I loved everyone's input on the previous chapter! It is really appreciated especially the different viewpoints.
THANK YOU FOR ALL THE COMMENTS! :)
Every couple faces their share of problems and misunderstandings.
This chapter is a bit angsty and intense but also carries a beautiful memory.
Enjoy Chapter Twenty-Two!
Let me know your thoughts so far! Trust me, it helps loads! :) Stay safe beautiful people!
HAPPY READING! :)
Draco lay on his stomach, fast asleep, his arm over the side of the bed, fingers lightly brushing the floor.
His chest moved with deep content breathing, strands of hair fell carelessly across his face.
The soft buzz of a vibrating mobile penetrated his deep slumber.
He stirred disoriented, his body felt sore with use and his head throbbed.
The mobile buzzed relentlessly.
Cursing, eyes closed he reached to where he had left it.
Knocking the lampshade clumsily over in the process, he answered disgruntled.
"HAVE YOU SEEN THE PROPHET?" Blaise bellowed from the other end.
Draco groaned, and held the phone away from his ear and hissed, "I'm still asleep arsehole."
"You better get your arse up Draco, there's a blown-up picture of you going into Tracey's hotel room," Blaise informed him urgently.
Draco's eyes snapped open, he was wide awake.
"WHAT?" he roared at his best friend in utter disbelief.
Kicking the sheets off, he jumped off the bed
Phone in hand he ran at breakneck speed to the kitchen and quickly picked up the paper Dotty had left out for him.
The small house elf cleaned the kitchen and tutted disapprovingly.
He tore off the band and stared at the headline.
DAVIS AND MALFOY PAINT THE TOWN RED.
Charity Auction Exclusive. See page 7 for pictures and further details.
Tracey Davis and Draco Malfoy briefly dated in Hogwarts and the duo seem keen to rekindle their relationship.
What does war heroine Hermione Granger Nott have to say about this?
Malfoy and Nott spotted getting cosy at the Masquerade Ball.
Tracey Davis might want to watch her back.
We look forward to following this new wizarding love triangle.
A blown-up picture of him going inside Tracey's room was the highlight of the front page and right next to it was a smaller picture of him kissing Hermione.
With the caption - Happy ending? It carried a sly innuendo.
Fuck, shit...
Draco groaned, the phone still in hand, he forgot Blaise was still connected.
His voice made him jump, "What the fuck did you do last night?"
He massaged the bridge of his nose, "Trace got drunk, I helped her get back to the room."
The memory came rushing back as did the bile rising from his stomach.
Drunk, she had flopped down on the large bed and propositioned him. Smiling at her, he had pulled out his wand, waved goodbye and apparated home at once.
No bloody way was he going to sit down or be in that room for a minute longer than required.
He knew his good deed would come back to bite him in the arse.
He looked at the picture again and frowned.
Fuck, it looked bad, it looked really bad.
Idiot, idiot, idiot
Blaise roared with laughter, "Granger is going to fucking kill you."
Draco threw his head back and growled.
Dotty jumped in fear, the small elf dropped the rag she was holding in alarm.
FUCK…..
Hermione….
Cutting the call, he made a mad dash to the bathroom.
He had to get to her fast.
Hermione stared at the Prophet and then stared some more.
She held the paper at a safe distance, treating it like a disease and twisted it at angles to analyze the pictures further.
The blood in her veins turned ice-cold, a shudder ran down her spine and she held onto the kitchen counter to support herself.
Picture 1 - Laughing, ok innocent enough no problem.
Picture 2 - Touching his hand over the table, crossing a line but still fine not a big deal.
Picture 3 - Feeding him chocolate pudding, jealously, possessive, so far past the line, it was no longer visible.
Picture 4 - Going inside her hotel room, blackened murderous rage, everything bathed in red. She was going to kill them both.
Please no, it could not be true.
Draco would never hurt her like this.
Unbearable searing pain tore through her.
The paper still in her hands, she crushed it furiously.
Her head throbbed and she held onto the kitchen counter to support herself.
The phone rang, a popular Muggle song filled the small space.
Reaching over with trembling hands, she flipped it open and pressed the button.
"Calm down," came Ginny's concerned voice.
Hermione laughed hysterically, "Oh I'm fucking calm."
She picked up a lethal-looking knife, "Calm enough to run this knife through his cheating heart."
Awkward silence.
"You don't know if he cheated," Harry's gently voice cut through the tension.
They had put her on speaker.
Grinding her teeth together, she hissed, "Not everyone is a fucking saint like you Harry."
Harry took a deep breath and said, "Hermione, be rational."
She eyed the knife, her reflection visible on the blade, "Fuck being rational."
Ginny tried again, trying to keep her voice steady, "Calm down Mi, let him explain."
Hermione laughed again and cried, "You fucking calm down, if this was Harry we would be searching for body parts all over England."
Stepping back from the phone, Ginny stifled a laugh and Harry shushed her.
Composing herself, Ginny replied, "Fair enough darling but give the man a chance to explain why the fuck he thought it would be a good idea to go inside that cow's room."
Harry frowned at his wife's choice of words.
There was a spot on the knife, that would not do.
Going over to the sink, she ran the knife under the cool water and spat out in blackened rage, "A better reason than sticking his cock in her."
"He loves you, Hermione," Harry told her confidently.
"Of course, I do," came the reply from behind her.
Turning around at once, Hermione narrowed her eyes to slits, her chest heaving with the rapid intake of air.
Through clenched teeth, she spat, flecks of rabid spit flew out, "Get the fuck out of my flat Malfoy."
Draco eyed the knife with caution and carefully said, "Put the knife down darling."
Putting his hands up in surrender, he closed the distance between them slowly.
"Darling? Oh, I'm not your fucking darling," she shouted at him and threw the Prophet at his face.
It hit his chest and fell to the floor in a crumpled mess.
Her eyes deadly, she yelled, "LOVE TRIANGLE? TRACEY CAN HAVE YOU BECAUSE I WANT NOTHING TO DO WITH YOU."
Closing his eyes, Draco took in everything she threw at him.
He deserved every word but it hurt just the same.
Firmly grasping onto the phone, she asked, "Ginny can I come over?"
Ginny and Harry exchanged looks of concern and replied, "Er...yes of course."
Letting out an exasperated sigh, Harry sternly said, "Talk to Malfoy first Hermione and then come over."
Staring at Draco's face in disgust, she replied, "I have nothing to say to this two-timing, promise-breaking..."
She struggled to find the last word
"Slytherin?" Ginny offered at once and Harry rolled his eyes.
Hermione let out a sigh of relief, "Thank you...SLYTHERIN."
Draco stood rooted to the spot. His eyes pleading with her.
"Hermione…" he started to say but she cut him off with her hand.
Walking over, she grabbed her wand.
Realizing what his fiery witch was about to do, he closed the distance between them fast and put his arms around her holding her captive against his chest.
He kissed the top of her head and pleaded desperately, "Please love, let me explain."
The call still connected, Ginny whispered to Harry, "Should we listen?"
Taking the phone from his wife's hand, he firmly said, "No, of course not."
Ginny pouted, "But I really want to."
Harry shook his head and cut the call.
Draco cupped Hermione's face, his eyes looking into hers, imploring her to listen and understand.
Her eyes filled with tears and spilt over.
The sound of her loud sobs echoed through the flat.
"Why Draco?" she asked him over and over.
I love you, why did you sleep with her?
He gathered her to him again and told her firmly, "Nothing happened my love."
I could never hurt you like that.
The tears kept coming, her heart felt like it was breaking into a thousand pieces.
Her fingers dug into his white t-shirt, clawing at the cloth.
"What were you doing inside her room Draco?" she managed to ask between the sobs
They slid to the ground, his hands soothingly rubbed her back, "Shhh baby please don't cry."
Hermione tried in vain to compose herself and control the flood of emotions that kept coming.
She placed her palms against his chest and gave a hard push but he was too strong.
Draco held onto her tightly, pleading for her to listen to him.
She put all her strength and pushed him back, losing balance he stumbled backwards and Hermione got to her feet.
He rose next and reached for her.
Purposely, she stepped back and stared at him through tear-stained eyelids.
"Hermione….please," Draco whispered miserably.
"I can't look at you," she told him in anguish, clutching her heaving chest.
"Nothing happened," he repeated slowly.
He would keep repeating it for as long as she needed.
"She's nobody, just an old friend," he added weakly.
Her eyes clouded over with anger and she spat, "I know who the fuck Tracey Davis is Malfoy."
He tried miserably to hold her but she pulled away in disgust.
"Please don't touch me Draco," she told him viciously.
The pain spreading throughout her body was too much to bear.
"I helped her to her room because she was drunk," Draco explained further hoping to appease her anger and restore the trust he had lost in seconds.
Hermione stopped dead in her tracks and spun around to face him, hair falling wildly around her face.
Eyeing him suspiciously, she asked slowly, "How the hell did she get drunk?"
Draco swallowed and replied, "We went to the Leaky Cauldron for drinks after."
"Oh, did you? Great," she turned on her heel and walked quickly into the bedroom.
Reaching for tennis shoes, she sat down on her bed and put them on, "I want you to leave."
He stood his ground and stared at her, "No, I'm not going anywhere until we talk about this."
"I don't have a bloody thing to say to you," Hermione shot back standing up.
He grabbed her by the shoulders and looked into her pained face, "Please, believe me, I would never cheat on you."
Breaking free from his grasp, Hermione took a step back and said, "I want you to leave Draco before I do something we both regret."
His breathing hitched at her meaning and he slowly shook his head, "You don't mean that."
Clutching her head in pain, she screamed, "Please I'm begging you. GET OUT!"
Tears filled his grey orbs, blurring the colour in them.
Taking out his wand reluctantly, he waved it and disappeared.
She backed away, her legs gave out and she fell onto the bed.
Hands in her laps, she stared at her palms and the tears that fell into them pooling in the middle.
Why the hell was she wearing shoes?
Taking them off, she tossed them violently across the room and tore the clothes from her body while running to the bathroom.
She crumpled in her tub and let the heavy sobs consume her.
Hugging her legs to her chest, the water relentlessly washed over her trembling body.
The cries bounced off the tub muffled only by the steady stream of water.
His feet touched the ground, head in his hands, he fell on to the bed they shared night after night.
How could he have been this stupid?
No good deed goes unpunished.
Please my love...
I'm sorry...
Tracey had been perfectly decent up until she got a few drinks in her.
He ran his fingers through his hair.
The throbbing returned and he wracked his brains for a solution.
The breakfast table at Greengrass Manor was quiet except the sound of silverware against china plates.
Reaching over Astoria pulled the Prophet towards her.
She saw her mother glance in the direction of her father, they exchanged a grave look.
The front page jumped out and she shot out of her seat involuntarily.
"Sit down and finish your breakfast," her mother instructed firmly.
Her chest heaving, she read the article and then read it again.
Tracey? What the absolute fuck?
Astoria fought the urge to swear in front of her parents.
Inwardly a storm was brewing, she had to speak to her dear stepsister.
The fucking bitch, how dare she go after Draco.
Hurriedly finishing breakfast, she excused herself politely and ran to her room.
Pulling out her mobile, Astoria searched for Tracey's number and pressed the button.
Phone at her ear, she paced around the room impatiently.
Pick up you bloody bint.
Five rings later, the call connected.
"Trace?" Astoria cried.
Silence and then a swift answer, "Nothing happened Tori so don't get your knickers in a fucking twist."
Hand on her hip, Astoria demanded, "How did he end up in your fucking room?"
Tracey laughed and shot back, "That is none of your bloody business, do us all a favour little sister and focus on your fiance."
The line went dead and Astoria stared at the screen in fury.
There was no love lost between the two stepsisters.
Naked and water dripping, Hermione walked around the room and sat down at the dressing table.
Opening her jewellery box, she fished out a silver ring and slipped it on. At once her thumb started to twirl the small ring around.
Aimlessly wandering around the flat, Hermione settled by the window, looking out into the sea of building tops that littered the view.
She twirled the ring relentlessly until it hurt and made her skin raw.
Tiny beads of blood appeared but she paid no heed to it.
The compulsion was back with vengeance.
It soothe her, it helped her to focus.
She fought the urge to sleep.
The minute she closed her eyes, they appeared before her.
Naked bodies writhing bathed in sweat, names being moaned.
Draco calling out another name.
Hermione clutched the sides of her head and rocked back and forth.
Did he not love her?
Had they not been through enough?
Her fingers shivered, the blood in her veins turned cold.
Pangs of hunger twisted her stomach, she pushed it away forcefully pulling up her jumper.
His quidditch jumper
His smell
The tears came again.
Calls went unanswered.
Draco had called no less than thirty times.
Narcissa frowned at the headline and front page.
Disappointed with her son's behaviour, she massaged the bridge of her nose.
The boy needed a good talking to. His conduct was unacceptable.
She debated whether to speak with Draco and then the Prophet.
The bloody vultures at the Prophet had no business running such a rancid article.
"Harry, should we check on Mi?" Ginny asked desperately, shuddering at the memory of Hermione lying in a pool of her blood.
He looked up from the paper and locked eyes with his worried wife, he knew what Ginny was subtly trying to say.
Harry reached for his tea and took a large gulp, "Have you tried calling her?"
Ginny's brow creased in worry and she nodded, "Over five times."
They locked worried glances and Harry said, "I'll go over in a bit."
Relaxing Ginny took her cup and her husbands to the sink.
Draco threw his phone hard in frustration.
It hit the couch and split open, the battery falling out.
Groaning at his stupidity, he assembled it and tried called her again
The worry was eating away at him. She was prone to do unpredictable things.
His blood ran cold at the memory of her almost lifeless body on the floor.
He was losing his bloody mind.
Deciding to give her another half an hour, he picked up a green apple and bit into it hard.
The juice from the apple erupted around his mouth and dribbled down his chin.
Hermione tossed and turned, unable to sleep, she felt the sudden rush of bile up her throat and into her mouth.
The pillows and cover fell to the floor in her hurry to make it to the bathroom in time.
She barely made it, flecks of vomit littered the bathroom floor as she held on to the commode and vomited violently.
The sound of apparation pierced the sounds of her retching.
The door flung open and Draco strode to her side at once.
He ran his fingers down her hair soothingly and asked with growing concern, "Darling, what's wrong?"
For the past forty-eight hours, she had barely had a cup of tea.
Lack of food had made her weak
Weakly she pushed him aside.
Her skin pale with lack of nourishment.
He paced around the room impatiently, waiting for her to come out.
Wiping her mouth, she stumbled and Draco caught her easily.
His eyes wide with worry, he kissed the top of her head and pleaded, "Talk to me, Granger."
Weakly, Hermione pushed him away and went to sit on her bed, "I have nothing to say, I'm tired."
Staring into her in alarm, he asked quickly, "When did you last eat?"
"Why are you here?" she asked with as much contempt as she could muster.
"Because I love you," Draco replied at once and asked firmly, "Hermione answer me, when did you last eat?"
She shrugged and tried to lie down, "I'm not hungry."
Scooping her up, he took her into the living room, placing her on the couch, he hurriedly opened the fridge.
There were no signs of prepared food.
Quickly making a cup of hot milk tea, he held it out to her, "Drink it please but slowly."
The smell enticed her, taking the hot beverage she took a sip and leaned against the couch.
He could hardly bear it.
Draco sat down next to Hermione and through a strained voice asked, "Can I stay?"
She stared out of the window, "I don't want you in my bed."
That hurt him, it pricked his heart uncomfortably.
Nodding solemnly, he added, "I'll sleep on the couch."
Continuing to look out the window at the pigeons flying around in the dark, she muttered, "If that is your wish."
Out of the corner of her eye, she watched him roughly fluff the cushions and take off his pants.
In his boxers, he laid down on the plush couch and stared at the ceiling, his arm casually under his head.
Hermione stared at him and then switching off the light she padded barefoot into her room.
Slipping back the covers, she slid in and stared at the ceiling herself.
Love was unimaginable pain.
Hours passed and she still stared unblinkingly at the ceiling.
Knowing he was asleep on her couch, his long frame curled uncomfortably was disturbing to her.
Slowing without bothering with the lights, she walked over to the couch and stood over him.
Half his body was spilling over the couch, in his deep slumber, he would roll right off the edge and fall to the ground.
He snored lightly, platinum locks across his forehead.
Gently brushing it away, Hermione turned to leave but a hand grasped her wrist and she fell backwards onto his lap.
Draco held her tight around the middle, his lips at her neck kissing the soft skin, making her come alive under his touch.
Hermione moaned, she felt his erection press through her nightdress.
Breaking out of his grasp, she stood up and purposely walked away.
With a heavy heart, he watched her walk into the room and close the door.
He rubbed his cock, adjusting it willing the hardness to subside.
The first rays of sunlight hit his face directly.
Groaning and miserable, Draco got up and stretched.
His back ached from the awkward sleeping position.
He looked towards the room, the door was firmly closed.
Sighing, he got up and headed towards the kitchen to get breakfast started.
Hermione hardly got in sleep, she continued to stare at the ceiling.
The brightness that seeped into her room told her it was a new day.
Pushing herself off the bed, she grabbed a towel and headed towards the bathroom.
The loud clattering of falling pans made her head turn towards the kitchen.
She smiled as she pictured Draco bent over trying to look for the pan.
The cool water felt glorious, it washed over her skin making every nerve ending come to life.
Squeezing a generous portion of body wash onto her loofah, she ran the soft material along her body, leaving no place untouched.
Moving between her thighs, she ached for the man in the kitchen.
His hands, the swollen red lips, touching and caressing her body.
A whimper escaped her lips and she quickly pushed the feelings away.
She would not give in so easily.
Dressed, attaching an earring Hermione strode into the kitchen in extra high heels.
Draco looked her over, she looked professionally stunning and immensely fuckable.
Not that she would let him touch her in her current state of epic pissedofness.
Turning around, he placed a plate with an omelette and a cup of tea in front of her.
Smiling, he said, "I made you breakfast."
She eyed the plate and replied, "Thank you but I'm not hungry."
Ignoring Draco, Hermione busied herself with the files she needed to take to the Ministry.
Frowning, he interrupted her task, "What did you last eat?"
She continued her task paying him no attention.
Draco went to stand behind her, Hermione shivered at the hot breath on the side of her neck.
"Please talk to me," he whispered into her ear, dropping to kiss her earlobe.
His arm went around her waist, pulling her towards his body he placed lingering kisses to her neck.
Long fingers travelled down her blouse unbuttoning the stubborn buttons.
Her chest heaved with his actions, a moan escaped through her parted lips.
His hand slipped inside her bra and freed a delectable mound, teasing the hardening nipple.
Stop she wanted to say but her body was betraying her.
He turned her to face him, hands on her thighs his fingers inched closer to her growing wetness.
When their lips touched, she froze and tried to push him away.
"Let me go, I'll be late for work," Hermione muttered weakly.
Frustrated, Draco took a step back.
Pointedly looking at the clock, he narrowed his eyes and said, "It's barely eight am."
Ignoring his piercing gaze, she buttoned up and adjusted her blouse, "I have a meeting with Ryan."
It was petty and cruel but also the truth, she did have a meeting with him.
Draco's eyes darkened, "What the fuck does he want?"
This time, she stared into his face and replied angrily, "None of your business."
His tone deadly, "Say that again Granger."
Refusing to back down, she enunciated each word, "None of your fucking business."
His temper spiked and he snarled, "Had a good time at dinner?"
Smiling sarcastically, she mused, "Not as good as you."
Throwing his hands up in the air, he growled exasperatedly, "Nothing fucking happened. I helped a drunk woman inside. What the fuck would you have me do? Leave her on the street."
Matching his anger, Hermione placed her hands on her slim hips and cried, "Ryan took me out for drinks but he did not step a foot inside this flat."
Draco widened his eyes, the greyness in his eyes turned into a solid black, "You went to a pub with him after dinner?"
Defiantly, she held his look and said, "Yes I did."
Again with these bloody double standards. So it was ok for him but not her? Fucking bullshit.
He advanced on her and she stood her ground.
Leaning closer to her face, he sneered, "Is that why you were so keen not to meet that night?"
That was it. Her anger reached its peak, it washed over her petite frame and came to rest behind her fiery brown orbs.
She cocked her head to one side and let a cruel smile curve her lips, "Of course, I went over to his hotel room and we fucked till I screamed his name."
Closing her eyes, she moaned mockingly.
Draco stumbled backwards, his breathing jagged it painfully increased.
His lips quivered, he ran his tongue along the bottom lip moisturizing the sudden dryness.
Hands balled into fists and vibrated with the anger running through his blood.
Their naked bodies swam in front of his eyes.
Her legs around another man, her lips on his chest.
He closed his eyes shut, willing it to go away.
The pain in his head increased and he felt soft hands hold onto his wrists pulling them away from his temple.
He slowly opened her eyes to see her staring at his face intently.
Without hesitation, he grabbed the back of her head and smashed his lips with hers.
Taken back, Hermione sank into the kiss, holding his head to hers pushing her tongue against his eagerness.
She had taken it too far. Way too far.
He was panting and grunting against her, his urgent need evident through the hardness in his boxers.
Gently, she broke away from the kiss and ran a finger across a swollen lip.
Breathing hard, Draco placed his forehead against hers and asked, "Will I see you after work?"
There was an edge to his voice.
"I am working late today," she muttered.
His face fell with disappointment.
"Granger, I love you," Draco whispered, softly kissing her lips.
Purposely, Hermione stepped out of his embrace.
Raising her voice she stated, "This has nothing to do with love. You went inside her room Draco, Merlin knows what happened inside but you have blasted my trust to hell."
Closing her eyes, she slowly added, "Stop smothering me, I want some time for myself instead of having you breathing down my neck every second."
Draco grabbed Hermione by the shoulders and bellowed, "NOTHING HAPPENED, I WOULD NEVER CHEAT ON YOU."
"Why you would even indulge a woman you've not met in years is beyond me," she retorted painfully.
He let go and took a step back.
How could he explain that it meant nothing, that it was equivalent or less to having a pint with Blaise?
Tracey meant fucking nothing.
Draco watched Hermione leave with a heavy heart.
Arriving at the Ministry, she smoothed her skirt and jogged up the stairs.
Fetching her spectacles, Hermione slipped them on and sat at her desk.
The rustling of robes distracted her and she looked up from the untidy clutter of papers.
Ryan leaned casually against the door, the Ministry was hauntingly quiet a few early-bird workers scattered the offices but it was too early for the full workforce to be present.
He walked in and placed a tall plastic cup of Muggle coffee on her table.
"Drink it," he mused. Rolling his eyes, he added, "How you survive only on tea truly baffles me."
Hermione eyed the cup suspiciously, "It's not poisoned, is it?"
Ryan laughed aloud and took the seat across her.
Reluctantly, she took a sip and sighed.
He watched her face relax, pointing at the cup he stated, "There is caramel and an extra pump of chocolate in that. It's the best pick me up after your boyfriend cheats on you.
Hermione slammed the cup hard on the table and glared at the smug American.
Sneering she said, "You are positively giddy."
He shrugged, "I told you he was no good for you."
Shaking her head, Hermione shot back confidently, "Draco would never cheat on me."
Ryan laughed again, "Whatever helps you sleep at night sweetheart."
Leaning forward, his eyes lustful, he whispered, "He has a dick, she's pretty hot...it probably happened, make your peace with it."
Hermione was furious, "I trust him."
Again he laughed, mocking her, "Yet here you are with me at this ungodly hour."
Ignoring his effort to rile her up, she pointed at the files and said, "Shall we get started?"
Ryan nodded a smile plastered on his face.
Pushing her glasses further up the bridge of her nose, she asked. "By the way, is Justin back?"
Cocking his head to the side, he locked eyes with and retorted, "Looking for revenge sex? I would be happy to oblige."
Hermione ground her teeth together and glared at the vile man sitting across her.
He drank his coffee and stifled a hearty laugh.
Smacking his lips, Ryan answered. "He's back tomorrow."
Looking over the woman in front, her nose buried in papers, he smiled and pulled the files closest and opened them.
They went through each detail, he was as meticulous as she was.
It was a refreshing change.
At half-past nine, Brenda strode into the office with a bouquet of roses larger than her small frame.
Ryan groaned and muttered, "Damn, he's pathetic."
Giving her a final look of disgust, he stormed out of the room.
Hermione took the bouquet and inhaled deeply. The smell of fresh roses filled her space pleasantly.
Smiling, she picked the card resting on top.
I love you. Always yours - DM
Her heart clenched within her ribcage.
Their time together was sacred.
Leaning back in her chair, she nervously twirled the white gold chain he had gifted her on their sixth month together.
Hermione stared into nothingness recalling the beautiful memory.
"Close your eyes," Draco instructed lovingly.
She looked at him suspiciously
Rolling his eyes, he told her again, firmly this time, "Just do it, Granger."
Slowly she closed her eyes and felt his soft lips press against hers.
She felt him take her hand and place something in her palm.
"Open," he said excitedly.
Sitting in the middle of her palm was a miniature version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Delicately she picked it up and stared at it and then back at him.
Draco smiled, "We've been together for months, I thought we could take a small trip."
"To Italy?" Hermione cried in excitement.
He nodded amused, "Unless you know another Tower of Pisa."
Her arms went around him and they embraced heatedly.
Bags packed. Draco had decided to fly instead of using a Portkey.
They sat in the lavish first-class section of the plane.
Hermione leaned back into the comfortable wide seat and eyed Draco through lowered eyelashes.
He was speaking to a flight attendant requesting glasses of champagne.
She took his hand in hers and kissed his knuckles.
"Isn't this so much better than using a Portkey?" he asked a content smile on his face.
Snuggling further into the plush chair, Hermione nodded in agreement.
Their champagne flutes arrived and they clinked glasses and sipped the bubbly.
"I love you," he told her suddenly.
Leaning over, she placed a loving kiss to his lips and said, "I love you so much."
They spent the duration of the flight chatting about their trip.
Hermione took a book out and she pointed out interesting facts and places for them to visit.
Amused and pleased by her reaction, Draco listened intently watching her excited face lovingly.
A Porsche Panamera awaited their arrival at the airport and the driver was a vibrant wizard who pointed at buildings and gave them a brief history as he drove them to the hotel.
Draco rolled his eyes, the man talked too much. It was getting on his bloody nerves.
When he went to tell the man to shut up, Hermione poked him in the ribs and shushed him.
They pulled up at the Villa Spalletti Trivelli
After helping them with their bags, Felix the chauffeur spoke in his thick Italian accent, "Please call me whenever you want Mr Malfoy."
Hermione looked around the lobby in awe.
The paintings looked ancient and the décor was exquisite.
They checked-in, key in hand a butler came around and bowed politely.
Draco put his arm around Hermione and pulled her close as they followed the Butler down the corridor and along the way.
The butler stood in front of a large oak door and pushed it open, "This is our garden suite."
Draco looked around the place and nodded his approval.
He truly had class and elegance oozing out of him.
Hand in his pocket, crisp white shirt and beige trousers, he looked like a cross between a noble Lord and an Abercrombie model.
Hermione stood at his side taking in her surroundings.
"My name is Marcus and I'm at you service Mr and Mrs Malfoy," the butler said with a courteous bow.
Hermione felt herself blush a fiery shade of red. Her cheeks turned crimson and Draco affectionately smiled at her, his eyes full of laughter.
The minute Marcus left, Draco gathered her in his arms and lifted her off the ground.
She threw her head back in sweet laughter.
Laying her down gently on the bed, he lovingly undressed her.
Pushing her blue cotton summer dress over her head.
She unbuttoned his shirt, kissing each area that got exposed.
It was gentle and precious.
They kissed fervently holding onto each other's faces tongues pushing against each other.
"I love you always, Hermione," he whispered between kisses.
Her fingers found its way into his hair.
Reaching behind, he unhooked her bra and cupped her mounds.
Taking a rosy bud between his teeth, he slowly bit down before sucking on it.
Kissing slowly down her stomach, he reached her mildly soaked underwear.
Hooking his thumbs through the band, Draco slowly removed it and tossed it on the floor.
Her glistening wetness made him swallow hard.
He cupped her cunt, slipping a longer finger within.
Hermione arched her back, fingers digging into the luxurious white sheets of the foreign bed.
Parting her lips, he licked the inner folds slowly.
"Fuck Draco," she moaned, her fingers running through his hair.
He smirked, his nose touching her swollen bud.
Giving her slit another swipe with his tongue, he pushed within starting to devour her whole.
She wriggled but he held her in place.
Lapping at her wetness hungrily.
Hermione tried to pull him up, "Please Draco, I want to feel you in me."
Letting go he rose, "Since you asked nicely."
She was on him in an instant.
Unbuttoning and pushing his trousers and boxers down urgently.
Eagerly, she encircled his erection and fondled it.
Moving her hand up and down slowly.
Draco leaned into her touch and groaned, "Good girl."
Bringing him closer, she took him full in the mouth.
Draco almost lost balance at the sheer intensity.
She pulled at him until only his balls were hanging outside slapping against her chin.
Spit gathered and dripped down the sides of her mouth.
Grabbing onto her head, he started to move fucking the warmth within.
Cupping his balls, she massaged it between her fingers running it over her smooth fingertips.
Eyes closed, Draco was fast losing himself to the sensation of being in Hermione's mouth.
She moved with such skill and expertise licking and sucking on his cock.
Letting go with a loud slurp, he watched her move back and spread her legs.
"In me now," she pleaded moving her fingers between her thighs to massage her clit.
Draco smirked at the fire in her eyes.
Climbing on top of his witch, he placed his swollen head at her entrance and pushed in slowly.
Watching her cunt devour his cock inch by inch.
Her legs went around him, pulling him closer.
He started to move, slow thrusts at first had her squirming under him.
His head rubbed against her clit.
Entwining his fingers through hers, he pinned her hands over her head.
His thrusts became urgent.
The rhythmic build up was mind-blowing.
"Babe," Hermione moaned feeling the slow rise of heat.
They came to their release whispering and proclaiming their shared love for one another.
He moved to her side, curling next to her, holding her firmly around her waist.
"Are you happy?" Draco asked affectionately.
Hermione touched his lips, "More than I've ever been."
The minute she said it a wave of guilt washed over her as she thought of Theo.
Please forgive me
Satisfied and unaware of her thoughts, Draco lovingly pulled her closer and kissed her.
Eagerly she returned his hunger for her.
It was dark, they showered and changed into casual wear before exploring the suite.
The garden suite boasted a beautiful view and dining area.
Draco made a phone call and within fifteen minutes food was served under candlelight.
Marcus smiled at them warmly and invited them to follow him to the dining area outside.
Lights surrounded them and taking Hermione by the hand Draco led them towards the table.
Marcus poured them glasses of champagne and they clinked glasses.
"Six months and forever," Draco toasted, lovingly looking into her shy face.
Hermione smiled and nodded wholeheartedly.
He was everything.
Content, they walked around before exhaustion weighed down on them and they returned to the cool bedroom to get ready for bed.
The next day they had taken in the many sights.
Hermione wanted to visit everywhere.
They started with the Colosseum and ended at the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Travelling the Muggle way would have taken them hours, using magic they arrived instantly.
She rattled off facts and important historic notes at every location, eagerly looking around and wide-eyed at the ancient structures.
Draco looked at her bewilderment in amusement. She was a sight when passionate.
He nodded enthusiastically, adding in his own facts and figures.
Near the Tower, there was a quaint ages-old restaurant that Felix promised had the best wine in Italy.
Draco rolled his eyes at the blatant declaration but he was hungry and his stomach rumbled.
Taking Hermione by the hand, they sat across from each other chatting about the day's activities.
Grudgingly he was forced to admit the wine did taste good, he placed his glass on the table, reached into his pocket and pulled out a beautifully wrapped jewellery box.
Hermione cocked her head to the side and looked at the long box with interest.
He slid it across the table.
"I got it custom made, I hope you like it, darling," Draco told her eagerly looking into her face intently.
She took it eagerly and delicately removed the wrapping.
The long velvety box felt smooth under her fingers.
With trembling hands, Hermione opened it and gasped.
It was a sapphire and diamond pendant handcrafted in solid white gold. The pear cut pendant suspended from a white gold double link rope chain with spring clasp.
Taking it out, she gushed, "Draco, it's beautiful."
Smiling he got to his feet and fastened it around her neck. Kissing her collarbone before pulling away.
Secretly, Hermione thanked Merlin for getting him a gift too.
"My turn," she said warmly.
He raised a questioning eyebrow.
She took out a box with a green bow attached to the top and pushed it towards him.
Excited, he opened it and smiled.
It was an exquisite Mont Blanc watch with a black leather strap.
The cogs and intricate details visible.
He stared at it in awe, it was a beautiful watch.
"Flip it over," she instructed impatiently.
Turning it over, Draco read the inscription.
"You will forever be my always - Love H."
Draco was on his feet, lifting her off the ground.
Kissing her passionately, while tourists and locals whistled and clapped around them.
"I love you so much," Draco muttered against her lips.
"As I love you," Hermione replied placing her palm over the beating of his heart.
Mine, always mine.
That had been three months ago. They were coming up on a year.
A blissful year, up until now.
She was pulled out of her vivid memory by the sound of the Muggle ringing tone.
Looking at her phone, Hermione frowned.
Unknown number.
Without much thought, she answered, "Hello."
A sweet voice on the other end made the hair on her neck stand up, "Hi am I speaking with Hermione Granger?
Clearing her voice, Hermione spoke confidently, "Yes, this is she, who am I ask is calling?"
A moments silence.
"This is Tracey Davis," came the shaky reply.
Further unnerving silence…
Hermione felt resentment creep into her tone, "How did you get my number?"
Tracey hesitated and said, "Er...from a friend."
Pansy being that friend, the fierce Slytherin woman had let Tracey have it for being a homewrecker whore and after much begging, she had handed over the number.
"I see," Hermione replied crisply.
Tracey cleared her throat and pushed forward, "I wanted to let you know that nothing happened between Draco and me."
More silence followed.
"Go on Tracey, I'm listening," Hermione answered sternly.
Tracey laughed nervously and continued, "He spent dinner talking about you. I got a little drunk and he was being a gentleman to see me back to my room."
Hermione pressed her lips together without replying.
"He loves you very much. I'm really sorry but I swear to you nothing happened," Tracey added finally.
Felling a sense of relief, Hermione sighed deeply and replied, "Thank you for telling me Tracy, I appreciate it."
Tracey relaxed and said, "Take care, goodbye then."
Hermione responded with a hint of warmth, "You too and thank you once again."
She stared at the phone and her lips curved upwards.
"Mate, do you think this is the best time?" Blaise asked, signing a few papers and handing it over to the waiting man.
Draco stared at the models of brooms and replied miserably, "Yes it is."
Leaning into his chair, Blaise summoned bottled of butterbeer and handed one to Draco, "We can postpone, I don't think you going away for a few days is what Granger needs right now."
Twisting the top off, Draco quenched his thirst and replied, "It's what I need."
Blaise followed suit and mused, "What the heck happened?"
Draco threw his best friend a look of disgust, "Nothing fucking happened, she had a few drinks, got drunk, I helped her back to her room. End of story."
With a mouthful of butterbeer, he muttered, "So much for trying to do the right fucking thing."
Raising an eyebrow, Blaise questioned interestedly, "And Davis didn't try anything? Tracey had a thing for you."
Draco remained quiet, continuing to stare at the new Nimbus.
Roaring with laughter, Blaise banged his fist on the table, "Fuck she did!"
Frowning, Draco rolled his eyes exasperatedly, "She was drunk and I love Granger."
Looking over at his friend, he asked with interest, "How the hell was your dinner?"
Blaise smirked, "Never made it to dinner."
That got Draco interested, "What the fuck do you mean?"
Shrugging Blaise replied jovially, "We met, ended up at her place and ordered pizza after."
It was Draco's turn to laugh.
"Layla was both gentle and flexible," Blaise added with a mischievous smile.
"Layla?" Draco questioned.
"She's half Lebanese, nothing like an older woman to make you appreciate sex," Blaise answered, his eyes glazing over longingly.
Draco rolled his eyes.
Blaise had always enjoyed the occasional roll in the hay with an older woman.
Something jogged his memory and Draco asked, "I saw you panting after Par...something a Gryffindor girl."
"Parvati," Blaise offered affectionately and then added, "I asked her out. She's...err…different. I can see myself falling for her, having a proper relationship for a change."
With a deep laugh, he concluded, "Consider Layla my last shag as a free man."
Nodding understandably, Draco pulled out his phone and called Hermione.
He missed her so much but she had clearly requested "space" and hours had already passed.
His patience had reached its end.
"Hello," came her voice
"Are you home?" He asked earnestly
"Granger put the phone away, I'm tired and hot, let's finish this," Ryan cried out rudely.
Draco frowned his tone laced with anger, "Is that the American fucktard?"
Without bothering to answer his question, she lashed out, "I'll call you later."
The line went dead.
He stared at the phone, clutching it hard in frustration.
"Trouble in paradise," Blaise asked curiously.
Getting to his feet, Draco replied, "I need to go to the Ministry."
Blaise shook his head and warned, "Leave it, Drake, Granger needs space."
Ignoring his best friends advice, he strode out of the office and apparated to the Ministry of Magic.
Making one more stop before he did.
The halls dark and surrounding areas shadowy, the only light came from her room.
Draco watched from the shadows almost approaching when he froze.
Ryan came into view, he pushed a piece of chocolate cake in front of Hermione.
"Every woman loves chocolate, even you Granger," Ryan mused with a sly smile, sliding into the chair and stretching out his long legs.
Hermione laughed, a low sensual sound drifted from her office and Draco watched her pick up a small fork and break off a piece of the frosted cake.
His hand clutched tightly around the Chinese takeout he had with him.
Confidently, he tapped on the door and stepped inside.
Ryan was instantly on his feet, his hand around his wand.
Draco eyed him lazily and fixed him with a disgusted glare.
Hermione narrowed her eyes, "I wasn't expecting you."
He eyed the chocolate cake irritably and replied, "I can see that."
Placing the bag of food on her table, he explained his presence, "I knew you were working late so I brought you some Chinese."
Ryan laughed from the corner and retorted, "Gee thanks Princess but we had dinner covered."
Sneering, he added, "How's the Davis chick?"
Keeping his temper in check, Draco ignored the moronic American in the room and replied through clenched teeth, "You would be wise to keep your mouth shut. We wouldn't want another accident, now would we?"
Touching his chin involuntarily, Ryan glared at the back of Draco's head.
Hermione looked at the many files littering her desk, she suddenly felt exhausted, "Actually we are almost done. If you don't mind waiting Draco, we can leave together."
Giving a curt nod, he said, "I will be outside."
Throwing a last look of disgust at Ryan, he strode out of the room.
"Hermione…" Ryan drawled in his Texan accent.
Draco hated the way the leech said her name, dragging it out sensually.
"We have a lot more to cover," he complained looking at the files.
She sighed, "I'm tired and you said the same yourself, let's pick this up tomorrow."
Getting to his feet, Ryan dusted his robes said, "Fine," and stormed out.
Hermione came out carrying a few files and her bag, "Let's go."
Draco took some of the files from under her arm.
At her flat, she dumped the files on her couch and turned to him, "I told you I wanted space."
Before he could answer, she continued harshly, "The only reason you came by is because you heard Ryan earlier."
Purposely, he looked away sheepishly.
Pretending to get a bottle of water, Draco called out from the kitchen, "He's using our situation to get close to you."
Hermione crossed her arms across her chest, "Stop treating me like a bloody child Draco. I'm not made out of glass."
Her temper rising she added, "The last I checked it was you sneaking into hotel rooms, not me."
He had apologized, he had pleaded and now he was fucking pissed.
Staring her down, he shot back angrily, "I did not fucking sneak into her hotel room, I helped her in there is a difference."
Hands of her hips, Hermione challenged him, "If the Prophet had not reported this would you have told me what happened?"
Draco answered at once, "Err...yes I would have."
Mused, she asked, "Really? Then why didn't you? You sent me one text."
"A text you never replied to so I left you alone because I trust you," he replied without hesitation.
Silence followed.
Throwing his hands up in the air, he rounded on her in frustration, "Why the fuck didn't you reply?"
Hermione opened her mouth to answer but nothing came out.
He had her there.
Taking her hand in his, he kissed her fingers, "I don't want to fight over pointless garbage."
She looked into his face. The pain was still there.
Why was it not going away?
"Deep down you know I would never cheat on you," Draco told her determinedly.
Taking her hand back, Hermione sat down twirling the ring to calm herself.
His eyes moved to the ring and he grimaced, his handsome features creased with growing anguish and worry.
"Do you want me to leave?" Draco asked reluctantly.
Please say no...
Looking up, she asked, "Aren't you leaving tomorrow?"
"Yes," he replied solemnly. Maybe it wasn't the best time to take this trip to Bali.
"Have you packed?" Hermione questioned.
"No, not yet," Draco answered miserably.
She looked away from his pale face, "Then go home and do that."
His insides burned with every word she spoke.
Taking out his wand, he left without another word.
When she turned around he was gone. Only his enticing smell remained.