Chapter 18

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Work had been demanding of late, it was a good distraction. 

If he did one thing right, it was his job and building his empire.

Draco frowned at the mountains of files on his table.

Did it never end?

Every day, he went through close to fifty proposals.

Handpicking the best ones was always the best part and so far, there hadn't been a project he regretted working on.

A large file caught his attention.

The architecture of the unique building stood out from the rest; Draco liked to be associated with a one of a kind project.

It gave the company a boost and his ego.

He studied the cover picture and flipped the proposal open, he was hooked.

It was a vast building project in Sweden.

Two entwining skyscrapers reached into the clouds.

The plan was mesmerizingly beautiful.

Not only was it lucrative, but it was also interesting, it wasn't always about the money.

Glancing at the contact, Draco groaned, trust Astoria to bring the project.

Having serious second doubts about the whole thing, he flipped through the detailed proposal.

Reluctantly, he picked up the phone and made the dreaded call.

Two hours later, Astoria was in his office, dressed in a crisp two-piece suit and happy disposition.

The woman was punctual, impressive.

Glancing at the proposal in Draco's hand, Astoria's small eyes sparkled with interest, "It's a good one, isn't it?"

The proposal had been quite impressive, he had to hand it to her.

It was remarkably interesting and he knew it would be a unique project.

Tossing the file over to her, he replied enthusiastically, "It is, I'll take this project."

Leaning back against his chair he asked seriously, "How do we proceed?"

Astoria smiled brightly and informed without hesitation, "They will be thrilled. I will speak to the firm and set up a meeting. We might have to leave in a day or two."

Did she say leave?

"I'm not following, Astoria," Draco asked slightly confused at what she said.

Her eyes met his and she explained, "We need to go to Sweden to meet them at their head office."

"We?" He questioned cautiously.

Oh shit! This was going to bite him in the arse.

Astoria let out a small laugh incredulously, "Of course, it's my client, Draco."

Giving it a few minutes thought, Draco came to an important decision, he could spend a few days in Sweden with Astoria.

Hopefully, she wouldn't try anything crazy.

Internally, Astoria burst with joy, he had taken the bait, she knew the project would get him interested.

This would be her chance to make something real happen between them.

They would be alone, she would have him all to herself in a foreign country, especially with his precious Gryffindor Princess out of the way, she had a real chance.

Draco waved his hand uninterested and said, "Fine, arrange it and inform Doris."

Astoria stared at him, as he returned to reading the remaining proposals.

Just like that, she was dismissed.

She wondered, whether he treated Granger like this or if it was only for her benefit.

A few days later at the Ministry Of Magic...

Keeping the Death Eater issue away from the press had been a tedious and challenging task.

They had a lead and the Auror's got back from scout duty, Kingsley along with them.

The Minister was taking an active interest in the case.

Draco had gone with the team on the scout, and they sat in the Ministers elaborate office discussing the best course of action, over bottles of butterbeer.

Hermione attended to a few details of the upcoming Anniversary Celebration Ball, while the men engaged in conversation.

At Draco's voice, her ears perked up in attention.

She continued her work but listened to every word intently.

He cleared his throat and said, "I will be leaving the country tomorrow for three days Minister, I will, however, be contactable at all times."

Hermione shifted uncomfortably in her chair and it scraped against the hardwood floor.

Three pairs of eyes turned to look at her, but she purposely ignored them.

Kingsley raised an eyebrow, the Minister seemed irritated, "We need you here Malfoy, what is so pressing that you need to leave England?"

Draco eyed Hermione briefly, this was not how he wanted to reveal why and most importantly who he was going with, but it wasn't like it meant anything.

It was business nothing more, nothing less.

Swallowing, he replied nervously, "I er...have a business meeting with Astoria Greengrass in Sweden over a new contract."

What the fuck did she just hear? He was going away with Astoria.

What?

The chair scraped loudly as Hermione stood up abruptly, it wobbled dangerously and almost toppled to the ground.

Harry threw her a look of concern, Draco avoided looking at her completely and Kingsley was completely oblivious to the tension in the room.

The Minister nodded understandably, "I see, we will contact you if needed."

Hermione stormed out of the office without bothering to excuse herself.

Why that no good blond haired Slytherin fucker!

Harry and Draco exchanged a grave look.

They both knew what Hermione was fuming about.

Draco got to his feet and adjusted his shirt, "Would you excuse me, Kingsley? I will be back shortly."

Looking at Harry for confirmation, Kingsley replied, "I think we have covered as much as we can today. See you when you return, Malfoy."

The men shook hands and Harry and Draco exited the Minister's office.

Before Harry could help it, he mumbled, "Err...good luck, Malfoy."

Draco glanced at the man at his side and grimaced, "Thanks, Potter."

Draco made his way to Hermione's office.

"Hey Brenda, is she in?" He asked pointing towards the closed doors and turning on his full charm.

Brenda giggled as she always did when she saw Draco and replied, "Yes, Mr Malfoy, she's in."

He pushed the door and was about to step in when her magnified voice came from within, "This is not what we ordered, I have complained four times already."

She hissed dangerously into the phone, "This is a Ministry matter, don't make me revoke your license."

He sighed and silently cursed, great! This was going to be fun!

Pushing the door open fully, Draco pulled himself up to his full height and walked in to face the woman who brought him to his knees.

Hermione was already on her feet walking about, with her mobile phone clutched tightly in her hand when she noticed him lurking near the entrance.

She glared, "What do you want, Malfoy?

So much for a warm welcome.

Draco felt his temper rise, Hermione always brought out extreme emotions in him.

He fired back, "What do I want? What the hell is wrong with you?"

She crossed her arms across her chest making her breasts rise and stared him down, "I don't know what you're talking about."

Carefully placing his hands on her table, he leaned forward, "Really? You want to play this game with me?"

Narrowing her eyes, she replied, "Again, I don't know what you are on about."

Draco bluntly pointed it out, "Your abrupt exist from the Minister's office."

Hermione let out a small laugh and asked sarcastically, "I had things to do, did you think it was for your benefit?"

Refusing to back the fuck down, Draco replied, "As a matter of fact, I do"

She fixed him with a look of loathing and disgust.

She spat in contempt, "Who you take on trips and who you share your bed with is no longer my concern."

Hermione cocked her head to the side and added, "But it would be useful if you could take the job entrusted to you seriously."

That was it. He was now frothing mad, "What the hell does that mean?"

She matched his temper and tone, "We have a grave issue at hand and your intel is required, how the hell are you supposed to do your job when you're off prancing about with your newest conquest?"

Prancing about? Was he a fucking centaur?

Draco laughed sarcastically, "Oh, so now you need me. I thought I was an incognito agent of little use to the Ministry?"

He closed his eyes momentarily, willing himself to calm down.

She's upset, you idiot, try to appease her not piss her the fuck off.

His tone softened, "It's a business meeting Hermione, I'm not taking Astoria to fuck her or do anything else."

Hermione flinched at the word "fuck."

He wouldn't! he couldn't! She would never forgive him if he did.

That Gryffindor pride kicked in, "Whatever Malfoy, I don't fucking care!"

Heaven forbid, he should know she cared about him and their fucked-up relationship.

At that point, Draco wanted to gather her in his arms and kiss her.

He tried his best to explain, "I have told you many times that Astoria means nothing to me."

She shot back angrily, "I told you Ron meant nothing to me but did you believe me, no you didn't, so why should I believe you?"

His anger returned to its full strength.

Why the fuck did she have to bring up that fucking asshole!?

He growled, "Don't do that! Do not bring Weasley into this! I didn't fucking snog Astoria."

Hermione stared at Draco; his eyes narrowed to mere slits.

Not caring, she pressed, "I didn't kiss Ron either Draco, not willingly."

She let out an exasperated sigh, "Argh, why am I listening to you, when you didn't give me the time of day to explain a fucking thing."

Draco leaned across her table, took a deep breath and replied urgently, "We care about each other, that did not go away our years apart and it sure as hell won't go away now."

He almost pleaded, "I have a company to maintain, Granger, this is just a meeting."

He enunciated each word, "Nothing.is.going.to.happen."

He was desperate for her to understand that he would never take another woman to bed when all he pictured was making love to her.

Hermione choked back a sob, "Yeah, until something does, please leave, Draco,"

Looking deep into the tear-stained brown orbs, he said seriously, "Don't do anything stupid while I'm away, Hermione, I fucking mean it."

His heart broke to leave her in distress.

His next question caught her completely off-guard, "Would you like me to bring you back a snow globe?"

She muttered a quick yes.

Draco left the room with a small smile on his face.

Sweden...

Sweden was bitterly cold, Draco buttoned the thick coat to the top.

His face was frozen, and his hands were plunged deep into his pockets to keep warm.

Astoria walked next to him bundled up in colourful scarves making her stand out against the brown and white setting.

She eyed the brightly lit restaurants and asked for the hundredth time, "There are many restaurants around the hotel Draco, please can we go to one?"

Draco rolled his eyes, "The hotel has a perfectly good dining room Astoria."

She pouted, her lips jutting out sadly, "Please, live a little," she complained in her sugary-sweet voice.

Draco had no intention of living a little anything with her.

She had been coming onto him strongly.

Let us just say, if he wished he would be waking up next to a very naked Astoria Greengrass.

Despite her crude and desperate attempt of trying to bed him and snatch him, Draco found her to be an intelligent woman, who handled the meetings with finesse.

Pausing to ask important questions, complimenting the game changers, and using subtle womanly wiles to get her way.

She did not have the command Hermione did but Astoria had something.

The first two meetings went flawlessly thanks to her, leaving them with a final meeting.

It wouldn't kill him to take the woman out to dinner.

He sighed and replied in defeat, "Fine, pick the restaurant and let's go."

Astoria squealed in delight and hung onto his arm.

He rolled his eyes, oh, fuck, he regretted it already.

On the way back to the hotel, Draco stopped outside a souvenir shop.

Astoria looked at him perplexed.

Leaving her to her own devices, he walked in with purpose.

A port jovial shopkeeper with a bushy beard greeted them with a warm smile,

Draco smiled and politely requested, "I'm looking for a snow globe."

Astoria followed him in and curiously asked, "Snow globe?"

The shopkeeper brought out an extensive collection.

They were all beautiful and Draco struggled to pick one.

He picked up each one delicately, looking at the falling fake snow and fixtures inside.

Astoria scrunched up her face and picked up one herself, "What are you doing, Draco?"

Draco smiled and replied tenderly, "It's for Hermione, she has a thing for Snow globes."

Astoria scowled and Draco deliberately ignored her.

She almost dropped the one she was holding, banged it loudly on the table and hurriedly left the shop in a huff.

Her little tantrum barely interested him.

Draco settled on a beautiful slightly larger globe, with a couple hugging inside.

It reminded him of their happier times when they went ice skating.

Astoria was nowhere to be seen, pocketing the globe inside his large coat, Draco went back to the hotel.

After a long shower, he stepped into the comfort of the suite, a whiff of steam followed him out.

A towel hung loosely on his hips, his chest bare, he reached for a black t-shirt when a knock on the door interrupted him.

He narrowed his eyes at the door and jogged over to open it.

A fully dressed Astoria stood outside, in a short black cocktail dress with a plunging neckline, her cleavage on show and a large ornate locket rested snug between her breasts.

She bit her lip and took him fully.

Gods, he was perfect, it had been years since they slept together.

He was so tight and toned, it made her whimper.

Without waiting for him to ask her in, she stepped in boldly.

Draco raised an eyebrow.

Running hungry eyes over him, Astoria asked curiously, "Why are you not ready for dinner?"

Shit, it completely slipped his mind.

He frowned, "I forgot. I'll meet you in the lobby," anything to get her out of his room.

She stepped batted her eyelashes, moved closer and extended a hand to touch him, "I can stay if you want."

He caught her wrist and pushed her back slightly.

Draco pressed his lips down and hissed, "No Astoria, If I wasn't clear before, I'm not going to sleep with you."

He wasn't going to do a damn thing to fuck up things further with Hermione.

Embarrassed and humiliated, Astoria backed off completely, "I'll be at the bar."

Draco nodded and closed the door behind her.

Changing quickly into a dark blue shirt and black trousers, he went looking for the aristocratic Slytherin woman.

True to her word she was at the bar, running her fingers along the rim of a margarita glass.

Sidling into the seat next to her, Draco ordered a scotch neat with two ice cubes.

They discussed the meetings and the remaining ones.

He asked about her elder sister Daphne who was away in Australia at work.

They slept together in school, but this wasn't school, this was real life and he just wasn't interested.

After dinner, they apparated back to the hotel. Astoria was tipsy, and Draco walked her to her room.

Outside the room, she looked at him through hooded eyes expectantly and he knew what was coming before she moved.

Bidding her a quick goodnight, he hurriedly walked away but not before he saw her face fall in disappointment.

In his room, Draco unbuttoned his shirt, flicked through the channels and settled on a Muggle movie.

Striping down to his boxers, he laid down on the luxurious bedding.

A flash of Hermione twirling in a bathrobe appeared before him, she was laughing and smiling at him.

Draco hung his head and held it tightly.

Astoria maintained a professional relationship afterwards and Draco was relieved.

The last meeting was done and dusted with positive results, they had Portkeyed back to London and parted ways until the next slew of meetings required her presence.

At Hermione's flat...

Ginny frowned, took the bowl of chips Hermione offered her and yelled, "Shut up! He's in Sweden, with Astoria?

Hermione plopped herself down on the couch, "Whatever, it's none of my business."

Ginny rolled her eyes and continued, "Oh really? Are your eyes normally that red?"

Hermione sniffed, "I can't take any more of this, I miss him so much!"

She reached over and squeezed her friend's hand, "I know, Mi, honestly, I think both of you are fucking morons."

Hermione threw a cushion at Ginny and said sarcastically, "You're my friend, hello!"

Ginny shook her head and replied sternly, "You buggers are both so stubborn."

She thought long and hard about what Blaise mentioned, deciding Hermione had the right to know, she took a deep breath.

Ginny sighed, "I met Blaise when he bought over the Harpies equipment and he agrees that the pair of you are morons."

She added sadly, "He mentioned something about Malfoy drinking a lot after you guys broke up."

Hermione sat up straighter and stared into Ginny's face, she asked in concern, "What?"

Ginny shrugged her shoulders, "I don't know, but Blaise did say it though."

That bit of news upset really Hermione.

She fought back the tears that threatened to spill over and clutched the cushion to her chest tightly.

At the Ministry...

Hermione threw herself into work, it kept her mind and body occupied.

The Anniversary celebration was upon them and there was still much to be done.

Brenda and she worked hard to make sure everything was perfect.

Her heart had been working overtime and it was time to give her brain the time it deserved.

She frowned at the paper, Draco and Astoria made the front page even from Sweden.

They were having dinner at some fancy pish posh restaurant.

Hermione felt her blood boil, so much for nothing will happen.

Fucking bullshit!

The no-good bloody Slytherin.

If he was doing it purposely to hurt her, it was working.

Hermione crumpled up the Daily Prophet and threw it basketball-style into her dustbin, the discarded ball found its mark and she let out an excited, "YES!"

The knock at her door distracted her and she looked up.

Brenda stepped into the office looking nervous and holding a letter by the very edge as if it would contaminate her if she held it longer than needed.

Hermione raised her eyebrows in question and Brenda shrugged her shoulders equally confused.

She gingerly placed the envelope on Hermione's desk and hurriedly backed away.

Hermione eyed the letter with caution and questioned Brenda seriously, "Where did this come from?"

Brenda shrugged and eyed the letter anxiously, "I don't know who gave the letter to Lewis, he said a man gave the letter and disappeared."

Hermione pushed back her chair and took out her wand cautiously.

Pointing it at the letter, she muttered a complex incantation over it, but the letter strangely remained still.

Perplexed, Hermione tried another spell but the white envelope didn't so much as flinch.

It seemed innocent, quickly dismissing her fidgety assistant and careful not to let bare skin touch the letter, she tore it apart using her wand.

Instant dread, as her eyes rapidly scanned over the written words.

A coldness spread through the room and settled over her

She swallowed hard and her old scar twitched viciously.

Grabbing the letter, Hermione burst out of her room followed by a scared-looking Brenda and ran straight into the Auror department and to Harry.

Harry stood up at once as Hermione entered his office looking dishevelled.

With trembling hands, she gingerly placed the letter on his table.

He eyed it cautiously and implored, "What's going on Hermione?"

She locked angry eyes with him and pointed to the letter.

Harry stared at the dirty piece of paper on his desk. Reaching for his wand, he wordlessly opened the letter with a spell.

MUDBLOOD, I WILL BE COMING FOR YOU SOON.

I HAVE WAITED LONG TO WATCH YOUR FILTHY BLOOD SPILL.

BE WARNED, YOUR DIRTY BLOOD WILL NOT STOP ME FROM TAKING YOU.

Taking you?

What the fuck did that mean? Was it sexual?

Harry's blood ran cold, as he read and reread the letter.

Hermione stared at him and he stared back unable to find the right words to use.

Harry found his voice and said seriously, "We must meet the Minister, immediately.'"

His face contorted in disgust and anger, he would kill anyone who touched his best friend.

Kingsley looked up in alarm at the hurriedly approaching duo, "Harry, Hermione what's the matter?"

Harry gave him the letter and reported gravely, "Things are about to get far more serious Shacklebot."

Kingsley quickly scanned the letter and banged his fist on the large oak table in absolute fury.

He bellowed angrily, "HOW DARE THEY THREATEN A MINISTRY OFFICIAL."

He instructed sternly, "Hermione bring Brenda and Lewis, we need to get to the bottom of this immediately."

Interrogating Lewis proved useless, the man remembered nothing except a hooded figure.

Whoever it was, knew Hermione and knew what they were doing well enough to neatly cover their tracks.

Wales...

The dark figure stood by the window again and ran his fingers through his long black hair.

He smiled crookedly, it was time.

He shivered with anticipation at spilling her blood.

Somehow he knew it would be deeply satisfying to watch the red hot liquid gush out of her veins.

The woman was beautiful, it had been long since he laid with soft skin.

Perhaps, there would be time to satisfy his sexual needs.

He stroked himself over his dirty trousers to the image of taking her from behind and ripping her in half.

Dolohov shuddered with anticipation.

Over the next three days, four more letters arrived at the Ministry.

All targeting Muggle-Born witches and wizards.

Hermione received a second letter, explicitly detailing the deranged individual's sexual desires and how they would be fulfilled soon.

Fear gripped her whole, unable to speak, she walked on quivering legs and handed over the letter.

Harry had been outraged and insisted upon Auror protection.

She gripped her wand tightly and shook her head, "No Harry, I can take care of myself."

She reassured told her best friend but he wasn't convinced.

Hermione thought of Draco, should she tell him?

She decided against it, it wasn't his problem.

Harry frowned and said in a serious voice, "This is dangerous, Hermione, at least come stay with Ginny and me, until all this blows over."

She nodded and accepted without fuss.

The idea appealed to Hermione and she left early to gather her things.

Draco is back...

It was past eleven pm and Draco sat in the Minister's office with Harry.

He had taken to giving information and taking his briefing during the late hours of the night.

The darkness provided a haven for him to visit the Ministry unseen.

The whole situation was risky, but it was a worthy cause and he wanted nothing more than to catch the bastards.

Kingsley cleared his throat, "Malfoy, there's been a new development in your absence, a rather disturbing one."

Draco raised his eyebrow curiously, "Tell me, Minister." Not liking how nervous Kingsley sounded and scared Potter looked.

Harry clenched his teeth and hissed darkly, "Threatening notes and letters have arrived at the Ministry and the homes of individuals, we believe they're from Dolohov."

He glanced at Kingsley, his look grave and concerned, "They have wiped the mind of Lewis, so we have no way of knowing who handed the letters over."

Draco leaned forward and listened intently, "These letters, who are they targeting?"

Harry shifted uncomfortably unable to look Draco in the eye and muttered, "Muggle-borns mainly."

Draco narrowed his eyes suspiciously, "Who got these death threats, Potter?"

His tone was deadly and full of worry.

Kingsley stepped in, "Justin, Helen and ...Hermione, she got the first two."

The letters in an envelope, Harry handed them to Malfoy.

"WHAT?" Draco bellowed, losing his composure.

He looked at Harry and asked panicked, "Does she have Auror protection, Potter?"

"She's quite capable...," Harry started, but Draco cut him off, "Answer the fucking question does Hermione have an Auror escort with her?"

Tearing the envelope, Draco took out the letters addressed to Hermione and read them.

He narrowed his eyes and took in the explicit description of what Dolohov intended for her body.

Fuck! What the hell was this? If anyone touched her, he would become a murderer, simple as that.

He threw the letters away in disgust.

Harry refused to back down, "She refused upfront Malfoy, but she will be staying with Ginny and myself until this matter is resolved."

It offered little relief, Draco preferred Hermione to stay with him.

He rounded on the men in fury, "Why the fuck wasn't I told?" after a beat, he added urgently, "Where the hell is she?"

"Calm down, Malfoy," Kingsley interrupted firmly, trying to defuse the tense situation between the two men when they were surprised by Harry second in command.

Angus tried to catch his breath, he clutched his chest and solemnly said, "Forgive my intrusion, Sir, there's been an attack in Downtown London,"

Draco's heart sank at once, and a feeling of dread settled in the pit of his stomach as he exchanged a grave look with Harry.

"WHO WAS IT?" Kingsley's voice boomed and echoed off the walls in the office.

Angus looked at the three men nervously, "It's Granger, Sir."

The silence that followed was unnerving.

Draco got to Angus first, he grabbed the man by the collar and demanded, "Where is she?"

He tried his best to keep the fear out of his voice.

If Hermione died, there would be little to no point in living.

He would be a dead shell of a man like he had been since they broke up.

Angus cleared his throat afraid of Draco and his reaction, "She's at St. Mungo's she got there herself and alerted us."

He caught his breath and continued, "Managed to stun the escaped Death Eater."

Angus turned his attention to Harry, "We have him in custody, Harry."

Momentary relief washed over them.

Draco snarled darkly, "Let's go see the bastard."

Harry clutched his wand tightly and nodded in agreement with his former rival.

A deranged man sat in the chair, magically chained and laughing at the approaching men, "Gentlemen, so good to see you."

Draco didn't hesitate, he lunged forward and his fist connected with the man's face, sending him backwards with the chair, "You fucking dare to touch her, Dolohov?''

Dolohov spat blood at Draco's feet and grinned manically, "The boy has grown up, your father would skin you alive and your filthy Mudblood bitch."

Draco leaned close to Dolohov's face his wand tip digging deep into Dolohov's cheek, "It's a good thing my fucking father is dead then you scum."

Pure rage radiated off him into his very fingers as he pressed the wand deeper.

The man laughed harder still and licked his lips, "Skin so soft to touch."

Something within Draco broke and tossing his wand aside, he beat down on the Death Eater with his bare hands breaking his nose.

Blood dark red splatted everywhere, getting on his knuckles and clothes.

He spat, "I'll kill you if you touched her."

Draco felt a firm hand on his shoulder pull him back, he retreated reluctantly glaring at the deranged and demonic man.

Harry kept his eyes on Dolohov and said seriously, "Malfoy, you should leave, I need to obliviate him, so, your part in all this remains unknown."

Draco nodded and replied slowly, "I'll be at St Mungo's if you need me."

He disapparated to St Mungo's and called Bernard, "There's been an emergency, I will contact you soon."

Draco could sense Bernard's concern, "Be careful son."

He forced a smile, "Always old man."

He took the stairs two at a time.

The receptionist greeted him, "Patients name?"

"Hermione Jean Granger," Draco felt his voice shake as he uttered her full name.

His courage deserted him completely.

The receptionist pointed to a room and smiled, "Second room to the left."

Draco stood outside Hermione's room and stared at her sleeping figure.

A healer walked past him into the room and threw him a suspicious look, "Who are you?"

"I'm her boy....," He stopped himself midsentence and corrected himself, "I'm her friend."

Draco straightened himself to his full height and took charge, "How is she?''

The Healer touched Hermione's arm and replied, "She a tough one, came in covered in blood and half dead."

Draco flinched.

The Healer smiled reassuringly, "We stopped the bleeding, but she's been tortured and until she regains consciousness, it is difficult to know the extent of her injuries."

His eyes firmly on his witch, Draco nodded in acknowledgement.

Deep cuts and bruises adorned her arms and parts of her face, he touched him gently and cursed Dolohov to the depths of hell.

He took out his wand and softly muttered, "Legilimens."

Memories whizzed by, he saw her crying and whisper, "What if he falls in love with Astoria?"

He looked past without lingering.

Fast forward to a dark street.

People around.

She sensed she was being followed.

Hurried footsteps.

Instant darkness.

Dolohov's hands on her, cupping her chin and face.

His fingers digging into her soft skin.

The deranged lunatic's lips close to hers.

Tears streaming down her face.

Hexes, rays upon rays of hexes.

She made contact and Dolohov fell backwards, his chest split open and blood spurted out.

Blood, so much blood.

The whisper of his name, "Draco," before she passed out.

He withdrew from her memories and collapsed at her feet in tears.

Draco heard a commotion outside, wand ready, he headed out of the room ready to curse whoever it was to oblivion but it was Potter with two other Aurors.

Harry stepped into the room and asked urgently, "How is she?"

Turning his attention back to Hermione, Draco recited the words the Healer had told him.

The Healer in question came forward, "Harry Potter Sir, good to meet you, we are doing all we can for Miss Granger."

Harry took the mans hand in a firm shake and patted him on the back, "Thank you."

Draco rolled his eyes, Saint Potter.

He stood beside Hermione's bed, looking down at her sleeping form.

Reaching over, he brushed away wild strands of hair out of her face.

Pale and fragile, the cuts and bruises were healing well.

Draco swallowed, what if she had died?

Dolohov was a powerful wizard; Hermione was lucky to be alive.

Stupid stubborn Gryffindor, thinking she could handle everything.

Unconsciously, he ran his fingers along her cheek and wiped away congealed blood from the corner of her mouth.

Harry's voice cut through his random thoughts, "Malfoy, I've got Aurors posted outside, you can leave if you wish."

Draco shook his head and stated firmly, "No, I'm staying with her."

Harry stared at the Slytherin, Malfoy was obviously not going to change his mind.

The platinum blonde conjured a chair out of thin air and sat down by Hermione's bed.

Harry couldn't help but smile at the pair.

At St Mungo's...

It was still dark.

Hermione stirred, opened her eyes and looked around disoriented.

She struggled to sit up and felt firm hands help her.

Turning to look at her helper, she whispered her voice barely audible, "Draco?"

"Where am I?" She questioned quietly.

Draco tried not to startle her and replied softly, "Take it easy Hermione, you've been through a lot."

Her eyes rolled back in her head and it all came rushing back.

Clutching her head in pain, Hermione let out a loud groan.

Draco caught her and held her against his chest, "Why Granger, why did you refuse the Auror detail?"

My love, my life.

He pleaded, his voice breaking.

Hermione held onto him tightly, the pain in her head was excruciating.

She doubled over in his hands and vomited.

A dull haze settled, she could see Draco rushing out of her room, yelling for a Healer before she passed out.

The next day...

Sunlight streamed into the room or what seemed like sunlight.

Her eyes fluttered and opened, she could make out Harry and Draco along with Angus.

Hermione felt much better, she struggled but managed to sit up on her own and greeted the men standing in her room, "Morning gentlemen."

They all turned towards her, but it was Draco who reached her first.

He stroked her face and asked in concern, "How are you feeling?"

She felt her head and hands and asked, "Loads better, err...have you been here the whole night?"

Draco glanced at the other two men who purposely looked away.

He touched her forehead tenderly, "Yes, I wanted to make sure you were okay.''

Hemione felt a tear slide down her face and Draco brushed it away.

Harry came to stand next to her and held her hand, "Hermione, thank Merlin."

He beamed and said proudly, "Good job on stunning Dolohov! He's on his way back to Azkaban under maximum security and it's the dementors kiss for him."

He sounded so much like an older brother acknowledging his younger sister's accomplishments.

The Healer came in and spoke to all three men cheerfully, concentrating more on Harry than the other two, "Miss Granger is well on her way to a full recovery, she will be able to go home in a few hours."

Harry spoke up, "I can take you home, Hermione."

Draco interrupted, "No, I'll take her, Potter."

Harry glanced at Hermione, she gave him a look of uncertainty but nodded giving her approval.

What the hell was Draco playing at?

Once the Healer considered her fit to be released, she got off the bed and lost her balance at once.

Draco caught her easily and placing one hand against her back and the other under her knees, he lifted her with him.

He held her firmly in his arms and stared at her in pain and desperation.

Her breathing quickened; she could hear the hammering of his heart against her ear.

Draco disapparated straight into her flat.

At Hermione's flat...

Hermione was sure she was in some fucked up dream and fantasy deep within her mind.

Draco placed her gingerly on the couch and went into the kitchen, he knew his way around her flat.

She watched in interest as he made tea for them and then brought it over.

Grateful, she accepted the steaming mug and took a sip; the strong aroma filled her nostrils and the sweet liquid travelled down her scratchy throat feeling heavenly.

He sat down next to her and asked gently, "Why didn't you tell me about the letters?"

Hermione averted her gaze continued to sip the delicious tea.

He cleared his throat and asked sternly, "Granger, I asked you a question."

Hermione swallowed her tea allowing the liquid to soothe her insides.

She turned to face him and replied, "You don't work for the Ministry and I don't make it a habit of running to my ex-boyfriend for every little thing."

She added with contempt, "Besides you were away on your little holiday with Astoria."

Draco rolled his eyes and retorted sarcastically, "You make the exception for Weasley by running to him for everything."

He raised his voice, "And it wasn't a fucking holiday, Granger, it was a bloody business meeting, nothing happened."

Rolling her eyes, she refused to take the bait he so ardently offered.

She cocked her head to the side and asked mockingly, "Why are you even here Draco, isn't Astoria wondering where you are?"

Draco narrowed his eyes stared her down.

He kept his cool, "Despite popular belief and opinion, I'm not with Astoria and have no plans of ever courting her."

He stared into her eyes and rasped, "I'm in love with someone else."

Draco reached over and cupped Hermione's face, she was so close, he itched to kiss her.

He kissed her knuckles and whispered miserably, "I'm worried about you, if something happened to you, I ....."

She interrupted him gently, "You what?"

Fuck this!

He kissed her then.

Merlin, she was his.

Her lips moulded to his instantly and moved in perfect unison.

Desperately, Draco pulled her closer, careful not to disturb her bandages.

Hermione responded with all the pent up passion and anger.

She pushed her tongue into his mouth and against his heatedly.

They hung onto each other and kissed passionately.

A loud thud and impatient knocking at her door interrupted their moment of passion.

Groaning, they broke apart reluctantly.

Dammit!

Hermione was about to get up when Draco stared her down and went to open the door.

Ginny gave Draco a puzzled yet disgusted look and pushed him aside roughly.

She ran inside and hugged Hermione, "Are you okay? Harry just told me."

Draco closed the door and leaned against the wall to watch the two friends.

Hermione held onto Ginny and reassured, "I'm fine, Gin, really I am."

Satisfied that Hermione was indeed fine, Ginny turned her attention to Draco.

She got to her feet, crossed her arms over her chest and sneered, "Thank you for looking after Mi, but I'm here now so you can sod off back to Astoria."

The fiery-tempered redhead was never one to mince words.

An awkward silence filled the room and Draco quickly shoved his wand back into his pocket.

Hermione felt a strange windy sensation within her flat, and she eyed him suspiciously.

What the hell was he doing with his wand out? Was he going to hex Ginny?

But no, he smiled at Ginny affectionately and hadn't even resorted to some pratty come back.

Hermione caught him staring at her, his eyes said enough and without another word, he disapparated with a loud crack.

At the Ministry...

Harry was standing over his table when Draco walked in.

He looked up and asked, "How is Hermione?"

Draco laughed and said, "She's good, I was unceremoniously dismissed by your fiancé."

Harry grinned and replied proudly, "That's Ginny for you."

Draco twirled his wand and said seriously, "I've put security charms on Grangers flat."

His eyes sparkled dangerously, "The second any fucker crosses the threshold, I'll be informed."

He hesitated and explained calmly, "She doesn't know I put the enchantments and I'd rather keep it that way, Potter."

Harry nodded and eyed the ice blonde.

He tried his best to understand the man.

Harry raised a curious brow and asked, "Why are you doing all this for her, Malfoy?"

Draco stared at Harry like he was some daft fucking bimbo.

A smile curved his lips, "Isn't that obvious? I love her, Potter."

He turned on his heel and left the office, leaving Harry to stare after the ex-Slytherin in utter confusion.

A few days later...

Hermione returned to work after two days and it felt great to be back.

Ginny stayed with her throughout and Draco stayed away despite the mind-altering kiss they shared.

He did, however, drop the odd text inquiring after her well being.

Brenda hugged her tightly and Hermione was glad to hear that no further attacks had taken place.

A large bouquet greeted her, the sweet scent of two dozen roses filled the room.

She didn't need to read the card to know who it was from, Draco Malfoy had class.

Kingsley stopped by and congratulated her on a job well done and then proceeded to give her an awkward hug.

He patted her back awkwardly, the man was not big on emotional displays.

Justin and Helen were given Auror protection and escorts after what happened to her and she sighed in relief.

Hopefully, this madness would end soon.

With Dolohov caught, the others would disband or be in complete disarray.

Dolohov spat in their faces and laughed when asked about the location of their hideout.

Hermione took off her glasses, stuck her wand through her hair and leaned back.

Cormac stepped into her office during lunch to see how she was doing and brought her a huge slab of chocolate from Honeydukes.

He winked and said candidly, "To keep your spirits up."

She graciously accepted the treat and shared it with Brenda.