To Brew A Scandal by stars_in_motion

Chapter 8

- NOT MY STORY!! ALL CREDITS TO @stars_in_motion ON A03!!

Preparation for Harry's birthday celebration was reminiscent of the packed and nervous hours before the Yule Ball, except that Molly was fussing over her gown and hair instead.

They had decided days ago, after hours standing in Madam Malkin's shop, that a satin burgundy brought out complementary tones in Hermione's skin. The other gown she had purchased, a gorgeous emerald green dress, she stowed away for other potential public engagements. The sleeves of her new dress hung beautifully off her shoulders, emphasising the delicate expanse of skin across her shoulders and neck. A year in Australia had increased the number of all her freckles tenfold, no matter how many sun protection charms she reapplied throughout the day. Paired with the curls the three women had managed to tame after a few spells and a generous amount of Sleekeazy, the Hermione she found looking back at her in the mirror shocked her.

Even after some care, Hermione felt grateful she still looked much like herself. She looked more elevated than her usual appearance, never having bothered with much of the fussing of gowns and primping of her hair. For a moment, she stood taller, smiled at herself, and let the confidence seep into her bones.

She was Hermione Jean Granger, after all. Any one of these men would be lucky to court her. "Now, where is this ball, anyway?"

"Harry spent the last year renovating the country estate the Black family owned, so we will apparate there." Ginny gave Hermione a knowing look. "He was worried the original portraits would insult his guests."

Hermione shuddered at the memory of Walburga Black screaming obscenities at her. After that daily spectacle at Grimmauld Place, Hermione felt firmly that permanent sticking charms ought to be outlawed.

Molly helped Ginny finish up at lightning speed, muttering her thanks for her smooth red hair for cooperation before they set down the stairs to greet their fathers as they chatted.

The men stood up and Hermione watched her father grow emotional with every step she took toward him. He went to grasp her hands, his eyes looking faintly wet. "Your mother would be so proud. You are a vision."

The topic of her mother was rarely brought up, as it was still incredibly difficult for the both of them. Hermione clutched her father's hands tighter and fought the tears that pooled in her eyes. "Thank you, papa."

"You be good, all right? Arthur, don't let her out of your sight."

"Of course, Ernie."

Arthur led them outside, where Hermione and Ginny gently grasped his arm before he apparated them away with a pop.

"Ensure I haven't splinched your gowns before we walk in, girls."

Ginny and Hermione followed Arthur through the entryway, where they were announced by their new titles. Though Hermione was not a part of any peerage or notable wizarding family, they did tack on the mention of her Order of Merlin. How kind.

They walked together through the crowd, sending small smiles to those they recognised. It reminded her of the fuss during the Yule Ball. Everyone was staring at them, mouths agape. Hermione discreetly glanced down at her gown, wondering if something was amiss to garner such a reaction.

They continued leisurely strolling through the room with faux smiles at those they were not introduced to yet.

"Gods, you must look carefully," Ginny warned under her breath. "You can sometimes discern the glamours out of the corner of your eye, only when you're not looking right at them. Most witches, even wizards, are covering up some sort of blemish or mark. You only have to check to make sure they're not completely atrocious underneath all that charm work."