"Harry?" She whispered.
"Yeah?" He answered back quietly.
"You lonely over there?" She said smiling motioning to the empty bench he
was sitting on.
"A bit, why?" He said smiling back.
"Let me come over," She sat up and walked quietly to the other side of the
compartment and sat next to Harry. Harry changed position and soon had his
legs back on the floor.
"At least Ron doesn't snore," She said staring at Ron and sitting back.
"Yeah, well, you should hear him when his mouth is open," Harry replied
showing his teeth as he smiled. Hermione had never seen this smile and her
body went numb when he did. Friend Hermione, friend.
They talked awhile about the year ahead and the students that they would be
meeting again. They both grew tired and Hermione laid her head on the back
of the bench. Harry could not sleep, for he was too busy thinking about
other things on his mind. Hermione fell asleep and her head seemed to fall
from the back of the bench on to Harry's shoulder.
Harry sat there unable to move. Hermione's head had just dropped on to his shoulder. Should I move? He thought, Would it make her feel uncomfortable if she woke up and realized where she was? Is this making me feel uncomfortable? He decided to let it pass and sat back trying to fall asleep. He glanced at Ron who was still at the moment sleeping. Would Ron get jealous if he saw her like this? Oh who cares! And with that Harry closed his eyes and let his head rest comfortably on the side of the bench.
"Hermione? Come on, we're nearly there!" Harry said putting his hand on her arm. He tried to wake her as calmly as possible. She blinked her eyes and sat with her head up. "Hmm.. where are we?" "On a train," Harry said sarcastically sitting up straight as she took her head up away from his shoulder. "Oh I know that! Where's the school?" She answered stretching. "Way over there" Harry replied pointing out the window. He seemed to feel a bit cooler now that she was not close. "Harry?" She whispered. Harry took his eyes away from the window and looked back at her. "Yeah?" "Did I fall asleep on your shoulder like that?" "Well, your head sorta fell on my shoulder." "Oh I'm sorry," Hermione said smiling. Harry smiled, "Really it's alright." He stretched his arms and let out a deep breath. "Shall we wake him?" She asked staring at the sleeping Ron. "Probably. HEY RON!!!!!!" Harry shouted. "Harry!" Hermione said staring at him with a smile, "That was a bit sudden." Ron shook himself and blinked his eyes. "Huh?" He said yawning. "We've arrived," Harry said quietly, standing up as the train came to a sudden stop. Ron slowly got up and leaned on the bench. "Well, I never knew benches were so comfortable."
Hermione walked out of the compartment making sure Harry and Ron were close behind her. The whole Draco Malfoy event still sent a bit of a shiver up her spine. They made their way through compartment after compartment of kids getting their things together and making themselves ready. Luckly, they had all changed before arriving at the platform. It would have been bad if they arrived at Hogwarts in their normal clothes. They jumped off and Hermione made sure her hair was in place after the long sleep she had had on the train. I hope he didn't mind, he had a comfortable shoulder Ron suddenly glanced at her, "Hermione, are you a Prefect?" She looked puzzled, "No, I never got a letter or anything. I never really thought about it till now." I have to be a prefect, I got top marks! "Harry?" Ron asked turning to him. "No, I never received anything either." Harry replied looking as puzzled as Hermione had. "Well who must be the prefects?" Ron said curiously. "If it can't be Hermione I have no idea who it could be," Harry responded shaking his head in disbelief. Hermione went slightly pink and turned to Harry. Ron shrugged, "Well find out soon enough." Hermione got lost in her thoughts I must be a prefect, who else could be? Before them stood horseless carriages awaiting for them to board. Hermione stepped into the carriage slowly and sat down on the white cushioned seat. Harry sat next to her, and Ron sat across from her. They soon moved and the small carriage trotted off to Hogwarts.
Ron put his head in his hand and ran his fingers through his well groomed hair. A part of him wanted the school year to start yet there was still another part of him that wanted it to end. He looked out and saw Hagrid taking the first years across the sea. The lights on the boats reflected off the water and made it look like 1000 of candles were being lit. The water was calm, almost like a mirror. And there stood the dark large castle upon the rocks, with millions of windows with millions of lights streaming out. And there laid the forest. The forest of darkness that no one dared to go in. The forest full of wonder and dreams. Ron hated that forest, he dared to not go back. The trees did not sway the least, only stood making large shadows on the ground. Ron took a deep breath and thought of the year that was before him. Although the popularity part did intrigue him, there was that other part as I have spoken of before that thought of the evil that would be waiting for him. Some how or another, there was always an adventure. Whether he liked it or not, there would always be an adventure. That's part of the baggage of being a friend to Harry Potter. Ah well, we've lived to tell the tale this far Ron reassured himself, This is only another year for a new tale "Ron?" Hermione asked putting her hand on his shoulder. "Yeah?" Ron asked sitting back up. "Are you alright?" She had a bit of concern in her voice that Ron couldn't help but love. Ron smiled at the corner of his mouth, "Yeah, thanks for caring." He then turned to Harry, "Unlike some people.... Harry..." Harry seemed to have dozed off as well for he shook himself and looked at Ron confused. "What?" Ron snickered, "Oh nothing Harry, I was just showing Hermione the pink monkey outside our window." "What?" Harry asked getting more and more confused by the second. Hermione laughed and Ron smiled, "Nothing Harry, go back to your special planet." "Alright, shall you go back to your's.. what is you call it... oh that's right Uranus?" Harry said making Hermione laugh harder.
Hermione hated it when the two of them made fun of one another. Yet it seemed to have gotten funnier over the years. Ron couldn't think of a good come back line so all he did was laugh. At least he can laugh at himself The carriage stopped and soon they were taken inside into the large and mysterious castle. Each room seemed to hold something unknown. The pictures on the wall stared at the kids and some smiled, while others frowned. She followed the rest of the students and soon ended up in the beautifully decorated Great Hall. Candles floated in the air, lighting up the whole room, if it was possible. A few ghosts floated about talking to the them or ignoring them. And there was much chatter in the hall as every person seemed to be talking, and hundreds of different conversations were being held all at the same time. Hermione looked for Harry and Ron who were standing right next to her. Ron's hair looks great, his face has matured and he has a wonderful build She stared at Harry, Harry's hair is perfect, if it is possible for messy hair to be. And his glasses make his eyes look so much more deeper. And he, as well, has a nice build She took a sigh then paid attention to where she was being led to. They took their seats at the Gryffindor table and Hermione sat alone on the other side as Ron and Harry sat next to one another. "Oh Hermione, your all alone," Ron said making a sad face. Hermione smiled, "It's alright, I'm use to be being left out when I'm with you two." "Oh Hermione..." Ron groaned making a sadder face. Hermione snickered, "I'm joking, I couldn't wait to see you two again!" She looked across the room and saw the sneering cold faced Draco Malfoy joking with his friends Crabbe and Goyle. She felt disgusted every time she thought of him, let alone look at him. She looked around the room and took immediate notice to the amount of giggling girls pointing and gawking over her two best friends. Great....
Harry and Ron seemed to have taken no notice to the girls pointing at them, for at the moment they were in a heavy conversation about Quidditch and the new players and the soon to be known captain. Ron kept saying it was Harry and Harry just denied it. He did wonder about the new keeper. Harry looked up at the table and saw an empty seat. "Hey look, isn't that where Defense Against Dark Arts teacher is supposed to sit?" Hermione nodded, "Yes, no one seems to be sitting there. Do you think they're late?" Harry squinted, "I don't know." "Do you think we even have the class?" Ron asked still looking up. Ron and Harry turned to each other, "You don't think..." "No." "He may have." "Oh no he couldn't of." "Then why isn't there anyone there?" "I don't know, they must be late." "It's Snape, it has to be." "No don't say that!" "Stop!" Hermione said looking at them. "We'll find out in a few minutes, just hold on." Harry tried to get his mind back on Quidditch and not the "what if's." He couldn't wait to get back on that broom again. The feeling of flying into the air made him race with excitement. The field with it's green dewy grass, and the stands holding classmates and teachers. Even the morning training sessions sounded wonderful. Slowly the nervous first years entered the room. Some of them looked as if they had just seen Godzilla walk outside. Harry smiled at them all with the thought of his fist encounter with Hogwarts, and the famous Sorting Hat.
Ron looked up at the Sorting Hat sitting sadly on the stool. As soon as the crease turned into a mouth a few of the first years screamed. Ron loved it when that happened. Everyone in Gryffindor clapped and welcomed each first year that would be joining the magical year ahead, and many to come. Albus Dumbledore finally stood up and waited for the room to fall silent. It took awhile, but some how it happened. All eyes were on the man with the silver white beard. He smiled at them all. It was a smile of hope and comfort, and his eyes lit up at the sight of them all. "I welcome you all to Hogwarts. Whether you have been here before or have merely just begun, I ask you to keep away from the forest and to not use magic in the hallways. We have a few new arrangements sadly. There has been a delay with our Defense Against The Dark Arts class. You will not be starting it until further noticed, until then, you are free to use that time for studying, homework, or just relaxing." He took looked at them all, and some how was able to look at every single one them all at the same time. He continued, "I will also announce that no students were informed to be Prefects. There was also a delay to that. I will inform those who are at a later time. In the meanwhile I welcome you all and may you all eat with happiness!" At that the empty plates and bowls filled with food. It was the feast you only read in books, so many types of food all for hundreds of children, all of whom would be spending a year with one another. Ron turned to Harry, "He didn't mention anything about Quidditch now did he?" Harry shook his head, "Well, I'll find out." "It's great we don't have that class!" Ron said with excitment. Hermione turned her face towards Ron, "Don't you realize how far behind we'll all be? We won't be able to learn half the things we were supposed to!" "Come on Hermione! It gives you extra time to read or something." Ron said taking a spoonful of mashed potatoes. "Hey Hermione," Harry said grinning and nudging Ron. "Do you realize all the guys that staring at you right now?"
Hermione looked around the room. There were defiantly some boys staring at her, and whispering to one another. And there were many girls glaring at her, and scolding. Oh, great! She did like where this was going. Harry and Ron laughed. "Please, don't make it harder than it is!" Hermione said pleading. Ron stared at her, "Hermione get used to it, you're going to get pointed at, whispered about, scolded, your name will he heard in gossip and rumors, and most importantly your going to get asked out." Hermione raised an eyebrow, "How can I get 'asked out' when hardly any of the boys in this room know my name?" "Oh trust me, they know your name, from the moment you entered 9 3/4 they knew your name. You'd be surprised how quickly things can travel." Ron said looking satisfied with himself. He took a chicken leg and took large bite out of it, half of it was sticking out of his mouth. Hermione grew quiet and came very self conscience of all the faces glancing at her. It made her feel awkward. How she was able to get use, it she had no idea. The amount of girls glancing at Harry and Ron seemed to have grown, and more giggles could be heard in the background. Harry and Ron were still in a heavy conversation and eating, they didn't take notice to any of the pointed hands or giggling voices echoing through the room. Hermione continued to eat but kept getting bothered with the realization that the two of them had no idea what was going on. "Don't you two see all the girls that are giggling at you?" Hermione said fed up with them. Ron and Harry exchanged looks. Hermione saw Ron grin, and Harry look puzzled. Ron had to have already taken notice to it all. Harry on the other hand had not. Does Harry realize how cute he looks? By the looks of it, no Hermione soon realized Ron's c-ockiness, and Harry's humbleness.
"Hi Harry..." "How are you Harry?" "Harry? Hi my name is..." "Harry? Do you remember the time when you were walking down the hall? Well I was right behind you!" "Meet me in the library!" "We should talk some time!" Harry was being annoyed by so many girls it was unbearable. Ron on the other hand seemed to be flirting.... I mean talking... to everyone that had tried to get his attention. Hermione leaned forward, "You wanna leave now?" "That'd be great!" Harry said getting up. The two of them met up with each other at the end of the table. Girls waved at him as he passed. Hermione laughed at a few of the comments, and Harry laughed as he pointed out all the guys looking at her. They stopped to look at the hall and saw Ron talking to a Sixth Year Ravenclaw. He ran his fingers through his hair, and Harry laughed along with Hermione at the sight of Ron flirting. "They're really going for it," Harry said baffled. "I can't believe it!" Hermione replied looking a tad bit jealous. "Oh lets just go! We'll meet up with him in the common room." Harry and Hermione left the annoying scene and walked back to their common room. Their footsteps echoed and bounced off the walls making the noise seem louder than it really was. The candles and lanterns along the halls flickered and lit the hallway with warmth and comfort. Slowly they made their way up the marble steps and on to the common room. The reached the portrait of the fat lady and stopped. They glanced at each other. "Do you know the password?"
"See you around," and with one more run through with his fingers in his hair Ron got up from the goggling groups of girls. And stood up to search for Harry and Hermione. Although the Great Hall was flooded with kids chattering and shouting, he could not find either of them. He glanced up at the bewitched ceiling to see a clear starry night. The stars seemed to twinkle and the clouds drifted fogging up the few stars that shone through. He did feel like leaving, for he turned around and saw a group of 4th years coming up to him. He left the feast in search for his friends. They have to be up in the common room Ron ran over to the marble staircase and held on to the stone railing. He examined the walls and the paintings, and even smiled at a few of them. God, I hope I know where I'm going "Leaving the feast early Mr. Weasley?" A cold sneering voice was behind him. Ron quickly turned around, "Hello Professor." "What gives you the right to leave early?" Ron gave Snape a long stare, "Well, I don't see any Prefects around, do you?" As we all know, this probably wasn't a very intelligent thing to say to a Professor such as Severus Snape. Snape looked at Ron through two cold dark eyes, "You were never told to leave." "I was never told not to." "You should know better than to leave without permission." "And must I wait for permission to use the toilet?" Snape stopped, "You needed to use the bathroom?" "Well yeah, so excuse me, I need to use it rather badly, thank you." Ron smiled as Snape stared at him. Snape gave him one more cold stare and left with his robes flying behind him. Ron kept smiling and turned around when Snape was out of earshot, "Alright, off to find Harry and Hermione then." When he finally reached the portrait he could find no one. "So what's the password?" He mumbled.
Hermione glanced at Harry, "What do we do now?" "Wait, I suppose for the others to come." Harry answered gloomily. Hermione sighed and sat against the wall. "At least we're away from there."
Harry sat across from her and leaned his head back, "The school year hasn't even begun yet. I'm already annoyed." "Told you to get use to the sound of giggling teenage girls," Hermione said grinning. Harry put his head straight up again, "You aren't giggling at Ron or me, and you're a teenage girl." Hermione laughed, "That's because I know everything about you two! It kind of ruins it, even if you are cute." Harry grinned and looked down, as if he was embarrassed. "Besides, you aren't whispering with Ron about me, or 'checking' me out for that matter." Harry opened his mouth with a slight smile on the corners, "That's because we haven't got a chance to yet!" Hermione opened her mouth in astonishment and started laughing with Harry. "Are you serious?" She exclaimed. "Of course I am," Harry kept laughing. Should I feel weird about that? She thought still laughing at the thought of them talking about her. Hermione looked up and saw Professor McGonagall standing before them. "What are you two doing away from the Great Hall?" "I was getting a headache Professor," Harry said quickly. "We both were," Hermione added. Her stern face studied them closely. Hermione and Harry and stood up and were brushing themselves off. "Well, you're both prefects anyways, you mine as well know the password." Hermione took a breath of relief and turned to the portrait. "Unicorn hair" McGonagall said quickly. She turned to them once more, "Do not leave the Great Hall without Permission again." She left and the two of them glanced at each other with a look of relief. "That was close." Harry said climbing through the portrait hole.
Harry climbed through to find the common room exactly how it was left. The big puffy chairs making them want to sit. The fire gently making the room flicker with shadows, and the settle wooden darkness that made the room comfortable. Hermione and Harry glanced and ran up to their own separate dorms. Both wanting to find the same thing. Harry ran up the stairs and on into the boys dormitories. He searched for his bed and saw a cream coloured envelope sitting on the foot of a bed with "Harry Potter" written on the front. Harry ran to it and grabbed it as fast as he could. He opened it quickly and found the letter. Dear Mr. Harry Potter, Congratulations, you are now your house's Prefect. Do take serious note that you will be of assistance to any help that is needed and will escort those that need to be escorted. Please also note that any wrong doing in the Halls, Corridors, or your own dormitories must be reported. If you do not feel as though you wish to take such a responsibility please inform Professor McGonagall. You now also get privileges. There will at times be separate seating arrangements for Prefects, you will at times must report for meetings, and you also get the pleasure of your own bathroom. If you mistreat these privileges at any time you will be taken off Prefect duties. Your house Password will change once a week, and you will get notified of the new one. The password this week is "Unicorn Hair." More information to come.
Sincerely, McGonagall
Harry looked at his trunk and saw a large gold badge with the name "Prefect" on it. It shimmered in the light and seemed to glow in the dark. Harry quickly put it on and rushed back out to the common room to meet back up with Hermione. She had just run down as well and was smiling back up. Harry noticed the badge on her as well and he felt a wave of excitement.
Hermione looked up at Harry. She felt happy that she was Prefect, but it was wonderful that Harry would be joining her. He came down the stairs and smiled his famous smile. Hermione felt herself go speechless. Why does he have to smile like that?! "I'm a Prefect!" He exclaimed. Hermione smiled back and stroked the back of her hair, "This is great!"
Harry stared at Hermione hoping she would smile back. She did, and Harry felt proud of himself. He stretched his arms out and hugged her as though he was congratulating her. He's hugging me. This feels good, STOP! Hermione tried to let go but couldn't. She just stood there hugging Harry. He apparently couldn't stop either for he did not back away. Don't let go Harry backed away but did not let go. Hermione did the same. He stared at her, and she him. Stop! What are you doing? Hermione couldn't decide, she just stood there staring at him. But there was something stopping her from moving. Should I? Harry was wanted to lean in, but was afraid of what she might do. God just do it! Harry slowly leaned his head forward. Oh my god, he's leaning in, should I? Hermione felt every part of her body go numb, yet she felt herself getting closer to his face. Harry felt himself touch her lips and they kissed passionately.....
Hermione backed away. She wanted to lean in again, but Harry would not. They stared at each other, unable to speak. She had no voice, nor did he, they merely stood there staring. Hermione's arms were holding tightly around his back, and his hands could not move from her waist. Should I? she asked herself wishing for the feeling to return. Harry would not move, he couldn't. He felt Hermione leaning in once more, he tried to tilt is head, but still was unable to take in anything. She didn't care, she felt for his lips and pressed against them. She did not want to end, but soon she found her lips quench for his once more. Harry took a deep breath and tried to speak. He had never felt that way. He could only look at her. She took heavy breaths and made her face close to his. They both felt themselves flinch and could feel one another's breaths stream by. Harry moved in once more. They kissed passionately for awhile. There was a sudden creek. The portrait painting was swinging forward allowing a studen to enter.
Harry sat there unable to move. Hermione's head had just dropped on to his shoulder. Should I move? He thought, Would it make her feel uncomfortable if she woke up and realized where she was? Is this making me feel uncomfortable? He decided to let it pass and sat back trying to fall asleep. He glanced at Ron who was still at the moment sleeping. Would Ron get jealous if he saw her like this? Oh who cares! And with that Harry closed his eyes and let his head rest comfortably on the side of the bench.
"Hermione? Come on, we're nearly there!" Harry said putting his hand on her arm. He tried to wake her as calmly as possible. She blinked her eyes and sat with her head up. "Hmm.. where are we?" "On a train," Harry said sarcastically sitting up straight as she took her head up away from his shoulder. "Oh I know that! Where's the school?" She answered stretching. "Way over there" Harry replied pointing out the window. He seemed to feel a bit cooler now that she was not close. "Harry?" She whispered. Harry took his eyes away from the window and looked back at her. "Yeah?" "Did I fall asleep on your shoulder like that?" "Well, your head sorta fell on my shoulder." "Oh I'm sorry," Hermione said smiling. Harry smiled, "Really it's alright." He stretched his arms and let out a deep breath. "Shall we wake him?" She asked staring at the sleeping Ron. "Probably. HEY RON!!!!!!" Harry shouted. "Harry!" Hermione said staring at him with a smile, "That was a bit sudden." Ron shook himself and blinked his eyes. "Huh?" He said yawning. "We've arrived," Harry said quietly, standing up as the train came to a sudden stop. Ron slowly got up and leaned on the bench. "Well, I never knew benches were so comfortable."
Hermione walked out of the compartment making sure Harry and Ron were close behind her. The whole Draco Malfoy event still sent a bit of a shiver up her spine. They made their way through compartment after compartment of kids getting their things together and making themselves ready. Luckly, they had all changed before arriving at the platform. It would have been bad if they arrived at Hogwarts in their normal clothes. They jumped off and Hermione made sure her hair was in place after the long sleep she had had on the train. I hope he didn't mind, he had a comfortable shoulder Ron suddenly glanced at her, "Hermione, are you a Prefect?" She looked puzzled, "No, I never got a letter or anything. I never really thought about it till now." I have to be a prefect, I got top marks! "Harry?" Ron asked turning to him. "No, I never received anything either." Harry replied looking as puzzled as Hermione had. "Well who must be the prefects?" Ron said curiously. "If it can't be Hermione I have no idea who it could be," Harry responded shaking his head in disbelief. Hermione went slightly pink and turned to Harry. Ron shrugged, "Well find out soon enough." Hermione got lost in her thoughts I must be a prefect, who else could be? Before them stood horseless carriages awaiting for them to board. Hermione stepped into the carriage slowly and sat down on the white cushioned seat. Harry sat next to her, and Ron sat across from her. They soon moved and the small carriage trotted off to Hogwarts.
Ron put his head in his hand and ran his fingers through his well groomed hair. A part of him wanted the school year to start yet there was still another part of him that wanted it to end. He looked out and saw Hagrid taking the first years across the sea. The lights on the boats reflected off the water and made it look like 1000 of candles were being lit. The water was calm, almost like a mirror. And there stood the dark large castle upon the rocks, with millions of windows with millions of lights streaming out. And there laid the forest. The forest of darkness that no one dared to go in. The forest full of wonder and dreams. Ron hated that forest, he dared to not go back. The trees did not sway the least, only stood making large shadows on the ground. Ron took a deep breath and thought of the year that was before him. Although the popularity part did intrigue him, there was that other part as I have spoken of before that thought of the evil that would be waiting for him. Some how or another, there was always an adventure. Whether he liked it or not, there would always be an adventure. That's part of the baggage of being a friend to Harry Potter. Ah well, we've lived to tell the tale this far Ron reassured himself, This is only another year for a new tale "Ron?" Hermione asked putting her hand on his shoulder. "Yeah?" Ron asked sitting back up. "Are you alright?" She had a bit of concern in her voice that Ron couldn't help but love. Ron smiled at the corner of his mouth, "Yeah, thanks for caring." He then turned to Harry, "Unlike some people.... Harry..." Harry seemed to have dozed off as well for he shook himself and looked at Ron confused. "What?" Ron snickered, "Oh nothing Harry, I was just showing Hermione the pink monkey outside our window." "What?" Harry asked getting more and more confused by the second. Hermione laughed and Ron smiled, "Nothing Harry, go back to your special planet." "Alright, shall you go back to your's.. what is you call it... oh that's right Uranus?" Harry said making Hermione laugh harder.
Hermione hated it when the two of them made fun of one another. Yet it seemed to have gotten funnier over the years. Ron couldn't think of a good come back line so all he did was laugh. At least he can laugh at himself The carriage stopped and soon they were taken inside into the large and mysterious castle. Each room seemed to hold something unknown. The pictures on the wall stared at the kids and some smiled, while others frowned. She followed the rest of the students and soon ended up in the beautifully decorated Great Hall. Candles floated in the air, lighting up the whole room, if it was possible. A few ghosts floated about talking to the them or ignoring them. And there was much chatter in the hall as every person seemed to be talking, and hundreds of different conversations were being held all at the same time. Hermione looked for Harry and Ron who were standing right next to her. Ron's hair looks great, his face has matured and he has a wonderful build She stared at Harry, Harry's hair is perfect, if it is possible for messy hair to be. And his glasses make his eyes look so much more deeper. And he, as well, has a nice build She took a sigh then paid attention to where she was being led to. They took their seats at the Gryffindor table and Hermione sat alone on the other side as Ron and Harry sat next to one another. "Oh Hermione, your all alone," Ron said making a sad face. Hermione smiled, "It's alright, I'm use to be being left out when I'm with you two." "Oh Hermione..." Ron groaned making a sadder face. Hermione snickered, "I'm joking, I couldn't wait to see you two again!" She looked across the room and saw the sneering cold faced Draco Malfoy joking with his friends Crabbe and Goyle. She felt disgusted every time she thought of him, let alone look at him. She looked around the room and took immediate notice to the amount of giggling girls pointing and gawking over her two best friends. Great....
Harry and Ron seemed to have taken no notice to the girls pointing at them, for at the moment they were in a heavy conversation about Quidditch and the new players and the soon to be known captain. Ron kept saying it was Harry and Harry just denied it. He did wonder about the new keeper. Harry looked up at the table and saw an empty seat. "Hey look, isn't that where Defense Against Dark Arts teacher is supposed to sit?" Hermione nodded, "Yes, no one seems to be sitting there. Do you think they're late?" Harry squinted, "I don't know." "Do you think we even have the class?" Ron asked still looking up. Ron and Harry turned to each other, "You don't think..." "No." "He may have." "Oh no he couldn't of." "Then why isn't there anyone there?" "I don't know, they must be late." "It's Snape, it has to be." "No don't say that!" "Stop!" Hermione said looking at them. "We'll find out in a few minutes, just hold on." Harry tried to get his mind back on Quidditch and not the "what if's." He couldn't wait to get back on that broom again. The feeling of flying into the air made him race with excitement. The field with it's green dewy grass, and the stands holding classmates and teachers. Even the morning training sessions sounded wonderful. Slowly the nervous first years entered the room. Some of them looked as if they had just seen Godzilla walk outside. Harry smiled at them all with the thought of his fist encounter with Hogwarts, and the famous Sorting Hat.
Ron looked up at the Sorting Hat sitting sadly on the stool. As soon as the crease turned into a mouth a few of the first years screamed. Ron loved it when that happened. Everyone in Gryffindor clapped and welcomed each first year that would be joining the magical year ahead, and many to come. Albus Dumbledore finally stood up and waited for the room to fall silent. It took awhile, but some how it happened. All eyes were on the man with the silver white beard. He smiled at them all. It was a smile of hope and comfort, and his eyes lit up at the sight of them all. "I welcome you all to Hogwarts. Whether you have been here before or have merely just begun, I ask you to keep away from the forest and to not use magic in the hallways. We have a few new arrangements sadly. There has been a delay with our Defense Against The Dark Arts class. You will not be starting it until further noticed, until then, you are free to use that time for studying, homework, or just relaxing." He took looked at them all, and some how was able to look at every single one them all at the same time. He continued, "I will also announce that no students were informed to be Prefects. There was also a delay to that. I will inform those who are at a later time. In the meanwhile I welcome you all and may you all eat with happiness!" At that the empty plates and bowls filled with food. It was the feast you only read in books, so many types of food all for hundreds of children, all of whom would be spending a year with one another. Ron turned to Harry, "He didn't mention anything about Quidditch now did he?" Harry shook his head, "Well, I'll find out." "It's great we don't have that class!" Ron said with excitment. Hermione turned her face towards Ron, "Don't you realize how far behind we'll all be? We won't be able to learn half the things we were supposed to!" "Come on Hermione! It gives you extra time to read or something." Ron said taking a spoonful of mashed potatoes. "Hey Hermione," Harry said grinning and nudging Ron. "Do you realize all the guys that staring at you right now?"
Hermione looked around the room. There were defiantly some boys staring at her, and whispering to one another. And there were many girls glaring at her, and scolding. Oh, great! She did like where this was going. Harry and Ron laughed. "Please, don't make it harder than it is!" Hermione said pleading. Ron stared at her, "Hermione get used to it, you're going to get pointed at, whispered about, scolded, your name will he heard in gossip and rumors, and most importantly your going to get asked out." Hermione raised an eyebrow, "How can I get 'asked out' when hardly any of the boys in this room know my name?" "Oh trust me, they know your name, from the moment you entered 9 3/4 they knew your name. You'd be surprised how quickly things can travel." Ron said looking satisfied with himself. He took a chicken leg and took large bite out of it, half of it was sticking out of his mouth. Hermione grew quiet and came very self conscience of all the faces glancing at her. It made her feel awkward. How she was able to get use, it she had no idea. The amount of girls glancing at Harry and Ron seemed to have grown, and more giggles could be heard in the background. Harry and Ron were still in a heavy conversation and eating, they didn't take notice to any of the pointed hands or giggling voices echoing through the room. Hermione continued to eat but kept getting bothered with the realization that the two of them had no idea what was going on. "Don't you two see all the girls that are giggling at you?" Hermione said fed up with them. Ron and Harry exchanged looks. Hermione saw Ron grin, and Harry look puzzled. Ron had to have already taken notice to it all. Harry on the other hand had not. Does Harry realize how cute he looks? By the looks of it, no Hermione soon realized Ron's c-ockiness, and Harry's humbleness.
"Hi Harry..." "How are you Harry?" "Harry? Hi my name is..." "Harry? Do you remember the time when you were walking down the hall? Well I was right behind you!" "Meet me in the library!" "We should talk some time!" Harry was being annoyed by so many girls it was unbearable. Ron on the other hand seemed to be flirting.... I mean talking... to everyone that had tried to get his attention. Hermione leaned forward, "You wanna leave now?" "That'd be great!" Harry said getting up. The two of them met up with each other at the end of the table. Girls waved at him as he passed. Hermione laughed at a few of the comments, and Harry laughed as he pointed out all the guys looking at her. They stopped to look at the hall and saw Ron talking to a Sixth Year Ravenclaw. He ran his fingers through his hair, and Harry laughed along with Hermione at the sight of Ron flirting. "They're really going for it," Harry said baffled. "I can't believe it!" Hermione replied looking a tad bit jealous. "Oh lets just go! We'll meet up with him in the common room." Harry and Hermione left the annoying scene and walked back to their common room. Their footsteps echoed and bounced off the walls making the noise seem louder than it really was. The candles and lanterns along the halls flickered and lit the hallway with warmth and comfort. Slowly they made their way up the marble steps and on to the common room. The reached the portrait of the fat lady and stopped. They glanced at each other. "Do you know the password?"
"See you around," and with one more run through with his fingers in his hair Ron got up from the goggling groups of girls. And stood up to search for Harry and Hermione. Although the Great Hall was flooded with kids chattering and shouting, he could not find either of them. He glanced up at the bewitched ceiling to see a clear starry night. The stars seemed to twinkle and the clouds drifted fogging up the few stars that shone through. He did feel like leaving, for he turned around and saw a group of 4th years coming up to him. He left the feast in search for his friends. They have to be up in the common room Ron ran over to the marble staircase and held on to the stone railing. He examined the walls and the paintings, and even smiled at a few of them. God, I hope I know where I'm going "Leaving the feast early Mr. Weasley?" A cold sneering voice was behind him. Ron quickly turned around, "Hello Professor." "What gives you the right to leave early?" Ron gave Snape a long stare, "Well, I don't see any Prefects around, do you?" As we all know, this probably wasn't a very intelligent thing to say to a Professor such as Severus Snape. Snape looked at Ron through two cold dark eyes, "You were never told to leave." "I was never told not to." "You should know better than to leave without permission." "And must I wait for permission to use the toilet?" Snape stopped, "You needed to use the bathroom?" "Well yeah, so excuse me, I need to use it rather badly, thank you." Ron smiled as Snape stared at him. Snape gave him one more cold stare and left with his robes flying behind him. Ron kept smiling and turned around when Snape was out of earshot, "Alright, off to find Harry and Hermione then." When he finally reached the portrait he could find no one. "So what's the password?" He mumbled.
Hermione glanced at Harry, "What do we do now?" "Wait, I suppose for the others to come." Harry answered gloomily. Hermione sighed and sat against the wall. "At least we're away from there."
Harry sat across from her and leaned his head back, "The school year hasn't even begun yet. I'm already annoyed." "Told you to get use to the sound of giggling teenage girls," Hermione said grinning. Harry put his head straight up again, "You aren't giggling at Ron or me, and you're a teenage girl." Hermione laughed, "That's because I know everything about you two! It kind of ruins it, even if you are cute." Harry grinned and looked down, as if he was embarrassed. "Besides, you aren't whispering with Ron about me, or 'checking' me out for that matter." Harry opened his mouth with a slight smile on the corners, "That's because we haven't got a chance to yet!" Hermione opened her mouth in astonishment and started laughing with Harry. "Are you serious?" She exclaimed. "Of course I am," Harry kept laughing. Should I feel weird about that? She thought still laughing at the thought of them talking about her. Hermione looked up and saw Professor McGonagall standing before them. "What are you two doing away from the Great Hall?" "I was getting a headache Professor," Harry said quickly. "We both were," Hermione added. Her stern face studied them closely. Hermione and Harry and stood up and were brushing themselves off. "Well, you're both prefects anyways, you mine as well know the password." Hermione took a breath of relief and turned to the portrait. "Unicorn hair" McGonagall said quickly. She turned to them once more, "Do not leave the Great Hall without Permission again." She left and the two of them glanced at each other with a look of relief. "That was close." Harry said climbing through the portrait hole.
Harry climbed through to find the common room exactly how it was left. The big puffy chairs making them want to sit. The fire gently making the room flicker with shadows, and the settle wooden darkness that made the room comfortable. Hermione and Harry glanced and ran up to their own separate dorms. Both wanting to find the same thing. Harry ran up the stairs and on into the boys dormitories. He searched for his bed and saw a cream coloured envelope sitting on the foot of a bed with "Harry Potter" written on the front. Harry ran to it and grabbed it as fast as he could. He opened it quickly and found the letter. Dear Mr. Harry Potter, Congratulations, you are now your house's Prefect. Do take serious note that you will be of assistance to any help that is needed and will escort those that need to be escorted. Please also note that any wrong doing in the Halls, Corridors, or your own dormitories must be reported. If you do not feel as though you wish to take such a responsibility please inform Professor McGonagall. You now also get privileges. There will at times be separate seating arrangements for Prefects, you will at times must report for meetings, and you also get the pleasure of your own bathroom. If you mistreat these privileges at any time you will be taken off Prefect duties. Your house Password will change once a week, and you will get notified of the new one. The password this week is "Unicorn Hair." More information to come.
Sincerely, McGonagall
Harry looked at his trunk and saw a large gold badge with the name "Prefect" on it. It shimmered in the light and seemed to glow in the dark. Harry quickly put it on and rushed back out to the common room to meet back up with Hermione. She had just run down as well and was smiling back up. Harry noticed the badge on her as well and he felt a wave of excitement.
Hermione looked up at Harry. She felt happy that she was Prefect, but it was wonderful that Harry would be joining her. He came down the stairs and smiled his famous smile. Hermione felt herself go speechless. Why does he have to smile like that?! "I'm a Prefect!" He exclaimed. Hermione smiled back and stroked the back of her hair, "This is great!"
Harry stared at Hermione hoping she would smile back. She did, and Harry felt proud of himself. He stretched his arms out and hugged her as though he was congratulating her. He's hugging me. This feels good, STOP! Hermione tried to let go but couldn't. She just stood there hugging Harry. He apparently couldn't stop either for he did not back away. Don't let go Harry backed away but did not let go. Hermione did the same. He stared at her, and she him. Stop! What are you doing? Hermione couldn't decide, she just stood there staring at him. But there was something stopping her from moving. Should I? Harry was wanted to lean in, but was afraid of what she might do. God just do it! Harry slowly leaned his head forward. Oh my god, he's leaning in, should I? Hermione felt every part of her body go numb, yet she felt herself getting closer to his face. Harry felt himself touch her lips and they kissed passionately.....
Hermione backed away. She wanted to lean in again, but Harry would not. They stared at each other, unable to speak. She had no voice, nor did he, they merely stood there staring. Hermione's arms were holding tightly around his back, and his hands could not move from her waist. Should I? she asked herself wishing for the feeling to return. Harry would not move, he couldn't. He felt Hermione leaning in once more, he tried to tilt is head, but still was unable to take in anything. She didn't care, she felt for his lips and pressed against them. She did not want to end, but soon she found her lips quench for his once more. Harry took a deep breath and tried to speak. He had never felt that way. He could only look at her. She took heavy breaths and made her face close to his. They both felt themselves flinch and could feel one another's breaths stream by. Harry moved in once more. They kissed passionately for awhile. There was a sudden creek. The portrait painting was swinging forward allowing a studen to enter.
