Chapter Text
Three Broomsticks-
Hermione stiffened as she tightened her grip on Narcissa, who followed her own instincts and pulled her closer as Harry and Fleur closed ranks. The mysterious woman came into view as Narcissa was pulling Hermione closer and wrapping a possessive arm around her waist. Even though Hermione was caught completely off guard by the sudden appearance of the very woman who broke her heart, she coldly asked, “What are you doing here Alexis?”
Narcissa looked the witch up and down, observing every little detail. The woman before her was beautiful at 5 foot 6, wavy light brown hair with blonde highlights, an amazing hour glass figure and striking hazel eyes. Seeing Rosemerta coming towards them, she leaned closer than necessary to Hermione and said, “We should move to a table before we get kicked out.”
When Narcissa straightened, she saw the witch narrow her eyes, making the Pure Blood Queen return the icy glare. Hermione saw the two squaring off, and gave Narcissa a reassuring squeeze that did not go unnoticed and said, “Let’s move to our table so you can say what you need to and then leave.”
Lex watched as the group protectively encased Hermione and turned towards the table. She followed quickly in order to keep up and said, “I was hoping to speak with you alone. Didn’t you get my letter?” The group didn’t stop, and if Lex was being honest, she was a bit put out by the fact that her statement went uncommented, but also at the sight of the older woman hanging all over the captivating brunette.
Everyone took their seats quickly, and before Lex could say anything, Narcissa took one side while Fleur took the other, followed by Harry. Hermione felt Narcissa’s hand slip to her thigh, and put a hand on top of hers as she said, “What do you want Alexis? Things have been a little crazy lately so I didn’t read the letter. If I knew it was from you, I would have gone somewhere else for lunch after I burned it.” Seeing her ex shuffle from foot to foot and then looked at Harry and Fleur, before turning her gaze to Narcissa and narrowed her eyes. Hermione snapped, “Why have you come back Alexis? They aren’t leaving. You either can say what you need to now or not at all.”
Lex slumped her shoulders in defeat as she gathered her thoughts. When she lifted her head, one found defiance twinkling in her eyes and her shoulders squared, ready for battle as she said, “I wanted to apologize for the way I acted, and beg not only for your forgiveness, but also for a second chance.” Unbeknownst to her, Narcissa had Hermione’s thigh/hand in a death grip while her heart plummeted to her stomach. Lex waited for Hermione to say something, but when she hadn’t made a sound, she continued, “I was an utter fool for leaving. You were the best thing I had, and I threw it all away. I will get down on my hands and knees if I must. I am begging you for another chance…I’m still in love with you.”
The young witch clutched her hands before her, almost wilting under the ice queen’s frosty glare. As Narcissa held onto one of Hermione hand, Fleur slipped her hand onto the other. As she gripped both tightly, she tried to reign in her temper and heartache she was feeling as she replied with her voice full of venom, “Love? Do you have any idea what you did to me? How badly you hurt me? After everything you did and said to me, you have the gall to stand there and beg for not only my forgiveness, but for a second chance?” Narcissa slipped an arm around her shoulders and held her tightly while pulling her close. She was staking her claim, almost daring her to attempt to take Hermione away.
Narcissa felt Hermione’s magic beginning to dance across her skin, warning her that Hermione was dangerously close to losing control. She looked over to Harry and Fleur, giving them a tiny nod before taking a firm hold of Hermione and appartated them to the alley just outside. Lex was at such a loss as to what she just witnessed, she nearly jumped out of her skin when Harry tightly gripped her shoulder and sternly said, “Sit down and shut up. Those two won’t be back while you are here since none of us want to pay to rebuild this landmark, nor upset the owner who is a VERY close friend.” Rosemerta showed up at that exact moment with a bottle of mead for the rest, and a bottle of Bourbon for Hermione. She made it a point to keep several expensive bottles in stock exclusively for the brilliant witch. Harry waited for her to leave before going on to say, “If you knew what was good for you Alexis, you would stay away. Whatever little fantasy you have waltzing around in your head, just forget about it. I’m telling you right now, it has no legs to stand on.”
Lex’s eyes took on a defiant glare as she replied, “I won’t. I know what my heart is telling me and your wrong… We were in love once and I stood by her when she almost died. I don’t give a damn what anyone else thinks, I will keep trying. Hermione Granger always gives second chances, and I’m not going anywhere.”
Harry’s eyes were blazing as he retorted, “You will leave her be!” He lowered his voice and hissed, “That night you left, she miscarried… all because of what you did.”
“She was going to terminate anyway! I cannot be blamed for that loss!” Lex angerly bit back.
Fleur put a firm hand on Harry’s forearm to stop him from going any further while she said, “Go get some air Cherie, I will finish with her.” She gave him a passionate kiss before watching him walk away. It always made her blood sing when Harry was dominate like this. Once he was out of sight, she turned her gaze towards Lex, who’s eyes widened in fear at the sight of Fleur’s eyes as they had transformed from their piercing blue to a fierce amber. “Now, eet zeems to me zat you do not understand zat zhere weel be no second chances. Eet was you who called ‘er a monster, the one to break ‘er ‘eart. You seem to zink you can come walking back into ‘er life as eef nozing ‘appened.. Zat one ‘as finally begun to put ‘er life and ‘er ‘eart back togezer. I weel tell you what you are going to do. You weel leave ‘ere and ‘er be. Eef she wishes eet to be, zen she weel reach out to you. Do I make myself clear?”
Alley-
To say Hermione was shocked to be outside was an understatement. Her life has been turned upside down and inside out within the last 12 hours. She felt her magic bubbling close to the surface and was about to force her way back into that pub when she was suddenly slammed against the wall as Narcissa pushed herself against her and passionately kissed her. She started to fight, to push the witch away, but Narcissa for saw this coming and nipped at her bottom lip as she wrapped her arms around her. After several intense moments, Hermione finally began to melt into Narcissa’s embrace, finally submitting to the blond who unknowing held the key to her heart.
Narcissa had eventually pulled away and rested her forehead against Hermione’s as they both panted heavily.
Hermione tried to remain strong as she felt the anger slowly ebb away until the only thing that was left was the pain… the hurt that had begun to take root deep within her soul. Sensing that Hermione was about to fall- emotionally and physically- Narcissa cast a notice me not charm just as Hermione’s legs began to shake. She helped her slide down the wall, all the while keeping her wrapped tightly in her arms. They sat there in silence for a long time. Narcissa knew that Hermione would talk when she was ready. “Do you want to talk about anything?”
Hermione had to take several deep breaths, attempting to calm herself before she was anywhere near ready to speak. With so many questions and emotions dancing around, she just didn’t know where to start. “What I want to know is why. Why now? Just as I have finally been able to pull my life together and attempt to move on.”
Narcissa listened patiently and when an opportunity knocked, she stepped in and said, “I don’t know why. I wish I did, and could answer that for you. What I do know is that you are surrounded by people who genuinely care about you. Most importantly, you have Fleur and Harry who not only care about their friend, but their sister.” She paused to look Hermione in the eyes, making sure that she not only held her full attention, but also to convey that she was taking a chance by letting her guard down and laying herself bare. “And you have me… that is, if you’ll have me.”
Hermione’s heart skipped a beat as it fluttered. “Are you sure that you want to be with someone who has some serious commitment problems, and is so damaged that it seems as if they will always be broken?”
Narcissa gave her a warm smile as she asked, “Do you want me to tell you what I see?” She saw the fear slowly start to creep back into her chocolate eyes, so she quickly went on to say, “I see a beautiful woman who has these amazing chocolate eyes that seem to captivate me. But there is so much more. Your intelligence is unmatched, just like your courage. You are more than just a heroine… you have a beautiful soul, are full of compassion, and I find myself drawn to you. We all have problems, I surely have my own with a convicted Death Eater ex-husband who tried to kill you, and a son who no longer speaks with me. You are not a burden, and I hope you are willing to take a chance on me. I will do my best to be there for you, and If you tell me that you don’t want me, then I will respect your wishes. No matter what happens, I will always respect you.”
Despite feeling tears that were so close to the edge, Hermione gave her a warm smile. Instead of replying with her words, she leaned over and kissed Narcissa, deciding that actions spoke louder than words. In that silent exchange, both had laid their souls at the others feet. Narcissa smiled into Hermione’s lips as she felt a light breeze kick up and Hermione’s magic danced across her skin, as if it was making sure she wasn’t a threat.
~Page break~
Harry watched as a visible shaken Alexis left the pub. Making his way back over to Fleur, he kept glancing over his shoulder to see if Hermione and Narcissa had made their way back in yet. Giving himself a little shake he said, “I see you had better luck with her. Should we send a message to Mione and Narcissa?”
Fleur embraced her love, deeply drinking in his scent, calming completely the moment she made contact. Once she had calmed enough she said, “You can if you want too. I’m sure they will be back when they are ready.”
Harry kept his arm around Fleur’s waist as he took the seat next her and said, “Why is all this happening now? I want nothing more than to protect Hermione, and can’t help but feel that the worst is yet to come. I can understand the Ministry and I don’t agree with them. Yes, at one time Ron was my best mate, but after what he did and said during his trial, the bastard should either be locked away for the rest of his life or sent through the veil. He is up to something, and my gut is telling me to be prepared.”
Fleur took a sip of her wine and replied, “I agree Cherie. What I want to know is why Alexis thinks that she can now come walking back into Hermione’s life and expect to be forgiven for everything she did and said. Something is off with this entire situation. Why meet with her today?”
“I couldn’t agree with you more Fleur.” Hermione said as she was coming up from behind the two with Narcissa conveniently on her arm. “Look, can we just enjoy ourselves for now and not talk about it?”
Fleur handed Hermione her glass and asked, “Is there something you two want to tell us?”
Harry pulled Fleur closer and saw that Narcissa took Hermione’s hand and gave her a soft smile. Hermione smiled back as she replied, “We’ve decided to explore whatever this is, and get to know one another.”
Harry smile back and said, “So basically what you’re telling us is that you’re finally done being daft and realized that you two have feelings for each other.”
Fleur nudged his shoulder and said, “Well I am happy for you two. All I ask is that you both give each other a chance.” Looking up, she saw Rosemerta coming over and added, “Let’s order then we can talk about the year to come. I do believe some of the students already fear a certain Transfiguration Professor.”
They all quickly place their order and once Rosemerta left, Hermione said, “Some of the students have found out the hard way not to prank me.”
Harry laughed loudly, already knowing that his sister was not to be trifled with. Hell, even the Weasley Twins knew better than to try anything. “I think the Headmistress is already regretting having both of us back at Hogwarts.”
Hermione chuckled as she replied, “I’m sure we liven up the place. I know the students are having trouble deciding if they should be shocked or amused at the sight of the two of us. They really aren’t use to their professors acting like students.”
Fleur giggled as Narcissa snorted softly as she replied, “I’m sure the Headmistress is wondering the same thing most of us are… will we ever be able to get through one meal where you two actually behave.” Harry and Hermione shared a very serious look for a few seconds before they busted out laughing, knowing that would most likely never happen.
~Page Break~
The group finished their meal in relative peace and slowly made their way back towards the school. While walking back, Hermione pulled Narcissa away from Harry and Fleur to have a few more minutes alone. They walked the path hand and hand in companionable silence, that is until the two ended up in front of the Shrieking Shack. Hermione pulled Narcissa closer, and as she wrapped an arm around her waist asked, “Can I ask you a personal question? What happened with Draco? Why don’t the two of you speak?” Hermione felt Narcissa tense the moment the question was asked. Not wanting to force the issue or make Narcissa uncomfortable she added, “You don’t have to say anything if it is too difficult. I’m sorry if I brought up some terrible memories.”
Narcissa tried to steady herself as she felt the world spinning slightly. She knew that the question would come up eventually, and wanted to tell Hermione the truth. Giving her hand a squeeze to know that she just needed a moment. Unexpectedly, Hermione cupped the side of her face and pulled her in for a kiss that conveyed, Take your time. There is no rush. I’m not going anywhere, and no matter what has happened, I will support you and comfort you. Feeling completely overwhelmed by the level of support that Hermione was showing, tears began to build and threatened to spill over. Sensing Hermione’s unasked question she said, “I have never felt as safe and supported than I do right now. No one has ever made me feel like this. I’ll tell you about Draco, but I must ask you… I know you wanted to give us a try, but I want to know… no, I need to know that you truly want an exclusive relationship. That you want a divorced woman who is not only old enough to be your mother, but also has a Death Eater of an ex-husband as your girlfriend and lover. That you are willing to stand by my side in public and deal with all the insanity that is involved with it. I know you have said all of this, but I need you to understand that my last relationship has left me quite vulnerable.”
Hermione gave her a warm smile before pulling her in for a passionate kiss that quickly escalated in intensity. Pulling back she panted, “I would like nothing more.”
Narcissa’s smile lit up her face as she relaxed into the brunette’s arms. Taking a deep breath she said, “I haven’t spoken with Draco since just after the trials, much less seen him. He has never forgiven me for putting him in such danger. He always saw what Lucius wanted him to see, and was under the impression that I was devoted to his father and supported him completely. That I just sat by while his childhood was taken by that monster. I don’t blame him from distancing himself from our world and me, but I wish he would speak with me long enough so that I could at least explain what really happened.”
Hermione tightened her grip slightly as she pulled Narcissa closer. In the incredibly short time Hermione has known her, it was plain to see that Narcissa would do absolutely anything that was necessary to protect her son, who she loved dearly. “I’m sure he will come around, but it’s just going to take time. Is that why you took up Minerva’s offer? So that you could keep yourself busy?”
With Hermione pulling her towards the road that led back to the school, Narcissa replied, “It was. I have always been interested in Potions and do have a mastery in it. This gives me a chance to pass on the immense amount of knowledge I have managed to collect over the years. It also gives me the chance to help shape those young minds that will be the future of our world. Hopefully, I can reach those who still have their heads stuck in the old ways. How about you? Do you enjoy teaching? I know a little of how you ended up here, but is this what you really want to do with your time?”
The two casually strolled back towards the school arm and arm as Hermione replied, “I was originally slated to start at the Ministry in Shack’s office. After my recovery and trial, I just couldn’t do it and needed a place away from the public’s eye. That was when Minerva came to my rescue. At first, I was dreadfully nervous, but once I started, I knew this is what I wanted to do. I managed to become a Transfiguration Master within a year. In fact, my final paper was published in Transfiguration Today. While we were students, I always had to stay on top of Harry to do his work and ended up helping so many others with their work as well. I was helping with NEWT level work by the time I was a Fourth Year, and was lucky enough to have that experience to fall back on when I first started teaching. It also gave me a chance to research, and I have even considered undertaking a second mastery.”
Narcissa chuckled when she heard this and asked, “Do you ever slow down? It is very rare to attain a second mastery, but I’m sure you will have no problem with it. Tell me, what do your parents have to say about all of your accomplishments? I’m sure they must be incredibly proud that their daughter is the brightest witch of her age.” Feeling the sudden tug on her arm, she looked back to see Hermione standing still and hanging her head, appearing to be almost crushed under the weight of what she just said. Assuming it was guilt, she pulled her close and asked with her voice full of concern, “Have I said something I shouldn’t have? Are you alright?”
Hermione let Narcissa wrap her up as she felt the regret fill her heart, making it heavy with an ache and longing. Despite her eyes filling with tears, she replied in an unsteady voice, “As you know, I obliviated my parents in order to protect them. As soon as the war was over, Harry and I took off to Australia to find them and restore their memories. After a few days, we managed to track them down. Apparently, a few weeks before we got there, they were driving home one night from dinner and were in a fatal car accident.”
Narcissa held Hermione close as her tears finally fell. Kissing the top of her head, she tried to comfort her by saying, “I’m sure they would have been so proud of how their daughter blossomed into a beautiful and brilliant witch.”
Hermione nestled herself into the Blonde’s arms and said, “Thank you… it still hurts so much.”
Before they knew it, they were standing in front of the gates. As Hermione opened them, Narcissa said, “Since we have some free time before dinner, how about coming back to my quarters for a drink and having a look at some of my research notes?”
“I would love too. Perhaps I could interest you in taking a look at a few of the projects I’m working on at the moment. We just need to stop off at my quarters to fetch them. Plus, this will give me a chance to write Harry a quick note so he doesn’t worry.”
Before Narcissa could reply, Harry came up behind them and asked, “So who doesn’t worry?”
Hermione laughed as she shook her head and turned to face him and Fleur. Noticing the smudged lipstick on his face she said, “That would be you. Narcissa and I are going to head back to her quarters to discuss our research. I’m sure you will find something to keep you busy before supper. Besides, I’m sure your quarters would be more comfortable compared to where ever you two have been. Just so you know, you have lipstick smeared on you and should probably freshen up before a certain Headmistress sees you.” Noticing the blush creep up on him she added, “At least you found a color that doesn’t clash with your eyes or complexion.”
Harry swiftly wiped his face and messed with his hair as Fleur smirked, “I did not take you for the jealous type Hermione. Are you sure all you two are going to be doing is going over your research? Perhaps another topic will… pop up and require you to reevaluate your hypothesis and... techniques.”
Hermione brushed off her blush from the innuendos with a laugh as she waved the two of them off while turning back to a smirking Narcissa. “See you two in the Great Hall,” she said calling back to the two lovers. The two quickly made their way through several hidden passages, effectively avoiding all the students and most of the staff. Their first stop was at Hermione’s quarters. “I’ll only be a moment,” Hermione said as she quickly made her way over to her desk and then over to one of her bookcases. “Sorry about the mess, I wasn’t expecting any visitors. Let me grab a fresh set of robes so I don’t have to come back before we go to the Great Hall.”
Narcissa looked around and saw the bright Gryffindor colors, numerous books and scrolls covering the table and desk. Seeing Hermione walking towards her she said, “All set? I must admit, I admire your quarters.” The moment Hermione was close enough, Narcissa wrapped her arms around her and pulled her in for a passionate kiss. Hermione dropped her things and eagerly returned it while her hands began to wander, and eventually had one arm tightly wrapped around the blonde’s waist with her hand resting on her lower back, while the other hand was intertwined through Narcissa’s hair. Reluctantly pulling back for a breath, Narcissa panted, “It’s very warm and homely.”
Hermione pulled her in for another embrace while pulling her body towards the bed. They slowly undressed each other along the way, leaving a trail of clothing that started from the middle of the room. Just before her legs hit the edge of the bed, Hermione turned and gently laid Narcissa on top of the comfortable mattress before crawling atop the beautiful woman. Along the way, Hermione’s eyes hungrily devoured the sight before her. Propping herself up, she leaned in and softly kissed Narcissa’s neck and then moved over to the other side, causing the witch to moan and arch her back in an effort to get closer. Feeling the woman beneath her melt into her bed the moment she pulled back, Hermione ‘s voice was very husky and full of lust as she said, “I have dreamed of this moment and feel that I must tell you… the reality of the situation is so much better.”
Narcissa shivered as her sultry tone washed over her. Every time the brunette touched her, it felt as if her body was on fire. Feeling Hermione’s thigh press against her, Narcissa tried to grind her hips against it in an attempt to release some of the tension that was coiled tightly in her luscious center. Knowing what both of them needed, Narcissa managed to push herself up so that she was flush against Hermione’s chest. She moved to take off the Gryffindor’s shirt and found her hands pinned at her side. Narcissa lifted her brow but said nothing as she turned her attention to her neck while eventually wrapping her arms around Hermione’s waist.
The moment Narcissa found Hermione’s pulse point, Hermione threw her head back with a loud, throaty moan. Again, Narcissa tried to get Hermione’s shirt off, only to be stopped once more. She pulled back so that she could look into those captivating chocolate eyes and asked, “Is everything alright? We can stop if you need too.”
Hermione tried to avoid the question by pulling Narcissa in for another heated exchange, but found herself being pushed away.
“I have a few scars…”
Narcissa softened her features and replied, “I would never judge you. I care not about your looks, but for the person you are. Those scars represent both the battles and war that you have survived… that you my dear are a fighter. A strong, fierce and independent woman. We all have our crosses to bare. It just so happens that some are visible while others are not. No matter what you may see, I see a beautiful and intriguing witch before me.” Narcissa knew that Hermione had quite a few issues that she needed to work through and that this was her first serious relationship in a long time. Despite her own frustrations, she went on to say, “If you truly are uncomfortable, we can still head back to my quarters to discuss our research. Why don’t we just take our time getting to know one another properly? We have just started this relationship, and there is no reason to rush.”
Hermione stilled Narcissa the moment she tried to pull away. “Wait. Please.” She begged, knowing that Narcissa was just as wound up. Beneath her was the very woman who occupied several of her dreams, and managed to rip down every layer of protection she had in place. “I have dreamt of this very moment and want nothing more than to make love to you. Despite me trying to keep you at arm's length, I find myself drawn to you. I know you want this just as much as I do. I have shared more with you than anyone else, but I’m not ready to share this. Not even Harry has seen them. Fleur is the only other person since she was the one who helped me with them. If you want me, then take me. I am not even comfortable with the constant reminders that they bring.”
Narcissa gently cupped Hermione’s face and as she softly rubbed her cheekbone with her thumb said, “Then we shall wait until you are comfortable, for I would rather have all of you when the time comes.” Seeing the hurt flash across Hermione’s eyes, and knowing she was beginning to build her stone walls back up around her heart for protection continued, “I would love nothing more than to ravish you, but I can be patient. I have no plans of going anywhere and plan on being by your side for as long as you’ll have me. I never planned on being with another person, let alone in a relationship, so all of this is new for me.”
“At this moment, I want nothing more than to give myself to you completely, but I am not ready to share this with anyone,” Hermione replied with downcast eyes that were on the verge of filling with tears.
Her heart was aching something fierce while she tried to apologize, only to be silence when Narcissa put a finger to her lips and said, “Shh, I’ll have none of that. We have all the time in the world darling to truly get to know one another. For now, we will wait and head back to my quarters so that you and I can have an intelligent conversation over a cup of tea.”
Hermione reluctantly got up and began to gather her clothes and head to the bathroom to change, leaving Narcissa to track down her own belongings. The gears in her mind kept churning as Hermione was changing. ‘Why do I feel so insecure about all of this? Narcissa has done nothing but shower me with support. I know I am being unreasonable, but I can’t seem to help but feel this way.’ Not realizing that the door was cracked open, or that Narcissa was standing on the other side getting ready to knock when she muttered, “Perhaps I really am some kind of monster. I’m sure those scars would make it appear so.”
Narcissa closed her eyes for a moment as she felt a stabbing pain in her heart as those words washed over her. In that moment, she realized that Hermione was still broken. Granted, she did put up a very good front, but she was only holding on by a thread with the tips of her fingers… barely. Hearing her shuffling towards the door, Narcissa quickly crossed the room to look at one of the bookshelves. When Hermione was close enough, she turned and smiled. “All set darling?”
Hermione returned the smile as she replied, “I’m ready when you are. On the way to your quarters, I’ll tell you about the brilliant idea I’ve just had.” She held the door for the woman of her dreams. Walking down the hall hand and hand, she felt Narcissa give her hand a quick and supportive squeeze. Taking a deep breath, she asked, “What are your thoughts on developing a potion that would help squibs develop their magical cores?”