My only warning? Things get s bit physical towards the end here. Oh, and some of our friends will start the chapter off with a very very naughty mouth. That is all! Happy reading :)

"So, you didn't fuck him the second night?" Lavender asked in a tone of shock.

"Lav! Don't be crude."

"Honestly, Hermione...you mean to tell me you can fuck someone four hours after meeting him, but I can't say fuck? Please, get a grip girl."

I laughed into the phone. "Alright, I guess you have a point. But no, I did not...have sex with him the second night. Haven't since that first night actually."

"Oh, that's a shame."

"No it is not! As much as I'd love to - and definitely plan to - I like how the rest of the week has been. I like the connection we're building up outside the bedroom. We already know how good we are together in bed - totally by accident - I just needed a few days to be sure we're good together out of it too. But believe me, I have been tempted."

"Okay...so what else have you two been up to the last couple of days then?"

I settled deeper into my hotel bed and switched the phone receiver to my opposite ear. When I didn't hear my cell phone ring moments before, Lavender - ever the thorough one - called my room to check in on me being that she hadn't heard from me 'all week long' which apparently was a travesty - even though it was only Thursday.

"Well, it wasn't long after he left me Monday night that he called my room. We stayed up pretty late just talking about so much...it was nice. People don't do that anymore, do they? Just spend hours on the phone."

Lavender sighed. "That does sound so sweet." We were silent for a moment. "Then you invited him to your room right?"

"No!" I laughed. "No, then we went to sleep...in our separate rooms."

"Bummer. Okay, so did you see him Tuesday?"

"He came back to the hotel Tuesday after work and found me in the hotel's back garden, so we stayed out there and had dinner since it was still fairly warm."

"And?" Lavender pried.

"Lav," I sighed, "I said we haven't slept together since the first night, haven't I?"

"Well...yes but you could have done other stuff."

I shook my head and rolled my eyes. I knew she couldn't see me but she knew me well enough to figure that's what I was doing. "Kissing, but that's all. I really want to give this a real chance! I like him a lot, Lav, and I think he does too. Honestly, I haven't felt like this in a long time."

"He's that amazing, huh Hermione?"

"Yes," I said with a smile on my face. "I mean, he's damn near perfect Lavender. He's clever and makes me laugh and he's ambitious...he's so attentive - I swear he seems to know what I need before I even think about it. He actually listens - you know how much we talk about how men just don't listen half the time? Well he does. Even when I don't think he's listening, he is - and he remembers."

I closed my eyes and pictured Ron's face and lips and body and... "And he's so attractive, Lav. But what makes him even more attractive is he doesn't seem to realize it. He's not cocky at all. But I see him and I just...melt. I'm not sure I'll last much longer."

"Nothing wrong with that!" Lav exclaimed. "But seriously, Hermione, he sounds wonderful." She paused while I kept smiling like a fool. "Okay...so that's what...Tuesday? What's happened since then?"

"Well, yesterday he surprised me with an off-Broadway play - Jersey Boys. He said since I grew up in Jersey we should see it. It was actually pretty good!"

"So that's been a date every night this week then so far! What about tonight? Why are you in your room talking to me?"

I pouted slightly. "He had to go out of town for the day." When he told me last night while we grabbed a pizza after the show that he had to spend the day in Delaware, I tried not to act like a selfish brat - but it was hard not to! I was excited for him at the same time though - TB Suites was finalizing a couple sites down that way. "He'll get in super late tonight but promised to call as soon as he's back in his room."

"Aw, so you were on your own today?"

"Yes, but I got a lot of work done - pretty much everything I needed to for the week. So I'm completely free tomorrow and the weekend."

"Keeping your time open?" she asked in a sly voice.

"I mean...of course. I have two and a half more days with him, then I grab Rose and we head home. I'm not sure what's going to happen then."

"Have you talked about it?"

"No." Truth was, I wanted to bring it up...but I felt like that meant dabbling into the 'what are we?' conversation. I felt like a schoolgirl. Bats eyelashes and asks sweetly, "am I your girlfriend?" I sighed. "We have the weekend...I'll find a way to bring it up. Feel him out and see what he's thinking."

"Yes Hermione...you feel him out. You feel him out good."

"Lavender I'm going to hang up on you!" I practically yelled as she cackled into the phone. Just then my cell phone chimed. "Oh, Rosie's texting me."

"I'm going to go anyway - you tend to your girl. I'll text you tomorrow for updates!"

I laughed, "Alright Lav. Night."

"Night!"

I hung up and sat back on the bed, cell phone in hand.

Hey mom! So, Sam and Max are coming to spend the day Sunday. Grammy's going to make Moussaka and Daddy says he can take us to the skate park...so can you wait until like after dinner to pick me up?

I smiled. Being an only child with a mom who's an only child, Rose doesn't have cousins on my side, so she's always excited to spend time with her cousins on her father's side. And I would never interfere with that.

Of course my love, I'll pick you up around 7, okay?

Perfect! Thanks mom! Love you and miss you!

I lay back in the soft bed and sighed. It really had been an amazing week, and if I was being truly honest with myself, while I was happy to get Rose and go home in a couple of days...I was not looking forward to leaving Ron.

Couldn't I just bring him home too?

I knew the answer to that. It was too soon, he obviously had his job to do, plus there was Rose. And we haven't even known each other a week! There were so many reasons why that thought was so illogical.

And yet...he made me feel so damn illogical. Every time I was with Ron or thought about Ron I had the most illogical thoughts and feelings. It was as if we had been together forever rather than just known each other for a few days.

DAYS!

How many times have I heard that saying, "when you know, you KNOW"? Well...I was starting to get the feeling that I just know. This thing with Ron, while it started at top speed, I really and truly felt like it could be so much more.

The crazy thing was, he was pretty much making it very clear he felt the same way! He told me more than daily how beautiful he thought I was, and had absolutely no qualms about holding my hand or wrapping an arm around my waist when we were in other's eyes. Last night while we stood in line at a little pizzeria, he even pulled me in and kissed the top of my head.

I thought I was going to die!

In a nutshell, my original concerns about this being a one-night thing were stomped down pretty early on, and I was thankful.

I snuggled into my pillows completely and smiled, thoughts of Ron dancing through my head until I dozed off.

It couldn't have been much later when my room phone woke me up. I glanced at the clock to see it was a bit after one in the morning. Knowing exactly who it was, I grabbed the receiver on the second ring.

"Hello?" I winced at my crackling voice.

"Oh, sweetheart I'm sorry...I woke you." Ron's voice was deep as if from sleep himself. I smiled and closed my eyes allowing the sound of his sensuous voice to wash over me.

"No, s'okay. I only just dozed a bit ago." With my eyes closed and my head back on my pillow, I realized you could definitely hear the sleep in my voice.

"I was going to call from the road when I saw how late it was getting, but I fell asleep myself. We hit traffic coming up the...what's it, the turnpike?"

"Mhm, the Jersey Turnpike is likely what you took. And yes, traffic on the turnpike can be the worst."

"You would know, yeah?"

I laughed. "It's why I used to avoid it like the plague."

"I don't blame you," he murmured with a yawn.

"You're clearly exhausted, Ron. We'll talk tomorrow?"

"Actually," he suddenly sounded more alert, "there's something important I need to ask you." My heart skipped several beats. "I know it's last minute, because I really had not planned on attending, but there's a benefit ball tomorrow night and now because of these negotiations in Delaware, I actually must attend...should really. Don't know why it wasn't further up on my priority list..." He trailed off realizing he was rambling a bit now.

"Oh..." I took that to mean I likely wouldn't see much of him tomorrow. I couldn't even try to deny the sad feeling washing over me. I really wanted to see him...

"And...well...my invite is for me and a guest."

"Oh?" I sat up, suddenly intrigued.

"Yeah...I mean it'll be a bit boring...I'll have to rub elbows with a few people, do some of the schmoozing or what have you...but there'll be food and drinks and I assume dancing - it being a ball and all...black tie and real elegant to-do...and well..."

"Ron?" He hummed. "If you're asking me, then just ask me."

He chuckled. "Yeah...suppose you're right." He cleared his throat and I could picture him putting on his straightest face in a dramatic show of gallantry. "Ms. Hermione Granger, would you do me the honor of accompanying me to a ball tomorrow night?" I could almost hear him hold his breath.

"Of course, Ron." I grinned as he sighed in relief.

The next morning my phone woke me up again. Thinking it was Ron I answered quickly, but was surprised to hear the receptionist from the front desk.

"Morning, Ms. Granger, Mr. Weasley has requested a courtesy call to your room to let you know that a car will be here in one hour to take you to the Millcreek Spa."

"I...what?" I sputtered.

"The Millcreek Spa, Ms. Granger," she said a bit annoyed now, though still with the apparent air of boredom. "Your appointment is at eleven, so the car will be here at ten-thirty to take you. Then, according to your itinerary, it will take you to Macy's in Herald Square following your appointment, then to the TB Suites across from TB's headquarters."

"I...uh...okay. Thank you, then."

I hung up the phone and grabbed my cell.

What did you do?

Ron's response was a laughing emoji, so I tried again.

No, seriously...what is this all about?

You're scheduled for the full treatment Ms. Granger. Full massage, hair and nails...I asked you to this fancy pants ball last minute, it was the least I could do.

And Macy's?

I figure you didn't pack a gown for your week away to the city...or am I mistaken? Honestly I wouldn't put it past you to be prepared for anything now that I think on it.

Oh damn...he was right. And somehow I hadn't even thought about the fact that I don't have a dress or shoes for this thing tonight. I mean, I would have thought of it eventually and figured something out but...here he goes, knowing my needs before I even know them.

Wow...you're amazing, you know that?

Do I sense a slight tone of surprise?

You can't possibly sense a tone through text Ronald.

Sure, sure. Pack whatever you'll need for the night. We can change at the hotel here in the city so we don't have to head there to come right back here. And I'll see you later, alright love?

My heart soared at the use of such an endearment.

Alright.

I allowed myself a moment to lay back on the bed and beam at the ceiling, so many feelings rushing through me. I had no doubt that tonight would be anything but 'boring' as he had first described. Tonight was going to be...epic.

I stood in the mirror of my borrowed hotel room and stared at myself in awe. Was that really me? Wow.

If Ron thought I was beautiful in my plain every day attire with my mop of curly hair that had a mind of it's own, what would he think tonight?

The ladies at the spa really went all out for me. After an amazing massage, they treated me to a pedicure, manicure (I opted for simple designs all around) and even hair and makeup. My hair was now frizz-free and pulled back delicately into an elegant knot with strands of curls falling over one shoulder. My makeup was again simple and natural as I requested it, with neutral tones since I wasn't sure what color dress I would end up finding at Macy's.

I ended up going classic for my dress. It was a sleek, black long gown with the tiniest train that ran behind me when I walked and a higher than I was initially comfortable with slit that showed a good bit of thigh when held a certain way. It hugged my curves rather well, accentuating rather than highlighting, and on top the front plunged just enough - but not too much - to show a classy amount of cleavage while my back was pretty much open. I opted for a pair of strappy gold sandals since the jewelry I had with me was also gold. And imagine my surprise when I went to check out and was simply told that it would be charged to the card they had on file - to one Mr. Ronald B. Weasley. Damn him!

But, that aside...I looked pretty hot! And I very rarely say that about myself.

Now ready, and expecting Ron at any moment, I began to pack up my things into my bag. Ron had reserved one of the completed ground floor rooms for me at the new TB Suites across from his office, so I could get ready there rather than going all the way back to our hotel. He was simply getting ready in his office and would come across to pick me up in just a few.

It seemed that as soon as I was ready and glanced about the room to be sure I had everything, there was a knock on the door.

I paused and took a deep breath, smoothing out any non-existent wrinkles that may have formed as I moved around, then opened the door.

He looked ridiculously handsome. His black tux fit his tall, lean frame perfectly, as if it were molded to hug his body in just such a way. His hair was trimmed a bit so, although it still fell across his forehead adorably, it no longer fell into his eyes or passed his ears. And his bright blue eyes were wide and moving slowly up and down my body.

"Wow," he finally managed to breath out. "Wow." He cleared his throat and opened his mouth to say something presumably more articulate than a third 'wow', but ended up in a lopsided, dazed grin instead.

"You clean up pretty nice yourself," I crooned. I stepped up and adjusted his bow tie, which didn't actually need adjusting I'll admit...but it gave me a reason to step closer. I took in the clean yet earthy musk of his cologne and sighed. He took my hands in his and brought them to his lips to kiss them lightly.

"You look so beautiful," he said softly - apparently finally finding his voice. He dipped his head and I closed my eyes just as his lips touched mine. We'd kissed quite a few times over the course of the week but every single time our lips connected it sent shock waves throughout my entire body as if it were our first encounter.

I resisted the urge to deepen the kiss and pulled back gently instead. "Ready to go?" He inquired with a grin. I nodded, still a bit breathless from just that simple kiss.

I'm pretty sure we were both in some sort of a daze as he grabbed my bag for me and led me out to the town car which was waiting for us.

We didn't have to go very far to get to the Edison Ballroom where the event was to take place. It was a Benefit Ball for a Habitat for Humanities NYC, which Ron said TB Suites was looking to become a partner with.

The ballroom was dimly lit and there was a massive chandelier hanging beautifully over the dance floor in the center. Elegantly dressed tables were encircled around the dance floor and there were multiple bar stations throughout, but servers still wound their way through the crowds offering glassed of champagne.

"Let's get ourselves something to drink before we make our rounds?" He offered. "I wouldn't drag you along with me but," he glanced around wearily, "I'm afraid if I let you go some bloke will swoop in behind my back."

I giggled and shook my head. "I'll go wherever you want me to go Mr. Weasley."

The evening passed quite amicably. We mingled throughout the crowd and I was introduced to many who were in Ron's growing professional circle as he made a name for himself and his family's company here in the states. There were also many who he was in turn introduced to as he made new contacts. As I joined him, my arm wrapped tightly around his, I marveled at how at ease he seemed making light conversation with so many. Always an introvert myself, I also noticed how easy being beside him made it for me to engage with these people I did not know. Ordinarily I would shy away from events such as this, the very thought of having to engage with so many rendering me completely anxious and even mute. But beside Ron, I also felt so at ease. He would smile down at me and I felt an energy I rarely felt in social situations such as these.

It was actually pretty exciting. (But, an excitement that I knew would tire me out eventually and had me looking forward to a hopefully quiet weekend in to regroup.)

Dinner and presentations followed the cocktail hour, and then finally the floor was open for dancing. Now, I'm no dancer, but the moment he wrapped me in his strong arms to sway to the slow ballad that the band was playing, I knew that this was exactly how I wanted to spend the rest of the evening.

"So," he said low, his breath tickling my ear, "I believe I get one more day with you before you go home...s'that right Ms. Granger?"

I could hear the slight slur in his words and shivered as his fingers rest low on my bare back. He was bolder when he drank...but then...so was I.

"Actually, Rose asked me to come later in the evening on Sunday. So you almost get two days with me." I paused, then made the decision. "And don't forget the two nights."

I felt him smile against my cheek. "Stay with me," he whispered. I pulled back slightly to look up at him. "We'll stay in my room the whole weekend...order room service and take away..." He trailed off, and ran a finger lightly up my back to settle his fingers at the nape of my neck. I couldn't help but close my eyes at the feeling. "I just want to spend as much time with you as possible before you head home."

The question that had been playing in my mind most of the weekend finally spilled out of my mouth before I could resist.

"And...what will happen then? Once I return home?" I opened my eyes and gazed up at him. His one-sided grin never even faltered.

"Well, I reckon we fall into the whole long distance relationship thing with texts and phone calls and hopefully some video chats," he waggled his eyebrows and I giggled. "At least...until I get to see you again. S'what people do innit? When they're..."

"And...are we? In a -" I couldn't bring myself to say it. What if I was wrong? What if it's not what he really wanted? Maybe he just wanted something casual...a friend he could call on for a romp or a plus one.

"Well...I was hoping this was leading to that. Seemed inevitable. But," he leaned in as if he had a secret and dropped his voice, "I've been a bit scared to ask."

"Ask me what?" I whispered back.

"If you'd want to be with me. If we could see where this can go. I'm not keen on letting you go Hermione. Let's do this...what do you say?" He rubbed his long nose against my cheek and I sighed as a smile spread across my face.

"Yes."

"Yeah?" He leaned back as if in disbelief.

"Yes," I repeated. "I don't want to let you go either Ron."

The grin on his face reminded me of the Cheshire cat in one of my favorite movies - but only in how wide it was. Besides that it was genuine and even child-like...as if he just received the very Christmas present he wanted all year long.

"Wicked."

A few hours later we stumbled into his hotel room breathless and clawing at each other's clothes. My dress was gone fairly quickly - considering all Ron had to do was slide the straps down my arms so it could pool at my now bare feet.

My strappy heels never made it back on after the car ride. Truth be told, my dress was almost lost in the car as well. And in just the short car ride, Ron had managed to completely dismantle the hairstyle the lady at the spa took so long to put together.

I, meanwhile, had a bit more work cut out for me. He had removed his jacket in the car and I had already disposed of his bow tie, but that still left his shirt, undershirt, his dress pants and whatever was under them. That was a lot of work for me who was drunk and already almost naked, save for my quite uncomfortable thong.

But I set out to the task, until he held my hands to stop them and gently pushed me towards the bed.

"Lie down," he mumbled. I backed away slowly and turned to crawl up onto the massive bed. Behind me I heard him groan, and looked over my shoulder to see that his fingers had stilled on his buttons as he gazed at my ass. I smiled coyly and turned my body to lie back. He returned my smiled and set back to work, kicking of his shoes and removing his clothes in record time.

Before I knew it, my thong had joined the pile of clothing and he was moving inside me, his lips and hands running all over my body. I was almost surprised at how ready I was for him but then realized that the entire night was just one long bout of foreplay. The whole week actually.

I needed this so bad. I needed him. And now he really was all mine.

"Is it always going to be like this?" I asked a while later. We were lying on our sides facing one another now, our legs entangled, our skin flushed and slightly sweaty and our breathing still a bit erratic following what I must say was a very impressive explosion on both our parts.

"I hope so," he mumbled. "Wouldn't doubt it." He laughed and ran his finger along my jaw. "Has it never been this good for you?"

"Well..." I took a moment and thought. "I've only ever been with Rose's father. And no, it was no where near this amazing. What about you?"

"Are you trying to get a handle on how many women I've been with?" He laughed.

I smacked him playfully. "No! I just...I'm sure you've had more experience than me. You would know more...I assume so anyway."

"Well, Ms. Granger, one shouldn't assume." He reached down and grabbed my butt cheek in his large hand to give it a squeeze. I rolled my eyes.

"Yes, yes I know," I laughed at his unspoken joke.

He gazed at me for a second before answering. "So...no, I can't say I have much more experience than you, actually. I've dated a few women here and there, but never anything quite so physical with any of them. And I've had one long-term relationship - but it was never like this with her. This is...different. Special. You do things to me that no one had ever done...and I'm not just talking about the things you do to me in bed either." He nipped at my nose playfully. "From the moment I saw you sitting at the bar downstairs...I dunno, I was just drawn to you. Hermione, I'm so serious when I say I want to see how far this can go. Because I really think this can go quite far...and not just because of how utterly brilliant it is to shag you." His eye twinkled as he grinned mischievously.

"I feel the same," I whispered. With my hand now on the back of his neck, I pulled him towards me and moaned when his lips surrounded mine. "It is though, isn't it?" I murmured against his lips. He made a questioning grunt, his hands now running up and down my body. "Brilliant...when you shag me?"

He chuckled. "Bloody brilliant," he growled.

"Oh, I love it when you growl!" I squealed. He rolled us over so he was on top of me again, and released the sexiest most animalistic growl into my neck. I felt the immediate warm wetness pooling between my legs and opened up for him to take me again.