To a Better End

Chapter 15

September 6th 1942

After much discussion, Hermione and Malfoy both agreed any relations they previously had would be put on hold in light of their return to school. Malfoy, however, still seemed intent on still calling her dear and offering her comforting shoulder touches. Hermione brushed it off and chalked it up to be out of habit, one he wasn't inclined to break.

Having spent the previous night packing their trunks for the upcoming school year, they woke up on Sunday fully ready to board the train to Hogwarts, their luggage carefully stowed in Hermione's bag until they reached the station.

Hermione finally convinced Malfoy to skip the suit and wear trousers with a button-up and some suspenders, insisting that it was both a time and age-appropriate outfit. The suit would only draw more attention to them. Hermione wore a red jumper, a black calf-length skirt, and a brown tweed jacket. After appraising each other, they agreed they fit in as much as one could amidst the forties.

It was a foggy morning, which didn't bring them any more comfort, all things considered. They made their apparition quickly. When they popped into the place, they were startled by the loud chattering and quick footsteps around them. As they stepped into the crowd, they noticed men in uniforms rushing about with worried faces.

With their trunks carefully piled onto their trolley, Malfoy and Hermione quietly made their way to platform 9 ¾ as quickly as they could. They took the entrance at a run and let out a sigh of relief at the calmness beyond the barrier. While there was still an obvious bustle, it didn't have the same level of stress the muggle side of the station had.

Assessing the familiar location, Hermione couldn't help the wave of sadness that overcame her as she observed goodbye hugs between students and parents. Before she could wipe the involuntary tear that betrayed her, Malfoy dabbed at her cheek with a handkerchief, clearing the drop away.

"Steady on, Granger."

She nodded in response and pulled herself into her mental library. She couldn't let herself succumb to her emotions. She had to be strong.

Passing the horde of students sharing final embraces with their families, the pair dropped their luggage at the drop-off point and boarded the train. With about half of the compartments open, the pair had plenty to choose from. Hermione instinctively went for the one she would share with Harry and Ron, pleased to see it was empty. However, Malfoy continued towards the back of the train.

"Hey," she said as she pulled him by his arm back to her. "Where do you think you're going?"

"My old compartment," he replied as though it were obvious.

"Well, dear , it's not yours yet, is it?"

Malfoy seemed to consider her words. He looked to the compartment longingly before sighing, reluctantly entering the smaller one with Hermione. Hermione sat in her usual seat by the window. Malfoy sat next to her and proceeded to lie down, placing his head in her lap.

"Read to me, dear," his voice was serene as he closed his eyes.

She tried to ignore the way his cheeks lit up at the sound of her laugh. "I'm afraid my literature is rather boring today."

"Nonsense." He opened one eye to look at her, "Your voice makes anything interesting."

Hermione pulled out a Potions book she purchased in Diagon Alley, hoping to get a head start on some reading for her classes. While they had already surpassed this year of education, the work wouldn't be identical, so she endeavoured to study. She glanced up at the compartment window occasionally as students passed by them, still as alert as ever. A face she knew passed by and she shook her leg to get Malfoy's attention. He opened his eyes just in time to see a very young Nott Sr walking by.