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Chapter Text

A Tale of Ron and Hermione

 (President Granger)

Hermione Granger sighs as she sat on the bench outside the office of professor McGonagall’s office. She is frustrated because of the upcoming bloody Halloween Ball. She had to be present at the ball, not because she is the Head girl, it is because she is the president of the Student Council which was officially created by the Ministry of Magic to find the best upcoming talents who are capable of leading Britain as the best magical country of the Wizarding World.

She was one of the first student who was selected for the group, because of her habit of being at the top of the class in the last six academic years of her. Though it was a surprise for her when professor McGonagall called her and informed her that she wants her to be candidate from Gryffindor who will compete against the other candidates from the other three houses for the post of the president.

To be honest, she never expected herself to win as she never was the popular student, but as Merlin have blessed her that she got Harry Potter as her best friend. Harry is unofficially, the most popular student of Hogwarts.

His wonder of securing place in the quidditch team when he was just a firstie, and being the youngest seeker of the century was a huge endorsement for his famousness. Then in no less a time Gryffindor team became unbeatable and he was the best seeker of the Gryffindor team after Charlie Weasley left and being James Potter’s son, one of the most wealthy and successful businessman of the Wizarding World, has its own perks as he was showered with high class quidditch material by his quidditch enthusiast father.

Harry was one of the first ever person to befriend her. It was her first year and she had asked the way to the Platform 9¾ from the Potters and from there her friendship with Harry started and she believed that it is because of Harry, she had made friends in their year.

She had Lavender and Parvati, who at first did not liked her much but warmed later and they created a great bond together. Seamus and Dean are no exception as they were there for her before she befriended any female from Gryffindor house.

She had asked Harry for his help in the campaign for the voting and he had enthusiastically took part in her campaign for everyone’s glee and her embarrassment as he once created a wall sized poster of her, with bold words engraved on it.

VOTE FOR HERMIONE GRANGER

THE FUTURE OF THE WIZARDING WORLD

She still receives teasing for that incident. She surprisingly won the voting defeating the candidates of the other houses. Though it was hard work regarding the other candidates of the other houses were brilliant in themselves too.

Daphne Greengrass was the Slytherin candidate, she has the honorary title of the Hogwarts’ ice queen but is respected by many because of her unbiased views on everyone, even on the Gryffindors. She also received the best prefect award in their fifth year and she also beaten her to the top in the fifth class as she received one mark more than her in their Defense Against the Dark Arts O.W.L.s. Though she and Greengrass never had a real conversation, there is a unspoken mutual respect between them.

Terry Boot was the Ravenclaw candidate and he was also one of the best students academically in their year, but he is not much of a person of interacting and perhaps it was the reason he lost. She blessed Harry as he was the one who forced her to put her book down once and introduced her to the thing called fun or she would have faced the same fate as Boot.

Zacharias Smith, she laughed as Smith came into her mind, after all Smith was one of the main causes which made her the winner of the voting. Smith, though good in the academics, is not in the good graces of many people around Hogwarts, including his own house fellows.

Sweet Professor Sprout, certainly made a mistake choosing Smith as her house’s candidate. Perhaps she never heard of Smith’s infamousness between the students. He was disliked even in his own house by many and that is the reason they choose to vote for her as they didn’t know much about Boot and Greengrass must have faced the consequences of Professor Snape’s biasness toward the other houses.

“President,” said a soft voice, she turned her head and a fourth year Hufflepuff girl was standing there and the door of Professor McGonagall’s office is opened.

“Professor McGonagall has called you inside,” said the girl, Hermione nodded and stood up. She walked inside the office closing the door behind and noticed the girl has gone now.

“Miss Granger,” said a stern voice in greetings. Professor Minerva McGonagall is sitting behind her desk with a stern expression and her cat like eyes scanning her whole features. Professor McGonagall had given her the responsibility speech when she chosen her, the Gryffindor candidate. She had made sure Hermione fills the both responsibilities of Head Girl and President of Student Council decently.

“Good afternoon professor,” Hermione greeted back. Professor McGonagall nodded and motioned her to take a seat while she rummaged through some papers spread on her desk. It was something surprising to see, for Hermione at least as she had always noticed from their first year that there is no messiness you can expect from Professor McGonagall.

Though Hermione don’t eighter blame the old professor as there are at least fifty different sheets of papers around the table. Some of the sheets are the grading papers which are thrust into a register, and there are is a huge poster covering the whole table and everything present at the table is doing the work of hiding it. She can figure out the color of poster, it is dark blue reminiscing the color of night.

“So,” said Professor McGonagall a little firmly, indicating that whatever is going to discuss between them now means business. Hermione straightens her spine unconsciously.

“You must be busy with the preparation of the Halloween Ball nowadays, Miss Granger?” asked Professor McGonagall.

Hermione nodded stiffly, as the reminder that she, the Head Girl and the President of The Student Council, is dateless two days before the ball came into her mind.

“Then you must be also informed that even after upcoming the ball, you’re not going to have much free time,” Professor McGonagall said, and Hermione’s brows furrowed in confusion.

Noticing her expression, the professor sighed and dragged the poster up, which was hidden under the mess on the table until now.

The poster is large, a size of a huge television. And in the center of it, in huge bold words, there was written ‘THE DRAMA FESTIVAL’.

Hermione looked at the poster with a frown appearing on her face, but she suddenly turned into the expression of indifference.

Professor McGonagall rolled the poster and put it on the side of the table, not very tenderly. Which told Hermione, that the professor also isn’t pleased with this, whatever Drama activity it is.

“The Headmaster,” a frown of frustration appeared on Professor’s face, “had accepted the request of Professor Lockhart’s permission of hosting the Drama Festival this time at Hogwarts.”

Professor Lockhart?  When in the hell did that man became a professor. Gilderoy Lockhart was famously known for his roles in Wizarding Dramas since he passed out from Hogwarts. He was also known for the famous plays he had acted and directed himself, they were regarded as special because they were inspired from the old tales of Wizarding World.

She had a stupid crush on him when she was twelve, Parvati had shown her his photo and she always blessed merlin that she soon recovered from that crush, because Harry had made her life hell when he got the wind of her crush back then.

“Any questions, Miss Granger?” Professor McGonagall asked, breaking her musing.

She stared at her for a moment, Professor McGonagall raised her eyebrow. She blinked a little and realizing that she had been staring at the Transfiguration Professor’s face for five minutes.

“Uh-Ah, yes exactly,” she said awkwardly and mentally slapped herself realizing how dumbly she is speaking now. “Yes, professor. I mean when will Hogwarts is going to host this event?”

“It is going to be held this December. On 19^th of December before the start of Christmas holidays,” McGonagall said with her voice a little softer as she is going to inform her everything about the upcoming event.

“The Drama as I have informed is based on the famous ‘Tales of Beedle and Bard’,” said Professor McGonagall. “There will be five plays, which are based on the five stories of the book and the five stories will be played by the students of different years.”

“The third year students will start with the first play and other plays will be played by the students of following years in the chronological order,” McGonagall sighed a little which made Hermione feel that something horrible is coming.

“And,” the professor drawled a little, “all the arrangement of the festivals are the responsibility of The Student Council.”

“What? Why!?” she asked a little loudly and flinched when McGonagall sent a pierce glare on her volume.

“I mean, why!?” she asked softly.

“Because,” said Professor McGonagall softly, “Student Council’s work is to help students in increasing their skills, and by skill we didn’t only meant their academic skill but also their extracurricular skills which not only includes sports but other activities like drama too.”

Though the points her head of the house gave her are reasonable and adequate, but it still did not take the ridiculousness from the situation she’s stuck in.

“I know you are not pleased with the events but you must realize that it all is your responsibility as the President of the Council and I don’t want the Boards of Directors feel disappointed from the choice of the Hogwarts, now please go and rest Miss Granger. The ball is day after the tomorrow and you might need some rest because the tomorrow is going to be a hectic day for you.”

Professor’s words indicated that she’s not in a mood of a debate and is really tired. “You’re dismissed.”

Hermione stood up and after wishing the professor a good night she turned and left the professor’s office and strolled directly towards Gryffindor common room, where she thinks she might find her friends.

She nearly ran towards the seventh floor. Her mind is full of thoughts of the stupid Drama Festival which she had to prepare for nearly two months. Wasn’t the bloody Halloween Ball enough!? Her mind is screaming to itself and with the thought of Ball she got the reminder of the absence of a date and it will be pretty embarrassing if the president of the Council turned up alone for the Ball.

She huffed, she didn’t sign up for any stupid ball and drama fests. “Hippogriffe feathers!” she said the password rather loudly as the portraits around the entrance startled due to the loud voice of hers.

Entering the common room, she noticed that there are not many students present but the group of her friends was still present on the couches near the fireplace.

Dean was the one to notice her, “Hiya President!” he said cheerfully and everyone’s head turned towards her. They repeated Dean’s words as chipperly, “HIYA PRESIDENT!”, umm well too chipperly.

She walked and collapsed at the empty space beside Lavender and leaned on her, “Hectic day, I guess,” Lavender mused.

“Don’t even ask,” she muttered.

“Why does your voice sound so dull, deary?” asked Seamus teasingly, “Is it because our dear President still doesn’t have a date?” he laughed.

Hermione flipped the small cushion on Seamus’s face. Bullseye.

“You still didn’t find a date?” Lavender asked, a little disappointed as Hermione promised her that she will find a date by evening.

“I was so busy, first the preparation and all of the arrangement of the food which I had to arranged with the elves,” she closed her eyes and said tiredly, “I really didn’t got the time.”

“Too bad, because nearly everyone is booked now and you’re going to turn up alone,” Harry chipped in.

“Even Neville?” she asked.

“Yup! Didn’t we told you, Mister Longbottom is getting pretty cozy with certain Hufflepuff name Hannah Abbott.” Parvati said.

“Arrgh! What in the name of Merlin am I going to do now?” she asked desperately to her friends.

“You can spend the whole night talking to Luna though. She’ll be delighted to spend the Halloween night with you,” Harry sniggered, Hermione’s closed eyes shot wide open at the aspect of spending a whole night in the party with Luna.

Everyone laughed at her expression and she started to run her mind to at least find one date, so she will be spared having a night just of controlling the students and conversing about Luna’s antique.

“Well Hermione,” said Seamus loudly. “I would not have done it for someone else but after all you had a special place in my heart.”

He forwarded a thick book to her which she is encountering for the first time.

“What’s this?” she asked.

“It’s the yearbook, I stole it from McGonagall’s office,” she gasped and Harry shushed her, “So you might get some ideas from it.” Seamus said smugly, looking proud of himself on stealing the book from the office of keen-eyed Professor McGonagall.

The subject quickly diverted to the quidditch matches, leaving her and the yearbook alone. Though she was little uncomfortable as after all her ‘great’ friend had to steal it for her. She closed her eyes and started rummaging through pages and after a great search her eyes landed on one name, she knew who probably not had a date by now,

Ronald Weasley.  

Chapter Text

A Tale of Ron and Hermione

(Ron Weasley)

“All decorations are done?”

“Yes,”

“The food?”

“Check,”

“The beverages?”

“Already ordered, and yes, only the seventh-year students will be served alcoholic beverages,” said Anthony Goldstein, Ravenclaw prefect and the Vice President of the Student Council.

Hermione nodded, “Thanks Anthony,” she said smiling tiredly.

Anthony smiled back and asked, “So who is your date for tomorrow?”.

Hermione kept her face neutral but her stomach churned at the mention of her date for The Halloween Ball.

“Oh, I have someone in my mind but I haven’t asked the person yet,” she replied.

Anthony nodded and left after a little conversation of tomorrow’s Ball. Every member of their council took their leave after reporting about their assigned duties to her.

Padma, the other Ravenclaw prefect handed her the permission letter on which she had to get the signature of Headmaster Dumbledore for bringing the Firewhisky for tomorrow’s Ball.

She scanned the letter, and suddenly Padma asked, “So Hermione, who’re you bringing tomorrow?”.

Not again, she groaned internally, she looked up putting a fake smile on her face. She knew Padma must know about her lack of date as she is Parvati’s sister who hides nothing from her and she might be asking it to stick it to her. She loves Parvati, but she should not take talks between the friends outside of their circle.

“Oh, I have found one. Parvati didn’t tell you?” she asked, faking a frown.

A confused frown appeared on Padma’s face, “No she didn’t,” she whispered with disdain and Hermione smiled internally. Take that Parvati.

“Oh brilliant!” she said chipperly, “I’ll take this letter to Headmaster’s office. We don’t have much time. I should take his signature as soon as possible and then I had to hand it to the house elves who’ll bring the firewhiskey.”

She said quickly while swishing her wand and the abandoned and former charms classroom in the east wing which, Headmaster Dumbledore had extended by the extension charm and it is now a huge hall, it has same dimensions as the great hall and many of its features are as same as the great hall, except the ceiling of course.

She swished her wand and the torches went off, leaving the classroom turned hall into the half-darkness. Only the right corner is visible because of the windows.

She quickly took off, “Wait! Who’s your date?” she heard Padma shout after her, but she stalked off feigning that she didn’t hear anything.

She took a breath of relief as she walked towards Headmaster’s office. She really wanted someone to ask her to be his date and Colin Creevy did ask her. But she felt it would be really awkward for her to turn up at the Ball with a junior so she turned him down giving him her reason, and Colin understood well.

She now regrets turning him down now though, now she’s searching for a date in her yearbook of all places. By the mention of yearbook,

Ron Weasley.

She sighs as she thought of the idea of Ron Weasley being her date. At first, she thought it was ridiculous idea and dismissed it as quickly as it came into her mind. But now, when there is no option left, she thinks of reconsider her idea of Ronald Weasley being her date.

Going on a date with Ron Weasley, will be attracting a huge gossiping trail on your back, because Weasley is rather infamous since his first year.

He doesn’t have many friends. He usually stays alone. He’s average in academics except potions of course. Weasley having no friend is rather surprising because his elder brothers were very famous at Hogwarts during their time at Hogwarts. Even his little sister, Ginny Weasley has made a name for herself as Gryffindor’s leading chaser and is very famed among the students.

Weasley was always a troubled personality during the first three years of Hogwarts. She still remembered how much of a snappish person he was, when she met him for the first time. No student during their starting years approached Weasley because of his moody behaviors. He was always snapping or growling in anger at anyone who bothers him the most.

Though she also had a very bad encounter with him on the day of Halloween during their charm class. They both were seated alongside each other, it started with the simple technique of levitation charm which he was doing wrong, and she tried to help him but he didn’t take it well. By the end of the class and she was on his nerves when she reminded him of practicing again, but it might be the bossiness in her voice which he took as offence and a shouting match started between them.

Luckily Harry was there that day and he sorted out the matter before a teacher can intervene. But more surprising thing was Weasley leaving at once when Harry asked him to. She had heard that Harry and Weasley’s families are close, they both also share Sirius Black as their godfather. She always found it surprising that they both are not friends.

Though the most time any person who had provoked Weasley was Draco Malfoy. He likes to provoke him on purpose, sneering and taunting him about his family’s financial conditions or his robes, which are always rather shabby, though sometimes he crosses his limits and gets his reprisal by a punch or a hex.

There was ugly spat in their third year. It was the third year and Arthur Weasley was promoted as the Head of Muggle Artifacts Department and there was a article in the Daily Prophet with a picture of their house. Malfoy started it by reading aloud the article for everyone in the hall and giving his own commentary in between. Ronald was the only Weasley there at that moment. Things went too far when he started spewing offending words about his mother and father. The next thing anyone in the great hall saw was Weasley charging towards Malfoy, jumping from the Ravenclaw table which was situated between the Gryffindor and Slytherin tables. Weasley showered Malfoy with punches that day. The Slytherins were too shocked to do anything, they were all just sitting there with their faces white. The Headmaster himself intervened and by then Malfoy had a swollen black eye and a broken nose.

Next day Malfoy’s parents came barging into Hogwarts demanding Weasley to be expelled for his actions. A meeting was held by the Boards of Director, she had heard that Sirius Black fought hardly for Weasley. Sirius Black loves his godsons immensely, she had seen him on the platform 9¾ many times greeting Harry and Ronald. Harry once told her that Sirius is so close to Weasleys because of his family history. Sirius was the disowned son of Blacks, Harry told her that Weasley’s grandmother was also a Black and she was also disowned by her family when she married into the Weasleys, who were considered as biggest blood traitors.

Even with Black’s efforts, the Board members weren’t convinced. Though Professor Snape had surmised to the Board members that Malfoy must have said something because of the rivalry between two families, but the Board members didn’t budge. It was until Daphne Greengrass, the only Slytherin then to have guts to stand for truth, gave her testimony to the Board members. It was quite an astonishing day for whole of the Hogwarts, as for the first time in the history of Hogwarts a Slytherin stood for a Gryffindor. Though Daphne Greengrass might have gained dismay of her housemates for her action, but she gained the respect of the whole Gryffindor house.

As for Weasley, he was given a warning of expulsion if his behavior was repeated again. He was given detention for a year under Professor Snape and had to publicly apologize to Malfoy. Though Malfoy was also given warning if he was caught hurling slurs or insulting anyone’s family, he will also face expulsion, but it didn’t do anything on his behavior as he still thinks of himself as the Prince of Slytherin and still uses racial slurs. It was amusing for everyone to see his reaction when Greengrass was chosen as the Slytherin candidate instead of him. The foolish boy had started to dream himself as the president even before the candidates were chosen.

She sighs as she reached the seventh floor corridor, thought the stairs were taking their time to adjust so she mused a little more.

Weasley’s behavior was changed after that incident. He stopped interacting with people anymore, he used to just roam in the whole castle and was rarely seen anywhere except at the great hall or the Gryffindor common room. People often used to snigger at his one dress robes which were so out of size for him, even though he is one of the most, tallest person in their year. The robes he still wears, they are in size of him now but are too shabby and their color is nearly faded.

Though it came to surprise to everyone when he was elected as the Gryffindor prefect alongside her in their fifth year. Not that his behavior was still improper. After the third-year incident, his nature in the school changed as he did not bother to take fight on anyone who says something nasty about him. His grades also improved, not like he was suddenly a topper but he passed subjects like, Potions and Transfiguration where he did not get more than T in his starting three academic years, with better grades. They never interacted much during their time as prefects because of the rule that the prefects would be partnered with the prefect of other houses.

What she couldn’t deduce was the adoration with which the first years regard him. They never came to her for any help and if they do, it will be because Weasley had sent them because he doesn’t have answers to their questions.

She heard a click which broke her musing. She climbed the stairs which are in their right place. She just turned the corner of the Headmaster Office’s corridor when she saw a glimpse of red and there was Weasley walking alone in the corridor. Instead of his old robes there is a maroon jumper with a huge R on it. He had a jacket over the jumper and has put blue jeans.

It was rare to see him out of his trademark robes for, he must be coming from somewhere else as wearing casuals is not allowed on weekdays.

Suddenly the thought of him as her date came into her mind. It will create a huge gossip, but she really needs a date now. What would be the worse turning up at the Ball alone or with Weasley as her date. Then face of Luna appeared in front of her and the ridiculous tales of her mysterious magical creatures started ringing in her ears. She decides that spending the ball night with Weasley is much better than Luna’s stories of Nargles.

She saw Weasley walking towards the opposite direction of the corridor, “Weasley!” she shrieked loudly, she hadn’t meant to shriek that loudly.

Weasley jumped at the loud voice and turned with a baffled expression on his face which turned into confused one when he saw her walking towards him.

“Hello Hermione,” he greeted politely.

Hermione? Since when we were on first name basis. She reached him, feeling a little nervous as he was her last chance for a date.

“Umm, hi,” she said softly.

He was looking a bit fair as his hair was combed nicely as if he’s coming from a date. Date!? she suddenly realized that what if someone had asked him for a date before her. She can expect Luna because they both are much of same type of people.

“Do you need something Hermione?” he asked her breaking her thoughts.

She blushed of embarrassment when she realized that she is staring at his face for a whole minute now.

“Yes! I mean, well, did you go somewhere?” she asked nervously.

“Oh, yes I went home,” he replied.

“What?” she asked, it confused her a little. He must be coming from headmaster’s office then, he must have travelled with the floo.

“Um, I went to Healer’s appointment with my mum,” he said looking a little uncomfortable. Oh.

“Is she fine?” she asked.

“Brilliant,” he replied with a smile.

They both fell into uncomfortable silence. He tugged at his jacket while she shuffles her legs, back and forth. She stared at her shoes, didn’t know what to say.

“The day is beautiful,” she said stalling.

“It is,” he replied softly.

“Warm too,” get a grip! She chastises herself.

“Because, we’re under the sun, I guess,” he said.

“What?” she asked incredulously, she glanced outside and they were indeed under the rays of sun.

“Oh, didn’t noticed that,” she mumbled.

This time he didn’t respond and the air of awkwardness returned. They stood there in silence for a time.

“Hermione,” he finally said, “You’re not here to talk about the weather, are you?”

“Not really,”

“Then why are you here?”

She clears her throat as the moment of truth arrived.

“Umm.. I wanted to ask, that are you coming to the Ball tomorrow?” she asked finally.

“Oh, The ball,” his tone made her feel like he isn’t aware of the ball.

“I really hadn’t planned on going,” he said and she felt relived a little.

“They’re fun,” she said quickly, “Not too fun, but you will enjoy yourself a little,” she said fidgeting a little.

He looked uncertain, “I’m not sure,” he mumbled.

She felt a rush, Harry once told her that sometimes people feel a rush when they are going to either do a dense or a intelligent thing, and then she did it.

“Would you like to go to the ball with me?”

His eyes went a little wide, his expression turned astonished. He must have thought that this question must be for another person. Sometimes teenagers do that, sending their friends to ‘scout the terrain.’

When he didn’t reply quickly, she felt the disappointment of rejection spread into her whole body. Visions of Luna’s Nargles started to appear in her mind when suddenly Weasley said with a slight smile on his face.

“I’d love to,” he said and the dam of relief broke into her mind.

“But,” he said and she steadied herself on his sudden interruption, “I have one condition.”

 What? since when boys started to have conditions to go to balls. “Yes,” she said.

“You have to promise that you won’t fall in love with me,”

She knew he was kidding by the way he laughed, she herself chuckled. Weasley does have a good sense of humor.

Chapter Text

A Tale of Ron and Hermione

(The preparation)

The day of the Ball was pretty hectic for her as she had to do multiple works in four hours, two actually she needs other two to get ready. Not that she wants to get dressed that well, like she did for the Yule Ball in their fourth year.

Well Viktor Krum was her date for that time and she had to look best for the occasion, after all turning up at the Ball with an international quidditch star was a big deal.

Viktor, she sighs at the thought of her ex-boyfriend. Viktor was a gentleman at the Ball, and it was really a surprising, actually shocking thing, for every single person of Hogwarts when the bookworm Granger turned up the date of the Victor Krum.

Viktor and her continued their relationship even after the Triwizard Tournament. He used to visit her during the Hogsmead visits and they used to spend the day together.

It was really heart breaking for her when he sent her the break up letter, before the starting of her sixth year. Five months later she heard the news of him dating a fellow quidditch player who belongs to Italy. After that their letters became rare and she lost the contact with him.

Not that she didn't had boyfriends after him. Cormac McLaggen was the person who had asked her for the Slughorn's Christmas party and then they kissed later at the party and they were in a relationship which lasted for six months.

He was a prat many times to be honest and he started getting on her nerves. But she really liked him because he was a solace after her break up with Viktor and she started liking spending time with him. Then, she sighs sadly. He dumped her at his graduation day.

She couldn't believe her luck that every bloody time she was the one to get dumped. Though it didn't hurt that much as much as it did before during Viktor's time.

Now here she is sitting on the vacant seat, sweaty and tired with a glass of a butterbeer in her hand and watching the Hall they had prepared for the Ball.

They did a good work with all of decorations, Headmaster Dumbledore was immensely impressed with the decorations and all. Even Professor McGonagall had remarked and it really made her feel proud of herself and her the members of the Council.

She hoped everything goes better this evening. She had asked Ron, he told her it would be okay if she calls him by his first name, that she'll meet him near the courtyard.

Her friends didn't give her that much of a hard time as much as she had expected. Lavender and Parvati were surprised but they just shrugged and let it go easily. Dean and Harry understood that she took this step because of the no one left problem. It was Seamus who had given her a hard time for it, with his teasing. She hoped that Seamus would get busy because she can face the teasing but she didn't want Ron to face it, because Seamus can be a bit heartless when he had firewhisky on.

She walked towards the Gryffindor tower musing about the upcoming Ball when she heard someone call her.

She turned and Ginny Weasley was walking towards her. She had her Quidditch kit on and she had her broom on her shoulder.

"Hello Ginny," she greeted with a smile.

"Hi," she said with a small smile, "If you're not busy, can I talk to you for a moment?".

Hermione was confused as to why in the world would Ginny Weasley want to have a conversation with her. Not that they are not on good terms or something. It's just that they really didn't interacted that much to strike a friendship. Harry and Ginny are friends, she knows as both of their families are close.

"Sure," said Hermione.

"Well, how's your year as the President going?" Ginny asked and she can sense awkwardness in her tone.

"It is well till now, though it's been only a month, I can say that the first month was hectic. Don't know what will the upcoming time will bring." She chuckled.

Ginny smiled and sway her hands through her straight red hair. She cleared her throat, "So, I heard you asked my brother to be your date, is it true?".

"Yes," she said a little confused, "Didn't he tell you?" she asked.

Ginny rolled her eyes. "My brother won't tell anything if you don't ask him."

They both again went into that uncomfortable silence.

"Do you mind if I ask you a question?" Ginny asked her with her eyes a little narrowed.

"No."

Ginny stared at her gloved hand for a moment as if contemplating her words, "Why did you ask to the Ball?".

Hermione frowned, "I really didn't understand what you mean by that Ginny."

"You're not planning to…. embarrass him, are you?" Ginny asked seriously.

What!?, she's really shocked by the accusation of Ginny, "Why do you think that?" bewildered and astonished by Ginny's accusation.

"You and your groupies don't have any pranks planned for him?" Ginny asked looking suspiciously at her and Hermione didn't know from where this all is coming.

"Look Ginny," she said firmly looking straight at Ginny, "I needed a date for the Ball and your brother was dateless. So, I asked him for the date, it's all simple. There is no pranks or scheme to embarrass your brother."

Ginny stared at her for a minute then breathed a long sigh relaxing her shoulders. "I am sorry, it's just, you know?" Ginny shrugged her shoulders.

"I understand," Hermione said, "My friends really had the bad reputation of Hogwarts' best pranksters since your twin brothers graduated."

Ginny snorted, "No one matches my prats of brothers," she said with a laugh.

Hermione laughed, "That is something I can agree with."

"Are you done?" she asked frustratedly.

"Be a little patient, will you," Parvati snapped back while applying a little lipstick on her lips and a little makeup on her face.

"Why're you so fussy today?" asked Lavender, who is sitting at her bed and enjoying the eclairs Dean had bought them. Hermione was preparing early because as the president she and her date would have to be present at the Ball before anyone else.

"Why can't I can go without Parvati's trademark makeup?" she huffed while Parvati shot her a look with narrowed eyes, Lavender rolled her eyes.

"Because Parvati won't let you go out of this room until she is done with you," Lavender said while jumping from her bed, she walked and stand behind Hermione with a teasing smile on her face, "You were not like this before the Yule Ball?".

Hermione glanced at her on the mirror. "Yule Ball was different," she said trailing.

Lavender suddenly frowned, "And your date was an international quidditch star and this time a simple seventh year student?" Lavender said wearily.

"No!" Hermione said quickly, but went quiet as soon as her voice went high realizing that what Lavender said is true.

Lavender sighed, "Hermione," she said shaking her head. She bent down and kissed Hermione's top of the head and plop down on the stool placed beside Hermione. The stool was really small as Lavender's head, who is of a medium height, is reaching the hands of the seat.

She took Hermione's hand in hers', "Look Hermione. My mum always used to say that people will always try to be good with you if you always try to be nice to them," she said with a smile, "Look at us, we didn't even like each other when we first met and now, we're best friends." Lavender said cheerfully.

"So! my dear bookworm," she said clapping her hand on her shoulder. "Though Ron was a troublesome person during our starting year. He is a real nice guy, so be good with him and I am sure he will also try to be a good date."

"Since when our deary became so wise, Parvati?" Hermione asked teasingly to Parvati who giggled and then said with mocking emotional expression, "My dear Lav is all grown up now," she said wiping the invisible tears. Lavender huffed and rolled her eyes at them but her lips are twitching on both corners.

"It isn't about Ron being my date," Hermione said sighing. "It's about that he must not have any expectations."

"Why?" asked Parvati, her brows furrowing.

"I don't want another trail of rumours behind me again," she said sighing sadly. Lavender and Parvati flinched when they remind of the fourth year after the Yule Ball. There are hundreds of rumours regarding Hermione and Krum. It all started because of Rita Skeeter's article in Witch Weekly, and then it was a thunderstorm of howlers and all from Bulgarian crowd and Krum's fans and many of them were rather unkind.

"It's just a date for the Ball Hermione," said Parvati, "Don't worry, I am a respected member of the rumour mill of Hogwarts. Nothing passes me." She said proudly and they all laughed.

Chapter Text

A Tale of Ron and Hermione

Chapter-4

(The Ball-I)

Hermione walked directly towards the courtyard where she had asked Ron to meet her. They didn't have much of a conversation because she was in a hurry due to the preparations.

Though she is more worried about the gossip she is going to attract today with Ron being her date. Last time it was unbearable. At least this time her date wouldn't be top gossip of Witch Weekly, she sighs.

She had oceanic blue coloured dress robe on herself. Her bushy hair is tied into a bun, she didn't want to deal with her mess of bushy hair so Parvati magically tied them into a bun for her. She tugged a little on her hair as she walked a little swiftly.

She reached the courtyard where the evening is started getting darker as it six thirty by now and in half an hour every couple will start arriving at the classroom turned ballroom.

Luckily Ron is already present there sitting on one seat by the pillar. To her relief he had decent black robes on his attire today, his hair is nicely combed and he looks decent.

His attention was on the orange half evening sun with a distant look in his eyes until she cleared her throat. He broke his gaze from the sun and turned his eyes towards her. She didn't know why but she noticed a little sombreness on his face before it faded away when he gave her a little smile and stood up.

"Hello Hermione," he greeted.

"Hi,"

They both stood there surrounded by awkwardness with Hermione tugging at her hair again and again, and Ron rubbing his hand on his neck.

"So," Ron broke the silence, "Umm, you look… very pretty."

He sounded genuine and his tone tells her that he had not much experience in complimenting females.

"Thanks," she said quietly, they both fell into the uncomfortable silence again.

"Ah… we should go to the room, I think it's time," Hermione said, Ron nodded and they both started walking towards the Ballroom side by side.

"Umm, Ginny met you yesterday?" Ron asked with a glance.

"Yes," said Hermione turning her head towards him a little, she wiggled her hands. "She wanted to make sure that whether my friends or I have not planned any pranks."

Ron snorts and shake her head, "She's a pain in arse."

Hermione raised an amused eyebrow towards. "This isn't an appropriate language for a prefect," she said little sternly but her lips are twitching upwards.

Ron's eyes widened a little but he must have noticed the small smile on her lips as his shoulders relaxed a little, "I apologize for my inappropriate wording, President," he said cheekily.

Hermione chuckled and the air around is starting to feel more comfortable now. "Though it was sweet of Ginny to look after you," she said.

Ron again snorted, "My little sister has a habit to act like the elder one here. She believes I can't look after myself, though she's the one I always found at the hospital wing, every single month," he said shrugging but he has a smile on.

Hermione chuckled again. All the Weasley siblings are very closed but hearing about their antics is always fun. She had noticed their whole clan many times on the platform. Harry is also very dear to their mother and his mother, Mrs. Potter, is also seem very fond of the Weasley siblings as she had seen them interacting on the platform. Joy and love are like the daily part of their life.

She envied them. Her parents, she sighed at the thought of them. Her parents, Dr Jacob and Jean Granger. One of the most successful and known dentists of London. Being one of the most prosperous dentists of London has it sacrifices, including their only daughter.

Since her childhood, it was rare for her to spend time with them. They were always busy at their clinics or reports when they returned home. She can't even remember any vacation with them. If they had gone somewhere outside of London, It will always be for their seminars and conferences.

If it's not for her aunt Gloria, her childhood would be far more worse than it was. She had been her only companion. Her parents never sat with her and asked about how her day in the school went. She can't even remember how many breakfasts, lunches and dinners she had spent alone or with aunt Gloria. Her muggle school was a hell. She was bullied, friendless and her parent's absence didn't do anything good.

She still remembers that day. She was going to be awarded as the best student for her academic achievements at her school when she was nine. Her mother was delighted and promised that she and her father will be there.

She was awarded, but they were not there. She waited but no one came, she was on verge of tears when her principal handed her the award. Everyone applauded but it didn't mean anything since the two people she most wanted to be applauding for her didn't even bother to be present there.

That day, she spent her whole time sitting at the corner with her trophy in her hand, watching parents of the other students smiling and telling their children how proud they are of them. She was devastated, her aunt Gloria arrived to take her home. She cried into her chest for hours.

When her parents arrived home, they didn't even give any reasons for their absence. It was like they just forgot, forgot about the award, forgot about, her.

"We're here," Ron's words break her train of thoughts, she blinked and they are now standing in front of the door of the hall.

The ceiling was decorated with shining hangers and usual bats. Hagrid's large pumpkins did also make their appearance like every Halloween, like every year they are carved into large lanterns. There is a long table at the right corner of the hall, by the window, the appetizers are on the table. Single round tables have been placed in front of the stage where the band will perform.

"I see you are here, president," she heard a benevolent voice. They both turned their head to see Headmaster Dumbledore standing there smiling at them. Professor McGonagall was right behind him, Hermione can swear she had an odd expression regarding her date before she turned it into her usual stern expression.

"I see you are punctual as usual," said Dumbledore, with a smile and his famous twinkle in the eyes.

"I must inform you that I had invited some of my ministry friends and they are really eager to meet the first president of the Student's Council," Hermione's mouth went dry at the revelation.

She hasn't expected this, but now she feels more anxious. Am I dressed nicely? My hair!? I should have used the potion more. What if they started to return in their usual form, it would be really embarrassing if that happened. Hermione's mind was going through a marathon of the thoughts of embarrassing herself in front of the ministry officials when Ron gave a tap on her shoulder.

"Yes Ron?" she asked a little unpleasantly.

"Umm actually," Ron cleared his throat, "Professor McGonagall is trying to have a conversation with you Hermione."

Hermione's head snapped towards her head of the house who had her one eyebrow raised and expression rigid. "I am sorry professor!" she apologized, "I was ju—

"I understand Miss Granger," Professor McGonagall cut her with her trademark no-nonsense voice. "What I was really saying is that, I expect you to be attentive of officials' questions. Pay attention to their behaviour and way of speaking."

"Hopefully you will be the one replacing them in the future," she glanced at the entrance of the hall where the students have started entering. Many of them are the members of the Student's Council who are called earlier with their dates with them. "Best of luck, President."

Professor McGonagall gave them both a nod and left to attend the other prefects and members of the Council.

"Well, that was some encouragement," Ron chuckled, he turned but Hermione was standing there biting the nail of her little finger. Her face pale and a worried expression has started to appear on it. Her eyes are looks like they are on their own journey to nowhere.

Ron frowned and waved his hand in front of brunette's unwavering eyes, but nothing worked. Ron sighs "Right,".

"HERMIONE!" he yelled in her ear. Hermione jumped in fright, "What are you doing!?" she snapped.

"What am I doing!? What are you doing?" He said exasperatedly.

"What do you want to say?" she asked, a little intrigued and frustrated.

"You're thinking too much Hermione," Ron said, trying to get her understand what he was saying. "You are letting Professor McGonagall's words get to your head. Don't you see that it's her strategy to test you?"

"To test me?" she asked bewildered.

"Yes! She wants to check your ways of handling the weight of expectations. It's only the first month of your President year, and this is the best place for her to check your calibre." He said.

"How come you know all these things?" she asked a little intrigued by his perception regarding professor McGonagall's words.

Ron shrugged, "She always do it when I play chess against her."

"Huh?" Hermione's face turned that of incredulousness.

"Never mind," Ron said quickly, "What matters most here is, don't let the words get here," he tapped his finger two times on her forehead "Okay?".

Hermione nodded, a little bewildered. She glanced around and the hall is started filling by now. She saw Anthony waving at her, he seems to need in help as he signals her to meet her near the food table.

"Ron," she said turning towards him, "Do you mind waiting here, I need to check some of the arrangement."

"Not at all," Ron said with a smile. She returned his smile and started walking towards Anthony and the other members of the Council.

"So!" she clapped both of her hands, "I think we all are ready for our first big event." Hermione studied every member who are smilingly nervously towards her. She can tell that they are pretty anxious and their minds are running in two places at one time, by the way there eyes are roaming at the, every part of decorated hall. They had done so hard work to prepare this well decorated hall for this Halloween Ball and Hermione is very very proud of the work the Council member had done.

"Guys," she called to them and they all turned their attention towards her. "You all did great work, we had prepared this all in the small time of three days and I can't be any prouder of what we have done in these three days," they all smiled a little, "So, our work is mostly done. The band will be here in a short time, food is served and elves will serve the main dinner whenever ordered."

She glanced towards Padma and Susan who both are eying Ron who was standing at the corner leaning by the wall, hands in his pockets, his eyes also admiring the decoration of the hall. They both are whispering with each other while throwing her furtive glances when she speaks. She can expect Padma to be like this but she thought Susan to be a little open minded.

She cleared her throat a little loudly. Padma and Susan's heads snapped towards her, they blushed of embarrassment when they noticed everyone's eyes towards them.

Hermione shook her head in exasperation, she knew it was not the only time she had to face this kind of situation this evening. The thought of people whispering around her made her feel tired.

"So, I think we all have done our parts here and I think we all deserve to enjoy this evening. Enjoy yourself," she said with the smile to everyone which they returned warmly.

She was about to walk when Tracey Davis from Slytherin brushed her finger on her arms. "Yes Tracey?" she asked.

Tracey glanced towards other people who are heading towards their dates who were waiting for them. "So, the rumours were right? President had asked Ronald Weasley to be her date."

Her green eyes looked easy, there is no amusement or mocking. She just had a short smile over her face.

"Is there a problem with my date Tracey?" she asked raising her one eyebrow. "Because I think you all Slytherin are over Ron's debacle with Malfoy."

Tracey scoffed, "We never held anything against Weasley," she said glancing towards Ron who is in a conversation with professor McGonagall. "To be honest, many of our own people enjoyed that day," she chuckled.

She tugged her hairpin, "Daphne sends her regards," she said. Hermione frowned, "Isn't she coming tonight?".

Tracey shook her head, "She cannot be here today. She has taken leave for two days to return home for family reasons."

"Why?"

"I cannot tell you, I am afraid," Tracey said a little meekly. Hermione wanted to ask but nodded.

"Excuse me Tracey, I should return to my date. I hope you will have a good time." Hermione turned and was about to leave.

"I think you and your date should try to stay away from the Slytherins as much as possible, tonight." Tracey said which cause Hermione to turn around and stare at Tracey in confusion.

"Don't look baffled, President. Do you think Draco and his cronies will let go the chance of embarrassing the person he held a grudge against since the third year and the girl he hated for her blood and the position he believed to be his'?" Tracey asked rubbing both of her hand and a smile plastered on her face which Hermione can tell is fake, she is acting like they are having a simple talk.

Hermione stiffened. Tracey did have a point regarding Malfoy's despise towards her and Ron. She acknowledged her words and think whether Daphne had given this all a thought.

"Daphne asked me to warn you," Tracey said, her focus on her nails which are painted in turquoise colour nail paint. "She was thinking about it since we heard that rumour about you asking Weasley for the date."

Hermione stared at her for a moment, contemplating on Tracey's work. She nodded, "Thank you Tracey. Do tell Daphne, I appreciate and thank her help." Hermione said in her formal voice.

Tracey nodded, she took small steps behind and a smirk appeared on her face. "I forgot to say, but have a good time with Weasley," she said chuckling, Hermione sighed which amused Tracey more. She gave her a wink and walked off the other side of the hall.

Hermione shook her head but a smile is twitching on her face. She turned towards Ron who is still chatting with Professor McGonagall.

It's going to be a long night.

Chapter Text

A Tale of Ron and Hermione

Chapter-5

(The Ball- II)

Harry had asked Susan Bones to the ball, who looked rather jovial. Seamus was due to arrive with his date with Lisa Turpin from Ravenclaw. Dean was also there with his Girlfriend of one year, Ginny Weasley. Parvati turned up with Anthony Goldstein, which was rather surprising for Hermione as Parvati never showed much interest in Anthony ever before.

Lavender still hadn’t arrived, she didn’t tell them about her date. Harry walked towards her, he had an Emerald colour coat on, it is a Muggle coat. Hermione was sure his mother had sent this coat especially for this Ball.

“So, how’re you doing, President?” Harry asked cheekily, she playfully slapped his left arm. Harry chuckled and hugged her which she returned with a warm smile.

“Hey!” Harry looked around them, “Where’s Ron? He asked. Hermione signalled to the other side of the hall where Ron was still in the discussion with Professor McGonagall, though this time Professor McGonagall was looking a little vexed with Ron.

It made Hermione a little curious as the discussion seemed heated. “Harry?” she turned her head towards Harry, who also seemed curious of the discussion as his eyes were glued to Ron and Professor McGonagall.

“Harry?” “Hmm,” Harry turned his head towards her.

“Can you do me a favour?” she asked, with a hopefulness in her voice. Harry raised an eyebrow, but nodded.

Hermione sighed, “Davis warned me, Malfoy might try to coax Ron or any of us today.”

Harry’s expression hardened on the mention of Malfoy. If Malfoy had a hate list, then Hermione was sure that Harry was at the second place after Ron. He never hid his displeasure of Harry’s achievements, neither Harry ever hesitated to give him a black eye whenever he got a chance.

“So,” she said, “I want you and everyone else to keep your distance with Malfoy,”. Harry opened his mouth to argue that he could handle Malfoy by himself but Hermione cut him off, “No,” she said sternly, “I know you and Malfoy have bad blood, but I won’t have none of it on my carpet. This is my first event as the President, so I beg you dear friend, to behave yourself.”

Harry hesitated but had to nod after Hermione’s stern and pleading request. They both parted ways, Harry returned to Susan, Hermione turned her attention to Ron, who was still in discussion with Professor McGonagall, though their discussion seemed heated noticing their Head of House’s frown.

By the time she reached them, she could hear faint conversation of them. “I know how to live by myself—,

“Your parents and I—,” Professor McGonagall stopped as she noticed Hermione making her way towards them. “I hope I am not interrupting something?” Hermione asked, noticing McGonagall’s frown, she clearly wasn’t happy with her interruption. Though Ron’s expression of delight told another story.

“Not at all Miss Granger,” Professor McGonagall cleared her throat. “Mr Weasley and I are just.. complimenting the decorations… Wonderful work you and your team have done, I might say.”

Hermione felt odd, she never thought she would hear professor McGonagall making lame excuses of all things in this large world. Her eyes went to Ron whose lip were twitching upwards, sometimes she admired Ron Weasley for his guts. He was literally snickering while the most dangerous professor, Severus Snape at second, was standing right beside him.

Hermione glanced between Professor McGonagall, who had her dead stare on Ron, the later was still snickering to no avail. “Thank you very much for your compliment professor…” she stalled, “It means .. a lot.” Professor McGonagall, sensing the awkwardness of the situation, departed with a nod to her and an appraising glance to Ron.

“What was that?” she asked Ron, whose eyes were on the retreating back of McGonagall. “Oh nothing .. another sermon on how I should focus on improving my grades, so I can sit in a lavish ministry office and all other noble talk.”

“Well.. she actually is telling you to improve yourself, isn’t she?” Hermione told him sternly, “Which shows how much she cares about you and is… um.. very fond of you,” Ron chortled as soon as she said. “Be serious Ronald!” she snapped flustered, inspirational talk was not her thing and Ron’s reaction to her attempt once again showed her that she was very bad at it.

“Sorry,” Ron wheezed, “It’s just the tone. For a minute I thought you were trying to impersonate McGonagall.” Ron chuckled.

“It’s Professor McGonagall!” she reprimanded him. “Same thing,” he shrugged.

Hermione huffed, annoyed with her red headed date. “I was only saying for your own good,” she narrowed her eyes at his jolly face. “We are in our final year, don’t you think it might be the time where you get serious about what you want from your life. Instead of laughing at Professor McGonagall’s advises, you must utilise them to make yourself a good career but—”

“I am not interested in making a career Hermione,” Ron said, his voice hearable yet so.. serene.

“Why not?” Hermione had bewilderment in her voice. Yes Ron Weasley was different from everyone else she knew but who doesn't want to start a career, a life which they want to pursue to make a living out of it.

“Because I know what I want to do with my life.” Ron smiled and shrugged. Hermione raised her eyebrow. There were few things Hermione couldn’t understand there at Hogwarts, and Ron Weasley was among those things. “Hermione!”.

Before Hermione could turn to acknowledge who called her, a figure collapsed into her, engulfing her into a hug. The aromatic fragrance of cologne could tell it was Lavender.

“Merlin Lav!” she breathed as she patted Lavender’s back and tried to wiggle out of her best friend’s embrace.

“Seamus asked me out! That bloody idiot finally asked me out!” Lavender shrieked in excitement, she also had Hermione jumped with her with a joyous smile on her face. This was no surprise for her, Lavender and Seamus were jumping around each other for, merlin knows since when. Hermione knew that Lavender had yearned for a relationship with Seamus since the Yule Ball, and according to Harry Seamus also returned the feeling but was uncertain of a relationship.

Seamus had a hard childhood, his parents had this fallout after his father find out that his mother is a witch. He spent half of his childhood without his father. Though his father came back and reunited with his wife, Seamus was yet to forgive his father for his abandonment.

The relationship of his parents had made its impact on Seamus’ perception on relationships. He also had expressed his disappointment in his parents and his detestation on the idea of a relationship. Which had caused Lavender to have many sleepless nights.

“Are you happy?” she asked Lavender who was still jumping with her hands wrapped around Hermione .

“Happy!? I am going to be burst out of happiness!”.

“Merlin Lav! Don’t be so loud!” Hermione laughed while Ron looked at them with a small smile.

Lavender drew back with fake pout on her face. “Hey woman my love life just got better. So , I have the right be loud as much as I want.” Hermione chuckled, “So where is our Seamus?”.

“Oh, he is with Dean and Harry. I saw them near the food table.”

“Well then now, as you are officially the girlfriend of Mr Finnegan,” Lavender blushed furiously at the remark. “So, it’s your responsibility to control that boyfriend of yours’ and make sure he doesn’t get too much of alcohol.”

“Yes madam president.” Lavender batted her sweet eyelashes which gave Hermione goosebumps of trepidation.

“I have to go now,” Lavender said and then her eyes shifted to Ron. “Hi Ron,” she said cheerly.

“Hi.”

“You look great.” Lavender said while glancing a funny look at her. She could be a mean brat sometimes, though Hermione knew Lavender wouldn't give her a hard time for this.

“So do you,” Ron replied with a smile.

“Charming smile,” she winked at Ron who laughed and shook his head.

“Go now!” Hermione ordered in her most authoritative. Lavender gave her a mock salute and trailed backwards while giving her a teasing smile.

“Pain in the arse. Every single of them.” She sighed and turned towards Ron who was looking at her with his eyebrows raised. “What?” she asked.

“Did Hermione Granger just swear!?” Ron asked, his expression as if he had seen a miracle. “How come merlin gave me the honour to be present at this once in a lifetime moment!”

Hermione rolled her eyes. “There is nothing wrong with me swearing Weasley.” Ron’s eyes flashed in amusement.

“Ronald Weasley do you know how inconvenient it is when you swear in front of the whole class!” Ron mimicked the first year Hermione.

Hermione gasped, “You remember that!?”. Ron chuckled, “How could I forget? You were at my throat every time during the charm classes.”

Hermione huffed. “Well, you weren’t much of a gentleman then. 'Can’t you calmly sit without jumping on every question'!” Hermione did an impersonation of him which made Ron laugh. “You were always so mean to me back then.”

“You’re right,” Ron chuckled. “I was a moody brat.”

“At least you accept your mistakes. But you still haven’t apologized to me, you called me a ‘bookworm’ thousand times during the first year.” She said looking directly at him with her challenging eyebrow raised.

Ron also raised his eyebrow. “Then what about the ‘Emotional range of a teaspoon’ thing?” he asked airily.

Hermione’s eyes went wide and her mouth fell down. She was the reason this phrase about Ron got famous at the Hogwarts. She once said this to her friends and it took only a day for Dean and Seamus to get this phrase famous in the whole Hogwarts.

Hermione drew a breath, “Ron I am so so sorry! It was just a stupid thing I said to my friends and those idiots spread it like a fire to whole Hogwarts. I never meant to mock you, I was ju..—”

“Hey hey hey, Hermione! It’s okay, it’s okay.” Hermione stopped rambling when she saw a smile on Ron’s face.

“It was actually funny,” he said. “Even my mom laughed when she heard about it the first time.” He laughed.

“But I am still really sorry for that,” she said trying to hide the blush of embarrassment from Ron.

Ron smiled, “I am sorry too..” he paused, “For every mean thing,” he mumbled while he rubbed his neck awkwardly.

Hermione didn’t know how to answer. She never expected this apology, she never thought that Ron and her had any kind of enmity. Yes they did have many arguments during their first year, but after the first year they never talked much. Even when they were chosen prefects, their interaction was limited and rare.

“There’s nothing to apologize Ron,” she said softly.

“We both were willing participants in all the arguments. You weren’t the only one yelling during those arguments. I was also there, spatting hurting words as much as I could,” she laughed softly. She looked at Ron with a smile, “But here we are, aren’t we? I am so thankful that you agreed to come as my date. Even though we have that bad history, you still helped me.”

“So!” she said cheerly, “Lets enjoy together.”

Ron smiled, a real smile. Which he tried to hide a lot, and Hermione didn’t know why her insides fluttered because of that smile.

“Well, the reason I was apologizing because I don’t want an old and cranky Hermione Granger remembering me as a jerk who never apologized to her for being impolite to her.” he said cheekily.

“Who gave you the idea that I will be cranky when I am old,” she asked with narrowed eyes.

“Well look at McGonagall.” Ron said smirking.

Hermione gasped and covered her mouth to hide her laugh from Professor McGonagall who was still eyeing them suspiciously. Her eyes met Ron’s sparkling with amusement ones’. They both burst into small sniggers.

“You’re mad!” Hermione said giggling.

“Oh, you aren’t the first one to say that.” Ron replied. “Hermione! The band’s about to start!” Anthony called her from the other side of the hall.

“May I have the pleasure of a dance madam?” Ron asked extending his left hand towards her. Hermione smiled with a blush on her cheeks.

“I’d love to.”

अजीब दास्तां है ये, कहा शुरू कहा खतम

Chapter Text

A Tale of Ron and Hermione

Chapter-6

(Perks of having a date)

Ron’s dancing skills are pretty good, Hermione eyed her date who’s enjoying the snacks they were served. They both danced for no longer than twenty minutes. There was less talk and more of, both of them trying their best to not to look at each other faces.

They both were now sitting at the tables, watching other people dance. Hermione noticed Harry and Ginny having a dance together, she took a glance at Ron who, fortunately, has not Ginny and Harry yet.

She roamed her eyes to see where Dean has gone off to. She found him near the corner with window, with a glass of butterbeer in his hand and a stupid smile on his face, and shockingly he’s getting cosy with Lisa Turpin. Who apparently helped Seamus in this whole scenario of asking out Lavender, and the rumour of her being Seamus’s date were false.

Though the dance between Ginny and Harry seems friendly, she feels a strange feeling emerging from them. Also, Dean’s sudden attentiveness on Turpin gave her signs of trepidation. 

“You seem worried.”

She turned her head towards Ron who’s eyes looked perturbed. “Something’s bothering you?” he asked.

Hermione shakes her head slightly, it is not good to let the things of their group to go outside. She gave him a smile, “It’s nothing. It’s just the whole thing was tiring,” she plated her hair with her hands and sighed heavily. “We worked very hard, since the last week. Now professor McGonagall says there will be a play—”

“A play?”

“Yes,” Hermione sighed and rolled her eyes. “It’s some Drama Festival. Have you heard of the Theatre Group of Gilderoy Lockhart?”.

“Oh, Lockhart,” Ron laughed, “My mum’s barmy about that guy and his plays. She once took me and Ginny to one of his Drama.”

“What happened then?”

“I had a good sleep and Ginny vomited twice.” Ron chuckled.

“What!? For real?” Hermione chortled.

“In my sister’s defence. She was overwhelmed”

“By what?” 

“By the passionate climax snog of Lockhart with the love of his life. The poor actress was dying to over it as soon as she can,” he laughed at the remembrance. Hermione joined this little laugh, “Don’t tell my mum though; she still thinks Ginny had too much apple pie in the breakfast.”

Hermione shook her head, wheezing a little with the laughter. She sighed, “Are they really that bad?”.

“You’ll survive,” Ron said shrugging.

“Hope so,” she leaned back in her seat, sighing tiredly and letting her shoulder fall. “Why aren’t they here yet?” she asked frustratedly. 

“Who? The ministry officials?” Ron asked.

“Yeah,” Hermione’s eyes were closed. They feel heavy she couldn’t get much sleep last night. She sometimes regrets being the Student Council’s president. She couldn’t do the Ancient Runes essay last weekend. Yes, they were allowed to leave the work given by the teachers, but she still regrets for letting it go. She wanted the time back when she and her friends used to sneak to the Shrieking Shack and spend their whole time there, laughing and relaxing around the old Shack, though that place was prohibited, but they still found that place a second home for them. 

“Hermione, did you cast any supernatural spell?”

“What?” Hermione opened her eyes and gave Ron a ridiculous gaze. Ron signalled toward the gates of the Hall. There stood three men with two women in Ministry robes, five of them were the Heads of the five departments, she had read about them in the records of Ministry Of Magic she found in the library, the records are charmed to update every year as soon as a batch of Hogwarts passes out.

Among the officials were Amelia Bones, Head of Department of Magical Law Enforcement. Bartemius Crouch, Head of Department of International Magical Cooperation. Pius Thicknesse, Department of Magical Transportation. Ludo Bagman, whose presenting the Department of Magical Games and Sports. At last, Rufus Scrimgeour, head of the Auror Office.

Hermione straightened her back and took a calm breath, Ron gave a weird look at her new stance. Hermione ignored his look and stood, her eyes met Anthony’s and other Council members, they all exchanged the nod of good luck. 

“You must be the President?” a firm and cold voice made Hermione turn around and she came face to face with Bartemius Crouch, who has a cup of tea in his one hand. Hermione nearly gulped at the sight of his cold and harsh face, his stare on her, she’s sure that he can give Professor McGonagall a good competition if they ever try to hold a staring competition.

“Yes, it is me sir. I am Hermione Granger, President of the Student Council.”

She said politely, Crouch gave her a scanned her whole face, trying to find, she doesn’t know what. He sighed, with the same face of indifference, he moved his hand forward. Hermione shook his hand firmly.

“I have heard about you a lot, Miss Granger,” Crouch said, his gaze on Hermione. “Remus Lupin talks about you a lot,” a small smile appeared on her face, Professor Lupin was too fond of her, “He had talked about you till that extent, that now, I get annoyed at the mere mention of your name.”

Hermione’s smile vanished. Now her first impression on the head of the Department of International Magical Cooperation is annoyance. She screwed it even before it all started, and the irony is that even she didn’t have to do anything to screw up.

“However,” Crouch took a sip from his cup, “When even Minerva was talking in your favour, I thought it wouldn’t hurt anyone to investigate you a little. I can say that I intrigued and impressed by your academic records. Your record is the best in the recent years of Hogwarts, even better than my assistant Percival Weasley.”

“Then I heard, you were elected as the president of The Student Council. Though the logic of this ridiculous council is still not understandable to me. Yet it was a impressive goal to achieve,” he sipped his tea while his eyes were on his ministry fellows, who are also keen to have a talk with this bright witch.

“Say Miss Granger, Would you like to do internship for the International Magical Cooperation Department?” he asked gruffly, his tone made it clear that he doesn’t need stalling in her answer, he expects either yes or no.

“Thank you very much for your consideration, Mr Crouch,” Hermione said, her palms are sweating, “I would love to work in your Department, but the aim I have, cannot be fulfil if I choose to work in your department. I apologize, but I decline your proposal.”

Crouch peered over her with his firm gaze. Hermione clenched her fist, her decision is final and there’s nothing which can change it, it’s her only aim, since she was fourteen.

“You don’t think your aim can be achieved, if you associate with my department?”

“Yes sir,” she said quietly.

“And you do know that International Magical Cooperation Department is one of the most influential office of the ministry?” Crouch’s eyebrow twitched as he directed the question to her.

“Yes,” she cleared her throat, “Yes I do know how much power your department holds in the ministry.”

“Hmm,” Crouch sipped his tea, rather loudly. “Yet you stand with your decision?”.

“My answer will remain the same,” Hermione sighed. “I did my research sir, and I know the post you are offering to me is the one for which hundreds of students aspire to have. But if I choose to work for your department, I will be limited to the projects of your department only, which is I definitely do not want from my career in the ministry.”

Crouch’s frown didn’t fade away from his face, but Hermione is sure that he understands. 

“Very well,” Crouch sighed, “I am impressed that you did the research. Well, all the best, is all I can say.” He put his hat on his head, “Hoping to see you at the ministry soon,” with a nod, he walked away to his colleagues.

Hermione breathed a relieved sigh, she was tempted, but as Professor McGonagall once said. Secure future is important, but a thoroughgoing dream is necessarily imperative.

“I think you had impressed Bartemius today,” Hermione’s head swivelled towards direction of the voice. 

“Madam Bones?” Hermione asked surprisedly. Amelia Bones stood in front of her, her hands joined together, her sharp eyes on Hermione, but there is a surprising and small smile on her face which further confused Hermione. 

“A pleasure meeting you, President Hermione Granger.”

Hermione gave her a gracious bow, few people know that, but she’s a huge admirer of Madam Bones. 

“Pleasure is all mine, madam Bones,” she said politely. 

“Walk with me,” she said and they both started trudging beside each other, the talk went here and there with Madam Bones asking questions while Hermione replying them all confidently, talking with clear intentions helps you a lot with confidence, and Hermione realised it after her talk with the Mr Crouch.

“I was fascinated,” Madam Bones said, Hermione’s face turned up towards her.

Madam Bones sighed, “Ever since I joined the ministry, I had witnessed many men and women to the top of ministry. Some of them were the capable, meanwhile some of them were far from capable. Some earned their position, where some of them stole it. Some of them dutifully did their job while some of them just filled their Gringotts vault with galleons, using that job,” she took a long glance at her, “But there is one thing they all shared… none of them was a muggleborn.”

Hermione felt her composure going upheaval as soon as Madam Bones said that. Yes, the bigotry is really worked upon in the Wizarding World, but there is a unspoken truth in this Wizarding World is that till now, not a single Muggleborn has been chosen as a Ministry official. There had been many Acts and Steps taken by the ministry, but they all know it’s all in vain until a muggleborn political figure rise in the ministry’s higher ranks.

“But you know how I got into this fascination,” Hermione looked puzzled. Madam Bones tugged on her hair, “When I last visited Hogwarts during the Triwizard Tournament, all the teachers told me a few names to pay attention to. I was really surprised when nearly every teacher suggested me a same name, Hermione Granger,” Madam Bones eyes met hers’. “You don’t know how fascinated I was, after working in the ministry nearly for three decades, it’s the first time I am hearing about a prodigy who’s a muggleborn.”

“Hermione you might not realise that but you rising in the ranks of the ministry might create a huge uproar. There are still hundreds of prejudiced jerks who sits on the seats of the deserving, and to be fair with you, I might not be able to help you once you get into the ministry because there are many things which even I or Bartemius can control,” Madam Bones said grimly, she glanced upon the young witch whose eyes were on her shoes. “My intentions are not to sca—

“I know…” Hermione said determinedly, her eyes met Madam Bones’, “I was twelve.. when I was first called a mudblood on my face…” Madam Bones flinched, “I was hurt, but I decided that if I don’t want another twelve year girl to be called that like me. Then I had to fight… don’t worry Madam Bones, It cant intimidate me now anymore, it has become a part of me now. I am a muggleborn and I just don’t want something for muggleborns, but also want the other parts of this magical society to be equal with the wizards and witches.” 

Madam stares at her, her left side of lip twitched up, “Hmm.. I heard about your wish to work with Department for the Regulations and Control of Magical Creatures?”

“Yes.”

“And this is the reason for you to decline Bartemius’s offer?”

“Yes.”

“Hm.. If I ask you to work for my department. Will you still be staying on your wish for work with Magical Creature department?”

“Yes,” Hermione said, not a slight hesitation in her answer.

Madam Bones raised her eyebrow. “You’re exactly like what she described me,” she chuckled.

Hermione frown, “She?”.

“Miss Greengrass,” Madam Bones replied, surprising Hermione further.

“You know Daphne?” Hermione asked perplexedly.

“Wouldn’t I know my own student, Miss Granger?” Madam Bones replied amusingly.

“What!? Daphne is you student?”.

“Yes,” Madam Bones said, “I’ve been teaching Daphne chess, since she is six.”

“Oh, well I have heard Daphne’s chess skills are quite astonishing.”

“Oh don’t give her too much of credit,” Madam Bones rolled her eyes. “She lost to Minerva’s student, still gives me a hard time, that Minerva.”

“Well, Miss Granger,” Madam Bones cleared her throat, “It was a wonderful conversation we have and I think about the whole rumours of yours capabilities were not rumours after all.”

Hermione felt her cheeks and heart warm. Madam Bones gave her a nod as a farewell and turn around. She had walked a little when Hermione called her again.

“Madam Bones!” Hermione called. Madam Bones stopped and turned around.

“Who was that student of Professor McGonagall who defeated Daphne?” she asked curiosly.

Madam Bones gave her a joyous smile. 

“That person happens be your date, Miss Granger.”

Nearly after an hour Hermione walks back to the table where Ron was sitting. All of this was overwhelming, she just wants to go and collapse on her bed and sleep for a whole day. The party is nearly over, most of the students are getting tipsy and many of them were getting cosy with their dates in the corner.

She can notice Professor Snape’s eyes scanning the whole hall, hoping if he can find any student who are doing ‘inappropriate’ things, and he can take points from them or give some detentions, so he can get some peaceful sleep. 

She reached near the tables but the scene she got there wasn’t pretty at all. Malfoy with his cronies was sitting near table where Ron is, by the smirks on their faces, she can definitely guess that they’re again started with their petty commentary.

“Well shit!” she cursed herself under her breath, she shouldn’t have left Ron alone like this, even when Tracey had warned her in the first place. Ron’s back was on them, to her relief he’s ignoring them, there’s a fork in his hand and he’s just swirling in the empty glass.

“Why ain’t you answering us, Weasel?” she heard Zabini’s voice.

“What got your mouth shut?” it was Malfoy’s voice this time, she is nearly close to the tables by now, she just hopes Ron doesn’t takes the bait, she don’t want a wrestling match in the event. Also the ministry officials are still here, she can sense Malfoy’s plan here, he somehow wants Ron to react and cross the last warning he was given by the ministry.

“What? You don’t remember how to swear Weasel? Come on, you’re boring us, at least say something,” Malfoy mocked Ron, who still finds the empty glass more interesting. 

“Well if you really want to hear some cursing..” all heads on the table swivelled towards her, “.. then allow me, I have many of them in the store. Especially for you.”

Ron snorted in amusement, while Draco’s smirked widened. “Oh I apologize, we should not anger the President, should we Blaise?” he asked his companion.

Blaise grinned at her Hermione, who found their behaviour peculiar. “Oh we should not Draco, not at all..” he drawled, “After all, President Granger is the epitome of a perfect student, here in Hogwarts. We would not look good at all if we mess with her.”

Hermione narrowed her eyes, “What are you on about, Zabini?”.

Blaise made a mocking scandalous face, “Me!?” he asked, his hand on his chest. “I had been a well behaved person all this evening I swear president,” he smirked, “Oh but I can’t say the same thing about your best friend, Seamus though.”

“What about Seamus?” she asked crossly. “What did you do!?”.

“Us!” Draco jeered, “We didn’t do anything… except offering Finnegan and Brown a few glass of firewhisky.”

Hermione’s eyes went wide. The expression alone gave the Slytherins a satisfaction to laugh about.

“You bloody… gits..,” Hermione said, her jaw tightened. It only increased Slytherins’ glee.

Hermione gritted her teeth. She turned around and dashed towards the bathrooms, “Hermione wait!” she heard Ron, it didn’t took him long to reach her.

“What’s wrong?” Ron asked, they both are walking rather fast.

“It’s Seamus. He-he… he is a little weak when it comes to alcohol. But those gits! They might have done this on purpose.”

“Don’t worry, we’ll find a way out of thi—

Ron’s words didn’t came, they both were silenced by the scenery in front of them. The smell of puke is all in the air in that bathroom, Seamus is lying on the floor, Lavender is asleep on his chest.

“Oh hey guyssss…” Seamus grinned sloppily their way, he has his hand half raised in the air. Lavender shivered in her sleep, “So cold..” she moaned in her sleep.

“Here, my love!” Seamus said gleefully, wrapping his hands around Lavender tightly. “You’ll feel warm now,” Though what Seamus didn’t realised is that he is hugging his coat instead of Lavender.

“Merlin why!?” Hermione slapped her hand on her forehead. “My first responsibility and my own friends are lying drunk on the bathroom floor!”.

“Hermione,” Ron said, “I think we have a bigger problem here,” he turned towards her, his eyes wide with fear, “McGonagall’s coming this way.”

“Oh merlin!”

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