Hermione checked the mirror one last time while a whirlwind of thoughts ran through her mind. She was a bit taken off guard by Harry's demeanor when she went to see him in the office. Of course the first thought that went through her mind was whether he was still as attracted to her as she thought. Maybe she shouldn't take his feelings for granted ... after all it was clear that there were many other women who would love to play the role of wife or girlfriend of the famous Harry Potter. She took extra time to look her best today and picked out a black dress that showed off her back completely and although it was a bit loose it did hug her body in the right places. Her hair and makeup were done to perfection with the single goal of stopping Harry at his tracks.

She had already sent a tux to their shared apartment so Harry knew exactly what to wear for the night. As she stood in the front of their shared apartment she wasn't sure if she should knock or just apparate inside. She decided to knock and Harry opened the door. To say that he was stunned by her appearance was an understatement. He had no idea how this woman was able to take his breath away time and time again.

"Wow Mione, you look beautiful!" exclaimed Harry.

"Thank you Harry. You look great yourself" replied a shy Hermione.

They left for the party together and made some small talk about work. When they got there Harry was surprised to see both of his parents. There was a onslaught of hugs and kisses. They were bombarded with questions about their lives as newlyweds and adjustments that each had to make. Conversations flowed naturally and the couple easily navigated their way and spoke to everyone at the party. They both just seemed so comfortable in their own skin and they were authentic people.

No one would have guessed that they were having issues with their marriage. They were finally able to break away for a bit so Hermione could show him around her childhood home or what most people would call a palace. As they were walking towards the kitchen through the atrium something strange happened. Suddenly neither of them could move and it felt like they were both confined in an invisible cylinder. Harry had no idea what was happening but one look at Hermione told him that she knew. She looked angry and murmured something under her breath.

"What is this Mione? Why can't we move?"

"You're not going to like this Harry but look up" replied Hermione.

Harry looked up to see an elaborate mistletoe. He still looked confused.

"My cousin installed this mistletoe about 5 years ago and the only way to be released from this bind is to kiss under the mistletoe. There's ancient runes built into it so it's virtually impossible to break this curse" explained Hermione who was now sporting a faint blush on her cheeks.

Harry knew he could easily break the spell specially because breaking spells helped him become a top auror but he decided to have a little fun instead. Mione looked so delectable to him and he figured this is the least she could do after he had put his schedule on hold so he could be here for her.

"Ok I guess we don't have any choice then" said Harry.

Hermione looked apprehensive but she took a step forward and placed her hand on his cheek. She slowly started to kiss Harry but at some point lost all of her reservations. She felt so alive the moment their lips touched and buried her hands into his hair. Harry was equally lost in the moment and his hands were roaming all over her body. At one point his hand was under her loosely fit dress and caressing her. He heard Mione moan and took that as a green light to keep going.

"AHEM! AHEM!"

Both Harry and Hermione broke apart and saw that a small crowd has now gathered to watch their display of affection. Hermione's father was the one who cleared his throat and wanted Harry to stop. James on the other hand had a broad grin on his face and Lily was beaming. Remus and Sirius must have just joined the party later and also shared their amusement. Sirius couldn't help but wink at Harry.

Harry immediately moved his hand so it was now at Mione's waist. Hermione looked like she was caught stealing and partially hid herself behind Harry. She was mortified and felt that she needed to explain what happened.

Thankfully Harry saved her from saying anything and explained "We were going to the kitchen and got caught under the mistletoe. Watch your step over there everyone... it's a powerful spell".

"You were top of your class in Ancient Runes and Spell- breaking at Auror Academy but ok I'll buy that explanation" said James who was looking to rub it in. His son did not find this information amusing or helpful but knew his father was giving him a hard time. He sported a smile that reflected his feeling and was grateful that the crowd started to disperse. He looked at his wife and said "I'm sorry Mione this is embarrassing. That was really intense back there. Are you ok?"

"Yeah I'm fine Harry. Let's just head over to the dining room. Dinner is being served so I'm just going to help my mom in the kitchen" rushed out Hermione.

Harry went over to join his family who were huddled together at a corner. His father,
Sirius and Remus were in a deep conversation and they each had a smirk on their face as soon as they saw Harry approaching.

"Well well well. Looks like things are just peachy with you Harry" said Sirius.

"Son you seem to have a way with the ladies. No doubt you get that from your father" replied James.

" Aww dad did you really have to go there?"

" No need to be shy son. It's a gift. When I met your mother.."

"Alright I've heard enough dad. I have to speak to you guys about some campaign stuff. I'll stop by at your place Sirius around 11 am tomorrow to strategize. You boys in?"

The others agreed. When it came to getting support, Harry knew he could count on his family and friends.

Soon he joined Hermione at the table where the feast was laid out. He sat next to her and felt the tension between them. BothMr and Mrs Granger raised their glasses to say a toast.

"Harry we're so happy to welcome you to our family. We've been very impressed by everything you've done for the Wizarding World but we're even more impressed with how you've taken care of our daughter and how happy you make her. We hope this spark between you two lasts a lifetime! Cheers to the happy couple!"

Harry got up and shook Mr Granger's hands and gave Mrs Granger a hug. Hermione was beaming because her parents happiness was equally important to her. She knew how hard they worked and how much they sacrificed for her so this moment was extra special.

After dinner they both said good bye to their families and left for Hermione's hotel together. They apparated right in front of her door. She took her sleek key card out of her purse but was all of a sudden so nervous that she couldn't get the door to open. Harry gently took the card from her hand and opened the door. Hermione looked at him longingly as he gently held the door open for her to walk in. He entered the room as well and as soon as the door closed behind them, he had Hermione up against the wall. Their faces were so close that Harry could see the specs in her eyes even if the room was dimly lit.

"Hi" whispered Harry.

"Hi" said Mione.

The next moment, Harry's lips were crushing Hermione's. The time for words had passed and now action was needed.

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