Chapter 54
Hermione sank into the steaming bath, letting the warmth envelop her sore muscles. The bathroom was dimly lit by enchanted candles that flickered gently, casting a soothing glow. Astoria sat across from her, the water rippling around her as she adjusted her position, her gaze fixed intently on Hermione.
"This feels amazing," Astoria murmured.
Hermione nodded, closing her eyes for a moment. "It really does. After two months of studying, I think we both needed this."
Astoria reached out, her fingers grazing Hermione's arm lightly. "You work too hard, Hermione. You should take more time to relax."
Hermione opened her eyes, meeting Astoria's gaze. "I suppose you're right. It's just... difficult sometimes."
Astoria smiled. "Well, tonight, let's not think about anything else. Just us and this wonderful bath."
They lapsed into a comfortable silence, the only sounds the occasional splash of water and the soft crackle of the enchanted candles. Hermione leaned back, allowing herself to fully relax. Astoria's hand drifted to Hermione's thigh, her touch gentle yet suggestive.
Hermione shivered slightly, her body responding to the contact. She reached out, brushing a lock of hair from Astoria's face. "You know, Astoria, you're quite persuasive."
Astoria laughed softly. "I aim to please."
Their playful banter was interrupted by the sound of the bathroom door creaking open. Both women turned their heads to see Draco standing in the doorway, his eyes dark and intense.
"Mind if I join?" Draco asked.
Astoria's smile faded slightly. "Actually, Draco, I think we'd prefer it if you didn't."
Draco's expression hardened momentarily. "Are you sure? It looks like you're having fun."
"We're sure," Astoria said firmly. "Tonight is just for us."
Draco's eyes flicked between them before he nodded. "Very well. Enjoy your bath."
He turned and left, closing the door behind him. The tension in the room dissipated slightly. Astoria turned back to Hermione, her expression softening. "Sorry about that. Draco must have forgotten that it was my night with you."
Hermione smiled. "It's okay."
Astoria's eyes sparkled. "Now, where were we?"
Hermione felt her cheeks flush as Astoria's hand resumed its exploration, their connection deepening in the warm, fragrant water. Despite the interruption, the bath turned out to be exactly what she needed.