You know what they say about eavesdroppers - rewrite

by Billybob - csagun36

Alternate universe based on the butterfly theory of time travel. The final outcome of the Ron-Hermione ship is 'saved' due to an overheard 'late night' chat between George and Ron (post war). fears are expressed and answered.

1. Chapter 1

''You know what they say about eavesdroppers

Originally done by SomeKindOfMagic12 – user-ID #2083374 at fanfiction dot net

You can still find the original version but you're going to have to hunt for it.

A rewrite has been done, by Billybob – csagun36: user-ID # 641050, a huge Ron fan who has attempted to contact the original author several times for permission to do a rewrite - - during the timeframe of: … 06-07-2015 to 09-08-2015 and without response.

Original Word count total was; 18,681

Rewritten word count; 37,145 - - so I have changed it … a-lot

Rewrite word count part 1; - - 18,472

Originally Rated: K - English –

Rewritten also in English, but changed into being rated a strong M

Romance/adult themes and language – let me repeat myself – ADULT THEMES - if you cannot deal with the concept of the HP characters as sexual beings, then by-all means_ STOP.

This is an- Alternate Universe – with a - Hermione & Ron pairing (yes this is a rare Ron Hermione romance for me these days) BTW … alternate universe in the HP world means that this story diverts from establish cannon. So book characters will change, due to a single decision – which brings about a different outcome to cannon events and that change is a result of what is called; the 'butterfly theory of time travel' – that any alteration in the original cannon time-line will result in massive changes in the outcome: (meaning) a different future is created by Ron telling George all his- 'fears' - concerning Hermione and her overhearing this chat and 'responding'. - -

In SomeKindOfMagic12 original story; I think I stumbled across an- in cannon Butterfly -that if interpreted differently from the way Rowling's did it … would massively change the epilog outcome.

Referenced throughout is a great HP story - - 'The Scarlet Pimpernel': originally penned by' Elyse3 and then rewritten by me; (naturally) by Billybob – csagun36; user-ID # 641050

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Original A/N: Hello there! This is my first ever story written. I don't know what inspired me, or what made me write it, but anyway here it is. Let me tell you two things first: 1) I am French Canadian, so English isn't my forte, even though I think I can hold my own; 2) this is based on a George/Ron post-Battle brotherly love relationship! Please if you could let me know how you find it I'd really love (no slash, I mean yuck...). Please if you could let me know how you find it I'd really appreciate it.

Rewrite A/N: (repeat) I have tried on several occasions to contact SomekindofMagic12 to get permission to publish this rewrite and I fear that he/she has moved on to other things in life and left HP fanfiction behind. If this expansion/rewrite is objectionable to SomeKindOfMagic12 and he/she wants me to pull it I will in a heartbeat.

I give SomeKindOfMagic12 full credit for the original short story.

*Personal note: I recently went and browsed about in HP fanfiction – and I quickly discovered that the Ron/Hermione ship has all-but disappeared (sunk) - loads of thanks to JKR for rethinking the ending and the rbw/HJG pairing. Anyway, this might well be the very last rbw/HJG relationship fiction ever posted … so enjoy.

Standardized disclaimer: This story is based in the world created by J. K. Rowling, she owns all legal rights to the characters, setting, etc. - I am merely borrowing the contents of the JKR world for my own amusement and that of my 'few'readers. In other words… her characters… my plot… savvy?

And so it begins… with part # 1

Hermione P.O.V.

I woke up drenched in sweat, relieved to be in my own bed, or should I say Ginny's extra-bed. I looked at the clock on my bedside table; 2:30AM. We'd arrived at the Burrow six weeks ago, and every night, it was the same thing. I went to sleep and then a few hours later I woke-up in terror, well before the first rays of sunlight; …every single night.

I always dream about the same thing; Endless days living in a drafty tent with death eaters searching for us everywhere. Ron leaving me, his last words an accusation that I had chosen Harry romantically over him… and that pronouncement still haunt's me. The Godric hallow Nagini's attack on Harry and finally …worse than all the others combined; what happened to me at Malfoy Manor.

I have tried very hard not to burden the people around me with my silly night terrors. No-one at the- Burrow – knows about them … especially not... him. - Instinctively knowing that trying to fall back to sleep was a hopeless task, I decided to head downstairs to get myself a cuppa of tea. I got out of bed and from pure habit – I left Ginny's room as quiet as I could. I don't know why I bother; one glance and I can see that Ginny's bed was empty …again. As I was heading downstairs, I heard muffled sounds coming from the twin's room. The twins… Or should I say George's room, now? It had been extra difficult for that particular Weasley to bear that particular loss.

A few days after the last battle … we had all returned to a damaged Burrow. It took some elbow-grease and with Molly - 'more or less out of action' … it fell to Ron to do almost all of organizing of the repairs. Arthur and Percy unfortunately, were bureaucrats by trade, with zero skills in household reconstruction. Luckily for all concerned; my Ron seemed strangely inspired and under his directions the repairs were quickly completed.

A week after Fred's funeral; Bill and Fleur had gone back to Shell Cottage to try to pick up the pieces of their damaged home and 'carry-on' with life. Charlie had done the same thing a couple of days after that; going back to the dragon preserve in Romania …but the loss of so many friends during the civil-war; especially Fred …had fundamentally changed the entire Weasley family … forever.

Each of the remaining Weasley's were trying to 'carry on' as best they could, but I knew they each broke down from time to time. - Mrs. Weasley in particular was in the worst shape, unable to do more than light housework while sobbing uncontrollably. Every day, after dinner, she would fall to pieces in her husband's arms and would go straight to bed without saying goodnight.

Because of Mrs. Weasley's – 'condition' … her husband had not yet been able to go back to work full-time… and Percy, the stunningly surprising and now famous 'Scarlett Pimpernel'. Who had saved so many, right under the nose of the Death Eater controlled Ministry…was now the First Undersecretary and- Deputy Minister -directly under Shacklebolt. I could clearly see two things after this news was made public - how hard it was for Arthur to be strong for Molly… and how proud the entire family was in Percy, the once estranged.

I wish I could help out more, but I had my own 'fair share' of problems to solve; which were mostly centered on my parents. - Oddly enough it was Percy; as busy as he was in reorganizing the Ministry and purging the entire bureaucracy of Death Eater- 'sympathizers and collaborators' -that would take the time every few days, to take me down to the Ministry, so that I could get an update on the search for my parents. I would occasionally speak to Kingsley directly about the search. The new Minister was also extremely busy at his new job and yet was kind enough to take the time out his day, to speak to me and reassured me that the search for Wendell and Monica Wilkins was the number one priority of the newly 'reconstituted' UK magical foreign office.

The magical Australians were being extra cooperative, but the search would clearly take a while. The spells I had used to hide my parents were deliberately complex, so as to prevent them from being found magically. Until there was proper news, Percy gently suggested that I should continue to stay with the Weasley's where I could get emotional support (from Ron -obviously).

Kingsley himself told me that the Australians were highly impressed with my concealment spells, which were highly resistant to all forms of canceling spells. My spells were still concealing my parents from magical searches but they had narrowed the (Muggle-style) of foot search, to somewhere around the major city of Sydney and it was hoped that they would be found and brought back in Britain, before the 'start of term' at Hogwarts on first of September.

This was great to hear, however it didn't lessen my primary worry concerning my parents and that was how they would be respond to having their memories altered without their consent. There was more than just a good chance that they might not ever- 'forgive me' -for packing them off to another country with zero say in such a major life changing decision. This fear of being disowned was a big part of why I didn't sleep at night.

What I did to them, was a thousand times worse than the original reason behind Percy becoming estranged from his family. For almost the entire war Percy had been hated by his own family and still would be today, had he not saved so many as the 'Scarlett Pimpernel?' There had to be something seriously wrong with the fact that I accepted so casually the risk of being permanently disowned; when I did what I did, - - just because I couldn't bear the thought of the Death Eaters torturing my parents to make me betray Harry. I literally put Harry, a bloke who never really fancied me; ahead of my parents – if Harry had loved me … even briefly, it would have been the logical thing to do. But Harry had never … I repeat- NEVER - fancied me … so why did I do it? Anyway; soon enough it will be time for me to pay, for what I did. Several times since it had happened, Ron had tried to get me to talk about what I had done – but Harry never brought it up … not once.

My private worries aside; my main concern inside the Weasley family was George, - - of course; he was - not well …in fact he was very far from being even remotely ok. After Fred's death he spent most of his time in his room, not coming down for meals and violently refusing almost all contacts with the outside world. We often heard small explosions coming from his room and sometimes, we heard sobbing. With the rest of family in their own grief induced daze …by unspoken agreement… they all decided to leave George alone… but there was one notable exception to that judgment.

For it had been Ron that had stubbornly refused to let George withdrawal into a shell and quietly die. A few friends came to see him (now and then) but most were driven away, but then Ron had stepped-up and intervened - by talking directly to George's really close best friends; the visits continued … thus preventing him from becoming a total recluse. It had been Ron who had taken away Georges wand …fearing suicide. While the rest of his family walked-about in a zombie like state due to their own deep angst over the loss of so many friends. Ron was again the exception … for instead of allowing everyone from giving into the despair surrounding them. Ron seemed to become super focused on the everyday struggle of living, forcing George to function. In point of fact; it was due primarily to Ron - - that the major housekeeping, the laundry and the cooking of meals got done.

This out of character behavior came as the biggest surprise to me, for after doing the majority of the cooking during the Horcrux hunt. I for one …had no-idea that Ron could cook complicated meals for so many. But day after day, I stood-by… utterly gob-smacked in utter-amazement as Ron literally became the caretaker for his entire family… Harry and I included. I found myself feeling guilty at times for being so emotionally distracted… with my own worries over my parents; preventing me from helping Ron do more of the everyday household chores around the- Burrow. Thankfully Harry pointed out to me that - being 'super responsible' might be Ron's way of dealing with his- (Fred) -grief.

Speaking of Harry; he and Ginny were the only positive-attitude people to be found around the- Burrow. Practically joined at the hip with the often annoying habit of disappearing for extended periods of time, especially when there was a household chore to do. What amazed me the most – however; was whenever he was separated from Ginny, (even for a few hours) how easy it was for Harry to begin to slip back into a state of deep depression, where he would become so guilt-ridden over what had happened – he would quickly reach the point of being no longer able to function.

Harry's mood swing bouts with depression had happened a-lot more often after Ron left us too – and I could tell because I knew him so well. Ron had once been the rock that kept Harry sane – and me too, to tell the true. His abrupt absence from the tent was more devastating than either of us wanted to admit. I try to avoid thinking about that dark-time and I bet Harry does too. Ron is still my rock; but Harry has found another stone to lean on… his new lady; for Ginny seemed to know which buttons to press on Harry to keep him in a somewhat up-beat and positive attitude.

As an outside observer, I was genuinely surprised as to how fast they reconnected romantically, Ginny being as strong willed as she is and determined to get the man she wanted … apparently moving heaven and earth to take a messed-up war Hero (nearly suicidal at several points) and returned him to what passed for normal … well … for Harry anyway. I knew he'd been an abused child while growing-up with the Dursleys - in fact - it was remarkable how Ginny had managed to keep Harry even remotely sane. I could only envy the easy way she handled Harry's frequent mood swings - time and again I saw with my own eyes the way she could get him out of the deepest depression with just a few words or a suggestive look.

Come to think on it; during the seven years of close proximity I have had with Harry, I never came close to handling another human being - with the ease that Ginny displayed every day while she was in the company of her moody boyfriend. Anyone who knew my history with boys in general … and Ron in particular would know that I have never been a people person. Although I came up with the concept of the- 'D.A.' -and managed to persuade a few people to join; I'm sure the concept would have ended as badly as my S.P.E.W venture, had I not 'forced' Harry into leading it.

Ron in particular has always been difficult to deal with… but then-again; 'one on one' – 'person to person' persuasion, has always been a major weak-spot for me. I had to argue each point with him, yell at the top of my voice and convincing him of anything was always a fight – tooth and nail. But without getting Ron's approval - I knew that Harry wouldn't sign-on to anything I purposed… and that was one- 'fact of life' -that I always found infuriating.

Since the war however; I've had time to revisit in my mind; the last year before the final Battle and that reflection has led me to speculate that the- 'lack of a Weasley' -in the tent (from mid-November to early February) - was the main reason the hunt unraveled near the end. Weasley's are people friendly, (Ron in particular) they don't push them away like I did constantly at Hogwarts. Without Ron's support (after he had left) it quickly became next to impossible to get Harry to be proactive about anything concerning the hunt.

I openly envy Ginny and Harry's mutual support system … for she seems to know how to motivate Harry in ways I never could without nagging. Far less confrontational than me - Ginny avoids the worst of the old arguments I use to have with Ron over day to day operations and Ginny also seems to be better able at handling with Harry the crushing depressions caused by the all too numerous funerals we have had to attend recently.

I had actually expected Ron to pound Harry into the ground for openly- 'groping' -his little-sister in front of almost everyone; especially when we first got back to the- Burrow - and at times …even I was surprised to observer, that he was exercising extra restraint over the physical aspects of the renewed Ginny-Harry romance. I honestly anticipated a full blow-up to happen, sooner rather than later; but instead… I found myself gob-smacked, yet again … for Ron must have taken them aside at some point and said something to them both (privately) - before Molly caught on… naturally. For at least during the time span that Mrs. Weasley was up and about - their public-displays of affection were 'abruptly' reduced; to them just holding hands when they walked-about the- Burrow. How the rest of the family missed the change - Merlin only knows.

I'm glad Ron just had a (non-violent) chat with them, for honestly; just the sight of them so enraptured with each made all the other Weasley's (including me) - break into a rare smile. I figured that they both missed each other while they were apart, and now they really wanted to make every moment count. There actions had one very notable side-effect on me, for Ron and I also spent most our time together, but with far less - improper touching - involved.

Since he came back to me, I have been repeatedly amazed at changes in Ron - - to the point that he had appeared to have become a different person. - A man I had often overlooked as unimportant in 'greater scheme of things' – to the point that I had deliberately ignored him for years; had seemingly overnight, undergone a stunning transformation. I suspected that war had changed all of us, but I didn't expect such a major change in Ron - - I would often just sit at the kitchen table observing him - - under the guise of keeping him company while he cooked a meal- or -did the wash-up afterwards.

I wish I'd known about this cooking talent during the hunt - - and funny thing was … when I called him out on it; Ron got right in my face and answered back, by saying that in the tent I had - insisted - (right from the off) on doing- all -the cooking because - - and - he had the gall to quote me exactly; "Boys can't cook'. It was embarrassing to have my own words thrown back in my face, (which did admittedly) silence my complaining - for a-bit …especially when I remembered all the meals I ruined.

So as the summer went-on, we would often be found in the kitchen doing dishes after a meal; bickering about nothing and everything - - like an old-married couple. The first time Bill pointed out our odd behavior, I stammered a hot denial and blushed something crazy. But later, whenever I thought about-it, I got this feeling of warm-contentment and just smiled.

In sprite of my many non-stop worries about being disowned by my parent's, I tried my hardest to be there for Ron as much as I can, and I think he appreciates it. We haven't talked … at-all about the kiss during the battle of Hogwarts, but we DO kiss 'a lot' more often … now. It's like since the battle happened, I can't seem to keep my lips off of him. Oh he kisses me back of course, and its great … but at the same time it's become worrisome, because recently; I seem to be drawn to Ron like a moth to a flame - - and sometimes… my growing desire for him (physically) have become downright alarming. I use to be able to keep such reproductive- urges -at arm's length, but since we started kissing my need for him has grown to dangerous levels and I often worry that … very soon I'll give in to the temptation of having sex with him.

Adding to his increased overall desirability is the fact, that Ron is so much more mature now – he's gentler and openly affectionate, while being extra attentive to my everyday needs. There are too many examples to recount; Ron always takes my hand under the table at dinner, and when we all gather in the lounge, he sits right next to me or on the floor by my feet, always a bit too close for it to be all innocent … but I love it to bits. I never thought being close to a boy would feel so good. Of course, I'd hoped that kissing Ron would bring us closer, but I'd never have thought it'd be this close … this fast - and sometimes it all feels … a-tad unnerving. - - So to slow things down, I've limited Ron to cuddles and kisses.

Most amazing of all, Ron talks to me about Fred. He's tight lipped with everyone else …even Harry. But with me he opened-up big-time. Yes, Ron-emotional-range-of-a-teaspoon-Weasley has let me … and- only me, into his soul! In fact I feel a-bit guilty about the one-sided nature of this exchange, because I don't talk much about myself at all, he trusts me with his feelings while I hold back on mine. It's- my -sexual urges, that frightens me … I just know it - and it's preventing me from moving us to the next level in our budding relationship. I fear losing control of myself …and giving in to him; thankfully for me; the moment things get to heated and I tell him to stop … he does… at once.

Maybe; just maybe … if I was more demonstrative in my feelings for him, he might not change the subject whenever I bring up our future as a couple… especially when it comes to what happens, after - I return to Hogwarts in the fall. I mean. I don't really mind. Four months ago, (while he was gone) I almost hated him …and now… everything is arse over elbows. I can't get enough of him. But I'm not worried really; it'll sort it-self out, I'm sure …given enough time.

So, imagine my surprise when at two-thirty in the morning; as I was passing by George's room, I heard voices.

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"…don't know what to do. I mean, what am I without him? It feels like half of me; is – missing." That was George. I often wondered what I could possibly say to him; about Fred… to soothe George.

"I know it's hard for you, George. I can't even begin to understand how much it hurts you, but you can count on me, mate. I won't let you down." said a soft voice with grim determination. What he had said had been perfect, delicately put; supportive and thoughtful. Who would have thought that could come out of my Ron… right?

"Ron, I'm so grateful that you're here every night with me like this. Seriously, no one gets me like you do… especially as you've got your own worries to think about?"

"Yeah…Like what? What could be more important right now, than a brother who needs me… the gnomes running amuck in the garden or the- 'Chudley Cannons' -actually winning a match? … Come on George get real!" Ron said, sounding a bit hurt.

"How about… Hermione." was the soft response and it was met with silence. An uneasy silence from what I could gather. I heard the bed creak and in the shadows, so I peeked in the space of the slightly opened door and the door frame - and saw Ron becoming very un-comfortable besides his brother.

"Ah… Well, yeah…about that. I mean, nothing's even remotely official, or anything like that… to tell the truth… I'm not sure whether she has made-up her mind about giving up on Harry just yet. Our romance … if that's what this is … has only been going for a couple of months."

"You're kidding, right? Your romance of her has been a seven year project in the making. I guess it makes it the world's longest courtship in Weasley family History - - Nothing official; my arse!" - George said sounding exasperated. "What more do you need… a bloody marriage certificate?"

Ron forced an uncertain laugh, but knowing him as well as I did… I could easily sense …that what I had heard in his voice was underlining fear. His fake laugh was an attempt to disguise the fact from George; that he didn't really know how I felt about him - - which was entirely my fault - - and that uncertainty was clearly tearing him apart. She thought to herself

"Seriously, mate", George continued; missing entirely the subtle-clue I had noticed in his laugh. "Don't go wasting your time on me, here. I'll be alright. It might take a while, but I'll survive. I actually look forward to 'some' of my visitors now. Angelina for one - and that's because of you. Because my bloody Git of a little brother talks to me before I go to bed and makes sure I eat and everything. I swear - you're channeling Mum, more and more every day? You're going to be one hell of a dad one day Ronnie".

"Truly though - if you want Hermione to be the mum of your nippers you should spend your nights sweet talking her, like Harry does with our little Giniekins." Ron must have made a face, because George chuckled before saying, "Yeah, I know. That must surely be immoral on some level, just the thought of them shagging gives me the willies. Better get used to it though. Besides Ronnie - - better him than anybody else, I can think of…"

"Yeah, I know you're spot-on about Harry and Gingin," Ron replied with a resigned sigh. "I really don't give him enough credit. Breaking –up with our Ginny to protect her was either noble as hell – or – really-really bloody stupid. In an odd way … the two of them, being together now; is actually a source of comfort for me. With Harry and Ginny soul-bonded as they are - - and yes, they are bonded … I've seen it too big brother - - that means that I just- 'might' -have more than an outside chance to be with Hermione romantically …someday".

There was an awkward pause in the conversation and as I leaned closer; after a bit, I heard Ron speak again; in a sad and softly resigned tone: "I guess; that somewhere during the last few years my- 'Bogart fear' -of spiders (from back in fourth year), has changed into Hermione having mind-blowing sex with Harry".

In the hall, I felt aghast - and utterly gob-smacked by this news.

"I got really worried when Harry became- 'free' -after breaking up with Gin-gin," Ron reluctantly continued. "What with Hermione – right there; so close to him and all. She always putting him first you know, - - still does to a point. Always fixed his plate first during the hunt – always worried if he was okay – you know?"

"I was somewhat reassured at the beginning of the hunt; because I think Harry regretted breaking it off with Ginny," Ron mused while thinking out-loud. "But then the situation changed, late in October right after the Ministry raid, he abruptly stopped staring every night at the Marauders map of Hogwarts … just staring at her name – and I mean for hours. It was rather sudden, but he suddenly lost interest in Ginny's whereabouts".

"Why?" George asked

"I thought that perhaps Harry saw Giniekins and some bloke in a broomcubord and he gave up on our sister just as abruptly as he did with Cho", Rod admitted. - "Of course…that's only a theory. I don't really know what happened… but whether or not Harry stopped fancying Ginny during the Hunt was still only one side of the coin, - as Hermione still fancied him loads-more than she ever did me".

"Maybe she still does", George interjected. "But Harry loves our little sister now - - I mean it's bloody obvious - - you know. But; if I get your drift… you're worried Hermione's just; 'settling' -for you, because Harry doesn't fancy her – is that it?

"- - That's it in a nutshell … yeah," Ron said quickly - interrupting. "I mean, it's a bit- strange -talking to you about them… given the fact that you've always given me the piss for it… well; for how I felt about her actually …as in…when was I going to man-up and tell her my feelings - - eh?"

"Just a gentle push Ronniekins – that's all it was," George replied sounding mildly amused.

"Speaking of family romances… now that Gin-gin has landed her- Chosen-One. What do you honestly think of her … Hermione I mean?" Ron's request had an edge to it, like he was waiting for George to mock him.

"Ron. I know … Fred and I were- royal git's -giving you the mickey about Hermione. But you have to admit you were and easy target – and it was loads of fun! We figured you've had it real-bad for her since the end of third year, which is odd; because you didn't publicly acknowledge that she was a girl until a year later…"

"That's not true." interrupted Ron. "I knew as far back as end of second year. - - Oh my God, I was fascinated all right. How could I not be? - I've always been attracted to her on some level, like a moth to a flame. I just didn't know what the attraction was… not at first. By early fourth year however and especially during that damnable… Yule Ball …I knew – 'why' - I was a total goner …because she's the sexiest witch on two feet, smiling-big and looking so beautiful - on the arm of her first boyfriend …Viktor Krum.

"Hermione and Krum dated?" George said in surprise; clearly gob-smacked

"Oh - Yeah … Ginny told me all about it. Said she saw them - several times … 'going at it' full bore - back in the stacks of the Hogwarts library".

Standing outside the bedroom, my cheeks flushed red, "I'm going to have a little-chat with Ginny first thing tomorrow" Hermione snarled to herself

"So you think she …did the deed …with Krum?" George asked flat-out… instantly drawing Hermione's attention back into the bedroom.

"I don't really know, and obviously I can't ask …because she still spewing the… 'ruddy-lie' … that nothing 'ever happened' with old-Vicky and that he was back then - and still is; even now … only -a 'platonic' pen-pal. Being told by Ginny that Hermione had lied to me about Krum for years – 'cut me to the quick'. Just thinking that I was- pining away -for someone who had already 'put-out' for old Vicky… Well …you know. I ruddy lost it, okay?

"So at long last; the reason behind you taking-up with that slut Lavender…is revealed - eh? Fred and I often wondered why you gave up on Granger so abruptly. Didn't want to die a pathetic little virgin, eh" - George declared, sounding utterly amazed.

Outside in the hallway; Hermione stood equally stunned and beyond description.

"Here's a-bit of news you'll equally fancy, and I give you- 'full permission' -to take the Mickey on me for my manly failure. For brother of mine - - I'm still a virgin".

"No way… you didn't …even try".

"Lavender offered loads of times, and I just as often - - politely refused".

"Sweet mother of Merlin Ronnie… you're worse than Bill's forsaking all other birds due to his fanatical attraction to Fleur and she's a bloody Veela. Being a goner for a bird is bad enough … but how you feel about Granger is pure mental".

"Don't I know it; but there is no help for it". Ron replied in a resigned tone. "There is something about Hermione, you know? - I think she is beautiful… plain and simple, she outshines every other girl I've ever known. When she talks to me, I can tell she's actually interested in the- 'stupid crap' -that I usually come-up with… even when she's way more brilliant than I could ever hope to be… even when Harry Potter is right there; outshining everything I do".

"Believe it or not", Ron continued. "I know deep down; that most of my insecurities are based around how she does or doesn't feel about me. My brother's accomplishments no longer drag me down. They do their thing and I do mine. She is like a drug-addition to me, her slightest flown can ruin my day and worse of all - - I don't feel bad about losing out to Krum. He was nineteen and a famous Quidditch star - - while I was an immature clod; a fourteen year-old child …only half way into puberty."

Hermione out in the hall; had recovered by now from her initial shock, at least enough to feel herself blushing at Ron's words. He'd never told me that he found me attractive. I mean, yeah, I could tell at the Yule Ball and at Bill and Fluer's wedding that he liked how I looked, - but he's never said I was beautiful, not in my hearing.

"To answer your earlier question; Ronniekins", George said after a moment of quiet reflection. "I love Hermione to pieces. Everyone in the family does. Surely you must have seen that. - Mum was devastated two years ago when she wasn't here for Christmas. I know she hoped she could give Hermione a Weasley jumper, because she thought you'd be together as a couple by then. When she'd told you she had actually made her one, I thought you'd burst of embarrassment. You made her swear to not give it to her, but I'm pretty sure Mum's kept it –somewhere in the attic - and maybe she's even made others for your reluctant bird – lord knows - her figure hasn't changed since fourth year", George laughed at that with Ron weakly joining in.

"Outside the room in the dark hallway Hermione was overjoyed: I can't believe it. I actually have a Christmas jumper of my own? Every year I was so jealous of Harry, when he had one and I didn't".

"So, tell me again; why you don't think that what you have with Granger will ever become official? Haven't you two snogged like crazy this summer?"

"Well … appearances can be deceiving. The only times she kissed me before the final battle was on the cheek. The first real kiss I got – one the mouth - was back in the room of Requirements …with Harry right there, no less. But that wasn't out of any desire for me… as a man. It was due to something I said about the Hogwarts house-elves. Still…I thought I'd die of happiness, really. God… I was so sappy!" Ron said before abruptly going silent, suddenly sounding very shy.

"No, no continue, please. It's great to hear a happy story these days…"

"Well… First tell me what you already know", Ron said with obvious reluctance.

"Last thing I saw is you and her dancing all lovey-dovey at Bill's wedding. Seriously Ronnie - - that was the first time you weren't drooling all over Fleur!" Both brothers laughed.

"Don't remind me! God, what must they both have thought … right? - Fleur and Hermione, I mean… Fleur is a Veela; Okay …she has an effect on any bloke with a pulse …okay. I just wish that for once - - the sight of me with another woman would make Hermione feel even a tinny-whinny bit of jealousy, - - - but oh no. All she had eyes for was ruddy Krum at the wedding - - even while she was dancing with me. After her old flame; her attention was equally divided between the usual suspects. First in queue is Harry, naturally – and then our professor Lupin, she had the hots for him too… for a-bit".

"I don't remember seeing Lupin at the wedding" George said casually.

"Doesn't matter …and while we were at Hogwarts; during our sixth year there were loads of other blokes that got Hermione's attention ahead of me. – Ravenclaw's mostly, next comes her infamous - 'fatal attraction' -level fascination over Draco Malfoy the- 'bad boy' -womanizer of Slytherin… after that Git… comes her ruddy cat and finally – at the very bottom of the barrel – is me. She once said that no sane girl would have me – and I think she still believes it …body and soul. Dating Lavender didn't make her jealous – and to prove it, she just took up with Mclaggen..."

From where I stood, I could see him blush hard - for I was blushing a-bit myself. 'If he only knew just how jealous I had been, not just of Fleur, because she was a quarter-Veela - but mostly because of Lavender… I was furious about her… for my first five long years at Hogwarts, I always felt that Ron- somehow -belonged to me - even though I was actively pursuing Harry … it never accrued to me that anyone would dare to try to steal my- 'back up' … second-string, boyfriend … because everyone had to know he was my property.' Hermione thought in a pout to herself.

"Wo, wo, wo. Back-up a-tad! - Right form the off; Hermione- WAS -jealous of Fleur, it was written all over her face!" So much for George being subtle…

"She wasn't being jealous, you- git - she was big-time angry - because I was weak - - I fell for Veela magic when her precious Harry didn't."

"As you just mentioned him again, why on Earth would you be jealous of Harry? George countered genuinely curious."

"Are you kidding me - - why wouldn't I be jealous of Harry, the rich and famous Chosen-One, the bloke that single handed defeated Voldemort? The guy is a ruddy walking–talking, demi-GOD to most witches over the age of ten. When I die; my obituary will read – first line too – 'the late dorm-mate of the famous Harry Potter' and the same can be said for; Dean – Seamus – Neville and you too …most likely. He's god-damn perfect and there isn't a witch alive in Britain that can resist the Prat".

"Harry is not a womanizer".

"No - - and I'll bet Ginny is 'very grateful' for that little fact. - But even you must admit that right up to when our little sister started dating Harry during his sixth-year… the primary girl in his life was Hermione – mothering him - bossing him around – always at his elbow – always worried about his needs and feelings. She never gave me- one tenth -the attention she has showered on Harry. Even Skeeter thought they were a couple".

"I did too – to tell the truth – for the longest time – she seemed to - - - overlook you".

"See – even you saw it – overlooked – in Harry's shadow – and I knew it too – I'm not as thick as she thinks I am. I've overheard what people call me … behind my back … their clownish- sidekick. She took me for granted … everyone did. I was beneath her notice … and still am to a point. So tell me the truth big-brother - do you honestly think that I would have gotten the- 'time of day' -out of Hermione - if I hadn't been Potter's best mate?"

"Probably not", George replied candidly.

'No… no …no!', Hermione shouted in her mind. - - 'When would people understand this?, - I am not a people person and I lack even the basic social skills. My parents had me in therapy at age six because of my anti-social attitudes. I had zero friends in primary school. Most importantly, I would have been a hated loner at Hogwarts - - if it hadn't been for a Troll attack that first Halloween. But that troll only got my foot in the door. Because none of my peers ever understood one simple fact; that my continued membership in the- 'golden trio' -had more to do with Ron, than Harry'

Besides … Harry Potter – is not flawless… nor is he the demi-god hero that most witches think he is … far from it - in fact. Nobody's perfect. Harry is an emotionally damaged reluctant Hero, he doesn't make close friends easily, he can be self-absorbed and he goes through terrible mood-swings that push most people away. I will concede that I had a huge crush on him when I first found-out who he was, and that went on for years. But even when I was totally fixated on Harry – Ron always remained my foundation stone and yet no one knows it – especially him.

My poor neglected and overlooked Ron. He was the glue that actually held the trio together … a fact driven home for me, when he left us in the tent. Ron has a way with people that I never understood but always envied. Harry's fame was his trump-card and he put up with my non-stop criticism of everything - because of Ron. Everyone, even my parents, had a problem with my being such a royal b-witch… everyone but Ron.

From day one Ron was liked by almost anyone he met; he's' warm, friendly and outgoing …he was a wonderful Prefect with the first years …almost a father figure. And he was always there for me, and that's why I've come to … 'admire' him, so much - recently'". Hermione cringed when she heard herself say; 'admire' instead of love, but her inability to express or to say that one word – to anyone - had been a problem all her life. She mused about these things for only a moment before getting herself back under control and listening more carefully to what Ron was saying.

"Every girl at school fancied Harry, even some of the Slytherin's", Ron was heard to say. "Ginny knew he was- 'picture-perfect', before even meeting the bloke! But - I mean - I'm not really jealous of his popularity or fame anymore - or – at least…not as much as I used to be. I know how hard his life has been, the abuse he suffered as a child and I wouldn't trade his life for mine… even if Hermione ends up with him in the end instead of our Ginny. When we first met, though… when I was eleven - - I used to wish every single day that I was- 'the' -Harry Potter, famous boy-who-lived hero and eventual winner of Hogwarts Triwizard Champion, who seemed to have Hermione's undivided attention… right from day one."

"Ron… Not to be an idiot or anything, - but haven't you been Hermione's other closest- 'friend' -for all these years? If I may say so, you seemed to be a-bit more than just a friend - - from what I could see … that is!", George snickered. My heart fluttered when Ron didn't try and deny the fact.

"I know I'm one of her two closest friends, right behind Harry, but that's not saying all that much… really. How many genuine friends do you think she has? I never saw her with a bunch of other girls; it was always her, Harry and me. At Quidditch matches, meals or in the library, she always seemed to sit with us or- alone. Hermione's main problem … If anyone was daft enough to ask me; is that she suffers from a rather overbearingly abrasive personality".

"And you …of all people- 'knows' -what that means?" George snickered,

"Actually I asked professor McGonagall about Hermione while in hospital … why smart witches aren't more popular with blokes", Ron said with his usual candor.

"And she told you what exactly," George asked.

"Our head-of-house told me that – 'people like Hermione; always have an extra hard time making friends of either gender. – Ms. Granger in particular, tends to be smug and rubs her superior intelligence in people's faces and that naturally causes resentment on the part of the listener'. In McGonagall's option Hermione and Harry should both be overjoyed to have a diplomat counted among their closest friends … whatever that meant".

"She meant you Ronniekins" George said drolly.

"Get-off of it, I didn't do anything" Ron replied.

"Keep telling yourself that, Ron - but don't expect me to buy into it".

"Whatever … the point is I know what an abrasive personality is like. Lord knows she has looked down her nose at me for almost a decade. Ask Ginny sometime, about the extra-effort she has to make just to stay on friendly terms with Hermione". Ginny has even told me and- 'more than once' -that from what Hermione has told her … repeatedly; that I'm nowhere near the same level of friend to her that Harry is – and I believe it totally", Ron admitted sadly. "Like I said…my Bogart fear is probably the same as Ginny's right now – I've often wonder if she has suffered as many sleepless nights as I have - over Harry and Hermione getting together".

'But that will never happen, Harry is hopelessly in love with Ginny and I …' Hermione began to say to her-self, but found it impossible to finish the sentence.

"One time;" Ron continued in a resigned tone, "when we were on the Hunt; Harry and I got into a rather heated 'discussion' over Hermione - - outside of her hearing…of course - - during which Harry tried to explain the facts of life to me… about birds that became obsessed with him and how their behavior wasn't his fault. I wasn't in the mood to listen to reason… naturally."

"A discussion?" - George snorted knowing all too well about Ron's temper.

"I…well…I… let's just say …that I was a colossal Git and that Harry and I had a major quarrel over - - nothing… really. Hermione only caught the very end of it - and still doesn't acknowledge on any level the root causes of that defining moment; which led up to my abrupt departure … this particular 'heated dialogue'; wasn't about Horcruxes at all …it was about her".

"WHAT?" Hermione asked her-self …feeling utterly gob-smacked once again.

"I was insanely jealous of how close she and Harry were becoming – it was a thousand times worse than what you saw at Hogwarts. I felt left out …far more than usual. They were as thick as thieves – planning stuff and I felt a third wheel on their pony-cart".

"Overlooked again eh?"

"George - I was losing her to him and it was happening right in front of me. – Several times I wanted to tell them to: 'get a room' – but I bit back my tongue. I felt angry and helpless – knowing in my deepest soul – I couldn't ever compete with him for her."

"Who could with the Chosen-One?" Ron's brother replied rather reasonably.

"Spot-on George," Ron admitted sadly – his tone thick with regret. "Because, I mean, let's face reality here. No normal bloke stands a chance against- 'the boy who lived' -when it comes to girls. Voted the most desirable bachelor; five years running, according to- Witches Weekly. The way I saw it – during our little camping trip - - they were becoming romantically involved right in front of me and there wasn't squat I could do … to stop it".

"George; I'm not proud of walking out on them for months. You know how I love Harry as a brother - - like he was one of us Weasley's. It's just… I felt I had lost her to him, match-over… and when she said she stood- with him -instead of me… suddenly I knew I was in the way – like three people on a honeymoon - - I wasn't needed … I wasn't wanted - - and well - - what Hermione thinks of me as a person - is a very touchy subject with me".

"Really? I never noticed", George said in an incredibly sarcastic voice.

Outside in the hall Hermione was all-but literally melting. - "I never knew what really happened between Harry and Ron, or why he left so abruptly in the first place. It couldn't be me choosing Harry over him … it just couldn't be. That incident was a ridiculous misunderstanding and blown way out of all proportion. If only I'd accepted on any level… back then, how much Ron cared for me … I could have said something to reassure him and then he wouldn't have left, I'm sure of it" – she said to her-self

Inside the room George was laughing hysterically. "Heaven forbid I ever fall in love as- hard -as you have - Ronnie."

"Yeah, yeah, all right…you've had one laugh at my expense already; calm-down right now, before you wake the entire house. Besides - Ginny 'has it' just as bad as I do – and is just as scared as I am - that any day now – maybe as soon as tomorrow morning - - the great hero and heroine of the late war - will realize that they can both do loads better than us Weasley's and dump us cold and hard – before riding off into the sunset together".

"This really scares you – doesn't it?" George said frankly amazed.

"I have nightmares about it - - so Hell yes, the thought scares me to death", Ron bemoaned. "You've never been in love with a genuine celebrity – have you? - Well I have and it sucks. Because that's what Harry and Hermione are – National celebrities".

"I never thought of it that way – but I guess - you're spot-on, about that too. It's like dating a- drop dead gorgeous -bird, no bloke can ever feel secure in that kind of relationship, always on pins and needles that someone would take her from you," George admitted thoughtfully.

"And that bloke is Harry," Ron said sadly. "So, anyways, once I realized that I should be supportive of the love she had so obviously found with him, I swallowed my feeling of rejection and went back with my tail between my legs to beg forgiveness. The mission was far more important than a sidekick's broken heart. Took me months to find them and more than one encounter with the- Snatchers - -"

"You ran into them?" – George asked … horrified at the thought.

"Oh Yeah, and I got away almost every time – not always without a fight and I earned a few- 'spell hit' -injuries along the way … you understand. Once however, they got me good … dragged me to Azkaban … beat me all to hell … left me dying in a hallway. - - In fact, I would be dead right now; if Percy hadn't come along and bailed me out. The Scarlett Pimpernel literally saved my arse. However - no one knows about that-bit; understand, George? Harry and Hermione think I spent those months on my fat-arse on holiday at- Shell Cottage -stuffing my face with sweets - - and I DON'T want them to think any different now – okay?"

"Okay, okay …calm-yourself" George said in light of Ron's flare of temper

"Old Perce saved my bacon alright and I'm grateful … you know! - Percy, Bill and now you; are the only three who know all I've done for her". Ron admitted. "I just keep wishing that Harry, 'hadn't seen' what that ruddy locket revealed in a vision about my hidden feelings for his- 'backup' -girlfriend". - - But he did see and hear that stupid locket ramble on - and because of it Harry frantically tried to sell me this 'cock-n-bull' story that he only thought of Hermione as a- sister… and maybe he did, at one point – back during second-year".

"Perhaps Hermione's love for Harry is just as unrequited as mine has been for her. He use to tell me many-times over the years, that he had zero interest in Hermione as a girlfriend… but knowing her I didn't believe it. His type of bird during fourth year was apparently brunettes and now it's my sister … who is a red-head like me. I'm not sure any more about anything … really", Ron said in a resigned tone that was so sad it twisted an emotional knife into Hermione's heart.

"Well, truth be-told, our Gin-gin does have a far better figure than your bookworm and if our sister takes after mum - - bosom wise… in a few years she'll be… ", George indelicately pointed out.

"… Honestly, George" - Ron interrupted abruptly; sounding just as uncomfortable with the current subject matter (boobies) as Hermione was standing outside in the hallway. "I can't talk about Ginny's … chest; it's to disturbingly-perverted. Besides; I think that you and Harry need to have your eyes checked again. Hermione's figure isn't much to write home about … I'll grant you that - - but she's also the farthest thing from a sister as a drop-dead gorgeous bird can get."

When George chuckled again at that ridiculous idea, Hermione found herself blushing.

"Even though I really-really doubted Harry's sincerity at the time … part of me also felt deeply relieved, to hear such an obvious - lie …you-know. I realize now, I was in denial back then; but I felt a glimmer of hope that someone like me - - just-might have a snowball's chance in hell – to be with her. That he might not fancy her … kept me around to the end. Harry knows that he lied to me that day - and deep down I know it too".

"He can't really believe that – can he?" Hermione asked herself more than slightly stunned.

"When … Harry- 'went on and on' -about the fact that he never fancied her; I couldn't help but wonder - who he was trying to convince – me or himself? Anyway; it was then, that he told me the biggest whooper of all; - that 'allegedly' _ after I left - - after she had choose to be with Harry instead of me. Hermione 'supposedly' cried a lot and couldn't seem to function normally, without me being there. Which I instinctively knew was a gigantic pile of rubbish - - of course. Hermione Jean is as strong as steel and doesn't need a bloke - any bloke – especially someone pathetic like me - to prop her up."

"HARRY POTTER, I'm going to KILL YOU. - - Seriously, - - you have no right to tell Ron any of that! - You've always been garbage at explaining things that are really important. - You use to let Ron handle the people issues and I do the technical stuff'.

'Trying to explain what we- 'almost' -had … to him … really mucked things up and I'm going to have 'a devil of a time' sorting this all out", Hermione said sternly to herself. By now she was in such an agitated state, she was just about to storm into the room to have a word or two with both of them … Ron in particular; - - when she suddenly remembered that it was a conversation she wasn't supposed to hear. Slowly regaining control of herself; she stepped closer to the door to hear what they were now laughing at.

"…Ron… I know you've always had a low level of self-esteem, - but it's got to-stop …right-now!" George said between chuckles! "No bird should make you doubt yourself this badly. Look at how you've kept this family going, done all the cooking - kept me from doing my-self in - pulling in reluctant friends to see me. - - And if Granger doesn't acknowledge how good a catch you are. Then dear brother of mine … there are loads of birds that visit the shop every-day that will".

'WHAT?' - Hermione screamed in her mind.

"Stop following Potter around like a puppy - for one thing; – being an Auror was Harry's dream … not yours. - - Forget about professional Quidditch, for another. Careers in that sport are notoriously short. Take your own path damnit. Because little-brother; the war is over and Potter and Granger don't need you anymore - but I still do. Come work for me full time and I'll even sweeten the deal … tomorrow I'm making you a full partner in the joke shop. All profits spilt 'fifty-fifty."

"I can't let you…" Ron began only to be interrupted.

"Rubbish … Fred would want me to. You have saved me and my twin would be the first in queue to see I did right by you. Besides; If Hermione wants a cat-fight with Gin-gin over whom gets- begetting rights -with Harry … let her. We add a bit of mud and charge people to watch them fight, although my gold is still on Ginny …best two out of three…eh?"

"George you don't understand, Hermione is the girl for me, the one and only love of my life – I win her over …or I leave the country - - go into exile and join the magical version of the- 'French foreign legion' -."

George replied with a chuckle before saying: "So to sum–up: I take it that your current torment is based in the fact that- all -she has allowed you to do … for the last six weeks - is the occasional and very limited snog? No wandering hands allowed – and zero groping of her bum" - His brother said as his tone began to sound more-and-more serious.

"Yes whenever my hands start to - - - she always stops me cold …right from the off, - which of course worries me to no end. But your spot-on yet again – it's got to be a very bad sign – if I can't even grab her bum without being- 'read' -the riot act".

"Six weeks with zero romantic progress, makes you wonder if she is serious about you …long term – which in turn brings on … the Harry-Hermione together nightmares," George replied so harshly that poor Ron began to physically shrink into himself – and seeing this; George put both hands up in mock surrender. "Look Ronnie, I'm sorry for being this blunt; but it's been six weeks and if she doesn't lose control in your arms now, maybe she never will. To me; her behavior as you describe it - indicates that she still- 'fancies' -Harry loads-more than you. You don't want her regretting being with you two kids from now – do you?"

"Of course not", Ron replied.

"…And marriage counseling can only take you so far. - If you are second best in her mind – right now … then therapy isn't going to change that opinion and I tell you this - when a bird suffers from the infamous; 'snow-white' mindset –it always ends in divorce", George said without humor. - "As she kisses you - she is actually looking over your shoulder hoping that her real prince (Harry) will come along and take her to- 'happily ever after land'.

"So … Let's just suppose that she has been playing-you all along … with restricted snogs - just to stay 'close-by' in case the Ginny thing doesn't work out for Harry. If Granger can't see that Harry's no longer available and how you've changed loads in the last year; little brother – then I still say, she isn't worth having".

"Oh NO", - Hermione mumbled in a soft whisper

"Your taller than me and now have muscles you didn't have at Bill's wedding," George continued reasonably. "I have no doubts that you could kick my arse in a heartbeat if you wanted too. I've also seen the apparition-splinched scar on your shoulder this summer - - which fits in quiet nicely … with the chest scares you got fifth year from that giant-brain thingy. I also know for a fact; that some of your additional - scarring's - are from… spell-hit's … that were actually meant for her during; Lord only knows how many Battles …and don't bother denying it; I saw you do it! And that's not counting the- hits -you took; during your- Snatcher –adventures, that she doesn't know squat about".

"The hard truth is"; George concluded. "You've done things for her that only a Weasley in life-long love does, and still …she pushes your hands away. Just tell me - what's it going to take, beyond what you've already done to get Hermione's knickers - wet? We're Weasley's for Merlin's sake … known worldwide for our charm, good looks and irresistible sex appeal!"

Hermione standing just outside, avoided the knickers question; while nodding her head in silent agreement for she certainly couldn't deny that Ron had grown 'AGAIN' in the months that he was away, and he was now stood 6'3 and towered over her. He had also muscled up just as George had said. One time, she'd caught him coming out of the shower and she couldn't tear her eyes away – because … sweet baby-Maeva …. Ron Weasley looked deliciously-sexy even with his numerous scars. It was an irrefutable fact, that even an intellectual witch like her; could notice those kinds of things",

But suddenly her attention was drawn back into the bedroom for Ron was speaking again. "Yeah….well, okay - - let's say you're right and Hermione doesn't really want me … on that point alone, even Percy agrees with you. He told me recently that during her visits to the Ministry all Hermione talks about is her parents and Harry - - with my name never even mentioned. Percy hopes that someday soon … I will shake off what he calls my- 'Granger fixation' – long enough to find someone (other than the Lavender Brown type) to settle down with… a semi-sane girl, who will consider me to be even a tiny-bit desirable … just for self-esteem reasons, if nothing else".

"I agree with Percy, its time you broke your Granger obsession", George said bluntly.

'NO - - NO - - NO … this isn't happening; not now … especially not now', Hermione thought frantically to her-self.

"Easier said than done – old sod", Ron said a reply that brought Hermione back for the brink of panic. "However; as I seem to be ruddy clueless about female feelings - - and without any outward signs of attraction … how could I tell that any other witch in England will ever fancy me more than prince charming (Potter)?"

"I still find it hard to believe that you've gotten zero encouragement from Hermione during seven weeks of being together? What about all the snogging I've seen recently?" George asked.

"Haven't you notice that these - tightly controlled snogs … the ones that everyone have seen - have all been during the day were Harry could see them too! When we are alone, I don't get squat from her and then add in the zero wandering hands –bit … add it up George and what do you get", Ron replied sadly. "For six weeks the current - Status Quo – hasn't changed one inch. She's deliberately keeping me at arm's length - - down at my own goal-post, with no encouragement to make a try to go down the pitch and score".

"You never dated all that much Ronniekins - so how can you possibly know what's normal for a relationship", George asked.

"With Lavender Brown; I always knew what she was thinking; especially when she felt randy"; Ron explained, "I could see it plain as day from a kilometer away. I caught her staring at me one time… you know? And she gave me a look - like she wanted to eat me alive. So I know what a turned-on bird looks like… okay? - - But in seven plus weeks of being Hermione's official boyfriend - not once did I ever get a; 'eat you alive' - look… from her."

"Not once … I don't believe it", George said.

"I caught her checking out Lockhart a few times and she fancied Lupin for a-bit and finally dear old Krum, she looked at that Bulgarian when he first showed-up with genuine 'hunger' in her eyes … and of course she always has a special look for Harry. But I was for the most part – seven plus years' worth … overlooked", Ron admitted sadly.

'Oh; I checked you out more than a few times since Malfoy Manor; Ronald Bilius, I didn't do it before then, because I was chasing Harry. But everything changed at Malfoy Manor and I was just smart enough to not let you catch me mentally undressing you' Hermione said to herself. 'Hold-on… come to think on it; maybe I shouldn't have been so careful… had Ron caught me looking at him a few times with- hunger in my eyes – during the last few weeks - - perhaps he wouldn't be so convinced now - that I am still hopelessly in love with Harry?'

"If that's the way it really is with her", George said sternly. "Then it's time to cut your losses and move on to- exile -or better yet …greener pastures with a far more cooperative witch".

'Stop telling him to give up on me'; Hermione snarled in her head, feeling anger rapidly growing toward George. "I concede to making- a few –romantic mistakes since hooking up with Ron after the battle, I should have been more proactive… but we have only been a couple for a matter of weeks, and I had a lot to sort-out. - Things I had to put behind me. I know what Ron wants to do to me … and I'm working up to that – once I have all my missteps mended, things will be wonderful - - given enough time'

"I'm not to the point of throwing in the towel… exactly", Ron protested sharply and Hermione felt instantly relieved. "I'm just bloodly-confused right now …okay… tightly control snogs is better than getting nothing", Ron snarled. "She's been pushing me away for six years and I should be used to it by now … but with as time drags on and with the- 'Status Quo' - unchanged - I've been growing more and more discouraged. In September she goes back to school and I need your input tonight on what to do about it".

"Have you considered…" George began

"…Confrontation won't work", Ron interrupted. "I've tried that and she simply refuses to talk about any of her feelings about anything … including what she did to her parents. – She most likely tells Harry all that stuff – but not me. I have always sucked at reading girls emotionally and every day that goes by - Hermione becomes more-and-more 'unreadable'. Let me give you a recent example to prove my point".

"I forgot to lock the bathroom door just the other day – and Hermione walked in on me – just as I was stepping out of the shower. I was as naked as the day I was born – and she saw it me in all my glory. She froze for a solid minute –looked me over up and down - - before blushing so hard; I thought she was going to explode! But then without a word – she was just …gone. Never mentioned what happened and even now I'm not sure - was what she saw of me arousing – or just simply – something that was; terribly embarrassing?"

George exploded with laughter for a-bit, before saying: "That's all well and good, and I do understand your confusion. But so far you're avoided telling me the good bits - - concerning the bases for your suspicions of a Potter-Granger love-affair! Before you left; you had to have noticed certain 'intimacies' they shared while on the run – to indicate a sexual attraction that was about to explode right in front of your eyes? Did you catch her touching Harry in ways she has never touched you? Was there any starkers bathing in a river or lake - with just Harry? When you came upon them unexpectedly did they step apart abruptly, while looking all guilty? - Did she go on walks with him and come back looking all disheveled? - - Buttons done-up in the wrong order, face flushed. I want the gory-details, not this boring soul-mates crap! - - I want smut …so spill."

'George Arthur Weasley … you're a pervert,' Hermione mumbled under her breath

"Yeah – well; Like I said, I am generally clueless about romantic stuff; but you already know that", Ron explained feeling ashamed. "I didn't exactly see them snog, but yes… I saw her sit extra close to him in the tent and observed several instances of the way she tenderly looked at him… I even saw her touched him in ways that… disturbed me …rather deeply".

"Where did she touch him … the crotch?", George asked excited.

"Oh Hell NO - but you have to take what I saying here with a grain of salt", Ron continued. "I could have been poisoned by the jealousy I felt - - to the point that an innocent touch transformed into a sexual caress. I can however; give you one piece of- solid evidence -that some kind of sexual tryst accrued in that tent - - for they were: 'sharing a bed' when I got back", - Hermione gasped as she heard Ron sadly admit that, - "Harry warned me about it before we got back to where the tent was set-up – he said it was for 'warmth reasons only' – sharing body-heat …you know. Not enough blankets – canvas tent – fire in stove would burn out half way through the night - - and all that- rot".

"And you didn't believe that huge pile of rubbish – did you?" George asked.

"I didn't come back to cause problems, so I bit my tongue – again - and didn't say a word. But Harry's excuse sounded awfully lame …when later that night …in mid-February no less…we were all back in separate beds …yet again. It was still cold at night, the fire in the stove still burned out at two in the morning. I had brought several months of food supplies with me – and other necessities like toilet paper and dish soap… my supplies even included extra wool blankets – but still".

"She didn't say anything".

"To me – are you daft?" Ron replied hotly. "She didn't speak to me directly for weeks after I got back, hardly five words before the Gringotts break-in. All she wanted to say to me - - were shouted directly into my face, during a violent tirade that exploded from her mouth; the moment she first saw me back. And all I could was stand-still and take the beating I so richly deserved… while hearing her – repeating loudly and - almost verbatim - what the locket vision had told me about not wanting me back".

"The locket vision you spoke about?" George asked.

"Yes-no …never mind. Like I'd say anything to you – and don't ask Harry about it. He promised not to tell her or anyone else - - – oh forget it – she doesn't know about it – so just drop it. You may be sad with grief, but you're still you."

"Ron. I already told you. I- won't -take the 'mickey out on you' for anything you tell me in confidence, I promise. You have gone through too much hell being the- 'right hand' -of Potter and whatever happens with Hermione, 'win or lose'; you still deserve to find a-bit of romantic happiness."

"Hermione and me," corrected Ron automatically. "That doesn't seem all that likely now… does it? Besides; with the way she has kept her distance these last few weeks – let me guess, you already believe that she been slowly- 'putting distance' -between us; just to soften the blow of the break-up letter that you're convinced will come my way in late September".

"From what you've told me so far, that is the most likely outcome", George admitted sadly.

'No; Ron - - don't believe it. I really don't love Harry anymore - and he never fancied me one-tenth as much as I now - - care for you' Hermione mumbled desperately to herself.

"Yes … I know" Ron admitted sadly. "Harry always seems to win in the end. Even if Hermione's love for him has remained unconsummated up to now, she will pine away for her lost-love for the rest of her life. I'd rather not suffer for years and end up divorced because she couldn't get Harry. What I said earlier about the soul-mate title… at least when it comes to her, will always be Harry".

"Ya-See… you didn't need me to tell you how to work-out things with Hermione… she's going to most likely dump you within two months after returning to school, and you should make plans accordingly", George said.

'I'm not going to dump Ron … damnit', Hermione screamed in her head.

"Face-it little brother; from what you've told me - Granger has always belonged to Potter... since first year; I'd imagine. You've been in a broom-race with the- Chosen One, for seven years and it's time to admit you lost. I'm glad we had this chat and all you needed was the chance to 'think-it-all-over'… out-loud ...and let the reality of her 'end-game scenario' sink in",'

'George Arthur Weasley, you are so wrong about me and who I … care deeply for now … it is almost funny', Hermione snarled at the bedroom door.

"Besides; Ronnie, - Soul-mates, give me a break?" - George chuckled. "Since when do you use Toff terminology? Its pure bullocks for average blokes like us to talk that way", I could almost hear George smile from outside in the hall. "So… throw me a bone here, little brother… after six years of pining-away for your romantically unattainable - did anything between you two, ever actually happen?"

"… I don't know what to tell you, George. - - As pathetic as its sounds …nothing happened between us at Hogwarts – or - here at the- Burrow; just like nothing happened while we were on the run during the war. After I rejoined them on the hunt, right-up to the Hogwarts battle; she treated me with distain - - and no, - stop looking at me like that, George, - - seriously; no one was more surprised than I was - when she abruptly kissed me on the mouth at Hogwarts. I still can't fully comprehend why she carried on with me as my girlfriend, after that last battle. So the bottom line is… that up-to and including today … I have never even seen her naked!"

"And you never even tried? - What about the- 'Prefect bath'?", Insisted George.

"Of course- I tried –Ron complained. "I am a normal male after all … but she was always too careful for me to sneak a peek and whenever she wanted to bathe; in say… a river …while it was warm enough to do so … she always had Harry stand-guard over her", Ron admitted sadly

"Oh. So Harry has seen her starkers. Wasn't there a tub in that tent?"

"Yes; but she never used it when I was around?" Ron replied.

"That's not good… I suppose she planned it that way, so that only Harry would see her in the buff… as a subtle ploy of seduction, with the payoff I suppose - happening after you left. I have to give her full-marks … that is a rather clever gambit to employ, to steal Harry from our Giniekins", George said in open admiration, while outside Hermione cringed at being called a seductress.

"I really don't want to think about what methods she used to seduce Harry… okay?" Ron bemoaned. "But whatever happened between them didn't last for long … as he's back with Ginny now".

"Another temporary setback; eh?", George suggested.

'No … No … No, it's not what you think. What I felt for Harry was - - complicated, but it's not grounded in any sexual-attraction'. Hermione protested in an angry whisper at the door.

"Now that I think on it - - do you believe that maybe - - that very public kiss in the room of requirement was actually a final attempt to make Harry jealous?" George asked as if he was the- devil's advocate. "At the time; Fred and I thought that you had already scored with the bookworm, but we were wrong apparently - - and the proof is in the pudding, brother mine - if half way through the summer (after the war); you still haven't gotten- anywhere near -second base".

"You see it too, don't you?"

"You're right Ronnie; your relationship with Granger is beyond confusing. But we both know how this is going to end … either in a- 'Dear John' -letter in September or ten years from now in a divorce court. If it was me - I'd end it sooner rather than later. - - I'd be loads more encouraging about your prospects if she …had… 'even-once' … become unglued in your arms … since we all got back to the- Burrow." George said stuttering his observation.

'I think this was the first time I ever heard George verbally struggling – in trying to find the right thing to say about his little-brothers failing relationship', Hermione said to herself. - - 'Part of me should feel angry at them both for talking about me like this – for not realizing that my obsession with Harry is over, but in the very back of my head, I have to accept; that Ron's current misgivings are based largely in my inability to express romantic feelings. Well; forewarned is forearmed – overhearing this chat has put me into a position to correct my missteps.

What this overheard chat has taught me - is that Ron is (more or less) convinced that I've had sex (more than once) with multiple partners … Viktor initially … of course; but primarily with Harry during our months alone in the tent… these 'revelations' have left me seriously upset and confused, and I need time to carefully think about a proper response to all of this … for I have no intentions of losing Ron over this'.

Of course I have thought about having sex, what girl my age hasn't. Not casual sex, of course. I mean, I'm not that type of girl. I need to be deeply in love, for god's sake. Obviously I have dreamed of having sex with the right man, at the right time… but men in general are a mystery to me, - - they don't as a rule hold back when they get the offer to… 'Bunk-up' …with a slut like, Lavender. Clearly however; that didn't happen with Ron during the infamous Brown-Weasley affair and I desperately wanted to know why-not.

"Wow, mate. I've never heard you stressed-out this much - just to pull my chain", said Ron; echoing my thoughts. "So I'll repeat myself for reasons of clarity: I'm reasonably sure that Harry has seen Hermione Jean Granger naked… several times and perhaps Krum has too… whereas I have not… even seeing her wearing a swim costume here at the- Burrow -hasn't happened".

"Maybe it's because she is fair-skinned or super modest – but that excuse didn't slow down Harry and Ginny who have used the local pond to swim or sun-bathe at - on every sunny day so far this summer. But even on the best of days Hermione hasn't indulged. - - I personally believe she doesn't want to offer me any encouragement by wearing swimwear, because I'm not her type - and Harry is, which is why seeing her naked is not a privilege I've enjoyed … sad to say," Another candid confession that made Hermione smile shyly.

"I don't know if I'm allowed to ask this, but… Why not,?" George asked. "I mean, if Granger is human and has eyes to see - - she can't possible fail to notice that you are- 'prime beefcake on the hoof' …a term used to describe you by none other than Angelina Johnson who was kind enough to visit me just the other day. And she not the only one to comment on you, a number of her friends agrees on the beefcake description … to the point that they say - it literally hurts their eyes to watch."

"Yeah-right, I'm a ruddy STUD. - - I'm being totally honest with you here and you're making a ruddy-joke," Ron snorted in disappointment.

"I'm not … really - and you can as Angelina about it next time she comes over", George countered. "Birds think you're hot (brother mine) which leaves the question of what is the problem with our Hermione? - - She's given no signs of being a lesbian over the years; although I've heard some rumors accusing her of being a ruddy asexual. So my original wager remains, I'd bet a hundred galleons - that it's only Harry; that can make her knickers- 'go into' -spontaneous combustion. She dated Mclaggen and he's one of those blokes that have reputations of shagging on the first date… And yet I heard from reliable sources that he fumbled the- Quaffle –well short of scoring with your… bird. Surely you're not- naive -enough to think that your nineteen year-old bookworm - is still a virgin?"

"I don't know for a fact either way. Besides if anyone has had sex with her, considering how she feels about him, we both know Harry's the one most likely to have done the deed. For the record; we haven't talked about having sex, not even once - - which is yet another- 'glaring hint'- for me; I suppose. Besides; how does a virgin like me bring the subject up? - - Oi; Hermione, did you enjoy your first couple of times with Harry?" Ron asked deadpan. "Our whole relationship 'thingy' is only several weeks old and well - I don't-want to scare her off… by asking about previous lovers"

"You've obviously been thinking about doing her!" George said in a laugh.

"Are you kidding me? - I think I've started to think about that on a daily basis when I turned 14."

"No, that's not what I meant", George countered. "That's the normal 14-year-old boy reaction to hormones talking over. I mean to say when did you start thinking about - exclusively - shagging Hermione?"

"Yeah, I was talking about that as well! God, imagine if she heard what we are talking about right now. She'd be horrified!"

Hermione was certainly not horrified to hear this. Ecstatic is more like it. Ronald Weasley wanted her sexually. Plain Jane - - boyish figured Granger… just like she 'might' want him. We wanted each other equally! (You've got the point…)

"No way", said George. "You cannot pine after the same witch all your life, Ron. It's impossible. Now if she was a Veela… "

"… I'm telling you it is very possible! - I swear on my magic that I've never thought about someone else in that particular way… except Hermione. Not even Lavender, and that's saying something. Whenever we found ourselves alone; Lavender would pop her top… more times than I could count, while not wearing a bra I might add. First pair of teats I'd ever saw up-close and in the flesh… didn't bother with wearing knickers either. She told me flat out, what her plan was; that she wanted my bum in her oven before graduation and practically tried to rape me… several times …just to get into the pudding club, - - no joke. I still don't understand her desperation!"

"Don't be dense, Ronnie; even I know you'd never turn your back on a child you made. Lavender falls pregnant and she owns your arse for life. So… after hearing all that - I must say I'm impressed. You resisted the bitch in heat and never shagged Lavender? - - That's a good thing- 'in a way' -because Mum doesn't care all that-much for any of the Brown family; especially the females; a pack of Scarlett women, Mum calls them. - The oldest of that brood tried the same trap on Charlie… which is why he lives on a dragon preserve now. Only a miscarriage saved Charlie from Mum's wrath over a marriage to a Brown".

George said all this very thoughtfully… just before he abruptly slapped his younger brother hard on the back of his head. "What am I saying? - What the hell is wrong with you, Ronnie? The Brown girls are addicted to sex, had you taken the proper precautions you could have gotten royally laid every single night for half a year. Where's your masculinity hiding … you- Git?" said George in the midst of nearly uncontrollable laughter.

"Always the note of surprise; when I do the right thing," Ron lamented sadly. "Shagging Lavender Brown wasn't the reason I took up with her… you- Prat? We were in a war and could die any second and I wanted a girl- any girl -to fancy me enough to want to snog me… not Mr. Perfect Potter …ME! Meanwhile - the girl I fancied beyond all others - was banging Krum every-other day and lying to me about it too".

"I never shagged Krum, damnit and I didn't really date him either," Hermione said to her-self becoming very angry at George advocacy of Ron breaking-up with her and moving on to a more- 'cooperative' -bird. "I was only fifteen for God's sake. Why does everyone think I've been a total slut, first for Viktor and then Harry?"

"George …for God's sake … just consider what you're saying - - shag Lavender for a lark … are you totally mental?" Ron retorted hotly. "Do you- KNOW -just how many guys were in that saddle ahead of me? At least a half-dozen… that I know of. She had big teats I get that, and she was a horny little minx … two points again in her favor; alright? - - But just one week before we started going-out; I walked in on her and Seamus shagging like a pair of rabbits on-top of McGonagall's classroom desk – (and before you ask) - it was after curfew and I was doing my Prefect rounds. The sight was just disgusting. You can't feel respect for a girl you bang on the desk of your Head of House. Not when it was just as easy for Seamus to have taken Lavender to the room of requirement and conjure-up the proper setting for lovemaking … safe from interruption by Prefects; like me".

"Then you have given some thought to having sex at Hogwarts".

"Did I deliberately- avoid -taking Lavender to the room of requirement so to eliminate any change of intercourse …yes; I did… if that's what you're getting at? And I'd like to think that my masculinity is quite all right – thank-you very much!" Ron exclaimed in a heated tone. "It's not because I'm too much of a gentleman to not try to get into Hermione's knickers. Believe it or not, since we started kissing - - I have tried. But birds can hide arousal – whereas we blokes can't. Even with the 'chase' snogs I've been allowed - I couldn't possibly hide the physical evidence that any normal bloke displays concerning how she makes me feel… sexually".

"That Hermione has not acknowledge on any level while making-out with me… the- point -that I was presenting on my desire for her or how- hard -I've tried to move us, as a couple - to a more intimate experience, my utter failure to get her attention has made me seriously wonder if she has any desire for the- package -I've been offering."

George was laughing so hard at this point - he could barely speak. Clearly Ron had said something witty that I clearly didn't understand. What did he mean? He'd never told me verbally how I made him feel… OH! Oh Sweet Merlin! Hermione said to herself blushing deeper than ever; …Hard, - package, - the point. Oh God. That's what it was! - - How could I not have realized? - My thoughts drifted to various memories of heated snogs where a certain something was brushing against my thigh or tummy. I didn't think much of it at the time, but if my memories serve me correctly, Ron is right. His masculinity is quite intact…and then some'.

"Maybe that's- why -she didn't- put out -for Krum either; I've heard rumors about the negative effects of- 'sports enhancing potions' -causing penis shrinkage and erectile dysfunction… perhaps she didn't realize what something- 'that small' -was… when he pressed it against her - - with you, my poor pathetic Ronniekins… also too small to make any kind of impression?" Oh, my- god! …you're too small for a bird to notice" George said laughing so hard he found it hard to breathe.

"Gee-whiz George thanks loads."

"Let's consider this rationally, little brother … either she is just as much of an innocent as you are; which I still insist is extremely doubtful", George posed this question with an extra-loud …belly-laugh; "Oh my poor-poor, innocent ickle-Hermione … can you imagine … still untouched at almost twenty! - - Or worst yet - she knows all too well; what an erection is and just doesn't want anything to do with your - pathetically - undersized tool." George added, twisting in the emotional-knife …with was the worst kind of gender insult; directed into his brother's guts

"Hey. Leave my Ron alone, George Weasley!" Hermione shouted in her mind feeling very foolish

"Shut-it: George!" Ron said becoming angry and protective. "That's quite enough from you – pick on me all you want – say I have the tiniest tool in magical England …but leave her alone. Her happiness is kind of an important thing for me …you know?"

"No Really", George replied in a mocking tone.

"… And when it comes to Hermione, have you considered this possibility?' Ron countered a moment later … again, in a heated tone. "That like me; it's- all or nothing -with her too. If Harry is the- 'love of her life' -and she tried to get him and failed - - perhaps she'll give up on love entirely and will focus from now on; exclusively on her career – with her snogging of me; just a pleasant way to practice her smooching skills … before the main event with the Ravenclaw Gits, when school resumes".

"Oh my yes … I agree with you – if Harry is all she thinks about; then of course she would flat-out ignore your tiny 'family jewels'; Ronnie. Because, the only- 'package' -she will ever acknowledge, belongs to Harry. Yeah …the more I think on-it the more I am certain that's the only logical explanation. - - So you think that during their alone time …in the tent…" George began.

"… Not that I'm old fashion, or a prude", Ron abruptly interrupted. "But sex is a great way to warm-up a cold bed. A bloke only gets one chance for the first time with a bird, and who she gives that special gift too …is ruddy important – especially for a witch. If it was Viktor at fourteen– or - Harry in the tent … whoever had that privilege at some point – I just hope – he made it special for her? - Hermione deserves a great first time, with as much pleasure as her partner can give. Whoever that lucky bastard turned out to be," Ron replied almost reverently.

"You're speaking past tense there, Ronnie?

"Like you said George… she shared a ruddy tent – and a bed with the Chosen One for four months – so it's far more than just a remote possibility.

"And what about you, do you love her enough to accept being- forever –the… less attractive alternate … her second choice in a life mate? Can you live with a woman who settles for you because she can't get the bloke she really wants?" asked George in a near whisper. Hermione got closer to the door, because if there was one thing she really wished to know, this was it.

"Yes" - - said Ron; his tone of voice clear of any doubt. - - "And don't get all smug about my stupidity - either. I won't be the only bloke that will suffer the fate of being 'second-rate' in a comparison to the great Harry, not the only Git that will suffer as a husband because his wife couldn't capture the heart of Prince Charming (Potter)! There is only one Hero and a whole generation of wizards will suffer in comparison… you will too; most likely".

"That's undeniable truth number one… I suppose", George said thoughtfully.

"But your suggestion that I'll most likely end-up a divorced father of two nippers - - has given me pause and maybe I should rethink all this - - I believe I can survive her non-stop criticism … but not if it ends up hurting innocent children. Thanks George; you've given me a fresh reason for brand-new nightmares, as up to now; my biggest worry … was how deeply she feels about Harry in comparison to me for that has always been the elephant in the room… But after tonight now I have to additional fear over how my failed marriage to her will affect my innocent nippers."

Tears started streaming down Hermione's face. 'Ron is being ridiculous; I'd never walk away from a marriage with children. But hold-on ... Ron said he'd marry me and that 'denotes' that he really does love me. - - Love; what a strange concept for an academic girl like me to struggle with. For the longest time, I couldn't come to terms with what 'love' actually means. When Lavender or Parvati came into the dormitory gushing about "the bloke they loved!," (Which was a different boy every other week), I felt that they horribly misused the term. Love had to be something beyond an excuse for raging hormones and the urge to reproduce'.

'After Malfoy Manor; my romantic allegiance changed dramatically and I found myself with an extra strong attraction to Ron. After six years of chasing Harry futility, Ron just ... ever so abruptly - appeared in the center of my radar. But after ignoring him for years - I didn't dare make too much of a public show of my sudden fascination with him - as I hadn't done that for any other boy at Hogwarts, especially Viktor.

'I lived the last few years in a bubble of- 'experienced based fear', that an attraction to any male … if acted upon … wouldn't last for more than an entire fortnight. Lavender and Patil were my role models of the disadvantages of teenage romance. My dorm-mates were in and out of love in a weeks' time and that made me overly cautious about getting involved with anyone … even Harry - - But if what I just overheard taught me anything … it is that my tactic of being overly-slow with Ron has apparently seriously backfired'.

'I kept my feelings contained and told nobody that I fancied Harry … not once – he suspected of course - and openly shot me down my hopes - a dozen times'. Hermione said to her-self. 'Then came Malfoy Manor and I finally brought myself a clue. I moved on to Ron - but I certainly didn't know if what I feel for him is - love. How could I possibly know what love is… I had no previous experience with that particular emotion? My parents never showed me what love was at home, for they are workaholics; they focused all their energy on their tooth business.

I liked Viktor …as a friend… I liked him enough to let him snog and grope me for a-bit… but not enough to ever contemplate sleeping with him or baring his children. - I fancied Harry too … unrequited feelings - regretfully - but even that began to diminish when I realized that we could never work as a couple … we had no shared interests outside of the war and I even grasped that sad-truth … relatively - early on'.

'But all my confusion about how I felt about Ron still lingered a-tad … right up to today – didn't it?' Hermione admitted to herself. - 'However; it's hard to describe the feelings I experienced when Bellatrix tortured me - - when I heard Ron offer to take my place for Bellatrix's torture. When I heard him scream my name over and over, when I was in the deepest of pain – that I thought of him and only him, even when I thought I was going to die. That was my first clue that I picked the wrong best-friend to love. It was Ron that was at my side every moment at- Shell Cottage - while Harry was off by himself, mourning over Dobby … giving me little thought because he knew, deep down; that Ron would always take care of me.'

'Before that fateful day at the Manor, I often wondered if Harry knew what real adult-love meant … a young man who was for so-long, handicapped with his prophecy issues that ruined his love life - Cho was a disaster and he never even considered me. Ginny has her hands full with Harry – and I don't envy the job ahead of her. As for me - - I have my own chore to do … and that is to keep my Ron - mine. Whoever said that that hero's get an easy life - was a liar?'

"Don't get me wrong," Ron continued. "I know she can be a bitch at times – I know she is my worst critic. I know that living with her will be difficult as hell, but I'm not confusing this feeling with lust or some desperate need to get laid. I actually do know what I'm saying, Hermione is the one and only love of my life and if I knew she'd have me, I'd ask for her hand in marriage tomorrow morning",

Outside in the hallway a wide-eyed Hermione looked at the cracked door - stunned beyond reason

"Even knowing that later-on; she'd leave you for Harry at the drop of a hat - - Wow. - This is big… no … this is huge." said George, echoing Hermione's thoughts. "Where has my baby brother gone?", he teased.

"He grew up during a civil war," Ron retorted sadly. "But don't get your knickers in a twist over my plans to marry-her. Hermione is a super-smart bird and our romance, if there is one – even remotely - - is just beginning to bud … it will take years of careful tending to fully bloom… if at all. - - so don't be in a hurry to rent a tuxedo for my wedding. I told you tonight, how she has been behaving with her at 'arm's length policy' in regards to me. I'm all-but absobloodylutely sure; that now that Harry has turned her down by choosing Gin-Gin … she'll still has loads of smarter - Ravenclaw blokes queueing-up to replace me as the- standby…'friend-with-benefits'… until something better comes along".

'I don't believe I'm hearing this?' – Hermione thought.

"But why go to the bother of replacing you", George pointed out. "Wouldn't it be more convenient for her to continue to play you … you're safe and tightly under her control. Besides; saying she has a boyfriend will make her unapproachable to the numerous… 'two legged hall-rats with a boner' … of returning male students; that will try to hit on her",

"That's a good point actually – she has used Harry primarily as her - 'I can't date you because I'm with…' -excuse for years. You're 'spot on' again, Georgie. Using the- 'boyfriend at home' -excuse will allow her to be more selective when it comes to choosing my replacement".

"I'm not as smart as a Ravenclaw and I'm a bloody drop-out – the fool that didn't finish his schooling. She's not the type to stay 'long term' with an under-educated peasant. I can easily picture a series of 'fill-in' Ravenclaw boyfriends, which she will go through during her- 'seventh year' –at Hogwarts, in search for a politically correct breeder. She'll restrict them as she has with me - since the war… allowing them only the occasional snog; with zero wandering hands… until like I said … the appropriate bloke proves he's- into her -for the long-term".

"Dammit Ron, quit putting yourself down," George growled. "Sure they'll be blokes after her at school, your right she famous after all. A war Hero… Champion to Muggleborn's everywhere. But none of them were around when she was petrified during her second year, none of them sat by her bedside night after night …reading aloud her favorite book… like the Muggle's do for people in a coma… I bet she doesn't even know that you have read to her; Hogwarts a history … cover to cover".

Outside in the hallway Hermione forced a fist into her mouth so that her gasp of stunned surprise wouldn't be heard.

"How did you find-out…? Ron asked utterly gob-smacked.

"Harry told me part of it, from what he saw under his invisible cloak," George retorted. "Fred and I then confirmed the tale with several of the castle ghosts who thought the gesture… very romantic. Finally dear old Bill recently told me the amusing tale of your bedside reading, the other day in an attempt to cheer me up. He knew about it due to some of the late night chats you had with him… while he mended your injuries from spell battles with the- Snatchers -which you don't want her to know about. I don't know all the details …but I do know that you risked your life more than a dozen times to find them … oh hold-on …I mean, 'HER' - and when you did; it was only a couple of fortnights late that you brought them back to recover from the the Manor incident and then ten days later - you left Bill and Fleur for good – for the Gringotts break-in; with only two days of time to pass - - before the Hogwarts Battle".

"She doesn't need to know any of that, George. Promise me you won't tell her. It's better for all concerned; that our relationship dies the way she originally planned it. She thinks me a spineless coward that ran away from, war and death", Ron said in a voice so sad it was nearly a sob. "My perceived lack of courage by deserting them - will overshadow everything I do for the rest of my life."

"Besides; telling her won't change anything – this was all planned out half a year ago. She plans everything to death… that one. The torment provided by that stupid-locket didn't (by itself) make me snap and leave. It was years of being repeatedly overlooked by her …as she focused with cobra like obsession on Harry's every whim. The locket just allowed me to see my worst fears; it twisted those reality based doubts …intensifying them beyond all reason".

"Did you know that the locket didn't affect Harry and Hermione as it did me when they wore it… because I was weak - while they were strong? What the locket whispered only to me …undermining my thoughts was based on real unpleasant truths about my unworthiness. From day-one she has fancied Harry a thousand times more than me. Harry might not fancy her back, but by choosing Harry over me in that ruddy tent …she made her long-term intentions crystal clear to me".

"Unrequited love, you for Hermione and her … for Harry" George pointed-out sadly

"Yeah, that's the size of it …I suppose. I love that girl with my entire heart … but none of that really-matter... after-all… I can't force anyone to love me",

This is when I did it. Caused by a deep emotional overload… I involuntarily made a loud noise …which was part sniffle – and part sob.

(Mean-while: Inside the room…)

Ron's eyes grew large in less than a second. He spun towards the door, but saw nothing. He turned back toward George, who had a knowing smile on his face.

"Someone is out-there listening." George mouthed.

"Who?,"- - Ron mouthed back.

"Most likely Ginny", George whispered back a little-bit louder. "She's never been above eavesdropping to- get dirt –on her brothers.

"Bloody-freakin'-hell," Ron replied angrily. "What do I do now? If she tells Hermione any of what I told you – she'll pack-up and leave… maybe never speak to me again."

"Don't be stupid …You have to cut Ginny off …go to her room right now,! And ask the price of her silence," George replied in a normal voice. "If you don't yield to her blackmail right-away – if nothing else… she'll tell Harry sure as blazes and it still gets back to Granger".

"Harry already knows how I feel about her - - remember; he saw my worst fears in that blasted locket. Like I said before … any Bogart I encounter from now on, will show the image of Hermione shagging Potter's brains-out …or some Ravenclaw bloke at Hogwarts doing the same thing this winter. In fact, she'll most likely fancy having sex with just about anyone, but… me."Ron said fearing more than ever it was Ginny in the hallway.

"Let me know how much gold it cost to buy Ginny off and I'll float you a loan," George franticly whispered. And then, in a much louder voice, just loud enough for person in the hall to clearly hear, he said: "I'm feeling quite tired, Ronnie. You probably should go back to your room, now. Thanks for the talk."

Ron shot him a murderous look and responded. "Yeah… I'll get back to my room now." He made loads of noise getting up on his feet, suddenly feeling very nervous.

"Good luck" mouthed George, as Ron went for the door. He opened it and to his horrified surprise found Hermione there, sitting on the floor just besides the door in her night clothing and robe. She had her eyes closed, like she wished she was invisible and no-one could see her, because she could not see Ron. Tears stained her bright red cheeks. She opened one eye, very slowly.

"Ron!" She stuttered, - - "Eh-hum… Hallo?"

"Hallo; yourself. Would it be rude of me to ask, how much you overheard?"

"Most of it … I think",

"I guessed as much, ahhh… would you come up with me? I think we need to find someplace to talk". He then extended his hand to her and she took it.

"Kitchen?" …Ron suggested as he pulled her-up …thinking it to be a neutral location to hold his execution.

"Let's talk in your room instead" she said nervously.

"Harry might be there…" Ron said, fearing that she was going to tell him everything - anyway.

"Not likely", Hermione replied with a forced casualness. "Ginny's bed was empty half an hour ago, which means that she and Harry are still sharing the cot; that your dad keeps in his tool shed. Most likely they'll stay there - until the sunrise wakes them". And then taking Ron hand, she led the way as they silently climbed up the stairs towards the bright orange bedroom in the attic.

The bedroom was as empty as Hermione said it would be and he went for his bed. Hermione didn't know where to sit - as the room was without a chair – and sitting on Harry's bed would send the wrong message. Her cheeks felt on fire – for she felt so embarrassed, at that moment. - She'd been caught-out. She knew it was a conversation she wasn't supposed to hear, she knew it- 'wasn't proper' -to spy on private moments like this. After an awkward couple of minutes of looking for a place to sit, Ron patted the spot next to him on the bed. She then sat down without a word; and when she did so she sat as far away from him as she could - and naturally; Ron took where she sat the wrong way … as the first of many rejections.

(End of part 1)