, at least let them know the details of your absence."
"I'll keep that in mind. Good night, Fred."
"Good night, Hermione."
Hermione pulled herself together to attend breakfast the next morning. She had received a letter from her grandparents expressing their condolences as well as apologizing and letting her know that they would meet her at the hospital as soon as they were back in the country. Hermione was a smart girl; she knew that her grandfather was at important meetings regarding education, so she tried to be as rational as possible when processing what they told her. Soon, the boys joined her for breakfast. Ron, surprisingly, was the first to notice her bag under her seat.
"What with the bag Hermione? That's not your usual school day bag?"
Hermione took a deep breath and told the boys about Christina and her parents. Her eyes only blurred to her relief, and the boys each gave her a hug. She explained the special permission to leave the school for a couple weeks.
"We're here for you, Hermione." Harry said.
They ate and talked about the schoolwork Hermione had, much to the boy's annoyance. They looked as relieved, as Hermione was sure they felt, when the first bell rang. Hermione watched them practically run from the hall. She caught Fred's eye and noticed his own smile. She was a bit surprised when she felt herself return it. She grabbed her bag and started to leave the hall when she ran into someone.
"Hermyowninny, I didn't see you in the library yesterday." Victor said as he grabbed her arms to steady her.
"I was a bit busy yesterday, Victor, I apologize if you were waiting for me."
"It is no trouble. I was wondering if we could get together and study this evening?"
"I am sorry Victor, but I am heading home for a bit, there is a family emergency. Professor Dumbledore gave me permission to stay home for a couple of weeks."
"Oh, is there anything I can do?"
Hermione smiled, "No thanks, Victor, I have it covered"
Hermione gave him a small smile before leaving the hall herself. She joined Professor McGonagall in Dumbledore's office to floo to the Hospital.
"Do you have everything, Hermione?"
"I think so…"
"Alright then, after you." Hermione took a breath and stepped through the fireplace.
Hello my loyal readers! I want to apologize for the Hiatus. Since my last post, I gave birth to my son, who is my beloved handful, I have been so exhausted so the thought of posting and making sure my story is going the direction I want has not been at the forefront of my mind, I am sorry. Secondly, my Beta went back to school and that has to be her first priority as her education will help her get to where she wants to go. I was unsure if I wanted to post without her input. I decided that I am going to risk it. That being said, this chapter and chapters going forward will not be Beta'd. When we get to that point, I will post an AN at the beginning of updated chapters as well as the last update before we begin that process. So please ignore errors, I read my chapters 4-10 times before I post but I am human (imagine that shock to my self esteam, haha). I hope this update satisfies you all and refuels the fire you had when I started, I have more written but it might take me a bit longer between posts to get it up than I was doing before. Again, thank you for the love and words of encouragement!