PART FIVE

The last day of the N.E.W.T.S dawned bright and clear. Breakfast had gone past in a blur. The first exam of the day had been particularly hard and two students had had to be removed from the exam hall. At least, he was another step closer to finishing and perhaps Remus.

Hermione and Ron had proven to be remarkably supportive following his revelation. Ron had remarked that, at least it meant he would never have him as a brother-in-law and none of his nieces or nephews would have the birds nest that Harry considered hair. Hermione had reassured Harry that Sirius and Remus were merely friends and proceeded to relate some of the stories she had heard. Harry and Hermione had also discussed the various approaches he could use. Turning up naked in his bed had quickly been dismissed as a very bad idea.

Harry suddenly realised that Ron was trying to get his attention.

"What?"

"You've been sitting there with your fork in front of your mouth for the last ten minutes."

"Sorry."

"It's ok. It's these exams. They've sent us all a bit loopy. Hermione has just gone to cross reference something she wrote in her notes."

"Are you sure that's where she's gone?"

"Oh don't go there, please? I don't need that thought in my head before an exam. That Ravenclaw lad is still gibbering in the corner. Anyway, I hope she hurries up. It's nearly time to go to the exam hall."

Hermione had not returned by the time they left the main hall and they met up with her halfway to the exam hall, talking to Professor Lupin.

"Harry, Ron how are you? Hermione and I were just discussing the D.A.D.A. exam. What was your opinion of it?"

"I've blanked it out."

"RON."

"Hermione not everyone likes to replay an exam over and over again, so that we're convinced we've actually failed, as we hear all the points that other people put in or we remember the important points we meant to put in or how other people interpreted the questions."

"You and Harry discuss quidditch games over and over again?"

"That's different. That's tactics!"

"How did you find it, Harry?"

"I think I covered the main points."

"You must be excited about being so close to finishing. Any plans for tonight?"

"I know a bunch of the students are heading into Hogsmeade for a night on the town. Neither Dumbledore nor McGonagall seem particularly enthusiastic about the idea of me going with them though."

"I know it might be cramping your style a bit, but maybe if I offered to go with you, the headmaster might allow you to partake in some of the celebrations?"

"Would you?"

"Of course, it's not every day you finish your N.E.W.T.S and it'd be a shame to miss out on the associated celebrations. You've missed too much as it is!"

The trio quickly showed their appreciation and plans were made to meet in the entrance hall. Hermione became especially excited after Professor Lupin left them and they continued on their way to the exam hall.

"You know, this could just be the opportunity you've been waiting for."

"Yes, because declarations of love should, invariably, be made in incredibly public places with plenty of witnesses, just so you'll never forget the rejection."

Smacking Harry over the head, Hermione said, "don't think like that!"

"Hermione, I'm about to go into an exam and you decide to kill off some of the few remaining brain cells I have."

"Actually, I'm not sure it'll make any real difference."

"Ha ha. You're a real comedian."

"I was being serious."Exchanging a group hug, they headed to their places to start the exam.