The Magical Contract

The Magical Contract

Chapter 1

Hermione Granger and her boyfriend of nine months, Alex Johnson, were sitting on the balcony outside Hermione's apartment. Hermione was looking up at the starry sky. It looked quite romantic actually.

“I love you, Hermione,” Alex said suddenly.

“I love you too, Alex,” Hermione replied with a smile. Alex stood up, walked over to Hermione, kneeled on one knee, and took her hand.

He took a deep breath and said, “Hermione, will you marry me?”

“Oh, Alex,” Hermione replied. “Of course I will.”

Alex let out his breath, as he slipped the ring on Hermione's finger.

Hermione leaned down and kissed him under the starry sky.

************************

Under that same starry sky, Harry Potter and his girlfriend of one year, Lindsey Reeves, were sitting outside talking. Harry turned to Lindsey, and pulled something out of his pocket, but she couldn't see what.

“Lindsey, will you marry me?” asked Harry nervously.

Lindsey looked stunned for a second, and then replied, “Yes, yes, yes!”

Harry smiled and slipped the engagement ring on her finger.

When she saw it, she gasped. It was beautiful. It must have cost a fortune.

“Oh Harry, this ring is beautiful,” she squealed happily.

“Just like you,” he replied.

She smiled and said, “I love you.”

“I love you too, Lindsey,” he said as he leaned over and kissed her.

************************

When Alex and Hermione broke apart it was nearly midnight.

“I better go; I have to go to work tomorrow. See you later, Hermione,” Alex said.

“Bye, Alex,” Hermione replied. She opened the door to her apartment, and they went into the living room. She kissed him, and let him out.

After Alex left, Hermione was not at all tired. She was too excited. She decided to call Ginny to tell her the news.

************************

Harry smiled at Lindsey. She looked at her watch, and gasped.

“It's almost one o'clock in the morning,” she said.

“Oh my,” said Harry, surprised. “I better get home, so should you.”

“Yeah, see you tomorrow,” Lindsey replied.

************************

When Harry went inside, he couldn't sleep. His adrenaline was too high. He decided to stay up, and watch TV.

************************

“Okay, well, bye, Gin,” Hermione said into the phone, and then hung up.

She was so excited, and Ginny, after getting over the fact that Hermione had woken her up at almost one o'clock, was thrilled.

She needed to tell her parents, but she would wait until later for that. She had to tell someone. She decided to call Harry. She knew he didn't have to go to work tomorrow because it's summer, and being the Headmaster of Hogwarts meant he didn't have to work. She was the Charms teacher, and Harry's girlfriend was the new Care for Magical Creatures teacher.

She picked up the phone, and dialed.

************************

Harry was finally drifting off to sleep, when the phone rang.

He picked it up, wondering who would call him at this time of night, and said, “Hello.”

“Hi Harry, it's me, Hermione,” she said.

“Hey, Hermione, what's up?”

“Nothing much.”

“Then why are you calling me at 2 o'clock in the morning?”

“Oh, yeah, I wanted to tell you something.”

“What? I have something to tell you too.”

“Let me go first.”

“Okay.”

“Guess what happened today?” Hermione asked excitedly.

“What?”

“Alex proposed to me!”

“That's great, congratulations!”

“I know. I'm so happy. Now, what did you want to tell me?”

“I wanted to tell you that Lindsey and I are going to get married!”

“Whoa, really? That's awesome. Congratulations!”

“Thanks.”

“This is soooo cool,” Hermione squealed. “We got engaged on the same night.”

“Yeah, that is kinda cool,” Harry agreed, “but I wish Ron were here to see.”

“I know, I miss him too.”

“Well, I really gotta get to bed.”

“Yeah, me too. Bye Harry.”

“Bye.”

Harry went to bed sadly thinking of Ron's death.

************************

The next morning, Hermione called her parents to tell them about her engagement.

“Hello, Granger residents.”

“Hi Mum, it's Hermione.”

“I kind of figured that when you said mum.”

“Oh yeah. Get Dad on the other extension, I have good news I want to tell you both.”

Mrs. Granger yelled to her husband to pick up the other phone.

“Hi honey.”

“Hey Dad. Guess what?”

“What?” both of her parents asked in unison.

“I'm engaged!”

“Oh honey, that's wonderful! To Alex, right?” her mother asked.

“Yes,” Hermione replied. “What do you think, Dad?”

“I think that's great! Congratulations!”

“Thanks Dad.”

“Have you told anyone else?”

“Yes, Ginny and Harry.”

“You told them before us?” Mr. Granger asked, mock indignantly.

“I told them at like 1 o'clock in the morning, and I didn't want to wake you up so early.”

“Oh, good idea. I gotta get to work, but I'll talk to you later.”

“Okay, bye Dad.”

“I've gotta go too honey, I'll call you later. Bye.”

“Bye, Mum.”

Hermione smiled as she hung up the phone she was so happy.

************************

Later that day, when both Mr. and Mrs. Granger got home from work, they went up to the attic to look at old pictures. They looked at albums and albums full of pictures, seeing these pictures mad Mrs. Granger want to cry because her little baby was so grown up. She was engaged. She was going to be married soon.

“Look at this,” said Mr. Granger, holding up Hermione's baby book.

“Oh, I haven't seen this since Hermione was a baby,” she said starting to cry.

She flipped through the pages looking at memoirs from when Hermione was a baby. When she looked down at the last page, she gasped.

“What is it?” asked Mr. Granger.

Mrs. Granger just handed the book to him. He took it, and gasped also.

On the page was a piece of parchment, on it was printed:

This contract hereby binds Harry James Potter and Hermione Marie Granger in marriage. This is to coincide on or before the aforementioned people's 25^th birthdays. If one or more of these people does not comply, there will be dire consequences for both. The following signatures show agreement to this contract:

James Potter

Lily Evans Potter

George Granger

Anne Johnson Granger

“Hey Mum, Dad, where are you?” called Hermione as she walked in the door.

“We're coming dear,” Mrs. Granger yelled back. Mr. and Mrs. Granger went down to the 1^st floor where Hermione was waiting.

“Hermione, what is Harry's full name?” asked Mrs. Granger nervously.

“Harry James Potter, why?” Hermione said. “Mum, are you okay? You look really pale.”

Hermione was getting worried. Her parents both looked really strange.

“What's wrong?” Hermione asked. She was really worried now.

“Were his parents Lily and James Potter?” Mrs. Granger asked shakily.

“Yeah. Why?” Hermione asked, worried.

Her mother just passed her the parchment silently. Hermione sat on a chair and read it. Her eyes widened with every word.

“Oh, my God,” she whispered. She dropped the parchment, and just stared at her parents. She was trying really hard not to cry. After a few minutes, Hermione said with difficulty, “I'm going to call Harry. Is that okay?”

“Yes go ahead. Tell him to come over,” Mrs. Granger replied.

Hermione went to the phone and dialed.

************************

Harry was just about to Apparate out when the phone rang. He was going to be late. He decided to let the machine pick it up. Someone started to leave a message. It was Hermione, and she sounded really upset.

He picked up the phone and said, “Hello.”

“Hi Harry,” Hermione said with difficulty.

“What's up?” Listen, I'm about to meet Lindsey, so could you make this quick?”

“Harry can please come over. If you don't I'll be really upset, this is something you have to know. Please come over,” she begged.

“Um, I'm kinda late for a date with Lindsey,” Harry said.

“Please Harry, this is really important. Please,” she was close to tears again.

When Harry heard her voice, he broke. It did sound important, so he said, “Alright, I'll be right over.”

“Thanks, Harry,” she said quietly, and hung up.

Chapter 2

When Harry got to Hermione's house, her dad opened the door.

“She's in the living room,” was all he said. He looked really pale.

“Hello Hermione,” Harry said as he entered the room.

Hermione looked up. She was crying. On the way to her house, Harry had explained to Lindsey why he couldn't make it. She was not happy with him. He had thought at the time that whatever Hermione had to say had better be important. Now, seeing her face, he felt guilty for thinking that.

“So, Hermione tells us you're engaged,” Mr. Granger said quietly.

“Yes, I am. To the Care for Magical Creatures teacher at Hogwarts, Lindsey Reeves,” Harry replied.

“Ah, how nice,” Mr. Granger replied. “Well, Anne let's leave these two to talk.”

Hermione's parents walked out of the room. Harry sat down next to Hermione on the couch. He put an arm around her shoulder and asked,” What's wrong? What's so important?”

She took a deep breath to stop crying. The she said, “I want to show you this,” pointing to the contract. “Before you read it, listen to me. I didn't know anything about this.”

Harry nodded and picked it up. He read it, and his jaw dropped. He stared at Hermione. All he said was, “Oh, my God.”

“That's exactly what I said,” she said with a harsh laugh.

“Explain,” Harry said.

Hermione took a deep breath. “My parents and your parents used to be great friends for a long time. My mum and your mum used to be best friends before your mum went to Hogwarts. They stayed friends after that. When they both got married and were both, they formed this contract. Out parents thought that since they were all great friends we would be too. I guess they were right about that. When your parents died, they put the contract in my baby book, and put it in the attic to be forgotten. Well, when they heard I was getting married, they decided to look at old pictures and things. My mum picked up my baby book, and found this,” said Hermione pointing to the contract.

Harry looked totally and completely shocked.

“Harry, are you okay?” Hermione asked quietly.

Harry nodded mutely. A million different thoughts were running through his head.

“If you're wondering why no one ever told you, it's because only my parents and your parents knew about it,” Hermione added softly, wishing Harry would say something. The silence was driving her crazy. It was too much.

“Harry, say something,” she said.

He looked at her and said, “I don't know what to say.”

Hermione sighed, but what did I expect him to say, she asked herself. I love you, marry me? Wait, why did I just think that? Hermione shook her head to clear her thoughts.

“Hermione, does Alex know you're a witch?” Harry asked carefully.

Hermione shook her head silently, biting her lip.

“You're in a lot of trouble. Do you realize that? Why didn't you tell him?” Harry asked sternly.

Hermione started to giggle.

“What is so funny?” Harry snapped impatiently. Hermione just told him if her married Lindsey, he would face dire consequences. He didn't find anything funny about that.

“Nothing, you just sound like your scolding one of your students,” Hermione managed between giggles.

Harry smiled, Hermione was right, he did sound a bit like he was scolding one of his students.

“To answer you questions, yes I realize I'm in a lot of trouble, and I didn't tell him because I was afraid he'd dump me,” Hermione said sadly.

Harry shook his head and said, “I can't believe you're engaged, and you didn't tell him. Hermione, you have a lot to explain to him. Were you ever going to tell him?”

“Only if our son or daughter was magical too,” Hermione replied.

Harry just shook his head again.

“What should we do, Harry? I mean, we're both engaged. What are we supposed to tell Alex and Lindsey?” Hermione asked desperately.

“The truth,” Harry replied firmly.

“But Harry-”

“No buts, Hermione, we have to do this. Now you call Alex, and I'll call Lindsey. Tell him to get over here right away,” Harry commanded.

Hermione nodded and left the room. When she came back, Mr. and Mrs. Granger followed her in. They looked at Harry and Mrs. Granger said, “We're really, really sorry about this, Harry. We just thought that since Lily and James died, you had too.”

“It's alright. It's just a big surprise, that's all. No one ever told me that my parents were friends with the Grangers,” Harry said quietly.

Just then the doorbell rang, and Mr. and Mrs. Granger answered it. Harry expected it to be Alex, but instead, it was Sirius. (Dumbledore helped clear his name right after Harry got out of Hogwarts.)

“Hi Sirius.”

“Hey Sirius.”

“Hello Harry, Hermione.”
“What are you doing here?” Harry asked.

“Mrs. and Mr. Granger called me, and told me what had happened, I decided to come and talk to you,” Sirius replied.

“Well, I was just about to call Lindsey. Hermione already called Alex to explain to him,” Harry told him.

“Go ahead, I'll help you two explain to Alex and Lindsey if you want,” Sirius offered.

“Thanks, Sirius, we'll need all the help we can get,” Harry said with a pointed glare at Hermione.

“Yeah, Sirius, I'll need some help because er um Alex doesn't know I'm a witch,” Hermione finished quickly.

Sirius looked at her for a moment, and then said, “You're right, you'll need some help.”

Hermione smiled sheepishly.

“Well, I'm going to call Lindsey,” Harry said as he walked out of the room.

Sirius turned to Hermione and said, “You probably don't know this, but James and Lily were your godparents.”

“They were?” Hermione asked surprised. She looked at her parents, and they nodded. “Wait are they the ones you used to call Aunt Lily and Uncle James?” Her parents nodded again. “So the cousin I once had that died, wasn't really my cousin, but Harry?”

“That's right; Lily and James were out best friends. Whenever we wanted to tell you something about them and Harry we said they were your aunt and uncle, so you didn't ask too many questions. We didn't think you were a witch at the time, so why tell you our best friends were a witch and wizard?” Hermione's mother explained.

Just then, Harry re-entered the room.

“What'd she say?” Sirius asked.

“It took a lot of convincing, but she finally agreed to com,” Harry replied.

At that moment, the doorbell rang. Hermione got up to answer it, and came back with Alex following her.

“Hello Alex, dear,” Mrs. Granger greeted him.

“Hi Mrs. Granger, Mr. Granger,” Alex replied.

“Alex, you know Harry, and this is his godfather and my friend, Sirius Black,” Hermione introduced them.

“Hi.”

“Hello.”

“Why did you want me here, Hermione?” Alex asked.

“Just be patient,” Hermione replied, as the doorbell rang again.

“That's Lindsey, I'll get it,” Harry said.

He came back a minute later with Lindsey following him.

“Hi, Lindsey,” said Hermione.

“Hey, Lindsey,” greeted Alex.

“Hi,” she replied.

“Lindsey, these are Hermione's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Granger, and you know Sirius,” Harry told Lindsey.

“Nice to meet you,” Lindsey said, shaking hands with Mr. and Mrs. Granger.

“Okay, well I think we're ready,” said Sirius.

“Yeah,” said Harry.

“First of all, Hermione wants to say something,” Sirius urged her.

“Alex, er, uh, well, I'm a- I'm a- I'm a witch,” Hermione finished quickly.

“What?” asked Alex.

“I'm a witch,” Hermione repeated.

Alex just stared at her. Then he started to laugh. “This is a joke, right?”

Everyone shook their heads.

Harry chose to speak first, “Calm down, alright. We are all, except Mr. and Mrs. Granger, wizards of witches.

“Really?” Alex asked, and when everyone nodded, he continued, “Cool!”

When he said this, Hermione looked very surprised.

“You're really okay with that?” asked Hermione, her voice filled with disbelief.

“Yeah, I mean I'm surprised, but I think it's cool,” Alex told her.

Hermione smiled.

“Is this what I came here for? To listen to Hermione tell her Muggle fiancé that she's a witch? Is this why you cancelled out date? To listen to this?” Lindsey yelled at Harry. She was very hurt that he would rather go to Hermione's house then go on their date.

“Oh no, there's something much more important,” Harry told her. He was starting to feel guilty again. The more he looked at Lindsey's hurt face, the guiltier he felt. “Look Lindsey, I'm really sorry about backing out of our date, but I'm glad I came because this could affect our marriage.”

“What's a Muggle?” asked Alex, offended.

“Oh, it's nothing bad. It's the name witches and wizards use for non-magical people,” Lindsey spat at him.

“Geez sorry,” Alex shot back sarcastically.

“Stop fighting,” Harry and Hermione said in unison.

“They remind me of you and Ron, Hermione, fighting about the stupidest little things,” Harry said sadly.

“Who's Ron?” Alex asked quietly. Both Harry and Hermione had pained expressions on their faces.

“He was out other best friend,” Hermione said sadly, remembering Ron.

“What happened to him?” Alex asked.

“Voldemort, a very powerful Dark Wizard, a few years ago, killed him. Right before Harry defeated him,” Hermione replied.

“Oh my, I'm so sorry,” Alex said quietly.

“It's alright, we've gotten over it,” Harry told him.

“But that's not why we wanted you here,” Hermione said, changing the subject.

Harry picked up the magical contract, and handed it to Lindsey. While she read it, she got paler and paler. When she was done, she looked up at Harry.

“We knew nothing about this, I swear. This was a total shock to us. Mr. and Mrs. Granger found it in the attic. They put it up there because they thought I died when my parents did,” Harry explained to her.

“What are you talking about?” Alex asked.

Lindsey handed him the contract.

He read it. When he looked up, he didn't seem phased at all. He said, “So what? I mean, no one would ever know. What dire consequences could these really be?”

They all looked at him, too shocked to speak. Hermione recovered first, and said cautiously, “Alex, I told you, I'm a witch. This is a magical contract. Doing things, like breaking this contract, in the magical world wrong, has its consequences. If I marry you or if Harry marries Lindsey we'll be living cursed lives.” After she said this, she began to cry. A few minutes later, Lindsey followed, and started crying also.

They both sat down on the couch, crying. Harry went and sat next to Lindsey. He put his arm around her, and she turned around to cry in his shoulder.

Alex looked very uncomfortable. “Hermione, what are we going to do?” Alex asked after awhile.

She looked up at him, and said, “I don't know. For once in my life, I don't, honestly, know what to do.” By now she had stopped crying. She was even smiling a little at the thought.

“That's not true. When we were in out fourth year, you couldn't figure out a way to help me breathe under water for the second task,” Harry told her, a faint smile on his lips.

“True, the one other time I didn't know what to do, a house elf figured it out,” Hermione said, laughing.

“That's right, Dobby found, actually he stole, they gillyweed in Professor Snape's office,” Harry said, remembering.

Hermione smiled too. “Too bad Dobby's dead, he would be happy to help the famous Harry Potter sir,” imitating Dobby's voice. Harry laughed at her.

“Tell my more about the magical world,” Alex said.

“What do you want to know?” Hermione asked him.

“Everything,” he responded with a smile.

So they told him everything.

Chapter 3

A few hours later, everyone was exhausted, but they still had to figure out what to do. While Harry and Hermione were talking to Alex about the wizarding world, Lindsey had come to a decision.

“Harry, can I talk to you for a minute?” Lindsey asked.

“Sure,” Harry replied.

She led him out of the room, and into the hallway. She shut the door leading to the living room.

“Harry, I love you, I really do, but while you were talking to Alex, I was thinking. I've decided that, no matter how hard this is for me, I'm going to break up with you. I'm really sorry, but I won't let you voluntarily live a cursed life, which will happen if you marry me. I would do no good. I would just be making you suffer for me, and I just can't put you through a life of pain because of me,” by the time Lindsey had finished, she was crying.

“Lindsey, it's all right. I'll do it for you. I love you too much to give you up. I've survived Voldemort many times. I've grown up without parents. I mean, I can take it,” Harry told her confidently.

“No, Harry. That's exactly what I mean, you've suffered enough already, and I don't need to put you through more suffering. I just won't let you do it. Besides, I think Hermione likes you,” Lindsey said, smiling.

“Well, I would certainly hope so; we've only been friends for over ten years,” Harry replied, laughing.

“You know what I mean Harry,” Lindsey said exasperatedly.

“I know, but I think you're wrong,” Harry replied, blushing slightly.

“I think you like her too,” Lindsey said, giggling.

“I do not,” Harry blushed a deeper shade of red.

Lindsey laughed at him. “It's okay, Harry. I think it's cute. Anyway, I want you to have the best life possible, even if it means I can't have you. I hope we can still be friends,” she said getting serious again.

“Of course. I'll miss you Lindsey, but we can definitely be friends still be friends,” Harry replied, smiling.

“Here, Harry, you can have this back,” Lindsey held the engagement ring out to him.

“No, you keep it,” Harry said, pushing her hand back.

“Are you sure? It must have cost a fortune, you should keep it,” Lindsey replied.

“Yes, I'm sure. Keep it,” Harry told her. “It's a gift, from a friend.”

“Alright, if you're sure. I gotta go. Bye, Harry,” she gave him a quick peck on the lips.

“Bye, Lindsey.”

Then she left.

************************

In the living room, Alex and Hermione were having a similar conversation.

“I love you, Hermione, but I can't put you through that. I'll see you around. Bye,” Alex was finishing.

“Alright. Bye, Alex,” Hermione replied sadly.

Then he left. Hermione just sat staring into space, thinking about something Alex had said when they first stated dating.

*Flashback*

“Hermione I want to ask you something,” Alex said to her.

“What?” she asked.

“What's with that Harry Potter guy? I mean, who is he?” he asked her.

“He's been my best friend since I was eleven years old,” Hermione told him angrily.

“Well, I don't like him,” Alex replied bitterly.

“I don't care if you like him or not, but I do,” Hermione yelled at him.

“I don't see why. He's a bit weird, if you ask me,” Alex said innocently enough.

“Well, I didn't ask you, did I? You don't have to like him, just quit picking on him,” Hermione snapped at him.

“I'm sorry; I know he's your friend. I'll lay off him,” he said. “I guess I'm just jealous.”

“Why would you be jealous of Harry?” Hermione asked, confused.

“I think he likes you as more than a friend,” Alex replied.

“Why would you think that?” Hermione demanded.

“I don't know, just by the way he looks at you when you're not looking,” Alex told her.

“Whatever. I don't think you're right. It's impossible. Anyway, he has a girlfriend,” Hermione said.

“Why do you think it's so impossible for him to like you?” Alex asked innocently.

“Because we've been best friends for more than half our lives,” Hermione informed him.

“So?” Alex asked.

“Well, it's just not like that,” she said helplessly. “Besides, he has a girlfriend,” she repeated.

“He does?” he asked.

“Yes. Her name is Lindsey,” Hermione said. “Now let's just drop it.”

“Okay,” Alex said.

*End Flashback*

Now that Hermione thought about it, that was their first fight. It had been a stupid fight she knew. Harry does not like me like that, she told herself. Or maybe he does, said a voice in the back of her head. Of course not, she repeated firmly.

Just then, Harry re-entered the room, looking somber.

“Hey,” Hermione said quietly.

“Hey. Where's Alex?” Harry asked.

“He left,” she told him.

“Hermione, do you like me?” he said all of the sudden.

“What?” she asked shocked.

“Never mind,” Harry replied.

“No, what did you say?” Hermione asked again.

“I said, do you like me?” Harry repeated, blushing.

“Of course I do, you're my best friend,” she said.

“You know what I mean, Hermione,” Harry replied exasperatedly.

“Why do you ask, Harry?” Hermione asked curiously.

“Just something Lindsey said,” he told her.

Hermione started giggling, much to Harry's horror.

“What is so funny?” he asked indignantly.

“I was going to ask you the same about you,” she said between fits of giggles.

“You were?” he asked, surprised.

“Yes, I was thinking about something Alex said when we first started dating,” Hermione told him.

“Oh, I thought you were laughing at me,” he confided.

“Why would I laugh at you, almost the entire female population of the wizarding world has a crush on you,” Hermione told him, getting serious.

“Don't remind me,” Harry said, think of all or the times when people came up to him to ask for his autograph.

They sat in silence for awhile, until Harry said, “Hermione give me the contract, I need to see something.

She handed him the contract, and watched his face pale.

“What's wrong, Harry?” she asked.

“Hermione, my twenty-fifth birthday is in two weeks,” he replied.

“It is?” she asked, surprised. She looked at the calendar. “Oh my God, it is.”

“What are we going to do?” he asked Hermione.

“I don't know,” she replied.

“Where are your parents and Sirius?” Harry asked.

“In the kitchen. Come on, let's go talk to them,” she replied.

************************

When they got in the kitchen, Mr. and Mrs. Granger and Sirius looked up.

“So, what's the verdict?” Sirius asked.

Hermione bit her lip. “We don't know what to do. The contract says we have to get married before our twenty-fifth birthdays, and Harry's twenty-fifth birthday is in two weeks,” Hermione explained quickly.

“I almost forgot about that,” Sirius said.
“We're really sorry, Harry, Hermione,” Mrs. Granger said. She looked like she had been crying.

“It's going to be fine, really, Mum, we'll get through this. We always do.” Hermione said.

“Yeah, we always do,” Harry said with a smile. “No matter what the situation, we always come out on top.”

“But how are you going to do it this time?” Sirius asked them.

“I don't know, but we'll figure something out,” Hermione said confidently.

“I think that you have two options, you can be cursed for life or you can get married,” Sirius said matter-of-factly.

“Thanks Sirius, that makes me feel so much better,” Harry said sarcastically.

“Harry, it may not be comforting, but it's the truth,” Hermione said quietly.

“I know,” Harry said.

“Well, you have two weeks to decide. You could go on a few dates, and see what happens,” Sirius suggested.

“We've tried that before, it was a complete disaster. We ended up ignoring each other for two weeks. That's all we need, to be fighting now,” Harry said bitterly.

“You two dated? When?” Sirius asked, surprised.

“Right after Ron died,” Hermione told him.

“We were both so upset we decided to give it a try,” Harry added.

“We could try again. I mean, it was a long time ago, we were only seventeen, and like you said we were both so upset, we weren't thinking correctly. Let's give it another try,” Hermione said hopefully.

“No,” Harry said.

“Come on. Please, Harry. It's our only chance. Unless, you want to live the rest of your life cursed and friendless,” Hermione said mischievously.

“What's that supposed to mean?” Harry asked.

“Well, didn't you read the contract? It said that if we don't get married by our twenty-fifth birthdays, we would face dire consequences, which in the wizarding world, means a cursed life,” she stated matter-of-factly.

“I know that, I was talking about the `friendless' part of what you said,” Harry replied.

“Well, do you think I would still be your friend if you'd rather be cursed than go out with me? I don't think so. You'll be on your own, Potter,” Hermione told him.

“That's not going to work. You can't trick me. I said no, and I mean it,” Harry said firmly.

“Pleeease, Harry. Please. It can't hurt to try. It's the only logical option. Unless, you just want to get married today. I mean, we could do that, but that's not logical,” Hermione pointed out.

“Okay, okay. Leave it up to Hermione to be logical at a time like this,” Harry said with a snigger.

“Well, it's true,” Hermione said defensively.

“So, when will this `logical' date be?” Harry asked her teasingly.

“Is tomorrow okay with you?” Hermione asked.

Harry nodded, and said, “I'll pick you up at seven. Right now though, I'm going home. I'm exhausted.”

“Alright, see you tomorrow,” Hermione said.

“Bye Mr. Granger, bye Mrs. Granger. Bye Sirius. See you tomorrow Hermione,” Harry said, and Disapparated.

Chapter 4

The next day went by rather uneventful. By five o'clock, Hermione was beginning to get nervous. She knew it was silly, but she couldn't help it. Harry was right, last time they had gone out it had been a complete disaster. Granted, at the time they were both so upset that they were liable to break down at the simplest of comments. They had also been only seventeen at the time.

She remembered that night clearly. While the whole wizarding world had been celebrating, Harry and Hermione had been mourning. She had felt very sorry for Harry. He had just defeated his parent's murderer, but couldn't celebrate because he had lost his best friend along the way. She and Sirius were all he had left, so she'd asked him out to celebrate. He had reluctantly agreed.

When they had gotten to the restaurant, Harry had relaxed a little. He seemed to have forgotten all about Ron and Voldemort. That was until someone recognized him, and congratulated him. Then reality seemed to come rushing back. After that he was somber, withdrawn, and quiet. Hermione had tried to cheer him up, but nothing worked. After awhile he had snapped at her and accused her of betraying Ron. That had really hurt her because 1) she had not meant to betray Ron and 2) she was in a very fragile emotional state. So she had retorted and accused him of being a baby. That had started a huge fight, and left them both miserable for two weeks.

I should probably get ready now, she thought snapping back to reality.

She went upstairs and took a shower. When she got out of the shower, she looked in the closet for something to wear.

************************

At quarter to seven, the doorbell to Hermione's apartment rang. She was ready to go, so she opened the door. Harry was standing there ready for their date.

“Hey, Harry,” Hermione said.

“Hi,” he replied.

“So, what are we going to do?” Hermione asked curiously.

“Oh, I thought we'd go to dinner, and then see the play you've been dying to see,” Harry replied with a smirk.

“Really? How could you have gotten tickets so quickly?” Hermione asked incredulously.

“I'm Harry Potter. I can do anything,” he said smugly.

“Right. Whatever,” she said sarcastically.

“I'm serious. All I said was, `This is Harry Potter, and I was wondering if there were any tickets available for tonight's performance' and they said that the best they had available right now was a private box and was that okay with me. I told them that would be fine,” Harry told her.

“You have got to be kidding me,” she said disbelievingly.

“I'm not,” he said.

“Oh, Harry, you're wonderful,” Hermione said as she hugged him.

Harry looked both shocked and pleased with her response. “So where do you want to go for dinner?” Harry asked.

“Oh, I don't know, anywhere's fine with me,” Hermione replied.

“You're real helpful,” Harry said sarcastically.

“Okay, how about we go to The Leaky Caldron, since it's close to the theatre?” Hermione suggested.

“That's fine with me,” Harry replied.

“Alright, it's settled then,” Hermione stated. “Let's go.” Then they Apparated out.

************************

They arrived at the Leaky Caldron, sat down at a table, and ordered dinner. They talked about various things until their food came.

“This is nice. We really haven't hung out alone in a long time,” Hermione said while they were eating.

“Yeah, you're right, this is nice. I had been so caught up with Lindsey; I hadn't had much time for you. I apologize for that,” Harry stated sincerely.

“It wasn't only you. I was busy with Alex. I apologize too,” Hermione replied.

After that there was an uneasy silence. Both were thinking about their ex-fiancés.

“Harry,” Hermione said quietly.

“Yeah?” he asked questioningly.

“I miss Alex,” she said sadly.

“I know, I miss Lindsey terribly too,” Harry replied, just as sadly.

“Oh, Harry, what are we going to do?” Hermione was close to tears now, and her voice faltered as she said this.

“Hermione, I don't know. I just don't know,” Harry replied, running his fingers through his hair.

“Do you want to skip they play, and go to my apartment to talk?” Hermione asked.

Harry just nodded mutely. They paid for their food, and Apparated to Hermione's apartment.

************************

When they entered Hermione's apartment, they both sat down on the couch, and Hermione started crying almost immediately.

“Harry, I feel so awful. Why does everything always happen to us?” Hermione moaned.

“I don't know,” Harry replied, “but I feel awful too.”

“Are we really going to get married?” Hermione asked.

“I don't know,” Harry said helplessly. “Whey can't anything in our lives ever be easy?”

“I knew when I first heard you were on the train that I shouldn't become friends with you just because you were famous. If I would have, I would have been set up for a hard fall,” Hermione said, thinking back to the first time she had seen Harry on the Hogwarts Express.

“What are you talking about?” Harry asked her incredulously.

“When I first heard that you were on the train, I wanted to be your friend because I had read about you and you were famous. A little voice in the back of my head told me that those were the wrong reasons for becoming you friend, and it was right,” Hermione explained.

“Oh,” Harry replied.

There was a silence between them.

“Hermione, have you ever regretted being my friend?” Harry asked her. He knew he shouldn't, but he couldn't help himself.

“No. Sometimes I'll think, why on earth did I become his friend, but then I'll remember why,” Hermione replied, smiling.

“Why did you become friends with me?” Harry asked curiously.

“Oh, honestly Harry. I became your friend because you're a wonderful person. You're smart, sweet, and funny. It's also a plus that you're the hero of the wizarding world,” she added with a teasing smile.

“Oh, thanks,” he replied sarcastically.

“It also helps that you're one of the hottest men in wizarding world,” Hermione said playfully.

“I can't argue with you there,” Harry replied, smiling impishly.

“You are so full of yourself,” Hermione teased.

“I'm only stating the facts,” he shot back.

“Uh, you can be so frustrating at times,” she said, resisting the urge to stick her tongue at him.

“That may be true, but you love me anyway,” Harry replied with a cocky grin on his face.

This time Hermione really did stick her tongue out at him, then she threw a pillow his way. It him in the face.

“Hey, you are going to ruin my beautiful face,” Harry said with a teasing smile.

“Oh, it's only a pillow, honestly,” Hermione replied as she threw another pillow at him. He threw one back at her. Soon they were both throwing pillows at each other and laughing. The scene was quite comical; they looked like a couple of little kids.

After about fifteen minutes, they both collapsed on the couch, clutching their stomachs, and laughing.

“That was so much fun,” Harry gasped once their laughter had subsided a little.

“I agree,” Hermione replied. She hadn't had that much fun in a long time.

“If it was so much fun, then how come I feel so guilty?” Harry asked.

“I feel guilty too, but I know why,” Hermione told him.

“Why?” he asked.

“Because I just lost the man who was supposedly the love of my life, but here I am falling for my best friend,” she said calmly.

Harry was quite surprised. “What?” he sputtered.

“I said I'm falling in love with you, Harry,” Hermione replied.

“Good, because I think I'm falling for you too,” Harry told her, looking into her eyes. They both instinctively moved closer together on the couch as their heads moved closer together for the inevitable kiss. As they got closer, Hermione's eyes fluttered shut. When their lips finally met, it was pure bliss. At first it was tentative and inquiring, but it soon got more intense. Harry slipped his arms around Hermione's waist, and Hermione moved her arms around his neck to let her fingers tangle in his hair. Soon, Hermione felt Harry's tongue slide across her bottom lip. She eagerly opened her mouth, wanting to feel more of Harry. When Harry's tongue slid into her mouth, Hermione moaned softly against his mouth. Their tongues were now exploring each other's mouths. Harry moved his hands from around her waist, to put his hands under his shirt slightly. Hermione's skin burned where Harry touched it. She moved her hands from his hair to his chest. Harry broke away from her mouth, and began trailing kisses up and down Hermione's neck and jaw line.

This is what they looked like when Ginny walked into the room. She was shocked to find Hermione snogging on the couch. “Sorry about this Hermione, but-” Ginny broke off as Harry and Hermione untangled themselves from each other. “Harry!”

“Hey Gin,” Hermione said with an uncomfortable chuckle.

“Hi,” Ginny replied still quite shocked. “Look, I'm sorry I had no idea, maybe I should just leave.”

“No, no it's fine. Uh, what did you want to talk about?” Hermione asked.

“I think I'll go home,” Harry said.

“Alright, bye Harry,” Hermione said.

“See ya,” Ginny added.

“Bye,” Harry mumbled before walking out the door.

“So, what was that all about?” Ginny asked curiously.

************************

Awhile later, after Hermione had told Ginny all about her date with Harry, Ginny asked, “What did it feel like when you kissed him?”

“It felt absolutely perfect, like nothing I've ever experienced before,” Hermione replied dreamily.

“Wow. Even better than when you kissed Alex?” Ginny asked.

“As much as it pains me to say this, yes,” Hermione replied.

“Then, you must be in love with him,” Ginny said, it wasn't a question.

“Yes, I think I am,” Hermione said confidently.

“Hermione, can you keep a secret?” Ginny asked quietly.

“Yeah. What's up, Gin?” she asked, her voice filled with concern.

“Well, you see, there's this guy, and I think I might be in love with him. I think he loves me too, it's just my family might not approve of us having a relationship. We've been dating secretly for awhile, but I don't want to deep it a secret anymore. On the other hand though, I don't want my family to find out who he is. What should I do?” Ginny asked helplessly.

“Wow, Gin. You've got a lot on your plate. I think you should talk to this guy, and see what he wants to do. Then tell your family you want them to meet him, but tell them who he is ahead of time so they're not so surprised when they see him,” Hermione suggested, wondering who it is.

“Hermione, it would never work. My brothers would kill him before we even got a chance to plan a date for them to meet him,” Ginny replied, she was now close to tears. “Why did I have to fall in love with him?”

“Gin,” Hermione said gently.

“What?” Ginny asked through her tears.

“Who's the guy?” Hermione asked.

Ginny took a deep breathe, to stop crying, and said, “Dr- Draco Malfoy.”

“Oh, God. You're in love with Malfoy?” Hermione asked, very surprised. That was not what she had expected. When Ginny nodded, she continued, “How did you fall in love with him?”

Ginny started crying again. “One day, I was walking to my apartment, not really paying attention, when I ran into someone. We were both about to say something to the other, until we saw who the other was. I was so shocked, I couldn't talk. We just stood there, staring at each other, not saying anything. Finally, I broke the silence by saying that I'd never expected to see him again. He looked just as shocked as me. I also noticed that he looked a little different; his eyes didn't look as cold and filled with hatred as they used to be. He also hadn't insulted me. We decided to go somewhere to talk. We talked about what we'd done since we'd left Hogwarts. Then when I was about to leave, he said something that shocked me even more than seeing him. He apologized for all the things he's done while we were at school. I couldn't believe it, he had really changed, and he was actually apologizing. Then, he told me he had really enjoyed talking to me, and wanted to see me again. I told him I liked talking to him too. We made plans to meet again, and before he left, I kissed him. It had only been a quick kiss, but he had seemed a bit happier. After that, it was all downhill,” Ginny told her, remembering that day clearly. She even smiled a little.

“Wow, Gin. Wow. Look, Ginny, he sounds really sweet, nothing like the Malfoy I knew, and you're old enough to decide who you want to date, so congratulations,” Hermione said, smiling.

“Thanks, Hermione,” Ginny said, brightening a bit. “Though, I don't think that's how my family will react, but thanks.”

“Hey, don't mention it; I'm glad you found the perfect guy for you. Not that I would have guessed he was the one, but I'm still glad you found him. Now, on to the important stuff. Is he a good kisser?” Hermione asked mischievously.

Ginny giggled a bit. “Extremely good. You have not been kiss until you've been kissed by Draco Malfoy. Plus, he is incredibly sexy, and his smirk, my God. He is the best looking man I gave ever seen. I mean, I don't remember him being quite so hot at Hogwarts. All the girls thought he was cute, but I never thought he was anything special. Now, though, he's like Draco Malfoy, the sex god-”

She was about to go on, when Hermione interrupted,” Ginny you must be in love.”

“What makes you say that?” Ginny asked.

“You were babbling on about Draco Malfoy. It was getting kinda boring to listen to,” Hermione explained.

“Oh, sorry. So, what about Harry? Is he a good kisser?” Ginny asked with a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

“Well, I've only kissed him once, but form what I can tell, that mouth may be more experienced than we think,” Hermione answered giggling.

“Oh really?” Ginny said, arching an eyebrow.

“Yes, he's quite experienced,” Hermione told her, giggling.

“What has our Harry been up to when we're not looking?” Ginny asked, giggling as well.

“Our Harry? Excuse me, but he is all mine. You can't have him. So there,” Hermione said, sticking out her tongue, and feeling like a two year old who didn't want to share her toys.

“I'll make a mental note of that,” said a male voice.

Both Hermione and Ginny spun around. Standing there in the doorway, was Draco Malfoy.

Hermione raised her eyebrows, “What are you doing here?”

“Well, I was looking for my girlfriend, who kinda forgot to show up for our date,” Draco replied with a smirk.

“Oh, shoot, sorry. Hermione I gotta go, but I'll see you tomorrow. Bye,” Ginny said rushing to leave. “Sorry.”

Then they were gone. “Well that was an interesting evening,” Hermione mumbled to herself while getting ready for bed.

Chapter 5

The next morning, Hermione woke up in a good mood. Things were finally looking up. Later, she was going to meet Harry, Draco, and Ginny for lunch. Ginny had said she wanted to tell them something.

“I wonder,” Hermione mumbled to herself, thinking about what Ginny was going to say. While Hermione was thinking about this, the phone rang.

“Hello,” Hermione said, answering the phone.

“Hello dear,” Mrs. Granger greeted from the other end.

“Oh, hey Mum, what's up?”

“I just wanted to know how your date with Harry went.”

“Oh, it was great. I had a great time.”

“What did you do?”

“We went to the Leady Cauldron for dinner, and then we were going to go to a play. We didn't make it to the play because I ended up almost breaking down into tears at the restaurant. After dinner we came back to my apartment. We had a pillow fight, and ended up snogging each other senseless until Ginny walked in.”

“Sounds lovely dear.”

“And you want to know the best part? I think I'm falling in love with him.”

“That's great. I'm so glad this is working out for the best. Did you tell him?”

“Actually, yeah, I did. He said he thought he was falling love with me too.”

“That's wonderful. What are you doing this afternoon?”

“I'm going out to lunch with Harry and Ginny. Ginny says she has an announcement to make.”

“Okay. Well, I'll see you later. Bye.”

“Bye, Mum.”

After hanging up, Hermione went to get ready to go to lunch.

************************

When Hermione arrived at the restaurant, Harry and Ginny were already there.

“Oh good, you're here,” Ginny said in relief. “I wanted you to be here when my friend gets here.”

“Oh yes, I see what you mean.” Hermione said, smiling.

A few minutes passed as they made idle chit-chat. Then Ginny's “friend” arrived. Both Ginny and Hermione greeted him warmly, but Harry looked at him a bit skeptically.

“You look familiar,” Harry said, still looking at Draco.

“Harry, this is my boyfriend,” Ginny said. She took a deep breath and continued, “Draco Malfoy.”

Ginny and Hermione braced themselves for the explosion that would come. It never came. Ginny and Hermione stared at Harry.

“Well, aren't you going to yell and carry on?” Ginny asked confused.

“Why would I?” Harry asked quizzically.

“Because, I just told you I'm dating Draco Malfoy,” Ginny said. She was becoming more and more confused by the minute.

“Yeah I heard you, and your point is?” Harry asked. He was starting to become impatient.

“Well, he's Draco Malfoy,” Ginny said. She couldn't figure out what Harry was playing at.

“Yes, we've established that fact. Look, it you expected to start yelling at you, and telling you that your nuts and can't date him, it doesn't bother,” Harry told her calmly.

“Oh, well then, let's order our food,” Ginny suggested cheerfully.

“Good idea,” Draco said.

After ordering their food, they began to talk about various things.

“Are you two dating?” Draco asked Harry and Hermione casually after their food had come.

They both paused considering their answers.

“Well, sorta,” Harry said slowly.

“What do you mean `sorta'?” Draco asked.

Hermione began telling him the whole story. Everything from the contract, to the kiss.

“Wow,” was all Draco could manage.

“Ginny's eyes widened in shock. “You didn't tell me that. You just told me you broke up with Alex, and Harry broke up with Lindsey,” she said accusingly to Hermione.

“Yeah, sorry about that. I was going to tell you yesterday, but someone came and took you away,” Hermione said mock glaring at Draco.

“It's fine, I don't care,” Ginny said, laughing. Then suddenly she stopped, and went pale.

“What's wrong Ginny?” Hermione asked.

“Harry, your twenty-fifth birthday is next week,” Ginny replied.

“We know,” Harry and Hermione said in grim unison.

“What are you going to do?” Draco asked, re-entering the conversation.

“We don't know yet, we're going to discuss it tonight,” Hermione said mournfully.

“Well, if you need any help with anything, I'll be happy to help,” Draco said, surprising everyone. He continued, “I really want to make up for what I did to you guys while we were at Hogwarts. I'm really sorry about that.”

“Thanks, and Draco I'm sorry too,” Harry said, smiling.

“Me too. Some of the thing we did were pretty awful,” Hermione added, remembering her run-ins with Draco at Hogwarts.

“It's fine. Most of the time I provoked you anyway. By the way Hermione, you had a very strong arm at thirteen. Madame Pomfrey had to heal a huge bruise after you slapped me,” Draco said with a smile. Then they all started laughing. Hermione saw the light catch something on Ginny's finger. When she realized what it was she froze.

“Are you alright Hermione?” Harry asked, his voice filled with concern.

“I'm fine, absolutely fine. Ginny? Are you wearing what I think you're wearing?” Hermione asked, smiling.

“I think it is,” Ginny replied, also smiling.

“Huh?” Harry asked totally confused.

“She's talking about this,” Ginny said, showing him her finger.

Harry's jaw dropped.

“We're engaged,” Ginny said smiling wider.

“Wow. Congratulations! I'm so happy for you,” Hermione squealed.

“Yeah, Congratulations,” Harry said, grinning.

“This is why he insisted we go on our date last night,” Ginny said. She couldn't stop smiling.

“I see. I figured he had some reason for the date or it wouldn't have mattered that much,” Hermione said matter-of-factly.

“We have to go now. We're going to announce our engagement to the Weasleys, but we wanted to tell you guys first because you already knew we were dating,” Draco said.

“What?” both women exclaimed in shock.

“We have to go to the Wea-” Draco began again.

“No, I mean, Harry didn't know we were dating,” Ginny said, frustrated.

“Yeah, he did. I saw him awhile back, and told him,” Draco explained.

“Oh. Well, alright then. Bye, Harry, bye Hermione,” Ginny said.

“Bye Ginny, bye Draco. Congratulations,” Hermione replied.

After they had left, Hermione said, “You didn't tell me Draco and Ginny were dating!”

“Well, Draco told me not to tell anyone,” Harry replied. “Besides, I didn't know if you'd like it or not.”

“I guess you're right. When did you see him?” Hermione asked.

“About a month ago I was eating at the Leaky Cauldron, and Draco walked in, and sat down at the table next to me. He said something to the waiter, and I thought I recognized his voice. I looked over, and didn't recognize him right away. When I looked again, I thought he did look a little familiar. Eventually, he must have glanced at me, and recognized me. I heard him say my name, so I looked over. I still couldn't place his face. I finally asked him if I knew him. He told me he was Draco Malfoy. I was really shocked. He didn't look like I remembered him looking at Hogwarts, somehow nicer, not as cold,” Harry replied, remembering.

“That's exactly what Ginny thought when she saw him,” Hermione said.

“I'm not surprised. We talked awhile, and he told me about him and Ginny. After talking to him, I think he's really changed. He said that he had really never even meant to harass us, and that he had just always been jealous of our friendship. He didn't have any friends when he was at Hogwarts, everyone was afraid if they did anything wrong, he'd curse them or have his father curse them. Now, I realize what a mistake it was to reject his friendship,” Harry explained.

“That's sad, now I wish I had been nicer to him,” Hermione said.

“Yeah, me too, but there's nothing that can change that now,” Harry replied logically.

“That's true. Anyway, want to go to my apartment and talk?” Hermione asked, smiling.

“Well, that depends, is talking all we'll be doing?” Harry asked, raising his eyebrows suggestively.

“You'll just have to come and see,” Hermione replied, giggling a little.

“Alright then, I'll come,” Harry said smiling.

“Good, let's go,” Hermione said as they Apparated to Hermione's apartment.

************************

When they arrived, they both sat down on the couch. Harry put an arm around Hermione's waist, and she leaned her head against his shoulder.

“What are we going to do, Harry?” Hermione asked as she snuggled closer to him.

“Well, what about this? We go to the Ministry of Magic, become legally married, and then if and when we're ready, we have a big traditional wedding,” Harry suggested. “We don't even have to live together or anything, we can just date,” he added as an after thought.

“I think that's a great idea,” Hermione said enthusiastically. “It's perfect. Why didn't I think of that?”

“I don't know, but I'm glad you like it,” Harry said smiling. “Will you kiss me now?”

“Yes,” she replied. The she did.

************************

Sometime later, they were both sitting in front of the fire snuggled together, when the phone rang.

“Hello,” Hermione said, after picking up the phone.

“Hi, Hermione, it's Ginny.”

“Oh, hey Gin, what's up?”

“I just got back from the Burrow.”

“How'd it go?”

Ginny started to cry. “It was terrible.”

“Why don't you come over so we can talk?”

“I can't.”

“Why not?”

“Because I'm at the hospital.”

“Oh, my. Why on earth are you there?”

“My brothers beat Draco up so bad when they saw him, we had to take him to the hospital. We would have taken him to St. Mungo's, but they treat magic induced injuries first, and his wounds are not magic induced.”

“Oh my God, do you want me to come?”

“Could you, please?”

“Harry's over, cant he come too?”

“Yeah, just hurry.”

“Alright, we'll be right there.”

Then she hung up.

“What's going on?” Harry asked, worry entering his voice.

“Draco's in the hospital,” Hermione informed him quickly.

“Why?” Harry asked, horrified.

“Because the Weasley brothers beat him up so badly,” Hermione said, smiling a little. She found the whole situation quite funny, actually. “I'm going to the hospital. You want to come?”

“Sure.”

“Alright, let's go.”

Then they Disapparated.

Chapter 6

When they arrived at the hospital, they went up to the front desk.

“We're here to see Draco Malfoy,” Hermione told the receptionist.

“In room 401,” the receptionist said in a bored voice.

“Thanks,” Hermione said while dragging Harry to the elevator.

When they arrived on the fourth floor, they saw Ginny sitting in the waiting area, her face stained with tears.

“You alright, Gin?” Hermione asked gently when they had reached her.

“I think so,” Ginny replied, her voice trembling.

“Can you tell us what happened?” Harry asked, just as gently as Hermione.

“We walked into the Burrow, and I was going to introduce everyone, when me brothers realized who he was, and jumped on him. After that, it was chaos. Draco was yelling for help, Mum and Dad were yelling at my brothers, and I started crying. It was awful. It was three against one, Percy, Fred, and George against Draco. They just kept attacking. I thought they were going to beat him to death. Finally, when I came to my senses, I put a body bind curse on all of them. I unfroze Draco, and we rushed him here,” Ginny said, she began to cry again.

Hermione put an arm around her. “It will be alright. Draco will be just fine,” she said soothingly.

“I know, buy my brothers are such idiots,” Ginny growled in frustration.

“Can we go see him?” Hermione asked.

“Yeah, let's go,” Ginny replied, standing up.

When they entered Draco's room, Hermione gasped. Every visible part of Draco's body was bruised. He looked terrible.

“Oh my,” Hermione said quietly.

“Geez, I thought you were exaggerating when you said you were afraid they would beat him to death,” Harry said amazed. “They really beat him up. I knew the Weasleys hated the Malfoys, but this is ridiculous.”

“No kidding, and I had to watch it all happen,” Ginny said, shuddering at the memory.

Just then, Draco's eyes fluttered open.

“Ginny?” Draco asked groggily.

“Yeah?”

“I don't think your brothers like me very much,” Draco said, smiling weakly.

At this everyone started to laugh. They were all relieved that he was okay, and wasn't murderous.

“I don't think so either,” Ginny replied, smiling also.

“Gin, be honest with me. How bad is it?” Draco asked, grimacing in pain from laughing.

“Honestly? It's pretty bad. From what we can see every part of your body is covered in bruises,” Ginny said sadly.

“Is it really that bad?” Draco asked Harry and Hermione.

“Yes,” they replied in unison.

“That's not good,” Draco said, shuddering to think what he looked like.

“No, it's not. Look Draco, I'm really sorry, if I had known they were going to do that, I never would have taken you there,” Ginny said. She felt so guilty. Not that she knew her brothers would go nuts, but she still felt guilty.

“It's not your fault, Gin. You had no way of knowing what would happen,” Draco said soothingly.

“Do you love me?” Ginny asked, struck with a sudden curiosity.

“Of course I do. I've told you that many times. Besides, if I can be lying here, in a hospital bed, because you brothers beat me up, and I still want to marry you, I'm either in love or nuts,” Draco said confidently.

“Do you still want to marry me?” Ginny asked, still unsure.

“Of course, I do,” Draco replied exasperatedly.

“I know,” Ginny said smiling. Then she leaned down and kissed him. Harry and Hermione took that as their cue to leave.

When they were outside Draco's room, Hermione said, “Did you see him? He looked like he'd been run over by a semi truck. I can't believe the Weasleys were so violent.”

“I know what you mean. They beat him to a pulp. I wonder what Draco will do,” Harry said curiously.

“From the sound of it, nothing. Which is fine with me. That would just make it worse when they get married, anyway,” Hermione said matter-of-factly.

“Isn't wild? A Weasley, our little Ginny, and a Malfoy are getting married,” Harry said. He was very shocked when he heard they were engaged.

“Yeah, it is, but I think it's good too. This stupid feud had gone on long enough. When you think about it, it's quite romantic really. Just like Romeo and Juliet,” Hermione said dreamily.

“Yeah, you're right, it is quite romantic,” Harry agreed.

By this time, they had reached the exit of the hospital. “Fancy some ice cream?” Harry asked Hermione.

“Sure,” she replied.

************************

When they arrived at the ice cream parlor Harry said,” When do you want to get `married'?”

“It doesn't matter to me. The sooner the better, I guess. How about tomorrow?” Hermione suggested.

“Sure,” Harry agreed.

After a few minutes, Harry said, “What are we going to do after we're married?”

“What do you mean, Harry?” Hermione asked him.

“Well, are we going to live together or what?” Harry clarified.

“I don't think we should live together right away, but maybe later. I mean, we only started dating a few days ago,” Hermione decided.

“That sounds good to me. Now, I have another question. Are we going to tell everyone or just a few people or no one?” Harry asked.

“I think we should tell a few people, like the people who know about the contract,” Hermione replied.

“I like that idea,” Harry said smiling. “Now I have one more question. We need two witnesses to our marriage. Who do you want them to be?”

“I don't know,” Hermione said. “What do you think?”

“How about your parents?” Harry suggested.

“I don't think so. I mean, they feel really guilty about this whole thing, and this might make it even worse, being there when we get married against our will,” Hermione said uncertainly.

“Yeah, you're probably right. Who else could we ask?” Harry asked.

“What if we take Draco and Ginny up on their offer to help us? I mean, they already know about the contract, so we wouldn't have to explain anything,” Hermione pointed out.

“I like that idea. You can ask Ginny in the morning, but now it's getting late, and we should both probably get home,” Harry said.

“Okay see you tomorrow,” Hermione said cheerfully.

“I'll come to your apartment, alright? Bye,” Harry said, as he kissed her quickly.

Then he left. “I better go too,” Hermione muttered to herself. Then she too left.

************************

The next morning, Hermione woke up with mixed feelings. She was happy that the whole ordeal with the contract would be over soon, but she was also a bit nervous. She wanted to know what Harry thought of the whole situation. Hermoine didn't want to force him into something he didn't want. She would have just as easily waited. It was weird when she thought about it, she was going to marry Harry Potter. Never in the evtire time she'd known him would she have thought that she'd marry him. Now though, she wanted more than anything to marry him. She knew it was only to break the curse, but still she was excited.

I better go get ready, she thought, Harry will be over soon.

************************

When Harry woke up, he felt a sense of dreading. He felt like he had forced Hermione into this, and it was all his fault they were in this mess. It wasn't true and he knew it, but at the time he didn't want to believe it.

H was also a bit excited. The first time they had kissed, he had known that he was in love with her, and that he always had been. It had hit him as soon as their lips ha met. When it had first hit him, he hadn't known what to think, but had soon decided it was a good thing. Now they were getting married. True, it was only to let them both live both uncursed lives, but still they were getting married.

He decided to call Hermione to see if she was up yet.

************************

While Hermione was getting ready, the phone rang.

“Hello.”

“Hey Mione, it's Harry.”

“Hey Harry, what's up?”

“I just wanted to see if you were up yet.”

“Oh. When are you coming over?”

“It doesn't matter. When do you want me to come over?”

“How about in half an hour?”

“Alright. Have you called Ginny yet?”

“No, I'm going to that in a minute though.”

“Okay, see you soon. Bye.”

“Alright, bye.”

After Hermione hung up, she picked up the phone to call Ginny.

************************

While Ginny was getting ready to visit Draco, the phone rang.

“Hello.”

“Hey, Gin.”

“Hey Hermione, what's up?”

“Nothing much, how's Draco?”

“I'm taking him to Mum to heal him today. She's got all sorts of healing potions.”

“That's good.”

“Why'd you call?”

“Well, Harry and I have decided to get married legally at the Ministry of Magic, and then have a big ceremony later if we want to.”

“Oh, that's a good idea.”

“It was Harry's idea, but in order to do that we need two witesses. Will you and Draco be the witnesses?”

“Are you sure that's okay with Harry?”

“Yeah, I suggested it, and he thought it was a great idea.”

“Alright, sure, as long as Draco's up to it.”

“We were thinking of doing it today. Is that okay with you?”

“That's perfect. After Mum heals Draco, we'll come to your apartment.”

“Okay.”

“Bye.”

“Bye, Gin. Say hi to Draco for me.”

After hanging up, Ginny Appartated to the hospital.

************************

After hanging up with Ginny, Hermione went to her room to finish getting ready.

About ten minutes later, Hermoine was downstairs, and ready for Harry to come. Just then, Harry rang the doorbell.

“Hi, Harry,” Hermione said, as she opened the door. She leaned in to kiss him in greeting.

“Hey Mione,” Harry replied.

“I called Ginny, she said she and Draco would be happy to help us.”

“Good. How's Draco?”

“Mrs. Weasley is going to heal him today. Then they'll come here, and we can all go to the Ministry.”

“Alright.”

“In the mean time, what should we do?” Harry asked, sitting on the couch.

“I've got an idea,” Hermione replied seductively, also sitting on the couch.

“I'm way ahead of you,” Harry said, wrapping his arms around her. Hermione's eyes fluttered closed anticipating the kiss, and when their lips met it was pure bliss.

************************

A few hours later, after Mrs. Weasley healed Draco as good as new, Ginny and Draco arrived in front of the door to Hermione's apartment.

“Why didn't we just Apparate all the way in?” Draco asked.

“Because, last time I did that, I walked in on them snogging on the couch. That is not something I want to see again. They are very passionate when they kiss, and you never know what we could walk in on,” Ginny replied, smiling.

“Uh. You're right. Oh God, Gin, that is a nasty thought. Ring the doorbell,” Draco said, shaking his head to clear his thoughts.

“Alright,” Ginny said, complying with his request.

A few minutes later Hermione answered the door, looking a little disheveled.

“Told you,” Ginny whispered to Draco while they stepped into Hermione's apartment.

Hermione led them to the living room, where Harry sat on the couch, he hair looking a bit messier than usual.

“Why don't you two freshen up, then we can Apparate to the Ministry,” suggested Draco, with a twinkle in his eye.

Both Harry and Hermione flushed, but took his advice. A few minutes later, they looked much better, so the all Apparated to the Ministry.

************************

Three hours later, Harry and Hermione were laying in Harry's bed; totally naked. They were now happily married. It was late, and both were beginning to drift off to sleep, exhausted from the events of the night, when Harry said, “I love you, Hermione.”

Hermione sighed contentedly, and cuddled up against Harry, “I love you too, Harry.”

Within in minutes, they were both fast asleep.

Epilogue

Six months later, Harry and Hermione were sitting on the couch at their new apartment. Just recently, they had moved in together, and the day they did Harry proposed to her. She said yes, of course. She was thrilled, along with everyone that didn't know about the contract. They were planning a huge wedding with a guest list nearly three hundred people long.

At that moment, they were discussing wedding plans. This was not surprising considering that they were almost always discussing wedding plans. Harry and Hermione's discussion was interrupted by the phone ringing.

“I'll get it,” Hermione said. “Hello?”

“Hey Hermione, it's Ginny.”

“Hi Gin, what's up? You sound excited.”

“That's because I am. I have good news.”

“What's going on?”

“I'm pregnant!”

“Really?”

“Yeah.”

“Congratulations! This is so exciting! When did you find out?”

“This morning!”

“That's awesome.”

“I know, I'm so happy! I've always wanted to have kids.”

“What about Draco? How did he take the news?”

“At first, he was a bit nervous, he doesn't think that he'll make a very good father. After I reassured him that I thought he'd make a great father, he was thrilled. He said that he'd always secretly wanted to have children.”
“Well, that's great news! Tell Draco I said Congratulations, and that I totally agree with you, just because he had a lousy father, doesn't mean he'll be a bad father too. I think he would make a wonderful dad.”

“Thanks, I'll tell him, I'm sure he'll appreciate the support. I've got other people to tell, but I'll talk to you later.”

“Alright, bye Gin.”

“Bye, Hermione.”

After she hung up, she went back into the living room.

“Who was it?” Harry asked curiously.

“It was Ginny,” Hermione said.

“What did she want?” Harry asked, Hermione had been smiling when she got off the phone, so there must be some good news.

“She just called to tell me something,” Hermione began casually.

“And?” Harry asked prompting her gently, but really he was dying with the suspense.

“She's pregnant!” Hermione told him finally, smiling.

There was a slightly stunned silence, until Harry said, “That's great!”

“Yeah, that's what I said. I was hoping that she would get pregnant soon, I know she's always wanted to have a big family.

“I thought she hated growing up in a big family.”

“She didn't hate it, sometimes it was a little overwhelming, but she still loved having all her family looking out for her.”

“Oh. How's Draco taking it?”

“He's actually really excited about it.”

“Really?” This surprised Harry a lot, even though Draco had changed since Hogwarts, he still couldn't picture him as a loving father.

“Yeah, he said that he's always secretly wanted to have a big family. He also told me once that he'd always been jealous of the Weasleys, and that's why he always picked on them. He picked on you because the Weasleys considered you another one of their children, and he always wished that his family was like that,” Hermione told Harry.

“Wow, I never knew that. Now I really feel bad about picking on him.”

Draco and Ginny were now happily married, and living in Malfoy Manor. It had become Draco's when his parents died a few years ago, after the fall of Voldemort. Their wedding had been small, but elegant. Only the Weasleys, Harry, and Hermione had attended. Ginny had urged Draco to invite some of his Slytherin friends, but he said that there was no one that he'd ever like to see again. Harry and Hermione still hung around with them a lot, and the Weasleys, after the initial shock wore off, welcomed Draco into their family with open arms.

As for Alex and Lindsey, they still kept in touch with Harry and Hermione. Both of them had semi-serious relationships going right now. Lindsey had been going out with the Care for Magical Creatures professor at Beauxbatons for over four months, and Alex had been going out with a woman he worked with for about two months.

All in all, everyone was pretty happy with the way their lives were going.

“Hey Harry?” Hermione said to him suddenly.

“Yeah?” he asked.

“Remind me to thank my mum and dad for making that contract,” she replied, smiling contentedly at him, and resting her head on his shoulder.

The End

A/N: Sorry this chapter was so short, but I thought that it summarized everything pretty well. I want to say thank you to all of you who reviewed, you guys are awesome! I think I might do a sequel, but I'm not sure. Tell me what you think in your review. Thanks!

A/N: First I want to say, thank you to everyone who reviewed! You guys are awesome! I'd also like to tell you that I have written a sequel, and it's already uploaded. It's called Traditional Wedding, so if you are interested, go read it!