A/N - Hi everyone! You might want to get the tissues out again with this chapter. I also just want to say that I am trying to move the timeline forward more quickly so we can get to the Remione, but my Muse fights me every single time and what I write ends up to be complete crap as a result (and then she usually sits and smirks at me with that smug, I told-you-so, look on her face). So, thank you for continuing to be patient. It is coming, I promise!

Thanks, as always, to Mary for reading over this and reassuring me about it. And thank you all for continuing to read and review!

Chapter 34

Anniversary

24 April 1999

Hermione looked at herself in the mirror one last time. She didn't know why she was so nervous about today. It was Anthony, they'd been studying together for months now and nothing had really changed between them since he asked her to Hogsmeade. He did seek out her company a little more often, she supposed, but that was all. Well, maybe he smiled at her more often too. And he did try to walk with her to class more than he had before. Okay, so maybe some things had changed.

"Ready?" Ginny called as she came into the bathroom.

"I suppose," Hermione said, frowning at her reflection.

"Don't look so excited, Hermione," Ginny laughed.

"It's not that, I'm just," she sighed. "I don't even know."

"You're nervous," Ginny said, grin on her face.

"But I don't know why though," Hermione nearly whined.

"Probably because this is the first time you've been asked to Hogsmeade by someone," Ginny said matter-of-factly. Hermione opened her mouth to protest, then closed it again. She realized that Ginny was right. She had always gone to Hogsmeade with Harry or Ron or both. She'd never had an actual date to the village.

But she was nineteen years old, for Merlin's sake, not some giggling fourth year having her first experience with a boy. She said as much to Ginny.

"So what?" Ginny said. "Doesn't mean you still can't be anxious about it."

"What if this is a mistake?" Hermione asked, biting her lip.

"I thought you liked him?"

"I do, it's just," Hermione frowned, her brow furrowed in thought. "Sometimes I get the impression that he likes me a lot more than I like him."

"Look, Hermione," Ginny said. "No one's expecting you to declare your undying love for him just because you agreed to go to Hogsmeade."

"I know, but," Hermione sighed again.

"You're thinking about this too much. Just go and have fun. If it doesn't work out, it doesn't work out."

Ginny was right. She was overthinking things. She just needed to go and enjoy the day with Anthony and see what happened from there. Hermione took a deep breath and looked back at her friend.

"All right, let's go."

Hermione's nerves faded as she and Anthony walked to Hogsmeade, chatting like they always had. Reaching the village, they headed straight for Tomes and Scrolls without even discussing it and Hermione couldn't help but laugh. They did seem well suited for one another.

After spending some time in the bookstore, they walked towards the Three Broomsticks.

"Is this all right?" Anthony asked. "We could go to Madam Puddifoot's, if you like." Hermione made a face, having heard plenty about the tea shop from Harry. Anthony chuckled.

"That's rather how I feel about it," he said.

"Have you been there?" Hermione asked.

"Once in fifth year. That was more than enough for me. What about you?"

"No, I just heard about it from Harry," Hermione explained. "I never felt the need to see it for myself." Anthony laughed as they reached the pub and opened the door for Hermione, ushering her inside.

They spent the rest of the afternoon strolling around the village and Hermione found she was quite enjoying herself. On the walk back to the school, Anthony slipped his hand into hers. Hermione looked over at him and he looked so nervous that she squeezed his hand and smiled. He immediately relaxed and they had a pleasant walk back to the castle.

"I'll walk you to your tower," Anthony said after being checked in by Filch.

"All right," Hermione agreed. They walked through the castle in relative silence, Hermione's nerves returning a bit the closer they got to Gryffindor tower.

"I had a really good time today," Anthony said when they'd reached the Fat Lady's portrait.

"Me too," Hermione said. They both stood and looked at one another, hands still clasped until Anthony leaned forward. Hermione closed her eyes as his lips brushed softly over hers before he pulled back. He smiled when she opened her eyes again.

"I'll see you tomorrow in class," Anthony said.

"Bye," Hermione replied as he turned and walked away. She watched him for a few moments and he glanced back over his shoulder and smiled at her again. Shyly returning his smile, she waved and then gave the Fat Lady the password before heading into the Common Room.

When Hermione entered, Ginny jumped up from one of the couches and grabbed her arm, towing her towards the dorms.

"So, tell me," Ginny demanded when they reached their room, which was empty.

"It was fun," Hermione said, still smiling.

"Fun?" Ginny repeated. "That's all I get?"

"Do you want to know what we did every moment?" Hermione asked.

"No, I want the good details," Ginny said.

"Gin, it was our first date," Hermione said.

"You've been spending time together for months, Hermione. This may have been your first official date, but it was not your first date."

"Well, I'm not sure how it's any of your business," Hermione said, secretly delighting in teasing Ginny for once.

"Come on, Hermione," Ginny begged. "I haven't seen Harry for two whole weeks. Let me live vicariously through you."

"All right, all right," Hermione laughed. She proceeded to give Ginny the details of her day in Hogsmeade.

"Then, on our way back to the castle, he held my hand," Hermione said.

"Finally," Ginny replied. "I was beginning to wonder if Goldstein knew what the word 'date' meant." Hermione smacked Ginny's arm with the back of her hand.

"Stop, that's mean."

"But accurate," Ginny said.

"Well, I'd rather that than be groped the entire time," Hermione retorted.

"Fair point," Ginny said. "Continue."

"He walked me back to the tower and then he kissed me." Hermione smiled again.

"Now we're getting somewhere," Ginny grinned. "How was it?"

"It was nice."

"Nice? Hermione, tea and biscuits are nice." Hermione rolled her eyes.

"It was a first kiss, Ginny, not a full-on snog."

"All right, so it was nice," Ginny conceded. "Are you going to keep seeing him?" Hermione shrugged her shoulders.

"Maybe," she said, but a small smile played at her lips.

"You are, aren't you?" Ginny said, grinning. Hermione shrugged again, but then giggled. Giggled, like a third year. Ginny smiled wider. "Why, Hermione Granger, are you smitten?" Hermione didn't respond, just shrugged a shoulder again, but the smile wouldn't leave her face.

The truth was, she had thoroughly enjoyed herself today. She and Anthony had always gotten on well, but it had been different when she knew it was a date. And no matter how Ginny teased her, the kiss had been nice. She wouldn't mind doing it again.

"Well, I'm glad," Ginny said. Hermione looked at her skeptically.

"Really?" She hadn't forgotten everything Ginny said at Teddy's party.

"Of course, I am," Ginny said, sounding insulted.

"Even after everything you've been saying about Remus?" Ginny sighed.

"I know what you've said, but I do think that you and Remus-" Hermione held a hand up to stop her.

"Gin, just," Hermione shook her head. "That's never going to happen." Ginny studied her for a moment before she nodded.

"Then, I just want you to be happy," Ginny said.

"I think I am," Hermione said, another smile breaking out across her face.

"Good," Ginny said and leaned forward and hugged her. Hermione returned it, thoughts of Remus flitting through her mind again before she pushed them firmly away.

2 May 1999

Remus rose with the sun. The ceremony wouldn't start for more than four hours, but he couldn't sleep any longer. Not that he'd done much sleeping at all last night. His thoughts and dreams had been all about that night and early morning – finding Cho Chang with her broken leg, discovering Fred Weasley had died and the horrible moment when Kingsley told him Dora was not at home as Remus had thought, but had come to the battle and lost her life. He could still feel Minerva's arms around him as he insisted that it wasn't true.

Remus pulled on track pants and a t-shirt before making his way downstairs. He heard quiet sniffling coming from the living room and walked in to find Andromeda curled up in an armchair.

"Andromeda," Remus said, so as not to startle her.

"I should have stopped her," Andromeda whispered. "I should have tied her to her bed or stunned her or put her in a body-bind. I should have stopped them both."

"You couldn't have," Remus said, kneeling down next to her. "You couldn't have stopped Dora from fighting any more than you could have stopped Ted from leaving. He needed to protect you and Dora needed to help."

"I could have tried harder," Andromeda insisted.

"I could have too," Remus reminded her. "I could have stayed like Dora wanted and then she wouldn't have had any reason to come."

"You could not have stayed away," Andromeda said.

"And neither could she," Remus said. "It took me quite some time to accept that, but I think that I finally have. I blamed myself for months." Andromeda reached out and took his hand. "But I've never blamed you." Tears ran down Andromeda's cheeks. "Dora and Ted wouldn't blame you either." She didn't respond, simply looked at her lap. Remus took one of her hands, continuing to kneel next to her despite the protest from his knees. The moon had only been two days prior and he still had a few aches and pains.

Remus squeezed Andromeda's hand and she finally looked up at him. He conjured a handkerchief and handed it to her. She dabbed at her eyes with her free hand.

"I'm sorry," she said. Remus knew she was apologizing for more than just crying.

"You have absolutely nothing to be sorry for," Remus said firmly. She stared at him for a moment before she nodded. Remus grimaced a bit as he got to his feet. "I'll make tea."

"I can do that," Andromeda said.

"I know," Remus replied with a smile. Then he turned and went into the kitchen.

Hermione woke with a silent shout, glad again that she had put up the silencing spells around her bed last night. Sighing, she scrubbed at her cheeks which were wet with tears. She had woken crying in her sleep for the last week, although her nightmares had been mostly about the Final Battle instead of Malfoy Manor. She'd lost count of the number of times she'd relived Harry's 'death', as well as the attack on Professor Snape and seeing Fred's lifeless body.

Knowing she wouldn't get anymore sleep, Hermione sat up and slipped on an oversized jumper over her pajamas. As she stood, she realized the hangings around Ginny's bed were open and her friend was missing. Frowning, Hermione made her way into the corridor and checked the loo before heading down to the Common Room.

Ginny was curled up in the corner of one of the couches, facing the empty fireplace. There was a chill over the entire room and Hermione quickly lit the fire.

"Gin?" she said softly, not wanting to startle her. Ginny turned her head towards Hermione. Her eyes were red and swollen, tear tracks marred her cheeks. "Oh, Ginny." Hermione hurried towards her and gathered the younger girl into her arms. Ginny's tears immediately returned.

"I didn't think I could cry anymore," she whispered as Hermione rubbed her back soothingly.

"How long have you been down here?" Hermione asked. Ginny shrugged.

"A while."

"Why didn't you wake me?" Ginny shrugged again. Hermione pulled back slightly from her and met her gaze. "That sister thing goes both ways, you know." Ginny managed a small laugh. They sat, side by side, staring into the fire.

"It's not just Fred," Ginny finally said. "It was that whole year, really, just everything that happened. It was so," she shook her head and shuddered a bit.

"I know," Hermione replied.

"I know that the three of you had it worse," Ginny said. Before she could continue, Hermione shook her head.

"You may have been fed and sheltered, but this is your school. You were supposed to be safe here, the professors were supposed to look after you, not let other students practice Unforgivables on you. Having to deal with everything you all did, it was just as bad."

Hermione knew some of what had happened at the school last year, Neville had shared a bit with them and Luna had as well. But Ginny never spoke much about it. Hermione assumed she had told Harry, as Harry had likely filled Ginny in on their time on the run.

"Do you want to talk about it?" Hermione asked quietly. Ginny said nothing, just stared at the fire. Hermione bit her lip before she spoke again.

"I remember always being damp. We were hungry too, of course, but everything was always cold and wet, it seemed like. We didn't want to have a fire because it would attract attention even with the wards. And warming charms only go so far." Hermione waited.

"It's not very Gryffindorish, but I was always scared," Ginny said, so quietly Hermione almost didn't hear her. "I was scared for my family and for the three of you and for the younger students. But I was also scared for myself." Hermione held her breath, waiting for Ginny to continue. "I just, I wanted my mum." Fresh tears made their way down Ginny's cheeks and Hermione felt her eyes fill. Ginny swiped at the tears, almost angrily.

"I don't think anyone knew that," Hermione said. "Neville kept telling us how brilliant you were."

"When we went into hiding at Aunt Muriel's, I'd never been so relieved," Ginny said. "And I felt horrible about it because we had no idea what happened to Luna and Neville was still here fighting with everyone and you and Harry and Ron were still missing. And there I was, safe with my family, warm, comfortable, with enough to eat."

"Do not feel guilty about that," Hermione admonished.

"How can I not?" Ginny demanded.

"Do you know what Harry spent most of his free time doing when we were on the run?" Hermione asked. "He stared at the Marauder's map, just watching you, constantly. When we found out that you tried to steal the sword, Ron was beside himself, worrying about you. If anything had happened to you, Ginny, it would have broken the two of them and then where would we be?"

Ginny rested her head on Hermione's shoulder. Hermione tightened her arm around her friend's shoulders.

"Today is going to be hard," Hermione said. "Don't make it harder by blaming yourself for things that aren't your fault." Ginny managed a nod and Hermione heard noise on the stairs going up to the girls' dorm. Looking up, she saw Claire, rubbing her eyes sleepily as she made her way down the stairs.

"Claire, what are you doing up?" Hermione asked.

"I couldn't sleep anymore," she said. She looked at Ginny and frowned. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing," Ginny said with a watery smile. Claire sat down on Ginny's other side, wriggling back into the small space between the older girl and the arm of the couch. She leaned against Ginny's side and Ginny put an arm around her.

"Did you have a dream too?" Claire asked.

"What do you mean?" Ginny questioned.

"Today is the day they let us out of Azkaban," Claire said. "I had a dream that Voldemort won instead and we had to stay there forever." Hermione saw Ginny tighten her arm around the girl. Claire yawned. "I'm glad Harry won and that didn't happen."

"Me too," Ginny said quietly. Ginny turned to Hermione and squeezed her hand. Hermione smiled and the three of them sat quietly together until the sun fully rose.

Remus and Andromeda walked through the gates of Hogwarts surrounded by other witches and wizards. The crowds had grown quite large already and the ceremony wasn't starting for another twenty minutes. Remus carried Teddy, who snuggled close to his father as they moved through the cluster of people. He had become a bit wary of strangers as of late, something Andromeda assured Remus was quite normal.

It was one of the reasons they had brought Teddy with them. Narcissa had volunteered to mind him, as she wasn't attending the ceremony out of respect for those on the Light side that would have resented her being there. But Teddy had only seen her once since his birthday. Remus was concerned that his son would be too upset.

Mostly, though, Remus had simply wanted his boy with him when they honored Dora and the rest of the fallen. They would pay tribute to everyone that had died in both the first and the second wars today and it was important to Remus that Teddy be here, regardless of the fact that he wouldn't remember it.

Aurors ringed the space on the grounds where everyone had gathered. Remus saw Harry, as well as Ron and Neville, keeping an eye on the crowd. Kingsley stood near the dais speaking with Minerva and it didn't take long for Remus to find the Weasleys, most already seated. Molly waved them over and he and Andromeda joined them.

Not long after they arrived, the students were led from the castle to rows of chairs that had been set aside for them, much like they had at Albus' funeral. Remus nodded at many of those he had been tutoring over the course of the year, although those sessions were few and far between these days. He expected to be a bit busier in a month's time before exams began, but for now, he was only coming to the castle once a week, if that.

He caught Hermione's eye as she walked past, and she gave him a small smile. He continued to watch her as she moved down the row of chairs, followed by the Muggle-born first years and Ginny. Hermione settled Claire and Annie on either side of her and Remus noticed Claire lean against Hermione and take her hand once they were seated. Hermione smiled at her before making sure that Annie and then David were settled as well. It wasn't until Teddy squirmed in his lap that Remus dropped his gaze.

Remus shook his head as if to clear it and Andromeda gave him a quizzical look. Remus gave her a reassuring smile and returned his attention to his son who had begun to reach for the bag that sat on the ground between Remus and Andromeda. Remus pulled out one of his dragons, which were never far from Teddy's side these days, and gave it to him.

When everyone had finally settled, Kingsley stepped onto the dais and the memorial began.

Hermione wiped at her eyes again as Harry finished speaking. He hadn't wanted to give a speech today, had protested vehemently to Kingsley about it, according to Ginny. But in the end, the Minister had convinced him. His speech had been short, mostly about the contributions of others, rather than his own, which didn't surprise Hermione at all. It had also only added to the emotionality of the day and there weren't many dry eyes in the crowd anymore.

"We will now have a moment of silence for the fallen," Kingsley said as he stepped back to the podium. Those in attendance, who had already been quiet, fell completely silent. Hermione tightened her arm around Claire and squeezed Annie's hand. She could see Ginny putting a hand on David's shoulder and the boy leaned into her slightly. The silence was only broken by the call of birds in the forest.

Kingsley cleared his throat and Hermione looked up towards the dais. Professor McGonagall stood and moved to the back of the dais. She waved her wand in a series of patterns that Hermione had never seen before. Moments later, a large white marble monument appeared, obviously having been Disillusioned before the ceremony.

The Headmistress joined the Minister at the front of the dais and Professor Flitwick handed them a scroll of parchment.

"We will now read the names of those who gave their lives in the fight against Voldemort and his Death Eaters."

As Kingsley read a name, it etched itself on the side of the monument. Hermione marveled at the magic which could still take her breath away from time to time. The first-years beside her looked absolutely enthralled.

As James and Lily Potter's names were read, Hermione and Ginny looked towards Harry. He stood stoically next to the platform, hands clasped behind his back, but Hermione could see the emotion on his face.

The list continued, Professor McGonagall taking over the reading of the names as Kingsley stepped back to take a sip of water. When they reached Bertha Jorkins, Hermione knew they had moved from the first war to the second. She watched Harry closely as first Cedric's name was read and then Sirius'. Harry bowed his head slightly. Hermione glanced at Remus and saw that his jaw was tight until Andromeda put a hand on his shoulder.

"Elizabeth and Patrick Harrison," Kingsley said a few minutes later. Annie gasped and gripped Hermione's hand harder. David looked at Annie wide-eyed. Ginny and Hermione's eyes met over the children's heads. Neither of them had known that the Muggle-borns' parents would be included.

"Margaret Campbell." David let out a low whine, closing his eyes and leaning into Ginny. Ginny wrapped an arm around him and Hermione reached around Annie and put a hand on his shoulder. The sniffles and throat clearing in the crowd grew a bit louder the more names that were read. When they reached Ted Tonks, Hermione looked at Remus again. He had an arm around Andromeda's shoulders and Hermione could see the older woman bow her head.

"Fred Weasley." Ginny hitched in a breath and Hermione didn't even try to stop the tears that were running down her own cheeks.

"Nymphadora Lupin." Remus' head bowed, kissing the top of Teddy's head, who looked at his father and grandmother, concern on his little face.

"Lavender Brown." Hermione wiped a few tears from her face.

"Colin Creevey." Hermione located Dennis down the row. His hands were fisted and resting on his knees. Cassandra, one of the girls in his year, took hold of his arm and gave it a squeeze

"Severus Snape." There was a small hush over the crowd and a few mutters began. Hermione knew that there were still people that thought Professor Snape was nothing but a Death Eater that had killed Dumbledore. Kingsley's glare at someone in the crowd silenced the protests.

As the list was finished, the last name etched itself into the side of the monument.

"Let us always remember those who suffered and died, so that an evil like this can never rise to power again. Thank you all for coming."

Kingsley, and the rest of those that had been on the dais, stepped down to the ground. The platform was shrunk and moved away from the monument, allowing those in attendance to step closer to it. Hermione looked around the crowd and saw Harry approaching. When he reached them, he drew Ginny into his arms and hugged her tightly, closing his eyes and burying his face in her hair. Ginny clung to him, her hands fisted in his robes at his back, her shoulders shaking slightly as she cried.

Hermione ran a hand over the top of Annie's head, feeling an uncharacteristic spike of jealousy as she watched Harry and Ginny. Sighing, she looked down at Annie and then at David.

"Do the two of you want a closer look at the memorial?" David immediately shook his head, almost violently, until Hermione squeezed his shoulder. Annie looked unsure. "It's all right if you don't want to right now, Annie. It will always be here."

"Will you go with me?" Annie whispered.

"Of course," Hermione said. She looked to Harry and Ginny who had finally pulled apart from one another. "I'm going to take Annie up to the monument."

"We should find Mum and Dad," Ginny said to Harry. Hermione glanced at David in concern. He had sat back down in his chair and Claire had come to sit beside him. She held his hand and leaned a head on his shoulder, but he looked stricken. Harry caught Hermione's eye and nodded.

"Gin, you go ahead," Harry said. "I'll be there in a bit, yeah?" He sat down next to David. Ginny smiled.

"All right," she said, then turned and made her way towards her family. Hermione took Annie's hand and led her towards the memorial.

Remus finally approached the large memorial, searching for Dora's name. When he found it, he ran his fingers over it lightly, feeling the tug of grief once again. Andromeda stood back a few feet with Teddy, having already spent her time in front of Ted's and Dora's names. Hearing a familiar voice, Remus turned around and saw Hermione leading one of the Muggle-born first years towards him.

"Hello, Remus," she said, a look of sadness on her face.

"Hermione," he replied.

"Annie wanted to find her parents' names," Hermione explained. Remus nodded in understanding.

"Your last name is Harrison, isn't it?" he asked. Annie nodded. Remus remembered the two names being read, just a bit before Ted's. He looked up at the monument and finally saw them, Elizabeth and Patrick Harrison.

"They're just there," he said pointing upwards. Annie looked up at stared at the two names. Remus could see her mouth trembling and Hermione put an arm around her. Annie stepped forward and reached up but wasn't quite able to touch them.

"Here, let me help," Remus said and conjured a small stool. He held Annie's arm as she stepped up onto the stool and ran her finger across her mother's name and then her father's. Remus saw the tears begin to roll down her cheeks and soon she was crying in earnest. He gently lifted her down from the stool, expecting her to go to Hermione, but to his surprise, she wrapped her arms around his waist and sobbed.

"It's all right," Remus said quietly, rubbing the girl's back. He looked at Hermione who was quickly wiping away the tears that ran down her own face. Keeping one hand on Annie's back, he reached the other out to Hermione. She took it and gave him a grateful squeeze.

"Hermione?" a voice said and Hermione looked behind her, dropping Remus' hand a moment later.

"Anthony," she said, smiling at him.

"Professor Lupin," Anthony said in surprise as he realized who Remus was.

"Mr. Goldstein," Remus replied, not even bothering to correct him about the moniker. Most of the older students still called him professor, even though he hadn't been one for five years. Annie's sobs had finally slowed down and she pulled away from Remus, her face red.

"Sorry," she whispered.

"It's quite all right," Remus replied with a smile.

"Did you lose someone too?" Annie asked in a small voice, looking up at him.

"Yes," he said, throat tight. "My wife and my father-in-law." Annie nodded.

"I didn't know they were going to let Muggles be on the memorial," Annie said. "But I'm glad they did. Now I can come here whenever I want." Remus smiled at her and looked towards Hermione. Anthony had his hand on the small of her back and she was leaning into him. Remus stared at the two of them.

"Hermione, can we go back to David and Claire?" Annie asked, looking apprehensively at the large crowd of people she would have to make her way through to find her friends.

"Of course," Hermione said. "You don't mind if Anthony comes with us, do you?" Annie shook her head. Hermione took a few steps towards Remus. "I'm so sorry."

"Thank you, Hermione," Remus said, his voice tight. Her brow furrowed at his tone, but she must have decided it was due to his grief, for she smiled and then hugged him a moment later. He let his arms come around her for a few seconds before letting go and taking a step back. He watched, eyes narrowed, as Anthony took Hermione's hand and began to lead her and Annie back through the crowd.

"Remus, are you ready to go?" Andromeda asked as she stepped up beside him. Remus startled as he looked down at her, Teddy smiling up at him. Andromeda frowned. "Are you all right?"

"I'm fine," Remus said, glancing back to follow Hermione and Anthony's progress. When he noticed Andromeda trying to determine what he was looking at, he dropped his eyes to his son, running a hand over Teddy's head, his hair brown today.

"Shall we make our good-byes?" he asked his mother-in-law. She was still searching the crowd, obviously wondering what had captured Remus' attention. She finally looked back at Remus.

"Yes, I think Teddy is ready for his lunch." They had kept him plied with small snacks throughout the ceremony to keep him quiet, but Remus knew they should feed him a proper meal.

"Remus," Harry said as he walked up. "Hey, Teddy." Teddy grinned widely and reached for his godfather. Harry was happy to oblige the toddler.

"Have you had a look at the memorial?" Remus asked. Harry looked up at him.

"Not yet," he said. Remus studied the boy, no man, before him. He looked so much like James, but the way he carried himself, the way he smiled, that was Lily, not to mention the eyes. It physically hurt sometimes to look at Harry and see two of his best friends staring back at him. But it was also a gift that Remus would forever be grateful for. He had the same thing in Teddy.

"You should," Remus said, putting a hand on Harry's shoulder. Harry nodded and Teddy looked at Harry so solemnly that Remus couldn't help but chuckle. "You see, even Teddy agrees." Teddy grinned a second later, making Harry laugh as well.

"Maybe I will," Harry said, with a small smile.

"Maybe you will what?" Ginny asked as she came up beside them. She tickled Teddy and made him laugh. His hair immediately turned red.

"Have a look at the memorial," Harry said. Ginny looked at him and wrapped a hand around his arm.

"We can go together." Harry gave her a soft smile and nodded, before he handed Teddy back to Remus.

"She is good for him," Andromeda said as Ginny led Harry towards the monument.

"She is," Remus agreed, even as his gaze returned to the place he had last seen Hermione.

22 May 1999

"Harry!" Hermione said with a smile as she and Anthony neared the pitch. Harry grinned back and hugged her. "I'm glad you made it." Harry said hello to Anthony.

"I wouldn't miss the last Quidditch match," Harry said with a secretive grin. Hermione's eyes narrowed.

"I know that look, what are you up to?" she demanded. Harry looked around, then pulled Hermione and Anthony off the path and cast a Muffliato around them.

"Gwenog Jones might be here," he said, smug grin on his face. Hermione's mouth dropped open.

"Whoa," Anthony whispered. Even the non-avid Quidditch fan knew who Gwenog Jones was.

"She's scouting Ginny?" Hermione asked. Harry nodded with a grin. "How in Merlin's name did you manage that?" Anthony looked impressed.

"I talked to Oliver first," Harry explained. "But he told me that Puddlemere wasn't looking for anyone, even their reserve team is full. He said he thought the Harpies were looking though and I should talk to Gwenog."

"So, what, you just sent Gwenog Jones an owl?" Hermione asked. Harry's grin slid off his face.

"I talked to Slughorn," he muttered. "He put me in touch with her." Hermione bit her lip to keep from laughing.

"And what did you have to give him in exchange?" she asked. Harry sighed.

"I promised I'd go to his next Slug Club party as his 'special guest'." Hermione laughed.

"You know that's right after N.E.W.T.S.?"

"Yes," Harry groused. He brightened a moment later. "It's worth it though." Hermione just smiled at him. "What?"

"You don't even realize how wonderful you are, do you Harry Potter?" Harry shrugged, looking uncomfortable. He dropped the privacy charm.

"C'mon, let's go get seats."

"I still can't believe this is the last Quidditch match we'll watch here," Hermione said once they sat down. Gryffindor was playing Hufflepuff, so Anthony felt no disloyalty sitting with the Gryffindors.

"Speak for yourself, Hermione," Harry said. "I fully intend to have a kid playing out there someday."

"With the way you and Ginny throw yourselves about on a broom, I fear for your child's safety." Harry tried to look affronted, but Hermione could see the happiness in his eyes. Of course, everyone knew that Harry and Ginny were going to get married and have a bunch of Quidditch-mad children. Just because no one had said it out loud yet, didn't mean it wasn't true. Harry bumped her with his shoulder. She grinned back at him.

"Hopefully, this match isn't as nerve-wracking as your first one," Hermione said.

"What, catching the snitch in my mouth made you nervous?" Harry joked. Anthony laughed.

"I remember that. It was brilliant," Anthony said. Hermione rolled her eyes.

"Well, yes, but I was referring to the fact that your broom was jinxed and you nearly plummeted to your death."

"At least I didn't set a professor on fire," Harry retorted. Hermione glared at him.

"Who set a professor on fire?" Anthony asked in confusion.

"Hermione set Snape's robes on fire," Harry said with a grin. Anthony looked horrified.

"You set Professor Snape on fire?" he asked.

"Well, I thought he was jinxing Harry's broom," Hermione said.

"So, you set him on fire?" Anthony said incredulously. Hermione huffed.

"It wasn't an Incendio or anything," Hermione said defensively. "It wouldn't have actually hurt him. I just wanted to break his concentration."

"I can't believe you did that," Anthony said, shaking his head.

"Well, I was trying to save Harry's life, wasn't I?" Hermione said. She was getting a bit irritated that Anthony was making such a big deal out of it.

"Of course, it wasn't even Snape that was doing it," Harry said, laughing. "He was actually trying to save me." If it was possible, Anthony looked even more appalled. Hermione's eyes narrowed at Harry, who hadn't stopped laughing.

"We didn't know that at the time," Hermione said through gritted teeth. She glanced at Anthony, who was looking at her like he didn't even know who she was. She rolled her eyes again. If he was this shocked, he had better never hear the story about the Polyjuice potion.

"Thank you, Harry, for that lovely trip down memory lane," Hermione said. Harry snickered. Before she could say anything else, the teams walked onto the pitch and the match began.

Anthony was quiet through the first three goals. Hermione wasn't sure why he was so affected by this. It had happened nearly eight years ago and it wasn't as if anyone got hurt. It had no bearing on their relationship at all. She finally reached over and took his hand. He stared at her for a moment before he smiled and kissed her cheek. Hermione relaxed and focused on the game, hoping Ginny did well.

Hermione walked with Anthony up to the castle. Gryffindor had flattened Hufflepuff 370 to 50. Ginny had scored twelve of the teams twenty-two goals. Harry was waiting for her outside the changing rooms, having seen Gwenog Jones go inside.

Hermione glanced at Anthony from the corner of her eye. While he had perked up a bit at the match, he was still quieter than usual. She was unsure exactly what was going on, but sincerely hoped it had nothing to do with Harry's revelation at the game.

"Do you want to join me for the celebration?" she asked, knowing that the party would be in full-swing in the Gryffindor Common Room as they'd also clinched the Quidditch Cup with their win.

"No, I think I'm going to head to the library for a bit," he said. They reached the Entrance Hall and Hermione tugged lightly on his hand, pulling him towards a small alcove.

"Is everything all right?" she asked.

"Of course," Anthony replied. "Why?"

"You've just been rather quiet," Hermione replied. She looked down at the floor and then back at him. "It's not about what Harry said, is it?"

"Well, it was a bit disconcerting to find out that my girlfriend once set one of our professors on fire, I'll admit."

"I was twelve," Hermione reminded him. He smiled.

"I know," he said, rubbing his thumb over the back of her hand. "No other misdeeds you want to confess to, are there?" Hermione tried to keep the smile on her face, but she knew it looked forced.

"Did you set someone else on fire?" he joked.

"No," she replied.

"But there were other misdeeds?"

"I was best friends with Harry and Ron," she said. "I thought everyone knew what we got up to."

"Harry, yes, even Ron a bit, but I guess I always thought you were the voice of reason in that trio."

"I was, most of the time," she admitted.

"But not all the time," he said.

"I don't think anyone could rein in Harry and Ron all the time," she laughed. He smiled. "Is this…a problem for you?"

"No, of course not," he said, but too quickly in Hermione's opinion.

"Really?" she pressed. Anthony smiled again.

"Really." He leaned forward and pressed a kiss to her forehead. "I should really get to the library and you have a party to go to."

"Hermione!" Ginny squealed as she and Harry came into the Common room. She ignored the cheers from the rest of their housemates and threw her arms around Hermione. If Dean hadn't been standing next to Hermione and grabbed her, the two women would have toppled to the floor.

"What's going on?" Hermione asked with a laugh.

"I've got a try-out with the Harpies!" Ginny exclaimed. Hermione grinned widely.

"Congratulations!"

"Wow, how did that happen?" Dean asked. "Congratulations, by the way."

"Thanks," Ginny replied, excitement radiating from her. "Gwenog Jones was at the match today and she came and spoke to me afterwards."

"Gwenog Jones was here?" Dean said in surprise. Ginny nodded.

"Harry got her here. He used his Chosen One status to get her to meet with him," Ginny said, turning and glaring slightly at Harry. Hermione could see the fondness in her eyes though. Harry, however, looked a little nervous.

"I swear, Gin, she came to see you, not because I'm, well, me. I didn't even sit with her at the match." Ginny crossed her arms over her chest and tried to look annoyed, but she couldn't hold back her smile. Harry relaxed and put an arm around her waist, kissing her temple.

"Good on you, mate," Dean said, slapping Harry on the shoulder.

"When's the try-out?" Hermione asked.

"Right after N.E.W.T.S.," Ginny said. "I'm so excited, I can't stand it." She turned to Harry, grabbed him by the front of his robes and pulled him towards her, snogging him thoroughly. Both ignored the cat-calls and whistles that began moments later and Hermione wasn't sure if they were ever going to come up for air.

"All right, you two, children in the room," she finally said. Harry pulled away from Ginny, love shining in his eyes.

"No one deserves it more than you do," he said quietly, resting his forehead against hers. Ginny closed her eyes and gripped his robes again. Hermione edged around the two of them, pulling Dean with her and forcing Harry and Ginny back into their own shadowy corner where Harry could whisper all the endearments he wanted without anyone overhearing them.

"It doesn't bother you, does it?" Hermione asked.

"Ginny and Harry?" Dean clarified and Hermione nodded. "Maybe back in sixth year, right at first. But no, not anymore. You'd have to be completely daft to not see how much he loves her. Her too."

They stood in companionable silence for a while, surveying the party going on.

"Kind of strange, isn't it?" Dean finally said. "That it's almost over?"

"Yes," Hermione agreed. She looked back at him. "Are you glad you came back this year?"

"Honestly, it was weird," Dean said. "I really tried to convince Seamus to come back too, but after everything that happened last year, he just, he couldn't."

"I've heard that from a few other people too," Hermione said. It was why Parvati hadn't returned, she knew.

"Anyway, the blokes in my dorm are great, but they're not," Dean trailed off.

"Your mates?" Hermione prompted.

"Yeah," Dean agreed. "I almost didn't come back after Christmas. My mum was the one that convinced me. School's always been important to her." Hermione nodded.

"It is strange," she agreed. "I'm glad I came back, but I'm really ready to leave now. I think if I hadn't returned it would have always felt…unfinished somehow. Even if I had taken my N.E.W.T.S." Dean nodded as if he understood. Hermione saw Ginny and Harry slip away and out of the Common room, headed for somewhere a bit more private she assumed. Smiling, Hermione briefly thought about joining Anthony in the library, but ultimately decided if this was the last Hogwarts Quidditch Cup party she would attend, she might as well enjoy it.