Redemption

44

I skipped down the steps, my mind buzzing.

6 weeks...

6 weeks?

That would date back to Christmas. That's when all of this had started.

That meant I got pregnant the very first time. I sighed, tucking my hair behind my ear. Life was so bizarre.

My dress caught under my foot and I teetered slightly, gripping onto the banister. A gentle hand caught my elbow, another on my waist. I turned, offering my rescuer a small smile.

Ron beamed back at me. His blue eyes so full of life, of love. Why hasn't I listened to him? I wouldn't be caught in this mess if I had. "Careful there, 'Mione."

My eyes began to water. His face fell. "Merlin, what is it? Has the Bat hurt you?"

I knew he had meant differently, but I couldn't help but nod. He had hurt me, in a sense. "He wants me fired."

His eyebrows went so far up his forehead I thought for sure they would disappear into his hairline. "I won't let that happen. I highly doubt McGonagall would either. You're the best for this job."

I let him pull me into his arms, resting my head on his chest. Merlin, I had missed being in his arms. I couldn't deny it. His warmth emanated through me, warming the coldness within me.

He whispered sweet nothings into my ear, calming my hysteric sobs. "I'll speak to the headmistress. Come stay at the Burrow a few days. It'll change your thoughts. Give time for things to cool down around here."

Within an hour, I was wrapped in a cloak much too large for me, a bag hastily packed by my side. Minerva kissed me on each cheek and when she pulled away, two little girls were pulling at my hands.

I looked down, smiling sadly. Cassie Canary and Waverly were tugging on my fingers, clinging to my dress. "Miss Granger, don't leave us." Said the little Gryffindor.

Waverly wrapped her arms around me solidly. "We need you, Hermione. Don't go."

My heart clenched at her words. They were so similar to the ones I had spoken earlier. "I'm not leaving. I'm taking a break for a few days. I'll be back before you know it."

The Canary girl frowned. "That's it then? You're going to leave us with Professor Snape? How will we ever manage?"

I giggled, shooting her a look. "I am certain you will be quite alright for a few days."

With that, I pressed a kiss to Waverly's forehead and sent the girls in their way, turning to Ron. He offered to pick up my bag, and off we were.

Off to the Burrow.

***

Mrs Weasley opened her arms wide when she saw me come through the door. "Hermione, sweetheart, it's been ages."

My heart sank. I had completely abandoned them. I had left for Hogwarts thinking of no one but myself. I had been selfish in my actions. "I'm so sorry." I managed, my words coming out as a sort of whimper.

Molly waved aside my apology. "Posh, dearie, you're here now. That's what matters. I knew we hadn't seen the last of you."

I took her hands, gripping them tightly. "I need help. I've made a huge mess of things and I don't know what to do."

Then it hit me. I didn't know what to do.