Where the Wild Things Are

Chapter 15

Hermione was glad for the three witches that were becoming her companions. Jess and Des often would talk to her about their travels while Tatiana would speak about growing up in South America. It was a good escape from the prison on her own mind as of late. Today was an exception. Ethan made it quite clear by leaving the letter in the mess hall, that he wanted it to be talked about.

"He hasn't written?" Tatiana asked and Hermione glared at her.

"Has he written back to you?" She questioned and the woman blushed lightly. "Oh..." Was all Hermione could say.

"Just about work and asking how your training is going." The darker witch responded with a frown.

Des pursed her lips, "I know this is hard, but we all know Charlie, it is a rarity that he is... monogamous."

Jess glared at her and shook her head, "don't fill her head with stupid doubts. He said he loved her. I don't believe it, Hermione. He isn't a liar."

Hermione swallowed a bite of her sandwich and shrugged her shoulders, "even if he is, it isn't like we are dating or married. I told him to... well, to seek our small comforts..."

The other Dragon Keepers glanced at each other, "then why not find small comforts yourself?" Tatiana asked and Hermione grimaced.

"He ruined me, Tai. I wouldn't be able to shag other men for a lust filled enjoyment." She was being honest; Hermione was satisfied with him.

Jess shook her head, "something doesn't smell right, and it isn't the ink. Unless he is completely wrenched, why wouldn't he write?"

"Maybe he realized he is falling too hard?" Des asked and Hermione slumped slightly.

They had an amazing Christmas together. It was perfection and when he left the next day her heart throbbed in sorrow. Their letters were thick with missing each other and Hermione knew he was sullen from the heartsickness. It could easily be a way to pass the time or it could be a painful acceptance that it has run its course... she wasn't sure and him ignoring her was only making it worse.

"It doesn't matter," Hermione declared and cleared her throat, "it won't change to dwell on this poisonous plot either. Let's talk about something else, please?"

The others nodded, "The Ironbellies are acting up again." Burgis's voice entered the room.

He was followed by Torg who groaned and flopped down at the table next to Hermione, "Are you sure you still want to do this?" He asked her with a smile and she nodded.

"More than ever, trust me. I am excited," she giggled and Burgis sat down on her other side.

"I just want to waste the afternoon with an ale and a sweaty woman," Burgis grumbled and rubbed his face.

Hermione smirked, "I cannot supply the ale, but I can kick your arse in a sparing if you need a sweaty woman." She teased and he nudged her.

"I let you win last time," he retorted and she shook her head.

"You fight dirty, Hermione. I don't like it," Torg snickered and she feigned surprise.

"Touching my chest in a suggestive manner is not fighting dirty!" She voiced with a playful smile.

The two Ukrainians grumbled and waved her off, "Char is a bastard," Burgis spat, "you should have played with us a bit before he hooked you on his cock."

Hermione belted out a stream of laughter and shook her head, "I think not."

They smiled at her and Tatiana cleared her throat, "I am still open for offers," she murmured with a raised eyebrow and the men blushed lightly.