Chapter 5: Platform 9 ¾

Harry checked and double checked his trunk. He had packed last night at Lupin's command. Now he was getting ready to travel to Kings Cross for the last time. He was not really looking forward to it. He would miss Hogwarts. He was looking forward to living with Lupin after graduation.

"Harry!" Lupin called from the bottom of the stairs. "Are you ready yet? We need to leave soon."

"Yeah, I'm almost ready. Just give me a sec and I'll be down."

Looking around his room one last time, he said a silent goodbye. But he would be back he acknowledged. Yes, he would be back.

"Come on Hedwig, let's go." He picked up her cage and his trunk. He left the room without a backwards glance.

He hurried down the stairs to where Lupin was waiting for him. He handed Hedwig's cage to Lupin and followed him out the door.

"Are you happy to be going back to school?" Lupin asked on the trip to Kings Cross.

"Yes," Harry smiled, "I am."

Lupin smiled back. "Well, enjoy yourself Harry. Remember, this is your last year."

Harry couldn't think of anything to say to that. So, the rest of the trip was traveled in silence. Neither attempted at a conversation.

They arrived at Kings Cross and Lupin helped Harry with his stuff. They traveled through the barrier together. As early as it was, many witches and wizards occupied the area. Lupin loaded Harry's stuff in an empty compartment and together they stood waiting for the Weasley's and Hermione.

They didn't have to wait long, though, for the latter came through the barrier soon after. Hermione ran up and enfolded Harry in a big hug.

"Hell Hermione," Lupin smiled.

Hermione pulled back and smiled back at him. "Hello. I am so glad to see you both."

"It's good to see you too Hermione," Ron said from behind them.

Hermione spun around and her smile grew even bigger. "Ron!" she said before hugging him and kissing him on the cheek. He touched where she had just kissed him gingerly.

Harry laughed at the scene and the priceless expression on Ron's face. It was one of surprise. But it was quickly replaced with one of confusion and wonder as he gazed at something over Harry's shoulder. "Who is that?"

Harry turned around looking for the person Ron was talking about. He found himself looking at the most beautiful girl he had ever seen. Of course, all he could see was her back. She had long raven black hair that hung wildly down to her waist.

Then, Harry noticed who she was standing with. She was surrounded by a group of 6th and 7th year Slytherins. And the one closest to her, with his arm conveniently wrapped around her shoulders, was none other than Draco Malfoy. Great, just great!

"Another transfer student," Hermione said. "Looks like another one to the dark side," she said with sarcasm.

"Whoever she is, she already has one enemy," Harry said thoughtfully.

"Who?" Hermione and Ron asked in unison.

Harry nodded at the group of Slytherins. "Pansy."

Sure enough, Pansy stood away from the group glaring at the mysterious girl. Draco let his arm slide down until it rested around her waist. Pansy looked as if she would like to commit murder.

"Well, that's one friend she won't be sorry she lost," Hermione said laughing. "I know I wouldn't."

Ron and Harry both laughed. Hermione linked her arms through theirs. "Come on, let's get on the train."

A/N: I know, short. Sorry bout that. It's 6 o'clock in the morning, I'm not functioning properly. Hope you like it though. PLEASE REVIEW!