Chapter Text
Hermione Granger was no stranger to seasons—especially the yearly season in the Ton, where many eligible young women find their husbands. Hermione had been through four seasons, and despair had begun to set in as the flowers began to bloom outside her window, as she would have to endure yet another season with no prospects. Her mother was already discussing eligible bachelors with Hermione, whether she was actually listening or not.
“I hear there might be a new gentleman this year,” Jean’s voice was like silk as she spoke aloud. Her needlework was held delicately in her hands as she worked with precision that only time could bring.
Hermione hummed in response while turning a page of her book.
“Is that so, dear?” Her father turned the page of his newspaper. “Who might it be?”
“I heard that His Grace, Draco Malfoy is looking for a bride this year.” Hermione’s father dropped the paper in his hands and looked at his wife, who had a coy smile on her lips.
“Duke of Wiltshire?” Jean nodded. Hermione rolled her eyes. She had heard of Mr. Malfoy through whispers, even though he had yet to make his face known in the Ton. He was very much a rake, and she never understood the appeal of marrying a man who would never change, even if he was filthy with wealth, being the sole heir of the Black and Malfoy fortunes.
“I believe I will take a stroll to Ginny’s house,” Hermione voiced as she closed her book and quickly made her way out of the sitting room before her excuse was caught. Her mother sighed.
“Don’t worry, dear,” Hugo spoke as he picked his paper back up, scanning the page to find his place, “She’ll find a husband.”
“I do hope this will be the year. She’s been in society for four seasons and has yet to find a suitable husband.”
“She’s had Mr. Weasley’s interest since her debut.” Jean huffed at her husband’s comment.
“And yet there has been no proposal, Hugo.” Her needle pierced the fabric harshly. “If she keeps turning down every man, then she’ll become a spinster, and I’ll never get any grandchildren.”
“Just give her time. She’s a smart woman who knows what she wants in a man.” Jean huffed once more before Hugo continued speaking. “Besides, maybe the right man will make himself known this season.” Hugo’s eyes glanced over his paper to look at his wife. He watched as her head raised and a smile began to form on her lips as she turned to look at him.
“Yes, perhaps you’re right. However, she might need a little,” Jean paused for a moment to find the right word, “help with finding the right arms. I do want her to marry for love.”
“Of course, dear.” Hugo smiled.
Hermione had found herself in Ginny Potter’s sitting room, just as she had told her mother, with a cup of tea in her hands.
“Did you hear about Draco Malfoy?” Ginny asked after their pleasantries had been exchanged and the tales of their time away had ended. Hermione rolled her eyes and let out a small groan.
“Not you as well,” Hermione placed her tea on the table in front of her.
“He is the most eligible bachelor of the season,” Ginny said pointedly before taking a sip of her own tea. “I’m sure Lady Whistledown will write of him.”
“We don’t even know if he will be joining the Ton this season or not. It is merely a rumor.” Hermione replied. “Might I remind you that you are married and with child, Ginny. You’re not exactly looking for a suitor.”
“That doesn’t mean I can’t keep up with the latest gossip,” Ginny placed a hand on her barely swollen belly while giving Hermione a pointed look, “I can also say that it is not gossip regarding Draco.” Hermione gave a teasing smile; she was also one who enjoyed reading Lady Whistledown’s papers each season, but refused to admit to it.
“And how might you know that?”
“He is in the office with Harry, right at this moment.” Ginny sniffed lightly after speaking. Hermione’s face dropped slightly as a look of surprise graced her face.
“He’s here? I would say that is the information you would lead with, Ginny!” Hermione glanced at the door, knowing Harry’s office was just down the hall.
“I thought you weren’t interested,” Ginny teased.
“I’m not!” Hermione quickly replied, “I just assumed it was just a rumor. Besides, this will give my mother far too much hope. I could tell she’s already plotting for me to find a suitable husband this year, and I don’t think your brother will be proposing anytime soon.” Ginny scoffed.
“I had given up on him when he refused to propose during your debut. He’s an idiot who keeps stringing you along each year with the promise of a proposal.”
“Not everyone is lucky enough to receive a marriage proposal during their debut, Ginny.” Hermione reminded, “He is also not ‘stringing me along’ because I have received many suitors with whom I have turned away.”
“That doesn’t mean you need to wait for him. I understand that we all grew up together and that you have feelings towards him, but you don’t have to wait for him.”
“I’m not,” Hermione bristled at Ginny’s words. “Enough about me. How is your pregnancy? Different than the other?”
“Oh, it’s fine.” Ginny waved her hand. “I want to know what you’re wearing tonight at the first ball of the season!”
Hermione had missed the steel blue eyes that watched her from the doorway as he left the Viscount’s office.