Summary: Following a nasty divorce from Draco, Hermione, now an Auror tries to move on and keep her job. But what she doesn't expect is to end up finding comfort from a man who under normal circumstances wouldn't hesitate to kill her.
Switching Allegiance.
…
Auror Hermione Malfoy sat in the parker of Malfoy Manor, trying to stem the tears. Tonight and possibly the next few nights were going to be long. She couldn't believe what had happened earlier that day. She tried not to think of the anger and pain she had seen in her husband Draco Malfoy's eyes. She'd been staring at the official Ministry letter in her hand, fear, uncertainty and dread crashing through her. Draco had come out of his study, in full Pureblood dress. His black Pureblood cloak with its gleaming platinum Pureblood Crest, over his black suit trousers, white shirt and black silk tie, with the Pureblood symbol stitched in to the silk. His platinum tie pin also had the Pureblood symbol engraved in to the metal. His black Italian leather dress shoes were gleaming with polish. Hermione had seen his gleaming platinum Pureblood crest and stepped back very quickly, fear and horror at what it now meant taking hold of her. Before she knew what had come over her, all her anger, fear and uncertainty of what she was facing had burst out and she was yelling at him at the top of her voice.
Looking back now, it made her wince. How the hell could she have said all that? She was allowed to tell him her missions, so why hadn't she? Why had she lost her cool? She remembered yelling that he, as a Pureblood still hated Muggleborns and secretly enjoyed taunting them with his Crest. All the time, her heart was yelling for her to stop, because she wanted exactly the opposite from him, to be in his arms. Feel the love and affection from a Pureblood's heart while they were in dress. The only Purebloods she had seen that way wanted to kill her. Even Draco hadn't won it in her view. She remembered saying with scorn that she felt so inferior to him when he was with his Pureblood associates. That at these times she felt like a filthy Mud blood, and pushed back in his mind. She'd seen his eyes darken with anger and pain. Maybe even hatred?
"Can't let go, huh?" His voice was quiet. She met his cold gaze, her own eyes trying not to give in to tears, but she was close.
"If that's what you think I'd do," he said quietly, his grey eyes molten fire. "To anyone, let alone my own wife, then you don't know your supposed husband at all, Hermione. I suggest a separation is in order, don't you? I think you need to think about where your heart truly lies. Do you still hate me deep inside? Even now? Quite honestly, I don't like you very much at all right now. I can't believe you could be so selfish and hurtful. I have never, nor would I ever, have set out to deliberately hurt you. Don't worry, Hermione, you may never see me in Pureblood dress again. You may never see me again. That goes too far. In fact, the only part of me you may see again, is a set of divorce papers. I may give you the option to talk to me and explain yourself, but since I haven't decided yet. I will contact you when I have. But don't bother trying to contact me through our rings, as I will not be wearing mine. Also, I happen to know there was something you really wanted from me in a Muggle suit and tie. I was willing to find out what this was and give it to you. Well, you can forget it. Whatever it was, it's not happening now, ever. Even if we stay married, you've lost that for yourself. You may stay here at the moment, but you will not see me, as I do not wish to see you right now. Do not stay in hotels, it's money we don't need to spend. If you wish to stay with Blaze and Astoria, that is also your choice. I will not remove you from the wards at this time. No matter how I feel about you at the moment, I will not leave you with nowhere to go. But we are at the very least, separated. Divorce papers are about a second from my thoughts. Do not be at all surprised if you receive them. It would take a hell of a lot for me to even consider speaking to you right now. As for forgiving you, I'd say it's almost impossible."
Before she could even open her mouth to reply, though with no idea what she was going to say, he was gone. Now, she stared at the letter she'd received a couple of hours ago, which thanks to her stupid fear, may have wrecked her marriage. Love? Or duty? It looked like she'd lost her husband, putting him after duty.
Auror Malfoy, I'm sorry to write to you about this, but as you know, you are one of our best Aurors and we need you for this mission. One of the most influential members of the EPL, (English Pureblood League) is in Azkaban, but needs Auror guard. He's a very dangerous man and there is only so much the Dementors can do. As a result, we need you in Azkaban, overnight tonight. The EPL state Muggleborns should not use the same bars, restaurants, etc as Purebloods, should not have the same jobs, basically, they are below them and nothing better than slaves. They hate Muggleborn women, and want to pass a law to use them as sex slaves. His name is Mr. Graham Alderson. He needs top security. If you have any further questions, you can of course ask me before you leave. Please come to my office at 20:00 to be briefed and prepare. Thank you,
Rufus Scrimgeour. Head of the Auror Office.
At 19:30, she stood. She walked quickly to the Master bedroom which she was sure she would never sleep in again and grabbed her Auror robes, badge and protection vest. This looked just like police body armour, but was covered in shield charms too. It had pouches where she kept her cuffs, keys, wand and radio. She'd asked for one when she started and Scrimgeour had agreed. Her work was Magical, but she wanted to keep part of it Muggle, as before she'd known she was a witch, she'd always dreamed as a child of being a police officer. Suddenly, her radio crackled and Scrimgeour's voice came through the speaker. She had an earpiece which she had to wear when in public, but as Draco was her trusted contact, she didn't have too when alone with him. She was also allowed to disclose her missions to him, if she needed to. He was under a Wizard's oath he'd taken when she took the job. She remembered all too well the day he'd taken the oath. If he abused it and disclosed anything to anyone else, he could face Azkaban. She'd stared at him, tears in her eyes, knowing he really loved and cared for her and was serious about their relationship. That night, he'd told her so, by kneeling on one knee and slipping a platinum diamond encrusted engagement ring on her finger when she'd sobbed "Yes, yes!"
"Auror Malfoy? I need you in my office in 15, please."
She took a deep breath, glancing at her radio, her heart thumping. Why had she taken this job? She'd made a mistake... Suddenly, she felt her wedding ring shudder slightly and knew why. Her fear. But as Draco wasn't wearing his, he would not have felt it. She began to walk towards the front doors, holding her head up and trying to stay calm.
Hers and Draco's wedding rings had a lot of charms installed in to them. They could track each other, unless one chose to hide their location. They could also talk to each other through their rings, as well as cause a message to appear on the platinum of the others ring. If one person's ring became ice cold, the other had either died, or cheated. Warm, they were very close to each other. If it shuddered or tingled, one was feeling a very strong emotion. Finally, the most expensive in the Wizarding World, was the danger charm. If one was in life or death danger, the other's ring would connect to theirs and they would be able to see and hear what was going on. If abused, the abuser could face Azkaban. There was an incantation, or it would take affect automatically if the fear was strong enough and the danger obvious. They could also call for Aurors and Healers on their rings. Again, if abused, it could mean Azkaban, or the charm never being installed on a ring belonging to a member of that couple again.
She took a deep breath, holding back tears.
"Acknowledged and received, Sir," she whispered in to her radio. If she wasn't wearing her earpiece and Scrimgeour said something which was overheard, she was responsible and would get the blame, which could mean serious trouble.
Suddenly, she knew one thing. She couldn't go without speaking to Draco first. She'd never done so. Never. Just in case. She knew the dangers, as did he. She walked down to his study and knocked. There was no response. She couldn't go to Malfoy Inc, she didn't dare. Plus, she didn't have time. She would just have to hope she returned... With a deep breath, she apporated to Scrimgeour's office.
When she was on duty, none of the charms on her ring worked. Draco couldn't track her, tell if she was in danger, or anything. He only could after a mission was over. This was because she was under the care of the Ministry when on duty. The only charm the Ministry hadn't stopped, was the warming when close, or the tingling of strong emotion. They'd left them with that reassurance, which Hermione had been grateful for. It worked the other way around, almost. Which was when Draco was dealing with an urgent or serious law case for one of his clients, she could use the charms on their rings, Draco had insisted, as he was the boss. As the owner of Malfoy Inc, he was a highly experienced and very good Lawyer. He was very expensive to hire, but had hardly ever lost a case. If she tried to use the tracking or calling, the ring would warn her he was at work with a client, so could not talk freely, but had insisted she used it, no matter what, in an emergency. She remembered vividly the night she'd really needed him, but couldn't reach him, as he was dealing with a client who was about to be sent to Azkaban that night. She'd had a very nasty Mission, but had made herself wait. Draco's client obviously needed him and there was no way she would be that selfish. When he'd eventually got home, she'd drank almost a whole whisky and her face was white as marble. He'd held her all night, as she'd cried and cried, unable to vanish the image of the 3 Muggle children as the death eaters killed them. She'd tried to save them, but hadn't been able to. She'd blamed herself for that. She remembered the way Draco had gently kissed her, over and over again, as she poured out her pain to him. He'd asked her over and over again, his voice gentle, why she hadn't called him, work be damned. She couldn't answer. Eventually, she'd called a Healer on her ring, who knocked her out for the night, as Draco held her tightly in his arms. Now, she entered Scrimgeour's office as he opened the door. His face was grim.
"Come in," he said quietly. She did so.
"You will simply have to stand outside his cell," Scrimgeour said softly. "You will not have to make any contact, through words or actions. He won't even know you're there. The Dementors have been taught to recognise your face and not touch you. Please go and prepare and you'll be met by the boat in 10 minutes at the shore, unless you have any questions?"
"Just one, sir. Why me? I'm Muggleborn, the very women he hates."
"Because you are a very good Auror and this will help with your training, facing this big a challenge. You do this, you can do almost anything. Good luck, Auror Malfoy. You'll be safe, tonight."
As Draco was a ruthless, brilliant, but very expensive and experienced Lawyer working often for very rich Clients, he'd had to enter the prison on many occasions. Every time he'd done so, she'd felt the jolt of panic, fear, longing for his safe return. Every time he'd gone, he'd come to her with a gentle kiss and told her where he was going. This time, her first time here, she'd been unable to return the gesture. She blinked, hard. Without a word, managing a small nod, she stood and almost ran out of the door. She couldn't help it. She couldn't hold it back, she had to.
She went in to the female bathrooms and just broke down. God, she'd never wanted to tell Draco she loved him more than she did now. She knew how dangerous Azkaban was as an Auror. A few minutes later, she felt gentle arms around her. She looked up, her face red. It was Auror Abbey Harding, another close friend.
"I'm on this Azkaban trip," Harding murmured. "On another mission, though. You want me to tell Scrimgeour you can't do it? Babe, what's happened?"
Hermione quickly told her the story. She'd been planning to tell Abbey outside of work, the 2 were so close.
"It's a personal welfare issue," Harding soothed. "I'm serious, I'll tell him."
"No," Hermione shook her head. "I've never told Draco this," she breathed. "But ever since we fell in love, if one of those Dementors gets too close, I hear Draco's voice. Telling me we're getting divorced and I'm a filthy Mud blood. Or a Ministry Official, telling me Draco's been killed or something and given our current separation, the former has never felt so real and I may hear just that. God, I want to tell him I love him, just once, but I I can't..." She broke down further.
"Shh," Abbey held her tighter. "Neither will happen, I'm sure of it."
"Please," Hermione begged. "Don't tell Scrimgeour, I... I've got to do this, or I won't pass. Please."
Abbey sighed, but nodded.
Soon, they were on the boat, being taken to the prison. She'd been given an unlimited flask of hot coffee, which did not cool, also an unlimited food basket the dementors would not touch. Before she knew it, she was going through a stringent security check, verifying she was an Auror, why she was here, etc. Her food basket was also checked.
"Alright," an Auror grunted. "This way, Auror Malfoy."
She was led in to the dark passages. She could see nothing and could hear the drip of water. She was already freezing. Without a word or smile, the Auror lit his wand. A few minutes later, she was standing outside a heavily barred and locked door.
"You're on from now until 7," the Auror muttered. "8 hours. You'll be checked on often, any problems, send up red sparks and someone will be there straight away. The dementors know not to touch you, or your food, so you're safe from them." She was passed a thick blanket. "You are able to read a book, but your ears need to be open. He may speak or shout in his sleep. Anything you think we should know, alert us immediately. When your shift is over, you will be checked over by a Healer and your personal welfare will also be checked. You will then be off duty for 24 hours. Please relax, you're safe. Good shift, Auror Malfoy." He was gone. Every now and then, a Dementor would swish past her. She knew she was safe from them, but it made her shiver and she could not block out the snatches of Draco's soft voice saying the words she dreaded. Suddenly, at 3AM, 2 huge guards appeared, with 2 dementors. Hermione drew back automatically.
"Alderson," one of the guards snapped. "On your feet." The other opened the cell door. Hermione drew in breath, unable to help it. Alderson's eyes were black and cold as ice. Colder than even the temperature she was in now.
"Auror," a guard murmured. "You Muggleborn? Then step back."
She shook her head, but didn't meet Alderson's eyes, as he was securely chained and the dementors grabbed his arms.
"Your Lawyers here," a guard snapped at him. "Move, scum."
Hermione followed at a distance, at the guards nod. They entered a secure consultation room. As Alderson was chained to a secure chair, Hermione glanced through the heavy security glass.
Her heart seemed to stop. Her husband was in the Lawyer's Boothe. In spite of everything, she felt love and respect rush in to her heart for her husband. In spite of his personal opinions, he'd represent who played him the highest amount. She was certain he hated this man.
"Auror," one of the guards said, as the dementors flanked her. "The Dementors are actually there to protect you. Please follow these orders from your boss. Open the glass grill." Hermione looked hesitantly at her radio.
"Well done, Auror Malfoy," Scrimgeour's voice spoke in her earpiece. You checked first. Correct, please open the grill. Be warned, it's heavy, so if you need help, ask."
She stepped forward, raising the heavy bunch of keys. Slowly, she turned the correct one, as the grill opened. She grabbed it and slid it backwards. It was indeed heavy. Then, a guard slid Elderdom's chair towards the grill.
"Auror Malfoy," Scrimgeour's voice spoke in her ear. "I want you behind that glass with them. They can't refuse, as he's trying to kill all Muggleborns. Your Lawyer can not challenge you. I must remind you that you are under oath not to repeat anything you hear, or face Azkaban yourself. The Dementors are right there and they are protecting you."
She took a deep breath and stepped behind the glass in to a small booth between Alderson and Draco. Neither man knew she was there, or could see her.
"Come on Mr. Malfoy," Alderson said without preamble. "You know damn well my good man I face a long sentence. You are my Lawyer, I have faith in you good Sir, can you not negotiate?"
"No Mr. Alderson, I cannot. If you are being arrested by the Ministry, there is only so much I can do. I am able to represent you in Azkaban, but I can't stop your arrest."
"I wish you'd tell me whether you agree with our noble aims," Elderdom's voice was cold. "You are too professional, sir."
"I am a Lawyer," Draco said quietly. "What I personally think makes no difference. You payed me, I work."
"So are you saying I should admit everything, confess?" Alderson spoke quietly, but his voice was full of anger.
"That," Draco said softly. "Is not a choice I can make for you. I have just stated I will represent you during your term in Azkaban, and I will do so."
"We hate Mud blood scum," Alderson snarled. "We want them dead. All of them."
"That may be so," Draco said softly. "But right now Mr. Alderson, we have to convince them to let you out of here and to be perfectly honest with you, I can't see any way how we can achieve this. Your views are well known, you are disliked by most of society.
"I'm trusting you, damn fucking Lawyer," Alderson snarled. "You'd better not let me down. You're costing me enough." Draco nodded once.
"Our 50 other members know," he said softly. "They will continue our noble work. Merlin knows we want Mud bloods dead. They're taking up our best jobs, which only Purebloods should hold. Pureblood women are ok, well, to fuck, but Mud bloods, my God they are a blemish on our society."
"You are able to stay in this consultation room with me," Draco continued, as if he hadn't heard. "For as long as you wish, right up until you are charged, if you require it."
"Won't you want to leave?" Alderson sneered.
"No, Sir, I am your Lawyer, so you are in command."
"You are my Lawyer," Alderson snarled. "That's not good enough. Listen man, I want some action!"
"I have just told you," Draco said softly. "I will represent you. You may have to stay here in Azkaban for a while, but I won't leave you here for long."
"Not good enough, Mr. Malfoy," Alderson snarled. "You hear me, man? That's not good enough! I have Mud bloods to deal with and I can't in Azkaban, even with my 50 other members!"
"So what are you asking from me, exactly?" Draco's voice was calm.
Alderson stood, touching the thick glass between him and Draco. The Lawyer remained calm and didn't move. Typical Draco, Hermione thought. He never panics. So calm, cold and composed. God, I love him so...
"I want you to get me out of here, tonight! Damn you man, what do you think I was asking for? Coffee? I have a beautiful Mistress awaiting my, ah, attention. It won't happen in here now, will it?"
"Sorry, Mr. Alderson, I won't be able to get you out tonight, you have to wait to be charged. But I can stay with you while this happens. There is no time limit for a Lawyer to remain."
"Then what?" Alderson snarled, his eyes on Draco's.
"Depending on the charge and sentence, I will know then what action to take."
"That's so crap!" Alderson stepped right to the glass, staring straight in to Draco's grey eyes. "I'll know what action when, we'll know when... Are you deaf, Malfoy? I want action, now!" Hermione stepped forward, pressing her wand to Elderdom's chest, pushing him back.
"Ha," Alderson laughed softly. "Don't you trust me, Mr. M? There's an Auror in here protecting you. How cute."
"That is not my decision, Sir. That is the Ministry's. I cannot refuse this."
"Well, if you don't take action right now, no Auror will be able to do a damn thing to help you! You've been my Lawyer for ages, Malfoy, and what the hell have you done? You're a Pureblood, a good man, worthy to represent a man such as myself. Yet, you haven't done a damn thing, despite getting good money from me."
He stepped forward further, his hand touching the heavy steel security grill. Hermione stepped forward a little, causing her handcuffs and chains to clink a soft warning.
"Yeah, right," Alderson sneered, his cold black eyes glinting. "Chain me up then, Ministry slave, afraid I'll hurt my Lawyer? Scared of what I could do with no wand? Malfoy, talk to this Auror. Get them to back off! As if I could reach you!"
"The Ministry have policy, Mr. Alderson. I can't interfere with this. Take your seat, and you won't have to deal with it."
Alderson glared at Draco, and didn't move. She stepped forward, so Alderson saw her. Draco however could not, due to the glass.
"A female Auror," he said softly. "Just brilliant. Come on then bitch, do your worst. Oh, Mr. Malfoy," he sneered at Draco. "This is so cute. A female Auror to protect you, oh dear, the Ministry must really hate you."
That did it. No way was she going to let this sleezy Pureblood bastard poke fun at her, or sneer at her husband. In one move, she was behind the glass, and had grabbed Alderson. Before he could blink, she had him in secure chains. She dragged him across the room to his seat. She was powered by pure anger and hatred. She knew later on she'd regret it. Alderson was strong. As well as gorgeous.
The thought flashed through her mind and she pushed it away immediately. He was tall, still managing to keep his jet black hair slicked back. His eyes were black and cold as ice. Just as cold as her husband's grey ones. But one thought would not leave her mind, no matter how hard she f
tried. If Draco finds out I'm here, he's going to kill me. She cuffed his arms to his sides against the seat, stepping back. She was gasping for breath. No matter how hard she tried to push it away, she could not stop thinking, I'm a Muggleborn, trapped between 2 very powerful Purebloods between 2 sheets of damn thick glass. God, I feel like a bug under a microscope. A few minutes later to her relief, the heavy door opened and 2 huge Aurors entered.
"Alderson," one snapped. "Listen up. You are charged with the following offences. Attempting to breach Muggleborn rights, lies to achieve your aims, trying to bring in new Laws without consultation of our trained legal advisors and the countless rapes of Muggleborn women." Hermione felt her legs go weak with fear. She was deeply thankful he was behind bars right now.
Alderson sneered. "They deserved it," he said softly. "Pureblood women. Only good to fuck, hard."
"You have time to consult with your Lawyer," the other one said. "Decide your appeal. We can't however put a time limit on this, as I'm sure he's told you. Then, you're back to your cell. The Auror guarding you will attract our attention when you are done."
Eventually, Alderson and Draco were done, discussing legal matters Hermione had no clue on. She sent up blue sparks and the 2 male Aurors returned. Alderson was heavily chained.
"Remember what I said," Alderson looked back at his Lawyer. "I'm paying you good money Sir, do your job. I expect to be out of here in 72 hours."
"Auror," one of the guards said to her. "Please release his Lawyer and escort him out to the apparition point, then please return to duty." Hermione looked at her radio, stepping back out of earshot.
"Auror Malfoy," Scrimgeour's voice said. "Are you ok?"
"Why didn't you tell me," Hermione was close to tears. "Why didn't you tell me, Sir? Mr. Elderdom's Lawyer is my husband!"
"It's part of your challenge to remain professional under pressure. Essential for an Auror, Auror Malfoy."
"Does," her voice cracked. "Does Draco know?"
"No, Auror Malfoy. Or he may have warned you."
Hermione glared at her radio.
"It may all be about staying professional Sir," she said quietly. "But just so you know, my husband and I are currently going through marriage difficulties and when he sees me in a moment, guarding the head of the EPL, he's going to kill me. I've got to release him from the glass, in about 10 seconds. Talk about professional Sir, I may have lost my husband for my job. I wouldn't have objected, if you'd just told him first..."
For the first time ever, she disconnected on her boss. Her heart thumping too fast, she walked to the glass. Draco was standing beside the exit door, waiting for her to open it. His thick briefcase was under his arm and his Lawyer's badge was gleaming on his chest, over his Malfoy Inc robes and tie, concealing his dress trousers and white shirt. She took a deep breath and pulled out the heavy bunch of keys. Draco, she thought. I'm so sorry... She opened the door. Their eyes met.
Immediately, she saw his darken to pure fire. She had never seen him so angry. Immediately, she turned heading through the corridors to the secure gates. How she got through the rest of the shift, she wasn't sure. But soon, it was 7AM and she was being let out by a guard, having handed her keys back in. She disapporated in to the Manor as quietly as she could. She'd just made to head for the stairs, when Draco's study door opened and before she could move, she was grabbed and pulled through, the doors closing and locking. Instinctively, she grabbed for her wand, pure fear in control.
"Shows how much you care about me," he shouted, shoving her back against the wall. She stared at him in total shock. She had never heard him shout. Not once.
His eyes were so dark, she was shivering in fear. "Yeah go on Hermione, get yourself killed, or raped. Are you such a fucking stupid bitch or what? He hates you. You hear me, woman? He's a member of the EPL. English, Pureblood, League! You heard his charges, what are you trying to do? Get yourself killed? Shows what you think of our marriage doesn't it. I think you've just signed your Divorce papers. Don't you dare, I said don't you dare, come near me tonight. I don't want to do something I'll regret; I don't want you to end up in St. Mungo's because I lost my temper and used my wand against you." She stared at him, in total shock.
She had never seen Draco lose his temper, ever. His voice was usually so soft and calm. To see him show emotion is powerful made her eyes sting with tears. Could it possibly, actually be fear? She'd just stepped to the door, when he grabbed her by her body armour, pulling her to the wall, and slamming her against it. She tried to struggle, tried to speak. She never got the chance.
Because she felt his lips crash in to hers. Her mind flashed back. Twice in their relationship, Draco and she had had sex from anger and hatred. God it had felt good. No love, no romance. She felt herself fall against his shoulder, strengthless, as he continued to kiss her, his kisses harsh and urgent. Before she'd thought about it, she had grabbed his tie with one hand and his collar with the other. His arms closed around her tightly, as he held her against him. His lips moved against hers, as he lifted her in to his arms. She was gasping for breath. Next second, he was holding her against the study wall.
"Draco," she gasped, unable to stop herself. "Please..."
His cold gaze moved to her face, his sneer still showing his fury. He moved his hand again and her clothes vanished. She couldn't hold back a gasp. He moved his hand for a third time and his trousers etc were gone. He was still in his Malfoy Inc shirt and tie. She understood the point. He was furious. He continued to kiss her with no gentleness at all, as his hand moved to her right nipple. With surprising tenderness, he started to move it between his fingers, just as she loved. She gasped against his mouth, putting one hand out convulsively to keep her balance. She felt his other arm which was still holding her tighten and she was pulled securely against his shoulder. Draco's hand released her breast and moved to her very centre, his fingers finding their goal, as they slid in to her. He continued to kiss her, hard. But even in his anger, she felt tears in her eyes at how gently he was touching her.
"Shit," she gasped in pleasure. "Don't stop, Draco please..."
She grabbed his collar again as he continued to touch her, stroking that bundle of nerves which drove her crazy. She opened her mouth then and their tongues met at last. She couldn't keep back a sound of sexual bliss. She looked in to his eyes then and felt herself grow if that were possible, even more turned on. His face was still a cold sneer, but his eyes were pure fire and they were fixed on hers. Right now, she was his. Whatever happened later and there was nothing she could do about it. She didn't want to do a damn thing about it. She continued to kiss him passionately, her tongue dancing against his. Softly, she gently bit his lower lip. Then, she felt her orgasm hit and she cried out his name in pure passion.
She felt him hold her tighter, securely pushing her against the wall. She felt no pain, just unbelievable pleasure. She shifted against him, as he pushed forward and entered her. During their relationship, he'd always satisfied her first and she felt a lump in her throat at the knowledge that even though he was furious with her and very probably hated and was leaving her, he'd still done the same, for the last time. As a result, when he entered her, she was ready. She raised her arm behind her for balance, as her husband made love to her, hard, rough, commanding. He was in total control. His movements as harsh as his kisses, but she felt no pain. She turned against him, as he was still inside her, so he was behind her. She felt his arms tighten still further; the material of his dress shirt soft against her naked body. She grasped his arm automatically, as he pounded in to her. She felt her head press in to his shoulder, feeling his shirt against her neck. Then, her second orgasm hit, just as she felt his.
Gasping for breath, she had turned before she'd thought about it and grabbed his collar with one hand and his tie with the other, as hard as she could, she was trembling, as she tried to catch her breath. "Please..." She pleaded with him. "Don't push me away yet..."
He was still glaring at her. She struggled to find her feet, as she picked up her body armour. "I'm so sorry," she whispered trying to stop her tears, but they fell regardless. "Scrimgeour knew you were his Lawyer, so set me to do it, it was part of my training, professional under pressure. I," she swallowed. "I told him you didn't love me all too much right now and that he should have warned you or me. He said no, as you may have warned me. Ha," she laughed sadly. "Not tonight you wouldn't. I can ask Scrimgeour to speak to you if you want proof. I swear to you Draco, I had no idea..."
Without a word, he unlocked the door, gesturing to it. She understood. She knew that hadn't been makeup sex, it'd been him showing her he still cared in the only way he knew, while furious with her for her words. She knew her marriage was still in danger. She nodded immediately, heading to the door. She wouldn't even think of disobeying him. She'd said love and obey in her Muggle wedding vows, and this she took very seriously. She'd just got out, hearing the door lock again, when Scrimgeour radioed her for her debrief. She felt anger sweep over her for her boss, but disapporated to the Ministry.
…
When she reached his office, she couldn't meet her boss's eyes.
"Draco's furious," she said softly, swallowing back tears. "I mean, furious. I'm lucky he didn't curse me. He warned me to keep away from him in case he did. Sir, why did you set me of all people to do that?"
"I told you at the time," Scrimgeour said. "Training. If I'd told Mr. Malfoy, he would have warned you. Professional under pressure. Auror Malfoy, are you telling me he would have been any less angry if your marriage had been fine?"
"No," she said in exasperation. "But we could have at least talked about it afterwards. Considering the reasons we're separated in the first place, is that I said things I should not have done to a Pureblood."
"Well, Auror Malfoy, you need to keep your home life out of work. That's not my fault you said things you should not and you ended up guarding the EPL head. That's work, that's life. Mr. Malfoy is a very good Lawyer and the chances are very high you may meet again in a working capacity. Are you going to be this upset every time?"
"No, Sir," she gritted her teeth. "Not unless we're divorced, which we may very well be after tonight!"
"I am sorry to be so personal," Scrimgeour said softly. "But is your husband in control of your whole marriage?"
"Oh come on," Hermione threw her hands up. "Of course not! He'd never do that! But I, Muggleborn, said honour and obey when we married! It may not mean much to you Sir, but I take it very seriously indeed!" There was a pause.
"You will guard him one more time, with Mr. Malfoy as his Lawyer. Fail to remain professional to me this time, I'm sorry Auror Malfoy, you'll be finished. I'm only giving you this chance because I hold you in such high regard. I can only hope you have fixed your marriage by then. Do you understand?" She took a deep breath and nodded.
"Go home. You're off duty for 24 hours. Be back here at 08:00 on Tuesday."
She left. But she didn't go home. She went to her cubicle and lay down on the bed inside. Aurors had a small sleeping quarters in the Ministry, for long assignments or emergencies. It felt as though she'd only just dropped off to sleep, when Scrimgeour's voice rang through the Ministry, amplified.
"Any available and healthy Aurors, I need you, now. Even if you are not supposed to be on duty for 24 hours, if you feel able, I need you."
Hermione leapt to her feet, as cubicle doors flew open. She ran to Scrimgeour's office with Harding, Jackson and Jenkinson, among others.
"Aurors," he said urgently. "Listen to me. I need you in action now. The EPL have launched an attack against the arrest of Mr. Alderson, their head. I need you to protect and save life."
Hermione looked at him, horror crashing through her. She didn't need to ask which premises it was.
"Auror Malfoy," Scrimgeour said, his voice gentle for the first time. "You are the one Auror who..."
"Forget it," she snarled. "I have friends as well as a husband in there, Sir. You want me to remain professional under pressure? Here's my chance!"
Scrimgeour didn't get the chance to say another word, as Hermione zipped up her body armour and her colleagues cast their protection enchantments. A second later, they'd disapporated.
They ran through the smashed glass doors of Malfoy Inc; the sign was lying on the marble floor. Jamie was still behind the desk, but in chains and her clothes had been stripped away. Hermione understood. She was a Muggleborn woman, they were going to rape her. Over Hermione's dead body.
She ran over to her friend's side. Jamie looked scared, but determined. Hermione felt love sweep over her for her close friend. Jamie and she met out of work a lot.
"J," she murmured. "It's me. Can you stand?"
"Auror Malfoy," Jamie whispered. There was blood coming from her mouth. Hermione gently held her and helped her up.
"It's alright," she said gently. "Nothing's going to happen to you. Jackson, can I have some help here please?"
Stuart ran over to them with a medical pack and his wand, gently taking Jamie's arm. She tried to look away, as she was naked, but Hermione knew why. She'd done that on purpose. Jamie seriously fancied the Pureblood, but was too scared to tell him.
"EPL," Jamie breathed to Jackson. "They, they're upstairs..."
"Shh," Jackson soothed. "Let's worry about you for the moment. My colleagues are on it."
"Please," Jamie pleaded. "Don't let Mr. Malfoy see me like this..."
"Shh," Jackson murmured again. "I won't, I promise. Come on Jamie, I'll get you some clothes and food."
Hermione couldn't help the soft smile. If Jackson was too thick to realise what was right in front of him, maybe she'd give him a gentle push.
Meanwhile, the rest of the Aurors had ran up to the upper floors and were engaged in combat with the EPL. There were 5 of them. Hermione waited in reception, her heart pounding. She'd asked permission from Scrimgeour to do this and he'd agreed. This would show she was ready. Never mind who he was, she was doing this because of the facts. Sure enough, a few seconds later, she heard the crack of apparition, as Draco Malfoy apporated outside the smashed doors and headed through them at a run. Hermione remained very still, then, just as he reached the stairs, she moved. She grabbed him and pushed him to the wall, her wand on his chest. He looked up and their eyes met.
"Draco Malfoy," Hermione's voice was steady. "This is a Ministry of Magic order. You take one more step forward or try to pass me, I will cuff you. You are the one they are after, you're the one they want, as you are representing their boss. This is your only warning." Auror Harding sprinted down the stairs.
"Auror Malfoy," she shouted. "3 injured, 2 dead. All EPL!" Hermione nodded, not moving.
All the EPL members who were still alive, were in heavy chains. The early turn shift Aurors appeared to back them up. Then, every Auror heard Scrimgeour's voice.
"Aurors, go home. Well done. We'll debrief tomorrow. Go and sleep."
Before Hermione could move, Draco had grabbed her, his eyes black with anger. "Uh oh," Harding breathed. Then, he was disappearing them in to darkness. They landed in his study and this time; Draco's wand was steady against her chest. Without thinking, she grabbed hers.
"Will you," Draco's voice was so soft, it was worse than his shout. "Stop, protecting me?"
"Listen up you Pureblood stuck up aristocrat," Hermione yelled, her own anger coming out now. "Will you just accept that someone loves you? What, something against your culture, huh?"
Then, something Astoria had once told her came in to her head. "The woman doesn't protect the man, no matter what. In a Pureblood marriage, the man protects her. She just doesn't protect him. It goes against Pureblood culture in every sense."
"What is it, Draco Malfoy?" Her voice was shaking. "You doubt my abilities? Don't think a Mud blood makes a good Auror against the EPL? I don't give a shit who they are! As if they'd have a chance of getting their hands on me! You want me to lose my job just because you're a proud Pureblood who won't accept this is the 21st century and Muggleborns are equals?"
Shit. That was too far. The jet of orange light shot towards her, she blocked it none verbally. Another curse aimed for her head, again, she blocked it with a single flick.
"Draco please," she pleaded, as she ran to the wall. Stop, for Merlin's sake! I don't want to duel my own husband. Please!"
"Soon to be ex-husband," Draco snarled. The words hit Hermione like a jab to the heart and she only just kept her feet.
"Fine," she said softly, tears falling in earnest. "Soon to be ex-husband! Either way, I don't want to fight you. Please, stop!" He grabbed her then by her body armour, his wand steady against her neck.
"Purely because I know those scum are still at large," he said very quietly. "I'm not letting you out of my sight tonight. Argue, you'll be sorry."
She took a deep breath, anger briefly hitting her, but then as much as she tried, love. She couldn't stop it. God, she knew she'd gone against Pureblood Culture tonight in the worst way, and that even in his anger, he was concerned for her safety. She'd almost been killed tonight, she knew that.
"Pocket your wand," he said. "Use it against me, I'll use mine back." Without a word, she did so. She knew she'd also gone against her honour and obey wedding vows, which hurt more than anything else could do. Without a word, he dragged her to the stairs, his wand steady in his hand. She felt a jolt of panic and took a deep breath. She knew she'd made him seriously angry and concerned, that this was fuelled mostly by worry.
Next second, she felt tears in her eyes, as he pushed her, gently, in to a hot shower. She raised her head and saw the massive cut on her arm, which she'd not been aware of until now. Before she could do anything, Draco was at her side, his wand on the bleeding gash. She let out a gasp of pain. God, it hurt. Gently, her husband cleaned, then heeled it.
"Thanks," she said softly, her voice shaking.
Without a word, after she was done, (he let her take as long as she needed,) he actually helped her out and to her shock, she staggered against him. She felt an arm automatically come up around her, holding her steady.
"Sorry," she said quietly, not looking in to his eyes. "I, I guess I'm more tired than I thought."
His wand still in his hand, he led her from the bathroom and in to their room. She held back her drawn in breath with difficulty. Next second, he was helping her in to their bed, which was warm and soft. Her head hit the pillow and immediately, tiredness struck her.
"Draco," she said very quietly. "Please, lower your wand? I won't move and it, it makes me nervous..."
"You, nervous? A good Muggleborn Auror who fears nothing?"
That stung. "I," she swallowed. "I don't want to be held at wand point by my own ex-husband. Please, don't..." He shook his head. "You've tried to protect me too much tonight," he said quietly. "Now, it's my turn to stop you."
"Draco," she said softly, looking in to his eyes. "You only have to be here and I feel safe..."
He scoffed at her. That caused a wave of pain to crash through her.
"Don't," he said quietly. "Give me that crap, Hermione. If you felt safe near me, you would not have felt the urge to protect me, would you? You would have let me protect you."
"Draco please," she pleaded. "Those guys were after you, Graham's in Azkaban, they wanted you to get him out. Are you telling me you would have done? The man who seriously hates me?"
"Hermione," he said softly. "Do you seriously think I have not faced this before? I'm an experienced Lawyer, I own a Law firm. Tell me. Are you doubting my abilities?"
"I just fucking love you," she yelled in to his face. "Do you not get that? Are you telling me you would not have protected me if our roles were reversed? You've just said I should have let you protect me, so do you really not understand?"
There was a long silence. Hermione didn't dare move, as Draco's wand was steady in his hand.
"Look," she said quietly. "I'm an Auror, it's my job, just as it's your job to defend him. If he gets let out of Azkaban, I know you're only doing your job. I, I should not have said that before. But Draco please, Scrimgeour asked me to protect you. I had my debrief earlier tonight and I nearly got thrown out of the Aurora's ranks because I didn't stay professional to Scrimgeour. I told him we were separated and why and that I couldn't do it, as I knew you'd be angry. He told me it's highly likely I'll see you in a working capacity again and was I going to get this upset every time? He even asked me if you controlled every aspect of our marriage! I told him no, you'd never try to control me, ever. I said he should have warned us, but he called it professional under pressure. Draco, I almost failed my job because I love you so much. I'd throw away everything for you, everything."
"Hermione," he said softly. "If those guys get their hands on you, you'll be raped and killed. Do you really not understand this?"
She nodded. "Yes, I do. But Draco, are you saying that I should run from them just because of who I am? I can't, that would make me look weak and I'd lose my job. I'm an Auror, it's what I have to do."
"What about me?" He suddenly shouted, standing, his wand still steady in his hand. "What about me, Hermione? Does it really not matter to you that every time you approach any one of those pieces of shit that I can't think with worry? Has that ever crossed your intelligent mind? It would appear not! I married you because I love you and I don't want you killed! Do you really not care about me at all? Maybe it's a good thing our marriage is over then, huh?"
She let out a gasp then, standing slowly, mindful of Draco's wand pointing straight at her. She was staring at him in pure shock.
"This is your doing, isn't it?" Her voice was just above a whisper. "That's why you won't let me use my last name as an Auror. That's why you're representing Graham. You want to keep him out of Azkaban so I'm safe. My pictures on their register, isn't it? Mud bloods to kill. You're representing him so he speaks highly of you, discouraging them from approaching me. They know you married me, so the head's asked you to represent him, or they kill me. That's why you're doing it." Draco turned his eyes on her, so dark and filled with hatred and anger, she stepped back.
"Don't bother any further," she said softly. "I lost that for myself. As I've just said, I'm a good Auror, don't," her voice shook. "Doubt my abilities..." She flinched at her words.
She was a dead Auror, and she knew it. She had no chance against them. "When it gets out our marriage is over, then it will be just me to defend myself. As Scrimgeour said, homelife out of work. Ha," she laughed sadly. "I don't know much about Pureblood culture," she said quietly. "But I know the man protects his wife at all costs. She does not protect him. But with the greatest respect, I'm not Pureblood. Could I really stand around while you were in danger?"
He was glaring at her. She stepped against the wall. "I want you gone by tomorrow," he said quietly. She met his gaze, even as pain hit her.
"I wasn't supposed to find that out," she said very softly. "Was I? Pureblood man's protection, the wife doesn't need to know."
"You heartless, ungrateful bitch," he snarled, turning on his heel and making to walk to the door. "Get out of my house."
She knew he was only walking away so he didn't curse her and she knew she should let him go, or she'd regret it. But her own anger had taken hold of her and next second, she reached out, grabbing him by the collar.
"Don't you dare walk away from me now," she yelled in to his face. "Face this like a man. I wouldn't have minded, if you'd just told me. I can cope, you know. I'm not made of glass! Just because I don't wear a Crest! What, afraid I'd object? Afraid I'd be angry? Did you, not even for a second, consider I'd be grateful you'd told me? I'm not Pureblood, don't treat me like one! But instead, you keep it to yourself, not telling me, so I end up in trouble with my boss, almost failing my training, not to mention saying things to you that were bang out of line, because I knew exactly who this man was and was scared shitless, not knowing the measures you'd taken to protect me! Did you not consider I may have felt better? Don't make me laugh! All you cared about was making sure I didn't know! Go on then, represent that piece of shit! Get him out of Azkaban! My God I hope one day some brave Muggleborn finishes the whole damn lot of you off! You fucking, Pureblood, coward."
There was a second of complete, dead, silence. Draco's eyes were so black with anger, she didn't even hear him cast the spell, until she hit the floor. She didn't even hear her own screams. Through the mist of pain, she vaguely heard the door slam shut. Eventually, she struggled to her feet, agony coursing through her. She expected to feel anger, but instead, a wave of such strong guilt crashed through her. She'd deserved that. She'd said things she could never take back. She opened the door, staggering from the room. Her head was spinning and she felt dizzy.
She had no idea where Draco was, she suspected he'd gone straight to Malfoy Inc to terminate his contract with the EPL. She knew she was in danger if he did so, but she was ready. She reached the main entrance hall; the stairs were an effort. She leant against the wall, realising there was blood coming from her head. She must have hit it as she fell. She looked in a mirror and drew in breath. There was a deep cut on her forehead, which was bleeding heavily. She raised her wand and managed to stanch the flow.
Eventually, even now it was now 02:00, she walked out of the Manor's doors and down to the gates, having no strength to apporate. She was going to talk to Scrimgeour, see if they could negotiate with the EPL. After all she'd said to Draco, she owed him that at least. Maybe if they could have successful talks, Alderson would be released and the EPL would leave them both be. Even though her marriage was now over. She reached the Ministry, week and shaken. She called Harding and Jackson, Aurors who were also her friends. They went in to Scrimgeour's office and she told him everything, accept what had just happened between her and Draco and what she was trying to achieve. Her husband's freedom, as well as countless Muggleborns. Scrimgeour hesitated for a long moment, then nodded.
A few minutes later, Iago Daulton, EPL head entered the Ministry of Magic, with his 2 body guards. The Ministry had promised they would not arrest or hurt Iago unless they had to. He was a very powerful man, with a lot of Pureblood supporters.
"Jackson," Scrimgeour said quietly. "You're a Pureblood man. I want you in there with her."
Hermione took a deep breath, then shook her head.
"No, Sir."
Scrimgeour stared at her, raising his eyebrows.
"I know what I'm doing. I don't think he'll try and hurt me. Please, let me do this."
Scrimgeour took a deep breath, then nodded, but asked Hermione if Jackson could be outside, to which she agreed.
"You need me," Jackson had murmured. "Red sparks. If you can't do those, Auror hand signal." She'd nodded.
A few seconds later, she and Daulton were entering a secure meeting room. Hermione's heart sped up, even though she tried to stop it. Shit, Iago Daulton was gorgeous. His cold, dark hazel eyes and spikey slicked back black hair, not to mention his tall and lean stature. His Pureblood Crest of gleaming platinum looked as if it was still damp with polish.
"You sure about this?" Abbey had whispered. She'd nodded.
"Hon," Abbey murmured. "You're staring. Remember who he is, babe, gorgeous or no. He'd kill you in a second."
She nodded, as the secure door slid closed. There was no safety grill between them, at Hermione's request. She was either very confident, or very stupid.
She stepped forward in to the light. Daulton's eyes narrowed as they focused on her face. "Mr. Daulton," she said softly. "Please dismiss your body guards. I have none, I do not wish you harm, I come to talk in peace."
Daulton looked at her for a second, then to her shock, clicked his fingers and his men disappeared through the heavy door. Hermione took a deep breath. This was it, the moment of truth. She raised her hand and gave the head of the EPL the Muggleborn to Pureblood salute, a gesture brought in by Purebloods centuries ago. Iago's eyebrows rows.
"You," he said softly. His voice was cold, but it made a shiver pass down her spine, not entirely fear. Shit, she needed to control this... "Are Muggleborn?"
She took a deep breath. "Yes, Sir, I am." His eyes narrowed, but remained on her face. She looked right back at him.
"I have been called here," he said very quietly. "To speak to a Mud blood? Tell me, Mud blood, why?"
"Because, Mr. Daulton I may be able to help you."
Daulton began to laugh. It was cold, mocking. It may her inwardly shiver.
"It's ok, thanks Mud blood, I have a Mistress a million times more beautiful than you at present, but I'll remember that."
Hermione had to shake her head. Stop thinking like that! She scolded herself. "He's bloody gorgeous, if I wasn't married, shit I'd have him against the wall, but he's the head of the EPL! He'd kill you in a second if he wanted to! Talk or you may end up that way!
"Mr. Daulton," she said quietly. "Will you at least let me introduce myself? My name, is Hermione Malfoy." Immediately, Daulton's eyes widened, as he looked at her.
"You are our Lawyer's wife, are you not?"
"Yes, Sir."
There was a long silence. "Well," Iago's eyes ran up and down her body. "I will admit he had some taste, even if you are a Mud blood. Your picture is on our register of one of the Mud bloods to kill. Mr. Malfoy is presently preventing this by working for us."
"I know, Sir. That's why I wanted a peaceful meeting with yourself. I wanted to try and reach a solution that will satisfy everyone. Mr. Alderson has broken countless Laws against Muggleborn women. I know you as the EPL, hate us and want us used as sex slaves. I can give Mr. Alderson his freedom from Azkaban, my boss has agreed this. He will be under house arrest, but out of prison. We will continue trying to actively protect Muggleborns from you, but will not actively track your members, unless you do something serious to a Muggleborn. If they agree to be a sex slave for example, that's between you and them. But we will leave the EPL as a whole alone to live and let live."
There was a long silence. "Pray tell me," Daulton's voice said quietly. "What are you asking from the EPL in return, Mrs. Malfoy?" Her heart leapt a little. He'd said her name, not Mud blood.
"That you let my husband go," she said quietly. "Let him represent you if he chooses, not because he has to."
"You say nothing of yourself, Mrs. Malfoy? You know why he is representing us. Do you not fear your own future?"
"No, Mr. Daulton. I am Muggleborn, nothing will change that and I am proud of it. If you really chose to, you'd kill me anyway. It's my husband's freedom I am asking for."
Daulton looked at her, his eyes thoughtful. She looked right back.
"I want to see some proof," he said softly. "Before I consider anything."
She nodded. "I thought you'd say that, Sir." The door opened and Graham Alderson was led in to the room, still in chains. Daulton looked at Hermione for a long moment.
"Sir," Graham said softly to Iago. The EPL head nodded and Alderson was taken to wait outside once more.
"Mrs. Malfoy," Daulton said softly. "Look at me as I speak to you." She raised her head, meeting his eyes. "You ask nothing of yourself, only your husband's freedom. In spite of who I am, you show no fear. I hate your kind, Mrs. Malfoy. By my principals, you should be killed for daring to look me in the eyes."
She nodded, once. Daulton held up the register so she could see her own face. She nodded again.
"Mrs. Malfoy, if your Ministry stands by everything you have promised, which your boss has just vouched for, then, as much as it goes against my beliefs, you have earned my respect, Muggleborn. Just as we are having to trust and respect your Ministry, I am asking the same from you at this moment. I ask you to approach me."
Hermione took the final step towards the head of the EPL, and stood in front of him. Her wedding rings flashed as the platinum caught the light. Then, Iago held up the register again. She saw her face. Hermione Malfoy. Mud blood wanted dead.
"You had the courage to face me," Daulton said softly. "You did not run, even though death should have probably come straight to you, or you may have become a sex slave. Uh uh," he warned, as she looked away, unable to hold his gaze, as tears blurred her sight. "Look at me when I'm speaking to you, Muggleborn." She did so, although it took an effort. She was nothing to him, just to be used.
"I know about Madame Lestrange," he said softly. "I know what she did to you."
Hermione flinched, unable to help it. "I agree completely with what she did," Daulton continued. "Blood Traitor is indeed second to Mud blood in my book." She took a deep breath, trying not to break down. Remembering that was what had started hers and Draco's separation/divorce proceedings...
"Muggleborn," Daulton murmured. "Answer me this. After you have been tortured by Madame Lestrange in our noble fight against you, why do you not beg with me for me to vanish your face from this? With your face on this register, you are facing not only countless Crucio, but rape and death. I could vanish it, you know, with one wand flick. Yet, you do not. Your only concern, ironically enough, is another Purebloods freedom. Answer my question to you, Mrs. Malfoy."
He's my husband, Sir," she whispered, unable to hold back the tears now. "I love him, he's everything to me. I'd die for him, without thought, or hesitation. He did not even tell me he was representing you, purely to protect me."
"Is that so," Daulton said softly, raising a questioning glance to her face. There was a pause. "Due to your actions tonight, you are one Muggleborn who will not be harmed by us. You are on the EPL protect list, not harmed without reason. But do not approach us, do not challenge us. If I see you again without good reason, Auror or not, I will either do the things I have warned you of myself, rape, torture and death, or you will be straight back where you are right now. You are still a Mud blood."
She took a deep breath, and nodded. "Where I am right now, Mr. Daulton?" her voice shook. "What do you..." Daulton raised the register, and tapped Hermione's face. She stared in shock, but with tears of relief falling from her eyes, as Hermione Malfoy disappeared from the EPL register.
"You will be right back on this," he said quietly. "Do you understand me, Mud blood?" Again, she nodded to him. "Call his Lawyer," Iago said softly. "And ours."
This was Hermione's queue to step out. Harding took over. A few seconds later, Draco strode in to Auror HQ and to the meeting room. He saw Daulton and Alderson. His eyebrows rows in shock.
"Mr. Malfoy," Daulton said quietly. "Do not interrupt me Sir, listen. The Ministry have passed a promise to me that in exchange for your freedom of choice, they will let us live and let live, not tracking us down unless they have to, not just because of our principals and beliefs. We hate Mud bloods, that is our choice. But they seem to accept this, at last. Someone obviously cares about you."
Draco looked back at him; his face expressionless.
"Ah, good man," Daulton murmured. "You hide your thoughts, that's what makes you such a good Lawyer."
"They did this, just for my freedom?" Draco's voice was quiet. "I am just a Lawyer. Why should the Ministry have any interest in what I do, or do not do?"
Daulton chuckled softly. "Maybe one day, Mr. Malfoy, you'll find out."
Meanwhile, Hermione had gone straight back to the Manor and was packing her cases. Abbey had gone with her and with tears in her eyes, Hermione had told her everything, including the fact Draco had asked her to leave, for good. Immediately, Abbey offered her house.
Draco was still staring at Daulton. He hadn't moved.
"You don't trust me, do you Sir?" The EPL head smiled slightly.
"That," Draco said softly. "Has never been a secret. I don't trust you, or agree with your aims or views." Daulton nodded. "But I do want to know why now, why all of a sudden. What has caused the Ministry's willingness to help me? Granted, I've represented them in the past, but why they should suddenly do this, I do not understand and would like you to explain it to me before I trust you."
Daulton smiled again, and stood.
"It will not be I, Sir," he said softly. "I have a lot of engagements this evening, late as it is. Ask them for yourself, you may find out the answer. But I can assure you, it's valid. If we need a Lawyer, we'll contact you, but you have the right to refuse, from now."
With that, he turned to the door, and was gone. Draco stood, and strode from the room, his eyes dark with anger. The man was a liar. With a crack, he was gone.
Hermione entered the reception of Auror HQ. She was dressed completely as a Muggle, and pushing 2 heavy suitcases. Abbey was with her.
"You sure, Herms? I don't mind, babe."
She smiled sadly.
"Nah, it's ok thanks. I'm going home, back to the Muggle world for a while. Thanks Abs."
Auror Jackson stepped forward and hugged her.
"You take care out their babe, alright?"
She smiled softly at him, sadness in her eyes. Then, she walked to the doors, early holding on to her tears.
Just then, Daulton appeared, alone, striding to the doors. He saw Hermione. He stopped right in front of her. Then, Hermione stared in shock, as he extended his hand to her. Without thinking, she took it.
"Good luck, Muggleborn," the EPL head murmured. "Don't approach or challenge us, keep your Ministry promises, we will not harm you. Muggle life, is it?" She nodded.
Muggleborn and EPL head stared in to each other's eyes for a long moment. He stared at her jeans, she at his gleaming Crest. "Well well," Daulton smiled. "I'll say this for a Mud blood. She does have the looks. She must really care about him, if she's done this to protect him. Good evening, Purebloods." He hesitated for a second. "Good evening, Mrs. Malfoy." He turned to the door. Before Hermione could stop herself, she'd called his name. "Mr. Daulton?"
He turned back. Again, Muggleborn and Pureblood's eyes locked. "I'm not a bad sort really," she actually gave him a soft smile. "Maybe one day you'll discover this yourself. Good luck, Sir." For a second, she was sure she saw a glimmer of a smile touch his lips. God, what am I doing, she thought? If I'm not careful, I'll do something I'll regret...
"The same is returned to you, Mrs. Malfoy," Daulton said softly.
"Thanks," she said quietly.
"Good evening," Daulton turned to the doors. He was gone.
"Damn," Jackson breathed. "Good God you've got guts, Hermione. He exists to kill and torture Mud blood women, yet you get him to shake your hand, and speak to you."
She smiled sadly at him, before heading out of the door.
…
An hour later, she was in the Muggle World, booked in to a 24 hour check in hotel, lying on her small bed to try and get a couple of hours sleep. It was now 08:00. God, it'd been a very long night indeed. The next day, she walked around London, visiting Muggle sights close to her heart. Before she knew it, it was 07:30 on Tuesday morning. Graham Alderson was consulting with his Lawyer, even though now under house arrest. Hermione would follow her boss's orders.
When she got to the Ministry, Scrimgeour stopped her, by putting a hand on her shoulder.
"Hermione," he said gently, actually using her name, knowing her marriage was in a vulnerable position. "You don't have to do this, I'm sorry for how harsh I was before. You've done enough. Please, go back to wherever you're staying.
For just a moment, she hesitated, then shook her head. "No, Sir," she said softly. "I want to see Draco one more time, even though security glass. Please, let me do this. I want to be professional, under pressure, to prove to myself as well as you I can."
Scrimgeour hesitated, then slowly nodded.
"If you have any problems at all, yes I also mean emotionally, send up red sparks immediately. Got me?"
"Yes, Sir."
She stepped behind the glass, not seeing Stuart Jacksons and Abbey Harding's encouraging but sad smiles.
Draco entered the Lawyer's Boothe, just as Alderson was bought in, in chains. To start excepting her divorce, she now wore the following badge.
Auror H. Granger.
Suddenly, Alfaro's side of the glass opened and Hermione's heart seemed to fail. It was Iago Daulton.
"Mr. Malfoy," Iago's soft voice said. "I wish to consult with you, for you to negotiate for your Client's freedom."
"That," Draco said softly, his cold voice making Hermione shiver. "Is something I cannot do. He's out of Azkaban for reasons which I still do not know or understand, as they were not my doing. The Ministry have compromised with you, I can go no further."
Daulton and Alderson smirked at each other. Alderson moved towards Draco then, in pure anger. "That's what you said to me last time, damn fucking Lawyer! What have you actually done for me? Nothing! God, you owe me at least to try!" He stepped right in front of the security glass. Hermione felt a shiver of fear and pain ran through her. Why hadn't he done this last time? This was going to be bad... She stepped forward, causing her cuffs and chains to clink a soft warning once more.
Before she'd gone in to the Muggle world, she'd changed her hair style to long and shining for good. She preferred it. Today, she'd applied a little makeup, too. Alderson laughed softly.
"An Auror? Again? Oh brilliant..."
This time, he tried to get to Draco. The Lawyer remained calm. Hermione stepped in to the small Boothe and grabbed Alderson. This time, he tried to touch her sexually, knowing she had been on the EPL register as a Mud blood to die and be raped.
Daulton's and Hermione's eyes met. Brown in to hazel, as she tried to find a shred of mercy in his gaze. "Graham," Iago said softly. "Don't touch her." Graham's eyebrows rows in pure shock, as he stared at his boss. "Take your seat," Iago said softly, his voice cold. "I do not want you fighting this Auror."
"Sir," Graham said. "What the hell? She's a Mud blood!"
"Take, your, seat," Iago's voice was firm, not to be disobeyed. Graham did so.
She suddenly felt a shiver of fear. She knew what Daulton was going to do. Shit. In spite of everything, she couldn't stop the spark of comfort knowing her husband was just behind the glass, even though he was soon going to be her ex-husband.
"Auror," Daulton's voice was a soft whisper. "Get Mr. Alderson from house arrest, or you know what will happen."
"Mr. Daulton," her voice shook. "I can't. I told you that when we agreed. I can't, he's committed offences against Muggleborn women."
"Then you will negotiate with his Lawyer, and your boss," Daulton said very softly. "Or he will see his wife getting fucked right in front of him. Move, Mud blood."
Immediately, she radioed Scrimgeour, and Aurora's Jackson and Harding ran in.
"That will not help you," Daulton said softly. "Do as I say, Mud blood. I mean it, or I will fuck you myself. If you try and stop her Scrimgeour, countless Mud bloods will die, and Our talks are invalid."
Scrimgeour opened his mouth in hatred, but Hermione looked in to his face. She'd known Daulton would not keep his word. "Professional under pressure," she mouthed. "I'll do this, God help me. I'm sure. Please, sir." Scrimgeour looked at her for a long moment, sadness and in his eyes. Then, with a gentle touch to her shoulder and understanding and respectful nod, he stepped forward, and tapped on the Lawyer's security grill. Draco stepped back to it and their eyes met. For security, neither party could hear the other, unless they spoke through the grill.
"Mr. Malfoy, we, the Ministry of magic, are prepared to negotiate with you for your client's freedom. I ask to talk with you, alone." Draco's eyes darkened with anger.
"I," he said very quietly. "Am the EPL Lawyer. First I am told I no longer have to be, that I have a choice, which I do not understand at all. Then, all of a sudden, you are prepared to free my Client, just like that? I'm sorry Mr. Scrimgeour, I want a reason, before I agree to negotiate anything with you."
Hermione smiled sadly at him, knowing it was time for the truth. Her marriage would at least end with no secrets, she'd decided.
"Agreed, Mr. Malfoy," Scrimgeour said, sadness in his voice. The truth is not something I wanted to be the one to discuss with you. I'm going to open the glass and I ask you to step through. Mr. Daulton, I want you alone for this. Jackson, Harding, either side of him."
They moved immediately. Scrimgeour opened the glass. At Daulton's nod, Graham was dragged away, out of the room, where 2 other Aurors were waiting. Eyes cold with fury and questioning, Draco stepped out.
"Mr. Malfoy," Scrimgeour said quietly. "This is why. This is the reason, which will answer all your questions." Hermione stepped forward, in to the light.
"Mr. Malfoy," Scrimgeour murmured, his hand on Hermione's shoulder and staying there. "You are not forced to be their Lawyer, because of Hermione. We are willing to negotiate because of Hermione. As recently as 2 days ago, she made a promise to Mr. Daulton himself, that in exchanged for your freedom of choice, we would let the EPL live and let live. Mr. Daulton has asked for this, in exchange for Hermione to remain safely off the EPL register. This is why he will not let Mr. Alderson touch her. This is why we are willing to discuss it with you and negotiate."
Then, very sadly, he said what he had to, what she'd begged him to call her if he needed to. "Auror Granger, back exit, please. Your work is done, thank you." She started moving, until she was stopped.
"Muggleborn," Daulton's soft voice said. "Stop, meet my eyes." She did so.
"It would appear you are to divorce," Daulton mocked softly, seeing her badge. "The only one who could have kept you safe. Dear oh dear, Mud blood. Why will his freedom matter to you then? I warned you, did I not? Approach us again, you're ours. Thinking about it, you'd be a good fuck." With a sigh, he handed her a square silver badge. She looked at it.
Protected.
Wear that, none of my men or I will touch you, unless you do something to lose the privilege."
"Privilege," Jackson scoffed. "Bastard."
"Sir, how do I know it's real?"
"Why Muggleborn, you doubt me."
"Sir, in case you haven't noticed, you'd kill me in a second if you wished."
"Hmmm, very true," Daulton conceded with a cruel smile. "But surely Muggleborn, you're not scared of me, are you? You have just been in a meeting room alone with me. Or, do you just lust over me? It's ok, too many women to count do so."
She stepped to the wall, Scrimgeour's hand on her shoulder, so only he saw and felt her shiver.
"Both?" He breathed. She nodded.
"I say again, wear it, you're safe. But I have already warned you what you must not do. Approach us without reason, challenge us, or threaten us." She nodded to him.
"Turn it over, Muggleborn, you'll know it's real then." She did so. There was a Pureblood Crest on the back.
"Oh just fantastic," she said bitterly. "Wear the Pureblood Crest, you're a safe Mud blood."
"Muggleborn," Daulton warned. "It's that or die. You made your promises, we made ours. This is to make sure yours are kept by us. But," he smiled cruelly at her. "If you'd rather they weren't, we can always change the plan."
"Shut up," Jackson snarled. "God if there weren't so many women in here and a Muggleborn to honour, I'd duel you myself you son of a bitch."
"Tut tut," Daulton mocked. "In front of my Lawyer? Very unwise, Sir."
Jackson glared at Draco now, but Hermione squeezed his arm.
"Please," she mouthed desperately. "This is bad enough... Please don't..."
Gently, the arm she had squeezed, came up around her shoulders tightly, then as both came around her, turned her to face him, in to a warm and safe hug. Immediately, she was blinking back tears against his shoulder.
"What's the decision, Muggleborn?" Daulton's soft voice said. "Wear the badge? Don't wear the badge? Ah," he smiled slightly. "You're being embraced by a Pureblood man at this moment, who is not your husband. Maybe now you are protected."
"Yeah, because her husband's just standing there, doing fuck all for her after she risked her life for him," Jackson suddenly shouted, his arms tightening around Hermione. "God some men are sons of bitches. If her supposed husband won't help her, Merlin help me I will!" With a sigh of defeat, she pinned the badge to her body armour.
"So touching," Daulton sneered. "You telling me you've done all this for him and he's leaving you? Ah, Pureblood men, so wise. Mud bloods would never make good wives. Fucks, maybe." Hermione wasn't even aware of it when Jackson released her.
"Face me," he snarled. "Face me like a man, Daulton."
"I thought you just said you'd honour the women in here," Daulton mocked him. "What, wanting a fuck from her, are you?"
Jackson's wand was in the air so fast, she didn't see it. The jet of red light passed right by Daulton's left ear.
Next second, the 2 Pureblood men were duelling with an intensity she'd never seen and she knew with a cold certainty, they were fighting to kill.
She couldn't move. If she tried to help Jackson, Draco would be back in danger. If she didn't, her good friend could be dead. Suddenly, she was grabbed and pushed back against the security glass, then pulled behind the secure grill, as it slid closed. She could see, but not hear.
"We will talk," Draco's soft voice said in her ear, cold with anger. "Do not doubt this, Auror Granger."
"Oh fucking save it," she snarled back. "I'm using my madden name for God's sake you stupid idiot. I've excepted it, now let me start dealing with the pain and grief. Just leave me be, damn you. I've done this because believe it or not I still love you, but as you don't feel the same, fine. Just leave me alone. I knew what I was doing, so if you're going to challenge me, call me a stupid Mud blood, don't bother. I can think for myself; you know. Pureblood's don't control my life. I've already got to wear this badge like an animal to show I'm safe, so spare me the fucking lecture. Why did you do it," she mocked. "He could kill you, rape you, you're so stupid, blab fucking blab."
He opened his mouth, and in pure fury, she repeated third year to the last detail.
Her hand slammed in to the side of his face. "You heard me," she was shaking with anger. "Shut, up." Then, she pushed back through, running to her colleague's side. Just as the jet of green light sped towards Jackson. Hermione was standing right in front of him. She missed death by an inch.
"Stop," she pleaded through her tears. "Please..."
"Ah," Daulton's soft and cold voice mocked. "So cute, Mud blood. So cute. Auror, step away from me, or we fight to kill." Glaring in utter hatred, Jackson did so.
"Muggleborn," Daulton murmured. "Answer me. You get one chance, so consider your answer with care." She nodded.
"Considering the, ah, volatile state of your marriage, tell me. Are you still prepared to keep our agreement?" She stared straight in to his eyes then, for the first time.
"I'll have to die to stop it," she said clearly and completely steadily. "Draco is everything to me, he always will be. Though he is leaving me, he is the owner of my heart."
Without another word, she turned to the exit, walking towards the door. "Good night, gentlemen. Sir, my Divorce papers will arrive in your office, when my ex-husband sends them. That's the address I've given."
Scrimgeour nodded, with a sad smile. With a swish of his black robes, Daulton disapporated. "Hermione, go and sleep. Now. That's an order. Is there anything I can do for you?"
She took a deep breath, and swallowed all her pride. "Call a Healer, please." A few seconds later, she heard the soft voice.
"Auror Granger, I'm healer Anderson, here as long as you need me. What can I do for you, sweetheart?"
"Sedate me, please. Knock me unconscious, I beg you, I can't deal with the pain."
Scrimgeour gently nodded. With a flick of her wand, there was a stretcher on the ground.
Hermione lay on it without a word. Then, the Healer saw her EPL badge and covered her mouth in horror, tears in her eyes. Slowly, she raised her wand and pointed it at Hermione's chest.
"St. Mungo's tonight please," Scrimgeour ordered. "An Auror room."
"Yes Sir," the Healer saluted to him. Then, she gently stunned Hermione. Her eyes rolled up to whites and she was still.
"I'm going with her Sir," Jackson said quietly. Then, he looked at Draco. "You son of a bitch," he snarled. "Come too close to me, I'll kill you, as Merlin is my witness. My God I hate you. Some fucking husband you were." He stepped to the stretcher's side, and disapporated with it.
