Harry started work the next week with the Unspeakables and was asked to concentrate on new magic and defensive spells. There wasn't the same urgency in this area as there had been a couple years ago but it was still a very important section and he would be doing what Godric Gryffindor asked him to do, keep learning. Harry liked this idea more than working with the unknown artifacts as he would be learning new spells and new ways to defend himself instead of spending a lot of time working with something you may never figure out.
Debbie Bailey was anxious to work with him on even more advance apparation, since she had heard that Harry apparated out of Hogwarts which has very strong anti-apparation barriers. She also heard that Harry could pull people with him when he apparates without becoming very tired and this was also something she wanted to explore. Within the Unspeakables, Debbie was by far the most talented at apparation.
Hermione had already started planning out her year at the university. When Harry came home from work, she was usually in the library reading. One evening, Harry saw Hermione reading a magazine article with a picture of an older gentleman and asked her about it. "Oh, this is Dr. Stonham. He's the leading expert in the research field I'm going to concentrate on and runs a big research facility in Venice," Hermione said and then went on to tell Harry way more than he ever cared about. Harry tried to sit and act interested since he knew it was important to her.
When she finally finished he remembered to ask about something they had talked about before. "Remember us talking about taking a trip when we were out of school?" Hermione looked at him. "Do you still want to do it this summer? We could ask Ron if he wanted to go."
Hermione looked disappointed. "I won't have much time. I have to go to the school to decide on which classes I'm going to take and then there's orientation," Hermione stated.
"What about a long weekend? I can arrange something so you don't have to worry about that. You really need a break before you get wrapped up in school again," Harry pleaded to his best friend.
"Fine, if you can do it in the next month I'll be able to go. I'm just so anxious to start at the university," Hermione answered sounding a bit more excited.
Harry had an idea but knew that he would need Sirius' help to pull it together. He quickly wrote Sirius a note describing what he had in mind. Over the next week, Harry was able to get the information he wanted from Sirius and then had to write other notes to see if he could pull the plan together. Harry knew Ron wouldn't want to go, and this was confirmed by note from Ron, but this was a trip for Hermione anyway. By the middle of the next week, everything had been arranged. Harry told Hermione that the next Friday they would leave for the weekend.
"You've been sending and receiving a lot of owls. You have to tell me where we're going Harry," Hermione demanded.
Harry stuck up his nose and said, "Nope. It's a surprise and you'll just have to live with it. You need a couple days off and I've taken care of everything."
Hermione kept pleading, "But what should I pack? C'mon tell me where we're going."
"The climate is a bit warmer than here. Also, you'll need at least one nice outfit. We'll be doing a bit of walking as well. If you need something else, we'll get it there. I think there are stores around," Harry said this last part trying to fake a puzzled look.
During the next week, Harry had to perform an Envoy duty and go visit the Giants for a few days. The Ministry was trying to host a reception for two main clans. Harry already knew the leader of the Gulas clan, but he didn't know anyone from the Guthan clan. This would be the Ministry's first contact with the Guthan clan. Harry arrived on the outskirts of their camp and was quickly surrounded by the guards.
Harry quickly announced feeling a bit worried by the six huge men standing around him, "Hello. I am the Envoy from the Ministry of Magic. I've come to meet with your representative."
One of the guards got a threatening look slammed his club on the ground making the area shake. "And why would we want to meet with you?" the giant bellowed.
Harry tried to remember the wording and actions the Ministry had told him to try. "To foster better relations between Giants and Wizards. The Ministry has neglected this relationship too long," Harry answered trying to sound confident. He had been briefed on what to expect.
"Why would we want better relations?" The guard asked sounding like he didn't care less about wizards, obviously acting like Giants had nothing to gain by the relationship or fear from wizards.
Harry knew this was coming and had been given a hint from the leader of the other clan on what to do. Concentrating very hard as he had done during his Advanced N.E.W.T. presentation, Harry caused the ground to start shaking for a few seconds. Harry stopped the spell and gave the Giant a questioning look. The guards looked at each other and then the lead guard turned without saying a word and led Harry further into the camp.
Harry met with a representative for a couple hours, but this representative really wasn't anyone of authority either and finally after a few hours, Harry was introduced to the leader of this clan; Dentor. Dentor was much younger than Duram, the leader of the Gulas clan. Harry was already annoyed with how this was going. He expected this clan to be like the Gulas clan and to be nice and accommodating. Now Harry was regretting accepting the Envoy position since he hated politics and all of the power games that went along with it.
Dentor seemed arrogant and didn't want to show any respect. Finally Harry said, "Sir, if the Guthan clan doesn't wish to change the current relations with the Ministry, we understand that. We are comfortable dealing exclusively with the Gulas clan and can make them our sole point of contact. Duram has already expressed his desire for better relations."
Harry started to get up but Dentor spoke up and asked him to sit back down. After that things went along much better. The leaders of the Giants were just like the leaders of the Ministry, Harry thought. Some are ok, but most just want to try and show you how much power they have. Harry had planned on going home that night but it took much longer to deal with Dentor than he anticipated, so Harry asked for a place to stay. One of the low-level representatives led him to an area in one of their stables that reminded Harry of when he and Cho fell asleep for a bit when visiting the Giants near Hogwarts.
The next morning, Harry woke up and went directly to the Gulas camp, where he was greeted much more warmly. This meeting was more like catching up with old friends. Harry had presented Duram with an ornate set of knives the Ministry had provided. When he went to give a gift to Belissa, Duram's wife, Duram spoke up. "It is not necessary to you to give a gift to my wife every time you know."
Harry smiled, "But sir, if I'm not mistaken this gift is meant to be enjoyed by you." Harry handed the package to the female giant and saw the large smile when she opened it. It was Sioni Oil, a perfume the giants had trouble getting and a gift that Harry already knew Belissa liked. They talked for much of the day, especially about Quidditch, and the final battle with Voldemort. Duram had come to Dumbledore's funeral but hadn't heard all the details of what happened. Belissa seemed to fuss over Harry and always made sure he had something to drink and eat. Harry thought that if she was about two meters shorter, it would be just like Mrs. Weasley.
Duram suggested Harry spend the night there and this clan had provided a nice bed in one of the buildings. The next morning, Harry said his goodbyes and went back to the Ministry to give his report. The Ministry officials seemed very pleased and now there were going to be contacts between other Ministry employees and representatives from the Giants. Seeing Duram again had been great, but if most of the contacts were going to be like the meeting with the Guthan clan, Harry really didn't enjoy the thought. Out of respect for Mr. Weasley, he decided to give it a fair shot and go on some more missions before making a decision.
Harry and Hermione were ready to go on their little trip Friday afternoon and Harry still hadn't told her where they were going. "I can't believe I'm letting you take me somewhere without telling me where we're going," Hermione said sounding exasperated.
Harry faked being hurt by the comments, "I can't believe you don't trust me."
"Oh, you know I trust you with anything," she replied not buying that he was bothered by her comments.
Harry smiled at his friend and said, "Then take my hand." Hermione shook her head at him before taking his hand and they apparated away. A moment later they were in the lobby of a small bed and breakfast wizarding hotel. Hermione still didn't know where in the world they were. Harry quickly checked in and got their room keys. The two friends were staying in adjoining rooms on the top floor.
Once they reached their rooms Harry followed Hermione into her room and watched her go directly to the window so he could see her expression when she realized where they were. "We're in Venice! Why did you pick here?"
Harry smiled, "Well, I heard you mention it the other day and it seemed nice so I just picked it. Is this ok with you?"
"This is perfect. I've always wanted to come here. Oh, can we ride a gondola?" Hermione asked sounding like a little kid.
It made Harry really happy to see Hermione so excited. "We can do anything you want, except for tomorrow night, because I have supper plans for us. Don't be mad, but I'm mixing a little business with pleasure."
Harry opened the connecting door and put his bag in his room. The couple went outside and started walking around the historic city. Hermione wanted to see a Muggle museum and after stopping to ask directions many times, they finally arrived. Harry wasn't very interested but was amused at Hermione's excitement as she led him all around the museum. It was time to eat when Harry was finally able to drag Hermione out of the building.
Walking along one of the canals, they spotted what looked
like a nice restaurant with large windows and decided to eat there. Luckily the
hostess recognized Harry and put them in a private booth near the window. Hermione was smiling broadly at her friend so
Harry finally had to ask, "What are you thinking?
She blushed and said, "I just can't believe we're doing this. Just last year we were happy to spend time at
the Burrow before going to school, and now we're in Venice for the weekend."
"If you weren't going to be studying so much, we could do this more often."
"I know, but I really want to continue school. You're not mad are you?" Hermione asked feeling a little guilty knowing she wouldn't be able to spend so much time with Harry.
"Not at all," Harry replied instantly. "I'm proud of you for working so hard. It still amazes me that you know what you want to do. My jobs have just fallen into my lap. I wouldn't have a clue if things hadn't happened the way they did."
The friends lingered in the restaurant talking for a long time and finally took a gondola ride back to the hotel before going to bed. Early the next morning Hermione coming into his room saying, "Get up, we're in Venice we need to go see things" woke Harry up.
Harry groaned, "I should have left you at home. Let me sleep."
Hermione was having none of that and started throwing things at him. "Ok, get out and I'll take a shower." Harry yelled. Hermione left the room but also left the connecting door open. Harry liked the fact she was so comfortable with him. He quickly went to the shower and cleaned up. Twenty minutes later he was dressed and ready to go.
They walked around again until they found an outdoor café serving breakfast. The two had a nice breakfast then went to an art gallery Hermione wanted to see. Harry let Hermione drag him around until late afternoon when he reminded her about plans for the evening and that they needed to go get ready.
All the time while she was getting ready she kept asking what this business was that Harry had to do. Of course Harry wouldn't tell her anything which infuriated her.
When Hermione was finally ready, she found out Harry had asked for a carriage to take them to the restaurant. Stepping out of the hotel, she saw a fancy white carriage being pulled by a large horse waiting for them. Harry could see Hermione beaming with happiness during the ride. They arrived at a very nice restaurant where Harry had reservations for a private table. Harry and Hermione sat on the same since Harry said they were expecting two more people. Harry enjoyed listening to Hermione try to figure out who the other people were going to be, but he wouldn't tell.
The couple had started drinking their wine when Hermione suddenly sat up and said, "Oh my gosh! That's Dr. Stonham." Harry asked something but Hermione went on talking, ignoring Harry's question. "He's coming this way. What's he doing?"
Harry stood up when the man approached their table. "Harry Potter. I can't tell you what a pleasure it is to
meet you."
Harry took the old man's hand and replied, "Dr. Stonham. I really appreciate you going through this trouble for me. This is my friend, Hermione Granger. Is this your grandson?"
Dr. Stonham shook Hermione's hand and said, "Nice to meet you Miss Granger." She still didn't say anything. "Yes, this is Alex. He's the big fan I was telling you about."
Harry bent down and shook the shy boy's hand. "Hello Alex. Your grandfather mentioned you like Quidditch. I've brought you a couple things." Harry enlarged a couple of tubes and removed two posters. "The first one is Viktor Krum catching the snitch in the finals this year. I wish it had been me, but Viktor is a friend of mine and signed the poster for you. The other one is me catching the snitch the last time Viktor and I played. This is right before we crashed into the stands."
The boy looked awestruck and stuttered, "T-t-t-thank you."
The old man laughed and said, "He couldn't stop talking all the way over hear. Speak up Alex."
They all sat down and Harry said, "Hermione is starting at the university in London this year and is a big admirer of your work. She got the best grades in Hogwarts history and is the smartest witch I know."
Hermione was having trouble talking as well but slowly began conversing with the man. During the meal, it seemed they were two separate couples at the table. Hermione and Dr. Stonham and then Harry and Alex. Alex had finally started talking and kept asking Harry questions. Hermione kept asking the Dr. questions.
After a long meal Dr. Stonham spoke, "I promised to have Alex home soon. It was a pleasure to meet you both. Keep what I said in mind Hermione. Thanks again for the gifts Harry."
"Thank you sir for making the time for us. I appreciate it," Harry shook both of their hands and they left. Hermione and Harry sat in silence while Harry paid and then walked out a moment later and got back into the carriage for the ride home. Harry asked the driver to take a scenic way back. Hermione still hadn't said anything since leaving and Harry was content to let her just sit there with a big smile on her face. Finally she looked at him and said, "I cannot believe you did that for me. This is the nicest thing ever."
"You deserve it Hermione. You're going to be working hard before long and I wanted to make sure we did something you would remember," Harry said, now with a big smile on his face since he knew Hermione had really enjoyed the evening.
Hermione leaned into his shoulder and sat in silence the rest of the way back to the hotel. Before going to bed, the two decided to sit in the lounge and have another glass of wine, after which they went upstairs and entered through Hermione's door. Harry directly opened the connecting door and Hermione said, "Thank you so much Harry." Harry turned and Hermione hugged him and gave him a kiss right on the lips. Harry instinctively pulled her tight even though he was surprised by her action, and after a few seconds, Hermione broke off. "Oh. I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have. I didn't mean..."
Harry felt bad since he kind of wanted her to mean it, but knew it was probably the wine and the excitement of the evening. Trying hard, he forced a smile and said, "Don't worry about it. I understand it wasn't personal. We had a bit to drink; you met a hero of yours tonight and got caught up in the moment. Anyway, you keep telling me we're just roommates, so I already know how you feel. Goodnight Hermione, I'm really glad you enjoyed the evening." Harry quickly entered his room and closed the joining door.
Harry felt really confused and unhappy. Part of him thought about pursuing more with Hermione, but he didn't want to risk having anything happen to their friendship and he knew she was focused on school right now. He kept thinking how Hermione and Ron were now; they never were quite the same once they broke up. Harry fell back onto his bed, not even bothering to get undressed. He was really happy Hermione liked the evening, but also unhappy about how it ended.
Hermione didn't move for the longest time. She stood there staring at the closed door separating their rooms with many thoughts running through her head. She had just kissed Harry, her best friend in the world on the lips. She had wanted to do it for so long and now she had just done it. Thinking of how she nearly melted when he pulled her tight made her blush. Why did she pull back? Oh, she felt so stupid. She wasn't a little girl anymore but had just acted like one. What did Harry mean when he said that he understood it wasn't personal? Of course it was personal, that was the best snog of her life! She wondered if she really had kept saying that they were just roommates. He wouldn't have said that if it weren't true. Did she mess things up? No, this was Harry, she hadn't messed things up. But what does he think? Obviously he doesn't think I see him as anything other than a roommate. Have I been trying too hard to just be friends? Hermione sat down with her back to the door and just thought for a long time before going to bed.
The next morning after getting ready and packing Hermione went to wake Harry up; nervous about how this would go. This time when she knocked on the door, he just called "Come in". Harry was fully dressed, packed and ready to go. She took this as a sign he didn't want to talk about last night.
Harry wasn't going to mention the kiss again. If Hermione had felt it was wrong, then he wouldn't say anything. He didn't want to do anything to make her feel in the least bit uncomfortable. "Let's go get breakfast before heading home," he said in a light-hearted voice and carried both bags downstairs. The couple found an outdoor café close and ate a light breakfast only making small-talk before taking a short walk and then returning for their bags.
They arrived back home a few minutes later and Harry quickly carried the bags upstairs, putting Hermione's on her bed and throwing his into his room. Hermione was debating on talking to Harry about the kiss but didn't get the feeling that Harry wanted to talk and before she knew it, they were both doing their own things and she didn't think she should bring it up.
Things quickly went back into the routine of Harry working, Hermione visiting the school and reading her schoolbooks before the classes even started. Any thoughts of the kiss seemed to be gone forever. Harry came to Hermione one day after work. "Hermione. Do you want to go to the reception for the Giants with me next Wednesday? There will be some activities during the day and then a ball that evening."
"Oh Harry, I can't on Wednesday. We have an orientation at school and I really can't miss it. I won't know where anything is," she said sounding sad.
Harry was disappointed but tried to be supportive and said, "Oh, that's ok, it probably won't be that fun anyway."
"Why don't you ask Ginny?" Hermione asked.
"I can't bring the Minister's daughter to a Ministry function. Think how many people would talk. That wouldn't look good," Harry answered sounding very serious.
"My you are taking your work seriously," Hermione joked. "Sorry I can't go."
Next Wednesday came and before Harry left for the day with the giants, Hermione said, "It won't be too bad going by yourself."
Harry looked confused and said, "Oh, I'm not going by myself, Kristi's coming. She seemed to be really interested in the Giants." Harry hadn't said this with any attitude or anything, just as a fact.
Hermione felt a sharp pain. She had chosen to go to an orientation at school instead of going with Harry to an important function and now Kristi was going in her place. She kicked herself. Of course Harry wouldn't go by himself; he has his choice of nearly any girl. Oh, she wanted that choice back again.
Before leaving, Harry told her to have a nice time at her orientation. He hadn't been sarcastic and she knew he truly meant it but that fact made Hermione feel even worse. Harry really did want her to have a good time. He had just taken her on a trip that was all about her, where she got to meet a scientist she respected more than any other because of Harry. And she wouldn't give up an orientation to be with him.
Harry apparated outside of Kristi's apartment, wearing his official Ministry robes and knocked on the door. Kristi answered the door looking beautiful as always. "My, don't you look very official."
"Ok, give me a break. I have to wear this stuff," Harry said greeting his friend.
"I'm not complaining you look good," Kristi added appraising him.
"Not compared to you I don't," Harry said and then added. "Are you ready to go, we're meeting at the Minister's office."
Harry took her hand and apparated them to the reception area of the Minister of Magic. "Hi Harry. Um... I mean Mr. Potter."
Harry smiled. "Harry is fine Jill. Jill, this is Kristi Belig. She'll be accompanying me today."
Kristi and Jill greeted each other and then Jill said, "The Minister is expecting you, go on in."
The two entered the Minister's office. "Harry! We were expecting you. Ah, Miss Belig. I didn't know you would be joining Harry today. Good to see you."
"Nice to see you again Minister," Kristi said, holding out her hand.
"Until the others get here, Arthur will be just fine," Mr. Weasley said. "Harry, I can't tell you how please we are with how you've handled the giants. That Dentor has been nothing but trouble, but as soon as we said you would be escorting them, he seemed to be tolerable."
"Well sir, I did have an interesting visit with him when I was at their camp. Has Duram arrived?" Harry asked.
"Yes. We should go down to the entrance. They won't fit through our doors and should be here any minute," Mr. Weasley said.
Harry reached into his robe and handed Kristi two small packages. "Kristi. When you meet the female giants, say you've heard this is useful for getting their way with their men."
Kristi took the packages and looked confused but Harry just smiled and said, "Trust me."
Once downstairs, the group didn't need to wait long and four huge shapes emerged from an enormous carriage. The first two were Denton and a female giant, followed by Duram and his wife Belissa. Harry stepped forward first and brought Kristi with him.
"Denton. It is an honor to see you again. I have not had the pleasure of meeting your companion, but let me present mine. This is Kristi Belig. She is the chaser on..."
Denton cut him off. "Chaser on your Quidditch team. Yes, I am a fan. Let me present my companion Senial."
Harry and Kristi bowed. Kristi stepped forward and said, "A small present from Harry and myself. I've heard it is useful for getting your way with your men."
Senial looked confused but when she opened the package, her attitude changed to amazement. She smiled broadly and said, "Thank you. It is a pleasure to meet you."
Harry introduced Denton and Senial to the Minister of Magic and then turned to Duram. There were no formalities between the two of them. "Harry! It is good to see you so soon. And, you brought a fellow player. Miss Belig. I have not had the opportunity to see you play but have read many things about you. You are a very talented player. This is my wife Belissa. Please don't be upset if she acts like Harry's mother. She is quite fond of him," the Giant said with a loud chuckle.
"I can understand her attitude," Kristi said with a wink to Harry and presented the package to Belissa.
Belissa opened it and smiled. "Was this your idea or Harry's?"
Kristi answered honestly, "I am not used to Giants, so it was Harry's."
Belissa smiled. "I'm glad to see you took his advice. Thank you."
Harry presented Duram and Belissa to the Minister and then turned to Kristi. "You did great."
"They're so big!" Kristi said to him.
"Um... That's why they're called Giants," Harry joked before Kristi hit him.
After the formalities, the odd group went to an exhibition match of the Chudley Cannons and Puddlemere United. Harry had gotten extra passes and was glad to see Ron and Parvati sitting a few rows behind them. Harry sat between Duram and Belissa and Kristi sat between Belissa and Denton. Kristi was answering all kinds of Quidditch questions from Denton. Belissa asked Harry about Cho. Harry looked at her and answered honestly, "Something happened that made it hard for me to continue with the way things were."
Belissa asked, "So what about this one? She seems to make you happy."
Harry ended up telling Belissa much more than he intended to about Kristi. The male giants loved the Quidditch match, but Harry could tell the female giants didn't really care. After the match, the group split up to get ready for the ball. Harry went back to Kristi's apartment with her to get her outfit and then they went back to Harry's to change. Harry showered and put on his dress Ministry robes and then waited for Kristi to come out of one of the spare rooms. He was surprised at how quickly she got ready and even more amazed at how beautiful she looked. "You look amazing," Harry said to her.
"Thanks, I wouldn't want to embarrass you in front of giants," Kristi said with a smile.
"Impossible." Harry replied. He took her hand and apparated them to the large room the Ministry had reserved for the meal and ball.
When the couple walked in, a lady handed each of them a wristband and said, "If you end up dancing with a giant, put your wand on the wristband and say 'Levitha'. You will hover about ten feet off the ground. This should make it more convenient. Oh, and to get down, just say 'finite encantantem'."
Harry thought the meal and ball where great. Kristi seemed to enjoy talking and even dancing with the Giants. Harry felt weird dancing ten feet off the ground at first but tried to do his best. Dancing with Kristi that evening was something he especially liked. She looked beautiful and seemed very happy to be there. During one of the dances late in the evening Kristin whispered to Harry, "Belissa said she liked me. She said that she thought I was the first witch she's met that could handle you."
Harry smiled and said, "So, you think you can handle me, huh?"
Kristi pulled him close and said, "Definitely."