Love Undeserved

Hermione knew she wanted to stay at Hogwarts over the summer holiday to consider her options for furthering her education. She had two major issues that she contended with. One, both her parents were financially strapped after her father hurt his back playing rugby two years before. The family relied on a single income and was living paycheck to paycheck. Two, there was no available mentorship with a Defense against the Dark Arts master. Hogwarts always had a bit of trouble locating capable DADA professors and finding one to apprentice under was near impossible. Hermione knew that she could not choose another path for her education. She felt that pursuing the DADA course was right. She felt it in her blood.

A week after graduation, McGonagall approached her for a meeting regarding a possible apprenticeship, but her face held a grave secret. Hermione knew she was not going to like something about this arrangement. As she made her way toward Dumbledore’s former office and approached, she spoke, “lemon drop” and was granted entrance. McGonagall was sitting at her desk, almost wringing her hands. Hermione had never seen her this nervous.
“Hermione dear, please sit down.” She did so cautiously.

McGonagall continued, “As you are aware, I have found a possible apprenticeship for you in the DADA field. You and I both know this type of position is almost impossible to come by. I hope after you hear me out you will weigh the options and agree that an acceptance in the only viable option. Firstly, due to your miraculous ability and the fact that you could be one of the few DADA masters in the wizarding world today.”

McGonagall paused to gain her composure and eased a shaky breath out, “The master that you would be tutoring with has extensive knowledge in the subject and you would be able to complete the apprenticeship in three years time. As we have already discussed the positive points of your acceptance, let us look at the negatives. This master has been connected as a strong supporter of Voldemort and was most likely a Deatheater. His knowledge of the DADA subject comes primarily from using dark magic as an offense against the weak and muggleborn. Even though he sounds most disagreeable, he has vowed to treat you professionally and to tutor you gratis….”

Hermione looked puzzled, “You mean he will tutor me for free?”

“Yes Hermione,” McGonagall continued, “I imagine the rumor of your ability has reached his ears and he would like to better understand your gift. Before you say no to his proposal, I beg of you to not only think about the rewards of a DADA mastership, but to discuss with the master himself what he expects of you and what you can expect of him. You could come to a trust, an understanding and his past or reputation could be put aside for the greater picture, Hermione…”
Hermione was absolutely dying with curiosity. McGonagall acted as if she was sending her to Voldemort himself for this chance at learning. Hermione began, “Headmaster, please, who is this master you speak of…..”

Just as McGonagall opened her mouth to speak his name, in a burst of dramatic flame rose a looming figure, unaffected from the floo powder. In his most austere voice, a blond, blue steel-eyed figure spoke, “Lucius Malfoy, Ms. Granger” even before her mind registered recognition.

It was at this moment, due to the overwhelming offer and the appearance of the supposed master and her vilest enemy, that Hermione Granger made a deep gasp and fainted onto the most exquisitely embroidered carpet.