Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter, as we all know. However, I do own the plot, and it's starting to get the shape I want it to.

Wind

"Why did you run after me like that?" She sounded just like an annoying little child.

Why had he? He felt offended by the mere question, he decided. He huffed in frustration and stared in disbelief down at the bushy-haired witch.

"Are you not going to answer me?" Hermione sighed, but realized she might have been pushing it just slightly too far. She felt a bit annoyed by the dramatics they tended to get themselves overwhelmed by.

Draco opened his mouth as to speak several times. Eventually he simply closed his eyes and drew a deep breath. "I was mad." he started, still with his eyes closed. "At you." He looked at her now, his mouth tight in restrain. "For running off, leaving me to clean up."

Hermione pursed her lips at him. "I guess I was right then. You're a spoiled prat!"

"You're correct. I usually have my potions partner do all the clean up." Draco stated nonchalantly.

Hermione snorted in annoyance.

"However," Draco held up a finger at her. "I used to have to do all the cleaning when I was studying back at home. With professor Snape."

Yet again Hermione was taken off guard with such newfound information about this presumed horrible bad-boy. She could not decide if he sounded happy or sad about this fact. It seemed that both held a bitter-sweet affection for their childhood memories, no matter good or bad.

"Let's just go." she mumbled and headed through the giant doors. The fresh air stroke their hair, caressed it in all angles. Strands and curls flew alike.

It did not matter who took the steps on the ground, the grass reacted the same. No matter Hermione's breath or Draco's they both mixed into the open wind. It was not silent, there were plenty of sounds, albeit the late hour. An almost bass-like sound vibrated the grounds in a soothing matter; hoofs and giant bodies moved in the forest to their right.

Hermione shivered when she finally entered the green house. She could finally drop her shoulders. The chilly winds had the damp air frizzle her hair, along with her body. Finally in the confines of the stuffy, yet warm, green houses she could relax.

Draco slung his bag onto the nearest table. He looked around in the unused green house. All through there were connecting doors leading further down the green house. The moon was shining down the many cracked windows, lightning up the endless amount of wreckage that had been done. Draco had to take a minute just to let it sink in. "Where should we even start?"

"I… I don't know…" The two stood in the beginning of the first room, watching the destruction. Memories flooding their vision.

"I guess we could start with this one?"

Draco nodded shortly. "Let's."

As if they had decided to do so, they took a simultaneous deep breath before moving.

Draco started working on a pair of planters down by the corner, close to the next section, while Hermione started on cleaning up the dead mandrakes and soil on the floor in the opposite corner. Time passed on in a painful silence. The company was fairly welcomed, however. No, it was the memories that haunted their minds. Memories of the war. The fight, the struggles. The losses.

The endless darkness.

Draco was working on a particularly nasty spot when a shriek broke the dim silence. Immediately he jumped to his feet, wand at the ready. He looked up to find Granger struggling with the giant Venomous Tentacula a few feet away. A little surprised by the situation at hand, he hesitated.

Hermione struggled with the vine, using all her power to keep the spikes at bay. "Do something!" A vine shot around her waist, keeping a steady grip around her full body.

"Diffindo!" he finally shouted, and Hermione fell to the floor. The plant reluctantly retracted its wounded vine and went back to brew in the corner.

Malfoy took the few steps that were left between the them and bent down to grab her.

Hermione hit the floor in a painful metting of knees and cement. When she felt a cold hand wrap around her arm shrew it out of its grip.

"What's wrong with you? I'm not overly pleased about touching you either, mudblood!"

Hermione stared. His mood had switched faster than a flash. "I can get up myself." she said, frustration replaced with anger.

"Someone is in a bad mood."

"You are the one to talk!" Hermione retorted as she painfully got up from the ground.

"I'm not the one who can't accept help, let alone thank someone if they, against all odds, do." Draco turned his back on her, in attempt to go back to his unfinished corner.

Hermione, not in the mood to be pushed down further was quick to respond. "I can accept help." Even in her own ears she sounded like a little child.

Draco turned around, grabbing the bait, not being able to let it slide. "From who? Name me one person."

"Harry." She quickly spat.

"No, you are the one who helps him. He gives you advice. That is very different, Granger."

"I believe its quite close to the same thing." No I don't. "What about you then?" Frustration and anger lacing her every word.

Draco gave her a puzzled look. "I don't need help. It's as simple as that."

"Neither do I."

"I would have to beg to differ." He muttered and went back to his corner.

As much as she wished to mutter under her breath, or even yell in his face, she decided it was wisest not to. She did not wish to be thrown into the Venomous Tentacula. One battle was far more than enough.

The atmosphere was not as friendly and easy as it had been earlier, and Hermione could not but help to ponder over this fact. Letting people in was not as easy as reading about it. After countless novels, short stories and factual books she should be more equipped for these sort of situation. She wanted to believe that she was ready, yet her actions spoke otherwise. A book can be read from cover to cover, it can be memorized, but its information cannot be practiced unless the will is there. What is stopping me?

"We should head back." a voice behind her made her jump. She realized then that she has a new found tendency to do this rather often nowadays. What was she scared of? There is nothing to be scared of, she told herself, yet she knew the feeling wouldn't simply go away just because she told it to.

Hermione swallowed hard, yet collected herself. "Yes, we probably should. Do you have the time?"

Draco whom had been looking at the great clock just a little while ago answered calmly "I believe it's almost 2am."

"Already?" she made big eyes at him. "Time flies."

"Yes. Time flies." Draco repeated slightly more bemused than the witch.

As the both walked through the dark night, along the slim path, Hermione felt happy she was not alone.

The next morning the alarm went off much too early, the toothpaste was too sticky, the clothes were too wrinkly, the hair too frizzy, the bathroom too crowded. Agonizing sounds were altered between the tired two, as they both struggled with their morning routines.

By the time they were done with charms they were both close to dead. Lunch was much appreciated.

"I need a nap." Hermione rubbed her temples as she was leaning her elbows against one of the many dining hall tables.

Ginny smiled at her knowingly. "Rough night?"

"If!" Hermione shook her head. "No, it actually wasn't bad. At least not as bad as it could have been."

"That's good, keep that positive attitude going." she cheered on.

"What is our next class?" Harry asked, putting down his pumpkin juice.

"Transfigurations." Hermione mumbled.

"You keep track of everyone's schedule?" Ginny laughed.

"No, it's one of the classes we have together. It's not a required NEWTs level class, however we all need to take it this first semester."

"I'm guessing you're taking it both semesters."

Hermione smiled back at Harry. "You know me too well."

Ginny laughed at the two. "Anyone could guess that Harry!"

Hermione felt herself blush, yet she also felt pride. It was after all one of her quirky traits. A reputation almost. Just like the sneaky slytherin had his reputation, she had hers.

Transfiguration was its usual structured self and went by rather fast. They all seemed better than what the teachers had been anticipating and were happy to inform them they probably would not need the whole semester for recaps (much to Harry's excitement).

When class finished the students separated into their houses as they all walked down to dinner.

"I will catch up with you, I am just going to drop off my bag in my room." Hermione waved to Harry and Ginny. Ron was there too, of course, however they tried not to interact yet. For everyone's sake. Lavender bounced next to him, arm in arm.

It made her feel sick.

Not as badly as she had the days after, and not as she had anticipated. She had a feeling it did not have much to do with jealousy against the little woman, but rather a jealousy for a relationship. A jealousy of love, because she wanted it too. No matter how strong she was, and people thought of her as, she still yearned for someone to melt for, and someone to melt for her, the way the two dip-shits did. Excuse my language, she thought to herself grimly.

Once in the common room she dropped off the bag on the couch. They had not had any visitors, and could safely presume it would stay that way. Looking over at one of the shelves she noticed a non-factual section.

She moved to start tracing the backs of the books in front of her, calmly collecting dust on the tip of her finger. An old copy of "The Beauty and The Beast" caught her attention. Pulling it out dust swoon around her feet. Poor book must have been there since the dawn of time!

She put the book under her arm before heading back out again. It was quite close to the great hall, which she really appreciated.

"What do you got there?" Harry asked politely, noticing Hermione pushing an old book onto the table.

"I found this old version of Beauty and the Beast!" she wiped it with her sleeve, and studied the still cover. A beautifully illustrated cover of a woman in a monster's grip.

"It's old alright." Ron muttered and coughed loudly.

Ginny rolled her eyes before adding to the conversation. "Oh, shut up. What book is that? I don't wanna read it, though. But you could give me the recap, ey?"

Hermione smiled at her. "Of course, Ginny. It's a beautiful love story actually. It was a while since I read it, so it should be a pleasant read."

"Any hot guys in it?"

"Well, it's about loving what is on the inside, not letting the outside be ruling love."

"How deep. But, if there's no hot guys it's not for me."

"The beast in the story actually turns out to be a beautiful prince."

"I'm listening!"

"Thought that would catch your attention." Hermione laughed at her silly friend. "I will let you know what happens as I read it. I have not read the original version, and judging by the looks of the book itself I have high hopes this might be it." she rested a hand on the book before she spoke to her plate to receive her dinner.

Mashed potatoes, carrots and sausages with eggs. Deliciously made. The pumpkin juice was slightly sweeter than usual.

With a whole sausage on the fork Seamus saw it fit to plan for the evening. "Does anyone wanna go off to the lake later?"

"Hey, stop waving your sausage around." Hermione demanded with a pained expression. "You will poke someone's eye out."

Ron squirted out his pumpkin juice through his nose.

"That's what she said!" Roger Davies yelled.

"Oh, real mature, Davies." she rolled her eyes at him.

The others around the table couldn't hold their laughter any longer and bursted out laughing. It took several minutes before they all managed to calm down. Meanwhile even Hermione had not managed to keep her mouth from smiling slightly.

"I'm on." Harry finally said. "If Ginny wants to go, of course?" He turned to his girlfriend.

"I don't mind. Should I bring my bathing clothes?" she asked.

"That's a great idea!" Seamus agreed.

"I wanna go too!" Lavender squeaked. "I'll bring my bikini."

Ron smiled smugly at her then at Harry. "We're coming along too then I suppose."

"Great, how about we go now? We anyways all have to go get our swimming stuff, right?"

"Why not." Harry shrugged, and pushed his plate away. "Are you coming along Hermione?"

"I can't, I have Care of Magical Creatures. But I could always step by after it's done."

Ginny smiled at her. "We'd love that. Do you want us to wait for you? We can always stay in the common room for a while."

"No, don't worry, you all go ahead. I don't want to ruin your fun."

Ginny grabbed her shoulder quickly before leaving the table. The rest of the group were fast to follow.

Hermione who hadn't finished her meal yet stayed still in her seat, suddenly left alone by the table. She poked at her carrots before deciding she had lost her appetite.

"Might as well go get my books." she mumbled. The class was not for another hour, which would give her some time to start her newfound book, at least.

Walking through the corridor her steps echoed through the empty hall. In the distance one could hear a heavy door opening and closing. Joyful voices filled the hall before disappearing through another door. Hermione listened to the even steps of her own two feet.

A low sound caught her attention. It rose and fell, almost like a heart beat. It cracked, before disappearing. Maybe it's peeves messing about, she thought and continued on to her room.

Once inside she collected the needed books before heading down to Hagrid's. The idea was to have both second-, third- and forth- years together in one group, and fifth-, sixth- and seventh years together in another. Given the lack of students this year, as well as the demanded group of students needed for the class activities this seemed like the best option.

Hermione moved along the little green path leading down to Hagrid's hut. The birds sang and whistled, the wind sang along. breathing in the fresh air Hermione could not help but feel calm and happy. She fought the urge to take off her shoes once she reached the garden outside Hagrid's hut. Sitting down on one of the stones she pushed her feet through the long strands of weeds, watching them caress her black shoes. They tickled her knees, and she reached down to touch the them. They felt cold, yet so full of life.

Eventually she picked up her copy of Beauty and The Beast and started reading the old text. The words fell beautifully into sentences forming long paragraphs or poetry. Hermione let the story touch her mind, and felt grateful for its existence.

She was so enticed by the old thing that she did not even notice the students that had gathered by the hut. She only looked up once the first chapter was finished, and the big crowd gave her quite a surprise.

Once Hagrid came out to greet them she noticed she was the only seventh year in the class. It made her feel a bit uncomfortable. Possibly a bit worried as well. After all, she was the only one who had to pass a NEWTs test in the subject at the end of the school year. Hopefully Hagrid had planned for her attendance.

"'Ermine!" Hagrid grumbled and took big steps towards her. She came quick onto her feet and embraced the half-giant's belly. He reminded her of a young santa clause, with his giant heart and endless warmth. Not to mention looks.

Class went by faster than anyone would first have thought. Hagrid was engaging them all in the new animals introduced to them. The adorable mooncalves had been both energetic and demanding, but obviously caught their hearts.

They received their own equipment list of things they needed in order to care for them. There was, quite a lot to borrow, however, so there was no rush. Hermione made a mental note to make sure to get it all in Hogsemade over the weekend.

Feeling exhausted, but satisfied, Hermione and the other students left Hagrid. Hermione said bye to the Dennis Creevey as she excused herself to go meet the others by the lake.

Although her exhaustion after a busy day, she still felt in quite a good mood. Today she had night patrol with Malfoy, but not even that could break her spirit.

She walked through the green trees, listening to the many voices ahead. Some students were walking back to the castle and passed her along the way, greeting her with a smile. A lot of people seemed to be out today. It was a beautiful evening, with a sky that was full of life. Birds flew through the open air, enjoying the warmth and company.

Hermione could see the water peeking through the corner once she came close enough. The surface was reflecting the trees and the leaves. Even the birds could be seen on the mirror. However it was being disturbed by the air blowing on it, as well as the many students entering the water.

Hermione would never step foot in that lake. First of all, it was dangerous. Had no one seen the giant squid? Second of all, she did not feel like exposing herself to everyone. No it was better to stay on dry land. Where it was safe. No need to over do it with the dangers, there had been plenty of it for a life time already.

She walked through the crowds yet could not find the Gryffindors she was searching for. She hopped up on one of the big rocks and looked out over the water to see if maybe they were in the water. They were no where to be found.

Could they have left already? It had been some time since lunch after all. Maybe they had.

Hermione felt defeated and decided there was no point staying there. With quick steps she left the beach and entered the castle again. Once inside the big school she made her way to the library. Not even half way there she stopped. Hermione bit her cheek, pondering her options. As much as she loved the library, she really wished to be left alone at the moment, given she was. Instead she turned around and walked to her dorm.

The fire was on already, and Hermione felt welcomed. Yet she walked into her own room and decided to read her book now when she anyways had time for it.

Making the many, fluffy pillows comfortable behind her she opened her book and entered the world of Beauty and The Beast. Many minutes passed, and too soon even hours. Completely absorbed by the enchanting words Hermione took a second to reflect on the happenings in the book.

The Beast had started to notice the woman's inner beauty, as she had noticed his. He had already started to treat her as beautifully as she deserved. Much to Hermione's own surprise she felt saddened by this.

She felt a tear slipping down her cheek. One single, lonely droplet of salty water slowly caressed her skin. She wanted to wipe it off, but her hands were not compiling. Soon there was another tear following the already made path. A tear stream was formed. One on the other cheek soon followed, when the eye couldn't withhold the liquid any longer.

She shouldn't be crying about these type of things. They're happy and jolly. Adorable and cute. And that made her heart ache.

When had she ever received such cuteness and adoration? The stabbing pain grew stronger with every drop that touched the pages of the book in her hands. The only time she had received anything remotely cute, was when Krum had asked her to the ball. Possibly his friendly summer letters. Other than that the few other moments had been out of desperation; she had been a last resort.

However, she had always hung on to those moments, making them seem more romantic than they had actually been. Making them meaningful. Making herself meaningful. What they had in these type of books, she wanted it, whatever it was. But it was not real, not in her life, at least. Fiction. Words on a page, a story, a beautiful dream.

Meaningful, is what all she wanted to be. Not to the war, to peace, to the world or even to knowledge. But rather to someone. At this point it didn't matter who, as long as she got to feel wanted, needed and loved. She craved so desperately for someone to not take her for granted, to love her like no one else ever had.

With Ronald things had been less than romantic, if even that. Where she had originally gotten frustrated with him, he had started to get just as angry with her. All for such small and stupid things. Isn't it always like that? Small and stupid. However, she felt guilty, like maybe she caused his anger, and deserved it somehow. Whenever it was uncalled for or out of the blue, she saw only herself as the cause of these outbursts. Bursts that stayed and made Ron grim and mellow. It brought everyone down. Apart from Harry, who constantly seemed to be caught in his own thoughts, busy with some puzzle he was solving in his head. Alike Luna, in a sense.

She would constantly try to cover up Ron's mood. Whenever he had said something especially nasty, she would pretend it didn't hurt her as much as it actually did. For her own sake or for others, she wondered? Her wounded self would pretend until she was alone. Then, and only then could she feel, and experience the true hurt. The pain of his words would sink in like deep cuts, carving her insides.

Hermione felt something along the lines of a cold, seeping puddle flow through her. Starting in her heart, spreading to her fingertips. Her breathing was slower, and her tears increased. She felt empty, lonely. Alone in her bed she hugged her knees to her chest hoping to gain some heat in her heaving chest.

Alone.

Lonely.

Alone.

She needed someone to break through her barriers of independence. Not did she necessarily need someone, per say, but rather needed to feel loved. We all do. Even when our name is Hermione Granger.

AN: Hello lovelies!
Hopefully you enjoyed this chapter. I have bigger plans creeping closer and closer. Just you wait!

Love