Hello all! I know you've all been waiting for an update to this story. Truth is I haven't been writing at all. 2020 has been atrocious. I lost my job bc of the pandemic, went through a breakup, and my grandfather passed away, all within a span of a couple months. But thanks to the election stress I started re-reading my fanfics and got inspired! So I'm hoping to continue regularly updating again, but please be understanding it may not be as regular as I would like because ya know, life.
My third novel has released and is available on Amazon as a paperback or Kindle! So please head over to C.M. Sipes on Amazon and check it out, it's called Kingdom Come!
So please enjoy this story!
Before Bella knew it, the Yule Ball had arrived. It had only been a few days since she and Hermione had kissed, and she was beginning to wonder if the girl was avoiding her at all. Their finals had been taking up the majority of their time and each time she had caught sight of Hermione, it was only a glimpse—and she was usually darting into the library. Bellatrix let her go, figuring that if the brunette needed time to process their kiss, she wasn't going to rush her on it.
She would have preferred to interact with her though...but sometimes she just couldn't have her way, a fact that she was very sourly attempting to reason with.
"What's got you in a foul mood? The Yule Ball is tonight and that's going to be loads of fun!" Ginny quipped from her seat at the table, next to Harry. She shoved a sausage in her mouth and waited expectantly for Bellatrix to respond.
"Have you seen Hermione at all?" Bella asked.
Ginny shook her head. "Only glimpses of her. You haven't seen her either? You live with her!"
Bellatrix sighed and nervously glanced between Ginny and Harry. "Okay, since you haven't seen her I'm guessing that you haven't talked to her at all..."
Ginny eyed her skeptically with an anxious expression. "What happened?"
Bellatrix took a deep breath and on the release said, "We kissed."
Harry and Ginny's eyes widened comically at the admission. Ginny was the first to recover though, and pumped a fist in the air.
"Bloody time!" She turned to Harry. "Pay up," she held her hand out.
Bellatrix quirked an eyebrow. "Pay up? You placed a bet on this?"
Ginny shrugged as if it was obvious, while Harry rooted through his bag for a galleon.
"She's been waiting for one of you to finally make the move. I bet that it would happen next term," Harry replied.
"Wait, you guys kissed and you haven't seen her the past two days at all?" Ginny pressed.
Bellatrix shook her head, a frown on her face. "I'm wondering if maybe it's all too much for her or something."
Harry offered a sympathetic smile.
"You think she's been avoiding you?" Ginny questioned before taking a swig of her pumpkin juice.
"I have no idea," Bellatrix sneered, growing irritated with the line of questioning. "Did she ever bother to tell you that I asked her to go to the Yule Ball with me as my date?"
Ginny sucked in a breath. "No, but Ron did."
"He was pretty upset about the whole thing," Harry added grimly.
Bellatrix scowled. "Quite frankly I don't give a damn if he was upset about it. Did he bother to be honest about what he said to Hermione when she rejected him?"
Both parties shook their heads no.
Bellatrix filled them in. When she finished, Ginny scoffed and rolled her eyes while Harry shook his head.
"He's such a prat. He's been civil with you for a while, guess it was all just a tactic to get on Hermione's good side again," Ginny mused. Then her eyes brightened and a smirk fell on her face. "Your girlfriend approaches."
"Hello," Hermione greeted as she plopped down next to Bellatrix. Her hair was frizzy and wind whipped. She turned and met Bellatrix gaze and offered her a bright smile. "Hi."
As if she had been submerged in a hot bath, Bellatrix released a deep sigh and returned the smile. "Hi."
"You going to kiss again?" Ginny interrupted. Her elbows rested on the table, and her chin rested on her hands as she gazed at them giddily.
Hermione rolled her eyes. "You told her?" Hermione asked Bellatrix with a sigh.
"I thought you were avoiding me," Bellatrix admitted quietly, eyes downcast at the empty plate in front of her.
Hermione's mouth opened in an 'O' shape in realization. "Oh, Bella, no. I had two more finals that I needed to prep for and take. I fell asleep in the library the other night by accident." She reached over and placed a finger under Bellatrix's chin and gently guided her to look at her. "I'm so sorry. I promise I wasn't avoiding you."
Then she leaned in and placed a soft kiss to her lips and pulled back with a small smile. Her own cheeks tinted pink.
Bellatrix's face flushed as a tiny smile graced her face.
"You guys are so cute," Ginny sighed dreamily. She earned a roll being tossed at her face by Bellatrix. "Listen I'm serious. I think this is a good thing. Who would have thought that I would be rooting for a Death Eater's happiness, especially one that tried to kill me just seven months ago." Ginny plucked the roll off the table and took a bite.
"Certainly not me," Harry retorted but offered a genuine smile. "Things will change I think...for the better."
Bellatrix returned his smile. It was only when she felt Hermione tense next to her that she realized that the brunette was thinking about her returning to her time. She reached over and grasped Hermione's hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze.
"Did you get your dress for tonight?" Ginny asked them both.
"Minny is supposed to drop it off in our quarters. I'm curious to see what Cissy designed," Bellatrix mused.
"What color are you wearing anyway?" Hermione asked suddenly.
Bellatrix shrugged. "I have no clue. I know absolutely nothing so let's hope that Cissy did a good job, otherwise I'll be going in a sack."
Hermione chuckled. "I appreciate that you would still go even if you only had a sack to wear."
"Of course," Bellatrix scoffed. "I asked you as my date, there's no way I would back out of that." She waved her hand flippantly.
Hermione blanched, surprised by the honesty in Bellatrix's words. She remained silent, taking in the moment before offering a shy smile.
"Alright, lovebirds, that's enough," Ginny interrupted with a snicker. "Meet down here in the Great Hall tonight? Whoever gets here first can snag a table."
"Sounds good to me. I'll let Ron know," Harry spoke up and then cast a wary glance at Hermione. "I'm sorry about Ron, Hermione. What he said was bullshit."
Hermione sucked in a breath and offered a tight-lipped smile. "Thanks, Harry."
"If Weasel wants to sulk all night tonight, I say let him," Bellatrix spoke, "if he wants to hang around us then fine but the second he tries to be a prat I'll curse him into next week."
"Of that I have zero doubt," Ginny remarked with a smirk.
"I appreciate your offer," Hermione chimed in, looking at Bellatrix with amusement in her eyes.
Bellatrix met her gaze, a seriousness in them that caused Hermione to shiver at their intensity.
"It's a promise."
Bellatrix eyed the material that clung to her body in all the right places. She was shocked that Narcissa had such an eye for fashion. She never would have guessed that her sister would be such a professional when it came to such things. Her dress was either black or a deep green-she couldn't tell because the dress was almost chameleon depending on the way that the light caught it. It was strapless and hugged her chest nicely—and she donned an emerald pennant that sat just above her cleavage.
A soft knock on her door drew her attention, and she sucked in a deep breath before calling out, "Come in."
The door swung open to reveal Hermione in a scarlet red dress that shimmered with gold when she moved. Her dress had one strap over her right shoulder, and her hair was pulled back in a loose updo—showing off her cheekbones.
Bellatrix found herself speechless. Her mouth opened and closed as she searched for the words.
Hermione shifted uneasily under the silence.
"Is it bad?" Hermione asked hesitantly.
That sprung Bellatrix into action. "Merlin no! It's...you left me speechless."
Hermione smiled brightly. "That is the highest compliment you could give me. You're never at a loss for something to say."
Bellatrix hummed and offered a playful smirk. "Well, there is a first time for everything, pet."
"You look beautiful," Hermione said breathlessly as she looked Bellatrix over.
Bellatrix felt herself flush. No one ever called her beautiful. She was called striking, sultry—but never said with such reverence.
Then Bellatrix took note of Hermione's dress and its color scheme. "You went to Narcissa," she stated.
Hermione blushed and looked at the ground. "Actually she came to me. I did have a different dress but once you had gone to her to do yours she sought me out because she wanted us to contrast but also complement each other."
Bellatrix cocked an eyebrow.
"That's where I was the past few days."
"You were at Cissy's?" Bellatrix asked.
Hermione shifted. "No, I was in the library. She would floo in and meet me there."
Bellatrix snorted. "Oh I bet Pince loved that. She never liked me."
Hermione offered a sweet smile. "Actually she was very supportive of the whole thing. And she did always like you, she just didn't enjoy you using the library as a make out spot for your conquests."
Bellatrix blanched.
"It's fine, Bella. I'm well aware of your...reputation, as a whole." Hermione coughed awkwardly.
Bellatrix grumbled under her breath.
"I have a gift for you. I know typically it's corsages but that isn't exactly your style..." she gestured for the other witch to follow her from the room.
Once they entered the common area, Hermione headed to the coffee table and plucked a box from its surface and presented it to her.
"I hope you like it."
Bellatrix took the box and opened it, her eyes widening when she saw what rested within.
It was the top of a panther skull made from silver with emerald green stones in the eye sockets, and rested on a fine black leather cord.
"Hermione..." Bellatrix trailed off.
"If you don't like it, it's okay..."
"No!" Bellatrix interjected and shook her head. Her curls cascaded over her shoulders and she looked at Hermione sincerely beneath hooded eyes. "I love it. It's perfect."
She reached behind her neck and quickly unclasped the emerald pendant.
"Will you put this on me?" she asked, turning around and lifting her hair with one hand and holding the box out with the other.
Hermione took the box and pulled out the necklace, fully intending to do as Bellatrix asked...then she saw the creamy smooth surface of her back and she forgot how to breathe.
Subconsciously, she reached forward and ran a finger over the pale skin—watching with rapt attention as Bellatrix's muscles twitched beneath her finger.
Hermione snapped back to focus and reached around Bellatrix's front and quickly clasped the necklace for her.
The raven-haired witch turned around and glanced down at her chest. "How does it look?"
Hermione offered a smile. "It looks perfect." She eyed the necklace. "Your future self had a raven skull...and now knowing that your patronus is a panther before...everything...I hope that it will help remind you who you are."
Bellatrix could feel her insecurities clawing up her throat, as well as the need to shy away from all vulnerability. Instead, she pushed through it to ask, "And who is that?"
"Someone who is free to make her own choices," Hermione replied quietly. "Someone that is wanted for who you are...who you really are."
"Who am I?" she found herself asking before she could think better of it.
"Bellatrix Black. A woman who has gone through so much in just the seventeen years she has been alive, and someone who is the only known person in the world to carry the weight of her future decisions and despite that is choosing to be true to herself and be better."
Bellatrix didn't know what to say. Instead, she stepped forward and reached up to clasp Hermione's neck. She pulled her in and crashed their lips together, drawing a moan from Hermione's throat. Hermione eagerly returned the kiss, swiping her tongue against Bellatrix's upper lip and asking entrance.
The raven-haired witch granted it gladly, moaning deep in her throat as her tongue met Hermione's in a dance.
Her heart was racing with excitement and a feeling she couldn't quite place. Her body felt like it was on fire, consumed by lust and tenderness. She wanted to crawl inside Hermione and stay there—protecting her, caring for her, loving her.
The thought snapped Bellatrix back to reality and she slowed their kiss. She could feel Hermione's chest rising and falling rapidly, matching her own uneven breathing. She suppressed the urge to groan at the possibility of wetness between her companion's legs.
After a moment she pulled back and gazed at her from beneath hooded eyes.
"You ready to go?" Bellatrix asked quietly, still reeling from the intensity of their kiss and the thought she had.
Hermione offered her a small smile as a blush coated her cheeks. She cleared her throat. "Yes, let's go and see our friends and have a nice time." She slid her hand down Bellatrix's arm, entranced by the feeling of goosebumps prickling the skin—and threaded her fingers with Bella's.
They walked hand in hand and made their way from the room to the Great Hall. It was decked out in Christmas decorations with snow magically falling from the ceiling—dissipating before it hit any of the patrons. Hermione spotted Harry and Ginny off to the side, talking with Luna, Neville, and Draco.
"There you are," Draco greeted with a smile as they approached. He gave them a once over. "My mother is never one to disappoint on fashion."
"Your mother is also one to never realize when she should butt out," Bella commented with an eye roll before she offered Draco a sly smile. "Which I am eternally grateful for."
Draco chuckled and cast a glance behind him at an approaching figure. "Aunt Bellatrix, there's someone I would like you to meet." He reached out and took the hand that was offered and pulled a brunette girl with brown eyes forward. "Aunt Bellatrix, this is Astoria Greengrass."
Bellatrix's eyebrows rose. "Greengrass? Well done, Draco, you've nabbed someone from one of the Sacred Twenty-eight."
Draco flushed red and coughed lightly behind his hand.
Bellatrix's brow furrowed a moment. "Wait…Greengrass…" she trailed off before her eyes widened and a curious expression overcame her face.
Hermione eyed her companion with concern and looked back and forth between Draco and Bellatrix, and then to her friends who had joined their circle with equal curiosity.
"Oh, dear," Bellatrix breathed out sadly. "Your family has that blood curse."
"Aunt Bellatrix," Draco hissed.
Astoria swayed on her feet but held a hand up to Draco. "It's alright."
"Blood curse?" Harry chimed in quietly as the group huddled closer.
"How do you know of the curse?" Astoria asked softly.
Bellatrix waved a hand. "It was well known in the Black family. We are distantly related after all…along with the Lestranges," she finished with a sneer. "The blood curse is one of the reasons why we never married into your family line." She didn't say it cruelly, just with a voice that was matter of fact.
Astoria shifted uncomfortably.
"Don't fret, love, I commend Draco on sticking it to the family traditions." Bellatrix looked away and eyed the room with disinterest.
Draco's eyebrows rose. "You do?"
"Of course," she replied, still looking away. "I'm dating a muggle-born who just so happens to be another woman…I hardly think I would be one to judge on loving someone." She looked back to her nephew and offered a sly smile. "Does Cissy know?"
Draco was still trying to process his aunt's sentence, which was rather loaded.
Hermione could feel her heart hammering in her chest at what Bellatrix said…did she mean that she was in love with her? Or was it just a phrasing of words? She cast a glance over at Ginny who was giving her a cocky smile, and she was sure the redhead was thinking the same thing. She rolled her eyes at her friend and grumbled a little under her breath before turning back to Bellatrix and Draco.
Draco shook himself from his thoughts. "She doesn't," he replied with a heavy sigh. "I was actually hoping that you might help there."
Bellatrix cocked an eyebrow. "How so?"
"Keep her from losing it."
Bellatrix hummed thoughtfully. "I see. You're worried she will disapprove because of the curse."
"More so now than ever since you were aware of it as soon as you heard the name," Draco replied sadly.
"Chin up, love, I'll be happy to help you and your girlfriend woo Cissy." Bellatrix flipped her curls over her shoulder. "Merlin knows your mother is trying to be better about things so I will happily remind her of that. Although, I don't know if you'll have to worry much about it once the timeline resets."
Everyone stilled at that.
Bellatrix eyed the group. "What?"
"So you're sure it will reset?" Harry questioned.
His eyes lit up for the first time since…well, Hermione hadn't seen him look so hopeful since before Sirius died.
Bellatrix eyed him like he had three heads. "I'm certainly not going to condemn everyone I love to a timeline where I have caused so much trauma and thoroughly ruined lives…oh and where I got murdered by Molly Prewett of all people—no offense, Ginny," she said confidently.
Ginny nodded in understanding.
"I think that's lovely," Luna piped up with a dreamy smile.
Hermione tightened her grip on Bellatrix's hand, unintentionally drawing the raven-haired witch's eyes to her own.
Bella's gaze softened as their eyes met. She knew what a reset in the timeline would mean…and how it would impact them both especially…but she couldn't do that to Hermione. She couldn't leave her in a timeline where she had caused so much suffering—had caused her suffering. Even if that meant she wouldn't remember her. Her heart broke at the thought and she sucked in a quick breath.
"Thank you for being willing to help, Aunt Bellatrix," Draco interrupted. He could see the emotion threatening to break on Hermione's face and was desperate to keep his aunt from saying something that would further upset her date.
"I appreciate it as well, Bellatrix," Astoria said softly. She offered a small smile.
"So, when are you bringing her home?" Bellatrix asked, mask sliding back in place.
"Christmas, actually." Draco put his arm around her and smiled.
Bellatrix hummed and smirked. "Well, Christmas will be very interesting this year."
"Thanks again. Now, I'm going to go and get something to drink. Would anyone else like something?" Draco asked the group.
Everyone had requested some punch so he and Astoria headed off to retrieve it.
Hermione gave Bellatrix's hand a squeeze, drawing dark pools to her own.
"Did you mean that?" Hermione asked her softly. The rest of the group went back to their own conversation, leaving the two with a moment of privacy.
"About the timeline?"
Hermione nodded carefully.
"I did. When I return I have every intention of not joining Voldemort," Bella answered seriously, hoping that her words carried the sincerity that she intended.
Hermione offered her a small smile filled with hope and Bella felt her chest open up at the sight. She thought she might swoon. Instead, she glanced down at Hermione's lips and leaned in. She kissed her sweetly for just a moment, before pulling back and lightly touching her forehead with her own.
"Hey," Ginny interrupted. "Not to break up the love fest but Draco is returning with punch and I want to snag a table." Her eyes landed on a vacant table that would fit them all. "Oh!" she exclaimed and took off quickly.
They all followed after and sat down to drink their punch and talk.
Bellatrix listened intently to their stories of the last Yule ball that was held before everything went to absolute madness.
Her eyes flashed dangerously when Krum's name was brought up in a conversation about past Yule dates.
Hermione glanced at her companion and nudged her. "Don't be jealous," Hermione whispered. "You've had more conquests than everyone at this table combined," she teased.
Bellatrix fixed her with a serious gaze. "You aren't a conquest."
Hermione's eyes widened slightly, unprepared to be reassured, and unsuspecting that Bellatrix would say so right here. She was constantly surprising her.
"Everyone," Ron greeted as he arrived at the table.
The sound of his voice doused Hermione and Bellatrix in a feeling of cold. Bellatrix fixed him with a hard stare that had him nervously fidget as he sat next to Harry.
"Bellatrix," Ron greeted.
"Weasel," she replied tersely.
The group eyed them—and Draco, clearly lost on what had happened to make them all look anxiously between the two, turned to his date and asked for a dance.
"Actually, that's a wonderful idea," Bellatrix commented, watching her nephew lead his girlfriend to the dance floor. She looked to Hermione. "Would you like to dance?"
Hermione beamed and nodded, quickly standing and pulling Bellatrix to the dance floor. There was a slow song playing from the band, and they stopped a few feet away from where Draco and Astoria were dancing.
Bella placed her hands on Hermione's hips, as the brunette's arms snaked around her neck. The gesture came easily, and Bellatrix wondered when the ease of it all had actually occurred.
"Are you okay?" Bella asked softly.
Hermione smiled brightly. "I had the most beautiful woman in school ask me to be her date, got to kiss her—finally—and am currently pressed against her dancing. I am more than okay, Bella," Hermione answered truthfully. Her hand left its position on her neck and threaded into the curls at the base of Bella's head. She lightly scratched the spot—a pleased smile on her face when a light moan rumbled in Bellatrix's chest.
Bellatrix smirked at Hermione's words. "Well I am rather enticing," she husked, leaning in close to Hermione's ear. "Don't think I haven't noticed you staring at my cleavage."
Hermione's breath caught in her throat at Bellatrix's breath caressing the sensitive spot by her ear. She felt heat rise up her neck and then spread lower, sitting in her abdomen.
Hermione somehow managed to find her voice, "I think they've been staring at me."
Bellatrix chuckled hotly next to her ear. "Well, I can hardly blame them for…" she trailed off, brushing her nose against Hermione's cheek slowly before finishing, "wanting your attention."
She pulled back, looking like the cat that ate the canary at Hermione's blushing cheeks and the rapid rise and fall of her chest.
Bellatrix laughed as Hermione shook her head at her. She grew serious then and pulled Hermione close. "I just want you to know that no matter how desperately I want you, I won't do anything you aren't ready for or comfortable with."
"I know, Bella," Hermione replied immediately. There was never a doubt in her mind that this Bellatrix would respect her boundaries. Hermione fidgeted slightly. "I…" she trailed off, suddenly very nervous.
"What is it?" Bellatrix asked softly as the song ended and another began.
"I've never had sex before," Hermione breathed out quickly.
Bellatrix's eyes widened slightly before she reached up and cupped Hermione's face. "Okay. We go as slow as you'd like."
Hermione leaned into the touch and sighed. Her heart felt like it was going to burst at the tenderness Bellatrix showed her. She turned her head slightly and kissed the palm against her. Hazel eyes fluttered shut before opening to meet dark chocolate gazing at her with a softness that made Hermione's knees weak.
Then there was an awkward cough near them and both women turned to eye a nervous Ron.
"I was hoping I could dance with 'mione?" Ron said before adding quickly, "I just want to talk."
Bellatrix sneered. "Why on earth would I let you do that after the load of rubbish you said to her the other day?"
Hermione placed a hand on Bella's shoulder. "It's okay." She rubbed a soothing circle on Bellatrix's arm, but the raven-haired witch merely eyed Ron with a look that frightened even her.
Bellatrix looked at Hermione. "I'll be right at the table if you need me," she said, fixing Ron with another pointed look that dared him to try anything. Then she was off, gliding through the people and back to the table.
Hermione placed a hand on Ron's shoulder as his hands rested on her waist. "What did you want to talk about?"
Ron sighed. "I wanted to apologize for being such a git. I was really hopeful that we could try since things between us all have been going well. It was really shitty of me to say those things to you. I knew it would hurt you and that's why I said it. I was jealous and hurt, but that didn't make it okay to talk to you like that. You're one of my best friend's, 'mione." He looked at her sadly, a hopeful sparkle in his eye. "I understand that nothing is going to happen between us, and I accept that. I still want to be your friend and I hope you can forgive me."
Hermione smiled. "I forgive you."
Ron beamed and hugged her tight before pulling back once more. "So…you and a Death Eater." He flashed a smile, showing her it was all in good fun.
"So it would seem," Hermione replied.
"How'd it happen?"
"Gradually over these past few months. Your sister and Luna have had noticed it long before either of us did."
Ron scoffed. "Ginny was always perceptive. Luna though…I swear she has the gift or something."
Hermione hummed her agreement. "Bella and I only just kissed this week. It's all still new but…"
"But?" Ron pressed.
"I don't know," Hermione shook her head. "She tortured me." She glanced at where the word mudblood was carved into her arm—currently hidden via a glamor. "Her future self did. But this Bella didn't and I just…am falling for her."
Ron nodded in understanding. "It sounds like you can separate the two but are baffled that you can at all considering…"
"Exactly," Hermione breathed out. "I just…when I'm with her it's like everything stands still. I've never felt like this and it's scary but exhilarating."
Ron offered a small smile. "It sounds like you're really invested in her."
"I am," she replied with a light chuckle.
"Well," Ron began before stepping back and giving Hermione a twirl. He pulled her back in. "Then I think you should enjoy this rest of the year to the fullest with her…I know you don't like to talk about the resetting. But, I don't doubt Bellatrix will find a way to make sure you remember her."
Hermione felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes. "You think so?"
Ron laughed. "Hermione, I can feel the daggers at my head. There is absolutely no way she would go back without finding a solution for you to retain your memories of her."
Hermione glanced to the side at their table. Bellatrix was talking with their group, but her eyes kept drifting back to Ron—watching him like a hawk assessing its prey. It gave her hope that Bellatrix would in fact do what Ron said.
"She is glaring rather intensely," Hermione confirmed with a laugh.
Ron grinned. "Oh believe me I know." He grew serious. "She's not pressuring you though right?"
Hermione blushed. "Not at all. She's…can I be honest?" Hermione asked, still blushing.
Ron nodded. "Of course."
"She's so considerate with me and I don't doubt she means every word of it. It's just…she's so different from the Bellatrix we knew. I feel so safe with her and…I feel loved," Hermione breathed wistfully. "I don't know if she loves me or is falling or just cares for me so much…but I can feel it in her words and touches."
Ron nodded, letting her know he was listening and refusing to interrupt Hermione's thoughts.
"God I don't want her to leave, Ron," Hermione said quietly, tears pricking her eyes.
"Hey, hey," Ron soothed, pulling her close and hugging her. "It's going to be okay, 'mione. Look…I know Bellatrix and I don't get along and let's be honest one of the main reasons I'm passing my classes is because of you and Harry," he chucked, "but I'll help find a way for you to remember her if that's what you want."
Hermione pulled back, eyes wide and glistening. "Really?"
"Really," Ron confirmed.
Hermione was about to thank him when Bellatrix appeared at her side. Her hand snaking possessively and protectively around Hermione's waist as dark eyes narrowed on Ron.
"What did you say?" Bellatrix asked. Her voice was low and dangerous, sending a chill up Hermione's spine.
"Bella, nothing," Hermione defended immediately.
Ron looked terrified as he took a step back.
Her gaze strayed from the redhead. "You're crying," Bella said pointedly, eyes softening when they met Hermione's shimmering orbs.
Hermione beamed. "They're happy tears, Bella. Ron was just offering to help find a way for me to retain my memories of you…of us…once the timeline resets."
Bellatrix had the decency to look floored. Then her eyes narrowed on him with suspicion.
Ron held his hands up defensively. "I swear there are no ulterior motives. I want 'mione to be happy. She deserves it, and if you make her happy then that's enough for me. As long as you treat her well," he added seriously. "And if you want her to remember your time here I'm willing to help out."
Bellatrix's eyebrow quirked as she mulled over what he said. Then she looked to Hermione who was looking…hopeful.
"Do you want to remember me and my time here? Do you think it will be wise?" Bellatrix asked carefully. When Hermione's eyes fell she quickly grasped her chin. "Look at me, pet," she commanded softly. Once Hermione's eyes met hers she continued, "I want nothing more than you to remember us. I will live the rest of my life knowing you…knowing you're out in the world and never knowing if our paths will cross. You remembering me gives me hope too but as much as I want it…is it what you feel will be best for you?"
Hermione sucked in a breath as she thought over everything Bellatrix said. She hadn't expected her night at the Yule Ball to be so heavy but she was excited by the prospect. The timeline resetting still filled her with dread…but there was a hope where there wasn't before. She was still floored by the softness with which Bellatrix told her what she wanted, but also made clear it was Hermione's decision in the end.
Her chest blossomed with warmth at it and took in the flash of insecurity behind dark eyes.
"Yes," Hermione replied immediately, eyes hardening with determination. "I want to remember all of this."
Bellatrix nodded. "You can change your mind at any time," she added for good measure.
Hermione could see the breath Bellatrix had been holding, release between her lips as her chest fell.
"Now," Ron interjected. "I think we should party and lift all this heaviness." He looked to Bellatrix. "Fancy a competition?" He pulled out a bottle of firewhiskey from under his robes.
Bellatrix's eyes lit up like Christmas morning had come.
"You know, Weasley, maybe you aren't so bad after all," she said with a smirk.
"You called me Weasley," Ron pointed out, clearly surprised.
Bellatrix rolled her eyes and quickly cast a glamor over the bottle, making it look like the non-alcoholic bottles that resided on the punch table. "Don't get used to it. You've placated me with my favorite."
Hermione chuckled as Bellatrix pulled her along to the table with Ron in tow. When they returned, their group all eyed them curiously. They had seen Bellatrix swoop in on Ron and had been waiting to see what would happen, rather anxiously.
"Told you she wouldn't kill him," Draco said, matter-of-factly. He held his hand out to Ginny and opened and closed it. "Pay up."
Hermione huffed. "Ginny, I'm beginning to think you have a gambling problem."
Ginny grumbled as she handed Draco a chocolate frog.
"I see we are still in first year, betting with candy," Bellatrix snickered as she sat down next to Hermione. Her hand reached for hers, threading their fingers together with ease.
Hermione felt a blush creep up her neck. Every time she felt Bellatrix's hand in hers it made her heart flutter pleasantly. There was something else though. The feeling that coiled in her belly was back, thinking about what else Bellatrix's fingers could do.
She knew there wasn't any rush, and that Bellatrix wouldn't force her to do anything she wasn't ready for. But Hermione never felt like this about someone before. She never felt desire so strongly—the thought of Bellatrix's fingers inside her with her breasts pressed against her own, mouths gasping for air and breathy moans escaping…
"Pet," Bellatrix whispered in her ear.
Hermione felt herself grow wet and she shifted uncomfortably.
"Are you well?" Bellatrix asked.
Hermione turned her head, expecting Bellatrix to be smirking triumphantly. But, instead, and leaving Hermione surprised as always, she was eyeing her with unabashed concern.
"You're flushed," Bella explained, her free hand coming to feel Hermione's neck. "You aren't feverish though."
Hermione offered her a sweet smile before leaning in close. She felt bold and decided to hell with it. "It's not that kind of heat, Bella."
Bellatrix's eyes darkened considerably and Hermione could've sworn she heard a growl.
"Having inappropriate thoughts, pet?" Bellatrix breathed.
Hermione simply brushed her mind against Bella's. She had been practicing her legilimency. Bellatrix invited her in with no resistance and Hermione showed her exactly what she had been imagining.
Bellatrix sucked in a sharp breath and Hermione could feel her desire through their connection. It made her light headed.
As much as I desperately want my fingers buried in you, we are in public with friends, love. They're staring, Bellatrix thought through their connection.
Hermione chuckled and withdrew, pleased that Bellatrix seemed as riled as she was. But the raven-haired beauty was right. Her heart fluttered pleasantly at Bella's use of 'love' but she shook it off when she heard someone say her name.
"What?" Hermione asked, trying to make her breathing seem normal.
"You're flushed, Hermione," Luna pointed out, "Do you feel okay?"
Hermione smiled. "Yeah, Luna. Just a little hot."
"Yeah for Bellatrix," Ginny said lowly so only Hermione could hear.
She spun in her chair and eyed her friend a moment.
"I believe Weasley suggested a drinking competition?" Bellatrix changed the subject as she poured herself a glass of the firewhiskey. She passed the bottle so everyone could fill a glass.
"Out right or do we want to do a 'drink when…' deal?" Harry asked as he filled his glass.
Hermione felt happy.
The feeling caught her off guard briefly. She was here surrounded by her friends, all having a good time with each other after the hellish war they fought. Where they had lost so many loved ones and classmates. Many at the hands of the Death Eater that was seated next to her, and who Hermione was rapidly falling for. She refused to think of the timeline resetting anymore tonight. Instead, she wanted to bask in this night.
"Definitely a drink when," Bellatrix said as she grabbed her glass. She began setting the rules, easily calling out everyone's habits that are expected so that eventually they would be drinking because of it.
"Drink every time Bellatrix and Hermione get lost in each other's eyes," Ginny added.
Bellatrix's grin was all teeth. "Are you trying to get hammered?"
Ginny busted out laughing and they all settled into a routine. They'd be mid-convo and someone would call out. "Hermione's going off about school, drink."
"Bellatrix called Ron a git, drink."
"Harry mentioned quidditch, drink."
"Ron's fear of spiders, drink."
"Luna mentioned nargles, drink."
They danced through the night as well, rather drunkenly, and were getting some pointed looks from McGonagall.
"I think the cat knows," Bellatrix said over the rim of her glass before finishing her drink.
Everyone turned and looked to the headmistress.
McGonagall was looking at them with a knowing look. They feared they had been busted, but then a small smirk graced her face and she nodded to them before returning to a previous conversation.
"I'd have rioted if she told us to stop," Bella commented with a chuckle.
"Why's that, auntie? Because she'd touch your precious firewhiskey?" Draco asked jokingly. Astoria rolled her eyes at him before clinking her glass against his.
Bellatrix quirked an eyebrow. "No, because she'd have to be a right prick to deny you lot some fun after the hell you went through. There's no one else in the Wizarding World that deserves to celebrate more than you all."
Harry's eyes were on her, looking fondly. "Can't disagree there."
"I think not, Potter," Bella replied with a smile.
Draco and Astoria said their goodbye's before long, as the hour was late and the ball was coming to an end. Harry and Ron left shortly after, helping a drunk Ginny from the Great Hall before any of the professors could see.
Luna and Neville were next, leaving Hermione and Bellatrix.
"Ready to head back?" Bella asked as she stood from her seat and offered her hand to Hermione.
She was drunk, but she could tell that Hermione was somewhere between ready to party still and falling asleep at any moment.
Hermione eyed her. "I 'spose."
Bellatrix chuckled and helped her up. "Come on, love."
Hermione threw an arm over Bella's neck while the raven-haired witch's arm encircled her waist.
Bellatrix led her from the Great Hall and toward their room. She glanced at Hermione, smiling softly at just having the other witch so close. They arrived to their room in silence and Hermione immediately started trying to get the dress off.
"Do you want help?" Bellatrix asked as she watched Hermione struggle comically.
Hermione turned and pouted. "I can't reach the clasp."
Bella moved forward and undid the clasp, pulling the zipper down far enough so Hermione could finish unzipping.
"You don't want to take it off me?" Hermione questioned boldly.
Bellatrix sucked in a breath. "More than anything…but us being intoxicated is not the time, love." She cupped Hermione's cheek. "I want to make sure you remember every moment."
Hermione smiled and leaned in, capturing Bella's lips in a gentle kiss. She pulled back then, looking to the ground uncertainly.
"What?" Bella questioned.
"Would you want to sleep with me tonight?" Hermione's eyes widened and quickly amended. "I mean just sleep."
Bella chuckled hotly near her ear. "Of course, pet. Go change and I'll do the same. My room or yours?"
"Yours," Hermione replied easily.
"You don't mind being surrounded by so much Slytherin pride?" Bellatrix asked; an eyebrow raised questioningly.
Hermione bit her lip. "It all smells like you…"
Bella felt her heart clench deliciously at that. She wondered when she had begun to feel so consumed by Hermione, but couldn't pin it down. She deduced that she had been falling since their first interaction when she arrived.
"Of course," Bella replied easily. She shooed her off as she retreated to her room, magically removing her makeup and quickly changing her clothing.
She set to unmaking her bed and when she was almost finished she heard the soft padding of feet enter the room. She turned and caught Hermione's eye, smiling when she took note of the short-shorts on her lower half, and the tank top on her upper.
Bellatrix had already lit the fireplace in her room to heat the room to a comfortable temperature.
"Ready?" Bellatrix asked as she came around the bed.
Hermione's eyes were dark and focused on Bellatrix's chest, shamelessly roaming over every piece of ivory skin that was visible from the black, silk nightdress she wore.
"You should be illegal," Hermione commented breathlessly.
Bellatrix hummed as she took Hermione's hand and led her around to her side of the bed.
"Thank you," she said as she ushered Hermione in. "I expect you to be on your best behavior."
Hermione pouted. "Not even a goodnight kiss?"
Bellatrix laughed as she crawled on top of Hermione and kissed her passionately. She pulled back and rolled off her, leaving a breathless Hermione in her wake.
She shimmied under the covers and pulled Hermione to her, cupping her cheek gently.
"I mean what I said. Best behavior, love," Bellatrix whispered. "We will certainly have our time, but I don't want it to be clouded by a haze of alcohol. Not for you, not ever."
Hermione sighed contently and leaned in to kiss the other witch softly. "Goodnight, Bella."
"Goodnight, love."
A/N: I hope you all liked! Don't forget to review!