You are viewing a story from harrypotterfanfiction.com View Online Chicago, Illinois, USA- 1 day before reunion Some may think that 5 years is too short of a time for a reunion, but not Hermione Granger. She has been both looking forward and dreading this day since she got the message from Hogwarts in the mail. Dear Miss Hermione Granger, You are cordially invited to the class of 1998 five year reunion on May 22, 2003 located at the Great Hall of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry at 7 pm. Hope to see you there. From, Headmistress Minerva McGonagall “Hogwarts always know how to find me, even when I disappear without anyone knowing for two years.” Hermione thought to herself after reading the letter. That was three months ago, and now that the big night is tomorrow, she started to freak out. “How will my friends react when I come back? Will they be mad?” Questions like these always popped inside her head, but the questions that haunted her most was always about of them. “How is he?” “Does he miss me?” “Is he still with her?” Hermione had no idea what was going to happen at the reunion, let alone the rest of the summer back at the place she used to call home for so long. No one knew where Hermione had disappeared to until she got a letter from her best friend Ginny after a year of Hermione’s disappearance. Dearest Hermione, I forgive you for leaving, but if you don’t get your ass down here for my wedding I will never forgive you! Love, Ginny At first Hermione was only planning on going back for the wedding in August, but after getting the letter from Headmistress McGonagall, she was stuck being back for the whole summer. After many letters, phone calls, and many times Hermione wanted to pull the curls right out of her light brown hair, everything was ready for Hermione’s arrival back, all she had to do was pack her stuff and go…but was Hermione ready? Consumed with thoughts of seeing everyone again, Hermione didn’t realize what time it was. “Oh crap, I’m gonna be late for the plane, Ginny is going to kill me!” as Hermione grabbed her suitcase, ran to her car and drove off to the airport not knowing what was waiting for her summer back. ~*~*~*~*~*~ Malfoy Manor, Wiltshire, England- 1 day before reunion Dear Mr. Draco Malfoy and Blaise Zabini, You are cordially invited to the class of 1998 five year reunion on May 22, 2003 located at the Great Hall of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry at 7 pm. Hope to see you there. From, Headmistress Minerva McGonagall “You know Draco, if you read the same letter for a certain amount of time, it doesn’t change what’s on the letter. Try all you want, but it’s not gonna work mate.” Said a laughing Blaise Zabini watching his best friend pace back and forth starring at the letter they received in the mail 3 months ago. “Oh shut up Blaise.” Draco snarled still pacing. “What’s wrong with you anyways? You look like a nervous 1st year waiting to be called to the sorting hat; it’s just a 5 year reunion for heaven’s sake!” “Ya, it’s a 5 year reunion, so that means we’re gonna see EVERYONE!” and with a confused look from his best friend, Draco ran through his fingers through his blonde hair that was blocking his silver eyes and explained to his confused friend, “Parkinson is gonna be there.” “Why are you worrying about Pansy? You’re engaged to the gorgeous Astoria Greengrass.” Blaise asked. “That’s my point. She’s gonna kill me when she finds out the one I’m engaged to isn’t her.” And with that Blaise let out a loud laugh that even the house elves in the kitchen could hear. When Draco first met Astoria Greengrass through her older sister Daphne Greengrass, who was in his grade, he never would have pictured himself in a relationship with her, let alone engaged, but here he was today. “And what about you Blaise, I bet Daphne is excited to see you tomorrow night. Whatever happened to you guys? I thought you guys were meant to be?” Draco asked with a huge smirk on his face trying not to laugh. “The only reason why we got together in the first place was because you and Astoria got together and once you lovebirds got engaged Daphne thought we should too so I ended it.” “Aw, not ready for commitment are we? You guys would have made such a cute married couple.” Draco joked as Blaise got up to hit him in the arm. “The only thing that is stopping me from hexing your sorry little ass is that you’re my best friend.” “And also the fact that you’re living in my house, I could kick your sorry little ass out any moment.” Draco added. “Aw, that’s true. But you know Astoria would be mad if you did that. She is too good for your own kind mate.” “Ya, but that’s one thing I love about her.” Draco said with a big grin on his face as they both laughed. Once the laughter calmed down, and the pacing has long stopped Draco got to thinking, “I wonder how everyone will be tomorrow night. I mean, it does gonna be weird seeing everyone again, to see how much they’ve changed in the past five years.” “Ya, but I bet not everyone has changed. Like… Granger, I bet she’s still the fuzzy haired bookworm who world revolves around Potter and those stupid Weasleys...if she even shows up tomorrow.” Blaise said. “Ugh, Weasley and Granger, you knew those two were bound to be together someday…what do you mean if she shows up tomorrow?” Draco said. “Oh you didn’t hear?” “Hear what?” Draco asked confused. “Two weeks before Granger and Weasley were about to get married, Granger suddenly called off the engagement and disappeared. No one has seen her in two years, not even Potter, Weasley is now with Lavender Brown.” . “Granger and Weasley never got married? And Granger has been missing for about two years? Well who would have thunk. Do you know why she called off the engagement?” Draco asked. “No, but I bet she had some commitment problems, or she finally realized what kind of family she was getting herself into.” Blaise said. “Granger afraid of commitment? Never.” Draco thought to himself. “Do you think she’ll show up to the reunion tomorrow?” Draco couldn’t help but ask. “I’m not sure, there’s even been a rumor going around that on the day of the wedding, Granger killed herself, but if that’s true, that’s one filthy little mudblood we don’t have to worry about seeing, isn’t it?” Blaise said in relief. “Ya I guess.” Draco said feeling somewhat bad agreeing with his friend as the front door opened to a tall woman with black wavy hair carrying shopping bags. “What are two of the most important men in my life talking about?” Astoria asked while dropping her shopping bags to give Draco a small peck on the lips. “Astoria love, Draco was threatening me to kick me out again.” “Draco, why would you do that? You know the manor wouldn’t be as entertaining if Blaise didn’t live with us.” Astoria giggled as she went to give Blaise a hug. “He was threatening to hex me!” Draco said in defense. “Draco, what did you say this time?” Astoria said as Blaise smiled in triumph. “Nothing, I was just telling him about how excited Daphne is again to see her Blaisey-poo after so long.” Draco said snuggling up to his fiancé. “Aw Blaise, you know Daphne has been dying to see you since you guys broke up, she tells me every time we get together. Why did you guys break up anyways?” and hearing that, Blaise groaned and it was Draco’s turn to grin in triumph. “Now, do you guys have what you’re wearing tomorrow night?” “No…” the boys both groaned. “Well come on, it’s a good thing I went shopping today.” And Astoria grabbed both Draco’s and Blaise’s hands and headed up the stairs. As Astoria forced the boys to try on outfit after outfit, Draco couldn’t stop repeating one fact in his head but couldn’t figure out why, “Granger and Weasley never got married.” ~*~*~*~*~*~ So what do you think?? It's my first story so please be nice :D. All characters belong to J.K. Rowling, I only own the plot... so enjoy and review! London- Later on that day After hours of wishing she would have used magic to get to London, Hermione Granger had finally reached her destination safe but tired, and you could tell she was tired. Going on the plane Hermione’s medium length light brown curly hair was resting on her shoulders, but by the time she finally reached London later on that night, it was pulled back into a low messy bun with strands of curls coming out at every angle as the natural make-up on her face was smeared by rubbing her eyes from exhaustion. It’s a good thing Hermione and Ginny was as close as they are, with the way Hermione looked and felt, she would be surprised if Ginny recognized her best friend. Good thing she did. “Hermione!” Getting a good look at her best friend, she noticed that Ginny Weasely hasn’t changed a bit. She still had the same beautiful long red hair that had a slight curl to it resting on her small shoulders. She still had the same blue daring eyes, just like her brother. She still had the same simple but adorable sense of style, and she still had the same bright smile that could easily be turned in a frown if you got on her nerves like her family tended to do. “Ginny, it’s been too long!” Hermione said trying to hold back her tears as she wrapped her arms around her best friend once she reached her. It really has been too long. Once they let go, through tears Ginny said, “Hermione Jean Granger, don’t you ever disappear like that ever again! Do you know how long it took me to find where you were?” “I’m sorry Gin, but I think I had a pretty good reason. Do you still forgive me?” Hermione asked with the biggest puppy dog face she could come with, and of course it worked cause the next thing Hermione knew, Ginny’s once angry face turned into a smile, “Of course I forgive you! And you’re here now, right? Unless you learned somewhere in America how to clone yourself.” “Nope, I’ve shockingly lived in America as a muggle for the past two years…with the exception of some moments.” Hermione told herself proudly with a small smile showing on her face. “Good, cause I don’t want a clone for a maid of honor, would I?” Ginny said with a laugh. “Wait, you want me as your maid of honor?” Hermione was shocked. “Of course I want you as my maid of honor, you’re my best friend and the closest thing I have to a sister!” Ginny said excited. “I don’t know what to say, yes I would love to, I would be honored!” Hermione said trying not to show Ginny how excited she was. “So who’s Harry’s best man?” Hermione asked once she finally calmed down. “Well Ron of course.” And with the sound of his name coming out of Ginny’s mouth, her mind was filled with only depressing thoughts of him and what happened between them two long years ago. “Oh Hermione, I’m sorry. My brother is a complete dim-wit for losing a sexy catch like yourself.” Ginny said trying to cheer her up. “No, I’m fine really I am. Ron is Harry’s best guy friend, so of course Harry would choose Ron as his best man.” Hermione tried to reassure not only her best friend, but herself. After a few moments of both girls being quiet, Hermione realized something. “Speaking of the groom, where is Harry anyways? Is he waiting outside?” Hermione said looking around for her guy best friend. “No, by the time I left, he was still at work, but he’ll be home by the time we get to the apartment.” Ginny answered. “Oh, but he knows that I’m coming right?” “Not exactly…” “Ginny!” “What? Wouldn’t it be a great surprise to see his best friend back from the dead for his wedding let alone the reunion?” Ginny said with a slight smirk on her face. “Back from the dead, what do you mean? And who did Harry think was gonna be your maid of honor?” “Well Fleur of course, since she’s pretty much the only other girl in the family other than Mum.” Ginny replied ignoring the whole ‘back from the dead question. “But what if Harry is mad at me for leaving? I could be dead for all he knows! I made sure that no one could find where I was, even though a certain someone found where I was anyways, but still! No communication at all for two years and then all of the sudden I come back like the past two years never happened? He’s gonna freak! And I’m sleeping there at your place for the whole summer! What if he hates me Gin?” “Hun, you know Harry, he’s not gonna hate you. He’s gonna be glad as heck that you’re back let alone alive. He’s missed you, as well as Ro….” “No Ron doesn’t Gin. As long as he has that stupid….” Before she could go on she saw the expression that fell on her best friend’s face. “Look Gin, I’m sorry, that was out of line.” Hermione said in an apologetic tone. “No, it’s ok. I’m sorry as well. I know it’s been hard on ya, if it wasn’t, you wouldn’t have left for America.” That time both Ginny and Hermione couldn’t help but smile. “Now how about we take a trip to Hogsmeade to clean you up cause no offence hun, but you look horrible.” Ginny said nudging her friend. “Ya, that sounds like a really good idea.” “Speaking of which, what are you wearing tomorrow night?” Ginny asked curiously. “Oh, just pair of nice jeans and a blouse.” “Oh hun, that definitely will not do. You’d think after living in America for two years, your fashion sense would improve. Hermione Jean Granger, some things about you never change.” As the two girls walked out the airport together once again. ~*~*~*~*~*~ Hogsmeade- Later on that day “How is it that all of the shirts I made you try on today you ended up hating?” a tired and slightly annoyed Astoria Greengrass told her annoyed fiancé as they sat down to get some butterbeers at Hog’s Head Pub. “No offence love, but all of them are ugly and I would never wear them. Blaise laughed at every single one of them.” Draco said exhausted. “It’s Blaise for heaven’s sake though. He laughs at everything.” Astoria argued. “And how is that all the ones I tried on were ugly and all the ones he tried on were perfect on him?” Draco argued back. “I don’t know Draco, Blaise has a simple taste in clothes so he chose one easily, unlike a certain someone.” “Because unlike him, I actually want to look good at the reunion, show everyone in my class that I’m actually somewhat successful at life.” Draco said half jokingly. “Draco Lucius Malfoy, you are successful, don’t let anyone think you aren’t.” Astoria said reaching to his had sitting which is curled in a fist. “Ya the only thing I’m successful in is finding a hot fiancé.” Draco said grabbing her hand as Astoria felt a slight blush on her cheeks. “Can you really not come to the reunion? I really wanna show off my hot fiancé… and maybe you can help calm down Pansy before she claws my eyes out.” Draco continued shuttering the thought of seeing Pansy Parkison again. “Yes, I’m sorry but I’ve been planning this get together with the girls longer than your reunion, I just can’t cancel on them now cause someone is scared of one little Pansy.” Astoria laughed as Draco groaned letting go of Astoria’s hand to take a drink out of his butterbeer. Seconds later Draco found that Astoria was deep into a conversation either about what happened at work or what her friend did this one time, but whatever it was Draco didn’t care because his attention was on who was walking through the door. “Red hair…that must be the youngest Weasly, but who’s with her?” Draco thought to himself. As he looked harder and harder at the mysterious girl with Weasley, he started to notice traits that are familiar to a certain witch in Draco’s past. The same curly light brown hair, the same walk. “Could it be?” “Two weeks before Granger and Weasley were about to get married, Granger suddenly called off the engagement and disappeared. No one has seen her in two years, not even Potter.” The same body figure. “No it couldn’t.” “…there’s even been a rumor going around that on the day of the wedding, Granger killed herself…” “Could it?” “Draco, are you still there?” “Oh, I’m sorry, spaced off a little. What were you talking about?” he asked trying to get his attention back to Astoria. “I was just asking if you would think it was a good idea to have the wedding during the winter, you think that’s a good idea?” She said with a slight smile. “Oh ya, that would be great.” Draco said quickly. It was a good thing Astoria is dense as she is, cause right after Draco said that, she started to blab on about why winter would be the best season for their wedding as Draco’s attention trailed off once again back to the two girls who were now sitting only a few tables away from them, butterbeers in hand, shopping bags next to their chairs, and the mysterious girl’s face facing away from him. All Draco could see was her brown curls as memories of the same witch filled his mind. All those years of Draco being mean to her, all leading to this? Will Draco ever get a chance to talk to her, to say sorry for being such a jerk to her for so long, or will her disappearance two years ago mark the end of what never begun. “What am I thinking? Why did she come to mind when I’m sitting here, happily engaged to the love of my life?” But every time he tried shaking the thoughts out of his head, the thoughts would come back, stronger than before. The way she always knew the answer to every question in every class. “What would have happened if I was never mean to her and actually tried to be her friend?” The way she always had a comeback to my stupid comments. “Would she have resorted back to that stupid Weasley?” The sounds of her laugh filling the room she was in. “Would she have ended the engagement and disappeared for two years if the one she was engaged to was me?” The look of hurt in her eyes when I called her a “mudblood”. “How did she really feel when I called her that? How much did my words really hurt her?” Draco never meant to hurt her like he did. It was just a label given because of her blood. Mudblood or fullblood, Hermione Granger was, and he would never admit it to his friends, the smartest witch in his class. And he definitely would never admit to his friends that she was the prettiest witch in their class. Ever since year one, ever since he first laid eyes on her brown eyes, he’s watched her from afar, keeping up his reputation by showing cruelty to her and her friends (he honestly liked bugging Potter and especially Weasely). Over the years he watched her magical talents grow, he watched her hair go from fuzzy and frizzy to soft and elegant, and he watched her love for stupid Weasley grow as her hate for Draco grow as well. “I guess I’ll never know.” Draco whispered to himself. “Never know what Draco?” And Draco was brought back to reality. “Oh nothing, are you ready to go?” Draco asked. “Ya, don’t want Blaise waiting. You know what he does when he gets bored for too long.” Astoria giggled as she got out of her chair. As Draco followed his fiancé out the door, he looked back at the two witches, hoping that the mysterious girl would turn and look at him once, but she never did. “Come on dear.” “I knew it wasn’t her.” Draco said under his breath. But what Draco didn’t realize as he walked out a pair of brown eyes got up to go to the restroom to see a head of bleach blonde hair walking out of Hog’s Head Pub. “Isn’t that?” She thought to herself as she walked away in disbelief. **Wahoo for Chapter 2!!! So what do u guys think??? Once again, I do not own anything other than the plot... and I hope you enjoyed it!!! Oh... if anyone would like to make a banner for "Her Reason to Stay" or who is willing to tell me how to make one.. please send me a message! The Banners on other people's stories look a-freakin-wesome and now I want one for my story! See you guys in chapter 3! ~kitty_kat9211** "Harry I'm home! Could you come her for a moment?" a tired Ginny called to her fiance, Hermione following behind her." “What if he really does hate me?” Hermione thought to herself as she could feel her heart beat faster and faster with every moment waiting for her friend. After a few moments of what felt like the whole neighborhood could hear her heart racing, around the corner came the all famous Harry Potter she knew almost her whole life in a pair of tan shorts and a black t-shirt, typical Harry eh? He must have just took a shower because his black hair was all wet messy as his bangs were moved slightly enough that you could still see the scar on his forehead that got him famous in the first place. Holding the cup that Hermione gave him for his birthday a few years back, Harry noticed that his fiancé was holding suitcases, wondering why she was holding them. “What’s with the suitcases, do we have a…” and before Harry could finish his sentence, he realized who was standing next to her wondering if it was a ghost he was looking at. “Hello Harr…” and in a split moment before Hermione could finish her sentence let alone blink, the birthday cup was on the ground spilling its contents as Hermione felt the smell of Harry’s same shampoo he’s always used as he hugged his friend back from the dead. Some things never change. “You’re alive.” Was all he could say when he finally let go of Hermione. “Of course I am Harry, why wouldn’t I be?” she couldn’t help but smile. “But you left without even a note, and you never wrote to me while you were gone, or called me, anything to let me know you were ok, so of course I thought you were dead.” “So that’s where the whole ‘back from the dead’ thing came from’.” Hermione thought to herself. “You didn’t see the letters me and Gin wrote?” Hermione asked as Ginny tried to stop quickly tried to stop her before it was too late. Unfortunately, Ginny was too late. “Ginny you knew she was ok…and you guys wrote letters to each other?” Harry said looking at his fiancé. “Hey you don’t know how long it took me to find her… and unlike you guys who gave up quickly, I searched and searched for her until I finally found her. Hermione whatever you used to hide yourself was genius.” Ginny said ignoring the evil glare she got from Harry. “Ya, but apparently it wasn’t genius enough to get past you. You’re truly a great witch my friend.” Hermione said with a smile. “Ya Hermione, why don’t you tell me what spell you used so I can get away from this one called my fiancé.” Harry said jokingly glaring at Ginny again. “Sorry Harry, my little secret.” Hermione said as the three laughed. “I’m sorry babe, I wanted to surprise you with an early wedding gift, and I did. So do you forgive me?” Ginny said using a familiar puppy dog face Hermione used earlier, and of course, it worked as Harry’s frown turned into a smile. “Well I guess I’ll have to forgive you.” As Ginny ran into his arms for a hug making Hermione miss the warmth of being in the arms of the one you loved causing tears to form in her eyes. But before she could ever let the tears come out, Hermione shook the thoughts out of her head and asked, “So who else thought I was dead Harry?” “Everyone. It first started out as just a rumor but with time, people actually started to believe it, especially Ron.” Harry answered. “Ron did?” Hermione was shocked. “Ya, for weeks he locked himself inside of his room never coming out. He was a total mess until….” “Harry stop.” Ginny elbowed her fiancé as Harry noticed tears rolling down his best friend’s cheeks. “Hermione, I’m sorry. Do you want to go catch a drink or something?” Harry said trying to cheer her up. “Oh no, I’m fine. I think I’m just gonna get some rest. Long plane ride and big day tomorrow right?” Hermione tried saying with a forced smile. “Alright, do you want me to help you with your suitcases?” Harry asked. "No, it’s fine. You should get some rest too, it’s late and you’ve probably had a stressful day at work and besides, Ginny’s already got you beat.” Hermione said pointing to Ginny already walking to the guest room with Hermione’s suitcases dragging behind her. “Hah, well goodnight Hermione, see you tomorrow?” Harry said just now noticing the spilled cup on the floor. “See you tomorrow Harry.” Hermione said as she started to walk off following Ginny. “Oh, Hermione?” “Yes?” “Welcome back.” Harry said with a smile. “Good to be back.” Hermione said this time with a real smile on her face and then walked off to her room. Tomorrow is gonna be a big day, and not just for Hermione. The Next Day—Reunion Day 5:30 pm “Hermione Jean Granger, if you don’t get your little ass out of that bathroom I’m gonna have to knock down this door and drag you out myself!” It was finally the day of the reunion and Hermione was in the bathroom putting on the dress Ginny bought her the night before just hours before the reunion. “Why can’t I just wear my jeans and blouse? This dress is way too much, it looks like I’m getting ready for the Yule Ball all over again.” Hermione thought to herself finishing the last touch on the dress before looking in the mirror. “Yep, this is definitely way too much for a reunion.” Hermione told herself in the mirror. But looking closer at herself in the mirror she noticed how the dress actually complimented her small body frame. How the white fabric hugged her curves before flowing out to the ground. How only one shoulder was covered in fabric and how the dress had a slit that was thigh high Hermione couldn’t believe that Ginny actually bought it for her to wear, in front of people. For once in her life Hermione Granger actually felt beautiful, and her hair and make-up wasn’t even ready. “You’d think after living in America for two years, your fashion sense would improve.” In America, Hermione did see clothes just like this dress sitting in store windows screaming at her to buy them, but she never did. She never thought that her out of all people would look beautiful in any of these clothes, but looking at herself again in this gorgeous white dress that looked like it was specifically made just for her, she kinda wished that she found this out earlier. Like back in Hogwarts, then maybe she would have attracted people like Draco Malfoy instead of Ron Weasely who ended up hurting her in the end. Wait, why was she thinking of her arch enemy at a time like this? Was Malfoy really the man she saw last night in Hogsmeade? She couldn’t think of anyone else who had white bleach hair like he did other than his father. Was Malfoy one of the ones who thought I’ve been dead for the past two years? Will Malfoy even be there tonight at the reunion, but then quickly erased that thought from her brain. “Nah, Malfoy thinks he’s too cool for events like these.” Hermione thought to herself as she laughed to herself. “What are you laughing about, are you gonna come out or not, remember, I still need to get ready too!” a slightly annoyed Ginny yelled again. “All right Hermione, are you ready to show yourself?” She asked herself to the mirror. And with a few more moments to really look at herself, Hermione walked to the door, opened the door and walked out to her friend who looked more than ready for tonight. “And you call that not ready?” Hermione said looking at her best friend. Ginny was wearing a black tight dress that cut short a couple inches from her knees as the dress cut down to a v showing of a little cleavage. Her long red hair was pulled back in a high bun, bangs poofed up and her make-up consisted of carefully drawn eyeliner on her eye lids, pink blush on her cheeks to bring out the rosiness, and bright red lipstick to bring out her daring bright blue eyes. If Ginny wasn’t engaged to Harry, one, she wouldn’t be going to the reunion (since she’s a year younger) but if she was, she would definitely be the talk of the party. “What I had to get you out of there somehow, what did you do, get lost in the dress?” “Haha Gin, you’re funny. But really, this is way too much for a reunion. It’s not like we’re going to the Yule Ball or something, I mean look at me!” Hermione said grabbing the fabric. “Ya, and you’re hot! I really don’t know how all the boys tonight are gonna keep your hands off ya, especially once I’m done with your hair and make-up!” and before she could detest, Ginny already had taken Hermione’s hand and they were on our way to Ginny’s room. 6:50 pm By the time Ginny had finished with Hermione, they were running late. Fortunately, Harry didn’t mind. He was long ready before the girls, all he had to do was shower, change into his black suit with a white dress shirt under the jacket as well as a blue tie, rearrange his hair to make it look somewhat presentable and he was all ready to go. The whole time the girls were getting ready, Harry found himself starring at his fiancé in awe. He was there when she bought it, he picked out the dress himself, but seeing her all dressed up like this, he couldn’t believe that they were about to be married in less than three months. And now after two years of thinking his best friend was dead, there she was getting ready like she never disappeared, and in time for the wedding… Harry really felt like he was the happiest man alive at that moment. But then he got to thinking, Ron doesn’t know that Hermione is coming tonight, let alone that she’s alive… what will Ron think when she randomly shows up tonight? Will Ron be there with Lavender Brown? Harry felt his stomach turn thinking about how he will react, let alone how everyone else will when Hermione makes her first appearance back. Harry suddenly felt nervous for tonight’s event as the girls hurried out of the main bedroom quickly putting on their heels. “So Harry, how does she look?” Ginny asked. “You look amazing.” Harry said still looking at Ginny. “Aw thanks, but I’m not talking about me, I’m talking about Hermione!” Ginny said as she could feel her face get as red as her lipstick. Finally taking his eyes off of his gorgeous fiancé, he noticed that Hermione’s once frizzy hair was calmed down into elegant curls resting on her shoulders. Her make-up, unlike Ginny’s which was bold and daring was natural as it brought out her brown eyes. “Beautiful.” Harry said as Hermione’s face flushed a little with embarrassment. “You don’t look so bad yourself. It’s weird seeing you in a normal tux than the dress robes back at Hogwarts.” Hermione said with a grin. “And I’m glad that McGonagall isn’t making us wear those to the reunion.” Harry said as both Harry and Hermione laughed while Ginny looked at her watch. “Oh bloody hell, it’s 7:05, we’re late!” Ginny was definitely a Weasley, even if she sometimes didn’t like admitting it. “How are we getting there?” Hermione asked in confusion. “Man Hermione, you’ve lived too long as a muggle.” Ginny said holding out her hand. Once Hermione took it, a moment later, she found herself not standing in front of the door to the apartment, but she found herself standing in front of the great doors of the Great Hall. She was at Hogwarts again, the place where she spent most of her life learning more than a witch could learn, and not just about magic. Was she ready to open that door? Was she ready to see the faces of her classmates staring at her? What if she ran into Ron? Did he bring Lavender Brown as his date? What would she say if he tried talking to her? “Hermione, you coming?” Ginny asked with a worried look on her face. “Oh ya. You guys go ahead. I’ll be there in a bit.” Hermione said trying to breathe. “Alright, we’ll meet you in there.” Ginny said taking Harry’s hand as they opened the doors and walked in. After a few moments that felt like forever of Hermione breathing in and out trying to calm her heart down, she felt like she had to walk in sooner or later, so she grabbed the door handle and with one last deep breath opened the door she whispered, “Just breathe.” ~*~*~*~*~*~ Hogwarts: Great Hall 6:45 pm “Draco, what are you looking at?” Blaise asked Draco. “Oh, just the decorations. Hogwarts, as always, has really outdone themselves this time.” And of course, he was right. The long tables that have been seated by Hogwarts students of the past and future were all gone replaced by about ten or fifteen round tables following the edges of the wall leaving plenty of room for people to stand around and talk or dance. Where there were usually candles floating in the air above everyone hung black banners with huge H’s representing Hogwarts. Close to the front of the Great hall was where the DJ was located and to the side was a long table filled with a never ending supply of food where Draco and Blaise were standing. It was like the Yule Ball all over again, minus the snow and the huge Christmas tree was replaced by a huge banner reading, “WELCOME BACK CLASS OF 1998!!!” “Ya sure, I bet you were looking out for Ms. Parkison.” Blaise laughed as Draco just smiled in agreement. “You’re right, I am looking for a certain someone, just not the one you’re thinking of.” Draco thought to himself. Ever since he saw those familiar brown curls the night before at Hogsmeade, he couldn’t get her out of his head and he hoped, just hoped, that his prediction was right and the rumors of her death were wrong. Crabbe and Goyle soon joined Draco and Blaise of course, with their attention on the food. Draco really felt like the gang was getting back together, all they needed left was… “DRAAAAKKKKIIIIEEEE!” and the next thing Draco, one Pansy Parkinson was hugging him causing everyone to stare. “God Parkison, are you trying to cause a scene?” he said throwing her off him as Blaise let out a small giggle. “But Drakie, it’s been so long since we’ve seen each other, I missed you so much! Let me get a good look at you!” Pansy said already checking him out. After what seemed like hours looking and trying on dress shirts, Draco finally found an outfit that was both up to Draco’s and Astoria’s standards. Draco was wearing gray dress pants and a light blue dress shirt with a white stripe in the middle. Even though Astoria wanted Draco to wear a tie like a gentleman would and after plenty of arguments between the couple, they both compromised with a grayish, bluish bow tie that Draco of course, let it hang on his shoulders instead of tying it up, of course with Astoria not knowing. His mess of a head of bleach white hair was nicely combed letting his bangs drop on his forehead right above his right eye. If Draco didn’t know better, he’d be the best looking guy at the reunion, let alone couple if Astoria was with him. But she wasn’t, and he was stuck dealing with telling Pansy Parkison about their engagement by himself. “You look great Drakie. Now tell me how I look.” Pansy asked. “Typical Parkison, thinks the world revolves around her.” Draco thought to himself getting a good look at his annoying and clingy ex. Pansy was wearing a tight black dress that could easily be mistaken for a shirt it was cut so short. Her once medium length brown hair had grown long over the years and was hanging down to the middle of her back. Looking at her face, the girl who barley wore any make up in their school years was now wearing so much make-up he barely could have recognized her if it wasn’t for her clingy annoying attitude. “You look… great.” Draco said as a huge smile formed on Pansy’s face. “Awe thanks. Oh hey Blaise.” She said finally noticing Blaise. “Good to see you too Pansy.” Blaise said as she quickly hugged him. As Pansy and Blaise got into a conversation about who knows what, Draco looked across the room to see a familiar head of red hair. Ron Weasely was wearing black dress pants with a white dress shirt and a black tie under a light blue jacket. Maybe it wasn’t a good idea to wear the light blue shirt in the end after being disgusted to know that they were matching a little. “Who was he talking to? Well listening to I guess.”Draco thought to himself as he looked to see a long haired blonde clinging to his arm which he soon recognized as Lavender Brown. “What’s Weasley doing with her?” He thought as Draco got a good look at her. Lavender Brown was wearing a dark blue dress that went just above her knees with white tights to cover her skinny pale legs. On the upper part of the dress lied white lace and crazy white flowers with a strand of pearls under it. Her usual crazy curly hair was now in long waves and even though her hair style has changed, Lavender still has those ridiculously big headbands in her hair, a big dark blue bow in this case to match the dress. The only thing that isn’t dark blue or white on her body was the bright red shoes on her feet and her big bulky red floral purse in her hand. “Aw cute, they match.” Draco sarcastically said to himself. But why? “No one has seen her in two years, not even Potter, and Weasley is now with Lavender Brown.” That would explain it. What would Hermione think if she saw them together? Wait, she won’t even be here, all that I know, Hermione could be dead. Wait, why am I calling Granger by her first name? As Draco tried to figure out what was going on in his brain he noticed two people walk up to Weasely and Lavender. “It’s about time that Potter got here.” Draco thought to himself looking at his watch seeing that it was 7:06. The red head next to Potter who was hugging Weasely must be Little Weasely which reminded him of what happened last night making him wonder. “Was that girl just a friend of Little Weasely? Was I really wrong?” Draco thought to himself disappointed. Consumed of thoughts of that night in Hogesmeade, Draco didn’t realize that everyone in the Great Hall had become completely silent until Blaise was the first one to speak. “Well, well, well, look who decided to come back from the dead.” As Draco shifted his attention to what everyone was looking he almost had to stop his jaw from dropping. Those same brown curls as at Hogesmeade… “Isn’t that….Granger?” Pansy asked. “Yes it is.” Blaise said as a small grin formed on Draco’s face. **Yea! Reunion time!! What do you guys think?? please review (all reviews help!) and I hope you guys enjoy!!** ~kittykat9211 “Damn she got hot! Who knew she was hiding such a nice body under those robes for all these years.” Blaise said still looking at Hermione now surrounded by a bunch of her friends. “She’s not hot, she looks disgusting.” Pansy said of course jealous of the attention Hermione was getting. “And you think what you’re wearing is any better Parkison.” Draco found himself sticking up for Hermione. “You think that stupid little mudblood looks better than me? What are you talking about Drakie, I thought you loved me and after tonight, we’d finally get together once and for all?” “Yes, oh and I’m officially engaged to Astoria Greengrass so will you stop already with your stupid little feelings for me.” and with that, she let out a small cry as she walked as fast as her short tight dress could let her so she could go cry and complain to her Slytherin friends. “Well she took it pretty well, didn’t she?” Blaise said sarcastically as Draco ignored him looking for a certain girl in a white dress. Even though Hermione was standing in the middle of a huge group of her old Gryffindor friends, Draco could easily pick out which one was her. He couldn’t believe what he was looking at. During their 4th year, Draco thought Hermione was cute in her pink dress she wore as she took the dance floor with Vicktor Krum, but looking at the Hermione Granger now, with her white dress that looked liked it was made for her and only her and her elegant curls that were more elegant than the night before, Hermione has changed from the frizzy haired Gryffindor that he “hated” throughout their time at Hogwarts, to beautiful woman. “Well I know what my goal is for tonight.” Blaise said interrupting Draco’s thoughts. “What?” Draco asked confused about what he just said. “Before the night ends, I’m gonna get a date with Granger, she won’t know how to resist me.” Blaise said with confidence. Draco couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Blaise asking Hermione Granger out? She’s way smarter than that to say yes to a guy like Blaise Zabini. “…that’s one filthy little mudblood we don’t have to worry about seeing, isn’t it?” “Wasn’t this the same guy who just called her a ‘filthy little mudblood’ the day before and now he’s got his heart set on asking her out? Not if I can help it.” But as Draco thought more and more about it, reality set back in. Hermione is single (from what he knows), Blaise is single, and Draco is ENGAGED. What would Blaise think if Draco tried stopped him from going out with Potter’s best friend? Speaking of Potter’s friend, quickly taking his glance off of Hermione, Draco glanced to where Weasely and Potter were standing. Shocked, that’s the expression on Weasley’s face, as well as many other guys here tonight (except Potter). As Lavender, Potter and Little Weasely tried to get his attention, Weasely’s eyes were only on Hermione. If Draco didn’t know any better, it looks like Weasely is about to go attack Hermione at any moment. “Good job Potter and Little Weasley for standing there waiting to stop him. Wait, first I started Granger by her first name, and now I’m telling Potter good job? What the hell is wrong with me?” As Draco switched his view from Weasely to Lavender Brown, he noticed that by the look on her face, Lavender didn’t look too happy to see the return of Hermione as she watched Weasely look at a different girl. “What would Hermione think to know that her ex is here with someone else but starring at her? Does she even know that Weasely is even here?” Draco thought to himself. Whatever the case is, even though Draco probably wouldn’t get the chance to talk to her tonight, in an instant, Hermione could once again disappear for another 2 years or Draco would wake up and realize this was all just a dream, Draco stood there watching Hermione hoping, just hoping that he wouldn’t wake up from this dream. ~*~*~*~*~*~ “I can’t believe Ron is staring at me. He thinks I can’t feel it, but I can definitely feel it.” Hermione thought to herself as she felt his blue eyes out of almost everyone staring at her. Getting a glimpse away from the friends surrounding her she got a good chance at Ron which shocked him to know that Hermione was looking at him. “He looks pale, more pale than usual. And skinnier, his face looks like the life has been sucked out of it.” She thought to herself. “…for weeks he locked himself inside of his room never coming out. He was a total mess until….” When Harry said that did he mean that he didn’t come out of his room not even to eat… that’s not like Ronald, he loves food and if he misses out even an afternoon snack, he freaks out. “Ron Weasley, you’re such an idiot.” Hermione whispered. “Who’s an idiot?” Luna Lovegood asked looking at her with curious eyes. Luna always could hear what Hermione was saying, even at a whisper. “Oh it’s nothing Luna.” Hermione tried to say with a smile, and as usual, accepted it and moved on to drop into someone else’s business. “Why am I worrying about Ron when I have so many friends surrounding me?” Hermione thought to herself as she looked around to her friends. “So many people I haven’t seen in so long.” Hermione thought to herself. Her Gryffindor girl friends and even friends who were in the D.A were standing around her. Looking around her friends she realized how much she really missed being home. America was great and all, but she’s only spent two years out of the twenty three years of her life in America, while she spent the other twenty one year’s either at home with her parents or at Hogwarts. After this summer, could she leave America and come home? In the beginning, Hermione planned on staying just until the wedding and then go back to America, but seeing her friends again and realizing just how much she has missed the magic world, she’s not so sure anymore. Where would she go, back to that apartment? In all honesty, Hermione never wanted to leave home. By getting engaged to Ron, Hermione thought that she would settle down, buy a house, have little smart babies who would go to Hogwarts and become great witches and wizards. She never even thought that everything that has happened to her happened forcing her to leave for America only to come back because of a class reunion and a wedding (she knew since her 6th year that Harry and Ginny would get married). But this decision just can’t be made in one night; this decision needs to be planned out. What would happen to her apartment in America, what about the bookstore? Could Craig run it by himself without her or would Hermione have to sell it? She’s worked so hard to get it to where it is now; all that work just so it could rot because she misses her hometown. Not a good enough reason to leave everything she’s worked for these past two years. That’s what she needs, a reason. And it has to be big enough of a reason to make her drop everything and come back home. But what could it be, Hermione had no idea. But even though Hermione liked her life as a muggle in America, she hoped, just hoped that she could find that one reason to make her stay. **Wahoo for chapter 4!!!! I know i don't have much Draco/Hermione moments... but don't worry... they will be coming soon... but until then i still hope you guys enjoy my story.. and review!! all reviews and comments are welcome.. but please... be nice :D thank you and see you in chapter 5!! ~kitty_kat9211** As the night progressed on, Hermione Granger was starting to get restless. Throughout the night Hermione had to answer the same questions to everyone who appeared in front of her. “Where have you been for the past two years?” “What ever happened to you and Ron, and why is he with Lavender Brown?” and Hermione’s favorite, “When did you get so hot?” a Ravenclaw asked her. She gave him a weird look and walked up to Harry and Ginny sitting at a table, after finally escaping from Ron and Lavender. As Hermione got closer to the couple, she noticed that Harry had his head down in his arms as Ginny was rubbing his back. “Is everything alright over here?” Hermione asked once she reached them. “Not really, it’s Ron.” Harry said putting his head up, his face looking both angry and stressed. “Ugh, what did Ronald say to piss you off Harry?” Hermione said, pulling up a chair. “Are you sure you wanna hear this?” Harry said aware of the last time he mentioned anything about Ron. “Yes, of course. I have spent the whole night answering people’s questions about where I’ve been and trying to avoid boys who think I’m hot.” “See? I knew you’d be the talk of the party!” Ginny said excited as Hermione blushed a little. “So what did Ronald do this time?” Ginny asked her attention back to Harry. “He’s freaked out that you’re here Hermione.” Harry said. Just breathe. Hermione instantly thought to herself as she heard those words come out of Harry’s mouth. “What do you mean?” Hermione tried to say as calmly as she could. Of course, both Harry and Ginny noticed the tone in her voice. “As you know already, Ron was one of the many who thought you died, so seeing you tonight, he doesn’t know what to feel about it.” Ginny answered. Typical Ronald. “Yeah, and he’s been letting out all his mixed emotions on me for the whole night. I’ve literally had to stop Ron multiple times before he went running to you. I’m telling you he’s like a little school girl.” Harry said rubbing the bridge of his nose. “And what does Lavender think of this?” Hermione couldn’t help but ask. “I had to get her away from Ron before she started punching someone, you know how Lavender gets when she’s upset, but I did hear something I thought I never would hear.” Ginny said not only getting the subject away from Ron but also sparking Hermione’s interest. “And what is that?” as Harry’s head fell back on the table onto his folded arms. “Lavender told me for whatever reason—I think that she thinks we’re friends or something—that she heard from her friend who heard from a friend who overheard a certain Pansy Parkinson bawling to her friends that Malfoy is engaged. She’s upset cause the one Malfoy really loves is her and he’s really hiding his feelings for her. Typical Pansy right?” Ginny said. “Wait Malfoy is engaged…to whom?” Hermione asked surprised. “Astoria Greengrass.” “Daphne Greengrass’s little sister?” ‘Yeah, that’s who set them up apparently… Malfoy actually got engaged, who would of thought?” Ginny said back to rubbing Harry’s back. Draco Malfoy…engaged? Hermione knew that would happen sooner or later, and even though Draco was the Golden Trio’s arch enemy throughout their time at Hogwarts, and Hermione would never admit this out loud, but Draco was the most attractive boy in their class. Yes, Ron was cute in a kind of a nerdy way, but Draco was totally different. When Hermione looked at Ron she felt at home and safe—at least she used to—but when she looked at Draco, she felt a sense of thrill when he entered a room. With one look from Draco’s deep silver eyes, Hermione felt instantly embarrassed, and watching how he moved, even when his movements sometimes were to cause pain to Hermione and her friends, made Hermione’s heart to skip a beat. Looking around to see if Draco was here tonight, she instantly found him standing by the food table looking right at her. She turned her head quickly back embarrassed. Was Malfoy really looking at me? Hermione thought to herself, right away telling herself that he wasn’t. He never did back at Hogwarts, the only time when he called her “mudblood.” What would make him change now? With thoughts of Draco Malfoy running through her head, someone in a grey suit with a white dress shirt and a grey tie came up to her. “Hello, Hermione.” A shocked Ginny was staring right at one Blaise Zabini as Harry’s head was now up watching what would happen. Hermione? Hermione thought to herself. He would have normally called her Granger, if not ignore her unless he was making fun of her. “Um, hi, Blaise. What brings you over here?” Hermione asked preparing herself for the reason Blaise was standing in front of her. “I’m over here to talk to you of course. Hi Harry, Ginny. Congrats on your wedding. Draco, Astoria and I will be attending.” Blaise said to Harry and Ginny with a smile, of course shocking them even more. “Thanks, I’ll see you guys there.” Harry said his guard up. Focusing his attention back on Hermione, Blaise then said something that shocked the group even more, “I was actually wondering if you wanted to dance.” Hermione couldn’t figure out whether she was more shocked or confused. She looked to where Ron was standing. He was also in shock, looking from Hermione to Blaise as he stood with Lavender talking to Seamus Finnigan, she quickly got up and said, “Blaise, I would love to dance with you,” as Ginny’s and Harry’s jaws dropped and Blaise let out a grin. “Great.” Blaise said reaching his hand out to Hermione. “Hermione, what are you doing?” Ginny asked. “I really don’t know, but I’ll tell you about it after.” Hermione said not really knowing what she was doing. “Be careful.” Ginny mouthed as Hermione nodded and took Blaise’s hand to the dance floor moving around the other couples dancing to a calm slow song. Great… a slow song. “I’m warning you right now that I haven’t set foot on a dance floor since the Yule ball 4th year, so I’m sorry if I step on your toes.” Hermione admitted. “It’s alright, just follow my lead.” Blaise said confidently, and that’s just what Hermione did tightening her grip in Blaise’s hand. “Wow Blaise, who knew you could dance? What would your Slytherin friends think?” Hermione said joking. “I’ve been able to dance way before the Yule Ball; I just never wanted them to find out. But after seeing you enter the hall tonight, I just had to get a chance to dance with you.” Blaise said causing Hermione’s cheeks to flush with embarrassment. “You, Blaise Zabini, Slytherin and best friend to Draco Malfoy wanted to dance with me?” Hermione asked in disbelief. “Yeah, I did, and now I am, weird how things work out like that.” Blaise joked which caused Hermione to smile and giggle. Who knew Blaise Zabini had a sense of humor. “See? Look, you’re smiling. I like your smile.” Blaise said once again causing Hermione’s cheeks to flush. “So when are you gonna ask the question?” Hermione said trying not to show her embarrassment after that comment. “I already did, unless in the past couple years the meaning of dancing has changed and I wasn’t aware of it.” Blaise said as Hermione laughed. “No, I meant where I’ve been for the past two years. Or why Ronald and I never got married.” Hermione said getting the answer she has told everyone who’s asked before. “Who cares?” Blaise answered. “Excuse me?” Hermione was confused. “Who cares if you disappeared for two years, who cares about that stupid Weasley…? No offence, love. You’re here tonight right?” Blaise asked. “Yeah.” Hermione said still a little confused. “Well then, that’s all that matters.” Blaise said. Hermione couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Throughout the whole night, she hoped and prayed that someone, out of all the people she talked to, didn’t care about where she was these past two years, and was just glad she came back. Hermione had never thought that it would be Blaise Zabini. Before long, the song ended, and a more upbeat song came up. Before Hermione could pull away and tell him thank you for the dance, Blaise pulled her closer to him. “I feel like I never got to get to know you when we were at Hogwarts.” Blaise said. “Well you were too busy making fun of me.” Hermione couldn’t help but say. “Good point, but that was in the past, and I want to get to know you, everything about you. Tell me like we were friends during our Hogwarts years instead of enemies.” “But that’s seven years of information; do you know how long that will take?” Hermione asked. “Well then, it’s a god thing we have all night.” Blaise said as the two continued to slow dance to an upbeat song. **Wahoo for chapter 5!! This is when it starts to get interesting... what do you guys think of the Hermione/Blaise pairing?? Thank you so much for reading, every review helps. i'll see you guys in chapter 6!!** “Bloody hell, how many songs are they going to dance to?” Ron asked sitting at the same table Harry and Ginny had been sitting at since Hermione left to dance with Blaise Zabini. “However long she wants, Ron. She’s a free woman; she can do whatever she wants.” Harry said once again rubbing the bridge of his nose, annoyed with Ron. “Blaise Zabini though, out of all the guys she chooses Blaise Zabini. It’s the whole Vicktor Krum thing all over again!” Ron said. “And look who you’re with. Lavender Brown, really?” Ginny said as Ron glanced over at his current girlfriend talking to her friends about who knows what. “Are Harry and I the only ones who know what really happened two years ago or did you finally tell Mum and Dad?” Ginny asked, annoyed even more with her brother. “No Ginny, Mum and Dad still don’t know.” “It’s been two bloody years Ron! What’s gonna happen when they find out, especially now that Hermione is back for the summer?” “She’s back for the summer?” “So not my point. My point is that she’s been your best friend since year one and not just to you, to Harry as well. You guys are supposed to be the all famous ‘Golden Trio’. And she’s also like the sister I never had and like a daughter to Mum and Dad, so of course they’re gonna think something is up. What did you tell them the reason was anyways?” Ginny asked. “I told them that Hermione got cold feet at the last minute, canceled it and moved away.” Ron answered knowing what Ginny’s reaction would be. “Ronald!” she shouted and pushed him so hard she almost knocked him out of his seat. “And what about the rumors of Hermione being dead? Mum and Dad must have heard them sooner or later.” Ginny asked, curious to hear what her brother had to say. “When they asked, I just said that Hermione has been busy with her new job and that it was just a rumor anyways.” “A rumor that even you believed! No wonder Mum and Dad were so happy that you moved on and found someone new, even if it is Lavender Brown!” “What was I suppose to say Gin?” “Oh I don’t know, maybe the truth?! For your sake I hope they find out. For your sake Ronald, I hope that karma comes back and hits you so hard in the ass, you wouldn’t be able to sit for another two years!” and with that Ginny got up and went to find something to drink, she couldn’t stand to look at her brother anymore. “Girls, gotta love them right?” Ron asked Harry who was till now completely silent as the siblings argued. “She has valid points though.” Harry said. “You’re taking her side?” Ron couldn’t believe it. “She’s my fiancé, Ron, and all night I’ve heard you talk non-stop about Hermione even with Lavender standing right there. I’m sick of it, and I’m sick of watching you throw your life away.” Harry said. “I already got a lecture from your precious fiancé, I really don’t need one from you too!” and then Ron got up and left leaving Harry alone at the table. “Where are we going Won-Won?” Lavender asked as Ron grabbed her hand pulling her away from her friends. “Out of here.” Ron said walking out of the great hall. ~*~*~*~*~*~ What only seemed like minutes, lasted hours as Hermione danced and talked about life with Blaise Zabini. She told him almost everything from her childhood living as a muggle with her parents to the grand opening of her bookstore back in America. And shockingly, he actually listened, only interrupting when he was confused about something or asked a question, but other than that he listened. And he never looked dazed or bored like Ronald did but looked like he was interested in what Hermione had to say. Blaise always had a way to surprise her. Hermione didn’t even notice let alone care that Ronald had left just a few hours ago. Hermione was wrapped up in her conversation. Before Hermione could finish her conversation though, the once dark great hall was filled with lights as Mistress McGonagall announced, “This marks the end of the Class of 1998 five year reunion. I hope everyone had fun seeing each other again and have a safe trip home.” “How long have we been dancing?” Hermione asked not wanting the night to be over. “I don’t know actually.” Blaise said letting go of Hermione. “But I was the only one talking this whole time; I never got to hear your side of the story.” Hermione said disappointed. “Well about that…” Blaise started to say. “What is it Blaise?” “I was wondering if you would actually go on a date with me tomorrow, dinner perhaps… I know this great little place in London. That will give us a chance to eat and a chance for you to hear my story.” Blaise asked, a little embarrassed. “I would love that.” Hermione answered right away. It’d been two long years since Hermione had seen anyone and she hadn’t been on a date in even longer. Even though it was a guy she never thought of saying yes to, had he asked her when they were still in school… but things had changed since then, and here she was agreeing to his offer. Maybe coming back was a good idea. Hermione thought to herself as they switched information to each other about the next night. “Well then, I’ll pick you up around 7?” “Alright, I’ll see you then. Thank you for the wonderful dance.” Hermione said blushing. “And to you as well.” Blaise said with a smile before they went their separate ways. “Hermione Jean Granger, explain everything!” a curious Ginny asked as Hermione reached Harry and Ginny waiting for her so they could go back to the apartment. Harry’s headache had gotten worse since the fight with Ron. “Um, I have a date tomorrow.” And with that, the reunion that Hermione had dreaded had finally ended. ~*~*~*~*~* Malfoy Manor, Wiltshire, England- The Next Day 6:30 pm “How many people do we want to invite to the wedding? Do we want just our family and our close friends, or do we want our friends, family, and add a few of our old classmates? Remember we have to make sure we invite the Weasleys; they invited us to their wedding. The nicest thing to do is to also invite them to ours.” Astoria said to Draco in the main dining room of the mansion. After spending her whole Sunday doing nothing, Astoria—knowing she wouldn’t be leaving the mansion tonight—was still in her pajamas: one of Draco’s gray v-necks and a pair of black short shorts. Her long black hair was pulled into a ponytail. Draco was sitting facing her at the dinner table in a white cotton shirt and a pair of baggy jeans that were held up by a black belt around his waist. His white blond hair wasn’t combed and lay on his forehead. The only one who would be leaving the house tonight was Blaise, and he was getting ready upstairs before his big dinner date with Hermione Granger. I can’t believe Hermione actually said yes to him. Draco thought to himself still not believing it. The night before at the reunion, Draco watched Blaise walk over to where Hermione was and watched as Hermione took Blaise’s hand and followed him to the dance floor. He watched her giggle at whatever Blaise was saying; he watched Blaise pull Hermione closer to him; he even watched Ron Weasley leave the reunion early with Lavender Brown. He watched them dance together song after song after song until the reunion finally ended. That’s all Draco ever did and will ever be able to do. Just watch Hermione Granger from afar, and thinking about his destined fate with Hermione Granger pissed Draco off more than usual. ~*~*~*~*~*~ “I did it! I got a date with Hermione!” Blaise said as the boys got home, Astoria still not home from her get-together with the girls. “Hermione? When did you start calling Granger Hermione?” Draco asked. “Since I talked to her while dancing.” Blaise said. “Wow, just one dance and you’re already on a first name basis. Wasn’t she a filthy little mudblood just the day before?” Draco asked. “Yeah, but it was one hell of a dance my friend.” Blaise couldn’t help but say with a smile. “Oh really, so what happened then?” Draco asked. “We talked and she told me things about her life. She told me stuff like her favorite authors, life as a muggle with her parents. Oh, did you know she opened a bookstore in America and is now one of the biggest selling book stores in Chicago?” “No, I actually didn’t. Wait, I’m confused. You’re acting like you actually like Granger. Granger… You know, best friend of Potter and Weasley, who we hate and have hated since Hogwarts?” Draco said hoping he was right, but the look on Blaise’s face showed that he was wrong, very wrong. “I don’t know what happened Draco, and yeah the only reason why I asked her to dance was cause when she was gone she got totally hot, but dancing with her, getting to know her even just a little, I think I really am starting to like her.” “But you don’t do relationships. You don’t like commitment. You have sex with a girl until you get bored with her and then leave as fast as you can, you’re even worse than I ever was.” Draco said. “Yeah, and you were like that before you met Astoria Greengrass. What if Hermione Granger is my Astoria?” Draco couldn’t believe what he was saying, but he couldn’t help but ask. “I’m going to bed.” Draco finally said and went upstairs to his room before Blaise said something that could cause someone or something to get hurt. ~*~*~*~*~*~ “Draco. Draco? Are you listening to me Draco?” Draco snapped out of thoughts of last night and saw his fiancé leaning so close to his face he could have kissed her without moving his head. “What are you thinking about that makes you not listen to what I’m saying, Draco? I’m trying to plan our wedding.” Astoria asked him. “It’s nothing. Now what were we talking about?” Astoria was smarter than Draco took her for, but she knew Draco well enough that if she asked, Draco would just ignore her and avoid the topic, whatever the cost was, so she learned just to not ask. What happened last night at the reunion? Astoria thought to herself. “I have a date with Hermione Granger tonight. I need your help finding an outfit, Astoria.” Blaise had asked Astoria this morning when they were eating breakfast. Now Astoria of course knew of the rumor that went around about Hermione Granger being dead after her failed engagement to Ron Weasley, and to be honest, couldn’t help but also believe the rumor herself, so she was surprised to hear that she had come back, let alone have a date with Blaise. Looking back at Draco, Astoria was shocked at his facial expression. Astoria knew exactly what Draco was thinking when he looked like that; she’d seen it on Draco’s face back when they were still in Hogwarts. He was angry… and not because she was the “filthy little mudblood”, but because it was Hermione Granger. What’s gonna happen between us now that she’s back, Draco? Astoria thought to herself. “Alright, how do I look?” Blaise said coming down to the room, saving Draco from having to avoid explaining anything to Astoria. Blaise Zabini was in light blue jeans, black converse and a black coat with a white t-shirt. “Is this alright for dinner or is this too casual?” Blaise asked, fidgeting with his coat. “You look great Blaise; Hermione won’t know how to keep her hands off you.” “Now Astoria, remember it’s only the first date.” “Isn’t that when you usually have sex with the girl anyways?” Draco abruptly asked. “Draco!” “It’s alright Astoria, and he’s actually right. But not this time, not with this one.” Blaise said checking his watch. “Crap it’s already 6:45. Gotta go, wish me luck!” and before either of them could say anything he was already out the door. “Dra…” but before Astoria could even ask him what the hell was up with him, Draco was already out of his chair, gone. ~*~*~*~*~*~ London, Harry and Ginny’s Apartment “Ginny! What time is it?” Hermione yelled almost running out of the bathroom. While Ginny and Harry were still in their pajamas after a day of relaxing, Hermione came down the stairs in an outfit her mother bought her before she left America. She was wearing a white dress shirt with light blue strips that was loose over her small body with an unbuttoned black vest over it, and a pair of white shorts with black heels. Just like the night before, Ginny once again helped Hermione with her hair and make-up, but this time Hermione’s curls were in small waves, almost straight and her make-up was natural, bringing out the gold in Hermione’s brown eyes. “Is this too casual for dinner?” she asked but the doorbell rang before anyone could answer her. “That must be him!” Hermione said practically running to the door, calming herself down before opening the door. “Hi, Blaise.” Hermione said with a smile, noticing that he was dressed as casual as she was. “Hi Hermione, you look great. You ready to go?” “Thanks, you don’t look too bad yourself. And yes.” And with a quick goodbye to Ginny and Harry, she was off, hoping that this date wouldn’t be the last. **Wahoo for chpt 6! I would like to say thank you to everyone who has already summited a review.. you guys all rock my socks off.. just sayin... but yea... Let me know what you guys think... review (every review helps) and i'll see you guys in chapt 7!! ~kittykat9211** London 2 months until wedding “Finally.” Hermione said. It’d been a month since Hermione Granger had been back for the summer and her first date with Blaise Zabini. Since then, the pair had been going on dates once or twice a week. “Chicago looks awesome, all of America does. I wish I could go there.” Blaise told Hermione during their last date. “So why don’t you go? I would love to show you around Chicago, it truly is beautiful.” Hermione said. “Before I can go anywhere I have to pay back what I owe Draco and Astoria, especially Draco. He’s helped me pay for things like bills and fines that I owe the Ministry from getting in so much trouble… he’s really been a good friend to me. He’s even letting me live in his house, since I got kicked out of my apartment because I couldn’t pay the rent. Even though he tells me that I owe him nothing, I still want to pay him back every cent.” Blaise answered. Who knew Malfoy had such a heart, or one at all. Hermione thought to herself. The next thing Hermione knew, she was at a muggle bookstore in London holding a couple of picture books of Chicago in her hands. Then she moved on to the literature section for a light summer read. Yes, Harry’s and Ginny’s apartment had a smallish library, but it had nothing that Hermione enjoyed. As Hermione was flipping through Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen Hermione heard a familiar voice behind her. “Oh my socks, is that Hermione Granger?” and turning around, her prediction was right. Red short curly hair, clothes made by herself, and a shocking stack of books in her hands…it was indeed Mrs. Molly Weasley. “Mrs. Weasley, what brings you here?” Hermione asked shocked to see her in a muggle bookstore. “Deary, for the millionth time, please call me Molly. And you think just because I’m an old witch doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy a good read?” Molly said. “Oh no, I just was wondering why you were in a muggle bookstore. There are plenty of bookstores in Diagon Alley.” Hermione said. “Yes, but the ones in Diagon Alley don’t sell the classics like they do here.” She likes the classics, who knew? Hermione thought to herself. “The question is what brings you back, how long has it been, two years now?” Molly asked. “I’m only back for the reunion and for the wedding.” Hermione answered. “That means you’re here for the whole summer, oh goodie! What are you doing right now? You should come back to the house and have some tea so we can catch up.” “Oh well, I was just going to get some books and then go back to the apartment.” “Well, that sounds boring, come to the house. Everyone is off doing their own thing today and I don’t want to be alone.” “Alright I guess.” Hermione said now knowing that Ron wouldn’t be home. “Alright then, I’ll see you at my house in a jiffy!” and before Hermione could say anything, Molly Weasley was gone. “I guess my free reading books will have to wait until later.” Hermione whispered to herself walking to the cash register. The Burrow, Devon, England 2:30 pm Knock! Knock! Knock! “Come in!” “Mrs.… I mean Molly?” Hermione asked walking through the door of the place where she spent most of her Christmas and summer holidays not too long ago. “I’m in the kitchen deary. Why don’t you take a seat in the living room and I’ll be out soon with the tea.” Molly yelled out. “Alright.” Hermione called out as she found her way to the living room. Heh, messy as usual. Hermione thought as she had to find her way to her favorite armchair she used to always sit in when she visited the Burrow. After a few minutes of waiting and remembering the both good and bad memories she spent with Ron, Harry, Ginny and the rest of the Weasleys at the Burrow, Molly finally came out with their tea. “Sorry about the wait deary, who knew making tea the muggle way would be so complicated?” Molly said passing Hermione a cup. “Thank you.” Hermione said carefully taking a sip, not just because it was hot, but because she was afraid of what it would taste like. “So what have you been up to since I last saw you. Ron has told me that you have a new job, is that right?” Ron told her that? How did he know? Hermione thought to herself. “Yes, I do. I actually started up my own bookstore in Chicago.” Hermione answered as Molly’s face lit up. “You have your own bookstore, Hermione that’s wonderful!” Molly always was the type to be easily impressed. “Yes. One of the top bookstores in Chicago actually.” Hermione said proudly. “Really? I’m so proud of you. Who’s running it right now when you’re gone?” Molly then asked. “Oh, my parents are actually. They decided to take a break from traveling to stay for the summer look after my apartment and the store.” Hermione answered suddenly missing her parents for a moment. “That is something your parents would do. How are they anyway? Still dentists are they?” Molly asked. “Yes they are, but their building is actually being remodeled this summer, so running the bookstore came perfect timing. I actually talked to them last night. They are doing well, and the store isn’t a mess…yet. Would you like me to tell them hello for you the next time I speak with them?” Hermione asked. “Oh yes please.” Molly said taking a sip from her tea. “And what about your love life my dear?” “Excuse me?” Hermione said almost choking on her tea about to spill all over her dress. “Your love life, you must have found someone with your good looks these past two years, even when you almost spill tea all over yourself.” Molly said making fun of Hermione. “Oh no, I’m not with anyone.” Hermione said trying to picture how Molly Weasley would react if she told her that she’d been dating Blaise Zabini. “Oh, well you’re both gorgeous and smart; you’ll find someone sooner or later.” Molly said. After a few moments where the only noise in the room was the ladies sipping their tea, Molly said, “As you probably noticed at the reunion, Ron is with Lavender Brown.” “Yes, I did notice that.” Hermione said remembering the pair together that night and shuddering. “She’s not my choice for Ron, especially comparing her to you, but if Ron is happy, I guess I’ll be happy as well.” Wait, she’s happy that Ron is together with Lavender. It’s like she doesn’t even know what happened two years ago. Hermione thought to herself. “Oh, and guess what we just found out?” Molly said getting excited. “And what is that?” Hermione said nervously. “Lavender is pregnant!” “What?!” Hermione was shocked as she felt tears forming in the back of her eyes. “I know, we just found out last week after her doctor’s appointment.” “How far along is she?” Hermione dared to ask. “The doctor said about four weeks. Even though I wished they would have gotten married before…oh no Hermione, I am so sorry!” “For what?” “You and Ron were about to be married and now here I am telling you that he’s going to be the father of another woman’s baby. I know that for whatever reason you two broke up, it was a valid reason. And it happened so long ago, but still, hearing this type of news must be hard for you Hermione, and hearing it from an old lady like me? I truly am sorry.” Molly said now putting her hand over Hermione’s. Before Hermione could answer Molly, they heard a knock on the door as Molly yelled that they could come in. No, hold them in Hermione. Hermione thought to herself as she felt the tears trying to fall. Right away she recognized the person walking into the living room. Bleach blonde hair, silver deep eyes that made her heart skip a beat… “How may I help you Mr. Malfoy?” ~*~*~*~*~*~ **Wahoo for Chpt 7!!! I have been excited to put up this chapter because this chapter is the start of (in my opinion) an epic and very important part :).. ok so it's not that epic but it's a long awaited Draco/Hermione moment!! I know I haven't put up much Draco/Hermione moments... but i hope you will be satisfied with this one! But anyways, back to Chpt 7...what do you guys think? Every review helps!!! So i hope you enjoy this chapter, review maybe... and ill see you guys in Chpt 8!! ~kittykat9211** Malfoy Manor, Wiltshire, England “Draco, will you please stop by the Weasley’s to drop off their invitation?” Astoria asked once Draco finally dragged himself out of bed around one in the afternoon. “Why can’t you do it, you know how much I hate going to the Burrow or even looking at the Weasleys.” Draco said moaning at the fact he might see Ron. It might be hard for him going to the Burrow without punching him in the face. “I have to work, Draco, you know this already.” “On a Saturday?” “I’m filling in for a co-worker, we’ve been through this.” “Why can’t you do it after work?” Draco said thinking of every excuse he could use. “After work I have an appointment with the wedding planner. You really don’t listen, do you?” Astoria said already annoyed. “Ugh, why can’t Blaise just do it? He’s not doing anything today.” “Blaise isn’t the one getting married, you are. Just give it to them before I get home tonight ok? Oh and don’t cause a scene while you’re there Draco.” And before Draco could give her another excuse, Astoria was already out the door and Draco was stuck with the dreaded task before him. Walking back to his room to change, Draco walked past a sleeping Blaise in his bedroom. Blaise isn’t the one getting married, you are. What would Draco feel if Blaise and Hermione got married? Wouldn’t we be just a happy family...Astoria and I, Blaise and Hermione, all four of us living in this one house. Just the thought of that made Draco want to punch someone in the face. And besides, they haven't been even dating for that long. Ever since she came back into his life the night of the reunion Hermione Granger was always on Draco’s mind. Try as he might to get those thoughts out of his head and back to Astoria, it never worked and the thoughts of Hermione always came creeping back. It also didn’t help that the man that Hermione had a current “relationship” with lived down the hall from his room. Blaise gets to see Hermione once sometimes even twice a week while I haven’t seen her in a month. Draco thought to himself as he slipped from his pajamas to light jeans and a white and navy blue baseball shirt. What do those two do or talk about to still be going on multiple dates? Draco thought to himself. Could it be they… and before he could finish that thought he quickly shook it out of his head. If that’s not the reason, then what is it? Draco honestly couldn’t think of the answer. By the time Draco got out of the house, it was already 2:30 and Blaise was still sound asleep in his room. Walking up to the Burrow Draco had his plan of action already planned out. Just get in, give them the invitation and get the hell out of there hopefully avoiding Ron Weasley. Oh how Draco would love to give Weasley a piece of his mind. Lavender Brown really? What does Weasley’s mom think of the couple anyway? New questions concerning Hermione always formed in Draco’s head, but they all lead to one certain and important question. What really happened between them two years ago? When Draco finally reached the door he was ready to get this over with and move on to much more important things than inviting the stupid Weasleys to their wedding. Knock! Knock! Knock! “Come in!” Mrs. Weasley called as Draco opened the door and walked through. Let’s get this over with. But who he was about to see around the corner when he reached Molly Weasley made him think twice about the last comment he made. “How may I help you Mr. Malfoy?” Sitting next to Molly Weasley was the one person he was truly dying to see again with tears in her eyes and Mrs. Weasley’s hand on top of hers. Tears? Why are there tears in her eyes? Draco thought with concern. “I’m sorry Molly, but I must be getting going.” Hermione suddenly spoke, spooking everyone in the room. “Already deary?” Mrs. Weasley said letting go of her hand as Hermione got up out of the arm chair. “Yes, Ginny and Harry are probably wondering where I am. Thank you for the tea again.” “Oh you’re very welcome. You are always welcome in this house, remember that Hermione. I am sorry again.” Sorry? Why is she apologizing? Draco thought. “I will. Have a good day.” Hermione said walking out of the door, Draco once again losing his chance to talk to her. As Hermione walked past Draco to get to the door, Draco heard a faint whisper come out of Hermione’s mouth. It wasn’t loud, but no mistake it was there. “Hello Draco.” was all she said and walked out the door. “And what is it you want deary?” Mrs. Weasley asked Draco once Hermione left. Totally forgetting the reason why he was at the Burrow to begin with, Draco turned around and was out the door following Hermione as Mrs. Weasley was left picking up the tea. “Granger.” No answer. “Granger.” Still she continued to walk away from him. “Granger!” still no answer and Draco was starting to get annoyed. “HERMIONE!” this got her attention as she turned and faced him. “What Malfoy?” Hermione said wiping tears away from her eyes. You’ve got her attention now, Draco, don’t screw this up. He thought to himself thinking about what to say to her. “Well, what is it? I don’t have time for this.” And before Hermione could turn away from him again, Draco yelled, “Where have you been for the past two years?” Oh God Draco. Draco thought to himself right after the question came out. “Why did you break of the engagement with Weasley? Were you afraid of commitment or something or did you finally understand what kind of family you were getting yourself into?” What the hell are you thinking you idiot! You finally, after I don’t know how long, get a chance to talk to her, alone especially, and you blew it! He thought to himself, but he found himself continuing, but now much worse. “Or, were you scared? Scared and not ready to be a Weasley… am I right Granger?” Hermione never answered Draco, but the look in Hermione’s eyes gave Draco a great pain in his heart, as if someone had stabbed him multiple times. The look in Hermione’s eyes, the look Draco himself caused, looked more painful than it ever did when Draco called her a mudblood. “Hermione I...” but before he could finish his sentence he noticed two figures moving closer and closer to them. One was tall and had red messy hair. The other was a little shorter and had long curly hair with a huge headband… “Take my hand.” Draco found himself saying holding his hand out to her. “No, are you crazy?” “Take my hand, Hermione.” “Stop calling me that!” “Really Granger, why are you so stubborn!” Draco said as Ron and Lavender were getting closer and closer. “And why should I?” God what if she doesn’t take my hand? What’s gonna happen when they catch up to us? Looking behind Hermione, Draco knew that at any moment Weasley and his stupid girlfriend would catch up to them if Draco didn’t do something now. “You’ll thank me later for this.” As Draco quickly grabbed Hermione’s hand and right at their touch, they disappeared away from the Burrow. But seconds before they fully disappeared, Hermione turned her head just in time to see Ronald holding hands with a pregnant Lavender Brown right in front of her. “What is it Won-Won?” Lavender asked as Ron bent down to pick something on the ground once they walked up to the Burrow. “You are cordially invited to the wedding of Astoria Greengrass and Draco Malfoy December 13, 2003” “It’s a wedding invitation.” ~*~*~*~*~*~ **Wahoo for Chpt 7!! And Wahoo finally for a Draco/Hermione moment! So... was it worth the wait?? Review and tell me what you think! See you guys in Chpt 8... bye bye for now! ~kitty_kat9211** “Let go of me!” Hermione yelled ripping her hand away from Draco’s tight grip. “Where are we?” Hermione asked realizing they weren’t at the Burrow anymore. “A hillside close to my house I found when I was a kid. I used to come here all the time to get away from my parents or even read sometimes.” “Draco Malfoy actually reads?” Hermione said giving Draco a look of disbelief. “Believe it or not Granger, but I do.” After a few moments of silence, Hermione said, “It is beautiful.” Hermione said looking out in amazement at the yellow flowers covering miles and miles of hills. For the first time since she came back, Hermione felt calm and at peace, like for a moment she could forget about everything that was going on and just relax. But then what Molly told her just kept creeping back into her mind. “Lavender is pregnant!” Just thinking about those three words made tears well up in her eyes, especially seeing them back at the Burrow. But she couldn’t let them fall, especially in front of Draco Malfoy; he would definitely make fun of her. Wait, did Draco know Ron was headed towards us? Is that why… “Take my hand Hermione.” How her heart beat like crazy when he called her by her first name. “Yeah it is beautiful.” Draco said, but Draco wasn’t looking at the view. How Draco wished they could stay at the hillside forever. How Draco wished she would call him by his first name again. “Hello Draco.” Just hearing her whisper his name made his heart skip a beat. He wanted her to say it again. Hell, he wanted Hermione to yell it out to the world. But that was wishful thinking, wasn’t it? Then what brought Draco and Hermione here right now? It sure wasn’t wishful thinking; it was Draco grabbing Hermione’s hand just in time. Why did I bring her here though? Draco thought to himself. Draco had never taken anyone to this hillside, not even Astoria, so why did he take Hermione out of all people? That didn’t matter right now. What mattered was that they are here, together, and Draco had something he needed to say. “Hermi… Granger I…” “Do you wanna know why I disappeared for two years?” Hermione said interrupting him. Hermione never turned to face Draco; she never even turned her head to look at him. She just stayed where she was; she just kept her eyes straight forward looking at the yellow flowers in front of her. Hermione didn’t know why she found herself telling him the reason, it was Draco Malfoy for heaven’s sake, her enemy throughout her time at Hogwarts, but here she was. I guess someone should know the truth…might as well be him. She thought to herself waiting for a rude comment. When it never came, Hermione took a deep breath and started to speak. “I disappeared because I couldn’t stand to walk around anywhere and hear whispers about me. I disappeared because I was sick of calling all the guests to tell them a stupid excuse to why there wasn’t going to be a wedding anymore. I disappeared because I thought Ginny and Harry were getting sick of having an extra roommate. But really, I disappeared because I couldn’t stand the thought of those two together, happy when I was a mess. So I left for two years, I started a successful bookstore and started a new life as a muggle. But then I got the invitation to Ginny’s wedding and then the reunion and was forced to come back. And to be honest, I was scared, but I was ready. After two years I thought I was ready to come back, and now that I’m here, I realize how much I truly miss it here. This is my home… the place where I grew up, met my closest friends… I would love to stay here but I need a reason. A big one too… a big enough reason for me to drop everything I have in America and come home but…” Hermione had to stop because she felt the tears coming, and didn’t care anymore. “But… seeing them together at the reunion, happy... all the thoughts of me being ready were all shattered once I saw them together. And now I find out from Molly that Lavender is pregnant! The woman who ruined my future as a Weasley, the woman who forced me to leave for America for two years, the woman Ronald cheated on me for 6 months is now bearing his child!” Hermione was now facing Draco crying. “Molly doesn’t even know what really happened between us, I bet. I don’t know what she thinks happened, but she definitely doesn’t know the truth. It wasn’t commitment problems, I was committed to Ronald since the day I fell in love with him. I wasn’t scared, I didn’t get cold feet. I was ready to be a Weasley, Malfoy. It was all I ever wanted, to be the one with his name, to be the one bearing his children instead of her, it was all I ever wanted. Even though I really knew that I wasn’t truly ready to come back, I was ready to be a Weasley.” Draco couldn’t believe what he was hearing. All that pain that Hermione had been in for the past two years while stupid Weasley was going around being happy with that stupid Lavender Brown! And now she’s pregnant? How far is she along… about a month? She looked fine at the reunion… and that’s when it clicked in Draco’s head. They left early that night… he thought to himself. Looking down at Hermione, she wasn’t standing anymore; she was on her knees repeating the same thing over and over again through her sobs. “I was ready… I was ready to be a Weasley.” Draco didn’t know what to do. What could he say to make her feel better? He couldn’t say that it was going to be ok; they both knew perfectly well that it wasn’t and they couldn’t do anything about it. The next thing Draco knew, he was also on his knees and surprised Hermione by grabbing her and putting his arms around her shaking body. “I know you were Hermione.” He said holding her closer to his fast beating heart. Hermione didn’t say anything back to Draco; she stopped talking all together. When Draco grabbed her, she didn’t fight it like she did last time, and she didn’t fight him when he pulled her closer to him. All she did was cry. All the tears she held in that night at the reunion, all the tears she held in when Molly Weasley told her the news came bursting out even more and Hermione did nothing to hold them back. “You would have made a great Weasley.” Draco said, shocking Hermione into crying even more. “Draco…” a whisper was all she could let out, but there it was. “…Thank you…” she finished, now grabbing the back of Draco’s baseball shirt, holding him as tightly as he was holding her. “A great Weasley.” Draco said holding her as a slight breeze on the hot summer day moved through the yellow flowers that surrounded them. ~*~*~*~*~*~ “Get off of him! Bill, George, get him off him!” Not only did it take both Bill and George Weasley to get Draco off of Ron, but it also took Arthur Weasley to pull him off before Ron’s face could be completely broken and bruised. “You lying cheating son of a weasel! How could you do that to her? And with Lavender Brown out of all people? Did you think of her feelings or were you too consumed of your own? Huh? What is it?” ~*~*~*~*~*~ After what seemed like only a moment, Draco felt Hermione’s grip on his shirt loosen as he let go of her, both still sitting on the ground. Wiping the smeared wet makeup from her face, Hermione noticed that most of her makeup was off her face and Draco’s shirt. “Oh no, your shirt!” she said trying to wipe it off his shoulder. Draco didn’t know what to say, she was so close to him now, he was afraid that she would hear how fast his heart was beating under the shirt she was trying to get make up off. “It’s fine, it’s just a shirt.” Draco said having to stop himself from pulling her into another hug. After a few moments of both of them staring at the ground Hermione said, still looking at the ground in embarrassment, “You can start anytime now.” “Start what?” “I just told you a huge secret, I even cried. It’s the perfect moment for you to make fun of me. ‘The mudblood cries!’ So do it already.” “No.” “Excuse me?” “I’m not gonna make fun of you, Hermione, and I’m not gonna stop calling you Hermione either so don’t you dare tell me stop.” Draco said surprisingly confident. “Why? You’re Draco Malfoy, the one who made my life at Hogwarts a living hell, the almighty ‘full blood.’” “Well that was in the past. Times have changed, and growing older, I realized that I was a total dick to you back then, and if I could, I would definitely change how I acted, then maybe today…” Draco couldn’t finish that sentence; Draco could never finish that sentence. Oh how he wanted to, though. How he wanted to tell her right then and there the truth about why he treated her the way he did. He wanted to tell her that even though he was just “the guy who put her through hell” at Hogwarts, she was much more than the “filthy little mudblood” to him. “So you’re not going to make fun of me?” Hermione said getting up, reaching her hand out for Draco. “Nope, not at all.” He said gladly accepting her help up. Hermione didn’t know what happened to Draco to make him act like the way he was now, but honestly she liked the new and improved Draco, but she would never let him know that. “Not even one?” “Fine. You…you suck at crying.”Draco said. “Really? That’s the best you got? What happened to you Draco?”Hermione said accidently letting his first name slip out. “You called me Draco.” Draco said with the grin that always made Hermione nervous. “Yeah, but don’t get used to it Malfoy.” Hermione said trying to hide the fact she was blushing as they walked away from the yellow flowers together. ~*~*~*~*~*~ “What does he mean…what does he mean by that Ronald?” a scared and confused Molly Weasley asked her son after she watched him get beat up. “Yeah, what really happened two years ago Ronald? They don’t know, do they? Did you think they would really believe that Hermione one day, two weeks before she was about to get married, just suddenly decide to cancel everything she’s planned and go to America? For what? To live a new life as a muggle? And what about the new girlfriend that arrived shortly after? Oh she’s not so new; they were together six months before that. You wanna know how? Because he cheated on Hermione! How do you think she felt Weasley? To know that for six months she was being cheated on by the one she really loved. She didn’t run away because of commitment problems, she didn’t run away to get a new job. She was ready; she was ready and willing to be the best Weasley she could be!” Looking over from the shocked looks of the Weasley family, including Bill and George who were the only things keeping Draco from attacking Ron again, he looked to the girl sitting on the couch next to Ron. A scared and worried Lavender Brown was trying to clean Ron’s face. “And now she’s pregnant? You couldn’t bear to see Hermione again at the reunion, could you? So you left early with your girlfriend to go have some fun. Didn’t see this one coming did you”? Draco said as Bill’s and George’s grips got tighter on Draco’s arms. “Is this true Ron? Everything that Mr. Malfoy just said, is it true?” Molly asked, now standing staring at her bruised son. “Mum…” “I said is it true!” and with a few deep breaths Ron admitted, “Yes.” “She would have made a great Weasley, better than her.” Draco said spouting at the couple. “And what about you, you hypocrite?” Ron said now facing Draco angrily. “What?” “You’re too busy sticking up for another woman, someone you’ve hated for years, while you’re engaged to Astoria Greengrass. What would she say about this, Malfoy?” Ronald said holding the crumpled wedding invitation. “Why you…” but before Draco could get near him, he stopped himself. He escaped from the tight grips of Bill and George and walked out of the house, disappearing far away from the Burrow. “Oh Won-Won, are you ok?” Lavender said once Draco was gone. “Get out.” “But Mum… I meant to…” “GET OUT!” Molly yelled as loud as she could. Without another excuse, not even a word, Ron got up and left, a crying Lavender Brown following after, leaving Molly and the rest of the Weasley family to think about what just happened. ~*~*~*~*~*~ **Wahoo for Chpt 9!!! Draco and Hermione moment ya!!! :D :D So what do you guys think?? Review and let me know what you think! See you guys in Chpt 10!! ~kitty_kat9211** London 2001 2 weeks before the wedding Ring! Ring! Ring! “Ronald your phone is ringing!”Hermione yelled to an empty apartment. He must have left early for work. Hermione thought to herself while looking for her fiancé’s phone. The thought of having a muggle phone to Ron was crazy, but how else was Hermione going to reach him… now if only Ron could ever answer his phone when she called him. Hermione couldn’t believe that finally after all they’ve been through together in two weeks Hermione Jean Granger was finally going to become a Weasley! She had to remind herself sometimes that no, she wasn’t dreaming, she even had to pinch herself just to make sure. But since the start of their engagement, Hermione noticed that Ronald was acting weird, and that was saying something since she was talking about Ron Weasley. “Yeah, yeah, everything is perfectly fine; you worry too much sometimes ‘Mione.” Ron would always say when Hermione asked him what was up with him. But Hermione didn’t believe his words, just by watching his actions. He acted nervous, his pale face paler than usual, his hands shaking, like he was guilty of something that he wouldn’t tell her. It’s nothing… maybe I am worrying about it too much. Hermione would always tell herself when Ron started acting up. By the time she found Ron’s cell phone in their bedroom, it showed that there was one missed call, so she checked who it was so she could tell him when he got home from work. Lavender Brown…why would she be calling? When did she even start using a phone? Hermione thought to herself. She suddenly jumped when Ron’s phone went off again. “A voicemail…” and before she knew it, curiosity took over and Hermione was listening to the voicemail. “Hey Won-Won, it’s me Lavender.” Won-Won? When was the last time she called him that? Hermione thought to herself while listening on. “So you’re getting married in two weeks and it’s been a blast, but I think we need to stop this little affair. I love you, and you’ll always be my Won-Won, but you’re getting married. It’s been fun. Have fun with Hermione; call me when you get bored. Bye bye for now!” and then she hung up. “That little…” but before she could finish, Hermione had already threw the phone with all her might to the wall, breaking it to pieces. She could have easily pulled out her wand and cast a spell to break it, she had plenty of spells to choose from in her head, but no spell in the world could satisfy what she felt at that moment as tears filled her eyes. Everything made sense now. When Ron got back to the apartment after a long day at work, he was surprised to see clothes and things all over the living room. The apartment a total mess and his fiancé was packing a large suitcase in the middle of the mess. She never lets the apartment get dirty, what the bloody hell is going on? Ron thought to himself. “Are you going somewhere ‘Mione?” he asked, Hermione ignoring him. “How long?” was all she said after a moment of silence. “How long what, Hermione? What’s going on?” “How long, Ron?” Hermione asked once again trying to stay calm. “How long…” “How long have you been cheating on me!” Ron was shocked. What could have happened for Hermione to know? She would have found out sooner or later, he might as well tell her the truth, she deserved that much. “6 months.” Ron told her. “6 months? That’s almost our whole engagement!” Hermione said now with tears streaming down her face. “’Mione I…” “I don’t want to hear your excuses. Here I am ready and planning this wedding while you were having an affair behind my back for 6 months. 6 months you hid this from me, 6 months you lied to my face! What was going to happen after we were married, continue on with the affair thinking I would never find out? What do you take me for Ronald?” “Hermione stop, let’s talk about this…” “No! I don’t’ want to talk about this anymore. I don’t want to talk, listen, or do anything with you anymore, I’m done! This wedding is off!” and with that, Hermione took off her engagement ring, threw it hard to the ground, and grabbed her suitcase. “I’ll get my other things later.” Those were the last words Hermione ever said to Ron before walking out of his life. “Hermione!” Ron kept yelling, but Hermione didn’t care. Let him lose his voice from calling out her name for all she cared, all she had to do was to get to her car without looking back. As the calling of her name got quieter and quieter, Hermione’s quick fast steps became slower, more spread out as the rain poured on her. Why did this have to happen on a rainy day? So her tears could blend in with the rain? “Hello, Ginny?”Hermione asked in sobs as she got into her car. “Hermione… what’s wrong?” a worried Ginny Weasley asked on the other side of the phone line. “Can I stay over for one or two days; I need a place to stay.” “Yeah, of course. What happened?” Ginny asked afraid to know what happened. “I’ve been cheated on.” Hermione admitted. 2 weeks later Wedding Day One or two days turned into five or six as Hermione stayed in the guest room of Ginny Weasley’s and Harry Potter’s apartment a town away from where her old apartment was. The day after her arrival, Ginny picked up the rest of Hermione’s things, knowing her brother was at work, while Hermione stayed at home calling the guests and making up excuses to why the wedding was canceled. By the fourth of fifth call though, Hermione couldn’t take the questions, the slightly annoyed and curious tone in the people’s voice anymore. Even though it was Hermione’s responsibility to call, to tell them the reason why there was no more wedding to go to, Ginny had to take over the calling list when she came home to a crying Hermione at the dining room table. Ron cheated on me. Ron cheated on me. For the first two or three days that was all that Hermione could think about as she locked herself in her room, only coming out to go to the bathroom. She barley ate, she barley slept, until one day Harry came in for a little visit, not knowing what to expect. “How are you holding up?”Harry asked sitting next to a curled up girl under the sheets. No answer. So Harry did what first popped into his head. He got up and threw the sheets off of her. “Oh Hermione, you look horrible.” Harry said getting a look at her as Hermione quickly got up, failing to get back the blanket that was in Harry’s hand. Her fuzzy brown mane was in every direction even pieces in directions Harry never knew existed and her make-up was smeared and stained on her face. There were no other words that could describe what she looked like other than horrible, but in Hermione’s mind, she felt worse than what she looked like. “Shut up Harry, leave me alone.” “Leave you alone to do what, cry some more? I’m not gonna let you do that…especially in my apartment.” “But Ron…” “Yeah, we know what Ron did, and he’s a total dick for doing it to you. But that doesn’t mean you’re gonna let it affect you like it is, Hermione. You’re Hermione Granger for heaven’s sake. You’re the smartest witch in our class… in this generation. Anyone need a spell, a potion? They know to go to you. Not only are you smart, but you’re fun, a little stubborn, caring and beautiful. If Ron can’t see that, he’s a dimwit and we both know he is.” Harry said, getting a laugh out of Hermione. “See, there’s that beautiful smile we all know and love.” Harry said, wiping a tear off Hermione’s cheek. “So what do I do then, Harry?” Hermione asked. “Show him what he’s missing out. Show him that you would have made the best Weasley in the whole world. Geesh Hermione, I just called you the smartest witch in this generation and you couldn’t even think of that?” Harry said laughing as Hermione nudged him a little. Harry was right. Why was she spending her time crying while she could be out there proving Ron wrong? “I hate to see you like this Hermione, really. No offence, but you really need a shower.” Harry said as Hermione once again nudged him, a little harder this time. “But really, I do hate seeing you like this. Ginny as well, she’s worried sick; you’re all she talks about these days.” “Ha, well I’ll go talk to her.” “After you take a shower.” Harry said, quickly getting off the bed before Hermione could nudge him again. “Harry?” Hermione said before he could leave her room. “Yeah?” “Thank you.” Hermione said with light smile. “No problem.” Harry said leaving her room. After that speech, Hermione found herself feeling much better. She started to eat more, sleep more, even get out of the apartment a few times. But every time she did, even though people thought she couldn’t hear them, Hermione could hear the whispers around her when she walked by. “Look there’s Hermione Granger. Wasn’t she supposed to get married to Ron Weasley? I wonder what happened.” Hermione found herself starting to slip into the crying condition she was just a few days ago, but she stayed strong. But the whispers never stopped, and she found herself leaving the apartment less and less. I’ve overstayed my visit here… I bet Gin and Harry are starting to get annoyed with me. Hermione thought to herself. I need to get out of here, and not just the apartment. So Hermione did what she knew what to do best. She did research and without Ginny or Harry knowing, she bought one ticket to America, a one way ticket. Days soon turned into weeks, and Hermione soon found it was August 7, the day she and Ron were supposed to be married. But instead of walking down the wedding aisle ready to give her hand in marriage, Hermione found herself packing her suitcase once again, getting ready to start a new life in America. Hermione wanted to leave a letter for Ginny and Harry telling them thank you for helping her and giving her a place to stay for the past few weeks, but she couldn’t. She was afraid that they may stop her, she was afraid that they would find out where she had gone and try to bring her back. Hermione couldn’t let that happen, she couldn’t let anyone, not even her best friends know where she was. She needed to get away from the magic world, even if that meant living life as a muggle, that’s what had to be done. She’d lived most of her life as a muggle anyway, how hard could it be? So early in the morning, as Ginny and Harry were still sound asleep, Hermione got up, grabbed her suitcase and snuck out the door never turning around. “You would have made a great Weasley… a great Weasley.” “Draco!” Hermione yelled as she awoke from her bed sweating. A dream… I was remembering what happened… but then what happened with Draco up at the hillside came to mind…why? Hermione thought to herself ripping the blankets off her body. “Hermione, I’m home!” Ginny yelled to Hermione when she entered the apartment, walking into a sweating Hermione in her room. Why was Draco so kind to me? I even told him to make fun of me and the best thing he could think of was that I sucked at crying… I just don’t get it… She thought as she felt her face flush with embarrassment. “Draco….what are you up to?” Hermione asked herself as she got out of bed, changed and went to get ready for her date with a different guy. ~*~*~*~*~*~ **Wahoo for chapter 10!!! So i have a dilemma that i need help with!! So even though posting wise i am on chapter 10.. i am actually writing wise on chapter 25... and ive already planned this story out and i have 30 chapters... so i have 5 more chapters to go until im done... tear.. i know.. but than thats where the dilemma comes... what should my next project be?? A sequel?? A whole nother draco/hermione story.. or a different story with a new couple (and i need ur opinions on what couple i should do)... i actually have a good... kinda deeper darker idea for a sequel so im leaning towards that.. but i wanna know what you guys think! so review and tell me what i should do.. ooh and you should review and tell me what you think of the story/chapter/whatever your little heart desires :). So ya... i hope you enjoy chapter 10... the secret of what really happened between Hermione and Ron finally comes out! See you guys in chapter 11! :D ~kitty_kat9211** “Draco, Blaise I’m home!” Astoria said as Blaise walked down the stairs to greet her. “Hey, how was work?” Blaise said giving Astoria a peck on the cheek. “Long, as normal, have you seen Draco? I wanna see if he actually did what I asked.” Astoria said looking around for her fiancé. “He’s in his room I think, but I wouldn’t bug him though.” “Why?” “I don’t know, he came home in a pissed off mood from who knows where.” Blaise said “Well I did ask him to go to the Weasley’s place today…” Astoria said. Did he bump into Hermione perhaps? Astoria finished her sentence in her head. “That would explain it… well if you don’t mind, I’m running late for my date tonight.” Looking at her best friend (other than Draco) Astoria noticed that instead of the usual somewhat dressy clothes he wore on his dates, he was wearing just a pair of jeans, a green shirt under a black zipped up sweater. “You look a little too casual for your date tonight…where are you guys going this time?”Astoria couldn’t help but ask. “Just to a local café and then a walk around the park. She’s gonna show me pictures from her home back in America.” Blaise said excited. “You’re really falling for this Hermione Granger, aren’t you?” Astoria asked after seeing the look on his face as he told her his plans for tonight. “Ya, I really am. I haven’t felt like this since… well since you Astoria.” Blaise said honestly looking right through Astoria’s eyes. “Blaise you know that’s not true, we didn’t date for that long, and you’ve dated way more girls than just me.” Astoria said trying not to meet Blaise’s gaze. “We both know what we had been something…and…” “And now I’m engaged to Draco.” Astoria finished his sentence. “Ya, well if you excuse me I’m running late.” Blaise said taking his gaze off Astoria, walking away. “Blaise…” Astoria found herself saying. “What?” Blaise said turning around to face her once again. “You should invite her over… Hermione I mean. You guys have been together for what, over a month and you haven’t brought her here yet? It could be like a double date or something.” Astoria said as she saw a smile form on Blaise’s face. “Ya, I might do that. Have fun with the cranky Draco.” “Thanks, I will.” And with that Blaise was out the door. After a few moments of watching Blaise disappear, Astoria finally realized what she just suggested to him. “Oh no, what did I just do…” as Astoria turned and started heading towards her cranky fiancé hoping somehow Blaise wouldn’t take her suggestion. “Hermione, this book is awesome, where did you get it?” Blaise asked in amazement as he was flipping though the Chicago picture book Hermione got earlier. “Just a muggle bookstore in London.” Hermione said looking over at a picture of Chicago during the night time, suddenly missing her home back at the apartment. Getting a look off the book and getting a good look at his date that was now off her seat closer to him looking at the picture book, he saw that she was wearing a black summer dress over a tight white t-shirt. Her hair was down and wavy and her make-up was natural, bringing out her brown eyes. “You look pretty tonight Hermione.” Blaise said surprising Hermione back into her seat. “Why thank you Blaise. You don’t look too bad yourself.” Hermione said with a small chuckle. “Heh, thanks…I really like you, you know that right?” Blaise said embarrassed. “This is random Blaise… first you call me pretty, and now this? Stop it’s weird.” Hermione said jokingly. “No, I’m not gonna stop calling you pretty. And I’m not gonna stop telling you how much I like you Hermione.” “I’m not gonna stop calling you Hermione either so don’t you dare tell me stop.” Why did that pop in my head? Hermione thought to herself as thoughts filled her mind of the event that happened earlier that day by the hillside. What was Draco Malfoy really thinking of when Hermione blurted out everything to him? Did he really mean it when he said he would stop making fun of her? And what about Astoria Greengrass, his fiancé, does she know about what happened earlier? What is Draco doing right now? Is he thinking about what happened today on that hillside as well? “Hermione are you ok?” And all of the sudden Hermione’s thoughts were back on to her date. “Ya I’m fine, sorry I spaced… what were you saying?” “Oh well… I was just wondering what you were doing next week.” Blaise answered. “Um…other than helping Gin with stuff for the wedding, nothing. Why?” “You should invite her over… Hermione I mean. You guys have been together for what, over a month and you haven’t brought her here yet? It could be like a double date or something.” “I was wondering if you would like to come over to my place to have dinner with me, Astoria and Draco. Astoria is dying to meet you.” Blaise said tweaking what happened a little earlier, hoping Hermione would agree to go anyways. “Dinner with Astoria and Draco… at Malfoy Manor?” Hermione asked. “Ya.” And as he said it, he remembered. The last time Hermione Granger was at Malfoy Manor, was during the war with Voldemort when Hermione was being tortured by one Bellatrix Lestrange. “Oh Hermione, I totally forgot… I didn’t…” “No, what was in the past is in the past. I would love to have dinner with you guys.” Hermione said with a smile. “Really, are you sure?” Blaise wanted to make sure. “Ya. Now come on, it’s a beautiful night, shall we take a walk?” Hermione said looking out the window of the café. “Let’s go.” Blaise got up reaching out his hand to Hermione. “Take my hand Hermione.” What did I just do? Hermione thought to herself as she grabbed Blaise’s hand, scared to go to Malfoy Manor again not just for her past experience with Bellatrix Lestrange… but for her past experience with Draco Malfoy. ~*~*~*~*~*~ **Wahoo for Chapter 11!! Thank you to everyone who has reviewed and helped me with my dilemma.... who knew so many people would be open to a darker deeper side of Her Reason to Stay?! Now i'm really gonna enjoy this :D (insert evil laugh here..mwahahahahahahahhahahahahahahhahahahahaha!) But that doesn't mean that i'm still not open to writing other pairings... so if you have a couple pairing u want me to write a story to... review and hit me up! if you don't... well you should review anyways :D. You guys really make my day with ur reviews when I come home from a bad day... you guys ROCK! So ya... i guess i'll see you guys in Chpt 12... oh wait! What do you guys think of Astoria? In this chapter you get a little sneak peak of what's going on in her head... so review and now i will see you guys in Chpt 12 :) keep on rocking! ~kitty_kat9211** Malfoy Manor, Wiltshire, England 2 months till wedding “Blaise will you calm down already!” Draco said annoyed a week later. “I can’t help it…” Blaise said pacing. ‘It’s just dinner.” Draco said trying to get comfortable on the couch. “Ya, but it’s dinner… she’s coming here…for dinner!” Blaise said freaking out. “There’s no reason to be freaking out Blaise.” But in all reality, there was a reason to be freaking out in Draco’s mind. Just minutes before talking to Blaise, Draco locked himself inside his room and found himself pacing back and forth trying to calm himself down. “She’s coming here… to my house… for dinner…” Draco whispered to himself. “Hermione Granger… is coming to Malfoy Manor…Hermione Granger… is going to be in my house eating… Hermione Granger…” Draco couldn’t stop saying her name. He still couldn’t believe he said her name out loud to her… let alone tell Hermione later that he wouldn’t stop calling her by her first name… he liked the sound of her name… Hermione. Once Draco finally got himself to calm down, Draco ran down the stairs in a pair of dark jeans with white patches and a dark blue t-shirt to a pacing Blaise who was wearing a pair of nice dark jeans and a black shirt where he found himself now trying to calm his friend down for the same reason he was. “She’s gonna be here any minute… that reminds me.” And before Draco knew it… Blaise had stopped pacing and was standing right in front of him. “I know you don’t like Hermione… but this is a big night for me… and I really want this night to end well…so for tonight… just for tonight…I’m not saying you have to be best friends with her… but please… be nice to her Draco.” And that’s when reality hit him. The only reason why she’s coming to my house is not because of me… it’s because of him. Blaise doesn’t know what happened between me and her… he doesn’t have a clue of what’s going on in my head when it comes to her…and I have to keep that going… for both him and Astoria. And just when I finally started something with her. Draco thought to himself as he was starring at his best friend. “Draco, did you hear me? Will you be nice to her?” “Who will Draco be nice to tonight?” and Draco saved by the fiancé. Looking over at her as she was walking down the steps he noticed that Astoria was a little dressed up for tonight’s dinner. Her short black dress of lace went down to the top of her knees as her long black hair was down and curly. Did she curl her hair? “You looked dressy tonight Astoria.” Draco said getting up from his seat to face her. “I wanna make a good impression on Ms. Granger.” Astoria said. Even though yes, she did want to impress Hermione, but there was so much more with that. “So will you please… for me Draco?” Blaise said getting Draco’s attention back to him. In Draco’s mind when Blaise says that he wants him to be nice to Hermione, it really means that he has to act normal…like the way he did back in Hogwarts. That means that the once Hermione has to go back to being “Mudblood Granger”. But most of all it means that Draco has to go back to just watching Hermione, and he hated that. “Ya, I’ll try… but just for tonight.” Draco said as a grin formed on his best friend’s face. ~*~*~*~*~*~ Walking up to Malfoy Manor, memoires of the last time Hermione was there came creeping back to her. Just thinking about it made the spot in her arm where there once was carved “Mudblood” burn… and it’s been 5 years since and it’s long healed. Looking around, Hermione noticed that Malfoy Manor was different from that night all those years ago. It felt more like home in some weird way… did they change the front garden? Getting a good look around her, Hermione noticed that the manor was beautiful, in an old antique sort of way. Hermione never got a chance to really look at Malfoy Manor the last time, she was a little too preoccupied with other things. Knock! Knock! Knock! “Just breathe Hermione… just breathe…” as the door opened up to a grinning Blaise Zabini. “Welcome.” Was all he said before Hermione found herself in his embrace. “Hi Blaise.” Hermione said lightly hugging him back. “Come in, come in. Astoria! Draco!” “Blaise we’re right here. Hi, you must be Hermione. I’m Astoria Greengrass, I’ve heard so much about you from Blaise.” Astoria said reaching out her hand to Hermione. Astoria Greengrass. During her time at Hogwarts, she never got a chance to know Astoria, all she knew that she was Daphne Greengrass’ little sister who was two years under her…and now Draco Malfoy’s fiancé. Getting a good look at Astoria, she definitely didn’t look like she is two years younger than her. Small body, big bust and butt, gorgeous long black curly hair…the black lace dress she was wearing didn’t help but show her curves. Just the type Draco Malfoy would go for. Hermione couldn’t help but feel a little jealous… Astoria Greengrass is so gorgeous! “Hi. Nice to meet you.” Hermione said taking her hand with a small smile. “Draco dear… come here and say hi to our guest.” Astoria waved her fiancé over to Hermione. “Alright Hermione, breathe.” Hermione thought to herself as Draco met up with his fiancé grabbing her waist pulling her closer to him as jealousy quickly filled Hermione’s thoughts. “So Blaise decides to hook up with a mudblood… who knew he’d go that low.” Draco said with a laugh. “Draco!” Blaise said giving him an evil glare as Astoria hit him in the stomach. “No it’s fine Blaise, I’m used to it…” Hermione said hurt. “Alright…well, should we start dinner?” Blaise said still angry at Draco’s comment. But what Blaise didn’t know is that Blaise wasn’t the only one upset with Draco’s comment to Hermione. “Ya, let’s get started.” Astoria said as the group headed towards the dining room. It sure was going to be a long night, for all four of them. ~*~*~*~*~*~ **Wahoo for chapter 12!!! First of all I wanna say that I apologize for this chapter coming a little late. I've been really busy recently so I haven't had time like before to add more chapters.. but hey... its better late than never right ;). And also I must say... I never realized how short this chapter was until I put up here... wow.. but don't worry... there will be longer chapters I promise! (I just don't remember where they were.. chuckles) but ya... so what do you guys think?? Review and tell me what you think! See you guys in chpt 13.. where the dinner really cooks up.. haha get it...i thought it was funny. :) ~kitty_kat9211** warning: scene of a mild sexual nature I can’t believe I said that to her! She must hate me right now. Draco thought beating himself as the four were in the middle of dinner. Throughout dinner Draco would find himself starring at Hermione. Astoria looked hot…like normal, but Hermione... no words could explain how beautiful Hermione was as she sat nervously by Blaise. Astoria wore a tight black dress that showed off her curves, but Hermione didn’t have to wear a black tight dress to show how beautiful she was. When Hermione came in the door wearing her green summer dress with all her hair down except a couple of strands pinned back behind her ears Draco found himself in awe and jealousy as the one she was hugged wasn’t him. In Draco’s mind, Hermione was already the most beautiful girl in the world…if only Draco could tell her that. Sometimes, Draco would also find Hermione staring at him but then quickly would turn away with a look of hurt in her eyes. I am such an idiot! Draco thought to himself. “So Hermione, why did you go to America?” “Astoria!” Blaise said. “What, I’m just trying to start a conversation.” “No it’s ok… she’s curious…but first… I’m gonna use the restroom real quick.” Hermione tried to say with a smile. Before anyone could explain to Hermione where the bathroom was, Hermione was already up out of her seat and headed towards one of the many hallways in Malfoy Manor. “What was it something I said?” Astoria asked after Hermione had left the room. “Umm I think I forgot something in my room.” Draco said getting out of his chair. “Something out of his room?” but before Blaise could question Draco, he was already far away from the dining room table leaving just Blaise and Astoria at the table. Why did I say that I needed to go to the bathroom? Hermione thought to herself trying to find her way through all the hallways. The night definitely wasn’t going as well as she had hoped it would have gone. So without realizing it, she escaped and is now trying to find the place where she really didn’t need to be. She just needed to get away from the table, to get away from the group and have a moment to breathe and cool down before going back. Now if only she could find where it was… “So Blaise decides to hook up with a mudblood… who knew he’d go that low.” Did the hillside mean so little to him? “I’m not gonna make fun of you Hermione, and I’m not gonna stop calling you Hermione either so don’t you dare tell me stop.” Was all he said just a lie? Hermione really didn’t know why Draco’s comment earlier that night was affecting her that much… its Draco Malfoy, the guy who put her through hell during her time at Hogwarts. She should be used to his nasty comments by now. But time at the hillside… I knew Draco Malfoy never really changed… why did I think I could tell him what really happened between me and Ron? Hermione thought. “Ugh! Where is the bathroom!” as Hermione turned the corner to what she thought was another hallway but was mistaken. Instead of another hallway Hermione walked into a room of black. Yes, the whole castle was dark and scary, but this room was more modern, too modern for this old manor. Leaned against the middle of the back wall was a huge bed with dark black and gray sheets with matching pillows. Around the bed were black dressers, a few black and grey chairs and a black and grey rug sitting on top of the black floor. The room was dark, there were no pictures, and the only light that came in the room was from the one window close to the bed side. “Whose bedroom is this… it must be the master bedroom…could it be??” “We just got done refurnishing this room about a few months ago, how do you like it?” a sudden familiar voice came from behind her. Turning around she looked straight into those once again kind silver eyes that were once mean and cruel just earlier that night. “You know, you could have asked where the bathroom was before you left the table Hermione.” Draco said with a smile. “Don’t call me that Malfoy. Don’t you ever dare call me that again.” “Herm…” “I poured my heart out to you on that hillside. I told you the truth. I even cried, something I never would let a fullblood like you see. You said you would stop making fun of me…and the funny thing is for a moment there I actually believed you had changed. But I was wrong.” But Hermione didn’t think it was funny, no one did. “I meant every single word I said that day.” Draco said. “Lies! You proved to me tonight that you never changed. You’re just the same guy you were back in Hogwarts. Mean, self-centered, cold-hearted and cruel. I’m shocked Malfoy. Right after we parted, you didn’t run right home and tell your precious fiancé the mudblood’s little secret. We both know she’s dying to know it, or she wouldn’t have asked me earlier.” Hermione said thinking back to Astoria asking her why she left. “I didn’t tell her anything. She had no right to ask you that.” “And you have no right to call me Hermione! Do you think you could be all friendly with me and then act like it never happened around your friends? Whatever the little game is you’re playing, I’m not gonna be a part of it.” As Hermione kept letting her anger out on Draco, Draco yes knew he deserved the yelling, but he needed to find a way to prove to her that he did change, but how? First, he needed to get her to be quiet and listen to him. That’s when Draco’s body acted on its own. Before Draco realized what he was doing or the consequences of his actions would be, he grabbed Hermione’s hand and pulled her closer as he put his lips on hers. That got Hermione to shut up, but what Hermione found is that she didn’t fight back…let alone could if she chose to. So warm… You wouldn’t think someone as dangerous as Draco Malfoy would have such soft, warm lips… and the way he kissed her; it was nothing like the way Ron kissed her. While Ron’s kisses were filled with a sense of home and happiness, Draco’s kiss had something Ron’s never had. At the moment, Hermione couldn’t exactly put her finger on what it was, but one thing she did know it was something, something big. So many mixed emotions Hermione was feeling from this kiss. It was like he was pouring every emotion she could think of into it; like he was trying to tell her something but didn’t know how. She felt like all of the emotions were soon going to overpower her, and she felt her body melting and pouring all over him in reaction. Hermione didn’t want it to end, and before she knew it, Hermione was kissing Draco back as he pulled her closer to him. All the hurt she felt from Draco’s comments, the rage towards Ron, even the jealousy she felt towards the gorgeous Astoria was all put into the kiss, but as fast as the kiss had started in an instant the passionate kiss was over leaving them both exhausted. That wasn’t it for Draco though, the kiss was just the beginning. “I have always cared for you, ever since year one at Hogwarts. I watched you grow up into the beautiful woman and witch you are today. I watched as you fell in love with that stupid Weasley and because of my actions, I watched your hate for me grow as well. I may be just the guy who put you through hell at Hogwarts, but you were never that to me Hermione.” Draco said in between breaths. Was Hermione dreaming or is Draco Malfoy really telling her this? “But all those years of calling me mudblood?” Was all she could say back. “You were never just the mudblood. You’re the smartest most attractive witch this generation has ever known.” “And what about Astoria? Astoria…Blaise…” That’s when reality sunk in her. What did I just do? Hermione thought to herself. Looking at Draco though, out of all the mixed emotions in his silver eyes, regret for what they had just done wasn’t one of them. “I… I need to go back…Blaise is probably wondering what’s taking me so long.” Hermione found herself saying. “Hermione…” But Hermione was already walking away from him. Once Hermione was out of sight, Draco walked further in his room and fell onto his bed looking up at the spinning fan. “I did it… I finally told her!” Whatever consequences waiting for him because of his actions wouldn’t matter right now, all that mattered to him is that finally after years of keeping it in, Draco finally told Hermione his true feelings. As Hermione was finding her way back to the dining room, she felt tears coming to her eyes. “If you truly like me Draco, then why did you wait until now to tell me?” she whispered as she dried her tears before seeing Blaise again. **Wahoo for Chpt 13!!! And Wahoo for another Draco/Hermione moment! This time it's a big one but it was fun to write and I hope you guys enjoy it as much as I did! So review and tell me what you guys think... I think this one is a little longer than the last chapter but ya... see you guys in Chpt 14! :) ~kitty_kat9211** London 1 month till wedding “Oh Hermione dear, look at this dress! It’s beautiful!” Mrs. Granger said pulling her daughter’s arm into the Bridal Dress shop. “Hermione…Hermione? Hermione!” “Yes?” Hermione looked up to see her best friend jumping up and down in front of the same Bridal dress shop where she once brought Ginny to buy her own dress. “Are you coming or what?” Ginny said running right in the store already finding a dress she liked. “Ooh, this one is pretty!” Ginny said grabbing the ruffles on the bottom. “Shouldn’t we wait until your mom gets here… where is she anyways?” Hermione asked sitting in one of the chairs in front of the dressing room, pulling her copy of Pride and Prejudice out from her purse. The last time Hermione saw Molly Weasley was when she ran into her at the muggle book store the day where she ended up telling Draco Malfoy the truth about what happened with Ron. “I have always cared for you since year one at Hogwarts.” After Draco’s sudden confession, the dinner turned into even more of an awkward night. It also didn’t help that after Hermione returned, Draco never made it back to the dinner table let alone the fact that Hermione still had to go to the bathroom. At least she got out of telling Astoria her reason for leaving. It’s been 2 weeks since the dinner, and Hermione hasn’t talked or seen Draco since. “Mum you’re here! Look how pretty this dress is!” Hermione didn’t even realize that Molly had made her entrance. “It’s very… poofy dear.”Molly said. “I know! I wanna try it on.” Ginny said hugging the dress. “How about we pick out a few more dresses just in case this one doesn’t work out. Where is someone to help us? Excuse me…anyone here?” Molly said apparently not approving of the dress. “Hello there. How may I help you?” a lady from the store asked. “Hi, my daughter needs a wedding dress.” Molly said pointing to her daughter who has now dropped the first dress and has moved on to another dress. “Well you’ve come to the right place. My name is Mary, you must be the bride’s mother. If you have any questions, I’ll be happy to help.” Mary said holding out her hand for Molly to shake. “How many dresses at once can I try on?” Ginny said now holding a handful of dresses as Hermione let out a sigh. “She’s worse than I was…” Hermione whispered to herself. “Oh Hermione, you’re here!” Molly said noticing Hermione sitting with a book in her hand. “Hi Molly, how are you?” Hermione asked nervously as Mary went to help Ginny try on the first of many. “I’m doing fine I guess… may I sit next to you?” Molly asked as Hermione nodded in agreement. “And how are you deary? Haven’t seen you since that day I ran into you at the bookstore.” Molly asked sitting down. “I’ve been fine… just getting ready for the wedding.” Hermione said closing her book. “No kidding… she wants it perfect… it’s hard sometimes dealing with having a daughter.” Molly said as they both laughed. “So Mum, Hermione, what do you guys think?” Ginny said already coming out in her first dress. The dress was a strapless mermaid dress that was tight to her small waist but came out in layers of ruffles once the dress reached right before her knees that went in all different directions. “Mom, Ginny, what do you guys think?” Hermione asked as she stepped out to see herself in the wall full of mirrors. The dress was strapless and it was just white. “It’s beautiful Hermione, but isn’t it a little plain?” Mrs. Granger asked her daughter. Looking at herself in the mirror she noticed that it was boring, but that’s what made it beautiful. “Gin?” Hermione asked still looking in the mirror. “I too think it’s beautiful, but I have to agree with your mom on this one.” “I agree as well.” Hermione said walking back to the dressing room. “Well… what do you think?” Ginny said interrupting her thoughts. “It’s… Hermione what do you think.” Molly said pulling Ginny’s attention to Hermione. “It’s… pretty.” “You don’t like it… Be honest Hermione, do you want me looking like a fool on my own wedding day?” “Of course not… it’s just… not the right one for you.” There she said it. “Shall we try on another one Ginny?” Mary said stepping in. “Ya, it has too many ruffles anyways.” Ginny said walking back into the dressing room. “Thank you Hermione…I didn’t know how to tell her the dress was ugly.” Molly said relieved once Ginny walked into the dressing room. “It’s like she said… we don’t want her looking like a fool on her own wedding day…do we?” Hermione said with a smile. “You’re right there.” Molly said also with a smile. After a few moments of an awkward silence, Molly finally spoke, “Hermione about…” “So how do you like this one?” Molly would have to wait. The second dress was also strapless but instead of being mermaid style, it was poofy. On the top it had a beautiful flower pattern made from beads and a layer of fabric that is the same as the matching veil covering the whole dress. “It’s better than the first one.” Molly said first. “It is pretty.” Hermione said truthfully this time. “Ya, but it is my wedding dress?” Ginny asked looking at herself in the mirror. After a few moments of looking at herself in the mirror Ginny finally made her decision. “I have to agree that it is pretty… but… It’s not my dress.” Ginny said. “Alright deary, go on and try on another dress… we’ll find it sooner or later.” Molly said as Mary led Ginny into the dressing room again as another awkward silence fell upon Molly and Hermione again. “About the last time we saw each other I would like to apologize.” “Molly, you’ve already apologized enough, it’s alright.” Hermione said. “Ya but for the longest time I was clueless to what really happened between you and Ron. If it wasn’t for Mr. Malfoy, I’m afraid I never would have found out the truth.” “Wait… Draco told you…when did this happen?” Hermione asked shocked to what she was hearing. “It was the same day actually. He came in the house a while after you left. He was so angry as he was hitting Ron right in front of everyone. He was screaming at him asking him why he did what he did to you and that’s when we found out the truth.” So he really didn’t run home to Astoria… he was telling the truth. Hermione thought to herself. “That boy has really changed since Hogwarts. He still has some work to do, but it’s a start right?” Molly said. “Ya…I guess.” Hermione said. I can’t believe he did that… “I have always cared for you since year one at Hogwarts.” Is that what Draco told me at dinner true? It has to be if what Molly said was true… why would Molly be lying if it wasn’t? Hermione thought to herself feeling her cheeks turn to a light pink color. “Oh Ginny, that dress looks gorgeous on you!” Molly said as Ginny walked out in her third dress. Looking up at her best friend she would have to agree that yes is a beautiful dress, especially on her. Like the first two dresses, the dress was strapless, but instead of being mermaid style or even poofy it was elegant. On the top there was a beautiful pattern of beads and under it was a white belt with a beautiful white flower on the side before the dress turned into different layers of fabric that flowed to the ground. “I think I found it Mum, I think I found my wedding dress.” Ginny said spinning around showing off the dress. “It is gorgeous Gin, but it’s only the third dress you’ve tried on. Are you sure you don’t want to try on other dresses so you can make sure. What if you find a different dress that’s better than this one?” Molly said with concern in her voice. “No, this one is the one. What do you think Hermione?” “It’s… it’s perfect Ginny. Harry will definitely love it.” Hermione said in awe. “Well then that settles it! This is the winner! And it goes perfectly with the decorations if I say so myself.” Ginny said excited. “Alright deary, if that’s what you want, we’ll get it.” Molly said giving up. “Aw thank you Mum! Things are finally starting to come together!” and with that Ginny turned around walking back to the dressing room with excitement. “She really does look gorgeous…doesn’t she?” Molly said with a big smile on her face. “Ya, she really does… Harry is one lucky guy.” Hermione also said with a smile. “You know Hermione, I know this may sound weird and it might sound wrong but hear me out. Maybe it was a good thing Ron did what he did to you.” “What do you mean?” Hermione said confused not knowing how to take what Molly just said. “I mean, look at the way Mr.Malfoy got angry…the way he screamed at Ron. A man like that wouldn’t get angry like that if you were just one ‘filthy little mudblood’ to him.” Molly said knowing Hermione’s and Draco’s past together. “But he’s engaged to Astoria Greengrass.” “That may be true, but does he really love her? Just think about that.” And with that Ginny came back out in her jeans and blouse holding her wedding dress. “Alright, wedding dress down, now let’s go get your bride’s maid dress.” “No Ginny, today is supposed to be your day.” But Ginny was already pulling Hermione’s arm wanting to leave. “We still have to pay for this you know.” Hermione said fighting back. “Well after that… we’ll go get your dress…come on Hermione.” There was no use in arguing with her. “Ugh fine, let’s get this over with.” “Great! Come on let’s go!!” “Let’s pay first deary.” Molly said before Ginny could get too ahead of herself. As Molly was paying for the dress only one thing was roaming around in her head, “I can’t believe he did that.” ~*~*~*~*~*~ **'Wahoo for chapter 14!! The wedding is coming closer and closer! i'm so excited!!! :D So what do you guys think?? Tell me what you guys think by reviewing!! See you all in chpt 15!! ~kitty_kat9211*** “Goodness Draco, do you ever listen to me or are you always tuning me out?!” an angry Astoria yelled. “Ugh…what’s with you these days? Ever since that dinner two weeks ago, all you’ve been doing is tune me out.” “Ever since that dinner all we seem to do is fight.” Draco said trying not to yell. “Well if you would just listen to me for once maybe we wouldn’t argue as much!” “But the wedding is all you talk about. What kind of flowers should we have? Should the wedding be inside or outside? You even asked me if we should either have metal or plastic silverware! I’m sick of all these questions! The wedding isn’t until December!” Draco didn’t care if he was yelling now. “I’m just trying to make our wedding perfect, down to every detail. It’s supposed to be the start of our new life together Draco and apparently I’m the only one who cares!” “You know I care Astoria.” “No you don’t. The one you care about is not even me.” Astoria said challenging Draco. “Oh really? Than what do I care about?” Draco said taking that challenge. “What are you guys arguing about this time?” Blaise said. Astoria knew Draco had asked her that question just to test her, and she knew exactly what she was going to say, so what was stopping her? Was it the possibility that she could be right all along? But she was so angry with Draco, more than usual; it just slipped out without realizing who else was listening to their conversation. “All you care about is Hermione Granger!” Neither Draco nor Blaise said anything in reaction, so Astoria kept on going. “You think I couldn’t see the way you looked at her at dinner Draco? I’m surprised Blaise didn’t notice it either cause he was too caught up starring at her as well. What is it about her that makes you guys like so much anyways? Is it because she’s a part of the “Golden Trio”? Is it because she’s pretty, because in my opinion, she’s just one filthy little mudblood.” Astoria said calling Hermione that out of anger. “You take that back.” Draco said angrily. “You see! That just proves my point right there. I’m not as dense as you think I am. It’s not just at dinner that I noticed. For a long time I’ve noticed it, the way you watched her from afar. I know that feeling a little too well. That’s the way it was for me with you. But now I have you, I feel like since she’s come back, I’m losing you again. She’s your best friend’s girlfriend!” Astoria didn’t mean for everything to come out the way it did but it just came out. All the anger, all the jealousy she’s felt towards Hermione for so long has finally come out but with consequences. “Oh Blaise when did you…” “How long Draco?” Blaise said ignoring Astoria. “Blaise I…” “How long Draco since you’ve liked my girlfriend?” Blaise asked. How did the conversation get to this? Draco thought to himself taking a deep breath before saying, “Since year one at Hogwarts.” “Year one at Hogwarts! All this time you didn’t say anything to me. All this time you went right along with making fun of her.” “You did too Blaise. You were standing right there with me when I did.” Draco said in self defense. “But I told you before, that was all before this summer. Time has passed and people have changed.” “I know that perfectly well Blaise.” Draco snapped back at him. Astoria couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Not only was her fiancé and Blaise were fighting over a girl, but it wasn’t even the one standing in the room. “I’m not gonna give up on her Draco, don’t even think for a moment that I will.” Blaise said in a challenging tone. “What’s gonna happen when she leaves, you know she’s leaving sometime after Potter’s wedding.” “You think I don’t know that? That’s why I’m gonna work hard to keep this relationship going, maybe then I can get her to stay.” “…I would love to stay here but I need a reason. A big one too… a big enough reason for me to drop everything I have in America and come home but…” “You really like her a lot, don’t you? After all these years of making fun of her, after one summer you’re willing to do everything in your power to stay with her? Who knew Mr. I don’t do well in relationships could even think of doing that.” “Oh I could do a lot for Hermione, more than you could ever do.” “Oh really?” Draco said forgetting Astoria was still in the room. “You say that you’ve liked Hermione since year one at Hogwarts, but all those years when you could have been going after her, no matter what other people said, you cowered and you made fun of her instead. You played around with all those different girls, still liking her perhaps? While you played around and watched her, you let her get away.” “You know my father as well as I do Blaise. He never would have approved of her, especially with the war going on back then.” “Those are just excuses… you’ve always made excuses. Just face the facts Draco, you’re engaged to Astoria not Hermione.” And before Draco could think of a comeback statement, Blaise had already walked out the door gone. “I know you’ve liked her for a long time Draco. Knowing that, I never gave up on you because my feelings were that strong. Years later, my feelings have grown stronger. I’m not giving up on you, I’ve worked so hard for us to work. You are my fiancé and this is our wedding. Feelings for her or not, you’re still mine.” “Astoria…” But it was Astoria’s turn to tune Draco out. With tears in her eyes, Astoria apparated leaving Draco all alone to think about what just happened. The truth hurts when it’s finally revealed, what’s going to happen though now that it has? **Wahoo for chpt 15!!! We are officially halfway there to being finished! Aw heck yes! Its been a great first half and I wanna thank everyone who has reviewed for well...reviewing! :D You guys always know how to make my day/night after having a long day at work! Keep up the great work and I hope to see more reviews in the last half! Now it starts to get interesting ;)... so tell me what you think and i'll see you in chpt 16!!! Enjoy! ~kitty_kat9211** Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry 1993 “Slytherin!” The sorting hat yelled once set upon an 11 year old Astoria Greengrass’ head. It was no shocker to Astoria that she would be put in Slytherin since her older sister Daphne was put in Slytherin two years ago. When has the sorting hat ever not put siblings in the same house? Look at the Weasleys, every single one has been but in Gryffindor. Once Professor McGonagall lifted the sorting hat off Astoria’s head and called the next 1st year, Astoria headed to the Slytherin table where she found a spot next to her sister. “Welcome to Slytherin little sis!” Daphne said welcoming her sister. Daphne then starting talking about the “rules of Slytherin” or something rather obscured when Astoria noticed a head of bleach blonde hair sitting a couple seats down from her. He’s cute. Astoria thought to herself trying to get in a position where she could see him better. What is he starring at? Astoria thought to herself as she followed his glance to a head of brown curls sitting at the Gryffindor table. “So ya, let me introduce you to my friends, you’ll fit right in with them.” Daphne said bringing Astoria’s attention back to her. “You already know Pansy, this is Blaise, Crabbe, Goyle, and the one spacing off again is Draco.” Daphne said, Draco not even realizing or caring that Daphne made fun of him. Draco…Astoria repeated in her head. “Welcome.” Blaise said with a big smile on his face. As all of her new friends kept asking her questions like if she likes it here so far, Astoria noticed that Draco didn’t say anything. He didn’t care about anyone at the table, he probably didn’t even notice that Astoria joined the group, all Draco cared about was that girl at the Gryffindor table who was now talking to what looks like a Weasley boy and a boy with black hair and circular glasses. “Hey Daphne, isn’t that Harry Potter sitting over there?” Astoria asked once everyone got back to their own conversations. “Ya, he’s a 3rd year like me and my friends.” She answered. “Oh. So who’s the two talking with him?” Astoria asked hoping to find the girl’s name. “The red head is, as you probably guessed, a Weasley…Ron Weasley, and the girl is named Hermione Granger.” “Hermione Granger?” “Ya. She’s the smartest girl in our class, but also muggleborn. My friends really hate those three, especially Draco. Every chance he gets, he calls Hermione Granger a mudblod, the Malfoy family being the ‘top pureblood family’ and all. That and it also entertains him, he tells Blaise and the boys.” If you hate her so much, then why are you starring at her with that look on your face? Astoria asked Draco in her head as she continued on watching Draco. It sure was going to be interesting going to Hogwarts. Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry 1995 “Blaise will you stop, we’re in public!!” Astoria said trying to stop her boyfriend from snogging her right in the middle of the hallway. Even though Astoria’s sight was on Draco, Astoria did have to admit that being with Blaise was fun sometimes. Ya, she did care for Blaise deeply, but her feelings for Draco wouldn’t go away. That’s why Astoria said yes to Blaise in the first place, so she could forget all about Draco. “But you’re just so tempting!” Blaise said trying to kiss her but then stops near the entrance to Hogwarts library. “Hey look, Draco, Crabbe and Goyle are with Potter and Granger. I bet Draco’s making fun of them good this time! Let’s get closer!” Blaise said obviously showing enjoyment to the fact. Rarely, she had the chance to see her, so as they got closer, Astoria got a good look at Hermione. Usually she would see Hermione in the hallway, but she was always with either Harry or Ron, so Astoria never got a chance to fully evaluate her. What’s so good about her anyways? Astoria would always think to herself as she passed Hermione, but seeing her now up this close, she made sure she got a good look. She’s pretty, but not gorgeous. Astoria thought to herself. Everyone in Astoria’s class thought Astoria was the most gorgeous girl in their class and were all in jealousy when Astoria started dating a 5th year like Blaise Zabini, let alone be friends with the 5th years, but she earned that title because the makeup she wore and the way she tamed her hair. Hermione Granger on the other hand barley wore any makeup and her long curly hair was still frizzy as ever. So what does Draco see in her? “You would think that after calling me ‘mudblood’ for so long, it would start to get a little boring. Maybe you should starting thinking of a new name Malfoy.” Hermione said challenging him before she stormed off with Harry into the library, probably meet Ron there. “She’s getting a lot faster with comebacks than she did when we were younger Draco. Maybe you should think of some new nicknames for her.”Blaise said catching the last part of their conversation. “Draco?” but Draco wasn’t listening. Draco was too busy watching the two Gryffindors disappear deeper into the library. “Oh…ya.” Draco said to Blaise then walking the opposite direction of the library. “Where are you going Draco?” Blaise asked Crabbe and Goyle who then went after Draco. “Draco…” Astoria whispered to herself. Dating Blaise was supposed to be helping her get over her little crush on Draco, but every time she talked to him, every time she caught him starring at Hermione with that look on his face made her feelings for him just grow stronger. All Astoria has ever wanted is for Draco to look at her the way he looks at Hermione. She doesn’t even expect Draco’s feelings with the way he treats her. “He can be so confusing sometimes, but I bet he’s probably going to go snog some random girl now… let’s out his anger he says but I bet it’s just more than that.” Blaise said. How is it that out of all her friends, Astoria is the only one who realizes Draco’s feelings for Hermione? Is Draco that good of an actor or are they all that dense? Draco Malfoy is known as three things at Hogwarts: the stuck up pureblood, the most attractive and a player. A bunch of times Astoria have caught Draco snogging a slutty Slytherin in the common room, and every time she does, it makes her sick to her stomach. Why do you do this to yourself Draco? Is it because Hermione Granger? Why do you go so low to hook up with a different girl every night? Astoria would ask Draco in her head. “I’ll find out from him later. Now, where were we?” Blaise said trying to go back to snogging his hot girlfriend. Who was Astoria kidding? Try as hard as she might, her feelings for Draco Malfoy weren’t going away. Instead of watching him drooling over a girl he knows he can’t ever have, shouldn’t Astoria be trying her hardest to be there for him? Shouldn’t she be giving him the happiness and love he truly deserves? For now, his eyes might only be for Hermione Granger, but how long would that last? Astoria wouldn’t stop until Draco is finally only looking at her and Hermione Granger is out of the picture. “Blaise, we need to talk.” Astoria said ready to take that challenge. Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry 2000 “I now present the class of 2000!”’ Finally after dealing with homework and wearing the stupid robes that hid her curves, Astoria was finally graduating. She didn’t mind going to school when her friends were there but once they graduated, Astoria felt like she was truly alone…like she was forced to making friends with people in her own class. It also didn’t help that during her 4th year (Draco’s 6th) Draco was nowhere to be seen for half the year and barley showed up to school during the war so it made it hard for Astoria to finally make her move on him. But two years later and things are finally starting to look normal and to her surprise, she was surprised to see all of her friends at the graduation, including Draco. “Oh sissy I am so proud of you!!” Daphne said after the ceremony, everyone following behind her. As her old friends were surrounding her congratulating her Astoria’s eyes were only on Draco. “Congrats.” Her friends all told her giving her hugs. “Are you ready to go?” Daphne asked her sister. “Um ya… just let me say goodbye to my friends.” Astoria lied to her sister hoping she would get a moment alone with Draco. “Ya, I’ll…. Oh hey! Haven’t seen you in so long!” And like normal Daphne, she was off living her social life. “How does she even know them?” Draco said walking up next to Astoria. “Ya no kidding, you never know with that girl.” Astoria said feeling a little blush in her cheeks. “Um, Crabbe, Goyle, let’s go ahead.” Blaise said noticing the two and walking away, Crabbe and Goyle following before apparating. “So, haven’t seen you in a long time Draco…how’s life been treating you?” Astoria asked nervously. “Fine I guess…” Draco said. Come on Astoria…do it now… this may be your only chance. “So Draco… I was wondering…” Astoria started… Say it… she kept commanding herself. “Yes?” Draco said, full attention on her now. Wow, he looks good. Astoria thought to herself seeing that he’s grown a bit taller over the years as well as the length of his bleach blonde hair and the muscles forming on his arms. “I….you….Will you go on a date with me?” There, she finally said it. “Ya, sure.” A response already? “You will?” Astoria couldn’t believe it. “Ya. How about I pick you up around 7 pm tomorrow and we have some dinner. I know the perfect place.” Draco said with a smile. “Alright, I would love that.” She still couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Finally after all these years, if she would have known if it would have been that simple, she would have asked sooner… but back then Astoria had to think about a certain Gryffindor. “Hey, sorry about that guys… You ready now? Where did the boys go?” Daphne came in the right time. “They left already.” Astoria said trying to act like nothing just happened. “Well if we don’t hurry, Crabbe and Goyle will probably eat all the food for the party so let’s go!” Daphne said. Finally a date with Draco. Astoria thought to herself before leaving to her graduation party. Malfoy Manor, Wiltshire, England Early May 2003 Goodbye Golden Trio An Article by: Rita Skeeter It has been five years since the war with “He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named” and Harry Potter’s victory, so what has happened to the famous “Golden Trio”? The question really is, what happened to member Hermione Granger? Two years has passed since her canceled engagement with also member Ron Weasley and no one in the Wizarding World has seen or heard the were abouts of Granger ever since. Was the breakup really that bad? What really happened between the love birds to end the engagement? With the class of 98’s reunion coming up shortly, no one knows if Granger will show up or prove to everyone that the Golden Trio is gone forever. Is Hermione Granger dead everyone is wondering. I check yes. Say goodbye to the Golden Trio. It has been fun. “Rita Skeeter still writes? Who in their right mind would publish her crap!” Astoria yelled slamming down this week newspaper on the table. “I’m just surprised the woman is still alive. How old is she now” Daphne asked sitting on the couch, visiting her sister. “Who would believe this crap though, Hermione Granger dead? Ridiculous.” “Ya, but she does makes some points Astoria. No one, not even Harry Potter knows where she is. She might as well be dead.” Daphne pointed out. Ever since year one, all Astoria has ever wanted was that Hermione Granger was out of the way so Astoria could have Draco, but now hearing that her once dream could be true, especially since she now has Draco, Astoria couldn’t really put her mind around it. “I don’t believe it.” But in all honesty, Astoria couldn’t help but believe Rita Skeeter’s words. “Draco must not know about this.” Astoria whispered as she crumpled up the article. Ya, Astoria knew that only crumpling one newspaper wasn’t going to prevent Draco from seeing the article, but at least he wouldn’t find out in his own house. And besides, when was the last time Astoria found Draco reading a newspaper…let alone anything? “So where is Draco taking you tonight?” Daphne said changing the subject. “I’m not sure. All he told me is that we’re going out tonight and that I need to dress nice.” “This is so random though…do you think? Daphne stopped herself suddenly excited. “Think what? What are you thinking?” Astoria asked. “Do you think he might pop the big question?” Daphne asked. “No…” “Come on Astoria, you guys have been dating for three years now, both of your guys longest relationship. You even live in his house…it’s gotta come up soon.” Daphne said. Even though Daphne wasn’t the smartest girl in the head, she did make a lot of points during her visit. “Well, it that’s true…what am I going to wear?” Astoria asked. “It’s a good thing I’m here then.” Daphne said motioning her sister to lead her to her room. If what her sister said was true, she definitely didn’t want Draco to find that article about Hermione Granger. I’ve worked so hard, I’m not gonna have her ruin it again. Astoria thought to herself as she headed up the stairs to get ready for the big night. Later on that night “Oh Draco, this restaurant is amazing! And look at the view!” Astoria said looking out the window. “I’m glad you like it.” Draco said pulling her chair out for her, then taking his own. “You look beautiful tonight.” Draco said as Astoria felt a slight blush rush to her cheeks. After what seemed like hours of finding the perfect outfit, they decided on a short purple dress, black heals and her long hair down and curled. “Thanks, you don’t look too bad yourself.”Astoria said noticing that he was wearing a black suit, white shirt and black tie. “Look Astoria…I…the reason I asked you here tonight….I…” What was Draco trying to say…is he…but before she could finish the subject Draco had stood up and was heading towards her. “Draco what’s wrong?” “We’ve been friends since your first year at Hogwarts. You’ve seen me go through girl after girl.” “What are you getting at Draco?” “What I’m getting at is that even though you’ve watched me go through girl and girl, you still had feelings for me… especially with…I love you Astoria. You’re kind, gorgeous, caring and wonderful. I want to be with you for the rest of my life.” And that’s when it happened. In front of the whole restaurant, even before they ordered their food, Draco Malfoy did something he thought he would never do. Draco Malfoy got down on one knee and asked the golden question. “Astoria Greengrass, will you marry me?” Draco said pulling out a wedding ring from his pocket. The wedding ring was a vintage inspired with 14 karat white gold features with a set of 35 round pave-set diamonds. The diamond sitting in the middle of the ring was a 2 karat diamond, and Astoria didn’t care if the diamond was 2 karat, 3 karat, or how expensive the ring was; it was perfect. “Draco… I… yes. I will marry you.” Astoria said with tears running down her face as the restaurant burst into cheers. “I love you Draco.” Astoria said as the couple went into a huge hug. “I love you too Astoria. I really do.” And with that, they fell into a deep passionate kiss that was only interrupted by their stomach growling. “Now, shall we eat?” Draco said as both of their cheeks were red with embarrassment. “Ya, I’m starving.” Astoria said with a huge grin on her face. Throughout the whole night, even though Astoria said she was starving, she couldn’t eat. All she did was just look at the sparkling ring on her finger. We’re engaged. She thought to herself, not knowing what was in for the newly engaged couple later on this month. London, Daphne Greengrass’ apartment Present Day After storming out of the house, the first place Astoria thought of going to was to Daphne’s apartment. “Daphne open up!” Astoria said knocking loudly at her front door. Astoria didn’t care if it was pouring out raining, after that argument with Draco, the way he fought with Blaise not even over Astoria, she was shocked. “…I want to be with you for the rest of my life.” Was that all just a lie? “Daphne, please open up.” Astoria said now in tears when she heard a door open, but it wasn’t to Daphne’s apartment. “Astoria?” a similar voice said. Turning her head she saw a girl with medium length curly hair pulled back in a bun with a pair of pjs standing right in front of her with her apartment door wide open. Standing right in front of her was the reason why it took Astoria so long to get with Draco. Standing right in front of her was the reason why Astoria was standing in front of her sister’s apartment in the rain crying. Standing right in front of her was the one and only Hermione Granger. **Wahoo for chpt 16!! Its time to see a little into Astoria's head.. why she acts like she does... When I was actually writing this chapter.. i was obsessed and still is obsessed with this awesome song by Paramore called "All I Wanted".. it goes perfect with what Astoria is going through and what she feels... so ya.. if you haven't heard the song before.. you should really listen to it.. it's a-freakin-mazing! just sayin :) so ya.. what do you guys think.. last half here we go!!! Tell me what you guys think by reviewing and ill see you guys in chpt 17! ~kitty_kat9211** All Hermione wanted was to see what the commotion was going on outside. She was sleeping, in a middle of a good dream when she heard a big continuous banging outside her apartment. All she was going to do was just get a quick sneak peek at what was outside and then quickly go back to the comfort of her bed, dry and all. Hermione had no idea that the one who was making all that noise and ruckus was Astoria Greengrass all wet from the rain pounding on the door of the apartment next to Harry’s and Ginny’s. “Astoria?” When Astoria turned her head Hermione was shocked to see that she was crying. The rain can only hide so much. “Are you ok?” Hermione asked. “Ya I’m fine. Daphne isn’t answering the door. Daphne open up!” Astoria said pounding the door to her sister’s apartment. Hermione couldn’t believe what she was seeing. Not only is Astoria Greengrass standing in right in front of her, but she is soaking wet and crying. “Do you want to come in?” Hermione found herself asking. “No it’s fine, Daphne is going to answer any minute.” Astoria said once again pounding on the door again. “Daphne! Daphne open up!” Astoria really didn’t want to take one foot anywhere with Hermione Granger. “I don’t think she’s gonna open up.” Hermione said “Daphne come on! Open the door!” “She’s not going to open up already! So stop pounding the door already!” “What?” Astoria was shocked. “You woke me up from my sleep, and you’re probably waking up Harry, Ginny and the rest of the people at these apartments up if you keep pounding on someone’s door who is not going to answer. I’m tired and I’m cranky, so please, you are soaking wet, and before I get soaking wet, can you please come inside and dry up?” Astoria couldn’t believe what she was hearing, Hermione Granger had the nerve to talk to her like that? But she was cold, and wet, and some dry clothes would be good about now, cause even though Astoria hated Hermione, she was right. Daphne wasn’t going to open the door. Man, she’s definitely gonna hear about this later. “Fine.” Astoria said giving up. Once they got into the apartment Astoria sat uncomfortably in a seat at the dining room table while Hermione went to her room to find her some dry clothes. When she came out, she had a pair of sweat pants, a blanket and the biggest shirt she could find. “Sorry I couldn’t find something sooner, it was hard finding something to fit around…” “No I understand thank you.” Astoria said knowing she was talking about how Astoria had a bigger chest then Hermione. “Um the bathroom is down that hall second door to the right.” Hermione said. Once Astoria got changed and out of the bathroom the first thing she said was, “Just because I came inside your apartment and put on your clothes doesn’t mean I’m going to tell you anything.” “I didn’t expect you to.” Hermione said handing her a blanket. “Want some tea?” Hermione asked already making some. “But Draco makes me so angry!” Astoria said almost making Hermione jump. “I have worked since year one at Hogwarts to make Draco see me the way I see him. I love him so much. No one loves him more than I do. And for what? To have it all thrown down the drain, I don’t think so. The ones he love is me Hermione, the one he loves is me!” Why do I feel that comment was directly aimed at me? Hermione thought to herself. “You know I’m dating Blaise. That’s the reason why I came to dinner that night, for Blaise, not Draco.” “But there you go, you just called him Draco.” Astoria said catching her. “Well that’s his name.” Hermione tried to argue back. “When did you start to care about that? When did you even start to care about him? Do you know how long he’s cared about you?” Even though Hermione knew the answer, when she didn’t answer back, Astoria continued. “Since year one he’s cared.” Astoria said now crying. “How do you know?” “How do I know? Because I’ve been watching him since my first year.” Astoria said without revealing the argument earlier that night. “I watched him fall in love with you year after year while you didn’t even notice him unless he was making fun of you.” “Then why didn’t he tell me! Instead of just watching me, instead of making fun of me, why didn’t he tell me?” Hermione suddenly said not caring if she wakes Gin and Harry up. “See I was right, you do love him.” Astoria said. Goodness she’s right... Hermione thought to herself. But that’s it, having feelings for someone doesn’t stop or change reality. Right at this very moment, Hermione is having an argument with his fiancé about who Draco really likes. Draco has already made his choice. When Hermione collected her thoughts in her head, she said, “Ya, I may have feelings for Draco, but he already made his choice.” There was no need in denying her feelings to Astoria now. “What do you mean?” “If Draco really liked me as you say, instead of just watching me, he would have done something about it. But instead he didn’t, and he chose you Astoria. You are his fiancé, not me. I am dating Blaise. You may not think I have feelings for him, but I really do. He’s kind, caring, a and a great guy. He makes me smile every time I’m around him. I’m not going to have what happened what happened between me and Ron happen to you.” “Wait, what do you mean, what happened between you guys?” Astoria asked still interested in what really happened so long ago. Hermione really didn’t want to tell her, but if it will convince Astoria, she might as well tell. “Two weeks before my wedding, I found out that during the whole engagement Ron was cheating on me.” Hermione said shortening the story. “He did, with whom?” “That doesn’t matter. My point is that I wouldn’t want what happened between me and Ron happen to anyone, especially if I’m the other woman. So please understand that feelings or no, the one he chose was you, not me. Now come on, it’s late, I’m tired and I bet you are too.” Hermione said finishing her tea. “Wait you letting me sleep here?” Astoria said also finishing her tea. “I’m not going to let you go back out there. It’s late, it’s cold and it’s still raining.” “But why?” “I just told you…” “No, why are you being so nice to me? We just got done arguing but you’re still letting me spend the night? If I were you, I would have kicked me out.” In all honesty, Hermione wanted to kick her out in the cold, but she just couldn’t. The only reason why Astoria is arguing with her is because she’s afraid of losing the man she loves. When she was still with Ron, Hermione knew that if she thought someone was after him, she would have acted the same way. Until recently she had no idea what went on in Draco’s life let alone what Draco’s true feelings were for her, but Astoria knew all along. How did she feel for all those years? “It’s because you’re in love.” She said confusing Astoria said even more. “Now come on, you can sleep on the couch. Here’s a pillow.” Hermione said pulling one out of the closet nearby. “Thank you.” Astoria said once she got situated on the couch. “You’re welcome. Goodnight Astoria.” “Goodnight Hermione.” She said as Hermione walked to her room and closed the door. “It’s because you’re in love.” “So that’s what they see in her.” Astoria whispered to herself before finally going to sleep. **Wahoo for Chpt 17!!! Oooh Ooh OOOOOooooh! Announcement time! As of October 25, 2011, Her Reason to Stay is officially completely written! All I need to do is type it out and make some small grammatical changes (you guys know how well I am with grammer ;D) to the new chapters (i've been literally working on it all day... while watching Grey's Anatomy :D) and then bam! Research and it's Sequel time!! I'm so excited for this sequel.. ive got so many ideas in my head forming for this... and I can't wait to start posting it up on here! I hope you guys like it! But this is me getting too ahead of myself.. so ya.. what do you guys think?? Astoria and Hermione met for a showdown! haha not really... but ya... review? Tell me what you think? And i'll see you guys in Chpt 18! ~kitty_kat9211** London 3 weeks till wedding “Blaise this place is amazing! I never knew it existed until now.” Hermione said looking around the restaurant before taking her seat. “Well they just built this restaurant last year, so it’s pretty new.” Blaise said taking his seat as well. “Oh, that would explain it.” Hermione said as the waiter came up to take their order. Once the waiter left, the couple who usually always had something to talk about had nothing to say. “So, what happened to you this week?” Hermione said finally breaking the ice. “What do you mean?” “I mean, we were going perfectly fine when you suddenly start ignoring all my calls for a week. Then suddenly I get a call from you asking me on a date and to dress nicely. What’s up Blaise?” “After Harry’s and Ginny’s wedding, you’re going back to America right?” Blaise said completely ignoring Hermione’s question. “Yes, we’ve been through this.” “Why?” “Why? Because America is my home now. I have responsibilities there. I can’t let my parents run the shop forever.” “Why don’t you? What about me Hermione? Did you ever think about that when we started dating?” “Well I thought…” “You thought we wouldn’t last this long? If you knew the whole time that you were going to go back, why did you even say yes?” “Blaise what is up with you?” “Was it so you had something to do over the summer? Ooh, or was it because of Draco?” “Draco? What does he have to do with us?” Oh no…Hermione thought to herself. “You know as well as I do what Draco has to do with us. He likes you, did you know that? I bet he’s already told you even though he’s engaged and you’re with me, well I think we’re still together.” “Of course we’re still together Blaise. Where is this all coming from?” No matter how many times she repeated this question… Hermione still knew Blaise would never answer it. Does this have to do with why Astoria was banging on her sister’s apartment door? She never did tell me what exactly happened that night. Hermione thought thinking back to her visit with Astoria. “By the look on your face, I must be correct.” “You know that’s not true.” And before she knew it… Blaise was suddenly out of his seat and in front of her. “Wait, what are you doing?”Hermione said. “Hermione Jean Granger will you marry me?” Blaise asked pulling a ring out of his pocket. Hermione was shocked, but this is not how she wanted someone to propose to her especially in these circumstances. “No.” “Why not?” “We’ve only been dating for about three months.” Hermione said noticing that people were starting to stare. “So, three months is long enough.” “I’m leaving for America after the wedding.” “And this will give you a reason to stay. Come on, what if I came back with you to America, work everything out there and then come back and get married? It will work out Hermione, I promise.” “I…I can’t.” “Why? Is it because of him?” Blaise said standing back up. “No, you know it’s not. The one I like is you Blaise, not Draco.” “Then why won’t you say yes?” “For whatever reason you’re mad, and this is the wrong way to be proposing. Didn’t you say you wanted to pay back Draco for everything he’s done for you?” “Ya, I’m going to pay back Draco for liking my girlfriend. That’s great. Why are you sticking up for him?” “I’m not sticking up for him.” “You like him…don’t you?” “I never said that.” “But I can see it on your face Hermione. Your face says everything.” “You know I like you…” “No I don’t, not anymore.” Hermione couldn’t believe what she was hearing. “You know what? Just call me when you’ve decided who you really like.” “Blaise…” but he had already grabbed his coat and were walking out of the restaurant, right as the food came. “Um, can I get a few boxes for these, and the check?” Hermione said left to pay for the uneaten food. Once she paid for the food and apologized for the inconvenience, Hermione was about to take her leave when she heard a familiar voice. “Hermione?” and as she turned her head she saw the same red shaggy hair and blue eyes that she once fell in love with. “Ron…” **Wahoo for Chpt 18!!! What do you guys think of Blaise's sudden proposal... and the return of Ron! Review and tell me what you think! I hope you guys enjoyed the chapter and ill see you all in Chpt 19!!! ~kitty_kat9211** **warning: substance use/abuse warning in this chapter** “I have to go.” Hermione said turning around to leave. Ron was the last person she wanted to see right now. “Wait… Hermione.” And before she knew it Ron had already walked up to her, grabbed her hand and spun her around to face him. “Let go off me!” Hermione yelled quiet enough that she wouldn’t make another scene in the same night. One was already bad enough. “Not until you agree to have a drink with me. I’ll even pay.” Now Hermione was smarter than Ron thought she was, even Ron knew that, so she couldn’t help but think something was up. “Why would I go have a drink with you? Didn’t you come here with someone? You must have had to; it’s too nice of a restaurant to have come alone. Did you come with Lavender? I’m pretty sure she’s not allowed to drink with your kid inside of her. Where is she anyways? It would make my night even better if I saw her tonight too.” Hermione said trying to shake out of Ron’s tight grip. “Lavender isn’t here. I came here with a bunch of guys to celebrate one of my co-workers birthday.” He knew he deserved that comment so he didn’t say anything to make Hermione more upset with him. “Come on Hermione, you look like you could use a drink or two.” “Who are you to say if I look like I need a drink or not.” Hermione snapped back at him. Even though she didn’t want to agree with him, Ron was right. A drink did sound really good right now. “Ugh fine, only if you let go of my hand.” Hermione said as Ron finally let go of her hand. “Thank you.” Hermione said as Ron let out a small giggle. You haven’t changed a bit Hermione Granger… Once the two sat down at the bar and ordered drinks they both sat in silence. What was there to say with all that’s happened between them? Where to even start? “So… I never asked, what are you doing here anyways? Ron asked once their first round of drinks came. “I was supposed to be here on a date with Blaise after he ignored me for about a week.” Hermione said going straight to her drink. You’re still with him? Ron thought to himself. “He ignored for a whole week? Where is he now?” Ron said trying not to show her his frustration with her last statement. “He… left…” Hermione admitted before finishing her drink. “Oh…do you wanna talk about it?” Ron said watching her order another drink. Looking at Ron, Hermione couldn’t believe that after all that’s happened between them, he still had the nerve to ask her about her current problems (that she wouldn’t be in right now if he didn’t do that to her)… but that’s just Ron’s personality for you. Getting a closer look, Hermione also noticed that from the time she last saw him last to now, Ron really hasn’t changed a bit except for the bruises and black eye that was healing. “…He came in the house a while after you left. He was so angry as he was hitting Ron right in front of everyone. He was screaming at him asking him why he did what he did to you and that’s when we found out the truth.” Draco must have beaten him up pretty good if it’s still healing… Hermione thought to herself blushing. “No, but might as well…” Hermione finally said giving up. It must have been the drinks or something, but soon she found herself telling Ron, her ex fiancé, everything. From what happened with Draco on the hillside, to the dinner at Malfoy Manor. She even told him about her little run in with Astoria Greengrass last week. It was like nothing between them ever happened, and it was just two friends talking about their problems. Oh how Hermione wished it was like that now… but that’s reality. When Hermione was done telling her story she expected Ron to tell her she was crazy or something or she was over reacting to the whole situation, but instead he said, “Well, who do you like better than?” Ever since Ron’s first year, he has hated Draco, Blaise and the rest of their friends for the way they treated him, Hermione and Harry at Hogwarts for so many years. He especially hated the fact that Blaise had the guts to ask Hermione out at the reunion, but he couldn’t tell her that. In all honesty, all he wanted to do right now was beg Hermione for her forgiveness and to please take him back. But he knew he couldn’t do that, Ron had his chance with her two years ago and totally blew it. And what about Lavender? What would happen to her and his baby? Ron knew that night what could possibly happen when they left the reunion early, but he didn’t think it would truly happen. He was upset with the sudden return of Hermione and her new date and he needed something to cheer him up. He had no idea what the consequences of his actions would be until it was too late. So all Ron felt like he could do now was just talk to Hermione in the hope of trying to rebuild that once strong friendship they had so long ago. “That’s the thing, I don’t know anymore.” Hermione said. “Anymore?” “Ya. When I first came back I had planned on just being single but then Blaise came along and I started to have feelings for him, but then the whole thing with Draco…I’m just so confused.” Hermione said already on her third drink. “Well just think about it.” “I am thinking about it Ronald!” Hermione said shutting Ron up. “It’s all I think about. I had this all planned out. Come to London, go to the reunion, go to the wedding, then go back to America. I had no idea all of this would happen.” “…I’m sorry.” Was all Ron could think to say. “For what?” Hermione said testing him. “Everything... If I hadn’t… If what happened between us never happened we wouldn’t be here having this conversation. You wouldn’t be going through what you’re going through and I wouldn’t be an expecting father. I know you’re probably sick of hearing me say this, but I’m so sorry Hermione. We were so happy and I totally ruined it. I even ruined my friendships between Harry and Ginny.” “Wait you’re fighting with Harry and Ginny?” Hermione asked not recalling either Harry or Ginny telling her this important piece of information. “Ya… at the reunion. We got into this big argument and we haven’t spoken or seen each other since.” “Well shouldn’t you go talk to them, especially since the wedding is soon and you’re kind of Harry’s best man?” “He’s probably found someone else to do it.” Ron said starting his third drink. “We both know Harry well enough to know that he’s not that type of guy. Just talk to them Ron.” “But with the wedding wouldn’t they be busy?” “They are never too busy to talk to a friend.” Hermione said starring right at him. Ron was about to try to make up another excuse when Hermione suddenly said, “Oh goodness…look at the time, I better get going.” “Um ya… same here. Let me walk you out.” Ron said as he followed her out the restaurant doors. “They are never too busy to talk to a friend.” How does she have the time to worry about my problems when she has her own problems to worry about? “Hey Hermione?” “Ya?” “With your situation, just follow what your heart tells ya. You’re a smart girl and you always go with what your head says. Maybe this time you should go with what your heart says.” Ron said. “And you should talk to Harry and Ginny. They can’t be mad at you forever.” Hermione said. “Only if you put up you’re part of the deal.” Ron said jokingly. After a few moments of laughs it was getting late and it was time for them to part. “So I guess this is goodnight....” Hermione said not knowing how to end their conversation. “Ya…Goodnight Hermione.” It took all of Ron’s might to stop him from hugging Hermione like he used to before but he stopped himself as they both turned around and started walking in the opposite direction of each other. “Goodbye Hermione.” Ron said before he disappeared “…Maybe this time you should go with what your heart says.” “Goodbye Ron.” Hermione said with a tear rolling down her cheek as she disappeared in the night unseen by the muggles around her. **Wahoo for Chpt 19!!! :D... I know some of the readers have been asking for a little bit of Ron's P.O.V.. so here ya go :D I hope it was worth the wait! I just wanted to remind you all that you guys are a-freakin-mazing and you guys always know how to make me smile with your reviews :D.. so ya.. u all rock! So ya... please review (every review counts) and i guess this is goodbye for now... see ya in chpt 20!! :o 20!!!! oh goodness... chuckles... love you all! ~kitty_kat9211** London, Harry and Ginny’s Apartment 2 weeks till wedding “Hermione dinner is ready!” Ginny said knocking on her door to see her sitting on the edge of her bed. “Did you hear me? Dinner is ready if you’re hungry.” “Oh… yea. Sorry, I’m not that hungry tonight.” Hermione finally answered. “But it’s your favorite. You always eat it, even when you’re not hungry. What’s wrong? You’ve been sitting in your room all week.” Ginny said. “It’s nothing.” Hermione lied. “Hermione, did Blaise break up with you?”Ginny asked. “No.” Hermione answered quietly. “Did you break up with him?” “No.” Hermione answered right away. “Then what is it then?” and after a few moments of silence Hermione finally answered… “He…he asked me to marry him.” “Really, that’s awesome! Wait… Aren’t you happy? He proposed and you’ve been sitting around for the past week.” “I said no.” “Why? Is it because you think it’s too early to be getting engaged again? It’s been two years Hermione. I think that’s long enough.” “That’s not it.” “Then why?” “Because….because of Draco Malfoy.” “Oh...” Ginny said sitting next to her. “What?” Hermione said a little shocked to Ginny’s reaction. “Well, what did Malfoy do? Did he black mail you into saying no? Cause if he did I will march right to…” “Gin, he didn’t. He wouldn’t do that, he’s better than that.” “Wait, we are talking about the same Draco Malfoy right? The one who has been calling you ‘mudblood’ since…well since forever?” “Ya…” “What have you not been telling me Hermione Jean Granger?” Ginny asked. “It’s a long story.” “We got time.” “But what about dinner? I bet Harry is hungry.” “Well if Harry is hungry, he’s a big enough boy that he could get it himself. And besides, this is much more important. Now tell me.” “Alright…” as Hermione started to tell her best friend what has been really going on this past summer. Throughout the time Hermione was telling her story, Ginny was listening, but she couldn’t stop thinking about their time at Hogwarts. When Hermione told her that the reason why she said no to Blaise was because of Draco Malfoy, Ginny acted like she was surprised, but really she knew what was going on with Malfoy since the beginning. Even though Ginny didn’t want to admit it to herself, but during Hogwarts she would catch Hermione starring at Malfoy at dinner with the look on her face Ginny couldn’t exactly put her finger on. Why is she starring at him like that? Ginny would always think to herself. So she kept an eye on Malfoy, watching him like a hawk looking for food. That’s when Ginny started to catch Malfoy also starring at Hermione. He did a lot more than she did, but they both had that same look on their faces when they looked at each other. It wasn’t during Ginny’s third year when she finally could understand why they looked at each other the way they did. It was like they wanted something they both knew they couldn’t have. So instead of going after each other, they went after other people. Hermione went to Ron and Malfoy threw himself at any Slytherin girl that looked at him. Over the years though, Ginny would still find them starring at each other. At one moment, Malfoy would be calling her a “mudblood” and Hermione would be calling him a “cockroach” and the next they would be starring at each other at dinner. Like Ron, Harry and the rest of the Gryffindor house, Ginny hates the Slytherin house, especially Draco Malfoy for the way he treats her and her friends. Gryffindors hate how cocky and how high Slytherins think of themselves and Slytherins think that Gryffindors engage in pointless heroics. It’s just tradition that Gryffindors and Slytherins are naturally born enemies. For a Gryffindor like Hermione Granger and a Slytherin like Draco Malfoy to get together would be going against everything that they believed in. What would her fellow Gryffindor friends think of Hermione if she and Draco dated, let alone a Slytherin. What would Malfoy’s Slytherin friends think of him dating a “mudblood”? Is that the reason why they don’t get together…because of what others would think of it? Ginny found herself thinking one day. Thinking about it… it makes sense. Hermione got together with Ron because of yes, she had feelings for him, but also because Ron was a fellow Gryffindor and apart of the Golden Trio. Hermione chose the safe choice. Even though Ginny did hate Draco Malfoy for how he treated them at Hogwarts, somewhere inside her, she felt sorry for him. It wasn’t his choice to be a Malfoy, he was born into the Malfoy family and was forced to carry all the responsibilities as a one. Until recently, Ginny didn’t realize that just making fun of her and her friends was a part of being a fullblood Malfoy. Calling Hermione a “mudblood” is what people expect Malfoy to do. But Ginny only felt sorry for him a little. If Malfoy really likes Hermione like she thinks he does, instead of caring about what his family name is or what other Slytherins would think, he should have gone after her. But that never happened, and what happened between Ron and Hermione happened and Malfoy found himself engaged. But then at the reunion, a certain Slytherin named Blaise Zabini comes along and confuses Ginny even more. Why did Hermione say yes to him anyways? Is it because she felt lonely after 2 years or is she now finding out she doesn’t have to resort to a Gryffindor like her brother? The main question really was did Hermione ever realize her feelings for Malfoy when she starred at him or did she just realize her feelings for him years later when it was already too late? Did she even realize that she was staring at him let alone how much she did? Hermione Granger is the smartest and most talented witch Ginny has ever known, but when it comes to love, and especially Draco Malfoy, it was like she was a little toddler learning how to walk. “I just don’t know anymore Gin. I don’t wanna break up his engagement and I don’t wanna hurt Blaise but…” Ginny didn’t even realize that Hermione had already finished her story. What’s going to happen now that she has realized her true feelings for him? Ginny thought to herself. “Well maybe you should stop worrying about everyone else’s feelings and start worrying about your own?” Hermione was shocked. She was completely convinced that Ginny was going to tell her that her feelings for Draco were completely stupid (that’s what kept her from telling her before) and that she should tell Blaise yes and be happy with him, but just like her brother, Hermione was left surprised once again. It must be a Weasley thing. “But…” “You’re the smartest and the most talented witch I know, but when it comes to things like love…you could use some help.” “I’m confused…what do you mean?” “Back at Hogwarts, I would catch you starring at him, Draco I mean, without you realizing you were doing it. He stared at you as well…” Did I really stare at him that much? Hermione thought to herself. “So what do I do then?” Hermione asked. “That’s for you to decide.” “But…” “I know it’s hard, and someone might get hurt, but you’ll know what to do. Just listen to your heart.” Ginny said heading towards the door. “Dinner will be on the table if you decide you’re hungry.” Ginny said before leaving Hermione alone again. “I’m trying.” Hermione whispered lying on her bed even more confused than before. ~*~*~*~*~*~ Malfoy Manor, Wiltshire, England 2 weeks till wedding It’s almost been about 3 weeks since the night of the big fight and the three have barley said a word since. In the beginning, Astoria tried to talk with Draco, but he would just ignore her so Astoria just stayed away. Blaise and Draco wouldn’t even look at each other. If it wasn’t for the low amount of money he had, debt or no debt, he would have moved out already. Ever since the failed proposal with Hermione, all Blaise does anymore is lock himself in his room thinking and regretting his past choices. She was right, it was definitely not the right time to propose to her. Blaise thought beating himself for doing it. After the argument with Draco, Blaise stormed out of the house and went to the local bar to try to drink the night away. Hours later, with a few drinks in his stomach and a smaller wallet, Blaise left the bar and headed home with a idea in his head that would solve all of his problems. When he got home he was glad to see Draco already asleep and Astoria out of the house because with how many drinks he had, he wouldn’t be able to stop himself from punching Draco in the face if he saw him again. The next morning when Blaise knew Draco was still sleeping (Astoria was strangely still gone) with a slight headache, he got up and set out to put plan into action. What he didn’t think of back then was the chance that his plan could and did go wrong and was now left with his wallet emptier and no finger for the ring to be put on. Thinking about it now, Blaise was glad the mansion was so big and spread out so no one could hear him crying. *~*~* In the 23 years that Draco Malfoy has been alive, he has never felt more alone than he has the past few weeks. Blaise wouldn’t even look at him, and every time Astoria would try to talk to him he would ignore her because he felt so guilty towards her. He couldn’t look at her and see the hurt on her face. Draco has thought about breaking off the engagement since that night, but he couldn’t do that to Astoria. That would just hurt her even more than he already has. Especially with everything they’ve been through in the past few years. All of that just to be wasted now? During his time of need during the war, who was there for him? Astoria was. And this is how he pays her back years later? But with his feelings for Hermione, the feelings he’s had since year one, wouldn’t he just be hurting Astoria even more if he didn’t break off the engagement? How would she feel marrying someone whose heart wasn’t fully hers? By breaking off the engagement, it might hurt in the beginning, but at least she would be able to move on and find someone who will love her fully. He hasn’t even seen Hermione since the dinner, how is he supposed to act around her when he sees her again at the wedding? Draco had no idea what to do as he lay on his bed confused and even more alone. ~*~*~*~*~*~ **Wahoo for Chpt 20! Oh goodness to think that we only have 10 more chapters yet... exciting but yet scary at the same time!!!!! So what do you guys think of this chpt? Not only do you get the normal Hermione's and Draco's point of view... but you get a little bit of what's goin on in Ginny's and Blaise's minds... do you guys like it?? Tell me what you guys think by reviewing and ill see you in Chpt 21! ~kitty_kat9211** London, Harry and Ginny’s Apartment 1week till wedding “What are you doing here? Hey! I didn’t let you in…” Hermione heard Ginny yelling early in the morning waking her up from another sleepless night. What’s going on? Hermione thought throwing the covers off. “Ron, get out of my apartment! What if Hermione…Hermione!” Ginny screamed once she saw Hermione enter the room. “What’s going on here?” Harry said seeing Ron and then Hermione in the same room. “I’m not here for Hermione.” Ron said ignoring his sister who was trying to push him out the door. “Then why are you here then…other than to piss me off more than I already am.” Ginny said. “I’m here to talk to you and Harry.” “About what?” “About the reunion.” “What about it?” “Ginny…” “Let him talk Gin.” Harry said. “Thanks…” Ron said to Harry. “But what about Hermione?” Ginny asked. “It was her idea for me to talk to you guys.” Ron said. “I’ll explain everything to you later. Right now you guys need to listen to what he has to say.” Hermione said starting to head back to her room tired “So are you two good then?” Ginny asked causing her to turn back around. “No…” Hermione said seeing Ron’s smile drop. “…but it’s a good start.” “Well…what do you have to say for yourself Ronald?”was the last thing Hermione heard from Ginny before she shut the door to her room. Getting in bed and closing her eyes, all she could see was a certain head of bleach blonde hair and silver eyes staring at her. Hermione take my hand… Ok maybe sleeping wasn’t a great idea… Hermione thought leaning against the edge of her bed. I can’t believe Ron actually took my advice… In all honesty, seeing Ron twice in a span of two weeks was almost too much for her to handle. But she was happy to see Ron willing to make up with Ginny and Harry. She was also happy that Ron was so willing to try to rebuild his friendship with her. Yea, they had a lot of work to do and they both knew that they would never have the same friendship they had before, but Hermione wasn’t lying when she said that it was a good start. One day she could see her and Ron being friends again. One day maybe she could even see herself trying to be friends again with Lavender Brown…but that was getting a little too ahead of herself. What would have happened if I never came back…? Hermione thought to herself. If she never had come back Hermione would have never had the chance to start rebuilding her friendship with him. Honestly, if she never came back, Hermione would have never had the chance to do a lot of things this summer. From missing out to attending a great reunion to seeing two of her best friends get married, she even have would have missed out on dating Blaise and seeing how he’s really a great guy. “You know what? Just call me when you’ve decided who you really like.” How is he doing? Hermione thought to herself as thoughts of that night drifted back to her head. It’s been about a week since Blaise left Hermione in the restaurant and since then they haven’t spoke to each other. Hermione was afraid that if she tried to contact him, the two would get into another argument. By getting into contact with Blaise when she still hasn’t made her choice would just make their situation worse for the both of them. If she talked to him, he would expect an answer and no matter how hard she thinks about it, Hermione would still have one. So contacting him when was out of the question. If you base your answer off of logic and plain facts, her answer would be plain and simple. Hermione is already dating Blaise, Draco is engaged to Astoria, and according to her last conversation with Astoria, Astoria wasn’t going to break off her engagement anytime soon. So shouldn’t Hermione just say yes to Blaise. What’s stopping her? “You’re a smart girl and you always go with what your head says. Maybe this time you should go with what your heart says.” Ok Ron, let’s see if this works… Almost instantly after, her thoughts wandered to her time at Hogwarts. How every time he entered the room her heart would skip a beat. How it hurt her to see him hook up with a different girl every night. How even though he went through the trouble just to find her and call her a ‘mudblood’, she went through the trouble just to find him so she could hear him call her one. Everyone was convinced that Hermione hated him throughout Hogwarts, she even had to convince herself sometimes that hate was the only emotion she felt towards him. He’s a Slytherin, a cocky full blood, and he hates my friends…I have no room but to hate him! Hermione would think to herself, but that’s what logic was telling her. Who knew for so many years her heart was trying to tell her something; it wasn’t until now that Hermione stopped fighting it and listened to what it had to say. From the day he first called her a ‘mudblood’ to the day he told her his true feelings, Hermione’s feelings towards Draco Malfoy were much more than just hate. It wasn’t until long until old habits came creeping back. He chose Astoria. The one he’s going to marry is her…not me. Hermione sadly thought. That night when Astoria came to the apartment, what Hermione told her was the truth. To break up an engagement, Hermione would never do that, not even if it means not having the chance to be with the one she truly loves. But to be with someone you truly don’t love is also just as bad, and Hermione doesn’t want to put Blaise through that. By marrying Blaise, that would hurt him much more than just telling him she couldn’t marry him. At least then Blaise has the chance to find someone who could and will love him more than she could. So what’s their left to do? After a week of trying to find the answer, finally she had her answer. Now all she had to do was tell it to him and prepare herself for the consequences that come with her choice. “Hermione, can you come here please?” she heard Ginny say snapping her out of her thoughts. “Coming!” Hermione called back. Walking out of her room, Hermione thought she was dreaming. Standing in the kitchen was Ron, Harry, Ginny talking and laughing like their argument never happened. But then she realized that she wasn’t dreaming because if she was dreaming she would be seeing Draco instead of them. “You actually came out!” Ginny said happily running up to hug Hermione. “So I’m guessing Ron is still Harry’s best man?” Hermione asked walking up to the counter. “Yea…it never changed.” Harry said. “Good.” Hermione said looking at Ron’s smiling face. Sitting around the table, Hermione never wanted this moment to end. Hermione didn’t want her time back to ever end… but she has made her choice, and sometimes all good things have to come to an end. **Wahoo for chpt 21!! FINALLY! I want to apologize for such the long wait... ive been so busy with work... but hey.. better late than never right ;). well here it is... all the Ron fans rejoice!! ...kinda.. chuckles but its a start :D well what do u think? review and tell me what u think! i apologize once more but i still hope you enjoy!! See you in chpt 22!! When Hermione's choice finally comes out!! ~kitty_kat9211** London 1 day till wedding When Blaise got the phone call from Hermione earlier in the week saying how she wanted to meet, he wanted to meet her as soon as possible. But since Hermione still had things to work out before the wedding, they scheduled the date for later. Now that the day has arrived, even though he was nervous to hear her answer, Blaise just wanted to see her again. To see her long brown curls and her smile again, to hear her laugh ringing through his ears. The past week with no contact just didn’t seem right. Hours before the time they decided to meet, Blaise was already up, dressed and ready; all he had to do was wait. Oh how he hated waiting, especially when it was for something as important as this. “Where are you going in such a hurry?” Blaise heard as he was finally heading out the door. “Out…” Blaise said hurrying his way past Astoria. “To see her?” But Blaise already had his shoes on and was out the door. Arriving at the café, he was happy to know that he had arrived before Hermione did. Sitting at the same table, at the same little café, it was just like the last time they came, but this time they weren’t here to look at a picture book. Thinking about what her answer would be, Blaise just immediately expected that she would choose him in the end. But now that he was there waiting for her answer, Blaise started to think about the other options she had. What if she ends up choosing him? She wouldn’t do that…we’ve been dating for three months now…and he’s engaged. She wouldn’t break up an engagement… would she? But right away Blaise shook that thought out of his head. No, she’s not that type of girl. But what if she is? How would I react? There were too many bad thoughts running in his mind at once. After a few long minutes of racing back and forth between thoughts, Blaise looked over to see Hermione walking through the café’s entrance. “Hey.” He said getting up to kiss her on the cheek once she reached the table. “Hey.” Hermione said nervously taking her seat. She looks nervous…do I look nervous? Can she tell I’m nervous? Just breathe. He thought to himself sitting down again. “How have you been this past week?” Hermione started. Horrible…I’ve missed you so much this past week and I should have never left you like I did, is what Blaise really wanted to say but instead he said, “Good, how about you?” “Fine.” Hermione said flat out lying to him. Getting a good look at her, Blaise noticed right away Hermione wasn’t anywhere near fine. Usually when the two met up, Hermione made sure her hair was down (Blaise loves her hair down) and her make up on, but with how much sleep Hermione has had in the past week and half, no amount of hair product, make up, or even any charm could hide the fact that she was tired. How much sleep have you been getting recently? Blaise asked Hermione in his head. After a few moments of complete silence and the arrival of their drinks, Blaise found himself getting a little impatient waiting for Hermione to tell him her choice. It can’t be taking her this long to tell me she chose me. Unless… But this time Blaise didn’t shake his head of thoughts of her not choosing him. Instead they came back with a sense of revenge. If she truly chose me over him, then why did it take her a week to contact me again? Why does she look like she hasn’t slept in days but then flatly tells me she’s fine? Are you really choosing someone who has already someone else? “Blaise…” Hermione said interrupting his thoughts. “Yes?” Here we go… “I like you a lot. We’ve had so many good memories together…” “But you like him more.” Blaise finished for her. “When I said I was fine, I lied. In all honesty I feel tired and what’s worse I feel horrible. You were right, I do like Draco, and it wasn’t until recently that I realized I have liked Draco for a while. So I’m sorry Blaise, I can’t marry you.” Hermione finally told him. It took him a few moments to process what she just said and but once he got all of his thoughts together there was only one thing Blaise could think of to ask. “So what are you going to do now? Try to break off his engagement with Astoria?” “No. I would never put Astoria through that pain.” “Then what? Watch him be happy with another woman? You deserve to be happy Hermione. Why can’t you just marry me then? I’ll make you happier than he could. Please…” Blaise wasn’t about to give up on her yet. “I can’t put you through that kind of pain either!” Hermione suddenly shouted. “Hermione…” Blaise was caught off guard. “It wouldn’t be fair for you going into a marriage like this…a marriage like that isn’t a happy one.” “And what if I said we could make it work. We could be happy. You just have to say yes Hermione.” Blaise challenged. “You’re making this harder and harder for me to do this you know?” “I’m glad. Now say yes.” ‘Blaise, you’ve been wonderful. You took me out of the depression I had from Ron. I’m never going to forget what we had once I go back…” “Wait…go back? You’re going back?” Blaise said as Hermione shook her head in agreement. Blaise hated this choice even more than her choosing Draco over him. “Ya…it sounds like I am.” Hermione said. “Are you ever gonna come back?” Blaise couldn’t help but ask. “I’m not sure...maybe if we have another reunion…” Hermione said. “That’s another five years Hermione…are you willing to wait that long?” “If nothing happens in that time span, than if I have to, yes. By then you better be married, happy and have at least one kid, maybe two.” “Hermione no…” “Promise me that by the next time we see each other you’ll be happy.” Hermione said hoping he will just simply say yes. “And what about you? Will you be happy with your decision in that time?” Blaise asked. “Probably not, but do I have any other choices?” Hermione honestly said. “Yea you do…” “No I don’t Blaise. I can’t hurt you or Astoria like that…I just can’t.” “So then hurt me Hermione.” “Blaise please…” “Hurt me Hermione…” “I can’t!” Hermione said with tears rolling down her cheeks. “So this is it? Is this is really goodbye?” Blaise asked afraid he was about to cry as well. “I’m afraid so. I’ll see you at the wedding though, right?” Hermione said trying to find some happiness in this goodbye. “Ya…can I ask you a favor though?” Blaise asked. “Anything.” Hermione cautiously said expecting the worst. “Save me at least one dance at the wedding. Like at the reunion. I don’t want this to be our last memory together.” “I would love to.” Hermione said with a smile as tears continued to run down her cheeks. Goodbye Hermione…Blaise thought to himself as he felt tears finally falling down his own cheeks. Malfoy Manor, Wiltshire, England A few hours later When Blaise got back from his last date with Hermione he was shocked to see Draco out of his room sitting in the living room reading a book. “…You were right, I do like Draco, and it wasn’t until recently that I realized I have liked Draco for a while.” “Blaise…” but before Draco could say anything more, Blaise had already walked up to him, punched him as hard as he could in the stomach and headed to his room leaving Draco on the floor to weak to move back on the couch. ~*~*~*~*~*~ **Wahoo for Chpt 22! And FINALLY! It's been a while hasn't it? And let me say HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Hope everyones 2012 is going great so far... mine has been fantastic... in a sarcastic way ;) <---tehe. 2011 has been a very big year for me... not only did i graduate from high school but i started writing again and who knew by this time i would b almost finished posting my first (and not last...dont worry) fanfiction!! I know i do this a lot... but to all my readers out there i wanna thank you guys. after a long and stressful day at work its nice to come home to some awesome reviews from u guys! u guys as always rock my socks off. So heres to a new year with more chapters... a sequel ;) and hopefully more reviews! Getting back on topic (sorry for the little rant there) was the wait worth it?? Review and tell me what you think about Hermione's decision :). Once again have a great new year and ill see ya guys in Chpt 23! Getting close to the end guys!! ~kitty_kat9211** London, Harry and Ginny’s Apartment Later on that Night After her official break up with Blaise, all Hermione wanted to do was go back to the apartment, crawl up in her bed and cry. But with Ginny’s bachelorette party that night and the wedding in a few days, Hermione would have to save her tears for when she got back to America. It wasn’t until she got back to the apartment that she realized how late it was so right away Hermione changed into her outfit that consisted of name brand jeans, a colorful tank top and a black business coat. This was the outfit I was planning on wearing to the reunion…until Ginny stopped me. Hermione found herself thinking while fixing her hair. I was actually wondering if you wanted to dance. If I ended up wearing this outfit instead of the white dress, would Blaise have had approached me? Maybe I should have worn this instead. Hermione thought to herself but right away she shook those thoughts out of her head. The Blaise I knew in Hogwarts may have done that but not the Blaise I know now. Not my Blaise. But right after thinking that, Hermione felt tears forming in her eyes knowing that Blaise wasn’t hers anymore. No Hermione, hold them in. And with that, Hermione shook the sad thoughts out of her head and finished getting ready. By the time Hermione was out of her ready, everyone was already there sitting in the living room. “Hermione, long time no see!” Luna Lovegood said getting up once seeing Hermione enter the room. “Since the reunion hasn’t it.” Hermione said hugging her. Looking at the group, Fleur Weasley was sitting next to Luna, Angelina Weasely was on the other side of her and sitting on the loveseat across them was shockingly Cho Chang. “Ginny said there were seven of us including her…so where’s the last person?” Hermione said noticing Ginny also gone. “Oh, Ginny said…” “Sorry I’m late!” Hermione suddenly heard shuddering at the voice she recognized. “Sorry guys had to go get her. Thanks for waiting though.” Ginny said not excited to have picked up a two month pregnant Lavender Brown. “She’s coming?” Hermione whispered to Ginny once Lavender sat down, apparently exhausted from the short walk to the loveseat. “I know, but Fleur and Angelina are here, so I had to invite her as well.” “But…” “I know… I don’t want her here either.” Ginny whispered. “Well at least we won’t have to worry about dealing with her drunk…” Hermione said causing both of them to giggle. Great, not only do I have to control myself from bursting out crying, now I have to hold back the urge to punch her. Hermione thought to herself. “Well now that everyone is here, shall we have some fun tonight?” Ginny said excited for the night ahead of her. Hermione wasn’t going to let one annoying, hormone raged git ruin her one chance of having fun before going back to reality, all she had to do was just ignore her and hope she wouldn’t do anything to piss her off. No Lavender Brown was going to ruin her night. No thoughts of the relationship that just ended or thoughts of the relationship that could never happen were going to ruin it either. Tonight was her night with the girls. “Let’s go!” Hermione said. Tonight was her night to forget what caused her pain and just let go. She had plenty of time after to worry and weep over reality after tonight so might as well have fun before she has to face it. **Wahoo for Chapt 23... finally! Sorry about such the long wait.. I have recently been so busy with work and things.. I just couldn't fit it in.. But hey.. im back... with what I say is one of the worst and shortest chapter in the book... But hey.. It is a chapter that has to happen.. and besides after this.. its finally wedding time :)). So for now... please just bare with me and be kind. I hope you all had a wonderful Valentines Day... and St.Patricks Day... and even a wonderful Mother's Day! Until then.. Enjoy ;) ~kitty_kat9211** The Burrow 3 hours before wedding Today is the big day. After weeks of stressing out planning, Hermione was finally going to see Ginny and Harry get married. Hermione couldn’t believe how fast these past two months have flown by. It only felt like yesterday when Hermione first stepped into the apartment and was now at the Burrow getting ready for the wedding. But with the wedding also comes with a goodbye and around this time tomorrow, Hermione would be on her way to the airport leaving to go back to America. So much has happened during this summer. From the good to the bad, everything has lead up to this day. Will Draco be there? Will Astoria be there with him? How will I react when I see him now I know my true feelings? Questions like these popped into her head while Hermione started getting ready but was shortly interrupted when the bride ran in her room dress on and hair in curlers. “What’s wrong?” Hermione asked. “Last night Mum and I spent hours trying to find the perfect hairstyle, so she was supposed to be doing my hair right now but then she found out the tent we are using has suddenly disappeared so Mum and Dad are out looking for it cause if we don’t find it we won’t have a tent and if we don’t have a tent it might rain and…” “Whoa, whoa, whoa Gin calm down! You’re saying too much too fast. Just sit down, breathe and tell me what’s wrong.” Hermione said starting to stress out as well. “Mum can’t do my hair because she has to find the missing tent!” Ginny said now almost crying. “Why don’t you just let me do it?” “Really? Wait… you still need to get ready.” Ginny said. “I’ll be fine. For many occasions you’ve gone out of your way to help me with my hair so it’s my turn. I may not be as good as you, but I will sure try.” Hermione said not knowing what she was getting herself into. “Oh Hermione, you’re awesome!” Ginny said bringing her into a hug with tears of joy running down her cheeks. “Now, you wipe those tears before they get all over your dress. Let’s make the prettiest bride Harry has ever seen.” Hermione said hoping she wouldn’t mess this up. ~*~*~*~*~*~ The Burrow 10 minutes before wedding Sure enough in time the tent was found and everything was set for the wedding with not a rain cloud in sight. Walking inside the tent Draco, followed by Astoria and Blaise, noticed there was a lot of people filling up the seats. “Here are some seats.” Astoria said sitting, the boys taking their seats on each side of her. Ever since the day Blaise punched Draco in the stomach, Draco has found Blaise coming out of his room more often, even when Draco was in the same room. They aren’t for very long, Blaise even looks at Draco every so often, but it’s a start. With Blaise coming out more often, Draco felt the need to reach out to Astoria again instead of ignoring her. He needed to put aside the feeling of guilt every time he saw her, but in all honesty, Draco missed Astoria. The way she lit up the room with her laugh and beautiful smile. The way her eyes sparkled at him when they talked, he hasn’t heard a word from her since the night of the argument. So instead of awkwardly sleeping closer to the edge of their large bed for the past few weeks, Draco slept closer to Astoria wrapping his arms around her. “I miss you.” Draco whispered in her ear. Since that night, Astoria gradually started opening up again until she was the same bubbly happy Astoria Draco fell in love with. It was like the whole argument and the last month of not speaking ever happened. Getting ready for the wedding this morning, it truly felt like old times, arguing over time in the bathroom, simple things like that. “Draco, aren’t the decorations beautiful?” Astoria asked leaning in towards him. Looking around he noticed that everything was white. The only things that weren’t white were the green grass under them and the clear chandeliers hanging above them. “Ya it is…but you look even more beautiful.” Draco said grabbing her hand. While Draco and Blaise came to the wedding in black suits, white shirts and black ties, Astoria was wearing a short grey and maroon polka dotted dress that went to her knees. The sleeves reached mid length, and the dress hung low enough to show a little cleavage. Her long black hair was pulled in a low bun, her make-up was natural, and long dangly gold earrings rested on her shoulders. “Aw thanks Draco.” Astoria said embarrassed. After a few moments of silence, Draco noticed a few familiar faces walking to the altar. Harry was wearing a black suit with a white shirt and a white tie to go with the white theme. Standing next to him, Ron was wearing a black suit also, but his jacket was unbuttoned so you could see the black vest under it. His black eye healed nicely. Draco thought to himself laughing a little as the ceremony was finally starting. First to walk the aisle was Bill, George, Percy and Charlie Weasley…so pretty much all the Weasley brothers except Ron. Following behind was the two bridesmaids, Fleur and Angelina Weasley in light green dresses and a bouquet of white flowers. The next to walk up the aisle made Draco’s heart skip a beat. Hermione… Draco thought to himself as he tightened his grip on Astoria’s hand. Also wearing a light green dress, Hermione’s brown hair was down and in elegant curls. Her make-up was natural enough for her brown eyes to pop out. It’s been more than a month since the last time Draco has seen Hermione; does she even know he’s even here right now? Look this way…just for a moment please just look this way. Draco found himself thinking. Someone must have heard his plea because right after Draco had that thought, Hermione turned her head right to Draco but turned away right after as her cheeks became red with embarrassment. After Hermione walked to her spot, the flower girl and ring bearer walked up the aisle and then everyone in the room suddenly stood out of their seats as the bride escorted by her father entered. Ginny Weasley was wearing a long strapless flowing dress with a white flower that matched the decorations. Her long red hair was curled and pulled in a low bun with a white matching flower pinned in it and sparkling silver earrings. “Beautiful.” Astoria whispered as they walked past where they were sitting. Once they reached the groom, with a hug and a kiss on the cheek, Arthur Weasley proudly gave his only daughter to a happy Harry Potter and took his seat next to his wife. Even though everyone’s eyes were on the girl wearing white, try as he might to do the same thing, Draco’s eyes were on a certain girl in a green dress. “Welcome, we are gathered here today to witness the joining of Ginerva Molly Weasley and Harry James Potter….” Show time… and for the rest of the ceremony, Draco tried to keep his attention on the happy couple instead of the maid of honor. ~*~*~*~*~*~* **Wahoo for Chpt 24! And Wahoo for a wedding!! Finally right? ;) Chuckles. So what do you guys think?? This chapter is a lot longer ;) so I hope you enjoy!!! :) 6 more chapters left! :ooooo!!! Hope everyone had a wonderful Earth Day.. I know I did ;) HAPPY BDAY MAMMA! tehehe. Until Chpt 25... ~kitty_kat9211** After the Ceremony… “Hermione, there you are!” Ginny said once finding Hermione by the dance floor. “Gin, congrats! The ceremony was beautiful.” Hermione said. “Wasn’t it? I almost cried in the middle of it! Thank you again for doing my hair in such short notice. I’ve been getting so many compliments on it!” “Really?” Hermione was shocked. “Yea, even Mum gave me a compliment. She said that you did it better than she ever could.” Ginny said. After a few moments of silence Hermione got to thinking, “Do you think your parents will ever forgive Ron? I mean, I haven’t fully forgiven him yet, but I’m starting to. Shouldn’t they?” “You know my parents, especially Mum. What Ron did to her really hurt her. It’s going to take a while for her to forgive him.” “But it’s been almost 2 months!” “I know…” Not only did Hermione, Ginny, and Harry come to the Burrow to get ready, everyone did. If you were in the wedding, you were getting ready at the Burrow. It was like a big family reunion! So of course, Ron being Harry’s best man, Ron was also there as well as Lavender. The last time Ron has seen his parents, let alone the Burrow was the day he got kicked out. “Hopefully the wedding will calm down Mum’s anger… well I hope it does.” Ginny said worried. “Same here Gin…” Hermione said. “Ginny, there you are! Hey Hermione.” Harry said sneaking up behind his new wife. “Hello Harry. Congrats again!” Hermione said giving her best friend a hug. “Thanks.” Harry said with a smile. “Did you want something?” Ginny asked. “Um, I want to be with my new wife on our wedding day, but someone keeps sneaking off.” “Well I’m sorry, I had to thank Hermione again for saving me again. You know she was the one who did my hair today.” “She did…I thought Mum did it.” “No… she had to find the tent. So at the last minute, Hermione did it. Didn’t she do it wonderfully?” Ginny said showing off her hair again. “Yes, she did it beautifully.” Harry said. “Thanks.” Hermione said feeling a little blush on her cheeks. “Anyways, the dj is about to set up so Mum thinks it would be a good idea to have our first dance soon…get the dancing started she says.” “Well… are you asking me to dance?” Ginny asked teasing. “Well Mrs. Potter, If I may, may I have the honor in having a dance with you?” Harry said holding his hand out. “Only if it’s alright with Hermione.” Ginny turned and Hermione nodded with approval. “Well then, I would love to Mr. Potter.” Ginny said taking his hand. As the newlyweds walked hand in hand to the middle of the dance floor, all of the guests gathered around to watch. “We now welcome Mr. and Mrs. Harry James Potter to the dance floor with their first dance.” The dj said starting the music. Once the dancing started, Hermione couldn’t help but to overhear whispers around her. “Isn’t she beautiful? I love her dress.” One lady said. “Yes, and her hair. I wonder who did it.” Another said causing Hermione to blush. Watching two of her best friends dance, Hermione couldn’t help but stand in awe. Everything they’ve been through together…finally leads up to this. She thought to herself. From the war with Lord Voldemort to Cho Chang and Dean Thomas, Hermione knew that eventually, Harry and Ginny were going to get together. When she still thought that she was going to spend the rest of her life with Ron, not only was she ready to be a Weasley, but she was ready to be together with her best friends forever. Two years later, and so much has happened since, but Harry and Ginny survived it. Through thick and thin, Harry and Ginny’s love stayed strong. When one was weak, the other was there to pick the other back up. Hermione couldn’t help to feel a little jealous of them. “We now invite family, friends and guests to join the happy couple on the dance floor.” The dj said as couples around went together and joined them. “Hello Hermione.” Blaise said walking up to Hermione like he did the night of the reunion. “Um, hi Blaise. What brings you over here?” Hermione said reenacting that night. Once Blaise got the drift, Blaise played along by saying, “I’m over here to talk to you of course. I was actually wondering if you wanted to dance.” “I would love to dance with you.” As Blaise let out a grin. “Great.” Blaise said reaching his hand out, Hermione gladly taking it. Once they got to the dance floor, Blaise placed his hand on her hip, Hermione placed her hand on his shoulder, and hand in hand they started dancing. “I’m warning you right now that I haven’t set foot on a dance floor since the Yule Ball 4th year, so I’m sorry if I step on your toes.” Hermione said jokingly. “It’s alright, just follow my lead.” Blaise said pulling her closer. After a few moments of just looking at each other, Blaise asked, “So…when are you leaving?” “Tomorrow.” Hermione answered sadly. “Tomorrow?! What time?” “Around nine.” “PM?” he asked with hope. “No Blaise, AM.” “Why so early?” “So no one will have the chance to stop me.” “Hermi…” “And besides, Harry and Ginny will already be on their honeymoon. It would be awkward being by myself in the apartment.” Hermione said trying to laugh. “So you’re going to the airport by yourself?” “Ya.” “Why aren’t Ginny and…” “They tried Blaise. They said they would postpone the honeymoon until I leave, but I told them not to. They should enjoy their honeymoon. And they’ve done so much for me, they deserve a break.” Thinking back to the last night at the apartment, Hermione couldn’t help to feel sad about it. “Why do you have to leave so soon? You just came back into our lives and now you’re leaving again!” Ginny yelled through tears. “…I’m sorry…but I could only stay for the summer… Mum and Dad can’t run the store forever.” “But why can’t they!” Ginny said crying. “Can’t you stay a little longer?” Harry asked. “I’m sorry Harry I can’t.” Hermione said sadly. “Then at least let us take you to the airport…” Harry suggested. “I can’t do that… it’s your guy’s honeymoon.” Hermione declined. “So what… our honeymoon can wait. You’re our friend.” Harry said. “And as your friend I’m saying go on your honeymoon. You guys deserve it.” “Then change your ticket… you can leave when we come back.” Ginny said sniffling. “I can’t Gin…I’m sorry. And besides I’ve used your apartment well enough… and spending two weeks alone without you guys…” “Hermione…” “I wanted to thank you guys. Since day one you guys have been there for me when no one else has been. You guys are the best friends a girl could have.” Hermione said finding tears falling down her cheeks. “Will you at least write this time?” Ginny asked. “Of course. I have no reason to hide anymore.” Hermione tried saying with a smile. “I’m going to miss you…” Ginny said. “You better come visit soon.” Harry said now also in tears. “I’m gonna miss you guys as well.” Hermione said through tears. After a few moments of crying Hermione stopped crying, wiped her tears and said, “Now, enough with all the sad crying stuff. You guys are getting married tomorrow! It’s no time to be sad!” “But…” “No times for buts. It’s our last night together, let’s make it memorable by having fun instead of crying and being all sad.” Hermione said as they talked and laughed about old memories until tears came out from laughter. “Then let me come with you.” Blaise said. “I can’t let you do that. I’m sorry.” “Why not?” “You’ll try to stop me.” “Then why go to the airport?” Blaise asked. “What do you mean?” “You’re a smart witch Hermione, you could have easily apparated back to America. Why go through the trouble of going on a plane when you could be home in a split second? What are you waiting on?” Hermione already knew she easily could have cast a spell to send her stuff back home and have easily apparated herself, but Blaise was right. Somehow, someway, Hermione hoped that a certain Slytherin would stop her at the airport, tell her that it’s over with Astoria, and tell her that the one he truly wants and loves has always been her. But she knew that that’s not going to happen, but a girl can hope right? “Have you told Draco when you leave?” “No.” “Hermione…” “I haven’t seen Draco since dinner at the manor…why would he care anyways?” He cares more than you think…Blaise thought to himself. “Have you told him your feelings?” Blaise couldn’t help but ask. “No…” “Are you going to?” “No…” “But you leave tomorrow morning…” “That’s my point Blaise. He chose Astoria. He’s marrying Astoria.” “But you’re hoping he’s gonna show up tomorrow anyways.” “No…” “Hermione Jean Granger…you are the most confusing girl I know.” Blaise said giving up. “I know.” As once again they found themselves slow dancing to an upbeat song. ~*~*~*~*~*~ **Wahoo for Chpt 25!! Can you believe we only have 5 more chapters left!! The countdown begins now! I wanna take this time to thank all you guys for reading and reviewing! Yes.. I know I thank you guys a lot.. but you really don't know how much I really do appreciate what you guys do! Without you guys.. I probably would have abandoned HRTS (sad to say) and the idea of a sequel would be crazy (finally started writing it btw!! :D) It makes me both happy and humble not only as a writer but as a Harry Potter fan to read your reviews and to take in your guys' ideas and constructive critisism! So thank you guys! We got 5 more chpts left.. so I hope you guys keep on reading and reviewing! Anywho.. back to the chapter ;) what do you guys think? I just had to add a cute little moment for all you Blaise/Hermione fans out there! I know I started to become a big fan after starting to write them together and I couldn't have them end bad after the breakup! Especially since she's leaving soo soon! But ya... Thanks again so much for reading and I'll see you guys in Chpt 26!! ~kitty_kat9211** As the night went on, everyone participated in the celebration with a sense of joy and happiness, except for Draco. Astoria, of course noticed there was something up with her date, so whenever she had the chance, she would do anything and everything in her power to cheer him up a little. When Astoria wasn’t dragging him to the dance floor, she found him standing by himself starring while she was off talking to friends. She didn’t want to admit it, but Astoria knew that what Draco was starring at was in fact Hermione. Watching her dance with Blaise with that sparkle in his eyes that Astoria never got…even after the night they made up. “Astoria?” one of her friends asked. “Oh. Yes Harper? Sorry… what did you say?” Astoria said snapping out of watching Draco stare again. “The girls and I were just talking about how nice it would be to be with someone. It must be nice to find it so early instead of going around trying to look for someone? It must be great.” Harper said. “What do you mean?” Astoria asked confused. “I always knew since Hogwarts that Ginny Weasley and Harry Potter would end up together…I think everyone knew. And they’re so happy together. You can tell they are. And look at you and Draco.” “Me and Draco?” “Ya, you guys have been together since you got out of Hogwarts and now you guys are gonna get married. I’m so jealous.” “There’s not that much to be jealous of.” Astoria said thinking back to their recent argument. “Ya there is. It only took you until after you graduated to find him and it’s not just a normal kind of relationship either. It’s one of those rare kinds that only come once in a while. That’s what Harry and Ginny have. That’s what you and Draco have. The rest of us have to search and search for what seems like forever to find something remotely close to what you guys have.” A rare type of relationship…huh…Astoria thought to herself as she walked up to Draco watching Hermione and Blaise dancing. “Isn’t it great…”Astoria said leaning against the table next to him. “What is?” Draco said not taking his eyes off the couple. “The wedding…Ginny and Harry look so happy.” “They do…don’t they.” But Draco wasn’t looking at what Astoria was looking at. It’s one of those rare kinds of relationships that only come once in a while… That’s when Astoria realized it… “To be with the one you love is something greater than magic itself. When you find that one person who you love more than anyone else, no words can describe that feeling. No one can get in the way. So I’ll cancel the wedding Draco.” “What?” Now Draco’s focus was on her. “I’m done with this engagement…I’ll pack my things and be out of your hair in no time. Goodbye Draco…” as Astoria turned around to leave, Draco quickly grabbed her wrist turning her around. “You don’t just randomly end it, and try to leave without giving me a good explanation why.” Draco said. “Let go of me Draco.” “Not until you tell me what’s going on! I love you Astoria, I want to be with you for the rest of my life… why are you canceling this now?” “Because the one you truly want isn’t me.” Astoria said looking at Hermione and Blaise dancing. “…She’s with Blaise. Why are you saying this?” “I was talking to Harper and she was saying how we have that rare type of relationship…” Astoria started. “A rare type of relationship?” “Yes Draco, please listen to me. It’s hard to explain…but it only comes once in a while. Ginny and Harry have it. They found each other early on in their lives and have been together since. Look at them, they are still as happy as the first day they got together.” “So what do you mean? They have nothing to do with us…” Draco said quickly glancing at the newlywed and back to Astoria. “But it does.” Now Draco was confused. “She was right about them. Harry and Ginny definitely have a rare type, but she was also wrong. We don’t have it…” “And you’re gonna believe what she says? It’s Harper for goodness sakes.” “But she’s right…” Astoria was fully convinced. “Ok fine, let’s say she’s right. So what if we don’t have a rare type of relationship, what does that have to do with you ending our engagement?” “Like I said before, I’ve known you’ve had feelings for Hermione for a while… I’ve actually known since the first day I met you. But I still had feelings for you and tried to be with you… knowing that your heart didn’t fully belong to me. If I didn’t try to be with you, I think you and Hermione could have had a rare kind of relationship like Harry and Ginny.” “But she was with Weasley.” “Because you didn’t do anything to get her Draco. You were too busy worrying about other things.” Astoria said grabbing his hand for the last time. “But…” “I’m sorry for holding you back…Goodbye Draco. Thank you for giving me a hint of happiness. I’ll always love you Draco…” and before Draco could stop her again, Astoria had already apparated away, giving him no shot at stopping her. “Astoria…” Draco said realizing he had dropped something. The ring…Draco thought to himself. If I didn’t try to be with you, I think you and Hermione could have had a rare kind of relationship like Harry and Ginny… A rare kind of relationship huh? Draco thought to himself squeezing the ring tightly in his hand. ~*~*~*~*~*~ **Wahoo for Chapter 26! So what do you guys think?? Was it worth the wait? Tell me what you guys think and ill see you guys in chpt 27! Just a few more chapters left! ~kitty_kat9211** Like everything else, the celebration had to come to an end and the only thing left to do was to send the newlyweds off to their honeymoon. As everyone gathered, whispers spread around the group with curiosity to how the couple would make their exit. But with Ginny being a Weasley, things, of course, was going to be big. “Why am I not surprised.” Hermione whispered to herself as she saw none other than the Weasley’s flying car with a just married sign on the rear. As Harry and Ginny came up through the crowd, Hermione was afraid that they wouldn’t see her and she wouldn’t have a chance to say goodbye before she left the next morning. Right as Ginny was about to get into the car, she caught a glance at Hermione standing in the crowd and quickly ran to her side. “Don’t be a stranger, ok?” Ginny asked through tears. “I won’t.” Hermione said trying not to cry. With one more hug, Hermione said, “Now, what are you waiting for? Go have fun with Harry.” “Ok. Have a safe trip home.” “I will.” “Don’t forget to write.” “I will Gin…” “And visit!” “Ginny Potter he’s waiting.” “I love you Hermione Granger!” Ginny said before finally going back to the car. “I love you too!” Hermione said now through tears waving. “Thank you again…” she whispered as her two best friends flew off into the sky of fireworks. Oh no…I still have to finish packing at the apartment… Hermione thought to herself before getting lost in the fireworks. But as she turned to head back to the Burrow, “I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to bump into…” “Hermione…” Draco said shocked to have bumped into her. “Um Draco… long time no see.” Hermione was never good at small talk. “Since the dinner at my place… if I remember correctly.” Draco wasn’t good at small talk either. Tell him Hermione…you don’t have much time left. Hermione thought to herself. “So…where did Astoria run off to?” Hermione asked instead. Tell her Astoria canceled the engagement… Draco thought to himself. “Um…she’s off talking to some friends…” After a few moments of them both regretting their word choices, Draco couldn’t help but ask, “So now that the wedding is over, are you going back to America?” “Yes…” Even though Draco knew what her answer would be… he still hoped that her answer would have been different. “How soon?” “Tomorrow.” “Already? What time does your plane leave?” “9 pm.” Hermione said. Now Hermione knew that she told Draco the wrong time, but she didn’t want Draco to know that. You already made your choice Draco. Go be happy. “Well…can I see you before you leave tomorrow?” Draco asked. “I still have a lot of packing to do before the plan leaves…I’m sorry.” Hermione said half lying. She still did have a lot of packing to that she needed to go finish. “I understand… Can you at least stand and watch the fireworks with me then… The Weasleys really do know how to put on a show.” “But Astoria…” “Astoria knows that we are friends…and if she has a problem with us standing next to each other watching fireworks, she can bring it up with me.” Draco really wished he would have just told her. “…please Hermione for me.” With the way he asked, she couldn’t say no. “Fine… but if I’m late for my flight tomorrow… I blame you.” Packing is just gonna have to wait longer I guess… “Maybe it’s a good thing I asked you to stay a little then.” Draco said half jokingly. Trying to ignore Draco’s little comment without getting embarrassed; Hermione went back to the fireworks. Watching them with Draco, Hermione couldn’t help but to think back to their time at the hillside. “It is beautiful.” Hermione said looking out in amazement at the yellow flowers covering miles and miles of hills. For the first time since she came back, Hermione felt calm and at peace, like for a moment she could forget about everything that was going on and just relax. But watching the fireworks months later didn’t make Hermione feel calm at peace. She felt the total opposite. I’m sorry Draco. I knew telling you the wrong time was horrible of me but I can’t have you holding me back, and I can’t hold you back from being with your fiancé. You need to go be happy with Astoria and I need to just get out of your life. But before I go… I have to tell you one last thing. I love you Draco. You’re the most caring, loving person and I know you’ll make Astoria the luckiest girl ever. Thank you for telling me your feelings. I’ll never forget the time we spent together this summer, and I’ll definitely never forget you. Goodbye Draco. “Where are you going?” But before Draco could say anything more, Hermione was already gone leaving Draco alone to watch the finale before going home. Back inside the Burrow, Hermione couldn’t help but to let out all of her tears while gathering her things. It’s for the best Hermione…she kept repeating to herself. But no matter how many times she repeated it to herself, reassuring herself that it was the best thing for her situation, it still couldn’t stop the pain and sadness she was feeling. She had her chance to tell him her feelings. Right there and she blew it. She had exactly what she wanted to say… she recited it a dozen more times than just at the moment. But even if she had the courage to tell him her feelings, she knew she could never truly tell him as long as he’s engaged to Astoria. In Hermione’s heart, a silent confession is worse than no confession at all. “Goodbye Draco…” as she apparated once again to the apartment to finally pack up her things. *Wahoo for Chpt 27!!! I still can't believe HRTS is soo close to being done!! June and July are big months for me... It was a year ago during the end of June/early July that I started writing HRTS... and now look where we are a year later.. almost done! I know I do this a lot.. but I really want to thank you guys for reading and reviewing! I don't know what I would do without you guys! But back to the chapter.. what do you guys think? Do you think Hermione was wise when she told Draco the wrong time for her plane flight? Tell me what you guys think by reveiwing! Well you don't have to.. but you can review anyways :)). Next chpt is another big day.. the day Hermione goes back to America! But until then... see you in Chpt 28!! -kitty_kat9211** Ginny’s and Harry’s Apartment 7:50 am The next morning was definitely an early one for Hermione. Not only did she stay up later than she had to, but once she finally went to bed, she couldn’t get herself to fall asleep until it was too late. Getting up out of bed, Hermione quickly changed and pulled her hair into a low messy bun. Do I have everything? Hermione thought to herself. Walking around the apartment, memories of the past summer in the apartment flooded around her. From spending their meals together, to the day when Ron came barging in to make up with Harry and Ginny. Every second spent together will never be forgotten to the last moments before they were off the Burrow for the wedding. I never found my reason…did I? Hermione suddenly realized. “…why can’t you just marry me then? I’ll make you way happier than he could ever.” What would have happened if Hermione said yes? Would they get their own place or would they live in Malfoy Manor? Then Hermione would get to see Draco and Astoria together every single day, which is something she knew she wouldn’t be able to take. Yes, Hermione liked Blaise a lot, but after only dating for 3 months and with the situation they were currently in, a marriage proposal wasn’t the solution. But the thought of getting married is nice; it’s something Hermione has always dreamed of. Two times Hermione has had the shot of getting married, but never happened. She’s been through school, started and now has one of the most successful book stores in Chicago. She’s lived that part of her life, now Hermione is ready to find a good man and finally settle down. But with her luck, she knew that another chance of her getting married wasn’t happening anytime soon. So with one last look at the apartment, Hermione left the apartment wishing that in the time she spent there, she would have found a reason to stay. ~*~*~*~*~*~ Malfoy Manor, Wiltshire, England 8:30 am By the time Draco got home from the wedding, it was already late and Draco’s thoughts were filled with events that happened throughout the night. Why did she just leave like that? Was the one question Draco couldn’t find an answer to. Usually Draco would wake up in the morning to the fresh smell of coffee brewing, but the next morning when Draco walked down the steps, there was no smell of coffee. No matter what, Astoria would always make sure there was a fresh batch of coffee for Draco every morning. Even when they were fighting, there was always coffee ready in the morning. It’s really over…isn’t it? Draco thought to himself while brewing coffee. In fact, looking around, Draco noticed that all of Astoria’s things were gone. “Draco, what are you still doing here?” Blaise asked coming down the stairs. For the first time Blaise was actually talking to him on his own and he asks Draco what he’s doing at his own house? There must be something up. “I’m…making coffee. Want some?” Draco said in response. “Do you know what time it is?” “Yea…8:30. Did you notice that all of Astoria’s stuff is gone?” “8:30…Hermione’s plane leaves in 30 minutes!” Blaise yelled. “What are you talking about? She told me at the wedding she leaves at 9 pm.” “Well she lied…What are you doing just standing there? Go after her!” “Why aren’t you going after her then?” “You have no time for this.” Blaise said keeping his eye on the clock. “Blaise tell me. About a month ago you were saying how you were going to fight to keep her with you. What stops you now?” “You’re running out of time…” “I’m not leaving until you tell me.” “It’s 8:32…” “I’m still not leaving…” “You’re being ridiculous.” “Why did you give up so quickly?” “8:33… time is ticking…” Now he was getting impatient. “Blaise tell me…” “Just go already.” “Tell me!” “THE ONE SHE TRULY WANTED WASN’T ME!” That got Draco to stop nagging. “It’s you Draco. But because you and Astoria were engaged, she didn’t want to ruin your engagement and she couldn’t stand hurting me anymore so she felt her only option was to go back to America. She even rejected my marriage proposal.” “Wait…you asked her to marry you?” “Yes I did…” “…but last night I saw you guys dancing together.” “She was telling me what time she leaves… which is in about 20 minutes! You love her right?” “…Yes.” “Then go bring her home. No time to change, go now.” Just as Draco was about to leave he stopped to say, “Thank you Blaise. I owe you big time.” “Just call this payback for all you’ve done for me over the years.” Blaise said half jokingly. “Now go, before it’s too late.” And with that Draco was gone right as his coffee was done brewing. “Out of all the places to escape to, why did you choose the place you were trying to escape from? You even packed all of your stuff. He noticed it and asked me if I noticed it as well.” “There was nowhere else to go. I didn’t want to risk bumping into Hermione again by going to Daphne’s apartment. He never goes to his parent’s old room so I knew I would be safe there.” Astoria said coming out from where she heard the previous conversation. “You know you could have stayed in my room…or at least let me stay in the room with you until you fell asleep. No one deserves to be alone in their time of pain.” “Then what about you Blaise? You really didn’t have to tell him the real time Hermione’s plane was leaving…” “Oh I know, and I thought about not telling him.” Blaise answered. “Then why did you end up doing it?” “For Hermione’s sake, of course… she deserves to be happy.” “Even if that means seeing her with your best friend?” “You didn’t have to break the engagement off, so why did you do it?” “For Draco’s sake of course…he also deserves to be happy.” “And that’s where you and I are alike. We would both do anything for the one we love…I’m sorry Astoria…” Blaise said stopping himself when he saw tears in her eyes. “It’s fine…” Astoria said quickly wiping tears off her face. “Want some?” Blaise asked noticing the coffee was ready. “Sure. Do you think he’ll make it in time?” “For their sakes, hopefully. But for our sakes, no. We’ll just have to wait and see.” “No…you will. What would happen if he did bring her here and I was sitting drinking his coffee?” “You have a point…Do you have any idea where you’re going to go?” “Well since Hermione is at the airport and the newlyweds are on their honeymoon, I’m probably going to go to Daphne’s apartment… if she’s not there, I don’t know.” “Can you at least stay to finish your cup of coffee?” Blaise asked. “Alright fine…Thank you Blaise.” “Anytime…you know you can always come to me when you need someone.” Blaise said taking a sip of his coffee. “I know…” as the two waited to see if Draco made it in time. ~*~*~*~*~*~ **Wahoo for Chapter 28... finally! Sorry about such the long wait... a lot has happened.. but it's ok. i'm back.. with only 2 chapters left! Oh geeze... Anywho.. what do you guys think of the chapter? Do you think Blaise did the right thing? Do you think Draco will make it in time? Review and tell me your thoughts! Thank you for waiting, reading and see you in chpt 29! -kitty_kat9211** London Airport 8:45 am “The time is now 8:45 am and flight 9211 to Chicago is now ready to board. Passengers, please make your way to gate 19 with your tickets ready. I repeat, the time is now 8:45 am and flight 9211 to Chicago is ready to board.” It’s time I guess… Hermione thought to herself. Even though she purposely told him the wrong time the night before, she still hoped he would somehow show up before she boarded the plane. But that was just wishful thinking. With her things in one hand and her ticket in the other, she was up and was ready to board the plane, leaving everyone behind. “Hermione wait!” Turning her head, Hermione couldn’t believe what she was seeing. Draco? Could it really be you? Hermione thought to herself in disbelief. “Hermione…don’t go…” Draco said trying to catch his breath. I can’t believe it… I made it! Draco thought in relief. Once he finally caught his breath, Draco straightened up and said, “Why did you tell me the wrong time?” “I’ve been caught… haven’t I?” Hermione tried saying jokingly but with the way Draco was looking at her, she knew he didn’t think it was funny. “Did you really not want me to come see you?” I wanted you to do much more than that Draco… “That’s not it.” “Then what? If Blaise had never told me I would have missed your flight!” “I should have known it was Blaise…” Hermione found herself saying out loud. “Why did you tell me the wrong time last night Hermione?” “The time is now 8:50 and flight 9211 to Chicago leaves in 10 minutes…” “I have to go…Goodbye Draco.” Hermione said turning to leave. No! Not when I’m so close… “You said you needed a reason!” Draco suddenly said. Don’t mess it up this time Draco… “On the hillside… you told me you needed a reason. A reason big enough for you to leave everything you’ve worked for…” I can’t believe you remember all of this…Hermione thought. “Why can’t that reason be me?" Hermione couldn’t believe what she was hearing. “…But Astoria… you’re getting married to Astoria.” “Not anymore.” “Why?” Hermione couldn’t help but ask. “She couldn’t marry someone who she knew loved someone else.” Wait? Astoria broke it off? “Please Hermione. Back at Hogwarts, I was a scared little boy who couldn’t fight for what he loved. I cared way too much about what other people cared about what ever people thought of me, but times have changed and now I realize that I can’t lose you. Not to Weasley… not even to Blaise. I love you Hermione Granger. It’s always been you. I want to spend the rest of my life with you…I can’t do that if you leave. Please…stay with me.” Oh Draco… Finally, Hermione was finally hearing the words she was dying to hear, but what to say to them… how to respond? “Please tell me the reason why you’re not saying anything is because you’re considering staying… or is the reason why you told me the wrong time is because you don’t…” Draco started but was then interrupted when Hermione reacted quickly by kissing him. “I love you too Draco. I’ve loved you for a long time but I hid them for years until I came back this summer. You’re the most caring and loving man I know and honestly I don’t deserve you. I told you the wrong time because I wanted you to be happy with Astoria. I couldn’t tell you my feelings for you while you were with her, it wouldn’t be right. After all I’ve been through with Ron, I couldn’t be the other woman. But look at us now… you’re standing in front of me telling me you’re not engaged anymore and that you love me. I don’t know if I’m dreaming or not.” Hermione said once they let go. “Well you’re not dreaming. This is really happening. So stay. We’ll live together, we’ll get married…” “Wait… get married?” Hermione said suddenly finding her face feeling red. “If you want to, yes get married. Married or not though, we’ll be together finally, me and you. And nothing or no one will come between us. You just have to stay yes.” Staying is the thing Hermione wanted to do most, but there were also things that needed to be taken care of. “I want to stay… you are the reason why I want to stay…” “Then what’s holding you back?” Draco asked confused. “I have to go back Draco…I have some things I can take care of with the shop. But I promise you that I will come back, now that I finally found a reason to. But only if you’re willing to wait; I know it’s horrible of me to ask you this… but will you wait for me?” Hermione suggested. “How long will it take?” Draco asked. “I’m not sure, maybe a few months, maybe a year. I just don’t know.” “Last call for passengers to board flight 9211 to Chicago, I repeat last call for passengers to board flight 9211 to Chicago.” “Will you wait for me Draco?” Hermione asked one more time. “No matter how long it takes, I’ll wait for you.” As a big smile formed on Hermione’s face. “Last call….” “I have to go… I love you.” Hermione said not wanting to leave. “I love you too.” And with one last kiss Draco watched the one he truly loves hand her ticket to the attendant and walk farther and farther away disappearing from his sight. “She loves me…” Draco kept whispering to himself. But there was no time to be standing around day dreaming. Hermione wasn’t the only one who had things to do in the next year. So with a smile on his face and a goal in mind, Draco headed off to get a head start already counting down the days until she came back for good. **Wahoo for Chpt 29!! I still can't believe this is the 2nd to last chapter!!! I'm so excited, yet nervous, yet sad.. i'm just a mixture of emotions right now. I know this is completely random and has nothing to do with HRTS or even Harry Potter... but yesterday I lost a good friend of mine due a tragic car accident. Jeff, you were an amazing person. You were funny caring and always knew how to put a smile on my face. You were greatly loved and adored by everyone and I miss you so much. Anyway, this chapter goes out to you as we all wait until the day we get to see your beautiful smile again. So.. what do you guys think? How did you guys like Draco's confession? Haha finally right?? It only took till the 2nd to last chapter to get him to confess it to her ;). Tell me what you guys think by reviewing! It makes me soo happy when I read your guys reviews! But until then... goodbye. See you guys in the last chapter! ~kitty_kat9211** June 2004 Somewhere Over the Atlantic Ocean “No matter how long it takes, I’ll wait for you.” Oh Draco, will you still be waiting for me when I get there? “Excuse me passengers, this is your captain speaking. We are currently over the North Atlantic Ocean. Our destination, the London Airport will be in about 2 hours. So please sit back, relax and enjoy the view of the ocean. Thank you.” 10 months. That’s how long it has been since Hermione boarded the plane back to Chicago. Since that fateful day, Hermione has counted down the days to when she would finally be able to be back in his arms for good. They’ve written letters back and forth to each other (as well as letters to Ginny) and Draco even came to America for a visit, but it just wasn’t the same. Time was wasted in between waiting for the next letter to come, and with his visit, sooner or later Draco had to go back leaving Hermione alone again. Not only did she feel lonely not being in Draco’s arms, but she felt lonely not being with Ginny, Harry, Ron and the rest of her friends. When she first moved to America, it was easy because she purposely deleted herself out of their lives, but after the summer of the reunion/wedding everything changed. The more time she spent in America, the less time she got to spend time with the ones she cared and loved. Memories would go by for the group and they would only be a story to Hermione. What would it have been like to see in person Ron’s little baby boy Jack grow up? To see him crawl, smile, and act like his father in front of her eyes instead of look at pictures in wonder. What would it have been like to hug Ginny in excitement when she found out that Ginny was pregnant instead of hearing the excitement in her voice on the phone when she was at the store? “How did Harry take it when you told him?” Hermione remembered asking when Ginny called her that day. “He was speechless! If I wasn’t there he would have fallen on the floor! But then he got upset saying I’m putting too much strain on my body by catching him. It was too funny!” Harry would have done that. Hermione thought to herself. “Oh Hermione, I wish you were here. There’s so much to plan now with a baby on the way. Do you know when you’ll be back for good?” Ginny asked. “I don’t know Gin… I want to say soon, but I just don’t know.” That phone call was about four months ago and after so long Hermione’s dream of coming back to Draco and the group is finally becoming a reality. But the road to today hasn’t been the easiest. Coming back to America, Hermione knew exactly what she needed to do. By keeping in touch with her parents while visiting, she knew everything that was going on in the shop and they knew what was going on where she was. So hearing about their daughter finally finding her one and only, they were happy for her, no matter what kind of past he may have had with her. But that couldn’t change the fact that her parents’ couldn’t fully run the store forever, and Hermione knew that. She was thankful to them enough for running the store so she could attend the reunion and the wedding let alone fully support her on her choice of going back to London. Coming back, she was happily surprised they managed it as well as they did for the whole summer with both of them having dental degrees. But time goes by and with the new dental office up and running by the time Hermione came back, her first priority was to find someone to run the store without her there, and she had an idea for the perfect candidate. When Hermione first opened up her store almost 3 years ago, not even after a few days after putting a help wanted ad in the newspaper, a tall, lanky boy who had a young looking face with blonde short hair and bright blue eyes came storming in the store wanting a job. “I’m here about getting a job.” Was the first thing the boy said to Hermione. “And your name?” Hermione asked looking up at him from her desk. “Craig Miller. Can I get a job here?” He seems so anxious about getting a job. Looking at him, the first thought that came to her mind was when you looked at him, you wouldn’t think a book store would be a job that he would be going for, there’s got to be something more with this boy. “You seem so anxious about getting this job, what do you like most about books?” she asked intrigued in what his answer would be. “I don’t read. They actually bore me.” He answered quickly. “You don’t read but you’re in my store, where I sell books telling me you want a job? Why should I give you a job here?” “Please. It’s my first day in town, and I’m living on my own.” Craig said. “Really? Why are you on your own in such a big town?” Hermione was just going to send him away, but now she was interested. “…My parents kicked me out of the house.” Craig finally answered. “And why is that? I’m sorry, I don’t mean to seem to ask so much, but if I’m even thinking of letting you work at my store, I want to know a little about you and where you’re coming from.” Hermione said. “They found out that my girlfriend was pregnant, and with their religious beliefs, they couldn’t stand me having a kid before marriage, so they kicked me out.” “But you said you are here on your own, you didn’t come with your girlfriend?” “I soon found out after that I wasn’t actually the father of the child, and that she cheated on me, so instead of going back to my parents….” “….you just left completely.” Hermione finished for him. “Please, I need to find a job soon. I can’t find a place to live without one.” Craig said, it sounded like he was almost begging her to give him one. “How old are you Craig?” Hermione asked. “18 Ma’am.” He answered. “And where are you living now?” Hermione asked. “My car… Ma’am.” “For being so young, you’ve been through a lot. And I admire you for telling a stranger your story.” Hermione found herself saying out loud. “Um thanks? So will you give me the job? Even if it’s just for a few days, I just need enough to find a place.” Craig said with hope. “This is my store, and I want to hire people who take it just as seriously as I do. I know you don’t read, but can I still trust that you will come to work on time and do what I ask?” “Yes. Anything you ask Ma’am.” “And will you please never call me Ma’am. My name is Hermione Granger, but you can call me Hermione.” “Yes…Hermione.” Hermione didn’t know if it was out of pity, or the fact that she can relate to the boy since the reason why she left to a new place was because she was also cheated on, but then she found herself going “Are you able to start now? There’s a huge stack of books that need to go on a high shelf, and I’m too short.” Hermione said. “Yes Ma’am! I mean…Hermione.” Craig said ready. “Let’s get started then.” After all the work was done, Hermione invited Craig to her place for a few days just so he didn’t have to sleep in his car. “No one should have to live out in their car, especially in a big city.” Hermione told him. After a few days of work and with the money Craig had before he came to Chicago, he finally had enough to get his own place, but that didn’t stop Craig from wanting to continue working at the store. “Wait, you still want to work at my store?” Hermione was shocked to hear this from him. “Yes. I am very thankful to you for letting me work at your store let alone stay at your place for a few days while I saved enough money.” Craig said. “But you don’t have to continue working here just because you are thankful to me. You can find a different job if you don’t like this one.” Hermione said. “I know, and I don’t want to stay just because I am thankful, but I actually kind of maybe enjoy working here with you and the others. I was never welcomed at my home town like I was welcomed here.” Craig said sounding embarrassed. “But that doesn’t mean you’ll actually pick up a book for you to read yourself.” Hermione said joking. “If I said yes, would you let me stay and work here Hermione?” Craig said almost serious. In the few days Craig worked and stayed with her, Hermione found that he was more than just the boy who couldn’t pick up a book. Like Hermione, he had dreams. Craig’s dream was to own his own business. He didn’t know what type of one, but he knew that’s what he wanted to do since he was young. But then his girlfriend got pregnant, and his dream became just a dream instead of reality. Hermione saw a little of herself in Craig, through the common experiences they experienced, and saw that he actually is a good kid. He’s just been through a lot in a short amount of time. Plus, even if she didn’t admit it out loud to him now, she did like him working at the store. Having a bigger pair of muscles then hers always came in handy when it came to books going to high shelves. “You know I wouldn’t put you through that torture, but I would love to let you continue working here, but now you’re on your own, you don’t have me to wake you up for work. Can you handle it?” Hermione said. “Yes I can! Thank you so much!” In the 2 years the store was open before Hermione left for the summer, employees came and went, but Craig always stayed. Other than working at the store, Craig enrolled for a community college and it took her a while, but eventually Hermione got Craig to open a book for himself, and he actually enjoyed it. Not only did Craig shockingly become the best employee at the store, but he became Hermione’s best friend in America. It took her longer than he did when they first met, but finally Hermione told Craig the reason why she came to America and opened her store. He even questioned her when he found out she was going back for the summer, but Hermione insisted she would go and face her past, as well as he should with his own parents. When she asked her parents about the store while she was gone, they always had good comments about the work Craig did for the store; they even asked her why she didn’t just leave the store in his hands for the summer instead of asking them. It was like Craig was really the one in charge, and Hermione’s parents were just there to supervise, which could have been Hermione’s plan all along. “You’re asking me to run this place? Me? Are you sure I’m the right person?” “Craig if you weren’t the right person, I wouldn’t be asking you now would I?” “No but still… I’m only 21….” “And I was 22 when I opened the store. And you were the little 18 year old boy who thought books were boring but still came in asking for a job.” “Yea, don’t remind me of that.” “Why shouldn’t I Craig? You were my first employee and my first friend I met here in America. In the almost 3 years we’ve known each other, you’ve grown to a fine responsible man and you even opened and enjoyed reading a book! I trust you the most and I wouldn’t trust the store to anyone else but you.” “This is it then; you’re really going back to London?” Craig said realizing everything. “Yes I am. That’s where I truly belong. And just think of it, when I open a shop down there, business will be bigger and better! It will be more than just the little store where two misfits worked at because they had problems back at home.” “I know, but what if I never see you again?” “That will never happen. You are dear to my heart, and besides, I’m going to have to check up on the store sometimes, make sure it’s doing well. But that’s only if you say yes!” Hermione said hoping he would agree to it. “Ok, I’ll do it. You can trust the store in my hands.” Craig said finally agreeing to it. One problem down, but Hermione was still only halfway until getting back into Draco’s arms. Long before Hermione came back to London for the reunion and wedding, with the success of her store, she always dreamed of broadening her store to more than just Chicago, she just didn’t have a good enough reason to do it till now. It took a while to find the perfect location for the new store and at times she thought she would never find one until she thought of the time she visited a small bookstore to find a picture book for Blaise. While there, she found herself talking to the owner of the store. After finding out she owned her own bookstore, the owner told her he once visited Hermione’s store when he was visiting grandkids and was truly impressed with how well it was ran. “I’m getting old and so is my shop. I think it’s time we both retire. But I can’t just let this store go down with me; loyal customers would be sad to see the place torn down. You may not believe this, but I’ve had this store with me for most of my life, ever since your age I think. If only someone with your skills and passion could come and take over the store. Then I would feel safe retiring.” Was what Hermione remembered most out of him. So with a few phone calls and emails back and forth, the store owner was excited to hear Hermione’s interest in the store, and with a few visits and a few more calls and emails, the store was finally in her hands! But she couldn’t tear it down and build on top of it. The store may be run-down and old, but that’s what makes the store unique. Now all that was left was to bring the store up and running once she reached London. Even though Hermione would have loved to see her store fully branch out, this wasn’t just her dream anymore. When Hermione graduated Hogwarts, she always thought that she would spend the rest of her life being a Weasley and work in the Ministry of Magic. Never in her imagination did she think that everything but that would happen. “Welcome. We have safely landed at the London Airport. Please stay seated while we get ready to make a stop. Thank you for riding with us and have a wonderful day.” To some, 5 years may be too short for a reunion, but not Hermione Granger. At first, the thought of coming back was scary, but if she never did, she would have regretted it for the rest of her life. If it wasn’t for the reunion and also the wedding, not only would her store broaden a year later, but friendships that were once torn would have never been sown back together. “Hermione!” Hermione suddenly heard at the end of the gate after she got off the plane. “Gin! Shouldn’t you be careful running up to me! I would have caught up to you guys sooner or later.” Hermione said dropping her things and hugging her best friend. “Geeze you sound like Harry. But I couldn’t help myself!” Ginny squealed. “It’s great to see you too. Now I can finally help you plan for the baby in person instead of on the phone.” Hermione said with a huge smile. Once the girls caught up to the group she couldn’t believe this was all a reality. Not only did Ginny and Harry meet her at the airport but Ron and his son Jack was their too. “It’s been a while Ronald.” Hermione said hugging Ron. “I never thought I’d hear you call me that again, but it’s great having you back.” He said hugging her back laughing. “My, has he grown from the last pictures I saw. Hi Jack, my name is Hermione. I hope we can become friends.” Hermione said to little Jack. After a moment of starring at her, suddenly a huge smile formed on Jack’s face, one that instantly reminded her of his father. “Wow Hermione, he barley smiles like that when he first meets someone. The last person he did that to was Draco.” Ron said rocking his happy son in his arms. “Draco… Where is he?” Hermione said looking around for him. Did he not come to greet me here? Hermione thought to herself. “Don’t worry; he’s just going to the bathroom.” Ginny said. He couldn’t wait a little longer to after I got here? But right after Hermione thought that, around the corner a man slightly taller than before with a pair of beautiful blue eyes came carrying a huge bear holding a bouquet full of red roses in one hand and a huge balloon that said “Welcome Home!!” in the other. “Bathroom. Good one there Ginny.” Ron said as Hermione ran straight towards Draco hugging him. Not only were friendships sown up the summer of the reunion and the wedding, but an old question was finally answered. “I’m sorry.” Hermione said mid hug. “Why are you saying sorry?” Draco asked confused. “I made you wait for me.” “You didn’t make me wait for you. I wanted to wait so I did. I did a good job didn’t I? I was very patient.” Draco said half jokingly. “Of course you did Draco…” “Did you think I wasn’t going to wait for you?” “I was gone for almost a full year you could of…” “…there were things you had to do, which was understandable. There were also things that I needed to get done too, all things to make our future together better. Sure, there are things we still have to do, but don’t regret going back. You are here now, and you’re never leaving my sight again.” Draco said pulling Hermione back into his arms. “But did you really have to get me all of this?” Hermione said looking at the bear the flowers and the balloon Draco put down before hugging her. “Is it a big enough apology for not being right there when you got off the plane?” Draco asked picking up the bear as Hermione laughed a little. “I’m just glad you’re here.” Hermione said kissing him. It took until right before she boarded the plane back to Chicago, but Hermione can finally say she found a big enough reason for her to stay. “Hey, are you guys coming or not, I’m hungry here and I’m feeding for two!” Ginny yelled across way. “Welcome home. You ready to spend the rest of our lives together?” Draco said grabbing Hermione’s hand. “Yes I am.” As the couple got back to the group, Hermione felt like the work she did in the past year finally paid off. From the good days to the bad days, all the stress she felt and the moments she almost gave up all lead to this day. Draco was right when he said there were more to do but this time she didn’t have to do them alone. She finally knew where she belonged and had friends and family to back her up. And never again will she leave them. This is her home, and they are her reason to stay. After a long year, Hermione could finally say out loud… “I’m home.” And that’s where she will stay. THE END ***...oh my goodness this is the last chapter. And before I say anything more I wanna apologize for how long it took to get this chapter. When I first wrote HRTS this chapter was a whole different chapter.. and after rereading and rereading it.. it just didn't feel right. It didn't have the satisfaction I wanted it to. I mean..everything lead up to this.. So I deleted it all and rewrote the whole thing...and that took.. a long time. haha but it's finished! What do you guys think? Was this ending worth the wait? Tell me what you guys think by reviewing! I know I thank you guys a lot... but without you guys, I don't think I could of finished HRTS. All your reviews made me smile and kept me going as a writer. Without you guys I would have never had the idea of writing a sequal! And speaking of the sequal... it's still a work in progress.. seeing as it still doesn't have a name... but as soon as I have one I will have the sequal up.. but until then... THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for a wonderful 2 years (August 2011-April 2013)! You guys are amazing! So until then.. goodbye for now! See you in the sequal! -kitty_kat9211*** http://www.harrypotterfanfiction.com |