A/N: Thanks to Lissie89 and ears91 for the wonderful reviews!
Big hug to my beta, Lissie! Isn't she the best?
Disclaimer: All of the HP characters belong to the wonderful J.K. Rowling, but she's kind enough to let me borrow them every now and then for my own entertainment...Like now, for instance.
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Chapter 6
Hermione and Harry continued not speaking to each other for another two weeks. Hermione was miserable. She missed being able to go to Harry and talk about any-and-everything. She missed it so much that it hurt sometimes. Then she would think about the things he'd said, and the hurt would deepen for an entirely different reason. 'His behavior was absolutely uncalled for ' she thought furiously, slamming down the book she had been reading. She pulled her homework toward her and began writing on it, but her thoughts were still on Harry. Once she'd finished, she leaned back warily in the chair she was occupying in the common room (even though her rooms were now elsewhere, she did spend some time in the common room after classes). Harry and Ron were there as well, but on the other side of the room. Hermione could tell that Ron hated being in the middle of their fight. Even though they weren't making him choose or anything, he still hated it. Over the past hour, he had gone between Hermione and Harry several times, trying to make idle conversation. When it became obvious that neither of them were going to say more than a few words, Ron gave them both a disgusted look before disappearing behind a Charms book.
Unbeknownst to Hermione, Harry was feeling equally miserable. Not only because they weren't speaking to each other, but because he knew that he'd overreacted. He knew it wasn't Hermione's fault. He felt like a complete jerk for taking it out on her. Harry knew exactly what he had to do to make it up to 'Mione. So why was he hesitating? Taking a deep breath, Harry set his homework aside and stood. Without a thought in his head, Harry's legs walked him over to where Hermione was sitting and sat him down in the chair closest to her. Hermione was aware of his presence immediately. She noticeably stiffened, but didn't look at him. Harry didn't look at her, either; he just sat there, staring at the floor, not knowing how to begin.
Then he made up his mind and began to speak, "Hermione, I want to...apologize for the things I said when we fought. I completely over- reacted. I also want to apologize for ignoring you. Hermione, I shouldn't have done that. I'm sorry." He chanced a glance at her. She was no longer sitting as rigid as a board, but her face gave nothing away. Harry was about to stand up and return to his original seat when Hermione held out her hand. Harry looked at it for a second before reaching over and taking it, squeezing gently. Hermione finally looked at him. Her eyes were misty, but she was smiling.
"Okay," she said, "I want to also say that I'm sorry, Harry. I should've tried harder to get them to let me-" but Harry cut her off by putting a finger to her lips.
"None of it was your fault, Hermione." Harry stood, tugging softly on Hermione's arm to get her to stand as well. Once she did, Harry put his arms around her and pulled her in close for the hug he'd needed for quite some time. Hermione didn't resist in the slightest. In fact, she laid her head on his shoulder, facing inward toward his neck. Harry put his chin on top of 'Mione's head, continuing to hold her. He breathed deeply. She smelled like lavender...
"So I guess that this means you two have made up finally?" Ron asked, coming to stand next to them. 'Leave it to Ron to interrupt a moment like this...' Harry thought, releasing Hermione reluctantly. Hermione didn't seem to mind, though. She smiled at Ron.
"Yeah, I guess it does." Ron looked from Hermione to Harry, an angry look on his face.
"Ron?" Harry said, "Are you okay? Ron?" Ron stared at him for a moment before answering.
"IT'S ABOUT BLOODY TIME!" he hollered, drawing the attention of everyone in the common room. Harry and Hermione began to laugh, softly at first, but it steadily got louder.
"What's wrong with you two?" Ron was looking at them like they were mad. Harry and Hermione ignored him, though. All they could do was laugh.
~
As the winter months disappeared and warm weather set in, Harry and Hermione had never been closer. You couldn't find one without the other anymore, no matter what was going on. Harry would even surprise Hermione sometimes by showing up outside her rooms in the mornings with a flower or some other precious trinket. Hermione would squeal with delight whenever this happened, take the special gift, and put it away safely. All the flowers had been pressed in a book, and everything else went into a special compartment in her trunk. Then they would walk to breakfast together, sometimes Hermione would be holding onto Harry's arm by the time they arrived in the Great Hall.
Ron began to feel a little bit like a third wheel. He didn't mind much, though. Harry and Hermione had never been happier, and Ron was not going to ruin it for his friends. In fact, he made sure Harry and Hermione were together at every possible chance. He made sure they paired up together during classes, that they sat together during meals, and that their chairs were close together in the common room. Harry noticed that Ron was playing a bit like a match-maker, but he didn't mind. That is, until Ron brought it up at the end of January. They were sitting in the common room, working on homework. Hermione had gone to her room early, so Ron decided it would be the perfect moment to bring up the subject of Hermione's and Harry's budding relationship.
"You know, there's going to be a Hogsmeade visit on Valentine's Day," Ron said to Harry while staring intently at his Potions homework. Harry looked up at Ron, but said nothing. "Maybe you could ask Hermione..." Ron trailed off, finally looking at Harry.
"Ron," Harry said, sounding a little annoyed, "you know as well as I do that Hermione's not allowed to go to Hogsmeade."
"But if she were, would you ask her?" Harry was quiet for a moment, thinking. Would he? Actually...yes, he would. This didn't come as a big shock to him. He already knew his feelings for Hermione had...changed, or maybe grown would be a better word.
"Yes," he whispered finally. Ron's eyes grew wide.
"You would?" He hadn't expected that answer. He just thought Harry had been blissfully unaware of what was going on between him and Hermione for the last few months. Ron studied Harry's face for a moment before his eyes grew wider with another realization.
"Harry, how long have you known that you...that you like Hermione?" They were still whispering.
"For a while now, Ron, but that doesn't mean I know what to do about it."
"What to do about it? " Ron shouted, incredulous.
"Would you keep your voice down?" Harry asked, looking around the common room. Ron lowered his voice for Harry's sake.
"You tell her, that's what you do about it." It was Harry's turn to widen his eyes.
"I can't, Ron."
"Why not?"
"Because...what if she doesn't feel the same way? I'd feel like an idiot."
"Harry, I don't think that's something you have to worry about. Have you not seen the way Hermione lights up whenever you walk into a room?" Harry said nothing as he looked away from Ron and back at his homework.
"Plus...Harry you have to promise that you won't tell Ginny I told you this." Harry looked back at Ron. He looked deadly serious. Harry nodded.
"I overheard her and Hermione talking in the library the other day. Hermione does like you, Harry, and as more than just a friend." Harry was a little surprised, but not much. He had suspected that his feelings were returned, but he didn't want to get his hopes up to have them crushed. If what Ron was saying were true...
"Okay, suppose she does like me. What am I going to do about it?"
"That's why I brought up Hogsmeade." Harry rolled his eyes and mentally counted to ten before responding.
"Ron, she can't go to Hogsmeade."
"I know she's not allowed to go, but that doesn't mean she wouldn't if given the chance. She's been stuck in this castle the entire year, Harry. I'd want to get out for a while if I was in her place." Harry stared at Ron, unable to respond. Ron did have a point, but would Hermione actually do it? She had, after all, promised her parents. On top of that, Dumbledore and McGonagall were keeping an eye on her. Harry seriously doubted Hermione would agree to sneak out. Ron noticed Harry's hesitance.
"The professors aren't always in Hogsmead, you know, and she could get there through the witch's hump."
"Do you think she'll actually sneak out, Ron?" It was Ron's turn to hesitate.
"I don't know, but neither will you if you don't at least try." Reluctantly, Harry nodded.
"Okay, I'll ask her." He stood and left the common room, completely missing Ron's triumphant smile. Before he knew it, Harry was standing if front of the tapestry hiding Hermione's room. He pushed the tapestry to the side before pressing on the center stone. Harry dropped the tapestry and stepped back. It transformed into a door before his very eyes. Harry knocked on the door and heard a muffled "Just a second " from the other side. Hermione appeared in the doorway, positively beaming when she saw who it was. Harry completely forgot what he had come to see her for as the bottom dropped out of his stomach, and he felt himself grinning back at her.
"Harry! What are you doing here?" Hermione asked, still beaming. Everything came back to Harry in a rush as he stomach clenched painfully. 'Oh boy...' he thought.
"I came to talk to you. Can I come in?" Hermione moved out of the doorway as Harry stepped inside and took a seat in the only chair. Hermione sat down on her trunk at the end of her bed and faced Harry. She leaned forward slightly and clasped her hands together in front of her.
"Okay, I'm listening," she said. Harry smiled nervously, unsure of where to begin. There were so many things he wanted to tell her, all of it on the tip of his tongue. The ability to speak, however, seemed to have left him as he looked deeply in those big brown eyes. Hermione's eyes narrowed suddenly.
"Harry? Did you want to talk about something?" she asked, watching him closely. Harry nodded and leaned forward a little. He reached toward Hermione and grasped both her hands with his. She looked slightly caught off guard, but she didn't remove her hands. Harry tore his gaze away from her eyes and looked down at Hermione's hands. He began rubbing her fingers in lazy circles as he thought about how delicate her hands looked in his huge palms. Delicate...Not a word usually associated with Hermione Granger.
"Harry?" Hermione said again, still not moving her hands. Harry stopped making the circles and looked up at her. He took a deep breath.
"Valentine's Day is coming soon." Hermione nodded, but didn't say anything. Harry took another deep breath.
"Hermione, I really like you, and I love spending time with you more than you can imagine. Would you spend Valentine's Day with me in Hogsmeade?" She was still for a moment before looking slightly crestfallen.
"Harry, you know I can't go to Hogsmeade."
"If there was a way to get you there, would you?" She hesitated.
"My parents..."
"I know your parents said you couldn't go this year, but even you admitted that they're not acting fair. Hermione, what in the world could happen? Voldemort is gone, Hermione. Gone..." Harry's voice didn't sound angry or accusatory. He was speaking very low, in a pleading sort of way. Hermione choked on her next words as she gazed into his hypothetic emerald eyes. Incapable of coherent speech, she nodded. Relief sprang instantly into Harry's face. He leaned down and brushed a kiss against the back of her hand before standing and pulling her into his arms. Hermione wrapped her arms around his waist, hugging him tightly. Harry thought that they fit together perfectly...
"Harry?" Hermione mumbled against the side of his neck.
"Mm?"
"How am I getting to Hogsmeade?" Harry smiled into Hermione's hair. He turned his face to the side to answer.
"Remember the witch's hump?" Hermione nodded, smiling.
"That's how," he said, releasing her. He slid his hands down her arms to hold her hands again. She stepped back and gazed up at him. Harry leaned down and kissed her cheek.
"It's a date then," he whispered in her ear. Silent shivers made their way down Hermione's back at the feel of Harry's breath. Harry released her and made his way out of her rooms, smiling broadly.
~
Harry awoke to blazing sunlight on Valentine's Day. He smiled involuntarily as he sat up and threw his covers off. He had been smiling a lot lately...Harry pulled his shirt over his head as he thought about the approaching day. Just him and Hermione, alone. No one else to keep up with, and no one tagging along behind them. It's not that Harry didn't enjoy spending time with both Ron and Hermione. Ron is his best friend and nothing could change that, but he was really looking forward to being with just her. It had been a long time since it was just the two of them. Harry finished dressing and went down to breakfast.
~
"Well Hermione," Ron said loudly after breakfast, "we'll see you later, then."
"Yeah. Bye 'Mione!" Harry said, throwing her a sly wink. Filch was watching everyone very closely as he marked names off the list in his hands. He had kept one eye on the trio since they'd walked into the Great Hall. The little show was for his benefit, plus anyone else who might be watching. Hermione winked back at Harry.
"Bye boys!" she called, waving at them and heading up the staircase. Harry turned and walked out of the Great Hall and into the brilliant sunlight. He'd never felt happier as the warm sun hit his face. He and Ron chatted lightly until they reached Hogsmeade. When they reached Honeydukes, Ron clapped Harry on the back before heading in another direction. Harry went inside to wait for Hermione. Harry looked around the store quickly, wary of anyone who might snitch if they caught Hermione there. Satisfied, Harry began looking around at the different sweets. He saw the big barrel of Fizzing Whizbees, the levitating sherbert balls, the pink squares of coconut ice, honey-colored toffees, and Droobles Best Blowing Gum. He had just started looking at the sugar quills when he felt a tap on his shoulder. Harry smiled widely before turning to face her. Her cheeks were flushed from the long walk through the tunnel, but she was smiling back at him. "Hey," he said.
"Hey yourself." She stood on tip-toe and kissed Harry's cheek.
"What do you want to do first?" he asked her.
"Everything," she said. After looking around some more in Honeydukes, 'everything' is exactly what they did. Harry and Hermione went into every store in Hogsmeade, talking about the various items there, school, and the approaching N.E.W.T.s exams. Harry had never felt more comfortable being alone with anyone before. Well, he felt fine being alone with Ron, but it was different being with Hermione. Even though his stomach would soar into his throat whenever their eyes locked, there was this strange surreal feeling he got when he was around her. He was afraid this wonderful day was a dream. To try and prove it wasn't, Harry held her hand pretty much the entire time. Their hands were another perfect fit...The last place they went before lunch was the Shrieking Shack.
"I can't believe people were once afraid of this place," Hermione said, leaning against the rail.
"Easy for you to say. We know what used to make the noises." Harry looked around. They were completely alone. Hermione shrugged, not noticing the absence of others.
"Very true, Harry." Harry turned and faced Hermione. He put his hand on her arm to get her attention. Hermione turned to face him, looking a little nervous suddenly.
"Thank you for coming to Hogsmeade with me today, Hermione. I can't think of anyone I would rather spend this day with." Hermione nodded an agreement. As their eyes locked, Harry suddenly felt a little hot under the blazing sun. Squashing the impulse to tug at his collar, Harry started to lean forward to kiss her when she looked down suddenly. Harry put a finger under her chin and raised her face to look at him. Hermione's eyes were wide and her lips parted slightly. Harry grinned a little.
"You're so beautiful. Do you know that, Hermione?" He didn't give her the chance to answer. Harry tangled his fingers in her brown locks as he kissed her. Hermione remained stiff for a moment before responding to him. She wrapped one arm around his waist and used the other to rub his cheek lightly. Harry made a low growling noise in his throat before pulling Hermione closer to him, deepening the kiss. Harry took his hand out of Hermione's hair and put it at the small of her back, slightly above his other hand. He rubbed lightly up and down her spine. It was a good thing Harry was holding her because her knees decided to give out on her. Harry broke the kiss suddenly, his breathing slightly labored. Harry grinned at Hermione, who looked slightly dazed. She grinned back. Harry kissed her lightly this time as he began to let her go. Once apart, Harry took her hand and they walked back into town.
~
"How about a butterbeer?" Harry asked, holding the door to the Three Broomsticks open for 'Mione. She nodded and walked in ahead of him. They walked to a table toward the back. There was an outcropping of wall that hid them slightly from the rest of the place. 'Good,' thought Harry, 'Maybe no one will bother us...' After Hermione was seated, Harry walked to the bar to get the drinks. As soon as he sat down and handed Hermione her drink, Harry vaguely heard the door open and close. He wasn't paying it any attention, though. That is, until he saw Hermione's face. She sat frozen in her seat, staring towards the door. Harry followed her gaze. As soon as he saw them, he felt like a bucket of ice water had just been poured over his head. In had walked Dumbledore with McGonagall and a few other professors. Harry and Hermione looked at each other before sliding to further hide themselves behind the wall. Hermione looked terrified as she came into contact with Harry's side.
"It's going to be okay," Harry whispered, kissing her forehead. "When Madam Rosmerta comes to get their drink orders, we'll slip past her and out the door. See, the place is starting to fill up. We should be able to get out unnoticed." Hermione nodded weakly. Rosmerta walked up to the professors at that moment. Harry and Hermione slipped silently from their booth. They tried to get lost amongst the students entering the Three Broomsticks. They were five feet from the door when a voice stopped them in their tracks.
"Miss Granger!" Harry's stomach dropped below his feet at the sound of McGonagall. Hermione was also motionless next to him. They both turned to face their Head of House, who looked livid.
"You know you're not allowed in Hogsmeade, Miss Granger! Explain yourself!" Harry tried to step forward to defend Hermione, but she stepped down on his foot to stop him. "Well?" McGonagall shrieked, looking daggers at Hermione. Dumbledore came up behind McGonagall, looking from Harry to Hermione and back. Confusion was quite clear in his eyes.
"I'm sorry, Professor," Hermione whispered while staring down at her feet.
"What were you thinking? You know you don't have permission to be here. You also know why, Miss Granger." McGonagall's glasses had slid to the end of her nose, and she was studying Hermione over the rims. The last sentence provoked a pang of guilt in Hermione. She seemed to shrink slightly. Harry was about to step forward again when Hermione stepped harder on his foot. Dumbledore didn't miss the slight movement. He looked back up at Hermione and Harry, a knowing twinkle in his eye.
"Minerva, I believe Miss Granger has learned her lesson. Please return to Hogwarts you two." Dumbledore gave them a comforting smile and nod of the head before returning to the other professors. McGonagall shot them another menacing look before following Dumbledore. They walked back to Hogwarts in silence. Harry could tell that Hermione felt guilty about it. This made him feel awful. What if she regretted going with him at all? Hermione said that she didn't feel much like eating, so Harry walked her to her room. When they got to the tapestry, Hermione pushed the brick and the door appeared. Harry took hold of Hermione's hands. He leaned over and brushed his lips lightly against her cheek.
"Don't regret going to Hogsmeade with me today, Hermione," he whispered. She nodded sadly, not really meeting his eyes.
"I don't," she said. She grinned at him slightly before going into her room and closing the door. The tapestry reappeared. Harry felt horrible. Hermione was feeling guilty and it was all his fault. He was the one who'd talked her into going. Harry paced in front of the tapestry, thinking. He had to make it up to her, but how? What could he do to make her feel better? 'Think,' Harry told himself. 'I have to think of something...' All of a sudden, another door appeared. This one was directly across from Hermione's room. Harry knew exactly what the room was, but why had it appeared? He hadn't been thinking of anything specific...
Harry reached out and grasped the knob. He pulled the door open and looked inside. His mouth fell open. 'It's perfect,' Harry thought. 'Hopefully, this will make Hermione feel a lot better...'
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Thanks for reading! Please leave a review and let me know what you think about the story. I'd like to hear what you think is in the room. Any guesses?
BTW, go check out Lissie89's stories She's now working on her third fic which is off to a really good start. As a matter of fact, she's killing me with the curiosity! :)
Big hug to my beta, Lissie! Isn't she the best?
Disclaimer: All of the HP characters belong to the wonderful J.K. Rowling, but she's kind enough to let me borrow them every now and then for my own entertainment...Like now, for instance.
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Chapter 6
Hermione and Harry continued not speaking to each other for another two weeks. Hermione was miserable. She missed being able to go to Harry and talk about any-and-everything. She missed it so much that it hurt sometimes. Then she would think about the things he'd said, and the hurt would deepen for an entirely different reason. 'His behavior was absolutely uncalled for ' she thought furiously, slamming down the book she had been reading. She pulled her homework toward her and began writing on it, but her thoughts were still on Harry. Once she'd finished, she leaned back warily in the chair she was occupying in the common room (even though her rooms were now elsewhere, she did spend some time in the common room after classes). Harry and Ron were there as well, but on the other side of the room. Hermione could tell that Ron hated being in the middle of their fight. Even though they weren't making him choose or anything, he still hated it. Over the past hour, he had gone between Hermione and Harry several times, trying to make idle conversation. When it became obvious that neither of them were going to say more than a few words, Ron gave them both a disgusted look before disappearing behind a Charms book.
Unbeknownst to Hermione, Harry was feeling equally miserable. Not only because they weren't speaking to each other, but because he knew that he'd overreacted. He knew it wasn't Hermione's fault. He felt like a complete jerk for taking it out on her. Harry knew exactly what he had to do to make it up to 'Mione. So why was he hesitating? Taking a deep breath, Harry set his homework aside and stood. Without a thought in his head, Harry's legs walked him over to where Hermione was sitting and sat him down in the chair closest to her. Hermione was aware of his presence immediately. She noticeably stiffened, but didn't look at him. Harry didn't look at her, either; he just sat there, staring at the floor, not knowing how to begin.
Then he made up his mind and began to speak, "Hermione, I want to...apologize for the things I said when we fought. I completely over- reacted. I also want to apologize for ignoring you. Hermione, I shouldn't have done that. I'm sorry." He chanced a glance at her. She was no longer sitting as rigid as a board, but her face gave nothing away. Harry was about to stand up and return to his original seat when Hermione held out her hand. Harry looked at it for a second before reaching over and taking it, squeezing gently. Hermione finally looked at him. Her eyes were misty, but she was smiling.
"Okay," she said, "I want to also say that I'm sorry, Harry. I should've tried harder to get them to let me-" but Harry cut her off by putting a finger to her lips.
"None of it was your fault, Hermione." Harry stood, tugging softly on Hermione's arm to get her to stand as well. Once she did, Harry put his arms around her and pulled her in close for the hug he'd needed for quite some time. Hermione didn't resist in the slightest. In fact, she laid her head on his shoulder, facing inward toward his neck. Harry put his chin on top of 'Mione's head, continuing to hold her. He breathed deeply. She smelled like lavender...
"So I guess that this means you two have made up finally?" Ron asked, coming to stand next to them. 'Leave it to Ron to interrupt a moment like this...' Harry thought, releasing Hermione reluctantly. Hermione didn't seem to mind, though. She smiled at Ron.
"Yeah, I guess it does." Ron looked from Hermione to Harry, an angry look on his face.
"Ron?" Harry said, "Are you okay? Ron?" Ron stared at him for a moment before answering.
"IT'S ABOUT BLOODY TIME!" he hollered, drawing the attention of everyone in the common room. Harry and Hermione began to laugh, softly at first, but it steadily got louder.
"What's wrong with you two?" Ron was looking at them like they were mad. Harry and Hermione ignored him, though. All they could do was laugh.
~
As the winter months disappeared and warm weather set in, Harry and Hermione had never been closer. You couldn't find one without the other anymore, no matter what was going on. Harry would even surprise Hermione sometimes by showing up outside her rooms in the mornings with a flower or some other precious trinket. Hermione would squeal with delight whenever this happened, take the special gift, and put it away safely. All the flowers had been pressed in a book, and everything else went into a special compartment in her trunk. Then they would walk to breakfast together, sometimes Hermione would be holding onto Harry's arm by the time they arrived in the Great Hall.
Ron began to feel a little bit like a third wheel. He didn't mind much, though. Harry and Hermione had never been happier, and Ron was not going to ruin it for his friends. In fact, he made sure Harry and Hermione were together at every possible chance. He made sure they paired up together during classes, that they sat together during meals, and that their chairs were close together in the common room. Harry noticed that Ron was playing a bit like a match-maker, but he didn't mind. That is, until Ron brought it up at the end of January. They were sitting in the common room, working on homework. Hermione had gone to her room early, so Ron decided it would be the perfect moment to bring up the subject of Hermione's and Harry's budding relationship.
"You know, there's going to be a Hogsmeade visit on Valentine's Day," Ron said to Harry while staring intently at his Potions homework. Harry looked up at Ron, but said nothing. "Maybe you could ask Hermione..." Ron trailed off, finally looking at Harry.
"Ron," Harry said, sounding a little annoyed, "you know as well as I do that Hermione's not allowed to go to Hogsmeade."
"But if she were, would you ask her?" Harry was quiet for a moment, thinking. Would he? Actually...yes, he would. This didn't come as a big shock to him. He already knew his feelings for Hermione had...changed, or maybe grown would be a better word.
"Yes," he whispered finally. Ron's eyes grew wide.
"You would?" He hadn't expected that answer. He just thought Harry had been blissfully unaware of what was going on between him and Hermione for the last few months. Ron studied Harry's face for a moment before his eyes grew wider with another realization.
"Harry, how long have you known that you...that you like Hermione?" They were still whispering.
"For a while now, Ron, but that doesn't mean I know what to do about it."
"What to do about it? " Ron shouted, incredulous.
"Would you keep your voice down?" Harry asked, looking around the common room. Ron lowered his voice for Harry's sake.
"You tell her, that's what you do about it." It was Harry's turn to widen his eyes.
"I can't, Ron."
"Why not?"
"Because...what if she doesn't feel the same way? I'd feel like an idiot."
"Harry, I don't think that's something you have to worry about. Have you not seen the way Hermione lights up whenever you walk into a room?" Harry said nothing as he looked away from Ron and back at his homework.
"Plus...Harry you have to promise that you won't tell Ginny I told you this." Harry looked back at Ron. He looked deadly serious. Harry nodded.
"I overheard her and Hermione talking in the library the other day. Hermione does like you, Harry, and as more than just a friend." Harry was a little surprised, but not much. He had suspected that his feelings were returned, but he didn't want to get his hopes up to have them crushed. If what Ron was saying were true...
"Okay, suppose she does like me. What am I going to do about it?"
"That's why I brought up Hogsmeade." Harry rolled his eyes and mentally counted to ten before responding.
"Ron, she can't go to Hogsmeade."
"I know she's not allowed to go, but that doesn't mean she wouldn't if given the chance. She's been stuck in this castle the entire year, Harry. I'd want to get out for a while if I was in her place." Harry stared at Ron, unable to respond. Ron did have a point, but would Hermione actually do it? She had, after all, promised her parents. On top of that, Dumbledore and McGonagall were keeping an eye on her. Harry seriously doubted Hermione would agree to sneak out. Ron noticed Harry's hesitance.
"The professors aren't always in Hogsmead, you know, and she could get there through the witch's hump."
"Do you think she'll actually sneak out, Ron?" It was Ron's turn to hesitate.
"I don't know, but neither will you if you don't at least try." Reluctantly, Harry nodded.
"Okay, I'll ask her." He stood and left the common room, completely missing Ron's triumphant smile. Before he knew it, Harry was standing if front of the tapestry hiding Hermione's room. He pushed the tapestry to the side before pressing on the center stone. Harry dropped the tapestry and stepped back. It transformed into a door before his very eyes. Harry knocked on the door and heard a muffled "Just a second " from the other side. Hermione appeared in the doorway, positively beaming when she saw who it was. Harry completely forgot what he had come to see her for as the bottom dropped out of his stomach, and he felt himself grinning back at her.
"Harry! What are you doing here?" Hermione asked, still beaming. Everything came back to Harry in a rush as he stomach clenched painfully. 'Oh boy...' he thought.
"I came to talk to you. Can I come in?" Hermione moved out of the doorway as Harry stepped inside and took a seat in the only chair. Hermione sat down on her trunk at the end of her bed and faced Harry. She leaned forward slightly and clasped her hands together in front of her.
"Okay, I'm listening," she said. Harry smiled nervously, unsure of where to begin. There were so many things he wanted to tell her, all of it on the tip of his tongue. The ability to speak, however, seemed to have left him as he looked deeply in those big brown eyes. Hermione's eyes narrowed suddenly.
"Harry? Did you want to talk about something?" she asked, watching him closely. Harry nodded and leaned forward a little. He reached toward Hermione and grasped both her hands with his. She looked slightly caught off guard, but she didn't remove her hands. Harry tore his gaze away from her eyes and looked down at Hermione's hands. He began rubbing her fingers in lazy circles as he thought about how delicate her hands looked in his huge palms. Delicate...Not a word usually associated with Hermione Granger.
"Harry?" Hermione said again, still not moving her hands. Harry stopped making the circles and looked up at her. He took a deep breath.
"Valentine's Day is coming soon." Hermione nodded, but didn't say anything. Harry took another deep breath.
"Hermione, I really like you, and I love spending time with you more than you can imagine. Would you spend Valentine's Day with me in Hogsmeade?" She was still for a moment before looking slightly crestfallen.
"Harry, you know I can't go to Hogsmeade."
"If there was a way to get you there, would you?" She hesitated.
"My parents..."
"I know your parents said you couldn't go this year, but even you admitted that they're not acting fair. Hermione, what in the world could happen? Voldemort is gone, Hermione. Gone..." Harry's voice didn't sound angry or accusatory. He was speaking very low, in a pleading sort of way. Hermione choked on her next words as she gazed into his hypothetic emerald eyes. Incapable of coherent speech, she nodded. Relief sprang instantly into Harry's face. He leaned down and brushed a kiss against the back of her hand before standing and pulling her into his arms. Hermione wrapped her arms around his waist, hugging him tightly. Harry thought that they fit together perfectly...
"Harry?" Hermione mumbled against the side of his neck.
"Mm?"
"How am I getting to Hogsmeade?" Harry smiled into Hermione's hair. He turned his face to the side to answer.
"Remember the witch's hump?" Hermione nodded, smiling.
"That's how," he said, releasing her. He slid his hands down her arms to hold her hands again. She stepped back and gazed up at him. Harry leaned down and kissed her cheek.
"It's a date then," he whispered in her ear. Silent shivers made their way down Hermione's back at the feel of Harry's breath. Harry released her and made his way out of her rooms, smiling broadly.
~
Harry awoke to blazing sunlight on Valentine's Day. He smiled involuntarily as he sat up and threw his covers off. He had been smiling a lot lately...Harry pulled his shirt over his head as he thought about the approaching day. Just him and Hermione, alone. No one else to keep up with, and no one tagging along behind them. It's not that Harry didn't enjoy spending time with both Ron and Hermione. Ron is his best friend and nothing could change that, but he was really looking forward to being with just her. It had been a long time since it was just the two of them. Harry finished dressing and went down to breakfast.
~
"Well Hermione," Ron said loudly after breakfast, "we'll see you later, then."
"Yeah. Bye 'Mione!" Harry said, throwing her a sly wink. Filch was watching everyone very closely as he marked names off the list in his hands. He had kept one eye on the trio since they'd walked into the Great Hall. The little show was for his benefit, plus anyone else who might be watching. Hermione winked back at Harry.
"Bye boys!" she called, waving at them and heading up the staircase. Harry turned and walked out of the Great Hall and into the brilliant sunlight. He'd never felt happier as the warm sun hit his face. He and Ron chatted lightly until they reached Hogsmeade. When they reached Honeydukes, Ron clapped Harry on the back before heading in another direction. Harry went inside to wait for Hermione. Harry looked around the store quickly, wary of anyone who might snitch if they caught Hermione there. Satisfied, Harry began looking around at the different sweets. He saw the big barrel of Fizzing Whizbees, the levitating sherbert balls, the pink squares of coconut ice, honey-colored toffees, and Droobles Best Blowing Gum. He had just started looking at the sugar quills when he felt a tap on his shoulder. Harry smiled widely before turning to face her. Her cheeks were flushed from the long walk through the tunnel, but she was smiling back at him. "Hey," he said.
"Hey yourself." She stood on tip-toe and kissed Harry's cheek.
"What do you want to do first?" he asked her.
"Everything," she said. After looking around some more in Honeydukes, 'everything' is exactly what they did. Harry and Hermione went into every store in Hogsmeade, talking about the various items there, school, and the approaching N.E.W.T.s exams. Harry had never felt more comfortable being alone with anyone before. Well, he felt fine being alone with Ron, but it was different being with Hermione. Even though his stomach would soar into his throat whenever their eyes locked, there was this strange surreal feeling he got when he was around her. He was afraid this wonderful day was a dream. To try and prove it wasn't, Harry held her hand pretty much the entire time. Their hands were another perfect fit...The last place they went before lunch was the Shrieking Shack.
"I can't believe people were once afraid of this place," Hermione said, leaning against the rail.
"Easy for you to say. We know what used to make the noises." Harry looked around. They were completely alone. Hermione shrugged, not noticing the absence of others.
"Very true, Harry." Harry turned and faced Hermione. He put his hand on her arm to get her attention. Hermione turned to face him, looking a little nervous suddenly.
"Thank you for coming to Hogsmeade with me today, Hermione. I can't think of anyone I would rather spend this day with." Hermione nodded an agreement. As their eyes locked, Harry suddenly felt a little hot under the blazing sun. Squashing the impulse to tug at his collar, Harry started to lean forward to kiss her when she looked down suddenly. Harry put a finger under her chin and raised her face to look at him. Hermione's eyes were wide and her lips parted slightly. Harry grinned a little.
"You're so beautiful. Do you know that, Hermione?" He didn't give her the chance to answer. Harry tangled his fingers in her brown locks as he kissed her. Hermione remained stiff for a moment before responding to him. She wrapped one arm around his waist and used the other to rub his cheek lightly. Harry made a low growling noise in his throat before pulling Hermione closer to him, deepening the kiss. Harry took his hand out of Hermione's hair and put it at the small of her back, slightly above his other hand. He rubbed lightly up and down her spine. It was a good thing Harry was holding her because her knees decided to give out on her. Harry broke the kiss suddenly, his breathing slightly labored. Harry grinned at Hermione, who looked slightly dazed. She grinned back. Harry kissed her lightly this time as he began to let her go. Once apart, Harry took her hand and they walked back into town.
~
"How about a butterbeer?" Harry asked, holding the door to the Three Broomsticks open for 'Mione. She nodded and walked in ahead of him. They walked to a table toward the back. There was an outcropping of wall that hid them slightly from the rest of the place. 'Good,' thought Harry, 'Maybe no one will bother us...' After Hermione was seated, Harry walked to the bar to get the drinks. As soon as he sat down and handed Hermione her drink, Harry vaguely heard the door open and close. He wasn't paying it any attention, though. That is, until he saw Hermione's face. She sat frozen in her seat, staring towards the door. Harry followed her gaze. As soon as he saw them, he felt like a bucket of ice water had just been poured over his head. In had walked Dumbledore with McGonagall and a few other professors. Harry and Hermione looked at each other before sliding to further hide themselves behind the wall. Hermione looked terrified as she came into contact with Harry's side.
"It's going to be okay," Harry whispered, kissing her forehead. "When Madam Rosmerta comes to get their drink orders, we'll slip past her and out the door. See, the place is starting to fill up. We should be able to get out unnoticed." Hermione nodded weakly. Rosmerta walked up to the professors at that moment. Harry and Hermione slipped silently from their booth. They tried to get lost amongst the students entering the Three Broomsticks. They were five feet from the door when a voice stopped them in their tracks.
"Miss Granger!" Harry's stomach dropped below his feet at the sound of McGonagall. Hermione was also motionless next to him. They both turned to face their Head of House, who looked livid.
"You know you're not allowed in Hogsmeade, Miss Granger! Explain yourself!" Harry tried to step forward to defend Hermione, but she stepped down on his foot to stop him. "Well?" McGonagall shrieked, looking daggers at Hermione. Dumbledore came up behind McGonagall, looking from Harry to Hermione and back. Confusion was quite clear in his eyes.
"I'm sorry, Professor," Hermione whispered while staring down at her feet.
"What were you thinking? You know you don't have permission to be here. You also know why, Miss Granger." McGonagall's glasses had slid to the end of her nose, and she was studying Hermione over the rims. The last sentence provoked a pang of guilt in Hermione. She seemed to shrink slightly. Harry was about to step forward again when Hermione stepped harder on his foot. Dumbledore didn't miss the slight movement. He looked back up at Hermione and Harry, a knowing twinkle in his eye.
"Minerva, I believe Miss Granger has learned her lesson. Please return to Hogwarts you two." Dumbledore gave them a comforting smile and nod of the head before returning to the other professors. McGonagall shot them another menacing look before following Dumbledore. They walked back to Hogwarts in silence. Harry could tell that Hermione felt guilty about it. This made him feel awful. What if she regretted going with him at all? Hermione said that she didn't feel much like eating, so Harry walked her to her room. When they got to the tapestry, Hermione pushed the brick and the door appeared. Harry took hold of Hermione's hands. He leaned over and brushed his lips lightly against her cheek.
"Don't regret going to Hogsmeade with me today, Hermione," he whispered. She nodded sadly, not really meeting his eyes.
"I don't," she said. She grinned at him slightly before going into her room and closing the door. The tapestry reappeared. Harry felt horrible. Hermione was feeling guilty and it was all his fault. He was the one who'd talked her into going. Harry paced in front of the tapestry, thinking. He had to make it up to her, but how? What could he do to make her feel better? 'Think,' Harry told himself. 'I have to think of something...' All of a sudden, another door appeared. This one was directly across from Hermione's room. Harry knew exactly what the room was, but why had it appeared? He hadn't been thinking of anything specific...
Harry reached out and grasped the knob. He pulled the door open and looked inside. His mouth fell open. 'It's perfect,' Harry thought. 'Hopefully, this will make Hermione feel a lot better...'
*************
Thanks for reading! Please leave a review and let me know what you think about the story. I'd like to hear what you think is in the room. Any guesses?
BTW, go check out Lissie89's stories She's now working on her third fic which is off to a really good start. As a matter of fact, she's killing me with the curiosity! :)