One great 'Over Protective Draco Hermione' fanfiction is 'A Different Sort of Bond'. In it, Draco's over - protectiveness of Hermione stems from their shared experiences in the wizarding world's turmoil. It shows how their relationship evolves in a really interesting way.
Well, it's the contrast. Draco was initially Hermione's enemy, so seeing him be over - protective of her is a big shift. It's like a complete role reversal. People like seeing the bad boy turn into a protector, and Hermione, being the strong - willed witch she is, still has her own agency while Draco is being protective. It makes for an interesting dynamic.
One example could be a fanfiction where Draco stands up for Hermione when other Slytherins are taunting her about her Muggle - born status. He might use his influence as a pure - blood Slytherin to make them stop. Another instance could be in a dangerous situation, like when there's a dark wizard threat in Hogwarts. Draco secretly helps Hermione by warning her or providing her with information to keep her safe.
Authors write this trope because it creates an interesting dynamic. Draco, coming from a Slytherin background and often being seen as a rival to Hermione's Gryffindor values, suddenly being protective adds a new layer of complexity to their relationship. It's a form of 'enemies - to - lovers' or at least 'enemies - to - allies' which is very appealing to readers.
One reason could be the complex relationship they have in the original series. Fanfic authors often expand on that. Maybe Draco realizes Harry's importance in the fight against the real evil, like Voldemort, and so he becomes protective. It also adds an interesting dynamic to the story, making it more appealing to readers who love exploring different character relationships.
One reason could be that they see her intelligence as an asset. Hermione is known for her brilliant mind, and Slytherins, who value cunning and resourcefulness, might respect that. They could also recognize her strength in the face of adversity and be drawn to protect her as a way to show their own growth beyond the typical Slytherin - Gryffindor rivalry. In some fanfictions, a Slytherin might have a personal connection or debt to Hermione, which leads to their protective nature towards her.
Maybe it's because he admires her intelligence. Hermione is known for her vast knowledge of magic, and Charlie, who has his own area of expertise with dragons, might respect that. He sees her as someone worth protecting because she could contribute a great deal to the wizarding world, and he doesn't want to see that potential lost.
One popular theme could be the idea of redemption for Draco. In many fanfictions, he is shown to overcome his family's dark past and prejudice. Another theme might be the power of friendship or love that develops between Hermione and Draco, despite their initial differences. It could also explore how they navigate the complex wizarding world together, facing challenges from their respective houses and the general wizarding society.
In a fanfiction with this theme, it could be set post - war. Draco and Hermione find themselves in a situation where they are on the run from some dark wizards who are after them for different reasons. During their escape, Hermione gets wet and cold. Draco, having a change of heart after the war, gives her his warm cloak. This act of kindness begins to break down the barriers between them, and they start to have deeper conversations, realizing they have more in common than they thought.
Perhaps there's a fanfiction where a powerful and dark wizard from outside the school is targeting Muggle - borns. Hermione, being a Muggle - born, is understandably afraid. Draco, who has always had a complex relationship with Hermione, is conflicted. He doesn't want to see her hurt because, deep down, he has feelings for her. He ends up using his Slytherin cunning to outwit the dark wizard and keep Hermione safe.