Chapter 6
A few days later, Draco found himself seated at a table in a bustling wizarding pub, the warm, inviting atmosphere filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses. He had invited some of his closest friends for drinks, a welcome distraction from the turmoil of his secret life.
The pub was a familiar haunt, a place where they had shared countless memories during their Hogwarts days. Tonight, it was alive with energy, the air thick with the scent of hearty food and the sound of lively conversations.
“Draco! Over here!” Theodore Nott called out, waving him over as he spotted Draco entering the pub. Theo was already seated with a pint in hand, his dark hair tousled as he laughed with the others.
Pansy Parkinson, now a renowned fashion designer, was leaning back in her chair, exuding confidence in her chic outfit. Beside her, Blaise Zabini, a successful entrepreneur in the wine business, raised his glass in greeting, a mischievous glint in his eye.
“Look who finally decided to show up,” Blaise teased, smirking as Draco approached. “What took you so long? Were you busy with work or something?”
“Something like that,” Draco replied, forcing a smile as he settled into his seat. He couldn’t shake the feeling of tension lurking beneath the surface. He couldn’t reveal his secret affair with Hermione, not even to his closest friends.
“Cheers to the man of the hour!” Pansy exclaimed, lifting her glass. “To Draco, who manages to juggle work, family, and charity like a pro.”
“Cheers!” they all echoed, raising their glasses and clinking them together.
As the night wore on, they shared stories and laughter, reminiscing about old times. Draco felt a sense of camaraderie wash over him, but the weight of his secret hung heavily on his shoulders. He had to navigate the conversation carefully, avoiding any slip that could reveal his feelings for Hermione.
“So, Draco,” Blaise began, leaning back in his chair with an inquisitive look. “How’s Astoria? I haven't seen her in a while.”
Draco forced himself to maintain a relaxed demeanor. “She’s great, busy with being Lady of the Manor and charity work, as usual. And Scorpius is growing up fast. He’s a handful.”
“Kids can be a lot of work,” Theodore chimed in, a knowing smile on his face. “I see it with my patients’ families all the time.”
“Yeah, but he’s got that Malfoy charm,” Pansy added with a playful grin. “I can only imagine the mischief he gets into.”
“More than I’d like to admit,” Draco replied, trying to keep his tone light. Inside, he was grappling with the dissonance between the life he portrayed and the secret he kept.
As they continued to drink and chat, the conversation flowed effortlessly, filled with banter and laughter. But in the back of Draco’s mind, the image of Hermione lingered, a constant reminder of the forbidden connection they shared.
“Speaking of family, when are you going to add another little Malfoy to the mix?” Pansy teased, raising an eyebrow at him. “I’m sure Scorpius would love a sibling.”
Draco chuckled, his heart racing at the thought. “No plans for that just yet. One is enough to keep me busy.”
Blaise shrugged, a smirk on his face. “You know, Draco, sometimes I think you need to embrace a little chaos in your life. Get out of your comfort zone.”
Draco nodded, forcing a laugh. “Maybe. But some chaos is best left at a distance.”
The night continued with more stories and laughter, but deep down, Draco felt a longing for something more. Something he was currently pursuing in secret with Hermione. The thought made him feel exhilarated and guilty all at once.
As the evening drew to a close and they prepared to leave, Draco couldn’t help but feel grateful for the companionship of his friends. They were a lifeline to a world that felt increasingly complicated, but he knew he couldn’t share the most important part of his life with them—not yet, at least.
“Let’s do this again soon,” Theodore said as they stepped out into the cool night air.
“Definitely,” Draco agreed, forcing a smile as they exchanged goodbyes.
As he made his way home, thoughts of Hermione swirled in his mind. The thrill of their secret affair, the danger of being caught, and the connection they shared—it was all consuming. And though he knew he was walking a tightrope, he couldn’t shake the feeling that this was just the beginning.
The days blurred together for Hermione as she immersed herself in her charity work. With each passing hour, she found herself drowning in paperwork, meetings, and planning events to raise awareness for the rights of house-elves. Her passion fueled her, but there was an underlying sadness that lingered—an ache for the connection she had with Draco that she could not fully embrace.
It was a typical Thursday when she arrived at her office at the Ministry, the morning sun streaming through the windows, filling the room with warmth. As she set her bag down and began sorting through her emails, she noticed something peculiar on her desk.
A small bouquet of vibrant flowers stood in a delicate vase, the colors bright against the neutral tones of her office. A warm smile spread across her face as she recognized the arrangement—fresh lilies and roses, a mix of her favorites. Next to the flowers was a steaming cup of coffee, the rich aroma wafting toward her, a comforting scent that reminded her of early mornings spent with Draco.
Her heart raced as she picked up the card nestled among the petals. She opened it, her breath catching at the simple words handwritten in Draco’s familiar script:
Thinking of you. – D
The warmth of his gesture wrapped around her like a soft blanket, lifting her spirits as she took a moment to appreciate the beauty of the flowers. It was a small act, but it spoke volumes—his way of reaching out, reminding her that she was not alone in this secret they shared.
She placed the card back down, her heart fluttering with happiness. No matter how complicated their situation was, moments like these made her feel cherished and alive. She took a sip of the coffee, feeling the warmth spread through her, both from the drink and from the thought of Draco.
As the day unfolded, Hermione found herself distracted by the bouquet. Every time she glanced at the flowers, a smile tugged at her lips, her thoughts drifting to their last meeting—the stolen kisses and whispered confessions. The world around her faded as she allowed herself to indulge in the memory of their passionate encounter, the way he made her feel wanted and desired.
Despite the chaos of her work, her mind kept wandering back to Draco. How could something so wrong feel so right? The guilt nagged at her, reminding her of Astoria and Scorpius, but the happiness his gesture brought her was undeniable.
Throughout the day, her colleagues popped in and out of her office, but she kept the flowers close, their presence a secret she guarded fiercely. She couldn’t share this part of her life with anyone; it was hers and Draco’s alone, a fragile thread of connection that kept them tied together amid the complexities of their lives.
As evening approached and the sun dipped below the horizon, Hermione packed up her things, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. She would continue her work, advocate for change, but she would also keep this secret, this beautiful and dangerous connection with Draco alive in her heart.
Walking out of the Ministry, she couldn’t shake the smile from her face. She took one last look at the flowers before heading home, feeling grateful for the unexpected joy they brought her. For now, she would hold onto that happiness, a flickering flame in the midst of uncertainty.
Later that night, as she settled into her cozy flat, she placed the flowers in a vase on her dining table, their colors brightening the room. As she sipped her own cup of coffee, she reflected on the complexities of her life—her charity work, her relationships, and the undeniable attraction she felt for Draco.
In that moment, she allowed herself to embrace the happiness his small gesture had ignited, if only for a little while. And as she drifted off to sleep, she couldn’t help but wonder what the next day would bring, hoping for more surprises that would keep their secret affair alive.
The next few days passed in a whirlwind of activity for Hermione. She buried herself in her charity work, but the underlying tension of her secret affair with Draco loomed ever larger in her mind. Just when she thought she could manage her feelings, an unexpected invitation landed on her desk—a beautifully embossed envelope, adorned with the Malfoy family crest.
Opening it with curiosity, Hermione read the elegant script inside:
Dear Hermione,
We would be honored to have you join us for a gala evening at Malfoy Manor. It will be a night of celebration and charity, and we hope you can attend.
Warm regards,
Astoria Malfoy
Hermione’s heart raced as she read the invitation again. A gala at the Malfoy Manor? The very thought sent a thrill through her, but alongside it came a wave of guilt. She remembered Astoria’s kindness and how welcoming she had been, but the temptation to see Draco again was too strong to ignore.
With a conflicted mind, she sat back in her chair, weighing her options. She knew attending would be risky—each glance, each word exchanged with Draco would carry the weight of their secret. But the prospect of seeing him again, of feeling the connection they shared, tugged at her heart.
“I’ll go,” she decided quietly, a rush of adrenaline coursing through her. The excitement outweighed the guilt, at least for now.
Later that day, Ginny popped into Hermione's office, a cheerful smile lighting up her face. “Hey, Hermione! Guess what?”
Hermione looked up from her desk, curious. “What’s going on?”
“I just got an invitation to the Malfoy gala! Harry and I are going, and I thought you might be interested too,” Ginny said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
Hermione's heart sank for a moment, but she quickly masked her emotions. “Oh, I received one too. I was just thinking about it.”
Ginny raised an eyebrow, sensing the hesitation in Hermione's voice. “You’re actually considering going? I know Astoria has a reputation, but she seems nice enough.”
Hermione nodded slowly. “Yeah, I think it could be fun… and a good opportunity to network for my charity work.”
“Right! Plus, you’ll get to see Draco,” Ginny said, her teasing tone unmistakable.
Hermione’s heart skipped a beat at the mention of Draco. “It’s not just about him, Ginny,” she replied, trying to keep her voice steady. “But I guess it would be nice to catch up with everyone.”
“Of course! Just remember to keep it friendly,” Ginny winked, unaware of the deeper emotions swirling beneath Hermione's surface.
“I will,” Hermione promised, though the words felt hollow.
As they continued to chat about the gala and their plans for the weekend, Hermione’s mind drifted back to her invitation. The thrill of attending the Malfoy Gala was undeniable, and the prospect of seeing Draco made her heart race.
After Ginny left, Hermione sat in her office, contemplating the evening ahead. She would have to navigate the complex dynamics of the event—interacting with Astoria, maintaining her composure around Draco, and keeping their secret safe. But the thrill of the gala was too enticing to resist.
As she left the Ministry that evening, she felt a mix of excitement and anxiety brewing within her. The Malfoy Gala promised to be a night filled with glamour, but for Hermione, it would be a test of her resolve. Would she be able to keep her feelings for Draco at bay, or would the night lead her further down the path of temptation?
With the gala looming on the horizon, she couldn’t help but feel that this night would change everything.
The night of the Malfoy Gala arrived, and Hermione stood before her mirror, admiring her reflection. She wore a stunning red dress that hugged her curves perfectly, the color radiant against her skin. The dress had a deep V-neckline and flowed elegantly to the floor, giving her an air of confidence and sophistication. As she styled her hair into soft waves, she couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness.
Stepping out of her flat, she took a deep breath and headed toward Malfoy Manor. The grand estate loomed ahead, beautifully illuminated by shimmering lights that twinkled like stars. As she approached the entrance, she felt the weight of the night pressing down on her—a mixture of anticipation and the secret she carried in her heart.
Inside, the atmosphere was electric. The grand hall was adorned with luxurious decorations, and a string quartet played softly in the background. Guests mingled, laughter and conversation filling the air. Hermione scanned the crowd, spotting Ginny and Harry across the room.
“Harry! Ginny!” Hermione called, making her way toward them.
Ginny's eyes lit up when she saw her. “Wow, Hermione! You look absolutely stunning!”
“Thanks! So do you!” Hermione replied, admiring Ginny’s elegant blue gown.
Harry beamed, adjusting his tie as he joined them. “You both look amazing. Ready for a night of mingling with the elite?”
Hermione chuckled, trying to shake off her nerves. “I suppose so. Just remember, I’m here for the charity work.”
“Of course,” Ginny teased, nudging her playfully. “And for the chance to see Draco, right?”
Hermione felt her cheeks flush at the mention of his name. “Let’s focus on the gala, shall we?”
Just then, a hush fell over the crowd as the Malfoys stepped onto the small stage set up for the evening’s events. Draco stood tall beside Astoria, who looked radiant in a silver gown that sparkled like the stars. Draco’s presence was magnetic, and even from a distance, Hermione felt the pull of his gaze.
“Welcome, esteemed guests, to the Malfoy Gala,” Draco began, his voice confident and smooth. “Tonight, we celebrate not only our successes but also the important causes we hold dear. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each of you for your support.”
Astoria took a step forward, her smile warm and inviting. “We’re thrilled to have you all here. Your generosity tonight will help us make a difference in the lives of those in need, particularly for house-elves and other marginalized communities.”
As applause echoed through the hall, Hermione felt a swell of pride for the cause she was so passionate about. But as Draco continued to speak, she found herself captivated not only by his words but by the way he commanded the room, his charm unmistakable.
Once the speeches concluded, the couple began to make their way through the crowd, greeting guests and welcoming them personally. Hermione's heart raced as she saw them approach, and she quickly exchanged glances with Ginny and Harry, who were just as curious.
“Look who it is!” Ginny whispered, a grin spreading across her face.
Draco and Astoria reached them, and Draco’s eyes locked onto Hermione's, sending a thrill through her.
“Granger!” he greeted, his tone warm and genuine. “You look radiant tonight.”
“Thank you, Draco,” Hermione replied, her voice steady despite the fluttering in her stomach. “You and Astoria have outdone yourselves with this event.”
Astoria smiled graciously. “It’s so wonderful to see you here, Hermione. I hope you’re enjoying the gala.”
“I am, thank you,” Hermione said, feeling a sense of ease in Astoria’s presence. The other woman’s kindness reassured her, even as she felt the weight of her secret affair with Draco.
Harry chimed in, “It’s a fantastic evening. Thanks for inviting us.”
“Of course!” Astoria replied, her eyes sparkling. “We wanted to surround ourselves with friends and supporters tonight.”
Hermione felt the tension between her and Draco simmering just beneath the surface. Every shared glance sent a jolt of electricity through her, igniting memories of their stolen moments together. She had to remain composed, especially with Astoria standing right there.
As the gala continued, the atmosphere buzzed with energy, and soon Draco's friends began to arrive, each one adding their own unique flair to the event. Pansy Parkinson, dressed in an eye-catching emerald green gown, made a grand entrance, her confidence radiating as she scanned the room. Following closely were Theodore Nott, looking sharp in tailored robes, and Blaise Zabini, who was effortlessly charming as always.
“Look who’s here!” Ginny exclaimed, nudging Hermione as she spotted the trio.
“Just what we need—more troublemakers,” Harry joked, but there was a hint of warmth in his tone as they approached.
Pansy was the first to reach them, her gaze lingering on Hermione. “Well, well, if it isn’t the brightest witch of our age! You look stunning, Granger.”
“Thanks, Pansy,” Hermione replied, managing a polite smile. “You look lovely too.”
Theo nodded in greeting. “Hermione. Harry. Ginny. It’s good to see you all.”
“Are you enjoying the gala?” Blaise asked, his voice smooth and engaging.
“Very much,” Ginny replied. “Astoria and Draco have done an excellent job.”
“Of course they have,” Pansy said with a smirk. “They’ve got to show off their wealth somehow.”
The light banter continued, and the conversation flowed effortlessly among the group. It was a strange feeling for Hermione, being so civil with Draco’s friends, given their past and the rivalries that had existed during their time at Hogwarts. Yet here they were, laughing and catching up as if years of animosity had never existed.
Blaise leaned in, curiosity evident in his eyes. “So, what’s the latest in the world of charity, Hermione? I hear you’re doing great things.”
She felt a surge of pride. “We’re working on improving the rights of house-elves, raising funds to provide better living conditions and freedom of choice.”
“That sounds admirable,” Theo said sincerely. “It’s good to see someone using their platform for positive change.”
As the night wore on, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and friendly chatter, but Hermione couldn’t shake the tension that lingered between her and Draco. She stole glances across the room, where he was engaging with a group of guests, his charm captivating everyone around him.
Eventually, as the clock struck nine, Draco caught her eye, a mischievous glint in his gaze. He excused himself from the group and made his way toward Hermione, a subtle smile playing on his lips.
“Enjoying the evening?” he asked, his voice low, as he stepped closer.
“It’s been lovely,” she replied, her heart racing at the proximity.
“I need a moment away from all this… pomp,” he said, glancing around the room before lowering his voice. “Would you like to join me for a breath of fresh air?”
Hermione felt her breath hitch, but the excitement of his invitation drowned out any reservations. “Sure.”
He led her through the sprawling manor, past the bustling guests, until they reached a far room at the end of a long corridor. The atmosphere shifted as they stepped inside—a quiet sanctuary, dimly lit and far from the gala’s noise.
Draco closed the door behind them, and a sense of anticipation filled the air. “I thought we could escape for a moment,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
“Right here?” Hermione questioned, her heart racing with a mixture of excitement and apprehension.
“Why not? It’s just us,” he replied, stepping closer.
The room was filled with the soft glow of candlelight, casting shadows on the walls, and Hermione felt the familiar pull toward him. She took a deep breath, the thrill of being alone with him sending shivers down her spine.
“I’ve missed this,” he confessed, his eyes locking onto hers. “Being close to you.”
Her heart pounded as she took a step forward, closing the distance between them. “So have I.”
The air was thick with unspoken words and desires as Draco reached out, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “No one can see us here.”
With those words, the weight of their secret affair hung heavily between them. In that moment, surrounded by the opulence of Malfoy Manor and cloaked in secrecy, they both knew they were crossing a line, yet they couldn’t resist the magnetic pull that drew them together.
As if on cue, Draco leaned in, capturing her lips with his in a passionate kiss that ignited the flames of desire they had both been trying to suppress. The world outside faded away, and in that moment, it was just them—two souls intertwined in a dangerous dance of affection and longing.
Draco's hands roam Hermione's body possessively as he kisses her deeply, his tongue exploring her mouth with fervor. He presses Hermione against the wall, his hardness evident against her thigh. Breaking the kiss, he trails his lips along her jawline, nipping gently at her earlobe.
"I want you, Hermione," he murmurs huskily. "Right here, right now."
His hands slide down to her hips, gripping them tightly as he grinds against her. The friction sends waves of pleasure coursing through Hermione, and she arch into him, craving more.
"Draco, we can't... not here," Hermione whisper urgently, even as her body betrays her words, pressing closer to his.
He chuckles darkly, his breath hot against her skin.
"No one will find us." Draco's fingers find the zipper of her dress, slowly pulling it down as he kisses a trail along her neck. The fabric falls away, pooling at Hermione's feet, leaving her in nothing but her lacy underwear.