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A World Not Fit To Live In	By : snowblind12 & Lissa Category: Harry Potter > Threesomes/Moresomes Views: 78125 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 6
Disclaimer: These characters and the Harry Potter world belong to J K Rowling and her publishers. I make nothing from this story and I own none of it. It is based off the work of JK Rowling.

Chapter List
- 12
- 13
- 14
A big thanks to all who review! Thanks to LissaDream for being such a brilliant co-writer and an even better friend! Love you :*
Chapter Thirteen
Tuesday evening, Lucius lay in bed, reflecting over the last couple days. Since Draco left on Sunday, with the exception of the Dark Lord's visit, Lucius had noticed a huge improvement in Hermione's demeanor. Lucius had returned to work today, so he had not been able to watch over her activities as he had the day before. However, Narcissa informed him the girl had spent most of today in the parlor, and because of it, the lady's parlor had never been so popular. Visitors from portraits all over the manor were popping in to hear the Mudblood who could play the piano. He was still waiting for the girl to admit her talent, but she had said nothing. Hermione had not mentioned anything during dinner about her time in the parlor and Lucius didn't want to bring it up, for fear she would think he was having Narcissa spy on her. He decided he might simply ask her to play something for him.
Lucius could feel the bond for the first time. He had not taken her since Sunday morning and the pull was starting to make him feel uneasy. Snape had warned him of this side effect. The need would continue to build and over time he would feel more anxious, and if he waited too long, his heart would start to pound. Apparently, this was a diluted version of what the captives felt on a day to basis, and he didn't like it. It was simply a mild uneasiness that had started around lunch time, but was slowly building. He would not delay much longer. He had wanted her to have a little reprieve while she was recovering from her emotional break down, but he was not keen to torture himself. Besides, he wanted her. He had been courteous and exercised restraint long enough. It was his right after all. She was his captive after all. Then why do you feel so guilty?
The pull of the bond woke Lucius in the wee hours of Wednesday morning. He tossed and turned for a bit, wanting to let her sleep for a while and wanting to rest more himself. Laying on his left side, he watched her as he willed sleep to overcome him again. His focus was drawn to her mouth when her soft, full lips parted with a shaky indrawn breath. Her eyes were moving behind her fluttering lashes and Lucius knew she was dreaming. His breathing paused when a faint whispered word fell from her lips, "Please." A second later, more words. "No, Harry, this way." Her words were slurred with sleep, but were becoming slightly louder. Her forehead was furrowed with worry and her breathing was accelerating. "No Harry! Ron, stop him!" Her voice became clearer and her small hand that was curled under her cheek began to twitch. "Harry, Ron…Nooooo!"
Suddenly her eyes shot open, but Lucius could tell she wasn't seeing by her glazed over expression.
He whispered, "It's all right, Hermione. You were dreaming."
He watched as consciousness crept over her face and her eyes began to focus. She moved her head back with a quick jerk and her body flinched when she found him so close and watching her. She quickly relaxed as she remembered where she was.
He watched her, and she watched him. Their eyes were on each other, but neither saying anything.
"Do you have nightmares often?" he murmured.
"I don't know," she replied. Her whisper was anguished, as though she were on the verge of tears.
"Do you want to talk about it?"
She swallowed. "Not really. It's a memory…a memory that I recall daily…multiple times throughout the day."
Lucius froze when Hermione slid closer to him, so that her face was curled into his chest. "Is this ok?" She asked her voice barely above a whisper.
After a stunned pause, he awkwardly patted her back. "It's fine." Within seconds her breathing was even from sleep. It felt so strange, this young woman – his captive – seeking comfort from him. It had been such a long time since he had held someone this way. He couldn't remember the last time anyone had touched him or sought any type of comfort from him. Not since Draco was a child, and that was only when his mother was not around. Narcissa touched him, certainly, but it was never like this. At least not for more years than he could remember. In truth, he had never encouraged it. Even his lovers over the years had been for physical release only. There had never been…tenderness.
He exhaled and closed his eyes, finding he didn't mind her face nestled into his chest. Nor did he mind when her hand curled up under her chin and felt cool against his overheated skin. Exhaustion began to claim him as her steady breathing washed over him.
Hair. Thick, unruly, soft, and fragrant. Across his cheeks, on his shoulders, cascading down his arms, his stomach.
Legs. One…thrown over his right thigh. The second…nestled between his own.
Arms. One…wrapped around his waist, holding him close. The second…resting on his left bicep.
Eyes, closed. Lips, soft and inviting. Cheeks, flushed.
This was what Lucius awoke to. He was completely enveloped by a sound asleep girl. She was draped across him and her leg that was over his thigh twitched slightly, causing a certain part of his anatomy to twitch as well. Her right cheek was nestled into his chest.
Lucius was equally surprised to find his right hand was splayed across her lower back and his other was cradling the back of her head, his fingers buried in her soft locks.
He didn't move, he merely pondered… How? How did we become so completely entwined?
He was warm, hot. He needed to move. As he straightened his leg clad thigh and pulled his hands away from her warmth, a desperate mewl escaped her lips. A warm breath blew across his chest. A soft moan followed as she began to stretch, rubbing up against him. Merlin.
He froze, fighting the impulse to simply take her…but he did not want to force her. He whispered. "Hermione, Princess, wake up."
"Mmm," was the only response he got.
And then a wiggle.
That was it. How much could a man take after all? He would have her.
Then she tensed. He realized his command must have kicked in the bond because she suddenly stilled, her head came up and her sleepy eyes met his.
She looked around and down, comprehending she had become a human blanket. She blushed as she rolled off him, to his right and onto her back. "Sorry," she whispered.
"It's quite alright,' he responded, his voice husky with need. He swallowed heavily.
After a moment, she whispered again. "It's ok. I know what you have to do."
And, oh he wanted to. Why did he feel guilty, though? He felt this tug of war in his mind. One side valiant and protective…wanting to simply take care of her. The other side, however, wanted to take her.
Hard.
Now.
Repeatedly.
It was the bond that gave him no choice. "Yes," he whispered. "It's time, but..."
Hermione sensed his hesitation and turned to him, seeing the concern in his eyes. "But?" she asked gently.
He glanced at the portraits and was thankful to find Abraxas gone. The others were sleeping. He swallowed. "I find myself feeling… guilty. I don't wish to cause you more…unrest, but this blasted bond is making me anxious. It will only get worse the longer we wait."
Lucius wasn't looking at her. He kept his eyes on the ceiling letting out short, calming exhalations, willing the pull to let up a bit. The controlled breathing was not helping. Her soft body next to him was definitely not helping. On top of that, her beautiful, caramel eyes boring into him with concern and understanding was making him feel sick with self-loathing. Merlin, just take her! What is wrong with you? You are Lucius Malfoy!
Just as he was about to make his move, she spoke. Her voice was soft and sympathetic, and it softened his resolve. "So, the bond, it affects you too?" She let out sigh. Her voice was small and resigned. "That means he'll be back…soon."
Lucius knew who 'he' was. Not wanting to discuss Draco, and frustrated by his lack of control over the situation, he replied with a touch of impatience. "I'm sorry. There just isn't much I can do about that. You are every bit as bound to him as to you are to me."
She couldn't contain the snap of bitterness. "Yes, I am perfectly aware, thank you."
Lucius understood her frustration, but he was currently more concerned with his own. Neither one said anything. As the silence dragged on he felt guiltier. He spoke softly, a pleading edge to his voice that matched his words. "Look, Hermione. I don't like…forcing you. We have been…good together…and I know it was at my command, but…well. We respond well together; do you think that we might find mutual enjoyment in this arrangement?"
Hermione didn't respond, and he thought she was shutting him out, distancing herself from him. He couldn't blame her. It was unfair of him to ask her to enjoy sleeping with someone she didn't really want to be was an absurd request, but then her words surprised him. Her tone was shy and hesitant. "When...when you are gentle, and kind, it's...I can pretend I want it. A couple of times, it was…almost nice."
Lucius noticed her glance around the room, focusing on the portraits and their occupants. He appreciated her caution when her whispered confession rattled the walls around his heart, once again. "Lucius, I just want to say that, well…I appreciate the kindness you have shown me. It's certainly not required of you and this could all be…so much worse." She paused and when he didn't stop her, she continued, "That first night, I thought you were a monster...I thought…"
Lucius turned to her abruptly, stunned by his own confession and the urgency with which he whispered it. "Hermione, that first night we were being watched. I behaved the way I was expected to act…and frankly, I didn't know you. I didn't…care about you. I was playing a part and doing my job." He looked back at the ceiling. After a short pause he added, "It would be…difficult to behave in such a way towards you now." He looked back at her. "I hope you understand that."
There was a brief pause where neither of them moved or spoke. Hermione tentatively moved her left hand over his right, looking back at the ceiling once again.
Lucius closed his eyes and let out a breath he didn't know he'd been holding. When her hand touched his, he felt a flood of relief. It was such a simple gesture on her part, yet it was a gesture that changed everything. He rolled onto his side facing her and she followed suit, rolling to face him. He kept his eyes on hers as he lifted her hand to his mouth and pressed a soft kiss to the back of it.
Her expression conveyed she was nervous, but he didn't see fear and he didn't see panic. His heart was starting to beat faster, only this time it wasn't from the bond. "Slip your gown off," he whispered, immediately tacking a "please" on the end as he gave her an apologetic smirk.
Hermione rolled her eyes but had a small smile on her face as she lifted the gown over her head.
His eyes ghosted down as her breasts became exposed. Her nipples were hard and her skin inviting. Her body below her waist was still under the covers and he was about to reach for her and pull her close when she moved.
Lucius was stunned when she lifted her hand to his chest. "Perhaps you could undress as well." Her voice was soft and shy, but her eyes were on his and had a twinkle. He couldn't help the small smile that crept over his mouth.
"With pleasure," he responded as he pulled his night shirt off and then slid his pajama bottoms down. He turned back to her. "Do you have any other requests?"
Her eyes breezed down his chest and back up. She grinned, "Well, you could give me a wand and a portkey to Paris."
He returned her smile. "Somehow, I don't think that would help my current predicament."
She shrugged. "Ah well, you asked."
"You are quite stunning when you smile," he said softly. The smile fell from her face as a flush crept over her. Her eyes were on his and her bottom lip was sucked into her mouth. "And you're irresistible when you blush," he added for good measure.
"Hmmm, you know flattery will get you nowhere you haven't already been."
He chuckled. "You are quite cheeky this morning."
Her smile turned a little sad. "I want to be happy."
His words were sincere. "I want you to be happy, Hermione. As happy as you can be."
"Well, that's the caveat isn't it? There's a limit."
Lucius closed his eyes and opened them. "You aren't the only one who feels that way. But we have to make the best of the situation, don't we?"
Hermione sighed heavily. Her eyes were on his as she announced with quiet conviction, "Yes, and that's why I've decided to find happiness where I can, and to accept what I can't change and stop to stop fighting battles I can't win."
Lucius paused, torn between what he wanted to say to her and what he wanted to do to her. His eyes trailed down her body and quickly decided action would win this battle. They could talk later about not losing her will to fight.
"How about you let me try to make you happy right now?"
"I believe that's why we are both naked," she replied with a cocked eyebrow.
Lucius chuckled as he reached forward and snaked an arm around her small waist, sliding her towards him easily. "I like this playful side of you." He ghosted his mouth up her neck and planted a soft kiss behind her right ear.
He pulled her closer when he felt her arms tentatively creep around his neck. When she nuzzled into his neck he let out a soft growl as his left hand lightly trailed down her back and over the soft skin of her bottom.
His left hand glossed to her right hip and his right moved to her left. She let out a squeal when he rolled her onto her back and shifted himself over her. "I will endeavor to make no commands, princess. If I forget, tell me."
Her soft brown eyes met his grey and after a moment, he couldn't help himself. He leaned in and kissed her gently. He felt her tense, her lips stiff and unyielding, and was about to pull back when suddenly her mouth relaxed. Lucius felt like purring when her hands lightly moved to the back of his head, threading softly through his locks and tentatively holding him close.
He trailed his tongue along her bottom lip, contemplating deepening the kiss, but instead found himself peppering her with light kisses down her neck, her chest and to her breasts. Her breasts were perfect in every way…soft, with pale rose nipples, and a perfect size. Not too voluminous and not too small. The perfect amount for his hand. His left hand moved to her right breast where he gently massaged the soft globe before lightly pinching her nipple, causing a delightful mewl to escape her mouth, an arching of her back and further hardening of both peaks.
His mouth latched on to her left breast where he kissed her tenderly before lightly moving the tip of his tongue over and around the ridges of her erect nipple. When she wiggled beneath him – clearly aroused – he teased, "Ah, ah, ah…if you move I'll have to give a command."
She let out a sigh and moved her hands to his shoulders. The feel of her hands moving down his arms and around to his back felt exquisite. Her movements were tentative, but he appreciated her initiative in exploring the planes and grooves of his shoulders, back, and arms. It had been a long time since he had been touched like this. Sex with Narcissa had become quite scripted and repetitive over the years. There was little caressing. He had not had a proper mistress in many years and the one-night encounters of his most recent years had been for release only…quickies where he took a more dominant role by taking the women fast and hard. He liked rough sex, but with Hermione, he felt a desire to nurture and take his time.
He moved his mouth to her stomach and then further down to her pubis, pleased to find a small, trimmed strip of curls. He liked women shaved bare, but not when they were only nineteen-years-old. He needed no more reminders she was a girl and barely a woman. His hands continued to massage her breasts as his mouth slid down her core. His tongue gently slid past her outer lips to the inner. Her sweet, musky scent was delicious, and he had to fight the urge to slide back up her body so that he could sink into her and fuck her hard.
He smiled and nibbled when she bucked her hips as he flicked her clit with his tongue. He pinched her nipples and smirked to himself when she quickly arched her back once again. He was already playing her like a well-known instrument.
"Do you like my mouth on you, Princess?" he asked softly with a touch of cockiness. He peeked up to find her eyes heavily lidded as they met his before letting her head fall back. Her mouth was in the shape of a soft 'o' and she let out a moan when he nibbled on her hard bud one more time. "I asked you a question. Don't you think it would be polite to answer?"
Her head was still tossed back, and she lifted it, cocking an eyebrow as she looked down at him. "I'm trying to decide. Keep going and I'll let you know."
He chuckled, enjoying her teasing response. He moved his hands from her breasts to her thighs, spreading her wide open. He moved his tongue with more pressure, this time starting lower, lightly trailing his tongue on her puckered rear entrance. He instantly regretted it when she tensed and tried to pull away, but his grip was too tight on her thighs for her to go anywhere. He pulled back and looked up, she looked panicked. "Please…not there."
"It's okay, princess. This is about pleasure, remember? I won't hurt you." He gave her a couple soft kisses on her inner thighs and was relieved when she slowly relaxed beneath him. Her head fell back on the pillow when he moved his mouth back to her pleasure point. He worked her mercilessly and, after a couple minutes, she was writhing beneath him. He could only assume she was near climax. He slid one and then two fingers into her warm, slick channel and when he curled his long fingers, pressing then into the spongy tissue he knew drove witches wild, he bit down gently on her clit, causing her to squeal spectacularly. Her walls clamped on his fingers and a small amount of liquid gushed around them with her release.
She was panting, heavily, clearly trying to regain her breath. He slowly moved back up her body, kissing his way up her stomach and back to her breasts. He moved further up and kissed her cheek. His cock was so hard that it was painful. When he slid into her it felt like she was made for him. Sex with her had been good, but this morning it was spectacular. Hermione being a willing participant made all the difference in the world. She moaned, and her legs automatically wrapped around his lower back. Her hips began to rock with his of their own accord and her hands gripped his biceps fiercely.
He was towering over her and when he looked down at her, her eyes locked with his. "Are you okay?" He asked as he continued to rock his hips against hers.
She nodded and tentatively pressed up and kissed his mouth. He returned her tender gesture and nibbled her lower lip, eliciting softs moans that pushed him over the edge. One, two, three more thrusts and then he tensed letting out a growl as he came.
When he caught his breath, he looked down at her, surprised to find her expression slightly disappointed. "What is it, princess. Did I hurt you?"
"No…no. It's just..."
When she hesitated, he became impatient. "Tell me."
She looked up at him, crossly. "I thought you weren't going to make commands."
"Well, when you don't answer my question, and I need an answer, you leave me no choice."
Unable to resist the bond, the answer spilled out of her lips before he even finished speaking. "I was about to come when you…when you stopped."
What? "You mean just now? While I was…penetrating you?"
Hermione rolled her eyes. "Yes, while you were…just now."
Lucius was stunned. He didn't say anything and after a minute a huge smile crossed his face. "Hmmm, it seems, my dear, you and I are more compatible than I realized. I've never made a woman orgasm from penetration." He rolled off her, stunned.
Hermione looked at him with confusion. "I don't understand."
Lucius sighed and ran his hands over his face and then through his hair. "What I mean is, I've only ever given an orgasm through clitoral stimulation or with penetration of my fingers. I've never accomplished that feat…during intercourse."
He suddenly felt a tinge of embarrassment. Why did you just admit that?
Hermione cocked an eyebrow once again. "Well, it's not the first time you did this to me. Perhaps the other women were close as well, but it just…"
Lucius turned to her, smiling. "I did this to you before?"
"Yes, and it's rather frustrating if you must know."
Lucius chuckled. "Oh, my little princess, you are simply full of surprises." He leaned over her again, and ran his left hand down her body and between her legs. "Allow me to remedy that deficiency promptly."
Hermione let the hot water run over her. As she stood under the powerful spray, her eyes closed and put her hands over them to protect them. It had been a…nice morning. Unexpected. She had meant what she said to Lucius. She really did want to try and make the best of her situation. Truthfully, she was slowly coming around to Lucius Malfoy, but admitting this (even to herself) made her uncomfortable. The man was a long-standing Death Eater. He was not a good man. He was not a noble man. He was a rapist, an opportunist, and likely a murderer, as well. He had crucio'd her mere days earlier.
However, he was also kind, and attentive, and considerate and (it pained her to admit this), she enjoyed sex with him. At least this morning she did.
He simply wasn't panning out to be what she thought he was. The more she got to know him, the more she realized all she had known of him was an outside persona – an act. He certainly wasn't what she would have expected. He had been surprising her since that first night. That first night he had been horrid, but she had noticed (even then) flashes of what seemed like regret or discomfort with what was happening. At the time she had not been able to identify it, but looking back (and after hearing his explanation) she believed what he had told her. He was doing what he had been told to do. Of course, that really didn't make it any better. He didn't have to be a Death Eater, after all. He didn't have to support the evilest monster that ever lived. He could have said no. He could have let her go. He could have stood up to his master.
Hermione knew Lucius Malfoy would never say no to Lord Voldemort, though. It was his greatest weakness and it was why she knew it wasn't safe to completely trust him. However, she did truly believe the man wanted to help her within the confines of his ability. He was tender, and he didn't want to physically harm her, and he didn't want Draco to harm her either. Lucius was the closest thing she had to a savior in this new world and she would grasp on to that and hang on for dear life.
After her shower, Hermione met Lucius for breakfast in the dining hall. The older Malfoy was absorbed with his morning paper, although she caught him shoot glances at her over his paper occasionally. He handed her the social section and the funnies. She was longing to read the real news, but Lucius simply folded those sections and set them aside, not including them in her allowed reading.
He sipped his tea and put down his cup, studying her for a moment. "You look lovely today, Hermione." He looked at her kindly, his eyes soft and on her own. She noticed that lately he spent less time looking at her body during conversation and more time looking at her face and her eyes. It was an observation that she had not acknowledged until this moment.
"Thank you, sir." Hermione noticed Abraxas was in a different portrait this morning, sitting behind Lucius. She wondered if this was by design and kept her response formal.
A slightly confused look on Lucius' face gave way to understanding when he noticed her gaze move from the portraits behind him to his face and back again.
His tone was more formal. "So, today you will limit your activities to your suite, the library, the lady's parlor, and the pool. You will not swim without Tinny's presence."
Hermione internally rejoiced with visions of the day ahead of her. She kept her face serious and slightly downtrodden as though the restrictions were a disappointment and a burden. "Yes, sir."
He stood abruptly. "You will dress appropriately for guests this evening, Miss Granger. Your former professor and his charge will be joining us to dine."
Hermione felt excitement bubble up inside her and to fight the squeal that wanted to erupt like champagne out of a just popped bottle. "Yes, sir," she responded, her voice slightly choked.
Lucius slightly cocked an eyebrow, noticing the subtle change in her. "Behave, Miss Granger. I shall return mid-afternoon."
After Lucius left for work, Hermione once again found herself wandering to the lady's parlor. She found it odd that she was preferring the parlor to the library, but she was really enjoying the airiness and lightness that the room provided. It felt like a room from a fairytale. Not to mention it held that piano, which simply called to her.
She stepped into the welcoming room, surprised to find the portraits all full. Some of them even held more than one occupant. She glanced around at the faces that were starting to become familiar, even though she didn't know their names. They were all women and judging by their attire, she could guess some of the portraits dated back many centuries. There was even a portrait in the corner, where the woman wore a crown and a gown that screamed royalty. She made her way to the sofa, lightly caressing the piano lovingly as she passed by.
She sat down, kicking off her shoes and tucking her feet up underneath her as she picked up her book off the end table.
Hermione heard a scoff of disapproval from one of the portraits. She looked to her side, finding it was the same portrait that always glared at her disdainfully. It was a dark and foreboding portrait, depicting a severe looking, older woman dressed in black.
Hermione was stunned when she heard the voice of Narcissa Malfoy seemingly come to her defense. "Ediva, really. The girl is not in company. She is alone, and her feet are clean. Did you never want to kick off your shoes and curl up with a good book in your day?"
The voice that responded was haughty and sneering in nature. "She is a Mudblood and should have no rights to the lady's parlor! Much less should she be removing her shoes in a public room. She is not in her…quarters. This room has been the receiving room and parlor for centuries of Malfoy matriarchs. It's offensive that she has been given use of this room."
Narcissa's kind voice spoke loudly. "Ignore Ediva, Miss Granger."
Hermione turned around to study the portrait that housed the most recent Lady Malfoy.
"Allow me to properly introduce myself, Miss Granger. I am Narcissa."
Hermione stood and faced the portrait. She didn't mean for her words to sound so sharp. "Yes, we've met. In this house, a few months ago. Your sister crucio'd me as you stood and watched."
"Impudent, ungrateful," Ediva's portrait exclaimed with indignation.
Narcissa's voice was yielding and apologetic. "Yes, I ... feel badly about that. I regret my inaction." Neither Hermione nor Narcissa said anything. Narcissa continued after a pause, the other portraits moving their gazes between the two witches with curiosity. "Our lives were in danger, Miss Granger … my husband's and my son's. One day, if you have children, you will understand. There is nothing you won't do for them."
Hermione found it shocking that anyone could love Draco Malfoy, and she couldn't help but wonder what type of woman raises a son who turns out so hateful. As Hermione studied Narcissa's portrait, however, she saw nothing but truth and a touch of sadness in the woman's eyes. Hermione found she believed Narcissa's sincerity. What would be the purpose for Narcissa to lie at this point?
Hermione's stance softened and in turn, Narcissa spoke again. "I am so pleased you are in use of this room, Miss Granger. It is far too lovely not to be enjoyed."
Hermione offered a slight, hesitant smile at the woman's kindness. "Thank you, I find the lightness to be … comforting. The piano is also quite … therapeutic."
"You play beautifully." A different voice spoke softly. The voice came from a kind-faced, blonde witch, dressed in rather contemporary robes.
There were gasps form several portraits as all eyes turned to the witch whom had just spoken for the first time in a decade. Narcissa's jaw fell open and then she smiled, looking from the portrait to Hermione and back. "Willow! How lovely to hear your voice after all these years!"
Hermione looked at Lucius' mother's portrait. The woman was looking at Hermione with such kindness and obvious approval.
"Your lack of internal metronome is your only fault. I will try to help you with that, if you'll let me."
Hermione swallowed heavily, thrilled to have a chance to learn more. She quickly glanced at the whispering portraits around her before looking back at Willow. "I would be honored for your assistance."
Narcissa watched in amazement. Willow Malfoy had barely said anything in the twenty years since her death and she had not spoken at all for the past ten of those years.
Willow's tone became confident as did her portrait. Hermione noticed her sit up taller as she gazed from Hermione to the piano. "No time like the present, Miss Granger. Do some warm up scales and we will begin."
Lucius arrived home earlier than expected, only an hour after lunch. Hermione was not in her chambers and not in the library. He walked into the lady's parlor, finding the girl curled up in a ball, sleeping on the sofa. There was a book in a heap on the floor, it was apparent she had fallen asleep while reading.
She looked so young and peaceful when she slept.
He stepped further into the room, glancing at the many portraits that all seemed to be napping as well. Looking at Hermione, he thought about how much had changed over the course of her time at the manor. That first night he would not have imagined a time would come where he would have allowed her into this room, much less into his heart. He would have never believed he would grow to care for the girl, in any capacity.
He thought back to that first night and the hope she'd had that he would release her. He remembered the longing in her eyes. She had wanted them to be better wizards than they were, and not rape her. Her pleading words, those expressive eyes bright with courage and the wish that his humanity would render her safe.
It had been, of course, beyond his control. He had played his part well with his crude and lecherous behavior. A lot of his act had been for his audience, but part of it had been for his need to dehumanize her and to distance himself from the task at hand. She was a Mudblood, and while that certainly helped him justify his actions, she was also practically a child. Despite her unfortunate heritage, he couldn't help but see her as an innocent. She had been a virgin, no less, which only increased his disgust with the whole situation.
When he had taken her, when he had stolen her innocence, it had made him physically ill. Lucius had not expected to react in such a way, but it was those damned eyes. He had ignored the pleas of many victims in his checkered past, for words really had no effect on his resolve. This had been different, however, and that damn mirror gave him no choice. Not to mention his father's portrait, which had enjoyed the show with leering eyes.
As soon as the act was finished, Lucius had put on a cold mask of indifference and quickly made his way to his bathroom where he could be alone and regain his bearings. A splash of cold water on his face helped. After only a couple minutes, he was able to get his mindset back in the game enough to return to the bedroom and ignore the outrageous display his son was bestowing. Her cries and humiliation were tuned out completely as he set about performing some mindless tasks about his suite – picking up his robes, putting some books away, contemplating a Ministry meeting the next day. That was, until Draco had yelled out Lucius had given Hermione her first orgasm ever. He had never been so horrified by a statement in his life. The girl had never known any sexual attention? Even from her own hand? It was almost unbelievable, and the sick feeling returned, and he struggled to blot out the rest of her humiliation.
His ability to ignore what was going on around him only deteriorated from there. The abuse his son inflicted on the girl had started out simply as a shock – but now? The thought of his son harming the girl was infuriating.
Hermione was correct this morning – Draco would be back, and soon. The bond would give him no choice. Having company tonight would hopefully distract them both from that disturbing inevitability.
Deciding to let her sleep, Lucius crept out of the room and headed for his chambers, not aware of his wife who was watching him with knowing eyes.
Upon entering his suite, Lucius emptied his pockets. Grabbing his book, he planned to head back down to his study until it was time to dress for dinner.
"Lucius, darling."
Lucius' eyes shot up to his wife's portrait. "Narcissa, flower. How are you today?"
"I am quite well, thank you." He smiled at her and made to leave his room, but she spoke again, causing him to pause. "The Muggle-born girl is proving to be a welcome addition to the manor. She provided the ladies with hours of entertainment on the piano today. Despite being Muggle-born, most of them are warming to her and are accepting her presence. I must admit, she has a certain charm and flare about her."
Narcissa contemplated mentioning the astounding verbosity of Willow. Ultimately, it was a concern that it would not continue, however. To save Lucius from subsequent disappointment, if that were the case, Narcissa kept quiet. Willow's death had been devastating for Lucius. He had lost his mother at a tender young age and a vulnerable time in his life. For all his claims that it was a good thing his mother never spoke, Narcissa knew it tore him up inside that Willow's portrait was such a shell of her former self. Lucius had even wondered if the charm had not worked properly, rendering her without the ability to speak. She'd spoken some random thoughts over the years, though, which made Lucius believe she was silent by choice.
Narcissa was determined not to treat Draco the same way. She spoke to him daily when he was in the manor, and even though he didn't respond, or even look her, she knew he heard her. The boy was grieving, and he was angry at her for leaving him. One day he would forgive her.
Narcissa's focus moved back to Lucius when he spoke.
Lucius sighed heavily, frustrated that Hermione had not yet opened to him about the piano. "Well, I am pleased she has proved to be … entertaining."
"Lu, what is it? You have not been yourself of late. Is it still the Muggle-born girl? Are you still fighting your physical desire for her? Still feeling guilty about her age?"
Lucius swallowed and looked up at his wife. "I am … adjusting. It is becoming more palatable." That was all he would share for now. There was no need to disclose to his wife he was developing feelings for the girl, even if they were simply feelings of concern for her well-being and a desire to see her happy and safe.
Narcissa watched the wheels spin in her husband's head. She knew him so much better than he gave her credit for. When in the world was he going to admit he was falling for the girl.
Narcissa had always made a slightly late arrival when they entertained guests, wanting to make a grand entrance. She had been beautiful, but she had also been vain. She had relished the adoration and attention an entrance delivered just the right way would inspire. The simple truth was, men and women both had found Narcissa captivating and charming, so she had gotten away with it. Lucius had hated it, however, finding it rude and clearly obvious as to what she was doing.
Therefore, when Lucius checked on Hermione approximately twenty minutes before their guests were to arrive, he was pleased to find her dressed and ready. Her gown was beautiful and she looked radiant.
Hermione felt a blush heat her cheeks when Lucius took a long moment to take in her appearance, his eyes raking up and down her body. When Tinny dressed her this evening, she had found herself imagining his reaction. The dress was simple, but elegant and sexy as well. It was a floor length black number that hugged her curves to her hips and had a short train. The special part of it, however, was that it was of a choker collar design that left her shoulders and back bare. The collar portion of the dress was studded in aurora borealis crystals that caught every flicker of candle light. There was an oblong cut out from just under the collar to just between her breasts that gave a hint of cleavage. She felt … well, she felt bloody gorgeous, and Lucius' actual reaction far surpassed her imagination.
After a few moments of heated silence, he cleared his throat. "You look very lovely, Miss Granger," his tone was a bit rough and she felt a smile pull at one corner of her lips.
"Thank you, Mr. Malfoy," she answered demurely, dropping her gaze in her modesty. She grabbed the black lace shrug that Tinny had suggested for extra warmth and slipped it on.
"Come, we need to be downstairs when they arrive." Lucius held his hand out to her and when she softly took it, he felt warmth flush over him. He looked at her, noticing a slight flush to her complexion, and wondered if she had felt it as well.
They had only been in the study for a moment before Bilby announced the arrival of Severus Snape and Ginevra Weasley.
While the first few minutes had been awkward, the four became a bit more comfortable by the time Bilby served the drinks.
This time, Ginny was instructed by Severus to sit on the sofa, next to Hermione, while the men sat in the matching wing-back chairs closer to the mantle. Hermione and Ginny sat quietly as, once again, the conversation between the men turned to Voldemort and politics.
Hermione looked at her friend and whispered, "Ginny, how are you?"
Ginny smiled softly at Hermione. "I'm well...I'm…happy." Her words were hesitant, as though she were ashamed.
Hermione was surprised. Happy with Snape?
Hermione smiled in return, looking curiously and discreetly at her former professor. In truth he looked … good. His color had improved, and he was no longer so pallid. He had a pleasant expression, his constant scowl gone. He laughed at something Lucius had just said, which Hermione had entirely missed.
She looked at Lucius, finding him laughing as well. It was surreal, she bound to Lucius and Ginny to Snape. Looking back at Ginny, Hermione's jaw fell when she saw how Ginny was looking at Snape. Hermione had only ever seen Ginny look at one other wizard with that gleam in her eyes – and that had been Harry. Ginny was in love with Snape?
Hermione sipped her drink, slightly shaken. How could Ginny feel this way? Towards Snape? The man who was responsible for this disgusting bond. The man who played both sides in the war, simply to save his own skin. He clearly didn't really care that the light lost.
Don't be a hypocrite, Hermione. Her own internal scolding brought her up short.
No, it's not the same. I'm only trying to make the best of a deplorable situation. I'm not falling for Lucius Malfoy, for Merlin's sake!
Hermione suddenly felt tense and uncomfortable. It was the same way lying to herself always made her feel. Am I lying? She looked at Lucius, and found his eyes on her, watching her curiously. It was as though he were trying to read her mind. She knew he wasn't, she had been on the receiving end of his Legilimens and she knew what that felt like. Lucius looked away as he said something to Snape that she tuned out, still too lost in her own musings.
She was brought out of those musings when a soft hand draped over her own. She looked at Ginny, who was looking at her with concern. Ginny whispered, "Are you alright? You look pale."
Hermione smiled reassuringly at her friend. "I'm perfectly well, I'm just hungry and this wine is going to my head, that's all."
"Well, how about you? Are things better?" Ginny glanced over Hermione's face, clearly looking for evidence of more of the abuse that had been littered on Hermione's face during the last visit.
"Yes, Ginny. Much better. Please don't worry about me. I'm happy that you're happy."
Ginny's eyes welled slightly. "I miss… I miss…"
Hermione looked at her friend knowingly. "I know you do. I miss them all, as well. Your family, Harry and Ron … our friends."
Ginny nodded, conveying that Hermione said it perfectly.
Hermione sighed. "We have to make the best of what life gives us, Gin."
"What are you lovely ladies talking about over there?" Hermione looked at Lucius, finding his expression to be soft but curious.
Deciding a touch of honesty in this façade of a get-together was necessary, Hermione responded. "We were discussing how we missed our family and friends and how we find that we are lucky to be alive and safe and together." Okay, so maybe she embellished their conversation a tad, but it was what she was feeling and it needed to be said. She and Ginny were captives, but they were alive, and they were safe … at least for now.
Snape grinned and lifted his glass to her. "Spoken like a true Hufflepuff."
Hermione lifted her brow. "Or, perhaps we were discussing the locations of your wands, and the proximity of the door or the floo."
Snape laughed. "Ah, that's more like the Gryffindor spirit."
Hermione cut him a deviant glance. "And then, determining there was risk to ourselves and a chance of failure or death, we ceased all our scheming." After a brief pause, she added, "Wouldn't want to leave Slytherin out of the mix, now would we?"
Lucius let out a bark of a laugh. "Now, now, princess, there's no need to goad a viper. Use your head."
Hermione looked at Lucius. "Hmm, a touch of Ravenclaw from one of the greenest snakes I've ever met."
Ginny was staring at Hermione with a shocked expression, wonder in her eyes and her jaw practically in her lap.
"How doo you put up with her?" Snape asked Lucius with amusement.
Lucius grinned and looked back at Hermione, wondering if another witty response would fall from her lips.
Hermione looked from Snape to Ginny. "So, Ginny, is it true our dear former professor…"
Lucius wasn't sure if he was disappointed or relieved when Billy popped into the room. "Dinner is served," the elf announced, bowing so low his nose practically touched the ground.
A moment's pause had Snape and Hermione watching each other before he smiled as he stood. He held his arm out. "Allow me, Miss Granger." Hermione smiled and accepted his olive branch.
Lucius stood, offering his arm to Ginny and the four of them entered the dining room.
Hermione had to admit, the Malfoys knew how to entertain. The table was set beautifully. A white linen table cloth draped the table to the floor. A statement arrangement of all white flowers drew the eyes to the center of the table. White roses, lily's, orchids, gladiolus, and tulips – as well as others Hermione didn't recognize – filled a large crystal bowl. The crystal bowl was larger than a punch bowl with several white beta fish swimming amongst the visible green stems. Black candles in a variety of heights littered the table. Their flames, when added to the dimly lit wall sconces, created dancing shadows throughout the room. A bright moon was visible through the windows, and added to the dramatic look. Hermione caught her own reflection in the mirror and found the sparkling crystals on the collar of her dress as well as the flowing, black material blended with the evenings table design beautifully. She secretly wondered if this was something Tinny had done on purpose. Perhaps this was something Narcissa had required of the elf.
The table had been downsized so it was merely huge and not gargantuan. The men held out the chairs for their companions so that they sat across from each other and then the men followed suit.
An appetizer of chilled oysters on the shell was followed by an entrée of chicken and scallops in champagne butter with delicious roasted carrots and asparagus.
Lucius watched Hermione's eyes light when she noticed the scallops and her obvious enjoyment of her dinner was a delight. Snape seemed to be of the same mindset where the Weasley girl was concerned. The gentlemen allowed the girls to talk freely during dinner. It should not have surprised Lucius when Hermione inquired how the Hogwarts house elves were faring. She took a particular interest in an elf named Kreacher. Lucius vaguely remembered Draco had spoken years ago of her obsession with freeing house elves.
She had just put the last bite of a scallop in her smiling mouth – after responding to a teasing Ginny – when Draco stormed into the room, obviously furious for God only knew why. "Sorry to interrupt your little party," he sneered.
Dress:
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A World Not Fit To Live In