The Older Malfoy

Friends

Walking up the drive a week later, Hermione found herself sorting her clothing, a simple summer dress that Hestia had sent her. As she moved to knock on the heavy oak door, the door opened and Adrian Pucey almost walked into her.

"Granger, curious to find you here," He commented, sidestepping past her. Hermione apologised in shock to find the tall man smiling down at her. His dark blonde hair perfectly styled back showing off his chiselled face.

"Well, I'm sure I'll see you around Granger," Adrian said simply as he began to walk off, Lyra called,

"Adrian your cloak" Hermione watched Lyra walk from a drawing-room. Her hair was down shaping her face with a light curl. She had a look of contentment on her face, something Hermione had rarely seen. She stopped at the sight of Hermione, a frown dancing over her features,

"Hermione, what are you-"

"Thank you Lyra," Adrian said with a smile taking the cloak. As he took it Hermione watched in horror as he kissed Lyra's hand with a smirk before walking away. Hermione tried not to glare as he walked away,

"Sorry about that," Lyra stuttered. She walked inside rubbing the back of her neck, Hermione realised she had caught her off guard and for once Lyra looked embarrassed,

"What can I help you with?" Lyra asked as she walked into the drawing-room.

"I thought we could spend the day together if you're not busy" Hermione suggested nervously, Lyra looked up at her as she lifted her goblet. Lyra looked at her confused before nodding,

"Sure, do you have anything, in particular, you would like to do?" Lyra asked as she sat,

"It's a nice day, why don't we go for a walk?" Hermione suggested nervously. Lyra nodded, setting her goblet down and sorting the parchment on the small table. Hermione glanced at it, she could see the cursive writing of the contract and Hermione felt her throat constrict. Lyra stood,

"Ready?" Lyra asked. Hermione nodded and Lyra led her outside. They walked around the gardens of the Lestrange Estate and Hermione found herself falling into step with Lyra, the taller Malfoy had her hands in her jean pockets, her simple jumper enough to keep her warm in the April weather.

"Can I ask you something?" Hermione said as they walked through the orchard.

"You just have" Lyra teased. Hermione gave a tight smile, making Lyra chuckle,

"Are you alright about all this engagement nonsense?" Hermione asked. Lyra smiled sadly,

"You have to remember something, I'm only doing this because I have to get around a clause in a document" Lyra explained. Lyra stopped walking as they got to the small summerhouse. Looking out over the gardens, Lyra sighed as Hermione lent against the white wood.

"So why not marry someone you like?" Hermione asked, her nails were picking at the wood. Lyra turned and looked at her with a small frown,

"That's kind of the issue and purpose of this nonsense, is finding someone to put up with me"

"Lyra, you're meant to marry someone for love, not to get around a clause" Hermione stated. Lyra smirked, shaking her head walking over to her.

"What would you have me do?" Lyra asked as she walked close to Hermione looking down at her. "Give up my entire life, or marry someone who I can mildly stand and get on with my life"

"It's not for me to make your choice. I just wouldn't be doing it" Hermione said simply. Lyra gave a small smile before leaning down and kissing her cheek. Hermione could feel Lyra's breath dancing over her cheek. Hermione turned, her loneliness overcoming her. She captured Lyra's lips in her own. The kiss was soft, simple and as Hermione's eyes fluttered close and her fingers slid into Lyra's hair Hermione was content. She was content with Lyra's arms around her. With Lyra holding her, exchanging chaste kisses. Lyra rested her forehead against Hermione's. Looking up into grey eyes Hermione could see Lyra relax, that contentment returning as Hermione tangled her fingers in her hair.