Staring at the ceiling from the bed, Bellatrix contemplated the last couple of days. She'd not left the spare bedroom she'd chosen, grateful that at least one of the house elves felt sorry enough for her to bring her some food three times a day. Truthfully, she felt completely better now. There was no reason to wallow in bed apart from her misery and guilt.
She shouldn't have left the Dark Lord, she knew that now. Her happiness and safety, she'd decided, were worth more than the Black name. Even if they did disown her, she'd be doing more than most to protect their blood. But it was too late. She knew he wouldn't take her back.
She was dreading the moment he summoned her. She didn't think she'd be able to even look at him without bursting into tears.
Bellatrix had some of his books. She knew she needed to return them, but she couldn't face the idea of not having them. Or not having any of his books… Not having him.
"Tom," she murmured, snuggling deeply under the duvet.
She didn't think she would speak that forbidden name to him again. She hated the thought of him hurt. The tears were prickling her eyelids again, but she didn't want to let them fall.
She closed her eyes and fell back to uncomfortable sleep.
x-x
She was awoken by a ferocious burning in her arm. She gripped her mark tightly, feeling sick and pulling herself from bed. Bellatrix hastily pulled her robes on, grimacing slightly as she looked in the mirror. She looked awful.
More nervous than she'd ever been, Bellatrix appeared into the Dark Lord's house and headed up to the office. She was dreading this encounter.
She froze as she saw him. Merlin, she loved him so much. This was going to be hard.
His expression was cold. "My followers kneel to greet me," he said, and Bellatrix felt herself wince at his icy tone. Biting her lip, Bellatrix dropped to one knee before him, knowing she had little choice.
She heard him step towards her and for a long moment she was scared that he was going to hurt her. Then she felt his fingers in the back of her hair, parting it to one side. She wondered what on earth he was doing, before realising he was checking that her fracture was healed. She felt sick as she remembered where it had come from. Then he pulled back and was sitting down again.
"My Lord…" Bellatrix began.
"I need you to write those drafts out neatly and owl them," he cut her off, pointing to the other table by the window.
"My Lord..." she said again, her voice pleading.
"I am not interested," he said coldly. "You are my servant. Nothing more. I was wrong to suggest otherwise."
Feeling tears prickling her eyelids, Bellatrix nodded, headed to the other desk and sat down. She gazed at the letters in front of her but found that she couldn't see them through her tears. She was so tempted to turn to him and tell him that she'd changed her mind, she loved him and she would do anything for him. But she was sure he was no longer interested in her, she was below him in every way.
Under the table, she flicked her wand towards her face, hoping it would dry her tears and preserve the makeup she was wearing. Inhaling, she set about re-writing the letters, completely numb and unaware of their content. It didn't take long. Relieved, she shoved the letters into their envelopes and headed towards the massive owl waiting by the window. The bird was usually friendly, but today it shot her a dirty look and flew away with a condescending hoot.
Nervously, she looked up to the Dark Lord, swallowing heavily. "Was there anything else, my Lord?" she asked, looking at her feet as she spoke.
He shook his head without looking up.
Biting her lip, Bellatrix turned to leave the room. She reached the door, touching the handle, before turning around to look at him. He was staring straight back and scowled as he realised he'd been caught. Bellatrix smiled slightly. "You saved my life. I will always be grateful and I will always serve you." She paused, looking into his red eyes with regret. "And I will always love you. Everything you have told me about you will remain between us, and the memories I have of our short time together will always be cherished." Bellatrix swallowed heavily, feeling her eyes well up again.
Voldemort didn't reply, he merely nodded slightly before looking back down to his work.
Wishing there was more to say, she pulled the door open and fled the room. The tears were flowing down her face as she ran down the stairs, and she knew she was going to need a couple of days more in bed.
x-x
A week later, Bellatrix was feeling – and looking – better. She'd moved permanently into the spare room, unable to even look at Rodolphus. He didn't seem to care, and she knew that he was preoccupied for now. That meant she was safe for the moment. There had been one full gathering in the week since she'd last seen Voldemort, but she'd feigned illness. She knew Voldemort would know why she wasn't there, and she didn't think he would mind not seeing her.
However, four days had gone since then and Voldemort had now invited the entire inner circle to dinner. She didn't know why he would insist on it, and she wondered if it was because of her.
She knew she couldn't lie a second time.
She'd dragged herself out of bed, sitting down at the dresser and staring at herself. She still looked rough and pale. After a quick shower, she felt better, although it hadn't helped her appearance.
After a long while of staring at herself, she finally pulled herself together enough to get ready. She curled her hair with one lazy flick of her wand, not really caring if the curls were perfect. She had no one to impress.
Bellatrix applied dark makeup around her eyes and lips, feeling that it matched her mood. Then she pulled on a simple black floor length evening gown she'd had the house elves fetch, paired with a set of dark green satin shoes.
She stared at herself in the mirror again. She looked lovely, but something was missing. She realised it was her confidence. She felt broken.
Knowing she had to go, Bellatrix stepped out of the bedroom and descended the stairs. Rodolphus and Rabastan watched her come down.
"Nice to see you up and about," Rabastan said, his voice full of spite as she reached them.
"Go and fuck yourself, Rabastan," Bellatrix replied, her voice level and calm. She looked at Rodolphus, seeing his smirk and smiling slightly as she heard Rabastan's exclamation of horror behind her.
"You look nice," Rodolphus murmured, smiling slightly. Bellatrix couldn't bring herself to smile back at him. She couldn't forget what he'd done to her. "Don't be like that," he continued, reaching out and stroking her face, his voice with a slight edge to it now.
Bellatrix pulled back from him, struggling to keep the expression of disgust from her face. "Shall we?" she asked, her voice cold. "We will be late if we don't hurry." She disapparated, noticing Rodolphus coming closer to take her hand and do it for her.
She apparated into the entrance hall of the Dark Lord's house, looking up towards the stairs as she did. She sighed lightly as she realised she wasn't going to get a chance to speak to him tonight.
Rodolphus and Rabastan arrived behind her, and Rodolphus was immediately by her side. "If you don't start behaving…"
Bellatrix rounded on him, glaring. "What?" she snarled back. "What could you possibly do to hurt me now, besides killing me?"
Rodolphus looked surprised and let go of her. Bellatrix took that as an opportunity to head into the dining room. She smiled slightly as she did, the room looked lovely. She noticed little name cards on each setting, and as she rounded the long table she realised that she was at the head of one end of it. She didn't need to go to the other end to see who was going to be directly facing her.
With a sigh, she sat down. She was disappointed that Rodolphus and Rabastan were on either side of her, with their henchmen on the seats next to them. It was going to be a long dinner.
The table filled up. Evan entered, looking down at her with a frown but realising he didn't have any time to come and speak to her as the Dark Lord entered with Lucius. Everyone hastily got to their feet. Bellatrix stood, but kept her eyes down. She couldn't bear to look at him.
"Please be seated," she heard him say, and gratefully she sat down. She made a study of the plate in front of her, the green and silver pattern on it reminding her of Hogwarts. "I have gathered my most loyal here tonight in order to celebrate our most recent success at the Ministry. We have infiltrated all departments, and soon I hope we will find ourselves a much more familiar minister."
Bellatrix glanced up, feeling her chest tighten as she saw him. He was smiling around him and Bellatrix couldn't remember seeing him so handsome. She must have zoned out for the rest of his speech, because suddenly it was over and the food was appearing.
Not hungry, Bellatrix pushed most of the food around the plate instead of eating it during the courses that came. None of the men she was sat near made any effort to speak to her. She didn't mind. All of her effort was going on not looking up at Voldemort.
Finally, when she could stare at the dessert no longer, Bellatrix looked up from her place at the top of the table, immediately noticing a dark red gaze on her from the other end. His face was intense and unsmiling, and Bellatrix couldn't help but stare back at him. He was so beautiful and she felt her heart almost burst at the thought of being with him forever.
When she felt sure everyone must be staring at her, she withdrew her gaze. The people sat around her hadn't noticed. She exhaled slowly, taking a sip of her wine. As she looked back up, she could see him looking. Unable to take it anymore, she stood up. Rodolphus didn't look away from his brother.
"Excuse me, it's rather hot in here," she said hastily, stepping from the room without looking back.
She reached the hall and moved towards the front door, wishing she could escape this hell. She leant her head against it, pleased to feel cool, smooth wood against her burning skin.
"Bella," she heard someone call. She knew it was him. She could hear his footsteps approaching and she turned to see.
His eyes were almost black.
Bellatrix found herself walking towards him to meet him, and she had grabbed the back of his neck, pulling him in to kiss her. He didn't kiss back for a second, apparently stunned at this movement, but then she could feel him responding to her. His hand found its way roughly into her hair, but it didn't hurt like it did when Rodolphus grabbed her by the hair, it felt nice. She moaned slightly at their contact, and she could feel him pushing her backwards until her back hit the door. The kiss continued, Bellatrix's core was throbbing in desire.
Finally, they parted.
"I can't go on like this," she murmured. "Tom, I am so sorry – I was so wrong to leave you like I did…"
Voldemort placed his hands on her cheeks, looking into her eyes. "I can't sleep for thinking about you."
Bellatrix felt the tears coming. She'd never felt so torn in her entire life. "I love you," she said, looking into his eyes. "More than I knew possible."
"So marry me," he said, reaching out and stroking her face. "I love you, more than Rodolphus could ever dream of."
Bellatrix rested her head against his chest, hoping to hide her tears from him. "Tom," she whispered, wishing someone would just make the decision for her. His arms closed around her, squeezing her tightly.
"Do the right thing for you, forget your family," he told her quietly.
"I can't see you every day like this," she replied, hearing her voice shaking. "Every time I see you, I feel like my heart breaks again."
"What are you saying?" he asked, his voice sharp. "Bella…"
"I don't know," she said quickly, unable to imagine a world where she didn't see him every day.
"You can't leave me," he replied, his voice quiet.
Bellatrix pulled back, looking into his face. Fixed on it was an expression she'd never seen before – he looked genuinely heartbroken.
"I don't know how I'd go on without you."
She frowned up at him, having never expected words like these to leave his lips. For the first time, he looked vulnerable. Her frown deepened. "Rodolphus could," she murmured.
Voldemort shook his head. "If only I'd met you first," he said softly, reaching out and stroking her cheek. "You'd be my wife." Leaning forward, he placed a gentle kiss on her lips. "You have to decide." Slowly, his hand ran down her hair. He looked miserable as he turned and walked away from her.
Bellatrix wanted to scream. He was right, she knew that. She had to choose. This was driving them both mad. Watching him reach the stairs, she quickly decided she needed to be close to him again. She ran after him, grabbing his hand and pressing her lips against his as soon as she could. "I choose you," she whispered when they parted. She could see him smile slightly, and when they kissed again she could feel his smile beneath her lips. "Kill him if you want," she whispered again as they parted once more.
Voldemort took her hand in his, pressing it against his chest. "My heart beats for you. I think I would do anything for you."
Bellatrix smiled, pulling him closer and kissing him once more.
"What the fuck is going on here?"
Her eyes snapped open, looking up at Voldemort. He was pushing her behind him, drawing his wand as he did so – and Bellatrix knew it was Rodolphus. She turned around, looking over to see that she was right. He looked furious.
"I knew it," he snarled. "My wife, the lying whore."
Bellatrix recoiled as he came closer. It was more a habit than a feeling of danger, the Dark Lord was standing between them.
"I suggest you re-think your words, Rodolphus," Voldemort said, his voice calm.
"I would ask you, my Lord, to keep out of our marriage," Rodolphus responded, his voice dark.
"I will remind you once not to forget yourself," Voldemort retorted. He took a step forward. "I admit, this situation has got out of hand."
"Just a little," Rodolphus said, glaring at Bellatrix.
"However, Bellatrix and I would not have developed this relationship if you had not abused and neglected her," Voldemort continued. "Two weeks ago, I found her here, in this very hall, half dead."
"She's had worse," Rodolphus replied.
"You know very well the damage you did."
Bellatrix felt sick thinking about it.
Voldemort advanced closer to Rodolphus. "Bellatrix has resisted me for years. I have tried my hardest, but she has remained loyal to you – for some reason that is inexplicable to me."
"She is my wife!" Rodolphus snapped back.
"Does that give you the right to treat her like a mudblood whore?" Voldemort replied. "She is a member of the aristocracy of our society. Her blood is of the purest in the country." He looked over his shoulder at her, his expression dark. "She is my most loyal follower," he continued, before turning back to Rodolphus. "By damaging her, you are damaging me."
Rodolphus's eyes were narrowed, but he didn't respond.
"I am taking charge of this situation," Voldemort said, his voice hard. "If I have to choose between you, I will. The choice is yours."
"And what is that choice?" Rodolphus snarled back.
Voldemort smiled, stepping forwards. "Agree to a divorce and swear never to go near Bellatrix again, or die. It's quite simple."
Rodolphus shook his head. "I'd rather die!" he shouted back.
Voldemort raised his wand, staring at Rodolphus. Then he laughed. "Do not doubt me, Rodolphus. You are not as valuable as you think you are. Bellatrix's worth weighs more than yours does."
"A fuck is worth more than what I have done for you?" Rodolphus replied bluntly.
"A fuck?" Voldemort asked. "No, you misunderstand. I am going to marry her." He advanced one more step further, and in response Rodolphus retreated a step. "It has been my intention since the moment I saw her. You kindly made that easier for me."
Rodolphus's jaw was tense. He looked away from Voldemort, over to Bellatrix. "And this is what you want? To marry him?"
Bellatrix shrugged. "I don't want to be married to you," she said quietly. "You terrify me more than the Dark Lord ever has."
Rodolphus was frowning again. "I'm sorry you feel that way."
For a moment, Bellatrix felt guilty. He seemed genuinely upset at this news. Voldemort turned back to her, frowning as well. He shook his head, and Bellatrix knew he was right. Rodolphus could never change.
"He nearly killed you," Voldemort said quietly, approaching her. "Save yourself now."
She looked up at him, sighing lightly. "I know. I have made my choice." She moved slightly, so that she could see Rodolphus. "The lawyer will be writing to you." Then she stepped back, looking at Voldemort for a moment before heading slowly up the stairs. She was aware of more things being said, but she found that she didn't care.
She was free. Finally, she had escaped hell.
There was a vague niggle in the back of her mind, reminding her that the Dark Lord had the potential to be just as bad as Rodolphus had been. But he'd been trying for years, and she did trust him. More than anyone else. He'd always been on her side, he had protected her and ensured she kept her place in his ranks, even though Rodolphus didn't like it.
Bellatrix entered the Dark Lord's sitting room, and suddenly realised this was probably where she lived now. She sat heavily down on the sofa, staring ahead of her. She couldn't believe it. She was free. If she wanted to have a baby now, she could. If she wanted to go on a raid, she could! Although she suspected that the Dark Lord hadn't minded that much about the request from Rodolphus to stop her going out.
The door behind her opened, and Voldemort entered. He moved first to the drinks cabinet, pausing there for a moment to pour drinks. Then he came and sat next to her, passing her the drink wordlessly.
Bellatrix swallowed it in one. She released a gentle sigh, before looking over at him. He looked back.
"I shouldn't have kissed you," she said quietly.
"Does the decision feel wrong now you've made it?" he asked.
"No." She stared ahead for a bit longer. "It feels strange." Blinking, she looked over at him. "Where do we go from here?"
Voldemort sat back, swirling his drink thoughtfully. "I don't know," he admitted after a moment. "You can stay here." He paused, looking up at her. "With me, if you want, or there's plenty of other rooms."
Bellatrix shrugged. "I've waited years for this moment, without even knowing what it was I was waiting for. You were always so… So beyond my reach."
Sitting forwards, Voldemort pressed his hand against hers. "Likewise." He looked down, and Bellatrix wondered what he was staring at until she noticed her wedding and engagement rings. Slowly, he lifted her hand and pulled the rings off. "Let him go now."
"He won't give in without a fight." Bellatrix chuckled. "Not because he loves me, but because I am his possession."
"You're not," Voldemort replied. "You are your own person." He sighed lightly. "I hope my guests have taken the hint and left."
Bellatrix laughed. "I hope so too." She leant closer to him, pressing a kiss against his cheek. "Thank you for never giving up, Tom," she said, her voice soft.
He smiled at her. "You've never given up on me."
"You're devastatingly gorgeous," she responded, smirking. "Why'd you think I'm so loyal to you?"
Voldemort laughed back. "You've certainly boosted my ego over the last few years."
Bellatrix smiled, sitting back in the chair. "Evan told me I shouldn't ever give in to you."
"He was right back then," Voldemort replied, smiling too. "I was awful. And it was lust. But things change." He looked over at her. "Do you want anything?"
"No." Frowning, Bellatrix shrugged. "I don't have anything now," she said quietly. "My mother is going to be furious."
"She won't when you tell her why."
Bellatrix looked up at him. "She knows," she replied, suddenly feeling a bit tearful. "She's known for ages."
Voldemort sat forwards and put his arms around her tightly. "You're safe with me. Nothing else matters." He stood up, lifting her into his arms. "Where are you sleeping?"
Smiling through her tears, Bellatrix put her arms around his neck. "With you."
"Thank Merlin," he said quietly, heading into his bedroom with her. "Three nights with you in my bed and I am ruined." Bellatrix smiled as he set her down on the bed. She slowly sat up and pulled off her robes, leaving her in a loose black dress. She kicked off her shoes and lay her head on the pillow.
As she looked up, she could see him removing his robes. She looked back down, knowing she was in no mental state to engage with him that way tonight. She knew he would respect her and not try. She snuck another peek, he was kind of her boyfriend now, after all.
She noticed a smirk on his lips as he got into bed. "Am I, indeed?" he said, moving to face her.
"Your Legilimency skills wind me up sometimes," Bellatrix said, rolling her eyes.
Voldemort laughed. "I can't even help it sometimes." He caught her gaze, serious now. "But is that really what I am?"
"If you want," Bellatrix responded, trying to be indifferent.
"What do you want?"
"You." She looked at him with a smile. "I'm in shock. I can't even believe this has happened. I'm free from him."
Voldemort was silent for a moment, watching her in contemplation. Then he shifted a bit closer. "I will remove your mark if that's what you want. You will owe me nothing."
Bellatrix shook her head. "I love my mark. It connects me to you." She paused contemplatively. "The day you gave it to me… You seemed so angry."
"I was furious," he admitted. "I didn't want you to take the mark."
"Why?"
"Because I knew Rodolphus wouldn't like it, in the end." He paused, looking up at her. "But something was telling me I needed to keep you close to me. And that something was right." He smiled. "Plus I really wanted to fuck you."
Bellatrix laughed. "Such a whore, aren't you?" she said, smiling over at him. "You did try very hard."
"And I won." He looked into her eyes, tilting his head closer to kiss her. "I love you. Soon, I will explain myself to you."
Bellatrix frowned slightly. "What do you mean?"
"I mean I will tell you everything I have done." He kissed her again, slipping his arm around you. "But not just yet. I want to marry you and own you completely."
Bellatrix sighed. "No one owns me, Tom. Not even you."
Voldemort nodded. "I know," he murmured. "But if you are my wife… You'll be more mine than his."
Bellatrix nodded back, tilting her head so she could kiss him. "I will," she agreed to when they'd parted.
"We can make plans in the morning," Voldemort said softly, pressing another kiss to her forehead.
Nodding again, Bellatrix shut her eyes. As she snuggled against him, she couldn't remember a time where she'd felt so safe.
x-x
Bellatrix awoke the next morning, feeling blissfully relaxed and content. She turned over, looking at the Dark Lord with a smile. His eyes opened a crack, before he slid his arm around her and pulled her closer. Bellatrix curled herself against him. "Morning," he murmured, kissing the top of her head.
"Morning," Bellatrix replied, kissing the side of his arm.
"Are you alright?" he asked after a moment, and Bellatrix was aware of what had happened last time she'd woken up in his bed.
She nodded. "I'm perfect," she said, tilting her head to look at him. She smiled again, seeing his perfect face looking down at her in concern. "Honestly."
"You are," he replied, smirking slightly. "Today… I've got a couple of things to do, but I'd really like to take you out to dinner."
Bellatrix squeezed him. "Are you taking me on a date?"
Voldemort laughed. "I suppose I am."
"Can we go somewhere quiet? I don't want… people to see…" Bellatrix sighed lightly. She meant that she didn't want Rodolphus's henchmen seeing them. "Not yet."
Voldemort pulled her closer to him, turning her over slightly so she was looking at him. "I will protect you, Bella. Nothing will happen to you again, I swear."
"I know, Tom," she murmured in reply, pressing a kiss against his lips. "It's just going to end up in the papers anyway, and I'd rather you don't get dragged into it."
"I'll stop that, I have some influence at the Prophet," he said firmly. "But yes, we can go somewhere quiet." He kissed her hair again. "Do you need to get anything from Rodolphus's house? You don't have any clothes here."
Bellatrix shook her head. "No. He chose all of those."
Voldemort chuckled slightly. "He chose which clothes you should wear?" he asked incredulously.
Bellatrix scowled slightly. "Yes," she said darkly.
"Is that why you only ever wore long dresses?"
She looked over at him, smirking. "He didn't want to attract any competition."
Voldemort laughed. "I think it attracts more, we've all had to use our imaginations."
"What do you mean, we've all?" Bellatrix asked, frowning.
"I was the only one that was brave enough to flirt with you, but definitely not the only one wondering what was underneath your many layers." Voldemort smirked at her. "You can expect a fair few offers of marriage when your divorce gets announced."
"There is only one I am eagerly awaiting," Bellatrix replied, smiling as she caught his gaze.
"I would marry you right now if I could," he responded. "Not just to find out what lies beneath the clothes."
Bellatrix grinned. "Are you suggesting no sex before marriage?" she asked sarcastically.
"Absolutely not." He shifted slightly, smirking again. "As if you could resist me."
Laughing, Bellatrix sat up, looking down at him. He was so gorgeous, his red eyes dancing with amusement, his hair tussled and half of his chest revealed from under the duvet. "Do you remember the time I called you an arrogant fuck?"
"Vividly," he replied quickly, sitting up to face her. "The memory has brought me to orgasm more times than I could count."
Bellatrix rolled her eyes, looking over at him. "Why…?" she asked, not entirely sure how that would turn him on.
He shrugged. "Because you have so many reasons to be afraid of me, and yet you have never been. And that is sexy."
"I have been scared," Bellatrix replied, sliding across the bed. "The first time I came here was scary."
Voldemort shook his head, watching her get out of bed. "Trust me, compared to some people you were incredibly calm." He paused. "And cheeky."
Bellatrix looked up at him, grinning. "You love it. Keeps you grounded."
He laughed, getting out of bed and approaching her. "You can be my voice of reason." He slid one arm around her, drawing her close and pressing a lingering kiss on her lips. "Are you going to your lawyer today?"
She nodded. "The Black family have a man. He fixes things quickly and discretely."
"Want me to come with you?"
Bellatrix considered. "I would but… I don't want to complicate anything."
"Are you worried about seeing Rodolphus?" he asked quietly after a moment.
"Yes," she mumbled into his chest.
"Because…?"
"Because he'll still be angry, and when he's angry…" She couldn't bring herself to finish the sentence.
"How about I get Evan to go with you? I don't want you alone at the moment."
She could hear the concern in his voice. To be fair, she wasn't overly thrilled at the idea of going out without someone with her at the moment. "That sounds like a good plan." She pulled back, smiling up at him. "Love you."
Voldemort smiled, his face relaxing. "I love you too, Bella. I am so pleased that…" He trailed off, pausing to look at her. "That you feel the same way. I haven't been sure, we've been dancing around the point for so long now."
"I think I've been in love with you since the first moment I saw you," she replied, smiling. "And I hope we can be together forever now."
"I…" He stopped himself talking, and Bellatrix could see he was thinking deeply. "I will share my secret of immortality with you. When we are married."
Bellatrix shook her head. "I am surely not powerful enough."
Voldemort smiled, a small considered smile. "You are. I promise." He paused. "You just might be a bit sick."
"I don't want to know," she said softly, shaking her head. "Do you mind if I organise some clothes to be delivered from Knockturn Ally?"
"Of course not. I will give you my Gringotts account number."
Bellatrix shook her head again. "I've got plenty in my own vault." She could see his expression of protest, but she remained firm. "It's my money, not his. I want to spend it on myself."
"Alright," he said, his voice still not convincing her he agreed really. "But I am buying dinner."
Smiling in spite of herself, Bellatrix rolled her eyes. "Don't get all masculine about it, Tom."
He was smiling back. "I knew you'd be argumentative. You are perfect."
"As if that's what you want," Bellatrix replied, rolling her eyes again.
"It is," he insisted, squeezing her tightly against him. "People only ever agree with me. It gets boring."
Bellatrix laughed, stepping away from him. "I'm going to use your ostentatious shower now. Could you give me half an hour and then summon Evan?"
"It's not ostentatious!" he called after her.
"It is," she called back, shutting the door. She was pleased he wasn't being too pushy with her, she really wasn't ready to be physical with him just yet.
She grinned to herself. He was lovely really.
x-x
Evan was beside himself with excitement when she'd told him the news. She was very pleased she'd taken him to see the lawyer, she'd ended up bursting into tears as she recalled the injuries that had been inflicted on her and how Rodolphus had been adulterous from the very beginning. The lawyer had been very sympathetic and was confident the Ministry would grant the divorce, especially considering Rodolophus's known Death Eater activity.
She was pleased that she hadn't been linked to the Dark Lord so far, although she kind of hoped that would soon change.
The lawyer thought that the whole matter could be settled within a month.
She'd decided she would write to her family to tell them the news. She didn't think she would be disowned. With Evan's help, along with a stiff drink, they'd come up with some wording that implied she was already promised to another suitable man.
"I don't care if I am disowned though," Bellatrix had told Evan fiercely. "Would they prefer me dead?"
Following the drink at the pub, Bellatrix had dragged Evan to some clothes shops. He had stayed fairly close, if not fully engaged, though she'd definitely caught him looking carefully through a rack of lingerie. He was a bit horrified when he saw her choosing her own underwear.
"I can't even think of you like that," he said, shaking his head. "I'm going to have a word with the Dark Lord and tell him he can't hurt you."
Bellatrix laughed. "He's such an angel, honestly!"
Evan shook his head again. "No he's not, I promise."
"He's no worse than you."
"Fair enough," Evan replied after a moment of consideration. "Anyway, you're like my little sister. And I will tell him so."
When they were finally done shopping, Evan insisted on escorting her straight to the Dark Lord. Bellatrix was excited to see him again, practically climbing over the desk in his office to reach him. He squeezed her tightly to him.
"Everything alright…?" he asked, looking up to Evan. A frown crossed his face, and Bellatrix could see a look of panic on Evan's. Then Voldemort laughed slightly. "Understood, Evan. If I upset her, I will have you to deal with."
Bellatrix realised Evan must have been fairly transparent with his thoughts.
"It's fine," Voldemort said, amusement in his voice. "Evan, you have worn my mark the longest. I am pleased you will ensure the safety of my future wife." He looked down at Bellatrix, his expression softening. "She is my prize."
Evan looked a little disgusted. "I think I will leave you to it," he said, turning away. "Before I vomit." He looked back. "So, wait, does this mean you're off the market and I can't use you to pull anymore?"
Voldemort laughed. "I am afraid so."
Even grinned. "I'll cope." He turned and left the room.
Sitting back down, Voldemort pulled Bellatrix with him so she was perched on his lap. "So, what happened?"
"All good," Bellatrix replied, smiling. "Lawyer doesn't see a problem. Evan has provided evidence of abuse and adultery."
"And you got some clothes?"
Bellatrix nodded. "Should be arriving in your rooms at any moment."
Voldemort nodded slowly. "Our rooms, Bella. I want you to feel a sense of belonging."
Smiling, she kissed him. "That's what I meant."
"I know it must be hard to believe… That I of all people could feel like this…" He shook his head.
"I've always thought of you as a man," Bellatrix replied softly. "I do believe you."
"Good." He paused. "I am expecting Rodolphus shortly."
"Oh," Bellatrix said, feeling a bit tense at that. "I… I do need to give him the engagement ring back. It was his mother's and… He should have it."
"Perhaps another time?" Voldemort asked softly.
"Yes," Bellatrix agreed, knowing she wasn't ready to face him after last night.
"I got some things from the attic of this house for you…" He trailed off, looking at her carefully. "It's jewellery. From my ancestry." He smiled slightly. "I know you hated the jewellery Rodolphus got you… Because he just wanted to show off his wealth."
Bellatrix pressed a kiss against his lips. "Tom, you're not him."
He smirked slightly. "No, I'm not. But I just want to be clear – I am giving you these items because words are not enough for me." His arms tightened around her.
"You don't need to justify your gift," Bellatrix said, smirking at him. "I am grateful to be your…" Their eyes met. "Girlfriend. You finally have a real girlfriend."
Voldemort laughed, kissing her again. "There's no rush for anything."
"There is, though. I want to make up for lost time." She turned herself around, moving one leg on either side of his so she was facing him front on. Then she looped her arms around his neck.
"Bella…" he murmured, frowning slightly. "This is…"
"Am I getting you hard?" she whispered in his ear, amusement in her tone.
"I get hard just by looking at you," he replied, his voice gravely. "This is… torture…" Bellatrix laughed, wiggling her hips. She could feel him pressing into her leg. "And as tempting as you are, I want to savour you. A quick fuck in my office is not what I had planned."
"Oh, me neither," Bellatrix replied, getting off him. She pecked a kiss against his cheek. "This is my revenge for that Occlumency lesson."
"Fair enough," he said, nodding with a smirk. "I deserve that."
Bellatrix smiled back, looking into his eyes. "I will expect you… in our rooms… shortly." As she left the room, she realised she was completely smitten with him. She knew he would be a wonderful husband to her.
As she headed across the hallway, she could see Rodolphus heading up the stairs. She gripped her wand as he saw her.
"Bellatrix," he said, his voice icy cold.
"Rodolphus," she responded, pausing to look at him for a moment, before shaking her head and continuing her journey to her new bedroom. She wasn't sure what else Voldemort had said to him last night, but she suspected the wording had been strong and now Rodolphus knew he was on borrowed time if he didn't leave her alone.
As she made it into the bedroom, Bellatrix was pleased to see several packages on the floor by the bed. She couldn't wait to hang them up in her new wardrobe.
As she looked around the room, excited to see the jewellery he'd chosen for her, she spotted a large, dark mahogany box on the dressing table. Intrigued, she crossed the room and opened it.
A loud gasp left her lips. The most beautiful, Slytherin necklace greeted her. It was made from silver with large emeralds and diamonds adorning it. She could see matching drop earrings. A tiny tag attached to the necklace read 'Sylvia Slytherin' – and Bellatrix was suddenly aware that this set of jewellery had once belonged to Salazar's wife.
"Merlin!" she said to herself, almost afraid to touch the set. She lifted the layer from the box, seeing a deeper section below. Inside that were several smaller boxes. The first one she picked up and opened had a small chain with a small diamond on the end. She liked it instantly, knowing it was something she could wear discretely and be reminded of him.
The others contained beautiful necklaces – a ruby set along with some diamonds – and matching earrings. Each had clearly belonged to a member of the Slytherin family, the last set of diamonds belonging to a Gaunt.
It was very sweet he'd gone to this effort, and she was desperate to know how he was the last heir of Slytherin and what the link was. She wasn't sure she felt she could ask him about it though, he was very secretive and she almost wanted him to come out and tell her in his own time.
She grinned as she unpacked her new clothes and hung them up. He'd made space for her in his wardrobe and drawers. As she put out her hairbrush and new set of makeup, he walked into the room.
Bellatrix launched herself into his arms as she saw him, squeezing him tightly. "Thank you, I love the jewellery."
Voldemort's arms closed around her. "I liked those best, and you deserve the best."
Bellatrix tilted her head, looking up at him and kissing him gently. The kiss developed into a more passionate one, and she could feel the desire coursing through her veins. Voldemort pushed her gently against the wall, pressing his body against hers as he kissed her. "Tom," she murmured.
He moaned into her mouth, his hand at the base of her neck, gently moving his fingers in tiny circles on her skin. Then he pulled back, his eyes a much darker shade of red. He exhaled sharply, crossing the room. "I won't be able to stop," he said, after a moment. He looked up at her. Bellatrix was panting slightly, leaning heavily against the door.
She nodded slowly. Truthfully, she wasn't ready. She still needed to heal – Rodolphus had damaged her more than she liked to admit. "Thank you," she murmured. He pulled his robes off. Bellatrix gasped at his sudden bare chest.
Voldemort laughed. "It's not like you've never seen this before," he said, pulling another set of robes on.
"Arrogant fuck," Bellatrix muttered, but she couldn't help her smile.
He chuckled. "Are you ready to go?" he asked.
"Dressed like this?" Bellatrix asked, indicating her dark green robes.
Voldemort looked her up and down. "Am I missing something?" he said, smirking.
"It's not exactly… dinner attire."
"Bella." He crossed the room, pressing a kiss against her hair. "You could wear a sack and still be the most attractive woman in the world. Your robes are fine, I like…" He trailed off, looking down at her cleavage. "I like them," he settled on, looking back up at her face.
Bellatrix snorted with laughter. "Of course you do," she replied, heading over to the jewellery box and pulling the small pendant out. She clasped it around her neck, turning back to him with a small smile.
"Beautiful," he said, his gaze intense on her. He took her hand, kissing her hand. "Let's go."
As he disapparated them, Bellatrix was overcome with his power. She could feel how effortless it was. She was about to compliment him on their smooth landing when she was distracted by the most beautiful view – they were at the top of a hill overlooking the sea and sunset. "Where – where are we?" she asked.
"Southern Italy," he replied, his voice slightly smug.
"Italy?" she repeated back, looking up at him. He was smirking at her.
"I couldn't take you to any old place for our first dinner as a couple."
Bellatrix turned to him and threw her arms around him. "Thank you," she said thickly, feeling emotional.
Voldemort gestured to the restaurant behind them. "Shall we?" he asked, offering his arm.
Smiling happily, she took it, allowing him to lead her to the restaurant.
x-x