Commencement

June 2024

As Hermione sat in the audience gathered in the expansive Great Hall at Hogwarts, she wondered at the new graduation tradition for seventh years. In a ritual neatly lifted from the muggle world, the excited graduates marched down the center aisle adorned in black dress robes with distinctive stoles hung around their necks. Symbolizing the hard-won house unity and paid for with the blood of her graduating class, Hermione admired the green, blue, scarlet and yellow Hogwarts blazon affixed to the drape around her daughter Rose's neck. Of course, Rose's stole was even more exclusive, being that Rose had been Hogwarts' most recent Head Girl. Walking proudly next to her was the years Head Boy, Scorpius Malfoy.

Hermione shook her head at that unlikely friendship. While she was privy to Rose's thoughts and concerns for her close friend Scorpius, Hermione doubted Rose's father either knew or cared. Since she only spoke with Ron Weasley regarding the needs or best interests on their children, and there was no way that Rose's friendship fit either of those two categories at present, Hermione doubted Ron was aware that Rose considered Scorpius a true friend. So unless one of the Potter's offspring talked, Hermione looked determinedly at Al Potter who was striding past at the moment; maybe she could get through the afternoon without that particular secret coming to light.

The audience settled down as the students took their seats and Professor Smythe-White began the commencement. Hermione's thoughts wandered as the faculty sang the praises of the graduating class. What would have been said of her classmates by Hogwarts' teachers? What was it like to attend secondary school without the constant threat of a homicidal maniac? Hermione smirked, acknowledging it was out of the realm of her imagination to envision such sedate school years. Scanning the audience Hermione spotted Ron sitting with Harry and Ginny, no surprise there, while out of the corner of her eye she noticed the distinctive white blonde that could only be Malfoy. Draco was seated a few rows ahead of her and in the middle of the seating row. Hermione grinned as she realized that it was only by craning their necks around a rather ghastly hat on an elderly witch would the Potter-Weasley party be able to see Draco from their seats. Smart man thought Hermione with admiration.

As Rose and Scorpius rose to give their joint Head address to the student body, Hermione heard a muffled "ferret" from Ron's quadrant of the audience. Gritting her teeth at his perpetual immaturity, Hermione smiled at both young people in encouragement. Rose's smile faltered only briefly before beginning her discourse on personal growth beyond academics. Hermione suspected that the people the speech was most aimed at would remain patently oblivious to its intent. As Rose looked to Scorpius to deliver his remarks, meant to bookend hers by expounding on the topic of development of personal ethics and values; Hermione could clearly discern that their relationship was more that a purely functional Head partnership. She fervently hoped that their mutual admiration and respect wasn't as clearly detectable to others as it was to her.

The audience was rapt as Scorpius and Rose spoke their final quote in unison, "Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, and knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful." The Great Hall rang with applause for the Head Girl and Boy, bringing tears to Hermione's eyes. Regardless of all the turmoil of her life and the hardships endured, Rose had understood the basic values Hermione had endeavored to instill; perhaps to pass them on to her friend Scorpius.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Hermione milled about on the Hogwarts lawn, prettily festooned with flowers and plants from Neville's greenhouses. Cabaret tables, a light buffet and innocuous background music filled the area. Having heartily greeted Rose and Scorpius and congratulated them on a most perceptive Head address, Hermione was currently observing the multitude of happy families enjoying the celebration.

"Are you hiding over here?" inquired Neville.

"No never, just having a strategic concealment," replied Hermione. "Things with Ron are always tense, and I do not want that to be my legacy to Rose on her graduation day."

"I'm sure Rose sees the truth of your relationship with Ron. Has she ever said anything..." asked Neville.

"No, no she didn't want the particulars. It was enough that my Mum told her that the expectations around wives in the wizarding world wouldn't be tolerated in the muggle world. That, considering my parents have always been very supportive on my life here, told her that Ron crossed an unforgivable line," responded Hermione. "Now Hugo is another matter. I am very thankful he is studying abroad at Beauxbatons. He constantly was drawn into the conflict with the Weasleys."

"I'm surprised that Molly would allow her grandchild to become involved in something that was so adult. I remember Harry always complaining that Molly was the main one stopping him from finding out what was really going on," Neville commented.

"Yes, ironic isn't it? I was rather disappointed in Molly myself. But it was clear from the moment I divorced Ron that I became the pariah of the Weasley clan, not to mention the majority of the wizarding world," groused Hermione. "It's a wonder that Harry is able to maintain any sort of contact with me at all."

"Now you know Harry, he is loyal to his friends. Regardless whether it is a popular opinion or not," Neville stated firmly.

"Well I am certainly in the 'not popular' category these days," chuckled Hermione.

Chagrined, Neville began to answer. Hermione simply hugged her old friend and stated with a wink, "I'm off to try the punch, perhaps it has been spiked."

As Hermione wove through the crowd, she received mostly polite stares but was not surprised when Rosetta Prewett and Millicent Bulstrode both turned away in a deliberate cut. As that behavior had ceased to have any effect on Hermione long ago, she thought little of their actions. All she truly cared about anymore was the effect her 'reputation' had on Rose and Hugo.

Arriving at the punch bowl and finding to her delight that she could discern the sweet aftertaste of some fruit liqueur that signified that the liquid libations had indeed been spiked, Hermione found a seat behind one of Neville's plants. A few moments later her sanctuary was disturbed by the arrival of perhaps the only other person that was as unwelcome as she, Draco Malfoy.

"Hello Granger," Draco drawled as he seated himself beside Hermione.

"Malfoy" she responded with a twitch of a smile.

"You seem to have developed an unnatural obsession with plants," Draco said starting the conversation.

"Not at all, Malfoy. I just prefer the tranquility of these Hogwarts plant as opposed to conflict on Rose's day. And Scorpius' I would add."

"Ah, great minds think alike. For I prefer to allow Scorpius, and Rose, to bask in their accolades without the undue attention my presence brings to the situation."

They sat silently sipping their beverages.

Abruptly Hermione turned to Draco and stated, "I am sorry about Daphne's death and unlike the rest of the fools in wizarding Britain I know you had nothing to do with it. It was advanced ovarian cancer, correct?"

Draco's eyes clouded momentarily as he peered off across the grass. "Extra-ovarian primary peritoneal carcinoma actually. While we were living in Bangkok she became ill and their wizarding community there does not have a hospital on par with St. Mungo's. By the time we came here for treatment she was too far advanced for wizard or muggle intervention."

"You sought a muggle diagnosis and treatment? I must say I am surprised," returned Hermione. "Although I should not carry that particular piece of baggage any further as I know what a fine young wizard Scorpius is."

"Believe me you were mild in reaction compared to Daphne's family when they learned what I had done. I think that's where the rumors of my involvement in her death came from - they were violently against any 'muggle taint' to Daphne's medical care. Too bad the tumor was already the size of a cricket ball and the cancer was utterly metastasized."

"It must have been very difficult for you and Scorpius, I am sincerely sorry for you loss," murmured Hermione.

Looking directly into Hermione's eyes, Draco nodded, "It was terrible to watch her deteriorate. And then to have Daph's family insinuate I did something untoward. I shielded Scorpius as best as I could but Merlin only knows what was said when I wasn't around."

"Well from what Rose wrote in her letters I would say not a word was uttered in her presence. I clearly remember her disgust with the gossip mongering. I am glad that she could be Scorpius' ally," replied Hermione. "No child deserves that evil in their childhood."

"But we experienced much more, did we not? Compared to our Hogwarts years, Scorpius and Rose had a cakewalk. No bigoted lunatics trying to build their empires on the blood of their classmates and their families. No house hatred as we experienced it. No basilisks, no Umbridge and her blasted quill, no killing the headmaster-"

Hermione interrupted Draco, "You did not kill the headmaster. What good choice could you have made? Muggles have a saying, you were between a rock and a hard place, there was no option that wasn't heinous."

"Thank you for your defense but unfortunately individuals like your ex-husband think otherwise and they are in the majority. If I am already guilty of monstrous crimes as a child, murdering one's spouse is but a small leap," stated Draco.

"Well Ron continues to have the emotional and intellectual range of a teaspoon. I'd thought he had a breakthrough but it just amounted to what I'd call a snake oil pitch. All talk but no substance. Imagine telling me that I needed to be home more with the Rose and Hugo while he and Harry gallivant around the globe searching for dark wizards. Wasn't being a member of the Wizengamot just as important for reform as their cowboy tactics?"

"Is that what was the straw that broke the camels back?" asked Draco. "I often wondered what it would take for you to reach the point where you said no more."

"You wondered? Why ever did you care?"

"Well even a dolt like me could see you made good on your potential to be the smartest witch of our age. Pity your working in the muggle world now. What are you doing?" Draco inquired.

"I'm a solicitor, I still wanted to be able to use my court experience from the Wizengamot. And business law is my specialty. I've quite a few wizarding clients who have diversified to the muggle corporate world. Of course they won't acknowledge me in the wizarding world." Hermione informed Draco as she leveled her gaze on Anthony Goldstein.

"So. Do you think we are nothing but bitter losers in the fight against the patriarchal wizarding world?" asked Draco.

Hermione burst out laughing at the outrageousness of Draco Malfoy posing that question. "Whenever did you become a feminist, Malfoy?"

"I'm not a feminist per se but Scorpius gave me a book by Simone de Beauvior. It was a very interesting read, both in regards to patriarchy and about gender roles," Draco appraised her.

Hermione's eyebrows had nearly ascended to her hairline. "You're having a go at me aren't you? Because I can not imagine a world where Draco Malfoy reads feminist essays."

Holding his hands in supplication Draco simply shrugged. "It was an interesting read and I perceived quite a few similarities between the wizarding world and the world of Ms. de Beauvior. Anyway Scorpius loved it so I gave it a whirl."

As Hermione digested Draco's last comment, Rose and Scorpius exploded into the secluded seating area. "Mum, I was wondering where you had gone off to. Hiding from Dad and Aunt Ginny?"

"I am most certainly not!" huffed Hermione. "I just thought you and the general populace might appreciate the day not ending in either shouts or dramatic displays of high temper."

"Mum, Dad promised he'd be on his best behavior."

"And unfortunately Rose I know exactly how far that goes. So I will remain unobtrusive for all our sakes. You go and enjoy yourselves. Draco and I were having a perfectly good chat prior to you arrival," Hermione stated firmly.

"Yes, you could say Hermione and I were have a wonderful catch-up. So do not worry about us on your special day. This is a day for celebration. I'll be wandering down to Hogsmeade shortly anyway, Scorpius. I'll meet you at the train station tomorrow at noon, we can apparate home from there," finished Draco as he hugged his son.

Hermione embraced Rose and sent her on her way. "I suppose I should be going too. Would you fancy some company on your walk to Hogsmeade?"

"I would enjoy it immensely," Draco answered.

"Then let's be on our way."


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Hermione was pleasantly surprised that both she and Draco had chosen to stay off the beaten path at a rooming house off High Street in Hogsmeade. There they changed into casual muggle clothes and headed over to the Hogs Head Tavern. It hadn't change much; perhaps the glasses were a bit cleaner as younger members of the Order would stop by more frequently after the Battle of Hogwarts. Aberforth was still the proprietor although he had taken on a cook after the war. Hermione suspected that the widow who put together the hearty fare had needed income more than Aberforth needed a cook.

As they entered the dark tavern, Hermione was gratified to see that there was only a scattering of people inside. Dodging the Weasleys that afternoon had been more tiring that she would like to admit. Perhaps at forty-five years old she should try to make amends. But the price that would be expected from her would be too high she suspected.

Sliding into a booth and after ordering some ale and shepherd's pie, Draco broke the companionable silence.

"So what do you really think of this friendship between our children?" asked Draco.

"I think they're quite a bit smarter than we were," answered Hermione. "First they were both sorted into Ravenclaw, second they haven't gotten involved in all the Potter worship like we did, and lastly they are real friends. Friends based on mutual interests and admiration rather than fear and power as during our time."

"I must say I was rather shocked that Scorpius was sorted into Ravenclaw. My mum just laughed and said the Malfoy family was spinning in their crypts. Although I bet it was no picnic to champion Rose in the Weasley clan. Can't say as I remember any of them being sorted outside Gryffindor since the turn of the 19th century," Draco remarked. "But I think you are right. Without the stress and strife that was an indelible part of our time at Hogwarts; Rose and Scorpius have had the chance to be children and to follow their own paths. I envy them."

"It was so difficult with Ron. He has never let go of the old hatreds. As you no doubt heard at the ceremony today," Hermione muttered as she rubbed her face. "I always tried to be strong and instill in the children the need to allow people to show themselves to you - not assume that because of their looks or their parentage you knew them. I think I succeeded with Rose, Hugo is another story."

"With the different values you and Weasleby have it's a miracle you and he stayed together as long as you did. And I know you succeeded with Rose. And Hugo is studying abroad so there's hope for him also. Did you ever think that studying abroad is the easiest way to develop your own values? Hugo can be off on his own and then come back fully formed, just like Venus rising from the ocean," Draco said with a chuckle.

Hermione smiled back as their food arrived. They both dug into the delicious and hot entrees. Without their asking another round of ales were delivered. Draco looked questioningly at Hermione as a shadow fell over the table.

Hermione murmured, "Hallo Harry," while Draco shook Harry's hand.

"Well that's not a very joyful greeting, Hermione. And good evening to you Malfoy," replied Harry. "Maybe if I let you know that Ginny's not around I'll get a warmer welcome."

Rising and giving her friend a hug, Hermione chided, "Well you know how she feels about me. And I feel like I bent over backwards to accommodate the Weasley family today. Rose accused me of hiding behind a fern for Merlin's sake."

"So did you?" asked Harry.

"I would rather think of it as a strategic ruse to save the peace," retorted Hermione. "No child needs their family at loggerheads on their graduation day. On another point, how was Al's celebration?"

"I think it was more interesting for the elders as opposed to Al and his friends. They've all gone to that new pub out High Street past Dervish & Banges. What's it called again?" wondered Harry.

"The Dugbog, I believe. It's known for it's rather nondescript outside and rather sharp and sassy interior design," answered Draco. "I believe Scorpius labeled it a meat market."

"So Al's out trolling for witches is he? I thought he and Kali Patil were fairly serious," remarked Hermione.

"Rumor has it that there is a reason Ms. Patil is named after the Dark Mother; her ability to personify creation as well as destruction is something Al's come to fear. They currently are in an 'off' phase of their turbulent relationship," Harry concluded.

"It's too young to decide who you are going to spend the rest of your life with anyway. Al needs to get out on his own and figure out who he really is. What are his plans now that he's done with Hogwarts?" inquired Hermione.

"I'm just trying to get him out of the house. With all the coddling he gets from Molly and Ginny he'll never want to leave," groused Harry. "How are you getting Rose out of the house?"

"Both Rose and Scorpius are transitioning to uni in the fall. They've both been accepted at Oxford. So Rose & I are going to travel this summer with my parents and then she'll be at the Burrow for three weeks in August. I'll be moving her into her dorms after that."

"I think Oxford won't know what hit it with the those two descending upon the school," smirked Draco. "By the way I've hired movers to move Scorpius, let me send them round to your place for Rose's things. Then we can move them in and see them properly settled."

"Thank you Draco, I'll be glad for the help with the heavy lifting."

"What about Ron?" asked Harry.

At Draco's nervous expression Hermione responded, "What about Ron? He doesn't think Rose should go to uni so all he's done is pout about it. Molly's not helping either, if she's said it once she's said it at least fifty times that all a woman really needs is a MRS degree. I see Ginny has taken her advice."

While Draco attempted to convert his laughter into coughing, Harry frowned at Hermione. "That's a bit low don't you think? I never have said Gin couldn't do more than stay at home?"

"But did you push her to do something else Potter? With a mother like that don't you think she'd need a bit of a gentle shove out of the house? As I recall Ginerva played a mean game of Quidditch at Hogwarts," Draco prodded.

"I didn't see Daphne leaving every morning to catch the tube to work Malfoy," sniped Harry.

Stepping in before the thunderous look on Hermione's face translated to a tirade of comments, Draco calmly stated, "That's because Daphne was the Chief Operating Officer at Malfoy Enterprises. We usually took the tube together."

Stepping into the lull in the conversation Hermione faced Harry, "I am disappointed that you would speak so ill of Daphne, Harry. You know what Draco & I both said was nothing more than the truth. Don't get angry with us when you are disappointed with yourself."

"I'm sorry Hermione and to you too Malfoy. I shouldn't bark at either of you when I not satisfied with my household."

"Apology accepted, now go back to Ginny and take advantage of the fact that you are in Hogsmeade with no children about. We're still on for dinner for the first Thursday, right?"

"Yes, want to try that new curry place that went in the street over from your flat?"
Harry asked as he kissed Hermione farewell.

"Yes, I've been dying to go but not found the time," Hermione responded as Harry clasped Draco's outstretched hand.

"Have a good evening," Harry threw over his shoulder as he walked away.

"Well that has to be the most civil conversation I've had with Potter in two decades," Draco declared. "And I even took him to task."

"Harry can be reasonable, but he'll always be a bit hotheaded. Now I want to thank you for offering to send the movers in August. You've no idea how much easier that makes things. I really do appreciate the offer."

"Well, I just think if Rose and Scorpius continue with their friendship I don't see why we can't do the same. I was a misguided youth, swayed by pretentious ideas and inflexible dogma. I almost never saw the error of my ways but I am very glad I finally did. I missed out on knowing you in school but I'd like to get to know you now. What a better connection than through our children."

Hermione smiled, "I'd like that, I've enjoyed today ever so much more since I was able to spend part of it talking with you. But I must say I'm knackered. Walk with me back to Myrtle's?"

"By all means," Draco said rising. "But why by all that's holy did Mrs. Tollerbeck feel she had to name her establishment after Moaning Myrtle I'll never comprehend."


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Hermione -

The movers are scheduled to be at my townhouse at 8 am. I reckon they can be at your door by 11:30 am. Does that work for you? Scorpius and I plan on following them in my Rover. Shall we drive you and Rose to Trinity?

Draco

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Draco~

Thank you for all the assistance Saturday last. I think I completely underestimated the amount of books (not to mention clothes) Rose packed for uni. How she was planning on storing them I do not know. I could not have gotten her there without your assistance.

I am sorry Ron turned up. Stupid blighter used to be a bit more predictable. Well we did wonder how he'd take Scorpius' and Rose's friendship. I did enjoy that pained look as he tried to lift the largest box of Rose's books. But I fear that Ron's reaction to the children's friendship dulls in comparison to our own. I have never seen that particular shade of scarlet on his face before. And please thank Scorpius for getting Rose out of there before Ron lost his temper; she doesn't need to see that.

Thanks again,

Hermione

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Mum,

I am SO MAD at Dad. Why does he have to fly off the handle like that? Mr. Malfoy and Scorpius were just helping us, something HE should have been doing from the start.

Other than that spectacular start school is rather uneventful. Scorpius and I have a couple of tutorials together this term. We are deciding on projects right now.

I know you were concerned about us not using magic but it's not hard at all. Of course neither of us has done our laundry yet.

Lots of Love,
Rose

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Draco,

Of course we can meet for lunch. I am not that familiar with Solicitor Hepplewirth nor would I want to impinge on his work but I am concerned that there is indeed a vulnerability with your stocks in overseas markets if the Hong Kong constitution is challenged.

I'll see you at the Floating Lotus at 11:30 am.

Hermione

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Dad:

Trinity College is fabulous! The intellectual stimulation is constant and nurturing at the same time. Rose and I share two tutorials this term. One is Contemporary Ethical Dilemmas in Organizational Development and the other is Applied Human Relational Theory. By far they are the most difficult as all my other classes are introductory level. Those preparatory classes I complained about all summer really paid off in readiness for uni.

Yours,

Scorpius

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Mum~

I do not think it would be a bad thing to work for Mr. Malfoy. Malfoy Enterprises is huge from what Scorpius tells me. They have holdings all over the world so you would get to travel. And instead of having numerous clients all getting ready to go to court you would have one client with diverse needs that you could really dive in to working with over the long term.

Are you worried because of what Dad, Grandmother, and Aunt Ginny would say? Don't be. They will never be happy until you stay home all day and then need to come crawling back to Dad. That's SO Neanderthal! I mean really!

For what it is worth - I say go for it!

Love you,
Rose

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Dear Mr. Canterbury:


It is with great sadness that I tender my resignation with Canterbury, Walsh and Beanne. It has been a fortuitous five years with your firm and am I appreciative of the experience I have received due to my employment here.

A professional opportunity has arisen of which I must take full advantage. Please know that if this prospect had not occurred I would be honored to remain at Canterbury, Walsh and Beanne.

My final day with the firm shall be 13 November 2024. Please apprise me of an opportune time to meet to discuss the reassignment of my current caseload.


With Sincere Gratitude,

Hermione Granger

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

MEMO

To: All Staff
From: Draco Malfoy, CEO

Re: New Lead Legal Counsel

I am happy to announce the addition of Hermione Granger in the newly created position of Director of Legal Services at Malfoy Enterprises, Inc. Ms. Granger is a graduate of the prestigious University of Cambridge and has spent the last five years with the esteemed firm of Canterbury, Walsh and Beanne.

Ms. Granger brings a passion and dedication to her work that will greatly benefit Malfoy Enterprises. Her office will be located on the executive floor, room 1806, and same extension.

Please welcome Ms. Granger on her first day of employment, 18 November 2024.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Mum~

Did you know you have Scorpius Mum's old office?

Love,
Rose

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Mum~

Term ends 18 December. I would like to have Scorpius come over for the Solstice. Would it be okay if he and his dad came for our celebration?

All the other years Scorpius has gone to his grand parents while Mr. Malfoy spends Solstice at home. That's just not right! We have a beautiful flat and we could light our Yule log together, and a have a wonderful dinner. What do you say?

Lots of Love,
Rose

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Hermione:

Scorpius and I would be honored to join Rose and yourself on the Solstice as long as it is no bother. Please allow us to bring dessert and wine for the evening.

What else is that monstrous wine cellar my father was obsessed with good for?

Yours,
Draco

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Draco and Scorpius made their way up the walk to Hermione and Rose's flat. Candles were lit in every window, welcoming their approach. The crisp air, tinged with the wafting aroma of wood smoke, reminded Draco of the gentle solitude of Malfoy Manor from his early childhood. Long before Voldemort and the war he brought. Taking a deep breath he rapped Hermione's doorknocker, a rendition of a Greek goddess surrounded by an ouroborous. The dark solid brass of the knocker belied the fact that it was a recent addition to the door. Smiling to himself, he and Scorpius waited for a response. Suddenly, the rather large door swung quickly inward as Rose appeared at the threshold.

"Welcome," Rose exclaimed excitedly. "Mum's in the kitchen finishing the roast. May I get your coats?"

As Draco began to shrug off his great coat, Scorpius engulfed Rose in a hug. "Happy Holidays!" Rose gathered their coats and hung them on the coat tree in the foyer. "C'mon, we can go back to the kitchen."

"Would there be a bottle opener in the kitchen?" inquired Draco.

"Oh yes!" replied Rose. "Mum can show you where. Scorpius, can you come with me to get the glasses?"

Rose and Scorpius veered off as Draco entered the kitchen, rich with the vibrant aroma of roasting beef and vegetables.

"Hello. Glad you could come," said Hermione as she came up behind Draco carrying a carving set as well as a large serving platter.

"Do you need any help?" asked Draco.

"No. I think I have it all under control. It's no Boar's Head but it'll do," she responded with a smile. "Is that wine I see tucked under your arm? That you could open. The opener is in the drawer to the left of the sink."

"My pleasure. And thank you for your hospitality."

As Hermione removed the roast from the cook pan to rest on her counter, Draco opened the wine. As he was finishing Rose and Scorpius returned with four exquisite crystal wine glasses. Hermione continued to use a combination of muggle and wizard techniques to dish the food and levitate it into what Draco supposed was the dining room. As the last dish left the kitchen, Hermione removed the towel she had tied around her waist and announced, "The warming charm on the food is good for at least forty-five minutes. Let's relax in the lounge with your wonderful wine before we sit down to eat."

The groups withdrew to Hermione's lounge room where a fire was burning bright. The mantle was covered with fragrant boughs and ribbons. A collection of figurines was displayed on the mantle along with an assortment of candles.

"Is this your Mum's goddess collection?" Scorpius asked Rose.

"Yes, come look," she said as she pulled him closer to the fireplace.

"Goddess collection?" drawled Draco with an eyebrow raised.

Hermione chuckled. "My mother started me on it. Every year since she and I went to Glastonbury Tor while she was reading the 'Mists of Avalon' she gives me a goddess statue for my birthday. I have quite the collection now."

"Ah yes, when I read 'Mists' and realized that the Tor was what everyone was making a fuss about I was fairly shocked. I mean it is practically in my backyard," remarked Draco. "So who's in your collection?"

"Well, in alphabetical order: Artemis, Bastat, Freya, Gaia, Hecate, Isis, Kali, Lilith, Minerva, and Quan Yin. I don't think I missed any," said Hermione.

"That's quite the collection. Very diverse too."

"Yes, Mum wasn't being too subtle in her message either. Ron hated her giving the goddesses to me. I think the year he hinted she didn't need to give me anymore she gave me Kali," Hermione remembered with amusement. "You'll notice the statue is the traditional pose with Kali's foot firmly in place on Shiva's chest."

"If I ever doubted it I now know where you get your dedication," retorted Draco. "Although I hope to meet you mother one day. Sounds like a woman I'd like to get to know. Especially since I've enjoyed furthering my acquaintance with her daughter."

Unsure how to respond, Hermione simply smiled at Draco, "Let's begin dinner before the warming charms wear off."


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Finding themselves once again in the lounge, Draco refilled his and Hermione's wine glasses. Rose and Scorpius had long since excused themselves, pleading an unquenchable desire to play billiards at the pub on the corner.

"The meal was delicious Hermione. I am very appreciative that you allowed Scorpius and I to share your holiday," stated Draco quietly. "This is usually a rather somber and reflective holiday for me."

"Is that code for lonely?" asked Hermione.

Chuckling Draco responded, "And here I had thought I had been ambiguous enough that you wouldn't find me out."

"Well, if I didn't know the circumstances I would not have ferreted it out," Hermione smirked.

"Low blow Granger," Draco mock snarled. "But seriously, I appreciate the invitation. I was able to spend the Solstice with Scorpius for the first time since Daphne died."

"Are you joking? Why didn't you just tell Daphne's parents that you wanted to have Scorpius with you on the Solstice?"

"I must admit I took the path of least confrontation with Daph's parents after her death. I know they were grieving - I certainly was. But I also didn't want to put Scorpius in the middle. So I capitulated because I had no better plans to offer. But then you invited us; Scorpius is an adult now and therefore I am less invested in keeping the peace as I once was," Draco explained.

Hermione rose from their shared couch and walked to the mantle. Draco followed her. Looking over her shoulder, he matched his gaze to her line of sight. Hermione reached out for her Lilith figurine.

"I could never be Eve to Ron's Adam. I'm too much of a know-it-all. I kept trying to make myself fit into that adoring and subservient role; for my children, for the Weasley's, for Ron, But never for myself. But I am really Lilith, not Eve. I just couldn't survive without being able to live for myself, be in equal standing with my partner. But ultimately, Ron couldn't accept that. So just as Lilith did, I left on my own terms. But am I really free? I spent Rose's graduation avoiding confrontation with Ron and his family," recalled Hermione as she set Lilith down.

Draco gently set his hands on Hermione's shoulders, "I think you are starting. I'm not sure Lilith just left and didn't mourn the failure of her circumstance. Didn't regret that things and people had essentially let her down. Even strong independent women need some time to regain their equilibrium. I so admire you Hermione. Your intelligence, passion and commitment put most other people's to shame."

Draco gently turned Hermione to face him, gazing down into her tear-filled eyes. He slowly lowered his face to hers. For a long moment he simply looked, really looked, into Hermione's eyes. Then he closed his eyes and slowly closed the space between their lips, gently brushing his lips across Hermione's. Time seemed to stop and the warmth and softness of their lips meeting urged both of them to take the kiss farther.

Sliding her hands up Draco's chest, Hermione entwined them in the downy soft hair at the nape of his neck. Gently massaging the muscles at the back of his neck, Hermione opened her lips to accept Draco's questing tongue. Lightly exhaling through her nose, Hermione slanted her mouth to better align it with Draco's. She found the rough slide of his tongue against hers highly erotic, igniting a fire that hadn't burned in her soul in a very long time. Hermione moaned softly and clasped Draco closer to her torso; leaving no space between them from chest to knee.

Draco was slightly surprised with the fervor that Hermione showed in their kiss. Slowly gliding his hands down her back to rest on her hips he added his own pressure towards melding her body to his. Groaning quietly as Hermione's tongue followed his own into his mouth, he gently began to suck on the taut muscle. Hearing her almost purr, Draco felt his control slip completely. Quickly clasping her head and threading his fingers into hair, he directed Hermione's head up to allow him easy access to lathe her neck. Nipping and then kissing the injured skin, Draco made his way to the notch between Hermione's neck and shoulder. Tenderly biting only to soothe the irritated skin, Draco's pulse was pounding in his ears. He could only just hear Hermione's moans above the syncopated beating. Draco could feel Hermione's hands flexing against his chest, like a cat kneading with it's paws.

Ripping his lips from Hermione's skin with a rather louder smack than he anticipated, Draco growled, "I want you, Hermione. Right now. If you don't feel the same then I suggest that you show me the door and slam it in my face."

In answer to his unspoken question, Hermione gripped his torso firmly and Draco felt the squeeze of side-along apparition. As his head cleared he became aware that Hermione had taken them to what appeared to be her bedroom and sitting room. The large four-post bed while loaded with pillows avoided looking fussy due to the bold geometric design of the bedding. While there was clearly electricity in the room as evidenced by the computer in the corner, the room was softly lit with floating candles drifting on the currents of the air. Realizing that they must be directly above the lounge room, Draco took in the inviting blaze in the fireplace and mantle crowded with wizard and muggle photographs. Dimly realizing that Hermione was not in his arms any longer, he turned away from the homey hearth only to have his breath catch at the sight of Hermione reflected in the firelight. Her skin, all of it, was glowing a burnished gold in the muted illumination.

Draco simply grabbed the bottom of his sweater and shirt combination and began to drag it over his head. Luckily the top buttons were undone or quite a bit of awkwardness would have ensued, thought Hermione. Hoping that she hadn't been too forward while at the same time knowing that this was one of those moments where everything in your past, present and future converge; knowing that the moment was definitive calmed her somewhat. Draco had removed his sweater and shirt while she was ruminating and was sliding his pants and trousers down his well-muscled thighs while toeing his shoes off.

"I like a man who is capable of multi-tasking," chuckled Hermione as Draco finished divesting himself of his clothes. Moving with determination towards Hermione, Draco swung her into his arms and pivoted to change direction and head to her bed. Flicking his hand, Hermione's bedding neatly left the bed, baring the sheets to their heated skin. Gently laying her down and joining her on the mattress, Draco dipped his head to Hermione's neck once again. Hermione felt heat and wetness flood her labia as Draco worshipped her neck. Hermione brought her hands up to skim across Draco's shoulders and smooth back. Feeling the vibration of his silent groan on her neck, Hermione slid her hands down past the dip in Draco's lower back to his firm ass. Rubbing the globes and feeling the soft prickle of the hair on his backside, Hermione reclaimed his lips with her own. Sucking on Draco's lush lower lip, she wriggled her body underneath Draco's.

Wasting no time so as to feel as much of Hermione's smooth skin against his, Draco practically crawled up and into Hermione. Laying on top of her and grinding his cock into her stomach, the only thing Draco could think of was plunging into her tight wet cunt immediately. He shivered, slightly appalled at the crudeness of his thoughts. But Hermione wasn't willing to slow down one bit. Breaking the kiss and gasping for breath, Hermione lifted both her legs to clasp Draco's mid-section. In the space of a thrust, Draco's cock went from pushing against a soft abdomen to shoving into a bushy snatch. Shaking from the stoppage of his rising momentum, Draco lifted his upper body up and off of Hermione.

"Are you sure? This changes everything," Draco said huskily.

"It changed at Commencement, Draco. Let's finish what we started," replied Hermione.

Needing no further encouragement, Draco leveraged Hermione's legs onto his shoulders and slowly encased his cock in her velvet heat. Sliding in was pure heaven. Draco could feel Hermione's heartbeat through his cock, the pulsing of her cunt matching the throb he was experiencing. Slowly withdrawing and re-entering was pushing the patience of them both to the limit. Anxious to feed her intense need, Hermione angled her pelvis and met Draco's slow thrust with a rough one of her own. The sedate pace ended and Draco pounded into Hermione, pinning her to the mattress relentlessly. Reaching between their joined bodies, Draco snaked a finger onto Hermione's clit. The pressure of Draco's thrust with the added intensity of his finger pushed Hermione over the edge into a muscle clasping, heart-stopping climax. Wave after wave of it passed through Hermione's body; causing her nipples to harden into peaks and her legs to convulse around Draco's abdomen.

Draco felt himself gripped inside and out. Black spots danced in his vision as he felt himself jerk roughly as he shot his cum into Hermione. Collapsing onto Hermione's chest, all Draco could do was breath. Sliding out and off of Hermione, Draco kept his head on her chest. Lightly flicking her nipple with his fingernail, Draco blew across the still turgid peak. Deciding he hadn't properly lavished Hermione's beautiful breasts with enough attention, Draco suckled Hermione's left breast while continuing to massage the right.

"Mmm, that feels wonderful," murmured Hermione. "Keep that up and I'll ravish you again."

"I am no longer a young man Hermione. But I am willing to see where your ravishment takes us," said Draco after disengaging his mouth from her breast.

"Neither am I a young woman, Draco. Merlin knows how I'm going to explain the marks on my neck that you've left."

"There are spells to cover them up you know."

"Yes, but I don't know them. I never needed them. And I do not feel like asking anyone at this stage in my life," grimaced Hermione.

"Well, if Scorpius and Rose have returned there are going to be plenty of questions anyway," commented Draco.

"Draco, they knew what's going on between us before we figured it out."

"I wouldn't say that, I've known that there was something happening since Scorpius' and Rose's graduation. I've felt excited about life again, and it has been a great while since I have felt that way."

"You didn't hire me simply because you wanted to fuck me did you?" Hermione cried, alarmed.

"No, no, no. Granger, you're the best damn attorney in or out of the wizarding world. You understand the intersection of wizarding and muggle law. You were head and shoulders above any of the other candidates," Draco replied heatedly. "Plus I didn't really realize I wanted into you pants until after you came to work at Malfoy Enterprises."

"You are incorrigible! But I wouldn't want you any other way, Draco" Hermione said as she nuzzled Draco's scalp. "You respect me and my judgment, you always treat me as an equal and you truly value my input. I would never have taken the job otherwise. But it is so refreshing to be treated that way. And you make me feel beautiful and wanted."

"That's because you are beautiful, Hermione. Outside but more importantly on the inside."

"Even with this liberal amount of grey?" asked Hermione.

"Yes, and if you haven't noticed there is quite a bit of grey in the traditional Malfoy blond," Draco smirked. "You know that those things don't matter, not in the long run. I'd much rather have your intelligent conversation and passionate beliefs than some insipid doll whose using so many facial reconstruction charms that she might shatter her visage if she laughs."

Smiling Hermione lightly kissed Draco's lips. "You know just what to say, don't you?" she asked.

"Well, there is something to be said for the Malfoy charm," quipped Draco.

Hermione waved her hand and dimmed the candlelight in her bedroom. Turning on her side to spoon Draco, she felt him clasp her hand tightly in his.

"This was the best Solstice I've had in a long while, Hermione. Thank you." Draco murmured while he gently kissed Hermione's knuckles. "Goodnight."

"Happy Solstice Draco," replied Hermione as she kissed his shoulder.


~*~*~*~ Finis ~*~*~*~



Quote: Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, and knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful - Samuel Johnson