Author's note:

Hi everyone! I'm so sorry for not uploading anything for a few days – I was on vacation and there was no wifi at all. Ugh. But I'm here and here is the next chapter! Granted, it may be short, but I'll make up for it in the next chapter. I promise.

Also, I just have to thank you all who have reviewed this so far. You're all so sweet and I'm so happy you like it! So, on that note, who cares what I'm saying here and let's get to the chapter, right?

Chapter Three

Hermione sat on the floor of Bellatrix's chambers, scowling, as Bellatrix hooked a leather leash to the black collar buckled tightly around her neck. She listened to Bellatrix's breathing and tried to make out the whispers as she spoke to herself, walking around the room to be sure everything was in place for their departure.

"I thought you were married," Hermione said, finally sick of feeling like a naughty animal. She missed using her voice for something other than crying or shouting.

"He's probably passed out in some pub in London," Bellatrix shrugged and tossed a tuft of unruly curls over her shoulder, running her tongue across her red, plump lips. "Now stand, pet, and wipe that puss off your face. You should be thankful I'm letting you out to see the light of day." She tugged on the leash and Hermione gagged, opting to stand and obey, instead of letting the deranged witch drag her through the manor.

"Good muddy," Bellatrix grinned and patted her rather hard on the head, then tugged on the leash yet again and led Hermione from the chambers and to the hall, testing her compliance.

"Where are we going?"

"Did I say you could talk?" Bellatrix turned, stopping nearly an inch away from Hermione's face. "Don't make me gag you, muddy mouse. This isn't nearly as important as other outings, which is why you're coming along. Besides, if I need a shield, you're it. But you will not speak, nor will you make eye contact with anyone. Understand?"

Hermione nodded, lowering her eyes to prove she was capable of handling the orders.

"Good girl." She pinched the young witch's cheek and then patted the red mark. "Step close, pet. Time to go." Bellatrix wrapped her arm tightly around Hermione and spun.

CRACK.

###

From stalking the Malfoy's Hermione was familiar with Knockturn Alley. But Bellatrix was far more adept with maneuvering through the darkness and bodies lining the narrow paths. Although it was only early afternoon, the thick clouds had ushered in nighttime gloom early and without the aid of well-working lamps, she stumbled over legs of bums and drunks and sloshed in puddles, soaking the bottom of her dress. At one point, Bellatrix snorted, and whispered, "Muddy is muddy, afterall."

Finally, the two arrived at a grey, dull shack, something Hermione had never seen before. She wondered if it had been hidden by some invisibility charm—but figured she just hadn't ventured this far into the dark side of the shopping areas. She followed Bellatrix up the steps, surveying the area. Distracted by her observations, she nearly walked into the dark witch, who grabbed her around the neck and pulled her tightly against her side.

"Do you remember what I told you, mudblood?"

"Yes."

"Yes, what?" A dark brow raised, her eyes glinted in warning.

"Yes, ma'am."

"You mean 'mistress,' girl." Her voice lowered in a gruff, gravelly tone, sending shivers down Hermione's back—and a warmth to her core.

There is no way I can be turned on by this monster, she thought, pressing herself closer to the witch, hardly noticing her body betraying her. But she smells good… Parchment, cloves, books… Stop it, Hermione. Not here. Not now.

And her thoughts were interrupted by Bellatrix's low, dark chuckle. Hermione looked up at her and saw that Bellatrix had, indeed, invaded her thoughts yet again. Her cheeks flared a bright red and she turned her light brown eyes back to her feet, hiding in embarrassment and shame.

Finally, after two long minutes, the wooden door swung open and Bellatrix tugged her into the shack. Hermione felt eyes on her, but didn't dare to look up. Not until she heard the familiar, droning voice she'd heard every day since her first day at Hogwarts…

Oh, who could it possibly be? *Sarcasm* Heheh. Anyway, the next chapter should be up by tonight! I love days off from work.