Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

Accidental Blood Bond	By : onecelestialbeing Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Lucius/Hermione Views: 45434 -:- Recommendations : 4 -:- Currently Reading : 16
Disclaimer: I own nothing from Harry Potter, no characters no magic, none of the story and I make no money from this!!

Chapter List
- 18
- 19
- 20
“So, Hermione, have you got everything sorted yet for the baby?” Tonks asked, sprawled out in the armchair in Hermione's bedroom. Tonks had been on the way to visit Snape to pick up Remus’ Wolfsbane potion when she sent Hermione an owl, asking if she minded a quick visit.

“I think so,” she answered. “Even if I hadn’t- I’ve been confined to my bed for the last month, and it’s not as if Lucius would have let me even move much less think about sorting out any last minute things.”

Hermione was thrilled to hear from Tonks, as she had last seen her at her wedding. Lucius had been hovering over her all morning, refusing to leave Hermione’s side even though he had an important meeting scheduled. Hermione repeatedly told her husband to go, that she would be fine, but he ignored her protests. Only when Tonks’ owl delivered her message, did Hermione show Lucius the hastily scrawled writing on parchment, explaining that the purple-haired witch was perfectly able to contact him if needed.

Lucius only capitulated when Hermione reminded him that Tonks was an Auror, as well as a mother, and would know what to do if she happened to go into labour. “All right,” he grumbled, giving Hermione a short kiss. “I don’t need to remind you that you’re supposed to stay in bed, or on the chaise. Have Tipy bring anything you need, and Hermione, send for me if you need to. You know I don’t like leaving you alone in the house.

“Lucius!” she snapped. “I won’t be alone; you have three house-elves here, and Tonks should be here any minute!” Just as she finished her statement, a small knock came from her bedroom door, and Tipsy pushed it open, revealing not a purple, but blue-haired Tonks.

“Wotcher, Hermione! Hello, Mr. Malfoy,” she cheerfully greeted as she tripped into the room. “Whoops-sorry,” she told the house-elf when she nearly landed on her.

“Tonks!” Hermione laughed from her place in bed. “Come sit down before you hurt someone, including yourself.”

“I know,” she despondently agreed. “I still can’t seem to shake off this clumsiness.”

“Mrs. Lupin,” Lucius curtly greeted, offering a leather glove encased hand. “My wife-“ he paused to glance at Hermione, “is insisting that I attend less than pressing matters at the moment. However, no matter how trivial she tells you something is, please do not hesitate to owl me.”

“Sure thing, Mr. Malfoy,” Tonks kindly replied, watching as Lucius kissed his wife goodbye.

“He’s been like that ever since…well since finding out that I was pregnant!” Hermione told her with a slight frown. “Multiply that by five after I experienced false labour.”

“Remus was the same,” Tonks said, nodding her head. “I could barely go to the loo without him trailing behind me. It wasn’t until I threw my bra at him that he let me pee in peace.”

Hermione giggled at the thought of Tonks throwing her bra at ther former professor. “Tonks, that isn’t nice!”

The blue-haired witch gave a nonchalant shrug, shifting to dangle both legs over the rolled arm of her chair. “Oh, Mr. Malfoy won’t mind if Snape brings me Remus’ potion here, will he? Snape said he was in the middle of something and wouldn’t be available until half hour or so.”

“No, he won’t mind,” Hermione answered. “Severus is almost always over here. We all have dinner together quite often.”

“He’s much friendlier than before,” Tonks mused. “Whatever witch tickled his wand properly; I’m forever grateful to. All right, give me a moment; I’ll go send Snape a Floo call to let him know that I’m here.”

“Sure,” Hermione replied, watching as Tonks darted out of her bedroom. Quietly wincing, she shifted the pillow behind her in an attempt to get comfortable. Her back had been aching since the night before, the pains slightly subsiding when Lucius gave her one of his patented massages.

“Hey, why the long face?” Tonks queried when she returned.

“My back; it’s killing me,” Hermione winced, reaching around to futilely rub the afflicted area.

“Hermione, you’re killing me, twisting round with that big belly,” Tonks grimaced, watching the unwieldly witch turning about in place. “Lay on your left side; it’s more comfortable.”

“It’s rude if I’m talking to you and facing the window at the same time.”

“Honestly, you are far too polite to be nine months pregnant and uncomfortable,” Tonks remarked, sitting on the bed next to Hermione, deftly rubbing into her lower back with surprisingly strong hands. “You should be using this time to fuss and cry and moan, ordering everyone about with unreasonable requests- like Muggle dishes from the states!”

“Does that mean you’re going to Apparate there to bring me…I don’t know…pizza?” Hermione asked with a muffled laugh, relaxing when Tonks’ fingers dug into the sweep of her spine.

“You know, Remus and I actually considered Apparating there once,” Tonks cheerfully replied. “Maybe we should, one day. I’m always up for seeing new places.”

“I’d love to go traveling once this child is born,” Hermione mumbled, her eyes partially open and focused on the afternoon sun pouring in through her window.

“I can’t wait to find out if you’re having a little witch or wizard,” the blue-haired witch trilled happily. “Have you picked out any names yet?”

“Well, we’re supposedly having a girl, according to a witch we’d met on our honeymoon,” she replied. “I was looking at an adorable blue romper, when the shop owner took it and handed me a dress. She then told me I was having a girl.”

“Has your Healer confirmed it yet?”

“No…I didn’t bother with asking. I figure we can still keep the element of surprise since it hasn’t actually been confirmed.”

Murmuring her agreement, Tonks turned around when a small rapping came from the bedroom door. Taking her hands off Hermione’s back, she rose from the bed and crossed over to the door. “Master Snape is here for you,” Tipsy announced.

“Thank you,” she told the little house-elf. “Damn; Snape came faster than I expected,” Tonks swore. “I have to take Remus his potion straight away, but Mr. Malfoy will kill me if I leave you alone.”

“Tonks, go; I’ll be fine,” Hermione urged, feeling the need to nap after having her back rubbed. “I’ll have Tipsy get Lucius if I need. Besides, all I’m allowed to do is lie here, and he did say that he wouldn’t be long.”

“Hmm…if you say so,” she dubiously replied. “Maybe I’ll just take this to Remus and pop back over.”

“Tonks, really, I’m all right,” Hermione reassured. “Thank you for rubbing my back. It nearly put me to sleep; in fact, I’ll stay right here and nap.”

“Fine, Hermione,” Tonks conceded, bending down to give her a one-armed hug. “But you’d better owl me if you need to. And stay in bed!”

“I will, I promise,” Hermione told her, curling up on her side and drifting off to sleep, missing the sound of her bedroom door being closed.

Hermione awoke a few hours later to the same throbbing in her lower back. Her abdomen was also sporadically tightening, causing her to gasp at the unfamiliar sensation. Shifting to lie on her back, Hermione found the position supremely uncomfortable, and sat back up, swinging her legs down over the edge of the bed. Taking a deep breath, she heavily got to her feet, using both hands to press against the thrumming ache in her back.

Remembering how a hot bath helped before, Hermione disrobed and went into her bathroom. Immediately growing disenchanted at the low-seated bathtub, she opted for a shower, in which she was able to sit down on the marble bench inside the glass enclosed area.

Ten minutes later, Hermione stepped out of the shower, feeling marginally better. She directed one of the showerheads to blast hot water onto her back, its heat somewhat quelling the ache in her muscles. Now standing completely nude in front of a full-length mirror, Hermione placed one hand on her hardened belly. Lora had examined her a few days before, explaining that the baby dropped and Hermione would be ready to deliver any day now.

It was no wonder that Lucius was apprehensive about leaving her side. Hermione didn’t feel out of sorts, save for her aching back and feet, something she suspected that she had to deal with until the baby was born. Her belly suddenly tightened noticeably beneath her hand, causing Hermione to inhale sharply.

That’s odd, she thought, frowning at her disheveled reflection. Her still damp and tangled hair soon became the last thing on her mind. When the uncomfortable feeling ebbed, Hermione found a nightgown to put on, dismissive of that fact that it was still early in the afternoon.

Forgoing shoes, Hermione slowly made her way out of the bedroom, tightly holding onto the banister as she walked downstairs. She found that standing somewhat alleviated her discomfort, and opted for a short stroll in the gardens.

“Madam Malfoy,” she heard a deep voice utter when she rounded the corner.

“Oh-hello, Severus,” Hermione greeted with a slight frown. “Have you met with Tonks already, or did something happen?”

“Mrs. Lupin took her leave a while ago,” he answered, gallantly offering his arm for Hermione to hold on to, seemingly unfazed by her unusual appearance. “She was distraught about leaving you alone but had to go; I offered to stay until Lucius returned.”

“I know; Wolsfbane loses its potency if the drinker waits too long to consume it,” she gritted out, hunching over slightly when she experienced another pang. When it was over, Hermione uprighted herself, finding Severus raptly eyeing her. She had been so distracted; it escaped her notice that the normally buttoned-up headmaster was now wearing a deep grey, lightweight knit jumper and black trousers. Uncurling her fingers from around his forearm with a muttered apology, Hermione took in his appearance.

“You own clothing other than dour black suits?” she jested, pushing her hair back over her shoulder.

“So it seems,” Severus wryly replied, keeping his arm out for Hermione to grasp. “Does your husband know that you’re in labour?”

“What?” No I’m not,” she protested. “The last time I went through something like this; it hurt more. I think I would know if I was.”

“If you say so,” he replied, obviously dismissive of her statement. “Either way, Lucius will surely want to be kept apprised. Are you able to wait here for a moment whilst I contact him?”

Hermione nodded her head and allowed Severus to help her down into a chair. Watching as he disappeared out of view, Hermione let out the moan that she had been holding back. She was still bent over, fighting to keep her breathing steady when Severus quietly walked back into the room.

“Lucius should be along shortly,” he reported. “Is there anyone else you would like me to send for, another woman perhaps? Molly?”

“No!” Hermione hastily replied, her loud tone piquing Severus’ curiosity. “No-if anyone it would be Ginny or Tonks, but Ginny has Quidditch practice and Tonks is with Remus. Please don’t tell her I said so, but right now I cannot deal with Molly’s shrill voice. My nerves are already on edge as it is.”

Severus looked as if he was fighting back a laugh, yet kept a somewhat straight face. “Very well,” he replied, helping Hermione up from her chair. “What would you like me do to?”

“If you can help me out to the garden; I’d be forever grateful. I’d like to walk for a bit.”

“Are you allowed to be out of bed?”

“Goodness, Severus, you’re as bad as Lucius. Yes, I can get out of bed, so long as I don’t overextend myself. If I walk slowly I should be all right.”

Nodding curtly, Severus took his time leading Hermione out into the back of the manor.

Lucius was inwardly berating himself when he received Severus’ owl. Swearing for not following his instincts, he growled and snapped at everyone that happened across his path, until he was finally able to Disapparate out of view. Upon returning home, he found his wife-barefoot and in a lace-edged nightgown-holding, onto Severus’ arm as the two slowly made their way through the garden. His albino peacocks had even sought interest in the two figures ambling along the greenery, and were cautiously following their footsteps.

“Lucius!” Hermione cried out when she saw her ruffled-looking blond wizard. “What happened to you?” His usually neat queue had nearly come undone, its ribbon untied and the loose ends flapping about as he strode over. Lucius hadn’t bothered with putting on his traveling cloak, and the material was carelessly slung over his shoulder.

“I think I should be asking you the same thing,” he replied after greeting Severus. “Why didn’t you say that you were feeling poorly this morning?”

“Will you stop making such a fuss? My back hurts, and it wasn’t until after taking a shower that I noticed that my belly felt tight. Other than that, I’m fine.” No sooner than Hermione uttered her proclamation, she felt a flash of wetness soaking the seat of her knickers, some of the liquid trailing down her legs. “What-?!” she began, only for Severus to cut her off.

“What was that you said about not being in labour?” he smugly asked.

Hermione gave him a weak shove, laughing at his snappy remark. Cringing when she felt the wet nightgown sticking to her skin, Hermione peered down at her bare, grass-stained and drenched feet. “Fine, Severus, I stand corrected," she amended once the trickling stopped. "Now if you don’t mind, I’d like to change into something dry. Lucius?”

Lucius had already swept Hermione off her feet, and was headed heading back in the direction of the manor. “I’ve sent Severus to contact Lora,” he remarked once they were in Hermione’s bedroom, rifling through her bureau and producing a fresh nightgown. “Although, because this is your first, things might take a while.”

Hermione raised an eyebrow, amused that her husband was so well informed. “I almost want to ask what ‘a while’ means, but something is telling me to desist. But the book said-“

“You’ll find that reading a book and the actual experience are two different things,” Lucius cut in, pulling the soiled clothes off Hermione’s body and helping her into clean ones. “Now before you work yourself up into a state of worrying, let’s wait for Lora to arrive, shall we?”

Sitting down on the bed next to Hermione, Lucius began rubbing her lower back, earning a sigh of relief from the tense witch. “All right,” she replied breathlessly.

Ten minutes later, Healer Lora had come through the Floo and bustled up to her bedroom. Just as Lucius pointed out, Hermione was still in the early stages of labour. There was nothing for her to do at that point, and Lora suggested that Hermione rest while she was still able to.

“Where’s Severus?” Hermione asked after Lora left her room.

“Most likely in my study, helping himself to my brandy,” Lucius replied, ushering her beneath the duvet.

“You can’t leave him down there by himself!” she chided.

“Severus is a fully grown wizard, Hermione. Furthermore you don’t really expect me to leave your side right now, do you?”

“Then take me down to the study with you,” she suggested. “I’m not sleepy, but I am tired of being confined to this bed.”

“I think that your bed would be more accommodating.”

“Believe me; after lying in it for most of my days, it loses its appeal.”

“All right then; but you’ll not be walking.”

“If you insist,” Hermione conceded, shoving the duvet off her legs. She grabbed the light blanket that she kept at the foot of her bed, holding onto it as Lucius picked her back up. “You do know that I feel like a child whenever you carry me,” she commented as he walked out of her room and down the wide staircase.

“Well, you’re carrying my child and it’s nearly the same thing.”

Severus heard Lucius and Hermione’s voices as they approached the study, and stood in the doorway. “I trust everything is going well?”

“Yes,” Lucius answered, walking into the study and setting Hermione down on the leather sofa. “Strangely enough; my wife was worried about you being alone in the study, and insisted that we join you.”

“Shut up, Lucius,” Hermione said, rolling her eyes yet giving her mate a smile as he draped the blanket over her legs. After making sure that she was comfortable, he sat next to her, one hand idly stroking her back. “Lucius was the one that said you were most likely ransacking his liquor cabinet.”

Severus shot them both a wry grin, reaching overto the side table and picking up a glass holding dark amber liquid. “I daresay you’ll be asking for some of this in a few hours,” the raven-haired wizard chuckled.

“It’s not that bad, not right this minute,” Hermione retorted, resting her head against Lucius’ shoulder. "I am having contractions, but they're somewhat mild and far apart."

“If you’d like me to contact Mrs. Potter or Mrs. Weasley, let me know,” Lucius told Hermione as she curled up against him.

“Ginny-only Ginny, but not right this moment. And don’t owl her; try sending a Floo call to Grimmauld Place first, but make sure her mum isn’t with her.”

“Are you avoiding Mrs. Weasley now?”

“Indeed she is,” Severus drawled, taking a sip of his brandy. “Something about her shrill voice, I believe.”

“Yes,” Hermione said, noticeably shuddering. “Molly has good intentions, but the last thing I need is to be in labour with her loudly fussing over me and telling Lora what to do.”

“She wouldn’t last long trying that with Lora; Mrs.Weasley would find herself in the clutches of a Full Body-Binding Curse along with a gag in her mouth,” Lucius said, half-grinning at an old memory. “She did it to Cissy’s mother when she kept hovering.”

“No, she didn’t!” Hermione gasped, her brown eyes growing wide.

“Indeed she did,” Lucius chuckled.

“It seems as if the majority of the Black family had a penchant for caterwauling,” Severur dryly offered, remembering the portraint of Mrs. Black at Grimmauld Place.

“I hated that damned painting,” Hermione cringed. “Whenever I walked past it, it was ‘Mudblood this’ and ‘filthy traitors that’. I hope Harry threw turpentine on the bloody thing.” A strong pull in her stomach made her forget about the caterwauling painting. “Damn,” she hissed, sitting up and redistributing her weight. “I’m fine,” she told Lucius, whom was eyeing her intently, once the pain had subsided.

Hermione made herself comfortable again, and lay against Lucius. She wasn't sleepy but forced her eyes closed, comforted by the lull tone of her husband's voice as he conversed with Severus.

Hermione actually managed a few hours of sleep, only waking up when she felt the pressure reappear in her lower back and abdomen. Eventually she asked for someone to send for Ginny. Thirty minutes later, the redhead stepped of the Floo in the drawing room and was escorted to the study by Tipsy.

She was surprised when Severus' head had shown up in the hearth at Grimmauld Place, but he calmly stated that Hermione needed her, and disappeared without offering further explanation. Harry was insistent upon coming along until Ginny told him that Hermione was nine months pregnant and due any day, and to put two and two together. After that Harry cheerfully remained behind, kissing his wife goodbye and telling her to wish Hermione good luck.

"How are you, love?" she asked, gingerly sitting down across from her friend. Ginny was mildly apprehensive about what she was going to see, yet slightly mollified to find Lucius and Severus calmly sitting in the study, along with a tirelooking but quiet Hermione reclining on the leather sofa.

"It's not too bad now," Hermione answered, running a hand over her stomach. "It's bearable, but I think this is just the beginning. Ask me again in another hour."

"Do you need me to do anything?"

"No, I'm fine for now, thanks," she answered, pushing herself upright. "Heh, I hope you aren't put off by the thought of having a little one of your own after tonight."

"Well, my mum had seven of us; how bad can it be?"

"Have you actually been next to a witch giving birth, Mrs. Potter?" Lucius asked with a slight grin.

"No..." Ginny's voice trailed off. "But Merlin knows I've heard enough stories from Mum, including details from my own birth, that I might as well have been present."

"Lucius, why are you trying to frighten the lass?" Severus asked, catching the apprehensive look her face.

"As if I'd deem to do such a thing," the blond wizard sniffed.

”Honestly, it's as if you expect my head to spin round," Hermione told her husband with a frown. Lucius merely arched a pale eyebrow in her direction, opening his mouth to speak yet falling silent.

"Of course not, love," he told Hermione, kissing her forehead.

Lora made two more trips to the manor over the course of the next few hours, remaining behind on her last. Hermione's contractions were thirty minutes apart, the time in between them soon decreasing. Healer Lora still insisted that she wasn't ready, and had her walking up and down the halls of Malfoy Manor.

By that time, Hermione had become much more vocal, to the point that she snapped and swore at the portraits lining the hallway when they groused at her for making such a fuss.

"When you grow the parts to carry a child that feels as if it's trying to pull every one of your organs out through your arse, then you can have an opinion!" she growled at one austere painting of a grey-haired wizard with a monocle. "Until then shut your mouth!"

Lucius tried his hardest not to laugh, and bit down on his bottom lip until it began throbbing. Hermione fell back into step with her deep breathing, tightly clutching Lucius' hand as they slowly walked down the dimly lit hallway.

"Lucius," Hermione panted, leaning heavily against her husband.

"Yes, love?" he calmly asked, his long fingers stroking the back of her damp neck.

"Let's switch places; you have the baby for me. Or at least carry her for me, just for a bit."

Lucius chuckled into Hermione's ruffled curls. "If it were possible, I would."

Hermione managed to smile through her discomfort, her fingers loosening their grip on Lucius' shirt. "Now that idea is downright macabre," she laughed weakly. "All right; let's go back to my room before I Accio a bottle of turpentine to chuck at the walls."

The portraits immediately scoffed at the suggestion, yet remained silent, knowing better than to further incite the pregnant witch's wrath. Lucius walked Hermione back to her bedrooom, where Lora was waiting for them.

"You're still not there yet, dearie," the Healer told her after a brief examination.

"For goodness' sake, how long do you think?" Hermione huffed, almost ready to be done with it.

"I can't say just yet, but when you've begun swearing at your wand mate, I'd say not far off." Healer Lora then told Lucius to keep Hermione walking, that the movement was helping.

"Helping my arse," she muttered, holding onto Lucius' arm as they walked into her sitting room.

"So what's the verdict?" Ginny asked, standing up and crossing over to Hermione. She and Severus were also in the room, and had been in the midst of conversation.

"This child has a mind of its own," Hermione retorted hotly. "Lora wants me to keep walking; what I really want to do is put my labor on hold and go back to sleep."

Hermione looked so agitated, her brown eyes glaring at everyone, that Ginny took pity on her friend. "It'll be all right, Hermione," she coaxed, moving around to Hermione's other side and holding onto her hand. "I'll walk with her," Ginny told Lucius, urging the blond wizard to sit down.

Lucius was reluctant to let go but Ginny assured him that she had Hermione, and the two witches went back out into the hallway. "I'm sorry you have to see me like this, Ginny," she apologized, panting heavily when another contraction hit her. Hermione squeezed her hand, releasing it when the pain subsided.

"Stop being stupid, Hermione," Ginny told her. "You're my best friend; surely you didn't think I'd be elsewhere right now?"

"Thanks, Gin. You know, I've seen women giving birth on those stupid shows on the telly; I could smack whomever thought it a good idea to make it look so easy. I bet they were men." Ginny had sparingly set eyes on a Muggle television set, yet thought it prudent to agree with anything Hermione said at the moment.

"I will say this- you have one hell of a grip," Ginny added, looking down at Hermione's hand tightly clenched around hers for emphasis. "I almost feel bad for Draco's introduction to your fist."

Hermione soon realized that Lora hadn't been lying about cursing out her husband. In fact, the only one safe from her wrath was the Healer and Severus. She was pacing back and forth in her sitting room, hunched over in pain between contractions. Hermione soundly berated Lucius for bringing her back from Australia, saying that she wouldn't be in this predicament if he'd just left her alone, and then Ginny for sneaking lingerie into her room.

Another particularly strong contraction knocked the wind from her lungs, and Hermione's arms shot out, desperate to hold onto anything. Severus was a few inches away from her and allowed her to squeeze his hands.

"Why doesn't Severus get chastised?" Lucius asked, attempting to pry his wife away from the dark-haired wizard and down onto the chaise. Hermione merely snapped her head around, glowering darkly at her husband, still clinging onto Severus whom was smirking at his friend.

"Because Severus didn't give me a silk nightgown or get me up the duff!" she spat. Hermione's ire fizzled as she moaned in pain again, this time nearly sinking to her knees as she held onto Severus. "Lucius, it hurts," she whimpered, feeling her tightly shut eyes flooding with tears.

"Lucius, bring her into the bedroom," Lora quietly told the wizard, whom barely casted a glance in her direction as he focused on his wife.

Severus tucked away the notion of gloating to his friend for another time, and helped him get Hermione back to her feet. The pains radiated from below her navel to across her entire abdomen, and Hermione's teeth were firmly lodged into her bottom lip, threatening to break skin. Too far gone to protest when Lucius hoisted her up into his arms and swept her back into the bedroom, Hermione lay expectantly as Lora examined her for what seemed like the umpteenth time. "Well?"

"Almost there," the older witch told her.

"Well, I'm not moving from this bed, so if you think I'm going to prawl the hallways again you are most severely out of luck!"

"You can remain here; it's not a problem," Lora warmly told her, unaffected by Hermione's uncharacteristically sharp tone.

As Hermione's labour progressed, she became even shorter with her spouse and Healer. It seemed as if every little bit of her body hurt, and no matter which way she lay, Hermione was unable to find a comfortable position. Each contraction felt as if it was going to tear her apart, to the point that she nearly forgot her own name. Hermione would have turned blue if it hadn't been for Lucius behind her, his arms around her body as he reminded her to breathe.

Lora soon left the room, explaining that she needed to fetch her apprentice. Hermione sank back against Lucius' chest, licking her dry lips with a dryer tongue. "My mouth is parched. I could really go for that drink Severus offered me earlier."

"Somehow I dont' think Lora would approve of brandy," Lucius replied, shifting over slightly to pick up his wand from the side table. "How about this?" he asked, conjuring a glass of ice water and holding it up to Hermione's lips.

The cold water was ambrosia to her dehydrated mouth, and she greedily drank it down. "Thank you," she said, lifting a hand to push the damp strands of hair out of her eyes. Lucius gathered Hermione's hair in one hand, using his wand to secure it atop her head in a loose knot. The cool air hitting the back of her sweaty neck was a small relief, and Hermione briefly considered doing away with her nightgown when she felt another contraction.

"Bloody hell, they're getting worse!" she gritted out, her body completely rigid against Lucius' as she dug her fingertips into his legs.

By the time Lora returned with her apprentice, a younger witch clad in simple robes, Hermione was kneeling in bed, hunched over and clinging to Lucius. Her fingers looked as if they were about to rip the shirt right off his back, if the thread pulling at the seams was any indication.

Hermione barely registered the Healer making preparations for the birth. She too caught up with crying between the contractions that were now back to back, barely affording her the opportunity to catch her breath. The pain was downright unbearable, and Hermione was fervently telling herself that she couldn't go on, not realizing that she'd actually verbalized her thoughts until she heard Lucius offering quiet words of encouragment.

The pulling in her stomach multiplied, and Hermione was on the verge of screaming at the Healer positioned between her bent knees, until she told her to push, and found that it somewhat relieved the pressure in her abdomen.

It was an hour before Hermione pushed their child out, but to her it felt like three. Lucius helped her remain upright, his strong arms around her body as he calmly counted while Hermione panted, screamed and cursed between pushing. She bore down so hard her face became red with exertion, going completely limp when Lora told her to stop.

By the time Lora told her to push again, Hermione was sure she was going to die on the spot. It felt like someone had set fire between her legs, and she began inwardly bargaining with every deity known to her for the pain to stop. Dimly registering the fact that Lora was telling her that the baby's head was out, Hermione clung onto Lucius' hands as if they were her lifeline.

"You're nearly there," Lora urged. "One more and you two will meet your child."

Hermione was sore and tired, and wanted nothing more than for it to be over with. Mustering up enough strength to push again, she found that it hurt less than before, and nearly cried with relief when she felt the baby slip completely from her body.

"Hello, love," Hermione whispered to her and Lucius' howling daughter when Lora placed her on her chest. She continued to stare down at the baby, still a bit dazed but apparently already having forgotten about the pain. Lucius also seemed a bit stunned, and became slightly choked up.

Lora granted Lucius the privilege of cutting the umbilical cord, after which she took their daughter to make sure that everything was all right. Her apprentice helped to sort Hermione out, and an hour later she was bathed, helped into a clean nightgown and back into bed. She had all but devoured the tea and toast sent in when Lucius sat next to her, holding the small bundle of blankets in his arms.

The Healer and apprentice left the room to give the two some privacy, Lora telling them that she would let Ginny and Severus know that Hermione was doing well.

"Thank you," Lucius said, kissing Hermione on the forehead and placing their daughter in her arms.

"I'm sorry I yelled at you," she replied in a tired voice, pulling the blankets back to see her baby. Lucius was every bit entranced as Hermione. He gently ran a fingertip over the downy soft pale blonde hair atop her head, then picked up her tiny, tightly closed fist. The little girl uncurled her delicate hand to hold onto his finger, yet continued sleeping soundly. "What are we going to name her?"

"I came across the name Aniella, I meant to ask if you liked it."

Hermione shifted the baby in her arms to lean her head against Lucius' shoulder. "Aniella. That's pretty, I like it. How about Sophie for her middle name?"

"Aniella Sophie Malfoy. Perfect."

"Sophie was my mum's middle name," Hermione said, feeling a sense of contentment wash over her.

"Aniella Sophie," Lucius echoed in a soft voice, running his thumb over the soft, tiny fingers that were still wrapped around his pointer. It was almost as if Aniella was responding to the sound of her father's voice, as her brown eyes opened slightly before promptly closing shut. "I suppose that means she approves."

Hermione smiled weakly at her husband, amused at how utterly smitten Lucius was already by his daughter. She then realized that he was wearing the same clothing as when he first returned to the manor. He'd stripped down to his shirtsleeves and trousers, both of which were wrinkled from Hermione's firm grasp. Lucius' grey eyes were bloodshot, his blond hair was ruffled and he needed a shave, and he looked exhausted as Hermione felt, but on top of it all he was unable to stop smiling.

"Lucius, go shower and have something to eat. You look knackered."

"I'll be all right," he answered, remaining in bed next to Hermione.

"Sweetheart, go. We aren't going anywhere. Besides, I'm sure Ginny is ready to come inside, that is if I haven't sent her running with all of my screaming."

"All right, love," Lucius conceded, briefly kissing Hermione, looking almost reluctant to gingerly unwrap his daughter's tiny hand from around his finger. "I won't be a moment."

Hermione sank back onto the pillows, cradling the sleeping newborn in the crook of her arm. Lulled by the sound of Aniella's soft breathing, Hermione turned her head when she heard a timid knock at her bedroom door.

"Hi," Ginny softly called, walking over to the bed and peering down into the bundle of blankets. "How are you?"

"Sore, knackered, but happy," Hermione answered, shifting the blankets so Ginny was able to see the baby more clearly. "Say hi to Aunt Ginny, Aniella."

"Aniella...so the lady from your honeymoon was right about you having a girl," she cooed, melting at the sight of Aniella. "She has Lucius' blond hair; I wonder if she'll develop your curls."

"Well it looks as if she has my eyes," Hermione said. "Would you like to hold her?"

Ginny nodded her head, holding out her arms as Hermione shifted the featherlight bundle into them. "She's gorgeous," she continued, carefully sitting down in the armchair next to the bed. "What a pretty baby."

"You'd better be careful, Gin," Hermione laughed, "else you'll be next."

"Judging by the way you were screaming...I think I can wait," she ruefully replied. "Is it really that bad?"

Hermione fell silent for a minute, thinking of an analogy to describe what she had just gone through. "One woman told me that if you take your bottom lip and try to pull it over your head; that's what labour feels like," she finally answered. "The woman lied-it was worse. But I'll be honest, as soon as I saw Aniella, I nearly forgot about the pain."

"Bloody hell," Ginny said, cringing noticeably. "How did you do it? How did Mum go through that seven times? You both deserve a medal or holiday at the very least."

Right then Lora came back into the room, and asked Hermione if she wanted to try feeding her daughter. Telling the Healer yes, the older witch took the baby from Ginny and placed her in Hermione's arms. It took a few tries, Aniella nuzzling her pink little scrunched up face against Hermione's breast, but she eventually latched on.

"Hermione, I'm going to go now," Ginny whispered, not wanting to disturb the two. "Have Lucius owl me or Harry tomorrow if you need anything. I reckon you'll want to wait a bit before having guests so I won't tell Mum."

"Thanks, Ginny," Hermione replied, giving her friend an awkward one-armed hug. "Thanks for everything; I didn't to keep you here this long."

"Don't be silly," she continued in a hushed tone. "All right then? Get some rest."

Hermione waved behind her friend, turning to look at Lora whom was still hovered over her and Aniella. "You did well," Lora told her, plucking one of the extra pillows from the headboard and placing it beneath Hermione's supporting arm.

"I did?" she asked, sounding surprised. "I experienced the Cruciatus before and it wasn't as bad as this. For a moment I thought I was being boiled alive."

"You're stronger than you give yourself credit for," the Healer replied with a wink. "Trust me when I tell you. So everything seems in order, and I'll take my leave now. Lucius can send for me if needed."

"All right; thank you, Lora," Hermione replied. "Oh, before you go, do you know if Severus is still around? I almost forgot that he was here."

"That'll be the tall, dark one I presume? I believe so. I'll send him in but only for a few minutes, you need your rest."

Hermione nodded her assent, and watched as Lora walked out of her room. Aniella's mouth had fallen slack, and Hermione was retying her nightgown across her chest when Severus knocked at her door. The reserved wizard seemed almost reticent to be inside of Hermione's bedroom, until she convinced him to come closer.

"I'm not going to bite, I just wanted to thank you for earlier," she said with a grin. "I'm sure the last thing you expected when you came over today was for a pregnant witch to clutch onto your arm, nearly breaking it in the process."

"You're strong, but not that strong," Severus jested, unable to resist peering over at the baby. He also looked tired but managed to maintain his composure. "I'll offer my congratulations to you as your husband isn't present."

"I sent Lucius to get something to eat, and to regain his hearing I suppose. My throat still aches from yelling so loudly."

"I can safely say that you were in a run-in with the portraits at Grimmauld Place. As it were, the ones out in the hallway are still most put out with you."

Severus and Hermione both found that little tidbit amusing, and shared a chuckle. "Well then, Madam Malfoy, I'll bid you and the little one goodnight."

"Goodnight, Severus. And thank you again."

The dark-haired wizard nodded curtly and turned on his heel, meeting Lucius just as we walking back into the bedroom. The two exchanged greetings, and Severus excused himself in aims of his room at the other end of the manor.

"Now isn't that better?" Hermione asked Lucius, whom was freshly showered and in his dressing robe, as he approached the bed.

"If I say no, will I get chastised?"

Hermione rolled her eyes, at the same time unleashing a wide yawn. Lucius had brought the moses basket into her bedroom earlier, and was now carrying it over to set next to the bed.

"Do you think she'll be all right in there?" Hermione worriedly asked when Lucius picked up the swaddled Aniella from her arms and set her down.

"Yes, Hermione, she will be fine," he patiently answered, his hand grazing the curls on his daughter's forehead. Slipping into bed next to Hermione, he gently drew her closer and wrapped an arm around her body. "Now close your eyes and go to sleep. If Aniella should awake, believe me, we'll both hear her."

Hermione was still reluctant to not have her baby in her arms, but was too tired to argue. Lucius wandlessly turned off the lights and idly ran his fingers through his wife's hair, who was sound asleep within a minute.
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Accidental Blood Bond