a/n: Hey guys! 23 reviews! Yea! You guys are really incredible. Hopefully, the H/Hr stuff will come out in this chapter. I know its kind of moving fast, but it's either that or put in a bunch of pointless events and details. And I really hate pointless events and details... Oh yes, and this chapter is going to have a lot of dialogue (again). Disclaimer: I own nothing, as usual. Everything belongs to JK Rowling (which is probably a good thing). Enjoy peeps! And r/r! Oh yes, and 100 house points to Hestia (or any one else) who can find the hidden Stop the World – I want to get off! reference in the chapter.
*May 3, 2002 – 12:45 AM – Hogwarts – Potions Dungeons
Hermione ladled the yellowish-green impediment potion into a goblet. Holding it surprisingly steady (as her hands seemed to be trembling furiously) she turned to Harry. The corners of her lips lifted in a Mona Lisa-esque smile as she held the tarnished silver goblet out to him. "Are you ready Harry?" she asked, "You ought to drink it soon, before it gets too cool."
Harry reached out and took the goblet, allowing his fingers to grace hers. "All set." He downed it quickly and grimaced (in slow motion) at its taste. Realizing that the potion had been a success, the corners of Harry's mouth lifted slowly in a boyish grin. He began to circle the room slowly, taking childish delight in the sluggish movements of his limbs. After a few minutes the potion wore off (Hermione had weakened the ingredients by aging them a bit). Harry walked back to where Hermione stood with her hands clasped happily under her chin. Quickly bottling the remainder of the potion, Hermione cleaned up her cauldron and things and followed Harry up the stone stairway to the Great Hall. Talking furiously about the project, the two newly found friends walked slowly to the Gryffindor common room. Beyond the Fat Lady the parted with Harry's benediction, "Don't forget Mione. Tomorrow we launch Operation: Confound Remus Lupin for our own Selfish Amusement." Hermione giggled and hurried up to her dormitory. Harry stood alone in the middle of the dim room, watching her go. His eyes were dancing with furious emotion. Finally, he turned away and began to trudge back to his own room.
*May 4, 2002 – 8:00 AM – Hogwarts – Great Hall
Hermione sat in her usual isolated seat at the Gryffindor table, dreamily pushing her eggs around the gold-plated plate. Being close to Harry again felt wonderful. She had caught his eye as he had walking into breakfast that morning surrounded by the usual ring of stalkers and suck-ups. He had winked at her discreetly and was now proceeding to ignore her (as he usually did). Lupin won't know what hit him. Hermione thought, chuckling under her breath, It's a good thing I can act. It's infuriating to pretend I still hate Harry. Especially after last night... Hermione snapped her attentions back to the real world. She realized the playing chase-the-egg had gotten old and pushed her plate away to the empty seat across from her. Bending down, she rummaged around in her bag and removed her diary.
*Hermione's diary
Dear Diary,
God, this feels strange. Knowing that Harry DOESN'T hate me and that there IS really a human being under the prat exterior is a relatively new experience. I must admit, last night WAS rather refreshing. You know, diary, that there is nothing that I like more than being able to discuss my work with actual people. No offence to you, old pal. But it's not like you can talk back to me or anything.
Professor Lupin looks satisfactorily clueless. I'm sure he knew that Harry had gone to the dungeons last night to work with me. But it WILL be fun to see him sweat when we don't seem to be getting any closer. Oh yes, Harry and I agreed last night to have a falling out in class today. Over some petty thing, he said he'd provoke me and I'll I had to do was react. It's going to be a lot of fun.
The potion was, by the way, a success. I've started to reverse the ingredients in order to find its antidote. It shouldn't take me more than a day or so. Of course, the tricky thing is attempting to make the antidote into a spell. Oh well. I guess its back to the library for me!
Hermione
*May 4, 2002 – 10:30 AM – Hogwarts – Defense Against the Dark Arts
Harry came in to DADA followed by an entourage of Seamus and Dean. Satisfied that he was actually on time, he walked to the front of the room where he shared a partner desk with Hermione. She was already there, making a list of ingredients for the antidote. He poked her under the table and (once he had her attention) lifted the corner of his lips in a smirk, nodding at the oblivious Professor Lupin who was grading essays at his desk. Hermione grinned back at him mischievously and then returned to her parchment. Finally, Professor Lupin instructed the seventh years to take fifteen minutes to work on their project. Harry turned to her Hermione and winking rapidly said, "Well Granger, I see that you've been up all night working on homework again. What is it, are books your entire life? Do you have pet names for them?" Harry snatched her textbook off the table, "Is this one Georgie? Do you call your potions book Lambie – poo?" Harry smirked (in a remarkably similar style to that of Draco Malfoy) and waited for Hermione's reaction.
Hermione's eyes began to fill with fake tears. Thank you expensive acting lessons I hated when I was 8... Hermione thought as she began to speak, "For your information, Potter, I do not name my books. And I don't know what business of it is yours, but I was up late working on homework. At least I value my future, unlike some people I know."
"You think you're so great, Granger?" Harry spat, "Just cause you've got brains? Books, cleverness. There are more important things. Like... like... friendship a-and bravery."
Hermione nearly smiled, remembering the words as her own during their first year. Catching herself, she retorted, "What do you know about friendship Potter? You haven't had a real friend since Ron Weasley died three years ago. I think you've forgotten how to be a friend, much less a civilized human being!"
Harry frowned. That had stung. Of course, he thought, It's true. I haven't really had true friends since Ron died. But... Hermione IS a real friend. I know it. I can see it in those eyes of her that she doesn't mean what she's saying. Harry quickly began to speak again, noting that Professor Lupin was staring at them openly, "At least I don't live in my own little fantasy world. Just stuff it up Granger." Harry turned his chair away from hers and lounged arrogantly, looking around the room. Hermione bent over her list again, letting false tears fall. She was well pleased with herself. They had every student, not to mention Lupin, staring open-mouthed at them.
*May 7, 2002 – 8:30 PM – Hogwarts – Gryffindor common room
Five of the seven Gryffindor seventh years sat around the common room fireplace, looking glum. The younger students were at some event that was not mandatory for those in seventh year, so the common room was empty. Seamus sat beside Lavender on a red sofa, staring moodily around the room. Parvati was perched on Dean's (who was sitting in a big arm chair) lap. Neville was sitting on the hearth polishing his Head Boy badge half-heartedly. Finally, Lavender spoke up, "So... What do you think is UP with them?"
"With who?" asked Seamus, turning his focus to her.
"Harry and Hermione of course. They exploded at each other 3 whole days ago, and I don't think they've spoken since."
"Well, er, Lavender. Hermione doesn't talk to anybody. And besides, its not like they're best friends or something. They've disliked each other since... you know." Parvati reminded her, leaning her head on Dean's shoulder.
Dean reached up and stoked his girlfriend's hair gently, "That's true, hon, but this is such a... oh I don't know what to call it..."
"Hostile silence?" Neville supplied, looking up from his badge.
"Yeah," Dean said, "That's it."
"I think so too. Hermione and I had a meeting last night and I don't think I've seen her this broody in ages. Not that she isn't usually broody, mind you."
"Brilliant, but broody, wouldn't you say?" Seamus said.
"That's a good way to put it, Seamus," Parvati said.
"Yeah but I mean, really. I wouldn't call Hermione broody. It's not like she's denying the fact that Ron died and that she and Harry aren't friends anymore." Lavender said practically.
"What would you call it then Lavender?" Neville asked.
"I think broody fits the bill," Dean muttered, "I haven't seen her happy in ages."
"Brooding and unhappiness is not the same thing. I would certainly call Hermione unhappy though..." Lavender said, "And even reclusive. She hardly even talks to Parvati and me anymore; and we're her roommates! I mean, the last time I offered to do her hair for her she shrugged me off and went back to this book she was reading."
"I've given up on her. She's not going to change." Parvati said.
"And what about Harry?" Dean asked.
"What about Harry?" Parvati turned quizzically to her boyfriend.
"He hasn't tormented a Slytherin in weeks! He doesn't tease me about soccer! He's on time for class! He goes around with this dreamy look on his and he winks sporadically." Dean exclaimed.
"Maybe he's got an eye twitch," Neville said, chuckling.
"Or maybe," Lavender spoke up, "he's in love."
"Harry?" Seamus coughed, "In love? Come on Lavender, you've had some pretty crazy ideas before. But this is the craziest. Harry doesn't date girls, he plays with them. You know, his whole girlfriend-of-the-week, spiel?"
Parvati frowned, "Some spiel..."
"Big deal!" Lavender said, "People change, right?"
"Not Harry!" Dean said.
"Dean's right," Neville added, "Harry isn't going to stop being a prat. It's just who he is. Maybe someday he'll get a good thump on the head and start acting like a normal human being. But that's not going to happen soon, I assure you, considering that Quidditch season is over and there are no more stray bludgers flying about."
Seamus stood up, "Look, let's just drop this, okay? We aren't going to be able to do anything my standing here and arguing. Even if we agree on something. It's not like Harry or Hermione would change just because we told them to."
The five teenagers sighed their agreement and proceeded to have a long evening of staring morosely into the fire.
*May 7, 2002 – 8:30 PM – Hogwarts – Astronomy Tower
Meanwhile, Harry and Hermione sat together in the Astronomy Tower, flushed with excitement. They had successfully brewed an antidote to the Impediment potion. It was hard to feel anything but tired and happy. And Hermione flat out refused to even think about the next step of the project. Finally, after a few minutes of comfortable silence, Hermione turned to Harry and said, "Don't you think that our dear Professor Lupin has looked especially depressed over the last few days? And that our other wonderful professors have started to send him vindictive looks? Only Dumbledore seems amiable to the situation, and we haven't fought in one of his classes so that's understandable."
Harry laughed easily, "That's an understatement, Mione. I don't think I've seen Lupin sweat this much in years. Even that time last Christmas when Sirius began rating all of Lupin's ex-girlfriends."
"This is fun." Hermione said, leaning back on the stone wall.
"What is? Making Lupin miserable? Yeah, I would call that fun."
"That, and..." Hermione trailed off.
"And what, Mione?" Harry asked, looking at her.
"And.... being friends with you again. I mean... honestly Harry. I had forgotten how it felt to have a friend." Hermione sat up and met his gaze.
Harry smiled at her and said, "You know what, Mione?"
"What?"
"I had forgotten too."
Hermione smiled and then shivered. It was cold in the Astronomy Tower, and she had worn only lightweight spring robes.
"Cold?" Harry asked? Hermione nodded quickly. "Come here then," Harry wrapped an arm around her shoulders and pulled her toward his chest.
Hermione relaxed a bit, and leaned her head on Harry's chest. He felt so warm. And it was wonderfully comforting to have his arm around her. "Thanks, Harry." She murmured quietly.
"Not a problem, Mione."
"Do you think we ought to go back to the common room?" Hermione asked, hoping he'd say no.
"Not yet, it's such a beautiful night. Let's stay up here for now."
"All right," Hermione relaxed again against Harry's chest, closing her eyes. They sat for a few moments, listening to crickets playing their evening song.
"Hermione?" Harry spoke again, "Could I ask you a question?"
"What's up?" Hermione asked, opening her eyes quickly.
"First, just listen to me for a second, all right?" He waited for her nod, and then continued; "I've been feeling so strange for the last week or so. A good kind of strange, you understand, but strange. Being with you again feels wonderful, but sometimes I feel like it's not enough. That somehow, we should have something more. Hermione, I haven't been trying to, but... I think I've fallen in love with you. So do you think that... maybe you would consider being my girlfriend?" Harry felt slightly awkward for the first time in years.
"Harry?" Hermione said, "Yes. Because I think that I've felt the same way. But you have to promise me something."
"Anything!" He said happily, meaning it.
"You have to promise to not treat me like all of those other girls you've dated. You know, throwing them away like a used dish rag."
"I wouldn't even think of it, Mione!"
Hogwarts newest couple spent the rest of the evening lingering in the Astronomy Tower. Talking about anything that came into their minds. Finally, they began to walk down to the common room. Hermione turned to give the portrait the password, but Harry stopped her. Gently, he snaked his arms around her waist and kissed her lips gently. Hermione kissed him back, hesitantly at first. Finally, they pulled away from each other. They had all ready agreed to keep having random fights everywhere. And that their relationship would have to be a secret for a while yet. Harry winked at Hermione and strode into the common room using his own arrogant gate. Hermione followed, assuming a face of rage.
*Hermione's diary
Dear Diary,
Heaven, I'm in heaven. Harry and I were in the Astronomy Tower today, talking about the success of the antidote, etc. I hardly remember what led to what and which thing came first but before I knew it, Harry was saying that he was in love with me and asking me to be his girlfriend. Well of course I said yes. He even kissed me goodnight outside of the portrait hole, before we had another "fight" in front of Seamus, Dean, Lavender, Parvati, and Neville.
Of course I've been thinking about Ron a great deal ever since I got back here tonight. I was in love with him; I'll never doubt that. I'm not going to do what so many girls in novels do when they fall in love for the second time: say that it was really just a crush and that Harry is my first true love. I have to accept the fact that Ron is dead, and no matter how much I may love him, he's never going to come back. I think he would have wanted me to move on with my life. And I really do love Harry.
We have agreed, for the time being, to keep our relationship a secret. After all, "Vengeance shall be mine, saith the Lord,". And confusing Professor Lupin is such good fun. I really is a treat to see him sweat. And hasn't he been attracting glares from the other professors...
Going to turn in now. I doubt I'll be able to sleep though!
Hermione
*
a/n: Awww, that was a sweet chapter! I want to add that Prowess is my new beta. And that I'm really sorry that I didn't send this chapter to you before I posted, but I wasn't sure whether you'd be around and I'm in a hurry to post this since I'm outta here again on Friday. Sorry!
Here's a thanks section for my wonderful 23 reviews!
Hestia: Yeah, I know you love me. It's your job. Find the Stop the World reference and you get a cookie! (what the hell... you saw paul in a mini van???)
Slytherin Angel: Aww, shucks. No, you're not a freak. Harry being pratty is definitely cool...
Sparkle Tangerine: (2) Good call. Yup, Mione and Harry are deep in it. *sigh* I love making them act like love-sick monkeys... (1) I couldn't agree more...
osidhf: Will do. Nice name by the way...
Mor: (2)Thank you very much. (1) Yeah, Harry kind of is a jerk isn't he...
internalscream: Thanks! I hope you enjoy the rest of the story as well (although I'm sorry to say it's only going to get fluffier from here...)
Amanda: And more you shall have! (at least two more chapters... I hope...) I'm sorry you cried (or glad, as the case may be) But the rest of the story is much happier!
Mauve Lipgloss: (2)I love Harry/Hermione too. If Hermione dates Ron in the books, Rowling's going to here from me... Anyway, enjoy! (1) Aw, my first reviewer. Thanks very much!
Erriy: Thank you very much, I will.
g: Yeah, I know. I just kind of got tired of writing him as a prat. I find it easier to write nice characters...
WaNdA: Yeah, but they're friends now. And killing off Ron was somewhat satisfactory...
Icy: Thanks! Hope you enjoy this chapter too.
Riana: Well, thank you. (I think...) I certainly don't want your fist for lunch... lol. Hope you're enjoying the story.
Jusme: Noted!
Shannon: Complying...
Prowess: Thank you so much, again, and I am sooo sorry I didn't send this to you for beta-ing, but I really wanted to get it up. The next chapter will be up soon, and I'll definitely send it to you first.
Ori: Awww shucks! Thank you so much.
blueverry88: Will do!
