Sorry for the long wait! Initially, this was supposed to be two chapters but since I promised that it would be the Ball chapter, I decided to just lump two chapters in one. This is the hardest chapter I had to write so far, not including the fact that it's over 12000 words long. I hope I have done the story justice so far. Please excuse me if you see any obvious spelling errors. I will try to make the next chapter come out as soon as possible.
Thank you so much to all my readers and reviewers. Please continue to indulge yourself in my story.
Disclaimer: Not mine but JKR's.
P.S. Avengers Infinity War was awesome! I might write an epic Harry Potter fanfic in Avengers-style once this fic is done.
Chapter 10
"Ginny, are you sure you're pregnant?" Harry asked impatiently as Ginny finally calmed herself down from sobbing. Hermione shot in a glare in response as she comforted Ginny in her seat. Harry sighed as he took another swig of Firewhiskey that he had brought in the Room of Requirement. Ginny's eyes were starting to dry as she wiped her face with a piece of tissue that Hermione had brought in.
"I'm late, Harry," Ginny replied as she composed herself. "I'm never late. It's something I'm quite proud of. Furthermore, I have been throwing up rather often. I don't know if I'm hundred-percent pregnant but I'm fairly certain I am."
"Well, then let's get certain. Why don't we do a pregnancy charm to find out?" Harry said as he stared at the two girls.
"For one thing, we don't know the words, Harry," Hermione replied as she got up from her seat and started to pace around. "Secondly, even if we do know the charm, I doubt we can cast it competently. The only one of us who could do that would be..."
"...Ron" Harry finished her sentence while groaning in frustration.
"And we can't tell my brother," Ginny said adamantly. "He doesn't even know that I'm no longer a virgin. How do you think he would react if I suddenly became a mother?"
"We got to tell Dean at least," Harry said determinedly.
"We can't!" Ginny snapped. "I'm sorry… we can't tell Dean until I'm completely sure."
"That only leaves us with a Muggle pregnancy test kit. How the hell are we supposed to get one?" Harry growled in frustration as he kicked a nearby chair.
"Should we try again?" Ginny said as she stared at Hermione. "You sure we can't get it here?"
Hermione sighed in frustration as she explained her reasoning once more.
"Firstly, the room only works if we can sort of imagine what is it we need. None of us have seen a pregnancy test kit before, not even Harry and myself. I'm sure we've glanced at it before but we haven't really seen it. Secondly, every time I try to imagine myself needing a pregnancy kit test, it doesn't work because the room senses that I'm not pregnant. Thirdly, even when you do it, it doesn't come out because maybe and just maybe it's because the room senses that you're not pregnant too! But other than that, I have no idea why it doesn't work."
"See, Ginny? Maybe you aren't really pregnant." Harry reasoned as he could see that Ginny had a hard time believing Hermione's words.
"I still have to be sure, Harry. Do you think Hogsmeade has a muggle store?" Ginny asked as she reasoned everything that Harry and Hermione had told her.
"Not that I know of. Even if it did, I doubt it will have what we need." Harry replied.
"Then I'll just have to go to London or the nearest Muggle town tonight," Ginny said in a tone of finality.
"Tonight?!" Harry and Hermione said in unison.
"Yes, tonight. Harry, can you call Dobby to get me there?" Ginny asked as she took a swig of Firewhiskey before straightening her robes.
"Ginny, listen," Hermione said as she looked at her. "I know you're really eager to find out once and for all but wouldn't it be better to just tell your brother? He can perform the charm and you can find out for sure. If you are really pregnant, you have to tell him anyway. I still think not telling your brother is a bad idea."
"I know it is." Ginny sighed as she looked at Hermione. "But I'm not ready for him to find out just yet and if the test proves that I'm not pregnant, I can avoid having to deal with him. Please, Hermione, Harry, I have to do this. I need your help."
"Fine," Harry said as he looked at Hermione. "I have a plan. I was going to ask Dobby to bring me to London on the day of the ball since we have no classes…"
"Why do you have to go to London?" Hermione interrupted with a tone of surprise.
"Christmas shopping," Harry said as he smiled sheepishly at the two girls.
"You haven't done your shopping yet? Why didn't you do it when we went to Hogsmeade?" Ginny asked
"Because if I recall, your brother got into a fight and we were all kind of distracted?"
"Why didn't you do it in the morning then?"
"Because I was kind of distracted," Harry said as he smirked at Hermione who merely shook her head at him. "Don't you listen to him, Ginny. We went shopping as well. Only this prat decided to window shop rather than buy something."
"At any rate, I figured since the Christmas Ball is held the 22nd of December instead of actual Christmas, I had a plan to sneak out of Hogwarts and buy gifts for you lot. So how about you accompany me to London in the morning? We can go to a store and get that pregnancy kit test for you."
"Fine. But until then, not a word to your sister, Dean, Seamus and most important of all, Ron." Ginny said as Harry nodded.
"I still think it's a bad idea not telling him." Hermione sighed as she thought of her friendship with Ron and how he would react if he found out she knew about Ginny.
…
"Hey, there little brother!"
Ron turned around to see Percy and Bill Weasley running towards him. Before he could say anything, Bill tackled him down to the ground while Percy looked on disapprovingly.
"What are you doing here?" Ron wheezed as he tried to breathe under Bill's crushing arms. Bill only squeezed him harder until Ron tapped on his shoulder in submission as Bill released him from his grip.
"Well, I and Percy had some time off from our Ministry duties. The curse-breakers in Egypt let me have the week off and I went home to visit Mom. After the Burrow, I went to meet Percy and we thought we'll come here to Hogwarts to see how you and Ginny are doing. Plus, you know, check out the ball for some seventh-year who might want to date Percy."
"She'll be like four years younger, Bill," Percy said as he clapped Ron on his back while giving his older brother a stern look.
"Got to find some broad for you now that you and Penelope aren't together. Who cares if she's four years younger? It's still alright to me." Bill laughed as he grinned at Ron.
"Easy for you to say. You have Fleur. She's perfect for you." Percy said as Ron recalled Bill's current girlfriend who studied at Beauxbatons.
"True. Although I can say the same for our younger brother here." Bill laughed as he turned towards Ron. "A little birdie told me that you are currently dating Jamie Potter."
Ron blushed intensely under Bill's smirk as he turned to Percy. Surprisingly, Percy was also smirking at Ron as the two brothers beamed towards the youngest male Weasley.
"It's not official yet. We're just dating." Ron said as quietly as possible.
"Fred and George both believe you must have her under the Imperius Curse," Bill said. "Either that or that she was charmed by your rump."
"Honestly, Ronald," Percy said as he switched to a disapproving persona. "How can you pull off such a stunt? Mother was beside herself when she found out…"
"Mom knows?!" Ron said, horrified at the thought.
"Well, you can't expect the twins to keep silent about this." Bill reasoned.
"Yes, Mom knows," Percy said, ignoring his brothers' comments. "But I convinced her that sending a Howler would only hurt your standing in the school. But I have to say that I'm very disappointed in you as well. Thank Merlin your little act has not reached the ears of the Ministry."
"Now, Percy," Bill said as he clicked his tongue. "We are here to support Ron, not reprimand him."
"Yes, of course," Percy said as he wiped his glasses. "I must say, however, I am impressed that you've captured the heart of Jamie Potter."
"Huh?" Ron said, still shocked that Percy would be fine with him dating Jamie. He always pictured Percy to be a stickler for the rules as well as a firm believer in a career before anything else. It was, after all, what led to his break-up with Penelope Clearwater.
"Well, you see, James Potter is a well-respected member of the Ministry as well as Head Auror. Together with Sirius Black, they both have the highest number of arrests and cases solved amongst the entire division. Lily Potter is Head Healer at St Mungo's as well as the Ministry go-to person when it comes to knowledge about Potions. The Potters are a very-well respected wizarding family and your union with young Jamie will go far in bringing our families together."
"Union?! Are you talking about marriage?" Ron yelled, aghast at Percy's words.
"Of course, I'm talking about marriage," Percy said impatiently while continuing to ignore Ron's looks of horror. "Once you go on your internship to MACUSA, you're going to be there for a good five years with little chance of returning home except for the holidays. Any relationship you pursue would have been an issue but not with young Jamie. From what her dad says, Jamie's got a chance at pursuing a career in Quidditch which means as soon as Hogwarts is over, her dad would be using his connections to get her into a team, most likely the Ballycastle Bats or even the Montrose Magpies. As a Quidditch player, she would have easy access to international Portkeys and can even stay with you in between matches. Furthermore, you get to have one full year of no concerns as she is stuck here doing her NEWTs while you settle down in America."
"You really gave this a lot of thought, haven't you Perce?" Bill remarked as he gave his brother a bemused grin. Ron, however, was at a loss for words as he processed Percy's ramblings.
"Of course, I have. Jamie isn't like Penelope." Percy snapped as he glared at Bill. "From what I heard from Diggory, Jamie's a loyal bird. Would never cheat on Ron and very decent and respectful."
"Not to mention, hot." Bill grinned as Ron groaned in frustration. Sensing Ron's discomfort, Bill turned to Percy.
"Say, why don't you go find Ginny? I need to give Ron the big brother talk. Like the one I gave you about you-know-what." Bill said as Percy's eyes widened in realization. Ron caught on a moment later and was now as red as a tomato.
"Yes of course. Better you than me." Percy muttered as he walked off into the corridor. Before Ron could walk away, Bill grabbed him by the arm and dragged him into the grounds. "Come, let's take a walk towards the Whomping Willow. Merlin knows no one would be dumb enough to go there. We would need privacy for this."
Despite Ron's strong protests, Bill, who was twice the size of Ron, easily dragged him towards the dangerous tree. Sitting a good few feet away from the willow tree's reach, Bill dropped down onto the grass and motioned for Ron to take a seat next to him.
"I'm not going to give you the sex talk," Bill said as he grinned at Ron before looking stern. "Although if you were our little sister, things would be different. Namely, I would be beating Dean Thomas to a pulp. She hasn't done anything stupid, has she?"
"Not that I know of," Ron said as he cast Heating Charms for both Bill and himself. Although it wasn't snowing yet, the cold December winds were cruel as they bit across the skin.
"Good," Bill said as he sported a goofy smile. "If you don't know, that means she hasn't."
"I trust her, Bill. The pact, remember."
"Ahhh, yes." Bill then reached out into his robes and pulled out two Butterbeer bottles and a pack of cigarettes.
"Since when do you smoke?" Ron asked incredulously as Bill lighted a cigarette with his wand. Bill chuckled as he opened the Butterbeer bottles and passed one to Ron.
"Since I've been busting my arse down in Egypt. Don't tell Mum." Bill said as he took a long puff. Ron drank his Butterbeer in silence as the two brothers sat and admired the view of the Scottish Highlands.
"So, what do you want to talk about?" Ron asked as he took another gulp of Butterbeer while Bill sat smoking.
Bill gave Ron a curious look before sighing. Putting out his cigarette, Bill turned to Ron and whipped out a small black box.
"I'm going to ask Fleur to marry me. I want you to be my best man, Ron, together with Charlie."
Ron yelped in shock before giving his brother the widest grin he could think of. "Of course, I would! Congratulations Bill!" Ron said as he pulled his brother into a hug.
"Don't tell Mum. I want to surprise her for Christmas. It's her and Fleur's Christmas gift. Two gifts for the price of one. They don't call me the smartest Weasley for nothing, y'know?" Bill said cheekily as he smirked at Ron who rolled his eyes in response.
"Oh, and Ron, I have another piece of news as well. Dad, Mom, Charlie and I are pulling our resources to get you an apartment in New York once you get there for your internship."
"What?!" Ron yelped. "But the Ministry would be providing me with quarters."
"Ron, do you really think I let my younger brother stay in some dingy Ministry room for five years?" Bill said as he shook his head. "Not a word more out of you, Ronneikins. This was decided by Mom and honestly, all of us are proud of you and wouldn't want anything less."
Ron was still in shock when he nodded at Bill's words. His family was poor, to say the least and the fact that his parents together with his brothers were doing so much for him made Ron feel a little guilty. Sensing his brother's mood, Bill clapped Ron on the back.
"Before you go on feeling guilty about it, just think of it as repayment for helping out with the wedding," Bill said as he grinned at Ron who grinned back in return.
"How do you know she's going to say yes?"
"Have you seen me? She's going to say yes."
"You can be such a prat, Bill."
"I like to think of myself as an expert on women, Ronald."
Ron laughed heartily at Bill's comment. Lately, Ron had felt something missing in his life. He had spent hours thinking about it. He was going out with the perfect girl, had perfect grades, had a wonderful family, had a great relationship with a great group of friends and his dream job. So why wasn't he feeling contented?
"Speaking of women…" Bill started as he sat up and stared at Ron. "Tell me, how did this thing between you and Jamie happen. Now don't skip any details. I want you to tell me everything starting from when you came to Hogwarts this year."
Ron pondered for a minute before spilling out everything to Bill. He started from his promise to Ginny to have fun to the deal he made with Hermione about tutoring her to Hermione becoming a perfect and his recent interaction with Hermione at the corridors, in the Room as well as on the pitch and in Hogsmeade. Ron then talked about Jamie and how he started talking to her on the pitch to the date at Hogsmeade. Ron ended the story with his recent dance with Hermione in the Room. To his credit, Bill didn't interrupt once and only smiled knowingly at him when Ron finished his story.
"Are we talking about Hermione Granger here? The same girl whom you've been complaining about since your third year?"
"Yeah."
"You guys have gotten close, huh."
"You could say that."
"And you guys are back to being friends?"
"Best friends. Honestly, Hermione is just wonderful." Ron sighed as he finished his Butterbeer. Bill, however, had been gazing intently at him before clearing his throat.
"Ron, can I give you a piece of advice? Professor Dumbledore once gave a speech at our End of Year Feast and he told us that it is our choices, far more than our abilities that show who we truly are. He said that in life, we all have to make choices and choose between what is right and what is easy. I think the reason he tells us this is because he knows that while we grow up, we tend to realize certain things about ourselves. Sometimes, the thing you thought you wanted isn't what you really want. Sometimes, we go through life making choices that we think is right because it is what we want only to realize that we made them because they were easy. Because it wasn't what we really wanted. Because we were too scared or too dumb or too much in denial to realize what we really want."
"What's your point, Bill?"
"Thinking back on what Percy just said to you about Jamie and about what I said to you about your career, tell me honestly, Ronald Bilius Weasley, what do you really want?" Bill asked as he stared at Ron who looked back in confusion.
"I want to go to MACUSA and I want to be with Jamie," Ron replied as Bill shook his head.
"You can't even see it, can you?"
"See what? Bill, tell me." Ron replied earnestly. Bill pondered for a bit before shaking his head.
"I can't, Ron. This is something you have to figure out on your own. You're almost there, buddy. Just another nudge should do it. But can I offer you a last piece of advice?" Bill said with as much seriousness to his tone as he could muster. Ron nodded as he waited in anticipation.
"Follow your heart. It rarely leads you astray."
…
"So, Ginny, what do you think?" Harry said as he pointed towards yet another ring in the showcase cabinet.
"Remind me again why you want to get a ring for Hermione?" Ginny asked as she struggled up to her feet from the chair she had been relaxing on.
"Because I want a gift for Hermione that shows that I'm serious about her being my girlfriend. Something extravagant yet not too ostentatious. Something she can wear but can easily remove."
"And from that, you came to the conclusion that you must get a ring?" Ginny said as she shook her head in disbelief.
"Look, I was thinking perfume but I kind of already bought her that for her birthday last year. I haven't gotten her a ring yet and she doesn't need to wear it all the time. What should I have gotten here? A bracelet? Like friendship bracelets? Come on, Ginny!" Harry argued as he continued to scan the display case.
"Why not a necklace? Or a locket? Or earrings?" Ginny retorted as she scanned the display case as well.
"Because Hermione hates wearing earrings and a locket or necklace is like next year's Christmas gift. Got to spread it out, you know."
"Right. Fine, what about that one?" Ginny said as she pointed towards a sapphire ring.
"Are you nuts? Too much!" Harry replied.
"You're right. It is too ostentatious."
"No, I mean the price!"
"Seriously, Potter?" Ginny said as she rolled her eyes. "Just pick something and let's go!"
"May I help you?" A short, bespectacled man in his fifties with blonde hair and a wry smile was standing behind the display case. "My name is Carl and how might I be of assistance?"
"Thank you, Carl. I'm Harry. Listen, I need a gift for my girlfriend." Harry said. Carl clicked his tongue.
"A little late for Christmas shopping, aren't we?"
"Not now, Carl. Could you recommend me anything that says thanks for saying yes to being my girlfriend but I don't want to rush into things? You know, something…ample."
Carl narrowed his eyes at Harry while grinning brightly. "Interesting choice of words, Harry. So, I'm assuming you had an eye on this girl for quite a while and you finally dive into the courage of telling her how you feel." Harry looked triumphantly at Ginny who scoffed.
"Oh please. Don't think you're cooler than you look, Harry. Hi, I'm Ginny." Ginny said as she shook Carl's hand.
"I see. Okay, might I suggest a ring that doesn't have a jewel encrusted on it? A simple gold ring should suffice. Maybe even engrave something on it?"
"Carl, you're a genius! How much are we talking here?"
"About 100 pounds!"
"Carl, you're the worst! I need something cheaper. I'm not going to marry her right away."
Ginny rolled her eyes as Carl glanced between the two of them. "I would advise you not to say that in front of your girlfriend." Both Harry and Ginny jolted at Carl's comment.
"Oh, no, no, no. Ginny's not my girlfriend." Harry said hastily as Ginny still looked in shock.
"My humblest apologies. Most of the time, men who come in here close to Christmas often bring their girlfriends or wives to help them pick the present. Prevents returns, so I'm not complaining."
"Apology accepted. So, Carl, what's your cheapest ring?" Harry said but before Carl could answer, Ginny interrupted him.
"Why do you think that I'm dating Harry?" Ginny asked.
Carl sighed as he stared at the young pair. "I've been watching you both since you entered the store. You both seemed to bicker most of the time and yet I could sense a certain chemistry between you both. Besides, it's obvious that you both care about each other. Harry here could have come here by himself and gotten the present and yet he spent the last thirty minutes asking you for your opinion on everything he picks, making me think he values your opinion."
"Okay, then what about Ginny caring about me?" Harry asked.
"She's here with you in the store in this freezing weather close to Christmas and she's carrying your shopping bags," Carl said as he pointed towards the shopping bags that Harry had thrown onto Ginny when he raced into the store.
"Oh right," Harry said sheepishly as Ginny gave him a smirk.
"I can get one for you at thirty pounds and you can engrave her name on it," Carl said as he looked at Harry who sighed with relief.
"Thank you, Carl."
"Should I get one for miss Ginny as well?" Carl replied cheekily as Ginny squealed and clapped her hands.
"Not now, Carl!" Harry said as he ushered Ginny away from the display case.
"Sorry, Ginny. Not until next year, okay?"
"It's okay, Harry. But I'll hold you to that." Ginny said as she sighed. "I think it's sweet you're getting Hermione a nice gift. She's going to love it. You guys really are the Dream Pair."
"Ginny, you okay?" Harry asked as he looked at Ginny whose thoughts were clearly elsewhere. "Ginny?"
"I don't know if Dean's the one," Ginny said quietly as she touched her stomach.
"What do you mean?"
"I mean Harry like I keep thinking about what if I do have a baby? I mean the thought of keeping it is one thing but I can't help but think what about Dean? If I do have Dean's baby, why don't I feel happy about it?"
"Maybe because you're having the baby out of wedlock?"
"No, I mean even if I pretended we were married, it still feels strange. You guys don't know this but we fight all the time. I look you and Hermione and even Ron and Jamie and I think to myself, there are two couples who even though just recently got together, they seem much closer to each other than me and Dean. That's not even the worst part."
"What is?" Harry said, staring at Ginny intently.
"The worst part is that these fights aren't Dean's fault. I keep fighting with him. He keeps looking out for me and I think that's great but at the same time, I feel like that's all he does. Look out for me. And at the end of this year, he'll be leaving and I thought, as horrible as this may be, that it would be easier for us to go our separate ways. But now, with a baby? I just don't know what to do." Ginny said as she sighed again.
Harry walked towards Ginny and pulled her into a hug. Ginny returned the embrace briefly before pushing herself off. "Can't have you hugging a girl while buying a gift for your girlfriend. Carl would notice."
Harry smiled. "Think of it as a friend giving a big brother hug because you can't tell your big brother now."
"So, if it was Jamie, you would do the same?"
"No. I probably kill Dean for knocking her up and her too."
"Good to know!"
"Ahhhh!" Carl said as he emerged from the back with a ring ready to be engraved. "You sure you don't want me to put her name now?"
"NOT NOW, CARL!" Harry and Ginny said in unison.
…
"So, you and Ron excited for tonight?" Hermione said as she continued to brush Jamie's hair.
"More like nervous." Jamie grinned as she smiled at herself in the mirror. "You really think I shouldn't braid it or put it in a bun or do something with it? Seems kind of plain."
"Trust me. If Ron's going to see you tonight, best let him see you as who you are. The girl he fell for." Hermione said as she felt her body shudder at the words. Ignoring her emotions, Hermione looked back at Jamie.
"So, can I see the dress one more time?"
"Only if you show me yours?"
"Deal!"
Jamie smiled as she waved her wand and from her cupboard, a beautiful, periwinkle gown emerged with diamonds glittering around its frills. Jamie got up and walked towards her hamper where she pulled out a diamond tiara that was wrapped in cloth. She placed it on her head and waved her wand so that the dress floated in front of her giving Hermione a good look at what Jamie would look like during the ball. Hermione was squealing in delight.
"You looked absolutely gorgeous!" Hermione said.
"Oh, for the love of Merlin, Jamie," Lavender said as she and Parvati entered the dormitory. "Give us regular girls a chance."
"You looked positively beautiful, Jamie," Parvati said as she walked over to admire the dress.
"Oh please," Lavender said as she smirked at Jamie. "Jamie could come in naked and still get everyone's attention." All the girls started to giggle at Lavender's comment before Jamie waved her dress back into the cupboard.
"Maybe that's how I'll look at the end of the night?" Jamie said as she winked at Lavender. Parvati and Hermione looked confused as Lavender started to giggle before rolling her eyes at the other two girls.
"She's thinking of sleeping with Ron."
Suddenly, the pain that Hermione had been ignoring for weeks ever since it first came about had hit Hermione with a vengeance. Only this time, Hermione knew what the emotion was.
"What?" Hermione said as Parvati giggled together with Lavender. "But you guys aren't official yet?"
"So?" Lavender said as Jamie stared at Hermione. "Knowing Ron, he's probably going to make it official tonight. Do you not remember the fourth-year ball? Do you know how many seventh years and sixth years were doing it all around Hogwarts?"
"Besides, I'm pretty sure if you and Ron do sleep together, he will most definitely ask you to be his girlfriend," Parvati added. Hermione glared at Parvati and Lavender before grabbing Jamie on her hand and dragging her outside the dormitory.
"Hermione, what gives?" Jamie said as she stared with concern at her friend. Hermione, however, was looking positively furious.
"You tell me! You told us the other night that you were not going to sleep with Ron so what changed?"
Jamie narrowed her eyes. "What's it to you?"
"Because you only started dating for a short time. You can't just throw yourself at him like that."
"I'm not going to throw myself at him!" Jamie screeched before she took a deep breath and calmed herself down. Looking back at Hermione, Jamie gave her the most apologetic expression that she could muster. "Look, I'm going to go out to the ball with him and if things go well, I may or may not sleep with him. Don't paint me as some sort of scarlet woman, Hermione!"
"I just think you should wait."
"Why? I've waited long enough and quite frankly, I'm worried that I will always be scared to lose it. But Ron's a great guy, isn't he?"
Hermione remained silent until she realized that Jamie wasn't backing down. "Yes."
"And does he seem like the type to pressure me into having sex like Davies or Diggory would?"
"No."
"And since I love him and he loves me, shouldn't we be able to express ourselves to each other?"
"Yes."
"So why can't I sleep with Ron?"
Hermione said nothing but continued to glare at her best friend even though her expression was starting to soften.
"Hermione you're my best friend and I always take your advice. I will always listen to you no matter what and if you can give me a good reason as to why I shouldn't sleep with him then trust me when I say I won't do that. So, tell me, is there anything I should know?"
Jamie tapped her foot as she narrowed her eyes at Hermione. Hermione's anger had completely subsided only to be replaced by a strong lingering presence of sadness. Yet Hermione refused to let the emotion mirror itself onto her face. Instead, Hermione decided to frown at Jamie.
"You really love him?" Hermione said, refusing to answer Jamie's question.
"Yes."
"Then okay. I trust you. I'm sorry for jumping on you. Ron's a great guy and a good friend and I don't want to see him get hurt. Nor you of course." Hermione sighed as she shrugged her shoulders. A smile suddenly broke out on Jamie's face as she gave her best friend a hug.
"By the way, best friend's rule, you cannot tell my brother what we just discussed."
"Hah, I may jump to conclusions," Hermione said as she smiled at Jamie. "But I won't do that." The strong painful emotion had come back again. Hermione saw Jamie mouth a thank you towards her before entering the dormitory but she couldn't hear her. Because the thoughts in Hermione's head were getting louder by the second. Each shouting the exact same thing. Maybe it was her last words to Jamie that made them stronger seeing how those words had reminded Hermione of a great moment she shared with Ron in the Room of Requirement. Nevertheless, what was done was done and Hermione resigned herself to the fate that even though she couldn't stop the voices from screaming it out, at least they did identify the emotion.
Hermione Granger was jealous. Jealous of Ron Weasley and Jamie Potter.
…
"So, you think Hermione would mind me wearing her ring?" Ginny said as she squinted at it. Harry removed it from her hand in a huff as he promptly placed it back into the black box.
"Thanks for letting me use your finger to size the ring."
"No problem. I didn't know me and Hermione have the same size hands."
"Coincidence," Harry replied as he stopped in front of a convenience store. "Okay, so this store has a pharmacy section so I'm betting they have the pregnancy kit test. Also, it looks kind of secluded so it shouldn't be weird that you're buying one."
"I still need you to help me point it out," Ginny said as she grabbed his arm to drag him into the store.
"Can't you just read the label and buy it? I already gave you the money." Harry replied as he stood his ground.
"Oh, stop being such a baby, Potter!"
"Great mothering advice, Mom!"
"Harry! Please?" Ginny said as she placed her hands by her hips. Harry groaned loudly before grumbling as he pushed past her into the store. Ginny gave him a triumphant smile as she walked behind him.
"Here," Harry said as he took a pink pregnancy kit test from the aisle. "Come, let's just buy this so that I can call Dobby who can grab us back to Hogwarts."
Ginny nodded as she walked together with Harry towards the cashier. Harry pretended to be interested in the magazines as Ginny waited in line to pay. The cashier was an elderly lady with a stern disapproving face like Professor McGonagall. She narrowed her eyes at Ginny as she placed the money on the counter.
"I'm sorry, dear, but how old are you?"
"I'm old enough. I'm eighteen." Ginny replied as she glanced at Harry who looked away. Catching Harry in her sight, the cashier stared at him coldly before turning back to Ginny.
"Before I allow this purchase to happen, could you please call your boyfriend over here?"
"He's not my boyfriend."
"I'm sorry?" the cashier said as she squinted her eyes at Ginny. "So, you're purchasing a pregnancy kit test with someone you're not even in love with?"
"What I meant was…he's not my boyfriend, he's much more than that!" Ginny said quickly as she called Harry over. "Hi dear!" Ginny said nervously at Harry who looked confused.
"Are you the gentleman that may have knocked up this young girl?" the cashier asked as Harry looked bewildered at the situation. Ginny whispered to Harry. "Harry, Confound this woman. I got the Trace on me. You do it."
"I can't. I left my wand in the dormitory."
"Potter, you are the worst!" Ginny snapped silently as she put on an angry scowl for the cashier. "I'm sorry but I don't see how this is any of your business. If you don't want to sell it to us, we are just going to go elsewhere."
"Oh no, you don't." the cashier said as she grabbed the money and the pregnancy kit test before Ginny could reach for it. "I'm sorry dear but I'm doing what's best for you. Does your mother know that you are purchasing this?"
"Why does it matter if I am?" Ginny said, now furious with the cashier. The bell on the door of the convenience store started to ring as a new customer entered.
"Well, well, what's going on?" A familiar voice spoke as Harry and Ginny turned around.
"Carl!" Harry said as the familiar old man entered.
"Mary, what are you doing?" Carl said as he stared at the angry little cashier.
"I think these kids are making a bad mistake," Mary said as she scowled at Harry and Ginny.
"Well, Mary, I know how strict you are with your values but I can assure you that these two have got it right. Why Harry here even bought something to give to miss Ginny. You know? The kind that comes in a black box?" Carl said as he winked at Harry. Getting the signal, Harry nodded as he removed the black box from his robes. Mary, however, still looked unconvinced.
"I don't know, Carl…" Ginny groaned in frustration and was about to say something to retort when she felt Harry pulled her towards his face.
"Just go with it and don't read too much into what I'm doing," Harry whispered quickly before crashing his lips onto hers. Ginny looked shocked at first before her eyes caught Mary and Carl staring at them. Deciding it was for the best, Ginny pulled Harry even closer as she kissed him back.
"Okay. I'm sorry." Mary said out loud, causing Harry and Ginny to break off each other. "I'm a mother and unplanned pregnancies are of no surprise to me. I just wanted you both to be sure that you're in love. Especially now that I know you got something serious planned."
Mary pointed towards Harry's black box. Harry flashed her a smile before pocketing the box away, not wanting to look at Carl.
"Here," Mary said as she placed the kit into a bag and gave it to Ginny with the money as well. "It's on the house. A gesture for my rude behaviour. Also, you can have these. If you teens are going to do it anyways, might as well be protected although I do wish you had gotten these sooner before you realized you needed the kit." Mary added as she took out a box of birth control pills and a pack of condoms and placed it into the bag. Harry looked horrified as Ginny started to blush furiously
"Err…Thanks." Ginny muttered hastily as she placed the bag in one of Harry's shopping bags and the pair of them as well as Carl hurried outside the shop as fast as they could.
"Thanks, Carl," Harry said as he grinned at the man. "I didn't know you were stalking me."
"I was on break," Carl said as he grinned back. "What do you think you are? Famous or something?"
"It was nice to meet you, Carl. Have a great Christmas." Ginny said as she dragged Harry off into the opposite direction. Once they were out of sight from Carl, Ginny pushed Harry into a nearby alley and smacked him hard on his forehead.
"OWW!" Harry screamed as he glared at Ginny. "What the hell?!"
"That was for kissing me, you prat! You have a girlfriend and I have a boyfriend."
"I did it so that Mary would buy that we were a couple!"
"It better not be because you wanted to, Potter! I'm not some scarlet woman."
"Oh please. Like I would want to kiss you?! I prefer my girlfriend, thank you very much."
"So, we agree," Ginny said as she glared at Harry. "We both hated it, won't ever bring it up and we should get back to Hogwarts now?"
"Agreed," Harry said as he rubbed his forehead. "You better not have left like a scar on here."
"How weird would that be?" Ginny said as she rubbed her hand on his forehead. Harry flinched as she touched his skin as if he had burned her. Rolling her eyes, she pulled her hand away as Harry grinned sheepishly at her.
"I was thinking we should leave the bag with your stuff with Dobby. That way, he can pass it to you once everyone has gone to bed and you don't have to worry about it being seen by the girls in your dormitory." Harry said as Ginny nodded to his suggestion. As Harry whispered for Dobby to appear and take them back to Hogwarts, Ginny wondered that even though the freezing winds of December were upon them, she could not help feeling a little warm.
…..
It was undoubtedly the grandest ball Ron had ever been in. Which wasn't saying much since he had only been invited to one other ball which he had experienced with his sister. Yet this ball was so much more extravagant than Ron would have pictured. The ceiling of the Great Hall had been enchanted to look like a snowy night sky with light snow falling down at intervals. A dance floor had been set up in the middle of the hall with round tables all around its sides. Christmas decorations covered the walls with Christmas trees decorated with all sorts of ornaments, including Ron noted with disgust, Ronald's Rumps.
He walked back towards the Entrance Hall where Harry, Dean, and Seamus were waiting for the girls to arrive. Seamus was the first to leave once Daphne Greengrass appeared. The blonde yet pretty Slytherin witch wore a green gown and while she looked happy to see Seamus, she pretended not to notice the other boys although Ron could have sworn her eyes raked him up and down while he stood in his dinner jacket.
Ginny came down next in her maroon gown and she made a beeline for Dean who smiled and tried to kiss her lips only for Ginny to swerve her head at the last minute to receive a peck on the cheek. She looked nervous and gave Ron a strange lopsided grin before allowing her boyfriend to pull her away. Ron could have sworn that Harry was blushing too. Before he could ask Harry anything, Hermione appeared in her yellow dress that Ron had found so breath-taking. Harry looked stunned before coming to his senses and rushing towards Hermione, capturing her lips in a kiss that Ron felt looked more forced than necessary. He looked away once Hermione got over her surprise and kissed Harry back. As the couple walked past Ron, Hermione whispered something to Harry before turning to Ron.
"She's coming. You're going to do fine. Good luck, Ron." Hermione said softly even though her eyes looked sad. Again, Ron tried to speak but Harry had already guided her into the hall. Ron sighed as he adjusted his bow tie. As he watched the couple leave his sight, a soft clearing of the throat made caused Ron to turn around.
To say that Jamie Potter was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen would be a greater understatement that saying Dumbledore was a great wizard.
Ron could only gulp as Jamie approached him in her periwinkle gown with her diamonds glittering like stars. Her tiara together with her simple ponytail and the blushing countenance that stood before Ron made him clear his throat as a loud yet somehow hoarse voice left his throat and made a single word.
"Wow!"
"My sentiments exactly," Jamie said as she admired Ron in his dinner jacket. "Hermione said you looked amazing but honestly, I have no words to describe you. And I have to admit even though I was jealous before, it's nothing compared to how I would feel around you tonight with probably every girl staring at you. Just promise to keep your eyes on me?" Jamie said as she smiled at him.
Ron beamed back at her and linked her arm around his. "Just try to stop me."
Jamie and Ron walked into the Great Hall that was now swarming with students, teachers, and guests. He could see how everyone had begun to stare at them as they walked into the hall towards the round table where the Pack was sitting. Ron noticed how every guy had turned their heads to stare at Jamie while some of the girls were gazing intently at Ron. Lavender Brown made a wolf whistle while her date, Anthony Goldstein, gave Ron a cold stare which he changed into a smile as soon as Jamie made eye contact with him. Ron waved at Neville who was with Luna Lovegood. Before he could say anything, Neville grinned sheepishly as Luna dragged him off to a table of Ravenclaws. Feeling happy for his friend, Ron and Jamie turned and sat down at the Pack's table.
"So, Daphne, this is Jamie and her man, Ronald Weasley," Seamus said as he grinned at Ron. Daphne, however, rolled her eyes.
"You're introducing them to me like we haven't met before in all seven years of our Hogwarts education."
"Well, I just wanted you to be welcome since now you are part of the Pack."
"Err, Seamus." Harry and Dean said in unison while glancing nervously at him. Seamus sighed as he gave them both a dark glare.
"You are part of the Pack because we here don't discriminate especially when it comes to our soulmates."
"What makes you think you and Daphne are soulmates? No offense, Daphne." Ginny asked as Daphne smiled at her.
"None taken, Ginny. Seriously, Seamus, this is just one date. Desperate much?"
"For you my lady. I am desperate for you. Just think. You, a Slytherin and I, a Gryffindor. From our two houses, we become star-crossed lovers like Romeo and Juliet. The Montagues and the Catapults." Seamus said smugly as the rest of the group stared at him.
"Don't you mean the Capulet?" Hermione said as she shook her head.
"You sure it wasn't Catapult? Cos that would have been so cool." Seamus sighed as Dean laughed at him.
"You do know that both those lovers died due to suicide, right?" Ron said as the rest nodded at his words.
"Yeah, but they took a chance, didn't they? I mean, think about it. If you're looking for a story that spews out romance and happy endings, there's a ton of books like that all around. But it isn't the ending that's important. Do you guys know who Rosaline is?"
"Some skank you hooked up with?" Daphne said, earning snickers from the group while Seamus rolled his eyes and stood up.
"Gather around, children, let Uncle Seamus tell you a story," Seamus said as he walked around the group while tapping each chair as he passed by.
"Now, first of all, I would like to say that the only reason I know Romeo and Juliet is because we had to do a book report in Muggle Studies and not because I spend my life in some stuffy library. No offense, Ron."
Ron flinched but before he could utter a single word, Jamie silenced him by grabbing his hand.
"Now, Rosaline happens to be the girl that poor old' Romeo was head over heels for. I mean, really in love with. So much so that Romeo actually sneaks into the Capulet's party to see her only for his heart to be captured instantly and so ruthlessly by the sight of dear old' Juliet. Of which, the sight of her caused him to fall hopelessly in love. So, then he does what every boy would do. He sneaks into her yard, professes his love for her, she does the same for him, they get married that very same day I think, families find out, they fight and then they die for each other. It's the dream, I know."
"Really, Seamus? You plan to die for Daphne?" Harry said as Seamus looked at Daphne who seemed to wonder if it wasn't too late to leave for another table.
"I might die from her," Seamus said earning a glare from his date. "It's a tragedy, Harry. Of course, they die for each other. All the best love stories must have tragic characters and death. But you're missing the point."
"So, what is the point?" Dean asked.
"That Romeo followed his heart. To which, I intend to do the same." Seamus said as he turned to Daphne. "Forget about our houses, Greengrass. For you are a rose. A rose by any other name would still smell as sweet. For when I look at you, I never saw true beauty before tonight….and okay that's all of the quotes I can remember so far."
Everyone laughed as Ron scoffed out loud. Sensing a challenge, Seamus took his chair and brought it next to Ron before smirking at him.
"Would you like to share your theory, Weasley?"
"If you don't mind."
"Go ahead. You have the floor."
"Okay," Ron said as he cleared his throat. "Your entire message about following the heart is flawed from the beginning. If Romeo claimed to be in love with Rosaline, why did he suddenly have a change of heart when he saw Juliet, a girl who he had just seen? Because of her looks? Could it be possible that he was just in love with the image of her? Juliet could have been a completely horrible person and yet he claimed he was in love with her just because he saw how beautiful she was? And then, the most unrealistic part happens where Juliet in turn, fell for Romeo upon seeing him and hearing him speak and they get married right there and then. Rosaline was a better fit for Romeo judging by the fact that his family would rather he be with her than with Juliet. If Romeo had just used his head, he would have lived longer."
"Or he would have died due to the ongoing war in Verona. The choice of his heart at least made his life infinitely better than it would have been had he settled for Rosaline."
"Would he? What if Rosaline was the perfect girl for him? I mean compatibility-wise?" Ron said. For some reason, he avoided staring at Jamie or Hermione. "What if Rosaline, the girl that he was in love with loved him back and he had for ages had a crush on her and finally she reciprocated? Should he throw that all away for Juliet, a girl who he might be happier with but will most likely end up in tragedy?"
"Are we still talking about the book?" Seamus said as he stared at Ron who in turn, smiled and nodded at him.
"I don't think we are," Daphne said as she gave Ron a strange grin.
"We are." Ron insisted as he sat back in his chair.
"Well, if you ask me, he should still go for Juliet. Life's short and we have to make the most of it. These violent delights have violent ends but we have to decide if it is the delights or the ends that we choose to live by." Seamus said as he beamed at the group who was now staring in shock at Seamus's wise words.
"What?" Seamus said as he motioned for Daphne to follow him to the dance floor. "I'm more than just a pretty face." With much grumbling, although Ron could see Daphne blushing, she allowed Seamus to hold her hand as he brought her to the dance floor.
"Dean, let's dance," Ginny said as she grabbed his hand and dragged her boyfriend towards the dance floor before he could protest.
"What's gotten into her?" Jamie said as Hermione gave Harry a strange look. Ron noted how the latter glared back at Hermione before plastering a smile on his face as he looked towards Ron and Jamie.
"Nothing. Say, why don't you two go dance while I wait with Hermione for the food? We'll call you guys once the food comes." Harry said as Hermione's eyes perked up at the mention of food. Ron smiled as he thanked Harry before bringing Jamie onto the dance floor. Thinking back to what Seamus just said, Ron felt more determined than ever to tell Jamie how he felt. It was, after all, what he wanted wasn't it?
"Jamie, I need to ask you something," Ron said as Jamie's eyes perked up upon hearing his words. Throwing her arms around his neck, Jamie brought her mouth closer to Ron's.
"Tell me at the end of the ball, okay? I want to hear it then."
…..
The ball was a tremendous success so far as it approached its finale. Lee Jordan, whom Professor McGonagall had reluctantly agreed to allow him to play songs for the ball as well as host it, had been on his game tonight. The food was excellent as Ron noted how even Hermione was worried that she would pop out of her dress for fear of eating too much. Everyone was dancing and enjoying themselves. Ron saw Neville, whom everyone cheered loudly for when he swooped in to kiss Luna only for Luna to respond eagerly before the pair ran away at the sight of Snape who had made his way towards them. The Pack was now dancing on the dance floor with Jamie dancing around Seamus and Dean. Ron also noted how Ginny was dancing with Harry although the two seemed eager not to come into any sort of contact with each other. Realizing Hermione was missing, Ron took another gulp of water before scanning the floor for her. Unable to find her, Ron stood up to look for her only to receive a tap on his shoulder.
"Too tired to dance?" Hermione said as she smiled at him when Ron turned to face her.
"Nah, more like saving myself for Jamie."
"Oh," Hermione said quietly as Ron could see she was frowning to herself before dismissing her expression and smiling back at Ron. "Well, I'm here to tell you some good news."
"What?"
"I persuaded Lee to play a special song for the finale. That should help you with your mission. You know, getting her to be your girlfriend and kissing her."
"What song is it?"
"You'll see," Hermione said as she gave him a hug before whispering into his ear, making Ron shiver. "Good luck. Now go to Jamie."
"Thanks, Hermione for everything," Ron said as he pulled away. Hermione, however, looked sad as she smiled back at him. "I'm happy for you, Ron," Hermione replied before she walked towards Harry.
Ron walked towards Jamie and stuck out his hand. "May I have the last dance?"
"Only if you promise me that it won't be our last," Jamie said as she grinned at him before putting her arms around his neck while he put his around her waist. On the stage, Lee ended the song before clearing his throat.
"Sorry to do this folks, but this is our last song for the evening. I know, I know, you guys want to hear me play all night but you know what they say, all good things must come to an end. So, this song is going to be a love song. And no, I know how some of you might have heard of the new Muggle movie that just came out called Titanic. And how the song "My Heart Will Go On" by muggle singer Celine Dion is now top of the charts. But I won't be playing that because frankly, I hated the movie. There was space on that goddamn piece of wood, Rose! How can you bloody let Jack die like that?"
"MR JORDAN!" Professor McGonagall yelled as Lee cowered under her towering voice.
"Sorry, Professor but I am a hopeless romantic. They could have been together!"
"MR JORDAN!"
"Okay, okay. Relax professor. I realize I might have just spoilt the ending."
"You think?!" someone shouted as Lee cringed.
"Anyways, here's a classic song. A song from the Muggle world that depicts how love can find us even when we're looking for it elsewhere. You might say it is a tale. A tale as old as time." Lee said as the song from Beauty and the Beast started to play. Ron took a quick glance at Hermione who was already dancing with Harry. She smiled and winked at him. Feeling grateful, Ron winked and smiled back.
"I love this song," Jamie said as she pulled Ron in closer.
"Hermione helped me to request it. She hopes that it would give me courage."
"Courage to do what?"
"Wait till the end and I'll show you," Ron said as Jamie smiled back at him. As they danced to the song and Jamie complimented Ron on his dancing abilities, Ron's mind could not help but analyse the lyrics of the song.
Tale as old as time. True as it can be.
Ron thought of the story of Romeo and Juliet that Seamus had told.
Barely even friends. Then somebody bends. Unexpectedly.
This was him and Jamie. They were barely friends until the talk on the Quidditch Pitch. From that to their Hogsmeade date, they had grown closer until they reached this moment right now.
Or it could be referring to Hermione. Weren't you guys barely friends until you both decided to put the past behind for the sake of helping each other and now look how close you are?
Just a little change. Small to say the least.
That had to be him and Jamie. How much they changed in their interaction towards each other. It hadn't been much of a change but it was significant enough to point them towards each other.
Or how you and Hermione changed? Not much since you've always sort of care for her? Why else did you do her work for her all those years ago, look out for her and even forgive her so easily? Was there really much of a change? No. Yet still significant, isn't it?
Both a little scared. Neither one prepared. Beauty and the Beast.
Him and Jamie again. Both had been insecure and scared about approaching this moment and definitely, nothing had prepared them for it not even Jamie who was so often very secure in her past relationships. Plus, she is a beauty and Ron is most definitely a Beast.
So are you and Hermione. Hermione is gorgeous too! And face it, both of you were scared about facing each other again, always hiding behind insults and lies about being happy for the other. Yet despite her tenacity and your ability to anticipate, neither of you saw it coming did you?
Ever just the same. Ever a surprise. Ever as before, ever just as sure, as the sun will rise.
Him and Jamie. Meant for each other…
You would always go back to Hermione. She's the first girl you ever really cared about. Even though you're realizing it like about seven years late and it may seem like a surprise, you will always care for Hermione.
"Ron are you okay?" Jamie said as Ron stared at her curiously. Ron hadn't heard her. Instead, the voice, which seemed to be coming from his chest, was drowning out the others in his head.
Tale as old as time. Tune as old as song.
Ron thought about what Bill had said about asking him what he really wanted. He thought about what Seamus had said about Romeo picking Juliet.
Bittersweet and strange. Finding you can change. Learning you were wrong.
Him and Jamie…
Do I really have to explain this one? Think of how much you change this year, how happier you are for it and the person who is really responsible for all that.
Ron shook his head as the song was drawing to a close. Smiling at Jamie who was now staring intensely into his eyes, Ron allowed himself to drown in her green eyes as he opened his mouth to speak. Without hesitating, Ron said the words he had been practicising ever since he first said it to her picture inside the yearbook that he kept in his room.
"Jamie Potter. I have been falling for you for so long. Will you be my girlfriend?" Jamie smiled at Ron before pulling him closer and whispering in his ear.
"Yes."
Cue the butterflies.
The butterflies.
The butterflies are gone. So was the lump in his throat. What was going on?
"Kiss me, Ron," Jamie said as she looked at him expectantly
Tale as old as time. Song as old as rhyme.
Ron pulled Jamie to his lips and pressed them against his. He felt her kissing him back as he pulled her tighter, pushing every single one of his emotions, his love all into her as he brought his hands and run it through her brown, bushy hair…
Wait, her brown bushy hair?!
And her hazel-coloured eyes.
But Jamie's eyes are green!
So, they are. And yet here you are, kissing Jamie Lily Potter when you are clearly in love with Hermione Jean Granger.
Beauty and the Beast.
"Ron. That was perfect." Jamie said as she pulled away from his lips for air. Everyone was applauding now either to the song or to him and Jamie kissing. Yet, Ron could not bear to look anywhere except at Jamie's face. As Jamie Potter aka Rosaline went in for another kiss before Ron could object, a single word escaped his lips before Jamie's touched his. Ron was immensely grateful that over the noise generated from the ball and Jamie caught up in the moment, she had not heard him.
"Mione."
…
Ron strode along the corridors to the kitchen as fast as he could. The Pack had wanted to continue their Christmas celebration back at the boy's dormitory. Ron had told Jamie to tell the group that he had to go to the kitchens to collect food and drinks from the elves to bring up as well as spread pamphlets about S.P.E.W. Jamie agreed to his suggestion and had left with the Pack back to the Gryffindor tower. Ron, on the other hand, was beside himself as many thoughts raced through his head with each step he took towards the kitchens.
The truth had dawned on him. The emotion he felt whenever Hermione had talked about Harry. It was jealousy. He was jealous because, in his quest to date his long-time crush Jamie Potter, Ron had inadvertently fallen in love with her best friend. Hermione bloody Jean bloody Granger!
Fuck!
Ron sighed as he allowed his brain to do the math.
Jamie Potter was everything he looked for in a girl. She was beautiful and intelligent. They could carry deep and insightful conversations. She was into him. She and Ron were compatible on every level just as Percy had said and she would most definitely support him in his career. As she had one more year of Hogwarts, Ron could spend the first year of his career adjusting to life while waiting for Jamie to join him. A beautiful future was planned out for them.
And then there was Hermione Granger. Lazy although still improving. Can be an insensitive prat at times. Foul-mouthed with such dirty thoughts. Always bickering with him. Not on his level intellectually and might disappear into the Muggle world once Hogwarts is over. Not worth jeopardizing his career for and definitely would not be easier to acclimate to his family with Percy definitely opposing their relationship. There were a ton of reasons why Hermione Granger would not be a viable option while Jamie was most definitely the best choice. Jamie was perfect in every way except…
Except that she's not Hermione Granger who you love.
"SHUT UP!" Ron yelled to himself as he banged his fist on the wall.
"Master Wheezy!" Dobby said as the elf appeared behind Ron, giving him a fright.
"Dobby!" Ron yelled as he recognized the elf that Harry was close to. Ron had known Dobby earlier from his previous forays to recruit elves for his organization. "You scared me!"
Dobby immediately started to bang his head against the wall. "Dobby is a bad elf! Master Wheezy is so kind to Dobby and Dobby scared him! Dobby deserves to be punished!"
"NO!" Ron shouted as he prevented the elf from hurting himself. "I'm fine. Listen to me, Dobby, I need your help. Do you mind preparing some food and drinks to bring up to my dormitory? Harry Potter and I are having a party there."
Dobby gasped at the mention of Harry's name before giving Ron a poorly executed salute. "Dobby will prepare the items. Dobby will bring them up to the room. Don't need to trouble yourself, Master Wheezy. Dobby will do it."
"Thanks, Dobby," Ron said as he spied a brown bag that had dropped out of Dobby's grasp. "Dobby, you dropped this," Ron said as he gave the bag to Dobby.
"Oh, thank you Master Wheezy. Miss Wheezy would have been most upset if I lost this."
"Wait…" Ron said as he stared at the elf. "This is Ginny's? She gave you a gift?"
"No, Miss Wheezy said that I should give this to her once everyone is asleep. She said I need to hold on to this as it is very important."
"Well, why don't you pass it to me and I will bring it to her? I am her brother, after all." Ron said as he stuck his hand out. Dobby gripped the bag tighter as he looked uneasy at disobeying an order.
"Dobby shouldn't trouble Mr. Wheezy."
"Dobby, it's okay."
"No, Dobby should go. Dobby can bring the food and later Dobby can pass the bag."
"That's like two jobs. So unnecessary. Dobby, give me the bag. I'm a Prefect so that is an order."
Dobby still looked uneasy but eventually, he relented. Passing the bag to Ron, Dobby gave him a kiss on his hand before running back to the kitchens.
"What is in this bag?" Ron said out loud as he opened the bag to look at the items. His eyes widened in shock as he stopped breathing. Taking the kit out, as well as the pills and the pack of condoms, Ron's brain went into overdrive before his heart started to speak again.
Only this time, his emotions and thoughts were agreeing on something. And Ron felt it stronger than ever. An emotion that triumphed over the shock as well as his internal struggle with his love life.
Rage.
…..
"It was amazing!" Jamie said as Hermione, Ginny, Lavender, Parvati, Luna, and Daphne gathered around her on Ron's bed. Neville, Harry, Dean, and Seamus were laughing as a bunch of Exploding Snap cards burst and landed all around Seamus's face and body. Bottles of Firewhiskey and Butterbeer were on the floor as Neville burst another round of streamers onto the ceiling.
"So, are you going to shag him?" Lavender said cheekily as Hermione gave her a cold stare. Jamie just grinned as she picked up one of the cards that had landed on her lap.
"If he plays his cards right, who knows?"
"I still think it's a bad idea," Hermione said as Daphne scoffed.
"Well, you Gryffindor girls are such prudes. Us Slytherins have all done it."
"Forgive us for not being sluts, Daphne," Ginny said as she glowered at the smug Slytherin girl.
"Yeah, you should call yourself Slutherins!" Luna said as the rest of the girls looked at her before bursting into laughter with Daphne giving Luna a wide smirk. Before Daphne could retort, a loud bang was heard as the door to the room was flung open.
Ron Weasley stood there, fuming with rage as he made a beeline towards Dean. With unbelievable strength, Ron grabbed his roommate up to his feet before shoving him on the floor.
"What the fuck!" Dean said as he crashed onto the floor. Seamus went to check on his friend while Harry stood stunned. Neville, however, was on his feet holding Ron back as best as he could.
"Ron!" Jamie and Ginny cried in unison. Ron whirled around to face his little sister. His nostrils were flaring as his eyes threw daggers at Ginny.
"Why don't you tell me? What the fuck is this?" Ron said as he threw the bag towards Ginny. The contents of the bag spilled out on the floor. Ginny gasped as she realized what Ron was pointing to. She immediately turned to Harry whose eyes widened in realization at what Ron had brought with him.
"Listen Ron…" Ginny said but before she could make another sound, Ron yelled in her face.
"DON'T YOU LISTEN RON ME! EXPLAIN YOURSELF!" Ron roared as Dean got up to shove Ron only to be held by Seamus.
"DON'T YOU SHOUT AT MY GIRLFRIEND!"
"I'LL DEAL WITH MY SISTER ANY WAY I SEE FIT! FUCK OFF, THOMAS! THIS IS YOUR FAULT."
"Ginny, is this pregnancy kit test yours?" Seamus said as he let Dean go before picking it up from the floor.
"What? Pregnant?" Dean said as he turned to Ginny in shock. Ginny, however, was trying hard not to cry.
"Ron, please remain calm," Jamie said as she rushed to her feet to calm her boyfriend down. Harry looked between Ginny and Ron, unsure of getting involved. Daphne, Luna, Lavender, and Parvati had all retreated to the other end of the room. Hermione stared at Ginny and then back at Ron. Ron whose face was not only red but tears had started to streak down his face. Ron, whose sister meant the world to him. Ron, who felt betrayed by his sister and would blame himself even though it was not his fault. Ron, who was clearly hurting right now.
"It's mine," Hermione said in a clear voice, causing Ron to looked at her with surprise while the rest turned to her in shock.
"Hermione…" Ginny started to speak but Hermione put her hand up to silence her.
"I asked Ginny to hold it for me because I was afraid that I might lose it. I got it for me and Harry."
"Me and you?" Harry said, flabbergasted at what Hermione was saying.
"Yes." Hermione sighed as she dove deeper into her lie. "I thought maybe it's time for me to try out new things now that I'm in a relationship with Harry. You guys know what I'm talking about. But since it's going to be my first time, I wanted to be prepared. And you know how much I suck at charms. So, I decided to go about using Muggle means."
"So, you went out to buy birth control pills, condoms, and a pregnancy kit test?" Ron said slowly, not believing a word Hermione was saying.
"I wanted to be prepared!" Hermione said as she shrugged her shoulders. "Think about it, Ron. Your sister is a Pure-blood. She would only know contraceptives via magical means. Us Muggleborns would get Muggle ones. I wanted to surprise Harry once we do it. Sorry, Ginny. I didn't know that this would happen." Hermione said as she glanced at Ginny who gave her a guilty yet grateful passing nod.
The reaction was immediate. Dean looked overwhelmed with relief while Seamus started to hoot loudly. The girls walked towards Hermione to prod her for more details while Harry strode to his girlfriend to give her a hug. Neville had released Ron from his grip as Ron stood there processing what had just happened. Ginny walked over to her brother.
"Listen, Ron..."
"Ginny, I'm so sorry. I'm so, so sorry!" Ron said as he pulled his sister into a hug. Ginny hugged her brother back just as hard.
"I'm such a prat! I promise I wouldn't be like this but I haven't been thinking straight and I just assumed the worst. Please, please forgive me!"
Ginny pulled away and gave her brother a smile. "Of course, I forgive you. Don't be mad at yourself. You're always watching out for me."
"And Dean?" Ron said as he walked to his roommate. "I'm so sorry for shoving you."
Dean broke out in laughter as he pulled Ron into a bear hug. "We're good, mate. I'm just glad that no one is pregnant!"
"Okay, so let's get this party back on track!" Seamus yelled as he jumped on his bed while the others cheered around. "Someone break out the Butterbeer! We have a lot to celebrate. Ron!"
Ron turned towards Seamus upon hearing his name.
"Where's the food, mate?"
"Dobby will bring it right up."
"Excellent!" Seamus said as he ran towards Harry and Hermione and pulled Harry into a bear hug. Jamie had run towards Hermione to give her one herself. Ron looked at Dean and Ginny who were now cuddling together on Dean's bed. From across the room of people, Ron locked eyes with Hermione. Hermione gave Ron a doleful smile before winking at him as she nodded her head towards Jamie who was now chattering with the girls while Daphne poked fun at the pills. Doing his best to smile back, Ron turned around towards the door.
"Where are you going, mate?" Harry called out as Ron turned back to face him.
"I got to go to McGonagall." Ron lied as he smiled at Harry. "Prefect's stuff."
"Wait, Ron! I'll go too!" Hermione said as she walked towards him. Ron took a few steps back as she approached, putting on his best smile.
"It's okay! McGonagall just wants to see me. I'll be back very soon!" Ron said as he took a few steps towards the door before Hermione grabbed him by the shoulders and spun him around.
"Are you okay?"
"Yeah, just embarrassed. Sorry for exposing you."
"It's okay. Just a misunderstanding. Don't worry about it."
Ron and Hermione stood there in silence before Ron turned to place his hand on the doorknob. Turning around, Ron looked at Hermione.
"Can I ask you something?"
"Sure!"
"Are you happy?"
Hermione let out a sigh as she turned to face Jamie who was waving at Ron and Hermione before looking at Harry who was motioning for her to join him. She thought about Jamie's story about Ron's amazing kiss and how she felt that Ron was the one for her. Thinking about her friendship with Ron, it took everything in Hermione's power to push all thoughts of Ron and her out even if it was for a brief moment.
"I think I am. No wait, I'm happy." Hermione sighed as she faced him.
"Then I'm happy for you. Thanks for your advice and help for me and Jamie. We could have never gotten together without you." Ron said as he left the room. Hermione watched his red hair disappear from her sight before sighing out loud and turning back to join the party.
Once out of sight, Ron ran down the stairs and through the common room. Pushing through the Fat Lady's portrait, Ron didn't stop running until he reached the staircase that led to the Astronomy tower. Running up the steps, Ron didn't stop to take a breath until he reached the balcony. The very same place that he and Hermione had decided to start over. Where he and Hermione had made plans to rebuild their friendship and work together to achieve their goals. Which they did. Ron was with Jamie and Hermione had gotten Harry as well as improved her studies. Everything was in tandem, each event working perfectly until Ron realized he had fallen for Hermione.
At that moment, Ron felt it. What he comforted other students whenever they had their hearts broken. Ron felt the pain pierce through his heart as the thought of Hermione losing her virginity to Harry played over and over in his mind. Ron felt the anguish spread to every part of his body as he begged for his body to be numb over the excruciating pain that was boring into every niche and crevice in his mind, body, and heart. Ron realized that the reason he could only sympathise and not empathise was because he never felt pain like this before. The pain of watching the person you love go after somewhere else. Someone who was more perfect than you. He understood what Michael Corner must have felt. What Roger Davies was so worked up about and what Hermione probably would feel if Harry ever fell for someone else.
And for the first time in his seven years at Hogwarts, Ron let his emotions take over as he broke down in tears.
….
So that's it for now. For my Hinny fans, I brought in some Hinny action for you. Don't feel too bad for Ron and Hermione though. As Shakespeare said, the course of true love never did run smooth. Things are just heating up.
Love you all and if you choose to leave a review, I would very much appreciate it so. Thank you!