New Years Eve was upon the manor in a heartbeat, leaving everyone rushing to complete their assigned tasks from Narcissa. Bellatrix and Lucius were to decorate the house, like making sure the chandelier matched the curtains and that the house was regal and elegant.
Draco and Hermione were to check every inch of the manor and its garden, correcting anything the Death Eaters might have done to her house. So far they had repaired three broken antiques, rearranged two bookshelves, and straightened over a dozen pictures. It was stressful, but it was better than being in the position Bella and Lucius were. Every screw up resulted in Narcissa shouting at them, so the teenagers were grateful to be away from the blonde's wrath.
"So, are you excited for the ball this evening?" Draco inquired, righting on overturned table in the center of the garden.
Hermione shrugged, fixing a few squashed flowers. "I guess. I'm not one for socializing, though I do know how to make a good impression."
"That's good, considering you'll be the talk of the party."
Hermione froze. "Why?"
Draco chuckled and patted his friend's shoulder. "You're the Dark Lord's daughter, Hermione. All of the purebloods in England know of you and are foaming at the mouth to meet you." Seeing Hermione's surprised expression, he laughed. "I learned that phrase from a muggle show at the Grangers. I used it properly, correct?"
Nodding, Hermione sighed. "I forgot about the newspaper announcing my heritage. I think Bella kept it from me."
"Everyone at this party will be dying to make your acquaintance and get into your good graces, especially those who believe the Dark Lord has returned."
"The Prophet reporters won't be there, right?"
Draco chuckled darkly. "Not a chance. Mum nearly killed one of them for daring to crash her party. She'll set up wards to only allow those with invitations past the gate. Not even an animagus could infiltrate this party. Plus, she wants to make sure if the Dark Lord happens to make an appearance that it won't become a headline by tomorrow, though I don't think he will. He tends to stay away from such things."
"Good," Hermione sighed, her shoulders relaxing. "Because I plan to stay by your aunt's side and I do not want Rita Skeeter or anyone else for that matter, putting it in the papers."
"Understandable." Draco nodded, his blonde hair swishing in the wind, "Come on. We need to hurry and finish up before Mum has a fit."
(Bellamione)
Hermione stood in front of the mirror as Narcissa finished touching up her make-up. She was in a full-length crimson ball gown with heels that were just barely covered by the dress. Her hair was in ringlets around her face and she had to admit that she looked amazing.
"You did wonderful, Narcissa," Hermione complimented, smiling at the youngest Black, "I can't believe how amazing you made me look."
Narcissa laughed. "Hermione, you're a beautiful young woman. I only helped show the world that." She winked at her charge, who laughed. "Bella will be blown away at how stunning you look." She applied Hermione's lip gloss and grinned, stepping away to admire her handiwork. "You will definitely look the part of a pureblood. You just want to remember to act it."
The previous day, Narcissa had spent most of the morning trying to get Hermione used to the pureblood customs – how to act, dress, speak… She'd gotten the hang of it before lunch, but she still worried. Purebloods were critical and snobbish, leaving little room for error. She had to act the part of a pureblood while showing the confidence and refinement that a Riddle should have. She would have a room full of eyes on her and she would have to be her father's daughter – be the Riddle heir she was born to be.
"Draco said everyone at the party is going to be trying to get close to me because of who my father is. Is that true?" Hermione asked meekly, staring at the blonde. She was on edge, her hands shaking slightly at her sides.
Sighing, Narcissa nodded. "It's quite likely. You are the heir to the Cooper fortune and the Riddle fortune, along with being the only child of our Lord. Many people will want to know you – good and bad." Narcissa straightened her posture. "Purebloods are much like sharks, Hermione. You must not allow blood into the water or they will attack you, destroy you so they may be on top. Stay guarded and let Bella take the lead. She knows what can and can't be said to these people. If you cannot stay with Bella, keep to Draco's side. He will know what to do."
Hermione nodded briskly, her nervousness palpable. Sensing the young girl's anxiety, Narcissa pressed a chaste, platonic kiss to her ward's cheek. "It will be alright, Hermione. I promise. Now, I must go dress. Knowing Bella she is probably going at a slug's pace of getting ready, but I'm sure you can find Draco until she's ready. He'll be in library with Fenrir and Antonin I'd imagine."
Hurrying out the room, Narcissa left Hermione to stare in the mirror at her reflection. She exhaled deeply. Last time she'd been this dressed up, Ron had managed to ruin her entire evening.
This time, Ron and Harry won't be here at all…
Straightening herself, she steeled her nerves and fell into the role of Voldemort's daughter. She would make her presence known at this ball. She was the daughter of the most evil man in the wizarding world, but he was also one of the most respected men in pureblood society and that meant something.
Strolling confidently into the hall, her heels clicked dully against the old wood of the manor. She noticed Rodolphus staring at her from the upstairs banister, his arm bandaged and his face sliced up. He hadn't made much of an appearance around the home, opting to hide in his assigned room or his brother's. He glared at her when they locked eyes, but she returned the glare. He had attempted to kill her lover; she wouldn't apologize for protecting her. Ever.
(Bellamione)
Bellatrix stood beside Lucius outside his room, her eyes darker than usual. She looked stunning in her corseted dress, black thigh highs and a pair of black fingerless gloves, darker makeup accentuating her features.
"You seem troubled," Lucius commented, adjusting his tie.
Bellatrix exhaled loudly, but nodded. "I think Rod and Stan are planning something," she admitted.
"Why do you think that?"
Bellatrix's eyes narrowed and she clenched her fists slightly. "Earlier, when I was searching for Hermione, I saw Rabastan talking with Yaxley. I tried to hear what they were saying, but the minute they noticed me, they shut up and parted ways. I don't trust those idiots and now that Rod is up and moving again, it keeps me on edge."
Lucius sighed. "I've had an uneasy feeling in my stomach as well. I don't think they'd attack in the middle of the party, but afterwards…" he trailed off thoughtfully. Shaking his head, he snapped his fingers and Tinsley appeared in front of them. "Bring my son and Hermione to us. Now."
The little elf disappeared, leaving the two to their thoughts. It was only a few moments before Tinsley reappeared, a teenager on each side of her. They wore identically stunned looks and Bellatrix laughed openly. The elf hadn't given the two much of a warning; elves were very literal creatures and now meant now to them, no time to waste.
Using Hermione's confusion to her advantage, she gazed upon her lover appreciatively, enjoying every curve of the dress as it clung to her body. It was tasteful, with just a hint of cleavage peeking out. She looked mouthwateringly delectable.
"Bloody hell, darling, you look amazing," Bellatrix complimented, pressing a sweet kiss to Hermione's glossed lips.
"Really?" Hermione asked self-consciously, tugging nervously at her dress. It was different hearing it from Bella than from Narcissa or Draco.
Bellatrix tugged Hermione closer and kissed her deeply, her hand going to rest at the back of Hermione's neck, her nails scratching lightly at the base.
Growing noticeably uncomfortable, Lucius cleared his throat loudly. "Bella, wasn't there something we needed to discuss with the children?"
Bellatrix growled irritably, but separated from Hermione's lips, though she kept the girl close.
"Father, what's wrong?" Draco inquired, tilting his head curiously.
Lucius sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. "Bella and I…"
Heavy steps echoed through the hall and halted any conversation as Yaxley came towards them. His lips curled into a disgusting smile as he gave the Riddle girl a thorough onceover. "You're looking delicious tonight, Ms. Riddle," he leered, licking his lips.
Bellatrix stepped in front of Hermione as Draco and Lucius moved behind her, their hands resting carefully on their wands.
Yaxley winked at Hermione and continued past them, heading down the stairs. Bellatrix went after him, but Hermione's hand on her shoulder halted her rage-filled actions.
"He's not worth it," Hermione muttered, glaring at the staircase as though the man were still standing there.
"You two are not to go anywhere alone tonight," Bellatrix commanded stiffly, tugging Hermione close. "If you cannot stay with me or Lucius, then stay together. I don't trust them."
"As an absolute last option, go to Greyback or Dolohov. Though we prefer you stay with one of us," Lucius added.
Lucius' bedroom door creaked open and Narcissa stepped out regally, her back perfectly straight and not a single hair out of place. Taking in her husband and sister's posture, she inquisitively raised a brow.
Offering his arm, Lucius swiftly informed Narcissa of what had been decided and the incident with Yaxley, his soft tone doing nothing to assuage her fear and disdain. Draco took his mother's other side and valiantly tried to calm the tension rising in her, but it did little to help. Narcissa couldn't stand the idea of those brutes injuring either of her children (yes, she considered Hermione hers, even if she wasn't). The girl needed a motherly figure, after all.
Hermione shifted closer to Bellatrix and nestled into her side, absently playing with the ring adorning her finger. She hadn't taken it off since Christmas. Rather, she allowed Bella to charm it when needed, otherwise she wore it proudly.
"It's going to be alright, love," Bellatrix promised, kissing the side of her head comfortingly.
She hoped the eldest Black was right.
(Bellamione)
Guests promptly began arriving at seven sharp, purebloods clothed in the latest fashions, curiosity blooming outward. Everyone hoped for a sight of the Riddle heir. Narcissa and Lucius had descended downstairs a few minutes after the first arrivals had made their appearance. No one could ever argue that the couple weren't a striking pair.
Bellatrix and Draco would be escorting Hermione once most of the attendees had arrived, Bella slightly in front and Draco on her left. Hermione's protection was all the pair cared about, seeing as she would be a likely target for any mischief. After all, she was the Dark Lord's daughter and heir to a fortune.
"How much longer?" Hermione asked, peering briefly down into the crowd.
"Narcissa will be sending an elf when it's time," Bellatrix reminded her, absently checking her nails. She was tense, on guard for any potential foul play that might befall her nephew or lover.
The minutes dragged on until Epsy, a rather meek elf, appeared in front of them. "Missus Malfoy says it's time." He disappeared with a snap of his fingers and Bellatrix took Hermione's hand. She squeezed it gently before dropping it.
Draco offered an arm to the Gryffindor and she swiftly went to hold the crook of his arm, her grip tight as nerves ripped through her body.
"It'll be fine," he whispered, nodding to Bellatrix. She made her way to and down the stairs first, the duo close behind.
Silence fell over the crowded foyer as every eye in the room came to rest on Hermione and Draco. Bellatrix wore her infamous deranged grin, stopping at the bottom stair to gaze upon her lover. She absently licked her lips as desire washed over her.
Murmurs began filling the room as Hermione was passed off to Bellatrix, their fingers intertwined. Many of the pureblooded families felt the urge to rush over and greet the young Riddle, but Bellatrix's glare held them back. She wasn't going to let her lover become overwhelmed in merely thirty seconds of entering the party. Draco was following close behind, but Pansy snagged him towards her, much to his displeasure.
"Draco," Pansy greeted sweetly, though it only served to make him want to gag. She'd been pining away at him for years, and no matter how many times he turned her down she kept coming back. "You remember my parents."
Mr. and Mrs. Parkinson were an ugly pair, but their money made up for their lack of looks - and personalities. Draco gave a forced smile and shook their hands briefly.
"It's a pleasure to see you again," he lied, jaw clenched tight.
Bellatrix, sensing her nephew's unease, swept over to the young man with Hermione close to her side. "Alvin, Hestia, how lovely to see you," she greeted, her gaze predatory as she sized up the couple. They'd never been fans of Bellatrix, though they feared her greatly.
"You as well." Alvin faked a smile.
"Hermione!" Pansy practically squealed, "How are you? How's your break been?"
Arching a brow, Hermione stared at Pansy and took pleasure in how the Slytherin squirmed beneath her gaze. "It's been fine. How has yours been?" Remembering Narcissa's lessons, she must be civil, even if Pansy had been a royal pain in her arse since day one.
"It's been wonderful." Pansy smiled brightly. "I hope we can get to know each other better once we're back at school!"
Hermione bit back a chuckle when Bellatrix released a low, threatening growl. It wasn't loud enough for it to be noticed by the Parkinsons, but she could feel her lover's irritation and jealousy.
"If you'll excuse us, we have people to mingle with. Come, Draco."
Draco bowed his head to the family before the trio headed deeper into the crowds. Hermione sighed audibly, it's going to be a long night.
(Bellamione)
Hermione exhaled heavily as she and Draco made their way over to the nearest elf with a tray. They were dying to get away from the questions and conversations with purebloods that they cared very little for. Bellatrix was advocating for the Dark Lord not too far away.
"This is insane," Hermione said quietly, taking a flute from the offered tray.
"You're quite popular," Draco laughed, sipping his drink.
Hermione studied the party with a critical eye and took note of Yaxley talking with the a small group of pureblooded men, gesturing subtly and staring over at Bellatrix with disgust in his eyes.
"What do you think they're talking about?" Draco wondered sarcastically, taking a gulp of his drink.
Hermione snorted. "We need to tell Bella."
She handed off her drink to an elf and hurried through the crowd, nodding a greeting to passing families before coming upon Bellatrix and slipping up to her side. "We need to talk," she mumbled into her ear before shaking hands with the smiling pureblood couple in front of her.
"Young Mr. Malfoy! My, you've grown up quite a bit since last you. Becoming a fine young man." He shook Draco's hand firmly and patted him on the shoulder. "And Miss Riddle. You look just like your mother. It's like looking into a mirror of the past," the man announced with a boisterous laugh.
Hermione tilted her head curiously. "You knew my mother?"
"Oh yes. She was quite a wildcard." He smiled, "Your mother wanted to change the world, and having heard of your reputation and lineage, I know you'll carry on her vision. You'll do great things in life, Ms. Riddle. I can feel it."
Blushing, Hermione quietly thanked the man as he and his wife disappeared into the crowd.
"What did you two need to talk to me about?"
Draco cleared his throat and replied softly, "Yaxley seems to be rallying a group of people."
"Do you really think he's dumb enough to try something?" Bellatrix questioned.
"Not tonight," Lucius butted in as he approached them, a grim expression.
Bellatrix stared inquisitively at him, waiting for him to elaborate.
Sighing, Lucius pinched the bridge of his nose. "They're trying to rally enough pureblooded men to help him take control of the manor. Promising to get them into the ranks of the Death Eaters."
"How do you know this?"
"He was trying to pander to Markus Dogger and Lee Billus. They, instead, told me. A healthy dose of fear keeps people from trying such asinine things." Lucius winked at Hermione, who laughed.
Bellatrix sighed. "At least we have time to prepare."
Lucius sighed, but a slight smile bloomed from his lips. "At least we can enjoy our night without the fear of being stabbed in the back. Come, Draco, your mother wanted to brag on you."
"But…"
"Come," Lucius commanded, walking away with Draco pouting as he followed.
Bellatrix smiled. "I think we've been here long enough, don't you think, love?"
Hermione nodded with relief and let the older woman drag her out of the party. She could only handle so many purebloods breathing down her neck for so long.