Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

Bound	By : goldhorse Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Draco/Hermione Views: 126052 -:- Recommendations : 15 -:- Currently Reading : 31
Disclaimer: JK owns HP. Not me. I also don't own any quotes you might recognize. I make no money doing this, I just get the plot bunnies to quit interrupting my sleep.

Chapter List
- 13
- 14
- 15
Hermione and Draco were flooded with each other’s thoughts, just as they were in the bathroom weeks ago. Thoughts were fragmented, pieced together, and presented like a jumpy memory. They could feel each other’s confusion and despair at their situation. However, what they were lingering on were each other’s feelings.

Draco was amazed as he viewed himself through Hermione’s eyes. He felt her butterflies when she watched him smirk from across the room. He felt her warm up as a result of a heated look from him. He felt her soften towards him during their conversations; her empathy and a budding love toward him floored him. He saw her obsession for Ron Weasley dissipate just a bit more with each caress from him. He saw how hurt she was when she saw him let Pansy drape herself over him. It felt like betrayal of the worst kind. No wonder she wanted to end it.

Hermione was mesmorized by Draco’s thoughts. She saw herself smile and felt him melt inside. She felt his arousal when she was dancing in the ROR, his longing for more when she kissed him. She saw his hatred at the way he had to act towards her around his so-called friends and his admittance to Snape that he more than just cared for her. Finally she felt the self-loathing and sickness when Pansy was draped over him, the overwhelming urge to throw the pug nosed bitch across the room and run. She could understand now why he wanted to spare her that; it was horrible.

“I’m so sorry,” they both breathed. Gently, so as not to have the same affect as last time, they separated. They were thankful for Snape’s intense training in occlumency right then. Pain was evident in Draco’s eyes while Hermione’s were wet with tears of sorrow.

Remus discretely scourgified them again right before Draco took her face into his hands and kissed her gently on the mouth. He wanted to be careful with her; his fangs were quite sharp as he had learned at lunch. He was thankful that his fangs didn’t extend much past where his eyeteeth were formerly. Gently, he explored her mouth and she tentatively let him in. She was obviously more than aware of his fangs as well. She wouldn’t explore his mouth in turn; afraid he would pierce her tounge before they could be bound.

They broke the kiss and just held onto each other for a few minutes. Snape knocked on the door, startling them out of their little cacoon of understanding. Remus flicked his wand and granted the dark man entrance.

Snape saw that the blood was now a mere trickle and walked determinedly across the floor. He produced several potion bottles, a roll of gauze, and a roll of spell-o-tape. Wordlessly, he handed the couple two bottles of a red potion they recognized to be blood replinisher. They greedily drank it down. Color returned to their cheeks and they were able to sit up.

Next, he handed them a purple potion. They looked at him inquisitively.

“Specilized pain potion,” he answered their unspoken question. “It targets the pain without making you barmy.”

His smirk showed that he remembered how Hermione acted with the last pain potion. She blushed horribly. They each drank it down. Then he handed them a vibrant blue potion, the likes of which no one had ever seen.

“This is a rejuvenation potion. It is a time-release potion and only gives bursts of energy when you need it. It’s my own brew of course. Tell no one you have it.”

They both nodded and downed it. Then he handed them each two more bottles of replenisher and motioned for them to pocket it. He took out his wand and scourgified them again. The blood had the most alluring odor and although he had a tight control on his bloodlust, it still called to him.

Remus watched him patch them up silently but he stiffened when Snape scourgified their blood. He’d caught the change in Snape’s pheromones since his lycanthropy had given him the abilities of a wolf. He could hear extraordinarily well, see at night, had above average strength, and a very powerful sense of smell. His nose told him that Snape smelled like a vampire. Werewolves and vampires didn’t get on well in most circles since they hunted for the same prey.

Remus narrowed his eyes and walked steadily over to the professor who was studiously ignoring him. When he got close, Snape tensed and glared at the wolf.

“Why have I never sensed it before,” Remus began in a deadly tone.

Hermione and Draco looked back and forth between their new and old DADA professors. Snape was tense and looked ready to snap at any moment. Lupin was on point, obviously trying to hide the urge to snarl at the dark man. That was when they both knew. Trying to diffuse the situation, Hermione weakly stepped in.

“Professor Lupin?” She asked quietly. He softened just a bit but was still on point.

“Call me Remus please, Hermione.”

“Remus,” she began again. “Is everything alright?”

“I’m not sure Hermione,” he said softly. “My nose tells me that something is amiss.”

“What, exactly?” She asked tentatively.

“I have a feeling you already know. You are the brightest witch of your age, after all.”

Hermione nodded. “Professor Snape?” She asked tentatively, seeking permission to tell Remus what he undoubtedly already knew.

Snape narrowed his eyes. “I’m not a full vampire, werewolf. You’ve never sensed it because the only blood I have been around before when you were there was my own.”

Remus’s dark eyes lightened a bit and a tinge of sadness could be seen. “You’re a day walker.”

Snape gave a curt nod and dropped his glamour. His perfect white teeth gleamed, his fangs extended, and an indigo hue could be seen in his eyes. Hermione and Draco looked on in awe. He was a magnificent site to behold. Remus cocked is head. He couldn’t believe he hadn’t seen it before. It made perfect sense now.

“I know vampires and werewolves don’t get along Remus,” Hermione said quietly. Snape snorted which made her sighed heavily. “Don’t you two think you’ve been rivals long enough? Look at us professors. Would you ever suspect Draco and me to get along so well? We’ve hated each other since day one of school.”

Seeing no change, she continued. “Professor, Remus can’t help who he is. That’s something I know you can sympathize with. Sirius was an arse when he was younger, something no one here had control over. Please, just let it go.”

Draco was puzzled and Hermione sensed this immediately. It was strange, how easily she could read him now. She sent him the image of Harry telling her what had surpassed between the two. How Sirius had told Snape to go to the Shrieking Shack on the full moon and how James had stopped him and saved him from Lupin. Then she’d projected how sad it was that all he had to do was transform into an animal and Lupin would have calmed down. She bet he could turn into a wolf, since he’d mentioned being able to turn into three different forms. Vampires could turn into wolves and bats.

Draco started snickering, which caused Hermione to snigger.

“You find this amusing, Miss Granger?” Snape sneered.

“I do.” She giggled. “You have so much in common and neither of you can see it.” Then she and Draco started laughing out loud.

Snape hissed, his eyes flashing a brilliant indo hue. Draco and Hermione immediately quieted and scooted over kneel at his feet.

Remus gasped. “You’ve consumed their blood.”

“Not by choice,” Snape said in a deadly tone. “Show him, daughter.”

Hermione obediently unbuttoned the top two buttons on her blouse and stretched the fabric over her shoulder so Remus could see the metallic scar.

“I had no choice. After the healing, she couldn’t be roused. I had to drink her blood to wake her, and in turn, Draco’s as well. Their bond wouldn’t allow me to just taste one without the other. However satisfied I am at having them obey me, I do not take pleasure in the knowledge that I willingly consumed it. I am what I am and can be no different. I’m sure you understand,” Snape sneered in a condescending tone.

Remus sighed heavily. “I’m the last person who would condem you Severus. How many know?”

“Five in total.” He answered.

“These two, Dumbledore obviously, and me but that’s only four. Wait.” He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. “Ginny. You’ve consumed her blood as well. I can smell it.”

Hermione and Draco looked up in surprise.

“I can smell pheramones and blood bonds,” Remus said quietly. “Draco, you are now Snape’s blood son. I doubt if Fenrir will notice, but be careful around him. When you bond with Hermione, it will be even easier to detect. I suggest strong cologne to block the senses.”

Draco nodded dumbly. He’d never even thought of anyone noticing.

“There’s also the matter of glamours.” Snape said, shifting into planning mode. Some sort of truce had been made and both men had decided to lay their differences to rest. There was something more important at hand now.

“The Dark Lord has a ward around his domain that nullifies all glamours. After your bonding tonight, you will notice several things. One, Hermione you will gain Draco’s extra abilites and even a bit of his strength. Unfortunately, you will more than likely get fangs.”

Hermione nodded, unsurprised.

“Two, your hair will change colors again. I have read that these effects are temporary but do not underestimate them. This type of bond settles over a number of months. It is unknown how quickly this particular trait will settle, if it ever does. I know that the black streak in your hair is permanent, Draco. However, once this bond sets, only those who know of its placement will be able to see it, a rather useful feature. It will withstand polyjuice so you can’t be impersonated.”

Draco nodded, pleased.

“Three, and this is going to be the hardest one to hide. This type of bond produces rhunic markings all over one’s person. They will symbolize the type of bond, your types of magic, your health, and will even change should you be with child Hermione. No one knows where all of these markings will end up. I do know of one that will not be hidden. It will appear much like a muggle tattoo on the left side of your face, just next to your eye. Unfortunately, no glamour will cover it. This is the one we will need to focus on hiding.”

The couple once again nodded.

“There is one thing that we might be able to do though.” Remus said. “The runes don’t react to muggle make up. We could cover it with that. However, you must not get close to anyone or they could tell and wipe it off easily. It’s a giant risk, but from the little I understand about this whole situation, it is a necessary one.”

Snape nodded. “Miss Granger, I understand your parents are dentists.”

She nodded.

“They will need to make both of you caps for your fangs. That way, if the glamours drop, no one will be the wiser.”

“You wear caps?” Hermione asked, surprised.

“Only in front of the Dark Lord.” Snape said quietly.

Sensing the awkward silence, Remus spoke up. “I’ll head over to Albus’s office now to get updated. Good day.” Then he left, sealing the door behind him once more.

“That went well,” Hermione said cheekily.

“Don’t try me girl.” Snape said in a deadly tone.

Hermione stifled a giggle. She couldn’t help herself and couldn’t figure out just why she was acting so out of character. “Can I at least get up off my knees sir? This position isn’t exactly becoming of a girl in my situation.”

Snape’s eyes narrowed. “Miss Granger, I do believe you hold a rare sensitivity to pain potion, even the one I just gave you. Arise my children and bow before me no more.”

“I thought you said that would end after a week,” Hermione groaned as she rose from the floor.

“The compulsion did end. THAT was the sensitivity I told you about.” Snape smirked.

“Great. What happens if you do that and anyone was to walk by? What would people think? I’ve never resorted to favors for grades,” Hermione snarked.

Draco burst out laughing as Snape paled at the insinuation. “I would more than like to see you on your knees before me, Hermione,” Draco breathed. He gave her a heated glance and stalked toward her, fangs gleaming as he gave her a devilish grin.

“Stop this nonsense,” Snape snapped, breaking Hermione out of the trance Draco had put her in. She was practically panting.

Snape noticed that their bleeding was now only coming from their abdomens and arms from the elbows to the wrist. That would make it convenient to cover.

“Shirts off, children. We need to wrap this gauze around you to soak up the blood. Change them once an hour. I have extra supplies for each of you. If your bleeding increases, seek out each other immediately.”

Draco nodded and shucked his robes and shirt immediately. Snape scourgified him again and began unwinding the gauze. Hermione was mesmorized by his pale defined chest and the trail of white blonde hair leading down to his belt. She wanted to lick every rippling inch. Noticing her staring, Draco smirked.

“Something on your mind Hermione?”

“You look delicious,” she breathed and licked her lips. The erotic site of her staring at him like a piece of meat caused him to stir below. He wanted her badly.

“Enough!” Snape bellowed. He quickly wrapped Draco’s abdomen in gauze and tacked it into place with spell-o-tape. He then wrapped each of his arms and secured them as well, painfully aware that Hermione was practically salivating over Draco. He could smell her arousal. Looking up at Draco, his eyes narrowed.

“Your sense of smell has heightened?” He asked quietly.

“No father,” Draco hissed. “I don’t have to smell her to know how she’s feeling.”

“Get dressed.” Snape snapped. “You and I are going to work on your magnetisim during the holidays. I will NOT be witness to two hormonally driven teenagers shagging like nifflers for the next few weeks.”

Draco put his shirt on hastily, distracted by Hermione’s stare. “Isn’t that what you are supposed to do on you honeymoon?”

Ignoring him, Snape cleared his throat. “Miss Granger, your turn. Off with your shirt.”

Startled, she looked at him, her eyes wide. “My shirt, sir?”

“Yes,” Snape smirked. “I need access to your abdomen and arms. You need not fall to your knees for this.”

Hermione turned crimson and nervously unbuttoned her shirt. She was very unnerved by the indigo tint in her professor’s eyes. It hadn’t dissipated since Remus had left.

“I’ve seen more before Hermione,” Snape said gently. “You will be my daughter soon. There is nothing to fear. Does my appearance frighten you?”

“Just your eyes, sir,” Hermione squeaked as she shucked her shirt.

Snape nodded stoicly, replaced his glamours, and scourgified her and her blouse. Then, being careful to look only at her abdomen, he started gently wrapping her. When she started trembling, he stopped and looked up. Draco had her in a heated gaze. The boy looked as if he was about to eat her alive and she was reacting like a doe being stalked by a predator. Clearing his throat to break them out of their trance, he continued. He finished with her abdomen and moved to her arms, securing his work with tape. He then released her and allowed her to get dressed.

“Do try to keep your hands to yourselves for the rest of the day. Draco, I believe you should leave first. Don’t forget to change the bandages at least once an hour. I doubt you will be able to perform even the simplest of cleansing spells without further damaging your core until tonight. Make sure no one sees the blood.”

Draco metally shook his head to clear it of the lustful thoughts Hermione had given him. He nodded to his new blood father, gave a wink to his fiance, and made his way back to his next class. At least he’d be a bit early for it and he could clear his mind and focus on something else for a while. He and Hermione both had double potions with Slughorn as the last class of the day. That could prove rather interesting.

Hermione hastily finished buttoning up her shirt as soon as Draco turned to walk out. She didn’t know why she was so affected by him today but she just couldn’t help herself. She shook her head in confusion.

“It’s the magnetisim,” Snape answered her unasked question. “You’ll feel it until you bond, and probably even afterwards though you’ll be abe to ignore it. You’ll have it as well. The holidays will be used to control it and your newfound magic.”

Hermione nodded. She didn’t know what to say to him. He’d held her like his own wounded child when she was on the floor and bleeding to death. He’d admitted that he’d cared for her. She was eternally thankful for that. Without him keeping her grounded, she would have passed to the veil in despair. Resolutely, she walked over to him and gave him a firm hug.

Snape was so shocked he was unable to form words. He stood rigid against her embrace trying to work out what was happening. All he could manage was clearing his throat.

“Thank you father,” she whispered. “Without you, I’d be lost.”

Snape’s breath hitched. He wasn’t used to displays of affection or even a measure of gratitude from anyone other than Albus. He was dumbstruck but softened into her hold and gave her a gentle hug and an awkward pat on the back in return.

Hermione sniffled and then gently pulled back from her professor. His ebony eyes were soft and filled with unspoken emotions, his stature relaxed for the first time ever.

“I won’t mention this again for your sake sir. But I wanted you to know how grateful I am. You saved my life. It is a true pity that no one has ever gotten past your armor to see who you really are,” She whispered. A tear fell down her face and Snape gently wiped it off.

“She would be so proud of you sir. I know she would,” she said quietly. Snape stiffened. “I only hope you can look past your first and move on to find fulfillment in the time we have left.” She placed her finger to his lips to still his reply. “We must never forget, but living in or for the past isn’t really living at all. If no one ever says this to you, know this. I love you Professor Severus Snape. You are my mentor, my friend, and soon to be my father. You have value beyond your use as a spy. I only hope you start to see yourself that way as well.”

She walked to the door leaving her professor still standing there, stunned.

“I’ll see you tonight sir,” she said quietly and left for what was left class.

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Draco strolled into the Great Hall just as dinner was being served. He didn’t expect to see Hermione there, as Slughorn’s party promised food and was only moments from starting. He’d dutifully changed his blood soaked bandages every hour, which thankfully was only a handful of times. He had a time trying to explain why he had to use the loo so often.

Once, he’d soaked through when Slughorn refused to let him go until he’d added his crushed beetle wings. Luckily, he’d had his robes on and pulled them tigher around him until he found Ginny and had her scourgify him. So much for her not using any magic, but this was an emergency. It wasn’t like she hadn’t broken that rule over a dozen times today anyway. Hopefully, she’d be at full strength for the ceremony that night.

He was a bundle of nervous energy during dinner. He’d brushed Pansy off, stating that the potion given to him that morning for his magical mishap had made him feel a bit sick. He’d seen McLaggen on the way to dinner and listened to him brag about taking Hermione to Slughorn’s party. It had taken every ounce of strength he had not to knock his teeth out of his head for insinuating that he might be the first to warm her bed. The braggart left a bad taste in his mouth. Instead, he just laughed and made a wisecrack that turned his stomach.

“I don’t think so, McLaggen. Granger wears iron knickers. I doubt anyone could melt that icy bitch.”

It was met with raucous laughter from his fellow Slytherins and left the blowhard with a contemplative look on his face. He hoped against hope that he didn’t try anything with Hermione. He’d have to kill him.

Draco stoickly ate his shepherd’s pie and headed to the ROR. He had to give his godfather some sort of news to report to the Dark Lord. A half hearted assassination attempt should do the trick. It was decided to slip Slughorn a poisoned bottle of Oak Matured Mead. The walrus-like old man had ordered a bottle as a gift to the Headmaster and it presented just the opportunity to make it seem like a well thought out plan. Of course, the Headmaster was already aware of it so no one would be hurt, but it was an excellent cover. Tonight’s party presented the perfect chance to slip it in undetected as well as check up on his intended.

It still ate away at Draco that despite Hermione healing Dumbledore, the old wizard wanted to continue with the plan. He had stopped by the headmaster’s office for a quick chat before dinner. He’d have to have a skull session with Hermione on it later. There had to be a way around it.

At seven o’clock, Draco dutifully trudged down to the Slytherin dorms to retrieve the poisoned bottle of mead. He’d hidden this act from Hermione to spare her any anxiety on the matter. Hearing noises, he ducked into an alcove. Hermione and Ginny were heading down to Slughorn’s with their dates; McLaggen and some Ravenclaw he thought was named Dorsey. He could hear McLaggen trying to impress Hermione with his mediocre accomplishments. It was disgusting.

“I was just being a good sport when I let Weasley win the tryouts. I figured it would give the chap a boost. I’d say it was a good move. Of course, now that Katie is out of the game, I can show just how good I am. Course I hope she has a speedy recovery but I can’t say I’m disappointed with the chance to play.”

Ah. There it was. The deep remorse and crushing guilt he’d had when he first learned that Katie Bell had accidentally touched the cursed necklace. When he’d imperioused her, he didn’t think he’d end up hurting her. That was how he ended up in Myrtle’s bathroom anyway. He couldn’t handle the guilt and needed an escape. How strange that he found forgiveness in the one person who should condemn him.

They never talked about the necklace, per say. Hermione had let him know subtly that she knew he’d done it. She’d also let him know that Harry was on to him. However, the one thing she didn’t do was blame him for what happened. He hoped that was because she could see his remorse and not because she knew it was useless to accuse him. She couldn’t tell anyone about it anyway.

That necklace was the cause of some rather heated late night discussions with his godfather as well. He was cursed for his stupidity and then begged to let the grim man in on his plans so he could help. At that point, Draco wasn’t sure whose side Severus Snape was on but he did know that the Dark Lord had specifically said he could not garner anyone’s help, including that of his most trusted servant. After he’d learned of his godfather’s true allegiances, he’d had a long talk about his accountability. It did little to ease his guilt, but to know that at least one person was on his side was comforting.

Hermione felt Draco’s guilt the second those words escaped Cormac’s lips. She wanted to slug the boasting quidditch player right in the mouth for saying such horrid things but she had a show to put on as well. Still, she needed to see Draco, to comfort him. She knew that he felt horrible about what happened and feeling his guilt was eating her alive.

“Um, hey guys. I just need to nip into the bathroom for a bit. I’ll meet you by Professor Slughorn’s door okay?”

Cormac paused a moment. “Why don’t I just wait for you here, okay?”

“Oh, you don’t have to do that,” Hermione stammered. “I’ll just be a moment.”

She tugged at the sleeve of her dress, unconsciously pressing the bandages a bit. Unknown to her, a bit of blood seeped through to her sleeve. The anxiety was making her bleed heavier. Ginny’s eyes widened in horror. Quickly, she raised her wand and pointed it straight at McLaggan.

“Confundus!” She shrieked in succession, confusing both her and Hermione’s dates.

“Scourgify.” She said a bit more calmly and cleaned Hermione’s arm and torso bandages as well as the long sleeved ice blue dress she had on. She grabbed McLaggen’s arm with one hand and her date’s with the other and proceeded to drag him down the hall a ways.

“Don’t take too long, Mione.” She said over her shoulder. “I’ll see if I can find Professor Snape. We might need a few new memories before this is over.”

Hermione nodded her thanks and ran into the alcove she knew Draco was in. He picked her up and spun her around, thankful she saught him out. Having her in his arms immediately calmed his fears and insecurities. He held her in a crushing hug as he shook with the force of his emotions.

“I didn’t mean to hurt her,” He whispered.

“I know. I understand. I forgive you Draco. Now you need to forgive yourself. “

Draco nodded. “You are the kindest person I’ve ever known. Thank you for coming to me but you’d better get back before someone notices you missing. We can’t keep asking everyone to cover for us. Eventually, we’ll need to do this all on our own.”

Hermione nodded and gave him a tender kiss. Quickly, she sprinted out of the alcove and down to Slughorn’s office. Outside, she met up with Ginny who had both boys talking about quidditch. They’d seemed to have forgotten Hermione’s little faux pas earlier.

“New memories,” Ginny whispered softly in her ear. “They agreed to us meeting you down here. Thank him for me when you get a chance.”

Hermione nodded. Professor Snape had saved their arses once again.

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The party was horrible. Besides being dreadfully boring, Hermione had been working the entire time to stay away from Cormac. He was all over her and each time he touched her with dishonorable intentions, it stung her skin. She raced across the room and hid behind a few rather tall witches. Harry and Luna appeared there moments later.

“Hermione, Hermione!”

“Harry! There you are, thank goodness! Hi, Luna!”

“What’s happened to you?” Harry asked.

Hermione ran a hair through her hair. It was tangled and she winced when she hit a knot. “Oh, I’ve just escaped – I mean, I’ve just left Cormac...under the mistletoe.”

“Serves you right for coming with him,” Harry said tersely

“I thought he’d annoy Ron most,” she said quietly, leaving out the part that Draco had told her to. “I wished I’d asked Zacharias Smith but –“

“You considered Smith?” Harry hissed.

“Yes, I did, and I’m starting to wish I’d chosen him. McLaggen makes Grawp look like a gentleman. Let’s go this way; we’ll be able to see him coming. He’s so tall…” ¹

They mingled some more as Hermione deftly avoided McLaggen at all costs. At one point, Ginny had steered him away from her path and engaged him in a talk about the upcoming quidditch match. Suddenly, she caught sight of Draco being hauled in by Filch and her heart dropped. She moved closer to hear what was being said.

“Professor Slughorn, I discovered this boy lurking in an upstairs cooridor. He claims to have been invited to your party and to have been delayed in setting out. Did you issue him with an invitation?” Filch wheezed.

Draco yanked himself away and righted his clothing. “All right, I wasn’t invited!” He spat angrily. “I was trying to gatecrash, happy?”

“No, I’m not!” Filch scowled. “You’re in trouble, you are! Didn’t the headmaster say that nighttime prowling’s out, unless you’ve got permission, didn’t he, eh?”

“That’s alright, Argus, that’s all right,” Slughorn said jovially. “It’s Christmas, and it’s not a crime to want to come to a party. Just this once, we’ll forget any punishment; you may stay Draco.” ²

Hermione breathed a huge sigh of relief. That had been entirely too close. What would have happened if he’d gotten in trouble? What in the world was he doing here? She shot him a pointed look which he shrugged off. She saw Cormac coming over and bolted toward Draco, not thinking of the consequences. Snape was suddenly in front of her, between her and Draco.

“I’d like a word with you, Draco,” he said suddenly.

Slughorn protested but Snape insisted that he wanted to dole out his punishment. Draco shot her a glance that said ‘stay away from McLaggen’ and then turned around and walked out behind Snape.

“There you are!” Cormac said in a voice that made her skin crawl. She noticed that Harry was sneaking out to follow Snape. He never would learn. Deciding to make the most of it, she bolted after him.

“Sorry, need to powder my nose!” She squeaked as she left. She ran up the cooridor, hoping that Cormac hadn’t followed her. She looked over her shoulder to make sure and barreled into something extremely hard. Looking up, she saw Snape and Draco with their heads cocked in amusement.

“Your clumsiness knows no bounds Miss Granger.” Snape sneered but his tone was light. “Did someone cast a magnetism hex on you? You seem to be doing an awful lot of running into Mr. Malfoy here lately.”

“I’m sorry sir,” she squeaked. “I was, um, in need of some fresh air and I was looking over my shoulder instead of where I was going.”

“One would think that fresh air would be in front of you rather than behind,” Snape said with narrowed eyes.

“You’d think that, wouldn’t you?” Hermione gave a half laugh and then covertly looked over her shoulder again.

“Why don’t we move this into somewhere a bit more private? Then we can discuss your astonishing lack of grace,” Snape drawled and spun around. He led them into a classroom down the hall. Once they were in, he placed silencing and locking charms on the door.

“What in the hell is going on here?” He roared when they were up.

Draco sighed. “I had an assignment. I finished it but I got caught. It didn’t help that McLaggen couldn’t keep his filthy hands off of her. It was like I was being stung with a thousand tiny needles.”

Hermione huffed. “It wasn’t like I wanted his attention. He’s got more tentacles than the Giant Squid! I got shocked too you know. Anyway, I ran out because I saw Harry duck this way.”

“I knew that boy would never learn,” Snape growled. “Now, are we all set for tonight?”

Hermione started trembling. “I don’t know.”

“What is it now?” Snape sighed.

“It’s just that…well something doesn’t make sense to me.” Hermione bit her lip in contemplation. She wrung her hands as her eyes moved back and forth nervously.

“Spit it out!” Snape snapped.

“Is this necessary? I mean, it will work either way right? How is this going to make it stronger?” She closed her eyes to steady herself.

Snape nodded. “It is perfectly normal to have cold feet, especially in this situation. However, it is important that the ceremony happen. The way I understand it, each tie and bind you have gives you strength and stability. This particular one tonight will join you on an emotional level. You’ve developed certain feelings and so this can only help you.”

“So basically this will lend us balance?” Hermione asked in clarification.

“Yes. Remember, the magic must flow evenly to gain balance. Think of it as a spider’s web. The more strands that are attached to each other, the stronger the web. Magic is no different.” Snape explained softly.

Hermione nodded her head. “Ok. That’s all I needed to know. I’ll be ready.” She said softly and then looked over to Draco. He’d been standing quietly to the side and listening to their conversation with a pensive look on his face. She touched his cheek in question.

Draco looked up and gave her a soft smile. “I’m in. Don’t worry.” He leaned down and softly kissed her forehead. “See you later.”

Flushing, she waited for Snape to lift the wards and walked out the door and into something hard. “Who’s there?” She yelled loudly to let Snape know that Harry was still listening in.

“Hey, shhhh, Hermione, it’s me!” Harry whispered.

“Don’t do that to me!” Hermione snapped. “What are you doing out here anyway?”

“I, um, I saw Snape and Malfoy come this way,” Harry said in embarrassment.

“So?” Hermione asked cooly.

“I, it’s just, Hermione I know they are up to something!” Harry said helplessly. “I’m going to find out what it is.”

“I’ll tell you what it is,” Hermione hissed. “They’re trying to keep me alive. Is that a good enough explanation for you?”

Harry quailed. “No, I mean yes, I mean. Gah! I mean they are up to something besides that. What if they cursed you in the first place?”

“Harry that is ridiculous! Why on earth would Snape want to curse me? I mean, he’s the one having to keep me from killing myself and half the people in this school!”

“Not Snape!” Harry snapped.

“So you are saying that Malfoy cursed himself?” She barked incredulously.

“He could have,” Harry said sukily.

“I’m so sure,” She said dryly. “Harry, just go back to the party. There isn’t anything going on.”

Harry nodded and gave her one last calculating look before turning back around to go to the party. Deciding she’d had enough partying for one night, she made her way back up to Gryffindor tower. She had a wedding to get ready for.

Ginny was waiting for her when she got there. “What happened?”

“Oh Gin, in was horrible! Cormac was all over me. Thank you, by the way, for stalling him. Then, well you saw what happened and Harry followed and UGH!”

“Well, everyone is leaving tomorrow morning so you’ll have a few weeks for things to settle down.” Ginny consoled her, studiously avoiding the white elephant in the room.

Forgetting that they were supposed to meet Snape at nine o’clock, they spent the next few hours twisting her hair into an elegant chignon. Then Ginny wove tiny crystals in her hair so that it sparkled. The tiara looked beautiful on top. Her makeup was understated but elegant. Looking in the mirror, Hermione hardly recognized herself. She looked so grown up. About twenty minutes til midnight, Ginny helped her into her gown. Then she transfigured some elbow length gloves to cover the bandages they had just changed. It wouldn’t do to let her parents see her all bloody.

“How do I look?” She croaked.

“Like a princess!” Ginny squealed. “Oh you are so beautiful Mione.”

“Thank you,” Hermione whispered, fighting back tears.

“That’s what friends are for. Now, I nicked one of Malfoy’s cloaks so it would be big enough to cover everything.” She whipped a big, black cloak out from behind the bed.

“How exactly did you get that Gin?” Hermione hissed.

“Oh I have my ways,” Ginny said mysteriously. “Now, into the cloak. We haven’t much time.”

The girls snuck down the girl’s stairwell. They’d made a deal with Lavander and Parvarti for the use of the sixth years’ bedroom that night but they still needed to get out of the common room without being noticed. Quite a few people were still up and about. Some were talking about Slughorn’s party and others were busy chatting about the upcoming holidays. A few were rushing around and trying to pack to go home. They managed to get to the sofa without being noticed before they heard Ron and Harry talking. They quickly ducked behind it.

“I’m telling you Ron, something isn’t right. Malfoy is up to something.”

“Look mate,” Ron said, his words garbled as if he had a mouth full of chocolates. He probably did, knowing him. “I’m not saying you’re wrong. It’s just that, well you asked Mione. She said they’re just doing research. You know Mione. She wouldn’t cover for the likes of Malfoy.”

Hermione squeezed her eyes shut in pain. She was covering for Draco but they couldn’t know that. It brought thoughts of Dumbledore front and center. She decided then to use the upcoming holiday to search for the answer to that problem as well.

“I don’t know. She’s changed. What if they have her under-” Harry started choking and took a deep breath. “What if she’s imperiused?”

“Harry you know that Mione can throw it off. I’ve seen her do it. Look, it’s late and we have to leave early for the Burrow tomorrow. Let’s get some sleep.”

“No Ron. I’m going to find out what they are doing once and for all, with or without you.”

“Harry. Harry!” Ron yelled and chased after him up the stairs to the boys dormitory.

The girls took the opportunity to bolt out the door as soon as they were out of sight. They had to get to the great hall quickly.

“Oh gosh, I knew I was forgetting something,” Ginny panted. “Snape told me to nick that damned cloak of his. Now we’re in for it.”

On the way there, Hermione questioned how wise it was to continue on with the ceremony there. It was one thing to do it when most everyone would be gone from the castle. It was quite another when the castle was still full.

They came to a screeching halt outside the main doors to the great hall. There were several people standing there. Dumbledore was speaking with Professors Lupin and Snape, apparently going over the father’s part in the ceremony. Narcissa was there as well, speaking quietly to Draco, who was also in a black cloak. Suddenly, the great hall lit up and two people were thrown to the ground.

“Ah, everyone is here!” Dumbledore said joyfully. “Let’s all step inside and get started.”

“Professor!” Hermione hissed. “We’ve got a problem!”

“What kind of problem Miss Granger?” He asked worriedly.

“An invisible one,” Ginny said flatly.

“I see.” He said, the twinkle leaving his eye. He raised his wand and made a grand sweeping motion above the doors. “There, that sould insure everything is safe.” Then he motioned for Narcissa and Snape to join him. Ginny followed but Remus held back as the doors closed. She noticed that Draco had stayed outside as well.

“I smell blood,” Remus said softly and motioned for Hermione to take her cloak off. She clutched it tighter and viciously shook her head no. “Hermione, please let me clean it for you. You wouldn’t want them to see you like this now, do you?”

Hermione cautiously tugged the sleeves of the cloak up her arms. Her gloves were soaked with blood. She thought she heard a gasp and tightened her jaw. Seeing the two men stiffen, she realized that she’d been right. They both had more sensitive hearing after all. With a swish of Remus’s wand, the blood disappeared and she quickly let the sleeves back down. They fell a few inches below her fingers.

“The other as well Hermione,” Remus said gravely. She nodded and turned so her back was facing toward Draco. It was silly superstition, but she still didn’t want him to see her dress before they got into the great hall. Remus’s eyes widened when he saw the amount of blood that had gathered on the bodice of the snow white gown but flicked his wand so it would disappear as well.

“You too Draco,” Remus said softly as Hermione closed her robe back up. Draco unabashedly slid off his cloak and his shirt. The entire thing was soaked through with blood as well as his bandages.

“Blimey!” She’d heard it loud and clear that time. Remus kept flicking his wand to remove all the blood from Draco’s bandages and then his shirt. Then he spelled both their cloaks clean as well. After Draco had slid his clothes back on, Remus sent a stunner off into the corner followed by two ‘petrificus totalus’ spells. Two loud thuds could be heard as Harry and Ron hit the ground.The cloak slid off their bodies.

“When will you boys learn that sneaking around isn’t the best way to go about gathering information? I must say I am rather disappointed in you two.” Remus shook his head sadly. Then he turned around and entered the great hall. He turned around to close the doors. “We’ll call for you when we’re ready. The spell should hold until then.”

“Couldn’t leave your lapdogs at home, could you Granger?” Draco spat. She could tell it was for show.

“I didn’t exactly invite them Malfoy,” Hermione growled as she stomped over to the two boys lying stiff as boards on the floor. “You just had to do it, didn’t you Harry? You honestly don’t trust me. You don’t deserve an explanation but I found it Harry. I found the answer.” Then she spun around and started pacing the hall, nerves getting the better of her. Ten minutes crawled by and she saw Harry and Ron starting to stir.

“The spell is wearing off,” She whispered, knowing that Draco could hear it.

“Not much we can do about it just now,” Draco said a bit louder. “What in the bloody hell is taking so long?”

“Nervous are we?” Hermione teased, trying to ease her own anxiety.

“No,” Draco snorted. “I’m afraid I’m starting to bleed through.”

“It’s getting worse,” She whimpered. “They’d better hurry up.”

Just then, the door creaked open and Remus popped his head out. “They’re ready for you now.” He flicked his wand a couple dozen times. She could feel the blood vanishing and flashed him a smile. “On the count of ten,” He said softly and closed the doors again.

Hermione tripped on her cloak on the way over to the door and cursed herself for being such a clutz. Draco threw his arm out to catch her and chuckled.

“Scared Granger?” He sneered, obviously playing it up for their audience.

“Never!” She snapped and hitched up the cloak, marching toward the door.

“That’s my girl,” he whispered and shoved the door open ahead of her. As soon as they stepped over the threshold, the doors snapped shut and they felt the magic wash over them.

Hermione’s jaw dropped in amazement. The great hall had been redone to look like the inside of the Sistine chapel. Paintings adorned the walls and the tables had been transfigured into pews. Each row had a lovely arrangement of white flowers. A silk ribbon ran the length of the hall and connected all the unused pews together.

Draco slid his cloak off and hung it over one of the back pews. Then he turned to her and motioned for her to turn around. When she did, he gently slipped the cloak off of her and stepped back. She heard him gasp and turned around shyly.

His jaw dropped in an undignified gape for a minute or two. Suddely, someone coughed and broke him out of his reverie. He snapped his mouth shut and held his arm out for her to take. She could feel it shaking under hers. At least she wasn’t the only one who was nervous.

“You look beautiful,” he breathed as they made their way up to the dais. She blushed horribly but managed to walk smoothy to the front.

The head table had been removed. In its place, a large circle was drawn on the floor in gold. Two lines bisected it, marking the points on a compass. In the middle, where the lines crossed, another smaller circle was drawn. Narcissa and Snape stood where the north and south points crossed the outer circle. Remus and Ginny stood on the east and west points. Her father stood behind Remus and her mother stood behind Ginny.

Everyone was wearing white silk robes, even Snape. This sight caused her to giggle hysterically and earned her one of the dour man’s pattened stare downs. She snapped her mouth shut and lowered her eyes. Dumbledore stepped into the middle of the circle and cleared his throat.

“Welcome everyone to the joining of these two fine young people. Since time is of the essense, there will not be a reception afterwards. Therefore, anything that needs to be said should be done so now. I’ll give everyone ten minutes. It’s not much but it is all that can be spared. As I understand it, I have something to take care of outside.”

Hermione let go of Draco’s arm and walked unsteadily over to her parents. They’d met on the East point. Her parents grabbed her into a large bear hug. The moment was bittersweet though. As happy as she was that her parents were able to be there, she couldn’t forget that by the end of the night, they’d have no recollection of who she was.

“You look lovely pumpkin,” her dad said affectionately. She could tell he was fighting back tears. “I guess my girl is all grown up now. Of course, she would have to do it ahead of her time, just like everything else she puts her mind to.”

“Oh daddy, stop it! You’re going to make me cry.”

“Well,” her mother said softly. “It isn’t every day your only daughter gets married. We just want you to know how proud we are of you sweetheart and we’ll love you and support you no matter what.”

That did make Hermione burst into tears and squeeze both her parents for all they were worth. Words weren’t needed now. All she wanted to do was hold them one last time.

“Not much time left sweetheart,” her father said, frowning at his watch. “It’s a very strange wedding gift, but we made you these.” He held out two retainer cases. When she opened them up, she saw they contained caps for their teeth. “They’re custom made and labeled so you don’t mix them up. I don’t know why you need them, but they’re yours, just the same.”

“Oh daddy, they’re perfect!” Hermione gushed. She gave each of her parents a kiss before she headed back to the circle and awaited the start of the rest of her life.

Draco had made his way over to his mother and embraced her one last time, knowing she’d forget this moment as soon as she left. “Thank you for coming mother.”

“Nonsense!” Narcissa dismissed him with a wave. “I would never miss my only son’s wedding. Draco, I can’t tell you how proud of you I am. You’ve become a man all on your own. I must apologize that I haven’t done more in the past to help you.”

“You’ve done plently,” Draco stopped her. “You’ve given me unconditional love and a shoulder to lean on. It’s all I could ask for. I only hope that everything works out for the best.”

“Me too sweetheart, me too,” Narcissa said tearfully and hugged him once more. Then he turned around and walked back to the middle of the circle to wait for Dumbledore. He couldn’t help but stare at Hermione.

She looked like an absolute angel. Her hair glittered in the soft glow of the torches and her cheeks were pinked in a pretty blush. He knew she was pretty before, but now he had no doubt. Marriage to this beautiful creature wouldn’t be a burden at all.

¹Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince - JK Rowling pp 316-317
²Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince - JK Rowling pp 320-321

AN: Thanks everyone for the reviews! I hope this chapter has answered at least some of your questions. (You might recognize some of the dialogue too) Don't worry, it will pick up after this for a bit. I don't like solid action. The characters have to rest too!

As always, let me know how I'm doing and any errors you catch. You guys are awesome!
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