Starting Over

Titanic!AU

Hermione/Percy

Hermione tried not to turn and stare at the other people waiting to board the ship. The short amount of lessons she had endured over the last few weeks taught her as much, yet she wanted to glance around and make sure she was fine. Was her posture fine? Was she dressed right?

Fingers grazed her elbow. "Relax, Hermione," Sirius, her guardian, murmured from his spot next to her. "You're a Black now. Whatever people think, you're part of one of the most well known families to ever exist."

"But—"

"Not the time," Sirius murmured softly. "You know that knowledge is power, yet that doesn't only relate to your books. That also applies to what people overhear. When we board and are shown to our set of rooms, I'll answer anything you need. Let me go and see what the hold-up is. Harry. Escort Hermione whilst I ask around."

On her other side, Harry shifted slightly closer and Sirius disappeared.

Hermione stifled a sigh. She knew the upper class didn't sigh from boredom. They probably revelled in being bored and standing around doing nothing. She had peeked in at enough of their parties to see just that happening - though once Mrs Black caught her, Hermione made sure never to go near the parlour again.

But once the old witch had died, the estate going to her eldest son, things changed. Sirius Black swept in with his Godson and turned her life upsidedown. He produced a third ticket to sail to America and left the house for his younger brother.

Somehow Hermione went from being the housekeeper to being the lady of the house, adopted by Sirius Black, a strange man who didn't seem to understand things like classes or that a housekeeper was just a housekeeper, but a kind man who had looked after her for the last few weeks, getting her lessons so she could pass for upper class when she had approached him in a panic, stating that she couldn't pretend to be something she wasn't.

Sirius wouldn't allow her to board the ship as a maid or anything that truly befitted her station in life. Instead he presented her as his daughter. When she pointed out that people would realise, he had in turn explained that he was Sirius Black and he could do what he wanted.

The corset was uncomfortable and Hermione shifted, trying to be discreet as she moved into a more comfortable position. Harry moved slightly closer.

"Are you okay?" he murmured.

Hermione nodded softly. She hadn't had much of a chance to get to know Harry yet, but from the small amount of time they had spent together, she realised he was a lot like Sirius. Impulsive and reckless but also kind and caring. He didn't look down on her either, and treated her like an equal. She knew very little about Harry - only that he had been living with his Aunt and Uncle before Sirius took him in. Hermione wasn't in a position to ask questions but she felt at ease around Harry.

"I'm okay," she whispered in reply. "It's all so new."

"Yeah, it is," Harry agreed softly. "But we can do this."

Hermione silently processed his agreement. It was as though Harry's choice of words were because he truly understood her, but before she could really consider how, Sirius was back with them, his hand on Hermione's wrist. "We need to move to the front," he said, glancing at the pair. "The ship is almost ready to board. I mentioned who I was and that I was unhappy that we've been kept waiting."

"And… and that got you first on?"

"Us," Sirius reminded her softly. "Yes. One thing I didn't mention - before her death, my mother invested in the Titanic. Our name brings us… certain prividges aboard this ship. Harry, you escort Hermione. I'll lead the way, the best way to clear a path."

Sirius stepped forward and Hermione slipped her arm through Harry's, gripping his forearm tightly. Harry stuck close to Sirius on the way through the crowds and when Sirius stopped abruptly, the pair almost walked into him.

"Sirius?" Harry murmured, causing Sirius to begin walking, a miniscule shake of his head.

"Sorry, I thought I saw… I'm not sure. A ghost perhaps?" Sirius replied, frowning slightly as he looked back at them. His gaze moved past Harry and Hermione, searching for a brief moment before they continued on.

Hermione was curious, but knew not to turn around. She had to play her part. She wasn't Hermione Granger anymore. She was Hermione Black and she didn't want to let Sirius down. Not when he had done so much for her.

...oOo...

Hermione tried not to stare in awe as she walked onto the deck. She had never been on a boat before, let alone a ship, and she could feel herself shaking. Whether it was with fear or excitement, she didn't know. She could hear words of greeting, but couldn't focus on anything except the sound of her boots against the wooden planks of the floor.

It was like a dream, walking into the ship, the soft red carpeting silencing the sound of their footsteps, the staircases wider than the ones in the house she had been so used to cleaning. People looking at her as though she was someone important and not just a housekeeper.

It seemed to take an age until they stopped at a door. "Our suite," Sirius said, as a Porter opened the door for them. Hermione's mouth dropped open as she was escorted in, still on Harry's arm. She let go, turning slowly as she took it in.

"Mr Black, the main chamber is through here," the Porter offered, pushing a door open. Sirius' case was already sitting at the foot of the bed. With Sirius' gaze on him, the Porter moved quickly to the next door, opening it to reveal another large bedroom, finally opening the third door to a room done up in softer, more feminine colours. "For Lady Black," he said. The man bowed and quickly left, closing the door behind him.

Sirius grinned as he looked around. "Well, our first home until we arrive in America," he said. "I suggest we spend the day resting and prepare for dinner tonight. We'll be here for some time so I think it best we play nice with all the stuck up folk."

"Mr—"

"Sirius," he said quickly, correcting Hermione's slip up. "Remember, our new life. You're my daughter here. You'll be my daughter in America. Harry is listed as my nephew. This is about a better life for all of us."

"But I don't understand," she said softly.

"You will one day," Sirius replied, his voice softening. "I know what it's like to live in that hellhole, Grimmauld Place. I think if we forget the classes that society labels us with, we're all a lot more alike than anyone realises."

"We are?" Hermione asked.

Sirius glanced at Harry before nodding his head. He reached for Hermione's hand. "Hermione, when I found out I was your guardian… I mean, your mother died and you had no male relatives to take charge of you - so you were left in the care of my mother as your employer and through her, I became your guardian as the 'man of the house' well, when I actually found out about you, I had three choices. I could let you continue to be a servant to that house - allowing you to stay there with Kretcher and serve my brother when he returned; I could arrange a marriage for you so you weren't my problem anymore; finally I could accept you into my family."

"But why the third?" Hermione pushed.

Sirius let out a long sigh, looking pensive. "I realised years ago that I had no intentions of taking a wife, therefore I'd have no children of my own. Harry's the son of my best friend and I'm his Godfather… but I became your guardian and to me, it was a sign. I know I'm not your father, but I could be your family."

Hermione stared at him. All that time, she had assumed that Sirius did it because he felt sorry for her - but that was only the start - the main reason he had taken her in as he did was because he wanted a family. That was something she could accept easier. She understood what it felt like not to have a family. Her mum had died a few years back and she never expected to belong to one again… Sirius actually wanted her to be his family.

She nodded. "I'd like to be a part of your family," she admitted.

The hopeful look was replaced by a blinding smile and Sirius threw his arm around her, grabbing Harry with his other hand and pulling him into the hug.

...oOo...

Hermione didn't understand why she had to dress up so much. If the steel-blue evening gown wasn't enough, she somehow had to deal with white gloves up to her elbows, an opera bag and fan. The shoes at least were comfortable and she did like the soft feel of the scarf on her neck so there were no complaints about those.

Though with the corset trying to slowly drain the life out of her, she was quite thankful for the fan.

She walked down to dinner on Harry's arm once more, feeling as awkward as Harry looked. It was clear that he wasn't used to fine clothes either, and he kept tugging nervously at the bow-tie that he had been given to wear. It was a different story as they reaching the dining area though. Harry straightened as the trio were guided to what had to be the best table. Hermione's heart sank at the sight of the other chairs. Clearly they would have to interact with others.

A few minutes later, they were joined at the table by a cold looking man with blond hair. Hermione's eyes widened as she recognised him and his son. The pair had often visited the house during one of Walburga's parties and she hoped they wouldn't recognise her.

"Mr Black."

"Lucius," came the reply. Hermione didn't even need to look to tell that Sirius wasn't fond of the man. She had listened to each interaction, trying to learn from the way Sirius spoke to people so she wouldn't mess up herself, and he hadn't spoken to anyone else in that tone.

"I didn't expect to see you on this venture," Lucius continued. He sat down in one of the seats, his son sitting in the next. A waiter pulled out the chair for his wife who glanced over the family curiously.

"I expect you thought you'd never see me again," Sirius retorted. "But I'm surprised why you think I'd have informed you of my intentions to be here."

"Indeed. It is good to see you."

"It's always good to see me," Sirius replied with a smirk. "But it's a shame I can't say the same about you." His gaze moved to the woman. "Narcissa."

"Cousin Sirius," Narcissa replied. "I was unaware that you married."

"That's the housekeeper from Aunt Walburga's home," the younger man stated, frowning at Hermione. "Father—"

"A housekeeper for your wife?" Lucius asked, his lip curling into a sneer. Hermione repressed the urge to run from the room. She took a deep breath and kept her gaze on his.

"My daughter actually," Sirius replied without hesitation. "Illegitimate of course, though I do acknowledge her as mine, I made some mistakes when I was younger, like not marrying her mother when I had the chance - and not being there for my daughter when she needed me. I asked my mother to look out for Hermione whilst I was away on my travels - but it wasn't until Mother's death that I found out my daughter was being treated like a servant. I quickly changed that and made sure that wherever I went, she would be at my side."

Hermione's gaze shifted between the three people that had joined the table. Narcissa had lost interest in the conversation and Lucius was staring at Sirius, measuring his words and searching for a lie. Draco however had his gaze fixed on Hermione.

There was a challenge in his eyes and Hermione watched him back. She wasn't going to be intimidated by the likes of him. She was a part of Sirius' family now and that meant she belonged at that table.

"And the boy?"

"James Potter's son," Sirius replied. "I'm his Godfather and legal guardian. Now, are there any more questions because me and my family are here to dine, so perhaps you can find another table? I would like our first meal aboard the ship to be a pleasant experience and with you joining us, it won't be."

Hermione's lips curved up slightly as Lucius hissed some words at Sirius - ones she couldn't hear properly, before he moved to the other end of the table.

"A friend of yours?" Harry asked with a snort.

"An old acquaintance who married my cousin," Sirius replied. "But let's not let them spoil our trip, shall we? We can make friends with so many others." He glanced around. "Well, maybe downstairs there'll be some people more our speed - it's a bit dull up here, isn't it?"

Hermione nodded slightly, relieved that Sirius had been the one to say it.

"Well, it's only for a week," Sirius pointed out. "When we get to New York… well, we can make our lives whatever we want them to be."

"What do you want your life to be?" Hermione asked.

Sirius shrugged. "Anything but what it has been."

"And you?" she asked Harry.

"I was thinking I'd like to be a policeman or something," Harry admitted. "You must have a dream too, Hermione."

Hermione considered this for a long moment and when she looked back at her new family, she could see they were genuinely interested.

"My greatest passion has always been reading. I would love to teach others to do so. But like my mother did - she taught me to read and we were nobody. I think everyone - no matter their class - deserves to have the knowledge and ability. With this skill, maybe people can get better jobs and have better futures?"

Sirius smiled. "Maybe I could fund a centre?" he suggested.

Hermione beamed at him. "You'd do that?"

"If it makes you happy," Sirius replied. "Give us a few weeks to get a place and get settled. Once we've got our bearings in New York, we'll do that."

...oOo...

"So… do you want to go on an adventure?" Harry murmured.

Hermione suppressed a yawn. "You mean something more exciting than this?" she asked. "I'm not sure. That kind of excitement might be too much. I might die from having too much of a good time."

Harry snorted. He glanced to where Sirius was charming a group of people. "I met this guy, Ron. I was talking to him yesterday after dinner on the deck and he seems nice enough. I saw him outside and he talked about a party… downstairs."

"Harry, we're not supposed to go down there," Hermione hissed. "Do you know what happens to people who go to parties that they haven't been invited to?"

Harry nodded. "My aunt and uncle threw parties all of the time. I wasn't even allowed to leave my room because people weren't to know I existed. I think we deserve this. Let's go down to the party downstairs. I'll stay with you at all times and if you feel uncomfortable, I'll bring you straight back up."

Hermione glanced back at Sirius for a moment before nodding at Harry. "Fine, but just for a short while."

Harry grinned as Hermione slipped her arm through his, set her glass down on the table and walked from the lounge with him.

...oOo...

The party downstairs was loud, lively. Hermione felt a little more at ease with the third class than she did with the first.

Curious looks came their way and Hermione slipped the gloves off, shoving them into her bag in a ball along with the fan.

"Feel better?"

"I'd feel better if I were wearing something more simple," Hermione replied.

Harry chuckled. "I think we both would, but next time we'll get changed first. Come on, it'll be great."

He led the way across the room with Hermione clutching his arm and quickly stopped by a redheaded man who was around their age. It didn't take long for Harry to introduce the pair, and him and Ron quickly fell into conversation.

Hermione stood awkwardly as Harry was talking to Ron, she let her gaze slowly move around the room. Eyes were on her, making her feel like she didn't belong down there - she supposed she didn't anymore. When people looked her way, they saw someone from the upper class, even though beneath the clothes, she was like them. She understood them.

"Hello dear," came a motherly voice from behind her, and Hermione spun, her gaze falling on an older redheaded woman. "Excuse my son's manners for distracting your... "

"My cousin," Hermione replied softly.

"Yes, and leaving you without an introduction to anyone else. Come with me."

Hermione glanced back at Harry uncertainly, but he didn't notice.

"You'll be quite safe with me, I assure you," the woman continued. Hermione nodded slightly and fell into step next to her as she led Hermione to a group of redheads.

"This is my family. My husband, Arthur, My daughter, Ginny, and my sons. Bill, Charlie, Percy, Fred and George, and you've met Ron. Everyone, this is the cousin of Ron's friend…"

"Hermione," she offered. "It's nice to meet you all."

Two identical men stepped foward, each reaching for one of her hands and bringing it to their lips in sync. They kissed the back of each hand before winking at her.

"So, what's a beautiful woman like you doing slumming it down here with us?" one asked.

Hermione snorted, amused. "There are far more beautiful women down here than me," she pointed out. "But I was promised an adventure. Harry promised it wouldn't be dull down here as it is upstairs."

"Dull?" Ginny asked doubtfully. "First class can't be dull. Imagine all of the people you meet up there. Imagine the luxury."

Hermione shrugged slightly. "Some luxury doesn't excuse the people up there. Vile people who thinks that because they have money they can offer it to my father whilst also asking my father if their son can marry me. Or women with more jewellery than sense who are trying to hang off my father's arm when it's clear to everyone else that he's already dismissed them. Down here there are no expectations like that at least."

"You mean, we can't tempt you to marry us?" one of the twins asked, pouting slightly though a smile threatened to appear.

"What a shame," the other said.

"A travesty," the first countered.

"An absolute crime."

"Hush - you leave Hermione alone, away with you," Molly said, shooing her sons away. "I'm sorry about them."

"I don't mind. They're harmless and already better company then I've had to endure!"

Molly smiled. "They are good boys," she agreed. "So, Miss Hermione—"

"Please, I'm just Hermione," Hermione said.

Molly nodded slightly. "Hermione, you're off to New York. A fresh start? Business?"

"A new life for all of us," Hermione replied. "I want to be a teacher. My father is going to open an establishment there. When my mother taught me to read, it opened up a whole new world to me and I'd like to help others. With the knowledge reading brings, it could allow people to apply for better jobs, to learn about things like history and science."

"You know a lot of people who can't read would be too poor to pay to learn," Percy said.

Hermione turned to him with a smile. "Thankfully it'll be a place where people can learn for free. I've been thinking about it since I confided my dream yesterday to him. It brings about jobs too. Everything from keeping the place clean, teaching, running and organising. I'm excited to start. I've already started drawing up plans."

"It sounds like a great idea. I'm actually really into history. When we leave the ship, perhaps you can exchange contact information with our mother?"

"Really?" Hermione's face lit up at the idea of already finding teachers. "That would be wonderful."

"This sounds like a big project," Percy said. "Have you considered the size of the property you would need?"

Hermione shook her head. "Not yet. We're going to take a few weeks to settle in. In that time, I plan to do some research and find out what exactly is needed and what spaces are available. I need to look at the jobs that are around and the requirements for them and then decide on classes to help people learn the right skills. It's a lot to consider but Sirius… father has insisted that he'll help me."

"I could help with history," Percy offered thoughtfully, watching Hermione. "I study it a lot. I've always liked the idea of teaching and passing on my knowledge."

"Percy taught me to read," Ginny pushed.

"And Bill taught me," Percy said with a smile. "You're not like the other upper class folk we've met."

"Well, I've not been upper class for all that long," Hermione replied. "Illegitimate daughter. My father got my mother pregnant and went off on his travels. My mother was the housekeeper and when she died, I was the housekeeper. It wasn't until Walburga died that he returned and claimed me as his daughter." She hoped she sounded as convincing in the story as Sirius had the night before. "I've been upper class for a few weeks."

"That makes more sense," Charlie said. "They walk around with sticks up their… well, and you don't. You seem uncomfortable in your clothes where they'd be used to wearing them."

"I'm used to simple dresses and I'll be back to the more simple ones when we arrive in New York. For now—"

"Hermione, here you are!" Harry came up beside her. "I'm sorry, I got lost in conversation and when I looked around, you were gone."

"Not to worry. I've just been telling this family about my idea," Hermione said, glancing at Harry. "Everyone, this is my cousin, Harry. Harry - this is Ron's family. Ginny, Fred and George, Percy, Charlie and Bill. And Ron's parents."

Harry's gaze lingered on Bill and Hermione wasn't sure why his cheeks reddened slightly. "It's great to meet you all."

She glanced at Bill, trying to work out why Harry was staring, only to realise that Bill was staring straight back at him.

Uncertain on how to address the staring, Hermione glanced around at the family again. "What brings you all to America?" she asked.

"The same as you," Arthur said. "A fresh start in life."

"England didn't give many opportunities to us," Molly added.

"But we hope in America - there will be a lot more. For instance, applying for positions at your school," Percy stated.

"You all seem so lovely and friendly. It would be wonderful to get your help with the school," Hermione admitted. "I'll find out the hotel Sirius had made arrangements in and give you the name so you can contact us through there. What about the rest of you?"

"Though I'm happy to give you a hand, I'm hoping to have my own adventures," Bill said, looking away from Harry finally. "I want to work at the museum - I want to be one of the people who finds the items they display."

"I want to work with animals," Charlie said.

"We're inventors," George said, with a grin.

Ginny shrugged slightly. "I'm not sure what my plans are just yet. Perhaps getting a job to do my part in helping my family. Once I'm there and I see what sort of jobs are available, I'll make my choice."

"America is going to make a big difference to all of our lives," Harry said, his hand resting on Hermione's shoulder. "No more insane relatives controlling us. The more space between me and my aunt's family, the better."

A drink found its way into Hermione's hand. "To the Titanic," Arthur said.

They all raised their glasses before drinking.

...oOo...

"Miss Black, fancy seeing you here?"

Hermione rolled her eyes as she closed the book she had been writing in. "Mr. Malfoy," she replied. "I hope this isn't a long visit as I have plans to meet Harry in a few minutes."

"I wanted to talk to you about the offer father made at dinner yesterday," Draco said. "I don't understand why your father turned it down and came here to insist that you speak to him. He appears to listen to you, even though you're a woman, and he'll take your thoughts into consideration."

"Oh. What are my thoughts?" Hermione asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Surely you realise that a union between a Black and a Malfoy is in the best interests of everyone."

"Aren't you my cousin?" Hermione replied.

Draco scoffed. "Of course not. Do you think we believe that story about you being Sirius' actual daughter? Father… and myself of course… are willing to overlook your previous class status and your bad upbringing in our attempt to unite the families."

Hermione stood up, tucking her inkwell and quill into the satin purse she had next to her, and slipped her book inside before doing the clasp. She fixed Draco with her hardest stare. "Even if I was still just a housekeeper, I could do a lot better than you," she snapped. "I could be living in squalor and I would choose to remain there than be your wife. Do not presume to know my thoughts on the matter. Yes, I'm a woman - and perhaps you shouldn't act like women are beneath you at the same time you approach me for my hand - something which my father has already turned you down for. I do believe going behind his back is a show of bad character."

Draco's smile faded with each word. "You're lucky to have someone like me even consider marrying you," he replied. "Without Sirius' name, you'd be nothing."

"Is this how all the upper class speak to each other?" came a voice from nearby. "I thought that the men up here had a better upbringing. I've heard my brothers speak to women with more grace and we're third class. Malfoy, did you say? This will be an interesting story to share downstairs later - that a Malfoy has a worse upbringing than us folks do."

Draco gaped at the man and Hermione grinned. "Hello, Percy," she said.

"Hermione," he replied, nodding at her, before turning his gaze back to Draco.

"How dare you be on our deck," Draco gasped.

"He has my invitation," Hermione lied. "He's a friend and I said he is welcome to visit with me and Harry whenever he wishes. As Sirius' mother invested in the ship, I'm sure the crew will have nothing to say in your favour on this, Draco."

"My father will hear about this," Draco warned.

"And my father will hear about your attempts to go behind his back," Hermione retorted. "Run along, Draco."

As Draco stormed off, Percy offered his arm to Hermione and she quickly slipped her arm through. "Your timing was perfect," she said as they began to stroll slowly towards the stairs to the lower deck.

"I was downstairs," Percy replied. "A coincidence I was standing, looking out at sea, when I heard your voices. You were directly above me and… I didn't like how he spoke to you."

"I didn't like it either. Apparently it comes with the class. Things were easier when I was a housekeeper. I was overlooked but I prefer that to having these marriage requests from people who care only for my name."

"With the upper class, I'm afraid that's what you should expect," Percy said. "It's about making the best matches."

"Not for us. Father won't force me to marry anyone. He's already told me that I can pick whoever I like. As long as he approves of their character, I'll have his blessing."

"Even if they're third class?"

Hermione chuckled. "Even if they're third class," she agreed.

"Don't tell Fred or George. They might make it their mission to get his approval."

"That's an excellent idea. Sirius would probably approve, and though your brothers are nice, I'm not sure I could marry someone who is so…"

"Attached to his sibling?" Percy offered.

"Treats everything as a game or joke," Hermione finished. "What about you, Percy?"

"Me? Well, I did have two girls back home. I briefly courted Penelope but that lasted a year. After that, I fell for Audrey."

"Has she travelled with you?"

Percy shook his head. "She didn't want to come. I don't blame her - it meant she would have to leave her family. I realised that I had to choose between her and mine and the fact that I couldn't stay there to marry her told me that my love wasn't as deep as I had once thought it was. It's something strong to give everything up for love and though I know my family would understand if I chose to stay and marry her, I still couldn't go ahead with it."

"Two women. Quite the ladies' man," Hermione teased.

Percy chuckled. "Not quite, I assure you. I was fond of Penelope but that didn't last long. Audrey was someone I could marry, but neither of our hearts were really in that relationship. And you? I can imagine you would have many suitors."

"None," Hermione replied.

Percy stared at her. "How is that possible? No men to attract your attention when you were out doing the shopping or taking in deliveries?"

"No-one," Hermione replied. "Except perhaps Draco as you've just witnessed."

"Well, it's their loss and certainly my gain as I get the pleasure of your company," Percy replied.

Hermione couldn't help when her smile widened and her grip on Percy's arm tightened slightly.

"So… there'll be another party tonight," Percy said. "Well, from what I gather, there will be one every night. I tend to prefer reading a book, but… perhaps if you attend the party, I'll have a reason to set the book aside and attend myself."

"I enjoyed the party last night, meeting you and your family," Hermione admitted. "I confess that spending the evening with you… you and your family I mean, sounds like a wonderful idea. What time should I come down?"

"I can meet you here and escort you in," Percy offered.

"I'd like that very much," Hermione said. "I'll have to bring Harry. Sirius will most likely insist."

"That's fine. I got the impression yesterday that Bill was quite fond of him, and he's made good friends with Ron, which I approve of."

"You approve?" Hermione asked, curiously.

Percy nodded. "If your family befriends mine, it makes it all the more likely that I'll see you once the ship docks. The more reasons for our families to reunite again once we're in New York."

Hermione blushed slightly at the look Percy gave her. She wasn't sure if he was eager to work with her or eager to actually see her, but she suspected and really hoped it was the latter. "Do you have anywhere to be right now or would you like to talk some more?"

"Nothing that could distract me from your company," Percy replied softly. "When it comes to you, Hermione, I find I have all of the time in the world."

"I'd say the same, but if I missed dinner, Sirius wouldn't be pleased," Hermione replied.

"I'll wait for you on the deck where I found you earlier," Percy said. "Now, let me show you around the ship. We've already started exploring as Fred and George are too curious for their own good."

"Which means you have a lot to show me," Hermione replied.

"Very much," Percy agreed softly. Hermione didn't miss the suggestive tone in his voice and she felt her cheeks redden. "But for today, we'll stick with a tour of the ship."

"Want to go on another adventure after dinner?" Hermione whispered once she returned to the cabin to get ready. Harry's face lit up at the mention.

"Do you even need to ask?"

...oOo...

Percy was waiting there as promised and Hermione felt bad about making him wait longer. She had insisted that they return to the room and get changed into something less dressy and she had picked one of her day dresses, choosing to avoid her corset this time around. She had pulled the pins from her hair, allowing the tangle of curls to fall around her shoulders instead.

Harry had left his dinner coat and bowtie, choosing to open one of the buttons around his throat, before escorting Hermione back down.

Percy's gaze was approving once he laid eyes on her, and Bill quickly pushed off from the wall he had been leaning against.

"Just thought I'd keep Percy company," Bill hurried to explain, giving Hermione a warm smile. She didn't miss how that gaze found Harry and the staring between the pair commenced once more.

"You look stunning," Percy remarked quietly. "I thought you were beautiful before, but… the difference is you look more real now. You look comfortable, at ease."

"These are still a bit more fancy than I'm used to, but I feel more myself in them," Hermione admitted. "Plus I can breathe better without the corset. When I get to New York, I'll dress like this all of the time."

"The men will be queuing up to garner your attention."

"Perhaps they aren't the men I want," Hermione replied boldly, her gaze fixed on Percy. "Shall we?"

"Wait. Hermione, what did you mean by that?!" Harry said as she stepped forward, slipping her arm through Percy's. "Bill, what does that mean?"

"It means that your sister doesn't care about status in the slightest," Bill replied. "Come on, Harry, let's go inside. I want to see if I can get you dancing tonight."

"Of course she doesn't," Harry replied. "We didn't grow up as the upper class, you know. And when we get to New York, we're going to be like everyone else. We're going to have jobs, live normal lives."

"But Sirius Black is your father?" Bill asked, as the pair walked side by side with Percy and Hermione.

"Godfather actually. He adopted me a few years ago. He was the best friend of my parents before they died."

"Sirius is my guardian," Hermione confided. "My mother died and I was an orphan. As I had no male family, my guardianship passed to my employer. Walburga didn't make Sirius aware of this though, so I remained the housekeeper there and when she died, Sirius was made aware of me. Instead of keeping me on as a servant or marrying me off so he wouldn't have to deal with me, he made me a member of his family."

"My aunt and uncle had custody of me. They hated me and treated me as a servant. When Sirius… arrived, he fought for custody of me."

"You know, it doesn't change anything really. We'd already accepted you as one of us yesterday - upper or lower class, you're one of us."

Hermione turned and beamed at Bill. "Thank you, that means a lot."

...oOo...

"Hermione, this is Remus Lupin. We were discussing books earlier and he said he wanted to be a Professor."

Remus' smile slipped at the sight of Hermione for a moment before it widened again. "You must be Hermione Black," he murmured, reaching for her hand and pressing a kiss to the back of it. "I've heard good things about you."

"I'm at a loss then as you know me, yet I have yet to get to know you," Hermione replied with a warm smile. "But a Professor? Would you be interested in working in my establishment once it's up and running?"

Remus hesitated. "I would need to think about it. Perhaps when we arrive in New York, I'll have an answer for you. Whether that's confirmation or not, you have a good idea. It's nice to see someone looking out for others. Your… your father approves of this?"

"He does," Hermione said. "He…" she trailed off as a small toddler stumbled over, eyes wide as he looked up at her. "Hello sweetheart," she said. "Are you lost?"

"Ah, that's my son," Remus replied, reaching down and lifting the boy up. "Teddy."

"It's nice to meet you, Teddy," Hermione murmured softly. "He's cute."

"Thank you," Remus replied before lowering his voice. "I'd love to talk to you more, but Percy hasn't taken his eyes off you. I'll leave you to your date - we can talk again next time."

Hermione smiled and nodded before turning to where Percy was standing with his family, his eyes on her. The moment she looked, he glanced away, guilty at having been caught.

Hermione couldn't help how her smile widened. "It was nice meeting you, Mr. Lupin."

"You also," Remus replied softly. "You aren't what I expected."

"What do you mean?" Hermione asked.

"You were raised by your grandmother, Walburga… I had the displeasure of meeting that woman before. I assumed anyone raised by her… well, you're nothing like I expected and for that, I'm glad."

Hermione smiled. "Walburga didn't like me."

"Me either," Remus admitted with a chuckle.

...oOo...

"Here you both are!"

Percy quickly let go of Hermione, turning to face Sirius. "Mr Black, I'm Percy Weasley." He held his hand out, the expression on his face clear that he expected Sirius to ignore him. Hermione liked that he tried.

Sirius glanced between Percy's determined expression and Hermione's hopeful one. "Watch your hands around my daughter and I won't have a problem with you," he said, taking the offered hand and shaking it. "It's nice to meet you."

He turned his gaze to Harry and stared for a long moment between Harry and Bill. Hermione thought she was missing something important. "You too," he finally said, walking over to Bill and shaking his, before turning to Harry and Hermione.

"You could have brought me, you know. I've been stuck hearing from Lucius Malfoy how my daughter is fraternising with the lower class in full view of everyone else on the deck, whilst he also complains that I'm not approving your marriage."

"Draco was going behind your back, trying to convince me to marry him. Percy was on the deck below and overheard and came up to defend me. I didn't know you'd want to be down here."

Sirius looked around. "Much more fun than upstairs," he replied. His gaze stopped and his mouth dropped open. "Remus?"

"Remus? Oh - do you know Mr. Lupin?" Hermione asked.

"Vaguely," Sirius said, distractedly. "Introduce me."

Hermione nodded her head and turned, spotting Remus across the room. She led the way over, smiling when Remus glanced over, his eyes widening. "Mr. Lupin, I hear you met my father before. Allow me to reintroduce you."

"Remus!" Sirius exclaimed, his face lighting up in a way Hermione had never seen before.

"Sirius," Remus murmured in response. "It's been so long."

"You left," Sirius said softly. "I looked for you. I didn't even know your last name. I couldn't find you."

"We were sent away," Remus replied. "Because of…" he trailed off, his gaze falling on the boy that approached him. "Sirius, this is my son, Teddy."

"Oh." The smile faded. "Congratulations. I'm… happy for you."

"And I'm happy for you. You have wonderful children, I've had the pleasure of talking with both of them. You and your wife have raised them well." His lips set in a thin line. "I saw you a few years ago - saw you and your son out and… that led to me marrying."

"James' son and a girl left under my guardianship," Sirius replied, almost quiet enough that Hermione couldn't hear. "It was my chance to finally have a family. Your wife?"

Remus sighed. "She passed shortly after Teddy's birth," he admitted. "I… it was only until I thought you had married…"

"And what do you do now?" Sirius asked.

"I'm heading to New York to be a professor… though I'm fond of art."

"Portraits?" Sirius questioned.

Remus nodded his head.

"I've been meaning to have my portrait drawn," Sirius said.

Remus' lips parted slightly. "Oh. I'll… it's almost Teddy's bedtime. Perhaps he can rest in a bed in your rooms whilst we catch up?"

Sirius nodded quickly. "I'll walk with you to your room whilst you get your things," he said. He turned back to Hermione. "Don't rush back."

"We'll be down here for a few hours more," she promised. "Have fun catching up - perhaps Mr. Lupin would like to help me out with the teaching after all."

"I'll see what I can do to convince him," Sirius replied with a wink, before turning to follow Remus.

Hermione headed back to Percy. "Would you like to go for another walk?" she asked softly.

"Another dance first?" he asked, offering his hand. Hermione took it and allowed herself to be pulled closer to Percy. "You know I wouldn't overstep my boundaries."

"Sirius is very protective of me," Hermione replied. "He just wants me to have a nice life and to have a family. I set my own boundaries."

"Do you?" Percy's gaze began to move down her body before he shook his head slightly, returning his gaze to her eyes as they dance. "Nevertheless, I like to do things the proper way." He let go of Hermione's hand with one of his own and brushed her hair from her face. "Hermione, I barely know you but I want you to know that you mean a lot to me already. What I'm feeling now… it's not just something for the ship - it's something more in my eyes. I… I just need to know if you feel the same. I don't want to… set my heart on something that won't be. Do you feel this too?"

"What do you feel for me?" Hermione asked softly.

"Love, perhaps," Percy admitted. "That's why I need to know now."

"That's one word that would explain the way I can't breathe every time I look at you," Hermione said. "Like I'd give up everything if you asked me to. Is this what love feels like?"

"All I know is that if I met you in England and you wanted to stay there, I'd have been waving goodbye to my family as they got onto the ship." His fingers trailed down her cheek, moving carefully to her shoulder and stroking down her arm. His hand took hers again. "This is what love feels like," he clarified.

Hermione sighed happily as Percy pulled her closer. The last thing she had expected upon getting on the ship and traveling was to fall in love.

But it was one of the best moments of her life, being there in Percy's arms.

...oOo...

"Sirius, can I get your advi—Sirius, what are you doing!" Hermione shrieked as she walked into their rooms, to find Sirius and Remus lying amidst a pile of clothes. Harry walked into Hermione and the pair almost fell over.

Sirius and Remus quickly untangled from each other, both looking guilty as they pulled their clothes on. Hermione turned, having already seen more of both men than she had ever expected. Finally Sirius told her to turn back.

"Sirius, are you… I didn't realise. You never told me." Harry's hurt tone made Hermione's head whip around.

"It's true. I love another man," Sirius blurted out, looking utterly terrified as he looked between the pair. "Please understand. I've been in love with Remus for years. I'm sorry you found out this way."

Hermione thought over his words for a moment. It was unheard of, being with another man - yet Sirius was her family, Sirius took her in without even knowing her, accepting her no matter what. And who did it harm, him being with another man?

"I guess I understand why you never said anything before," Hermione said slowly. "And it's not hurting anyone… we're… we're family and family accept each other no matter what. I didn't expect… I'll get used to the idea. But years?"

Sirius nodded, turning his gaze to Harry.

"I'm in love with Bill Weasley," Harry stared, his voice shaking.

Hermione's eyes widened but she merely nodded. Harry was her family and had been a good friend since they had met. As long as her family were happy, that's what mattered. Bill and Remus were nice men and she wanted them all to be happy. "How did this all happen?"

"I met Remus years ago. Before your mother was the housekeeper, Remus' mother was. He was only thirteen at the time… but Mother and Father took him and his mother on. Housekeeper and gardener. Well, I never found it strange how I wanted to watch Remus from my window as he worked in the garden. In my eyes it was simple - I found him beautiful and couldn't keep my eyes off him. After a few weeks, I would find reasons to be in the garden, to talk to Remus. He was reluctant at first to even talk to me, but as time went on we grew close. We… finally entered into a romantic relationship - I had just turned fifteen and Remus was fourteen. It lasted two weeks. Two of the best weeks of my life. That was until Kretcher saw us together and told my parents. They sent Remus and his mother away immediately and without warning. I was heartbroken. When I was old enough to leave home, I did. I abandoned my family to find him but I never did. That was until now. Now I've found him again and this time I'm not letting him go. I still love him after all of these years."

"I still love you," Remus said softly. "I understand family comes first, so if you both don't accept this… but if I can convince you, I just want to tell you that I love your father so much and wouldn't ever hurt him."

"I want Sirius to be happy," Hermione murmured. "If you make him happy… welcome to the family."

"I agree. I don't have a problem with men being with men," Harry replied softly. "Hermione… how do you feel about me being with Bill?"

"I accept whatever life you choose," Hermione insisted. "I love you both, you're my family - do what makes you happy and I'll be here to support you."

Sirius grinned, looking relieved. "You came in asking for advice?" he said, quickly changing the subject.

Hermione nodded. "I'm in love," she said. "I… I know it's real. I just wanted to ask for your approval. I want to be with Percy."

Sirius' smile dropped a little bit. "Are you sure? You're so young."

"You just told me you were fifteen and in love - and look, it's still strong today," Hermione insisted.

"Good point," Sirius said. "How about we have tea with the Weasleys tomorrow? I can get to know both Bill and Percy better."

"I'm meeting him on deck after breakfast tomorrow. I'll let him know," Hermione replied.

"I can pass the message on when I go downstairs," Remus insisted. "Perhaps I should… Sirius, I'll see you tomorrow."

"Tomorrow, my love."

...oOo...

Hermione gripped the metal bars and pulled, trying in vain to open the gate that had been locked, forcing the lowest class to stay down there. "Percy," she shouted. "Percy!"

She watched someone push through the group, Percy's panicked experession as he looked at her. "What are you doing here?" Percy demanded. "Get upstairs. Get on a lifeboat. Now."

"No," she replied defiantly, tears on her cheeks. "What makes you think I could leave you?"

More people pushed to the front. "Is Sirius safe?" Remus asked, clutching Teddy tightly.

"I don't know," Hermione said. "There has to be a way to open the gates. We need to open them! Is there anything in any of your rooms?"

Percy shook his head. "I don't think there is. Hermione, please, go upstairs and get to safety. I love you and I don't want you to die down here."

"No. I'll find a way to save you," Hermione insisted. She turned around, hoping to find someone who would have a key.

As she moved back down the corridor, water swirling around her feet, she ran into Sirius, who was pulling along a steward. "The gate is locked. They're all locked in there," she said.

"Harry's got a boat for us," Sirius said. "I cut the boat down myself after I heard they locked everyone in here." He turned to the man. "Unlock this now."

"I can't. Orders from the higher ups," the man said.

There was a click and Hermione gasped at the sight of the gun. How had she not known Sirius was carrying one - that he had brought one on the ship. There was a wild, desperate look in his eyes as he shoved the man hard against the wall. For the first time, Hermione realised that Sirius was a desperate man and that he would do anything to protect those he loved.

And she realised that she didn't have any objections. In the face of losing the man she loved - losing the friends she had made. Seeing little Teddy on the other side of those gates - she knew that she would resort to such desperate measures herself.

"I said open it now," Sirius growled. "You can open it or I can take the keys off your body and open it myself."

"You can't do that. You'll get arrested."

Sirius glanced at the locked gate. "If I kill him for the key to free you all, will any of you turn me in for murder?" Sirius called.

Silence met his question and Sirius turned back to the man. "It'll be hard to prove it even if someone claims I did this," he said. "I just found my love after over twenty years apart. You will not stop me being with him."

"If you don't do it, I will," Hermione murmured. "I'm not leaving them on the other side of that gate."

The steward found the key and Hermione took it from his hand, opening the gate. Sirius quickly let go of the man, reaching for both Hermione and she was swept up in the crowds trying to get off the boat, but Percy's hand found hers and they were soon on the deck, Sirius right behind.

Sirius ushered the Weasleys, Remus, Teddy and Hermione towards the back of the ship. As he moved, he gestured to some of the girls that had come up from lower deck with them. Hermione could see that there were way too many people for one boat and she had a bad feeling about it.

She looked down at the boat, and the ladder.

"Hermione, go down first," Sirius insisted.

"What, I—"

Remus passed Teddy to Percy. "She won't get into that boat without you."

"I… women and children first. Remus, you—" Percy started.

"I'm neither a woman or a child. Hermione isn't getting into that boat without you, Percy. So you can stay up here which means Hermione'll have to risk her chances on one of the other boats, or you go down there, but take my son. If fate permits, we'll see you again."

Percy hesitated for a long moment.

"If you don't get her to safety, I'll never give you my blessing to be together. Get in that boat with her and you have my blessing," Sirius said desperately. "Get her safe, Percy. If you love her as she believes you do, you'll go with her. We don't have time for this. The longer we spend here, the less time we have to try and get on another boat."

"Thank you for everything," Hermione said, throwing her arms around Sirius. "I'll take good care of Teddy until we see you again - which we will." She began her decent down the ladder, Percy following not long after. Once they were in, Harry climbed back up.

"He won't go if Bill doesn't," Percy said sadly as Ginny was forced to climb down, Ron quickly following in an attempt to keep her on the boat. A blonde girl with large eyes joined them, and a few girls Hermione didn't recognise, and finally Molly.

"What about everyone else?" Hermione asked frantically.

"From what I could see, the other boats had loaded women and children already. They were letting men on. There's a chance we'll see them again," Molly said, trying to sound strong. "And if not, we still have each other. A smaller family than before, but a family nonetheless." She handed an oar to Percy and another to Ron. Hermione took Teddy from Percy's arms and cuddled him against her, hoping to keep him warm as the icy air whipped around them, making her shiver.

"A family," Hermione agreed, looking back at the boat, hoping to see Sirius and the others getting into a boat but in the darkness and with the frantic mass of people on the deck, she couldn't see.

"What are your names?" Molly asked, a smile on her lips though her words were forced.

"Luna."

"Lavender."

"Parvati and my sister, Padma."

The rest of the girls said their names, but Hermione forgot them as quickly as they were told. She couldn't look away from the ship as slowly sunk.

...oOo...

All the lifeboats she had seen were overcrowded. The ones that had left first, with few passangers, were heading back in the hopes of finding survivors. Hermione clung to Teddy, Percy pressing against them trying to offer them both warmth whilst he rowed.

It was all a blur to her after that. The rescue, the blankets being wrapped around them and the warm clothes. All that registered was Teddy who she could not be parted from, and Percy being at her side almost every moment, making sure she was okay.

Finally they were allowed into a large hall. Hermione saw all of the chairs and realised it was a waiting area. It already had groups of people, huddled together. Hermione realised each huddle was a boat-worth of people because escaping together built a sort of bond. Being around those that also lived gave a feeling of safeness.

They sat and waited.

Every so often, another group came in and everyone would look around hopefully, seeking out their loved ones. Luna was the first to leave the group, her father showing up and desperately looking for Luna's mother after he had reunited with his daughter. They had moved away to wait for others to come through in hopes she would show up.

She clung to Teddy, determined that she would do everything she could to take care of the boy if it came to the worst.

After hours of waiting, she finally saw familiar red hair and her hand reached out, gripping Percy's arm. Percy had been dozing off in the seat next to hers, but jumped at the touch, his head turning hopefully towards the doors.

He was out of his seat like a shot, the rest of his family close behind as he was reunited with the rest of the Weasleys with the exception of Bill. Hermione smiled as she watched, but her eyes were searching.

"We were split up as we got onto the ships," Charlie explained. "I'm almost positive. I saw them getting onto another boat."

Once more, they waited.

When the last four of their party walked in, Hermione flew across the room and into Sirius' arms.

He hugged her back and she felt Remus tug Teddy from her arms. "Thank you," Remus murmured softly, holding his son tightly. She let go of Sirius, turning to hug Harry. "I was so sure you'd all be dead," she confessed. "I was terrified of losing you."

"You can't get rid of us that easily," Harry said, with a tired laugh. "You think Sirius would give up the chance to see you and Percy get married? To help you set up your school - to raise Teddy along with Remus?"

"I'm glad you all made it," Hermione said, finally letting go. She stepped back, her hand finding Percy's. "So many people are waiting and I was counting the groups coming in. Only four more lifeboats worth of people to arrive and all of these people are missing someone. I was starting to lose hope!"

"We got lucky," Remus murmured. "But what now?"

"Now I book us all rooms at the nearest hotel whilst we find accomodation. Now we start our new lives with a bigger spring in our step because we made it. We survived and because of that, we need to live our lives," Sirius insisted. "Let's go."

He led the way from the room, Remus at his side. Hermione, Harry and the Weasleys all followed, saddened at all the people who were sitting there, hoping for a loved one that may not turn up.

There was nothing they could do to help the people still waiting, but they could take comfort in knowing that at least they were together again and that they had found happiness and were able to start the new lives they had all hoped for.

9627 words

Written for:

Assignment 6 - History of Magic - Task 3: Write about someone who doesn't care about stereotypes (approval from Lizzy to write about someone who doesn't care about social status/class)

Saint Patrick's Day Challenge: Setting - A body of water

Monthly - Cooking Club - Starter: Hermione/Percy

Library Lovers - Miranda's Big Mistake - Someone pretending to be someone they're not, finding out a secret, item: scarf

Lent - Write about a character who dies in the books, surviving

Caffeine Challenge - Write about spending time with friends

March Scavenger Hunt - Write about a parent

Jewel Challenge - Moonstone: Write about someone planning their future, write about Remus Lupin

Writing Club - Character Appreciation: Protecting family (Remus used in fic)

Writing Club - Disney Challenge - Write about an overprotective father

Writing Club - Days of the Month - Write about someone confessing something

Writing Club - Word: Kill, Character: Ron

Writing Club - Lyric Alley - 17 - And I'll hold you close, I'll stay the course.

Writing Club - Liza's Loves - Horrificator - Write about being trapped

Creativity Month - Historical - Titanic!AU - Hermione/Percy

1000 - Hermione/Percy

365 - Emotion: love

Writing month - 9,627/50,000