Pr

by alissa.mellie

d

2. 2

Hermione?" Theo called out, as he made his way towards the one place he knew his cousin would likely be.

The library.

Which was on the main floor towards the back right of Fosgate Manor. It boasted the largest French doors in the home, which opened onto a beautiful balcony. It was covered by a large trellis and there was a pathway leading out towards a smattering of greenhouses, which were tended to by several of the House elves.

"Hermione?" Theo called a second time, making his way through the French doors and out onto the balcony where, sure enough, his cousin was sitting down on a long chair that was her favorite place to read.

"Theo?" She looked back over her shoulder and sighed, "Should I go back in?"

"Not yet." He replied, sitting down on a chair next to her spot and did his normal helpless shrug thing, "Do you want to talk about it?"

"Not really."

"Okay?"

Blue eyes stared at him, and Theo couldn't help but feel awful for Hermione, who kept having these benders thrown her way.

"What should I say, Theo? How in Merlin's name does any of this make a lick of sense?"

"You mean with Dumbledore?"

She nodded, pursing her lips in frustration.

"Harry and I spent five years dealing with the Headmaster, and I never once got the sense he was a danger to Harry or myself. Yes, we got away with far too much—especially in those early years, but if we hadn't—if Dumbledore hadn't looked the other way, who knows what might've happened."

"Maybe," Theo prevaricated, "but it doesn't change the fact the old wizard isn't all he appears to be, Hermione. Did it ever occur to you that Dumbledore was just using you, Harry and even Ron to do his dirty work for him?"

She blanched at that comment, then looked off towards the gardens, wondering if Theo wasn't spot on.

"You really think that?" She inquired softly after a few moments of tense silence.

"I think based on the current facts the idea has merit, and not one you should dismiss either."

"This is all so confusing!" Her voice was both angry and shrill, and Theo could only nod in agreement.

"I don't doubt it is," he watched Hermione clench and unclench her hands, and then noticed her body was shaking a bit, "are you alright?"

Theo gazed pointedly down at her hands and watched as she lifted them in front of her face, trying to get control over her agitation.

"My magic is feeling restless." She admitted after a moment.

"Maybe you need to let off a little steam?"

She just smirked at her cousin and then grabbed his hand, ignoring his shouted protests as she pulled him up with her and led him down into the gardens below with an infectious giggle.

"Oh, come on, cousin!" She teased mischievously, "Let's go let off some steam!"

"Hermione!" Theo pulled back slightly, "When I suggested it, I didn't mean I should join you!"

"Oh pish! You know you love it when I commandeer you for a bit of fun!"

"Do not!"

"So, do!"

"Do not!" Theo's voice was part exasperation and part amusement.

"Oh really?" She bit back playfully, "Look down, cousin."

When Theo gazed down, his eyes widened when he noticed they were up in the air...about 150 metres up. The breeze, which should've been cold and frigid was warm and balmy, and he chuckled at how well his cousin could control not only her magic, but the elements around her.

"Evil witch."

Hermione giggled, then quipped breezily, "But you love me anyway!"

Theo blushed but replied softly, "Yeah, I do."

That admission brought Hermione up short, but then she smiled wider than Theo had ever seen her do, before she launched herself at him and gave him a fierce hug, which he returned just as intensely.

"I love you too, cousin. This whole mess has been so much more bearable because of you."

Theo pulled back and blushed even harder, "What about Harry?"

"I love Harry. He's my brother, but let's be honest? Harry doesn't know a thing about the magical Pureblood world and he likely won't have to be shackled to it either. You've helped me figure out all this nonsense, and it's made it so much easier than it would've been otherwise. More than actually, so thank you for that."

"Anytime, Hermione. We're family now, so whatever you need, I'm here for it."

Her smile was beyond delighted and Theo couldn't help but think that he was the one who lucked out from this situation.

"Do we have to go back inside?" She pouted, but Theo just shrugged again.

"How's your magic feeling?"

Hermione closed her eyes and sighed, "Still ruffled."

"Well, then?"

Her laugh was infectious as she moved away from him and held out her hands, letting the flames encase her entire body and Theo just smiled at how amazing Hermione looked at that moment. Her hair was swirling behind her on fire, and the rest of her was glowing brightly in the afternoon light. When he looked down, he wasn't surprised to see their entire tea party staring up at them with awe and amusement.

Harry was grinning widely, while Theo's Father and the Malfoy's seemed stunned.

Muriel was just smirking and shaking her head.

"Hey, cousin?"

Hermione looked at him and he nudged his chin down, silently telling her they had company. When she tilted her head down to take in the scene below, she just giggled and nodded.

"Should I give them a show?"

Theo shook his head, but before he could reply she waved her hand and he was back down on the ground next to his Father...who gasped in wonder.

"Did she do that?"

"It's not the first time either."

Thoros hummed in return, giving Lucius an impressed look before focusing back on the vision above.

Draco however, was staring at Hermione in wonder.

He'd seen this before—once the memory had been returned to him, and he could see his Mother's surprised expression, but his Father wasn't daunted in the least.

And it made him wonder, not for the first time, how different Hermione's transformation had been that night back at the Ministry.

He glanced back up and then heard Theo say, "She was shaking when I found her. I think her magic was reacting to everything and she needed to let off a bit of energy."

Draco's gaze moved over to where Theo was standing next to Potter, as the two were whispering to each other.

Then there was a cry...a Phoenix cry, and Draco's head lifted back upwards quickly just in time to see Hermione's aura expanding and then there was a crack of flame...

And then the raw cry of the Phoenix was heard again as she flew down towards them—in all her glory...her red, orange and yellow plumes of feathers more noticeable the closer she got.

His Mother's gasp, as she placed her hand over her heart and his Father's quick intake of breath, were to be expected.

Theo's father muttered, "amazing" as they all watched the majestic bird land and start squawking at them.

"Dearest," Muriel tutted, "is now really the time for such theatrics?"

A few more trills and an indignant squawk had them all laughing as Hermione fluffed out her feathers in what Draco could only describe as haughty indignation.

"Are you going to join us back for tea?" Muriel admonished, "Or should I have Corky bring you a nice rodent of some kind to eat?"

More laughter and even Hermione seemed amused as she fluttered over to her Grandmother and nipped at her playfully, earning a fond, wistful smile from the older witch.

"I do so wish your Father could be here to see this though." Muriel mused quietly and Hermione nudged her beak into her Grandmother's forearm.

And then something amazing happened...

A single tear fell from Hermione's eye onto her Grandmother's hand, and Muriel gasped as the solitary offering dissipated into her skin.

She grabbed her chest in wonder, and smiled as all the seemingly aches and pains of her advanced age vanished.

Even her appearance appeared to glow a bit, as the visible signs of her age dimmed slightly.

As everyone stared at Hermione, she just ruffled her feathers again and gave a piercing look towards Theo's father. Tilting her head, she squawked again and moved over to him, nipping at his left forearm repeatedly.

Thoros seemed bemused, then glanced over to his son—whose expression was thoughtful.

Then amused, as Hermione kept poking at the same spot and trilled in what Thoros could only describe as irritation.

"What is it, Hermione?" Thoros asked, taking his right finger and petting the bright crown of feathers on the bird's head.

However it was Draco who made the connection, "I was disillusioned one night on the Astronomy Tower and Hermione could see through the charm when she was in this form."

Thoros nodded reluctantly, even when Hermione kept pecking at his left forearm stubbornly.

"You're not going to let this go, are you, young lady?"

The high pitched trill and full shuddering not to mention the intensive stare down afterwards, let Thoros know that the young witch indeed...wasn't going to let this go.

So he removed his outer robes and then uncuffed his left sleeve, rolling it up to expose his Dark Mark.

It had faded, but not completely. Where the mark was once dark black in color, when the Dark Lord was alive...during his first disappearance the color had faded slightly, but it hadn't swirled and moved like it had when he was at full power.

Now, it was grayish in color, the borders lighter than the whole.

When Thoros uncovered the mark fully, he heard the Potter lad hiss and felt his body stiffening at the sound—but the resounding squawk from the Phoenix staring at the mark, quieted everyone.

Then his gaze met his son's and he could see the flash of not only disappointment there—but of pain, fear and disgust, and for the first time in his life, Thoros felt profoundly ashamed of what he'd chosen for himself.

What his Father had chosen for him.

It was the reason he'd all but insisted to the Dark Lord that his son not be branded until after his schooling was completed.

He had explained, that in order for Theodore to be the best soldier for the cause that he could be, Theo needed to have the best education and training that could be provided. The Dark Lord had been a studious learner as well, according to his own Father and thankfully, that tactic had seemed to appease the Dark Lord.

It had been the best compromise he could've hoped for under the circumstances.

He sighed softly at his son, then watched as Hermione in her animagus form moved a bit closer and a solitary tear fell from her eye and directly onto his Dark Mark.

Healing it nearly instantly.

Powerful magic!

Looking down in astonishment, Thoros missed the awestruck expressions from those within their group and it was only the sound of Hermione cawing as she preened in what looked to be satisfaction, that he was finally pulled from his stupor.

He smiled slightly and bowed his head in gratitude.

"Thank you, my dear."

Another squawk and then she flew and landed on Theo's shoulder nuzzling him happily for a moment, before she lifted her beak and made a motion like she was sniffing the air.

Then her head whipped to the left as Crookshanks scampered out of the garden towards a grove of bushes and everyone stilled as Hermione's gaze focused on something—and before they knew what was going on she took flight, screeching as she went straight into the same thatch of flowering beds that Crookshanks had gone into and then there were several sounds of a scuffle, until she pulled something up by one her talons.

It was a rat.

She started to caw madly at everyone, but it was Harry who recognized the offensive rodent and took out his wand, conjuring a cage and wasting no time bringing it over and letting Hermione place the rat into the trap.

When the door was shut, Harry grinned menacingly, while everyone just stared at the two of them like they were mad.

"Harry," Muriel admonished, "what in the world are you both doing?"

Harry lifted the cage and brought it over to where all could see their new guest.

"Aunt Muriel, I'd like to introduce you to Wormtail..."

Lucius and Thoros hissed, and Narcissa's expression darkened.

"Excuse me?"

There was another flash and then Hermione was standing there enraged as she stomped over and grabbed the cage from her brother, her eyes on fire as the rat cowered back from her in fear.

"Peter Pettigrew, Grandmother. The wizard that not only betrayed Harry parents to Voldemort, but my parents too."

She watched Muriel's expression darken ominously, as she snarled at the rat, "You are sure of this?"

Hermione nodded.

"How did you know he was there?" Thoros asked curiously.

"I can see auras in my Phoenix form, so it was fairly simple to discern Crookshanks aura from Pettigrew's. Perhaps it's time to call the Aurors, Grandmother. Something tells me he won't escape justice this time around. Not if I have anything to say about it."

Muriel looked to Thoros who nodded with agreed understanding and left to go back inside to send a floo call to the Ministry—while everyone else just glared at the cage, where the ugly rodent was scampering—desperately trying to find a way out.

"Grandmother, isn't there such a thing as anti-animagus wards?"

Lucius chuckled and shook his head, "No, I don't believe there is, Miss Prewett. Perhaps that might be a field of Mastery for you to think about?"

Hermione's eyes glinted with interest as she bit her lip in contemplation—causing Draco, Theo and Harry to chuckle knowingly.

"I know that look." Harry quipped and Theo nodded.

"What?" Her expression was pure innocence as she clarified, "It's a decent idea."

"Salazar, witch!" Draco shook his head, "Maybe pass your NEWTS first before thinking about a Mastery in Charms?"

"Oh no!" Hermione grinned back with a wicked smile, "For something like that it would require at least a dual Mastery in Charms and Transfiguration. Maybe another in Arithmancy or Runes too."

Draco's expression was amused, but his eyes were flashing as he knew exactly why she was baiting him—and by the look on her face...

His little vixen knew it too.

Even his parents seemed amused.

"I suppose you don't plan to have a life after Hogwarts?"

"Why, Draco?" Hermione purred, "Would there be any particular reason I'd need to curb my academic pursuits?"

He shrugged and bantered back easily, "Not at all. Maybe I'll try out for a professional Quidditch team." He inwardly smirked at the narrowing of Hermione's eyes, before he turned his attention to Potter and Theo, "What do you think, Potter? Want to forego Auror training and see which one of us gets picked up first as a Seeker for a Quidditch team after graduation?"

Lucius tried not to immediately react, and even Narcissa sensed there was something she was missing based on the way her dragon and his future bonded were eyeing each other like prey.

A kind of brinkmanship for sure.

"You're bluffing." Hermione scoffed, and Draco just chuckled and wagged his finger at her.

"I suppose you'll have to wait and see, Princess—besides? I thought you had a thing for Quidditch players, or was Krum just an aberration?"

Hermione handed the rats cage back to Harry and stalked over to Malfoy, staring up at him with her hands on her hips, while he just looked down at her with that infuriating smirk on his pointed face.

"So what if I have a thing for Quidditch players?" Hermione taunted and Draco's eyes narrowed slightly, "Viktor is an excellent seeker, best of his generation," her lips lifted tauntingly, "and you seemed to think so fourth year, as I clearly recall you fanboying all over him."

"Fanboying?" Draco's expression morphed into confusion.

"Muggle phrase, mate." Harry grinned, hugely entertained.

Draco's response however was halted, when Thoros returned with Tonks and Kingsley.

"Good evening." Kingsley bowed to Muriel, who returned his formality with a polite nod of her own. Tonks however, was standing back eyeing her aunt with a wary expression.

Hermione, upon seeing the female Auror, rushed over to her and enveloped her into a crushing hug.

"Hey, Tonks."

The metamorphmagus just grinned indulgently, returning the affection, "Hey, Hermione. You're looking well."

"Thanks." She grabbed Tonks hand and brought her over to her Grandmother, ignoring the various stares of the rest of her guests.

"Grandmother," Hermione smiled widely, "allow me to introduce you formally to Nymphadora Tonks, but she goes by Tonks or Dora."

Muriel smiled demurely, "It is good to see you again, Dora. How is Andromeda these days?"

"She's well, Ma'am. She'd mentioned you both have taken to having tea weekly."

"We do."

Muriel's blue eyes settled briefly on Narcissa, whose own expression was a bit pinched.

"You remember the Malfoy Family?"

Tonks turned and nodded politely at her aunt, "I do. It's good to see you all."

Narcissa, although surprised by her niece's politeness, really shouldn't have been. Whatever her sister's mistakes in marrying outside her social class, Dromeda was a stickler for etiquette.

"You as well," Narcissa replied blithely, "have you formally met Lucius and my son, Draco."

Tonks turned and smirked at her cousin, "No...I haven't had the pleasure."

Draco understanding this moment for what is was...an olive branch of sorts...went over to his cousin, politely took her hand and bowed over it saying, "It is an honor to meet you, cousin."

Tonks just grinned and quipped back playfully, "For me as well, cousin."

Hermione smiled widely at them both, and Draco could see the pleasure in her eyes as she considered him.

But there was also a tinge of relief and gratitude as well.

He was surprised Hermione and his cousin were so well acquainted, but after the will reading— he probably shouldn't have been.

"So, what's going on, Hermione?"

Leading Tonks over to Harry, who smiled and nodded in turn, the Boy Who Lived lifted the cage and said icily, "Peter Pettigrew."

Dora stared in disbelief at the cage as she heard Kingsley's hiss of shock, but all she could finally get out was a stuttered, "How?"

"Do you want the short or long version?" Hermione replied and Tonks thought for a moment before replying, "Short."

So the short version was shared and Tonks just shook her head at both Harry and Hermione as she took the cage from them.

"Why do you think he was here?" Tonks asked with a hard edge to her voice, and the rest of the group looked to each other, having not considered that question at all.

"That is a question perhaps he can answer under Veritaserum." Muriel demanded, as it was clear nothing less would appease her. "And for the record, I do not wish Dumbledore to be involved in this without my permission, so please refrain from advising him directly. I'm sure Amelia will discuss it with me and we can make that judgement once the particulars are done."

Kingsley seemed surprised, while Tonks just nodded. "I'll let Madam Bones know of your request."

"Be sure that you do."

Thoros and Lucius smirked at the salty witch's display of dominance, but no one who knew Muriel Prewett would ever second guess that when she asked for something, she expected it to be followed through.

With no questions asked.

"Is there anything else we need to know?" Kingsley inquired before they left, and Muriel just waved her hand obliquely as if she was done with the intrusion into her family time.

"If there is, Kingsley, I will be sure to advise as such. Now take that thing off my property before I give it to one of my House elves to feed to my Granddaughter's feline."

Hermione at that moment called for her familiar, who meowed angrily as he jumped up on the bulstrode of the balcony and hissed at the rat.

"Good boy, Crookshanks." Hermione purred, reaching for her kneazle, lifting him up into her embrace and giving him a cuddle.

The loud meow and his orange eyes glistening at the offending rodent let everyone know that Crookshanks was not happy at being denied his tasty morsel.

Tonks said her goodbyes and Kingsley just bowed in departure as they left with their prisoner.

Once gone, the rest of the group headed back inside to take part in afternoon tea, not realizing the Pandora's Box that had just been opened.

Chapter 53: Seek...Her

Summary:

Heading back to Hogwarts.

Chapter Text

There hadn't been any word from the Ministry since Pettigrew's capture. The rest of the holidays hadn't been any easier for Hermione, as she'd finally gone to Muggle London to check in on her parents to see if they were doing well, only to find their home empty.

Sold.

Apparently when the spell broke, somehow, they'd sold their home and dental practice, relocating to Australia.

The thought saddened Hermione greatly, but in her heart she knew they'd be happy there.

They'd always talked about visiting Down Under some day.

Harry and Theo went with her into London. Theo was initially shocked and dismayed with how loud and crowded Muggle London was—but he'd wanted to go and offer his support, especially after Pettigrew's capture.

Both boys were being a bit more clingy than normal.

Even Malfoy, for all his bravado and bluster, had been surprisingly attentive too.

He'd come over the day before they were supposed to leave back for Hogwarts and brought Hermione a rare book on warding charms he'd found in his family's library. She'd thanked him profusely, before giving him permission to go fly with Harry and Theo, while she immersed herself in her new book.

When the day finally came to reboard the Hogwarts Express, Hermione spent most of the early part of the train ride with Harry, Ron and Theo—and the three of them couldn't seem to go for an hour together without debating the merits of Quidditch.

She wasn't sure there were any actual merits of Quidditch to be found, but it seemed if one was a teenaged wizard, then the primary prerequisite to debate all things Wronski Feint and whether or not someone's beater was better than someone's chaser, was strictly implied.

She sat back and thought about Quidditch terminology for a few moments, before she snickered—which caught the attention of her brother and cousins.

Then her snickers turned into guffaws...

Then outright hysterics, as she laughed uproariously at her own private joke.

"Uhm...Mione?" Ron asked, stupefied. "What's so funny?"

Hermione wiped her eyes with the back of her hand as her grin couldn't be contained, noticing three sets of eyes watching her with amusement tinged with confusion.

"It's nothing, Ron."

"It's clearly not nothing, Hermione."

Theo's voice was challenging, and she just rolled her eyes at her cousin.

But apparently Harry and Ron weren't convinced it was nothing either, and she just started laughing again as she simply couldn't get the inappropriate thoughts out of her head.

"Come on, Sis...share!"

Harry was smiling, his green eyes filled with happiness at seeing his sister so carefree, after she'd been understandably wallowing these past few days.

"It's really nothing," she admitted sheepishly, "I was just thinking about the strange names that are used for Quidditch."

The three boys looked to each other—clearly not getting what was so funny about that.

"Oh, come on!" Hermione snickered, "Bludger, beater, chaser...seeker?

The three boys were still staring at her and Hermione just shook her head and mumbled 'thick' under her breath, before standing up.

"I'm going to find the trolley, while you three can go on discussing Quidditch to your heart's content."

Ignoring their protests and requests for sweets, she found herself walking towards the back of the train, saying hello to a few people here and there, and squeezing past a few more.

The back part of the train was rather crowded, so she didn't immediately notice the shock of pale blonde hair in one of the compartments nor that same person sneaking up behind her until she was nearly to the far back of the train, where the trolley was currently located.

"What are you doing out here all alone, Princess?"

Hermione squeaked and turned around with her hand to her heart, before letting out a small huff at Draco's playful smirk.

"Sweets."

"Hmm," he pulled her next to him as he gazed over her head at the trolley, "I think you're sweet enough, already."

"Cheesy."

"Is it?" He flashed an impish grin.

"Definitely."

Moving up to next in line, Hermione felt Draco's hand seeking her's out. Blushing slightly, she allowed the concession as her fingers entwined with his.

His hand was cool, slightly calloused, and her magic hummed happily at the simple touch, causing her to sigh.

"What?" He leant down and whispered into her ear.

Her blue eyes gazed up into gray but she just shook her head subtly, as it wasn't something she wanted to discuss with others present. They were already catching some unwanted attention as it was, with their close proximity to each other.

"Something from the trolley, dears?"

"Uhm...I'll take a package of sugar quills and a pumpkin pasty."

"Ice mice and fizzing whizzbees please." Draco requested politely.

The trolley lady handed over the treats and Draco gave her the requisite galleons before leading Hermione back to the compartment he was sharing with Blaise, Goyle and Crabbe.

He kept ahold of Hermione's hand, ignoring the veiled whispers and open stares from everyone they passed along the way. When they finally got back, he opened the compartment door and ushered her inside, tilting his chin at Crabbe to scoot to the other side so he could sit down next to his witch.

"Hey, Prewett." Zabini smirked at his best mate, who rolled his eyes.

"Zabini."

Hermione glanced over at Crabbe and Goyle, but they were more interested in the treats Draco handed over to them both.

She glanced at him questioningly, "Didn't you get anything for yourself?"

"Nah. I wasn't really planning on visiting the trolley today, but I happened to see you walking by and figured that's where you were headed. These two tossers demanded I bring them their favorites back."

Hermione's expression softened, watching Crabbe and Goyle wrestling their goodies from each other, as they shared their bounty. Even Zabini seemed amused by their antics.

"Do you want to share mine?" She offered shyly, but Draco shook his head.

"I'm not a big pumpkin pasty fan, although I have been known to indulge in a sugar quill or two. Perhaps I'll get to later." He winked at her, causing her to blush at the clear double meaning. Blaise just scoffed and shook his head.

"What's the matter, Blaise? Amused?"

"You know me so well, Draco. I find everything amusing."

Hermione's gaze moved back and forth between the two wizard's, suspecting she was missing something.

It was hard not to be nervous in the presence of those who previously tormented her blood status and her bossy know-it-all nature. It also saddened her to think she was essentially the same witch, just with a different last name—but it seemed to make all the difference in the world to some.

Draco watched Hermione's brow furrowing, as it often did when she was deep in thought.

He'd always found her tendencies to overthink things both insufferable and exasperating. Now that he was fortunate enough to actually get to know her on a more personal level, he'd come to understand it was part of whom she was. Her perfectionist nature stemmed from an eagerness to please and to be accepted. She wasn't readily welcomed into the Magical World, because of her Muggleborn status, but just because she wasn't one anymore—didn't mean she'd fundamentally changed who she was.

"You okay?" Draco leant over and whispered lowly, watching as Hermione's gaze lifted to his and he could see several emotions there.

Uncertainty, sadness, and resignation.

"I'm fine."

He gave her a dubious look, then turned to his friends and asked, "You mind giving us a few?"

Blaise smirked again, while Greg and Vince just grunted, but thankfully they followed Blaise out of the compartment.

Once they were gone, Draco cupped Hermione's cheeks and quirked an eyebrow as if to say, 'well?'

"You didn't have to ask them to leave."

"Of course I did," he scoffed softly, "talk to me."

She instinctively knew Draco wasn't going to let this go, so she decided to bite the bullet.

"It's just odd, is all."

"What is?"

She waved her hand between the two of them, and wasn't surprised when Draco chuckled and nodded.

"It is."

Hermione's gaze narrowed while Draco just pulled her into his side and kissed her temple softly, feeling her ire abating some, before it got a chance to flourish.

"I know this isn't going to be easy for us, Hermione. We're two of the most stubborn people I know."

He felt her body shaking, and knew she was giggling in agreement.

"But I'm sure as time passes," he forged on, "we'll figure out how to not push each other's buttons, learn to compromise and have patience with the things we don't understand or can't change about each other. I'm a prat and you're a swot. I'm entitled and you're kind-hearted. I'm a snob and you're accepting. I'm a traditionalist and you're a feminist. But we're both smart, motivated and uncompromising when we feel passionately about something. Right now my priorities are you, my studies and my internship."

"Not Quidditch?"

Draco heaved a sigh, but he was biting back a smile too.

"Fine, witch!" He grumbled, "I would very much like to beat Potter just once before I graduate. Call it silly if you must..."

She lifted her head and cupped his left cheek in her right palm as she replied softly, "It's not."

"Yeah?"

She just swallowed and nodded as she lost herself in softened gray eyes that were staring at her.

Then Hermione suddenly remembered her earlier conversation with Harry, Theo and Ron and started snickering again, earning a confused look from Malfoy.

When he went to pull back, his expression closing off, she just shook her head in silent apology.

"Sorry," she pleaded, "I was just thinking back on an earlier conversation with Harry."

"Not helping, witch!"

"No! Seriously!" She lamented, "They were obsessively discussing Quidditch tactics and my brain registered something I'd never even considered before, but it just struck me as funny. They didn't get it though."

"Oh?" Draco's expression went from cold to conspiratorial in a flash, eager to have a shared secret between the two of them.

"Yes. I mean it's silly, really."

"Then share," he cajoled silkily, "maybe I'll get the joke too."

She eyed him speculatively. "You promise you won't make fun of me?"

Draco's expression immediately softened again and he put his hand over his heart and said with all the sincerity he could muster, "You have my solemn word, Princess."

"Alright," she said, and then breathed in a bit of courage before explaining, "I was just having a laugh over the names used in Quidditch. You know: Bludger, beater, chaser...seeker..."

Draco's brow furrowed as he wondered exactly what kind of connotation would make Hermione think that was amusing. He processed the words silently for a few moments and noticed Hermione sucking in her lower lip in anticipation to see if he would get the joke.

It took him about four minutes total...and when he got the context, his face morphed into a sexy smirk.

Then he chuckled deeply, pleased when his witch started to blush—but her eyes were alight with pleasure.

"What a naughty witch you are, Miss Prewett."

She just pulled in her lip harder, desperately trying to keep herself from smiling.

So his witch liked to play, eh?

Draco thought to himself as he tilted his head down and ran his lips softly on Hermione's neck, murmuring into her skin.

"So which one, my little deviant?"

Tiny kisses flowed up Hermione's neck as Draco barely touched her skin with his lips—which were oh, so soft and she shivered at the contact.

"I don't think Bludger, eh?"

She shook her head and giggled softly as his lips moved from her neck to behind her ear before he gently bit down on the soft, fragrant skin there—earning a hitched gasp.

"And a Beater?"

"No." She whispered, so he continued on the path from her ear to her temple.

"I could Chase you...you might like that?"

"Mmmm..."

Her head tilted back slightly as Draco kissed each eye lid and proceeded to wander his lips down Hermione's cheek.

Right before he stopped and hovered his mouth over hers, their gazes locked and he teased sinfully, "But right now? I think I'll Seek out a kiss, instead."

When Draco's mouth covered Hermione's, he felt her entire body molding perfectly into his. Their kisses were soft and sensual, with lips pulling and pushing on each other in perfect synchronization. Then he felt her tongue shyly caress the edge of his lower lip and he growled and opened his mouth, allowing his witch to have her way with him.

He didn't know how long they were sitting there, ravishing each other's mouths, but the clearing of Blaise's throat and his smarmy chuckle, had Draco promising himself he was going to hex the blighter, even if he was his best mate.

Thankfully, Hermione's back was to the compartment door and as Draco lifted his head, it was to several sets of eyes staring at them both.

Blaise, Potter, Theo, Weasley...

When he looked down at Hermione's face, she cracked open a single eye and whispered, "Bludger..." and he threw back his head and laughed hard, pulling her into his embrace as they both lost themselves to their private joke, not missing the looks of confusion on the faces of their friends...

That brought him up short...

Was he now friends with Potter and Weasley?

A single glance at the Boy Wonder and his red-headed side kick, and seeing their mutual grimaces of disgust?

Made him feel a bit better, as he simply couldn't abide being overly chummy with the witless duo, no matter how much his witch might love the dunderheads.

He still had standards after all.

"We need to get ready, Draco. We'll be getting to Hogwarts soon, so your little snogfest is going to have to wait for another time."

"Shut it, Blaise." Theo groused, shaking his head in warning, "Hermione, why don't you head back with Harry and Ron?"

Hermione nodded and smiled at Draco, as he stood and gallantly helped her to her feet, placing one last kiss on her knuckles and giving her another playful wink in parting. He grinned as she flipped her hair and sashayed out of the compartment, grabbing her Gryffindors to go with her. When she was gone, Theo just stared at him, while Blaise sat back down on the bench and chuckled.

"Are you going to chastise me, Theodore?" Draco drawled, while Theo continued to eye him intently.

It was starting to make him uncomfortable.

After a moment, Theo moved into the compartment fully, and shut the door before silencing the room.

"Did I miss something?" The Nott Heir bit out slowly.

Draco and Blaise side-eyed each other, but neither one of them were stupid nor ignorant.

"No, you didn't."

"So? You're snogging my cousin in public, and you've yet to send a formal letter of intent to her Grandmother? Or did I miss something?"

Draco sat down and gestured for Theo to do the same, which he did reluctantly after a moment.

"Theo, I haven't had that conversation with Hermione yet. She's still trying to get used to the idea of me being her likely bonded. You really need to allow her to take the lead and do what she needs to feel comfortable."

"And if you get to use her ignorance to your benefit?"

"Come on, mate, that's uncalled for!" Draco bit out, slightly hurt that Theo didn't know him better than that, "I'll admit, it wasn't well done of me to forget to place a few privacy charms before I snogged my witch in public, but one thing you need to understand about my dynamic with your cousin—is for all her Gryffindor bravado, if I do anything that makes her think I'm ashamed of being seen with her, those old insecurities about me and whether or not I'm a good choice are going to cause that brilliant, logical part of her brain to war again with her magic. Is that what you want?"

Theo's arms were folded over his chest in defiance, but Draco could see that his words had hit their mark.

"You really think she'll feel..."

"Yes I do." Draco didn't even let Theo finish his statement. He knew Hermione well enough to know that she would most definitely feel insecure under those circumstances and it was the last thing he wanted her to feel. "I'm letting her take charge here and do what feels right for her. Don't get in the way of that, Theo. You need to trust Hermione, that she can do this."

"And I'm just supposed to blindly trust you, too?"

"I would like to think you would, but we're Slytherins and we both know that trust isn't something we throw around lightly. If you can't trust in my intentions, you know you can trust in my self-preservation, right? I'd rather not be turned to ash if my witch has a fit of pique and decides to punish some perceived slight."

Theo nodded and chuckled. He definitely could trust Draco's sense of survival. He was a snake, through and through.

"Fine."

"Gee, thanks, mate. Don't sound so put out by the prospect."

"It's not that, Draco," Theo offered, "I just need to know you'll put her first always."

"Of that you don't have to worry."

"I'm going to hold you to that."

Chapter 54: A Shock to the System

Summary:

Hermione learns about Dolohov's escape and Pureblood courting in the same day.

Chapter Text

Several days passed by in the new term, before Hermione received word from her Grandmother about Pettigrew's fate.

Fortunately, the Prophet hadn't gotten ahold of the entire story as of yet, and Hermione was fairly certain that would be changing shortly, but what she didn't expect was the contents of her Grandmother's letter.

Pettigrew had been turned over to Madam Bones for interrogation and he'd been given Veritaserum as a result, but what information he'd given up had her paling and shaking in shock. When she handed the letter to her brother, Harry read the words and growled angrily; his fist slamming down on the Gryffindor table, startling everyone in the Great Hall.

He then turned his head and glared at the Headmaster, before gripping his sister's hand and pulling her with him out of the Great Hall, ignoring everyone's stares. Ron was close at their heels, as were Theo and Draco—who immediately grabbed their belongings and rushed out after the Gryffindor trio.

They'd made it as far as an empty classroom along the second floor corridor, before Harry led them inside and warded the room for privacy.

He then handed the letter to Ron, who read it and his angry, "Bloody hell" was followed by similar reactions from Theo and Draco.

Hermione felt her body shaking with uncontrolled rage and fear.

How in the fuck did Dolohov escape from Azkaban?

She didn't realize her magic was starting to manifest, until she felt the soothing touch of her wizard as he wrapped an arm around her and pulled her into his body...calming her instantly.

"It's going to be okay, Princess."

She gripped Draco's robes tightly and burrowed her head into his chest, not noticing the looks of astonishment from her brother and cousins.

"What are we going to do?"

Harry glanced over at Theo, who'd spoken up in angry disbelief.

"I think the bigger question is, how did Dolohov manage to get out of Azkaban and no one knew before now?" Ron gritted out, beyond irate.

"It had to be Pettigrew." Harry bit back in disgust.

Hermione lifted her head and stared up into worried gray eyes that were gazing down at her. Taking a deep breath, she turned around in Draco's embrace as he pulled her gently into the safety of his arms...trying to keep her calm.

"Grandmother didn't go into the particulars," Hermione lamented with a sigh, "I just wonder why it hasn't been reported in the Prophet."

"Probably because they don't want to encourage mass hysteria," Theo replied with a shake of his head, "after everything that happened with the mass breakouts last year, people will have their speculations."

"You're thinking people will think he's back?" Harry demanded and Theo shrugged, not needing to say the actual words for them all to know what he meant.

"What do we do?" Ron asked while Harry rubbed his scar, which he hadn't done in quite some time.

Not since before the Dark Lord had been defeated.

"I think we need to find out just what in Godric's name is going on!" Harry's voice and demeanor was aggressive, as he paced back and forth in the room, "I'm going to send an owl to Remus and Tonks. If anyone knows what's going on, it'll be them."

"I think that's a good idea, Harry." Hermione agreed readily.

"Are you going to be alright?"

"I'll be fine, Harry. Go, owl Tonks, and tell her I said 'hello' and I'll be expecting her to come visit me in Hogsmeade next month."

"I'll do that." Harry offered and left the room with Ron following close behind. Theo however, just stood there a bit awkwardly, unsure what to do.

"Are you going to head to the library?"

Hermione sighed, but shook her head in the negative, "Not right now, Theo. But you go on ahead, and I'll catch up with you later."

Theo's bright blue eyes gazed between his cousin and her new paramour, and his brow furrowed while Draco was trying his hardest not to sneer at his mate's obvious overprotectiveness.

"She'll be fine, Theo."

The Slytherin just glowered, but Hermione's finger pointing at the door, making her wishes clear—had him mumbling about bossy Gryffindor's.

Although, Theo did eventually leave.

After the door closed, Draco turned Hermione around and cupped her cheeks in his hands, eyeing her with concern.

"Are you sure you're okay?"

"No," she admitted with a sigh, "but thank you for calming me down."

Draco leant his forehead down to her own, and breathed his witch's sweet perfume in for a few moments, before he teased saucily, "Still think you're not mine?"

She scoffed, "No need to get all smug about it, Malfoy."

"Oh, Ho! So, I'm Malfoy again?"

"When you act like a self-entitled git, you are."

She couldn't help but blush at Draco's deep chuckle and heated look.

"Maybe you need a reminder?"

Wrapping her arms around his neck, she leaned up and whispered, "Yes, please."

Draco lowered his lips to hers, instantly deepening the kiss when their lips touched. Hermione's breathy moans didn't do much to help his self control, as he wrapped one hand around her waist and another cupped her cheek to hold her to him as he controlled the kiss just how he liked.

She seemed to enjoy it too, if the purchase of her hands on his neck and in his hair were any indication.

When they finally came up for air, Draco's hair was destroyed and Hermione's lips were red and swollen, causing him to rub his thumb along her lower lip in satisfaction.

"I probably shouldn't test Theo's patience."

"Theodore needs to learn I am my own witch and I can take care of myself. Besides, I'm not going to rush into anything physical, Draco."

"I do know that, and whatever else you might think of me, Hermione—I was raised to treat my witch with all due consideration and courtesy."

"How romantic."

Draco nipped her throat in warning, "Sarcasm is the lowest form of wit."

"Have much experience with that?"

"Touché," he bit back before his expression and tone took on a serious quality, "but really, I'm just happy to follow your lead. I know you didn't grow up with the same constraints I did, in regards to courting."

"Is that what we're doing?"

"I thought it was rather obvious."

She shrugged as she bit her lip, her blue eyes watching his expression closely as she admitted, "I wasn't sure what the protocol for this was? I mean, I didn't want to assume."

Shaking his head in exasperation, Draco pulled Hermione's hand with him as he guided her out of the classroom. "Theo chastised me on the train for not setting up privacy wards."

"When we were kissing?"

He nodded.

"You did call Adrian out on that, if I remember correctly."

"I did," Draco's voice was unapologetic, as he entwined Hermione's hand within his own and led her towards the library, taking notice of the looks of interest from their classmates, "but I also told Theo I didn't want you to think I wanted to hide this and although I haven't sent a formal letter of intent to your Grandmother, that is my intention. I suppose I was just waiting for you to give me the all clear."

Hermione stopped abruptly, her expression surprised, "Seriously?"

"Well...yes...I mean, I know you're somewhat of a feminist, Hermione. But traditions being what they are, I wouldn't want to minimize what we are building, nor would I wish to insult your Grandmother."

Hermione stared up at Draco as she contemplated all the various variables before sighing in resignation. She didn't necessarily like the idea of a formal courtship, but she did know enough from Theo and her Grandmother that something like this would be expected, and being who Malfoy was (and she herself, as having the kind of wealth that was part of her inheritance), a formal courtship and betrothal was therefore, expected.

Especially if Malfoy were to end up being her bonded—and as time passed, and her magic seemed more grounded, Hermione had to wonder if the only thing holding her back was herself.

"What would be entailed in a courtship?"

Draco's eyes widened as he cleared his throat and answered, "Uhm, well...several things really."

"Such as?"

Draco sighed. They'd reached the library and he turned to face her fully, his expression uncertain.

"Maybe this should be one of those instances you ask Theo about?"

"Why?" Hermione was curious as to why Draco would defer this conversation to her cousin.

"Because I'm sure there are several of the more noted Pureblood customs you're going to find antiquated and annoying, and I'd rather not be on the end of your ire when you inevitably hear something you don't like."

"Scaredy cat."

"Huh?"

"Muggle saying."

"Oh." Draco shook his head, then shooed her into the library. "Be that as it may, Theo is your resource for all things Pureblood courting and betrothal."

And with a wink, Draco left her standing at the library entrance with her mouth hanging open in shock, before her brain caught up and she blurted out in irritated amusement, "You're a snake, Malfoy!"

Draco pivoted around in a circle and smiled, "Guilty as charged, love."

He gracefully turned back in retreat, and Hermione couldn't help watch him sauntering away, his trousers molded to his arse rather fetchingly.

Fuck!

Who would've ever thought she be ogling Draco Malfoy's arse?

Definitely not her!

Shaking her head, Hermione walked into the library in search of her cousin.

It would seem she had a few things to learn about courtships and hopefully, it wouldn't piss off her righteous feminism too much.

Walking further into the library, it didn't take her long to find Theo in their usual study spot and as she plopped down ungracefully in her seat, she openly glared at her cousin, whose own expression was perplexed.

"Hermione?"

"So, Theodore? Tell me about this courting nonsense, please."

His gaze narrowed, and then he sat back with an amused grin. "What's the matter? Draco too much of a wuss to tell you himself?"

"Something like that."

"So he volunteered me?"

"Something like that."

Theo chuckled. "Didn't your Grandmother talk to you about it at all this past summer?"

Hermione considered this, then shrugged, "Not much. I get the feeling there's more to this than what I know."

"Probably," Theo agreed half-heartedly, "but I suppose a proper education never hurt anyone, right?"

"Don't get all smug on me, cousin. I just need to know for today at least, what is up with the public displays of affection. Draco called out Adrian and myself before school started back in August, when he caught us snogging in Madam Malkins. Then he did the same thing on the train and from what he tells me, you were rather peeved at him."

"I was."

"Okay?"

"He explained it to me, and I suppose I just needed to make sure Draco wasn't using your own ignorance of Pureblood customs against you?"

Hermione was shocked.

Did Theo think his friend would do such a thing?

Did she?

No, Draco was an elitist git but he valued his traditions and upheld them like a kind of armor. There was absolutely no way he would ever put her in a compromising situation. Even when he'd hated her...his words had been cutting and hurtful, but he'd never raised his hand nor wand to her.

At least not on purpose.

"Theodore..."

Hermione watched her cousin pull a bit into himself at her gentle rebuke, and she was quick to reassure him by grabbing his hand over the table and giving it a loving squeeze.

"I adore your willingness to make sure I'm being protected and taken care of, but sooner or later you're going to have to give Draco a chance to prove he can be a better wizard, right?"

"Blimey!" Theo groused out after a moment, "I never thought to see the day you'd be defending Draco, of all people."

"Me neither, but—here we are. I can't explain it and I'm fairly certain my logical mind hasn't quite wrapped around the idea of Draco and I as a forever sort of thing, but I can't deny the way my magic responds to him and I suppose only time will tell if he is indeed, meant to be mine."

"And you'd be okay with it?"

Hermione sighed as her brow furrowed in thought.

Was she alright with it?

Could she be alright with not only Draco, but Lucius and Narcissa as well?

"Would you think less of me if I told you I'm taking this one day at a time?"

"No. I'd probably take you to St. Mungo's myself if you were suddenly being all dewy-eyed and calling him Drakie-poo..."

Hermione snickered when Theo batted his eyes playfully at her, making kissy faces...which caused them both to officially lose it...

Right in the middle of the library.

By the curious and irritated looks they were getting, Hermione figured it was time to leave, especially when Madam Pince walked by and pointed at them to 'get out'...which they did, continuing to chuckle on their way into the hallway.

"So?" Hermione breathed in after she finally got her humor under control, "Pureblood courting?"

"We will start on it tomorrow. Let me owl my Father and see if he still has his copy of "Pureblood customs, courting and betrothals" at the Manor."

"Okay." Hermione lifted up on her tippy toes and gave Theo a sweet peck on the cheek, causing him to blush, "Thanks, cousin."

"You're welcome, Hermione. Anytime."

The two went their separate ways, and despite his worry over Dolohov's disappearance, Theo was happy that his cousin seemed to be able to compartmentalize it for the time being.

Chapter 55: What the Fuck!

Summary:

Hermione learns a thing or three about old Pureblood customs, and then goes on a rampage.

Chapter Text

No fucking way!!!!

Hermione glared mutinously at the book Theo had given her a week ago, and despite being a natural lover of all things educational, the thought of reading antiquated rubbish on courting rites, made her want to literally incinerate something.

Or someone.

Hmmm...now there's a thought!

'Pureblood customs, courting and betrothals' might as well be called: 'Arse backwards: the slow death of feminism.'

Okay?

So the book had some interesting points interspersed with utter Pureblood misogyny...but the more learned points?

...Young ladies' attire.--Situation in the world determines among ladies those differences which, though otherwise well-marked, are becoming less so every day. Every one knows that whatever be the fortune of a young lady, her dress ought always, in form as well as ornaments, to exhibit less of a recherché appearance, and should be less showy than that of married ladies. Costly cashmeres, very rich furs, and diamonds, as well as many other brilliant ornaments, are to be forbidden a young lady; and those who act in defiance of these rational marks of propriety make us believe that they are possessed of an unrestrained love of luxury, and deprive themselves of the pleasure of receiving those ornaments from the hand of the man of their choice at some future day...

So that one wasn't so bad, but it only got better from there...

...Many of the diseases to which the delicate and youthful of the female sex are peculiarly liable, and by which so many of them are hurried into the grave in the spring-time of their existence, may be traced to impropriety of dress: either in preventing, by its unnatural tightness and inconvenient form, the proper growth of the body, and the natural and free play of its various parts and organs, or to a want of caution in accommodating it to the temperature of the season, and to the various and rapid vicissitudes of the weather...

But her absolute favorite had to be...

...whether your pretensions to learning are well founded or not; the simple fact that you aim to appear learned, that you deal much in allusion to the classics, or the various departments of science, with an evident intention to display your familiarity with them, will be more intolerable than absolute ignorance...

WHAT THE FUCK!!!

She was going to find Theodore Nott and strangle his scrawny neck and then, she was going to hunt down Draco sodding Malfoy and stick his blonde ferrety face into a cauldron of bubotuber pus mixed with live leeches and a smidgeon of Snargaluff stump, just because it would be a fucking hoot to see him get choked by a venomous plant!

Did people really still believe in this shite?!?

Hermione's expression was thunderous as she stomped her way down into the Gryffindor common room, book in hand. Harry, who immediately smiled upon seeing her initially, frowned and then ran out the common room door like a coward...

Apparently brotherly affection only went so far.

Slamming out of the common room, Hermione stormed down towards the Great Hall, where dinner was now being served.

She'd spent all Sunday afternoon reading this codswallop, and by the Gods!

She really needed to hex someone good and proper.

From the fourth to the third landing, the staircase shifted and Hermione found herself with Luna as a companion, the Ravenclaw's serene expression not faltering a bit in the face of the older witch's rage.

"Are you alright, Hermione? You seem to be having a horrid case of wrackspurts today."

Blue eyes flashed as she glared at Luna, who normally would be immune from the wrath of the Gryffindor, but all Hermione could seem to get out was...

"Tell them to leave me alone or I swear on Godric Gryffindor! I'm going to hunt them down and turn them all to ash!"

Luna's eyes widened comically, but she didn't reply as they finally found themselves at the main level and the younger witch just watched with bemusement as Hermione Prewett headed straight for the Great Hall.

Upon entering, dark blue eyes scanned the Slytherin table and then narrowed as she spotted her prey. She could feel the stares of the other students and as such, she had absolutely no idea that her hair was on fire, as she marched over to the Slytherin table with the infernal book clenched in her right hand.

Theo was the first to spot her, and his eyes got as wide as saucers. He slapped Draco on the arm, but the ferret just pushed him back, as he was nose deep in a book of his own.

Theo's panicked, "Draco!" got the attention of the remainder of the students and faculty, as Hermione was nearly upon them.

"Theodore Nott!!!" She growled out, slamming the offending item on the table, "What in Merlin's name were you thinking giving this rubbish to me?"

Theo swallowed while Draco smirked, clearly amused by his witch's fiery personality.

"Hey, love..."

Hermione whipped her finger at him and snarled, "Don't you call me love...you unmitigated, misogynist prat!"

Draco coughed out a guffaw, but put up his hands in the universal sign of peace.

"Now, Hermione! That's why I let Theo explain..."

"Shut it, mate..."

"Just trying to help, Theo."

"Piss off, Draco."

Hermione's eyes darted from Draco to Theo as they continued to bicker, causing the rest of the Slytherin's to snicker at how ridiculous they both were being.

But that didn't change the fact that she was pissed!

"Excuse me!"

The entire Hall went silent, then there was a deep clearing of a voice and when she gazed behind her, Professor Snape was staring at her.

"Ten points from Gryffindor for causing a scene."

She growled and Snape's eyebrow quirked.

"Perhaps detention?"

"And perhaps I could set your robes on fire again, Professor?"

Snape blanched then his eyes narrowed, as everyone in the Great Hall collectively held their breath.

"Mr. Malfoy and Mr. Nott, please escort Miss Prewett to my office." When no one was quick to move, Severus snarled out, "Now!"

Draco and Theo wasted no time standing, while Hermione just glowered but followed them out of the dining hall and down towards the dungeons.

Hermione's temper hadn't quite abated, but at least her hair was more normalish.

Draco tried to take her hand, but she hissed at him and pulled away, continuing to outpace both boys in her stubborn defiance against all things patriarchal.

When they finally got to Snape's office, Draco gave the password and the three students sat down and waited for their Professor to arrive, which he did after another fifteen minutes. When Snape came into the room, he immediately sat down and glared at each of them in turn before he spoke, "Now please explain what the fuss is about?"

Theo sheepishly set the book he'd given Hermione on Severus desk. He'd grabbed it before leaving the Great Hall and based on the stunned expression on their Professor's face, Theo was beginning to wonder if he'd been an absolute tosser for giving his cousin that book.

It wasn't as if he'd read it.

His Father had taught him most of the Pureblood traditions verbally, as had their House Elves.

Shite.

He turned to glare at Draco, who was trying his hardest not to smirk at him.

That fucking prick!

Snape stared at the book as if someone had given him a case of Spattergoit...or worse...Dragon Pox.

"Let me get this straight?" Snape pinched the bridge of his rather large nose, "You felt the need to give Miss Prewett this book?"

"Well," Theo cleared his throat hesitantly, "Draco here suggested it."

The blonde whipped his head to the side and glared heatedly at his former, soon to be dead, classmate.

Severus however, lifted a condescending eyebrow that screamed, "Are you really that thick?"

"Professor?"

"Yes, Miss Prewett?"

Hermione sighed, clearly put upon at having to endure this ridiculousness. "Draco and I briefly, discussed courting and betrothals and like the consummate Slytherin he is, he deferred it to Theo, who probably in his defense has never even read that horrible book."

Theo shook his head in apology, and muttered under his breath, "No, but I won't make that mistake again."

"Miss Prewett, while I understand you've been thrust into a world you know very little about except for the less than stellar behavior of some within my House these past five years, there is much to be learned about proper Pureblood courting," Hermione scowled as Severus picked up the book in disgust, "but this would not be my first choice, nor do I suppose your Grandmother would've ever allowed this book into her home."

The three students snickered at the thought of Muriel Prewett following any of the antiquated shite in that book.

Even Severus lips twitched with amusement.

"However, it does not excuse your complete lack of decorum this evening. Perhaps a few of the more sedate traditions could be implemented?"

Severus waved the book, while she folded her arms over her chest and glared.

Theo and Draco watched the stare off between the two, before Hermione broke eye contact and sighed, stating sheepishly, "I'm sorry, Professor. I don't know what's wrong with me."

"What do you mean?"

"My magic? I think it's making my emotions all over the place."

Draco and Theo's expression changed immediately from amused to concerned.

"I see. Are you having a harder time controlling your range of responses?"

"Yes, I think that's it." Hermione agreed hesitantly.

Snape glanced at Draco, whose brow was furrowed with confusion.

"Does it ever seem settled?"

Hermione blushed and nodded, her eyes immediately darting to Draco's, who took her hand instantly and Severus was surprised to see the tension within the witch abate upon the touch of his godson.

"Curious," he drawled, "perhaps we should start back on your Occlumency training, Miss Prewett—and perhaps it might be a prudent choice to have Mr. Malfoy attend as well. His Occlumency is fairly advanced, and his Legilimency is rudimentary, but perhaps in this instance it might be helpful to see how this bond you two are forming might be benefitted by working together?"

Draco's eyebrow lifted in surprise, inquiring curiously, "You think that will help?"

"I do not know, but I think it's worth a try, as I'd rather not have Miss Prewett burn the castle down."

Hermione glanced again at Draco and he smiled, nodded and winked at her.

"Okay." Her voice was calmer, and even Theo could see the affect Draco had on his cousin.

"As for your other comment, Miss Prewett?"

Theo and Draco grinned widely, while Hermione blushed deeply.

"Well...Uhm..."

"Uhm, indeed. Do I take it to mean that it was you, who set my robes on fire during the Quidditch match back in your first year?"

Hermione's gaze darted everywhere at once, while the two gits sitting on either side of her were doing a piss poor job of trying to control their mirth.

"Maybe?" She whispered.

There was a heartbeat of silence and when she glanced up, Snape was considering her with an unfathomable expression on his face.

"I thought it was you cursing Harry's broom," she rushed to clarify, "and I'd read all about curses and hexes and you have to maintain eye contact. It just looked as if..."

"I see." Severus interrupted what was sure to be a long-winded rant.

"Should I apologize?"

"Do you feel it necessary after five years?"

"Well, when you put it that way..."

"Perhaps detention next Saturday might be in order. Two hours, my office after dinner."

"Yes, Sir."

"Now get out and don't let me see you behaving in such a manner again, Miss Prewett. I'm afraid as a Professor, I can't condone the setting of students on fire in a fit of emotion, even if I would otherwise applaud the opportunity."

Hermione huffed, while Theo and Draco just snickered.

Severus watched the three students go, and heaved a sigh of complete exasperation.

He really despised being a Professor sometimes.

Chapter 56: Courting 2.0

Summary:

Hermione gets another lesson in Pureblood courting.

Chapter Text

Hermione decided to write to her Grandmother after the whole debacle with Theo, Draco and the ridiculous book on Pureblood courtship nonsense. When Muriel had written back a couple days later, there had been a small book enclosed, and this one was a bit more modern in terms of how exactly a courtship was supposed to proceed.

The standard Letter of Intent was the first thing of note...

A wizard who seeks to openly court a witch, must in all good conscious; seek out the approval of his chosen's Paterfamilias to gain their unwavering support and guidance. The verbiage of the missive should be preceded by increased formal relations, an invitation to better acquaint unity between the wizard's Family and that of his chosen one, as well as the customary token of good will.

Hermione had no idea what the 'token of good will' as such, entailed—but she was fairly certain she'd be learning about that soon enough. She continued to read on...

Once an open familial dialogue has been established, and his suit given appropriate standing; a wizard should take this opportunity to show his felicity and adoration through simple gestures designed to prove his singular devotion. Outings, in both Public and Private, should not only be met to seek knowledge and compatibility, but should be done so with all due respect to a witch's chastity and virtue. A wizard should never egregiously seek to put his witch's affections so baselessly on display to garner unwitting distress upon his intended's station.

So that explained the whole Adrian confrontation back before sixth year started.

A wizard's sole purpose in proper courtship is to constantly reassure his chosen one, that his present and future regard is unwavering and absolute. Consideration should always be paramount with the proposition in mind that a witch is to be treated with all due courtesy and civility. When an appropriate time has past, a wizard should solidify his intent by the bestowing of the Gift of Fidelity. Such acceptable gifts, take well into account the witch's preference, tastes and demeanor and should never seek to cement ownership; but only be representative of the truest devoir, respect and affection.

Gift of Fidelity?

That was interesting.

Once an offering of Fidelity has been given and received willingly, a wizard may feel centered in his pursuit that his chosen witch has accepted his ability to care and protect. A Gift of Fidelity is the truest sign of pledging one's troth, and should only be given and received upon the shared belief of the inevitable outcome leading to an unsurpassable lifelong bonding.

Well, that was something she'd have to wrap her mind around.

If she accepted a gift from Draco, that would indicate that she was his and he was hers?

It seemed archaic, but oddly sweet too.

And not for the first time, that little voice in the back of her head wondered if Draco had manipulated this whole scenario so she wouldn't be as put off and angry about some of these more archaic traditions after reading that God awful book that Theo had given her.

It would be the inherently Slytherin thing to do, and Draco was—if nothing else...a true snake.

There had been other parts of the book Hermione found equally off-putting in such a way, that her overt feminist ideology was having a hard time coming to terms with it all. She'd always been cursorily aware of some of the Pureblood traditions like the Family Tree, the Sacred 28...but even so, there were still so much she didn't know.

Her Grandmother didn't seem to be pushing any kind of agenda either, beyond a few of the more notable issues, like House Elves. But for the most part, Muriel had allowed her the time and space to figure things out for herself.

She was both grateful and frustrated there was so much that was expected of her, due to being a Prewett.

Walking down towards the Library, Hermione had to wonder just how stringent Draco was when it came to some of these customs.

The one custom about doing charitable work in lieu of an actual job was something that she found offensive—but not because she didn't believe that charitable work would be a good practice or use of her time, energy and resources.

No?

It was because she felt offended that it was just arbitrarily assumed that a woman couldn't have both a career and do charity work.

She had always been rather gifted at multi-tasking.

Hermione eventually found the one person she was looking for in his usual spot, and sat down across from him with a determined look on her face.

It was a few moments later, that an amused gray gaze lifted to lock with hers.

"What can I do for you?" Draco's voice drawled lowly, his head tilted questioningly at her.

Hermione placed the book her Grandmother had sent on the table between them, unsurprised when Draco didn't react at all.

"And?"

"You know, that was a rather sneaky trick to pull on poor Theodore." Hermione began as she kept eye contact, calculating every mannerism of the wizard across from her. But to his credit, his Occlumency gave nothing away, "I just don't understand how in Godric's name you knew that the book he gave to me wasn't going to be this particular one?"

She tapped the cover of the offending item with her index finger, while Draco just sat back and folded his arms over his chest—his expression completely devoid of all emotion.

"I don't know what you're talking about, love."

"Of course you don't, prat."

Their stare off lasted several more minutes before Draco sighed heavily. He grabbed the book his witch had brought and opened it, perusing through the first few pages with a slight lifted smirk hovering over his face.

He then set it down and slid it back towards her, stating clearly, "I will confirm nothing."

Taking the book and setting it aside, Hermione gripped Draco's hand in her own, watching his eyes widening slightly and his expression morph into something more wary.

"Don't play games with me, Draco," her voice was part irritated and part hurt, "granted, I know I'm not the easiest person to have had this conversation with..."

"That's an understatement." He interrupted, mumbling in his own defense and then flinched when his witch's eyes narrowed in warning.

"However, if we're going to have any hopes of a real relationship, you'll need to help me understand what's expected and not try and manipulate me into doing what you want by pissing me off first."

Draco just sat there stoically, as he considered Hermione's words.

He had purposefully set Theo up, not because he'd wanted to make Hermione upset, but because he KNEW she would have been regardless, despite what information had come her way.

At least with Theo, Draco felt Theo would be relatively safe from her wrath.

He, on the other hand?

"Let me ask you something?"

"Okay?"

"If I had given you that book initially, or had discussed some of the more archaic practices in terms of courting, what assumptions would you've immediately jumped to?"

Hermione went to open her mouth to give defense, but caught herself first.

The truth was, she wasn't wholly certain how she would've taken any of this information well, had it come from Draco. Their past wasn't stellar, and he'd often made fun of her lack of knowledge when it came to magical customs. So, it was probably reasonable of him to assume that she'd have reacted negatively.

At least before thinking it through with the logical part of her brain.

Draco could see the moment Hermione realized he'd made a valid point. Her shoulders sagged and her expression fell sheepishly.

She couldn't even make eye contact with him.

"I knew the exact book Theo's Father would send, because the Nott family hasn't had a female born into it for centuries. The Malfoy Family too. My Mother has a copy of that book, but I'd imagine Theo's mother, since she died when Theo was young..."

"Ah," Hermione nodded in understanding, "that still doesn't make me feel any better, Draco."

"I didn't think it would, but I didn't know how else to get my point across in a way you'd understand, without you thinking I was taunting your lack of Pureblood upbringing."

"Which you assumed..."

"And I would've been right." He finished with a pointed look.

Hermione turned her head away, pursing her lips and swallowing uncomfortably.

Git.

"Fine..." she lamented, "but how are we going to be able to talk about this stuff without assuming the worst of each other?"

"I think the question is, love—how are you not going to assume the worst about me?"

"Draco..."

He shook his head as he squeezed her hand, "I'm not saying you don't have a right to think and feel the way you do. I've apologized, it's true, but trust doesn't just bloom in the absence of a shared positive history. Hermione, I want to earn that with you, and you need to know here—that now that I've gotten your attention, that I'll never knowingly make you feel lesser because you didn't grow up in this world. I do know that sounds five years too little too late, but I can't undo our past. I can only vow to do better and treat you how I should've done, regardless of your heritage."

"But we'd never be here now together, if it wasn't for that heritage."

Draco couldn't help but feel awful for how fore-lorn Hermione looked in that moment.

"Probably," he wasn't going to lie, "but I can't tell you how happy I am that we have this chance. You have to know, love—I want this and I'm willing to do whatever you need me to do to make this work. I don't expect a subservient witch. You'd turn me to ash if I did."

Her slight giggle and nod was all the confirmation Draco needed to know he was right in his assumption.

"You're too fierce, independent and stubborn to be anything but the remarkable witch you are. Whatever you want for your future, I'll support it fully—no questions asked."

"Really?"

Hermione's expression was hopeful, causing Draco to chuckle at how earnest she appeared.

"Yes, really."

There was a bit of silence before she inquired, "Did you already send a Letter of Intent to my Grandmother?"

Draco shook his head in the negative, "No, I was waiting for you to decide that you wanted me to."

"Oh?"

"Yes."

"Yes." She replied immediately with a soft smile, and then giggled when Draco's face registered her acquiescence.

Then a self-satisfied smirk broke out over his face.

"Then I probably should get on that post-haste, don't you think?"

Hermione shrugged, "Well, if you really need to."

"Minx." Draco's voice was playful as he removed his hand from her grip, stood up, and then packed his books away.

She watched him bemused, before he came over and pulled out her chair, leading her into his side before they walked out of the library together.

"Where are we going?"

"I'm going to take you to Slytherin, put my supplies away, and then write letters to your Grandmother and my parents."

"And I need to be there for this?"

"What?" Draco snarked out, "You're really going to play at the fact that you're just going to be okay with me sending something that concerns you, and not want to read it before I send it?" He scoffed, pulling her closer into his side, leaning down and whispering into her ear, "Do you think I have a death wish, Princess?"

Blue eyes stared up into stormy ones as they continued to walk towards the dungeons together. When they finally got the the entrance to the Slytherin dorms, Draco asked cheekily, "Want to come inside?"

Hermione eyes widened comically, "You're serious?"

"Deadly." He admitted, "Where's that Gryffindor bravery, Princess?"

Hermione rolled her eyes, before she bit out, "Open the door, snake."

"With pleasure, love."

Murmuring the password, Hermione watched stunned as the once blank wall now showed the entrances to the Slytherin common room.

As it opened, Draco made sure his witch was firmly at his side.

He was rather looking forward to the message this was going send.

Chapter 57: Intentions

Summary:

As Hermione finds herself in the snake pit, Draco makes his intentions clear.

Chapter Text

Whatever Hermione thought to expect upon entering the Slytherin Common Room, (especially after Harry and Ron's previous clandestine visit back during their second year), the stark austerity of it was far more imposing.

It had an old world elegance that was difficult to define.

Draco led her inside, and the main room wasn't quite filled to capacity, but there were several groups of students milling about in different areas. She glanced around wide-eyed, taking in the groups that were assembled.

"You alright?" Draco whispered into her ear, and Hermione nodded because really, what could she say?

In all her years at Hogwarts, this was the very last place in the castle she ever thought she'd be welcomed in.

Then they were spotted by Blaise and Theo.

"Well, well, well..." Blaise purred with a shite-eating grin, effectively halting all discussion, as everyone turned to where he was looking at.

Bloody tosser!

"I didn't know we were allowing lions into the snake den, mate?"

Theo stood up and smiled widely, coming over immediately.

"Hey, cousin," his tone was playful, "did you lose a bet?"

"Nice, Theodore," Draco drawled with a smirk, "but no, there was no bet involved."

"Then why is she here?" Pansy bit out from across the room and Hermione's gaze narrowed, immediately noticing the pug-faced witch sitting with her usual suspects.

"Piss off, Pansy!" Theo grumbled in disgust, "No one's interested in your petty posturing."

"Oh, I'm sorry?" Pansy snarled, "Was I required to be pleasant today? I didn't get the memo."

There were a few chuckles, but one glare from Draco had them all shutting up instantly.

"We were just on our way to my room to drop off my school bag. I need to get a letter written off immediately." Draco eyed Theo with a heavy gaze, and Theo's eyes widened at the unspoken meaning.

"Really?" He whispered, reaching for his cousin's hand to get her attention.

Hermione sighed and nodded, "Apparently he thinks I'm going to fry his arse if I don't read the blasted thing before he sends it to my Grandmother."

The room went deathly quiet before Pansy shrieked out, "You've got to be fucking kidding me?!"

Hermione rolled her eyes and then bit out harshly, "Shut it, Parkinson!" Her voice carried over the room and she felt Draco's body shaking with mirth next to hers, "You know, I'm getting quite tired of your petty jealousy," she then moved slightly out of Draco's embrace as she eyed the other witch like prey, taunting, "you didn't honestly think that Draco was going to choose you, did you?"

Pansy just stared at Hermione gobsmacked, the black-haired witch's face turning an interesting shade of red.

"Oh you did, didn't you?" Hermione face morphed into a obvious pout, before finishing mockingly, "That's so sweet."

There were a few more coughs and a couple loud guffaws, although Hermione couldn't see where they were coming from.

"And delusional." Daphne piped up from behind a large ficus plant.

"I think that must be her middle name, yes?" Hermione grinned at the blonde witch, who smiled right back at her.

"It's one of them." Daphne moved forward and smiled in welcome, "I don't believe we've ever really been properly introduced. Daphne Greengrass, Slytherin."

"More like blood traitor." Pansy griped, causing the blonde witch to roll her eyes in disdain.

"Ignore, Parkinson. We all do our best, for the most part. Her voice is like Professor Binns mated with a hyena, cross-bred with a feral cat."

Hermione lost it as she threw her head back in raucous laughter—causing Draco, Theo and Blaise to follow suit.

As well as most of Slytherin House, too.

Apparently, Pansy Parkinson wasn't well liked within her own house.

Shocker!

"Laugh it up, Prewett, while you can, but just know, I'll be the one laughing in the end."

Pansy stood up and left the room with her smallish entourage, causing Theo to give Draco a confused look.

What in the ever-loving fuck did Pansy mean by that?

"She really is a sore loser, isn't she?" Hermione shook her head and chuckled.

"Always has been." Daphne agreed, grabbing Hermione's arm and pulling her further into the common room as she glanced back over her shoulder at Draco, Theo and Blaise.

"Go attend to your due diligence, Draco."

"Yes, Ma'am." Draco quirked an eyebrow, then headed immediately for his dorm room, figuring Hermione would be safe with her cousin and his friends.

As he set his book bag down, he pulled out his best parchment, quill, ink and his Malfoy crest stamp before he got started on the first letter to his parents.

Dear Mum and Dad,

I'm writing this in hopes that you both are well. I have finally managed to somehow convince Hermione to allow me to offer for her hand to Lady Prewett, so this letter is to inform you both that this is my intention. I haven't discussed the specifics of the betrothal contract with Hermione, and if it's alright, I would prefer to do so before you open negotiations with Lady Prewett. Technically, I suppose we'll need to put down something, but I'm not sure what the protocol is for this. Our situation is rather unprecedented, as you both know.

As each day passes and we spend quality time together, I'm more and more convinced that I am her chosen mate. I believe she knows it too—deep down. She's stubborn, willful and utterly amazing.

If you haven't guessed by now, I'm rather smitten.

If there might be a way you can see fit help me with that request, Mum, I'd be ever so grateful.

Yours affectionately,

Draco

Draco set that letter aside and then pulled out a fresh piece of parchment. As he started to put the quill to words...he felt his heart racing a bit with excitement and a tinge of fear.

This was it.

Once this letter was sent, he'd be, for all intents, engaged by the end of the year. He knew that Hermione would want to do a Mastery, and truth was he did too...but it didn't change the sentiment nor the fact that they'd be together.

He was fairly chuffed by the fact.

Taking a deep, cleansing breath...he locked down his Occlumency shields and set to task writing his thoughts down.

Dearest Lady Prewett,

I hope this letter finds you well and in good spirits. I suppose I don't need to explain the reasoning for this correspondence other than tradition dictates I make my sentiments known where your Granddaughter is concerned.

I know you've likely heard stories of how I was in my younger years. How I teased and was rather unkind to Hermione, due to her perceived heritage at the time. You might believe that I'm not an ideal choice for your Granddaughter, and I don't think I'd be remiss in agreeing with that sentiment. The Draco Malfoy of a year ago, would've never been a worthy suitor for Hermione's hand.

Now that my family is free of the shackles that have weighed heavily upon it for so long, I feel for the first time in my life that I can breathe the fresh air and take in the world around me with a vision unfettered by expectation. But the truth is such that when I look at my present and future, all I see is Hermione. It is with this regard that I formally ask for your permission to enter into a formal courtship with your Granddaughter.

The fact that she's allowed this concession will baffle me until the day I leave this life.

You have my solemn vow as a Malfoy, that I will treat her with all the deference and courtesy, care and support that she deserves as your Heir and as my future betrothed. (If she doesn't turn me into embers first)

I can do no more than what honor dictates, except follow my heart.

It is hers, and will only ever be hers.

I await your reply with the upmost felicity and expectation.

Your humble servant,

Draco Lucius Malfoy

Draco read and re-read the letters several times each before nodding to himself, pleased with the final result. He then set them in his desk drawer and warded it shut temporarily, heading back into the common room to get his witch.

When he entered—Hermione was sitting with Blaise, Daphne and Theo but also with Crabbe, Goyle and Tracey Davis.

"Hey." He moved towards Hermione, who was currently sitting in between Theo and Daphne.

"Hi." Her smile was part relieved, and part happy to see him.

"I came to borrow you for a moment."

"Okay."

She allowed Draco to pull her up, but when Theo stood to follow, Hermione shook her head in the negative.

"Theodore, I'll be fine."

There were a few chuckles, but Theo didn't look too happy.

"You're being a bit over-bearing, Theo," Daphne piped in with a grin, "Hermione's a big girl, and if I'm understanding things correctly, after tomorrow, next day at the latest, Draco is going to be her intended."

Draco smirked but didn't deny it as he led Hermione to his dorm room—blatantly ignoring the interested sets of eyes following their every move.

Once he got her inside, he locked and warded the room.

He watched amused, as Hermione gazed with interest around his space...seemingly impressed with what she was seeing.

"You have your own room?"

Draco nodded. "First through fifth year's bunk together but starting sixth year, each student gets their own room."

"Nice."

And it was.

The room was decorated in the usual Slytherin colors, but with a tinge more black as was his preference. Everything had its place and it was neat and organized. As she walked over to the bookshelf, her eyes widened at some of the selection Draco had available—her expression registering awe with a bit of envy.

She heard Draco chuckling behind her, and she couldn't help the blush that stole over her cheeks.

"So I'm a bookworm! Sue me!"

"Nah, but I would like you to read these letters so I can get them sent off this evening."

"Okay," Hermione felt suddenly shy, "if you're certain?"

Draco moved over and grabbed her hand gently, leading her to the small loveseat he had by a window that looked out directly into the Black Lake.

"I am." His words were resolved, as he handed her the first letter—the one he'd written to his parents. He watched with bated breath as Hermione opened the first letter and read through his words, her eyes widening when she got towards the end.

When Hermione looked back up at him, Draco could tell she was having a hard time controlling her emotions. He could see her throat moving, as if she was desperately trying to swallow back her feelings.

After a minute she nodded, so he took that as permission and handed her the second missive. Watching closely as she read through the letter to her Grandmother...

Her first response appeared to be shocked disbelief...

Then he swore she read it a second time...he noticed her eyes flying over the page again...

And this time her blue eyes started to tear up slightly...

The third time her gaze flew even quicker over the parchment, before her gaze lifted and met his—and he held back a gasp...as she launched herself at him and snogged him passionately.

His answering surprised groan couldn't be helped.

Then somehow Hermione was straddling him, her hands pulling his head back as she took control of the kiss, and all he could do was grab onto her hips and hold on for dear life.

But fuck he wasn't complaining at all.

She tasted like fire, sunshine and sweetness all wrapped up in a perfect package.

After a bit, she broke the kiss, her eyes darkening with lust, as she stared down into his own.

"Did you mean it?"

He just nodded dumbly, apparently too stunned to get any words out.

Her smile was blinding and he couldn't help but respond in kind. They just gazed at each other before a knock sounded on his door.

With an unhappy groan, he lifted Hermione off his body and placed her gently next to him, breathing heavily through his nose, desperately trying to get other parts of his body to calm down too.

Then the knock sounded again.

"Theo?" She whispered, and he nodded.

"It's likely." He groaned slightly. He stood quickly and then smirked at how disheveled Hermione looked, and by her shite-eating grin, he probably didn't look much better.

Waving her hand, Draco felt her magic settling over him and he winked.

"Do I look presentable, after you tackled me?"

Hermione's blush was rather fetching, but she just quipped back, "I didn't hear you complaining."

Draco pulled her into his side and kissed her temple sweetly, admitting, "I wasn't."

"Good to know."

He just grinned, then grabbed both letters, placing them into their respective envelopes—sealing and shrinking them for transport.

"Want to go to the owlry with me?"

"I suppose that might be a more appropriate use of our time?"

"Possibly, but definitely not as fun."

Hermione shook her head, grabbing his hand and leading them both out of his dorm room, and all Draco could think of, was—how in the fuck was he going to be able to wait until they were formally betrothed, to make Hermione his in every way!?

Patience had never been his strong suit after all.