Chapter Twenty: Cradle will Fall
Disclaimer: This is a fanfiction based on the Harry Potter universe by J.K. Rowling. We do not own anything, except the plot and a few characters created by us to further the plot line in the future
Draco guided Hermione inside the manor with a smile plastered on his face.
Hermione was the first to speak. "So Draco, what is this important thing you wanted to talk about?"
Draco halted and looked into her eyes "About that," he scratched the back of his head, "I actually didn't want to talk, I want to show you something."
"This isn't some stunt to take me to your bedroom is it?" She asked in an accusing tone.
"You think so little of me," he took a step back, "but Hermione, if you want to go to my room all you have to do is ask. And besides," He began, leaning in to whisper, "you should know that I am more than willing to satisfy any needs you desire." Hermione rolled her eyes and pushed him to lead the way.
Following Draco's lead, she began to notice he was leading her to the West Wing, also known as Draco's side of the Manor. "I have a strong feeling you are trying to 'show' me your bedroom." She said emphasizing on 'show'. "Either way, if you are, I've already seen it." She finished.
Draco smirked, "I can add that to the tour if you'd like."
"Do you ever not act like a hormonal teenager?"
Draco ignored the question as he stopped in front of the second door from the end. Hermione, not paying attention, almost smacked into him.
"Close your eyes."
"Seriously, Draco."
"Go on," He urged, "Close them."
Hermione did as he asked as he led her forward. Tempted by curiosity, Hermione peeked through her fingers to see complete darkness.
"Okay, you can open them." Hermione uncovered her eyes to still see a dark room.
Before she could make a smart retort, Draco breathed, "Lumos."
The room ignited with vibrant color. The aura of the room was pleasant, and filled with warmth. The walls were painted a soft shade of green, which complimented the light color of the wooden floor. White trees were painted on the walls behind the crib. The bedding to the crib was an off white that corresponded with the colors in its surroundings. The baby blanket Hermione bought was folded and hung over the crib.
Hermione walked over to the blanket, "How did this get here so fast. We have not been back for more than an hour."
"Well after you left to go find my mother I had Blaise help me bring up your books and this. I think it suits the color palette of the room."
"My books?" She said, confused.
"Yes, look right over here. I went all out with this theme and had craftsmen build this bookshelf in the form of a tree." He gestured to the tree in the corner. Upon further inspection, it was filled with Hermione's favorite storybooks. In the midst of the shelves was the ultrasound that was by her bedside.
"How am I not surprised that you decided to keep it in this frame."
"Well there has to be some form of Slytherin house pride in this room. How else would our son learn which house he's destined for."
"He might be a Gryffindor, do not forget who his mother is." She said in a small boastful tone.
Hermione looked further into the room, the small floor rug was a mixture of gray and white. There was an all white rocking chair next to the baby's crib. Above the dresser was a framed moving picture of two shadows kissing under the light of fireworks.
Draco spoke up, "I wanted a photo of us to put in here, but given our history they were nonexistent. I was disappointed until my mother showed me this."
"So you're saying that this is us."
"Yes, apparently someone captured a photo of us sharing this kiss at the New Years party."
Draco felt nervous about whether or not Hermione would want to take the photo down.
"If you don't like it, I can take it down." Draco said, reaching towards the frame.
Hermione stopped him, "No it's fine, I like it. Just not sure if I like the fact that someone took a photo of us without our consent."
"My mother hired a photographer for the New Years party. I share the same concern but overall am pleased that they captured this moment. It is a memory I never want to forget."
Hermione smiled and laid her head on Draco's chest. Draco placed his hand on Hermione's belly, and treasured this moment in time.
Stepping out of the nursery, it was a whole new wave of emotions Hermione felt. The small incident that occurred many months ago is soon going to become a reality. She never imagined the thought of Draco Malfoy being the father of her child.
Draco looked at Hermione to see her unease, "What's wrong? You don't like it?"
Hermione shook her head, "No, it's beautiful. It's more than I could have ever hoped for… it's just-"
"Tell me." Draco pressed.
"The baby's room is in an entirely different wing than where I am staying." Hermione wanted to ramble on about why she didn't like the location, but she simply took a deep breath and faced him. "Draco, I feel like you're trying to push us together. I can't walk all the way over here to the baby and I think you planned for it to be close to your room so I'd sleep in there instead."
"Hermione-" Draco interjected.
"Let me finish. Our date was really wonderful, but something tells me that you think we are going to be together before the baby gets here. I'm sorry, but I am not someone who falls in love in just seven weeks."
Draco smiled, "There is a part two of the surprise. As you can see the door on the left leads to my room, but on the right-". Draco nudged Hermione to follow him as he opened the door to the blue bedroom. It had matching white furniture (including a fully stocked bookcase), a roaring fire that sprayed orange light on the periwinkle quilt. The room was painted a pastel blue with more white doors leading off to the hallway, a master bathroom, and walk-in-closet.
"Oh, Draco-" Hermione gasped.
He smiled, "Did I do good or did I do good?"
"Is… Is this for me?"
He looked into her eyes, "I don't think you living here should be temporary. Considering the current circumstances, being here at the manor is best for your protection." He reached out to stroke her bump, "Especially when you are a permanent part of this family. Our family."
Hermione didn't want to cry, but a tear still fell from her eye.
"I can't promise that I won't visit you in here," He said slyly, "But, I won't pressure you. I don't care how long it takes for us to get there. I just want there to be an 'us'."
"I understand that you want to make our little family complete by having us be together, but don't forget it takes time for a relationship to form." Hermione explained. "The main thing you seem to forget is that before I found out I was pregnant we despised one another."
Draco nodded, and listened to her concerns. "I completely understand, but how will we ever know if it will work out if we don't at least try."
"Please just give it time, let faith take its course. Let's not rush into it, if we do start a relationship I want it to be true and genuine. Rushing into a romantic relationship makes it feel as if you're only doing this just because of the baby."
"I'll give you all the time you need and I want to prove to you that my feelings are a hundred percent genuine." He said, pulling Hermione into an embrace.
"I just want to be certain after Ron cheating and Ryan snooping I've developed trust issues." She explained.
"It seems like you have bad luck with men." Draco jokes.
"Yeah, like you're one to talk. Your 'ex-girlfriend'," Hermione emphasized. "She fell pregnant with another man's baby and you assumed it was your." She said with a smirk on her face.
Draco's smile fell and his expression turned serious. "That was low even for you."
"Oh for sure, I mean my childhood nemesis is kind of professing his new found love for me." Hermione said sarcastically. "If anything that seems kind of low, don't you think?"
"I'm not professing my love for you," Draco scoffed, "Just merely expressing my new found appreciation for you."
"Appreciation? So that's what they call it now." She said with a slight smirk, "It's nice to know."
Draco laughed sarcastically, "Let's go find my mother, before you decide to damage my self esteem and ego any further."
Hermione laughed but followed Draco to the patio where his mother was located. Hermione was quietly laughing to herself. The reaction that she got from Draco was just what she needed to keep her mind off everything that happened with Ryan.
Rounding the corner, Draco saw his mother dabbing her eyes with a napkin, trying to recompose herself. Draco cleared his throat to catch his mother's attention.
"Ah Darling you're back. So tell me did she like the surprise?" She said, trying to hide the tremble from her voice.
"She loved it," Draco began, " Mother, is something wrong? It looks as if you were crying? Did something happen?"
"It's nothing to worry about, I just received an owl from Azkaban. I know you-"
Draco cut her off, "From Azkaban, but how I didn't think that Father even had those privileges. What did he say that made you cry?" Draco tried to be understanding but it was hard to hide the anger in his tone.
"He wanted to know how you have been doing and how Hermione has been doing throughout her pregnancy."
"You told him! How could you tell him, Mother, it was not your news to share. I didn't want him to know because he is not going to have any part of my child's life." Draco began to yell, and the outburst made Narcissa and Hermione flinch slightly.
Hermione spoke up, "She didn't tell him, I did."
Draco turned to Hermione, "When?" He said in a sharp voice.
"The day of the trial," she said quietly. "I waited until the room cleared, I wanted to justify my reasoning for his plea, and your father was equally as curious as to why. He figured out I was pregnant and said my name would be tarnished if I kept the baby, he went on about the baby being a nuisance. He just made me so angry saying all these hurtful things about my child, so I told him that the baby was yours."
"So I really was the very last to know." Draco said in disbelief.
"Draco you need to understand that when I found out you couldn't stand the sight of me. I tried on multiple occasions to tell you but something always went awry and then I couldn't do it."
Draco took a step back, both his mother and Hermione tried to comfort him but he pushed himself away.
"I was able to accept that my mother knew along with Blaise. But my father Hermione, knowing that he knows I am certain he will try any little thing to put you and our son's life in jeopardy!"
"What can he do to us," Hermione said, wrapping her arms protectively around her belly, "those that can harm us have either been given the dementor's kiss or locked away in Azkaban for life."
"He has ties in out here too! How do you expect me to protect you from harm?"
"Draco, I can protect myself."
Narcissa patted her face gently with her napkin, "I really should be going."
Hermione and Draco looked puzzled. Draco stayed quiet, but Hermikne spoke, "If you don't mind me prying, but where are you going?" Draco glanced at his mother awaiting her response.
"The Ministry of Magic." Narcissa said nervously and timidly.
Draco raised a brow, "What business could you have at the Ministry?"
She looked guilty and slightly flustered, "I want to make a request to visit your father."
Draco's eyes widened, "What!"
"I knew you were going to be upset." She sighed.
"Of course I would be upset! After all he's done to this family?" Draco asked, "Why in Merlin's name would you want to even look at him, let alone visit him."
Narcissa tensed, "I know you have your reasons for disliking your father," She looked at Hermione, "You both do."
"Of course, he ruined my life. He ruined our family's life, and he'd still be reeking havoc had he not been captured."
Narcissa bowed her head, "You don't know him like I do. I remember a time before the war, before everything. There was a time when your father was good."
Hermione had trouble seeing this, considering everything Lucius stood for was everything she was against.
"He was nothing but a coward." spat Draco.
Without thinking Narcissa slapped Draco across the face, "Don't talk about your father like that!" She warned.
Hermione gasped in shock and Draco straightened his posture unfazed. He cleared his throat, "That was quite unnecessary mother."
He rolled his eyes, but Hermione spoke, "Why do you want to visit him, Narcissa?"
Narcissa rubbed the gold wedding ring on her finger, "It's our wedding anniversary this February. I don't think it's right to spend it alone."
Hermione actually found this sweet, but Draco crossed his arms, "I hope he rots in there."
Narcissa looked appalled, "Draco! How could you say such a thing? He is your flesh and blood."
Draco stood up, "I've had enough of him. If I ever see him again, it'll be too soon." Draco threw his napkin on the ground and stormed off.
Neither Narcissa nor Hermione ran after him.
"The only reason I can even visit him is because of you, Hermione." Narcissa spoke, "He would've received the dementors' kiss had you not spared him."
The trial had seemed like years ago. It felt like an out of body experience when she defended him.
Narcissa looked over her shoulder, maybe hoping that Draco would come back.
"I'm sure he didn't mean it." consoled Hermione.
"No, he did." She said, "I do not even blame him. Draco went through so much because of Lucius. He looked up to his father, wanted to be like him, and then Lucius changed when the Dark Lord rose. Lucius did not give Draco much freedom, wanting him to follow in his footsteps. The Daily Prophet never gave us a moment of peace. My Black family ties didn't help us either."
"I wonder why Draco is hating him so suddenly. When we were alone he actually thanked me for saving him."
Narcissa sighed, "I don't know. It's been established that if we don't talk about him, then we don't have to worry."
Hermione places a hand on Narcissa's shoulder, "I'll go talk to him, maybe talk some sense into him."
"Thank you Hermione, I'd really appreciate that."
Hermione chuckled lightly, "He's just upset, it was shocking news to him." Hermione turned back towards the manor, "We're a family now and I don't want the family to be separated." She said quietly.
"Hermione, wait, I almost forgot this came attached to my letter from Lucius." Narcissa handed over a folded piece of parchment paper.
Hermione quickly read the letter and began to head towards Draco's room, she was determined to reason with him. Once reaching his doorway, she hears a loud thud.
"Shit" Draco hissed in pain.
Hermione opened the door, "Draco are you alright?" She rushed to his side without a second thought.
Draco held his arm to his chest wincing in pain. "Haven't you heard of knocking?" He said angrily.
"Now when I come into your room willingly you want me to leave, but enough of this foolishness and show me your hand." She said sternly.
Draco glared at Hermione but complied with her request.
"I honestly hope our child doesn't throw tantrums like you." She said, examining him.
"I'm not throwing a tantrum." Draco hissed through the pain.
"Yes you are. Getting mad at your mother then storming off into your bedroom, to make matters worse you've injured yourself."
"Don't talk to me as if I am a child. I have my reasons."
Hermione purposely pulled his arm closer to her.
Draco grunts in pain, "You did that on purpose."
"If you'd hold still then maybe I could get a better look at your arm."
"You're no healer, how can I be sure you know what you're doing."
"Who do you think would heal Harry and Ron during the war? Gilderoy Lockhart." Hermione answered and stifled a quiet laugh.
Draco groaned, "Hermione now isn't the time for jokes."
She smirked and continued to examine Draco's arm and wrist, "Well, there's good news and bad news. Which would you like to hear first?"
"The latter." Draco hesitated.
"Good choice. The bad news is you are an ignorant man child who doesn't realize that his mother is lonely and misses her husband."
Draco rolled his eyes, "I'm afraid to ask, but what's the good news."
"The good news is your arm isn't broken, but you just sprained your wrist." Hermione pulled out her wand and pointed it to Draco's wrist.
"What are you doing?" Draco asked, trying to pull his arm away from Hermione.
"I'm going to cast a charm to heal you obviously."
"Nope, I'm not going to be like Potter, what if my bones disappear."
Hermione shook her, "Unlike Gilderoy Lockhart, I am more qualified to cast healing charms."
Draco wore a nervous expression, "Okay, I trust you."
Hermione rolled her eyes, "There's no need to fret."
Hermione began to concentrate, "Episkey." She said clearly.
Draco felt a warm sensation on his forearm for a moment before it turned cool.
"Well." She said, putting her wand away.
Draco quickly felt his wrist to ensure his bones were still intact, he warily moved his wrist in a circular motion. "Everything's in place and it feels much better, and I'm sorry for doubting you."
"I'll accept your apology, but now for the reason I came here."
Draco groaned. "What if I don't want to talk at the moment."
Hermione held her chin, acting as if she was thinking, " I don't recall asking if you wanted to or not."
Draco subconsciously rolled his eyes. "Hermione please, the thought of my father puts me in a horrible mood. I don't feel it's fair to put this on you or our son"
"Regardless of the situation, we have to speak of it eventually, so why not just rip off the bandage."
Draco looked confused, and Hermione sighed, "The sooner we talk about this the faster the pain subsides."
Hermione spoke, "Draco please read this. It is addressed to me but I think you need to see what he has to say." She handed Draco a section from the letter.
Miss Granger, Narcissa has been telling me that you have decided to keep residence in our home. When I was first informed of the news I was outraged, but she tells me since your stay Draco has been in a more peaceful state of mind. My family's happiness is the one thing that keeps me from giving up. I hope you are taking care of yourself for the sake of my grandchild, and I also hope that you are willing to let me take part of his life even from here. Please take care of my son, and I am waiting to hear the news on when the next heir is born.
~Lucius Malfoy
"I wasn't pleased with the idea of your mother wanting to see him, but he's her husband, your father. You may not want anything to do with him, you are not your mother. They have spent so many years together, and from what your mother told many losses of potential heirs before you. Don't be mad at your mother for wanting to visit your father. If the ministry grants her request, the visit will be supervised, and we can accompany her as well if you wish."
Draco kept his head low, "I'm not sure Hermione, I understand that my mother misses my father, but I cannot bear the thought of seeing her broken, especially if she sees my father."
"We will be here for her, but you have to think of her, and put your anger aside. But from his letter I think being in Azkaban is making your father rethink his choices. He wants to be a part of our son's life, though we will have to discuss that at a later time."
Draco opened his mouth to speak, but Hermione spoke before he could get a word out. "With the whole ordeal of finding out about our child, I want you to understand that I never meant for it to turn out the way it has. I was truly being honest of my attempts to reach out to you on multiple occasions, but something would get in the way and prevent me from telling you."
"Oh really, I say your bluffing, name one time you tried." He said in disbelief.
Hermione stood and folded her arms, "From what I recall, I first told your mother about my pregnancy the day Astoria suffered from a miscarriage. She wanted me to tell you the news, but I couldn't because of what had occurred. Another time was when I came over and you were playing quidditch and got a blow to the head by a bludger. My last attempt was when you called me a Mudblood, right before Blaise had the opportunity to reveal he didn't father this child."
Draco unconsciously rubbed his head to remember the incident. "I only said name one, but okay I believe you now."
"I wanted to tell you the day of the trial, though it was only an idea since I was not 100 percent certain, but with your father on trial I knew you would not want to speak to anyone, let alone myself. Whenever I got the courage to tell you the timing was never right. I know it was wrong of me to tell others before you and I am truly sorry."
"Thinking of all the misfortunes that have occurred, I shouldn't have made any assumptions. It made me feel as if you did not want me to be a part of his life in any way." Draco explained.
Hermione gasped, "Oh Draco, that was never my intention, at some point in time I began to doubt whether or not you wanted to take part in our child's life. You despised me for many years because of my muggleborn status, and I thought you were like your father and all about blood purity."
"Yes, but in my defense it was what my father taught me. After all these years, and learning that blood status means nothing, I am nothing like my father, not anymore. I no longer look up to my father as I did during our school years."
"I just had my doubts. Can you blame me, no one can forget the endless rivalry we had as children, but I hope we can put that past us, for the sake of our son. Looking at the current circumstances, I can say that I was proven wrong. You have changed and I really am beginning to like this new Draco. "
Draco put his hand on Hermione's belly, as his hand made contact he began feeling the baby kick. "Whether you like it or not, I am going to be in our son's life and I'm never leaving."
Draco pulled Hermione into an embrace, both let out a content sigh.
"I hate to ruin a good moment but I need to go." Hermione said shyly.
"Go where?"
She pulled away from Draco, "Well if you must know, your son just kicked my bladder, but I also want to talk to your mother.
Draco let out a small laugh, "Well go, before you anything happens."
"I'll tell you later." Hermione said before walking out of Draco's room.
She headed to her room, to relieve her bladder, "Sweetheart, you need to stop kicking my bladder, one day I might make it in time." She smiled as she rubbed her stomach. Hermione washed her hands before leaving to find Narissa.
Hermione began walking down the corridor, "Miss." a voice said.
Hermione jumped, and turned around.
"Oh it's just you Tibby." She let out a sigh of relief.
"Tibby did not intend to scare Miss Granger."
"It's no issue at all. What is it you wanted to ask Tibby?"
"Lady Malfoy will like to speak to you in the dining room."
"Okay, perfectly let her know I will be there as soon as I can."
Tibby nodded and apparated away.
Hermione let out a sigh, and looked back onto Draco's door. It is hard to believe that this is the same person that used to torment me back in school. Now seeing how much he has changed over the years, I am glad that I am able to get to know 'this Draco'.
She turned around, walking in the direction of the dining room.
Arriving in the dining room, Narcissa is waiting patiently, sipping a cup of coffee.
"Sorry for making you wait longer than expected. Now that I am closer to my due date, my stamina has declined." Hermione explained.
"Oh, no need to worry dear, I was pregnant once too."
Hermione took her seat, adjacent to Narcissa. A house elf appeared with a tall glass of lemonade. Hermione thanked the house elf, then took a drink of the contents.
"Narcissa, I was hoping to speak to you regarding Lucius."
Hearing her husband's name, Narcissa set down her cup and gave Hermione her attention.
"I spoke with Draco, and though he is not fond of the idea of Lucius remaining in your life, I may have convinced him to give him a second chance."
Narcissa nodded. "That is good news," she said wearily, "I hope that the ministry can grant my request.
"It doesn't hurt to try, if you would like, I could accompany you to the Ministry."
Narcissa's mood lightened, "I would appreciate it greatly."
Hermione smiled and took a sip of her lemonade. "If you don't mind me asking, why would you want to see Lucius?
"There are many reasons why I would like to visit my husband. One of them is that our anniversary is close. Another one is that I miss his voice and presence. I know that Lucius is hated by the world, but no one knows him like I do. Lucius is cold, and stern on the outside, but on the inside he is a caring and loving husband and father. I wish others viewed him like this, opposed to him being a death eater, and conspiring with voldemort."
"Since the trial, I have noticed the way he has changed. He despised me, but now is looking forward to being a part of Draco and I's child."
Narcissa smiled, "This is what I am talking about, I hope that you will eventually see the real Lucius."
"I really hope so as well." Hermione took a small sip from her glass."
"I really hope that the Ministry does not deny my appeal."
"If you explain to the Ministry just like you told me I wouldn't doubt it."
"That's perfect, it will give me time to prepare myself." Narcissa said, smoothing out her skirt.
Hermione set down her glass, "Regarding the rather abrupt departure of your son not that long ago." Narcissa nodded. "I spoke with him, and we had a deep heartfelt conversation. Well after I aided him with his self-inflicted injury."
"That boy with his temper," Narcissa smiled. "He gets it from his father, though he may deny it."
"But we had a much needed conversation about why he was unfortunately the last to know about this pregnancy. I do believe we made a great slide in our relationship as soon to be parents."
Both continued to talk and laugh for quite a bit of time, until the house elves began to set up for dinner.
Narcissa called upon one of the house elves, "Will you please inform Draco to come down for dinner please." The house elf apparated away.
"Is Blaise still here?" Hermione asked.
"Unfortunately dear, Blaise had business to attend to, so he will not be joining us for dinner. He did mention that he will be returning tomorrow morning."
Draco strides in adjusting his sleeves, finding his seat across from Hermione. Clearing his throat, "I would like to apologize to both of you about my rude behavior. You did not deserve to be treated the way I did Mother. I cannot help that the thought of father potentially harming my family in any form makes my blood boil. I sincerely hope you can forgive me for my actions and accept my apology."
Hermione smiled at Draco for admitting his fault and accepted his apology. She looked over at Narcissa, who was showing a sympathetic smile, nodding slowly.
The three enjoy their dinner, sharing details of their day. Not long after the clock strikes 10.
"Oh will you look at the time," Narcissa said gesturing to the clock, "Time seems to be speeding along. It might be best if we start making our ways to bed, wouldn't you all agree?"
Hermione lets out a small inaudible yawn, "You are right, it has been quite a day with an interesting set of events." She begins to slowly make her way up from the chair supporting her belly. Draco shoots up and speeds around the table to her, to be a steady support for balance. Interlocking their arms he wishes his mother a good night's rest, as he and Hermione make their way to the West Wing.
"Draco, I know I am heavily pregnant, but I do not need you to dote on me."
"Helping you in keeping your balance is now considered doting, who would have thought."
Hermione playfully smacks his chest, and a chuckle erupts from his throat.
"You know what I mean." She said in disbelief.
"Yes Hermione, I know. But as long as I am around, I plan on helping with the littlest thing.
Draco walked Hermione to her door, and they stood there in silence.
Hermione turned around and looked up to Draco.
"Isn't this the part where you invite me in?" Draco said jokingly with a smirk.
"Ah yes, of course. I will invite you in and maybe we can reminisce about the night we made this." She pointed to her protruding belly.
Draco stood in shock for a second, but nodded and smoothly began unbuttoning his shirt.
"Draco, I was only kidding. At this point in time, sex is the last thing on my mind."
Disappointed fell upon his face.
"Besides, this is my first night in my new room, let me enjoy it for one night. Because you and I know, our son already keeps me awake at night when you are not around."
"I understand, I hope you get plenty of rest." He says placing a soft kiss on her forehead. "And if I may" gesturing his eyes to the bump, Hermione nods. Draco slowly gets down on one knee and kisses her belly, "You better not keep your mother awake," Draco said in a playfully stern tone. Hermione feels a kick from where Draco left his presence. Though this felt different from all the others, she felt warm and as if someone was lightly tickling her. Feeling her cheeks warm, she also wished him a good night's rest and walked into her room, closing the door behind her, resting her back against the door. Turning ever so slightly, ear towards the door, she heard Draco in a faint voice, I love you.
Unsure of what she heard, trying to process, her face began to feel slightly warmer. She fanned herself with her hand as she made her way to the closet to change for bed. Hermione debated on what to wear for bed, looking at the wardrobe full of many nightgowns, but ultimately chose to wear Draco's shirt. Even though there were so many choices she chose something that brought her and her son comfort. After dressing for bed, she walked to her bookshelf and scanned the titles, "Ahhh there it is". Hermione picked up her copy of Robin Hood.
"I hope you really like this story." Hermione spoke to her stomach, "It's about a man who stole from the rich, and gave to the poor. Stealing is overall bad so you better not get any ideas mister." She read a few pages of the story to her belly, before going to bed.
Hermione's first night in her new room was amazing. She got to discover the amazing new shower, and the fully stocked closet that was filled with designer maternity clothes. She even found ballgowns of every color in her growing size. No doubt these were for upcoming parties that the Malfoy's were prone to throwing.
When she was dressed, Draco joined her in the hallway and walked with her downstairs.
"Sleep well?" He asked.
"Wonderfully, thank you."
He shrugged, "You couldn't have slept that well, I wasn't there."
"It's because you weren't there I was able to sleep."
They went downstairs to discover Narcissa was having breakfast on the back porch with Blaise.
"Good morning," Blaise smirked, "How did you two sleep?"
"Alone." Hermione stated firmly, taking her seat next to Narcissa. The table had a view of the garden, the Quidditch pitch.
"Hey Blaise," Draco asked, "Are you up for a game of Quidditch?"
"Oh no, you don't," Narcissa warned, "Remember what happened last time?"
"That was an accident, I am a really good Quidditch player."
"Not as good as Potter," said Blaise. Hermione almost choked on her muffin.
Narcissa, being his mother, said, "Oh Draco, you are a really great player, I just don't want you to get hurt so close to your son being born."
The four all sat down and enjoyed their breakfast. Draco and Blaise were in a deep conversation about Pro Quidditch, debating on which teams will make the World Cup. Hermione smiles at them, and she begins having a pleasant conversation with Narcissa.
"Hermione, dear, I have been curious lately about the baby and your plans on names for the future?"
"Names?" Hermione scratched the back of her head, "If I'm going to be honest Narcissa, I haven't given names much thought. At first, I was planning on waiting to wait until I gave birth, because I wanted to be able to see my son to see what name suits him best, but now I'm not entirely sure."
"Have you had any thoughts on the baby's surname
Draco grumbled, but Blaise said, "As much as I'd love to play, I have to head back home. Mother wants me to get fitted for new dress robes for the wedding."
"Wedding?" asked Draco, "What wedding?"
"My mother is getting married again."
"You didn't tell us your mom was getting married," said Hermione.
Blaise shrugged, "Well, this is like her," He counted on his fingers, "Yeah, her tenth marriage. It's not exactly a celebratory event anymore. When you've been to one of the weddings you've been to them all. I don't even know the wizard." Blaise looked at his watch, "I really should get going. Thank you for breakfast Mrs. Malfoy.
"Anytime, Blaise."
"Bye Draco. Hermione." Blaise walked off around to the front of the house to apparate away.
Both Hermione and Narcissa didn't feel like eating anymore, so they retreated back into the manor.
Narcissa summoned her traveling cloak when Hermione said, "Would you still like me to accompany you?"
"Yes dear, that would be lovely." Narcissa smiled.
Hermione nodded and headed up the stairs to grab her cloak. She tried not to use house elves where she could.
She grabbed a dark scarlet cloak and draped it around her shoulders. Her bump poked out as the fabric divided. She headed for the stairs when she saw Draco's door open ajar. She decided to tell him she was leaving.
"Draco?" She opened the door. Hermione saw him lounging on his canopy bed throwing a closed snitch in the air. "Draco, your mother and I are going to go to the Ministry. We will be back soon."
He stood up instantly, "You're going?"
"Mmmhm."
He nodded, "Then I am coming."
"I don't need an escort."
"What if something happens there? The reporters could swarm you or you could go into labor or-"
"Draco, the baby isn't coming for a couple weeks and I won't be prancing around, I just didn't want your mother to be alone."
Draco walked into his closet and returned with a black cloak wrapped around him, "Let's get this over with."
Hermione sighed, "I'm not saying you can't come, but I don't want you following me. Getting this visitation means a lot to your mother, so please don't fight with her. Whether she visits him or not does not affect you."
"You're wrong, it does affect me." He sighed, "My mother has worked all these years to give a shred of respect back to the Malfoy name. It will never be back to its former glory. My mother and I were like shards of glass and she had to pick up the pieces and now it feels like she's destroying what she built."
"I'm sure your mother knows what she's doing."
He shrugged, "Guess we will find out."
The three grouped together across the fire.
"I'll go in and you both can follow behind me." Narcissa said.
She disappeared in a flash of green smoke as Draco held out his hand to Hermione to enter the grate. They too traveled by floo and stepped out when they reached the Ministry.
Hermione and Draco moved through the crowd of witches and wizards until they entered the atrium with the Fountain of Magical Brethren.
"Where did she go?" Draco asked.
"I don't know." Draco and Hermione resorted to sitting on a bench across from the fountain to wait for her.
Sitting in silence seemed like torture to Draco, he looked at Hermione subtlely and glanced down to her hand next to his. He wanted to break the silence, he slowly placed his hand over hers, he was waiting for her to pull away, but in fact did the opposite. She slightly adjusted her hand so they were palm to palm, and intertwined her fingers with his.
Hermione and Draco sat side by side on a wooden bench, their hands intertwined as they gazed at the shimmering fountain before them. It was a warm morning , and the air was filled with a sense of magic and anticipation. The fountain, with its cascading water and enchanted lights, created a serene atmosphere, offering a moment of respite from their hectic lives. The soft melody of the water echoed in the air, blending harmoniously with their whispers and laughter.
Draco turned to Hermione, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "You know," he began, his voice carrying a newfound tenderness, "I never thought I'd find myself sitting here with you, sharing this moment."
Hermione's eyes met Draco's, reflecting a mix of happiness and vulnerability. "Neither did I, Draco. But life has a way of surprising us, doesn't it?"
Hermione stood up stepping closer to the fountain. Draco followed behind her filled with curiosity.
Hermione began to rummage through her purse, and pulled out a single bronze knut. She closed her eyes while holding it up to her lips with both hands. Opening her eyes, she threw the knut into the fountain.
"Hermione, isn't it wasteful to just throw money away?"
"I was making a wish," she responded back. "It's something we do in the Muggle world, when you are near a fountain you make a wish and throw a coin in for it to come true."
"Can I try?" Draco asked.
"Of course," Hermione smiled as looked for another knut. "Here you go."
Draco closed his eyes, and whispered, "I wish Hermione would see that my intentions are pure." Draco throws the knut into the fountain, and they both stand there in a comfortable silence.
Hermione had been staring at the fountain repeatedly and really had to go to the bathroom.
"Hey Draco, I am going to use the loo."
"Okay let's go, I'll be right behind you."
"What did I say? Don't hover. I am just going to use the restroom, I'll be back in a moment." Draco hesitated for a moment, but sat down.
Hermione walked into the ladies bathroom and entered the stall. She heard someone else open the door, but didn't see a pair of feet beside her. She flushed, walked over to the sink, washing her hands, and looked up in the mirror to see she wasn't alone.
"Ron!" She whipped around to see him lock the door and meet her gaze.
"Hello, Hermione."
She glared at him, "'Hello', that's what you're going with, 'Hello'? After everything you've done."
Ron's ears went pink, but he looked down at his shoes, "I saw your article in the Quibbler… and the Daily Prophet... and Witch Weekly."
"Did you corner me to gossip? Because a girl's loo is a perfect place."
Ron didn't answer, instead he said, "So you're with him?"
"That's none of your business."
"I'm asking because I care."
"It would've been nice if you cared about five years ago." She spat
"Look, I don't want to talk about that."
"What if I do!"
He ignored her, "Are you with him or not?"
"Are you asking for someone?" She retorted.
"No," He stated. His voice was soft, not his usual harsh banter. "I wanted to know because I think there is something you should know about Malfoy."
Hermione rolled her eyes, "I grew up with him too, Ron. I know he used to call me Mudblood. He did horrible things. Things that I still have trouble forgiving, but he's changing for the better."
Ron gripped his wand so tightly his knuckles were white, "There's one memory of Malfoy you don't have."
"I don't need to be reminded of the past, Ron. I am making new memories. Happy memories. Whatever you're gonna tell me, it doesn't matter."
Ron reached into his robes and pulled out an empty vile, before Hermione could ask, Ron took the tip of his willow wand and pressed it against his temple.
"Wait," She asked, "What are you doing?"
He stayed silent, focused as a silver strand was extracted from his temple. He let out a sigh of relief as he dropped the memory into the vile and sealed it.
"I can show you." He whispered, "Let Malfoy tell you whatever you want to hear, but this will show you who he really is."
"How do I know you haven't tampered with the memory?"
"You can do that?"
"Oh honestly, Ronald, we learned Slughorn did it in our sixth year."
"Harry." Ron said, "Harry was there too and if Malfoy is as noble as you think he is, he'd have the real memory too."
There was a long silence of Hermione staring down Ron, looking for any sign that might say he's lying. Ron held out the memory to her, "Take it."
"Why? If this memory is so life-altering, why didn't you tell me about it before?"
"Because I never thought you'd be this stupid. He's Draco Malfoy. You may be carrying his child, but I would've never thought you'd date him, that you would want to build a life with him."
"A life with him is more promising than what you gave me."
"I'm not defending my actions. I know what I did was wrong."
"'Wrong'? I have some stronger words to use."
The sound of someone trying to open the door caught Hermione's attention. The sound became more forceful, and inpatient.
"Hermione? Are you okay there?" It was Draco.
Hermione panicked, "Um, I'm fine." She called weakly.
"Why is the door locked?" He jiggled the handle, "Hermione?"
"I'll be out in just a minute" Hermione tried to say calmly.
"Take it." Ron whispered, stretching out his hand. She didn't move, "Take it!"
Ron pulled his hand back and threw it at her. She reached up and clasped it in her fingers, barely grasping it.
"Look at it, please." He whispered and then disappeared with a crack.
Draco yelled through the door, "I'm coming in. Alohomora!"
When Draco walked in, he saw Hermione drying her hands on her coat.
"You okay?"
"I thought I told you not to hover."
"You were gone for almost fifteen minutes, I wanted to make sure you were feeling okay."
"I'm fine, I just really had to go." She lied.
"Well, Mother filled out the request and she is waiting for us in the Atrium." Draco held out his hand to Hermione and she took it, using her other hand to feel for the vile which she pocketed in her robes.
Author's Note: Hey Everyone, I know it has been a long time since there has been an update to the Lion's Secret, but so much has gone since the last update. For the time being, I, AnonymousMaknae, or you guys could call me Liz, will be trying my best to continue this story until the end. Thank you to everyone that has Favorited, and Followed with our story. And I hope that everyone enjoyed this Chapter of The Lion's Secret.
~ AnonymousMaknae