Hermione

New Year's Eve - 1:00 PM

My fingers are entwined in Draco's damp hair with a leg hooked over his shoulder, and my back presses against the cool tile, a stark contrast to the steam enveloping us in the bathroom. With each broad stroke of his tongue against my clit and the curve of his fingers, my chest rises and falls rapidly, cries of pleasure escaping my lips.

Looking down, I watch him with hooded eyes, observing his unoccupied arm moving in sync with the rhythm of his fingers pushing in and out of me. I press my heel into his back, yearning for the sensation of his cock stretching me out instead of his fingers. As my eyes flutter shut, my pussy clenches around his three fingers, eliciting a low moan from Draco as he continues to suck on my clit. My cries grow louder as the pressure builds within me, and I find myself holding my breath in anticipation of release.

Panting out curses and praises, I whimper his name as he supports my weight when my leg gives out beneath me. The pleasure crashes over me and my pussy grips his fingers. His fingers stay buried in me, tracing his digits over the squishy spot deep inside. I pull his head firmly against me and grind against his face. His movements don't stop until I'm twitching against him with overstimulation. With a soft smacking sound, he releases my clit and withdraws his fingers from me, a quiet chuckle escaping him as he traces his tongue from the base of my soaked slit up to my exposed clit, shifting his weight to better support my boneless-feeling body.

The warmth of the shower, the intensity of my orgasm, and the breathlessness leave me feeling lightheaded, with bursts of white light dancing across my vision.

"I want to live between your legs," he pants, peppering kisses along the damp skin of my stomach.

"Let me," I start, attempting to stand on my own two feet, but his hand tightens its grip on my inner thigh. "Draco, I want to return the favor!" I confess, feeling the heat rise to my cheeks.

"Petal, you've got that glazed look that tells me you won't be able to manage that right now... but," he trails off, nibbling just below my belly button.

My omega nudges me forward, a whine escaping me as I give his hair a gentle tug. "But what?" I press, almost snapping. Despite my offers and attempts to surprise him, he always manages to playfully pin me down, rutting his hips against me while sucking a second heartbeat on the sensitive spot just below my bonding gland. And he is more than generous in other ways, dry fucking being my favorite. I love how ferally alpha Draco becomes.

Draco carefully shifts me to support my own weight, pulling my hips flush against his, trapping his hard cock between us. "But… how about I," his grip tightens on my hips before he turns me around, pressing my chest flush against the tile with his back against me. I can feel the throbbing of his dick snug between my ass cheeks. "Press your thighs together," he growls as he roughly adjusts my legs so my thighs are pressing together and he bends me, the cool tile a welcome sensation against my overheated face.

"Good girl," he coos and presses his dick through the tightness of my thighs, my clit is teased by the friction of him between my legs.

Draco

I feel like I have been insatiable since I found myself in her nest and between her legs. Her taste has me hooked and is stronger than anything Blaise has had me try. I meant what I said when I told her I wanted to live between her thighs. But when she tries to reciprocate, I keep her from doing it. I know I'll knot the minute her pink lips are stretched around me, the tears in her eyes as she chokes on my cum because I wouldn't be able to help myself. Then we would be stuck and I'd be ashamed because her pretty mouth doesn't deserve to be stuck on any alpha's knot.

Her attention is easily redirected, eager to be rutted up against, craving the promise of an orgasm and her alpha's cum on her.

Just like right now.

"I know your pussy is tighter than this," I growl, watching as her hands drop from bracing herself against the shower to glide down, her fingertips delicately tracing over the sensitive, leaking head.

"Please," she whines softly, pushing her hips back against me as I rut against her roughly.

"I love it when you ask so politely," I say with a hint of sarcasm, though pride creeps into my voice. "But I'm afraid I don't know what you're begging for, pet."

"Knot," she whimpers, her plea laden with desire. "Please knot, alpha," she adds, glancing over her shoulder with one amber eye.

The scent of her arousal fills the small bathroom, intoxicating me. She knows better than to say the full plea her biology screams for.

Just a couple days ago, we had to stop entirely once because she uttered the most devastatingly beautiful plea to an alpha: Knot me. Just the thought tightens my balls and makes my mouth water.

"Will you cum again, sweet omega?" I coo, snapping my hips against hers with a grunt, the sound of skin slapping echoing off the walls.

"Only for you, Draco. Please, please," she pleads, her hips grinding back against mine in a desperate motion.

My hand comes down on the glistening ass cheek in a sharp slap before I grip her hips in a bruising way, snapping my hips against hers at a brutal pace.

Hermione braces herself against the shower wall once more, eagerly meeting every one of my thrusts. I feel her thighs tensing, quivering with anticipation as she approaches another orgasm. As she reaches the peak, her sounds of pleasure bounce off the walls again. I feel her gushing slick over my cock, her needy omega essence enveloping us both.

Leaning forward, I press my chest against her back, my hips continuing to fuck against hers as I chase my own release. With a bruising grip, I feel my balls tightening and the sensitivity around my cock building until I'm on the brink of spilling over and knotting between her thighs.

She pushes back against me until we are both standing up straight. Her legs shift apart and she's pulling away from me.

"No, c'mere," I growl out, greedily grabbing at her hips.

"No," she slaps my hands away and turns to face me, pulling me in for a kiss before dropping down to her knees. Her hands come up to grips my dick as she looks up at me from under her water-soaked lashes. "Please? Just the tip, alpha, please," a whine layers itself into her omega tone making my heart stutter and my alpha wants me to give in. It's begging louder than my omega.

Fuck, my head tilts back as I reach down to thread my fingers through her wet hair. "Just the tip, omega," I rumble, my eyes squeezing shut with pleasure.

"Look at me, alpha," she purrs, kissing the tip. I raise my head to meet her gaze, locking eyes with my omega. As our eyes connect, she begins to kitten-lick my tip, her tongue teasingly pressing into the slit.

My grip tightens in her hair as she takes the swollen head into her mouth, swirling her tongue against the sensitive flesh. A wave of pleasure courses through me, tightening my stomach, and my dick twitches in her mouth, my balls aching to spill. "Fuck, pet," I growl, my hips thrusting forward as my knot begins to swell once more. Hermione sucks with renewed enthusiasm, one hand moving to my balls and the other gripping my base. Her eyes are dilated, and she moans around the small mouthful I've allowed her.

The sensation of her moan pushes me over the edge. "I'm going to–" I try to get the warning out in time but my knot has swollen in her small fist and I feel ropes of cum coating the back of her throat. I watch as my omega tries to swallow as much as she can but it's starting to drip down her chin and onto her chest. She leans back and lets a few streaks of cum land on her chest. Her hand leaves my sensitive balls and massages the cum into her tits and up her neck.

"Thank you," she breathes out, nuzzling her nose against my stomach, my swollen cock resting on her shoulder. She kisses the root of my dick before licking around the swollen bulb of my knot.

A ragged gasp escapes me, and I stroke her hair. "Fuck, ha, darling," I manage between breaths, using my grip on her hair to pull her head away from me. "You're going to make my legs jelly. Come here," I gently tug her arm before helping her stand up. I wrap my arms around her and pull us under the hot water.

We find our breath and our heartbeats settle under the soothing warmth of the shower. She's purring softly and her hand is lightly rubbing along my back.

Every moment we spend together it feels like we are both desperately trying to make up for lost time and orgasms. The warmth of happiness spreads through my chest and I hold her impossibly closer.

Hermione

2:45PM

After we finally stepped out of the shower, we enjoyed lunch on the back porch of my cottage. The porch is enchanted to stay warm, allowing us to appreciate the snow-covered garden.

"You sure you don't want to come tonight?" Draco's lips slip into a faint pout as he asks, forming a subtle downturn.

"I made plans before we even left for the winter holiday; I can't just cancel," I remind him, again. "Besides, this," I gesture between us, bringing my mug to my lips before continuing, "is still new—"

"Our acknowledgment may be new, but this," he copies my gesture, with an arched brow, "is not." There's a hunger in his silver eyes that makes me blush, feeling a bit of embarrassment at how eagerly I welcomed him into my nest and in between my legs. But he's right. We've been dancing around this all year. How we feel towards each other.

"Fair enough," I concede, "but given our recentdefinition of our relationship, I think it's wise to wait a bit longer before meeting your mother as your girlfriend and attending public events together. We should talk to our friends and families first because it might come as a shock." I shrug and cross my legs, observing his reaction closely. "Anyway, you know I've invited you to my gathering as well."

Draco's eyes narrow into a glare, and he lifts his nose slightly. "Just like you, I made plans with my mother before the holiday," he says, his tone slightly defensive as he leans back in his chair.

Standing up, I walk around the small table and settle myself in his lap. Wrapping my arms around his neck, I nuzzle his cheek affectionately. "You'll drop me off and pick me up. And we'll spend all day together tomorrow," I reassure him, planting a soft kiss on his cheek. "You'll still be my first kiss of the New Year, hm alpha?" I murmur against his cheek, trailing his kisses until I'm at his lips. "And my last one for this year," I press my lips against his and stroke the hair at the back of his head gently.

He returns the kiss and rests a hand on my thigh, squeezing it gently. "You're right."

I hum and rest my head against his shoulder.

5:45PM

Since my event was a fairly relaxed and casual gathering, I was ready fairly quickly. After I did my makeup, I dressed in a cozy, oversized black knit sweater and paired it with tights to keep warm. I tied half of my hair up with a silver bow and opted for my lace-up leather boots.

Draco, on the other hand, had to prepare for a fancy dinner and an "evening party," which demanded more attention to detail and effort from him.

"Draco! I hope you're close to being ready! I have to be at Grimmauld Place at 6:00!" I call up the stairs before returning to the kitchen. I continue putting the freshly baked cookies, save a few, into the tupperware before finding a spot for it in my bag next to the wine.

I apply a fresh coat of lipstick and tousle my curls to give it some volume. As I sling my purse across my chest, I turn to call for Draco once more, but my voice catches in my throat. His white-blonde hair is neatly styled, and he's dressed impeccably. A crisp white shirt is paired with a velvet tuxedo jacket and a large black tie. His dark slacks perfectly complement his black leather lace-up oxfords.

"You're gawking, Granger," he smirks, his eyes dragging up and down my body.

My cheeks flush as I snap my jaw shut, blinking rapidly. "Um, I am," I admit, biting down on my bottom lip. "You look reallygood, Malfoy."

"As do you," he compliments, pulling on a black cape lined in dark green. His eyes meet mine as he clasps the cape at his chest.

"Not as good as you," I shake my head and walk up to him, enjoying the way his cologne complements his alpha scent of bergamot. I wrap my arms around his neck, leaning into him on my tiptoes.

His strong arms encircle my waist, pulling me closer. "Mm, off to a stuffy dinner party. This attire is mandatory," he says, gesturing to his elegant ensemble. "Though I must say, nothing could make you more beautiful than if this were my sweater." He presses a gentle kiss on my lips. He shifts so he can skim his palms up the back of my thighs. "These better not be stockings." Draco's tone is a growl.

"Tights, alpha." I hum, "you aren't going to be there, so I'd rather wear tights." He palms his way up to my tights-covered ass. After a light pinch, he removes his hands and the sweater falls back into place.

With a playful tug on the lapels of his cape, I draw him back into a sweet kiss, exhaling contentedly. "I didn't anticipate all this," I confess with a giggle as I pull away. "And you look very handsome." I reach up to adjust his bowtie, smoothing out any creases in the expensive fabric.

A look of pride sweeps across his face, and he tenderly kisses my forehead. I lean into the kiss before glancing at the clock. It's creeping closer to six and I hate being late.

He notices my eyes wander to the clock. "I shouldn't keep you waiting. You have to be somewhere," he adds with a playful grin. "And the bloody Weasel better keep his distance," he growls softly, reaching for my hand. Our fingers intertwine, and he guides me out the door.

"He's bringing a date. Besides, with the scenting you gave me this morning… I'm pretty certain he will," I assure him, squeezing his hand reassuringly as we come to a halt at the end of my driveway. "Ready?" I ask, linking my arm with his.

"Mhm," he murmurs, his other hand covering mine. The cool metal of his rings brushes against my knuckles, and the world is spinning. Our bodies hurl through space until we suddenly find ourselves a block away from Harry's place, and I glance up at him. I gently squeeze his bicep, "let's go."

He sighs, allowing me to lead the way towards the concealed home. As the building begins to shift, revealing the magically hidden house, Draco turns me to face him. He leans down, capturing my lips in a hungry kiss. I return his kiss eagerly, my hands resting on his shoulders. Our lips are fervent and wet until I notice the sound of the houses shifting has ceased and pull away with a shy smile.

He smiles softly and leans in for a gentle kiss. "I'll see you at 1:00?" he asks.

I hug him tightly before leaning black and wiping the lipstick off his lips. "I'll be waiting. See you?" I say, reluctantly pulling away and starting down the walkway.

"See you, petal," Draco calls out.

I steal glances over my shoulder at him until I reach the front door. Pausing, I turn back for one last wave. He returns the gesture with a smile. I blow him a kiss before finally turning to knock on the door.

The door swings open after just one sharp rap. Ginny peeks out and then around me. "She'll be fine, you dolt!" she calls to Draco, pulling me inside with a playful shove before waving to him.

Draco

Regret fills me as I watch my beautiful omega get yanked into Potter's with a wave of a hand from her friend. I turn and start towards the apparition spot at the end of the block. The way Hermione looked at me earlier tonight made my head dizzy and my knees weak. And she wasn't shy to voice it. My stomach tightens and I turn to look down the street. The house that made itself appear is gone.

Her outfit, though simple, exuded an irresistible charm that made me want to tear a hole in her tights and bend her over the counter to lose myself in the warmth between her thighs. The way she clings to me, her kisses, and the way she tenderly wipes lipstick from my lips—each gesture melts me. Turning back around, I take another step and apparate to my bedroom at the manor. Being far from her has my alpha on edge but I stuff it down. She's safe and she carries my scent with her.

Glancing in the mirror, I smile at the faint lipstick stain on my lips. After wiping it off and smoothing down my hair, I head towards the foyer to meet my mother.

"You said you'd be here at 6:15 PM, Draco," she chides, her gaze scanning over my appearance.

"Mother," I sigh, glancing at the clock on the wall, "it's not even 6:16 yet."

"If you're arriving on time, you're late," she reminds me, leaning in for an air kiss on my cheek. "Welcome home. Let's be on our way." My mother walks into the floo and disappears in green flames. I follow after her and step into a lavish foyer, greeted by an elf, taking my cape.

"You reek," Blaise hisses in my ear, flicking my lobe.

"Can't believe they just let anyone in these days," I snarl, giving him a light shove.

"Draco," my mother admonishes, her eyes flashing in warning. "Behave."

I nod. "Sorry, mum," I mumble under my breath, shooting a glare at Blaise. The two of us fall in step and walk into the drawing-room together.

"Meant it. Can barely make out your scent under Granger's," he smirks, picking up two glasses of whiskey and passing me one. "Did you knot-"

"That's none of your business," I interrupt sharply, taking a sip from the glass. "But, no," I add, mumbling against the crystal before taking another sip.

"Did you not invite her tonight?" He asks, shifting his eyes around the room.

I do the same, my stomach twisting at the sight of the Greengrass sisters standing with Pansy. "I did," I reply. "But we agreed to start attending public events after we tell our friends that we are dating." I meet his wide-eyed expression. "So, Granger is my girlfriend," I declare, taking another long drink from my glass.

Blaise's initial shock quickly fades into approval as he shakes his head and claps my shoulder. "About bloody time, thank Merlin. Cheers, mate." He raises his glass in a toast before getting serious. "Tell your mum yet?"

I shake my head, exhaling heavily. "Not yet. I'm not sure how she'll take it. But I plan on telling her before we go back to school. I really don't want her to hold out hope for Astoria and me getting back together."

Blaise nods, snagging a hors d'oeuvre as it passes by. "Astoria's not going to take it well."

"I don't care. What she did to Hermione was entirely unnecessary." I asserted firmly, eyeing the approaching trio of troublesome girls.

"It wasn't," Blaise agrees, casting a glance at the girls. "Should we go the opposite direction?"

Grimacing, I shake my head. "They'll hunt me down regardless."

My gaze follows the girls until they're standing in front of us, and Blaise is shamelessly winking at Daphne. Idiot. "Yes?" I ask in a dry tone.

"Did you come with Blaise as your date?" Pansy snorts out.

"My mother, actually. Zabini and I are just catching up over a drink. Come with each other?" I keep my tone conversational.

"We all have dates," Daphne adds quickly.

Blaise snorts. "Uh-huh."

"I came with Jean-Yves Boudoir," Astoria counters, staring at me to gauge my reaction to her name-dropping her date.

"That's wonderful, Astoria," I give her a slight tilt of my head before glancing around the room. "I'm going to excuse myself to use the restroom," I pat Blaise on the shoulder and head towards the lavatory.

When I return to the drawing-room, I see Pansy and my mother engrossed in a deep conversation, with a pale-looking Blaise standing nearby. As I approach, Pansy's voice rises above the hum of the room, and I catch snippets of conversation about rumors surrounding Hermione and me from school.

My mother's eyes flash to my face, and I feel my stomach drop. "Draco," Pansy says, her smile too sweet to match her eyes. "I was just telling your mum about how you've started to court Hermione Granger at school."

Blood rushes to my face, and my mouth goes dry. "Merely school-yard rumors," I manage to say, my voice strained. "Because," I clear my throat, steeling myself. "Hermione Granger is my girlfriend. So we are past courting."

Astoria, who's hovering nearby, overhears our conversation and erupts into a fit of rage. "You're already moved on?! We were engaged! How could you, Draco?" The blonde places herself in front of me, her tone shrill, causing heads to turn in our direction.

Pansy's expression turns from smugness to anger as she glares at me. "You chose her over Astoria?" she hisses, her voice barely concealing her fury. "Does what your father did mean nothing?"

As I'm about to retort something particularly nasty, my mother remains composed. "Ladies," her tone was low but firm, "stop drawing attention - you'll only embarrass yourselves. Dinner is about to be served; find your dates." She left no room for argument, and I watched as a tearful Astoria grabbed Pansy's hand, and they left the drawing room.

As my mother and I walk into the dining hall together, she leans in closer to me, her voice barely above a whisper. "Draco, darling, is it true? Are you really with Hermione Granger?" Her concern is evident in her eyes as she searches mine for confirmation.

I nod slowly, feeling a weight lift off my shoulders now that the truth is out. "Yes, mother," I admit, relieved to finally be open about my relationship. "It's true. Hermione and I are together. I'm her alpha." Saying the words out loud has my heart skipping a beat.

Her expression softens, and she gives my hand a reassuring squeeze. "As long as you're happy, dear," she says gently. "That's all that matters to me."

I squeeze her hand in return. "I'm very happy with her."

As dinner progresses, the atmosphere in the dining room grows increasingly tense. Whispers start from one end of the table to the other, carrying on in hushed voices and curious glances. The Greengrass sisters and Pansy have their lips quirked in thinly veiled smirks and seem to find joy in fanning the flames of speculation. A gathering of pure-blood witches and wizards, many of whom had taken uncertain stances during the war, makes it easy for the room to be engulfed.

Despite the growing chatter, my mother and I keep our composure, our attention fixed firmly on our plates. We exchange occasional glances and quiet comments.

At one point, a particularly bold whisper catches my ear, carrying the unmistakable mention of Hermione's name. My alpha's hackles rise as a surge of protective instinct washes over me, but I remind myself to stay calm and composed.

As the murmurs continue to swirl around us, I take a deep breath, grateful Hermione didn't come. I don't want her to be subjected to this. And I'm praying to Merlin that our relationship will be paraded in The Daily Prophet tomorrow.

Hermione

5:45PM

Ginny yanks me inside and gives me a tight hug, "missed you! How was your thing?" She asks quietly, leaning back and taking in my appearance. "You're glowing."

Feeling a blush creep into my cheeks, I chuckle with embarrassment."It sucked, but what else is new?" I reply, shrugging as I step away from her towards the comforting ambiance of Harry's home.

Ginny's expression turns curious as she continues, "Malfoy didn't help make it more bearable?" She casts a sidelong glance at me, her tone tentative.

"Ginny!" I exclaim, lightly bumping her shoulder with mine. "None of your business!" I whisper-yell, trying to contain my excitement. But I can't help the grin that threatens to spread across my face, nerves and anticipation swirling in my stomach. "But," I pause, biting my lip, "he's kind of my boyfriend now."

"Kind of?!" She pulls me to a stop, her brown eyes wide on mine.

I giggle, feeling a surge of joy. "Okay, not kind of. He is." My heart races as I share the news with my best friend, reveling in the fact that the alpha I've chosen is mine.

"Astoria is going to have a cow!" Ginny laughs before her expression shifts to a dubious one. "But are you happy?" She asks softly, the dim hallway casting shadows around us.

"Very," I reply, unable to contain my smile. "Oh, and Gin? You know how you rant and rave about, uh," my face flushes even more. "Being eaten out?" My voice drops to a barely audible tone. Her eyes widen again and before she can say anything, I continue. "I get it." With that, I grab her hand and lead her towards the kitchen, where our friends are waiting.

Neville's and Harry's faces instantly pinch when I walk into the room. "Hey everyone! Happy New Year's!" I smile in greeting, giving Harry a hug and Neville a polite wave. Luna flounces up and gives me a hug, finding her spot next to her partner, and nuzzling the tall wizard's arm.

"Very," I reply, unable to contain my smile. "Oh, and Gin? You know how you rant and rave about, uh," my face flushes even more. "About being, well, you know..." I lower my voice to a barely audible tone. Her eyes widen again, but before she can say anything, I continue. "I get it." With that, I grab her hand and lead her towards the kitchen, where our friends are waiting.

As I begin to mix myself a drink from the various bottles of liquor and soda Harry has set out, I see him approach from my peripheral vision, staring at me intently.

"Hermione, do you want to tell me why you stink of Malfoy?" He inquires, his speckled eyes fixed on me.

Biting the inside of my cheek, I focus on pouring my drink. "Because we've been spending time together," I reply evenly.

"Is that so?" His gaze feels like it's drilling into the side of my head.

"It is," I confirm, wrinkling my nose as I take a sip of my too-strong drink, keeping my eyes on Harry. "Because Draco is my alpha." My words are spoken quietly, but they hang heavy in the air, and I watch as Harry's green eyes widen. "I'm sure Neville has probably kept you in the loop, along with anyone else at school you've stayed in touch with." The sheepish look that crosses his face confirms my suspicions. "So don't try your 'auror investigation' tactics on me."

Harry glowers at me and I stare back, refusing to back down. After a few tense moments of silence between us, he lets out a quiet "tsk" and shakes his head. "Ron is going to be fuming."

"I don't care. Ronald isn't my boyfriend - Draco is." Warmth pools in my stomach as the heavy liquor settles and a fuzzy feeling starts to creep up my spine. I miss Draco. "And besides, I've not talked to Ron since he's apparated away after I ended things.

"Then I'll let you tell him. Because he's just arrived." Harry pushes off the table he's leaning on and goes to hug the pink-cheeked redhead.

I don't have to tell him anything because he'll smell Draco on me.

"You didn't tell me you invited her!" Ron growls at Harry in an accusing tone and glares at me.

"Oh please. Harry is my friend too." I remind him and find a spot next to Ginny at the dining table.

His blue eyes stay narrowed as he grabs a beer from the fridge and looks at everyone sitting together. "Why in the bloody hell does it reek of Malfoy in here?" He turns his freckled nose up again and scents the air with a low growl. After a moment, his face pales, and his gaze zeroes in on me, inhaling deeply. "Why do you reek of Malfoy?"

Rolling my eyes, I cross my legs. "Because, Ronald. He's my alpha." I know those are the words he probably has had nightmares about, hating Draco as much as he does.

Blood instantly rushes back to his face, turning it an alarming shade of red. "You're fucking Malfoy?!" He growls out.

As glad as I am that Draco isn't here to deal with this, I wish he was here to support me. "It's none of your business," I say crossly. "Draco is my alpha and boyfriend."

Lavender walks into the kitchen with a bounce in her step, but Ron is still fuming. "Of all the alphas, of all the men you could choose to be with, you pick Draco bloody Malfoy!? Merlin, Hermione, aren't you supposed to be the brightest witch of our age?" Lavender instantly turns red and scoots back from him as the room falls dead silent.

"Ron!" Ginny gasps indignantly.

"That's enough, Ron," Harry says firmly. Even Neville looks tense.

I refuse to let Ron's outburst intimidate me or trigger my anger because I know he's just trying to hurt me. With a heavy sigh, I cross my legs, pick up my glass, and take a long drink, contemplating my next words. Whether it's the buzz settling in my brain or simply the fact that I'm content with my choice. I've been too nice with Ron. He doesn't get to speak to me that way. Draco wouldn't stand for it, so why should I? "It's okay," I reassure Ginny with a light pat on her thigh, meeting Ron's furious gaze head-on. "You're right. I do get to choose my partners and alphas... and I didn't choose you." My words are cutting, but I stand by them. "And I'll never choose you," I assert firmly before rising from my seat. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to use the restroom."

Once the bathroom door clicks shut behind me and I press the lock, I'm welcomed into momentary solitude. Leaning against the sink, I take deep breaths, trying to calm the trembling of my hands. The commotion beyond the door begs for my attention but I tune it out, focusing solely on the rhythm of my breath. After a few more quiet moments, I wash my hands and leave the bathroom, Ron and Lavender nowhere to be seen. The atmosphere isn't as tense but it's still awkward until Ginny excitedly suggests shots and a drinking game.

For the next few hours, Harry's home buzzes with conversation and laughter, filling the space with a vibrant energy. Yet, amidst the lively and cozy atmosphere, a subtle pang of longing grips my heart. With each passing hour, I find myself wishing for my alpha's presence, wishing he could be here beside me. This feeling grows stronger with every sip of the never-empty cup in my hand.

With only a few minutes until midnight, I watch the couples wrap up in each other's embrace, the excitement felt in the room to bring in the start of a new year. A fresh year.

My buzz has turned into brain fog, my body feels heavy, and my tongue heavier in my mouth. I can barely keep my eyes open. Without my ability to push the melancholic thoughts away, I dwell on the fact I should be bringing in the new year with my alpha. I should have gone with Draco or insisted he came here with me.

With just a minute left until midnight, a sharp knock reverberates against the door, sending a ripple of tension through Harry and Neville. Everyone in the house knows that Harry's wards are formidable, and unexpected visitors are cause for concern.

Another series of urgent knocks follows, accompanied by a muffled voice pleading from the other side. "Potter!"

My heart leaps at the sound of that familiar voice. "Draco," I breathe, scrambling to my feet, willing the room to stop its dizzying spin. Despite the sluggishness in my limbs, I rush towards the door, every second ticking closer to midnight.

"Hermione!" Harry's voice cuts through the haze of excitement, his concern evident as he follows after me. "What if it's a trap?"

"It's my alpha," I reply with a tipsy grin, my senses heightened by the anticipation of seeing Draco. Ignoring Harry's protests, I swing the door open, relief flooding through me at the sight of him standing there.

"Go see Gin," I instruct Harry without tearing my gaze away from Draco. With a gentle push, I guide him away from the doorway, my body instinctively gravitating towards my alpha.

His bowtie hangs loose, the top three buttons of his shirt undone, revealing the faint love bites I had sucked and nibbled into his pale skin. His once meticulously groomed hair is now tousled. Rosy hues tinge his nose and cheeks from the chill of the night air, while wisps of steam rise like a halo above his head, a soft cloud formed by his breath mingling with the cold.

"Miss me?" His voice carries a teasing undertone, but even in my current drunken state, I hear the sincerity underlying his question.

I nod eagerly, my arms instinctively wrapping around his neck as I lean my intoxicated body against his. Amidst the celebratory noises echoing from within and without, I confess in slurred words, "Missed you a lot," my gaze tilting upwards to meet his.

"I missed you, too," he chuckles softly, his arms enveloping me in a warm embrace. The scent of fire whiskey lingers on his breath, and I notice the slight glaze in his eyes.

Returning his laughter with a giggle, I pull him closer, reveling in the shared warmth amidst the cold draft seeping into the entryway.

"Hermione," he murmurs in a husky tone, guiding my gaze up with a gentle touch under my chin.

A rush of heat floods my stomach, my breath catching in my throat as his warm gaze meets mine. "Happy New Year," he whispers, his breath brushing against my face, igniting a tingling sensation within me.

"Happy New Year, Draco," I reply in a hushed tone, rising onto my tiptoes to meet his cold lips in a tender kiss.

His scent envelops me, clouding my thoughts and stirring a primal longing within. With a gentle nip at my bottom lip, I release a soft sigh, surrendering to the sweet sensation as I part my lips to welcome him. Another quiet sound comes from me as our kiss deepens, my hands gripping his dress shirt.

After a moment he breaks the kiss to press one against my forehead.

Draco

11:35PM

After a tense dinner, Blaise and I hide in the garden, sharing a flask between the two of us. I lament about missing Hermione, regretting not accompanying her or persuading her to join me instead. Even if this isn't the place I'd want her to be.

"Merlin's beard, Draco. Are you and Granger going to be this thick-headed throughout your entire relationship?" Blaise hisses at me after taking a long pull from the silver container before placing it back in my hand.

Glaring at him, I take a hefty swig myself. "What in the bloody hell do you mean?"

"I know we might be a bit pissed," he chuckles at that, "but what's keeping you here? You left the islands to care for her after her heat... Just tell your mum you want to see Hermione. I'm sure she'll understand." His words may be slurred, but he's right.

I give Blaise's shoulder a firm clap before excusing myself to find my mother, intent on making a swift exit from the stifling party. Apparating away, I find myself where I left Hermione earlier this evening.

Harry Potter's wards may be strong but not strong enough to keep a determined alpha from slipping through them. Nothing will stand in my way when it comes to having my omega in my arms once more.

The door swings open, releasing a wave of sweet amber and honey that calms my senses. There she stands before me, radiant and luminous, her gaze locking onto mine. Even if her scent didn't betray her intoxication, the glazed look in her eyes and her unsteady stance would give it away.

As our lips meet in our New Year's kiss, I taste the remnants of a sweet cocktail on her tongue, and despite my own lack of sobriety, I drink her in hungrily, savoring the intoxicating blend of her essence mingled with the heady rush of desire.

But here is not the time nor the place. I pull away with much resolve and kiss her forehead.

"Come in," she murmurs, her hand reaching out to grasp mine as she pulls me inside, ready to lead me toward the drawing room.

But I stop her with a shake of my head. "Maybe next time. I'll meet you here later to take you to your cottage?" I suggest instead, not wanting to deal with fucking Weasley, Potter, and Longbottom.

"Let me just say goodbye. I want to go home now," she replies with a lopsided grin, her grip on my hand firm as she drags me into the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the room.

"Hey, I'm going to head out," she announces, trying to stifle a giggle as she looks at me, her flushed face betraying more than just the effects of liquor.

Ginny, sprawled on the couch with her head in Potter's lap, lets out a whine. "Nooo, stay with us," she protests, her voice muffled by the cushions.

Potter chuckles and pats Ginny's head gently. "She's done for the night, and it seems Luna is too," he observes, nodding towards where Luna leans heavily against Longbottom.

Where's the Weasel? I swear I caught his scent when I came in.

Another giggle escapes my omega as she approaches Ginny, lightly patting her head. "See you. And you," she adds, planting a kiss on top of Potter's head before waving farewell to Luna and Neville. "Byeee," she chirps, her hand slipping into mine as she nearly stumbles over herself. "Let's take the Floo. I think I might be sick if I try to Apparate," she adds, her grip tightening on mine as we make our way towards the fireplace.

As we step into the wide Floo, her arms encircle my waist, her head nestling into the crook of my shoulder. I can't help but smile as the emerald flames engulf us, transporting us to her cozy cottage.

"I told them, Draco," she sighs, sinking onto the couch and letting her body melt into the soft cushions. My alpha instincts kick in, drunk or not, reminding me that she needs to be in her nest, dressed in her pajamas, and we both desperately need water.

"I told Blaise and my mother," I murmur as I gently stroke her hair. And a majority of the pureblood elites are also aware.

"Your mother?" she gasps, her body tensing with surprise.

"Yes," I chuckle, undoing the bow in her hair with gentle fingers.

"She bought my ball dress for the last dance. Did I tell you?" she asks, burying her face into a pillow on the couch.

"Really?" I respond, genuinely surprised. "She never mentioned it." I untie her boots and place them neatly near the Floo, ready to carry my omega upstairs.

"Mm, she did. I sent her a thank you note," Hermione nods, her feet tucked tightly beneath her.

"So I guess you don't need me to tell you she approves," I chuckle, clinging to the thread of sobriety as I gather my resolve to lift the drunk omega and carry her to her room.

"Ginny is happy for us. Harry will come around," she yawns, her bloodshot eyes meeting mine as her small hand reaches up to stroke my face.

"And the Weasel?" I blurt out before I can stop myself, gently laying her down in the nest of blankets on her bed, my fingers deftly working to remove her tights.

"He yelled at me. Insulted my intelligence," she dismisses with a casual wave of her hand. "He's always been jealous of you for a variety of reasons. I think our relationship might be his number one reason now."

Anger simmers within me at the thought of him raising his voice at my omega. I let out a low noise of disapproval, my protective instincts flaring.

"I don't care what he thinks, alpha. I'm happy," she purrs, a longing sigh escaping her lips as she presses her thighs together. Unable to resist, I smirk as I tug her panties off, adding them to the growing pile on the floor.

Carefully, I slip her silk pajama shorts over her legs before removing the oversized sweater with her bra following suit. My gaze lingers on her pink, puffy nipples, going hard in the cool air. A primal hunger stirring within me. Every aspect of this witch is enticing. Leaning down, I press a tender kiss to her stomach before dressing her in a shirt of mine that she claimed as hers.

"I'll be right back, pet. Going to get us a couple of potions and some water. And a cloth to remove your makeup, hm?"

"Mhm," she's already rooting about her nest to find the pillow I've been using and buries her face into it.

Leaving her momentarily, I swiftly gather the items, along with a soft, damp cloth. I return to her to tenderly wipe away the traces of makeup from her face, enjoying the intimate closeness of our shared space. I coax her to drink a potion that should help with the hangover she'll have in the morning. After she finishes the glass of water, she tugs at me.

"C'mon, alpha," she yawns hugely before leaning back into bed. I chuckle and undress myself down to my briefs. I chug the potion and the water before climbing into her nest with her.

As soon as I'm settled into my spot, she's on me. "Wanna know something?" she whispers, her eyes closed in contentment.

"Mm, don't say anything you'll regret in the morning, princess." I chuckle softly, returning her affection and pulling her impossibly closer.

"You're my alpha. I regret nothing," she mumbles against my chest. "So… do you wanna know?"

A heavy sigh comes from me before I nod, kissing the top of her curly head. "Sure."

"I wish you were here during my heat. I was hoping you'd knock on my door," she admits, her voice growing softer as sleep begins to claim her.

I tense beside her, glancing down at her. "Yeah?" I inquire cautiously, my throat tight.

"Wanted to ask last time too," she yawns. "Been thinking of you for a few heats."

"Mm, we'll talk about it," I whisper, gently stroking her hair, pretending like my dick is half hard and my body is feeling too warm.

"Mhm," she nods, her breathing getting even.

It's hard to find sleep after her confession. I stay awake, holding her sleeping form. Her soft, cute snores aren't enough to lull me asleep.

She wants me as bad as I want her.