Magical Lineage

Theo entered his lab. He knew what Draco said was true, Hermione had chosen THEM. She had given herself to THEM. Wanted her firsts to be with THEM. Wanted to learn from THEM. Her magic seemed to react and feed off of THEM. She said she wanted to explore a relationship with THEM. She wanted to have children with THEM. Even knowing all of this, why was he so worried that she would turn away?

Trying to refocus his thoughts he went to the first potion and removed the stasis charm. As he attended to the cauldron, noting that the liquid inside was tar thick and shiny red, just as it should be. Normal skelo-gro, that is to say for humans, is quite complex in its ingredients, but fairly easy to brew. However, skelo-gro for magical creatures had even more ingredients and was ten times as complicated to brew. He had to focus, if this batch is ruined, he will have wasted three months and some very rare and expensive ingredients. The cost was not the issue, the scarcity of the very rare underground orchid was. He made a mental note to talk to Longbottom and his friend, maybe they could figure out a way to grow it.

For the next four hours he focused on his potions, noting that the creature skelo-gro was past the critical stage and was complete. Three other potions finished brewing. After cleaning up the lab and taking inventory of his ingredients he headed to the kitchens to grab a bite before cleaning up. He was stopped by Draco, “Where are you headed?”

Smiling, Theo said, “I’m done for today, so I thought I would grab a bite and get cleaned up. Why? What did you have in mind?”

“Well, I’m also done. Fancy a fly?”

Theo’s smile widened. “Absolutely. I’ll clean up later. But I am starving.”

As if reading the other wizards mind, Draco flicked his wand and a picnic basket appeared, “I was on my way to your lab to see if you were done. I thought we could have a picnic and see how many times I beat you catching the snitch.” The blonde had a twinkle in his eye.

“Challenge accepted.”

As they walked the grounds toward the lake, they passed the shed where their brooms were stored. Draco called his Maxim Turbo 300 to him. While Theo summoned his Firebolt Lightning. Both brooms were the newest models, but where Draco’s was a little longer, Theo’s had a wider shaft, which suited his broader frame.

Theo spread the blanket down and Draco placed the basket on the ground. With a swish of his hand, the contents began to unpack themselves. Both men sat down, facing the lake. The food continued to set itself up, and Theo charmed the wine bottle to pour them each a glass.

After a few minutes of quietly sipping wine and staring at the lake, Draco, put his glass down and reach a hand to touch Theo’s jaw. The handsome wizard leaned into the touch. Locking eyes, he was held by beautiful, intense cobalt blue. Still holding Theo’s jaw, sliding his thumb over his full perfect lips, Draco leaned over and kissed the other him. The kiss was not hard or rushed, but soft, slow and meaningful.

The kiss was gentle and full of promise. Without words, Theo felt what Draco was trying to say, ‘You are loved. You are special. You are cherished. You are mine.’

When they broke apart, Draco leaned his forehead against Theo’s, his hand sliding securely behind the other man’s neck, holding them together. “You know I love you.” It wasn’t a question.

Theo whispered, “Yes. I know.”

“You know I have always loved you.” Again, not a question.

“I know.” Theo tipped his head up and kissed Draco again, just a playful peck before pulling away. The raven haired man’s stomach growled. “If I don’t eat though, you will be in love with a corpse.”

“Prat”, Draco laughed and handed him a plate. “Eat, so I can kick your lovely bum at snitch sprint. I do believe I hold the record.”

Theo started filling his plate with sandwiches and fruit, “Yes. Yes. You hold the record for most snitches caught in one game, but I do believe I won the last two games we played.”

The blond just smirked, “We shall see.”

After lunch and some more snogging, they flew around the grounds, swooping and racing and catching the golden snitch that was charmed to stay in the skies above the grounds. They both learned their lesson about two years ago when they had forgotten to restrict the fluttering ball’s boundaries. They had ended up about 25 kilometers away from the manor. Theo had to use a summoning charm on it.

Both men dropped onto the blanket laughing. They were tired and now sporting a few new bruises. “Dra, that flock of birds really did a number on your clothes.” Theo chuckled.

“Fucking birds. Bad enough I flew through them, they didn’t have to take their revenge and turn back and attack me. That one latched onto my ear and damn near pulled it off.” Draco, rubbed at his ear, indeed there was dried blood smeared down the side of his neck.

This just made Theo howl and grab his midsection. He panted out, “Well at least you didn’t pull up too late, that bloody tree was wider than I thought, the branches scraped the shit out of my legs. Draco noted, Theo’s pants were torn in several places and he glimpsed streaks of blood.

They laid together for a while just staring at the sky. Draco cast a tempus, Half past four. Rolling to his side he placed his hand on Theo’s chest. “We have some time before we have to get ready to meet mum for dinner.” The innuendo was completely understood. The wizard smiled, silently giving Draco permission. His hand slid down from Theo’s chest to his trousers.

“Wait.” Theo said, “Let me clean you up.” He took a napkin from the basket and with his wand cast aguamenti to wet it. Then he gently cleaned Draco’s ear and neck. As soon as it was clean he leaned in, kissing, licking and pushing against his pulse point with the point of his tongue.

Draco groaned and reluctantly pulled away from him. Putting his hand against Theo’s chest, he pushed him back so he was laying back on the blanket. Looking right into those beautiful blue eyes he resumed his hands path down to the button on the wizard’s trousers. With that trademark smirk he undid the button and the zip, which is when he felt the bulge growing and straining against his undershorts.

Theo closed his eyes and moaned. His body automatically reacted to Draco’s touch, his hips pushed up, wanting Draco to close his hand around his straining shaft.

Flicking his tongue over Theo’s lips, he chucked, “Greedy boy. Do you want me to touch you? Do you want my hand to hold you so tight it almost hurts?”

These suggestions caused Theo to moan louder and whisper, “Yes Sir. Please.”

Draco smiled at the “Sir” comment. Both men loved being dominant but they both also loved to give up control and submit. A game they have played since their Hogwarts days. Today Theo will submit to him. Draco let his hand slide into the tightening undershorts, he cupped the other man’s balls. Roughly squeezing and grinding his palm against them.

Theo gasped and bucked his hips. “Drake ple…”

He latched his mouth onto Theo’s, pushed his tongue into him and took control. Their tongues entwined and played, there was no rush. Theo’s body reacted to his touch and desires. Both knowing who was in control. Pulling away Draco said, “Let’s get rid of these clothes.” and wandlessly their clothes were in a pile next to the blanket. “See, not vanished forever.”

Theo smirked. “Now who’s the Prat?”

As Draco crawled over him, Theo opened his legs, putting his knees on either side of his hips, holding the blond firmly in place. He said, “You know I have really enjoyed having Hermione with us. I feel like we are ‘more’ when she is. But I have missed your touch. I have missed…”

Just then Draco leaned over onto Theo, chest to chest, hips to hips and cock to cock. Both men groaned, “...this. You have missed this. So have I.” Draco finished for him. “I know what you mean. Being with Hermione is ‘right’ with our bodies, and our magic is ‘more’ but I have missed your body, your embrace, your cock.” With that last word he ground his shaft against Theo’s. “Just lay back and enjoy Love.”

The blonde kissed Theo’s full lips. Then trailed kisses and licks down the other man’s neck. Rubbing and touching every part of him as he travelled south. He couldn’t help it; he kept grinding and rubbing their cocks together. Wanting to pump into him so bad that he wasn’t sure he could wait. He sat up on his knees. Opening his legs wider, he looked down at Theo, admiring his body. He loved to look at Theo, he was beautiful and the sight of his cock literally made Draco’s mouth water. He was so turned on by the size of Theo’s dick, long and thick with a pulsing straining vein on the underside, he wanted it in his mouth. He wanted to taste the glistening tip. He needed to slide it as far down his throat as he could. So with a wink, he did just that. His mouth closed over the tip. His tongue swirled and licked every drop of pre-cum, he reveled in the salty sweet taste that was Theo. Sliding his tongue down and licking the very root of his shaft with the tip. He cupped Theo’s balls and roughly tugged.

Theo shouted out a wordless sound and grabbed Draco’s head. The blonde stopped his movements and with a wave of his hand Theo’s wrists were bound together and secured over his head. He looked down and right into storm grey eyes. Then watched as the wizard continued to bobbed his head up and down, licking and sucking as he went. Never breaking eye contact. Draco sped up and slowed down. Keeping Theo right on the edge of bliss. Then he pulled off with the loud pop.

“Oh shit Dra. If I don’t come soon I’m going to die.” Theo gasped.

“Roll to your side.” Draco instructed. He whispered, releasing the binding spell. and then Theo heard the lubrication charm. Draco positioned himself on his side, behind him. He coated his dick in lube and also his fingers. Pushing Theo’s top leg so it was forward and bent, allowing easier access to the opening Draco was focused on. He worked Theo’s pucker, first one finger, then two then finally three fingers stretching and pumping deep. The other man was moaning, panting and begging, “Please Draco. Please fuck me.”

“I love to hear you beg Baby. Beg me to fuck you. Beg me to allow you to come. Your please only make me want to pump your beautiful cock and bring you to the brink of bliss and stop. I can do that over and over and over. So beg me Baby. Beg me to let you come.”

Theo pushed his ass into Draco’s hard shaft feeling the tip, coated in lube push against his entrance and with slow gentle nudges it broke through. The flared head locked into place by his tight ring of muscle. The let a groan escape, he pushed back, wanting more. Then the begging began. “Draco. Please. Please deeper. I need your cock.”

Draco smiled, he was not in a rush, “Slow down Love. I want to enjoy this. I want you to feel every inch of me slip in and slide out.” That is exactly what he did, he slid in and out at a slow leisurely pace. Holding the raven haired man’s back firmly against his chest, rubbing his chest and pinching his tihgt nipples and sliding over his defined abdomen and finally firmly gripping his cock. Sliding his other arm under Theo’s neck, cradling it in the bend of his arm. Holding him firmly in place, he whispered, “You are mine. Your body is mine. This cock is mine.” He stroked Theo’s cock slowly with a tight grip. “I will fuck you until you are screaming my name. Baby you will come with my name on your lips.”

Theo was chanting, “Yes. Yes, please. Yes sir.”

Draco liked when they fucked slow. Making love always turned into heat and sweat and hard fucking. He picked up his pace, driving deeper, faster and harder into him. His grip tightened on Theo’s neck holding him while he kissed and bit at his shoulder. His other hand stroked harder and faster. “Mine. You. Are. Mine.” Each word punctuated with a deep thrust. “Who do you belong to?”

“You. I am yours. Fuck me harder Dra. Please. Fuck. Me. Harder.” Theo begged.

Those words pushed Draco over. There was no thought, only feeling. Feeling the man he loved against him. Feeling his cock deep inside him. He rutted in and out as his hand pumped Theo tighter and faster. There was nothing but raw primal need and then Theo was shouting “Draco. Draco. Dra…”

Draco felt Theo’s release. He felt his muscles lock and the wet hot seed shoot through his hand and that was all it took. One… Two... Three... He shot his own release deep into Theo on the fourth thrust. Deep and hot into him. He felt it coat his cock and seep around him.

Theo reached behind him tipping his head and pulled Draco’s face to his, kissing him on the lips. :Dear gods I love you. I love your heart. I love your spirit. I love your cock” That earned him a pinch on his bum.

“Oh, I know you love my cock.” Purposefully pushing deeper into him. “You love when I take what’s mine and come deep inside.” Draco whispered.

Groaning loudly and reaching back, grabbing Draco’s ass, holding him firmly in place. “Stop the dirty talk or I will need to go for round two and then we will be late to dinner with mum.” Theo warned.

“I know.” Draco licked behind his ear. “I know we have to get going. Even though I would like to stay right here buried deep inside that lovely arse of yours. I will settle for holding you for just a couple more minutes.” Draco ran his hand through the beautiful black hair and kissed Theo’s shoulder.

“Hmmmm.” was his response. Lost in the tight embrace of his love.

A while later, they were bathed, dressed and sitting at the dining table with Narcissa. Draco thought she looked lovely. Tired but as beautiful as ever. “How was your day mother? Did you find some time to rest?”

“I had a nap earlier. Dromeda came over and brought over a couple of books.” Narcissa responded.

“Mum,” Theo said, “you need to rest, She should have waited to bring work over.”

Narcissa waved her hand at the wizard, “Oh not to worry. Not to worry. She did not bring work. It seems word of my episode yesterday reached her.” She made purposeful and accusatory eye contact with Draco. “She brought only books that are recreational. ‘Mindless reading’ as she put it.”

“Very good of Aunt Dromeda to stop by.” Draco said.

The witch smirked “Yes. Very kind of her. Now I have magical romance books sitting on my night table. Which your aunt has read and ‘can’t wait to discuss’ with me.”

Theo burst out laughing. Draco snickered. Narcissa just glared.

After a quiet dinner and a few games of magical darts, which Narcissa won, the three decided to retire for the evening. Draco and Theo had to be up early and floo to Hermione’s. They walked Narcissa to her rooms. Mopsy was staying the night with the witch. A new private nurse will be starting in the morning but Draco didn't want her alone tonight. They kissed her and bid her good night. She wished them good dreams. Then she asked them to please Hermione know she is thinking of her.

At two in the morning Draco and Theo woke up with a start. Something wasn’t right. They both felt panicked. Not directly but it was there underneath. Like dread. They rushed to the floo and tried to travel to Hermione’s but the floo was locked. The panic was growing.

Draco shouted, “Mopsy” and the elf appeared. Before she could say anything, he said, “Something is wrong with Miss Granger. We can’t get in, the floo is closed. You can pass through her wards and enter her residence. Tell her to open her floo.”

The elf didn’t wait; she popped out of sight. A few very long moments later she popped back with the tiny witch levitated in front of her. “Mopsy could not wake Miss. She had this on her bed table, the little elf handed Theo a potion bottle.

“Fuck a sleeping potion.” he said.

Just then they heard the witch whimpering and crying. She was saying something, “No. I’m so sorry. I was wrong. I shouldn’t have done that to you. I’m sorry. Please forgive me. I’m sorry. I’m sorry.”

She began to cry and thrash around. Theo cradled her into his arms and held her to his chest. “The draught she took is strong. If she took a whole dose, she won't be up for a few hours. This nightmare she is having may go on for a while.”

Draco said to Theo, “Take her to our room.” Then turning to Mopsy, “Go back to mum. Do not tell her anything about this incident. I don’t need her worrying.” Then Draco went to his study where he composed a letter to Potter.

Potter,
Hermione has a prior commitment that slipped her mind. She will be at the meeting with her department head and everyone else that doesn’t want her to resign but she will be late. I don’t foresee her being there before nine. Could you please inform the necessary people. Theo and I will be joining her.
Thank you.
Draco L. Malfoy

The letter was brief and to the point. He knew the witch was private about her condition. It was not his place to share her secrets. It was his job to protect her. Right now he needed to join Theo and do just that.

________________________

Hermione was confused. She felt arms around her. She felt a body pressed to her right and another to her left. Was she still dreaming? No, she had remembered her dream. She had remembered begging and pleading with all the gods to let her parents remember her. She wanted them to look at her and remember that she had her mom’s smile and her dad’s curly hair. She felt her chest tighten and a pain in her throat from holding back the sob.

Taking a deep breath to calm herself. She smelled parchment and rain, Draco. She also smelled cloves and cedar, Theo. Then she heard a slight buzzing sound and knew someone had cast a muffliato charm. Taking one more deep breath, she opened her eyes. She was staring at the ceiling, but not her ceiling.

Blinking a couple times and then the buzzing disappeared, and she heard Draco’s deep voice, “Good morning Sweetheart.” and he ran his finger down her right cheek to her collar bone.

Theo’s voice came from her left, “Good morning Beautiful.” and his fingers grazed her pulse point.

Finally getting her bearings. She sat up with a start, “How did…? When did…? What is going on?”

Draco sat up and leaned into her, “First things first.” he kissed her lips gently and then his lips worked their way down her neck.

Theo sat up and gave her a wicked grin and did the same.

Rolling her head, her skin tingling from their kisses. Feeling all of the tension leaving. Her body reacting to the two men, coming alive and drawing a rather loud moan from her. But then she stopped herself and took control of the situation. “Stop.” Both men sat up and looked at her. “How did I get here?”

“Well, last night Draco and I were sound asleep and then around half past two we both woke with an uneasy feeling. He was fine, I was fine. Mum was fine. The only one we cared about that was unaccounted for was you.”

Draco jumped in and said, “Once we both said your name we knew you were in some sort of distress. I don’t know how to explain it, other than your magic was calling to ours. Searching for something. Comfort. Help. Protection. I don’t know what it was. All we knew was that you needed us and we couldn’t get to you.”

Theo added, “Your bloody floo was locked and we didn’t have permission to enter. Also, your wards were in place.”

Hermione felt her forehead crease with confusion. “Then how did I get here? Did I sleep apparate? I’ve never done that before, I could have splinched myself.”

Draco grabbed her hand, “No. I sent Mopsy. Her magic is different from witches and wizards. She went right through your wards. She saw that you were in distress but couldn’t wake you. So she brought you back here.”

“I took a sleeping potion.” Hermione said.

Theo said rather sarcastically, “Yes. We know. She brought it back with her. What were you thinking? That was a very powerful potion. You should never take something that strong when you are alone. If your house started on fire, you would not have woken. If someone broke in, you wouldn’t have been able to defend yourself.”

Draco saw her getting anxious and cleared his throat. He couldn’t tell if it was aggravated anxiety or worried anxiety. So he rubbed her hand and clarified. “Theo means, we were very worried about you and couldn’t get to you to help.”

Hermione noted that Draco gave Theo a pointed look that silently instructed the wizard to calm down. Theo took a deep breath and then made to hold her other hand. “I’m sorry. I just felt such a need to get to you and we were unable. Then Mopsy showed me what you had taken and every bad scenario, muggle and magical came to mind.” He swallowed then added, “I couldn’t bare it if something bad happened to you.”

Hermione also took a deep breath and lowered her gaze. She was quiet for a while then the wizards heard it, a sob escaped her. First one then another. Both men rushed to kneel so they were facing her. Lifting her chin Draco saw tears streaming silently down her face.

Theo asked, “What is it Love? What happened?” He cupped her jaw, using his thumb to wipe the tears away. “Why are you crying?”

She couldn’t talk. She could only cry. Her shoulders shook. Her breath came in gasps. All they could do was hold her. There were no words of comfort, because they didn’t know what to comfort her for. There were no reassurances that everything will be alright, because they didn’t know that it would be. So they just held her and let her cry until she was able to tell them.

“Last night I couldn’t come back because a friend from Greece showed up unannounced. When I got home I found her note in my owl box. After I floo called her at her hotel, she came right over.” Pausing to swipe more tears away, “The last time I saw her was about a year and a half ago, but we correspond regularly. She came to tell me some distressing news. She did it in person so that she could stop me from overreacting and doing something I would later regret.”

Theo snorted, “Well that’s not ominous or anything.”

Draco gave him another very pointed ‘shut up’ glare. “Go on Love.”

“Well anyway. She told me… and honestly she was right to stop me.” Chewing her bottom lip, again lost in thought.

Again Theo, “Well are you going to share or are we supposed to believe that a Greek witch stopped you from committing some sort of magical crime?”

Draco wandelessly sent a stinging hex at his arse, causing him to jump and swear, “Fuck. Damn blonde git.”

That made Hermione smile. With a deep breath she said, “You know what I did to my parents to save them from Voldemort. Everyone knows what I did. I tapped into dark magic and obliviated every trace and memory of me from their minds, hearts and lives. Well as you know that magic was irreversible. I have sought the help of every person of influence that I know. I’ve spoken to or consulted with every expert in the magical world that I could think of. There is no correcting what I did.”

Draco trying to refocus her back on topic, “So who is this witch that came to see you? Is she another expert?”

Hermion wiped way fresh tears and said, “Anna is a witch that I met in Greece after the war. You see, that is where my parents now live. With their new lives, that are not new to them or their memories. In their world, they never had a daughter, never lived in Britain in a house in a good school district. They just met in university, dated, married, lived in an apartment, worked in a dental practice and then moved to Greece to start their own practice.”

Theo asked, “What does Anna have to do with your parents?”

“She and I became friends when I travelled there after the war. I went to see if I could reverse the magic. I was at the hospital consulting with a specialist. She was visiting her aunt when I was there and got the news that there was nothing that could be done. I was too thorough. I tapped into old magic and there was no one that could or would try to counter it. You see, it would mean risking their very lives. She saw me sitting in the hospital gardens, crying. I had cast a silencing charm so no one would hear me. Even though she didn’t know me, Anna came right up to me, didn’t ask why I was crying, she just held my hand for hours and let me sob.”

“So why was she here last night?” Draco inquired.

“Well we became friends. I stayed with her. I told her what I had done.” Stopping to wipe fresh tears. “She said she would have done the same to save her aunt. Her parents disowned her when she was a baby, when they found out she was a witch. But a distant aunt, also a witch took her in and raised her as her own. That was who she was visiting.”

Theo handed her a glass of water, she didn't realize how dry her throat was until she sipped it. When she finished the water she continued. “As I said, Anna and I became friends. She offered to keep an eye on my parents and keep me updated when I returned to England. So we have corresponded regularly and she lets me know how they are.”

Draco asked, “I take it that something happened to warrant her coming here to see you?”

She came to tell me that my father was in an accident. He was in the hospital for a short time and is now at home. He has a long road to recovery and a lot of rehabilitation to go through, but she assures me that he will be fine.”

Theo embraced her, “Oh Hermione. I’m so sorry. Why didn’t you come here with us? We would have taken care of you. We would have been there for you to scream or cry to.”

“I couldn’t. I couldn’t bring my shit to your door. I don’t deserve comfort. I don’t deserve soft words of reassurance. If I had not fucked with their lives they would be here fully aware of the magical world and its medical advantages for help.”

Draco whispered, “You're wrong. They would not be here. They would be dead. Voldemort had Bellatrix hunting for them. Had they stayed in England they would have been found, tortured and used to coerce you into turning Potter over. Then you all would have been killed.”

Hermione heard the shame in Draco’s voice. He wouldn’t look at her. She reached her hand to his face, lifting his chin so she could look into those beautiful eyes. “Draco, you saved them. Risking your life, you told Snape your suspicions, that the death eaters were searching for my family. He told the Order. I had enough notice to get them out. It was my decision to obliviate them. I believed that if Voldemort caught them and used legilimency on them he wouldn’t see me. He would believe he had the wrong muggles.” She leaned in and kissed him softly. “I never thanked you for your part in their survival. Thank you. They are alive because of your warnings.”

Draco looked at her, “Is your father going to be okay? Does he need anything?”

Theo added, “We can send a magi-healer in to evaluate him and ‘speed up’ his recovery.”

“That isn’t allowed. They don’t know anything about the magical world. That would be very dodgy.”

Draco’s trademark smirk lit up his handsome face. “Slytherin. Theo and I thrive on dodgy. I have a personal doctor that can be in Greece tomorrow. I guarantee he will have all the necessary paperwork to consult on your father’s case. There will be no charge since it will be under the guise of study and research.”

Hermione stuttered, “But the rules and laws.”

Theo chuckled, “The Greek Ministry is very different from the British Ministry. They are more relaxed. As a matter of fact the only one that is so strict is the British Ministry.”

New tears started falling down her face, “Oh Draco I would be forever grateful.”

He stood and said, “I will make the necessary arrangements.” and headed to the desk.

Hermione took that moment to cast a ‘wandless’ tempus. Theo whooped and hugged her. “That wandless was perfect.”

She jumped up yelling, “Shit, it's a quarter to eight. I was supposed to be in Ms. Drumfeld’s office at seven.”

“Theo pulled her back onto the bed and laid her down. He then climbed on top of her and said, “Drake told Potter you had another commitment, and he was to make the necessary notices that the meeting will not happen until nine.”

She blushed, “Oh. Well then I had better start getting ready. I have time to head home and shower.”

“No beautiful, you do not have time to head home and shower. You see, I feel the need to have breakfast in bed. Which requires you to stay in bed.”

“Theo, I have to at least try to look professional. My hair alone will take forever.”

“Silence witch. This will make both you and I feel better. Once I’ve eaten, and you’ve come. I’m sure Dra will want breakfast in bed too.”

From across the room Draco shouted, “Fuck yeah. I want to go to this meeting with the taste of Granger still on my tongue.”

With that confirmation, Theo vanished her clothes.

“Damit Theo, I liked that nightshirt.”

The wizard laughed, “It might be in the laundry.”

An hour later, after all three of them ate breakfast in bed, Hermione having a double helping, they headed to the main hall floo. She stated, “You know a bath should not be quick, it should be enjoyed. You really should think about installing a shower.”

Draco laughed at her, “I will look into it. You needed to bathe. Theo just had to come a second time all over your delectable tits. Cum somehow got into your hair.”

Theo groaned as he made to grab the floo powder, “Those fucking tits. I’m hard just thinking about my cum all over them.” Throwing the powder into the fireplace he said, “Ministry Atrium.” and was gone.

Draco laughed handing her the floo power. “Thank the gods for robes, I'm sure he is as hard as a tree trunk. I will look into getting a shower. I've never actually taken one. It seems muggles really do enjoy them.”

She grabbed a handful and smiled, “Tonight. My house. I’ll magically alter mine so we can all shower.” Then she threw the powder in and said, “Ministry Atrium” as she stepped into the flame she heard Draco say, “Fuck. Now I’m hard as a tree trunk.” She stepped into the atrium and giggled. Draco was right behind her.

The meeting lasted all of fifteen minutes. Once she made her plea to Kingsley, he accepted her resignation, ordered her personal pay to be deposited into her Gringotts account and wished her the best.

As they left Kingsley’s office Harry asked if they wanted to meet at the pub that night to celebrate Hermione’s change in careers. She was just about to politely decline when Theo said, “We would love to celebrate our girl. Tipsy Wizard tonight, say half past eight?”

Harry nodded. “I’ll let everyone know. Well, everyone but Ron.”

Hermione nodded. Her smile had a hint of sadness to it. Harry said, “Don’t. Don’t you feel guilty about him. He has been a right prick to you for a long time. He doesn't deserve to have you in his life. Especially after the birthday incident.”

She stiffened, “Harry. No…”

“Draco looked suspicious, “What birthday incident?”

Before Potter could say anything Hermione stuttered, “Nothing. It was nothing. Harry mis-spoke.”

Looking contrite Harry said, “Yes sorry. My mistake. Remembering something about someone else. Not Hermione. Well… I better go. Lots of people to contact.” With a lost look he hugged her and walked away as if a basilisk was after him.

Theo put an arm around her and kissed the tip of her nose. “All summer. We have all summer together.” His smile was so bright he almost tricked her when he asked. “What birthday incident?”

She started, “Ron was drunk… Oh you sneaky shit. Nothing. Don’t worry about it. That was just wrong.”

Theo smiled and said, “Slytherin.”

Draco didn’t smile. He was upset. So she didn’t say anything. When they got to the Ministry floo Draco grabbed the powder and left for the manor rather abruptly. She looked to Theo, worrying her bottom lip.

He pulled her lip out from between her teeth. “He will come around. Draco has the natural instinct to protect. He wants to protect you from everything. Even things that have hurt you in the past. Unfortunately he doesn’t realize that he is hurting you with his actions.”

“I’m sorry. It was something that happened before ‘us’. It’s over. I handled it. It is actually what ended Ron and my friendship. Harry is the only one who knows about the incident.”

Theo handed her the jar of powder and said, “Come on let’s catch up with him. It’ll be fine. He’ll get over it.”

She just smiled sadly, “I think I’m going to go to Hogwarts then home. I’ll meet you at the pub. I have plans to go over with McGonagall and let her know about the ministry job.” Before Theo could say anything, she turned and threw the powder and said, “Granger Rooms Hogwarts” and she was gone.

Theo’s floo command was so forceful the manor fireplace flared out into the room. Mopsy was staring frozen in her spot, “Where is he?” Theo demanded. The little elf, in her pink skirt and lavender blouse just pointed to Draco’s study. Theo stalked in that direction,

____________

Hermione stepped out of the fireplace in her rooms at Hogwarts. She knew the school’s wards would alert McGonagall that she was on the grounds. Being Headmistress, the school ‘communicated’ to her where her staff was when they were within its boundaries.

Seeing the plate of tea sandwiches appear on the small table along with a pot of tea. She looked up at the ceiling and said, to no one in particular, “Thank you.”

Just then she felt Fred’s presence before she saw him. “Hello Love.”

He materialized in front of her. “Hey Gorgeous. I wasn’t expecting you for a few more weeks. Are you dodging work?”

“No. I quit. I am a free lady until September. Well mid August, I will need to get a handle on all the damage that the ‘floating’ library staff has done.”

He laughed, “They really did make a mess of things.”

“Yes. Thank you for confirming that.” she snapped.

“Hey my witch, what’s wrong?” he asked.

She felt a warmth in her chest, hearing him still call her ‘his witch’. “You know, if you weren’t transparent. And I didn’t know you were a spirit…” Her thoughts trailed off.

“Honey, talk to me.” He insisted.

“Ron did something to me a while ago. Harry is the only one that knows. He slipped and hinted at it in front of Draco and Theo and now Draco is mad at me because I won't tell him. I know it will only feed his anger towards Ron. I know no good will come of him knowing. But Theo insists that it is Draco’s nature to protect what he considers his.”

“So the Slytherin Prince considers the Gryffindor Princess ‘his’?” Fred asked.

She was quiet for a long time. “I guess he does. I guess Theo does too.”

“How do you feel Hermione?”

She searched his eyes. God she wished she could see the soft blue that she loved. Was it wrong for her to be talking to Fred about Draco and Theo? As if he could read her mind, “You can talk to me about anything. I will always be on your side. I will always choose you. I will always want the best for you. Because I will always be in love with you. The way I loved you when I died.”

Tears burned behind her eyes, she blinked to hold them back. Smiling, “You will always be my first love. I will forever have a special place in my memories and my heart for a ginger haired devilish wizard.”

Nodding his head and crossing his arms, “As you should. Now tell me Hermione, what did my knob head of a brother do to you? I won’t tell anyone, but maybe I can advise you on how to proceed with your wizards.” He smiled and wiggled his eyebrows at her.

She thought about what he said, ‘her wizards’. She smiled and told him everything that had happened on her birthday two years ago. For a ghost he really got pissed off. She listened to his advice. Then she caught him up on her relationship with the two Slytherin wizards and even recounted some of their more intimate experiences. He said, “Well, well, well. You are the little sex minx I dreamed you to be.”

Feeling better after her talk with Fred, she stopped by McGonagall’s office to let her know that she will be in the library as often as possible over the summer to get it in order. Then the Headmistress took her to the shack. Hermione wanted to see the updates and wards that were in place for the student’s that she would be helping during their full moon change.

When she left the shack she went back to her rooms and took the floo home. Heading upstairs, undressing, she was just about to step into the shower when the wards at her back door told her Draco was there. She rushed down to let him in, forgetting that she was only wearing a towel.

As soon as she opened the door, Draco’s eyes locked with hers and she heard, “I’m sorry for being a daft prick. I…You’re naked.”

“Yes. I would have to be to take a shower.” She retorted.

“Why are you answering the door naked?” He asked as he shifted to block her from imaginary peepers.

“Come in. I wanted to get to the door before you left. I knew it was you. I adjusted my wards as soon as I got here. You, Theo and Narcissa can all enter without problem. My floo has been adjusted too.” She watched as the crease that had been forming between his eyes eased and softened.

As he closed the door behind him, in a softer voice he said, “I am so sorry I pushed. Whatever happened between you and the Weasle is your business. There are things in my past that only Theo knows. Things I’m too ashamed to tell you. BUT, if we are letting this triad develop, I know that I will tell you someday.”

She nodded her head in agreement.

________________________________

When Theo entered her living room two hours later, Draco was lounging in a chair in just his undershorts. “Well I missed something. I take it our witch accepted your apology?”

“Yes. And we are putting in a shower at the manor.” Draco smirked.

Theo threw a small dragon’s hide bag at him. “Here are your clothes you arse. I’m not a bloody house elf. I’m at home worried that she is still angry with you and you're here playing ‘wash the witch’?”

“We actually made up ten minutes after she answered her door in only a towel.” Draco said as he turned to go up the stairs. Theo sent a stinging hex to the man’s very shapely backside.

_______________________

They had a wonderful time celebrating Hermione’s career change. Potter was there with the she Weasley and Lovegood. Neville and Justin, George was with Angelina and of course Charlie. Ginny said. “Bill wanted to come, but Fleur is uncomfortably pregnant and veela’s are notorious for quick and sudden births. So they send their best wishes.”

Hermione was dancing with Charlie, “I went to see Fred today. He helped me with a dilemma.”

Charlie said, “Come this school term, you will get to see him a lot. I bet he is going to become known as the Library Ghost.” Then Charlie noticed Draco and Theo, “Hermione. Why are your wizards staring at us?”

She laughed, “Even though I have told them several times to the contrary, they are wondering if you and I have a ‘thing’ between us. I heard them talking earlier, trying to figure out if your magic is compatible with ours.”

He quirked an eyebrow up, “Compatible how?”

She smiled, “Well it seems, and you must keep this to yourself.”

He said, “Of course.”

She went on, “It seems, the three of us may just be in a true magical triad. Our magic not only senses each other but it speaks to and reacts to each other.”

Charlie stopped dancing and grabbed her shoulders. Holding her stare, “Hermione. That is fantastic. Do you know how rare that is? That is wonderful news.” Then he added, “Right?”

When she broke into a smile, he hugged her. “So why are they worried about me?”

“They think that you and I are; or were; or are meant to be in a relationship. I’m letting them stew for a while. I told them that we are not now nor have we ever been together but they have their doubts. So they can just worry for a bit.” She smiled sweetly.

Charlie laughed so loud everyone in their group turned to see what was so funny. “How very Slytherin of you. Everyone thinks you are so sweet, they have no idea what a mean little witch you can be. You know if it helps your situation you can tell them.”

“Thank you. I told them about Fred and that you and George consider me a little sister. I told them we are ‘friends’. but they still think there is some ‘magic’ between you and I. But...I will make it very clear and leave no doubt.” She paused and then smiled as if she were plotting something very devious. “Eventually.” she said.

He leaned in and whispered, “Well then let’s drive those wizards crazy.” and he wrapped her up in a hug that lifted the tiny witch off her feet.

The next few hours she danced with Draco, Theo, Harry. Ginny, Luna. She had just come off the dance floor when Neville raised his glass. “I know we are here to celebrate Hermione, but Justin and I have an announcement. Well two announcements.”

Justin put his arm around Nevills neck. “I have asked this handsome wizard to marry me. And he accepted.”

There were shouts of congratulations and hugs and hand shakes all around. Harry proposed a toast to the happy couple.

George asked, “What is the other announcement?”

Neville said, “It seems right after we are married, We will be fathers. Our witch is pregnant.” More shouts of surprise and congratulations.

Hermione hugged Neville. “That was fast. You might just be the first in the program to get pregnant.”

“Well as I told you she doesn’t want the babies. She wants to go to America. There is a wizard there that she wants to be with. Plus she is really young.” Neville said.

“I’m so happy for you both. Wow, a wedding and babies.” She hugged Justin.

Draco and Theo shook both wizards hands and offered them congratulations and best wishes. Hermione took the opportunity to tell them that she was really tired and would like to say her goodbyes. So the three of them made their rounds and she thanked everyone for coming and celebrating with her. “I know it is only eleven, but you all have to get up for work and I have to plan and start making lists of things that I need to do before the school term starts.”

George gave her a hug and then a pinch on the arm. “You know if you get tired of just laying about, I could always use you at the store. Angie has been doing wonders in marketing and sales promotion but that leaves me to invent and brew alone.”

Hermione had avoided the topic of Ron all night, but finally asked, “What about Ron?”

George said, “He pissed off to some unknown place. No one has heard from him. Mum said the clock doesn’t say where he is, only that he is alive and not in mortal danger.”

Angie joined the conversation and added, “Plus he stinks worse than a slime bog at brewing.”

Hermione laughed, “He never did pay attention in potions. I don’t think I will be joining you at the shop, but if you get stuck and need to brainstorm let me know. I’ll be glad to help if you need me.” Hermione said.

Then as they made their way to the door. Charlie caught her eye and winked conspiratorially. He pulled her to him and hugged her tight. Bending down so his mouth was right by her ear, his breath warm, his whisper tickled her sensitive skin, making her giggle, “Your wizards are going to love this.” Then in a clear loud voice he said, “Good night Love. I wish you sweet dreams. If you dream of dragons, you will have good luck.” Then he kissed her jaw.

Rolling her eyes and whispering back, “Good Godric. They are both going to have a fit of some sort trying to sort this out.” Then in a clear voice, “Good night my Dragon Tamer.” This caused him to smile and she winked and headed for the door. Noting that both Draco and Theo looked like they were hit with a Petrificus Totalis charm.

They were right on her heels to the apparition point in the ally. When the men caught up to her, Draco inquired, “Are you coming to the manor?”

She thought it funny but she hadn’t thought of going to her house. Hmmm. Curious. “Yes. If that is alright with the two of you.”

They both looked taken aback. Theo said, “Hermione. You are always welcome. Draco and I would have you with us every night. Don’t ever think there are any plans that are more important than you. Than us.”

Draco added, “Besides we both sleep better with you in bed.”

She smiled, “Me too. I’ll just pop home to grab a few things. Then floo to the manor.”

“Do you want us to come with you?” Draco inquired.

“No. I’ll only be a few minutes behind you. Why don’t you draw a bath? I would love a soak before bed.” Draco nodded and she apparated home.

True to her word, she was only about fifteen minutes behind them and she slipped right into the tub. After their bath, she cuddled between them. As she started to doze off a thought came to her. “Is it okay that I’m in the middle?”

Theo chuckled into the darkness. “Absolutely. You fit perfectly between us.”

With that confirmation, she kissed them both and once again said, “Theo kiss Draco good night so we all have sweet dreams. Once that was done she fell into a contented sleep.