Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter nor Pride and Prejudice.

(Hermione's POV)

Hermione was about to tear her hair out. She had spent all day trying to find an assistant, and it was proving to be a lost cause. Laura had managed to destroy her reputation by having sex with Ben, an Auror that had just been hired. Hermione, as the rest of other heads of departments, had found them going at it in her office. Her office of all places! The shocked faces of her co-workers had prompted her to close the door behind her, the sweaty faces of Laura and Ben hidden from view.

After she had gone back in her office, the culprits now fully dressed, she had fired Laura on the spot. And now, Hermione was faced with hiring an assistant that she could depend on not having sex on her mahogany desk. (She had to use a very strong disinfectant in order to feel like she could get near the offending desk.)

"Now, why should I hire you?"

"Well, I can be depended on and I can be trusted with any task. You can ask all my previous employers."

"I see that you are from America. Tell me, why did you decide to move to London?"

"I'm fresh out of college, and moving to London just seemed like the right choice for me."

"Will you betray my trust and have sex on my desk?"

"Um…Excuse me?"

"Would you consider having sex on my desk with another of your co-workers?" Hermione knew she was sounding a bit crazy, but at this point she was desperate.

"I'm sorry; I don't know what you mean."

"Yes or no? Simple answer."

"No."

"Well, then. You're hired."

"Really? Oh, thank you so much Ms. Granger."

Zoe gathered her things and unexpectedly grabbed Hermione's hands. "Thank you so much, really. You don't know how glad I am to be working for you. Thank you."

"Just be here by seven in the morning tomorrow." Zoe nodded her head.

Zoe Becker had been the tenth person to be interviewed, but ultimately the best. She was polite, yet a bit eccentric (she had purple highlights in her dark hair), clean (had great sense of fashion), but above all, seemed like she could be trusted. Plus, Hermione loved her American accent; it was refreshing. However, Hermione just knew that Zoe didn't seem like the person to embarrass her, unlike her previous assistant. She had only hired Laura to do Ron a favor, seeing as how she was an acquaintance of his. How Ron met her, she didn't want to know. Laura always dressed a bit slutty, in Hermione's opinion, with tight skirts and close fitting shirts. It was always disconcerting to watch passing men stare at Laura's legs with lusty eyes. But that was over and done, to which she was thankful.

Hermione was ready to go home, but had to ultimately finish the paperwork that had accumulated while she had been interviewing. She looked at her watch, it was already seven. Shoot, she was late to meet Ginny. She gathered all the folders, placed them in the drawer, and rummaged through her purse to find the keys to lock up. Shoot, where were they?

"Having trouble, Granger?"

"Ah!" Draco Malfoy stood behind her, leaning against her doorway, with his hands in his pockets.

"Thank you for scaring the living daylights out of me, Malfoy."

"My day is done, then," he chuckled. "No, I actually came to warn you about Adrian."

"What about Adrian?"

"He has been pestering nonstop about seeing you."

"I'm sorry about that."

"Yes, well I told him I would take him to work tomorrow. Meaning he will be attached to your side all day, therefore making you want to tear your hair out."

"Oh, don't be silly. Adrian is a sweetie, and I would be glad to have him as company tomorrow."

"Well, then; be prepared to face the wrath of a four year old. You have been warned. Have a good night, Granger." Malfoy turned around and walked out of her office.

She hesitated a moment before replying to his back, "Have a good night, Malfoy."

He raised a hand as he walked away, Hermione staring until he disappeared. She went back to her purse, finally finding her wretched keys and locked up. She hoped Ginny wouldn't be mad that she was running late.

Hermione apparated outside the Three Broomsticks, careful not to run into people as she speed-walked into the building. She spotted the red head sitting in a booth by the window and hurried over.

"What took you so long? I've been waiting here forever."

"Sorry, I had to find a new assistant. But anyway, how's it going?"

"Oh, Hermione, I'm just so happy."

"I know, honey. So, what do you think it's going to be? Boy or girl?"

"I don't know, but I really want it to be a little girl. Wouldn't it be so cute to be able to dress her up in pretty dresses? But, as long as it's healthy, I don't care if it's either."

"True. Oh! Guess what? Adrian is coming over tomorrow. Isn't that great?"

"Malfoy's kid? What for?" Ginny's face scrunched up a bit.

"Well, he wanted to see me and I just find him to be the cutest thing in the world."

"Really, and how about that hunk of a man that is his father?"

Hermione almost choked on her drink, her straw close to hitting the back of her throat. Her eyes widened, panic setting deep in her stomach, creating knots that tightened and caused pain. Draco Malfoy was not something that she was comfortable thinking about, let alone talking about. He was like an enigma, and he couldn't figure him out. It didn't help that she hadn't actually held a real conversation with him, only making him that much more out of reach. She felt like she was attracted to him, but didn't know why. That question had played over her head at night, right before going to bed, making her fall into a restless sleep. It was pointless feeling her attraction, for she knew he would never reciprocate. Of that, she was sure.

"Ginny!" Hermione's face flamed up. "Don't talk so loud, people can hear you!"

"What? You need some action once in a while, Hermione. I mean everybody does, and don't look at me like that." Hermione glowered at Ginny, discretely using her peripheral vision to see if anybody was snooping in their conversation. It seemed as if they were clear.

"Ginny, although Malfoy is very attractive, that is not why I like Adrian. Adrian is really nice and polite for someone his age." She hoped her attraction towards Malfoy wasn't that noticeable.

"Ok, you win. But, if I wasn't already married, I would totally jump him."

"You're impossible," Hermione growled.

"I know," Ginny chirped, before sipping her drink.

Hermione flooed to the Ministry earlier than usual, ready to give Zoe instructions on how things ran around here. She didn't want the poor girl to be overwhelmed by the end of the day.

"Hermione!" She felt the small arms of Adrian hug her.

"Hey, sweetie. I'm so glad you came today." He looked so cute today, his tiny shirt matching the color of his eyes.

"Me too, I finally convinced Dad to let me see you."

She heard footsteps behind her, the expensive shoes of Draco Malfoy clicking away. "Adrian, don't run away like that again. Sorry about that, Granger."

"It's no problem. Thank you for bringing Adrian with you."

She watched as Malfoy looked around, his eyes flittering, as if looking for someone. "Look, I have to go. Are you sure you can handle him."

"Yes, of course. C'mon honey. See you later Malfoy." He nodded, turning around, but not before giving her an inquisitive look that made her blush.

Hermione walked hand in hand with Adrian, noticing the way people stared at them. Was she really that anti-social that people had to stare when she was seen with someone else? She neared her office, seeing the purple highlights of Zoe.

"Good morning, Ms. Granger." The American crouched, to be level with Adrian. "And hello there. Aren't you just the cutest thing?"

"Good morning, Zoe. This is Adrian. And you can call me Hermione, no need for the honorific."

"I didn't know you had a son."

The comment caused Hermione to stop in her tracks, causing Adrian to bump into her. "Oh no, Adrian is not my son."

"He's not? You could've fooled me by the way you… never mind. Do you need anything Hermione? Coffee, juice for Adrian?"

"No, thank you. I'll call you if I need anything."

Hermione closed the door behind her, noticing how Adrian turned his little head towards the book shelve that was in the corner of the room.

"Do you like reading, Adrian?" He nodded his head, looking at her expectantly.

"Would you like me to read to you?" He smiled and walked towards the book shelve.

How interesting. Adrian reminded her of herself when she was young. Books always fascinated her, even at a young age. The way one could lose itself in the depths of a novel always amazed her, even today. She watched as Adrian picked her worn copy of Pride and Prejudice, her favorite. He brought the book over to her, and she sat him in her lap.

"Are you sure you want me to read this to you? Wouldn't you want another book?"

"No, this one."

"Ok, here goes." Adrian got comfortable and rested his head against her shoulder. "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife…"

(Draco's POV)

"I heard that Adrian is getting attached to your new girlfriend." Draco looked up to see Blaise Zabini standing in his office doorway.

"I don't know what you are talking about Blaise, and I don't want to figure it out," said Draco sardonically.

"Don't be daft Draco; you know who I'm talking about."

"I honestly don't know. You see, if you're referring to that bushy haired witch that is currently with my son, then I know we're not talking about the same person. Now, if you're referring to the blond haired beauty which office happens to be across from mine, then maybe, we're in the same track. You see, I don't find Granger the least bit attractive. I'm sure someone out there will eventually fall for her, maybe not. But, that she spends time with my son, has no effect on the fact that we are not even remotely close to being friends, let alone a couple."

Draco felt a pang of guilt build in his chest. He didn't understand it, considering he seldom experienced the feeling. His throat felt constricted, a lump forming, causing him to stop talking. Why was he feeling like this? He didn't feel any remorse when he insulted others, not even his father. Perhaps his son's feelings towards the witch were blocking him from saying anything further. The thought of hurting him was perhaps getting in the way. Yes, that might be it.

"You know Draco; sometimes I think you are either really blind or just plain stupid."

"I don't exactly know what you mean by that, Zabini."

"So now I'm Zabini."

"I don't like it when someone comes in and insults me."

"Well, sorry for hurting your feelings, princess." Blaise ran a hand through his hair, chuckling.

"I came here to tell you we're having a meeting in about twenty minutes, don't be late." Blaise walked out, but not before leaving behind a packet of what would be discussed in the meeting.

Draco was tired, but not as the feeling of dread that he had carried in his shoulders when he had been in charge of Malfoy Inc. when he was only nineteen. His day here only consisted of going over cases, determining whether to imprison or fine the accused.

When his father had been imprisoned, the task of handling the family business had seemed easy, only to be hit by a thousand different ways when in command. The employees were never happy; he had to work day and night, never catching a break. But when set free, his father had come back in all his glory, saving him from further headaches.

Draco stood from the desk, intent on forgetting the memory of his father. He did not need this right now. He stepped out of his office, hoping the meeting wouldn't be completely dull, as they often were.

(Hermione's POV)

Hermione gazed at the sleeping Adrian, aware that it was almost time to return him to his father. She finished her report, feeling almost giddy at the thought of going home earlier than usual. With the way Zoe was handling things, she was sure she had made the best decision in hiring the purple haired witch.

Tiny hands on her waist caused her to look down, finding Adrian awake. "I'm hungry, Hermione."

She blanked, not knowing what to say. She could ask Zoe to get something for him, but then Malfoy could get mad since he was probably on his way over here.

"Well, what do you want to eat?" The little boy frowned, thinking over her question. Without thinking, she sat him on her lap, combing over his unruly hair with her fingers.

"Spaghetti."

"Ok then, I'll tell Zoe to get you a plate." She was about to call Zoe when her door burst open, slightly jolting her senses. Malfoy stood in her doorway, for the second night in a row.

"Geesh, Malfoy. Do you always have to scare me when you come into my office?" Hermione held Adrian tighter, knowing Malfoy was going to take him away.

"Sorry about that. Are you ready to go Adrian?" She looked down to see the boy shake his head. She almost smile but held it back, not knowing how Malfoy would react.

"Can I go home with Hermione, Dad? Please?" The question surprised her, but she felt a certain warmth spreading throughout her body.

"Absolutely not."

"Why not?" Adrian slumped against her, his hair tickling her chin.

"I'm sure Granger has a lot of things to do. You wouldn't want to interrupt her plans, now would you?"

Hermione felt the strong gaze of Malfoy on her, pleading her to go along with him. She chose to ignore him, feeling selfish for once. "Actually Malfoy, I do not have any plans for tonight."

"It's Friday night, I'm sure you seem to be forgetting that you are going out."

"No, I'm certain I know my own agenda, Malfoy."

She felt Adrian straighten. "Can I Dad?"

Malfoy deliberated, looking into the hallway. "Fine, but you will behave. I don't want Granger to give me any complaints."

Adrian jumped off her lap, running to hug his father's legs. Hermione looked away, the bond between father and son too strong for her. She felt the loneliness hit her strongly; almost bringing tears to her eyes. As of lately, whenever she saw families on the streets, she would get a weird longing of being part of one. The thought was ludicrous, seeing as how she wasn't even dating anyone, less alone in a steady relationship. But, she couldn't help but feel she was missing out on being a wanted.

She thought of what she had whispered to Pansy and Ron.

She hugged Ron, feeling his body tense against hers, putting her nerves on end. She couldn't stop the tears that were escaping the confines of her eyes.

"I'm so happy for you, Ron. I'm glad you found your other half. I know that you will be forever happy with her. I see the way you look at her, and although it pains me to say it, you never looked at me that way. But, that is great. I know she is the one for you, the one who is going to complete your life."

Ron smiled. "Thanks, Mione. I mean it. You don't know what it means to me that you think that way about Pansy."

"Nonsense, why would I think otherwise? Everyone sees how much you adore her. I just wanted to congratulate you on picking wisely; Pansy is going to be a great wife," Hermione whispered.

She felt Ron's lips on her forehead, effectively bringing more tears to her eyes. She noticed Pansy's probing gaze and turned to her. Hermione didn't want her to think she had a rival, that was long gone. Her feelings for Ron had died, along with the rest of her heart.

"Pansy, I know you don't really know me. We've only talked a couple of times, and even then, it wasn't very productive. I just want you to know that if you ever need anything I'm always available. We are practically family now, so we are like sisters. If you want to talk, unwind after a long day, you can stop by my house anytime. You don't need to ask. I just wanted to tell you that you have make Ron the happiest man by accepting his proposal, and for that, I'm indebted to you. Ron deserves to be happy, and you have made that possible."

Pansy's sisterly kiss on the forehead was unexpected, but it calmed her nerves somewhat. She had to get out of here, she couldn't face seeing everyone so happy when her insides were about to burst from how lonely she felt.

"What time should I pick up Adrian tomorrow?" The question jolted her out of her thoughts.

"Whatever time you feel like picking him up is fine with me; I don't have any prior engagements that I need to attend." She tried not to stare into his eyes, instead turning her head to stare at her worn out copy of Jane Austen most famous novel.

"Well, then I guess I'll see you tomorrow, Granger." She saw as he crouched down and kiss Adrian's head lightly before standing ramrod straight and nodding his head at her before leaving her office. She smiled at Adrian, standing up as she gathered her bag.

"Ready to go home?" He nodded enthusiastically, running out of her office. She locked up, this time finding her keys easily.

"You can go home, Zoe. I'm done for the day."

"Ok, Hermione. Hope you have a good weekend." Zoe smiled, her eyes crinkling at the ends.

"You too, Zoe. Take care."

Hermione grabbed Adrian's hand before making her way over to the fireplace, stepping into her home, aware that she hadn't had time to clean in the week. Great, now Malfoy would know that her home was a mess.

"Do you still want some spaghetti, dear? I can make it for you." Hermione made her way into the kitchen, the little boy trailing behind her.

She sat Adrian on the counter, away from the stove, not wanting anything tragic to happen. Hermione boiled the pasta, making small talk with the blond haired boy.

"So, who takes care of you when your dad is at work?" She asked, curious about him.

"My Grandma Cissa," he answered cheerfully. "She plays with me and sings to me. She is my second favorite person in the world."

"Really? Then who is your first?"

"Dad," he answered, as if it was the most obvious option. She nodded her head, smiling at his tone of voice.

"And, you are my third most favorite person in the whole wide world."

His words almost made tears sprout from her eyes. She turned her head, not wanting him to see her unshed tears. This little boy was affecting her once stable emotions, making her seem like some weak little girl. She sighed, and then felt a smile come to her lips.

"But you don't even know me that well, honey."

"I know that you are nice, and smell good, and you are really pretty. And, you're really nice to me." He stuck out his chin, as if daring her to say something to contradict him.

"Well, I won't change your mind then," Hermione chuckled, while giving him a plate of food. "Here, be careful. It's hot, so don't burn your tongue."

She watched as he wolfed down the plate, ignoring her comment about the food being hot. He almost inhaled the plate, which in turned caused her to laugh. Adrian handed her back the empty plate, nothing left in sight.

"Ready to go to sleep?" she asked him, aware that it was almost nine. She wasn't sure what time he went to bed, but she didn't want him to be missing out on his sleep. Hermione set him on his feet, grabbing his hand as she made her way upstairs. She looked for some old pajamas Harry had left from some time ago once they entered her room and shrunk them to fit the little boy. "Here, put these on, honey. The bathroom is through that door."

Adrian followed her directions and stepped out, the blue top bringing out the color in his eyes. He looked so cute, to which she couldn't help but hug him, an action that surprised her. "Let's go brush our teeth, yes?"

Adrian grimaced but nonetheless followed her and took the toothbrush that was handed to him. She laughed as he brushed his teeth almost robotically, the brush moving in exact motions. When they both finished, he climbed into her bed, snuggling against her pillow. The action brought a sentimental pang to her chest, picturing a caricature of what could never be. She got into bed, with Adrian hugging her arm. As she was drawn into the lullaby of near sleep, she couldn't help but pull Adrian a little closer, feeling a little less empty.

A/N: Hey, there! Sorry for taking so long on updating. There is really no excuse for my behavior. But I did write two One-Shots, so you guys could check them out.

Please review. Tell me what you think. That would make me extremely happy, thus making me write faster.