Fred's funeral was the saddest day in Ron's life. Yet, through all the sorrow, everyone managed to put on a smile and laugh all through the lunch-in afterward, because they knew Fred wouldn't have it any other way. But still, there were those moments, when Ron shared a story about Fred, or George raved about one of their pranks, that Ron had that sinking feeling in his stomach that Fred was gone, forever, and would never return to crack a joke about Percy or tie Ron to a chair again. In those moments, Ron didn't feel like joining the conversation, and of course, there was only one person who could cheer him up; Hermione.

She came up from behind and slipped her arms around his neck. He grinned weakly, but felt a swooping sensation in his stomach.

"With all the celebration of the downfall of Voldemort, and all the mourning about Fred, we still haven't gotten around to that dinner." Ron pointed out.

"I was just thinking about that." Hermione confessed, letting go of her grip and taking the seat next to him.

"I was thinking...how about tomorrow night?" He said.

"Oh, Ron." Hermione sighed. "I'd love to, but tomorrow, I'm going to be at school."

"Oh, taking your Newts, are you?" He laughed.

"Well, the N.E.W.T.s aren't for about a month, but yes, that's the ultimate plan." She said seriously.

"Wait, you're not joking? You're going back to Hogwarts?" Ron said in disbelief.

"Yes, of course I am, I need to finish my education." Hermione said impatiently.

"No you don't, Hermione, you're the brightest witch of the age! And what's the point of going back for one month?" He asked.

"I wouldn't feel right not finishing it. I have to complete my seven years, even if I did miss eight months of the year." Hermione said, determined. "And I'd like you to complete it with me."

"I can't." Ron cleared his throat. "You know I can't. I have to help George reopen the shop. If I don't, he probably won't do it, the poor chap."

"So, I guess we'll have to wait till I graduate?" She said wistfully.

"I guess." Ron sighed, putting his arm around her.

And soon, the night was over, and with one last hug and kiss goodbye, Hermione was gone, out of reach for a whole month. When Ron woke up the next day, a sinking feeling had hit his stomach, as he longed so much for Hermione. He went straight to his desk and took out a piece of parchment and a quill.

Dear Hermione,

I know it hasn't even been twenty-four hours, but I miss you. I makes me wonder, because I've been away from you for months, thinking about you all the time and missing you lots, but never as much as I have before, with not even a day passing. Why is that? Maybe it's because I've held you in my arms but now you're away from me. Maybe it's because I can still taste your lips, and still feel them pressing onto mine, and now I won't be able to for a month. Either way, I miss you, Hermione, but I hope all is well at Hogwarts.

Love,

Ron

Hermione received the note and read through it, several times. Eyes watering, she traced her fingers over Ron's untidy scrawl, almost feeling the warmth from his hand, trying to imagine what he was thinking as he wrote it. She had to write back, but it would take time. Time to think of something to write that could possibly compare to Ron's beautiful letter. Time to think about what to say, and how to say it.

Dear Ron,

I have officially finished two days of classes at Hogwarts, and let me tell you, it's not the same. Not just the fact that Hogwarts is under construction, and people are coping with death of loved ones and the triumph of the downfall of Voldemort, or even because I'm now being treated as some sort of celebrity, no, the difference is I don't have you and Harry standing here besides me, talking, laughing, doing homework. I can't tell you to pay attention in class and I can't correct your potions essays. No, I have none of that, and I miss it! I miss the company of you and Harry, but more importantly, I just miss you, being here with me. It's hardly fair that after seven years of crushing on you I finally have you, but don't get to see you for an entire month! I miss you, Ron, but hope all is well with your family, George, Harry, the Burrow, Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes, and most importantly, you.

Love,

Hermione

Ron read the letter three times before he clung to it, hugging it tightly. He hugged it. Is that was it had come to? He missed Hermione so much, he would hug anything that had her name written on it? Well, it wasn't ideal, but it would have to do. His only option was to write back. He hoped Pig was up up for the challenge, because this lengthy letter would have to be in a pretty big envelope...