"So, you and Theo bought a private beach and rent it out?"
Hermione asked, walking next to Draco on the sidewalk of Wizarding Brazil. After portkeying them, she had an abundance of questions of where they were, what beach they were going to, if they were visiting his other club, to which Draco revealed the beach was actually his. The beach which was of course renamed 'Cherry Pit Cove' and the first of his entrepreneur expeditions. He and Theo had purchased the land, offering a private and luxurious experience to Wizarding tourists.
"Yes and then some. The beach is warded, you pay for spots which you can rent out for half a day or a full day. You can buy package deals which gives you unlimited drinks and food too." Draco explained, eyes carefully overlooking the small street they were roaming on. Plenty of people were out and about during the nice weather and he found himself glaring at any man who's stare lingered a little too long at the witch beside him.
"That's brilliant. What's going to be next for you then?" Hermione questioned, still amazed by how thoughtful and innovative Draco was with his work. He gave a small smile, his chest swelling with pride at her compliment.
"Well I mentioned Barcelona, but that's not even a possibility for at least another five years. But I'm happy with how much work I have with Paris and London right now. I can tinker and experiment with those clubs for a bit before looking for more to add on my plate." He responded.
"Do people find it odd that your career isn't a conventional one?" Hermione asked, somewhat curious as to what his parents think of his businesses. Draco paused for a moment, somewhat caught off guard by her question but more so that she was interested enough to ask.
"I mean, Blaise and Theo are obviously supportive. Theo was the one that really pushed me to invest in my ideas, that's why he owns the beach with me. I think he knew I was…unsure if it was going to be successful so he offered to go half so I wouldn't lose money all on my own." Draco gave a small chuckle, raising a darkened hand to his forehead and pushing the longer hair out of his eyes. Hermione quite liked when he'd push his hair out of his face, half slicked back, half messy in front, he was too bloody attractive for his own good.
"And…your parents? Are they supportive of it all?" She tentatively asked, tilting her head to look up at him as they continued their walk.
"They were happy when I became a potions master. I worked in a small apothecary for a bit but was so bored and unhappy. I didn't tell them my ambitions until they asked why I withdrew so much money from Gringotts." He laughed again, shaking his head at the memory.
"Eventually I explained my and Theo's goal for Brazil and my ideas for possible clubs. They were displeased of course, but within the last few years it's been taking off and bringing a lot of revenue in for myself, so they keep quiet about it. Honestly as long as I'm staying out of trouble and making my own money, I think they're okay with it."
Hermione raised her eyebrows, slightly surprised he told his parents about his endeavors. "So, they know about the club in Paris?"
Draco tilted his head back and laughed, a large hand resting on his stomach as the sound filled the air around them. Hermione looked at him, admiring the way his cheeks moved when he smiled wide.
"Merlin no. Gods I hope they never find out. They'd probably berate me and threaten my life. They're not exactly modern individuals." His shoulders bounced as he calmed his laughing down, but the last part of his sentence made her frown. It was a cold reminder, one she conveniently shoved aside every time they were together.
"Yeah, I'm aware." She bit back coldly, head turning away from him and to the beaches beside her.
Draco looked down at her, mentally cursing himself for his poor choice of words. There wasn't much he could say to defend his parents, they were extremely proper purebloods with old views. Of course after the war they softened into more lenient ideas, but even that statement was a stretch. They wouldn't openly speak of their distastes for muggles or how they have been essentially ostracized by the Wizarding community. They've accepted their pasts, grateful for the opportunity to be left alone and move on, but Draco would be lying if he said their views had changed completely.
It was uncomfortable, and Draco felt like if he weren't to say something now, their time would be spoiled and she wouldn't want to spend the afternoon together.
"Granger," He said, trying to catch her attention but her head remained turned away from him, "I...I understand if what I'm about to say doesn't mean anything, but they are different and trying. And they also don't influence me. I'm—I'm different from them, I've changed, in every way."
Hermione glanced at him, face extremely serious and stone, she wondered if he was holding his breath. Looking forward at the pavement in front of her, she sighed once and momentarily bit her tongue. She knew he was different, but hearing of his parent's struck a hard nerve and she hardly believed they were attempting to be model citizens. The conversation had turned bitter and though she didn't need to say anything, she couldn't, it wasn't like her to hold back. But taking in his expression, she could clearly see he was pleading for her to differentiate him between his parents and his past. She has, but that didn't mean it sometimes didn't hit her like a cold crashing wave.
"I know you are. That's easy to see." She told him, offering a half smile to him which instantly made his shoulders relax. "So, how much further is the cove?"
Draco, grateful for her changing the subject, pointed to the three huts about a half block in front of them, a wide open beach with calming waves and zero people populating it behind them. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a packet of gum and popped a piece into his mouth.
"Just there. Now I forgot to mention one tiny little detail." He admitted, always seeming to wait until the very last minute to unveil important details to ensure the little witch won't run away. Hermione rolled her eyes, such a Slytherin.
"What? Is it a nude beach?" She joked. Draco was silent for multiple beats, his jaw flexing sharply with every chew of the gum, lips pursed together as he waited for her to look at him. Hermione snapped her head to him, seeing the cheeky expression and gasped. "No way! Malfoy! You always do this!"
Draco couldn't help but snicker at the reaction, her pouting and sudden burst reminded him of a child's tantrum. She was…cute when flustered.
"Swimwear is optional at this beach. Why do you think it's completely warded? Not all tourists want onlookers." He explained, laughing again when she huffed and crossed her arms.
"Well I'm keeping my suit on." She defiantly said and they approached one of the huts. Draco amusedly shook his head then turned his attention to the man working the hut, giving him a wave and a genuine smile. Hermione thought it was charming how kind he was to his employees, she found it endearing every time he'd chat them up and give them his attention and respect.
They were given special bracelets that would let them pass through the wards and alerted the staff what type of guests they were as Draco explained. Hermione assumed that, as an owner, they would be receiving extra special treatment today. Draco mindlessly found Hermione's hand, interlacing their fingers together and tugging her through the entrance and into the wards.
Hermione took in her surroundings, noticing cabanas, umbrella set ups and lounge chairs, there was a main bar where people were sitting at, a small dance floor connected, and of course, people walking along the beach, witches topless, wizards in extremely short suits and those few who decided to be completely bare while lying in their designated area. She couldn't help but to blush hard and avert her gaze to the white sand and how it contrasted the galactic patterns on Draco's arm. She made a mental note to ask him about all his tattoos today.
Draco looked down at her curly head, face hidden behind her hair and gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "It's okay to look, everyone that comes here is very friendly."
"I don't want to make any friends today, I'm okay." She mumbled into the ground, making Draco chuckle.
He brought them to a cabana and led them inside, a double joined lounge chair that almost looked like a bed, two side tables each holding a fruity and colorful drink, a massive bowl of fruit, towels on the chair and a basket with assorted items.
Hermione looked down, noticing their hands still connected and awkwardly pulled it away, taking a step forward to inspect the room. It was large, that was to be expected, but very modest nonetheless, something she enjoyed. Turning around to look at him, she crossed her arms over her chest and poked out her hip.
"What's the point of going to a beach and remaining inside the whole time?"
Draco smirked and snapped his fingers, the cabana promptly folded itself until it was a neat square, laying on the ground behind their lounge chair.
"Better?"
Hermione hastily looked around, seeing half naked people lounging many meters away from them and almost asked him to put the cabana back up. But instead she looked him in the eye and lifted her chin up.
"Much."
"Thoughts? I'm sure you have a few choice opinions on this place." Draco walked over to the lounge chair, sitting on the edge and grabbing the slushy drink, he crossed one ankle over the other and brought a hand behind his head, making the muscles on his bicep bulge with the movement. He looked so calm and in his element, pleasantly enjoying himself as if he were on holiday.
"It's…different." Draco snorted and Hermione narrowed her eyes. "I mean it's clever, like all the things you do apparently. Though I don't see why it has to be a nude beach, what's wrong with a regular one?"
Draco sipped his drink and raised a brow. "I market to the culture and an adult age group. And there's a large market for private beaches here."
Hermione took a seat on the opposite edge as well, moving sand around with her sandal and looking out to the ocean in front of her, Draco's legs beside her. "So are all your business ventures catered around sex? Seems a little primitive and extremely boyish of you."
"Sex sells. But I'd like to think my businesses offer the chance for individuals to discover something new, take them out of their comfort zone, give them an opportunity to let loose, have fun, find something they enjoy that they normally wouldn't. Does this all sound familiar?"
Hermione looked at him over her shoulder, fighting off a smirk as he winked at her over his drink. She shook her head.
"Pompous arse." She mumbled under her breath, grinning when she heard his laugh, taking pride that she caused it.
"Don't be mad at me because I'm a creative genius. You should be thanking me anyways." Draco started sitting up and scooting to the edge of the chair where Hermione sat. She leaned back leisurely on her palms.
"Oh yeah? Why's that?"
Draco gave her a cheeky look, and leaned back to match her position. He crossed one arm over hers, making their shoulders touch in their rested position. Draco could see the small freckles that dusted over the skin on her nose and cheeks and thought them very appealing. Their faces weren't too far away, Hermione could make out the flecks of blue in his eyes.
"Because you've liked everything we've done so far. You'd be lying if you say differently." He told her, watching her eyelashes flutter against her cheek. She composed herself and threw him a confident smirk, his stomach tightened at the sight.
"I like not having to pay for drinks, clothes or travel costs." She corrected.
"So you're just using me?" Draco replied, eyes dancing with hers.
"Yep." She had to look away, his face seemed to move closer to hers. She could smell his cologne.
"You wound me. Here I thought you might have actually started to enjoy my company." Draco joked, but something felt slightly truthful in the assessment. He was curious of her answer, knowing she'd give an equally joking response that was safe.
"Not at all. Knowing you is convenient so I'm able to exploit your wealth and business, but your presence is hardly pleasurable." As soon as the word left her mouth, she cursed herself for the choice. She tried to play it off, like the word didn't affect her, but it certainly affected him.
She felt him leaning into her, his lips right at her ear, blowing his warm, minty breath onto her with every exhale, she shivered even in the hot air of Brazil. Her eyes glued on the ocean, too afraid to make any sudden movements.
"Hardly pleasurable still implies you find me somewhat pleasurable, Granger."
His voice was dangerously low, she felt it in the pits of her stomach. Her head swayed towards his mouth and she heard him let out a pleased growl before his lips delicately suckled the skin of her lobe, pulling it between his teeth. Suddenly aware they were in public, she pulled back, his lips making a smacking sound as they disconnected from her skin.
She gave him a bewildered expression, and for a moment, she thought she saw a pained emotion flash through his eyes. Whatever it was, he quickly covered it with a face that asked her what she was so concerned about, but he already knew the answer.
"We're—sorry we're just in—"
"Public I'm aware." Draco finished for her. "We've been in public before, it hasn't been a problem before." He stated but it sounded more like a question.
Hermione didn't know why she reacted so flippantly, he was correct after all. They've done more in public than just that, so it shouldn't be a problem. Maybe it was because Ginny telling her it means something more that he wanted to spend time with her during the day was replaying in her head, and him already trying to make a move proved her theory wrong. And with that realization, it oddly made her sad and feel like a play thing rather than someone he actually wants to spend time with.
"But," Draco cut off her thoughts, "I can keep my hands and mouth to myself. Whatever you want, Granger, just say the word. I am a gentleman you know." And just like always, he took the lead, surprising her with his ability to make everything feel normal and light hearted when she'd feel unsure of herself. It was a trait she has come to rely on more times than she truly realized.
"Only sometimes." She responded, lips twitching up at him.
"Only sometimes." He agreed and stood up, grabbing the drink left on the table. "Here try this. Tell me what you think."
Looking at the red and orange slush mixed together in a special glass, she wondered what type of concoction it was. Taking the drink from his hand she brought it up to her mouth, a pleasant combination of multiple citruses hit her taste buds. She licked her lips, loving the way the cool beverage slid down her throat.
"Very good, another one of your creations?" She turned her head at the exact moment Draco decided to remove his t-shirt. Her breath caught in her throat, his sculpted body and defined muscles still surprised her. He had uncharacteristically worn swimming trunks that were impossibly short, revealing his upper thigh muscles, clenching with every step, and a see through white T-shirt. She was giddy for the moment he'd finally take it off, and now that he has, she had half a mind to ask him to put it back on and take it off once more.
"Yes, an alcoholic beverage made with sun protection. No little bits burning on my beach." He explained, a small grin on his face.
"I assume that you have different drinks for different places and needs, so what else is offered here?" Hermione asked, sliding her sandals off her feet and wriggling her body back a bit so her legs hung off the sides of the chair.
"Well, for the beach there's the sunscreen one that's our most popular, pepper up potions included in any drink you just have to ask, there's one that actually soothes sunburns too, it seems my shot creations are the most popular here too as they are in London." Draco explained as he moved back into an upright lying position. Hermione turned her body, one leg bent under her, her knee brushing against his thigh.
"Are you working on anything new now?" She asked as she sipped on her drink and bit into the speared piece of pineapple from the garnish stick.
"Possibly, but I can't share. Don't want you running off, selling my secrets to my competitors."
"You really are Willy Wonka." Hermione mused.
"Ah right. The chocolate maker from the muggle story. I've just gotten to the part where the chubby boy gets stuck in a tube." Draco said, making Hermione snap her eyes to him.
"You—you bought the book?"
"Yeah. Was a little curious after you mentioned it to see the similarities. Though I would never have slaves like he does, a little dark for a children's book." Draco explained nonchalantly, reaching for a cherry from the fruit bowl next to him.
Hermione stared for a moment, still in shock that he would remember her reference and even more so that he was interested enough to find the book. Something warmed in her stomach, an odd feeling she couldn't quite place. She was staring too long at him, he had raised his eyebrows as he asked her what. She just shook her head.
"Nothing. How do you like the book so far?"
"It's certainly interesting, the concept is juvenile but it is a children's book. Willy Wonka seems a bit off though, what's his deal?"
This made her laugh. His skepticism was hilarious considering it was a beloved story by many. "I can't tell you, just read. The sequel is very interesting if you decide to pursue that too."
"No offense but I think I'll pass once I'm done with the chocolatier. Don't know how much child exploitation I can take." He huffed and Hermione snorted.
She was half way done with her drink when Draco sat up and filled it back up to the brim. She gave him a look and he just shrugged as he sat back down. He made some comments about enjoying the day and having fun but she didn't protest.
"I have to admit, I thought this place would have gotten a bigger reaction out of you." Draco randomly said, eyes scanning the crowd but not particularly landing on anyone for longer than a moment. Hermione looked around, careful to view people's faces rather than bodies, a challenging task.
"Well, though I am somewhat uncomfortable I've taken a rather rational approach to all this." She replied.
"Wouldn't expect anything less, but please share, I'm fascinated."
"Well, being at Hogwarts with roommates I obviously saw my fair share of naked bodies. Plus I live with Ginny and she always changes in front of me despite my constant protests." Hermione laughed. "But everyone is reserved, no one is excessively in my face nor do I have to look so it's not as bad as I originally thought."
"Pleased to hear." He told her. "Interesting tidbit about Weasley. Sounds like Blaise and her have a lot in common."
"Are you saying Blaise has a hard time keeping his clothes on as well?" Hermione was stifling a giggle. Draco closed his eyes and recalled a memory.
"If there were ever parties in the dungeons and Blaise was dared to strip, he'd do it without hesitation. It kind of became his thing. Even now when I go to visit him sometimes he's just walking around his house stark naked. It's unnerving how little he cares about it sometimes." Draco told her, making them both laugh.
"Sounds exactly like Ginny."
"Have to say I wasn't too surprised they were matched from that dating service. He's harbored a crush for some time."
Hermione looked at him with a furrowed brow. Blaise had said the same thing when she first saw him at the Cherry Pit. She found it hard to believe, but Draco confirming it was equally strange to hear.
"Yeah he said that to me. When did this 'crush' even start?" Hermione had uncurled her leg from under her body, feeling the ligament begin to tingle with numbness. She slid back more, but still didn't lean her whole body back against the chair like Draco's, she still wanted some type of distance between them.
"Mm, I'd say before her and golden boy broke up. He'd talk about her team all the time and somehow wind in a snide comment about how she was with him. Then once they broke up he said something that just gave him away. He eventually found out she was trying that dating service so he signed up for it as well. He went on five dates before Weasley, and never even stayed long enough for it to be considered a real date. He kept hoping they'd match and eventually they did. He's quite pathetic actually."
Hermione stared in awe at the explanation and wondered if Blaise had told Ginny of his crush before they started dating. She thought the pining was somewhat sweet, a little odd yes, but sweet nonetheless.
"That's…kind of romantic. But why didn't he just ask her out in person?" Hermione's face felt extremely warm and she looked down at her drink, already half gone again. Damn Malfoy for being an insanely good mixologist. Even with her hair up she could feel sweat begin to form on her neck.
Draco rolled his eyes at the question. "Granger, he liked her. Despite Blaise's reputation, if he's around a girl he likes, he becomes a stuttering fool and is hardly the ladies man people know him to be. Pathetic like I said."
Hermione giggled, finding out the Slytherin that appeared to be so charming and confident around her best friend was the cutest thing. "Well that's very sweet, no matter what you think."
"I'll be sure to tell Blaise that he's charmed yet another Gryffindor. Un-bloody-believable." He huffed stretching his neck higher, attempting to get closer to the sun.
She was feeling loose, her drink almost finished and her cheeks felt excessively warm from the weather. She eyed Malfoy, body relaxed, face calm, slow rises and falls of his defined stomach and chest. What the hell, she was suppose to relax, she couldn't do that if she was sweaty in her clothes. She rose from the couch, and crossed her arms over the tank top she wore and removed it. She shimmied out of her denim shorts and immediately felt better.
Draco watched with a dry mouth as she revealed the red swimsuit she chose to wear. He'd never admit it out loud, but he thought red may be his new favorite color, only if she wore it though. Her bikini was strapless, her bottoms tied on the side and he desperately regretted the no camera policy he enforced on his beach, he'd give anything for a picture of Granger laying in the sand in that tiny red bikini.
To his surprise she sat down beside him, shoulders bumping into his as she got comfortable and grabbed her drink. Her cheeks were a blossoming pink and her eyes seemed a little glossy, she must be feeling the alcohol. He smiled to himself, happy she was easing into the environment and to him.
"I've been meaning to ask what the password is at the Cherry Pit in Paris. I couldn't remember all you said." She said, mouth looking for the straw on her nearly empty drink.
"Why? Thinking of going without me to see Yvonne?" Draco responded with a smirk, something dark glinted in his eyes as well. Hermione blushed and found herself stuttering over her words.
"N-no. I was just…curious." Hermione said, eyes focused down at the way their thighs were touching.
"The password is actually a question. Nonmembers are given the answer to the question and if they can figure out the password, then they are allowed entry." He explained, reaching beside him for a cherry.
"So what's the answer?" Hermione asked, watching as he plucked the stem off the fruit. Draco smirked and placed the stem in his mouth.
"With your tongue." He stated, and she watched his jaw move, the smirk remained and she pondered the answer.
With your tongue. With your tongue. Oh Merlin.
"How do you knot a cherry stem?" She questioned, making Draco smile, revealing the knotted stem between his teeth. He pulled it away and placed it in the bowl.
"Brightest witch of her age strikes again."
"That was easy." She responded, head turning to the ocean.
"It's not meant to stump anybody but I'm glad you know the password, now you just have to learn it in French."
"You'll have to teach me how to say it." Hermione told him, closing her eyes.
"Done."
"And how to tie a cherry stem." She said, slightly smirking to herself as he grew silent. Peaking one eye open as she felt him shift beside her, she watched him grab two cherries and sit up. Hermione moved up the chair, sitting higher against it.
"I don't think it'll be hard for you." He held out one cherry to her as he bit his own off the stem. Eyeing him, she took the cherry from his fingers and stuck out her tongue before enclosing her lips around it and pulling it off the stem, attempting to make a show out of it. Draco stared, his eyes drawn to her lips, shuddering at the memory of her doing something similar to his cock. His member jumped and he unabashedly reached down to adjust himself as he met her eyes. She looked down at his doings then back up to him, caught off guard by his audacity, he smiled.
Draco placed his own stem in his mouth and motioned for Hermione to do the same. They watched each other, appearing to engage in a little friendly competition. Hermione's eyes widened when Draco pulled the knotted stem out of his mouth already and focused harder on trying to get the task done. She could feel the knot, but she just needed to pull it taut before it unraveled in her mouth.
She hesitantly pushed the stem out of her mouth, holding it between her teeth as she triumphantly smiled at Draco, showing her accomplishment. He grinned at her excitement but leaned forward and Hermione almost dropped the stem from her mouth. He captured the other end, taking it in his teeth and pulled back slightly, she could feel his breath on her face, their eyes locked on each other. Satisfied with himself and the reaction he received, Draco released the stem but didn't pull his face away.
"It was perfect, just needed to be a little…tighter."
Hermione looked down at his lips, cherry stem forgotten as it fell onto her chest. Draco leaned down and captured her lips in a dizzying kiss. Their fruity tasting tongues danced together, both seeking control. She sighed into his mouth and her hands found his hair, needing to mess it up. Draco's hand rested on her upper thigh, fingers toying with the strings keeping her bottom together. She suddenly snatched his hand away and pulled from his mouth, giving him the most serious expression she could muster in her buzzed haze.
"I will not be going nude Draco Malfoy. I don't care how many unbelievably delicious drinks you give me." She told him and he tilted his head back to laugh, the sound making her chest spasm with warmth. He hand remained on her thigh, and she thought this must have been the first time it didn't feel excessively cold.
"We'll see about that. Let's finish our pitchers and see how you feel after, eh?" He smirked and Hermione slapped him on the bicep, emitting another laugh from him. He moved away, reaching his arm behind his head and moving his hand closest to her to rest on her thigh. He shut his eyes, grin keeping over his features.
"Oh, Granger you're too fun." He told her, giving her thigh a squeeze. She tried to calm the erratic beating of her heart and not pay attention to the possessive gesture. She settled back into her chair, ultimately reaching to give herself a half pour of her beverage and relaxing under the sun.
"And you're vile." She joked, attempting to sound serious.
"Yeah, but you're still having fun." He shot back, and she stayed quiet, definitely not responding. He peaked an eye open and moved his hand up again, pulling one of the strings on her bottoms. "Aren't you?" He challenged once more, his hand earning a slap.
"Yes you prat I am. Now stop trying to undress me." Draco's hand defeatedly moved back to her thigh.
"Your slap is as hard as I remember Granger." He said and she chortled into her drink.
"Guess some things never change Malfoy." She cheekily said.
"And some things do." He grinned, again peeking at her with one eye. She found herself giving him a different smile, it was thankful and happy. Draco mirrored it and a silent moment passed between them.
When their pitchers were empty, Draco had called for the wait staff to bring over lunch. They were both inebriated, but not excessively drunk, just a good happy drunk, one that made you feel happy to be alive. They ate their empanadas and salad, seating at the opposite ends of the couch chair which was extended to mimic a bed, and discussed Draco's tattoos.
"So what are those flowers, they cover your entire forearm." She gestured to the arm that held his dark mark. He looked down a solemn expression growing over his face as he spoke.
"Daffodils, symbolizes new life, new beginnings. Thought it was fitting to get it on this arm." He explained, looking at the large flowers that flawlessly meshed into his fading dark mark. Hermione looked at his arm, the flowers were more noticeable than his dark mark, they were bold and the thick black lines drew attention to it's dainty detail. They were truly beautiful.
"I like them. I think they may be my favorite piece." She told him honestly. Their eyes flashed to each other's, holding their gaze as something wordlessly was exchanged between them. Understanding, acceptance, forgiveness and more. Draco was the first to look away, reaching to finish his water and Hermione put her plate away off to the side. The food helped her buzz, making her still feel happy but more focused.
"Are you going to get any others? Maybe one in color?" She asked, leaning back on her palms.
"Not in color, I like black and gray. And possibly, maybe on my chest or my back, or leg, haven't decided yet." He explained.
"What would you get?"
"A snake." He grinned like a child and Hermione playfully rolled her eyes.
"Of course."
"I am who I am." He snickered at her.
"Well why not get a bright red cherry? Seems prominent in your life."
Draco raised his eyebrows at her and seriously considered her suggestion. His eyes looked up to his forehead and he bobbed his head from side to side. "Not a bad suggestion."
"That would be interesting to see, a cherry paired with all your dark and meaningful tattoos." She laughed, thinking it would throw off his entire aesthetic.
Draco sat for a minute, mind buzzing with possibilities and wondered if she would bite his bait.
"Tell you what, I'll get the cherry tattoo." He told her and Hermione smiled.
"Really?"
"Absolutely." Draco crawled over to her and Hermione sat frozen with wide eyes. His large hands gripped her waist and yanked her down to where he sat, body slid into his, legs lazily thrown over his thighs as his hands stroked them up and down. "If you take a little topless swim with me."
She gasped and smacked him on the arm and tried wriggling away. Draco of course laughed, and only tightened his arms around her as she turned her body off him. "No, absolutely not you prat! Just get the bloody tattoo I don't even care that much."
She had successfully turned her body but it had unfortunately made it easier for him to pin her to the lounge couch face down, his fingertips digging into her sides made her gasp out a laugh, the feeling tickled.
"Hermione come on." He chuckled, noticing she was giggling and squirming under his touch. "One little swim."
"You take your bottoms off and I might." She challenged back.
"But I'm already half naked." He protested and she groaned as his comment, he laughed, again, bloody prat.
Draco was essentially laying on top of her, his hips pinned hers down and he slightly leaned up so he wouldn't crush her chest. With her excess wiggling, her behind was rubbing up against his front, unbeknownst to her it appeared, and he was beginning to grow stiff. He grabbed her forearms, the only part of her body she could move was her lower half.
"Granger if you keep squirming I'll be forced to ask you to assist with the trouble you've grown." His voice came out in a huff against her ear and he grinded his hips against her arse, making her stop all her movements when she felt his growing arousal. She blushed and remained silent, a part of her hazy mind told her to move against him, just to see what would happen, but another part of her told her that would be opening a door she wasn't sure if she could close.
She stayed still and listened to his breathing for a moment. He traced the outside shell of her ear with his nose, the sensation making her eyes fall shut. "I really need to cool off now, want to join?"
"Only if I get to keep my top on." She sternly told him and she could feel him smile.
"Whatever you want."
He pushed himself off her and she turned over, watching his hand shamelessly adjust his lower region to hide the growing erection, she blushed again, or maybe it was just the heat of the afternoon sun. Rising from the chair, Hermione worriedly looked at their belongings.
"Should we put a protective charm on our things?" She asked, stepping to him as Draco already turned to walk the short distance to the shoreline.
"No need, there's an invisible boundary line that activates when our bracelets are too far away. Our items will be safe." He explained, pointing to the bracelets on their hands.
"Brilliant." Hermione expressed and Draco smiled as their feet padded on the wet sand.
"You say that a lot when I tell you the added measures I've put into my businesses." He observed, they slowly walked into the water, waves crashing into their shins.
"Well you continuously impress me, so I think it should be noted."
"As do you Granger." Malfoy told her, looking down at her and throwing a wink, she shook her head.
When the waves seemed to come up to Hermione's chest they decided to dive in, the salty water refreshing for their bodies and mind. Hermione felt the effects of the alcohol slowly wear off after she ate and now she was almost completely sober. Draco popped to the surface and blew water out of his face before rubbing his hands through his hair. Hermione stared at him, in awe of how beautiful he was.
Draco walked them in a bit, so they could both kneel in the water without the waves crashing over their heads. Of course they argued about Hermione going topless once more.
"You are insufferable."
"Look I'm just saying you've done a lot of momentous things, what's going topless in the water when no one can even see you?" He fired back.
"It's getting out of the water where people can see me." She explained yet again.
"There's no cameras allowed on the beach and no one here knows you. You'll just be another young witch enjoying the feeling of being nude like the rest of em."
"Malfoy, no stop asking." She chuckled and splashed some water into his face, earning her a pout. Draco looked back to where their space was then back to Hermione.
"How about, you take off your top, walk to the shoreline and when we're completely out of the water you can hop on my back and I'll carry you the ten meters back to our stuff. I'll put up the cabana so you can put it on in privacy."
"Or I can just keep it on." The waves pushed Hermione slightly forward and Draco's hands steadied her hips underwater.
"What if I take off my swim trunks, will you do it then?" He offered and Hermione felt her breath leave her before she busted out a loud laugh. She nearly toppled over in the water from laughing so hard at the notion.
"W-would you really?" She giggled, holding onto her stomach as it cramped from laughing so hard. She couldn't even fathom the idea of tall and brooding, former death eater walking butt naked on his own beach. Draco smirked and let go of her hips to reach for his own and pushed down his swimming trousers. He nearly fell into the waves but successfully removed them rather gracefully and held up the soaking pair above water for her to see. Hermione's smile vanished and her mouth hung open.
"You can't be serious." She said.
"Dead serious. Now come on. Your turn." He told her and she paled. "Hermione you won't even be fully naked, plus, you'll be covered once you get on my back. Just enlighten me. This is a first for me too."
"Really?" She asked disbelieving, it was his own beach, his nude beach and he's never even gone naked before?
"Yes. This will be my first time walking around naked on my own beach so it'll be a first for both of us. Live a little with me." He requested, unoccupied hand coming out of the water to rest on the back of her neck. She stared into his eyes, a strange feeling of trust rushed through her. He had yet to be wrong about the things they've done together, why would now be different? He teased instead of pushed, joked instead of making her feel insecure, she trusted him more than she originally realized.
Letting out a sigh, she kneeled deeper into the water and pulled her bikini top over her head. Draco patiently waited, face neutral as he quietly let her discard her top. Her body shivered as the water rushed to the newly exposed skin, she could feel her nipples harden under the contact and shyly looked back up to Draco's expectant face.
"Such a Gryffindor." He said, the corner of his mouth betraying what used to be an insult.
"What did you say earlier, 'I am who I am?'" She threw back at him and he rolled his eyes.
"Are you ready then?" He asked eyebrows raised on his forehead and she took a long breath before nodding.
"Ready as I'll ever be."
Draco stood up first and Hermione looked away, her cheeks were uncommonly hot and she couldn't believe she agreed to do this. She could quickly put her top back on but then she'd feel cheated out of an experience, one her and Malfoy were sharing together. It shouldn't have mattered that much to her but it did and so, she stood up and looked around before crossing her arms over chest.
"You don't get to cross your arms, I'm not hiding anything." He told her as he took a step towards the shore. Hermione kept her eye straight on their chair, willing her gaze not to wander anywhere else.
"Yes and I'm sure Blaise would be proud." She replied, earning a little chuckle from him.
"No one is paying attention, look for yourself." He pointed to people in the water, completely naked, minding their own business, then to others on the shore walking in the shallowness of the water, and finally to people sitting on their own chairs sunbathing. He was right, curse him for always being right.
"Come on Granger, I have to say it's a little thrilling. Don't tell Blaise." He joked, and Hermione felt herself grin and shake her hand. He stopped walking and brushed his fingers against her hip, making her stop walking as well. She looked up and Draco made sure his eyes stayed on her shining brown ones. His hand plucked away an arm, uncrossing her defense, she wordlessly allowed him to intertwine their fingers, both of them on display or the beach.
"Not so bad see." He said quietly and Hermione saw the reflections of blue in his eyes from the ocean. The colors were warm and reassuring.
"I suppose." She mumbled and allowed him to lead them forward to the shoreline. There truly wasn't anyone paying attention, not even a glance in their direction. It was somewhat odd but she supposed that's exactly what she wanted. She unconsciously squeezed Draco's hand every so often, and though she was unaware, it would make him smile a bit.
As they approached closer to the shore, Hermione figured she could make it another ten meters to their stuff, it wasn't that bad after all. Draco didn't even ask if she wanted to be carried, he saw the look of confidence on her face and knew she was alright.
Draco had grabbed his wand, needing to bend over to do so which gave Hermione a perfect view of his pasty and plump arse. It was rather good looking and she wanted to smack herself for ogling his bare behind. He cashed a spell that put the cabana back up, giving them privacy to put their suits back on. But as soon as the tent went up, Draco snatched her top out of her hands.
"Hey! What are you doing!?" Hermione shrieked as she tried to grab her top back and pay attention to his nakedness.
"I think we should stay like this for the reminder of the day." Draco said while holding her top above his head, suppressing a grin as he watched her frown and a fire of anger rise behind her chocolate brown eyes.
"No. You said once we're back at the cabana!" She cried, attempting to jump to grab at his hand, making him laugh.
"My god you're short." He said, ignoring her protests and kept his arm raised out of her reach.
"And you're an arse! Give me my top!" She demanded and jumped again, smacking his arm down but still not grabbing the suit.
"No, I don't think I will." He chuckled.
"Malfoy!"
"Granger!" He fired back, making her huff in frustration.
"Stop being so bloody childish and give me my damn suit!" She demanded, a small chuckle rising out from her sentence, betraying her anger.
"Say please." He requested.
"Please?" Hermione said in a sarcastic, bratty tone.
"Nope, didn't sound genuine." He teased, trying to push her back with his other arm. Finding it hilarious how tiny and therefore, easy it was to push her away.
"Malfoy if you don't give me my suit right now—"
"You'll what Granger? Kick my shins? Cause that's all you can reach?" He joked, making Hermione angrily gasp and slap his bicep.
"Malfoy I swear!" She nearly screamed, trying not to laugh as his fingers lightly pinched her sides.
"Reach for it come on!" He laughed as she jumped poorly.
Hermione was panting from her efforts, a stupid silly grin gracing her lips when her feet hit the sand and she realized his arm was wrapped around her back. Her own arm was still outstretched, clawing at his forearm but the other sat on his shoulder. Their stomachs were touching, chests moving together, bodies entirely pressed to feel every inch of each other's skin.
Their smiles slowly disappeared as they stared at each other, mouths open, small pants tangling together. Hermione felt her lower region clench when she became aware of his semi-hard erection pressed into her. Their tent seemed to have raised ten degrees, or maybe it was just her skin that felt on fire. Their eyes flickered down to each other's lips in the same moment, and then flashed back up to meet before they crashed into each other in a blinding and ferocious kiss.
A/N: Thank you for reading!