A/N: It's been a while. Sorry. I'm trying to make the chapters for this story consistently longer than what I've previously written but it does take longer to write, which means more time between updates. I hope you all enjoy this chapter as much as I enjoyed writing it because it was an absolute joy. I'm not sure when the next update will be, but I'll bring it to you as soon as I possibly can.
Stay safe!
Having Bellatrix as the new DADA professor was not as awkward as Draco and Hermione had thought. That wasn't to say that it was normal. It certainly wasn't. Hermione found herself slipping into old memories as Bellatrix taught, memories of her teaching the dark-haired witch the things she was teaching them. Then she would snap back into reality when Draco would nudge her with his sharp elbows, only to be met with the realization that she had no idea what was going on. Thankfully, it seemed Bellatrix understood what was causing her to be so unfocused in the class. A gentle, half-hearted scolding was all she ever got when it happened. Draco's issue was remembering to maintain the level of formality that was expected at school, calling her "Auntie Bella" on multiple occasions.
"That's all for today," Bellatrix said, dismissing her students, "Miss Granger, please stay."
Hermione felt her ears turn pink as she heard several whispers speculating the reason she was asked to say. Draco sent her an encouraging look as he left, and she sent him a strained smile. Bellatrix maintained her position at the front of the class until the door closed behind the last student. She sat in the chair Draco had previously been occupying.
"How are you doing with the memories?" she asked gently.
Hermione stared at the desk, shaking her head slightly. "I keep falling into them every time you begin teaching something. I want to pay attention, I really do."
"I'm not mad, Hermione," Bellatrix assured her.
"I just," Hermione flexed her hands, focused intently on them, "I can't control it. I can't stop it, no matter how hard I try. It isn't just here, it happens with other memories, too. Sometimes it just hits me and before I know it someone is bringing me back to the present."
"And the dreams?" she asked, her eyes darting over Hermione's partial profile.
Hermione heaved a hefty sigh. "Mostly they're fine. Sometimes, though, sometimes they're really bad."
"I'm sorry. Maybe I should have waited to unlock the memories-"
"No." Hermione shook her head hard, tilting it to look up at Bellatrix. "I asked you to. I just need to focus more."
"Don't force it. There's a reason it's happening when it does." Bellatrix placed a hand on Hermione's shoulder, hoping the touch was reassuring.
"Everything was okay when we were still on holiday, but now that I'm back at Hogwarts, it's like," she paused, looking back down at the desk, "It's like I don't know who I am anymore."
"Perhaps you're becoming who you were always meant to be," Bellatrix said thoughtfully.
Hermione groaned, leaning her head onto the table. "I don't know what to do."
"I wish I had answers for you." Bellatrix rubbed small circles in Hermione's back, trying to get her to release some of the tension she was holding. "But I do have an idea. I'll be in the Room of Requirement at midnight. If you feel ready, meet me there."
Hermione just nodded, mentally collecting herself to continue her day. She supposed she could go hole up in the library until dinner, but even that wasn't as tempting as usual. It was still too cold outside to sit there for the next few hours and she really didn't want to go to the Common Room and risk running into Harry and Ron, who still hadn't apologized. She supposed she was making it difficult for them to even have the opportunity, but she didn't even feel like they were trying. Bellatrix continued to sit next to Hermione quietly, still rubbing circles in her back. Finally, Hermione picked her head off the table.
"Thanks, Bella," she said, "Hopefully I'll feel more like myself soon."
Bellatrix pulled her hand away. "I'll always be here for you."
Before Hermione could stop herself, she flung her arms around Bellatrix's shoulders and whispered, "I appreciate you so much."
Bellatrix barely had time to return the hug when Hermione pulled away, grabbing her bag and awkwardly waving goodbye as she left. Draco was leaning against the wall outside the classroom waiting for Hermione, and she couldn't describe the relief she felt when she saw him casually observing passing students. He offered her a small smile as he threw his arm over her shoulder and fell into step with her. He didn't say anything, giving her the chance to collect her thoughts and offering companionship as she did.
They gravitated to the Black Lake as Hermione always did when she had too much on her mind and didn't know what to do about it. The ground was hard underfoot, but the cold air felt nice for the moment and had the added effect of driving almost everyone inside. Hermione looked out over the calm water, only now understanding that the reason she always found herself here was that it was where she and Bellatrix had spent the most time.
"This is harder than I thought it would be," she finally said, startling Draco with her sudden confession.
He cast a warming charm over himself as he responded, "I can't even begin to imagine how difficult it must be. I'm sorry, this wouldn't be happening if I hadn't invited you to stay for Christmas."
Hermione rolled her eyes, sending Draco an incredulous look. "You must be joking. Draco, I loved spending Christmas with you and your family. I wouldn't trade it for anything. I made the decision to know, not you."
Draco shuffled his feet against the frozen ground. "I suppose."
She rolled her eyes again, pulling his elbow to get him to walk with her. "I don't want you to blame yourself for my choices, Draco. I'm serious. You didn't force any of this on me. It's not all bad. I know so much more magic than I used to and I know that things could be worse. Sure, this isn't ideal, but it's better than the alternative."
"I am glad we were able to be friends. I can't imagine how much of a prick I was." Draco had to admit that he did feel less guilty about Hermione's circumstances.
"I don't have to imagine." Hermione sent him a large grin, and neither of them could keep from descending into a fit of laughter.
Even though her memories weren't all great, Hermione supposed she felt much more complete with them. She looked up at the school's profile, starting to feel the chill that drove most people inside. Draco caught her gaze, nudging her to start walking so they could head to the Great Hall. He let her thoughts wander in silence, nudging her again when they entered the Great Hall so she would pay attention. She shot him a grateful smile as they parted, each of them heading to their own tables. Hermione inwardly groaned when she saw Harry and Ron there and hoped they were too preoccupied to notice her.
Thankfully, luck was on her side. A spot at the end of the table, closest to the doors was open. Hermione quickly claimed it, drawing a few half-hearted greetings from her housemates that she returned with the same energy. Her house wasn't exactly a fan of her, and she wasn't exactly a fan of them. It was strange to think that she felt more at home when she had been in Slytherin, even though it wasn't exactly her. Still, she got along with Draco better than she did with Harry and Ron, and even some of the other Slytherins had begun greeting her in the corridors. Aside from a few exceptions, she wasn't well-liked. Most of her housemates still considered her to be an insufferable know-it-all and only tolerated her because she helped keep them in the lead for House Cup.
Hermione poked her head out of the Fat Lady's portrait hole, looking left and right before tiptoeing into the corridor. She gently swung the portrait back to the wall, holding her breath until she was certain she was still soundly asleep. Hermione wasn't stupid enough to think she could make it to the Room of Requirement without being caught by someone, and not even Bellatrix could get her out of trouble if the wrong person found her. As she snuck to the stairs, a memory struck her suddenly and she pressed herself into the shadows until it passed. Her brow furrowed. She was certain she knew a spell that would keep anyone from noticing her, one more effective than a simple notice-me-not.
"It's about the intention," she whispered suddenly, quickly glancing in every direction to make sure no one was around to hear.
Heaving a relieved sigh, Hermione allowed her intention to disguise her, weaving together the spell she had often used to sneak through the castle with Bellatrix. With a smile and a sense of victory, Hermione continued on to the seventh floor, moving faster now that she was sure no one would spot her unless she ran right into them. It was oddly quiet in the corridors but Hermione supposed that the castle was too large for every place to be constantly monitored. She grew more nervous as she approached the Room of Requirement. She trusted Bellatrix but she was worried that whatever the older witch had in mind wouldn't work and she would still be stuck falling into memories.
The door appeared in front of Hermione and she took a deep breath before pushing it open. Bellatrix was already waiting for her, lying on her back staring up at the ceiling. When the door slammed shut, she turned to look at her, smiling softly.
"Come here," she whispered, patting the spot next to her and continuing once Hermione was mirroring her position, "Do you remember when we would come here?"
Hermione nodded. "I taught you and Andy everything I knew."
"We taught Narcissa everything you taught us when she started at Hogwarts." Bellatrix turned her head to Hermione.
"This is where it all began," Hermione mumbled, staring up at the ceiling.
Bellatrix nodded. "In a manner of speaking, yes. Are you able to call up memories at will?"
Hermione let her head fall to the side so she could look at Bellatrix, biting her lip and shaking her head. "I know that they're in my head and I have a general sense of everything but not really anything specific until I fall into a memory."
"What's it like?" Bellatrix asked, reaching out and brushing a strand of hair behind Hermione's ear.
"It's hard to explain. It sort of feels like the world around me stops existing and I'm actually there in the time from the memory. But then when it's over I'm back in this time and things were still happening and I missed it." Hermione sighed. "Like on my way here, I was worried about getting caught by someone and then I was sitting with you on a piano bench talking about a spell I had invented to avoid detection. Then I was back in the hallway."
Fingertips caressed Hermione's cheek gently. "When you're in my class, what are you remembering?"
Hermione's cheeks colored slightly as she leaned into the soft touch. "It's memories of teaching you what you're teaching us."
"So they're triggered when they're useful?"
"I don't know." Hermione chewed on her bottom lip. "What about the bad memories? Those aren't useful and I fall into those sometimes."
Bellatrix shifted so she was lying on her side. "Are you sure they aren't useful?"
Hermione's brow furrowed. "I'm pretty sure."
"Can I try something?" Bellatrix whispered.
Hesitation flashed across Hermione's face before she nodded.
"Close your eyes," Bellatrix instructed, reaching out and threading her fingers through Hermione's to remind her she was there, "Can you try to remember something? Anything?"
One deep breath later, Hermione's eyes were closed and she was searching through her memories. All of the ones she had experienced crowded her and the ones she was trying to reach always slipped out of her grasp. She could feel Bellatrix's hand in hers and fought to stay focused on her memories. She breathed deeply, trying to pull one to her.
"I can't," she said, opening her eyes, "Every time I get close they slip through my grasp."
"Try again," Bellatrix encouraged, "Don't try to force them to come to you, let them come to you."
Hermione nodded, closing her eyes again. Bellatrix squeezed her hand reassuringly and she felt herself relax a little more. Memories flashed behind her eyes, but none of them were the ones she was trying to remember. She shifted and Bellatrix squeezed her hand again, reminding her she wasn't alone. Hermione felt the familiar sensation of falling into a memory and her grip on Bellatrix's hand tightened as it became clear.
She was laying on a cold marble floor, her arm burning and her face wet with tears. The sounds around her took time to focus but when they did she easily recognized the voice. It was Bellatrix. Well, not her Bellatrix, the other Bellatrix. The bad one. From far away, Hermione felt a hand squeeze hers. The other Bellatrix was saying something about a vault and a sword. Her vault? But that wasn't quite right. A jet of light hit her in the chest and Hermione screamed, her eyes opening to find herself in the Room of Requirement. For a moment, the Bellatrix next to her looked like the other Bellatrix, and she pulled away, curling into a ball and shaking her head back and forth. Arms encircled her and she fought against them, trying to get away.
"Hermione," Bellatrix calmly said, repeating the brunette witch's name until she stopped fighting.
She choked on her sobs, allowing the older witch to turn her so she was looking up at her. "Bella?"
"I'm right here," she whispered, her heart breaking as Hermione's voice cracked.
Hermione no longer shrank away from her touch, and Bellatrix scooped her into a hug. Hermione buried her head in her neck, gripping her shoulders tightly. Bellatrix rocked them back and forth, letting Hermione collect herself.
"Helga Hufflepuff's cup was in your vault last time," her voice cracked, "But it wasn't really your vault. You were married. It was your husband's vault."
Bellatrix's eyes narrowed. "Lestrange."
She felt Hermione nod against her chest. "I-I remember something about you and him. He was...I can't remember exactly. He...died at the Battle of Hogwarts. Or was that the other one? He was jealous of you. You told me. Well, not you you but the other you. He was jealous that Voldemort picked her over him."
"With me gone, he would've chosen Lestrange," Bellatrix finished, "So it's still in his vault."
"Maybe," Hermione croaked, taking a shaky breath.
"I'm sorry that's the one you remembered," the older witch whispered against Hermione's temple, smoothing back her hair.
"I don't want to do that again, Bella," she mumbled, pressing her face into her shoulder and tightening her grip on her robes, "I don't want to see you like that."
"Hermione," Bellatrix whispered, "That's not me. And thanks to you, it never was me. I will never become that because you got me to believe in myself."
Hermione sniffled, pulling her head back. "That wasn't me, though."
Bellatrix brushed Hermione's hair behind her ears, framing her face with her hands. "You may not think so. The Hermione I knew was fiercely protective of the people she loved, was smarter than anyone I've ever known, was supportive of her friends, could accomplish anything she set her mind to. You're like that now. You are Hermione Granger and you will get through this no matter how hard it is."
The vulnerability on Hermione's face as she nodded softly pulled at Bellatrix's heartstrings. She watched Hermione lay back down, dried tears visible on her cheeks. Hermione closed her eyes, trying to breathe calmly.
"I'm afraid," she whispered in a small voice, "Of who I was, or will be, or am. I'm afraid of the dreams, I'm afraid things might not be fixed enough to matter. I'm afraid because I'm losing myself and I can't seem to hold on anymore."
"You can let go, Hermione. I'll be there for you, so will your friends and your family."
Hermione let her head fall to the side, eyes full of more unshed tears. "I'm scared."
Bellatrix pulled her into a hug, caressing her scalp with deft fingers. "It's okay. It's okay to be scared. It's okay to feel like everything is falling apart around you. It's okay to need help."
"I want to get through this, Bella," Hermione mumbled, "Will you- will you help me?"
"Absolutely. I think Occlumency is a good place to start." Bellatrix pressed a kiss to Hermione's hair. "We can't stay here all night, but we can stay a little longer."
She felt Hermione nod against her chest, continuing to stroke her hair.
"Bella?" Hermione asked after calming down to the point where she almost fell asleep.
"Mhm?" she uttered, not opening her eyes.
Hermione chewed her lip before deciding to just spit it out. "Do you think Dumbledore would let me change my house?"
That got Bellatrix's attention, and she pushed herself into a sitting position, earning a pout from the brunette. "It's really up to the Sorting Hat, but if you asked, I don't see why he would deny you the chance. Why? What's wrong?"
"Nothing's wrong," Hermione sighed, "It just- it hasn't really felt like home. It's not that I'm not brave, I am. Since you unlocked all these memories, I've felt different and I feel more out of place in my house than I ever have before."
"Are you hoping for anything in particular?" Bellatrix asked, brushing Hermione's hair behind her ear.
She watched Hermione hold her lip between her teeth, her cheeks coloring slightly. "I was kind of thinking Slytherin would be a better fit."
"I could see that." She winked at Hermione, successfully lightening the mood.
"I should get back to my dormitory," Hermione suddenly said, bolting upright.
Bellatrix laughed and nodded, pushing herself to her feet and offering Hermione a hand. She took it shyly, silently marveling at the muscle she could feel in Bellatrix's arms. Despite her insistence that she could walk herself back to the Common Room, Bellatrix walked with her anyway, claiming that it would prevent her from getting in trouble, to which Hermione pointed out that she knew magic that would keep her from getting caught. Bellatrix had shrugged it off, and Hermione couldn't complain too much because she actually enjoyed the company of the older witch. She couldn't stop herself from giving Bellatrix a brief but meaningful hug before she slipped through the portrait entrance, tip-toeing the rest of the way to her bed. She had no idea what time it was, but she set her wand to alert her at sunrise, regardless. That was when she always woke up at school, and she wasn't about to stop now. Fortunately for Hermione, she fell asleep soon after getting comfortable, and her dreams were filled with silver and green.
The first place Hermione went after leaving her Common Room the next morning was Dumbledore's office. The sooner she got her answer, the sooner she would feel better, even if she wasn't put in another house. She waved at the statue guarding the stairs, always making a point to be nice to it, as she gave it the passphrase. In return, it bowed its head and revealed the staircase to her. Hermione took a deep breath before placing her foot on the first step. That was always the hardest part. Ascending was easy once she had started, and before she knew it, she had reached the top.
"Hermione," Dumbledore greeted, looking over his half-moon spectacles with slight surprise, "Good morning."
"Good morning, Professor," Hermione greeted warmly, sitting across from him, "How are the jelly beans this morning?"
He made a face that Hermione interpreted as negative before chuckling. "It is a guessing game as always. What brings you here?"
"Well," she fidgeted in her chair, "I was wondering if I could be re-sorted into another house. It's not that I don't feel like a Gryffindor, I very much am, but it doesn't feel like home anymore. If I'm honest, it never really did, I just didn't know why."
He nodded wisely. "I see. May I presume you have another house in mind?"
"I think you know the answer to that already, Professor," she said, returning his knowing smile.
"Very well," he chuckled, "We will see what the Sorting Hat has to say on the matter. If you are placed in a new house, I will need about half a day to get everything sorted."
"I understand," she said, watching with bated breath as he grabbed the hat, "I'll need permission to go to Diagon Alley."
"Naturally. I'll send Bellatrix with you, I'm sure she'll be awake by the time we are finished."
He placed the hat in front of Hermione, who took it with steady hands and placed it on her head,
"Ahh, Hermione. I've lost count of how many times I've sorted you, now. Your mind is no help, what with the jumbled state of your memories. What is real and what isn't, a very good question indeed," it mused aloud, not noticing how Hermione's cheeks had taken on a pink tinge, "As I've said before, however many times I've sorted you now, you could belong in almost any house. It seems Gryffindor is no longer the best fit for you, yes. You've begun stagnating and you're drifting away from those you called friends, for good reason. It's quite a pickle that I did not see these memories before, but the way they've changed you...must be Slytherin!"
Hermione breathed a sigh of relief, which did not go unnoticed by Dumbledore. Thankfully, he didn't comment. He plucked the hat off her head, placing it back in its designated spot.
He steepled his fingers in front of him. "I do believe Minerva will be disappointed to lose you, for many reasons, but I am sure you will feel much better with your new housemates. Please bear in mind that I will not grant you another request to be sorted."
"I understand," she said, sitting straighter in her chair.
"Good. Let me summon Bellatrix and you can continue going about your day." Dumbledore conjured his Patronus easily, giving it a clear message to deliver to Bellatrix.
They made small talk while they waited, serving mostly to pass the time. She had almost expected Dumbledore to make her stay in Gryffindor so she could continue to help Harry, but that wasn't his concern. He knew she would do what was right, regardless of what house she was in because he had witnessed it before. Perhaps her re-sorting was the push Harry and Ron needed to actually begin trying harder. Bellatrix arrived right before they ran out of things to talk about, sparing them both from the awkward silence that was sure to ensue.
"Be back before breakfast is over," was all Dumbledore said, turning his attention to his desk.
Bellatrix gave Hermione a questioning look, grinning when she nodded excitedly. Dumbledore watched the exchange from over his glasses, largely unnoticed by the two as they left in an eruption of green fire. Hermione managed to stifle her joyous laughter until they were on the empty streets of Diagon Alley. Her happiness was infectious and Bellatrix found herself celebrating alongside the brunette. Their rowdiness subsided only when they entered Madame Malkin's, not wanting to draw her ire. The silver and green striped tie ran through Hermione's fingers easily as she adoringly admired the article with a distant smile. Bellatrix had busied herself with gathering everything Hermione would need into her arms. Robes, scarves, gloves, hats, skirts, and ties were piled in her arms to the point where she found herself having to peer around it to see.
"Erm, don't you think that's a bit much?" Hermione asked, dropping the tie and hastily scooping it off the floor.
Bellatrix surveyed the pile in her arms, looking at Hermione blankly. "No...?"
"You don't sound very sure," Hermione teased.
"If anything, I'll just give some of it to Draco, it's fine. He could use some new ties, anyway," Bellatrix said, walking past Hermione and placing the pile on the counter.
"I can't let you buy this," Hermione protested, "And why wouldn't you grab men's ties?"
"Don't you think it would be funny?" Bellatrix asked, her eyes gleaming.
Hermione considered her for a moment before admitting, "It would."
"One Galleon says he won't wear them," she challenged, paying before Hermione had a chance to protest further.
"You are so on," Hermione said, opening her mouth to comment on Bellatrix paying for her robes.
"Before you say a word," Bellatrix interrupted, taking the bag from the shopkeep, "I will not let you pay me back. Through a range of circumstances, you have become a constituent of the Black family. You are part of our family, now, even though you don't share our name or blood, we have...adopted you in a sense. It is my family's responsibility to make sure you are properly equipped for all your endeavors."
Hermione regarded her skeptically. "That just sounds like an excuse you made up."
"If you don't believe me, ask Draco at breakfast," Bellatrix said, rolling her eyes with a smile.
She nodded her assent, following Bellatrix back to The Leaky Cauldron. Bellatrix had tried to insist on ice cream from Fortescue's for breakfast, but Hermione had rejected the idea, pointing out that they both had a busy day ahead of them and would need something more substantial. She had acquiesced with a huff but perked up when Hermione had promised they would do it another time. Bellatrix had every intention of holding her to her promise. When they emerged back in Dumbledore's office, he was gone, most likely at breakfast by now.
"What should I do with my robes?" Hermione asked, placing them on Dumbledore's desk and loosening her tie.
Bellatrix just shrugged, pulling a tie out of the bag and passing it to her.
"I'll see if Ginny wants them," she mused, admiring her new tie as she straightened the not.
"I am hungry, you know," Bellatrix teased, handing her a robe, "I'll take care of your uniform."
Hermione waved her wand, magically changing her skirt. "Thank you, Bella."
"Of course," she said, "You might want to give your other wand a try. When you're ready. I'll see you in class, Miss Granger."
"Naturally, Professor," Hermione responded, slipping back into her role as a student rather than a friend.
She waved goodbye over her shoulder, rapidly descending the stairs. With a glance out the window, she saw that the sun had fully risen. She wasn't sure exactly what time it was, but if she was guessing right, Draco would be leaving the Slytherin Common Room for breakfast any minute. If she walked fast enough, she should be able to get down to the dungeons so they could go together. Fortunately, the staircases were exactly where she needed them to be, so she made it to the dungeons right as Draco was leaving. She was a little breathless and her hair was a little messy, but the first thing Draco noticed was the color of her tie.
"Nice colors, 'Mione, you trying to sneak into our Common Room again?" he teased, adjusting the strap of his bag.
She brushed her hair back with a chuckle, falling into step with him. "I don't know what you're talking about. I've never broken into another house's Common Room."
"Semantics," he shrugged, letting out a low chuckle.
"For the record, I already know what the Common Room looks like."
"You know what it looked like when Auntie Bella was in school," he corrected, "It might be different now."
"I guess I'll find out later," she shrugged.
The noise of the Great Hall hit them both at the same time, both of them scrunching their faces at the noise. "So, did you convince my aunt to let you borrow some Slytherin clothes so you could sneak a peek? Honestly, Hermione, that's a cheap trick."
She was unbothered by his words, recognizing the teasing tone, and rolling her eyes. "Yes, Draco that's why I'm following you around. I've no idea what the password is so I couldn't possibly hope to get in on my own."
"I thought that was it," he said, patting the spot next to him, "So, how'd you really get those colors?"
"I asked Dumbledore if I can be sorted again," she answered, grabbing a slice of toast.
Draco passed her the pumpkin juice, exclaiming, "Brilliant!"
"Keep it down, it isn't official yet," she chided, sending him a light glare, "My old house isn't going to take it well."
"Not to worry, Hermione, you're under our protection now. No one would dare mess with us, we might curse them," Zabini said, eavesdropping from his spot across from her.
The three of them laughed, the conversation halted by several Slytherins coming over to see what the buzz was about. For the most part, they were excited to have her. Not only would she help them beat Gryffindor for house cup, but she had a bit of a dark streak if anything Draco had told them was true. They appreciated it more than her peers in Gryffindor, and they abided by her request not to make a scene yet.
"Draco," she said once her housemates had stopped coming over, "Can I ask you something?"
"Of course," he said, bringing his cup to his lips.
"Am I a," Hermione paused, scrunching her eyebrows together to help her remember the exact words Bellatrix used, "A constituent of your family?"
"Sort of," he said setting down his cup and turning to face her, "You're a constituent of the Black family, not the Malfoy family. However, since my mother was a Black and married into the Malfoy family, constituents of the Black family can be considered constituents of the Malfoy family if the Head of the Family and the constituent agree."
"I don't know what any of that means," Hermione said, shaking her head in annoyance.
"Right," he laughed, "It's a lot of pureblood speak. A long time ago, it was used to bring 'lesser' families into high society by forming a contract with a family in the Sacred Twenty Eight. That family would become a small branch of the family, and in return, they would support the family's goals with votes or what have you. It also helped prevent inbreeding of the families. That is absolutely not what my aunt is doing, though. Basically, there is a significant enough relationship with members of the Black family- me, my aunts, and my mum- to consider you as part of the family. Kind of like an honorary member. All of your expenses can be paid by the Black family, and you even have limited access to the vault, but all withdrawals have to be approved by Auntie Bella."
"So, do I have to do anything in return?" Hermione asked, completely abandoning the rest of her breakfast.
Draco shook his head, placing his cup down. "You have no obligation to the Black family. Your constituency is unconditional."
"I'm not going to lie, I definitely thought she made it up so I wouldn't complain about her buying my new uniforms." She waited until Draco stopped laughing to continue. "How does your family tie in? The Malfoys, I mean."
"That's where it gets tricky. The Malfoy family has no obligation to take you as a constituent even though we are very closely tied with the Black family. You can't technically be declared a constituent because there technically is no Head. My father was sentenced to Azkaban, so his rights and duties were stripped from him. Since I'm still underage, I can't lead the family." He tugged on her sleeve, prompting her to stand and walk to their first class with him. "My mum is not a Malfoy by blood, so she is ineligible as long as the Malfoy heir- me- is alive and well. Right now, the estate is in a suspended state. We have access to the vault, but we're only allowed a certain amount a month. Auntie Bella usually pays for everything, though."
Hermione rolled her eyes as they reached the Potions classroom. "Is everything needlessly complicated?"
"Yes," Draco answered with a laugh, pushing open the door.
"Brilliant," Hermione muttered sarcastically.
Her blond companion stifled his laughter as he took up his spot next to her at the workbench, subtly inclining his head at Harry and Ron, who were staring at her with open mouths. They weren't the only ones, several of the Gryffindors had similar reactions, but they shrugged it off, deciding it wasn't worth it considering several of the Slytherins that were in the room had become more alert.
"I smell trouble," Draco muttered under his breath, placing his hands on the table and turning his head to the side and down slightly.
Hermione looked up, internally groaning.
"Are you pranking us, 'Mione?" Harry asked, "Because I don't think I get it."
"I'm not pranking you, Harry," Hermione said, her eyes flicking to Snape, who had just entered.
"Right then, so why are you wearing Slytherin robes?" Ron piped up, crossing his arms, "Trying to spend more time with your boyfriend?"
Hermione opened her mouth to retort, but Draco beat her to it. "You're more my type than she is, Weasley."
Ron's face blanched and turn red almost at the same time, his mouth opening and closing in a way that was decidedly fish-like. Hermione hid her smile behind her hand, covering her laughter with a fake cough. Draco was doing a remarkably impressive job keeping a straight face, even going so far as to wink when he had finished his sentence. Harry just stood there, too stunned to even react. Snape drifted up behind them, standing imposingly over them. Sensing his presence, the two wizards turned. He merely raised an eyebrow, scowling down at them. His gaze followed them to their workbench, waiting until they looked sufficiently shamed to begin. Hermione had put her head down on the table while his back was turned, her shoulders shaking with silent laughter until Draco nudged her with his elbow. Aside from the grin that she couldn't completely hide, she looked perfectly normal, but Draco knew that as soon as they were in the safety of the corridors, she would fall apart.
"Good morning, class," he drawled in monotone, "With the TriWizard Tournament in full swing, Madame Pomfrey has asked for some extra Skele-Gro, just to be safe. While I am aware that several of you," his eyes lingered mostly on Harry and Ron, "Will be unsuccessful in producing an effective Skele-Grow, enough of you are talented enough to produce one that is. You have until the end of class, if you finish before it ends, you may go."
Hermione and Draco quickly set to work brewing their Skele-Gro. They worked well as a team, not even needing words as Draco collected the ingredients and Hermione prepared them. Snape stood menacingly at the front of the room, overseeing all the pairs. Sometimes it was an effort not to visibly react when students made terrible mistakes. He watched Hermione and Draco with particular interest, not failing to notice her change of robes, just choosing not to comment on it yet. Dumbledore had, of course, told him of the girl's change of house this morning, so he was in no way surprised. He felt the corner of his mouth twitch upward. She would do better in his house, for sure.
He waited until they had finished brewing their Skele-Gro to address the two. "Exceeds expectations. And congratulations on a successful re-sorting, Miss Granger."
"Thank you, sir," she said, letting her hair cover her face as she packed her books. She was too focused on controlling her laughter to hear him award house points, trying to get out of there as quickly as possible. Draco's company was the only thing that prevented her from sprinting out of the classroom, both of them forcing themselves to walk at a normal pace. As soon as the door slammed closed behind them and they were down the corridor a bit, they burst into laughter. Hermione clutched the strap of her bag with both hands and Draco tipped his head back, running a hand through his hair.
"Did you see his face when you said that?" Hermione managed to say through her laughter.
"I'll never forget it!" He exclaimed, wiping a tear away from his eye.
Hermione followed him to the Common Room, taking special care to pay attention to the password. "Want to make it even better?"
"There's no way," he said, gesturing for her to go first.
"One Galleon says you're wrong," she sing-songed, looking around the Common Room, "New furniture, but it's identical, so it doesn't count."
"I think you've spent too much time with my aunt," he grumbled, "But you're on."
Hermione winked at him, setting off for the room she had occupied when she had attended with Bellatrix. She had no reason to think it would be empty, or that her stuff would be there, but she went anyway. It seemed Bellatrix had anticipated this because her stuff was waiting for her at the foot of one of the beds. The rest were curiously unclaimed, but she shrugged it off. With a flick of her wand, her new clothes sorted themselves and put themselves away, except for a tie she had managed to snatch out of the air. While she was there, she decided to switch out her books, grabbing the ones she needed for the rest of the day.
Draco was lounging in one of the chairs, watching the creatures in the lake swim by. Many of them shot him rude gestures, which he ignored as he had quickly learned to do. He rolled his head lazily to face the stairs when he heard Hermione's footsteps, swinging his legs over the arm so he didn't have to turn so much. When she came into view, she flashed him a grin, showing him the tie she was holding.
"No. Way," he said, his mouth falling open in shock, "Does that violate the dress code?"
"Do you care?" she asked with a laugh, tossing it into his lap and dropping onto the couch.
"Nope," he said, loosening his necktie and pulling it over his head, "Is there a certain way to tie it?"
She couldn't help her smile as she answered, "The same way you tie yours. I've had to fix Ron and Harry's enough times to know."
"Brilliant," he grinned, popping his collar and slinging the tie around his neck.
"You know, I think it looks better on you than the other one," she mused once he had finished tightening the knot.
He looked down at himself, tucking his other tie into his bag. "I think you're right."
She rolled her eyes at him, checking her wand for the time. They still had a half-hour before DADA began, but it would give them time to walk slowly. Draco was on the same page as she was, standing and offering her a hand up. She accepted, commenting about how he was such a gentleman. He flicked her ear in response, earning a whack on the shoulder as they emerged in the corridor. They then descended into more laughter, stopping by the Kitchens to grab sandwiches to eat on the way there. Although they had plenty of time between Potions and DADA, they usually avoided eating lunch with everyone else so they could sit somewhere quiet.
"Do you know what would absolutely sell that you're trying to get with Ron?" Hermione asked rhetorically between bites of her sandwich.
"If I asked Dumbledore to re-sort me and be placed in Gryffindor," he smirked, turning his head to her.
She nodded, forcing herself not to smile at the mental image of him in his rival house's colors. "But you would rather die, I'm sure."
"Absolutely," he laughed.
"Good," she said, sending him a conspiratory look, "Because I did all this work to spend more time with my boyfriend."
He let out a very undignified guffaw, which sent Hermione into laughter so strong she snorted, causing him to laugh even harder. They ended up drawing a few strange looks which they ignored as they leaned against the wall to catch their breath. Hermione clutched her stomach as she took deliberate, deep breaths, exhaling unevenly with the remnants of laughter. Draco refused to look at her, lest he start laughing again, turning so he was facing the wall. They had finally composed themselves when Professor McGonagall approached them with a stern expression.
"Miss Granger, Mister Malfoy, what on earth has possessed the two of you that you are behaving in such a manner?" she scolded, looking between them.
"We're so sorry, Professor," Hermione quickly said, straightening her posture, "We were having a hypothetical discussion and went a little overboard with the details to the point where it became hilarious."
"Very well," she said after regarding them with a skeptical look for several moments, "Miss Granger, if I may have a quick word?"
"Of course," Hermione said, collecting her bag from the floor and moving out of earshot of Draco, who leaned against the wall to wait for her.
Without thinking about it, she reached out and straightened Hermione's tie, regarding her as a mother would her child. "Although I am sad you will no longer be in Gryffindor, that does not change the fact that I will always be here to lend an ear if you ever wish to talk to someone. I know that you have grown as much as you can in my house, and I commend you for demonstrating the characteristics of your old house and seeking out the change you needed to make so you can continue to develop into the amazing young woman I know you will become. That is why I've decided to award 20 house points to Slytherin. I do hope that you will exhibit more control in the corridors. I look forward to seeing how far you'll go in Slytherin."
"Thank you, Professor. It means a lot. Out of everyone, I was most worried about your reaction to the news," Hermione said, shifting her weight to her other foot.
"Well, I have seen all that you have accomplished in the years you've been here and it would be foolish and unfair of me to judge you harshly. Now, off to class with the both of you." Minerva shooed Hermione away, watching with a faint smile.
"Blimey, that was close," Hermione breathed once she had grabbed Draco's arm, pulling him along.
"We aren't in trouble?" he asked, easily getting his feet under him and straightening his collar.
Hermione shook her head from side-to-side. "No, and she gave me 20 house points."
"Brilliant! I'm glad she didn't notice my tie," he said, looking behind them even though they were on a different floor.
"It helps that you were facing the wall," Hermione retorted, rolling her eyes and letting go of his arm.
Draco smirked. "Yeah, that might've helped a bit."
She refused to respond, rolling her eyes again and pushing open the door to the DADA classroom. They had arrived later than they normally did, but their spot at the front was still open. Most students preferred to sit toward the back, under the impression that it was safer. She caught Bellatrix's eyes and sent her a victorious smirk, gently tipping her head to Draco. The dark-haired witch scowled slightly, unnoticed by everyone but Hermione. As she sat down, she stuck her tongue out for good measure, amazed at Bellatrix's control over her facial expressions. Her eyes held a different story, though, and Hermione fully expected that their betting war had only just begun.
"Mister Malfoy," Bellatrix said, hopping onto the edge of her desk, "Is that a women's tie?"
He looked down in mock surprise, responding with a cheeky, "Is it? I hadn't even noticed."
Bellatrix shrugged, "In that case, I'll pretend I haven't either."
"Pay up," Hermione whispered, holding an open hand out to him under the table after she heard Ron's mumbled expression. She bit her lip to hide her smile as he slid the Galleon into her head, turning her attention back to Bellatrix.
"Right then," Bellatrix said, hopping off her desk and clapping her hands together, "Today we'll be working on the Patronus charm. In its most basic form, it's effective against Dementors, and in its corporeal form, it can even be used to send messages across great distances. Today, I'd like you all to practice the basic form, but if you are able to conjure a corporeal Patronus, you will be exempt from next week's exam."
She instructed them on how to produce a Patronus, even going so far as to demonstrate with her own and giving it a message to deliver across the room. The students chattered in awe as the giant squid swam through the air, relaying the message she had whispered to it once it reached the door. Hermione found herself watching Bellatrix the entire time, admiring how bright her eyes were. She knew exactly what memory Bellatrix had used to conjure her Patronus, and she felt her cheeks tinge.
"Have you ever cast a Patronus?" Draco asked her, leaning back in his chair.
"Not exactly," Hermione said with a grimace.
At his aunt's pointed look at his chair, he let the front legs hit the ground. "Shall I go first, then?"
"If you want."
"Fancy another wager, 'Mione?" he asked, holding his wand loosely, "One Galleon says you'll be the first to cast a corporeal Patronus."
"Harry already knows how, he's done it before, that's a total waste, Draco," she said.
"If you don't think you can win the bet, that's fine with me," he shrugged, preparing to cast the spell.
Hermione sighed, "Alright, fine. One Galleon."
He shot her a wink, attempting the spell. He had plenty of strong memories to choose from, it was just a matter of choosing the right one. A faint mist drifted from the tip of his wand, but it wasn't good enough by his standards. Hermione would go next, giving him time to choose another memory. She had chosen her memory while Draco had made his attempt. It was filled with song, and ink, and lavender, and books. It was filled with Bellatrix sitting on the piano bench in the Slytherin Common Room, playing Liebstraum No. 3 after their trip to the Muggle world. Hermione took a deep breath, looking down at the vinewood wand in her hand. With barely a second thought, she slid it into her bag, pulling out the acacia wand instead.
"Expecto Patronum," she cast, allowing the memory to stay in the front of her mind without forcing it.
A white mist formed from the tip of her wand, thickening into a solid shield. It didn't stop there, coalescing into a ball that hovered in front of her. She could feel Bellatrix watching her knowingly, and she did her best not to let it distract her from the memory. Her Patronus was close to becoming corporeal, she could feel it. Several other students could feel it, too, pausing in their own efforts to watch. Gently, the ball formed into a giant sea turtle, its flippers propelling it around the room.
"Pay up," Draco whispered, pitching his voice to imitate Hermione.
She placed the Galleon in his hand as discretely as she could, ignoring his smug look.
"I guess Harry's a bit distracted, today." He sent a glance in the wizard's direction, taking great amusement in winking at him.
"20 points to Miss Granger for displaying the first corporeal Patronus," Bellatrix announced, ignoring the groans of the Gryffindors in the room.
"Let's see you do it," Hermione challenged, relaxing into her chair.
Draco rolled his shoulders, calling his chosen memory to the front of his mind. It was of the moment he first stepped onto the Hogwarts Express, waving goodbye to his mum and aunt. White mist flowed from his wand, thickening and swirling as he held onto how happy he was to have come to Hogwarts. The friends he had made and the experiences he had would never have been possible if he hadn't gotten on the train. He poured those emotions into his Patronus, trying to form a corporeal one. His work paid off when a fox darted in circles around him, earning attention from his classmates.
"Well done, Mr. Malfoy. No points for second place, though," Bellatrix praised.
He rolled his eyes, sinking into his seat and shooting Hermione a grin. While they waited for class to end, they played with their Patronus, having them race across the room or send messages to random students, startling them from their work. Bellatrix didn't scold them for distracting their peers, but she did give them a look that they interpreted as scolding. Harry was the only other student to cast a corporeal Patronus, although it did take him nearly the entire time because his thoughts were all over the place. Everyone else was at least able to produce a non-corporeal Patronus before class was over.
"Miss Granger, please stay," Bellatrix announced as her students were leaving.
Hermione set her bag down on the table, dropping back into her chair. Draco let her know that he would be waiting outside, swiping her bag from the table before she could protest. Hermione shook her head at how similar he was to Bellatrix. He probably didn't even realize.
"How are you doing?" she asked once everyone else had left, staying at the front of the class.
"Much better. Everything feels a lot easier to handle now. I was even able to call up a memory at will for my Patronus," she answered honestly, brushing her hair out of her face.
Bellatrix nodded, picking a book up from her desk and walking it over to Hermione. "That's excellent. I still think it would be beneficial for you to learn Occlumency. Before I start teaching you, I want you to read that. When you're ready, just let me know."
"I think you're forgetting one thing," Hermione said, holding the book against her side.
She placed a Galleon in Hermione's waiting hand, grumbling, "Cheeky witch," with a smile that detracted from her words.
Hermione just smiled at her as she left, pocketing the Galleon. Draco handed her bag to her as soon as he saw her, readjusting his own so it was more comfortable. They walked side-by-side through the corridors to the grounds to spend some time outside before dinner. As they stepped outside, Draco cast a warming charm over himself, shoving his hands into his pockets.
"Want to make a trade?" Hermione offered with a mischievous smile.
"I don't even know what it is, but the look on your face has me sold. What is it?"
Hermione pushed her hair out of her face, turning into the wind to help. "For every one of my ties I give you, you give me one of yours."
He turned his head to face her, an amused smile on his face. He dug his tie out of his bag, handing it to Hermione before shoving his hands back in his pockets. She pulled her tie off, replacing it with the one Draco had just given her.
"I think it looks quite nice," he commented.
"I think so, too. One Galleon that McGonagall is the first professor to notice," she challenged.
He tipped his head back and laughed. "My money is on Auntie Bella."