There For You
Author's Note: Okay, so I said in the last chapter that 'this' was the new symbol signaling the start of a chapter and it was supposed to be two asterisks but they didn't show up so I'll have the title, the AN, then the chapter title followed by the chapter so you'll know that the chapter has begun. Understand? Well, you can look at it and figure it out.
By the way, I know I've been all over the place in the last few chapters and it's kind of confusing which part I'm at in the story since I've had different people's perspectives out of the order of the day. So, here's a review of what's happened in the same day, the day after the Riddle House incident in chronological order though it wasn't read that way. First, Harry had a Ginny died nightmare. Ron left for the hospital with his stiletto portkey (I'm very strange, I know). He met Mina (the nice, normal nurse) and got lunch from Melvin (crazy, semi-toothless kitchen delivery man). Hermione's parents came. An argument happened with the Weasleys and Grangers (who proved to be horrible) over Hermione staying at Grimmauld Place over the summer. We discover the promise ring meant to be thing. Harry visits Dumbledore and talks about summer and safety, etc. He talks to Lupin and plans to visit him regularly to hear about his parents, etc. Harry gives Ginny photo album and she says she has a journal for him. Ron spends the day being bothered by nosy nurses and listening to Hermione's parents gripe about Dumbledore and stuff. Ron comes back and hears about Harry's chats and Harry hears about the hospital. So, now it's the next day and days after and stuff. Basically, the aforementioned day is over!
Chapter 23: Denchies
For the next three days, Harry woke from nightmare after nightmare of Ginny in the little room of the Riddle House. Each time he would pull his glasses on and look to her bed next to him, just to make sure she was all right. Every night, Ron and Harry would go to sleep in the beds next to Ginny's in the Hospital Wing before Madam Pomfrey could kick them out, much to her dismay. Ginny had a feeling she cared less about their presence there than she let on, though she would never voice that opinion. Ron was always gone to the hospital by the time Harry woke. Harry wanted to visit Hermione but Ron's tales of the hospital didn't sound like something Harry would fancy doing over sitting with Ginny. Ron came back each night with the same complaints.
"I hate Hermione's parents! They won't bloody leave until she wakes up, which probably won't be for another week or more and all they ever do is look at me like I've got three heads or complain about wizards and Dumbledore and how she never should have come to Hogwarts and more shit like that! And they keep making fun of my flowers!" Ron had brought in a new flower every day for Hermione and set it in a vase on her bedside table. The twins and the Weasleys had also sent in bouquets of flowers that were set all around the room. "Then all the crazy nurses come in to check on me and look at Hermione's charts and such trying to look like they're doing something even though they're just making sure I haven't done anything! And if that bloody midget Melvin comes in one more time and calls me laddie as he tousles my hair and stuffs Arlene's sandwiches down my throat, I'll go completely mad! Plus, Hermione's parents keep examining his teeth saying they can get him a great price on denchies for being such an excellent delivery man!"
"What are denchies?" Harry asked.
"Those fake teeth things muggles use since her parents are dentists and the stupid bloke only has about three!"
"You mean denchers."
"I don't give a rat's ass what they're called!"
"Ron, I think you've already gone mad."
"Damn right I have, I can't stand it anymore! It's only been three ruddy days and I already need to order a room next to Lockhart in the nutters section of the hospital. Then I can tell him I'm a famous wizard and we can sign autographs together." Harry found this thought quite amusing but decided laughing would be a poor choice with Ron's current mood.
"Do you want me to come with you?"
"Why, so they can put some digs in on you? No, you stay here with Ginny. Maybe I can ask Fred and George if they have any type of device to put in my ears so I can't hear what everyone says."
"Like earplugs?"
"Yeah, but not those useless muggle ones. Wizard earplugs are invisible and I can get the WWN to play in them."
"Well, you better owl them soon or you won't get them for a few days."
Ron ran off to find Pig and send a note to the twins. They probably had another 'friend' who could sell them some cheap.
During the three days, Harry visited Lupin and they talked about Harry's time at the Riddle House. Lupin had little to say but apologized again to Harry for all that had happened.
Harry spent most of the day with Ginny as she took various potions to get well and regain her strength. They talked but it was nothing serious, just normal chatting and occasional games of chess. Each afternoon, McGonagall brought Ginny her day's lessons and schoolwork to not get behind as long as it wasn't too strenuous. Depending on her health, it was possible she would have to postpone one or more of her O.W.L.'s for later in the summer. Harry sometimes felt like bringing up the Riddle House again or telling Ginny about the prophecy and his fate with Voldemort but found the carefree talks they had more comfortable for him and always decided against talking about it.
On the fifth day after Valentine's Day and the events at the Riddle House, Saturday, life became temporarily easier. As usual, Ron portkeyed to the hospital, said hello to Mina, ate the plate of sandwiches Melvin brought him, and held Hermione's hand before her parents would come. He usually talked to her during this time, guessing what she would say back to him, and saying her imagined answers out loud to himself.
"So, Hermione, am I the best looking bloke in Gryffindor? Make that all of Hogwarts."
"Oh yes Ron," he answered in a higher voice supposed to be Hermione. "You're the most attractive boy in school. I'm the luckiest girl ever!"
"Yes, Love, I know you are. Thank you for saying so."
"Of course Ron, dearest, the love of my life."
"What would you like me to do to you Hermione? A nice, long snog? More than that? Oh Hermione-"
"How about a closed mouth?" the real Hermione's raspy voice answered. Ron leaped out of his chair and dropped her hand, and let out a yell. Hermione's eyes opened slowly and turned toward Ron, who stood above her, his mouth hanging open, eyes surprisingly wide.
"Hermione!"
"Hi."
"Hermione, you're awake! Bloody Hell, you're awake! You aren't in a coma anymore!" He bent over her, intending to hug her but deciding it could hurt, he sat down awkwardly.
"Maybe I shouldn't hug you."
"Don't swear. And at least kiss me." He leaned forward and brushed her lips gently, lightly laying his hand on her cheek. He pulled back and watched her blink her eyes a few times, adjusting to being open. "Have I really been in a coma?"
"Yeah, you have but you woke up much sooner than everyone expected."
"How long?"
"Since Monday night and it's Saturday morning now. Oh Hermione, you've no idea how happy I am to see you! Well, I mean I've been seeing you every day but I wanted you to wake up so bloody bad."
"Language."
"Hermione, please! Forget about my language! You're finally awake!"
"Why the hurry if it's only been about four days?"
"Because I can't stand watching you lie there and be in a coma and I don't know when you'll wake up! It was awful! There're a few other reasons but they're less important."
"What other reasons?"
"Don't worry about it now. I just want to think about you." She lifted her arm up slowly and took his hand.
"That's sweet." She looked at all the flowers surrounding her. "Who are these from?"
"These are from me," he said pointing at the vase next to her bed. "These are from my parents and Fred and George," he pointed to the ones on the floor. She smiled at him happily for a few moments before her eyes went wide and her hand gripped his tighter. "How's Ginny? And Harry? What happened? Is Dumbledore all right? What happened to Voldemort?" She tried to sit up in a rush but Ron stopped her.
"Whoa, Hermione, slow down! You can't get up yet; you have to rest! You've been in a coma for Merlins' sake! Ginny and Harry are fine! Dumbledore is fine too. Voldemort got away of course."
"But everyone's okay?"
"Yeah, it's okay, Love. You need to keep calm." He brushed the hair back from her forehead. She stared at him.
"You just said Voldemort."
"Oh yeah...I said to Harry a few days ago. I guess I'm not so afraid to say it anymore." He shrugged and looked around. She smiled at him.
"I'm glad, Ron. So tell me everything that's been happening."
"Uh no, I don't think so. It would be too much information for you to handle right now. You should know though, your parents have been coming every day you've been here and it hasn't exactly been pleasant."
"Why not?"
"Frankly, Hermione, your parents have been awful!"
"What are you talking about?"
"Okay, Dumbledore thinks it would be best if Harry, Ginny, you, and I stayed at Grimmauld Place this summer all together to be safe, the whole summer with my parents and Lupin and whoever else. Well, there is someone else but I'll tell you that later."
"Well, that sounds wonderful..."
"Yeah, I think it is but your parents hate the idea. They've been coming in every day and bad mouthing Dumbledore, me, my family, Hogwarts, and everything to do with wizards. They say how they never should have let you go to school in the first place 'cause you just made friends with a bunch of troublemakers who put you in danger."
"Oh no, they didn't!"
"Yeah!" Hermione sighed sadly.
"I figured they'd be upset but I didn't realize they would say all that. I'm so sorry you had to listen to them. They just don't understand. They are letting me go to Grimmauld Place though, right?"
"Well yeah, Dumbledore convinced them it would be the safest place for you since you've been seen by Voldemort and Death Eaters twice now. Plus, my parents argued with them about it too."
"When are they coming?"
"They should be here in a few minutes." Hermione nodded.
"So, what happened to me?"
"How far do you remember?" She thought a moment.
"We turned out the light, I switched with Ginny, you took her and left, Harry and I ran from Voldemort, he grabbed me, Dumbledore came, then I passed out."
"Okay, well Harry said Dumbledore told him to take you back to Hogwarts and Harry argued of course to stay but ended up taking you and a portkey back to Ginny's room. You were rushed here, St. Mungo's, and they took you right in to the emergency room and I couldn't see you for a couple hours. I came in here where they brought you and they said you'd been hit with some sort of dark spell that sort of stabbed at your organs, which is why you felt all that pain, then it started shutting them down and when you passed out, oxygen was having trouble getting to your brain or something. Not a very good explanation I know but I wasn't listening very well. All the trauma to your body made you go into coma."
"So, my organs are okay then?"
"I think so, yeah. The only thing is, they aren't sure if your body could handle pregnancy in the future but they said once you woke up and rested a bit, they'd test you and be able to determine it for sure."
"Wow," she breathed.
"You okay?"
"Yes, I'm fine. It's just a bit of a shock. Where are Ginny and Harry?"
"School. Ginny has to stay in the Hospital Wing for a while and Harry and I don't have to go to class until Monday. We've been staying in beds by Ginny's every night this week. I'm actually really surprised Pomfrey hasn't kicked us out yet," he added thoughtfully.
"Oh no, I've missed a week of classes! I just realized!"
"Hermione! Don't worry about that! You haven't even been awake to do schoolwork. Bugger a week of classes. You can't leave here yet anyway so it'll be more than a week." Hermione sighed.
"You're right but it's terrible we're all so behind! You should have gone to class anyway, Ron!"
"I wasn't going to go to class while you laid here in a coma! I wouldn't be able to pay attention since I'd be thinking of you the whole time!"
"All right. What about exams though, they're only a few months away-"
"Hermione, stop worrying about school. Stop worrying about anything. You're supposed to be relaxed so you can get well. I can't have you here in hospital forever; I need you back. I missed you something awful."
"Oh Ron, I'm so sorry." She reached up to his face as a knock on the door sounded. Mina stuck her head in the door.
"Oh! She's awake, wonderful!" She stepped all the way in the room and came forward. "How are you feeling dear? My name is Mina by the way. I'm the morning nurse."
"Hi. I feel all right," Hermione answered. Mina checked various things on Hermione's machines and felt her pulse.
"Everything looks good but you know you are still very weak and need to stay here and rest for a while longer. Your healer will come in soon and examine you but for now just stay relaxed and sleep if you'd like. Your parents are heading up now; I believe they stopped in the cafeteria first for a spot of coffee. I'll let them know you're awake. So Ron, I'm sure you're thrilled she's awake." Ron nodded and grinned. "Your boyfriend here has been watching over you constantly for the past week. I can tell life without you has been torture for the poor dear." Ron's ears turned red and he looked at the floor. Mina winked and smiled. "See you in a bit!" She left and softly closed the door behind her.
"Ron, that's so sweet of you. I'm sorry it's been so hard for you to be here-"She was interrupted by the door opening again. Instead of Mina walking in, it was Hermione's parents.
"Hermione! Oh darling, you're awake!" Mrs. Granger exclaimed as she ran to her, pulling Ron out of the way. She bent down and kissed her daughter's forehead repeatedly then straightened up to smooth the hair away from her face. Hermione smiled at her parents. Her father took her hand and sat in Ron's now empty chair.
"It's wonderful to see you awake, dear," Mr. Granger said.
"Mum, Dad, I'm so glad to see you. Ron, come over here," Hermione said, indicating the other side of her bed. He gave her parents an uncomfortable glance and went to Hermione's side.
"We've been so very worried about you and came everyday to see you," her mother said.
"Thank you."
"How do you feel? Are you tired? Do you need to sleep? Has talking to him made you exhausted?"
"No, Mum, I'm fine. Talking to anyone hasn't made me tired, especially not Ron."
"Well, matters concerning him have been very stressful for us, I just imagined he would tire you quickly."
"What matters? Staying at Grimmauld Place? Mum, I'll be safer there and it isn't as if Ron made the decision. My teachers and mentors at school made those choices and I agree with them if it will keep me safe."
"Oh yes dear, we want to keep you safe but how much more dangerous can it be at home? Away from all the wizard business?"
"Mum, no one knows about Grimmauld Place except a select few and anyone can come to our house. Dark wizards could walk right in and we couldn't do anything about it. It would be very dangerous for me at home. Don't blame it on Ron though, he's done nothing but try and protect me."
"As he takes you along on all his dangerous adventures."
"No, he tried to stop me from going!"
"I doubt it but if you want to defend him."
"Of course I want to defend him! I love him!"
"Hermione, maybe you should calm down," Ron said softly. She took a deep breath.
"I love him and he is part of my life."
"Yes, that's another problem with all this 'meant to be' business."
"What?" Ron groaned loudly and covered his face.
"I wanted to tell you this privately, Hermione."
"Well, privacy is all out the door now, boy," Mrs. Granger said. "Apparently this ring means you're meant to be with him and the bloody thing won't come off! I tried and it burned me! So, now there's nothing we can do about it! You're stuck!" Mrs. Granger sobbed loudly and covered her face. Her husband rubbed her back but said nothing. Ron looked at Hermione who was smiling up at him.
"So, what do you think?"
"Ron...I already knew." His mouth dropped open slightly and Mrs. Granger looked up from her hands.
"You knew!" she and Ron exclaimed simultaneously. She nodded, amusement in her eyes.
"Why didn't you tell me!? And how did you know?" Ron asked.
"Well, I didn't want to scare you. See, the day I switched it to my left hand, I tried to take it off to wash my hands but it wouldn't come off. It frightened me a bit so I decided to go to the library and research magical rings the next morning. I found a really old book called Love in the Wizarding World and it had all these things on old muggle traditions and their differences in our world and, all this fascinating information on love. It said that the moment a promise ring given to you by your one true love touched your wedding ring finger, the left, it would be forever a part of your body, therefore growing as you grow. It will also burn or hurt anyone who tries to remove it except the giver of the ring or the person wearing it. If I ever take on a relationship with anyone else or marry another, the ring will constantly cause me pain, not horrible pain, but enough to make me always remember you. The same will happen to you even though you don't have a ring, you'll still feel the pain. Frankly, I was thrilled at the thought of it but decided to wait a while before telling you because I wasn't sure how you would feel about it. I thought the knowledge that we were basically bound to each other would scare you since we're only sixteen. I was going to tell you eventually, I really was."
"Why didn't you tell me at the Riddle House? What if something had happened to one of us and I had never known?"
"There just wasn't ever enough time to explain it to you and I figured if something happened to me, I wouldn't want the thought to torment you. But you know now. How do you feel about it?"
"I'm happy! Mum and Dad told me Monday when they came in and saw you with the ring. They didn't mention the part about being with someone else though, not that it matters. I'm not planning on being with anyone but you anyway." Hermione smiled widely.
"Oh Ron, I'm so happy you aren't scared by it! That's so wonderful of you to feel like that." Mrs. Granger sniffed loudly. "Mum, why are you so upset about it? I'm in love with a incredible boy who loves me back and you're upset about it?"
"Darling, I'm just worried about your safety!"
"Well stop!" Hermione shook her head. "I mean, you can be worried about me but don't act like my life is ending! I'm out of the coma, I feel fine, and I'm going to be well protected over the summer by very well trained and equipped wizards. Yes, danger could find me again in the future but it's my decision to be here. I'm sorry Mum and Dad but you can't stop me. Bad mouthing my friends doesn't make any difference either. I'm where I want to be and with the people I want." Mrs. Granger just stared at her.
"I suppose she's made up her mind, dear," Mr. Granger commented.
"Yes, I suppose she has," his wife answered, sounding defeated. "Fine. Stay in this dangerous world. You help choose your fate and if this what you want, I can't physically stop you. I still don't agree you with you in the least and would take you away from here in an instant if I could." Tears fell down her face as she said it. "I just don't want you to keep getting hurt! I'm afraid you're going to die from all this!"
"Mum," Hermione sniffed. "Don't think like that!" Hermione and her mother embraced tightly and Ron swore he could see Mr. Granger's eyes a little shiny though no tears fell. He remained quiet and calm. Ron felt uncomfortable in the moment, knowing Mrs. Granger had a point. Hermione could die. Ron always knew it but saying it so blatantly was like a shove in the face. She was so important to so many people. What would everyone do without her? What would he do without her? She was his soul mate. He couldn't be with anyone else, especially not now that the ring would torment him all his life if he weren't with Hermione. He felt sweat forming on his brow. He had to do anything he could to protect her. But what if he failed?
"Ron?" Hermione's voice brought him out of his thoughts.
"Hmm?"
"Are you all right?"
"Who me?" he answered, his voice higher than normal. "Of course." The door opened then and Hermione's Healer walked in.
"Hello everyone. Hermione, my name is Healer Doogle. I'm pleased to see you awake so soon." Healer Doogle was an average sized woman with light blonde hair pulled back in a loose ponytail. She wore white robes with a few pockets holding various medical instruments. As she stepped forward, she pulled out a pen from a pocket near her abdomen.
"I'd like to do a quick examination on Hermione so if you could all leave the room momentarily, I'd appreciate it very much. It won't take long. You can wait outside or visit the cafeteria or waiting room, whatever you prefer." Ron kissed Hermione's forehead and her mother squeezed her hand. Ron and the Grangers left the room. Ron leaned back against the wall beside the door as the other two walked down the hallway, to the cafeteria he supposed.
"They still can't stand me," he muttered. "Bloody Hell."
Author's Note: Ah, this chapter came really easily. It was a writer's blockless chapter, horray! Hopefully the next few will be too! Okay, Hermione's awake now! Happy? Everyone's been really anxious for her to be and now she is. Everyone can relax now. Okay, until next time!
Review Responses (yes, they're back! These are from the responses to the little AN I posted before chapter 22 and the reviews from chapter 22)
Harry-potter-luvs-me: I know; everyone expected a new chapter! Sorry it wasn't but it's up now, obviously! I know, PoA is a great book (though I like GoF the best) and it was a shame they changed pretty much everything! I agree, it was good but I was still a little disappointed. Anyway, thanks!
J. S. Writer: Oh, I didn't mean to downplay any of my readers who weren't reading from the beginning! I just meant that when I first started writing I would update every 2-3 days for a long time but it hasn't been like that for ages. Anyway, thank you. I'm glad you were looking forward to my update. Well, I can't say I loved PoA but it was good. I feel they messed up the story a little too much. Everyone has their own opinion though and I'm glad you liked it so much!
'Mione Weasley: Yes, you are a very faithful reader! Thank you for that! It's so awesome having so many faithful readers! Anyway, sorry about being kind of tricked about a new chapter and all it turned out to be was an AN. I did update when I said though and the next chapter was up within a week so I'm pretty happy. I'm glad you agree with me about PoA! I mean come on, were all the parts they cut out necessary cuts and scene rearrangements? I don't think so! I agree; I loved Ron's comments about chopping off his leg and stuff. Yeah, he was pretty much just comic relief, which he was very good at but he played more than just the funny guy in the book. Yes, a letter is an excellent idea! Won't make a difference but whatever. Anyway, thanks for your support about my lengthy update time! Glad you updated too! And from your second review: Lol, I've done that loads of times to put up another review! Thanks! Glad you liked the gift! Hermione's awake now! No more worrying! Did you like my little twist about her already knowing? Lol, I thought it would be amusing. Yeah, don't worry about the purpose thing, I knew it was something spellcheck wouldn't pick up since it's still a real word but thought I'd point it out still. I'm sort of a spelling nut, everything must be spelled right! Just kidding, I know I've misspelled words before too. Ah, I'm always glad to give you good comments, especially since your fic deserves them. There I go again with the compliments. Lol. Ok, talk to you later!
DistelMalfoy: Hey, sorry for the disappointment! But thanks for the understanding too! Hey, I didn't know you wrote German stories (I just checked your profile). It doesn't really mean anything to me because I don't speak German and therefore can't read them but it's cool all the same! Anyway, hope you liked my latest updates!
Hp/charmed obsesed: See, I fixed the misspelled obsessed for you since it bothers you. Lol, we don't agree on a lot of stuff, huh? Sorry, I found it funny when you said you actually agreed with me on something. Anyway, yeah that would have been the perfect place for Lupin to say it and it only would have taken a minute or two extra. Damn movie people. That's funny about your school finding out you 'hated' the movie. I didn't hate it but I was disappointed. Hope you liked my latest updates!
Potterweasly: Thanks; the updates will be more and more regular as I go! That's good you have no more homework! Lol, I haven't been on IM much lately since that day we managed to be on at the same time. I've been either hanging out with friends, reading fics, or writing mine so I haven't come on. Ok, talk to you later!
Punkbanana13: Well, I must say that name is easier to type than the alternating capital, lower-case one. Lol, I would of course do either one. So, you haven't died yet, have you? I updated see! You can't die! Lol. Anyway, thank you very much for all your great comments on my fic! And the last one! I really appreciate them! I have to say though; I think There For You is better than Telling Ron though the latter will always have a special place in my heart. Don't worry about not reviewing for a while, I'm just glad you are now! Later!
MsMissProngs: No, I don't think you think too much. I agree with everything you said about PoA. I wasn't crazy about Sirius, Lupin, and Pettigrew's portrayals, they did a huge hack job of the story, and just didn't do the book justice, story-wise. It was still a good movie though and quite hilarious. I liked the costumes though I think they were without robes a bit too much. Whatever. Yeah, Dan and Rupert both looked good. Hope you liked my updates!
BlackScally723: Thanks! Hope you enjoyed the updates! Lol, I know it was a great part in the movie. Basically, all of Ron's lines were good. Yep, they left out way too much. Oh well.
Silverkid: Yes, I'm updating! No, I promise I will not give up on my story; it will be finished! Do you mean about living in Grimmauld Place together? I mentioned that in a past author note but I'll tell you again. At the end of the sixth year school year of this fic, I'm ending this part of the story then starting another fic continuing the story starting at Grimauld Place in the summer and going into seventh year. If you aren't reading my author's notes, I'd appreciate it if you did so I don't have to repeat things I've already said. I'm not mad at you or anything, just asking! I'm glad you interested in another sequel! By the way, since I haven't ever done a review response for you before, thank you for reading my fics! I really appreciate it!
EVILMWHAA HA HA HA HAA: Lol, nice name! Ah, thank you so much! That's so nice! Don't worry about not reviewing every chapter. I don't review every chapter of a new story if it has even 5 chapters already. Glad you like the story! You haven't gone mad yet, right? I updated, no need to go mad!
???: Nice name you have, lol. Just kidding I love question marks. Yeah, PoA was good but could have had a better script. It was hilarious though!
Pen Rich: Lol, yeah it might be good if you checked first! I luv you too! Hope you liked this chapter!
Cheese Diva: I know; it's been so long since I've updated! Chapter 23 was only a week later though, not a month! Gosh, you say so many nice things! I can't thank you enough! THANK YOU!!!!!! I love Lupin too! Glad you like my gifts. They may be creative but they take me forever to come up with. I sat at my computer for a long, long time thinking up the journal one. Lol, glad you liked the horny buggers! And Hermione's awake now and there was some R/H in there. Yeah, I've seen PoA twice. What'd you think? I thought it was good but a hack job of the story. You rock too! Ok, bye!
Shortywithbrains: Thanks; glad you liked it! I suppose he is pretty sentimental, never really thought about it. Hope you liked this chapter!
Arwentheelf: Don't worry about it! Thank you very much! As you read, it was about R/H! Hope you liked it!
Author's Note: Okay, so I said in the last chapter that 'this' was the new symbol signaling the start of a chapter and it was supposed to be two asterisks but they didn't show up so I'll have the title, the AN, then the chapter title followed by the chapter so you'll know that the chapter has begun. Understand? Well, you can look at it and figure it out.
By the way, I know I've been all over the place in the last few chapters and it's kind of confusing which part I'm at in the story since I've had different people's perspectives out of the order of the day. So, here's a review of what's happened in the same day, the day after the Riddle House incident in chronological order though it wasn't read that way. First, Harry had a Ginny died nightmare. Ron left for the hospital with his stiletto portkey (I'm very strange, I know). He met Mina (the nice, normal nurse) and got lunch from Melvin (crazy, semi-toothless kitchen delivery man). Hermione's parents came. An argument happened with the Weasleys and Grangers (who proved to be horrible) over Hermione staying at Grimmauld Place over the summer. We discover the promise ring meant to be thing. Harry visits Dumbledore and talks about summer and safety, etc. He talks to Lupin and plans to visit him regularly to hear about his parents, etc. Harry gives Ginny photo album and she says she has a journal for him. Ron spends the day being bothered by nosy nurses and listening to Hermione's parents gripe about Dumbledore and stuff. Ron comes back and hears about Harry's chats and Harry hears about the hospital. So, now it's the next day and days after and stuff. Basically, the aforementioned day is over!
Chapter 23: Denchies
For the next three days, Harry woke from nightmare after nightmare of Ginny in the little room of the Riddle House. Each time he would pull his glasses on and look to her bed next to him, just to make sure she was all right. Every night, Ron and Harry would go to sleep in the beds next to Ginny's in the Hospital Wing before Madam Pomfrey could kick them out, much to her dismay. Ginny had a feeling she cared less about their presence there than she let on, though she would never voice that opinion. Ron was always gone to the hospital by the time Harry woke. Harry wanted to visit Hermione but Ron's tales of the hospital didn't sound like something Harry would fancy doing over sitting with Ginny. Ron came back each night with the same complaints.
"I hate Hermione's parents! They won't bloody leave until she wakes up, which probably won't be for another week or more and all they ever do is look at me like I've got three heads or complain about wizards and Dumbledore and how she never should have come to Hogwarts and more shit like that! And they keep making fun of my flowers!" Ron had brought in a new flower every day for Hermione and set it in a vase on her bedside table. The twins and the Weasleys had also sent in bouquets of flowers that were set all around the room. "Then all the crazy nurses come in to check on me and look at Hermione's charts and such trying to look like they're doing something even though they're just making sure I haven't done anything! And if that bloody midget Melvin comes in one more time and calls me laddie as he tousles my hair and stuffs Arlene's sandwiches down my throat, I'll go completely mad! Plus, Hermione's parents keep examining his teeth saying they can get him a great price on denchies for being such an excellent delivery man!"
"What are denchies?" Harry asked.
"Those fake teeth things muggles use since her parents are dentists and the stupid bloke only has about three!"
"You mean denchers."
"I don't give a rat's ass what they're called!"
"Ron, I think you've already gone mad."
"Damn right I have, I can't stand it anymore! It's only been three ruddy days and I already need to order a room next to Lockhart in the nutters section of the hospital. Then I can tell him I'm a famous wizard and we can sign autographs together." Harry found this thought quite amusing but decided laughing would be a poor choice with Ron's current mood.
"Do you want me to come with you?"
"Why, so they can put some digs in on you? No, you stay here with Ginny. Maybe I can ask Fred and George if they have any type of device to put in my ears so I can't hear what everyone says."
"Like earplugs?"
"Yeah, but not those useless muggle ones. Wizard earplugs are invisible and I can get the WWN to play in them."
"Well, you better owl them soon or you won't get them for a few days."
Ron ran off to find Pig and send a note to the twins. They probably had another 'friend' who could sell them some cheap.
During the three days, Harry visited Lupin and they talked about Harry's time at the Riddle House. Lupin had little to say but apologized again to Harry for all that had happened.
Harry spent most of the day with Ginny as she took various potions to get well and regain her strength. They talked but it was nothing serious, just normal chatting and occasional games of chess. Each afternoon, McGonagall brought Ginny her day's lessons and schoolwork to not get behind as long as it wasn't too strenuous. Depending on her health, it was possible she would have to postpone one or more of her O.W.L.'s for later in the summer. Harry sometimes felt like bringing up the Riddle House again or telling Ginny about the prophecy and his fate with Voldemort but found the carefree talks they had more comfortable for him and always decided against talking about it.
On the fifth day after Valentine's Day and the events at the Riddle House, Saturday, life became temporarily easier. As usual, Ron portkeyed to the hospital, said hello to Mina, ate the plate of sandwiches Melvin brought him, and held Hermione's hand before her parents would come. He usually talked to her during this time, guessing what she would say back to him, and saying her imagined answers out loud to himself.
"So, Hermione, am I the best looking bloke in Gryffindor? Make that all of Hogwarts."
"Oh yes Ron," he answered in a higher voice supposed to be Hermione. "You're the most attractive boy in school. I'm the luckiest girl ever!"
"Yes, Love, I know you are. Thank you for saying so."
"Of course Ron, dearest, the love of my life."
"What would you like me to do to you Hermione? A nice, long snog? More than that? Oh Hermione-"
"How about a closed mouth?" the real Hermione's raspy voice answered. Ron leaped out of his chair and dropped her hand, and let out a yell. Hermione's eyes opened slowly and turned toward Ron, who stood above her, his mouth hanging open, eyes surprisingly wide.
"Hermione!"
"Hi."
"Hermione, you're awake! Bloody Hell, you're awake! You aren't in a coma anymore!" He bent over her, intending to hug her but deciding it could hurt, he sat down awkwardly.
"Maybe I shouldn't hug you."
"Don't swear. And at least kiss me." He leaned forward and brushed her lips gently, lightly laying his hand on her cheek. He pulled back and watched her blink her eyes a few times, adjusting to being open. "Have I really been in a coma?"
"Yeah, you have but you woke up much sooner than everyone expected."
"How long?"
"Since Monday night and it's Saturday morning now. Oh Hermione, you've no idea how happy I am to see you! Well, I mean I've been seeing you every day but I wanted you to wake up so bloody bad."
"Language."
"Hermione, please! Forget about my language! You're finally awake!"
"Why the hurry if it's only been about four days?"
"Because I can't stand watching you lie there and be in a coma and I don't know when you'll wake up! It was awful! There're a few other reasons but they're less important."
"What other reasons?"
"Don't worry about it now. I just want to think about you." She lifted her arm up slowly and took his hand.
"That's sweet." She looked at all the flowers surrounding her. "Who are these from?"
"These are from me," he said pointing at the vase next to her bed. "These are from my parents and Fred and George," he pointed to the ones on the floor. She smiled at him happily for a few moments before her eyes went wide and her hand gripped his tighter. "How's Ginny? And Harry? What happened? Is Dumbledore all right? What happened to Voldemort?" She tried to sit up in a rush but Ron stopped her.
"Whoa, Hermione, slow down! You can't get up yet; you have to rest! You've been in a coma for Merlins' sake! Ginny and Harry are fine! Dumbledore is fine too. Voldemort got away of course."
"But everyone's okay?"
"Yeah, it's okay, Love. You need to keep calm." He brushed the hair back from her forehead. She stared at him.
"You just said Voldemort."
"Oh yeah...I said to Harry a few days ago. I guess I'm not so afraid to say it anymore." He shrugged and looked around. She smiled at him.
"I'm glad, Ron. So tell me everything that's been happening."
"Uh no, I don't think so. It would be too much information for you to handle right now. You should know though, your parents have been coming every day you've been here and it hasn't exactly been pleasant."
"Why not?"
"Frankly, Hermione, your parents have been awful!"
"What are you talking about?"
"Okay, Dumbledore thinks it would be best if Harry, Ginny, you, and I stayed at Grimmauld Place this summer all together to be safe, the whole summer with my parents and Lupin and whoever else. Well, there is someone else but I'll tell you that later."
"Well, that sounds wonderful..."
"Yeah, I think it is but your parents hate the idea. They've been coming in every day and bad mouthing Dumbledore, me, my family, Hogwarts, and everything to do with wizards. They say how they never should have let you go to school in the first place 'cause you just made friends with a bunch of troublemakers who put you in danger."
"Oh no, they didn't!"
"Yeah!" Hermione sighed sadly.
"I figured they'd be upset but I didn't realize they would say all that. I'm so sorry you had to listen to them. They just don't understand. They are letting me go to Grimmauld Place though, right?"
"Well yeah, Dumbledore convinced them it would be the safest place for you since you've been seen by Voldemort and Death Eaters twice now. Plus, my parents argued with them about it too."
"When are they coming?"
"They should be here in a few minutes." Hermione nodded.
"So, what happened to me?"
"How far do you remember?" She thought a moment.
"We turned out the light, I switched with Ginny, you took her and left, Harry and I ran from Voldemort, he grabbed me, Dumbledore came, then I passed out."
"Okay, well Harry said Dumbledore told him to take you back to Hogwarts and Harry argued of course to stay but ended up taking you and a portkey back to Ginny's room. You were rushed here, St. Mungo's, and they took you right in to the emergency room and I couldn't see you for a couple hours. I came in here where they brought you and they said you'd been hit with some sort of dark spell that sort of stabbed at your organs, which is why you felt all that pain, then it started shutting them down and when you passed out, oxygen was having trouble getting to your brain or something. Not a very good explanation I know but I wasn't listening very well. All the trauma to your body made you go into coma."
"So, my organs are okay then?"
"I think so, yeah. The only thing is, they aren't sure if your body could handle pregnancy in the future but they said once you woke up and rested a bit, they'd test you and be able to determine it for sure."
"Wow," she breathed.
"You okay?"
"Yes, I'm fine. It's just a bit of a shock. Where are Ginny and Harry?"
"School. Ginny has to stay in the Hospital Wing for a while and Harry and I don't have to go to class until Monday. We've been staying in beds by Ginny's every night this week. I'm actually really surprised Pomfrey hasn't kicked us out yet," he added thoughtfully.
"Oh no, I've missed a week of classes! I just realized!"
"Hermione! Don't worry about that! You haven't even been awake to do schoolwork. Bugger a week of classes. You can't leave here yet anyway so it'll be more than a week." Hermione sighed.
"You're right but it's terrible we're all so behind! You should have gone to class anyway, Ron!"
"I wasn't going to go to class while you laid here in a coma! I wouldn't be able to pay attention since I'd be thinking of you the whole time!"
"All right. What about exams though, they're only a few months away-"
"Hermione, stop worrying about school. Stop worrying about anything. You're supposed to be relaxed so you can get well. I can't have you here in hospital forever; I need you back. I missed you something awful."
"Oh Ron, I'm so sorry." She reached up to his face as a knock on the door sounded. Mina stuck her head in the door.
"Oh! She's awake, wonderful!" She stepped all the way in the room and came forward. "How are you feeling dear? My name is Mina by the way. I'm the morning nurse."
"Hi. I feel all right," Hermione answered. Mina checked various things on Hermione's machines and felt her pulse.
"Everything looks good but you know you are still very weak and need to stay here and rest for a while longer. Your healer will come in soon and examine you but for now just stay relaxed and sleep if you'd like. Your parents are heading up now; I believe they stopped in the cafeteria first for a spot of coffee. I'll let them know you're awake. So Ron, I'm sure you're thrilled she's awake." Ron nodded and grinned. "Your boyfriend here has been watching over you constantly for the past week. I can tell life without you has been torture for the poor dear." Ron's ears turned red and he looked at the floor. Mina winked and smiled. "See you in a bit!" She left and softly closed the door behind her.
"Ron, that's so sweet of you. I'm sorry it's been so hard for you to be here-"She was interrupted by the door opening again. Instead of Mina walking in, it was Hermione's parents.
"Hermione! Oh darling, you're awake!" Mrs. Granger exclaimed as she ran to her, pulling Ron out of the way. She bent down and kissed her daughter's forehead repeatedly then straightened up to smooth the hair away from her face. Hermione smiled at her parents. Her father took her hand and sat in Ron's now empty chair.
"It's wonderful to see you awake, dear," Mr. Granger said.
"Mum, Dad, I'm so glad to see you. Ron, come over here," Hermione said, indicating the other side of her bed. He gave her parents an uncomfortable glance and went to Hermione's side.
"We've been so very worried about you and came everyday to see you," her mother said.
"Thank you."
"How do you feel? Are you tired? Do you need to sleep? Has talking to him made you exhausted?"
"No, Mum, I'm fine. Talking to anyone hasn't made me tired, especially not Ron."
"Well, matters concerning him have been very stressful for us, I just imagined he would tire you quickly."
"What matters? Staying at Grimmauld Place? Mum, I'll be safer there and it isn't as if Ron made the decision. My teachers and mentors at school made those choices and I agree with them if it will keep me safe."
"Oh yes dear, we want to keep you safe but how much more dangerous can it be at home? Away from all the wizard business?"
"Mum, no one knows about Grimmauld Place except a select few and anyone can come to our house. Dark wizards could walk right in and we couldn't do anything about it. It would be very dangerous for me at home. Don't blame it on Ron though, he's done nothing but try and protect me."
"As he takes you along on all his dangerous adventures."
"No, he tried to stop me from going!"
"I doubt it but if you want to defend him."
"Of course I want to defend him! I love him!"
"Hermione, maybe you should calm down," Ron said softly. She took a deep breath.
"I love him and he is part of my life."
"Yes, that's another problem with all this 'meant to be' business."
"What?" Ron groaned loudly and covered his face.
"I wanted to tell you this privately, Hermione."
"Well, privacy is all out the door now, boy," Mrs. Granger said. "Apparently this ring means you're meant to be with him and the bloody thing won't come off! I tried and it burned me! So, now there's nothing we can do about it! You're stuck!" Mrs. Granger sobbed loudly and covered her face. Her husband rubbed her back but said nothing. Ron looked at Hermione who was smiling up at him.
"So, what do you think?"
"Ron...I already knew." His mouth dropped open slightly and Mrs. Granger looked up from her hands.
"You knew!" she and Ron exclaimed simultaneously. She nodded, amusement in her eyes.
"Why didn't you tell me!? And how did you know?" Ron asked.
"Well, I didn't want to scare you. See, the day I switched it to my left hand, I tried to take it off to wash my hands but it wouldn't come off. It frightened me a bit so I decided to go to the library and research magical rings the next morning. I found a really old book called Love in the Wizarding World and it had all these things on old muggle traditions and their differences in our world and, all this fascinating information on love. It said that the moment a promise ring given to you by your one true love touched your wedding ring finger, the left, it would be forever a part of your body, therefore growing as you grow. It will also burn or hurt anyone who tries to remove it except the giver of the ring or the person wearing it. If I ever take on a relationship with anyone else or marry another, the ring will constantly cause me pain, not horrible pain, but enough to make me always remember you. The same will happen to you even though you don't have a ring, you'll still feel the pain. Frankly, I was thrilled at the thought of it but decided to wait a while before telling you because I wasn't sure how you would feel about it. I thought the knowledge that we were basically bound to each other would scare you since we're only sixteen. I was going to tell you eventually, I really was."
"Why didn't you tell me at the Riddle House? What if something had happened to one of us and I had never known?"
"There just wasn't ever enough time to explain it to you and I figured if something happened to me, I wouldn't want the thought to torment you. But you know now. How do you feel about it?"
"I'm happy! Mum and Dad told me Monday when they came in and saw you with the ring. They didn't mention the part about being with someone else though, not that it matters. I'm not planning on being with anyone but you anyway." Hermione smiled widely.
"Oh Ron, I'm so happy you aren't scared by it! That's so wonderful of you to feel like that." Mrs. Granger sniffed loudly. "Mum, why are you so upset about it? I'm in love with a incredible boy who loves me back and you're upset about it?"
"Darling, I'm just worried about your safety!"
"Well stop!" Hermione shook her head. "I mean, you can be worried about me but don't act like my life is ending! I'm out of the coma, I feel fine, and I'm going to be well protected over the summer by very well trained and equipped wizards. Yes, danger could find me again in the future but it's my decision to be here. I'm sorry Mum and Dad but you can't stop me. Bad mouthing my friends doesn't make any difference either. I'm where I want to be and with the people I want." Mrs. Granger just stared at her.
"I suppose she's made up her mind, dear," Mr. Granger commented.
"Yes, I suppose she has," his wife answered, sounding defeated. "Fine. Stay in this dangerous world. You help choose your fate and if this what you want, I can't physically stop you. I still don't agree you with you in the least and would take you away from here in an instant if I could." Tears fell down her face as she said it. "I just don't want you to keep getting hurt! I'm afraid you're going to die from all this!"
"Mum," Hermione sniffed. "Don't think like that!" Hermione and her mother embraced tightly and Ron swore he could see Mr. Granger's eyes a little shiny though no tears fell. He remained quiet and calm. Ron felt uncomfortable in the moment, knowing Mrs. Granger had a point. Hermione could die. Ron always knew it but saying it so blatantly was like a shove in the face. She was so important to so many people. What would everyone do without her? What would he do without her? She was his soul mate. He couldn't be with anyone else, especially not now that the ring would torment him all his life if he weren't with Hermione. He felt sweat forming on his brow. He had to do anything he could to protect her. But what if he failed?
"Ron?" Hermione's voice brought him out of his thoughts.
"Hmm?"
"Are you all right?"
"Who me?" he answered, his voice higher than normal. "Of course." The door opened then and Hermione's Healer walked in.
"Hello everyone. Hermione, my name is Healer Doogle. I'm pleased to see you awake so soon." Healer Doogle was an average sized woman with light blonde hair pulled back in a loose ponytail. She wore white robes with a few pockets holding various medical instruments. As she stepped forward, she pulled out a pen from a pocket near her abdomen.
"I'd like to do a quick examination on Hermione so if you could all leave the room momentarily, I'd appreciate it very much. It won't take long. You can wait outside or visit the cafeteria or waiting room, whatever you prefer." Ron kissed Hermione's forehead and her mother squeezed her hand. Ron and the Grangers left the room. Ron leaned back against the wall beside the door as the other two walked down the hallway, to the cafeteria he supposed.
"They still can't stand me," he muttered. "Bloody Hell."
Author's Note: Ah, this chapter came really easily. It was a writer's blockless chapter, horray! Hopefully the next few will be too! Okay, Hermione's awake now! Happy? Everyone's been really anxious for her to be and now she is. Everyone can relax now. Okay, until next time!
Review Responses (yes, they're back! These are from the responses to the little AN I posted before chapter 22 and the reviews from chapter 22)
Harry-potter-luvs-me: I know; everyone expected a new chapter! Sorry it wasn't but it's up now, obviously! I know, PoA is a great book (though I like GoF the best) and it was a shame they changed pretty much everything! I agree, it was good but I was still a little disappointed. Anyway, thanks!
J. S. Writer: Oh, I didn't mean to downplay any of my readers who weren't reading from the beginning! I just meant that when I first started writing I would update every 2-3 days for a long time but it hasn't been like that for ages. Anyway, thank you. I'm glad you were looking forward to my update. Well, I can't say I loved PoA but it was good. I feel they messed up the story a little too much. Everyone has their own opinion though and I'm glad you liked it so much!
'Mione Weasley: Yes, you are a very faithful reader! Thank you for that! It's so awesome having so many faithful readers! Anyway, sorry about being kind of tricked about a new chapter and all it turned out to be was an AN. I did update when I said though and the next chapter was up within a week so I'm pretty happy. I'm glad you agree with me about PoA! I mean come on, were all the parts they cut out necessary cuts and scene rearrangements? I don't think so! I agree; I loved Ron's comments about chopping off his leg and stuff. Yeah, he was pretty much just comic relief, which he was very good at but he played more than just the funny guy in the book. Yes, a letter is an excellent idea! Won't make a difference but whatever. Anyway, thanks for your support about my lengthy update time! Glad you updated too! And from your second review: Lol, I've done that loads of times to put up another review! Thanks! Glad you liked the gift! Hermione's awake now! No more worrying! Did you like my little twist about her already knowing? Lol, I thought it would be amusing. Yeah, don't worry about the purpose thing, I knew it was something spellcheck wouldn't pick up since it's still a real word but thought I'd point it out still. I'm sort of a spelling nut, everything must be spelled right! Just kidding, I know I've misspelled words before too. Ah, I'm always glad to give you good comments, especially since your fic deserves them. There I go again with the compliments. Lol. Ok, talk to you later!
DistelMalfoy: Hey, sorry for the disappointment! But thanks for the understanding too! Hey, I didn't know you wrote German stories (I just checked your profile). It doesn't really mean anything to me because I don't speak German and therefore can't read them but it's cool all the same! Anyway, hope you liked my latest updates!
Hp/charmed obsesed: See, I fixed the misspelled obsessed for you since it bothers you. Lol, we don't agree on a lot of stuff, huh? Sorry, I found it funny when you said you actually agreed with me on something. Anyway, yeah that would have been the perfect place for Lupin to say it and it only would have taken a minute or two extra. Damn movie people. That's funny about your school finding out you 'hated' the movie. I didn't hate it but I was disappointed. Hope you liked my latest updates!
Potterweasly: Thanks; the updates will be more and more regular as I go! That's good you have no more homework! Lol, I haven't been on IM much lately since that day we managed to be on at the same time. I've been either hanging out with friends, reading fics, or writing mine so I haven't come on. Ok, talk to you later!
Punkbanana13: Well, I must say that name is easier to type than the alternating capital, lower-case one. Lol, I would of course do either one. So, you haven't died yet, have you? I updated see! You can't die! Lol. Anyway, thank you very much for all your great comments on my fic! And the last one! I really appreciate them! I have to say though; I think There For You is better than Telling Ron though the latter will always have a special place in my heart. Don't worry about not reviewing for a while, I'm just glad you are now! Later!
MsMissProngs: No, I don't think you think too much. I agree with everything you said about PoA. I wasn't crazy about Sirius, Lupin, and Pettigrew's portrayals, they did a huge hack job of the story, and just didn't do the book justice, story-wise. It was still a good movie though and quite hilarious. I liked the costumes though I think they were without robes a bit too much. Whatever. Yeah, Dan and Rupert both looked good. Hope you liked my updates!
BlackScally723: Thanks! Hope you enjoyed the updates! Lol, I know it was a great part in the movie. Basically, all of Ron's lines were good. Yep, they left out way too much. Oh well.
Silverkid: Yes, I'm updating! No, I promise I will not give up on my story; it will be finished! Do you mean about living in Grimmauld Place together? I mentioned that in a past author note but I'll tell you again. At the end of the sixth year school year of this fic, I'm ending this part of the story then starting another fic continuing the story starting at Grimauld Place in the summer and going into seventh year. If you aren't reading my author's notes, I'd appreciate it if you did so I don't have to repeat things I've already said. I'm not mad at you or anything, just asking! I'm glad you interested in another sequel! By the way, since I haven't ever done a review response for you before, thank you for reading my fics! I really appreciate it!
EVILMWHAA HA HA HA HAA: Lol, nice name! Ah, thank you so much! That's so nice! Don't worry about not reviewing every chapter. I don't review every chapter of a new story if it has even 5 chapters already. Glad you like the story! You haven't gone mad yet, right? I updated, no need to go mad!
???: Nice name you have, lol. Just kidding I love question marks. Yeah, PoA was good but could have had a better script. It was hilarious though!
Pen Rich: Lol, yeah it might be good if you checked first! I luv you too! Hope you liked this chapter!
Cheese Diva: I know; it's been so long since I've updated! Chapter 23 was only a week later though, not a month! Gosh, you say so many nice things! I can't thank you enough! THANK YOU!!!!!! I love Lupin too! Glad you like my gifts. They may be creative but they take me forever to come up with. I sat at my computer for a long, long time thinking up the journal one. Lol, glad you liked the horny buggers! And Hermione's awake now and there was some R/H in there. Yeah, I've seen PoA twice. What'd you think? I thought it was good but a hack job of the story. You rock too! Ok, bye!
Shortywithbrains: Thanks; glad you liked it! I suppose he is pretty sentimental, never really thought about it. Hope you liked this chapter!
Arwentheelf: Don't worry about it! Thank you very much! As you read, it was about R/H! Hope you liked it!