The next few days Hermione and Draco were floating on air. They found themselves detouring to their classes in a hope they would run into one another. Three days after Hogsmeade, Hermione approached Draco after dinner. "Want to come for a walk?" "Sure," he said, trying to sound casual, but he could have jumped with joy. They walked in silence for awhile. It was a perfect night. The air was clear and cool, full of the smells of new flowers; it was springtime now. Upon passing a bush laden with gorgeous purple blossoms, Draco picked one and gave it to Hermione. "Oh Draco, its lovely," she said, and put it in her hair. "What do you think?" "Beautiful," he said, and Hermione blushed. They walked for a bit more, enjoying being side by side, feeling one another's presence. They came to a stone bench where they sat down. Hermione turned to Draco, eyes shining. "Draco." she started. "Mmmm," She leant over and whispered in her ear. "I think I'm in love with you," Draco's heart leapt. "I think I'm in love with you too." He whispered gently. "You're a much deeper person than I ever imagined," she continued, "and," she leant over again and kissed him, "you're a brilliant kisser,"

* * * * * * *

They walked back to the castle, hand in hand, not caring what other people thought, not caring about the consequences. Because whatever life threw at them, they would be okay, because they would face it together.