There For You
Chapter 19: Sleeping Pretty
Author's Note: I know, I know, I've taken forever updating but I a.) had homework, b.) had a lot of dance, c.) was sick a few days, and d.) had some story stuff to figure out. 'What kind of story stuff?' you ask. Well, when I decided to have Draco help out his dad and Voldemort, I didn't think about what would happen to him after it was over such as a punishment from Dumbledore so I have come up with a storyline including him because even if he got detention the rest of the year, it wouldn't prevent him from doing something similar in the future so now I have a partial plan. Even though I said I wouldn't be a doing a seventh year fic and would skip to after Hogwarts, well, I've changed my mind. After this story, there will be another sequel, which will include the summer followed by seventh year where I will have a good wizards versus evil wizards battle, and then another story after that about life after Hogwarts. Yes, this is now a four story series all because of one character. Happy? Well, I hope so. Further explanation of all this will be in next chapter and another in the future. I think this part of the story will end at about chapter 25 or 26, or so far I've planned. Also, will anyone be horribly upset if I don't do review responses for chapter17 even though I said I would? I promise, I won't ever not do them again but it takes so long and it's been so long since last chapter that it seems sort of pointless. Thanks to all of you who reviewed, I love you all and will answer chapter 18 reviews at the end of this chapter. If anyone does really want a 17 response, tell me and I will. Otherwise, I'm not going to worry about it. K, enough of this, on with the show! Er, chapter!
He held her in his arms, desperately trying to wake her unconscious body. She had to wake; she just had to. Her pallid face remained motionless as he rocked her back and forth.
"Ginny," he sobbed. "Ginny, wake up. Please, Ginny, I'm so sorry." Her eyes opened momentarily.
"Ginny!" She reached up to touch his face before she took her last shaky breath, and relaxed into his body, dead in his arms. He stared at her horrorstruck.
"NO! No, Ginny, wake up! You can't die, you can't! Ginny, no, no!"
Harry jerked up to a sitting position, drenched with sweat, breathing like he'd just run to Surrey and back. He looked around anxiously but everything was blurry. He felt around the table beside the bed for his glasses, nearly falling off in the process. As the world came into focus he heard a toilet flush and watched Ron walk out of the lavatory across from him.
"Alright Harry? Heard you moaning in here." Harry looked to the bed on his right where Ginny lay sleeping peacefully. His breathing slowed and he wiped the perspiration from his forehead with his sheet.
"Yeah," he croaked out. "Damn nightmares."
"Not a vision?" Ron asked as he sat to put on his trainers.
"No, a nightmare."
"About Voldemort?" Harry untangled himself from his blankets and stood up.
"No, about Ginny when we were in that room upstairs. She died in my dream though."
"Yeah, I understand. Lucky her with her dreamless sleeping potion," he said bitterly, pointing at Ginny.
"Where're you going?"
"Hospital. You know, I've got a girlfriend in a coma there. Thought I might visit her." He was obviously in a very bad mood.
"Right. How're you getting there?"
"Pomfrey said she'd make a portkey for me that goes from here to the hospital so I can leave when visiting hours are over tonight. Imagine I'll be the most hated one in there by those bloody nurses."
"Yeah, probably."
"Thanks, mate, love you too," he said, his mood softening.
"Hey, you said it first. So, are you alright?" Ron shrugged.
"I dunno. I want to see her but not like that, you know. Just sitting there watching her sleep not knowing when she'll wake is going to be horrible. Just...what if she doesn't wake up? What if she just stays in the coma and the Healers say there isn't any hope? Makes me feel sick thinking about it."
"So don't. Come on, we talked about this last night. Hermione is strong. She's made of more than that. She's going to wake up, mark my words. I give it a week or two at most."
"Dumbledore won't let me skip that many days of classes though," he sighed. "He said the next couple of days only."
"Well, we'll just hope she's awake in a couple of days then." The door to Madame Pomfrey's room opened then and she walked out. He stood up as she came toward him, a red stiletto shoe in her right hand.
"This is your portkey," she said handing it to him. He cocked an eyebrow at her.
"This? Where did this come from?"
"Never you mind. Just be glad I'm giving you a portkey at all. I pity the poor nurses who will have to deal with your presence all day. Now, I have set it up so you say either, 'Hogwarts', or 'St. Mungo's', while you are holding it and it will transport you. Don't try going anywhere else as it only works for those two words."
"Where else would I go?" If she narrowed her eyebrows any further they would be obstructing her vision.
"You are expected to return here at nine o'clock tonight. You may eat in the cafeteria on the bottom level of the hospital or take your food to Miss Granger's room. Do not make a mess. Now, any worthwhile questions?"
"Does it have a pair?" he asked, holding up the shoe.
"It is eight o'clock. Leave. Potter, are you ready to eat?" she inquired to Harry, turning her back on Ron. He rolled his eyes and nodded good-bye to Harry.
"St. Mungo's." He landed in the lobby of the hospital. A receptionist with white hair that reminded him of McGonagall with her stern demeanor sat at the desk but she was talking with a patient and didn't notice Ron. He decided to avoid any trouble with her and made his way to Hermione's room. The door was slightly ajar when he reached it but no one was in there besides Hermione. He walked in and pulled up a chair beside her bed. Now that he was there, he didn't know what to do. He could talk to her but he didn't know what to say. Instead, he took her hand and rubbed it softly. Her other hand lay across her abdomen and her head was tilted slightly toward him. He sighed heavily and put his head forward on the bed.
"Excuse me." He sat up and looked to the doorway where a young witch stood with her hand on the doorknob, leaning forward into the room. She was Asian, with long black hair tied back into a low ponytail and dressed in blue scrubs.
"Hello. My name is Mina. I wasn't aware anyone had come in here."
"Oh, sorry. I...well the receptionist was...she was busy so I came up 'cause I knew the way and all," he explained uncomfortably.
"Don't sound so scared," she laughed. "You aren't in trouble." He grinned slightly.
"Oh, okay." She came all the way into the room and shut the door.
"I'm the nurse around here until twelve. So, how do you know Hermione?"
"We're uh, well she's my girlfriend."
"I thought so. You don't look related but you're sure holding her hand tight." He looked at their intertwined fingers and loosened his grip, smiling sheepishly. "What's your name?"
"Oh, sorry, I'm Ron. Ron Weasley."
"Nice to meet you. Are you staying long?"
"All day hopefully."
"Well, if I was here all day I'd be fine with that but," she paused and thought for a moment. "Let's just say some of us aren't that...welcoming toward male visitors being here that long. If you were a Rhonda, you'd be more approved of."
"I expected that."
"Just be nice and stay out of the other nurses ways when they come in. I'll make sure I'm the only one to come in while I'm here though. I can tell you really care about her." He nodded and looked at Hermione sadly.
"She'll be okay, honey. Her parents will be here soon though. Do you know them well?" He shrugged.
"Seen them a few times and said hello but that's about it."
"Do they like you?" Some may have thought all her questioning to be strange and intruding but he didn't mind since he didn't have to sit in silence with Hermione.
"I don't really know. Probably not now."
"It wasn't your fault."
"How do you know? Do you know what happened to us?"
"Not really but how could an encounter with You-Know-Who be your fault?"
"Oh, right. But still, I let her go. I mean, I went too but then I left and she could have died."
"Why did you leave?"
"To save my sister."
"You sound like a hero to me."
"No, I'm not the hero."
"Well, I bet you're her hero." He looked at her. She smiled at him, her eyes twinkling and tucked a piece of hair behind her ear. "So, are you hungry? I can call someone to bring up some food if you'd like."
"Sure, thanks."
"It'll be here in a few minutes then. If you need anything before I leave, just push that button there and I'll come in."
"Thanks, I will." She smiled again and left the room, closing the door softly behind her. He took a breath and decided to go ahead and talk to her.
"Hey Hermione. Hope you're sleeping well. I...well, I miss you a lot. I know it's only been a night but it's different with you like this. Uh, Harry's fine. Well, he acts fine but who knows. Gin's okay too. She has to stay in bed for a while like you but she'll be up and about in no time. I'd really like it if you could get up soon too. Hell, you don't have to be out of bed, just your eyes open would be enough, so I know you know I'm here." Unfortunately, her eyes remained closed, her face unmoved. "Dammit," he muttered. "Look, if you need the time to sleep, fine, I'll wait." He stroked her face with his free hand. "I know you're tired. You went through a lot. I'll be here every day that I can until you've rested up. I'd wait forever for you, you know." A knock on the door interrupted the tears that were about to fall. "Come in."
A short, balding man walked in carrying a tray filled with sandwiches, biscuits, and a couple bottles of butterbeer.
"Hello! Here's the food yeh asked for!" The man smiled widely at Ron as he set the food down on a table beside the wall. Ron's eyes widened slightly as he saw that the man had no more than six teeth spread apart in his mouth.
"Er, thank you."
"I know tisn't lunch time but I don't recommend eatin' the eggs. Or the bacon for that matter. Me wife made the sandwiches though so I know they're safe to eat."
"Right."
"Now don't let me teeth fool yeh! Done some boxin' in me days and also some hockey. I do enjoy muggle sports. Plus, I got quite a sweet tooth but no dentist!" He laughed heartily at this. Ron thought he was mad. "No, no, the wife's cookin' is wonderful! No cause for worry there! Me name's Melvin if yeh decide to come down to the kitchens. Make sure yeh ask fer me sos you don't get anyone else's bad cookin'!"
"Are there many cooks in the kitchens?"
"Three includin' me wife, Arlene. Hers is the only food yeh can truly trust. I don't cook meself. I deliver it! So, if yeh get hungry later, come on down! We're here until eight! Bye laddie!"
"Uh, bye." Melvin waved merrily before exiting the room. Ron shook his head. "What a nutter. Don't let me teeth fool yeh!" he imitated. He looked at the sandwiches suspiciously and picked one up, sniffing it for any strange smells. He opened it up but found it to look quite delicious and bit into hungrily. He sighed with satisfaction. In no time at all, the plate was empty and there was only one butterbeer left. He leaned back in his chair and rubbed his belly.
"See what you're missing, love? Arlene's good cooking!" He groaned, his brightened mood turning back into depression. He had only been there a couple hours and already he as itching to walk around. How was he going to handle this for a week or more? He supposed he could pace around the room. Another knock on the door stopped that thought. Mina's head popped into the room.
"Hi, honey. Her mother and father are here. And apparently your parents as well." She pushed the door open for Mr. and Mrs. Granger to enter followed by Arthur and Molly Weasley. He hadn't expected them to come too. His mother rushed to him immediately and enveloped him in a tight hug.
"How are you doing? Has she moved? Do you need anything? How did you sleep? Goodness, have you showered in the past two days?" He pulled away and frowned.
"What are you two doing here?"
"Someone needed to escort Hermione's parents here," Mr. Weasley said, clapping his son on the shoulder. "They'll be staying in a hotel down the street but needed some help coming in." Ron nodded and turned to the Grangers who were touching Hermione's face, sheets, and hair. Mrs. Granger broke into tears as her husband put a comforting arm around her shoulders.
"Look at her!" she sobbed. "Look at my poor baby! She has bruises all over! Oh, she looks so small and helpless. That's not our girl! She's never been helpless!"
"There, there," Mr. Granger patted her arm.
"Don't worry, the Healers feel she'll awake very soon. They said she may need some help walking around and carrying things but she certainly won't be helpless," Mrs. Weasley said gently.
"I'll help her," Ron said. Mrs. Granger's back stiffened.
"I'm not sure that is a wise idea," she said turning around. "I believe adult assistance would be best. I'm not so sure your place in her life is very helpful at all." Ron frowned. "I'm not trying to say anything against you but it seems Hermione has had nothing but trouble being friends with you and the other boy. Harry is his name?"
"Now, now, I don't think that's quite true," Arthur objected.
"Not true? Hermione has been in danger every year of her life since meeting your son and his friend and now look at her! She's in a coma! She could have died! She shows no common sense around the boys and probably won't until she stops seeing them!"
"Stops seeing us?" Ron exclaimed. "She can't!"
"No she can't,"Arthur said.
"No, not now! Not if the only way to keep her safe according to Professor Dumbledore is to live in the same house as them!"
"Live...live in the same house? What's going on?" Ron asked.
"You, Harry, Ginny, and Hermione are all in danger now, Ron. Dumbledore feels you will all be safest during the summer if you live at Grimmauld Place with us, Professor Lupin, and perhaps others."
"So Harry wouldn't have to go back to the Dursleys? And I could be with them all summer?"
"Yes, that would be best." Ron's mood brightened considerably for the moment.
"We haven't decided if we will allow it though," Mr. Granger snapped. "I'm not so sure it would be safe." Mr. Weasley stayed calm though he obviously was not pleased by their words.
"I assure you, it is the safest place besides Hogwarts. The enemy has seen Hermione and leaving her in the muggle world without magic or protection is much more dangerous." Mrs. Granger threw her hands up in the air.
"All this magic is what's gotten her in danger! If I'd known sending her to Hogwarts would bring all of this I never would have done it! She could have gone to a nice, normal school in England or even abroad and never been burdened with any of this!"
"But your daughter isn't normal! She is a witch and always has been! Letting her be what she was born to be was the best thing you could have done for her. She wanted to come didn't she? She would have hated you for not allowing her to come!" The normally calm and happy Arthur Weasley had lost his temper.
"She would have gotten over it!"
"Well it's too late now! She has lived in this world for five years and I promise you, she loves it! Despite what has happened, I know she wouldn't trade it for anything. She has made the best friends she could-"
"Ha! I'm not so sure!"
"AND, she has become one of the greatest witches Hogwarts has seen! Your daughter is an exceptional witch."
"She won't be if she dies before she's seventeen!"
"The fact of the matter is, Mrs. Granger, your daughter lives in our world. She makes her own choices and you cannot do anything about it. She will live at Grimmauld Place during the summer and return to Hogwarts in September. If you truly want what's best for your daughter, as I know you do, you will leave her in my and Dumbledore's care where she will be safest. You know you are welcome to visit as often as you like during the summer." Mrs. Granger sat heavily in Ron's vacated chair and sobbed into her hands.
"Mr. Weasley, we do want what is best for Hermione. But we find it hard to trust she is safe in the world that has caused her so much pain and injury," Mr. Granger said calmly but anger was still evident in his voice.
"I understand. But this is the best situation for her now. I am just as sorry as you are that she has had these experiences but I assure you, it is nothing compared to some her age. True, it is more than most teens experience but she is strong and handles it all very well. She has developed into such a wonderful woman and we are all very proud of her."
"Yes, she is," Hermione's father agreed though he still sounded doubtful.
"I also know that Hermione will never leave the wizarding world because of my son." Ron's ears reddened as Hermione's parents looked at him closely. "I have no doubt we will be family in the future. If you wish to stay in her life, I'm afraid you will just have to accept it." Mrs. Granger's eyes widened as she studied her daughter.
"She, she has a ring! She can't be engaged already! She's only sixteen! Are you trying to marry her off already?" The Weasleys stared at her left hand, which indeed had a ring on it.
"Ron!" his mother exclaimed.
"It's only a promise ring! We aren't getting married, we aren't even out of school!" Mrs. Weasley's face broke into a smile and tears ran down her cheeks.
"Oh my baby promised himself to someone! Arthur, Ron did what you did!" Arthur chuckled.
"Yes, I see he did." The Grangers seemed ready to explode.
"My daughter is not promised to anyone! She is only a child!" She tried to take the ring off Hermione's finger but recoiled at the touch.
"It burned me! Why did it burn me?!" This caused Mrs. Weasley to weep even harder. Mr. Weasley grinned.
"In the magical world a promise ring means more than it does in the muggle. Since it burned you, it means Ron has given the promise ring to his soul mate, his one true love. The ring will not come off. She will wear it the rest of her life and it will grow with her." Ron stared dumbly at his father.
"You never told me that."
"You never told me you had done it."
"But Hermione took the ring off her right hand and put it on her left. It wasn't stuck on the right one."
"No, it didn't because the right hand is not where a wedding ring goes now is it?"
"You mean...Hermione and I are meant to be?" His father nodded smiling. Ron's heart began to race. No wonder the thought of marrying her always made him happy, never strange or nervous. "Blimey."
"W-what are you talking about? She, she's so young and...a soul mate?" Mrs. Granger put her hand to her forehead. "No, no, it will come off!"
"I assure you, it won't. Ron, go try to remove it. It won't burn you since you were the giver." Ron moved forward to the bed and took Hermione's hand in his. He took hold of the ring and pulled gently but it didn't budge. He tried a few more times to prove it to the Grangers but it stayed on tight.
"Mum, do you have one then?" Mrs. Weasley held out her left hand to show two rings, the promise ring and her wedding ring on the same finger. She pulled on the first one but it too wouldn't move.
"I can't believe it! So now she's stuck? She's hooked to him the rest of her life in this blasted world? I need to leave for a while. I can't handle this now!" Mrs. Granger rushed out of the room, her husband following close behind.
"Bloody Hell," Ron muttered and received a whack in the head from his mother.
"Don't swear. Oh Ron, I had no idea! I'm so happy, dear!" Ron smiled sheepishly.
"Just thought it'd be a nice Christmas present." Mrs. Weasley sighed.
"It was dear, it certainly was!"
"So Hermione's going to live with us during the summer? With Harry!" he exclaimed remembering what his father had said. "Wait, Harry agreed to live in Sirius's house?"
"Well, not yet but he will be speaking with Dumbledore anytime now. He has no other choice in the matter," his father answered.
"Poor bloke." Mrs. Weasley began to cry again.
"Yes, poor Harry! Oh, the dear will be so sad!"
"He'll get through it," Mr. Weasley comforted her. He'll have his friends there with him. Now, we need to get going, Ron. If the Granger's come back today just sit here quietly and don't talk. If not, just stay out of the nurses way and behave yourself."
"Why does everyone think I'm going to bother the nurses?" His father raised an eyebrow at him making him turn slightly red.
"Hmmm Ron, I have no idea why."
"I'm not the twins!"
"No but you get yourself in enough trouble as it is. See you later." His mother hugged him tightly again before leaving him alone with Hermione again. He sat down in the chair and took her left hand, feeling the ring with his thumb.
"We're meant to be, Hermione. Wish you were awake so you could know. Oh well, I'll tell you when you wake up. I had no idea your parents were like that. Your mum looked ready to kill me. Lucky she doesn't have a wand, eh?" He noticed her hair had fallen over her eye from her parents fussing over her. He pushed it behind her ear and stared at her for a second. He remembered a story his mum had told him when he was little about a girl who was asleep and a bloke who'd kissed her to wake her up. Snow Bright? Or was it Sleeping Pretty? Or both? He couldn't remember but thought it was worth a try. But as his lips touched hers, she remained motionless even as he pushed a little harder. He sat back down sadly. It had only been a thought, he hadn't really expected it to work but the hope had still been there.
"You're still my Sleeping Pretty," he whispered.
Author's Note: Lol, Sleeping Pretty. So, you guys kind of know what's happening next fic. Something else will happen next chapter though that talks about the summer for the characters. So, how was it? I know Hermione's parents were pains but I wanted it like that. The meant to be thing came to me while I was writing; I never planned it like that. Ok, there are review responses this time so scroll down for them!
Individuals:
Shortywithbrains: Thank you! Yeah, he is very compassionate. Glad you liked the slap! And Fred and George will be back soon.
Potterweasley: Thanks, glad you liked it! Harry had to come to his senses, I couldn't keep him away from them! Lol, it does seem strange he would think of doing that but I think could. Yeah, I went on for a sec but only to change it back to my name since my friend had used it before. I have;t been on in a really long time cuz every time I do I never get any writing or reading done since I'm talking but I've gone on a couple of times recently. Sorry I missed you though! Lol, I know, it's so easy to procrastinate!
Bellalovesron: Thanks! I'm so glad you liked it so much! I loved the Ron/Harry part too, it was so sad. Sorry it's taken so long to update! Hope you update soon too!
Becca(igneos_banana@hotmail.com): I put your address in there cuz I have another reader named Becca. Anyway, thanks! So that's four people I know from Australia!
Ron's Best Mate: Hey! Thanks for giving me three reviews! Actually, it wasn't a mistake, I think you misunderstood. Pomfrey meant for ALL talking to wait until tomorrow so that Harry and the other two wouldn't be allowed to talk to each other that night. I guess I should have clarified that better, huh? Thanks!
Missprongs: Thank you!
Joots: I know, it's sad about Hermione but she'll be awake soon. Sorry it's taken so long to update! Thanks for being patient!
Mione Weasley: Thank you! I'm glad someone appreciates my chapter titles! I'm glad you liked the chapter. How was this one? And yay! I got someone to cry from the Harry/Ron scene. I almost teared up myself writing it. I could never kill off Hermione! Lol, I love writing Madame Pomfrey! She doesn't have a very big or obvious character in HP so I've made her mean and funny. I'm sure you'll think of something for your fic. I just go along and write what's logical to come next and usually get some sort of storyline to come out of it. Plus, Malfoy made me need another fic to my story so that helped bring out some storylines.
Cheese Diva: I think it was one of my best too, not to brag! Thank you though, I'm glad you liked it so much! Of course, you do this for every chapter! Lol, I'm not complaining though, I love your reviews to no end! I liked the Ron/Harry scene too, almost cried myself. That slap was fun to write too! Glad you liked Pomfrey's line too! I loved making her mean but funny like that. Me too, procrastinating is the best! It brings out your best work!
Loli-chick336: Thanks! Glad you liked Pomfrey's line and the crying...you're right it was like LotR. I didn't mean for that but that's okay!
MilesFromNormal: Oh good, glad to know someone else has the counter! Thank you very much, and don't worry, Hermione'll be fine. Can't tell you what's next though! Sorry!
Magnolia Lane: I totally agree! I hate when boys cry! But I loved writing that scene! At first only Ron was going to talk to him but I thought it'd be too easy so I added Dumbledore. Yeah, I added the no children part but I won't copy you, I promise. I think I already said that though. Yeah, I had to focus on Homework for a bit but I have none this weekend so I'm happy!
Hp/charmed obsessed: That wasn't very soon, was it? Sorry! Hey, by the way, if you go to and look at the second to last question, there's the proof James was in Gryffindor. Sorry if you feel I'm pestering you about that but you were skeptical about it and I read this and remembered your poll and stuff.
Penelope Richmond: Thank you very much!
Becca202: Thanks! Very fuzzy, huh? I don't really know if they can hear you or not. I read about comas a little bit before I put that in but it didn't say if they could or not. Oh lots happens with Draco as I've said. Lol, I liked the slap too!
KrisKG: Thank you! Sorry I didn't update very soon! Glad you liked the slap!
Magicher1: Does that mean good? Hope so!
Duckymander: Thanks! Glad you liked it! Don't worry about updating late. Sooner or later doesn't matter to me!
Puppy Dog Eyes Jr.: Hey! I wondered where you had gone! Sorry you've been through so much! Hope things are better now! Thanks for taking the time to review since you've been so busy! Well, I updated pretty soon after your review, sorry! But everyone has been waiting a long time! Hope you get caught up soon!
Chapter 19: Sleeping Pretty
Author's Note: I know, I know, I've taken forever updating but I a.) had homework, b.) had a lot of dance, c.) was sick a few days, and d.) had some story stuff to figure out. 'What kind of story stuff?' you ask. Well, when I decided to have Draco help out his dad and Voldemort, I didn't think about what would happen to him after it was over such as a punishment from Dumbledore so I have come up with a storyline including him because even if he got detention the rest of the year, it wouldn't prevent him from doing something similar in the future so now I have a partial plan. Even though I said I wouldn't be a doing a seventh year fic and would skip to after Hogwarts, well, I've changed my mind. After this story, there will be another sequel, which will include the summer followed by seventh year where I will have a good wizards versus evil wizards battle, and then another story after that about life after Hogwarts. Yes, this is now a four story series all because of one character. Happy? Well, I hope so. Further explanation of all this will be in next chapter and another in the future. I think this part of the story will end at about chapter 25 or 26, or so far I've planned. Also, will anyone be horribly upset if I don't do review responses for chapter17 even though I said I would? I promise, I won't ever not do them again but it takes so long and it's been so long since last chapter that it seems sort of pointless. Thanks to all of you who reviewed, I love you all and will answer chapter 18 reviews at the end of this chapter. If anyone does really want a 17 response, tell me and I will. Otherwise, I'm not going to worry about it. K, enough of this, on with the show! Er, chapter!
He held her in his arms, desperately trying to wake her unconscious body. She had to wake; she just had to. Her pallid face remained motionless as he rocked her back and forth.
"Ginny," he sobbed. "Ginny, wake up. Please, Ginny, I'm so sorry." Her eyes opened momentarily.
"Ginny!" She reached up to touch his face before she took her last shaky breath, and relaxed into his body, dead in his arms. He stared at her horrorstruck.
"NO! No, Ginny, wake up! You can't die, you can't! Ginny, no, no!"
Harry jerked up to a sitting position, drenched with sweat, breathing like he'd just run to Surrey and back. He looked around anxiously but everything was blurry. He felt around the table beside the bed for his glasses, nearly falling off in the process. As the world came into focus he heard a toilet flush and watched Ron walk out of the lavatory across from him.
"Alright Harry? Heard you moaning in here." Harry looked to the bed on his right where Ginny lay sleeping peacefully. His breathing slowed and he wiped the perspiration from his forehead with his sheet.
"Yeah," he croaked out. "Damn nightmares."
"Not a vision?" Ron asked as he sat to put on his trainers.
"No, a nightmare."
"About Voldemort?" Harry untangled himself from his blankets and stood up.
"No, about Ginny when we were in that room upstairs. She died in my dream though."
"Yeah, I understand. Lucky her with her dreamless sleeping potion," he said bitterly, pointing at Ginny.
"Where're you going?"
"Hospital. You know, I've got a girlfriend in a coma there. Thought I might visit her." He was obviously in a very bad mood.
"Right. How're you getting there?"
"Pomfrey said she'd make a portkey for me that goes from here to the hospital so I can leave when visiting hours are over tonight. Imagine I'll be the most hated one in there by those bloody nurses."
"Yeah, probably."
"Thanks, mate, love you too," he said, his mood softening.
"Hey, you said it first. So, are you alright?" Ron shrugged.
"I dunno. I want to see her but not like that, you know. Just sitting there watching her sleep not knowing when she'll wake is going to be horrible. Just...what if she doesn't wake up? What if she just stays in the coma and the Healers say there isn't any hope? Makes me feel sick thinking about it."
"So don't. Come on, we talked about this last night. Hermione is strong. She's made of more than that. She's going to wake up, mark my words. I give it a week or two at most."
"Dumbledore won't let me skip that many days of classes though," he sighed. "He said the next couple of days only."
"Well, we'll just hope she's awake in a couple of days then." The door to Madame Pomfrey's room opened then and she walked out. He stood up as she came toward him, a red stiletto shoe in her right hand.
"This is your portkey," she said handing it to him. He cocked an eyebrow at her.
"This? Where did this come from?"
"Never you mind. Just be glad I'm giving you a portkey at all. I pity the poor nurses who will have to deal with your presence all day. Now, I have set it up so you say either, 'Hogwarts', or 'St. Mungo's', while you are holding it and it will transport you. Don't try going anywhere else as it only works for those two words."
"Where else would I go?" If she narrowed her eyebrows any further they would be obstructing her vision.
"You are expected to return here at nine o'clock tonight. You may eat in the cafeteria on the bottom level of the hospital or take your food to Miss Granger's room. Do not make a mess. Now, any worthwhile questions?"
"Does it have a pair?" he asked, holding up the shoe.
"It is eight o'clock. Leave. Potter, are you ready to eat?" she inquired to Harry, turning her back on Ron. He rolled his eyes and nodded good-bye to Harry.
"St. Mungo's." He landed in the lobby of the hospital. A receptionist with white hair that reminded him of McGonagall with her stern demeanor sat at the desk but she was talking with a patient and didn't notice Ron. He decided to avoid any trouble with her and made his way to Hermione's room. The door was slightly ajar when he reached it but no one was in there besides Hermione. He walked in and pulled up a chair beside her bed. Now that he was there, he didn't know what to do. He could talk to her but he didn't know what to say. Instead, he took her hand and rubbed it softly. Her other hand lay across her abdomen and her head was tilted slightly toward him. He sighed heavily and put his head forward on the bed.
"Excuse me." He sat up and looked to the doorway where a young witch stood with her hand on the doorknob, leaning forward into the room. She was Asian, with long black hair tied back into a low ponytail and dressed in blue scrubs.
"Hello. My name is Mina. I wasn't aware anyone had come in here."
"Oh, sorry. I...well the receptionist was...she was busy so I came up 'cause I knew the way and all," he explained uncomfortably.
"Don't sound so scared," she laughed. "You aren't in trouble." He grinned slightly.
"Oh, okay." She came all the way into the room and shut the door.
"I'm the nurse around here until twelve. So, how do you know Hermione?"
"We're uh, well she's my girlfriend."
"I thought so. You don't look related but you're sure holding her hand tight." He looked at their intertwined fingers and loosened his grip, smiling sheepishly. "What's your name?"
"Oh, sorry, I'm Ron. Ron Weasley."
"Nice to meet you. Are you staying long?"
"All day hopefully."
"Well, if I was here all day I'd be fine with that but," she paused and thought for a moment. "Let's just say some of us aren't that...welcoming toward male visitors being here that long. If you were a Rhonda, you'd be more approved of."
"I expected that."
"Just be nice and stay out of the other nurses ways when they come in. I'll make sure I'm the only one to come in while I'm here though. I can tell you really care about her." He nodded and looked at Hermione sadly.
"She'll be okay, honey. Her parents will be here soon though. Do you know them well?" He shrugged.
"Seen them a few times and said hello but that's about it."
"Do they like you?" Some may have thought all her questioning to be strange and intruding but he didn't mind since he didn't have to sit in silence with Hermione.
"I don't really know. Probably not now."
"It wasn't your fault."
"How do you know? Do you know what happened to us?"
"Not really but how could an encounter with You-Know-Who be your fault?"
"Oh, right. But still, I let her go. I mean, I went too but then I left and she could have died."
"Why did you leave?"
"To save my sister."
"You sound like a hero to me."
"No, I'm not the hero."
"Well, I bet you're her hero." He looked at her. She smiled at him, her eyes twinkling and tucked a piece of hair behind her ear. "So, are you hungry? I can call someone to bring up some food if you'd like."
"Sure, thanks."
"It'll be here in a few minutes then. If you need anything before I leave, just push that button there and I'll come in."
"Thanks, I will." She smiled again and left the room, closing the door softly behind her. He took a breath and decided to go ahead and talk to her.
"Hey Hermione. Hope you're sleeping well. I...well, I miss you a lot. I know it's only been a night but it's different with you like this. Uh, Harry's fine. Well, he acts fine but who knows. Gin's okay too. She has to stay in bed for a while like you but she'll be up and about in no time. I'd really like it if you could get up soon too. Hell, you don't have to be out of bed, just your eyes open would be enough, so I know you know I'm here." Unfortunately, her eyes remained closed, her face unmoved. "Dammit," he muttered. "Look, if you need the time to sleep, fine, I'll wait." He stroked her face with his free hand. "I know you're tired. You went through a lot. I'll be here every day that I can until you've rested up. I'd wait forever for you, you know." A knock on the door interrupted the tears that were about to fall. "Come in."
A short, balding man walked in carrying a tray filled with sandwiches, biscuits, and a couple bottles of butterbeer.
"Hello! Here's the food yeh asked for!" The man smiled widely at Ron as he set the food down on a table beside the wall. Ron's eyes widened slightly as he saw that the man had no more than six teeth spread apart in his mouth.
"Er, thank you."
"I know tisn't lunch time but I don't recommend eatin' the eggs. Or the bacon for that matter. Me wife made the sandwiches though so I know they're safe to eat."
"Right."
"Now don't let me teeth fool yeh! Done some boxin' in me days and also some hockey. I do enjoy muggle sports. Plus, I got quite a sweet tooth but no dentist!" He laughed heartily at this. Ron thought he was mad. "No, no, the wife's cookin' is wonderful! No cause for worry there! Me name's Melvin if yeh decide to come down to the kitchens. Make sure yeh ask fer me sos you don't get anyone else's bad cookin'!"
"Are there many cooks in the kitchens?"
"Three includin' me wife, Arlene. Hers is the only food yeh can truly trust. I don't cook meself. I deliver it! So, if yeh get hungry later, come on down! We're here until eight! Bye laddie!"
"Uh, bye." Melvin waved merrily before exiting the room. Ron shook his head. "What a nutter. Don't let me teeth fool yeh!" he imitated. He looked at the sandwiches suspiciously and picked one up, sniffing it for any strange smells. He opened it up but found it to look quite delicious and bit into hungrily. He sighed with satisfaction. In no time at all, the plate was empty and there was only one butterbeer left. He leaned back in his chair and rubbed his belly.
"See what you're missing, love? Arlene's good cooking!" He groaned, his brightened mood turning back into depression. He had only been there a couple hours and already he as itching to walk around. How was he going to handle this for a week or more? He supposed he could pace around the room. Another knock on the door stopped that thought. Mina's head popped into the room.
"Hi, honey. Her mother and father are here. And apparently your parents as well." She pushed the door open for Mr. and Mrs. Granger to enter followed by Arthur and Molly Weasley. He hadn't expected them to come too. His mother rushed to him immediately and enveloped him in a tight hug.
"How are you doing? Has she moved? Do you need anything? How did you sleep? Goodness, have you showered in the past two days?" He pulled away and frowned.
"What are you two doing here?"
"Someone needed to escort Hermione's parents here," Mr. Weasley said, clapping his son on the shoulder. "They'll be staying in a hotel down the street but needed some help coming in." Ron nodded and turned to the Grangers who were touching Hermione's face, sheets, and hair. Mrs. Granger broke into tears as her husband put a comforting arm around her shoulders.
"Look at her!" she sobbed. "Look at my poor baby! She has bruises all over! Oh, she looks so small and helpless. That's not our girl! She's never been helpless!"
"There, there," Mr. Granger patted her arm.
"Don't worry, the Healers feel she'll awake very soon. They said she may need some help walking around and carrying things but she certainly won't be helpless," Mrs. Weasley said gently.
"I'll help her," Ron said. Mrs. Granger's back stiffened.
"I'm not sure that is a wise idea," she said turning around. "I believe adult assistance would be best. I'm not so sure your place in her life is very helpful at all." Ron frowned. "I'm not trying to say anything against you but it seems Hermione has had nothing but trouble being friends with you and the other boy. Harry is his name?"
"Now, now, I don't think that's quite true," Arthur objected.
"Not true? Hermione has been in danger every year of her life since meeting your son and his friend and now look at her! She's in a coma! She could have died! She shows no common sense around the boys and probably won't until she stops seeing them!"
"Stops seeing us?" Ron exclaimed. "She can't!"
"No she can't,"Arthur said.
"No, not now! Not if the only way to keep her safe according to Professor Dumbledore is to live in the same house as them!"
"Live...live in the same house? What's going on?" Ron asked.
"You, Harry, Ginny, and Hermione are all in danger now, Ron. Dumbledore feels you will all be safest during the summer if you live at Grimmauld Place with us, Professor Lupin, and perhaps others."
"So Harry wouldn't have to go back to the Dursleys? And I could be with them all summer?"
"Yes, that would be best." Ron's mood brightened considerably for the moment.
"We haven't decided if we will allow it though," Mr. Granger snapped. "I'm not so sure it would be safe." Mr. Weasley stayed calm though he obviously was not pleased by their words.
"I assure you, it is the safest place besides Hogwarts. The enemy has seen Hermione and leaving her in the muggle world without magic or protection is much more dangerous." Mrs. Granger threw her hands up in the air.
"All this magic is what's gotten her in danger! If I'd known sending her to Hogwarts would bring all of this I never would have done it! She could have gone to a nice, normal school in England or even abroad and never been burdened with any of this!"
"But your daughter isn't normal! She is a witch and always has been! Letting her be what she was born to be was the best thing you could have done for her. She wanted to come didn't she? She would have hated you for not allowing her to come!" The normally calm and happy Arthur Weasley had lost his temper.
"She would have gotten over it!"
"Well it's too late now! She has lived in this world for five years and I promise you, she loves it! Despite what has happened, I know she wouldn't trade it for anything. She has made the best friends she could-"
"Ha! I'm not so sure!"
"AND, she has become one of the greatest witches Hogwarts has seen! Your daughter is an exceptional witch."
"She won't be if she dies before she's seventeen!"
"The fact of the matter is, Mrs. Granger, your daughter lives in our world. She makes her own choices and you cannot do anything about it. She will live at Grimmauld Place during the summer and return to Hogwarts in September. If you truly want what's best for your daughter, as I know you do, you will leave her in my and Dumbledore's care where she will be safest. You know you are welcome to visit as often as you like during the summer." Mrs. Granger sat heavily in Ron's vacated chair and sobbed into her hands.
"Mr. Weasley, we do want what is best for Hermione. But we find it hard to trust she is safe in the world that has caused her so much pain and injury," Mr. Granger said calmly but anger was still evident in his voice.
"I understand. But this is the best situation for her now. I am just as sorry as you are that she has had these experiences but I assure you, it is nothing compared to some her age. True, it is more than most teens experience but she is strong and handles it all very well. She has developed into such a wonderful woman and we are all very proud of her."
"Yes, she is," Hermione's father agreed though he still sounded doubtful.
"I also know that Hermione will never leave the wizarding world because of my son." Ron's ears reddened as Hermione's parents looked at him closely. "I have no doubt we will be family in the future. If you wish to stay in her life, I'm afraid you will just have to accept it." Mrs. Granger's eyes widened as she studied her daughter.
"She, she has a ring! She can't be engaged already! She's only sixteen! Are you trying to marry her off already?" The Weasleys stared at her left hand, which indeed had a ring on it.
"Ron!" his mother exclaimed.
"It's only a promise ring! We aren't getting married, we aren't even out of school!" Mrs. Weasley's face broke into a smile and tears ran down her cheeks.
"Oh my baby promised himself to someone! Arthur, Ron did what you did!" Arthur chuckled.
"Yes, I see he did." The Grangers seemed ready to explode.
"My daughter is not promised to anyone! She is only a child!" She tried to take the ring off Hermione's finger but recoiled at the touch.
"It burned me! Why did it burn me?!" This caused Mrs. Weasley to weep even harder. Mr. Weasley grinned.
"In the magical world a promise ring means more than it does in the muggle. Since it burned you, it means Ron has given the promise ring to his soul mate, his one true love. The ring will not come off. She will wear it the rest of her life and it will grow with her." Ron stared dumbly at his father.
"You never told me that."
"You never told me you had done it."
"But Hermione took the ring off her right hand and put it on her left. It wasn't stuck on the right one."
"No, it didn't because the right hand is not where a wedding ring goes now is it?"
"You mean...Hermione and I are meant to be?" His father nodded smiling. Ron's heart began to race. No wonder the thought of marrying her always made him happy, never strange or nervous. "Blimey."
"W-what are you talking about? She, she's so young and...a soul mate?" Mrs. Granger put her hand to her forehead. "No, no, it will come off!"
"I assure you, it won't. Ron, go try to remove it. It won't burn you since you were the giver." Ron moved forward to the bed and took Hermione's hand in his. He took hold of the ring and pulled gently but it didn't budge. He tried a few more times to prove it to the Grangers but it stayed on tight.
"Mum, do you have one then?" Mrs. Weasley held out her left hand to show two rings, the promise ring and her wedding ring on the same finger. She pulled on the first one but it too wouldn't move.
"I can't believe it! So now she's stuck? She's hooked to him the rest of her life in this blasted world? I need to leave for a while. I can't handle this now!" Mrs. Granger rushed out of the room, her husband following close behind.
"Bloody Hell," Ron muttered and received a whack in the head from his mother.
"Don't swear. Oh Ron, I had no idea! I'm so happy, dear!" Ron smiled sheepishly.
"Just thought it'd be a nice Christmas present." Mrs. Weasley sighed.
"It was dear, it certainly was!"
"So Hermione's going to live with us during the summer? With Harry!" he exclaimed remembering what his father had said. "Wait, Harry agreed to live in Sirius's house?"
"Well, not yet but he will be speaking with Dumbledore anytime now. He has no other choice in the matter," his father answered.
"Poor bloke." Mrs. Weasley began to cry again.
"Yes, poor Harry! Oh, the dear will be so sad!"
"He'll get through it," Mr. Weasley comforted her. He'll have his friends there with him. Now, we need to get going, Ron. If the Granger's come back today just sit here quietly and don't talk. If not, just stay out of the nurses way and behave yourself."
"Why does everyone think I'm going to bother the nurses?" His father raised an eyebrow at him making him turn slightly red.
"Hmmm Ron, I have no idea why."
"I'm not the twins!"
"No but you get yourself in enough trouble as it is. See you later." His mother hugged him tightly again before leaving him alone with Hermione again. He sat down in the chair and took her left hand, feeling the ring with his thumb.
"We're meant to be, Hermione. Wish you were awake so you could know. Oh well, I'll tell you when you wake up. I had no idea your parents were like that. Your mum looked ready to kill me. Lucky she doesn't have a wand, eh?" He noticed her hair had fallen over her eye from her parents fussing over her. He pushed it behind her ear and stared at her for a second. He remembered a story his mum had told him when he was little about a girl who was asleep and a bloke who'd kissed her to wake her up. Snow Bright? Or was it Sleeping Pretty? Or both? He couldn't remember but thought it was worth a try. But as his lips touched hers, she remained motionless even as he pushed a little harder. He sat back down sadly. It had only been a thought, he hadn't really expected it to work but the hope had still been there.
"You're still my Sleeping Pretty," he whispered.
Author's Note: Lol, Sleeping Pretty. So, you guys kind of know what's happening next fic. Something else will happen next chapter though that talks about the summer for the characters. So, how was it? I know Hermione's parents were pains but I wanted it like that. The meant to be thing came to me while I was writing; I never planned it like that. Ok, there are review responses this time so scroll down for them!
Individuals:
Shortywithbrains: Thank you! Yeah, he is very compassionate. Glad you liked the slap! And Fred and George will be back soon.
Potterweasley: Thanks, glad you liked it! Harry had to come to his senses, I couldn't keep him away from them! Lol, it does seem strange he would think of doing that but I think could. Yeah, I went on for a sec but only to change it back to my name since my friend had used it before. I have;t been on in a really long time cuz every time I do I never get any writing or reading done since I'm talking but I've gone on a couple of times recently. Sorry I missed you though! Lol, I know, it's so easy to procrastinate!
Bellalovesron: Thanks! I'm so glad you liked it so much! I loved the Ron/Harry part too, it was so sad. Sorry it's taken so long to update! Hope you update soon too!
Becca(igneos_banana@hotmail.com): I put your address in there cuz I have another reader named Becca. Anyway, thanks! So that's four people I know from Australia!
Ron's Best Mate: Hey! Thanks for giving me three reviews! Actually, it wasn't a mistake, I think you misunderstood. Pomfrey meant for ALL talking to wait until tomorrow so that Harry and the other two wouldn't be allowed to talk to each other that night. I guess I should have clarified that better, huh? Thanks!
Missprongs: Thank you!
Joots: I know, it's sad about Hermione but she'll be awake soon. Sorry it's taken so long to update! Thanks for being patient!
Mione Weasley: Thank you! I'm glad someone appreciates my chapter titles! I'm glad you liked the chapter. How was this one? And yay! I got someone to cry from the Harry/Ron scene. I almost teared up myself writing it. I could never kill off Hermione! Lol, I love writing Madame Pomfrey! She doesn't have a very big or obvious character in HP so I've made her mean and funny. I'm sure you'll think of something for your fic. I just go along and write what's logical to come next and usually get some sort of storyline to come out of it. Plus, Malfoy made me need another fic to my story so that helped bring out some storylines.
Cheese Diva: I think it was one of my best too, not to brag! Thank you though, I'm glad you liked it so much! Of course, you do this for every chapter! Lol, I'm not complaining though, I love your reviews to no end! I liked the Ron/Harry scene too, almost cried myself. That slap was fun to write too! Glad you liked Pomfrey's line too! I loved making her mean but funny like that. Me too, procrastinating is the best! It brings out your best work!
Loli-chick336: Thanks! Glad you liked Pomfrey's line and the crying...you're right it was like LotR. I didn't mean for that but that's okay!
MilesFromNormal: Oh good, glad to know someone else has the counter! Thank you very much, and don't worry, Hermione'll be fine. Can't tell you what's next though! Sorry!
Magnolia Lane: I totally agree! I hate when boys cry! But I loved writing that scene! At first only Ron was going to talk to him but I thought it'd be too easy so I added Dumbledore. Yeah, I added the no children part but I won't copy you, I promise. I think I already said that though. Yeah, I had to focus on Homework for a bit but I have none this weekend so I'm happy!
Hp/charmed obsessed: That wasn't very soon, was it? Sorry! Hey, by the way, if you go to and look at the second to last question, there's the proof James was in Gryffindor. Sorry if you feel I'm pestering you about that but you were skeptical about it and I read this and remembered your poll and stuff.
Penelope Richmond: Thank you very much!
Becca202: Thanks! Very fuzzy, huh? I don't really know if they can hear you or not. I read about comas a little bit before I put that in but it didn't say if they could or not. Oh lots happens with Draco as I've said. Lol, I liked the slap too!
KrisKG: Thank you! Sorry I didn't update very soon! Glad you liked the slap!
Magicher1: Does that mean good? Hope so!
Duckymander: Thanks! Glad you liked it! Don't worry about updating late. Sooner or later doesn't matter to me!
Puppy Dog Eyes Jr.: Hey! I wondered where you had gone! Sorry you've been through so much! Hope things are better now! Thanks for taking the time to review since you've been so busy! Well, I updated pretty soon after your review, sorry! But everyone has been waiting a long time! Hope you get caught up soon!