A/N: Enjoy!
Much to Fleur's disappointment, Bill slept the first 24 hours after his transformation. She maintained her silent vigil his bedside despite Tonks' insistence that she allow the Weasleys to spell her. When they had arrived back in their rooms this morning, Bill was very weak and hardly protested when she pressed the vial of dreamless sleep draught to his lips. Fleur had helped him into the bed and tucked him in like a sick child, "Bill, I still love you. Tomorrow we will finalize the wedding plans." She patted him lovingly on the cheek as he drifted off to sleep.
Fleur had pulled a chair up to his bedside and for a while sat silently holding his hand thinking of how they had met and how they had come to be at this place in their lives. Fleur and Bill both worked for Gringotts. On her first day she had met the tall red head only briefly. He had been in a hurry to meet with his new supervisor and her supervisor was showing her around and introducing her. Fleur was immediately attracted to the handsome young curse breaker. She had asked around and found out his name was Bill Weasley and he had just transferred from Egypt to the London office to be closer to his family. Fleur had immediately recognized the name Weasley for she had met Ron Weasley in the past year while at Hogwarts for the Tri Wizard Tournament. She had been impressed with Ron because he was Harry Potter's best friend and he had helped to rescue her little sister, Gabriel, from the lake in the second tournament task.
Fleur had found out that she was to work in the curse breaker's office some days to learn as many facets of Gringotts as possible. While working in Bill's department, Fleur made it a point to say hello and engage him in conversation. She even made a conscious effort to control the Veela in her. The more she spoke with Bill the more she liked him and it wasn't too long before they were sharing lunch breaks together. Fleur made sure she controlled the Veela part of her because she desperately wanted Bill to like her for her and not because of some charm she possessed from her grandmother.
Fleur smiled at the memory of their first real date. Bill had arrived at her flat nervously clutching a bouquet of irises. She invited him in while she put on her shoes and put the flowers in some water. Fleur knew that Bill had come from a large family and he had told her what it had been like growing up with five brothers and one sister. Bill had told her one day over lunch that while his family lacked financial riches, they were rich in family and love so Fleur was intrigued as to where Bill would take her on their first date. He had told her to dress casually in comfortable walking shoes. Bill had arrived in muggle attire without Wizarding robes so Fleur grabbed her leather jacket and put on her trainers and announced she was ready to leave.
When they arrived on the street level of her apartment Bill lead her to a plain looking car and helped her into the passenger seat. They drove just outside muggle London to an area with few houses and many pastures filled with cows and other farm animals. All the while Bill hummed with the radio and silkily evaded her questions on where they were going. After about 20 minutes of driving they pulled up outside an old looking farm house. There were a few other cars parked nearby as they got out of the car and made their way inside the building. Fleur couldn't suppress a gasp of delight at what she saw inside. Bill had brought her to a restaurant that was inside someone's family home. It was a family style restaurant; Bill explained that meant you ate what ever was prepared that night. They were lead to secluded table by a window looking out the back of the building. There was a forest out back and with the sun beginning to set, Fleur thought it was beautiful. The sky was streaked with oranges, reds and deep blues. As they sat and talked over a wonderfully prepared meal and an equally wonderful bottle of wine a few of the stars came out and the night sounds could be heard.
Bill rose from the table, took her hand and led her out the back door after paying their check. At the back door he picked up a basket that had been sat by the door and took her walking out toward the forest. When they had gone a short distance to the top of a slight rise, Bill stopped and put the basket on the ground. He took out a blanket and spread it on the ground. He helped her to sit down before taking a seat next to her. Bill pulled a plate of cheese and fruit and another bottle of wine out of the basket. He pulled out his wand and conjured two pillows for them to lye on and star gaze. Bill had been listening when she had mentioned she loved to star gaze and had been missing her home in France where she lived away from the city lights and could star gaze every night.
As they lay there looking up into the heavens Bill pulled Fleur into the crook of his arm too keep her warm he had said. They talked softly and fed each other from the plate of cheese and fruit, occasionally sipping out of the bottle of wine. It was the most romantic date she had ever been on. That night, Fleur knew she was in love. She just hoped Bill felt the same. Fleur didn't have to wait long to find out that answer. Two weeks later, they were sitting in Bill's flat getting ready to watch a muggle movie when Bill looked at Fleur with a nervous expression and declared his love for her. Fleur had squealed in delight and hugged Bill close. It was the beginning of their lives together as far as Fleur was concerned.
Fleur was startled out of her revere when Bill shifted in his sleep and murmured "Fleur." Fleur slid to the floor onto her knees at Bill's head and whispered to him, "It's alright, Bill I'm here and I am not leaving." Bill seemed to settle back into a restful sleep. Fleur began to talk to Bill while he slept, "When you wake, we will make the last decisions on our wedding. I would like it to take place in about six weeks. Mister Lupin says you will feel your best in the middle of the moon's cycle. I think I would like the wedding to take place in your parent's back garden. We will put up lights and have flowers everywhere. Your brothers will serve as ushers and of course who ever you pick to stand for you. I think Ginny and Gabriel shall be my only attendants and since Ginny is back together with Harry, we shall have Harry be an usher as well. He is almost like one of your brothers, anyway. And if it is not too much trouble, I would like the reception to take place in the garden as well. Your mother's garden is so beautiful, that is if we get rid of the chickens. I am sure if we ask now, Tonks, Mister Moody and Mister Shacklebolt will assist with placing protective wards so that everyone can enjoy themselves. That way we wouldn't have to worry about the minister insisting on some silly precautions just so Harry can attend. Then after the reception we can go to my uncle's estate in Italy. I guess estate is rather a grand name for it but it is hidden from the muggles and is quite comfortable. There a swimming pool outside and you can see the ocean from the patio. There is even a little path that runs from the garden to a private beach. We can swim all day and feast at the little bistros in the village at night. He does have an elderly house elf who is a wonderful cook. I'm sure she will also be willing to keep us feed. But then, of course there is the matter of where we will live. My flat is larger but yours is much more convenient to work. Perhaps we could find a larger flat in your building. But eventually we will need a house, a large house, because I want many children. At least as many as are in your family. Little boys with blond hair and blue eyes and little girls with red hair and my eyes."
Bill shifted again in his sleep and grasped at Fleur's hand. He pulled on her arm till she was overbalanced and had to catch herself to keep from falling on top of him. He had such a strong grip on her arm that to break it and find a comfortable sitting position would surly wake him so Fleur gently nudged him over and climbed into the bed with him. Bill immediately withdrew his hand from her arm and wrapped his arm around her waist to draw her close to him. Fleur sighed contentedly and focused on evening her breathing and relaxing so as not to disturb Bill's rest by fidgeting.
Eventually she was drifting off to sleep. Had she been awake much longer, she would have heard Hermione's scream drift up through their open balcony door. As it was, neither Fleur nor Bill was aware of the drama unfolding within the castle. They had no idea that for a few frightening hours, Harry Potter, the supposed savior of their world, was missing. They had no idea that he had been in the grips of a nightmare that was in reality playing itself out in a distant part of the world. They had no idea that Bill's sister, Ginny was witnessing much of the same nightmare and was desperately trying to get to Harry to help him but couldn't because she had once again lost so much physical and emotional strength. They were able to sleep through all the drama going on with in the castle.
Shortly after insuring Ginny and Harry would indeed be alright and sleep for several hours under the watchful eye of Madame Pomfrey, Mrs. Weasley followed closely by her husband bustled toward the staff quarters. She called over her shoulder, "Hurry Arthur. We've left Fleur for too long. We should have been helping her this morning. If it's not one thing it's another. I do hope she isn't angry we haven't been in to spell her yet."
Arthur caught up with his wife just as she was about to barge, without knocking, into Bill and Fleur's rooms, "Molly, dear. You should knock first. He's not a little boy any more and could otherwise be occupied."
"Oh Arthur, don't be silly. I'm sure he is not even awake yet. Remus said it is normal for someone who is going through their first several transformations to sleep for 24 or more hours afterward. I'm sure he's still asleep." Molly made to open the door again and Arthur put a restraining hand on her arm and raised his other to knock. When he received no response Molly turned to him, "see. I bet they are both sleeping." She pushed the door open and walked through the sitting room to where the bedroom door stood open. Looking in, Molly saw that her oldest son and fiancé were indeed sleeping peacefully, "I'm glad they were able to sleep through this drama. Now if we could just get Remus to stay in bed and rest." Turning to her husband Molly said, "Just imagine, Arthur, grandchildren with blond hair and blue eyes. Oh I can't wait" she said gleefully.
Arthur took his wife into his arms and gave her a quick kiss on the top of the head, "Yes, dear. I can't wait for grandchildren, either. But for now, we need to leave them to rest." He guided her out into the hallway and called for Dobby the house elf.
With a loud crack, Dobby appeared, "Yes, Mister Wheezy, what can Dobby do to help friends of Harry Potter?"
"Dobby, please I've asked you to call me Arthur. But what I need is if you could please keep an eye on Bill and Fleur for a while. Molly and I are going to take a nap and want to be notified as soon as Fleur wakes so we can sit with Bill a while. Also, make sure she has tea and a snack waiting when she wakes. I didn't see her eat any breakfast and I'm sure she hasn't eaten since last night." Arthur requested kindly of Dobby.
"Of course, Mister Arthur. I will do as you ask. There is a reliable portrait in their rooms that I will have summon me when she wakes. I will bring her the tea and a sandwich she requested of the elves when she was here during the tournament. Is there anything else, Dobby can do for Harry Potter's friends?" The small elf inquired.
"No, Dobby, that's all. Thank you for your help." Molly said and they turned to enter their own rooms. Molly said to her husband, "I think I will need to knit him his own jumper. I know Ron shrunk one for him a few years ago, but he needs his own. What color do you think he would like?"
Arthur sat heavily on their bed and removed his glasses, "I don't think it is a question of which one color he would like, Molly. I think he would be grateful for anything you made for him but from what the boys say about his panache for non-matching socks, I'd say knitting him a multicolored jumper would be fine. But Molly, there is time for that later. Come on and lay down and let me hold you for a while, Mollywobbles."
Molly blushed at her husband's use of her pet name, "Oh, Arthur…I have missed our time alone lately. We've both been so busy. Perhaps when the children return to school we could sneak off for a weekend?" Molly asked as she crossed to their bed and lay down beside her husband with her back to him.
"Perhaps, Molly." Arthur said as he wrapped an arm around his wife and pulled her close. They fit together like puzzle pieces and Arthur kissed her neck and nuzzled her shoulder. He felt his wife relax in his arms as she turned over to face him. He placed one hand on her cheek and pulled her close for a kiss. He poured all his love and desire for his wonderful wife into that kiss. He didn't always have the words to say what he felt but he knew she could feel it when they were together. As he ended the kiss he could see tears shining in her eyes, "What's wrong Molly?"
"It's nothing, really. I just hope are children are as happy and in love with their chosen mates as we are together. I just want our children to have a wonderful life and it's going to be so hard with the war going on." Molly wept.
"Molly all you have to do is look at the way Bill, Ron and Ginny look at Fleur, Hermione and Harry and the way those three look back at them. I know Ginny and Harry have had a hard time of it lately but they seemed to have it figured out and as soon as Remus feels better we will all sit down with Minerva and Dumbledore's portrait and discuss what can be done to help them. But we do have to let them work it out. Now stop worrying or I'll have to spike your dinner again." Arthur said with a small laugh.
"You're right, its just that I've always worried and it's hard to stop once you've started. But I'll try. Perhaps once Bill and Fleur wake, Bill will let us continue planning the wedding. I wonder where she will want to have it." Molly mused. Molly had been so lost in her thoughts she missed the fact that Arthur had fallen asleep on her until she heard his gentle snore. Well there goes my hope for the afternoon.
In the hospital wing, Tonks kept watch over Remus, Harry and Ginny. She was exhausted, her self but she felt like someone needed to keep guard over these three. She didn't want Remus to get up till he had rested sufficiently. For when he did wake they were facing a long talk not only about how it was he was able to communicate with Bill when Bill didn't fully transform but also about how Hermione's potion had seemed to allow the wolf to rest more and remain more calm. They also had to discuss what had happened this morning to Harry.
While nothing had been made official, Remus was acting as Harry's guardian since he was no longer at his aunt and uncle's home. Tonks knew Hermione had briefly told Remus what was going on this morning and she knew Remus had been worried about Harry. But Remus had been sleeping so well when they finally got Harry to bed, Tonks didn't have the heart to wake him, so she sat and waited.
Tonks had never been one for inactivity. She hated guard duty for that very reason. When Remus had first asked her to stay with him during the transformation, Tonks had secretly dreaded it in anticipating hours of sitting and doing nothing. So she was glad she had had the chance to talk to Ginny and Hermione as well as Harry last night. She enjoyed the company of the two younger witches. Tonks had come to think of them as younger sisters she had never had. She felt she had helped Hermione and Ginny understand things about their choices a bit better and she felt it was good for them to see that some people do wait till they were sure they had found their life mate before making that kind of a commitment to another person.
Tonks looked over at Remus and picked up his hand. She knew she loved this man with all her heart. She also recognized that it was entirely possible that one of them would die in the upcoming battles but she wanted every moment she could get with Remus. She was glad when Kingsley had owled this morning offering her a position as Auror in charge of Hogwarts security. She accepted without hesitation. She knew she would enjoy spending time with the students as well as getting the chance to spend loads of time with Remus. Tonks had planned on offering to take Remus' classes when he was indisposed. She was pretty sure she could handle revising with the students for a few hours during the day he was to transform and the day after. But Tonks had also wondered who they were going to get to teach Transfiguration now that McGonagall was headmistress.
Remus stirred in his bed bringing Tonks out of her wonderings. He lifted his head off the bed and croaked, "Nymphadora, where is Harry? Has he been found? I had told Hermione to wake me when he arrived."
Tonks rose and sat on the edge of his bed placing a comforting hand on his shoulder and pushing him back onto the bed, "It's alright, Remus. Harry is here and so is Ginny. They are both sleeping. And before you get upset at Hermione, I wouldn't let her wake you once Poppy was done examining him. You were sleeping well and I didn't have the heart to wake you. You can yell at me later, but right now, Remus, I'm exhausted. Kingsley should be here any minute and as soon as he arrives I am heading back to your quarters to sleep."
Remus eyed the young woman before him and realized she looked like hell. Her face was pale and drawn and there were dark circles under her slightly dull eyes. He knew she had been awake all night last night and even though the werewolf had been able to sleep, the human part of Remus was still exhausted. The actual act of transforming took so much out of him it was hard for him to remember, sometimes, that others had been awake with him, "I'm sorry love, it must have been a rough night for you. I feel better so when Kingsley gets here we will both go back to my quarters to rest. How's that?"
Tonks nodded suddenly completely physically and mentally exhausted, "But you have to tell Poppy you're leaving. She has already had a go at me for not bringing you her first thing this morning. She said something about not knowing how a new potions master would brew the Wolfsbane and since it was an unknown, you should have come here this morning instead of to your own bed. I got it for letting Bill go to his own bed, too."
Remus chuckled at the thought of this tough Auror being given a dressing down by the dowdy hospital matron, "I'm sure she really frightened you, didn't she love? Don't worry; I know how to sneak out of here. I always hated having to stay here when I was at school so as soon as I was able to stand I would sneak out."
The door the hospital wing opened and a very tall, muscular, shaven headed black man entered. He exuded power and commanded attention and respect everywhere he went and Tonks was very glad he had been made Head of the Aurors. He spied Tonks sitting on Remus' bed and made his way over, "I got you rather brief report on the events of the morning, Tonks. I'll expect a full report on my desk by Monday as well as your post transformation interview of Remus and Bill. Now I suggest you get some rest. We have much to discuss this evening and I won't keep repeating myself because you're falling asleep." Looking at Remus he addressed the werewolf lying in the bed, "Get her out of here, Remus. I'll cover your escape" he said with a twinkle in his eye. Kingsley moved over to the bed that held the two teenagers and conjured a squishy arm chair to sit in that fit his muscular frame. He reached into his briefcase and pulled out a large novel to read while he kept watch over Harry and Ginny.
Remus rose from the bed, took Tonks' hand and moved over to stand at the foot of their bed, "Kingsley, wake me when Harry wakes, no matter what. Okay?"
Kingsley nodded, "Of course, Remus. Now get her to bed before she falls down and hurts her self. Oh what am I talking about, of course she will fall somewhere between here and there." Reaching back into his brief case he pulled out a small jar that Tonks recognized contained a very potent bruise remover and deep muscle massage lotion, "Here. Take this. When I heard things had gotten a little out of control here, I figured I should bring her some more bruise remover." Kingsley tossed the jar at Remus and waved them out of the hospital wing, "I'm serious, get her to bed."
Remus chuckled, caught the jar and tugged Tonks out the door.
After being shut out of the hospital wing, Ron led Hermione toward the kitchens, "'Mione, lets go get you some lunch. You missed breakfast this morning." Ron saw Hermione nod her head in agreement, "Then we'll go back to the common room and just relax, maybe take a nap. That seems to be all that's going on in the castle today, anyway." Ron smiled down at his girlfriend.
Hermione sniffed and followed Ron down to the kitchens. When they approached the portrait of the large bowl of fruit, Ron reached out and tickled the pear that would open the portrait to the kitchens. As they entered they were immediately approached by a house elf who introduced herself to them, "Miss Granger, Mister Weasley my name is Maryann. I am the house elf in charge of the head's dormitories." She turned to indicate the three elves behind her, "And this is Tinsley, Jamie, and Drue. They work in the head's dorms as well and report to me. They assist me in making sure you have everything you require. How can we help you today?"
Ron squatted down so he was speaking eye-to-eye with the elf, "Please call me Ron. Hermione and I would like some sandwiches and pumpkin juice to take back to the dormitory. If it's not too much trouble."
Maryann cocked her head to the side, "Of course Mister Ron, but do you not have sandwich things in your kitchen? There should be the roast beef you like and the chicken Miss Granger likes in the ice box along with a wide selection of drinks."
Hermione squatted beside Ron, "Maryann, what kitchen? We didn't see another doorway off the common room. We found the individual bedrooms and bathrooms even the balcony outside each but we didn't see where a kitchen door would be. And besides, there is no need to call me Miss anything, just Hermione will do."
"Of course, Miss Hermione and I should have realized you would not know where the kitchen is. There are usually not occupants there during the summer and when new head boy and girl receive their letters; all the information on their quarters is included. If you would like, I will come up with you and show you how to enter the kitchen. It is behind a portrait like these kitchens." At their nod, Maryann continued, "Miss Hermione I must speak of a serious matter with you, though."
Hermione looked taken aback but nodded, "Of course, Maryann. What is it?"
"Miss Hermione, I know it was you that has been leaving knitted clothes for the house elves in Gryffindor Tower. While we recognize you mean well, I must ask you to not leave any more clothes for the elves. They are insulted." When Hermione started to protest, Maryann held up her hand to stop her, "Please, let me finish. I do not think you understand the position house elves are in here at Hogwarts. Many years ago when Professor Dumbledore became headmaster he had a meeting with all of us house elves. He offered to free all of us at that time but keep us employed here at Hogwarts. He offered us clothes and wages and other benefits like days off. All of the elves refused saying we were proud to keep Hogwarts' secrets. We enjoy working here for many of us had been dismissed from previous masters who were horrible to us. Many of us were mistreated and abused, however when we sought work at Hogwarts and saw how well we were to be treated and taken care of, we voluntarily took the oath that bound us to Hogwarts. At Dumbledore's insistence we are given a monthly stipend to purchase the things we might want for all of our needs are taken care of by the school. Miss Hermione I want you to understand that we all are very well taken care of here and all of us voluntarily are bound to Hogwarts and are honored to keep its secrets and those of the students and staff. I must ask you to not leave clothing for the elves while in the dormitories any longer."
Hermione was shocked to learn that she had offended the house elves, "I'm sorry Maryann, I had no idea. I never meant to offend anyone. I just wanted everyone to be treated well and I just wanted you to be able to have choices," Hermione sobbed.
Ron patted her back and turned her to hug him, "It's alright Hermione, they understand you had the best of intentions." Ron was fighting hard to keep a grin off his face. He had secretly made fun of Hermione's knitted hats and socks. He and Harry had kept it a secret that Dobby was the only elf that would clean Gryffindor Tower and that he had taken every last one of Hermione's knitted hats and socks. "Come on, let's go and have Maryann show us how to get into our little kitchen. I'll make you a sandwich and we'll take a nap. You must be exhausted."
Maryann squeaked when she realized Hermione was crying, "Miss Hermione, I did not mean to hurt your feelings. It's just; well the elves asked me to speak with you. They are not angry. They understand you were just trying to help."
Hermione nodded, "I understand. I won't leave anymore clothing lying around. But Maryann, can I leave personalized blankets and such? I enjoy the knitting and like to make things for others."
Maryann nodded, "If you feel you must, but we house elves would rather you put your energies into helping Mister Harry Potter. Many of us remember how things were the last time and we want Mister Potter to win for good this time so that more house elves will be treated better with such evil masters gone."
"Okay Maryann. I promise to do everything with in my power to make sure Harry is as ready as can be for what's coming up." Taking a deep breath and wiping her eyes, Hermione said, "Now, how 'bout showing us that kitchen so you can get back to work?"
Maryann nodded and preceded them out the door of the kitchens. Once they arrived at the portrait hole, Maryann placed her hand on the frame and it immediately opened with out her having to give a password. At seeing their shocked faces, Maryann explained, "Only I, Tinsley, Jamie and Drue are able to do that with this portrait. It ensures we are always able to get into the dormitory to clean and take care of things without having to seek out one of the heads to get the new password." Maryann preceded them through the portrait hole and strode over to a portrait similar to the fruit bowl that indicated the entrance to the main kitchens. She tickled the banana this time and the small portrait opened to reveal a door handle. Maryann pushed on the handle and a door swung open to reveal a small kitchen complete with a stove, sink, icebox, pantry and a table that would seat four, "Here you are sir and miss. You will find that we will keep the pantry and icebox stocked with your favorite foods and snacks. If you have want of anything else please just call for one of us and we will get it for you. When you are finished, please feel free to leave the dishes and we will take care of them." With a small bow and a loud crack, Maryann was gone from the kitchen.
Ron led Hermione to a chair and sat her at the table. He turned to the pantry and pulled out the bread and retrieved the chicken and roast beef from the icebox. Hermione got up and searched the cabinets for plates, "'Mione, sit down. I can make a sandwich. I'm not totally helpless in the kitchen."
Hermione smiled, "I know, but it's nice to do things together" she said with a slight blush. While Ron worked on putting the sandwiches together, Hermione retrieved a plate of cut up carrots and celery from the icebox and placed them on the table. She then took two glasses out of the cabinet and poured water out of the pitcher from the icebox.
Ron looked at the vegetables and water and frowned, "I wanted chips and a butterbeer, Hermione. Isn't there any in there?"
"Of course there are chips and butterbeer, but vegetables and water are better for you" Hermione said with a very mother-ish tone. "I have noticed you really don't eat very well and…well…I'd like you to be healthy so you are around for a long time." She said the last bit with her head down and blushing furiously.
Ron gaped at her she's paid attention to what I eat? I never knew. It's just another thing to love about her, how much she cares. "Okay, I'll try the vegetables, but I'm having a butterbeer later."
Hermione grinned at Ron and turned to the icebox to pull out a bottle of Ranch dressing, "Here, you can dip them in this. I tried it while on holiday with my parents in America and it was wonderful, real tangy." He doesn't have to know its low fat, she thought.
They ate in companionable silence for several minutes till Ron reached across the table and grasped Hermione's hand, "'Mione, tell me what happened to Ginny this morning."
Hermione took a deep breath and sat her sandwich aside, "We were out by the lake talking. It was nice, really, just to talk to her when she was feeling a bit better. But then she told me she hadn't been feeling all that well since we woke up to check on Bill at the moon set. We both had taken a short nap before wandering out to the lake. Then she noticed that no one had seen or heard from Harry since late last night when he went to talk to Tonks. As she got up to come into the castle with me to find him she collapsed back onto the ground. Ron, she looked like she was being tortured. She said she knew Harry was in trouble and was hurting somewhere. It was the hardest thing I have ever had to do, leave her and run for help. But I couldn't carry her and she wouldn't let me stay. So I ran screaming into the entrance hall and luckily I ran into Charlie and Dobby. He summoned Tonks and Professor McGonagall and sent a message to your parents to help us find Harry. He sent me back out with Dobby to get Ginny and take her to the hospital wing. She was barely conscious when we got to her. She was pale and frozen, like she was just draining away. I cast a warming charm and to tell you the truth, I was so upset; I'm surprised I could cast it. We got her to the hospital wing and I helped Madame Pomfrey get some calming potion into her. That's where you came in." Hermione finished with a deep sigh.
Ron nodded, stood up and walked around to Hermione's chair. He pulled her out of her chair, "Thank you, 'Mione for taking care of her. All this uncertainty has me scared and she and Harry is really a, what is it, Fated couple then this just complicates things more. I mean what happens if one of them is taken, they will loose their magic and we'll be doomed. It just makes me realize how important those I love are to me. With out you, Ginny might have been lost, too." Ron looked down into her hazel eyes and continued, "Hermione, you know that I love you, right? I love you so much sometimes it hurts and I know it took us a bit to get here, but I want to do everything I can to make sure I get to spend the rest of my life with you." He leaned down and gently kissed her on the lips. Hermione snaked her arms up around his neck and ran her fingers through his hair, pulling his head closer and deepening their kiss.
Ron allowed his hand to move up and down her back and over her hips and he memorized her shape and feel. His lips left hers to kiss down her cheek and to nuzzle at her neck. Hermione's right hand drifted down to caress Ron's chest. Hearing Ron groan her name, gave Hermione a bit of daring she didn't realize was in her. She unbuttoned the top two buttons of Ron's shirt and tentatively traced her fingers along his collar bone. Ron felt fire blaze through him at her touch on his collar bone. He turned them so that he could lean against the table. He heard Hermione gasp as she settled between his legs and felt him press against her hip. Ron growled deep in his throat "see what you do to me."
Hermione could feel a blush rush up her neck and a tingle in the pit of her stomach she hadn't ever felt before. Everywhere Ron had touched her, she was on fire. Hermione nodded and pressed her lips to Ron's neck. She felt his pulse race as she nibbled down his neck with intended destination as the little bit of chest exposed when she had unbuttoned his shirt. Ron ran his hands around to grip her bottom and pull her even closer. Ron lost himself in the feel of Hermione touching and kissing him. Then he felt her lay her head on his shoulder and seconds later, felt tears that soaked his shirt. Releasing his grip on her, he pulled back a bit to look down at her, "'Mione what is it? What did I do? I don't mean to rush you, but God, it feels good."
Hermione shook her head, "No Ron, you didn't do anything, and you're not rushing me. It's just that, well I agree, this feels wonderful but…oh God Ron, I'm sorry."
Ron brought up a hand and placed a finger under her chin to tip her face up so he could see her face, "What is it, then? Don't you … want?"
"That's not it, Ron. I like being close to you and I like the way you make me feel but, Merlin I hate to admit this, but I am absolutely exhausted. Ginny and I were up late talking to Tonks and then with what went on this morning and all the emotional upheaval of the past few day, I don't think I can stand much longer." Hermione said apologetically.
"'Mione, love, never, never apologize for being tired. And never apologize for saying no. We'll only do what you want and only when your ready and want. I mean I don't think we are ready for that but I do enjoy holding you, and kissing you and touching you and I really like the way you make me feel, too. So don't apologize." Ron hugged her close like a cherished treasure. Then he whispered, "Let's get you into bed." Ron led Hermione to the girls door and led her inside, "Are you going to change into pajamas or nap in your shorts?"
Hermione blushed, "I think I'll just change in the bathroom. I'll be more comfortable in my pajamas." She escaped into the bathroom while Ron undid the rest of his buttons and pulled off his shirt to reveal the t-shirt he wore under his button-down. He sat on the edge of her bed and pulled off his tennis shoes. Hermione emerged from the bathroom a few minutes later having changed into her short pajamas and pulled her hair out of its French braid. "Are you…are you going to lay down with m..me?" she asked tentatively.
"I thought I would, for a bit if that's okay with you." Ron said with a dry mouth at seeing quite a bit more of Hermione than he had ever before.
"That would be nice." Hermione said with more bravado that she felt as she climbed into her large four-poster bed.
Ron stood and moved over to the windows and pulled the shades closed instantly throwing the room into semi-darkness. He moved to the other side of her bed and sat on the edge facing away from her. He could feel the tension in the room and said quietly, "if you'd rather I didn't I can go lay down in my room." He didn't want to face Hermione, still afraid of rejection.
Ron felt the bed dip behind him and Hermione moved to sit behind him. She ran her hands down over his shoulders and leaned in to lay her head on his back, "No Ron I wouldn't rather you go lay down in your room. I don't want to be alone and I do want to be with you right now. Now please, lay down here with me and hold me till I fall asleep" she said with an honest emotion in her voice.
Ron turned and slid into the bed on his back and settling Hermione into the crook of his shoulder with her head resting on his chest. Hermione took several deep breaths and felt the both of them relax. Soon both were drifting off to sleep.