HERE COMES CUPID, LIGHTENING SCAR AND ALL
Revised: August 10th 2013
Harry and Hermione walked down the corridors back to Gryiffindor Tower after their detention with McGonagall, Hermione frowning at Harry's troubled look.
"What?" he raised a brow at her.
"You don't look too happy. Again, if you don't want to say it's fine but it looks like something might have happened earlier."
Harry's sharp green eyes bore into her chocolate ones. Hermione couldn't help but notice how lost and sad he seemed to be.
"You know I won't judge. It might make you feel better if you got it out," she said quietly, taking his hand.
Harry sighed. "Look, nothing happened. Something was just said and I haven't been able to get it out of my head since. (sigh) Okay, they told me last night that at the end of the month they'll be able to tell whether they're having a boy or a girl."
Hermione smiled. "Wow, already? Time has been going by fast hasn't it? But why has it been on your mind?"
Harry shrugged. "Guess it's just the fact that once they tell me it will be more real. When they tell me I'm going to have either a brother or a sister, things will really get serious. The fetus will be something more than just a fetus. It will soon be a baby. I- I know I'm happy for them, I am, but this is a big thing. I don't know how I'm really going to feel once I find out. At times I still find it hard to believe it's happening."
Hermione nodded and squeezed his hand. "That makes sense. I know how you say you don't care how much attention you get after the baby comes but everyone wants to be noticed a little. The baby being a boy or girl shouldn't matter much but it just might. Society treats the two differently. We know Sirius wants a boy. If he has one, well, who knows how he'll take it…"
Harry shook his head. "You're right, it shouldn't matter. Things are going by fast like you said, that's why I feel a little overwhelmed. There's still a long way to go."
Morning came along and Harry was sitting with the look on his face that clearly meant he was deep in thought.
"What's up mate?" Ron asked as he stuffed himself with peppery eggs.
"I was thinking about something. Something I think we should pursue if we can," Harry began.
"And what's that?"
"The Quidditch Club. Remember, technically we're allowed to make the club if we wanted to because Dumbledore and McGonagall have already given content on it months ago."
"You really think we should have a Quidditch club?" Ron asked.
"Well yeah now that we aren't allowed to do the DA anymore. And this time anyone can be a part of it. Even though I'd rather leave certain people out… it'll probably be best if it was opened for everyone," Harry went on as he began a bowl of cereal.
Ron took a look from Hermione who was sitting next to him. "What do you reckon?"
Hermione took a second to answer. "Well, it is as Harry said… we can do it if we really wanted. It could be a good thing."
Harry made a small grin. "Would you want to be a part of it?"
Hermione looked at Harry and rubbed her chin. "Well, it would be rude to say no to it because I know you want to do it"-
"I don't want to force you. But we can get newcomers into the sport. Get people really into it like you."
Hermione shrugged. "Maybe. I mean, I should be a bit more attentive in my boyfriend's hobby shouldn't I? you are of mine."
"What hobby is that?"
"Well, you have taken a liking to books recently…" Hermione said with a smile.
"True…"
"So perhaps I should take an interest in Quidditch. I think we should make up new signs but without the secret messages. I think this will be a great success Harry, I really do," Hermione said happily.
"Well then it's settled. We don't have to get content again so why not do it? I'll start tomorrow, I still need to meet up with Snape tonight for our lessons…"
The Occlumency lesson went by just as any other which more or less was a good thing. Harry didn't do any better than he did last week but he did manage to push Snape out of his mind two times but as soon as Harry ventured into the potion master's mind he was thrown right out. Harry didn't say anything about the glimpses of child Snape that he did manage to see which was obvious by the looks of adult Snape was a pretty good idea. Finally after two hours of perusing his mind Snape pocketed his wand and looked at Harry.
"You did poorly tonight Potter," he sneered.
"Sorry," Harry mumbled.
"Why were your defenses down tonight?"
"I don't know. I didn't know anything was bothering me this week."
"You are very much mistaken Mr. Potter. Trust me, I do not care about your teenage woes but I do not want them to interrupt your mind each night!" Snape spat.
"Nothing's bothering me! Why does everything think that?" Harry cried.
Snape roughly grabbed Harry by his chin and forced him to look at him. "Do not speak in my presence with that tone Mr. Potter or you will be very sorry indeed," he said quietly but very nasty all the same.
Harry didn't say anything but pulled his chin out of Snape's thin and strong fingers and glared.
"I know something is bothering you Potter but I do not wish to know what it is. I just want you to clear your mind each night and fight off the Dark Lord whenever he gets too near in your mind. Is that clear?"
Harry did not stop glaring but nodded and said, "Crystal."
The next week passed very quickly for Harry. Monday was spent with him, Ron and Hermione making signs for the Quidditch Club and posting it everywhere they could as well as telling fellow Gryfinndors about the club. Harry was also in a bundle of new nerves when Sirius talked to him for a few minutes on Tuesday night and told him that Helena and he would find out the sex of their child on the twenty-fifth. Harry tried to feel happy about this but couldn't. The only thing that kept him in happier spirits that week was the thought of spending Valentine's Day with Hermione in Hogsmeade this weekend.
He met with Remus on Thursday night where he found out Sirius and Helena were going to meet up with him in Remus' office Valentine's day because both had a gift they wanted to give the boy. Harry thought this was a bit stupid but he did admit to Remus he got something small for his guardians as well. He was now sitting in his bed Friday the thirteenth looking over at the gifts he was going to give Hermione tomorrow and shook his head with amusement. He couldn't believe his godfather talked him into giving him the gift and he hoped Hermione wouldn't think it was stupid. Knowing her, she would love it just because she was a girl. He looked at his other gift for her and smiled. This was something he was very proud of; he had spent a while making sure it was as perfect as he could get it. He was just about to get up to get ready for bed (he couldn't meet Hermione at night because she had prefect duty) when the door suddenly opened and Fred and George were standing in the doorway looking quiet mischievous in Harry's opinion.
"Um, hey guys," Harry said uncertainly.
"Hello little brother," smirked Fred.
"Um, what are you doing in here?" Harry asked.
"Oh so naive aren't you young one? You have to know there will be times in which you can trust us I hope you know," George said feigning looking hurt.
"Sorry you two but I doubt such an occasion can ever come up, no offense," Harry pointed out crossing his arms.
"True," Fred said nodding.
"So what are you doing here? I know Ron looked like an idiot trying to tell you two off about the Invisible Frisbees but that doesn't mean you can set off fireworks in his bed."
"Don't worry, we haven't done anything to our big-headed brother, yet," Fred said.
Harry still didn't look too convinced.
"Look mate, we just wanted to know what you were going to give Hermione for tomorrow," George said smiling a little too widely in Harry's opinion.
"Oh really?" Harry said.
"Really! Didn't we just tell you that you should trust us now and again?" Fred said wildly.
Harry rolled his eyes but did not say anything.
"C'mon, tell us what you've got planned. We won't laugh, promise," George said sincerely.
Harry sighed. "Fine, come over here…"
Harry opened his bedside cabinet and took out the two things. Fred grabbed one while George grabbed the other. A minute later they voiced their opinions.
"Are you sure you want to give her this mate? It's a bit, odd to give someone isn't it?" Fred laughed holding out the gift.
"Yes I'm sure. Sirius gave me the idea. He said my dad gave the same exact thing for my mum when they were celebrating Valentine's Day the first time," Harry explained turning a bit pink around the cheeks.
"But still…I know Hermione's a girl and will think it's cute but it's still a bit embarrassing to give someone."
Harry shook his head and turned to the gift George was holding. "Well? Do you think that one's all right at least?" he asked looking a bit panicked.
George looked lost for words. His eye appeared slightly glossy. "Harry, it's perfect. How did you do this? I would never have thought you'd be this creative. I didn't know you had such a romantic side mate," the redhead said lightly slugging Harry's shoulder.
"Hey, there's a lot you don't know about me. I do admit I am very proud of that gift without a doubt. I worked very hard to get it just right."
"What are you looking at? Let me see"- Fred said and ripped the gift his twin was holding and looked it over. "You weren't kidding Forge, this is romance at its best. Hermione is one lucky bird that's for sure."
"Okay you two give it back," Harry said angrily but they held it above their heads so he couldn't reach.
"You know what George? I was thinking we make things a bit interesting…" Fred said slyly.
"Ohh, I'm up for anything. What do you have in mind dear brother?" George said.
Fred looked at Harry then turned to his twin and whispered something in his ear. George smiled wide.
"That sounds perfect. He'll have to do it."
"Do what? What are you two planning this time?" Harry asked rubbing his eyes tiredly.
Both Weasleys gave each other a mischievous look then winked at Harry.
"Hey Harry, you love Hermione a lot don't you?" Fred said coming closer to 'his' little brother.
"Of course. Why? What are you scheming about this time?"
"Well, we wanted to know if you wanted to- ah, take your love to the next level so to say," George said slinging an arm around Harry.
"And what is this 'next level'?" Harry asked looking highly suspicious now.
"Oh nothing much, just a way to show a girl how much you like her," Fred passed off.
"I don't like the sounds of that. What are you planning?" Harry asked growing more and more impatient.
"Do you want to show Hermione how much you really love her?" George asked.
"Well of course I do and I already am with these two gifts."
"But we can make it a bit more interesting. We have a great idea on how you can show her how much you love her," Fred said happily.
Harry was getting more and more nervous as they talked. Whatever the twins were planning could not be good at all. Harry sat on his bed, crossed his legs and held onto his blue sock-covered feet.
"So let me get this straight, you'll help me show Hermione how much I love her tomorrow? Even more than what I originally had planned?"
"Yes," Fred said very enthusiastically.
"Absolutely!" George said just as excited.
"So you want me, Harry James Potter Lupin Black, to get help from two scheming pranksters such as yourself?" Harry emphasized.
"Yes!" Both of them said together.
"Forget it," Harry said.
"Aw c'mon Harry, we know how much you care about her, why not let us help you out with it?" Fred said looking almost desperate.
"I don't think it's the best idea to accept help from you two and you know what I mean."
"It is a very romantic idea Harry," George said thoughtfully.
Harry sighed. "Fine, tell me but only because I'm getting tired and want to be well-rested for tomorrow."
Fred and George whopped and Fred seized Harry by the shoulder and whispered something in his ear. Harry's eyes grew wide.
"What? I'm not going to do that! That's insane! And embarrassing!" Harry cried.
"But it's the perfect way to show her that you care! She'll love you even more for it!" Fred said in a very convincing manner.
"But people will laugh," Harry complained.
"So what? I doubt they'd have the guts to do this and it will make all the other blokes out there jealous that they couldn't have thought about doing something like this for their girlfriends instead," George pointed out.
Harry rubbed his chin. "You do have a point…"
"So you'll do it?" Fred said eagerly.
"Err..." Harry said biting his lip.
"It will make everyone jealous Harry mate," George added.
"Hermione will never leave you for sure if you do this!" Fred smiled.
"Think of it- people will think this is the most romantic thing ever for years!" George said.
Harry rubbed the back of his neck. "Well…fine," he said at last.
Fred and George cheered and thumped Harry hard on the back.
"I just have one question you two," Harry called when they were about to leave.
"Say it mate," said George.
"Why are you so interested in my love life? Why do you want me to do this?"
"To tell you the truth Harry, we have never seen a couple twice as happy as you and Hermione seem to be in our two extra years at this castle. We want to help out if we can," Fred said with such sincerity Harry could barely believe it.
"And since you are an unofficial Weasley brother we want to help you before anyone else. Just make sure you do go with this, got it?"
Harry sighed but nodded. "When should I do it?"
Both twins placed a hand on their chins in deep thought.
"After dinner tomorrow," they said together.
Harry inwardly groaned as soon as they left the dorm. A few minutes later Ron came up followed by Neville. Harry turned to look at Ron.
"Your brothers came up in here not too long ago," Harry told Ron.
"Oh really?" Ron said in the middle of taking out his pajamas from his trunk.
"Yeah, they kinda gave me this idea to show Hermione how much I love her tomorrow."
Ron didn't miss the dread in Harry's tone at all.
"Did they make you do anything?"
"No but they do have me cornered a bit with this idea of theirs. It's highly embarrassing on my part if I do it but they're expecting me to do it so I have to do it," Harry said shaking his head.
"So what did they make you do?" Ron asked.
Harry looked at Neville and now Dean and Seamus who had just walked in. He didn't want them to know just yet so he got up and whispered something in Ron's ear. Ron burst out laughing.
"They can't expect you to actually do that!" Ron cried.
"But they are and as crazy as it sounds a part of me really wants to go through with it! Just for Hermione's sake, not because I'm turning into some fancy, wanker, twit of a teenager," Harry said crossing his arms and glaring at Ron.
Ron's ears grew tomato red.
"I just want to make her happy. I am not turning into a romantic freak. Not at all," Harry said proudly.
Ron sniggered. "Better not say anything like that in front of Sirius. I have a feeling he's going to laugh his head off if he hears that."
"True, thanks for the tip."
Eventually all five boys settled down and went to sleep. When Harry awoke the next morning he was in a fit of nerves and excitement. Today was Valentine's Day and he had much planned. He looked out the window at the end of the dorm and his eyes grew wide. It was not blazing white it seemed. He hurried over to put his glasses on and returned to the window. The snow had melted and there was a thin layer of ice and dampness surrounding the grounds.
"Guess it's going to be a rainy day today," Harry said to himself as he stretched. He took time to get dressed just right. He dressed in a thick blue jumper and a thick jacket and after admiring his Quidditch boots like he did every morning he went off to breakfast, his gifts for Hermione and his guardians in his jacket pocket. He met up with Hermione in the Great Hall and they shared a kiss before digging into their bacon, eggs and toast. After breakfast Harry looked over to the staff table and saw Remus up their smiling wide. The man finished his porridge quickly and met the couple as soon as his bowl was cleared. Harry couldn't help but notice how excited his uncle appeared.
"Is something up?" Harry asked getting to his feet.
"No, I just want you to hurry up and meet me in my office. Sirius and Helena have been there for an hour at least."
"Um, okay. Er, is Hermione allowed to come too or what?" Harry asked gripping his girlfriend's hand.
"Sure thing, we aren't about to curse you so don't look too hesitant. C'mon," Remus said gesturing upstairs.
Harry gave Hermione a look but followed her to Remus' office. Sirius and Helena were in there talking but seized when they saw the three others walk in. Harry waved at them and gave his godfather an artificial smile then turned to Remus.
"So are we just going to give our gifts to each other now or what?" Harry asked.
"Yes!" Sirius said gleefully and was just about to turn around to grab something for Harry when Remus stopped him.
"Not yet Padfoot! We talked about this twenty times already. Right cub, what do you got for us?" Remus said with a smile.
"Um, it's nothing big because it's only Valentine's Day but I hope you like it either way," Harry mumbled and gave Sirius, Remus and Helena a small wrapped gift.
Sirius opened his; it was a dog shaped chocolate. He laughed. "Thanks kiddo, very nice indeed."
Remus unwrapped a small tin of chocolate brownies with red frosting and Helena received a chocolate heart filled with cherry filling.
"Like I said, it's not much but"- Harry began but was cut off.
"It's fine kid, I know this is still new," Sirius explained. "But remember, for the Potters every holiday had to be celebrated and that meant Valentine's Day. Small gifts were handed out between your grandparents and dad each year."
"Right. Um, I guess it's time for me to give you your gift now Hermione," Harry said turning to her.
Hermione smiled. "I guess so."
"It's pretty stupid, Sirius made me do it. I have a better gift waiting for you later but for now…" Harry trailed and handed her a red rose plus a flat gift wrapped in pink paper.
Hermione kissed him on the cheek for the rose then unopened the actual present. She gasped and covered her mouth.
"Oh Harry…"
"I know it's stupid but"-
Hermione shut him up by kissing him passionately on the lips then turned to her present. It was a small framed picture of a certain little boy bouncing on a harnessed hippogriff toy and roaring with laughter, two sharp teeth poking out of his bottom gums. A few seconds later a black cat with white paws came into view and sniffed the baby's plump little bare foot and rubbed against it.
"Remus had this picture forever. I was thirteen months old in that picture. That was our cat when I was with my parents. His name was Domino. My dad gave my mum a picture of him as a baby their first Valentine's Day together. It's nothing big but I thought you might like it," Harry said looking very Weasley red.
"You look so adorable Harry! Look at you! Those tiny little teeth, your messy hair, and those eyes!" Hermione squealed.
"Yes it's very adorable- c'mon Moony! I want to give Harry our present now!" Sirius complained.
"Just a minute. Hermione needs to give Harry her gift now," Remus said scowling at his friend's immature notions.
Sirius rolled his eyes and tapped his foot impatiently. Hermione smiled and handed Harry her gift for him. It was a giant red heart-shaped box filled with two layers of candy; the first included five different flavors of chocolate truffles and beneath this was a layer of fudge.
"Oh wow, this looks wonderful. Thanks 'Mione," Harry said and kissed her.
"Now is it our turn?" Sirius asked heavily.
"Okay, calm down Padfoot, yes it is. Now Harry, I know you are going to be very surprised when you see what we give you but it's from the pure goodness of our hearts. It's a tad bigger than candy and a bit more exciting and you should really enjoy it," Remus said slyly.
Harry looked at them questionably. "Do you know what he got me?" Harry asked Helena.
"I do yes. You'll really like it," Helena beamed.
Harry looked excited and puzzled at the same time.
"Now shut your eyes Harry, we don't want you to see it. And sit on this chair," Sirius instructed and pushed Harry down into a seat by Remus' desk.
"What on earth do you have planned?" Harry asked looking clearly wrong footed now.
"No questions just instructions. Now shut your eyes! No peeking!" Sirius rushed.
Harry sighed but followed the orders. Making sure Harry couldn't see anything Remus went over and grabbed the present and walked over to Harry.
"You can open your eyes when you feel it in your hands," Remus said and placed the present carefully in the boy's hands.
Harry let out a yelp when he felt something as soft as cotton drop into his hand. He opened his eyes and gasped; a fluffy kitten was resting in his hands with a red bow tied around her neck.
"Are- I- are you serious?" Harry cried.
"Yes!" Sirius and Remus said nodding eagerly.
"But- but"- Harry stammered. "But- you said- but- I don't know what to say!"
"She's beautiful!" Hermione cried looking at the snow ball. The kitten was fluffy with a dark face like a Siames and had light brown feet and tail. She looked up at Harry with huge blue eyes that melted the boy's heart.
"You have got to be kidding me!" he said at last then holding the cat in one hand he gave each of his guardians a strong hug that nearly knocked the wind out of them.
"She's called a Rag Doll," Sirius explained.
"A what?" Harry asked but Hermione let out a gasp.
"Oh! My grandparents have two of these! They are the most affectionate cats you'll see Harry! May I hold her?" Hermione said looking very, very happy.
"Um, sure," Harry said and handed the kitten to her. "Why is it called a rag doll?" Harry asked.
"Because many of these cats go limp in your arms when you hold them. Look"- Hermione said and held the kitten like a baby where she closed her eyes and looked extremely comfortable.
"Wow, Weinki would be caught dead before he ever did that," Harry gasped. He then turned to his godfather and uncle. "Why though? Why did you give me another cat?"
"Well you have been asking about one non-stop for a while now Harry. At first I did agree with Moony over hear about getting one for your sixteenth birthday but then he told me how much you seemed to really want one after speaking with you a few times at school so he contacted me one night and we decided you are responsible enough to have another cat," Sirius went into detail.
"But you seemed to make it very clear that I wasn't going to get another one," Harry said.
"Well it seemed you weren't going to back down so we did the number one rule breaker in the guide to parenting and gave into you finally," Sirius said shaking his head.
"Now I know it's not a black one like you wanted and I know it's not a he but when we saw this breed we had to buy it," Remus explained now petting the cat's head.
"How did you find out about this breed?" Harry asked.
"I saw it in a cat book of Helena's one day and asked her about it. From there I showed Moony over here what it was when I saw him one night and we agreed it was the perfect cat for you. Then I called a few breeders in the area and searched for the perfect one that would suit you. This little girl was the smallest of her brothers and sisters, a litter of seven kittens. When the breeder showed me to her newest litter this kitty was the first one to come up to me and I knew she was the one," Sirius told Harry.
"I bet she cost a lot if it's a pure-bred cat," Harry said.
"Well of course we aren't going to go into that are we?" Sirius emphasized slyly.
"So, happy?" Remus asked.
"Without a doubt. She is gorgeous. Thank-you again so much you two. Wow, another cat," Harry said looking at his new kitten.
Hermione smiled and gave the kitten back to her new master. The kitten rubbed against Harry's chin and began to purr.
"She sure does like people," Harry noted beaming.
"They are known for how affectionate they are," Hermione said.
"Dang, why did you have to give me her right now? Now I don't want to go to Hogsmeade, I want to get to know her and her know me all day," Harry said sitting back in the chair as he cuddled his cat.
"Well we don't have to go if you don't want to," Hermione told Harry.
"No, we'll go. C'mon, miss an actual date with my girlfriend for a cat? That's stupid."
"Um Harry, there is one thing you have to keep in mind," Remus told the boy.
"What's that?" Harry giggled as the kitten tickled his chin with her whiskers.
"Rag dolls don't do very well outside. So don't be surprised if she stays in Gryffindor Tower all the time," Remus said.
"Really? Well that's fine. Now I know I'll never lose my cats, Weinki is a big wuss and only explores the seventh floor before begging to come back into the common room. Thanks a lot again you guys, you really didn't have to do this," Harry said gratefully.
"Yes we did, we want you to be happy. You deserve happy surprises, we don't want you to forget that," Sirius clapped a hand to Harry's thin shoulder.
"What are you going to call her Harry?" Hermione asked happily.
Harry looked at the kitten's brown masked face with blue eyes boring into his green ones. It really was hard not to miss how beautiful this cat was and the cat seemed to notice her beauty as well, just like Hedwig so often did. Harry stroked her, thinking. Just then a name popped into his head. He said it to himself in his mind a few times and it seemed to stick.
He cocked a crooked smile and answered, "Her name is Sabrina."
"That's beautiful," Hermione commented as she petted the cat again.
"Well now that we have all given each other our gifts I think it's time we head off to Hogsmeade, what do you say?" Remus said clapping his hands together and looking around pleasantly.
"Yeah, that sounds good. What did you give each other?" Harry asked looking at hid godfather and Healer.
"Your godfather gave me a singing frog and a box of chocolate dipped strawberries," Helena said rolling his eyes.
"Hey, you told me 'Loving you forever' by Kiki Warrostitch is your favorite love song!" Sirius complained.
"It is but didn't they have anything cuter than a frog at the shop you got it from?"
"It was either that or a singing snake," Sirius grumbled.
"I'll take the frog," Helena said.
"And um, Helena here gave me um, some undergarment with um, love-related patterns," Sirius mumbled looking horrified.
Harry let out a laugh.
"They were underwear, socks and a pair of pajamas with hearts on them," Remus said chuckling.
Sirius whipped out his wand about to strike his old friend but Helena raised her own at Sirius in a threatening manner.
"You don't need to curse him into oblivion Siri."
Sirius growled at Remus who growled back and put his wand away in his coat again.
"Are we going or not?" Harry said impatiently.
"You two go ahead, put Sabrina in your dorm Harry. We'll meet you for lunch in the Three Broomsticks if we don't see you anytime soon," Remus said.
Harry nodded and in one hand grasped Hermione's and in the other held Sabrina close to his chest and walked out of the classroom only to run into Ron. He was just coming down the stairs of the boy's dorm and his eyebrows rose when he saw what Harry was holding.
"Where did that cat come from?" Ron gasped looking at the rag doll kitten who was contently purring in Harry's arm.
"Oh, Sirius and Remus just gave me her as a gift," Harry had to smile.
"They gave you him? Why?" Ron said eyes wide in shock.
"It's a her not a him Ron. They gave me her for Valentine's Day," Harry knew it sounded stupid.
" For Valentine's Day? Why?"
"Tradition I guess," Harry shrugged.
"Why? I never gave my parents gifts for Valentine's Day; at least I haven't since I was six. Why on earth did they give you a cat? You already have another one of those monsters in the common room," Ron asked crossly.
"Weinki isn't a monster!" Harry and Hermione said together.
Ron looked affronted; he didn't think they would react in such a way about such a furry little beast.
"He is too a monster, I have a nice-sized scratch from him I hope you know!" Ron said indicating his arm.
Harry rolled his eyes. "And so do I. Plenty in fact. It's what cats do. It's what a lot of animals do really."
"Well he's not mine so he shouldn't scratch me," Ron said glaring.
"My goodness are we really discussing this?" Hermione cried widely.
"I just can't believe Harry has another pest!" Ron shouted.
"Weinki isn't a- well, yeah he's a pest but in a good way," Harry said as Sabrina cuddled his chin.
"Now that creature is going to scalp me alive too!" Ron pointed.
"I highly doubt it," Hermione said in a very bookish way. "This breed is called a rag doll."
"A rag…doll?" Ron said looking as if he was about to laugh. "Like those toys Muggle kids like to play with?"
"They're called a rag doll because they flop in your arms when you hold them, like a rag doll toy does. They are very friendly."
"But it's so fluffy; I don't think fluffy cats are a good mix with me. Crookshanks hates me."
"Ron all cats hate you. He along with Weinki both know that you don't like them so they don't like you back," Hermione pointed out.
Ron looked doubtful. "So uh, you have a name for her?"
"I do. I'm calling her Sabrina," Harry answered.
Ron didn't say anything.
"Well listen, I have to put her in my bed so she doesn't run off. Not like she would, Remus told me these cats don't like the outdoors much. After that then we can finally go into Hogsmeade," Harry said.
"Great, I'll wait for you to come down!" Ron said happily.
Hermione and Harry shared a very questionable look.
"Er, what do you mean?" Harry asked the redhead carefully.
"Well we are going to Hogsmeade aren't we?" Ron asked.
"Well, yeah," Harry said slowly.
"So why do you look like that?" Ron said.
"Um, well, you want to go to Hogsmeade too?" Harry said.
"Yeah…I think we all need a break from this castle for a day don't we? Why do you look so questionable mate?"
Harry and Hermione shared another look.
"But Ron, why would you want to come with us?" Hermione asked.
"Damnit because I want some fresh air and relaxation too!" Ron yelled.
"But Ron, it was just going to, you know, be us two," Harry said standing very close to Hermione.
"And me, like it always is," Ron added.
"No Ron, we were kinda hoping that, you know, it was just going to be us…" Harry said and took a hold of Hermione's hand to show the redhead exactly what he meant.
"Just- what?" Ron said slowly but then his eyes traveled from how close Harry and Hermione's bodies were, how they were holding each other's gloved hands tightly and the almost mournful look in their eyes. It then hit him; they wanted to go into Hogsmeade together as a couple, not with him around.
"Oh," he said shortly.
"We would've wanted you to come with us but well, funny enough, after five months of dating we both haven't really been on an actual date yet and now that we have this weekend for Hogsmeade we thought, well, we'd date," Hermione said looking fearful of what Ron might say.
"I got it," he snarled then stuffed his hands in his pockets and marched off.
Hermione tried to run after him but Harry held her back.
"But Harry"-
"Just let him go. If we're ever going to last he has to get used to the fact we want to be alone together at times. Let's just head off so I can try to have some fun," Harry said heavily.
Harry and Hermione walked onward to the wizard village, arms looped around each other. When they reached the entrance Harry turned around to face Hermione, a guilty look on his face.
"Now what?" Hermione sighed.
"Um, I forgot to tell you, since we're here I was kinda going to shop for a gift for Helena and Madam Pomfrey because you know, it's their birthdays in a couple weeks."
Hermione smiled. "It's okay, I don't mind at all."
"Really? But we're supposed to be on a date."
"And we are, when are you going to have time to buy them a birthday gift besides today?"
"True," Harry smiled.
The two of them began to walk down the streets hand in hand both feeling nervous for some odd reason. They held onto each other's hands and Hermione leaned into Harry's arm to get warmer in the chilly air yet they both felt strange.
This is too weird; I've been going out with her for five months so why do I all of a sudden feel so nervous? Said a small voice in Harry's head. Because you have never been on a real date before that's why said another. Harry shook his head and stopped walking.
"So um, what do you want to do first?" he asked Hermione.
"Oh, I don't know. People usually go out to eat or to a cinema on dates but as there aren't any around…what do you want to do?" Hermione asked.
Harry looked around; the village of Hogsmeade seemed different in the perspective of a person who was dating for the first time.
"How 'bout we go to the bookshop?" Harry suggested.
"Are you just saying that to make me happy?" Hermione asked.
"No, you said so yourself- I seem to have a fondness of books lately. C'mon, I'd like to see if there's anything there."
"Oh fine," Hermione said with a smile and the two of them headed off to a large bookshop called The Golden Bookmark. It was toasty warm when they walked in. Harry pulled out his money bag and swung it around as the both of them began to look around. Harry had no idea what his Healer and matron read so he thought it might be best to not risk getting them anything here. Hermione hurried off to a section that boasted ancient magic and Harry sat in a chair as he pursued the latest issue of Quidditch Views. Hermione frowned when he went off to sit down and hurried over to the chair next to him with a heavy book in her hand.
"If we're dating we shouldn't be separated," Hermione told him wisely.
"Er, right, sorry."
"It's fine," Hermione said perky and opened her large volume and began to read.
"Um, you aren't going to read that whole thing are you?" Harry asked a few minutes later.
"Oh no, even I can't read 1,200 pages in one sitting. I'm just going to read the first chapter to see if I like it."
"And if you do? I'll buy it for you"- Harry offered taking hold of his money bag.
"Don't you think about Harry. Are you going to buy that magazine?"
"Yeah."
"Then why are you reading it? You're going to suck up the enjoyment of it then!"
"I have to read something. I was going to buy this along with the latest issues of World of Owls and Defensive Magic Digest."
Hermione smiled. "You are too predictable Harry. The only thing missing is a magazine on dragons."
"They have plenty but I don't want to blow my money on things for myself. I still have no idea what to get my Healers."
Hermione nodded and went back to her book. It wasn't a very romantic start on their date but both of them had a great time in the bookshop before they headed off to Gladrags Wizardwear to try on a bunch of robes for fun. Thankfully the owners of the shop enjoyed young witches and wizards coming in and allowed them to try things on even though they knew they weren't going to buy anything there.
"Oh look Harry! This would be perfect for my twenty-fist birthday!" Hermione exclaimed as she came out of the dressing room and stood in front of the large mirrors wearing a witch's version of a formal dress. It was midnight blue and had real diamonds glittering on it.
"Oh its very fine if I do say so myself," Harry said winking as he came out of the dressing room in a very nice velvet set of robes that were forest green. "May I?" he asked and giggling, Hermione took his hand and the two spun around like idiots in the shop.
"Oh they are precious Bob!" the female owner of the shop cried when she saw Harry and Hermione having fun with the robes.
"Ah, they are Suzie, reminds me of us when we were young," smiled the male owner of the shop.
Harry and Hermione thanked the couple for trying on several sets of robes before laughing; they clambered back out in the cold.
"Oh that was fun!" Hermione beamed as they walked down the street.
"Really? We sure looked like idiots. When Fred walked in with Angelina he was laughing his head off."
"Yeah but the important thing about a relationship is you have fun," Hermione said and giggling she pushed Harry hard enough for him to slip into some melting snow.
"Hey!" he shouted as his bottom got wet.
Hermione laughed. "Sorry but the moment was too perfect."
Harry growled but got up and tried to push Hermione in the snow but she leapt away and he fell down again, his glasses sliding off his face.
"This is not funny 'Mione. I don't like getting wet when I don't need to."
"But in Quidditch…"
"Well I need to get wet then and it doesn't bother me."
"Because you know I'll be there to warm you up after each practice and game don't you?" Hermione touched his pink nose.
Harry gave her a crooked smile, "Yeah, that."
Hermione was still laughing as she helped her boyfriend to his feet and they continued down the road.
"I thought your gorgeous perfect never-to-be-harmed boots were meant to never slip," Hermione pointed out.
"I didn't slip, you pushed me!" Harry said.
"But you didn't catch yourself in time."
"I can have clumsy moments too I hope you know. It's not my boots' fault, it's my feet."
Hermione shook her head in amusement and the two of them walked over to Honeyduke's before they headed off to the Three Broomsticks for lunch. Hermione rolled her eyes when she saw Harry's eyes lit up like a toddler's when they walked into the crowded shop. Harry wasted no time gathering a little plastic basket to place all his items inside. Hermione frowned when Harry insisted he'd buy her whatever sweets she wanted. All she wanted was a jumbo size bucket of peppermint cream frogs and she's be the happiest person around. Harry bought said item as well as Helena's favorite sweet there then spent a good two galleons and two sickles on sweets for himself. Hermione looked at him accusingly when they walked out of the shop.
"What? It's always good to stock up right? We won't be coming back here until April or so."
"I know but I still think it's a lot of money to spend on sweets Harry. Oh what's the point? You don't listen to me anyway."
"I hope you aren't trying to have a pointless row with me Hermione," Harry said flatly.
"I'm not. Never mind, let's get a table in the Three Broomsticks before they're all filled up."
Harry agreed and took one of the last tables in the pub while Hermione went and got menus. Harry looked around and saw that his guardians had not yet arrived, not like it bothered him. He took off his scarf and gloves and folded his hands on top of the table and looked around at the people passing by him with mild interest. He was busy staring at his fingernails of his right hand when he suddenly felt someone sit next to him. He jumped out of his booth when he realized who it was; Rita Skeeter. He gasped and looked around as if expecting someone to explain what had just happened but found no one giving him answers so he slowly turned his head to the woman.
"What are you doing here?" he snapped at her.
"Harry! Hello again! Fancy seeing you here!" she said in a falsely cherry tone.
Harry looked at her but could not say the same; her clothes were in tatters, her hair was a mess and the maroon paint on her fake talons was chipped.
Reckon not spilling lies about people in the Prophet isn't suiting her, Harry said in his mind.
"I asked what you are doing here," Harry said calmly again.
"Oh I was just off to interview- oh it doesn't matter. What matters is I found you here funny enough! Both out for a hot drink it seems hm?" Rita said rubbing her chin.
"Get away from me," Harry said looking revolted at her.
"Now, now Harry, the public won't want to hear you speaking to someone like me in that tone would they? I was wondering, that is if you agree which you must- would you care to have a little time alone with me? Give me your views on the outcome of Ms. Umbridge perhaps?" she asked taking out her crocodile skin handbag.
"I'm not telling you anything. My guardians have explicit instructions for the ministry to forbid anyone interviewing me for anything," Harry snapped at her.
"That's the beauty of it Harry! I don't work with them anymore! But maybe if you tell me what life has been like living with such atrocious people and"-
"My guardians are not atrocious!" Harry roared at her and got to her feet.
Several people looked around to see what the commotion was but Harry didn't care. He whipped out his wand but at that moment Hermione stepped into the picture.
"Harry! (Gasp) Rita Skeeter!" Hermione cried and dropped her menus.
Rita laughed as Hermione went to pick them up, Harry helping.
"What are you doing bugging Harry like this? You can't talk to him without talking to his guardians first!" Hermione cried at the blonde woman.
Rita laughed and winked. "Oh you silly girl, you do not know what I can and cannot do. You have no business here. Away with you!"
"I do so have business here as Harry is my boyfriend," Hermione said but suddenly gasped and covered her mouth.
Rita practically fell out of her seat. "Gi-girlfriend? Harry Potter has a girlfriend? Oh the rumors are true! Oh won't you like to tell me all the details Miss Granger? When did you begin this secret relationship? How long have you been together? Is this your first girlfriend Mr. Potter?" Rita said hurriedly as she loaded up her quill and notepad.
They were interrupted when Sirius, Remus and Helena came up behind them. Sirius looked ready to curse the ex-journalist.
"What are you doing here? You have no business near my godson or anyone remotely close to him what-so-ever!" Sirius snarled in her face.
"I- well I wasn't technically doing anything wrong Mr. Black," Rita stammered.
"Then kindly step away from him before we force you to," Remus said taking his wand out of his cloak slowly.
"Now this is preposterous! I only wished to interview young Harry here about recent events! The public wants to know!" she declared.
"I'm sure they do but you are breaking a rule with the ministry right now- we had it set for months now that no one is allowed to talk to Harry without coming to one of his guardians first," Remus said carefully.
Rita stood up to full height and glared. "Now really, this is insane! You must've gotten the wrong impression of me! There are matters to discuss with Mr. Potter! I'll even share the profits with you!"
"My godson is non-profitable," Sirius growled.
Rita looked at Harry and his highly agitated family and friends. She huffed and stormed out of the pub. Remus shook his head and took a seat next to Harry and everyone else slowly sat down too.
"I'm sorry that happened cub, you know she has no right to talk to you," Remus said heavily.
"Don't worry, she didn't do anything. Thanks," Harry said when Hermione handed him a menu.
No one said anything for a few minutes but looked at their menus long and hard. Once the owner of the inn, Madam Rosemerta, came and wrote down their orders the five of them sat and stared at one another. Helena decided to begin conversation.
"So what have you done so far Harry and Hermione?" she asked with a smile.
"Oh, a few things," Harry said looking at his napkin.
"Oh, um, care to venture what those things are?" she asked in a nervously cherry tone.
"Just a few things," Harry said again.
Everyone looked at Harry all clearly puzzled on why he was acting the way he was. Hermione folded the napkin on her lap and turned to Helena.
"We went to the Golden Bookmark then had fun trying on loads of robes at Gladrag's then went to stock up on sweets at Honeyduke's," Hermione explained, glancing at Harry to see if he was glaring in her direction which thankfully he wasn't.
"Oh that sounds like fun. It looks like you both bought some things on your date so far. Are they for each other?" Helena said brightly.
"No, Harry just bought himself a few magazines and sweets. I just got a jumbo sized box of toothflossing stringmints for my parents. They're both dentists so they like anything that cleans your teeth. They particularly like those mints."
"Oh- your father is Harry's dentist is he?" Helena said remembering this bit of info.
"Well both he and my mother have been taking turns with him so far," Hermione explained.
"What do you mean?" Helena asked sipping a glass of water.
"Well, my mother is a dentist and my father is the orthodontist but my mum hasn't been able to do all the work, she's been busy. My dad had to fill in for her."
Harry sighed as he tried not to listen to his girlfriend and his Healer talk about him. He hated when people talked about him, even if they were saying good things. Madam Rosemerta came with their lunch five minutes later and Harry couldn't be happier. He now had an excuse to not talk with anyone. Unfortunately everyone else seemed to notice he wasn't talking. He was just slowly eating his chicken sandwich and hadn't looked up once.
"Is something bothering you cub?" Remus asked cautiously.
"I'm fine Remus," Harry said then went back to his food.
"You sure don't seem like it," Sirius commented.
"I said I'm fine!" Harry snapped at him.
"Harry please don't ruin today for any of us by shouting," Sirius said carefully yet to the point.
Harry didn't say anything but turned to Hermione. "Where do you want to go after lunch?"
"Oh, um, I don't know. Wherever you want to Harry," she said looking wrong footed.
Harry nodded then turned to his uncle. "How has your book been going along lately Moony? I've been meaning to ask but I seem to always forget."
Remus smiled at the mention of his book. "It's doing very well Harry. I am terribly excited when I have it published."
"You're that close to finishing it?" Helena gasped.
"Oh no, I'm just saying in general. I'm still writing at it and planning things out. Well I have the planning laid out I just need to write the ideas down."
"Do you know when you think it will be finished?" Harry asked.
"I'm not saying yet. I have no idea. I want to take my time on it to make sure it's perfect," Remus said.
Sirius shook his head in amusement. "I still can't believe my ol' Moony is writing a book. I mean, we all knew you were smart during our Hogwarts days but we never would have thought you'd be smart enough to write a book."
"I think it's a very honorable thing he's writing a book, and from what I heard from Harry it's supposed to be very good," Hermione said turning a bit pink for talking to Sirius that way.
"Why thank-you Hermione," Remus said smiling.
Thankfully everyone ended the meal in good spirits a half hour later. Harry shook hands with Helena and nodded at Sirius slightly before waving at Remus and walking up the street with Hermione.
"Harry- you're walking too fast," Hermione gasped a moment later as she tried to keep up with him.
"Sorry but it's really cold out. I want to go someplace warm," Harry said over his shoulder.
Hermione ran up and stood in front of Harry causing him to halt.
"What is your problem?" Hermione said crossly.
"What do you mean?"
"It seemed to me that you are trying to get away from your guardians as soon as you possibly can."
"I told you, it's cold out," Harry mumbled angrily.
"It was just as cold out before we went to lunch but we weren't running around then," Hermione pointed out.
"I just don't want to talk about it now. Let's enjoy our date all right? The next time we have is not until the spring."
Hermione looked at him but nodded. "Yes, that sounds fine. Ohh, let's go to Scrivenshaft's!" she beamed.
"Do we have to?" Harry complained as she held onto his arm and dragged him to the quill shop.
"Yes we have to. I need a new quill."
"What's wrong with that black one of yours?"
"It's old. And it's ugly. I want a real pretty one."
Hermione smiled and dragged him into the shop. They (AKA, Hermione) spent forever looking at different quills before finally resting on an eagle feather quill. Hermione paid for it before Harry held her back.
"I just found a really nice quill I think Helena might really like…" he said and picked up a really luxurious red colored quill with golden strands in it.
"Wow, it's really pretty," Hermione said.
"I know. Yeah, I think I'll buy her this for her birthday. This along with that huge box of exploding strawberry chocolates will be perfect."
Hermione watched as Harry paid for the quill then the two of them went back out in the cold. It was now raining. Harry turned to Hermione.
"Let's go into Dervish and Bangs, see if I can find something there for Madam Pomfrey."
Hermione was more than willing, her hair was already frizzing up. They both hurried off into the huge shop. Harry shook his wet hair and looked around.
"Do you even know what you want to get her?" Hermione asked.
"Um, not really. I only know her favorite candy but that's about it. Um, this might be hard…" Harry could feel his face heat up which did not go unnoticed by Hermione. She smiled and looped an arm around his that was in his pocket.
"I think it's nice you're getting her something. Like you said, because of you she isn't as harsh. You'll find something."
Hermione followed behind Harry as he looked around the shop for something that would work out as a great gift for the matron. Nothing seemed to scream out at him as a good gift. He looked in his money bag, he had four galleons left. With this in mind he looked for something that would cost just that. He found a very nice picture frame but he didn't know if Poppy had a picture she would want to put in it. They walked around the crowded shop for what felt like an hour, Harry was feeling highly frustrated by now. He wished he talked with the nurse more often that way he might know what she would want. He sighed and sat down at a bench, Hermione next to him.
"What do you think she would want Harry?"
"I don't know."
"Well what do you know about her?" Hermione pressed on.
"She likes rabbits, the color red, and a very fine wine now and again," Harry said bluntly.
"Well, you can't buy wine, you're under age. Something with rabbits or red is the best guess. Buy her that picture frame! You said it looked really nice and I agree."
"But it's so informal. It just proves I don't know what to get her," Harry argued.
"Then a nice bath soap or lotion…"
"Naw…"
Hermione crossed her arms. "I still say go with the frame. Everyone has a reason to use a frame. You don't know if she has a cherished photo in a box under her bed that's waiting to be displayed in her office."
"That's true…"
"Oh just get it Harry. I'm really cold and want to stop by somewhere for a hot drink."
Harry agreed and got up and bought a mahogany picture frame for nine sickles and was just about to head out when he felt Hermione tug his sleeve.
"What?" he asked.
"I found something really nice! It'll be a great present for Helena," she said excitedly.
"I already have two gifts for her."
"I know you do but I just want to show you- oh, just come here."
Harry sighed but allowed her to user him back to the magical photograph section of the shop which sold frames, albums, cameras and any other necessity for photographs. Hermione showed him a photo album. It was a deep red and had the words 'baby's first year' stamped in gold across it. Harry gasped.
"Isn't it pretty? You should give Helena this instead. Give Madam Pomfrey the quill and Helena this album," Hermione said gleefully.
Harry was in a state of shock; a photo album for the baby? That was taking things a bit too far. Hermione looked at him critically, wondering why he wasn't saying anything.
"Harry? Isn't this nice? I know she'd really love it, plus it's very thoughtful."
"Um, ye-yeah, it is."
"So? Why don't you get her it?"
"Um, I dunno, it looks expensive. I only have three galleons and ten sickles left."
"Oh look! It's marked down, one galleon six sickles!" she said flipping the album over to see the price.
"No, I don't want to give her that," Harry said firmly.
"But"-
"I think Sirius might give her something like that."
"How do you know? He's her boyfriend, I think he'd opt to give her something romantic," Hermione argued.
"Yeah well, its- I mean, well…I just don't want to give her that. Maybe for her baby shower but um, just, not now all right?" Harry struggled to say.
Hermione looked at him funny but nodded and walked out with him. They held onto each other's hands as they walked up the street. Hermione knew something was on his mind but thought it was best to wait for him to tell her what was wrong when he was ready. They didn't say anything until she turned to him to ask where they should get a hot drink.
"I dunno, anywhere I guess."
"How about Madam Puddifoot's? I hear it's a great place for couples to go to," Hermione said beaming ear-to-ear.
Harry wanted to go back to the Three Broomsticks for a butterbeer but since he had never heard of this tearoom and Hermione seemed really happy about this idea he decided to go there. When they reached the shop they both gasped; everything was covered in lace and little cherubs where flying over everyone spilling confetti everywhere. Couples from Hogwarts were all holding hands or kissing each other over their little tables.
"Um, let's grab a seat then I guess," Hermione said in a nervous voice and they sat down at the last table available. Madam Puddifoot, the owner of the shop came bustling over a moment later. She wore her hair in a black bun and smiled at the newest arrivals.
"Hello, what might I get you my dears?" she asked, quill and pad of paper ready.
"Um, two coffees," Hermione answered.
She nodded and went off to get them ready. Hermione turned to Harry who was looking down at his folded arms which rested on the table. She touched his arm.
"Harry, is something bothering you?" she asked carefully.
"Why does everyone keep asking me that?" he asked solemnly.
"Well, you've been a bit short with everyone lately and well, we're just worried about you."
"There's nothing to worry about. If you must know… it's the same stuff. Nothing new."
"Well I'm here… when you want to talk." She rubbed his hand with a thumb and gave him a small smile. Harry looked into Hermione's eyes and she did back; before they knew it they were just another one of the couple's kissing in the teashop, a happy little cherub sprinkling confetti as they held onto each other, not noticing their coffee until many minutes later.
Harry was in higher spirits when he and Hermione returned to school. Talking with Hermione over hot coffee and chocolate truffles from Honeyduke's was pure bliss. Harry quickly scurried off to Gryffindor Tower where students were now heading out of for dinner just so he could check his new kitten to make sure she was okay. Ron was one of the people he bumped into at the entrance. Ron gave fluffy Sabrina a glare then moodily went down for supper. The room was decorated in ludicrous Valentine themed balloons, streamers and confetti. Most likely the works of Fred and George. The pink and red balloons kept popping and re-inflating themselves and zoomed around the room as did the steamers which made it look like paper-thin serpents were flying in the air.
Oh crap, dinner is right now and after that they're going to expect me to do that highly embarrassing thing for Hermione in front of everyone! I completely forgot! Oh crap, it's so soon. I sure hope I can keep my food down long enough to get this ridiculous 'dare' over with, Harry said mournfully in his mind.
He then set Sabrina down on his favorite sofa in the common room and looked at her. He smiled, she was very beautiful. He had to make sure to give her a proper introduction to his other two pets later before he headed off to dinner. He gave Remus, who was talking with Professor Flitwick, a glance then sat down next to Hermione and most unfortunately, Fred. He had the impression the twins sat next to Hermione because they knew Harry sat next to her every meal and tonight he would be nudged into reminder of the thing they wanted him to do.
"Um, hey," Harry said to them as he took his seat.
"Hello little brother. We saved you a seat!" George said pleasantly.
"Yeah, thanks," Harry muttered and went to serve himself a plate of Sheppard's pie.
Dinner was a very normal affair except for the expected nudges now and again from Fred.
"Stop it!" Harry finally hissed at him.
"Hey, I just hit your elbow on accident," Fred said in alarm.
"Yeah, right," Harry said, spooning scalloped potatoes into his mouth.
"Why does he keep pushing you?" Hermione asked Harry.
"I don't know," Harry said.
"Well it's very rude. He really shouldn't be bothering you for no reason," Hermione said highly annoyed.
"Please, it's no big deal," Harry said then took a long dreg of his juice and turned back to her. "Er, listen 'Mione, I'm going to head off to the common room now."
"What? But you only ate half your dinner and there's still apple pie after that."
"Yeah well, I'm full. Too many sweets I guess from Honeyduke's," Harry said with a false smile.
"So you're just going to leave?"
"Yeah, I want to hang with Sabrina for a bit until all the noise of a hundred Gryffindors comes bursting into the room."
"True," Hermione said thoughtfully. "Well do you want me to bring you up a slice of apple pie then?"
"Yeah, that'd be great, thanks," Harry said and caught Fred and George's eye as he kissed her cheek. They snickered at him and he angrily walked back to Gryffindor Tower. When he stepped inside he was surprised to see Sabrina mewing at him and curled around his legs. He bent to pick her up. "Why thank-you very much for that Sabrina. That was unexpected."
She rubbed her face on his cheek and he set her down again. Harry did want to play with Sabrina but he knew he had to get ready for the thing the twins were expecting to do. Sighing, he went up to his bed and pulled out Hermione's second gift from his bedside table. He did think it was a pretty nice thing but not as wonderful as the twins' made it out to be.
I mean, anyone can do it if they try, Harry said in his mind. I wonder when they expect me to do it. As soon as everyone comes back or when everyone is getting ready for bed? It's not like one is better or worse than the other.
All too soon he heard people begin to fill into the room below him. Thankfully no one went up to their dorm just yet, he didn't want to be discovered for some reason. He paced the dormitory back and forth several times and jumped when he heard the door open; Dean and Seamus walked in.
"Hey Harry, why did you leave dinner so early?" Dean asked.
"Oh! Um, wasn't real hungry," Harry passed off.
"Oh, I know, you can't help but eat a lot whenever you go to Hogsmeade huh? Well Hermione is coming back up here soon. She's just sharing a word with Professor Lupin," Dean said.
"Er, right. Thanks."
"Hey Harry, what's that?" Seamus asked, pointing to the gift he was holding.
"Oh! N-nothing!" Harry stammered, holding the thing close to his chest to shield it from view.
"Something for Hermione isn't it?" Dean said smirking.
"I- what makes you say that?" Harry questioned.
"You seem to be really cherishing it. What is it?"
"You- I- you'll find out soon," was all Harry could say and he looked defeated when he said it.
Dean and Seamus looked excited and were just about to say something else when the door opened again and Fred and George came in.
"Oh, hello, didn't know Harry would want company right now," George said noticing the other two fifth years.
"It's fine, really," Harry told them.
"Yes well, could you two nip downstairs for a bit? We just would like a word with little Harry right now," Fred said slyly.
"Um, sure, see ya Harry," Dean said and he followed Seamus out.
"Look- I know what you two are going to say already so you don't have to say it," Harry said wearily.
"We just wanted to make sure you weren't feeling nervous or anything," Fred shrugged.
"I am feeling nervous! I'm about to recite a poem in front of a hundred classmates!" Harry hissed.
"But it's for Hermione mate! No one else will ever think of doing this," George argued.
"Because it's embarrassing!"
"Listen here mate; you don't have to do it if you don't want to. It was just an idea we had that you might want to head into to show Hermione how much you really like her. We understand if you don't want to do this," George said looking sympathetic.
Harry sighed and sat down on his bed. "I have to go through with this. I've already made up my mind; and you two know I hardly ever back down form anything."
"Which isn't a great thing to be frank," Fred whispered to George who nodded.
"I have to do this," Harry said getting to his feet.
"You- you really are?" Fred's eyes were wide.
"I am," Harry said confidently.
"Whoo-hoo!" The twins triumphed and gave each other a high-five then patted Harry hard on the back.
"We're going to round up everyone then. See you down here soon right?" Fred said beaming.
"Yeah," Harry said smiling meekly.
"Knew you had it in you brother," George said and patted Harry on the shoulder again and went off to round all the Gryffindors they could up in the common room.
Harry's hands were shaking as he held onto the roll of parchment in his palms. He was surprised the ink wasn't smearing from his sweat. It seemed like a ludicrous thing to do, recite a poem in front of everyone after only five months of 'dating' but the twins were counting on him and like they said, they thought the two worked well with another. He checked himself in the free-standing mirror in the dorm to make sure he didn't look too stupid then took a deep breath as if heading for his doom and stepped out.
Harry put on a brave front and walked down the spiral staircase of the boys' dormitory. It wasn't that bad, really… he was over-thinking things, that's all. He reached the end of the stairs far too soon and saw a lot of people looking his way.
"Harry, what's this all about? Fred just said you had something special to show me," Hermione said looking anxious as she stroked the head of Sabrina who was purring in her arms.
"Yeah um, this is my second Valentine's Day gift for you," Harry said nervously.
"Right, everyone! Settle down! Our Harry Potter here would like to show his special girl how much he loves her!" Fred called to the crowd.
A few people whopped, mostly the older students and Harry's fellow classmates.
"Um, where- where should I do it?" Harry asked George.
George looked around then pulled Harry over to the fireplace. "There, right by a roaring fire, even more romantic," the Weasley commented and he stood next to Hermione and his twin and everyone turned around to face Harry.
Okay Potter, get this stupid thing over with… Harry held the paper close to his chest and looked at Hermione. "Now I know this is going to sound very cheesy and stupid but I did it anyway. I was just going to hand it to you but these two idiots"- Harry jerked a thumb to Fred and George who were beaming and looking excited. "- sort of made me promise that I'd recite this to everyone in the common room. Laugh if you want, it doesn't matter."
Hermione already had tears in her eyes. Harry looked around once more then decided to begin.
"This is called: As. Right….oh god, here I go…
As I tell you something, it's only between us,
As I kiss your lips I feel goose bumps.
As I look into your eyes you're staring even more in mine.
As I hold your hand I'm off in a fantasy land," Harry said nervously.
So far no one was laughing so he continued.
"As we hug we embrace more than life itself,
As we laugh we're happier than the world itself.
As we sing, we sing forever more, forever more.
As we look into the stars you say my eyes are worth even more.
As you say 'I love you' you mean it from the heart,
As you stroke my cheek, you want me from the start.
As you walk with me, I feel so trust-worthy,
As you tickle me, my cheeks are rosy red," Harry paused but only to look down at his paper. He was feeling more and more confident as he said each word.
"As I say dark secrets- you keep it to your lips.
As you and I love- we love more than the other ones.
As we keep searching, we find more than you will ever know.
As you tell me your future I'm already beginning ours right now.
As I make you grin you make me smile,
As you hold you hold my hand, our fingers are locked in a forever hold.
And as I kiss your nose-you turn pink inside and out,
And as you stroke my hair, no feeling can compare.
And as we say good-bye, we're thinking of all this- and more, until the next time," Harry concluded, and then looked up from his paper.
The common room was silent. Several people were giving off looks of admiration but no one had tears in their eyes like Hermione.
"Oh Harry!" she screeched and threw her arms over his neck and squeezed. Harry's breath caught in his chest. "That was the best thing I have ever heard of in my life!"
Once she broke apart from him they turned around to the other Gryffindors. Slowly but surely they all broke into an applause.
"Way to go Harry!" Seamus said.
"That was beautiful!" Angelina cried.
Harry turned back to his girlfriend, both grinning ear-to-ear. Hermione was lost for words and hugged him again and did not let go for a long while. Harry was feeling very elated right now; now that he had done it he would gladly do it again. Sure she was his first girlfriend but he was enjoying his time with her so much that he hoped they would last, even though he wasn't the kind of person to think that far ahead. He shook his head and planted his lips on Hermione's.
I had to keep in the bit about Harry's poem, it was too much a part of the chapter. Hoped you didn't think it was too cheesy.
Magical love: Rose