Chapter 11 – Reconciling in Oz
Twenty minutes later, they arrived at the Grangers' flat and Ron squeezed Hermione's hand as they made their way to the door. Before they reached it, the door opened and Mr. Granger stood, waiting for them.
"Hello Hermione. Come in. Your mother and I both need to talk to you."
Hermione nodded and made her way inside with the others following. They returned to the living room and Mrs. Granger was waiting. As Hermione approached, her mother reached to her and soon the two women were hugging. Mr. Granger still looked upset, but he was calmer than the day before and Ron felt a glimmer of hope. The family made their way back to the same seats they had occupied the previous day, while the Aurors remained in the hall and Mr. Granger took the initiative to begin.
"Hermione, your mother and I have been talking since you left yesterday. Obviously we are still in shock, but I do wish to apologize for my rash behavior. You know that I have never taken surprises well. We still can't believe that you hid details of this upcoming war from us for five years, but now we'd like more details on the last year we missed. You gave us a summary yesterday, but we want to hear it all. Please, do not hide anything from us."
Hermione nodded and then called the Aurors into the room.
"Greg, Art, there is a lot more to the story than you have heard. Your actions in the past days assure me that you can be trusted. I know you are also bound by the Auror code. That said, I have to ask that what is discussed here never be spoken of or documented, unless one of us or Kingsley Shacklebolt gives you leave to do so. Will you take a blood vow to do this?"
Art's jaw dropped, but Greg just nodded. They both extended their hands and Hermione drew her wand, cast a quick spell and sliced each of their palms. The Grangers looked on, shocked as she initiated the vow.
"Do you, Greg Daniels and Arthur Jameson, on pain of death and adhering to your vows as Aurors, swear that what is about to be disclosed to you will remain within your own memories, not to be recorded, committed or transmitted in any way without leave of Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley, Harry Potter, or Kingsley Shacklebolt?"
"So do I swear."
"Yes, I swear."
Hermione waved her wand and finished the spell by dipping it briefly in the blood on Greg's hand. A light flared over the wand and his hand, then she repeated the same on Art's hand. With that complete, she turned and placed several heavy wards around the room. Greg's eyes got huge as he watched her work. When she finished, he gaped at her.
"Hermione, what the hell do they teach at Hogwarts? I understood that you hadn't even completed NEWTs yet."
"Well, I've done some individual studies in certain key areas over the last year."
Ron snorted. "She's also the brightest witch of our class and one of the brightest in school history, according to Professor McGonagall."
Hermione shrugged and turned back to her parents, who had remained quiet and displayed a strange mix of awe and fear.
"Mum, dad, it's alright. I just needed to put these protections in place before I tell you everything. I felt the blood vow was necessary to keep Greg and Art from having to disclose the details as part of their jobs. Please don't look so terrified, none of this is dark magic."
"Sorry dear, but this is all new. We've only seen you do a bit of magic when you came back after your sixth year. Before that you were underage and banned. It's just all a bit much in addition to everything else."
"I understand mum. Now, let's all sit down and Ron and I will tell you the whole story, starting from the time of Bill and Fleur's wedding last summer."
Hermione and Ron spent over an hour detailing everything of the time they were on the run, Tom Riddle's history, the horcrux hunt, the hallows, Malfoy Manor, and finally the Battle of Hogwarts. The previous day, Hermione had remained purposefully vague on the horcruxes and hadn't spoken of the hallows at all, now it was time for the whole story. No one else interrupted them and when they finished, Hermione sank back against Ron's chest and asked if anyone had questions. The room remained silent for a few minutes until Art spoke up.
"Crikey you two. What was reported in the papers wasn't half of what you and Harry did. I don't think the Order of Merlin is close to enough. I certainly appreciate now why we were explicitly told to offer you every assistance possible. Our grandchildren will be thanking you."
"Order of Merlin? Is that an award?"
"Yes Mr. Granger. It's not something we asked for, but the Ministry didn't ask our opinion. All combatants in the Battle of Hogwarts are being awarded the Order of Merlin, Third Class. Members of the Order of the Phoenix are being awarded the Second Class and the three of us are being awarded the First Class award. The ceremony is on August 1st."
"Wow, alright. So it's a medal of some kind?"
"Yes dad, we will receive a ribbon and a medal that I guess we will need to wear at future functions. The award also brings 5000 galleons each and we will be able to sit on the Wizengamot when we reach maturity plus ten years, that is at the age of 27. The Wizengamot is like a small Parliament within the Ministry. They vote on far reaching policy decisions and also preside over significant criminal trials."
"And Hermione will be the first muggleborn witch to ever sit the Wizengamot."
Mr. Granger shook his head and seemed to have forgotten his next question, so Mrs. Granger spoke up instead.
"Ron, you said you lost a brother in the battle. How are your parents doing?"
Ron sighed. "We're all muddling along. Keeping busy helps. Dad has a lot to do at the Ministry. Mum is taking it the hardest. She had a breakdown and was in the hospital for a week. We thought she was doing better, but she lost it again this past weekend. Dad took a sabbatical and they're at a clinic on the Greek island of Karpathos."
Thinking of Fred, Ron couldn't help himself as the tears started. This time it was Hermione's turn to comfort him as she pulled his head down and stroked his hair. The others in the room let them settle and didn't say anything. When he had collected himself and sat up, it was Mr. Granger who looked at him with compassion.
"Well, I still can't say that I'm happy with what has happened, but I understand a bit better now. It's hard to believe that my barely legal daughter and her friends have gone through all you have. I wish you would have found a different way to protect us. Still, there have been unexpected benefits."
As he said the last, Mr. Granger turned to his wife and placed his hand on her belly.
"Mum, that's something I've been wondering. I thought you took care of not having more kids. Not that I'm not thrilled. Shocked at first for sure, but I'm curious."
"Um, I think this part is a family discussion now. Art and I will be in the hall."
The two Aurors left and Mrs. Granger smiled at her daughter, then turned and traded a knowing look with her husband.
"Well, you're right that we had decided to not have anymore, except that we didn't remember that. When we arrived here as Wendell and Monica we were a bit confused. We had most of our memories of being dentists in England, but there were gaps. We spent the first weeks just being tourists and every time I saw a small child, there was something in me that cried out. Your father and I talked and we had no idea why we had never had children. I thought that with the memory gaps, maybe I had lost a child and that was the reason for my feelings. Not long after that your father was in an accident. We were out biking and a car turned right into his path. He had a broken arm and also sustained a groin injury. When he went to the urologist after the accident, we found out that he had had a vasectomy. Somehow that memory was gone and we were confused as to why he had one. When the urologist had to repair a small tear from the accident, he offered to reverse it for us. We actually didn't even think about it too much, we just told him to go ahead. He warned us that there were no guarantees, but obviously it worked. Of course now we're worried about complications like what I had with you. It seems strange now that we have our memories back to think that you will be almost twenty when this one comes along. I'm glad you're happy about it."
"Well, I didn't fully appreciate the consequences of what a memory modification on the level that I performed would entail. I'm just glad that you're back now. I know it hasn't been long for you to consider everything, but I'd like to be a part of your lives and I'd like a chance to be a big sister. I've waited a long time."
Mrs. Granger smiled as Mr. Granger spoke up again.
"Hermione, honestly when we called you here today I was still unsure what I wanted to do. Now that I've heard the full story, I think I'd be open to working on our relationship. You haven't really been our daughter for a number of years. We also have to decide if we want to stay here or return to England. That will take some more thought and discussion. In the meantime, I'd like to get to know my daughter as an adult. I feel like I haven't really known you since you were about twelve. And from the looks of things, I think I should get to know Ron as well. How long will you be in Australia?"
"That sounds good dad. We hadn't planned a definite time. We have to be back by the first for the ceremony. And Ginny's birthday is on the eleventh. It's her seventeenth, so there will be a big celebration."
"Well, then we have some time. To start, how about dinner tonight at one of our favorite spots just up the street?"
"And maybe before that we can go by the gallery and I can show you my paintings?"
"Both sound great, let me just check with Greg and Art."
Hermione called the Aurors back in the room and discussed the plans for the afternoon and evening. They agreed, as long as they could shadow and provide security. The Grangers seemed a bit taken aback at the idea, until Greg explained.
"Mr. and Mrs. Granger, Hermione and Ron are two of the most recognizable people in the wizarding world and not just in England. Before their travel was arranged, we tracked down and captured two Death Eaters that had fled to this country. That's the main reason why it was over a month after the battle before they came to find you. The two of us have been assigned the personal duty to see to their safety in country. We also have a number of other individuals who are on constant watch with us, one of which is stationed outside on the street right now. The battle has been won, but that doesn't mean the fanatics are all gone. In fact, just yesterday morning we were subjected to an isolated attack. No one was injured, partly thanks to Ron's quick reflexes."
"Yet something else I didn't realize. Although I suppose it's not surprising. The end of war rarely brings an end to all troubles."
With the plans for the rest of the day decided, the Aurors went back to the hall while the Grangers, Hermione and Ron gathered themselves and prepared to leave. Hermione had shrugged off her coat and Ron held it as she put it back on. Then she turned and kissed him deeply, pulling him close. Ron looked over her head and saw Mr. Granger had returned to the room and was grimacing at them.
"Alright, I guess we need to clear the air on something else. Ron, just how serious are you about my daughter?"
"Mr. Granger, I love Hermione. She is my inspiration, my reason to try to be better at everything I do. She has been for a long time, even if I didn't realize it."
Hermione smiled and kissed him again, leaving no doubt what her thoughts were. Mrs. Granger had joined them and her face lit up when she saw them. Mr. Granger was not as amused.
"Okay, I see how she feels. Let me be blunt. Are you sleeping with my daughter?"
"NEIL!"
"Jean, I'm a father, it's my right to ask."
Hermione was about to speak, but Ron stopped her.
"Mr. Granger, we promised to be completely truthful from now on. The answer is yes. We are very in love."
Mr. Granger got red and then let out a large puff of air.
"Damn, alright, fine. Thank you for being honest. I'm not happy, but obviously that doesn't matter. You take care of her though and if you hurt her, I'll make apologies to your parents afterward."
Ron nodded, took Hermione's arm and followed her parents out of the flat. Their first stop was the gallery, where Jean showed off her paintings. It was obvious from the way she spoke that her passion was truly in art. Next, they proceeded to a modest restaurant that specialized in local cuisine. Although Greg and Art tried to wait in the lobby, the Grangers refused and the two Aurors joined them. The restaurant featured a number of items that were quite exotic to Hermione and Ron, although they bravely tried everything. Hermione wasn't fond of the crocodile fritters, finding them too tough. She surprised herself though and actually enjoyed kangaroo, even though the idea had initially put her off. They also sampled a couple of bottles of Australian wine, which helped to loosen everyone. Greg and Art reluctantly passed on the wine, insisting that they were actually on duty. When the check arrived, Hermione snatched it and refused to let her father argue as she paid for the meal. They left the restaurant and wandered back to the Grangers' flat, discussing the next day. Neil had already advised the clinic that he would be unavailable for a couple of days and Jean had arranged a few days off at the gallery. After a bit of discussion, they decided to take a drive into the Blue Mountains, an area that had become a favorite spot for the Grangers. Since Greg and Art also insisted on following, they advised that they would bring a Land Rover from the Ministry. They arrived back at the flat and said good night. Jean hugged both Hermione and Ron and then Neil stepped forward and hugged his daughter for the first time since they had reunited. Once they left the flat, Hermione turned to Greg and he agreed to let them apparate back to the hotel.
Meanwhile, Neil and Jean Granger proceeded through their flat and to their bedroom. Neil drew his wife a bath and helped her into the tub. In the last month her back had started aching more and the bath had become a nightly ritual. He admired her body as she climbed in. She may have been forty three, but she looked ten years younger. And then there was her now very noticeable small bulge, the ultimate indication of just how in love they still were. As she slipped into the water, he lowered the cover on the loo and sat down to talk to her.
"Quite a day, huh dear?"
"Yes, although it went better than I thought it would. Thank you for keeping an open mind with them."
"Hell, I was so mad yesterday and even quite mad this morning, but after hearing what they went through, it's hard to remain angry. I'm still not happy that my life has been completely rearranged by our daughter's amazing and unique talents. I suppose though that I prefer sitting here watching you grow another child than possibly sitting in a dungeon, tortured or dead."
"It's also quite amazing the woman, or should I say witch, that our daughter has grown up to be. It's not surprising that Ron would be impressed with her, he's obviously besotted. What was surprising was watching the Aurors reaction to them. My understanding is that they're something like special forces and the admiration they show is stunning. Not to mention the fact that the Ministry thinks highly enough of them that they'll be receiving those awards. I know we still need to discuss what we want to do long term, but I'd like to attend the awards ceremony. What do you think?"
Neil agreed and they continued discussing their long term decisions until the bath water cooled and Jean declared herself well soaked. Neil helped her out of the tub and then began to towel her off. With her pregnancy hormones raging, she immediately demanded more from him. Needing little convincing, he carried her swiftly to bed. When they were both completely satisfied, Neil Granger's last thought before sleeping was just how incredible it was that they were still so totally in love after over twenty years.
The next day dawned and Hermione and Ron were down in the lobby at eight. Greg and Art greeted them and the four of them made their way to the restaurant. As they ate a simple breakfast of scones and fruit, Hermione posed a question that she had been wondering.
"Greg, Art, we really appreciate your help over the last few days and especially with the attack, but I would think that your obligation is done. I know the Ministry is worried about security, but if we are staying in country for a while I hardly think the Auror department wants to be playing tourist with us. You have to have more important duties. We'll be careful, although I still think the incident a couple of days ago was an isolated one."
Greg normally took the lead, but this time it was Art who spoke up quickly.
"You may be right, but I don't bloody well care. Greg can speak for himself, but as for me, I'm staying with the two of you and the Grangers until you leave the country. After everything I've learned in the past days, it's a pittance compared to what you've done. My bosses agree, which is nice, but if I had to I'd take leave and use my personal time to help you."
"I'm with Art on this. Anyway, after the Death Eaters were caught, the department calmed down. And we don't have the shortages that you have in England. So, I'm afraid you're stuck with us."
Hermione nodded while Ron thanked them. All three men made a point to not notice the tears that she was just barely holding back. After breakfast they claimed the Ministry Land Rover and made their way to pick up the Grangers. Neil asked to drive and took them along a route that he and Jean favorited into the Blue Mountains. Once they reached the mountains, they pulled off at a number of overlooks to take in the views. Along with painting, Jean enjoyed photography and had a large Nikon SLR that fascinated Ron. At each stop when she would take pictures, she made a point of explaining the shot and how the camera worked before then giving Ron a chance to take some pictures of his own. Hermione smiled, watching the friendship growing between the two of them.
As he drove, Neil kept up a steady conversation detailing a lot of the sightseeing that the Grangers had done in the year they had been in country. It was obvious that they had grown to love Australia and Hermione wondered if they would indeed be willing to return to England. The drive also gave everyone a chance to get to know the two Aurors better. While Greg and Art were officially on duty, they were relaxed during the drive, only putting their guard up when the group stopped and joined a larger crowd. They found out that Greg was 30 and Art was older than he appeared at 27. Both were officially unattached, but Hermione had a suspicion that Greg was more serious than he pretended when he discussed another wizard at the Ministry and claimed they were best mates. Not that she or Ron much cared, over the past couple of days the two Aurors had become friends more than colleagues or professional acquaintances.
After a couple of hours drive with a number of scenic stops, they reached the Three Sisters and went for a long walk around to check the famous site. Greg and Art were on full alert, as were Hermione and Ron at the beginning. Once it was obvious that the only threat was a particularly pushy group of teenage tourists, everyone relaxed and took in the breathtaking scenery. After the Three Sisters, they decided to stop in Katoomba and look around, finding a lively pub where they enjoyed a remarkably fine lunch. Greg and Art even conceded that one pint wouldn't dull them for duties and indulged a bit.
After lunch and looking around, they continued on to the edge of town and decided to take a ride on the scenic incline railway. Ron looked dubious at first, but Hermione's enthusiasm dampened his fears and he found that he actually enjoyed the ride and the views as they ascended. He and Jean both took a number of photos and she promised him copies to show his dad. She even let him take some detailed images of the tracks and the mechanics of the railway. After browsing through the tourist shop at the top and taking in more views, they rode the railway back down and decided to head back into Sydney via a secondary road that would offer additional highlights. As Neil drove and the discussion in the car continued, Hermione felt she and her parents were finally getting to really know each other and her view of who her parents were was shifting from the idealized images of her childhood.
When they arrived back in Sydney it was late afternoon and still too early for dinner. Jean suggested that they go for a swim at a club the Grangers belonged to. Hermione hesitated and Ron knew what the issue was. Reaching for her hand, he replied to her concern.
"Mya, it will be fine. We'll use glamor charms."
Hermione nodded hesitantly and then saw her parents looking at her. She knew that another explanation was in order and took a deep breath, but the words seemed to stick in her throat. Jean looked at her daughter with concern.
"Hermione, what is it? You used to love to swim. When you were little, we called you our little fish. I can remember more than one temper tantrum you threw when we tried to leave the pool."
"Mum, it's just…I'm a bit self-conscious now… I…um…I have scars."
Neil startled, hit the brake and looked in the mirror at his daughter. He didn't say anything as he recovered and continued driving, but Jean reached back to Hermione and put a hand on her knee.
"Oh, alright dear, I guess I shouldn't be surprised. If you don't want to swim, we'll do something else."
"What? No. I suppose this is something else I need to get over. Why don't we stop at the hotel so Ron and I can collect our things."
They made their way to the Hilton and Art decided to stay with the Land Rover while Hermione, Ron, and the Grangers went upstairs with Greg shadowing them. They reached the suite and Greg ran the usual sensing charms to make sure the suite was empty and safe. The Grangers stood quietly, realizing that there was still a potential for danger. Hermione had been quiet for a while and, as she approached the bedroom with Ron, turned to her parents.
"Mum, dad, why don't you come. This is part of the honesty we agreed to. You need to see what we've been through."
Jean clutched her husband's hand and nodded as they proceeded into the bedroom. Once there, Hermione and Ron looked at each other and each nodded as they began to strip. Neil startled at first, when Ron turned to him.
"Mr. Granger, we've already admitted to you how serious we are. I could draw you a diagram of every scar on Hermione and she could do the same for me, but perhaps it would be better to just show you."
Neil nodded as Ron finished pulling off his long sleeve tee, displaying the scars across his arms and chest from his battle with the brains. Then he dropped his pants and stood in his boxers at the same time Hermione finished and stood in her bra and knickers. Jean looked at her daughter and a sob escaped her as Neil grabbed her and gave up holding back his own tears. Ron stepped to Hermione's side and ran his fingers across the still pink gouges directly above her breasts, across her side and above her bellybutton. Then he turned her around to show the gouges across her shoulder blades and back. Then he pulled her into a tight hug as he explained.
"Most of the scars are from the crucio torture at Malfoy Manor. The healers did what they could, but dark magic leaves lasting scars. It's only been a little over a month, so they should fade more. These scars here and here are from Bellatrix's knife. Since they are more mundane, they will eventually fade more than the others."
Jean stepped forward and Ron released his grip on Hermione as her mother reached out to trace the scars, tears pouring down her face.
"Ron, you said the person who did this, she was killed?"
"Yes, my mother killed her during the final battle."
"Good. I'll need to thank your mother when I see her next time."
As Jean continued to stare at Hermione's scars, Neil spoke up.
"Ron, what about your scars? Some of those look different, almost like burns but not quite."
"Yes, these rippled scars are from the Battle at the Department of Mysteries after my fifth year. I fell into a collection of brains that were being preserved for study. They were from dark wizards whose magic the Unspeakables were studying and preserving the brains for. The tentacles latched onto me and caused these scars before we could detach them. The pink scar across my thigh is from the final battle. I didn't turn fast enough at one point."
The four of them stood for a couple more minutes before Hermione collected herself.
"Well, now that you've seen, maybe we should get changed and head back to your flat."
The Grangers nodded and left the bedroom. When they arrived back in the living room, Greg saw the look on their faces and dropped the magazine he was reading.
"Neil? Jean? Was it that bad?"
Neil nodded. "I understand now. More than when they told us the details of everything. My god."
The Grangers sank onto the couch and Greg went to the bar and poured a couple of glasses of wine. Neil and Jean took them gratefully. A few minutes later, Hermione and Ron joined them. They had their swimming attire on under their clothes from earlier. The Grangers finished their wine and they made their way back downstairs to where Art was waiting. Next, they stopped at the Grangers' flat and then proceeded to the swim club. When Hermione peeled off her outer layer, Greg and Art shielded her and Ron so that he could cast the glamor charms on her back and neck. The rest of the scars were hidden by her one piece suit. With that done, she was able to relax and enjoy the swim. Ron had seen her swim in the pond and lake, but never tired of watching her lithe ability in the water. He understood why she had been called her parents' little fish.
After a good long swim, they made their way back to the flat and the Grangers ordered pizza. Over dinner, they made plans for the following day and Hermione and Ron left early shortly after eight. The Grangers had made enough progress in their feelings that they even agreed to let Hermione and Ron apparate straight from the flat. They landed in their hotel room and Hermione grabbed Ron, swinging around and beginning to dance. He chuckled at her and swung her around as he leaned in for a kiss.
"Wasn't it a great day Ron?"
"Mhmm yes. I enjoyed the time with your parents much more than I thought I would. I think being completely honest helped. Even though it was hard."
"I suppose I should have been honest sooner, but I was so scared they would take me away from magic. And from you and Harry."
"Well, that's past. Let's focus on now."
"Oh, and what exactly did you want to do right now Mr. Weasley?"
"Hmm, well first I thought I'd strip you down, then I think I'll spend a few hours shagging you senseless in so many different positions that you won't be able to walk straight tomorrow."
"Oh really? Promise?"
Ron growled and started to make good on his promise as he unbuttoned her shirt. She was still wearing her magically dried swimsuit underneath and he ran his hands down the smooth material, lingering over her breasts and squeezing her hard nipples. Then he reached down to unbutton her pants and drop them to the floor, leaving just the swimsuit. As he dipped his head to her breasts, she pushed him back and yanked his shirt off. As she ran her fingers through the light golden red hairs on his chest, he pulled the straps of the suit down to expose her magnificent breasts with their beautiful pink nipples that waited for his attention. As he suckled, he maneuvered them across the living room to the couch. When Hermione unbuckled his pants and his jeans dropped, he responded by yanking the rest of the swimsuit down and then turning her in one quick move as he bent her over the arm of the sofa. Reaching down, he spread her legs further apart as she moaned in anticipation. He massaged her cheeks for a minute before slowly sliding one finger deep into her dripping core, eliciting a loud sigh. As one hand pleasured her, his other hand yanked his trunks down and freed his pulsing cock. Without warning he removed the finger and plunged his entire length into her as she screamed in surprise.
"Fuuuccck Ron! Oh fuck yes, so fucking big! Gah, I love how you fill me. Pleeease make me come."
Hearing her spout profanity was one of Ron's greatest pleasures as he smiled and began to slowly build a rhythm. As she demanded more, he increased his speed until he was pounding her relentlessly. In just a couple of minutes she climaxed as her body jerked and almost slid off the couch. Ron grabbed her and held on, continuing to work her through the orgasm, extending her pleasure until he joined her, coating her insides with his love. As his knees buckled, he grabbed her and slid them down to the floor where they lay on the carpet, panting and recovering from the first round of the night. Despite his release, Ron didn't soften immediately and Hermione leaned over and took his semi-erect member into her mouth before he had fully recovered. She relished the mixed taste of both their fluids on him and alternated between licking his head and taking him as deep down her throat as she could. Soon her expert sucking had him back at full attention and she looked up at him with a mischievous grin. She crawled back up his body and kissed him deeply, while carefully positioning him near her entrance. Then, with one quick move, she sat back, grabbed his cock and settled herself on him. Ron hissed and his eyes briefly rolled back at the sudden sensation of being buried bollocks deep in her heat once again. Then his eyes opened to watch the show as she began to ride him in practiced, rolling motions. As her breaths became shallower and her next orgasm neared, her rhythm increased and changed as she began to bounce rapidly on his shaft, begging for another release. When she came, it was with a howl that made Ron wonder if the wards on the suite would hold. As her muscles gripped him, he was close but still hadn't come. When she released the grip just a bit, he flipped them so that he was hovering over her. Grabbing her legs, he placed a foot on each of his shoulders as he drove deeper into her, each pounding stroke hitting her cervix and causing a small scream. When he reached his release, she joined him as her eyes flew open and then shut as her body convulsed and she passed out. Ron collapsed for a few minutes and waited for her to come to. Once he felt her stir, he stood and picked her up off the rug. Carrying her to the bedroom, he placed her on the bed and began kissing her again.
Sometime a couple of hours later they both finally fell asleep for the night. When Hermione woke the next morning she checked the clock and saw it was already a few minutes after seven and they were due to meet her parents downstairs at the hotel restaurant for breakfast at eight. She had wanted a long soak after the night's endeavors, but knew she would have to opt for a shower instead. As she climbed out of bed, Ron groaned and she leaned over to kiss him.
"Ron, it's after seven. I'm going for the first shower and then you should hurry up. We need to be downstairs at eight."
"Mmm, maybe we just shower together."
"As much as I'd love that, there's no way we'd make breakfast in time. And I have to say, I'm a bit sore right now. I need some time to recover."
"Well I did promise you that last night."
Hermione chuckled, gave him one more kiss and then headed for the shower. Ron behaved and followed after her, although he did make a couple of lewd suggestions as he passed her in the bathroom and she was mightily tempted to skip breakfast. Still, they managed to make it downstairs by only a few minutes after eight. Greg and Art were waiting and joined them and the Grangers for breakfast before heading out for a day at the zoo. Since it was a Monday, the zoo was not crowded and they spent another pleasurable day together. After the zoo, Hermione asked for a quick stop on the way to dinner. They found a post office and she and Ron wrote a brief note to Harry that they then sent on via two day airmail. With that done, they proceeded to dinner. As the conversation progressed throughout the evening, Neil brought up the subject of plans.
"Hermione, your mum and I have been enjoying these last couple days, but tomorrow I have to return to the clinic for a day. They desperately need me to fill in since three others have had family emergencies. One will be back Wednesday and another on Thursday, so I should be freed up again after that."
"That's fine dad, I understand. I just appreciate the time we've had together. What are you doing mum?"
"Actually dear, we have a gallery function tomorrow evening and I need to spend most of the day helping to set up."
"Well, do you need help? I don't know what Ron wants to do, but I'm willing."
"Me too. Need a big strong bloke to help with anything?"
"Actually, yes we may. It really would be great to have you help. Normally I would have been preparing several days in advance for one of these."
"Well then, it's decided. Tomorrow we all take a break from our tourist's idyll and get some work done. That does bring up another topic. Ron, Hermione, have you decided how long you're going to stay?"
"Not exactly dad. Honestly, I'm conflicted. I love being here with you, but I miss Harry and everyone back home."
"Well, that's to be expected dear. You haven't talked too much about Harry. How is he doing?"
"Depends on the day. Sometimes it depends on the hour. Like all of us, he does better if he keeps busy. He still has crazy ideas and guilt about wishing he had acted faster, sooner, whatever, thinking maybe so many wouldn't have died. Everyone in the house tells him different and gets on his case when he starts to get morose. Ginny of course has been the biggest help for him."
"Ginny? That's your sister, right Ron? Did she fight also?"
"Yes, Ginny is my younger sister. She was part of the resistance the last year at school. Her and Neville revived Dumbledore's Army. While we were on the run, they were going through hell. Ginny may be the youngest, but she's a powerful witch. She's the seventh child and the first daughter in seven generations. Harry has his hands full with her. Not that he minds, my best mate is completely blind when it comes to my baby sister."
"Wow, so she's only sixteen and already led a resistance movement and fought in a war?"
"Yes, that's part of the reason dad gave in and acknowledged her and Harry's relationship. After everything that's happened, she doesn't deserve to have her family complaining about her falling in love. I had a hard time with it at first, but I couldn't pick a better wizard for her. Still, I was a bit shocked when dad took mum to the retreat and gave her the okay to move in with us and stay with Harry."
"Move in with us? You mentioned a house as well. Are you living with Harry?"
"I guess we forgot to fill you in on what's been happening since the battle. The surviving members of Dumbledore's Army all went home for a week until the memorial. Most of us have parents at home who were so happy we were alive that they decided to smother us. It's a bit hard when you've been on the run on your own for nearly a year to come home and have mum try to do your laundry and tell you when curfew is. We all wanted to help with the rebuilding of the school as well and most parents thought it was too dangerous. A lot of us just needed our space. Harry's godfather left him a mansion in London with eight bedrooms. It's in need of some remodeling, but it's habitable, so he opened the doors to whoever needed a place. We now have fourteen of us living at Grimmauld Place and another eight or so that drop in regularly. It's become something like an adult dorm. It's worked well, allowing us our freedom and keeping our friends close so we can support each other."
The Grangers, Greg, and Art all looked a bit startled. It was Art who broke the silence that followed.
"Crikey, with the lot of you and what you've done, that has to be the most secure house in the city."
That brought a round of laughs from the table as Hermione focused back on her father's original question.
"Dad, I know we talked about staying longer, but I think that I'd like to stay here for the rest of the week and then return home. That will give us a week left in June and five weeks until the awards ceremony. I don't know what you and mum have planned on doing yet, but maybe you could come back a week or two before then and we can spend some time together? We'll work with the Aurors and make sure the house is put right. And you can come to Grimmauld and meet everyone. Ron, does that sound alright?"
"Whatever you want Mya. Planning this trip is up to you."
"Well, I think that sounds like a good plan. Neil and I still need to decide what we want to do. For the past couple of days we've just been focusing on spending time with you."
With that decided, the discussion for the rest of the meal switched to deciding what other sights in Sydney they should see before they left. As they ate, the Grangers smirked at each other when Ron reached over and helped himself to potatoes on Hermione's plate that she had pushed aside. When dessert arrived, she declared she was too full, but Ron ordered a large brownie sundae with ice cream. When it arrived and Hermione began making eyes at his dessert, Ron just shook his head and alternated between taking bites for himself and feeding her bites. Even Greg and Art had a hard time keeping themselves from grinning at the two of them. When they finished and Neil insisted on paying, Jean declared that she needed to visit the ladies' room, grabbing her daughter on the way. When they reached the small bathroom, no one else was there. Jean went to wash her hands and check her hair, while she talked to her daughter.
"Well Hermione, that was quite the cute show you two put on tonight."
"What mum?"
Jean turned and stared at her daughter. Hermione showed absolutely no recognition.
"Oh god, you really are that far gone. You and Ron. Tonight. Eating off each other's plates. Him feeding you dessert. You're really in love aren't you?"
"Yes mum. It's strange, once the two of us finally gave in to what we've been feeling for years, everything just clicks. And I know he loves me. Ron wouldn't share his dessert with his own siblings. Years ago I didn't think he had much emotional depth, but he's developed a lot more. Actually, I think it's always been there, he just didn't show it. He can really be quite thoughtful. The night when we came and restored your memories when dad was so upset and we left quickly afterwards, I was in a horrible state. I barely remember what I was thinking, but it was like I couldn't move. Ron took me back to the hotel, got me wine, drew a bath, undressed me, put me in the tub, gave me more wine, cleaned me up, and put me to bed. I was barely conscious, but he did it all."
Hermione thought back to the loving that had followed when she had awakened later that evening and her face lit up at the memory. Jean shook her head.
"Well, I'm glad you've found someone who is good to you. I'm sure there's a reason for that silly grin as well. I guess he must be a good lover as well."
Hermione blushed and looked at her mother's curious smirk. They were still mother and daughter, but they were also two adult women.
"Yes mum, he's quite an amazing lover."
Jean smiled and gave her daughter a quick hug as they exited the bathroom. They rejoined their men and said good night, making arrangements for Hermione and Ron to meet Jean at the gallery the following morning.
The next day was spent busily preparing the gallery for a new artist introductory showing that night. The gallery owner, Lisa, was surprised to learn that Monica had a daughter, but seemed to accept the story that they had been estranged and recently reconciled. They decided though that they would not change the Grangers' identities back from the Wilkins' quite yet, needing to come up with a story to cover that. Later that evening, after a very successful opening at the gallery, they gathered at the flat with a late night order of Chinese and the subject of identities was the main topic. It was Greg who came up with the most probable solution.
"Actually, that's something I've been thinking about and discussed with several colleagues. Depending on what you decide to do, we can set about restoring your original identities with the cover story that you've been under witness protection. We've got the contacts in muggle law enforcement in both countries to produce appropriate paperwork and set everything right."
"That's brilliant Greg! Jean and I have been trying to concoct some crazy story for our friends here. We may not have decided what we're doing long term, but we don't want to break all contact."
"Well, if you like the idea, just tell me when and we'll start the paperwork."
After a bit more discussion, it was decided that they would wait a few more days until Hermione and Ron returned home. The decision and plausible resolution to restoring the Grangers' identities lightened the mood for the rest of the evening as they planned out the last couple of days of Hermione and Ron's visit.
The next day was Thursday and Neil and Jean both had to work until noon. Hermione and Ron decided to sleep in and then joined them in the afternoon. With the plans in place, Greg had worked with the Department of Magical Transportation and their portkeys were scheduled for the following Saturday evening. They spent the last couple of days with the Grangers and their two Aurors, sightseeing around Sydney.
At six in the evening on Saturday, Hermione and Ron stood in the Grangers' flat and said goodbye first to Greg and Art. The two Aurors had become good friends during their stay and promised to visit if they ever made it to England. Then Hermione spent awhile saying goodbye to her parents, before Ron made his brief goodbye. Minutes before their 6:30 portkey, Jean embraced them both and promised to see them in a few short weeks. Then Neil stepped forward and hugged his daughter before letting her go and also embracing a shocked and happy Ron. When the portkey time arrived and it began to glow, they grasped each other's hands before reaching for the old can. Seconds later, the Grangers were staring at the empty spot where they had stood moments before.
Three hours of travel later, Hermione and Ron landed back in England at the Ministry, shortly after 10:30 in the morning. Harry and Ginny were waiting for them and embraced them heartily before escorting them back to Grimmauld Place. The rest of their housemates were equally happy to see them and they spent an hour detailing everyone on what had happened before eating lunch and retiring for a much needed nap.
o-o-o-o
Well, our time in Oz took me longer than I planned, although I enjoyed the research for this one. I wanted to really explore the relationships, as well as give them a bit of vacation. I've never been to Australia, so if I have any Aussie readers that see I messed up something, please let me know. After writing this, I want to come visit even more.