Well I finished my paper early, so I decided to take a well deserved break. Enjoy. :)

Ronald Weasley took his place at the altar. Late as always. Draco couldn't help the expression of disgust that took over his features.

He had promised to be civil and tolerant towards the red head. But he had his fingers crossed behind his back when he swore that oath.

He examined the flask briefly before taking another long drink from it.

Then another... And another

His insides burned intensely with the passage of the liquid, but it made him feel. The pain helped remind him of the dangers of forbidden love. It helped remind him of where he was. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand just as a familiar piece filled the room.

'Here comes the bride.'

A hauntingly dreamlike silence took over the congregation and the former Slitheryn looked up just in time to see the justification.

The bride entered the small church on the arm of Arthur Weasley. Draco's breath hitched in his throat.

She looked beyond beautiful. Bathed in the sunlight, an ethereal glow radiated from her very being.

She looked like the goddesses she would read to him about in her muggle storybooks. Ronald Weasley brushed away a tear at the mere sight of her, receiving a playful punch from his best man in return. The platinum haired man suddenly felt sick.

He clenched his jaw and his fists mirrored the action. His nails dug into his palms, threatening to draw blood. He couldn't be sure, but he could have sworn he heard her whisper his name as she passed by. Silently pleading with him to stop the pain he was inflicting on himself.

Perhaps the firewhiskey was playing tricks on him. Her face remained stoic, facing forward as she made her way down the aisle in time with the tune. Her gaze never straying from her destination. Hermione Granger clutched the bouquet of silver roses tightly.

He was here.

She had spotted him from the corner of her eye, wearing the shirt she had gifted him on his birthday. A stray tear fell from behind her veil. The bride quickened her pace. She didn't think her legs would hold her much longer. The gesture was taken as eagerness from anyone that noticed. Arthur Weasley himself couldn't help but chuckle at his daughter in law's anticipation.

For Draco the rest was a blur.

He could no longer hear or see anybody else. His eyes remained on her alone. He didn't hear the priest welcome the guests. He didn't hear them exchange vows. He didn't hear the man ask if anyone had any objections. When he snapped back into reality from his silent reverie, it was too late.

He cradled his head in his hands momentarily. A few stray tears fell to the ground. If you asked him about it now, he would probably tell you that it was the liquor taking hold of him. He pushed away from the pew, no longer able to bear anymore.

Hermione didn't dare allow her gaze to wander to back of the church. Shit, she didn't even have the courage to look him in the eye now. The doors opened just as the newly weds were pronounced and had their first official kiss, and Hermione did not hide the tears that flowed from her eyes.

What a cruel game fate plays with those who finally find happiness.

Oh, and if you like the story so far, let me know. It would be much appreciated. Thanks for reading!