-Your Loss, My Loss, Our Loss-

by fluffies4ever

This story was written in honor of 2 that passed away in my family in 2021. Hermione Granger like many others had a loss in her family. Who is it? Please Read To Find Out And I Own Nothing But The Ideas. I also pass along my condolences to anyone mourning a loss!

-Your Loss, My Loss, Our Loss-

This story was written in loving memories of my 2 kittens that passed away in they were outdoor kitties, I still fed and helped take care of them. They'll ALWAYS be my children. 1st kitten passed in the middle of the year and the other just before the year ended.

"The bloody hell is wrong with you?! So, what if that pig with hair of yours just died! My family had just lost Fred and you don't see me going off the deep end!" Ron screamed at Hermione.

SLAP

The sound of Hermione's hand across one of her best friend's face echoed throughout Hogwarts' Great Hall gaining everyone's attention.

Everyone was wide eyed and "Gasped!" Not just from seeing the smartest witch of the century go from yelling witty retorts to giving a slap painful enough to look like a punch. But hearing Ron Weasley sound so detached and uncaring about one of his best friend's loss.

Hermione had been trying her best to stay strong while explaining what happened to her beloved kitten/ child. But after hearing and seeing Ron fly off the handle, she knew that kiss they shared in the Chamber Of Secrets was a fleeting moment. Of course, she knew he and his family was struggling. But who wasn't? He isn't the only one. This war had cost so many lives that didn't deserve to be cut short. Yet here many of us stand, living but ½ alive.

By now, everyone present was watching and muttering about what they'd just witnessed between 2 out of the 3 people that make up the Golden Trio of Gryffindor.

Hermione took a moment to close her eyes and released a shuttered sigh. She decided to let the droplets of salty water flow from her eyes and down her face. After letting out a dejected breath did, she decide to finally reopen her eyes. She saw Ronald holding his face while he looked at her in annoyance and hostility.

A look of pity flashed in her earthy brown orbs as she watched the person, she'd originally thought of spending her life with. She couldn't bare see Ronald's face right now and Harry was nowhere to be seen. The Weasley family was not far from them, some looking disappointed in their son while others looked sad and apologetic for who they considered as their adopted daughter. Even George looked upsettingly disappointed at his younger brother.

Hermione thought to herself, 'It's best I just end things with Ron now. I might be acting rashly and unfair to him. But if his reaction is any indication of how he'll act or treat me in our future anytime I need him... It's probably best if we just remain friends. Hopefully in the future, he'll forgive me for slapping him and so will I for his thoughtless comments.'

She turned around with her back facing him. Before making her exit, she said, "Ronald. I know you and your family are grieving. We all are. I'm sorry if you think I don't take consideration of your feelings. But honestly, that doesn't mean I deserve your hurtful words. You may not care about my loss, but I've always cared about yours and everyone I've ever loved. Honestly all I needed was comfort from you... But I should have known better than to seek it from someone with the emotional range of a teaspoon. Thank you for finally returning the emotions I've felt for you in the Chamber Of Secrets. But let's face it. We never made us being together official, plus we're very different people. It has nothing to do with 'blood statis' or 'intellect'. All I'm saying is, if we were together, we'd fight constantly. We're better off as friends. Not to mention we have absolutely nothing in common. If you're fine with just being friends, brilliant. And if not, I still wish you the best in life. Take care of yourself and your family. Goodbye Ronald Bilius Weasley."

Once those words were out in the open, she dashed away. Of course, she heard him yelling her name, but she refused to stop running. The moment she ran out of Hogwarts' entrance, she felt someone grasp her hand tightly but gently. She tensed for a moment, until her brown misty eyes connected with Harry's confused and worried Emerald orbs. She tried to hang her head to avoid eye contact, but his calloused fingers halted her effort.

Harry didn't know what happened to make Hermione look so distraught. But after seeing one of his best friends look so torn, he figured it had something to do with Ron or something personal. He couldn't stand seeing her look so broken. Even though it was expected. After all, everyone just barely survived a war and lost so many loved ones in the process. So, without wasting more time, he asked, "Mione. What happened? Who made you cry? Please, talk to me. You know I'll always be here for you."

Hermione heard the desperation in Harry's voice. She knew if there's anyone, she'd be able to confide in, it'll always be him. It showed when Ron abandoned them loads of times yet not the person standing right in front of her. But right as she was about to open her mouth to explain, the heart wrenching words of her maybe ex best friend halted her efforts. And along with the memory, her eyes widened. The reaction didn't go unnoticed by Harry or a certain platinum blonde haired Slytherin standing behind her.

Pain flashed through her eyes before she cleared her throat to say, "I, I can't... I'm sorry Harry. I just can't tell you yet."

By now, both boys knew something was off. They knew from different experiences that she never had trouble correcting or communicating with others. And the fact that she couldn't say what was troubling her was alarming.

Malfoy was just about open his mouth to let his presence be known until they heard Ron yell, "Get Back Here Hermione!"

After hearing his voice, the girl in question couldn't help but jump in fear before putting a brave face mask on. She looked at Harry apologetically before saying, "I'm so sorry. I must go. But I promise I'll explain myself the next time we meet. I'll owl you later. Bye Harry."

And with that, she apparated with a "Pop!" But not before someone grabbed onto her.

In another area there was another "Pop!" Where Hemione landed. She felt someone grab unto her. So, she looked behind her and felt astonished. Never in a lifetime did she expect Malfoy to have followed her.

He no longer held onto her. Instead, he was now laying on the floor groaning in pain. After the telltale sign of blood on the floor, she noticed he got injured from following her. Without a second thought, she pulled out her wand and got straight to work healing him. She noticed how silent it suddenly became so she paused when she was confident, he wasn't bleeding out profusely anymore. The sight of him sleeping stunned her. In all her years knowing him, never did he look so peaceful. She shook off the thought and finished healing him.

Once he was all patched up, she levitated him onto her bed and tucked him in. She walked away briefly to get a cup of cold water from her adjoining bathroom to leave on the table next to him. Since he lost a lot of blood from following her. Lastly, she left a note next to his water explaining what happened.

Nodding in satisfaction, she walked out of her room and into her parent's old room to get some rest. Before heading to bed, she took a quick shower and changed into some clean clothes. Happy to feel clean after so long. She climbed into bed while tucking herself in. The moment her head hit the pillows she was out like a light bulb.

The next morning, Hermione woke up startled before the sun rose. A habit she obtained while on the run. She looked around herself and sighed with relief to be in her old home and in her parent's old room. Now she had to remind herself that the war was over, and they had won. Her relief became saddened after remembering the previous days occurrence.

She tried to push the thought away for now as she got ready to face the day. After stretching and getting out of bed, she washed her face and got dressed. Once finished, she left her parent's room to check on her guest. Opening her door slightly, she saw he was still asleep. She gave a small smile while closing the door.

After entering the kitchen, she froze in her step. Remembering there was nothing to make or eat. She turned around and walked out of her house, intending to buy a small number of groceries. Luckily for her, the store was just around the corner of her home. After buying everything necessary, she make a quick trip back to start cooking.

Halfway through making food, she heard someone say, "Wow it smells delicious in here Granger. I didn't know you knew how to cook."

She didn't need to turn around to know who said that. So, while adding in spices, she responded, "It's not like we had taken time to get to know each other in any way. We were enemies the whole time in Hogwarts. Correct? And thank you for refraining yourself from addressing me as Mudblood by the way."

"I'm sorry." Was not the response Hermione was expecting to hear from Malfoy of all people. She turned around wide eyed and speechless. With that, he continued to speak. "I was right behind you while you talked with Potter. He and I had just finished talking before you came our way. I had just finished apologizing to him and he accepted my apology. We agreed to start over with a clean sleight and shook on it. I was going to apologize to you next but with how distraught you looked, it didn't feel like the right time. But I truly am sorry for all the pain and trouble I've caused you. I know I can't take anything back. But if you are willing to give me a chance. Can we possibly start over?"

Silver eyes stared into her brown orbs as she checked for any indication of lies and deceit. She became rather good at telling if someone was being honest with her. But all she saw was pain mixed with regret, hope, and sincerity. She gave a small smile and nodded in agreement. With that, he gave a genuine smile that almost stopped her brain from functioning. In all the years of knowing him, she never thought he could show these kinds of emotions. "Thank you, Granger-."

"Hermione." Malfoy looked at her in shock before she continued. "Please call me Hermione. If we're going to become friends in the future, we might as well start with our names. Should we not?"

Once she lowered the flames on the stove so the food could simmer and not burn as she turned back to him. Making her way over to him, she stretched her hand out as a sign of friendship. He looked at her extended hand then her face lite with joy. He decided to pull her in for a hug instead which stunned her greatly. "Thank you, Hermione. For everything. If that's the case, please call me Draco."

After the shock ebbed away, she returned his embrace. Once they released each other, a smile was plastered on their faces in joy and relief. She returned to the stove and finished the meal they were about to enjoy. Draco put his cup down onto the table before deciding to ask, "Is there anything I can help with?"

Once she finished tasting the sauce to make sure it wasn't too salty or sweet, she turned to him and answered, "Yes. Do you mind taking out the paper plates and wooden utensils from that plastic bag near you?"

He looked at her in confusion since he didn't know what some of those words meant. She smiled in understanding and explained what each word were. After understanding, Draco got to work on setting the table. And right as he finished, the meal was ready to be served.

Hermione asked, "Draco. Do you mind passing me your plate?" He nodded and handed it over to her. She scooped up his portion of the food and handed it back to him. He grabbed his food and with his other hand, he gave her plate. She thanked him and began serving herself then sat down with him.

She waited for him in anticipation to take the first bite. And once he did, he closed his eyes and smiled while chewing. Once he swallowed, he exclaimed, "Wow! This is delicious! What's it called?!"

After smiling brightly and chuckling, she answered, "It's call Chicken/ Pork/ and Beef Adobo with Rice. It's a dish severed in the Philippines. One of my dearest friends is Filipina. Every time she visits, she brings this dish because it's my favorite. And before you ask, no I'm not allowed to tell anyone her recipe. She only told me because we are basically sisters in all but blood. Not to mention we've known each other since really young."

Draco nodded in understanding while enjoying his meal. He then asked, "Hermione. If it's not too much trouble, could you tell me what made you so sad yesterday?"

Hermione was in the middle of chewing when she heard his question. She paused for a moment before finishing her bite. She looked at him across from her and said, "I want to open up to you. But the pain is too fresh to talk about. I'm sorry-."

"Please don't apologize. It's hard to talk about certain things. Especially if it's personal. I for one am not the best with communicating. But if you want, I can tell you some things that are personal to me and I'll wait till you're ready to share your stories."

Hermione didn't know what to say. She never thought Draco was this understanding. She knew there was a lot she didn't know about him. So, instead of saying a word, she smiled while nodding. Giving Draco the okay to tell her about himself. What they didn't know, was another person was arrived with a "Pop!" upstairs and made it in time to hear Draco talk.

Relief swept over Draco as he began. "I grew up as an only child and in a very sheltered environment. Though my parents showered me with gifts, I felt empty. They rarely showed me any positive emotions. All they showed were their expectations. Both were very strict of what I can and can't do or who I'm allowed to talk to. No matter what I did, I never received their approval. It felt like I was constantly a disappointment to them no matter what I did. All I was good for was making connections with other pureblood kids, getting exceptional marks in school, and having my future planned out for me. If I ever disappointed my parents, they let Bellatrix discipline me or father would do it himself. It was easier to shut off my emotions as time went by. In all honesty, I was very jealous of many others. You might see me as a spoiled prat. Which I was but that was not even the real me. The road paved for me was also very lonely and negative. I'm sorry my poor influences and teachings had hurt you and so many-."

Hermione was saddened hearing his voice break but was surprised to see Harry rush over to hug him. She thought, 'What the... Where did Harry come from?'

But she didn't worry about it so long as it wasn't Ronald. After getting up from her chair, she made her way over to join the group hug. They all just stayed in that position until Draco felt better.

Once the platinum blonde felt better, they all let go of each other. Harry was first to speak, "Sorry about interrupting. I apparated upstairs before Draco started talking. I'm not sure if you knew Mione but we are now working towards being friends." After she nodded, he continued, "I told Ron about mine and his new friendship and unfortunately, he dissolved our friendship while calling me a traitor. His family was more understanding after I explained to them that he saved us in his family's basement/ dungeon." He turned directly to Hermione while stating, "Looks like you and I are the remainder of the 'Golder Trio.' Oh, and by the way, Ginny is looking for you. You might want to owl her once you're feeling better."

Hermione nodded while saying, "Thank you Harry. I will go to her soon so don't worry. Yeah, but in all honesty, Ronald was always more flippant on staying loyal... No way would he ever end up in Hufflepuff." Everyone laughed at the last part and agreed whole heartedly. She ended with saying, "I'm surprised that you would run up and hug Draco like that since you both just recently became friends that is."

Both boys blushed while avoiding each other's eyes. Hermione looked at them suspiciously until a lightbulb went off in her head. She cleared her throat and said, "Are you 2 maybe trying to be more than friends?"

Harry and Draco looked at each other than nodded and looked at Hermione with a smile. The shock on her face didn't last long as she squealed while jumping on them. She kept congratulating them while hugging them as they chuckled jumped along with her, glad she accepts them and their decision.

Once everyone calmed down, Harry smelled Hermione's food and his stomach rumbled. He blushed in embarrassment and held his stomach. The other 2 heard and Hermione laughed while going to serve her best friend some Adobo and Rice, thankful it was still warm.

Draco dragged Harry into the kitchen and to a chair for him to sit down. He then went over to Hermione and took over in serving the food. She shook her head in jokingly and went to get them something to drink.

When all 3 sat back down, Hermione raised her cup and said, "A toast! To new beginnings, cheers!"

All their cups met in the middle then the boys started to taste their drinks while she watched to see their reactions. Harry and Draco looked wide-eyed after drinking and said, "Yum! What is this?!"

Hermione laughed and said, "Jinx! You both owe me later. And it's called Horchata. Since you both know of my childhood Filipina friend now, I can explain that she also taught me how to make this. It's a Mexican drink. That takes time and patience to make."

Harry beamed at his best friends with pride, knowing she excels in pretty much anything. While Draco gave her a look of understanding and respect.

Once everyone ate their fill and finished their drinks, they disposed their trash properly. Harry looked around stunned. He couldn't help but ask, "Mione, we've been on the run for so long... How do you still have electricity and everything running?"

Before answering Harry's question, Hermione explained to Draco about how muggle houses work including electricity. The moment he understood Hermione's explanations, he said, "Thank you for always explaining things to me without needing to say anything, it helps a lot."

"No problem, Draco. Harry and I had to learn about the world of magic on our own so I'm happy to help so people don't have to struggle as much as me." Hermione responded kindly.

Draco had a look of sadness mixed with admiration. He knew she was smart. But to have no one before Hogwarts really put them in a disadvantage. And here, they are. Hermione proving her worth to the magical community. And Harry. Surviving after being thrown into a world with a prophecy he didn't know about but was dragged into anyways while losing his parents. He gave them a hug and thought, 'I really misjudged them both. But we were all immature as children. I have a long way to go in life but I'm thankful to have been forgiven. Healing will take a while but with time and progress, it'll all fall into place.'

After the group hug, they smiled at each other while Hermione said, "In answer to your question Harry, our family home has been fully paid off and belongs to us. Before sending my parents away to Australia, I obliviated their memories so they couldn't be connected to me. I made sure to continue paying the bills on my personal account. Just in case I return alive. If I died, money would run out eventually so I'm not too worried. And Draco, I'll explain everything when I have time."

Harry nodded in understanding and sadness while Draco was confused but agreed to what she said.

Before leaving the kitchen, Harry asked, "Hey Mione. Do you still have some of my clothes in your extendable bag?"

"Yeah, they're in my parent room that I stay in now. Why?" Hermione responded.

Emerald eyes beamed happily before saying, "Draco is still wearing his clothes from the war. Give him some of mine would you."

She smiled and agreed. The trio made their way back to her current room. She went into her bag and pulled out Harry's clean clothes. After handing it to Draco, she said, "You can change in the bathroom connected to this room. Go ahead and take a shower first then you can put on the clothes."

Draco accepted the clothes and went on his way to freshen up. This left time for the 2 best friends to hang out without saying a word, just relaxing.

20 minutes later, Draco reappeared back. Feeling fresher than ever. He thanked them both and started to relax himself. Harry turned to the other male in the room and asked, "Draco since you opened up. Would you like to know my past?"

Silver eyes lit up like lights on Christmas and that was Harry's cue to start explaining. "I don't remember much about my parents. Just that they died for me. I believed it was my fault for so long. I blamed myself constantly and that's why I let my aunt, uncle, and cousin bully me. Besides the fact that they took me in as a baby... Those 3 made my life a living Hell. I slept under the stairs in a cupboard for many years and barely had food or anything while being their personal slave. I was thankful to even be alive right now. Someone I'll always be grateful for is Hagrid when he found and saved me. After explaining a lot when he took me to shop for my things at Diagon Alley, I felt much better. But even though I looked okay on the outside, I still had a lot of internal scars that not many know or see. Even during Hogwarts..."

He turned his attention to Draco and said, "When you and many others saw me as 'The Famous Boy Who Lived.' What I've been doing all my life was merely surviving. I'm sorry for turning your handshake down in 1st year but I had a feeling you weren't a good influence at the time. But you've had a painful journey yourself and I'm sorry for everything you've gone through. I am happy you are now free to make your own choices now. Now that the world is no longer in jeopardy, we have a chance to start over and become better."

Draco started tearing up, so Harry decided to hold his hand in comfort. Allowing him to cry as much as he needs. Hermione put her arms around him while her other hand fished out a clean handkerchief from her pocket to give the platinum blonde. While shuddering, Draco gave a nod of thanks and accepted the gift from Hermione. She gave a sad smile while staying by his side.

After being all cried out, Hermione said, "If all of you are being brave to talk about what you've been through... I should do the same. Yesterday during the war, I thought I was going to die for sure. I was too busy and preoccupied protecting a group of unarmed 1st years that got caught in the crossfire. And right as I defeated the threat to them, I heard Ginny yell, "NO, MIONE!"

Tears started pouring down her eyes but she kept talking. "I saw it happening in slow motion. One minute I heard the killing curse being thrown my way and right before it hit me, Crookshanks jumped in the way... I saw my familiar and child die right before my eyes."

By now, Hermione was sobbing in grief and pain. Her body shuddered, wracked with the guilt of losing a loved one. Harry and Draco wasted no time in holding their friend and comforting her.

Silver eyes flashed in anger as he said, "Who killed your child!? I will avenge him for you!"

Emerald orbs also flashed in rage while stating, "I'll join you Draco. So, Hermione... Who? Did? It?"

The girl in question looked at the 2 and said, "Don't worry. Ginny and Mrs. Weasley already took care of her."

She then looked at the scar on her arm. Causing the boy's eyes to follow her line of vision then widen in understanding. Draco grinded his teeth while thinking, 'Damn you Bellatrix! I hate my family, they caused so much agony... I can't believe I've even caused this kind of pain to another through their brainwashing. May all of you evil people rot in Azkaban and Hell.'

He was shocked out of his thoughts when Hermione put her hand upon his shoulder. She gave him a teary smile, while he looked at her speechless.

She sighed and said, "Thank you both for the love you've shown me. But there's more. Before my child died, Ronald kissed me in the Chamber Of Secrets. I still had a small crush on him so I decided to see where things may go. We never made anything official though. But after the war was over, I saw Crookshank's lifeless body in the Great Hall and I lost it. I ran over to Ronald and tried my best to explain and he yelled at me. Saying, "The bloody hell is wrong with you?! So, what if that pig with hair of yours just died! My family had just lost Fred and you don't see me going off the deep end!"

Hermione saw unadulterated anger seep out of the boys next to her, so she quickly ended with, "I slapped and ended things with him. That's why you saw me look so hurt when I ran out." She turned her attention to her best friend and said, "I'm sorry I couldn't tell you Harry. I know you'd always be there for me. But the trauma I just experienced was just too much and too fresh... The words got caught in my mind and throat. Please forgive me-."

She was shocked to be suddenly enveloped into a comforting embrace by Harry then Draco. Then without warning, tears started to consume her once again and she sobbed uncontrollably in the safest environment she's felt in so long. Burying her head in their shoulders, she wept all the pain that was gripping at her soul. Memories of all the times she spent with her child arose. From the 1st moment she saw him to seeing his lifeless body. Everything caused her to hurt so much more. All the emotions made her feel raw and vulnerable. But she didn't mind because she knew these two are her rocks. She thought to herself, 'You're never the same after experiencing a very painful death.'

Harry handed her a tissue and she accepted the offering. She blew her nose while each boy wiped the tears from her eyes. A chuckle escaped her lips as they did that. She knew the pain will never go away. But she had to do her best to continue forward too. After shuttering, she hugged them both tightly and they had another group hug.

Hermione was 1st to release them while saying, "Thank you both for everything! I'll need to live with the pain that will leave and return as it pleases. But at least I know I have a great support team by my side."

Draco and Harry beamed at her. Each looping an arm around her shoulder while saying, "You know it!"

The trio laughed loudly at how close they've become in just 1 to 2 days. They felt hopeful for their future now. Knowing they have each other to rely on. Once all laughter ceased, Draco asked, "Either of you fancy going to Hogwarts to help with the clean up?"

Harry and Hermione gave a nod in agreement. So, without delay, the trio apparated with a "Pop!" But not before Hermione grabbed her extendable bag.

They reappeared with another "Pop!" Inside the Great Hall of Hogwarts. They heard someone yell, "Mione!"

She turned towards the voice and was surprised to find a kitten jump at her. With quick reflexes, she caught the feline in her arms while still feeling stunned. Now that her attention was consumed by the cutie in her arms, she didn't anticipate the impact heading her way. With an "Oomph!" She looked over to see Ginny giving her a tight hug. They smiled at each other while a pair of silver and emerald eyes look adoringly at them then to each other.

Ginny dethatched herself and said, "Thank Gryffindor you came back! I thought you left and was never going to return..."

Her eyes grew misty after stating that. Hermione felt a twinge of guilt from hearing those words leave her best girlfriend's mouth. So, she put the new kitten down and pulled Ginny by the shoulders into a loving embrace while saying, "I'm so sorry I put you through that. It would never be my 1st choice to put doubt into your mind. You mean so much to me-."

Hermione was cut off from speaking after feeling Ginny's lips upon hers. She blushed then closed her eyes to enjoy their moment. While Draco and Harry held each other. Smiling happily for their friend's newfound happiness. None of them noticed a crowd of people was surrounding the 4.

The moment was short lived however, when they heard someone yell, "Hermione!"

Ginny and Hermione broke from the kiss while Harry and Draco let go of each other. The 4 of them noticed a lot of people around them. But the crowd made a path after seeing Ronald running their way. The kitten became frightened and jumped back into Hermione's hands, seeking comfort. She held onto the cutie while thinking, 'I need to question Gin about the kitten later.'

Before Ronald could reach her. Draco, Harry, and Ginny stood in front of Hermione with glares in their eyes. The trio was ready to fight him if he wanted to cause trouble.

Ronald put the brakes on his running when he saw the anger in each of their eyes. He froze not knowing what to do or go about this. Until he heard Hermione sigh and say, "It's okay, I can take care of him myself."

She pushed her way through but stopped in front of Gin. After handing the new kitten over to her, she looked him dead in the eyes and said, "Well... You called for me and here I am. So, what do you want Ronald?"

The carrot top boy looked at her noticed her stance. Arms crossed, eyes looking like they could kill, and a foot tapping impatiently. He gulped in fear before saying, "I'm sorry I was rude to you. But do you have the leftovers that you cooked last night...?"

Hermione cocked her eyebrow at him before saying, "Yes I do have it. Why? And why were you so crossed and inconsiderate yesterday?"

Ronald rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly while looking uncomfortable. He sighed before admitting, "Honestly... I was upset from Fred's death and had been starving. The moment you walked over, I just lost it. I'm sorry I was hangry and took everything out on you. It was honestly never my intention I swear. I explained it to my family even. They're still mad at me and I can't blame them. After I had something to eat, I felt better. But I know I've done wrong to you. You're right I do have the emotional range of a teaspoon. But I hope we can remain friends... If you forgive me?"

He had the saddest pair of blue eyes after saying all that. Everyone around was silent and holding their breaths. No one knew what was going to happen.

Hermione stared at him for a while with an impassive expression after hearing everything. She didn't know what to do or say. Her eyes broke contact with the person she was mad at when she heard someone fall. After turning around, she was stunned to see Draco on the floor. Before she moved a step, the platinum boy stated, "Seriously!? You became insensitive just because of FOOD! Wow... You really are a black hole Weasley!"

Ronald's face grew red. Not just because of the insult from someone he dislikes, but because Hermione and Ginny started laughing at him right after. Followed by everyone else in the Great Hall. He knew no one was going to let him forget this as long as he lived.

By now, Hermione had tears in her eyes from all the laughter. She wiped it away and sighed. She looked then thought, 'He may never change...'

But she made her decision. After squaring her shoulders, she hardened her eyes, faced him and said, "Ronald Weasley! That May Be The Most Stupid Reason You've EVER Given In All My Years Of Knowing You! Yet... I don't wish to hate or spite you forever. So, I'll only forgive and be your friend if you accept Draco in our life. Because unlike you, Draco didn't abandon us as much as you. So the ball is in your court now, either take the deal or leave."

The anticipation was putting everyone on edge. Ronald looked from Hermione's expectant face to his sister Ginny, who was giving him a look that promises a demand for explanation and pain when they got home. Ending with his first friend on the Hogwarts Express their 1st year Harry and Malfoy, his 1st enemy since they waited outside on that same night while they were about to be sorted. He started walking over to the platinum blonde on the floor and everyone watched him carefully.

Many thought, 'Oh no, is he going to attack him?'

'They are about to fight...'

'Is a teacher going to step in?'

'I can't believe they might get into a row right after we barely survived!'

George Weasley kept watching his younger brother from a distance. And whispered, "If Ickle Ronnikins and Malfoy doesn't become friends, I'll say you're the better twin alive. Deal?"

Right next to him was the spirit of Fred grinning like a Chesire Cat. Eyes gleaming with mischief as always. And standing next to him are James and Lily Potter, Sirius Black, Remus and Tonks Lupin, Severus Snape, Dumbledore, and Crookshanks. Some spirits trying hard not to laugh while others rolled their eyes at their childish antics. Fred then replied, "You're on."

Ron now stood right in front of Draco. Everybody watched but Hermione and Harry was ready to jump in if necessary. After a sigh, Ron reached out a hand to help Draco up while looking away shocking many present. He then said, "I may not be able to forgive you right away..." After a quick pause, he turned to look at him and ended with, "But I'm willing to work on it if you are."

Draco eyes looked directly to his hand then landed on his face. He smirked and said, "You bet."

After accepting the help up, the whole Hall erupted in cheers and congratulations. Harry, Ginny, and Hermione rushed over to Draco and Ronald's side. A giant group hug couldn't be helped between the 5.

Ron turned to Harry and Hermione while asking, "Are we good, am I now forgiven by you both?" The duo grinned and said, "Yes to both." In unison. Causing Ron to exclaim, "Jinx! You both owe me now!"

Everyone laughed at his childish and now lax attitude.

A little further away, George finally looked at his twin brother and said, "Looks like I win this round."

But Fred still had a grin upon his face. His twin was about to speak up when he finally said, "Correction. I still win because you said 'better twin Alive. I am currently dead. In short I still win!"

The Marauders laughed at the two but every spirit there saw the pain flash through George's eyes before he closed them and said, "Oh you got me there."

While laughing like Fred was. George re-opened his eyes, the pained look vanished. He looked to the spirits and put his pointer finger to his lips as a sign to keep what they saw to themselves. Everyone nodded in agreement before disappearing.

Fred finally stopped laughing and looked at his brother. He sighed and asked, "So. I'll see you around then?"

George grinned while responding, "You bet! Can't get rid of me that easily my twin."

Fred winked then turned around to wave and with that, he left as fast as he came. George raised an eyebrow then looked over to see that his family had gathered with Hermione and her group. Everyone had tears in their eyes. Seeing those they love and lost. The lone twin made his way to the group, and everyone reached out their hands to hug him and comfort each other.

Once everyone was calm again, they all decided to go their own way to start the cleaning of Hogwarts. But not before Hermione handed Ronald his food from the previous day.

Ginny was about to walk away when Hermione held her hand. She turned around and smiled at her best friend who she hoped down the road, could be officially more than that. She was about to speak when Hermione ask, "Gin. I don't understand... Where did this kitten come from?"

They both looked to the ground to see said kitty curled up in a ball asleep. Understanding Hermione's question, Ginny replied, "After I heard what happened, I quickly rushed off to find another kitten for you."

"But it's too soon Ginny. I'm still grieving." Hermione said with misty eyes hoping Gin understood her point of view.

After hearing the response, Ginny pouted and said with sad kitten eyes, "Awww but Mione. This cutie needs a home. I found her stuck in a tree. After rescuing her, I promised she'd have a good home and family. Pleeeeeeeeeeeeease!"

Hermione was about to retort but at that moment, she looked over Ginny's shoulder and saw a faint trace of what looked like Crookshanks. The wispy spirit gave a nod of recognition and vanished. Tears sprouted in her eyes as she asked, "What will we name her Gin?"

Ginny looked at her confused and asked, "We?"

Rolling her eyes, Hermione wiped her tears away and stated, "Yes. You found her after all. And promised a good home and family. It would be bad if we left her to fend for herself. Plus, if you don't mind, I'd like to ask if you'd consider moving in and taking care of her with me? After your parents and family agree of course."

Speechless with her mouth wide open was her initial expression until what she heard sunk in. Her mouth contorted into a blooming smile. After squealing, Ginny jumped and hugged Hermione while stating, "Well They BETTER Agree! Because, I'd Be Honored To Move In And Raise Her With You! I Love You After All."

Hermione laughed happily and returned the loving embrace. She then whispered into Gin's hair, "Thank you. And I love you too."