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Beyond the Pale	By : goldhorse Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Draco/Hermione Views: 81362 -:- Recommendations : 11 -:- Currently Reading : 17
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, JK Rowling does, lucky woman. I make no money from this, which is probably why I'm poor as a church mouse.

Chapter List
- 10
- 11
- 12
“Hey Mione, want to play quidditch?” Ron asked too loudly across the table. “You can be the referee.”

Hermione winced, his voice grating on her nerves which had been shot the past few days. She’d gone home with her father after her run from Malfoy the other night and kept a vigil over Nancy. It was only when Melody asked if she wanted her to send her apologies to the Burrow that she was able to tear herself away. She arrived to see a very agitated Remus pacing a path in the grass in front of the Burrow. He demanded to know what she thought she was doing before Severus practically filleted him with words about how he was ever the hypocritical Gryffindor.

“No thanks Ron. I thought I might contact my mother. She’s been worried about me.”

It was the truth, in a way. Melody had been on edge about her leaving during Nancy’s turning and Hermione was torn. It had been four days. The darkness should have started to make its move by now. Nancy didn’t even have that much to change, already an adult with no injuries to speak of. They’d told her that Severus would fetch her through the floo when the time came. As the time passed…much too slowly for her liking, she took to hovering in the family room. She read there and had even convinced Molly to allow her to take her meals there. It was much easier to vanish food when no one was around.

“But she ought to know you’re safe here,” Ron argued.

“Ronald!” Molly snapped. “As a mother, I can understand Hermione’s mum’s fears. No matter how safe your children are, you still worry about them. Now dear, feel free to use our owl.”

“Oh, thank you Mrs. Weasley,” Hermione said softly. “But I thought I might try the cellphone. It is ever so much quicker and she’ll relax if she can hear my voice.”

“Of course dear,” Molly said indulgently before waving her wand and clearing the breakfast dishes.

Hermione trudged back to the living room while everyone else filed outside…everyone but Harry. He leaned against the door jamb and only moved when the house was completely empty. He sat down beside Hermione, allowing her to curl up in his lap. She’d learned that the collar would cut off his scent immediately and she could feel the sense of connection she wanted. Harry was okay with it as well, now that he knew she wasn’t going to jump him.

“Mione, you know muggle technology doesn’t work inside magical wards right?” Harry asked cautiously.

“Of course,” Hermione giggled. “But my vampire mother is also a witch so it would stand to reason she’d use the floo…which is why I’m here.”

Harry frowned into her hair. “Shouldn’t you have gone to feed yesterday?”

Hermione nodded. “Severus was called. It’s okay really. I’ll make it another day or two as long as I have my collar and the twins’ inventions.”

“Good on them again,” Harry chuckle but sobered quickly. “Hermione, you haven’t been the same since you came back last time. Is everything alright?”

Hermione shook her head. She hadn’t told Harry anything about Remus or her mate, mostly because they never seemed to be alone. There was always someone in the house, whether it was the Weasleys or Remus or his godfather, there was never time. Remus had been stiff and very formal with her since she’d returned. It had caused her to sink into a depression at the thought of losing a connection.

Her mate was another issue entirely. Instead of saying anything to her, berating her for her harsh words and hasty exit or asking questions, he simply sat. They never said another word to one another, favoring silent support for Nancy than addressing their many problems. It was…almost peaceful. There was no anger or hostility radiating from him and she felt no fear either. It was a welcome change at any rate and she was happy with it. Still, she was sure that telling Harry his enemy was her mate wouldn’t go over that well.

“What is it then?” Harry asked.

Hermione sighed sadly. “Remus knows.”

Harry tensed. “I take it that’s not good.”

“We’re natural enemies Harry. I could care less what he is but his instincts tell him to become defensive.”

“Wouldn’t your instincts do the same then?”

Hermione nodded. “I catch myself trying to blow up at him a lot actually. I just fight it down.”

“Why can’t he?”

“Because he’s sure that I’ve lost my soul and I can’t tell him any different. You see, werewolves' souls are cursed, but vampires are lost…except for me and my kind.”

“Speaking of your kind,” Harry said softly. “Did you discuss our theories with Snape?”

Hermione sighed. “Professor Snape agreed that they had merit. He’s going to try and see if he can find out anything else about it. It could be that you're right but You-Know-Who abandoned the project when there were no results.”

“I hope so,” Harry breathed.

They sat in companionable silence for a while but it was starting to wear on Hermione’s nerves. She needed to keep her brain busy. “So, how is life with Sirius?”

“It’s brilliant!” Harry said excitedly. Since his godfather’s return, he’d been able to spend nights at Grimmauld place and floo over to spend his days with the Weasleys. It gave Sirius a change of scenery and kept Harry in touch with his friends.

Hermione listed happily as Harry described his ability to use magic as long as Sirius was around and looked at her agog when she giggled and told him it was indeed nice. He questioned her sanity when she didn’t start reciting rules but then quickly realized that she didn’t particularly care for the rules anymore.

The door to the living room cracked open revealing a very disturbed Remus. “Harry! What are you doing? Get her off of you!”

“Absolutely not,” Harry said softly. “She’s fine where she is.”

“No she’s not! She needs to get away from you.”

“Or what?” Hermione hissed.

Harry sighed. “Hermione, calm down!”

Hermione winced as she felt the order hit her in the chest. Harry was a dominant alright. At least he only ordered her around when it was for her own good. It wouldn’t be very helpful if she were to attack Remus. Instead, she grumbled out a ‘yes sir’ and snuggled deeper into his chest.

“Harry!” Remus said in shock. “You don’t know…”

Harry looked the werewolf straight in the eye. “I bloody well do know Remus and if this is the way you’re going to treat my best friend then…well, then you aren’t the person I thought you were.”

“You know?” Remus asked softly.

“Of course I ruddy know,” Harry said gruffly. “She’s still the same Hermione, Remus. She’s just a bit…clingy now.”

“Hey!” Hermione huffed indignantly.

“Well, you are,” Harry said laughingly. “I swear, sometimes I’m not sure I’m not more of a duvet to you than a friend.”

“Harry James Potter!” Hermione snapped. “How could you think that?”

Harry grinned. “Well, I guess I’m also a pillow.”

Hermione growled. “I have half a mind to throw you in the river…from ten feet up.”

“Cool,” Harry shot back.

“How are you okay with this?” Remus interrupted their banter.

“Simple,” Harry said softly. “She is still her. I can see it and feel it. She didn’t deserve to be cursed just as you didn’t. She’s learning to control it as you have. She needs support, not accusations and a cold shoulder. I thought you would know that.”

Remus growled in frustration. “How can I put this in words you understand? I only turn once a month and she-“

“I’m a monster all the time,” Hermione said flatly.

“You aren’t a bloody monster and that’s that,” Harry growled. “Remus, she’s pierced her tongue, is taking synthetics, and wears a collar that blocks her senses so she stays under control. What more do you want her to do?”

“She still kills to eat,” Remus said softly.

“I do not!” Hermione screamed as she leapt from Harry’s lap. “I’ll have you know I’ve never killed a single person in my life, before or after my turning. I can feed just fine without harming my prey. I don’t even feed from magical blood. What more do you want from me? I can’t just give it up.”

Remus stared at her for a while, shock clear on his face before he finally regained his bearings. “You don’t kill?”

“Of course not,” Hermione said hotly. “I begged the professor not to let me and he didn’t. He took me to the foulest smelling place on the planet just to curb my appetite and then I was able to back off myself without hurting anyone. I can’t be something I’m not Remus. This is my lot and I’ve learned to accept it. Why can’t you?”

Before Remus could reply, Severus’s head popped in the floo. “Miss Granger, it’s time.”

“Oh gosh!” Hermione said in fear. “I’ll be right there.”

“Where are you going?” Remus asked.

Hermione shook her head sadly. “Do you have to ask?”

Remus narrowed his eyes. “Why Severus?”

Hermione smirked. “Do you know anyone else with a penchant for the Dark Arts, dark creatures, and experimental potions?”

“Suppose not,” Remus muttered.

“Harry, I don’t know how long I’ll be. Can you-“

“Sure thing Mione. I’ll just tell them you wanted some alone time.”

“Thanks!” Hermione said before she planted a happy kiss on his cheek and rushed through the floo, uttering the name under her breath so they wouldn’t know where she was going.

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Nancy was screaming at the top of her lungs when Hermione stepped through the floo. She didn’t hesitate, running full out up the stairs and skidded to a stop just inside the door. Everyone was already there taking up their positions. Alex had tears in his eyes, pleading with her not to succumb.

“Nancy, darling,” Alex croaked. “You can’t give in. You asked me what happened if you lost the fight and I…refused to say anything. I was an asshole. I’ll tell you now Nancy, if only you’ll fight. Promise me you’ll listen to the entire story…you won’t even consider the darkness until I’m done. Please? Please love. Answer me if you can.”

“ALEX!” Nancy screamed, her body arching in pain before it fell back down with a thud. “I-I’ll listen.”

“Good sweetheart. Hermione’s here now my love. She’s here just like she promised. Stay with me love, stay with me.”

“I’ll stay,” Nancy croaked.

Hermione took the opportunity to move to the foot of the bed. Draco already had his hands running up and down her calves, lending his silent support so she took up a vigil with him. She only wished there were more people there to help her fight.

“Where to start, my love,” Alex said softly. “I suppose I should start with the night I found you and go backwards. I knew you were my mate the second I smelled you and I just had to find you. You see, I made a promise to a very special young woman that when I found my mate I would claim them. I came across her just weeks after Melody and Severus were turned. She had been viciously brutalized and was seconds from death. I thought that since the turn had worked out so well for both of my children, I could do it again and save this tragically beautiful girl’s life.”

Nancy let out a small whimper but whispered for him to continue.

“Her name was Elizabeth, but she preferred Lizzy. She had just celebrated her eighteenth birthday and stumbled drunkenly into the wrong alley. She was…too beaten down to resist the darkness, though she fought a good fight. She lost her soul four days after she lost her innocence. I…I was beside myself, knowing she’d lost but I refused to leave her. She was still my child.

“I took her to the coven knowing she’d need their skills to survive. The first year is always the hardest, learning when dawn approaches, how to hide if you get caught during the day, avoiding silver, all the things I never had to learn. They were all quite taken with her. She begged me to claim her but I refused. I wanted her to find her true mate, to have a bit of happiness in the dark. I was a fool. “

“Why?” Nancy rasped. Her body was shivering from the effort it took to listen but it seemed that the effort was making all the difference.

“When Melody and Severus met the coven at the end of her seventh year, I realized my mistake. Zander always wanted Melody and when he couldn’t have her, he forcefully took my Lizzy. She was a very weak sub, unable to resist most orders despite my desperate attempts to teach her. He…broke her…piece by piece until she was only an obedient shell. Severus was not joking when he said that Hermione needed to learn to resist.”

“I resisted,” Hermione said softly, thankful now for all her training and she said so.

Alex nodded his head sadly. “I didn’t want my grandchild to suffer the same fate. Anyway, Lizzy continued on in that state for ten years. You see, you have to return to the coven every decade. When Severus and Melody returned, Zander grew jealous of them. He said he would have been the better mate and Melody, as only she can, emasculated him verbally.”

Melody chuckled bitterly. “I have Severus to thank for my sharp tongue. I only wish it did physical damage as well.”

Alex hummed softly. “I do too. Zander was…angered…to say the least. He ordered Lizzy to defend him and she couldn’t. He had to order her to repeat every phrase he said, which only served to embarrass him further…and she paid dearly. Coven laws state you can’t interfere between mates, less you be destroyed for insubordination. We all watched helplessly as he punished her, only breaths away from death. When he was done, I took her hunting, as I had always done when he hurt her. You see, as her father, I could care for her even if I couldn’t stop him.”

“Was she okay?” Nancy asked softly before she wailed in pain. They all whispered encouraging words, momentarily forgetting the story as they helped her work through the attack from the darkness. When she settled down into whimpers, Alex cleared his throat.

“Would you like to hear the rest Nancy?”

“Yes.”

“Then hold on for me my love. Hold on and I’ll tell you the end…and the beginning. Can you do that?”

“For you,” Nancy whispered.

Hermione felt tears spring to her eyes. They truly loved each other. She could only hope to one day find someone like that, and then her bleak reality came crashing in on her. She would never find love like that. She had a mate…and he didn’t love her. Draco gave her an odd look before sighing and rubbing his chest. She hadn’t hurt him, had she? Alex’s voice caught her attention.

“Lizzy hit her breaking point that night, the first and only time she killed when drinking. That was when she knew she’d turned into one of them, a heartless killer, and she was finished. She made me promise her two things that night, on my soul, the one thing she didn’t have. First, she wanted me to find my mate and claim her. She didn’t want another person to end up like her. ‘Don’t let her go,’ she said. ‘I love you Alex. It’s time to find someone for you to love as well.’ Then she made me swear that I would walk her out into the sunlight. I balked but she insisted.”

“S-she died?” Hermione couldn’t stop the question from coming out.

“She did,” Alex said softly. “You see, she could have never done it herself. Vampire instincts wouldn’t allow her to commit suicide so she found a way around it. If I held her, ordered her to stay, she would obey and override her nature. It was…the most horrible thing I’ve ever had to watch, even worse than her being viciously beaten and used by that bastard Zander. She cursed me even as she praised me, at war with herself over her demise. Her last words were, ‘claim her Alex.’

“So you see, I almost backed out of my promise. I couldn’t stand to see another person go into the darkness. When I saw my grandchild, how hard she fought and how well she learned, I was given hope. I’m sure right now you’d wish the worst on me, but if you fight this you can thank her. She gave me the strength to approach you. I’ll claim you Nancy, as soon after your first feeding as I can. I’ll never leave you. Ever. That I can promise you. Just fight darling, fight as hard as you can.”

Nancy cried late into the night, finally entering a screaming match with the darkness around three in the morning before she passed out. The light enveloped her body, chasing the darkness away forever. Everyone in the room breathed a sigh of relief, thankful that the darkness couldn’t claim yet another soul.

“You two need to eat,” Melody said softly. “Come on, we’ll go see if Francis has a few friends down at the pub.”

The quartet quickly and quietly made quick work of four burly men from out of town before strolling through the streets. Alex’s story had shaken Hermione to the core and she was thankful for the reprieve. How close had she come to ending up like Lizzy? If she would have succumbed to Zander, there would have been nothing Alex or Severus could have done. She would have begged them to kill her as well, understanding the torture that Lizzy wanted to stop.

She’d only changed for Harry in the first place. If her task was gone, what purpose did she have? None. She couldn’t help but be forever grateful for whatever possessed Draco to fight for her that night. There was no doubt that Alex would have been destroyed if Draco hadn’t held Lysander back. That was another hurdle that she couldn’t help as words sprung from her mouth.

“Lysander,” she croaked. “Where is he?”

Severus sighed heavily. “I spoke with the other covens who say that he is around, watching and waiting for his chance to destroy Alex. My house is quite safe for now and Nancy will remain forever safe once Alex claims her. He’ll no longer be violating the rules and Lysander will have no choice but to let it go.”

“Why follow him?” Draco has asked the question that was buzzing through her mind. “Zander fell easily enough.”

Severus frowned. “Because he is the leader. Coven leaders have a few things going for them. Number one, they have sired the most children in the coven and have the most support. Number two, they are normally the oldest and most dominant, able to reasonably control other dominants, like a hierarchy in the animal kingdom. It’s an instinct to follow the leader as well, one that’s hard to turn off. Number three, they have allies. Lysander does have a weakness there. He is quickly losing favor with other covens. The others have become…more liberal in their laws. They don’t mind dalliances with mortals, as long as no one is caught. Forced matings are also starting to become a thing of the past, frowned on by those who were turned in an era where others seek their true love and not a prearranged marriage. Forced matings are something Lysander seems to relish.”

“No kidding,” Hermione said darkly, rubbing the back of her head in memory of what had happened.

Severus smirked at her. “As the children of Alex, we are on a feebler leash than others, something Lysander hates with a passion. He was not turned with Lysander’s venom but rather from simply consuming blood. No venom during turning negated some of the instincts. Since you two had the venom completely sucked from your bodies, you have also inherited the ability to resist him. Consequently, he has alerted the other covens to our presence. They, however, are annoyed that he is unable to keep his coven in line…and even more so that he is raising such hell over a forced mating.”

“But Zander is dead,” Hermione said softly. “He even said that he was glad Zander was gone.”

“Yes, but then he saw you,” Severus said softly. “And he saw how strong you were, how easily you resisted Zander, how you stared your proposer in the eyes without fear. He also is aware of how powerful you are. He believes that with you by his side, he is invincible…and he’ll have a tighter leash on the only known vampire who can withstand light.”

“But we all can,” Draco argued. “Even the others can surely see that.”

Severus quirked an eyebrow. “Do you know of one that is out in the day to confirm this?”

Draco snorted. “Suppose not.”

“Precisely,” Severus said. “This doesn’t sit well with the covens either. Of course, they are concerned about Hermione, but a great deal more so about Lysander. He’s gotten a taste of ruling larger covens, having taken over a few others recently, and he has let slip his ambitions to expand his reign. Hermione is his greatest prize and I expect he will make his move soon.”

“Why hasn’t he already?” Hermione asked. “Now would be the perfect time. Alex won’t leave Nancy alone and we’re in the middle of the bloody street.”

“What makes you think we are alone?” Severus asked.

“I can’t smell anyone.” Hermione argued.

“We aren’t the only magical vampires around either,” Severus countered. “I have put up a privacy charm around us but they can still track us. Lysander knows this. When he attacks, they will be ready but it will ultimately need to be us who destroys him.”

“Why?” Draco asked.

“When a coven leader is destroyed, whoever takes him out is the new leader. Lysander has single handedly killed several coven leaders and amassed their vampires as well. If they were to take him out, we would be subject to their laws, some of which I am not very fond of.” Severus’s face was set in a deep scowl.

“Like?” Draco asked tersely.

“Like giving up your wand, for instance. They believe no one should have that much power, and in a way they are right. However, they also agree with taking what they want by force if necessary. Petty crimes and espionage for clout isn’t something I want a part of.”

“And if we took Lysander out?” Draco asked softly.

“If we were to win, we could form our own coven, disperse the others to their own devices, and make our own laws. Smaller covens are actually appreciated more, since they pose no real threat. The other covens here would support it whole heartedly.”

“So what are we waiting for?” Draco asked.

“Use your head Draco. If we try to fight Lysander, he can make a play for Hermione. Because she is unclaimed, we have to bow to his ruling. We’ll be severely hurt if we try to interfere with a mating.”

“Why didn’t he try to claim me that night then? Why turn Draco?” Hermione asked softly.

“Because he was outnumbered with silver in the picture…and because he truly thought Draco wouldn’t survive the turning.”

“Why not?” Draco asked.

“The growth,” Hermione whispered. “Some vampires can age to death.”

Severus nodded. “He didn’t realize that magical beings are stronger than muggles. He tried to kill two birds with one stone. Destroying your mate would put you in a vulnerable position and he could get away cleanly.”

“Bet he’s kicking himself now,” Draco said with a smirk but it quickly left his face. “We should get back home.”

“I have to go to the Burrow,” Hermione said softly. “Harry can only cover for me for so long.”

“Potter knows ?” Draco couldn’t help but sneer. “How did he take it then?”

Hermione narrowed her eyes in anger. “He was shocked, but he accepted me for who I am. He even defended me against Remus.”

“The werewolf?” Draco asked in shock.

“Yes the bloody werewolf,” Hermione hissed.

“Stop,” Severus barked and motioned for them to walk on. “Perhaps the Gryffindor Golden Boy can talk some sense into Lupin. After all, he is a monster himself.”

“Yes, but only during the full moon,” Hermione said bitterly. “I’m a monster all the time.”

“You are not!” Draco shouted.

Hermione gave him a syrupy smile. “That’s what Harry said.” She grinned when it shut him up and then turned to her father. “Have you found anything out about You-Know-Who and the vampires?”

Severus nodded. “I tracked down the coven your attacker came from. His mate actually offered herself to me she was so happy to be released…to which Melody promptly slapped her down.”

Hermione giggled at Melody’s mumbled ‘damn straight’ and pushed on. “So was he acting on his own behalf?”

“Most definitely not. He had been banned from creating any more vampires several years ago after he went on a turning spree. Laws here state you only turn your mates. More numbers are harder to hide. Anyway, his mate said he disappeared two weeks before Melody killed him, going on and on about a new alliance and a new age for vampires. None of the others knew what or whom he was talking about.”

“Does that mean that it was only an experiment?” Hermione asked hopefully.

“I think so,” Severus said softly. “I can only dig so far without arousing suspicions when I’m called. I was able to mesmerize Bella. If anyone was informed of it, she would be. What I got were hazy images of the vampire speaking with the Dark Lord. The woman is a top rate occlumens but under the influence, I can crack her. Unfortunately, she shook it off too quickly for me to confirm anything. Any longer and she would have realized what I am.”

“So with him gone,” Hermione thought aloud, “do you think he’ll try to find another vampire to continue?”

“I’m not sure,” Severus said uncomfortably. “The covens, especially ones who are muggle, are leery of letting him close. He hasn’t exactly kept his agenda secret. The magical vampires don’t want any part of the war. They saw the destruction and setbacks the first war caused for our kind and aren’t anxious for a repeat.”

“But that doesn’t mean he won’t try,” Draco said softly.

Melody cleared her throat. “Which is why I’ll be patrolling the forest this year. There will also be extra wards set up, ones that have spells based in sunlight for protection, since Remus is sensitive to silver and will be stationed as a guard at the school.”

“It isn’t much,” Severus admitted. “But it’s the most we can do until we know more.”

Hermione nodded. “Thank you for that. No one should have to suffer through the turn…or lose their soul.”

They reached Spinner’s End some time later, Alex’s worried muttering welcoming them home. Hermione was about to go and say hi but was caught by her hand. Draco motioned for her to go outside with him. Curious, but no longer afraid, she followed. Draco was silent for a while before he suddenly transfigured their clothing into swimwear and pulled her in the water with him. They swam for a few minutes while he obviously categorized his thoughts.

“Does swimming help you clear your mind as well?” Draco asked her after a while.

“Yes actually,” she answered softly. “When I first turned, I’d come here because I couldn’t meditate. I’m still pants at it but the water is soothing.”

Draco chuckled. “You would be pants at shutting that formidable mind of yours down.”

Hermione sunk down in shock, spluttering a bit when she emerged. “Did –did you just pay me a compliment?”

“Possibly,” Draco smirked but it faded quickly. “Granger, why did you run?”

Hermione turned away from him. “You hate me. I’m a mudblood.”

Draco snorted and spun her around. “And your blood saved my life. Since I woke up, I’ve been nothing but angry at myself for treating you so badly. Look, I might have been a first class prat before, but…you gave me a second chance at life. Why? Why would you when you knew what I’d been ordered to do?”

Hermione closed her eyes, refusing to look at him. “Everyone deserves a second chance, Malfoy.”

“No, it was more than that. Damn it, Granger…Hermione…look at me.”

Hermione was hard pressed not to obey. She really didn’t want to do this anymore. Her senses were going insane and she was thankful for the water because it masked her arousal. She wanted him so badly but his emotions were making her stomach hurt they were so varied. Cautiously, she peaked up at him from under her lashes and was instantly taken by the silvery orbs.

“Please hear me out Hermione. Just this once and I promise I won’t push you anymore. I’ve been wearing a mask since I was little. I’m not the person you think I am. I honestly don’t give a toss about blood. If blood was so important then my father would be better than Severus, a half blood. He’s bloody brilliant, stronger than my father in every way imaginable, being a vampire aside. Even in school, Severus trumped him in everything but social interactions.

“If that wasn’t enough to convince me, then seeing you was. You can kick my arse in everything except quidditch. If your blood was dirty, then why wasn’t it brown when you bled? I saw that you know, the first time you cut your finger in potions. Your blood was as red as mine. I’ve always admired you Hermione. You might have annoyed the fuck out of me, but I appreciated your brilliant mind. Is it so hard to believe that I would be taken with you when I saw you in the alley?”

Hermione snorted. “You were taken with a charm.”

“That I knew about,” Draco countered. “I knew it wasn’t the real Rain, well, the normal Rain in any instance, the second I saw you. You just felt…amazing…and you were railing about how you were a control freak and didn’t want to be submissive. I was instantly intrigued. Despite how I normally act, I don’t like doormats. You had fire and I wanted it.”

“And then you shoved me against the door when you figured out who I was,” Hermione bit out angrily.

Draco closed his eyes and sighed. “I am ashamed at myself. It was just such a shock. My brain couldn’t comprehend that the meek yet fiery girl I’d met at the alley was you, the one person I could never have.”

Hermione tilted her head in contemplation. Could that be true? Did she dare believe it? “Why did you try to fight for me?”

He gave her a genuine smile and brought his hand up to caress her cheek. “Because I wanted you to be mine. You are my mate Hermione. Somehow, even then, I knew that. When Zander backhanded you, I just…snapped. I couldn’t stand the thought of him touching you, much less harming you in any way.”

Hermione could see the sincerity in his eyes, feel it in his emotions, and smell it coming from him. If that wasn’t enough, he was caressing her face in such a soft and soothing manor that she couldn’t stop her eyes from fluttering shut in pleasure. This was what she had been craving, true affection. Soft pressure on her lips had her gasping in shock. He was kissing her, so softly and sweetly she wanted to cry. He pulled back after a few moments leaving her aching at the departure.

“I won’t let Lysander have you,” he whispered, his lips brushing against hers with every word. “I make my proclamation to you now Hermione. I want you for my mate. I will claim you if you’ll have me.”

“Draco, you understand what that means right?” Hermione asked. “If you claim me, I’m bloody well claiming you back. You’ll have to accept that…and the fact that you’ll never be able to be with anyone else ever again…or at least until I die. You’ll be stuck with me…forever.”

He chuckled. “Only you would think of this in terms of my comfort. But in answer to your questions, yes, I fully understand what a claiming involves. We make a declaration to each other...until death do us part. Eternity is a long time Hermione. I hope you’re ready to put up with me.”

She could only smile at his antics but couldn’t help it when her face fell. “You don’t love me.”

“But I could,” Draco countered. “I know I could never hate you. Trust me, I’ve tried. I know I admire you and I know I want you…in every way possible. I also know that your time is limited. There is no telling when Lysander will try and stake his claim over you and I wish to avoid that. We can learn to love Hermione. Many arranged marriages start with less and some come to care a great deal for one another, my parents aside.”

“What if we end up like your parents?” Hermione whispered.

“Then I’ll kill myself,” Draco growled. “I will not be like my father. If you end up like my mother…well, let’s just say that her harsh demeanor is very much an act as well. You offered me sanctuary Hermione, even as I burned and whimpered like a coward. Will you still offer it now?”

“Of course,” Hermione gasped. “Does this mean you aren’t going to try and carry out your orders?”

Draco pursed his lips. “It means…I am considering which would be more beneficial to the war. If I were to carry out his orders, then I can become a spy. I can help the Order win…and defeat the Dark Lord once and for all.”

“And if you were to turn your back on him?”

“I would be a marked man. I’d have to hide. It wouldn’t be a benefit to anyone, but I wouldn’t be a murderer.”

Hermione nodded. “At least we could be together.”

Draco pulled back, his eyes alight with joy. “So you’ll do it? You’ll accept my claim?”

Hermione closed her eyes and thought of all the reasons she shouldn’t accept. Blood was obviously out, since they didn’t have the same kind anymore. There were her friends, but they would get over it eventually. There was the possibility of this being a trick, but she would sense that. Besides, if they were mated, it would hurt him if he were to turn on her. She believed him though, whole heartedly. Still, they hardly knew each other. What if, after they were mated, they ended up hating each other worse? What if they didn’t?

All the reasons why she should surfaced then. First and foremost, they were mates. She could feel it. The only other person she would have considered, Ron, smelled of sugar biscuits and treacle tart. He was also a submissive, as she felt no need to obey him. Then there was Lysander. Draco was right. If she didn’t accept his claiming, she was vulnerable to not only Lysander, but other covens as well. There was still one more problem to clear up though.

“Draco, if I do this, I’m not turning my back on my friends. I will fight with Harry to the death. We will win this war and our freedom from You-Know-Who. I’ll not compromise on it.”

Draco frowned but nodded all the same. “I suppose I would accept no less, but if I decide to become a spy, I don’t want you to condemn me for it.”

Hermione’s breath hitched at the thought. “I couldn’t Draco, but I would be worried for your safety. Being a spy is dangerous.”

“Don’t I know it?” Draco said with a grin. “So, yes?”

“Draco, we hardly know each other. I mean, there is so much animosity between us. We’ll be stuck together. No one can know until after the war. I-I want to disappear afterwards. I’m not sure that anyone except for Harry would accept me as a vampire…and it gets hard to hide after a while. I couldn’t stick around while everyone died. Would you be okay with that? You-you’ll never have children Draco. The Malfoy line will end with you.”

Draco scoffed. “It ends with me regardless, unless Lucius suddenly decides to become fertile and have another child. He’d still have to convince my mother on that as well. No, it’s better it ends with me. Hermione, I’d disappear with you now if you’d like. I have nothing left to tie me here. I’m sure my mother would go into hiding…perhaps America, somewhere the Dark Lord hasn’t touched yet.”

Hermione shook her head. “I’m not leaving until after the war.”

“Then I’ll stay,” Draco said with a shrug. “Hermione, I really think this will work. We have eternity to get to know each other. I know we’ll be good together.”

“How do you know that?” she asked softly.

“Can’t you feel it?” he whispered and set his hand over her heart. “It’s right here. If you think about it, we’ve always been attracted to each other.”

“Absolutely not,” she snorted.

Draco chuckled. “So you go around hitting everyone you don’t like? What about in the library that night before the end of school. You didn’t even fight.”

Hermione closed her eyes in pain. “That was the night I was turned. I was…depressed and…I just wanted some peace.”

Draco coaxed her to open her eyes with gentle fingertips. “I’m sorry Hermione. I had no idea I was the last person to see you as a human. For what it’s worth, I wanted you that night. You…you looked so broken. It was upsetting to see the fire gone from your eyes. You were the one person I could count on to make me feel alive again without risking my life and…you yielded. I wanted to fix you again…hurt whoever it was that took your light away. I suppose it’s rubbish-“

“No!” Hermione rushed. “I-I knew there was something different about you that night. You…you didn’t…there was no heat behind your insults. You looked angry but not because I was there, because I wouldn’t fight with you. I-I thought about you…right before I was bitten. He had hair the color of the moon. It looked just like yours.”

Draco gave her a gentle smile. “See? We’ll be good together.” He kissed her ear lobe and then trailed his lips across her jaw bone. Tiny kisses covered the expanse of her throat before he drew a hot tongue down her neck. “Can’t you feel this?”

Hermione’s breath hitched. “It’s the smell.”

“And more,” Draco murmured, his voice going straight to her pussy. “Feel. Just feel.”

She was about to ask him what he meant when she felt his fingers at her quim. How had he slid them inside her bathing suit without her knowledge? All thoughts of pushing him away were thrust out of her head when he affixed his lips over hers and pushed one long digit into her already wet hole. A moan escaped her lips and was swallowed by his mouth, his tongue taking the opportunity to slide inside and map her. She let him, too far gone already to fight. It felt so right in that moment, his fingers thrusting gently inside her. His mouth devoured her.

This was what she had wanted, to be consumed totally. And Draco was consuming her. He seemed to anticipate her every want, quirking his fingers just so and applying more pressure where she needed it. She felt his hard length against her thigh as he rocked himself back and forth against her. Her back was rubbing against the side of the pool but she hardly cared. This was…exquisite. The muscles were tensing in her body, ready for the release she had so desperately sought for the last month and a half.

Draco pulled back and looked her straight in her lust filled eyes. “Come for me Hermione. Let go and feel how good we are together.”

At that moment, he rubbed his thumb ever so gently against her clit. She couldn’t take it anymore. Her body seized in bliss as hot white pleasure took over her body. She barely registered his frantic thrust against her or his tortured cry when he spilled himself inside his speedo. All that was left was hazy bliss. She desperately wanted to meditate but she couldn’t. There was so much more to do.

“See Hermione,” Draco panted after a few minutes of blessed silence. “We’re perfect together. Imagine how much better we’ll get. What do you say?”

Hermione couldn’t deny that, that had been the best experience of her life. It could only get better. There would probably be a lot of fights, misunderstandings, and tons of talking to work out their relationship but they definitely had chemistry. That was the best she could possibly hope for under the circumstances. She squeezed her eyes shut and took the plunge.

“Yes.”

Draco’s shout startled her. He was whooping and laughing, apparently having had a huge weight lifted from his shoulders. Suddenly, she was in the air, cradled in his arms before they fell back into the pool with a hearty splash. They played around for a while until they heard Nancy whimper again.

“It’s time for you to go back, Hermione,” Melody said when they entered the room.

“Right,” Hermione sighed. “They’ll string Harry up if he lies anymore.”

“But!” Draco spluttered. “You just agreed!”

“Draco,” Severus said softly to garner the boy’s attention. “She’ll be safe behind the wards at the Burrow. Lysander can’t track her beyond them. I made sure of it. I’ll go get her at dusk and you two can claim each other then. There is not enough time to do so now. I’m afraid the venom will render you both insatiable and loopy.”

Draco pinched the bridge of his nose. “I don’t want to wait!”

Severus smirked. “I’m sure neither of you does, if the smell is anything to go by. However, duty calls. Besides, you can both read up on the claiming ceremony beforehand. Now, shall we?”

Hermione nodded. She gave Draco a hug and a lingering kiss before she bid everyone goodbye. She made sure to speak to Nancy as well. Then she was grabbed by her father and felt the tumbling squeeze of apparition.”

“Why not use the floo?” Hermione croaked when the touched down.

Severus smirked at her discomfort. “Because only Potter and Lupin know you left that way…and there are other eyes that are probably awake now.”

Hermione nodded and started off at a brisk walk for the Burrow. When she was in sight, Severus gave her a quick hug and ushered her on. She zipped up as fast as she could, turning into mist and seeping through the doorway just in case anyone was up. Molly was cooking breakfast so she drifted upstairs into Harry and Ron’s room. Ron was still snoring but Harry was pacing. She took pity and materialized on his bed.

“Hermione!” Harry whispered happily. “Everything okay?”

Hermione grinned back. “You know what, Harry? I think it will be!”

AN: Good gravy! Short one tonight guys. Sorry. I'm exhausted. Family emergencies never happen when it is convenient do they? Anyway, you guys are brilliant. I probably read each and every one of your reviews ten times over. Keep them coming and let me know how I'm doing and if you find any errors. Until next time...love you guys.

*guiltypleasure- if you are reading this one, on the links for Letting Go and Moving On, copy and paste and take out the spaces. It should get you there. I could'nt find your email address. Sorry!
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Beyond the Pale