The rest of the day with Andromeda and Teddy passed by without incident, and Hermione was rather pleased upon returning home. Draco and Harry had managed to spend the entire day together without incident, and surprisingly done their level best to put old hurts aside for the greater good.

For herself, Hermione could admit in the quiet of her lavish bedroom, that Draco continually surprised her. For obvious reasons, she'd never been privy to the inner workings of Draco Malfoy's mind at Hogwarts. The role she'd been bound to play plus her friendship with Harry, had placed her in direct opposition to Slytherin's Prince. He'd mostly ignored her first year, and by second year it was clear the bullying persona Draco projected at school, was both effective and loathsome.

Now she had to wonder just how much of that persona was for show, and how much was indicative of Draco's true nature.

They hadn't spoken of Astoria since their last conversation on the subject of her research and mastery. She also knew according to Harry, Draco was waiting on some important information from Rolf Scamander. For all her intellect, the fact the silver bullet to her research for the panacea might actually be due to Draco's keen intellect, grated somewhat. She didn't begrudge him, in fact she found it quite the turn on.

Mostly…

It was the rationale and reasoning for his interest however, which didn't sit fully well with her.

Was it jealousy?

Hermione didn't think so, at least not at this juncture. She was beginning to actually like Draco Malfoy, the man. She could see how he was loyal to those he cared for, and it was clear Astoria was someone he cared for deeply.

It didn't seem fair he couldn't be with her, regardless of their forced circumstance.

Sighing softly, Hermione went over to her balcony and sat down outside on the veranda. Staring into the night sky, she could pick out the constellation of Draco easily enough from where Eltanin shone the brightest. When her eyes flickered to a few other stars, she smiled wanly thinking about Sirius and how his namesake star and the constellation Orion would become visible once again in about a month. No matter how much time had passed, she knew Harry still missed his godfather terribly. It was one of the reasons he was so committed to being a loving and constant presence in Teddy's life.

Hermione was broken out of her reverie though, when a soft knock sounded on her door.

"Come in."

She heard footsteps approaching and then smiled up at her father, as he kissed the top of her head fondly.

"Did you have a good day, Angel?"

"Surprisingly, yes."

"Oh?"

Hermione watched her father take a seat across from her, and chuckled lightly.

"Both boys were on their best behavior, and Meda was very welcoming to Draco."

"And how did the young Malfoy take to his cousin?"

"I think Draco's a bit lost in how to react to all the new changes in his life. However, he's managed to refrain from being the insufferable git of his younger years, which likely has more to do with Narcissa's influence than Lucius."

Pierre nodded in agreement. "Lucius was never one to associate with anyone he felt beneath him, but that being said, the man loves his wife immensely. I doubt there isn't anything he wouldn't do for Narcissa."

"Do you think that extends to Draco as well?"

Pierre cocked his head in thought, and then shrugged. "I honestly don't know, Angel. I was well enough acquainted with Abraxas Malfoy to glean some understanding as to why Lucius is the way he is."

"I don't think I've ever heard anything about Draco's grandfather."

"He was quite the bigot, and rumor suggested he was the right hand to Riddle since their school years, until he passed away, I believe it was during young Draco's second year at Hogwarts."

"Really?"

"Yes, but don't quote me on that. The last time I spoke with Abraxas Malfoy was perhaps six months before your mother's death."

Hermione decided to ask a question she'd been wondering about for a while now.

"Were you ever approached by Voldemort to join his cause?"

Pierre's expression darkened, and his lips flattened in ire.

"Yes, a few times, actually. Not directly by Riddle himself, but Abraxas did try to sway me to their cause, as did Radalphous Lestrange."

"Was he Rodolphus and Rabastan's father?"

"Uncle. Reinhard Lestrange was Radalphous older brother. He also went to school with Riddle, but died the year Rodolphus married that mad Black witch."

Hermione grabbed her father's hand and squeezed it. "You can say her name, Papa. Fear of a name…"

"Only increases fear of the thing itself. I do believe your mother told you that."

"She did. She was very wise. I miss her."

"As do I, Angel. She would've been so proud of you; of your strength, loyalty and bravery."

"Not to mention my cunning and cleverness."

Pierre laughed in agreement and Hermione grinned at how light her father looked in that moment. He truly missed her Mum desperately.

"Papa, why haven't you ever remarried?"

Pierre's eyes widened with shock. His daughter had never asked such a question from him, and in truth, he'd never spoken of his personal life with her either.

"Hermione, what your mother and I shared was a once and a lifetime love. I won't insult your intelligence by not admitting I've entertained a few discreet dalliances over the years, but when I lost your mother, I vowed I would never remarry. I won't do you, nor your mother's memory, the disservice of allowing someone substandard to enter this home and try and take your mother's place. No one would ever be able to measure up, and it's not fair of me to have the kind of expectations of someone that would be required, when I can't give them my heart. It's why I was so angry about your betrothal to the young Malfoy. I've only ever wanted you to marry for love. It's all your mother wanted for you as well. I do understand that sometimes, fate has other plans, but I can't help but feel somewhat offended on your behalf."

Reaching over and hugging her father, Hermione felt tears falling down her cheeks. His arms clasped around her tightly, and he kissed the top of her head again tenderly. It had been some time since she'd allowed herself to grieve for the loss of her mother. It also saddened her greatly, her father had given up on finding someone to share his life with. She wasn't so selfish that she didn't want him to find some happiness too.

"I love you, Papa."

"As I do you, Angel. Now," Pierre pulled back and cleared his throat emotively, "if you have no other plans for next Sunday, we've been invited to brunch with Jacques and Bernadette. She did mention that you might want to bring your lovely suitor along."

Hermione rolled her eyes, but her lips lifted into an amused smirk. "She's such a romantic at heart. She was quite taken with Draco, and he surprisingly was very charming. I think she just wants to ogle him."

Pierre snickered at the thought. "Well, there might be a few others in attendance. You know how Bernadette gets with her brunches. Invite the young wizard if you feel it's warranted. I'll leave it to your discretion."

"Geez! Thanks ever so much, Papa."

Pierre tapped her nose playfully as he stood to leave. "I do what I can. Make sure you warn the boy that he'll be expected to bring flowers for the visit."

"I'll let him know."

Hermione watched her father leave with a fond shake of her head, before she grabbed a piece of parchment and proceeded to write out a quick missive.

Draco,

I've just been informed by my father that President Chirac and his wife Bernadette, whom you met at the ballet, are hosting a brunch Sunday next, at their summer estate in Corrèze. Bernadette specifically asked after you, and I should mention she's rather fond of flowers. I'm sure should you decide to accompany me, your choice of bouquet will be nothing less than exemplary.

Father and I usually drive, and it's about a five hour jaunt. However, if you would like to meet us there, we do have a floo. I'm happy to offer you access for the weekend.

Whilst in Pureblood circles dress would be somewhat formal, for Muggles it's a bit less so. I don't know what you have available, but if you need, I'd be happy to accompany you to Harrod's in London to offer suggestions. I can even arrange a personal shopper for the afternoon.

I look forward to your reply,

Hermione

Watching her owl leave with a soft sigh, Hermione decided to take a long, luxurious bubble bath and then find a good book to read.

It was a couple hours later at Malfoy Manor in Wiltshire, that found Draco sitting in his father's study, his mother having just left to go to bed when he heard a noise at the window. Watching his father closely, he was surprised to see Hermione's owl so soon after their day together. The scroll of parchment was handed over with a lifted eyebrow, but Draco ignored it in favor of reading the short note, his own eyebrows raised at the words, before his patented smirk made an appearance.

Lucius didn't even wait until he'd finished the letter, before clearing his throat.

"Miss Alphonse, I take it?"

"Yes."

"Didn't you spend the day with her and Mr. Potter today?"

Draco groaned inwardly, but nodded all the same. "I was invited to meet Aunt Andromeda and her grandson, Teddy."

The sneer on Lucius face wasn't entirely unexpected, however Draco wasn't going to play his father's games anymore.

"Please, don't." He demanded more than pleaded. "You know Mother has given her blessing, and if I'm to try and find common ground with my future wife-to-be, concessions need to be made."

Draco's gaze lifted to the portrait behind his father, when his grandfather Abraxas snorted out in disgust.

"Compromise!" Abraxas fumed indignantly, "Since when do Malfoy's associate with…"

"I'm going to stop you right there, Grandfather!" Draco bit back, "I didn't ask for this betrothal, and Salazar knows it hasn't been ideal, but we all know what kind of witch Hermione Alphonse is. Do you really think she won't make my life a living hell, if I don't find a way to meet her half way?"

Lucius sat back and scowled, but Abraxas just scoffed. "Pierre never did subscribe to the old ways, yet somehow that man managed to fool the masses."

Draco's brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean?"

Sighing, Lucius stood up and went over to his liquor cart to pour a stiff shot of firewhiskey, gesturing to his son, who nodded in thanks. Handing over the amber liquid, Lucius took a measure sip from his own crystal tumbler, before sitting back in his seat. Abraxas however, just rolled his eyes in exasperation.

"Pierre Alphonse likes to make believe he's a wizard of the people, but don't be fooled, Grandson. There's a reason the Dark Lord didn't venture into France overtly."

Draco turned to his father, but Lucius just shrugged. "Father mentioned something similar to me when your blood contract became an issue. Whilst I've never heard particulars spoken openly, I have heard whispers in certain circles."

"Such as?"

"Nothing too specific. The Dark Lord wasn't the kind of wizard to fear anyone, especially upon his return, but there was something there. Prior to his first fall, Pierre was approached by several of the Dark Lord's most faithful, your grandfather among them. However, Pierre made it quite clear he had no intention of joining the Dark Lord's ranks."

"How would've that even been possible?" Draco mused aloud, "No one refused the Dark Lord."

"Pierre did." Abraxas offered deeply, "What I do know, was the last time I spoke with Pierre about it, was not too long before his wife was killed. I knew the Dark Lord would return. Before his fall, Radalphous Lestrange was quite persistent in wooing Pierre to the cause. However, something transpired which shifted the Dark Lord's focus off the Alphonse family. When he fell, and the Potter lad became the purported instrument of his downfall, focus shifted within the ranks."

"In what way?" Draco asked, intrigued.

"It wasn't wise to speak openly of the Dark Lord, Draco." Lucius offered seriously, "Even when he was gaining power, it was mostly through subterfuge, whispers and innuendo. It wasn't until the prophecy about the Potter boy was heard, that the Dark Lord became more open in his plans. Most of his recruitment, was done at the behest of his most loyal followers. Those who were identified for recruitment, were done so carefully. Even amongst the Sacred 28, only his most avid followers bore his mark."

Draco sat back and stared at his elder's with incredulity. "Then why was I marked?"

"You know why, Draco." Lucius admonished, "It wasn't my choice by that point. The Dark Lord only recruited you for two reasons—first, due to my failure to obtain the prophecy and secondly, was because you were ideally placed in Hogwarts. He needed Dumbledore dead before he could go after Potter directly."

"I never understood why he didn't just go after Potter sooner," Draco admitted truthfully, "and I've always felt there was something more to why he didn't."

Lucius rubbed his chin thoughtfully, whilst Abraxas just stared off into space.

"And why didn't any of his followers go after Potter when he was a baby?"

Abraxas coughed out a surprised huff, causing Lucius to grimace. "Do you really believe any of those marked would've killed an innocent baby, Draco?"

"You're kidding, Father—right?"

Lucius didn't know what to say to that assertion, and glancing over his shoulder at his own father, Abraxas looked offended.

"You know, there's so many things that have never made sense to me," Draco ventured on, "why Potter was left with Muggles, when he had family in the magical world? Why Hermione was allowed to attend Hogwarts under an alias? Why Dumbledore allowed Potter to nearly get himself killed on more than one occasion?"

"Dumbledore," Abraxas barked, "meddlesome old fool he was, but he was powerful, Draco. Defeated Grindelwald back in the…" Lucius watched his father's eyes widen, whispering out Grindelwald's name with a tone of sudden comprehension.

"What?" Lucius demanded.

"It's nothing, Son."

Both Draco and Lucius just stared at their former head of house with matching expressions of disbelief, but no sooner could either one of them speak, than Abraxas left his portrait quickly.

"What do you suppose that was all about, Father?"

Lucius steepled his fingers in contemplation, but didn't answer as he was at a complete loss for words.

What would Gellert Grindelwald have to do with any of this?