Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

Bound	By : goldhorse Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Draco/Hermione Views: 126052 -:- Recommendations : 15 -:- Currently Reading : 31
Disclaimer: JK owns HP. Not me. I also don't own any quotes you might recognize. I make no money doing this, I just get the plot bunnies to quit interrupting my sleep.

Chapter List
- 53
- 54
- 55
“Evening Father,” Draco said tiredly as he plopped down in a chair in front of Severus’s desk. The day had only gotten worse from his training session with Hermione that morning. Confused members of the DA hissed at him in the halls, the Carrows hounded him for his absence during rounds the previous night, and he’d kept Hermione with him hidden in his robes as a hummingbird. Bending the wards all day long had proved tiresome on top of healing Melody and training with no sleep.

“Evening Draco,” Severus said softly and watched in amusement as Hermione transformed back and perched on her husband’s lap. “Daughter.”

“Father,” Hermione said softly.

“The others will join us shortly. Coffee?”

“Merlin yes!” They said in unison and waited patiently while Severus poured.

“Melody’s picking a fight with Alecto as we speak.”

“Is that wise?” Draco asked, taking a careful sip from his steaming mug.

“Probably not but she’s being shadowed by Alex so she’s in no real danger.”

“I take it Celeste is leading the others around?” Hermione asked.

Severus nodded. “Did you discover anything during your classes today?”

“You mean other than the fact that most of the school hates Draco?” Hermione sniffed. “I think that if we inform the teachers on our side well in advance, we can sneak some of the younger years out and to safety.”

“When would we start?” Severus asked in interest.

“Probably best to wait until that morning,” Draco said, rubbing the rim of his cup in thought. “The younger years don’t have either of the Carrows that day. As long as they don’t notice the absence of them in the halls, we should be fine.”

“We’ll discuss the procedure when the others get here then,” Severus said.

“How did your conversation with McGonagall go?” Draco asked.

“It was…interesting.”

“Interesting meaning that she yelled at you for a few hours regarding our marital status,” Draco said dryly.

Severus’s lips twitched. “Three hours, thirty seven minutes.”

Hermione giggled for a minute and then sobered. “What about the rest of the students?”

“No one knows what the markings mean, even the purebloods. The ritual is so ancient that no one recognizes it and that is what Albus was counting on when he picked it out.”

“So what do they think?” Draco asked.

“The rumors are astronomical.” Severus grinned. “Mrs. Potter tells me that it ranges from bonded mind slave to soul mates.”

“Last one is a bit close, isn’t it?” Draco asked, shifting uncomfortably.

“It is. However, until you give weight to them, they remain just rumors. Remember the ones that flew last year?”

“Romeo and Juliet.” Hermione smiled softly. “That was my favorite one.”

“And the closest,” Severus said with a tiny smile. “They all seem to have a gleam in their eye at having known they were right all along.”

Draco laughed. “If they only knew.”

“Indeed.” Severus smirked and looked up when the door opened again, revealing Celeste with Harry, Ginny, and Ron. “Safe passage?”

“No complaints,” Celeste said as she slipped around his desk and made herself at home in his lap.

“Where’s Melody?” Severus asked anxiously.

“Here bat,” Melody called as she walked in, Alex in wolf form hot on her heels. He transformed back and gave everyone a cursory nod.

“Good. We can get started,” Severus put his mug down and explained Hermione’s thoughts about sneaking the younger years out.

“Good plan,” Melody said. “And speaking of good plans, we need some insight to ours. Sev, could you open the floo?”

Severus nodded and waved his hand, his fireplace springing to life. A few moments later, it turned green and a very large bellied Harmony stepped out, escorted by Philippe and another man.

“Professor Dumbledore,” Harry said softly. Ginny merely teared up a bit. Ron nodded soberly.

“Evening children. It is wonderful to see you again.”

“Albus,” Severus said softly and gave the man a strong handshake before scooting back from the desk, intent on giving his chair up.

“Stay Severus. It is your position now.”

“Merlin how I would love to give it up.”

“Get them through this Severus. I am counting on you.”

“Well,” Melody broke in. “That’s what we’re fixing to plan out. I figured Harmony could help a bit with logistics. Sweetheart, could you hold Hermione’s hand and see if her plan will come to fruition?”

Harmony nodded and waddled over to the couple. She placed her hand on their temples. Unable to resist, they placed their hands upon the twins in her stomach. She swayed a moment and then turned them loose. Philippe immediately conjured a fluffy chair and helped her sit down and put her feet up.

“Spoiled little brats already,” Harmony said with a smile as she rubbed her stomach. “They’ve already gotten everyone wrapped around their perfect little fingers. I can’t wait to meet them.”

“We’re dying to,” Melody said, grimacing a bit at the double meaning of her words but she shook it off. “The plan?”

“Will work beautifully but you’ll need a diversion at dinner or you’ll be caught with your pants down.”

“How is You Know Who going to know when we’ll strike?” Harry asked.

“Archimedes is going back with Harmony tonight,” Melody explained. “We’ll have you pen a letter dropping clues that you plan on coming to the castle with a precious artifact on All Saint’s Day. Archimedes will be intercepted by the shrewd Headmaster and passed along to the Dark Bastard. We believe he’ll drop by a day early and the war will be on then. Harmony?”

The blonde nodded. “So far so good.”

“So we get the younger years out as quickly as we can. How do we keep others from noticing?” Harry asked.

“There are a number of simple golem spells that we can use.” Melody thought for a bit. “I’m sure Minerva is dying to use them. We can transfigure simple objects to stand in their place and impose a few mannerisms into them. No one will be paying that close attention to them except Filch and I’ll drug his crotchety old ass early that morning. He’ll be in the best of spirits all day long.”

“Sounds terrifying.” Ginny shuddered. “What about the older years?”

“Everyone below fourth year has no choice. They must leave,” Severus said. “Fifth years who want to stay and have been proven exceptional in class will be allowed on a case by case basis. If I get wishes to pull them out from their guardians, they’re gone. I can’t make that call.”

“And sixth and seventh years?” Ginny asked.

“I can’t very well control my own children from running into the fray, I’ll have very little say over the others. Most of them aren’t near ready but they possess the best basics they can have without stopping to try and train them properly.”

“They hate Draco,” Hermione said softly. “They are convinced that either I’m under his spell or he’s acting.”

“I’d like to see them act like that,” Melody sneered. “No mater though. I have an idea. Harmony?” She got up and kneeled by her sister.

“That’s perfect. A few tangents you must keep your eye on but I believe that if everything goes off without a hitch, they’ll believe and defend you,” Harmony said in a wispy voice.

“So what is this perfect plan?” Severus asked in irritation.

“Seeing is believing,” Melody said simply. “Yesterday, they saw the couple drink each other’s blood, which everyone knows is how you try and create a connection. And of course, it was totally worth it to see the looks on their faces. Imagine, a pureblood Malfoy exchanging and consuming the blood of a common muggle-born. It was sensational. Then they saw these two kiss like it might be their last one. Bells should have fucking rang during that kiss but they were still stumped. Then we recreated the dolls and they shouted in outrage, not only because our couple is together but because they can do the exercise so well. It arouses curiosity. Then, they showed an impressive bit of magic by healing me, wandlessly I might add, and promptly collapsing. Of course, waking up with a blood curdling scream on their lips after they’d been mumbling about being in a dream was sure to attract a lot of attention. The last straw was when they came to and Draco immediately cast a wandless shield over not himself, but Hermione to make sure she was okay.”

“So they saw a lot.” Draco shrugged.

“They saw their vision of Draco Malfoy shatter into hundreds of little pieces,” Melody corrected. “Now is the time to build up the image we want to. Practicing in front of everyone day and night is going to let them see how dedicated you are to winning the war. It’ll show your tender side for Hermione. After all, you do a bit more than bend her over a table and go at it and it’ll come out through observation.”

“You think observation is going to change their minds,” Draco snorted.

“I do when combat is involved. We need to step it up a notch so we’re going to be doing this far longer than we need to for you to get the hang of it. Unfortunately, this means Unforgivables. We’ve got to exercise that muscle so it doesn’t shut down again. I just…I hate it but it can’t be helped.” Melody swiped a tear out of her eye.

“Not the first time,” Draco muttered. “Can we start out with light hexes though, stinging ones that don’t cause any damage so we can work up to it?”

“Of course! I’m not about to just dump you in a shark tank you know,” Melody said affronted. “I might be a bitch but I’m not a heartless one.”

“Unforgivables?” Ron cut in. “You’re going to cast Unforgivables on them?”

“I’m not. He is.” Melody pointed at Severus. “They need to keep their concentration. If they can’t function separately, the battle is already lost.”

“But Unforgivables?” Ron shrieked.

“You think the Death Eaters are going to spare them?” Severus asked incredulously. “They’ll be dodging killing curses Weasley. The cruciatis is just another tool to them. They need to be able to work together. Besides, Draco will be getting it from both sides once the Dark Lord finds out he’s a traitor.”

“Which is why,” Melody interrupted, “they are going to train in front of the DA. They’ll have to work out a few creative maneuvers, probably use their wands, but hopefully Draco can earn some respect from them.”

“I think it’s bollocks,” Ron huffed.

“Trust me Weasely, we don’t fancy it any more than you do but we’ve done it before and we’ll do it again and again until we get it right,” Draco sighed.

“You’ve done it before?” Ron paled.

“Couple of times,” Hermione said softly, remembering being strapped naked to a tree and taking the curse. She shuddered and blinked a few times to rid herself of the memory.

Ron shook his head. “I…I…when? I never saw you.”

“Course not,” Draco snorted. “No one needed to interfere so we did it in secret. Melody, are you sure they aren’t going to figure out we can feel each other’s pain?”

Melody shrugged. “Just keep the agonizing looks off your faces and we’ll go from there. We’ll change a few memories if we have to but I don’t see it being a problem. I doubt anyone even noticed what you switched on the dolls.”

“What did you switch?” Ron asked.

“They controlled each other’s dolls,” Ginny piped up. “You should see them hit their stride though. They can do it when dancing with other people.”

“No bloody way.”

“Yes bloody way.” Melody grinned. “This time we’ll try it blindfolded. Should be fun.”

“Oh loads,” Draco said sarcastically. “I hate to be a bother, but can we get back to planning our Halloween escapade?”

“Tired are we?” Melody asked with knowing smile.

“Let’s just say that we’re rounding hour 38 of my day and I’m starting to find things less than humorous,” Draco said curtly.

“Oh fine you ninny,” Melody huffed. “Sev’s probably going to explode with this one so you might want to cast a shield.”

“What do you mean?” Severus growled lowly.

“Oh, just a little twist on the Halloween feast,” Melody said lightly, biting back a laugh when Severus scowled blackly at her. “How about the oldest three years have a dance while the younger ones veg out in their common rooms.”

“WHAT?” Severus yelled, slamming his coffee cup down on the desk and sloshing the black liquid everywhere.

“Told ya he’d explode.” Melody giggled and siphoned up the mess. “Think about it Sev. The Carrows are only going to care about the youngest Slytherins. They won’t notice that there won’t be anyone about from the other three houses, especially if their Heads of House are in on it. The golems will be instructed to return to the common rooms where the spells will end. Then we only have to worry about getting those out who don’t want to fight and taking those out who are on Moldy’s side.”

“What about the young Slytherins?” Draco asked. “Yes, a lot come from Death Eater families but I can assure you that not a whole lot of them want anything to do with the war.”

Melody nodded. “I thought about that. Slughorn is still Head of House. The old man may be a blowhard but he’s Slytherin through and through and if he sees the benefit in lying to the Carrows, he’ll go with it. Hell, he’d probably polyjuice the lot of them to get them out.”

“So we evacuate them as well?” Harry asked.

“We do,” Melody said. “We’ll just make sure the other three houses are out first. That way, if one is stupid enough to sound the alarm, they can’t rat us out before the others escape. I don’t anticipate them doing that though. One session with the Carrows is enough to turn anyone sour.”

“I’ll work on trying to find the ones who desperately want out first,” Draco murmured to himself. “We can deal with the more headstrong children later.”

“Sounds good,” Melody said. “What do you think Sev?”

Severus sighed heavily. “It’s a plan. How are we going to get those fifth years out though?”

“Why can’t the DA sneak them out?” Ginny asked. “We’ve already set up a good report in the month school has been back in session. We can take them a few at a time.”

“Yes but that’s going to take too long,” Harry grimaced.

“If we had a large distraction, we could get them in bigger groups,” Ron added.

“Right in one Ron,” Melody said, boring her eyes into the couple. “I know just the thing.”

“Oh no. No no no,” Draco said. “Dancing in front of the DA when their tongues are bound is one thing. Doing so in front of the entire school would be anarchy.”

“I thought that’s what we were going for,” Melody said. “Besides, I think we should make it a masquerade party.”

“That’s going to make it difficult to tell anyone apart,” Severus scowled.

“It works both ways,” Melody said. “If you can’t see who’s missing, you can’t point it out. Similarly, Draco and Hermione will be safe from those who would kill her on sight.”

“But how do we tell everyone apart to get them out?” Harry asked.

“I’ll be able to tell them apart. I’ll mark them with something only the DA can see and you can gather them that way.”

“But what kind of mark will it be?” Harry asked.

“Not sure.” Melody bit her lip. “Albus, can you help us come up with something?”

“I’m sure I can.” Dumbledore smiled. “It seems like you have everything else figured out.”

“We’ll still need to sound the alarm to the Dark Lord,” Draco said. “He’ll be expecting it but he still needs to know the battle is on.”

“We’ll use the Carrows for that,” Celeste said, her eyes flashing indigo at the thought. “I think Alex and I can handle them.”

Alex smiled. “Sure. I’ll just compel them to call and then…well…we won’t have to worry about them any longer than that.”

Ron shuddered. “Ugh. That’s horrible!”

“You’d prefer me to leave them able to attack?” Alex asked softly.

Ron huffed. “No, but I don’t want to watch you drain them either.”

“So turn around,” Melody said in a hard voice. “I think that will work nicely. Once we get everyone we can out, Draco and Hermione can reveal themselves. It isn’t like Draco will be able to hide much longer than that anyway. It’ll alarm the Carrows, Celeste and Alex can take them out quickly. Sev…um…could you please help them?”

“Why?” Severus asked, his head tilted. “I think they’ll have everything well under control.”

Melody stared deep into his eyes. Hermione was sure that she knew what they were discussing. Harmony still saw Severus’s death and she wanted him to feed beforehand so he’d be as strong as possible. Her eyes watered at the thought of losing him and Draco held her a bit closer in comfort. He was right. Severus was strong. He’d make it.

“Very well,” Severus said aloud after a few minutes. “I’ll help.”

“Thank you,” Melody said hoarsely. “While that is happening, the DA and Blaise can take out those who wish to side with Moldy.”

“Blaise?” Harry asked in alarm.

“Blaise Zabini has agreed to fight on our side, provided he is given sanctuary as an ally to the light,” Severus said blandly. “He helped contain the Death Eaters last year.”

“I never saw him,” Ron growled.

“That’s because he was obeying me and staying hidden,” Melody said sharply. “We couldn’t risk blowing his cover when we still had another year to get through.”

“How did he get involved?” Harry asked.

“Blaise has sharp eyes,” Draco said softly. “He picked up on what no one else noticed last year and called us on it. We came to an understanding.”

“Meaning you threatened him with his life if he didn’t,” Ron snorted.

“You disapprove Weasley?” Draco asked sarcastically.

“Well the git can still turn on us, can’t he?”

“Doubtful,” Harmony said. “I don’t see him turning away.”

“Well that’s just great then isn’t it?” Ron said. “If Harmony says it won’t happen, then that’s it isn’t it?”

“It is.” Everyone answered and Ron shrank a little, not understanding their faith in the seer.

“I think we have our plan then.” Melody said, standing up with a small wince. She was still sore from the night before. “Everyone head back to the ROR. Draco, Hermione, we begin training as soon as you get there. We’ll go easy on the hexes tonight because you are so tired but after this day, no breaks.”

Hermione and Draco nodded solemnly. They had so much work to do.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

“Again!” Melody cried and hit them both with a stinging jinx to get them off the floor.

Draco groaned and hauled himself up. He practically dragged Hermione up with him and settled her against his chest. They were impossibly tired but there was no sign of Melody letting up. Halloween was two weeks away and they were only getting marginally better as the days passed. They picked the dolls up again and started stumbling their way through another fast paced Latin dance, cursing the day the fates did this to them.

Plans were going fabulously. The professors, all except the Carrows that is, had agreed to the plan. Only, they had no idea it was Severus who supported it. McGonagall was the only one who knew Severus was still on their side and she wasn’t talking. Harry had taken to slipping around the castle after Melody showed him how to bend the wards. They each received a visit from him in their quarters, wrapped up in an invisibility cloak. He hadn’t taken chances either. He’d petrified them while he explained the plan and then only after a vow from him did he release them and disappear again.

The DA was busily making plans with the younger years to help them gather what they needed to escape quickly. They took pictures of each of the children, labeled them with their names, years, and houses, and gave them to McGonagall who created individual golems for each out of knitting needles. They’d mapped out all escape routes, including the one through the ROR that led to Abelforth’s pub. Remus and Tonks would be on the other side to sneak them out of the village.

In this midst of all this, Draco and Hermione trained like they never had before. Mornings, they’d wake at the crack of dawn and start practicing with the dolls. Melody had taken to making them put up a shield so others couldn’t interfere. They were to hold it the entire time they worked. The first time someone sent a stunner at Draco, they were thankful for it. They still didn’t trust him and they were quickly becoming angry at Melody for repeatedly hexing Hermione. They went through the same routine after dinner as well.

Today, they were working through lunch and they were about ready to give up. The dolls hadn’t wavered in days so they knew they’d gotten their concentration back. They hadn’t bothered to put their shield up this time because everyone save Harry and Ginny were eating. Ron had taken the place of his sister and went to the great hall to eat and check out everything from there. Harry and Ginny were thankful for the time alone and were now watching silently as their friends struggled through their routines. Alex and Celeste had started their training again when no one else was looking.

“You two are pathetic,” Melody called. “I could knock you over with a feather.”

“Probably,” Draco muttered and spun Hermione around into a sloppy dip.

“Oh come over here then and get this pepper up potion. You tell Sev I gave it to you and I’ll hex your ears off.”

They drank up, thankful for the sudden boost. No sooner had they gone to work when a dark cloaked figure walked through the door. They relaxed when the hood was dropped and Severus was revealed. Then dread settled in their stomachs. This was the start of their real training. They could fight mild hexes easy but the cruciatis took skill and concentration and they could hardly function through it.

“I figured I’d keep the cloak on for when the others arrive,” Severus said softly. “This being the weekend, there are no classes.”

“And we can recuperate,” Draco said in a dead voice. He did not want to go through with this.

“That too,” Severus said softly. “You know I have no desire to do this.”

“We know,” Hermione croaked. “Let’s just get it done.”

Severus nodded. “The rules for this session are simple. No blocking me. Only try blocking your pain from each other. The goal is for the other to remain standing and ideally dancing and expression free while the other takes the curse. When their turn is over, you switch.”

“That’s just cruel!” Harry shouted.

“And necessary,” Melody said softly. “Trust me Potter, no one wants to do this.”

“Then why do it at all?” Harry growled.

“What happens when one of them are hit with it on the battlefield?” Severus asked in a low voice. “We can’t risk them both falling. They’ve got to separate and keep fighting.”

“So let them fight now!” Harry yelled.

“No,” Severus snapped. “Now they learn to control the link. If they are successful, I’ll let them fight back but they’ve got to focus on one thing at a time.”

“They’ll be a quivering mess by the time you get done with them.”

“I can assure you Potter; I will use as minimal force as necessary for them to learn.”

“Yea right,” Harry huffed.

“Harry,” Melody broke in. “I want your word. Absolutely no interference. You’ll only be hurting them if you do. If you start fighting Severus, they’ll have experienced the pain for nothing.”

Harry squirmed in his chair for a few minutes. Finally, Ginny reached over and rubbed soothing circles on his chest. “You know they have to do this Harry. It’s their job. Let them learn.”

Harry dropped his head to his chest and placed his hand over hers to still it. “Fine. I vow to stay right here and let you torture them.”

Severus snorted. “Wonderful. Start the music. Don’t forget to keep a connection with the dolls and put a shield up.”

Draco and Hermione cast a shield and took their stances. “This is madness,” Draco muttered as he commanded his doll to match his wife’s movements.

“We’re all a bit mad,” Melody said softly. “I think a nice slow rumba would be appropriate.”

The first strings of a heavy beat filled the air and Draco dropped Hermione in a beautiful dip. He kissed the scar on her collar bone and brought her up sensually. He saw the DA enter just as he snapped her around for a spin. Severus already had his hood up and they pointed at the dark figure with his wand aimed at the pair. Suddenly, Hermione screamed in pain and he caught her just before she hit the floor. He kept his face neutral and dropped to his knees. His feet felt like jelly and the dolls dropped. The curse stopped abruptly.

“You lost connection. Not good enough,” Melody said sternly. “Stand Up!”

Shouts sounded out and a dozen students ran forward, only to run into a shield that was still holding strong.

“Well, you did keep one thing up,” Severus whispered, knowing that only they could hear him. “Continue.”

Hermione was breathing hard. Her body was aching now from the after effects of the cruciatis. She hadn’t snapped the connection fast enough and had felt the first instance of pain. They were going to have to do much better than this or they’d be sitting ducks. She trembled a bit and then locked her arms around Draco as he brought them to a standing position. She followed shakily and they latched on to the dolls again. This was going to be hard.

A few more bars into the music and Draco yelled as the cruciatis struck him square in the back. He’d cut the connection off quickly but Hermione still grimaced from the pain. He cursed himself for being so stupid. Shouts from the other side of the shield made him lose focus on the dolls. Hermione’s was still standing but his had fallen. He concentrated as hard as he could, the twitching making it difficult and stood the doll back up. The curse stopped and he huffed in relief.

“You lost it but you regained it. Good try but still not enough. STAND UP!” Melody screamed.

Draco reconnected and groaned when the pain washed over him. He stood on wobbly legs and tried to stop the shaking in his limbs. Severus’s curses were just as strong as his fathers. He wasn’t pulling any stops. He weakly led Hermione in a turn and tried to straighten himself out.

“Better,” Severus whispered. “The Gods know I am so sorry for this.”

“Can’t be helped,” Draco murmured and dipped Hermione again, almost losing her when she began shuddering uncontrollably. This curse was quick and strong but they’d shut down just in time. The dolls stood and mimicked their movements when he brought her against his chest for support. The shaking stopped.

“THERE!” Melody screamed in delight. “Just like that!”

Hermione trembled but gave Draco a passionate kiss. A small light flickered but they fought it under control. At least they knew their connection was doing well. Draco almost forgot where he was until he felt his nerves light on fire. He quickly cut off the connection and realized his knees had given out. Hermione was bearing the brunt of his weight. They didn’t even notice that the dolls were still up and the shield held strong.

“Stop,” Melody breathed and Draco realized that the curse had already been lifted. He stood at attention. “You’ve done it. Rest.”

Draco and Hermione immediately hit the floor, the curse overcoming them. Severus sheathed his wand and quickly made his way over to them, checking the damage. “Just a bit of nerve damage. You’ll have the shakes for a few hours but nothing serious. We’ll pick this up again later.”

“No,” Hermione said.

“What?” Severus asked in alarm.

“We’re close. I can feel it. We can fight.”

“I’m not going to push you. It’s bad enough to do this to you but I can’t ask you to risk your bodies like this,” Severus pleaded with her.

Draco closed his eyes briefly. He knew what Hermione was thinking. If they could get the hang of this today, they could spend the rest of the weekend recuperating and then move on to other things they needed to learn, like shielding an entire castle while simultaneously casting and taking curses. He just hated to see her damaged. Finally, he sighed in defeat. “She’s right.”

“No,” Severus snapped. “I won’t.”

“Please?” Hermione pleaded. “You know we need to master this. We don’t have much time.”

“You won’t be able to do it at all if you wreck your bodies,” Melody said as she knelt beside them.

“You can fix us,” Draco said, hardly believing that he was backing Hermione up.

Melody closed her eyes. “I don’t want to though. I want you whole and healthy.”

“We don’t always get what we want,” Hermione said stubbornly.

“Your friends are about to flay us alive.” Severus glanced at the angry faces of the DA, still trying to break through the shield.

“Hang them,” Draco said. “I can’t believe I’m saying this but she’s right. We’ve got to get this now or we’ll fail.”

Severus bowed his head in his hands and took a steadying breath. “Can’t you see this is killing me?”

“It isn’t a bloody picnic where we’re sitting either,” Draco groused. “But we’re better than this.”

Melody rubbed Severus’s shoulder. “I hate to say it, but they’re right. We’ll all have to suck it up.”

Severus nodded and rose, helping Melody up with him. “Places. You may fight back but do NOT hit Melody.”

“After we passed out healing her? Are you insane?” Draco asked and then hauled himself up. He was glad the shaking had somewhat abated. He helped Hermione into position and they limped back over to the middle of their training area. Shouts of protest filled the air. Harry merely shook his head and held Ginny close to him.

“Wands out,” Severus said curtly and brought his into position. “Music on. Everything stays the same.”

Draco and Hermione nodded, taking their wands out and connecting with the dolls again. A slow waltz started playing and Draco led at an easy pace. He saw the first curse coming and neatly blocked it, sending it skittering against a wall. The second one Hermione caught and directed it to the ground beside them. The third caught Draco square in the chest. He froze for a few moments, trying desperately to switch his mind over. Luckily, Hermione was a bit quicker and sent a stunner at Severus. When it was blocked, the curse ended.

“That was pathetic!” Melody called. “You’re slower than my grandma and she’s been dead for twenty years!”

Draco growled and stood back up. There was no way he was getting caught again. The next few curses were dodged but Hermione got hit and went down like a chunk of lead. He quickly sent out a stream of hexes and pulled her behind him.

“Better,” Melody said, nodding her head proudly. “But not good enough.”

Things got better from there. The curses were short but powerful and they neatly dodged most of them. The ones that struck were easily ended with a few hexes. The DA on the other side of the shield was livid, screaming at Melody and the cloaked figure to quit hurting the couple. They were ignored but it served as a distraction and Hermione got hit three times in a row because of it.

“FOCUS!” Severus roared, having had enough of catching his daughter unaware.

Draco hauled her back up. “Ignore everyone sweetheart. You’re going to be seriously hurt if you don’t start paying attention.”

“I think I’m already there,” Hermione said, grabbing her chest. “Feels like I punctured a lung.”

Draco paled and threw up a second shield, quickly running a diagnostic spell to make sure everything was okay. “Three broken ribs.” His voice was hollow.

“We’ll stop,” Severus said, lowering his wand.

“No!” Hermione yelled. “It’s my fault. I wasn’t paying attention. I’ll do better.”

“No Hermione,” Draco said. “You really will puncture a lung if we keep at it. I can’t let you do that.”

“You might be my husband Draco,” she whispered, “but you aren’t my boss. We’ll continue until I can’t.”

Draco screamed in frustration and sent a bolt of lightning against the far wall. “Gods you are so bloody stubborn!”

Hermione gave him a small smile. “You love that about me.”

“Of course I do,” Draco sighed and gave her a gentle kiss. Then he rubbed his eyes and nodded. “Alright, we’ll do this but one more broken bone and that’s it.”

“If you say so,” Hermione said and forced herself to go rigid when she felt a tremor try to overtake her.

“They’re a fine line between obsession and insanity,” Melody said cautiously. “You’re about to cross it.”

“You mean I haven’t already?” Hermione grinned and took her stance again, finally tuning out everyone else.

“Just like your fucking father.” Melody muttered and crossed her arms in a huff.

The couple laughed and started dancing again. Draco was very careful not to put any pressure on her ribs. He’d actually glossed over her injury. They weren’t just broken, they were shattered. This was stupid but she’d insisted, both in his mind and aloud. He’d sent her a picture of just how serious shape she was in but she sent her fears to him. It was enough to make him cave. She didn’t want to die because of some stupid mistake or shortcoming and he could hardly blame her.

When his back was to Severus, he felt it. It was the strongest curse he’d ever taken, his godfather apparently livid at their actions. He quickly shut down and tried to throw up a block but it was impossible. His mind was split between the shield, the doll, and keeping the pain link down while remaining as upright as possible. Hermione sent dozens of stunners but unlike last time, they just bounced straight off. It was then she knew that Severus had just been lightly testing him. This time, he meant business.

Growling, Hermione bent down and grabbed Draco, shifting him where his back was to the DA. Then she yanked his wrist up to her mouth and put her own in his. “Bite,” she commanded and he obeyed. The sweet taste of treacle tart and lime cordial assaulting their senses. The pain link prevented the pleasure from consuming them but the blood added sparks to their magic. It flowed like a wave through them and Hermione disengaged her fangs, quickly healing him and standing back up. Draco released at the same time and waited for what he knew would be a spectacular sight.

Hermione’s eyes glowed as she pointed her wand and scooted Melody over against the wall. Then she aimed at the floor and shot the earthquake spell at it, the stone rocking and cracking from its base. The cruciatis curse was broken and Draco spun around, muttering a blasting curse the same time Hermione did. Severus flew across the room and landed with a thud against the back wall. The spell proved to be too much and she collapsed on top of Draco, both going down in an exhausted heap of twitching limbs.

“You alright?” Melody called as she scrambled over the broken stones to get to Severus.

The dour man groaned and rubbed his head where it had hit the wall. “Shouldn’t have done that.”

Melody laughed. “You know better than to piss them off. You sure you’re okay?”

“Had worse.” Severus stumbled to his feet and then froze when he saw his children in a pile. “Fuck!” He yelled and worked his way over to them, checking them over.

Melody looked at them sadly. “They overdid it again.”

“Didn’t we tell them this would happen?”

Melody shrugged. “They were right. They needed this but it’s going to take a while for them to heal this time. Go get the stuff and I’ll repair the floor.”

Severus nodded and started to run out, only to hit the barrier and bounce back a few feet. He laughed despite the situation and knelt down next to his children. “Care to let me out?”

“Why not?” Draco said in a daze and leaned over to kiss his exhausted wife. “What do you say?”

“Keep a shield up,” Hermione groaned. “They’ll kill you if you don’t.”

“I’ll keep it in mind,” Severus said dryly and nodded his thanks when their shield fell. He ran through the room, neatly dodging a few hexes before he flew out the door. The entire DA converged upon the couple and a few started to corner Melody.

“STOP!” Harry screamed and ran to block the twin. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”

“They tried to kill them Harry!” Seamus cried and aimed his wand at Melody.

“We did no such thing,” Melody growled. “We were training.”

“You were using unforgivables!” Neville yelled.

“Part of it,” Melody shrugged. “They were aware of what they were doing. In case you didn’t notice, they begged for more.”

“They’re under some kind of spell!” Lavender called.

“Hardly,” Ginny growled and knelt down in front of the couple. “You guys okay?”

“It’ll be a few days before we’re back to normal.” Hermione grimaced and sat up. “But we’ll be fine.”

Severus came crashing through the door and barreled his way through the group. A few more hexes bounced off his shield, narrowly missing Melody. “Do that again, and the lot of you will find yourselves shackled to the wall before you can say quidditch!” He warned in a gravelly voice. The DA parted for the cloaked man who skidded across the floor on his knees. He opened the black case he was carrying and a bat flew out, turning into Alex.

“Damn,” Alex said sadly and began digging in the bag for a muggle IV kit. “No more Unforgivables you two. Any more and you’ll border on permanent damage.”

“Whatever doc, just fix it.” Draco groaned as a hard tremor worked its way through him.

“I’m not joking Draco,” Alex said gravely. “Wearing a permanent charm to protect against a punctured lung is no way to live.”

Draco paled. His mouth hung open for a moment before he snapped it shut.

“Didn’t think I knew huh?” Alex asked, petrifying Hermione so she’d be still long enough that he could stick her efficiently. “I’ll not begrudge you for it because I know it’s saved your ass more than once but once the war is over, you need to take it off. You’ll be breathing like a muggle smoker before long.”

“I’d rather be short of breath than without it,” Draco said darkly.

“Agreed,” Alex said and released the spell on Hermione. He pushed the medicine through the port and taped it up. Then he petrified Draco and repeated the procedure.

“Why does he need a permanent charm on his lungs?” Ron asked. They hadn’t noticed that he’d slipped in.

Hermione sighed. “He’d be dead without it.” She rubbed her fingers tenderly over his brow. “His life has been no picnic Ron.”

“Blimey. That’s drastic,” Seamus exclaimed as he shook his head in disbelief. “You said you’ve patched them up before?”

Alex nodded. “The last time was at the start of term. It’s hard to piss off a group of Death Eaters and escape unscathed.”

“What happened?” Neville asked timidly.

Harry sighed. “They won’t say but they were unconscious for the better part of two days.”

The group erupted in outrage before Harry quieted them. Parvarti stepped forward cautiously. “How long has Malfoy been on our side?”

“Since that incident in the bathroom last year,” Ginny spoke up. “He’s a spy. No one can know about him or we’ll lose him.”

“Like we lost Snape?” Dean asked darkly.

Melody snorted but remained silent as she chopped a few roots that Severus had handed her. They were busily making the Botox potion. Severus was stoically ignoring everyone.

“I can’t speak for Snape,” Harry said. “But Draco would never betray us.” The group gasped at the use of Malfoy’s first name.

“Thanks Potter,” Draco said weakly. Harry replied with a shrug.

Severus stood up. “Potion is ready.”

Alex nodded in acknowledgement. “Start on Draco. I’ve still got to fix her ribs.”

“No,” Draco protested and struggled to sit up. “Her first.”

“Calm down!” Severus snapped. “It makes no difference who we start on.”

“It does to me,” Draco growled.

“Draco, just lie down and let them tend to you,” Hermione pleaded. She sighed when Draco shook his head. “Please?”

Draco growled. “Fine. You always get everything you want, you know that?”

“Everything that matters,” Hermione said with a soft smile.

They worked quickly, healing broken bones and slathering the potion on the couple. When they were done, Severus snapped off his gloves. “I’ll start on the nerve regenerator now. It should be ready by tomorrow morning.”

“Thanks,” Alex said, running one last test. “Looks like we’ve got everything. You’ll need an alibi this weekend Draco.”

“I’ll take care of it,” Melody said and placed her hand on her stomach. “He’ll be accompanying me to see a healer.”

“Works for me,” Draco sighed and grimaced when he couldn’t lift his hand.

Melody chuckled. “Let’s get you into a hammock, shall we?”

“What’s wrong with them?” Neville asked as he watched Alex levitate the couple into a hammock.

“We’ve removed their nerve endings and relaxed their muscles,” Melody informed him as she helped Severus tidy up. “They’ll be unable to move until their nerves regrow.”

“That sounds horrible!” Padme cried.

“It’s actually quite nice,” Hermione sighed. “Hard to feel any pain when you don’t have any nerves.”

“Except we can’t bloody move,” Draco complained.

“Alex, shut them up,” Severus growled and handed him two vials of sleeping potion. “And make sure they aren’t disturbed.”

“Yes master,” Alex grinned.

“Don’t start,” Severus growled.

“I figured what was good for the goose…”

“How about a tan?” Severus asked lightly.

“Never cared for them,” Alex said lightly.

“Then I suggest you drop it.”

“Oh come on, give us a kiss.” Alex lunged for him.

“Over my dead body!” Severus dodged to the right and spun away from him.

“You didn’t say that before,” Alex murmured under his breath and walked over to the couple who were now laughing hysterically.

“Shut it you two,” Severus growled and stalked out of the room.

“Great. Now I’ll hear about it aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaall day long,” Melody gave a long suffering sigh.

“Man needs to lighten up,” Alex replied and tipped the vials down Hermione and Draco’s throats.

“He will, one way or another.” Melody’s reply was meant to be a joke but it felt like a weight settled into the room.

Alex grabbed her in a bear hug. “It’ll be fine. You’ll see.”

“Who was that?” Neville asked, his eyes locked on the door.

“A friend,” Melody said and pulled away from Alex. “The less you know about him, the better. I’ll leave you to it. Alex, you staying?”

“Until nightfall,” Alex nodded.

Melody nodded. “If anyone needs me…Harry and Ginny can reach me. Otherwise, stay out of trouble and avoid the Carrows at all costs. Now would be a good day to corner some of the younger years in the common rooms.” She marched out the door.

Several of the DA scattered after that. Some went to their common rooms to continue to catalog the younger years. Others went to the library to work on homework. Some went directly to the Heads of House to touch base. All but two went to McGonagall to work on golems.

“I know that voice,” Neville said after a while.

“Drop it Neville,” Harry warned.

“I can’t. I know who that was. Don’t you know?”

“We do Neville,” Luna laid a gentle hand on his shoulder. “Some things have to be taken on faith.”

“He’s a traitor. How could you let him do that to them?”

“Listen mate,” Ron cut in. “We don’t like it either but apparently, this training saved their lives last month.”

“Why do they need it?” Neville asked. “Why aren’t we being trained?”

“They’re special,” Harry said, gazing over at the couple who was now sleeping peacefully.

“I’ll believe it when I see it.” Neville shook his head and walked over to tend to his plants.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

“How are things?” Severus asked when Draco stepped through the door.

Hermione transformed back into her human form. “Everything is going to plan. All the golems are created and ready to step in tomorrow.”

“Your classmates?”

“Better than expected,” Draco said, taking a chair and pulling Hermione into it with him. “Ever since that day we took those Unforgivables, it’s like they’re looking at a new person.”

“Told you,” Melody smirked. She was practically lying on Alex in a big fluffy chair.

“Yes, you keep saying that,” Severus sighed. “Any other news?”

“Rumors are flying around Slytherin,” Celeste said in exhaustion. She was sitting on Severus’s lap, her head on his shoulder. “Seems Draco’s love life is the talk of the house.”

“Well, what else could I say?” Draco grimaced. Blaise had come to him after the weekend he spent numb and in a hammock under Hermione. He’d told him of all the rumors that were going on, the number one being that he’d turned traitor. Not one had believed that he went to the healer with Melody. Blaise had been commissioned to spread the story about having seen Draco shagging some poor young girl’s brains out all weekend. They latched onto the story like leeches, more than willing to believe Draco was a lecher rather than a traitor.

“I think it works in our favor,” Alex said softly. “You have an alibi for your training.”

“And it will be that much more spectacular when you rip Hermione’s mask off,” Ginny snickered.

“We should bring a camera.” Melody suppressed a giggle.

Severus chuckled. “It will be a moment to remember for a lifetime. However, I have some disturbing news. Lucius has decided to drop by as a…chaperone.”

Hermione went stiff in Draco’s arms. The dream came flooding back to her and she shuddered uncontrollably. “No,” she said in a small voice.

“We can take him out,” Draco said.

“Actually, I’ll take him out,” Severus said, licking his lips. “I’ll send you a penseive later.”

Draco chucked darkly. “I’ll keep it as a memento.”

Melody sniffed. “It’ll be a good one to show the kids. Anyway, for your last night, you’re all coming to the Ranch.”

Harry’s eyes lit up. “Brilliant!”

Melody grinned. “Thought you might like that. Ron, you can bring Luna if you like.”

“Actually…I was wondering if we could…stay here.” His cheeks were on fire as he stammered.

It was Severus who surprised them all with a booming laugh. “Figured if Draco could do it, you could too eh?”

“I…that’s not… I have no idea…no,” Ron stuttered and crossed his arms.

“I’ll not begrudge you a last night Weasley,” Severus said, a twinkle of amusement in his eye. “Just be sure to cast all the privacy charms we taught you. I don’t wish to be disturbed in the middle of the night because a little red weasel has managed to break into the Ravenclaw girls’ dorms.”

Ron’s mouth hung open in shock. Was Snape really giving him permission to spend the night with Luna?

“You do realize that you could have more privacy at the Ranch?” Melody cut in.

Ron’s mouth snapped shut and he shook his head. “I don’t want to overhear everyone else.”

“Understandable.” Alex flashed his fangs. “Well, if that’s all settled, we might want to be off. It’s still daylight in America but we’ll need to get some shut eye if we’re going to focus tomorrow.”

Melody snorted. “I’ll charm all the windows black.”

“Won’t that interfere with the charms on the house?” Harry asked.

“Not if I cast it from the outside.” Melody shrugged. “Everyone ready?”

They touched down right outside the front porch after they’d said their goodbyes to Ron. Harry immediately swung a giggling Ginny up into his arms and raced upstairs for his bedroom. The two couples laughed at his antics and began charming the windows black.

“Won’t Maria notice something off?” Hermione asked.

Melody chuckled. “If you think that in the thirty some odd years she’s lived here that she doesn’t know, you’re off your rocker. It’s just everyone else who’s clueless.”

“She’s known all along?” Draco asked.

Melody nodded. “She experienced our baby magic. After my parents swore we weren’t demons, she became quite fond of us.”

“Maria is a good woman,” Alex said. “Now, if you will excuse us.” He swept Melody off her feet and zipped inside in the blink of an eye.

Draco gave a low bow to Hermione. “My lady, it would honor me to escort you to the boudoir.”

Hermione blushed and put her hand in his offered one. “Why thank you kind sir.”

She sat on the bed and watched Draco light dozens of candles with a lighter. It had taken him a few tries to get the hang of the muggle device but he insisted that this was going to be a special night. Hermione admired his frame in the flicker of the soft lights. His skin practically glowed, the hummingbird tattoo glimmering. She couldn’t wait to peel the rest of his clothes off him.

Draco smirked, hearing her thoughts. “I thought we’d take it slow tonight. I want to worship every inch of you.” He grimaced at the sounds coming through the walls. “I think the Potters are trying to get in every minute they can.”

Hermione laughed humorlessly. “Can you blame them?”

“Not really.” Draco stalked slowly across the room. “I’d never leave your body if I could help it.”

“You’d have to sometime.”

“Yes, I suppose we might need to use the loo at some point but other than that, I see no reason. Everything else can be done…together.” He wiggled his eyebrows.

Hermione laughed and shook her head at his antics. She was surprised that she felt the same way. It was still somewhat surreal. This time last year, she was clinging to the hope that Ron would notice her and they’d have a white wedding and a muggle house with a picket fence and they’d all live happily ever after. Looking back, she realized she loved her life just like it was. She had a husband she loved who absolutely adored her. He’d take a hex for her and had proven it time and time again. What more could she possibly want?

“How about forever?” Draco asked and settled on the bed next to her.

“Forever sounds nice,” Hermione whispered and shifted to kiss his neck.

Draco let his head fall back as Hermione laved the sensitive skin of his jaw. His former future had been much darker than her vision. He pictured being trapped in a loveless marriage to an ugly pug-faced tart and playing lap dog to an evil madman and punching bag to his father. No, this future had already been more than he could ever ask for. A loving and perfect wife, a father that cared for him, real friends, a family, there was nothing else he wanted. Well, he wanted his mother back.

“We’ll get her,” Hermione whispered in his ear. “As soon as this war is over, we’ll give her the memories and then we’ll find my parents.”

Draco nodded and pushed her backwards on the bed. He hovered over her, tracing the contours of her face with one hand and following them with his lips. She was so beautiful. He didn’t deserve her but that wasn’t going to stop him. He peppered her face with kisses, making sure to worship each freckle and dimple.

Hermione sighed in pleasure and ran her hands up and down her husband’s back. His body was much more muscular than when they’d first married, the result of lots of hard training. She ran her hand through his shaggy hair. It had grown even longer during the summer. It was constantly in his face and she loved it, it’s silky smooth texture running through her fingers. She could hardly wait until it was long enough to put it back into a ponytail. Her fingers trailed over his jaw, feeling the stubble he hadn’t shaved off from the previous day. She wondered how he’d look with a mustache and beard and then wrinkled her nose at the thought. No, she preferred his face just like this.

Draco chuckled, savoring her thoughts. He decided he would let his hair grow, but not his beard. He nuzzled his nose in her throat and took a deep breath, the scent of treacle tart and Hermione filling his lungs. It was strange that he could smell her blood but he knew she was the only one he could do that with. He nibbled lightly on her ear and relished her soft gasp. He went so slowly he almost drove himself mad, tasting every inch of flesh, committing it to memory before he started undoing the buttons on her blouse.

“Too many clothes,” Hermione moaned and yanked impatiently at the buttons on his shirt.

“Patience.” Draco chuckled against her throat. “We’ve got all night.”

“And I want to spend the majority of it feeling you!” Hermione snapped and jerked harshly, giving a satisfied nod when the buttons went flying in every direction.

“Hey now. I need something to go back to school in,” Draco chided but happily let her help him out of his shirt.

“You’ve got trousers.” Hermione ran her hands all over his chest, fingers running over the silky almost white hairs trailing down his stomach to his waist band. She tried to open his flies but was stopped by one of his hands.

“And I’d like to keep them intact.” He laughed and undid the button himself. Then he set to work getting her out of her blouse. He stared appreciatively of the figure she cut, her black lace encased breasts making his mouth water. “That for me?”

“Always.” She cupped his aching member in her hand. “I believe this is mine.”

“For as long as you’ll have me,” Draco choked out, his breath hitched.

“Oh, I’m not going to let you go any time soon.” She smiled and reached up to run her tongue down his jaw line, tracing along the side of his neck and ending with a nip to his collar bone.

Draco groaned and grabbed the hand that was massaging him so expertly. If she kept it up, he’d explode like a virgin. He brought it up and pinned it with her other one above her head, raising an eyebrow at her protest. “You want to fight me?”

“I want to touch you,” Hermione growled.

“Mmm. I think you should wait.” Draco grabbed a green silk ribbon out of the night stand and wrapped it around her hands. “After all, the anticipation is the best part. You should savor it.”

“Why don’t you savor it?” Hermione bucked up, rubbing up against him with her thigh and dragging a growl from him.

“I’m going to.” Draco quickly tied her hands to the headboard. He slowly kissed his way down her arms and stopped to lick her nipples through her bra. He continued on, ignoring her protests. “You.” Kiss. “Are.” Kiss. “A delicacy.” Kiss. “One I.” Kiss. “Intend.” Kiss. “To enjoy.”

Hermione cried out in frustration. “I need more!”

“Don’t worry.” Draco rubbed soothing circles over her abdomen. “You’ll get plenty.”

“Draco, I – c-can’t handle this.”

“You can,” Draco said smugly and traced the runes around her navel with his tongue. He studied each and every one to make sure it hadn’t changed. It had become routine over the past month, each worried that it would change again and they’d have problems they didn’t need. He undid the snap of her jeans and tugged them off of her, making sure to keep his maddening pace and plant a few scant kisses down her legs.

“Draco, please?” She begged.

“Please what?” He planted wet kisses to her stomach, so much more firm than before. All those work outs had made her body tone and lithe. He loved it. He pictured what it would look like getting rounder, filling out with his child. The image took his breath away and he just barely stopped his trembling. She heard the thought anyway and she shook with emotions. “Someday,” he whispered and continued on his trek south, down her legs, worshiping her hips, behind her knees, the insides of her ankles, each dainty pink painted toe.

“Please?” Hermione begged over and over again. She just needed to touch him.

Draco sighed and unbound her hands. “So impatient.”

Hermione ignored his annoyed tone and flipped him over, tying his hands above his head before he could protest. It was her turn to torture him now. She wrenched his trousers and pants off of him in one go and stopped to admire the picture he presented. Flushed, panting, and horribly aroused, his chest heaved as he tried go get himself under control. His cock twitched from her treatment and the almost purple tip was weeping in excitement.

Hermione quirked a brow and let a lazy smile drift across her face. “You don’t look that patient to me.” She shimmied back up his lean frame and worshiped him with her tongue, ran her hands along the planes of his chest and hips. His tattoos became patterns to trace with her tongue, blowing across them when she’d finished mapping them out and smirking when his breath caught.

Draco was fighting a battle with himself, to jerk or not to jerk the ties loose. He knew he could snap through them easily but he really loved Hermione this way. She acted like he was the last lollipop on earth. Her sizzling hot tongue made his senses go crazy, hot to cold, massaging different places on his chest. He sucked in a sharp breath when she bit down on his nipple, willing himself not to come. “S-s-slow down!”

“You can handle it.” Hermione smirked and leaned forward to capture his mouth in a tender kiss. She mapped every inch of it, scouring it and delighting to find that the excitement had caused his fangs to extend. She traced over each one, sucking gently on his lips and pulling back to see the dazed look in his eye.

“You have no idea what you do to me,” Draco groaned and shifted, trying to dislodge her and keep her from rubbing up against him again. He wasn’t sure he could control himself much longer. A fang scraped down his hip and he arched off the bed. “STOP!”

“Or what?” Hermione licked down the scrape to heal it.

“This is going to be a very short night,” he panted.

“It doesn’t have to be.” The look in her eyes made his stomach flip over. She blew across the tip of his erection, eyes fluttering at the guttural groan he couldn’t hold in. With a deep breath, she engulfed the head in her blazing hot mouth, swirling her tongue around and around.

“N-no! I d-don’t want it to- to end l-like this!”

“Shhhh,” Hermione whispered, her lips barely brushing against the tip of his mushroomed head. “We have all night.”

Draco’s eyes rolled back in his head when she swallowed him again. Her delicate hand massaged his balls and one finger stroked his perineum. Unable to fight against it any more, his back arched off he bed again as he spilled his seed into her willing mouth. He was unable to control his shudders as she licked him clean.

“Fuck,” he breathed after a while. “You’ll pay for that you little minx.”

“I’m counting on it.”

Hermione’s voice was hoarse and he felt his stomach clench at the sound. She released him from his flimsy prison and he took that opportunity to flip her over. He made quick work of her undergarments because they’d only be in the way of what he was about to do. This time, he grabbed the hemp rope that he’d snuck with them and tied her hands together. Then he threw the rope under the mattress and crawled underneath to retrieve it at the footboard. Then he tied her ankles separately and tightened the ropes so she was spread eagle on the bed. His eyes darkened at the sight.

Hermione’s breath caught at the feral look in her husband’s eye. He looked as though he could eat her alive. The heady smell of the hemp combined with the smell of sex and something that was uniquely Draco overwhelmed her. She struggled against the ropes and felt them shift over her delicate joints, making goose bumps break out all over her body. Draco started the same torturous path she took, down her arms, stopping to tease her pebbled nipples.

Draco watched his wife’s face carefully, searching for the spot that would make her lose herself. He trailed his fingers over her small frame, cataloging every gasp, sigh, and soft moan. When he finally got to his prize, she was moving her head back and forth, pleading for him to take her. With a small grin, he lowered his face to her mound, nuzzling her clit with his nose. She wailed loudly, her eyes snapping shut in overwhelming pleasure.

He kissed, licked, nibbled, and brought his fingers up to tease her slit. The sounds she emitted were music to his ears. She begged him to stop, claimed the sensations were too much, pleaded with him to take her but he ignored her cries. He plunged two fingers into her tight heat and massaged the spot he knew would make her come undone. She rocked her hips so hard he had to hold her down. The vision she presented had him hard again but he was going to make sure she came first.

Hermione was shaking from the pleasure; Draco’s hot breath and powerful tongue combined with his nimble fingers were proving to be her kryptonite. Her nerves stretched entirely too tight and then she felt it. The string snapped, pleasure surging through her entire body. She called out Draco’s name, fighting against her bonds so she could hold him. He continued to lick her clean until the tremors stopped.

Draco looked up at his wife, his lids heavy with lust. She was an angel; he was sure of it. He quickly untied her and lowered himself on top of her. “How’s that for patient?”

Hermione managed a small moan before she pulled him down to devour his mouth. Their flavors combined and made them unbearably aroused once again. Unable to hold back, Draco slid home in one thrust, groaning in pleasure. There could be nothing that compared to the feeling of being inside his wife. He moved slowly, wanting to savor every sigh, every touch, every moment because it could be their last.

Hermione stared into Draco’s eyes, opening her mind, her heart, and her body to accept everything that he was. She could feel him do the same. Visions flashed through her head, a badly spliced movie of their childhoods, just like it was in the bathroom. To think, they were once terrified at the notion of knowing everything about each other. Now it seemed they were empty without it.

Their slow pace had picked up without either realizing it, a brutal joining racing towards an explosive finish. For the first time ever, their pleasure peaked at the exact same time and they drown in the ecstasy. On instinct, their fangs descended and they sucked down each other’s blood, letting the sensations overtake them until darkness descended.

AN: Hello everybody! Bet you didn't expect to see me again so soon. Now that class is over, I got a chance to plop my ass down and just...write! You know what irks me? My computer won't let me use UK spellings. I had a hell of an argument with it but it won. *scowls like Snape* I was going to wait until tomorrow to post this chapter but I saw questions and I couldn't stand it anymore.

Question: When everyone is waiting outside the ROR for Draco to destroy the horcrux, Hermoine turns into her animagus form but earlier it was explained that a persons animagus would set off the wards and the identity of the animagus would be reported to Voldemort. Did i miss something?

Answer: Yes. and No. I should probably kick myself for leaving it out BUT the answer is (if you didn't already catch it in this chapter) Melody was bending the wards so they wouldn't see Hermione. Remember, she can bend one at a time. Any one of them can bend the wards one at a time but they can't use enough power to bend all of them or they'll set off an alarm. Hope that answers your questions.

Question: Can you write a Harry/Ginny fic?

Answer: Yes! I'll have it out before the end, I promise.

So, that leaves us with this chapter. I cringed when I wrote their training, but it had to be done so that the Light side would soften towards Draco. I anticipate 3 more chapters and then maybe an epilogue. Who knows, I might get a wild hair and write more. I'm so sad to see it end but it's been a great ride. Your reviews are like chocolate to my soul. :) Keep them coming and let me know how I'm doing and if you find any errors. Until next time... love you guys!
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