Chapter 18

Late Night Visit and

Worries between Soul Mates

The next morning Hermione woke up first, she sighed in contentment, she felt so safe and warm. She looked at the clock, it was still 4:00; they had an hour before it was time to get up. Harry was breathing softly on her neck; she didn't want to wake him. She started to drift in and out of sleep, at 5:00 she groaned, it was time to get up. She didn't want to, it was even worse than yesterday.

"Harry," she whispered quietly, "Time to get up."

Harry ignored her, "Harry, what do I have to do to wake you?" she asked. 

"Tell me we're not getting up; then I will," replied Harry pulling her hair behind her ears.

Hermione smiled, "Well, we got to get up sometime Harry," she whispered.

"Not today Herm, please," replied Harry.

Hermione giggled, "Do I have to tickle you…?" she asked.

"Not with a guest in the house," Harry laughed, "Please."

"Then get up," said Hermione kissing his hand.

"Since we're both half asleep, doesn't that mean one of us is completely asleep and the other fully awake?" asked Harry.

Hermione laughed, "What?" she smiled.

"Well, I prefer that we both keep sleeping," said Harry, "That way the completely asleep one can actually sleep."

"What?" asked Hermione laughing softly.

"Oh never mind, I was just trying to get you to agree to keep on sleeping…" said Harry disappointed.

Hermione turned around and looked him in the eye, "I'm not even sure I understood what you said," she said.

"Good, if you did, I would be worried," replied Harry.

"Why?" inquired Hermione.

"Because I didn't understand it myself," Harry smiled.

Hermione hit him gently, "Come on lover boy, it's hard enough dragging myself out of bed, without having to drag you out too!" Hermione said between suppressed giggles. Hermione started to stand up, Harry pulled her down again, kissing her passionately.

"Well, now, THAT was a good morning kiss," smiled Hermione a few seconds after they parted.

"I'm glad you liked it, does this mean you'll stay a while?" Harry asked returning her smile.

Hermione looked at him sadly but lovingly, "Nope Harry, it's time for me to get up," she replied.

"But it's Christmas week," Harry said quietly holding her.

"It's also breakfast time," she replied.

"I can wait a couple of hours," Harry smiled.

Hermione wouldn't give in, "Well, I still have to fix it for my mum and dad," she replied kissing him.

She got up to start her normal routine.

Harry groaned as he got up, he waited until Hermione left and got dressed. Hurrying down to see if he could help her, he found her alone at the counter, he tiptoed up behind her and put his arms around her, she jumped, "Harry!" she scolded then laughed, "Don't scare me like that."

Harry kissed her on her cheek in response, "Can I help you?" he asked.

"Yes, you boil water, you'd burn anything else," she said with a smile. Harry pinched her where she was ticklish.

Hermione laughed, "Hey, no fair," she said. Harry started boiling water, breakfast was done when the rest came down, it had gone rather slowly with Hermione and Harry playing around with each other.

Mrs. Granger smiled at Harry and Hermione, "Good morning," she said watching Hermione's face, it looked different today, happier than she had ever seen her before but it seemed to melt into worry when her uncle came in. Mr. Granger picked up the newspaper, Harry saw the front cover, 'Unidentified man and English family found dead in Surry Suburbs'

Harry nearly gasped, "John, can I read the front page?" he asked calmly. "Sure Harry," replied Mr. Granger handing it to him. Harry whispered to Hermione, she straightened up. They began to read:

This morning near Privet Drive in Surry, London a family living at number 4 was found dead, they are identified as; Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Dursley and their son Dudley, but this mornings mystery is two fold, the cause of death is still unknown and who is the unidentified 45 year old male found near by? 'We are running his picture through Interpol and coordinating with several countries to try to identify this man,' said the constable heading up the case, 'The doctors are still looking for a cause of death.' Because the cause of death is uncertain, fears are it is a biological or chemical weapon released by terrorists. The examining doctors insist that there has been no evidence pointing to biological or chemical agents found on any of the victims' bodies, 'We are still looking for the cause of death,' said the leading physician handling the case, 'We ask that you allow us to complete the medical investigation without printing unfounded fears and accusations.' But an assistant physician told us, 'They almost look like they were scared to death.' The questions leading this case are now; who is the unidentified man, where did he come from and what did they all die from? Surely we all hope that these questions are answered soon.

Reporting from Surry, London

Rick Skeeter

Harry looked at Hermione and mouthed, 'Voldemort ,' Hermione went white, it sounded like the Killing Curse alright. They ate quickly and in silence, the adults withdrew to the living room, Hermione got up to pick up dishes, but before she could Harry grabbed her hands and pulled them around her, Hermione smiled at him.

"I'll get it Herm, you sit," Harry said kissing her cheek.

"Thank you Harry," she said, she was feeling very tired, "Do you feel tired?"

"Yes, maybe we can get in a cat nap later," Harry said in a suggesting tone.

Hermione smiled at him, "Sounds good to me," she said. Harry washed the dishes; Hermione got up, dried them and put them away, Harry smiled at her, Mrs. Granger watched. Dave was telling them about his company's latest technological advancement. Mr. Granger was mildly interested, but Mrs. Granger had no interest at all, she excused herself. She watched Harry and Hermione, they seemed like they were talking, but she could only see body language and looks suggesting it but no words. Mrs. Granger realized that Hermione was serious, they were talking telepathically . She could tell by their body language that it was serious. She decided to ask them what was wrong. She walked into the kitchen.

"What's wrong?" she asked. Harry and Hermione glanced at each other.

"Nothing mum," Hermione replied. Mrs. Granger's stance told Hermione she wasn't going to take 'nothing' for an answer. Harry looked at Hermione, she nodded.

"This morning, you remember I asked to read the front page?" Harry asked.

"Yes," Mrs. Granger replied.

"Read it," said Harry handing her the article.

"They'll find out the cause sooner or later," said Mrs. Granger after she read it.

Harry sighed, "We know the cause, we've seen it before," he said.

"What is it?" Mrs. Granger asked. Hermione and Harry looked at each other again,

"Kathy, it's Voldemort," replied Harry, "He's getting closer."

"Voldemort?" asked Mrs. Granger, "So?"

"He's looking for us, or me specifically," said Harry, "He killed the Dursleys. You realize keeping me will put you in danger."

Mrs. Granger sighed, "I know it will, but from what I understand, you've made enough sacrifices because of him and he won't deter us," she replied, "That's final, besides you two are stronger together than separate and I don't think either of you could sleep at night without the other, could you?" Hermione turned red, Harry kept a steady gaze.

"For you guys I would make that sacrifice," he replied.

"I know you would Harry, but we won't let you, you belong here with us now," Mrs. Granger responded. Harry felt as though he could cry, they wanted him, even if it meant that they were in more danger.

"Thank you," he whispered.

Mrs. Granger smiled, "You two go take a nap, you both look like the living dead!" she ordered.

Hermione kissed her mother before walking upstairs, Harry even gave her a hug. "Thank you," said Harry.

"For what Harry dear?" asked Mrs. Granger.

"You care about me, I never thought I would have a true family," replied Harry. Mrs. Granger just smiled at him. Harry walked upstairs, Hermione met him half-way.

"Come on Harry," she said then she looked concerned, "What's wrong?"

"I just can't believe I finally have a caring family," Harry said. Hermione turned a little red.

"Herm, after school and stuff, what are you planning on?" he asked.

Hermione sighed, "I don't know," she replied.

"Ever think of starting a family?" Harry asked. Hermione turned a deeper shade of red.

 "Well, yes actually," she said.

"How many kids would you want?" he asked.

Hermione thought for a moment, "A lot, at least ten," she replied with a smile, she decided to tease him, "If I met the right guy. I wonder if I ever will," she sighed.

Harry gave her a look, "Well, if you do let me know, I think I'll go sleep on the couch…" he said turning around.

Hermione slid her arms around his waist. "Oh, I have, I just haven't told him that," Hermione smiled dreamily, "Maybe I'll tell him a little later…"

Harry stopped and looked at her, "Who might that be?" he asked.

"Oh, I don't know, maybe the one that I can't sleep without…" she replied as they touched their foreheads, "Now let's go take a nap…"

Hermione pulled Harry into her room, "You know I'm playing around with you," she said quietly.

"Yes," replied Harry with a smile.

They both laid down and fell asleep quickly.

Mrs. Granger checked in on them in an hour, they were both still sleeping peacefully. She smiled again, she had listened to them. She knew that Hermione had come around, when the time came, she would get married and have plenty of kids. This sounded perfect to her, she love Harry and knew he would take care of Hermione. She took a key out of her pocket and locked the door on her way out; she didn't want anyone to pry; other than her, of course, besides Hermione could unlock it from the inside.

Hermione and Harry awoke feeling very refreshed. It was now 10:00 already, Hermione was still hesitant on wanting to get up and so was Harry. They lay there for an hour before Hermione had the will to get up.

"Harry," she whispered, "You want to get up?"

Harry grumbled, "No," he replied, "Who would, when he could convince a gorgeous young lady, like you, to stay in bed?"

Hermione turned around and smiled at him, "Well, maybe one that wants to talk about the future with her," she responded.

"Okay, maybe that could convince him," replied Harry sitting up.

Hermione laughed, "You're planning to become an Auror right?" she asked.

"Yes, are you still planning to take Society for the Protection of Elfish Welfare further?" he asked.

"You wouldn't mind, would you?" she asked with a look of concern.

Harry brushed her brown hair out of her eyes, "You do what makes you happy, fulfill your passion, I'd support you, no matter what  you want to do," said Harry.

Hermione smiled at him, "You would?" she asked.

"Even if I was your only member," Harry replied.

Hermione blushed, "Thank you Harry," she said. Harry responded by hugging her. Hermione got up, Harry sat on the edge of her bed, Hermione turned around and looked at him.

"What are we going to do about Voldemort?" she asked.

"Anything we can," Harry replied.

Hermione surprised him by sitting on his lap, "Like?" she asked. Harry's brain was working at quarter speed, it took him a few moments to come up with a reply.

"We'll start by showing impossibly strong bond between us, one that he could never break," Harry replied, his brain working well enough to think of sliding his arms around her. Hermione sighed, wishing deep in her heart he would propose to her.

'But we're too young,' she argued with herself.

Harry heard part of her thoughts, he hugged her, "It almost seems as if the bond between us is getting stronger everyday," said Harry.

Hermione sighed, "I agree, I hope it keeps getting stronger, I love you so much…" she said.

"I love you too Herm, you know you're the most wonderful girlfriend in the world," Harry replied. Hermione leaned back, Harry fell over with Hermione in tow. Hermione giggled as Harry winced.

"Would you think of marrying me before Hogwarts is over?" asked Harry quietly.

Hermione thought for a moment, then sighed, "I don't know," she said, "I think we should at least finish Hogwarts before we get married."

"Engaged?" he asked.

Hermione smiled, "I don't know, maybe," she replied, "I would consider it, if you asked my parents first."

Harry smiled, "For you anything," he said quietly pulling her hair behind her ears.

Mrs. Granger was already fixing lunch when they came down, "Feeling better?" she asked.

"Yes," smiled Hermione.

"Your father asked Uncle Dave to take him on a tour of his business on this side of England," Mrs. Granger said.

"Thank goodness," whispered Hermione to Harry.

"Sounds good," said Harry blandly.

"I wanted to ask you two; have you set a date yet?" she asked.

"A date?" asked Hermione turning red, "What date?"

Mrs. Granger laughed, "You guys both look so red that you might be mistaken for a fire engine," she said, "Hermione, did you know that your father proposed to me when we were both 17?"

"No," said Hermione, "I thought you were older."

"No Hermione," Mrs. Granger smiled, "Actually; I refused."

Hermione looked shocked, "You refused to marry dad?" she asked.

"Yes, but he was very persistent," she replied, "He won out in the end, obviously, took about two months. He would keep proposing to me, ambush style, it's funny to think about now." Hermione laughed as she tried to imagine Harry ambushing her because she refused to marry him.

"Thanks for telling me that mum, that is nice to know, so now it's my turn, I  refuse and Harry ambushes me," she said glancing at Harry slyly. Harry turned slightly red at the thought.

"So Harry, if I refuse would you ambush me?" Hermione asked still laughing.

Harry thought a moment, "Maybe," he said, Hermione detected a 'no' hidden in his answer.

"So Harry, you proposed to her yet?" Mrs. Granger asked.

"No," replied Harry.

"Why not?" she asked, "I'm sure Hermione would love it." It was Hermione's turn to go red.

"Because, we made a deal, first; I ask you guys, then I can propose to her," Harry responded.

"Sounds great to me," said Mrs. Granger, "But you have to finish school first."

"Oh yes, she'd consider getting engaged before finishing at Hogwarts, but nothing else," Harry said. Hermione sat down, listening to the conversation.

"Good job Hermione," said Mrs. Granger, "At least you've got your priorities straight!" Hermione smiled weakly, she felt something was wrong, very wrong.

It was dark, Mr. Granger hadn't returned yet, even Mrs. Granger was worried. Hermione was pacing, Harry watched her carefully, her emotions were raging, changing second to second, her panic evident to him. The phone rang, Mrs. Granger answered it, she listened for a moment.

"Okay, okay, thank you," she said hanging up the receiver.

Harry was looking worried, "What is it Mrs. Granger," he asked.

"John was in an accident, he's in critical condition," she replied sitting down, Hermione stopped pacing, Harry got up quickly and put his arm around her, he led her to a chair and pulled it out for her.

She slumped into it. "What happened?" he asked.

"Somebody ran a red light, they hit the driver side door," she replied, "John was driving. Uncle Dave has minor scratches."

Mrs. Granger looked white, "Is there something I can do for either of you?" asked Harry to both Mrs. Granger and Hermione. Mrs. Granger shook her head. Hermione, on the other hand, didn't answer but Harry knew what she wanted, he sat behind her so she could lean up against him. She gave him a grateful look. Harry smiled lovingly at her; he could feel her calming down as she leaned against him.

Mrs. Granger watched, "You know, no matter what happens, this isn't a total loss," she said. Hermione turned her head to look at her mother. "You and Harry make up for anything that could happen," Mrs. Granger smiled at them.

"I could apparate you guys to the hospital," said Harry.

"What about you?" Hermione almost choked out.

"I don't want to im…" Harry started.

Hermione stiffened, "Harry, don't you dare," she said in a don't-mess-with-me tone.

Mrs. Granger watched with interest, "You guys sound almost like John and me at your age," she laughed. Harry held Hermione, he with a thought apparated them to Mr. Granger's side, Harry muttered something and all three of them disappeared.

"I don't think they like people in the I.C.U." Harry whispered. He looked at Mr. Granger's injuries, he knew how to fix most of them instantly, but he couldn't do it with all the doctors wandering around. Harry probed Hermione's mind, she was very distressed. Harry slid his arms around her, she responded with pressing back on him.

Harry thought about what could be done, "corpus shakas," he said in a whisper, Mr. Granger's larger cuts and more serious problems were healing fast. Hermione leaned all her weight on Harry and looked up at him. Mr. Granger woke up, Mrs. Granger was about to say something.

Harry stopped her, "Mr. Granger, we're here but invisible," whispered Harry.

"Harry?" he asked. "We'll be back in a little while," said Harry. Harry led Mrs. Granger and Hermione past the front desk and into a small room, he muttered and they appeared.

"Okay, Mrs. Granger, let's check in," said Harry.

Mrs. Granger opened the door, Hermione took Harry's hand and whisper, "You don't cooperate, I'll drag you along." Harry squeezed her hand. They followed Mrs. Granger, she walked up to the receptionist.

 "John Granger please," she said. The receptionist typed it into her computer.

"I'm sorry, he can't have visitors yet," she replied, "The waiting room is over there."

"Is he awake?" Mrs. Granger asked.

"No," the receptionist replied, "Not yet."

Mrs. Granger glanced at Harry and Hermione, "Well thank you," she said leaving for the waiting room. Mrs. Granger glance at Harry and Hermione, "well thank you," she said leaving for the waiting room.

Hermione sat down between Harry and her mother.

"Don't worry Hermione," said Harry quietly into her ear, "It's amazing how fast people can heal…"

A doctor came in, "Mrs. Granger?" he asked.

Mrs. Granger stood up, "Yes?" she asked.

"Your husband is awake," said the doctor looking at his clipboard.

"Is he okay doctor?" she asked. Harry smiled, the doctor was looking confused.

"Well, it seems a lot of his injuries weren't as severe as we first thought, he's going to be fine," he replied, "You can visit for a few minutes, immediate family only."

Hermione stiffened, "Herm, nothing rash please," whispered Harry quickly, "I'll wait out here." Harry felt light-headed as they left, he shook his head.

His scar was starting to throb, 'Voldemort?' he thought quickly.

"Well, well, Harry Potter, I see you came with the Grangers, congratulations, I thought I wouldn't ever get you out of that ten mile radius," Voldemort sneered.

"Ah, shut up," replied Harry.

"A little more respect I think," Voldemort said, "Crucio."

Harry deflected it with a glowing white shield, "That's enough Voldemort," Harry said seriously, "I don't want to fight you in public."

"I don't care," replied Voldemort, he cast another spell, Harry deflected it again.

"Well I do," Harry said, "If I fight you in public, it will be for the last time."

"Yes Potter, it will be," sneered Voldemort. The lights went out, then back on; Harry had disappeared, Voldemort hid his shock after an instant. Then he felt a great shove and fell onto the floor with all his Death Eaters. They found themselves many miles away from where they started and unable to apparate.

Harry sighed, it was difficult not healing Mr. Granger completely, but to fight Voldemort, Harry shivered; they could bring down the entire hospital! Harry appeared again, while the lights flickered off. Harry leaned back and waited for Hermione and Mrs. Granger. They were a few more minutes, Hermione sat back down next to Harry and snuck her hand into his, Harry's light-headedness stopped, he wondered whether maybe the mental anguish of separation was starting to manifest physically.

"John says 'thanks' for taking us," Mrs. Granger said to Harry snapping him out of his thoughts.

Harry smiled "My pleasure," he replied. Hermione laid her head on Harry's shoulder, Harry responded by stroking her hair. Mrs. Granger smiled; at least Hermione was still calm, last time something like this happened to them, before Hogwarts, she had fainted from the stress.

Harry didn't say anything about Voldemort but Hermione picked it up, "What is it?" she asked.

Harry sighed, "Oh, he just was pulling his usual nonsense," he replied continuing to stroke her hair.

"Harry," she said warningly.

"I'm serious, he just tried his usual nonsense, but I did find out something," he responded.

"What?" she asked.

He smiled, "Neo was serious, Voldemort mentioned a 10 mile radius." Hermione smiled, Harry could tell she was tired. She was starting to drift off. After Hermione fell asleep, Harry watched her for a moment.

Mrs. Granger smiled at Harry, "She is a wonderful daughter," she said.

"A wonderful person too," replied Harry, "She's really special…"

"Yes, she'd make a good mother… don't you think so?" she asked.

Harry turned red, "I'm sure she would," Harry responded, "Why are you asking me though? I'm not really quite qualified to answer, besides, I'm biased."

"Well, one; I want to make sure she is taken care of. Two; you would do that very well, I've heard about the way you two help each other," said Mrs. Granger.

Harry smiled, "That is part of friendship," he said.

"Yes, but it is more a part of marriage," Mrs. Granger replied.

Harry nodded, "Yes, I guess it is."

"When will the doctors release him?" asked Harry.

"They said maybe tomorrow," replied Mrs. Granger.

"I should probably take Hermione home," Harry said looking at her.

"Let's all go home and get a good night sleep," Mrs. Granger agreed. Harry looked around the waiting room, there wasn't anybody in it. He apparated them home. Harry picked up Hermione and carried her to her room, then he came down and sat at the table.

"I'm sorry this happened," said Harry.

Mrs. Granger smiled, "It's not your fault," she replied, "But you can do me a really big favor."

"What?" asked Harry.

"Go sleep with her," Mrs. Granger nodded as Hermione appeared at the bottom of the stairs.

"Hey," said Harry gently, "You're supposed to be asleep."

Hermione sat down and shook her head, "I can't," she replied.

Mrs. Granger looked at Harry, "Why don't you both go to bed?" she asked.

"Because, I figured you would like some company," said Harry.

"That's very sweet Harry, but I rather Hermione get some sleep, she's had a trying day," Mrs. Granger replied. Harry sat down next to Hermione; she rested her head on his shoulder and started nodding off. Harry smiled; he looked at Mrs. Granger.

"It seems like if we're not in proximity we wake up," he said, "That's interesting."

Mrs. Granger laughed, "Yes, interesting, but not very good if one is very tired and the other is trying to be the man of the house," she replied, "Please, pick her up and go to bed yourself." Harry picked up Hermione gently and carried her to her bed. Harry left for a moment to get undressed, Hermione was sitting by the door when he opened it. Harry picked her up and she smiled at him, resting her head on his chest. Harry put her on her bed and then lay behind her.

"Good night Herm," he whispered kissing her. Harry could feel her turmoil, she was crying, "Hey Herm, it's alright," Harry comforted. He held her tightly, she started to calm down. Harry curled up with her and she fell asleep.

Harry sighed with contentment, he was so happy that his life… his heart… his soul was resting in front of him, he started to fall asleep, he wondered what tomorrow would bring. With that thought he fell into a deep sleep.

Harry felt distress, he woke up, Hermione was breathing rapidly, "Herm," Harry gently shook her. She didn't wake up.

"HERMIONE," he said louder. She sat up quickly, Harry hugged her.

"You okay?" he asked.

Hermione pulled him tighter around her, "Nightmare," she said feeling out of breath and her voice shaking.

"Do you want to tell me about it?" he asked.

"No," she said tears creeping up on her. Harry held her, trying to comfort her. He didn't say anything; Hermione just seemed to want him close.

"I love you," Harry whispered in her ear. Hermione seemed to be calming down.

"I love you too Harry," she replied in a still shaky voice. Harry continued to hold her tightly for a few minutes, it felt to Harry she was close to calmed down when Mrs. Granger entered.

"Guys, dad can come home," she said winking at Harry. Hermione flushed that her mother had seen them being affectionate, but she was happy all the same. Harry smiled, he felt her anxiety lifting.

"That's great mum," he replied.

Hermione elbowed him in the ribs, "Not yet," she whispered in his ear.

Harry smiled, "If I have my way she will be," he whispered back. Hermione blushed, "Well, have I said yes?" she asked. Mrs. Granger was laughing; she knew what they were discussing.

"No, but you couldn't say no either," replied Harry. Hermione laughed, "That's what you think buster," she said.

'Do you want to sleep at night?' Harry asked, "That answer is the same you'll give me if I proposed."

Hermione smiled, "Touché," she replied pulling his arms around her no longer caring that her mother was watching them.

Mrs. Granger laughed again, "Come on guys, get up, I'm going to go pick him up," she said.

Hermione got up, "That's great," she said.

"Could both of you stay here?" she asked, "I picked up Uncle Dave a couple hours ago."

Harry nodded, "Take Hermione, I'll stay," he said.

"No," said Hermione quickly, "I'll stay with Harry."

Mrs. Granger laughed, "Sure, I figured you might," she said. She started downstairs, "Harry, could you come here a moment?" she asked.

"Sure," said Harry following her downstairs.

"Don't leave her alone, okay? I'm just a little concerned for her," said Mrs. Granger.

Harry smiled, "I wouldn't anyway," he replied quietly.

Mrs. Granger left while giving Harry a smile.

Hermione came down, "What did mum want?" she asked.

"Oh, nothing big," replied Harry giving her a loving smile.

"Then you can tell me can't you?" said Hermione standing in a no-nonsense way.

"Okay, okay," he said.

"Mum wanted to make sure I was watching you," said Harry with a smile.

Hermione laughed, "Don't worry, I won't let you out of my sight, you might ambush me," she responded lightly.

"Only if you refuse," replied Harry with a laugh.

Hermione pulled her hair back, "Well, I can't yet, you haven't asked," Hermione smiled.

"Mum likes the idea," said Harry.

"She's not your mum yet Harry," Hermione replied staunchly.

"Soon…" Harry said.

Hermione looked Harry in the eye, "Maybe," she said a slight smile playing on her lips.

"Dare I ask if I can kiss you?" asked Harry in a mesmerized whisper.

Hermione smiled, "Oh yes, you can Harry Potter," she replied. Closer and closer…

"Ouch," came a sound.

Hermione pulled back, "Can I kill him?" asked Hermione groaning.

Harry laughed, "No, please don't, it's bad enough I didn't get to kiss you without you ending up in jail," he replied, "Besides, that's my job." Harry winked as he kissed her playfully and Hermione laughed.

"I'll go check on him," said Harry.

"I'll go with you," Hermione replied following him.

"Dave, you want something?" asked Harry.

"Some water would be nice," answered Dave. Hermione left and came back handing Harry a glass of water,

Harry whispered in her ear, "Thanks, but Dave was the one who asked for it."

Hermione gently kicked his heel, "That's who it's for genius," Hermione answered in a playful whisper. Harry gave it to Dave. He was sore but he wasn't badly hurt. Harry glanced at Hermione, she was leaning on the door jam, to Harry she looked absolutely magnificent. The light around her hair reminded him of a beautiful angel…

"Anything else?" asked Harry snapping out of his 'daydreaming'.

"No, thanks," answered Dave. Harry and Hermione left, they went outside for a moment.

"Harry, would you really propose to me now?" she asked.

"In a heartbeat," replied Harry sitting down. Hermione sat on his lap, Harry was surprised again, but not enough to not slide his arms around her.

She sighed, "This has been one exciting year hasn't it?" she asked.

"Yes," responded Harry, "So much worry though… we've almost lost each other a couple times."

"But we've hung together," responded Hermione, "That's the important part."

Harry hugged her tighter, "Yes, but I don't think I could stand losing you, it would kill me inside," Harry replied.

Harry listened for a moment, "Your parents are home," he said quietly. Hermione got up and turned slightly red. She walked in and opened the back door, with Harry close behind.

Harry helped Mr. Granger up to his bedroom, "Anything I can get for you John?" he asked.

"Not right now, thank you Harry," he replied. Hermione came in and hugged her dad,

"I'm glad you're feeling better," she said sounding concerned. Harry smiled as he walked out.

Harry sat down in the living room, he had to figure out what he was going to do, Mr. Granger could be healed very quickly, but he also didn't want to attract attention from Dave. There was still a couple days left until he was gone. Hermione watched him, Harry didn't look up, Hermione listened to his thoughts. "Harry, what do you mean?" she asked.

Harry looked up surprised, "What?" he asked.

"You are saying my dad can be healed in minutes?" she asked.

"Yes, the only problem is I don't want to attract muggle attention," Harry replied, "Especially him, I have a bad feeling about him, but I can't put my finger on it."

Hermione nodded, "I know, I don't trust Uncle Dave either," she said sitting down next to him.

They sat in silence for a moment, "Only a week left before Hogwarts begins again," said Harry.

"Yes, and a year left until N.E.W.T. exams," said Hermione.

"Our last year, scary isn't it," said Harry, "Time has gone so fast." "Yeah," replied Hermione hugging him, "Too fast. I may have to say no." she smiled.

Harry sighed, "Then I'd have to ambush you," he said with a grin. Hermione tickled him, Harry laughed, "Okay, okay!" he said.

It was time for lunch, Hermione fixed it, Harry carried some to Dave and Mr. Granger. "Thank you Harry," said Mr. Granger, "Could you stay a moment?" Harry looked down the hall, he could feel Hermione's uneasiness.

"Sure, just don't be surprised if Hermione walks in," Harry answered.

"Then I'll make it quick, Harry, Kathy told me that both of you are interested in marriage," he started.

"Only with both of your permission," Harry responded quickly.

"As long as you finish school first; I have no problem with it, you know why Harry?" he asked.

 "No, why?" Harry replied.

"Because, I know you will take very good care of her," Mr. Granger responded then he paused, "Do you realize how much trust you engender?"

Harry smiled, "No, but I will live up to it," Harry said.

Hermione walked in after his last comment, "Harry, what's holding you up?" she asked.

"Oh nothing," Harry started to reply but knowing she would try to wrangle it from him later stopped and thought a moment, "I was making sure there was nothing else I could do for him." He gave her a charming smile, Hermione looked suspicious, but dropped it.

That night Hermione wanted to talk for a while, "Harry," she said quietly, "Are you still up?"

"Depends," replied Harry, "Is it time to get up?"

"No," Hermione laughed, "Not even close."

"Then yes," said Harry sitting up. Hermione leaned against him; they both enjoyed each others warmth fro a moment.

"What happened when mum came in and asked about what happened?" she asked.

"Oh, that," Harry laughed, "I was teaching."

"Teaching what?" she asked.

"Oh, just a simple lesson, common courtesy," replied Harry smiling at her.

Hermione sighed, "Will you ever tell me?" she asked.

"That answer will come in time, as will a question…" Harry smiled at her.

"What question?" prompted Hermione with a smile.

"Later Herm," Harry replied.

"How much of the future do you know Harry?" asked Hermione.

"Oh, Herm, the future changes, I know the general direction, only Neo knows the specifics," said Harry.

"Why?" she asked.

"He is the… I guess I would call him a gatekeeper, he protects us from ourselves, in a way, he is a guide," replied Harry he pulled her hair back gently, she smiled up at him.

"Where is he guiding us?" she asked.

"Towards the best possible future, I guess," said Harry quietly as he slid his arms around her bare stomach. Hermione smiled, she enjoyed Harry's care. He didn't act like other boys, he didn't want action , or at least in that sense, he wanted to talk, discuss, he never had this in any relationship, neither had he ever had any meaningful relationship, so here he got it. But he also wanted closeness; another thing he had never had, Hermione had almost cried after she watched his childhood all the way to present. Harry craved love and attention; not because of his fame, all he wanted was an intimate and loving relationship, even if it was just friendship, but she thought that he deserved more. In other words; he wanted her love, she loved it and felt so wanted. Harry was so wonderful to her; she hoped he felt she reciprocated. She knew she had the perfect boyfriend. One who didn't demand anything; one who just wanted her heart; her love. Harry had stolen that; no one else would ever have it. She wasn't his prize though; never did that thought cross his mind, he took it as a gift that could be revoked by her. But she could never do that to him; she loved him too much. His only demand was that other people not bug her.

"Herm," said Harry gently, "You're the best girlfriend in the universe." Hermione smiled; he definitely loved her. He stroked her hair gently, she began to fall asleep. Harry watched and kissed her neck,

Hermione smiled and giggled slightly, "Oh Harry, stop it," she said looking up lovingly.

Harry smiled affectionately, "I love you," he said. Hermione put her head on his chest. She listened to his heart beat; it began to put her to sleep. Harry continued to stroke her hair lovingly.

Harry spoke in Parsaltongue to a snake on the floor, "Please, watch Dave," he said, "Wake me if he starts to make his way up here." The snake bowed slightly and slithered out of the room silently. Harry thought quietly as Hermione slept on his chest, he didn't want to wake her. He thought of how he had learned, he, now, was more than an unregistered animagus. He smiled as the thought of the animals he could transform into; more than he could mention but the most notable was he could turn into a Phoenix.

'A symbol of my rising,' thought Harry careful not to wake Hermione, he remembered that he could control fire as a Phoenix. But Harry knew what he was protecting her from, he knew of Dave's type, 'Disgusting creature,' thought Harry in repugnance. He gently slid down under the covers, Hermione now slept on a pillow. Harry curled up as close as he could without waking her. He awoke at 2 p.m.

Harry grumbled, 'Not again,' he snapped.

Hermione woke up, 'What is it Harry?' she asked.

'Please sleep,' thought Harry affectionately, 'I guess my last lesson didn't come across as powerfully as I expected.'

'Oh,' Hermione yawned, 'Good night then.' She fell asleep on his chest again, Harry gently moved her head and got up and waited.

The snake slithered in, "He issss coming," it hissed. Harry nodded, it slithered under Hermione's bed. Harry pulled on his white cloak, he had a few surprises up his sleeve. He heard the door creak, light fell across Harry's cloak, as someone crept in.

"Who are you?" asked a voice.

Harry concentrated a moment, his skin emitted bright flames, his eyes turned flaming red and blue, he turned… unrecognizable.

"I AM," said Harry. He had his cloak's hood slide off his head, his head emitted white hot flames eyes flashing red and blue as though they were flames themselves, "THE ANCIENT," he finished, Harry motioned and the door shut before Dave could make a run for it.

"Understand one thing," said Harry in a deep voice, "You will leave her alone, if you do not…" Harry lit the entire room on fire, "You will be tortured eternally, you sick…" Harry glanced at Hermione. He cursed at Dave in Parsaltongue, words that were so bad they were untranslatable; even the snake reared and looked offended.

Harry ignored it, Dave looked complete frightened, "Who are you?" he asked.

Harry paused, "The one who shall protect at all costs," he answered.

"Protect what?" Dave asked.

Harry didn't answer, "Now go, before I change my mind," Harry said releasing the door with another motion. Dave didn't take any chances, he ran from the room, Harry's skin returned to normal, his eyes faded from flaming red and blue to bright green.

He lay down behind Hermione again; she turned around and smiled at him, "I love you Harry," she said quietly. Harry curled up smiling at her and started to fall asleep.

"Hey guys?" came Mrs. Granger's voice.

Hermione groaned, "Yes mum?" she answered.
"What was this about…" she stopped and glanced at a smiling Harry.

"Just teaching…" he trailed off.

"Harry," scolded Hermione, "Teach at a godly hour will you?"

"I would if I could," said Harry hugging her. Hermione smiled at his affection.

Mrs. Granger shook her head, "Harry between you, your lessons and Uncle Dave, I'm never going to get any sleep," she said.

"If he kept his grubby little … in bed I wouldn't have to teach," said Harry not inserting a cuss word as he remembered there were two ladies present.

"Can't you keep him in bed Hermione?" asked Mrs. Granger.

Mr. Granger appeared, "Well?" he asked. Hermione turned red from the insinuation from her mother.

"Harry won't get up again, right?" she asked. Harry glanced at her, her hint was more than evident to him, if he wouldn't get up again, she would maybe even consider making this a permanent arrangement.

Harry smiled at her, "I won't, as long as I don't have to, I don't want to get up at 2 in the morning," he said then added in a whisper only Hermione could hear, "I would much rather spend it in bed with you Herm."

"Why do you get up then?" asked Mr. Granger as Hermione kicked him under the sheets.

"I don't like people entering my room at 2 in the morning, apparently he didn't get that the first time, so I took a more direct approach," Harry replied wincing as Hermione's kick connected, then yawning, "It, most likely, won't happen again, good night." Mrs. Granger and Hermione rolled their eyes at the same time. Harry held her tighter, Mr. and Mrs. Granger left to go back to bed. Hermione broke Harry's hold on her and turned around, they felt each others warm breath…

"Harry?" Hermione said quietly. Harry didn't answer, he moved closer and found her lips, he kissed her gently, lightly.

"Yes?" he whispered.

Hermione smiled at him, "More," she said quietly. Harry kissed her more passionately. Hermione took a sharp intake of breath as their lips touched, an eternity past…

After a while Harry and Hermione pulled back slightly, "I love you Harry," she said.

"I love you, Hermione Granger," Harry replied.

They both wanted to kiss again, Hermione smiled at him, she kissed him gently, "I suppose you want to say Hermione Granger Potter?" she asked. Harry snapped his fingers, a dark flame floated above them. Hermione's pulse raced. Maybe? Would he propose to her?

"If it's not too much trouble," he whispered into her ear.

She kissed him more passionately, "I love you Harry, so much," she said drawing back. Harry seemed to sense the same thing she did; he didn't ask to kiss her. She knew that she was very important to him; much too important to risk their relationship. She turned around and curled up with him, she giggled into their pillow.

Harry's face heated up, "I love you Harry, good night," she said stifling giggles as she drifted off.