One example could be a fanfic where Draco finds Hermione in the library during a thunderstorm. She's clearly scared, and Draco, instead of his usual snide self, sits beside her and starts a conversation about books to distract her. He might share some of his own fears related to storms from his childhood, making Hermione feel less alone.
Fear is a big one. Hermione is often portrayed as a strong character, but thunderstorms can bring out her vulnerability. Draco, on the other hand, might experience a sense of protectiveness that he didn't expect. He could also feel a bit of guilt for past actions towards Hermione as he tries to comfort her.
Another scenario might be that Hermione has a fight with her friends. Draco, who has grown to understand her better, takes her for a walk in the Hogwarts grounds. He tells her that friendships have their ups and downs. He shares stories of his own rocky relationships with his Slytherin mates, making her feel less alone.
One common theme is redemption. Draco often needs to redeem himself after his actions during the war, and Hermione's comfort is a step in that process. For example, in many stories, he has to face the consequences of his family's loyalty to Voldemort, and Hermione helps him see a different path.
The appeal lies in the contrast of their characters. Draco was once a bully to Hermione, so seeing him be the one to offer comfort creates an interesting dynamic. It's like seeing two opposites come together in a new way.
One popular 'hermione comforts draco fanfiction' is 'A Different Kind of Bond'. In this story, Hermione finds Draco in a moment of great distress after the war. She reaches out to him with kindness, seeing past their differences. Their relationship gradually evolves as she offers him the comfort and understanding he so desperately needs.
There might be a fanfic where Hermione is being bullied by some other students for being a Muggle - born. Draco, who has changed his views, steps in to comfort her. He tells her that her magic is just as strong and valid as anyone else's, and that he will make sure those bullies stop. In this story, they start to form an unlikely friendship that eventually turns into something more.
In the fanfic 'Comfort in the Storm', Hermione is terrified during a really bad thunderstorm at Hogwarts. Harry, being the good friend he is, goes to her dormitory (with permission of course) and stays with her. He tells her stories of his adventures with Ron to distract her from the storm, and it makes Hermione feel safe and comforted.
Well, it could be that Draco has a moment of realization at the Yule Ball. He notices Hermione is alone and sad, perhaps because Ron has been a jerk. Draco, having his own issues with expectations and family pressure, might feel a connection. So he approaches her and starts a conversation. He might say something like 'I know how it feels to be out of place sometimes.' This simple act of reaching out can be a form of comfort.
One example could be a story where Draco is feeling the pressure of his family's expectations and Hermione, seeing his vulnerability, offers a listening ear. She might share her own experiences of being under pressure in the wizarding world. Another could be set after the war, where Draco is dealing with the guilt and Hermione reaches out to him with kindness and understanding.