the_debt_of_time

now finds herself in the arms of the self-proclaimed Slytherin Prince and supposedly reformed Death Eater,
Draco Malfoy. It begs many questions including―"
"Stop reading," Draco advised him, reappearing at Sirius's side with a glass of
bourbon in hand. "Let's just say that mine and Granger's loyalties in the war are called into
question, and she's also rumoured to be pregnant with my child. But, depending on whether
or not the kid comes out with red or black hair, it could be one of yours," he said and
gestured to Ron and Harry who gaped at him. "I know, I don't get it either. As if any girl
would pass up sex with me for either of you."
Harry shook his head, staring down at the words. "This is really bad."
"Very observant, Potter. Now, one of you go fix her." Draco gestured his hand
toward the stairs. "If I wanted to be around crying women I'd go home to my mother and
aunt. In fact, I think I do prefer their company," he said, finishing his bourbon and setting
the glass down on a nearby dresser.
"Cousin, always a pleasure." He dipped his head to Sirius and headed for the door.
"I fully expect to be compensated for being forced to deal with an irate Muggle-born."
"Prat," Ron muttered as Draco Disapparated from the top step of the porch.
Sirius turned and smiled at his godson. "You want to take care of her?"
Harry glared at Sirius and Ron. "Cowards."
Sirius shrugged. He knew that Hermione in this state was something he had a
reputation for making worse. Sad and distraught he could handle. Scared or passionate he
could certainly help with. But when it came to the humiliation of publicity, he was terrible
at comfort. He'd had plenty of publicity himself and took it all in stride, either energetically
feeding into the rumours for his own amusement or ignoring the papers altogether. Making
such suggestions to Hermione would only piss her off, and this was one week where he was
determined to keep on her good side at all costs.
"Remus is supposed to be over soon," he said. "If she's up to company we can stick
her in a room with him. They can commiserate over bad publicity, and he can cheer her up
by talking about boring books."
"Looks like I won't miss much, then." Ron nodded and headed toward the Floo.
"I'm going to stay at the Burrow for a few days. Mum's upset 'cause I never come 'round
anymore."
"Don't forget Hermione's birthday is Saturday," Harry reminded him.