Chapter Text
The common room was a cacophony of hushed whispers as Hermione, her cheeks still flushed from the chilly autumn air, fled the room, the forbidden item stashed securely out of view. It felt like a betrayal, a flag flown in enemy territory, yet it also held a weight she couldn’t deny, the weight of her feelings for Draco.
Now in the girl's bathroom, Hermione leaned over one of the sinks, her reflection blurry in the misted mirror, the hot water stinging her hands as she scrubbed away the remnants of a rendezvous that had felt both exhilarating and terrifying.
The door creaked open and Ginny’s voice cut through the anxious silence, “Hermione? You alright?”
Hermione took a deep breath, the steam swirling around her, blurring the edges of her vision. She studied her best friend in the mirror. Tell her or no? Hermione sighed. "I don't know, Ginny," she admitted, her voice beginning to crack slightly. "I feel like I've just walked into a different world."
Ginny leaned against the doorframe, her red braid swaying gently. "Well, you kind of did. Walking in with that scarf was quite the statement." A teasing smile touched her lips. “It’s definitely got people talking.”
Hermione rolled her eyes, finally turning to face her best friend. "It wasn't exactly intentional," she muttered, a wave of doubt washing over her.
“Come on, ‘Mione,” Ginny said, pushing herself off the door frame to stand next to Hermione at the sink, “It’s you. You always make bold choices. It’s exciting! People always doubt you at first then ten minutes later they claim they always had your back when they realise you're a genius.” She nudged Hermione playfully. “Besides,” she added in a conspiratorial whisper, “It did look rather dashing on you. Now, let’s go get some food. You’ll feel better with a plate full of shepherd’s pie.”
Hermione couldn't help but smile, a small flicker of warmth chasing away the chill of her doubts. Ginny was exactly what she needed, someone who saw past the scandal and straight to her heart. They walked together towards the Great Hall, the weight of the Slytherin scarf still present stashed snugly in her bag.
The Great Hall was as loud and bustling as ever, the usual sounds of chatter and clinking silverware filling the air. But as they sat at the Gryffindor table, Hermione felt every pair of eyes on her.
As the dinner progressed, Hermione noticed a subtle shift in the way she scanned the hall. Her gaze kept drifting towards the Slytherin table, trying to find the familiar silver-blonde hair. She met his eyes across the crowded space several times, a connection so strong Hermione was unable to look away for too long.
At last, when dessert was done, she saw Draco nod once, a barely perceptible movement of his head, and she knew exactly what he meant. He wanted her to follow him.
Her stomach fluttered with mixed feelings – anticipation, nerves, a touch of defiance. She excused herself from Ginny, promising to be back soon, and walked towards the doors, ignoring the curious gazes that followed her. She found him waiting in the corridor, his posture relaxed, but his eyes holding an intensity that made her breath catch. He took her hand, the touch sending a shiver down her spine, and led her towards the Room of Requirement.
The room shimmered into existence, revealing a space far removed from the typical cold stone walls of Hogwarts. Before them lay a plush, comfortable room with deep armchairs and soft lighting, the air filled with the scent of sandalwood and old books. Draco turned to her, a playful smirk dancing on his lips.
“I have something for you,” he said.
He reached into his pocket, pulling out a small, velvet box. He opened it, revealing a delicate silver chain with an emerald pendant surrounded by diamonds. The gem pulsed with a soft, inner light, and Hermione knew, with a certainty that settled deep in her bones, that it was more than just a piece of jewellery.
"It’s called the Serpent’s Eye," Draco said, his voice a low murmur. "It’s a family heirloom, meant for… someone special." His eyes met hers, and Hermione saw a depth of emotion she had never witnessed before.
He carefully took the chain, his fingers brushing against her neck, sending a jolt of electricity through her. He sat down on the plush sofa, pulling her onto his lap as he fastened the clasp. His fingers were warm against her skin. Then he pressed a tentative kiss to her earlobe.
Hermione closed her eyes, relishing the moment. She snuggled close to him, her head resting on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.
"It's beautiful, Draco," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "Thank you."
He wrapped his arms around her, holding her tight. “You are beautiful, Hermione,” he said, his lips brushing her hair. “And now you're mine.”