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Allons-y

When Hermione woke the next morning, her breathe both smelt and tasted awful. It was why she was not the biggest fan of fire whiskey, that and it gave her a killer hangover the next day. The overall ache in her head was proof of that. She would have to see if the boys had some hangover potion anywhere, if not she would be having a very un-merry Christmas. Squinting Hermione looked out of her window the sun was barley rising over the horizon. Rolling over she decided to try to get some more sleep. As she rolled over Hermione had never been so happy to see a small vial of a green liquid on a silver platter just sitting on her bedside table. Sitting up and reaching for the heavenly liquid Hermione saw a small tag hanging from the neck of the bottle. Hope you enjoyed the whiskey D. Hermione smirked and shook her head. There was something impressive about Dorea Potter. She knew everything about everyone. Uncorking the bottle Hermione drank the vials contents. The aching in her head and blurred vision immediately ceased. Getting out of bed, Hermione slipped her dressing gown on and headed for the bathroom. As she looked in the mirror, she shook her head at the sorry state. Brushing her teeth was the first priority, than her hair. Her usual chaotic curls were an even bigger mess than normal. Hermione tried to run her brush through hair. It was a failure as the handle snapped from its bristles. Giving up on it completely she tied it up in a messy haphazard bun. There was a tapping at her window as Hermione came out from her bathroom. She smiled as she opened the doors to her private balcony. The cold winter's morning air filled her lungs as she greeted Lily's tawny owl. Taking the brown wrapped gift and letter from the owl Hermione quickly retreated into her room, before coming back with a treat and Lily's gift.

'Thank you Butterscotch, take this back to Lily ok' Hermione quickly tied the package to the birds foot. Watching him as he flew away into the rising sun. Taking a seat on her unmade bed Hermione opened her letter first, as etiquette would state you should always read the card first. She had to admire Lily's penmen ship. Clear and easy to read. Her g's looked exactly like Harry's. Hermione smiled as she read her letter.

Dearest Hermione,

Merry Christmas firstly. How is toe rag and his band of delinquents, they aren't giving you too much trouble are they? Everything is same old here, except Tuney cannot stop talking about the lump of a boyfriend. He is repugnant, mean and obsessed with being normal. His name is Vernon (except I call him Vermin). I don't know what she sees in him really. My Mum and Dad don't like him either, but he makes Petunia happy so they deal with it. Speaking of my mum and dad would like to meet you. Apparently, I talk about you a lot (who knew). They said maybe you could come over the summer and we can have a sleep over. I know it sounds silly but I promise I will make it as fun as possible.

I saw Sev yesterday, we exchanged gifts but not before, he told me his latest theory about you and Remus. I tried my best to throw him off. Honestly it is annoying how he won't let it go especially given I just want to have some quality time with my friend you know what I mean? There is something different about him these days. His infatuation with the dark arts is really starting to scare me. I never asked you Hermione, did you ever met him in your travels?

Anyway onto something much more entertaining. Tell me all about how the gala went. Were you the belle of the ball? Did you shock and awe the boys? Please tell me that you met a handsome gentleman and danced the night away. If you cannot tell I want all the details as well as some photos, (there better be photos). I want to see you in your dress. My bet is you were an absolute stunner.

On another note, I really hope you like your gift. It may be a little corny but I think it is well thought out. It is just a little something that I saw in London and could not pass it by and before you fret it didn't cost that much so you can't be too mad at me.

Merry Christmas Hermione.

Lots of love

Lily

Folding the letter and placing it back into the envelope Hermione opened the small square package. The green velvet box was a giveaway. Lily had brought her some jewelry. Flipping the lid Hermione, was surprised when she saw the delicate golden chain with two small circular pendants with the letters H and L on them. Corny definitely, but Hermione loved it nonetheless. Still in her pajamas, she put on the beautifully thoughtful necklace. It would take some getting used to, as Hermione didn't normally wear any form of jewelry. Laughing to herself Hermione thought that If Lily believed the necklace was corny then the photo album filled with photos was going to be too corny to handle. After re-reading her letter, Hermione finally decided to venture down stairs. There was something in Lily's letter that worried her. Had Hermione never told her about Snape? It was something that she would have to talk to Lily about in person when she went back to school. Just adding it to her growing to do list Hermione tried her best to focus on the here and now. There had been something she'd wanted to do since she first arrived here at Potter manor. But first things first she stopped by the kitchen to make herself a hot cup of tea before heading to the library. Due to the earliness, she thought she would get some quality quiet time before the others roused for Christmas morning. Opening the double doors to the Potters personal library Hermione's breathe hitched in her throat. It was just a good as she remembered. It was hard for her not to smile and feel at home when amongst the impressive collection of printed works. Hermione smiled as she ran her fingers over the smooth bindings of the ancient volumes. She was having trouble picking just one book to read from the assortment of titles. There really was no better smell to her then the old leather bound books, however most of all she was enjoying the moment of stillness. Since meeting, the marauders Hermione missed the small moments of peace.

'Merry Christmas Vix.' His voice cut through the noiseless room making Hermione jump out of her skin. Turning quickly she could hear her heart beating in her ears.

'Fuck me Sirius you scared the hell out of me' the smile on his lips was on of satisfaction. He had not tried to openly scare her yet he had. In his eyes, it was as good as getting something for nothing. Hermione looked at his tired body still in last night's clothes. Had he been to bed yet?

'Ask me again nicely and I might' the devilish glare in his eyes made Hermione, curious but she also knew that now is the time to tread lightly. He had something in his mind that would only lead her into trouble. It was such a shame that she let her inquisitiveness get the better of her.

'Pardon?'

'To fuck you.' Shaking her head Hermione should have known better. Though she couldn't deny the image in her head was rather enjoyable. Biting her bottom lip Hermione entertained the idea for a moment, wondering how it would feel having him do just that. Would he be soft and gentle or explosive and hard? She knew he was watching her reaction; did he enjoy her thinking about him like that? Trying to compose herself Hermione rolled her eyes, as she sat beside him on the large plush lounge. His stormy grey eyes followed her as she tried to act nonchalantly.

'Very funny, Merry Christmas to you too' Sirius laid his head in her lap. It was the first time he had ever done this. There was something so innocent in his movement that it made Hermione's ache. Running her hands through his raven locks, Hermione wondered what was going through his mind. Did he just need the comfort? Honestly, this boy was boggling her. One moment he said he wouldn't want to be close to her then the next, he lays in her lap. 'Why are you up so early thought I was the only one stupid enough to be awake.' Something was wrong she knew this for sure. This coming summer would be when Sirius was disowned and from what she knew about Walburga and Orion Black, they would do everything in their collective powers to break him into submission. He of course would never; they could break his body but never his spirit. Nor would they blink twice about ruining their sons Christmas.

'You are many thing but stupid is not one of them Hermione.' Sitting up he took her hand in his. Something so innocent set Hermione's skin on fire. If he knew, what was in her mind then it would defiantly make him blush especially because he still thought she was with Remus. Hermione promised herself to tell him once they were free of the holidays. Blushing Hermione took his compliment. 'Oh yeah um I got you another gift. Happy Christmas Hermione, it is nothing much just saw you eyeing it last night. Close your eyes and hold out your hands. Don't look at me like that I promise I just wanna give you, your gift.' Hermione considered what he was asking her a moment. It seemed like a trap. Deciding to trust him, she closed her eyes hand held out her hands. He hadn't wrapped it. The gift was heavy, and mad from leather. A light bulb went off in Hermione's head as she opened her eyes and saw the first edition. He had gotten it for her, but at what cost. When she looked at it, last the book was up to six-hundred galleons. It was far too extravagant for Hermione to accept.

'Sirius I…I can't accept this it is far too much' she was on the brink of tears. She had never owned something as valuable as this. In both the monetary and sentimental sense. Hermione had always wanted to own a first edition, as a bookworm it made her heart sing. However, she could not accept such a lavish gift.

'What use is it to me love, I am not a fan of books but I know you are. Now please accept it, smile and thank me. That is all I ask' Hermione did more the smile, in fact she launched herself at him, hugging him tightly and whispering in his ear.

'Thank you Sirius, it is possibly the most wonderful gift I have ever received.' as she pulled away from him Hermione, kissed his cheek. Their faces only inches apart. Hermione's heart raced in her chest as she bit her bottom lip. His hand cupped her face. How was he always so warm? Hermione leaned into his touch. As her thoughts became fuzzier, it was harder to understand why she wasn't kissing him right now. Every nerve in her body wanted it, even the look in his eyes mimicked the way she felt. They were silver orbs of temptation and desire. Hermione became increasingly aware that she was on top of him. Straddling him just like in their first meeting, and just like the first time it had been for all intentions accidental.

'As much as I don't want to Kitten, I think we need to stop.'

'I think that is the wisest choice, But I see you are at it again Sirius. I do hope I have not interrupted the two of you of course.' Charlus stared at the two of them. Hermione suddenly felt incredibly self-conscientious. She was still sitting on his lap. It must have looked like they were about to do…well you know. It must have looked incredibly suspicious to him and even worse if Charlus thought that Remus and Hermione were together. Is that why he looked down on them with so much disapproval?

'No Sir, we were just…um.' As they untangled themselves Hermione and Sirius moved to the opposite ends of the sofa, not wanting to even remotely touch each other. Charlus had clearly seen enough. She wondered if he knew of Sirius' reputation. It would at least partially explain why he looked at them like promiscuous teenagers up to no good.

'I don't want to know. I do suggest however that you both freshen up in your ownrespective rooms.'

'Yes, sir.' Hermione and Sirius responded in unison. It made Hermione feel like a small child scolded by her parents when she had not really been doing anything wrong. It just looked bad. She thought of it as a child caught with her hand in the cookie jar by her parents when she hadn't actually eaten a cookie yet. You still felt the guilt but nothing had really happened...yet. They left the library heads hung low not brave enough to look at each other. Hermione's room came first, but before Sirius could walk away from her, she pulled him into her room. His eyes wide with surprise as she hugged him close. His arms snaked around her waist as he held her tight and close. This small moment was an apology, wrapped in a need and a wish. Silently he broke away from her, leaving Hermione standing alone in her room. It was a hell of a way to start Christmas that was for sure.

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Sirius,

You have until the train pulls into Kings Cross for the summer to gallivant with your blood traitor and mudblood friends before you will be expected to take your place as the head of our family. If it were up to me, you would be out on the street to live amongst the filth you associate with but alas, your saving grace is your father. You will take you role as your father has and like his father before him without complainant.

I will not have you disgrace our Noble House anymore Sirius, you will fall in line and be the heir our family needs, anything less than that would be unforgivable.

Merry Christmas

Your mother

W.B

The more he read this fucking letter the angrier he became. He wanted to tell them to sit on something sharp and rotate. This was not the life he wanted. The thought of having to return to that place left him feeling as though he was drowning. From the time he was small, Sirius had hated that house and his family. The only person he cared for was Reggie, but now he didn't even have him. His world crumbled the moment Regulus was sorted into Slytherin. His mother had been so proudest of her youngest son. Sirius could still remember the howler he received in his first year at Hogwarts. His mother promised when he returned home he would receive a lashing that would make him regret his birth. The feeling if the leather on his skin burned him that Christmas. She beat him so badly he bled on the rug, what was worse is she forced Reggie to watch. Sirius wailed begging his mother to stop, the more he begged the harder she hit him. Sirius knew in that moment. He had to keep the things he loved to himself. Walburga knew he loved Regulus. That was why she made him witness that beating. She would not make the same mistake the second time around, and unfortunately it worked. Reg was everything his mother wanted Sirius to be. He wanted to be done with the "duties" for good. Every fiber in him wished he had never been born a Black. The bitter cow called his father Orion, his saving grace. What a crock of horseshit. That cheating prick would rather run off with one of his mistresses then defend his own son. When Sirius was five years old, he remembered catching his father fucking some random women. Rather than stopping, his father finished his whore. Afterwards he told Sirius that when he fathered the next male heir he too could have his liberties. The older Sirius became the more he understood what his father had told him that day. The likely hood of Orion actually cared for son was nonexistent. In actuality, his father cared for the good of his family name, and that Sirius fathered the next heir. Of course, his bride would be one of his parents choosing and would have nothing to do with love. What made things worse was in the past few years, his family had slipped further into darkness. They had chosen their side in the fight that was coming. They followed the man calling himself the Dark Lord all too willingly. The ball of anger he held with him in his stomach, was one he had lived with for many years. He found it so easy to fly into a fit of rage, but it was also the reason he surround himself in the lightness of the Marauders. They were the family he chose. Then there was Hermione. She was the brightest light in a world full of darkness. He wanted to be like her, she made him want to be better. There was one thing for sure, if he were forced to return to them, Sirius would do everything in his power to make their lives a living hell. He would remember, the lightness and hang onto it for dear life. He would hold onto her.

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After the gifts were opened and the lunch was consumed Hermione sat on a large soft chair in the living room and admired her family, laughing and enjoying their time together. Each of them wearing a ridiculous hat from inside of their Christmas crackers (her particular favorite was Prongs' flowery bonnet). Hermione was rather enjoying her very dapper top hat it made her feel distinguished. Now all she needed was monocle and her outfit would be complete. Dorea and Charlus were snuggling on the couch appreciating their children. It was simple to see the love the pair had for each other. It was sweet to see. They after all had been married for twenty-five years after all. She wondered what Harry would think of this scene. Her heart swelled, he would have loved this really. Charlus had not mentioned the incident from this morning and she was grateful for that, though there was something bothering Hermione deeply. Since the library, Sirius had not dared to look at Hermione. Not even when she thanked him for her second gift. She wanted to scream at him, they hadn't done anything unsavory, yet he was distancing himself from her. She couldn't think about the "what ifs" anymore, instead she smiled and watched James and Remus play their fifth game in a row of Wizards Chess (on Moony's new board thanks to Dorea and Charlus). Prongs had yet to win a game but it was fascinating to watch. Was James actually breaking a sweat? She quietly laughed as James cussed losing the fifth game in a row. His determination was endearing, however she wondered much longer his ego could take this kind of beating. Maybe he liked reaching for the impossible. It would certainly explain why a certain red head infatuated him. Going back to her newest book (the first edition of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by Newt Scamander) she thought to herself about how it really had been an amazing Christmas. The amazing gifts and party aside she simply loved spending the holiday with her boys. Hermione would also have to give an enormous thanks to Dorea and Charlus for allowing her to stay with them. If she were being completely honest, she would have to say it was one of the best she'd ever had. For a moment in time, Hermione could almost forget the darkness that lurked just outside their door.

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They had been at this for hours. A film of sweat cover his skin as some beads dropped from his forehead onto the black hardwood floors.

"CRUICO" Peter's strangled cries filled the echoed room as Bellatrix laughed around him delighted by his pain and suffering. The feeling of a thousand white-hot blades bored into his bones as the curse coursed through him. It was not the first encounter Peter had had with this unforgivable and he doubted it would be the last. The one true lord had been searching his mind for answers for hours now. When he was unable to find them, he allowed Bella to torture him, just enough that he would become weaker but not enough to cause permeant damage. With a wave of his pale white hand, the pain ceased and he could breathe again.

'Now, do you understand what happens to those whom fail me?' his voice low and calculating as he stared down at him. His red eyes unsettled Peter; he was never able to look in them for too long out of fear.

'I beg of you sir I never meant to' his voice was meek, feeble and low. He would kill for some food or water. Peter did not know when he had last eaten, but it was definitely more than a day maybe even two. Looking over to his parents, Peter saw contempt. He'd brought dishonor on his family again. They valued the Dark Lord and his values, and to know their only son had fail him again would bring another world of pain to Peter. Only next time his father would leave the marks on his skin to remind him just how badly Peter had fucked up.

'Your words mean nothing to me you rat, but because I am merciful I will spare your life. You have been tampered with Peter. I want to know why. You have a new objective. Follow this Hermione, find out what she knows. She may be a welcomed addition to our cause. If you fail me again and I promise you I will not be so generous again.' He began to sob at the Lords words, he was so giving and merciful Peter didn't deserve him. He would not fail him like he did last time. He would follow her, report to him and not suffer his demise at his hands. However, if he were to die there would be no greater honor then to leave this world then by his Lords hands.

'Thank you my Lord, thank you' Peter with the remnants of his strength crawled to Voldemort's feet and kissed them. No sooner had Peter done so Voldemort disappeared from his home followed by the others. A sigh of relief came from his lips as Peter slipped into unconsciousness he was safe…for now.