The days immediately following the Halloween ball seemed to drag on endlessly. The chill of November settled on the frost laden grounds, and soon after snow began to fall. The stretch between Halloween and Christmas was short and the teachers were giving more homework and assigning more tests. For once, Hermione was glad that she had no schoolwork to do. Draco was abnormally resigned after he found out about Edan and Cosette, and Hermione begged him to talk to her, let her help him, but Draco always refused. He said that it was in the past and there was no reason to dwell on it further. The couple had kept Cosette's identity a secret so far, telling no one and only talking about it when they were alone. Camille had been gone more than usual lately, but so had Ron, and Hermione had a very good feeling that they were off together. Dillon hadn't talked to Ginny much since the ball, which was probably for the best. The whole arrangement had added another layer of ice to his secluded heart, withdrawing him further from society. He was rarely seen anywhere but classes and the library. Hermione had started worrying again, but Draco assured her that Dillon was fine. The days passed by at a languid crawl, leaving the students restless and unfocused. Christmas soon approached and the list of students going home was longer than ever. Voldemort's supporters had been seen near to Hogwarts and Hogsmeade, and suspected Death Eaters were disappearing. Parents wanted their children home with them. After the final list was counted, the only students staying behind were Ginny, Dillon, and Camille. Ron, Hermione, Draco, Sirius, Remus, Narcissa, Severus, and Dumbledore were also staying at the castle. Harry and Cosette were coming the day before Christmas and would be staying for the remainder of the year. As the holiday neared, many students became excited while others looked upon going home with distaste. The train finally did show up and the halls emptied. While Ginny was saying goodbye to Avery, Katrina, and Bryan, Dillon came over.
"Virginia, do you think you could hurry up a bit? Dumbledore wants the students staying here for Christmas to come up to his office." Dillon whispered in Ginny's ear. She sighed and hugged her friends once more before following the already retreating form of Dillon.
"Hey!" Ginny called, running. "Dillon, hold on!" He stopped and turned around. Ginny ran up to him, cheeks slightly pink and smiling. "Uh, I just wanted to talk to you." Dillon looked at her inquiringly, but walked slowly forward. Ginny followed. "About these past few weeks. I mean, I understand that the ball was probably a drag for you, but I had a lot of fun, and you've been avoiding me since then."
Dillon continued to walk slowly. His eyes were cast straight ahead; his face emotionless. "Why did you do it?" He asked softly. The deep tone of his voice mixed with the note of sorrow made a shiver run down Ginny's spine.
"Why did I do what?" Ginny asked innocently. Dillon turned his eyes onto her. The dark green seemed endless, and Ginny felt guilty in some way.
"Why did you ask me to the ball?" Dillon said quietly. His pace had remained even. Ginny blushed and looked at the floor. Why did I agree to ask him to the ball? Ginny thought.
"Because I wanted to make Harry jealous." Ginny answered almost inaudibly. "I wanted him to see me as a woman, not just Ron's little sister." Dillon turned to look at her. She blushed under his gaze and looked at the floor. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you, Dillon."
"You didn't hurt me, Virginia. Don't worry." Dillon said gently. He turned and started walking again, pausing only to let Ginny go up the stairs before him. Dumbledore smiled as he saw the two come up the stairs and promptly offered them a lemon drop. Both students, a little depressed, politely refused and sat down. Hermione was sitting with her hand entwined with Draco's while he sat stiffly and faced forward, eyes void of emotion. Ron and Camille were whispering, and Harry and Cosette were standing by the window.
"Well, then, now that we are all finally here, let me begin." Dumbledore sat down behind his desk and eyed them all with mischievous blue eyes. "As you well know, Tanith is going to attend Hogwarts from now on. Harry will be staying here as well. The rest of you will be able to stay in either your current quarters or move to any of the four house dormitories. Tanith, if you'll please come up here, we have to sort you into a house." Tanith stepped forward gingerly and sat down. Dumbledore placed the hat on her head before it had a chance to sing.
"Hmm…Interesting. Very peculiar." The hat whispered in Cosette's head. The room was watching intently as Tanith squeezed her eyes closed. "I see you have the qualities of all the houses. Like Hufflepuff, you are hard working, but not so loyal to your family's calling. Yes, you are indeed a clever little witch, but I think Ravenclaw would be an insult to your abilities. Gryffindor, yes…you possess a lot of bravery in your tiny frame. Gryffindor would help you on your way…but Slytherin. Ah, yes, Slytherin. You are ambitious; I can see that. Slytherin prized students like you. Students who are cunning, daring...pureblooded. Not all Slytherins turn out bad." The hat was murmuring on, soft and low, its words unbeknownst to the rest of the room. It turned toward Draco at it's last comment. "Yes, Slytherin would indeed be a wise choice. But I think you ought to be in…" It paused before shouting aloud. "Ravenclaw. The house of mystery." Everyone looked at one another, only Dumbledore truly understanding what the hat had meant by 'the house of mystery'. Cosette took the hat off slowly and handed it to Dumbledore.
"I believe the hat is right. Ravenclaw is not the best suited, but the best choice." Dumbledore whispered, placing the hat on it's shelf. "You do not have to stay in the Ravenclaw dormitories. Draco, Hermione, Dillon, and Camille will still be occupying the Head Student's rooms, am I correct?" The four nodded. "You may stay with them, move into Gryffindor tower with Harry, Ron, and Ginny, or you can stay in Ravenclaw. Whichever you prefer." Dumbledore smiled and sat down, popping a gumdrop into his mouth.
"I'd like to stay in Ravenclaw, sir." Cosette said softly.
"An excellent choice, my dear! If I may, can I suggest you take a student," Dumbledore paused, looking at Harry with a slight twinkle in his eye. "Or an ex-student with you so you are not alone?" Dumbledore smiled.
Cosette hesitated. "Could Harry stay with me?" She requested shyly. Dumbledore's smile only grew wider.
"If Mr. Potter wants to, I believe he would be an excellent choice." Dumbledore and the rest of the room looked toward Harry for a reply. "Well, Harry? Would you like to stay in Ravenclaw?"
Harry watched Cosette curiously. He was certain that she would ask to be left alone, or possibly ask for Hermione or Ginny to come with her. He never expected that Cosette would choose him. "I would love to." Harry said simply, smiling at his friend. Cosette had taken the place of his family, filled the void Voldemort had created. Sirius was the only other person he felt that close to, and was sure that as soon as Cosette was out of school, that Harry, Sirius, and her could live somewhere together. Cosette smiled, blushing slightly, and stood up.
"Professor, I would like to change before dinner. Do you think you could show me to my dormitory?" Cosette asked quietly.
"I'll take her." Draco said. "I'm sure Potter needs to pack his things before moving, and I know the password." Harry eyed Draco suspiciously, and was a little surprised when Dumbledore nodded.
"Go ahead, Mr. Malfoy." Draco took Cosette's arm and led her down the stairs. Ron, Camille, Hermione, and Dillon followed shortly after. Harry lingered, waiting for the last set of footsteps to fade.
"Professor?" Harry said uneasily. "I wanted to ask you some things. Tanith said that her father was a Death Eater, and he had never been killed. Why doesn't the Ministry find him?"
Dumbledore sighed. "He's in America with his second wife and their children. We have no power overseas."
"Who is her father?" Harry pressed; realizing that he was digging for information he knew wasn't his business. "Why does Voldemort want to find him so badly?"
"Ah, Harry, what I wouldn't give to be able to tell you, but I am afraid that information is Tanith's to tell you. If she wants you to know, she will tell you. It's obvious she trusts you." Dumbledore sat back in his chair, looking Harry straight in the eye. But what if trust isn't enough? Harry questioned himself, nodding to Dumbledore and leaving. She has a secret, possibly a dangerous one, and I intend to discover just what it is.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Draco and Cosette walked silently down the corridor, making sure everyone was out of earshot before they started speaking. Draco breathed in deeply.
"Cosette, why did you choose to stay in Ravenclaw? I mean, I'm sure you didn't know this, but it's on the other side of the castle. Maybe you should stay in Gryffindor tower, or with Hermione and me." Draco said softly, putting and arm around Cosette's waist and pulling her closer to him.
"No, I think I'll like the privacy. Harry and I get along pretty well, I think we'll manage." Cosette said softly.
"Just come to our dorm if you need anything." Draco said. He hugged Cosette tightly. "Tomorrow morning is Christmas. Come to our common room. Everyone except the teachers will be there." Cosette nodded.
"Happy Christmas, Draco." She said quietly, kissing Draco's cheek. "And thank you."
"Happy Christmas, Cosette." Draco said back. He hugged her tight, making Cosette smile. "Snowflakes." Draco said, causing the painting of a forest to swing forward. Cosette stepped inside, gasping at the interior of her new common room. The walls were a deep shade of purple and the curtains and furniture were a soft shade of gray. The room was almost square with identical spiral staircases leading up to the dormitories. There were stray candles lit all over the room, and the fire was crackling merrily. Cosette sank onto one of the chairs and surveyed the room with pleasure. In Beauxbatons, she had been assigned a small room off of the girls' hallway. It was nothing compared to Ravenclaw house. After sitting a few moments longer, Cosette stood and went to her room. Dumbledore has sent Fawkes down, and he was sitting on her bedpost, watching her. Cosette didn't know why she had a phoenix sitting on her bed, but she imagined it must be from Dumbledore. She detached the note from his leg and read:
Dear Cosette-
I trust this note will find you, not anyone else. That is why I used your first name. Harry is getting a little suspicious; he really cares about you and I think he wants to help you. He asked me who your father was-I couldn't tell him. I believe you must explain when you see fit. All your belongings have been brought over and unpacked by our friendly staff of house elves. Harry will probably come shortly. Christmas Eve dinner will be in the great hall; I ask that you dress up. We'll have our own sort of Christmas ball tonight.
Happy Christmas!
-Albus Dumbledore
Cosette smiled and put the note under her pillow. She searched through her closet to find something to wear, but found nothing. She took out her wand and pondered on what to wear. Cosette had never been very girlish and was horrible at dressing up. She decided to find someone she could trust and who better than Hermione? (After all, Harry had been her best friend for over seven years, and Draco was married to her.)
Cosette went to the closet and ruffled through until she found her broom. It had been a birthday gift from her mother before she died-a Nimbus 2003. She mounted the broom and flew out her window. Circling the castle a few times, Cosette finally landed on a window ledge and hopped inside. She went up to the picture of the mermaid and watched. The mermaid was sitting on a rock, looking at the sky and twirling a stray lock of hair around her finger.
"Excuse me." Cosette said. "But do you think I could get inside? There are some people there that I want to talk to." The mermaid sighed dramatically and rolled her eyes.
"What is it with you people? No password, no entry. Sheesh! If they wanted to talk to you they would tell you the password." The mermaid sighed again and slid off her rock into the water. Cosette sighed and leaned against the wall. As she had expected, Dillon came up soon. He looked at her questioningly, but she smiled.
"I have to talk to Hermione." Cosette explained. Dillon nodded.
"Sorpresas," Dillon said softly. The portrait swung open. Camille and Ron were sitting on one couch, whispering and laughing. Draco was sitting on a chair near the fire, holding Nero. Hermione was nowhere to be seen. "Dumbledore says for everyone to dress up and be in the Great Hall at seven." Dillon said and went to his room. Camille jumped up and quickly kissed Ron goodbye and rushed to her room. Ron stood and left, chuckling to himself. Cosette walked over to Draco and placed a hand on his shoulder.
"Hey," He said softly. "Is there something you needed?"
"I was looking for Hermione." Cosette replied, watching Nero closely. The snake slithered up Draco's arm and onto Cosette's hand. "Do you mind…?" Cosette asked.
"Not at all." Draco said, watching. Cosette cupped her hands and picked up the tiny black snake. She held Nero close to her mouth and whispered to him.
"Hello." She hissed. Draco watched in slight amusement. "I'm Cosette, Draco's friend." Nero squirmed a bit.
"Who's Draco?" He asked. Cosette laughed.
"He's your owner. Him." She said, pointing to Draco. "I just wanted to say hello. I have to find Hermione, the brunette girl who lives here too. Goodbye!" Cosette placed the snake back in Draco's hands. "He didn't know your name." She said, smiling. Draco ran a finger down Nero's spine. "Where's Hermione?"
"Ginny and her are in that room with Camille. They're probably getting dressed." Draco said, placing Nero back in his tank. "Tell them to meet us out here at 6:45."
"Sure," Cosette said, walking to the specified room. Draco went to the one across the common room. She knocked lightly and heard footsteps inside. Hermione opened the door and smiled.
"Hello Tanith." She said. Ginny and Camille came over and smiled. "Anything I can help you with?"
"Well, I actually came to ask you to help me get ready for the 'ball' tonight." Cosette said. Hermione's smile widened and she stepped back.
"I would love to." Hermione said, and pulled Cosette inside.
* * * * * * * * * *
At five minutes to seven, the four girls emerged from Hermione and Camille's room. The guys were sitting scattered around the common room, waiting impatiently for their 'dates.' The girls went to their respective partner and said hello. Ron was gaping at Camille. She was wearing a deep green dress, accentuating her eyes. Around her neck was a silver chain with an emerald just above her bust line. Her blonde hair was swept back in an intricate twist, and she smelled lightly of roses. Ginny went to Dillon, and he kissed her hand politely. Ginny was wearing a pale cream dress with gold sparkles around her face and on the bodice of the dress. Her hair was down, but curled slightly around her face. They were the first to leave the room. Cosette, who had never been one to dress up, was wearing dress robes of cobalt blue silk; a color that matched her eyes. Hermione came out last, going to Draco and kissing him softly. She was wearing a black dress with her hair tumbling down her back in curls. Pulling back from Draco, she smiled.
"Orchids," He whispered, inhaling slightly. Hermione laughed, her eyes sparkling. He kissed her again and they left the room. Camille and Ron came out after about five minutes, Camille looking exceedingly happy, and Ron's normally pale face flushed with color. Draco smirked, obviously figuring out what had happened. Harry laughed as Ron came out, only causing Ron to blush harder. The group eventually went to the Great Hall and sat down for dinner. Dumbledore, Snape, and the other adults were already seated and chatting away happily. Narcissa was sitting very close to Severus, but he pulled back a touch when Draco walked in the room. He laughed silently, and went to stand next to his former teacher. Leaning down, Draco whispered in his ear, "I don't think my mother found that move too affectionate." Severus looked up sharply, his black eyes piercing Draco's. Draco smirked and moved to sit down with Hermione.
"What did you tell him?" She hissed in his ear. Draco laughed a bit, turning to watch his mother. Severus placed an arm around her waist.
"Oh, nothing…" Draco said, turning away and looking completely innocent. Hermione smiled and leaned against his shoulder. Dinner progressed slowly and with much talk, ending with music floating from the enchanted ceiling. Snow was drifting gracefully down, melting just before it reached the company. Draco pulled Hermione up to dance. Camille and Ron, Cosette and Harry, and eventually, Severus and Narcissa soon followed them. Remus and Sirius sat back, laughing and talking with Dumbledore. Ginny sat quietly, watching Harry and Cosette. Dillon, obviously having enough Christmas cheer, excused himself and left. Eventually the night settled down, and, nearing midnight, everyone sat down. Just before the chatter started up again, Hermione stood up and clinked her knife on her goblet.
"Excuse me, but I would like to tell you all something. As I found out in October, I am pregnant." She sat down, positively beaming, as everyone (excluding Draco and Narcissa) gaped at her. Ron was the first to break the silence.
"Who's the father?" He asked, still in shock. Everyone gazed at him in disbelief, mixed with the initial shock. Hermione turned to Draco, and they both laughed. Ron, realizing how obvious the answer to his question was, muttered a soft 'never mind.' Ginny smiled and hugged Hermione.
"Oh, that's wonderful! When is the baby due?" Ginny was noticeably excited. Hermione, still smiling, addressed the room.
"The baby is due in late June, we don't know the exact date yet, and we don't know anything else." Draco reached over and grasped Hermione's hand. She looked down at him, her cheeks tinged pink, and searched his eyes for a clue to how he might be feeling. Before she could ask him anything, Severus spoke up.
"You do know, Mrs. Malfoy, that this will mean that very soon after your child is born, Voldemort will attack; that is, if Mr. Weasley's prediction is correct." Severus had stood and was facing Hermione. Her smile faded and she looked at her plate.
"I know." She whispered. Albus also stood at this point and walked to Severus. After whispering something in the wizard's ear, Dumbledore proceeded on to talk to Hermione.
"Don't feel guilty, Hermione. It's inevitable. But now we know that in ten or so months, Voldemort will be attacking Hogwarts, and we can formulate a plan. Thank you. Now, get some rest. Staying up late can't be good for your baby." Dumbledore smiled and left with Severus. Hermione sighed and waved goodbye to everyone and left, Draco following close behind. As soon as they exited, he placed an arm around her waist and kissed her lightly.
"Don't look so worried, love. Dumbledore said that it was fine. Trust me, I don't think any of them will be too upset." Draco pulled her closer against him.
"I know that I shouldn't feel guilty. I mean, it was going to happen eventually; why not when everyone is still here? But, I don't know…" Hermione sighed, leaning her head on Draco's chest as they walked through the portrait hole and into the common room. "I just doesn't seem right for me to put everyone in danger just because I want to have a child."
"It's not all your fault. I helped too." Draco said, slightly smirking as Hermione laughed quietly. "Let's not worry about it. It's Christmas Eve." Hermione nodded and sank into a couch. The common room had been decorated very festively, with a tree in one corner, tinsel strewn about the room, and small flickering lights floating around the ceiling. The younger witches and wizards had decided to celebrate together in this room, and everyone's presents were piled under the tree. Draco sat next to Hermione, smiling. "Hey, I've got a gift for you. Open it now?" He asked, pulling out a silver papered box from the table next to him. Hermione looked at him suspiciously, but gently took the box from him.
"Thank you." She whispered, staring at the paper. Eventually she opened it, very carefully, and placed the neatly folded paper beside her. In her hand she held a leather book. Turning it over in her hands, she saw her name 'Hermione Malfoy' embossed into the leather. She looked up at Draco, who merely leaned back and smirked.
"Well, look inside. A book doesn't do you much good if you don't read it." Draco smiled at her. Hermione sighed and untied the cord holding the book shut. The book fell open, revealing handmade pages. The first page had her name on it in intricate cursive. Looking at Draco, Hermione raised an eyebrow in inquiry, but he simply nodded. She turned the page and read:
Sun was setting in gold and blues, Promising tomorrow will come true. Memories linger of hours passed. Crimson hues, our shadows cast. Eyes of blue, sun kissed skin Lips like wine as night begins. Sun bestows its final wink. Surf recedes in shades of pink. Mandolin cries, faint and low. A warm embrace, a song we know. Rest your head, hold me tight. We move as one by candlelight. Bodies sway with gentle sighs. Reflections play in loving eyes. Like petaled stem from virgin seed, A soft caress like a summer breeze. Against the walls and window panes, Our shadows play like summer rain. Evening passes, music fades. Candle dims, moon invades. Filling within hearts and minds, Like a love one feels or hopes to find. Now evening's kiss is on our lips. An evening's dance to reminisce. Whispers, soft, as you take my hand. Was it all a dream in the evening sand? The promises made, not in haste. Sweet thought of you like honey's taste. Between the moon and morning light, You take me slowly, holding tight. Simple pleasures as if new. Bodies one, but born as two. Like starlight's wink, high aloft. You're warm whisper, low and soft. They seem to say, without a sound, Feelings true will abound. Things we feel, things we see Makes these lovers' hearts believe In things not heard, In things not seen, In simple love And simple dreams.
Hermione finished reading, tears forming in her eyes. She leafed through the book, each page filled with writing. "You…you wrote all this?" She asked, voice slightly quivering. Draco nodded. Hermione nit her lip to keep herself from crying and hugged Draco tightly. "It's beautiful." She whispered.
"I'm glad you like it." Draco said softly, placing a kiss on Hermione's head. Hermione stood up suddenly. Draco looked at her questioningly, but Hermione smiled and ran to her room. Coming back out, she held a dark green box. Placing it in Draco's lap, Hermione smiled. "You weren't supposed to get me anything." Draco said.
"And why not? You wrote me a book of poems, can't I at least give you a gift?" Hermione said, a little confused. Draco leaned over, placing the box on the table, and kissed Hermione gently. Laying a hand on her stomach, Draco whispered into her ear.
"You've given me the best gift anyone could ask for." Draco said, kissing her ear before pulling back. Hermione smiled slightly.
"Well, I still want you to open that one." Hermione said. "The other one isn't coming for another five months." Draco smirked and picked up the box again. He slowly opened it, teasing Hermione as she slightly bounced up and down in excitement. He lifted the lid and pulled out a heavy black book with the Hogwarts crest on the front. Draco opened the cover and saw a note neatly written in silver ink on the first page.
Dear Draco,
I know this isn't much, but I figured it might be nice to have. Something to remind you of the most wonderful year of our lives.
Love forever,
Hermione.
Draco glanced at Hermione who urged him to turn the page. Laughing softly, Draco lifted the black paper and glanced at the next page. There was a picture of Hermione and himself at the Halloween ball. Flipping through the pages, Draco saw that each one held a picture, and a memory, of their seventh year at Hogwarts.
"Well," Hermione said nervously. "What do you think?"
Leaning over to place a kiss on her cheek, Draco whispered, "I love it." Hermione smiled and sat back, reading her journal as Draco looked at the pictures. Eventually, Camille came in and the three went to sleep, waiting for Christmas morning.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Cosette and Harry walked slowly back to Ravenclaw, talking quietly. Upon reaching the forest picture, Cosette murmured the password and went inside. She went to her dormitory as Harry went to his. They changed into nightclothes and met back in the common room. Cosette curled up on the couch, playing with the fringe on one of the pillows while Harry started a fire. He sat down next to her and smiled.
"So, what do you think of the Hogwarts regulars?" Harry asked jokingly. Cosette smiled.
"Well, Hermione and Camille seem like lovely people. A bit too girly for me, but I've always gotten along well with guys. Draco, he's very nice. So is Ron. The teachers are all wonderful…but Ginny…" Cosette paused. "I don't think she likes me, but I'm pretty sure she likes you."
"Ginny?" Harry asked, gaping for a moment. "She had a crush on me in second year; she can't possibly still like me!" Cosette chewed on her bottom lip.
"I'm afraid she does, Harry. Did you see how she was looking at us while we were dancing?" Harry sighed.
"I guess you're right. I must be really dense not to have noticed, huh?" Harry asked. Cosette nodded. "Oh, wait, I have a gift for you!" Harry said, jumping up and running towards his room.
"Just wait until morning." Cosette said, still sitting. Harry shook his head and ran out of sight. A few minutes later he appeared again, holding a blue wrapped box. Placing it in Cosette's hand, he sat down and sighed.
"I want to give it to you now. It's special." Harry said quietly, watching her unwrap the box. She opened a jewelry box and gasped. A thin gold ring with an emerald was sitting on the folds of black satin. "It was my mother's." Harry whispered. "Sirius gave it to me when he was released from Azkaban."
"Oh, Harry, I couldn't possibly take this." Cosette whispered, handing him the box. Harry took the ring out and slipped it onto her right ring finger.
"No, Tanith, I want you to have it." Harry said. Kissing her cheek gently, Harry whispered, "Good night," and went to his room.
Cosette sat there long after, thinking how strange it was that the ring fit her finger perfectly.
* * * * * * * * * * *
Christmas morning dawned cold and white. Snowflakes fell relentlessly all morning, covering the grounds in thick white powder. Harry, Ron, Ginny, and Cosette had already gathered in the Head students' common room. Everyone was there, sitting around a merrily crackling fire and talking. After a while, Hermione suggested that everyone start opening their gifts if they wanted to finish in time for breakfast. Everyone went to the tree and picked up their gifts, handing them out to the respective person.
Ron handed Camille a long red box. She looked at it, and chewed her lip nervously while picking up her gift to Ron. Ron held the box, but urged Camille to open her gift first. Camille sighed and lifted the lid. A single crimson rose lay in the box. The tips were lined with orange and the petals were delicately marbled with yellow. Drawing in a sharp breath, Camille turned to Ron.
"It's a Phoenix Flower." He explained, blushing slightly. "It bursts into flame whenever it starts to wilt and blossoms again. I thought you might like it…" He looked at the floor. Camille put her arms around his shoulders.
"I love it." She whispered, kissing him lightly. "Now, come here. I want to give you your gift." She pulled Ron into her room and opened the closet. "I wasn't sure how to wrap it without giving the secret away, but I hope this will do." She presented Ron with a long box wrapped in blue paper. He looked at her quizzically before suspiciously pulling back the paper. A sleek birch broom fell out and hovered inches above the floor. Ron gaped at it, reading the silver inscription near the end.
"Lightning," He whispered. Camille came over and placed an arm around his shoulder. Ron turned to her and kissed her deeply. Pulling back to breathe, Camille smiled, searching Ron's eyes.
"Do you like it?" She asked tentatively.
"I love it, but it's too much. I couldn't possibly take it." Ron picked the broom up and placed it back in its box. He handed it to Camille, but she pushed it back into his hands.
"Trust me, I had no trouble getting it. I want you to have it." Camille kissed Ron lightly on the cheek. "Please take it." She whispered, pleading with him. "It's nothing compared to your gift."
"I love it, Camille." Ron said, his lips brushing against Camille's neck. "Come on, let's go back in." They walked back into the common room slowly, Ron having left his broom on Camille's bed. They sat down, fingers laced together. The rest of the company had finished opening their gifts, and were preparing to leave, when Harry spoke up.
"Wait, there's one last box." Harry reached far under the tree and pulled out a small gift wrapped in black and silver paper. "Ginny, it's for you, but it doesn't say who it's from." He handed the box to a puzzled Ginny, who took it carefully and unwrapped it. There was a small silver box, with the words "Virginia Weasley" inscribed in the metal. Opening the lid, Ginny drew in a long breath. She picked up a thin silver chain with a sapphire heart pendant. The rest of the room stared, no one daring to breathe. Hermione walked over slowly.
"Ginny, who would send you something like that?" Hermione asked, still staring. Ginny remained silent and motionless. Turning to the others, Hermione spoke again. "Does anyone know who sent this?" No one answered.
"Dillon's the only one not here." Ron said quietly.
"He wouldn't send that." Camille whispered back. "He isn't a very social person, and sending that would mean he loves Ginny, and I highly doubt that." Ron shrugged, standing and pulling Camille up.
"Well, Gin, it looks like you've got a secret admirer." Ron said, smiling and walking to his sister. He took the necklace and fastened it around her neck. The pendant shimmered just above her shirt line. Slowly, the common room emptied.
"Tanith, wait a second." Draco said. Cosette turned around and stared at Draco. He raised his eyebrows and she excused herself. Hermione looked at Draco questioningly, but he nodded and mouthed 'I'll meet you there.' Hermione shrugged and left. "Cosette, I wanted to give you your gift."
"Draco, come on. You didn't have to get me anything. I only gave you Edan's old journal." Cosette said, sighing and sitting with Draco on the couch.
"And I'll treasure it forever." He whispered, pulling out a small green box. Placing it in Cosette's hand, Draco smiled. "Open it." Cosette rolled her eyes and lifted the lid. A small silver locket was laid on green satin. Cosette glanced at Draco, but he only nodded, silently telling her to open the clasp. She did, and gasped. A picture of Cosette and Edan when they were in France was on one side; the other side was engraved with the words To Cosette, with love. –Draco. Tears forming in her eyes, Cosette stared at the picture. Her brother waved at her, and leaned down to kiss the Cosette in the picture on the head. Draco closed the locket slowly and clasped it around her neck. Cosette looked up and hugged Draco tightly, tears pouring down her cheeks.
"Thank you," She whispered, pulling back and kissing his cheek. Draco smiled, and stood. Pulling Cosette to her feet, Draco guided her to the portrait door.
"You're welcome." He said, walking into the hallway and towards the staircase. "I'm glad you like it." They walked in silence to the Great Hall, and sat down to eat brunch with the rest of the company.
* * * * * * * * * * *
That night, Harry and Cosette sat in the Ravenclaw common room. Harry was reading a book on becoming an animagus, courtesy of Cosette. She had bought him the book for Christmas, promising that she would teach him over summer break. Cosette was sitting on the opposite corner of the couch, toying with her locket.
"This book is really fascinating. I'm starting to see why Hermione reads so much." Harry said, his eyes never leaving the book. The storm outside was blowing icy snowflakes against the window. Cosette sat, watching the fire, when a branch hit the window and shattered the glass. At the sudden noise, Cosette's hand jerked and the locket fell off, hitting the table and popping open. Not realizing her necklace had fallen, Cosette jumped up and whipped out her wand. Harry was standing and had managed to levitate the branch outside. Cosette whispered a quick spell, and the shattered glass flew into place. She watched the window for a few moments, before turning back to a silent Harry.
"Harry?" She asked. Harry was staring at the table, his eyes wide and flickering in the firelight. "Are you okay?"
"Cosette?" He whispered. Cosette flinched at her name. "Who's Cosette?" Harry picked up the locket, inspecting it carefully. Cosette's hand flew to her throat, knowing that the locket had fallen off before she touched her bare skin. Harry sat back. "Tanith, why is your picture in here? And why did Draco give 'Cosette' a locket with your picture in it?" Harry looked up sharply, his emerald eyes gleaming intensely. "Tell me, Tanith. Explain everything."
Cosette sighed, closing her eyes. "The picture is of my brother Edan and me in France. It's my locket; Draco gave it to me for Christmas because we've known each other for my whole life. I told you my father was a Death Eater; so was my mother. They worked with Lucius Malfoy quite often. My name is Cosette Lestrange." Cosette's eyes had started to water, and a tear streamed down her cheek.
"Why didn't you tell me? Did you think I would expose you? Or did you need to spy on me for Voldemort?" Harry said, his voice rising with each question. He stood, his eyes flashing with fire and anger. "I bet everything you have ever said to me is a lie. That's why Voldemort is going to attack us. Because you've been feeding him information."
"Harry, please…" Cosette pleaded, tears falling down her face. Harry's voice was quiet and dangerous.
"No, don't even say a word. I don't want to hear anymore lies from you." Harry spun around and walked up to his room. He could vaguely hear Cosette's sobs from the common room, but he didn't care. If she was going to betray them all, it was better she feel guilty and hate herself for doing it. Harry sat on his bed, staring out the window into the swirling snowstorm. How long he sat there, Harry didn't know, but he heard Cosette's cries subside and heard he walk into her room. At three a.m., Harry moved to his closet to pull out his bedclothes. Placing a hand on his closet door handle, Harry jumped when he heard a high-pitched scream. Not think twice, Harry sprinted down the stairs and listened. It was coming from the girls' dormitory. Pausing, Harry considered not helping Cosette, but the screaming only got louder. The note of terror struck a spot in Harry's heart and he ran up the stairs. Pounding the door open, he saw Cosette lying on her bed, cheeks wet with tears, screaming. Harry ran to her, realizing that she was still asleep. Harry placed his hands on her shoulders and leaned down and kissed her hard. Cosette stopped screaming and her eyes slowly fluttered open. Harry's mouth lingered on hers, but he pulled back slowly.
"Harry?" Cosette whispered, her throat stinging. "Why are you here?" She was shaking and Harry, remaining silent, wrapped the blanket tighter around her shoulders. He looked at Cosette, drowning in her cobalt eyes, much like he had when he first met her.
"You were screaming in you sleep. I had to help you." Harry answered. Cosette looked at the wall behind Harry.
"I had the most horrible dream. I relived Edan's death, only it wasn't him." Cosette looked at Harry, her eyes filled with grief. "It was you."
Harry pulled in a deep breath. A few hours ago, he had been mentally damning Cosette to hell, and just a few minutes ago, he had been kissing her like there was no tomorrow, and a few seconds before, he had realized he was falling in love with her.
"Cosette," Harry whispered, the name foreign on his tongue. "I'm sorry about earlier. I'm just worried about Hermione and her baby and the war. I know why you had to change your name." Cosette watched Harry, her eyes searching his face.
"I'm sorry too. I should have told you earlier." Harry cut off her apology by placing a finger on her lips.
"Are you all right?" He asked softly. Cosette nodded. "Come here," He said, pulling Cosette onto his lap and leaning against the wall next to her bed. They sat there till dawn, all the while Harry thinking how perfectly she fit against him, how much he felt like kissing her again, about how he could forgive her anything. The sun slowly rose, ending the night Harry had never realized he had wanted to spend with someone he had thought of, until now, as a sibling. No longer did Cosette remind him of a little sister, but as someone he had fallen madly in love with.
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**AUTHOR'S NOTE** I am so sorry this took so long to get updated. It's long and pointless, but I had a hell of a time writing it. Seriously, the Halloween chapter was supposed to take you up to the baby's birth, but I keep sidetracking myself. Sappy ending, sucky chapter, get over it and review. I'm definitely going to introduce the baby in the next 1-2 chapters, so watch out! A mini Draco-Hermione…aww, how cute. Gag me with a fucking spoon. Yes, so anyways, I would like to thank Jes, my ever faithful beta reader, and Kristy (whom I just met and is beta-ing the last few chapters of this story and hopefully the next story.) I promise I'll get these last few chappies out soon…I have no more field hockey and drama is during the day. *sigh* I have to play Christine, and Sean is playing Raoul… not Nick! Oh well, he's the phantom. At least we get some scenes together. Yes, so review, and I'll keep writing. (10 pages, longest chapter so far. Sorry!)