TITLE: Unicorns
AUTHORS: Ladyfun & TiAdoro914 Collaboration
RATING: While tame in the first chapters, it will deteriorate into a definite M.
PAIRING: Fleurmione
DISCLAIMERS: We own none of this, it all belongs to JK. It's her world, we just live in it. Good, non-profit fun. Story contains loads of femslash. If you don't like it, please don't read. If you do like, we hope you enjoy.
SUMMARY: Love and friendships forged, between Hermione, Narcissa and Gabrielle, brings someone back into Hermione's life that will change it forever. No murder, no Voldemort. Begins five years post-war, celebrating life after the light won, and the true courage it takes to live life, afterward. Fleurmione goodness!
A/N:
Ladyfun: Ye Gods, sorry this took so long (for us) anyway. While most everything is done, editing is a bitch! I feel I need to buy liquor for my past Betas. Its harder than it looks.
TiAdoro914: Would love to hear what you are all thinking of our little world we've created. Reviews prove faster posts, we promise...
Chapter 10: The Morning After
The morning sun peered through the windows of the room in which two very naked, very beautiful women lay, entangled in one another. The early morning sun roused the light-sleeping brunette.
Slowly Hermione began to wake, contemplating, Where am I again?
She realized the answer to her own question, by touch and by smell; Where she was, in fact, was wrapped around the incredibly sexy body of her witch.
Her mate.
Smiling, she slumped back down again, pressing her breasts against the soft and naked back of Fleur. The brunette's left arm was shoved under her pillow, with the right wrapped tightly around her Veela, their fingers entwined. As she became more aware of their positions, she realized Fleur's delectable ass was burrowed into her core; their legs blended together; their entire bodies entangled, under the sheet.
With a sigh of contentment, Hermione knew this is how she wanted to wake up every single day.
Every day.
For the rest of her life.
Wriggling her hand free from Fleur's, she began to lightly trace her fingers up and down Fleur's side. Deliberately, she slowly trailed downward, gently cupping Fleur's perfect behind. Merlin this woman is perfect, she smiled to herself. She trailed her fingers slowly back upwards, enjoying the feeling of Fleur's incredibly silky skin and traced around to Fleur's stomach. She felt like fucking heaven, to the Hogwart's professor, like concentrated perfection , and joy, and sexuality, to Hermione. The Veela was the softest thing she had ever felt, and laying together, quietly in the still of the morning, the sight of her naked form was... bliss.
She rolled over, looking out of the window in order to estimate what time it might be; however, her body immediately screamed in protest. They had gone rounds and rounds of rather aggressive love-making the evening prior, and her body felt every moment of it.
And yet... she still had not had enough of Fleur.
Now that they had finally bonded, she felt like Fleur was an extension of her. They were not two, but one. The sex between them? Bloody hell! Hermione grinned to herself, musing, So...this was what all the fuss was about! She finally got the fuss. And what a fuss it was! Because, Hermione realized, when one made love, had sex, and fucked-all at the same time - yes, a fuss should be indeed be made.
Hermione hovered over Fleur's still sleeping form. Gently, she pulled her, guiding the blonde onto her back, allowing Hermione to see the perfection of her mate, lying below her. Fleur made a small noise, tussling a bit; however, she stilled back into blissful sleep quickly. It was then, in that moment of stillness, that Hermione lowered her mouth to Fleur's pert and perfect breast.
She is so fucking hot, Gods! I need to taste her... thought Hermione.
Ever so gently, she began to lick around Fleur's pink nipple. Delicalitely tracing the edges, she circled twice, then encased Fleur's pink nipple with her mouth. She began to suck, slowly, while swirling her tongue. She had every intention of going slowly, wanting to allow Fleur to gently awake to the feelings coursing through her body. Slow, however, was proving difficult. Such intense desire started coursing through Hermione, stealing all rationale thought from her mind.
Continuing with a singular focus, Hermione's mouth began pulsing around Fleur's other breast, while her right hand made it's way down to Fleur's thighs. She slowly urged her legs apart.
Hermione tried to quiet the moans threatening to spill out of her mouth, as she discovered her Veela was wet...already aroused.
Fleur's hand flew to Hermione's head, as the blonde began to awake more fully. With a gasp, Fleur breathily moaned, "'ermione…ma belle! Ohhhh ...oui! Oui! Your mouth…please, ma belle...don't stop."
Stop... she would not. She would never. Hermione could not get enough of Fleur. Her mouth kept its focus, while her fingers began weaving their way through Fleur's lips, exploring, finding her core, with a pool of moisture quickly saturating the tips of her fingers. Emboldened, Hermione allowed her fingers to glide through Fleur's arousal, using the Veela's own lubrication to delve further through Fleur's silky folds.
As these new sensations coursed through Fleur, she cried out, "Merlin!" The Veela was breathing heavily, and finally growled, "Do. Not. Stop!"
Fleur released another gasp, and began cursing rapidly in French.
Fuck, thought Hermione. That sounded sexy!
Hermione singlemindedly maintained her focus through her haze of arousal. Using her pointer and middle finger, she entered Fleur. Her digits curving upward, Hermione began swirling her fingers in the warm core of her mate. Slowly she began to drag out, and thrust back in, building a pace that matched the sucking and twirling of her tongue as it savored Fleur's breast.
She continued thrusting in and out of her witch, relishing in the moans coming from Fleur's mouth. As Fleur's moans grew more frequent and louder, the brunette felt Fleur's core begin to tighten around her fingers. On Hermione's final few thrusts, her palm hit Fleur's clit, causing the blonde to release, gloriously, all over Hermione's hand.
"Merde, ma belle, zat was a way I'd like to wake up, for zee rest of our lives!" Fleur whispered. She composed her sated expression, focusing on the Englishwoman above her. Determined, Fleur summoned, "Venir ici, you gorgeous woman!"
She clutched at Hermione, pulling her fully flush, on top of her. Reaching upward to kiss her mate, the Veela paused for a moment, and smiled. Really smiled. "Iz zis for real, ma belle? Or iz zis a dream? Because I've never felt happier, more content, or more complete, ever! Not een my entire life! Please tell me zis iz real," she asked Hermione, earnestly.
With a smile that reached her eyes, Hermione responded carefully, "Beautiful one, this is real. And I feel the exact same way! I cannot believe how lucky we are, to be together. I am so hopelessly in love with you, Fleur; you make me weak in the knees, you fill me with desire, you just..." She swallowed, overwhelmed. "Fleur, I find you the most sexy, stunning, interesting…oh Fleur, I can't believe you are mine…" she responded. Looking off to the window, Hermione continued, "Maybe you are my prize for all the hell I went through in the war, perhaps? Are you my prize, Fleur? Because, really, you seem like it... I mean, look at you, you gorgeous creature!" she said gazing up and down Fleur's body with unabashed lust.
Then, she turned back to Fleur's eyes and giggled."I am sooooo Fleur-sexual…"
With that, Fleur grabbed Hermione's ass, and gave it a swat. "You cheeky witch, you! Kiss me, now!" The Frenchwoman's eyes turning dark, she hissed, "Zen, eet's my turn to ravish you…"
XOXOXOXOXOXO
As the morning crept on, the witches stayed in bed: talking, laughing, kissing, and enjoying every last second they had together. They were mated, and it felt indescribably wonderful.
"Ma belle. We should talk zome more, about zee conversation you 'ad wiz my Grand'mere, non? I realize she did zee job I was to do, and for zat I will forever regret, but be grateful to her. I mean, I often find myself turning to 'er when I need 'elp, but I never zought zat she would appear…Mon Dieu! Eets incredible!" Fleur shook her head in disbelief, but not taken aback one bit by the appearance of her beloved Grand'Mere. There were some advantages of growing up magical, including a willing suspension of disbelief whenever something improbable appeared, out of the blue. "Do you 'ave anyzing you would like to discuss? Any furzzer questions I need to answer?" Fleur asked gently.
"Love, I'm completely sure that we are mates, that is clear. No worries. And now I understand that we have, well, bonded. But what of the traditions associated with such a momentious occasion? Your Grand'mere spoke of a bonding ceremony? What does that mean and how does that effect what we have?" Hermione questioned.
Fleur blushed, realizing what a disservice she had indeed done to her mate, who not only did not grow up as a Veela, but did not even grow up as a magical witch!
Collecting her thoughts, Fleur began. "Well, ze Bonding Ceremony...well, eet iz like a wedding ceremony, but a tradition observed only by ze the Veela. Only Veela can be present and eets full of ancient magic. I zink it best for us to discuss with Maman, and maybe even zee Veela elders, to fully understand what will happen during zee ceremony," she explained.
"Alright, yes... I'd like to know everything," the always-curious Hermione responded. "So…we will be bonded for life then, Fleur?"
"If zat iz what you want, ma belle, zen yes. And it is absolutely what I want, if you will 'ave me…" she said carefully.
"Yes! Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes." Hermione exclaimed. Of course it's what she wanted. Of course!
They kissed, deeply, and held each other tightly for quite some time before Fleur knew she could not keep Hermione in bed too much longer. For without tea soon, her witch, well…she just knew.
"Ma belle, could I interest you in zome tea and breakfast, out on zee terrace? I realize we could stay 'ere, naked, in bed, all day... which I would like too do," she smiled with a lazy grin. "...But zome food may do us good for when we return." She grinned and winked.
Hermione nodded, grudgingly.
Continuing on, Fleur rationalized, "Plus, I'd like to see my Maman, 'Ermione. Well, I'd very much like 'er too see you, actually. Last night waz such a whirlwind and eets time you met my Maman, properly. Would zat be alright?"
"While I'd positively love to tie you to the bed posts and have my way with you all day," grinned Hermione, suddenly capable of saying things she never dreamed voicing out loud before, "I'd love some tea, and I'd love to properly meet your Maman."
With a peck to Hermione's lips, Fleur smiled and hopped up to open the windows. With the sun streaming in, Hermione could, for the first time, truly appreciate Fleur's naked form. This woman was perfection to her, and how lucky she felt in that moment was not lost on the brunette.
The witches took some time to shower, together, in order to get clean. After casting several spells drying their hair, making their bed and covering up some of the more visible marks that adored their bodies, they finally dressed. Once satisified, they headed downstairs. At this point, Hermione realized she could not find her "blasted bag", resorting to wearing some of Fleur's clothes as a result. Before leaving the room, Fleur grabbed Hermione one last time, pressing her body to Hermione's, fully together. The Veela leaned in, stealing a smoldering kiss.
"I love you, ma belle," she whispered, looking deeply into Hermione's brown eyes.
XOXOXOXOXO
Sitting on the balcony, the witches came across a rather sullen looking Gabrielle, wearing all black, the hood of her sweatshirt up over her head and large sunglasses covering her eyes.
"Bonjour petite sœur! Qu'est-ce que vous a l'air si sombre aujourd'hui?" Fleur asked, attempting to uncover what had Gaby looking so down.
"Soeur! You must be kidding me. I look magnifique! I am zee model of perfection!" Then, grousing as she continued, Gaby muttered, "Et aussi...zut alors... I can't find any bloody 'angover potions! Zis ees bullshit! What kind of wizarding 'ousehold, post gala, runs out of zee 'angover potion?" Gaby inquired, looking quite pissed.
Hermione raised her eyebrows, at Gaby's empassioned reasoning. Fleur and Hermione could not help themselves, they chuckled as they pulled up two chairs, dragging them right next to each other so they did not have to stop touching. While Fleur began to make tea for herself and Hermione, Hermione questioned Gaby.
"I swear, we packed some in our bag, but I can't find it anywhere Gabs! Did you have it in your room?"
"Non, GG," she replied tersely. "And don't ask! Fuck eet to 'ell, I don't 'ave zee blasted, laid comme un pou, bag, eizzer, so don't ask!"
Fleur swatted her hungover sister, good-naturidly. "Be nice to my meuf!" Attempting to be the voice of reason, Fleur suggested they all have a cuppa and some pastry first and then hopefully Maman or Cissy would join them and they could locate the bag later. She was sure Maman would know where the handover potions were stashed.
"Alors," Gaby started, "you 'ave bonded zen, my loves? Ze glow surrounding you two iz zo strong, I never zought I'd see such a zing…itz pretty beautiful on you two, actually. Although…" she paused, "Eetz a little too bright for my tastes, zis morning."
The witches smiled, touched by Gaby's sweet words, even if she looked rather…ridiculous.
Gaby pushed her sunglasses lower on the bridge of her nose, staring at Fleur with bloodshot eyes over the top of them. "I vil say, Fleur, 'ermione does 'ave one 'ell of a sexy….inseam."
Hermione spit out her water, mid drink.
Gaby waggled her eyebrows. "I swore zat if you were any later to see ball, Fleur dear, I waz going to take a taste of zat delicious cherry pie, comprendez-vous? Waz eet az tasty az eet looked?"
Fleur rolled up her napkin and was now just openly swatting Gaby, on her forehead, to her squeaking indignations of "merde!" and "tut!" But then, the older Veela leaned over, whispering, "So…eet was even better, Gabrielle…"
"Soir la melieure!"
Hermione scowled, taking in the little tete a tet . "Yoo-hoo! Right here, still. I am actually, in fact, still sitting adjacent to you two perverts!"
Gaby hissed, "Does she talky-talk a lot, in ze bed?"
A lavicious grin slid across her big sister's face. "Well, I wouldn't call eet talking, exactly…" Gaby squealed, with delight, pinching Fleur. "….but she does communicate, oui." Fleur concluded.
A well-aimed ice cube hit Fleur, richocheting off her forehead, hitting Gaby directly in the center of her eyes. "Damn," Hermione mused. "Maybe I should rethink Quidditch, after all. My aim is better than I thought!"
The two Veela made a noise that was awfully similar to hissing. Hermione did something very non-Hermione-esque, in that she made a pouty lower lip and looked at Fleur. Immediately Fleur acquiesced, grabbing her mate's hand again, flanking her.
"Je suis desolee, my pretty lady….forgive me, for ze teasing?" She rubbed her nose against Hermione's, and large grins slid onto both faces.
"Vomi!" Squealed Gaby, as she spelled up the sun shade, miming retching gestures.
"Arretez-vous, Gabrielle!" Protested Fleur. "My 'ermione likes ze sun, for ze morning meal."
"Non." Replied Gaby, petulantly. "Ze sun does not like moi, for ze morning meal." She grumbled, as she pushed her sunglasses back on her face.
Hermione placed a calming hand on Fleur's forearm. "Fleur, its fine. Really. Gaby is obviously…not in her top form."
A small huff was heard at the table. "GG, I am always in my top form!" contradicted Gaby. "Merely...well, just intolerant of ze unnecessary bright light at ze moment. Between ze obnoxious sun and you two blowing fools, I feel like I am being interrogated!"
Hermione chuckled, but Fleur merely scowled. As it became increasing clear breakfast would not be a relaxing nor restorative affair this morning, as the two sisters continued to bicker playfully, Hermione suggested they go in search of a restorative draught.
"Worst case scenario," suggested Hermione, "we can go wake up Narcissa's arse and have her brew a fresh one!"
"C'est un bonne idea, 'ermione! I 'ave 'ad about all I can take of ze antics of my suffering sister!" Proclaimed Fleur, dramatically. She waved her hand in the air, like a drum major, and demanded the other two follow her.
"We will go find Maman…or Cissy…or a bloody 'ouse elf, who can stop ze madness! I would like to bask in the glow of my gloriously sexy mate and all I can zink about iz your misery tu petite crabe! "
Before Gaby could escalate the commentary, Hermione calmly suggested, "how about we start with your mother, ladies? I'm sure a woman as resourceful as Apollene has multiple healing draughts tucked away."
As Hermione and Fleur had yet to stop touching, at least some part of their body to the other, and had no intention of stopping or being away from one another for a second, their hands entangled as they stood, ready to go on a mission to calm the littlest blonde.
"Merde! Maintenant!" ordered Fleur.
The three witches, one grumbling, the other two chuckling, began their search as they made their way through the Delacour estate. They started their search in the library where they knew their Maman liked to have her morning tea, but it was empty. Next they searched the living rooms, and even the indoor pool thinking maybe their Maman wanted a quick swim before the day began. Both were also... empty.
Eventually they made their way to the master wing of the estate and found their Maman's door still closed. Without a second thought, the sisters barged in, finding the entry to Apollene's suite littered with clothing.
Unusual, for sure...
As they continued on, Fleur called out to her Maman, "Maman! Your littlest one iz being quite insupportable, zis morning!"
What the three witches came upon next was something they were quite sure they would never be able to unsee. In the middle of Apollene's enormous four-poster king size bed, was their Maman... naked, on her back, her head thrown back in ecstasy. Her legs spread wde, her breasts heaving, as her body shook. On top of their Maman, was a beautiful blonde…WOMAN…presently straddling her legs! The blonde's hand was buried deep inside Apollene's center, her generous breasts pendulously hanging above Apollene, with sweat-glistened skin, as she labored, thrusting hard. In and out of... Apollene's center. Apollene moaned, wantonily, clearly relishing every thrust. As she did, the blonde threw her golden hair over her shoulder, revealing her identity to the intruders.
Narcissa!
They had walked in on Narcissa... making furious, unrepentant, and frenetic love... to their mother! The sisters, both dumbfounded and shocked into utter silence, saying nothing. Their blue eyes were wide with surprise, and their bodies were unable to move or make a sound. All they could do was stand, immobilized, simply staring at the enthusiastic love-making happening less than 10 feet away from them!
It's not like Gaby haden't happened upon her mother in various states of undress before; but never with a woman! And not like this – so obviously covered in sex, dripping with evidence of her lust. And never with her beloved Narcissa.
Hermione, also in a considerable state of shocked at the scene before them, blurted out, rather loudly and ineloquently, "Ummmmm…"
It had been clear the women's focus had been solely on each other and they had not noticed the entrance of the three younger witches. After Hermione's inelegant blurted-out loud noise, both heads snapped up and to their right. A look of shock crossed Apollene's face as her mouth fell.
Narcissa took one look at the woman beneath her and back to the ladies, stating confidently, "Good morning loves, if you would please excuse us, we will be happy to come join you on the balcony in a short while. As you can see, we are currently…indisposed."
Their mouths still hung open in apparant lockjaw.
"Fous le camp!" Shouted Apollene, more definitively. "Out! Aller maintenant plus petits!"
XOXOXOXOXO
The witches said nothing as they slowly made their way back down to the balcony, a word not spoken between them. They sat in silence for a considerable amount of time.
Gaby, now thankfully downing a healing draught provided by a house elf, stated rather surely, "Well, I guess she iz a cactus no more zen, non?"
Hermione chuckled, as Fleur shot a look between the two.
Gaby frowned. "Well, 'ow pathetic iz zis? I'm zee only one in zee family that did not get any last night, and I am clearly ze 'ottest of zee bunch! Bullshit, again!"
Hermione smiled. "I seem to recall a clutch full of contraband, Gabs. Whatever happened with the five pairs of panties, mate?" Hermione questioned.
Gabrielle scoffed. "Eet does not count as zee sex, eef I did not get off, 'Ermione! Non?"
The two professors exchanged a laugh, while Fleur looked out to the manor yard, quietly reflective, and holding Hermione's hand. She took a drink of her latte, and absentmindedly traced circles on the back of Hermione's hand, saying nothing. Gaby and Hermione compared notes on their observations from the previous evening, skirting the elephant in the room. Finally, the three were joined by the two previously indisposed blondes, looking very put together. As they glided across the balcony, the three younger women couldn't help but notice the two were a truly majestic, practically regal, pair.
Both women seemed in their prime, with matching platinum hair, upswept in a bun and French twist, respectively. Although Narcissca was the slightly curvier of the pair, they both had undeniably strong, lithe bodies appearing far younger than their fifty-something years. One would never guess the travails both had endured in their lives, as they seemed untouched and nearly flawless. Put together as such, it seemed obvious, really; nonetheless, the two Delacour girls seemed shell-shocked. Hermione frowned. She couldn't understand why the two daughters were being so priggish. After all, they constantly reminded her they were sexual beings, and both clearly had an affinity for the ladies, which they attributed to their Veela nature. She racked her brain as to this conundrum, confused. She reasoned it was most likely attributable to the fact Apollene's bed partner was Narcissa Black, their Narcissa, most of all. A trace rosy flush across their cheeks were the only telltale signs that they had been engaged in such vigorous athletic activities prior to breakfast; otherwise, they looked impeccable.
"Good morning, ladies." Narcissa said, calmly, although Hermione noticed a flash of concern in her eyes as she attempted to project perfection. She leaned down and gave Hermione a brief kiss on the cheek and a smile.
"Bonjoir, mes amis." Greeted Apollene, who turned and was giving rapid fire orders for breakfast to the head elf. Pierre, the family's longstanding head elf, was nodding, furiously. Gaby and Hermione both noticed he was not making eye contact, surmising he must have been an unwitting recipient of the same visual they had all shared earlier, as well.
Apollene placed a light hand on Narcissa forearm, to get her attention. "S'il vous plait, Cissa, would you like one sugar, or two, in your coffee zis morning?" The two exchanged a knowing look.
Narcissa offered, "Hmmm. Surprise me."
Apollene let out an evil grin, and shot off a few more orders in rapid fire French to the house elf. "Zank you, Pierre. Zat will be all, ca suffit."
The younger witches continued to just stare in silence, as they watched Apollene pull out a chair for Narcissa and immediately sat next to her, holding her hand. Once they were seated, Apollene turned to Hermione.
"Bonjour 'Ermione, I am zorry we did not have a chance to speak properly last night, but I am thrilled to see zat you and my Fleur appear to have worked through your...challenges?"
Hermione paused for a moment and then smiled, "Bonjour Madame Delacour. Thank you for having me to your home, the ball last night was quite magnificent. Thank you for helping Fleur and I come back together last night, and yes, we are," with this, she paused, and turned to Fleur, smiling from ear to ear, and then back again to Apollene, "we are so very happy. Fleur makes me happier than I ever thought was possible! And while, quite honestly, I am still hurt by how I came to learn I was her mate, I understand her, and love her unconditionally Madame," she finished quietly.
With that, Apollene stood and glided over to Hermione. Hermione rose from her chair, slowly releasing Fleur's hand to meet Apollene, who pulled her into a tight hug. "Welcome to the family belle petite."
Embraced so warmly by her mate's Maman was such a powerful feeling. She felt safe and loved, sitting here on the balcony with her witch and her family. Overcome, a single tear slid down Hermione's face. Glancing down at Fleur, Hermione noticed, she too, was overcome in this moment, tears brimming in her eyes as well.
"Alright, alright you two! Arretez-vous! I can only take zo much in one day!" huffed the black clad little blonde, with a smile on her face. "Itz time to get down to bizness. What zee utter 'ell iz going on, Maman? Cissy? Zomeone better start explaining, tout suite!" she demanded, with a glare in the direction of the two older blondes.
"Gabrielle," Narcissa remarked sternly, "a lady does not kiss and tell."
Gaby grumpfed. "Good zing zere are no ladies 'ere, zen."
Apollene kissed Hermione again, and looked Gaby in the eye. "Gabrielle Delacour, your manners, dear. Zis day should be about your sister, and 'ermione. Cissa and I…"
"Cissa?" Fleur spoke up, a wry smile on her face. Turning and giving Narcissa a sidelong wink, Fleur teased, "Eet's 'Cissa,' nowadays?"
Narcissa looked back at Fleur, and deadpanned, "Only if we have sex, darling."
Fleur chocked on her coffee, laughing. Gaby's mouth dropped open.
Narcissa blithely replied, "And quite frankly, one Delacour is all this lady can handle! So, Fleur, for now, 'Narcissa' or 'Cissy' is still fine. And for you, Professeor," she said, eyeing Gabrielle, "you and I may have to go back to 'Madame Black', altogether, especially if you threaten to measure my inseam, any time soon!" she added, with a chuckle.
Gaby threw a teaspoon at Narcissa, which she agily ducked. "Shut up, Cissy." Gaby pouted.
"Oh, Gaby, you know I love you, dear."
"And I love you too, Cissy. But do not expect me to call you 'Mommy', in zis lifetime!" She gave a mocking glare towards her Maman.
Apollene, still standing near the bemused Hermione, her arm securely around her shoulders, whispered, "Mon Dieu! Are zey alwayz like zis?"
"Always, Apollene. Always! Try being the neutral peacemaker... It makes poor Headmistress McGonagall positively batty!" Bemused, the transfiguration professor added, "I will say, however, that Gaby's aim is getting better! She almost actually hit Cissy, that time."
Apollene gave an uncharacteristic snort of laughter. Finally, Pierre returned, with the additional delicacies the lady of the manor had requested, and Apollene made her way back over to her Cissa. Apollene sat next to her, slyly taking her hand again, under the table. Everyone resumed their respective places, and ate in mostly silence. Occasional grumbles were heard from the youngest Delacour, but breakfast turned out to be a quiet affair, for the most part. After everyone's growling stomach was respectively calmed, Apollene spoke.
"My dears, we 'ave an important thing to discuss-"
"-Like why Madame Black was performing moutz to moutz recessitation on your ozzer lips, down below, par exemple?" Gaby interjected, unexpectidely.
Gaby ducked the flying teaspoon thrown back at her, by Narcissa.
Apollene kept her face poised. "No, zat wazn't what I meant, but I will say…. she is quite the skilled healer, I must admit. Excellent mouth-to-mouth, by my estimations..." Apollene grinned wickedly, to Gaby's puking gestures and Fleur's salacious grinning. Only Hermione and Narcissa looked remotely embarrassed, both blushing, and exchanging looks.
These Delacour women certainly had no issues talking quite openly about sex, both Narcissa and Hermione mused.
Apollene cleared her throat, and continued. "No, dears, what I meant waz…scheduling 'ermione and Fleur's bonding ceremony!"
Large smiles blossomed on the three Veela's faces, and Hermione and Narcissa once again exchanged looks.
Apollene continued. "I waz zinking, perhaps over ze Noël break, oui? We can perform ze bonding at ze Veela sacred grounds on ze 31st, peut-etre, zen 'ave a small wedding ceremony at ze estate on ze first of ze year?"
"Why small?" Gaby interjected. "I mean, 'ermione 'as like, twenty billion friends, az does Fleur! Eet takes 'ours to walk anywhere wiz zem, shopping...all ze 'allos and Ca-va's! Il prend une éternité!"
Narcissa and Apollene both pursed their lips, simultaneously. At nearly the same time, they both answered, "It's a second wedding." They regarded each other, grinning like lovesick teenagers.
"Merde!" Gaby grumbled.
Narcissa looked at Fleur and Hermione, gently. "It wouldn't be socially appropriate, girls, to have a big formal to do, for a 'second' wedding, unfortunately." She patted Hermione's wrist, in sympathy. "Even though it's your first."
Apollene added quietly, "besides, 'alf of ze Golden Girl's friends are Weasleys, oui? Malheureusement, I zink Molly Weasley iz more zan 'appy to be done wiz ze Delacours, quite frankly, despite ze fact Bill is a lovely man, and doez not 'arbor such feelings, 'imself." Apollene had a trace of sadness in her voice.
Hermione grimaced, the reminder that her mate belonged to someone else, once upon a time. As if sensing the distress, Fleur leaned even closer to Hermione, and rubbed her thigh, tenderly. Giving her mate a wide and generous smile, Fleur interjected wistfully, "I would love to 'ave a ceremony, at Delacour Pond! Eet 'as always been my favorite... I zink eet would be so romantic!" She looked at Hermione, with an expression of childlike wonderment. "What do you zink, my love?"
The look she gave Hermione was so earnest, and so devoted, even Gaby herself couldn't find it to mock Fleur.
Suddenly all the 'Bill jealousy' evaporated from her body, and Hermione was left with nothing but a warm feeling of happiness. She returned Fleur's affectionate gaze, offering quietly, "I would love that, Fleur, especially if it's special, to you." She leaned in for a soft kiss.
The table was silent for a long moment, the women reflecting on the momentous occasion.
It was, of course, Gabrielle who brought them out of their silent revere, by proclaiming, "Sans blauge! Zis iz terrible! Absoutelyhorrible!"
"What is, Gaby?" Asked Hermione, concerned.
The youngest blonde shook her head, finally cradling her head in both hands, groaning. "Ugh! I cannot be BOTZ of your Maid of Honors, at ze same time! Mon Dieu! " She sighed, melodramatically. Looking up at Hermione and Fleur, Gaby said, "I guess you two will 'ave to fight it out, over who gets me, zen..."
She gave Fleur a cheeky grin, which Fleur returned, while laughing.
"Terriblement malheureux, puis!"Fleur said, still laughing. Squinting her eyes at Hermione, Fleur joked, "To ze deatz, Naturellement! Oui?"
Hermione looked between Gaby and Fleur, speechless.
Gaby shrugged, nonchalantly. "Eet iz up to you, ma soeur. But... eef you are dead, eet will present challenges to getting married, and ze nuptials, one would zink."
"Good point, mon bebe!"
XOXOXOXOXOXOX
Following their breakfast on the patio, with the notable ongoing refusal of their Maman and Cissy to verbally acknowledge what was going on, Fleur decided to invite Hermione to talk a walk down by the Delacour Pond. She wanted to show her the locale she had in mind, for their wedding. Plus, she was exhausted from her mother's and Narcissa's skill at verbally escaping and evading, anyway.
Before they began their walk down to the lake, she asked Pierre to pack them some light snacks and refreshments, so they could wander for as long as they desired. Fleur was excited to have "alone time" with Hermione, at her family's Estate.
Walking hand in hand, Fleur directed Hermione down the steps of the patio, onto the lush lawn that was surrounded on all sides by a landscape of beautiful trees. At several points, Hermione noted the seeming intention of the tree's paths, to deliberately redirect individuals in various directions, around the Estate grounds.
It was a beautiful and sunny morning, slightly brisk, but not overly cold or uncomfortable; Hermione could not help but look around, in wonderment on such a beautiful day.
"This place...your home, Fleur, wow... its so stunning! I mean, based on knowing you for quite some time, I did realize that you came from," Hermione measured her words, "...well, an established family; but I had no idea that this was the type of place that you grew up in!" explained Hermione.
"Eets 'ome ma belle, I've known nozing else." Fleur replied, simply. "I love eet 'ere, I've so many 'appy memories of being young: running around wiz Gaby on zee lawn, family breakfasts on zee patio when eet was warm enough, learning 'ow to swim in zee family pool, and," she gestured in the direction of Delacour Pond, "playing in zee lake in zee summers! Eet was a wonderful childhood. I did know I waz so very lucky, ma chou, to grow up... comme ca." Fleur explained as they kept walking.
They made their way down a beautiful winding path, through a burst of trees, and finally landing at an opening, which overlooked the lake. Hermione continued to sneak glances at her beautiful Fleur, and smiling to herself.
It was stunning.
The sun shone brightly overhead, reflecting on the water. The air was warm and peaceful. Delacour Pond was not enormous, like the one at Hogwarts, but it was rather large enough to require at least 45 minutes in order to navigate around the entire perimeter.
On the right side from where Fleur had stopped them, stood a small dock leading out into the body of the lake. It looked like the perfect place for one to jump off into the water.
On the left side of the dock, was a beautiful beach stretch around like a horseshoe; it was enteranced by an opening with rocks fashioning a sort of rock-like cliff, seemingly protecting the perimeter. While it was not exactly an overlook, it was raised slightly off the water, and had a lovely platform shelf.
"Here, my belle," Fleur said, meaningfully, pointing to the natural platform. "Zis iz where I can imagine us... being married."
She looked at Hermione, the Veela's heart, pounding. "Zat iz," she added quickly, "eef eet meets your expectations." Fleur's eyes shone brightly, as she looked at her mate, in anticipation.
"Fleur, it's…" Hermione was speechless, taking the landscape in. "My word...it's perfect," was her genuine response.
With a giggle and a smile that could light up the world, Fleur dragged Hermione down to the edge of the water. As they approached the shore, Fleur spun Hermione to her, pulling her flush against her body. She then leaned down, deliberately, kissing her witch.
It was a slow kiss, one that started out with a mere press of lips, gently gracing Hermione's.
However, as the Englishwoman's arms snaked their way around the other's waist, forcing their contact to become infinetly closer, Fleur gasped. The feeling of their bodies so tightly knit together, caused the Veela's body to overheat, instantly. Fleur opened her mouth, as an invitation for Hermione's tongue. The kiss deepened, their tongues dancing together. Teeth nibbled on each others lips, hands began roaming each other's backs, hips, faces, finally tangling up, in each other's hair.
As the simple kiss, that evolved into a much longer expression of their passionate devotion, unintentionally, finally ended, they both leaned back and smiled.
At this, Fleur untangled herself from Hermione. Fleur stood in front of Hermione, smiling. The Englishwoman's looked back, overwhelmed by how beautiful the blonde actually was, in this moment. With a graceful movement, Fleur slowly sank to one knee. Hermione gasped, shocked.
"Mon tresor...'ermione." Fleur began, her voice shaking. "I realize zat I did zis... zo out of order, ma belle. Je suis desolee, 'ermione...Je sais... zee first zing zat I should 'ave done, waz zis, ma belle: I should 'ave told you, properly, zat you are my mate. And what zat means in zee Veela culture, iz zat we, you and I, are destined for one anozer." She looked at Hermione so earnestly, it almost rendered her in tears.
Fleur continued. "A power much greater zan ours, put us in zis world, wiz ze intention of us spending our lives togezer... as one. Az ze Veela mate pair. When I realized zat eet was you, ma belle; you, 'ermione, were my Veela mate, " her voice trailed off, and she had to steady the emotions in her heart, before continuing. The memory of her realization was overwhelming to the young Veela. She finally collected herself, and willed her body not to cry...yet. She grasped Hermione's hands, clutching them tightly.
"Ze feelings of such intense peace and happiness settled in on me, 'ermione, zat waz unlike anyzing I 'ave ever known before! You, ma belle, are ze bravest person I know!" Fleur's eyes were passionate. "You are intelligent in a way that astounds me; you are curious, and funny, and you 'ave a smile zat when it lights up all the way to your eyes, could outshine the sun, I zink!"
Hermione blushed, but remained quiet, listening in rapt attention.
"I find you sexy in a way zat iz... indescribable. I can't get enough of you, 'Ermione. But wiz the peace zat came from knowing zat eet was you who was ma mate, zat peace was coupled wiz... fear." Fleur's voice trembled, slightly. "Fear, zat you would not feel zee same way, about me."
Fleur dropped Hermione's hands, running them through her own platinum mane. She sighed, and looked towards the water. It was then a solitary tear rolled down her cheek.
Quietly, the Veela explained, "Ma belle, I am destined to love you, wiz everyzing in me... for zee remainder of our lives. Zee way I feel about you iz zo powerful, zo consuming." Fleur clutched her hands to her chest, balling them. "You, my dearest 'ermione, you are my light, and my joy, and my passion! Wizout you, zere iz no me."
She took a deep breath, and removed a delicate piece of jewlrey from her brocade pocket. She looked up at her witch, eyes full of devotion, and spoke, more firmly, this time. "And so, I made zis," She held up Hermione's ring, much to Hermione's suprise. Fleur grinned. "Zis ring for you, ma belle, waz made...wiz the essence of myself, to show you and the world, zat you are mine, 'ermione. Eet also symbolizes zat I am yours, az well."
While the witches had been kissing, unnoticed by Hermione, the ring that had been surrounding her ring finger had been removed with a little charm by Fleur. Hermione couldn't believe she had been so distracted! Fleur was...well, amazing.
The devoted Veela spoke again. "Zo, I present to you, zis ring. I ask you, from ze bottom of my 'eart: Mademoiselle 'ermione Jean Granger, will you please complete our Veela bonding, and become mine for life? Will you marry me, 'ermione?" Fleur asked her the question, with tears now openly trailing down the blonde's face.
As Hermione looked down at Fleur, on one knee, marveling at the face of the woman she loved, she couldn't help but appreciate the complete love and total devotion, encapsulated in the blue eyes, waiting expectantly.
This was more than Hermione had ever dreamed! In reality, she was not a dreamer, when it came to love; the pratical Gryffindor would never have described herself as a romantic in the past. She had never been someone who had spent time pondering what it would be like when someone proposed to her, provided that had ever happened!
But this...
If she could have scripted a moment like what she would have wanted, it would have been exactly this. While it certainly would have been preferable for it to occur prior to last evening's affairs, it did not take away from the fact that now, the woman she loved with her whole being, had just proposed to her so eloquently. It made, frankly, her unintentional dreams come true.
For the first time in her full life, Hermione Granger became a dreamer.
Eyes shining, the brunette soundly responded with the word every Veela waits their whole life, unconsciously, to hear.
"Yes."
Fleur buried her face in her hands, sobbing with relief. Hermione knelt down with her, gently removeing her hands from her face, and waited for the blue eyes to finally meet hers. "Yes, Fleur... I want to marry you, more than anything I've even done in my entire life!"
With that, the Gryffindor in Hermione roared, and she grabbed Fleur, and pulled them both to stand. Boldly, Hermione looked at the slightly disraught blonde in front of her. Smiling, Hermione cocked her head, then leaned in, grabbing Fleur. Before the blonde could say a word, Hermione kissed her, with all the passion in her body. Hermione felt her own tears of joy start to fall, but she refused to break the kiss. Finally, at this point, with them both crying, they pulled away. Looking at each other, they laughed, breaking into grins, then launched into each other's arms.
The moment was perfection.
Fleur slipped the ring back on Hermione's finger, and all was forgiven from before. All that mattered was how they moved forward, together. From the small bag Fleur had carried with her down to the lake that held the goodies packed by Pierre, she used her wand to create a blanket for the two witches to sit upon. Once the two were comfortable on their blanket, Fleur began unpacking their goodies, marveling at Pierre's bounty.
"Thank you Fleur." Hermione said, gently. "Thank you for... this. For proposing properly, and so romantically, too. On the very spot where we are too be married, no less! It could not have been more perfect."
Fleur blushed, relieved.
Hermione mused thoughtfully, "Although, I think I would have been just as happy to propose to you, my love!"
Fleur shook her head. "Well, zere are certain zings you will 'ave to learn about zee Veela, ma belle, and one iz zat ze proposal 'ad to come from me. Eet always destined to come from me, given zat you, ze mate, 'olds such power over my life, I zink. But you were unaware of zat custom, Je sais." Fleur smiled, gently. "But zee fact that you would 'ave zought to do so...well, zat makes my 'eart soar!"
Fleur offered her a cup of steaming hot coffee from the canister that had been packed for them. Hermione took it gratefully, and Fleur watched, highly amused, as Hermione had what could only be described as...a moment. With her coffee.
Laughing, Fleur said, "But 'ermione, zere is somezing elze zat I need to apologize for..."
"Okay?" Hermione responded, barley taking the time to remove her lips from her cup. She cradled it as though it were a lifeline.
Fleur chuckled again, mentally noting she needed to buy them an expresso machiene, tout suite. "Well, I regret somezing else zat I am desperate to make up for, if you will let me. I know from our talks zat you and your parents 'ave a good, but somewhat distant relationship, oui?"
Hermione nodded.
"But... zey are still your parents, 'ermione, and I've not met zem yet!" Fleur shook her head. "I should 'ave at least met zem, and informed zem of my intentions, before I proposed! So, eef you would be agreeable, zen, can I meet your parents, soon... 'Ermione?"
Hermione put down her cup. "Fleur! Oh yes, that would be...delightful, really!" Her expression darkened, slightly. "Fleur.. I don't want you to be upset, though, if we do."
Fleur looked confused.
Hermione explained, gently, also deciding to resume her relationship with the cup. After another sip, she offered, "While I do ...absolutely ... want you to meet my parents...uh," Hermione paused. "After all, I do want them to know the woman who captured my heart, and with whom I plan to spend my life... I am not upset that you did not meet them before we bonded." She looked at the confused Veela. "I love them Fleur," Hermione explained. "I do. They are my parents. But ... my family is different than yours."
Hermione took another drink, thinking about how to explain this to the family-obsessed Veela, who had grown up in such a different world than hers.
Hermione thoughtfully explained, "While we-my parents, and I- love each other, we are not an affectionate family, really. We are not that close, and they are not the overtly loving type of parents. I don't question their love, Fleur. But the dynamic we have is nothing like the one you possess with your family, Fleur. I just want to manage your expectations, accordingly."
The brunette took another drink, frowning that she had emptied the cup. Fleur, smiling, passed over hers, which Hermione took, sheepishly. Fleur mentally noted she needed to get that expresso maker... perhaps before she returned to London, even.
"I have always wondered if my parents even really wanted a child…not in a bad way; I never felt unloved, Fleur. But that feeling of intense devotion that comes with family... a family like yours, for example...well, I've never felt it before. The closest thing I felt to a family, one that I envisioned: a loving, boisterous , would fight-to-the-death-for-each-other type of family, was my relationship with the Weasley's. And well...I mean, bloody hell, you of all people appreciate how consuming and wonderful that family can be!"
Fleur nodded, in agreement.
Hermione chuckled. "Blimey, when they take you in, they make you one of theirs, that's for sure!" Hermione paused, thinking. She spoke, after a moment, in measured words. "While I will forever be grateful to the Weasley's, allowing me to participate, up close and personal, the epitome of what I'd like my family, our family, to be like, Fleur...they never were truly mine."
Fleur looked suprised. "But zey love you, 'ermione!" She insisted. "Passionately!"
Hermione nodded in acknowledgement. "And I love them, too, Fleur. But.. it was not until today that I realized that I finally felt like I completely belonged, in a family. Your family, Fleur."
"Our family, 'ermione."
The brunette smiled. "Thank you, Fleur. Yes. Today, on the balcony... being with you, Gaby, your Maman, and now Cissy...well, that was the closest I've felt to a family. I fit perfectly inside somewhere, for the first time in my life."
With that Hermione paused, letting the stunning admission sink in with Fleur.
"Fleur, I have tried, over and over again throughout my life, to make my little muggle family be more than what it is. But I can't. It's just not who we are." Hermione looked very matter of fact. "So, this was a very long winded way to explain, while I absolutely want you to meet my parents, Fleur...it would never have been expected that you asked them before we got here today. I promise. Do not blame yourself for anything."
The blonde sat in silence for a moment, absorbing all that Hermione had explained to her. The joy she felt in giving Hermione a "sense of family" was profound, especially for the family-oriented Veela. Fleur struggled to find words to respond, struggling to understand how family could be so indifferent to one another.
She vowed never to let Hermione feel unimportant...ever, in a family. Tenatively, Fleur said simply, "'Ermione, you are my 'ome now, and I am yours. And I am so grateful zat you love my family, as much as zey love you. Ozzerwize," Fleur said, with a twinkle in her eye, "...eet would be very awkward wiz zem fawning over you constantly, and angsting over every decision you make 'encefortz, in zeir overbearing way, oui?"
They both laughed. Fleur concluded, "Because you do fit, 'ermione. You finally took your spot, reserved for only you, in your destined family...and you fit perfectly, and always will." She punctuated the conversation with another kiss.
Fleur then diverted, fiddling with their snacks, allowing Hermione the moment to collect herself, unobserved.
"However," the auror continued, "I'm glad you still want me to meet your parents, anyway. Because I would like to meet zem and zank them, really...for making you, 'ermione! My perfect mate."
"Oh yes Fleur, absolutely," she said with a smile.
They ate in relative silence simply enjoying the view and each other. Hermione came out of her thoughts, voicing aloud, "Um, Fleur? Have you...I mean, well...what the bloody hell do you think is going on between your Maman and Narcissa?"
Fleur nearly spit out her croissant, laughing.
Hermione continued, eyes wide. "Because... that was quite a scene we walked in on!" Hermione stated, her face bright red.
Fleur reached over, touching her nose. "You are zoooo cute, ma belle! Especially when your adorable face turns bright red! Like a une tomate," Fleur laughed. "Well, to answer your question, hmmm. I am not entirely sure. While we Veela are more zan comfortable wiz both men and women as lovers, I am unaware of a time zat my Maman has ever been wiz a woman! Eet suprised me az much as you, 'ermione!" Fleur shook her head. "And zeir actions at breakfast toward one another? Well, I zink...eet pointed toward somezing more. But I guess we shall wait for zem to come out wiz eet properly when zey are ready." Fleur suggested, with a shrug not unlike Gaby's.
Hermione looked like she might burst.
"I don't want to get my hopes up Fleur, but I mean... how amazing would it be, if your Maman... and my 'surrogate Maman' found love together?" Hermione said wistfully.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Meanwhile, back on the balcony, the three remaining blondes sat, enjoying their coffee a little longer, following Fleur and Hermione's departure.
Things had tensed up, slightly, after the two mates retired, at the breakfast table. Gaby no longer had her personal filter of her big sister to act as a buffer of sorts, between the two Delacours. Despite Gaby's frequent efforts, her Maman was resolute in not talking about the elephant in the room. This frustrated the youngest Delacour to no end, and was evolving into more and more of a problem for Gabrielle.
This was her mother.
And this was her Narcissa, as well.
The two people she was closest to in the world at this moment, her best mates, Hermione and Narcissa...they had both suddenly become entangled with the two most important people in her other world, her Maman and Fleur! With a sudden awareness, the realization left Gaby feeling like an outsider in her own life.
Narcissa observed the change in demeanor of the younger witch, but was trying to tread lightly between Apollene and Gabrielle. She herself was a bit uncomfortable at being between the two as clearly the tension had built up to a tipping point.
"Umm, ladies, I must excuse myself." Narcissa offered, smoothly. "I promised Draco that I would speak with him following the ball; he was interested in hearing how things went. I feel I need to to just check in, with my son." She looked towards Apollene. "Lene, would it be alright if I used the Floo in your room, to connect with him, now?"
"Cissa, what'z mine iz yours, of course! Bien sur! I'll come up to join you in a bit, oui?" Apollene said, with a smile.
Narcissa nodded, and stood up. Placing her napkin on the table, she leaned over, and kissed both Apolline's cheeks in a French bis. Gaby gratefully smiled when she walked over and did the same to her, giving her a warm hug, before finally leaving the table to head upstairs.
Apollene's smile dropped, momentairly. Her gaze fixed on her youngest, the head of the Clan asked, "Now, my darling Gabrielle... would you like to tell your Maman what 'as your feathers so ruffled zis morning, ma petite drame queen?
One would not call her tone gentle, but there was an undercurrent of love, underneath.
Gaby sighed, dramatically. "I'm not sure , Maman... I am not sure I am ready to talk about my feeling right now, wiz you," she replied tersely, as she stood to leave.
"Gabrielle, stop this right this instant!"
Gaby stopped, frozen. She turned back, to face her mother, her expression revealing nothing.
The powerful Veela matriarch regarded her youngest, sizing her up. "Itz clear you are dérangé my dearest Gabrielle. You know zat 'olding eet in, will do you no good! Avec elle! " Narrowing her eyes, she asked more gently, "Does zis 'ave to do with... Fleur and Hermione's bonding, ma petite?"
"Non. I am thrilled for zee two of them, Maman. C'est vrai! All I've ever wanted, waz for ma Fleur to find 'er 'appiness." Gaby's face had relaxed, talking about her beloved big sister. "I alwayz zought 'er relationship wiz William waz zo forced. Not zat he waz a bad man," she quickly added, "...but eet waz clear, to me, at least, zat zeirs was a match of timing, not of passion."
"Moi aussi, Gabrielle."
"Really? Zen why didn't you stop-"
Apollene waived her off. "Gaby, in all ze years you 'ave known 'er...'ave you ever been able to stop Fleur when she iz set on somezing? Even eef itz a bad decision?"
Gaby chuckled. "Good point, Maman. She's like a mule, zat one."
"Oui." Her Maman acknowledged.
"Good zing, zen, she found ze ozzer enormous mule! 'Ermione iz perfect for her." Gaby's face became unguarded, morphing into true delight. "Eet waz unexpected, bien sûr, but eet iz clear zose two mules... zey are mates. And maybe zis meanz I will see Fleur more zan I 'ave in zee past?" Gaby explained honestly, suddenly sounding like a little sister.
"Alright zen," Apollene acknowledged. "Zen, mais alors, what iz eet, ma darling?" Apollene tried again, in an effort to get her youngest to speak.
"Non." Gaby said, abruptly, shaking her head. Putting her sunglasses back on, she said, "Maman, not now. I am going to go for a swim... I need to clear my head."
With that, the youngest Delacour bent down, giving her Maman a kiss on the cheek, and walked away. Apolline watched the retreating figure of her youngest daughter, now finding herself alone on the balcony, deep in thought.
TBC