There For You
Author's Note: Hey all! I just wanted to say thanks to everyone who has stuck with this fic and me even when I hadn't updated for like a month! Thank you all! Anyway, Pen Richmond pointed out to me that I spelled DENTURES wrong in the last chapter. I spelled it denchers. So, thanks to her! Okay, chapters are fairly short now because this fic is almost done with but then there's the next part of my series to come. It will be of summer and seventh year, like I've said. Then I'll probably continue with life after Hogwarts and I'll most likely go back to the time before Telling Ron and have a prequel talking about Ron realizing he liked Hermione, ahem loved, and stuff like that. So, it's turning out to be a five part series. I'm sharing this because I've told two other people and thought all my readers should know. Okay, on with the chapter!
Chapter 24: Doogen?
Ron slid slowly down the wall next to Hermione's door onto the floor. He took a deep breath and dropped his head into his hands. If only her parents would leave, he'd feel much more relaxed and definitely less annoyed. They just had to keep bringing up bad issues and make Hermione cry. Of course, he'd made her cry plenty of times but he would never out right say she could die. Hell, Hermione already knew it. Or maybe he had mentioned it to her before...still, bloody parents. He heard footsteps coming toward him and looked up to see Mina. She sat in front of him and smiled comfortingly.
"Everything okay?" He nodded unconvincingly. "Come on, what is it?"
"It's just been a terrible week."
"It's never pleasant to be in hospital."
"I'm not even the one in hospital."
"Visiting isn't a picnic either. Especially when it's your girlfriend. Anything I can do?"
"Deny her parents entrance to her room." She laughed.
"Sorry, honey, no can do. I heard them say though that they hoped Hermione would wake soon because they were tired of being here everyday. They won't come every day before she leaves here. They wanted her awake for good reasons but also so they don't have to visit anymore."
"I never knew they were like that."
"Oh, you can't ever know how someone is unless you've known them for a little while. Appearances mean nothing at all. Now, you look perfectly nice from a distance but you could be a rude, obnoxious arse." Ron chuckled.
"I am a rude, obnoxious arse." She laughed.
"Well, you know what I mean." He nodded. She patted his shoulder and stood up. "See you later, honey."
"Bye."
Ron relaxed back into the wall and closed his eyes. As he thought for a few moments, he smiled. In a few months, they would all be in Grimmauld Place. It would be hard for Harry but at least everyone would be together, where he knew they were safe. He could see Hermione every single day. Harry would have his best friends and Ginny to keep him company. To his immense dislike, Malfoy would be there too but Ron would make sure he stayed far away from them. It wasn't as if Malfoy wanted to hang around them anyway. The door opened next to him and he looked up. Healer Doogle smiled down at him.
"Hello Ron."
"Hi Healer...Doogen?" He suddenly couldn't remember.
"It's Doogle. It's a strange name, I know. It was Doogley but my father changed it because he thought it would sound better. It doesn't but oh well. You can go in now." He stood up.
"How is she?"
"She's doing very well. Her movements are still small and weak and her heart rate is a bit off but otherwise she's all right. She needs bed rest for a while longer. We can move her to the Hogwarts infirmary in a few days I'd imagine."
"And what about later? Like when she wants to get pregnant?"
"I feel pretty confident she can but I will have a final analysis on that tomorrow morning. I'd rather do it when visitors are not here so I will test her tonight when you all leave." Ron nodded. "Now, when she was asleep, multiple visitors were fine but I do not want Hermione to become too excited or distressed. I am requesting one at a time. You may go in now but her parents will have to have their turn when they come back. I will go inform them of this now. So, only calm, quiet conversation right now, please." She pushed the door open for him and he walked in.
"Hi," Hermione said. She was lying on her side, her arms under her head with the blankets pulled up to her shoulder. Her hair was like a second pillow underneath her, while some of it ran down her cheek to her shoulder. She smiled at him calmly. He thought she looked beautiful.
"Hi, Love. How are you feeling?"
"A little tired, probably from the crying with my mum. How are you?" He sat down next to her and leaned his head against the top of her bed.
"I'm fine. I just sat outside against the wall."
"Sounds fun."
"You've no idea," he rolled his eyes.
"So, what else have I missed since I've been sleeping?"
"Well, there are a few things you'll need to know eventually but not now. We aren't supposed to talk about anything distressing."
"Then, it's distressing news?"
"Yeah...I think it would upset you a bit." Malfoy staying at Grimmauld Place, Harry's fate, and Harry's talk with Dumbledore weren't happy things to talk about in his opinion.
"When will you tell me?" He shrugged.
"When you've rested for a while. I want you to get better quick and thinking happy thoughts is the way to go I reckon." She ran her hand through his hair.
"Okay. Let's talk about that little conversation you were having as I woke up earlier." Ron's face turned red.
"Or how about school? Quills? Crookshanks! Let me tell you about Crook-" Hermione laughed loudly.
"But I can't remember what you and 'I' were saying," she said in mock curiosity. "Something about you being the best looking bloke in school? And having a nice long snog? Or...more?" He coughed uncomfortably and shrugged, leaning back in his chair.
"I've no idea what you're talking about."
"Then why are you redder than a quaffle?"
"Well, Hermione, who doesn't get uncomfortable talking about snogging...and more," he finished quietly.
"You certainly don't!"
"Okay, okay, I was having a little conversation with myself pretending to be you because I would get bored sitting here by myself while you were in the coma! Is that so wrong?"
"You are too easy, Ronald Weasley," she laughed. He rolled his eyes. She grinned at him as his face color faded back to normal. Without taking her eyes off his, she laced her hand in his. They kept eye contact for several minutes, Ron feeling how wonderful it was to look at her again and have her look back. His other hand slowly reached to her face and smoothed her hair away then gently caressed her cheek. She scooted herself up into a slightly higher position. Their gaze never broke until they leaned into each other. As their lips met, their eyes closed. She held his wrist with her free hand and unlaced the other to run it through his hair. He slid forward in his chair and laid a kiss on her chin, then her jaw, and over below her ear. She sighed contentedly; reveling in the smell she loved so much from him. She put her arms around his neck and he wrapped his round her waist, and buried his face in her hair.
"I'm so glad you're here," she whispered as they held each other close. He murmured in agreement.
"I love you." He felt a wet droplet fall on his shoulder. He pulled back to see tears falling down her cheeks. "What is it? Are you okay? Does something hurt?" She shook her head and hugged him again. "Then what is it?"
"I don't know. I just feel like crying."
"Oh..." Why did girls cry for no reason? (AN: I'm a girl so I know I cry sometimes for no real reason but guys don't really get that do they?)
"I'm just happy to be here with you. You know, I heard you once while I was in my coma. It sounded really far away though. I wanted to talk to you but couldn't. I hate not being able to hear you or talk to you." (AN (again): I read somewhere that people may be able to hear what's happening around them when they're in a coma so yeah.)
"You heard me?"
"I think so."
"Blimey. Well, now we're together and we get to be together for a long time. We get to live in Grimmauld Place and we live together at Hogwarts. I'm going to take really good care of you when you leave here." She kissed his cheek.
"Okay." She leaned back into her pillows and took his hand tightly in hers. He wiped away the last few tears from her cheeks. She yawned softly.
"Hey, you should sleep. I've tired you out already."
"No, no, it isn't your fault. I just need a little nap." She slid down into her sheets and adjusted her pillow. He made to take his hand from hers but she held it. "You aren't leaving are you?"
"No! I thought you wanted to sleep though?"
"Yes, but you can still hold my hand."
"Okay, sorry." She smiled and closed her eyes. Ron leaned back in his chair without releasing his hand. He watched her until her breathing became heavy and regular. Slowly, her hand fell out of his and hung loosely out of her bed. He took it gently and placed it next to her body. He felt his eyes growing tired and closed them as he put his head back against his chair.
Outside the room, Mrs. Granger put a hand to her mouth and turned to her husband.
"Oh," she sighed. "Did you hear that? As much as I hate to admit it, that was sweet. They're really in love." Mr. Granger nodded grimly.
"We have to leave them alone and stop badgering the boy about his life. She fits in."
"We'll come back tomorrow and say good bye. Later in the summer we can visit her at that safe house. For now though, he can help her more than we can." She sobbed and sighed again.
"It may have been a mistake letting her in this world but it's too late now. Come on, let's go." Mr. Granger put his arm around his wife's shoulder and led her down the hall.
Mina came around the corner and chuckled to herself. 'It takes the muggles so long to understand,' she thought to herself as she put the silencing charm back on the door. She opened Hermione's door enough to peek in and saw Hermione sound asleep with Ron next to her in his chair, mouth open and snoring gently. 'How cute.'
--(In case the asterisks don't show up)
Harry slept in unusually late that morning and woke to find Ginny writing out notes on a long bit of parchment. Books were strewn all over her bed. He dressed in the loo and ate while she finished up her work then they played a game of chess. Later that afternoon after lessons were over, Madam Pomfrey came in and cleared her throat.
"You have visitors. They've tried coming up quite a few times this week. I suppose it would be all right now. It will be a quick visit though. She opened the door and Neville, Dean, Seamus, Parvati, Lavender, and Luna came in. Madam Pomfrey walked to her office and closed the door.
"Harry!" Seamus exclaimed and patted his shoulder. "How are you mate?" He nodded a greeting at Ginny.
"I'm pretty good, you?"
"Well, we're all fine but we've been wondering what happened to you and everyone else. Where're Ron and Hermione?" he asked looking around. Lavender and Parvati were fussing over Ginny and Luna stood next to Neville, staring in Harry's direction but he couldn't tell if she was actually looking at him.
"Hey, everyone, pull up some chairs. Sit down," Harry said. "Anyway, Ron and Hermione are at St. Mungo's."
"Hermione still in a coma?"
"Yeah, how'd you know?" (He doesn't know she woke up yet.)
"Dumbledore made an announcement the morning after it happened. How are you Ginny?" Seamus turned to her.
"I'm feeling a lot better actually. Standing up still makes me dizzy though and walking too long makes me tired."
"You still have to do work though?" Parvati asked, noticing the pile of books and parchment on the floor beside Ginny's bed.
"Yes, the parts that aren't strenuous. Basically, all the essays."
"That's terrible! You should be resting!" Ginny giggled.
"Well, I'm resting while I work."
"Still, you're in hospital!"
"How is Ronald taking it?" Luna piped up.
"Well, he's depressed about Hermione. Apparently her parents have been real pains and he has to sit and watch Hermione in her coma all day long. He doesn't have to of course but he does anyway."
"She'll wake up soon though," Luna continued.
"How do you know? It could be a long time," Dean said. Luna just shook her head.
"You know Hermione."
"Yeah, well hopefully," Harry said.
"So, I don't mean to pry but...can you say anything about what happened to you guys?" Seamus asked.
"What all did Dumbledore say?" Harry asked.
"He said that you'd had another run in with You-Know-Who and Hermione was in a coma, Ginny was stuck in bed and you and Ron would be out of class a week to recuperate."
"Ginny, you okay if I tell a little?" She nodded. Harry took a breath and thought of what he could say without angering himself and upsetting anyone. "Okay, Ginny was kidnapped and taken to a house and the three of us went to get her and a lot of stuff happened and Hermione got hit with a curse and eventually we all got back. Hermione went straight to St. Mungo's and Ginny came here. She'd been hit the Cruciatus Curse a lot." They all stared back at him sadly.
"What was Hermione hit with?" Lavender asked in a whisper.
"Don't know, something that messed up her organs and stuff and put her into a coma."
"Oh no," Parvati breathed.
"Harry...how did she-er, Bellatrix Lestrange- die?" Neville asked. "I read it in The Prophet that she was killed." Harry opened his mouth. He hadn't thought about that. Neville would want to know about Lestrange since she had tortured his parents.
"Oh, uh Voldemort," most of the group shivered, "accidentally killed her." Neville nodded.
"Okay." He didn't say anything else. No one but Harry and Ginny in the room knew about Neville's parents. Luna put a hand on his arm. Harry wondered if she knew. Neville seemed comforted by the gesture and smiled weakly at her. There was a lull in conversation but Seamus picked up on it pretty quickly.
"So, when're you coming back to class, Harry?"
"Monday."
"And Ginny?"
"I don't know yet," she answered. "I may not have to do all the exams at the end of the year depending on my strength. Unfortunately, I think I'll be well by then."
"You could pretend," Seamus suggested.
"I think Madam Pomfrey would know though." Seamus shrugged.
The group continued to chat until dinner and Seamus, Dean, Parvati, Lavender, Neville, and Luna left. Ginny took a nap until Ron came back that night at nine. The pop noise of him returning woke her.
"She's awake!" Ron told them. "She woke up this morning."
"Really Ron?" Ginny asked. "Oh thank goodness!"
"How's she feeling?" Harry asked.
"She felt pretty good all day then her Healer did a quick examination on her and we talked then she fell asleep until about fifteen minutes ago. I told her I had to leave soon and she got all teary-eyed. I think she doesn't want to be in the room alone or something. I promised to be back right at eight tomorrow though. She still seemed upset." His face was furrowed in worry as he sat down heavily on his bed.
"Maybe she's scared," Ginny said.
"Yeah," Ron sighed. "What about next week when we have to go back to class and she's going to be there all by herself all day?"
"Aren't her parents there?"
"Well, actually, they never came back in after her Healer came. I don't like her being there just with them though. They'll probably put all these anti-wizard ideas in her head."
"Ron, you really think Hermione will be persuaded that easily?" Ginny asked.
"I suppose not. Still, I want to stay with her until she comes back here."
"When will that be?"
"I don't know. Soon but not tomorrow or anything."
"So, how was it when she woke up?" Ginny asked, smiling. Ron blushed slightly.
"Er, it was good," he said, deciding not to mention his fake conversation. "She scared me to death though, 'cause I didn't know her eyes were open or anything. Then her parents came in and made her all upset." Ron relayed the conversation they had and told them what he still hadn't told her. "Anyway, she has to rest a while and not get too excited or depressed so I don't want to tell her anything upsetting yet. Ginny, you should go back to sleep." Ginny's eyes were beginning to droop as he was speaking and she nodded. She sank down into her sheets and Harry came and pulled her blanket up. He kissed her lips quickly and she touched his cheek before closing her eyes.
Ron motioned for Harry to go to the end of the room with him and they stood across from each other.
"Have you told Ginny about the prophecy yet?" Ron asked quietly. Harry shook his head.
"I'm not going to until she's completely better. We haven't talked about anything like that. If she wants to talk about being at the Riddle House then we will but otherwise, I want conversation to be simple and calm. I mean, she knows what happened and the three of us have talked but that's it."
"Okay. I told Hermione what happened when she wasn't there and when she passed out because she wanted to know but that's all she needs to hear right now, right?" Harry nodded.
"How about this? When both are better, as in out of bed and no weakness or problems, we'll sit down together and talk about it, okay? I'll tell them both about the prophecy." Harry got an uneasy feeling in his stomach at saying this. He hated telling Ron that night at St. Mungo's, not because he didn't want anyone to know, but because he hated talking about it. The thought of it made him angry and worried. Ron seemed to notice this and raised his eyebrow.
"I'm fine." Ron studied him for a moment.
"Okay. Once they're all better, we'll tell them."
"I think I need to talk to Neville about that Lestrange woman that died when Voldemort accidentally killed her." Harry explained about their friends coming to visit and Neville asking him about it. Ron nodded sadly.
"I wonder what Neville thinks about it." Harry shrugged.
"Hey Ron. When we go back to lessons Monday, we'll have to go back to our dorms too, huh? We can't stay in here anymore."
"Why not? We can do our work in here and come back in every night after dinner. I don't want Ginny to have to be here all alone, all the time. Bloody Hell, I'm worried about Hermione alone there even though there're nurses and Healers."
"Okay, we'll just subtly come in each night then Pomfrey won't be able to say anything. Ah, who am I kidding, she can say anything whenever she wants. But we'll try anyway." Ron nodded and they headed to their beds to sleep.
Author's Note: Okay, things will start to speed up now. This fic is almost over then I'll start the next part of the series. Nothing else to say I don't think. Until next time! Hey, I broke 500 reviews!!
Individuals:
EVILMWHAA HA HA HA HAA: Well, I'm glad you're still sane! Yes, I thought up the ring myself –blushes-glad you liked it. Thanks!
Goldfish r yummy: Thanks! Lol, well, her parents are leaving soon!
Drummergrl427: Thank you! You'll find out about the pregnancy soon!
Weaslypotter: Lol, I know, registering is great! Thanks, I'm glad you liked it! Yeah, I think Hermione was a little too tough for just being in a coma so now she's sleeping!
MsMissProngs: Lol, I know, you don't have to wait a long time in between updates. I'm going about a chapter a week!
NetMarie: Hey, I hope you like it! I think you meant to type more than 1 page but anyway...Thanks for reading!
J. S. Writer: Thanks! Lol, everyone is mad at Hermione's parents! I love it! Don't worry, they're out of the picture for a while. I do feel like their anger is sort of justified since Hermione has been through a lot of dangerous ordeals. Thank you again!
'Mione Weasley: Well, I was answering for two of your reviews so it was really long! Lol, thanks! I liked Ron's little imaginings too. Yeah, I thought it'd be fun if Hermione already knew about the ring for a little twist. Oh honey, I never had a doubt in my mind they'd get married. Don't worry about her parents. I'm tired of them so they're leaving for a while. Yes, he can't snog her senseless right now but when she's better...well, you'll see...Actually I have no plans per say about that but I will of course have to make them snog when she can. I hope you can get your chapter out soon! Bye!
Magnolia Lane: Lol, I like that too (about the in law fighting) but they'll be leaving soon and not reappear for a while. They are quite a pain and though I like them being a pain, I'm tired of them now. About the red- headed babies...Let's just say I don't think I have the heart to not...
Shortywithbrains: Thanks. : ) Lol, I liked his little convo to himself too. I don't know, the writer's block comes and goes but I will conquer it, fear not!
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Author's Note: Hey all! I just wanted to say thanks to everyone who has stuck with this fic and me even when I hadn't updated for like a month! Thank you all! Anyway, Pen Richmond pointed out to me that I spelled DENTURES wrong in the last chapter. I spelled it denchers. So, thanks to her! Okay, chapters are fairly short now because this fic is almost done with but then there's the next part of my series to come. It will be of summer and seventh year, like I've said. Then I'll probably continue with life after Hogwarts and I'll most likely go back to the time before Telling Ron and have a prequel talking about Ron realizing he liked Hermione, ahem loved, and stuff like that. So, it's turning out to be a five part series. I'm sharing this because I've told two other people and thought all my readers should know. Okay, on with the chapter!
Chapter 24: Doogen?
Ron slid slowly down the wall next to Hermione's door onto the floor. He took a deep breath and dropped his head into his hands. If only her parents would leave, he'd feel much more relaxed and definitely less annoyed. They just had to keep bringing up bad issues and make Hermione cry. Of course, he'd made her cry plenty of times but he would never out right say she could die. Hell, Hermione already knew it. Or maybe he had mentioned it to her before...still, bloody parents. He heard footsteps coming toward him and looked up to see Mina. She sat in front of him and smiled comfortingly.
"Everything okay?" He nodded unconvincingly. "Come on, what is it?"
"It's just been a terrible week."
"It's never pleasant to be in hospital."
"I'm not even the one in hospital."
"Visiting isn't a picnic either. Especially when it's your girlfriend. Anything I can do?"
"Deny her parents entrance to her room." She laughed.
"Sorry, honey, no can do. I heard them say though that they hoped Hermione would wake soon because they were tired of being here everyday. They won't come every day before she leaves here. They wanted her awake for good reasons but also so they don't have to visit anymore."
"I never knew they were like that."
"Oh, you can't ever know how someone is unless you've known them for a little while. Appearances mean nothing at all. Now, you look perfectly nice from a distance but you could be a rude, obnoxious arse." Ron chuckled.
"I am a rude, obnoxious arse." She laughed.
"Well, you know what I mean." He nodded. She patted his shoulder and stood up. "See you later, honey."
"Bye."
Ron relaxed back into the wall and closed his eyes. As he thought for a few moments, he smiled. In a few months, they would all be in Grimmauld Place. It would be hard for Harry but at least everyone would be together, where he knew they were safe. He could see Hermione every single day. Harry would have his best friends and Ginny to keep him company. To his immense dislike, Malfoy would be there too but Ron would make sure he stayed far away from them. It wasn't as if Malfoy wanted to hang around them anyway. The door opened next to him and he looked up. Healer Doogle smiled down at him.
"Hello Ron."
"Hi Healer...Doogen?" He suddenly couldn't remember.
"It's Doogle. It's a strange name, I know. It was Doogley but my father changed it because he thought it would sound better. It doesn't but oh well. You can go in now." He stood up.
"How is she?"
"She's doing very well. Her movements are still small and weak and her heart rate is a bit off but otherwise she's all right. She needs bed rest for a while longer. We can move her to the Hogwarts infirmary in a few days I'd imagine."
"And what about later? Like when she wants to get pregnant?"
"I feel pretty confident she can but I will have a final analysis on that tomorrow morning. I'd rather do it when visitors are not here so I will test her tonight when you all leave." Ron nodded. "Now, when she was asleep, multiple visitors were fine but I do not want Hermione to become too excited or distressed. I am requesting one at a time. You may go in now but her parents will have to have their turn when they come back. I will go inform them of this now. So, only calm, quiet conversation right now, please." She pushed the door open for him and he walked in.
"Hi," Hermione said. She was lying on her side, her arms under her head with the blankets pulled up to her shoulder. Her hair was like a second pillow underneath her, while some of it ran down her cheek to her shoulder. She smiled at him calmly. He thought she looked beautiful.
"Hi, Love. How are you feeling?"
"A little tired, probably from the crying with my mum. How are you?" He sat down next to her and leaned his head against the top of her bed.
"I'm fine. I just sat outside against the wall."
"Sounds fun."
"You've no idea," he rolled his eyes.
"So, what else have I missed since I've been sleeping?"
"Well, there are a few things you'll need to know eventually but not now. We aren't supposed to talk about anything distressing."
"Then, it's distressing news?"
"Yeah...I think it would upset you a bit." Malfoy staying at Grimmauld Place, Harry's fate, and Harry's talk with Dumbledore weren't happy things to talk about in his opinion.
"When will you tell me?" He shrugged.
"When you've rested for a while. I want you to get better quick and thinking happy thoughts is the way to go I reckon." She ran her hand through his hair.
"Okay. Let's talk about that little conversation you were having as I woke up earlier." Ron's face turned red.
"Or how about school? Quills? Crookshanks! Let me tell you about Crook-" Hermione laughed loudly.
"But I can't remember what you and 'I' were saying," she said in mock curiosity. "Something about you being the best looking bloke in school? And having a nice long snog? Or...more?" He coughed uncomfortably and shrugged, leaning back in his chair.
"I've no idea what you're talking about."
"Then why are you redder than a quaffle?"
"Well, Hermione, who doesn't get uncomfortable talking about snogging...and more," he finished quietly.
"You certainly don't!"
"Okay, okay, I was having a little conversation with myself pretending to be you because I would get bored sitting here by myself while you were in the coma! Is that so wrong?"
"You are too easy, Ronald Weasley," she laughed. He rolled his eyes. She grinned at him as his face color faded back to normal. Without taking her eyes off his, she laced her hand in his. They kept eye contact for several minutes, Ron feeling how wonderful it was to look at her again and have her look back. His other hand slowly reached to her face and smoothed her hair away then gently caressed her cheek. She scooted herself up into a slightly higher position. Their gaze never broke until they leaned into each other. As their lips met, their eyes closed. She held his wrist with her free hand and unlaced the other to run it through his hair. He slid forward in his chair and laid a kiss on her chin, then her jaw, and over below her ear. She sighed contentedly; reveling in the smell she loved so much from him. She put her arms around his neck and he wrapped his round her waist, and buried his face in her hair.
"I'm so glad you're here," she whispered as they held each other close. He murmured in agreement.
"I love you." He felt a wet droplet fall on his shoulder. He pulled back to see tears falling down her cheeks. "What is it? Are you okay? Does something hurt?" She shook her head and hugged him again. "Then what is it?"
"I don't know. I just feel like crying."
"Oh..." Why did girls cry for no reason? (AN: I'm a girl so I know I cry sometimes for no real reason but guys don't really get that do they?)
"I'm just happy to be here with you. You know, I heard you once while I was in my coma. It sounded really far away though. I wanted to talk to you but couldn't. I hate not being able to hear you or talk to you." (AN (again): I read somewhere that people may be able to hear what's happening around them when they're in a coma so yeah.)
"You heard me?"
"I think so."
"Blimey. Well, now we're together and we get to be together for a long time. We get to live in Grimmauld Place and we live together at Hogwarts. I'm going to take really good care of you when you leave here." She kissed his cheek.
"Okay." She leaned back into her pillows and took his hand tightly in hers. He wiped away the last few tears from her cheeks. She yawned softly.
"Hey, you should sleep. I've tired you out already."
"No, no, it isn't your fault. I just need a little nap." She slid down into her sheets and adjusted her pillow. He made to take his hand from hers but she held it. "You aren't leaving are you?"
"No! I thought you wanted to sleep though?"
"Yes, but you can still hold my hand."
"Okay, sorry." She smiled and closed her eyes. Ron leaned back in his chair without releasing his hand. He watched her until her breathing became heavy and regular. Slowly, her hand fell out of his and hung loosely out of her bed. He took it gently and placed it next to her body. He felt his eyes growing tired and closed them as he put his head back against his chair.
Outside the room, Mrs. Granger put a hand to her mouth and turned to her husband.
"Oh," she sighed. "Did you hear that? As much as I hate to admit it, that was sweet. They're really in love." Mr. Granger nodded grimly.
"We have to leave them alone and stop badgering the boy about his life. She fits in."
"We'll come back tomorrow and say good bye. Later in the summer we can visit her at that safe house. For now though, he can help her more than we can." She sobbed and sighed again.
"It may have been a mistake letting her in this world but it's too late now. Come on, let's go." Mr. Granger put his arm around his wife's shoulder and led her down the hall.
Mina came around the corner and chuckled to herself. 'It takes the muggles so long to understand,' she thought to herself as she put the silencing charm back on the door. She opened Hermione's door enough to peek in and saw Hermione sound asleep with Ron next to her in his chair, mouth open and snoring gently. 'How cute.'
--(In case the asterisks don't show up)
Harry slept in unusually late that morning and woke to find Ginny writing out notes on a long bit of parchment. Books were strewn all over her bed. He dressed in the loo and ate while she finished up her work then they played a game of chess. Later that afternoon after lessons were over, Madam Pomfrey came in and cleared her throat.
"You have visitors. They've tried coming up quite a few times this week. I suppose it would be all right now. It will be a quick visit though. She opened the door and Neville, Dean, Seamus, Parvati, Lavender, and Luna came in. Madam Pomfrey walked to her office and closed the door.
"Harry!" Seamus exclaimed and patted his shoulder. "How are you mate?" He nodded a greeting at Ginny.
"I'm pretty good, you?"
"Well, we're all fine but we've been wondering what happened to you and everyone else. Where're Ron and Hermione?" he asked looking around. Lavender and Parvati were fussing over Ginny and Luna stood next to Neville, staring in Harry's direction but he couldn't tell if she was actually looking at him.
"Hey, everyone, pull up some chairs. Sit down," Harry said. "Anyway, Ron and Hermione are at St. Mungo's."
"Hermione still in a coma?"
"Yeah, how'd you know?" (He doesn't know she woke up yet.)
"Dumbledore made an announcement the morning after it happened. How are you Ginny?" Seamus turned to her.
"I'm feeling a lot better actually. Standing up still makes me dizzy though and walking too long makes me tired."
"You still have to do work though?" Parvati asked, noticing the pile of books and parchment on the floor beside Ginny's bed.
"Yes, the parts that aren't strenuous. Basically, all the essays."
"That's terrible! You should be resting!" Ginny giggled.
"Well, I'm resting while I work."
"Still, you're in hospital!"
"How is Ronald taking it?" Luna piped up.
"Well, he's depressed about Hermione. Apparently her parents have been real pains and he has to sit and watch Hermione in her coma all day long. He doesn't have to of course but he does anyway."
"She'll wake up soon though," Luna continued.
"How do you know? It could be a long time," Dean said. Luna just shook her head.
"You know Hermione."
"Yeah, well hopefully," Harry said.
"So, I don't mean to pry but...can you say anything about what happened to you guys?" Seamus asked.
"What all did Dumbledore say?" Harry asked.
"He said that you'd had another run in with You-Know-Who and Hermione was in a coma, Ginny was stuck in bed and you and Ron would be out of class a week to recuperate."
"Ginny, you okay if I tell a little?" She nodded. Harry took a breath and thought of what he could say without angering himself and upsetting anyone. "Okay, Ginny was kidnapped and taken to a house and the three of us went to get her and a lot of stuff happened and Hermione got hit with a curse and eventually we all got back. Hermione went straight to St. Mungo's and Ginny came here. She'd been hit the Cruciatus Curse a lot." They all stared back at him sadly.
"What was Hermione hit with?" Lavender asked in a whisper.
"Don't know, something that messed up her organs and stuff and put her into a coma."
"Oh no," Parvati breathed.
"Harry...how did she-er, Bellatrix Lestrange- die?" Neville asked. "I read it in The Prophet that she was killed." Harry opened his mouth. He hadn't thought about that. Neville would want to know about Lestrange since she had tortured his parents.
"Oh, uh Voldemort," most of the group shivered, "accidentally killed her." Neville nodded.
"Okay." He didn't say anything else. No one but Harry and Ginny in the room knew about Neville's parents. Luna put a hand on his arm. Harry wondered if she knew. Neville seemed comforted by the gesture and smiled weakly at her. There was a lull in conversation but Seamus picked up on it pretty quickly.
"So, when're you coming back to class, Harry?"
"Monday."
"And Ginny?"
"I don't know yet," she answered. "I may not have to do all the exams at the end of the year depending on my strength. Unfortunately, I think I'll be well by then."
"You could pretend," Seamus suggested.
"I think Madam Pomfrey would know though." Seamus shrugged.
The group continued to chat until dinner and Seamus, Dean, Parvati, Lavender, Neville, and Luna left. Ginny took a nap until Ron came back that night at nine. The pop noise of him returning woke her.
"She's awake!" Ron told them. "She woke up this morning."
"Really Ron?" Ginny asked. "Oh thank goodness!"
"How's she feeling?" Harry asked.
"She felt pretty good all day then her Healer did a quick examination on her and we talked then she fell asleep until about fifteen minutes ago. I told her I had to leave soon and she got all teary-eyed. I think she doesn't want to be in the room alone or something. I promised to be back right at eight tomorrow though. She still seemed upset." His face was furrowed in worry as he sat down heavily on his bed.
"Maybe she's scared," Ginny said.
"Yeah," Ron sighed. "What about next week when we have to go back to class and she's going to be there all by herself all day?"
"Aren't her parents there?"
"Well, actually, they never came back in after her Healer came. I don't like her being there just with them though. They'll probably put all these anti-wizard ideas in her head."
"Ron, you really think Hermione will be persuaded that easily?" Ginny asked.
"I suppose not. Still, I want to stay with her until she comes back here."
"When will that be?"
"I don't know. Soon but not tomorrow or anything."
"So, how was it when she woke up?" Ginny asked, smiling. Ron blushed slightly.
"Er, it was good," he said, deciding not to mention his fake conversation. "She scared me to death though, 'cause I didn't know her eyes were open or anything. Then her parents came in and made her all upset." Ron relayed the conversation they had and told them what he still hadn't told her. "Anyway, she has to rest a while and not get too excited or depressed so I don't want to tell her anything upsetting yet. Ginny, you should go back to sleep." Ginny's eyes were beginning to droop as he was speaking and she nodded. She sank down into her sheets and Harry came and pulled her blanket up. He kissed her lips quickly and she touched his cheek before closing her eyes.
Ron motioned for Harry to go to the end of the room with him and they stood across from each other.
"Have you told Ginny about the prophecy yet?" Ron asked quietly. Harry shook his head.
"I'm not going to until she's completely better. We haven't talked about anything like that. If she wants to talk about being at the Riddle House then we will but otherwise, I want conversation to be simple and calm. I mean, she knows what happened and the three of us have talked but that's it."
"Okay. I told Hermione what happened when she wasn't there and when she passed out because she wanted to know but that's all she needs to hear right now, right?" Harry nodded.
"How about this? When both are better, as in out of bed and no weakness or problems, we'll sit down together and talk about it, okay? I'll tell them both about the prophecy." Harry got an uneasy feeling in his stomach at saying this. He hated telling Ron that night at St. Mungo's, not because he didn't want anyone to know, but because he hated talking about it. The thought of it made him angry and worried. Ron seemed to notice this and raised his eyebrow.
"I'm fine." Ron studied him for a moment.
"Okay. Once they're all better, we'll tell them."
"I think I need to talk to Neville about that Lestrange woman that died when Voldemort accidentally killed her." Harry explained about their friends coming to visit and Neville asking him about it. Ron nodded sadly.
"I wonder what Neville thinks about it." Harry shrugged.
"Hey Ron. When we go back to lessons Monday, we'll have to go back to our dorms too, huh? We can't stay in here anymore."
"Why not? We can do our work in here and come back in every night after dinner. I don't want Ginny to have to be here all alone, all the time. Bloody Hell, I'm worried about Hermione alone there even though there're nurses and Healers."
"Okay, we'll just subtly come in each night then Pomfrey won't be able to say anything. Ah, who am I kidding, she can say anything whenever she wants. But we'll try anyway." Ron nodded and they headed to their beds to sleep.
Author's Note: Okay, things will start to speed up now. This fic is almost over then I'll start the next part of the series. Nothing else to say I don't think. Until next time! Hey, I broke 500 reviews!!
Individuals:
EVILMWHAA HA HA HA HAA: Well, I'm glad you're still sane! Yes, I thought up the ring myself –blushes-glad you liked it. Thanks!
Goldfish r yummy: Thanks! Lol, well, her parents are leaving soon!
Drummergrl427: Thank you! You'll find out about the pregnancy soon!
Weaslypotter: Lol, I know, registering is great! Thanks, I'm glad you liked it! Yeah, I think Hermione was a little too tough for just being in a coma so now she's sleeping!
MsMissProngs: Lol, I know, you don't have to wait a long time in between updates. I'm going about a chapter a week!
NetMarie: Hey, I hope you like it! I think you meant to type more than 1 page but anyway...Thanks for reading!
J. S. Writer: Thanks! Lol, everyone is mad at Hermione's parents! I love it! Don't worry, they're out of the picture for a while. I do feel like their anger is sort of justified since Hermione has been through a lot of dangerous ordeals. Thank you again!
'Mione Weasley: Well, I was answering for two of your reviews so it was really long! Lol, thanks! I liked Ron's little imaginings too. Yeah, I thought it'd be fun if Hermione already knew about the ring for a little twist. Oh honey, I never had a doubt in my mind they'd get married. Don't worry about her parents. I'm tired of them so they're leaving for a while. Yes, he can't snog her senseless right now but when she's better...well, you'll see...Actually I have no plans per say about that but I will of course have to make them snog when she can. I hope you can get your chapter out soon! Bye!
Magnolia Lane: Lol, I like that too (about the in law fighting) but they'll be leaving soon and not reappear for a while. They are quite a pain and though I like them being a pain, I'm tired of them now. About the red- headed babies...Let's just say I don't think I have the heart to not...
Shortywithbrains: Thanks. : ) Lol, I liked his little convo to himself too. I don't know, the writer's block comes and goes but I will conquer it, fear not!
Punkbanana13: Oh, I'm so glad you didn't die! Lol, hope you liked the chapter! Thanks!
Silver Warrior: I know, isn't it? Thanks!
Harry-potter-luvs-me: I know, it's great, huh? Yay! Glad you liked the denchies! Thank you!
Legofiance: Ah, thanks so much!
Arwentheelf: Thank you very much! I'm not sure this chapter was as good but I know it wasn't better. Hope it was okay though!
Hp/charmed obsesed: Thanks! Hey, I forgot you had written another story. I'll go read it soon! Fine, I won't comment on the short chapter but I just looked at it and sheesh!
Penelope Richmond: You're right, it's dentures-smacks self in head-. Oh well. But yes, she's awake. We can all do a little happy dance and celebrate! Lol, thanks hun! Bye!
Celeste5: Thanks! You haven't read the fourth or fifth books yet? Oh My God! I couldn't wait to read them! So I guess a lot of things have spoiled for you huh? Sorry but it just means you need to read! Thanks again!
Visi0n0fDeath: Already sent you a reply to this but thanks times a million anyway! I still can't get over your review!
DorkiiPunkPrincess: Thanks again for your awesome review! I loved it, loved it, loved it! You're so awesome! Thanks!