Full Summary: The famous McKinnons have dropped a new line of perfume: Amortentia's First Bloom No. 5. A strain of the popular but frowned-upon love potion. It's meant to boost the most attractive qualities of the wearer, a customized harmless pheromone. In pursuit of finding their perfect model to represent the brand, they've opened up a competition for models and photographers to pair up and submit an outstanding photoshoot collection.
This was an amazing opportunity for a model like Hermione Granger. It would've been—if not for the fact she's been publicly humiliated by her long-time photographer boyfriend, Ronald Weasley, leaving her for an A-List model. Hermione Granger is resigned to defeat when no photographer wants to work with her. That is—until the famous photographer Harry Potter wants her.
Author's Note: This is for the Harmony in the Workplace event. My prompt was: Model!Hermione/Photographer!Harry. This story will have two parts total. Thanks for reading! Drop a review if it pleases you (:
Big thanks to my beta: Amidland. This would've been a dumpster fire without you!
Check out AO3 version if you want to see the cover photo.
Being a muggle-born model was not an easy feat. Hermione Granger had her work cut out for her with the discrimination against muggle-borns in general in the wizarding world.
Hermione has been modelling since she was 16 and then as a full-time professional once she graduated Hogwarts. It wasn't ever easy. As a muggle-born, she learned very quickly that she would always have to endure a lot more than a half-blood or a pureblood.
Often, she was the one who had to be the first to shoots and the last to leave. The one who couldn't take breaks and held her tongue when it came to criticisms. And even though Hermione has been a model for the last six years, she wasn't much further in her career than when she started.
It was both devastating and demoralizing. Still, Hermione was not the type to give up. Modelling was her dream. She wanted to walk famous runways, be the cover of big magazines, and represent brands she truly believed in. And then, when she could no longer model herself, she wanted to be the one who created famous runways, big magazines and be a mentor for other young models.
And maybe, she'd find love along the way.
So, reading Witches Weekly's front page today was like a kick in the teeth.
RONALD WEASLEY ABANDONS HERMIONE GRANGER FOR A-LIST MODEL LAVENDER BROWN!
Rita Skeeter
It is well-known that Ronald Weasley has been a long-standing famous photographer. His career quickly rose the moment the young man left Hogwarts. He's done various shoots, including for your very own Witches Weekly!
It was also well-known that Ronald Weasley was dating Hermione Granger even during their Hogwarts school days! Hermione Granger is a small-time model, despite having been in the industry for six years. Her work is limited to commercials and indie magazines.
Surprisingly enough, Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger have never collaborated on any projects together. In the past, Ronald Weasley has said, "Hermione always said no when I asked her if she could be the model for the projects I'm working on or collaborating with other people."
Perhaps Miss Granger thinks herself too good?
That being said, Ron Weasley was found having an intimate dinner last night with our very own upcoming model, Lavender Brown. Miss Lavender Brown recently entered the industry when her photo was captured and uploaded on the WizNet last year. Since then, she has been on the cover of multiple outstanding magazines and represented famous brands like Pleiades. The two were found sitting intimately close, and Ron Weasley giving a passionate kiss at the end of the night.
As if a stagnant career isn't already tough, Hermione Granger is finding herself stale in the love life area as well.
Stay tuned as we keep you updated!
Blasted Rita Skeeter. Hermione kept seeing that nasty bug of a woman in every breaking news story in every newspaper and magazine since she quit The Daily Prophet and started freelancing her work.
Hermione tossed the magazine across her flat and rested her head on the back of her sofa.
This was just perfect.
Closing her eyes, Hermione pinched the bridge of her nose as though it would stop the oncoming headache. But, instead, her mind flashed back to when she had found out about the affair just barely a week before the article had come out.
It was ugly. It was more than ugly. Ron and Hermione had always had an on-and-off relationship. Sure, they had been friends during their days at Hogwarts, but their friendship consisted of bickering and rowing often. There was so much tension between their biting words, so of course, their relationship had also been explosive.
They had started dating at the end of the sixth year, and it was good. Hermione had her dreams, and Ron decided he wanted to pursue becoming a photographer. So, for a while, it was something they shared. But, not on any actual projects—as Ron said, Hermione was adamant they didn't.
It was clear that while Ron's work was decent, his blood status really helped him along the way. Ron became notable within two years while Hermione had been struggling to land jobs. Of course, it didn't help that Ron's sister, Ginny, had decided to become a model a year after she graduated and surpassed Hermione despite entering the industry later.
Ginny had stated that she had wanted to become a model to spend more time with her boyfriend, Harry Potter.
Harry Potter, Hermione idly thought. The most acclaimed photographer of their time.
Harry wasn't someone she often interacted with despite having been in the same house at Hogwarts. Instead, they shared different groups of friends (Hermione didn't have many friends, and Harry was always surrounded by people).
They simply existed in different orbits.
Of course, when she started dating Ron and Ginny began dating Harry Potter, they saw each other a little more.
It would be at family dinners with the Weasleys or every other holiday. They had talked a little more then. Harry wasn't arrogant like she thought he'd be—having legendary parents and legendary himself and all.
She remembered drinking too much wine one night and telling Harry why she never worked with Ron on a project and why she was reluctant to do so. Hermione wanted her work to be meaningful in some way—Ron wanted to create things that would be popular. Also, she didn't want to rise to fame on the coattails of her boyfriend—because of his blood status.
And Harry understood. Despite having done projects with Ginny, Harry understood.
"Becoming somebody and knowing it isn't because of the work you put in means nothing, right?"
That was the last thing she heard from Harry. Shortly after, he relocated to Germany, Italy, and France for a few years to create his first exhibition, taking Ginny along with him.
The exhibition was a smashing success, but Ginny returned without Harry.
That was three months ago.
Hermione was pulled out of her thoughts when her WiPhone rang. She picked up after looking at who was ringing her.
She sighed, "Hi, Luna."
"Hello, Hermione," Luna replied, her voice light and melodic.
"Saw the article then, did you?" Hermione tried to keep the bitterness out of her voice.
"Mmm," Luna hummed on the other line. "As I told you, Ronald Weasley wasn't meant for you, I wouldn't pay any mind to it."
"Well, he could've at least had the decency to break up with me instead of crying how it was a mistake to only then be caught romancing her in public a few nights after!" Hermione hissed before she took a deep breath and sighed. Luna didn't deserve her ire.
"Quite right," Luna agreed, ignoring Hermione's tone. "Anyway, as terrible as the article is, that's not why I called you."
Hermione made some grumble in the back of her throat.
"It's an insider scoop I got for the Quibbler," Luna chimed. "The McKinnons are releasing a new perfume line tomorrow. They're going to be looking for an ambassador for it."
Hermione sat up.
"Really?"
The McKinnons were a long-standing luxury brand name, but on top of that, they were advocates for creatures and muggle-born rights. As a result, they were one of the top brands that Hermione had only ever hoped to work with.
"Really," Luna replied dreamily. "They're going to be hosting an open competition event. Photographers and models are to pair up and submit a collection piece with a sample. Winners mean the photographer and model both get to work with the McKinnons for the launch."
Hermione's breath hitched.
Oh Merlin, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
"There's going to be an exclusive event a month from now. The McKinnons will be making their announcements and the sign-up for the competition will be then as well," Luna told Hermione. "You understand what I'm telling you, right?"
"Yes," Hermione breathed with the first smile she had since the breakup with Ron. "I need to find a photographer."
Luna hummed lightly.
"You're the absolute best, Luna," Hermione was smiling so hard that she was sure the other girl could see it through the phone.
"The Wrickle Wings did all the work," Luna whimsically said. "But I appreciate the comment. I'll see you soon?"
"Most definitely," Hermione agreed.
Luna made a gleeful sound. "In the meantime, I'll wish Nargles upon Ronald. Right, I had better be going, bye-bye, see you soon."
Once the line hung up, Hermione rested back on the couch in deep thought.
She needed to make a list. A comprehensive list of all the photographers she knew that she could work with. Then, she could start reaching out to them once the McKinnons released their official statement that their new perfume would be launching.
The universe was just. Sure, her relationship with Ron had ended poorly, but at least there was this opportunity.
There was balance.
o-o-o-o
The universe was terrible, and balance didn't exist.
Hermione nearly burst into tears in frustration. There wasn't a single photographer that would work with her. She had made calls after calls, set up coffee meetings after coffee meetings.
Every day for nearly a month.
And there was nothing.
Well, that wasn't true.
Colin Creevey was willing to work with her, but he was currently unavailable since he was going to Africa for 6 months for his own project.
Everyone else kept giving her weak excuses about why they couldn't work with her or saying they already had another model in mind to work with. Then, finally, the only person who was truly honest with her was Theo Nott.
"Hermione, I would love to work with you," he said to her as they met up for tea.
"Really?" Hermione brightened as her back went straighter. Before she could say anything else, Theo gave her an apologetic smile.
"I would if it wasn't for the fact that I'm already working with Tracey," Theo sounded regretful.
Hermione sighed as she sat back in her seat roughly.
"It's okay," she told him with a small smile. "I'm guessing all the purebloods had tips about what the McKinnons would be doing?"
Theo nodded. "Words travel fast through the grapevine for us."
"I don't know what to do," Hermione groaned. "I've reached out to nearly everyone and I can't get anyone to work with me. I know I'm a muggle-born but it's not like I have no experience. All the projects I've been on always had stunning receptions."
Theo looked hesitant for a moment.
"What?" Hermione latched onto his hesitance like a leech.
"Well..." Theo dragged.
"Just tell me," Hermione insisted.
"I'm gonna be honest, Hermione," Theo said quietly. "You're going to be hardpressed to find someone who will be willing to work with you. Being a muggle-born is one thing, but the news article about you and Ron made it worse."
"Worse?" Hermione frowned with anger. "Why? That's none of anyone's business."
"I know," Theo said gently, trying to placate her. "But people are stupid. The article has painted a very ugly picture of you even though you're the victim in this. It doesn't help that Lavender is a pureblood and an up-and-coming model."
Hermione felt her throat burn.
"So, no one wants to risk their reputation working with me because I'm the sad, stagnant muggle-born model that can't even keep her own boyfriend?"
Theo pressed his lips together. "This competition is important for many people. They're not willing to risk partnering with you and going against Ron and Lavender and everyone else. Do you know what I mean?"
Hermione merely let her eyes fall close as she tried to centre herself and not burst into a million tears from rage and frustration.
"Hermione?" Theo called her name softly.
Hermione's eyes snapped open. She gave Theo a thin, weary smile.
"It's fine, Theo," she said as she got up. "Thank you for being honest with me. Good luck with Tracey."
Despite the truth being thrown in her face, that didn't deter Hermione too long. She kept trying. Coming up with new lists of photographers, expanding her limits, and calling people.
All of it came up dry.
Hermione sorely wished that she could just enter this project alone. Sure, she only had limited experiences behind the camera, but surely it was better than having nothing at all.
Unfortunately, when the McKinnons released the preliminary requirements, they were clear all participants must be partnered as anything successfully achieved was never done alone.
Curses.
And now, it was eight hours before the event, and Hermione was still partnerless.
Hermione loathed to admit it, but she felt hope was slipping away from her. She had reached out to every single contact she could think of, even reaching to previous companies and people she worked with to see if she could ask for favours.
Nothing.
And as much as Hermione wanted to keep trying, she knew that the chances of finding anybody who was available and willing in the next eight hours were next to zero.
This opportunity might just have to pass by her while she wallowed.
Hermione's WiPhone started ringing.
She checked the screen and sighed before picking it up. "Hey, Luna."
"Hi, Hermione," the girl greeted pleasantly. "Are you excited for the event today?"
"No," Hermione grunted before sighing. "I'm not going, Luna. I couldn't find anyone to work with."
"Hm," Luna dragged her hum on the other line. "I think you should still go."
"And what? Get myself even further humiliated?" Hermione snorted. "I think I'll pass."
"Don't be silly, Hermione," Luna chastised, but her tone was too light to make Hermione feel any shame. "You should still go. Everyone will be there, including those who may not have found a partner yet. You might get lucky."
"And if I don't?" Hermione asked with a flat tone.
"Then you'll still be a beautiful model that has shown everyone that Ronald Weasley can't make you hide. It'll be an amazing event regardless," Luna promised.
The words sparked something in Hermione, the part of her that so badly wanted to show everyone they couldn't beat her down.
"Alright," Hermione conceded, nodding even though the other girl couldn't see her. "I'll be there."
"Lovely," Luna beamed dreamily. "See you soon then. Ciao!"
o-o-o-o
People were staring at her.
It took all Hermione had to sip her champagne coolly as if she didn't notice a thing.
Luna had greeted her briefly before apologetically having to run off to interview people and get the scoop for the Quibbler. The dreamy girl had been right, at least. People who have yet to find a partner did arrive, scrambling at the last minute to square off.
At first, Hermione had attempted to talk to different people, but it was quickly apparent they wanted nothing to do with her. Another problem was that any photographers left that did want to speak to her were the unscrupulous type. As much as Hermione wanted this opportunity, she wasn't willing to put her safety at risk.
And so, she was stuck to the side, watching and waiting for the event to start.
The place was crowded. Everyone who was anyone seemed to have been invited to the event. The place was crawling with reporters, too, including that viperous witch Rita Skeeter. The occasional camera flash in her direction was slightly dizzying, mostly because Hermione knew what kind of things would be said about her tomorrow, but she did her best to pretend like she hadn't noticed all of it.
All the models and photographers Hermione expected were there. Cho Chang and Cedric Diggory; Ginny Weasley and Blaise Zabini; Tracey Davis and Theo Nott; Daphne Greengrass and Sue Li; and the Patil Twins.
There were other notable participants, but those were the people she recognized from her Hogwarts days. Of course, there were influential people outside of the modelling industry as well. She had caught Draco Malfoy, Astoria Greengrass, the rest of the Weasley family, and Neville Longbottom.
Hermione had to pointedly not look at the Weasley family. Ever since the incident, she hadn't spoken to the family at all. It seemed most of the family didn't agree with Ron's actions; the twins had made it a point to owl her to tell her that they were on her side. Everyone else had felt awkward with their loyalties torn.
Still, her eye, unfortunately, caught Arthur's, who gave her an apologetic smile. Hermione merely tipped her head in acknowledgement, her champagne glass still to her lips.
Glancing at the time, Hermione noted that the event would be starting in less than five minutes. A part of her had wanted to go home after she'd been completely unable to find a partner. Listening to the details of the spectacular event to come would probably make her more miserable and bitter. Yet, Hermione was rooted in her spot because the desire to know about the event outweighed everything else, even if she couldn't participate.
"Oh my god, look!"
The sudden loud exclamation from someone a couple of feet away from her drew Hermione's attention away from the stage.
"Harry Potter is back in town! Harry Potter is back!"
The words surprised Hermione, and she couldn't help but turn her head towards the open doors. True to the screaming, Harry Potter was back. He walked through the doors with a calm facade, adjusting the cuffs of his suit without looking at anyone.
Hermione knew better, though. That day they did share little information about each other. Harry had told her he didn't like being the centre of attention, which is why he preferred being a photographer. He liked being behind the camera.
She was surprised to see him return from his trip, and he seemed to come alone. Harry walked up to Daphne and Neville, grabbing a champagne flute as he pretended he hadn't just caused a storm.
A brief, fleeting thought entered Hermione's mind. She could ask Harry if he wanted to enter the competition with her. He was just newly returned, right? Harry must've known about the launch and the event, but had he thought about entering himself? Did he manage to get a partner?
As quick as the thoughts came, dozens of women and men began to clamour around Harry, Daphne, and Neville. Models upon models, some even abandoning their current partner to see if they could snag the world-famous photographer. And so, Hermione let her thoughts die like a popped balloon.
Hermione inwardly snorted to herself, taking another sip of her drink. Sure, she knew Harry marginally better than some of the people in this room, but the fact that she thought Harry Potter would ever partner up with her despite the fact that they hadn't spoken in years was laughable to Hermione.
She must be mad.
Hermione's thoughts came to a swift end when the lights dimmed, signalling the event was starting.
Everyone, including herself, clapped their hands as Carlton McKinnon came onto the stage and his wife, Juliette McKinnon.
Carlton pulled out his wand, tapping it twice on his neck.
"Good evening, thank you for coming to our special event tonight," Carlton's voice boomed as he smiled. "Welcome to the McKinnon 100th-anniversary gala."
Everyone clapped while Carlton waved his hand along with Juliette.
"The McKinnons have been a long-standing family of potion breweries. We began to dabble in perfumes 50 years ago, and here we are today—the industry's leading brand. As I'm sure many of you have heard, we'll be releasing a new line today."
More clapping and a couple of cheers littered the room.
"I'm going to pass this to my wife now because she's definitely going to know more about perfume than me," Carlton joked, and there was laughter throughout the room while his wife rolled her eyes with a smile.
Juliette used her wand to tap her throat twice before she swished her wand with a flick at the end. She conjured the perfume in question in her hand before she flicked her wand again to create a giant holographic of the perfume for everyone to see.
"Introducing Amortentia's First Bloom No. 5."
Suddenly, whispers broke out across the room, and Hermione found herself frowning.
While Amortentia was legal...it was rather frowned upon for its properties to make someone fall in love with another person.
She had remembered some incident back in Hogwarts with Romilda Vane trying to ensnare Harry Potter. But, unfortunately, it seemed Neville had been the one who accidentally ate the chocolates.
"Now, we understand the concerns," Juliette smiled. "But rest assured that this is merely a strain of Amortentia. We've created a perfume using this strain that enhances the most attractive qualities of the wearer. It's an astounding customized but harmless pheromone."
Then, Juliette opened her palm and tapped her wand on her hand twice. A golden ticket appeared.
"While we know many want to participate in this competition, we will only be selecting those who make it past the preliminary rounds. Those who do will get this golden ticket and will be advised on which day to come to our head office. There you will be able to smell a sample of our new line and be given the materials needed for your photoshoot." Juliette tapped her hand again, and the golden ticket disappeared.
"Participants will be given one month to create a photoshoot collection. We want to see the full range of your capabilities. You'll be submitting your top 5 photos—two stills and three moving photos. Lastly, you'll be creating a 15 second ad commercial," Juliette informed, and whispers broke out about it, many buzzing with excitement.
Juliette smiled as she waved her wand once more, lightening up the room with another date in plain view. "After submissions close, we and other stakeholders will review everything submitted. The winner will be announced in one week. The winner of this competition will have all their work used in the advertisement and the model will be our spokesperson. Once the rest of our line is ready to be launched, the photographer will be our lead campaign director and will work directly with us for the rest of the products."
Applause erupted through the room with cheers. It was then that Carlton came back up to stand next to his wife.
"With that being said, last minute signups are still available at the front. Those who make it past our preliminary check will receive a golden ticket within the week via owl. We look forward to your work and please enjoy the rest of your night!"
o-o-o-o
"I thought you weren't going to be back in until tomorrow," Marlene pinched Harry's cheeks in jest, laughing when Harry grimaced at her but allowed her to kiss his cheek.
"I finished up early so I thought I'd portkey in today to support your family," Harry told his aunt. "Where's mum and dad?"
"Lily's chatting with some old schoolmates while James is embarrassing himself with Sirius and Remus. See? You can see them right there spiking the punch bowl," Marlene nodded her head, and Harry followed the direction she was pointing at him.
True to her word, Harry's father was distracting the crowd while Sirius poured something in the punch bowl, and Remus was trying to transfigure the ice sculpted swan into something else.
"Brilliant," Harry smiled. "Mum's going to love that."
"Well, she'll love scolding him and then having James suck up to her after," Marlene said dryly. "Are you going to enter the contest?"
Harry shook his head. "No, I don't have a partner. I think people would also accuse me of having an advantage."
"Nah," Marlene shook her head. "As much as mum and dad love you, everyone knows that they don't play favourites when it comes to their work. Besides, I think there's a line up for you as we speak if you're looking for a partner."
Harry shrugged again.
Marlene patted his cheek. "You've been such a serious little thing since you and Ginny broke up. Lighten up, darling. Some things aren't meant to be. I know you'll find someone meant for you, and that'll only happen if you play the field."
Harry rolled his eyes as he smiled at her. "Oh, yeah? Like you before you finally found your bollocks to ask Dorcas to settle down with you?"
Marlene let out a burst of laughter. "Exactly. Now, get along and see your friends and mingle. You know where to find me if you need some tricks to woo the ladies."
Harry rolled his eyes good-naturedly before wandering off. He greeted people left and right as he passed them before finally settling when he found Neville, who was chatting with his girlfriend, Daphne Greengrass.
"Glad to see you're back, Harry!" Neville smiled as he clapped his godbrother's back warmly.
"Good to be back," Harry smiled as he greeted Daphne.
"Are you entering the competition?" Harry asked Daphne.
The blonde nodded as she pointed to Sue Li, who was talking to Blaise and Ginny. "Yes, Sue and I will be working together."
Harry stared on, frowning at Blaise and Ginny. "Is Ginny entering too?"
Neville smiled awkwardly. "Yeah, she's seeing Blaise right now. They're going to enter together."
Harry didn't know what to say after that. It wasn't like his breakup with Ginny was particularly bad or anything. There hadn't been any screaming or fighting, but it was saddening and still pricked his heart when he thought about it.
Luckily, Harry didn't have to say anything before he heard someone else calling his name.
"Potter!"
Harry turned, already knowing who it was by the way his name was called. Draco, dressed in a sleek, all-black suit and silver tie, was making his way towards him with champagne glasses for all of them.
"Draco," Harry greeted with a quirk of his lip as he accepted one of the champagne glasses. "Where's your better half?"
Draco glared at him. "Astoria had to leave because she had some last minute things at her charity work." Then, Draco grumbled. "You didn't reply to my last letter."
"Well, I was returning home soon after so I thought I'd just answer you directly now that I'm back," Harry shrugged.
"You have the worst etiquette," Draco grimaced but then sighed. "I guess it's good you're here. Now, Cousin Sirius can stop harassing me into doing pranks with him."
"You can just tell me that you missed me like a normal person, you know," Harry smirked while Draco narrowed his eyes.
"Where's your mother?" Harry looked around.
"She's with her fiancé in France. They'll be travelling for a couple months," Draco shrugged. "I think she likes it better over there."
"That's good," Harry nodded as he sipped his champagne, eyes roaming around the room. Finally, his eyes landed on Ron and Lavender, the ginger having his hand on the blonde's lower back intimately.
"When did that happen?" Harry asked, drawing the attention of the group to where he was staring.
"Oh," Neville winced. "If you think you had the bad Weasley, then be thankful you're not Hermione."
Daphne elbowed Neville in the ribs, causing the taller man to yelp.
"What?" Neville frowned. "It's true! I didn't mean it in a bad way. I really feel for Hermione."
"What Ron did to her was outright spiteful," Daphne glared before she huffed.
"Spiteful?" Harry muttered to himself with his brows pinched together.
Harry remembered the few times he talked to Ron. He didn't spend too much time at the Burrow. Ginny usually preferred to be out and about or at his parents' place.
Ron seemed like a decent enough bloke, slightly... arrogant, but decent. They got along well when they talked about Quidditch, but that was really about it. Out of the Weasleys, Harry had gotten along best with the twins and Bill the most outside Ginny.
"Merlin, Potter," Draco rolled his eyes, his lip slightly curled. "Do you not keep up with the news at all?"
"The Daily Prophet pisses me off and I already know it's usually you or me on the cover of Witches Weekly. There's no point," Harry shrugged.
"Well, for once you're wrong, Potter," Draco muttered before he conjured the latest issue of Witches Weekly. "Here," he passed the paper.
Harry was shocked to see the cover alone, and as he slowly read the rest, his stomach felt uneasy. He wasn't close friends with Hermione, but he did remember her.
He remembered her kind eyes that also held some kind of fire in them—the fire that he felt he lacked at times. They hadn't talked much at Hogwarts, but there were a few moments at The Burrow. Those few conversations had made Harry wonder how an honest and driven woman like Hermione had ended up with Ron.
But now, that was obviously over.
Harry made the papers disappear after he finished reading. Then, when he looked around again—purely to reassure himself that Hermione wouldn't be hardheaded enough as to show up—fuck, she was actually here.
Merlin, why would she show up!? Harry had to give it to her. She was bold.
"So, is she entering the competition then?" Harry asked, keeping his eyes on her, trailing the way she drank from her champagne flute.
"No," Neville shook his head. "I've heard around but apparently, no photographer wants to work with her."
"Why?" Harry frowned. He's seen her work before, and he thought she was absolutely brilliant.
"Other than the fact the Britain Wizarding World sucks and though they swear it's taken seriously, muggle-borns are still discriminated against?" Daphne muttered. "Hermione has been left out to hang dry by Ron. It was an ugly breakup and Ron's chosen Lavender—and very publicly—the new 'it' girl."
"This competition with the McKinnons is a one in a lifetime opportunity," Draco spoke from the side, taking a sip of his champagne. "Every photographer and model knows exactly what it can do for their careers. The McKinnons are basically giving them full creative control of how the perfume will be marketed if you win."
"So, no one wants to take a chance on a seasoned, yet stagnant model?" Harry guessed disappointedly. While he had seen all of Hermione's work, that was just it. There wasn't much for him to explore. He knew the other girl had been a model and active for a while, but it was strange that she'd never gotten further in her career.
And now he knew why.
"Precisely," Draco nodded before grimacing. "It wasn't from a lack of trying. Trust me, I heard that Hermione has asked nearly anyone and everyone. I tried to call in some favours for her under the wraps, but even I couldn't make anyone agree to work with her," Draco admitted with a sigh.
"You tried?" Harry cocked his brow.
"I thought it could...you know," Draco grumbled.
"Make up for what a purist asshole you were to her in school until you realized your father was absolutely mad and trying to bring back Voldemort? And then having to swallow your pride and come with your mum to seek refuge with my family while they arrest your father?" Harry asked nonchalantly before continuing. "And then having to testify against your father to go to Azkaban for life because it's one thing to be an arrogant, rich, purist asshole but another to actually try to bring back Voldemort?"
Draco curled his lip, grimacing as he turned to Harry. "Yeah, that," he huffed. "Must you feel the need to bring it up so often?"
Harry smirked. "Yes because how else do I keep you from returning to your old ways? I'm doing everyone a favour and keeping you humble."
"I'd like to think I've grown as a person and realized the error of my ways," Draco said dryly. "Also, I would refrain from taking all the credit. I think Granger's punch to my face in third year actually set everything in motion."
Harry hissed in mock pain as he remembered it happening during one of Hagrid's lessons. "Oh, that looked like it hurt. She packs a wallop. I'm actually surprised that you didn't tell her, 'my father will hear about this!' after it happened."
"I didn't want to tell my father and mother a girl punched me in the face so hard, I saw Merlin," Draco shrugged.
The group laughed lightly before they turned their attention back.
Harry locked eyes with Hermione, the girl realizing he was staring at her. She gave him a brisk smile and a nod that he didn't even have time to return before she looked away.
"Oh, no," Neville muttered under his breath.
"What?" Harry turned to look at his godbrother.
"Ron and Lavender are making their way over to Hermione," Neville jerked his head in the other opposite direction across the room.
Sure enough, Lavender was pulling Ron's arm towards Hermione. The tall ginger looked uncomfortable and somewhat resisted being pulled. But Lavender was too headstrong and innocently smiling as she dragged them over to the curly-haired brunette.
"Hi, Hermione!" Lavender shouted, drawing the attention of most participants in the room.
"Oh, Merlin, I can't watch this," Neville turned his head away.
"Lavender really holds a grudge, doesn't she?" Daphne frowned, also tempted to look away but didn't. "She has wanted to date Ron so badly since the fifth year. Then, she finally got to before Ron broke up with her for Hermione in the sixth year.."
Harry's head tilted as he listened. Was that what happened? Personally, he had always wondered why Hermione dated someone like Ronald Weasley. But when he thought about his own experience with his Weasley, there wasn't much he could say.
Hermione was speaking back to the couple, but it was much too quiet for Harry to hear. He stared at her defensive but rooted posture. She was gripping her champagne flute much too tightly, and her eyes were troubled though her face revealed nothing.
It wasn't fair, was it? Harry wondered. They were two people who've been abandoned by their Weasleys. They're both competent people, yet it feels like they're trying to toe their way around everything.
It wasn't fair that Harry still felt hurt when he looked at Ginny, and it wasn't fair that Hermione couldn't find a decent photographer because she's a muggle-born and her ex-boyfriend had publicly humiliated her—even if that wasn't his intention.
Harry huffed, drawing the attention of his mates.
He shoved his glass towards Draco to hold.
"What are you—" Draco frowned. "God, you're doing that saving people thing again, aren't you?"
"This only ends in two ways," Harry said as he straightened his jacket, getting ready to walk. "Either I'm entering this competition or I'm getting punched in the face. Either one will make for better news in Witches Weekly."
o-o-o-o
"Terrible gossip Witch Weekly is, you understand, right?" Lavender smiled with a tilt of her head while innocently leaning into Ron. "I hope there are no hard feelings. After all, we can't help but to love who we love."
Hermione clenched her jaw, refraining from pulling out her wand and hexing the life out of the blonde girl. Her eyes moved to the side to where her ex stood. He looked uncomfortable but too spineless to try to make Lavender leave.
And that meant Hermione's torture would continue because with this many eyes watching her, she couldn't cause a scene. It was like everyone was waiting to see her fall from grace even more.
"By all means," Hermione gritted out, plastering a smile on her face. "I didn't realize you loved Ron so much after all this time. If I'd known, I would've turned him down in sixth year."
Lavender scowled for a moment before her face was pleasant again. Ron looked like he just wanted the ground to open up.
"So, where's your partner?" Lavender asked smugly as if she didn't know all along that Hermione couldn't get anyone to enter the competition with her. "Or unless you don't have one?"
Lavender's eyes grew pityingly as she stared on. "Ah, I wouldn't mind it too much, Hermione. This competition is meant for the best of the best."
The worst part was that Hermione knew Lavender had nothing against her being a muggle-born. The comment was one hundred per cent meant to dig at who Hermione was as a person.
Heat flared in Hermione, embarrassment and anger both at once. She was about to forgo all pretences and pull her wand out. At least something worthwhile would go on Witches Weekly, then.
But before Hermione could toss the rest of her drink onto Lavender, she caught Harry Potter walking towards them in big strides from the side of her eye.
"Hermione!" Harry called loudly, the attention now drawing on him. "There you are, love." He came right up to Hermione, wrapping his arms around her, pulling her into a tight and intimate hug.
Harry's large hand stroked between her shoulders until it settled on the small of her back as he pulled back, his other hand caressing her jaw.
"Did you miss me?" Harry asked with a smile, his voice partially husk.
Hermione's body froze up, confusion and shock entering her as she stared up at Harry.
He smelled good.
Like dry leaves and crisp fresh air.
"'Cause I missed you," Harry said when Hermione didn't answer. "Like mad. Thought I'd surprise you by coming home early and showing up here."
"Harry?"
The calling of his name drove Harry's attention away from Hermione, and he turned, acting surprised as if he just realized they weren't alone.
"Oh, Ron," Harry nodded his head in greeting before he turned his head. "And Lavender. Good to see you both. Did I interrupt? Sorry, I get terribly one-track minded when I see Hermione."
"Oh, not at all," Lavender gave a suspicious and contrite smile. "We were just apologizing for the article Witches Weekly published."
Harry scoffed. "Oh, that rubbish? A load of hogwash is what that was," he shook his head as he turned back to Hermione, a smile on his face and arm around her shoulder. "Her love life can't possibly be that stale if I'm absolutely mad for her."
Harry said it so loudly that many people gasped, and flashing lights went off.
Hermione stared at Harry as if trying to mentally ask him what the hell he thought he was doing.
But then Harry was leaning in like he was going to kiss her and her breath hitched. Instead, he merely slid his cheek against hers, making it look like he was intimately kissing her jaw.
"Play along," he whispered in her ear. "Unless you would prefer public humiliation and no partner for this competition? My pride would be bruised since I don't think I would be a bad choice but I would understand."
And Hermione thought about it, quickly, since Harry couldn't stay pressed against her cheek too long, lest she wanted an article published about her impropriety.
When Harry pulled back, he looked at her questioningly, and Hermione sighed.
As far as choices went, Harry really was the best photographer there was. And though Hermione was hesitant because people would undoubtedly tie her success to his efforts and more opportunities would come by simply having worked with Harry, at least he understood.
Harry understood her base desires of what she wanted out of her career. And he would respect it.
So, she nodded, smiling lightly when Harry grinned.
Hermione hooked her arm around Harry's and leaned into him, though much more poised and dignified than when Lavender had done it to Ron earlier.
"I was just telling Lavender and Ron there are no hard feelings," Hermione smiled. "And that if I'd known Lavender wanted Ron so desperately badly, I would've turned down his persistent efforts back in sixth year."
Harry let out a laugh. "Sure would've saved us some trouble if I'd just asked you out in sixth year too, huh?"
"You'd have to have known I existed for that to have happened first."
Harry turned to her, tilting his head with a cock of his brow. "I knew you existed. Prettiest and brightest witch in our year. I just wasn't smart enough to show interest in anything except photography and Quidditch."
Despite knowing this entire thing was a farce, Hermione couldn't help the blush that crept into her cheeks.
"So, you're dating now?" Ron cut in with a frown. It was apparent he was displeased to find Hermione had moved on so quickly but was in no place to judge himself. And it was even more gut-wrenching that it was Harry Potter she was with, the boy wonder who Ron had always felt inadequate against.
"We just started seeing each other," Harry said vaguely. "We reconnected just two weeks ago when I saw her post about the campaign she just did with Elves Haven on InstaMage. Then, I DM'd her and then one thing led to another and we've floo'd every night since. Since I've just come back, I'm finally going to be able to take her on proper dates."
Then, Harry pulled back and turned to Hermione with a confused stare.
"Also, what's all this I've been hearing people whispering about you not having a partner for this competition?"
Lavender seemed to latch onto a potential chance to humiliate Hermione further. "Oh, well, everyone knows that Hermione has been asking people left and right to work with her. Poor thing was turned down every time."
But Harry merely smiled at the news.
"I've already offered you a million times to work with you—begged you, practically, haven't I?" Harry sighed, and he turned to the couple but saw how everyone was staring at them. "She's been adamant we don't work together."
"I know that feeling," Ron muttered bitterly.
But Harry quirked his brow. "But I managed to convince her this morning." He turned to Hermione. "You're sweet for wanting to keep it a secret, though."
Harry kissed her cheek, and Hermione warmed at his cool lips.
"You're actually working with him?" Ron asked indignantly.
Hermione bristled at Ron's tone.
"Yes," she said evenly. "You know how I feel about working with people I'm seeing but Harry's so sweet and his photography is simply stunning. I think Harry understands me just well enough that I'm willing to make an exception. We're going to create something meaningful equally."
Ron merely grimaced, and Hermione let her eyes flutter away. In the far distance, she noticed Ginny Weasley staring at her with hot eyes.
Whatever just happened, Hermione knew they were creating a storm. Hopefully, the ending would result in a peaceful, beautiful rainbow.
"Let's go write our names down, shall we?" Harry smiled. "I think we've been here long enough and I'm just dying to get you to myself. Is that agreeable?"
Hermione swallowed as she hooked her arm around Harry's again, pressing into his side. "Agreeable."
o-o-o-o
"I'm not thanking you."
"Didn't really expect you to."
Hermione stared at Harry, eyes slightly narrowed in suspicion. The two of them had made it out of the event, now sitting on a park bench at night, eating ice cream.
It was Harry's suggestion since they were currently being tailed by reporters but no one had the bollocks to approach Harry up close. So it was safe enough for them to talk freely.
"Why did you do it?" Hermione asked finally, staring at her sweet dessert. She tensed a little when Harry lifted his arm to wrap around her, but remembered pictures were being taken and allowed herself to melt into his side.
"Honestly?" Harry asked, and Hermione nodded. "You looked so miserable I couldn't help it."
Hermione scoffed while Harry lightly laughed. "It's fine. I know the feeling."
That was a hint if any, Hermione realized.
"Ginny?" Hermione asked softly, licking her ice cream idly.
Harry hummed. He hadn't really wanted to talk about it, but he supposed it was only fair given the situation they were in.
"Things didn't end badly or anything," Harry mused before he shrugged. "If anything, things ended like...nothing. It was hollow. People change, you know? Sometimes they grow apart and want different things."
Hermione nodded, understanding the feeling completely.
"Ginny ended it but I'm well aware it was long over before then. I'm also the one who feels like I'm being hexed when I look at her. Then I saw Lavender circling you like a vulture and I just thought, 'How unfair is this? We both get dumped and we still have to bear the pain afterwards? They get to move on right in front of our face and what? We just have to endure it while everyone around us thinks we're chumps?'"
Harry shook his head. "I don't know about you but my ego and pride are already bruised. It doesn't need to be beaten while it's down."
Leaning forward, Harry tried to relax as he heard faint clicking sounds of a camera in the background. As much as he had gotten used to it, it could still be unsettling.
"Besides," Harry turned to Hermione with a grin as he finished his ice cream. "I think you just saved me from a really humiliating article about my return and somehow having it linked to Ginny. So, maybe I should thank you?"
Hermione surprised them both when she playfully slapped his arm. They found a few good laughs despite the situation.
"So, we're really doing this?" Hermione asked, and Harry nodded.
"Why not? Only seeing pros here. We could win the competition and keep each other away from humiliation about our exes. When it's all over, we can just say we split amicably because we aren't seeing each other enough or something, but we're still good friends as we sing praises about each other. We can still hang out to prove that the breakup was friendly," Harry shrugged.
Hermione bit her lip.
But in the end, she sighed. At the very least, she had a partner for the competition.
"We need more ground rules," Hermione said instead. "For both fake dating and this project."
Harry nodded, expecting it, given all he knew about Hermione.
"For the project, I want to be able to give my input and make decisions too," Hermione said in a non-negotiable tone.
"I didn't expect it any other way," Harry cocked his brow. "You'll definitely be pulling your weight."
Hermione smiled. "We have one month to put it all together, so we need to create a schedule. I'd like it if we could go together to the McKinnon head office to smell the perfume. It'll be easier for us to talk about it after it's fresh in our minds."
"I'll floo over?" Harry asked, and Hermione nodded.
"That's really it for ground rules on the project," Hermione shrugged. "I'm sure more will come up as we actually start to work on it."
"And for our charade?" Harry asked with a grin, leaning back against the bench and resting his chin in his hand.
Harry thought it was somewhat charming that Hermione blushed lightly.
"Well," Hermione shrugged. "We should decide how long to go on for."
"The project is one month, but we should go on for three otherwise it may seem strange," Harry pointed out. "It's perfect because in the next upcoming months, there are a couple socialite events."
"Three months," Hermione agreed with a nod as she finished her own ice cream.
"We should try to go on 1-2 public dates a week," Hermione licked her lips, catching the rest of her dessert.
"Shouldn't be too hard," Harry nodded. "And PDA?"
Hermione flushed. "Um. I'm usually not too big on too much PDA. Handholding and small gestures are okay, but definitely no snogging in public."
"Chaste kisses then?" Harry tried not to smile and look as serious as possible.
"If the need arises," Hermione muttered. Then, she sighed before looking at Harry. "This won't be weird, right?"
"Weird?" Harry tilted his head. "I mean we're basically acquaintances, borderline strangers who are now fake dating while working on a project together. I think the entire thing will be weird."
Hermione grimaced and nearly scowled at Harry.
"But," Harry started again, trying to placate his fake new girlfriend. "It'll get less weird the more we get to know each other through this. Unless somehow the more we get to know each other, the more we actually end up hating each other."
"That's not funny, Harry."
"It's a little funny," Harry grinned. "Relax. The few times we interacted, I enjoyed talking to you. I can't imagine that will have changed too much. I'm a pretty easy going guy."
"Right," Hermione huffed, trying to not overthink the fact Harry admitted he had liked talking to her before.
"Alright," Hermione sighed once more. There were a few more rules she could probably come up with, but she didn't want to do or say anything cliché like saying, 'don't fall in love with me.' It would be both too assuming on her end and also humiliating if Harry said anything to note that he would never fall for her. "So, as long as we agree to respect each other's boundaries, it should be fine."
Harry hummed in agreement. "Just one more thing."
Hermione looked at Harry questioningly. The night has dragged on quite a bit now, and it was late. Harry leaned closer while Hermione tensed. The sound of clicking cameras didn't make it much better either.
"My family is a bit...nosey. And persistent," Harry mumbled. "You'll have to come meet them and probably sit in for a few weekly dinners."
"What?" Hermione quietly hissed. She had to meet the Potters? Oh, Merlin, she knew Harry was a Potter but to meet his parents? Hermione had admired Lily Potter for ages. She sincerely hoped she wouldn't make a fool of herself. "Why do I—"
"Rules are rules, Granger," Harry smiled as he was nose-to-nose with her. "I'm happy to meet your parents if you'd like."
"And make everything more complicated?" Hermione asked.
"You don't have to say I'm serious. We can just be casually fake dating," Harry offered.
"I don't introduce casual dates to my parents," Hermione pursed her lips. "Do you always introduce your casual dates to your parents?" She was trying to not judge; she really was.
"No," Harry shook his head.
"Then why...?"
"My mum really likes your work. If she finds out I'm seeing you and I don't bring you home to meet her, my own mum will hex me," Harry smiled, and Hermione felt her heart racing a mile a minute. "You're the exception, Hermione."
Oh, Merlin. Lily Potter liked her work!?
Hermione thought that Harry was going to give her a chaste kiss like they had talked about. It would've made sense. The camera was right on them from a respectable distance, and they were trying to make headline news.
But Harry merely pressed his warm lips against her cool cheek.
Hermione told herself it wasn't disappointment that she felt. Because it would make no sense to be disappointed that Harry Potter—someone she hadn't seen in years—hadn't kissed her.
"I'm going to make you one really happy fake girlfriend," Harry whispered teasingly. "Looking forward to working with you, Granger."
A part of Hermione wished that Harry would say she wasn't allowed to fall for him. Though, she wasn't sure that could stop her in the long run. Hermione was quite adept at breaking the rules when she wanted to.
Three months, Hermione told herself. It was just three months of handholding, closeness, and potential (chaste) kisses. After that, it would be done, and maybe she'd gain a really good friend.
In fact, maybe Harry Potter was actually a terrible boyfriend—fake or not.
A/N: Part Two will be up next Sunday. Cheers!