Chapter 2
“Where have you been?” Hermione was just walking out of the Three Broomsticks an hour later when she bumped into Ron, Luna, Ginny and Harry.
“I’ve been here. Where have you been?” Hermione fired back lightly.
“Wait, what do you mean? You went to get drinks and never came back.” Ginny accused lightly.
“No but I didn’t leave. I… was there the whole time.” Hermione muttered, glancing over her shoulder. This action was a mistake though because it made the collar of her shirt move to show a love bite on her collarbone.
“Who was it?” Luna asked, curious yet airy as always. Hermione opened her mouth as if to deny it and then huffed. There was no point.
“Rosmerta.” Hermione offered with a grumble.
“What?! No way she’s gay.” Ron blurted out with a scowl.
“Of course she is. You’ve seen how many blokes flirt with her over the years and not once has she done more than flirt back.” Hermione rolled her eyes at him.
“But she flirts back! That means she’s not gay.” Ron refuted seriously.
“But I’ve flirted with you all morning and I’m not interested in you.” Luna chimed then looking at Ron who looked suddenly flabbergasted. Ginny had to cough to cover a laugh and Harry sucked on his lips and looked away. Luna simply stepped over and linked her arm with Hermione.
“You… but I bought you a drink.” Ron frowned trying to make sense of it all.
“You bought her a butterbeer that she didn’t drink because Luna doesn’t like butterbeer.” Ginny pointed out.
“Thought you figured that out when you drank her drink for her.” Harry offered easily and Hermione lifted her freehand and facepalmed.
“Oh Ron.” Hermione sighed. Ron blushed.
“I just didn’t think she was thirsty.” Ron mumbled clearly embarrassed and Hermione snickered.
“Well I’m in need of restocking chocolate. We just came from Quidditch Supplies. Honey dukes?” Ginny suggested seriously and Harry and Hermione both nodded.
“Oh yes please. I need some more sugar quills as well.” Luna hummed leaning into Hermione's arm a little before the five of them headed off. Ron followed along looking highly confused.
“But wait… isn’t Rosmerta old?” Ron frowned.
“She’s in her early thirties. Hardly old.” Hermione reasoned as they made their way along.
“But you’re barely 18.” Ron recalled and Hermione sighed.
“I’m 19.” Hermione huffed.
“How are you 19 but we’ve only just turned 18?” Ron was very confused and even Harry looked curious at that.
“Hermione's always been older. Her birthday fell after the first of September, the 19th, so she could attend Hogwarts the year of her 11th birthday. She had to wait or she would have been a year ahead of you both.” Luna explained that like that should have been obvious, she still had her arm linked with Hermiones.
“How is it that Luna knows all this and we don’t?” Harry felt a little bad.
“Because Luna pays attention. Besides, I knew as well. You smelly boys just suck at anything girl related. Ron can’t even figure out a girl is just humouring him.” Ginny teased lightly and Ron’s cheeks pinked.
“That’s not fair.” Ron grumbled.
“Maybe you and Luna would be a good pair.” Harry looked at Hermione and Luna with a little grin.
“Oh we would.” Luna smiled serenely and Hermione chuckled with a light grin. Ginny frowned slightly.
—
“Wait, you slept with Rosmerta? Gosh she’s a pretty good looking woman” Pansy and Daphne had found Hermione in the library on Wednesday evening.
“She is and I did. I feel a little bad for her, must be lonely that the only time gay women really go there is as students or drifters passing through. She seems happy enough though.” Hermione was leaning back in her seat.
“Maybe you can date her.” Daphne suggested seriously.
“I’m not exactly looking for a relationship, Daphne. Besides, I have plans to move to London when I finish this year.” Hermione explained easily. Since this evening when Ginny and Luna had informed the slytherin couple that Hermione had slept with Rosmerta, Daphne had been much more inclined to acknowledge Hermione.
“Ginny is going to London too, she wants to play with the Harpies.” Came that usual dreamy voice and Luna and Ginny appeared a moment later.
“You could flat-share.” Daphne suggested then.
“I’ll be moving in with Harry I think.” Ginny returned almost immediately. Hermione had been ignoring it but Ginny had been slightly off with her since they had kissed weeks before.
“What about you Lulu?” Pansy asked fondly as Luna sat beside Hermione. Ginny took the seat across from her.
“Oh Daddy and I are going to South America at the end of the year. An expedition.” Luna explains smiling fondly. “One of Daddy’s friends will be joining us.”
“What? But what about you and Hermione?” Ginny frowned.
“What about it?” Luna frowned right back.
“Aren’t you like… interested?” Ginny was confused.
“Oh certainly, but Hermione and I would never work like that.” Luna smiled then and shrugged.
“She has a point. I struggle too much with letting go of the facts and Luna likes to have faith in what she believes in too much. We’d argue all the time.” Hermione shrugged and Luna nodded.
“She’s right.” Luna smiled.
“You’re not the least bit curious what it would be like to be with the golden girl?” Ginny pressed and Luna half shrugged.
“Aside from what I’m sure would be great sex I don’t think it would be much different to spending time with her like this. Much more friendly than intimate.” Luna offered seriously.
“But…” Ginny trailed off when Pansy snorted lightly.
“Jees, Weasley, if it disappoints you that much why don’t you just date Granger?” Pansy was only teasing, she knew Ginny was with Harry.
“Don’t be stupid! I love Harry.” Ginny snapped suddenly before standing up.
“I need to go to quidditch practice.” The redhead huffed before anyone else could speak and then stomped out.
“The puffs and claws have training right now though?” Daphne seemed confused by the excuse and Pansy looked to Hermione who was looking a little wide eyed.
“Correct me if I’m wrong… but she seems jealous.” Pansy offered after a moment.
“You’re not wrong.” Luna smiled.
“Wait what? But she was just pushing Luna and Hermione.” Daphne seemed even more confused.
“Ginny claims she used to have a bit of a crush on me.” Hermione was just as confused.
“Ginny won’t admit that her crush was a bit more than just little and I think since the kiss she’s been very confused about her feelings regarding Hermione.” Luna offered her insight.
“Then she needs to stop being confused, I wouldn’t do that to Harry. Kissing her was bad enough.” Hermione scowled.
“You didn’t like kissing her?” Daphne asked curiously.
“No I did, a lot. But Harry is my best friend and he’s in love with her. So Ginny will only ever be my best friend.” Hermione sighed lightly.
“Maybe you should just go for it anyways. You obviously like her.” Daphne added then and Hermione heaved a sigh.
“Did you miss the part where I said I wouldn’t do that to my best friend?” Hermione was annoyed now.
“But what about what you want?” Pansy asked gently and Hermione stared for a moment before she shrugged.
“I don’t know what I want.” Hermione pointed out.
“Do you want to come and see the Hippogryphs with me? There should be foals this time of year.” Luna stood up then and Hermione looked at her.
“That, I do want.” Hermione smiled and stood as well using her wand to pack her things in her bag.
“We’ll pass this time. I need to get this potions revision done.” Pansy made a face and Daphne pat her hand gently.
—
“Are you alright?” It was a week a week later and Hermione was not fairing very well.
Somehow Luna had become one of her closest friends and seemed to show up exactly when Hermione needed someone around like now. The airy blonde would just flounce over and sit down and lean into the brunette as she did there at the sparsely populated Gryffindor table. It was too early for a lot of students but Hermione still had trouble sleeping even after all of this time.
“Ginny seems to be avoiding me even more now. That or she gets mad at me for no real reason and stomps off.” Hermione actually pouted.
“She’s not handling this very well.” Luna agreed easily.
“It’s not fair and I’m lonely and I miss just being able to sit and chat with her.” Hermione had an elbow on the table as she pushed the cereal around in the bowl.
“We could go see the Unicorn Hagrid rescued last night. It’s still young enough that it has some gold through its coat.” Luna suggested and at this point Hermione just rolled with the blondes flights of fancy. Besides that she would admit she enjoyed experiencing the wonder of most of these creatures through Luna. Even the less desirable beasts were given a warm light by Luna.
“Ok.” Hermione stood and Luna lingered only long enough to spread some jam on a piece of toast before she stood and linked arms with Hermione.
The pair walked in relative quiet down through the grounds, it was starting to get much colder now coming up to Halloween and Hermione was sure they’d get first snow in early November. For now though it was nice to get away with just the sweaters and not needing the heavier robes to keep warm, at least not just yet. The trees had all gone yellow and brown a few weeks before the deciduous trees losing their leaves and making the evergreens stand out even more. Though of course the forbidden forest where they were headed was vastly populated by evergreens making the deciduous trees all the more obvious.
They didn’t have fair to go into the Forest before they found the pen Hagrid had set up, it was secured by magic the half-giant was finally allowed to use again. The minister of Magic, Kingsley, had reinstated Hagrid and abolished his expulsion. He wouldn’t be able to finish the schooling obviously and he had no desire to do so but the half-giant had been among the first to visit Ollivanders when the man had finally reopened his shop in Diagon. The pen was warded to fend off any predators and prevent the unicorn from escaping while the injuries it had sustained healed. Inside the pen was a white unicorn filly with flecks of gold still through her coat and while her mane was full her tail still had the tufty foal look to it.
“Oh she’s clearly just a yearling huh.” Hermione murmured as they moved over to the fence.
“She is. Hagrid said she was caught up in some brambles and had bled quite badly. It’s a good thing she’s still small and was rather weak or he wouldn’t have been able to get near her much less get her here.” Luna explained as the filly tossed her head and whickered irately.
Hermione hummed softly in agreement and smiled gently reaching towards the little filly with her hand. The unicorn seemed to wonder about this for a moment before tossing her head, the younger ones a lot more trusting than the fully grown. With another softer whicker the filly tossed her head again before moving forward and scenting Hermione's hand before nuzzling. The witch smiled warmly and cooed gently at the creature then moved closer to accept the scratching that Hermione had to offer. Luna had watched on curiously and tilted her head.
While Luna couldn’t see herself in a relationship with Hermione she could definitely see the appeal of the other witch. A witch who had seen her fair share of atrocities and trauma through the years yet could still smile at a unicorn and laugh with friends. A witch who could be gentle and sweet despite the hard and cruel times she’d been through. Luna definitely found the witch attractive so when she had the sudden urge to finally get the kiss that had been suggested so many times recently she went with it.
Luna gently stepped up and nudged Hermione to get her attention and the brunette turned to see what was up. She didn’t have to ask though, the darkness of Luna's eyes was telltale enough let alone when the blondes gaze dropped to her lips. Hermione was rather like a moth to a flame as well because though she had no real romantic feelings for the blonde Luna was and had always been a rather stunningly attractive witch. Therefore it was extremely easy to meet the suddenly bold blonde half way and kiss her, at first gentle and testing before it deepened and Luna, going a step further but figuratively and literally, pressed herself to Hermione and Hermione against the fence.
Luna and Hermione both let hands wander as the kiss itself intensified, lips caressed and tongues tasted. Luna hadn’t actually gone that far with anyone but she found just kissing Hermione made her want more. Especially when Hermione's fingers found their way under her shirt and gently caressed the skin over her hip bone. The younger witch couldn’t stifle a soft groan at the gentle caress and when Hermione let her tongue trace the edge of Lunas teeth the blonde found herself sucking lightly on it drawing a soft groan from Hermione herself. It may well have continued on or advanced beyond this if not for the suddenly bashful throat clearing to their left.
“Er, righ’ than, should I just come ba’ later?” Hagrid looked red faced but clearly amused.
“Hello Hagrid.” Luna was completely unphased and Hermione flushed lightly and pulled her hand out from under Luna's clothes, not that she’d been doing anything but feeling the smooth skin.
“Hullo, you two. Sorry ter in’errupt jus’ thought this little lassie would like some oa’s is all.” Hagrid moved closer then giving Hermione an amused look.
“I’m sure she would.” Hermione offered shifting back from the fence a little. Luna sidled up beside her and linked arms again.
“Per’aps you two should ‘ead back up to tha castle. Affores classes start.” Hagrid suggested grinning behind his beard and Hermione narrowed her eyes.
“Laugh it up, Hagrid.” Hermione grumbled as she urged Luna back away from the half-giant and towards the castle.
“Can’ help it, ‘Mione… you’re the las’ person I expected to be hidden away snoggin’ girls.” Hagrid called after her clearly trying not to laugh.
“See you later, Hagrid!” Luna waved over her shoulder sounding just as amused and Hermione huffed though she was struggling not to grin herself.
“It was a good kiss though.” Luna spoke again about minute later when they were well out of earshot of Hagrid.
“It was but I thought we agreed we wouldn’t work. At least long term.” Hermione reminded gently.
“Oh we wouldn’t. And that’s ok. But I’ll admit I was certainly curious. You’re a fantastic kisser.” Luna smiled that dreamy smile of hers and Hermione couldn’t help but grin.
“You weren’t so bad yourself.” Hermione hummed fondly.
“I’ve never had sex.” Luna blurted out then.
“I believe I was present a couple weeks ago when Ginny was asking you all those questions. I wouldn’t push you for more, sometimes just kissing and closeness is all that’s really needed anyways.” Hermione wondered how Luna could be so unphased about so many things and especially the topic of sex.
“I think so too but you’ve been with Ron and you’ve been with women… how do you feel about Ron being your first time?” Luna asked curiously as they trekked across the grass towards the castle entrance.
“I feel like I wish I had had my gay awakening sooner. I wouldn’t say he was terrible but he was excited and didn’t last very long and frankly seemed to be in a rush to get to his own end and didn’t care about mine. I’m also not saying that women are just better because I think sexuality and even preference play a large part in the experience but they are inherently aware of what in general feels the best and tend to strive for it. I dunno, if I could go back with the knowledge I have now I’d have slept with someone else. A woman.” Hermione offered perhaps a far more convoluted answer than necessary.
“Hm. Kissing you did feel really good and your hands are soft… but I think I like men more. I’ve been writing an older wizard, a grandson of one of daddy’s good friends… he’s been wanting to take me out on a date the last few months. Do you think I should?” Hermione wasn’t even bothered by this information it just made her smile.
“Is he handsome and is he nice to you?” Hermione asked lightly and Lima nodded.
“Oh yes he’s very handsome. He’s a mazizoologist like his grandfather and like I’d like to be. He’s very gentle and sweet, and very handsome. I’ll admit I like it when he doesn’t have a shirt on.” Luna admitted as they walked into the entrance hall just as Ginny was leaving the great hall. Hermione laughed brightly at the grin on Lunas face.
“I would like to meet him one day but you should definitely sort out a date with him as soon as possible.” Hermione smiled happily.
“Where have you two been?” Ginny asked, waiting for them at the foot of the stairs.
“We were up early so went and saw the unicorn Hagrid rescued.” Luna smiled warmly.
“Lunas has been telling me about a man she’s interested in. Older gentleman.” Hermione supplied as the trio made their way upstairs.
“You’ve got a fella and you never told me? Since when?” Ginny sounded almost affronted.
“I haven’t. We’ve been writing to one another since shortly after the war. He’d been away on an expedition with his grandfather during and when he heard I’d been held captive for a time he wrote to be sure I was ok.” Luna explained easily.
“So all those letters I assumed were from your father?” Ginny frowned. Luna simply nodded.
“No wonder you wouldn’t kiss Hermione.” Ginny chuckled then.
“Oh, Rolf and I aren’t a couple. At least not yet. So he won’t even be bothered by my kissing Hermione.” Ginny frowned at Luna.
“Wait… you kissed Hermione? When?” Ginny looked from the blonde to the brunette beside her.
“Down at the unicorn pen. It was quite lovely until Hagrid came along.” Luna sighed a little wistfully and Hermione chuckled and rolled her eyes at the memory.
“Just now? You’re getting around a bit then.” Ginny fired off and Hermione frowned.
“That wasn’t very nice.” Luna pouted a little and Ginny scowled then immediately getting defensive.
“No but it’s true. Pansy, Rosmerta and now you?” Ginny looked to the blonde.
“Don’t forget you're on that list.” Hermione was getting annoyed.
“Oh piss off Hermione. I’m just saying.” Ginny snarked.
“No you’re just making it sound like I’m some kind of … of slut.” Hermione had stopped walking.
“I mean if the shoe fits.” Ginny shrugged and Hermione actually felt wounded.
“Wow… I don’t understand you at all. I mean if I thought anyone would try to make me feel bad for having a little bit of adventure I certainly wouldn’t have thought it was you.” Hermione stepped back.
“There’s having adventure and then there’s lifting your skirt to anyone who offers. Maybe it’s because you come from muggles but the rest of us aren’t so loose.” Ginny realized a little too late what she’d just done but when tears immediately filled Hermione's eyes and Luna gasped softly she understood she’d gone too far.
“Hermione I…-“
“Just… piss off Ginny.” Hermione actually turned and bolted before the redhead could say anything else. Ginny wanted to follow her but Luna stopped her.
“Leave her for a little while. The hurt is too fresh for her to hear your apology right now. It will give you time to think about how to make her realise you didn’t mean it how It sounded.” Lunas tone was actually firm which was a harsh reminder that Ginny had really messed up.
“You probably need to stop and consider the whole situation a bit more too. Why you’re behaving this way to Mione.” Luna added though this was softer.
“I don’t know what you mean.” Ginny denied immediately.
“You know exactly what I mean.” Luna folded her arms.
“I love Harry.” Ginny declared seriously. Luna just looked at her until Ginny huffed and stomped off ahead up the stairs.
—
“So how come it’s just us three today? Hermione never really said. Just something about Luna.” Harry asked Ginny almost a month later, it was the last Hogsmead weekend before the Christmas Holidays.
“Are they on together?” Ron asked curiously then.
“No. They are not.” Ginny scowled before she could sensor herself.
“Hermione is meeting Lunas fella and… and Hermione and I aren’t actually talking at the moment.” Ginny sighed softly and tangled her fingers with Harry’s when he took her hand.
“You guys had another argument?” Harry asked gently and Ginny nodded.
“I said something I shouldn’t have but she’s been super childish ever since and won’t go anywhere near me. How am I meant to apologize if she won’t talk to me?” Ginny was pouting now.
“She will get over it eventually she always does.” Ron offered after a moment.
“Wait did you say Lunas got a boyfriend?” Ron appeared to have finally caught up.
“Apparently yes. Rolf Scamander. He’s a bit older than the rest of us.” Ginny explained evenly.
“Wow… go Luna.” Harry chuckled, he couldn’t really imagine it.
“I still can’t believe she’s kissed people. I mean it’s little Luna with her head in the clouds.” Ron seemed to have forgotten than he’d tried it on with the blonde himself.
“She’s kissed Hermione even.” Ginny’s tone was a little sharper than she realized but Harry had noted it.
“What? How did that come about?” Ron wrinkled his nose, he still had feelings for Hermione and struggled with the fact she was apparently gay.
“I don’t know. Luna said they went to see the Unicorn Hagrid had rescued and when Hermione was petting it Luna just had the urge and of course Hermione wouldn’t say no.” Ginny pushed the door of the Three Broomsticks open as they made their way in over to a clear table.
“What do you mean by that?” Ron was confused by the comment.
“I mean clearly she’s willing to shag just about anyone so long as they’re not a bloke.” Ginny hadn’t noticed that Rosmerta had followed them over.
“Talking about Hermione?” Rosmerta smiled pleasantly so she was a little taken back when Ginny scowled at her.
“Case and point.” Ginny grumbled.
“Yeah, they’re having an argument at the moment. How are you?” Harry asked the innkeeper pleasantly.
“I’m alright, Harry. How’s Auror training?” Rosmerta looked away from Ginny to Harry and smiled again.
“It’s brilliant actually. I’m really enjoying it. We only have a couple months yet before we graduate.” Harry informed rather proudly.
“Well good for you boys. You’ve done well.” Rosmerta offered genuinely and Harry and Ron both grinned.
“Thanks.” Harry and Ron smiled.
“Anyways I’ll go get these drinks sorted it’s getting a little busy though would one of you mind coming to get them?” Rosmerta asked with a smile.
“Sure thing.” Harry offered and Rosmerta went back over to the bar.
Ginny scowled as the woman left and Ron started talking about Auror training all over again. Harry chatted with him happily and Ginny sat and glared at Rosmerta right up until the woman looked over and gestured that the drinks were ready. The redhead stood and mumbled that she was going to get the drinks. Harry and Ron acknowledged her as she left the table and went for the bar fishing in her pocket for some sickles on the way.
“Ginny, do you think Hermione will be in later?” Rosmerta asked as she poured a fire whisky for another patron.
“Don’t you think you’re a bit old for her?” Ginny quirked an eyebrow and Rosmerta paused.
“I’m sorry what?” Rosmerta frowned and handed the drink over before turning her full attention to Ginny.
“Don’t you think you’re a bit to old to be chasing someone her age? Wasn’t once enough?” Ginny didn’t back down a bit.
“I’m not sure what business it is of yours but I’m not chasing her, I told her that. I just have something for her and didn’t want to owl it if she’d be in today.” Rosmerta folded her arms.
“Well I don’t know. She’s too busy snogging everyone else to spend any time with me so you’ll just have to wait your turn even though I sincerely think you should keep your sexcapades to your own age bracket.” Ginny snarked back getting more irate.
“Why you-“
“Ginny Weasley! What the hell!” Hermione had just stepped in and though she’d only caught that last comment she was sure they were talking about her and even still the comment wasn’t necessary.
Ginny looked over in time to see a furious Hermione Granger striding towards her, behind the brunette by the door was Luna and a rather attractive looking wizard, no doubt Lunas beau. Before she could take much in though Hermione had rather roughly grabbed her arm and all but shoved past the bar into the back kitchen of the inn. Ros scowled at the redhead but moved back to serving other patrons, the kitchen was magically set to cook and dish up food.
“What the hell is the matter with you?” Hermione asked only to immediately cut Ginny off when she tried to speak.
“No! I’m not done. I’ve had enough Ginny. You can’t be mad at me for kissing or shagging who ever the fuck I want to. I’m an adult, I’m making my own choices and none of them are hurting you. Why are you being such a bitch to me and especially to Ros? She hasn’t done anything. You’ve also barely spoken to Luna lately!” Hermione ranted in a hushed yell.
“It is hurting me! You’re rubbing it in my face!” Ginny wasn’t really thinking at this point, if she was she’d have realised what was about to happen.
“Rubbing what in your face!?” Hermione was angry and confused.
“You! The fact I can’t have you! You suck and I just… I just want to kiss you all the time and then you flaunt it that you’re snogging everyone else! And more! It’s pissing me off and it hurts.” Ginny confessed without real thought and Hermione grit her teeth.
“You have Harry!” Hermione huffed.
“Yeah I know! And I love Harry… I do. But…” Ginny paled as she trailed off and looked down at her hands.
“I won’t do that to Harry.” Hermione spoke after a moment.
“If… if Harry wasn’t a factor, would I have a chance?” Ginny had lost all her bravado and her voice was small now.
“Ginny… answering that isn’t going to make you feel better.” Hermione sighed because the truth was that yes, Ginny would have a very real chance. She was brilliant and smart and driven and beautiful but she was also Hermiones best friends girlfriend and her other best friends little sister.
“I need to know.” Ginny finally did look up then and Hermione nodded slightly.
No sooner did Hermione's head dip did she find her arms full of fiery redhead and lips smashed to her own and for the life of her she couldn’t immediately remember why she shouldn’t be kissing Ginny back. Ginny for her part had grabbed onto Hermione and held her flush against her own body as she all but devoured the brunettes mouth and relished in the fact that Hermione was kissing her back. At least until she wasn’t and Ginny was pushed away by a firm hand on her shoulder. Hermione shook her head as if trying to clear it and looked suddenly pained at Ginny.
“I won’t do that to Harry. I can’t.” Hermione murmured and stepped back. Ginny looked like she was about to argue until she realized what was happening and she looked suddenly mortified.
“Merlin… please don’t tell him it happened again. I’m sorry. It was a heat of the moment mistake.” Hermione looked away as Ginny spoke hoping the redhead wouldn’t see the hurt in her eyes. She didn’t.
“Ok. Tell Luna I will see her later… I’m going back up to the castle.” Hermione muttered and stepped back again. Ginny nodded and all but fled. Rolf and Luna had ordered their own drinks and with them taken Harry Ron and Ginny’s back to the table.
Hermione lifted her hands and covered her face with them letting out a shaky sigh as she tried to pull herself together. It had only been in the last month while they weren’t talking that Hermione had fully realized why she had been so bothered and hurt by Ginny’s comment. Never had Ginny made her feel like less because of her blood status until that very day and it hurt because Hermione never wanted Ginny to view her like that. It hurt because she realized Ginny was jealous and acting out because of it but it also hurt because Ginny chose Harry and Hermione was beginning to find herself wondering why it couldn’t have been her the witch was attracted too.
“I’ve never met such a jealous little witch before.” Rosmerta made her presence known. Hermione took one look at the sympathetic witch and burst into tears.
“Oh, love. I don’t envy you at all.” Rosmerta gathered the little sobbing witch into her arms and just let her cry.
—
“Gran-… er, Herm… Miss Granger… can I have a word.” A familiar yet rather subdued and entirely uncertain voice greeted Hermione who was sitting in the Leaky Cauldron of all places.
After the events of the Three Broomstick, Hermione had been avoiding Ginny just as much as Ginny had been avoiding her and it was only a week and a half ago. Because of this Hermione hadn’t returned to the Burrow and politely declined Mollys invited despite the offer and insistence feigning to have plans to hunt out a small flat in the London area with hope of one being on the magical side. Molly had grudgingly accepted this though Harry had owned her a few times wondering why she wasn’t going to the Weasleys. She hadn’t been able to offer Harry more than a cursory letter too and had made excuses not to see him in the immediate future. Without a doubt things were a mess.
So instead of staying at the castle Hermione had gone to the Leaky Cauldron and booked a room for the 10 day holiday instead and so far had collect quite a bit of realestate Iinformation from both sides of the wall. It was currently evening and she was reading through some listings while idly eating the warm stew she’d been given, opting to eat downstairs with the other patrons instead of hiding herself away. Now looking up she was entirely bemused at the sight of the young man in front of her looking like he wished he was anywhere else in that moment.
“Draco I swear to Merlin himself that if you call me Miss ever again I will I’ll shove your wand up your arse and curse you from the inside.” Hermione offered after a moment and Draco cringed.
“Sorry I just…” Draco made a flippant gesture and trailed off.
“Call me Granger or heaven forbid, Hermione.” Hermione huffed out a light chuckle.
“Right, good yes. Anyway… my mother was wondering, completely up to you of course, but would you join us for dinner?” This gesture was a lot more direct and Hermione followed it to see a rather sheepish looking woman watching them.
“I… really?” Hermione frowned and looked to Draco.
“I won’t make excuses for myself. But my mother isn’t really all that cold… she was just scared. Aunt Bella was… you know. I mean you know. She was like that all the time, it didn’t matter who she was angry with, she’d torture them. I’d seen her torture mother shortly after they escaped Azkaban. Mother was terrified. She never spoke out of turn again.” Draco shifted and actually wrung his hands.
“So she was too scared to help me. What was your excuse?” Hermione leaned back in her seat and shifted her arm, it was warm and getting on in the evening so she had on a sweater but pulled up to her elbows.
“I don’t have one. Definitely not one that would make either of us feel better. I can admit to being extremely impressed though. The death eaters would brag about the damage they could inflict. The only reason Bellatrix cut you was because she could see that you weren’t going to break from the curse. You should have heard her after you’d been rescued. She cursed everyone in the room bar myself and mother, ranted about how some filthy little magic thief could possibly withstand her curse.” Draco was actually rambling excitedly.
“Wow I’ve never heard you talk so much.” Hermione commented, looking suddenly amused.
“Yes well… mother would like it if you ate with us, she wishes to speak with you but wants it to be on your terms not her own.” Draco explained seriously though a blush tinged his cheeks.
“Yeah… alright then. Colour me curious.” Hermione stood then and Draco actually stepped over and gathered her papers while she grabbed her dish and drink.
Hermione followed Draco over to a table where his mother seemed pleased yet was fussing and making sure there was room for Hermione and her things. Hermione just looked mildly amused before she set her bowl and glass down and then took the papers off of Draco and set them down as well as she took her own seat. Hermione then looked to Narcissa who had her mouth slightly open and a frown on her face her eyes settled on the scar on Hermione's arm.
“It would absolutely kill her to know it doesn’t seem to bother you.” Narciss spoke instead of a greeting.
“Not seem. It truly doesn’t bother me. I know what I am, a slur on my arm makes little difference to me.” Hermione corrected the woman lightly.
“Luckily for us she’s already dead.” Draco supplied then when his mother seemed a little lost for words. Hermione looked at him amused.
“She didn’t used to be like that, you know. Growing up. She was… fun and placid. She was my absolute favourite person once and it leaves me so horribly confused.” Narcissa informed the two young adults.
“Confused?” Draco seemed just that.
“A large part of me is relieved, maybe even glad she’s dead but…” Narcissa shrugged and looked down at her hands in her lap.
“I understand.” Hermione spoke gently then, getting Narcissas attention.
“You do?” Narcissa tilted her head.
“Yes. You’re glad that Bellatrix Lestrange, devoted supporter of Lord Voldemort is gone. But you’re devastated that Bellatrix Black, calm, quiet and fun big sister doesn’t exist even in essence anymore. It’s ok to grieve for your sister. To remember who she used to be, it’s ok to rejoice that not only is the dark lords tyranny over but so is the woman who your sister became.” Hermione spoke gently and Narcissa nodded and sniffled.
“That isn’t even really what I wanted to talk to you about.” Narcissa picked up her napkin and dabbed at her cheeks and eyes.
“Thank you Hermione, for understanding.” Narcissa smiled gently.
“Of course.” Hermione smiled gently.
“More importantly I wish to apologize. There was only one Gryffindor in that room that night and it most certainly was not me. I regret not trying though, you’re just a child. Someone’s baby.” Narcissa looked ashamed of herself and Hermione reached over and gently patted the woman’s hand.
“We survived how we knew best. You helped in the end, Harry told everyone you lied to save his life. That’s enough.” Hermione half shrugged then and smiled.
“You’re too forgiving.” Narcissa accused lightly.
“No, just too normal to hold grudges. Now dry your pretty face and smile.” Hermione urged lightly.
“Ugh, don’t flirt with my mother. It’s bad enough to know you shagged my ex.” Draco huffed at the brunette who just looked at him with a smirk.
“Pansy? I didn’t know you were gay. I thought you’d end up with one of the Weasleys.” Narcissa admitted suddenly.
“Mm no. I tried that was kind of what sparked my gay awakening I think. Women are just nicer all around. I mostly just feel stupid for not realizing sooner.” Hermione admitted.
“Well… good for you. I tend to prefer men myself but Odette and I used to fool around during my school years.” Narcissa grinned suddenly when she saw the look of disgust on Draco’s face.
“Oh come now Draco, I was a teenager once.” Narcissa teased.
“That is… great. Shame you prefer men though I know a witch who is single and very good in bed.” Hermione was entirely amused.
“You don’t mean Pansy?” Draco looked appalled at the idea and Hermione laughed outright.
“Merlin no. I meant Rosmerta.” She reassured the blonde wizard between chuckles and Narcissa was having a bit of a giggle herself.
“Oh… wait, she’s lady-loving? But she flirts with all those blokes?” Draco now looked confused.
“Sounds like good business tactics to me.” Narcissa commented amused and Draco still looked confused.
“If she’s a lesbian and she was open about that, do you think half the blokes that spend there money there would still go knowing full well they don’t have a chance in Tartarus of getting with her? I mean there’d be a few that would still buy drinks cause they like a drink and she is very easy to look at but still if they knew she was gay there’s no way she’d have as much patronage. So I bet she flirts her arse off with any guy in there, it makes the most sense.” Narcissa explained like it should have been obvious and Draco looked mildly affronted.
“The Lady gets it.” Hermione nodded and sipped what Draco had only just realized was firewhisky. Narcissa grinned.
“Maybe I’ll drop by the Three Broomsticks for a drink sometime soon. I fear a poor welcome though. Despite my husbands incarceration most people don’t like me, I was too close to all of it.” Narcissa sighed lightly.
“I’ll put in a good word for you but I feel we are wildly off point here. You wanted to speak with me about something?” Hermione guided the conversation back to the point.
“Yes. I’m looking at writing a biography of sorts. I’d like to tell the story of all of this from someone who was directly, indirectly, involved. The thing is I'd like a point of view from both sides and I’d like a fact checker. Would you be interested in talking with me about what you and the boys were up to pretty much from the beginning?” Narcissa asked curiously and a little hopefully yet this information took Hermione back a little.
“You want to get the story out? As in facts? And you’d let me fact check the whole thing?” Hermione was a bit surprised as she was far to used to short, out of context, newspaper articles that only told a fraction of a bigger story. This woman would likely do it justice.
“That is the idea, yes. I’d love to have your help with it.” Narcissa nodded.
“Why me? Why not someone else? Professor McGonagal?” Hermione asked curiously.
“Simply because you were very directly involved and rather adversely affected by it and I’d wager it all meant just as much to you as it did to Harry. Besides, you're positively brilliant in your own right and I’d rather have you fact check and I’m intensely curious about your story.” Narcissa explained seriously.
“Have you already started?” Hermione asked, getting a little excited.
“I have, I’d be willing to send you what I’ve already written before you commit if you like and if you help I’d have you listed as co-Author.” Narcissa nodded.
“Can you send it to me and I’ll definitely get back to you as soon as possible?” Hermione was eager and already knew she would likely say yes. She thought this was a brilliant idea.
“Of course. I’ll send it to you and you need only borrow Draco’s owl and reply. Ministry designated post owls as so we aren't to receive any unless they’re familiar due to… Fan mail. I believe you know what that’s like.” Narcissa pointed out gently. Hermione wrinkled her nose and nodded. Her fourth year had been less than amazing in that regard.
“Alright. Perfect. Maybe we can meet in the Three Broomsticks.” Hermione grinned suddenly.
“Maybe we can.” Narcissa agreed with a slow grin of her own.
“You’re going to turn me off my food.” Draco grumbled and both women laughed lightly at him. Needless to say Hermione had a less lonely evening than she had been anticipating.