Work Text:
Fleur Delacour sat at her desk in the Department of Magical Marriages, bent over an endless stream of paperwork. The documents blurred together, and her head throbbed with thoughts. Usually, she managed to stay calm, even when work piled up like an avalanche. But now, the pressure felt unbearable. Her career, for which she had worked day and night, suddenly seemed to be on the brink.
Mr. Bennet, her boss, had recently announced his retirement. The position of department head— a position Fleur had dreamed of—was about to become available. However, despite all her efforts, there was a problem. Not just a problem, but a person. Rodolphus Lestrange—her rival for the position. Not as diligent, but possessing one significant advantage—he was engaged.
In a department dealing with magical unions and marriages, the head was expected to exemplify stable and strong relationships. Mr. Bennet had hinted at this more than once, discussing with candidates their future career prospects.
"You understand, Fleur,"—his words still rang in her ears—"this department is the face of the magical society. Family ties, stable relationships... It’s not just a job, it’s a symbol. I’m sure you understand what I mean."
She understood all too well. But what could she do? She was alone. Fleur had always prided herself on her independence, her pursuit of excellence in her work, but now it seemed insufficient. The career she had devoted so much time to could collapse because she didn't have the "right" relationship.
In despair, Fleur nodded and said what seemed to her the only way out at that moment: "Actually, I’m already in a relationship."
Mr. Bennet raised an eyebrow in surprise, his eyes sparkling with interest. It was unexpected news, and Fleur immediately felt the weight of the false truth pressing on her chest. But there was no turning back.
"Really? Wonderful, wonderful, Fleur. That will definitely help your career advancement. I would like to meet your significant other at our annual corporate event next month," he said with a satisfied smile, as if he had already made his decision.
The corporate event. Meeting her "significant other." Mr. Bennet's words echoed in Fleur's mind. She barely managed to hide her panic as she nodded in response, though inside, everything was trembling. As soon as he left the office and the door hadn't even finished closing, Fleur grabbed her head with her hands. This was the worst impulsive decision of her life. Now she urgently needed to figure out how to get out of this situation.
***
All day, Fleur nervously paced back and forth in her office. She quickly realized that all her friends were either too busy or lived too far away to participate in this farce. Options swirled in her mind, but none seemed acceptable.
While she feverishly considered her plans, there was a quiet knock at her office door. Standing in the doorway was Hermione Granger, as stern and serious as ever, holding a stack of papers. She was consulting the department on magical rights and laws. Fleur had always appreciated her professionalism and sharp mind.
"Fleur, I have some new documents for you regarding the latest case. We need to discuss some details."
Fleur met her gaze, and suddenly an idea sparked in her mind—crazy, outrageous, but it just might work in this situation. She needed someone reliable who could bail her out, even if just for a joke.
"Hermione, I... I need your help," the words slipped from her lips before she could think them through.
Hermione raised an eyebrow, surprised by the abruptness of Fleur’s tone.
"Of course, Fleur. How can I help?"
Fleur took a deep breath, feeling her heart pounding somewhere in her throat.
"I need... I need you to pretend to be my girlfriend."
Hermione froze, holding the documents halfway to the desk. She blinked several times, as if trying to comprehend what she had just heard.
"What?" came out more surprised than it might have.
Fleur lowered her gaze to her hands, taking a deep breath as she tried to cope with the wave of panic.
"I need you to pretend to be my girlfriend at an event," she started, realizing the absurdity of her request. "I know how it sounds, but this isn’t a joke. I really have a problem."
Hermione slowly set the papers on the desk, crossing her arms over her chest. Her face remained serious, but curiosity flickered in her eyes.
"Alright. Let's start with you explaining how you ended up in a situation where you asked me to play the role of your girlfriend."
Fleur nervously rubbed her forehead, trying to find the right words. "My boss, Mr. Bennet, is retiring soon. I'm one of the candidates for his position, but... there's one condition. They want the next head to be in a stable relationship. And I..."—she sighed, feeling the awkwardness constricting her—"I impulsively told him I was already in a relationship."
Hermione raised an eyebrow. "You lied to your boss that you have a relationship, and now you're asking me to pretend to be your girlfriend?"
"I know it’s crazy! But it was in the moment... I couldn’t just say I didn’t qualify for the position because of that ridiculous requirement!" Fleur was clearly anxious, her hands clenched into fists. "I realize I’m asking too much, but I have no other choice. I wouldn’t ask anyone else. You’re smart, reliable, and I know you can help."
Hermione looked at Fleur thoughtfully. She was calm and composed as usual, but something stirred inside her. Fleur’s request was clearly outside the standard tasks of her day.
"What do you want me to do in this situation?" Hermione asked, tilting her head slightly to the side.
"Would it be too much trouble for you to go with me to the corporate dinner and pretend to be my girlfriend? Nothing special, just for a few hours." Fleur froze, waiting for a response.
"You do realize this isn’t exactly ‘nothing special,’ right?" Hermione gently remarked. Her voice was calm, but there was tension beneath it. "If we get found out, it could damage your career. And my reputation, by the way."
Fleur closed her eyes and gritted her teeth, feeling the weight of the situation even more acutely. "I understand. I’ve thought about this for a while, and I really hope nothing goes wrong. If you agree, then we can make it work. And after the corporate event, everything will go back to normal."
Hermione paused, contemplating. A flicker of doubt crossed her face, but then she unexpectedly smiled.
"Alright, Fleur. I’ll help you," she said, her voice carrying a hint of amusement. "But you owe me."
Fleur looked at her in surprise, realizing that Hermione had actually agreed.
"Are you serious? You really agree?"—her voice was filled with relief.
"Yes, I’m serious. But don’t forget that this is a fake relationship. I won’t stand aside if something goes wrong. We’ll do this only if we follow a clear plan."
Fleur breathed a sigh of relief, feeling a glimmer of hope for the first time.
"Thank you, Hermione. I promise, everything will be under control."
"We’ll see, Fleur," Hermione replied, her smile fading into a serious look. "I hope you understand what you’ve gotten yourself into."
Fleur exhaled with relief, but tension still lingered in the air. She straightened up, trying to gather her thoughts when she noticed Hermione glancing at the stack of documents left on her desk.
"If you don’t mind discussing everything later, let’s get back to work matters for now, alright?" Hermione reminded her, picking up one of the folders and opening it to the first page. "We still have unfinished business regarding the magical rights of marriages between beings of different origins."
Fleur quickly nodded, trying to switch back to work. Her heart was still racing from the tense conversation, but she realized it was time to return to routine.
"Of course,"—she leaned over the documents, reaching out to Hermione to take one of the files. "What’s our progress on the discussion with the committee?"
Hermione turned the page and began explaining:
"Recent amendments proposed by the ministry may complicate marriages between wizards and half-breeds. This raise concerns in our department, as it could undermine the equality we are fighting for. We need to prepare the department's official position by the end of the week. What are your thoughts?"
Fleur lifted her gaze, fully switching to the matter at hand. This was the work in which she always felt confident. Legislation, magical rights, discussions—she could lose herself in this for hours.
"I believe we should soften their proposal by suggesting not to abolish the right to marry, but to introduce additional verification measures for such unions. This way, we can show concern for safety while still preserving rights."
Hermione listened carefully to Fleur’s reasoning, her eyes scanning the notes as she compared Fleur’s arguments with what had been proposed by the ministry. She nodded in agreement.
"Fair enough. This will avoid unnecessary bureaucracy while still allowing the ministry to monitor the safety of such marriages," Hermione replied, making notes in her notebook.
Fleur briefly distracted herself, looking out the windows of her office. The morning sunlight softly illuminated the desk and the books scattered around, creating a sense of coziness in the strict work environment. She always tried to maintain a balance between formality and warmth in her space.
"And one more thing," Hermione continued, leaning closer to the desk. "Regarding the amendment to change the review timelines for international marriages. We need to shift the deadlines; otherwise, it will significantly delay the legalization process."
Fleur refocused, quickly flipping through the documents.
"Yes, you’re right. Considering that we’ve already faced a wave of complaints from our colleagues in France, this could turn into a real nightmare. I’ll prepare a letter proposing to review the timelines in both directions."
They continued discussing the details, exchanging thoughts and clarifications. The working atmosphere gradually returned to its usual flow. There was a sense of long-standing collaboration and mutual respect in their dialogue that had developed between them over the years. Hermione always valued Fleur’s clear, professional approach to work, while Fleur admired Hermione’s depth of knowledge and her passion for justice.
When the discussion ended, Fleur leaned back in her chair, letting out a tired but satisfied sigh. She looked at Hermione, trying not to return to what they had discussed earlier.
"You know, I’m grateful to you not just for your help with this matter, but also for… well, you understand," she mumbled slightly embarrassed, lowering her gaze to the desk.
Hermione shrugged and smiled gently. "As I said, you owe me. But for now, let’s focus on work. The corporate event isn’t coming up soon, and we have plenty of other things to attend to in the meantime."
Fleur nodded, feeling the tension ease a bit. However, somewhere inside, an anxious spark still flickered at the thought of the upcoming event and the roles she and Hermione would have to play, roles they had never played before.
***
Hermione's letter arrived the next morning. Fleur was sitting in her office, reviewing yet another bill, when an owl landed on the windowsill with a sealed envelope. She immediately recognized Hermione's handwriting—neat and precise. Breaking the seal, she quickly scanned the text.
---
Fleur,
I’ve been thinking about our plan. I think we need to clarify a few things before the corporate event to make everything look natural. You’re right; details matter, and we can’t afford to make any mistakes if we don’t want to end up in an awkward situation.
First of all—how long have we been “together”? What will we say about how we met? And also: who knows about us? This is important to avoid discrepancies in our stories.
And yes, we definitely must not forget to discuss how we’ll behave in public. No sudden movements or changes in behavior. Everything needs to be smooth.
I look forward to your suggestions.
Hermione
---
Fleur read the letter with interest, feeling a slight flutter of excitement. She paused for a second, then picked up a quill and began to write her response.
---
Hermione,
You’re absolutely right. We need to be prepared for anything. I suggest we say that we’ve been together for about six months. That’s enough time for the relationship to seem serious, but not so long that anyone would be surprised they hadn’t heard about us before.
If anyone asks, we can say we struck up a conversation at one of the international events when you were helping our department. After that, we worked together on a few projects and grew closer. That sounds plausible and has a real basis.
As for who knows—only the closest people. We’ll say we wanted to keep everything secret to avoid drawing too much attention. This will explain why none of our colleagues were in the loop.
And yes, it will be important to act naturally. Nothing too abrupt, but enough confidence so no one has any doubts. If needed, we can meet before the corporate event to practice. That should help avoid any awkwardness.
Fleur
---
A few hours later, Fleur heard a tap at the window again. Hermione's owl had returned faster than she expected. This time, the letter was shorter but no less important.
---
Fleur,
Six months sounds reasonable. The story about the international event will work too. We’ll have enough facts to support the legend.
I’m up for a meeting before the corporate event. Maybe you could come over to my place on Friday evening? We can discuss the details and practice, as you suggested.
See you soon,
Hermione
---
Fleur smiled as she read the letter and set it aside on the edge of her desk. It seemed like everything was gradually falling into place. She knew there would be many challenges ahead, but right now, she felt confident that they could handle it together.
***
On Friday evening, as dusk settled in the offices, Fleur arrived at Hermione's place. A light nervousness affected her steps, but she tried to maintain her confidence. Hermione's door was slightly ajar, and she could hear music playing inside. Before knocking, she paused for a moment, listening to the melody. It was one of those tunes that always lifted her spirits.
The knock on the door caught Hermione's attention, and she quickly got up to open it. Seeing Fleur, she smiled warmly.
"Hi! Come in, I've already prepared everything," she said, ushering Fleur inside.
Hermione's office was cozily decorated: books were neatly arranged on the shelves, and lamps burned on the desk, casting a soft light. Famous wizards' portraits adorned the walls, creating a work environment with elements of warmth.
"How did you manage to organize everything here?" Fleur asked in surprise, with a slight French accent, glancing around.
"When I start preparing, I don’t joke around," Hermione smiled, pointing to two chairs arranged in a circle on the floor. "Have a seat. I thought we should rehearse a bit before discussing the details."
Fleur sat down and watched as Hermione opened her notebook filled with notes.
"So," Hermione began, "we need to establish a certain rhythm when it comes to our story. First, a general overview, and then details that will seem natural."
"Got it," Fleur nodded, ready for the task.
"Let’s try starting with that," Hermione suggested, her expression becoming more serious. "I'll ask how we met, and you tell the story."
Fleur decided not to hold back. "Well, I’ve always dreamed of working at the Ministry, and at one of the events, I had the chance to meet you. You presented your work on Muggle-born rights, and I was impressed by your knowledge. We started talking, and since then, it seems like everything just took off."
Hermione nodded, listening intently, and after a few seconds, she remarked, "Good, now let me ask how you feel about me?"
Fleur leaned in a bit closer with a smile. "I know this might sound cliché, but you’ve become a source of inspiration for me. I’ve never met anyone who fights for justice so passionately. That’s what drew me to you."
In that moment, Hermione felt her heart race. Their eyes met, and a gentle tension slipped into the air—something they both knew but tried to ignore.
"Great! Let’s move on to easier questions, for example, how do we spend time together?" Hermione quickly suggested, returning to the script.
Fleur, still a bit flustered, smiled. "We often go out to cafés or take walks in the park. I love our walks, and you always share interesting books with me."
They continued discussing the details, adding new elements to their story. Time flew by unnoticed, and soon the conversation became more relaxed. Hermione suggested pouring a little wine to lighten the mood.
"So, what do you think about the corporate dinner?" she asked, raising her glass. "It will be our first official outing together."
Fleur thought for a moment. "I think it will be fun. Although it's a bit scary. I never thought I’d be pretending to be someone I’m not."
"But you can play your role," Hermione encouraged, leaning in closer. "And remember, I’m with you. We can do this!"
Their eyes met, and Fleur felt a surge of joy inside her at the thought of the upcoming event. The night gradually filled with laughter and conversation, and soon they began joking about possible misunderstandings at the dinner.
"Can you imagine if someone actually asks about our date?" Hermione said with a smile.
"I'd just make a joke about it," Fleur replied, easing the tension with laughter. "I’ll say it’s a secret we can’t reveal."
At that moment, the tension between them eased slightly, but a spark remained, lingering in the air and reminding them that perhaps this "fake date" could become something more than just a game.
***
The relationship between Fleur and Hermione gradually evolved over the month, shifting from formal and "fake" meetings to something more personal and natural. Each time they met "for show," whether it was for dinner or an event, something changed between them. The initial boundaries of their arrangement began to blur, and with each meeting, Hermione and Fleur learned more and more about each other.
One day, they agreed to meet at a small café near the Ministry. Hermione arrived a little early but soon spotted Fleur, who was walking briskly towards her with a soft smile on her lips.
"Have you chosen something yet, ma chérie?" Fleur asked as she sat down across from her.
"No, I was waiting for you," Hermione replied, her voice relaxed, but there was a spark of excitement in her eyes.
They browsed the menu, and after ordering something simple, they dove into conversation. Hermione noticed how easy it was to talk to Fleur about work, hobbies, and even simple everyday matters. Over the past few weeks of their fake meetings, they had grown much closer, and now, sitting in this cozy café, they were discussing things that really mattered to them, rather than work or the upcoming corporate event.
"You know," Fleur began, stirring her spoon in her cup, "I never thought I could communicate so openly with someone in such a short time. I usually keep my distance from people. But with you... I feel like I can be myself."
Hermione froze for a moment, her heart beating a little faster. "I feel the same way," she replied softly. "I feel at ease with you. You're smart, genuine, and... incredibly beautiful."
Fleur smirked and, slightly blushing, looked at Hermione. "You say that as if my veela aura is affecting you. But thank you. I appreciate it."
These meetings began to happen more frequently—they would have lunch together or take walks through the streets, discussing not only their workdays but also personal dreams, fears, and desires. With each passing moment, Fleur felt her heart beat stronger when she was near Hermione.
One evening, they stepped out of the Ministry, and Fleur suggested going for a walk. Their footsteps echoed on the empty street, and a slight autumn chill hung in the air.
"Do you still think this is just an arrangement?" Fleur suddenly asked, their hands accidentally brushing against each other, but neither of them pulled away.
Hermione paused for a moment; her gaze turned toward the starry sky. "I feel like this has stopped being just an arrangement," she replied quietly. "I’m not playing a role anymore. I genuinely enjoy spending time with you."
Fleur slowed her pace, studying Hermione's face. Her eyes were filled with sincerity. "It's more than a 'fake relationship,' and I can call you my friend, right?"
Hermione smiled and nodded. "Right."
Gradually, everything began to change. At work, they started to approach each other more often, catching each other’s eyes in passing, stealing glances, and exchanging smiles. They increasingly met outside of work, genuinely enjoying each other's company. With each new day, they opened up to one another more and more, and their touches, glances, and words became natural and tender.
***
A month flew by very quickly, and the corporate evening welcomed them with open arms. Fleur and Hermione both chose outfits that highlighted their style while leaving room to conceal some nervousness. Fleur wore an elegant floor-length dress that accentuated her figure, while Hermione opted for a fitted yet formal evening gown that made it clear she meant business.
When they arrived at the venue—a luxurious banquet hall with low lighting and exquisite decorations—Fleur felt her heart race. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and conversations from colleagues, and the air was rich with the aromas of various dishes.
"Are you ready?" Hermione asked as they entered the hall.
"Ready, but let's try not to look too tense," Fleur smiled. "It's important that everyone believes we’re a couple."
They headed to the drinks table. Fleur was pouring champagne into two glasses when Daphne walked by.
"Fleur! Hermione! How are you both doing today?" she exclaimed joyfully. "You seem very close. I hope you have plans for the evening?"
Without missing a beat, Fleur replied, "We decided to have some fun and spend the evening together."
Hermione nodded and added, "Fleur always finds interesting ways to make the evening special."
Daphne looked at them with a smile, as if she sensed a spark in their interaction. "That's wonderful! How long have you been together?"
Fleur and Hermione exchanged glances. "About six months," Fleur replied confidently. "We have a lot in common, and we can always find topics to discuss."
"How sweet!" Daphne smiled at them. "You must have a ton of funny stories. Don't forget to share them with us later!"
They left Daphne, and Hermione whispered to Fleur, "That went well. She doesn’t seem to suspect that things aren’t exactly as they seem between us."
"Then let's keep it up," Fleur replied, and they both headed towards the table where other colleagues were gathering.
As they approached, they were greeted by Greg, one of the senior staff members. "Look, here are our stars of the evening!" he said with a smile. "How are you girls enjoying the treats?"
"I hope all the dishes here are as wonderful as you!" Fleur winked at him, and everyone laughed.
Hermione felt her face flush but decided to continue, "We just hope to enjoy this party. After all the hard work, it’s time to relax!"
Greg nodded with a smirk. "You're right; this is great! We need more parties to lighten the mood."
The conversation continued, and soon other colleagues joined them. Fleur and Hermione became the center of attention, discussing their "relationship" and sharing lighthearted jokes.
After a while, as the noise and laughter filled the hall, Fleur saw her boss, Mr. Bennett, step up to the stage to make an announcement. Colleagues hushed in anticipation, their focus shifting to him.
"Good evening, everyone! I want to thank you for the excellent work this year. We have achieved so much and are entering the next with great enthusiasm," he began. "But before we continue, I want to introduce our new candidates for the department head position. We have Fleur Delacour and, of course, Mr. Lestrange."
Fleur felt a wave of nerves wash over her. She looked at Hermione, who squeezed her hand as if to encourage her.
"I hope this decision is fair," she whispered.
"It'll be fine," Hermione replied, winking. "Just stay confident."
Mr. Bennett continued to speak, but Fleur no longer heard his words. She was thinking about what lay ahead, about how important it was for their fake relationship to appear genuine, and about how ready she was to fight for her position.
After the announcement, the evening continued, and soon another colleague, Max, approached them. "Fleur, Hermione! I've heard about your relationship. How long did you date before the official first date?" he asked cheerfully.
"Before the official first date?" Fleur raised an eyebrow, trying to appear casual. "We're just enjoying our time together. What’s the point of labeling it as official or not?"
"Interesting," Max smirked. "Maybe you should try planning a romantic dinner? Right over there, at the dessert table — that would be the moment!"
Fleur and Hermione exchanged glances, and Fleur couldn't help but laugh. "We'll see, maybe we will!" she joked, and Max, satisfied, moved on through the hall.
Meanwhile, Hermione, not breaking her focus on the conversation, opened her eyes slightly and noticed that the looks they received were becoming more knowing. She felt that things were gradually slipping out of control and, with a slight tension, began to wonder how they would handle the upcoming challenges and keep their secret.
Fleur and Hermione stood by the champagne glass when Mr. Bennett, Fleur's boss, approached them. He looked in a good mood, with a smile on his face and a drink in hand.
"Fleur, it's great to see you!" he said, nodding politely. "How's your evening going?"
"Wonderful, thank you," Fleur replied with a light smile, trying to appear relaxed. "It's nice to spend time with colleagues."
"I'm glad you could make it," Bennett said, casting a fleeting glance at Hermione. "How's your work going? I hope you're ready for the challenges ahead."
"Yes, of course," Fleur replied quickly. "We're currently working on several important projects."
"Great, your efforts are very much appreciated," he continued. "We have an important election for the department head, and I know you're among the favorites. Just don't spill the secret." Winking, Mr. Bennett raised his glass as if toasting to them.
Fleur felt the tension rising. "I hope my achievements speak for themselves."
At that moment, loud footsteps interrupted the conversation. Everyone turned to see Rudolf Lestrange entering the hall — known among colleagues for his sharp remarks and cold demeanor. His presence always created an atmosphere of tension.
"Sorry for the intrusion," he said with a smirk as he approached. "But I think it’s time to clarify a few things."
Bennett shot Lestrange an obviously displeased look. "Rudolf, this is not the time for your comments."
"Exactly," Fleur chimed in, trying to remain calm. "We're just enjoying the evening event."
Lestrange, ignoring her words, continued, "You know, I'm curious about what it's like to be in a fake relationship. It must be quite difficult, don't you think?"
All eyes turned back to Fleur and Hermione. Fleur felt her face burn with embarrassment, and Hermione clenched her fists, moving closer to Fleur.
"What do you mean?" Hermione asked sharply, trying to maintain control.
"I just think that when it comes to a career, it's better to choose more appropriate ways to win the boss's favor," Lestrange sneered, his tone mocking.
"Rudolf, stop it," Bennett said sternly, clearly irritated. "This is inappropriate."
"Really?" Lestrange rolled his eyes. "Tell me, Fleur, isn't it strange that you jumped into a relationship so quickly? Don't you think it reflects poorly on you?"
Fleur, trying not to give in to her emotions, took a step forward. "Our relationship matters, regardless of its nature. And I won't let you question that at our corporate event."
Lestrange just smirked, seeing her voice tremble with tension. "Ah, so it's true? But then why are you hiding behind a fake mask? Why not be open about your true feelings?"
At that moment, Hermione couldn't take it anymore. "Get lost, Lestrange. We have no desire to listen to your nonsense."
Bennett, noticing the rising tension, said, "Rudolf, enough. If you can't behave like an adult, it's better for you to leave the evening."
Lestrange frowned, but seeing the rest of the hall looking at him disapprovingly, he pressed his lips together and nodded, turning to walk away.
As soon as he left, Fleur and Hermione exchanged glances, feeling a sense of relief. Bennett, smiling encouragingly, said, "Don't pay attention to his words. Fleur, you know how valuable you are to our team."
"Thank you, Mr. Bennett," Fleur said quietly, still feeling her heart pounding in her chest.
"Let's continue the evening without any worries," he added before moving on to other colleagues.
Fleur and Hermione stood side by side, realizing that the situation had become more tense than they had anticipated.
Fleur and Hermione exchanged glances, and Fleur, tilting her head slightly, suggested, "How about stepping out onto the balcony, ma chérie? A bit of fresh air will help cool down."
Hermione nodded, and they both made their way to the door leading to the balcony. As soon as they stepped outside, the cool evening breeze brushed against their faces, bringing with it the scent of flowers and the sounds of the night city.
"Ugh, I didn't expect the evening to become so tense," Hermione said, taking a deep breath of the air. "Lestrange always knows how to ruin the mood."
Fleur leaned against the railing, gazing into the distance as she tried to calm her nerves. "He's just jealous. You know how he always reaches for positions and influence. But I won't let him ruin what I've built."
Hermione moved closer, her expression becoming more serious. "You handle this better than most. I'm proud of you, Fleur. You deserve this position."
Fleur turned to her, her heart racing. "Thank you, Hermione. That means a lot to me." She noticed the way Hermione's eyes sparkled in the moonlight, and in that moment, a subtle thread of understanding formed between them.
"You know," Fleur continued, biting her lip slightly, "it's strange to pretend that we have a relationship, but you make it feel so easy."
Hermione smiled shyly; her cheeks slightly flushed. "I didn't expect this either. But maybe it's not so bad?"
Feeling the tension building between them, Fleur took a step closer. "Yes, maybe. You support me so much, and I feel like I can rely on you."
Hermione, not breaking eye contact, quietly said, "You can count on me too, Fleur. We’re friends."
Fleur paused for a moment, her heart racing in her chest. "Friends... yes, friends," she said, realizing how that word affected their connection.
The wind gently tousled Hermione's hair, and Fleur instinctively reached out to tuck a strand that had fallen across her face. "You’re beautiful, you know?" she said, the words slipping out unexpectedly.
Hermione hesitated, her expression becoming serious. "You are too. And I want you to know that I’m not here just for a fake relationship."
Fleur felt the tension rise between them. "What do you mean?"
Hermione took a deep breath. "I’m here because it matters to me that you’re happy. I... I value what’s happening between us."
Fleur smiled, warmth flooding her heart. "So, do I. I never thought we would have something more than just a facade."
The words hung in the air, and they both felt their breaths quicken, the distance between them becoming less significant. Fleur stepped even closer, and Hermione, instinctively leaning in, found their lips just inches apart.
"Sometimes fake relationships can turn real," Fleur whispered, hope lacing her voice.
"Yes," Hermione confirmed, their gazes locking, creating an atmosphere filled with anticipation and tenderness. In that moment, they realized they were ready to risk something greater than just friendship or a pretense.
At the tensest moment, just as Fleur and Hermione were almost about to touch lips, the door to the balcony suddenly swung open, and Mr. Bennett entered with a wide smile on his face.
"Hey, there you are!" he said, oblivious to their intimate moment. "Everyone has started discussing who will participate in the best dance!"
Fleur quickly stepped back, her face burning with embarrassment. "We were just... getting some fresh air," she said, trying to regain her composure.
Hermione nodded, feeling her heart race. "Yes, the evening is truly wonderful."
Mr. Bennett, unsuspecting, continued, "Great! Come back; we have a lot of exciting things ahead! Fleur, you haven’t forgotten your promise to perform during the dance part of the evening, have you?"
"No, of course, I remember," Fleur replied, feeling her nerves intensify. She glanced at Hermione, and her gaze reflected a hint of regret.
As they returned to the hall, Fleur tried to focus on the conversation with her colleagues, although her mind was still swirling with thoughts of Hermione. The colleagues were discussing recent projects, but Fleur only mechanically nodded and answered questions.
Meanwhile, Hermione found herself close to Fleur, their shoulders occasionally brushing against each other, and every contact sent waves of warmth and tenderness through them. At one point, as they stood at the drinks table, Fleur unconsciously placed her hand on Hermione’s waist, gently squeezing her, which sent shivers down both their spines.
"What are you doing?" Hermione whispered, but her voice was filled with surprise rather than reproach.
"Just... want you to know I’m here," Fleur replied, her eyes sparkling.
Then their attention was drawn to the dance moment, and everyone began gathering on the dance floor. Mr. Bennett announced the start of the dance, and Fleur, feeling nervous, turned to Hermione. "Are you ready?"
"Together?" Hermione asked, tenderness evident in her eyes.
"Of course, ma chérie," Fleur replied with a smile, taking Hermione's hand and leading her to the dance floor. They stood next to their colleagues, and the music began to play.
Fleur stood close to Hermione, her hand still resting on Hermione’s waist, and they began to move slowly to the rhythm of the music. Couples twirled around them, but Fleur and Hermione seemed to be the only ones in their own world.
"You really dance beautifully," Fleur whispered, looking into Hermione’s eyes.
"I never thought it would be so enjoyable," Hermione confessed, her heart filling with joy.
Feeling bolder, Fleur pulled Hermione closer, their bodies touching, and Hermione didn’t pull away. She felt Fleur’s warmth and confidence.
With each beat, the music became more intriguing, and Fleur, embracing Hermione, quietly said, "Let’s forget about the pretense. Let’s just be ourselves."
Hermione nodded, their eyes met, and at that moment, they both realized that something more than just a game had developed between them. The dance continued, and with every step, they drew closer to each other, losing track of time and the world around them.
The stage lights softly illuminated them, creating an atmosphere of magic. Soon, they found themselves at the center of attention, and Fleur, laughing, said, "It seems we’ve become the stars of the evening!"
Hermione smiled, feeling something new ignite within her. "I suppose we have," she replied, savoring the moment.
Fleur raised her hand and ran it down Hermione's back, their breathing becoming rapid. "Tell me, have you ever dreamed of dancing with someone special?"
Hermione, immersed in the atmosphere, gently replied, "With you—yes."
The music shifted, and their movements became more fluid. Fleur, holding Hermione by the waist, began to dance as if the whole world around them had vanished, leaving just the two of them. In that moment, they both understood how truly happy they were.
***
Fleur stood in Bennett's office, feeling a surge of excitement inside her. She was awaiting an important meeting but couldn’t anticipate how everything would turn out. Suddenly, the door swung open, and Lestrange entered with a smirk, followed by Mr. Bennett.
"Delighted to see you, Fleur," Lestrange said sarcastically, his voice sounding threatening. "I believe we have unfinished business."
Fleur tensed slightly, trying to maintain her composure. "What do you need, Rodolphus?"
Lestrange placed several papers on the table. "I just wanted you to take a look at these documents. They are evidence of a fake relationship with Hermione Granger."
Bennett, not waiting for Fleur to respond, frowned. "What does this mean, Lestrange?"
"It means that Fleur pretended to be in a romance with Granger just to gain support for a promotion," Lestrange declared, confidently pointing to the documents. "And here are the testimonies of several witnesses. They confirm that your relationship with her was not genuine."
Fleur felt a chill run down her spine. "That’s not true! My feelings for Hermione are real!" she exclaimed, her strong French accent evident, her voice trembling with emotion.
"Real? Or just a facade?" Lestrange scoffed, turning to Bennett. "Do you really want to trust someone who builds their career on lies?"
Bennett looked at Lestrange, then at Fleur, his expression growing more serious. "That’s enough, Rodolphus. I ask you to leave the office."
Lestrange shot a contemptuous glance at Fleur but, to his delight, left them alone.
Fleur gathered her thoughts, feeling her heart race. "Mr. Bennett, I know how all this seems. Yes, it’s true that everything between me and Miss Granger started as a fake date. I just wanted to keep my position and prevent someone else from taking my place. But now I’m truly in love with Hermione."
Bennett listened intently, his expression softening. "Do you want to make this official?"
"Yes," Fleur replied, her voice growing more confident. "I want her to know how I feel. This isn’t just a game. I want our romance to become a reality."
Bennett nodded, contemplating her words. "I see that you genuinely care about Hermione. But this is still a complicated situation. I will think it over and announce my decision regarding the new head next week."
Fleur felt the tension ease a little, but it was still unclear what would happen next. "Thank you for your understanding, Mr. Bennett. I promise to give my all to earn this position."
"You need to focus on your feelings right now, Fleur," Bennett said. "I hope you can sort out your relationship with Miss Granger."
Fleur nodded, leaving the office with new thoughts and hope for a future with Hermione. Now that she had opened up about her feelings, all she could do was wait to see what would happen next.
***
Fleur stood in front of Hermione's apartment door, feeling a surge of emotions inside her. It was as if her legs didn’t want to move, but she knew she had to do this. Taking a deep breath, she pressed the doorbell. Her heart raced in her chest, as if anticipating an important conversation.
In a moment, the door opened, revealing Hermione with a look of surprise on her face. "Fleur! What are you doing here?" she asked, slightly guarded but warm in her tone.
"May I come in?" Fleur replied, her voice trembling with excitement.
"Of course," Hermione said, letting Fleur into the apartment. "You look a bit anxious. Is something wrong?"
Fleur stepped inside, her eyes scanning the cozy room. She always felt comfortable here, but today was different. "I just spoke with Mr. Bennett," she began, unable to hide her emotions.
Hermione furrowed her brow, her attention sharpening. "And? What did he say?"
Fleur took a deep breath, gathered her thoughts, and said, "He knows about our... situation. Lestrange tried to use it against me, claiming our relationship is just a game. I told him the truth, Hermione."
Hermione froze, her eyes widening. "What do you mean?"
"I said it all started as a fake date, but I fell in love with you," Fleur breathed out, her voice trembling with honesty. "I can't hide it anymore. My feelings are real, and I want to be with you."
Hermione seemed to struggle for words. She simply looked at Fleur, her eyes reflecting a mix of surprise and joy. "Are you serious?"
"Absolutely, mon amour," Fleur confirmed, her heart beating faster. "I know it might seem strange, but it’s true. I don’t want to lose you."
"But what about work? What will Bennett say?" Hermione asked, her voice tinged with concern.
"Bennett said he would think about who the new head would be, and he saw that I genuinely care about you," Fleur replied, her gaze full of hope. "I’m ready to fight for us, no matter what."
Hermione stepped closer, and Fleur felt her heart fill with warmth. "I`m in love with you too, Fleur," she finally said, her voice soft and confident. "Ever since we started working together, I`ve felt that there`s something special between us."
Fleur smiled, tears of happiness sparkling in her eyes. "Then let`s make it official," she said, hugging Hermione. "I want you to know that you are important to me."
Hermione hugged Fleur back, their bodies pressed closely together. In that embrace, they both felt all obstacles could be overcome and that their love was not just a game. It was the beginning of something new and real, something worth fighting for.
Fleur and Hermione stood wrapped in each other`s arms, and with each passing moment, their hearts filled with warmth and tenderness. Holding back a wave of emotion, Fleur pulled away slightly to look into Hermione`s eyes. There was so much tenderness in that gaze that Hermione felt her heart flutter.
"You know," Fleur began, her voice dropping to a whisper, "when I first saw you, I never imagined you could change my life so much. With you, I feel happy."
Hermione smiled, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I feel the same way. I never thought this could turn into something more."
Fleur learned in closer, her lips almost touching Hermione`s. "You are incredible, Hermione. I love your mind, your strength, and your kindness. You bring light into my world."
In that moment, time seemed to stand still. Hermione blushed, but her heart raced with happiness. "You make me just as happy, Fleur," she said, her voice trembling with emotion. "You give me confidence and make me believe that love is possible."
Fleur gently caressed Hermione`s cheek, causing her heart to race even faster. "May I kiss you?" she asked, her voice soft and full of tenderness.
Hermione nodded, and in the next moment, Fleur`s lips brushed against hers. It was a slow, trembling kiss, full of sincerity and tenderness. Fleur ran her hand down Hermione`s back, pulling her closer, and they both felt a spark slip between them, igniting passion.
When they finally pulled away, both were breathless with emotion. Hermione looked at Fleur with admiration. "That was… wonderful," she said, feeling everything inside her blossom.
"We've only just begun, mon amour," Fleur smiled, her eyes sparkling with happiness. "Let’s make this evening special."
Hermione glanced at the clock. "How about we cook something together? I have a few recipes I've been wanting to try for a while!"
Fleur beamed with joy. "That sounds perfect! I love cooking, and it’ll be even more fun with you."
***
A week had passed since the evening Fleur confessed her feelings and revealed that everything had started with pretense. An important event lay ahead — Mr. Bennet's decision on who would take his place. Lestrange had been strutting around the office with a smug grin, certain that his plan to expose Fleur had worked. But Fleur remained calm because she knew she had already won — in her relationship.
The day of the announcement arrived, and all the department staff gathered in the large conference room. Mr. Bennet stood before them, composed and stern as always.
"So," he began, surveying the crowd. "After much deliberation and assessment of your achievements, I’ve made my decision about who will lead our department. It wasn’t easy, and I considered many factors… But my support and trust go to Fleur Delacour."
The room fell silent, but soon applause erupted. Lestrange stood frozen, his face filled with utter confusion, unable to hide his disappointment. He stepped forward, trying to say something, but Bennet simply waved him off. "You had your chances, Lestrange. But I value sincerity and honesty above all."
Fleur rose, accepting congratulations from her colleagues, her gaze shining with victory and pride. She couldn't help but smile — Lestrange had finally been put in his place. Yet even this professional triumph paled in comparison to what lay ahead for her.
***
Fleur sat in her new office, reviewing documents and thinking about how quickly everything had changed. A soft knock suddenly came at the door.
"Come in," she called, and Hermione appeared in the doorway.
Fleur looked up and immediately broke into a smile. "Hermione?"
Hermione stepped inside, barely containing a grin. "So, how's the new boss?" she asked, but her tone was more playful than inquisitive.
"Very good," Fleur replied, standing up and moving closer. "But you're not here to talk about my work, are you?"
Hermione’s smile grew wider, and she pulled a small flower out of her bag, playfully twirling it in her fingers. "Remember when you once asked me to pretend to date you?"
Fleur laughed. "Oh yes, how could I forget? But things are different now."
"Exactly," Hermione continued, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "Now I’m here to officially ask you out on a real date."
Fleur paused for a moment, clearly surprised that Hermione had taken the initiative. But soon, she laughed again, this time with pure joy and relief. "You are simply amazing, ma chérie," she whispered, stepping even closer. "You know, I’ve been looking forward to this date."
"Then I’m ready," Hermione winked, but before she left, she stepped closer to Fleur and kissed her, gently and sincerely.
Fleur pulled her in, holding her close for a moment longer, and when the kiss ended, she whispered, "Every evening we spend together will be the best of my life."
They both laughed, and hand in hand, they slowly headed for the exit. This time, their relationship wasn’t a pretense — it was real, tender, and genuine, a love that was just beginning to bloom. And ahead of them lay something truly beautiful.