A/N: Erm… nothing to say really, in this author's note. Oh! Merci to my four reviewers. (One must always remember to thank the readers). That said, here's chapter three.

Wait, before I get to that, I just noticed I don't have a disclaimer for this story. Whoops!

Disclaimer: I do not own any Harry Potter characters, locations, or anything else; it all belongs to JK Rowling.

I Never Lived

Chapter 3

The trio spent the night at the Weasley home as Harry wanted, but the next day he traveled to his destinations by himself. He had made a plea to Hermione & Ron to let him go to the Dursleys' alone, and did so in the Ministry's case as well. They agreed, and Hermione revealed that she'd spend the day with her parents.

Vernon and Petunia Dursley were nothing short of baffled to see Harry on their doorstep, for about the 1000th time. But there was something different about the dark haired boy they had grudgingly taken in, something… else. Did he give off an air of confidence? Resolution? Finality? Whatever it was, it rather unnerved the married couple. Vernon pondered—demanded—as to why Harry was back early, and rudely pointed out that Dudley not present.

"I'm just here to collect my things." Harry flatly answered.

"Collect?" Petunia wondered, brows drawn.

"Hang on—d'you mean—" his uncle quickly began.

"I'm leaving, permanently." The Boy Who Prevailed then made his way into the house that had tormented him for 16 years and up to his room. There was not much left to take, but when he did have everything, he walked out of the small room without a second glance. His aunt and uncle stood in the living room with odd expressions on their faces; she was unreadable, but he looked overjoyed.

"I doubt I'm ever coming back," Harry told them, "I have no reason to. Sorry I was such a burden. You know, by simply breathing."

"Where are you going?" Vernon asked chirpily, a broad grin on his face.

"To live with my own kind," he smartly responded, "You can tell Dudley I said goodbye." He turned on his heel and prepared to leave his fortress of abuse, but his aunt suddenly cried out:

"Wait!" Harry stopped. Petunia walked stiffly over to her nephew and gave him an inelegant hug. She did all of this without making eye contact; her husband was shocked.

"Well, go on, then," she snapped, putting space between them again. Harry studied her before nodding.

"Bye," he said. He then left Privet Drive.

When Harry arrived at the Ministry of Magic, slight chaos erupted. Wizards began screaming his name and cheered as they all rushed to bombard him. Thankfully this did not last too long; Albus Dumbledore came along with Amelia Bones and rescued him. They went to Bones' office where they were secluded, and began their discussion of Voldemort. Dumbledore had related much to the Minister, so Harry did not have to say as much as he had thought.

When they were finished, there was no denying Bones' happiness. She, like everyone else, was allowed to feel safe and uplifted again now that Voldemort was dead, and reveled in that comfort. She thanked Harry profusely, exalting him for a moment, and then started to list what the Ministry was doing in order to show its gratitude. He would be receiving the Order of Merlin, First Class and 250,000 Galleons. When Bones brought up the possibility of his own Chocolate Frog card, Harry was horrified. However, it was when a sentence containing the words, 'a Harry Potter day' came out, that he put his foot down in a hurry.

"No, no," he insisted, shaking his head, "Absolutely not! No. That's just… crossing the line! NO. Never." He shuddered at the thought. A Harry Potter day…. Some things should never be suggested.

It was an adventure trying to leave the Ministry unnoticed, or in one piece. But Harry would rapidly come to learn that his fame had tripled in size and that his actions had caused a non-stop celebration in his world. When Harry was back at the Burrow, he told Ron and Ginny all about his meeting with Bones. (Hermione had yet to return from her outing). They replied they knew, and gave him a day old copy of the Daily Prophet. The main story featured Harry, was four pages long, and named all of the Ministry's gifts. In fact, many of the articles had Harry as the main focus and it made him uncomfortable.

Harry, Ron, and Hermione stayed two more nights at the Burrow before going over to Grimmauld Place, much to protest from Mrs. Weasley. The house was indeed odd now; it was definitely more silent and less crowded. With the Order of the Phoenix being on prolonged hiatus, things seemed out of place. That wasn't to say that the manor was completely deserted, however. (Remus continued to live there and numerous wizards stopped by to visit). It was simply less active and full of people as it had been in previous days.

The three wizards who stayed at Grimmauld Place the most were Ron, Harry, and Remus. Hermione took up residence every other week. After her first night there, the Grangers made their daughter promise to spend at least half of the vacation at her original home, and so she consented. The boys went to the Burrow frequently and Ginny would travel to Sirius' old abode when Hermione was present.

Although Harry and Hermione had been together for almost two weeks after his fight with Voldemort, they had not been alone or really had the opportunity to. On their first night at Grimmauld Place, they decided it had been long enough and chose to rectify it. As she had done in their last few weeks at Hogwarts, Hermione crept up to Harry's room (after one o'clock) and slept in his bed. Their reunion had been overdue, and absolutely full of desire. She had been so jubilant and thankful with the fact that Harry was actually alive, and there with her, that she let him do practically anything he wanted. Despite what their emotions were telling them that heated night, both fell asleep with their virginity still intact, but Harry had been able to eagerly explore a bare-chested, lovely brunette.

The first task the trio focused on in its beginning days of freedom was its future. With Voldemort gone, anything and everything seemed attractive and possible to Harry. Indeed, he often times found himself in a mini-trance, trying to comprehend the fact that he was liberated, could now live. Ron was the first with an idea of what to do with himself: he told them he wanted to work in the Ministry.

"Well, the department is in the Ministry, anyway," he reported, "Magical Games and Sports… I want to work for the Chudley Cannons! Not be on the team, mind you, just work for it. Then, one day, I'll hopefully be a manager!"

"Ron, that's great," Harry replied, "But, do you have any connections? I reckon it's hard to get a job with a professional Quidditch team."

"That's the thing—one of their supervisors knows Fred and George! Yeah! He's been in their shop a couple of times, was impressed, and they told him about me and how I've been a fan since I could walk. He, Ikenberry's his name, said he wouldn't mind speaking to me! So, I've got a meeting with him in two weeks." The other two were quite happy for their friend, but not so sure about themselves.

Harry was back to contemplating over an Auror or Quidditch career, and was noticeably pressed for time this go round; he had roughly two weeks. While he struggled over that, Hermione dove into doing heavy research on wizarding book businesses. Harry received information from the Quidditch League, and it appeared as if every team wanted him as a member. He seriously considered the two professions and reasons why to choose one over the other. Yes, he loved Quidditch and thought the idea of playing professionally was magnificent. He also contended that he deserved it, but gloomily noted it would bring more fame. There was the job of being an Auror… stopping dark wizards. But hadn't he just defeated the darkest of them all? And part of the reason Harry had originally wanted to be an Auror was to stop Voldemort….

But that didn't mean another couldn't rise, or try to pick up where Riddle had left off. That thought unnerved Harry. Besides, I've wanted to be an Auror for much longer. And so, he came to the conclusion that he would carry his goal out and be an Auror. The Department of Magical Law Enforcement was positively ecstatic. He went with an appropriate application, but the (then) Head, Henry Roberts, told him it was useless—he was accepted on the spot. No doubt, Harry was surprised. When he asked about the training, he was told he did not have to go through with it. He knew why this was the case, and, vastly perturbed, insisted he have it. Just because he had gotten rid of Voldemort didn't mean he was perfectly fit to be an Auror; he still needed magical teaching.

With Ron and Harry secure with jobs (for Ron had snagged an opening position with his favorite Quidditch team), Hermione was the last to decide her future. It actually took her until the very end of July to find her niche, but the wait had been worth it. She had bitterly complained that no book companies encompassed the two worlds of Muggle and wizard together, and for this reason wizards were unaware, ignorant, and even hostile when it came to non-magical people. She claimed that she merely wanted people to learn, and perhaps even have tolerance.

"I should create my own shop," she commented one lunch.

Hermione basically did just that. A witch in the Department of International Magical Cooperation introduced her to an old, high-ranking, wealthy witch by the name of Gladys Tomain. Ms. Tomain had been an avid advocator in her younger years for all beings in the wizarding community, especially Muggles and Muggleborns. Hermione was honored to meet her, having of course known much about the pureblood, and poured forth her concept for a bookstore called Books, Bludgers & Batteries.

"It would have Muggle books, wizarding books, books about Muggles, books about wizards, and it could even serve as an agency for the rights of non-wizards!"

Tomain was so awed by the idea and the inventor that she agreed to do business with the young witch. She retired from her Ministry job and contributed the funds necessary to start the franchise (that would come to be pointedly successful). Hermione was so exhilarated, she appeared to be imperishably radiant. Everyone was terribly proud of her, but not precisely shocked—this was, after all, Hermione.

About the same time as the three were figuring out their careers, they went to the Ministry in order to get their Apparation licenses. It took about a month of intense practice, but they all were capable of Apparating by the onset of August. The Ministry had wanted to just hand Harry his license, but it even saw the necessity for proper education. (They couldn't have the Boy Who Prevailed splinch himself).

Harry, cheerful that Ron was his best friend once more, brought up the topic of sharing a flat in the middle of July, though rather timidly. Ron practically jumped out of his chair in his haste to say yes, and seemed to be mirthful for the remainder of the summer. (The two boys moved in a London, wizarding apartment five days before Harry's 18th birthday). His own place with his best friend… it was grand. All of Ron's brothers congratulated him on his path to maturity, but his mother was a different story. Molly was crushed to know her youngest son was leaving home, and that Ginny was the last child in the nest. The girl had, jokingly, observed she could move out as well since she would be 17 in August; Molly had rapidly squashed that theory.

"Not as long as you've got another year at Hogwarts," she flatly noted.

As for the school, in the beginning, certainty of it reopening its doors had not been stable. However, Dumbledore assured that Hogwarts would be open on the first of September as always. The grounds, clearly, had to be tended to, and were, during all of August. Remus Lupin left Grimmauld Place shortly after Harry and Ron did. He found a nice cabin in the countryside in which to live, and so the former Black residence was devoid of habitants. (Harry promised to visit the werewolf once a week).

Harry found that it was perfectly invigorating in having his own home and being able to provide for himself. Being an Auror was going to be indubitably difficult, but he liked knowing he was doing something worthwhile, could do something worthwhile. Consequently, the only thing wrong with his new life was that once he stepped foot outside, he was prone to having his photo taken or finding an article centered on him in a periodical. Ron and Hermione received an insane amount of attention from the press as well, initially the same as Harry. Since Harry blatantly refused to speak, the reporters seemed to double their efforts in seeking out his best friends. They were desperate to know from Hermione how her relationship with Harry was going & how he treated her, and from Ron, how he felt about the relationship and how it affected him.

The press eventually ceased directly addressing Hermione and Ron, helped by threats from made from Harry, but it did not quit its pursuit of them; it was as if anything Harry came in contact with was priceless. It took some time, but the paparazzi slowly began leaving Hermione & Ron alone, and instead, reverted back to focusing mainly on Harry. What the former Seeker did not know, on the other hand, was how much attention other witches were giving Hermione, good, bad, and in between.

Many women berated her, saying she wasn't worthy of Harry Potter, the Dark Lord slayer, while others praised her for being there for Harry. Some females were frank, and asked rather personal questions about her relationship. Indeed, she remembered a certain conversation with her two co-workers Natalie Pellman and Talia Noi, whom, at that time, she had only known for two months.

"So," Natalie prompted as they sat in the lounge, eating lunch, "What is Harry Potter like in bed? Every witch is dying to know." Hermione had gagged on her drink as Talia giggled, smiling. She didn't know how to respond, or if she even wanted to. Hermione had felt horribly awkward because she was only 18 compared to Natalie's 23 (Talia was, then, 22), and, in essence, was rather like her boss. (She was the co-founder of Books, Bludgers & Batteries). By that time she and Harry had had sex, and multiple times, but that didn't mean she was ready to give the world details. Nevertheless, as Hermione glanced frantically at them, she felt as though she could trust the young women. They appeared sincere, and had proven themselves friendly.

"Um," Hermione said, playing with her loose hair, "Well, actually…," She looked at them, "He's amazing." Shrill, mirthful laughter then erupted accompanied by broad grins, and a friendship blossomed.

Hermione did not tell Harry about the recognition she received because she knew she could handle it, and it would only upset him more. Besides, it wasn't too dreadful. Originally the couple had been reluctant and cautious in displaying (open) affection, primarily for Ron's sake, but the two came to learn they had nothing to be weary of. Even so, they preferred to save their affection for when they were by themselves.

As for the trio's family and friends, they continued to play a major role in its life. The three alumni Gryffindors knew what they were up to and their doings, and even old classmates. For instance, Cho Chang worked for Witch Weekly and had since leaving Hogwarts a year before Harry. (Hermione thought her job was oh so fitting). David Rice and Ernie Macmillan both worked in the Department of International Magical Cooperation, whereas Neville Longbottom was in the Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes, although he was working under Professor Sprout doing Herbology research. (Conversely, Neville was continuing to date Hannah Abbott).

Seamus Finnigan, Department of Magical Transport, was still the boyfriend of Lavender Brown, Healer-in-training. Dean Thomas worked in the same department as Ron, Padma Patil concocted Potions for major buyers, and Parvati Patil worked for the Department of Mysteries. The trio had understandingly not had any contact with Draco Malfoy since leaving school, and had only heard rumors regarding him. Apparently the blonde had accepted his Quidditch League offer, but he was not really making himself known in any way. Harry suspected he was merely waiting for seven years to be up—the time in which exclusive Death Eaters could return to regular society.

The Ministry of Magic had, for some reason, decreed that the Death Eaters whom had escaped Azkaban the summer of Harry's 16th year, and who hadn't been in the attack against Hogwarts, might be able to come safely out of refuge in seven years, if they met certain guidelines. Since most had fought in the assault, and had either died or were thrown back in prison, that left two or three eligible. And because the most important guideline was that the Death Eater must have had a previously clean record, or done substantial work for the wizarding community, Harry knew Lucius Malfoy was be permitted to return. Whatever the government's reasons for passing the law, he thought it was purely ludicrous.

Mr. Weasley was completely outraged with this "absurd law that Malfoy somehow had passed just to favor him" as well, but had other things in his life to celebrate. Bill was married to Fleur Delacour, and Percy was married to his school girlfriend Penelope Clearwater. Fred was still seeing Angelina Johnson and Charlie jested that he'd better get a move on and make it Weasley marriage number three. (He had attested long ago that marriage was not appealing to him). Fred insisted he was too young, while Molly had other words.

"If that lovely girl knows what's good for her safety and sanity, she wouldn't dream of marrying Fred."

"And what is that supposed to mean!" the twin indignantly questioned as his family all laughed.

"That you're not exactly the… marrying type." Percy gingerly answered. He did not want to say what was really on his mind because his relationship with the twins was not yet fully repaired.

"Oh yeah? Well, she happens to think I'm very funny!"

"Sure, but most idiots are," grinned Ron. He had then spent the next week deflecting Fred's hexes and curses.

Harry and Hermione's defining moment came the night of Harry's 18th birthday, the night they lost their virginity to one another. They had made plans to do so their first night out of Hogwarts, but Harry had been unconscious in a hospital bed, so Hermione thought his birthday would be the best substitute.

She had been planning it about a week beforehand, and was incredibly nervous. She and Ron had coordinated a large party for him at Grimmauld Place and invited all of his wizarding kin; everyone showed up and it was very enjoyable. (She was adamant in Harry's friends not trying to sneak him alcohol, and managed to confiscate all they smuggled in). They were all much more exuberant than they could ever remember being, and it was probably simply because the person they were honoring had lived to see eighteen, and hopefully would see more years.

At midnight the party was over and most everyone had gone. Molly remained to clean up, and when Harry offered his assistance she shooed him away.

"Harry, it's your birthday dear! I know it's rather late, but if you're going to do anything else, go have fun," she replied. He knew for a fact that his school roommates and Fred & George were waiting for him in the kitchen so they could all Apparate to a pub and get him utterly drunk, but Hermione intercepted him on his way there.

After a short snog to show his appreciation for the party, they spoke.

"I want to give you your gift," she revealed. Memories of the previous Christmas surfaced in his mind.

"Yeah," he grinned, "Well, I suppose I can tell Ron I'll be about 15 minutes late to—"

"No, Harry," she interrupted, looking at him, "It… it should be longer than 15 minutes. I… I want tonight to be the night we…"

"Do it?" Harry finished, staring at her. Hermione nodded, beaming and blushing. He stared at her a little longer before kissing her, and whispering in her ear:

"Meet me at the flat." He prepared to Apparate and concluded that the pub could wait.

Harry made sure that his door was stubbornly secure and that noise could not exit or enter his room. He did not know when Ron would return and did not want to know. Harry brought up the issue of protection and Hermione guaranteed she had already handled it. (She had taken a potion two days earlier that prevented pregnancy). With nothing else to worry about, the two became engulfed with each other.

As Harry now recalled their first night together, it elicited good memories, and how it had commenced made him laugh. At the time, however, he had been slightly ashamed. Hermione had guided Harry through many things during their period at Hogwarts, and she aided him that night as well (though he later proved he could perform well without her help).

"Right… right there," she breathed.

"Are you sure?" he inquired.

"Yes." Hermione confirmed, smiling and holding back a laugh. He was so unsure sometimes it was cute.

Harry pushed into her as carefully as he could without trying to convey his excitement and enthusiasm. She winced, eyes shut and biting her lip.

"Did I hurt you?" he quickly wondered.

"No, it's supposed to feel like that the first time," Hermione serenely told him, "Go on—move." Harry was frozen at this command, but after a couple of immobile moments he merely did what his bodily instincts were telling him, and began to move against her.

Hermione didn't respond immediately and still had her eyes closed, so he feared he wasn't doing something correctly. However, she started to rock her body underneath his in the same motion and started to bite her lip again. Somehow, though, it was different than before; was it a good sign? It wasn't until Hermione began to moan that Harry knew he was actually pleasing her and gained confidence.

After the bumpy beginning, Harry was in pure bliss. Sex felt wonderfully and he realized why it was talked about so much. As they neared their climax, they found out why that was one its titles. Harry, panting, thrusted in and out of Hermione with a mounting fervor he didn't even know he possessed, and frenetically deduced that sex was the single best thing in life. (All of his thoughts were frenetic at that point). Hermione, long having ceased directing him, was distractedly noting how incredible Harry was in every way, when she wasn't making small noises of enjoyment (which was often). And then, it came: the rapture. Harry felt his entire body tremble as he let himself go inside of Hermione, and gave small shout. She, in turn, arched her back, dug her fingers in his back, and omitted an extremely loud gasp.

Afterwards, he was significantly drained of energy. Harry lay tired against Hermione with closed eyes as his physiological functions slowly went back to normal, and he drunkenly marveled over how fantastic that had been. She was much the same and held him, while slowly stroking his hair and striving to keep her eyes from fluttering shut. Hermione and Harry had undeniably reached a new point in their relationship that night, and in their feelings for each other.

Harry had been fairly worn out when they had finished, and had been zoning in and out of consciousness, so he couldn't be entirely sure of a certain statement even being made. But he was willing to admit that the part that had meant the most to him was when Hermione had, as she hovered dangerously on the brink of sleep also, pensively told him:

"I love you."

A/N: That's pretty much all the background information I'm dishing out, but I still have about a page more to write so it will start chapter 4 off. I'm getting antsy to get back to writing the actual story so it will not be that long. Promise.

I know Hermione was born in 1979 and so is older than Harry, but she's not in this story. Lol. I didn't find that out until HBP, and thought it was weird! So I don't like it and am not incorporating it with my HP world.

I will definitely talk more about Draco, 'cause I love him, and he is even going to show up in the story. Yay Draco! I made Neville work in that department 'cause I think it's ironic; he's always the one having some sort of mishap and what not. And if you don't already know, I am a supporter of Fred and Angelina: hence, the penname AngelinaWeasley! I think they are muy cute together. Okay, next chapter next week. Orange socks and moldy newspapers!