Chapter 43
Hermione Granger stepped through the front door of her parents' house, a sense of relief washing over her. The school year was finally over, and she was free from the suffocating grip of Draco and Astoria.
She dropped her bags in the hallway and took a deep breath. Her parents were away on holiday, leaving her two blissful days alone. She spent her time reading, taking long baths, and enjoying the peace she had missed.
On the second morning, an owl delivered a letter from Draco. She sighed and opened it.
**Dear Hermione,**
**I hope you’re enjoying your break. I’d like to invite you to our family’s chateau in France for the upcoming week. It’s perfect for relaxation, and you’ll love our library.**
**Yours, Draco**
Hermione was tempted to refuse but the mention of the library caught her attention. “Why not?” she muttered, feeling the pull of curiosity. She accepted the invitation and, the next morning, took a portkey to the Malfoy chateau.
Draco greeted her with an unusually gentle demeanor. “Welcome, Hermione. I’m glad you came.”
“Thank you for inviting me, Draco. The chateau is beautiful,” she replied, forcing a smile.
He led her inside. “And I wasn’t exaggerating about the library. Would you like to see it?”
Her eyes lit up. “I’d love to.”
Draco opened ornate doors to reveal a magnificent library. Hermione felt a thrill of excitement. “It’s incredible,” she breathed.
Draco smiled. “I thought you’d like it. Spend as much time here as you wish.”
“Thank you, Draco. This means a lot to me,” she said, feeling a flicker of warmth toward him.
He nodded. “Enjoy, Hermione. Make yourself at home.”