VII

As Hermione and Bellatrix made their way to the table, Minerva stood to great them warmly. "Hello ladies, thank you for inviting me to breakfast" Minerva relied with a smile. Hermione glanced at Bellatrix who smiled politely in return. There was no hint of discomfort on her part. Curiosity, yes, but she seemed relaxed.

Hermione immediately took charge of the situation considering it was because of her they were there in the first place.

"Thank you both for joining me today. As I sit here now I'm suddenly embarrassed. Minerva, as my closest friend, I wanted you to formally meet Bellatrix as my potential lover and mate." Hermione surprised herself with her response as Minerva raised a perfectly sculpted eyebrow.

"Well, she said, I am glad we got that out in the open first thing," She replied with a coy smile. "Hermione, you must know my dear that approval, and certainly not mine is not a requirement. Love happens in the places we least expect it. All we can do is be mindful in our pursuits, and not act selfishly or allow guilt to dictate our actions." Minerva continued and gave Hermione her full attention. "I believe the expectation that you would fall in love with Ronald Weasley or even Harry Potter is at the root of this guilt you carry with you. Everyone assumed what you knew was the complete opposite," Minerva held her gaze with a piercing stare. In that moment, Hermione knew that Minerva had discovered her long buried secret.

Hermione had been in love with Ginny Weasley since the start of the Order of the Phoenix. She'd thought she hid her desire brilliantly, but apparently not well enough for the most brilliant witch of their age. When Ginny confessed her love for Harry shortly after the death of his godfather Sirius Black, Hermione felt her world turn completely upside down. She knew that she'd have to come to terms with her feelings. She'd also know she had to speak with Ronald about his constant overtures. She loved Ron, but only as a friend. Ginny was the first, and only woman she'd ever loved up to that point. As the years went by, Hermione realized that Ginny and Harry belonged together and although she loved Ginny deeply, it was never meant to be.

Returning to the present, she glanced a look at Bellatrix who was completely enthralled with Minerva's revelation. Both Bellatrix and Minerva looked at her expectedly.

Hermione took a deep breathe and replied, "I was in love with someone who's name I will not mention in public company. Bellatrix, I will give you full details. For now, I'll say that yes Minerva, that is the reason I am seeking approval for what has transpired between Bellatrix and I. As she spoke, Bellatrix interrupted her politely. "With all due respect Headmistress, - "Minerva, please, Minerva insisted.

"Minerva, you and I know all too well of the past and our own history together. So much was misunderstood, and I'd like to think that we developed an acquaintance and have formed a tentative friendship. I'm happy that Hermione has you as a mentor and a friend. I care for her a great deal and want to know if we have a future. The war and the reputation of my family will have you believe that we are ruthless witches and wizards with no hearts. This is not the case, yes, we've made terrible mistakes. But the important thing is that we've learned from those mistakes and have moved forward. I wish to court her, the old-fashioned way." Bellatrix looked at Hermione just then. There was fire behind those deep black eyes. Fire and determination that caused tingles all over Hermione's already aroused skin.

Hermione gazed back longingly, Minerva cleared her throat delicately. "Now ladies, let us try to contain our selves until after the meal," Minerva said taking a sip of her tea. Both Hermione and Bellatrix tore their eyes from one another and blushed. Meeting each other's eyes again they all laughed. The remainder of breakfast was a relaxed affair. Conversation flowed naturally, it felt as if they'd talked this was many times before. Despite the somewhat awkward circumstances of their meeting, they made the best of it and enjoyed themselves.

Hermione and Bellatrix bade Minerva goodbye outside the Great Hall. There was an awkward moment of silence as each witch was lost in thought. Turning to Bellatrix, Hermione was the first to break the silence.

"What do you have planned for the day?" she inquired. Hermione hoped that Bella was free. She wanted to spend time with her alone, explain to her the root of her anxiety. Although she knew that Bellatrix likely understood her reasons for holding back. Bellatrix turned to her with a smile.

"Nothing, I am free the entire day. I had assumed we would spend time together today, so I don't have any plans." She responded with an indulgent smile. Bellatrix eyed Hermione and waited to see what she'd do. She would let her lead from now on. No more assertiveness on her part except when it mattered most. Bella decided that she'd hold back until they were in the bedroom. She blushed at her naughty thoughts.

Hermione brightened at that. "Great! Why don't we go for a walk? It's a beautiful day." Nodding to Hermione they set off towards the entrance of the castle and began strolling the grounds. The excited chatter of students floated past them every now and then. The weather was crisp and promising for the season, perfect for cuddling.

The further they walked from the hum of students milling around the castle, the more intimate their surroundings felt. Hermione took a leap of faith and as they strolled she reached for Bella's hand, hoping her overture was welcomed. She smiled as she felt a gentle squeeze in her own hand. Smiling she glanced over and was met with the most beautiful smile yet. She felt giddy inside, knowing her blush had nothing to do with the cold wind against her cheeks. Hermione led them to a bench overlooking the pond.

"I've imagined this moment for months," Hermione replied. She looked over at Bellatrix and felt such gratitude for trusting in her instincts. In this moment, all she felt were the familiar stirrings and throbbing of longing. She needed to make love to this woman promptly. Hungrily, she trailed her eyes over Bellatrix's face. First her eyes, then her lips, she gazed lustfully at the creamy skin of her neck and licked her own lips with desire. Yes, the time is now.

Hermione walked into Bella's personal space, she cupped the back of her head in her hands and kissed her deeply. Momentarily, she felt Bella stiffen in surprise at the unexpected feeling of hungry lips against her own. Bella relaxed into the kiss as their bodies moved together. Hands wandered and caressed greedily.

"…We must get back," Hermione choked out in a gasp. All at once she felt parts of her body flush with need. Bella sighed deeply as the kiss came to an end. "…Why are we still talking?" Bellatrix grabbed Hermione's hand and instantly they apparated to Bella's personal rooms. Hermione felt the air shift around her and her body relaxed.

There is a moment when you just know it'll be significant; a moment you know you'll remember forever. The feel of Bella's lips on her's was the best thing she's ever felt in her entire life. Sympatico. That is the moment, Sympatico.