RETROUVAILLE // H. Granger x Male OC (Book 2)

45

Hermione paced anxiously in her office at the Ministry, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts. She had been devoting every spare moment to researching a cure for Draven's condition, her own work piling up as a result. It wasn't long before Harry noticed her preoccupation and decided to have a word with her.

Harry knocked gently on Hermione's door before stepping inside. "Hey, Hermione. Got a minute?" he asked, his voice laden with concern.

Hermione looked up, her eyes tired but determined. "Of course, Harry. Come in."

Harry shut the door behind him and took a seat opposite Hermione. He hesitated for a moment, choosing his words carefully. "Hermione, I've noticed you've been... distracted lately. I know you're worried about Draven, but your work here is starting to suffer."

Hermione bristled at Harry's words, her defensiveness kicking in. "Harry, you know how important this is. Draven's condition is getting worse, and I can't just sit by and do nothing."

Harry sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I understand that, Hermione. I really do. But the truth is, Draven's condition is incurable. You can't neglect your responsibilities here at the Ministry."

Hermione's eyes flashed with frustration. "How can you say that, Harry? There has to be something we can do. I can't just give up on him."

Harry leaned forward, his expression earnest. "I'm not saying you should give up. I'm saying you need to find a balance. You're one of the most brilliant witches I've ever known, and your work here is vital. But you're running yourself ragged, and it's not helping anyone."

Hermione's shoulders slumped, the weight of Harry's words sinking in. "I just... I don't want to lose him, Harry. I can't bear the thought of it."

Harry reached across the desk, taking Hermione's hand in his. "None of us want to lose him. But you need to take care of yourself too. We all do. And Draven... he needs you to be strong, not just for him, but for yourself."

A tear slipped down Hermione's cheek, and she quickly wiped it away. "You're right, Harry. I've been so focused on finding a cure that I've been neglecting everything else. I just... I feel so helpless."

Harry squeezed her hand reassuringly. "You're not helpless, Hermione. You're doing everything you can. But don't lose sight of everything else in the process. We'll get through this together, one way or another."

Hermione nodded, her resolve strengthening. "Thank you, Harry. I'll try to find that balance."

As Harry left her office, Hermione took a deep breath, feeling a mixture of relief and lingering frustration. She knew Harry was right, but it didn't make the situation any easier.

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Meanwhile, Draven was alone in his quarters, struggling with his symptoms. His vision blurred intermittently, and the ever-present headaches were becoming more debilitating. He fumbled with a vial of potion, his hands shaking as he tried to steady himself.