Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or any of his friends, Ms. Rowling
does.
Author's Note 1: This is my first fic. Please let me know of your opinion and I shall try and improve. I did borrow some original ideas from several great writers around this archive, only to improve upon them. I do not mean any disrespect to them. Thanks.
bNOTE:/b " " - normal talking. ' ' - thinking
Chapter 4: Back to Hogwarts
On September 1st Harry and Hermione along with her parents went to Kings cross station. Grangers hugged both the kids and wished them good luck for the 6th year. Harry and Hermione went onto the platform and onto the train quickly trying to find Ron. He is nowhere to be seen. After sometime when the train was moving Ron came into their compartment, grinning madly.
"Why are you grinning like a fool?" asked Harry
"Nothing" said Ron dreamily
"There is something and tell me what is it?" pressed Harry
Hermione is looking surprised at Ron. He is still dreaming.
"LAVENDERAGREEDTOGOWITME" blurted very quickly
"What?...Oh great Ron. Congratulations" Harry shook hands with Ron. But Hermione didn't understand a bit.
"What is it Ron? I didn't get it" she was curious to know what's going on.
"Oh no! No second chance." Smiled Ron and as she looked at Harry he smiled and shrugged with a helpless look on his face.
"Fine. If I am not so wanted, I better keep to myself." And she huffed past them outside despite the boys protest.
Ron and Harry ignored it and started playing exploding craps.
After what seemed like a few minutes, a shocked Hermione walked in with confusion written all over her face.
"What is Hermione? Something wrong?" asked a worried Harry.
"It's Malfoy! He..", she was cut off by Ron "Did he say anything to you" building up rage.
"No! I mean, I ran into him and he looked sorry and apologized me. He was also addressing me with my last name. After that he didn't look at me in the eye. I warned him but he didn't reply." A still puzzled Hermione replied.
"Maybe he is up to something?" suggested Ron
"I don't know Ron" shrugged Harry.
Finally they gave up and Hermione started to read Hogwarts: a History as usual, but Harry opened up a book of Ancient Runes and started reading it, much to the shock of Ron.
"Harry!...are you ok? I mean, what did Hermione do to you while you were there?" asked a bewildered Ron ignoring glares from Hermione.
"Nothing Ron. I just wanted to make full use of my last 2 years at Hogwarts. Be prepared for you-know-who, just incase."
But Ron is still shocked and thought he would go mental if he stayed there long. He excused himself to find Ginny and the twins and walked out. Hermione laughed and settled herself besides Harry, obviously impressed by both his attitude and proud for rubbing on him.
"Harry! What are your plans for this year?" asked Hermione playing with his fingers.
"Hmm...I am going to drop Divination and take up both Ancient Runes & Arithmancy"
"Wow Harry! That is great, I mean, I will help you Arithmancy as you are 2 years behind" Hermione hugged Harry and smiled.
After an hour or so, both felt really tired and leaned onto each other and dozed off.
Ron, Ginny and the twins came in only to be surprised at the scene. Hermione is leaning her head on Harry shoulder while Harry is resting on her head. She is also holding his hand, intertwining her fingers.
"Aww...isn't that cute!" sighed Ginny, waking up both Harry and Hermione. They quickly detached and composed themselves.
"Guys! How long were you here? And why didn't you wake me up?" questioned a puzzled Harry.
All of them smiled coyly at Harry and continued to pack their things and change into robes. Hermione and Ginny went into the toilet and changed into their robes.
After wishing Hagrid the trio along with Ginny got into a horseless carriage and headed to Hogwarts. Harry was very happy to see Hogwarts. It's like being home again. Ron spoke thoughtfully.
"Don't you find it a little odd? I mean Malfoy didn't even come and bother us?"
"Oh! Shut it Ron. Let's just enjoy our time this year", suggested Hermione.
All four got down and walked into great hall. Once seated, the first years walked in, ushered by McGonagall. The hat had a new song, which they all enjoyed and the sorting finished rather quickly.
Gryffindor got 7, Slytherin got 9, Hufflepuff got 8 while Ravenclaw got 7. Dumbledore hushed everyone by standing up for announcements.
"Welcome everyone for another wonderful year at Hogwarts. I am sure you will fill your empty brains and walk down the path of good. First and foremost, the forbidden forest is restricted to all the students. No student should walk at night after 10, without being accompanied by a prefect, Head boy or girl or a professor."
Dumbledore paused smiling.
"On a happier note, we are going continue having a dueling class along with DADA. And I am happy to welcome professor Remus Lupin to teach the class, while Arabella Figg will continue with the regular DADA."
Everyone clapped loud, with the Slytherin being the faintest and Gryffindor, the loudest. After the noise subsided Dumbledore continued.
"And for the most important event: mumble jumble"
With that all the tables were filled with food and everyone started to discuss about the new announcements and eat their food.
Harry, Hermione and Ron waved to Lupin and Figg who smiled back. Harry grabbed chicken with rice and garlic potatoes, Hermione nibbled on some turkey with vegetables while Ron filled the plate with whatever he could.
Ginny choked back a laugh when she found Ron struggling to swallow something hard. "Ron! You disgust us. Chew your food before swallowing"
"Sorry! Very hungry." he grinned back with his mouth full.
"Excuse me. Are you The Harry Potter?" asked a tentative first year to Harry.
"Here we go again", mumbled Harry stifling a laugh from Hermione. "Yes, and please call me Harry. I am no different from you. And to tell you the truth, I was more scared than you were, for my sorting event." Whispered in the boy's ear making him grin and shake his hands.
Harry and Hermione being prefects ushered the students to their respective dormitories. Once done with the formalities, they sat on the couches in the common room. Ron, Lavender and Ginny were seated across. Ron and Lavender were smirking at Harry and Hermione. They know that the Gryffindor prefects loved each other. It's just that they were stubborn at admitting their feelings that made Ron surprise or say annoyed sometimes.
"Harry! What are your plans for this year mate" asked a curious Ron.
"Well! We have Quidditch to practice for. Ron, it's great that you are keeper. Apart from that we have our Marauder gang to pull off pranks on stupid Slytherins" Harry chuckled with Ron.
"No Harry! You are a prefect and you should set an example to young Gryffindors. What if someone catches you? You will loose more points for Gryffindor" Hermione in an admonishing tone.
"Mione! Calm down. I am setting an example for Gryffindors to learn and fight Slytherins otherwise they will ride the kids all the time. As far as catching me is considered, they are yet to meet their luck.don't they?" smirked Harry.
Hermione already was a bit weak in her knees for Harry calling her like that nodded to what ever he said feeling a bit dazed. They all chatted a while and then went to bed.
The first week was nice as the classes started without any problems and Harry was getting along surprisingly even with Snape. Partly because, Snape when tried to embarrass Harry found that He was very good at Potions, decided to leave him alone. But unknown to many, Snape admired Harry, almost from their first year. But According to him, I"if everyone pampers him, it would get onto his head and eventually he would be a worthless git"/I and so he started being harsh with Harry.
Hermione is very proud of him. She was surprised when Snape nodded to Harry's potion without remarking. "See. If only you study a bit, you'd a be adored by every teacher."
"Mione! Stop it. You are making me feel bad. I don't want to be adored by every teacher. Everyone can do that to you. Besides, how will I pull pranks then?" asked a visibly careless Harry.
"Whatever. You are now coming with me to the library and no arguments" insisted Hermione and literally dragged him to the library despite Harry's protests.
Harry and Hermione sat opposite to each other. Harry started reading about Potions while Hermione read about Animagi. However, she couldn't really concentrate on the book. She started glancing at Harry and observed his facial features. Whenever Harry glanced at her, she would quickly get back to her book.
'Why is she peaking at me? Does she like me?...or is there something on my face?' Harry thought.
'Why doesn't he look at me? Am I that ugly?...or is he really interested in that book?' Hermione thought.
However, their trail of thoughts was immediately disturbed by a familiar voice.
"Well, let's see. Famous Harry Potter and his girlfriend how touching." it was Malfoy. He did not have the dripping sarcasm in his voice anymore. It's more sort of forced comment, which Harry realized immediately.
"What do you want Malfoy!" Harry asked coldly.
"Potter! I need to talk to you..alone" Malfoy spoke seriously, glancing towards Hermione.
Harry thought for a second and nodded to Hermione. She reluctantly walked away towards the entrance and waited outside.
"What is it Malfoy?" Harry asked again.
"I am only here to tell you to be careful in the first Quidditch match against Ravenclaw.." Malfoy tried to remind Harry about the change in match up.
"Why do you care?" asked Harry with the same coldness.
"I...Let's just say that I do care Potter. Don't even ask why, it is immaterial to you. But if I were you I would be careful" Malfoy repeated this time.
"What should I be careful about?" asked Harry, trying to get more information.
"Unfortunately I do not know.Harry. I managed to overhear this conversation and thought it is important for you to know." Malfoy stood up and walked out.
As he came out, he faced Hermione looking at him piercingly.
"Don't look at me like that Granger. I didn't do anything to your precious Potter." smirked Malfoy and walked away.
Hermione quickly walked in and found Harry deeply thinking.
"Harry! What happened? What did Malfoy talk about?" she questioned eagerly.
Harry broke his thoughts and explained everything to Hermione. She shrugged and looked at him worried.
"I don't know if Malfoy is up to something or what he told is true. But oh...Harry, be careful." Said a worried Hermione.
"Don't worry Mione! I will be careful. What really confuses me is that he called me with my first name", said a surprised Harry.
Harry is really busy. He is a prefect, Quidditch captain, had extra classes and was practicing dueling.
The team now comprised of himself as seeker, Ron as keeper, Ginny, Colin and Leah as chasers and Seamus & Dean as beaters. Ron would come up with brilliant strategies and undertake training sessions as well.
On top of these, Hermione dragged Harry to library every evening and Ron was getting frustrated.
"What the hell is going on Hermione? Why don't you let Harry have some fun? How come you always boss him around?"
"Ron. Don't be a stupid. Harry has to work hard. He needs good grades. I am not bossing him and I am one of his best friends. Actually, you should also start joining us" crossed Hermione.
"Oh dear! Let me live mum. I don't want to cross you ever" Ron ran out of the portrait leaving Hermione laughing.
* * *
"Harry! Can I ask you something?" asked Hermione hesitatingly, closing her book.
"Sure Mione! Anything" replied Harry.
"You said you learnt some stuff during holidays. Can you teach me?" she asked
Harry was surprised 'teaching Hermione Granger, wow!' he laughed.
"What are you laughing at" she playfully slapped his shoulder.
"Nothing. I thought there isn't anything that you should learn." chuckling.
"Oh! Now you want to make fun of me too. I am so mad at you Harry Potter" Hermione pouted with fake anger.
"I am sorry Mione! I will make up to you. I promise!" pleaded Harry.
'Oh! I can't resist when he calls me with that name and his beautiful eyes, I can stare into them forever...', sighed Hermione giving up.
They started meeting every night after dinner in an empty classroom in the fifth floor where normally none of the students walk around.
IOn the third meeting./I
Hermione shouted all the curses she knew. But Harry stood there smiling, shielding all of them without any effort. Hermione shouted "Inflamare" and shot a gust of flames at Harry and Harry said something making a gush of water sprouting out of his wand stopping the fire.
"Harry! What is that?" asked a surprised Hermione.
"Oh! Nothing Mione. Are you tired?" asked Harry smirking.
Hermione put up a stern face and started attacking him, all the while surprising in her mind and Harry not even sweating to stopped all her curses.
"Harry! You are supposed to attack me. I should learn to shield too, remember?" shouted Hermione.
"Ok!" accepted Harry. He merely sent a Jelly legs curse breaking Hermione's shield and making her legs wobble and fall on the ground.
"How?...what...?" Hermione was shocked that a simple curse broke her shield she thought was strong.
Harry ran to her and tried to check if she is Ok. "Mione! Are you ok?"
Hermione looked up at him coyly and said "so typical of you Potter. Always caring about me" she smiled and yelled "Expelliarmus", making Harry's wand slip into hers and throwing him 5 feet.
"Hey! You cheated me" accused Harry.
"Give up? I win anyway" she shrugged smiling at him.
"No! I do not give up. Let's continue" Harry defiantly stood up.
"But Harry. You can't do much without a wand" Hermione hesitated but when she found that Harry wasn't moving and stood in an attacking position, she thought, 'Why not just finish it up' and shouted "Petrificus Totalus" at Harry.
Harry mumbled "Aegis" and waved his hand to bring a powerful shield around him deflecting the curse, shocking Hermione. He immediately yelled "Expelliarmus" and waved his hand at Hermione and she flew 15 feet while her wand reaching Harry. She fell, luckily on a cushion of carpet in the corner.
Harry ran up to her. "Hermione! Are you alright?" Harry asked worriedly.
Hermione was still in shock. 'Harry can do wandless magic and he can do some other things..that....wait a minute! it's elemental magic. Yes, that's how he summoned water' She finally pulled through the puzzle.
She looked up to his worried face. "Harry why didn't you tell me that you knew Wandless and Elemental magic?" sternly crossing her hands.
Harry stood still. He knew that Hermione is smart and she can put 2 and 2 together. But he didn't realize she'd figure out so fast.
'Damn! Why do I give in like that?' thought Harry. He is a bit scared now.
"Hermione! I am going to tell you about thi.", he was cut short immediately by Hermione.
"Harry! I am your best friend and why do you want to hide things from me? Do you know how dangerous it is to practice this kind of magic without help or supervision? I thought you knew me better and told me. I could have helped you", mumbled Hermione with a bit of shock, anger and admiration.
"Hermione! Relax. I always wanted to tell you. I also wanted to surprise you. I always thought you as my best friend. Actually, you were much more to me."
'Oh no! what did I say' suddenly adjusting his throat he continued.
"I mean, you were there for me from the day one. I owe you a lot. But please do not take it the wrong way. As of helping me, I am sure I couldn't find anyone better than you. But Arabella helped me through the learning".
Hermione's face lit up for the first few sentences, but dulled later and certainly her face fell when she heard the last sentence. She wanted to be there for him when he wanted and help him through. She wanted to be that someone who he relied upon and took the help from. Now, in one summer, Arabella took her position from her. Hermione felt really miserable.
Harry thought that she is still mad at him. He walked closer and held her hands.
"Hermione! Please don't be mad at me. I never intentionally did it. I meant what I said".
Hermione looked into his eyes.
'Oh! Those green pools'
How she longed to be immersed in those. She almost leaned for a kiss. Harry's mind is running fast. He wanted to kiss her so bad. He looked into her brown eyes and lost in time.
'Control Hermione! He is your best friend for god's sake. You will only destroy your beautiful friendship. Atleast that's the best you can get from Harry.'
"Oh...ok!" Hermione recovered quickly leaving a disappointed Harry behind.
"I am sorry I reacted too much Harry. You are my best friend and we helped each other from our first year. I was only worried about you".
I'Damn! I love you Harry and I can't say that to you.'/I Hermione screamed in her mind.
Author's Note 1: This is my first fic. Please let me know of your opinion and I shall try and improve. I did borrow some original ideas from several great writers around this archive, only to improve upon them. I do not mean any disrespect to them. Thanks.
bNOTE:/b " " - normal talking. ' ' - thinking
Chapter 4: Back to Hogwarts
On September 1st Harry and Hermione along with her parents went to Kings cross station. Grangers hugged both the kids and wished them good luck for the 6th year. Harry and Hermione went onto the platform and onto the train quickly trying to find Ron. He is nowhere to be seen. After sometime when the train was moving Ron came into their compartment, grinning madly.
"Why are you grinning like a fool?" asked Harry
"Nothing" said Ron dreamily
"There is something and tell me what is it?" pressed Harry
Hermione is looking surprised at Ron. He is still dreaming.
"LAVENDERAGREEDTOGOWITME" blurted very quickly
"What?...Oh great Ron. Congratulations" Harry shook hands with Ron. But Hermione didn't understand a bit.
"What is it Ron? I didn't get it" she was curious to know what's going on.
"Oh no! No second chance." Smiled Ron and as she looked at Harry he smiled and shrugged with a helpless look on his face.
"Fine. If I am not so wanted, I better keep to myself." And she huffed past them outside despite the boys protest.
Ron and Harry ignored it and started playing exploding craps.
After what seemed like a few minutes, a shocked Hermione walked in with confusion written all over her face.
"What is Hermione? Something wrong?" asked a worried Harry.
"It's Malfoy! He..", she was cut off by Ron "Did he say anything to you" building up rage.
"No! I mean, I ran into him and he looked sorry and apologized me. He was also addressing me with my last name. After that he didn't look at me in the eye. I warned him but he didn't reply." A still puzzled Hermione replied.
"Maybe he is up to something?" suggested Ron
"I don't know Ron" shrugged Harry.
Finally they gave up and Hermione started to read Hogwarts: a History as usual, but Harry opened up a book of Ancient Runes and started reading it, much to the shock of Ron.
"Harry!...are you ok? I mean, what did Hermione do to you while you were there?" asked a bewildered Ron ignoring glares from Hermione.
"Nothing Ron. I just wanted to make full use of my last 2 years at Hogwarts. Be prepared for you-know-who, just incase."
But Ron is still shocked and thought he would go mental if he stayed there long. He excused himself to find Ginny and the twins and walked out. Hermione laughed and settled herself besides Harry, obviously impressed by both his attitude and proud for rubbing on him.
"Harry! What are your plans for this year?" asked Hermione playing with his fingers.
"Hmm...I am going to drop Divination and take up both Ancient Runes & Arithmancy"
"Wow Harry! That is great, I mean, I will help you Arithmancy as you are 2 years behind" Hermione hugged Harry and smiled.
After an hour or so, both felt really tired and leaned onto each other and dozed off.
Ron, Ginny and the twins came in only to be surprised at the scene. Hermione is leaning her head on Harry shoulder while Harry is resting on her head. She is also holding his hand, intertwining her fingers.
"Aww...isn't that cute!" sighed Ginny, waking up both Harry and Hermione. They quickly detached and composed themselves.
"Guys! How long were you here? And why didn't you wake me up?" questioned a puzzled Harry.
All of them smiled coyly at Harry and continued to pack their things and change into robes. Hermione and Ginny went into the toilet and changed into their robes.
After wishing Hagrid the trio along with Ginny got into a horseless carriage and headed to Hogwarts. Harry was very happy to see Hogwarts. It's like being home again. Ron spoke thoughtfully.
"Don't you find it a little odd? I mean Malfoy didn't even come and bother us?"
"Oh! Shut it Ron. Let's just enjoy our time this year", suggested Hermione.
All four got down and walked into great hall. Once seated, the first years walked in, ushered by McGonagall. The hat had a new song, which they all enjoyed and the sorting finished rather quickly.
Gryffindor got 7, Slytherin got 9, Hufflepuff got 8 while Ravenclaw got 7. Dumbledore hushed everyone by standing up for announcements.
"Welcome everyone for another wonderful year at Hogwarts. I am sure you will fill your empty brains and walk down the path of good. First and foremost, the forbidden forest is restricted to all the students. No student should walk at night after 10, without being accompanied by a prefect, Head boy or girl or a professor."
Dumbledore paused smiling.
"On a happier note, we are going continue having a dueling class along with DADA. And I am happy to welcome professor Remus Lupin to teach the class, while Arabella Figg will continue with the regular DADA."
Everyone clapped loud, with the Slytherin being the faintest and Gryffindor, the loudest. After the noise subsided Dumbledore continued.
"And for the most important event: mumble jumble"
With that all the tables were filled with food and everyone started to discuss about the new announcements and eat their food.
Harry, Hermione and Ron waved to Lupin and Figg who smiled back. Harry grabbed chicken with rice and garlic potatoes, Hermione nibbled on some turkey with vegetables while Ron filled the plate with whatever he could.
Ginny choked back a laugh when she found Ron struggling to swallow something hard. "Ron! You disgust us. Chew your food before swallowing"
"Sorry! Very hungry." he grinned back with his mouth full.
"Excuse me. Are you The Harry Potter?" asked a tentative first year to Harry.
"Here we go again", mumbled Harry stifling a laugh from Hermione. "Yes, and please call me Harry. I am no different from you. And to tell you the truth, I was more scared than you were, for my sorting event." Whispered in the boy's ear making him grin and shake his hands.
Harry and Hermione being prefects ushered the students to their respective dormitories. Once done with the formalities, they sat on the couches in the common room. Ron, Lavender and Ginny were seated across. Ron and Lavender were smirking at Harry and Hermione. They know that the Gryffindor prefects loved each other. It's just that they were stubborn at admitting their feelings that made Ron surprise or say annoyed sometimes.
"Harry! What are your plans for this year mate" asked a curious Ron.
"Well! We have Quidditch to practice for. Ron, it's great that you are keeper. Apart from that we have our Marauder gang to pull off pranks on stupid Slytherins" Harry chuckled with Ron.
"No Harry! You are a prefect and you should set an example to young Gryffindors. What if someone catches you? You will loose more points for Gryffindor" Hermione in an admonishing tone.
"Mione! Calm down. I am setting an example for Gryffindors to learn and fight Slytherins otherwise they will ride the kids all the time. As far as catching me is considered, they are yet to meet their luck.don't they?" smirked Harry.
Hermione already was a bit weak in her knees for Harry calling her like that nodded to what ever he said feeling a bit dazed. They all chatted a while and then went to bed.
The first week was nice as the classes started without any problems and Harry was getting along surprisingly even with Snape. Partly because, Snape when tried to embarrass Harry found that He was very good at Potions, decided to leave him alone. But unknown to many, Snape admired Harry, almost from their first year. But According to him, I"if everyone pampers him, it would get onto his head and eventually he would be a worthless git"/I and so he started being harsh with Harry.
Hermione is very proud of him. She was surprised when Snape nodded to Harry's potion without remarking. "See. If only you study a bit, you'd a be adored by every teacher."
"Mione! Stop it. You are making me feel bad. I don't want to be adored by every teacher. Everyone can do that to you. Besides, how will I pull pranks then?" asked a visibly careless Harry.
"Whatever. You are now coming with me to the library and no arguments" insisted Hermione and literally dragged him to the library despite Harry's protests.
Harry and Hermione sat opposite to each other. Harry started reading about Potions while Hermione read about Animagi. However, she couldn't really concentrate on the book. She started glancing at Harry and observed his facial features. Whenever Harry glanced at her, she would quickly get back to her book.
'Why is she peaking at me? Does she like me?...or is there something on my face?' Harry thought.
'Why doesn't he look at me? Am I that ugly?...or is he really interested in that book?' Hermione thought.
However, their trail of thoughts was immediately disturbed by a familiar voice.
"Well, let's see. Famous Harry Potter and his girlfriend how touching." it was Malfoy. He did not have the dripping sarcasm in his voice anymore. It's more sort of forced comment, which Harry realized immediately.
"What do you want Malfoy!" Harry asked coldly.
"Potter! I need to talk to you..alone" Malfoy spoke seriously, glancing towards Hermione.
Harry thought for a second and nodded to Hermione. She reluctantly walked away towards the entrance and waited outside.
"What is it Malfoy?" Harry asked again.
"I am only here to tell you to be careful in the first Quidditch match against Ravenclaw.." Malfoy tried to remind Harry about the change in match up.
"Why do you care?" asked Harry with the same coldness.
"I...Let's just say that I do care Potter. Don't even ask why, it is immaterial to you. But if I were you I would be careful" Malfoy repeated this time.
"What should I be careful about?" asked Harry, trying to get more information.
"Unfortunately I do not know.Harry. I managed to overhear this conversation and thought it is important for you to know." Malfoy stood up and walked out.
As he came out, he faced Hermione looking at him piercingly.
"Don't look at me like that Granger. I didn't do anything to your precious Potter." smirked Malfoy and walked away.
Hermione quickly walked in and found Harry deeply thinking.
"Harry! What happened? What did Malfoy talk about?" she questioned eagerly.
Harry broke his thoughts and explained everything to Hermione. She shrugged and looked at him worried.
"I don't know if Malfoy is up to something or what he told is true. But oh...Harry, be careful." Said a worried Hermione.
"Don't worry Mione! I will be careful. What really confuses me is that he called me with my first name", said a surprised Harry.
Harry is really busy. He is a prefect, Quidditch captain, had extra classes and was practicing dueling.
The team now comprised of himself as seeker, Ron as keeper, Ginny, Colin and Leah as chasers and Seamus & Dean as beaters. Ron would come up with brilliant strategies and undertake training sessions as well.
On top of these, Hermione dragged Harry to library every evening and Ron was getting frustrated.
"What the hell is going on Hermione? Why don't you let Harry have some fun? How come you always boss him around?"
"Ron. Don't be a stupid. Harry has to work hard. He needs good grades. I am not bossing him and I am one of his best friends. Actually, you should also start joining us" crossed Hermione.
"Oh dear! Let me live mum. I don't want to cross you ever" Ron ran out of the portrait leaving Hermione laughing.
* * *
"Harry! Can I ask you something?" asked Hermione hesitatingly, closing her book.
"Sure Mione! Anything" replied Harry.
"You said you learnt some stuff during holidays. Can you teach me?" she asked
Harry was surprised 'teaching Hermione Granger, wow!' he laughed.
"What are you laughing at" she playfully slapped his shoulder.
"Nothing. I thought there isn't anything that you should learn." chuckling.
"Oh! Now you want to make fun of me too. I am so mad at you Harry Potter" Hermione pouted with fake anger.
"I am sorry Mione! I will make up to you. I promise!" pleaded Harry.
'Oh! I can't resist when he calls me with that name and his beautiful eyes, I can stare into them forever...', sighed Hermione giving up.
They started meeting every night after dinner in an empty classroom in the fifth floor where normally none of the students walk around.
IOn the third meeting./I
Hermione shouted all the curses she knew. But Harry stood there smiling, shielding all of them without any effort. Hermione shouted "Inflamare" and shot a gust of flames at Harry and Harry said something making a gush of water sprouting out of his wand stopping the fire.
"Harry! What is that?" asked a surprised Hermione.
"Oh! Nothing Mione. Are you tired?" asked Harry smirking.
Hermione put up a stern face and started attacking him, all the while surprising in her mind and Harry not even sweating to stopped all her curses.
"Harry! You are supposed to attack me. I should learn to shield too, remember?" shouted Hermione.
"Ok!" accepted Harry. He merely sent a Jelly legs curse breaking Hermione's shield and making her legs wobble and fall on the ground.
"How?...what...?" Hermione was shocked that a simple curse broke her shield she thought was strong.
Harry ran to her and tried to check if she is Ok. "Mione! Are you ok?"
Hermione looked up at him coyly and said "so typical of you Potter. Always caring about me" she smiled and yelled "Expelliarmus", making Harry's wand slip into hers and throwing him 5 feet.
"Hey! You cheated me" accused Harry.
"Give up? I win anyway" she shrugged smiling at him.
"No! I do not give up. Let's continue" Harry defiantly stood up.
"But Harry. You can't do much without a wand" Hermione hesitated but when she found that Harry wasn't moving and stood in an attacking position, she thought, 'Why not just finish it up' and shouted "Petrificus Totalus" at Harry.
Harry mumbled "Aegis" and waved his hand to bring a powerful shield around him deflecting the curse, shocking Hermione. He immediately yelled "Expelliarmus" and waved his hand at Hermione and she flew 15 feet while her wand reaching Harry. She fell, luckily on a cushion of carpet in the corner.
Harry ran up to her. "Hermione! Are you alright?" Harry asked worriedly.
Hermione was still in shock. 'Harry can do wandless magic and he can do some other things..that....wait a minute! it's elemental magic. Yes, that's how he summoned water' She finally pulled through the puzzle.
She looked up to his worried face. "Harry why didn't you tell me that you knew Wandless and Elemental magic?" sternly crossing her hands.
Harry stood still. He knew that Hermione is smart and she can put 2 and 2 together. But he didn't realize she'd figure out so fast.
'Damn! Why do I give in like that?' thought Harry. He is a bit scared now.
"Hermione! I am going to tell you about thi.", he was cut short immediately by Hermione.
"Harry! I am your best friend and why do you want to hide things from me? Do you know how dangerous it is to practice this kind of magic without help or supervision? I thought you knew me better and told me. I could have helped you", mumbled Hermione with a bit of shock, anger and admiration.
"Hermione! Relax. I always wanted to tell you. I also wanted to surprise you. I always thought you as my best friend. Actually, you were much more to me."
'Oh no! what did I say' suddenly adjusting his throat he continued.
"I mean, you were there for me from the day one. I owe you a lot. But please do not take it the wrong way. As of helping me, I am sure I couldn't find anyone better than you. But Arabella helped me through the learning".
Hermione's face lit up for the first few sentences, but dulled later and certainly her face fell when she heard the last sentence. She wanted to be there for him when he wanted and help him through. She wanted to be that someone who he relied upon and took the help from. Now, in one summer, Arabella took her position from her. Hermione felt really miserable.
Harry thought that she is still mad at him. He walked closer and held her hands.
"Hermione! Please don't be mad at me. I never intentionally did it. I meant what I said".
Hermione looked into his eyes.
'Oh! Those green pools'
How she longed to be immersed in those. She almost leaned for a kiss. Harry's mind is running fast. He wanted to kiss her so bad. He looked into her brown eyes and lost in time.
'Control Hermione! He is your best friend for god's sake. You will only destroy your beautiful friendship. Atleast that's the best you can get from Harry.'
"Oh...ok!" Hermione recovered quickly leaving a disappointed Harry behind.
"I am sorry I reacted too much Harry. You are my best friend and we helped each other from our first year. I was only worried about you".
I'Damn! I love you Harry and I can't say that to you.'/I Hermione screamed in her mind.