Before the Storm

by whykay

Harry\'s fifth year. Voldemort is back and the supporters of the light side are in grave danger. In this story Harry wrestles with his ne *feelings* for Hermione and vice versa. Where will Ron fit in? Includes Azkaban, Death Eaters and the killing curse..

14. Chapter Fourteen

BEFORE THE STORM

Title: Before the Storm: Chapter 14

Attention all you H/H romantics (is there such a word?), this is the part you all have been waiting for! This chapter is quite long, and (hopefully) should be longer, much longer than chapter ten.

Some of you may complain that there isn't much action and adventure in this story, but trust me when the real action starts, towards the end of the year, you won't know what hit you!

There's so much to write, and I know that the first few chapters stank, and I'm not making excuses, but this is my first fan fic story, in fact it's my first attempt at any story!, but I've gotten the hang of it now and the chapter quality should improve towards the end of the story

The time frame for this story is from mid November to Christmas Eve.]

Chapter Fourteen

The days passed by, the Quidditch Pitch was now blanketed with snow, and as November passed and December arrived. Suddenly Christmas spirit was in the air, and Harry looked forward to it, he needed some rest and fun these days and what better time to do that than Christmas?

Harry's Auror lessons were going well too, he had fewer exercises to do now, that winter had arrived but Moody still made him do several laps around the lake everyday, even during schooldays. Ron and Hermione would have liked to come with him, but Ron had nearly fainted with horror when he realized that Harry was doing not one, not two but SIX laps around the lake.

Harry had now progressed very far in his 'extra' lessons; he had completed common charms and curses, dark magical artefacts, useful potions, and then he had progressed to all the charms and curses he would need when he duelled the Death Eaters or Voldemort himself. The fact that Moody was talking in certainties did nothing to alleviate Harry's nervousness.

Harry could see that Moody was pleased by his progress as was Dumbeldore, and he strived harder to please him. He had already begun Apparation, and was progressing well in that as well. They had to leave the Hogwarts grounds to practice, and Harry was reminded of Hermione quoting from Hogwarts a History, "Ron you know that you can't apparate inside and out of the Hogwarts premises…"

Hermione! There was the foundation of Harry's troubles; he had been slightly upset when Hermione and Ron had disappeared into the gardens on the night of the Halloween ball, probably to snog each others brains out, he had thought bitterly. Then he was instantly ashamed of the thought. If he could only tell her how he felt…

True, there had been very little signs of a secret relationship between Ron and Hermione, and if there was, he wished that they would tell him and get it over with. He could hardly ask them, they would be the first to deny it, but he wondered that, deep down inside him, whether he was scared to ask the question and get an affirmative answer…

He knew it was stupid, holding on to scraps of hope, hoping that one day they would be together, for he knew that he never would get the guts to tell her. In as much it was just like Cho and Cedric last year… He sincerely hoped that this year wouldn't end like the last one…

******

For the first time since Harry arrived at Hogwarts, Snape was actually late for their Potions lesson, which was the last one for the day. So, in fact, was Hermione. Before they had made their way out of lunch, Professor McGonagall had stopped them and told her that the headmaster wished to see her. Ron and Harry had been curious and they intended to question her thoroughly when she returned.

They waited impatiently; and Harry had noticed that Ron was strangely quiet; for he had received several letters over breakfast and had remained quiet during the course of the day.

The Gryffindors and the Slytherins were ignoring each other pointedly. Ever since the Dark Lord's return most of the Slytherins had been more arrogant and insufferable than ever.

Suddenly Hermione burst in the door, her face was wreathed in the broadest smiles.

"Harry! Ron!" she exclaimed excitedly as she sat down next to them. "Read that! Go on read it!" she insisted, ignoring the curious stares by the Slytherins. 

"All right, all right" grumbled Ron as he read the letter over Harry's shoulder. "Jus' a moment"

Dear Hermione, Harry read

Guess what! We're allowed to come out of hiding now! Your Headmaster and Harry Potter's godfather have been placing some spells all over the house. Nice chap, Sirius Black, even though he was convicted an escaped convict. Anyway you're allowed to come home for Christmas, how about that! Aunt Mabel and Kevin and Aunt Elizabeth and Jennifer will be visiting this year, so since we don't have too much of a crowd how about inviting your friends, Harry and Ron? It's time we got to know them better. After all we do owe Harry's godfather because he did save us from those awful Dark Wizards. It'll be better for Harry too, than to spend Christmas alone or with those awful relatives of his.

Do say you'll come, because you've spent Christmas at school for the past three years and your relatives will want to see you.

All our love

Mum and Dad

"That's great, Hermione" exclaimed Harry, "They do know me well enough to know about the Dursleys!"

Hermione laughed, "Yeah, well that's because I've been telling them about you ever since first year"

She then noticed Ron's strange expression.

"Ron, what's wrong?" she asked anxiously.

"Uh!" exclaimed a startled Ron who had been awakened from his reverie, "Oh…it's nothing. You'll just have to go without me that's all"

"No way!" exclaimed Harry.

"Yes, unfortunately, way" said Ron gloomily. "My folks want me home for Christmas, and I'm not to stay at Hogwarts, so you'll have to go to Hermione's by yourself"

Harry glanced at Hermione and coloured, he liked the fact that he had the chance to get to know his other best friend's parents and relatives better but it would have been much more fun with Ron there.

"Then I won't go" declared Harry firmly, trying not to look at Hermione's disappointed face. "I'll stay at Hogwarts all by myself for Christmas"

"Oh no, you're doing that to make me guilty…" protested Ron, but he was cut off by Hermione.

"Well talk to Dumbeldore" insisted Hermione, "See what he says, if he gives you permission you can come to my place and so can Ron"

"Yeah" said Ron brightening at the thought, "I'll…"

"You're parents wouldn't want you to go to the mudblood's place for Christmas, Weasley, because you wouldn't have enough money to afford any presents" sneered an all too familiar voice.

Harry groaned silently, they had made the cardinal mistake of discussing their personal affairs in front of the Slytherins, and Malfoy in particular.

Ron was glaring at Malfoy, his ears were tinged with a shade of red "Watch your mouth, Malfoy" he barked. "At least I have friends who want me for Christmas"

"And I doubt Crabbe and Goyle make loyal companions" added Harry glaring at Malfoy, with a restraining hand on Ron's robe.

An odd expression flickered over Malfoy's face for a second, Crabbe and Goyle snarled in anger as they cracked their knuckles. Harry's Auror training had given him a slight advantage over Malfoy; he could probably fell the boy in two punches if it was needed. It looked like it here, for this was one fight they wouldn't get out off without a fistfight.

The Slytherin's were being more arrogant and antagonistic than ever after Voldemort's rise, and the fact that the rest of the school avoided any conflict with them had inflated their egos tremendously.

On the other hand, Harry and Ron were angrier than ever before, though Harry didn't show it as opposed to Ron, they refused to be downtrodden by a lot of bullies and cowards.

"Accio'

Hermione's letter flew out of her hand and into Malfoy's. He waved the letter around, "Wonder what this is?" he jeered. He began to read it aloud,

Dear Hermione

Guess what! We're allowed to come out of hiding now!" he sneered again. "How muggle! What a bunch of cowards!"

Hermione was trembling with rage and fear, Ron was snarling with anger but Harry was calm and composed.

"I don't want to fight you Malfoy, so hand it over" said Harry quietly, but his voice dripped with venom, he was aware of the attention of the whole class.

Malfoy was aware of the same attention too, and he taunted Harry, "Or what, Potter? Going to beat me up? Aware of the fact that you're outnumbered?"

"I might, after all I don't seek refuge in a bunch of brainless cowardly gits" snapped Harry. "For the last time, hand it over"

"Oh this is ridiculous, Harry" said Hermione taking her wand out as she saw Crabbe and Goyle step forward, "Ac-"

"Expelliarmus!" cried out three voices and their wands flew into the hands of the Slytherins.

"Now what Potter?" taunted Malfoy, waving the letter and their wands around, "Going to give us a macho testosterone display of your strength?"

"Ron, Harry" pleaded Hermione softly, "Please let it go"

"For the last time, hand it OVER" snapped Ron ignoring her.

"No. But…oh...then again why should I soil my hands with a mudblood's…"

He never finished the sentence, as something within Harry snapped like a piece of taut elastic and he and Ron flew at their tormentors; later he confessed to his friends that he didn't know why, it probably was result of the weeks of tension, and worry he had undergone plus the anger and irritation he felt whenever he saw Malfoy's smug face.

It was pandemonium. Malfoy, who was evidently surprised by their onslaught, took the worst of it as Harry landed Malfoy a punch onto his eye. Malfoy then feebly began to punch back; whatever his strengths were fighting back was certainly not one of them.

Harry was vaguely aware of the noises around them, Hermione was screaming, the Slytherins were cheering, Seamus and Dean yelling "Come on Harry, kick the sod's arse!"

Then Harry was kicked in the back by someone, whirling around he saw that it was Crabbe, who drew back a fist to punch him. Harry ducked and decked Crabbe in the stomach and he was pleased to see Crabbe's grunt of pain and surprise. Then Crabbe drew back his fist and thumped him in the eye. Harry saw stars and he blinked in an effort to clear them, hazily he saw Crabbe drawing back his fist,

"What is the meaning of this?" inquired a cold voice, which was spoken softly yet had the power behind it to reach to the far corners of the class.

They all looked at Serveus Snape. Ron was grappling with Goyle and Malfoy, all the students were standing, some of the shorter ones were standing on desks and chairs to have a better view of the fight.

"Sir!" gasped Malfoy as if Christ had returned, "Potter and Weasley attacked me, sir"

"He called Hermione a Mudblood!" protested an outraged Ron who was struggling to his feet and nursing a nosebleed.

For a second something flickered in Snape's eyes as he gazed at Ron coldly.

"I see. Detention Potter, Weasley you're a disgrace to your house and your fellow prefects, and fifty points from Gryffindor. Malfoy!" he turned to a pink faced Malfoy, "You may be in my house but I will not tolerate this sort of behaviour. Ten Points from Slytherin! And off you go to the hospital wing"

Harry and Ron slung their bags over their shoulders; Harry had a black eye and what he supposed was a broken nose, Ron too had a black eye and a nosebleed.

"Potter, Weasley, I didn't recall giving you permission to go to hospital wing. You will not go to Madame Pomphrey for magical healing; you will allow it to heal on its own. Perhaps this will dampen your ardour for fist fighting" barked Snape. "Sit down"

Harry opened his mouth to argue but Hermione placed a restraining hand on his arm, he glared at Snape, who was looking at him with an expression very much like vindictive pleasure, and sat down next to Hermione, feeling his nose gently.

Snape turned away from them and began writing on the board, Hermione whispered to Harry and Ron, "You shouldn't have done that"

Harry chuckled, "I enjoyed it, even though my nose is giving me hell now"

Hermione looked miserable, "Oh Harry I'm so sorry, I shouldn't have come in waving that letter like a flag, and…"

Harry looked amazed, "You're sorry?" he exclaimed, his eyebrows were arched, "Oh Hermione, you have nothing to be sorry about, Ron and I were just being silly gits and besides I'll rather be damned than back down from a fight with Malfoy"

"Yeah" chimed in Ron, "You saw how the rest of the school is treating them, like bloody gods, it was fun and worth it to cut them down to size"

"Idiots" muttered Hermione resignedly. "You two are a bunch of gits d'you know that?"

"Yeah" replied a grinning Ron and Harry in unison.

"Miss Granger" barked Snape "What are the ingredients for a Confusing Concoction?"

Hermione stood up straight and replied, "Five drops of Manticore blood, three knuts weight of Armadillo Bile…."

Harry and Ron rolled their eyes and began to settle down to work.

*******

Once the lesson was over, they, the Gryffindors, trudged back to their common room. None of them or the Slytherins would look Harry or Ron in the eye, and they had parted in a respectful when Harry, Ron and Hermione had walked through their group.

"Manticore" said Ron when they were in front of the Fat Lady and the portrait swung open and let them into the empty common room (Snape had let them leave early today, which, Harry reasoned, that something was going on).

Seamus stepped forward, he was followed by Dean, and they stretched their hands out,

"Harry, Ron, we don't know about the others, but we speak for ourselves when we say that was the best thing we have ever seen in a long time. We admire your balls for standing up to Malfoy and his goons, we know that all of us have been sort of…scared of the Slytherins after the rise of You-Know-Who and I at least am going to stand up to them after today"

Seamus let out a pent up breath as looked at Harry expectantly,

Harry shook Seamus' hand vigorously and smiled, "Thanks Seamus" he said. Ron did the same by shaking Dean's hand and the Gryffindor's came out of their stupor, they slapped the two boys on their backs and pumped their hands. Phrases like, 'that was cool!', and 'Did you see Malfoy's face!' flew around the common room.

It was times like this, though Hermione as she watched her best friends get mobbed, that house loyalty knew no bounds.

"Ow, watch the nose!" cried Harry and his classmates laughed as the crowd slowly dispersed.

They sat at their favourite table near the stairs. It was out of the way and very private, just the thing Harry and Ron needed after a hard session of Quidditch practice, and even just the thing when Harry was avoiding the Creevys.

"Well settle down, and I'll fix you two up" suggested Hermione as she dumped her bag on the table.

Harry and Ron looked at each other, "Do you know how to do Medical Magic, Hermione?" asked Ron.

"Of course I do" she said impatiently. "I looked up a few charms and spells; I thought it might come in handy someday…" her voice trailed off as she flushed, "Well come on Ron, you next Harry, sit down both of you"

"Sorry, Hermione, but I've got to see Dumbeldore about Christmas holidays" apologized Harry. "I'll be back in a jiffy"

"Okay then I'll fix you up first" said Hermione, "I'm not letting you wonder about with injuries you got because of me…now sit!"

"Oh no, it wasn't…" his voice trailed off when he saw the dangerous glint in her eyes, which uncannily reminded him about Professor McGonagall. There was no arguing with her when she got that look in her eye. He sighed and sat down.

She pulled out her wand, and stepped near Harry and pointed her wand at his eye, "Healus et Ferrulus" she intoned and Harry felt the pain in his eye begin to subside slowly. Suddenly…suddenly he was aware of Hermione's presence near him, she seemed close…too close for comfort. And suddenly he was aware of his inability to breathe properly as he looked into her liquid cinnamon brown eyes which were so entrancing….

Hermione seemed to have trouble with her breathing too as her wand wavered as she too stared deep into Harry's emerald green eyes. To them, the universe seemed to stop exist, even Ron was forgotten.

Ron smiled to himself and turned away, to let his best friends share the obviously private moment. He was fascinated by the sudden insight into Hermione feelings, which were as always concealed behind a huge emotional wall. But deep underneath, he was jealous of Harry for having Hermione in love with him. True, being fifteen was too young to think about such a complicated and serious thing like love, but Harry seemed to be very mature these days and so was Hermione, probably after her ordeal at the hands of the Death Eaters.

Hermione stepped back, her eyes unfocused, "Uh…I think that's okay now. Yes…I think that's fine. Ron your turn now"

"I'll…er…be going now" said Harry, whose ears were beginning to turn red. "Yeah, that's it. I'll be going now"

"Yeah good luck" said Ron with a trace of a smile on his face. Hermione didn't look at him, she just averted her face.

Harry turned and was about to leave, he was very preoccupied with his thoughts, "Er…Harry", called out Ron. "That's the way to the girls' dorms"

Harry reddened, muttered a few words of apologies to the group of staring girls, causing them to giggle, and he fled through the portrait.

******

Soon Harry found himself near the Gargoyle guarding Dumbledore's office, "Filibuster Fireworks" muttered Harry. Ever since his dream of Karakoff he had made the precaution of finding out Dumbledore's passwords every week.

The gargoyle swung open and Harry entered the office and stared. He stared at the person standing next to Dumbledore.

"Sirius!" he exclaimed and he was enveloped in a warm hug by his godfather.

"Hello Harry" said Sirius, a warm smile coming over his pale face.

Dumbledore smiled at the pair of them, "Sit down, sit down. Now Harry I gather you've come here to discuss the matter of going to Miss Granger's place for Christmas haven't you?"

Harry stared. "How do you know about that?" he blurted with a marked lack of respect.

"Simply because Ms Granger's parents asked my permission before inviting you to their residence, well Sirius and I have been discussing this matter. And we have decided…."

Harry held his breath.

"…to let you go"

A broad smile crossed over Harry's face, and had he been in any other place than the headmaster's office he would have whooped with joy. A few moments later that smile was wiped off with Dumbledore's next few words.

"But Mr Weasley must visit his parents. Precautions. And I'm worried Harry, very worried. We have had some intelligence indicating that there may be some…Death Eaters activities. I was reluctant to let Miss Granger go to her home for Christmas"

"But this could very well be a hoax and we see no reason why you and Hermione shouldn't enjoy yourselves" added Sirius. "But be careful Harry, Albus tells me your Auror training is coming along very well. Even Mad Eye tells me that you were probably the best pupil he ever had…" Sirius looked proud of his godson, "…and you're very well capable of taking care of yourself. Just…take care of Hermione and be careful yourself, Harry".

Harry felt himself flush with pride and pleasure when he heard that Sirius and Dumbledore trusted him enough to take care of himself and Hermione as well.

"During the last war the Death Eaters made it a point to attack muggle neighbourhoods at Christmas, their idea of a Christmas present I suppose" said Sirius bitterly. "That's why we want to be careful, just on the safe side"

Dumbledore stood up and after a moments pause so did Harry and Sirius. "Well gentlemen, I trust that is all we have to discuss. I gather you two will want to spend some time together…."

"Oh there's no need for that, Albus" interrupted Sirius, "We'll go somewhere else"

Dumbledore's eyes twinkled, "Very well then, Goodnight to you gentlemen, Sirius if you could see me before you leave…?"

"I will" promised Sirius.

"Goodnight" called out Harry he exited the room.

When they had gone, Dumbledore chuckled to himself; Harry was SO much like his father. True, he would never admit to anyone how much he missed the Potters, for they had been some of his closest friends. James's laugh and Lily's smile…how he missed them, almost as much as Sirius and Remus did.

History did have its ways of repeating itself, thought Dumbledore, and the first example of this that came to the old wizard's mind was James and his son, Harry. His son, Harry he repeated, there was very little doubt that James's son was Harry.

Continuing his trip down memory lane Dumbledore mused how strange and coincidental it was that both Harry and his father had fallen in love with muggle born witches.

He chuckled to himself, Lily had been James's first love, but that didn't matter because everyone could see how much she loved him and vice versa. Young love it may have been, but it had been love that would have lasted through the sands of time. A person was never too young for love, he had seen it been proven once too often to disbelieve in it. How old was James when he had first admitted his…feelings for Lily? Fifteen was it? Or was it fourteen? It didn't matter, well not now anyway.

Still it had been most entertaining watching the pair of them try to hide their feelings for each other, very much like Harry and Hermione in the present. It was obvious in their eyes when they looked at each other. True, Harry had been smitten with Miss Chang since his third year. Dumbledore laughed when he recalled how Harry had spent the Yule Ball watching Miss Chang and Mr Diggory with a displeased eye. He had been too young to see how natural and perfect they had been together, Harry had no chance at all.

Well it was a matter of time before Harry and Hermione finally admitted their love for each other, it was very much like Miss Chang and Mr Diggory all over again, who too had been friends like Harry and Hermione, until they finally accepted the fact that they were meant to be together.

Suddenly the mirth and merriment was wiped off his face as he recalled how Harry had returned with Cedric's body. Harry had seen too much for a person so young, and he knew how Harry would never be young and innocent again. He was a mature young man now. Still Dumbledore couldn't feel a tiny bit of pride as to how Harry had acted after the Third Task. He would have made James feel proud, he certainly had made him proud.

He hoped that Hermione would help Harry see the truth in the end, for Dumbledore could see how perfect they were for each other.

He knew it was strange, thinking about Harry's life, and love life in particular, but then again it wasn't everyday your great, great grandson fell in love.

[A/N- That was a bit of a surprise wasn't it, but on with the story…! More explanations later on]

*******

 "Harry my boy, you looked troubled" said Sirius who was walking alongside his godson in the gardens of Hogwarts.

"That's because I have a lot of problems" sighed Harry.

Sirius raised his eyebrow, "Oh is this to do with Hermione?"

Harry gaped at him, "How did you know?"

Sirius chuckled, "Harry I have a pair of eyes, and I too have seen it all before. After all I did have the same problem with…anyway back to the point" he said hastily as he saw his godson get interested in what he had nearly said. 

"It was obvious after this summer, when she looked at you, and when you looked at her, I've only seen two people look at each other like that in my lifetime and that was your parents, Harry. And they got together in fifth year too. You may be too young to think of love, but you can never be too young for love, Harry. Remember that. Hermione has a huge wall around her feelings but she lets her guard down once in a while, and I've seen it Harry, she loves you a lot" he exhaled loudly, as if he had a great load taken from his shoulders.

"You think she loves me?" exclaimed a wide eyed Harry.

Sirius let out a sigh of exasperation, he knew his godson was a tad insecure, he had gathered so from all that Remus and the others had told him. But it still reminded him of James, and he still missed him. So much that it actually ached.

"Of course she does you dolt" the words were spoken with affection. "So…what are you going to do about it?"

Harry pondered this, "Nothing" he replied.

Now it was Sirius's turn to gape at Harry, "Excuse me?" he gasped.

"Nothing" replied Harry. "I for one know how it feels having the death of a person who was just barely a friend on my hands and I'll be damned if I'm going to put Hermione in danger too, she's in enough danger already"

"You're misplaced sense of nobility is touching, Harry" was all Sirius would say and he let his godson continue speaking.

"God…" he groaned, either he hadn't heard Sirius' comment or he had chosen to ignore it. "I still wish I was back in third year; life was so uncomplicated and straightforward. Even with escaped madmen after me" he added slyly.

"Hey!" protested Sirius. "You forgot the 'escaped madman armed and considered dangerous bit'"

"Details...details" said Harry nonchalantly. "You know what I mean…."

"I understand, I had the same problem once, with this extraordinarily pretty girl who was in fact quite a close friend of mine…." said Sirius wistfully.

"What happened?"

"Oh that's a long story, and not a relevant one, not in this case anyway…"

"Oh" said Harry and he didn't pursue the matter, having spent five years under the guidance of Professor Dumbledore he had learnt to control his curiosity. They were silent for a while…

"How's Remus?"

"Oh he's fine. Slightly grumpy now that he's transformed back, but still in good health"

"Tell him I miss having him here teaching us. It helped having a sympathetic person to talk to, to share my personal problems"

"Well now I'm here, Harry" reminded Sirius gently, appalled at how jealous he felt of Remus.

"Yeah, that was before I met you…Sorry"

"There's nothing to be sorry about"

There was a long silence; they could hear the Owls hooting in the owlery.

"Someday I'm going to get you cleared, you owe me a home you know" said Harry with forced bravado.

Sirius smiled at this, "I know you will Harry. I know you will…"

"What is Remus doing for a job now, and what did he do for the past year?" asked Harry with some curiosity. The fact had been bothering him for a long time.

There was another pause before Sirius replied;

"Oh he spent his time doing odd jobs, you know the muggle sort. It's kind of hard for a werewolf to get jobs in the magical world. Same too for escaped madmen. He's had some money put away and he's been living on that for the past few months".

"Do you need any cash? I insist, take it, you can pay me back later when you're cleared" said Harry earnestly.

"No, Harry. That's your inheritance, your father…." protested Sirius gently.

"…would have been bloody ashamed of me if I didn't help out his two best friends when they needed help" finished Harry. "I'll get Gringotts to make a spare key so he'll be able to get the money out of my vault. I'll also send a letter by Owl Post to Gringotts telling them to make him a joint account holder with me as well"

He stared at his godson for several long seconds, speechless. "Thank you Harry. We won't spend too much from your vault" seemed inadequate. And he couldn't hide his gratitude and pride for his godson. It was the sort of thing James would've done except he had done it with Lily's firmness when it came to such matters.

The truth was that Remus had been doing some jobs which no self respecting wizard would have done, being a drain cleaner, a watch guard, washing dishes one night and sweeping roads another. It would have been enough for Remus to barely live on, but now that Sirius was there he had more expenses and as of late they had been hard up to make ends meet. Harry's money would come in handy, and Sirius knew that Harry would never demand the money back, nor would he accept it either. He silently promised himself two things. One, which he wouldn't squander his godson's inheritance, for it had to last for another two years. And the second reason being that one day, one day he would give his godson the home and family he had never had.

"Come on, it's getting late and you'd better get some sleep" he finally said, suppressing the urge to embrace his godson, Harry would be embarrassed by the show of emotion, after all he was a teenager now, and teenage boys were uncomfortable with such emotional displays….at least he was at Harry's age.

"Yeah I suppose so" muttered Harry and they went inside.

"You know, I was against you going to the Grangers, but Dumbledore convinced me to give you permission. And now I suppose that it is a good idea, Hermione needs someone to protect her and her family. They're muggles, they're quite defenceless. And I have confidence in you, Harry; you'll be fine"

Harry smiled up at him, "Thanks, I was expecting you to bite my head off for even trying to go out of Hogwarts"

"Yeah, well you would've gone anyway. Even if you had to break out of school"

Harry stared at his godfather, "How did you know about that?" he blurted. The truth was that he would've done something like that had he been refused permission.

Sirius smiled at his godson's flabbergasted expression; "Because that's exactly what your father and I would've done" his smile became strained.

"Now let's get you to bed, Harrykins, your sweetheart will be waiting for you" he grinned at his godson.

"You'll pay for that!" roared Harry and hurled a snowball at his godfather.

"Ow!" cried Sirius. With a quick wave of his wand he conjured a snowball and hurled it at Harry who ducked.

"Nice" he said. "You're reflexes aren't as bad as I expected"

"That's because you would've made a bloody awful seeker" taunted Harry.

"True, true. Now…ooof!" he caught a snowball in his face.

******

Hermione Granger was leaning against the balcony wall of the Gryffindor Common room. It was late, very late indeed. Eleven thirty her watch told her. But she didn't feel sleepy, and she liked standing here in the cold, it helped her think more clearly, and it was the best place to retreat to when she wanted to be alone.

Harry had taken an awful long time in seeing Dumbledore, but she supposed that was natural and after all he had to convince Dumbledore to allow his to visit her place for Christmas. He needed that, some rest and relaxation with his…friends, she thought bitterly. Never in a million years would Harry ever see her as a girl, even though Ron, which was a huge surprise, had...

She was hurt when Harry had lied to them about his Auror training, but she supposed that he had good reasons for that.

It certainly had helped his physique…her mind suddenly misted over.

Stop! Commanded her brain, this line of thinking will NOT help you get over him and she was suddenly grateful for the cold, it helped cool her down.

Do I want to get over him? She thought.

"I love you, Harry Potter" she said out aloud, not too loud though she didn't want Lavender or Parvati hearing her and spreading the word around school. It sounded nice, almost perfect.

Except that the words were tinged with a slightest hint of disappointment and bitterness.

Suddenly she saw a familiar figure, one that she would know anywhere, anytime, Harry and another person were walking around the Hogwarts premises. It was pitch black outside, but she could see them quite clearly though the light of the castle. She recognized the figure as Sirius Black. She stood there for a little while watching Harry's tall lean profile standing next to Sirius. He seemed to be describing something, for his hands were flailing around like windmills and then he clutched his hair. She smiled. There was an explosion of laughter from inside the common room, and she glanced inside and saw Ron laughing as he beat Fred in a chess game.

She smiled again, how different Ron and Harry were! With Ron it was always laughter and a feeling of comfort, but with Harry it was all the good things of life had been rolled into one and been fed to her, laughter, warmth, happiness, and a feeling of contentment. She had only one boyfriend before Harry, and that had been Viktor, who still incidentally was being stubborn about their relationship.

She also knew that whatever happened it would never work out between her and Ron; she looked at him as a friend and nothing more. He didn't deserve to be hurt in that way by her.

"You'll pay for that!"

The voice echoed through the dark night, and Hermione saw Harry chuck a snowball at his godfather. There was the jumbled sound of voices and laughter from them. She smiled again, it was nice to hear Harry's laugh, it was musical and happy and it reflected his entire persona. She had been upset to hear it so little times this year, perhaps Christmas at her place would help him cheer up. After all he was but a young boy…with a man's load on his shoulders. Her keen mind had deduced that there was something special about Harry, something that Voldemort wanted out of the way or at least on his side. What it was she couldn't exactly say but she knew that it was something special. She idly wondered whether she ought to look it up in the library, but right at the moment she didn't feel like it.

The truth was that she didn't really want to study so much, she really wanted to get out and have fun with Harry and Ron but her parents had high expectations of her and she didn't want to disappoint them. Then she also knew that she was subconsciously trying to prove all those Muggle haters that lack of purity was not something that decided a witch's talent. She really wanted to keep her studying to a bare minimum. Now that was one of her deepest secrets, and she wondered whether Harry or Ron knew of it. She supposed that Harry did, he seemed to notice everything these days. And she had caught him looking strangely at her whenever she said that Arithmancy was fun.

Her mind was a jumble of thoughts, and she was confused, very confused. On impulse she spun on her heel and went back into the common room and removed the coat and sweater she was wearing. (They were wearing muggle clothes inside the common room because it was after school hours. Most students preferred wearing muggle clothing) She took out her roll of parchment and a quill and began writing.

*******

"You wanted to see me, Albus?" asked Sirius as he returned to the headmasters study.

"I do, Sirius. Tell me what do you think of Harry's recent developments?"

Sirius laughed, "Oh you mean Hermione? Well it's just a matter of time, I suppose. It does remind me of two people I knew about twenty years ago…"

Dumbledore chuckled, "It does indeed, and that's one of the reasons I let them spend Christmas together"

"Huh?" Sirius' was puzzled. "Why? Oh sorry. I guess its for the best. I hope they finally get it over with and start dating each other. It's driving me insane. It's like living in the past….and when are we going to tell him about yourself and his special…abilities?"

"Soon" murmured Dumbledore, "Very soon"

*******

Harry entered the common room and searched for Ron and Hermione. He saw Hermione fast asleep over a book and Ron was sitting next to her reading something. His jaw was hanging open.

"Harry" he muttered. "Come here for a sec"

Harry went over to him where Ron thrust the parchment into his face. "Read that" he said hoarsely.

Harry began to read

******

Hello my name is Hermione Granger and I'm fifteen years old. I'm quite a good student if I do say so myself. Bu I'm not here to write about my studies. I'm here to write about my life, which had taken an unexpected twist.

Ever since I was a little girl I had no friends I could talk about, my braininess and bossy attitude drove them away. But when I was eleven I found out that I was a witch, and I had to attend a school called Hogwarts to receive my magical education. I won't go into the details but I ended up on the Hogwarts Express- the train bound for Hogwarts. Then I met two boys, one had flaming red hair and his face was immensely freckled, the other was dark haired and green eyed, so green that it reminded me…as I write this, of a fresh green pickled toad.

Harry winced as he remembered the singing valentine…

I later learned that this boy was none other than the famous Harry Potter, defeater of You Know Who. Needless to say I boasted about myself and the number of spells I had learnt. Which caused them to dislike me, well Ron did, I don't know whether Harry did though.

Idiot! I could have kicked myself! Harry probably knew more spells than I did! Well to my surprise he didn't, he was as unfamiliar with this new experience as I was.

Anyway I had thought that he was stuck up and snobbish but he wasn't, he was kind, gentle and well mannered. Which is more than could be said for Ron, sorry Ron IS kind hearted and gentle though I don't know about the well mannered bit, after all he does have a reputation for being insensitive at times.

Well to cut a long story short, I ended up at Hogwarts, in Gryffindor house. Harry and Ron were always getting into trouble, flying broomsticks to get at a boy called Draco Malfoy. A ferret faced tosser. Then they were up about the castle at night, and I came along and we nearly got ourselves killed by a three headed dog.

After that things got sour between us until something wonderful happened.

After a charms lesson, they called me big headed or something terrible, I can't remember, and I ran to the girls bathroom crying in despair. Why did I always end up being bossy? Was the question I asked myself over and over again.

I don't know how it happened, but a little while later, when everyone was at the Halloween feast, this enormous horrible troll came barging in to the bathroom! I thought I was dead for sure, but Harry…and Ron came to my rescue. And from that day forth we were best friends.

Three years have passed since then, and we have been inseparable.

Harry and Ron defeated the monster of Slytherin, which was terrorising all muggle-borns at school.  We then saved Harry's innocent but tried as guilty godfather Sirius Black, Harry got chosen to participate in the Tri Wizard tournament and You-Know-Who returned to power by using Harry's blood.

I won't explain about that because this is mainly about the latest developments of my life. But what Harry had to go through was awful, simply awful. In my dreams I still hear him trying to scream against a gag and then later on screaming and writhing in agony of the Cruciatus curse, and despite that, despite having to see a friend being killed before his very eyes, when he was helpless to do anything about it, he managed to stand up to You-Know-Who and refuse to comply with his wishes and that is something I could never do. To stand up to the most terrifying evil dark wizard ever and say "I won't do it" when he was ordered to bow down and beg for death.

Anyway to the crux of my troubles is that I have fallen in love with Harry Potter. Yes, it's true. I really have fallen in love with him. I have long suspected this, and it had been within me for a long time, for more than a year now, and I have finally realized that I do love him. But what can I do? Harry's facing great danger, the last thing he would notice is a bushy brown haired big toothed girl who incidentally is his best friend. And he needs our friendship and if I were to tell him it would change everything for ever. But I love him so, so much. Why, because he is the defeater of the dark lord? Because he is the most talented Quidditch player in the history of Hogwarts? Because he had become incredibly attractive? No, but I do admit the latter has a part in it! I love him because he is kind and gentle and most importantly he is always there for me whenever I need him and I try to be the same to him. That's it I guess. I think I'll get some sleep now.

******

"Oh my god" Harry muttered. He suddenly felt as if the room was spinning and he sat down. "God almighty" he said softly.

"Do you love her as well?" asked Ron abruptly, and the words shook Harry not a little, he opened his mouth to deny it but Ron spoke before him, "Its okay, we're not…together"

"You aren't?"

Ron shook his head.

"Well, in that case, yes. I love her a lot"

Ron nodded, "And what are you going to do about it?"

"I don't know. Wait I guess, until the holidays are over" for some reason he felt that saying 'do nothing' to Ron wasn't right.

Ron nodded again "We'd better go upstairs and we'd better put that back" he suggested.

Harry nodded, "Right. You go on; I'll catch you up in a few moments"

Ron nodded once again shot him an envious look and went upstairs.

Harry leaned forward and took her in his arms and slowly laid her on the couch. She didn't wake up. He kissed her on the cheek and murmured softly, "Goodnight, my love. Sleep well" and he spun on his heel and pocketed the piece of parchment and bounded upstairs.

******

When Hermione awoke in the morning she was puzzled as to where she exactly was and she had to think for a few moments before she remembered the parchment. Oh my god! Where was it? She searched and searched but she couldn't find it. She was on the verge of panicking when Harry came downstairs.

"Morning Herm" he yawned. "You were up late last night?"

"Err…yes" she stammered. What if Harry found it? She should never have had written on the damn thing. She should have used her diary as usual.

He grinned at her nonchalantly; he could act very well when he wanted to, "I've got good news, Dumbledore's given me permission to visit you're place" he didn't add that it was as the possible role of a bodyguard. He didn't see a good reason to worry Hermione unnecessarily about something that had a good chance of being a hoax.

Hermione instantly forgot her worries, "That's absolutely marvellous, Harry!" she exclaimed. "And Ron?"

Harry shook his head, "I'm afraid Dumbledore wants him back home for Christmas"

Hermione's face fell, "Oh" she said.

"Yeah, well that's life…Hogsmeade visit today?" he said reading the notice pinned on the board. "Wanna go?"

Hermione nodded, "I'm sick of studying, I want to get out and have some fun"

Harry acted as if he were in shock, "Now that is shocking, Hermione Granger our walking library actually willing to mumph!" a pillow hit him on the face.

"I am not a walking library!" she insisted.

"Yeah, yeah and Snape's the winner of Witch Weekly's Most Charming Smile Award" said Harry jokingly. "But seriously, Hermione are you feeling okay? You look a bit freaked out"

"Er…oh no nothing I'm just…tired that's all" and as if to prove this she yawned.

"Oh" and before Harry could stop it he yawned too. They burst out laughing, as only young couples in love could do- laugh at the most idiotic of jokes.

"Well you'd better get some sleep" suggested Harry preparing to go down for breakfast.

"No" said Hermione brushing her hair from her face. "I'll come down to breakfast with you, that is if you want me to"

Harry frowned, "And why shouldn't I? Let's wait for Ron, and in the meantime I want to finish my Charms Essay"

The Gryffindors were slowly trickling in from their dorms; Seamus, Dean, Lavender, Parvati and the Weasley twins were there. Ron came bounding down soon afterwards.

"Morning all" he called out. "Blimey I'm hungry"

"Can you tell me when you aren't?" called out Harry from one of the desks. Hermione was helping him with his homework.

"What the hell are you doing, man? Working on a holiday! Next you'll be colour coding your notes!" exclaimed a dismayed Ron.

"Ah!" exclaimed Fred "Hogsmeade Visit, lovely day too. Got any dates Ron? You Harry?"

Harry and Ron looked at each other and then looked at Hermione.

"Er…are we supposed to?"

"Are you supposed to?" roared George, "Of course you're bloody well supposed to! You're fifteen for god's sake, you'll be leaving in two years time and you still haven't gone on a date yet? You're a bloody disgrace, Ron and you too Harry you're an honorary Weasley!"

"Now look here" protested Harry hotly. "It may have escaped your notice but I've been b…."

"In that case, Harry" said Lavender stepping forward. (She and Parvati had been listening to the conversation with great interest) "I haven't a date today, so…will you come with me?" she blushed slightly.

Harry jaw fell open as he stared at his classmate. Hermione was glaring at him, if looks could kill…

"Excellent" cried Fred. "So that's it then, Harry you'll go with Lavender and Ron can go with Hermione. Anyway I think our duty is done here, George don't you think?" he said this quickly before Harry could protest.

"I think so too, enjoy your visit. And don't forget, Harry…" he leaned forward conspiratorially, "…the shrieking shack's always a good place to…well…get to know you're date better"

"Shut up!" snapped Hermione, then she coloured when everyone looked at her, "Er…sorry. But that's where we…er…met Sirius Black in third year"

Harry looked outraged at her explanation and Lavender took his arm, "Come on Harry, you can tell me all about that awful beast of a man…."

Had the situation been different Hermione could have actually laughed at this, but she looked miserable. Lavender took Harry can shepherded him off to breakfast, with Ron following them. She saw that Harry was trying to catch her eye but she avoided looking at him.

"Hermione, you okay?" asked Parvati as she joined her on the way to the Great Hall.

"And why shouldn't I be?" replied Hermione shrilly.

"Well because I wondered how you're feeling after the boy who you're in love with walked off, albeit forcibly, with another girl"

Hermione stared at her with wide eyes "What? I'm not in love with Harry" she protested even more shrilly.

Parvati chuckled, "Give me a break Hermione, I do have eyes you know, and that's my best friend who's going to get an awfully rude shock"

Hermione sighed, "Oh hell, okay I admit it; I'm in love with him, so there. And if I'm going to Hogsmeade today I'm going to make the point of leaving my wand behind or I'll be trying to curse both of them all day long" she sounded slightly hysterical.

"Calm down Hermione, he loves you too, he's just scared of driving you away and besides there is the fact that You-Know-Who is after him"

"You think he loves me?" croaked Hermione

She chuckled again, "Yes I do, and I'm sure of it. I don't blame you for falling in love with him; he is rather attractive, even though he's an awful dancer"

"Oh no, I'm not in love with him because he's so good looking. Even though it does…play a small part in it. I love him because he's kind and gentle and good-natured…." She blushed as she realized that Parvati was staring at her open mouthed…

"My god, Hermione. I do believe he's THE one" she stared at the brown haired girl whose hair had become tame over the years to and long teeth which had been shrunk and the result was a beautiful young girl on the verge of womanhood.

Parvati grabbed her hand, "Come on, we'll get you tarted up so that every boy, including Harry, will start steaming when they see you" and she dragged a frantically protesting Hermione back to the girls dorms.

******

A couple of hours later Harry was sitting with Lavender in the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade. He hadn't seen Hermione at breakfast or thereafter, and he wanted to explain to her that there was nothing between him and Lavender. Throughout the afternoon he had watched several girls give Lavender jealous looks, and she seemed to strangely enjoy it.

True, Lavender wasn't a super bore as he expected her to be, she could be bright and funny at times even though she possessed the dogged belief in Trelawney's Divination. But the simple fact was that she wasn't Hermione.

"I do wish you would take heed of Professor Trelawney's predictions, Harry. You should be careful you know…"

Yeah, yeah. And I wish you would quit talking about that old bat Trelawney thought Harry wearily.  

"Her diving abilities are so fascinating and…" but she had lost her audience as all the eyes of the members of the male sex were riveted on a girl who had just entered into the room.

Harry's jaw dropped and so did the other boys sitting in the room when they saw Hermione.

"Argumphlll!" choked Harry as he spat out his butterbeer.

She had done…something to her hair; she had made it sleeker and less fluffy then ever. She was wearing her simple black Hogwarts robes, but she carried herself with an air of elegance and grace. She was wearing some sort of makeup which made her prettier.

She went over to Ron, who had stopped giving Harry thumbs up signs of support and was gaping at Hermione. Suddenly Harry had to fight the urge to go over to her and carry her away to the shrieking shack and spend the rest of the afternoon kissing over and over again until he had left her breathless.

Oh god Hermione, what are you doing to me? Thought Harry in despair. All he wanted to do now was leave and go back to his dorm and spend a miserable afternoon in his bed.

"Lavender, I really must be going now" he said in what he hoped was an earnest tone.

"What! It's only three in the afternoon!" protested Lavender in dismay.

"I know" he said gently. He hated lying but he thought it was for the general good, he didn't want to lead Lavender on.

"But I have to meet with Dumbledore, and it's urgent. Really urgent" he repeated to stress urgency. "You stay here Lavender, and enjoy yourself"

She sighed, "Okay then" she stood up and gave him a quick peck on the cheek, which caused Hermione to glare at them across the room. "See you later"

He nodded and without a further glance at Hermione or Ron he strode out of the Three Broomsticks.

Once he was outside he didn't go back to the castle but he merely strolled about, his hands thrust deep into his robes pockets, why did he feel miserable? Okay, he thought, let's sort this out logically and reasonably. Why do I feel so miserable? Because I'm in love with Hermione. And why does that make me miserable? Because I want to tell her that I am in love with her, but I can't, I don't think I could stand it if I lost her friendship. But if I don't tell her she'll never know, and there might be the slimmest chance that she does love me. So, what's my final decision?

I have to tell her. I have to tell her because I don't know what the next day might hold for me and I want to savour all the moments we can share together. If I die tomorrow, I'd rather go to my grave having told her and having received an honest answer.

I have to tell her.

******

Christmas drew near, the end of term exams were held….and to his surprise Harry found out that he had passed with flying colours with top marks in DADA. Even higher than Hermione herself he found out later.

Ron had initially been disappointed that he wasn't allowed to visit Hermione's home for Christmas, but he had later cheered up when Harry had given him his Christmas present in advance, which was a book, on Quidditch of course, entitled The Keeper: Tips 'n' Tricks, which he spent a lot of time reading.  

Harry and Hermione had bidden him farewell at the station when term ended. He had promised to send their presents by Owl Post and before he had left he had a private word with Harry…

"You're going to tell her, then?" he had asked.

"I don't know, whenever seems right"

"Well mind you take care of her, she's a wonderful person, is Hermione, and I'll kick your arse if you ever hurt her" he had threatened jokingly.

"I won't, Ron" said Harry quietly. "Have a Merry Christmas, mate" and they had hugged, like comrades, like brothers bonded together by danger and uncertainty. Their friendship was stronger than ever, for Harry had told him the whole story, as well as being an Auror (Well in theory of course). Ron was touched that Harry had confided in only him and he showed it.

"Take care Harry, and take care of Hermione too. And please…try not to get injured this time" they had laughed and parted company. But Harry saw the uncertainty and fear behind Ron's jocular words, Ron was scared, scared of losing his best friend and the girl he loved; who in turn loved another his best friend (ain't love grand!).

Oh yes, Harry knew of Ron's love for Hermione. If she said yes to him, and they became more than friends he would have his work cut out managing his time with Ron and Hermione but he would manage it and things would turn out fine.

If she said yes…

Suddenly Harry felt sick.

They were going to travel by Floo Powder to the Granger's home, well before all the relatives arrived on Christmas day.

Harry barely managed to keep himself in check whenever Hermione was with him, and he spent more time in the library, flying on his broomstick or just running to keep fit. Moody had abandoned the Auror training until the start of the new turn, but Harry kept to his schedule of running at least four to five laps per day around the great lake.

He now could apparate with ease for a distance of over ten miles without feeling too stressed out. Dumbledore was considering allowing Harry to be awarded his licence at the end of the year.

On Christmas Eve Harry and Hermione made their way to the Three Broomsticks, where they intended to use its fireplace to get to the Granger's residence. Besides Harry wanted to pick up his present for the Grangers, he had learnt that Mr Granger had liked the butterbeer which he had drunk in the Leaky Cauldron in Daigon Alley a few years ago and he had always taken the chance every year to visit The Leaky Cauldron to sample the drink.

At four o'clock Harry bade farewell to Dumbledore, who hadn't given him the customary note, warning him not to practice magic because of obvious reasons, and taken his rucksack, and owl cage. He was only going to spend two days there, until the 27th, so he had packed a minimum of clothes, and left for the Three Broomsticks with Hermione who too had packed a rucksack. They were going to come back from Platform Nine and Three Quarters on the same day Ron returned.

He was walking down the corridor from the headmaster's study when he met Professor Moody,

"Ah Potter" he growled. "Hear you're leaving to visit Miss Granger's parents for Christmas"

Harry nodded but didn't reply.

"Well, have a Merry Christmas" he said and walked past Harry.

"You too Professor" called out Harry as he walked away.

"Oh, Potter" Moody called behind him. Harry spun around on his heel,

"I've heard of the probable Death Eater activity on Christmas day, well I'm not shining the sun on your arse but I want you to know that I feel you can handle any trouble if it arises. We'll be on standby, send me an owl if you do find any…trouble"

Harry smiled at Moody and stepped forward and extended his hand,

"Thanks. And have a merry Christmas" he said.

They shook hands in the corridor. "You too, Potter. I'll see you next term" and he spun around and walked away.

Harry shook his head, and as he joined Hermione, who was waiting by the Hogwarts entrance, he mused silently on how much he actually liked Moody. Sirius, Remus, most of the other Professors even Dumbledore treated him like a defenceless boy.  But Moody…well he treated him like a man, someone who had the right to walk about with his head held high and a person who didn't need anyone to worry and look after him, because he was capable of looking after himself.

He also didn't tell Hermione off the Death Eater activity, he didn't want to ruin her holiday, and there was indeed a good chance that the rumour would probably be a hoax. He was then aware of Hermione's chatter.

"Oh it'll be so fantastic Harry; we're not expecting more than four guests. There's Aunt Elizabeth, and Jenny my best girlfriend before I came to Hogwarts. Aunt Mabel will be dropping of Kevin, who's eleven years old. Aunt Mabel can't make it this year, she's promised to come to her invalid sister in law's Christmas party. Anyway you'll like Kevin, he's my favourite cousin, after Jenny that is. But he's an orphan, poor thing, just like…." She reddened with embarrassment.

Harry glanced at her, amused, "Just like me?" he asked her softly. She looked away but when she looked back he was still looking at her and she wilted under the bright green gaze. She nodded, biting her lip in mortification.

"For all my life I've been called that, poor little Harry Potter, doesn't have any parents. What a sob story, and it used to drive me mad, when I came to Hogwarts. But you know what Hermione? I don't care anymore, anyone can say what they like about me and I don't give a damn. So I'm not mad at you, Hermione if that's what's worrying you"

Hermione looked at him with slightly misty eyes, "I'm sorry, Harry. I didn't mean it like that way; it just came out like that. I'm sorry"

"Its okay, Hermione. Anyway we're here…" They went inside the Three Broomsticks. "Wait a second, Hermione, while I buy your parents their presents"

"Harry, you don't have to…" she protested but he was already at the bar buying a couple of bottles of Butterbeer and a bottle of Ogdeds Old Firewhisky. Soon he completed his purchases,

"Have a nice Christmas, Harry" called out Madame Rosmerta.

"You too, Rosmerta" called back Harry, giving her a small wave.

Hermione looked slightly irritated, "I didn't know you were on first name terms with he"

Harry had the grace to blush ever so slightly, "Oh…I just got to know her better at our last Hogsmeade visit, and she told me a few stories of my father"

Hermione felt embarrassed and not a little appalled at herself. She was getting jealous at women for absolutely no reason at all.

"Oh" she said.

"Yeah" said Harry happily. "Then she went into the usual routine of 'Oh you look soooo much like your father, but you have your mothers eyes…' etcetera, etcetera, etcetera. As if I don't know that by now"

Hermione again looked at him uncomfortably, "Well it IS true, and you do look rather like your father…." her voice trailed off at Harry's withering glance.

"I wish people would look at the real me instead of seeing me as a bloody hero and a sob story, you know, 'poor child, doesn't have any parents, he's such a powerful wizard etcetera, etcetera, etcetera…." he muttered.

Hermione laid a reassuring hand on Harry's arm, ignoring the tingles that went down her spine.

"Well I don't" said Hermione firmly.

Harry looked at her and blushed slightly, "Come on" he said. "It's time"

Hermione however, was still looking at Harry. I have to tell him, she thought. I have to get this out of me, or I'll go insane.

Harry was handing the canister of Floo Powder to her, "You okay Hermione? Go on then, you first"

Hermione took a deep breath and took a pinch of Floo Powder, "See you soon" she said, handing the canister to Harry.

"You too" he replied.

She threw the Floo Powder into the fire and she grabbed her rucksack, she too had packed a rucksack in addition to Crooshanks' basket, and stepped into it, shouting "The Grangers!" and she disappeared,

Harry took a pinch of Floo Powder himself, waited three of four minutes and then stepped into the fire, "The Grangers" he shouted and he was sucked into the fire. He was spinning very fast; there was a deafening roaring sound in his ears.

He fell onto the carpet of the Grangers living room, he felt slightly sick. Floo Powder, he decided, was not one of his favourite ways of travelling.

"Harry my boy!" exclaimed a deep voice, "How absolutely marvellous to finally meet you!" and the person pulled him to his feet.

Harry steadied himself to see Mr Granger stretching out his hand, and Harry grasped it firmly. He was a tall man with brown, slightly fluffy hair that very much resembled Hermione's hair.

"Harry, you've grown ever so much since we last saw you!" exclaimed Mrs Granger, who definitely was Hermione's mother, as their facial features matched exactly. She had blond hair, and she was shorter than her daughter's five feet four inches of height.

The room itself was pleasant, the Christmas tree was standing in a corner, and it had already been decorated. A fire crackled merrily, and a pleasant smell wafted from the kitchen.

"Harry let me take your bags" offered Hermione, coming forward from the kitchen. "At least you ended up in the right place this time"

Harry grinned at her, "Too true, I was expecting the same thing myself, and I'll carry my own bags, thanks anyway"

"Right then, it's a pity Ron couldn't be with us today" declared Mr Granger, "But anyway Harry, dinner will be ready in half an hour. Hermione will show you your room. Go on then"

"Right, come on Harry" said Hermione eagerly.

"I am coming" he complained lugging his rucksack upstairs. "Slow down will you?"

She skipped ahead and opened a door, "Here's the guest room. You'll be sleeping here. The other bedrooms are just along the corridor"

"Gotcha" he said and stepped inside the room. There was only one word to describe it, comfortable. It wasn't as artificially pretty as the Dursleys bedrooms, it was neat and comfortable and in Harry's opinion the way a room should be. What use was there of a bedroom if it was pretty but not comfortable?

"Great room" he said as he dumped his bag on the bed. He sat down on the bed and bounced himself on the bed. "Nice" he muttered. He grinned at Hermione, "This is an excellent bedroom!"

"Oh it's nothing much. The furniture's pretty sparse and the bed creaks at night" she replied. However she was happy because he was happy with his room.

"Well anything's better than the Dursleys. And speaking of furniture it's more than I have back…at Privet Drive" he refused to call Privet Drive home.

"I suppose that's true" she replied wryly. "Anyway dinner will be ready in a few minutes…and to whom are you writing a letter at this time of the day?"

"Remus" replied Harry. "Wait a little and I'll explain" and he busied himself writing two letters. Hermione sat herself on the edge of the bed and watched him write the two letters, a frown of concentration on his face. He signed both of them and looked at her; "Right, all finished. Read them and tell me what you think of them"

A puzzled Hermione Granger took the two letters and read the first one.

To the Manager of Gringotts, Daigon Alley Branch

Dear Sir,

I, Harold James Potter, hereby authorise you to make a copy of my key for vault seven hundred and forty three for Mr Remus Jonathon Lupin, and also authorise you to convert my account to a joint account between myself and Mr Lupin. The key to my vault is enclosed with this letter. I trust these details are to your satisfaction.

A Merry Christmas to you!

Yours Sincerely

Harry Potter

He had signed the letter in his bold flowing signature. And Harry was holding the tiny key in his hand waiting to put it inside the envelope.

Hermione silently read the other letter, which was addressed to Remus,

Dear Remus and Sirius if he's still not sleeping!

I've authorised the Manager of Gringotts to give you a spare key to my account. It should be enclosed in here. I've also authorised him to convert my account to a joint account between you and me. Don't argue with me; consider it as a poor substitute for fourteen years worth of Christmas presents as well as a thank you gift for teaching me the Patronus Charm. Don't worry about spending it. There's more where that came from. Hope that you now have a Merry Christmas. And take care of yourself. Also enclosed is my other present for both you and Sirius. Both of you will be able to use it. Hope you like it. Merry Christmas!

Harry

Hermione looked at him for the second time that day with misty eyes, "Oh Harry that was a…generous gesture. He'll really appreciate it" and she could hold back no longer and she hugged him.

Harry was surprised and he laughed nervously as he patted the top of her head. "Oh it was nothing. It's better than leaving it there and at least it's doing someone some good"

Hermione drew back, "And what is the other present you're sending him?" she asked curiously.

Harry grinned broadly at her and pulled out an object from his rucksack which looked strangely like a….

"A dog collar…and a leash" he announced. "For Sirius" and he started laughing. Hermione couldn't stop her laughter from escaping from her throat as she too laughed with Harry.

Harry tied the present and the letters to each of Hedwig's legs, "There girl, get my letter to Gringotts first. Get the key and then deliver my letter to Remus. Got that?"

She hooted in understanding and pecked Harry's hand rather lovingly and flew off into the cold winter evening.

They watched her go, "Come on" said Harry. "Your mother's calling us and I'm famished"

******

In a remote village in the Yorkshire Dales, Remus Lupin was busy preparing a cup of tea. Drinking tea was the only way to get warm, as there was very little central heating. His hands shivered slightly as he sipped the refreshing liquid, Sirius was still probably sleeping he thought. I never understood how that man could sleep through practically anything; he could probably sleep through the Cruciatus Curse.

Sirius had taken a few days to return from meeting Dumbledore, and when he had, Sirius had told him about everything that was going on in Harry's life. It interested him to see his best friend's son grow up, and his stint at Hogwarts had been fascinating. To teach Harry had been an entirely novel experience, and to have played a small part in the training of what was to be a very powerful wizard made him proud. Yes indeed, the year 1993/1994 had been a very pleasant year for him. Especially the ending, when he had found out that Sirius was not to blame for James and Lily's deaths. Even though Wormtail had gotten away partly out of his fault…

It also amused him, and not a little astounded him about Harry and Hermione's new relationship. Well, almost relationship. They were, sadly, being pig headed as ever, even though a holiday under the same roof would undoubtedly prove beneficial to the cause.

Sirius had had a small wager with him that Harry and Hermione would get together during the Christmas holidays, and he had bet that they would continue being as pig headed as ever until they were forced to see it.

Still it saddened him that he was not around for Harry, and it also saddened him even further when he realised that these were memorable days that would be gone forever. Voldemort was getting stronger; the Dementors riot had been a demonstration of this.

They day was drawing ever so closer when they would tell Harry the truth, about himself and his past. He knew only the tip of the iceberg, that he could only defeat Voldemort. He didn't know about the prophecies of the Centaurs.

Suddenly there was a rustle of wings as a snowy white Owl landed on the windowsill and scratched on the window. Remus padded over to the window and let the owl in. There were two letters and a package attached to its legs. He then recognized the owl as Harry's. But why were there two letters?

He gently removed the letters and Hedwig flew away, without waiting for a Owl treat. Remus slit open the letter with the handwriting which he recognized, which was Harry's letter. He took another sip from the cup of tea and began to read the letter.

Dear Remus and Sirius if he's still not sleeping!,

I've authorised the Manager of Gringotts to give you a spare key to my account. It should be enclosed in here. I've also authorised him to convert my account to a joint account between you and me. Don't argue with me; consider it as a poor substitute for fourteen years worth of Christmas presents as well as a thank you gift for teaching me the Patronus Charm. Don't worry about spending it. There's more where that came from. Hope that you now have a Merry Christmas. And take care of yourself. Also enclosed is my other present for both you and Sirius. Both of you will be able to use it. Hope you enjoy it. Merry Christmas!

Harry

"God Almighty" murmured an unusually stunned Remus. He disbelievingly re-read the letter again and then suddenly threw the letter in the air and whooped in an unusual demonstration of emotion, it was just as if he was back at Hogwarts cheering for Gryffindor against Slytherin. Whooping when James scored a goal or when Sirius saved one.

He then curiously opened the other letter which contained a single sheet of parchment and two golden keys. He read the enclosed letter breathlessly; it had the letterhead of Gringotts,

Dear Mr Lupin

Herewith in accordance to Mr Potter's instructions we enclose the key to your new joint account with Mr Potter. I hope all things are to your satisfaction.

I am your obedient servant

Gripphon Bladgook

Manager-in-Charge

Gringotts-Daigon Alley Branch

Finally he unwrapped the package and stared at the dog collar and leash and he started laughing and laughing and laughing until the tears of merriment trickled down his face.

"Thank you, Harry" he muttered. "And god bless you, you are undoubtedly your father's son…with his sense of humour"

******

"So tell me Harry" said Mr Granger, pouring himself more butterbeer, "What exactly is the seeker's role in radditch?"

Harry winced, it was a painful blow to him to hear his beloved sport's title being butchered, and Hermione was giggling at her father's mistakes.

"It's called Quidditch" corrected Harry patiently. "And the seeker's role is to catch the Golden Snitch, a walnut sized flying object, before the opposing team's seeker does. Of he does so his team gets a 150 points and the game ends. So his team invariably wins"

"Fascinating" said Mr Granger who was listening spellbound with an open mouth, his piece of chicken still in his mouth, apparently forgotten. He poured himself some more butterbeer.

"Bloody marvellous stuff this butterbeer" he said enthusiastically.

"William" cautioned his wife. "Language"  

He shot her a wounded look. He had taken a great liking to Harry, much to Hermione's delight and he had been thrilled to receive three bottles of butterbeer from Harry.

Later on Harry had made use of his knowledge of chess, to beat Mr Granger in chess (The muggle type) for three consecutive games before they called it a night.

It had been a most pleasant evening, thought Hermione later. It had been so relaxing for Harry and for her too, for she had been slightly stressed out too due to the extent of her studying.  Harry had then scoured her collection of books to choose a few good books before he retired to the guest room. She was secretly touched and proud that Harry could be so generous at times, especially when he had shared his money with his poverty stricken godfather and his friend. She knew how touched Remus would be as well. She was lying in bed, still wearing her muggle jeans and T-shirt. Her parents were asleep. She wondered what Harry had on his mind, he had tried hard to conceal something from her and she was curious as to what it was.

Meeting her parents for the first time in three months had been marvellous, and she wanted to be beside them for this short holiday as much as she could. However she was worried…things had been quiet for the dark side and she assumed that they were rallying for a big 'show'. Whatever happened she hoped that her parents would be safe…

Suddenly all she wanted to do was to talk to Harry; hear his reassuring voice and get all her worries about her parents out. That was why she felt so safe with him, which however was slightly ironic, because of his reassuring nature. She padded out of her room and into the kitchen…

Harry who was in his bed, he was still in jeans and a sweatshirt. He wasn't ready to go to bed yet, not so early in the night anyway. He was reading Oliver Twist, who with he could very well identify with.

Someone knocked on the door, "Come in" called out Harry.

Hermione stuck her head in, "It's me. Can I come in?" she asked.

Harry sat up, "Yeah, you don't have to ask. It's your house you know"

She came in; she was carrying two coffee mugs. "Brought you some hot chocolate. Thought you might want some…"

Harry sat up from bed and took the mug from her, "Thanks" and he leant back watching as she sat down near him, on the chair that went with the desk.

They sipped their beverages in silence for a while before Harry made the first move, or rather speech.

"You came here to talk about something didn't you?" he asked her shrewdly, his eyes narrowing behind the spectacles.

She nodded. "Yes, as a matter of fact I did"

"Yeah, I thought so. Initially I thought it might be to suggest some studying…."

She made a face at him, "What makes you think that all I think of is studying?"

"Because you're Hermione Granger, resident bookworm to the Gryffindor Tower. But…" he went on hastily, seeing that she was getting cross, "…I think you don't enjoy studying that much. You want to have fun, up to a certain limit though, but something or rather someone is keeping you back. Someone who wants you to have good grades. That's what I think" he exhaled softly and then took another sip of his hot chocolate.

Hermione stared at him, half astounded, half delighted. So he did know about her secret thoughts, then she wondered, what else does he know about me?

"True" she said with a tinge of bitterness to her voice. "I really like to have some fun from time to time. But as you've so finely put it…I have other commitments"

"Hermione, I'm not trying to pry into your private life or anything but your life is your life and no one others. What you want to do is important. Not what others want you to do. You're fifteen going on sixteen Hermione, in two years time you'll be out of school and probably working. What are you going to do if you aren't independent?"

Hermione chuckled, "You know Harry you should give up Quidditch and become a psychiatrist instead. You have no idea how soothing your words of comfort will be to those ailing old ladies"

Harry grinned, "True, but I still want to play Quidditch"

Hermione picked up his book, "Oliver Twist?" she said raising an eyebrow.

Harry nodded, "I suppose I can identify with Oliver, you know finding happiness after his awful childhood. It's like mine, I can't imagine how I would live life without Ron….or you in it"

She smiled at him weakly, Do it! Commanded her brain. Tell him now! "H-Harry…I…I have something to tell you"

Harry looked at her slowly, "So do I" he replied. "It's rather important so I'll go first"

"No, I have to get this out of the way" insisted Hermione.

"It can wait, what I want to tell you is that I…." His voice trailed off and an expression of absolute horror was mirrored on his face. He stared out of the window into the distant sky.

"Harry?" she asked, immediately worried. "Are you okay?"

Harry nodded; "Look!" he cried hoarsely pointing to the winter sky.

The Dark Mark was shimmering in the night sky.

******

Hermione moaned in horror, "Oh my god Harry, what are we going to do?" she gasped. She saw that Harry had got of the bed and was pulling on a jacket over his sweatshirt and slipping his shoes on.

"Harry what are you doing?" she asked, knowing very much the answer to her question.

"I" he said stressing the word 'I', "am going to take care of them"

"What?"

"You heard me. I want you to stay here and guard your parents"

"Are you insane!" she shrieked. "You're going to get yourself killed!"

Harry chuckled mirthlessly; with a flick of his wand he soundproofed the room by casting a muting charm around the house. "I have some…tricks up my sleeves"

"Harry listen to me" she said earnestly standing in front of him, gripping his arms tightly and staring into his green eyes, "You can't handle them, let someone else do it, they use the unforgivable curses for heaven's sake!"

"I can handle them" he repeated stubbornly. "Let me…go, Hermione!" he snapped trying to remove her death grip on his arms.

"No" she said equally stubbornly and, she was aware, selfishly. "How are you going to even get there? And once you do how are you going to handle them? Harry I know you want to do something but getting yourself killed won't help anybody!"

"Hermione listen to me!" yelled Harry suddenly, startling Hermione. "People are getting tortured and murdered, and you expect me to stand by and watch when I can do something about it? Besides I can apparate short distances"

"Why? Why must you of all people put yourself in danger? Why must you even go after them?" she yelled back.

Harry glared at her for a moment before replying, "Because…because of this" he said and then he stepped forward and kissed her, very, very passionately as if he wanted to express all his feelings in that one kiss. Hermione felt her knees turn into butter and she melted into his arms, seeking solace and comfort in the warmth in his body. She felt herself responding and she kissed him back. He suddenly broke the kiss and cupping her face in his hands, he looking into her cinnamon brown eyes,

"That's why; I won't let you go through the same experiences as the summer hols. I won't let the Death Eaters get you Hermione. I won't let them get the girl I'm in love with. Not if I have something to do about it. Goodbye Hermione, remember stay here and guard your parents" he said all this very fast, but Hermione heard it all.

He quickly stepped away from her and before she could move a muscle he apparated away.

Hermione could scream with frustration, but at the same time she was filled with joy. Harry loved her! But then she felt as if someone was tugging at her heartstrings, there was so much to be said so much to tell him and she wasn't even sure whether he would return at all. She felt angry at herself that the uppermost thought in her mind was 'Boy, he's a good kisser'

"I love you too" she said quietly, to herself. "And you'd better come back alive, Harry Potter or I'll, I'll…." Words failed her as she thought of life without Harry by her side.

******