Chapter Fifteen
BETA Love – RaynePhoenix2 &Sab81790
Monday, June 4
Checking the clock once again, Hermione put down her quill and rubbed her eyes. It was Monday, which meant it was a submission night, and she was due at the club soon. A secretive smile was accompanied by a flutter in her belly as she recalled the night before. She was still floating down from cloud nine and wasn't sure if she would ever land on solid ground again. Submitting to both men had been heavenly. Sublime. Beyond perfect.
Severus was wonderful as both her lover and her Master. She loved the tender side he was sharing more and more. She cherished the moments where they could simply curl up on the sofa and read, his arm usually draped around her as she nestled into his side. He had a sharp, dry wit that struck fast and it still awed her how incredibly brilliant he was. Then there was his Dominance. His ability to, with a simple look or gesture, bring her to her knees – a slave for his use but feeling like a goddess. His voice was a weapon he wielded mercilessly and precisely. She was truly happy for the first time in what was probably her entire life.
Yet, despite that, there was no denying that when Lucius Malfoy joined them, her excitement and pleasure reached a new stratosphere. He was her first Master. Her first sex with a Dominant man. He taught her so much and helped her realize just how much she loved and needed submission. Her response to him was conditioned. It was instant and yet it was raw and natural as well. He was her friend, her confidant and, now that he was her occasional second Dominant, she felt a wholeness and completeness that she hadn't really realized she was lacking. There was no denying that the two encounters with both men were the happiest nights of her life. Well, perhaps she was overstating a bit. Harry's defeat of Voldemort had been pretty incredible as well.
There was just something about submitting to those two men that drove her to abandon. They were so alike and yet they were different. As Dominants, they complemented each other. Severus' delicious bass, dark eyes, and expert fingers; Lucius' intensity, his elegant cruelty, for lack of a better word, that wasn't actually cruel at all. The way he slapped her, scolded her. The way Severus pushed her to realize she could do more and want more. Severus' cane and Lucius' flogger. They each had a unique way that fed her desire to want to please. It wasn't for play and it wasn't pretend. Severus was enough for her; it wasn't that he didn't satisfy her. But it was the difference between a dish of delicious gelato and then that same dish with fresh cream and berries on top. With maybe some fudge and sprinkles as well. Hermione stifled a groan when a visual popped into her head of the two wizards licking said dessert off her body. She could literally feel the swipes of their tongues on her skin.
The sheen of a light sweat formed on her brow when the erotic daydream was usurped by last night's amazing and heart pounding reality. She absently rubbed her jaw and shifted in her chair as memories from the night before flooded her mind. Memories of lying on her back, both Dominants with their hands on her, their cocks inside her… Bollocks! She laughed in self-admonishment as she felt the wetness. Another pair of knickers saturated. Reaching in her bag, she pulled out a clean pair. Her third today. She had given up on the Evanesco followed by a hot air charm. It just wasn't the same as freshly laundered.
As she changed, she tried to ignore the subtle tug in her gut that this wouldn't last. There would come a time when Lucius would have his own submissive and his desire for her, for scening with them, would likely wane. Or worse, he would marry! There was Juliette. Hermione couldn't forget her. Fuck. The beautiful and accomplished French Minister of Magic. That small tug was now a full-on knot in her belly and she hated the jealousy that was burning its way up her esophagus.
"Stop it, Hermione!" she said out loud as she scolded the witch in the mirror with the pained brown eyes. "You have no right," she added more quietly in a defeated tone.
Forcing her disciplined mind into clearer waters, she began to think about Severus. How far they had come. She had known him since she was an impressionable eleven-year-old. And what an impression he made, even back then. It had been a very windy road that had led her and Severus to where they were now. And, while she wished some of the peaks had been higher and the valleys not so deep, she couldn't regret any of it because it brought her to this moment. This amazing man was hers and she was not exaggerating or overstating when she acknowledged to herself that she wanted him forever.
Looking at her watch, she realized she was running out of time. She needed to get into the right frame of mind, and she needed to freshen up and change clothes. She loved her daily life with her man, but submission nights fed a part of her that was still growing. The biweekly meals only satiated her briefly. It seemed that piece of her was only growing stronger and hungrier. Her Master had been pushing her limits into longer sessions and Hermione was beginning to wonder if adding another night might be possible. She was eager to try another 24-hour session, also.
Done for the day, she grabbed her bag and Accio'd her cloak as she left the now empty office. An hour later found her sitting at the usual booth she and her club friends often occupied. Severus was delayed due to a club issue, so she was patiently waiting and enjoying the company of Clarisse. Jonathan was working the bar and Hermione could tell the Dominatrix was smitten by the way she kept looking over towards him with a gleam in her eye.
Hermione was just about to ask the witch how she became interested in the lifestyle when a demanding voice made her startle and almost spill lemon water down her front.
"Scoot over, wench!"
Hermione shot the blond an exhausted look. "Are you capable of greeting me in a calm and normal fashion that doesn't involve a derogatory moniker?"
A look of incredulity on Draco's face was frozen for a second as he was clearly contemplating a response. It was an unfamiliar chuckle from behind the prat that pulled Hermione's attention, however.
The tall brunette with blue eyes and a wholesome smile peeked over Draco's shoulder.
"Theo!" Hermione exclaimed with a huge grin. "Draco, move out the way so I can converse with a gentleman."
"Ha. As if," the blond responded. "You think Severus would approve of him sitting next to you? With you dressed like that?"
Hermione peeked down at her barely there, see through top and had to concede the point.
"I'm fine on this side of the table," Theo interjected. "This way I can see your eyes as we talk."
Draco had slid in beside Hermione and let out a loud sigh, "Please, you're going to be sneaking secret glances at Hermione's unmentionables as well as every other half-naked woman walking around here."
Hermione had to smile when Theo blushed.
"Guilty as charged," he responded with a lop-sided grin.
It was a testament to how far Hermione had come in her comfort at walking around half naked that Theo's response didn't faze her. She was genuinely excited to see the young man. She had really enjoyed talking to him at the Gala and was eager to hear more about the library upgrades. "So, how are you? How's the Library work going? Oh!" she added with a wiggle of excitement in her seat. "Did you hear that Minestra Spook is writing a new series about the relationship between the natural elements and weather and how the atmosphere can affect spells and charm's work? It's really forward thinking if you ask me and I…"
"Whoa… Slow down there! Your talking faster than a Nimbus 2007 on pepper up," Draco teased.
Theo grinned and rubbed his jaw as he responded, "I actually ordered an extra copy of the first edition. You'll be the first person I lend it to."
Hermione beamed at her newly befriended Bibliophile. She shot Draco a haughty glare. "Why haven't you brought him around more? Clearly you could learn a thing or two from him."
Draco smirked. "Theo is actually here to learn a thing or two himself on this fine evening."
Hermione's eyes lit up in excitement. "Really? That's great, Theo."
Another blush crept up the wizard's face and he glanced awkwardly at the Dominatrix he was sitting next to before responding somewhat softly and shyly, "Well, after hearing Draco talk about it and after doing a little research, I thought I might give it a try."
"Oh, yes! I researched quite a bit as well. It's always best to be as prepared as possible when contemplating something new."
"I couldn't agree more," Theo concurred with a nod.
Draco rolled his eyes in mock disgust before realizing a gross oversight. "Mistress Clarisse, forgive my manners. This is Theo Nott, a school chum of mine. Theo this is Mistress Clarisse, one of the more experienced Dominatrix's at the club."
When another blush overtook the clearly nervous Slytherin, Clarisse laughed. She held out her hand. Theo shook it lightly and tilted his head in deference, "Pleasure to meet you, Mistress Clarisse."
"Aren't you sweet," Clarisse teased with a small smile.
Theo was suddenly focusing a bit more on the woman next to him, prompting Draco to quickly intervene. "Not this one, Theo. She's heavily involved with Jonathan who manages the bar here."
"Speaking of Jonathan, I should head over and make sure he's behaving."
Theo scooted out allowing her to exit the booth. The two exchanged appropriate 'nice to meets yous,' before she walked away.
Mistress M appeared at the same time and slid in next to the slightly overwhelmed Slytherin. "You okay, Teddy Bear?" She asked him with an amused expression.
"Oh please, tell me you aren't going to call him that?" Draco whined.
M shot Draco a stern look with a cocked brow. "It suits him very well."
Hermione laughed. "It really does."
M looked back at the man sitting next to her, prompting him to respond. "I'm fine. This place is…really something." His gaze swept the room before he shrugged.
"You'll be fine. Miriam has agreed to a simple introductory session with you. She'll be gentle."
Draco nodded approvingly, "She's good at reading people. Has more intuition than most. She won't push more than you can handle and just remember to safe-word if you want to stop. There is nothing wrong with that and this might not be for you."
"Yeah," Theo responded as he appeared to be gearing himself up. He was nodding and rubbing his palms along his trousers when Miriam appeared.
Standing at the side of the table she offered quick greetings before landing her focus on her little lab rat for the evening. "You must be Theo," she offered as she held out her well-manicured hand.
Theo once again dipped his head in deference as he shook her offered hand and responded, "Yes, Ma'am. Pleasure to make your acquaintance."
Miriam smiled broadly. "Oh, you are a teddy bear. I might just have to adopt you and prop you right on the middle of my bed."
Everyone laughed except Theo who was now the color of a tomato.
Miriam's teasing tone came to a stop and she offered in a sincere tone, "Why don't we move to another booth and talk a bit. Get to know a little more about each other and if you still want to proceed, we'll go into the details and set some guidelines for the evening."
Theo visibly relaxed a let out relived sigh. "That sounds… great, actually."
M winked at the departing Slytherin as she slid out of the booth, allowing Theo to follow Miriam, who led him to the far side of the room where there were a lot of empty tables.
"Oh, she's going to rock his world," M observed lightly as she watched them walk away.
"Without a doubt," Draco agreed.
"Is Miriam good?" Hermione asked.
"She's very good, especially for beginners because she has that sense about what they'll like and what they can handle." Draco paused before adding, "She was the one who introduced me to submission." He sipped Hermione's drink and then continued, "I had been Dominating a bit, but knew I needed to experience the other side of the Sickle in order to be really good. So she helped me out. Then I trained as a submissive for a few months like Father and Severus, only to find I enjoyed submission even more than Dominance."
"I didn't know all that," Hermione said quietly as she basked in learning something new about her best friend.
It was quiet for a minute before Hermione asked, "Has Blaise ever expressed interest in this kind of thing?"
"Nah," Draco responded. "He's too rigid and conservative. And not in a secretly submissive sort of way. I actually don't talk to him much about it because he's just not really open to understanding it."
M added, "Even if he was secretly interested, he would never act on it. It's just not how he is." She looked at Draco. "Did he get moved back to London this weekend?"
"All moved. No longer living in Italy. He's been here more than there for the past few months anyway. Now it's just official."
Hermione didn't say anything. There was just something about Blaise that didn't sit right with her. She couldn't help but be relieved he wouldn't be slithering around the club. She would keep her thoughts to herself for now, though.
"Pet, I'm sorry to have kept you waiting."
Hermione's belly clenched at the sound of her Masters' seductive tenor.
She beamed up at her onyx eyed lover. "Master," she offered in greeting.
"Come along," he commanded, holding out his hand. Draco shimmied out of the booth allowing her to exit.
"See you later," she offered to the couple as she walked away, her hand firmly clasped in Severus'.
"So, Pet. I could see on the monitors you were enjoying yourself as you waited for me. I'm glad you had some company."
Hermione smiled. "Yes, Master. I always enjoy hanging out with friends when I'm here."
Snape's dark eyes landed on her as a contemplative look came over his face. "It's odd, though. I don't recall Theo being on the accepted list of conversationalists we agreed to."
Hermione felt a rush of dread and was sure her face had turned as while as a sheet.
Fuck!
"Master, I'm so… I'm…" She found she was at a loss for words. What could she say? She hadn't even thought about not talking to Theo. The restraint hadn't even crossed her mind.
"Yes, interesting," he offered wryly, adding to her mortification.
They were now descending the stairs where she was being led to a new room. Upon entering, her jaw almost hit the floor.
"When you disobey, like a child, you shall be treated as one."
Hermione's gulp was likely audible, but she was far too distracted to notice. Instead her focus zoomed in on the child's canopy bed with stuffed animals occupying every available space before the fluffy pillows. A pink bedspread, pictures of unicorns on the walls, a dollhouse in the corner, as well as a Wendy the Wistful Witch Doll, still in its box. These were the details that caused her overactive brain to go into a spin. Hermione had yet to engage in age play and had only given it a two on her list.
"Go kneel on your pillow, Hermione, and Daddy will prepare your punishment."
What?
When she stood frozen, failing to respond or move, Severus swatted her hard on the bottom. "You are only making it worse," he added sternly and with a firm eye. It was the look a father would give his child if she misbehaved, not quite the same as a Dominant's disapproving stare.
Coming back to her senses, she quickly dashed over to the pillow and froze once again. Oh, you have got to be kidding me! The pillow, on which she was to kneel, had a caricature of childlike versions of herself, Harry, and Ron smiling and waving with the words, "Golden Trio," stitched over their heads.
She was currently wearing a see-through baby doll top and frilly knickers, and the reason Snape had lay this particular outfit out for her to wear tonight suddenly became clear. He hadn't told her to undress and she felt that was likely by design.
Kneeling on the pillow, she closed her eyes and focused on grounding herself. She was flustered from her oblivious rule breaking and now, even more so, by the surprise scene he was subjecting her to.
"Tell me why you are being punished, Hermione."
She opened her eyes and looked up into dark irises. There was something in his face that Hermione read as doubt. Did he think she would safeword? She found herself a touch disappointed in him and hugely disappointed in herself. She had given him cause to question her. Well, if he wanted her to role play, she would role play.
"I disobeyed you, Daddy. I forgot I'm not supposed to talk to boys when you aren't with me."
"And why did you forget?"
"Draco brought a friend and I'm allowed to talk to Draco and I just forgot. I'm sorry, Daddy." Her bottom started to quiver. She was getting into this much more than she thought she would.
"I see. And tell me why you aren't allowed to talk to boys."
Hermione didn't hesitate. "Boys have pee-pees. And you said pee-pees are bad and make boys do bad things."
Hermione didn't miss the subtle twitch in her Masters' lip. He had been about to laugh. She was sure of it.
After a brief pause, he responded, "That's right, muffin. But not all pee-pees are bad. Tell me who has a good one."
"You, Daddy."
"Yes, good girl. And there is one other person. Who else?"
Hermione internally smiled. "Uncle Lucius. Uncle Lucius has a nice pee-pee."
"So, it appears you understand, yet you broke the rule anyway. Therefore, you know you must be punished. And while it hurts me more than it hurts you, you must accept it."
Hermione's lip once again quivered and she tried her best to get her eyes to tear, but she wasn't quite there.
"Your punishment will have two parts and if you are very good and take your punishment like the brave and strong little girl that I know you are, you can have a treat afterwards."
"Yes, Daddy. I'll be good."
"Very well. Stand up and come with me."
He held his hand out to help her and then led her into the attached ensuite. The bathroom had a child's shower curtain with rainbows and unicorns. Severus stood before her at the sink, where he was unwrapping what appeared to be a bar of soap. A phallus shaped bar of soap. Really? Was he really going to put soap in her mouth? Then again, while this was role play, she was also truly being punished.
She wanted to protest. The words, Seriously? You're going to wash my mouth out with soap? were on the tip of tongue, but she stopped herself.
His brow cocked as he watched her. He was likely very well aware of her battle. And not because he was a Legillimens, but because Hermione was terrible at concealing the frustration and surprise from her face.
"Open up," he sing-songed, surprising her.
Closing her eyes, she tentatively opened her mouth.
"Then what happened?" Lucius asked, the grin on his face wide and the gleam in his eyes bright.
Severus shrugged. "Her eyes watered, and she cringed. Once it had had a chance to start to dissolve in her mouth, she began gagging."
Lucius laughed. "I think your punishment likely drove home the lesson very well, my friend." He grasped Snape's shoulder, shaking his head as he turned back to his desk. "At least until she forgets and loses herself again," he added lightly.
Neither said anything for a minute. Lucius was focusing on the parchment on his desk when he asked, "And the role play? How did she like it?'
"Like a fish in a sand box at first. She didn't say anything, but I could tell by her eyes that she was guarded. She quickly snapped out of it, though."
"Did she, now?" Lucius asked, a bit more curious. He had considered introducing her to age play, but he didn't think she would take to it.
"Well, once the soap was gone and she had her spanking, followed by some intense fucking, she was all smiles." He paused and added, "Let's just say she will be very open to Daddy and Uncle Lucius time when you are up for it." Snape peeked back over his shoulder. "This Thursday, perhaps?"
Lucius' eyes shot up to the wall before him. He had promised himself he would distance himself from them, sexually. It wasn't that he didn't want to, but it needed to be an occasional, and not frequent, occurrence. It was too hard. He needed to move on and fucking the girl, engaging the two of them in his study…it had been…a mistake. They should have moved to her or Severus' suite. He had spent the day in Narcissa's parlor, which had only added to his depression. But he just couldn't bear to be in that room today. He could picture it all too vividly. It was too fresh. He was considering rearranging the furniture. Anything to make it look different. Realizing he hadn't answered his friend, he responded, "Unfortunately, I have some things I need to do on Thursday."
Severus didn't miss a beat. "Saturday, then?"
"No, I'm possibly seeing Juliette on Saturday and if not, I really need to check on the newly acquired vineyard."
Severus knew Lucius too well. His friend was pulling away, but why?
"Looking a little worse for wear there, Beaves," Draco teased when she reemerged from her scene with Severus. He was tying up some loose ends in the club and would meet her in his flat shortly.
Hermione rolled her eyes at the blond menace. "I'm quite well, thank you."
"Yeah, I bet you are. Did Snape take you to room seventeen?"
Hermione's focus flew to Draco's knowing smirk. "How did you know?"
His look became smug as he puffed his shoulders up. "I have my ways."
"If by ways, you mean that I told you, then yes you have your ways," M teased as she approached the pair.
"How did you know?" Hermione asked the Mistress.
"I have my ways," she responded with a grin every bit as smug as Draco's.
Hermione let out a grunt of frustration. "You're just as bad as he is. You two so belong together."
"Thanks, love!" Draco responded cheerily before blowing a kiss to his woman. It was clear this wasn't a submission night for the blond based on his behavior.
"Well, I just wanted to see how Theo's night went." Hermione said with a hint of dismissiveness before the pair. She still wanted to know how M knew what room Snape was taking her to.
"How it's going, you mean," Draco corrected.
That caught Hermione's attention, causing her to forget her irritation from only seconds before.
"Yep," Draco continued. "They haven't emerged yet."
Wednesday, June 6
Hermione was putting a touch of nude colored lipstick on when Draco walked into her bedroom. "It's a good thing I'm dressed because I don't think Severus would appreciate your coming in here if I had been changing."
Draco looked nonplussed as he collapsed onto her bed. "Nothing I haven't seen before. Severus is as pragmatic as they come."
Hermione laughed without humor. "Yeah, until he's not. Do you even know your Godfather?"
"Are you ready yet?" His eyes landed on her for the first time. "You're wearing that?" His face showed an air of disapproval.
Hermione glanced down. "Yes, and I'm not changing. Why do you always criticize my attire?"
"I'm not criticizing. And you would look perfectly lovely if you were going to a bonfire…with the other models in the 'before' section of Madam Mysteria's Magical Makeover."
"You're an arse," she replied with a roll of her eyes. After tucking her lipstick into her makeup bag, she glanced down at her jeans and let out a growl of frustration. She stomped to her closet and pulled out a less faded pair and a different sweater. "How's this, then?"
"Move," he responded as he stood and walked towards her closet, pushing her to the side. "I don't know who taught you to dress."
Hermione glanced at her watch. Fudge. She still had to burn at least ten minutes. "Well, by all means, teach me, then!"
Draco's hands froze before he slowly turned his head to look at her. His eyes squinted and his lips pursed. His words were slow and drawled out, "What are you playing at? Since when do you actually ask me to teach you how to dress?"
Hermione barked a laugh. "Oh, I'm sorry. You thought I was serious?"
Draco continued watching her for a couple seconds before returning his focus to her closet. "How do you find anything in here? There's no room and everything is squished together." He pulled his wand out of his pocket and muttered an incantation as he flicked it towards the small space. Hermione's jaw snapped shut when the small closet turned into a huge space with her clothes and shoes equally spaced.
"Oh," she responded, slightly dumbfounded at her own oversight of the obvious.
"Honestly, are you a witch or aren't you?" Draco added with no small amount of snark.
"I was going to buy a wardrobe, actually," Hermione quietly conceded.
Draco was flicking through her hangers, scanning every item as he responded, "These modern flats with their cupboards. Wardrobes work much better and are easier to expand and shrink to size." He pulled out a teal dress that Hermione had forgotten she even had. "Put that on, and please tell me you have some silver, strappy heels."
"I have black strappy heels that look perfectly fine with this dress."
Hermione grabbed the garment and disappeared into the washroom, grateful he had taken the bait and insisted she change. She had been certain he would scoff at the faded Levi's and plaid, button down shirt. Her delay had worked.
"Do you mind if we stop by your father's before we meet M at the restaurant?" she yelled from behind the closed door.
"We are going to be late," she heard him grumble.
"I just have to return a book," she said with a smile as she put on the earrings Severus had gifted her and stepped back into her room.
"Now…you look perfect." Draco beamed. "My work here is done." He looked at his watch. Finally getting around to answering her, he said, "Fine, we have time if you don't dawdle."
"When do I ever dawdle?"
"I'm not even going to answer that, she-who-must-read-the-cover-of-every-new-book-at-the-bookstore."
"SURPRISE!"
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY!"
Lucius watched in amusement as comprehension dawned on his son's face. In his twenty-seven years, Draco had never been thrown a surprise party and it was obvious he was not expecting it. Of course, the fact that his birthday had been the day before and had passed without a lot of fanfare added to the surprise. But yesterday had proven difficult for a myriad of reasons, not the least that M had had a family obligation, and it had been determined that a party tonight would work just as well. The young man turned to the bushy haired beauty next to him and gave her a scolding look belied by a blush and a brightness in his eyes that proved he wasn't truly angry.
A warmth squeezed Lucius' heart when he saw Draco's face light up at the sight of Mills as she approached him. She kissed his cheek and whispered something in his ear that caused the smile to morph into a playful grin. Draco grabbed her hand and didn't let go. Perhaps this young woman would be his son's Narcissa. Seeing Draco this happy wasn't something Lucius was sure he would ever witness.
"And to think you were concerned he wouldn't appreciate the gesture," the approaching familiar voice drawled.
"Severus, nice to see you this fine evening," Lucius responded to his best friend. He turned and assessed him. "Oh, my. A grey shirt. We are festive tonight, aren't we?"
"Yes, he is. Handsome and festive and perfect," the little Gryffindor hellcat crooned as she suddenly appeared and nestled in between the two wizards. Pressing up on her toes, she kissed Severus' cheek and then Lucius'. She scanned up and down both their forms. "You both look debonair and irresistible."
Neither wizard immediately responded, both aware of how natural it was to have her standing between them. Her body might be petite, but her presence was enormous.
Lucius and Hermione shared a conspiratorial smile after she looked up and recognized the chandelier Lucius had strung her from not so long ago. Then she realized it had been about six months ago.
"And you are a vision, Hermione," Lucius responded as he took in the way her dress framed her body.
"Good evening, Pet," Severus whispered. "You look good enough to eat."
Hermione blushed as she quickly peeked around them, confirming there wasn't a Weasley or a Potter within earshot. "Severus, behave!" she playfully scolded.
His brow cocked. "I'll behave if you hand me your knickers within the next three minutes." His eyes narrowed subtlety. "Otherwise, I make no promises."
Hermione wasn't sure if he was serious, so she turned and scrutinized him. "I'm not kidding. You just burned over ten seconds," he added.
When Lucius let a rich chuckle escape, Hermione cut him a glare. "You're encouraging him!"
"He needs no encouragement from me, Doll," Lucius responded innocently.
"Two minutes and counting."
"Oh, Nimue! Fine!"
Severus and Lucius watched in delight as she cursed under breath and dashed off towards the guest loo.
"HG, there you are," a very pregnant Ginny Potter grabbed at Hermione's arm as the witch was dashing by.
"Ginny!" Hermione squealed. "I thought you couldn't make it?"
"Ehh, I was feeling better today, and I figured there would be good food here. It's a Malfoy party, there has to be." Her eyes started scanning the room. "Just a matter of finding it," she added slowly as she continued looking.
"Hey Hermione," Harry said cheerily as he idled up beside them. Handing his wife a plate full of food, he scrutinized his lifelong friend. "You look great!"
"Thanks, Harry. You're looking good yourself"
Neither acknowledged or paid notice to the moans of ecstasy coming from the redhead next to them. Ginny had developed a habit of talking to herself while she ate during this latest pregnancy.
Harry shrugged, as he adjusted his tie, making it looser. "Thanks. Ginny said that after an hour, I can lose the tie."
"Oh Merlin, is that a scallop?"
"Absolutely, Harry. If you're really that uncomfortable, I think you can take it off now."
"With bacon!"
"Maybe I'll just loosen it a little more," he mumbled as he continued messing with it.
"So how are the kids?"
"They're good. Albus is very excited about his little sister arriving in month. James, not so much."
Hermione laughed. "Well, James has already been through the arrival of an attention stealing baby sibling."
"Celery? Wasting prime real estate where another crab covered cracker could have been."
"Work okay?" Hermione asked.
He let out a heavy sigh. "It's this case. It's really starting to get to everyone. We just can't seem to catch a break and he seems to be getting better at not leaving traces."
"Or she."
"Huh?"
"Or she, Harry. Surely your department realizes it could be a female attacking Muggleborns."
"Unlikely. She would have to be a tall and larger female given the descriptions we have managed to obtain." He started looking around. "Actually, is Snape here? I need to talk to him."
Fuck! She had completely forgot about the knickers. "Uh, yeah. I need the loo."
Harry watched in slight surprise as Hermione suddenly dashed off. He looked back at his wife to find her happily chewing and humming to herself. Godric, I love this woman, he mused. "Can I get you another plate, love? Some juice maybe?"
Ginny looked up, a slightly surprised look on her face as though she had forgotten where she was. She smiled and leaned forward to give him a quick peck on the lips. "I think I'm full for now. Ask me again in ten minutes."
Harry chuckled.
"Hey, Mate!" Harry looked up at his ginger best friend.
"Ron. Hi Luna," he added as the blonde approached Ginny.
"Merlin, did you see Millicent Bulstrode?" Ron whispered to Harry.
"No, what about her."
Ron gave him a look of bewilderment. "She got hot. I mean like, really hot!"
"She was at the Gala, remember?"
"She was?" Ron asked, surprised. He thought for a second. "I don't remember seeing her."
"You've really got to work on your observation skills, Ron," Harry chided.
"Whatever. I just can't get over how much she changed."
"Who changed?" Ginny chimed in.
"Millicent Bulstrode," Ron replied. "Where's the food?"
"Oh, there's Snape. Back in a few." Harry said distractedly before walking off.
Hermione stepped out of the loo with her knickers tucked in her evening bag and gazed around the large room, desperate to find Severus. Being short was such a disadvantage at times like this.
A yank at her hair caused her to yelp. She was not surprised to discover the culprit was the birthday boy. "Ouch!" she groused as she slapped him on the arm. "That hurt, you wanker."
"That did not hurt." He reached forward and pulled a larger amount of hair. "That hurt."
Hermione slapped his hand away. "Would you stop?!"
"I should do a lot more! Tricking me like that. Tell me, were you really planning to wear those awful denim trousers or was that a ruse to delay us?"
Hermione smirked. "Oh, stop it. No one loves being the center of attention more than you," she nodded in concession, "perhaps with the exception of your father…maybe. It's a tossup. But regardless, you love this so don't pretend you don't and don't pull my hair like a primary school kid who has a crush!"
"Who has a crush?" M asked smoothly as she settled close to Draco, who wrapped his arm around her and kissed her temple.
"Your prat of a boyfriend just pulled my hair, twice!"
"Ah, play yard flirting. Never did much of that myself," M mused. "The boys were always afraid of me." She looked at Draco and added lightly. "Were you flirting with Miss Priss, Dragon?" She looked back at Hermione and gave her predatory smile. "Not that I would blame you. She is quite…tempting. I'll have to approach Severus about a play date."
Hermione's jaw fell. Severus! Fuck! Once again, she was off. "I have to find Snape, talk later!"
The pair watched her leave with amused expressions. Draco stroked his Mistress' ego under his breath, "She has no idea what she's missing, M."
M gave him a conspiratorial look. "She's going to find out soon enough, Dragon."
Where the hell is he? Hermione was beginning to panic. At this point you should probably just hide from him until the end of the evening, she suggested to herself. Finding that plan held a lot of merit, she stepped out a side door and onto a balcony she had not known was there. It was dimly lit but she could see a couple figures smoking at the other end.
"Care for a smoke, Granger?"
Hermione squinted, trying to see who was talking to her. She stepped closer to find it was someone she barely recognized. "Goyle?" she asked, not quite sure.
"Hi Hermione," he responded, sticking his hand out for her to shake. "Been a long time."
Hermione had not seen Greg Goyle since the trials after the war. His father had been sent to Azkaban, but Greg had only received a slap on the hand. "It sure has," she responded a bit hesitantly. She and Greg had barely ever spoken. Their handshake was brief.
Hermione glanced up at his companion to find the brown eyes of Blaise Zabini practically glaring down at her. He nodded and gruffly grunted out, "Granger."
"Zabini," she responded. She felt a chill and an intense need to step away from the Italian.
"I hear you are doing well for yourself. Your own firm and everything," Goyle added conversationally. It was said as more of a statement than a question.
"Yeah, I'm enjoying working in law. And what are you doing these days?"
He shrugged. "I'm a chef."
Hermione was prepared to respond to what she was certain would have been a low level, boring job somewhere. His reply caused her jaw to clamp shut in surprise.
Sensing her shock, Greg laughed lightly. "Yeah, I know right? Guess all those years of me loving sweets and food led to something useful."
His demeanor was soft and kind. Not boorish and bullying as she had remembered from her youth. She internally reminded herself that they had all changed. They had all grown up. "That's-that's great, Greg," opting to use his first name in a friendly gesture. "Where are you working?"
"Kind of all over the place. I've just designed the menu for a new restaurant opening in Hogsmeade. Next week I'm in Milan and the following in Amsterdam."
"Wow, you do get around. So, do you mainly come up with menus for restaurants or do you cook or…?"
"Greg is a highly sought-after chef all over the world," Blaise interrupted. "He is very well known in certain… circles." Blaise's tone was impatient, and the implication was clear as day. It was obvious this wizard still held certain prejudices. Circles, indeed.
"Greg, Blaise, Granger," a familiar voice greeted as it approached. Hermione smiled brightly when she discovered it was her newest friend.
"Theo!" She wanted to get him alone to ask about his night with Miriam. She guessed it went pretty well when the brunette herself stepped out from his shadow.
"Miriam," Hermione greeted in surprise.
"Hi, Hermione."
Theo ruffled his hair and somewhat awkwardly introduced the witch. "Miriam this is Greg Goyle and Blaise Zabini. Guys this is Miriam Jacoby."
Both men smiled and held their hands out for her to shake. When she got to Blaise, he held on to it and cocked his head to the side. "Jacoby, I'm not familiar with that surname."
Miriam shrugged. "I'm Muggleborn so I'm not surprised."
Blaise's smile lessened into a forced expression and his hand dropped from hers as he glanced at Theo.
Theo didn't seem to notice and added, "Miriam is a friend of Draco's."
Hermione noticed Miriam had eyes only on Theo. She had to admit Theo was very cute in a boy next door sort of way and she could see the attraction. But it was obvious that Blaise wasn't too impressed with the witch. She wondered if Draco was aware of his good friend's obvious prejudices. Of course, he is! How could he not?
"What are you guys doing out here?" Draco asked, suddenly appearing with his hand wrapped around M's.
"Enjoying a smoke," Greg responded.
"Well get inside. The pizzas are out and there is cake."
"Lucius' pizza?" Hermione asked.
"Well, it's Bilby's pizza…technically," Draco corrected.
The group started to make their way inside. "Who made the cake?" Hermione asked.
"I did," Greg responded, simply.
Hermione turned to him a smiled. "I can't wait to try it."
When walking back inside, Hermione beamed at Rose and Etan who were talking to Lucius. She dashed over and gave Rose a hug and Etan a kiss on the cheek. "You made it!"
Etan chuckled. "Rose insisted on it. Never mind that it took two middle of the night portkeys, a rather scary ride on a mine train, and a muggle plane to get here."
Hermione laughed. "Hmm, well. I guess the Himalayas aren't just a single portkey away. Was it a good trip?"
"It was amazing," Rose crooned. "The perfect anniversary."
"I'm so glad you had a great time. Rose, let's have lunch so that you can tell me all about it!"
Lucius' left eye cocked and he gave Hermione an amused smirk. "Severus is looking for you."
Hermione batted her eye lashes innocently. "Is he?"
"Why do I sense there is a story there?" Etan asked, bemused.
"Ever observant as always, my friend," Lucius offered as he clasped Etan's shoulder. "Come, let's get you two fed. You must be hungry from your journey."
"There you are!"
Hermione could not have missed the delicious tenor of her lover's voice if she had tried. Turning to the owner of said aphrodisiac, Hermione smiled innocently. "Hi Severus." She pressed up on her toes and gave him a kiss. "I've been looking for you."
"Have you now?" he asked somewhat skeptically.
She nodded. "Yes, and I have something for you."
Lucius, Etan, and Rose were gone by this time. Snape grabbed her arm gently and led her back out to the now empty balcony. Pressing her up against the railing he dipped his lips to hers. After a gentle buss, he asked silkily, "Did you do as I requested?"
Hermione playfully bit his cheek as she smiled, "Yes."
"Prove it," he demanded in a whisper as he nibbled on her ear.
Taking a subtle glance to confirm they were alone, Hermione guided his hand to her thigh, under the wrap around flap of the silky material that was her dress. She moaned when his warm, strong hand stroked her thigh and lightly trailed to between her legs. "Such a good girl," he cooed. "Although, I believe your assignment was to hand me your knickers, not to let me fondle your cunt."
Hermione's breath hitched. The word 'cunt' was such a turn on when it spilled from between his lips. "In my bag," she responded breathlessly.
"Again, not part of our agreement." His lips descended on hers in a brutal kiss. All thoughts of knickers were banished from her mind as her fingers thread into his hair.
"I'm not submitting right now, you realize?" she asked as she sucked his lip and lightly bit down. "So, you can't punish me."
His responding growl was followed by, "I am quite aware, Pet, that you are acting of your own free will this evening. However, you might recall, that your knickers were simply a bargaining tool to ensure my…good behavior, and since said knickers are not in my possession, well…I make no promises, Love." A hard slap landed on her bottom. "My evening just became a lot more interesting," he added.
The faces of the many guests began to flip through Hermione's thoughts. Her palms cradling his face, Hermione begged him to see reason. "Severus, Master…light of my life, please don't embarrass me! Please…you know that most of the people here no nothing of my…"
"Shh, shh. None of that. Come let's have some pizza and cake," he said with a grin as he took her hand and led her back inside.
They made their way to the pizza table to find Harry and Draco talking amongst themselves. She was so happy the two seemed to be getting along. She had not been planning on inviting Harry and Ron because they were not really friends of Draco's, but Lucius had insisted on it. They were her friends and since Lucius considered the Malfoy's to be her family, he also felt it was time the childhood rivalries came to an end. It appeared he had been right.
Hermione was about to comment when Luna approached her. "Hi Hermione. Hello, Professor."
"Hi, Luna," Hermione responded as Severus let out a heavy sigh beside her.
"Luna, I have told you several times to call me Severus. I am no longer your professor. I am no longer a professor, full stop."
"Of course, sir," she responded in her typical airy fashion.
"Nor do you need to address me as 'sir.'"
She studied him curiously for a second. "Hmm, for some reason I thought it was appropriate," she offered with a confused expression on her face. She stared at her drink. "It's the wrackspurts. They make my mind all fuzzy. The snorklerooks are nesting right now and are not culling the wrackspurts, you see."
Hermione was beginning to think she would have to come clean with the clairvoyant witch. Her friend could keep a secret, but she had to know it was a secret first.
"Luna, you and I should get together. I'm sure you could use a girl's night out now that the baby is here. Let Ron handle things for an evening."
"Oh, yes! I would like that very much." Her head tilted. "Can we go to the place with the costumes?"
What? Hermione was about to respond when there was a tinkling of crystal.
"Good evening, all. Thank you for coming." Lucius' voice carried over the voices that quickly fell into whispers and then silence.
Lucius was standing at the front of the room with a champagne glass held up. Hermione was surprised to see Blaise standing next to him. Just then several house elves appeared with trays carrying full champagne flutes and were taking the time to make sure everyone received one. Severus, Hermione, and Luna each took a glass as Lucius continued to speak.
"I have no interest in delaying anyone's enjoyment of this magnificent cake, so I'll make this brief." He looked at Draco who was standing next to M at the front of the crowd. "Draco, I am so very proud of the man you have become. I know I have not always been one to lavish you with praise," he paused, "I always left that to your Mother, who would be beaming with pride if she were here right now. However, I am telling you now that I could not be more proud to have you as my son. You have grown into an exemplary young man and I wish you all the happiness, love, and success in the world." He turned to the crowd, and raised his glass before declaring, "To Draco!"
There was a chorus of, "To Draco," and then everyone sipped their flutes.
Hermione's hand flew to her mouth when resuming conversations sounded like Alvin and the Chipmunks. There was brief silence and then raucous laughter as guests took great enjoyment in swallowing the beverage and saying ridiculous things.
M! Hermione could see M laughing hardily. Hermione had told Draco's girlfriend about the helium champagne she had given Draco for Christmas, but she had never imagined the witch would do this. Hermione knew for a fact that Lucius wouldn't, and she certainly hadn't. Although judging by the look Lucius was throwing her way, he certainly suspected her.
"Please tell me, you had something to do with this," Severus purred with obvious enjoyment.
"No! I didn't, I swear!"
"Pity, I would have commended you. I do so love to see Lucius' peacock feathers ruffled occasionally."
Hermione was suddenly very curious. She peeked up at him, "Severus, please take a sip and say something?"
He tossed a look at her like she was mad.
"Please?" she begged.
"No."
"I'll do whatever you say."
He smirked. "You already do that, twice a week."
"I'll give you a third night, every other week," she pleaded. He didn't know she was going to suggest it anyway. She internally laughed at the Slytherin tactics that were obviously rubbing off on her.
He studied her closely. "A third night every other week and 24-hours on a weekend once a month."
Hermione's inner submissive was doing somersaults. Another idea she was planning on suggesting unbeknownst to the smug faced wizard. Letting out a sigh of obvious defeat she groaned, "Fine, 24-hours one weekend a month as well."
Severus paused for a minute before taking a small sip.
It was close to eleven when the last guests were leaving. Lucius could tell Draco had a great time and that was all that had mattered. Hermione, Severus, Blaise, M and his son were all that was left of the crowd. The five retreated into Lucius' study where Cosmo greeted them with tremendous enthusiasm. The dog was growing so fast. When Lucius settled into his favorite wingback chair, Cosmo sat next to his legs and Hermione could swear the canine looked proud to be there. I can relate, she internally commiserated with the fluff ball.
"Why don't you all stay?" Lucius asked as Bilby brought glasses of refreshing sparkling water around to everyone. "Your suites are prepared with refreshments and night clothes."
Hermione immediately looked towards Blaise. Did he have a suite as well?
Draco shot a questioning glance at M who shrugged. "Up to you, love," she responded.
"Sure, thanks Father."
Knowing how Draco felt about spending a lot of time at the Manor, Hermione was quite certain Draco was agreeing to this for his Father's benefit more than his own. He was quite considerate where his dad was concerned.
"Excellent. We'll have a nice early breakfast before I have to head into the office."
Draco paused only a beat before asking, "I'll go in with you tomorrow, if that's alright? I really want to spend some more time with Claude in finance."
Lucius' eyes lit up. "Of course, of course." Lucius cleared his throat gently and Hermione was certain he was swallowing a heavy dose of emotion. Draco's new interest in learning the family business was fulfilling all of Lucius' dreams and hopes for the future of Malfoy Enterprises.
"I'll stay as well," Blaise offered. "My new flat doesn't feel like home yet and I always sleep well when I'm here."
Lucius smiled at him warmly. "Excellent! You know I prefer it when you are here."
This exchange confused Hermione. It seemed Blaise and Lucius were close. How had she not known this?
Lucius looked towards Snape and then herself.
"Hermione has an early case so I think we should be taking our leave," Severus responded on their behalf. He was right, she did have an early case but she felt a twinge of guilt for leaving. She hated disappointing Lucius.
"Ahh, understandable," he conceded with his usual grace.
"And on that note," Severus added as he looked towards Hermione, "we should head home, Pet."
She took the hand he held out to her and giggled when he pulled her close and tenderly kissed the top of her head. She looked back at Lucius to say goodnight and noticed he had a faraway look in his eyes that were fixed on her.
After a second he appeared to snap out of it. "Oh, yes. Let me walk you out."
Draco, M, and Blaise offered wishes for a good evening as the couple left with Lucius leading the way.
Thirty minutes later found Lucius alone in the ballroom. Well, it's not as perfect as Narcissa would have made it, but I think I did alright, Lucius told himself as he looked about the space. Elves were splendid creatures, they almost had the room completely back to rights. It was now that he was older, and far wiser, that he had realized how much in his life he had taken for granted. House elves, for instance. Magic as a whole. He had to admit that experiencing these things through Hermione's eyes and memories had helped him learn to appreciate his world even more.
His heart felt a bit heavy in his chest. Hermione was happy with Severus. And Severus was in love with the witch, even if he didn't know it yet. Lucius knew it, though. Salazar, Lucius wanted her, but he loved Severus. He couldn't bear to lose his friend. And trying to take Hermione away from him would be a death sentence to his lifelong friendship. It would never work anyway. Though he knew Hermione loved him, she was in love with Severus. Snape was the one she wanted to spend her life with.
Lucius stepped out of the room and headed down the hall. These thoughts weren't new. This wasn't some big epiphany. It was simply a rehash of what entered his mind most evenings. He desired the company of the woman who had loved him more than any other.
He stepped into the parlor and approached her portrait. His brow rose in surprise when she opened her beautiful oil painted eyes and looked at him. She slept most of the time and it was rare they talked.
"Lucius, why do you look tired?" Narcissa's rose colored lips asked.
"Hello, My Flower. I've just had some late nights lately."
"It's that club. I told you it was too much."
"Perhaps," he conceded, rather than arguing. "It's Draco's birthday and I threw him a surprise party in the blue ballroom, tonight."
The portrait's smile grew wide. "Oh, how delightful, Lucius. How is our son? Is he happy?"
Lucius sat on the chaise lounge and kicked off his shoes. He smiled up at his wife. "He is. I think he truly is. Actually, Cissy, I think he's in love."
Narcissa's face would have lit up had the non-changing paint allowed it. "Oh, Lucius, really? Tell me more. Tell me all about her!"
"I just want to shower before bed," Hermione said tiredly as she and Severus walked into her room.
"Well that seems counterproductive," the wizard said with a mischievous grin. "I'm just going to get you dirty all over again."
Hermione smirked as she looked over her shoulder at him. Seeing the desire in his eyes, she froze.
"You are so beautiful," he whispered. "You are ravishing."
Turning back towards him, Hermione felt a tremble of intense desire creep up her spine. "How ravishing?" she responded, so soft he barely heard it.
"I could never have my fill of you, Pet."
"Prove it."
Hermione had expected him to pounce on her. To take her. To exert his will over her. So when instead he simply stepped in front of her, never looking away from her eyes, she felt something shift between them.
This was new.
He tilted her chin up and leaned down to place the tenderest of kisses on her lips. Her breath hitched and when he deeply breathed in her exhale, it felt incredibly intimate. Erotic, even. His hands snaked around her and pulled her up against him as their lips delicately danced, neither one of them taking the lead.
After a moment, she reached behind her and took his hand, leading him towards the bed. He simply followed, his eyes never leaving hers. When they reached the edge, he deftly unclasped the button that held her dress closed. He leaned in and kissed her as his strong hands, with their lithe, long fingers, coaxed the silk garment off her shoulders and into a puddle on the floor. Her skin prickled with electricity where his touch skimmed down her shoulders and bare arms.
When his lips ghosted across her cheek and to her neck, she tossed her head back as a soft mewl escaped her vocal cords. The sound of his ragged breath in her ear told her how aroused he was. The hardness that was pressed up against her belly left no room for doubt.
When she arched her back, Severus cupped her bare arse with one hand as his other trailed to her right breast. She could feel the soft tendrils of her long hair on her bum and thighs as she arched further, desperate for him to suckle her nipples. He didn't disappoint. When he latched onto her breast and nibbled at the hardened, puckered flesh, Hermione allowed her body to go limp, knowing he wouldn't let her fall. And he didn't. As though she weighed no more than a feather, he simply scooped her up and draped her over the bed before gingerly crawling up and over her.
"You're still dressed," she whispered.
"This isn't about me. It's about me ravishing your exquisite body."
"But I want to feel you. Your skin against mine."
He chuckled. "Hmm, well, consider this the consequences of your knickers not ending up in my possession within the agreed upon time frame, love."
What? But she knew there was no point in arguing. Or begging. It was his game at this point. Hermione sighed dramatically. "Fine then, get on with the ravishing."
He laughed and responded silkily, "Oh, I intend to."
Hermione squirmed when she felt his hand reach between them to unclasp his belt. The sound of the buckle caused her to quiver. His mouth latched onto hers as she felt the leather slide off him and brush against her skin. She felt slightly disappointed when the belt landed on the floor.
Knowing her as he did, he whispered, "Not tonight, love. No spankings. No props. Just us. Just me devouring you."
She felt a swell of emotion and a deep satisfaction at his response. He was right. This was lovely. It was perfect. His lips, his touch, and his words. It was all she needed in this moment. It was all she wanted. But deep in the recesses of her mind, there was an uneasiness. A calling. A soul-deep hunger that begged to be fed. A hunger that only steel grey eyes could fill.