Twenty-four short hours had made a world of difference. It found Hermione on the couch with a sappy romance novel and large amount of chocolate. And although she was the picture of a woman scorned, she had no more tears to cry over a relationship that had been over for years. Her attitude was now more pensive than angry, but she could not honestly say that she was remotely recovered. She doubted that it would be less than six torturous months before she could forget her own stupidity, but she was determined to not let it guide the rest of her life. Soon she would be back to her normal self. Soon, but not today.
While Hermione had spent the day in depressed idleness, Draco had been busier than ever. He was determined to see her recovered from this plague of emotions Weasley had all but forced upon her, and has stumbled upon a plan to punish the weasel at the same time. It was a plan with more layers than the cake Weasley would soon share will his tiresome bride, and he was sure that in time, Hermione would be enough recovered to share in his vindictive streak. But that time would have to wait, for the time being, Phase One would consist of restoring his best friend to her former self.
And so, he had hurriedly written a few letters, packed their suitcases, picked up a few things from the Alley, while Hermione had sat unaware. But his tasks were now complete and they could leave right away, provided he could sway her to his destination.
He found her as he had left her hours before, the only indication that she had moved at all was the change in novels that occupied her thoughts. A gentle "Hey," brought her back into the real world. "So what have you done today?" he prodded, interested to see what she would answer when he already knew the truth.
"Oh a little of this, a little of that." She replied vaguely, looking at her paperback as if it were the most interesting thing in the world. Minutes passed in silence as she averred her glance, until she commented out of nowhere "Men are such scum bags."
Draco coughed loudly at this generalization, causing her to finally look up. "Oh I didn't mean you, but I would hardly put you in that category either." Draco smiled, though she had just insulted his manliness grievously, for it was the first sign that her ever-sarcastic nature was returning. But he could not let such a comment slip, else some might question his infamous reputation, and so he enacted his revenge: Death by tickling. His ministrations finally brought about a sound he had missed most during this somber depression, a laugh as sweet as the song of any bird.
It was then, looking her small smile that he remembered his plan. "We should get away for a while, don't you think? Leave our problems at the door, if only for a while." Hermione leaned her head against his shoulder, and gave a noncommittal "Hmm" in response. "Well it's already decided anyway. Your bags are packed for you; all that remains is for you to say yes. Admit your defeat and come along for what promises to be a healing journey."