Enjoy Allons-y

The look of shock and awe on Lily's said it all. Hermione didn't have anyone else to turn to and her mind was cluttered with confusing feelings. Sitting in the far back corner of the library Lily had been patient listening to the short version of Hermione's confusing love life. Her green eyes shone with admiration. If Lily compared her situation to one of those outrageous romance novels, Hermione would rather walk away and fend for herself.

"So wait, you're telling me that you've been on one date, three boys have tried to snog you and two succeeded. All of this in the last in the past two weeks!"

"Lily, not so loud." The instinctively looked for the over bearing Madame Pince.

"I'm sorry, but this is better than any book I could ever read. Sirius and Remus both love you. OH MY GOD!" She seemed to be very excited, most likely caught up in the "Romance" of it all. It might have looked all gooey and sweet from the outside, but Hermione was stuck in the eye of the overly confusing storm.

"Slow down, love is a bit strong Lil."

"Tell me about both in vivid detail please. I mean it you need my help to make an informed decision" Lily was practically bouncing up and down on the spot from the excitement, of Hermione's messed up love life.

"Uh huh sure that's really why you want the details." Hermione said sarcastically. Lily was many things but a good liar was not one of them.

"Shush, lay it on me"

"So both were unexpected. Sirius's kiss was hungry and passionate. It was the first time we ever properly kissed and it was honestly better than I could have imagined." Hermione smiled to herself thinking of how her body melted into his and the growl from his lips as she pulled on his hair. It really was better then she could have imagined "But he doesn't want me Lily. Not the way the Remus did."

"Speaking of Remus. Tell me about the wolf" Lily was waiting with bated breath for every excruciating detail.

"It was so good. I forgot how attentive he could be. He made sure that I was enjoying myself, it didn't need to be feverish. If anything it was painstakingly slow, and I wasn't complaining." Hermione enjoyed thinking of his talented fingers running along the inside of her thigh. Though Lily looked as though she needed to fan herself down. She was enjoying this far too much.

"Whatever pheromone you are exuding you need to bottle and sell that. You'd be a millionaire." They laughed together. Lily had a way of making Hermione feel lighter. She needed that now, especially with Remus's words running wild on the inside of her mind.

"Did Remus and I give up too soon? But how do I be with him knowing that his mate is out there? And Sirius, we're just complicated. Sure we flirt and have fun, but the moment something seemed real he ran for the hills. How do I trust him not to do it again?" Hermione's mind was chaotic and frankly frustrated. How could both of them snog her senseless and just leave the way they did? Then of course what would James say if he found out both of his mates had snogged his sister. She couldn't help but overthink the entire situation.

"Hermione, stop thinking and start feeling. What feels right to you?" Lily looked at her as though she had the answers and Hermione was missing something.

"I don't know Lily."

"Yes you do. Just wait for your heart to catch up to your brain." Her warm smile and knowing look left Hermione feeling like then dunce in the corner. What did Lily know that she didn't?

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Hermione had moved around in auto pilot for the entire day. It was hard to concentrate with Remus's words rolling around in her mind. Lily had given her a good piece of advice however. She was overthinking it, and then she was over thinking her overthinking. It was a perpetual wheel of confusion. She knew that Remus would eventually find Tonks. They were mates and as much as they loved each other, her relationship would never come close to what they would have. But did that mean that here and now they couldn't have something amazing. Hermione eyed the young wolf across the potions classroom. His goofy smile and bright hearty laughter brought a smile to her face. As if he knew she was looking at him Remus glanced in her direction and her heart skipped a beat. The weight of his gaze made Hermione look away and smile while biting her bottom lip. Maybe Lily had been right. She'd focused on the wrong things. She'd let her mind dictate her heart for far too long. Hermione knew what she wanted, now she just had to think of something dramatic that would make her mother proud. What was life without a little flair?

"Armortentia, is probably one of the most dangerous potion a young witch or wizard could produce. Who can tell me why? Miss Evans" no surprises there, that Professor Slughorn would give one of his favourite pupils the opportunity to shine. Lily of course knew the answer reciting it nearly word for perfect word from her text book.

"Armortentia is a love potion that causes a powerful infatuation or obsession in the drinker"

"Ten points to Gryffindor" she smiled brightly. Hermione often wondered if she had been that peppy or dare she say even annoyingly excited when called upon in class. She could almost hear Harry and Ron's voice answering in a unanimous yes.

"What does it smell like? Mr Potter." From the highest to one of the lowest. James's affinity wasn't that of potions and sadly the Professor knew this. In fact the Marauders had a running tally of all the points James had lost in Potions in the past year. His most current count was at one hundred and fifteen. Hermione was so close to winning the grand prize, this of course had quickly spiralled into a betting game. The all the fifth Gryffindor's and a large majority of the Quidditch team had brought into the pool. There were some unrealistic bets naturally, however Hermione seemed to be the front runner. If he gained back between fifteen to twenty points she would walk away with the kitty of sixty five Galleons twelve Sickles and six Knuts.

"Impossible to say Sir, it smells different to each person"

"Another ten points to Gryffindor" the entire body of Gryffindor students groaned in unison. Hermione was going to enjoy taking their money.

"Now, each person will step up the cauldron and inspect. Also take note of the smells that come from it. Miss Carrow why don't you start. Form a line and enjoy the smell of your lovers"

"Come on Hermione, maybe this will help with the decision." Lily seemed overly excited about today potion, though she was a sucker for romantics. "I don't think I need to Lily besides I already know what mine smells like. Mowed grass, fresh parchment and leather." Part of Hermione was deeply curious about what each of her friend's potion would smell like to them. Though she didn't need to wonder too hard about James. She would take a guess her sweet brother would smell, books, something citrus most likely orange and without a doubt he would smell lilies. James was nothing if not predictable.

"Leather really? Who knew you were that kind of girl." Lily teased. That had taken her by surprise too when she first stepped up to the cauldron in her sixth year. It really wasn't something she'd thought about that much. Nor were there any men in her life that were the leather clad types.

"Oh yeah, go ahead and take a whiff Lily let me know what you smell." Hermione smirked as the look of confusion and denial crossed Lily's sweet naïve face. Instinctively she watched her gaze drift over to James. She could see the wheels turning in Lily's mind. Hermione suspected that she was trying to convince herself that she was by no means attracted to James and nor would she ever be. Hermione couldn't help herself as Lily took her seat. She was not going to let an opportunity to tease her friend pass her by, especially given she'd made a joke about her potions smell. "Well?"

"I don't want to talk about it." Her short curt tone said it all, but Hermione was not letting this go she really did want to know what Lily had smelt.

"You know mine it is only fair"

"Fine… there were sweet smells like Treacle tart, something earthy and a broomstick" Lily's face was as red as her hair. It really was a sight to behold. Hermione wondered how much longer she was going to deny that there was a very fine line between love and hate. Even thinking that Hermione knew that Lily didn't hate James she just didn't agree with his actions all the time. Particularly when it came to a certain Slytherin friend of hers.

"Hmm, interesting. You know James's favourite dessert is…"

"Do NOT finish that sentence." Hermione couldn't help but laugh. Would it really be that bad if she had feelings for James? Perhaps it was too soon for that, but she was going to enjoy watching Lily's love story unfold.

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As Sirius walked up to cauldron he already knew what he would smell. He didn't need this potion to confirm what he'd already known for a while now. Something floral like jasmine, leather bound books and vanilla. It was her. He smiled to himself, of course it had been her.

"So Pads, what does the girl of your dreams smell like?" James asked enthusiastically wiggling his eyebrows like a moron. As if Sirius would ever tell him that the potion smelt exactly like his sister. Sometimes Sirius could be thick but there was no way he was that dumb.

"You don't want to know." Sirius dismissed the question. It didn't take long for the conversation to divert to other topics. He was glad for it. The less he thought of her the better. Remus's scowl told Sirius all he needed to know, not only did he know what the smell would be but he could see through his words like glass. Hermione Potter was the only object of his affection that mattered, and she was far too good for his Black heart.

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Astronomy tower sun down- H

Those four words had made his heart stop. Had she made up her mind already? He would be lying if his nerves hadn't been shot all day. Over breakfast Hermione slipped Remus the note in a book of poetry that he hadn't even lent her. The small piece of parchment marked a page, with incredible words that set his soul on fire. It was a muggle poet some Keats fellow. You are always new. The last of your kisses was ever the sweetest; the last smile the brightest; the last movement the gracefullest. When you pass'd my window home yesterday, I was fill'd with as much admiration as if I had then seen you for the first time...Even if you did not love me I could not help an entire devotion to you. Would it be so wrong of him to hope she'd picked this passage specifically for him? He knew she'd hear him coming, those foxily senses did wonders. She stood close to the edge, basking in the dying days light. Hermione was an angel amongst common folks. Could she have an answer for him so soon?

"Nice of you to join me" she looked over her shoulder with a delectable smile on her lips. His mouth went dry. From that smile alone she could bring him undone. Hermione would be appalled or proud by the many salacious thought he was having about her and that smile. He didn't tell his limbs to move. Nevertheless there was a magnetic pull that she had on him. He needed to be close to her. "Remus…" his name on her lips made his nerves worse, he wasn't ready to hear her say good bye. He needed her to know so many things first.

"Hermione…wait before you say anything else. I need you to know how incredible you are. And how you really and you deserve better, better than me and my condition. You're smart, beautiful, passionate and downright incredible. And I want you, all of you. I understand that what I am saying now and the other night is a lot to take in and a lot of pressure, but I'm all in Hermione. In for a sickle in for a galleon, I want…" she put her finger to his lips to stop the anymore words coming from his lips. His heart stopped. Her soft features looked at him with admiration and something that excited him greatly. Hermione's eyes looked at him hungrily. The delectably delicious smile played over her lips.

"Will you shut up for a minute, so I can do this" her lips met his and the world melted away. It was slow and soft. Much like the kiss they'd shared just a few nights prior. She pressed her tongue to the seam of his lips and he gladly granted her access. She pulled him closer to her until there was no space left between them. He could feel her heart beating rapidly under his touch. As he ran his fingers down her spine Hermione shivered in his grasp. He could not have imagined a more perfect moment with a more perfect woman. Almost. Remus ignored Moony in the back of his mind, as he was more man then beast. Though Hermione seemed to have a way of making him dance the line between the two. Pulling away with heaving breathes, Remus enjoyed the flushed cheeks of this witch. He wanted badly to do it again, though he needed to be sure of her first.

"Hermione, don't play with a man's heart like this. That would be most cruel" Hermione on the tip of her toes took his bottom between her teeth, playfully biting it. The primitive growl that came from his chest was something he had never experienced before. He no longer wanted this witch, he needed her. And she knew it. Four simple words graced her lips before he claimed them for his own again.

"Less words more kissing"

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Hermione and Remus after a significant amount of snogging made their way back to Gryffindor tower, hand in hand and smiling like idiots. She really was happy in that moment. The way Remus was looking at her made the butterflies in her stomach rampage. In her own timeline, Hermione had had a crush on her Professor. It seemed wild that here and now at the same age they would be together. She was his and he was hers. That unfiltered look of longing and desire, nearly made her want to take him to the Room of Requirement. As they walked into the common room, they had not expected the reception they received. Hermione had hoped that they could have a few more moments of peace and possibly another snog before their friends found out. But that was not to be as Sirius, Lily and James occupied the chair around the fireplace. It took a moment for them to realise what was in front of them. When the sickle dropped however Lily practically squealed as she ran to them, engulfing the two of them into a rather tight hug. Hermione wondered if this was the outcome she'd alluded to in the library two days prior. That would be a topic for the inevitable midnight feast. Sirius's barking laugh cut through the room as James scowled. Not in a disapproving way, but just unhappy.

"HA! Told ya. Prongs pay up, oi Red where are you going? You owe me too you know" looking to Remus, there was a slight blush in his cheeks. There was something to be said about how adorable he was, when caught by surprise. Hermione tried her best not to laugh. She also thought that she would have to try to have him recreate that face in a more intimate moment.

"You were taking bets?" Hermione said disapprovingly. The least he could do would be to deny it. But that wasn't his style; Sirius was not that kind of guy.

"Yeah, and you just made me four galleons richer." His wink made Hermione's eyes roll. Of course he didn't need the four galleons. There was enough money in his vaults that four galleons was no more than a tiny pebble in the mountain of gold. He just wanted the boasting rights, more than the gold. However what Hermione couldn't understand was, why her straight laced Lily was buying into the debauchery of her boys.

"Lily you too?"

"You couldn't wait one more day could you?" Her hands were on her hips defensively with a mild annoyance mixed in. Hermione couldn't help but laugh at her friends. She sometimes felt like she'd found somewhere she truly belonged. In her original timeline, she'd never felt like she truly fit. The brightest witch of her age chastised and criticised for being different. A muggle born witch that could perform advanced spells well beyond her years. The prejudices were still here, but Hermione was not the same, nor would she ever be the same girl again. It felt easy being here with her boys and Lily. Hermione wasn't sure how long they'd sat on the couches, laughing and enjoying each other company. It wasn't until they'd started to yawn and fade that Remus smiled at her placing a small peck on her cheek. The sneaky look on his face made Hermione nervous.

"Oh by the way Sirius cheated he had insider information" Sirius's eyes went wide as both James and Lily began, demanding that their gold be returned to them. Hermione couldn't help but laugh, life right now was everything she could have hoped it would be.

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As promised Hermione had been teaching Lily how to become an animagus. The Room of Requirement had become their classroom. She'd found her anchor much like Hermione she'd looked to the sky particularly the moon. Her meditation and potion work was complete and now it was time for her to shift. Though her pupil seemed too caught up in the new (or new again) couple news. The quite focus was essential for her first attempt, though Lily seemed to be crawling out of her skin for the official details.

"So…You and Remus back together again?" Hermione sighed. Her deep entranced state snapped as Lily's voice cut through the silence.

"Yeah just happened." Not opening her eyes Hermione could feel the enthusiastic energy rolling of off of her friend. "But this is not a gossip session Lily, focus you're so close"

"Fine but I want the details after ok?" the red head groaned, whilst she wanted the details her desire to successfully shift came first. It was something that the two of them had bonded over.

"Deal, now you need complete focus. Clear your mind and change" Hermione opened her eyes just in time to see the once human female in front of her had shifted into a beautiful spotted doe. "HOLY SHIT! Lily you did it" her coat was a silky auburn brown in colour the white spots trailed along her back and all the way down to the tip of her tail. She was shaky on her four legs, it however didn't take long for her to find her balance. Bouncing and flouncing Hermione was certain that if a doe could smile, Lily would be doing so. As her movement slowed, and focused Lily shifted back into her human form.

"HERMIONE! I did it, did you see me? Of course you did that was dumb. What'd you think? Are you surprised, me a doe a deer a female deer. I have been sitting on the one for a while. That was awesome. Do you think we can go running soon?" It was incredible just how quickly the words flowed from her mouth.

"Breathe calm energy. I would love to run with you, but I would like to invite some others." Lily's smile faltered slightly. She knew exactly whom Hermione wanted to invite, yet she didn't fight her on it.

"Fine, but Hermione I draw the line at one of the stupid nickname?"

"Come on Lily it will be fun. You're not afraid to be one of us are you?" Hermione teased her friend. Though nothing was immediately coming to her mind, she was certain the boys would come up with something good.

"If it happens, I want final say. Knowing the boys they will think of something ridiculous and provocative like…"

"Vixen" the stunned and look of discomfort crossed Lily's face, before they broke into laughter. Hermione had come to terms with her nickname. She didn't see the need to fight with them it was just the way it was. Though she much preferred being called Vix. "Fine you get final say. I can't wait to see James's face." Hermione said ecstatically. It was going to be the grand reveal and no doubt it would leave all parties speechless. Though she could imagine that Lily would be mad at her in some way shape or form. However that moment was going to be priceless.

"Why James?" Lily looked and asked her inquisitively. Hermione couldn't wait to see the look on her face the first time she sees that James's sprit animal and animagus was the mirror of her own. With a sly knowing smile all Hermione said was.

"You'll see"

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The first of the O.W.L examinations were only a week away and Hermione couldn't care less. She'd already passed her examinations once and surely she could do it again. Both James and Sirius had tried to bribe and bargain with her for the answers, of course Hermione hadn't given in. The other reason Hermione wasn't too fussed about the exams was her now boyfriend was unable to get his fill of her. She had seen the inside of more abandoned classrooms, dimly lit corners and private nooks in the past two weeks then in her entire first time at Hogwarts. More than the physical, Hermione was enjoying the ease of being with Remus. He would wait for her at the bottom of the girl's dorm stairs every morning, his smile was especially beautiful, walking hand in hand to the Great Hall, His sweet sidelong glances and chased kisses in her hairline. Hermione loved him. Just all of him. Something new that she certainly had been enjoying was, thanks to that poetry book Remus would whisper something romantic in her ear. It was always with the intent to make her blush, and most of the time it would work. It really was fantastic to be her right now. Sitting with their group Hermione and Remus walked in on a discussion that had been waging for the last few weeks.

"I bet I can get nine mate." Sirius was unrelenting in his opinion of himself and his prowess to achieve a full nine outstanding results. Hermione didn't see how he was going to get nine. For goodness sake even she never got a perfect score thanks to her E in Defence. Sirius never really studied, he was too busy focusing on getting the next girl or the next prank and his notes were horrendous basically illegible. There was no way he was getting the nine he wanted so badly.

"Dream on." James said with an annoyed tone. Sirius had clearly been at this for a while this morning already.

"Maybe ask the seer? Hey Vix, come on put a man out of his misery. How many O's do I get?" Hermione had never thought to ask the older Sirius how he had done on his exams. If she had however, she certainly wouldn't be telling the young man in front of her now. He needed to work for the results he wanted.

"From what I have heard you can't even give a girl one." Hermione didn't miss a beat and she was rather pleased when both James and Remus couldn't contain their laughter. Sirius of course would not take the comment laying down.

"Do I need to demonstrate how wrong you are kitten?" his predictable yet unfailing wink followed his seductive words. She would normally have blushed, but at this point Hermione believed he was all talk and no action.

"I think I could get you at least six Hermione. What do you say?" Remus's blatant words, however did make her embarrassed somewhat considering the company they were in. James's face contorted in a disturbed manner. Hermione knew she should have stopped the conversation there, but there were two reasons why she wouldn't. Firstly James's face all horrified was truly hilarious and secondly she was not going to let Remus have the last word and upper hand. If he wanted to play this game she was more than happy to oblige.

"I'd prefer nine"

"Okay, I am wildly freaked out by this conversation, and it needs to stop right now. That's my sister. Neither of you are giving her an O" James shuddered at the thought of any kind of intimate or passionate moments between his best friend and adopted sister.

"Too late" Remus muttered as Hermione swatted him playfully as a wide and promising grin played across his lips. She would have to see if he would be able to live up to the six he'd boasted. The look on James's face was a symphony of rage and repulse, that Hermione laugh far too hard. It really was endearing how protective he was. Not that she needed his protection from a certain hungry wolf.

"Watch it" James tried his best to look and sound intimidating, but underneath it all her brother was nothing more than a fluffy pink pygmy puff.

"You're only mad cause Lily won't let you take her exam" Sirius teased.

"Even then he would only an Acceptable" Remus jested, as Sirius let out a barking laugh. Hermione of course joined in, she couldn't help but enjoy James's discomfort. It was less than thirty-seconds into their laughter a wily smile crossed Sirius's lips. Hermione knew this look well, he'd just come up with a comeback that he was proud of. And James was in for it.

"You're being too kind Moony, I was thinking a Troll." The laughter went from a chortle to uproarious hilarity. James was trying his best to smirk or seem impressed by the joke, but even he couldn't deny it.

"Ha-ha, stop it"

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Remus had been insatiable in the past few weeks. Whenever they had a free moment he wanted her. Not that she was complaining in the least, his nimble fingers always left her body on fire, his lips stole the air from her lungs and his body. All she could think was how incredibly fit he was. But something had been bothering Hermione, while she loved feeling desirable to her boyfriend things had become heated very quickly. A little too quickly, while they hadn't been together…together again yet. And she wanted to keep it that way until they had a very candid conversation. But if he kept this up her resolve would surely snap. They needed to have this very serious, non-flirty conversation, but bless him Remus was making it exceedingly difficult for her to concentrate. He brushed her hair up off of her shoulders, and begun nipping and kissing Hermione from her hairline, down her neck and along her collar bone to the tip of her shoulder. Leaving goose bumps and a pleasurable shiver running up her spine in his wake. All she could think about was how she wanted so much more.

"Remus…wait. Please, I can't think when you do that." Hermione whimpered. He really wasn't going to make this easy for her.

"And that's bad because?" Remus whispered in her ear before he nibbled on the lobe. The warm pool that was forming in her stomach was not going to be ignored by the wolf. The slight inhale and low gravelly rumble, told Hermione everything she needed to know.

"I'm serious" She tried to sound strong, but her resolve was snapping as his feather light touch ran along her ribs. He was so not playing fair, every nerve in Hermione's body was on fire.

"No you're not because if you were we wouldn't be doing this right now." Remus was placing short chased kissed all along her jaw. Was he so determined to drive her completely mad right now? She just needed to focus. Breathe, she could totally ignore her gorgeously sexy boyfriend whom was clearly giving it his best to bed her right now. Piece of cake….right.

"Remus please." Her breathlessness was not helping, but she needed his attention to not be on anything but her word right now.

"Okay but first, A thousand kisses buys my heart from me; and pay them at thy leisure, one by one." His green eyes were alight with a want or need for her, not to mention she could see how incredibly hard things had become for him.

"Have you quite finished?"

"Not until I hear you gasping my name again love" She still wasn't used to the way he wanted her. Before Remus she'd only ever been with one person, and well he wasn't exactly this forward with is desires.

"And really you resort to Shakespeare? Who knew you had such an affirmation for muggle poetry. Really though, you know that I care about you and that we're excited about this…but don't you feel like we are moving a little too quickly." Hermione couldn't look in his eyes, she felt embarrassed for being so forward. She wanted him, he wanted her. It should be a simple equation. Taking her chin in his hand, Remus made Hermione look him in the eyes. Instead of judgement or disappointment, Hermione only found understanding.

"I'm just so excited to be with you again, I feel like I wasted so much time. Hermione I don't want to screw this up for us. If we need to slow it down then we can certainly do that. You just drive me crazy. The way you react under my touch, the whimpers and groans. Even Moony enjoys them, and it's hard to get my fill. But I…I love you Hermione and I would do anything for you." His eyes went wide and the words were said. He'd just told her three very big and very important words.

"Did you just say you loved me?" Hermione couldn't help but smile. Remus's big goofy smile matched hers.

"Yeah, got a problem with that?" he teased.

"No…but I would like to hear you say it again." She said biting the inside of her bottom lip. Leaning into her again, his lips just inches from hers Remus said the beautiful words one more time.

"I love you Hermione"

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That night at dinner Hermione was positively bubbling with energy. The boys didn't know why, but soon enough they would. Hermione and Lily had orchestrated the entire thing. Hermione would get the boys interests peaked in a way that they would have to come. The girls had spent a significant amount of time, finding a clearing not too far into the forbidden forest. Where they could give the three naïve yet lovable boys a pleasant yet satisfying surprise. Hermione of course knew that there was going to be more than one surprise this evening, and she was thrilled. Sure enough as promised Hermione had led the boys into the clearing that Lily had lit up rather nicely. Sirius though couldn't help but complain. Out of all the boys he was the one whom hated the unknown the most, even if it was going to be an interesting experience.

"C'mon Vix this better be good." He grumbled as James elbowed him. James ever the dreamer had matched Hermione's excitement. If he thought for one moment that there was a gift for him involved in any way he would be ecstatic. Remus however, he was the brains of the group. He analysed Hermione's every movement and every word looking for any hints. With a wolf like grin Hermione held her head high. They had no idea what was truly in store for them. And she was loving every second of it.

"Gentlemen I would like to propose the induction of a new member of the Marauders if we'll have her" The snapping of a twig and the three dropped jaws told Hermione, Lily had gotten the entry she'd always wanted.

"Lily?" Remus and James said in perfect unison. It really was adorable how cute their stunned faces were. All bug eyed and slack jaws. Sirius on the other hand crossed his arms across his chest and let out a roaring laugh. Hermione knew she was just as shocked as the others, he was just better at hiding it.

"Do you have what it takes to be one of us Evans? We are very selective you know." His playful grin, made Lily roll her eyes. Hermione looked over to her and winked. This made Lily smile in a way that exuded confidence. Holding her head a little higher Lily took Sirius's cocky words and put her money were her mouth was.

"Shut up and watch me Black" just as she had in the Room of Requirement, Lily shifted. Where a beautiful young woman had been standing just seconds ago, was now in all her glory a striking auburn brown spotted deer.

"Oh fuck. Prongs she's…she's a" Sirius now joined the others in their shock and surprise. How sweet this moment was. It was everything that Hermione had hoped for and more.

"A doe" Hermione said through a smirk, as Lily pranced in front of the three astonished wizards. This was the moment Hermione had been waiting for since she agreed to train Lily. James's hazel eyes were fixed in place. It was if he'd lost any ability to speak.

"You knew. Of course you knew" Sirius looked at Hermione with admiration. Even through the shock he could find a moment to acknowledge her brilliance.

"James, she's a…You're a…Oh sweet merlin" Remus couldn't form a tangible sentence. Normally that only happened when they were naked, but in this moment it was just as entertaining.

"You…You knew." Hermione said nothing as they all collectively lost their minds. As Lily shifted back she had a massive smile on her face. She seemed so very proud of her efforts to shock and awe the three boys in front of her. But Lily only had half the picture and shortly no doubt that would turn into shock and probably a small to medium amount of anger.

"So what do you boys think? Do I get to join the club? Also what are your forms? I know Hermione is a fox. But I would still like to know she refused to tell me."

"You are a cruel witch." Remus whispered in her ear as his arms snaked around her waist, pulling her against him. Hermione turned her head and kissed him on the cheek.

"Lucky you love me then isn't it" Hermione broke from his loving grasp and walked closer to Lily whom was enthusiastically waiting for an answer to any of her questions. "Boys I believe it is only fair." Sirius smiled as he shifted and Lily gasped. It was always interesting to see the black bear like dog that was affectionately nicknamed Padfoot. James understandably wasn't as keen to shift. Hermione could see the hesitation, but he also knew that it was going to have to be done. Shooting his sister a rather nasty look James took a deep steadying breath as he shifted. Where James had been was now a majestic burly looking stag with a blackish brown looking coat. Prongs didn't look directly at the green eyes witch. Much like the boys Lily's jaw hung slack. Hermione was the real winner tonight her mother would have been incredibly proud.

"James is a…He's a…a…" Lily seemed to be having trouble finishing her sentence. Being the generous witch she was Hermione thought it was only right to help her friend.

"Stag"

"And I'm a…You knew! You dirty rotten sneak." Lily was a mix of angry and embarrassed that caused her voice to be higher than Hermione had ever heard it. She was honestly surprised the Padfoot hadn't started howling because of it.

"What a pair you'll make." Hermione teased as Lily began swotting her friend. It had all been worth it. Every bloody second for the priceless reactions that had occurred. Hermione only wished she'd had a camera so she could show Dorea the shocked look on everyone's faces.

"Stop that. We are going to have choice words Hermione" it wasn't a threat but a promise.

"Come on Lily just get ready were about to go on an adventure. Though Moony my love, we will have to wait for your involvement" He planted a kiss in her hairline. Remus was proud of his witch, she'd pulled off the surprise of the century. This would live in infamy as one of the best within their group. No doubt it would be reminisced and spun into a more flattering tale by the boys. But Hermione would know the truth.

"Be safe, make it a short one." Remus ordered much to a certain dog's dismay. A sharp disapproving glance, quietened any further ojections "Don't whine at me Sirius, short until the moon. Um…Lily if you think you would up to…you're than welcome to join us. Though I understand if your answer is…" Remus didn't even have time to finish his sentence a Lily gleefully accepted his invitation. Hermione thought to herself as she kissed Remus goodbye just how wonderful her life was at that moment.

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Hermione would have been proud or perplexed that both Sirius and James were in the library. Though Sirius was still on a suspension after the book biting incident of 1974. He'd wished Hermione had been here for that prank, she would have been mad at first but eventually would have praised his work. They'd come to get some last minute study in for the Defence exam tomorrow morning. Sirius had so far done alright on his exams, the ninth Outstanding was within his grasp he could just feel it. He had been trying to keep to himself, but there were voices that were cutting through his concentration. It wasn't until he heard one name that Sirius started paying attention to the group of snakes just a few tables behind him.

"Come on Severus, you surely must have had her by now. Why else would you be so fond of her." Rookwood's hissing laugh mad a shiver run up Sirius's spine. Which "her" was he talking about and why was that slimy prick defending her. He was surrounded by the usual scummy suspects Crabbe, Goyle and Rookwood "How does that mud blood feel from the inside? Is she red all over?" Lily. He was talking about Lily and he wasn't defending her? "Aww what's the matter, don't feel like sharing? Maybe we will have a go and find out for ourselves?" Sirius snapped his quill in half. It took everything that was inside of him not to leap over and beat the shit out of them for what they were saying about Lily. He was her friend and he just let them speak so heinously.

"Pads what are you doin'…" Sirius put a finger to his lips and nodded over to the group of snakes behind them. James stopped midsentence, as he took his seat beside him. The look of concern on his face was endearing. He could only imagine how quickly that would give way to rage, when he heard their vile words.

"Whatta say boys find the ginger bitch and take her for a ride. Still nothing, what'll it take Severus." James's face dropped into a hot rage, much like that of Sirius's. Only he began to shake. That was the love of James's life he was not going to take this lightly "Maybe that other one, you know Potter's sister, Travers has asked to give her a go first. But when he's done, well we could definitely have some fun. Hmm both at once maybe, you wanna watch half-blood" Sirius had to hold James in his spot. Not that beating the fuck out of them wouldn't be enjoyable, because it would be. Wordlessly Snape left the cackling group behind. He said nothing, the fucking coward said nothing. Lily had been his only friend for years, she defended him at every turn. Hermione had saved his miserable life. This would not stand. He needed to be taught a lesson.

"Prongs, did you hear what they were saying about Lily and Hermione, that greasy git didn't even defend them." Sirius had other plans for them, every last one. But he would start with the most prominent offender Snivellus was going to pay.

"He needs to be taught a lesson about sticking up for ones friends." James's face still hadn't recovered. Snape and the others had slandered two of the three most important women in his life. It was in moment likes this that Sirius could see his mother's Slytherin influence in his life.

"Hermione won't like it." Sirius warned. Not that it would change his opinion that retribution was owed. He would not sit silent again, the next time he had the opportunity Snape would regret his actions or lack thereof.

"When she finds out why we did it she will" James couldn't meet eyes. That was probably what worried him the most. James felt things deeper than the others. Not that he would ever say it, but he really was the sensitive man of the group. It was one of the qualities that was most endearing about him.

"Let's get Moony, he's the brains after all. Knowing him he'll make it particularly eventful given his witch is involved" leaving any desires to study with the book on the table, Sirius and James needed to find Remus. Fuck getting nine O's now, there was only one thing on his mind. Sirius was out for justice. No one fucked with his chosen family.

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They were over and thank god for that. Hermione had finished all her exams in record time. It really was appalling how most of the questions on the exam hadn't changed in nearly twenty years. For now however Hermione and Lily were basking in the delightful summer sun and breeze under their tree.

"I think that was actually quite enjoyable" Lily said triumphantly. It was endlessly entertaining to Hermione, that this same red head was having a panic attack less then twenty-four hours prior. Rolling her eyes Hermione smirked, Lily really was cute when she was trying to play it cool. "I think I'll even get an Outstanding"

"You sound so sure Lil" Hermione teased as she laid back on her elbows enjoying the heat and slight breeze. There were no more classes for the day, so they had nothing but time on their hands.

"Well not all of us have an advantage." Lily said sticking her tongue out for added emphasis. Hermione couldn't help but laugh. Lily really was something else, one moment she could be serious discussing the exact breakdown of any given potion they'd studied, then the next moment she was sticking her tongue out like a four year old.

"I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Uh huh sure you don't" it was easy being with Lily. Hermione was thankful on a near daily basis that she was friends with Miss Evans. She was fiery and compassionate, but more than that she had an amazing head on her shoulder and a giving heart. Hermione knew it was not easy being her friend, she came with additional worries but Lily looked past that. It was a trait that had been passed onto Harry. "Where's Severus? He was supposed to be here already" Lily seemed concerned. Whatever light-hearted moment they'd been enjoying was quickly gone as they heard a roaring crowd began chanting.

"FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT!" A shiver ran down Hermione's spine. This was trouble, little did she actually know just how much. Getting to their feet they wasted no time in making their way towards the unnerving chants. Hermione didn't know who was fighting but she had what felt like a boulder was sitting in the bottom of her stomach.

"What the hell?" the words slipped from Lily's lips as all colour drained from her face. In front of them wands drawn were James, Sirius and Severus. It was two on one. This was not good, not good at all. This needed to be stopped, it wasn't fair. Severus was outnumbered and unarmed. James dangled Snape's wand in his finger. Surely they were not that cruel. Please no. Hermione tried to force her way through the crowd screaming to the two morons begging them to stop whatever cruel joke they were planning.

"Sirius! James! Stop it, stop it now!" They didn't look at her. Only Sirius acknowledged her plea. But it wasn't the Sirius she knew. This was not the boy she'd come to know, this was someone else entirely.

"Sorry Kitten we can't do that. Now Severus, why don't you tell these two lovely ladies what you allowed other to say about them? Hmmm nothing to say. What a shocker." With a flick of his wand Severus was on his knees. Hermione had lost sight of Lily, she didn't dare look for her now. The only thing that mattered was stopping this disgusting display.

"Maybe we need to wash his mouth out mate" James said coldly "Scourgify" pink soapy bubbles came from Snape's mouth. He was gagging unable to get a full breath it looked and sounded like he was choking.

"Stop it" Lily screamed, she was trying to get through too. But so many people were pushing them back. Lily pulled out her wand. She wouldn't be able to get a direct line to the boys. Hermione was nearly through the crowd. She was so close as a vice like grasp took hold of her waist.

"I'm sorry love but you can't intervene in this" Remus whispered in her ear as she fought against him. Surely he wasn't a part of this. He wouldn't. Would he?

"Let me go."

"Sorry love I can't." his grip on her was so strong. But she knew ways to get men to let go. With all of her might Hermione jammed her heel onto his foot, before with an impressive amount of force slamming her elbow back making contact with his jaw. "Ow fuck" his surprise was enough for her to wriggle from his hold. She didn't have much time. Shoving her way through the final row of people, Hermione needed to stop this madness.

"Expelliarmus" Sirius's wand flew from his hand in into her waiting grasp. The look of pure anger across his face was little more than a flicker, compared to the fire that thundered through her veins. Stepping between the boys and Severus, it was the first time she'd been able to look them in the eyes. James and Sirius looked back at her, and it was if she didn't recognise them. Her boy's faces were contorted with a deep seething hatred.

"Hermione, give me back my wand right now." His acidic tone did little to help the situation. Had this been the Sirius from her time she might have been afraid of the way he was speaking to her. But it wasn't and she wasn't the same girl either.

"No I will not." Hermione stood tall as his storming grey eyes bored into her soul. "Uh, uh James put it away right now, I can kick your arse in a heartbeat and you know it." The crowd "oohed" and snickered at her words, as Lily finally broke through, running to Severus's side.

"Severus are you ok?" Lily sounded genuinely fearful. She would be looking for any physical wounds first. Hermione wanted to look over her shoulder to make sure everything was ok. But she didn't dare take her eyes off of James or Sirius. She knew better then to look away from her opponents.

"I don't need a mud blood to defend me" Severus bit back with a sharp and idiotic tongue. It was a moment that he would never be able to take back. Hermione lowered her wand and turned to Lily. Her green eyes filled with pain as she recoiled as if she'd been physically wounded.

"What did you just say to her?"

"Sev…" Hermione tried to get him to listen, to look at her and hear the words he needed. But they were lost on her lips, as James reacted poorly to the disgusting words.

"Apologise to her right now you greasy git." James snarled. Hermione thought it was hypocritical of him to be so outraged. He was the one whom caused this, along with Sirius and even Remus. She didn't blame Severus in the least, the fault and guilt should be theirs.

"James just stop. I don't want his apology. I don't…" Lily was on the brink of tears as she clutched her ribs. This was something she'd never expected from Severus. He had been her first tangible link to magic. Not being the "freak" that Petunia had convinced her she was. Hermione could see her heart breaking in her chest as she ran from them.

"LILY!" the pain that radiated in Snape's words was something she'd never heard before from him. The cold and often distant boy really had a heart and it too was breaking.

"Severus you need to leave now. Give back his wand James. NOW!" James through the dark wood wand at Snape's feet, forcing him to bends down and pick it up. It was another way to embarrass the young Slytherin and Hermione hated it. Severus's face contorted with a mixture of regret and rage. He didn't want to follow her request, but even Snape knew she was trying to help him. As he turned to leave the crowd parted and booed. They had come for a show and Hermione had ruined it for them. "As for the rest of you, anyone standing here in the next sixty seconds will be on the receiving end of a hex. Now piss off." The sighs and rumblings of a missed fight spread through the gathered crowd. Hermione didn't move or speak until the four of them were alone. She didn't know what she was going to say to them, all she could focus on was the pain that radiated in her chest.

"Vix…we" Remus stepped forward trepidatiously, the blood dripped from the side of his mouth from where her elbow had met his face. Her maddened glare made any further words lost on his lips.

"NO! You do not get to justify your actions. How could you do this? You are all supposed to be good men. If you want to know what a man's like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals." With each of their heads hanging low Hermione sincerely hoped that they understood the weight of their actions. "I don't see any good men in front of me right now, I see petty juvenile boys and I'm deeply ashamed of each of you."

"Hermione, if you'd heard what he'd let them say…" James tried in a futile effort to make her understand. But it would all be in vain. Hermione couldn't and wouldn't listen to any form of excuse or apology from them. Not today, not until they sat with the pain and regret. Only when they realise what they'd truly done would she listen to them.

"I don't fucking care about what they say or do. I care about your actions and your words. You need to make this right until then I don't know if I want anything to do with any of you." They stood in silence for a moment, she needed them to see her distrust and anger. They needed to live with that being the last image of her for at least a while. Sirius's voice cut through the quite moment. He didn't meet her eyes, perhaps he was understanding quicker then she'd hoped. It was hard to look directly at someone when you are disgraced by your actions.

"Who said that to you? The inferior's thing" Hermione threw his wand at his feet. He should be grateful that she didn't snap the bloody thing in half.

"You did." She couldn't look at them anymore. She didn't listen as they called to her, nor did she care for their words. She would be lying if she if she was only angry with her boys. It wasn't just them Hermione felt like she had failed.

Well that's it for another chapter. I hope you enjoyed it. I loved writing the Animagus scene that was a lot of fun. Anyways, that's it for another month. See y'all next time BYYYEE.