It wasn't an unusual night for Hermione. Eight hours had passed nearly in a flash. She often spent the night thinking instead of sleeping. The sun had been up for nearly an hour, but Hermione was still oblivious. Her body was hot and sweaty where her husband's hand clamped the comforter tight to her ribcage and her feet shivered where the blanket managed to ride up during the night. Hermione mused that her life mirrored this; simultaneously fiery hot and icy cold.
Her husband cared for her. Hermione knew he loved her, he had even told her so. However, Hermione often felt she was alone. When she needed comfort he told her she was weak. When she was strong and sure of herself, he commented at her arrogance. He faults, he said, rooted from her insecurities. Hermione was a parasite. He was the host.
Another hour passed and the bedroom doors slammed open. "Your Royal Majesties," a voice said, quietly. Groaning, Hermione sat up on her elbows. Her fears were conformed. Her Head of Staff was standing in the doorway.
"Elimine," she sighed.
"I beg My Lady's pardon. However, My Lord requested to be awoken –"
"I know, Elimine. I know." Hermione got out of bed and Elimine turned and motioned out the door. Several girls ran into the room, bowing to Hermione all the way. Stealing a glance towards the bed, Hermione almost snorted as she noticed her husband hadn't even flinched.
The serving girls removed Hermione's night gown as more came forward with the days dress. She raised and lowered her arms as needed and tried to stay awake. Hermione noticed Elimine's accusing stare. Hermione had promised her hours before she would get some sleep. "My Lady will excuse me. My Lady may indulge me to –"
"Your Lady will indulge no criticism from you. Be gone!" Hermione almost jumped at her husband's words. Apparently, he had seen Elimine's expression as well. The serving girls all jumped and ran from the room, leaving Hermione half dressed.
Hermione unconsciously stood a bit taller as her husband approached her. He wrapped her arms around her and kissed the top of her head. "What's bothering you, my queen?" he asked her.
"Nothing," Hermione replied.
Stepping back, he sneered at her. "I know there is something wrong and still you lie to me." He turned and stormed out the room. Hermione heard a sharp scream and then silence. She wondered with a lump in her throat if she would have to replace another serving girl.
"I know better than to lie to Lord Voldemort," she whispered. "I just didn't want to fight…"