Through the Years

A look at Neville's feelings during his time at Hogwarts

- 1st Year – Hogwarts Express -

Neville Longbottom hadn't ever had a reason to feel special until now. Even his gran knew that he was nothing special – she was just glad that he was a wizard like his brilliant father and not a squib. No, Neville hadn't done something great to feel special this once. In fact, he had done a pretty stupid thing: he had lost his pet toad, Trevor.

The reason he felt special now has that he collided with someone while searching the train. The reason he felt special was that that someone turned out to be a sweet brunette who offered to help find Trevor. The reason he felt special was Hermione Granger.

- 2nd Year – Gryffindor Common Room –

Potions class was the most difficult for Neville. Granted, he wasn't really good at anything except Herbology, but Potions was exceptionally trying for the young Gryffindor. He sat arched over his Potions book, reading it yet again and feeling just as confused as the first time he struggled through it.

"Something wrong, Neville?"

Neville looked up to see a bushy haired girl peaking over a thick textbook.

"Oh, just Potions homework," he mumbled in response. He could feel blood rising to his face.

"Let me see…" said Hermione. She walked over and took the book from him, brushing his shaking hand in the process. She shook her head and smiled at him, placing a finger on her cheek in a very teacher-like fashion before explaining the use of acromantula venom. Neville had never been happier doing potions homework.

- 3rd Year – Quidditch Stands –

Students from all houses were gathered once again at the Quidditch pitch to see the first game of the season. Neville, Hermione, and Ron sat at the front of the Gryffindor section donning scarves and hats of scarlet and gold. Even though he couldn't see them, the trio waved madly at Harry.

The match was looking good (Oliver was still smiling) and seemed to be nearing a close, much to Neville's dislike. He had been sitting quite close to Hermione and wanted it to stay that way.

Then the unthinkable happened. Harry began to slip off his broomstick. There was a unified gasp from Gryffindor as their Quidditch savior lost his grip and tumbled to the wet grass below. Neville's fear for Harry was lessened, however, because a certain girl had a tight hold on his hand.

- 4th Year – Yule Ball –

"Hi Hermione!" said Neville.

Although he was still dancing with Ginny, he only had eyes for Hermione. She looked beautiful in her dress robes and her hair looked perfect…she looked perfect. She had a drink in one hand and a date on the other: at least she was honest when she turned him down.

"'Lo Neville," she replied hastily. A fast-paced song was starting and she wanted to dance with her Durmstrang date.

Neville took the hint and slipped back into reality where he was still holding Ginny's waist. She didn't appear to have missed his full attention, though: she was watching Harry. Smiling, Neville watched Hermione slip into the dancing bodies. He was so engrossed that he didn't notice a blonde Ravenclaw twirling her hair and watching him from a nearby bench.

- 5th Year – Hogwarts Express –

This had to be her – who else would read The Quibbler and tuck their wand behind their ear? She was different that he had expected. He pictured a crazy smile and untamed hair when he thought of Luna Lovegood. He certainly didn't picture her to be this…pretty. She wasn't drop-dead gorgeous or anything, but…

"Neville!"

Neville whirled around and came face-to-face with Harry Potter and Ginny Weasley.

"All of the compartments are full," he sputtered, trying to cover up the fact that he had been watching 'Loony' Lovegood.

"Nonsense!" said Ginny. "That one had plenty of room!" She was pointing directly behind Neville. He sighed and muttered under his breath. Something about this girl scared him. She seemed different…like him.

On the bright side, he could now examine her without feeling guilty now.

- 6th Year – Dumbledor's Funeral -

"Easy now," coaxed Luna softly. Her hand was perched on Neville's shoulder as she guided him into the shiny metal folding chair.

Neville let out a heavy sigh and leaned back slowly. His muscled ached and he had trouble moving his left leg. The battle in which the headmaster had died left Neville weak and injured.

Luna moved her hand to Neville's wrist, unconsciously gripping it gently.

Neville smiled and looked over at her. Though she did not turn her head, she felt his gaze and smiled as well, moving her hand back to her own lap.

Neville suddenly felt empty, but he didn't know why. Surely her touch didn't mean that much to him? He shook off the thought and turned his attention to the marble tomb of Albus Dumbledor.

- 7th Year – Room of Requirement –

Neville smiled at the Room of Requirement: it had really outdone itself. Hammocks hung everywhere and many young wizards and witches knew they were safe from the Carrows.

"Letter for you," said Seamus, handing him a yellow envelope.

He tore it open and read:

Dear Neville,

Our friends Harry, Ron, and Hermione rescued me from the Death Eathers. I know you worry when something happens to me, so I want you to know that I am safe. I can't wait to see you again.

-Luna

Relief filled Neville like wand light in the darkness: Luna was safe.

"Do I really worry when something happens to her?" he asked himself. He lost sleep when anyone was in trouble but yes, his worry increased when Luna was involved.

"Luna is safe, everyone," Neville announced to his fellow students. A cheer erupted from the group and Ginny rose to embrace him.

"I know you really missed her," she stated quietly. "It must be a relief."

"How would you know?" he asked defensively.

"I've seen you looking at that picture," she said with a feeble smile.

Astounded, Neville reached into his pocket and pulled out a worn photograph. He and Luna were standing by a thestral. Luna was smiling and waving and he was looking down at her. How long had he stared at that picture? How many others had noticed?

"Don't worry," reassured Ginny with a broad grin. "I've been rooting for you two since that first day on the Hogwarts Express."

Neville nodded unthinkingly as Ginny joined Seamus for a game of wizard chess.

In truth, he was a bit glad that someone else knew – like he wasn't the only one in on a big secret. He couldn't wait to see Luna again. This time, he promised himself, he would let Luna in on the secret too.