Thank you to FluffyPandaShip for a wonderfully kind review! It was so encouraging. I can promise I have no plans to abandon this story. I will be camping this next week however, so I will not be able to update for a couple of weeks. Please enjoy this chapter and know that I have plans for following ones. As always reviews are appreciated.

Harry sighed heavily as he stepped from the Floo into the study. He had just come from a meeting with Mr. Boggs. Harry had gone to discuss an idea for his studies he had been mulling over. The meeting had gone well and he was hopeful that his idea would give him some advantage in gaining information when they apprehended Atticus. Harry was met by Colby as he headed to the hallway. "Everything alright?" Harry asked.

"Yes, sir. There has been no change. Miss is still sleeping peacefully," Colby replied. "Should I send Biddy to wake her so she has time to get ready for this evening?"

"No, I think I will take that task myself. Let's give her a bit more time to rest."

"Very good, Sir."

Harry nodded and headed up the stairs. It was only early afternoon and it had already been quite a day. Yesterday had been quiet and peaceful. Harry had spent a good portion of the day cuddled up with Hermione in the library or sitting in the garden while she slept. He was grateful that the day had been void of any further attacks. Hermione had seemed more energized by the end of the day. He had hoped today would be the same. His hopes were short lived. Shortly after breakfast Hermione collapsed in the study. Harry had been by her side almost immediately, which he was grateful for. Her pain was soon suppressed but she was clearly very drained. This evening was Teddy's 1st birthday party. Andromada was preparing a light dinner and some cake and ice cream. It was going to be a small gathering of friends. Hermione was excited to go and no matter how much Harry had tried to talk her out of going she was set on attending. The one comfort was that because she had already had an attack that morning the chances of her having one at the party were extremely small. In fact, Harry thought that that knowledge was part of the reason Hermione was so intent on attendance. She was not too concerned about scaring everyone with an attack. For Harry's part, he was just worried about exhausting her more than she already was. She had not eaten much of late and while she slept quite a bit she never seemed fully rested. He made his way to his room and quickly changed into some more casual clothes. He would need to leave soon to help Andromada set up for the party. Harry made his way to Hermione's chambers and opening the door slowly, peeking in to find her sleeping comfortably. He hated to wake her but he knew she'd be upset if he let her sleep through the party. He sat on the edge of her bed and gently stroked her cheek before bending to kiss it lightly.

"Hermione?" He shook her should her a little. "Hermione, it's time to wake up, love." He watched her stir and her eyes fluttered open. She rubbed her tired eyes and stretched. Goodness, she was beautiful. Her mouth twitched up into a smile when she focused on him.

"Is it time to get ready?" Her voice was soft and full of sleep still.

Harry bent and kissed her slowly. "It is. I am sorry I woke you."

Hermione sat up with a yawn. "I am glad you did. I am excited to go. I haven't seen Teddy for some months now. I am sure he has grown so much. I can't wait to see him." She pushed back the covers and swung her legs over the side of the bed and rose with a stretch.

"You're sure you feel up to this?" Harry asked.

"I am fine. I feel quite rested." Hermione assured him. "Now, how much time do I have to get ready?"

Harry smiled at her, "I need to go early to help set up. The party starts in a couple of hours."

"Perfect. That will give me time to shower, get ready, and wrap his gift." Hermione declared.

Harry was happy to see her so animated. He wrapped her in his arms and planted a kiss on her forehead. "Promise me you won't overdo it tonight."

"I promise to play with Teddy and sit as much as possible. Satisfied?" Hermione asked eyeing him.

"I suppose that will do," Harry conceded as he kissed her. He pulled his lips away but kept his arms around her as he said with a grin, "Maybe we could just have our own party. Right here, just like this."

Hermione giggled at him, blushed and then captured his lips with fervor. Harry was lost, his brain was no longer functioning. His senses were only full of Hermione. His hands traveled into her hair and down her back as he tried to pull her closer. He felt her hands creep under the back of his shirt and he let out a groan as her fingers touched his skin. Then it was over. Hermione pulled away and with a twinkle in her eye she grinned wickedly at him. "I am not sure you could handle that type of a party." She promptly turned on her heel and headed toward the bathroom. Harry stared after her and then charged. She squealed as he picked her up by the waist and spun her around. "Put me down!" She cried. They were both laughing now.

Setting her on her feet he teased, "That was not very nice of you." She simply shrugged and he wrapped her in his arms once more and whispered, "Have I told you how much I love you?" Harry smiled with pleasure when her only response was to smile and blush prettily. "Well, I do." He gave her a quick, gentle kiss.

"You should get going," Hermione said.

"I confess my love for you and you are trying to get rid of me?" Harry teased.

Hermione blushed and looked a bit ashamed but smiled at him, "I will never get rid of you. You are far too valuable." She looked deeply into his eyes.

For a moment there was silence before Harry grinned at her, and breaking the spell said, "So, it's my money you want then?" Hermione laughed at him and said with a huff, "Oh! Off with you. I'll see you soon." She shooed him out the door. Just before he got too far she called, "And Harry?" He turned to look back at her. "I love you too." Harry grinned at her before she shut her door.

Harry was in the midst of trying to hang streamers before Teddy got a hold of them and ripped them. Andromeda was placing floating balloons around the room with her wand. Over the last hour Harry had updated her on his situation with Hermione. Andromeda had beamed happily at him when he told her about their living together and how much Harry was enjoying the company. Her face had morphed into one of dismay and deep concern when Harry had confided the seriousness of Hermione's declining health. "My dear boy, I am so sorry. What can I do for you?"

Harry shrugged and gave her a quick hug. "There isn't much we can do. The Auror's think they have narrowed down what town Atticus is in. That's hopeful." Harry sighed heavily. "Honestly, it's so frustrating! I mean I'm trying to help, but I feel so helpless! I wish it was me, not her."

Andromeda nodded sadly and wrapped him in a motherly hug. "I am glad you have one another. There is some joy in all of this. If you ever need me for anything please let me know."

Harry nodded and gave her a small smile. "I'm sorry. This is supposed to be a party. Everyone will be here soon." He quickly picked up Teddy who had been tugging on his pants and spun him about the room. Harry grinned at the little boys squeal of delight. "What do you think Teddy? Is this place fit for your 1st birthday?" The little boy babbled happily while trying to reach for a balloon. At the moment Teddy had Harry's green eyes and black hair. They could have easily been brothers.

Soon the small house was bursting with friends and noisy chatter. The Weasley clan, all except Ginny, were in attendance, as well as Headmistress McGonagall, Neville and Luna. When Harry had asked Ron about Ginny he had simply said she was at another Quidditch camp. Harry watched Hermione closely all night. He was pleased to see she had managed to eat a fair amount of cheese and fruit with a slice of bread. She was in deep conversation with the Headmistress at the moment. He was sure it concerned the current students and what was happening in the classroom. Instead of seeming sad to be missing it, Hermione seemed glad to be discussing academia again. Harry was brought out of his musings when Neville approached him. "So, how are things going with you two?" Harry glanced at Neville and saw his eyes on Hermione.

Harry gave him a small smile. "Well, if you can get past the fact that we are cursed we are doing quite well."

Neville gave him a light chuckle. "So, living with her is bearable I take it?"

"More than bearable. I may never let her leave," Harry confessed.

"You would be a fool if you didn't keep her," Neville agreed. Harry hummed his agreement. "I'm glad she has you." Neville watched Hermione a bit longer before turning his full attention to Harry. "But how are things with her?"

Harry turned toward him and sighed, "Distressing. The attacks are happening more often. She doesn't have time to recover. It's been…difficult for her."

"She does seem a bit…tired," Neville concluded.

Harry nodded solemnly. "She had an attack just this morning. I tried to convince her not to come tonight but she wasn't having any of it."

"Well, she does seem to be enjoying herself," Neville said. "Luna has been looking into things, trying to find anything she can that might be helpful."

"We appreciate that. So, you and Luna are doing well?" Harry asked with a grin.

Neville turned a little pink and smiled broadly. "I think I'm going to propose."

Harry was a bit taken back but was happy for him. "That is fantastic Neville. Good for you!"

Neville shook his head and then said, "Perhaps you should consider doing the same."

Harry scoffed a bit and turned surprised eyes on his friend. "A bit soon for that, don't you think?"

"Perhaps it would be a bit quick, but you love her right?"

"That I do," Harry said.

"Then don't wait. Harry, I've been thinking, if the attacks are happening more often than maybe the bond is not satisfied."

"What do you mean?" Harry asked with some confusion.

"Well, bonds have conditions right?" Harry nodded and Neville continued, "I know you don't know what the conditions are but what if this bond requires you to marry? If the attacks are coming more frequently it might be because the bonds conditions are not being satisfied."

"But we think Atticus is in control of the attacks," Harry said.

"And he may well be. I just think it's worth considering. I don't think the attacks would stop completely if you married, but it might reduce their frequency. Atticus may only be able to cause the attacks if the bond allows him to. If the bond is satisfied to a degree than he might have less control over when he can cause her pain." Harry nodded slowly as he considered his friends words. "Course, I may be completely wrong about it all. It may not help at all. But I still stand by what I said, you should marry her."

Harry smiled at that last part. "I don't disagree with you on that score. I just wish it didn't feel like we had to rush everything. I mean we've only been living together for a little over a week. I'll consider what you said though." Neville gave him a pat on the shoulder and moved toward Luna. Harry wanted to marry Hermione. He had been fairly sure of that early on. But he had always imagined it happening later on, perhaps, when they were settled in their chosen careers or something. The bond had changed everything. Harry once again had his thoughts interrupted as Teddy pulled at his leg. He picked him up and tossed him high into the air. The little boy screamed with laughter as Harry did it a second time. "Are you ready for cake then little man?"

The group soon gathered around Teddy's high chair as they sang to him. Harry had to laugh as Teddy looked at them as if they were crazy before tentatively exploring the small piece of cake in front of him. Once Teddy had licked some frosting off his hands he went for it with enthusiasm. Harry wasn't sure if there was more cake on the little boy or on the floor. Teddy was smiling madly and seemed quite pleased with himself. The others talked and laughed as they ate their own cake. He felt a hand slide across his back and turned to see Hermione standing beside him. "I think he rather enjoyed that. Perhaps I should steal him away for a quick bath."

"He certainly needs one. Though I am not sure that is in keeping with you taking it easy," Harry commented.

Hermione rolled her eyes at him. "I said I would play with Teddy. I have not yet gotten the chance so I think a little bath playtime would be perfect. Plus it would help Andromeda out." Before Harry could say anything she moved to the high chair and snatched Teddy up. She held him with an arm around his stomach so his messy hands were facing away from her. She gave Harry a bewitching smile and headed for the stairs.

After a few minutes Andromeda asked Harry, "Where did our little guy disappear to?"

"Oh, Hermione spirited him away for a bath," Harry said.

"Oh, she didn't have to do that!"

"She knows that. I think she secretly wanted some time with him," Harry said.

"She is a kind woman, Harry." Andromeda said warmly.

"I know. Too kind sometimes. I think perhaps I will just peek in on them."

"Let her know that Teddy may be ready for bed so she can just put him in his pajamas when he is done with bath," Andromeda said.

"Will do." Harry went upstairs and followed the sounds of delighted squeals, babbles and splashes. He stood silently against the bathroom door frame and watched as Hermione knelt by the bathtub and splashed Teddy lightly. He could only see part of Teddy's body behind Hermione's. The boy slapped his hands enthusiastically on the top of the water sending splashes flying. Hermione giggled, picked up a small bath toy, filled it with water and squeezed it out again hitting Teddy in the belly. The little boy giggled happily. He watched as she asked him, "You like that, do you? Well, let's try it again!" Teddy giggled again and Harry let a smile spread across his lips. Hermione was going to make a wonderful mother.

"Hey, you two, no laughing during bath time," Harry said as he fully entered the small room. For the first time, he caught sight of Teddy and nearly gasped. The little boy had his green eyes still but had morphed his hair into a bushy mess of short curls that were the exact color of Hermione's. Harry suddenly saw his future full of children looking very much like Teddy. In that moment he realized how very much he wanted Hermione to be the mother of his children. The thought made his heart pulse quickly.

"That doesn't sound fair at all does it Teddy? I think we may need to splash him for that comment," Hermione said playfully, flicking water at him.

Harry smiled at her and bent to kiss her on the forehead. "Not too tired are you?"

"No, I'm fine."

"Good. Andromeda said to just put him in his pajamas when you are done. He may be getting sleepy soon."

"Alright, that sounds good. We'll be finished soon," Hermione said.

"I'll leave you to it then." He left Hermione, hearing more giggles as he did so.

Hermione finished washing Teddy and as she got him into his pajamas she decided to sit in the rocking chair with him for a just a moment. The little boy cuddled up to her, laying his head on her chest and bringing his legs up under him. She gently rocked him and breathed in his fresh baby scent. Her mind wandered to earlier that night. Hermione had watched Harry toss Teddy in the air, smiling broadly and talking gently to him. She had never really seen him with children before and she was struck by how naturally he seemed to take to it. She wondered if he ever thought of having children of his own. She was sure he probably had some reservations about it considering his own upbringing, but she was sure he would be a wonderful father. Hermione's body felt a bit heavy and she let herself relax into the rocking chair. She was more tired than she cared to admit to anyone. She hummed a little tune and felt her eye lids grow heavy.

A good half hour had passed and Hermione had still not returned with Teddy. Harry caught Andromeda's eye and she tilted her head to the stairs. He took her meaning and went up to check on them. They were not in the bathroom anymore and so he moved to the nursery. He noticed it was quiet and slowly slipped through the door of the room. He found both Teddy and Hermione fast asleep in the rocking chair. He couldn't keep the smile from his face. It was a sweet moment and Harry found himself picturing her rocking their own children. He wondered if she had sang him a song. It seemed like something she would do. He quietly stepped closer to them and gently picked Teddy up. The little boy shifted slightly in his arms but didn't wake. Harry placed him gently in his crib and then turned to Hermione. He knelt down beside the rocking chair and stroked her arm gently. "Hermione? Hermione wake up."

Hermione was pulled from her sleep and looked around dazed for a moment. She wasn't quite sure where she was and then suddenly she remembered Teddy. She sat up with a bit of a jerk. "Teddy! Where's Teddy?"

Harry put his hand on her shoulder and spoke softly, "Whoa, it's alright. I put him in his crib. You did a great job putting him to sleep. Are you ready to go?"

Harry watched as Hermione scowled and asked, "Did I miss the cake?"

Harry's stomach turned at her look of confusion. Was this one of those memory slips Madam Pomfrey had warned him of? He gently said, "We already had cake, remember? That's why you gave Teddy a bath." He watched as she seemed to suddenly remember and shake her head.

"Right, of course. Sorry, I think I'm just tired." Hermione rose from the rocking chair and went down stairs with Harry. Her head was starting to ache and her body seemed to weigh more than it should.

Harry watched her with concern. Her movements were a bit stiff and slow. He led her down the stairs and they made their goodbyes. Ron approached him and said quietly, "Is Hermione alright? She looks a bit pale." Harry had noticed the same thing.

"I think she is just tired. I found her asleep in the rocking chair with Teddy. I'm taking her home so she can rest."

"Let me know if I can help," Ron offered.

"Thanks, Ron." He turned to see Hermione saying goodbye to Luna and escorted her out the door. He took her hand and was alarmed to find it trembling slightly. "I think side along would be best," he suggested. Hermione nodded to him and then spun on the spot. They arrived just outside the doors of the manor. Harry saw Hermione sway and quickly wrapped his arm around her. She leaned against him but stayed on her feet. He led her inside where Colby was ready to greet them. Harry instructed him to bring up some tea to Hermione's room and he led her to the stairs.

By the time they had reached her room Hermione felt ready to collapse. Her head had taken on a pulse of its own and she wanted nothing more than to fall on the bed and sleep. She didn't protest however when Harry handed her pajamas and informed her he would wait for her to change. She entered the bathroom and quickly changed her clothes. When she came out she found her bed covers pulled back and a warm cup of tea on her night stand. Harry helped her get settled into bed before handing her the tea cup. She was glad her hands were steady again. The tea slid down her throat and made her even more sleepy. Harry gently tucked her into bed. "Do you need anything else?"

Hermione was tempted to ask for a pain potion but she didn't want to worry him and she was sure once she fell asleep she would feel better. She began to shake her head but then thought better of it and simply said, "I'm alright. Thank you, Harry. I had a wonderful evening."

Harry bent down and kissed her sweetly. "I'm glad. Sleep well my love." Harry quietly turned out the lights and closed the door behind him. He went to his room and began getting ready for bed. His mind was full of concern and worry. He couldn't shake the image of Hermione's confused expression when she had awoken at Andromeda's. She had nearly collapsed into bed just now. Then there was the advice that Neville had offered. Crawling into bed he tried to focus on happier things. The image of Hermione playing with Teddy and holding him tenderly sprang to his mind. He had not considered a family until that moment. Marriage and children were always too far down the road in his mind to give much thought to. And he would be the first to admit he was not at all sure about his parenting abilities. But tonight he had realized he wanted those things. He wanted them with Hermione. He would gladly face the challenge of raising a family if he could do it with her by his side.

Hermione spent a frustrating twenty minutes trying to fall asleep but the pounding in her head was relentless and she couldn't relax. With a tired moan she whispered, "Biddy?" There was a small pop and the little elf appeared beside her bed.

"Miss is calling me? Is Miss unwell? Should I get Master Harry?"

Hermione could tell she had upset the poor dear and sat up slowly, "No, It's alright Biddy. I just have a headache and I confess I am too tired to fetch a pain potion. Would you mind getting me one?"

The little elf's eyes grew with concern for her and she quickly bounced about, "Of course! I is being right back!"

Hermione watched her enter the bathroom and return moments later with the vial in hand. She offered it to her and Hermione quickly drank it down. The pain lessened a bit and she laid back down with a sigh. "Thank you, Biddy."

"Of course! Sleep well, Miss," Biddy whispered. The elf silently left and wrung her hands with worry. She knew the girl was not really her Mistress but she was confident that in time she would be and Biddy had grown to care for her. She was tempted to tell Master Harry about the pain potion but did not want to disturb him if he was asleep. Standing in the hall way for a few more minutes she was relieved when Harry exited his room and headed toward her. "Master! I is not expecting you to be awakes."

Harry smiled down at Biddy. "I am having a hard time calming my mind."

"Is Master needing anything to eat or drink?" Biddy offered.

"No, thank you," Harry said. Upon further inspection he could tell Biddy seemed agitated about something. She kept ringing her hands together and Harry then seemed to realize that they were standing just a few feet from Hermione's door. He drew his eye brows together and asked quietly, "Were you checking on Hermione just now?"

Biddy seemed to jump a bit at his question and shook her head several times in the affirmative. "Miss did not ask me not to tell you, so I is thinking it is alright to tell you."

Harry wasn't sure what that meant. "Tell me what?"

"Miss Hermione is summoning me because she has a headache and was needing a potion but was too tired to fetch it. I is giving it to her, Sir. She is shaking when I handed the potion to her. I is being worried for her." Biddy was bouncing around nervously.

Harry tried to calm her a bit by smiling at her, and putting a hand on her boney shoulder said, "Thank you for telling me Biddy. I will look in on her. She is tired and will most likely feel much better in the morning."

"Yes, Sir."

"Biddy has Hermione asked for pain potions before for headaches?" Biddy's earlier comment made him wonder if this had happened before without his knowledge.

Biddy wrung her hands again and nodded sadly up at him. "Once Miss asked for a potion but asked me not to tell you because she did not want you to worry. I is telling her that I is not liking to lie but I would not tell unless you asked, Sir. I is doing wrong, I is. I is sorry Master. Please don't send Biddy away!"

Harry knelt down to her and took her small hand. "I am not mad Biddy. I will not be sending you anywhere. You were respecting Hermione's wishes. Thank you for telling me. Now, it is late and I am sure you are wanting to sleep."

"Yes, Sir. I will be going now. Thank you for your kindness Master Harry." Harry nodded to her and then she quickly scampered off.

Harry stood in the hallway with knots in his stomach. Hermione was trying to hide her pain from him again. The fact that she had a headache that was severe enough to cause her trouble sleeping concerned him even more. He quietly opened her door and slipped inside the dark room. He let his eyes adjust for a moment and then moved toward the bed. He could tell she was lying on her side and could see the rise and fall of her body as she breathed. She appeared to be asleep. He gently reached out to stroke her cheek. She didn't stir. There was some comfort knowing she had finally drifted off and was resting. He was tempted to climb in next to her just to be near her, but he didn't want to risk waking her. He quietly left and returned to his own room. He would have to talk to her later about the headaches. He understood why she was trying to be strong. She wanted to shield him. She didn't want to seem weak. He could appreciate that but he couldn't stand her pushing him away when he might be able to help or give comfort. Harry flopped down on his bed and stared at the ceiling for a good long while before his body finally gave up and succumbed to slumber.

The next morning Harry and Hermione were at the table eating a light breakfast of English muffins and fruit. Harry noted that Hermione seemed to have more color and while she didn't eat a lot she did seem to be feeling better. "Did you sleep alright?" Harry asked. "You seem to be feeling better this morning."

"I did sleep well. I have a bit more energy today than yesterday. It was a long day yesterday but I wouldn't have missed it for the world." Hermione smiled warmly at him.

Harry smiled at her and then cautiously said, "How is your head? Biddy said you needed a pain potion last night." Harry noted the slightly shocked look on her face but she recovered quickly.

"She told you about that, huh?" Hermione watched him nod at her. "Did she tell you about the other time I asked for one as well?" Again Harry nodded at her. "Please don't be mad at her." Hermione seemed to know she was in a bit of trouble as she looked meekly up at him.

"Hermione I'm not mad her and I'm not mad at you. I just…I'm hurt I guess." Harry confessed.

Hermione had not expected that response. Harry looked sad and she suddenly felt horribly guilty for trying to hide from him. "Harry, I am so sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you. Honestly, I just…"

"I know. I know you are trying to protect me and be strong, but we are in this together. I know I might not be able to help. But I'd like the chance to try. Even if I can just get you a potion or rub your temples or cuddle with you!" Harry reached across the table and took her hand. "I know you don't want to seem needy or weak. Hermione I don't see you like that. I know you don't want me to worry but I worry more if I think you are hiding from me. Please don't push me away."

Hermione could see the hurt in his eyes and the pleading for her to let him in. She swallowed thickly as her heart beat loudly in her chest. She blinked back tears and squeezed his hand tightly. She looked down at her lap and said quietly. "Harry I'm sorry. I didn't realize…I never meant to upset you."

"I know." Harry said rising from his chair and coming to stand beside her. He gently touched her face and rose her chin so she was looking at him. He helped her rise and gave her a smile.

"I don't want to push you away."

"I know," Harry said getting closer to her.

"I'll try not to hide my pain from you anymore," Hermione's voice was a whisper as she felt Harry's breath on her cheek.

"I know," Harry said as he kissed her cheek.

Hermione smiled and said breathlessly, "I thought I was the know it all?"

Harry smiled as his lips met hers. He pulled her against him gently and with slow movements let his hands move along her waist and up her back. His hand found her curls and he pulled her even closer as he deepened their kiss. He felt her wrap her arms around his neck and into his hair. He ended the kiss for need of air but tightened his embrace and he hugged her tightly. He felt her nuzzle her face into his neck. They just stood there for a moment. Harry breathing in her sweet scent and enjoying the feel of her curves. He pulled back a bit so he could look into her eyes. He was pleased to see her cheeks were flushed and her eyes had a twinkle to them. "I love you Hermione."

"I know," Hermione said softly with a bewitching smile.

Harry simply chuckled at her and kissed her again.

So, should they get married? Let me know your thoughts! I can't figure out why the print on the story is so small. Sorry about that.