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The reporter from the Daily Prophet smiled as Draco Malfoy was brought in.
Waiting patiently had paid off and it was time to collect the reward.
The press pass around his neck read, "Wallace Strongbow."
One Juicy story coming up.
Especially when Malfoy was accompanied by nonother than Harry fucking Potter.
No fucking way Skeeter was getting this scoop.
The bloody titless bitch.
He approached the Healer on their payroll.
"Lay it on me, John," he inquired quickly, pulling out a small notebook.
John threw him a look of disgust.
Looking around wildly, the Healer grabbed him by the collar and frog marched him into an empty room.
"You bloody moron, are you trying to get me fucking sacked?" John asked furiously.
His beady little eyes darting outside to see if anyone had followed him.
Fucking newbie, he thought bitterly.
Wallace put his hands up in defeat, "Sorry mate, slipped my mind."
Lazily John drawled, "Jet ski accident in Bali, Indonesia. He was barely hanging by a thread."
He let out a small laugh. "Thought it was over when the bugger started to vomit blood."
Looking at Wallace scribble notes, John continued, "His mates, Potter and the gorgeous other man had done some remarkable groundwork before Portkeying him from Bali."
Wallace stopped scribbling and looked up, raising an eyebrow he asked curiously, "Didn't know men were your fancy."
He involuntarily took a step back, breaking away from John's penetrating gaze.
John chuckled, "I swing both ways mate, best of both worlds."
A few seconds of awkward silence followed and Wallace gathered himself, "Riiiiight, anything else on the story?"
John shrugged, "That's about it. Please do make sure the Galleons are credited to my vault before midday."
He gave a curt nod and disappeared into the crowd at St. Mungo's.
Wallace stared after him.
Quickly stuffing the notepad and the small Muggle camera inside his robes, he cautiously stepped out of the room.
Muggle devices were ideal for stealthy business. They were small enough to hide on one's person.
Grinning to himself, Wallace recalled the pictures he took.
They were bloody priceless.
Malfoy's unmoving body on a cart, Harry Potter and Blaise Zabini running alongside the attendants of St Mungos.
Close ups of the limp body of Draco Malfoy and Harry Potter's grief stricken face.
Fucking perfection.
Wallace glanced at the clock, 3.48 am. If he hurried, the story could make the morning paper.
Eat shit, Skeeter.
Picking up his pace, the slightly built man in chocolate coloured robes sprinted to an apparation point.
The doorbell rang persistently.
Was it her door?
Hermione checked the time.
It was dark, the sun was yet to rise.
The time barely six am.
She was up anyways.
Draco….her thoughts constantly on the man she loved.
Near midnight she had bolted straight up bathed in sweat.
The doorbell again, whoever it was, was an impatient bastard.
But was it her door? Sometimes you could hear the neighbours.
Few more annoying rings.
Definitely her door.
Hurriedly, Hermione pushed back the covers and picked up her wand.
She had not been sleeping well, idly tossing and turning.
Her body restless and tormented.
A good night's sleep was not in the cards for her tonight.
The magic that flowed through her was in turmoil, it surged through her pricking at the insides of her skin.
In shorts, a t-shirt and mismatched socks, Hermione cautiously approached the door.
The piercing noise of the doorbell was replaced by loud knocking.
Violent pounding shook the door, threatening to take it right off its hinges.
Clutching her wand tightly to her chest, she stood on her side of the door and asked firmly, "Who is it?"
"Granger, it's me, please open up its fucking freezing out here," a familiar voice answered from the other side of the door.
What the hell was Blaise doing at her flat at this ungodly hour?
Quickly, Hermione released the chain and opened the door, just a crack.
It was Blaise, she threw the door open at once and he stepped into the warmth of the flat rubbing his hands.
They locked eyes. His eyes bore into hers, it made her anxious.
His brow creased with worry, his whole demeanour was strained.
He was usually the most collected out of the lot of them, something was wrong, very wrong.
It dawned on her that he should not be here at all.
Finding her voice, Hermione asked curiously, "What are you doing here? I thought you were in Bali."
Blaise took off his gloves and stared at her face. His eyes kept darting behind her, who was he waiting for?
Her mind racing, she swallowed hard and asked, her voice laced with worry, "Where's Draco?"
He turned to face her, his face contorted sadly, "Granger, calm down."
The door still open, she closed the distance between them and Blaise stepped back.
Wide-eyed and searching his face for any reaction, Hermione asked again, this time more fiercely, "Where is Draco, Blaise?"
It was a simple question.
Why was he acting so nervous?
The blood in her veins turned ice cold.
Her fingertips lost feeling and her wand dropped to the ground.
It seemed like it took forever to fall.
A loud thud behind her made her jump out of her skin.
Harry straightened up, stepped inside the flat and closed the door behind him.
Relief radiated off Blaise, "Potter, thank Merlin," he muttered.
Turning to face her best friend, Hermione pleaded, tears clouding her vision, "Harry, please tell me where Draco is."
Harry's green eyes looked right into her chocolate brown and took her hand in his, "Calm down Hermione."
Her frustration was at a boiling point.
Aggressively, she took her hands out of his and stepped back.
The bile rose in her throat rose unpleasantly.
Hermione pointed at both of them with her finger and cried, "STOP TELLING ME TO CALM DOWN."
Losing all composure, she shouted, "WHERE THE FUCK IS DRACO?"
She clutched her chest and took massive gulps of air.
"Draco...where...Harry..." Hermione managed between laboured breathing.
Harry and Blaise were at her side in an instant, stretching her hand out, she grabbed onto Harry's jacket.
Her knuckles turned white at the intensity of her hold.
Blaise exchanged a frightful look with Harry. Their shoulders slumped in defeat.
Hermione slumped against Harry's chest fighting for every breath.
"Is she having a panic attack?" Blaise asked Harry in concern.
Her windpipe was collapsing around her.
Harry nodded at Blaise and reassuringly ran his fingers down her hair muttering calming words, "Shhh….Please calm down Hermione."
The spit from her mouth dribbled down her chin and onto his jacket.
Fighting to compose herself, Hermione willed herself to calm down.
Wide-eyed she stared at the grief-stricken face of the tanned man peering into her face.
"There was an accident…..," Blaise started to speak.
Hermione heard nothing beyond that, her head began to spin dangerously.
Her eyes rolled back in her head, she heard Harry's contorted voice through a haze.
Accident, Theo...
No, not Draco...in a million years, not Draco.
Take me instead...
Dizzy, she fell holding onto her head.
Harry caught her before she to the floor.
Hermione saw his concerned face hover over hers, calling out her name loudly.
Blaise came into view, his eyes widened in shock.
"Please not my Draco, not Draco..," she kept repeating.
Harry gathered her in his arms.
Holding her close to his chest, she faintly heard the rapid beating of his heart and whispered, "Hermione, darling he's fine."
Relief spread from her core to all parts of her body. Waves of happiness washed over her and surrounded her heart.
Oh, Merlin, he was alive.
If the Gods took Draco from her, she would join him shortly.
She would surely die of a broken heart.
Her voice weak, "Where is he?"
Harry continued to stroke her hair lovingly, "At St Mungo's, he needed a few spells to patch him up, it was a pretty bad knock."
She grabbed Harry's jacket at once, "Harry take me to him."
"Of course darling, that is why we are here," he told her reassuringly.
Getting to her feet, she ran to the bedroom.
Blaise helped himself to a bottle of water and tossed one towards Potter.
He caught it effortlessly and drained the bottle in one go.
They exchanged a grave look and Blaise shook his head despairingly.
Hurriedly, Hermione pulled on a pair of jeans and a white sweater.
Still wearing the mismatched socks, she pulled on her trainers and summoned her wand.
Tugging at her sweater, Hermione rushed back into the living room.
"Let's go," she told them impatiently.
They took out their wands and apparated.
The sun was rising, the yellow rays bathed everything in a warm earthy glow.
It had been two years since she stepped foot inside St Mungo's.
Without stopping Hermione hurried up the steps and followed Blaise down the wide marbled corridor.
They came to stand outside the room, it was a private room, of course, the best money could buy.
Slowly pushing the door open, Blaise strode inside, his coat rustling behind him.
Draco looked up at his best friend and smiled, he put aside the book he was reading.
He was momentarily blinded by the thick head of hair obscuring his vision.
Hot tears fell against his cheek, Hermione held him close and cried, "I'm sorry I let you leave like that."
Sobbing hysterically, she muttered into the crook of his neck, "I do not deserve you. I love you, more than my life, I love you."
Draco let her hold him, he did not dare touch her.
Over her head, Draco looked at Blaise in shock and confusion.
His eyes widened at the reaction of the witch weeping against his body.
Hermione slowly let go and stared into the face of the man looking at her.
He was looking at her oddly, his eyes vacant, his lips pressed down in anger.
Something was horribly wrong.
Finding his voice, he sneered, "What the hell are you doing Granger?"
Moving away from her touch, he muttered, "Don't touch me."
Slowly, Hermione backed away from the bed and locked eyes with Blaise.
Her red-rimmed eyes pleading for an explanation.
Draco turned to Blaise, his expression angry and hardened, harshly he asked, "Why is this woman hugging me?"
Blaise rolled his eyes and placed his hand on Draco's shoulder, "Granger is your girlfriend mate."
"WHAT? NO FUCKING WAY," Draco bellowed, filling the space with his voice.
At once, his eyes closed and he fell against the soft pillow, mumbling incoherently, "I don't remember, everything is so blurry."
His bandaged hand grabbed his head in agonizing pain.
"Why would I date Granger?" Draco asked Blaise suspiciously.
Blaise looked down at his friend and grinned.
Hermione backed into the corner of the room, clutching her chest as she felt the bile rise in her throat once again.
The tears slid down her petite face steadily.
Backed up against the hard wall, Hermione clutched her head and slid to the floor.
Hugging her legs to her chest, she closed her eyes and started to rock back and forth.
Draco got to his feet at once, holding onto his side he limped over to her fallen form.
His head throbbed, he felt drowsy with the potions he had been given.
Blaise shook his head angrily, "You have officially taken it too far."
Approaching Hermione, Draco into her petrified face.
"That was not funny you tosser, look at her!" Blaise scolded his best friend sternly.
Crouching down next to Hermione, Draco pulled her towards him surrounding her with his warmth.
She let him hold her against his chest, his heartbeats steadily increased.
"Draco?" Hermione whispered against his skin.
"Ssshh...it's ok darling," he mumbled into her hair.
My sun.
Draco took a deep breath, "Merlin, I missed your smell."
Blaise rolled his eyes and sarcastically quipped, "We were gone for two days, Drake."
Releasing his witch, he cupped Hermione's face and looked deep into her tear-stained eyes, "She knows I love her too much to ever forget her."
He had tried for the good part of ten years to forget her.
Her hands limp at first went around him, constricting his breathing.
"Hermione, I can't breathe," Draco stammered out of breath.
Happy tears fell down her cheeks, "You're ok, oh Merlin, you're ok."
Draco gathered her in his arms again and soothingly cooed, "Of course I am, just a rather unfortunate jet ski accident."
"I'm so sorry for everything," she apologized through the tears.
He continued to stroke her hair, "You have nothing to be sorry for."
They got to their feet and she looked at the back of his platinum blonde head where a deep gash was visible but mending.
Draco hurriedly hopped back onto the bed and slipped under the covers before the strict Healer had his head.
Having had enough of watching the loving couple, Blaise yawned and came over, "This has been fun, I'm fucking exhausted. Catch you, kids, later."
The men fist-bumped and Hermione hugged Blaise tightly around the waist, he gave her a tight squeeze and said, "Take care, Granger."
Quickly dropping a kiss to her forehead, the tall man walked out of the room.
The minute Blaise disappeared, Hermione punched Draco hard and hugged him again, "That was not funny Malfoy."
He chuckled, "Yes, it was."
Draco stared at Hermione lovingly. She did not need to know how close he had come to dying.
Thank Merlin for Potters quick thinking and daring nerve of swimming out to him.
Thank Godric Gryffindor for Potters reckless bravery.
Draco remembered nothing except coming to at St Mungo's surrounded by Healers.
Blaise had explained how putting caution to the wind they had swum out to where he went under and with the help of their wands and magic pulled him back from the brink of death.
Blaise pulled Draco into a tight brotherly hug, "We almost lost you mate."
He had tears in his eyes, had he come that close to dying?
After pulling him ashore, Potter had pulled out his wand and muttered incantations over him drawing the swallowed water out in waves.
He had then commissioned an emergency Portkey and brought them to St Mungo's.
Reaching to touch her face, he told her seriously, "Remind me to thank Potter, this is the second time he's saved my neck."
Hermione closed her eyes, feeling his fingers on her skin.
An older stern-looking Healer walked in unceremoniously, experience radiated off her.
She walked to the table close to Draco and put down a tray of potions.
Adjusting her Healer coat, she turned to face them and said sternly, "Mr Malfoy here is lucky to be alive."
Hermione widened her eyes in shock she had not been told the full details of the accident.
Draco frowned, "Come on Esme, please don't upset my girlfriend."
Esme shook her head incredulously, "God bless her soul for putting up with you."
Raising her head to meet Hermione's gaze, she told her flatly, "He will have to spend the night. Just to make sure there's no internal bleeding."
Hermione held onto Draco's hand and nodded at once.
Lips pressed together crossly, Esme handed them the Daily Prophet, "You do like making the front page don't you Mr Malfoy?"
Frowning, he punched the bedding and winced, "How the fuck did they even find out?"
The picture that accompanied the article made her blood run cold.
Her lip quivered and she bit down hard to control herself.
Hermione scanned over the article and frowned angrily, she placed a kiss to Draco's forehead and ran her fingers through his hair.
Holiday Mishap in Bali, Indonesia.
Harry Potter saves former Death Eater turned best friend.
Draco Malfoy at St. Mungo's fighting for his life.
A boy's getaway turned tragic when Mr Malfoy's jet ski turned over and he was swept under.
Will he survive this ordeal or succumb to his injuries?
A Wallace Strongbow exclusive.
Draco sighed in content. Having her near him was all he would ever need.
At half-past eight am, Narcissa strode in looking worried and pale.
Her normal regal appearance in disarray.
Draco put his hands up and blurted out, "Mother, I'm fine."
Narcissa put her arms around her only son, planting kisses across his face.
"My son," she sobbed.
"Mother, look at me, I'm fine.," Draco reassured her repeatedly.
Hermione stood to the side watching mother and son, her own emotions getting the better of her and spilling over.
"Cissy, it has been far too long," Esme's jovial voice cut through the sensitive scene before her.
At the familiar voice, Narcissa let go of Draco and turned to its source, "Esme! Look after my son."
Esme smiled warmly, "Calm down love, he is going to be just fine."
They exchanged a tight hug.
"It has been years since I last saw you," Narcissa told her old friend.
"Perhaps, we should change that," Esme offered eagerly.
Narcissa nodded and went around to sit by Draco.
She took his hand in hers and cupped her face with it.
Silent tears slid down her face.
"Mother please stop crying," Draco pleaded his voice cracking with emotion.
Hermione came around and placed a small hand on Narcissa's shoulder, trying her best to pacify the regal lady.
Narcissa covered it with her hand and smiled at her son's girlfriend.
Draco did his best to answer the hundreds of questions his mother threw at him and by the time she left, he was exhausted.
"Esme is an old friend of mom's from Hogwarts," He offered in explanation.
Hermione settled herself into the armchair in the corner and pulled the book Draco was reading towards her.
He smiled at her and rested his throbbing head on the pillow. Within seconds he was fast asleep.
The skies darkened, bringing about the end the day.
She stood over Draco's sleeping form, moving the rogue pieces of hair off his forehead.
Placing her palm on his chest, Hermione felt the rise and fall of his content breathing.
Lovingly, she bent over and placed a soft kiss to his lips, he murmured in response.
"Come in Astoria, you've been standing there for over ten minutes," Hermione said to the shadows.
Astoria stepped into the light, her heels clicked against the tiled floor, "I...er...saw the Prophet."
Hermione did not bother looking at her but replied, "Of course you did."
Coming closer, concern lacing every word Astoria asked, "How is he?"
The fiery Gryffindor continued to look at her boyfriend lovingly, "Good, he will be able to go home tomorrow."
Hermione touched Draco's cheek.
Astoria stiffened, her eyes blazed with anger, "Are you together then?"
Turning to look at the woman beside her, Hermione looked directly into Astoria's face, and replied confidently, "Yes we are."
Astoria scoffed, "You will be his ruin."
Letting out a small laugh, Hermione asked harshly, "And how exactly did you come to that conclusion?"
Pointedly looking around, Astoria cocked her head to the side and retorted, "How many of your men have you visited here?"
Narrowing her eyes in anger, Hermione spat, "That is out of line Astoria."
Astoria leered, happy that she got under Hermione's skin and replied, "But the truth nonetheless."
Leaning forwards, her voice laced with sugary sweetness, she said, "Why don't you leave Draco alone and perhaps find a nice Muggle?"
Hermione smirked, "You would love that, wouldn't you?"
Ignoring the comment, Astoria pressed on harshly, "The heir to one of the oldest wizarding families has no business breeding with you."
Snorting Hermione responded tartly, "Breeding? How archaic of you Astoria."
Letting her voice, she continued darkly, "I will let what you say slide Astoria because I know you love him and have loved him for years."
Tears stung the pureblood woman's eyes, "More than you can comprehend."
Grabbing Hermione by the wrist, her nails dug into her skin, Astoria snapped, "Don't you see that you are destroying him?"
Roughly Hermione broke free from Astoria's hold.
Nothing deterred the determined woman, she pressed on and homed in for the kill, "Draco deserves better than the secondhand rotting goods of his best friend."
Her eyes travelled over Hermione's body in contempt.
Hermione stiffened but forced a smile, "Congratulations on your engagement."
Astoria glared and pressed her lips down hard.
Without another word, Astoria turned on her heel and left before Hermione could see the tears fall.
Hermione felt the anger flow through her veins. The woman's last words greatly upset her and it would be unrealistic to pretend otherwise.
Andromeda frowned at the Prophet.
Teddy would be distraught.
The last thing she wanted was her grandson to see one of his favourite people fighting for his life.
The boy had too many people he loved dying on him.
She decided to call Hermione.
"Hello Meda," Hermione said as soon as the call connected.
"How is Draco and er...how are you?" Andromeda asked in concern.
"He is fine, sleeping now. I don't know how I am; I hate being here," she confessed rubbing her arms.
Andromeda nodded, "I understand Mione. Everything will be alright."
After a seconds silence, she added, "I don't fancy bringing Teddy to St Mungo's, when will you be taking Draco home?"
Hermione replied at once, "Later today, I will owl once we are home."
Smiling Andromeda replied, "Thank you, darling. Give him our love and you be safe."
Harry had left earlier after seeing Blaise and her to St Mungo's walked in holding hands with Ginny.
Without hesitation, Ginny pulled Hermione into a hug.
Why the heck were the Gods punishing this woman so much.
Give her a break, the redhead whispered to the heavens.
Hermione held onto Ginny, crying softly into her shoulder.
"I hate being here Gin," she whispered.
Harry soothingly rubbed her back.
"Hermione?" Draco's voice cut through the emotional situation.
He tried to stretch but winced in pain holding onto his side.
Harry walked around the bed to stand by the side, smiling warmly he said, "Malfoy, you look good."
Draco raised his hand and Harry took it at once.
"Thank you, Potter," Draco said wholeheartedly.
Harry nodded and replied, "Think nothing of it."
Letting out a laugh, Draco mused, "It is a good fucking thing you came with us."
Joining the laughter, Harry stated, "I have my uses."
Looking over at Hermione, his face fell with worry, "Why is my girl crying?"
Ginny frowned, "Why the fuck do you think Malfoy?"
She muttered, "idiot," under her breath.
Draco smiled sheepishly and beckoned Hermione forward.
Taking her hand in his, he kissed her fingers and whispered, "I love you very much."
The tinge of orange in the sky told them that the day was almost over.
Senior Healer Esme walked in with the release papers.
Draco signed them and quipped, "You will miss me, Esme."
Her face softened, she touched his hand, "No doubt you cheeky git."
Hermione smiled at the older woman and busied herself with picking out a t-shirt and loose pants for Draco to wear.
He sat on the edge of the bed.
She held out the t-shirt and put it over his head, helping him push his arms through the sleeves.
Putting a bandaged hand on her waist, he pulled her closer between his legs and kissed her passionately.
Hermione returned his kiss lovingly.
A stern cough made them jump apart.
Esme looked at them disapprovingly through lowered spectacles, "If it was not clear, no bedroom activity for a week or more."
Draco looked mortified, "A WEEK?"
Putting firm hands on her hips, Esme retorted, "What are you a randy rabbit? No sex son."
Hermione hid a laugh and purposely stepped away, "Don't worry Healer Esme. We won't."
Draco stared at her incredulously.
Esme wagged a stern finger at Draco, "She is a good one, don't you dare let Miss Granger go."
Pulling Hermione towards him again, he hugged her around the waist, resting his head on her stomach, he replied confidently, "Not in this lifetime or the next."
Handing over a bunch of potions, she instructed strictly, "Make sure he takes these," Esme turned to glare at Draco, "and not wait till you leave the room to spit it out."
Crossing his arms over his chest, Draco pouted, "It tastes like piss."
Scrunching her nose, Esme shot back, "What are you five?"
Hermione laughed, "Every potion will be taken on time."
Putting her arms around Draco, the older Healer hugged him affectionately, "I will owl your mother and tell her not to worry. I have not seen Cissy bawl like that since Hogwarts."
Draco smiled sheepishly and nodded.
He jumped off the bed and did a few small exercises to get the blood flowing.
Hermione extended his hand and he took it placing a kiss to her knuckles.
Making their way to one of many apparation points they left.
Draco fell back onto the plush couch.
Walking into the kitchen, Hermione grabbed bottles of pumpkin juice.
Returning, she handed one to Draco and took the seat next to him.
He laid down on her lap and she ran her fingers through his silky fine hair.
"I was so scared Draco," Hermione told him her voice cracking with fear.
Hot tears fell onto his face, he could taste the saltiness, "I know darling, so was I."
Lovingly, she caressed his face.
"I have to tell you something," Hermione said cutting through the silence that surrounded them.
"Mmm..." Draco murmured.
Hermione hesitated and spat out, "Astoria came to see you."
His eyes flew open.
"She didn't stay long. We er...swapped a few nasty comments," she confessed.
Draco scowled, "What did she say?"
Shaking her head, Hermione pushed it aside, "It does not matter. She loves you still."
He sighed but remained silent.
It was a good thing he had been asleep and avoided the whole awkward encounter.
Hermione smiled warmly, "Onto happier news, Meda wanted to come by with Teddy but darling, it's best we if don't mention the accident."
Draco understood why. The boy needed reassurance that the people in his life would not die on him at a drop of a hat like his parents did.
He entwined his fingers through hers, "I'm arranging a trust fund for Teddy after I have to speak to my mother."
Overwhelmed, Hermione shrieked in delight, "Draco, that would be wonderful."
His tone turned serious, "It is Teddy's right, but I'm glad it makes you happy too."
She tried to move, "I have to owl Meda."
Handing her a mobile phone, he mused, "Or you can just call?"
They laughed together, happiness filing the confinements of the living room.
"Meda, we are home. Would you and Teddy come over for dinner?" Hermione said into the phone once Andromeda answered with a polite hello.
The older witch perked up at once, "That would be lovely dear. See you around seven pm."
Hanging up Andromeda called out, "Teddy, wash up darling. We are expected at Draco's for dinner."
Teddy came into the kitchen excitedly, "Can I ask him about career day?"
Andromeda smiled warmly, "Yes you may."
He changed his hair colour to Draco's.
It was a good look.
At five-thirty, Hermione hurried around the kitchen checking on the pot roast in the oven.
Magic was truly wonderful for time management.
"We could have just ordered food," Draco told her seriously watching her run back and forth between dishes.
Hermione beamed, "I enjoy cooking for everyone, besides Teddy, needs nourishing food."
He came up from behind and put his arms around her waist, "You would make an incredible mother."
His hot breath on her skin made her shiver with arousal.
Holding Hermione close, Draco whispered in her ear, "We can try if you like."
The potato she was peeling fell to the floor.
Shit…
She bent to pick it up. He was staring at her trying to figure out her thoughts.
Her back to the counter, she asked, "Are you serious?"
Dropping a kiss to her forehead, Draco replied at once, "Of course I am, I would hardly joke about something like that."
Pulling her close, he kissed her lips heatedly, "What do you say? A blonde-haired little girl with your eyes sounds appealing."
She raised an eyebrow, "A girl? I had you pegged for a man who would want his firstborn to be a boy."
He frowned, "I want healthy children, gender will never matter."
She looked into his eyes, "Are we seriously having this conversation?"
Cupping her face and gazing at her adoringly, he responded, "I guess we are Hermione."
Putting her arms around his neck, she kissed him hungrily.
A child, their child.
The image, the thought drove her to an elevated state of happiness.
Rubbing his groin against her hip, he muttered, "We can start trying right now."
She pushed him away playfully, "Oh no! I will not step a toe out of Esme's instructions."
"Granger, she's not here," Draco muttered looking at her desperately.
Hermione waved the peeler at him, "Back off Malfoy, not happening."
His face fell, "Your cruel you know that?"
Laughing she mused, "Perhaps, but it is for your own good."
Dropping his voice low, he added in a serious tone, "You know I nearly died, we should make use of every second."
Rolling her eyes, Hermione instructed strictly, "Well you didn't, now go get dressed."
She finished adding the chives to the sour cream of the baked potatoes when the smell of aftershave drifted towards her.
It cut through the delicious aroma of food.
He had changed into a white t-shirt that hugged his taut figure and hugged his arm muscles.
Merlin, it was going to be hard to keep her hands off him.
She put the potatoes in the oven to keep it warm, wiped her hands on the kitchen cloth and headed towards the bathroom.
Running her fingers through her tangled hair, she heard the faint sound of the door open through the rushing sound of the water over her body.
Draco stood at the sink, running wet fingers through his hair. Strands of platinum blonde stubbornly stood up.
He stared at her through the mirror, turning to face her, he said huskily, "If I can't touch, then I want to watch you."
Hermione bit her lip and Draco stiffened.
He leaned against the sink, watching her every move.
Drinking her in, devouring her with his eyes.
If he wanted a show, she would gladly give him one.
Lathering herself, Hermione discarded the loofah and used her hands and fingers to spread the lavender smelling body wash sensually across her body.
Cupping her breasts with either hand, she twirled the nipples feeling it harden under her fingers.
She washed the soap off her body.
Out of the corner of her eye, Hermione saw Draco cup his growing bulge and rub it over the material.
A low growl escaped his lips.
Letting the water run over her, she slowly ran her hand down her stomach and towards her lady garden.
Draco swallowed, his Adam's apple bobbed with each hard intake.
Hermione parted her wet pussy lips and inserted two fingers inside.
She worked the already aroused clit, running fingers around the swollen bud slowly at first and then faster.
Dulcet moans escaped her lips and drifted over the sound of the rushing water to meet Draco's eager ears.
He stared unblinkingly. His witch was a sight to behold.
So close to that ultimate release, her toes tingled with the buildup of heat.
Spreading her thighs, she pushed the two fingers into her tight dripping wet hole.
Draco shuddered like it was his cock sliding in and out of her.
Fuck, he was rock hard and ready to take off.
But still, he stared, watching his beautiful girlfriend get off in front of his eyes.
She pushed her digits inside her cunt fluidly, gasping and moaning at each thrust.
Her hand balled into a fist as she pounded the tiled wall inside the shower cubicle.
Hermione threw her head back and groaned with satisfaction.
Draco saw the effect her release had on her body, his breathing elevated and he ached to touch her.
The way her body shivered with the waves of her orgasm.
Still, he watched, his cock pressed against his boxers and jeans uncomfortably.
Regaining her composure, she grinned at him.
Hermione stepped out of the cubicle, Draco ran his dilated pupils of grey over her naked body hungrily.
Reaching for the large white towel, she attached it around her and tiptoed close to him.
Leaning against his body, she kissed him hard.
Running her tongue along his dry lips, she pushed it inside his mouth.
Her fingers worked his jeans button and zip.
Snaking down his body, she knelt at his crotch and pulled down his pants before taking his cock in her hands.
Licking her lips, at once she took him full in the mouth.
"Fuck," Draco growled holding onto the sink with both hands.
He knew he would not fucking last. His balls were already getting ready to burst.
She used her hand to stroke him while sucking on him hard.
Her lips tightened around his impressive girth, milking him, squeezing him dry.
Bucking into her warm mouth, Draco muttered, "I...can't...hold on...any longer...Granger."
He exploded in her mouth, one hand left the sink and grabbed onto her head pushing his cock down her throat.
She licked and sucked him dry.
A trickle of his come dribbled down the side of her mouth.
Her luscious tongue came out to lick it, she savoured the taste with a moan.
Licking her lips, Hermione rose and washed her mouth.
Draco pulled up his jeans, and dreamily said, "I thought we couldn't."
Hermione smirked, "Esme said no sex, she didn't say anything about me sucking you off."
"A fucking loophole," he laughed out loud.
He kissed her forehead, "and that's why you are the brightest witch of our age."
Quickly dropping a kiss to his lips, she replied confidently, "And don't you forget it."
Leaving him to trail after her, Hermione stepped into the room and quickly fished out a red t-shirt and figure-hugging jeans.
They opened a bottle of white wine and sat down with their glasses waiting for Andromeda and Teddy to arrive.
Two glasses of wine later, the loud sound of the doorbell echoed through the large penthouse flat.
Hermione got to her feet and hurried to open the door.
Teddy had grown taller.
She ruffled his hair and pulled him into an affectionate hug.
"Please come in," Draco's voice rang from behind them.
They dusted their feet and coats and stepped into the lavish flat.
Teddy waved at Draco and they fist-bumped once he got closer.
Leaning towards Andromeda, Draco gave his aunt a kiss on the cheek, she whispered, "Are you feeling better?"
Draco smiled and nodded comfortingly.
He saw the genuine concern swim around in Andromeda's eyes.
Teddy looked around the extravagant flat in wonder
He pressed his nose to the fish tank, "This is so cool."
The colourful fish swam around undeterred by the face pressing up against the glass
Hermione offered him a bottle of apple juice and Andromeda a glass of wine.
They sat on down and the animated chatter started at once.
"How's school, Teddy?" Hermione asked earnestly.
Teddy rolled his eyes and answered, "It's a bloody drag."
Andromeda clicked her tongue, "Language Teddy."
Draco stifled a laugh and Hermione nudged him slowly.
"There is a wizard in my class," he informed the adults around him.
That got their undivided attention and they asked in unison, "What?"
Teddy shrugged, it made no difference to him, "His name's Morgan Doyle."
Draco let out a whistle, "That is very rare but interesting."
Hermione nodded in agreement; Teddy was still mesmerized by the large aquarium.
Avoiding making eye contact, he spoke timidly, "There's something I want to ask you Draco."
The young wizard looked to his grandmother for approval, she smiled and encouraged him.
Draco tried to straighten and winced, "Of course, you can ask me anything."
Hermione listened intently from the kitchen.
Sensing Teddy's reluctancy to proceed with them watching, Andromeda got to her feet and called out to Hermione, "Let me help you with that Mi."
Alone, Teddy shuffled his feet, not looking Draco in the eye.
Draco watched the boy in interest and spoke, "Teddy look at me, I promise if what you ask is within my limits to do, I will do it."
Shyly, he raised his head and looked into Draco's face.
"Er…Muggle school has this thing called career day," Teddy started to explain.
Draco nodded and coaxed him to continue, "Ok...and...?"
Teddy looked extremely uncomfortable.
Draco smiled encouragingly, "Go on Teddy."
He blurted it out at super speed, "We need to bring a parent, guardian or relative and I was wondering whether you would come."
Draco laughed and stopped after he took in Teddy's upset face.
Placing a hand on his chest, he replied enthusiastically, "I would be honoured to speak at your school"
Teddy perked up, "Really, Draco?"
His eyes lit up and a smile touched his lips, "Let me know when and I'll be there guns blazing."
The boy's face broke out in happiness, "Thank you!"
Leaning over, Draco ruffled Teddy's hair, "Listen to me and I want you to always remember it, there is not a thing you can't ask me."
Smiling he added, "I will always be there for you Teddy. You have my word."
Teddy nodded sheepishly and hugged Draco.
Hermione and Andromeda wiped the tears that pooled at the corner of their eyes.
Choking back a sob, Hermione summoned them, "Dinner is ready boys."
Teddy got to his feet excitedly. They took their places and Hermione squeezed Draco's hand.
They ate, talking about Morgan, the good parts of Draco's trip and just things in general.
A beautiful Persian cat materialized, licked its paws and spoke, "Draco, please do not exert yourself. Rest and listen to Hermione."
Andromeda stiffened at the sight of the Patronus, she whispered painfully, "Cissy."
The cat stretched and disappeared.
Silence followed and Andromeda asked timidly, "How is your mother?"
Draco smiled lovingly, "Busy with her different charities."
Andromeda smiled and nodded, Draco looked at his aunt and saw how her face lit up at the sight of his mother's Patronus.
Teddy munched happily on the food, "This is delicious aunty Mione."
Draco nodded approvingly, "Teddy is spot on babe, it is really good."
After dinner, Hermione brought out an apple pie and Draco widened his eyes, "Is that...?"
Hermione grinned and replied, "My mother's apple pie that you stuff your face with."
He punched the air, "YES!"
Teddy laughed at Draco's loving display towards a pie.
Rolling her eyes, she brought out a tub of vanilla ice cream and everyone tucked in.
Draco's closed eyes and moans told her that she nailed her mother's recipe.
Teddy scooped mouthful after mouthful into his already full mouth.
Andromeda delicately broke off pieces and in the most ladylike manner ate the small pieces.
It was hard to break away from her aristocratic upbringing.
Draco helped Hermione clean the dishes but she stopped him after he held onto his side for the third time groaning in pain.
Andromeda came forward and took the plate from his hand, "You are a wizard son, act like one."
Taking out her wand she muttered a few incantations.
The plates flew from the table, including the one in Hermione's hand into the open dishwasher.
Hermione and Draco traded a shameful look.
Andromeda smirked triumphantly.
They joined Teddy. He yawned and Andromeda stated, "He has school tomorrow, it's best we get going."
They nodded and Teddy gave them quick hugs before taking his grandmother's hand.
With a final warm smile, Andromeda said, "Thank you for dinner and look after yourselves."
A loud pop later they were gone.
Later in bed, Draco went through his emails.
Many matter's required his immediate attention.
Hermione padded into the room in her nightshirt and his potions.
He frowned at the concoctions.
She poured it out onto a large spoon and said, "Open."
Groaning Draco obeyed, the liquid disappeared down his throat and he grimaced.
Correction, it tasted worse than piss.
At once, Hermione thrust a piece of chocolate into his mouth.
Grasping her wrist, he held it in place, licking the melted chocolate off her fingers.
Smirking, she asked, "Does it make the taste better?"
Draco nodded miserably, "Yes it does, thank you."
Grabbing her bottle of lotion, she instructed sternly, "Time for bed, put the laptop away."
Staring at her incredulously, he retorted firmly, "I have work, Granger."
Hermione shook her head, "You need to rest. Come on Draco."
Slumping his shoulders with defeat, he replied, "Fine."
She got into her side of the bed and pulled the duvet up to her chest.
Draco watched her movements longingly.
Purposely, Hermione turned over and faked sleep.
He groaned frustratingly and clapped his hands surrounding them with instant darkness.
Two weeks passed and Draco was back to work and almost back to his old self physically.
The pain came and went in waves but for the last four days, he had not complained of any major discomfort.
Over the weeks, Esme had been pleased with his improvement.
Ryan, Justin and Harry were away in Scotland, chasing down the final dark wizard on their list.
According to Harry, they were very close to nabbing him.
She always worried about her best friend when he went away on long missions.
Ginny would always be on edge and Hermione spent a great deal of time with her.
Kingsley was at some luncheon hosted by Lord Canterbury.
Hermione frowned. The Scottish Lord was rude and uncouth.
Draco had stuck to the no sex rule despite the obvious need to satisfy his urges but her defences were weakening.
She was horny most of the time and avoided close contact with him at all cost.
Hard to do considering they practically lived together.
Just the thought him left her wet between the legs.
Her thong dampened.
It was a slow day at the Ministry and she couldn't control it any longer.
Fixing her hair and applying a fresh coat of lip gloss, she reached for her handbag.
Stopping by her assistant's table, she lied effortlessly, "Brenda, I have an appointment darling. If anything comes up please give me a call."
The young witch smiled, "Of course Hermione."
Reaching the apparation point, she smirked and pulled out her wand.
Draco raised his head from the numerous papers.
Hermione threw her handbag onto the couch and sashayed over to the large desk, unbuttoning her blouse with each step.
She let her hair loose and shook her head, letting the wild curls fall freely around her face and shoulders, "I'm done waiting, you're fine. Fuck me Malfoy."
He stared at her at first, shocked to his core but got to his feet at once.
Meeting her halfway, Draco pulled Hermione to him and kissed her hungrily.
Placing his hands under her buttocks, he picked her up and slammed her down on the large desk.
Files and stationery that cluttered the desk fell to the ground clumsily.
The blouse fell off her shoulders, his tie went next.
He unhooked her bra and pulled it off, cupping them before bending his head to each mound.
His tongue moved around the nipple before he closed his lips around the eager mounds, sucking on the delicate skin.
She managed to unbutton his expensive shirt and in her hurry, two buttons ripped and fell to the floor.
Hermione pushed it off his broad shoulders, feeling his back muscles ripple against her fingers.
His insistent hands pushed up her skirt and it bunched around her waist.
Moving to suckle on her neck, he undid the stubborn buttons of his trousers and she pushed the briefs along with the tailored trousers down to his ankles.
Fuck he was packing and she was dripping wet.
He kissed her hard, pushing his tongue against his.
She parted her thighs and brought him closer to her body.
Long fingers found it's way to her core, Draco moved the soaked thong to a side and ran his finger along her slit.
Hermione whimpered in response.
Withdrawing, he moved closer, her legs tightened around his waist.
His head teased her opening and she gasped and moaned.
Before he entered, Draco asked huskily, "Are you off the potion?"
Was he serious about having a baby?
"No," she replied against his lips.
Draco growled, "Get off it, Hermione."
He pushed in and she thrust towards him, arching her head she moaned out loud
Draco kissed the pulse point of her neck and started to fuck her.
Few hard thrusts in, Hermione moaned, "Oh God, Draco."
That was fast.
Abstinence had caused them to crave each other ardently and make their release swift.
She pulled at him and locked her legs around his waist, he felt her wetness pool around his cock.
Holding her firmly in place, he sped up his thrusts.
Fuck, it felt so good to be inside her.
His balls pulled the pending release and shot it forth down his shaft.
He growled in satisfaction and stiffened, emptying his seed deep into her.
They leaned against each other until their breathing returned to normal.
Pulling up his trousers, Draco smirked, "I like the thought of you walking around the Ministry with my come between your legs."
Hermione laughed and fastened her bra, "You are such a child."
Taking a sniff of her, he stated happily, "You smell like me too."
Shrugging, she pulled out her wand, "Nothing a quick spell won't fix."
His eyes darkened, "Don't you fucking dare."
She sat on his lap and kissed him, "Will I see you later at mine?"
"Of course darling," Draco replied eagerly.
Three days passed, Hermione walked into the Ministry and felt an air of difference.
Jubilant cheers came from the Minister's office.
Curious, Hermione raised an eyebrow at Brenda.
She shrugged perplexedly.
Ryan came out, a huge grin plastered to his face.
Hermione saw him round the corner and stop at Brenda's small desk.
"Is she in?" He asked impatiently.
Brenda smiled, "Yes Mr Spencer just now"
He turned to face her and their eyes locked.
His soft brown orbs danced ecstatically.
Hurriedly, Ryan closed the distance between them and picked Hermione up in a bear hug.
"Oh," was all she could muster.
Ryan was a lot stronger than he looked.
"It's over, we caught him, Hermione," he muttered happily against her ear.
She returned his enthusiasm at the news.
Her arms went around his neck as he all but twirled her around the small office space.
A deep cough interrupted them and they hurriedly broke apart.
"What do we have here then?" A voice of pure steel cut through the moment awkwardly.