FIC: A Budding Romance [Draco/Hermione]
Title: A Budding Romance
Author: slythindorships
Prompt: # H33
Pairing(s): Draco/Hermione
Word Count: 5,350
Rating: PG-13
Warning(s): N/A
Disclaimer: Harry Potter characters are the property of J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury/Scholastic. No profit is being made, and no copyright infringement is intended.
Notes: Thank you to the mods for answering my questions, as this is my first ever fest, and thank you to my beta and real life friend, Lexi, for sticking with me through my erratic writing process! And thank you, wonderful reader, for clicking on my story and giving me a chance. Also, titles aren't my forte and puns aren't either so I'm sorry for the monstrosity the title is.
Summary: Hermione and Draco were never friends, and it seemed impossible to be anything more. But four meaningful flowers had the power to change that.
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Spring - Daffodils
1 May 1999
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Gryffindor Common Room
Hermione couldn't sleep. She had tried to, she really had, but the land of dreams-or rather, nightmares-had eluded her. It was 10 minutes until midnight, which meant ten minutes until the day she, and everyone else, had been dreading. It wasn't the day itself, but the events of it one year ago, that haunted them. They had won the war, but they had lost so many…that night had been filled with such horror and terror and above all, a raging fire to survive, to live to see the sunrise another day.
Hermione shuddered at the memories all bombarding her at once, memories of fear. Pure unadulterated fear.
She shoved them all in the mental box she had labeled "Do Not Open" before she could be too overwhelmed. She couldn't delve back into those memories. It just wouldn't do for her to fall apart.
"Hermione?" A voice questioned from the stairs. "What are you doing down here?"
Hermione didn't have to turn around to know who it was. She knew that voice and who it belonged to better than she knew almost anything.
"I could ask the same to you, Harry," she said, looking up as her bespectacled friend came over to the couch she was lying on. "Let me guess. You couldn't sleep?"
When he only nodded at her question, she gave him a sympathetic smile, lifting her feet and gesturing for him to sit down. He quickly followed her silent instructions, sitting down as Hermione rested her feet lightly on his lap.
To anyone watching them, they would appear to be a couple, but to anyone who knew them, the very thought was ludicrous. She, Harry, and Ron were like siblings, and the idea of being romantically involved with either of the two people she considered brothers was just ridiculous. They felt the same.
Hermione shook her head at the random turn her thoughts had taken, focusing her attention on Harry instead.
"We'll be okay, Harry. Tomorrow is only a day, and after the ceremony, we don't have to do anything," Hermione comforted the agitated raven-haired boy-no, man; he could hardly be called a boy after all they'd been through-and smiled slightly as he relaxed with her words.
Now, to sleep, so she could be fully prepared, mentally and emotionally, for the ceremony Hogwarts was holding tomorrow to honor those who had died for them, and to help heal old wounds. That was what life was about for everyone now; hurting, healing, and rebuilding. Hermione would try her hardest to heal and to help others heal as well. The wizarding world needed to reach the next step, rebuilding, at some point, or everything they had fought for would be for absolutely nothing. With those thoughts, Hermione was finally able to drift off, Harry following her into blissful slumber.
~~~~~
2 May 1999
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Great Hall
The chime of a spoon hitting a glass silenced the students immediately, although it was pretty quiet anyway. Professor McGonagall rose to speak.
"Thank you. Now as you know, we are all here today because of the great deeds of our friends and family, the ultimate sacrifice they made so we could stand here now," she began, straight to the point. "Our world has suffered far too much, for far too long. Our numbers are dwindling. If we continue to fight each other, what would be the point? We fought a huge war, and won, but at great cost. We must repair our society. We are all hurting, but a time must come for us to move on, and rebuild. Our time to heal is now. All students and my fellow professors, please stand."
Quickly getting up, Hermione surveyed the standing student body.
Everyone had been forced to redo the previous year of school, the Ministry and Board of Governors agreeing that the last year was hardly acceptable as a school year.
Back to the ceremony, Hermione.
Paying attention to the Headmistress, Hermione caught what she was saying.
"This ceremony will be in two parts. First, we shall honor those who died for us," she said. "No matter what side they were on." This statement was uttered with a glance at the Slytherin table, the most subdued table of them all. A few its students sent glares up at the teacher's table, annoyed at being indirectly called out. Most just seemed to ignore what was happening, especially the returning seventh years. The ones that, like Hermione, had been in the thick of things during the war. They were all sitting in the corner closest to the exit, as if they wanted to escape. Hermione could understand that. She felt the same way these days.
"If you could direct your attention to your table, you will notice many baskets have just appeared," McGonagall began. "These baskets are filled with candles. There are enough for each person in this room with plenty to spare. You will write the name of someone who was lost through the entirety of both wars, even if you did not know them. If they meant something to you, you may like to honor them in this way. Afterwards, you will light your candle with your wand. For those who can't, look to your peers for help. Then, place your candle in your hands and release it into the air. It will float upwards until everyone's candles are in the air. From this, we will be acknowledging who we lost, and we can release our pain as we release the candles into the air."
After hearing the professor’s explanation, Hermione set to work. She quietly wrote down the names of the ones she had lost, starting with Lily and James Potter. Even though she knew almost nothing about them, they meant a great deal to Harry, and therefore meant a great deal to her. Harry saw what she was doing, and was filled with affection for his best friend. She truly was wonderful.
Hermione set the candles aflame, and released them into the air, two of the first floating candles of what promised to be many more. After that, she continued on in chronological order, feeling a slight sensation of peace wash over her. Professor McGonagall was right. This was helping her. It felt like she was letting go.
At last, all the candles were in the air, and the sight of so many candles hurt her. She knew that many of them were repeats, since many people they had lost were significant to so many, but the fact that there were any losses at all made her sad. It just wasn't right.
"As these candles watch over us, so do the people they are attributed to," Professor McGonagall explained. "They are always with us in our minds and hearts. Remembering that will allow us to move on and pick up the broken pieces of our world. And that leads me to the next part of the ceremony: rebuilding. It has come to my attention that petty House rivalries are at an all time high, and while the upper years have done nothing to provoke this, I am disappointed to say the lower years have not followed their lead. That is why we will be engaging in trust-forming activities. You will be assigned a rather large group based on our observations of your interactions. These groups have already been created and are not subject to change, no matter how many complaints you make."
Hermione was filled with sudden dread at that statement. If McGonagall was worried enough about the groups that she would warn them, what did that mean for her? She bit her lip in anticipation.
"Now, these groups are sorted by your general age group, so not everyone will be in the same year. Also, there will be four people from each house, creating groups of sixteen. This might be a bit overwhelming, but it is what it is." The Headmistress explained. With a snap of her fingers, papers appeared in each student's hands. "On your slip of paper is your group and where you will convene now. You will being playing a Muggle game, called Never Have I Ever, to get you started. After a couple rounds, you will switch to a new activity that many of you might find rather ridiculous. If you did not know, each type of flower has a meaning. You are to look at the flowers around you and pick one that has a meaning you'd like to convey to the group. You may also choose flowers for specific people, if you have a message that only applies to them. If you do not know the meanings of any of the flowers, books will be sent down. Have fun, and do try to get along.Each group will play a Muggle game called Never Have I Ever, to get to know each other.
"After a couple rounds, you will each be doing something that many of you will find rather awkward. If you did not know, each type of flower has a meaning. You are to look at the flowers around you and pick one that has a meaning you'd like to convey to the group. You may also choose flowers for specific people, if you have a message that only applies to them. If you do not know the meanings of any of the flowers, books will be sent down. "
Hermione looked down at her paper, seeing everyone else doing the same with her peripheral vision. It was very precise and to the point. It said:
Meeting spot: Anywhere in the stretch of land between the Black Lake and the Forbidden Forest. You are a trusted group of individuals who can handle yourselves there.
Group:
Gryffindor- Hermione Granger, Harry Potter, Ron & Ginny Weasley
Hufflepuff- Hannah Abbott, Susan Bones, Justin Finch-Fletchley, Ernie Macmillan
Ravenclaw- Anthony Goldstein, Luna Lovegood, Padma Patil, Lisa Turpin
Slytherin- Daphne Greengrass, Draco Malfoy, Pansy Parkinson, Blaise Zabini
Remember, there are no changes. This is your group. This is a rather special group. You were all in the very thick of things, but you seem to already have put some of your differences behind you. I'm very proud of the maturity you have shown. Have fun, and do try to get along.
Hermione was frozen. She was fine until she read the Slytherins in their group. Of course they got the worst of the bunch! Sure, Harry and Malfoy had a called a truce, with the rest of them following their lead, but it only worked because they ignored each other! This didn't seem like it would work. Looking up at the other three Gryffindors in her group, she gave them an uneasy smile and stood, leading the way outside. Many others throughout the hall were doing the same.
~~~~~
Clearing Between Black Lake and Forbidden Forest
Looking at the assembled group, Hermione couldn't help but feel awkward in the silence. Everyone was watching the others warily, waiting to see who would first make a move.They were all sizing each other up.
A cough sounded to her left, and Hermione looked over to a slightly blushing Lisa Turpin. She gave the girl a curious glance, which was answered by her stuttering question.
"Um… McGonagall mentioned a Muggle game called Never Have I Ever, I think? Well,, you see, I've never heard of it so could you explain it? Please?"
Hermione smiled slightly at the pureblood, noticing the others look at her in interest as to how she would explain.
"Well, Lisa, the game is simple, really. It’s a Muggle drinking game, but I doubt Professor McGonagall would want drinking students on school grounds. I suppose we can just fill goblets with water…" She trailed off, noticing she was getting weird looks from the Slytherins.
"What?" She asked defensively, wondering what their problem was.
"Sorry," Zabini said, smirking slightly. "It’s just that we were wondering why you of all people would know drinking games, Granger."
Hermione smirked slightly. "I guess there's more to me than what you think."
The Italian smirked back as an almost instinctive response, although he was surprised. He would have expected a more flustered reply from the Gryffindor. That just proved her statement. "Well, we'll have to fix that. Shall we?"
"We shall," she said. With that, she led the group into an explanation, and started the game.
"Ok, I’ll go first. Um.. never have I ever played in a Hogwarts Quidditch game, I suppose."
Around the circle, all the Quidditch players took a sip.
Hermione nodded to show that they did well. Then she was hit by sudden inspiration. What if someone lied? They couldn’t have that. This was supposed to be a trust-forging experience. Discreetly pulling out her wand, Hermione nonverbally cast a truth-enforcing spell that she had picked up during the war.
Nobody noticed, and the game continued without a hitch. As games such as this usually do, it quickly turned to more risqué topics. It began with Ginny, a glint in her eye, as she said, "Never have I ever kissed someone...of the same sex."
Hermione just huffed in annoyance before knocking back her goblet, causing immediate silence.
"What?" She asked the group, blushing as many stared at her. Many others had taken a sip as well, but no one had been expecting Hermione Granger to. Ginny and Luna already knew, however. Luna had dared her to kiss Ginny back in her fifth year, and she was never one to back down from a dare.
"Nothing…" Ron said, looking at her as if he had never seen her before.
"There's definitely more to you than meets the eye, Granger." Parkinson said. "Maybe I was wrong to judge you. Maybe."
"I could say the same to you," Hermione replied.
"Well, look at this. The professors are going to be insufferably happy," Malfoy drawled, speaking up for the first time. "Although, this is getting interesting. Never thought I'd say that with this lot."
"Moving on!" Ernie yelled, pointing to the next person. They continued, the group opening up a little to each other as they went along. They were actually having fun, at least, as much as they could with all the suffering they had been through. And with Malfoy of people. Like Malfoy said, the professors would be pleased.
Hermione Luna, and Malfoy somehow all tied, finishing their drinks at the same time. They had succeeded in getting to know each other, enough to rethink their perceptions of each other. After the game, they started the next task. They split off as the hunt began, deciding to meet back in half an hour. Hermione went off on her quest to get the perfect flower.
A few minutes later, she stumbled into a little patch of flowers packed with all sorts of options. Hermione, finishing all her summer work one summer and having nothing else to do for a time, had decided to do her best to memorize flower meanings. She had done it just for fun, sure that it wouldn’t really come in handy. But it had.
Looking through all the flowers, she found she couldn’t really decide. They all only sort of fit the situation and the message of remembrance and peace she wanted to share. She was about to turn away, when a small white bloom caught her eye. Turning back again, she parted the surrounding flowers until she saw the white one clearly. She sucked in a breath as she recalled the meanings of the poppy flower, a white one specifically. It was perfect, meant to mean remembrance of those fallen in battle and a message of strength. It was a great message for a bunch of war veterans.
Heading back, she saw that their 30 minutes was almost over, and the rest of the group was trickling back to the picnic bench they had been sitting at. Everyone had at least one bloom in hand, as was required, but some had multiple. She was interested at some of the meanings people had chosen as their message. Going around, they each shared the ones addressed to the group at large, each one as heartwarming as the last. Then broke, they off to give out the individual flowers more privately.
"Granger," Malfoy called out. Hermione was surprised that she was approached by Malfoy, rather than him approaching Harry. The blond always seemed to have more of a problem with him.
"Yes Malfoy?" She asked, watching him carefully. It was obvious he had a flower for her, but she was curious as to what it could be. His flower for the group was a purple hyacinth, which she knew he conjured, since it didn’t grow in May. However, she appreciated it all the same. Purple hyacinths represented regret and a beg for forgiveness. It was indeed a good message for the redemption-seeking Slytherin.
"I know I already apologized to the group at large, but I was always especially awful to you. I'm planning on giving Potter and Weasley a flower too, no matter how bloody weird that's going to be. But I'm giving you one first, because I think I've done the worst things I could to you." He explained. He handed her three daffodils that he had collected, each one as beautiful and fresh as the last. They smelled amazing, too.
"Thanks, Malfoy. Really though, it's okay," she reassured him. "I may not have accepted it before, but I forgave you as soon as I saw that you were trying to change. And you already have changed so much. I don't know you that well, or even at all, but I can tell becoming a better person. Just the fact that you want to make amends is proof."
She could see in his eyes that her words had struck a chord, but he quickly shoved it aside. Shaking her head, she smiled. Even if he had changed, that smirk was a permanent part of Draco Malfoy.
"And do you know the full meaning of daffodils?" Malfoy asked her curiously.
"Yes, they symbolize inner reflection, a beg for forgiveness, and a hope to start a friendship. I think it's a very fitting message for the two of us," Hermione affirmed. "I do think we should try being civil, before we go full on best friends, don't you think?"
Laughing at that, Malfoy agreed, and continued on his journey of flowery redemption.
Hermione smiled softly, happy that they hadn't ended a conversation with a shouting match, for once. The teachers would be pleased. Somehow, she was pleased too.
She sighed, then. It had only been a year, and the wounds were only just starting to mend, but progress had been made that day. The wizarding world was going to be okay.
They were going to be okay.
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Summer - Gladiolus
July 30 1999
Ministry of Magic
Atrium
Hermione was in a hurry to get home. It was Harry's birthday tomorrow, and she had to be completely prepared. She was already prepared, of course, but triple-checking never hurt anyone, now did it? Mentally reviewing her checklist, she didn't notice the man walking right in front of her until it was too late.
"Gah, I'm so sorry, Malfoy!" Hermione said from where she had fallen on the floor. Malfoy stood in front of her, his Seeker reflexes insuring he didn't fall.
"It's alright, Granger. We all have some faults; I suppose clumsiness is one of yours," Malfoy joked in reply, offering her a hand up.
"Ha bloody ha, Malfoy. What about you? Your flaw is obviously your ridiculously large ego. I think that's why we just crashed. With an ego that size, it's a wonder that you can move at all," Hermione retorted, accepting his hand and brushing herself off.
Malfoy just snorted in reply - an aristocratic sound that made Hermione insanely jealous. How come the noise that made her sound like an asthmatic pig made him sound so refined? It wasn't fair.
Internally pouting, Hermione directed her attention back to Malfoy, who was holding her bag in an offering gesture. He looked amused.
"What?" She asked, confused. She didn't think she'd done anything weird. Out loud, that was.
"I called you four times, Granger. Off in your own little world, are you?" He said, smirking. Hermione blushed as she grabbed her bag from his hand and quickly walked towards the fireplaces, trying to hide her embarrassment. The sound of Malfoy’s laughter followed her.
"Why are you in such a rush, Granger? Got a train you need to catch?" He called out from behind her.
"I need to wrap Harry’s present, for his birthday party tomorrow," she informed him, slowing down so he could catch up. "You're invited, aren't you?"
"Yes, I was given an invite. Seems being Potter’s colleague means I get to be his new best friend. I feel blessed to be regarded so highly by Saint Potter," Draco replied sarcastically. "And don't lie, you wrapped his present three days ago!"
"And how would you know that? Have you been stalking me, Malfoy?" Hermione asked.
"No, sorry, you're not that interesting, Granger," he retorted. "You made me choose the wrapping paper, then wrapped it in my office. You took up the whole desk. I couldn't get any paperwork done," he said with a fake pout.
"You look ridiculous. Wait, how could I detect a difference; you always look ridiculous," Hermione stated as they reached the fireplaces.
"Ha bloody ha, Granger. I'll see you and your wit tomorrow. Don't forget to re-wrap your presents," Malfoy said from the fireplace he was in front of.
"Bye Malfoy," She replied, throwing the powder down at her feet and calling out her destination. With a flash of emerald green, Hermione was whisked away to her flat.
The interaction would surprise many; after all, a Malfoy and a Muggle-born getting along wasn't common. However, things had changed. People had changed. She and Malfoy had been forced to get along more and more ever since they both had joined the Ministry.
After changing into her night clothes and eating some leftovers for dinner, Hermione sat down to read up on her next case. She was a lawyer for the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, which was why she and Malfoy interacted so much these days. He was an Auror, and he was Harry’s partner, which was why most of their cases went to her.
As she pulled out the case file from her bag, something dropped out. Picking it up, she noticed it was a gladiolus flower, attached with a note card. Holding the note card, she noticed it was made of very intricate cardstock, in a lovely creme color. It was very beautiful, and expensive. Whoever sent this had put a lot of money into it. Reading it, she became even more intrigued, for all it said was this:
I’ll be at the party tomorrow, perhaps you can figure out who I am. I'll give you a clue-I'll be the one thinking about you.
-Your Secret Admirer
The flower was also perfect, in Hermione’s opinion, meant to represent an infatuation with someone with great strength of character, someone with great integrity and sincerity. Hermione was flattered someone thought so highly of her.
"Well, whoever it is, they sure have a way with words," Hermione said to herself. She then looked down at her work, uncharacteristically deciding it could wait. With that thought in mind, she headed to bed to think about everyone she had interacted with today that would be at the party. She had a mystery to solve.
~~~~~31 July 1999
Diagon Alley
The Leaky Cauldron
The party was in full swing. Some people were dancing in the center of the room, which had been cleared away for that very reason. Others were sitting and talking to those around them with drinks in hand. Laughter could be heard from all around the room. Everyone was having a blast, Hermione included, although her mind wasn't completely at the party. Rather, it was in her living room, where she had put the flower in a vase and placed a spell on it so it would always remain fresh.
Surveying the room, she once again went over her mental list of possible senders.
The people in here that I interacted with yesterday that aren't already in a relationship are Blaise, Theo, Ernie, Daphne, Parkinson, Susan, and Malfoy. I saw Blaise and Theo all day because we were helping each other with our cases, so plenty of opportunities there. Ernie was much too frazzled with all the paperwork to talk for long. He's out. Daphne and Susan are both bisexual, and we had a nice lunch with Ginny, so they're possibilities. Pansy is a possibility too, but I'm almost positive she's chasing Ron after spending so much time as his Auror partner, so she's out. And Malfoy is just unlikely, but he had the opportunity, so maybe. That leaves Blaise, Theo, Daphne, and Malfoy. Hmm…
"Hermione? Hermione?!" Ginny said snapping her finger in front of her friend’s face. When her eyes came back into focus, Ginny said, "Whatever you were thinking about must be juicy for you to be so out of it."
"I sort of... have secret admirer," Hermione rushed out, hoping Ginny wouldn't freak out.
"What?!" The redhead screeched. Hermione cringed at the looks they were getting. Quickly shushing her friend, she pulled them into a more secluded corner to talk.
"When I got home last night, there was a flower in my bag, with a note saying they would be here. I've narrowed it down to Blaise, Theo, Daphne, Susan, and Malfoy, but I don't know where to go on from there," she explained, causing Ginny to take on a thoughtful expression.
"Well… I have it on good authority that Blaise and Luna started seeing each other two days ago, so he can't be it," Ginny said, contemplating the possibilities. "And I think during lunch today Daphne and Susan were flirting so they're both off the list, probably. That leaves Nott and Malfoy, as unlikely as those are."
"Well, thanks Ginny. You've saved me loads of time," Hermione said appreciatively.
"Anything to help my best friend get the man she deserves," Ginny replied affectionately.
"Thanks Gin. Well, that's enough investigating for today. Let's go celebrate our favorite Potter," Hermione said, returning to the festivities with new ideas for who her secret admirer could be. She couldn't wait to see what they did next.
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Autumn - Amaryllis Belladonna
26 October 1999
Ministry of Magic
Department of Magical Law Enforcement
Hermione felt unusually depressed. She had had another failed blind date last night, and it was affecting her work. Many had picked up on her sullen mood.
"Alright there, Hermione?" Theodore Nott asked his colleague and friend as he watched her sign in distress for the fifth time.
"I'm fine, Theo. Just another failed attempt at romance. I just wonder if I'm going to end up old with only my cats for company, you know?" Hermione replied.
"Yeah, I do," he said sympathetically. "But there's someone out there for you, I just know it."
With a small smile at him, Hermione turned back to her work, thinking about his words. The thing was, there was someone out there, but they preferred for her not to know their identity. It was infuriating for Hermione, especially since her admirer hadn't sent another flower since the gladiolus. She had tried to study her two main leads, Theo and Malfoy, but they were aggravatingly good at hiding their thoughts and emotions. She just had to wait to see if her admirer would reveal themselves.
~~~~~
Later that day
Muggle London
Hermione’s Flat
Today seemed to be Hermione’s lucky day. Another flower was waiting at her doorstep when she got home, with another note. She quickly brought both inside and studied the flower. It was a beautiful amaryllis belladonna, which meant the sender thought of the receiver as a beautiful, self-confident woman who should take pride in herself. Hermione was amazed at how adept her admirer was at sending the most thoughtful messages through the most beautiful flowers. Caught up in her excitement of the flower, she turned to the note and read.
I've heard you've been having dating troubles lately. I fear I may have something to do with it, and that I'm upsetting you by waiting in the shadows, but I'm afraid to. I'm afraid that as soon as you see who I am, you'll toss me aside for everything I've done. So I'm giving the choice to you. I've enchanted this card so if you want to know who I am, all you have to do is ask below, and my name and floor address will be revealed to you so we can talk. I know you'd want to do something like that. I'll be waiting...
Hermione could hardly believe it. After thinking about it for months, she never thought her admirer would actually offer to talk. They really did know her well. Scrambling for the nearest writing utensil to send back a positive reply, Hermione couldn't help but feel the adrenaline pumping through her veins in anticipation.
As the ink from her EverInk quill dried onto the card, she held her breath for the final verdict.
Draco Malfoy
Floo Address: Earth Cottage
Hermione Flooed straight over.
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Winter - Pansy
1 January 2001
Wiltshire
Earth Cottage
Hermione couldn't sleep. She had tried to, she really had, but the land of dreams-which hadn't been interrupted by nightmares in six months, a record for her-had eluded her. Draco had said he had an errand to run, but Hermione wanted her boyfriend to come back to their shared home. They had immediately clicked as a couple after their talk in October two years before, something neither of them had expected but were very pleased with. Hermione couldn't be happier, if only her boyfriend came home.
A few moments later, she heard their bedroom door opening and saw his familiar platinum blond head come through the door.
"Hey," she said, looking up from the the case file in her lap. She had pulled it out while she waited for him.
"Hey. I got you something," he said quietly, pulling out a beautiful white pansy flower that turned violet at the edges and dropping a quick kiss on her lips. Studying it, she remembered that pansies of certain colors meant specific things. These colors together meant a want to take a chance on one’s passionate feelings because they trusted the person. Not looking up from the flower’s beauty, she asked, "What do you mean by taking a chance, Draco?" When she was met with silence, she called him again, looking at him this time.
"Draco? What-" she was cut off by her sudden gasp, as Draco was down on one knee with a velvet box open in his hands, a beautiful ring sparkling inside.
"I know it's only been a year, and it seems quick, but you're it for me, Hermione. I'm hopelessly in love with you, and no flower could ever express that. But I have to try to show how much I need you, how much you mean to me, if you'll let me. I plan on giving you flowers every day, each one to try and show you how amazing you are. I love you, Hermione Jean Granger, and my only wish is to spend the rest of my life giving you flowers, knowing none of them would ever match your perfection. Will let me? Will you marry me?" Draco asked, staring up at her in terrified anticipation.
Unable to speak because of the sudden onslaught of emotions, Hermione could only nod as he slid the ring on her finger. She grabbed her new fiancé by the collar and pulled him into a time-stopping kiss, happy tears falling down her face onto the flower clutched between them, a symbol of what brought them together; flowers.
Author: slythindorships
Prompt: # H33
Pairing(s): Draco/Hermione
Word Count: 5,350
Rating: PG-13
Warning(s): N/A
Disclaimer: Harry Potter characters are the property of J.K. Rowling and Bloomsbury/Scholastic. No profit is being made, and no copyright infringement is intended.
Notes: Thank you to the mods for answering my questions, as this is my first ever fest, and thank you to my beta and real life friend, Lexi, for sticking with me through my erratic writing process! And thank you, wonderful reader, for clicking on my story and giving me a chance. Also, titles aren't my forte and puns aren't either so I'm sorry for the monstrosity the title is.
Summary: Hermione and Draco were never friends, and it seemed impossible to be anything more. But four meaningful flowers had the power to change that.
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Spring - Daffodils
1 May 1999
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Gryffindor Common Room
Hermione couldn't sleep. She had tried to, she really had, but the land of dreams-or rather, nightmares-had eluded her. It was 10 minutes until midnight, which meant ten minutes until the day she, and everyone else, had been dreading. It wasn't the day itself, but the events of it one year ago, that haunted them. They had won the war, but they had lost so many…that night had been filled with such horror and terror and above all, a raging fire to survive, to live to see the sunrise another day.
Hermione shuddered at the memories all bombarding her at once, memories of fear. Pure unadulterated fear.
She shoved them all in the mental box she had labeled "Do Not Open" before she could be too overwhelmed. She couldn't delve back into those memories. It just wouldn't do for her to fall apart.
"Hermione?" A voice questioned from the stairs. "What are you doing down here?"
Hermione didn't have to turn around to know who it was. She knew that voice and who it belonged to better than she knew almost anything.
"I could ask the same to you, Harry," she said, looking up as her bespectacled friend came over to the couch she was lying on. "Let me guess. You couldn't sleep?"
When he only nodded at her question, she gave him a sympathetic smile, lifting her feet and gesturing for him to sit down. He quickly followed her silent instructions, sitting down as Hermione rested her feet lightly on his lap.
To anyone watching them, they would appear to be a couple, but to anyone who knew them, the very thought was ludicrous. She, Harry, and Ron were like siblings, and the idea of being romantically involved with either of the two people she considered brothers was just ridiculous. They felt the same.
Hermione shook her head at the random turn her thoughts had taken, focusing her attention on Harry instead.
"We'll be okay, Harry. Tomorrow is only a day, and after the ceremony, we don't have to do anything," Hermione comforted the agitated raven-haired boy-no, man; he could hardly be called a boy after all they'd been through-and smiled slightly as he relaxed with her words.
Now, to sleep, so she could be fully prepared, mentally and emotionally, for the ceremony Hogwarts was holding tomorrow to honor those who had died for them, and to help heal old wounds. That was what life was about for everyone now; hurting, healing, and rebuilding. Hermione would try her hardest to heal and to help others heal as well. The wizarding world needed to reach the next step, rebuilding, at some point, or everything they had fought for would be for absolutely nothing. With those thoughts, Hermione was finally able to drift off, Harry following her into blissful slumber.
~~~~~
2 May 1999
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Great Hall
The chime of a spoon hitting a glass silenced the students immediately, although it was pretty quiet anyway. Professor McGonagall rose to speak.
"Thank you. Now as you know, we are all here today because of the great deeds of our friends and family, the ultimate sacrifice they made so we could stand here now," she began, straight to the point. "Our world has suffered far too much, for far too long. Our numbers are dwindling. If we continue to fight each other, what would be the point? We fought a huge war, and won, but at great cost. We must repair our society. We are all hurting, but a time must come for us to move on, and rebuild. Our time to heal is now. All students and my fellow professors, please stand."
Quickly getting up, Hermione surveyed the standing student body.
Everyone had been forced to redo the previous year of school, the Ministry and Board of Governors agreeing that the last year was hardly acceptable as a school year.
Back to the ceremony, Hermione.
Paying attention to the Headmistress, Hermione caught what she was saying.
"This ceremony will be in two parts. First, we shall honor those who died for us," she said. "No matter what side they were on." This statement was uttered with a glance at the Slytherin table, the most subdued table of them all. A few its students sent glares up at the teacher's table, annoyed at being indirectly called out. Most just seemed to ignore what was happening, especially the returning seventh years. The ones that, like Hermione, had been in the thick of things during the war. They were all sitting in the corner closest to the exit, as if they wanted to escape. Hermione could understand that. She felt the same way these days.
"If you could direct your attention to your table, you will notice many baskets have just appeared," McGonagall began. "These baskets are filled with candles. There are enough for each person in this room with plenty to spare. You will write the name of someone who was lost through the entirety of both wars, even if you did not know them. If they meant something to you, you may like to honor them in this way. Afterwards, you will light your candle with your wand. For those who can't, look to your peers for help. Then, place your candle in your hands and release it into the air. It will float upwards until everyone's candles are in the air. From this, we will be acknowledging who we lost, and we can release our pain as we release the candles into the air."
After hearing the professor’s explanation, Hermione set to work. She quietly wrote down the names of the ones she had lost, starting with Lily and James Potter. Even though she knew almost nothing about them, they meant a great deal to Harry, and therefore meant a great deal to her. Harry saw what she was doing, and was filled with affection for his best friend. She truly was wonderful.
Hermione set the candles aflame, and released them into the air, two of the first floating candles of what promised to be many more. After that, she continued on in chronological order, feeling a slight sensation of peace wash over her. Professor McGonagall was right. This was helping her. It felt like she was letting go.
At last, all the candles were in the air, and the sight of so many candles hurt her. She knew that many of them were repeats, since many people they had lost were significant to so many, but the fact that there were any losses at all made her sad. It just wasn't right.
"As these candles watch over us, so do the people they are attributed to," Professor McGonagall explained. "They are always with us in our minds and hearts. Remembering that will allow us to move on and pick up the broken pieces of our world. And that leads me to the next part of the ceremony: rebuilding. It has come to my attention that petty House rivalries are at an all time high, and while the upper years have done nothing to provoke this, I am disappointed to say the lower years have not followed their lead. That is why we will be engaging in trust-forming activities. You will be assigned a rather large group based on our observations of your interactions. These groups have already been created and are not subject to change, no matter how many complaints you make."
Hermione was filled with sudden dread at that statement. If McGonagall was worried enough about the groups that she would warn them, what did that mean for her? She bit her lip in anticipation.
"Now, these groups are sorted by your general age group, so not everyone will be in the same year. Also, there will be four people from each house, creating groups of sixteen. This might be a bit overwhelming, but it is what it is." The Headmistress explained. With a snap of her fingers, papers appeared in each student's hands. "On your slip of paper is your group and where you will convene now. You will being playing a Muggle game, called Never Have I Ever, to get you started. After a couple rounds, you will switch to a new activity that many of you might find rather ridiculous. If you did not know, each type of flower has a meaning. You are to look at the flowers around you and pick one that has a meaning you'd like to convey to the group. You may also choose flowers for specific people, if you have a message that only applies to them. If you do not know the meanings of any of the flowers, books will be sent down. Have fun, and do try to get along.Each group will play a Muggle game called Never Have I Ever, to get to know each other.
"After a couple rounds, you will each be doing something that many of you will find rather awkward. If you did not know, each type of flower has a meaning. You are to look at the flowers around you and pick one that has a meaning you'd like to convey to the group. You may also choose flowers for specific people, if you have a message that only applies to them. If you do not know the meanings of any of the flowers, books will be sent down. "
Hermione looked down at her paper, seeing everyone else doing the same with her peripheral vision. It was very precise and to the point. It said:
Meeting spot: Anywhere in the stretch of land between the Black Lake and the Forbidden Forest. You are a trusted group of individuals who can handle yourselves there.
Group:
Gryffindor- Hermione Granger, Harry Potter, Ron & Ginny Weasley
Hufflepuff- Hannah Abbott, Susan Bones, Justin Finch-Fletchley, Ernie Macmillan
Ravenclaw- Anthony Goldstein, Luna Lovegood, Padma Patil, Lisa Turpin
Slytherin- Daphne Greengrass, Draco Malfoy, Pansy Parkinson, Blaise Zabini
Remember, there are no changes. This is your group. This is a rather special group. You were all in the very thick of things, but you seem to already have put some of your differences behind you. I'm very proud of the maturity you have shown. Have fun, and do try to get along.
Hermione was frozen. She was fine until she read the Slytherins in their group. Of course they got the worst of the bunch! Sure, Harry and Malfoy had a called a truce, with the rest of them following their lead, but it only worked because they ignored each other! This didn't seem like it would work. Looking up at the other three Gryffindors in her group, she gave them an uneasy smile and stood, leading the way outside. Many others throughout the hall were doing the same.
~~~~~
Clearing Between Black Lake and Forbidden Forest
Looking at the assembled group, Hermione couldn't help but feel awkward in the silence. Everyone was watching the others warily, waiting to see who would first make a move.They were all sizing each other up.
A cough sounded to her left, and Hermione looked over to a slightly blushing Lisa Turpin. She gave the girl a curious glance, which was answered by her stuttering question.
"Um… McGonagall mentioned a Muggle game called Never Have I Ever, I think? Well,, you see, I've never heard of it so could you explain it? Please?"
Hermione smiled slightly at the pureblood, noticing the others look at her in interest as to how she would explain.
"Well, Lisa, the game is simple, really. It’s a Muggle drinking game, but I doubt Professor McGonagall would want drinking students on school grounds. I suppose we can just fill goblets with water…" She trailed off, noticing she was getting weird looks from the Slytherins.
"What?" She asked defensively, wondering what their problem was.
"Sorry," Zabini said, smirking slightly. "It’s just that we were wondering why you of all people would know drinking games, Granger."
Hermione smirked slightly. "I guess there's more to me than what you think."
The Italian smirked back as an almost instinctive response, although he was surprised. He would have expected a more flustered reply from the Gryffindor. That just proved her statement. "Well, we'll have to fix that. Shall we?"
"We shall," she said. With that, she led the group into an explanation, and started the game.
"Ok, I’ll go first. Um.. never have I ever played in a Hogwarts Quidditch game, I suppose."
Around the circle, all the Quidditch players took a sip.
Hermione nodded to show that they did well. Then she was hit by sudden inspiration. What if someone lied? They couldn’t have that. This was supposed to be a trust-forging experience. Discreetly pulling out her wand, Hermione nonverbally cast a truth-enforcing spell that she had picked up during the war.
Nobody noticed, and the game continued without a hitch. As games such as this usually do, it quickly turned to more risqué topics. It began with Ginny, a glint in her eye, as she said, "Never have I ever kissed someone...of the same sex."
Hermione just huffed in annoyance before knocking back her goblet, causing immediate silence.
"What?" She asked the group, blushing as many stared at her. Many others had taken a sip as well, but no one had been expecting Hermione Granger to. Ginny and Luna already knew, however. Luna had dared her to kiss Ginny back in her fifth year, and she was never one to back down from a dare.
"Nothing…" Ron said, looking at her as if he had never seen her before.
"There's definitely more to you than meets the eye, Granger." Parkinson said. "Maybe I was wrong to judge you. Maybe."
"I could say the same to you," Hermione replied.
"Well, look at this. The professors are going to be insufferably happy," Malfoy drawled, speaking up for the first time. "Although, this is getting interesting. Never thought I'd say that with this lot."
"Moving on!" Ernie yelled, pointing to the next person. They continued, the group opening up a little to each other as they went along. They were actually having fun, at least, as much as they could with all the suffering they had been through. And with Malfoy of people. Like Malfoy said, the professors would be pleased.
Hermione Luna, and Malfoy somehow all tied, finishing their drinks at the same time. They had succeeded in getting to know each other, enough to rethink their perceptions of each other. After the game, they started the next task. They split off as the hunt began, deciding to meet back in half an hour. Hermione went off on her quest to get the perfect flower.
A few minutes later, she stumbled into a little patch of flowers packed with all sorts of options. Hermione, finishing all her summer work one summer and having nothing else to do for a time, had decided to do her best to memorize flower meanings. She had done it just for fun, sure that it wouldn’t really come in handy. But it had.
Looking through all the flowers, she found she couldn’t really decide. They all only sort of fit the situation and the message of remembrance and peace she wanted to share. She was about to turn away, when a small white bloom caught her eye. Turning back again, she parted the surrounding flowers until she saw the white one clearly. She sucked in a breath as she recalled the meanings of the poppy flower, a white one specifically. It was perfect, meant to mean remembrance of those fallen in battle and a message of strength. It was a great message for a bunch of war veterans.
Heading back, she saw that their 30 minutes was almost over, and the rest of the group was trickling back to the picnic bench they had been sitting at. Everyone had at least one bloom in hand, as was required, but some had multiple. She was interested at some of the meanings people had chosen as their message. Going around, they each shared the ones addressed to the group at large, each one as heartwarming as the last. Then broke, they off to give out the individual flowers more privately.
"Granger," Malfoy called out. Hermione was surprised that she was approached by Malfoy, rather than him approaching Harry. The blond always seemed to have more of a problem with him.
"Yes Malfoy?" She asked, watching him carefully. It was obvious he had a flower for her, but she was curious as to what it could be. His flower for the group was a purple hyacinth, which she knew he conjured, since it didn’t grow in May. However, she appreciated it all the same. Purple hyacinths represented regret and a beg for forgiveness. It was indeed a good message for the redemption-seeking Slytherin.
"I know I already apologized to the group at large, but I was always especially awful to you. I'm planning on giving Potter and Weasley a flower too, no matter how bloody weird that's going to be. But I'm giving you one first, because I think I've done the worst things I could to you." He explained. He handed her three daffodils that he had collected, each one as beautiful and fresh as the last. They smelled amazing, too.
"Thanks, Malfoy. Really though, it's okay," she reassured him. "I may not have accepted it before, but I forgave you as soon as I saw that you were trying to change. And you already have changed so much. I don't know you that well, or even at all, but I can tell becoming a better person. Just the fact that you want to make amends is proof."
She could see in his eyes that her words had struck a chord, but he quickly shoved it aside. Shaking her head, she smiled. Even if he had changed, that smirk was a permanent part of Draco Malfoy.
"And do you know the full meaning of daffodils?" Malfoy asked her curiously.
"Yes, they symbolize inner reflection, a beg for forgiveness, and a hope to start a friendship. I think it's a very fitting message for the two of us," Hermione affirmed. "I do think we should try being civil, before we go full on best friends, don't you think?"
Laughing at that, Malfoy agreed, and continued on his journey of flowery redemption.
Hermione smiled softly, happy that they hadn't ended a conversation with a shouting match, for once. The teachers would be pleased. Somehow, she was pleased too.
She sighed, then. It had only been a year, and the wounds were only just starting to mend, but progress had been made that day. The wizarding world was going to be okay.
They were going to be okay.
----------------------------------
Summer - Gladiolus
July 30 1999
Ministry of Magic
Atrium
Hermione was in a hurry to get home. It was Harry's birthday tomorrow, and she had to be completely prepared. She was already prepared, of course, but triple-checking never hurt anyone, now did it? Mentally reviewing her checklist, she didn't notice the man walking right in front of her until it was too late.
"Gah, I'm so sorry, Malfoy!" Hermione said from where she had fallen on the floor. Malfoy stood in front of her, his Seeker reflexes insuring he didn't fall.
"It's alright, Granger. We all have some faults; I suppose clumsiness is one of yours," Malfoy joked in reply, offering her a hand up.
"Ha bloody ha, Malfoy. What about you? Your flaw is obviously your ridiculously large ego. I think that's why we just crashed. With an ego that size, it's a wonder that you can move at all," Hermione retorted, accepting his hand and brushing herself off.
Malfoy just snorted in reply - an aristocratic sound that made Hermione insanely jealous. How come the noise that made her sound like an asthmatic pig made him sound so refined? It wasn't fair.
Internally pouting, Hermione directed her attention back to Malfoy, who was holding her bag in an offering gesture. He looked amused.
"What?" She asked, confused. She didn't think she'd done anything weird. Out loud, that was.
"I called you four times, Granger. Off in your own little world, are you?" He said, smirking. Hermione blushed as she grabbed her bag from his hand and quickly walked towards the fireplaces, trying to hide her embarrassment. The sound of Malfoy’s laughter followed her.
"Why are you in such a rush, Granger? Got a train you need to catch?" He called out from behind her.
"I need to wrap Harry’s present, for his birthday party tomorrow," she informed him, slowing down so he could catch up. "You're invited, aren't you?"
"Yes, I was given an invite. Seems being Potter’s colleague means I get to be his new best friend. I feel blessed to be regarded so highly by Saint Potter," Draco replied sarcastically. "And don't lie, you wrapped his present three days ago!"
"And how would you know that? Have you been stalking me, Malfoy?" Hermione asked.
"No, sorry, you're not that interesting, Granger," he retorted. "You made me choose the wrapping paper, then wrapped it in my office. You took up the whole desk. I couldn't get any paperwork done," he said with a fake pout.
"You look ridiculous. Wait, how could I detect a difference; you always look ridiculous," Hermione stated as they reached the fireplaces.
"Ha bloody ha, Granger. I'll see you and your wit tomorrow. Don't forget to re-wrap your presents," Malfoy said from the fireplace he was in front of.
"Bye Malfoy," She replied, throwing the powder down at her feet and calling out her destination. With a flash of emerald green, Hermione was whisked away to her flat.
The interaction would surprise many; after all, a Malfoy and a Muggle-born getting along wasn't common. However, things had changed. People had changed. She and Malfoy had been forced to get along more and more ever since they both had joined the Ministry.
After changing into her night clothes and eating some leftovers for dinner, Hermione sat down to read up on her next case. She was a lawyer for the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, which was why she and Malfoy interacted so much these days. He was an Auror, and he was Harry’s partner, which was why most of their cases went to her.
As she pulled out the case file from her bag, something dropped out. Picking it up, she noticed it was a gladiolus flower, attached with a note card. Holding the note card, she noticed it was made of very intricate cardstock, in a lovely creme color. It was very beautiful, and expensive. Whoever sent this had put a lot of money into it. Reading it, she became even more intrigued, for all it said was this:
I’ll be at the party tomorrow, perhaps you can figure out who I am. I'll give you a clue-I'll be the one thinking about you.
-Your Secret Admirer
The flower was also perfect, in Hermione’s opinion, meant to represent an infatuation with someone with great strength of character, someone with great integrity and sincerity. Hermione was flattered someone thought so highly of her.
"Well, whoever it is, they sure have a way with words," Hermione said to herself. She then looked down at her work, uncharacteristically deciding it could wait. With that thought in mind, she headed to bed to think about everyone she had interacted with today that would be at the party. She had a mystery to solve.
~~~~~31 July 1999
Diagon Alley
The Leaky Cauldron
The party was in full swing. Some people were dancing in the center of the room, which had been cleared away for that very reason. Others were sitting and talking to those around them with drinks in hand. Laughter could be heard from all around the room. Everyone was having a blast, Hermione included, although her mind wasn't completely at the party. Rather, it was in her living room, where she had put the flower in a vase and placed a spell on it so it would always remain fresh.
Surveying the room, she once again went over her mental list of possible senders.
The people in here that I interacted with yesterday that aren't already in a relationship are Blaise, Theo, Ernie, Daphne, Parkinson, Susan, and Malfoy. I saw Blaise and Theo all day because we were helping each other with our cases, so plenty of opportunities there. Ernie was much too frazzled with all the paperwork to talk for long. He's out. Daphne and Susan are both bisexual, and we had a nice lunch with Ginny, so they're possibilities. Pansy is a possibility too, but I'm almost positive she's chasing Ron after spending so much time as his Auror partner, so she's out. And Malfoy is just unlikely, but he had the opportunity, so maybe. That leaves Blaise, Theo, Daphne, and Malfoy. Hmm…
"Hermione? Hermione?!" Ginny said snapping her finger in front of her friend’s face. When her eyes came back into focus, Ginny said, "Whatever you were thinking about must be juicy for you to be so out of it."
"I sort of... have secret admirer," Hermione rushed out, hoping Ginny wouldn't freak out.
"What?!" The redhead screeched. Hermione cringed at the looks they were getting. Quickly shushing her friend, she pulled them into a more secluded corner to talk.
"When I got home last night, there was a flower in my bag, with a note saying they would be here. I've narrowed it down to Blaise, Theo, Daphne, Susan, and Malfoy, but I don't know where to go on from there," she explained, causing Ginny to take on a thoughtful expression.
"Well… I have it on good authority that Blaise and Luna started seeing each other two days ago, so he can't be it," Ginny said, contemplating the possibilities. "And I think during lunch today Daphne and Susan were flirting so they're both off the list, probably. That leaves Nott and Malfoy, as unlikely as those are."
"Well, thanks Ginny. You've saved me loads of time," Hermione said appreciatively.
"Anything to help my best friend get the man she deserves," Ginny replied affectionately.
"Thanks Gin. Well, that's enough investigating for today. Let's go celebrate our favorite Potter," Hermione said, returning to the festivities with new ideas for who her secret admirer could be. She couldn't wait to see what they did next.
----------------------------------
Autumn - Amaryllis Belladonna
26 October 1999
Ministry of Magic
Department of Magical Law Enforcement
Hermione felt unusually depressed. She had had another failed blind date last night, and it was affecting her work. Many had picked up on her sullen mood.
"Alright there, Hermione?" Theodore Nott asked his colleague and friend as he watched her sign in distress for the fifth time.
"I'm fine, Theo. Just another failed attempt at romance. I just wonder if I'm going to end up old with only my cats for company, you know?" Hermione replied.
"Yeah, I do," he said sympathetically. "But there's someone out there for you, I just know it."
With a small smile at him, Hermione turned back to her work, thinking about his words. The thing was, there was someone out there, but they preferred for her not to know their identity. It was infuriating for Hermione, especially since her admirer hadn't sent another flower since the gladiolus. She had tried to study her two main leads, Theo and Malfoy, but they were aggravatingly good at hiding their thoughts and emotions. She just had to wait to see if her admirer would reveal themselves.
~~~~~
Later that day
Muggle London
Hermione’s Flat
Today seemed to be Hermione’s lucky day. Another flower was waiting at her doorstep when she got home, with another note. She quickly brought both inside and studied the flower. It was a beautiful amaryllis belladonna, which meant the sender thought of the receiver as a beautiful, self-confident woman who should take pride in herself. Hermione was amazed at how adept her admirer was at sending the most thoughtful messages through the most beautiful flowers. Caught up in her excitement of the flower, she turned to the note and read.
I've heard you've been having dating troubles lately. I fear I may have something to do with it, and that I'm upsetting you by waiting in the shadows, but I'm afraid to. I'm afraid that as soon as you see who I am, you'll toss me aside for everything I've done. So I'm giving the choice to you. I've enchanted this card so if you want to know who I am, all you have to do is ask below, and my name and floor address will be revealed to you so we can talk. I know you'd want to do something like that. I'll be waiting...
Hermione could hardly believe it. After thinking about it for months, she never thought her admirer would actually offer to talk. They really did know her well. Scrambling for the nearest writing utensil to send back a positive reply, Hermione couldn't help but feel the adrenaline pumping through her veins in anticipation.
As the ink from her EverInk quill dried onto the card, she held her breath for the final verdict.
Draco Malfoy
Floo Address: Earth Cottage
Hermione Flooed straight over.
----------------------------------
Winter - Pansy
1 January 2001
Wiltshire
Earth Cottage
Hermione couldn't sleep. She had tried to, she really had, but the land of dreams-which hadn't been interrupted by nightmares in six months, a record for her-had eluded her. Draco had said he had an errand to run, but Hermione wanted her boyfriend to come back to their shared home. They had immediately clicked as a couple after their talk in October two years before, something neither of them had expected but were very pleased with. Hermione couldn't be happier, if only her boyfriend came home.
A few moments later, she heard their bedroom door opening and saw his familiar platinum blond head come through the door.
"Hey," she said, looking up from the the case file in her lap. She had pulled it out while she waited for him.
"Hey. I got you something," he said quietly, pulling out a beautiful white pansy flower that turned violet at the edges and dropping a quick kiss on her lips. Studying it, she remembered that pansies of certain colors meant specific things. These colors together meant a want to take a chance on one’s passionate feelings because they trusted the person. Not looking up from the flower’s beauty, she asked, "What do you mean by taking a chance, Draco?" When she was met with silence, she called him again, looking at him this time.
"Draco? What-" she was cut off by her sudden gasp, as Draco was down on one knee with a velvet box open in his hands, a beautiful ring sparkling inside.
"I know it's only been a year, and it seems quick, but you're it for me, Hermione. I'm hopelessly in love with you, and no flower could ever express that. But I have to try to show how much I need you, how much you mean to me, if you'll let me. I plan on giving you flowers every day, each one to try and show you how amazing you are. I love you, Hermione Jean Granger, and my only wish is to spend the rest of my life giving you flowers, knowing none of them would ever match your perfection. Will let me? Will you marry me?" Draco asked, staring up at her in terrified anticipation.
Unable to speak because of the sudden onslaught of emotions, Hermione could only nod as he slid the ring on her finger. She grabbed her new fiancé by the collar and pulled him into a time-stopping kiss, happy tears falling down her face onto the flower clutched between them, a symbol of what brought them together; flowers.