A/N: I do not own any character references by JK Rowling in the Harry Potter series. This story is a product of my pure imagination.
We were both young when I first saw you.
I close my eyes, and the flashback starts.
I'm standin' there,
On a balcony in summer air.
See the lights, see the party, the ball gowns.
See you make your way through the crowd,
And say, "Hello".
Little did I know.
~ Love Story by Taylor Swift
A/N: This chapter, Hermione starts a relationship with Draco. He will initially be mentioned, but when they become a romantic relationship, the scenes will be included in their story, Snow on the Beach, also posted today. You do not need to read that story if you do not want to. Hermione will summarize main points with Luna without too much detail for those who don't want to hear about Hermione/Draco. Mentions in this chapter do not start until December.
*~*~* March 1, 2008 *~*~*
Hermione looked up as Luna entered the floo, "Hey, Luna. Thanks for coming over again."
"Sorry that I couldn't come during the week. Lysander got a horrible cold, and then Lorcan got it. I didn't want you to get sick," Luna told her.
"I appreciate it," Hermione said as they climbed the stairs to her office. Luna walked behind Hermione's desk and opened her notebook.
"Where did we leave off?" Hermione asked.
"June of 2004," Luna told her, "Harry was away still at training."
*~*~* June 5, 2004 *~*~*
Holding Teddy's hand tight as they walked up the stairs from the underground, she got out of the way and knelt down next to him, "I need you to stay with me; it's going to be very busy. You can't run off from me, okay?"
Teddy grinned, "Will there be candy?"
Hermione laughed as she ruffled his curls, "I'm sure we can find you something."
People were milling about, coming and going, as they headed towards the first merchants selling their wares at the Camden Street Festival. They were supposed to meet at the Buckstreet Market, where one of Parvati's friends was set up selling her homemade soaps and other apothecary-style homemade products.
"Look at all the lights, Momma!" Teddy exclaimed, his hair getting small streaks of blue at his excitement.
"I see them, Teddy," Hermione smiled down at him as she opened the door to the market, "We will try to see as much as we can tonight, I promise."
Walking inside, she only had to walk a short way before she saw everyone had already made it before them, "Sorry, we had a bathroom emergency on the underground and had to get off to find a loo."
Luna held her hand out, "Hey, Teddy Bear, glad you are with us tonight."
Teddy slapped her hand, "I'm so excited! I'm six now! Where is Mr. Rolf?"
Luna smiled, "At home with the boys, but all the other guys are at Ginny's Quidditch match."
Alicia shook her head, "Two years in a row making the Quarterfinals. She better watch out. The Cannons will try to get her there before she knows it."
"They don't have a chance, and she wouldn't stoop that low," Pansy stated.
Hannah leaned over to Hermione, "Did you hear about Neville and Modesty?"
Hermione frowned, picking up a soap and smelling it, "No, what happened?"
"They broke up. Modesty is moving somewhere, and they decided the long distance would be too hard," Hannah shrugged. "Poor Neville was devastated when he came to Leaky the other night. Talking about Leaky, where have you been?"
"I've decided to give up drinking for a while," Hermione told her as she set the soap down, "It was too much." She told her, taking the soap from Teddy and setting it down.
Moving out of the Apothecary booth, Hermione moved on to the booth Luna was in, admiring hand-crafted jewelry with Padma and Lavender. Daphne, Pansy, and Parvati were trying on exotic scarves and giggling like schoolgirls in the booth across from them.
Teddy sniffed the air, "Something smells good, Momma."
"We will find out what it is," Hermione told him, and Hannah and Alicia followed them.
In the courtyard between two buildings was a funnel cake booth with a face painting artist next to it.
"Momma, can I?!" Teddy asked, his eyes wide with excitement.
Luna walked up to him, "I will pay for it myself. What do you want? I think I will get a unicorn."
Teddy looked at the poster with his options, "A dragon!"
Hermione held a funnel cake in one hand and Teddy's hand in the other as they walked down the streets of London past booths of all kinds, and Teddy rawred at passerby.
"You are an amazing dragon, Teddy," Luna told him as they turned onto Camden High Street. Most shoppes displayed wares outside them, showing what they were selling. Music filled the streets as they navigated through people in the food market before making it to the Stables marker. Teddy marveled at the umbrellas that hung over their heads as they walked through. Hermione stopping to buy him a shirt with a dragon on it at his insistence.
They were near the area that paralleled Diagon Alley beyond the hidden border when they stopped at a vendor with games for kids. Hermione smiled as Daphne helped Teddy with his game when the static sounds of the Wizarding Wireless met her ears. Turning, she found the vendor behind her crouched over a radio.
"…ten more points for the Harpies, scored by Ginny Weasley! Look who is in attendance, everyone, Harry Potter is here!"
Hermione's heart dropped. Harry was back in the UK and hadn't told her. Daphne came up next to her, "Did you know he was back?"
"No," Hermione replied, "I didn't know."
Trying to push it aside and focus on Teddy, who had just won a stuffed dragon, Susan approached them with a familiar face behind her.
"Hey guys, I just ran into Justin, and we are going to get some coffee and catch up. Do you mind?" Susan asked.
"Hello, Justin," Hermione said to Justin Finch-Fletchey, who awkwardly waved to them. "Go have a great time."
"Thanks, see you all later!" Susan said as she and Justin walked off together.
Their group continued on, but Hermione found herself more distracted. Eventually, they found their way to a less busy, cozy outdoor seating area. Hermione ordered Teddy a fizzy, sugar-free drink and herself a coffee, and the other girls came to join them. Catching up, Teddy crawled into Hermione's lap, clutching his stuffed dragon.
"This has been a good night. I'm glad you started inviting me," Daphne said, "We should do this more often."
"Absolutely, being a mom is harder than I thought it would be, and I need these nights," Lavender said.
Hermione looked down at Teddy, who had fallen asleep, "I'm not ready for another one, but I got lucky with Teddy."
Hannah smiled at her, "He is a great kid. You and Harry are doing great with him. Professor Lupin would be proud."
Rubbing Teddy's back, she smiled, "I hope so."
Hermione was in the dining room working on her centaur bill when she heard two male voices in the sitting room. Jumping up, she shushed them, "Teddy just got to sleep!"
Harry looked at her, "Sorry, wait. I lost my glasses, and you get them!"
Hermione ripped her glasses off her face, "It's just for reading at night when my eyes get tired."
Harry grinned as he walked past her, "I think they are cute."
Hermione looked at Ron, "Did they win?"
"Yes, semifinals next week," Ron told her as he saw the mess on the table, "I thought you were going to that market thing."
"I did," Hermione said as she started organizing her papers, "It just didn't last all night, especially with Teddy. Lavender and Luna had to get home to their kids, too."
"Shite, we are all really grown up now," Ron frowned.
Hermione laughed, "Yeah, Ron, we are." Harry returned to the dining room with a glass of water, "When did you get back?"
"Around noon, and I went straight to the game," Harry told her, "They decided that three weeks of MACUSA training was enough. I get a week off before I have to go back to work."
Hermione nodded, "That's nice, I'm going to go upstairs and work on this report. Goodnight."
"Hey, Hermione!" Ron called as she started going up the stairs.
"Yeah?" Hermione asked.
"When we were leaving, George got a call that Angelina thinks she is in labor," Ron told her.
"Awesome, Uncle Ron, let me know when you hear anything," Hermione told him as she went up to her bedroom.
*~*~* March 1, 2008 *~*~*
"Angelina wasn't in labor as we know," Hermione stated.
"But you were trying to distance yourself and Harry," Luna stated.
Hermione nodded, "If he was actually going to marry her, I had to." Hermione shrugged, "But unless it was the evenings, we rarely crossed paths other than lunch on Tuesdays and Thursdays if he wasn't in the field. Dudley contacted him, and they started going out for drinks to catch up. I was visiting field sites for the Centaur bill and going to the school to get it ready for the next class. We were very busy.
*~*~* July 10, 2004 *~*~*
Hermione put her hand up to cover her face, and the sun shone brightly in her eyes. Harry pulled up into the parking lot of the Lily Potter School. Hermione had to interview the newest candidate for a new teacher as they had to add another classroom to each grade with all the additional students starting in the fall.
While Hermione was interviewing the candidate, Teddy had been begging to swim in Potter Pond, so while Hermione got out and grabbed her briefcase, Teddy was already pulling Harry towards the lake.
"See you later!" Hermione yelled.
After successfully interviewing the young witch, who had been in her 7th year the same year as Percy, Hermione pulled her hair up. She changed in her office, removing all but her swimsuit. Walking down the back path toward the lake, Hermione couldn't help but admire from afar.
The last seven months had been great for Harry. His training in America improved his abilities as an Auror and transformed his body. Gone was the knobby-kneed, skinny, under-fed young adult that Hermione had grown up with. Suddenly, a stronger, more confident, muscular man was in her life. It made her both happy and sad that Harry was changing. He was growing up, excelling, and soon would be a husband. All the while she felt like she was in a constant state of limbo.
Harry threw Teddy into the water as she reached the lake, and he giggled. "Be careful, please!" Hermione yelled.
Harry waded over to her with Teddy on his shoulders, "How'd the interview go?"
"I have to interview two others this week to be impartial, but I liked her. She was in Percy's class," Hermione said as she sat on the lake's edge so her feet were in the water.
Up close, Hermione could see that Harry was beginning to get true definition to his abdominal muscles. Her eyes also couldn't help but follow the trail of hair that went down inside his swim trunks.
"Momma want to see me swim?" Teddy asked.
"Sure," Hermione said as she stood and stepped knee-deep in the water. She watched Harry gently guide Teddy across the water, showing him how to float and paddle.
"Just keep kicking your legs!" Hermione told him as he doggy paddled over to her, and she caught him in her arms.
After a while, they sat down on the grassy shore to dry off. While Harry ran his towel over his body, she couldn't help but steal glances.
Harry's eyes met hers, "Ready to head out?"
"I need to go to my office quickly," Hermione told him as he gathered their clothes.
As they returned to the main building and walked to Hermione's office, Teddy, who had never been in this room, couldn't help but widen his eyes at the number of books in the room, "There is so many books."
Harry laughed, "If you only knew Teddy, how many books your Momma has."
"Hello, son."
Teddy gasped, "He looks like you, Daddy!"
Harry picked up Teddy and carried him to the portraits, "Teddy, I'd like you to meet my Grandparents, Fleamont and Euphemia."
Hermione came up beside them, "Fleamont, Euphemia. This is Teddy Lupin, our godson."
"Welcome, young man. It's wonderful to meet you," Fleamont stated.
"Hi," Teddy said shyly.
Euphemia smiled down, "This is Remus' son?"
"Edward Remus Lupin," Harry said proudly as the sunset made Hermione's office glow in the golden hues of the sun.
Euphemia told them stories of Remus and James growing up and getting into trouble. Teddy was asleep when it was dark outside, so Harry carried him back to the car. Fastening him in his car seat, Harry and Hermione drove back home in relative silence with the radio on low.
"Today was a perfect day, wasn't it?" Hermione asked.
"Pretty close," Harry told her.
*~*~* July 31, 2004 *~*~*
"Ouch! Harry, that was my foot!" Hermione scolded.
"I'm sorry, it's just between Neville and me. We aren't as little as we used to be," Harry informed her. "That apparition zone was much too small for three."
"Sorry, I just don't want to be late for our reservations," Hermione stated.
Harry looked at her, "You made a reservation at the Leaky? I don't think it will be busy, Hermione."
"I just wanted to make sure we had the private room," Hermione informed them as she led the way and saw Hannah outside the door sweeping.
When Hannah saw them, she went inside to alert the others.
Neville opened the door, "Ladies first."
"No, you both go," Hermione said as they walked through the door.
"Surprise!" Was yelled as the room erupted into cheers and applause.
Harry turned to Hermione, "You did all this?"
Hermione smiled, "I had a bit of help from Ron," She admitted as Hannah pulled her way to look at the cake.
The party was in full swing as people enjoyed their food and beverages. Hermione sipped on a lemonade as Alicia came over to her, "Guess what?"
"What?" Hermione asked.
"Lee asked me out," Alicia told her.
"Really? Are you excited?" Hermione asked.
"I've had a bit of a crush on him since school," Alicia admitted as Hermione saw someone walk into the building.
"Who's that?" Alicia asked.
Hermione frowned, "That is Dudley, Harry's cousin."
After another hour, someone came up next to her as she sat at the bar.
"Hello, Hermione," Dudley said, "How are you?"
"I'm good. How are you doing?" Hermione asked him.
"Not bad. So we haven't really talked much. What do you do?" Dudley asked.
Suddenly, Hermione found Harry coming up next to them.
"How are you enjoying yourself?" Harry asked, sitting next to Hermione.
"It was different, but a good different," Dudley informed him.
"Well, thank you for coming out tonight," Harry said as someone called him over.
Hermione motioned Ron over, "Hey Ron, this is Dudley."
Ron frowned, "As in fat Dudley?"
"As in, he isn't deaf, yes, that Dudley. He's a good guy. Talk to him and get to know him," Hermione told him as she walked over to Ginny and Luna.
*~*~* March 1, 2008 *~*~*
"Harry has told me that sometime after that, Dudley came to him and asked if it was okay if he were to ask me out," Hermione told her.
"Was it weird dating Harry's cousin?" Luna asked.
"No, they grew up together, so they were similar in some ways. He wanted to know about wizarding life, so our dates consisted of me taking him to Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. I brought him to the Ministry, too. He was a great kisser, but our relationship was more he wanted to know more about Harry's life without being too forward."
*~*~* August 8, 2004 *~*~*
Hermione stood at the door waving to Dudley as he pulled out of their driveway. Picking up Hope up that was at her feet, Hermione carried her into the sitting room where Harry was watching the tele, "What has you so moody?"
Harry sighed as he muted the tele, "I'll get my partner assigned to me tomorrow."
Hermione curled up in the recliner, "Which you knew would happen when your Hit Wizard training ended."
"I know," Harry sighed as he ran his hand through his hair, "I'm just afraid they are going to put me with someone to train more than to be a partner."
Hermione scratched under Hope's chin as she curled up on Hermione's lap, "It could happen. I mean, Harry, you now have more training than most of the people there. CIA, FBI, MACUSA, Hit Wizard, I mean even your MI5 and the bit of MI6 training you had before officially being in the program. Let's be honest. No one will ever be at your experience level. You have one thing wrong, though."
Harry sighed, "What?"
"You are behind in practical. You are the best in theory and training, but these other Aurors have been training on the ground. With your training, you skipped that," Hermione rationalized.
Harry sat back, "I never thought of it that way."
"No partnership is perfect from the get-go," Hermione stated, "You have to give it time to flourish."
Harry looked at her, "Where did you take Dudley today?"
"I took him to the Creature Sanctuary that Newt is starting," Hermione told him, "He was amazed by the Hippogriffs. I told him about how we had ridden one to save Sirius. I'm not sure if he believed me."
Harry laughed, then looked at her, "So you really like Dudley?"
Hermione bit her lip, "I do. Can I see it going further in the future? We will see. I feel I am more of his introduction to the magical world. Someone who he can connect to you through without asking you about your world."
Harry frowned, "He can just ask me."
Hermione shrugged, "Think of all those years of bad blood between you. You two are finally mending things, but bad air is still hanging between you. Yes, you did nothing to Dudley, but Dudley knows he caused you a lot of harm through the years." Hermione held her hand up as he went to speak, "And he has apologized for it, but have you forgiven him?"
Harry was silent as Hermione cradled Hope, "Just think about it."
*~*~* August 9, 2004 *~*~*
Crookshanks was lying on the floor as Hope played around him, batting her toys towards the older Kneazle. Hermione sat reading a book and occasionally wandlessly made the ball float through the air.
Hope yelped as the floo lit up green, and Harry walked through.
"Calm down, Hopey, it's just Harry," Hermione stated as Hope tromped around the sitting room and ran to Harry's robes.
Harry grabbed her as Hope sunk her claws into Harry's robes and climbed up them. Pulling her off him, Harry took his robes off, throwing them onto the back of the couch. Sitting hard on the couch, Hermione raised an eyebrow, "Everything okay?"
"So I got a partner," Harry said, "Draco fucking Malfoy."
Hermione snorted, then covered her laugh with a cough.
"Laugh it up," Harry pouted.
"From what I understand, and if you remember, we both testified that he was forced into his death eater activities. We've since learned that the only reason that he became a Death Eater was because they threatened Narissa. We were also forced to do so, but he was my Runes and Arithmancy partner. He wasn't that bad, ignoring his parentage and how mentally fucked up he was."
Harry stood up, "This is why you don't have an arch-nemesis, Hermione. You focus on the wrong details."
Hermione frowned, "Maybe I don't have an arch-nemesis because I care about my future, not the past or what some blond egomaniac is up to. Does the sixth year ring a bell?"
Harry scowled, "That's a pretty fucked up thing to say to me. He was up to no good our sixth year, and you know it."
"Again, his mother was being threatened. When your parents' lives are threatened, you tend to do things that might be against the law," Hermione stood up, making Hope run from her lap.
"Well, I wouldn't know, would I?" Harry bit back.
Hermione shook her head, "When you are like this, I have to walk away. When you calm down, come find me."
*~*~* March 1, 2008 *~*~*
"You fought about Draco?" Luna asked, surprised.
"Old habits die hard. We fought about him in the sixth year, too," Hermione stated, "Of course, at that time, Harry was correct, and I was wrong. Harry was just jumping to conclusions because of his past."
*~*~* August 14, 2004 *~*~*
The pulsating music beats and chatter of excited festival-goers filled Hermione's head, causing a slight headache as she and the girls walked through the park holding the music festival. Hermione moved her sunglasses down from her head to her face, hoping that blocking the intense sun rays would help alleviate some of her headaches. Still, the smells around her, from foods to drugs being smoked despite them being illegal, did not help.
"Isn't this amazing!" Ginny shouted over the music blaring from the speaker that they passed.
"It really is!" Luna yelled, dancing in her unique way to the music.
Hermione winched as the music surged, amplifying the pain in her head.
Finding a spot of grass where they could lay their picnic basket out, Hermione and Luna spread their shared blanket out as the other girls spread their own. In an attempt to listen to the music and enjoy more modern music than she would listen to, she also tried to tune Ginny out as she talked about the wedding prep that Hermione had been trying to ignore.
Daphne sat down next to Hermione, "You alright?"
"Headache," Hermione told her.
"Let's go get a drink," Daphne suggested.
"Alright, just one drink. I've been good," Hermione told her as they got up.
Grabbing a cocktail from one of the festival stands, Hermione took a sip, the cool liquid offering a brief respite to her headache. Hermione stuck it out for another hour before the alcohol wore off, and the music seemed to increase in volume, as well as the weed smell in the air that was making her nauseous.
Finally, she leaned over to Luna and Ginny, "I think I need to call it a night. This headache is getting worse."
Ginny nodded, "Let's all head back to my apartment. It's the closest. We can walk from here, and I have a headache potion I can give you there."
Luna, Susan, Lavender, Daphne, and Alicia agreed to join them. She said goodbye to the other girls before following Ginny away from the street festival. The farther they walked, the quieter the area became. Thirty minutes later, they made it to Ginny's apartment building. The top half was the offices of the Holyhead Harpies, and the bottom half held the apartments for the Harpies and others.
"Hey, Zola!" Ginny yelled as she saw one of her teammates leaving the building as they walked closer. Her teammate stopped and walked over to them, "I'd like you to meet Luna Lovegood, Susan Bones, Lavender Goldstein, Daphne Greengrass, Alicia Spinnet, and Hermione Granger. Guys, this is our rookie this year, Zola Farrell."
The tall, blond, pale woman approached them, "Wait, as in the Golden Girl? That Hermione Granger?"
Hermione held her hand out, "Nice to meet you."
Zola, wide-eyed, took Hermione's hand, "In Witch Weekly and in The Prophet, you seem like this huge presence even next to Harry Potter or Ron Weasley, but you are just a little thing."
"Um… thanks?" Hermione stated as she pulled her hand back.
"Could you maybe, I mean, would you like to go out for drinks sometime?" Zola asked.
Ginny scoffed, "Barking up the wrong tree, Zola, Hermione is straighter than an arrow."
"Damn," Zola stated as she stared at Hermione.
"I'm flattered, but she is right," Hermione stated as she looked at Ginny, "The Headache potion?"
"See you later, Zola," Ginny said as she led them into the building.
Stepping into Ginny's apartment, Hermione looks at the appearance. Arnold was curled up on the couch, and pictures of the Weasley family were on the walls. Otherwise, the only pictures of Harry that Hermione saw were of him and the Weasleys together.
"Welcome to my home," Ginny said as she entered the kitchen, "I do have some desserts and some wine."
Their group settled in after Hermione took her headache potion. Hermione settled on a cup of tea while the girls opened a bottle of wine. Conversation flowed easily as they gossiped and shared memories of Hogwarts. Eventually, all but Luna, Hermione, and Daphne left through the floo. Daphne stood up, "I think I am going to leave. Hermione, you coming?"
Ginny looked at Hermione, "Actually, I know it's getting late, but would you and Luna stay and help me stuff some invitations for the wedding? I've been putting it off, and it's less than six months away. I want to get them out."
Hermione felt a pang in her chest but forced a smile, "Of course." Swallowing, she looked at Daphne. "I'll see you at work on Monday."
Ginny jumped up excitedly, "Thank you, thank you."
Daphne waved as she stepped into the floo, and Hermione sighed deeply.
"You alright?" Luna asked.
Hermione shrugged, "I could use the wine right now."
Ginny came in with a large smile as she sat down a stack of beautifully designed invitations, "I have the labels done; they just need to be attached to the envelope, and the invitation slipped inside."
Luna took the labels and the envelopes, and Ginny placed the invitations in front of Hermione.
"I figured if we work together, we can finish it quickly. There are less than 100. I figure only 50 or so will respond," Ginny said as Hermione picked up one of the invitations.
A gold script read, 'You are cordially invited to the wedding of Ginevra Molly Weasley to marry Harry James Potter on 13th of February, 2005 at 1pm. Location: the Burrow, Ottery St. Catchpole in Devon. RSVP for Portkey by the 31st. of December.'
Hermione's stomach sank as she read the words. Forcing a smile, she took Luna's envelope and put the invitation inside. Handing it off to Ginny, she saw a flash of the diamond engagement ring that Harry had given to her, which Hermione had tried her best to ignore. Stuff, fold flap, hand off. The repetition of the task allowed her mind to wander.
"It's going to be a beautiful wedding," Luna stated.
"Thank you," Ginny beamed, sealing the envelope Hermione had just handed her and putting it into an appropriate pile. "It means a lot to me and us that you are helping with this. You've both always been there for us."
Hermione nodded as she pushed through. Stuff, fold flap, then hand off. Finally, the last invitation was finished, and Ginny leaned back against the floor, "That's it. Thanks so much for your help."
"Glad I could help," Hermione stated as she stood up, "I should head home."
Ginny's face fell, "Oh, I wanted to show you my dress. I had my fitting, and it is in. You haven't seen it yet with work."
Hermione swallowed hard to prevent the bile from coming from her throat, "Real quick."
*~*~* March 1, 2008 *~*~*
"Why did you torture yourself, Hermione?" Luna asked, "I wondered every day that you sat through invitations, the dress, other tasks for the wedding… why you did it. Why didn't you say no? Why didn't you speak up?"
"I wanted to, but I thought of what made Harry happy. What I thought he wanted. I thought he wanted Ginny and children. I wasn't Ginny, and I possibly couldn't have children. According to Andromeda, I could move on. I could find someone else. Harry did with Ginny. Why couldn't I? But," Hermione sighed, "I was picky. I'll admit. No one could hold to my standards."
"What were you looking for?" Luna wondered.
"I wanted someone who could challenge me mentally. Someone that, after Ron, I didn't argue with. I wanted someone who would turn me on, mentally and physically. Someone who would make time for me and get along with my friends. Educated, good job… funny," Hermione said, "Until Harry, only one man came close." Hermione sighed, "But I'm not there yet. In September…"
*~*~* September 11, 2004 *~*~*
Hermione stood in front of her bedroom mirror, heart racing as she wore one of Pansy's latest designs. Theo had invited her, and looking at the invitation, she contemplated backing out. While this event was an opportunity for her to network with members of the Wizengamot and gather support for her Goblin Rights bill, the venue made her more uneasy than the outfit.
Malfoy Manor. The last time she had been, there was still held in her nightmares nearly every night as she was tortured by Bellatrix. Steeling herself, she ran her hand over her arm where MUDBLOOD used to be carved into her skin. The skin was scarred, but thankfully, the words were no longer visible to anyone but her.
A knock on her door pulled her from her thoughts, "Come in!" She called.
Theo stepped in, and his eyes widened at her outfit. Hermione had gone with what Pansy called bold. A sleek and tailored pants suit that bared her midriff. Pansy said wearing black trousers and a white midriff top would shout confidence to the dusty old wizards in the room and that she was someone to take seriously. Hermione thought the top was nothing more than a fancy tube top that showed off her collarbone as it flared on her shoulders, covering the upper portion of his arms. Pansy designed it, breaking every traditional fashion rule for wizarding fashion.
"Wow," Theo stated, "The Wizards are going to be blown away, and the witches will be jealous as fuck. Not only are you not wearing robes, you are baring your stomach and wearing pants. Pansy doesn't know what will hit her. Witches will go crazy for this design."
Hermione smiled, looking at herself in the mirror, "Thanks, Theo. I just hope this impression goes the right way. I need sponsors for the bill, not people to hate me."
"Who could hate you looking like that?" Theo asked, holding his arm out, "Ready to go?"
Hermione nodded as she slipped her wedged heels on. Carefully walking down the stairs, Harry walked down the hallway with a sandwich, took one look at Hermione, and promptly choked.
Theo smacked him on the back, "Okay, there Potter?"
Hermione turned to Harry as he cleared his throat, "By the way, do you still have my necklace?" She asked, rubbing her chest where it usually sat.
Harry shook his head, "It's still being cleaned. Sorry, Hermione."
She nodded, feeling a pang of discomfort. The locket that Harry had given her had always made her feel secure, "Alright. Let's go."
The familiar whirl of green flames transported them to Malfoy Manor, where a house elf stood on the other end wearing a small suit with the Malfoy crest.
"Welcome to Malfoy Manor," He stated and snapped his fingers for the soot on their clothes to disappear.
Stepping out of the parlour and into the grand entrance hall, Hermione was surprised at how different it looked. The once dark and foreboding space was now bright and welcoming.
"It's so different," Hermione whispered, surprised, just loud enough for Theo to hear her.
"When were you here?" Theo commented, "But you are right. Narcissa has practically gutted the entire manor. She even remodeled rooms. It's nothing like the place Blaise, Draco, and I used to run through as kids. Seriously, when were you here?"
Hermione breathed, "Snatchers caught Harry, Ron, and me and brought us here so that they could collect. They didn't know it was us."
"Shite, Hermione, you should have told me. I can't believe they let you guys go," Theo stated.
"No, we escaped by House Elf," Hermione said as they followed the other guests to the ballroom, where the soiree was already in full swing.
Wandering around, they bid on various items, and Hermione smiled at seeing some of the artwork she had donated by the students at the school. There were multiple bids on the items already, and Hermione felt a sense of pride for the students at the school.
"Dance with me?" Theo asked.
Hermione nodded and took his hand, following him to the dance floor. Heads turned in their direction. Hermione wondered if it was because a former death eater's son was dancing with a mudblood or for her outfit. As they danced around, Theo introduced Hermione to various members of the Wizengamot. He switched partners with them so Hermione could take a moment with them to speak about her bill.
Theo returned to her and smiled, "Your smile is so big. Things going well?"
"Very, thank you," Hermione said as they agreed to take a moment to get a drink at the punch table.
As they sipped their drinks, a voice came up behind them.
"Theo? Coming out of the darkness to party with us for once?"
Theo grinned, "Draco!"
Hermione took in the tall blonde next to her, that had changed drastically since she had seen him last. The Auror training had turned him from a skinny, tall boy into a broad-shouldered man.
Draco glanced over at her, "Enjoying the evening? Mother worked hard on tonight."
"We are, thank you," Hermione replied.
Draco nodded, "I've heard people talking about the law you are working on. About goblin rights? It's on the docket for the next session, right?" He asked, taking a sip of his glass.
Hermione smiled her professional smile, "Yes, it is. It's something I've been working on for a while now. Goblins deserve better representation and rights within our society. Did you know they are restricted in their ability to own property in our world? They manage our banking institutions and have power over our financials but barely have self-governance in their world. Goblins have an underground culture where they live and work. With my bill, they can move to the surface."
Draco nodded, "That's a bold move. I hope it gains the support you need. I didn't realize that was in Wizarding Law. Send me a copy of the bill through Harry, and I'll review it. I have a seat in the Wizengamot and usually vote through Mother by proxy. I might hold interest in this bill."
"Thank you, Draco," Hermione said his name feeling foreign on her tongue, "That means a lot."
*~*~* March 1, 2008 *~*~*
"And as you know, the Goblin Reparation bill was my first bill to pass and passed by only one vote."
Luna looked at her, "Draco."
Hermione nodded, "Malfoy."
*~*~* September 18, 2004 *~*~*
"Happy Birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday, dear Hermione, happy birthday to you!"
Hermione looked at Harry over her birthday cake, closed her eyes, and made a wish, 'Please don't let him marry her.' Blowing out all 25 candles, Hermione smiled at everyone, "Thank you!"
Hannah took the cake to cut it as people came over to hug her.
"Gifts, gifts!" Luna yelled, taking Hermione's hand to lead her to the bar.
After receiving cards with galleons, a Herbology kit from Neville, and a bath set with magical bath salts, soaps, and lotions from Pansy and Daphne, Theo got her a Spa Day voucher. Luna had made her some interesting creature-themed jewelry. She had gifted her a copy of Rolf's first copy of the illustrated Magical Creatures Encyclopedia. Ron had given her a wizarding chess set that she knew she would gift to Teddy. The Weasleys had purchased her a new wand holster monogrammed with her name. Ginny and some of the girls had given her various books as well. Hermione masked her disappointment as she smiled, thanking everyone. Drinks started pouring at the bar, and everyone spread out in the Leaky Cauldron.
Harry approached her while everyone enjoyed their cake and looked around, "Where is Dudley? I figured you'd invite him."
Hermione looked at him, "I told him yesterday that while he was an amazing guy who had grown so much since you were kids, I didn't see us going any further. He was glad to be his friend and would gladly be his guide in the magical world, but romantically, there was nothing there for the long term." Hermione grinned, "But I did promise to go with him to Christmas dinner with your Aunt and Uncle. Just to mess with their heads."
Harry laughed as he put his arm around her, "Glad you are there to positively influence him." Harry pulled a box out of his pocket, "Here, I nearly forgot to give it to you. It's your birthday present because I got it cleaned and took it to this goblin jewelry store, and they put a protection spell on it. If you are in trouble, put your finger on the sapphire on the locket, and it will alert me. Holding it down briefly just notifies me quickly, so I know it's not a serious emergency. If it is serious, hold down on the sapphire."
Hermione gently pulled the necklace out of the box and opened the locket. Besides the picture of baby Harry, there was now a picture of the two of them with Teddy and Harmony.
"There was an empty space on the other side. I thought the picture was fitting. I was going to have them remove the picture of me-"
Hermione looked up, "I'm glad that you didn't." Hermione turned around and held up her hair, "Put it on me, please."
Harry took the necklace from her hand and fastened it around her neck. Touching the locket, Hermione smiled as the comforting feeling swept over her, "Thank you, Harry."
Harry went to say something, then swore as he pulled his wand out, "Shite of all times. I have to run. I'm being summoned, so something must be happening." Harry looked out, "Ron! Make sure everyone gets home safely. Something is going on! I have to leave."
Ron nodded as he walked over towards them.
Harry leaned down and kissed her cheek, "Happy birthday if I don't see you before midnight."
*~*~* March 1, 2008 *~*~*
"That is when they had the escaped death eater, isn't it?" Luna asked.
Hermione nodded, "Harry was gone for almost a week while they hunted down leads before they found and captured him. Thankfully, it was only a lower-tiered death eater, so he wasn't very smart and ended up returning home after a week. It was Harry's first major case."
*~*~* October 9, 2004 *~*~*
Hermione tossed back her Firewhiskey, "Fucking idiots… the lot of them," Hermione stated as she motioned to Hannah for another.
Hannah walked over to her and poured her another three fingers, then poured lemonade on top, "Everything alright? I thought that you had given up drinking?"
Hermione pushed the invitation she had received across the bar, "I think I deserve this. Turns out my father is getting remarried. He didn't tell me over the phone or in person. Instead, I received an invitation in the mail from the woman he was going to marry. Maria."
Hannah frowned, "I'm sorry, Hermione."
Hermione sighed, "I'm used to it." She said as she took a heavy drink of her Firewhiskey and lemonade, "Cuts some of the bite. Thanks."
Sighing, Hermione poured some salt onto the bar and started drawing on it.
"Hermione, sweetheart. Are you okay?" Luna's sweet voice asked as she sat down next to her.
Hermione looked over at her, "Hannah contacted you?"
"She said you received bad news, and you were on your third Firewhiskey already," Luna stated.
"Two and a half. Haven't finished this one," Hermione stated, holding up her glass, "My Dad is getting married. He didn't tell me. I just got this invitation in the mail."
Luna took it, "I'm sorry. Next Spring, too."
"Do you know what my worst fear is? My worst fear is not being loved," Hermione confessed as she snorted into her glass and took a drink. "I don't know how a boggart would show that."
"What do you mean?" Luna asked.
"I don't know. I just have always felt that I'd rather protect my heart. If I leave them alone and distance myself, I'm not the one left behind. They are. It protects my heart. I'd rather be the one that leaves and makes that choice," Hermione stated as she held up her invitation, "With this, he is leaving ME behind." Throwing it to the bar, Hermione finished her drink, "I feel disposable. Second best, second when needed, or never needed at all."
Luna's face dropped, "That's not true."
Hermione's bottom lip quivered, "In school, Ron and Harry had each other… I was just there to help them with homework and solve things. Always second behind Ron or Harry to them. Until you, I never had a girlfriend. Ginny and I were friends because of the boys, not because of us. I went to go to the fitting for the bridesmaid dresses. Notice I wasn't there?"
Luna stared at her, "She said you had to work and decided you didn't have time for the wedding prep, so I'm her matron of honor, and one of the Harpies is going to be her second bridesmaid."
Hermione scoffed, motioning to Hannah again, "She TOLD me that I didn't have the time."
Luna waved her off, then turned to Hermione, "Wait, she kicked you out of the wedding party?"
Hermione nodded, "Not that I wanted to be there in the first place, but it was going to make Harry happy."
"Does Harry know?" Luna asked.
Hermione shrugged, "Hell, if I know." Hermione looked up, "Hannah! Why the hell is she ignoring me?"
"Because I told her no. Let's get you home. It's nearly midnight," Luna stated as she grabbed Hermione's cloak.
"No," Hermione said, squinting at her phone, "What the hell happened to this evening?!"
Luna frowned, asking Hannah, "How many did she have?"
"I've given her three, but some wizards gave her some earlier, too," Hannah said, giving Luna a sobering potion, "It won't make her sober. It will make her clearer, at least."
"I want to be numb," Hermione mumbled, nearly tripping on her own feet, "Why does adulting suck?"
Hannah looked at Luna, "Do you need me to call Ron or Harry?"
"No, I have her. Thanks, Hannah," Luna stated as she put Hermione's arm over her shoulder, which helped her walk to the fireplace and into the floo.
As soon as they ended up at the house, Hermione's knees hit the floor, and she threw up all over the rug she loved so much, making Hope run. Hermione groaned, "Not my rug."
Taking her wand out, Luna vanished her sick. Kneeling beside her, Luna held out the sobering potion, "Drink this. It will help."
Ron came down the stairs and saw them on the floor, "What happened?" he asked, falling to the floor next to them.
"Hannah contacted me saying that Hermione was drunk at the Leaky, so I went, and she was already drunk," Luna told him.
Hermione lay on the floor, "I'm right here, by the way. I can hear you."
Ron looked at Luna, "What the hell happened? She hasn't drank since March!"
"I had so," Hermione stated as the sobering potion started to work, and she groaned, "I'm losing my numbness."
Luna looked at her, then at Ron, "Her Dad was remarrying and sent her an invitation instead of telling her."
"Shite," Ron said, looking at Hermione, "Are you okay?"
"Do I look it?" Hermione asked him, sitting up slowly, "I'm heading to bed. I'm sober enough now I can walk. You don't need to worry. We are a dry house now, so I won't find anything."
Ron helped her up, "Are you sure you don't need help upstairs?"
Hermione stood up, "I'm good now." Hermione patted his shoulder, "Thanks, Ron, for being a good friend, you too, Luna."
Holding onto the handrail as she walked up the stairs, she heard Ron say, "I'm worried about her, Luna. None of us mentally survived the war unscathed, but I think Hermione is hurting more than she tells us. Years of pushing everything down are finally catching up to her."
Hermione scoffed as she made it to the first floor. Glancing at Harry's door, she found herself walking to his bedroom door and pushing it open.
Seeing his shape underneath the covers, Hermione went to his bed and knelt beside him, "Harry?" She whispered.
When he didn't move, Hermione sat back on her bottom, pulling her knees to her chest, "You give me this… stupid bit of warmth in this stupid cold world." A tear rolled down her face, "I am losing my mind trying to get over you. I don't expect you to drop her for me, but I feel like I am going insane hiding myself. I know I'm not lying, but it feels like I am always lying. You are so important to me, and I don't want to take away your choices from you. Even if it ruins me. You deserve honesty, so here it is. Don't marry her. Don't marry Ginny. No matter what you do, I can't keep living like this, Harry."
*~*~* March 1, 2008 *~*~*
Hermione looked at Luna, "Is that how that night went down at the bar?"
Luna nodded, "Despite how drunk you were that night, your memory is still impeccable."
"Wait, that was real?"
Hermione looked up at Harry, "You were awake?"
"I thought it was part of my dream," Harry told her as he walked into the room, "Damnit, Hermione, why didn't you tell me back then? I would have left Ginny in a heartbeat."
"I didn't want to make that choice for you, Harry. I wanted you to be the one to make it, and when the time came, you were the one to make the choice. That's all that mattered to me," Hermione told him as she took his hand. He sat down next to her, and she placed it on her belly, "Plus if we made the choices back then, we wouldn't have this baby."
Harry sighed, "Damnit, you are right." Leaning over, he kissed her belly, then kissed her, "Go ahead and continue."
Hermione looked at Luna, "Nothing really happened in November."
Harry looked at her, "Actually, a significant thing happened to me."
Hermione looked at him. "What happened that was significant?" She asked, flipping through her journal.
Harry looked at Luna, "There was an incident on the field, and I froze. Part of the protocol was that I had to go to the Mind Healer."
*~*~* November 22, 2004 *~*~*
"Harry, you have a lot going on right now," Mind Healer Edwards began as he leaned back in his chair, "A new partner, getting married in three months. It's a lot to take in. Freezing in the field is more normal than you think."
Harry shrugged, "I'm fine. There's no stress. Things are better with Draco as a partner than I thought. We are getting along well, actually. I even invited him over to the house for the first time this weekend for mine and Hermione's version of American Thanksgiving that we do every year."
Healer Edwards looked at him, "That's good to hear. It sounds like you've made great progress in your professional relationship. But what about your personal life? Since you are marrying in less than three months, what are your plans for after the wedding?"
Harry frowned, "What do you mean? We can't go on a honeymoon until the bye week in March, but I already asked for that time off."
"I mean, you live with Ron and Hermione right now. After the wedding, will you be moving out to live with Ginny, or will Ron and Hermione move out when Ginny moves in?" Healer Edwards asked.
Harry frowned. He hadn't even considered it, and he and Ginny hadn't discussed it.
Healer Edwards looked at him, "Harry," He said gently, reminding Harry of when he spoke to traumatized victims, "What do you think of when you think of home? Where is home?"
"Hermione," Came out of Harry's mouth before he thought about it, "And Ron, home has always been where Ron and Hermione are. I guess I thought Ginny would just move in when we got married."
Healer Edwards nodded, "A person is home?"
Harry swallowed, "My home was Hermione's side growing up. I never really thought of the Dursleys as home growing up. It wasn't home. It was where I had to live when I went to Hogwarts. I didn't have a home. Hogwarts wasn't my home. It was Hermione and Ron, of course. They became my family. That's why I had to have them move in when I got the house."
"You don't say Ron first, I noticed," Healer Edwards commented.
Harry frowned, "Because I don't," Harry paused to gather his words, "I guess, if I think about it, Hermione is home. In New York, she made it home. Hogwarts, she made it home. On the run, she made it home. I don't know how to describe it. She… I'm not…" Harry trailed off, trying to form the words, "She's the person I'm comfortable with. I can talk about anything with her. We don't have to say anything or do anything. We can sit in complete silence. Just being there with her, I'm safe. She's my safe place." Harry looked at the ceiling, "Hermione is the first person to ever give me a hug. To make me feel safe."
Healer Edwards nodded, "That's understandable, given everything you've been through. You've found safety and stability with them," He leaned forward, "But Harry, you are starting a new chapter in your life with Ginny. It's important to figure out what works for you both."
Harry swallowed hard. The thought of leaving Hermione and Ron was like tearing a part of himself off his body, "I guess I need to talk to Ginny about it. We need to figure out what home means for us."
Healer Edwards smiled, "That sounds like a good place to start. Remember, Harry, these questions are normal. It's okay to not have the answers. You just have to work through them and communicate. That is the area that Robards says you need to work on the most, communication."
Harry ran his hand through his hair, "I'm working on it. It's just that Hermione and Ron were my partners for years, and I didn't have to say much. They just knew."
*~*~* March 1, 2008 *~*~*
Hermione looked at him, "Seriously?! Harry, come on!"
Harry looked at her, confused, "What? I started realizing I needed you. I needed you like I needed air to breathe. Being in America without you that year was torture. I thought it was because I wasn't home, but you were and still are my home, Hermione."
Hermione turned to Luna, "We were both idiots."
Luna laughed, "I could have told you that."
*~*~* November 27, 2004 *~*~*
Laughter and chatter echoed through their house as their friends gathered in their small home. Everyone could attend for the first time, and their house was bursting at the seams, and Teddy loved it.
"How's the turkey?" Hermione asked Harry as she mashed the potatoes.
Harry opened the oven, "The red thing hasn't popped yet." Harry said as he shut the oven door, "Timer says 30 more minutes."
"I'll put a warming charm on these then," Hermione said as she added butter to the mashed potatoes, and Harry sighed, "What?"
"Add more," Harry told her as he left the kitchen.
Hermione rolled her eyes, "Add more," She mumbled as she scooped, cut more off the stick, and added it. Adding the warming charm, Hermione walked out to the dining room, looking at all the food already laid out that everyone had brought. Finding an empty spot on the table, she set the bowl down and entered the sitting room.
An American football game was playing on the television. As their wizarding friends marveled at the sport, the girls talked. Theo, Blaise, Pansy, and Daphne easily fit in with the members of Dumbledore's Army scattered around in various chairs.
Suddenly, the floo lit up, casting a green glow in the room. Every head turned in surprise as Draco walked through. Eyes widened in shock at his presence.
Harry stood up from his spot, leaning on the back of the couch behind Ginny, and walked towards Draco, "I invited Draco," Harry announced, "He's my Auror partner, and we've moved past our differences."
Theo sprung to his feet, "Draco!" crossing the room and hugging him, "I'm glad you are here. Now, you won't have to be a loner anymore."
Draco chuckled, "Thanks, Theo." He handed Harry a dish, "It's just a simple trifle."
Harry walked over to Hermione, "A simple trifle?"
Hermione shook her head with a smile as she took it into the kitchen.
After eating and putting away more food than Hermione had in awhile, the group relaxed around the sitting room as the football game neared the end. Getting up, Hermione walked into the kitchen to get her brownies and bring them in with the rest of the desserts. Emerging from the kitchen, she found Draco browsing their CD collection.
"Those are CDs, basically-"
Draco looked at her, "Music. I know more about muggle culture than you think now. I enjoy music," Draco said as he selected a CD of the Beatles White album, "I enjoy their music. I just haven't heard this one, I don't think." He looked at her, "I'm more of a Frank Sinatra fan."
Hermione's fan lit up with a sad smile, "That was my father's favorite artist. He's one of mine, too." Hermione held out the plate of brownies, "Brownie?"
"Thank you," Draco said as he took one and took a bite.
Draco chewed a moment before his expression changed, and then he swallowed hard. Hermione groaned, "It's bad, isn't it? Harry always says I'm good at potions but terrible at cooking. He said even I couldn't mess this up."
Draco laughed, "You forgot the oil and baked them too long."
Hermione chuckled as she walked back into the kitchen and threw them into the trash, "I'm hopeless when it comes to cooking anything. Baking, at least, I'm okay at."
Draco pulled an Elvis CD from the rack and held it up, "Mind if I borrow this?"
Hermione nodded, "Go for it. Just send it with Harry when you are done."
"Thanks," Draco said as he slid it into the pocket of his robes.
*~*~* March 1, 2008 *~*~*
Harry slapped his legs, "And with that, I'm going to go. Teddy should be wanting lunch soon."
Hermione snorted as Harry shut the door behind him, "I figured he was going to go running."
Luna smiled, "Does it make him uncomfortable?"
Hermione shook her head, "He knows everything that happened, but I think hearing it in more detail is different. I didn't obviously tell him everything, and I think he is afraid to hear everything. I could write a whole book on just those eight months."
*********************Draco scene starting if you want to skip the rest of the chapter. They do not get romantic in this story*************************************************
*~*~* December 3, 2004 *~*~*
Hermione was sitting at her desk working on research for the Centaur bill that the committee had voted down yet again when a knock sounded on her door.
"Opal, come in."
"I'm not Opal."
Hermione looked up, surprised to see Draco at her door, "Draco," She said as she took her glasses off, "What are you doing here?"
Draco shifted on his feet, "Are you going to the Ministry Christmas Party by any chance?"
Hermione looked at him, "I wasn't planning on it."
"Oh, never mind then," Draco stated, "Forget I asked."
Hermione stood up, "No, why are you asking?"
Draco looked at her, "I was just wondering if you might want to go together."
Hermione looked at him surprised, "Together?"
"So, what do you say, Granger? Want to come to the Christmas party with me?" Draco asked.
"Sure," Hermione said with a smile.
*~*~* December 10, 2004 *~*~*
The Ministry's atrium had been transformed while everyone was working into a winter wonderland. Twinkling fairy lights and snowflakes gently fell from the ceiling. As Hermione, with Draco at her side, stepped out of the lift, the annual Christmas party was in full swing.
Slowly, as if in a wave, heads started turning in surprise. The two of them arriving as a pair was unexpected. Draco wore a dress shirt and trousers instead of his Auror robes, while Hermione wore a pencil skirt and a blouse. Without even trying, they were matching.
Draco leaned closer to her, his breath warm on her ear, "They are looking because you are beautiful tonight."
Hermione blushed, nudging him with her elbow, "Quit it. These are my everyday clothes."
Together, they walked over to where the tables were set up and found Daphne and Blaise and Pansy and Theo already seated.
Daphne looked up in surprise, seeing them, "Hey guys, we saved both of your seats."
Draco pulled her chair out before taking his own seat beside her.
Dinner was filled with laughter and conversation between their group and others who stopped by their table. Hermione was surprised at how easy it was to talk to Draco. Occasionally, he would lean in to whisper a joke or comment on something. Surprising herself at how much their group and he were making her laugh.
Harry and Ginny stopped over after Kingsley's speech and pulled Hermione aside, "Hermione, are you dating Draco?" He asked, confused, "I've seen him flirting with you all night!"
Hermione shook her head, "Harry, we're just friends. From what I can ascertain, Draco flirts with everyone."
"And you don't care that he is flirting with you?" Harry asked.
"He doesn't mean it, Harry," Hermione assured him, "It's fine. It's harmless."
Harry looked at her suspiciously, "Alright, if you say so. Just looking out for you."
"I appreciate it, but I'm a big girl. I can handle myself, Harry," Hermione told him.
As the party winded down, Draco flooed home with Hermione.
"I just wanted to make sure you got home," Draco told her.
"Thank you for tonight, Draco. I always hate going to Ministry functions. It wasn't so bad with you," Hermione told him.
"The pleasure was all mine, Hermione. I'm glad you came with me," Draco said as he leaned down and his lips brushed her cheek, "If we don't talk before it. Merry Christmas, Hermione."
Hermione watched in disbelief as Draco flooed away. Placing her hand on her cheek, she held it in disbelief. Grabbing floo powder, she threw it into the fireplace, "Minister's Manor!"
Andromeda looked up in surprise as Hermione entered the room, "Hermione, is everything okay?"
Hermione swallowed hard, "I felt sparks with Draco. Is it possible to be compatible with two people?"
Andromeda stood up, surprised, "My nephew Draco?"
"Yes!" Hermione said, holding her cheek, "He kissed my cheek, and I felt sparks. Not as… electric as Harry's, but I felt them."
"Are you sure they weren't static electricity?" Andromeda asked.
"I don't know, but is it possible?" Hermione asked.
"I wouldn't see why not. It might not be the same compatibility as with Harry, but your magic may have felt comfortable with his magic. It's possible," Andromeda told her as Hermione sat down in their armchair, "What are you going to do about it?"
Hermione shook her head, "I don't know."
*~*~* March 1, 2008 *~*~*
"I didn't actively seek out Draco. I was more trying to figure out what it all meant. I went to a few more libraries to try to find information. I even went to Hogwarts to see if I missed anything there," Hermione sighed, "and the rest of the month continued. Lee and Alicia got engaged. We had a friend's Christmas at our house. Harry and Ginny were making the finishing arrangements for the wedding. Nothing out of the norm happened until Draco asked me if I'd go to the Yule Ball of Giving. After that… my whole perspective of the world changed."
For December, Hermione and Draco scenes see Snow on the Beach linked in my bio or s/14376681/1/Snow-on-the-Beach
A/n: For the next four chapters, Draco and Hermione will be happening. Follow the shorts story, Snow on the Beach for their story. In Enchanted, it will be still Hermione's reactions to Harry and Ginny's wedding and how she feels. Snow on the Beach will deal with Draco and Hermione's relationship. You can skip it if you choose to because you can't do Dramione. If you choose to, points will be summarized in Enchanted.
Thank you for the follows: Hakaiko, squidonfire,WillowBabble, inhungry6647, VampirePrincess8288, The1AndOnLyKing
and the reviews:
What-momma-don't-kno: No worries, there is no end in sight!
Hudy Leak613: Here it is, thanks for reading!
Preview of Chapter 30- Speak Now
As if her magic had been building, she felt herself explode, her mug flying in pieces across the room. When his hand touched her, she threw him off. "Because you aren't happy, Harry! You are marrying Ginny in a month and don't look happy. If you aren't happy, why should I stick around somewhere I'll be miserable too?"
Harry's face hardened, "That is ridiculous. Ginny and I-"
"You… are… just… settling," Hermione told him, interrupting him, her voice cracking at her emotions, "You don't love her the way you should, Harry, and it's breaking my heart watching you pretend."
They stood staring at each other, breathing heavily. When Harry finally spoke, his voice was laced with sarcasm so much that he sounded like Ginny instead of himself, "Maybe you're just jealous, Hermione."