Rubbing her eyes, Bellatrix decided to head for her own bed. It was late after all and there was no way of knowing how the now fed Hermione would respond when she woke up. Ordering a house elf to notify her as soon as that happened, she headed for her room and prepared to go to sleep.

The next day, she woke around noon. "Bitsy!"

A 'plop' told her a house-elf had arrived, but when she cracked open an eye – truly not being a morning person – she saw it was Toma standing next to her bed.

"What happened to Bitsy?" she grumbled.

"Bitsy is watching the young missus, Mistress."

"What?"

She growled as she saw the house elf suppressing a smile. However, the elves were well used to her morning persona and therefore wholly unafraid of it.

"The young missus, Mistress Black." As soon as she had turned widow, Bellatrix had made sure to return to her maiden name. Without losing all Rodolphus had left her, of course. "The one Mistress and Madame Malfoy brought home yesterday. Bitsy is watching her."

Bellatrix groaned as she remembered. It hadn't been a dream, sadly enough. "Hermione," she mumbled.

"What you say, Mistress?"

"The girl's name is Hermione," she repeated. "Coffee, Toma. Strong, black. And toast."

"Certainly, Mistress."

Bellatrix burrowed back under the sheets to await Toma's return. It was another 'plop' and the smell of coffee that roused her from her dozing.

"Don't you dare open the curtains, Toma," she said without even looking.

"Mistress needs light to wake up," the elf answered unapologetically. "It's for her own good."

Bellatrix covered her eyes with her arm – meanwhile grabbing for her wand with her free hand – as Toma threw open the curtains.

"You loathsome little elf!" she screamed. "I'll curse you for this!"

"Toma must be going now, many duties to do."

He was gone before her eyes adjusted and she could properly aim for him. Muttering expletives under her breath, she dragged herself out of bed and towards the table in the corner. Coffee. She needed coffee.

It was a habit she'd picked up from Antonin, one of Rodolphus's friends, and hadn't been able to shake since. She still preferred tea at any given moment of the day, except in the morning. Whilst trying to wake up, coffee was her best friend.

Slumping down into a chair, she sipped from her morning fix. Her breakfast tray consisted of more than just toast. The elves knew her well enough to add a croissant to the mix, as well as butter and marmalade.

The food had to wait though. She could still smell blood on her skin, since she had not bathed before dropping down the evening before. A shower was most definitely needed.

Eventually, more than an hour after waking, she managed to drag herself – bathed, clothed and fed – out of her room. Not really knowing what to do with her day, she checked on Hermione and then amused herself with searching her closet for things the girl could wear. Under no circumstance was she letting Hermione go for tea at the Malfoy's in the clothes she was currently wearing.

She was already drinking away her boredom by the time the sun was going down and Toma appeared next to her. Bellatrix narrowed her eyes. The elf had been avoiding her all afternoon, sending one of the other elves as she called for him.

"Young missus is stirring, Mistress," Toma quickly said. "Not awake yet, but stirring."

"You are such a lucky elf," Bellatrix grumbled, rising from the sofa she'd been lounging in.

"Toma only wishes to serve, Mistress."

"Yes, yes. Be gone."

She rushed up to Hermione's room and found that the girl was indeed twitching in her sleep but hadn't woken yet. Bitsy was still waiting next to the bed, carefully watching the girl, but Bellatrix sent her away and settled into the lounge chair next to the bed. Ten minutes later, Hermione opened her eyes.

"Welcome back to the living," Bellatrix commented dryly.

The girl flinched violently at her voice, scooting to the other side of the bed in a reflex. Her eyes grew wide as they focused on Bellatrix, then turned resigned. She scooted from under the blankets and went to kneel in the middle of the bed, facing the other witch. The look in her eyes didn't change.

"If you're going to kill me, please do it now."

"Kill you?" Bellatrix asked, shocked. "Why would I kill you?"

"Because...because I bit you." Hermione's voice sounded confused, carrying a touch of self-loathing.

"How did you manage to completely miss the part where I liked it?"

"Liked it? But—that's...how?" Hermione was staring at her. "I don't understand."

Bellatrix stood and went to sit on the bed, reaching out to cup Hermione's cheek. "I know you don't, Missy. I know."

"Missy?"

"Would you prefer Mione? Or perhaps Hermy?" Bellatrix teased.

"Missy will do just fine for now," Hermione growled.

"Good. Now off you go, into the shower."

"What?"

"You'll be living here for the time being. And you need a shower. Bathroom's through there."

"Living here? But I- I have a flat."

"Don't you worry about that," Bellatrix soothed, pushing Hermione off the bed and towards the bathroom door. "Tell me where it is and I'll get it all fixed."

"But—"

"No more buts. Take that shower. We'll sort it all out later."

Bellatrix grinned as an astounded, completely baffled Hermione finally stepped into the bathroom. Once the shower turned on, she called out for Rin. The elf promptly appeared next to her.

"Rin may help, Mistress?"

"Grab her clothes as soon as she's in the shower," Bellatrix ordered. "Wash them and, uhm, I don't know, store them somewhere where she can't find them anymore. They're absolutely dreadful. Leave her a bathrobe to wear once she's done showering."

"Yes, Mistress."

Once the elf was gone, Bellatrix called for Toma.

"How can Bitsy be of help to the Mistress?"

Bellatrix glanced at Bitsy and rolled her eyes. "Get the clothes I selected earlier and bring them here. Put them on the bed. And tell Toma he's a coward."

"Yes, Mistress, certainly."

Given how gleeful the elf sounded, Bellatrix figured she was a bad influence on the little creatures. Shrugging, she sat back down in the lounge chair and waited for Hermione to reappear, meanwhile watching several sets of clothes appear to spread out on the bed. It didn't take long before the shower turned off and muffled cursing could be heard. Bellatrix smirked.

"Where are my clothes?" Hermione demanded as soon as she stepped out of the bathroom.

There was a sparkle in her eyes Bellatrix hadn't seen before. A will to fight. It pleased her.

"In the laundry," she answered, hoping they would never reappear again.

"You could have at least waited until I went to my flat!"

"No need, Missy." She made a grand gesture towards the bed. "Pick whatever you need. We'll need to resize them a bit – you are smaller than me – but they'll suit you just fine."

Hermione glanced from Bellatrix, to the bed, and back.

"You're giving me some of your clothes?"

Bellatrix shrugged. "I can always buy more."

"They're all black," Hermione commented as she surveyed them.

"Got a problem with that?"

"Uhm, no, no, not at all…" Hermione squeaked. "Wait! Is that a McKenna?"

"I see you recognise good design. Makes you wonder why you dress like a homeless person."

"I do NOT dress like a homeless person! It's comfortable. And this skirt alone probably costs more than a month's rent."

Bellatrix smiled at the stunned vampire running her fingers over the skirt's fabric. "I'll take you shopping someday then."

"Did I not just say I can't afford this?"

Moving to stand beside Hermione, Bellatrix reached out to swipe a wet curl behind the girl's ear. "I'll be paying, of course."

Hermione's head snapped up. "You can't possibly…who are you?"

Bellatrix laughed. "Bellatrix Black," she answered with a mock curtsy. "I was a Lestrange for some time, but that got…solved."

"Oh."

"Put on the skirt, Missy, and this shirt is the perfect match."

"Oh, okay. Uhm, can I at least change the colour of the shirt?" Bellatrix glared at her. "It's just, uhm, no judging, not at all, I'm not used to wearing this-, this much black."

Bellatrix felt her heart soften at the girl's nervous explanation. "I could accept a charcoal grey."

Hermione stared at her. "That's not-" Bellatrix lifted an eyebrow. "Charcoal grey it is," Hermione amended. With a flick of her wrist, her wand dropped into her hand.

"Do you always keep your wand in a holster on your arm?"

"Pretty much."

"Why?"

"Experience has taught me it's a good idea."

Bellatrix decided she did not like that answer and wondered what the girl had been through to come to such a conclusion. Her ruminations were interrupted when Hermione cleared her throat.

"Could you turn around?"

"We're all women here," Bellatrix answered with a smirk.

"Yes, well, I get the feeling you would enjoy watching me strip a bit too much."

"You sound like my sister," Bellatrix complained, turning around.

"Your vampire sister."

"Yes, Narcissa, we haven't seen Andromeda for quite some time."

"There's another one?"

Bellatrix snorted at the shock in Hermione's voice. "She's not a vampire, if that's what you're thinking. She ran off with a Muggle when we were younger. Mother was furious. We haven't heard from her since. There was some hope she would reconnect after mother died, but still nothing. Our owls returned with the letters unopened."

"Is she…"

"Dead? No. The family tree would tell us if she died."

"Oh, okay. I'm dressed, by the way."

Bellatrix turned back around and tried not to gape. Narcissa had been right. Underneath that drab clothing was a fine looking young witch. She had an almost perfect hourglass shape, with her hips just a tad bit wider than her shoulders. The skirt showed off her lean legs and her breasts were small but perfectly proportioned to her lithe frame.

"Well, don't you look pretty," Bellatrix commented, looking Hermione up and down, causing the girl to squirm. "Your hair is starting to frizz, though. At least it has some life now. It looked like dried out grass yesterday."

Hermione self-consciously tried to smooth down her hair. "It's impossible, this hair of mine!" she complained.

"Nonsense! Let's get you some breakfast and then I'll fix it for you."

"What? No!" Hermione immediately answered, distressed.

"You don't want me to fix your hair? Fine. You don't have to be so repulsed by it."

"I don't want breakfast," Hermione exclaimed. "What are you thinking? No!"

Bellatrix frowned. "What's wrong with a croissant or two? You look like you could use some extra weight."

"Croissants?" Hermione echoed, sounding confused again. "I can eat croissants?"

"Yes of course. Don't tell me you haven't been eating!"

"Well, uhm."

Bellatrix crossed the room towards Hermione, cupping the girl's face with both hands. "Tell me you haven't been starving yourself."

"How was I supposed to know?" Hermione lashed out. "Some lore says it would kill me," she finished much quieter.

"Oh, my poor, silly girl," Bellatrix answered, brushing her thumbs across Hermione's cheeks. "It won't kill you. You need to eat. No wonder you look so skinny. Come on, let's go to the kitchen. I'll have the elves make you something light but nutritious."

"Bellatrix?" Hermione asked while being dragged through the halls of the manor.

"Call me Bella, sweetie. What is it?"

"What happened when that man showed up yesterday? It was yesterday, wasn't it? How did I end up here? Where am I?"

"So many questions," Bellatrix teased.

"I'm sorry."

"Why are you apologising?"

"I know I ask too many questions. It got me into trouble more than once. So, I'm sorry."

Bellatrix stopped to regard Hermione. "You got into trouble for asking too many questions?"

Hermione shrugged. "People don't like it."

"That's—" Bellatrix shook her head. "The kitchen is just around the corner, I'll explain what happened as soon as you're eating."

Not much later, Hermione was served broth with a few slices of dark bread.

"Broth as breakfast?" she commented with a frown.

"It is best for the missus," Toma – who had decided to show up again – commented. "You have sensitive stomach now."

"No croissants?"

"Croissants are too heavy for the missus."

"I promised her a croissant, Toma."

The elf looked between Bellatrix and Hermione. "Perhaps after broth?"

Bellatrix grumbled her assent and the elf hastily retreated.

"He's afraid of you?" Hermione asked, a hint of reproach in her voice.

"He knows better than to open the curtains while I'm still in bed."

This made Hermione laugh; a sound Bellatrix could wholly appreciate. "Eat," she said, gesturing to the bowl of broth.

"Are you sure I can eat this?" Hermione asked.

"I've seen Narcissa eat all types of food, I'm certain you can stand a bit of broth."

Hermione carefully scooped a spoonful up into her mouth and, after a slight hesitation, swallowed it down. She seemed to wait for something to happen, and when nothing did, she eagerly dug in.

"Slow down, Missy," Bellatrix said with a laugh. "You'll get sick from eating too fast."

The girl threw her a guilty look. "I'm a little hungry."

"No doubt." Silence reigned as Bellatrix watched Hermione eat while she sipped her tea. "It was indeed yesterday," she commented when Hermione finally seemed to stop gobbling down her food. "You only slept through the rest of the night and during the day today."

"Good," Hermione answered between two spoons of broth. "What happened? I remember this man." Bellatrix grinned as Hermione paused, lost in thought, that well-known 'damn he was hot' look in her eyes. "Anyway, he was standing in front of me, and I felt, I don't know, a tug or something and then all went black. I woke up, well, you know where I woke up."

"The man's name is Lucius; he's my sister's husband," Bellatrix responded. "He put you to sleep."

"He what?" Hermione exclaimed her head snapping up to look at her.

"He put you to sleep."

"He can do that? Vampires can do that? I thought that was a myth!"

"You thought you couldn't eat food either," Bellatrix replied dryly.

"Yes, well…"

Shaking her head at the girl's foolishness, Bellatrix continued. "He can only do it because he's a born vampire."

"A born vampire?"

"Yes. Opposed to those who are sired, such as you."

"But, but how does that work? So I can't put anybody asleep? Can I do other stuff? Can I sire other vampires? How does that work? And..." She mumbled an apology as Bellatrix lifted her hand to stop her flow of questions.

"Don't apologise, Missy," she mildly rebuked. "It's logical you have these questions; I'm just not the person to answer them. We'll be going for tea at my sister's once we're finished here. She'll no doubt explain."

"Oh. Is this your… home, then?"

"You're at Lestrange Manor. I inherited it from my late husband, so yes, it's my home." She eyed the empty bowl and the half-eaten bread. "Do you still want that croissant?"

Hermione shook her head. "I'm afraid your elf was right. Sensitive stomach."

"Perhaps tomorrow then." Bellatrix smiled. "Let me fix your hair now."

"You think you can actually do something with this?"

"Mine looks just like yours when I come out of a shower."

Hermione eyed her critically. "I doubt that."

"We'll see."

Bellatrix ordered Toma to fetch her brush and hair products and within minutes, she had Hermione limply leaning against the back of the chair, her eyes closed.

"You like having your hair brushed, don't you?" Bellatrix murmured, carefully dragging the brush through the girl's hair.

"Hmm."

Bellatrix smiled as she put the brush aside and gathered Hermione's hair in her hands. She shivered as Bellatrix's fingers brushed the sensitive skin of her neck. Bellatrix licked her lips. If only she knew if the girl would be amenable to more. She would have to brush her hair all over again once Bellatrix was finished with her.

"Your heart rate is picking up," Hermione mumbled, seemingly half out of it.

"Is it?"

"Hmm. Don't stop combing my hair. I meant no insult."

"You want more?"

"Yes."

Bellatrix licked her lips again and swallowed, trying to push down her desire. She continued dragging her fingers through Hermione's hair, feeling its texture. Eventually, she poured some product on the palms of her hands and started massaging it into the girl's scalp.

"Oh, sweet Merlin, that feels good!"

Bellatrix shivered and decided to not linger much longer than needed. "Did nobody ever do this for you, Missy?" she asked to divert herself.

"No."

"Then what hairdresser did you go to?"

"Hmm? I cut it myself."

"Why?"

"Easier. Less painful. Even hairdressers don't know what to do with my hair."

"They must have been underqualified then," Bellatrix stated with some force.

She gathered Hermione's hair and twisted it into an elegant bun while Hermione shrugged.

"It doesn't really matter. As wild as it is, nobody sees the difference."

Bellatrix took a moment to calm herself lest she started violently shoving the pins into Hermione's hair. Had absolutely nobody ever told the girl how beautiful she was?

"How old are you, anyway?" she asked to further distract herself.

"Twenty-three," Hermione answered. "Do I still age?"

"Yes, you silly girl!" Bellatrix laughed. "Vampires are not immortal, only very difficult to kill."

"Oh, that's good. That's a relief."

"Is it?"

"Yes. I don't want to live forever. That sounds horrible. Everybody around you dies."

"I guess that's true." She conjured a mirror. "There, all fixed," she said, handing it to Hermione.

The girl stared at her reflection, her eyes wide with awe. "How?" she whispered after a while, carefully reaching backwards.

"Experience," Bellatrix answered. "I'm twenty-eight years older than you, you know."

"You are?" Hermione glanced over her shoulder, surprised.

"No need to flatter me. Now, do you want to head over to Malfoy Manor? Or would you like a bit of rest first?"

Hermione stood, brushing down her skirt. "There's no use in postponing it, right?"

Bellatrix took the girl's hand, noticing how her voice trembled. "There's no need to worry either, Missy," she said. "Come on, we'll walk to the gates and I'll side-along Apparate you. I have it on good authority that Floo travel is uncomfortable if you're a vampire."

Hand in hand, they walked down the Lestrange driveway and up the Malfoy one. Narcissa was already waiting for them at the door.

"Well, don't you look like the perfect copy of my dear sister," she greeted Hermione, who promptly started blushing.

"I leant her some clothes, Cissy," Bellatrix said in a long-suffering tone. "Hers are in the laundry."

"My, they suit you well, Hermione. I didn't know you had a grey shirt, Bella."

"She doesn't," Hermione piped up.

Bellatrix narrowed her eyes as Narcissa threw a meaningful look her way. "You allowed her to transfigure one of your shirts? How … telling."

"Cissy!" Bellatrix snapped. "Stop your games and at least invite us in for some tea."

Narcissa merely grinned and escorted them to the parlour where tea and biscuits were already served.

"Lucius won't be joining us today," she said as she settled on the couch, patting the space beside her and urging Hermione to sit there. "He's out for business."

"At this hour?" Hermione asked. "Oh, I'm sorry, I did not mean to be rude."

"It's okay, dear," Narcissa said, patting Hermione's knee. "You must be terribly confused." She poured a cup of tea and offered it to Hermione, who gratefully accepted it.

"She's full of questions, that's for sure," Bellatrix commented, giving Hermione a wink so she wouldn't get offended or insecure again.

"Of course," Narcissa said. "Feel free to ask them, dear, I'll answer what I can."

Hermione took a sip of her tea, her eyes switching between Narcissa and Bellatrix. "I don't know where to begin," she finally said.

"Well, let me ask the first question then," Narcissa offered. "When were you sired?"

"About two weeks ago."

"You went without food for two weeks?" Bellatrix burst out, her tea sloshing in her cup.

Narcissa frowned. "What are you talking about, Bella? And please don't shout, it's so uncouth."

Bellatrix rolled her eyes before answering. "Hermione here was afraid to eat thinking it might kill her."

"You didn't eat for two weeks?" Narcissa asked Hermione, shocked. "My poor girl, you must be so starved still."

"I did give her breakfast, Cissy."

"That's hardly sufficient to repair the damage of two weeks without food, Bella," Narcissa replied, glancing at Bellatrix. The latter understood they were no longer talking about human food. "We must resolve this."

"Uhm, that's very kind of you, Madame Malfoy, but I don't think I can eat at the moment. My stomach is still a bit upset from breakfast, I'm afraid."

Narcissa glanced at Bellatrix again, who minutely shook her head to warn her sister to be careful.

"Perhaps later then," Narcissa said. "And call me Narcissa, dear. That reminds me, I don't even know your last name."

"Granger. It's Hermione Granger."

"It is indeed a name I do not recall. Do you remember anything about your sire?"

"No. I was walking home from my job at the Ministry. It had been a long day and I prefer to walk it off instead of Apparating home. I noticed someone was following me, but as I reached for my wand he was suddenly right behind me. He covered my eyes as well as my mouth – which I thought was strange at the time – and dragged me away, I don't know where. The last I remember is a sharp pain in my neck. I woke up alone in an alley."

Both sisters were frowning at her story.

"Is this not common?" Hermione asked.

"No, my dear, it is not!" Narcissa said. "In fact, abandoning the one you sire, certainly at an early stage, is punishable by death."

"What?"

Bellatrix agreed with Hermione's exclamation. It was something she hadn't known either.

"We have our own set of rules, Hermione. I will teach them all to you in due time, don't worry. Most are easy to follow and stem from common sense. Not abandoning your ward is one of the most important ones."

"Oh. So if you find the one who did this to me—"

"He will be put to death, yes."

"Lovely."

Bellatrix snorted at Hermione's dry answer, earning her a reproachful look by her sister.

"Bella says your husband, put me to sleep. How?" Hermione asked after a short silence.

"Haven't got a clue," Narcissa answered. "He just can. How would you explain magic to a Muggle?"

Hermione hummed in understanding. "She also said it's because he's a born vampire?"

"Did she now?"

"I had to tell her something, Cissy. I couldn't just leave her in the dark."

"I guess you're right," Narcissa amended. "A born vampire is literally that, born as a vampire. All others are made."

"I can still get pregnant?"

"No, dear, I'm afraid not, unless you mated with your sire. You see, the reason why born vampires can sire others is so they can select a human wife or husband. Only when the human is turned can they have children, and the made-vampire can only get pregnant or produce a child with their sire. Of course, born vampires can mate among each other freely. It wouldn't make sense otherwise."

"So you were sired by Lucius?"

"On my wedding night, yes. It was quite a surprise. We didn't know of his vampiric tendencies. The Malfoy family has been keeping it secret for centuries."

"Were you given a choice?"

"Not really, but I loved Lucius, still do, so I didn't mind either."

"Oh." Hermione sipped from her tea. "Will I only be functional at night?"

"For the time being. You're young and recovering. After some time, you'll be able to function day and night, although night will be preferred. Like humans, but reversed."

"I see. What about the sun?"

"The sun is… unpleasant. If you go out during the day, it's easier to stick to the shadows."

"It won't burn me?"

"Burn you?" Narcissa echoed, amused. "By Merlin, girl, how many Muggle horror stories have you read?"

"Muggles think you would burn up under the sun?" Bellatrix interjected.

"Yes, apparently," Narcissa answered. "David – one of Lucius's friends – amused himself by researching all the myths and stories Muggles have about us. They're quite entertaining. The 'burn when in the sun' one seems to be most persistent." She turned back to Hermione. "So, no, dear, it won't burn you, but I can't say that sunlight is a pleasant sensation. It's like permanently having a too hot towel on your skin. Some might call it a burning sensation. Perhaps that's where the myth stemmed from."

Bellatrix sat back and watched the conversation flow between her sister and Hermione. It seemed the girl had more than one misconception about vampires but she also seemed eager to be rid of them and truly understand what she had become. Bellatrix could see her sister was building up to something and smirked when it finally came.

"May I ask you a very personal question, Hermione?" Narcissa said.

"Uhm, yes, sure." Hermione obviously wasn't completely fooled by Narcissa's sweet tone.

"Are you still a virgin?"

"Excuse me?"

Bellatrix coughed to cover a laugh but again Hermione wasn't fooled.

"This is not funny, Bella!"

"I'm sorry I have to ask this, dear, but it does make a difference," Narcissa interjected.

Hermione crossed her arms. "How?"

"Did you not notice how our dear Bella reacted when you bit her?"

"She did not," Bellatrix said.

"She claims she liked it," Hermione said through clenched teeth.

"I think my sister more than liked it, didn't you Bella?" Bellatrix merely smirked. "Humans like it, Hermione, because the feeling comes close to having sex. Both often go hand in hand, if you know what I mean." Narcissa winked at a shocked looking Hermione. "You would have known had your sire done the proper thing instead of knocking you out." The last was said with lingering anger in her voice.

"That doesn't change the fact that I'll be taking from them something they vitally need to stay alive."

"So you can stay alive yourself, Hermione. As long as the blood is freely offered and you don't drain them, you're not committing an offense."

"According to who?"

"The same wizarding council that regulates the vampire rules."

"And does the wizarding world agree?" Hermione asked vehemently.

"The fact that it's a pleasurable act isn't common knowledge, Missy," Bellatrix offered. "Imagine what would happen. How many would like to become a vampire? How many would camp outside vampire's houses in hopes of getting a fix? The situation would quickly become impossible."

"It's a secret that must be kept, Hermione," Narcissa added.

"Then what happens to those you drink from?"

"There's a little village on the Malfoy estate," Narcissa answered.

"YOU BREED HUMANS?" Hermione cried out, jumping from the couch and backing away.

"How barbaric!" Narcissa immediately responded, a look of pure revulsion on her face. "Sweet Merlin, no! How could you possibly think that?" Hermione didn't answer and Narcissa sighed. "We take care of those that feed us, Hermione, that's all. They offer us their blood and in exchange, they live in the village and we provide them with a salary equivalent to that of a part-time job. Every one of them is bound by oath to keep the secret.

"It's a normally functioning village. We don't drink from those under the age of twenty-one, nor from pregnant women or the elderly. They are allowed to leave whenever they wish. If they want to marry someone and bring them into the village, they meet Lucius first so they can take the oath. We are not monsters, Hermione, and neither are you."

Hermione stared hard at Narcissa, then seemed to deflate. "I'm sorry for my assumptions," she said.

"I assume it is all a bit much, I understand," Narcissa answered after a deep breath.

Bellatrix could see Hermione's conclusion had insulted her sister and was silently impressed with how level-headed she was being. Then again, Bellatrix had also realised more was yet to come.

"There's one question I didn't hear you ask, Hermione," Narcissa said.

"Which one?" Hermione asked, her voice subdued after her outburst.

"How often you need blood." Hermione clenched her teeth but didn't respond. Narcissa put her hand on the girl's knee. "Hermione, dear, you need to feed at least once a week, preferably twice. And right now, after being so starved, you need more blood than what Bella could offer you yesterday."

Hermione bared her teeth, obviously not pleased. "You said once a week."

"Listen to me," Narcissa insisted, grabbing the girl's chin so she would look at her. "You need the blood. You can't possibly be feeling well or anywhere near rested. I bet your throat feels parched. How often have you thought about ripping dear Bella's throat out? You'll lose your control at one point."

Hermione glared.

"Don't look at me like that."

"Excuse me," Bellatrix demanded.. "You what?"

"I would never!" Hermione said between clenched teeth, impaired by Narcissa's brutal grip.

"You would," Narcissa insisted. "Not today, no, but perhaps tomorrow, or the day after. You would." She loosened her grip and brushed Hermione's cheek. "At least admit you're craving it, dear. I know you want it." Tears started forming in Hermione's eyes. "Don't cry about it," Narcissa soothed. "Remember, they like it. They want it."

Narcissa snapped her fingers and the door to the hallway opened. Bellatrix had to resist the urge to whistle as a young, well-defined man wearing only loose shorts walked in.

"Lady Malfoy, young Mistress Hermione, Madame Black," he greeted.

Narcissa whispered something in Hermione's ear. Bellatrix could feel her skin tingling and if the boy's twitch was any to go by, so could he. Her sister's Charm wasn't aimed at them though, but probably at trying to relax Hermione.

"Andrea," Narcissa finally said, holding out her hand towards the man. "You remember what I explained to you?"

"Yes, my Lady," he said, lightly putting his hand in hers.

"Stop drooling, Bella!" Narcissa admonished.

Hermione's head snapped towards Bellatrix.

"Well, can you blame me?" Bellatrix retorted, happy to see this caused Hermione to hide a snigger. The man merely smirked in response.

"Now, settle on the floor, Andrea."

As he sunk down on the floor, Narcissa's fingers deliberately trailed the man's arm, shoulder, and neck. He shivered in anticipation.

"Come, Hermione," Narcissa coaxed, "come sit behind him." It was obvious Hermione was reluctant, but she agreed. "Touch him, Hermione, feel him."

"Wha-what?"

Narcissa – who was elegantly crouching next to Andrea – ran her hand over his chest. "Touch him, Hermione. Feel his heartbeat. He wants it."

As if on cue, Andrea groaned. The sound had a profound effect on Hermione; desire started clouding her eyes as she licked her lips.

"That's it, girl," Narcissa said. Bellatrix shivered, fighting the alluring qualities of her sister's voice. "Wrap your arms around him, press yourself against his back. Doesn't he smell good?"

Hermione dragged her nose along Andrea's neck, her nails extending into claws and her fangs showing. "Hmm, yes," she breathed.

Bellatrix couldn't help the gasp that escaped her at Hermione's sultry voice and Narcissa smirked at her. Andrea already looked ecstatic, his eyes closed and his body tense. Bellatrix understood why Narcissa had chosen him. He seemed to like the anticipation just as much as the bite itself.

"Listen to his heartbeat, Hermione," Narcissa continued coaxing. "Feel it. If it nears twice as fast as this, you need to stop, alright dear?"

Hermione's hands were roaming the man's chest, her front flush against his back, her cheek resting against his shoulder. She started tapping with one hand; Bellatrix presumed it was Andrea's heartbeat.

"That's it, Hermione, good girl." Narcissa licked her own lips, obviously enjoying what was going on. "Now drink, my dear, drink."

Hermione raised herself up a bit and sunk her fangs in Andrea's neck. He moaned in response, shivering. His loose pants were clearly tented. Narcissa was running her hand up and down his thigh.

"Look down, Hermione," she said in a husky voice. "See what you're doing to him."

She obeyed and lust flashed through her eyes as she noticed his tented trousers. Her hands clenched and her claws scratched Andrea's pecs. He let out an ecstatic 'oh' at the sensation. Bellatrix shook her head, knowing full well she behaved exactly the same when one of Lucius's friends was having his merry way with her.

"Take him, Hermione," Narcissa whispered in the girl's ear. "Help him to completion."

Hermione pulled back. "I can't do that!" she exclaimed. "He's practically drugged. I can't take advantage of him!"

"Please." The moan came from Andrea. He gently took Hermione's right hand and pulled it down until it rested just above his short's elastic. "Please, Mistress Hermione."

She stared at him, completely baffled, absentmindedly lapping at the blood that was seeping from his wound. Narcissa smiled slowly, almost predatorily.

"Really?" Hermione eventually asked.

"Yes. Yes!"

He moaned, his hands clenching on his thighs. Bellatrix started to wonder why he didn't help himself, but one look at her sister told her exactly why.

"Drink, Hermione." Narcissa resumed her coaxing. "Don't let his precious blood go to waste. And give him what he wants, dear, what he needs."

Andrea moaned again. It spurred Hermione back into action. She latched onto his neck, causing Andrea's crotch to twitch wildly. After a short hesitation, her hand slipped under the short's elastic. She freed the man's member from its confines and teasingly skimmed her fingers along the length.

"Please ," Andrea begged. "Don't tease me."

Hermione pulled herself more flush against the man's back, her hand firmly enveloping him. She started pumping him and he groaned, his head falling back against Hermione's shoulder, his hips bucking slightly in tune with her movements. His hands were still clenched on his thighs. Bellatrix had her own hands clenched, trying not to show how aroused she was. Narcissa watched the pair, triumph on her face.

"Watch the heartbeat, Hermione," Narcissa whispered.

Hermione moaned in protest but followed the instruction. She sped up the pumping of her hand while slowing down her sucking. Andrea came with a long, drawn-out groan just as Hermione was knitting the wound back together.

Both sagged. Hermione released him but kept her arms around his frame, her head resting against his back. Both were breathing heavily. Narcissa daintily flicked her wand to clean up the mess, then glanced up at Bellatrix.

"I'm sure I can find a man willing to help you out, Bella," she smirked.

Bellatrix glared at her.

"Are you okay?" they both heard Hermione ask.

"Sated, young Mistress, very sated," Andrea responded.

"You sure?" she insisted. "You lost a lot of blood."

Both Bellatrix and Narcissa watched as Andrea turned within the circle of Hermione's arms to cup her cheek. "Nothing a blood replenishing potion and some rest can't fix," he said. "So yes, I'm sure." He kissed her cheek. "Thank you for taking care of me, young Mistress Hermione."

He tucked himself back into his pants while Hermione stared at him, astonished. "I believe I must be going now," he said, glancing at Narcissa who had extended her hand to help him up.

"Thank you, Andrea," she said, giving the younger man a short kiss on the lips.

"Anytime, Lady Malfoy."

He smiled and, after a short bow towards Bellatrix, left the room. Hermione was still sitting in the same spot, blinking owlishly.

Narcissa nudged her sister. "Go kiss her."

"Cissy!"

"You know you want to, Bella. I want to see how she'll react."

"Everything is a game to you, isn't it?"

"Don't be so harsh, Bella. You want it badly, you can't hide from me."

"Damned vampire senses," Bellatrix muttered under her breath. "We don't even know if she fancies women," she complained out loud.

"She's a vampire, Bella," Narcissa said with a sigh. "If she didn't before, then she does now."

"We shouldn't—"

"If you won't, I will," Narcissa interrupted her.

"Fine!" Bellatrix caved. "Fine, you meddlesome harpy."

"Don't be mean, sister."

But Bellatrix was already ignoring her, moving to sit in front of Hermione, facing her.

"Missy?" she said, touching the girl's cheek much as Andrea had before.

"Bella?" Hermione seemed to come out of a trance. "He really liked it."

"Isn't that what I keep telling you, pet?"

"Pet?"

Bellatrix moved closer. "Didn't you enjoy yourself as well?" she murmured, drawing her thumb over Hermione's red lips. She noticed the moment Hermione realised what was going on, and she didn't seem averse to it. "Keep the fangs to yourself, Missy," Bellatrix whispered before pressing her lips on Hermione's.

Much to her surprise, the girl responded eagerly. Bellatrix shoved a knee between Hermione's legs, allowing the girl to grind herself on her thigh. In the background, Narcissa let out a delighted peal of laughter.

Hermione seemed to remember herself and pulled back, blushing. Bellatrix didn't let her go far.

"Shall we go home?" she whispered in Hermione's ear. "I'll make you forget your name, Missy. Make you scream mine."

The hand on her hip clenched as Hermione gasped out and turned an even deeper shade of red..

"What are you two whispering about over there?" Narcissa teased. "Shall I leave the room and have it sealed until you two come out?"

"I do believe we are going home," Bellatrix answered, standing and pulling Hermione up with her.

"Are you now?"

"Stop your teasing, Cissy."

Narcissa grinned. "Very well. Hermione, dear, no biting our Bella until tomorrow night, okay? She needs to recover."

Hermione nodded in assent. She opened her mouth to say something but Bellatrix cut in. "Enjoy the rest of your night, Cissy," she said. "Do send us a message when you'd like us to come over again."

"Of course," Narcissa replied, ushering them to the front door. "Do enjoy yourselves!" she called after them as they made their way to the gates.