.

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Wednesday, 5 September 2012

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[Draco:] How is St. Mungo's treating you today?

[Hermione:] Not too bad. My parents visited this morning and my room is full of flowers and chocolate.

[Draco:] Sounds like you are living in luxury.

[Hermione:] Mostly I am just living in boredom. How was last night?

[Draco:] Meh. Theo and Emily are sickeningly cute together.

[Hermione:] That's sweet.

[Draco:] They have been flirting for years. I blame you for this, you know.

[Hermione:] How is it my fault if they get together?

[Draco:] My theory is that it never worked before because of the mark. That and the age difference.

[Hermione:] Ok.

[Draco:] Emily thought Theo was just after her because of his lack of options.

[Draco:] Now his mark is hidden and he is still mad about her she is willing to give him a chance.

[Hermione:] Happy to be of service.

[Draco:] I suppose it was bound to happen eventually.

[Hermione:] They told me I get to go home tomorrow.

[Draco:] Excellent news.

[Hermione:] They said I should rest for a few days. I am trying to get permission to go to the gala on Friday.

[Draco:] You better. You need to be there. How is Potter doing with the investigation.

[Hermione:] He seems to be working hard on it. Ginny says she has barely seen him.

[Draco:] I had an idea I wanted to run by you.

[Hermione:] Ok. What is it?

[Draco:] Remember when you changed Weasleys appearance and presented him as your date.

[Hermione:] Vividly. I was quite proud of that scar I gave him. What about it?

[Draco:] I am wondering if I could do something similar and be your date on Friday. For your protection.

[Hermione:] You want to be my date?

[Draco:] Just to make sure no one tries to kill you again. I can't think of anyone else I trust to do this.

[Hermione:] You just like being my hero.

[Draco:] Someone needs to make sure you stay alive.

[Hermione:] I like it. Although using a charm is not that effective.

[Draco:] Oh, Ok.

[Hermione:] His brother saw right through it. So did Luna. And it wore off after a while. How about polyjuice?

[Draco:] Yes, that would probably be better. Although I can only buy the one hour version.

[Hermione:] I could ask Harry. I believe the Auror office is licenced to use the eight hour version.

[Draco:] Do you think he would help?

[Hermione:] Probably. He is a nice guy you know.

[Draco:] I know. It's one of his most annoying trades.

[Hermione:] So who do you want to become?

[Draco:] Probably best to imitate some muggle or other.

[Hermione:] You are probably right. What would your backstory be?

[Draco:] I don't know. I hadn't thought that far. I half expected you to say no. Any ideas?

[Hermione:] With George we said he was from Italy.

[Draco:] Not bad. Then no one tries to remember him from their days at Hogwarts.

[Hermione:] We could get Daphne and Alexey involved and say you are Alexey's friend form wherever.

[Draco:] I would rather not involve any more people than absolutely necessary in this plot of ours.

[Hermione:] You could be my personal mediwizard?

[Draco:] Not a good idea. We do not want people to see you as weak remember.

[Hermione:] Ok, you come up with something.

[Draco:] Someone you met at Cambridge? An old friend? Exchange student?

[Hermione:] That could work. Do you know any foreign languages.

[Draco:] Only French.

[Hermione:] Well, there are plenty of French speaking countries. Do you have a favourite?

[Draco:] My complexion is not suited for places like Cameroon or Madagascar. I suggest Europe.

[Hermione:] Your completion is not an issue when you are on polyjuice.

[Draco:] Good point.

[Hermione:] You can have any complexion you want.

[Draco:] I guess I could become a ginger. You seem to have a thing for those.

[Hermione:] I care more about the content than the packaging so pick whomever you want.

[Draco:] How about someone from Belgium? They speak French in Tournai for example?

[Hermione:] Have you ever been to Tournai?

[Draco:] No, but I could go tomorrow and check it out.

[Hermione:] Ok, you go do that. Work a bit on your back story. I will get Harry to owl you the polyjuice.

[Draco:] When was I in Cambridge and what did we study together?

[Hermione:] I took a class called 'political and social aspects of economics'. We could have met there.

[Draco:] That actually sounds like something I would consider taking. Was it good.

[Hermione:] I enjoyed it, yes. Although most of the students taking the course were idiots.

[Draco:] Everyone is an idiot compared to you, Granger. It is amazing you even talk to the rest of us.

[Hermione:] I'm not that bad, am I?

[Draco:] No. Although you went a little overboard in your 'Reflections on Curses' article.

[Hermione:] Yes, you must have run out of red ink when you were correcting it.

[Draco:] Just a bit. But we got it dumbed down in the end.

[Hermione:] Yes we did.

[Draco:] Now, back to my back story. I think I moved to London recently and looked you up.

[Hermione:] Sounds plausible. People will think you are just using me for my fame and fortune.

[Draco:] That would be said about whomever you would show up with. Comes with being rich and famous.

[Hermione:] I suppose it does. So what are you doing now?

[Draco:] Chatting with you.

[Hermione:] No, I mean what is your characters employment status.

[Draco:] Well, it has to be something people can't verify.

[Hermione:] You could be writing fiction for the French muggle market?

[Draco:] No. Someone might ask for details. Or go looking for the books I claim to have written.

[Hermione:] So what's your idea?

[Draco:] Photographer? Working for some paper?

[Hermione:] Sure, that works. Now how about a name?

[Draco:] How about Louis Madelin?

[Hermione:] You can't just pick a famous historian. People will see through it.

[Draco:] Seriously? The name is taken?

[Hermione:] Yes. How about Louis Lasalle.

[Draco:] Sure. Pick any name you like, Granger.

[Hermione:] Then your name is Louis Gérard Lasalle. Sounds very dignified, doesn't it?

[Draco:] It doesn't really matter what name you pick. I just want to be there to make sure you survive.

[Hermione:] That is extremely sweet of you. Here comes Harry. Talk to you later.

[Draco:] Bye.

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Thursday, 6 September 2012

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Ron and Pansy volunteered to escort Hermione home from the hospital. They treated her as if she was about to drop dead at any moment, which annoyed Hermione to no end. She felt fine. She just wanted to get back to her normal life, check up on her house elves, go through her mail. Maybe take a walk and go grocery shopping. When Ron heard about that particular plan of hers he insisted that they go with her, which she allowed grudgingly.

All in all it took her 3 hours to get rid of the pair. The only reason she managed whas because she pretended she needed to take a nap. They protested and said they didn't mind staying the night in the guest room as she basically pushed them into the floo. She promised she would send them a message if she needed them and sighed with relief as the green flames engulfed them.

When she was finally alone she took a moment to just close her eyes and enjoy the silence. She opened her eyes again when she heard someone sneak into the room quietly. It was her tempramental house elf Toad who approached her. Toad came right up to Hermione and then, without a word, she hugged Hermione's left leg.

"Welcome home mistress"

"It's good to be home, Toad."

"Toad will take good care of you."

"I know you will. You are a good house elf."

They stayed like that for a little bit.

"Toad."

"Yes, mistress."

"Ginny is pregnant with twins. Soon she is going to have five kids. I am going to ask Miffy and Crux to stay with her and help take care of both her and the kids. Do you think that's Ok? Do you think they will be fine with the Potters?"

"Yes, Mistress. Toad thinks that will be good."

"If you miss them then you can go there to visit or ask them to come here for a little bit."

"Thank you Mistress. You are a good witch."

After that Toad let go of Hermione's leg and walked towards the door where Spike was waiting for her. He took her hand and together they walked towards the kitchen to make some dinner for their beloved mistress.

- # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # -

[Hermione:] How was Tournai?

[Draco:] Both sunny and pretty. I bought you a present.

[Hermione:] That's sweet. I like presents.

[Draco:] Who doesn't.

[Hermione:] What? Is this a subtle hint that you want me to buy you a present.

[Draco:] Nothing subtle about it. I saved your life. You better get me something.

[Hermione:] Ok, I'll get right on it. Now tell me about your trip.

[Draco:] The twins have a friend in Paris. I contemplated flooing there and renting a car.

[Hermione:] But?

[Draco:] I decided to just take the tunnel instead. It's been awhile since I've been on a good road trip.

[Hermione:] How long did that take?

[Draco:] It wasn't too bad. Three and a half hours one way.

[Hermione:] How long did you stay?

[Draco:] A few hours. I aparated back and fetched Theo for a late lunch and some company for the return trip.

[Hermione:] Did you tell him what we are upto?

[Draco:] No.

[Hermione:] So what did you tell him?

[Draco:] I picked him up once I was back in France and said I was on an errand for my mother.

[Hermione:] I see. Did you decide anything more about Louis's backstory?

[Draco:] The paper I work at is called "Éclipse Lunaire" and I have a penthouse apartment south of the river.

[Hermione:] Ok.

[Draco:] And my favourite muggle restaurant there is called "L'Arche de Noe".

[Hermione:] Sounds like you had a much better day than I had.

[Draco:] I'll invite you along on my next road trip. Are you still at St. Mungo's?

[Hermione:] No, I got home a while ago.

[Draco:] Do you have someone guarding you?

[Hermione:] Harry put up some extra wards, the house elves are here and I think I spotted an Auror outside.

[Draco:] Good. Speaking of Potter: Did you get the polyjuice?

[Hermione:] Yes. He did not want to owl it so you will have to come here before the gala.

[Draco:] Sounds like a plan. I can be there at half past five and then we head out at six.

[Hermione:] Did you find someone to become?

[Draco:] Yes. A Belgian guy who looked a bit like a Louis. Dark and handsome.

[Hermione:] Sounds like I will have a pretty little eyecandy escorting me to the gala tomorrow.

[Draco:] That's the plan.

[Hermione:] See you tomorrow then.

[Draco:] Sweet dreams.

- # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # -

[Hermione:] Do you think your hairdresser has time to work her magic on me tomorrow?

[Pansy:] I will talk to her when I wake up, but if she is fully booked then I will fix you up myself.

[Hermione:] Excellent. I can't look half dead at the gala. I need some good press.

[Pansy:] Yes, I can see that being important.

[Hermione:] I have to go by the Palace in the morning and then I am having lunch with my parents.

[Hermione:] But I should be done with all of that by two. Then I'm all yours.

[Pansy:] Sounds like a busy day. Get some sleep now. That will help.

[Hermione:] Absolutely. Heading to bed now.

[Pansy:] Good night. Talk to me when you wake up.

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Friday, 7 September 2012

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When Draco arrived at Hermione's house he found Harry waiting for him, but Hermione was nowhere in sight.

"Hi. I have to get back to the ministry, but I just wanted to have a quick word before I go about tonight."
"Ok. What's up Potter?"
"The ministry is increasing security tonight. Not just for Hermione but for all the candidates. That means I had to tell people that I had an undercover agent with her."

"So I'm an undercover agent now."

"That's the story we are going with. Since you will be on polyjuice you will be setting off our charms all night. There was no hiding this. But at least I managed to keep your name out of the paperwork."

"Excellent."

"I think it just says 'Potter's agent' everywhere."

"Right."

"And another thing. Hermione told me about the Death Eater gathering last week."

Draco did not say a word. He just stood there passively and faced Harry who suddenly got reminded of Snape. Snape used to have that exact look on his face when he faced the world.

"Relax Malfoy. She just told me what happened and asked me not to go after any of them."

"Why?"

"She figures that if anyone finds out that we are investigating people with the dark mark then the entire lot of you will be judged without a trial. Which is probably true."

"Why are you telling me this?"

"I agree with her. And I find it highly unlikely that any of the ex-Death Eaters are after Hermione. But I would like you to confirm that for me. Quietly."

Draco relaxed a bit and conceded.

"I have considered the possibility. I didn't know all the wizards there. I know it wasn't me or my parents or Theo or Emily. I can make some discrete enquiries about the rest of them."

"Thank you. It would just be better for everyone if you looked into it rather than me doing it."

"Apparently I'm an undercover agent now."

"So it would seem. Let's see if you are any good at it. Tonight is going to be a challenge and would be really bad for the Auror office if something happened at the ministry. We should be able to keep people safe in our own building. But since we do not yet know the motive behind Hermione's attack we have to be extra careful. Who knows. It could be someone on the inside. I'm not ruling anything out at this point."

"Smart."

"I will be on duty but I will have to keep my eyes on all six candidates. Seven if you include Fawley, who has said he will be there too."

"Ok. My plan is just to keep Granger out of trouble."
"And I appreciate that, Malfoy."

"You don't think it's me then?"

"No, not really. You saved her on Monday and didn't want the credit for it. That puts you in the unlikely-to-be-an-assassin category."

"That's something, at least."

"Just keep your eyes open. The more eyes we have out there, watching, the better. Do you have a bezoar with you?"
"Yes, I bought a new one this morning."
"Good. I am also giving you a portkey, just in case you need a quick extraction. Here. It looks like a normal pen, but if you take off the cap then it will whisk you to my office. Portkeys in or out of the ministry are not allowed, so this is the best I can do. If you see any danger then just get Hermione out of there. I will be with you as soon as I can."

"Ok. I can do that." Draco said and pocketed the pen.

"And here is the polyjuice. Eight hours from the time you take it until it wears off. Do you have hair?"
"Yes, got some when I was in Belgium yesterday."
"And you are sure it is human?"
"Yes, of course."
"Good. Oh, and while I remember. Give me your fred. I want to be able to reach you if I think you should get out of there."

Harry got up, put his own fred against Draco's and paired them. Then he started moving towards the floo.

"You know, Malfoy. This means you are actually dating Hermione Granger. Who would ever have thought."
"Well, I just couldn't think of anyone else that I trusted to keep an eye on her."

"Whatever your reasons, I appreciate your help."
"Let's just hope this will be a boring gala and all our worries and precautions prove unnecessary."
"Life has taught me that one always has to prepare for the worst case scenario. More often than not something is out to get you."
"Yes, you are right and I agree with that general policy."
"See you at the gala, Malfoy."

"Oh, I won't be there. But Louis Gérard Lasalle will be watching out for trouble."
"Seriously? That sounds like a rather stupid name."
"She picked it."

"Of course she did. Probably something she found in some book or other."

And with that Harry disappeared in green flames, leaving Draco alone with a polyjuice potion in his hand.

- # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # -

Hermione was packing her purse when Draco came up the stairs to the second floor. She was wearing a full length muggle gown with bare shoulders and her hair was up. She had seen the dress in a store window across the street from where she had had lunch with her parents today and picked it up before heading back to London. Applying a couple of altering spells to the dress it now fitted her perfectly.

"You're looking pretty today."
"Don't I always?" she replied with a wink before disappearing into the library.

"Well, your current look is a definite improvement on how you looked last time I saw you," he called after her. Through the door to the library Draco saw Hermione stuff an impossibly large book into a small purse.

"Did Harry manage to talk to you?"

"Yes. He seems surprisingly Ok with you being escorted by a Death Eater to the gala."

"I believe we covered this topic already. You are an ex-Death Eater, but even back then you were always a rather pathetic excuse for one. Also; This is Harry. The man who offered Voldemort a chance to repent and save his soul. Are you really surprised he is treating you decently? He knows very well that you got approved by the orbs and haven't been in trouble for years and years."

"I suppose. Are we almost ready to go?"
"Well, I am but you are not."
"Right."
"Have you used polyjuice before?"
"Yes, Granger."

"Do you have the hair?"
"Right here."
"And you are sure it is human hair?"
"What is it with you and Potter being paranoid about the hair?"
"We had an accident once."
"Sounds like an interesting story."
"It is. But it will have to wait. Is the guy you are turning into the same build as you? Because it can be uncomfortable to be suddenly wearing clothes that don't fit."

"Yes, he is. Possibly a centimeter or two shorter, but all in all it should be fine."
"Do you want to use the bathroom, just in case?"
"I probably should."

Draco disappeared into the bathroom and took off his clothes, just as a precaution. Then he added one of the hairs he had picked up into the vile and the liquid turned dark blue. The transformation started immediately once he gulped down the potion. He felt his hair shorten a bit and watched his hands alter their shape. In the mirror he saw his eyebrows darken, his cheekbones soften and he got a tan. His eyes went from gray to brown and he got a sudden intense itch between his shoulder blades that slowly faded. He looked at his back in the mirror and found a large tattoo between his shoulder blades. Another appeared above his heart.

It was weird to be in someone else's skin like this. But he had picked a guy with a similar build to himself so he wouldn't risk being clumsy all night. Once the transformation was completed he grabbed a towel and wrapped it around his waist.

"Granger. Get in here. You're going to love this."

Hermione opened the bathroom door.

"Wow, not bad. You look good with a tan."
Draco just smiled at that. "Bonjour my lady. My name is Louis, and I am very pleased to make your acquaintance."
"Oh, so Louise is a lady's man?"
"Louise is a hopeless flirt but tonight he only has eyes for you."

"I am going to have to try to remember who is really behind those eyes,"

"You better. Now come here. Check this out."

Draco turned around and showed her the intricate tattoo spread across his back. It was inspired by the works of J.R.R. Tolkien. There was Smaug flying over the lonely mountain, hobbiton, the one ring, the fellowship of the ring, the white tree, Andúril and Sauron's eye. It was a work of art. Hermione was awestruck. She came closer and stroked Draco's back gently as she inspected it.

"Wow. This looks amazing."

"I knew you would appreciate it. Apparently he was a fan. Look, there is also a quote written over his heart."

Draco turned around and leaned against the sink as Hermione came close enough to read the cursive script.

"Not all those who wander are lost."

Draco watches Hermione read the quote. He had read the books back when the movies started coming out so he knew where it was from. Again they found themselves very close to one another. Although this time it was different because one of them wasn't wearing their own skin.

Draco put his hand on Hermione's waist.

"Hermione."

"Yes, Louis"

"Thank you for not dying on me."

"You're welcome."

+ You scared me, you know. +

"I'll try not to do that again."

+ Thank you. +

"Do you want your present now?"
"Oh, are we doing that now? Sure."

Draco picked up a red jewelry box and handed it to her. She opened it to find a silver necklace covered in daisies. It was a beautiful craftsmanship, and very obviously magically made. There was a play with light and shadows that was not natural.

"Oh, it's beautiful. I love daisies."
"I know. You told me."
"Help me get this one off so I can put yours on."
"Turn around."

Draco assisted her in taking off her necklace and replacing it with his gift. When she had admired her reflection she told Draco to stay put and ran out of the bathroom. She returned a few seconds later with a present, which she handed towards him.

"What is this?"
"You wanted a present, so I bought one."

"You know I was joking about you needing to get me a present."

"Well, you get one anyway. Although the only stores I have been to today were in muggle Perth, Australia."

"Visiting your parents?"

"Yes, they get worried when there is an assassination attempt directed towards their only daughter."

"That seems like a reasonable reaction."

Draco accepted his present and opened the box. Inside he found a muggle made snow globe on an intricately decorated silver base. Within the snow globe was a lone dragon perched on a mountain, with his wings spread out and his tail curled around the mountain top. Hermione had added a simple charm to it so the snow swirled about without the owner having to shake the globe. And every now and then the little dragon would flutter his wings and move a little as if he was trying to get more comfortable.

"Thank you Hermione."
"I know, it's just a trinket. But you didn't give me a lot of warning so you will just have to smile and nod, and hope I do better next time."
"It's perfect. I like this little fellow."
"I was thinking that maybe I should have bought the one with a majestic eagle inside, you know, because of what you said about wanting to become a flying animagus. But that one had a stupid look on his face. I liked this one better."
"I like it too. Although I don't think I can bring it to the gala."
"You can just leave it here until we get back."

Draco liked the implication that they would be returning to Hermione's house together at the end of the night.

"Ok. Now you may want to leave for a moment because Louis is not wearing any underwear under this towel."

Draco came out of the bathroom fully dressed a minute later, put his present on a side table and offered Hermione his arm, which she took. Together they walked down the stairs towards the floo and then they stepped into the fireplace together

"Is there anything we need to go over before we leave?"
"Let's see. No drinking for either one of us tonight. Try to assure people that you feel fine and that the healers just over exaggerated your condition. Praise Harry for saving you and smile for the cameras. I'll stay by you looking handsome, but not too handsome because I wouldn't want to take any attention from you."

"And if anything happens?"
"Then I whisk you away to safety and shove a bezoar down your throat."

"Sounds like we are ready for anything."

"We should have a code word in case you start feeling tired or need to be rescued from a boring conversation."
"House elf?"
"That will do. Seems like something you can work into any conversation. Let's go."

- # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # -

The grand reception hall at the ministry was beautifully decorated. The floo connections to the great hall were located on the balcony that surrounded the great hall and from there one had a good view over the spectacle. Eight enormous floating crystal chandeliers, each measuring over four meters in diameter, circled slowly and elegantly over the endless rows of long tables that filled the great hall. In the center there were two circular stages. The larger one was presumably intended for some sort of performance but it was currently empty. On the smaller stage Hermione could see Lee Jordan and Cho Chang sitting on a weird-looking S-shaped couch conversing with one another. The equipment and signs around them announced clearly that this was a live coverage for the Wizarding Wireless Network.

People were pouring out of the row of fireplaces stretching along the balcony. Each witch and wizard was looking their finest. The attending staff tried to direct people towards the grand staircase that lead down to the main floor.

A stressed looking witch came hurrying towards them as soon as Hermione was spotted. Even if Hermione had gotten the schedule in advance there had been some last minute changes made that she now needed to know about. Draco made sure to stay close to her, putting one hand on her lower back as a clear indication to anyone looking that they were attending together.

- # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # -

- Cho: -

"The robes people are sporting this evening are just spectacular. A lot of the witches here have had robes especially made for the occasion. Some of these are truly magical creations. Here comes Narcissa Malfoy down the stairs in all white, like a snow queen on the arms of her black clad husband."

- Lee: -

"Yes, all the big names seem to be making appearance tonight. Behind the Malfoys we see Rowena Lestrange entering with her very good friend Fauna Fortescue. Their robes seem to match, with Miss Lestrange wearing green butterflies on her gold dress and Miss Fortescue wearing gold butterflies on a green dress."

- Cho: -

"Behind them we see the Edgecombe family arriving. Mr. and Mrs. Edgecombe are elegant as always. Their son Edward is not accompanied by his wife tonight, but is instead leading his sister Marietta down the stairs. If I remember correctly, then the younger Mrs. Edgecombe is still on tour in Canada."

- Lee: -

"Behind them we see Marcus Flint entering with fellow quidditch player, Elisabeth Goldsteen. I did not know they were dating."

- Cho: -

"Let's not jump to conclusions here, Lee. It is possible they are here as friends. Behind him we have Robert Thorn, senior healer at St. Mungo's, looking spectacular as always. He is joined by his daughter Rachel Thorn who just started playing with the Ballycastle Bats."

- Lee: -

"I like her. Excellent chaser. But look now at the top of the stairs. Here comes another candidate, Hermione Granger, in a white and violet dress escorted by an unknown wizard. Do you know him?"

- Cho: -

"No, I don't believe I do."

- Lee: -

"A first date perhaps. Or a secret romance that is finally becoming public. Whatever the story is here, he looks like he has won the lottery. Understandable considering who he is escorting down the stairs. Any wizard would consider himself lucky to catch the attention of Hermione Granger."

- Cho: -

"Are you confessing to a secret crush, Lee?"

- Lee: -

"Nothing secret about it, Cho. Hermione Granger has been on my top ten eligible witches list for many years."

- # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # -

Hermione and Draco got to enjoy the appetiser together but as soon as dinner was served Lee and Cho called the candidates up to the stage in pairs for some friendly banter. Hermione was paired with Rowena Lestrange and after discussing Hermione's excellent health and Rowena's latest accomplishments Lee good humoredly suggested that the reason why Hermione hadn't published an autobiography was perhaps that Rowena's publishing company had refused to print it. Hermione and Rowena laughed at that and Rowena promised she would be happy to publish Hermione's autobiography any time. The conversation somehow evolved such that Hermione promised that once the remaining three Reflections articles were out she would publish them as a book with Rowena's publishing company. And Hermione even promised, live on the wireless, that if she got through the first round then her book would be free for all and available at Purple Palace on Sunday morning, right after the first elections.

"I'm sorry about that," Hermione said to Draco when she got back to her table.

"Don't be. It was a brilliant move. You have ensured yourself a publisher willing to work within our time constraints and it borderline looks like Rowena has endorsed you. It was brilliant."

"She will charge me a fortune."

"It won't be too bad. She would look like a sore loser if she overcharges too much."

Hermione got to eat while they watched Blaise being pitted against Neolin Parkinson. Blaise was brilliant. Probably because him and Lee played so well off one another. The jokes were flying and Neolin came across as a dinosaur. A relic. Someone who would not be able to keep up with the times or the muggles. Blaise pressed his advantage and played up the emerging muggle technologies and how important it was to adapt outdated concealment charms in order to uphold the statue of secrecy.

"Will it be problematic amongst you guys if it ends up being me against Blaise?"
"Would it be problematic between you, Potter and Weasley if you cheered for a different quidditch team than they did?"
"Of course not."
"There's your answer. You are my chosen champion. That has nothing to do with my friendship with Blaise or Theo."

Desert plates floated into the hallway and settled themselves in front of people as Septima Vector and Thomas Bulstrode took the stage. Hermione expected Thomas to completely dominate this battle of wits, but Septima did surprisingly well considering some of her earlier performances. Thomas had to rise to the challenge and the whole exchange became both entertaining and informative. The applause was deafening when they got down from the stage.

Cho returned and her and Lee discussed and compared the candidates for the benefits of the listeners at home. The witches and wizards present did not pay them any attention, choosing instead to talk to one another.

Hermione and Draco were sitting across the table from a Mr. and Mrs. Bloxam. Mr. Bloxam was a grandson of the famous Beatrix Bloxam, but to Hermione's disappointment he could not remember his grandmother much.

As the empty desert plates started to fly out of the great hall, so did the glasses, the cutlery and the centerpieces. Shortly thereafter the tablecloths followed, folding themselves into swans before flying off. The tables in front of people simply vanished and after that people only had about 10 seconds to stand up before the chairs followed suit. Draco put his arm around Hermione and drew her close scanning the now standing crowd for possible threats.

The lighting changed to draw the attention to the stage where an orchestra had set up and was ready to start playing. Lee and Cho stood there too and with magically amplified voices they addressed the crowd.

"Ladies and gentlemen. Once again: Welcome! Let's hope the food was to everyone's liking and that the entertainment helped you make up your mind as to whom you would like to see in the minister's seat a couple of weeks from now."

"Oh, hush Cho."

"Don't you shush me, Lee."

"Stop being so serious all the time. The elections are still a whole week away. Let's just dance and be merry and enjoy the evening."

"You make a good point. There is plenty of time later for all the seriousness. I hear for example that you are hosting the second general debate tomorrow."

"Tomorrow is still hours away, but yes. I better switch to water. And as for you; Don't forget to tune in at four tomorrow."

"Don't worry, Lee. I will be listening."

"But enough about that. Right now it is time to invite you all to join us on the dancefloor."
"For those of you with two left feet, like Lee here, I can point out that the bar is open."
"Hey! I would have you know that I do not have two left feet."
"Two right feet then. What difference does that make?"
"Are you implying that I can't dance, miss Chang?"
"I am indeed. You are welcome to prove me wrong, of course."
"Challenge accepted."

And with that Lee grabbed Cho's hand and the two of them jumped together as far as they could off the stage. The crowd parted as they then proceed to perform a highly choreographed number to a famous wizard song about toads in cauldrons. Before long people were clapping along and cheering for them.

It was an ingenious way of clearing an area by the stage that then could be used as a dance floor. They effectively pushed people to the sides as Lee swirled Cho about and threw her into the air. And since the dance was choreographed as a battle between the two, Cho got her chance to throw Lee about too, to everyone's delight. At the end of it they bowed to one another and to the cheering crowd.

"Thank you everyone. You are very kind. Now that we have set the tone for the evening we would like to invite everyone else to the dance floor."

"Come on Granger. Time to show off your new dress, get some publicity and prove to people that you will not be stopped by one tiny little assassination attempt."

Draco and Hermione were the first onto the dance floor and were in position when the music started. Draco was an excellent dancer, and Hermione had taken classes while she was at university so she could keep up. They glided over the dance floor with all eyes on them for a minute or two before other couples started to join them.

Hermione was pleased to see that Rowena Lestrange entered the dance floor with "her very good friend" Fauna Fortescue. Even though the entire magical community knew about the two of them, people tended to be too conservative to talk about it openly. They were always just referred to as "very good friends". It pleased Hermione that Rowena was not going to try to hide or change who she was even if she was running for Minister for Magic.

Everyone applauded the orchestra when the music stopped.

"How are you feeling, Hermione?" Draco whispered into her ear. "Do you perhaps want to get a drink or do you want to continue dancing."
"Honestly?"
"Yes. Always."
"It has been a very long day. And I am a bit tired. But if we go off the dancefloor I will either have to enter some deep political debate or be asked to dance by some high society elitist who wants to gain favours from me, just in case I win. I think I would rather stay here with you for a while."
"I think that is an excellent plan. You are being seen, looking pretty, smiling and enjoying yourself. That is enough for now. Let's just dance."

"Admit it. You just want to feel me up."
"That is, of course, my ultimate goal, yes. What can I say. Louis sounds like a wizard who enjoys dancing with beautiful witches. And I can undoubtedly come up with endless political excuses for keeping you in my arms as long as possible."

The next song started and Draco twirled Hermione around before grabbing her close and swaying her to the beat of the music. They soon discovered however that they were not safe on the dance floor.

But instead of strangers wanting to talk politics to Hermione it was her friends who were curious to meet her date. First to approach her were Luna and Rolf. Hermione made the introductions and Draco played his part admirably.

A few minutes after that it was Bill and Fleur. Fleur's attempt at being subtle was less than successful. She was obviously thrilled that Hermione was dating "such a good looking wizard". She was even more thrilled when she found out he spoke French, and it wasn't until Hermione demanded to know what they were laughing about that they switched back to English. Draco was all charm, and Fleur seemed quite taken with him. She even tried to convince Hermione that she should bring him to the Burrow on Sunday, and refused to drop the issue until Hermione said she would at least think about it.

Draco chuckled when they left.
"Somehow I doubt she would be this eager to invite me to meet the family if I was wearing my real face."
"Sad but true. I still intend to work on that though."
"And I intend to distract you from that politically suicidal plan long enough for you to become Minister for Magic."

"So are you free on Sunday?"
"You must be joking."
"I am."

They got to dance a whole song before Hermione spotted the last people she wanted to confront right now heading straight for them.

"Oh, shoot."

"Was that supposed to be swearing, Granger?"

Then Draco followed her gaze and spotted them too. Ron and Pansy. Heading straight for them. To Draco's great surprise it wasn't Ron who was looking furious but Pansy. Ron was nothing but polite to Hermione's date while Pansy openly glared at him. Hermione had completely failed to anticipate this situation and was caught off guard. She did not enjoy having to lie to Ron, and got a bit flustered.

Draco came to the rescue and introduced himself as Louis Gérard Lasalle. He shook hands with Ron and kissed Pansy on her knuckles, which did nothing to improve her mood. He then told them everything about how Louis and Hermione had met when they were studying in Cambridge and how he had just moved to London and decided to look her up. Pansy listened to his antics and her frown just deepened. She finally made her excuse to Louis, grabbed Hermione by the arm and led her a bit away. This in turn left poor Draco and Ron alone together.

"What are you doing, Hermione."

"Having a perfectly lovely evening."

"Does Draco know about this?"

"He agrees with me that I might get a reputation as a rather pathetic spinster if I keep showing up to these things alone. Louis is an old friend. Stop worrying."

"This Louis character is holding you on the dancefloor like he owns you. And you are just letting him."

"Stop playing matchmaker, Pancy, and let me enjoy myself."

"I don't like it. Not one little bit."

"I know. You have made your point. But you must be smart enough to see that I can't show up with just anyone to an event like this. The press is watching my every move. It's only a week until the election."

"Even if some people aren't … 'politically suited' for this event does not mean you should be drooling over some random Belgian wizard."

At that Ron had had enough of talking to Hermione's date and decided to stop the whispered argument between the two witches. He basically grabbed Pansy and forcibly dragged her towards the bar, leaving Hermione alone with Louis again.

+ What was that about? I thought you and Pansy got along. +

"We do. It's you who she doesn't like."
"What? I thought I was delightful."
"Ok, it's us being together she doesn't like. She has opinions on who I should and shouldn't date."
"And exotic Belgian wizards don't make the list?"
"I suspect the list of people I should consider dating, according to her, is too short to have any room for poor Louis."
"What?"
"Oh, just drop it."
"No, I want to know what's got Pansy angry at me."
"She's not angry at you. She's angry at Louis. There is a difference."
"Ok. So why is she angry at Louis?"
"Because I am on a date with him, when she thinks I should be dating someone who is a bit more ... blond."
"Who? Me?"
"Yes, you. She has expressed rather strong opinions on the matter."

"That's hilarious. She hates me for being in the way of you dating me? Poor, sweet Pansy. Always defending my honor and thinking I deserve better than I do."
"None of that self-loathing now, Ok?"

"She's going to kill me when she realises she was mad at me for dating you and thereby preventing you from dating me."
"Now you are just being confusing"

"This whole situation is confusing."
"Just dance with me."
"That I can do."

And they danced.

- # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # -

Lee Jordan and Cho Chang were mingling and interviewing people about who they were likely to vote for. They were still broadcasting live on the Wizarding Wireless Network. It was the closest thing to an opinion poll that had been done so far during this whole election madness. Most of the senior wizards were smart enough not to give definite answers on the radio, and preferred to discuss the merits of each candidate instead. The younger generation was less likely to play that particular political game. From their answers it looked like the younger candidates; Hermione, Blaze and Rowena, were getting most of the votes. But both Lee and Cho pointed out this bias in the data and warned people from reading too much into it.

Lee decided it would be a hoot and a half to publicly interview Draco about his political views.

- Lee: -

"Here we have our golden heroine, miss Hermione Granger, dancing with a handsome wizard that I must admit I do not know the name off. Tell me, who are you and how did you score such a beautiful date this evening?"

- Draco: -

"Hello. My name would be Louis Lasalle and me and miss Granger go way back. We met at Cambridge, oh about ten years ago?"

- Hermione: -

"That sounds about right. 'Political and social aspects of economics', wasn't it?"

- Draco: -

"I believe that is where you first noticed me. I spotted you at the library a couple of times before that."

- Lee: -

"Well, the two of you are looking quite impressive on the dancefloor. Should I tell all the hopeful wizards that you are officially off the market, Hermione?"

- Hermione: -

"Hahaha, let us see if I manage to keep him interested long enough to escort me to the next one of these events. I do believe that my current obsession with wizarding politics may scare him off."

- Lee: -

"Speaking of politics, have you decided who you are voting for Louis?"

- Draco: -

"I can honestly say that I don't think anyone would do a better job as Minister of Magic than miss Hermione Granger. But unfortunately, I have to ask you to vote on my behalf. I am not eligible to vote here. I live in Belgium."

- Lee: -

"That is unfortunate. I am sure Hermione here would love to have your vote. Wouldn't you?"

- Hermione: -

"Every vote counts. But more than just asking people to vote for me personally, I want to encourage everyone who is eligible to vote to do so. Democracy is such a precious thing."

-Draco: -

"I agree. Even if I can not vote myself I am a huge fan of democracy. Everyone should have a say in who gets the top job."

- Lee: -

"Wise words from our favourite golden girl and her very handsome date. Thank you for your time."

- Hermione: -

"Thank you Lee."

When he was gone Draco frowned.

"I wonder what happens when Louis suddenly disappears. I hope it won't be too problematic for us."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, you may have to face Which Weakly running an article on your broken heart. Or your inability to keep a wizard interested. They live to print rubbish like that."

"What do we do?"

"We may be forced to keep up the illusion of Louis for a couple of more events. Say that he lives in Belgium and only comes by occasionally or something. I have a few more hairs and we can buy the one hour version of the potion so I could make brief appearances."

"That might work for the press but I will have problems when it comes to my friends. They can be nosy, the lot of them."

"We really didn't think this through, did we?"

"No, we really didn't"

"The only thing we have going for us is your stunt with George a.k.a. Romeo. We could make sure you get a few more dates with random guys noone has ever heard of. But that would come with a whole other pit of bad press."

"People might start to wonder where I pick up all these random guys."
"And where you are burying their bodies."
Hermione chuckled at that.

Suddenly they heard someone scream on a balcony. Quick as lightning Draco's arm was around Hermione yanking her to the side. Out of the way of any possible curses being aimed at them.

They had not moved far enough. Time slowed down for Hermione as she looked up and saw one of the gigantic chandeliers falling down. It almost felt like she was falling upwards. Flashes of another chandelier falling in another place at another time came to her.

There were more screams. Draco shoved his hand in his pocket, popped the lock of the pen Harry had given him and they disappeared.

- # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # - # -

A blink of an eye later Draco and Hermione appeared in Harry's office.

"Are you Ok?" both of them said, almost simultaneously. Draco followed with, "Are we safe here?" while Hermione exclaimed "What happened?"

Hermione decided to take a deep breath while Draco explained.

"Potter gave me a portkey. I decided to activate it."
"Ok, that explains why we are in Harry's office. Did you see what happened?"
"No, I just heard the scream and reacted. Did you see anything?"
"Just a gigantic, golden, gothic and scary looking chandelier falling right towards us."

"Seriously? I better send Potter a message."
"Since when are you and Harry fred-friends?"
"Since I volunteered to keep you alive for a few hours."

"Good job on the whole keeping me alive, by the way."
"It's becoming a habit."

[Draco:] Pen worked. We're Ok.

[Harry:] Stay put. I'll be there soon.

"Potter says he will fetch us at his earliest convenience."
"I hope no one got hurt."

"Did you see if any of the other chandeliers fell?"

"No, I only saw the one above us."
"I guess we will find out soon enough."

Harry's office was furnished with a large desk, one comfortable looking chair behind it and two rather uncomfortable looking chairs in front of it, a whole wall covered in bookshelves and three portraits that were currently missing their occupants. Hermione took out her wand and transformed one of the uncomfortable looking chairs into a double couch and sat down. Draco sat down besides her.

"What time is it?"
"Quarter to ten."
"Three hours left of this disguise. Let's hope that is enough."

They sat in silence for a minute. Hermione closed her eyes.

"Are you tired?"
"I got discharged from the hospital yesterday and today I managed to answer my correspondence, swing by Purple Palace, have lunch in Australia, buy a dress and a present for you, get my hair done, attend a gala dinner, be interviewed during a live broadcast, twice, dance for over an hour and survive another assassination attempt. So yes, I'm tired."

"Just extend the couch another meter and lie down. Might as well rest until Potter gets here."

Hermione did just that. As she got herself comfortable she put her feet in Draco's lap. Draco took off her shoes and started massaging her feet.

"I could get used to having you around."

"Too bad I'm only here for another two hours and fifty five minutes."

"Oh, I won't mind the return of your real face. It's not too bad."

"You suck at giving compliments."

Hermione went quiet. After a little while Draco noticed that she had fallen asleep. He didn't dare to do the same in case any more excitement was heading their way. So he accioed a boring looking book from Harry's desk. It was the Auror operations manual. Not the most exciting book, but better than nothing.

Hermione slept for almost an hour. Draco stroked her legs a bit when she looked like she was stirring. Just to let her know he was there and that she was safe. But instead of falling asleep again she she spoke up:

"Tell me about the orbs. What was it like?"

"I guess it was sort of like going to muggle therapy. Just not."
"How so?"
"The orbs are in you head sorting through your thoughts and making you re-evaluate who you are and what you believe in."

"Sounds unpleasant."

"It can be. They also tell you stories. Cautionary tales. I still don't know if all of those were true or not. Sometimes a known historical person would make an appearance and then I would try to confirm if the story was historically accurate."
"Were they?"
"I am not sure."
"Do they change you?"
"Not really, no. They just don't let you get away with any crap. You can not lie to them. And they go mad at unfounded accusations and believes."
"Like what?"

"Let's say I claimed that muggleborns deserved to be called mudbloods. The orbs would endlessly ask you why and try to get you to support that claim with a valid argument. Since there is none then the claim must fall. They are absolutely relentless and infuriating."

"How do you think they work?"
"I'm not sure. I suspect they just identify things that deep down you know isn't true and force you to face it. Although that isn't quite it. Maybe they were made to train logic and debate tactics. They don't attack everything. I'm still allowed to think Potter is an idiot. But they had problems with me thinking I was better than the Weasleys because I had money."

"Interesting. How long were you in the rehabilitation program?"
"Three years."
"Did you have to do anything other than go to orb-therapy?"
"I worked at a sushi restaurant."
"You're joking."
"No. I know how to make an excellent inside out rainbow sushi roll and I am a big fan of calamari tempura. Even my miso soup is half decent."
"I love sushi."
"Who doesn't."
"Why do you think they sent you there?"
"As far as I can figure out we were all sent out to interact with muggles in situations we were likely to enjoy. I made good friends at that restaurant. And it was extremely nice to spend time with people that had no idea there had even been a war… once I got over the fact that they were muggles."
"Do you think we did the right thing with the rehabilitation program?"
"I am happy you lot didn't send us to face dementors in Azkaban."
"But?"
"Dealing with the orbs was a bit infuriating at times. Did you know that they refused to end a therapy session if there was any risk of people wanting to off themselves?"
"No, I did not know that."
"Apparently taking one's own life is illogical according to the orbs. They keep refusing any argument you may have for wanting to off yourself. Even at one's worst there is still a chance things will improve. Maybe especially at your worst. Greg once spent 12 hours in a session with them. He never talks about it but I suspect things got pretty bad for him when he was dealing with his demons."
"I wonder what it would be like to face them."
"Who knows. Do you have any prejudices that you are secretly ashamed of?"

"I don't know. I guess I may sometimes be rather quick to judge people that disrespect other intelligent species. Centaurs, goblins, house elves."

"Even giants?"

"It's complicated with giants. Half giants like Hagrids should not be discriminated against. Full giants have to be respected on their own terms, but I think it may be best if we don't try to integrate them into our society. They are not humans so we can't treat them as such. Neither are they animals. They are simply giants."

"Didn't I read somewhere that some giant had a thing for you once."

"Ah, yes. Grawp. Sweet guy. We went out a few times."

"You're joking."

"Yes, of course I'm joking."

"It will take a lot before I would consider inviting a giant over for tea."

"What about goblins?"

"Not really the most trustworthy of creatures."

"Neither are wizards."

"True. There are plenty of wizards I wouldn't have over for tea either."

"I think that's basically the source of the whole problem. When it comes to wizards people are willing to admit that some are Ok and some are not. With other species they tend to judge the entire species instead of assessing each individual. Take werewolves for example. I would never have considered socialising with Greyback but Lupin was just a decent guy suffering from lycanthropy once a month. A condition that was easily managed with the right potion."

Before Draco could offer his opinion on that sensitive topic they heard footsteps approaching the office. Draco had his wand out in an instant and was aiming it at the door when Harry entered.

"I would appreciate not being hexed in my own office, Malfoy"

"Harry! You're back! What happened."

Hermione got up and gave Harry a hug while Draco put his wand away.

"We are still trying to figure it out. The chandeliers came from the catering company and were delivered this morning. We don't know yet when they were tampered with."

"How many of them fell."

"Two. All in all it was a miracle that things didn't turn out any worse than they did. Security was quick to react and there were probably almost twenty wands out before they were half way down. I doubt you would have been seriously hurt, but I was still glad to see you activate the portkey. We didn't want anyone leaving so we called in healers from St. Mungos. But there were no serious injuries. Two witches with minor cuts and 8 with minor burn wounds from the falling candles and wax."

"Can we assume now that someone is after Granger?"

"It seems likely. Although the attack was not as well planned as the first one. Hopefully we can catch the guy now."

[Ginny:] What's going on over there? Harry is not answering me.

Hermione looked at her fred. "It's Ginny. She wants to know what's going on."
"Can you talk to her. I have to get back. And the two of you should probably go home."

Draco stepped forward at that. "Now hold on. Where is the press?"
"Still in the great hall. People are slowly getting cleared to go home and the press is on them like vulchers."

"We need to go down there. Hermione needs to give a statement. It's still half an hour before the papers go to print and we need to stay on top of the narrative. And we also need to get our story straight."

"What do you mean? What story?"
"Why did Hermione disappear? Why did her date have a port key? Where did we go? Do people know that your are not allowed to portkey in and out of the ministry? Was the grand and almighty Harry Potter expecting trouble? Was there a threat against Hermione Granger he was aware off? And if we don't make an appearance then they will print that it was all a cover for an unknown Belgian wizard to abduct Granger. Probably sprinkled with a sidestory of the incompetence of the Auror office to keep track of the candidates. This story could get very ugly very fast."
"You're right Malfoy. We will have to think of something."

"Let me think."

Hermione quickly sent a message to Ginny that everything was Ok and everyone was accounted for.

"Ok, the simplest version is that you gave the portkey to Granger. The two of you are war heroes and always ready with a plan B. You were not expecting the attack but were ready for it nonetheless. We tell them we apparated to a safe location inside the ministry. It keeps me in the background. The only bad press is that it shows the favouritism between you. Why didn't the other candidates get a portkey? But if we start saying that you expected the attack then that is a whole new pit of dragondung."

"That's no good, Malfoy. Sorry."

"What?"

"Well. Those portkeys are for Auror use only. I am not really allowed to hand them out."

"Potter! You stupid git. You gave me what can basically be labelled a STOLEN portkey knowing full well that we would get into trouble if we used it? The elections are only a week away. What were you thinking?"

"Calm down guys. We can figure this out."

"How? What can we say that doesn't get us all in trouble? How? How can we possibly not get bad press out of this? It's not like Kingsley is around to get you two out of trouble any more."
"You're the political mastermind. What do you recommend we do?"

Draco threw himself on the couch and closed his eyes. This was a mess.

"Ok. How much trouble are you in Potter if you take credit for this?"
"Not too much. Minor reprimand. But I might have to excuse myself from the case if the press gets too mad about this. It wasn't particularly professional."
"In the grand scheme of things our ultimate goal is to instate Granger as minister of magic. Preferably alive."
"You have strange priorities, Malfoy"
"Well, shut up. I'm thinking. Can we pin this onto anyone else? What about Weasley? Was he close enough to make it plausible that he gave me the pen. As a concerned friend. And that I, Louis I mean, didn't know it was basically stolen."

"That could work."
"Then that is the story we go with. We just need to get him in on it."

"I'll send him a message."

[Harry:] Mate. Where are you?.

[Ron:] Me and Pansy are at Fourth Hallow, listening to the wireless and calming Ginny down.

[Harry:] Were you here when it all happened.

[Ron:] No, we just left.

[Harry:] Good. Stay there and don't talk to anyone. Me and Hermione need you to get us out of this mess.

[Ron:] Out of what?

[Harry:] Just consider yourself a part of the plot now. I'll fill you in later. Just don't say anything to anyone.

[Ron:] Fill me in now.

[Harry:] Basically we are going with the story that you saved Hermione. Play along.

[Ron:] What about Ginny and Pansy?

[Harry:] They get to be in on this one, but it ends there. Stay at Fourth Hallow.

[Ron:] Ok mate.

"Ron is on board. He is at my place and will play along with whatever we say."
"Ok, lets go. Louis only has an hour and ten minutes left and we need to catch the press before they leave."

"Ok. Can someone tell me what the story is before I make an official statement?"

"You tell them that you are very pleased no one got seriously hurt. You have been with the Aurors since the incident. When they asked you how you got out of there you say that I had a portkey. They will ask where I got one, and you say that unknown to you Weasley had been worried about something happening tonight after the incident on Monday, and he had given me the portkey. It took us to the Aurors office. Try not to elaborate too much. It has been a long and stressful night for you and you need to go home now. If they keep shouting questions at you, try to answer the silly ones. The one's that won't get you into too much trouble."

The three of them walked out of the Auror's office and towards the grand hall. As soon as they approached the press seemed to smell a story and converged on them. Lee was there, obviously still broadcasting live. It went as well as could be expected. The press was thrilled to see Hermione and eager to hear her story. Plenty of people had seen her disappear. She told them there had been a portkey involved and when she was pressed the rest of the story slowly emerged. First that it was Louis that had activated the portkey and then the lie about where he had gotten the portkey. Cho was quick on the uptake and asked if it had been a registered portkey. Hermione said she assumed so but would have to check with Ron on where the portkey had originated. It took them almost fifteen minutes to get to the floo where they left together for Hermione's house. Harry stayed behind to continue the investigation.

[Ron:] I heard you on the wireless. What was that about?

[Hermione:] Harry was handing out Auror-portkeys. He could have gotten into trouble over it.

[Ron:] So you two decided to throw me to the dragons?

[Hermione:] Pretty much. You may get a fine. I'll pay of course.

[Ron:] It's Ok. Happy to play the hero. Are you coming over here?

"Ron wants to know if I'm coming over."

"Where?"
"Harry's place. He's there with Ginny and Pansy."

Draco was silent for a minute.

"My cover is only going to hold for another half an hour or so. If you go, then I can't come."

"We could just tell them it was you all along."

"Crap. We really didn't think this through, did we."

"No. We really didn't."

"If you go over there without me, the lot of you are likely to do something monumentally stupid."
"I guess that depends on how you look at things. But I agree that you do have more experience in thinking about all the angles and political ramifications of our actions."

"The thing is, Granger, that no matter what we are going to have to deal with the fact that Louis is going to be in the papers tomorrow. Not just as your dismissable arm candy but as this mysterious stranger who saved you from disaster. I think we might have to keep him around."
"Then I suggest we tell Ginny, Pansy and Ron."
"Pansy is going to kill me."
"Ron will help her."
"Where does Ginny stand?"
"Who knows:"
"So it might be three against two."
"Very well could be."
"Then tell them you are not coming over now, but that we will all meet over breakfast instead. That way Potter can be on our side and even the odds."
"Sounds good."

[Hermione:] Let's wait until morning. It's better if we include Harry.

[Ron:] Ok. Me and Pansy are staying here tonight. Any idea when Harry will get home?

[Hermione:] None whatsoever. He seemed to have a lot to deal with over there.

[Ron:] So when do you want to come over?

[Hermione:] Just message me when Harry wakes up.

[Ron:] Ok. Try to get some sleep now.

[Hermione:] You too. Get the girls to bed. No use waiting for Harry. He'll come when he comes.

Hermione put her fred in her pocket and turned her attention to Draco.

"How are you doing?"
"Irritated at Potter. He never thinks."
"He is more of a doer. But he didn't mean to get us into trouble."
"I know."

"And what do we do now?"
"I don't know. Try to get some sleep I suppose. I hope you're not thinking of kicking me out. There is no way I am going to leave you alone after another attack."
"Don't worry. You can stay. I have a guest room or three."

"Good. Let's go. You need sleep."

They went upstairs and Hermione showed Draco one of the guest rooms on the third floor. Hermione suddenly noticed how Louis faded into Draco. She smiled and stroked his cheeks.

"Welcome back."
"Thank you," he said with a smirk. "It's good to be back."

She was about to leave when Draco grabbed her hand and pulled her into a hug. Then she heard his projected voice in her head.

+ You know. It would be easier for me to keep you safe if you were sleeping besides me. +

"And I thought Louis was the hopeless flirt?"
"He is. But he's not the only one who likes you."

Hermione considered his offer. She had to admit to herself that she liked the wizard in front of her right back. She had done so for a while now. And her own cold and empty bed was not particularly alluring at the moment. She would probably sleep better here after the events of today. That chandelier falling towards her could come haunting her in her nightmares. And then there was that other chandelier that fell at Malfoy Manor many years ago. Yes, she was likely to be haunted by nightmares tonight.

"Do you promise there will just be sleeping going on."
"Well, perhaps some snoring too."

"Do you snore?"
"I was assuming you would do the snoring."
"Never!"

"Just go brush your teeth, get some sensible pyjamas and crawl into bed besides me. I promise to behave. Ok?"
"Ok."