Chapter 16:
The library was quiet, a perfect haven for Hermione as she settled into her usual study spot. Blaise Zabini had joined her, his presence a welcome distraction from the constant barrage of suitors and Draco's possessive intrusions. They worked in companionable silence, the only sounds being the rustle of pages and the scratch of quills.
As the afternoon wore on, Blaise cleared his throat, breaking the silence. "Hermione, I've been thinking… the homecoming dance is coming up, and I'd really like to take you."
Hermione looked up, surprised. Blaise was charming and intelligent, and his request was a breath of fresh air compared to the aggressive advances she'd faced all week. Before she could respond, Draco's voice slithered into her mind, dark and possessive.
You can't go with him, Hermione. You're mine.
Hermione clenched her jaw, trying to ignore him. "Blaise, that's very kind of you. But why me?"
Blaise smiled, leaning in slightly. "Because you're not like the other girls. You're smart, strong, and… I think we could have a lot of fun together. How about we go on a real date first, a few days before the dance? Get to know each other better?"
Hermione's heart warmed at his sincerity. She glanced out the window, seeing Draco on his broom during Quidditch practice, his eyes boring into her from a distance. She knew he was watching, his possessiveness radiating even from afar.
Say no, Hermione. You know you belong to me.
Ignoring Draco, she turned back to Blaise, offering him a genuine smile. "I'd like that, Blaise. A real date sounds nice."
Draco's anger was palpable, a dark presence in her mind. You're making a mistake, Hermione. You'll regret this.
Shutting Draco out as best as she could, Hermione focused on Blaise, feeling a flicker of excitement at the prospect of a normal date.
A few days later, Blaise and Hermione walked through the streets of Hogsmeade, the evening air crisp and filled with the sounds of laughter and chatter. Blaise had chosen a cozy little restaurant tucked away from the main road, its warm lighting and intimate atmosphere perfect for getting to know each other.
They settled into a booth near the back, and Hermione found herself relaxing in Blaise's easygoing company. They talked about everything from schoolwork to future plans, and she was pleasantly surprised by how much she enjoyed his company.
As they shared a meal, Draco's presence loomed in the back of her mind, a constant reminder of his possessive hold on her. She tried to push him away, focusing on Blaise's charming smile and interesting conversation.
Just as Hermione was beginning to feel truly comfortable, the door to the restaurant swung open, and Draco strolled in, his eyes immediately locking onto her. He made his way over to their table, a predatory gleam in his eyes.
"Zabini, Granger," he greeted them, his voice dripping with mockery. "What a surprise to see you here."
Blaise tensed, his easygoing demeanor shifting to one of cautious defensiveness. "Malfoy, we're on a date. Can you not ruin this for once?"
Draco smirked, sliding into the booth next to Hermione. "Oh, I wouldn't dream of it. Just wanted to make sure you two are having a good time."
Hermione glared at him, her heart pounding. "Draco, what are you doing here?"
Draco leaned in close, his breath hot against her ear. "Just making sure you remember who you belong to, princess."
Blaise's eyes darkened with anger. "Malfoy, leave us alone. Hermione agreed to go out with me, and you need to respect that."
Draco's smirk widened, his hand slipping under the table to rest on Hermione's thigh. She gasped, her body reacting to his touch despite her anger. "You think you can just swoop in and take what's mine, Zabini? You're delusional."
Blaise clenched his fists, but before he could respond, he noticed Hermione's discomfort. "I'll be right back," he said, his voice tight with frustration. "I need to use the bathroom."
As soon as Blaise was out of sight, Draco's hand moved higher, his fingers brushing against Hermione's core through her skirt. She bit her lip, trying to stifle a moan.
"You can't escape me, Hermione," Draco whispered, his fingers pressing harder. "You're mine, and I'm going to prove it."
Hermione's breath came in ragged gasps, her body trembling with need. "Draco, stop," she whispered, her voice a mixture of anger and desperation.
Draco's fingers moved in slow, deliberate circles, driving her closer to the edge. "I'll stop when you admit it, Hermione. Admit that you belong to me."
She shook her head, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. "No, Draco. I won't give in."
His fingers pressed harder, his voice a dark, possessive whisper. "Say it, Hermione. Say you're mine, and I'll let you come."
Hermione's body was on fire, her mind screaming at her to give in, but she fought against the urge. "No," she gasped, her eyes squeezed shut.
Draco's eyes darkened with a mix of anger and desire. "Stubborn as always," he murmured, his fingers slowing their movements. "You'll break eventually, Hermione. And when you do, I'll be the only one who can make you feel this way."
Just as she was about to break, Blaise returned, his expression one of confusion and concern. Draco withdrew his hand, leaning back with a smug smile. "Enjoy the rest of your date, Zabini."
Blaise glared at him, sliding back into the booth across from Hermione. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine concern.
Hermione nodded, though her body was still trembling from the intensity of Draco's touch. "I'm fine, Blaise. Let's just… enjoy the rest of the evening."
Draco stood up, his eyes never leaving Hermione's. "Remember what I said, princess. You're mine."
As he walked away, Hermione felt a mix of relief and frustration. She knew she was playing a dangerous game, but she couldn't help the way her body responded to Draco's possessiveness.
Blaise reached across the table, taking her hand in his. "If you ever need to talk about it, I'm here for you, Hermione. You don't have to face him alone."
She offered him a small smile, grateful for his kindness. "Thank you, Blaise. That means a lot."