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Love and Forgiveness	By : HarryGinny4eva Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Draco/Hermione Views: 16328 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, nor any of the characters from the books or movies. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
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CHAPTER
7

Hermione couldn�t have said if it was the earlier call with Ginny and
her upset over it, the voice mail from an obviously nervous Draco, or her own
basic interest and curiosity, but at least one of the three made her want to
return the call immediately. But, since she rarely did things on impulse, the
previous night�s date with Blaise being a glaring exception, she decided to
give it some time and instead went to make herself some dinner. A call from
Beth later while she cleaned up the kitchen had helped calm her nerves
considerably.

It was nice to have a person to talk to who didn�t have a long history with
everyone concerned. And, Beth had encouraged her to call him. As she had said,
people changed, right? After talking to Beth, Hermione found herself standing
at her window, staring over at his brown building. It was so strange to have
two friends with such different attitudes toward her interest in getting to
know Draco better. While Ginny was stuck in the past, in their history, in the
pain he had caused all of them, Beth only knew the man she had met a week ago
and the Hermione she�d known for the past three years. Hermione knew there was
no way she could really make Beth understand the full breadth of their
turbulent past, no matter how much the other woman wanted to understand. But,
she couldn�t deny that she herself had grown up, changed, and let much of it
go. So, Beth�s words helped her decide to take a chance.

�Well, here goes nothing,� she laughed to herself. She went into her office and
sat down to write the letter.

Dear Dra�no. To Mr. Draco
Malfoy? No, too formal. Hello Draco? Simple and
informal without being too weird. But, wait, should I write to just him?
Blaise is coming to, right? Okay, how about�

Hi Guys,

I got your message and�

And, what? Burst out laughing? Can�t tell
him that, now can I? he he he Okay, uuuummm

I got your message. As a matter of fact, my friend Beth and I were planning to
go running tomorrow morning, if you are both available. We usually go pretty
early though, so we will leave it up to you two to let us know what time works
best for you. Owl or call to let me know when and where to
meet you.

Oh, and Beth has offered to make everyone lunch afterward, if you are
interested.

Hermione

Nice. Nothing weird. Talks to both of them. Leaves the quaffle on their pitch, so to speak. Perfect. Now, to get Snoop�s owl.

Hermione apparated to Snoop and Ron�s new apartment.
It had been her job to take care of their plants and pets while they were gone.
So, she figured Snoop wouldn�t mind her using the bird, even though Ron would
blow his top if he knew the reason.

�Okay, Article, I need you to take this to Messrs. Malfoy and Zabini. Then come
back to my place, okay? I�ll give you a treat when you get there. Now, off with
you.�

She watched the bird become a dot on the horizon and apparated back home to
wait for their reply. She was happy Beth had suggested joining them, that way
if they didn�t show, Hermione wouldn�t feel like she had been stood up, and if
they did show, she wouldn�t get overwhelmed by her own panic. With Beth there
she would be able to stay relaxed. And, Beth could make conversation with
anyone, so there wouldn�t be a lot of conversation lulls at lunch.

Hermione flopped onto the sofa and reached for the remote just as Article
swooped into her apartment. She glanced quickly down at the bird�s legs, but
saw nothing.

�Oh, well,� she said sadly to the bird, �I guess he changed his mind. I tried
though, right?�

Article hooted and nipped her finger gently, as if he understood and she
laughed, �Thanks for your support.�

After she had given the bird some water and a few treats, she flooed him home.

It was a few hours later while she watched Las Vegas that her phone rang. Being
deep into the show, and having given up on the guys, she assumed it would be
Beth when she answered, �Hola Chica!
Tell me Josh Duhamel is not the sexiest thing on two feet.�

�Uh, well, people tell me I�m not too bad to look at,� a deep voice laughed.

�Malfoy!� she exclaimed as her feet hit the floor and she shot to her feet.

He laughed, �Yeah. Um, hi, Grang�uh,
Hermione.�

�Hi. Sorry. Hello. Um, I thought you were Beth.�

�I should hope so,� he laughed again softly. �But, people don�t usually mistake
me for a girl. And, who�s this Josh person?�

�Just a guy from a show we both watch. So, um, I uh, got your message.�

She relaxed a teeny bit and smiled at his groan, �Oh man. Sorry about that. I
just, uh, didn�t know what to sa�I mean, I wasn�t sure if you would want to�crap! There I go
again.�

She held back a laugh at his nervous rambling. It actually steadied her a bit
to know that he was as nervous as she was.

�Well, did you get my note?� she asked.

�Oh yeah, Blaise got it while I was out flying. Sorry it took me, us, so long
to answer. Blaise is here, too.�

�Hey sexy thing!� she heard from somewhere near Draco.

She heard Draco�s exasperated growl and giggled, �Tell him hi back.�

�She says hi,� Draco repeated. �So, anyway what time do you two usually go?�

With his attention back on her and her nerves still in overdrive, Hermione
couldn�t stop her rambling, �Well, on weekends we try to get out around seven.
Then, we go back to one of our places and get cleaned up and eat. Like a
brunch, I mean. Nothing too fancy or anything. After
that we usually go window shopping or something. But, of course we can go
later, if that�s better for you guys. And, you don�t have to shop with us or
anything. I mean, you are welcome to join us though��

Her rapid-fire words were interrupted by his light laugh, �So, I�m not the only
one, huh?�

�What, huh?� she asked as her thoughts scattered.

�If I remember correctly, you only ramble like that when you�re nervous,� she
could hear his smile through the phone and caught the light teasing in his
voice. �And, since you heard my message, I think you already know where I
stand.�

She took a deep calming breath before she answered, �Yeah, I guess. Is this as
weird for you as it is for me?�

�More, I would think,� he laughed a little. �But, we can talk about it more
tomorrow. So, the fountain at the park a good place to meet?�

�Sure. What time?�

She assumed Draco put his hand over the phone because she could hear their
suddenly muffled voices in the background. Then Blaise was on the phone, �Babe!
Are you trying to kill me?�

The nerves she had been experiencing while talking to Draco vanished as
Blaise�s voice washed over her and she finally sat back down on her couch.

�Hey, Blaise,� she laughed. �What do you mean?�

�Tell me D is kidding please,� he begged. �I mean it�s
bad enough that I am going out in the city for you two, and running, which I
hate, by the way, but seven am! That�s just cruel.�

Hermione decided she would analyze the �for you two� part later and said,
�Well, I said we could go at whatever time you guys wanted to go.�

�What? D, she said we can go later. Come on, please. How about nine? Hermione?�

The pleading in his voice had her giggling, �Not a morning person, huh?�

As his harrumph, she continued, �Okay, nine it is. At the
fountain by the park.�

�Okay, I can do that. Thanks, I think,� he laughed. �Running, what the
hell am I thinking!�

Hermione decided to let him know his messages had gotten through and joked,
�Helping two people with a really long history and who are completely and
totally socially inept?�

He laughed with her, �Man, am I a good guy! Well, I am going to have to go get
my beauty sleep, so I am going to say goodnig�What?�

Again a hand muffled the phone before she heard, �Oh, well, night Hermione.
Hold on, okay? D wants to say good bye.�

She heard a door close before she felt the thrill of nerves slide back over her
at the sound of his voice, �Hermione?�

�Uh, yeah?� she asked.

�Thanks.�

Her brow puckered in confusion, �For what?�

�For giving me a chance,� he said softly.

�Oh, well, I,� she took a breath. �Draco, I thank you, too, then.�

�Okay, well then. I guess I�ll see you in the morning then?�

With a smile on her face she sighed, �You sure will. Good night.�

�Night, Hermione.�

She jumped up and squealed like a giddy school girl who�d just been asked out
on her first date. Then, realizing how silly she looked, even though she was
alone, she fell back across the sofa with a large smile of wonder on her face.

What a difference a few years makes, huh?

Quickly, before the feeling could fade, she grabbed her phone again and called
Beth.

�I feel like a teenager again,� she giggled.

��

Hermione smiled into the morning sun as she ran beside Beth. As usual, Beth had
been right in suggesting she join the three for the run. The first ten minutes
of stretching would have been done in absolute, uncomfortable silence, if she
hadn�t shown up and started chattering away. She and Blaise kept the
conversation light and forced Draco and Hermione to relax a little. They even
participated in the debate on how long to run, each of the three claiming they
could go further, until Blaise had finally begged them to put a time limit on
it. By the time they had set off in the park, a much more companionable silence
had taken over. The guys jogged in front of them and the girls followed behind,
as they enjoyed the gorgeous view presented to them.

The contrast between the two men was startling as they moved together, like
they had done this forever. Where Blaise was darker and bulkier, Draco was
lighter and more streamlined. Blaise ran all out, as if he had a race to win,
while Draco ran with an easy confidence and a more measured step. Hermione also
took note that the image of Draco in her head differed greatly from the man
moving so fluidly in front of her. She had always thought him too pale and a
bit skinny, but years of Quidditch and running had given him a finely cut physique,
with broad shoulders, strong arms and a narrow waist. She realized as her eyes
traveled up his well-muscled legs to his tight little tush,
that he also had an even light tan.

A quick glance over at Beth had her blushing when she realized she had been
caught staring at Draco�s rear.

�What can I say, it�s cute,� she laughed softly.

�What was that?� Blaise called back.

Beth laughed, �Nothing. Just admiring the view.�

The laughter bubbled up in the women until they had to step off the path to get
their breath back. Blaise took this as a sign that his torture was over and
doubled back to fall dramatically at their feet.

�So, we�re done?� he asked hopefully.

Draco glanced at his watch and then looked around to see how far they had gone,
�Well, there�s only about a quarter mile back to the starting point, so we�re
almost there B.�

�Aww, poor
baby, Blaise. Out in the big bad city, with muggles and the like, AND
being forced to exercise, too? What awful friends you have,� Hermione teased
the man at her feet. Then she reached out to help him up, �Come on Big Guy, think of what those legions of women would say if they saw
you like this.�

Beth giggled, �Well, having a good looking man at my feet isn�t such a bad
thing, Mione.�

Draco and Hermione laughed when Blaise bounced up and winked at Beth, �Oh
really? Well, I guess I will have to show off my more manly side from here on
out. Race you back to the start?�

Beth looked down and said, �I don�t know, my ankle��

Blaise bent down to examine the offending body part, �Oh, let me��

And, Beth was off and running.

�You cheat!� Blaise yelled as he took off behind her.

Draco laughed and looked at Hermione who shook her head and smiled, �You guys
never learn.�

He simply shook his head with a smirk and then inclined his head, �Shall we?�

With a nod she fell into step beside him.

When they reached the other pair they found them slumped together on the edge
of the fountain.

�I would have won if you hadn�t grabbed me,� she laughed.

�Well, I couldn�t let you beat me. How would that have looked? I would have
lost all my man points!� Blaise laughed.

Beth giggled, �Well, you didn�t do too bad for your first run.�

Hermione started her cool down stretch and asked, �So, what�s for brunch?�

�Sandwiches. Do it yourself style,� Beth answered. �Is
that okay with everyone?�

Hermione bent over and touched her hands to the ground, �Fine with me.�

Blaise stood and stretched, �Finally, something I know how to do.�

Beth turned to Draco and burst out laughing. Blaise and Hermione looked over at
him and Blaise joined her when they caught Draco staring at Hermione�s butt.

��

�Damn, that stings, Hermione!� Beth screeched when Hermione had completed the
cleansing charm that they all agreed would be faster than 4 separate showers.

�My turn,� Draco said as he stood in front of her.

Hermione smiled up at him for a moment before she murmured the words of the
charm and tapped his shoulder with her wand.

When he didn�t flinch Beth asked, �So, it gets easier the more you do it?�

Blaise stepped forward so Hermione could repeat the charm on him and answered,
�No!� as the sting hit his skin.

Hermione then repeated the charm, tapped her own shoulder and let out a soft, �Eee.�

�Well, at least it�s not just us muggles that have to suffer,� Beth laughed.

They all moved over to the kitchen to starting putting together a light brunch.

Hermione started to pull out plates and silverware,
while Draco took the things she pulled down and placed them on the table.
Blaise leaned against the counter and admired the view of Beth bent over in her
fridge, �So, tell me. How did you two meet? And, how are you so okay with all
this magic stuff?�

Beth glanced back and saw where his eyes where, �You sure won�t find the
answers there,� she quipped. �Here, take these.�

Blaise took the condiments from her and continued his train of thought, �Well?�

Hermione began the story, �Well, I went for a walk one day a little after the
start of second year. I needed a break. Some days Snoop kind of made me tired.�
She laughed in memory, �It was like living in a constant interview for a while
there. Anyway, so I went out for a walk, and there was a big, beautiful
building full of brand new books!�

Beth shook her head and laughed as she spread mustard on her bread, �Only Mione.�

Draco joked, �Some things never change,� and earned himself an elbow in his
side.

Hermione poked her tongue out at her friend and continued, �So, I went in to Barnes
and Noble and before I knew it I was begging for a job. I didn�t need the
money, but I was told I got a discount on all purchases.�

�I got to be her trainer,� Beth jumped in. �We had all the same shifts, so we
were together like every waking moment for a while there. We got to know each
other pretty well and started hanging out together on weekends and stuff, but
she would never invite me over, no matter how often I had her over here.�

When the men looked to her, Hermione defended herself with a grin, �Well, I
lived in a University apartment. I couldn�t very well explain away the owl,
fireplace to nowhere, potions, cauldrons, and a roommate that could disappear
and appear at will. I thought she would think I was a wacko.�

Blaise joked, �Well, I always thought you were kind of wacko and I knew you
were a witch.�

Hermione tossed a potato chip at him, �Ha ha ha. You are so funny!�

They all retreated to the table and Draco poured ice tea for everyone as Beth
continued, �So, anyway, one day I decided to follow her to see what was going
on. I had begun to think she was in the Witness Protection Program or
something. And, I knew she lived near me and the store, because she always
walked to and from work. So, there I am following her, when she ducks into an
alley. I took off running to catch up, but when I got there she was gone.�

�I wasn�t ducking her. I didn�t even know I was being followed,� Hermione
laughed.

Draco smiled over at her, �Finally let your guard down, huh?�

She knew that he was talking about all the years she had spent in panic mode,
and smiled at his understanding, �Yeah, I guess I had.�

Beth winked at Blaise and smiled at the obvious link between the two opposite
her, �So, for about a week, I kept it up, each time running down the alley to
search the streets on the other end. Finally, I figured I should just get to
the alley first. Imagine my surprise when she showed up, walked to the middle
of the alley, looked around as if checking for something, and then
disappeared.�

�I still can�t believe you got up the nerve to come see me do it again!�
Hermione laughed.

�What?� Blaise asked.

�Yeah, the next day, I got there before she was supposed to come to work. I
knew what I had seen, but I still couldn�t quite believe it. I wanted to see if
it had been a figment of my very active imagination. I was there for about ten
minutes before she just popped up in front of me.�

Draco leaned forward a bit, �And, you weren�t scared or anything?�

�You know what? No. Honestly, I�ve always believed there were a lot of strange
things in this world that can�t be explained by science and such, so no, I
wasn�t scared. To tell you the truth, I think Mione was a lot more scared than
I was,� Beth laughed.

�That�s for sure,� Hermione concurred. �I was running late for work because of
a late class, I apparated to my normal place and was about to take off running
when she hops off a dumpster and says, as calm as you please, �Can you teach me
how to do that?� I about had heart failure.�

�Seeing as she had no choice anymore, Mione had to come clean with me. So, we
both called in sick to work, and I got to see my first witch�s apartment. We�ve
been friends ever since.�

Hermione shook her head, �You guys would be surprised how many people out there
just don�t care.�

�And, I must say, there are times when having a witch or two on your side can
be really helpful,� Beth smiled at Hermione fondly.

�Like when?� Blaise asked.

Beth blushed and answered, �Well, that�s a story for another time.�

Draco got the feeling they were touching on a subject neither Beth nor Hermione
wanted to elaborate on, so he decided to change the topic.

�So, what is you do, Beth? For a living I mean.�

�Advertising copywriting. And, you guys?�

Blaise answered, �I got my degree in marketing, but I still don�t know what I
want to do yet. Luckily, I have the time and money to figure it out.�

�B�s going to be an eternal student, so he never has to get a real job,� Draco
joked. �My degree is in forensics. I know that would shock most of the people
who knew me,� he risked a glance at Hermione, �but, I found I liked the
research work. And, loved being able to solve mysteries.�

Hermione thought she understood where some of his drive came from. Without
thinking she placed her hand over his on the table and asked softly, �And, it
doesn�t hurt to get to fight for the good guys, huh?�

She gets it. Okay. Wow!

He smiled at her and turned his hand over so the two could join, �No. No it
doesn�t.�

For the next hour they sat around and talked. Hermione was relieved that the
conversation never really lulled and she found Draco to be easier and easier to
talk to. It pleased her greatly to find out how much they had in common, from
music, to foods, to authors. And, it thrilled her when he slung his arm over
the back of the sofa they shared and idly played with the ends of her hair.

By the time the men stood to leave they had already agreed to another running
date. And, Blaise had decided that he and Draco were going to host a party the
following weekend for Draco�s birthday. Beth tried to be subtle, but failed
miserably, when she, out of the blue and very awkwardly, asked Blaise to help
her take the trash out before they left.

They ran out together each holding on to the same one bag of trash, and left
Draco and Hermione standing together each with an amused smile on their faces.

�Well, this is awkward,� she finally laughed into the silence, unable to meet
his eye.

Draco laughed, but stepped forward to her. When he stood close enough for their
bodies to almost touch he said softly, �Please don�t hex me, but I�ve been wanting to do this for the past week and a half.�

She looked up just as he lowered his head and their lips met. An instant shiver
ran down her body and back up, and she sighed as he moved closer and laid his
hands on her hips. With a slant of his head he deepened the kiss a fraction and
Hermione�s hands lifted to his chest. His appreciative groan at her touch
warmed her to her toes.

Draco decided that ending the kiss ranked way up on his list of things he
hated. But, he knew neither of them would want to go too far too soon, so he
pecked her lightly one last time and looked down into her dazed eyes.

He wasn�t sure what would be the best thing to say, so he stayed quiet and just
enjoyed looking at her. He loved watching the play of emotions across her face
as she assimilated and dissected the kiss.

He let out a surprise bark of laughter when she finally focused her eyes on his
and sighed, �I just kissed Draco Malfoy.�

When she beamed up at him and didn�t pull away he asked playfully, �So you
aren�t planning to hex me then?�

�Not after that,� she answered with a grin.

They were interrupted from further conversation by the return of Beth and
Blaise. And, a few hugs later the girls were left alone.

Hermione noticed a slightly dazed look on Beth�s face as she leaned back
against the door she had just closed. With a knowing look she asked, �Beth, you
okay?�

Beth swallowed and nodded, �Damn, that man can kiss!�

CHAPTER 8

Hermione helped Beth straighten up her place and then they sat around
for a while comparing notes. It was nice for Hermione to be able to talk to
someone so freely about things. Plus, she got to hold on to her high from
Draco�s kiss for a while longer. She and Beth compared their kisses and giggled
like schoolgirls. While Hermione described hers as tender, surprising, and toe-tingling,
Beth could only keep saying, �Hot!�

It was a little after noon when she finally apparated home, a huge smile on her
face.

�Supwise!� small voices called out.

She let out a scream of fright at the appearance of people in her living room
and before she could recover fully two tiny blurs hit her in the knees, �Aunt
Mione!�

�Teddy? Jamie?� she said slowly, �What? Uh, hi.� She
bent down and scooped them into her arms as her eyes collided with Ginny�s.

She jumped again when she heard Harry�s voice from her left, �I guess we really
did surprise you, huh?�

She laughed nervously and stood up, �Yeah, you did. So, hi.
Um, what brings you guys here again so soon?�

Ginny looked away and started to fuss with Albie�s
diaper. Harry sighed heavily and answered, �Well, I got back from my retreat
and Ginny gave me an earful about you. Then, we had a bit of a row about
things. Then Molly got involved. She rightly suggested you two needed to talk.
One thing led to another and we thought it best we come over so we could all
talk.�

Hermione turned to where Harry had indicated and saw Molly in her kitchen
doorway, an apron already wrapped around her motherly form.

�Oh, I, um, okay.� Hermione looked from Molly to Harry to the top of Ginny�s
bent head and felt her giddiness ebbing away. �Well, let me go change.�

Before she could leave the room though, Ginny spoke with her head still down,
�Um, Mione, we�ve been here a little while and you got a message on that phone
machine thing a little while ago. We didn�t mean to listen, but we were here
and, well, um, you should probably listen to it.�

Confused, Hermione walked over and pressed play.

�Hi. It�s me. Draco. I know I just left you, but I wanted to tell you again
that I had a great time this morning. And, I am really looking forward to
seeing you again soon. Call me later if you want to talk or anything.� Then she
heard his deep chuckle as he added, �Oh, and since I didn�t ramble this time,
can we pretend this is the first message I�ve ever left for you? Bye Hermione.�
Beeeeeeeeep

Hermione giggled at the last part of his message and smiled as she looked up.
Only then did she remember two very important things. First, she wasn�t alone.
And, second, three of the people standing in the room with her would not have been
happy to hear that message the first time, much less the second.

With a deep sigh the smile fell from her face and she pressed save on the
machine. Without looking at any of them, she said heavily, �I�ll be right
back.�

She shut her bedroom door just as she heard Teddy ask, �Who�s
Dwaco daddy?�

Her brow lifted in surprise when she heard Harry�s reply, �I think he�s a
friend of Aunt Mione�s. Come on, Champ, let�s see if
we can find some cartoons on this TV?�

She flopped on her bed let her mind wrap around the arrival of her friends.

Hmmmm, a friend of mine, huh? Seems Harry has learned
to control his anger. I wonder how long I can stay in here before they come in
after me? Seriously, why now? I love them both, but I
was actually happy for a whole morning! Well, time to face the music. Wait. Why
am I the one who has to face anything? I haven�t done anything wrong, dammit! Yeah, he was a git and a prat and an ass in school, but he�s not that person
anymore. I can like him if I want! And, I do, I think.

Their kiss came back to her and a soft smile lit her face again.

Yes, I do.

She changed her clothes and straightened her shoulders before she went to her
door. Her righteous indignation flowed through her as she wrenched the door
open a bit harder than she�d planned. And, she saw everyone in her living room
flinch.

�Sorry,� she mumbled. �Can I get you anything to drink or whatever?�

Harry walked over and hugged her, �No, we already raided your fridge and Molly
made the kids sandwiches.� Then he leaned down and said softly, �Relax Mione.
We�re okay.�

Her eyes flew to search his and she relaxed when all she saw was love and
support looking back at her. Then she risked a glance to where Molly and Ginny
sat cooing at Albie.

�Okay, then.� She was unsure what to say or where to start, so she simply stood
there wondering how to get the conversation started.

Molly saved her when she stood up and said, �Okay boys. Time
to go to the park, like I promised.�

Hermione smiled as Teddy jumped up and down yelling, �Carousel, carousel.� But,
her smile turned to shock when three year old Jamie clapped and shouted in glee
and everything in the room turned rainbow in color.

Even Ginny laughed, �Sorry about that. But, I did warn you.�

With an experienced flick of his wrist, Harry set everything back to its normal
color and handed Molly a large diaper bag.

�You remember how to get there and everything? You�ll be alright?� he asked
worriedly.

Hermione grinned at his fatherly worry and smiled outright when Molly answered
indignantly, �Harry James Potter, I raised seven children, I think I can manage
my grandchildren and moving about a few blocks in this city!�

�I know, Molly, just be careful okay?� Then he bent down on one knee to face
Teddy, �No magic. No making Grandma yell at you. And, you help her take care of
Jamie okay?�

He put his little hands on his hips in a perfect imitation of Harry, �I know
Dad. Can we go now?�

�Sure thing,� Harry smiled and ruffled the child�s hair as he stood. �Thanks
again, Molly.�

�Of course,� Molly answered. And, finally giving Hermione a clue as to why she
was there, she smiled lovingly at Hermione and added, �We�re going to be gone a
while, so take your time getting Gin�s head on straight! Bye now.�

With that she took the boys� hands and left the apartment through the front
door.

Wait! Molly�s okay with this? And, Harry? Huh!

As if he could read her mind Harry laughed softly, �No need to pinch yourself,
you�re not dreaming. Come on, sit down.�

Hermione slowly made her way over to the chair and perched on the edge, while
Harry relaxed back on the sofa. The silence weighed on all of them as Ginny
took her time putting Albie in his rocker. Then she
joined Harry on the sofa and looked at her clasped hands.

�So, you and Malfoy, huh?� Harry asked, breaking the
quiet.

�Um, well, he, that is I, I mean, well yeah, but it was only one date. And, I�m
sorr�No, I�m not sorry. But, it wasn�t even a date
really, just the four of us jogging and, well we ate, but I mean Blaise and
Beth were there, too, so, well, I�� she trailed off not knowing how to explain
things properly.

She heard Ginny take a deep breath and braced herself for the onslaught. She
noticed Ginny glance up at her and then drop her eyes again before she spoke.

�Look, I�ve been forced to think a lot about this and Mione, I�m sorry. I
should have listened to you and not jumped all over you. I guess it�s still
hard for me to see beyond the past. I still see the beaver teeth he gave you,
the way he treated you, the names he called you. I watched him and his cronies
make all of your lives hell for years and I, well I guess I overreacted a
little. I mean, I love you and I trust you, and your judgment, so if you say
he�s changed, and even Mom and Harry suggest that it could be true, then, um, I
guess I can deal with it. For you, I mean. I want you happy and if dating
Malfoy makes you happy, then I will not make things more difficult for you.�

�Oh, Gin,� Hermione whispered.

Ginny�s tearfilled eyes finally lifted to hers and
she grabbed blindly for her husband�s hand as she continued, �But, promise me
one thing, okay?�

�Of course.�

�Well, I�m not saying he will, you understand, not at all, but if he
hurts you, ever, in any way, you�ll tell me?� the fiery red-head asked softly.
�I want us to still be able to talk about everything, Mione. I wouldn�t want
you to think you have to hide anything from me, from us, just because I can�t,
as you said, grow up.�

Hermione rushed over to hug her. They shared tears and a hug as they made up
and then Hermione turned to Harry and sat back down.

�And, you?�

�Well, I know things about him that you two don�t, from work. Both good and bad. And, it�s been a long time, but the last
time I spoke to him I realized he wasn�t the same kid we knew. The war changed
everyone, like I told Gin. We�ve all changed, why wouldn�t he? I do admit to
being initially shocked when she told me about you guys meeting up with him and
Blaise at the club though. But, only because I never thought he would have the
guts to approach you.�

At her surprised look he answered her unspoken question, �Yes, I knew he was
here. We keep tabs on everyone who was involved back then. I was the one who
made sure he got the letter from USWU first. I couldn�t stop AWU from accepting
him, but I hoped he would jump at whatever came first and I got my wish.�

�And, you didn�t say anything!� she asked more than a little upset that he had
kept that from her.

�I�m sorry. But, we were so busy just watching everyone and keeping tabs on
everything that the only thing I was thinking at the time was to keep him and
Blaise away from you. You had enough to deal with after The Fall. I didn�t want
you worrying about him, too. Then, as time passed and you starting becoming
yourself again, I just didn�t want you to have to deal with it. So, yes, I kept
it from you and before you jump all over me you should know Ginny already did.�

Hermione laughed a little, but then answered, �Okay, I get what you did, but I
don�t agree with why. After all we�ve been through together I can�t believe you
didn�t think I could handle that. I�m a big girl, Harry. I can protect myself.�

�Hey, I, of all people, know that!� he said as he sat forward and grabbed her
hand. �But, I didn�t want you to have to handle it. You were strung so tight after
everything; so paranoid, scared, sad, hard. You didn�t trust anyone or
anything. And, you never spoke to anyone outside of us and the other Order
members. You jumped at the smallest things and you and Ron had, well�you just
had so much to get over. You just weren�t yourself anymore and I missed you.
Call me selfish, but I wanted my best friend back. I was overjoyed when you
finally took charge of your life again and started to come back to me. I
couldn�t be the one to cause that all to come back. I�m sorry, but I just
couldn�t.�

Hermione squeezed her friend�s hand, but before she could say anything Ginny
laughed a little, �And, just think, you and Malfoy wouldn�t be getting together
now if you had known about him all along.�

�I guess not,� she smiled.

Ginny asked softly, �So, we�re okay?�

Hermione smiled a real smile at her friends, �Yeah, we�re okay.�

�Thank you,� Ginny smiled back. �So, um, can I ask a question?�

�Sure,� Hermione answered as she blew out a breath. �Shoot.�

Ginny grinned and curled up next to Harry, �Care to explain how this all
happened? I mean, how�d you go from hating to dating
and from Zabini to Malfoy in just three days?�

For the next couple of hours she filled them in on all that had transpired.
They laughed and joked and Hermione rejoiced in being able to share her life
with them finally. Things felt right.

She and Ginny shared a laugh at Harry�s overprotective behavior when he called
Molly to check in for the third time. And, they teased her good-naturedly over
her new affinity for Slytherins. When Molly returned later in the evening it
was to find a very happy Hermione holding Albie and
giving him his bottle, while Ginny and Harry fought over the TV remote.

After dinner Molly said her goodbyes and flooed home.
Since things were back to normal between them, Hermione asked them to stay. It
made no sense for them to go back home before they got to see Snoop and Ron,
who were due back the next day. And, although it remained unsaid, they each
felt Hermione needed the extra support around when Ron found out.

Ginny put the children down in Hermione�s second room, which they transfigured
into a nursery for the night, and the three sat around talking and playing
board games. It was almost ten o�clock when her cell phone rang.

She saw the name on the readout and glanced nervously at her friends. It was
time to put their understanding to the test.

�Hey,� she answered.

�So, I guess my amazing kiss didn�t deter you from him, huh?� she heard him
purr.

�Uh, sorry Blaise, but no,� she laughed. She hoped he was joking and realized
he was when he laughed in return.

When Ginny and Harry both turned to look at her, she looked away before
continuing, �So, uh, what are you doing home and calling me on a Saturday
night?�

�Well, all that getting up early and running crap made
me tired. I don�t know what you guys see in it,� he laughed.

�You get used to it,� she answered. �Um, look, I have company right now, so I
really can�t talk, but��

�Oh really?� he interrupted. �Should D be jealous?�

She laughed, �No, nothing like that. Harry and Gin came over to surprise me
today.�

She heard him pause before he answered, �Oh. Well. Oh. Do they know it�s me?�

�Yes.�

�Oh, okay, well, um, I guess I�ll let you go then. Don�t let them give you too
hard a time, okay?�

She smiled at the protectiveness in his voice, �No worries. They��

Harry then surprised her when he called out, �Tell him hello.�

�Um, Harry says to tell you hello,� she repeated.

�I heard,� he said with a laugh. �I almost choked on my gum.�

Her jaw dropped when Ginny added softly, �Maybe you should invite him, them,
over for lunch or something tomorrow. Might as well get to see this change for
myself, right?�

She let out a garbled laugh when Blaise said in her ear, �Hell just froze over,
right!�

��

�Jamie, stop hitting your brother!� Ginny demanded.

Harry, without even looking up from his morning paper, added,
�Boys!� And, Hermione held back a giggle at seeing her friends be so
parental, while the boys ignored them completely.

She continued to layer the items on her lasagna for their luncheon, �So,
anyway, Beth should be here any minute and she says she wants Harry to teach
her Wizard�s chess.�

Ginny teased, �Well, at least he�ll finally have someone he can beat.�

�Hey!�

�Relax, love, I was kidding�mostly,� Ginny answered.

Hermione laughed with them and added the cheese to the top. Ginny quickly
scribbled down Hermione�s actions and asked, �How do you know how much to put
on top?�

�You just do, Gin. Once you do it the first time you�ll��

They all jumped a little when at the same time the doorbell rang, the fireplace
bell tinkled, and a loud pop was heard from the living room.

�What the�� Hermione exclaimed.

Each grabbed a child and hurried into the living room where Ron and Snoop stood
beaming at them. The boys screamed for their Uncle Ron, as Ginny and Hermione
ran to embrace both. It wasn�t until the fireplace bell tinkled a second time
and the doorbell went off again, that any of them remembered the other
arrivals. In her joy, Hermione didn�t think as she flicked her hand towards the
fire releasing the protective charm and went to open the door for Beth.

Wow, I almost forgot Beth. And the fireplace.
Blaise and�Crap!

She opened the door and Beth bounded in with a cheery hello, but the silence
that greeted her stopped her in her tracks.

Hermione saw the look on her friend�s face and couldn�t make herself
turn around. The silence stretched uncomfortably, until even Albie felt the tension and started crying in her arms. Beth
stepped around her, patted her on the arm and went into save mode.

�Hey guys! Snoop, you look fabulous! I see marriage agrees with you. Blaise, Draco long time, no see.�

Hermione slowly closed the door and turned to face the group. Harry and Ginny
stood stiffly, each holding a child and trying to smile politely. Snoop stood
still and looked from one person to another in shock. Ron looked to be holding
his breath, while he flexed and fisted his hands. Beth had moved to stand next
to Blaise and had her hand on his arm. And, when she finally let her eyes rest
on Draco�s face, Hermione smiled. He stood straight and proud, looking at her
with a mixture of hope, defiance, and support, and he held a tiny bouquet and a
bottle of wine. His wink eased the tension in her shoulders and she pushed away
from the door.

�So, this is an unexpected surprise,� she said brightly to Snoop and Ron. �I
thought you guys wouldn�t be back until later tonight.�

When no one moved, she continued and edged toward the kitchen, �Sit, sit. We all
want to hear every detail of your trip. Well, not every detail,� she laughed
awkwardly. No one else laughed.

�Well, let me get everyone something to drink. Um, Draco why don�t you bring me
that wine.� With that she slid into her kitchen and dropped her head into her
hands.

She heard the door close behind her and felt his hands on her shoulders. He
squeezed once and she leaned back into him. His hands slid down her arms to
enfold her in a hug before he said, �I�m sorry. Want us to go?�

She spun around to look up at him, �No! I��

At that point it seemed Ron had reached his breaking point.

�What the HELL IS GOING ON HERE!�

Ginny gasped, �Ron, the children!�

His voice dropped a fraction, �I suggest you put them in the other room then,
Ginny!�

From the kitchen all they could hear was the movement of bodies and the
children complaining about having to go in the nursery. Hermione flinched when
Harry yelled at them to listen to their mother, and Jamie started to cry. She
dropped her head onto Draco�s chest and drew in a shuddering breath. As silence
reigned once again in the other room, Draco put his hand under her chin to lift
her eyes to his.

�Hermione, I�m only asking because I don�t want you hurt, not because of me.
Are you really sure enough about wanting to try this, I mean see me, to do this
now? If you are, then I�m in one hundred percent and behind you all the way,
because I know I want to at least try this, whatever it is between us. But, if
you would rather, you know, let it go for a while, then I�ll understand and B
and I can...�

In answer she slid her hand up to his face and covered his lips with her
fingertips to silence him. Then she smiled up at him, �I�m in.�

His relief was so clear on his face that she giggled a little.

�Well, then let�s pop this wine and go face the music,� he winked at her. �But,
I think we�re going to need more than just this one bottle.�

��

CHAPTER 9

Hermione levitated the glasses on a tray, while Draco carried the now
two bottles of wine and two of firewhiskey and together
they entered the silent room of glaring adults. Their entrance seemed to act as
a signal for the fight to begin as everyone jumped to their feet.

Ron � WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON HERE!

Ginny and Snoop � Ron, please.

Harry � Let her explain.

Blaise � Same hot head as always.

Beth � Maybe we should all calm down.

Hermione � Ron, I�

Draco � Cool it, Weasley!

Ron �WHAT DO YOU MEAN EXPLAIN! TELL ME I AM NOT SEEING WHAT I THINK I AM
SEEING!

Snoop � Ron, honey, please calm down. I�m sure there�s a reasonable explanation
for all of this.

Ginny � Would you stop yelling, dammit!

Harry � RON, WOULD YOU JUST LISTEN? GIVE THEM A CHANCE TO EXPLAIN.

Blaise � What�s it to you anyway, Weasley? They�re just seeing each other. It�s
not a crime!

Ron � SEEING EACH OTHER!

Beth � Hermione? Should I�.

Hermione � Oh, Ron, would you just listen to me!

Draco (tiredly) � This is so ridiculous!

Blaise � SO, WHAT OF IT! D�S NOT GOOD ENOUGH FOR HER OR SOMETHING?

Hermione, Beth and Ginny � Blaise!

Harry � Back off, Blaise!

Ron � WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON!

Harry � Mate!

Draco � Shut it, Weasley!

Blaise � Stupid and crude!

Snoop � Hey!

Ron � YOU�RE SCREWING HIM!

Hermione � Ronald, I am not SCREWING ANYBODY!

Ginny � Hermione. Ron. The boys!

Snoop � Wait, you lost it to Draco Malfoy! I was only gone a week, HG! How�d
this happen?

Beth � No, Snoop she hasn�t�

Harry � WOULD YOU JUST STOP YELLING AND LISTEN!

Hermione�s firm, �Everybody. Shut. Up!� silenced the
lot. She took a deep calming breath and felt Draco�s hand on the small of her
back giving her his silent support.

�Ronald Weasley, you will stop shouting this instant. You�re scaring your
nephews! Ginny, go check on them please. Blaise, you will act your age and stop
egging Ron on right now. Beth, would you please help Draco get everyone a
drink? And, Snoop, if you just give me a minute, I will explain everything.�

Everyone, but Ron, mutely went about their assigned task or took a seat. Beth
squeezed Hermione�s hand as she passed her and took the still floating glasses.
Draco rubbed her back a little before he moved away to the counter to pour the
drinks.

Hermione moved over to stand near Ron, �Okay, look. This wasn�t how this was
supposed to happen. But, Draco and Blaise were INVITED here by me. And, Harry and
Ginny were kind enough to give them a chance. Beth is here also at my
invitation. You and Snoop��

�YOU INVITED THEM HERE!� he exploded again.

Her voice was a hiss, �You. Will. Let. Me. Finish!�

He opened his mouth to retort, but the look in her eyes kept him quiet. He
nodded once stiffly.

�Now, you and Snoop know you are always welcome here. And, you know I love you
both. I am sorry that this was how you got to end your honeymoon and that this
is how you had to find out. But, and hear me clearly on this, Ronald, but, if
you EVER act like this again, in my home again, in front of my guests, it will
be a cold day in hell before I forgive you.�

He believed her, but wasn�t even remotely ready to accept the things he had
seen or heard. So, he swallowed his initial reaction and nodded.

Then with a much more quiet tone, but a full on sneer, �So, would you care to
explain what the two of them are doing here at your invitation?�

�Maybe you and I should go into my room to talk,� she answered and swept her hand
in that direction.

He nodded once and stomped across the room. Snoop stood and looked unsure of
what to do; stay with the others or follow her new husband. Hermione went over
to her former roommate.

When she stood in front of her she said softly, �I�m really sorry about all of
this. I know it�s not the right time, at least not now, but I do want hear all
about your honeymoon. And, I�m glad you�re home. I missed you.�

�Missed you, too, HG,� Snoop hugged her back. Then she laughed a little, �But,
Lucy, you got some �splainin to do!�

Hermione laughed a bit at their shared I Love Lucy joke, �Don�t I know
it? Beth can fill you in on some of it. And, Ginny and Harry I�m sure have
their version. Keep things under control out here for me, okay?�

�Will do. But, um�� Snoop paused as if she wasn�t
quite sure how to say what she was thinking. Then she sighed, �Don�t be too
hard on him. He�s shocked, hurt, and confused, but he loves you. And, you love
him. Remember that.�

�I know.�

Hermione glanced quickly at the others and turned to walk to her bedroom. Draco
stopped her with a hand on her hip. She looked up at him and he leaned down to
give her short kiss on her cheek.

�Chin up.�

She smiled sadly at him and squeezed his hand before she turned away and left.

It was only twelve steps, but the walk to her bedroom door seemed to stretch
like it was a mile. She felt like she was walking the plank to her doom. And,
she hated that she didn�t know what to say to a man who had been through so
much with her. A man that she loved like a brother;
respected, trusted. She knew his strengths and his faults. And, one of
his greatest of both was his sense of loyalty. He was a good guy through and
through. He was a forever Gryffindor and had a sense of righteousness second to
none. After The Fall he had made it his life�s work to punish those who had
fought for the wrong side. His work and dedication with the Magical Law
Enforcement Force had propelled him from the bottom rung to Captain of his own
squad in only three years.

She also knew he had an extremely strong prideful streak that ran through that
tall body of his. It often got him in trouble and caused him more pain than
necessary. He rarely backed down when he believed he was right, regardless of
any apparent evidence to the contrary. He just kept digging in until he either
proved to others he was correct in his gut feelings or embarrassed himself
fully. And, she feared this would be the case again.

The look she received when she stepped around the doorframe froze her in her
tracks. Disgust, pain, betrayal, disbelief, and simple anger all mingled on his
mottled red face.

Then his words reached across the room to slap her in the face, �How could
you!�

Hermione straightened her spine and stepped in to close the door. With her eyes
on his she cast a silencing charm on the room and moved forward to try and make
him understand.

��

In the other room, the adults each had a drink and tried to force themselves to
relax. The women had gathered around the counter and each looked into their
drinks as they tried to figure out all that had transpired. The three men had
fallen into chairs and the sofa and nursed their drinks in silence.

Finally breaching the uncomfortable stillness, Harry threw back his drink and
turned his head to stare at Draco. When his stare was returned without rancor,
but with curiosity, he took a moment to think about all he knew about the
boy-turned-man who sat across from him.

Blaise tossed back his drink and reached out to pour himself another as he
muttered, �Weasley�s still a stupid, arrogant ass!�

�B,� Draco admonished with a heavy sigh. �Leave it, okay?�

Blaise harrumphed, crossed his arms over his wide chest, glared at Harry as if
everything was his fault, and then fell back into silence.

Each of the women watched the male interaction and then looked at each other.
Ginny sat forward and said to Snoop, �Well. Okay. So, that didn�t go too well,
huh?�

Snoop let out a nervous laugh of agreement and nodded, �I can�t believe this.
We thought we�d surprise Hermione and thank her for taking care of the
apartment and then pop over to see you guys.� Her eyes took on a slightly
dreamy, wistful look as she continued, �Then we were going to celebrate our
first night together in our new place.�

Beth reached out to put her hand on top of her friend�s, �Could still happen.�

�Yeah, right. He�s sure as hell not going to be in the mood now,� she laughed a
little. Then she sobered and looked from one to the other, �Either one of you
want to start filling me in?�

Ginny started with a small thoughtful laugh, �Honestly, I�m not sure. One
minute she hated both of them, then she�s dating
Blaise and now Mal�Draco.�

Beth said more to herself than them, �Well, she only really asked Blaise over
to get her mind off Draco.�

�But, why?� Snoop asked the two women. �Why was she
thinking about him at all? I thought she hated him. Well, until last week at
least.�

Ginny replied thoughtfully, �You know what? I don�t think she even understands
it. But, if you look at him objectively, which is hard for me believe me, he�s
a smart, good-looking, can be funny, seemingly nice single guy. At least he
looks that way now. And, they do have a lot in common�and a history.�

Snoop took a sip of her wine, �You think it�s one of those hate love things? You
know like their hate covered their actual attraction or something.�

Beth shook her head and finished her glass. Then with a shrug she poured
another, �No. I think they really did hate, or at least really dislike each
other. From what she�d said about him before all this, and from some of the
things Blaise has told me they were like oil and water in almost everything.�

�Well, actually they weren�t when you think about it,� Ginny said softly as she
took a quick, thoughtful glance at the brooding man across the room. �I mean
they were always at odds, but they were both also always a lot alike, too.
Driven, strong in their convictions, goal-oriented, loyal, and obsessed with
being right and being the best. It�s just their upbringings, friends, and goals
were polar opposites.�

Snoop nodded, �Okay, maybe now that they aren�t on opposite sides, they have
nothing to fight about anymore and that�s the attraction?�

�No, I don�t think that�s it either,� Beth said. Then she looked at Ginny, �I
don�t know everything he put you guys through, although I know a bit. But, I
think it�s simple chemistry, you know. They�ve both
grown up and changed. They aren�t the same people anymore. And, their new
selves just like each other. Like their drawn to each other or something.�

Ginny nodded slowly, �I guess that makes the most sense. And, maybe their long
history made the falling for each other part easier in a way.�

When both women looked at her in question she continued, �Well, most of us have
to take time to get to know someone when we start dating. I mean we don�t know
anything about them and it�s new and kind of exciting, but it�s also weird and
awkward. Maybe since they already know each other pretty well, each other�s
faults, strengths, histories, and stuff, maybe it was easier to just, I don�t
know, just fall, you know?�

Snoop lifted her glass in a toast and grinned, �Well, go Dr. Potter. I think we
have a winning theory.�

Each toasted the other and laughed as Beth and Ginny went back to filling Snoop
in on the events of the week. Their relaxed conversation and tinkling laughter
worked its way across the room and helped relax the men. As it was the first
time Harry had ever conversed with either of the men opposite him in a
conversational manner, their conversation was a bit different though.

As if he had come to a decision, Harry leaned back and closed his eyes, �You
better prove worth all this, Malfoy.�

Draco let out a self-deprecating laugh, �We shall see, huh, Potter?�

�Why�s it always D who has to prove himself, eh Potter?� Blaise asked
petulantly, more tired then angry. �I mean the past is the past, we can�t
change it, and he paid his dues, in full. Why can�t we just let it go? Mione
did.�

Harry quirked a brow and opened his eyes at Blaise�s use of Hermione�s nickname,
but refrained from commenting. He looked thoughtfully from one to the other,
�I�m willing to make peace and put it behind us, if you are. For
her. She�s my best friend and I trust her. If she�s willing to put the
past aside, I can.�

Draco looked at Harry searchingly and then sat forward on his chair. He pushed
his hand through his hair and sighed, �Agreed.�

Then he swirled his drink and said softly, �I don�t even know how this all
happened. I mean if you had told me two weeks ago that I would be falling for
her, and going through all this, I would�ve�I don�t know, but I sure as hell
wouldn�t have believed you.�

Harry turned his head to look at Draco, �So, what changed all of a sudden?�

�No idea, really,� he laughed a little. �I saw her in the club and everything
else just kind of fell away, I guess. I didn�t think about the past or
anything. I just saw her and��

He stopped, clearly uncomfortable with all he had said in front of Harry. He
and Blaise had spoken of it, but sharing his thoughts with Potter was a very
different thing.

�Um, it just happened,� he finished.

Blaise looked to Harry, �So, tell me Pot�Harry, why are you willingly going
along with this? Really.�

�I love her,� Harry said simply with a shrug. �Plus, I know more about
you two than she does. I know what really happened back then. I know when
Malfoy changed and why. So, if Mione, even without knowing all of that, can
trust him, I sure as hell can.�

�Thanks, I think,� Draco laughed into his glass.

Harry smiled over at Draco and the two came to silent agreement.

A shadow passed over Draco�s face, �I never did thank you.�

�No need,� Harry answered dismissively.

�Well, thank you anyway,� Draco continued staring into his glass. �I don�t know
how I would have gotten out things if Saint Potter hadn�t vouched for me.�

Because the nickname was said without rancor, Harry let it pass and raised his
glass in Draco�s direction, �Well, I guess you�re welcome then.�

�You think she�s okay in there?� Blaise asked as he looked towards Hermione�s
bedroom.

�She can handle herself,� Harry answered. �And, he would never hurt her.�

�Maybe not physically,� Draco sighed.

All three lapsed back into silence, each lost in this own thoughts. Then,
Blaise looked over to the women and caught them giggling with one another.

�Okay, ladies, what�s so funny over there?�

��

�Seriously, Mione. How could you!� Ron spat at her as she walked toward
him.

�How could I what, Ron? Take a chance? Like a man? Grow the hell up and let the
past go!�

�You know what I mean!� he said into her face.

Hermione�s bravado crumbled when faced with his anger and she sat heavily on
the bed to try and calm down.

�Look, Ron, I don�t know where this is all going. Or, why it�s happening. But,
it is. And, I like it so far. I want to see it through.�

�But, it�s Malfoy!� he cried as he crouched in front
of her. �Wake up! He�s DRACO MALFOY!�

She winced at his shout in her face, �I know his name, Ronald! And, I know as
well as you do what he was like. But, he�s not like that now. And, you need
to��

�Need to what!� he interrupted and stood to pace in front of her. �Forgive and
forget?�

�Well, no, but��

�Slugs.�

�I know, but��

�Your teeth.�

�Listen��

�Letting Death Eaters into Hogwarts!�

�Ron, he��

�Tried to kill Dumbledore! Sided with Voldemort!�

�Okay, I was there you know!�

�But, you seem to have forgotten it all! And, what?
Now, you expect us to all just let it go and give that sleazy, ignorant,
prejudice ass a break? Why? When did he give us one? When did he EVER give you
one! And, he fought for and with Moldy Voldy! Or, did
you forget that little detail in your lust to get laid!�

She shot to her feet and balled her hands into fists to keep from hitting him.
�Because you are angry, hurt, and confused, I am going to TRY and forget you
said that, you pig-headed bastard!�

�What the hell, Mione! Why am I in the wrong here? We�re talking about Malfoy!�

�Again, I know who we�re talking about! But, dammit,
Ron, it�s over. And, you know, as well as I do, that he suffered for his loyalties.
And, his switch of them.�

�If he ever really switched,� Ron spat. �We still don�t have proof that
he changed sides. We just have his word on all that the information he
supposedly gave us. He was saving his own ass!�

�We have Harry�s word, too, don�t forget,� she reminded him acidly. �Or, don�t
you trust him either?�

Ron stopped and stared at her as if he had never seen her before, �You are
seriously standing in front of me, your best friend since forever, defending
Draco Malfoy? I�I don�t even know you.�

�Oh, Ron, stop being so melodramatic!� Hermione
stamped her foot.

Ron sighed and shook his head sadly at her, �I�m not, Hermione, really. Or, I
don�t mean to be. But, if after all we�ve been through together, after all he
put us through, after all he�s done to us, to you, you would choose him over
me, over us, then you aren�t the woman I knew.�

He turned to leave and she jumped forward to grab his arm, �Ron, wait, we need
to talk about this.�

�No,� he answered without looking at her. �No, we don�t. There�s nothing left
to say. Goodbye Hermione. Call me when you�ve come to your senses!�

With that he wrenched the door open and walked out. It took a moment before the
shock of what he had said wore off and she followed.

�Ron, wait.�

�Georgina, we�re leaving!�

Harry stood up as they reentered the room, �Ron, why don�t we��

Ron rounded on him, �Don�t! Don�t you dare! Georgina,
let�s go!�

�Honey, maybe we should�� she started from across the room. The look he gave
her made her swallow the rest of what she might have said. With a sorrowful
glance at Hermione she silently moved across the room to join him.

Before they apparated away, she turned to her former roommate, �I�m sorry, HG.
I�ll call you tomorrow.�

The last thing they heard was his loud, �Harumph,� as
they popped away.

�My brother, the ass,� Ginny mumbled.

Blaise grinned widely at her, but refrained from commenting when Draco caught
his eye before he could.

Hermione still stood in the hallway leading from her bedroom. It wasn�t until Draco
stood and stepped toward her that she snapped out of her shocked trance.

She held up her hand and shook her head, �No. Just give me a minute, okay?�

When he stopped, she tried to smile at him, but failed miserably. Then, she
took a breath to stem the flow of tears, �I�ll be back in a second. You guys
just relax, okay?�

�Mione?� Ginny said softly. �Want me to��

�No, I�m just going to�I�ll be right back.�

The room again filled with silence. This time though it was charged with more
pity than anger.

�I think we should go B,� Draco sighed.

�I think maybe, you�� Beth started.

Ginny surprised them when she said, �You really don�t know her all that well do
you?�

Blaise jumped in to defend his friend, �What do you mean by that?�

�She means,� Harry said calmly from where he lounged in his chair once again,
�that you two still have some things to learn about one another. The two
biggest mistakes you can make right now are to either go in there after her or
leave right now.�

Draco tried to relax faced with Harry�s apparent calm and sat back down. And,
since he was torn between doing both of those things he took a deep breath and
looked at the man he had considered until an hour ago to be his greatest enemy.

�Okay, Potter, what would you suggest?� his tone was bitter, but laced with
such defeat that no one took offense.

Beth, who understood her friend pretty well decided to join in the conversation
as she brought the bottle of wine with her to the other side of the room.

�I think she just needs a minute like she said; she needs to calm down, Draco.
And, she needs to see that you aren�t going to run out, too.�

Blaise reached out and pulled Beth and the bottle of wine toward him, �Okay, so
what do we all do while we wait?�

Everyone looked around at each other with no idea what to say. Then to the
shock of many people in the room Ginny grabbed Harry�s firewhiskey,
threw it back and looked at Blaise and then Draco.

�Well, this all started because we�re supposed to get to know you two, so start
talking. Blaise, tell us about yourself.�

In her room Hermione heard the whole conversation and smiled through her tears
that her friends knew her so well. And, she sent a thankful thought out to
Ginny for continuing to try, for her. She wiped away the last traces of tears
and moved to the mirror to fix her face. Then she straightened her shoulders
and looked down at the picture of Harry, Ron and her from one summer at The
Burrow.

�We�ll get through this somehow, Ron,� she whispered to his smiling, waving
visage.

Then, she looked back up at her own image in the mirror, forced a smile and
said to herself, �But, for tonight, I have guests.�

��
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Love and Forgiveness