Disclaimer: Sorry that this took so long to get up. I took my time writing
and revising it.
*Chapter 3: Avalon*
When Harry arrived at school Monday morning, he was greatly surprised by what was going on. Several police cars were parked out in front of the school with news trucks too.
"What's going on?" he asked as he found Ron and Padma together on the steps of the school.
"You didn't hear?" Ron asked with a bewildered look on his face. Harry shook his head. "Neville Longbottom's parents were killed this weekend."
"Poor Neville," Padma whispered as she wiped a few tears away. "I hope he's alright."
"How did it happen?" Harry asked.
"I don't know, but they were shot. I guess it happened late Saturday afternoon. Neville was out, and came home to find his father's body, and the police found his mother's a few hours later in a dark alley," Ron explained.
"Where is Neville now?" Harry asked.
"I think he was taken to his grandma's," Padma mumbled.
"But why are all of the police here?" Ron questioned. Harry and Padma shrugged their shoulders lightly.
"Son of a bitch. Quick, let's go before 'the mouth' gets over here," Ron said. Unfortunately, it was too late, for 'the Mouth' quickly walked up.
"Good morning, you three. How would you like to be interviewed for this evenings news?" Rita Skeeter asked. She had a microphone in her hand, and a cameraman just behind her.
"Wow. You actually have the time to interview us? I guess you're finally taking a break from ruining people's lives," Harry said with a glare.
"Now, now, Mr. Potter. We both know that it isn't my fault that people can't keep secrets buried, and reporting them is my job."
"Whatever," he said as he turned and walked up the steps to the school.
Rita Skeeter glared at his back. "Turn the camera on, Kenny." She quickly raced up the steps, calling out to Harry, Ron, and Padma as they neared the front doors. "How does it feel to know one of your friends' parents were brutally murdered?" she called.
"I don't know. How does it feel to be a fucking ugly bitch with a lame ass television show?" Ron snapped. Students around them roared with laughter. The three quickly entered the school, leaving Rita Skeeter to retreat to her news van in a hurry.
"God, I hate her," Padma said as she opened her locker.
"Don't we all," Harry muttered as he pulled out his Chemistry books.
"Talking about Rita Skeeter again?" Cho asked as she approached.
"Bingo," Ron said as he slammed his locker shut, his Chemistry books in his right hand.
"She's stirring up trouble again, this time with the murder of Neville's parents," Padma whispered in a sullen tone.
"I heard about it this morning," Cho breathed out. "I feel so horrible."
"I know that we really shouldn't be happy at this time, but I have to talk to you," Padma said as a small smile spread across her face. Harry saw Ron blush lightly as he quickly buried his face in his Chemistry book. Cho and Padma left them quickly, heading towards their first period class.
"What was that about?" Harry asked as he and Ron strolled down the hallway.
"Nothing," Ron quickly mumbled, getting ready to change the subject.
Harry opened his mouth to try to get the truth out of his best friend when someone called out his name from behind. Both he and Ron turned, and Ron caught the rare smile that appeared on Harry's face. He usually only saw this face when Harry devastatingly defeated Malfoy in a tennis match. A girl that Ron had never seen before approached, but Ron concluded that Harry knew her from his huge smile.
"Hey, Hermione," Harry said softly as she approached.
"Hi, Harry," she said. She looked at Ron and smiled to him as well. "Hello."
"Oh, forgive me. Hermione, this is my best friend, Ron Weasley. Ron, this is Hermione Granger," Harry said, introducing them.
"It's nice to meet you," Hermione said as she shook his hand.
"Likewise," Ron replied.
"Hermione and Cho used to be good friends when they lived in Boston." Harry opened his mouth to say more, but the bell rang and Mr. Laene quickly ushered them inside. Harry and Ron sat on the stools at their lab table, while Hermione was ushered to the front to talk with the professor. Without being told to, all students began to work on their experiments. Harry and Ron carefully mixed their solution together, making sure they made no mistakes.
"So, who is she?" Ron asked quietly.
"You know who she is, Ron."
"Yes, but what is her story?"
"She used to live in Boston, and she was good friends with Cho. Hermione and her family just moved in this weekend and Cho and I took her with us to Barnes and Nobles on Saturday," Harry explained.
"Except Cho didn't go with you."
"How did you know?"
"Harry, Cho may be bright, but we both know she doesn't like to read much. Too many books scare her," Ron chuckled.
Harry smirked. "Speaking of Saturday, how did your date go?"
Ron's face flushed red, and he quickly turned away to gather the steel wool ball that they would need next for the experiment.
"Well? What happened?" Harry asked as he took the steel wool ball from Ron.
"Well, I took Padma to dinner. She loved the necklace, and then we went back to my place, since my parents weren't home."
Harry blinked. "Did you have sex?" Harry asked quietly, as if he was whispering. Harry didn't need an answer, because Ron's face once again turned red. Harry laughed, gathering a few looks from the other students.
"Well what were you two doing Sunday morning? I tried to call you."
"Oh, well Padma and I got up early yesterday morning and went to breakfast. I took her home afterwards," Ron explained.
"Hand me the stirring stick," Harry commanded after he dropped the steel wool ball into the solution contained in the Erlenmeyer flask. Ron passed him the small stick, and Harry began to stir the contents around.
Up at the front desk, Hermione was still talking to their chemistry professor as he handed her a book for the class. Harry smiled softly.
"Earth to Harry!" Ron said, waving his hand in front of Harry's face. Harry quickly stopped daydreaming.
"What?" he asked, rather loudly.
"You can stop stirring now," Ron said, pointing at the flask. Harry looked down. The steel wool ball had been broken up in to particles, so he removed the stick and ceased stirring.
"You like her," Ron whispered as he scooted his stool closer.
"What? No, I don't," Harry replied after slightly hesitating.
"Then what is it? Why are you acting different?"
Harry sighed. "I don't know what's going on, Ron. I just met her two days ago, and I enjoy being around her though I hardly know her. When I think or see her, I can't keep myself from smiling," Harry explained slowly, managing to not hide his smile.
"So you have a crush on her?' Ron asked.
"I don't know."
A moment of silence passed, in which Harry and Ron cleaned up their lab table, placing their flasks on the side. Ron opened his mouth and asked Harry a question that completely caught him off-guard. "Are you going to break up with Cho?"
Harry stuttered for a moment before finally regaining his voice. "No. Why would you even ask that?"
Ron sighed softly and picked up his books. "What I see is obvious to me, Harry. Hopefully you will see it and accept it before it lands you in trouble."
The bell rang, and Ron quickly left the classroom. Harry was left there by himself until Hermione approached him.
"Are you coming?" she asked.
"Yes, I am." Harry stood and picked up his books. "So, what class you have next?"
"French IV with Madame Mosner."
"Tu aimes Francais?" Harry asked with a small smirk.
"Oui. Do you have that class next too?" Hermione asked.
"Yes, I do. You're in luck because there is an empty seat in front of me."
"Oh, and I'll be happy to sit there," Hermione grinned.
*--------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------*
Monday flew by and so did the rest of the week. The weekend came and went, taking the next week with it. By then, Hermione had become close with everyone, especially Harry. To Cho's discontent, he would often do things with Hermione. Plus, Hermione was in all of Harry's classes, except for two of them. She was always around at lunch, and Cho was almost sick of Hermione after her first week there. But Cho never told anyone about her feelings. She didn't even tell Padma, because Hermione had grown on her too.
As for Harry, he didn't think about what Ron had said the previous week. He figured that he would find out eventually like Ron said he would. Harry just hoped that what Ron meant wasn't a serious problem.
*--------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------*
Friday night roared to life once the sun went down. Offices were emptied, and the clubs began to fill up.
Around three o'clock in the afternoon, Harry had called Cho, Ron, Padma, and Hermione, asking them if they wanted to go to a popular night club in New York City: the Avalon Night Club. He had arranged everything, and they were going to meet outside the club later that evening around eight o'clock. Harry called Hermione last, for he decided to invite her after he had called everyone else.
Since Hermione didn't exactly know where the club was, Harry told her he would come by and get her. Dressed in pair of black dress pants, a white dress shirt, dress shoes, and a dress jacket, Harry rang her doorbell around 7:30 p.m. Harry was surprised when a man answered the door, presumably Hermione's father.
"Ah, you must be Harry Potter," he said as he offered his hand to Harry. "I'm Hermione's dad."
"It's nice to meet you, sir," Harry replied as he shook Mr. Granger's hand.
"Hermione, your dates here!" Mr. Granger called. Harry's face started to get red, but Mr. Granger didn't notice. Hermione appeared at the door a second later, wearing a short black dress that looked very snazzy.
"Dad, quit embarrassing Harry," she said as she grabbed her purse and jacket. Hermione led Harry back into the hallway quickly.
"You kids have fun now!" Mr. Granger called as Harry and Hermione got into the elevator. The doors closed behind them, and slowly began to descend.
"I'm sorry about that," Hermione muttered.
"Don't be. It's perfectly okay. You look really nice tonight, by the way," Harry said with a smile.
"Thanks," Hermione replied as she blushed. "So do you."
The elevator opened when it stopped on the first floor. Harry and Hermione left the building and were luckily able to hail a taxi, which quickly drove off in the direction of the club.
"So what kind of club is it?" Hermione asked.
"Well, the Avalon is a night club that has a huge dance floor, a small intimate lounge, and a bar."
"But don't we have to be 21 to get in?"
"Unfortunately, we do," Harry said.
"Then how are we going to get in?" Hermione asked.
"Luckily for us, my father has been good friends for over twenty years with the owners, Mr. Adelman and Mr. Lyons. The bouncer knows me, so he will let us in," Harry explained.
*--------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------*
She watched her watch tick by. "He'll be here soon," Padma said to Cho, who was getting impatient.
Cho sighed softly. "I wonder what he is doing that is taking him so long to get here. The line is getting longer."
"Cho, you should know by now that the bouncer will let us in immediately once Harry gets here," Ron said as he was beginning to get slightly annoyed.
"So Harry only invited the three of us?" Padma asked.
"It sounded like it over the phone," Ron said.
"I'm surprised that Harry didn't invite Hermione," Padma cooed.
"Well, he could have," Ron replied.
Hearing those words, Cho suddenly snapped. "Why would you be surprised that he didn't invite her? Why?" Cho demanded forcefully.
Padma's eyes widened. "Calm down. Damn. What is wrong with you? I only figured that he would invite her because she's a good friend to all of us."
Cho sighed softly, covering her face with her hands. "I'm sorry you guys. I'm just really stressed out right now. Maybe that term paper we have to do is starting to get to me."
"Or something else," Ron muttered to Padma.
"What did you just say?" Cho asked, the anger coming back to her with fire in her eyes.
"Nothing," Ron quickly said as he shielded himself by standing behind Padma.
"Hey, here comes a taxi. Maybe it will be Harry," Padma said.
Cho turned. A yellow taxi slowly pulled up and stopped at the curb. The door opened, and Harry stepped out on to the sidewalk. Cho smiled when she saw him. But she immediately lost that smile when he turned and helped Hermione out. Anger burned inside her, and jealousy even managed to creep in. Hermione was wearing a better dress!
"Hey!" Ron and Padma called, looking surprised to see Hermione. The taxi pulled away as Harry and Hermione joined them.
"Shall we?" Harry said, gesturing them towards the door.
Cho hung back as Ron, Padma, and Hermione strolled up to the bouncer.
"Why is she here?" Cho asked Harry quietly.
"I invited her," Harry replied.
"Why? I thought it was just going to be the four of us."
"It was, but I thought it would be nice to invite her, because she is our friend, Cho."
"Yes, and you are supposed to be MY boyfriend, but that doesn't stop you from spending more time with her. Whenever Hermione is around, it doesn't matter if I am."
"Yes it does."
"No, it doesn't. It's like this, Harry. Hermione and I are both standing center stage, and you are the one who decides which person to shine the spotlight on," Cho said.
Harry sighed softly. "I have chosen, and you are my star. There is nothing going on between Hermione and I."
"Well, I hope you can prove it to me," Cho whispered.
"I will. Come on, let's go in," Harry said before he gently kissed her.
"Welcome, Mr. Potter and guests," the bouncer said as he opened the door.
"Thanks, Jeff," Harry said.
As Harry entered the club with his friends, he thought back to what he had just said to Cho. He had told her that there was nothing going on with Hermione. But even as he thought about it, he knew inside that something was brewing. Maybe that was what Ron was talking about. Harry would have to realize whom he really had feelings for before it tore him apart.
*--------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------*
"Your defeat in court yesterday was disastrous, Lucius. It is starting to humiliate our firm," a deep voice boomed.
"I'm sorry, sir," Lucius Malfoy groveled.
Lucius Malfoy stood alone in a dark office, except for the man who sat in the tall chair behind a large wooden desk, whose back was to him.
"Lucius, who was it who beat you and won your case?" the voice asked.
Malfoy swallowed the lump in his throat. "Potter, sir."
"Which one?"
"Excuse me, sir?" Malfoy asked.
"James or Lily Potter?"
"Lily Potter, sir."
"Ah, the Potters. How they hurt our firm so. But no matter, they won't be a problem much longer."
"Yes, Mr. Riddle, they won't."
*--------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------*
The music was booming loudly. The strobe lights were going crazy, flashing colored light all around the club, mainly on the dance floor where people were jamming to the music. Harry sat with his friends in a large booth in the lounge area, relaxing while enjoying the beat of the music and their drinks. They had been sitting there for nearly an hour, just sitting and talking. Harry sat next to Cho on one side, with Ron, Padma, and Hermione sitting on the other. Not much conversation was taking place, but when it did, Harry and Hermione carried it most of the time. Ron and Padma didn't mind joining in, but Cho still looked irritated that Hermione was there, despite her talk with Harry.
"And then even after I told Harry not to push the button, he still did," Ron said.
"Then what happened?" Hermione asked.
"The door shot off of it hinges and knocked everything over in its path. We didn't stick around. We bolted right afterward."
Hermione laughed lightly.
Harry leaned forward. "You will hear this among many other stories over and over again."
"Wait until you hear the story about when Harry was hanging from his balcony by his underwear, Hermione," Ron said before laughing loudly. Hermione's face turned red.
Harry coughed into his drink. "No one will ever here that story because it is not only embarrassing for me, but it is also embarrassing for you, my friend."
"Yeah, I think I saw a part of Harry that I really didn't want to see," Ron commented.
Everyone laughed together, even Cho.
"Well, Ron, it would have been nice for me to not see you get drunk and flash the female taxi driver," Harry retorted.
Padma suddenly glared at Ron. "It was only one quick flash, I was drunk, and it was before we were going out," Ron quickly explained.
"Good. Hopefully I will get a private flashing later," Padma said with a devious smile.
"Please end the conversation right there," Cho said, causing everyone to laugh. "Well, I'll be right back. I'm going to head towards the bathroom before the line gets too long." Cho left the booth and made her way off to the bathroom.
Just as she left, a song came on that had a really slow beat to it. "Oh, this is such a good song. Come on!" Padma cried as she dragged Ron, Harry, and Hermione out on to the dance floor. Ron and Padma immediately began to dance, slowly grinding against each other. Harry and Hermione looked at each other awkwardly at first, but slowly came closer, deciding to get over the weird feeling and dance together while the music played.
My face to the sky
Dreaming about just how high I could go and I'll know When I finally get there.
Taking off my glasses Sun pokes through my lashes And some how I know There's a time for every star to shine.
Hermione turned her back to Harry as they continued to grind. Their wastes were pressed against each other, causing friction with every slow grind.
Everybody got their something
Everybody got their something Make you smile like an itty bitty child.
People keeping score Say better hurry up and get yours Cause somebody else has got your spot Before you even drop
Seek and you shall find Everything in your own sweet time I'll take my chances With what I believe is only mine
Busy holding on So the roof don't fly Keep you from moving on So get it right Turn the tide over Like a love song Like a butterfly Believe if you hand it over You'll come out all right.
Everybody got their something Everybody got their something Make you smile like an itty bitty child.
About this time, Cho came out of the bathroom and stopped abruptly. Before her, she could see Harry and Hermione dancing, their bodies very close together.
Illuminate the silly things
Shed some light on all that's wrong Everybody needs it sometime Sometimes the only thing you got Is what makes you feel like You're something else altogether You have everything, don't need Another reason to be something I've been on a ride And caught up in the land slide But I'm gonna spread my wings and fly...
Everybody got their something Everybody got their something Make you smile, like an itty bitty child
There's a time for every star...
There's a time for every star...
The song slowly ended, the music echoing on the walls as it faded. Hermione turned back to Harry. They both smiled lightly, but didn't get the chance to talk because Ron and Padma pulled them back over to their booth in the lounge. Cho was waiting there, slowly sipping her drink.
"Have fun?" she asked as they all sat down in their original seats.
"Hell yes we did," Padma replied, grinning. "How did you move like that, Hermione? Hopefully sometime you can teach me."
Hermione's cheeks tinged red.
Harry yawned softly. "Tired?" Cho asked.
"Yeah, I think I am."
"But we've only been here for three hours," Ron protested.
"I have to get up early tomorrow though," Harry said.
"Why?" Ron asked.
"My parents and I are going up state to see my grandparents."
"Well, if you're going, I think I'll head home too, if you can spare time to take me home that is," Hermione said.
"Sure, I have the time," Harry replied.
Cho quickly stood with them. "I'll come too, because I don't feel like staying out late tonight."
"And 11:30 isn't late?" Ron asked sarcastically. Cho simply glared at him.
"We're going to stay for a little while longer, so good night," Padma said as Harry, Hermione, and Cho left the club. Out on the street, they caught a taxi, which quickly took them back to Hermione's building.
They walked her up, and then proceeded to walk across town to get Cho home safely. Harry had wanted to take the subway rail system, but Cho insisted on walking. They were halfway across town when she began to speak.
"Harry, I...I can't do this anymore."
He turned his head to the side and looked at her. "What do you mean?" he asked.
"I can't be your girlfriend anymore."
"What!? Why?"
"I saw the way you danced with her, Harry. You have never danced like that before with me. And the way you looked at her when that song ended...your smile told me all I need to know, Harry."
"Don't do this, Cho. I thought everything was going to be alright."
"I thought it was too, Harry. But I can't do this anymore. I can't kiss you one more time without wondering if you would be wishing that you were kissing her. I could never make love to you if I thought that you would be picturing her or wishing that it was Hermione and not me," Cho explained slowly, tears forming in her eyes.
Harry looked at the ground as they approached her apartment building.
"I always thought that I would be the one who you would finally fall in love with. But when I look at you, I can see in your eyes how you really feel. You really do like her, Harry, and I don't want to keep you from being happy. Even if it causes me pain."
"But you make me happy, Cho," Harry whispered.
"Hermione can give you so many things I can't."
"Like what?" Harry asked.
"You know what, Harry. Her brains, her beauty, and all of the things you have in common," Cho said.
Harry stayed silent. "What can I do to have you still be my girl?"
Cho looked him in the eyes. "Look me back in the eyes, and if you can honestly tell me that you have no feelings for Hermione, then I will still be your girl. If you can't, then you know what to do."
Harry looked into her eyes and opened his mouth to speak, but he just couldn't bring himself to get the words to come out.
A few tears slipped down Cho's cheek. "Goodbye, Harry," she gently whispered before turning and heading inside, leaving him by himself outside.
It was over, and Ron had been correct in warning Harry. Somehow, Ron knew that this would happen, and Harry was amazed by it as he walked home, also feeling terrible by what had happened. He went straight to his room when he finally got home, and went straight to bed, lying underneath the sheets in his boxers.
Before this night, Harry's thoughts were clouded and confused, but now that he was no longer with Cho, his mind had become clear. He was able to think about Hermione clearly, and he knew exactly what to do.
Authors' Notes: Nikki Costa sings the song that was in this Chapter. I don't own her or the song, so no getting angry with me. If you wish to here the song, download it off the net or by the Radio Sunnydale soundtrack cd.
*Chapter 3: Avalon*
When Harry arrived at school Monday morning, he was greatly surprised by what was going on. Several police cars were parked out in front of the school with news trucks too.
"What's going on?" he asked as he found Ron and Padma together on the steps of the school.
"You didn't hear?" Ron asked with a bewildered look on his face. Harry shook his head. "Neville Longbottom's parents were killed this weekend."
"Poor Neville," Padma whispered as she wiped a few tears away. "I hope he's alright."
"How did it happen?" Harry asked.
"I don't know, but they were shot. I guess it happened late Saturday afternoon. Neville was out, and came home to find his father's body, and the police found his mother's a few hours later in a dark alley," Ron explained.
"Where is Neville now?" Harry asked.
"I think he was taken to his grandma's," Padma mumbled.
"But why are all of the police here?" Ron questioned. Harry and Padma shrugged their shoulders lightly.
"Son of a bitch. Quick, let's go before 'the mouth' gets over here," Ron said. Unfortunately, it was too late, for 'the Mouth' quickly walked up.
"Good morning, you three. How would you like to be interviewed for this evenings news?" Rita Skeeter asked. She had a microphone in her hand, and a cameraman just behind her.
"Wow. You actually have the time to interview us? I guess you're finally taking a break from ruining people's lives," Harry said with a glare.
"Now, now, Mr. Potter. We both know that it isn't my fault that people can't keep secrets buried, and reporting them is my job."
"Whatever," he said as he turned and walked up the steps to the school.
Rita Skeeter glared at his back. "Turn the camera on, Kenny." She quickly raced up the steps, calling out to Harry, Ron, and Padma as they neared the front doors. "How does it feel to know one of your friends' parents were brutally murdered?" she called.
"I don't know. How does it feel to be a fucking ugly bitch with a lame ass television show?" Ron snapped. Students around them roared with laughter. The three quickly entered the school, leaving Rita Skeeter to retreat to her news van in a hurry.
"God, I hate her," Padma said as she opened her locker.
"Don't we all," Harry muttered as he pulled out his Chemistry books.
"Talking about Rita Skeeter again?" Cho asked as she approached.
"Bingo," Ron said as he slammed his locker shut, his Chemistry books in his right hand.
"She's stirring up trouble again, this time with the murder of Neville's parents," Padma whispered in a sullen tone.
"I heard about it this morning," Cho breathed out. "I feel so horrible."
"I know that we really shouldn't be happy at this time, but I have to talk to you," Padma said as a small smile spread across her face. Harry saw Ron blush lightly as he quickly buried his face in his Chemistry book. Cho and Padma left them quickly, heading towards their first period class.
"What was that about?" Harry asked as he and Ron strolled down the hallway.
"Nothing," Ron quickly mumbled, getting ready to change the subject.
Harry opened his mouth to try to get the truth out of his best friend when someone called out his name from behind. Both he and Ron turned, and Ron caught the rare smile that appeared on Harry's face. He usually only saw this face when Harry devastatingly defeated Malfoy in a tennis match. A girl that Ron had never seen before approached, but Ron concluded that Harry knew her from his huge smile.
"Hey, Hermione," Harry said softly as she approached.
"Hi, Harry," she said. She looked at Ron and smiled to him as well. "Hello."
"Oh, forgive me. Hermione, this is my best friend, Ron Weasley. Ron, this is Hermione Granger," Harry said, introducing them.
"It's nice to meet you," Hermione said as she shook his hand.
"Likewise," Ron replied.
"Hermione and Cho used to be good friends when they lived in Boston." Harry opened his mouth to say more, but the bell rang and Mr. Laene quickly ushered them inside. Harry and Ron sat on the stools at their lab table, while Hermione was ushered to the front to talk with the professor. Without being told to, all students began to work on their experiments. Harry and Ron carefully mixed their solution together, making sure they made no mistakes.
"So, who is she?" Ron asked quietly.
"You know who she is, Ron."
"Yes, but what is her story?"
"She used to live in Boston, and she was good friends with Cho. Hermione and her family just moved in this weekend and Cho and I took her with us to Barnes and Nobles on Saturday," Harry explained.
"Except Cho didn't go with you."
"How did you know?"
"Harry, Cho may be bright, but we both know she doesn't like to read much. Too many books scare her," Ron chuckled.
Harry smirked. "Speaking of Saturday, how did your date go?"
Ron's face flushed red, and he quickly turned away to gather the steel wool ball that they would need next for the experiment.
"Well? What happened?" Harry asked as he took the steel wool ball from Ron.
"Well, I took Padma to dinner. She loved the necklace, and then we went back to my place, since my parents weren't home."
Harry blinked. "Did you have sex?" Harry asked quietly, as if he was whispering. Harry didn't need an answer, because Ron's face once again turned red. Harry laughed, gathering a few looks from the other students.
"Well what were you two doing Sunday morning? I tried to call you."
"Oh, well Padma and I got up early yesterday morning and went to breakfast. I took her home afterwards," Ron explained.
"Hand me the stirring stick," Harry commanded after he dropped the steel wool ball into the solution contained in the Erlenmeyer flask. Ron passed him the small stick, and Harry began to stir the contents around.
Up at the front desk, Hermione was still talking to their chemistry professor as he handed her a book for the class. Harry smiled softly.
"Earth to Harry!" Ron said, waving his hand in front of Harry's face. Harry quickly stopped daydreaming.
"What?" he asked, rather loudly.
"You can stop stirring now," Ron said, pointing at the flask. Harry looked down. The steel wool ball had been broken up in to particles, so he removed the stick and ceased stirring.
"You like her," Ron whispered as he scooted his stool closer.
"What? No, I don't," Harry replied after slightly hesitating.
"Then what is it? Why are you acting different?"
Harry sighed. "I don't know what's going on, Ron. I just met her two days ago, and I enjoy being around her though I hardly know her. When I think or see her, I can't keep myself from smiling," Harry explained slowly, managing to not hide his smile.
"So you have a crush on her?' Ron asked.
"I don't know."
A moment of silence passed, in which Harry and Ron cleaned up their lab table, placing their flasks on the side. Ron opened his mouth and asked Harry a question that completely caught him off-guard. "Are you going to break up with Cho?"
Harry stuttered for a moment before finally regaining his voice. "No. Why would you even ask that?"
Ron sighed softly and picked up his books. "What I see is obvious to me, Harry. Hopefully you will see it and accept it before it lands you in trouble."
The bell rang, and Ron quickly left the classroom. Harry was left there by himself until Hermione approached him.
"Are you coming?" she asked.
"Yes, I am." Harry stood and picked up his books. "So, what class you have next?"
"French IV with Madame Mosner."
"Tu aimes Francais?" Harry asked with a small smirk.
"Oui. Do you have that class next too?" Hermione asked.
"Yes, I do. You're in luck because there is an empty seat in front of me."
"Oh, and I'll be happy to sit there," Hermione grinned.
*--------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------*
Monday flew by and so did the rest of the week. The weekend came and went, taking the next week with it. By then, Hermione had become close with everyone, especially Harry. To Cho's discontent, he would often do things with Hermione. Plus, Hermione was in all of Harry's classes, except for two of them. She was always around at lunch, and Cho was almost sick of Hermione after her first week there. But Cho never told anyone about her feelings. She didn't even tell Padma, because Hermione had grown on her too.
As for Harry, he didn't think about what Ron had said the previous week. He figured that he would find out eventually like Ron said he would. Harry just hoped that what Ron meant wasn't a serious problem.
*--------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------*
Friday night roared to life once the sun went down. Offices were emptied, and the clubs began to fill up.
Around three o'clock in the afternoon, Harry had called Cho, Ron, Padma, and Hermione, asking them if they wanted to go to a popular night club in New York City: the Avalon Night Club. He had arranged everything, and they were going to meet outside the club later that evening around eight o'clock. Harry called Hermione last, for he decided to invite her after he had called everyone else.
Since Hermione didn't exactly know where the club was, Harry told her he would come by and get her. Dressed in pair of black dress pants, a white dress shirt, dress shoes, and a dress jacket, Harry rang her doorbell around 7:30 p.m. Harry was surprised when a man answered the door, presumably Hermione's father.
"Ah, you must be Harry Potter," he said as he offered his hand to Harry. "I'm Hermione's dad."
"It's nice to meet you, sir," Harry replied as he shook Mr. Granger's hand.
"Hermione, your dates here!" Mr. Granger called. Harry's face started to get red, but Mr. Granger didn't notice. Hermione appeared at the door a second later, wearing a short black dress that looked very snazzy.
"Dad, quit embarrassing Harry," she said as she grabbed her purse and jacket. Hermione led Harry back into the hallway quickly.
"You kids have fun now!" Mr. Granger called as Harry and Hermione got into the elevator. The doors closed behind them, and slowly began to descend.
"I'm sorry about that," Hermione muttered.
"Don't be. It's perfectly okay. You look really nice tonight, by the way," Harry said with a smile.
"Thanks," Hermione replied as she blushed. "So do you."
The elevator opened when it stopped on the first floor. Harry and Hermione left the building and were luckily able to hail a taxi, which quickly drove off in the direction of the club.
"So what kind of club is it?" Hermione asked.
"Well, the Avalon is a night club that has a huge dance floor, a small intimate lounge, and a bar."
"But don't we have to be 21 to get in?"
"Unfortunately, we do," Harry said.
"Then how are we going to get in?" Hermione asked.
"Luckily for us, my father has been good friends for over twenty years with the owners, Mr. Adelman and Mr. Lyons. The bouncer knows me, so he will let us in," Harry explained.
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She watched her watch tick by. "He'll be here soon," Padma said to Cho, who was getting impatient.
Cho sighed softly. "I wonder what he is doing that is taking him so long to get here. The line is getting longer."
"Cho, you should know by now that the bouncer will let us in immediately once Harry gets here," Ron said as he was beginning to get slightly annoyed.
"So Harry only invited the three of us?" Padma asked.
"It sounded like it over the phone," Ron said.
"I'm surprised that Harry didn't invite Hermione," Padma cooed.
"Well, he could have," Ron replied.
Hearing those words, Cho suddenly snapped. "Why would you be surprised that he didn't invite her? Why?" Cho demanded forcefully.
Padma's eyes widened. "Calm down. Damn. What is wrong with you? I only figured that he would invite her because she's a good friend to all of us."
Cho sighed softly, covering her face with her hands. "I'm sorry you guys. I'm just really stressed out right now. Maybe that term paper we have to do is starting to get to me."
"Or something else," Ron muttered to Padma.
"What did you just say?" Cho asked, the anger coming back to her with fire in her eyes.
"Nothing," Ron quickly said as he shielded himself by standing behind Padma.
"Hey, here comes a taxi. Maybe it will be Harry," Padma said.
Cho turned. A yellow taxi slowly pulled up and stopped at the curb. The door opened, and Harry stepped out on to the sidewalk. Cho smiled when she saw him. But she immediately lost that smile when he turned and helped Hermione out. Anger burned inside her, and jealousy even managed to creep in. Hermione was wearing a better dress!
"Hey!" Ron and Padma called, looking surprised to see Hermione. The taxi pulled away as Harry and Hermione joined them.
"Shall we?" Harry said, gesturing them towards the door.
Cho hung back as Ron, Padma, and Hermione strolled up to the bouncer.
"Why is she here?" Cho asked Harry quietly.
"I invited her," Harry replied.
"Why? I thought it was just going to be the four of us."
"It was, but I thought it would be nice to invite her, because she is our friend, Cho."
"Yes, and you are supposed to be MY boyfriend, but that doesn't stop you from spending more time with her. Whenever Hermione is around, it doesn't matter if I am."
"Yes it does."
"No, it doesn't. It's like this, Harry. Hermione and I are both standing center stage, and you are the one who decides which person to shine the spotlight on," Cho said.
Harry sighed softly. "I have chosen, and you are my star. There is nothing going on between Hermione and I."
"Well, I hope you can prove it to me," Cho whispered.
"I will. Come on, let's go in," Harry said before he gently kissed her.
"Welcome, Mr. Potter and guests," the bouncer said as he opened the door.
"Thanks, Jeff," Harry said.
As Harry entered the club with his friends, he thought back to what he had just said to Cho. He had told her that there was nothing going on with Hermione. But even as he thought about it, he knew inside that something was brewing. Maybe that was what Ron was talking about. Harry would have to realize whom he really had feelings for before it tore him apart.
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"Your defeat in court yesterday was disastrous, Lucius. It is starting to humiliate our firm," a deep voice boomed.
"I'm sorry, sir," Lucius Malfoy groveled.
Lucius Malfoy stood alone in a dark office, except for the man who sat in the tall chair behind a large wooden desk, whose back was to him.
"Lucius, who was it who beat you and won your case?" the voice asked.
Malfoy swallowed the lump in his throat. "Potter, sir."
"Which one?"
"Excuse me, sir?" Malfoy asked.
"James or Lily Potter?"
"Lily Potter, sir."
"Ah, the Potters. How they hurt our firm so. But no matter, they won't be a problem much longer."
"Yes, Mr. Riddle, they won't."
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The music was booming loudly. The strobe lights were going crazy, flashing colored light all around the club, mainly on the dance floor where people were jamming to the music. Harry sat with his friends in a large booth in the lounge area, relaxing while enjoying the beat of the music and their drinks. They had been sitting there for nearly an hour, just sitting and talking. Harry sat next to Cho on one side, with Ron, Padma, and Hermione sitting on the other. Not much conversation was taking place, but when it did, Harry and Hermione carried it most of the time. Ron and Padma didn't mind joining in, but Cho still looked irritated that Hermione was there, despite her talk with Harry.
"And then even after I told Harry not to push the button, he still did," Ron said.
"Then what happened?" Hermione asked.
"The door shot off of it hinges and knocked everything over in its path. We didn't stick around. We bolted right afterward."
Hermione laughed lightly.
Harry leaned forward. "You will hear this among many other stories over and over again."
"Wait until you hear the story about when Harry was hanging from his balcony by his underwear, Hermione," Ron said before laughing loudly. Hermione's face turned red.
Harry coughed into his drink. "No one will ever here that story because it is not only embarrassing for me, but it is also embarrassing for you, my friend."
"Yeah, I think I saw a part of Harry that I really didn't want to see," Ron commented.
Everyone laughed together, even Cho.
"Well, Ron, it would have been nice for me to not see you get drunk and flash the female taxi driver," Harry retorted.
Padma suddenly glared at Ron. "It was only one quick flash, I was drunk, and it was before we were going out," Ron quickly explained.
"Good. Hopefully I will get a private flashing later," Padma said with a devious smile.
"Please end the conversation right there," Cho said, causing everyone to laugh. "Well, I'll be right back. I'm going to head towards the bathroom before the line gets too long." Cho left the booth and made her way off to the bathroom.
Just as she left, a song came on that had a really slow beat to it. "Oh, this is such a good song. Come on!" Padma cried as she dragged Ron, Harry, and Hermione out on to the dance floor. Ron and Padma immediately began to dance, slowly grinding against each other. Harry and Hermione looked at each other awkwardly at first, but slowly came closer, deciding to get over the weird feeling and dance together while the music played.
My face to the sky
Dreaming about just how high I could go and I'll know When I finally get there.
Taking off my glasses Sun pokes through my lashes And some how I know There's a time for every star to shine.
Hermione turned her back to Harry as they continued to grind. Their wastes were pressed against each other, causing friction with every slow grind.
Everybody got their something
Everybody got their something Make you smile like an itty bitty child.
People keeping score Say better hurry up and get yours Cause somebody else has got your spot Before you even drop
Seek and you shall find Everything in your own sweet time I'll take my chances With what I believe is only mine
Busy holding on So the roof don't fly Keep you from moving on So get it right Turn the tide over Like a love song Like a butterfly Believe if you hand it over You'll come out all right.
Everybody got their something Everybody got their something Make you smile like an itty bitty child.
About this time, Cho came out of the bathroom and stopped abruptly. Before her, she could see Harry and Hermione dancing, their bodies very close together.
Illuminate the silly things
Shed some light on all that's wrong Everybody needs it sometime Sometimes the only thing you got Is what makes you feel like You're something else altogether You have everything, don't need Another reason to be something I've been on a ride And caught up in the land slide But I'm gonna spread my wings and fly...
Everybody got their something Everybody got their something Make you smile, like an itty bitty child
There's a time for every star...
There's a time for every star...
The song slowly ended, the music echoing on the walls as it faded. Hermione turned back to Harry. They both smiled lightly, but didn't get the chance to talk because Ron and Padma pulled them back over to their booth in the lounge. Cho was waiting there, slowly sipping her drink.
"Have fun?" she asked as they all sat down in their original seats.
"Hell yes we did," Padma replied, grinning. "How did you move like that, Hermione? Hopefully sometime you can teach me."
Hermione's cheeks tinged red.
Harry yawned softly. "Tired?" Cho asked.
"Yeah, I think I am."
"But we've only been here for three hours," Ron protested.
"I have to get up early tomorrow though," Harry said.
"Why?" Ron asked.
"My parents and I are going up state to see my grandparents."
"Well, if you're going, I think I'll head home too, if you can spare time to take me home that is," Hermione said.
"Sure, I have the time," Harry replied.
Cho quickly stood with them. "I'll come too, because I don't feel like staying out late tonight."
"And 11:30 isn't late?" Ron asked sarcastically. Cho simply glared at him.
"We're going to stay for a little while longer, so good night," Padma said as Harry, Hermione, and Cho left the club. Out on the street, they caught a taxi, which quickly took them back to Hermione's building.
They walked her up, and then proceeded to walk across town to get Cho home safely. Harry had wanted to take the subway rail system, but Cho insisted on walking. They were halfway across town when she began to speak.
"Harry, I...I can't do this anymore."
He turned his head to the side and looked at her. "What do you mean?" he asked.
"I can't be your girlfriend anymore."
"What!? Why?"
"I saw the way you danced with her, Harry. You have never danced like that before with me. And the way you looked at her when that song ended...your smile told me all I need to know, Harry."
"Don't do this, Cho. I thought everything was going to be alright."
"I thought it was too, Harry. But I can't do this anymore. I can't kiss you one more time without wondering if you would be wishing that you were kissing her. I could never make love to you if I thought that you would be picturing her or wishing that it was Hermione and not me," Cho explained slowly, tears forming in her eyes.
Harry looked at the ground as they approached her apartment building.
"I always thought that I would be the one who you would finally fall in love with. But when I look at you, I can see in your eyes how you really feel. You really do like her, Harry, and I don't want to keep you from being happy. Even if it causes me pain."
"But you make me happy, Cho," Harry whispered.
"Hermione can give you so many things I can't."
"Like what?" Harry asked.
"You know what, Harry. Her brains, her beauty, and all of the things you have in common," Cho said.
Harry stayed silent. "What can I do to have you still be my girl?"
Cho looked him in the eyes. "Look me back in the eyes, and if you can honestly tell me that you have no feelings for Hermione, then I will still be your girl. If you can't, then you know what to do."
Harry looked into her eyes and opened his mouth to speak, but he just couldn't bring himself to get the words to come out.
A few tears slipped down Cho's cheek. "Goodbye, Harry," she gently whispered before turning and heading inside, leaving him by himself outside.
It was over, and Ron had been correct in warning Harry. Somehow, Ron knew that this would happen, and Harry was amazed by it as he walked home, also feeling terrible by what had happened. He went straight to his room when he finally got home, and went straight to bed, lying underneath the sheets in his boxers.
Before this night, Harry's thoughts were clouded and confused, but now that he was no longer with Cho, his mind had become clear. He was able to think about Hermione clearly, and he knew exactly what to do.
Authors' Notes: Nikki Costa sings the song that was in this Chapter. I don't own her or the song, so no getting angry with me. If you wish to here the song, download it off the net or by the Radio Sunnydale soundtrack cd.