A/N: Here's the update. It's a bit angsty, but hang in there.
Hermione moved to the Atrium. She saw Lyra speaking with her parents on one side of the room. Severus was with them; he looked as if he would rather be anywhere else. Her eyes scanned the area, looking for Draco. She had one more form requiring his signature before they could adjourn for the day. To Hermione's shock, she spied Draco talking with Oliver Wood. They were situated well away from the rest of the group. She turned and walked over to the two men.
"Draco," she smiled, approaching, "I have some forms for you to sign when you get a moment."
"Oliver, it's good to see you. You're looking well," she said honestly. Oliver looked better than she'd seen him in years. He had regained the fire of his youth. He looked back the way she remembered him when he had been married to Katie. It pleased her immensely.
"Thank you, Hermione. I hear your case went well today." He gave her a friendly smile, but then his attention seemed to wander. Hermione looked over her shoulder to see what had caught his attention. Hermione saw Lyra talking to her parents. Looking stunning as always, Lyra looked over towards them; she gave the three of them a glowing smile. Oliver's eyes glazed over. Hermione laughed inwardly. Typical.
"I hope so. We won't know until tomorrow. But all of the witnesses did better than I could have expected."
"That was good work in there Granger," Draco drawled. "There's really no need for the false modesty in this crowd."
"Well, someone has to balance you and your bravado out, Malfoy." Hermione shot back, but her words were light and playful.
"Well, Hermione, I've never known you to lose an argument." Oliver gave her a friendly smile. She laughed. She and Oliver had never really quarreled, but they were both extremely competitive by nature and knew that about each other.
"It doesn't happen often," she offered.
"No, no it doesn't." Oliver was now looking over Hermione's shoulder, unhappily this time. Curious, she glanced behind her to see what Oliver was looking at so intently. Hermione saw Severus talking with Professor Flitwick.
"Professor Snape looks well," Oliver commented coldly. Hermione cringed. It wasn't like Oliver to be unkind. She reminded herself quietly that few people knew Severus as he was today. The Professor Snape of her childhood evoked that reaction in many of her peers.
"His research suits him," Hermione nodded. "I think the quiet life he's been living over the past few years has done him much good."
"I'm sure," Oliver choked out. Hermione was again taken aback. Oliver noticed her reaction, and quickly controlled his own.
"Well, I won't keep you two from your business." Oliver turned back to Draco for a moment. "Thank you for the advice, Draco. Have a good day."
"I mean what I said, Wood. This is a matter that should be dealt with soon." Draco's face was serious. Oliver nodded thoughtfully. Hermione was curious what they could be discussing, but knowing Draco and Oliver, it was probably some Quidditch situation that she wouldn't care about or understand. Oliver turned and left. Hermione was aware that Draco was watching her face with some interest. Hermione opened her briefcase and pulled out some papers for Draco to sign. She explained to him that they were the request to lower the amount of the fines Percy had proposed. He read over them quickly and signed them for her.
"Thank you, Draco. I will see you tomorrow."
"Actually, Granger, Astoria wanted me to invite you to dinner this evening. Seven o' clock at the Manor." Hermione nodded. She would enjoy seeing Astoria and Scorpius. Draco crossed over to his father and they were soon engrossed in conversation. Looking across the room, Hermione noticed that Lyra had disappeared. With a smile, Hermione observed Narcissa talking with her sister. Astoria had told her at one point that Narcissa and Andromeda had reconciled after the war. She was glad to see them rebuilding their relationship. Severus was still a bit removed from the group. He looked distinctly uncomfortable with the attention he was getting from the various members of the Wizengamot. Hermione decided to take pity on him.
As she approached, she adopted her official demeanor once again. "Master Snape," she said calmly and clearly, "if it isn't too much trouble, we have some official matters to discuss. If you could accompany me to my office, it would be appreciated." He looked momentarily perplexed at her tone and the fact that she had used his title. Comprehension quickly dawned, and he nodded imperceptibly, before grousing mildly for the benefit of the onlookers. Hermione led him over to the Floo. She told him her office address and then stepped through the Floo.
Severus followed shortly thereafter and stepped out behind her.
"Thank you, Hermione. I forget sometimes how much I loathe the Ministry."
"Not a problem, Severus. It must be quite a shock after the serenity of the Manor."
"Yes. There are few outside the Manor whose company I enjoy."
Hermione's face fell. "Well, I won't keep you. Feel free to use the Floo." She turned her back.
"Hermione, you can't think I meant you." She remained with her back facing him. "Hermione … "
"What?"
"Turn around." She did not comply. He crossed over and put his hand on her shoulder. "In case it is not clear to you, I enjoy your company very much. Over the past few weeks, I have come to value your friendship more than I want to admit." She turned around.
"You do? You consider me a friend?" Her eyes were hopeful.
Severus warred with himself. Oh, how he knew that was a lie. He did not view her as a friend at all. He saw an attractive, vibrant woman, who tested him and provoked him in ways he wasn't ready to admit to her or to himself. He chose the safest answer possible. "I enjoy our time together, Hermione."
"As do I, Severus." She looked at up at him again with those eyes. Those damn, beautiful, soft eyes that haunted his thoughts when he was alone. She bit her lip, and then said with much caution, "I certainly hope that we will continue to have time to visit after the case is over."
"I would like that." He gave her a half smile.
"I'll be at the Manor tonight for dinner. Will I see you there?"
"No, I will be away from the Manor this evening."
"Oh, well, then I shall see you tomorrow." Hermione tried to hide her disappointment; she was unsure how successful she was.
"Very well, Hermione. Thank you again for your help with this case. This work means a lot to all of us."
"You are very welcome, Severus. It is important work, I can see that."
He nodded and stepped through the Floo.
Several hours later, Astoria greeted Hermione warmly in the parlor. "How are you, Hermione?"
"Good, thank you. How are you feeling?"
"Quite well, thank you. It will just be the five of us for dinner tonight. Lyra and Severus have plans this evening." Hermione felt her stomach drop out. Her disappointment at not seeing Severus was nothing compared to the ache she felt at hearing that he had plans with Lyra.
"How is Scorpius?" Hermione changed the subject quickly.
"My-nee! " A tiny voice answered, and Scorpius ran into the room. Draco followed, laughing.
"I couldn't keep up with him. Once he heard your voice, Hermione, he was off like a broom. Between you and Severus, I'm not sure who he gets more excited to see."
Hermione bounced Scorpius about while she chatted with her friends. Lucius and Narcissa joined them a few minutes later. Astoria announced it was time for Scorpius to go up to bed a few minutes later. She was feeling fatigued from the pregnancy, so Narcissa offered to put little Scorpius to bed, which Astoria graciously accepted.
Lucius looked uncharacteristically uncomfortable. Draco smiled. "Father needs an extra drink this evening. It seems he had a conversation earlier this evening that has left him unsettled." Draco crossed to the sideboard and poured his father a drink.
Lucius shot his son a look. "Draco, your time will come, son. Even though I am happy about the turn of events, it still leaves one feeling nostalgic."
"I do not remember this type of fanfare when Astoria and I were courting."
"Well, son, I'm not sure what to say, except that it's different with a daughter. I know Lord and Lady Greengrass had similar feelings, even though they were thrilled at the union."
"I'm just glad he has finally decided to move forward. Whatever her hesitation, she loves him."
"Draco, this conversation has become unseemly in front of Miss Granger. Do forgive us." Lucius gave a polite nod. She smiled weakly. Hermione had gone stark white. She was extremely grateful for Lucius' intervention. While she found nothing untoward about the conversation under normal circumstances, she was nevertheless feeling her stomach turn at the thought.
"Granger, are you feeling ill?" Draco sounded concerned. Then comprehension dawned. "Oh, Merlin. Granger, I'm sorry. I thought you knew they were an item."
She looked at Draco in shock. He long had he known about her feelings for Severus?
"I think I need to go home. I'm sorry for my rudeness. Draco, please give my apologies to Astoria and your mother. I'm not feeling well at all." Hermione bolted to the Floo. Upon arriving in her flat, she collapsed onto the sofa, her heart heavy with the information she had obtained. After the exchange in her office, she had let herself start to hope. Now, she was crushed.
The following morning, Hermione pulled herself together. She was a professional; she could handle this. When she entered the courtroom, she greeted her clients politely and sat down to wait for the members of the Wizengamot to enter.
Minister Shacklebolt addressed the room. "Ladies and gentleman, the members to the Wizengamot have discussed the case extensively. We are prepared to issue our decision now. "
Amos Diggory spoke, "It is the opinion of this court that the work done by Malfoy Industries and Black Pharmaceuticals should be allowed to continue. The good done by the products should not be stifled by blind adherence to ancient laws. To stop their distribution would be disruptive to the Muggle medical world. Not only would it harm Muggles, but it would also draw more attention to our world than allowing the products to remain in circulation.
"However, it cannot continue without monitoring and regulation. As this work is unprecedented, the Wizengamot hereby authorizes the creation of Regulation of Magical Product Distribution Office. This department will report through the Improper Use of Magic Office. Any product that any wizard wishes to market to Muggles will have to seek approval through this office. The office will work with the Muggle Liaison Office to ensure that all proper licenses are obtained through the Muggle authorities.
"However, Malfoy Industries has broken the law. Regardless of the outcome, we cannot have companies or individuals taking the law into their own hands. As such, we will impose sanctions on Malfoy Industries for their past illegal actions.
"We have received both the Advocate Weasley's proposal for sanctions and the counteroffer from Malfoy Industries. The Wizengamot is prepared to accept the counteroffer from Malfoy Industries.
"Thank you, ladies and gentleman of the Wizengamot. Advocate Weasley, Advocate Granger, the Wizengamot thanks you for your service as well. This court is adjourned." Hermione didn't move at first. People started milling around her, shaking her hand and congratulating her. She smiled graciously, thankful for the recognition, but secretly aching to get away from this whole scene.
Hermione turned to Draco. He was beaming. Lyra also looked extremely pleased. Severus' face showed relief, and interestingly determination.
"Draco, congratulations," Hermione offered warmly. "I am pleased that the work started by your business will be allowed to continue."
"We couldn't have done it without you, Granger. Tell me, what would it take to get you on my staff permanently?"
"Corporate law isn't my specialty, Draco. Defending the downtrodden is my area of expertise. Hopefully, this is the only time you meet that criteria." She managed a cheeky smile.
"Granger, the door's always open if you change your mind. Malfoy Industries or Malfoy Foundation, either one of them could use another good attorney." Hermione raised her eyebrow. She hadn't realized he was offering her a position with the charitable organization now run by Mrs. Malfoy, with assistance from her husband, son, and daughter-in-law.
"I'll keep it in mind, Ferret."
"You do that." Draco started to exit the room to catch up with his parents. Severus was standing right behind him.
"And Severus," she forced a smile. "I suppse that means it is back to the lab for you. Good luck in the future, sir." He looked perplexed by her distance.
"Thank you Hermione." He turned and started to leave the courtroom.
"Lyra, it has been lovely to work with you." Hermione offered her hand to the blonde. "Congratulations to you as well; you have done a great deal of good here today. You have set a wonderful example for non-magical people trying to live their lives in both worlds. I hope you continue to do so."
"Thank you, Hermione. You have been wonderful to all of us."
"Congratulations on your engagement as well," Hermione whispered, motioning to the beautiful ring that adorned Lyra's left ring finger.
Lyra paled. "Thank you." She paused. "I didn't know what you would think. I was afraid it would be awkward."
"You both deserve to be happy."
Lyra's smile turned genuine. "Please look for an owl from Mother and Father soon." She smiled sweetly. Hermione felt like she was going to be ill. She took a moment to compose herself. Lyra turned and exited the courtroom.
Hermione took a minute by herself. Or at least she thought she was alone. Severus remained in the doorway of the room watching her intently. Draco had passed by a few moments before. He had watched the exchanged with Lyra. He felt a pang of guilt for eavesdropping, but he found he couldn't look away. Lyra's engagement was obviously upsetting for Hermione. Apparently, Hermione hadn't moved on from her prior relationship as well as she had thought. When he had talked with her before of Oliver's new love interest, she had been all smiles and support. Now news of Oliver's engagement to Lyra seemed to be devastating to Hermione. She was trying to be gracious, but it was clearly hurting her. Severus felt sure it wasn't Oliver she was pining. Perhaps this development was bringing back her grief over Viktor. Or, maybe, she was simply feeling alone. He certainly understood that.
Severus didn't know whether or not it was his place to intervene. He heard something behind him. He turned to see Harry Potter watching him watch Hermione.
"Mr. Potter, can I help you?"
"I was just coming back by to congratulate Hermione. It wasn't appropriate to say anything before with the other members of the Wizengamot present. I'm actually surprised she's still here. I would have thought she would have been celebrating. But, she sure doesn't look like she's celebrating."
"Perhaps, Mr. Potter, as her oldest friend, you should go see what is bothering her."
"Why are you standing here watching her?"
"I was going to thank her for her help with the case. Ironically, Mr. Potter, we share something in common her, as I had hoped to speak with her without an audience. However, given that she looks upset, I shall speak with her later. Go comfort her, Mr. Potter."
Harry smirked. Was it possible Snape actually had feelings for Hermione also? Harry thought he must. That seemed to be the only thing that would prompt Snape to say anything to Harry that remotely resembled a compliment. Even implying that Harry was a good friend surely had to give Snape pain. Harry shook his head to clear it and entered the courtroom to speak to Hermione again. Severus turned and walked away.
"Hermione, you were fantastic. Congratulations."
"Harry!" She gave him a hug, her face losing some of its prior gloom. "Thank you."
"Are you okay?"
"I, well, no I'm not."
"What has happened?"
"They're engaged."
"Who?"
Hermione looked irritated. "Severus and Lyra. He asked her last night. I had the distinct joy of listening to Lucius Malfoy was poetic about his little girl getting married to the man I'm in love with. Oh, Lucius didn't know about my feelings of course. Draco knows though. I humiliated myself, running from the Manor like an embarrassed child. After yesterday, I really thought there was a chance."
"What happened yesterday?" Harry was incensed. It was one thing if her feelings had been hurt accidentally, but if someone had mistreated Hermione, there would be hell to pay.
"Nothing really. We just had a really good conversation. It felt like the door was open. Nothing was said about a romantic relationship, but there was a clear implication of spending more time together. And then I find out that he was going off to propose to her last night! As if that would be appropriate with him engaged to another woman!"
"Hermione, I'm so sorry. Let's get you out of here." Harry wrapped his arms around his friend. She leaned into him for a moment, and he tried to comfort her. It didn't make sense. Snape wasn't the type to tease a woman. Why in the world would he have given her the impression that he wanted a deeper relationship with her if he did not?
"And then I have to watch her being all glowy today, and I have to try to be gracious. She even acknowledged that it might be awkward, and I had to lie and pretend I'm okay with it."
Harry led her to the Floo and to his home. Ginny greeted her husband and friend. She tried to comfort Hermione, but she was still reeling from the events of the past 24 hours. The children provided significant distraction, and she was able to pass the evening with no further tears.
A/N: I will explain more about how in the the world this turn of events occurred in later chapters. A couple chapters ago, Oliver's girlfriend was identified as a Muggle. This was another misunderstanding. Oliver was evasive with Ginny about Lyra's background, only saying that she was non-magical. Ginny assumed that meant Muggle rather than Squib. Oliver was a bit afraid of Ginny's reaction if he had identified his girlfriend as a Malfoy and he just didn't want to deal with her.