Convenient Meeting
Summary: Hermione ends up in Shreveport. Why? What will happen when she meets the vampire sheriff?
Notes: Hey my lovely readers! I'm sorry it took so long to update A Magical Renewal but…have you ever had such a weird dream about the characters you're wanting to write about and it totally messes with your frame of mind?! Well, that's what has happened to me! I kid you not! I can't remember the dream but every time I wanted to write the next chapter for AMR (which is H-EN-G) I couldn't! I kept seeing the remnants of the dream! I'm just now getting it to go away but it's taken months to do so! UGH! Anyway, here's a little story I hope you enjoy! Thanks for checking it out! :)
Disclaimer: I own nothing and make not a cent.
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Chapter 1
Hermione blew an errant strand of hair out of her face, gods she was so bored. Her eyes scanned the little convenience store she currently worked at and knew there was nothing else to be done. She had straightened and dusted everything on the shelves, restocked everything she could and wiped down all the counters available. She had taken the job for something to do and, normally, it wasn't bad. Usually there was a steady stream of customers but tonight was a slow night and she really hated slow nights when they happened, they dragged on forever! She leaned on the counter and sighed. There hadn't been a customer in over an hour and she still had an hour to go before she could start the closing procedures. Bollocks!
Thinking back to what brought her to her current situation, Hermione sighed again. Fucking Parkinson! The pug-nosed bitch had sent a curse just before she was taken down by Draco Malfoy. She hadn't seen it coming but when it hit her, she was never more thankful that the Final Battle had been over, which was why she had let her guard down the tiniest bit, enough for the bitch to get one more spell off. It had hit her square in the back and Hermione had fallen face first to the ground in agony. When Draco, who knew she would ever willingly call him by his first name, had slid to her side on his knees to check on her, she had never seen his eyes filled with so much worry. He had peppered her with questions as he ran diagnostic spells over her prone form.
Trying to answer the best she could through the pain, Draco had cradled her in his arms and apparated straight to Madam Pomfrey. She couldn't remember much but she had heard a few words. Words like, "…binding…" and "…dark magic…" and "…unknown…"; they were enough for her to guess that whatever Parkinson had thrown at her wasn't going to be an easy fix. Once the curse had settled, Hermione had finally been able to breathe without pain but her magic had been repressed terribly. Surprisingly, Draco and Harry along with the medi-witch had viewed Draco's memories of the curse only to learn that it wasn't anything any of them had heard of before. Hermione had gone into full research mode after being released with stern instructions to not overdo it or Poppy threatened to stick her to a bed and Hermione knew she would do it too. She had scoured the library while everyone else was tending to the injured and fallen. The Aurors, slightly reduced in numbers, had enough to do an amazing job of rounding up the remaining Death Eaters, at least those who were still on the grounds, and sending them to magic-dampening holding cells.
Hermione scowled slightly remembering how she had desperately looked through the books the library had to offer to try to find a way to reverse the curse. She wasn't able to really help in any way with the cleanup, rebuilding or capturing since she could barely do a first year spell and which ones varied greatly. She had cursed a blue streak when nothing came to fruition. Draco had told her that he would check out the Parkinson's library when he got a chance but it would be a bit due to so much needing immediate attention. She had understood. Hogwarts grounds and the castle and all those there; living or dead, were first priority. She could handle doing most things as a muggle until then.
Unfortunately, no one knew a counter curse for what had struck her. The only person who might was in a magical coma at St. Mungo's, Severus Snape. Her heart had sunk knowing she would be barred from most of her magic until everything settled down or a certain Potions Master woke up. Hermione knew that those close to her: Harry, Ron, Draco, Minerva and quite a few others were checking their contacts to see if anyone knew how to rid her of Parkinson's curse. Of course, things didn't settle as much as they would have liked. Oh, the school and community as a whole was repaired and springing with life once again but there was still an edge of fear that followed everyone due to there being DeathEaters still on the loose. After getting into several battles in various places, Hermione knew she would need to move elsewhere until they were all caught. Harry was their main target but he was harder to ambush than most and she was the easier target, especially now.
Ron and he had taken Kingsley up on his offer of honorary N.E.W.T.s and gone straight into high level Auror training after passing several basic tests to see where they needed to be. Hermione had gone back to Hogwarts to finish her education. She hadn't studied like a maniac and busted her arse surviving to just walk away with honorary anything! She wanted to finish and have a normal year of school before deciding what to do with her life. She had quite a few offers already but she wasn't sure which one, if any, she would take. She needed time to unwind and deal with the trauma of her life first. Everyone had been quite supportive of her decision. They all told her to take her time and they would be waiting for her whenever she decided. It was flattering and greatly appreciated. All who knew her affliction kept it to themselves and fortunately her professors knew to test her at different times to see if she could cast the spells needed to pass her N.E.W.T.s and she was grateful to them for it. She was also grateful that Kingsley himself had told the Department of Education that he would oversee her testing himself, so when she performed a particular spell, the professors would give the memory to the Minister so he could check it off of the practicals making it possible for Hermione to receive top marks across the board.
It was after graduating that Hermione started having problems with the followers-sympathizers of the fallen Dark Lord still roaming free. She had thought she could handle it but after being kidnapped and tortured, again, Hermione finally decided a change of scenery was needed. She had been held for four days before Harry, Ron and Draco had found her and sent the three DeathEaters to their graves. She had never seen the three of them so angered before. It had warmed her heart but felt otherworldly at the same time. Who would have thought that the three of them would work together for any reason! But she had to admit that they had worked very well together, like a well-oiled machine when they had taken her captors down. She had even hugged Draco, which he returned much to her surprise, after hugging her two best friends. It had actually been Draco's idea that she leave the country until all the rogue DeathEaters had been dealt with. She was an easier target, he had said and that she would be a magnet for the remaining Dark Lord followers and sympathizers to use as bait. Everyone had agreed. Hermione knew she was normally a powerful witch but when the numbers weren't in her favor and her magic was being repressed, yeah, she was a "weak link". Not to mention, she hadn't fought for the last seven years to keep Harry alive only to have him get killed due to her pride.
So, she had wrapped up what she needed and had left. The Minster for Magic, Kingsley Shacklebolt, had even made her portkey himself so there would be no record of where she had gone to; her destination…the USA. She had had Harry copy some cities he randomly spotted down on pieces of paper and then Hermione had drawn one of them out. She had told Harry to hang onto the others, just in case. He had agreed. That was why she found herself in Shreveport, Louisiana. She had kept in touch with the boys through Draco's owl, since it would be less conspicuous, and had learned that it was getting close to time that she would be able to go home but not yet, there were still sympathizers and followers to round up but it shouldn't be much longer. Although Hermione wasn't sure she would return once it was all clear to do so. America, Louisiana especially, had grown on her. Yes, it had taken a bit when she first arrived to adjust but now that she had, she wasn't sure she wanted to leave, and it wasn't like she wouldn't be able to travel once she could. Now if only she could find a way to remove the curse put on her then the world would be right once again.
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Eric sat in his office at Fangtasia and pondered his evening. He was not thrilled at what he knew would be another droll and tedious night. He really needed a new pastime. The bar was a great financial success and it was a nicely established place for anyone who needed a meeting with him but…Eric was tired of everything else. The first few years had been entertaining but the last two years had been less than pleasing. Dealing with Sookie Stackhouse and her bullshit drama had taken its toll and Eric wanted nothing more than to wash his hands of her. He was coming to the conclusion that she was more trouble than she was worth.
On a brighter note, he was happy he had managed to convince Godric to not meet the sun. After they had returned to Eric's room, Godric had finally told him that he was worried about him. That he could feel Eric's turmoil through the muted bond and couldn't in good conscience leave before they worked through it. Eric had explained to Godric about Sookie and his experiences with her so far. He had also admitted to being intrigued by her scent and willingness to stand toe-to-toe with him. Then he went on about how she was Compton's human and how there was something going on there. He had told Godric that he had, at one point, thought to demand Bill give Sookie to him when he had first met the spunky blond but was now so glad he hadn't. She really had no common sense and that was landing her in so much trouble already. Of course, he suspected that Compton was purposely keeping her in the dark about much of their world but unless she sought him out, there was nothing he could do. After speaking with his Maker about Sookie, Eric knew he had made the right decision in not making such a demand and Godric had quickly agreed with him.
Much to Eric's delight, Godric had followed him to Shreveport to stay until he decided to do something else. Both Maker and Child were enjoying reconnecting. It had been so long, much too long. Eric knew Godric struggled every night but, so far, had yet to seek his own demise. Eric only hoped that something would catch Godric's eye and give the ancient vampire something worth living for. After their talk on the roof and then in his hotel room, Eric understood why his Maker had thought to end his existence but would be grateful for each night he got to spend with the being that created him. Eric didn't want to get his hopes up but it had seemed, lately, that Godric's spirits were rising. He could only hope.
Deciding he wasn't really in the mood to deal with the bar and its sycophants, Eric left his office and hopped in his 'Vette to cruise the city a bit. He really had no destination in mind, just wanting to get away from there. He found himself on the outskirts of the city in a little suburb. It was quiet and peaceful, just what he was looking for. After driving around for some time, through several outlying areas, Eric decided to stop at a convenience store to stretch his legs. What he saw had him stopping in his tracks. On the other side of the glass was a breathtaking beauty dancing around, seemingly oblivious to anything else. She looked so carefree and happy that he could only watch her in wonder. It had been so long since he had seen someone, anyone, dance with such abandon. Making sure to keep his distance, Eric watched the young beauty with undisguised interest, totally enraptured by the picture she presented.
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Seeing there was no one around, Hermione smirked and turned up the mp3 player she had brought. She chose to lose herself to the music, a funky little tune from the fifties. She loved how it made a fun reference to potions and allowed herself to dance around the store. It felt good to feel so free despite her situation. She then danced her way around the store a second time, working her body to the beat of 'Boom' by Tiësto & Sevenn. However, unknown to Hermione, there was someone watching her. Eric Northman found himself entranced with the wild-maned woman on the other side of the glass. She moved her body quite fluidly and, considering he had professional dancers at his club, knew she put them to shame. She had a natural grace that few knew. Eric smiled softly at the scene before him. He knew that if anyone were to walk in, this beautiful creature would retreat back into her shell. However, he was most curious if she would blush or not. There was something about her that called to him. She was young, beautiful, graceful with an air of innocence about her. Yet, as he continued to watch her, he realized that part of her grace was honed from battle. Her lithe form had an edge, an edge that only came from fierce fighting. Her eyes also showed him the strength and wariness within. She may appear to not be concerned with her surroundings but he knew she would be ready for anything that came her way. It intrigued him very much.
Well, as much as he enjoyed watching this wondrous creature, he was ready to make his entrance. Just as he had predicted, the young woman was behind the counter before he even stepped through the door looking to all the world as if she had been there all along. He let a small smirk cross his lips before becoming stoic once more. He didn't really need anything but decided to browse the Tru Blood the store offered, knowing already he wouldn't touch the stuff let alone buy any of it but it gave him an excuse. He had employed this tactic many times to check on a situation or follow someone.
"Is there something I can help you find?" a lovely British accented voice asked him from behind.
"I am afraid not." Eric answered as he turned. Up close, she was even more intoxicating to him. As he took a subtle inhalation, Eric had to fight to keep his fangs up, she smelled divine; clean and pure, not untouched but pure of spirit and soul, it was a shock but oh so refreshing. He took a moment to get his bearings back. Normally, Eric would make some lewd comment or sexual innuendo but it didn't seem right with her. She had an air that commanded respect that he couldn't ignore so he stayed silent while he considered what to say.
Giving her a genuine smile, Eric asked, "Your accent is a surprise. What part of England do you hail from?"
Hermione tilted her head before smiling, "I grew up in Hampstead. Are you familiar with the area?"
"I know of it, yes, though I have not been there in some years now." Eric answered.
"Ah, well, I'm sure not much has changed." Hermione commented, not wanting the stranger to leave just yet.
He was tall; she only came to the middle of his chest. She knew he was vampire but the air about him made her want to know him better. He had a commanding presence that she found comforting, like nothing would happen without his express permission. She also enjoyed the cool confidence he had. As if he knew very few would dare to be disrespectful towards him, which was probably true.
Of course, his lean physique and piercing blue eyes made him exquisite to look upon. She had no doubt that many females and plenty of males had this gorgeous specimen starring in their nightly dreams. She knew he would most likely appear in hers. For the first time during her shift, Hermione was glad that the store was slow. This way, she could spend a bit of time chatting the handsome stranger up and was pleased when he continued their conversation while leaning against a short wall.
"How long have you been here?" Eric inquired.
"In the US or in Louisiana?" Hermione wanted clarified as she smiled.
"Either, both." Eric answered.
Hermione chuckled, "Both would be the same answer, just over a year now."
"I see, and what brought you to this little corner of the world?" Eric smiled back.
"You wouldn't believe me if I told you." Hermione countered, curious how he would react.
Eric cocked a brow at her and smirked, "Try me. You might be surprised."
Hermione tilted her head before responding, "I had my best friend jot down a few city names and pulled one out."
Eric held her eyes as he considered her answer. "Well, that is certainly different and not what I was expecting."
"I'm sure." Hermione laughed out. Eric studied her for a moment and realized he really wanted to hear her laugh again. It was beautiful, full of emotion and freely given. Fortunately, whatever had happened to give her the sharp edge and wariness of a warrior had not taken away her ability to enjoy life. Chuckling himself at her simple response, he asked, "Is this temporary or long term?"
"Not sure yet, why?" Hermione answered lightly however Eric didn't miss the wariness coming forth in her eyes and her body language had lost some of its looseness. Not caring for the change in the atmosphere, Eric also didn't know what he had said that had somehow, for some reason, brought the warrior to the front but he wanted the carefree woman back, so he shrugged a shoulder before answering.
"I would like to get to know you better, if you would allow."
Hermione's surprised look was priceless to Eric and he found himself smiling at her response.
"Um, yeah, yeah that would be allowed." Hermione couldn't believe what she had just heard. This magnificent creature wanted to get to know her better! Oh dear Merlin! She would be more than happy to get to know him better, in any way she could. Stopping herself from fanning her face with her hands, only just, Hermione smiled up to him.
"You know, we could start by telling me your name." She cheekily said.
"Yes, that would indeed be an excellent start. Apologies for my lack of manners, I am Eric Northman." Eric laughed softly with her, wondering if his name would ring a bell for her.
"Hermione Granger, pleasure to meet you Eric Northman." Hermione continued to smile at him as she held her hand out for him to shake, not knowing if he would or not.
"The pleasure is all mine." Eric responded as he took her much smaller hand into his and shook it but not letting go immediately.
Hermione, feeling bold, stepped closer to Eric, tilted her head back and smirked at the blond before softly saying, "Not all yours, Eric." Then she allowed her eyes to peruse his form and sighed as she stepped back.
Eric couldn't stop the smirk forming if his existence had depended on it. He allowed the petite woman to step back before he pulled her flush against his body and ducked his head down to whisper in her ear, "Oh, it will be lover, it will be."
Hermione's whole body shivered at his whispered promise. Was she brave enough to allow him to follow through or did she give in to her nerves? Her mind had a hard time concentrating on anything other than this vampire's presence and nearness to her to really think about anything. So, to give herself a moment to gather her composure, Hermione stepped back again with a genuine laugh, "Is that so?"
Eric's eyes followed her for a few steps before he leaned back against the wall. "Undoubtedly." He said as he continued to follow her. Hermione let out a deep chuckle before she turned around to watch where she was going, possibly swaying her hips just a bit more. Hearing a low growl behind her, Hermione smirked as she noticed the time. Thank Merlin it was now time to start closing up the store. After making sure everything was as it should be, she grabbed her clipboard and stepped outside.
Eric watched her quietly as she made her rounds for closing the store for the night. He enjoyed the extra sway of her hips, the small smirk on her perfect lips and light of mischief in her expressive eyes. As he watched her grab a clipboard and walk out the door, he was right beside her before said door could close.
"What are you doing?" he asked conversationally.
"I have to record the pump numbers." Hermione replied.
"You do this every night? Alone?" Eric asked, concerned for her welfare.
"Yeah, I do and I have yet to have any problems. It's well lit and it only takes me a moment to do." Hermione replied as she started recording the pumps readings.
"Does the register not record and deduct as each purchase is made?" Eric inquired.
"It does, but sometimes the system glitches and the readings are off. So, whoever works the closing shift comes out here to get a manual reading as well." Hermione explained, touched by his concern. She wondered what his reaction would be if she still had to take the day's earnings to her boss' house. Fortunately, she no longer had to do that; after she had voiced her concerns, her boss had had a safe installed that required two sets of keys to open it. Reading the pumps hadn't really bothered her but handling the money had and she was glad he had spent the monies for the safe after her second month of working. However, she wouldn't lie and say that Eric's presence wasn't comforting while she was out there. She had never had a problem but it could be creepy, especially when the weather decided to kick up.
After she was done, they started towards the store when Hermione stopped at the door and told Eric he would need to wait outside. He nodded his head and leaned against the glass as she finished closing out and locking up. When she stepped out and re-locked the doors, Eric wrapped an arm around her waist and led her to his car.
"This is yours?" Hermione asked, it was beautiful.
"Yes. Would you like a ride?" Eric asked, not seeing a mode of transportation for her.
Hermione smirked and lifted a brow at his question. Deciding to be bold, she asked, "You or the car?"
"Either or both, lady's choice." Eric purred with a smirk of his own.
"Hmm, such decisions to make." Hermione whispered as she leaned close to his body. Before she knew what was going on, Eric had flipped their positions and she was now pressed against his vehicle. When he leaned down as he slid his knee between her legs, Hermione allowed her hands to slide up his chest to his neck and pull him the rest of the way down. The kiss was mind numbing and she loved it. No one had been able to stop her overactive mind so completely as Eric was doing.
When he lifted her up and she wrapped her legs around his hips, it was all Hermione could do to hang on. Once she had to break for air, she couldn't help but moan at the feel of his desire for her. The next thing she knew, her ass was hitting the leather of the passenger seat and Eric was starting the car up.
"So, your address is?" Eric asked as he backed out and Hermione laughed as she told him, fully enjoying the moment. Who knew what her future held but, at the moment, she was going to thoroughly immerse herself in the present.
AN: Well, that's it for this one. Hope you enjoyed it! :) Oh and congrats to any who caught the reference to 'Love Potion #9'! :) I just love that song!