Most ardently by Swift Night Chapter 24, the tent erected on
the lawn of Featherfield Hall was alive with magic as the
couple recited their vows. Hermione stood just behind Luna
as a bridesmaid, transfixed by how her silver dress shone in
the afternoon sun. Nature itself seemed to have
blessed the match, ensuring there was not a cloud in the sky
and the gardens were full in bloom after a week of rainy
weather that had threatened to move the event inside.
When the officiant declared them bound, Luna and Mr. Zabini
leaned towards one another to share a kiss.
The crowd of spectators applauded, transitioning to
gasps as hundreds of blue butterflies appeared above them,
flying off in all directions and filling the tent with colour.
Hermione's eyes strayed past the couple, landing on Mr. Zabini's
best man and her betrothed. Draco had already been watching
her, his expression filled with longing.
She knew exactly what he was thinking because she felt the
same as him. In one month, it would be their
turn to stand at the altar on the grounds of Malfoy Manor and
declare their love in front of their family and friends and
Peacocks. But now it was time to celebrate
her sister's happy union. Once instructed by the
officiant, the guests all stood from their seats and with a wave
of a wand, the chairs vanished to make room for the dance
floor. Mr. Sabini LED Luna from the
dais, the crowd parting to let them pass until they reached the
centre of the tent. Soft music filled the space as
the couples began their first dance.
When the announcer opened the floor to other couples to join
in, Hermione didn't have to look far to find Draco, his hand
already outstretched toward her. I believe I promised you a
dance, Miss Granger. He offered her a low bow that
she returned with a courtesy, if only to indulge his insistence
on proper manners. Only one?
She asked as he began leading her through the steps.
Why? I thought I was promised a full
dance card this evening. Mr. Malfoy, my darling witch,
you may have as many as you like.
Draco conceded easily. Aside from the one I owe my
mother. I suppose I can spare you one
dance, if only out of my fondness and appreciation for
Narcissa. It was true, Hermione had grown
closer to her future mother-in-law over the last few
weeks. She'd arrived at Ottery St.
Catchpole the day after the family dinner at the Borough and
invited Hermione, alongside her mother and sisters, to
Featherfield for tea the following day.
Just as she had immediately taken to Narcissa, so did Luna
and the rest of the Weasleys. Narcissa had no trouble
convincing Missus Weasley to give her control over the bulk
of the wedding planning, which ultimately saved Hermione from
the most tedious tasks and trivial discussions.
The witch still insisted on hearing her opinion, but having
already vetted the options to only her top choices, Narcissa
made it far less stressful when it came to selecting floral
arrangements and napkin colours. As Draco spun her around the
dance floor, she caught sight of Narcissa watching them while
speaking with the wizard she recognised as Professor
Slughorn. When the song ended, Hermione
pointed out the interaction with Draco, who rolled his eyes and
sighed. I should rescue her.
He straightened, looking like he was preparing for a duel rather
than a friendly conversation with one of his old Hogwarts
professors. I could join you.
She offered. No, I'm afraid he will only
catch a second wind in his sails if he sees you.
Would you mind waiting with your father while I extract her?
She followed his eye line to where Mr. Weasley had taken
refuge at a nearby table. Hermione agreed, and Draco
deposited her in the care of her father, who seemed more than
happy to see her. It will be your turn next,
Hermione. He smiled softly, his eyes
watching Luna greeting the guests with her new husband.
Three daughters married in a single season.
Most fathers would be thrilled to achieve such a feat.
Are you not thrilled, Father? Hermione could sense the sorrow
he harboured. To lose so much laughter in my
home? No, I'm quite saddened to know I
will no longer share my days with you. 3 Mr. Weasley
admitted. I do, however, take comfort that
you have all chosen well for yourselves.
Hermione hummed in agreement and let the comfortable silence fall
between them. It had been easy to see from the
beginning that Luna and Mr. Sabini had shared similar
temperaments. Even Jinny and Mr. Potter
possessed the same wildness that ultimately led to their
elopement. For Hermione, her heart was not
so easily won, but hard earned. She and Draco had taken the most
time to fall in love, but it was the challenges they overcame
that assured her they were well suited.
Draco's ability to grow and change only further convinced
her of his affections, finding it possible to offer her heart
in return after learning the lengths he would go in order to
safeguard it. After a few minutes of leaving
her to ponder while she watched Draco dance with his mother, her
father spoke again and offered her something new to think
about. Mr. Malfoy refused to accept
your dowry. He wants me to allow you to
decide what becomes of it. When Hermione said nothing in
her confusion, he continued. I can place it in an account in
Gringotts for you, but it will be nothing to the money you will
receive as the new Missus Malfoy.
Or if there is a worthy 'cause that you would like me to donate
it to, I could give it away. Neither of those options sounded
particularly appealing to Hermione.
It felt wrong to hoard it in a vault where she would soon
possess more Galleons than she could spend in a lifetime.
On the other hand, throwing away the money the Weasleys had
placed aside for her after all these years, even to a good
cause, was too unfathomable to even consider, especially when
those galleons could go towards the happiness of her sisters.
I would rather you split between Priscilla and Charlie.
She replied after a pause to deliberate add it to their
dowries to hopefully allow them to attract a husband of
appropriate standing. Hermione would not be surprised
if Priscilla and Charlie were noticed by more prominent
Wizards following the weddings of three of their sisters to
gentlemen in the Wizenkamot. She trusted her father to weed
out any upstarts that sort them out, but a larger dowry could
only aid them going forward. And if, Merlin forbid, something
did befall her father before they were married, that money
would help ensure they were looked after.
That is quite generous of you, Hermione.
I can't believe I didn't consider it sooner, but then
again, the decision was always yours to make.
Very well, I shall travel to Gringotts next week and make the
changes to the accounts and then inform the girls once it is
done. She opened her mouth to reply
but lost her train of thought as she caught sight of Draco
speaking with Mr. Nott and Daphne across the room.
Mr. Nott's cheerful disposition was missing, replaced by a
nervous energy as he fidgeted with his cravat while Draco
whispered to him and Daphne looked on with concern.
Drako removed something from the inner pocket of his coat and
held it out to Mr. Knott. The object was small enough that
Hermione could not discern what it was from this distance as the
wizard accepted it and placed it within his own pocket.
Just as Hermione thought to cross the tent to join them in
hopes of better understanding the strange affair, the three
split apart. Mr. Knott headed out the back of
the exit of the tent in the direction of the greenhouse,
while Daphne and Draco walked towards where Lady Greengrass
was glaring at her fellow guests, with Astoria sitting
dutifully at her side. It was obvious that Lady
Greengrass had not wanted to attend, but her absence would
have raised eyebrows and drawn unwanted attention.
While she had already received an invitation to Mr. Sabini's
wedding before her deplorable stunt, Hermione would not be
surprised if Narcissa had ensured the owl delivering the
invitation to her and Draco's wedding somehow got lost along
the way. It was too bad a story and
Daphne would not be permitted to attend without the witches their
chaperone, but such was the fate of all unmarried ladies.
When the pair reached their table, Daphne took her seat
while Draco addressed the green grass matriarch and her
daughter. Lady Greengrass's posture was
stiff and unforgiving as he spoke, but Astoria listened with
polite interest. Draco offered his hand to the
young witch, and after a moment of hesitation, Astoria took it
and rose to join him on the dance floor.
Hermione wondered what had led to Draco's sudden need to
abandon her for Astoria. Perhaps it was an olive branch
to Lady Greengrass to restore the peace, but she wasn't
certain it would be enough, seeing how the older witch
continued to shoot daggers at his back during his retreat.
She watched as Daphne drew Lady Greengrass's attention away from
her daughter, and when Hermione turned back to look for Draco
and Astoria, she had somehow managed to lose them among the
crowd of revellers. Her curiosity turning to
concern, she could no longer sit idly without answers.
She bid farewell to her father and set off in the direction she
had seen them heading, scanning for a head of blonde hair among
the guests. She had just neared the back of
the tent when she saw Draco re enter from where she'd seen Mr.
Not disappear only a few moments prior.
He spotted her easily and rushed to join her and Draco.
Where is Astoria? She demanded his approach.
If all goes to plan she'll be in Scotland in 10 minutes.
He replied as he pulled her back out onto the dance floor just as
the next song began. And we will need to be seen by
as many people as possible in the meantime.
Scotland. Hermione hissed as Draco
accidentally stepped on her toes when she failed to move out of
the way in time. Yes, and keep your voice down.
Lady Greengrass can't know before she has had the chance to
leave with Theo. The destination in combination
with the witch's travelling companion being an unwed wizard,
LED Hermione's feet to falter again as she came to the only
logical conclusion. They are eloping now.
It was a risky endeavour with so many witnesses and if they were
caught, the scandal could sour Luna's wedding.
The brightest witch of your age. Draco said with a nod.
Daphne got word to Theo earlier this week that Lady Greengrass
arranged for Astoria to marry Gregory Goyle.
He is a drunk whose only talent is his ability to take orders
from someone meaner than him. I am certain he would do
whatever Lady Greengrass tells him in exchange for marrying her
daughter. Hermione had not heard the name
of the wizard, but if Lady Greengrass had selected him to
keep control of the family seat, his character was likely
questionable. Draco's answer did not address
her concerns about the timing, however.
Must it be now? Is Mr. Sabini aware of your
scheming during his wedding? It was his idea.
Jaco replied after another spin. And he discussed it with your
sister before the ceremony. This was their best shot for
success. But why not tell me?
I felt I had to keep you in the dark to maintain your innocence.
The plan had been to leave you with your father until it was
over, seeing as Victoria has a particular habit of pointing
fingers. She understood his intentions to
protect her had been genuine, but she still did not enjoy
being left in the dark. In the future, I would like to
have been informed. Do you expect the need for us to
facilitate any more elopements? He asked with a raised brow.
Next you will tell me your sister Charlotte plans to escape
to Romania to study Dragons. Oh, hush.
Hermione rolled her eyes. Don't give her any ideas.
Draco smirked before returning to a more serious countenance.
Well, the next time we have a friend in need, I will be sure
to include you in our plotting. Thank you.
After another rotation, Hermione's thoughts settled back
on Astoria and Mr. Knott. Concern for her friend once
again occupied her mind. Will Mr. Knott be a good husband
to her? While Hermione found him
amiable, it still pained her to think of a story of being forced
to choose such a drastic option out of desperation.
Seeing as how he's been in love with her for years, I can think
of no gentleman who would treat her better.
The conviction in Draco's statement helped alleviate her
heartache for the witch. Surely if he loved her, they
would find some way to make it work.
Hermione noted it was Daphne who contacted Theo for his help and
she doubted she would act without knowing her sister's
feelings toward the wizard at least had been positive.
That dance concluded and Hermione spotted 2 individuals
she had hoped to introduce. Perhaps she would concoct and
carry out her own skiing with Draco's assistance before the
cake was cut. Draco.
She whispered conspiratorially. Can you fetch Pansy and meet me
by the punch stand? I believe I promised her an
introduction to Mr. Longbottom. She may have mentioned that.
He smirked when he saw the wizard in question.
Let us hope he is made of sternest stuff than most Wizards
if you intend to match him with Pansy.
He gave her a wink before slipping off to complete his
task as Hermione closed the distance between herself and the
wizard. Mr. Longbottom?
Hermione greeted with a curtsy. Miss Granger?
His expression broke into a huge grin.
I hear congratulations are in order.
I am gone for a year only to return to find all my favorite
dancing partners and married or engaged.
She was fairly confident that he had grown a few inches in the
time he had been away, and his face had lost the last of its
childlike shape, leaving him looking somewhat rugged after
his time abroad. Perhaps you shouldn't have been
gone so long then, She jested. It seemed to have all worked out
for you 3 though. He shrugged.
Where is that Wizard of yours, anyway?
I'm interested in meeting the gentleman who managed to earn
your affection. I hope you're referring to me.
Draco came to stand next to her, with Pansy on his other side.
Draco Malfoy. Neville Longbottom.
The wizard shook hands, and Hermione caught Mr. Longbottom's
eyes flashed to Pansy. And you are, miss.
He reached out to take her hand, bringing it up to brush his lips
across her knuckles. Pansy's cheeks turned the
brightest shade of pink. My dear friend, Miss Pansy
Parkinson. Hermione spoke up.
She is Mr. Sabini's sister. Mr. Longbottom had not looked
away from her. You are just as lovely as the
flower. He complimented.
Miss Parkinson, it would please me greatly to have your next
dance. Hermione watched her friend fall
completely for his charm. I would be delighted, Mr.
Longbottom. Pansy said after recovering her
ability to speak. Without another word or glance
at Hermione or Draco, the pair set off in the direction of the
dance floor. Well, I would say that went
well. Draco said before they both
broke out in a fit of laughter. I had thought they might be
amiable, but I underestimated them both.
Hermione said once she quelled her giggling.
Shall we take bets on how long their courtship lasts?
I have a rule against betting against my future wife, but
something tells me that he might have a reason to lay claim to
the entirety of her dance card at our wedding.
Draco predicted. Hermione agreed with his
assessment. If Mr. Longbottom was as smitten
as he appeared, Pansy should prepare to have every service in
her bed, chambers covered in flowers tomorrow morning and the
entire drawing room by the afternoon.
Draco escorted her as they made their way to meander through the
crowd, greeting guests and acquaintances along the way.
They had just left the company of Mr. and Missus Diggory when
Hermione encountered Lavender and Cousin Ron.
The witches embraced while the wizard shook hands.
Cousin Ron appeared more relaxed around Draco than he had been
during their initial interactions at Green Cross
Grove. Lavender wasted no time before
playfully scolding Hermione for her secrecy surrounding Draco's
first proposal. Hermione had just confirmed to
her friend the reason for Draco's letter on the last night
of her stay at Shell Cottage when they were interrupted by
Lady Greengrass. Where is Astoria?
I demand to know what you have done with her.
She screeched at Draco, drawing the attention of nearby guests.
Hermione had expected more discretion from her, but her
desperate need for control appeared to have overruled her
sense of self preservation. Lady Greengrass, surely there's
been some misunderstanding? Cousin Ron immediately attempted
to mediate. I agree.
Draco replied calmly, feigning innocence.
I left Miss Greengrass at her own request by the dessert
table. I'm sure she couldn't have
wandered too far. Lies.
I searched every inch of the wretched tent and she has
nowhere to be found. Mr. Sabini, hearing the ruckus,
walked over to join the conversation.
Lady Greengrass, what seems to be the problem?
My daughter is missing. She reiterated.
And I suspect Mr. Malfoy and his Mudblood are responsible, Draco.
Tense beside her at the slur levelled against her and
Hermione held firm to his arm, afraid he might do something
reckless in the name of her honour.
I will not allow such foul language at my wedding.
Mr. Sabini's voice was firm as he addressed her.
What evidence do you have for such a serious accusation?
I will speak how I like boy and my reputation cannot be
questioned. Miss Granger is insatiable.
It seems it was not enough to trick Mr. Malfoy into matrimony.
Now she has done the same to my precious daughter in some act of
revenge, and I demand that she be punished.
For it, certainly Draco's insistence on keeping her in the
dark felt much more reasonable. The delusional witch seemed
willing to twist the truth to fit her needs, and Hermione was
to be her scapegoat once more. Well.
Blaise said as his nostrils flared, rising to his full
height to tower over Lady Greengrass.
If you want my help finding her in my home, you will not insult
my guests or accuse them of ill intent without proof, and you
certainly won't threaten them. Lady Greengrass scoffed.
But Blaise took her silence as agreement, calling Crumsy to
search the tent grounds and the house for any sign of Astoria.
Hermione could only hope that enough time had passed that the
witch and Mr. Knott had made their escape.
The group stood off to the side of the tent, no one speaking
above a whisper while they waited.
Lady Greengrass refused to address anyone besides Mr.
Sabini and it was only to complain about how long the
search was taking. When Crumsy returned less than 5
minutes later. He was alone, but not empty
handed. Crumsy found a letter with Miss
Greengrass's handwriting addressed to her Ladyship in the
greenhouse. The elf held it out to the
matriarch, who snatched it from him with a hoof.
Though Hermione already suspected what it contained, she
still felt her breath hitch as Lady Greengrass tore it open.
She read it quickly, eyes skimming the page, her simmering
rage boiling over as she exploded on them all.
This is not to be born. Am I to be a disgraced by such
treachery? What's happened Is the letter
from your daughter, Cousin Ron inquired, seemingly worried for
the witch's health as she became more frantic.
She has absconded to Scotland with that wizard.
That scheming scoundrel must have set his sights on her when
you. She pointed at Draco.
Brought. Him to my home this spring.
Now she has debased herself and ruined the family legacy.
All that I had done and negotiated to secure her union
with the Goyles has been a wasted no, I do not believe it.
He has coerced her somehow, for I know my daughter to be a
proper young lady who would never betray me.
Astoria loves him. Daphne interjected, coming to
defend her sister's honour in her absence.
It was her choice. The only scandal is that you
denied her the chance to marry a respectable gentleman in
exchange for one of dubious character.
Do not think that she was unaware of the deal you made
with Mr. Goyle to keep your grip over the power.
You have done nothing but abuse since our father died.
Hearing Daphne's assurance that Astoria's feelings for Mr. Nott
had been reciprocated quashed all remaining hesitation she had
about the rushed affair. Now she wondered why they had
not done it sooner, if only to depose the tyrant before them.
How dare you speak to me with such defiance.
After all I have done for you these years, I should have
thrown you. Out the moment.
Your father died to save myself the.
Shame of having to. Call you my ward, you ungrateful
brat. If only enough, Victoria.
Draco's voice was low and eerily calm as he cast a silencing
charm upon the shouting. Which, Your cruelty will not be
tolerated and I will not allow the scene to continue to
interrupt the festivities. I suggest you return to Green
Grass Grove and prepare for Mr. and Missus Knott's arrival.
Theo was quite involved while working as my proxy.
He was meticulous in his efforts and I'm sure he will waste no
time combing through the Greengrass ledgers to ensure
everything is in order when he takes the mantle awarded to him
as Astoria's husband. Unable to continue her vitriol
under the charm, her eyes flashed with the realisation of
her defeat. It appeared that even while
silenced, Lady Greengrass had no intention of going quietly.
Her mouth continued to move as she silently berated the various
assembled guests, waving her arms wildly to mime out her
disapproval. When none of that proved
effective in garnering any support, the which drew her
wand, her eyes shifting from Draco and settling on Hermione
as she pointed it squarely at her chest.
The end of her wand flickered with deep Crimson sparks, and
Hermione involuntarily flinched at the pain the magic promised.
Before she could even grasp her own 1 tucked in the pocket of
her dress, a shield appeared between her and Lady Greengrass
as Draco stepped forward to further block her from the
witch's view. Cast that spell and the auras
will have to drag what is left of you to Azkaban.
Draco growled, raising his own wand against the witch.
But the spell that hit Lady Greengrass came from amongst the
throng of guests that accumulated to witness the
showdown. Not my daughter, you bitch.
Missus Weasley shouted, stepping forward.
Her mother was illuminated by the flash of purple light that
shot from her one to restrain Lady Greengrass, causing her to
lose her balance and stumble back into a nearby tower of
champagne glasses. Her fine gown was soaked as she
struggled against her binds, but no one bothered to come to her
aid. Luna floated forward in her
silver wedding dress, looking unperturbed.
Her sister was flanked by two auras who had been in attendance
as guests. Mr. Robarts and Mr. Dawlish
would be so kind to us to escort Lady Greengrass back inside the
house until the port key can be arranged to send her home.
It appears. She has made quite a mess.
Her sister's serene voice rapidly reduced the temperature
inside the tent, allowing everyone to collect themselves
as the wizard stepped forward to handle the witch.
Once in custody of the Auras, Lady Greengrass was quickly LED
out as she thrashed against her restraints.
Even with the silence and charm still in effect, she continued
to attempt to hurl whatever vitriol she had not been able to
impart in her verbal attack. The stunt only seemed to
squander what little of her dignity remained intact, and
several guests snickered as she was yanked past them.
Her initial shouting had already allowed the news of Astoria and
Mr. Nott's elopement to reach nearly all the guests before she
departed. There would be no ability for
the witch to cover up the scandal, and something told
Hermione that that had been part of the plan all along.
Though perhaps the spectacle had gotten somewhat out of hand.
The crowd watched her go, and only when she was gone did Draco
finally lower the shield he had conjured in front of them.
Luna and Blaise stepped forward together to address the crowd,
making an effort to calm their guests and signal a return to
the planned festivities. As the guests began dispersing
and a musician resumed their playing, Missus Weasley rushed
to Hermione's side, scanning her for any discernible injury.
My dear girl. Are you hurt?
Her mother fussed over her. Oh, to.
See that wretched witch pull her wand on you?
But it was lucky that you were. There, Mr. Malfoy, such a
gentleman. You are to defend her, of course
I would expect nothing less, but.
As a mother. I feel assured that my daughter
will be in good. Hands.
Something about her mother's flattery felt more genuine than
the past instances. She could see the clear relief
on her face upon realizing Hermione was all right.
I am fine, Mother. Hermione consoled the witch.
Between you and Ray, Mr. Malfoy, I did not have to lift a finger.
Thank you. While Hermione offered her
appreciation, she glanced around to see Narcissa and Lavender
comforting Daphne while Cousin Ron approached Draco About what
you said regarding Mr. Knott's desire to review the green grass
ledgers upon his return. He spoke softly.
I have been keeping them at Shell Cottage since becoming the
seats proxy. The records will be delivered
once the happy couple returns, and I'll be more than willing to
answer whatever questions he has during the transition.
His cordiality and grace had her mind, his heart aching for her
cousin, seeming to earn Draco's sympathies as well.
Theo will be pleased to hear it. Though I must say I am sorry
that Astoria's elopement will have such a negative impact on
you and your employment. Don't fret over my
circumstances, Sir. I will not be destitute without
her Ladyship's generosity. My uncle's just convinced me to
assist him in matters pertaining to the Weasley seat.
I had been prepared to tender my resignation to Lady Greengrass
upon my return to Kent, but now the task will be unnecessary.
Hermione had known that her father had grown weary of his
endless duties while acting as Head of the House, but
discovering that he had sought out his nephew to help with the
burden filled her with joy. The arrangement would benefit
both parties, demonstrating the trust built between the Wizards
since last year. The announcer interrupted to
signal the final dance before the guests would make their way
inside to the dining room for a formal dinner.
Draco raised a brow in silent question, and despite the chaos
from before, she wished for nothing more than to take
advantage of another opportunity to be close to him.
The final dance was one of Hermione's favourites and it
just so happened to be the same as their first dance.
She shared with the gentleman. I'm having a sense of Deja vu.
She remarked as they took their first steps.
As am I, but this time I am feeling much more confident in
your affections. His smile proved that to be true
and Hermione mirrored the expression.
I was trying so desperately to loathe you.
She admitted. You were so vexing and never
saying what you meant. The comment earned another laugh
from him. My sincerest apologies, my
darling. I found it was impossible to be
honest with you when I could not even be honest with myself at
the time. In hindsight, it was easy to see
how hard he had been trying to connect with her.
Draco sought her out at every opportunity, prompting her into
discussions to learn more about her.
It had taken until her arrival at Malfoy Manor to reciprocate
his curiosity. The song ended and the remaining
guests shuffled off in the direction of the house.
Hermione felt in no rush as she placed her arm in his to make
the trek up the path. Well, now that we are both being
truthful with each other, Draco, I must confess that even if I
had had a time Turner, I would not want to change a moment of
our story after seeing how it all worked out in the end.
Each moment together was not one she was willing to give up.
He was not the same gentleman she had encountered at their
first introduction, but then neither was she.
Their story was no fairy tale, but one about overcoming their
pride and challenging their prejudices.
Draco looked down at her with adoration.
Oh my darling, this is only the beginning.