Moving On | By : goldhorse Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Snape/Hermione Views: 17916 -:- Recommendations : 2 -:- Currently Reading : 0 |
Disclaimer: I do not own HP, JKR does, the lucky dog. I make no money doing this, which is why I'm dead broke. |
AN: Sorry guys. My dear muse wouldn't let me write another thing until I got this one out of my head. It can be read as a stand alone peice but it is a sequel to Letting Go. Enjoy:
Hermione absentmindedly stirred her straw around her drink as she took in the sights and sounds around her. This wasn’t her first time at the club by any means, but each time was a treat. The Knotted Vixen was a high class BDSM and fetish club for those who wished to mingle with like-minded individuals. They catered to muggle and magical alike and, as a result, magic was only allowed in one of the many private rooms. They offered educational demonstrations for all levels and prided themselves on safety and secrecy.
There were strict rules one must abide by at all times:
1) All activities must be completely consensual
2) All participants must respect others’ wishes to remain anonymous
3) No client will ever utter a word about what they see inside the club
All magical members swore an oath at the door and all muggles were subjected to an undetectable secrecy charm that would render them mute and unable to write for the rest of their natural born life should they break the rules. Muggles were told a different story of course, but the outcome as the same. Mob or not, they weren’t going to talk.
“Hello, love. You look positively miserable.”
Hermione turned and gave a halfhearted smile to the man who spoke, Draco Malfoy. Their friendship was a bizarre one, based on his incessant need to apologize for his actions during the war and his ability to keep his mouth shut. After their initial apprenticeship with Snape their eight year, the Potion Master agreed to mentor them both for the next three so they could get their licenses. They had just completed their testing, placing first and second among all the newest masters. Much to her chagrin, she was second but she didn’t mind too terribly. Draco was truly gifted at potion making, a natural, almost an instinct for him.
“He did it again.”
Draco narrowed his eyes in anger. “Don’t tell me that wanker came on to you again.”
Hermione sighed. “Worse.”
“WHAT?” Draco roared. Since Hermione had forgiven him, they’d gotten very close, even closer than her relationship with the Chosen One. He thought of her as a sister…an annoying know-it-all one but a sister just the same. He was sometimes overly protective of her but she found she didn’t mind. After all, compared to her Master, he was quite tame.
“Calm down,” Hermione snapped. She didn’t want to go through this.
“Why should I?” Draco barked. “If he touched you, I’ll gut him.”
Hermione shook her head. “No, he didn’t touch me. Well, yes he did actually, but not like that.”
“Hermione love, you’re going to have to tell me what happened or I swear I’m going to have a coronary.”
“He proposed!” Hermione screeched, unable to suppress her outrage anymore. “In front of his entire family! He had a ring, pulled me into the middle of the bloody room and got down on one knee and PROPOSED! The entire Weasley clan was there, smiling like a bunch of lunatics. He even called Rita Skeeter to witness the moment!”
“I’ll kill him,” Draco said darkly.
Hermione rubbed the bridge of her nose in frustration. “It took everything I had not to.”
Draco gave her an evil smirk. “You didn’t blow anyone up, did you?”
“No,” Hermione sighed. Draco was one of the very few people who knew that she didn’t have complete control of her magic. It was an ongoing battle since the war, trying to keep it under control. Her Master had done wonders for her, but her emotions were still erratic at times and her magic was apparently linked to them. It drove her crazy but it was her lot in life.
“Shame,” Draco said dryly.
“Where’s your other half, anyway?” Hermione asked, trying to change the subject. The less the thought about Ron Weasley, the better.
“Oh, she’s in the back changing into her harness. She said something about warding it against wrackspurts.”
Hermione smiled widely. “You’re going to teach tonight?”
Draco nodded. “She finally talked me into it.”
“It’s about bloody time,” Hermione scoffed. “You’re a very talented Dom Draco. People could learn a lot from you.”
“Well, thanks for that, but I believe your Master takes the cake.”
Hermione couldn’t help the blush that stole across her face. She cleared her throat uncomfortably. “Well, I’d have to take your word on that.”
Draco frowned. “What do you mean?”
Hermione sighed. “It’s just that…I…he’s…well, we play but…he’s not mine…not really.”
“Trust me Hermione, he’s most definitely yours.”
She shook her head. “No, I’m his. He is not mine.”
“He told you this, did he?” Draco asked with a raised eyebrow.
Hermione stared miserably into her cup. “No…his last sub did.”
Draco spluttered in his drink, coughing to clear his throat in shock. “When in the bloody hell did you meet her?”
“Two weeks ago,” Hermione said softly. “She cornered me in the ladies, told me that she still had his collar and that I was a mere plaything to pass the time. Then she sashayed out, grabbed Master by the arm, and led him off into a private room. I waited for half an hour but he never came back out. I… haven’t seen him since.”
“That’s ridiculous,” Draco snapped. “We just saw him this morning.”
“No, I mean…I haven’t seen him.”
Draco’s mouth dropped open before he promptly slammed it shut and shook his head fiercely. “No. It’s not like that. I just know it. He wouldn’t do that. He’s not a casual player Hermione. Once he commits to a woman, he sticks with her until the very end and he makes sure to declare an end, trust me.”
Hermione merely shrugged. She was tired of mulling it over. When he hadn’t come out of the room, she ran out of the club and apparated straight to her flat which she kept mainly for appearances. Severus Snape was a private man and the last thing he needed was the bloody papers getting a whiff of their unorthodox relationship. She had only seen a passing glance of him since. Granted, the past few weeks had been spent at the potion’s convention. Brewing, written tests, and presentations had taken up most of her time. Still, it broke her heart all over again each time he breezed by.
“Hey,” Draco said to catch her attention. She refused, keeping her eyes downcast. A hand under her chin wouldn’t let her. “Trust me love, he is yours.”
Hermione sniffed and yanked her chin away from his hand, a reflex reaction by now. Her Master forbid her from letting other wizards touch her in an intimate manner. He was more forgiving of Draco since he knew his godson had no designs on her whatsoever but he still didn’t like it. “Whatever Draco.”
“Hello Hermione,” a soft voice filled her ears.
Hermione managed to give the woman a half smile. “Hello Luna. You look lovely.”
“Thank you,” Luna said serenely, running her hands over her stylish red dress. “I had quite a time trying to get all the straps covered.”
Hermione chuckled. “I couldn’t imagine. I’ve never worn a harness before.”
“Really?” Draco asked with wide eyes.
“It…it scares me,” Hermione said softly.
“It’s amazing!” Luna said breezily. “And they are easier to get out of than rope. It’s so soft and comfortable.”
Hermione smiled at her friend. Luna had the most amazing ability to take something horrifyingly frightening and make it sound like it was as benign as picking flowers in a meadow. She glanced down and realized that Luna had taken off her wedding ring. That meant they were going to be anonymous tonight. She didn’t want to miss their demonstration though. Despite her rather rocky love life, she really wanted to learn everything there was to know about bondage and suspension.
“Oh, isn’t that Ron?” Luna asked, breaking into Hermione’s thoughts. She whipped her head around to the front door. Sure enough, there was Ron…standing next to Harry and Ginny.
“I’m buggered,” Hermione moaned.
Draco scowled. “How in the fuck did he get in here? It’s by invitation only.”
“Harry was invited several months ago,” Hermione sighed. “And I suppose he invited Ron.”
“He looks a little…perturbed,” Luna said as she plopped down in front of Hermione, effectively blocking the line of sight.
“He, um, only proposed a few hours ago.”
Draco smirked. “Still smarting from you telling him no then.”
Hermione felt like she was going to be sick. She shook her head at a loss. “I didn’t say anything. I just…ran. I ran until I hit the edge of the wards and then I apparated straight here. I didn’t have my admittance I.D. with me when I got here. They let me in since we’re regulars but…oh Merlin. I must have dropped it.”
Draco groaned. “Well, only members can read them so I suspect Potter read it and told Ron about it.”
“What am I going to do?” Hermione said frantically.
“First, you’re going to calm down,” Draco said firmly. He pressed a white beaded mask into her hand. “Then you are going to put that on, pin your hair up, and act like you have no clue who they are.”
Hermione nodded and did what she was told. She desperately hoped they didn’t recognize her but her bad luck seemed to be holding. They walked straight over to the table.
“Malfoy? You’re into this?” Ron asked incredulously.
“I’m here,” Draco said sarcastically. “And you’re here as well Weaslebee. What does that make you?”
Ron scowled. “I-I’m looking for Hermione.”
Draco quirked an eyebrow. “And what makes you think she’s here?”
Harry handed him her I.D. “This.”
Draco took it and schooled his face into one of shock. Then he split into a wide grin. “Never thought she had it in her, but you know they don’t let you in this place without I.D.”
Ron snorted. “They let me in.”
“After they made a badge for you,” Draco scoffed.
Harry held his arm up to stave off whatever stupid comment Ron was about to make. “Look Malfoy, we need to find Hermione. She’s…well, she looked upset the last time we saw her and....Look, have you seen her?”
Draco shrugged. “Sorry Potter, haven’t seen her. She bailed after we passed the Potion Master certification and I haven’t seen her since.”
“Luna?” Ginny asked. She’d remained silent but seeing her friend gave her some hope.
“Sorry Ginny,” Luna said with a surprisingly serious face. “Nothing.”
“Who’s this then?” Ron asked and made to grab Hermione’s mask.
“Watch it,” Draco hissed, swatting Ron’s hand away. “She belongs to another master who will hex you to hell and back if you touch her. Besides, you’ll lose your ability to communicate if you remove that mask.”
“What? Why?”
“Didn’t you pay attention to the rules, Ron?” Harry asked. “You aren’t allowed to out anonymous people.”
“Bloody stupid rule, if you ask me,” Ron scoffed.
“I don’t think so,” Harry said softly. “I know I’m glad no one can say where I am right now.”
Draco cocked his head. “You should come here more often Potter. It’s not all about sex. There’s drinking, dancing, and they serve good food as well. Think of it as a chance to be alone for once.”
“Alone?” Ron sneered. “Are you bloody blind? This place is packed.”
“And yet,” Draco countered, “not one person has bothered Potter yet. Sure, they’ve taken note of him, but no one will approach him and no one will tell. How much more private can you get, being the Chosen One?”
“He’s right,” Ginny said softly as she looked around. “No cameras, no one running up and demanding an autograph, and no screaming fan girls.”
“Precisely,” Draco said promptly. “It’s why I like to come here. Bloody reporters are exhausting. It’s nice to spend some quality time with my wife.”
Ron had just about had enough of the conversation. “Look Malfoy, I bloody well know she’s here. I’m going to find her.”
“Careful Weasley,” Draco warned. “One slip up and you’ll be out on your arse, a mute for the rest of your life…if they don’t strip your magic for extra precaution.”
“That’s illegal!” Ron cried.
Draco shrugged. “You didn’t have to sign the contract.”
Ron huffed and stalked off, taking note of everyone around. Hermione, on the other hand, was sitting stalk still, afraid to move for fear of giving herself away. She watched as he made his way through the tables, calling out loudly for her. Two bounces walked over and dragged him over to the side.
“Told him to watch it,” Draco muttered as Ron got his arse chewed out.
Harry sighed. “He’s just a bit beside himself. He proposed to Hermione and she ran out.”
Draco glared. “He’s not even dating her. Why on earth would he propose?”
Harry threw his hands up in the air. “I honestly don’t know. She’s made it quite clear that he’s only a friend and that she’s seeing someone else, though she won’t specify who.”
“What business is it of yours if she wants to keep her lover secret?” Draco asked, honestly curious.
Harry motioned to the chair beside Luna. When Draco nodded, he plopped down in it, pulling the one beside Hermione out for Ginny. “She’s my best friend. I just…I want to make sure he’s treating her right.”
“I doubt Granger would let someone treat her badly, Potter. She’s a big girl. She can take care of herself.”
Harry sighed. “I know that but can’t help but want to protect her.”
Draco rubbed his temples in frustration. “Look Potter, she’s fine, really.”
Harry’s head shot up. “You know who he is?”
Draco nodded. “I do…BUT, I’m not telling you. That is her place, not mine. I can tell you that he adores her and he’ll do everything he can to keep from hurting her.”
Hermione tried to hold back the sob that threatened to escape. Her Master might like her alright, but he certainly didn’t adore her…and he’d already hurt her so deeply she wasn’t sure she would ever recover. She’d come to terms years ago that she’d fallen in love with him. Of course, she hadn’t voiced her feelings aloud but he had to know. It wasn’t as if she could hide from him. He was everywhere, under her skin. She sighed when Luna took her hand in a comforting gesture. She had a certain knack for understanding what was wrong.
A ding sounded out. Draco took out his watch and frowned. “That’s us. Look Potter, we’ve got to be somewhere. Feel free to stick around, enjoy the place. Merlin knows you can finally have a decent conversation with your wife without someone sticking a quill in your face.”
Harry nodded and looked at Ginny. “I think we will.”
Draco gave a returning nod. “See you later then. Come dear, we must be going. Oh, you too love. I have something special for you.”
Hermione jumped in shock when Draco offered her his hand. She took it eagerly, not wanting to be left alone with Harry and Ginny. The way Harry was looking at her, she was sure he’d figured out who she was. If there was one thing she loved about Harry, it was his ability to understand when a person wanted to be left alone. She followed Draco around backstage and gazed around curiously at the scene that he had set up.
Draco spun and led her to a chair on the side of the stage. “You get a front row seat. I know how much you wanted to see this.”
Hermione smiled, grateful at his insight. She really had been dying to see this. Luna plopped down beside her and handed her a red vinyl mask. It would cover everything but her lips and neck, successfully concealing her identity from everyone.
“Could you help me put it on? I’m always so dreadful at it.”
“Sure,” Hermione said softly. Her Master often wore masks like these to conceal his identity when they came here. The front desk knew who he was, but no one else did. They just knew she was his…His. She shook her head to refocus and carefully drew the mask over Luna’s face, making sure to tuck her hair in before zipping it up. “There.”
“Thanks!” Luna said brightly before her mouth fell open. “Oh my.”
Hermione looked up and jumped in shock. She’d never seen Draco sans shirt before. He certainly didn’t have anything to be ashamed of. A defined alabaster chest free of hair except a few downy curls leading into his trousers made him look like a Greek god. He was wearing leather pants that left nothing to the imagination. When he turned to get Luna to help with his mask, she was treated to a view of his rather impressive backside. He was no Severus, but he was absolutely gorgeous. She was happy for Luna to get such a fine specimen.
“Now then,” Draco purred when he’d been masked. “Dress off, darling.”
Hermione wanted to cry as she watched him tenderly kiss his wife and then help her step out of her dress. She was wearing a shiny black suspension halter, a custom one that framed her breasts and hugged her frame perfectly. They were such a lovely couple. Love radiated from both of them as they stared at each other. She felt as if she were intruding on a highly intimate moment and averted her eyes. The curtain opened, startling her.
“Ladies and gentlemen, we have a treat for you tonight. First, we are going to have a lesson in intricate knots taught by Master Serpent. Then we’ll witness a suspension scene with Master Dragon and his lovely sub. For desert, we have a surprise for you all, so sit back, relax, and enjoy.”
Hermione thought she was going to be sick. She knew exactly who Master Serpent was, her Master. At the Knotted Vixen, each presenting Master had the choice to go by their given name or one of their choosing. Since Severus was the head of the snakes, he chose the serpent. He’d given several small rope tying demonstrations since they’d been together, each time choosing to work with a dummy rather than her. He said he didn’t want to make her uncomfortable and he knew how much she hated the spotlight. Now though, she wondered if he would be using the other sub, the one wearing his collar.
That thought made her blood boil. Never, in the four years they had been together, had he offered to collar her. Then again, he’d said from the beginning that while he preferred monogamous relationships, he refused to make a long term commitment. He was much more comfortable with taking each day as it passed and at the time, so was she. As their relationship progressed and he’d helped her get her magic under control, she’d come to long for the day he’d make the offer. Knowing it would never come was always something she simply chose not to think about. The fact that someone was wearing his collar made everything else make more sense.
Heavy footfalls alerted her to Master Serpent’s arrival. She couldn’t help but look up at him. It was drilled into her. He was as wonderful as ever, clad in leather trousers, a silk shirt, and a leather duster that matched his leather mask. He sat out a chair and several lengths of rope, all in Slytherin green of course. She debated whether or not to get out of her chair. On one hand, if she stayed still, it was possible he wouldn’t notice. If she moved though, she could guarantee he wouldn’t see her. Before she could make a decision, he stalked over to her. She almost let out a scream but managed to keep her mouth clamped shut.
“I shall need an assistant for this one,” Severus drawled. “If you would.”
Hermione wanted to run, as fast and as far as she could go but she knew it was impossible. For being twenty years her senior, Severus was spry. Faster, stronger, and ultimately sneakier, she wouldn’t stand a chance with him. It was with a heavy heart that she placed her trembling hand into his and walked over to the chair in the middle of the stage.
“Why are you wearing a mask?” he asked under his breath as he sat her down.
She refused to answer him verbally, merely staring past him to a now very interested Ron. He had apparently been subdued and was now sitting beside Harry and Ginny. Severus growled at her blatant disrespect but turned just the same. His growl turned into a hiss as he turned back around and began taking off her shoes and stockings. She’d ruined more than one pair of stockings by his overzealousness and was glad that he at least had the courtesy to remove them in public.
He spun around and began stalking a circle around her. “Some of you might have realized that my assistant tonight is, in fact, human.” Dull laughter sounded out. “Today, I will be discussing the finer points of binding individual fingers and toes. I am aware that her hands are quite tiny so I would ask that the camera be placed on her for easier viewing. I’ll resume when that’s done.”
A man over to the side nodded and ran out to go find one. While he was gone, Severus knelt down in front of her and grabbed her chin a little harder than necessary. “Why did you run out on me?”
Hermione gulped and tried to break free, only to give up a few seconds later. It really was no use. She finally let the tears fall, droplets spilling down her cheeks under the loose mask. “You took a sub to a room and didn’t return. Since she was wearing your collar, I assumed we were done.”
Severus reeled back in shock. “What are you on about?”
“Look, she cornered me in the loo, told me about your time with her, and-and that she still wore your collar. She said I was just your plaything and that you belonged to her. I saw you. You took her to a room. I waited for half an hour and you didn’t return…so I figured you’d made your choice and left.”
Severus shut his eyes and nodded. Before he could say anything else, the camera man returned. He hastily wiped her tears away and pulled out a length of delicate red and gold rope. He wrapped her wrists with the rope while he spoke in a loud, even tone.
“This particular method of bondage is called a hand trap and is similar to the metal devices you can buy. I prefer this method because of its flexibility. If you’ll notice, my assistant’s hands are rather delicate and slender. I wish to tie my ropes so that they not only constrict hand movement, but also accentuate their beauty.”
He continued on in the soothing voice, wrapping several lengths of rope around each of her fingers and then ending with several intricate knots that brought attention to her hands. It was…beautiful. The rope glittered in the lights and made her hands look like they were made of china. Satisfied with his work, he held them up for everyone to admire.
To Hermione’s horror, the entire scene had turned her on horribly. His deft fingers working the rope back and forth against her sensitive fingers, brushing her palms, caressing her knuckles, had aroused her. Each touch seemed to bring her to a higher awareness to the point that she felt each warm breath upon them. Tears had started to flow down her face, the wonderful sensations and the beauty of the tie coupled with the fact that they were done had created a maelstrom in her heart. When the clapping died down, she went to get up but was held in place.
“Next, we will move to the feet,” Severus drawled.
Hermione was in her very own personal hell. The bloody bastard knew that her feet were her weakness. All he had to do to get into her knickers was rub her feet and she was putty. He grabbed the green rope this time and she noticed that it was shot through with silver. Damn Slytherins. This time, he seemed to relish the agonizingly slow pace he set. Each time the rope brushed between her toes, she felt like screaming. When her toes were secure, he wrapped each foot up to the ankle before tying it in a knot. Then he ran lengths around and laced the rope up to her knees, where he ended with another beautiful knot.
Her modest white baby doll dress was soaked by the time he was finished, adding to her mortification. Even after he’d clearly chosen another, she still wanted him. Her heart broke again and more tears flowed. She barely heard him answering questions. It was just as well. His voice was like an aphrodisiac. The sadistic prick knew she loved his voice. She could almost come from it alone, the rich baritone washing over her like liquid sex. Clapping startled her out of her reverie. It had arrived. Time to embarrass herself and show everyone just how turned on she was.
Before she could so much as twitch, Severus yanked her out of the chair and carried her off bridal style. He sat down in the chair she had occupied previously and positioned her in his lap so she could watch the stage. It only took moments for the crew to move out the chair and bring in the suspension device Draco would be hanging Luna from. Hermione wanted to watch this but sitting on her Master’s lap was distracting. For one thing, she could feel his erection prodding her backside, almost begging to be let in.
“Good evening everyone,” Draco purred. She could tell he was using a slight modification spell on his voice. “Tonight, I will be demonstrating proper techniques for using a suspension harness and chains.”
Hermione almost forgot where she was as she watched Draco string Luna up with utmost care, taking time to make sure the chains weren’t cutting her before moving on to the next one. In addition to the chains and hooks, he used several ropes and leather cuffs to bind her arms together behind her back and her legs in a beautiful crossed pose above her head. Every now and then, he would stop to place kisses on her skin or caress a certain knot. She almost wet herself when Draco reached up on his tiptoes and delivered the hottest upside down kiss she’d ever seen. They would certainly be moving to a room after this.
“I did make my choice.”
Hermione was thankful that Severus clamped his hand over her mouth or she would have shouted at the sudden words. Then the words actually sunk in and she slumped. This was it. He was breaking it off.
He put his lips right to her ear. “I took her in that room to pry that collar off her neck. Then I proceeded to hex her seven ways from Sunday for her audacity to touch me as if I belonged to her.”
Hermione quit breathing. He did what?
“Hermione, I gave her that collar when I was young and ignorant. She was my first long term sub, a manipulative little wench who only played at being submissive. I broke it off with her almost two decades ago but she ran before I could collect my collar. She’s been haunting me ever since.”
Hermione turned to look her Master in the eye. “Why didn’t you say something?”
Severus sighed. “I was worried when I could not find you and deduced that you’d left, most likely upset at my disappearance. I did not know you had watched the entire thing. When I saw you next, it was your exam and I wasn’t allowed to speak with you the way I wanted to. If they knew we had a relationship, they would accuse you of cheating, which was hardly the case. You earned every inch and I was never so proud as when you got your certification.”
Hermione nodded, more tears threating to fall from her face, only these were happy. “So you…you still…want me?”
Severus sighed and nodded. “Of course, if you’ll have me.”
Hermione gave him a bright smile and then started when the room burst into raucous clapping and catcalls. Draco was demonstrating the different ways one could have sex during the suspension. Currently, he had Luna’s legs bent all the way up against her body and was gently rocking her barely covered arse into his leather clad crotch. She noticed Ron was one of the louder members of the crowd and cringed.
“What are Weasley and Potter doing here?” Severus drawled in her ear.
Hermione sighed, cursing herself for being so stupid. “I’d rather not say at the moment.”
“Why?” Severus’s voice dropped dangerously low. “He didn’t touch you did he?”
Hermione groaned. “Worse. He proposed…in front of everyone...including Rita Skeeter.”
Severus tensed his whole body, trying to reign in his temper. “I’ll hex his bits off.”
“It’s even worse than that,” Hermione squeaked and almost cried at his pursed lips. “I didn’t tell him no! I was just so bloody upset, I ran out of the house. I came straight here but I dropped my I.D. on the way. I’m lucky they let me in. I just…I wanted to kill him and then he came here looking for me and Draco gave me this mask to hide behind.” She huffed and then tried to bury her face in her still bound hands. He stopped her and turned her in his lap so he could hold her.
“Shhh,” Severus whispered in her ear when she started sobbing. She’d been on a roller coaster and it was all hitting her right then. “It’s alright. We’ll straighten it out.”
“I-I’m so s-sorry.”
“It isn’t your fault Weasley is a dunderhead. I believe we’ll just have to show him that it’s time to move on.”
“What more can we do?” Hermione snapped. “I’ve already sat him down and told him point blank that I was seeing someone else, that we’d never be more than friends, that I only thought of him in the most platonic way possible…and he proposed!”
Severus smirked, his eyes alight with malicious glee. “Perhaps seeing is believing.”
“What?” Hermione asked in confusion.
“If he were to see you with said romantic interest, perhaps he would get the message.”
Hermione’s jaw dropped. “You-but-we…secret?”
Severus placed a tender kiss on the top of her head. “I have no wish to remain in the shadows any longer Hermione.”
“You’d do that? For me?”
“You’ll find I would do a whole host of things for you. However, there is one thing I wish you to do for me?”
“What?” Hermione asked, her eyes wide with wonder.
“Join me on stage on last time? I wish to enjoy you while the entire room watches.”
“What?” Hermione squeaked. “You mean…s-sex…in public?”
“Actually, no,” Severus said with a frown. “I couldn’t stand for anyone to see you in your full glory. I suspect that is why Draco has Luna wearing undergarments and obscuring charms. He shares my wishes to keep his sub to himself.”
“So what do you mean?”
Severus smiled. “I want it to be a surprise. I’ll even take the ropes off. What say you?”
Hermione could only nod dumbly. What on earth was he going to do? Loud whistles and clapping drew her attention back to the stage. Draco had unhooked Luna and both were taking a bow. He picked her up and carried her off stage, aware that her legs were quite weak from their demonstration. He gave them a smirk as they walked by.
“I take it you made up?”
Hermione nodded shyly.
“Congratulations,” Luna said softly and snuggled up to Draco.
“Here,” Severus said, getting up and taking Hermione with him. “You may have the front row seat this time.”
Hermione was about to ask what was going on again when the announcer came back on.
“Well, I think we can all say that was a spectacular and titillating performance by Master Dragon and his very lovely sub. Let’s give him a hand! Now, I promised you all a surprise and you’re going to get it. Master Serpent has agreed to do an encore of his first performance…and he has a surprise of his own. Please welcome him back on stage.”
Severus carried her on the stage as if she weighed less than a feather. She was proud that he’d made a full recovery from Nagini’s bite. He sat her down on the stage and arranged her so she could kneel at his feet. It was quite awkward, the rope biting into her legs, but deliciously painful in a pleasurable way too.
“I realize that I have been remiss in my teachings. I always demonstrate the proper techniques in creating ties, but I have neglected to show you the removal process. It is just as important, perhaps more so as this is the time to worship your sub, show them how much you care for them. I had a revelation recently that I have been sadly lacking in this area.”
He pulled something out of his pocket. Hermione recognized it at the collar the sub that had cornered her in the bathroom was wearing. “This is the collar from my last sub, a rather nasty wench who refused to honor the ending of our relationship. This infernal thing damn near made me lose the most dear thing to me in the world, my pet.”
Hermione gasped as he took out a lighter and set the collar on fire, waiting until the flames were licking at his hands before he dropped it in a nearby waste bin. He walked back over and stood in front of her, an odd look on his face before he knelt on the ground before her.
“My beautiful pet, I’m afraid you’ll have to stay tied a bit longer. You see, I realize you have a penchant for running and I wish to be heard.”
Hermione blushed and looked down, only to be reprimanded by a tug on her chin.
“You will look at me when I say this. I am not an overly affectionate man, spouting meaningless platitudes and flowery phrases designed to flatter. In fact, I am a callous and bitter old bastard that has clung desperately to his solitude for far too long. I realized these past few weeks that if I didn’t tell you how I felt, I would lose you. I love you, my pet. Trust me when I say that I haven’t uttered those words to another living soul. They are true though and I would be most honored if you would accept my collar.”
With that, he pulled out the most beautiful choker she’d ever seen in her life. She brought her hands to her mouth in shock. It was made of a thick band of white gold, encrusted with emeralds and rubies, and had a delicate diamond serpent charm dangling from it. He flipped the snake over and she could see the words engraved on it: Property of Severus Snape.
“I had this one made especially for you, to embody us as one entity for as long as you’ll have me. This also serves as an engagement of sorts, as I intend to make an honest woman out of you. What say you?”
Hermione was at a loss for words. Not only had she been completely wrong about his intentions, she’d been completely wrong about his feelings as well. It didn’t take a genius to figure out that Snape hated public affairs. He was, however, a man of his word, and the fact that he’d said all these things in public had validated them more than a private meeting ever could. She saw him swallow nervously and realized she hadn’t given him an answer yet. Still unable to speak, she nodded her head vigorously.
Severus breathed a sigh of relief and snapped the choker around her neck, fingering the charm before caressing her jaw. He planted the sweetest kiss she’d ever experienced on her lips. She couldn’t help but deepen it. She’d missed him so much. He grabbed the back of her hair and tugged, undoing the bun she’d put it in, and slid his tongue in her mouth. Oh he was so very talented with that tongue as well. She didn’t register the cat calls, the whistles, or the clapping and cheering. It wasn’t until they heard laughter than they pulled away, both a bit flush and wearing matching sheepish grins.
He cleared his throat and stood again, bringing her with him to sit her on a chair. “Now, as I said, removing the ropes is just as important as placing them. You must be careful not to put any more strain on your sub. Remember, they’ve already been pushed to their limit by this point in time. There are two methods to undoing your ties. You can work backwards, or you can start from the most strained body part. Keep in mind that the ropes will tangle if you don’t take care. Massaging the area to increase blood flow is also a good idea.”
Hermione let the sensations wash over her. His nimble fingers undid each knot precisely, working backwards from her knees down to her ankles and then her feet. He always took his time untying her, making sure to massage her aching muscles and caress her tender skin. This time, he murmured how beautiful she looked and punctuated each phrase with a chaste kiss to the marks on her skin. Tears flowed again and she cursed herself for her overly emotional state. She thought she’d come as he kissed the instep of her foot while running his hand up her leg.
She managed to look over at the crowd as Severus moved to her hands, rubbing her fatigued fingers between his own potion stained digits. It seemed they were just as awed as he was. Some of the girls had tears running down their faces at the tenderness her Master was showing her. She shivered as he ran his tongue across her palm. He gave her a mischievous smirk when he stood, throwing her off balance. A sharp tug on her hair made her cry out in bliss. She loved it when he pulled her hair. He yanked her out of the chair by it and caught her in another burning kiss before tossing her over his shoulder and stalking off stage. They were serenaded by loud laughter and cheers.
The announcer walked back out on stage. “I’m sure you’ll all join me in congratulating Master Serpent and his new collared sub and fiancé. Looks like she’ll have her hands full!” He waited for the cheers to die down before continuing on. “That concludes the large demonstrations tonight. The first row of rooms have been reserved for fetish teaching tonight. We have a full list of those available at the front if you are interested. Feel free to flit from room to room. Everyone have a good night!”
Draco grinned as they cleared the back stage. “See you back at the table in…well, just later.”
Severus chuckled and turned towards the private rooms. Hermione managed to catch a glimpse of Harry as she was carried through the room. He looked…conflicted. Had he figured it out for sure then? Severus didn’t exactly have a nondescript voice. A sharp smack on her bum made her squeak.
“Stop thinking so bloody much,” Severus growled.
Hermione shook her head to clear it of errant thoughts. She needed to focus on her Master, or he’d eat her alive…which was what she was sort of hoping for. She was thrown down on a bed in one of the now familiar white rooms. Severus always chose these because he could customize it to his heart’s content and return it to its drab fashion easily. This time, he charmed the walls a deep gold color, spelled the carpet mocha, and changed the sheets to black silk.
Hermione’s breath hitched as he stalked over and flipped her on her stomach, undoing the zip of her dress and yanking it off her body roughly. He rolled her back over and planted his lips on one stiff nipple, suckling roughly. She gasped in pleasure, keening when he moved to the other one while using his fingers to pinch and pluck her other breast. She felt bereft when he pulled back.
“Take off the mask, my pet.”
Hermione unsnapped the now damp mask and placed it on the nightstand. She knew her face was red and puffy and hated it but she would not disobey her master. To her delight, he took his mask off as well, tossing it to the side. He had dark circles under his eyes, evidence that he’d not slept well. He never did unless she was beside him…and she hadn’t been. It made her feel terrible. She should have trusted him. Her eyes closed in pain and shame.
“No,” Severus snapped. “I want to see your eyes.”
“I-I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have run. I should have trusted you. I-“
Severus closed her lips with his fingers and shook his head. “I believe the fault lands squarely on my shoulders, pet. I should have tracked that bitch down and ripped the collar from her neck years ago. I figured she would get over it. I’m sorry I did not tell you of her, but it is in the past now. You wear my collar. You are mine Hermione…and I belong to no one but you.”
Hermione gave him a bright smile. “I love you Severus. I’ve loved you for years and I’m sorry I didn’t say anything sooner. I was just…so scared.”
Severus graced her with a rare smile before he captured his lips in her own. Nothing else needed to be said as he trailed kisses down her body, paying special attention to the sensitive undersides of her breasts, the crook of her elbow, the juncture between her hip and thigh, and the back of her knees. She moaned and writhed underneath his gentle ministrations, whimpering when he slid off the bed.
Her protest died in her throat when she realized he was removing his clothes. His pale skin was littered with scars, mementos of his service to Voldemort. When they first got together, he refused to bare his body before her, ashamed of his looks. Now though, he had no hesitancy. She’d kissed each and every one of his battle wounds, reassuring him that she thought they were possibly the most beautiful things she’d ever seen.
“Rise,” he ordered in a silken voice.
Her breathing sped up. Surely he wasn’t going to tie her again. Her hands and legs still ached from the last tie. That question was answered quickly as he took out several lengths of silver and gold silk sashes from his duster. She sighed and made to get up off the bed but was stayed by his hand.
“I said rise, not stand. Up on your knees, arms in front.”
This was new. Normally she stood while he bound her…or she sat in a chair if he was doing something intricate to her legs that would affect her balance. He took her right arm and stroked it lightly, goose bumps breaking out in the wake of his hand. He took care to wrap the silver sash in a crisscross pattern, making a small loop at her wrist and tying it off. He repeated the same pattern on her left hand in gold this time.
“Arms up,” he ordered and smirked when she hesitantly obeyed.
He flicked his wrist and a long wooden bar appeared, hanging from the ceiling by a chain. He tested it a few times and nodded his approval before looping each over the bar. Arms spread as wide as they would go, he tied them in place. She hadn’t realized that there were notches to do so. He sat back on the bed, staring at her with those inky black eyes full of appreciation and lust.
“Beautiful,” he whispered. “You are utterly ravishing…and I do intend to ravish you my dear. This position accentuates those perky breasts of yours. They really are quite captivating, so perfect and round, each with a rosy tip straining to be touched. Shall I touch them?”
Hermione whimpered. “Oh gods please touch them. They ache.” She twisted around, perturbed that her bound arms restricted her movement when she tried to arch up.
Severus swooped down and once again captured a pebbled pink bud in his mouth, worrying it with his teeth and alternating between hard sucks and gentle licks. Each change sent shots of pleasure to her core, as evidenced by her completely soaked knickers. They were starting to stick and get annoying. As if reading her mind, his hand traveled south to caress her damp entrance. A whispered spell and they vanished. Great, another pair gone.
Severus chuckled and moved his ministrations over to her other side, paying just as much attention to the neglected nipple. She lost track of time as his glorious mouth worked over her, making her dizzy with lust. She felt his sinful mouth suck and nip further down her body, leaving red marks that claimed her as his own. She let out a startled gasp as her body was lifted off the bed. Her eyes shot open in shock when a warm body lay beneath her. He’d only let her be on top a handful of times and never to completion.
He gazed up at her, eyes full of an emotion she’d never seen before…love. She gave him a tender smile as he positioned her over his rock hard member. She lowered herself on him, wiggling to try and take him all in one go. Her slick walls welcomed him, his massive girth stretching her to the limit. Once he was fully seated, she sat still, basking in the full feeling. She was complete. In this position, she could control almost everything but she was having a hard time maneuvering without her arms. He took mercy on her and helped her rotate her hips around, shoving her harder against his pelvis to brush against her clit.
She moaned at the sensations this position gave her. He managed to press up against the perfect spot every time. He was never a vocal partner but now she could hear his grunts and barely audible moans of pleasure. Hearing him let go of his rigid control made a thrill shoot through her, causing her muscles to tighten around him. He let out a groan and thrust up sharply, hitting the perfect spot.
She knew she wasn’t allowed to come unless he commanded it but she was losing the battle. Her magic was spinning turbulently through her veins, electrifying every touch and caress. Jolts of electricity shot back and forth between the two, causing them to gasp at the sharp pains.
“Come for me, my pet,” Severus said hoarsely.
Pleasure consumed her body in waves. She felt sparks shoot through her fingertips as her emotions spun out of control. The sounds of breaking glass and splintering wood surrounded them but she hardly cared. Severus let out a feral growl as he exploded inside her, thrusting weakly a few times before stilling. If she weren’t tied, she would have collapsed on top of him. As it was, she hung limply, no longer able to feel her arms and let the darkness consume her.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
“Wake up, my pet,” Severus drawled softly.
Hermione blinked rapidly up at her Master and smiled. She felt so calm and at peace.
“How are you feeling pet?”
“I-so much better,” Hermione said shyly. She realized she’d been untied and redressed…sans knickers. Good then she’d gotten used to going without them.
Severus smiled at her. She hoped it would become a more frequent habit because he looked so handsome when he did. She tried to caress his face and realized her arms were too sore to lift. A frown crept on her face as she struggled to get up.
“Easy pet,” Severus whispered and helped her to sit. “You released a great deal of magic. I’m afraid it put more strain on you than I would have liked.”
Hermione gasped as she took a look around. The walls were littered with splinters, furniture scattered and in pieces. The bar she was tied to had broken in a thousand pieces. She studied her arms and realized they were singed where the silk had been.
“Allow me,” Severus said softly and took a vial of cream from his duster jacket which he was wearing again. He gently rubbed the soothing balm into her burned skin until the burns disappeared. Then he handed her wand to her with a smirk. “Care to do the honors?”
Hermione beamed and swished her wand, immediately setting everything to rights again. It felt marvelous to be back in control of her magic again. She was supremely glad that potions didn’t require many spells, as her magic had been out of whack since she’d left Severus at the club that night. She grinned when the room returned to its pristine condition.
“An O, I think,” Severus said softly as he perused the room, searching for anything out of place. He nodded when he was sure that everything was perfect. “Shall we go meet your friends?”
Hermione gave a grim nod and grabbed her mask. She was stopped as she tried to put it on.
“Where is your Gryffindor courage?”
Hermione frowned when he placed his mask back on. “Where is yours?”
“I am a Slytherin,” Severus smirked.
She huffed. “You don’t have to deal with Ron.”
“On the contrary,” he drawled. “I believe it was high time I dealt with Ronald Weasley. Go ahead and place the mask back on but you will take it off when I order it, understood?”
“Yes Master,” she said cautiously. What on earth was he planning?
They made their way through the undulating bodies on the dance floor and over to their table. The nights always started out tame and escalated after the demonstrations. She realized that their table was completely full. Draco and Luna had made it back as well, looking thoroughly put out at Ron grinning and pointing at everyone. Harry and Ginny looked aggravated as well, if the glares they were giving him were anything to judge by. Draco smiled and waved at them, pulling Luna into his lap so they could have a seat. Severus didn’t hesitate, seating himself in the newly vacated chair and pulling his pet into his lap, cradling her tenderly.
Luna smiled at them. “I must say that was a wonderful demonstration Master Serpent.”
“Thank you, Mrs. Malfoy,” Severus drawled. “I’m glad you enjoyed it.”
“So who are you?” Ron asked rudely and was promptly smacked in the head by his sister.
“Ron,” Harry growled. “You’re going to get us kicked out!”
“Oh come of it Harry,” Ron said nonchalantly. “I didn’t try to take his mask or anything.”
Draco scoffed. “He obviously wants to remain anonymous Weaslebee. Asking him his identity is not respecting his right to privacy. Now, Master Serpent, might I be the first to offer my congratulations to you and your new fiancé.”
“Thank you Mr. Malfoy,” Severus drawled. “I am most pleased she said yes.”
Draco chuckled. “She is very lovely, if I may say so.”
“She really is,” Severus drawled and fingered her mask. “This contraption, however, does absolutely nothing for her. Take it off, pet.”
Hermione gulped nervously. She looked around the table, searching for some sort of acceptance. Draco and Luna were grinning. Harry had a reserved look on his face, as did Ginny. Ron, on the other hand, looked to be salivating. At least now her Master could yell at him. She reached a shaking hand behind her and unsnapped the mask. She closed her eyes and removed it, holding it out for Draco to take again.
To her surprise, there were no cries of outrage. She changed a peak around. Harry and Ginny were giving her knowing looks. Had Draco told them the truth or had they figured it out for themselves? Ron, on the other hand, was beet red. She feared for his health as he turned an interesting shade of purple.
“Hello love,” Draco said softly. “You look beautiful in ropes.”
Hermione blushed beet red. “I-I uh, thank you Draco.” She turned to her friends, cringing when she saw Ron twitching. “H-harry?”
“How long?” Harry whispered.
Hermione swallowed the lump in her throat. “F-four y-years.”
Harry pursed his lips before finally nodding. “Are you happy?”
“Tremendously,” Hermione answered honestly. She really was. Severus was a cold man but he made her feel cherished, wanted, and now loved. He’d stood up publicly, declared his love, and collared her. He promised to marry her. What more could she ask for?
“Alright then,” Harry said softly.
“Alright?” Ron squeaked. “ALRIGHT?” He stood up abruptly. “It is not bloody alright! That’s my fiancé!”
“No, I’m not, Ron,” Hermione spat. “I’ve never been yours. Ever. I’ve told you a million times that I don’t feel that way about you. I will not marry you. You need to move on!”
Ron was trembling now. “No. You are mine Hermione. We belong together! You just have to see that!”
He tried to grab her arm but was pushed back by a livid Severus. Her Master set her down and stood to his full height. “Mr. Weasley, get it through your thick skull. She is mine. She doesn’t want you and your delusional image of the perfect relationship!”
“Who are you anyway? Why did you take her from me?”
Severus smirked and crossed his arms. “On the contrary, she came to me first. You see, she requires special treatment that I have the knowledge to give her. Face it Weasley, she’s out of your league.”
“You bloody bastard. Who are you?”
“You really are thick, aren’t you?” Draco scoffed. “Honestly, you don’t recognize him?”
Ron frowned. “No. He’s wearing a bleeding mask.”
“Ron,” Harry said softly. “Listen to his voice.”
“Why would I recognize that?”
Severus sneered. “Perhaps because you listened to it for six years. Although, you were such a dunderhead, it wouldn’t surprise me that you hadn’t heard a word I said. You always were abysmal at potions.”
“I-“ Ron’s eyes widened in shock. “No. Not you.”
“Why not?” Severus asked.
“You-you’re a…a miserable old bastard!”
“And,” Severus said dangerously.
“Ron,” Harry barged in before there could be a fight. “Let it go. She’s happy. Can’t that be enough?”
“No,” Ron hissed. “That can’t be enough. This isn’t over!” He turned and stormed out of the club.
The occupants of the table sat down in a huff, glad to avoid a fight. Fighting was frowned upon and dealt with quickly. Finally, Harry cleared his throat.
“Hermione, as long as you’re happy, we’re happy for you…regardless of what Ron thinks.”
Ginny nodded. “Yeah Mione. I just wish you’d told us earlier.”
Hermione ducked her head in embarrassment but was saved from an explanation by her Master.
“I believe her reasoning was to protect me. It is frowned upon to start a relationship with your student, age of maturity or not. However, now there is nothing holding us back. I meant every word I said tonight. I will make an honest woman out of her.”
Harry nodded. “I believe you sir. We’ll be going now but…I think we might return.”
Severus smirked. “Anytime Potter. Let me know if you’d like a lesson or two.”
Harry blushed scarlet and pulled a smirking Ginny up to follow.
“Well, that was pleasant,” Draco said as he watched them leave.
Severus nodded and drew Hermione into his lap again. “Yes, well. Let us hope we can all move on.”
AN: So, what do you guys think? For those of you wondering, I've just got to proof the next chapter of Beyond the Pale. I should have it up soon. Fooling Fate will be updated Monday, if I have to bind Muse to a chair and flog it to death. I've included links to some of the different ties used in the story. Please keep in mind that some are NSFW and you'll need to take out the spaces.
Hand and feet bondage: http:/ /farm1.staticflickr.com/ 62/154733018_6229129f3b.jpg
Luna's suspension: http://media-cache0 .pinterest.com/ upload/40954677832217102_vNAx865d_b.jpg
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