Chapter Four
Professor Dumbledore gestured for Hermione and Draco to rejoin him at his desk.
"As you can see, my theory was correct. I know it's difficult for you both to believe, but the future shown in her memories is the truth. I think, for the sake of the child's wellbeing, it's best for the two of you to move into a private dormitory with her. At least, until we can figure out a way to send her back."
Hermione furrowed her brow, "How long do you think that will take?"
"I daresay it may be a long time, for travelling forward in time has not yet been proven possible. I have some contacts in the Department of Mysteries, who I'll reach out to," he said.
Hermione's mind was spinning.
The Headmaster continued, "Given the current state of the war, I think it best we keep this between us. I'll arrange for childcare, so you can both continue classes like normal. And I'll quiet any rumors that may be spreading right now. I think it would be best to avoid unwanted attention."
Hermione contemplated this for a moment. Glancing at Malfoy, she noted his jaw was set and his eyes were unreadable. He looked like he was having some kind of internal battle.
Before Hermione could study him further, Professor McGonagall had returned and announced, "The East wing is prepared."
"Excellent!" the Headmaster exclaimed, "If you would lead Miss Granger and little Carina, I just need to have a few words with Severus and Mr. Malfoy."
Professor McGonagall gently scooped up the sleeping child, and gestured for Hermione to follow.
They ventured to a second floor corridor, close to the library. Stopping outside a set of double doors, Professor McGonagall opened them to reveal a long, windowed corridor. The hallway seemed to go on for ages. On the wall opposite the windows, there were closed doors spaced evenly apart. She opened the door closest to them, and led Hermione inside.
"This is where you'll be staying. It is not password protected, but you and Mr. Malfoy can ward it as you like. If you would prefer a portrait with a password, then that can be arranged."
The room was large, with a high, beamed ceiling. Directly across from her was a stone fireplace, with tall windows flanking either side. Perpendicular to the fireplace were two cozy looking chairs, and directly across from it was a large, beige sofa. Closer to where she stood was a small, round dining table, with four chairs situated around it. And on the opposite side was a long counter covered in various fruits and vegetables. Dried herbs were hung from above, and a small wood stove was situated in the corner.
Beyond the food counter, an arched opening revealed a small hallway with additional doors. Professor McGonagall opened each of them.
"This one will be Carina's room," she said, laying the child gently in a toddler sized bed.
Hermione noted a small toy chest and bookcase had been brought into the room as well.
Professor McGonagall gestured to a small coat closet, "We will arrange for some clothes to be bought for her."
The professor led her back into the hallway and opened a few more doors.
"Here is a small powder room," she said without opening the door, "This next room is where Mr. Malfoy will sleep, and the room here at the very end will be yours. I hope you find it to your liking."
She led Hermione into the cozy bedroom. The walls were stone, and the ceiling had high, asymmetrical arches. The four poster bed reminded her of the dormitory in Gryffindor tower, despite having crisp white linens. A walnut colored bedside table and armoire were situated on either side of the bed, and her trunk full of belongings was positioned at the foot of the bed. Across the room, a small desk was placed before a tall window, and an open door revealed what looked to be a bathroom.
"Unfortunately, that bathroom is shared between this room and Mr. Malfoy's," she said, "But if that becomes an issue, we can have the house elves try to separate it into two."
Hermione shook her head. She wouldn't want to create extra work for the house elves. "I'm sure it will be fine," she said optimistically.
Professor McGonagall led her back out to the main sitting area.
"These dormitories have been used in the past to house families during Triwizard Tournaments, and have served as additional staff housing, when necessary. Currently, nobody else is living on this wing of the castle. I trust you and Mr. Malfoy will behave responsibly, despite the great deal of privacy."
The stern woman shot her a look, and Hermione blushed.
"Professor, you definitely don't have to worry about that," she said, "Malfoy and I loathe each other."
Professor McGonagall smiled fondly at her, "I know dear, but I imagine that will change in time. After all, at some point in the future you have a daughter together. I'd just like to see you make it out of Hogwarts, before that happens."
She looked chagrined as she said, "You have my word, Professor."
She gave Hermione a pat on the shoulder and said, "Rest up dear. I know it's been a long night."
Just as Professor McGonagall was leaving, Professor Snape arrived with Malfoy by his side. Unlike Professor McGonagall, he didn't give Malfoy a tour.
She overheard Professor Snape say, "I'll inform you when it is done."
Still standing in the archway, she watched as Malfoy closed the door and entered the room. She tried to make eye contact, but he avoided it.
She noticed he looked shaken. Like something worse had happened to him than what happened to her.
She rolled her eyes. He could be so dramatic.
"Malfoy," she started, figuring they needed to talk about what happened.
He groaned, "Shove it Granger."
She began to retort, but held her tongue. She didn't want to get in a fight and wake the kid. She didn't even know how to put her back to sleep, if that happened.
Deciding they could talk about it later, she gestured for him to follow her, and said, "There's your room."
She pointed to the door, and watched as he disappeared into the shadows.
A/N:
Thanks for all the reviews! Please keep them coming. It keeps me motivated!