A/n Damn, I debated and debated posting this now or waiting, building up a few chapters, or something. However, I promised, with this story, to post as I write 'em. This chapter was suck out me like a leech achieving a life goal. 😊 bad analogy I know. But this came out of nowhere! I was finished before I even realized I was half way there. BAM! Two updates in a week's time. (This will NOT be a normal occurrence) You're welcome! Enjoy!

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30 October, 1998

Hermione did her best to ignore the tight grip Sirius had on her hand. At first it was, she told herself, so he knew she would be unable to run away from him. Then it was so she could be tugged through the wards. Now, she didn't want him to let go. She was doing her best to not show her unease with her body. She was biting the inside of her cheek, trying to stop the tension that was threatening to make her body begin to shake. He hadn't let go, so, she justified to herself, she didn't have too either.

She knew now, Harry wanted her to be here, but she wondered if he'd be angry with her for not arriving sooner. Her heart pounded not letting her forget the uncertainty of the situation she was finding herself heading toward. On the hunt with Harry, not knowing, had proven to be deadly, this didn't feel much different.

The door of the huge house opened on its own, or possibly a house elf was responsible. The entry way was well lit, but empty of life. Hermione had expected to see her friend standing there with a smile on his face and laughing with disapproval in his body. The image caused her to smile, and her hand to soften her hold on Sirius's. She didn't have time to wonder when she had started squeezing his hand, because the sound of someone sprinting toward them echoed in the large open space.

"HERMIONE!" Harry rounded a corner and barreled into her sights, breath heaving with excitement. "Minty, said you were coming!" He cleared the space, wrapping his arms around her in a tight hug. "I'm so happy you could make it..." He mumbled into her hair, and Hermione knew how much her absence had upset her friend.

Sirius let go of her hand, and stood to the side, eyes laughing in the way they would sometimes, when he would pull one over on Mrs. Weasley. He'd looked over the older women's shoulder at Hermione with that look, and together they'd share a silent joke; while Mrs. Weasley made a fool of herself, unknowingly. She let the warmth of the memories burst from her chest and returned Harry's hug with just as much emotion.

"'Mione, you came." Ron was standing where Harry had come from, his hair was messy like he hadn't been bothered to brush it. He was dressed in casual muggle clothes, a t-shirt with some kind of nature design, and a pair of loose fitted blue jeans. He had a smile on his face, but there was a tightness to it that told her, he was still angry.

"Yes, Mister Black was quite insistent." She let Harry go slowly and walked towards him, trying to get a feel for what he wanted her to do. Ron's shoulder sagged and he chuckled lightly.

"I'm glad you're here." He wrapped his own arms around her and pulled her into his chest. Hermione sighed in relief, burying her nose in his smell of freshly cut grass.

Harry smiled at the exchange; happy to see his friends were not fighting like he had thought. Sirius, however, narrowed his eyes. Lily and James joined them shortly, smiling at the hugging couple. Neither took notice of Sirius's cold demeaner, or commented on him taking dinner in his room.

Much like the night before, they retired to the first-floor sitting room. Sirius promised Lily he would stop in later, after he had a few moments to relax after being around so many people. Ron took up the chess board, and James offered him a game. Lily took advantage of their distraction to speak one on one with Hermione, since Harry was watching the game unfold. James was a bit better than Harry, but still no match for Ron.

"So, Hermione, Harry's been telling me that you've been taking care of him since he was eleven." Hermione blushed and glanced at Harry, seeing how he reacted to his mother's question. When he stayed focused on the game, ignoring the women Hermione smiled.

"I guess if bullying him to do his assignments is taking care of him... I suppose I did." She tried to laugh, but Lily was looking at her with a thoughtful expression.

"I believe he said you took care of him by making sure he took his school seriously." Lily smiled than, eyes bright with affection. "Figured out the beast of Slytherin before ANY of the professors." Hermione looked at her hands face turning red.

"I was still petrified, so I'd say the beast and I are even." The two women settled into a companionable conversation about her school, and what Harry had left out so far. Hermione told her about Luna and Ginny, and how adorable they were. She started speaking about her efforts to strengthen house unity but faltered when she glanced at Ron. He wasn't paying attention to her, but Hermione did not want to spoil the good atmosphere.

"Harry, want to show Hermione her room? I imagine the journey was exhausting." The game must have ended because Ron, James, and Harry had all moved closer. Harry was fighting a yawn, which prompted the question. James smiled cheekily at Hermione. "I know Sirius can be a bit of a handful." Lily and James laughed. Harry winced, glancing between Ron and Hermione. Hermione blushed and looked away, busying her hands with bunching and straightening her school skirt.

"Where's 'Mione sleeping?" Ron's question was spoken in a tight tone, drawing the Potters out of their joke. James looked from Ron to his wife to Hermione with a question in his eyes. Lily's eyes blinked confused, hand innocently touching her chin.

"Near the Library, of course." She smiled and turned her eyes to Hermione who returned the smile. "I'm told she would die anywhere else."

"Oh, I'll move my stuff then." Ron went to stand and Hermione tensed, her eyes wide in a frenzied panic. They had shared a room briefly the few times she had stayed at the Burrow. It was comforting to not sleep alone so soon after the final battle. Harry and her had cuddled more than once after Ron left, giving comfort and warmth to each other. Mrs. Weasley also assumed she was sharing with Ginny, who usually was up the lane with Luna.

Sirius chose that moment to enter the room, face pale, skin around the eyes dark and sunken. He was still struggling to sleep. He froze, no one but him seeing the glare directed at him from the red head.

"Did I interrupt something?" He glanced at his friends, and saw Lily's eyes narrowed, and James, red in the face, eyes wide in surprise. Harry was also red, but was looking down at his hands, embarrassed by what was happening. Hermione was pale, upset. Sirius knew it. He didn't know how he knew, but he did. A memory flashed in his mind of Hermione standing alone in the library, stone still, pale, eyes red, and her hair almost deflated. His body tensed without his permission and his jaw loosened, the Grim inside him ready to bite who had upset her. Sirius had a good guess of who.

"I was just going to tell Hermione and Ron my rules about couples in MY house." James tensed next to his wife, but placed a hand on her knee showing his support. Harry glazed at his mother like she was a gift from Merlin himself. Hermione was looking down, but Sirius could see the slight shake of her shoulders, giving away her discomfort.

"Rules?" Ron turned to looked at the room, his body posture showing nothing but surprise. "Harry just said we have to ask the elves for stuff in the kitchen and stay together outside." Lily's eyes were burning. If Ron had half a brain he'd shut up.

"Oh yes, but you see, you aren't DATING Harry, are you?" She stood slowly, shoulders back. Sirius wanted to know what had happened to cause such a fierce protective response from her.

"No..." Ron was suddenly uncertain.

"Well, I don't permit unmarried couples to share rooms while in MY house." Sirius bit down hard on his jaw, he knew what had happened, and based on Hermione. She did not wish to share a room with him. From what Sirius knew of their relationship it had started after the war, and the two of them had spent almost no time together during the summer. He supposed that they could have while at school, but that seemed unlikely.

"'Mione doesn't mind." Ron shrugged, his eyes settling on his girlfriend. Hermione paled further, opening and closing her mouth several times in the span of seconds.

"My house, My rules." Lily cut off anything Hermione was intending to say, her tone a sickly sweet that left no question. "Neither of you will be alone together while in this house." Lily smiled as James came to stand beside her, his face stone in support of her choice. "Pureblood have a certain decorum that I'm sure your mother taught you." Ron's ears turned red at the mention of his mother and nodded in acceptance.

"I apologize." He bowed slightly, a vague lesson of Mrs. Weasley's flashing in his mind.

"Excellent." Lily clapped her hands together and turned to Harry, keeping James's hand on her shoulder. "Harry, would you show Hermione to her room? I'm sure everyone would like to head to bed." Harry nodded and offer Hermione his arm, surprising her. She fought down a smile, and slipped her hand into his elbow. The Pureblood etiquette Draco was slowly showing her, looked unreal with Harry.

"Thank you." Harry led Hermione out the door, and they could hear them climb the stairs, before Ron took his leave. James let out a long whistle, staring after the young red head. Sirius fully entered the room, hoping they would enlighten him of what occurred while he was gone. Lily huffed, hands on her hips.

"Minty!" The house elf appeared instantly. "Please watch Hermione, and inform me if Ron is alone with her at any time." The elf's eyes widened. Minty nodded rapidly.

"I wills be keeping Hermies safe." She added before popping away.

"I don't think everything is perfect in paradise." James sat down, letting out a breath.

"How dare he!" Lily growled. "Did he really think we would just sit here and let him move in with Hermione, when she was obviously uncomfortable with it!?"

"Lily-pad. We don't know their relationship. This maybe normal?" He cringed at his own words.

"I don't care." Lily stomped around the room, taking her anger out with every step. "It's not healthy!"

"As long as Hermione feels safe... that's the best we can do, Love." James tried to reason with Lily who was ready to rampage. "She's a grown woman... She has to make her own choices." Sirius was familiar enough with this mood, that he turned sharply and fled from the room. He managed to reach his room in recorded time. Ron was eating something and grumbling angrily to himself. Even with his heightened hearing Sirius couldn't make out any of it. He held his just slightly open door, trying to fight against the cold that seemed to immediate seep into his skin from his room. Ron's words died off, hidden behind the rush of blood in his ears. Taking a breath, Sirius swore to himself, he did it once; he will do it again and entered the room, shutting the door behind him.

Hermione entered her room alone, Harry wishing her a good night with a hug, and reminding her how happy he was that she changed her mind. She found her trunk at the base of the bed much like Hogwarts. She dressed in a pair of mid-thigh shorts and a large jersey; Harry gave her a long time ago while on the run. She took comfort in the few pieces of clothing she had from her friends.

She bit her lip, and glanced at the door before digging into the bottom of her trunk and pulling out a little purple velvet bag, inside the Black signet ring. It was cold in her hand, matching the dark color of metal it was formed from. She could never figure out what metal, despite her many attempts. The Crest of House Black was melted into the widest part of the ring. Hermione opened and closed her fist, feeling comfort from the weight of it in her hand.

When they had returned to Grimmauld at the beginning of their hunt for the Horcruxes, Hermione had spent more than a few hours exploring the house, in ways she had not been allowed too before. One such room was an office of sorts, untouched by anyone. She could not recall Mr. Weasley or anyone else mentioning the space. She'd like to pretend that it appeared just for her. A place to get away and clear her head after having a row with Harry or Ron.

Hanging on the back wall was an empty portrait, as if the person who occupied it had better things to do. The bookshelves housed several books that now lived in her beaded bag. A few she still needed to translate from French. There was a globe that opened and revealed several types of muggle liquor. Hermione had been surprised to see such a thing in the Black Family home. She tried a bit of each throughout their stay, but never shared. This was HER room, echoed in her mind, every time she thought it would be right to share. There were little trinkets and other useless things decorating the space. Hermione knew Walburga had no say in what happened to this space based on the sheer difference from the rest of Grimmauld. The large dark wood desk was where she found the ring. Sitting on a velvet pillow begging her to take it. So, she had.

She realized later taking an object of any kind that compelled her to, was not a good idea. This did not stop her from keeping the ring in her pocket, and eventually the velvet pouch, for weeks while on the run.

Hermione had intended to return the ring to Harry as soon as everything was said and done. Something stopped her, every time she tried. A warmth in her chest that whispered to her, not yet.

She was selfish to keep this little piece of his Godfather, and her friend, from Harry. She sighed, staring at the ring sitting on the center of her palm. She had never gotten up the courage to put it on. Mostly because she was worried about what would happen to someone not a Black. Slowly she placed the ring back into the little velvet pouch, and buried it back into her bead bag, in her trunk.

She fell asleep telling herself that tomorrow, she'd return the ring to Sirius Black, and it would be exactly where it belonged.

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31 October, 1998

Halloween arrived and left without a single tragedy. Hermione sat in the library reading, James, Harry, and Ron played Quidditch. Lily flew about on her broom, enjoying the crisp clear October morning. Sirius hid away in his room until dinner.

He sat in his chair several minutes late, and a dark cloud hovered over him. Hermione, Harry, and Ron were familiar with this mood. It usually led to the sound of glass smashing against walls, screams of pain, and howls of repressed memories. Harry had told Sirius he had gotten better as he lived away from the prison, but he never fully recovered before falling through the Veil in the Death Room.

"Pads?" James's voice was soft, filled with concern. Sirius gripped the table to tightly. Hermione wondered how it didn't snap under the pressure.

"I promised I be here for at least one meal, daily." His voice was strained. The emotion clear, he would rather be elsewhere.

"I know Pads, thank you." James swallowed and watched with sad eyes as his friend ate slowly, hunched over, trying to be as small as possible. The room was quiet after that, and Hermione knew that made it worse for Sirius. He finished less than half his plate and fled from the room. The conversation stayed stagnant, even as they retired to the sitting room. Harry was tense waiting for the shoe to drop. Ron was playing chess with Lily. James was a jittery mess and glanced constantly at the door, looking for his friend. Harry sat near Hermione with their shoulders touching, taking strength from the other's presence.

Harry escorted Hermione to her room just before ten, reassured that it was unlikely anything would occur in the last two hours of the day. Everyone quickly followed her lead and fell into their own bed.

Hermione tossed and turned for what felt like hours, before giving up on sleep and seeing if she could find some hot chocolate. Remus would make it for anyone who found themselves up late in the kitchen. Nightmares were a common place during the time spent in Grimmauld. Nightmares driven by the fear of what was to come. She smiled lightly, hopeful that she would finally have the chance to ask him for his mother's recipe. Remus's hot chocolate was unmatched.

She jerked to a stop at the sound of quiet sobbing. The sound was almost immediate cut off, as if a silencing charm was cast. Hermione abandoned her search for the warm comforting liquid and changed her course toward the sound.

The sitting room they had left early was closed, and Oreo was standing guard clearly upset.

"MISS! Yous needs to be being in bed." Oreo's voice was weighed down by the emotions he was experiencing.

"It's okay..." Hermione, pulled her dressing gowned tightly around herself, checking that the robe was in place. "Is it... is it Sirius?" The elf shifted from foot to foot, uncomfortable. "I can... I know how to help him." She reached for the door and was pleased when Oreo did not try to stop her.

The room was dark, the light from the night was filtering through clouds. Hermione could hear the light sobs, but couldn't pinpoint where they were coming from. She took a few more steps into the room, and let the door shut behind her, closing off the little bit of light from the hall. She called forth her little blue flames, willing them to dance around the room, lighting up the space enough to find Sirius.

He was curled into himself, faced buried in his knees. His hair was unkept, so unlike the Sirius she had met in the clearing where the Druid brought him back. He was wearing the clothes he had been wearing at dinner; they were even more ruffled. He was attempting to hide his sobs, by burrowing deeper into his legs. She knocked a bobble of some sort on the floor, and he jerked up, face tight with rage, eyes red from cry, lips twisted into a snarl.

"FUCK OFF JAMES..." It all vanished the moment he saw her. The rage was replaced with an emotion she couldn't place. "Hermione... You... you should be in bed." He sniffled, trying to pull the emotions into himself, to hide from her. She didn't move afraid he'd run from her. He had before. He took a deep breath and stood. She was mesmerized for a moment with his height. He wasn't as tall as Remus or Ron, but he was taller than both Harry and James. "I'm... okay, Love, go back to bed." Hermione huffed, cutting across the space, until she stood toe to toe with him and hesitated.

"Can I... Can I hug you?" Her voice was soft and beaming with warmth. Sirius's whole body went slack, and he wrapped his arms around her middle. He buried his face in her unruly hair, the action required him to almost bend in half. The top of Hermione's head came up just passed his mid chest.

"Is this... okay?" Sirius whispered into her ear. She nodded wrapping her own arms around his torso, squeezing tightly. They lost track of time standing wrapped in each other, giving much needed comfort. Hermione let the beating of his heart ease her, while he breathed in her scent.

"I... sometimes... I'd help you... when the nightmares were really bad..." Hermione pulled away from him slowly, waiting until he was ready to look into her eyes.

"How?" His voice was soft, brittle, one moment away from cracking. He was being vulnerable with her. She wondered for a moment if it was left over from the times, they gave comfort to each other in the life he was remembering.

"Here." She pulled away and sat on the lounger with one open side, knowing how tall Sirius was. He watched her get comfortable, before patting her lap. "Rest your head here." Sirius jerked into motion, something short circuited his brain and propelled him forward. He just knew this would help. Once his head was resting heavy on her lap, his body curled toward the room, Hermione began running her fingers lightly through his messy waves. He relaxed immediately. "Better?"

He grumbled out a noise she took as positive, and continued the motion. Every once in a while, she'd use her nails to scratch his scalp. She smiled when his breath evened out. She let the moment wash over her a bit longer before quietly calling for Oreo to ask for a blanket for Sirius. Oreo did even better; he brought her a hot chocolate, lit the fire, and brought a blanket. He also placed a pillow nearby in case Hermione needed it. She sipped her drink, letting Sirius sleep through the night for the first time.

Hermione was half curled into Sirius still asleep on her. Her hot chocolate cleared away by Oreo well before dawn. Her hand was still buried in the Marauder's hair, the other one was being used to prop up the pillow. She had fully moved onto the lounger with Sirius. The fire was still going, curtesy of Oreo. Sirius had been awake for several minutes, but refused to move a muscle before he had to.

He felt warm and safe for the first time while awaking since he started dreaming of Azkaban. He always woke up freezing and afraid. He had shifted closer to Hermione in his sleep, his head pressed more into her hip then on her lap. He had gripped her shins and pulled them into his chest. His arms wrapped around her knees, keeping them against him. His own legs were curled up, as if trying to surround the warmth he found himself pressed into.

"Pads?" James's voice cut through the haze of warm and comfort, reminding Sirius that he really should not be cuddled up with someone else's girlfriend, regardless of the intensions of everyone involved. He let out a slow grumble, awaking up more, ready to revolt, if James thought he was going to move a moment before he had to. "We let you sleep as long as we could..." James entered the room, closing the door behind him. "The boys are getting up..." He stopped just inside, not wanting to intrude.

Lily had been woken up around three am by Minty who was unsure what to do about Hermione being alone with Sirius. Lily had bolted out of the bed so quickly; James had been awoken as well. He followed his wife slowly, still half-asleep towards where, Minty informed Lily of Hermione's whereabouts. What they saw surprised them. Oreo was minding the fire and making sure the blankets, he put on the two sleeping in the sitting room, remained in place. Sirius had wrapped Hermione's legs in his arms, his head buried into her hip, and he was sound sleep. Hermione would still, in her sleep, card her fingers through Sirius's hair, anytime he shifted from dreams. Neither Potter could find the will to disturb the sleeping pair.

Lily returned to bed, James following. Oreo and Minty were under strict instructions that sleep is all that should be happening in the sitting room.

"Fuck off James." Sirius mumbled, ignoring the sudden shifting of his living pillow. Hermione opened her eyes, and stretched, hand leaving the dark soft hair of Sirius Black for the first time since she wrapped the curls in her fingers. She smiled, having slept soundly throughout the night, since the war.

"Good morning, Lovelies." James had a laugh to his voice, drawing Hermione's eyes. She blushed, realizing that for the first time, someone else saw her and Sirius's ritual when he couldn't sleep and she'd find him.

"Mister Potter..." Hermione's face turned red, and she struggled out of the hold Sirius had on her. He laughed harder as she almost fell to the ground, but Sirius's quick thinking had her back against him. "No harm, 'Mione."

"Hermione." She corrected with a scowl. James looked startled but recovered quickly, eyes still bright with laughter.

"Like I said, Hermione, no harm. The boys are just getting up, and having a cuddle with a friend is hardly news worthy." He placed his hands on his hips, the smile on his face growing. "I'm happy everyone got a good night sleep." Sirius rolled his eyes and helped Hermione stand; she legs like jelly.

"Thank you." Hermione whispered when Sirius removed his hands from her waist and stood himself. He shook like his pup counterpart and smiled. He looked so much lighter than he had the day before.

"No worries." Sirius stretched.

"You can ask for help, you know." Hermione's voice lost the warm from their sleep, and was instead dipped in the tone reserved for others being stupid.

"I can do it alone." Sirius growled, his emotion switching immediately. He would not let a little girl tell him what was best. James took a cautious step back, readying to run for Lily if they started to fight.

"But you don't have to." Hermione and Sirius squared up. James took another step toward the door, voice ready to call for help. "Everyone is worried about you. Harry, James, Lily! They would gladly do whatever you need to help!" Sirius's jaw tightened, and he turned to leave. Hermione grabbed his arm and tugged him back without much effort. Sirius in that moment realized that she had a sway over him, no one had before. "Just because you can do it alone, doesn't mean you should! Friends make the journey easier. Don't make things more difficult for yourself." Her voice was soft, tears building in her eyes. She didn't want to watch him suffer like he had before. He wasn't alone now. There wasn't a war. James watched Sirius completely deflate.

"Okay... okay... Don't... don't cry." He reached for her, paused for a moment before wrapping her in his arms. "I'll... I'll let them help." His voice was resigned.

"Promise." Hermione eyes were still shining, but there was a defiance that Lily would be proud of. "Promise me." Sirius sighed, exasperated. He pulled away with a shake of his head. He gazed fondly at Hermione before nodding.

"I promise." He smiled; it reached his eyes. "I'll let those nosy little gits... pet my hair and... hold me while I sleep." There was a laughter to his voice as Hermione blushed at the reminder of exactly, what she had done. He was teasing her. She huffed in false annoyance.

"Good... Good..." She pulled her dressing gown into place and headed out of the room.

"Thank you." James whispered as she passed him. She paused for a moment and caught his eye. She nodded with a smile and went to get ready for the day.

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14 November, 1998

Hogwarts settled back into a pattern after the return of the two members of the Golden Trio that returned in the fall. Hermione could be found in the library, the common room, and class. Houses would find her at their tables during the scheduled meal. Ron was known to be near her in a few of those places. He didn't like the library, and still sat at Gryffindor table during meals. He made Keeper for the Quidditch team, surprising no one. Hermione could sometimes be found sitting in the stands during practice, reading, but giving her support.

The relationship between the two improved greatly after their return from Halloween. Hermione could be seen gazing lovingly at Ron and vice versa. They were more often than not holding hands when near each other. Hermione had been unwilling to cause a problem and resigned herself to not learning about what had occurred on the Express. She had decided that eventually she would ask Neville, just not now. She knew on some level that she would be angry with him, once she learned what had happened. She was going to enjoy the happiness while she could.

Today was a Hogsmeade weekend and Hermione was determined to enjoy her time with Ron one on one. Ginny was attending with Luna, Neville and Draco just shrugged when she asked them what their plans were. Neville blushed, catching Hermione's attention, but she didn't find out more. Draco kept his head down and left the room. Hermione learned pretty quickly Draco would often leave the situation if he was uncomfortable. Neville still disappeared to the greenhouses during all his free hours. Ginny joked that he'd sleep with the plants if he was allowed to. Luna laughed so loud, everyone stared at her with confused expressions.

"I'm sure he would. He wouldn't be alone after all." Hermione had not heard of any issues with the male Gryffindor dorm, but that didn't mean there wasn't one. She wondered if the other boys had somehow isolated Neville. Hermione promised herself, that she would keep a closer eye on her elusive friend. Ginny's eyes narrowed, hearing something Hermione did not, but didn't comment on her girlfriend's statement.

Ginny and Luna stood with Hermione at the carriages waiting for Ron. Lavender had opted to stay behind, still not ready to face the world at large. She had revealed the extend of her scarring to three girls, face pale the whole time, expecting a repeat of rejection.

"If my parents don't want me... who would?" She had confided after they had a bit too much Firewhiskey, and were draped across each other on Hermione and Lavender's beds pushed together. Hermione and Ginny had snuck in Luna for that particular girls' nights. It had been the best decision, for Luna had a way to ease anyone into a peaceful mindset. Lavender didn't stand a chance.

"'Mione!" Ron exited the castle, Seamus and Dean in toe. "Ready?" He waved off the other Gryffindors before placing his arm on her shoulders.

"Is Neville not going?" Hermione gazed at the door, keeping her promise of watching Neville.

"Nah, he said he'd be going later." Hermione nodded at Ron's answer and smiled warmly as Ginny, Luna, Ron, and herself climbed into a carriage together. Ginny and Ron chatted about the upcoming Quidditch games, while Luna read the Quibbler. Hermione basked in the simple life of a student that she missed while helping save the Wizarding world. She climbed out last, and smiled at Ron who had waited for her, while Luna and Ginny went off on their own. "Hey..." Ron's ears were turning a bit red, and he had his hand on the back of his head, looking sheepish. "I was hoping that we could go our own ways for the first bit." He looked down. "You spend so much time looking at Tomes and Scrolls... and I know you hate being in Spintwitches looking at Quidditch supplies..."

"Whatever you'd like Ron, I didn't really have plans..." She tried to keep the disappointment out of her voice. He was trying so hard to be considerate.

"Cool! Let's meet at Honeydukes in an hour? Then we can head over to the Three Broom Sticks for lunch!" He gave her a quick kiss before vanishing into the crowd of students. Hermione tugged on the yellow knitted sweater Lavender had helped her pick out. She had wanted to wear something red, but Lavender was adamant that yellow was HER color. Ginny and Luna both agreed while they waited for the late Gryffindor boys. With a put upon sigh, Hermione headed toward her favorite shop.

The book shop was exactly what she needed. The smell of her one true love, learning, filled the store. There were few students and thus she could relax. Smiling she headed over to the section on magical creatures, wanting to learn more about Dementors. Old Remus and Sirius had imparted some knowledge, and she learned even more while in Grimmauld. She knew there had to be more to learn.

"OH! Neville? What are you doing here?" Neville was standing staring lost at the endless magical creature section. He was unstoppable when it came to magical plants, but somethings still made him look so out of depth he might as well be drowning. He turned sharply to stare at her. He looked like he had been caught taking a biscuit from the tin.

"Hermione! Sorry... I thought... I heard... aren't you supposed to be... with Ron... today..." He stumbled and stuttered, until he sagged his shoulders in defeat. "How are you?" She wanted to laugh, but decided that would not help anyone.

"I'm doing well." She looked back at the shelf he had been drowning in. "Can I help you find something?" His reaction was immediate, face reddening and eyes widening to comedic size.

"NO! I mean... no! I... I... can figure it out." This time she did laugh. "I'm being ridiculous, aren't I?"

"A bit." Hermione joined him and gave him a comforting pat. "Tell me what you are looking for, I'll do my best to help." Neville sighed.

"I don't rightly know... It... it's a present for Yule." He ran his hands over his face in frustration. "I just don't know what to get." Hermione nodded sagely.

"Who's it for?" Neville paled, and refused to look at her, until she spoke again. "Okay, what does this mystery person like?"

"Animals... plants... kind of a free spirit type..."

"Maybe a pet?"

"Nah, she... umm... they..." He groaned. He was trying to hide as much as he could about the mysterious person. "They think animals chose their companions, not the other way around."

"Hmm..." Hermione placed her hand under her chin. "Maybe a book on her favorite creature?"

"I don't know what that is... S... They like them all equally..." He leaned on the nearest shelf "I should just give up..."

"Now wait a minute. Let's think about it." Hermione reach out and took Nevilles arm, pulling him to stand straight again. "Tell me about her?" He frowned. She giggled. "About the person you want to get the gift for."

Neville leaned into her and launched into a long-winded speech about the wonderfulness of the person he wanted to spend Yule with. She was a quiet speaker, and really preferred to listen and learn. Neville could talk to her for hours about plants, school, anything and she'd listen and remember. She taught him about some of the more obscure plants in their greenhouses. Things that even Professor Sprout didn't know. She could name every plant he described to her. Her smile while rare, was a thing of myth and legend. It brightened the room and warmed him better than any sunbeam. She was short and cute, and would look at him like she KNEW him, inside and out. Hermione, by the end, knew that whoever this woman was, Neville was completely smitten. She also knew this person had declined to spend Yule at the Longbottom estate.

"Why not gift a plant?" Neville scoffed at the idea. "No! Think about it, you two can take care of it together. I'm sure she'd love to share something with you." Hermione smirked as Neville played the idea over in his head. "It'd be a present for you too." She looked at him knowingly. "And if she'd half of what you said, she'd love that part of it the most." Neville bit his lip, thoughtfully.

"What kind of plant?" He looked down at her, his eyes bright with the success of the idea.

"I think you'd know the answer to that better than me." Hermione laughed when Neville kissed her cheek in thanks and ran out of the shop. She returned to the books, continuing her shopping.

Hermione spent longer than an hour at Tomes and Scrolls, but luckily managed to beat Ron to Honeydukes. She was in the sweet shop for about ten minutes before Ron appear. He kissed her briefly, before walking around picking out sweets. Hermione got a dozen Sugar Quills and a few bars of chocolate she knew Remus loved. She hoped Lavender would enjoy them as well.

The Three Broom Sticks was full to the brim like always around lunch time. Hermione debated suggesting they return to the castle not having the energy to fight for a seat in the crowded pub. Ginny and Luna were already at a table and graciously waved them over. Hermione approached behind Ron, and paused.

"We don't want to interrupt your date." Hermione was trying to be considerate, but it was lost as Ron sat next to his sister. Luna smiled up at her with her bright endless blue eyes.

"There nothing wrong with friends having lunch together." Luna patted the seat next to her. "Nargle free. I promise." Hermione shook her head and accepted the seat.

"How's your visit going?" Ginny spoke up, glaring at her brother through her hair. "Ron, why don't you go get us butterbeers and some fish and chips?" Ron nodded, leaving the women alone. "Spill, I saw him alone at Spintwitches." Before Hermione could speak, she continued, "Correct me if I'm wrong, but weren't you supposed to be on a date? Lavender lent you that sweater, that looks marvelous on you by the way." Luna nodded in agreement with all the words Ginny began to spew, while Ron was gone. Finally, Luna placed her hand over Ginny's, stopping her tirade.

"Hermione needs space to speak my Lovely." Ginny smiled lovingly at her girlfriend before turning her eyes on Hermione again.

"I went to Tomes and Scrolls. He hates how long I take there, and I hate how long he takes at sporting supplies." Hermione shrugged, glancing at Ron across the room, still waiting for his order of Butterbeer. "Guess who I ran into!" She tried to change the subject, but no one was fooled.

"Fine, we will be revisiting this later." Ginny took a breath, "Who?"

"Neville!" Ginny looked confused. Luna nodded sagely.

"He has had Moon and Sun Knags dancing around his head." Luna let out fond sigh. "Pure love can bring them around." Before anyone could ask any thing further, Ron appeared with the drinks. The rest of the weekend was uneventful, Hermione agreed to spend the winter break at the Burrow, and was so pleased she forgot about the mystery person Neville was apparently in love with.

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1 December, 1998

Dear Harry,

I'm sorry I can't make it to Potter Palace for the winter holiday. Ron already invited me to the Burrow, and I miss spending time with the other Weasleys. Ginny will be there as well as George. If it works for you, I can visit the day after Yule and spent a few days there. I'll save my gifts for you and the rest of the Potters till then. I'd love to see everyone open them with my own eyes! Everything here is going swell. The Headmistress is very pleased to see Houses working together!

Harry set the letter down, and knocked his head against the desk he was at, reading. He had been hoping to spend more time with his friends, since they were at school more often than not. His mum and dad, certainly wanted them here as well. Sirius had started getting tense whenever anyone mentioned the return of Harry's best friends. Harry sighed, his head resting on his arm. Sirius would likely be happy they weren't coming. He had been doing so much better these last few weeks. Harry pulled the letter closer and continued reading.

Oh! Gryffindor won their first Quidditch match against Hufflepuff. Ravenclaw lost to Slytherin, but none of that surprises you, I'm sure. Luna is still a very popular announcer, for which I am glad. She keeps even those of us that don't care for the sport entertained. Ron got his old Keeper position back, but Draco decided to not try out again. At least that's something I can rest in comfort of their rivalry. Can't compete if they both don't play.

I have a favor to ask. Lavender Brown doesn't have anywhere to go for the break. She doesn't want to come with me to the Burrow, and she can't go back home. I can't tell you exactly why, but I don't want her to be alone. Especially on Christmas. Would it be alright for her to spend the holiday at Potter Palace? Let me know, she doesn't want to intrude, so I would like an answer before I ask.

With my love,

Hermione Granger

Hogwarts SOWAW

Harry had no reason to say no to the favor. He was interested in see how she was fairing. He had heard that she was attacked by Greyback during the Battle of Hogwarts, but her parents took her home before he could speak to her. It wasn't a full moon, so she wasn't a werewolf. Harry figured she'd be similar to Bill, craving raw meat and a bit moody certain times of the month. He would ask Remus about it, next time he was here for a visit.

"MUM!" Lily joined him from the book shelves she had been browsing.

"Yes sweetie." She took a seat across from him, leaning back with a hand on her stomach. Being almost six months along, the little baby potter was obvious for anyone who looked. Harry was excited for the little sister that would be the sibling he always wanted but never had. They had not settled on a name, so Little Potter was how they referred to her.

"Can Lavender stay with us for winter break?" Lily looked thoughtful at the question.

"Lavender?"

"Yeah, Hermione made friends with her this year, and she can't go home..." Harry bit his lip. "I'm guessing cause of Greyback attacking her."

"Oh, is she a werewolf?"

"No. It wasn't a full moon."

"If you want her to, she's more than welcome." She struggled to stand. "I'm sure... Remus would be... helpful... if she needs guidance." Harry had rounded the desk while she spoke and offered her his hand. "Don't tell your father I can't stand up..." She sighed in relief, once she was back on her feet. "His hovering is going to drive me to murder." She smiled. "Though you'd do just fine raising her, if need be." Harry paled as his mother walked away laughing.

"THAT'S NOT FUNNY!" Harry screamed after his mum. He returned to the desk and began his reply to Hermione. Lavender would be a welcome addition to the visitors this holiday. Of which, currently she was it.

Andy, Remus, and Teddy were going to stop by in the afternoon, after their own holiday traditions. Sirius wanted to meet Narcissa's son, still debating disowning Mrs. Malfoy. Draco would be the deciding factor. If he wasn't as pompous as his father, he would remain a Black. Harry was quickly learning that the Black family estate was larger and more expansive than the Potter Estate. He had hands in every fortune in many Pureblood Vaults, due to marriage, blood, Oath, and much, much more. Harry asked him once if he could enter Bellatrix's vault without her permission, even though it was a Lestrange Vault. Sirius had laughed and said, once she was convicted to Azkaban, the Lestrange Vault was Forfeited to the Blacks, provided it was claimed.

Marriage contracts had terms and by getting arrested her husband and herself, could not meet them. In this case, to produce at least one male child.

Andy had claimed the Lestrange estate and several others from lines that were either dead or locked away, through the Black family estate. Sirius had washed his hands of managing his estate, leaving it all to Andy's capable hands. Last, he had heard, she hired a law firm and several assistants to get everything UpToDate. She also had their Vault manager to seek advice from. The Goblins were pleased to have so much Gold actively making more Gold, again. Goblins hated when Purebloods started hoarding their wealth instead of using to grow the size of their vaults.

Remus helped where he could, but would rather take care of Teddy. Andy would never begrudge him spending time with his son.

Harry had frowned and needed to go flying. Everything could have been so much easier if he had known half of what his parents taught him daily.

He later found out that he could not claim anything that was already not under the Black family control when Sirius died. He was his heir, but he was not a male black, by magic, blood, and name. Harry and Sirius agreed, Pureblood rules were stupid.

Still Draco and Narcissa had invited Sirius and the rest of the Potters to Malfoy manor for Yule. Harry did not want to go, and Sirius was inclined to side with him. In short, both Malfoys would be attending an event at the Ministry that everyone was planning to attend. James and Lily thought it was a great place to reintroduce themselves into the world, and meet those they'd rather not see alone in a dark alley.

Harry was hopeful for Draco. While Hermione had been vague in her dealings with him, she started referring to him as Draco exclusively. That could only be a good sign. He asked Hermione if she was planning on attending. Minister Kingsley had requested the trio to make an appearance.

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19 December, 1998

Hermione was sitting on the Express to London with Neville, Luna, Ginny, Ron and Lavender, headed home for the holidays. Lavender was huddle against the window trying to disappear into the wood trim. Ginny was leaning back with Luna tucked under her arm, reading the Quibbler. The paper had taken off at the end of the war, since they had exclusive interviews with the savior of the wizarding war and his friends. It was just as common as the Prophet currently. Hermione figured once Luna graduated and took over, the Quibbler would outpace the Prophet. Blood supremacy was still rampant in the older families, but with the help of Kingsley and the Wizengamot, things were changing. It helped that most if not all of the main supports of blood supremacy were either dead or in prison.

The station came into view much faster than anyone on board the train would have guessed. The Prefects helped everyone leave the train. Hermione's group had of age wizards so they did not have to bother with their trunks. Ginny spotted her family immediately and pulled Luna towards them. Mr. Weasley had offered to pick her up at the station, since they had to retrieve Ron and Ginny as well. Hermione kept her hand wrapped tightly around Lavender's, despite Ron's obvious annoyance. He shrugged and followed his sister. Hermione shook her head, and headed for the gate to Muggle London. Harry had wanted to avoid the crowds and possibly getting surrounded. So, he asked them to meet on the other side of the portal.

"Hermione!" Standing off to the side, calling her, was a man she had never seen before, but she could tell it was Harry by his clothing and posture. Not even war could change that slouch. She tugged Lavender after her and released her to pull Harry into a tight hug.

"I missed you." She spoke into his neck, not quite ready to pull away.

"I missed you too." They remained in each other's arms for a few moments longer, before Lavender cleared her throat looking uncomfortable at the stares she was receiving. Despite her best effort, she would never be able to fully hide her scars. "Hello Lavender. It's nice to see you again." She huffed at being addressed, and shifted ever more uncomfortable.

"Thanks, for you know... letting me stay."

"No thanks require. Hermione thinks of you as family. So you are." His smile was real and full of the truth of the statement. Hermione nodded, hugged them both goodbye, and returned to the platform before Harry could try to convince her to go as well. She didn't think she could say no to him directly. Mr. Weasley was still there, while the rest of the red heads and Luna had departed.

"Heyo! Hermione. I know you can get there by yourself, but I thought you'd like someone to wait." He smiled, it was a tired smile, but happy. "Luna agreed." He chuckled. Hermione nodded and returned his smile. If they hadn't waited, she would have felt lost. She walked over to the Floo to wait in line with Mr. Weasley, chatting about school and plans for the holiday.

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A/n I cannot believe I got this out so soon! The scene with Sirius and Hermione was eating at my brain to be written! As well as the little egg of Neville. It's crazy that it feeling like so much has happened, but there so much that hasn't yet! Ooo. Enjoy the ride! I know I am.