I've taken a few liberties!
This chapter is intense. There is so much happening and the little details help fill the gaps of the story.
Enjoy Chapter Twenty-One!
Let me know your thoughts so far! Trust me, it helps loads! :) Stay safe beautiful people!
HAPPY READING! :)
Hermione scanned the crowd.
Draco had disappeared.
Nervously she fidgeted in her chair and Blaise caught on.
"You ok Granger?" He asked in concern.
"Where is Draco?" She asked the olive-skinned handsome man, who was looking at Parvati lustfully.
Parvati caught him looking and stiffened.
Why was Blaise looking at her like that? She thought.
He was gorgeous, but he had never glanced her way back at Hogwarts.
Shyly Parvati averted her gaze and Blaise looked away with a smile.
Turning to Hermione, he shrugged. He had no idea where Draco was.
At once Hermione caught sight of the platinum blonde enter the hall and she relaxed.
Moments later, she saw her bidder walk in through the outer entrance a limp to his step wiping his mouth with a white handkerchief that came off with droplets of blood.
She narrowed her eyes suspiciously.
Draco was fast approaching their table.
Without hesitation, he grabbed her by the elbow and manoeuvred her towards the crowding dance floor.
The band struck up a pleasing tune.
He twirled her and pulled her close to his body.
Lovingly she adjusted his bowtie and muttered, "So handsome."
Anger radiated off him and the eyes visible through the slits in the mask were deadly swirls of greyish blue, they narrowed in rage over her head and she turned in their direction to see her bidder standing by the dance floor staring at them.
Draco let go and made to march up to him but Hermione held him around his waist tightly, resting her head on his chest.
She heard the rapid beating of his heart through the material.
"What's wrong love?" She asked timidly against his chest.
Tenderly he stroked her hair, inhaling deeply he let her smell take up residence in his subconscious mind.
"Do you have any idea who bid on you and fucking won?" Draco asked not bothering to hide the contempt and disgust in his voice.
Hermione looked up at his handsome face, "For you to be this upset, I have half mind to think it's Ron."
Draco's mouth twisted further with disgust, but composing himself enough, he hissed, "It's that American fucktard."
Hermione's eyes widened in shock, she almost stepped away from Draco.
"What?" She cried out in shock.
"You won't be going and that is final," Draco declared with finality.
There was no way in fucking hell she would be dining with that prick.
"The contracts are binding," Hermione reminded him miserably.
He laughed, "There must be some way to get out of it."
She remembered the blood on Ryan's handkerchief.
"How did you find out it was him?" Hermione asking curiously.
Draco smirked and told her the events that followed after the bid.
Hermione narrowed her eyes, dropped her hands, and stepped out of Draco's embrace.
A red sheath of anger clouded her vision.
It was Flint all over again.
"You assaulted him because he goaded you?" she asked in disbelief.
That wiped the smirk clean off his face and he reached to pull her closer.
Defiantly Hermione stepped further away, "You can't physically attack people just because they say something you don't like Draco."
Grinding her teeth frustratingly, she left a stunned man on the dancefloor.
What the hell just happened?
He watched Hermione join Ginny and Potter, she rubbed her bare arms and glanced in his direction furiously.
Adjusting his jacket, Draco went in search of Narcissa.
His mother's soft laughter turned his head in her direction.
She was standing among elegantly dressed witches and wizards discussing matters and engaged in a lighthearted conversation.
Walking purposefully up to her, the others turned to look at him hovering behind his mother.
He politely smiled and spoke to Narcissa, "Mother, please forgive my intrusion, can I have a word?"
"Draco, how are you son?" A stout handsomely dressed gentleman asked. He held court and garnered the respect of the wizards around him.
Giving a curt bow at the gathered wizards, Draco replied, "I am quite well Lord Cartwright."
"Indeed," Lord Cartwright answered looking over at Hermione laughing with Ginny and Ron.
Narcissa followed his gaze and frowned.
Stepping in quickly, she said, "Come Draco, you wanted to speak with me," and then turning to the esteemed group of men, she curtsied, "Please do excuse me, gentleman."
"What is it?" Narcissa asked impatiently, slipping her hand through her sons
They walked politely smiling at the people that passed by.
"How do we undo the contract on a bid?" Draco asked through clenched teeth.
Narcissa threw him a look, and answered, "By attending the dinner or failure to honour payment."
His shock is head in frustration, "Is there any other bloody way?"
She stopped and turned her son to face her, "Not that I know of, what is the matter?"
Fixing his eyes on his girlfriend, he snarled, "The man who bid on Hermione has a sick infatuation with her."
Narcissa looked shocked, "The American who came with the Minister?"
Draco nodded solemnly.
She let out a composed laugh, "He hardly seems dangerous, I think it will fine, trust Hermione."
"Should we dare ask why you are over here with us and not with that gorgeous man staring at you?" Ginny asked, nudging Hermione's shoulder and pointing at Draco.
True to her word, Draco was staring at them.
Hermione locked eyes with Harry and said, "Ryan won the bid."
His mouth twisted and you could tell Harry was not pleased, "That bloody idiot, he just won't take no for an answer."
"Who the heck is Ryan?" Ginny asked looking at them interestedly.
Harry placed a hand on his wife's shoulder and smiled, "It's a long story love, I'll tell you later."
Ginny fumed wondering why this was the first time she was hearing about this man.
Draco ordered a scotch on the rocks and stood back waiting for it.
Blaise walked over and did the same.
"What's going on Drake, you look pissed off to shit," Blaise asked scanning the crowd.
Turning to take his drink, Draco drained half, "The American bid on Hermione."
"WHAT?" Blaise bellowed making the witches near him jump.
"I'll fucking kill him if he touches her," Draco said in a dark and deadly tone.
"And why is Granger glaring at you?" Blaise asked looking over at the bunch of Gryffindor's.
Draco laughed, "She does not condone my actions and by actions, I mean knocking the shit out of that fucking wanker."
Blaise joined the laughter and they fist-bumped.
Parvati glided in front of them and shyly glanced at Blaise before disappearing around the corner.
"I'll catch you later Drake, there's something I need to do," he patted his best friend on the shoulder and walked after the pretty woman.
Draco shrugged, drained his drink and decided Hermione had given him the cold shoulder for long enough.
He took a step in her direction when a small hand grasped his arm.
Surprised, he turned to the source.
It was the lovely young woman who bid on him.
Involuntarily, Draco smiled warmly at the petite lady before him.
From across the way, Hermione frowned at the exchange.
The woman returned his smile and said, "It is so good to see you Draco."
That voice, it was familiar.
Grinning he asked for the second time that night, "Who are you?"
Pearls of laughter surrounded him and she touched his arm provocatively, "You will find out tomorrow at dinner."
He eyed her manicured fingers on his arm, "I guess I will."
Letting go she purposely eyed the dancefloor.
Draco took the hint. Hermione was ignoring him and there was hardly any harm in just one dance.
Offering his arm, he asked, "Would you like to dance?"
Her luscious lips curved upwards in a seductive smile, "Of course."
Hermione watched in shock as Draco lead his mystery bidder on to the dancefloor.
She narrowed her eyes at the woman placing her hands on Draco's shoulder and entwine her gloved fingers through his.
If looks could kill he would be dying a thousand deaths.
Her chest heaved with the anger coursing through her veins.
The no-good Slytherin.
"Who's the foxy woman in Malfoy's arms?" Ron asked callously.
They all turned to look at him and groaned.
Without hesitation, Ginny pinched his arm.
"Ow, what the hell Gin?" He asked rubbing the area and scowling at his sister.
Hermione watched unwaveringly, her temper steadily increasing with every second Draco had the woman in his arms.
It peaked when the bitch leaned towards his ear and whispered something that had him throwing his head back in laughter.
Her hands balled into fists.
"Err…Hermione are you ok?" Harry asked cautiously.
Ginny stifled a laugh at how careful and controlled Harry's tone was.
"Oh, I'm fucking fabulous," Hermione spat out with contempt, grabbing a champagne flute from passing by server, she drained it at once.
Parvati was deep in conversation with Lavender.
They were interrupted by a deep cough.
"Why hello Blaise," Lavender greeted her ex-school mate enthusiastically.
"Good to see you ladies," Blaise replied with a bright smile.
Parvati stiffened at the feel of the imposing man standing behind her.
Lavender noticed her friend's body language and said, "Parvati here was just talking about you."
Embarrassed, her eyes widened in shock. Slowly, Parvati turned to face Blaise, bringing her face up to meet his.
"Was she now?" He asked Lavender amused.
"Darling, let's talk later," she politely told Parvati and excused herself.
Leaning forward, Blaise whispered, "I hope it was all good things you spoke about," and offered her his arm.
Parvati blushed crimson but took the offered arm eagerly.
They went towards the immaculately manicured gardens of Nott Manor.
By the time the song ended and Draco escorted the woman to the edge of the dancefloor, Hermione was on her fourth glass of champagne.
"Don't you think you've had enough?" Harry hissed out of the corner of his mouth much like an older brother.
Ginny rolled her eyes and Hermione stared at her boyfriend.
Placing the glass on a nearby table, she walked directly up to Draco and stood behind him tapping her foot dangerously.
The heel clicked soundly against the marbled floor.
He smirked and turned to face the irked beautiful Gryffindor.
"Remembered me have you Granger?" he asked sarcastically.
Her eyes narrowed through the mask, "If she is planning on spending tonight in your company, please inform her that she has not donated enough."
Fiery witch, Draco thought.
Trying to reach for her hand, Draco asked amused, "Are you jealous my love?"
Arching her head, exposing the smooth flesh of her neck Hermione laughed, "Not in the least but I can show you what true jealously feels like."
With that, she turned on her heel and headed straight for the Minister of Magic.
The champagne had given her the confidence to do what she was about too.
Draco narrowed his eyes in unadulterated fury.
She fucking wouldn't...
"Granger, you look good," Kingsley complimented her warmly.
Hermione muttered a quick, "Thank you," and turned her attention to the man sitting at the table staring at her through his elaborate mask.
"Ryan do you want to dance?" She asked without much thought of the consequences.
He was on his feet at once, he threw a triumphant look to the fuming platinum blonde staring at them and with a smirk lead Hermione on to the dance floor.
It took all of Draco's will power not to march up to them and rip her away from the leeches grasp.
Alcohol, he needed fucking alcohol.
Where was the bloody server?
Expertly twirling her around the dance floor, Ryan asked curiously, "How did you know it was me?"
She glanced at Draco who looked positively murderous.
Ryan glared and nodded understandably.
The Death Eater would pay for putting his hands on him.
Eyes blazing, Hermione asked sternly, "Why did you bid on me?"
Deciding to play it cool, Ryan replied coolly, "Because it is for a worthy cause."
She narrowed her eyes suspiciously, "And that's all? No hidden agenda's?"
He affectionately brushed a wild curl off her face, "You have my word."
Hermione tilted her head back away from his touch.
Fuck no, he was not going to stand by and watch that fucking lunatic touch his girlfriend.
The moment he took a step forward, a firm hand held him back.
"You are a gentlemen Draco," the deep voice of a masked man instructed him sternly.
Strict green eyes stared into rebellious grey.
"What is this infatuation you have over the Muggle-born witch?" the green-eyed main questioned impatiently.
Aggressively Draco shook his hand loose from the iron-clad grip of the stranger.
"What business is it of yours?" He asked the man menacingly.
This night was not going as planned. His temper was through the roof, he wanted to get out before he killed somebody.
"Do not forget who you are and why you come from son," the well-dressed man advised Draco harshly.
Before he could reply, the man stepped away and disappeared into the crowd.
"Parvati, I would like to ask you out sometime," Blaise asked confidently, sitting on a bench looking up into the starry sky.
A few raindrops fell and landed on his cheek.
"I would like that very much," she replied taking his hand.
They leaned in to share a quick sweet kiss before getting up and heading inside.
The sound of thunder could be heard over the chatter and music.
A storm was brewing.
They parted ways and Blaise went in search of Draco.
Ryan moved Hermione around the floor effortlessly, the man knew how to dance, but he complimented her instead, "You dance like a dream."
She rolled her eyes and glanced in the direction of her boyfriend.
The song ended and Ryan boldly kissed Hermione's petite hand before letting her go, "I look forward to dinner."
"Is everything alright mate?" Blaise questioned Draco.
"Fucking fantastic!" Draco growled.
Rubbing her hand, she stepped away from him and before Draco could approach she sought sanctuary in Narcissa.
He would hardly make a scene in front of his strict mother.
"Darling, are you all right?" Narcissa questioned in concern.
She nodded and they spoke of how successful the auction had been.
Hermione sighed, had she foreseen this turn of events, she would have told Annabelle to shove the idea up her arse.
A distinguished gentleman approached Narcissa.
"Dear Lord Canterbury," she gushed exchanging airy kisses with the man.
He turned to Hermione, who at once felt scrutinized.
"You are Draco's little girlfriend, are you not dear?" He asked without introduction.
His obvious condescending tone add to the tension.
Hermione felt Narcissa stiffen next to her, the regal lady's body language was enough to tell her that she was angry.
Lifting her head proudly Hermione replied politely, "Yes I am."
A smile curved the lips of the tall Lord, "Are you also not Mr. Nott's widow?"
Hermione felt a shiver ran down her spine at the cruel and pointless question.
"With all due respect Lord Canterbury, my late husband would not dare have me refer to myself as his widow," she replied confidently.
The man looked her over slowly, taking her in inch by inch, "I am sure Theodore did not know your true character."
Distracted by a falling tray behind her, Hermione hurriedly bent to help the poor server and did not hear the last of Lord Canterbury's rude comments.
But Narcissa did and she stepped in between, her fingers around her wand, "I do not like what you are insinuating."
The man laughed viciously, "You are naïve to think a pairing of Draco with her will be tolerated by the pureblood families."
Narcissa narrowed her eyes, "You are mistaken if you think the Malfoys' care about the opinion of a few prejudiced fools."
Taking Hermione's hand in hers firmly she said, "Excuse us."
Rudely they turned away from the perplexed man who was used to getting his way.
Stopping near the entrance, Narcissa cupped Hermione's face, "Pay no heed to these old fools."
Hermione could not help but smile weakly. She went to stand by Ginny, Harry and Ron.
She had missed the last parts of the conversation and wondered about Narcissa's last words to her.
"Fancy a dance Mi?" Ron asked excitedly.
Rolling her eyes, she declined.
Coming from behind, Draco grabbed her elbow.
He greeted the Gryffindors and hissed in her ear, "Say your goodbyes."
Hermione tried to break free but he was too strong, she should have known better than to play with fire.
"What?" she asked in mock surprise.
His long fingers dug into her skin, his touch burnt her skin, "We are leaving Granger."
With her free hand, she grabbed another champagne and downed it giving her a nice steady buzz.
Ginny grinned and said, "Have a good night Mi."
Hermione smiled sheepishly and mouthed, "Help me…."
With a curt nod, Draco navigated through the crowds not loosening his grip on her.
"I'm going to teach you a lesson," he whispered against her ear and bit down hard on her earlobe before apparating them away.
The minute their feet touched the soft carpet of his flat.
He threw away his mask and ripped hers from her face.
His lips came down hard on hers.
Fingers dug into her bareback, leaving little marks on her skin.
He kissed along her chin and pressed hard against her throat biting and leaving teeth marks across her skin.
Tiny bites, marking her as his.
Arching her head, she moaned in pleasure.
Turning her around roughly, he undid the zip and the black gown fell at her feet in a crumpled mess.
Leaving her exposed in nothing but her black lace thong, a whimper escaped her ruby red lips as the cold air in the flat hit her bare skin.
He snaked his fingers down her back and firmly grasped an arse cheek.
Kneading the flesh, he moved his hand inwards and cupped her cunt from behind.
Hermione gasped and leaned into the fingers that were spreading her lips apart ferociously.
He assaulted her cunt spreading her lips further.
"Don't you ever fucking push me, Granger," Draco growled, roughly pulling her against him.
Continuing to work her cunt, he devoured her neck sucking on the delicate skin leaving a deep red mark.
He felt her slick wetness, beads of pleasure steadily dripped down her legs as his fingers brought her close to that sinfully beautiful orgasm.
He pulled away and she groaned in frustration, her high had just been at the point of spilling over.
"You think I'm going to let you fucking come so easily," He snarled.
He pushed her down on the bed and started to take off his clothes.
She watched mesmerized as each article of clothing left his body joining the messy bundle of expensive clothes on the floor.
Fuck, he was gorgeous.
Naked, he strode towards her, a hunger to his eyes a lustful wanting.
He stroked his impressive length, slowly moving his fingers bringing himself to life.
"I'm going to fuck that arse tonight,"
Hermione moved further up the bed, she had only ever let him claim her that way and it had been such a rush.
"Draco..." she whispered.
"Shut up Granger, tonight I'm not asking, I'm taking," he growled.
"This is jealousy, possessiveness. I'm going to fucking own you," Draco hissed locking eyes with her.
Letting go of his length, he grabbed her ankles and pulled her towards him.
Like a life-size rag doll, she slid across the silk sheets effortlessly, until her face was inches away from his.
The last thing she saw before he bent his head and claimed her lips was a smirk of determination that flashed across his grey pools of sexiness.
His mouth moved against hers fluidly, his tongue pushing hard against hers.
He took her bottom lip in between his teeth and bit down hard.
Her fingers ran the length of the taut body, feeling every cord of muscle ripple under the sensitive skin of her fingertips.
Merlin, he was kissing his way down her body.
Cupping a breast, he took a nipple in his mouth, slowly moving his tongue around the bud.
He did the same to the other.
Fuck, kissing and nibbling at her skin.
"Do you like this thong?" Draco groaned against the tingling skin of her thigh.
Her back arched, fingers deep in his hair.
What thong?
He ripped it off her, she heard the material protest for a second.
"So wet..," he cooed running his fingers along the slit and sliding them inside her swollen pussy lips.
Slowly moving his fingers to her clit, he squeezed it between his thumb and forefinger and rubbed it.
Hermione cried out in pleasure.
He let his fingers roam around the wetness before slipping two fingers inside her tight fucking hole, curling his fingers he felt her walls tighten on his digits.
"You like that don't you baby?" he asked huskily.
Her eyes half, Hermione closed her thighs holding his fingers captive within her.
Draco let her have a moment as his fingers swiftly moved in and out against her tightness.
Slowly at first...then faster...
Deciding she had enough, he pried her thighs apart and withdrew his fingers.
Generously spreading her juices across her thighs, he licked the remaining of her juices off his fingers.
He loved how she tasted.
A sweetness mixed with a hint of saltiness.
Grabbing her legs, he flipped her over.
A lump formed in his throat, he swallowed hard, she was so fucking beautiful, he wanted to devour her whole.
Despite her increasing moans and groans, she remained docile and obedient.
He wanted to hear her scream in pleasure.
Grabbing her arse cheeks roughly, he brought them up, keen to please she propped herself on her elbows and readily offered her porcelain white buttocks to him.
Spreading her cheeks, he spied on his prize.
She had been the only woman he fucked in the arse, somehow and not without offers it had remained only her.
Moving closer, Draco spread her cheeks further and felt her catch her breath.
He was so close to her cunt, he could smell her arousal, her heat.
The enticing wetness pulled him, abandoning his need to possess her arse, he bent his lips to her cunt.
The minute his lips touched her slit, she let out a loud moan of wanting.
She ground her pussy against his face and he pushed his tongue within lapping her eager and steadily dripping wetness.
Inserting a finger to massage her swollen clit, he coated his digits generously with her juices.
Armed with her slickness, he ran the finger across her clenched up little arsehole.
A low whimper escaped her mouth.
Licking her cunt, he used his fingers to lubricate the entrance slowly pushing a finger inside.
Her groans increased.
Withdrawing himself from licking her dripping pussy, he thrust his rock hard cock into her cunt.
She cried out, holding onto a pillow for dear life.
He thrust into her glazing his cock with the goodness of her pussy.
Despite her protests, Draco pulled out after a few hard thrusts.
Spreading her cheeks, he rubbed his head along the clenched up entrance of her arse.
"Oh God," Hermione cried willing her body to relax.
She bit down hard on the pillow.
Gripping his cock firmly, he slowly guided into her.
With little resistance, he pushed the blood-filled head in.
The tight ring of her anus closed around his head in an iron-clad grip.
Fuck that was tight
She cried out with a mixture of pain and pleasure.
So much pleasure
He did not anticipate her next move.
She pushed back and he lost control.
He was buried up to his balls inside her arse.
Draco groaned aloud.
Fuck it felt amazing
She moved, thrusting her arse against his girth, groaning and moaning underneath.
Fuck the tightness was squeezing beads of come right off his head.
She pushed again, getting comfortable in having him in her arse.
Smirking he grabbed her hips and with a hard push started to fuck her.
Slow at first, it turned urgent and fast.
He saw the sweat glisten off her flawless skin and back.
The beads of sweat that accumulated on his back and chest slid down him onto the bed.
She groaned under him, moving in and out faster, "Draco, I'm going to come."
Taking a fistful of her hair, he pulled it back, pulling out of her arsehole, he entered her cunt.
Their naked bodies pounding against each other echoed in his ears.
Fucking both her holes simultaneously was erotically satisfying.
If she was going to come, he wanted to drown his cock in it.
Grabbing her hair, he slapped her arse cheek hard, blood rushed to the assaulted area.
He felt the creep under his ball sack, that steady climb until it consumed him.
Letting go of her hair, his fingers dug into her skin.
They were both at that point of no return.
He pounded into her relentlessly.
"Babe," she managed before, her body convulsed and the feeling of ecstasy spread through her body right to her toes.
Pulling her hard against him, he buried his cock to the hilt and growled, his shuddering climax hit his balls as it thundered to the surface and into her waiting warmth.
Draco held onto Hermione tight around her stomach, panting and breathing heavily until their legs gave out and they fell forward together, his cock still in her, he laid on her back and kissed her neck.
"So...beautiful," he whispered lovingly caressing her back.
Her breathing fast and erratic with pleasure, she remained quiet beneath.
With desperate gasps for air, they lay on the bed.
Exhausted but wanting to quench his thirst, Draco pushed himself off Hermione and walked naked into the kitchen.
The cool air from the fridge made the hairs on his neck rise.
Grabbing a bottle of cool water, he drained it whole.
Taking another one, Draco strode into the room to find her sitting up her chest heaving with what they had done.
He offered the water bottle and she took it. Eagerly drinking the liquid to hydrate herself.
Tenderly cupping her face, he asked in concern, "Are you ok?"
Their session had been rough and a part of him was worried he had taken it too far.
Leaning into his touch, she smiled already half asleep, nodding weakly she fell against the soft pillows.
"We need to talk Hermione," he told her wanting to clear the air about Ryan.
She snuggled further into the pillows, hiding her face under a soft pillow, "I'm tired can we talk tomorrow morning?"
Reluctantly he sighed and agreed. She did look exhausted.
"Hold me, darling," Hermione asked reaching for his arm.
Putting his arms around her naked form, he brought her closer to his chest and warmth.
Draco watched Hermione's eyes flutter momentarily and close.
Her hair sprawled across the pillow wildly, he brushed rogue strands off her face and slid under the covers next to her nuzzling against her warmth, he fell into a deep slumber.
The sun was mercilessly bright, it did nothing to improve his mood.
Despite sexual gratification, Draco woke up to a throbbing headache and sour mood.
Glancing at his sleeping witch, he frowned slightly, pushed the bedding aside and got off.
Deciding an early shower would do wonders for his mood, he turned the water to lukewarm and stood under the steady spray.
His muscles ached from the strenuous use the previous night, the warm water mollified his used muscles.
When he came out, the bed was empty.
Changing into a pair of shorts, Draco strode into the kitchen.
The shower did nothing to appease his mood if anything his anger was at boiling point.
"Good morning darling," Hermione greeted him cheerfully dressed in one of his shirts and messy curls on top her head.
She placed a cup of steaming tea in front of him and her smiled wavered at the darkness that spread across his pale face.
"What's the matter?" Hermione asked in concern.
"You know why," Draco answered through clenched teeth.
Sighing exasperatedly, she leaned against the kitchen counter and sipped her tea.
Taking his tea, Draco disappeared into his study leaving Hermione to stew in her frustrations.
Narcissa glanced at the Prophet and Quibbler and smiled.
The photographs of the event had come out very well, it looked extravagant and classy. For once the captions that accompanied were favourable and not scandalous.
Annabelle read the captions aloud, a smile plastered to her face.
Dotty hurried around them servicing tea and breakfast.
Looking forlorn, Narcissa recalled the verbal abuse Hermione had suffered the night before.
She frowned getting angry at the memory.
How dare they judge Hermione and condemn her relationship with Draco?
Making a mental note to speak to her son about this growing concern, she turned to Annabelle to discuss the proceeds that had been raised.
The atmosphere around them was strained, threatening to spill over at any moment.
They ate lunch in silence until Hermione spoke up, "I'm leaving Draco, I'll bring my clothes and come by later."
He pushed his plate aside roughly, "What's best is if you don't go to dinner."
Picking up the plates, she carefully placed it in the sink, "You are being ridiculous."
"Oh am I?" He asked incredulously.
Rolling her eyes, without bothering to answer, she took her wand and left.
The books and papers in his study took the brunt of his anger, he tossed them aside in frustration.
He hated not being in control.
The skies darkened from a brilliant shade of salmon pink and orange to full black with thousands of stars lighting up the heavens.
Eagerly and nervously everyone got ready for their dinner reservations.
Blaise dressed in a crisp blue shirt, black trousers and casual blazer.
He turned to the side and gave himself an approving nod.
Apparating directly to the Muggle fine dining restaurant "The Soak" he walked in and gave the hostess his name.
She smiled at him warmly and led him to a table.
Ordering a scotch neat, he sat back and took in his surroundings.
The woman walking towards him was hard to miss.
Obviously, in her late thirties, she was an exotic beauty.
Long black hair sashayed down her shoulders and her waist stopping just above her buttocks.
Blaise eyed her appreciatively.
Catlike eyes sparkled and luscious red lips curved upwards in a smile.
Politely he rose as she got closer and offered his hand.
His Italian blood burned.
Graciously she took it and he placed a kiss to it before holding the chair out for her.
His fingers grazed her skin gently.
"Thank you Mr. Zabini," she cooed in a foreign accent.
He took his seat and stared at the breathtaking woman in front of him.
Clearing his throat, he found his voice, "And you are?"
She ordered a bourbon neat and smiled at Blaise, "Layla Akkari."
Before he asked, she answered what he was thinking, "I am half Lebanese, my mother was English."
Blaise swallowed, fuck she was exquisite.
His eyes travelled down her lips, neck and came to rest above her bosom.
Her drink arrived and they clinked glasses.
"To the best charity donation I have ever made," she toasted in her sexy accent.
Blaise smirked and wondered how his name would sound coming out of those fuckable lips.
Cocking her head to the side, Layla wasted no time, she was a confident woman who knew what she wanted.
From the moment she had entered the hall and spotted the olive-skinned young Italian, she had been hooked.
She had been thrilled to find out that he could be bid on.
Blaise stiffened as he felt a petite foot travel up his pant leg.
He made no effort to move, grinning he drained his drink and asked huskily, "Would you like to leave? We can order in."
She grabbed her clutch and stood up at once, smirking she replied, "I thought you would never ask."
Cho smoothed her light green dress and walked into the restaurant "Victoria Street" nervously looking around.
She had no idea who or what to expect.
The restaurant was filled with Muggles and steered clear of pretentiousness.
A familiar face, a handsome man walked confidently towards her.
His raven locks pulled back into a tight ponytail, an earring adorned one ear and his suit hung on him like a second skin.
Cho relaxed at once and inquired, "Michael Corner?"
He bent to give her a quick peck on the cheek, his strong aftershave surrounded her, "Cho! So good to see you."
"Did you bid on me?" she asked timidly, truly hoping he did.
Taking her hand, he led her over to their table.
He smiled shyly, "Yes I did."
Taking a seat, Cho reached over and held his hand and warmly replied, "Thank you."
Michael laughed softly and signalled a server.
Ernie tapped his foot nervously.
Dressed in a beige suit that matched his sandy coloured hair, he looked around the private dining area of The Gilbert Scott.
The aroma of delicious food and succulent meats made his mouth water.
His mother and her bright ideas. He truly hoped whoever it was not insufferable.
Ernie stared at the woman approaching his table, at once getting to his feet he pulled her into a tight hug.
"Susan Bones? Dear Merlin, is that you?" He muttered into her silky fine hair.
She cupped her ex-boyfriend's face and gushed, "It's so good to see you."
Taking her hand, he pulled out the chair for her and hurriedly took his seat across, "I have always wondered what happened to you."
Her face fell slightly at the slight reminder of the war, but regaining her composure she replied with a bright smile, "I've been living in Latvia."
Ernie stared at Susan, she was so soft and pretty.
He was tempted to touch her hand, perhaps later he would.
They ordered a bottle of red wine and spoke at great length about each other's lives.
Parvati apparated near the entrance of the fine dining restaurant Marcus. Dusting her blue short cocktail dress, she entered confidently.
The hostess showed her the way graciously and while walking up to her table, she thought of Blaise and smiled.
That was one date, she was looking most forward too.
Seamus buttoned his jacket and got to his feet.
They exchanged a quick friendly kiss and sat down.
"Well, your plan worked," Seamus laughed taking a sip of wine.
Parvati laughed along with him remembering their deal that he bid on her, "I guess it did."
They spoke about Seamus's new pub in Downtown London and the ball, she told him about Blaise and Seamus scrunched his face in dislike.
"A Slytherin? What is with our Gryffindor women and Slytherins? He asked in astonishment.
Giggling softly Parvati asked, "Have you seen the Slytherin men?"
Seamus frowned further and shock his head.
Pansy wore a tight black dress that stopped just above her knees, it had a plunging neckline that emphasized her breasts and small-cap sleeves held it together.
She walked into The Hyde oozing of confidence.
The fine-dining restaurant showcased the best in European cuisine with its menu of classic flavours and unique twists.
She looked around and clicked her fingers importantly summoning the hostess.
It was obvious that she was a regular patron because the Maître d' appeared and shooed the hostess away and courteously said, "Please follow me, Miss Parkinson."
Neville stood up as Pansy approached, sending his cutlery cluttering to the floor.
Pansy rolled her eyes.
Taking her seat, she locked stern but curious eyes with him and said, "No bloody way did a Gryffindor bid on me."
Neville blushed crimson and poured her a glass of red wine.
Pulling his seat closer to the table, he returned her look confidently and replied, "We are no longer at Hogwarts, I bid on a beautiful intelligent woman."
Pansy felt a smile creep up her lips, she took a gratifying sip of the rich red wine and said, "Keep talking Longbottom, I like where this is going."
Neville perked up and smiled.
Having arrived an hour earlier, Hermione and Draco showered and dressed.
His mood had steadily declined and she kept quiet hoping his irritation would soon pass.
Reaching up, Hermione adjusted Draco's tie the Muggle way and placed a quick kiss to his stone-cold stubborn lips.
He felt the Windsor knot under his fingers. It was perfect.
Walking into the room, Draco watched Hermione getting ready with growing resentment.
Unable to control himself, he spat out viciously, "Are you seriously going to wear that ridiculously low cut dress?"
Her blood-red dress was flattering and decent. It hugged her figure and stopped just under her knees. It was moderately cut allowing space for a lovely necklace.
Slipping on her black high heels, she stopped mid-task to stare at him.
"Go change Granger," Draco instructed sternly while fixing a cufflink.
Her hands on her hips, she cocked her head to the side and glared at him, "What the fuck are you on about?"
Hermione felt her temper rise to match his, "You have been having a go at me since the auction. It's not my fucking fault Ryan bid on me and bloody good thing he did."
He was being ridiculous, channelling his anger towards her.
Draco narrowed his eyes to slits and sneered, "What the hell did you say?"
Refusing to back down, she answered confidently, "We raised enough funds to further the studies of nearly seventy children."
Laughing maniacally, he replied angrily, "That does not mean you have to go looking like that."
Hermione matched his manic laughter and pointed at his suit, "I don't see you wearing a brown paper bag instead of your best suit."
Locking burning eyes with him, she asked accusingly, "Are you trying to impress her? I saw you having a bloody good time with her yesterday."
Turning away, Draco adjusted his cufflink so the snake eyes faced upwards, "Don't be daft Granger."
Sitting on the bed, she pulled her shoes towards her and shot back, "Then lay off me!"
Before he could stop himself he spat out maliciously, "Awfully defensive of the American fucktard all of a sudden. Developing feelings for him are we?"
Hermione threw Draco a look of utter disgust, "Argh, I can't look at you right now. I'm leaving."
Grabbing her earrings, she stuffed them into her clutch along with her wand.
He followed her to the living room and yelled, "Fine Granger but remind him if he touches you what will be coming his way."
Turning to face him, she replied, "Your fucking tie is crooked Malfoy."
He tried to look down and cursed, "Fuck."
Adjusting it, he softened his tone, and asked hopefully, "I'll see you later."
Desperate to make amends before they parted.
Her temper was out of control and she replied cruelly, "No you won't, I'm spending the night at my flat."
"Hermione…." Draco started to speak.
Pulling out her wand, she cut him off, "You have yourself a bloody fantastic night."
"Wanker," she muttered under her breath and left before he could say anything else.
"Fuck!" He cursed aloud and threw a book hard against the wall.
This was not how he planned on parting for the night.
Draco looked around him waiting for his bloody mystery bidder to show up.
Craft London was not only one of the best restaurants in Muggle London but it came with an amazing view.
The modern design of the restaurant paid homage to British textiles from tweed to limestone.
He was busy fiddling with his mobile when a small cough interrupted him.
In his hurry to get up the phone fell to the ground and he hit his head on the table trying to retrieve it.
"Merlin, are you alright?" She asked in concern.
His eyes watery with pain, he quickly put on a brave face, "Yes I'm fine."
Inwardly he cursed himself for looking like a complete prat.
His vision blurry through the tears, he delicately wiped them off and she came into full view.
A lovely raven-haired woman stood before him.
"Tracey? Tracey Davis?" Draco questioned in disbelief.
She smiled brightly and spread her arms out and said, "In the flesh."
Quickly closing the distance, he dropped to give her a quick peck on the cheek and held out the chair for her to sit.
They sat across each other and stared at each other not knowing what to say.
Never in a million years would he have guessed Tracey Davis, stepsister to Astoria Greengrass.
Draco signalled a waiter and they placed their order for drinks.
Clearing his throat he said, "This is a surprise."
Tracey laughed, "Clearly," and then added seriously, "I'm in London for a few weeks and biding on you seemed like the smart thing to do at the time."
Draco laughed goodheartedly and replied, "It is brilliant to see you."
He tried to think back to when he had seen her last, "I can't recall the last time..."
She interrupted him, "Hogsmeade sixth year, we kissed under the Mistletoe and Astoria flipped out, yelled at me for stealing her man and all but dragged you off in the middle of our date."
Draco roared with laughter, "Bloody hell I remember that."
Their drinks arrived and they clinked glasses.
"So what have you been doing?" Draco asked curiously taking a sip off his scotch.
She moved her chair closer.
Tracey sipped her chilled white wine and replied happily, "I'm a Muggle Marine Biologist."
He nodded his head approvingly and said, "That is impressive."
Taking another sip, she asked, "And you?"
Smirking he replied, "Businessman."
Her soft laughter filled the space, "How original Malfoy."
Putting his hands up in defeat, he answered, "I have a knack for it."
Signalling the server, they placed their order.
His thoughts went to Hermione, he was worried about how she was fairing.
They way they parted disturbed him, mentally he made a note to make it up to her later.
Their food arrived and the rich aroma of delicious food tickled their senses as they tucked in.
Delicately forking a piece of carrot off her plate, Tracey asked, "Are you seeing someone? I know it's not Tori."
Draco cut his steak into bite-sized pieces, "I am seeing someone."
She looked into his eyes, "So the rumours are true then."
Raising an eyebrow, he asked curiously, "What rumours would those be?
Tracey leaned back comfortably and reached for her fourth glass of wine, "The one where you are dating Hermione Granger."
Dabbing the corners of his mouth, Draco replied confidently, "For once the Prophet has got its facts in order."
Continuing to eye him with interest, she muttered, "That is interesting."
"How so?" Draco asked, wondering what she was getting at.
Tracey shifted uncomfortably wishing she had kept her mouth shut but Draco was waiting for her to answer.
Gathering her courage, she said, "I heard she married Theo."
Draco stiffened and quickly drained his drink, wetting his suddenly dry lips, he answered, "She did, he passed away nearly two years ago."
Reaching over, she tenderly placed her hand over his gently rubbing his knuckles and said, "I'm such an idiot, I'm so sorry Draco."
Slowly, he withdrew his hand from under hers and replied, "Don't worry about it."
An awkward silence followed.
"She was an amazing girl back at school," Tracey complimented Hermione.
Draco felt his eyes glaze overfondly, "Nothing has changed, she's even more brilliant now."
Tracey studied his face, "You really love her, don't you?
He smiled and replied, "Yes I do," and then asked, "What about you?"
Twirling her fork around the pasta, she answered amused, "Oh, I'm living the single life, I'm away a lot mostly at sea and things."
"Well any bloke would be lucky to have you," he told her without much thought chewing on a piece of steak.
Tracey blushed and looked at Draco through lowered eyelashes.
The minute Hermione came into view Ryan was on his feet.
He pulled out a chair and she sat down looking at him weirdly.
"What are you playing at Ryan?" Hermione asked flatly, crossing her arms across her chest.
Calling a server over, he asked perplexed, "What do you mean?"
Throwing her arms wide, she gestured to their table and soft candlelight, "All this."
He picked a bottle of expensive red wine from the list and the server nodded before disappearing to bring them the bottle.
Ryan shrugged, "It was a charity event, I placed a bid and won, what is the big deal?"
Her throat scratchy, she took a drink of water to lubricate it.
The server arrived with the bottle and skillfully uncorked it and poured a glass.
Ryan swirled it around his glass expertly and took a delicate sip.
Nodding his approval, he dismissed the server.
Hermione watched in interest.
Seriously, who the bloody hell was this man?
First, he drops forty thousand Galleons at the bid and she knew an Auror made nowhere near enough to save up that amount to just donate away.
Now he sniffed and sipped wine like a true connoisseur.
Ryan poured her a glass of wine, the liquid splashed around the large balloon glass and he said proudly, "It is a wonderful thing you are doing. I donate to a lot of charity events back home."
He mentioned a few projects.
For the first time since meeting Ryan, Hermione was impressed.
She had heard of them.
Opening the beautifully printed menu, he asked, "So what's good here?"
The Petrus was a Michelin star fine dining restaurant that served the best French Cuisine known to London.
Following suit, she shrugged, "I've not been here before."
Ryan studied the area and nodded impressed, "It is quite fancy, isn't it?"
Settling on mainly chicken entrée, Hermione replied, "Yes, it is a bit much for my liking."
Quick to answer, he confidently asked, "We can go somewhere else if you like."
Smiling Hermione reminded him, "We can't, it's in the contract."
Hesitating, Ryan added sarcastically, "I'm surprised your boyfriend did not tag along."
Hermione frowned, she hated the way she had left. Draco was in her blood, she missed him already.
Picking up her glass, she replied bitterly, "He's at his charity dinner."
"Oh, that's right. Sexy woman bid on him," he retorted smugly.
Biting back a nasty retort, Hermione asked angrily, "Are you trying to upset me?"
Ryan hid a laugh, his eyes bore into hers as he said, "You can do better than him."
Rolling her eyes, she shot back, "And I suppose you think you are better."
He raised his glass, "Without a doubt."
Changing the topic, she asked with interest, "How's the case going?"
Smiling triumphantly, he replied excitedly, "Great, one more bastard to go, the teams are already closing in on him."
Locking eyes with her, he said, "I'll be out of your hair soon."
She forked a piece of red cabbage and smiled, "Hmm….good."
His tone softened longingly, "Admit it, you will miss me."
Hermione replied at once, "Not even a little."
Staring into his wine glass, a slight edge to his voice, he said, "The best part of this trip has been you."
Bringing his face up to meet her gaze, Ryan continued, "I have never met a woman that infuriates me, challenges me and makes me want her as much as you."
Hermione stopped eating and dropped her fork with a clatter.
"I'm sorry but that that is how I feel, I cannot help it," he said taking in her surprised look.
She continued to stare at him, seeing him a different light.
Signalling the waiter, he ordered another bottle of wine, "I know Justin has spoken to you but I want to as well."
Her curiosity spiked, "What are you talking about?"
Reaching across the table, he took her hand in his, "Join us in Washington or New York, you are wasted here. You have so much potential."
She took her hand from under his and played with the napkin on her lap, "I can't leave, my whole world is here."
Ryan glared and asked, "If by the world you mean Malfoy."
Hermione felt her temper rise, "To a part, yes I do."
He scoffed and laughed sarcastically, "You have no idea do you?"
Leaning forward, the candlelight illuminated her face, she asked curiously, "What are you talking about?"
He leaned forward, his face inches away from hers, "You and him, how others look at the two of you."
Hermione sighed, she had a vague idea of the gossip that circulated among the more prominent witches and wizards.
"Darling, they have nothing nice to say about you or your relationship," he drawled in his American accent.
Narrowing her eyes suspiciously, she asked, "How would you know?"
He laughed, "I'm a fucking Auror. I see things, hear things that others don't."
Looking around, he whispered, "I was at the event for a sole reason."
Without waiting for him to finish, Hermione spat out, "To spy."
Ryan motioned for her to keep her voice down and replied, "Yes, to spy, Kingsley believes purebloods are helping the uprising in America."
Hermione rolled her eyes in disgust, "Wouldn't be the first time they stood with the dark side."
He nodded and added, "They believe you have tricked Malfoy like the way you did your late husband."
Blind rage took over and she cried angrily, "WHAT?"
Ryan seemed genuinely upset, "I'm sorry."
"What else?" Hermione hissed out of the corner of her mouth.
"I rather not go into details but there's no life for you here," he told her frankly.
Hermione stared at him, listening, taking in everything he said.
Sneering he continued, "Your precious Death Eater will have no choice but to end his relationship with you. The other pureblood families will not allow the Malfoys to soil their blood with a Muggleborn witch."
Feeling the bile rise, she muttered, "Please stop talking."
He reached over and took her hand again, lacing his fingers through hers.
"I implore you to take this offer," Ryan pleaded desperately.
She pulled her hand out from under his roughly and firmly said, "No!"
He homed in for the kill. "You are not a succubus!"
Her eyes widened in shock, her voice broke as she asked, "They called me that?"
Ryan nodded, he had not meant to tell her everything, but she was in bitter denial.
"If you ever change your mind, you know where to find us," he informed her affectionately.
Hermione clutched her head, she felt the room spin dangerously.
After composing herself, she rose and Ryan held her coat out for her.
Carefully she slipped into it.
They stepped out of the restaurant and the cool crisp air hit their face, settling on their noses.
Hugging the coats tightly to their bodies, they stood staring at the ramble of passing cars.
Turning to Hermione, Ryan asked, "Do you want to get a drink?
As much as her head said no, she overruled it and nodded in agreement.
He smiled brightly and took her hand firmly in his and inquired, "Muggle or Wizard pub?
Hermione returned the smile and answered, "Muggle please."
Ryan took out his wand and waved it.
They disappeared into the night.
Draco laughed at a joke Tracy cracked.
The server arrived with their dessert.
She swallowed a mouthful of chocolate and closed her eyes in enjoyment.
Scooping a hefty portion, she pointed it towards Draco, "You have to try this chocolate pudding, it's so good."
Before he could react she shoved the spoon into his mouth and fed him.
He licked his lips, "That is wickedly good."
Tracey smiled and licked the spoon clean, "You know I am enjoying myself."
Draco smiled, "Me too. I was bloody shitting myself wondering who the fuck bid on me."
She bit her lip innocently, "You want to get a drink after?"
Flashing his signature grin, he agreed, "Sure, I'm game."
They sat at the Muggle bar, the stools were comfortable, and the Irish themed pub was dark, dingy but inviting.
Hermione opted for a rum and Ryan stuck with beer.
"I have to ask," she turned to him.
A Muggle bumped into him and he split his beer, glaring at the Muggle Ryan composed himself and said, "Ask away."
"How did you drop forty thousand Galleons at the auction?" Hermione asked looking him over.
Ryan laughed, the noise of the bar drowned it out, "It's family money, my parents own a lucrative ranch in Texas."
They had a few drinks and for once Ryan was not being an enormous prat.
Looking at her watch, she said, "It's getting late."
He reached for his wallet but she stopped him.
Pulling out her clutch, she smiled, "Drinks are on me."
Reluctantly, he placed the wallet inside his coat pocket.
Taking her arm, Ryan navigated Hermione out of the crowded pub and said, "Come on, I'll see you home and get lost."
Outside her flat, she turned to him with the key in hand, "I had a good time. See what you can accomplish when you aren't being a complete arsehole?"
Ryan laughed and bent down to kiss her cheek.
He lingered for longer than necessary pressing her body closer to hers.
Hermione stepped back quickly, "Well goodnight."
Sighing, Ryan replied, "Goodnight."
Once inside, she tossed her clutch on to the couch and plopped down.
Pulling out her phone, she fought the urge to text or call Draco.
He had sent her one text.
I love you very much Granger, I miss you already.
She looked at the time of the message, it was nearly two hours ago.
Frowning, Hermione tossed it aside, walked into the bathroom and ran the bathtub full of water adding her bath salts.
"Four shots Tom," Draco yelled over the noise.
Tracey laughed, "Last ones Malfoy or you will be carrying me home."
He laughed out loud.
They downed the tequila shots in record time.
Deciding to call it a night, they stepped out of the Leaky Cauldron.
Tipsy as fuck, the cold air hit them straight in the face and Tracey doubled over almost throwing up.
Draco helped her up and she slurred, "I need to get back to my empty hotel room. Care to join me?"
She reached up to kiss him but he quickly offered his pale cheek.
"Trace…" Draco muttered and held her at a distance before adding, "Hermione is my everything."
Tracey slapped her head hard, embarrassed she mumbled, "Of course I know, I'm sorry."
Taking her hand, he smiled sympathetically, "Come on let's get you to the Ritz."
She led him to her floor and they stood outside her room.
Tracey Davis was drunk, she squinted her eyes and rummaged through her small clutch for the key.
When she failed to find it, Draco took the bag and searched for it.
While he searched, she leaned against the wall and fought the urge to vomit.
Draco held up the key victoriously and opened the door.
She stumbled over the entrance, dragging him in with her.
Not noticing that they had been followed, Draco helped Tracey inside.
She was drunk and he was a gentleman.
Despite the alarm bells in his head, he helped her against his better judgement.
She fell onto the bed, her body sprawled awkwardly on top of the sheets and he watched as she snuggled into the many pillows.
Locking flirtatious eyes with him, she patted the spot next to her.
Draco smirked and took out his wand.