Disclaimer: This is a work of fan fiction using characters and settings from the Harry Potter world, which is trademarked by J. K. Rowling. I do not claim any ownership over them or the world of Harry Potter and will not receive any money or other financial profit for presenting the work on this site. The story I tell here as well as certain original characters are my own invention, and are not purported or believed to be part of J.K. Rowling's story canon.

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Chapter 29

"I can't help but admire your grit," Sage admitted, widely grinning as she spoke.

"I feel like I've heard you say this before," Neville said in response, a similar smile on his face.

They both had become a bit more daring over the past few weeks, now even meeting between lessons. Though Sage scolded herself for giving in so quickly during times like this, she couldn't deny how good it felt to spend some alone time with Neville. Sometimes, ever so often, things between them felt nearly like they had used to all these years ago.

"Guess I just never get tired of admiring you," she cheekily remarked.

"Oh, is that so?" he challenged her.

"Don't make me take it back, Longbottom!"

"Is that a threat?"

"Why don't you come find out?"

"Might as well."

Without any sort of hesitation, he got up, headed straight towards Sage, but ultimately ended up tripping over his own feet. She caught him right before he fell to the ground, falling on her back upon the sudden impact. Neville landed on top of her, his face only inches away from her own. Her heart sure skipped a beat or two at the sight.

Their eyes interlocked, none of them saying a word. Sage didn't dare to move, but simply.. stared. Eventually, they both burst into laughter, easing off the tension that had been building between them.

"Clumsy as ever," Sage noted, somewhat breathless.

"Not exactly worth your admiration, I assume," he said in response, his face reddening out of awkwardness.

"I wouldn't say that."

"You wouldn't?"

"I like your clumsiness. Makes it easier to believe that you are real."

His gaze shifted into something she could only describe as utter confusion. However, the smile spread across his face didn't exactly fade either. It was an odd sight, though adorable nevertheless.

"Real?" he repeated, sounding somewhat hopeful.

"Yeah.. A brave, courageous hero without any flaws? Now that's just unrealistic," she explained with a grin on her lips.

"I'm not a hero, Sage."

"To me you are."

She didn't lie, never would have. Neville was a hero, even though he wasn't able to see it just yet. She tried to force such thoughts away for now, indulging in this moment for as long as she could. Though she felt guilty for acting this silly during such dark times, it were moments like this that gave her the strength to continue.

"Nev?"

"Yeah?"

"Not that I don't enjoy it.. but you are still on top of me."

"Oh gosh, yeah, sorry!" he exclaimed, even redder than before, awkwardly getting on his feet again.

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Author's note: Felt like writing some fluff today!! The two are getting more and more comfortable with each other again.

Thank you for the reviews on my previous two chapters!! It's really helpful for my writing to know what you think. Makes it easier to decide in which direction I want to head with this story!!

Wishing you all the best and hope to read some more of your thoughts on today's chapter!! :-)