Harry had to admit that was the best Easter he had ever had in either life. No Marge's dogs chasing him. He actually got to dye and decorate an egg! Hermione's singing was just 'Wow'. He really hoped things continued on the path they were on, but he wasn't about to let his guard down.
While he wanted to keep Emma on his shit list, Harry also knew it was an opportunity for him and the girls to get a mother back. Luna and Harry lost theirs to death, and Hermione lost her mother to Dumbledore. All because he wanted to keep his spy free and willing to do suicidal things and missions. Deep down though, Harry knew, he was still an orphan who wanted a family.
If it weren't for his Reaper essentially telling them that Hermione's father was a secret, he would have said to hell with both of them. However, he would ask Hermione how much different they were at home and if it was better or worse than before.
There was a knock on his doorframe.
"Hey, pup," Sirius said.
"Hey, Padfoot," Harry replied with a grin, which Sirius returned.
"I wanted to sit down with you now that I have some time.," Sirius explained as he entered the room and sat on a chair across from the bed.
"Sure, what's up?" Harry asked.
"First, I want to state for the record that I am extremely happy for you, pup. I truly am. Luna and Hermione will be good for you. However, I would be remiss if I didn't help shape you up to be good for them," Sirius said with a casual smile.
"What do you mean?" Harry prodded.
"Well since you're away at school most of the year, I figured I'd go over the dos and don'ts with women. I'm going to wait for next summer to go over the Kama Sutra with you, and it'll be painfully embarrassing on both ends. But at least the wizarding book comes with animated pictures to help with that," Sirius answered with a small blush.
Harry turned red, "W-what? I think I can figure that out!" he squeaked.
"It's better to be prepared and informed instead of fumbling around. Fumbling around like that can lead to mistakes or injuries," Sirius admitted before running his hand through his hair.
"I'm pretty sure I can find a charm or the girls can find a potion when we get there. We aren't anywhere near close," Harry pressed.
"It's not just about protection," Sirius maintained, "If you don't know what you're doing you could seriously hurt them. Not just emotionally, but physically, and physical pain while being ah – intimate can lead to small trauma. It can make them scared to be intimate again. I've seen witches who have had bad experiences and turn from warm and caring to cold and stoic. While a witch can hex your bollocks off, when they're married, depending on the contract, they may be unable to defend themselves."
"What do you mean? Why wouldn't they be able to defend themselves?" Harry hesitated nervously.
"Some Purebloods… make ways to force a lineage to continue. Instead of always finding a love match, or a 'proper match'," Sirius used finger quotes, "families fall back on the tried and trusted method of marriage contracts. Marriage contracts are binding, magical marriage contracts even more so. They can include ways they can act, which is typically to keep the couple from killing each other. It also makes it so they have to, uh, be intimate at least until they have an heir. Even if one of the couple doesn't want it. Marriage rape is a very real thing, even in the muggle world. I'm glad Emma didn't have a magical marriage contract with her ex-husband, it would have been a lot messier…" Sirius remarked trailing off.
Harry nodded in agreement.
"I would never do that to either of them. I already told them both to let me know if I do anything that makes them uncomfortable," Harry voiced quietly.
"You're a good kid, pup," Sirius replied with a grin.
"Now come on, I have a few tips for you, and then you can practice later. I'll see if Honey can come over so I can show you the basic stuff. I still have to go over manners and pureblood manners with you, which will help," Sirius said standing up.
Luna happily painted the mural on her bedroom wall. She decided she would paint a new mural in place of the one she had made in the past future. A mural dedicated to her soulmates instead of just friends. Her father was more than willing to buy her a few new paints.
She had never heard Hermione sing in her last life, and was thrilled she had been able to. It was a wonderful holiday and she got to share it with her growing family. She knew her mother would be happy for her, even if she wished they had gone back further so she could maybe prevent her mother's death. According to Yui it wasn't meant to be, just as Harry had to lose his parents.
Other than that she had taken the time to meditate in her yard for her animagus practice. It was easier in her own patch of grass. Maybe during the Summer she could have Harry and Hermione spend the time with her.
Luna had decided to follow Hermione's lead when it came to her parents. They were both essentially new to her. She would accept them until they gave her a reason not to. It wasn't really Emma's fault when she couldn't love Hermione because of Dumbledore. Even if it wasn't intentional, it still negatively impacted the woman and it bled out onto her daughter. It was dreadfully complicated.
"Luna!" Xeno called.
"Yes?" Luna called back.
"Emma is here for you," Xeno informed her.
"Be right there!" Luna yelled, gently cleaning her brush and taking off her apron before heading downstairs.
"Mama!" Luna yelled as she ran and hugged the woman.
"Luna," Emma laughed as she firmly hugged the young witch close to her.
"What are you doing here?" Luna prodded.
"I didn't know what to put in your Easter basket the other day, and I know it's late, but I finished it yesterday," Emma explained.
"An Easter basket?" Luna asked.
"Yes, Severus informed me that Easter is typically just a sweets holiday for kids in the wizarding community. Muggle community however makes a big deal out of it, having turned it into a religious holiday. Thus, another holiday that presents are given. It's not quiet Christmas, but kids are supposed to wake up to Easter baskets. I made one for the three of you, Hermione already got hers. I wanted to give them to you all personally," Emma replied happily.
Luna pulled back to look the woman up in the face. Emma quickly and lovingly ran her hands through the young witch's hair. She let go of the young witch and turned around to pick the basket up from the table before turning around and handing it to said witch.
"Did Hermione and Harry get one?" Luna cajoled.
"Yes, they did. Severus sent Harry's along with an owl. Hermione woke up to hers being in front of her door," Emma answered.
Luna then took it curiosity peaked at the colorful looking grass padding before she looked at the rest of the contents. It was a large basket filled to the brim.
"Your dad let me know that all the paintings on the walls are all you. So since I know you can't paint on the walls at Hogwarts, I got you a few watercolor sketchbooks, some paints, brushes, pencils, I even found watercolor pencils!" Emma informed her happily.
Luna saw everything and some that Emma had gotten her. She could tell as an experienced artist they were all great quality. Which also meant it was very expensive.
"Thank you, Mama," Luna said with a bright grin.
Luna quietly took out each prize and grinned at them. She was very happy to notice a pack of plastic looking choker necklaces in various colors. She noticed a velvet bag and a long velvet case. Opening the velvet bag, she found 5 galleons and 5 sickles. Opening the velvet case revealed a delicate cable chain white gold necklace with a small hollow heart pendant. It was stylized with a blue sapphire dipped in the middle, with small diamonds on the upper right and lower left parts of the heart's outline.
"You can wear it for special occasions, I know it's something you might not want to wear every day. You can, of course, but I figured you'd prefer the chokers more," Emma said.
"I love it, I'll keep it here so I can wear it during holidays," Luna assured her new mother figure.
"Just remember, Severus is there for you too when you're at school," Emma stated kindly.
It wasn't long until they were back on Platform 9 3/4. Sirius had coordinated with Severus and Xeno so they could meet up and see their kids off together. As Emma would be there as well, the other wizards quickly agreed. They knew Emma was the mother figure for all the teens now. They wouldn't deny their kids their mother figure, all of them aware they were woefully unprepared.
Sirius had never been in charge of a child before, not even in Hogwarts as he was never made prefect. Severus was a teacher, but he ruled his class with fear, and made most students go see Madame Pomfrey about any rash or emotional need. His snakes knew they could go to him for protection, unraveling a spell they cast at a younger year because they wanted to 'practice' but didn't practice the counter-curse first. Xeno, while he loved Luna with all his heart, was aware that Luna needed a mother. He had no idea about womanly things other than to be supportive.
"Oh! I'm going to miss you all so much," Emma cried as she pulled the three into a hug.
"We'll miss you too, Mum," Hermione expressed for them.
"We'll write, Mama, I promise," Luna said.
"We'll miss you too, Mum," Harry murmured quietly.
"Before I send you back to that castle, I got you a few things. I got you each a box of crayons. Luna, I got you 5 coloring books, a sketchbook, and 2 puzzle books. One regular, one magical," Emma asserted as she reached into her messenger bag that had clearly been enchanted when she pulled out said items.
"Hermione, I have an extra sudoku book for you, a coloring book, and a rune puzzle book," Emma conferred casually.
"Hermione has puzzle books?" Harry asked. He should have figured, but being drugged to his ears with potions left him with noticing things now that he didn't notice before.
"Hermione does puzzle books to settle down at night if she's antsy," Emma replied.
"I wasn't sure what you wanted, so I also got you a coloring book, 3 puzzle books, and a set of checkers. Severus told me you only have chess in the common rooms," Emma said.
"Oh! Hermione, please share your colored pencils with Luna, I forgot to grab her a pack," Emma fussed.
"I will," Hermione replied.
"If I forgot anything else I'll send it through with your Dad, okay?" Emma told them, "If he refuses for any reason, then I'll just owl it."
Severus pursed his lips at that statement while Sirius barked a laugh.
Harry couldn't help but fidget even as he smiled. These were his in-laws, his family. This was sort of what he had always imagined. A fussing mum and a dad to laugh at his embarrassment. He had a Padfoot and a Mum.
"I'll make sure to write you weekly and more if I need help," Luna voiced as she squeezed Emma tight.
"I look forward to all your letters. Each of you," Emma reiterated.
"I love you, now get on the train before I start looking into day schools for you," Emma said while still holding them.
They were all happy and warm and felt loved. Emma was thrilled to be able to love Hermione and the rest of her children. She wanted to make sure they knew and felt loved by her. She had 14 years to make up for with Hermione, and with her at boarding school it was difficult. However, she was determined to make up for it and more.
"They can't get on the train until you let go," Sirius touted with a chuckle.
"I won't be the first to end boarding hugs with my kids, I'll hug them for as long as they want," Emma quipped with a sniff.
The three laughed and gave her another good squeeze before pulling away. As they did Emma noticed shiny pale blonde hair.
"Narcissa! I'm glad we arrived at the same time," Emma called pleasantly.
"Emma, I told you to call me Cissy," the witch tutted as she glided over, her hand still on Draco's shoulder.
"Hermione, Harry, Luna, this is Narcissa Malfoy. Hermione's Godmother," Emma introduced them.
"Congratulations, I hope it's a long engagement," Narcissa said, immediately noticing their rings.
Harry and Hermione blushed and grinned while Luna just beamed happily.
"That's what we're hoping for," Severus intoned with a sniff, "But who knows with Potter's luck."
Emma quickly turned to look at Severus, "What do you mean by that?" her eyes narrowed in warning.
Hermione had never seen her mother in 'mama bear' mode, it was both amusing and enlightening. Harry and Luna were both reminded of Hermione in that moment though.
"Potter has peculiar luck. It gets him into and out of trouble. Things just happen," Severus answered reluctantly. He clearly didn't want to fight or antagonize his partner.
"Hermione must have similar luck then. She didn't look for the troll, it went into her the girls' loo. She didn't mean to use cat hair in that potion, even if it was perfectly brewed. It worked for the other two, but not her," Emma replied with a wry smile.
"Miss Lovegood, I'm terribly sorry the Fates have decided you're to be with not one, but two trouble magnets," Severus said gravely, even as his eyes glittered with amusement.
Luna laughed, "I would choose them any day, Sir."
Meanwhile Draco had been a quiet observer for once.
"Emma, this is my son Draco. Draco, this is Emma Rose. You are familiar with her daughter and at least one of her Betrotheds," Narcissa announced.
Draco gave Emma a shallow bow, "I've heard nothing but good things, Miss Rose. Mother has corrected my behavior. I'm sorry, I wasn't aware that Miss Snape was a Half-Blood. Or my Godsister."
Emma nodded her head, "The apology would be best directed to Hermione, but I do accept and appreciate the apology. I hope you might use some time on the train to get used to one another. I was under the impression that we will see more of each other this Summer break."
Draco flushed but nodded and turned to Hermione.
"Miss Snape, I'm sorry for my behavior. It's unbecoming of a gentleman, especially one of my status. You didn't deserve any of it. If it wouldn't be too much of an imposition, may I accompany you on the train for an hour to get to know you and your Betrotheds better. Family is everything," his tone was sincere.
Hermione looked towards Harry to gauge his reaction.
"Harry? I would like to get to know my Godbrother," Hermione declared while chewing on her bottom lip.
Harry knew Hermione was asking him to put aside his differences with the other wizard. She was fully aware that the two would sooner draw wands on each other than not. However, he knew how hard it was for Hermione to make friends, even if she was the best friend anyone could have. A bit bossy, but always looking out for him with the best intentions.
Harry glared at Draco for a second before he held out his hand, "I'd like to call a Truce. We're both permanent in Hermione's life, we might as well."
Draco glanced at the offered hand and was tempted to throw the offer back in his face, but then he remembered his mother was also right there. Draco took Harry's hand and shook it.
"Don't think this makes me like Gryffindors," Draco said gruffly.
"Wouldn't dream of it," Harry replied flippantly.
"Why don't you three go pick a compartment," Emma suggested, "Draco will meet you there."
"Yes, Mum/Mama" was her quick reply. Emma quickly gave them all kisses on their heads.
"Good. I love you, be good, stay safe, study hard," Emma reiterated.
"We love you too," they said a little choked up.
Harry and Hermione were starved for motherly affection and love. Mrs. Weasley was good when they were mentally younger, but grew to find her stifling and overbearing. They understood why her kids all moved out immediately once they graduated Hogwarts.
Sirius patted Harry on his shoulder, "You kids get on the train, don't forget to write."
They nodded and boarded the train. Once they picked a compartment and put their things up, they flopped onto one bench. Luna quickly took advantage and laid across both their laps.
"Do you think Malfoy will really spend a whole hour with us?" Harry wondered.
"I'm not sure, part of me hopes so," Hermione admitted as she ran her hand through Luna's hair.
Harry quickly threw up a Muffliato, "Is it the part of you that remembers a good Malfoy?"
Hermione worried her bottom lip and nodded.
"If Hermione knows there's a good side to Draco Malfoy, then I think they should try to build a sibling relationship," Luna concluded.
"Will it be sibling relationship on both sides though?" Harry asked as he crossed his arms and leaned back into the seat and huffed.
Harry then reached out and grabbed one of Luna's hands softly and began playing with her fingers before he spoke again.
"We know it will be on Hermione's side, but he was also someone Hermione would have been happy with," Harry said before letting go of the blonde's hand and running his hand through his hair.
"I don't think it's something to worry about," Luna insisted with a shrug.
"My other concern is Voldemort's rebirth. He'll be at Malfoy Manor," Harry confided.
Hermione nodded understanding the issue, her face however was crestfallen. They didn't know how protected Draco would be or if Voldemort would look in his head first.
"I think as long as he isn't involved in our training, it'll be okay. You could even just meet up and play weekly checkers. Plus, it's not like we'll be telling him anything important like that," Harry said after noticing her change in mood, "And if you guys get close enough this time, we may be able to save him."
Hermione beamed and nodded. Harry knew then that he had made the right choice. Hermione already had so few friends and family, having a Godbrother must be something exciting. Harry canceled the spell as that line of conversation was done.
"Don't you have a Godbrother too?" Luna asked.
Harry blinked in confusion before his eyes widened, "Oh shit, I do. Neville."
Just then the door opened and Draco stood at the entrance alone and crossed his arms.
"Would now be a good time? I left my things in my own compartment," Draco inquired awkwardly.
Hermione nodded, "Now is a good time. Although I apologize ahead of time for Ronald, I'm not sure how he'll react."
Draco slowly walked into the compartment and sat across from them.
"I'm sure he'll make a big noise or something," Draco muttered.
"It's not just 'cause of you being here. We haven't heard from Ron since…" Harry trailed off not wanting to tell Malfoy about him ending the marriage contract with Ginny.
"Since he found out about me," Luna said dreamily.
Harry and Hermione looked at each other and agreed. They knew after they left everyone at the Burrow would know. While everyone would have been sent to their rooms, they knew that the twins and maybe Ron would have heard from the stairs. If not, they would bug Ginny about it. They did leave Ginny and Mrs. Weasley in a slight state of shock.
Draco looked at them with interest.
"While I don't like your choice in friends, I do have to admit they're loyal," Draco expressed awkwardly, "He might just be in shock still."
He was clearly trying to comfort her, but was not experienced in doing so.
Hermione's lip quirked up, "You'd think so. I know Neville, the twins, and these two are for sure. Thank you for not bringing Crabbe or Goyle."
Draco nodded, relaxing slightly, "I told them to watch my things and hold my seat. I wanted to do this right. Family is important to Malfoys. That I had a Godsister I knew nothing about, threw me for a loop, but I was curious about what having a sister would be like. I mean I always asked my parents for a brother."
Harry raised a brow at his school nemesis. He watched as the blond wizard rubbed his hands sweaty palms on his thighs. Malfoy was actually nervous. The fact that the blond wizard was sincere almost astounded Harry. Almost, as he was aware that the wizard was compatible with Hermione. So he expected them to eventually get along. Hermione, Harry discovered very quickly and early on in their friendship, only whole assed things. She never half assed anything. Even if she said she put little effort into something, she usually delivered it perfectly. He knew that Draco would be part of their lives forever.
Hermione smiled, "Welp, sorry you got a bossy sister."
Draco's face quickly twisted into a small smile; the kind you made when you were trying to hide it, but knew it was still showing. The wizard quickly blurted out a question to avoid awkward silence. He knew that if there were awkward silences, they would only get worse. During negotiations that was different and came off as intimidating, but in personal relationships not so much. His mother taught him that.
"So uh, what's your favorite color?" Draco asked.
"Aquamarine," Hermione said factually, "What about you?"
"Purple," Draco replied self-assuredly.
"What's your favorite book?" Hermione shot at him.
Draco cracked a crooked grin, "You would ask. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones."
Hermione beamed in surprise, "You too?"
Harry and Luna smiled at Hermione's excitement while Draco broke into a grin as he nodded.
"I'm surprised you know it. I know you're usually in the library looking up facts not fiction," he said with a smile.
"I read it before I came to Hogwarts and I kept a copy in my trunk in case I wanted to read something familiar," the curly haired witch replied, "I did find a copy in the library and read it to see if there were any differences."
"Really? Were there any?" Draco probed curiously.
Hermione smiled as she shook her head, "No. They're exactly the same. Do you know if the author is a muggle or a witch?"
Draco blushed, "She's a half-blood. She was mostly raised in the muggle world, but has a solid footing in our world. Mother says that while blood should be pure, we shouldn't be so extreme as to be ignorant of literature. She reminds me that Uncle Severus is a half-blood and he writes articles for potions weekly and other journals. That even mu-ggleborn can contribute to society."
The trio noticed his almost slip, but were pleasantly surprised that he curbed himself. Their attention was pulled away by the sound of the compartment door opening.
"What's going on here?" Ron demanded loudly.
"Hermione's getting to know her family," Luna informed him looking over, her head firmly on Hermione's lap.
"We called a Truce," Harry declared, rubbing Luna's hand.
Ron made a face and clearly thought before he spoke, "Is he gonna be here the whole train ride?" he asked begrudgingly.
"No, he's only spending an hour with me. If you want you can go see Seamus and Dean until then," Hermione said as casual as possible.
Ron nodded, "I will see you guys in an hour, let me just put my trunk up" he said civilly. He quickly put his trunk up and left, closing the door behind him.
"That was a lot less animated than I imagined it would be," Harry muttered.
Hermione nodded, "I'm glad. Hopefully he keeps on this way."
Draco shrugged as he couldn't care either way. It was surreal for him to even be in the same compartment as them.
"What's your favorite animal?" Luna lilted.
Draco looked at the other blonde, "Animal? Hm… sharks. If we include creatures, dragons of course. Snape?"
"It's Hermione. I love snow clouded leopards, they're sadly endangered," Hermione answered, giving Draco permission to say her first name.
"Then it's Draco. Including creatures?" he wondered genuinely curious.
"Including creatures? Grims," Hermione answered before looking down to the blonde in her lap.
"What about you Luna?" Hermione appealed.
"Unicorns, and my favorite creature is the ZouWu," Luna stated.
"ZouWu?" Harry and Draco asked.
"It's a Chinese creature. It's a scavenger, the size of elephants, feline like, four fangs that curve out of its mouth, long sharp claws, and a long multicolored tail," Luna answered.
Hermione was about to decide the creature was part of Luna's cryptomagizoology.
"I think I know what you're talking about," Draco said, "They're in a specific area of China and the smallest mature one is the size a tiger. I heard the locals would leave them offerings."
Hermione blinked in surprise. If such a creature existed it may be her next favorite creature!
"That sounds cool. Maybe one day we can go and see if the place also has a magic side that makes stuffed animals of them," Harry remarked.
Luna gasped and rolled so she was looking up at her bondmates, her front curled into theirs "Do you mean it?"
"Of course I do, it's your favorite, you should have a stuffy of it," Harry verified.
Draco nodded slightly impressed. It would only do to go to the place to get the most authentic looking one.
"Who's your favorite Quidditch team?" Draco asked.
"Appleby Arrows," Harry answered without thinking.
Hermione snorted in amusement, "Uninterested."
"What? Why!?" Draco implored incredulously.
"It's just not a sport I'm interested in. I know it's big in the wizarding community, but aside from watching Harry, I'm not really interested," Hermione answered honestly.
"Do you have a favorite sport?" Harry cajoled her.
Hermione blushed, "Yes. I like tennis."
"Why are you blushing? Are you ashamed of liking tennis?" Draco asked.
Hermione paused and pursed her lips, "I'm less ashamed and more embarrassed. I've spent the last few years at Hogwarts and aside from Harry, Ron, and Luna, no one has really asked about me. Even then, aside from Luna, no offense Harry, no one has actually asked me anything about my likes or dislikes. Everyone just assumes I only like books."
Draco frowned, "I guess I can see that. I don't know what tennis is, but I do know that aside from books and being top of our year, minus flying, I don't know anything about your personal life."
"I think it has more to do with the school's brooms being old," Luna pitched in dreamily.
"What do you mean?" Draco questioned.
"We grew up knowing magic and feeling our magic. Hermione didn't, but she knows the feeling of magic. It would make her more sensitive to feeling it," Luna explained.
Harry nodded in agreement. He knew what she meant. While Hermione was terrified of flying, she hadn't needed to be coerced into flying on Buckbeak. She didn't trust that the broom wouldn't quick working while she was mid-air. Perhaps he'd get her a Cleansweep or something to help her be more comfortable on one.
"Hey, Draco," Hermione started before nibbling on her bottom lip, "I do have a question, and it's important to me."
Draco sat up straighter, "What?"
"I know when a squib is born that they're sometimes kicked out of their family. How do the Old families react when the squib line produces magic again?" Hermione pondered.
"It depends on the family. Why? Did you find out your mum was the daughter of a squib?" Draco asked.
Hermione sighed, "Yes. My mum's dad, he's a squib."
"Is your grandmother also a squib?" Draco asked cautiously.
"No, she's a hedgewitch like my mum," Hermione answered.
"Can I ask what Family he was from?" Draco pressed delicately.
"The Greengrass family. That's why he decided on the name Rose," Hermione answered.
Draco paused, "They're neutral, so it can go either way."
"Would they acknowledge Hermione as family?" Harry queried.
"Hermione is one of your betrotheds, so I would assume yes. They're not social climbers, but they are good at social networking for business," Draco answered.
"How should we approach it?" Hermione entreated.
"I can see if Pansy will ask Greengrass for you," Draco said.
"You can't ask her yourself?" Harry asked.
Draco frowned, "No. Greengrass is known as the Ice Queen in Slytherin. She doesn't socialize well with wizards or at all if she can help it. She's cold when she talks to other people in general, but her best friend is Tracey Davis and she gets along with Pansy."
Harry shrugged and nodded in acceptance.
"Harry had suggested that we can meet up weekly in the library to play checkers," Hermione said.
"I don't know how to play checkers," Draco admitted with a small frown.
Harry pulled out his checkerboard, "This is checkers. It can use the same board as chess, but the pieces are flat and can only move diagonally. It's an easy game. To take a piece you have to jump it. Me and Hermione will play a quick game."
Hermione quickly agreed.
"Luna, stay still, we're going to use you as a table," Hermione bossed her blonde witch.
Luna smiled and giggled before she stayed as still as possible while her bondmates played checkers on her.
Draco watched intently and was pleased that Harry hadn't exaggerated and it was a simple game.
"Sure, we can play checkers in the library. Would Mondays be okay?" Draco asked.
Hermione shook her head, "No I'm very busy with classes during the week. It would have to be sometime during the weekend, or Friday evenings."
"Busy with classes?" Draco asked.
Hermione blushed, "Yes, and I have to do homework for most of them."
Harry nodded, "Hermione is an ambitious witch, the only class she didn't take was Divination."
Hermione made a face of distaste.
"What? Don't like Divination?" Draco cajoled.
"Unless you have the Gift it's a useless and wooly subject," Hermione answered, "I don't have the Gift."
"Luna might," Harry admitted, "But I think she would know more than the Professor honestly."
Hermione nodded firmly in agreement.
"How would you know? It's not like she comes to the Great Hall for her meals," Draco asked.
"I passed her in the hall once, and she just smelled like cooking sherry," Harry said, making up a quick white lie.
It wasn't entirely a lie, he had smelled her more than once in the hall, and she did wander down her ladder from time to time. Of course, the last time that happened, she made a prophecy about Wormtail.
Draco nodded.
"She's going to hate your mother, just so you know," Draco said.
"What? Why? She's never even met her," Hermione growled fiercely.
"She has a thing for your father and has been trying to convince him for years to give her a chance," Draco disclosed uncomfortably.
"She's been harassing my Dad to go out with her?" Hermione hissed dangerously.
Draco nodded.
"Don't worry Hermione, I'm sure a few public dates and she might stop," Luna said.
"You want mum to go to Hogsmeade with my dad during the visits when he isn't on patrol?" Hermione asked flatly.
"Yes, it would work. Hogsmeade is closely watched and students are more than eager to tell people what they saw. Especially if your grumpy dad is out with a less grumpy face with Mama," Luna answered.
Draco grabbed his chin as he thought and nodded, "If people saw Uncle Sev with your mother, that information would spread everywhere. Not just Hogwarts. Uncle Sev has zero tolerance for idiots even outside of the classroom."
Harry snorted in agreement.
"And he isn't afraid to let people know what he thinks of them if they aren't in a current position of power over him," Draco added.
Hermione bit her lip to stop from laughing. Harry however looked like a kicked puppy.
"What?" Draco prodded.
"Hermione is also like that," Luna answered with a smile, "It's one of the reasons we love her. Harry is just upset that Hermione and her father share personality quirks and he loves them… with her."
Hermione couldn't hold it anymore and started laughing while Harry groaned. Draco got caught up in the moment and laughed with them. Luna beamed happily; she got to be there to witness Hermione and her godbrother's first shared laugh.
The rest of their time with Draco was pleasant and they were actually looking forward to checker nights. They had agreed that it would be good for Draco to get used to all of them.
Draco looked as though he was going to stand up as the hour was nearing and looked at Hermione with a piercing gaze.
"Would you mind, since you're so busy with school work, if I sat at your table if I see you in the library?" Draco asked softly, his eyes were intense however, "I – I promise it's not to copy or anything!"
Hermione gave him a small smile before she replied, "Of course. If your friends can be civil, they can come too. However, I would prefer for the first week back that it's just you."
Draco nodded, "I can do that. I'll make sure I talk to Pansy before we reach Hogwarts."
"Thanks, Draco," Hermione said.
Harry gave him a 'don't fuck this up' look before he nodded.
Once he had left their compartment, 20 minutes after their agreed hour, Ron had made his appearance.
"Hey," Ron said awkwardly as he sat across from the trio.
"Hey," Harry replied.
"So, Loony Lovegood?" Ron asked.
"Her name is Luna and you will only refer to her as such," Hermione censured the wizard firmly with slight bass in her voice.
Ron raised his hands after he noticed Harry was also glaring at him.
"Sorry, sorry. But still, Luna?" Ron pressed.
"Yes, Luna. Yes, Hermione," Harry said.
"Why couldn't you have tried to kiss Ginny first?" Ron demanded.
"Because like we told her, it's all of us together," Luna explained.
Hermione nodded, "I'm not attracted to Ginny. I'm not going to force a kiss with someone I see only as your little sister."
Harry shrugged at that, "We're not attracted to Ginny the way we are with each other."
Ron made a face of disgust, "I guess I can see that. I think I'm just confused cause Mum always said you'd be with Ginny."
Hermione bit her the inside of her cheek hard. Ronald Weasley knew and didn't tell anyone. Hermione decided instead that she would take out a book and play with Luna's hair for the remaining trip.
Harry struggled to play peace keeper, knowing that Hermione was furious. Luna was also upset, but being cuddled by both of them made it easier for her. Harry had eventually handed her some watercolors so she could paint on Hermione's arm. Hermione allowed it, knowing watercolor would wash off easy. Besides, being a witch, worse things had been on her skin, potion ingredients came to mind.
Ron would occasionally look at Hermione and Luna, the sight was bizarre to him. However, Harry had managed to keep most of his attention, more so when the Trolly lady came. He bought everyone a little something.
When Harry and Hermione entered the common room, just before curfew, they noticed Neville tending to a plant in the corner. Hermione lightly elbowed Harry and nodded her chin at the pudgy wizard.
Harry knew what she was saying and walked over to the shy wizard.
"Hey, Neville," Harry said.
Neville startled and looked up surprised, "Oh! Hey, Harry. Did you need something?" he asked.
Harry rubbed the back of his neck, "Yeah, actually. I found out over the break that your mum is my godmother, making you my godbrother. I, uh, I wanted to see if you wanted to spend some time together. I always wanted a brother."
Neville looked at Harry flabbergasted.
"W-wow, Harry. I thought you knew and just didn't want to be seen with a squib," Neville blurted out.
"No. I grew up muggle and I didn't know anything until I got my Hogwarts letter like a muggleborn," Harry explained.
"I don't know what you'd like to do. I'm barely a wizard," Neville said.
"Nonsense," Harry dictated firmly, "You're Neville Longbottom, my godbrother. I won't have you talking ill of my brother."
Neville flushed and smiled shyly, "Okay. But I really don't – we can play chess!"
Harry smiled, "I brought a new game with me, checkers. I can teach you how to play. It uses the same board as chess."
"Sure!" Neville said with a grin.
Hermione smiled in the background before she went up to her dorm.
"Hey, Harry," Ron called one evening.
Semester had resumed for a week letting the students get back into routine. It was after classes and Hermione had gone up earlier than normal leaving the duo in the common room. Neville was doing his homework on a nearby table.
"Yeah?" Harry asked, looking up from the fire.
"Is something wrong with Hermione? She hasn't mentioned any of her color-coded schedules, or homework, or anything like that to me since we came back. We just had a ton of homework, and she usually nags way more to make sure we did it. Is it cause you're dating?" Ron pressed.
Harry looked at Ron unimpressed. He knew where this was going and he was going to try to put a stop to it now. Harry knew there was a slim chance, considering how stubborn the redhead could be.
"We did it over break. You already know Hermione takes time with me and Luna in the library every night anyways, we do our studying and homework then. It's actually a lot easier than cramming it the night before," Harry answered.
"Yeah, but I thought it was just your triad hanging out since Hermione doesn't really like the outdoors," Ron admitted.
Harry shook his head, "No, Luna makes sure we go on a walk at least once a day if it's not raining because she likes the outdoors."
"Wow. Hermione must really like Luna then," Ron said.
"Ron, Hermione loves Luna. We both do. Luna is already smart and can typically keep up with Hermione, so if I have a question, they're both there to answer or help," Harry stressed to the other wizard.
He didn't need to tell Ron that he had already done it all before, making it a lot easier to just bunk down and do his homework. Hermione was more relaxed because she already knew the answers, and just grabbed the books to make exact references. Otherwise, she spent most of her time reading the more advanced books she didn't have time to read their last life.
Ron sighed in frustration.
"Why? What's up?" Harry asked. He did his best to appear interested when really, he was suspicious of the other wizard's intentions.
"I was just – I need Hermione's help with homework. It's so boring! There's too much!" Ron said frustratedly.
"Ron, Hermione made it pretty clear that this year you can't copy off of her," Harry replied blandly.
"Yeah, but that was before this mountain of homework! McGonagall said she wants it all by Friday. I still have to do Charms, Herbology, and Defense," Ron groaned, "I only did potions so Snape doesn't breathe down my neck and give me a Troll."
"Ron, it was a lot, but I haven't seen you do much of it since we got back," Harry retorted.
"Can I just copy off you?" Ron asked.
"Listen, mate. Charts and sketches are one thing, but I can't let you copy my essays anymore," Harry informed the other wizard.
"Why not!?" Ron exclaimed.
"Because Snape is going to be my Father-in-law. He's been keeping a close eye on me; you think he won't notice?" Harry fibbed.
Ron made a face of distaste, "Tough luck, mate. I guess I get it. Just, yours and Hermione's always gets me at least an EE."
"Ron, have you seen the fifth and seventh years. They look like they're having a mental breakdown every other day," Harry said.
"Yeah, OWLs and NEWTs. Glad it's not us just yet," Ron commiserated.
"Yeah, you know why they're freaking out?" Harry asked with a deadpan expression.
"Cause they're important tests," Ron answered.
Harry rolled his eyes, "Not just that. A lot of them took shitty notes."
"Well, what do you expect? We're not Ravenclaw," Ron replied as though it was obvious.
"Ron, Hermione still has her color-coded charts. She's been making sure that I stay on track. You just haven't been around," Harry said.
He knew that if he said it first, then Ron wouldn't be able to. He knew Ron rarely accepted responsibility for his actions.
"I haven't been around? You've been off with Hermione and Luna all the time!" Ron accused, getting red in the face.
"Yeah. And Neville, and sometimes even Malfoy," Harry replied.
Ron sputtered for a moment, "Neville and Malfoy?"
"Yeah, Neville comes with us to the library. Sometimes Malfoy is there, and sometimes he comes over and sits at the table with us and we do our homework," Harry answered.
Ron made a face of disgust.
"Ron, if you spend even like three days a week in the library it won't feel like a lot," Harry admitted.
"You've changed, mate," Ron said with narrowed eyes.
"Yeah? And? I grew up a bit," Harry retorted.
"What? I think you've been spending too much time around the books. It's not healthy," Ron snapped.
Harry gave Ron an unimpressed look.
"I still play Quidditch, I still play chess, I play checkers, exploding snaps, and I still make sure my work is done," Harry sniped.
Ron glowered at Harry before his stood up and stormed up to the dorm. Harry watched him go with clear disinterest.
"Tough luck, mate," Neville comforted softly, looking up from his homework.
Harry's face screwed up, "Not really. If he wanted to be around, he would."
Neville looked at Harry for a moment, his mouth slightly open, before nodding in agreement. It was a few seconds later that the pudgy boy looked back up.
"Thanks for hanging out with me, Harry," Neville said softly.
"I like hanging out with you, Nev. Sure I might not enjoy Herbology the way you do, but you take to it like you were born to do it. Even Hermione has no issues asked you for anything in-depth when it comes to Herbology," Harry replied.
Neville smiled shyly, but happily.
The triad and Neville were in the library, clearly having finished for the evening and quietly cleaning up and chatting. Hermione had been listening to Luna about when to stop for the evening. Even though she had the most course work load, she still managed to do so healthily listening to Luna. Harry was just glad he was learning something useful and that he liked. Who knew he'd like Runes?
"Do you have a book picked out?" Luna lilted.
Hermione nodded, "I have a book I found in the corner at the top shelf in the Charms section."
"What's it about?" Neville asked.
The young wizard was slowly coming out of his shell, and Harry was glad for it. They each encouraged it, and even Draco stopped picking on him since Hermione made sure he was aware that Neville was Harry's godbrother.
"Enchanting things, I think I wouldn't mind having a pair of earrings that would also be something practical," Hermione answered.
"I know that enchanted things sell for a very hefty price. They don't teach it in classes," Neville said.
Hermione moved the book over and swiped a heavy layer of dust off, she had to do so a few times. The cover was slightly faded, green velvet. It was clear that only magic was keeping it together.
"I wish there was a way to make sure that velvet covers didn't disintegrate after a while," Hermione lamented with a moue.
"I'm sure they'll find a way at some point," Luna announced optimistically.
Harry smiled at his girls. He couldn't help but randomly smile at their interactions, they made him happy. He loved being part of the love they expressed. He took the books they no longer needed and brought them to Madame Pince's desk while everyone packed up.
"Are we ready?" Harry asked them when he returned, grabbing his bag and cloak.
Both girls and Neville nodded.
"Alright, Nev, we'll see you in like an hour?" Harry said ending with a question.
Luna nodded, "About an hour so we're in before curfew."
"Hey, Harry, do you want me to bring your and Hermione's bag up to the tower so you don't have to carry everything?" Neville proposed, offering help.
Harry grinned at his godbrother, "Thanks, Nev. But until Ron cools down, I don't trust him to not do something petty or spiteful. For all I know he would just say 'it's just a prank mate, Fred and George do it all the time'. I really don't want those issues," he explained.
Hermione rolled her eyes, "Oh honestly, Harry. All you need to do is ask and I can charm all your things so that's not an issue."
Neville raised his eyebrows at her in surprise causing her to blush.
"Why would you need to know those things, Hermione?" Neville asked.
"Well… I was bullied before I came here. I know how bullies act and I wanted to make sure my things wouldn't be damaged or thrown about, or even dropped in a fountain. It was one of the first things I practiced besides repair spells," Hermione admitted.
Neville nodded in understanding. He knew how bullies were. He wasn't sure if it got better or worse after he got to Hogwarts all things considered.
"Could you do that for me, please?" Harry pleaded, holding the bag out to her.
Hermione nodded, "Let's find a different room. I don't like casting in the hallways or the library."
They quickly found an empty room and Hermione cast all the anti-theft spells, fireproof, and waterproof.
Hermione looked up and held her hand out towards Neville.
"What?" he squeaked.
"Give me your things, Nev. So, I can charm them," Hermione said.
Harry quickly took Neville's things and handed them to Hermione while his godbrother was trying to process what was happening. It took him a while to get used to Hermione and how she did things too. Thus, he wasn't bothered by Neville's response or lack thereof.
"Hermione already did mine," Luna told the other wizard.
Neville looked at both Harry and Luna before looking at Hermione, who was concentrating while waving her wand and muttering under her breath. They way she was casting her spells reminded him of his Uncle Algie. Uncle Algie could cast silently, but he said that the words spoken aloud is what initially gave wizards their power. Words used to be spells for both muggle and wizards alike. Uncle Algie even taught him how in ancient Egypt, the Hieroglyphics would have marks that 'stabbed' whatever word could be used as a curse, so it would nullify it.
"Here you go, Nev," Hermione beamed, handing him his things back.
Neville startled slightly before grinning at her, "Thanks, Hermione. I hope you guys enjoy your walk."
"We will, Nev. Thanks," Harry said clapping him on the back and handing him his bag.
As the triad left, Neville felt the magic on his bag and things. It was very strong and well woven. He knew Hermione was a perfectionist so he was only amazed that they cared enough about him to do that for him. He could feel the same strength of magic on Harry's bag too.
It was then that it hit him, that they trusted him. They trusted him more than Ron. Neville's lips wobbled at the revelation that he had friends, who trusted him. He didn't let any tears fall despite being so happy he felt better than if he were hit with a cheering charm. They hadn't meant to, but Neville would do anything for them from that small action. He made sure to carefully place Harry's bag on the side of his bed, where he always kept it.