Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

The Kill Shot	By : Lizski Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Lucius/Hermione Views: 12741 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: I don’t own the world of Harry Potter, or the characters – I just borrow them on occasion. I’m most definitely not making any money off this.

Chapter List
- 9
- 10
- 11
Chapter Nine

Lucius stared at the closed door, stunned. His first instinct had been to grab her arm, but he had immediately quashed that idea; he didn’t want to scare her. Besides, he wasn’t sure what he would have done once he’d grabbed her. And before he had had any time to think about how he should act, she had disappeared into her room. He rubbed the spot on his cheek where she had kissed him. She kissed me. Technically, it was a peck on the cheek. Which means what? That she wanted to kiss me properly, but didn’t want to take the chance? Or was it just a polite kiss? Why the hell didn’t I just grab her arm and not let her escape? Because I would have scared the hell out of her. Being grabbed by a former Death Eater in a dark hallway at night isn’t exactly the best formula for a romantic encounter. Even if she knows I’m not a Death Eater any more. And it’s just as well she doesn’t know what I did when I was one. I’d rather leave it to her imagination than have her know. Thor’s balls. I’d rather I could leave it to my imagination. He ran his hands over his face. What was I thinking? What I wouldn’t give to have the last three—hell, the last twenty years back. Of course, with hindsight it’s always easy to imagine what you could have done. What you should have done.

Lucius continued to stare at the closed wooden door. He knew the door well; it had been the door to his suite for twenty years. It was a thick oak door darkened by centuries of use, sporting heavy metal studs and thick wrought-iron hoop-style handles. There were scars on the dark wood—both on the outside and on the inside. The scars on the outside had been made centuries ago when the door protected the inner keep from invaders, back when the place was a fortress and not merely a country manor. There was even a deep gouge from a battle axe wielded by a long-dead attacker. The door and its twin had both been moved to the main entrance of the dining room when the fortress was transformed into an estate, and it remained there for centuries. When Lucius became lord of the Manor, he moved this particular door to his bedroom while its less-damaged twin protected the entrance to the study off the bedroom suite. These were more than just doors to him; they were symbols of the history of the Manor and the family, as well as a sign of strength. And it is intimidating, he thought, looking at the marks on the door. You’ve got to really want in to approach that door when it’s closed. And he knew there was a heavy iron bolt lock on the inside. If you wanted to get in when it was locked, you’d need more than a battle axe. Of course, maybe Hermione only uses the smaller slide lock. Or maybe she doesn’t lock the door at all. She didn’t the other night. He smiled in memory. But if she had wanted me to come in, she would have asked.

Why did she kiss me on the cheek? Was that another friendly gesture, or a prelude to something more? Lucius continued to ponder the question as he walked back down the hallway and ascended the stairs to the library. Maybe I won’t get drunk after all. But I’m going to have another drink and figure out how I’d like to dress her. Something that won’t inflame Severus. Ah. Severus. My old friend. “Friend.” As they say, with friends like that, you’ve got all the enemies you need. And what is Hermione’s interest in Severus? Clearly she was interested in him at some point; her reaction to my questions made that clear enough. I wonder when. And how far it went. I doubt Severus would ever have shown her any attention at Hogwarts; Dumbledore would certainly have cut off his balls, if Voldemort didn’t. But that doesn’t mean Hermione wasn’t interested in Severus. And things are different now. No Dumbledore, no Voldemort. And Hermione is not his student any more. I certainly have no idea what type of woman interests him; he occasionally indulged himself on Death Eater raids, but who someone rapes isn’t exactly an indicator of one’s true taste in women. And Hermione may still be attracted to him. But I’ll be damned if Severus is going to take my woman. Even if she’s not my woman. Yet. But she will be. Because I will pursue her until she realizes I am worthy of her.

***

Hermione shut the door, her heart still pounding. She sat down on a leather-covered padded bench—a holdout from when these were Lucius’ rooms—and immediately stood up again, pacing the sitting area of her suite of rooms. What the hell did I just do? I kissed him. It wasn’t a proper kiss, but it was a kiss. My lips touched his skin. His cheek. Why did I do it? I wanted to. It’s that simple. Except it’s not that simple. I wanted to kiss him. Really kiss him. But I couldn’t. I don’t know what would have happened if I had kissed him. I’m not sure what I would want to have happened. Mab’s knickers! I don’t doubt he had women throwing themselves at him when he was at the height of his power and influence. And I sure as hell don’t want to be just one more woman throwing herself at him. Gods. She kicked off her shoes and continued her pacing.

What do I want from him? He’s the first man I’ve ever met who really engages me on so many levels: physically, emotionally, intellectually. Last night I had a feeling there was more to Lucius than he lets most people see. Now I’m certain there is. I just don’t know whether he’s toying with me or is really interested. He seemslike he’s really interested, but how do I know? He’s been a master manipulator for years; maybe I’m just an amusement for him. Or maybe he’s serious; maybe he really does like me. Either way, I’ve got to take it slow with him. It would be too easy to end up in over my head, not knowing what I was dealing with.

Hermione began to undress, idly wondering what it would feel like to have Lucius undress her. She slipped off her jeans, running her hands over her hips, and then slid her hands over her abdomen, under her fleece, cupping her breasts, imagining Lucius’ hands on her. Gods. I want him. And that way lies madness. She pulled her fleece off with a quick tug. Damn. It’s been so long since I’ve been with anyone. And I’m sure his hands are capable of amazing things. She continued to undress, catching a glimpse of her own naked body in the full-length mirror in the dressing room. She smiled at her reflection and walked into the bedroom.

Hermione climbed into bed, her mind full of images of Lucius’ hands and mouth on her body. She felt a dense heat pooling between her legs and spreading through her body. She gave up trying to fight the urge, and rolled onto her back. She slipped her hands between her legs, lazily teasing her clit with one finger as she imagined Lucius’ eyes locked on her, scrutinizing her as his fingers teased her. She ground her hips against the bed, spreading her legs as she slid two fingers in and out of her body, her thumb rubbing her clit as she continued to pretend it was Lucius’ hand pleasuring her. She moved her hips faster in an age-old rhythm as her mind’s eye narrowed to Lucius’ grey eyes, her sensations focused on the slick fire between her legs until she lost herself in the all-encompassing release. Moments later she lay back on her pillows, her skin damp with sweat, her body utterly relaxed as her heartbeat slowed to its normal resting rate. Suddenly drowsy, Hermione fell asleep contemplating Lucius’ hands.

***

Settled in the library with more brandy, Lucius began to flip through the catalog he had received from Madam Malkin and was struck by what an absurd picture this would paint to anyone who thought they knew him. Not that anyone has ever known me. Not even me, not for a long time. It’s only been in the last year that I’ve really gotten to know myself. It’s amazing how you can avoid looking in the deep recesses of your soul if you don’t want to know what’s lurking there. But after avoiding myself for so long, I had a moment of true clarity in the Varian Glen. It had to be done. And that is one action I don’t regret. I’m not sure it frees me of everything I did before, but if I hadn’t made that one move, I’d never have had a chance of being free of my former life. He took a swallow of brandy and turned back to the catalog. I don’t want to be philosophical tonight. Hermione kissed me. Even if it was on the cheek. And she did hold my hand. Gods. He laughed at himself. I’m like an unproven boy. And it feels good. Damn, does it feel good. I haven’t felt this free in—Merlin’s balls, I haven’t felt this happy and unfettered ever!

Lucius took another swallow of his brandy, the clothing catalog still open on his lap. He knew he would have to select something modest. Or at least not revealing. Madam Malkin made a variety of beautiful halter-style dresses left the wearer’s back pleasantly bare. But Severus would most definitely misinterpret such a dress. However, Hermione could be covered from shoulder to knee and still be sexy. Merlin. She could be wearing a sack and she’d still be sexy. But Severus would likely have issues with Hermione wearing a sack, too. As would Hermione. No, it will have to be something form-fitting. And it’s got to have a simple neckline. I know exactly the jewelry I want her to wear. And earrings. I’ll have to talk to Maysie and have her re-create that hairstyle from the other night. He flipped through the pages of the catalog distractedly. Madam Malkin sold everything, if you knew how to ask. And his Galleons were very polite.

Lucius continued to peruse the catalog until inspiration struck. He went to Hermione’s desk and penned a note to Madam Malkin. After a moment of thought, he penned a second note. Severus won’t be here forever, and there is no reason why Hermione shouldn’t wear clothes that accentuate her assets. Smiling, he sealed the second note with wax, wondering briefly what had happened to his signet ring and just as quickly dismissing the idea. After a moment of thought, the wizard penned a third note, to Teasebury and Dotts, procurers of delicacies to the elite of the wizarding world. When he was done he returned to the couch and contemplated the day. It had been a long, emotional day. And thanks to Hermione, he had a smile on his face at the end of it. Where would I be without her?

***

Hermione awoke the next morning with a smile on her face. She felt pleasantly rested. She stretched lazily in the warm cocoon of her blankets before she got out of bed. She walked into the dressing room and took a bite of the English muffin waiting there for her and began rooting around for her running shoes, before she stopped cold. Snape is going to be here today. Fuck. I’m not even used to having Lucius Malfoy in my house. Hell. I’m not even used to owning the Manor, and now I’ve got to deal with Snape, too. She rummaged through the armoire to find running tights and a base layer while finishing the first half of her breakfast. She turned back to her plate and noticed a scroll tucked neatly under the edge of the plate. With a sudden feeling of trepidation, she took it and unrolled it.

Dear Ms. Granger,

I would like to speak with you about Ministry matters before dinner this evening. I will arrive at the Manor at two o’clock this afternoon, and plan on staying the night. I would appreciate your arranging a guest room for me.

Your servant,

Severus Snape

Hermione looked at the scroll, dumbfounded. Two o’clock? And he’s going to stay the night? And he’s telling me? Not asking me? That arrogant bastard. Maybe it’s not convenient for me. But of course it has to be convenient for me. Damnit.

She threw on her clothes and did the only thing she could think of. “Dobby, I need your help—”

*pop* “Dobby is already preparing rooms for Mister Severus. They is in the guest wing. Far from Miss and mmph—”

Hermione smiled. Dobby had a hard time referring to Lucius by his first name, and refused—rightly so—to call him “Master”, so more often than not Dobby referred to Lucius by using an indecipherable noise. “Thank you, Dobby. How did you know?” She thought for a second. “No, never mind. Elf magic. Thank you for handling this. And everything. You are a life-saver. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

The elf smiled, pleased. “Dobby is happy to be making Miss Hermione Granger’s life easier. Anything Dobby can do to help the friend of Harry Potter, Miss is only having to ask.”

“Thanks, Dobby. And if you can make Snape comfortable, but not too comfortable, I’d really appreciate it.” The elf nodded his assent and was getting ready to disappear when Hermione had a thought. “Dobby, do you know where Lucius is right now?”

“Mmph.” He looked like he wasn’t going to say anything for a moment, but then he finally responded. “In the dining room, Miss,” and he vanished without a further word.

Moments later Hermione was in the dining room. Lucius was seated to the right of the head of the table, simultaneously eating a large breakfast and reading the Daily Prophet. He put down the newspaper and his fork at the same time and smiled at her. “Good morning, Miss ‘Order of Merlin, First Class’.”

“What?”

Lucius smirked and gestured toward the newspaper. “We made the front page. And Circe be praised, they didn’t use my mugshot.”

Hermione tried to hide a smile at his blatant vanity. He’s lost everything, and he’s thinking about what picture appears in the paper.

“Apparently I was released from Azkaban for providing ‘invaluable assistance’ to the Ministry, and have been ‘placed under the direct supervision of the exceedingly talented witch and war hero, Miss Hermione Granger, Order of Merlin, First Class.’ And I quote,” he added unnecessarily. “Congratulations,” he continued, inclining his head. “I had no idea, or I would have been far more solicitous.” He smiled ingratiatingly.

“Uh. Thanks. To be honest, I hadn’t given it much thought,” she replied.

“The highest honor that can be bestowed upon a witch or wizard and you ‘haven’t given it much thought’? I didn’t realize you were so modest.”

“It’s not that. I was in a coma when it was awarded. I wasn’t actually aware of it until months after the presentation, and by then I was too busy trying to get back to my life. Not that it’s not a big deal, I’ve just had a lot of other things on my mind.”

“I think you should wear the medal when Severus arrives. His expression would be priceless.” Lucius smirked. “It’s got to drive him crazy that after all of his hard work and duplicity he got nothing more than a thank-you and an official release from the Ministry of any affiliation with Voldemort, while three of his least-favorite students received the highest recognition available. Poor Severus. He’s got to be burning,” the blonde concluded with a wicked smirk.

Hermione felt herself grinning. Now that you mention it, Snape probably is a little miffed. But I don’t want to aggravate him further. Not now, at least. “That might not be the best idea. I have a feeling he’s already a little, er, displeased with me.”

“Displeased? With you? Why?” Lucius’ voice took on a protective tone.

“Well, uh, that’s actually why I’m here. Your ‘dear friend’ Severus is going to be here at two o’clock. And he’s planning on staying the night.”

“Indeed. I daresay he’s displeased with one of us. Or both of us,” the blonde added with a leering smile. “Possibly he’s jealous?”

“I have no idea. Apparently he wants to discuss ‘Ministry concerns’ with me,” she rolled her eyes. “Anyway, I just wanted to warn you. I’m going on a run. With any luck I’ll get eaten by a hippogriff and I can completely avoid Snape.”

“You would get yourself eaten by a hippogriff just so I had to deal with Severus alone, wouldn’t you?” The laughter in his eyes betrayed his attempt at a serious tone.

“Yes, I would, and it would serve you right. So I’m going to go rub myself in ferret musk and see how many hippogriffs I can attract.”

“Oooh,” he purred, and Hermione felt herself blush. “Can I help? I’d love to slather you in—”

Hermione fought back a smile. “Goodbye!” she called as she left the dining room.

Lucius watched her walk out, admiring her backside in the skin-tight pants she wore for running. Maybe I should take up running. Or just make sure I’m strategically located whenever she’s wearing those clothes. Grinning with pleasure, he turned back to his eggs and the newspaper.

***

Hermione gave up trying to read the book in her hands; after reading the same paragraph four times, she knew it was hopeless. She rifled through the Daily Prophet; her picture was from her Ministry ID badge, while Lucius’ picture was from, well, she had no idea. “When did they get this picture of you? You look almost respectable. And almost humble. If they hadn’t put your name by it I’d barely have recognized you,” she teased.

Lucius gave her a mocking smile from his reclining position on the couch. “Severus has really got you worked up, hasn’t he? Why, I wonder?” He looked thoughtful. “Are you nervous about seeing a former lover? Or the main player in your fantasies?” He raised his eyebrows hopefully.

Hermione looked for something to throw at him. “So you want me to tell you my fantasies involving Snape?”

Lucius sat up in exaggerated anticipation. “In detail. Don’t leave out anything. I want to hear every sweaty moment,” he leered openly. With a quick flick of her wrist, Hermione caught the side of his famously blond head with the folded-up newspaper. “Hey! That was uncalled for!” he cried without rancor. “I’m just trying to figure out what turns you on. And if it makes you more comfortable to substitute Severus for me when you’re telling me about them, I guess I’ll have to put up with that for now.” He winked at her.

The witch felt her face burn, not entirely due to embarrassment. Although she wasn’t going to admit to Lucius that it had been his face she saw last night as she got herself off. And it would take more magical skill than Lucius was allowed to use at present to learn that two years ago, it had been Snape’s face she saw. “You need a hobby,” she replied glibly.

“Oh, don’t worry, my dear. I’ve got one. It’s just not as much fun to play solitaire as it is to play with someone else.” His smirk was so self-satisfied, Hermione wanted to smack him. Or at least throw something else at him.

What you wouldn’t give to know my fantasies, she thought with amusement, while trying to come up with an appropriate reply.

She was saved by Dobby’s appearance. “Mister Severus Snape is in the entrance hall.”

“Uh. Great,” Hermione replied, while Lucius choked back something that sounded suspiciously like a laugh. “Please send him up, and see that his bags get to his room—wherever you’ve put him. Thanks, Dobby.”

“Yes, Miss,” the elf replied before vanishing.

“Do you want a drink?” Lucius asked conversationally

“It would have been a bit more helpful if you’d thought of it before now.” She looked at the opening door. Clearly Snape had already been on his way up even as Dobby was announcing him.

Hermione stood up from behind the desk, while Lucius returned to his reclined position on the couch.

Severus Snape entered the library and Hermione’s first thought was: He still wears those same damn clothes with all the buttons. How long does it take him to get dressed every morning? At least he washed his hair. “Welcome to Mal—er, my home, Professor Snape,” she stated formally, realizing she had almost called the place Malfoy Manor and she had just addressed him as Professor. Very smooth, Granger, she chided herself.

“Afternoon, Severus,” Lucius drawled from the couch.

The dark-haired wizard ignored his old acquaintance and turned to Hermione. “Thank you for having me. And please call me Severus; I am not your professor any longer. May I call you Hermione?”

Naw. I think I’ll continue to make you call me Miss Granger, just to keep you on your toes, she responded silently. “Of course, Severus.” Gods, that feels weird. “Severus” to his face. Not too long ago I would have received detention for that. “Please come in and take a seat. Would you like something to eat?”

Snape looked at the couch, fully occupied by Lucius, and then automatically sat in the wing chair recently designated as Lucius’. Of course, Hermione thought, he’s been visiting here for years. He wouldn’t presume to take Lucius’ chair. Even if he doesn’t realize it’s mine now.

“I’ve already eaten, thank you. But I would like to discuss business with you now, if I may, so we can get it out of the way.” He glanced at Lucius, who was trying hard to hide his smirk.

Hermione sat in her wing chair by the fire. “By all means.”

“This is Ministry business, and doesn’t concern—ah—isn’t relevant to Lucius.” Severus stared meaningfully at the blond, who slowly sat up.

“Ah. Top secret information that cannot be discussed around the likes of convicted criminals such as myself. I understand. I’ll go lock myself in the dungeons, shall I?” Lucius’ smirk was undeniable now.

Smartass, Hermione thought affectionately. Lucius is going to be relentless with Snape. I just hope he behaves enough to keep himself out of Azkaban. “If that’ll make you happy, by all means. Should I send one of the elves to make sure the shackles are locked?”

Lucius narrowed his eyes at Hermione while fighting off a smile. “Ah. On second thought, I think I’ll retire to my rooms. Please let me know when I’m allowed out again.” He stood up slowly and strolled to the bookshelves holding the Gothic romances. He selected a thick tome and sauntered out of the library, his cane tapping on the hardwood floor.

Once the door was shut Severus moved onto the couch, sitting on the end nearest Hermione’s chair. “Hermione, I need to speak to you about Lucius. I—ah, the Ministry and I have concerns about your relationship with Lucius. He can be a very, ah, persuasive individual, and we would hate to see Lucius attempt to, ah, persuade you to do anything you don’t want to do.”

“Well, I can assure you and the Ministry all is fine and I have Lucius firmly under control.”

“Miss Granger. Hermione. Let me remind you that Lucius Malfoy is a convicted Death Eater. He was with Voldemort in the final battle. You, of all people, should appreciate that fact.”

Hermione couldn’t help but wonder if Severus sneered so much that it was now second nature to him. Regardless, she bristled at his approach. “I know exactly where he was during the battle. I confess, I’m less certain as to where you were. You certainly weren’t with members of the Order, and you weren’t captured with the Death Eaters. Where were you? Hiding? Waiting to see the outcome before deciding which allegiance you were going to honor?” The words came out quickly, and she was instantly mortified that she had spoken the thoughts she had meant to suppress.

Snape’s eyes narrowed dangerously. “My allegiance is not in question. The Ministry has no concerns about me. Neither should you.” His voice was acidic, and Hermione mentally cringed.

Hermione flicked her eyes around the room but said nothing, still stinging from her former teacher’s response. I probably deserved that.

“Just because Lucius Malfoy turned over some Dark Arts items does not mean his past should be erased. In fact, I think it was a dangerous plan to let Lucius live in his old home with just you. I have no idea what the Minister was thinking. Lucius is a master manipulator, and it appears to me he is manipulating you,” he hissed, his dark eyes flashing angrily.

“And in what manner, exactly, am I being manipulated?” Hermione shot back, her own anger growing.

Severus looked up at the ceiling. “Oh, let’s see,” he began sarcastically. “First he convinced you to have him released from Azkaban—”

“The Minister approved that, and,” she continued with added vehemence, “that deal resulted in the single largest recovery of Dark Arts items in the history of the Ministry of Magic. Not only were a lot of very bad things secured, ensuring they didn’t fall into the wrong hands, but it was a major boost to morale. The public was very happy to see the Ministry wasn’t going to just rest on its laurels after the downfall of Voldemort.”

“And yet,” Snape hissed, “the public is now hearing rumors of Lucius Malfoy walking the halls of St. Mungo’s, hand in hand with you, like a pair of lovebirds. That is raising serious concerns. People are wondering whether Lucius has escaped. They are wondering whether he is looking to stage his own coup against the Ministry. There are a great number of people who believe he has both the magical ability and the power of persuasion to do such a thing. Your coziness with him only furthers the rumors.” Snape gave her a sly smirk.

What did I ever see in this guy? “You are aware, are you not, of the numerous articles in the Daily Prophet concerning his release? Are you aware Lucius’ wand has a governor on it? That he can’t use it to perform more than the most basic spells? That he can’t use someone else’s wand without the Ministry knowing immediately? That he can’t Apparate by himself, he can’t leave the Manor without an escort, and even then the Ministry tracks his actions?” She glared fiercely at her former instructor. “That is not exactly a recipe for world domination,” she finished.

Snape gave her a closed-lip smile. “And of course, you couldn’t possibly be an instrument for, ah, ‘world domination’ as you call it,” he replied.

Hermione gave the wizard a dry smile. “I couldn’t afford to begin a campaign for world domination, even if I wanted to. Which I don’t.” She paused, her outrage cooling quickly at the ridiculousness of the wizard’s accusations. “Don’t worry, the world is safe from me. And Lucius Malfoy.”

Severus’ face lost its harsh angles. “But why were you holding hands with him?” the dark-haired wizard persisted.

Hermione opened her mouth to tell Severus about Lucius’ apprehension over seeing Draco, and immediately closed it again. It occurred to her that the Lucius-Severus dynamic was far more complicated than she had initially realized, and she had a feeling it had little to do with Lucius’ past as a Death Eater. It ran much deeper than that. Instinctively she knew Snape would try to exploit Lucius’ vulnerability when it came to Draco. And she couldn’t let her former Potions Master do that. “I’m a single female. I’ve got needs. Friendship. Companionship,” she added hastily, in case he got the wrong idea. “I don’t have a lot of contact with other people, and it felt good to hold his hand.”

Severus’ overall demeanor changed dramatically and immediately. He put his hand casually on her knee, his face taking on a look Hermione had never seen before, and one she couldn’t identify. “Hermione.” His voice became quieter, silkier. “Hermione. It must be hard for you, here alone with Lucius. He does have a certain charm to him, and when you don’t see anyone else, it can be easy to be taken in by him. But you don’t have to be alone.” His dark eyes sought hers, and she felt her breath catch in her throat. “You are an attractive woman. I’ve recognized it for a few years now. With Albus and the Dark Lord breathing down my neck, there was nothing I could do. But now—now you aren’t my student any more, and there is no one to stop us.”

Hermione felt herself flush, unable to speak. Okay, now I remember what I saw in him. Severus placed his other hand on hers and she felt her pulse quicken. “Hermione. Please. Let me take you out of here. For dinner,” he implored. “Not tonight, of course. But this week.” He stroked her hand gently with his thumb.

“Erm—” she began in protest. Snape? Noticed me? And wants to go out with me? She glanced down at his hands and his long, dexterous fingers. Gods. I used to dream of those fingers. She blushed at the memory.

“Hermione. Trust me. It will do you some good to get out of the house, even if it is for a few hours.” He looked around. “No matter how nice a house it is. And,” he smiled dryly, “it is quite a nice house. I commend you on the acquisition.”

The witch shrugged, trying to shake off the feelings her former instructor was evoking. “I can’t actually say I spent my life dreaming of owning Malfoy Manor—”

Snape looked genuinely surprised. “It is one of the most well-known domiciles in the wizarding world. Its recent past has made it undesirable, but you have definitely done well for yourself. I’m sure there is more than one wizard who would marry you for the Manor alone.”

Does that include you, Severus? And you do realize that’s not exactly a compliment? “I’m not sure how to take that, so I’ll just assume you meant I made a good move purchasing the Manor. As for anyone who would marry just for my house? Eh. Not interested. I’d prefer someone who was interested in me for me, and not just for the building I inhabit. Actually, I'm not interested in marrying anyone.” She paused. “I’d like to keep the wine cellar all to myself,” she smirked.

Snape gave a very dry smile. “Then it’s unfortunate you have Lucius here. If his past history is any indication, he’ll make a substantial dent in that cellar.”

Hermione grinned. “Then I’ll make sure he gets a bill. He can afford to restock the wine cellar, and it’s not as if he has anything else to do with his money.”

The wizard nodded but looked serious again. “It has come to the attention of the Ministry that Lucius has been spending money at Madam Malkin’s. Is he adding to his already ample wardrobe or is he spending his money on something—or someone—else?”

You already know the answer; are you trying to see if I’m hiding something? It’s a good thing neither side put you to work as an interrogator; you suck at it, Severus. “I’m sure Madam Malkin would volunteer her sales slips if the Ministry asked, but if you haven’t pursued that particular avenue yet I will confirm that Lucius has spent some money on me. He has purchased a dress—or two—for me.”

The wizard gave Hermione’s hand a brief squeeze before sitting back in the couch. “Indeed. Would you mind explaining? The Ministry does want to keep track of these things, you understand.”

Seriously? The Ministry has nothing better to do? Or are you trying to prove to the Ministry how thorough you are? Or are you just a nosy bastard? Are you sizing up the competition?“ Lucius expressed a preference for dinner being a formal affair.” She looked critically at Severus’ own clothing. “Hopefully you have brought formal dress robes for dinner,” she commented. “I lacked anything appropriate, and Lucius has taken it upon himself to upgrade my wardrobe, as my own discretionary funds are a bit low. I believe if you check his spending he has also purchased a few comestibles to supplement the food readily available through house-elf magic.”

“Indeed,” the wizard replied non-committally. “Tell me, are you comfortable with Lucius purchasing your clothes?”

Hermione smiled. “Perfectly comfortable. He’s got much better taste than I do, and he seems to have an eye for feminine fashion. And he’s got a few more spare Galleons than I do. ”

The wizard processed this information for a moment before continuing. “How does Lucius spend his days?”

“You mean when he’s not drinking my liquor and buying me clothes?” she smirked.

“Yes,” Severus replied in a dry tone that reminded Hermione uncomfortably of her school days.

“He has his own rooms in a separate wing of the house, so I don’t have my eyes on him every moment of every day, but he swims an hour a day, he reads the Daily Prophet from cover to cover, he has convinced the house-elves to feed him, so he eats breakfast in the dining room, and he usually makes his way into the library before lunch. He has started to help me catalog the library, so we spend a couple of hours doing that, we both have lunch here, and he reads while I handle correspondence. We both get ready for dinner, have dinner, and then come back here for a while before I go to bed. I think he stays up later than I do. Once he gets more settled we’ll probably go see Draco a few times a week, like I did before Lucius arrived. That’s it. Welcome to the boring lives of the famous and criminally infamous.” She shrugged as she finished, uncertain if her response was what he was looking for.

Severus’ tone was still slightly acidic. “You own a home with literally hundreds of room, and you both spend most of your time in the library?”

Hermione arched a brow at him. “Would you expect anything less from me? I made it quite clear to the Minister I bought this house for the library. I’m like a third year in Honeydukes for the first time. This library has everything.” She paused, smiling. “The wine cellar was just an added bonus.”

“You are aware this property has a fully-equipped potions laboratory, are you not?”

“Er, yeah. Lucius mentioned it the other night. I haven’t actually checked it out yet, but I will soon,” she replied smoothly.

“Exactly how much of the Manor have you ‘checked out’, as you call it?”

Hermione felt a tad embarrassed. “I’ve probably been in half the rooms here.”

“So how can you be certain all the Dark Arts materials have been identified and removed? Are you simply relying on Lucius’ word?” Severus’ voice was full of reproach, and Hermione wondered if he was going to return to his previous rant about Lucius’ untrustworthiness.

“Of course not,” Hermione scoffed. “I’m relying on Dobby. House-elf magic, you know; it’s even better than using Sneakoscopes. The elves know everything, and they aren’t bound to silence. Dobby has gone through every room and identified all the Dark Arts objects. The Aurors retrieved them before I took official possession of the Manor. You should try talking to your house-elves sometime; it’s amazing what you can learn from them if you take the time to talk to them.”

“Hmph. Indeed.” Hermione sensed the wizard’s desire to say something else, as well as his struggle to remain aloof. “The Ministry would like me to make regular visits to the Manor. Not that they don’t have faith in your ability to control Lucius—through whatever means you choose,” he added with a smirk. “But there is a consensus that regular visits would benefit all parties.” He cleared his throat uncomfortably. “If, ah, you would be interested in continuing private tuition in potions, it would give me the opportunity to, ah, address two ravens at one time, so to speak.”

Hermione nodded soberly. First Severus offers dinner, and now he wants to come by the Manor once a week; either he doesn’t trust me with Lucius or he has his own, more personal designs. Or both. Still feeling a little uneasy over the early tenor of the conversation, she considered his offer for a moment longer. “Thank you. I would like that. However, I’m not sure I’m in a position to continue my study of potions at the moment.” She raised her hand to silence him. “While I paid a pittance for the Manor, it still took all of my savings. Other than a small stipend from the Ministry, I have no income. Certainly not enough to stock a potions laboratory,” she added, feeling her cheeks burn. “I, ah, am considering selling some duplicate items from the library, to, ah, put something other than dust in my bank vault, but that will take some time.”

Snape nodded, his lips pressed tightly together. “I understand. Perhaps I could, ah, supplement your laboratory supplies until such time as you are able to do so yourself. I shall plan on returning in a week, and perhaps then we can examine the laboratory and see what items you might need to get started.”

I have no idea how to take this man. One minute he’s lambasting me and the next he’s offering help.But “private tuition in potions” sounds interesting. She grinned inwardly, wondering briefly what Lucius would think of it, and then wondered why she was wondering what he thought.

“Thank you, I appreciate that,” she replied and Severus nodded and waved away her thanks.

“Hermione, I know I was a bit harsh concerning the situation with Lucius earlier, but understand, I’ve known him much longer than most other people in the Ministry. Lucius is not happy if he’s not stirring up trouble, and I’m just concerned he sees his newfound freedom as another opportunity to worm his way into good standing so he’ll be in a position to create more havoc.”

Wow. For someone who says he knows him, you don’t have a clue about Lucius, do you, Severus? “I understand your concerns, and believe me, if I see a hint of Lucius going sideways I’ll make sure the Ministry knows immediately. And again, don’t underestimate Dobby—he’s the best second set of eyes and ears the Ministry can have, and Lucius doesn’t even think about Dobby’s presence most of the time.”

“Very well, Hermione. You’re right. I will trust your judgment. But I still expect you to join me for dinner next week, and I will plan on scheduling potions lessons each week.”

Hermione nodded. “Fair enough.”

“Thank you again, Hermione. I look forward to our continuing interactions. And please don’t mind me if I spend the rest of the evening observing Lucius.”

The witch smiled. “I won’t mind.” Lucius might, but that’s between the two of you. “Please. Feel free to make yourself comfortable, and the elves will try to meet any of your reasonable demands.”

Severus inclined his head, a hint of a smile on his lips. “I’ll try to keep any demands ‘reasonable.’ Thank you. Perhaps Dobby can show me to my room? I’d like to freshen up before dinner.” Within moments the dark-haired wizard was heading out of the library and Hermione found herself breathing a sigh of relief.

~~~

A/N:

I've got a big chunk of story coming up; I broke it into three chapters, as it would have made for one ridiculously long chapter if I left it as is.. So, there should be two more chapters in the next several days. Thanks for the reviews; as for the prophecy, yeah, I'm kinda ignoring that. But we're not there yet! There is smut coming in the not-too distant future, but not SERIOUS smut (yet). Snape is interfering a bit (surprise, surprise). Also, I would like to profess my undying thanks to Mamacita-san for beta-ing this. Without her wicked editing skills, this would probably be unreadable! *grin* She is a goddess and deserves to be treated thusly!

Anyway, please read and review; reviews are food for the Muses! Enjoy, and thanks!
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The Kill Shot