Hermione was pulled into a hug by Mrs. Weasley the moment they set foot in the door of the Burrow. Harry was next to be assaulted by one of her crushing hugs.
"Ease up Mum. Let them breath," Ron teased as he stood back with a welcome smile for his friends. He turned to Hermione and said, "It's good to see you again Hermione." He opened his arm to hug her but then thought better of it and stuck out his hand awkwardly. Hermione laughed at him and pulled him to a hug. Ron was taken a bit by surprise and eyed Harry wearily. Harry simply grinned and rolled his eyes at him as if to say, 'She's a hugger, what do you expect?' The atmosphere was one of easy going fun. They chatted and George updated them on his plans for the joke shop. There was a new sense of somberness to George after losing Fred. The loss was still quite fresh, even after 7 months. But George was doing better and seemed to enjoy the company and distraction that tonight's dinner afforded him. There was a loud game of exploding snaps followed by a filling meal. True to form Mrs. Weasley had the table filled to the brim with all the best foods. Harry was seated next to Hermione and he grabbed her hand under the table and quietly said, "You're not eating much. Are you alright?" Hermione gave him a smile. "I'm fine, just not that hungry. It is all delicious though." Harry was satisfied and continued to enjoy his pudding. After dinner the boys gathered in the family room while Hermione helped Mrs. Weasley clean up the kitchen a bit.
"Hey, we should go out and play a round of Quidditch," Ron suggested enthusiastically. "I miss playing."
"Me too," Harry admitted.
"Well, what are we waiting for then?" George said rising and heading toward the broom cupboard. "Harry, you'll have to settle for Fred's broom. It's not up to par with yours but I suspect you'll find it adequate."
Harry was honored by Georges offer and nodded with a smile of acceptance before taking it from him. "Go ahead, I'll be out in just a moment. I'm just going to let Hermione know where we're going." The boys nodded to him and went out the back door. Harry made his way to the kitchen where he saw Hermione using her wand to make the silverware fly into a drawer. "Hermione, the boys are going out to have a game of Quidditch. You want to join us?"
"Harry, you know I don't like flying. I'll come out in a moment and cheer you guys on though." She gave him a sparkling smile before he nodded and disappeared out the door.
"You and Harry seem close these days," Mrs. Weasley comment lightly.
Hermione felt her face grow a bit red without her consent. "Um, yeah, he's a good friend. I've missed hanging out with him. It's nice to see him a bit more." She avoided looking at the older woman.
"Good friend huh? Is that all?" Mrs. Weasley said slyly. Hermione looked over at her in surprise. "Dear, I've been around a while, and I don't miss much. The way that boy looks at you, it's like you were made of gold. " Hermione blushed all the more. "That blush on your face tells me your feelings for him might be a bit more than just friendly too." She gave Hermione a knowing and friendly smile before she reached over and gave her a one armed hug. "I'll admit I was disappointed when you and Ron called it off, but I can see now that Harry is the one who really makes you light up dear. I wish you all the best with him. You two will always be considered family here."
Hermione smiled warmly and blinked back the tears that had sprung to her eyes. "Thank you so much Mrs. Weasley. You have been so good to Harry and I. I'm not sure what we'd do without you."
"Well, you better get outside and make sure those boys don't do anything too stupid up on those brooms of theirs." Mrs. Weasley shooed her out of the kitchen. "I'll call you all when dessert is ready."
"Thanks!" Hermione said as she made her way to the back door. She settled herself on the grass and shading her eyes, looked up to see the boys flying around. George had the Quaffle and was throwing it to Harry while Ron played Keeper. She saw Harry wave to her and she smiled back at him waving as she squinted into the setting sun. It had been a fun evening thus far but Hermione's insides were tied in knots knowing that soon she would have to tell the Weasley's about the unfortunate circumstances that she and Harry now found themselves in. She still wasn't sure what to make of it all. She had assumed that a bonding required a ceremony of sorts and was a bit more complicated than a few spoken words. When she had asked the Headmistress about it the Professor had merely shook her head and explained that many years ago, when bonding was deemed unsafe and barbaric that the Ministry had actually made an effort to spread rumors and even print literature that would lead people to believe it was a complicated, ritual ceremony. This was to dissuade the use of it and make the public see it as more of a cult tactic than actual spell work. Now, more than two hundred years later, bonding was very nearly unheard of and almost always illegal. It should be one of the unforgiveable curses, considering there was no easy way to reverse its consequences. Hermione let her mind settle on that. What was her future going to be? It was becoming clearer to her that she loved Harry. Loved him enough to consider that a life with him would be quite pleasant. But even if they eventually got married, would she still have these attacks? Would he be forced to watch her suffer for years to come? She still held out hope that the Ministry would catch Atticus and somehow fix this, but if that didn't happen….She knew her magic was starting to be affected. Every time she had an attack she felt her core magic subconsciously pulse as if trying to defend itself against the bond. She felt her magic settle on her body in an attempt to stifle the pain, but it never worked. The relief that she got from Harry's touch was always a welcome relief, but there was also a sense of loss as the magic that had surfaced inside of her suddenly vanished as if it had been taken from her instead of drawn back into her core. It always took a day or two before she felt like her magic had recovered from the ordeal. Hermione had not told Harry of this. She didn't want to worry him any further. She feared that if the attacks began happening more frequently that her magic wouldn't have time to recover. The outcome of that was not something Hermione could bring herself to think about. A depleted magical core had serious consequences. Hermione shook her dark thoughts off as she clapped and cheered when Harry made a spectacular catch. Harry waved to her and set off again for the goal posts.
Harry loved flying. It always cleared his head. He was grateful for this pleasant distraction. It felt like old times when they had nothing to worry about except the coming school year. Harry was pleased to hear Hermione's cheers as he dove to catch the Quaffle that Ron had attempted to hit off course. He waved to her and continued toward the goal posts. All at once he heard Ron yell for him. Harry turned toward his friend and saw Ron flying fast toward the ground. At first Harry was confused about what he was doing, then his eyes traveled downward and he saw Hermione. His heart froze and he felt the warmth of the pendant. Quickly changing course he plummeted toward the grass. Even from high in the air Harry could see her body twitching unnaturally. Ron got to her first and dropped to his knees beside her. Harry was there seconds after and quickly took Hermione's hand before gathering her now limp body into his arms. "Bloody hell mate. I know you said it was bad but…" Ron's voice dropped off in disbelief.
George quickly made his way toward them. "What's wrong? What happened to her?"
Harry didn't answer. He was watching Hermione take an unsteady breath as she opened her eyes. He felt her try to sit up and said, "Hey, take it slow. It's alright." He helped her slowly sit up. She was deathly pale and her breathing was unsettled.
"Is she alright?" George asked with concern.
"I'll be fine," Hermione reassured him softly.
"What happened?" George asked.
Harry sighed, "I'll tell you but we should get her inside."
Harry and Ron helped Hermione to stand and Harry wrapped his arm around her as they made their way to the house. They were almost there when a tremor ran through Hermione's body and her legs gave out under her. Harry quickly picked her up and whispered, "It's alright. I've got you. Just try to relax." She turned her head into his chest and wrapped her arms around his neck.
When Harry came into the living room carrying Hermione Mrs. and Mr. Weasley both jumped up in surprise. Soon the room was buzzing with questions and bodies trying to get a look at Hermione to see what was wrong. Harry gently placed her on the couch and sat down next to her.
Ron said, "Everyone be quiet. Let Harry explain." To his astonishment the room was suddenly still.
Harry gave Ron an appreciative nod, stood and turned toward the group. He quickly recounted the past few weeks and Hermione's condition. The news was met with tears from Mrs. Weasley, a somber expression from Mr. Weasley and a shocked one from George. " Hermione had an attack out back while we were playing. Ron has known for a little while and we were going to tell you all of this tonight anyway, it just happened a bit more dramatically than we had hoped." Harry concluded.
"You poor dears," Mrs. Weasley said as she dabbed at her eyes. She turned to Hermione. "What can I get you? Is there anything you need?"
Hermione had pushed herself up to sitting while Harry had relayed the information. She gave Mrs. Weasley a weak smile and replied, "I'll be alright. I'm just a bit tired." She shook uncontrollably once more and Harry sat down to take her trembling hand.
"I need to get her back to the Castle. She needs a Curiatious potion to stop the aftershocks." Harry declared as he helped Hermione stand. "May we use your Floo. I don't think she should try to apparate."
"Of course," Mrs. Weasley said as she rose to get the pot of powder. "Please keep us informed if there is anything we can do to help."
"Thank you," Harry said as he hugged her. "We're sorry to burden you with this."
"No, no, it's not burden at all. We are here for you. Thank you for telling us dear." Mrs. Weasley wiped another tear from her cheek.
"I'll try to see if I can pick up any leads or information on my end of the Ministry," Mr. Weasley offered.
"I appreciate that." Harry said as he shook his hand.
Harry turned to Hermione who had just hugged Ron, "You alright for this?"
"Yeah, I think so." Hermione said as she stepped into the fireplace. Harry watched her say 'Headmistress' Office' before she disappeared. Harry quickly got in himself and turning to Ron said, "See you at the office tomorrow." Ron gave him a grave nod before he declared his destination and was gone.
Harry nearly tripped over Hermione's form as he exited the fireplace. He dropped to his knees to check her crumpled form. She was unconscious. Her face was pale and her breathing shallow. Before he could try to lift her he heard a door to his left squeak open. Professor McGonagall appeared and quickly knelt down beside him. "I heard my alarms go off to inform me someone had come through. How is she?"
"Unconscious. I think traveling by Floo spent what little energy she had." Harry said. Her body tensed and shook for a quick moment. "Do you have…"
"Yes, I'll go fetch it." McGonagall said. She soon returned with a small vile and with Harry's help, tipped it into Hermione's mouth. "It's getting late. There isn't much Poppy can do for her right now. Why don't you stay with her here. You can use the spare room off my chambers."
Harry was touched by her thoughtfulness. "Thank you Headmistress."
"Least I can do." McGongall rose and helped Harry lift Hermione from the floor. "I take it sharing a bedroom with her won't be a problem?" Harry shook his head no even as he blushed slightly. McGonagall smiled almost knowingly at him and then said, "I expect you to act like a perfect gentleman Mr. Potter."
"Of course," Harry assured her as he followed her through the side door and into her private chambers. He was led to a small door just down the hall from the living area. He place Hermione gently on the large bed and brushed a curl from her forehead.
"Good night Mr. Potter. I will be just down the hall should you require anything." McGonagall said.
Harry nodded and thanked her once more. He kicked his shoes off and laid down next to Hermione. Her breathing was steady and deep. The worst of it had passed. She would be alright. He took her hand and gently let his thumb rub the top of her fingers. It had been a wonderful evening right up until he had seen her writhing in pain. How many more times would he have to witness it? A great exhaustion settled on him and he was soon deep in sleep.
It had been a full day since her attack and Hermione was confident that today she would remain free from the pain. After all, the attacks never happened that close together. She knew there was a possibility that would change but chose not to dwell on it. She was full of energy and nerves. Today the new school year began. She would be introduced to the first and second years tomorrow in Transfiguration class as the intern who would be doing a good bit of teaching. She straightened her robes and made sure her hair was tidily tucked back from her face, helping her look older and more mature. It was early afternoon and the students would not arrive until a bit later but she was anxious. She would probably see a few students in the upper years that she knew from before the war. Suddenly the door to her bedroom opened to reveal Harry who looked rather dashing in a set of dark green robes. He leaned casually against the door frame with one hand behind his back. "Already prepping for your first meal at the staff table?" She loved the way his eyes teased her a bit even as they roamed her body.
"I'm so nervous! I want to be taken seriously by the students and they say first impressions are important. I just want to look…"
"Undeniably attractive?" Harry teased as he made his way to her.
Rolling her eyes she responded with a smile, "I don't think having my hair in a bun and wearing these robes would qualify for that description."
"Oh, I don't know." Harry said as he drew up behind her while she put on some earrings in the mirror. "Maybe I have the hots for teacher."
Hermione laughed at that before Harry gently spun her around to face him and planted a passionate kiss on her lips. She sighed heavily when he pulled away. Harry revealed what he had been hiding behind his back and she gasped as a small grouping of pink lilies was offered to her. "Oh, Harry! They are beautiful! Thank you so much! I love lilies!" She breathed in deeply, "They smell so wonderful." She quickly took out her wand and transfigured a glass into a crystal vase and set the flowers in it.
"You're brilliant," Harry commented.
"Thank you," Hermione conceded.
Harry watched her arrange the flowers and noticed she still seemed a bit pale and her eyes were excited but tired. "You still seem a bit tired."
"I am. It does sometimes take me a day or two to feel back to myself. Don't let it worry you. I'm so glad you came, Harry. I've missed you." She pecked him on the cheek. Before she could continue he had her in his arms again and was slowly kissing her. She was aware of him moving her across the room as his hands held her waist. Before she knew what was happening her back was against the wall and her senses were full of only him. She could feel the heat from his body and his hand came to the base of her neck. Their kiss deepened until Hermione let out a small moan of pleasure. Harry stopped kissing her but didn't pull away. His hands where on either side of her head, effectively pinning her against the wall. "I take it you missed me too then?" Her voice was a bit breathless.
Harry laughed a bit at that and looked into her rich brown eyes. "I did indeed." Hermione gave him a big smile and then put her hand on his chest and gently pushed.
"I'm glad, and it's not that I wouldn't love to continue this display of affection, but I would also like to hear how things are going at the Ministry. How was training? Any news?"
Harry respected her wish and stepped back a step allowing Hermione to sit on the bed. She patted it and he sat beside her before replying, "Training went well. Mr. Boggs says that if I can keep up this pace he will try to move me into the field in four months' time. "
"Harry that's wonderful! Do you think you'll be ready?" Hermione asked.
"I think so. I mean I know I'm ready to take action. I'm still not convinced that Mr. Boggs will let me be involved in the search for Atticus though. He thinks I'm too emotionally involved." Harry said disgruntled.
"Well, you are. I have to agree with him. I don't want you getting in too deep because you let your emotions over rule the sense in your head." Hermione admitted.
"Hermione!" Harry exclaimed.
"Harry, I don't mean that in a bad way. I know you'd do anything for me. You care about people and I love that about you. But you tend to jump into dangerous situations without fully thinking when your heart is involved." Hermione admitted.
Harry was a bit put out by that but looking back over the years could see she had a valid point. He sighed heavily, "I know. You're right of course. I just want to help."
"I know. Give it time. You are helping you know. You're helping me. Harry I could never do this without you." Hermione studied his face and quickly said pointing her finger at him, "And don't you dare say I'm in this situation because of you. I am the one that opened my big mouth and just had to defend my honor. This is not your fault. So don't even think about blaming yourself." She put her hand on his chin and said softly, "When I need you you're always there. You're helping Harry. More than you know. I'm scared. But when I'm with you it's like I can breathe past the fear. I know you want to do more. But right now I'm just glad to have you here with me." She saw him nod and give her a small smile before he raised her hand to his lips.
"Thank you Hermione. You are quite convincing when you put on that stern teacher voice of yours." Harry smirked wickedly.
Hermione's pulse quickened at the look Harry was giving her and she blushed even as she leaned toward him and whispered, "Perhaps I can use a different method of convincing you that I need you." She grabbed the collar of his robes and gently pulled him toward her. She could feel him smiling as she kissed him. He quickly responded to her advances and they spent a happy few minutes mingled in one another's arms.
"You may need to redo that bun of yours." Harry commented. He was rewarded by a musical laugh.
"Indeed I shall," Hermione said through a blissful grin.
The back to school feast went off well and Hermione found herself quiet exhausted at the end of it. The next day dawned bright and she had already met two of the four classes that she was going to assist teaching this year. She was surprised to find that despite her nerves she felt quite at home in front of a classroom. The students seemed reasonably respectful of her position and she was eager to gain their trust as the weeks continued. Hermione picked at the food on her plate. Nothing really looked appetizing. She knew she should probably eat but the last couple of days food had lost its appeal. She settled on drinking some of her pumpkin juice.
A half hour later Hermione was in front of the third class that she would be helping with. The teacher, Ms. Fields, had just introduced her and given Hermione leave to do what she wanted for the last 20 minutes of class. Ms. Fields had left to run to the staff room for some materials she needed for the fourth year class she had next. Hermione decided to show the class a couple of the basic spells that where in the syllabus for the next month. The students oohed and ahhed as expected. She was in the middle of telling them about the complexities of tone of voice and wand movements needed for certain transformations when she suddenly felt dizzy. Hermione put her hand on the desk behind her in an attempt to steady herself but her body was all too quickly engulfed in fiery, stabbing pain. She felt the impact of the floor as she crumbled and was vaguely aware of shouting, panicked voices around her before her world was nothing but darkness and pain.
Harry was defending himself against Ron's aggressive spell tactics when his chest burned. The pendant sat heavy on his skin and he quickly called out, "Ron, stop! I have to go! It's Hermione!"
Ron stopped mid spell and nodded with concern. "Go! Quick!" Harry bolted from the training room and to the nearest Floo. His heart was racing. The pendant was sickly hot against his skin. It was too soon. She had just had an attack two days ago! But there was no predicting it. They had gotten used to having 4-5 days of rest. He stepped out of McGonagall's fireplace. He wasn't surprised to find the room empty. Rushing through the hallways he made his way to the transfiguration room. A large group of students was gathered outside the door. "Move! Let me though!" A few students tried to tell him he wasn't allowed in, while others recognized him and quickly made way for him, spreading his name throughout the group. After what felt like forever, Harry was able to open the door. Sprinting to the front of the classroom he saw the Headmistress and Ms. Fields kneeling on the floor. They soon parted as they heard his approach. He practically fell to the group in his haste to get to Hermione. Her eyes were rolled back and her body arched and quaked unnaturally. Harry touched her cheek and she fell silent on the stone floor. He gently moved to support her head and chest against him as he whispered, "I'm so sorry. I'm here. I'm here. It's alright now." His heart was doing a marathon in his chest. He was shaking from fear and adrenaline.
Hermione's eyelids soon fluttered open. She looked a bit confused at first and then caught Harry's eyes and whispered sadly, "It was my first day." A single tear rolled down her cheek.
Harry's heart broke for her. "I know love. I know. I'm so sorry." He kissed the top of her forehead and held her tightly. Hermione barely registered his endearment as a tremor shook her tired limbs. Harry turned his gaze to the Headmistress and asked, "How many?"
McGonagall understood his question even if it was not fully spoken. "When I arrived she was in between attacks. The next started seconds later but was short lived. You arrived during the last."
Harry let out a low primal growl of frustration. He wanted to scream or punch something. Hermione had endured three pain filled episodes before he could reach her. That was not acceptable. He was not successful at hiding his anger from his face. Hermione said softly, "Harry, I'm fine. You're here now." Harry nodded to her but her words didn't completely quench his guilt. He felt her body tense once again.
"I'll fetch the potion," the Headmistress said, "I'll be back shortly. I don't think it wise to move her just yet. Let's wait ten more minutes. The students will have switched classes by then and the halls will be relatively empty." Harry nodded his understanding.
"I'll just go shoo my students to their next class and hold off the new ones for a time." Ms. Fields offered.
"Thank you," Harry said.
"Of course," Ms. Fields said solemnly.
Harry watched the two witches leave and held Hermione as her muscles shook once again. "Does it hurt?"
Hermione gave him a weak smile and responded lightly, "No, not really." Harry didn't find that too comforting. That meant she was still in pain, even if it was minimal.
"McGonagall will be here soon with the potion," Harry supplied as he stroked her hair. Hermione hummed a reply as her eye lids drooped. "Hey, stay awake alright?"
"I'm trying," Hermione whispered. "Maybe you should kiss me. That would keep me awake."
Harry gave a soft laugh at her suggestion. Her body shook again and he was amazed she could still joke at a time like this. "How can you think about kissing right now?"
Hermione gave him a weary smile and said, "You're the one who told me to stay awake. Don't you want to kiss me ?"
"I always want to kiss you," Harry declared with a slight smile.
"Then I suggest you do it before I fall asleep," Hermione said. Her voice was quiet and soft.
Harry smiled broadly at her. He couldn't say no to her simple request for comfort. Her body lay weak and shaky in his arms and her eyes were heavy, but she was still so full of spirit. He adjusted her slightly in his arms and gently bent to kiss her. He was slow and gentle. He felt her sigh at the contact. Just as Harry pulled away the door to the room opened to reveal McGonagall hurrying toward them with a small vile in her hand. After Hermione drank it down the Headmistress said, "The halls are clear. I suggest you take her to her rooms." Turning to Hermione she said softly, "We'll need to talk about this later tonight or tomorrow when you're feeling up to it. I want you there Harry. I think it's time we consider some new arrangements." Harry nodded his agreement. He saw Hermione nod but she bit her lip and avoided their eyes. Harry knew she was concerned about what suggestions the Headmistress would have and how it would affect her teaching opportunities. This was not going to be easy for any of them.
Harry helped Hermione sit up but he knew she didn't have enough strength to walk to her rooms but he also knew she was stubborn and he didn't want to wound her pride. Hesitantly he asked, "May I carry you?" She blushed slightly.
"That may be best." Harry gently picked her up and settled her in his arms. The fact that Hermione hadn't but up a fight of any kind was a bit worrying.
"Well, I'll be in touch," the Headmistress said.
"Thank you," Harry replied as he made his way to the door. He slowly checked the corridor to make sure it was empty before exiting the room. He knew Hermione wouldn't want students to see her being carried around, much less, carried around by Harry Potter. The rumors would fly. He felt Hermione turn her head into his chest more fully as her arms gently squeezed his neck. Her breathing hitched slightly. She was crying. They soon arrived at her living quarters and Harry took her right up the stairs to her bedroom. He set her gently on the bed. He watched as she turned her back to him and curled her knees up, weeping softly. Harry didn't know what to say. He knew she was mourning the fact that her first day had ended in disaster. She was mourning her weakness. She was probably also upset that there was a real possibility that she may not be able to teach again for a while. Harry sat down on the bed next to her and gently decided to start loosening the bun in her hair. He wasn't sure what he was doing but he could see the pins holding her curls at bay and slowly began pulling them out one by one. The more he pulled out the more curls spilled over the bed. Soon he had all the pins out and ran his fingers gently through her soft tresses. He said softly, "It's going to be alright. I know it doesn't feel that way, but I promise I will do everything I can to make this alright Hermione." He laid down next to her and curved his body around hers. His arm snacked along her waist and pulled her in. His face was tickled by her honeysuckle hair.
Harry felt her breathing even out and a soft voice reached his ears. "Stay?" His arm tightened around her stomach slightly and whispered in her ear, "Always." Soon she was asleep. Harry's mind buzzed with what to do. How could he help? Thoughts swam in his head until he was too tired to keep them straight and he joined Hermione in dreams.
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