A Malfoy's Christmas
A/N—This is a prompt story that was given to me. I hope everyone loves or likes it. Thanks again for reading it. Okay, the old one will be deleted in a month. I have edited this one to the best of my abilities, using Grammarly for the rest of the edits.
Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter. However, I do own this plotline.
Summary: Eight year, Hermione and the rest came back for their last year. Rivals were forgotten, new romances arrived, and head boy & girl fell in love with each other—a proposal at the Christmas Ball.
Prompt:Forget the holly, the berries, the bows and tinsel. The loveliest sight of the season was the woman standing before him.
TimeLine: EighthYear [After Voldemort is defeated]
Content Warning: Lots of kissing, dirty thoughts, sensual touching and possibly more.
….
It was a chilly December afternoon when the first genuine day of the winter season arrived at Hogwarts. Although snow had occasionally graced the grounds in October and November, Hermione Granger viewed those fleeting flurries as mere practice for the heavy, enveloping snowfalls that typically marked December. She sat by the window, her warm caramel eyes gazing out through the frosted glass pane of the common room, captivated by the delicate dance of snowflakes drifting down from the gray sky.
Hermione began to count them, a whimsical challenge she often set for herself, but her focus waned as she reached one hundred and fifty-seven. Just then, the familiar voices of her best friends, Harry Potter and Ron Weasley, mixed with laughter and chatter, broke through her concentration. Her boyfriend, Draco Malfoy, joined them, and she could hear the warmth of their camaraderie echoing through the room, a stark contrast to the chill outside.
This year marked Hermione's eighth and final term at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, a bittersweet milestone filled with countless memories and challenges. To her immense pride, she had been appointed Head Girl, a position she shared with Draco. Initially, however, they faced a rocky start; the first month of the year was fraught with tension. Every meeting between the two Heads felt like a duel, with disagreements flaring over everything from scheduling to school policies.
Yet, as she watched the snow settle softly on the iconic castle grounds, Hermione felt a flicker of hope. She was determined to make this year memorable, not just for herself but for all her friends who had fought so hard to survive the trials of the past. Armed with resiliency and a touch of optimism, she resolved to embrace whatever challenges lay ahead, hoping the biting cold of winter would bring them all closer together.
In the second month, an unexpected alliance was blessed between Hermione and Draco, as they called a truce. Throughout this month, they set aside their differences and took the time to delve deeper into each other's personalities, discovering shared interests and values that painted a richer picture of their connection. Their conversations flowed easily, filled with laughter and revelations, and what began as a mere truce gradually evolved into a budding romance. They spent afternoons in quiet corners of the library, exchanging whispered thoughts over stacks of books, and slowly, they found themselves embracing the complexities of their new relationship.
By the third month, Harry and Ron realized that they needed to mend fences with Hermione after their earlier fallout. In a surprising turn of events, they approached Draco, acknowledging the initially tense atmosphere that had surrounded them and expressing a desire for peace. This olive branch came as a shock to Draco, who had been accustomed to their animosity, but he recognized the sincerity behind their request. With cautious optimism, the three young wizards began to break down the walls that had separated them, slowly fostering a sense of camaraderie as they shared stories, laughed at inside jokes, and navigated the intricacies of friendship.
Hermione often reflected on a particular day that lingered vividly in her memory: the day Harry and Ron confronted Draco over their budding relationship. Their anger had flared when they found out about Hermione's feelings for him, as they vehemently dismissed Draco's intentions, convinced it was all part of a cunning ploy. "He's just playing you, Hermione!" they had exclaimed, gazes filled with suspicion. In a moment of fury, Harry and Ron brandished their wands at Draco, their loyalty to Hermione driving them to protect her at all costs. Despite the chaos of that day, it became a pivotal moment, one that highlighted the evolution of their relationships and set the stage for the friendships that would ultimately defy their past rivalries.
Of course, she stepped in right after both her friends had muttered spells under their. Hermione inhaled sharply, her heart racing. Fortunately for her, she had her wand at the ready, allowing her to deflect both spells aimed in their direction. The intensity of the moment quickly gave way to frustration as she turned on her friends, scolding them for their reckless behaviour before she yanked Draco away from the fray, her cheeks flushed with anger. Despite her irritation, Draco managed to calm her down with a thoughtful message, bringing a flicker of a smile to her face. To lighten the mood, they decided to unwind by projecting a few muggle movies onto the common room wall using Hermione's wand, the flickering images casting playful shadows around the room.
At first, the unexpected camaraderie among the three wizards—Ron, Harry, and Draco—left their peers in a state of disbelief, especially with the budding relationship between Draco and Hermione. The sight of them wandering the ancient hallways of Hogwarts, laughing and debating side by side, took some getting used to for their classmates. Gradually, most students adapted to the unusual dynamic, but a distinct group within Slytherin remained vocal in their disdain. Those very Slytherins took to pen and parchment, dispatching letters to Draco's mother, which only added fuel to the fire of their discontent.
Hermione could vividly recall the moment when Draco received one of those letters from his mother—a note laced with concern and a hint of disappointment. Curiosity piqued, she had leaned in to catch a glimpse of its contents before Draco turned it around for her to see. A warm smile spread across her face as she read his mother's words. She had expressed a desire to see her son during the next Hogsmeade visit and had insisted that Hermione accompany him, eager to meet the witch who had become such an important part of Draco's life so quickly.
From that day forward, Hermione felt an unexpected sense of belonging. Despite the brevity of their relationship, she felt woven into the fabric of Draco's family. It was as if she had been officially adopted into their circle, a testament to how deeply their connection had already taken root.
"Hermione! Are you ready yet?" Draco's voice boomed through the heavy wooden door of the Head's dormitory, echoing slightly in the quiet hallway.
Hermione looked up from where she sat on the edge of her bed, her heart racing. She was momentarily lost in the vivid memories of the last few months—the struggles, the victories, and the sense of camaraderie that had blossomed among the students following Voldemort's defeat. Time had slipped away from her in this reverie, and she realized with a jolt that she hadn't even begun to prepare for the much-anticipated Christmas Ball. The entire school was abuzz with excitement, eager to celebrate not only the holiday season but also the newfound freedom they had all fought so hard to achieve. According to the rules announced by the professors, first through third years were expected to leave the festivities by ten, and fourth through sixth years by midnight. In contrast, seventh and eighth years enjoyed the privilege of coming and going as they pleased, a sign of their maturity.
"In a minute!" Hermione called back, her voice a mix of urgency and anticipation. She picked up her wand with purpose, her fingers brushing over its cool surface as she cast a quick cleaning spell. The incantation flowed off her lips, and she felt a refreshing wave wash over her, bringing with it the soft, slightly tart scent of green apples that invigorated her senses. With a few more deft flicks of her wand, she conjured a light charm that brightened the space around her, illuminating every corner of her room as if it were basking in the glow of her excitement.
Quickly, she approached the mirror that hung on the wall, her heart pounding as she checked her reflection. Her hair, which had been in a messy bun earlier, now cascaded down her shoulders in soft, elegant curls that framed her face perfectly. She adjusted the delicate emerald green satin dress that hugged her form, its fabric shimmering under the gentle light. Satisfied that she looked presentable, she took a deep breath and straightened her back, readying herself for the festivities ahead.
With renewed resolve, she opened the door, and her breath caught for a moment as she took in Draco's appearance. He stood there, tall and poised, clad in a perfectly tailored black tuxedo that accentuated his lean frame. The crisp white shirt beneath contrasted sharply with the dark jacket, and his tie was impeccably knotted. Hermione couldn't help but notice how he had restrained the use of gel in his hair; instead, it was neatly slicked back, giving him a polished yet approachable look. The captivating scent of his spiced body wash wafted toward her, a comforting reminder of their shared moments, and her eyes were drawn to the subtle outline of his muscles beneath the fitted fabric of his coat, a testament to his athleticism.
The air between them was charged with anticipation and nervous excitement, reflecting the festive spirit that surrounded them both.
As Draco leaned against the cool stone wall, waiting for his girlfriend to emerge from the nearby classroom, his mind wandered back over the past three months they had spent together. It felt incredible to be with someone who understood him on a level that transcended the usual parent-child dynamics. Throughout this school year, he found himself reflecting on his mother frequently. How was she coping with everything? Was she managing to stay strong in the shadow of their family's dark legacy? So many questions lingered in his mind, especially since their opportunities to communicate through owl posts had been limited.
In stark contrast to his concerns for his mother, Draco was well aware of the situation revolving around his father. Lucius Malfoy, once a powerful figure in the wizarding community and Voldemort's right-hand man, had been sentenced to life in Azkaban. The moment the gavel struck and the sentence was announced echoed vividly in Draco's memory. He couldn't help but smirk, a mixture of relief and exhilaration washing over him. It was a turning point in his life—the realization that he could finally embrace who he was without the constant fear of his father's wrath looming over him. The weight of his father's oppressive expectations had lifted, allowing him to breathe for the first time.
As the war progressed, the tides changed not just for Lucius but for Draco as well. He had also faced charges for his involvement in the conflict; his name was tied to a legacy of darkness that had haunted his family. However, the court had shown leniency. Being a minor at the time and having been coerced into his role, Draco received a significantly reduced sentence. The punishment wasn't as harsh as he had feared. The terms were straightforward: he would need to complete his final year at Hogwarts and contribute a total of twenty thousand galleons divided among four charities over the next five years—five thousand galleons each.
With a sense of purpose, he had already begun contemplating which charities would benefit from his contributions. It was important to him that his money went to causes that could make a genuine difference in the lives of others, particularly those who had suffered due to the very ideologies he had once been a part of. This newfound sense of agency fueled him; it felt like a way to right some of the wrongs of his past and create a brighter future.
In just a few heartbeats, the door swung open, and the moment he laid eyes on his girlfriend, Draco was utterly captivated. Her dress, a shimmering silvery grey, caught the light beautifully, with delicate sparkles cascading along the hem and shimmering around the bodice like stars in a night sky. The strapless design gracefully embraced her figure, flowing elegantly to the floor, leaving only a hint of her striking silver heels peeking out from beneath the fabric.
She carried a small purse that mirrored the soft sheen of her dress, creating a harmonious unity in her ensemble. Her make-up was subtle yet perfectly chosen; elegant highlights accentuated her natural beauty rather than overshadowing it. As she blinked, taking in the sight of the wizard before her, Draco could see soft shades of silver and deep blue delicately brushed over her eyelids, enhancing her gaze with a magical allure that left him breathless. The entire scene was enchanting, and in that moment, everything else faded away.
Draco extended his arm to Hermione with a charming smile, and she gracefully took it, their fingers intertwining. "You look absolutely stunning tonight, Hermione," Draco said softly, brushing his lips against hers in a light, affectionate kiss that sent a flutter of warmth through her. As they descended the winding staircase, the flickering candlelight cast playful shadows around them, illuminating their path with a soft glow.
As they approached the common room door, an unexpected rush of air caused it to swing open seemingly on its own, a peculiar yet enchanting occurrence that both intrigued and amused them. Stepping outside, they were greeted by a lively scene: Harry and Ginny stood side by side, their faces bright with laughter, while Ron animatedly spoke with a spark of excitement in his eyes.
However, it was the figure that stood beside Ron—a short, dark-haired witch with an unmistakable presence—that caught Draco and Hermione off guard. They exchanged a surprised glance and did a double-take to take in the scene fully. It took a brief moment for realization to wash over them, and they both blinked in disbelief. Standing there, dressed impeccably for the evening, was none other than Pansy Parkinson, Ron's unexpected date. The sight stirred a surge of emotions in the air as Draco felt a mix of surprise and amusement at this latest twist in their circle of friends.
A haughty, elitist pureblood who believed she was superior to all else. Draco had known Pansy intimately in the past, yet the sight that greeted him sent a jolt of disbelief through his body; even Hermione seemed taken aback by what she saw.
"Pansy, Ron…" Draco began, his voice trailing off as he considered how to approach the topic.
Ron, always ready to fill in the silence, jumped in with a grin. "Well, it's a bit of a story. You see, about a month before the school year kicked off, Pansy and I just happened to bump into each other at the Leaky Cauldron. We started chatting, you know, just catching up on the summer and all that. One moment led to another, and by the end of that afternoon, I gathered enough courage to ask Pansy out on a proper date." His eyes twinkled with the memory as he added, "And to my delight, she said yes!"
Hermione, who had been listening intently, furrowed her brow in consideration. "That actually explains a lot. I remember when I told you both that I was dating Draco, and you didn't react as strongly as I expected. You must have been preoccupied with your news," she mused, a playful smile creeping across her face.
Ron nodded, acknowledging her observation. A sheepish grin spread across his features as he added, "Yeah, I still had to give you a bit of a hard time about it, though. Sorry for being such a pest, Hermione. And I owe you an apology too, Draco," he remarked, turning his attention towards the blond Slytherin.
Draco, who had been quiet until now, gave a subtle nod in response. The corners of his mouth curled slightly, an uncharacteristic expression of camaraderie shining through as he accepted Ron's apology. The atmosphere felt lighter, woven with the threads of their shared experiences and budding relationships.
"Are we ready?" Pansy asked softly, her voice barely above a whisper. Draco noticed the flicker of anxiety in her eyes as she glanced toward Hermione, Ginny, and Harry. Her hands trembled slightly, betraying her nerves about being in their company.
Draco took a moment to reassure her before turning his full attention back to the others. With a gentle smile, he extended his arm toward Hermione, a familiar gesture that spoke of their growing camaraderie despite their complicated pasts. The atmosphere was charged, a mixture of excitement and tension, as the three couples began to stroll down the corridor toward the Great Hall.
As they walked, Draco's left hand instinctively moved to his pocket, a secret smile spreading across his face. He couldn't resist the brief distraction as he pulled his hand from his pocket, glancing back at Hermione with a sense of anticipation.
Meanwhile, in her world, Hermione was deep in thought, mentally reviewing her meticulously crafted list for the upcoming Christmas Ball. Her brow furrowed as her mind raced through the details—venue, guests, and themes—when suddenly, a sense of panic washed over her. Her eyes widened in realization; she had completely forgotten to include the berries on her list. They were a crucial part of the decor, and the thought of leaving them out sent her heart racing.
"Hermione, what is troubling you?" Draco asked softly, his voice laced with concern. He noted the furrowing of her brows and the worry etched across her features, making it clear that something was on her mind.
She leaned in closer, her voice barely above a whisper, as she replied, "I forgot about the berries." There was an edge of panic in her tone that made Draco's heart skip.
In response, he flashed her a trademark Malfoy smirk—one that made her pulse quicken, and her irritation rises at the same time. It was the kind of grin that always tempted her to give him a playful slap on his elegantly sculpted face. Instead, she settled for a fierce glare, attempting to convey her frustration without words.
"You didn't forget the berries, Hermione. It's the wine that's the issue," Draco pointed out, his expression shifting to one of playful mischief.
"What wine?" she asked, her confusion evident as she tried to piece together his cryptic hints.
"You'll see," he replied enigmatically, his voice rich with promise. It was a singular warning, hinting at the surprise he had planned for their evening together, leaving her both intrigued and apprehensive about what was to come.
As the group approached the Great Hall, the massive doors creaked open, revealing a breathtaking scene that left everyone momentarily speechless. Hermione's eyes sparkled with delight as she took in the enchanting atmosphere, even in the absence of the magical berries that usually enhanced the festive spirit. The hall was a masterpiece of holiday decor, with delicate strands of mistletoe artfully interspersed among lush green sprigs, their tiny white berries glimmering like little jewels in the soft glow of the decorations.
The vibrant colours of the décor enveloped the hall, with rich reds, deep greens, shimmering silvers, and warm golds blending harmoniously to create a captivating visual feast. Thanks to some magical enchantment, a series of grand Christmas trees adorned with twinkling lights and sparkling ornaments seemed to float gracefully above the guests. Their gentle illumination cast a warm glow over the cheering crowd and the couples spinning on the dance floor below.
As they stepped fully into the hall, the atmosphere thrummed with joyous energy; the ball had reached its crescendo. Uplifting music filled the air, encouraging couples to sway and twirl with laughter echoing through the expansive space. Ron and Pansy, caught up in the infectious spirit, wasted no time in making their way toward the dance floor, where they quickly wrapped their arms around one another, their expressions bright with excitement and joy, eager to join the lively celebration around them. The entire scene was a beautiful tapestry of friendship, love, and holiday magic.
As the lively atmosphere of the Great Hall enveloped them, Harry and Ginny carefully navigated through the throng of excited Gryffindors, their expressions filled with anticipation. Meanwhile, Hermione remained at Draco's side, and their tension was a strange mix of discomfort and exhilaration. Slowly, they began to make their way toward the dance floor, which sparkled with a cascade of twinkling fairy lights, casting an enchanting glow on the polished floor.
With a gentle yet firm motion, Draco slid his right hand around Hermione's waist, drawing her closer. His left hand enfolded her right, their fingers intertwining comfortably. Hermione's palm rested lightly on his shoulder, feeling the pulse of the celebration around them. As they moved together, Draco skillfully guided her through the crowd, their bodies swaying gracefully to the soft rhythm of the music.
The song drifted on, wrapping them in a bubble of momentary bliss as they twirled and glided across the dance floor. Their hearts raced in sync with the music until the melody slowly faded away, signalling the end of their dance. Just as a new tune was about to begin, the sound of clapping resonated throughout the hall, pulling everyone's attention toward the front.
With an air of authority and warmth, Headmistress McGonagall stood before the gathered students, her smile radiating pride. "Welcome to the Christmas Ball!" she announced, her voice firm yet friendly. I want to express my gratitude to your Heads, both boys and girls, for their tireless efforts in organizing this splendid event for you all."
As the spotlight shifted to illuminate Hermione and Draco, they exchanged amused glances, both slightly embarrassed yet gleeful at the sudden attention. They smiled brightly and waved to their classmates, momentarily feeling like the stars of the evening. Once the light moved away and McGonagall began to speak again, Hermione found it challenging to focus on her words. Instead, her gaze wandered across the crowd, and she watched her friends laugh and dance, enveloped in the spirit of the festivities.
Finally, the music surged back to life, filling the space with vibrant notes that beckoned them to join in once more. Energized by the celebration, Hermione's smile widened as she fell back into the rhythm, ready to lose herself in the joyful dance.
As the last notes of the music faded into silence, Hermione drew back from Draco, her eyes sparkling as she surveyed their surroundings. "We really executed our plan well, didn't we?" she asked, a hint of satisfaction in her voice.
Draco flashed her a charming smile, his confidence evident. "You did the lion's share of the work, my dear. Truly, everyone should thank you for bringing this all together. But remember, you're my witch. Your dances are meant for me and me alone." His voice was teasing, playful yet earnest, as he leaned in closer, the warmth of his breath mingling with hers.
With a graceful motion, he bent forward, capturing her lips in a tender kiss that soon deepened into something far more intense. It started softly, with a gentle caress, but quickly ignited into a passionate exchange. Each kiss was filled with fervour and longing, as if he wanted to convey all the love he held for her at that moment. The urgency of his lips against hers sent sparks of heat coursing through her; it felt as though he were peeling away her layers, drawing them closer together in a whirlwind of desire and affection.
"Hey, none of that, Draco," Theo interjected firmly as he approached the two of them. He had a casual confidence about him, balanced by the playful glint in his eyes. In his hands, he carefully balanced three elegant wine glasses, their crystal surfaces catching the light and sparkling like gems. The atmosphere was charged with an unspoken tension, and Theo's timely arrival seemed to cut through it like a knife.
Draco pulled away from his Hermione, and her lips were swollen and red. Her shade of red lipstick was unsmudged. Her breathing was heavy, her nicely shaped breasts raised up and down.
He handed them each a glass, his eyes twinkling with amusement. Hermione took hers gratefully, hoping the cool liquid would calm her flushed cheeks. Draco, on the other hand, glared at Theo with barely concealed annoyance.
"Your timing is impeccable as always, Nott," Draco drawled sarcastically but accepted the wine nonetheless.
Theo chuckled, "Someone has to keep you two in check. This is still a public event, after all."
Hermione sipped her wine, relishing its crisp taste, which helped her clear her head. Glancing around the room, she noticed the curious looks they were attracting. Without missing a beat, she looked at Draco and kissed his cheek and then his lips.
Draco tightened his grip around Hermione, pulling her closer to him as if the world around them had faded away. Just as he leaned in to kiss her, a deliberate clear of a throat shattered the moment.
"I hope I'm not interrupting anything," Theo said, a mischievous smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth as he leaned casually against the doorframe.
Draco shot him a glare, frustration lacing his voice. "Nott, you know damn well what you just interrupted." He could feel the heat of annoyance radiating off him as he instinctively tightened his hold on Hermione.
Hermione, sensing the tension, pulled back slightly and offered a reassuring smile. "Love, we have all night," she reminded him, her voice soothing as she lifted her glass of wine to her lips. As she took a sip, her eyes widened in surprise, the wine bursting with rich, complex flavours that danced delightfully on her tongue.
"Merlin's beard, Draco! Where did you get this?" she exclaimed, genuine astonishment lighting up her features as the exquisite taste enveloped her senses.
Draco, his earlier irritation at Theo's intrusion beginning to dissipate, couldn't help but bask in the joy reflected in Hermione's eyes. "That is from the berries we picked up—the ones you forgot about," he replied with a smirk, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he revelled in her delight over the wine he had chosen specifically for this moment.
"Oh, Draco, you got the vineyard to make it?" Hermione asked. He nodded his head at her. Draco's sharp cheekbones carved a striking silhouette against the soft glow of the afternoon sun, accentuating the angular lines of his face. His perfectly styled platinum blonde hair glistened like silver, each strand meticulously arranged to frame his features with an effortless elegance. As he spoke, his piercing grey eyes, reminiscent of stormy skies, bore an intensity that felt almost disarming, as if he could peer into her very thoughts.
"I must make it up to you," Hermione whispered into his ears when she got closer. She flicked out her tongue, licking his ear sensually, making all the blood go down south.
Draco's thoughts went to how Hermione could make it up to him, starting with her lips around his girth and then him slamming hard into her love spot and then finishing inside of her.
"Come on, Hermione!" Theo whined, his voice tinged with frustration. He had watched her with a mix of disbelief and amusement, noting how she had managed to catch Draco's attention. His gaze flickered to his best friend, who wore an expression that mirrored his thoughts—an unspoken understanding passed between them.
"Damn it, Theo," Hermione sighed, exasperation creeping into her tone. She stepped back from Draco, creating a noticeable distance between them, though her cheeks still carried a hint of colour. "Sorry, love," she said, throwing Theo a pointed glare that could slice through the stone. In an effort to reclaim her composure, she poured more of the exquisite berry wine into her glass, savouring the rich scent that wafted up, hoping it would dull the heat of the moment. The night felt alive around them, but in this instant, the tension between her friends was palpable.
"Nothing that can't be continued later," Draco responded, his tone dropping to a low, husky murmur that sent a subtle thrill through the air. Hermione shot him a playful elbow to the ribs, a gesture meant to be lighthearted, but she found it hard to suppress the smile spreading across her face. The warmth of their banter lingered between them, leaving a spark that suggested there was much more to explore in their conversation.
Draco gently led Hermione through the elegantly decorated ballroom. Students were scattered across the vast space, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of enchanted candles hovering above them. The air was filled with the delightful aroma of an exquisite feast, a tantalizing fusion of wizarding and Muggle cuisine that delighted every palate. Laughter and cheerful murmurs echoed as they mingled, sharing stories and indulging in the scrumptious treats.
As the lively music filled the atmosphere, Hermione found herself swept up in the rhythm. Before long, she and Draco were dancing effortlessly among their peers. The enchantment of the evening wrapped around them, drawing smiles and carefree joy from all corners of the room. Suddenly, Hermione felt a familiar sensation. Her wand, tucked securely in her pocket, began to glow faintly and vibrate against her leg, a clear sign that it was time for an important announcement.
Reluctantly disengaging from the dance, Hermione made her way to the front of the room. Her heart raced slightly as she took her wand in hand and raised it to her neck, her voice amplified by a subtle charm. "All students from fourth year, please return to your common rooms. I repeat all fourth years return to your common rooms. Have a good night."
The response was immediate. Her eyes widened in disappointment, and a chorus of low groans filled the room as many students glanced at her with pleading expressions, their cat-like gazes begging her to let them stay a little longer. Hermione shook her head gently, her resolve firm, as she pointed toward the exit. More moans followed, but she could only chuckle softly at their reactions.
As she made her way back to her friends, the warmth of their laughter surrounded her. She joined in, sharing stories and reminiscing about the light-hearted moments of the evening. The joyous atmosphere reminded her that while rules were important, it was the friendships and memories made that truly mattered.
After a lively two hours filled with laughter and music, she finally made her way back to the center of the bustling hall. With a graceful wave of her hand, she signalled for the fifth-year students to retire to their common rooms, allowing the sixth—and seventh-year students to enjoy their evenings of mingling and dancing.
The atmosphere was electric, filled with festive decorations that reflected the twinkling lights overhead. Draco stood off to the side, watching the scene unfold with a bemused expression. As he glanced towards the thick curtains that separated the main area from the more secluded corners of the hall, he couldn't help but notice some suggestive noises filtering through, soft and tantalizing.
He knew he should intervene to restore a sense of decorum, but the joy of the Christmas Ball hung in the air, intoxicating and vibrant, and tomorrow was Christmas Day. The revelry had a life of its own, and as he watched the couples twirl and sway, he found it impossible to bring himself to interrupt such a delightful moment. Instead, he leaned against the wall, letting the warmth of the festivities envelop him, caught in the magic of the night.
Draco had been observing Hermione throughout the evening, his thoughts spiralling in tandem with the weight pressing in his pocket. The flickering candlelight reflected in her eyes, illuminating the laughter that danced on her lips, and he felt an overwhelming urge to act. "Screw this!" he muttered to himself, determination flooding his veins. With a purposeful stride, he approached her, taking her by surprise as he pulled her close and captured her lips in a fervent kiss, wrapping his arms around her waist to draw her in tightly.
"Hermione, what's going on with you tonight? Not that I'm complaining, but you've been in an exceptionally good mood," she remarked, her brow raised in curiosity as they broke apart, her cheeks flushed a soft pink.
The blond wizard's smile widened, genuine and warm. "How could I not be in a good mood when I have the most beautiful witch by my side? You light up this entire room." His gaze lingered on her, taking in the way the soft glow from the decorations highlighted her features.
Hermione tilted her head slightly, bemused and a bit flustered. "But what about the holly and the berries and the bows and tinsel…? Shouldn't we be focused on the festivities?"
"Hermione," he said, his expression earnest as he gazed into her eyes. "Forget the holly, the berries, the bows, and the tinsel. The loveliest sight to me this season is you... I love you, Hermione Granger." With that heartfelt confession, he leaned in again, kissing her softly yet deeply, savouring the moment that felt so electric between them.
"Oh, the berries are mingling beautifully with the wine," Draco remarked, his eyes sparkling as he surveyed the festive decorations. "And look at the holly—it's draped elegantly around the chairs and bows, adding a lovely touch. The tinsel glitters on the stars that dangle from the ceiling, casting a soft shimmer across the room."
Hermione rolled her eyes playfully, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Draco... you absolute prat. I thought I had misplaced those decorations," she admitted, her voice laced with mock exasperation. Just as she spoke, Draco leaned in closer, capturing her lips with his in a passionate kiss that stole her breath away.
"I took care of everything, my love," he whispered, warmth radiating from his eyes. "Now... close your eyes."
Without a hint of hesitation, Hermione obeyed, her heart racing with curiosity and excitement. She could feel Draco's presence lingering close to her, but then, to her surprise, he began to pull away. As he did, she sensed the rush of gasps and the soft shuffles of feet around the room, heightening her anticipation. What on earth was Draco up to now? The mystery of his intentions danced tantalizingly at the edge of her mind, making her both anxious and eager to find out.
"Open your eyes, love," Draco uttered. Hermione opened her eyes to see Draco on one knee with a beautiful ring. The ring itself was gold with diamonds on the side, including one large rose-shaped diamond that wasn't large but perfect for the ring.
"Hermione Jean Granger, would you do me the extraordinary honour of becoming my wife?"
Hermione's breath caught in her throat as she gazed down at Draco, his silver eyes shining with hope and vulnerability. The soft candlelight flickered around them, casting a warm glow on his pale features. Her heart raced, and for a moment, she was transported back to their Hogwarts days, remembering how far they had come.
"Draco, I..." she began, her voice trembling with emotion. Tears welled up in her eyes as she reached out to touch his face gently. "Yes. Yes, of course, I will!"
As he slipped the ring onto her finger, a radiant smile broke across Draco's face. The ring fits perfectly, as if it had been made for her alone. He rose to his feet and pulled her into a passionate embrace, their lips meeting in a kiss that spoke of years of love, trust, and understanding.
As they parted, Hermione looked down at the ring, admiring how the rose-shaped diamond caught the light. "It's beautiful," she whispered.
"Not nearly as beautiful as you," Draco replied, his voice thick with emotion. I've been carrying the ring for weeks now. I never had the time to ask you, or you were too busy with classwork and planning this ball."
The other students and peers erupted into cheers and claps; some hooted and congratulated them on the engagement.
Hermione blushed at the scene and glanced up at Draco, who looked down at her with more love in his eyes.
"I love you."
"And I do, too," Hermione said, grinning. Theo, bring forth the present for me?"
Theo chuckled as he walked over to them with a box. "Good luck, mate." He said with a wink.
Draco tore into the wrapping paper with an eagerness that surprised even him. His normally composed demeanour melted away like snow in the sun. His grey eyes sparkled with curiosity and excitement as he uncovered a beautifully polished stick, smooth and intricately carved, gleaming under the light. Alongside it, a piece of parchment lay folded, its edges crisp and inviting.
It was a stick and a piece of paper.
"Read it out." Hermione grinned again.
"I'm pregnant." Draco read out loud, his voice cracking slightly. His eyes widened as the words sank in. "You're... we're..."
Hermione nodded, her smile softening. "We're going to have a baby, Draco."
For a moment, he stood frozen, the stick and paper trembling in his hands. Then, without warning, he let out a joyous laugh and swept Hermione into his arms, spinning her around the room. The others cheered again at the joyful news.
"Merry Christmas, Draco!"
The End
A/N- The end of this one-shot. It was a lot shorter, but I decided to edit this one-shot more and make it better and longer. I do hope you enjoyed reading this story again. Until next time!
Now, I have a question. Leave the answer in a review or PM me instead.
I'm re-editing Caught Spying. Should I replace the chapters in the old version or start a new story that is better than the first one?
Please help!