The next morning Hermione slowly got dressed and followed the smell of bacon and eggs down to the dinning room. Harry sat at the table eating and reading the Daily Prophet. He quickly stood when he saw her enter the room. Hermione was soon in his arms.

"I thought you'd be sleeping in after our long night. I would have waited for you if I knew you were up," Harry explained as he kissed her on the cheek and led her to the seat next to him.

Hermione smiled at his consideration as she sat down. "It's alright. I just wanted to be with you. I still can't quite believe we are engaged."

Harry saw her blush at the admission. He watched her scoop a small spoonful of eggs on to her plate and grab a slice of toast. He frowned a bit when she didn't dish up more. Pushing back a sigh he said, "I know what you mean. It still amazes me as well. I was almost afraid you'd reject me. I am thrilled you are willing to have me! It's no secret I'm marrying up."

Hermione gave him a light chuckle but she could tell he was quite serious. "I could say the same, Harry. I am sorry I hesitated last night. It was just very…unexpected."

"I apologize for that. Still, no regrets this morning?" Harry asked only half kidding.

Hermione gave him a grin and shook her head firmly. "No regrets at all! I find myself completely calm and entirely overjoyed at the prospect of becoming Mrs. Harry Potter." Hermione then admired her ring and declared, "Plus, I have no intention of giving you back this ring, which I think means you are stuck with me."

It was Harry's turn to chuckle. "That was my plan all along, my love." He watched her nibble on her toast and wondered if she really felt as good as she was trying to look. After a few more minutes, Hermine had barely managed a couple bites of eggs and half of her toast before she set her fork down. She took a long drink of water before sitting back in her chair. "Can I get you something else?" Harry asked.

Hermione knew he was concerned about her eating enough, but she simply couldn't stomach anything more at the moment. Her head was beginning to throb painfully and it seemed to be causing her stomach to turn a bit. She put on a smile and said, "No, I think I'm done, thanks."

"But you hardly ate," Harry said with concern. "Are you alright?"

"My head hurts a little to be honest. Perhaps I'll just go lay down on the couch in the study for a little while," Hermione said as she pushed back her chair and began to rise. The movement sent a new stab of pain shooting through her skull. She closed her eyes against the pain and dizziness, gripping the side of the table for support.

Harry watched all the color drain from her face when she rose from her chair. She closed her eyes for a moment as she swayed. He jumped up, quickly coming to her side.

Hermione opened her eyes as Harry came to help her and said softly, "Sorry, I'm just a bit dizzy."

"It's alright. I'll help you to the couch." Harry wrapped an arm around her waist and led her to the next room. Out of the corner of his eye he carefully watched Hermione's face. Her jaw tensed and she kept pushing her eyes closed as they walked. Her breathing began to become a bit erratic. He could tell she was in quite a bit of pain. Harry laid her back on the couch and made sure she was comfortable. Her eyes remained closed, her brow furrowed. He called for Biddy to bring him a pain potion and within seconds Hermione held it in her hand and swallowed it down. She sighed in some relief and closed her eyes once more. "Can I get you anything else?" Harry asked.

"Can you close the drapes? I think the light makes it worse." Hermione whispered.

Harry waved his wand and the heavy drapes closed around the windows dimming the room considerably. He could see her relax a bit more and bent to kiss her forehead. As he did so he was surprised to find it quite warm. She usually didn't get a fever except directly after an attack. Harry was about to call Biddy to bring a fever reducer but noticed that Hermione's breathing had evened out and she had fallen asleep. He didn't want to wake her. If the fever was still there when she woke up then be would be sure to give her some of the potion. He sighed and stepped to the fireplace, threw in some powder and then stuck his head inside. Soon, Madam Pomfrey appeared on the other side.

"Harry! Is Hermione alright? Do I need to come through?" The mediwitch asked with concern.

"No, I don't think so. That is to say, I don't think you need to come, but I wanted to discuss something with you," Harry explained.

"Of course. What is it?"

"Well, just now Hermione seemed to get a sudden headache. It appeared rather painful. She was dizzy and I had to help her lie down. I gave her a pain potion and then she asked me if I would close the drapes. She said she thought the light was making it worse. Have you heard of that before? It seemed rather odd to me," Harry confessed.

"Ah, yes, I have actually. Sometimes when a person has an extreme headache, or migraine, their eyes become sensitive to light, causing their pain to increase. Darkness is a relief. Did she seem to relax when it was darker?"

"Yes."

"Interesting. Did she complain of nausea?" The mediwitch asked.

"No, but she didn't seem to have an appetite at breakfast. She hardly ate anything," Harry explained.

"Well, she may have felt a bit sick to her stomach. It's one of the side effects of a migraine. It seems her headaches are intensifying. An unpleasant feeling I'm afraid," Madam Pomfrey confessed.

"She also felt warm to me," Harry said.

"Hmm, well, a slight fever can happen, but considering her trouble with fever after an attack we might want to keep an eye on it. Did you give he a fever reducer?"

"No, she fell asleep and I didn't want to wake her," Harry confessed.

"That's alright. Just notify me if it doesn't let up." Harry nodded his understanding. Madam Pomfrey continued, "Thank you for filling me in. Keep me posted about any other headaches she may have. I'll try to come see her in a couple of days."

"Thank you," Harry said before he pulled his head out of the fireplace. Turning toward the couch he was pleased to see Hermione was still sleeping soundly.

Hermione slept until after lunch. Harry had not left the study. He read, played chess with Colbey and paced. When at last Hermione showed signs of waking he helped her slowly sit up and encouraged her to drink something. Her fever seemed to have left, for which he was grateful for. He had ventured to open up the drapes as the sun was now not hitting that side of the house directly. He studied her for a moment. She seemed tired still, but not in pain. He sat on the couch with her snuggled into his side. When she had assured him she wasn't in any pain and that the light was not bothering her, he gently asked, "Did you have a date in mind?"

Hermione was not expecting that question. She knew instinctively that he was talking about their wedding and simply shook her head slowly and shrugged. "I hadn't thought about it really. You?"

"Well, I don't want to rush you, but if it does cause your attacks to lessen then I really think we should do it as soon as possible. But I know that girls tend to plan out their wedding day for years in advance and I'd hate to rob you of the experience. It's your big day, and I want you to be happy."

Hermione was touched by his speech and she knew that his rush was simply in the hopes of her avoiding further pain. "Thank you, Harry. I appreciate that. But to be honest I never really spent much time coming up with fantasies about my future wedding. I mean I always hoped I would get married and that I would have a beautiful dress but past that I never really thought much about it."

"Well, a beautiful dress is a must! And you shall have any dress you want," Harry declared. Hermione grinned broadly. Harry continued, "Do you want a large wedding or a small one?" Harry asked.

Hermione didn't hesitate as she responded, "Definitely small. Just close friends. The last thing I want is a bunch of cameras flashing and an article in the paper about us. Though it's bound to happen eventually I suppose. The Savior of the Wizarding World getting married is kind of big news."

Harry nodded in agreement. "Well, I think if we are careful we can avoid any unwanted attention on the big day. I agree with you about a small wedding. I don't fancy strangers or politicians being witness to the most important day of my life."

Hermione squeezed his hand to convey her sentiments. Harry raised her hand to his lips and placed a soft kiss on the back of her hand before he continued. "Alright, so small guest list, perfect dress, do you want to get married in a church or somewhere else?"

"You know, I think I want to get married right here," Hermione suggested.

"Right here?" Harry asked with a raised eyebrow motioning to the coffee table and chairs.

Hermione sat up a bit so she could see his face and rolled her eyes at him playfully. "Well, not right here in the study! What I meant was outside in the grass, near the gardens. It would be so pretty with the leaves turning colors. Fall is my favorite time of year."

Harry smiled at her enthusiasm. "I think that could be arranged. Biddy would love that because then she could make food for everyone that comes. She is already thrilled to make the cake. I hope you don't mind?"

"No, of course not! I am sure she will do a wonderful job," Hermione declared.

"Alright, so we have the location, the size, the dress of your choosing, and the cake figured out."

"Dancing! I want to dance at my wedding," Hermione smiled.

"I find dancing will be the perfect excuse to hold my new wife very close during the party so you will get no argument from me," Harry grinned wickedly. He smiled even more at the blush that rose on Hermione's cheeks. Harry said, "I think now we just need to pick a date then," Harry said. Hermione bit her lip and nodded but her eyes seemed to be unfocused and far away. "Hermione? Are you feeling alright?" Harry asked tentatively.

Harry's voice brought her out of her musings and she shook herself a bit. "Sorry, I was just…how can I pick a date when I might…what if…"

"What if you have an attack that day?" Harry finished for her. She nodded sadly. "I guess we just do the best we can."

"But I want to walk down the aisle, Harry, not be carried! I want to dance, not sit all night as people fuss over me. I want to…" she looked at her lap and picked at the blanket there before saying, "to…sleep with you," Hermione's face burned hot but she continued softly, "Not be so tired I can't keep my eyes open."

Harry found his own cheeks quite warm as well, but he could understand her frustration. He also wanted those things for her. For them. There was no guarantee though and that was something hard to accept. He gave her a kind smile and slowly pulled her up to standing. He took her in his arms, pressed a kiss to her forehead and then began dancing with her. He swayed her back and forth gently, and said softly, "I know. I wish I could guarantee an attack wouldn't happen. I pray it doesn't, but even if it does, and you are too sick, even if I have to carry you down the aisle, the day will still be wonderful, Hermione. It will be wonderful because you will become my wife. As for sleeping with you, even if we need to wait a day or two before…well, before we are united in every way, there is no doubt I will be in your bed."

Hermione rested her head on his shoulder. "Our bed."

"What?" Harry asked a little confused.

"Our bed. It won't be my bed or your bed after that. It will be our bed," Hermione said softly.

Harry nodded, "I like the sound of that." He sensed she was more calm. He stopped dancing and asked with a grin, "So, when should we seal the deal?"

Hermione smiled back at him, licked her lips and said with a shrug, "A week?" She watched as Harry's eyebrows shot up and he looked surprised.

"That desperate for me, huh Granger?" Harry teased.

"Well, you're the one that said you wanted it to happen as soon as possible," Hermione countered.

"I do. I just didn't think you'd go for anything less than three weeks," Harry confessed.

"Well, if you'd rather wait, we-"

"No! No, a week sounds great," Harry said.

"I mean, it's just going to be simple so it won't take too much time to prepare I don't think and with Biddy helping... I just thought…" Hermione rambled, sudden feeling insecure.

Harry quickly jumped in. "Hermione, it is going to be amazing. Please, don't worry. Trust me, I would run down to the nearest court room today if you'd let me." Hermione gave him a smiling scoff. "But I want to do it properly for you. So, a week it is. That will make it October 15th. "

Hermione nodded, "Alright, then." She beamed at him and closed her eyes as he kissed her soundly.

It was decided that instead of sending out invitations, which took time and money, that they would simply invite everyone they wanted to be at the wedding to have dinner at the manor. It would allow them the perfect opportunity to share their big announcement and inform the guests of the date and time of the ceremony. Hermione considered it a replacement for a dress rehearsal dinner. She was very excited and a bit nervous to share the news. It was sure to come as a shock to her guests so she was helping Biddy plan every last detail.

The next evening the impressive dining room table had been expanded to its fullest. It was draped in a light blue linen cloth with white and silver china sparkling at each place setting. There were small vases of Lilies spread across the corners of the room. The smells of the kitchen drifted about the place making Harry's mouth water. Biddy had gone all out and Hermione had even helped with some of the finger foods earlier that day. Harry hoped she had not over done it. She was currently upstairs getting ready to greet their guests. He had been overjoyed to see Hermione step into the role of Mistress of the Manor with enthusiasm. She was anxious to make a good impression as this would be the first time many of their friends would be seeing their home. Taking a deep breath, Harry checked his watch. He was more nervous than he had anticipated. There was only five minutes before the first guests were expected to arrive. Just as he was heading to the stairs to check on Hermione, he saw her begin descending the steps. She had chosen to wear the dress he had bought for her. It was rather appropriate considering it was what she had been wearing when he had proposed. She was absolutely gorgeous. Her hair laid on her shoulders in simple, loose curls. Her skin looked flawless, and her lips sparkled ever so slightly in the light. Her eyes locked with his and she smiled down at him.

"Is everything ready? Sorry, I took so long, my hair was not very cooperative," Hermione confessed as she ran a hand over her curls.

"Everything looks wonderful! And your hair is perfect. You are radiant." Harry cupped her face in his hands and kissed her gently. He saw her nervous smile and heard her sigh. He asked, "Alright?"

"Yes, I just hope we get through this before…you know," Hermione said quietly, looking at the ground. Harry nodded. He carried the same worry as she did . Today had been attack free thus far, but both of them worried it may not continue as such. He kissed her again and said softly, "I'll stay close. We can always hope, my love." He hugged her tightly and then said, "So, how about we shock our friends with our news and have a good time doing it?"

Hermione bit her lip as Harry grinned wickedly at her. She smiled broadly and said with a chuckle, "Perhaps, we should just leave the door open and let them find us snogging in the entry way on their arrival."

Harry laughed and swung her into his embrace. "I do love you. And while I would be more than pleased to do as you suggest, I hardly think that would go along with your rather formal dinner party plans."

Hermione put on a pretty pout and said with a sigh, "What a shame."

Harry kissed her again just as the doorbell rang. "Here we go!" Harry declared as he made his way to the door. Before he could reach to open it Colbey skidded to a hault in front of him with a squeak.

"Master is not to be opening the door, Sir. It would not be proper on a night like tonight. I is doing my duty and I will lead your guest to the study to greet you."

Harry smiled down at Colbey's very serious expression. He looked to Hermione, who just shrugged and then nodding to Colbey, took Hermione's hand and led her to the study to await their guests.

An hour later, the dining room was buzzing with chatter and the clanking of silverware. The dinner portion of the evening was coming to a close as everyone finished up their plates. Harry looked around the room, pleased to see that everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. The food had certainly been delicious. The room was at full capacity. The Weasley's were of course all in attendance, as was Neville and Luna who sat next to Andromeda. Harry was glad she had been able to find a babysitter for the evening. Kingsley sat at the far end of the table next to Headmistress McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey. Hagrid's massive bulk took up most of the left corner of the table. Harry was grateful the manor had high ceilings. Harry felt Hermione take his hand under the table. Typically it would have been improper for them to sit next to one another but Harry had deemed it necessary should Hermione require his assistance. He glanced at her. She gave him a slight nod and a smile. That was his cue.

He stood and raised his glass, waiting for his guests to turn their attention toward him. Harry suddenly felt his pulse beat wildly in his neck. Clearing his throat he said, "My friends I am so glad you could join us this evening. Many of you, if not all of you, are as close to a family as me and Hermione have. Because of this, we thought it would be appropriate to throw this little gathering as there is something Hermione and I would like to share with you all." Harry could see peoples smiles widen and they seemed to guess what was coming. Ron's eyes seemed to grow quite large as his mouth grinned broadly. Harry swallowed and continued, "Hermione has graciously consented to be my wife." He bent and kissed her soundly on the lips. The room was full of gasps, cheers, clapping and squeals of delight. A myriad of voices shouted out to him. Ron shouted a hearty, "Good job, mate!" Mrs. Weasley began crying and said, "I always knew they would be good together." Others joined in with their congratulations and Harry was pleased to see that even Ginny had a smile on her face. He raised his hands to quiet the group before saying, "Due to certain circumstances, which I believe all of you are aware of, we have chosen to move things along quiet quickly. The ceremony will be held here, in the back gardens October the 15th at 3pm. Consider this your invitation." Harry finished with a grin. He was quiet amused by the looks of shock and confusion that met his pronouncement. Several gasps of surprise ensued, along with Mrs. Weasley saying quiet animatedly, "You can't possibly be ready by then! It's only six days away!"

Harry looked down to Hermione who was not trying to hide her bemused smile in the least. She caught his eye and he gave her a slight nod of the head. Hermione stood up next to him. This action seemed to quiet the group once more. Hermione's voice was soft but commanding. "We are aware of the time line. As you may know, my condition is only growing worse. Our hope is that our marriage may satisfy the conditions of the bond and thus provide me with some relief. It is because of this hope that we do not wish to have a lengthy engagement. Since the entire wedding party is present this evening, I see no reason why we cannot be ready in six days time. I hope I can count on all of you to help in some way." A series of nods answered her and she continued, "We wanted a small and simple ceremony. Just our dearest friends. I trust we can count on you to keep this a secret as long as possible to avoid unwanted attention from the press?" Another series of nods greeted her and she smiled. "We know this is a shock but it seemed like the right step to take. And I assure you I love him very much." She squeezed Harry's hand and felt him squeeze hers in return.

"Well, I think Hermione has summed it up beautifully. Let's retire to the Study were we can talk more freely. I believe Biddy is planning to bring us all a fabulously fattening dessert in just a few minutes time," Harry said with a grin before pushing his chair back, leading Hermione by the hand to the Study. A cacophony of scrapping chairs was heard as everyone rose to follow them with excited voices.

Harry led Hermione to a corner of the couch. "How are you holding up?"

"I'm doing just fine. I think they took it rather well," Hermione conceded.

"You were quiet commanding, my love. Just be prepared because now the interrogations will begin," Harry said with a smile.

Harry was right of course. Once in the study a volley of questions and various conversations ensued, all centered on the upcoming nuptials. Hermione was cornered by Ginny and Luna who were peppering her with questions about what she had planned for the wedding. Hermione confessed that her only real want was a beautiful dress. Both girls lit up and insisted that they accompany her the day after next to find the perfect one.

"The dress you are wearing tonight is quite stunning," Luna said.

"It is gorgeous! Where did you find it?" Ginny asked.

"Actually, Harry bought it for me. I have no idea where he got it. It was a surprise," Hermione confessed.

Both girls looked shocked by that bit of news. Ginny finally said, "If I had known he had such good taste in women's clothing I would have made him buy me a dress!" That set everyone laughing.

When the laughter died down Hermione said, "We haven't really planned for bridesmaids or groomsmen, but I would be honored if you would stand with me during the ceremony," Hermione offered the two girls.

"Of course, it would be my pleasure," Luna said serenely.

Hermione turned to Ginny and offered, "It's alright if you don't want to. I know this must be weird and maybe a bit hard for you Ginny. I don't want to upset you."

Ginny gave her a kind smile before saying, "It's a bit sudden, but I have come to understand and see how Harry cares for you. I've had some time to move on and I wouldn't miss this for the world." Ginny gave her a quick hug.

"Thank you, I appreciate that," Hermione said with a smile.

"So, what if it doesn't work?" Ginny asked with sudden seriousness. "I mean, what if…"

"The attacks don't stop?" Hermione finished for her. Ginny simply nodded. Luna gave her a sad kind of look. Sighing, Hermione said, "I don't know. I guess I just continue to do the best I can. We just keep hoping they find Atticus soon." Both girls nodded, giving her sad smiles.

"Well, we will do all we can to help ," Luna offered.

Hermione smiled her thanks and then moved off to find Harry. She spotted him talking to Ron and decided not to interrupt.

Harry's eyes seemed to unconsciously follow Hermione around the room. He was having a good time but his nerves were a bit on edge. Still, he was pleased to see her talking and laughing. Ron's voice called him from his thoughts. "So, an old married man, huh?"

"Who said anything about old?" Harry said.

Ron shrugged, "It's just a thing they say." Ron smiled but then said seriously, "Harry, I'm happy for you guys, but what if this doesn't work?"

Harry sighed, "I'm not marrying her to fix this. I mean I want it to fix it, but I love her, Ron. That's why I'm marry her."

"I know that. It's obvious you care for her. I'm not questioning that. I just was wondering if you've thought it through. What if you marry her and the attacks don't stop? What then?"

"I keep up my training. I hope and pray and help anyway I can until Atticus is brought in. Then, I do what I've trained for. He won't stand a chance." Harry said darkly.

"Harry, isn't what you are training for slightly illegal? I am surprised Boggs even agreed to it," Ron confessed.

"It's a grey area. What he did to Hermione is illegal and if I have to cross a legal line to save her I will," Harry stated.

"Hermione won't thank you for being thrown in Azkaban," Ron said.

"They wouldn't dare. All this time, all my life, they've hounded me. Put me in the spot light and on a pedestal. I have never asked anything of them. I've never used my position to advantage. I've never asked any favors. They owe me this. If this is the only way to get Atticus to cooperate and to free Hermione then I'm not letting a bunch of Ministry officials stop me. Besides, I'd rather be in Azkaban and have her live than be here without her," Harry declared.

Ron sighed, "I know. I am just not sure she would feel the same. Just be smart about it." Harry nodded to him and Ron continued, "How is it going anyway? The training?"

"It's intense, but I am definitely improving. It seems that with the right teacher I am actually quite capable," Harry admitted.

Ron nodded then changed the subject. "So, how long do you think until this wedding hits the papers? You can't avoid it you know."

"I know. I am just hoping not to have people storming the doors on the big day. If we can keep the location a secret we should be alright. The location of the Manor is unplotable and I trust those that already know about it. I'd prefer to keep it under the radar. However, I suspect they will find out sooner rather than later about the wedding. Hermione wants a dress, which means she'll need to go shopping for one. I doubt the dress shop owner will keep quiet about helping one of the Golden Trio buy a wedding dress."

Ron laughed, "Yeah, that will definitely stir things up. Just tell the girls not to mention when or where. Let them guess until after it happens."

"Good idea," Harry conceded. "So, you'll be my best man right?"

"Of course!" Ron and Harry spent a happy couple of minutes bantering about what Ron's duties were going to be and whether or not Harry got a bachelor party. Harry's eyes wondered to Hermione again. She looked happy, but he saw the slight tremor in her hand as she pushed back her curls.

Mrs. Weasley appeared beside Hermione and gave her all the congratulations she could ever want. Hermione interrupted her monologue about wedding plans and simply said, "The only thing I was hoping for Mrs. Weasley is to borrow the tent you used at Bill and Fleurs wedding. It think it would be perfect for the party after the ceremony and with a warming charm it should be quite comfortable in this crisp fall weather."

Mrs. Weasley shook her head excitedly, "Of course, my dear! That won't be a problem at all! I will have the boys bring it by the morning of the wedding. It doesn't take much to set up. I am happy to help."

With Mrs. Weasley beaming and happy to have found a way to be useful, Hermione moved on. She soon found Ron, who had detached himself from Harry, and gave him a hug. Ron said, "You better not let Harry see you doing that, he may hit me."

Hermione laughed , "I doubt that, Ronald. Still, that could be fun to see."

Ron grinned at her. "Congratulations Hermione. I am happy for you guys. Really, I am. It's obvious he loves you."

"Thank you, Ron. I hear you have a new girl?" Hermione ventured.

Ron turned a little pink. "Um, yeah, Allison. She's fun. We haven't been together long but I really like her."

"Good. I'm glad. You have to bring her to the wedding," Hermione said.

"Really?" Ron asked in surprise.

"Of course. I want to meet her and you don't want to attend a wedding alone. It's perfect."

"Alright, I will," Ron conceded. "I think you'll like her. She's not as brainy as you, but she has quick wit."

"I look forward to meeting her. I assume Harry has asked you to stand in as his best man?" Hermione asked.

"Yeah, he did. Not that he is allowing me to do much. He wouldn't even agree to a night out," Ron confessed.

"Perhaps, I can change his mind. That is if you promise this night out will not involve women or getting drunk," Hermione said seriously gleam in her eye.

"You're scary sometimes, you know that?" Ron said with a smile. "I just wanted to get together with some old friends or guys at the office for a bit. Nothing crazy, I promise."

"Well, I will try to help you with that than."

"I don't know. He seemed pretty set on sticking close to you this week," Ron said.

"As you know I can be very persuasive. I'll figure something out."

"I believe you will. Let me know," Ron nodded.

"I will." Hermione moved toward the side table to get a glass of water. She surveyed the room and felt blessed to have so many friends. Most were holding plates with lemon cream tarts on them. It was one of Biddy's specialties. She saw Mr. Weasley approach her and smiled warmly at him.

"Congratulations, Hermione," he said.

"Thank you."

"I wondered if I might talk to you for a moment?" Mr. Weasley asked. Hermione nodded and followed Mr. Weasley further into the corner for more privacy.

"What can I do for you?" Hermione asked.

"Actually, it's what I would like to do for you, my dear." Mr. Weasley said. Hermione raised her eyebrows as an invitation for him to continue. "It has occurred to me that since your parents are not…that they…that is to say…"

Hermione noted his struggle and said sadly, "They don't remember me."

Mr. Weasley looked uncomfortable but said, "Err, Yes. I was just thinking what a shame it would be if you had to walk down the aisle alone. And, seeing as you are like a second daughter to me, I wondered if you would allow me the honor of giving you away?"

Hermione was speechless by his offer of kindness. She had been thinking about the hole that her parents' absence would make and had even shed a few tears over it. Now, here stood a man who had let her into his home on multiple occasions, treated her like family, and had fought beside her. He was offering to help fill part of that hole. Hermione knew it would not be the same. She knew Mr. Weasley was not trying to replace her father but was simply trying to provide comfort and strength on one of the most important days of her life. She felt tears well up in her eyes, even as she let a smile touch her lips. "I would love that, Mr. Weasley. More than you realize." Without thinking she embraced the man in a rib splitting hug.

Mr. Weasley wrapped his arms around the girl in front of him for a brief moment before pulling back and saying, "Should you need anything, please let me know. I wish you and Harry every happiness, Hermione." She found her voice wouldn't work, so she gave him a watery eyed smile as he moved away.

Suddenly it was quite late and the last of their guests were leaving. Hermione felt quite exhausted but grateful that she had made it through the night without incident. She collapsed on the couch in the study with a sigh of contentment.

"I'd say that was a smashing success, my love," Harry said as he sat beside her.

"I think everyone enjoyed themselves. Between the Manor and the news of our upcoming wedding there was certainly plenty to talk about," Hermione said with a grin.

"Quite. I especially enjoyed Hagrid's boisterous comment about the Manor being so large we could fill it with several little Potters!" Harry laughed at the remembered embarrassment that they had both felt in the moment. Hermione, he noted blushed beside him. He kissed her on the cheek. "I have to confess I look forward to practicing for that in just a few days' time." Hermione blushed further and he pulled her into his side, kissing the top of her head chuckling. "Well, I think it's time we got you in bed."

Hermione sighed against his body, "Maybe I'll just sleep here."

"Nonsense." Harry scooped her up and carried her easily up the stairs to her room. He set her down gently when they approached her door. "I'll leave you to get undressed. You looked quite lovely tonight." He kissed her gently before she slipped into her room. He headed to his own room to get ready for bed. In five minutes he had on a pair of gym shorts, an old t-shirt, and had brushed his teeth. He knew it would probably take Hermione a bit longer to change so he settled into a chair and attempted to clear his mind.

Hermione was grateful for Biddy's help as she undressed and got ready for bed. Biddy beamed as Hermione praised her repeatedly for all her hard work that evening. She moved to her desk to begin writing a quick check list of things that needed to be done before the wedding. Biddy called from the bathroom informing her that the supply of pain potion was running low and that she would run to the basement to retrieve more. Hermione gave her an absent minded reply in the affirmative as she bit the tip of her quill in thought. Jotting down a few more tasks she stifled a yawn. It was almost too good to be true that today she had been free from pain. As the thought hit her and she stood to move to the bed a white hot pain ripped through her body, sending her to the floor.

Harry breathed deeply as he let his mind relax. A warmth grew inside of him, but within seconds it became uncomfortably hot. Eyes snapping open, he quickly rushed toward Hermione's room as his mind caught up with what was happening. Pushing the door open so fast it banged loudly against the wall he rushed toward Hermione's prone form. She was half hidden behind the desk. He quickly reached for her arm and her body stopped its violent quaking. She didn't stir and as he moved to hold her in his arms her head lolled to the side. To Harry's horror the right side of her head, near her temple, was matted with blood. "Hermione?" He shook her gently but was met with no response. He had not really expected one. She must have hit her head on the desk when she fell. A pop was heard and Biddy suddenly arrived with an arm full of potions. Seeing Harry cradling her Mistress she quickly put the potions down and went to work bringing him the necessary vials. Harry gently poured the potions down Hermione's throat and then carefully let his fingers assess the cut on her head. His fingers came away from her hair bloody and it make his stomach churn. "Biddy, will you Floo Madam Pomfrey and ask her to come?"

"Right away!" Biddy vanished and Harry slowly stood with Hermione in his arms. He moved her to the bed and settled her in carefully against the pillows. Within minutes Madam Pomfrey stepped in the door.

"What seems to be the problem? Your elf was quite panicked," The nurse said.

"Hermione had an attack and I think she hit her head on the desk when she fell. It's bleeding," Harry stated.

"Let me have a look." The nurse drew close to the bed and began dabbing at Hermione's temple. "It's a small cut. Head wounds always appear worse than they are. They bleed like crazy. I'll have her patched up in no time." The mediwitch waved her wand and cleaned the blood out of Hermione's hair and sealed the cut. "That should do it. She has a fever though. Did you give her the potion?"

"Yes, just before you arrived," Harry explained.

"Hmm, it's still a bit high. Keep an eye on her. I want to know if that fever goes up. She is likely to have a slight headache in the morning and the area will be a bit tender but she will be fine."

Harry gave her a weak smile. "Thank you. I'm sorry I had to disturb you. I know it is late."

"Anytime, Harry. Congratulations dear. It was a wonderful evening. I look forward to the wedding." The nurse smiled at him and turned to leave. "I think I'll let Biddy show me out."

As Harry lay down next to Hermione he couldn't relax. He kept reaching to feel her skin, making sure her fever didn't get worse. He should have known it was too much to hope for two good days in a row. Still, he was grateful the attack had not happened in the midst of all their guests. His mind wondered until he slowly slipped into sleep.

I apologize for the wait. But this is an extraordinarily long chapter! I hope you enjoyed it. Please leave comments. There is a lot going on here so please let me hear what you liked and even what you didn't like. Once again I had only one review for the last chapter. Please leave me a line!