Hermione, Harry, and Ron all sat in the common room that night. Hermione pretended to be reading but her mind drifted to the untidy hair and bright eyes beside her. Ron clearing his throat and announcing he was going to bed, looking pointedly at her, snapped her back to reality. They were all alone now. She could feel her heart pounding in her throat as he turned to look at her.

"Hermione, about this morning" he said.

"Harry, I'm sorry, I shouldn't have overreacted like that…"

"Why did you get so upset? I know it's big and all, but Ron's ok".

"Ron's nothing like me."

"True", Harry laughed, "But still."

"Harry, I …I just-" but just as Hermione was gathering the courage to confess her feelings to Harry, the portrait hole opened, and Professor McGonagal came in.

"Er…Professor?" Harry asked.

"Potter, Granger, you'll need to come with me. You too Weasly." Ron had been listening at the top of the stairs. The three of them followed her to the headmaster's office. When they entered, Professor Dumbledore motioned for them to sit down.

"The time has come", he said, "Harry, you have told Ron and Hermione about the prophecy?" he asked.

Harry nodded. "Then, I'm afraid you know already…"Dumbledore looked worn. "Lord Voldemort has challenged you Harry, again and again and you have made it through. Now, I must ask you, to challenge him".

"The ministry wishes to catch Voldemort off guard" Dumbledore continued, "As you know, you are the only one who can kill him, Harry".

"Professor, what are you saying?" Ron asked.

"The time has come", Dumbledore repeated, "for the prophecy to be fulfilled".

"Harry will have the option of having your and Miss Granger's help, should he wish".

"No, I don't want to risk their lives", said Harry.

"Harry, this is no time to play hero! We're helping!" Ron insisted."