Disclaimer: I don't own BTVS or Harry Potter
Author's Note: remember, a little AU...
Chapter 8: Compartment Drama
"Okay Spike, we're all here, so explain." At Buffy's insistent command, Spike sighed and looked around. Xander and Anya had arrived a few minutes prior and they sat in front of him along with Buffy and Dawn.
"There is a certain magic in this world as you all know." They all nodded thinking back to the previous year's events. "Okay, well there is a wizarding world completely different from this one. Wizards and Witches live together in hidden cities. They fight their own kinds of evil mostly cut of from the muggle world." Sensing questions ready to pop out of the mouths of the group, he held his hand and continued. "A muggle is a person who doesn't have magic in their blood. Anyway, I grew up in the wizarding world. I know some of you have looked into my past, but it isn't the truth. My parents were muggles, but I was sent to a school for witchcraft and wizardry called Hogwarts. I know, weird name, but it is the best school in the entire wizarding world. So I went there for the full seven years and the year I graduated, you could say that I had a bit of a falling out with my family. So, I left and went to live in the muggle world. Before I knew it, I had been sired. I never looked back to the wizarding world, figuring that this one was much better." Spike sat back letting his vague, but long explanation sink into the group.
The first person to speak was Buffy who's expression remained blank. "So you're saying you're a wizard?" Spike chuckled and shook his head.
"No pet. I was a wizard. I haven't picked up a wand in over a century. I couldn't even begin to remember all of the spells, curses, hexes, and other wizarding things that exist. However, I do remember being one of the best prefects that school ever had." The group ignored his smug smile as they continued to think of this strange world they had just been introduced to.
"Okay Spike, you're going to have to go into a bit more detail, here! Hidden cities? Owls? Wands?" Dawn's eyes were as wide as saucers showing her mix of fear and excitement.
Spike smiled kindly at Dawn and nodded. "Alright pet, I'll go into further detail, later."
"Come on Spike. You can't just leave us hanging." Spike rolled his eyes at Xander and shook his head.
"Right now, I have to think about this letter I recently received from Professor Dumbledore." Xander and Anya looked at each other confused.
"What letter?" Xander and Anya echoed confused. Spike pulled out the piece of parchment and handed it to Anya. She glanced over it and handed it to Xander. He read over it and looked back up with a curious gaze.
"Alright, so he wants you to be a professor at this Hogwarts place?" Dawn questioned. Spike nodded and they all didn't really know what to say.
"Are you going to do it?" Spike looked into Buffy's questioning eyes and he closed his own.
"I don't know pet. I want to do it. I love Hogwarts. It is a fabulous place and the Defense against the Dark Arts class was my favorite when I took it." Spike smiled at the memories and Dawn couldn't help but smile with him.
"Well, I think you should do it Spike." Spike smiled at Dawn in thanks and he looked over at the others. Xander and Anya shrugged and he turned to Buffy. She smiled and nodded.
"Well then," he said standing up. "I guess I had better pack for London."
****
Soft rays of yellow filtered through the light gray clouds of the sky. The wind ruffled the curtains through the window.
Hands shook the lump in the bed and a muffled groan responded.
"Wakey! Wakey!" Once again, another groan was heard from beneath the covers. Hermione rolled her eyes and reached up and pulled the blanket off. Twitching in surprise from the sudden bareness, Willow opened her eyes and let out a noise that sounded a bit like, 'go away'. Hermione laughed and grabbed Willow's arm.
"Come on Willow! You have to get up! You're going to Hogwarts today!" Willow's eyes shot opened and she shot up.
"Oh goodness! What time is it? Is everyone waiting on me?" Hermione rolled her eyes and Willow shut up with glare towards the young witch.
"It's nearly 5:45 and no one is waiting on you." Willow's eyes widened and she pushed the girl away.
"Are you crazy Herm'? It's only 5:45? Go away and let me sleep!" Willow fell back down and grabbed her covers from Hermione. Hermione sighed and reached down. She pulled Willow back up.
"Will, you have to get dressed! We have to leave here at 6:15 to get to Hogwarts in time for your teacher's meeting."
"Ugh, okay Hermione. I don't see how you can get up so easily," said Willow as she slowly stood up. Hermione smirked and shrugged her shoulders.
"It's a talent. I'll meet you downstairs in thirty minutes. I'm going to get Harry and Ron up. I can't wait to see Hogwarts! We've never been there before school starts. I'm so excited! Oh! I can ask the professors about our assignments!" Willow laughed as she pushed the excited girl out of the door. Hermione skipped down the hall and opened Ron's door. Willow laughed and felt pity for the two boys.
Sighing, Willow rubbed her sleep filled eyes and closed her bedroom door. As she skimmed through her trunks, her mind was centered on the topic of Hogwarts. Today she would be meeting one of the most powerful wizards in the world. She would be meeting other professionals who knew way more than her. They would definitely see all of her faults. Willow cringed at the sudden thoughts entering her mind. 'What am I doing? They'll see right through me! God, with all my luck their probably all forty years older than me.'
Willow slammed her trunk down and slumped down on her bed. 'Come on Willow. This is school. Yeah, it's a wizarding school, but you can do this! You're good at school. You're a good teacher. You can do this.' With a slightly confident nod, Willow sat up. Just as she was about to step outside, her door slammed open and two bodies ran into the room.
Slamming the door behind them, Ron and Harry leaned against the door panting. They looked over at a giggling Willow and glared.
"Oh come off it Willow. You know you didn't want to wake up either." Willow nodded and giggled again.
"Yeah, but now I'm glad I was up to see your faces!"
"Haha" Harry mocked as he walked over to her bed and lay down. Ron sat on the end of the bed and ran his hand through his ruffled red hair. He and Harry looked up with scared faces as a hand started beating on the door.
"Ron! Harry! I know you're in there. Just because you're in Willow's room doesn't mean you can sleep in there! Come on Willow! Open up!" Willow smirked as the boys shook their heads with pleading eyes.
"Hermione! They aren't in here." Willow tried to smuggle her laughs as she heard Hermione's huff on the other side of the door.
"Right you three! Like I'm going to believe that! Wills! I thought you were on my side." Willow laughed and Ron's eyes twinkled.
"Right. I guess redheads have a certain obligation to each other."
****
"Come on you two! Stop wasting time!" Harry and Ron gave frustrated sighs at the two girls in front of them. Once they had finally gotten dressed and out of the burrow, Willow had brightened up. Now, she and Hermione were quickly walking beside each other in excitement.
"Great, now we have two?" Harry laughed in agreement with Ron as they picked up their pace to catch up. The four were heading through King's Cross with Molly Weasley directly ahead of them all. They halted once they reached the intersection between platforms 9 and 10.
Molly stopped and smiled at the four. Reaching over, she hugged Ron, then Hermione, Harry, and lastly Willow. "Alright your four. Hagrid will be there when you get to Hogwarts. I'll meet you four back here later tonight. Have a good day!" With one last wave, Molly left them.
Willow turned to the wall and looked back at her friends. "Um...help?" They all laughed and Hermione stepped forward. She smiled at Willow before taking a five-step run and she jumped through the wall. Willow gasped and Harry and Ron smirked.
"See? Amazingly easy isn't it?" Willow narrowed her eyes at Ron who just laughed and followed Hermione. Harry stepped forward with his eyes twinkling.
"You better take a running head start. It is easier that way." Willow nodded and pulled her bag tightly to her chest. She closed her eyes and counted to five. One five, she started running and with a squeak she ran through the wall. Harry shook his head while laughing and followed suit.
Once on the other side, Harry shuffled the amazed Willow into the train as Ron gathered the giddy Hermione. They picked one of the many empty compartments to sit in. Through out most of the ride, Willow was kept entertained as the trio retold accounts of their previous years at Hogwarts. Silence filled the room though as they ran out of things to talk about. Hermione had pulled out one of her books and Ron rolled his eyes. Sensing this, Hermione looked up and glared. Willow and Harry laughed and stood up.
"Where are you two going?" Hermione questioned curiously setting her book down.
"Well, if you two are going to fight, we don't want to be here for it." Harry stated and his two best friends glared at each other.
"Right then." Willow walked towards the door but Ron held his hand up.
"No! We'll behave." Willow shook her head.
"No you won't." She smirked. "Besides, I want to explore the train. So, let's go Harry. You two stay here like good kids." Hermione just opened her book back up while Ron stared at her.
"You could at least talk to me. I bet you spend more time with those bloody books than talking with your friends." If Hermione cared, she didn't shot it. She just continued to read. However, Ron did notice that her hands had gone white as she clutched her book even tighter.
Ron shuffled his feet. He didn't know exactly what to say to her. Seeing her reading her book so intently made him feel so small.
"Come on Hermione. Talk to me. This is getting dull." He was annoyed now. Why couldn't she just stop thinking about school and think about him? 'Wait...what?' Ron was brought out of his surprised thoughts as Hermione loudly sighed and looked up at him in annoyance.
"Ron, I'm trying to read. Be quiet." Ron's eyes narrowed and he leaned forward.
"Well, you can stop reading that stupid book and talk to your best friend! I swear you are so bloody infuriating. All you care about is your bloody work!" Hermione slammed her book and glared back at him.
"Ron! Shut up! I don't just care about my work and you know it."
"You know damn well Hermione that your bloody school work is your life. That's why you haven't dated in so long. You work and work and you don't have a life! You don't have a life! I swear, if Harry's life or my life, was in danger it would take you a minute to decide what is more important!" Ron's eyes widened. Hermione's eyes widened. She brought a hand up and slapped him. The sharp pain stung his face and he grabbed his cheek in shock. He stared at Hermione who by now was in the corner of the compartment looking out the window.
"'Moine, I'm sorry. I...don't know what to say." Hermione slowly turned her head and shook her head as a tear fell down her cheek.
"You don't have to say anything." She whispered before rubbing her cheek trying to wipe the oncoming tears away.
Pain. Pain constricted through his chest. Ron for the first time, felt as if his heart had stopped beating. He slowly walked over and sat next to Hermione. She shivered and slumped back away from him.
"'Moine, please, look at me." Hermione didn't turn to look at him. He brought his hand up and brought it up under her chin and twisted her chin around. The pain and sadness that he saw in her eyes made his heart clench. With a shudder he wiped his eyes.
"I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry for what I said. I know I said them and I can't take them back, but I'm sorry." She shook her head with a bitter smile.
"No Ron. You can't take them back. But I forgive you." Feeling slight relief flushed through him, but he didn't feel it. She might have forgiven him, but she was still in pain.
"'Moine, please tell me what you're thinking."
"Those things that you said, they're true." Ron profusely shook his head.
"No Hermi-" She brought her fingers up to his lips.
"Yes they are Ron. You know it and I know it. School work is my life and I know that I would think twice about my work and saving your...lives." Her voice choked up as she said the last part. Ron grabbed her by the shoulders.
"No 'Moine. You're wrong. I know for a fact that you wouldn't think twice. You do have a life. That is Harry, Ginny, me, and all of our friends and family. Schoolwork isn't your life. 'Moine, I don't know how I can let you feel how sorry I am. Actually, you can't know. I'm sorry. What I said, I didn't mean." Another tear and choked sob escaped.
"Then why did you say them?"
"Because I was jealous." There, he admitted it. Hermione sat up with puzzlement in her eyes.
"What?" He cracked a small smile and nodded.
"I was jealous of your school work. You're always focused on it, giving it your full attention. I guess, I was just jealous because I wanted your full attention." By then, Ron's cheeks a deep red and the tips of his ears were slightly tinged. Hermione's face lit up in a mixture of things he couldn't read. Her eyes were twinkling in amusement while her smile showed bright happiness.
"Ron, from now on I promise to devote more attention to you." He laughed and she giggled. Hermione reached up and hugged him.
"Thanks Ron." He smiled down into her hair enjoying the sudden happiness he felt.
"You're welcome, 'Moine."
****
"Think they've killed each other yet?" Harry laughed and shook his head.
"Who knows? One minute they are perfectly content around each other while ignoring their feelings and the next their at each other's throats." Willow laughed and nodded.
"Yes, they are quite the pair." Harry smiled at the elder girl studying her. Over that past few weeks, she had become one of his best friends. She held the qualities of himself, Ron, and Hermione. She was smart like Hermione, had the red hair and the temper like Ron, and she had the brave and courage that he had. Of course, he wasn't being conceited or anything. He was only saying what others had sad about him in the past. Willow was quickly growing to be like a sister. He, like Ron, would without doubt give up his life to protect her. He only wish he knew of her past. He knew she had a rough past, he just wished that she would open up. He had so many questions for her. Who was this Giles character? Was she a powerful witch? Why doesn't she know much about the wizarding life? Oh, how he wished he had answers for these questions. He could tell that at times Willow had come so close to telling him and the others, but she hadn't.
"Harry? You okay?" The sudden silence had brought Willow's aware eyes to him. He seemed so lost in thought as he stared at her and she wished she knew what he was thinking. He jumped when she spoke and she smiled softly at him. To her, he was her brother. A brother she would die for.
"I'm fine Willow. Just thinking."
"Oooh, what a sin." He laughed and she playfully hit him. They continued to walk throughout the train. In less than a week and a half, students would fill these compartments. Willow shuddered at the thought. Being a teacher for all of these kids really hadn't sunk in yet.
"Thank you for bringing us with you Willow." She smiled and nodded.
"No problem. Besides, I need you guys! I have no idea what I'm doing or where I am going. I wish Giles was here."
"Don't worry Wills. We're just glad you brought us with you. It would be really lonely without you."
"What about the twins or Ginny?" Harry shrugged.
"I love hanging around them, but you're like my new best friend. I love hanging around you." Willow smiled and grabbed the boy into a hug.
"Thank you Harry." Pulling apart they looked at each other and smiled.
"Are you nervous?" She laughed and nodded.
"Hell yeah, I am."
"Don't worry. You'll do fine. Besides, the three of us will be in your class. We'll help you out. Hermione will be prefect so she can help you guys out and everything." Willow nodded, but frowned.
"Hermione told me she wasn't going to be a prefect this year." Harry's eyes widened in shock.
"What?" 'Why isn't Hermione a prefect? She was sure to get it! This is horrible. Why hasn't she said anything? Ron will be furious.'
"Now Harry, I'm not supposed to tell you, but she said that she might not be a prefect."
"Why not?" Willow sadly smiled.
"I can' tell you. That is something for Hermione, herself to tell you." Harry nodded.
"Harry, don't be too forceful about it though. I think Hermione has been having some tough times."
"How come I haven't even noticed this? I know she's been stressing and upset much more, but I just thought it was because of Ron." Worry was seeping through his veins about his best friend.
"Just talk to Hermione, Harry." He nodded.
"Come on, let's head back. I hope she they haven't killed each other, yet." The redhead giggled and turned around. She reached over and tickled Harry before running off.
"Oh, watch it Rosenburg!" With a laugh he chased after his friend laughing.
Harry almost ran into Willow as she stared into their compartment.
"What the-" Willow cut him off and pointed into the compartment. Harry's eyes widened and his features softened.
Inside their compartment, Ron sat with his arms wrapped around Hermione. Her head rested on his chest and she was sound asleep. Ron's eyes were half closed and he was quickly on his way to being asleep. A soft smile played on Ron's lips as Hermione twitched in her sleep.
Willow back up and she pulled Harry into the compartment across from theirs. Once inside with the door safely closed she turned to Harry with a bright smile on her face.
"That was too sweet." Harry smiled at Willow and nodded.
"Whoever says they don't like each other can go eat dirt." They both laughed and proceeded to discuss their friends' relationship while playing a game of 'war', which Willow taught an amused Harry.
****
Hermione and Ron jumped as the train whistle blew. They looked up at each other and quickly stood up nearly hitting each other in the heads. 'Sorry.' Ron mumbled blushing. Hermione nodded and made quick haste to the exit with Ron right behind her. They met Willow and Harry in the hallway that were both sporting twin Cheshire grins. Ron and Hermione glared at them before practically running off of the train. Harry and Willow laughed as they grabbed Willow's bag and walked off.
As Willow stepped off she looked around her in amazement. Mountains adorned the landscape and on the far hill stood the largest castle she had the pleasure of seeing. "Oh dear." A deep laugh behind her made her turn. She smiled up at the giant man who reminded her of a giant teddy bear.
"A lot o' folks say that." He smiled down at her and turned to the trio who ran up to him.
"Hagrid!" They all called. Willow smiled as he engulfed them in a hug.
"Hullo Harry, Ron, 'ermione! It's good ta see ya here. You must be Professor Rosenburg. Nice ta meet ya." She giggled and took his hand.
"Hello Hagrid. I've heard many great things about you from these three." He blushed and she found herself loving this man instantly.
"Well, ya kids didn' have ta do that." He grabbed Willow's bag from her. "Now come on, will ya? Professor Dumbledor' is expecting ya." They all nodded excitedly as he ushered them away from the train.
****
Did you like it? Yes, the start of Hogwarts is soon! Don't worry, Wills will get to experience Diagon Alley, too. That will prove interesting, huh? I am so thankful for all of the reviews I have gotten. I appreciate them more than you could believe! This chapter was definitly a Hermione/Ron chapter. I'm sorry, but they are one of my favorite couples in the HP world. Thanks to JK for writing those two characters so well! I hope you all liked this chapter.
Thanks to my beta, Laura! She's awesome!
Thanks to these wonderful reviewers:
Angela M - I'm glad you think this story was cute! I know a lot of people have been linking Willow with the Weasleys as far as their looks go, but I thought that I would actually let her be a part of the family!
X-Lander - hehe, I love your review! I thought it was cute to have Hermione admiring Giles. No has ever really had a school girl crush on him before. If Hermione is admiring, then you have to have a jealous Ron, eh? I'm excited about Spike and Willow both being teachers at Hogwars. However, I haven't decided yet if I want Buffy actually brought to the school. I don't want my story like other crossovers that I have seen. I'm sure I can work out a meeting with Snape and Buffy. That would be funny.
Chienne - hehe, if you're talking about Snape then I can't promise anything. I have a reason for Spike being a professor at Hogwarts. I'm glad you like the story!
LAURA - I'm glad you're enjoying the story! I hope you liked this chapter.
Spuffy the Witch - I'm glad this is still a great fic. lol I can't wait to here from you again!
Nicola - Thanks for your review! I'm glad you like this story!
Sammy - I'm trying to keep this story as original as I can. I still don't know who, if any, of the BTVS characters will head to Hogwarts. I'm sure of Spike going, though. I'll just have to see how I want things to play out. Thanks for reviewing!
Lady Blackfire - hehe, I updated! I hope you like this chapter! Yes, Willow not being able to get with Bill sucks because I love that couple! I'm glad you like this story!!
Ashley - Thanks for your review! I've been a Willow/Spike fan for as long as I can remember. I'm a new Harry Potter fan as well. I hope you liked this chapter.
Angus Hardie - thanks! I've been trying to keep the connection between both worlds as clean and correct as possible.
Once again! Thanks to all of my reviewers!! If I've forgotten some of you, then I am terribly sorry!! I love you all!
.
Author's Note: remember, a little AU...
Chapter 8: Compartment Drama
"Okay Spike, we're all here, so explain." At Buffy's insistent command, Spike sighed and looked around. Xander and Anya had arrived a few minutes prior and they sat in front of him along with Buffy and Dawn.
"There is a certain magic in this world as you all know." They all nodded thinking back to the previous year's events. "Okay, well there is a wizarding world completely different from this one. Wizards and Witches live together in hidden cities. They fight their own kinds of evil mostly cut of from the muggle world." Sensing questions ready to pop out of the mouths of the group, he held his hand and continued. "A muggle is a person who doesn't have magic in their blood. Anyway, I grew up in the wizarding world. I know some of you have looked into my past, but it isn't the truth. My parents were muggles, but I was sent to a school for witchcraft and wizardry called Hogwarts. I know, weird name, but it is the best school in the entire wizarding world. So I went there for the full seven years and the year I graduated, you could say that I had a bit of a falling out with my family. So, I left and went to live in the muggle world. Before I knew it, I had been sired. I never looked back to the wizarding world, figuring that this one was much better." Spike sat back letting his vague, but long explanation sink into the group.
The first person to speak was Buffy who's expression remained blank. "So you're saying you're a wizard?" Spike chuckled and shook his head.
"No pet. I was a wizard. I haven't picked up a wand in over a century. I couldn't even begin to remember all of the spells, curses, hexes, and other wizarding things that exist. However, I do remember being one of the best prefects that school ever had." The group ignored his smug smile as they continued to think of this strange world they had just been introduced to.
"Okay Spike, you're going to have to go into a bit more detail, here! Hidden cities? Owls? Wands?" Dawn's eyes were as wide as saucers showing her mix of fear and excitement.
Spike smiled kindly at Dawn and nodded. "Alright pet, I'll go into further detail, later."
"Come on Spike. You can't just leave us hanging." Spike rolled his eyes at Xander and shook his head.
"Right now, I have to think about this letter I recently received from Professor Dumbledore." Xander and Anya looked at each other confused.
"What letter?" Xander and Anya echoed confused. Spike pulled out the piece of parchment and handed it to Anya. She glanced over it and handed it to Xander. He read over it and looked back up with a curious gaze.
"Alright, so he wants you to be a professor at this Hogwarts place?" Dawn questioned. Spike nodded and they all didn't really know what to say.
"Are you going to do it?" Spike looked into Buffy's questioning eyes and he closed his own.
"I don't know pet. I want to do it. I love Hogwarts. It is a fabulous place and the Defense against the Dark Arts class was my favorite when I took it." Spike smiled at the memories and Dawn couldn't help but smile with him.
"Well, I think you should do it Spike." Spike smiled at Dawn in thanks and he looked over at the others. Xander and Anya shrugged and he turned to Buffy. She smiled and nodded.
"Well then," he said standing up. "I guess I had better pack for London."
****
Soft rays of yellow filtered through the light gray clouds of the sky. The wind ruffled the curtains through the window.
Hands shook the lump in the bed and a muffled groan responded.
"Wakey! Wakey!" Once again, another groan was heard from beneath the covers. Hermione rolled her eyes and reached up and pulled the blanket off. Twitching in surprise from the sudden bareness, Willow opened her eyes and let out a noise that sounded a bit like, 'go away'. Hermione laughed and grabbed Willow's arm.
"Come on Willow! You have to get up! You're going to Hogwarts today!" Willow's eyes shot opened and she shot up.
"Oh goodness! What time is it? Is everyone waiting on me?" Hermione rolled her eyes and Willow shut up with glare towards the young witch.
"It's nearly 5:45 and no one is waiting on you." Willow's eyes widened and she pushed the girl away.
"Are you crazy Herm'? It's only 5:45? Go away and let me sleep!" Willow fell back down and grabbed her covers from Hermione. Hermione sighed and reached down. She pulled Willow back up.
"Will, you have to get dressed! We have to leave here at 6:15 to get to Hogwarts in time for your teacher's meeting."
"Ugh, okay Hermione. I don't see how you can get up so easily," said Willow as she slowly stood up. Hermione smirked and shrugged her shoulders.
"It's a talent. I'll meet you downstairs in thirty minutes. I'm going to get Harry and Ron up. I can't wait to see Hogwarts! We've never been there before school starts. I'm so excited! Oh! I can ask the professors about our assignments!" Willow laughed as she pushed the excited girl out of the door. Hermione skipped down the hall and opened Ron's door. Willow laughed and felt pity for the two boys.
Sighing, Willow rubbed her sleep filled eyes and closed her bedroom door. As she skimmed through her trunks, her mind was centered on the topic of Hogwarts. Today she would be meeting one of the most powerful wizards in the world. She would be meeting other professionals who knew way more than her. They would definitely see all of her faults. Willow cringed at the sudden thoughts entering her mind. 'What am I doing? They'll see right through me! God, with all my luck their probably all forty years older than me.'
Willow slammed her trunk down and slumped down on her bed. 'Come on Willow. This is school. Yeah, it's a wizarding school, but you can do this! You're good at school. You're a good teacher. You can do this.' With a slightly confident nod, Willow sat up. Just as she was about to step outside, her door slammed open and two bodies ran into the room.
Slamming the door behind them, Ron and Harry leaned against the door panting. They looked over at a giggling Willow and glared.
"Oh come off it Willow. You know you didn't want to wake up either." Willow nodded and giggled again.
"Yeah, but now I'm glad I was up to see your faces!"
"Haha" Harry mocked as he walked over to her bed and lay down. Ron sat on the end of the bed and ran his hand through his ruffled red hair. He and Harry looked up with scared faces as a hand started beating on the door.
"Ron! Harry! I know you're in there. Just because you're in Willow's room doesn't mean you can sleep in there! Come on Willow! Open up!" Willow smirked as the boys shook their heads with pleading eyes.
"Hermione! They aren't in here." Willow tried to smuggle her laughs as she heard Hermione's huff on the other side of the door.
"Right you three! Like I'm going to believe that! Wills! I thought you were on my side." Willow laughed and Ron's eyes twinkled.
"Right. I guess redheads have a certain obligation to each other."
****
"Come on you two! Stop wasting time!" Harry and Ron gave frustrated sighs at the two girls in front of them. Once they had finally gotten dressed and out of the burrow, Willow had brightened up. Now, she and Hermione were quickly walking beside each other in excitement.
"Great, now we have two?" Harry laughed in agreement with Ron as they picked up their pace to catch up. The four were heading through King's Cross with Molly Weasley directly ahead of them all. They halted once they reached the intersection between platforms 9 and 10.
Molly stopped and smiled at the four. Reaching over, she hugged Ron, then Hermione, Harry, and lastly Willow. "Alright your four. Hagrid will be there when you get to Hogwarts. I'll meet you four back here later tonight. Have a good day!" With one last wave, Molly left them.
Willow turned to the wall and looked back at her friends. "Um...help?" They all laughed and Hermione stepped forward. She smiled at Willow before taking a five-step run and she jumped through the wall. Willow gasped and Harry and Ron smirked.
"See? Amazingly easy isn't it?" Willow narrowed her eyes at Ron who just laughed and followed Hermione. Harry stepped forward with his eyes twinkling.
"You better take a running head start. It is easier that way." Willow nodded and pulled her bag tightly to her chest. She closed her eyes and counted to five. One five, she started running and with a squeak she ran through the wall. Harry shook his head while laughing and followed suit.
Once on the other side, Harry shuffled the amazed Willow into the train as Ron gathered the giddy Hermione. They picked one of the many empty compartments to sit in. Through out most of the ride, Willow was kept entertained as the trio retold accounts of their previous years at Hogwarts. Silence filled the room though as they ran out of things to talk about. Hermione had pulled out one of her books and Ron rolled his eyes. Sensing this, Hermione looked up and glared. Willow and Harry laughed and stood up.
"Where are you two going?" Hermione questioned curiously setting her book down.
"Well, if you two are going to fight, we don't want to be here for it." Harry stated and his two best friends glared at each other.
"Right then." Willow walked towards the door but Ron held his hand up.
"No! We'll behave." Willow shook her head.
"No you won't." She smirked. "Besides, I want to explore the train. So, let's go Harry. You two stay here like good kids." Hermione just opened her book back up while Ron stared at her.
"You could at least talk to me. I bet you spend more time with those bloody books than talking with your friends." If Hermione cared, she didn't shot it. She just continued to read. However, Ron did notice that her hands had gone white as she clutched her book even tighter.
Ron shuffled his feet. He didn't know exactly what to say to her. Seeing her reading her book so intently made him feel so small.
"Come on Hermione. Talk to me. This is getting dull." He was annoyed now. Why couldn't she just stop thinking about school and think about him? 'Wait...what?' Ron was brought out of his surprised thoughts as Hermione loudly sighed and looked up at him in annoyance.
"Ron, I'm trying to read. Be quiet." Ron's eyes narrowed and he leaned forward.
"Well, you can stop reading that stupid book and talk to your best friend! I swear you are so bloody infuriating. All you care about is your bloody work!" Hermione slammed her book and glared back at him.
"Ron! Shut up! I don't just care about my work and you know it."
"You know damn well Hermione that your bloody school work is your life. That's why you haven't dated in so long. You work and work and you don't have a life! You don't have a life! I swear, if Harry's life or my life, was in danger it would take you a minute to decide what is more important!" Ron's eyes widened. Hermione's eyes widened. She brought a hand up and slapped him. The sharp pain stung his face and he grabbed his cheek in shock. He stared at Hermione who by now was in the corner of the compartment looking out the window.
"'Moine, I'm sorry. I...don't know what to say." Hermione slowly turned her head and shook her head as a tear fell down her cheek.
"You don't have to say anything." She whispered before rubbing her cheek trying to wipe the oncoming tears away.
Pain. Pain constricted through his chest. Ron for the first time, felt as if his heart had stopped beating. He slowly walked over and sat next to Hermione. She shivered and slumped back away from him.
"'Moine, please, look at me." Hermione didn't turn to look at him. He brought his hand up and brought it up under her chin and twisted her chin around. The pain and sadness that he saw in her eyes made his heart clench. With a shudder he wiped his eyes.
"I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry for what I said. I know I said them and I can't take them back, but I'm sorry." She shook her head with a bitter smile.
"No Ron. You can't take them back. But I forgive you." Feeling slight relief flushed through him, but he didn't feel it. She might have forgiven him, but she was still in pain.
"'Moine, please tell me what you're thinking."
"Those things that you said, they're true." Ron profusely shook his head.
"No Hermi-" She brought her fingers up to his lips.
"Yes they are Ron. You know it and I know it. School work is my life and I know that I would think twice about my work and saving your...lives." Her voice choked up as she said the last part. Ron grabbed her by the shoulders.
"No 'Moine. You're wrong. I know for a fact that you wouldn't think twice. You do have a life. That is Harry, Ginny, me, and all of our friends and family. Schoolwork isn't your life. 'Moine, I don't know how I can let you feel how sorry I am. Actually, you can't know. I'm sorry. What I said, I didn't mean." Another tear and choked sob escaped.
"Then why did you say them?"
"Because I was jealous." There, he admitted it. Hermione sat up with puzzlement in her eyes.
"What?" He cracked a small smile and nodded.
"I was jealous of your school work. You're always focused on it, giving it your full attention. I guess, I was just jealous because I wanted your full attention." By then, Ron's cheeks a deep red and the tips of his ears were slightly tinged. Hermione's face lit up in a mixture of things he couldn't read. Her eyes were twinkling in amusement while her smile showed bright happiness.
"Ron, from now on I promise to devote more attention to you." He laughed and she giggled. Hermione reached up and hugged him.
"Thanks Ron." He smiled down into her hair enjoying the sudden happiness he felt.
"You're welcome, 'Moine."
****
"Think they've killed each other yet?" Harry laughed and shook his head.
"Who knows? One minute they are perfectly content around each other while ignoring their feelings and the next their at each other's throats." Willow laughed and nodded.
"Yes, they are quite the pair." Harry smiled at the elder girl studying her. Over that past few weeks, she had become one of his best friends. She held the qualities of himself, Ron, and Hermione. She was smart like Hermione, had the red hair and the temper like Ron, and she had the brave and courage that he had. Of course, he wasn't being conceited or anything. He was only saying what others had sad about him in the past. Willow was quickly growing to be like a sister. He, like Ron, would without doubt give up his life to protect her. He only wish he knew of her past. He knew she had a rough past, he just wished that she would open up. He had so many questions for her. Who was this Giles character? Was she a powerful witch? Why doesn't she know much about the wizarding life? Oh, how he wished he had answers for these questions. He could tell that at times Willow had come so close to telling him and the others, but she hadn't.
"Harry? You okay?" The sudden silence had brought Willow's aware eyes to him. He seemed so lost in thought as he stared at her and she wished she knew what he was thinking. He jumped when she spoke and she smiled softly at him. To her, he was her brother. A brother she would die for.
"I'm fine Willow. Just thinking."
"Oooh, what a sin." He laughed and she playfully hit him. They continued to walk throughout the train. In less than a week and a half, students would fill these compartments. Willow shuddered at the thought. Being a teacher for all of these kids really hadn't sunk in yet.
"Thank you for bringing us with you Willow." She smiled and nodded.
"No problem. Besides, I need you guys! I have no idea what I'm doing or where I am going. I wish Giles was here."
"Don't worry Wills. We're just glad you brought us with you. It would be really lonely without you."
"What about the twins or Ginny?" Harry shrugged.
"I love hanging around them, but you're like my new best friend. I love hanging around you." Willow smiled and grabbed the boy into a hug.
"Thank you Harry." Pulling apart they looked at each other and smiled.
"Are you nervous?" She laughed and nodded.
"Hell yeah, I am."
"Don't worry. You'll do fine. Besides, the three of us will be in your class. We'll help you out. Hermione will be prefect so she can help you guys out and everything." Willow nodded, but frowned.
"Hermione told me she wasn't going to be a prefect this year." Harry's eyes widened in shock.
"What?" 'Why isn't Hermione a prefect? She was sure to get it! This is horrible. Why hasn't she said anything? Ron will be furious.'
"Now Harry, I'm not supposed to tell you, but she said that she might not be a prefect."
"Why not?" Willow sadly smiled.
"I can' tell you. That is something for Hermione, herself to tell you." Harry nodded.
"Harry, don't be too forceful about it though. I think Hermione has been having some tough times."
"How come I haven't even noticed this? I know she's been stressing and upset much more, but I just thought it was because of Ron." Worry was seeping through his veins about his best friend.
"Just talk to Hermione, Harry." He nodded.
"Come on, let's head back. I hope she they haven't killed each other, yet." The redhead giggled and turned around. She reached over and tickled Harry before running off.
"Oh, watch it Rosenburg!" With a laugh he chased after his friend laughing.
Harry almost ran into Willow as she stared into their compartment.
"What the-" Willow cut him off and pointed into the compartment. Harry's eyes widened and his features softened.
Inside their compartment, Ron sat with his arms wrapped around Hermione. Her head rested on his chest and she was sound asleep. Ron's eyes were half closed and he was quickly on his way to being asleep. A soft smile played on Ron's lips as Hermione twitched in her sleep.
Willow back up and she pulled Harry into the compartment across from theirs. Once inside with the door safely closed she turned to Harry with a bright smile on her face.
"That was too sweet." Harry smiled at Willow and nodded.
"Whoever says they don't like each other can go eat dirt." They both laughed and proceeded to discuss their friends' relationship while playing a game of 'war', which Willow taught an amused Harry.
****
Hermione and Ron jumped as the train whistle blew. They looked up at each other and quickly stood up nearly hitting each other in the heads. 'Sorry.' Ron mumbled blushing. Hermione nodded and made quick haste to the exit with Ron right behind her. They met Willow and Harry in the hallway that were both sporting twin Cheshire grins. Ron and Hermione glared at them before practically running off of the train. Harry and Willow laughed as they grabbed Willow's bag and walked off.
As Willow stepped off she looked around her in amazement. Mountains adorned the landscape and on the far hill stood the largest castle she had the pleasure of seeing. "Oh dear." A deep laugh behind her made her turn. She smiled up at the giant man who reminded her of a giant teddy bear.
"A lot o' folks say that." He smiled down at her and turned to the trio who ran up to him.
"Hagrid!" They all called. Willow smiled as he engulfed them in a hug.
"Hullo Harry, Ron, 'ermione! It's good ta see ya here. You must be Professor Rosenburg. Nice ta meet ya." She giggled and took his hand.
"Hello Hagrid. I've heard many great things about you from these three." He blushed and she found herself loving this man instantly.
"Well, ya kids didn' have ta do that." He grabbed Willow's bag from her. "Now come on, will ya? Professor Dumbledor' is expecting ya." They all nodded excitedly as he ushered them away from the train.
****
Did you like it? Yes, the start of Hogwarts is soon! Don't worry, Wills will get to experience Diagon Alley, too. That will prove interesting, huh? I am so thankful for all of the reviews I have gotten. I appreciate them more than you could believe! This chapter was definitly a Hermione/Ron chapter. I'm sorry, but they are one of my favorite couples in the HP world. Thanks to JK for writing those two characters so well! I hope you all liked this chapter.
Thanks to my beta, Laura! She's awesome!
Thanks to these wonderful reviewers:
Angela M - I'm glad you think this story was cute! I know a lot of people have been linking Willow with the Weasleys as far as their looks go, but I thought that I would actually let her be a part of the family!
X-Lander - hehe, I love your review! I thought it was cute to have Hermione admiring Giles. No has ever really had a school girl crush on him before. If Hermione is admiring, then you have to have a jealous Ron, eh? I'm excited about Spike and Willow both being teachers at Hogwars. However, I haven't decided yet if I want Buffy actually brought to the school. I don't want my story like other crossovers that I have seen. I'm sure I can work out a meeting with Snape and Buffy. That would be funny.
Chienne - hehe, if you're talking about Snape then I can't promise anything. I have a reason for Spike being a professor at Hogwarts. I'm glad you like the story!
LAURA - I'm glad you're enjoying the story! I hope you liked this chapter.
Spuffy the Witch - I'm glad this is still a great fic. lol I can't wait to here from you again!
Nicola - Thanks for your review! I'm glad you like this story!
Sammy - I'm trying to keep this story as original as I can. I still don't know who, if any, of the BTVS characters will head to Hogwarts. I'm sure of Spike going, though. I'll just have to see how I want things to play out. Thanks for reviewing!
Lady Blackfire - hehe, I updated! I hope you like this chapter! Yes, Willow not being able to get with Bill sucks because I love that couple! I'm glad you like this story!!
Ashley - Thanks for your review! I've been a Willow/Spike fan for as long as I can remember. I'm a new Harry Potter fan as well. I hope you liked this chapter.
Angus Hardie - thanks! I've been trying to keep the connection between both worlds as clean and correct as possible.
Once again! Thanks to all of my reviewers!! If I've forgotten some of you, then I am terribly sorry!! I love you all!
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