Title: Hermione's Helping Hand

Halloween In Hogsmead

Word got around the school that the Malfoy's child, a boy, had been born without any powers. Everyone, but Hermione, found it funny. When Severus asked his wife why she wasn't laughing with the rest, she addressed her fears.

" This is another thing that Draco can attack me with," Hermione told him. " The idea that my children will have magic and his son will not."

" It's not your fault!" Severus stated.

Hermione gave him a stern look.

" I know, but I'm still scared."

She even told Molly about how she felt and Molly didn't blame her. They both knew that people like the Malfoy's considered their children going to Hogwarts and being in Slytherin to be the most important thing in their lives. Hermione, herself, wasn't so fond of this part of wizarding society.

" I wonder how long it will take Malfoy to realize that my children have magic."

" Not that long," Molly said.

Hermione continued to worry more about her children's safety as the weeks passed and finally those in the third year and up went to Hogsmead for Halloween. Hermione had convinced Severus into coming, telling him that he needed the break from work. Severus was more then happy to come.

" I always liked Hogsmead during Halloween!" Severus commented as they entered the village, which was still being repaired. " Just as long as James and his friends weren't trying to curse me."

" I thought that there were rules about the behavior of students?"

Severus snorted at that.

" Not with Potter, there wasn't!" he said. " As long as he won Quidditch matches that was fine with the school."

Hermione doubted that, but didn't dare speak her mind.

They ate their lunch in the Three Broomsticks, then did a little window-shopping, Hermione picking up several things that she needed. Hermione saw Ron with Romilda Vane, the girl that he had fallen for when he had eaten the enchanted chocolate that Romilda had given to Harry. Hermione had low opinion about her, but Ron seemed to enjoy her company.

" Trust me when I say this, Hermione. Fools fall in love!" Severus told her.

Hermione smiled at him.

" Well I guess that would include us."

Severus smiled back.

By the time it was sundown, the students were all returning to the castle. Hermione had such a wonderful time, that she didn't even notice Malfoy waiting on her when she and Severus got back. Once he saw them, he called them over.

" What is he doing out?" Malfoy asked.

" I invited him to come into Hogsmead," Hermione said, defending her husband.

" Not while I'm here!" he stated, venom in every word. " And if I see him out again, he'll be sent back to Azkaban."

He then turned and headed inside.

" Don't worry, in a week you'll be free," Hermione said. " Then he can't harass you anymore."

" I can't wait!" Severus said.

The Hogwarts Halloween feast didn't have Hermione and Severus present. The house elves had got them candies corn and different kinds of meats and pies. To Hermione, what's a feast when you're having more fun with those that you care for?