A/N: Alright everyone, I think I've got it. I wrote both this last episode and an After the Final Rose epilogue, and I'm dropping them at the same time because I feel like it's the only way! I know I'm not going to satisfy everyone, but what can you do. Hope you enjoy reading as much as I've enjoyed writing!

Hermione arrived at her parents' house in a suburb of London. Mrs. Granger opened the door and rushed out to greet her before Hermione could get onto the front porch.

"HERMIONE!" her mom cried, then kissed her on both cheeks. "Oh, my dear, you get lovelier each time I see you!"

"Thanks, Mum!" Hermione said, embracing her warmly. "I take it Dad is dusting the house for the 5th time?"

"Oh yes," said Mrs. Granger. "You know how he is, and it's been worse with him knowing there will be cameras! So, come in, and tell us all about these two gentlemen!"

Hermione nodded, picked up Crookshanks' pet carrier, and entered her childhood home. Mr. Granger was skimming the corners where the walls and ceiling met with an extendable duster.

"Hello, dear!" Mr. Granger exclaimed, then sneezed. "Oh, Crookshanks is here!"

Hermione reached into her bag and pulled out a potion. "Here, Dad, for the allergy."

Mr. Granger swallowed the potion happily. "Where are the cameras? Where's the first bloke? Oh no, honey, did something happen?"

"No, Dad!" Hermione laughed. "No cameras right now. Just us."

"Hermione is going to prepare us for what's to come...tomorrow, right?" Mrs. Granger asked.

"Yes," said Hermione, sitting down on the lumpy old couch. The house was filled with pictures of Hermione from various stages of her life, framed certificates from muggle Elementary school and Ravenclaw, even a copy of her Auror license. Hermione suddenly became very nervous. She was their only child. They accepted no less than the best for their little girl. Hermione was pretty sure Harry and Neville were no less than the best, but what would her parents say?

Mrs. Granger bade her husband stop cleaning and poured them all some coffee. Crookshanks took his place on Hermione's lap. "So tomorrow you're meeting Harry," Hermione began.

"Harry, why does that name sound familiar?" asked Mrs. Granger.

"Oh, it's a very common name," said Mr. Granger.

Hermione laughed uncomfortably. "Remember when we had to take a month off the show because of a dark wizard attack? Harry was the one who was attacked."

"OH!" Mrs. and Mr. Granger said together.

"That's a good match, isn't it? An Auror and and Auror," said Mrs. Granger. "Who's the other bloke?"

"His name is Neville Longbottom," said Hermione.

"Longbottom," said Mr. Granger with a grin. "Now that's a name."

"They're a very old and respected wizarding family," said Hermione. "And Neville is a botanist."

"A botanist?" they asked in surprise.

"A magic botanist. There are magic plants, you know," said Hermione.

"Huh," said Mr. Granger. "Well, that sounds much safer."

"Not always," said Hermione. "Magic plants can be very deadly. So yeah. That's my final two."

"So, honey," said Mrs. Granger, "how are you feeling about all of this?"

"I feel very good, actually," said Hermione. "Both of them have said that they love me."

Their eyes bulged out in awe. "Well, that's very good," said Mr. Granger.

"And how do you feel?" asked Mrs. Granger.

"If I'm being honest," said Hermione. "I feel like I could be happy with either of them. We've been on fantastic dates, and they both seem to get me."

"Well, that's good," said Mr. Granger, nodding his head in approval.

"Are you in love, sweetie?" asked Mrs. Granger.

Hermione took a deep breath. "Yes," she said. "I am in love."

Since the Grangers lived in a more highly populated muggle neighborhood, Harry had to take the Knight Bus to their house. He brought with him a crudely-wrapped gift in gold paper with a crimson bow.

Hermione opened the door to him. "Hello, Harry!" she exclaimed, throwing her arms around him.

"Hello," he said, kissing her. "So, how are things in there?"

"Well, my dad has been cleaning obsessively since he heard you were coming, so, normal," said Hermione. "Come on in! They're dying to meet you."

She lead Harry inside. Mr. and Mrs. Granger were standing side by side in the foyer with big plastic smiles. "Hello!" they said together.

"Hello," said Harry. "I'm Harry Potter. I brought you a gift."

"Ohhh, lovely!" Mrs. Granger said, accepting it. "Come on in, Harry. Hermione told us how much you liked pizza, so, we ordered in our favorites."

Harry's smile doubled in size. "Oh, all right! Thank you!"

They sat down at the dinner table where two large pizzas were sitting on pedestals, surrounded by breadsticks and dipping sauces. There was also a bowl of salad.

Mr. and Mrs. Granger placed the gift between them on the table. "Hmm, this is an odd shape," said Mr. Granger. They removed the wrapping paper. "Ohhhh! It's a...?"

"Sneakoscope," said Harry. "Do you already have one? I thought Hermione might have given you one already. But this is the latest model! This is the kind the Order uses."

"No, I can't say I know what this is," said Mr. Granger.

Harry looked at Hermione in relief. "So, it's a device that alerts you to dark magic. Or dark anything, really. Like, if someone is trying to break in, or, if that telephone call is a scam artist."

Mr. Granger laughed. "Oh, that is delightful! It's a magic security system."

"Well, it won't actually protect you from anything, it just lets you know that something is wrong," said Harry. "So you call the muggle police or something."

The phone rang, and the Sneakoscope started to spin and flash. Mr. Granger clapped. "Don't get that phone, honey!" he laughed.

"To be clear, Harry, I do have protective spells all over this neighborhood," said Hermione.

"I figured, but, you know, if we're going to be together...," Harry whispered.

"What? Oh," said Hermione. "Right."

"What?" Mrs. Granger asked. "If we're going to be together, what?"

"Oh, let's not discuss this now," said Hermione.

"No, let's get it out of the way," said Harry. "Mr. and Mrs. Granger, I love your daughter."

"Awww," they said together.

"Hermione has already accepted that being with me is dangerous," said Harry.

"Yes, of course," said Mrs. Granger. "She has explained the situation to us too."

"I figured," said Harry, "but I just want to reiterate. Being me is dangerous. Being with me is dangerous. Knowing me is dangerous. If Hermione and I marry, then you two might also be targeted."

Mr. and Mrs. Granger looked at each other. "Oh," said Mr. Granger. "I...we didn't really think about that."

"No, most people don't," said Harry. "But it is something you need to think about."

"Hermione, why didn't you mention this before?" asked Mrs. Granger.

"Because," said Hermione, "at the time, there were so many guys left, that I didn't know we'd get here."

They all sat in silence for a while. Mr. Granger said, "Well, the pizza is getting cold!"

"Oh, of course, let's eat, and...let's get to know Harry better! So, Harry, you are a wizard?" Mrs. Granger asked.

Hermione dropped her head into her hands.

Harry laughed. "Yes, but I didn't know I was a wizard until I turned 11. The Order decided to place me with my muggle relatives until the fuss died down after You-Know-Who disappeared. The fuss never really did die down, unfortunately...and then I got my Gryffindor acceptance letter."

"Gryffindor," said Mr. Granger. "That's the one where all the brave kids go, right?"

"Yeah, more or less," said Harry. "That's simplifying things, of course. The Headmasters actually all get together and bargain for us. It's weird."

"I always thought Hermione could have been a Gryffindor too," said Mrs. Granger. "Ravenclaw was of course an obvious choice."

"Yeah, exactly," said Harry. "Hermione is very brave and adventurous. Ravenclaw just snatches up the top IQ's regardless of anything else."

"Which makes no sense, now that I've gotten to know you guys so well," said Hermione. "You are wicked smart, Harry."

Harry blushed. "I'm quite different from when I was 11," said Harry, "and I'm really only smart in a few things. You're smart in...everything."

"But that's a problem too! When you know about everything, it's really hard to figure out what you're supposed to do!"

"Oh, what a terrible problem!" Harry teased.

"And I'm not smart in everything. I still don't know jack about sports," said Hermione.

Harry chortled. "Oh, goodness, that's right! Ravenclaw Quidditch team was always awful."

"Some years we didn't even have one," said Hermione. "I don't think. I don't really know. Cho dragged me to the games sometimes, but I never really paid attention."

"Quidditch. Now there's a sport!" Mr. Granger exclaimed.

Harry reached for a breadstick and alfredo sauce. "You like Quidditch, Mr. Granger?"

"I love Quidditch! When I get the opportunity to watch, you know, which isn't much. You know who I love? That Bulgarian seeker. What's his name? Crumbly?"

"Viktor Krum," Hermione groaned.

"He is amazing," said Harry. "Well, I was seeker for the Gryffindor team."

"Were you now? Well, how about that?" Mr. Granger beamed and turned to Mrs. Granger. "We could have a seeker in the family." Mrs. Granger patted her husband on the hand.

"If Hermione picks me, Mr. Granger, I promise to take you to a game."

"Are you bribing my dad?!" Hermione said with a half-full mouth.

"No, I'm just being nice!" said Harry. "If being nice makes him like me more, that's just a perk."

Mrs. Granger laughed. "Oh, I see how you guys get on! Hermione always needed someone who could challenge her. That's been her problem with men. So hard to find someone who could keep up with her."

"Well, that and she's been a bit of a hard egg to crack," said Mr. Granger. "I am so curious to see how she got on with all of these men."

"Ew, Dad, stop," said Hermione.

"So, Harry, I'm guessing you had a lot of girlfriends in school," said Mrs. Granger.

Hermione gave her mum a strange look. Harry took it in stride. "No," he said. "I was pretty awkward around girls all through school."

"Oh, so you haven't dated much," said Mrs. Granger.

"Well, I wouldn't say that," said Harry. "Just not much long-term."

"Sounds like Hermione," said Mr. Granger. "You two have a lot in common."

"And what makes you want to get married?" asked Mrs. Granger.

"Honestly," said Harry, "I'm rather bored and lonely. I get home from work, and, it's just my owl there waiting for me. It would be nice to have more to live for, you know?"

Mrs. Granger smiled and nodded.

After dinner, Mr. Granger took Harry aside, and Mrs. Granger took her daughter aside.

Mrs. Granger and Hermione sat in Hermione's childhood bedroom. Her bookshelf was still there, though it had more knick-knacks on it than books now. What used to be pictures of famous witches and wizards were now pictures of English landscapes.

"Well, Hermione, I definitely see why you're attracted to Harry," said Mrs. Granger. "He's quite charming. Smart, friendly, and I can tell he cares about you a great deal. And you seem to compliment each other very much. You're different enough and similar enough. I could see you being very happy together. But..." Hermione gulped. "But there is that little matter of his...what should I call it?"

"The fact that he's enemy number one to dark wizards?" Hermione asked.

"I know you're an Auror, and he's an Auror, but there's a big difference between doing something at work and doing it in your spare time."

Hermione couldn't help but to giggle slightly. "You act like Harry and I are going to go hunting Death Eaters every night for fun."

"And you're smiling right now because you do think that would be fun," said Mrs. Granger.

"Damn," Hermione whispered under her breath. Then, out loud, "You're right. Harry and I spent half of our last one-on-one deprogramming the Floo."

Mrs. Granger laughed softly and dropped her head into her hands. "Oh, dear lord, what would we do with you two?"

"Okay, so, I guess that's a legit concern," said Hermione. "But you do admit we'd be happy together."

"Yes, and I would be worried sick about you all the time! I mean, Harry is painfully aware of it. He gave us that Sneakoscope because he is worried, and I guess I'm glad he's worried, because it shows he cares, but wow. It would be a burden."

"I know," said Hermione. "He asked me multiple times if I wanted him to leave. But I didn't, of course. He's..." Hermione started to tear up. "It's just not fair, you know? He deserves a normal life. I'd like to give that to him."

Mrs. Granger embraced her daughter. "I don't think you can, sweetie. But, I think he does very well, all things considered. This is not what worries me most about him. I know you can handle the dark wizard stuff. It's..."

"Wait," said Hermione, wiping her tears away. "How is that not the biggest concern?"

"You both are obviously great wizards. You'll take whatever comes at you. What concerns me as a human is that he might not be ready for marriage."

"What?! What does that even mean?"

"Frankly, I'm not sure either of you are ready," said Mrs. Granger. "Neither of you have much relationship practice."

"Ummm, I just dated 25 guys at once," said Hermione.

"Okay, yes, but, you know the show is a very ideal situation," said Mrs. Granger. "You and your guys haven't been through much adversity together."

"Uhhh...we got attacked..."

"No, not that kind of adversity," said Mrs. Granger. "I know you can handle that. I mean normal stuff, like, finances, and, cooking dinner."

"Money and dinner," said Hermione. "This is what you think is going to do us in."

"That's the kind of stuff that does most couples in, I'm afraid," said Mrs. Granger. "I'm not saying I'm against the boy. He's lovely. Just promise me that if you get engaged, it'll be a long engagement."

"Of course," said Hermione.

Harry and Mr. Granger sat on the porch with Old Fashioneds.

"We call these Old Merlins in the wizard world," said Harry.

Mr. Granger threw his head back and laughed. "I love wizards!" he said. "So, Harry, you think you can marry Hermione?"

"Uh," said Harry. "I mean, if she picks me, then yeah, I hope I can. I actually wanted to ask you that very question. If Hermione decides I'm the one, then, do I have your blessing to marry her?"

Mr. Granger took a long sip of his Old Fashioned. "I might have to think about that for a bit."

"Oh," said Harry, taking an even bigger sip of his Old Merlin.

"Ahhhh, I'm just messing with you, boy. Of course you can!" Mr. Granger said.

Harry choked on his drink. "That's diabolical!" said Harry.

"Too mean?"

"Yeah!"

"So I probably shouldn't do it to the other guy?"

Harry grinned. "Oh, no, you gotta do it to the other guy! Then tell me how it went later, haha!"

"Oh, boy, you are confident! But let's talk about marriage. Mrs. Granger and I have been married for thirty-three years," Mr. Granger said.

"Wow," said Harry, because of course no matter what number someone throws out there, you have to act surprised.

"And I'll tell you what, Harry," said Mr. Granger, "women are not owls."

Harry tried really hard not to laugh at the statement. "No," he said, "I suppose not."

"A wife is not a thing that you put in your home because you think it's cute," said Mr. Granger. "She truly becomes the other half of you. When she hurts, you hurt. When she celebrates, you celebrate. And there will be times when you disagree. Have you ever disagreed with Hermione?"

"No," Harry said.

Mr. Granger laughed darkly. "Oh, boy, you don't know what you're in for," he said.

"I imagine that would be unsettling," said Harry.

"You have no idea," said Mr. Granger. "Hell hath no fury." He took a long sip and finished his drink. "Well, I wonder if the girls are done talking."

"Probably not," said Harry.

"Haaa!" Mr. Granger said, pointing to Harry. "Nice one!"

They played Bananagrams to the end of the the night. Harry learned where Hermione got her superior vocabulary from, and felt very stupid, but had a great time nonetheless. When it was time to go, they all gathered in the foyer.

"Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Granger, for a lovely night," Harry said in his most mature manner possible.

"And thank you, Harry!" Mrs. Granger said warmly. She hugged him, and Mr. Granger shook his hand.

Hermione lead Harry outside where the Knight Bus was waiting. "Well, that went very well," said Harry.

"Good," said Hermione. "I'm glad you think so."

"Wait...think so? Am I wrong? Am I missing something?" asked Harry.

"No," said Hermione. "It did go well. They really like you."

"Good," said Harry. "Well, I can't wait until our next date. And hopefully..." Hermione didn't say anything, but she kissed him passionately. "I love you," he said before departing.

Mr. and Mrs. Granger laid down to sleep. "That went really well today," she said. "I like Harry."

"Oh yeah," said Mr. Granger. "He's a great kid. Makes me wonder who this other kid is. Sounds like Hermione is having a really tough time deciding."

"Yeah," said Mrs. Granger, "and she doesn't have long to make up her mind. But I was thinking. Let's spice things up a bit for this next one."

"Spice things up? Like how? Are we having tacos?" Mr. Granger asked.

"No, I was just thinking, is Bananagrams the best we have?"

"But we love Bananagrams!"

"I know! But let's make it a little more...TV worthy."

The Knight Bus brought Neville to the Grangers' doorstep. Hermione rushed outside to meet him. They hugged and kissed. Neville balanced a potted plant in one hand.

"Are you ready to meet my parents?" Hermione asked.

"Sure," said Neville. "No pressure."

"Okay," she said, and she lead him inside.

Mr. and Mrs. Granger were standing in the same position they had been when Harry arrived. "Hello!" they said together.

"Hello!" repeated Neville. "I brought you a plant!"

"Oh, it's lovely!" Mrs. Granger said, accepting it. "Welcome, welcome!"

"It's dittany," said Neville. "It cures wounds. Mild ones. Not like, if you break your arm or sever a limb or something..."

Mr. Granger laughed. "Well, thank you, m'boy! Are you hungry?"

Neville was too nervous to be hungry, but he knew the proper response was "yeah," so he went with that.

"We made a roast," said Mrs. Granger. "And baked beans, and baked potatoes. And I have a bread pudding in the oven."

"Sounds delicious, thank you," said Neville.

They moved into the kitchen and sat around the table. Crookshanks rubbed his face against Neville's legs.

"Oh, look at that!" Mr. Granger commented. "Crookshanks went right to him!"

"That's odd," said Mrs. Granger. "He pretends I don't exist."

"Cats take to me for some odd reason," said Neville. "My Gran kept a cat for a while. Outdoors, 'where animals belong,' she often said. Every time I went outside, the thing followed me."

"Aw, that's sweet," said Hermione.

"Except I'm terribly allergic," said Neville.

"Oh, me too!" said Mr. Granger. "Does Hermione make that potion for you, too?"

"Well, I haven't been around Crookshanks long enough yet for it to be an issue. But I have actually been looking into some remedies, besides the potion. Not sure I want to spend the rest of my life taking potions. There's actually a charm I've looked into," said Neville.

"Oh? A charm that makes you not allergic to things? Amazing!" Mr. Granger exclaimed.

"Well, it actually doesn't work on me. I'd be charming the cat," said Neville.

"Ummm...no! You are not waving a wand at Crookshanks!" Hermione declared, picking Crookshanks up.

"Well, I wouldn't do it on Crookshanks first," said Neville.

"That doesn't make it better!"

"Not even a little?"

Mrs. Granger laughed nervously. "Well, that's definitely something you two would need to discuss later. Neville, Hermione tells us you are a magical botanist."

"Yes," said Neville. "I know it's kind of odd, and doesn't sound very exciting, but I love plants. There's just so much they can do."

"Now, I hear there are some dangerous ones," said Mr. Granger. "What exactly makes a plant dangerous?"

"Well, don't get me started!" Neville said happily.

"No, really, this could be a long conversation," said Hermione.

"The Bouncing Bulb can grow to as large as a doorway," said Neville, "and will attack if it feels threatened."

"Attack?" asked Mr. Granger.

"I've seen a particularly large one knock a bloke out," said Neville. "But you can usually see those coming. It's the Devil's Snare you've gotta watch out for. It's a vine that will wrap around you until you're suffocated."

"Goodness me! Where do these things grow?" asked Mr. Granger.

"Scotland, believe it or not," said Neville. "But don't worry. Muggles won't stumble upon it. We spend all our time keeping it from you."

"Really?" asked Mr. Granger. "That is fascinating! And sounds terribly more exciting than being a...muggle botanist."

"We're unsung heroes," Neville agreed.

"It never ceases to amaze me how much effort goes into hiding the wizarding world," said Mrs. Granger.

"It's mostly not too hard," said Neville. "Most things are out in plain sight, you just don't notice them because of enchantments and such."

"Hermione said the same thing! But she'll never actually show me something," said Mr. Granger.

"Because she can't. It's the rule," said Neville.

"So, this is fascinating, but I want to hear about the two of you," said Mrs. Granger. "What'd you decide to go on this show for?"

"Well, it's a long story, actually. My Gran has been bugging me for a long time that I needed to find someone. I'm sure it will come as a shock to you, but I really don't get out much apart from my botany expeditions." Neville paused here, but they didn't get the joke. He moved on, "And that's always with the same people. Most of them older than me. So, Gran watches the Bachelor, and she sent my name in. She wanted me to be The Bachelor. She was kinda unhappy when she found out I wasn't the Bachelor, but merely a bachelor. But then she met Hermione, and she fell in love with her like I did."

"Aww," said Mrs. Granger. The kitchen timer dinged, indicating the bread pudding was done.

"Oh, and we haven't even started eating dinner yet!" said Mr. Granger.

Neville picked up a roll. "Pass the butter?"

They laughed and ate together, then decided to take a break before dessert. Hermione and Mrs. Granger promptly went upstairs following dinner for their mother-daughter chat.

"Well, Hermione, I am torn," Mrs. Granger started.

"You're torn?" Hermione exclaimed.

"Okay, okay," said Mrs. Granger. "Oh, boy, well, they are different."

"Yes," Hermione agreed.

"And I will say, if I were going to match you with someone before all of this, I probably would have picked someone like Harry," said Mrs. Granger.

"Okay," said Hermione.

"But Neville is just...you know, he reminds me of your father," said Mrs. Granger.

"Ewww!" Hermione gasped. "What? No. Why would you say that?!"

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry," said Mrs. Granger. "Okay, so, point is, I understand the draw of Neville. He's very smart, very polite, soft-spoken...but he has a cheeky side too, doesn't he?"

"That's my favorite," said Hermione.

"I know," said Mrs. Granger. "Oh, I am so glad you didn't bring an obvious villain home. I was so worried you were going to bring some cocky arsehole through the door."

"Mum!"

"What? You've always had an attraction to very outwardly confident men," said Mrs. Granger. Then she paused. "People...they like Harry, right? He got along with the other guys?"

"Yes!" Hermione gasped. "I only...gave roses to guys like that the first half of the show." She felt her face turning red. Her mum knew her way too well. "All of the guys were really good friends at the end."

"That's sweet!" said Mrs. Granger. "Okay, so, I'm not going to make your decision for you. I can't. I am happy to welcome either of them as my son."

"So nothing worries you about Neville?"

"Besides the fact that he might bring home a plant that can kill you, not so much," said Mrs. Granger. "I guess out of the two of them, Neville seems more mature. You know, Harry is fun. I think Neville would be a very safe choice."

"This is a really good 'pick Harry' pitch," said Hermione.

Mrs. Granger ignored the comment. "All I'm saying is Neville seems ready for marriage. Harry would have to grow into it. Whoever you choose, just please have a long engagement."

"Well, of course," said Hermione. "There's going to be a lot of adjusting to do. I mean, we can't even be out in public together until after the whole thing airs."

"That'll be tough," said Mrs. Granger.

"I mean, we'll still see each other," said Hermione. "Magic, you know."

"Right, but it's not the same. You can't really bring him fully into your life until this whole thing is done," said Mrs. Granger. "What about Luna and Cho?"

"They want to be surprised," said Hermione. "We talked about it."

"So you don't even know how he's going to fit in with your friends," said Mrs. Granger. "That's huge. That can kill a relationship."

"Yeah, but...I know them. I can't imagine either of them not fitting in," said Hermione.

"True," said Mrs. Granger. "They're all very agreeable people. Harry reminds me a lot of Cedric."

Hermione smiled. "He does, a little, doesn't he?"

"But Neville reminds me of Luna," Mrs. Granger laughed.

"Neville's not that weird," said Hermione, "but I see what you're saying."

"It's great how you all get along," said Mrs. Granger. "It's gonna be great. Whoever you pick, it's gonna be great."

"Thanks, Mum," said Hermione sarcastically. "You've been a lot of help."

"Well, it's not my job to tell you who to marry! I really am proud of you for choosing such great men," said Mrs. Granger. "Like I said, I had concerns, but, you've done well."

Mr. Granger brought two beers out onto the porch with Neville. They sat down and drank.

"So, you want to marry my daughter, eh?" Mr. Granger asked. Neville gulped and braced himself for the scary father speech, but it never came. Mr. Granger saw his face and laughed. "What part scares you more, the marriage or Hermione?"

"Oh, neither," said Neville. Then he thought again. "Well, I mean, I imagine Hermione could be intense when she's angry."

"That's true," said Mr. Granger. "But she doesn't want you to just back down, you know. She needs a man that will challenge her. That's always been the problem. Lots of 'yes men' wrapped around her finger. But she gets bored with that."

"I could see that," said Neville. "You know, I got scared to death during one of the group dates. She couldn't decide which of us to give the group date rose to, so she asked us all to give her a reason why. Can you guess what I said?"

"You said...I'll grow you a dozen magic roses if you pick me," said Mr. Granger.

"Oh, blimey," said Neville with a laugh. "That's actually really good."

"What'd you say, then?" Mr. Granger asked.

"I told her I didn't want it if the only reason she did was because I somehow convinced her through a series of questions," said Neville.

Mr. Granger plopped the beer down on the end table and gasped. "What?...you've got balls, sir! Did you get the rose?"

Neville turned red. "No. Of course not! It was an awful thing to say!"

"But you're still here," said Mr. Granger. "And I'm glad, Neville, you're a really great guy. I'd be proud to have you as my son."

"Really?" asked Neville. "Are you giving me your blessing before I even asked for it?"

"Oh, right," said Mr. Granger. "I'm sorry. Proceed."

"Uhhh," said Neville. "Mr. Granger? Do I have your blessing to marry your daughter?"

"Hmmm," said Mr. Granger. "That's a very interesting question, sir. I'm going to have to think about it."

"I wouldn't blame you, honestly," said Neville. "I mean, Hermione doesn't even know who she wants yet."

Mr. Granger could see Neville was worried. "You really care about her, don't you?" asked Mr. Granger.

"Of course," said Neville. "How couldn't I? You know, she is a very strong woman, but, she has that vulnerable side too, and it's very sweet."

"It is," said Mr. Granger.

The women knocked on the door and cracked it open. "Dessert and games in the living room?" asked Mrs. Granger.

"Wouldn't miss it!" said Mr. Granger. "Let's go!"

Mr. and Mrs. Granger giggled and rushed inside. Hermione looked at Neville. "Okay, something is up. They are way too happy," said Hermione.

"Maybe they just really really like me?" Neville asked hopefully.

They walked into the living room, and Mr. and Mrs. Granger popped crackers. "WELCOME TO THE NEARLY NEWLYWED GAME!"

"What," said Neville.

"The Newlywed Game," Mr. Granger explained, "is this great muggle game show were married couples have to answer questions about each other. You guys aren't married, of course, which is why this is the Nearly Newlywed Game."

"Mum, Dad," said Hermione, "why aren't we just playing Bananagrams like last time?"

"Oh, we thought this would be more fun," said Mrs. Granger. "And more interesting for the cameras." She waved to the cameramen.

"What, are you scared?" Neville asked.

"No, of course not. Do your worst, Mum and Dad," said Hermione. She and Neville took a seat on the couch. Mr. Granger handed each one a dry erase board.

"Alright, it's pretty simple," said Mrs. Granger.

"Hold on," said Neville, staring at the board and the writing utensil in his hand. "What is this?"

Hermione chortled. "You write with it, Neville."

"It smells terrible," said Neville, holding the marker up to his nose. "What the heck is this?"

"Cheap chemical ink," said Hermione.

"You're kidding," said Mr. Granger. "Wizards don't use dry erase markers? What do you use?"

"Parchment and quill," said Neville. "And magic."

"Anyways," said Mrs. Granger. "We're going to ask you questions about each other, and you both write an answer on the whiteboard."

"It's called a whiteboard?" Neville interjected. "That's not very original. What if I want one in another color?" Hermione patted him on the hand.

"And then we'll see who knows more about the other one!" Mr. Granger finished. "Fun, right?"

"Alright, let's go," said Hermione.

"First question is for you, dear," said Mrs. Granger. She was reading off index cards. "What is Neville's biggest pet peeve?"

Hermione and Neville looked at each other, and each one started writing. When they were done, Mrs. Granger said, "Okay, Hermione?"

She flipped over her board. "I said, 'Being Underestimated,'" Hermione said.

Neville laughed. "That's your pet peeve about me. Mine is..." He flipped over the board. "I just said 'Slytherin.'"

Hermione chortled. "Just 'Slytherin'?"

"Yeah," said Neville.

"How is that even a pet peeve? It's just an entity," said Hermione.

"I don't like it," said Neville.

"Alright," said Hermione. "Your turn."

"Alright, Neville," said Mrs. Granger, flipping the next card. "When it comes to shoes, does Hermione prefer heels, sneakers, or sandals?"

Neville nodded and then wrote. Hermione wrote too, and then Neville flipped his board.

"Sneakers," he said.

"That's right!" Hermione shouted, flipping her board.

"And that's one for Neville," said Mr. Granger. "You better get this next one, Hermione!"

"Okay, Hermione," said Mrs. Granger, "What is Neville saving up for?"

"Hmmm," said Hermione. "Okay, I think it might be this." She wrote something on the board and looked at Neville. Neville too was in deep thought, and then wrote. Hermione flipped her board. "I put…'travel'?"

"Yeah!" Neville exclaimed. He flipped his board. "But to be fair, I really didn't think of it until going on this show. I want to see way more. I have really nothing saved up for that, but, you know, we'll do it."

"Yeah, I agree," said Hermione.

"Neville," said Mrs. Granger, "What is one household chore that Hermione will say you do better than her?"

"Oh, come on, that's too easy," said Neville. He wrote quickly, then waited for Hermione.

"Oh, duh," said Hermione. She wrote and then flipped the board. "Cooking!"

Neville sighed. "Oh, you went serious."

"He cooks really well," said Hermione. "What, what did you say?"

He flipped the board. It said, "Gardening."

"Ohhhh," said Hermione. "Yeah, that too."

"I thought it was the obvious choice," said Neville.

"Alright, so we're still one-to-one," said Mrs. Granger. "How about...Hermione...What will Neville say is your go-to website?"

Hermione's face showed she was not confident. "Uhhh...well... here goes nothing." She wrote.

"I know this is wrong, but I have nothing else," said Neville. He wrote.

"I put...'The Ministry of Magic website,'" Hermione said. She flipped her board.

Neville laughed. "You're kidding me," he said.

"It's where I work. I'm literally on it all the time," said Hermione.

"I put 'Cat Pictures,'" said Neville. He flipped his board.

"You're kidding!" Hermione cried.

"I literally couldn't think of anything else," said Neville.

"Well, honestly, your guess is more interesting," said Hermione.

"Cats are more interesting than the Ministry? That's where we're at now, huh?" Neville asked. "Alright."

"Alright, next question, Neville," said Mrs. Granger. "When Hermione is getting dressed in the morning, what outfit are you hoping she puts on?"

Neville turned red. "I can't answer this question in front of you!" Hermione giggled and wrote on the board. Neville looked at her and thought. He finally made a choice and wrote. "Alright," he said. "I put, 'The Red Dress.'"

"The red dress?" Hermione repeated in disbelief.

"Yeah, you wore a red dress once during the thing, and I thought you were...amazing in it. Not that you aren't normally amazing, I just, always remembered that dress."

Hermione shook her head incredulously. "I put 'the red dress' too," said Hermione.

"No!" he cried.

She flipped the board. It said, "The Red Dress."

"How," Neville said.

"I just remembered the look on your face," said Hermione.

Neville dropped the board. "Okay, that's spooky," he said.

"No, that's awesome," said Mrs. Granger. "Shall we keep going?"

"Ummm?" said Hermione, who really wanted to just be alone with Neville at this point.

"Let's swap roles," Neville suggested. "Or have you both looked at the questions?"

"Nope," said Mr. Granger.

"Oh, good," said Neville. "I want to see how you two do."

Mrs. Granger laughed, and Mr. Granger said, "Splendid! Challenge accepted!"

When the game was over (Hermione's parents got most of the questions right), Mrs. Granger packed up most of the leftovers for Neville. "Thank you both," said Neville. "It was a pleasure to meet you."

"You too, Neville," said Mrs. Granger. "Say hello to your Gran from us."

"Will do!" he said with a smile. Hermione walked him outside, and they loaded his things onto the Knight Bus.

"Any idea where we'll meet next?" Neville asked.

"I really don't," said Hermione. "I'm sure it will be amazing."

"As always," Neville agreed, "but I must say. I'm really excited to have a life like your parents have."

Hermione smiled. "I know what you mean," she said. "They're very content."

"Yeah, but it's deeper than that," said Neville. "To just have someone who gets you that much."

"Yeah," said Hermione. "And they really like you, Neville."

"Good," he said with a sigh of relief. "I like them too."

"KISS AND SAY GOODBYE ALREADY!" Stan shouted at them from the bus.

They giggled. "Fine," said Hermione reluctantly "I'll see you...next time I'm allowed to see you."

"Can't wait for this to be done," Neville whispered as he embraced her. "I love you so much, Hermione."

She held him tightly and then kissed him passionately.

Hermione met with Gilderoy at the MBBC to discuss the next steps.

"Alright, Hermione," he said. "So I take it that went well?"

"So well," said Hermione. "My parents were no help at all. I think they'd be happy if I married both of them!"

"Well, now that would be an interesting show," said Gilderoy. "Do let us know if that can be arranged."

"Noooo," Hermione groaned. She knew Gilderoy was making a joke, but it struck her as insensitive. "Where are you sending me next, Gilderoy?"

"Well, you requested a non-tropical location," said Gilderoy, "and we have accommodated. Harry and Neville have both been sent to Hallstatt, Austria."

Hermione squealed in delight. "Perfect," she said.

"They are in separate hotels," said Gilderoy, "and of course we have an itinerary for each of you. You will be seeing Harry first."

"Okay," said Hermione nervously.

"You get one day with Harry, one day with Neville, a day for deliberation, and the next day is the proposal," said Gilderoy.

"Ohhhhhkay," said Hermione. She took a deep breath, and thought she might barf.

"You doing alright?" Gilderoy asked.

"Yeah," she said shakily.

"So, I have to ask," said Gilderoy. "You said your parents were no help, but, I know sometimes that doesn't necessarily matter. How are you feeling?"

"Well, I know I don't really look or sound like I'm good, but," she said, "I am. I'm really confident in the relationships I have that it will lead to a happy marriage. But that's also terrifying!"

"Right," said Gilderoy, "and I've seen this before, that this is the point where it becomes really real."

"Yes," said Hermione. "Especially when you say I have four days to an engagement, and I realize the biggest break up of my life is right around the corner."

"You're right," said Gilderoy. "But you've been great, and I know whatever happens next, you're going to have a fine future. Next time I see you will be on your proposal day."

"Okay," said Hermione. She hugged Gilderoy, then stepped into the Floo.

Harry sat in his hotel room. From his window, he could see the Alps overlooking a lake. The fireplace, which didn't feel out of place, burned softly.

He reclined in his chair and read the letter Hermione had written him on their date in Amalfi:

Dearest Harry,

I can't think about you without smiling. I had no idea what you would be like when you stepped out of the carriage car, and I have been nothing but impressed with the man you are. To be loved by someone like you is wonderful. You make me laugh, you make me feel safe, you are everything I could want in a husband. I feel so lucky to have met you. I can see you as my partner in crime, or fighting crime, for the rest of our lives.

Yours truly,

Hermione

Harry sighed. He turned to the camera and said, "I don't know what to do. I...I love Hermione. I want to be with her, but, I don't know. I woke this morning, and I didn't feel much like getting engaged anytime soon...like everything just got really real all of a sudden, and I'm not sure I'm ready. I don't know what to do. I'm...I'm just going to see how this date plays out today, and...if I'm still feeling like this...I might have a very difficult decision to make. I feel really terrible about this. Ron was so in love with her. Ron was ready. Ugh...I'm going to be that guy on the show that everyone hates."

HERMIONE CAM: "I am excited for my last date with Harry. MBBC picked a wonderful place for us. We're going to tour salt mines and and ice cave! Uhh...yeah...they picked weird things for us to do again."

Harry met Hermione in the hotel lobby. They hugged warmly, and Hermione kissed him. "So?" she said happily. "What do you think?"

"I think it's great," said Harry. "Really nice hotel. Fireplace makes sense."

"Noooo, I mean, Austria! I'm so excited to be here. These views are amazing!" she gushed and took his hand. "We have a Portkey to catch into the mountains."

"Oh, awesome," said Harry. "Out of all the things we've done on these dates, we haven't really hit mountains yet."

"I know! That's because they always give us the weird dates," said Hermione.

"Yeah, mountains sounds normal," said Harry.

"Well, another thing on our itinerary is 'salt mines,' soooo..."

"Of course it is," Harry laughed.

The Portkey was hiding in a potted plant, and ironically, it ended up being a real key. They ended up as promised in a mountainous region, in front of a sign that read "Dachstein Ice Caves."

"Guten-tag!" said the friendly tour guide, a kid who looked like he was trying to pay his way through college. "Welcome, Harry and Hermione to Dachstein Ice Caves! I am Lukas, and I will be your tour guide."

They began their tour, and the caves really were spectacular. Frozen ice formations filled the cave.

"Well," Lukas said towards the end of the tour, "I hear you two are in love, yeah? So you probably want some alone time. I'm supposed to leave you..." They rounded a corner into an open cavern with an ice waterfall in the center. "Here!" he said happily. There was a small table set up with a picnic basket.

"Awesome," said Hermione. "Thank you, Lukas!"

Lukas left, and they sat down and opened the basket. Inside was potato salad, sausages, and a chocolate cake. There was also a bottle of white wine.

"So," Hermione started, "my parents were crazy about you."

"Yeah?" Harry asked. "That's great. I had a great time with your family."

"My mum did raise some questions, though," said Hermione. "Nothing that I'm too concerned about. I plan on having a long engagement either way."

"Oh, yeah, of course," said Harry. "We have so much still to learn about each other, right? I mean, after all of this...Lukas ice cave business."

"Yeah," said Hermione. "Do you think we should live together before we're married?"

"Uhhh..."

"My mum and dad say no, of course, but they're old," said Hermione. "No offense, Mum and Dad! I don't know, I just think that might be the best way to really know how this would work."

"Or we could just have extended visits," said Harry. "We don't need to make the permanent...very permanent decision to move in together. Right away, you know."

"True," said Hermione. "To be honest, I just think that living in Godric's Hollow would be a dream come true."

"Oh, I see how it is," said Harry. "You just want the house."

"And to live by Dumbledore!"

"Oh, don't you worry about that," said Harry. "There will be no shortage of Dumbledore in your life."

"They were all so great," said Hermione. "Your Order family."

"They loved you," said Harry.

They ate a few more bites in silence. "Harry?" Hermione said.

"Yeah?"

"You're acting strange," she said.

"What? No I'm not," he said.

"Yeah, you are," said Hermione. "You're being very restrained. It's not like you."

"Oh, well, to be honest," said Harry. "I'm really nervous today."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah," said Harry. "I'm really nervous about...the possibility of getting engaged."

Hermione sighed. "Ohhhh, thank goodness!"

"What?"

"I'm nervous too," she said. "I almost puked on Gilderoy."

"Oh my gods, yes! Me too!"

"This is just crazy, right? In just three days we could be engaged!"

"Totally crazy," said Harry. "I couldn't agree more."

"But at the same time, it's awesome!" Hermione said. "I can't believe I'm about to be engaged to a wonderful guy. I couldn't have dreamed up better guys."

"Oh, stop," Harry blushed.

"Really, though," said Hermione. "I care about you so much." She reached across the table for his hand.

"And I care about you," said Harry. "I never, never want to hurt you Hermione."

"Same," said Hermione.

Harry gulped.

They exited the cave alone together, and they spent some time on a romantic overlook making out before the crew brought the Portkey to the next destination, the salt mine. They didn't have to endure a guided tour here, and Hermione geeked out in the museum. Harry's heart about burst. Hermione was at her cutest when she was geeking out. He would to take her to every museum in the world just to see that reaction.

They took the giant slide down into the mines themselves, and they arrived at an underground lake. "Okay, now this is cool!" he said.

"Would the two lovebirds like a gondola ride?" asked a young man.

They looked at him. "Lukas?" they said together.

"Awww, you remember my name! Yeah, I got this gig too, erm, so...gondola ride?" he asked.

"Of course," said Hermione. "Thank you, Lukas."

Lukas explained some things about the mine during their ride, and then they slipped into talking about Lukas himself. Evidently, Lukas also worked as a waiter at a local restaurant.

"Oh, well, we have to go!" said Harry.

"It is not the best," said Lukas. "Actually, I'm pretty sure you guys are supposed to go to the really fancy..."

"Nope!" said Hermione. "We want the not-fancy one!"

"Oh, what were they thinking, trying to send us to a fancy place? They know we don't do fancy!" Harry said.

Hermione threw her arms around Harry. "This is my favorite thing about you," she whispered.

"That I don't like fancy restaurants?" Harry asked.

"No, this spontaneity!" Hermione exclaimed.

"Okay," said Lukas, "Seems like you guys want to be alone."

The restaurant was a total hole-in-the-wall, and there was barely room for the crew. They ate schnitzel and french fries with beer.

"Oh, man, this is what I needed!" Hermione said. "This has been a great date, don't you think?"

"Yeah," Harry agreed. "The strange sightseeing they chose for us actually wasn't half bad. And Lukas was great!"

"I can't believe that poor kid has three jobs," said Hermione.

"Yeah, that's rough," said Harry.

"Speaking of kids," said Hermione. Harry started to cough. "Oh, are you alright?"

"Yes, of course," said Harry. "But, uhh, what about kids now?"

"Oh, I was just wondering what kind of parent you think you'll be," said Hermione.

"I have no clue," said Harry. "I figured...I'd just figure it out when it happens. If it happens."

"Yeah," Hermione agreed. "My parents were pretty strict, if you can believe that."

"I can't, actually," said Harry.

"Well, I was their only kid, so they were pretty protective of me," said Hermione.

"So you became an Auror," said Harry. "That's sick, Hermione."

Hermione laughed. "Hey, they don't know everything, and let's not forget my job currently consists of paperwork."

"Now that I could never do," said Harry. "I go crazy if I'm not actively doing something."

"I definitely want to move onto something more interesting one day," said Hermione. "I mostly took the job for the raise. But I also, you know, I had no time for myself or my friends or anything."

"I hear you," said Harry. "Wasn't a big deal for me, of course. My friends are all Aurors too, and being alone drives me nuts."

"Well, if we're going to have a family, it's nice for one parent at least to have a relatively safe job," said Hermione.

"Cheers to that," said Harry.

They walked back through the town to Harry's hotel. Hermione kissed Harry goodnight and wished him well until the next time they saw each other.

HERMIONE CAM: "I'm really not sure how to feel about this date. I believed I loved Harry. I still believe that, but, there was something off about him, and it scares me. I wonder if my date with Neville tomorrow will be just as strange. And if it is, I don't know what the heck I'm going to do about proposal day!"

Harry walked back into the hotel. The cameraman following him whispered. "Hey, Harry, how are you feeling now?"

Harry sighed. "She's so wonderful. I just..." He paused, and then perked up, as if a light bulb had ignited over his head. "Where's Neville?"

"I...," said the man, "I can't tell you."

"I think I need to talk to him," said Harry. "Please? Is he here?"

The cameraman, confused, muttered the transmission spell into his wand. In the editing room, Rita's wand glowed.

"What is it?" she snapped.

"Harry wants to talk to Neville?" the cameraman said.

"What?"

"Yeah, I don't know. Do I let him?"

Rita fumed. "OF COURSE YOU DO!" she cried. "Sounds like DRAMA to me! I tell you, I was not expecting much from these two at the end, but Harry is just making this oh-so-delightfully perfect! Take him to Neville immediately, and don't bother me with any more stupid questions!" She hung up.

The cameraman returned to Harry. "Alright," he said. "Let's go."

Neville was watching Austrian Wizarding Television. It was all in German, but he could for the most part get the gist of what was happening. He heard a knock on the door, and he sprang up, expecting to be greeted by the strudel he had ordered from room service. He opened the door in anticipation, and then felt a strange pit in his stomach.

"Harry?" he asked tentatively.

"Hey, Neville. Can I talk to you?" Harry asked.

Neville looked wide-eyed at the cameraman. "Uhhh...sure," he said. "Come in. I just ordered strudel. Is...everything alright?"

"Maybe?" Harry answered. He sat down in the office chair, and Neville sat on the edge of his bed. "I feel...I have cold feet."

"Cold feet?" asked Neville. "Is that all? You came to me for...a foot warming remedy?"

"Well, no, I...wait, you think I literally mean my feet are cold, don't you?"

"I mean, I know it's not a tropical location. Did you pack socks? I can lend you some of mine," said Neville.

Harry laughed. "Nooooo! Sorry, Neville, it's a muggle expression meaning, even though you love someone, you are afraid to marry them."

"Oh," said Neville. "Well, that is much more serious. Have you talked to Hermione about it?"

"Uh, no," said Harry. "I was afraid if I did she'd send me home on the spot, and I wanted to be sure...I thought my last date with her would fix it."

"Oh, so this started before the date?" Neville asked.

"Yes," said Harry. "About the time I had my final pep talk with Gilderoy."

"Well, why did you come to me for? You should talk to Hermione," said Neville.

"I guess I wanted to get an idea of how you were feeling. To know if I was just getting in my head or not. Neville...are you...do you want to get married?"

"Well, of course I do! What kind of a question is that?"

"You're not having any doubts whatsoever?"

"About Hermione? No! I love her! I came here because I wanted to get married, and I stayed because I want to marry her. What the heck is wrong with you?"

"I don't know! I thought I wanted that too! I'm freaking out here!"

"Okay," said Neville. "Well...you know what I'm going to say."

"I need to talk to Hermione."

"Uhhh...ja! As the Austrians would say."

"But what if it's a mistake?"

"Then don't talk to her," said Neville, "and just see what happens."

"That's what I've been doing. I'm afraid...I'm afraid this whole season I've been just going through the motions. Doing what the show expected of me."

"Harry!"

"I know it's not entirely true," said Harry. "I know my feelings towards her are real. But I think this feeling is also real. That despite everything, I'm just not ready for this."

"Are you saying...you're going to leave?" Neville asked.

"I think...Neville, I love her."

"Okay?"

"But I think...between you and me...it should be you who marries her."

Neville shook his head in confusion. "You're not making any sense."

"If she picks me, then, I think we'll have a nice engagement, and if we get to marriage, I don't know. I don't think it would last. That's just my gut feeling right now."

"How can you say that? What, is there someone else?"

"No, but...there was this centaur."

"Oh no. Harry. Where is this going?"

"He read the dregs of this weird wine stuff and told me a marriage was imminent, but he said the person I would marry was yet to be determined."

"Okay," said Neville.

"Doesn't that strike you as weird? If I should be marrying Hermione, then why wouldn't the centaur know that?"

"Oh, blimey," said Neville. "You really are looking for a way out!"

"But am I wrong though?"

"Yes!" Neville cried. "If Hermione is undecided, which we can presume at this point she is, and if we also presume that you will get married one day, also presuming that there's no such thing as 'soul mates' and there are a number of people in the world one could be perfectly happy with...All the centaur confirmed is you will one day get married."

Harry thought. "But...imminent though."

"Did he say 'imminent,' or are you just rewriting your memory to confirm your theory?"

Harry went pale. "Oh, shit. I don't remember."

"This can all be solved if you just..." Harry took out his wand and placed it to his head. "Whaaat are you doing?!" Neville cried.

"Got a bottle, Neville?"

There was a knock on the door. "Room service!"

"Oh, bloody hell," said Harry, removing the wand. Neville got up and paid for his strudel. He carried in a tray with the strudel and a fancy glass water bottle. "PERFECT!" Harry cried. Harry snatched the water bottle and dumped the water into the sink.

"HARRY!" Neville shouted. "That water was ten dollars!"

"What?! Why?!"

"I don't know! That's why I wanted to try it!"

"Blimey!" Harry gasped, staring into the sink. Then he shrugged, put his wand back to his head, and extracted the memory.

"Harry, I don't have a Pensieve," said Neville.

"You don't?" Harry asked. "Oh, I always bring mine with me. Just a moment." He handed Neville the bottled memory and apparated out of the room.

Neville looked at the camera. "This is insane," he said. "He's completely bonkers. Also, why the hell would he bring his Pensieve with him here?"

As if to answer his question, Harry popped back into the room. "An Auror always has a Pensieve in case they need to investigate a memory." He placed his Pensieve on the bed, a modestly engraved metal dish. He held out his hand to Neville. "Memory?"

Neville looked nervously from the cameras to Harry, and seeing no way out, handed Harry the bottle. Harry poured the contents into the Pensieve while Neville picked up his strudel. Then, Harry grabbed Neville's arm and stuck his head into the Pensieve. Obviously, the camera crew could not follow them into the Pensieve.

Harry and Neville stood in the Roman village in Amalfi. Neville was holding his strudel. "What...the BLOODY HELL...did you do?"

"I need an unbiased observer," Harry explained calmly.

"I am NOT unbiased! Do you even know what unbiased means?! We are DATING THE SAME WOM-"

Harry clapped his hand over Neville's mouth. "Shh," Harry instructed. "Look!"

Harry and Hermione were holding hands, laughing and looking very much in love. Firenze blocked their path with the wine and the cup. Neville took a bite of strudel.

"Oh my gods, this is amazing!" he whispered.

"Shhh!" Harry scolded.

"Oh, hello," said Harry. Harry and Hermione tensed up, as centaurs were not known to be friendly to humans.

"It's fine," said the centaur. "Hello. My name is Firenze, and I am a friend to humans."

"Oh, well, we, humans, appreciate it," said Harry.

"I heard you two had a weird encounter with a psychic on your first date," said Firenze.

"We did!" Hermione laughed. "That was a memorable date, wasn't it?"

"Oh my gods, yes," said Harry. "But surprisingly good despite being told I was going to die."

"Which nearly happened," said Hermione.

"Yeah, so spooky," said Harry.

"How would you like to have a second reading?" asked Firenze.

"What now?" asked Harry.

He handed Harry a cup of wine. "Drink this," said Firenze.

Harry looked at Hermione, who shrugged. Harry took a giant swallow, and then immediately spat it out. "Ugh, I'm sorry. That's disgusting."

"HAHA!" Firenze laughed heartily. "That's okay, I just need the dregs. You can spill it out...slowly though, don't lose any…"

Harry slowly spilled out the wine, feeling very awkward for dumping dark red wine on the floor of the a ruin. Firenze took the cup from his hand before Harry lost the dregs, and then he examined them. "Hmm..." said Firenze.

"It's the Grim, isn't it?" asked Harry with a nervous chuckle.

"No," said Firenze. "I see palm trees."

"Well, those are everywhere around here," said Harry.

"No, in the wine," said Firenze. "It's a sign of imminent happiness and marriage."

Harry and Hermione raised their eyebrows at each other.

Harry and Neville returned to the hotel room. The cameramen snapped back into position.

"That was so weird," said Neville. "I didn't like it. Seeing Hermione on a date with another guy."

Harry stared at him. "Did you eat strudel in the Pensieve?"

"YEAH! That's what I was trying to tell you!"

"Bloody hell, I didn't know you could do that!" Harry exclaimed.

"I don't think anyone's tried before," said Neville.

"Well, this changes everything!" Harry said. "I can't wait to tell Dumbledore! But first...he said 'imminent.'"

"Yes, he did," said Neville. "Imminent happiness and marriage."

"Now," said Harry, "new question. Does he mean happiness is imminent, and marriage is just coming down the road, or..."

"BLOODY HELL!" Neville cried. "Go and talk to-!"

"Firenze!" Harry exclaimed. "Neville, you're brilliant!"

"No. That's not what I was going to say. No. NOOOOOO...!"

Harry grabbed Neville arm, and they apparated.

Firenze was in his classroom at Gryffindor castle. He reared when Harry and Neville apparated in, and Neville squealed.

"Woah, Firenze!" Harry exclaimed. "It's me! It's Harry Potter!"

Firenze placed his hooves back safely on the floor. "Harry Potter," said Firenze. "So nice to see you again. And your friend is...?"

"This is Neville," said Harry. "He's Hermione's other boyfriend."

"Ah," said Firenze. "And where are we in the process now?"

"Wait, hold on," said Neville. "You and the centaur know each other?"

Harry and Firenze exchanged uncomfortable looks. "You see, Neville," said Firenze, "after I appeared on your show, I was banished from my colony for serving humans."

"Oh, that's awful," said Neville. "I'm so sorry."

"Harry Potter here reached out to Dumbledore, and got me a job teaching here at Gryffindor," said Neville.

"I see," said Neville. "Well, congratulations I guess. We're here to...ummm...what exactly are we here for?"

"Can you do a tea reading for Neville?" Harry asked.

"A tea reading?" asked Firenze. "Sure, I can do that. Any particular reason?"

"We're investigating something," said Harry.

Firenze raised his eyebrows at them. "Are you trying to figure out which of you ends up with Hermione?"

Neville said, "no," but Harry said, "absolutely!"

Firenze shook his head. "You are meddling with things you ought not to meddle with."

"THANK YOU!" Neville cried. "Firenze, Harry is just having a mental breakdown because he's getting cold feet about Hermione."

"But you also said I was going to get married soon," said Harry, "so you can see why I'm confused."

Firenze looked back and forth between Harry and Neville. "You want to see if he gets the same result as you."

"Yes," said Harry.

Firenze shrugged. "Okay," he said. He went to his desk and pulled out his tea box. "Neville, what kind of tea do you like?"

Neville resigned to his fate. "Earl grey?" he asked.

Firenze pulled out the packet. "Be back in a moment," said Firenze. He carried the tea packet into a separate room, leaving Harry and Neville alone.

"This is insane," Neville repeated.

"This is the only way I can reassure myself," said Harry.

"Really," said Neville. "This. Is the only way."

Rita Skeeter apparated into the room with a camera crew. "STOP!" she screamed. She slapped Neville's strudel plate out of his hand, and it shattered on the floor, splatting what was left of the strudel.

"Oh, COME ON!" Neville cried.

"Naughty, naughty boys," Rita said. "Trying to figure it all out with a little help from divination? Clever, I must say. We've never had anyone quite as determined as you, Harry Potter. I'm impressed. Too bad it's against the rules. Time to go back and wait for Hermione to make a decision like good boys."

"Hold on," Harry protested. "You sent psychics to my dates TWICE!"

"Yeah, we're definitely never doing that again. I am loving this tizzy you've worked yourself up into, and I know the viewers are going to love it, but we simply can't let you continue. You're dangerously close to actually doing damage to the integrity of the show."

"He should just go talk to Hermione," said Neville.

"Yes," agreed Rita. "That is what contestants usually do in this situation. Harry is being...what do the muggle kids say nowadays? Extra." She pinched Harry's and Neville's ears in her fingers. "Say buh-bye to Firenze." They apparated back to Austria.

Hermione awoke feeling confused about Harry, but she had butterflies in her stomach knowing that she got to spend the whole day with Neville. She opened her envelope from Gilderoy that outlined what they were going to be doing that day. "Oh no," said Hermione with a grin. "Oh yessss!"

Neville met Hermione in his hotel lobby. She hugged and kissed him. "Good morning!" she said.

"Good morning!" he replied.

"How are you liking Austria so far?"

"Well," he said. "It looks very nice. They have very good strudel. And they have very expensive water."

"Oh no, you drank the hotel water bottle? Neville!" Hermione said playfully. "Okay, well, I hope you didn't eat that this morning, because we're going to brunch first."

"Sounds great!" Neville exclaimed.

NEVILLE CAM: "Hermione seems completely normal, which usually would be a great thing for me, but today, it means that Harry probably didn't do his part. Now I have a choice to make. Do I tell Hermione about last night, or let it go? On one hand, I don't want to be chosen just because someone else screwed up. But on the other hand, if she picks him, and he decides to bail, she's going to be crushed. Ugh...why me?"

They strolled through the village and found their destination, an adorable lakeside cafe that looked straight out of a storybook. They sat down to a feast of ham, eggs, rolls, and vegetables.

"So, Neville," Hermione asked casually. "What do you think about death?"

Neville put his orange juice down and stared at her blankly. "Ummm...I'm sorry?"

"You know," Hermione continued, "does it scare you, excite you? What feelings come to mind?"

"Uhhhhh," said Neville, "I'm less than enthused about the prospect?"

Hermione nodded. "Okay."

"Were you just lying awake last night thinking of questions to trip me up?" Neville asked.

"No," said Hermione. "It relates to what we're doing next, so I was wondering what your feelings were."

"Oh, okay," said Neville. "That clears that one right up. So, what, we're having a romantic stroll through an old graveyard?"

"Close," said Hermione. Neville stared at her waiting for more of an answer, but she didn't offer anything else on the subject. "I do want to ask you a couple of questions that tripped Harry up."

"Oh, great," said Neville.

"I really didn't intend them to be that way, but I guess with everything getting so much more real, these questions are kinda scary. I must admit I felt pretty nauseous after my sit-down with Gilderoy."

"I know what you mean," said Neville. "It's scary and exciting that this is almost over."

"So," said Hermione, taking his hand across the table, "what sort of a parent do you think you'll be?"

"Oh," said Neville. He thought. "Well, I won't be like Gran, that's for sure."

"Awww!" said Hermione.

"Well, are you surprised? I told you what my childhood was like."

"True," said Hermione. "But she does love you in her own way."

"I know," said Neville. "But I will not be like Gran in most other aspects."

"Fair enough," laugh Hermione. "Do you think we should live together before we're married?"

"Well, I've actually thought about this one," said Neville. "The romantic in me says no."

"Really?" asked Hermione. "Why?"

"That's kinda the fun of getting married, isn't it?" asked Neville. "We can even have our stuff moved to...wherever we're going to live...while we're on honeymoon. Of course, practically, we do have a lot to learn about each other, so it might be good to move in before. Not immediately though. We'll just have some extended visits until then."

"That's very thought out," said Hermione. "And actually, the more I think about it, I feel like moving in immediately would be too stressful and cause fights."

"Right," said Neville. "We have to ease into it."

"Just like we're easing into an engagement," Hermione laughed. "Oh gods, Neville. Can I do really do this?" Neville's eyes widened. Was she actually asking him? "Oh, nevermind," she said. "Let's go on to our first stop."

They left the bill for the producers to pick up and strolled through the rest of the town to what looked like a church.

"Oh my," said Neville, turning pale.

"What?" asked Hermione. "Do you know where we are?"

"Are we getting married now?" Neville asked.

Hermione cackled. "No," she said. "Come on."

They walked inside, and Neville froze as soon as they walked through the door. The walls were lined with skulls. "Hermione?" he asked.

"Yeah?" she asked.

"Why?" he asked.

"Why what?"

"Just...just why?"

A guide appeared, a little old man in a brown suit. "Welcome to the Ossuary," he said in broken English.

"Ossuary," Neville repeated. "Is this German for 'nightmare'?"

"No," said the guide. "This is a charnel house. Because there wasn't much room for graveyards in the mountains, bodies were exhumed and placed in the charnel house. These are all real bones. Their relatives would paint their skulls to commemorate them."

"I see," said Neville. "Well, that's kinda sweet, in a weird, twisted way."

"Why don't you take a look around, and let me know if you have any questions?" said the guide.

"Sure thing, thank you," said Neville. They strolled along in silence out of respect for the bones around them, occasionally pointing out their favorite designs. "These are actually really cool," said Neville. "I wonder what someone would paint on me."

"Probably plants," said Hermione half-sarcastically.

"Uhh...is that?...yeah alright," said Neville.

Hermione laughed. "What about me?" she asked.

"Hm," he said. "A book?"

"Uhhhhh," she said. "Okay, yeah."

"I mean, if you look at these, most of them just have designs," said Neville. "Like you can't really boil someone down to one thing, you know?"

"Right," said Hermione. "It's just cheap. You're so much more than plants, Neville."

"Well, I would sure hope so," said Neville.

They kissed in the back of the charnel house. "Ready for the next stop?"

"Let's go," said Neville.

"Have you ever skied?" she asked.

"Oh bloody hell," he replied.

"So that's a no?"

"Why do you do this to me?" he asked.

She took his hand, and they left the charnel house. A Portkey was ready for them outside, a mitten hidden in a bush, and they appeared in front of a lodge in the midst of the mountains.

NEVILLE CAM: "As I'm looking around at the muggles strapped to their death sticks, I contemplate for a second whether all of this is really worth it...Don't look at me like that!...I said for a second!"

"So you're really making me do this?" Neville asked.

"Of course!" Hermione said with a grin. "But don't worry, we're going to do the bunny slopes. I've actually not done this before either."

"Oh, okay," said Neville. They went inside the lodge, and a worker helped them choose some rental skis and poles. They carried their equipment to the bunny slopes out behind the lodge.

"Hello, Hermione!" said a familiar voice.

"WHAT?! LUKAS?!" Hermione cried. "Don't tell me you work here too!"

"Well, they were in a pinch for an instructor, and I know the manager," said Lukas.

"You know this kid?" asked Neville.

"I've seen him around quite a bit recently," said Hermione.

"Hello, Neville, I am Lukas," said Lukas, "and I will be your ski instructor today. So, neither of you have done this before?"

"Let's just say it's not too popular a pastime where we're from," said Neville.

"That is too bad," said Lukas. "Well, with practice, anyone can do it. My goal is to get you down that hill today." They regarded the hill. It seemed larger now they were at the base of it. Neville took Hermione's hand for reassurance. "Let's begin with the basics." Lukas showed them how to put on their skis and how to use their poles. They practiced their positions, and Lukas demonstrated how to use the lift. "It is a very smooth course," Lukas said after coming down. "You just do what I told you, and you should have no problem!"

"Oh, sure," said Neville.

"Well, here goes nothing," said Hermione. She moved to the lift, and Neville followed. When the lift reached the top of the hill, Hermione dismounted properly, but Neville nearly missed. Lukas coached them from the bottom, and they took off down the hill. Hermione promptly face-planted.

Lukas removed his skis and rushed to her side. "Are you okay?" he asked, bending beside her.

Hermione lifted her head out of the snow. "Yeah," she said. Lukas helped her get up and guided her down the slope. Neville brushed snow out of her hair when she reached the bottom.

"So, how'd you do?" she asked Neville.

"I went pretty sideways," said Neville. "But I managed. It's actually pretty fun. I'm ready to go again."

"Really?" Hermione asked. "Okay, let's do it."

Hermione fell many more times.

"Well," she said after about the fifth go, "I'm clearly not cut out for this. Neville, you're kinda rocking it, though!"

"You sound surprised," said Neville.

"Well," said Hermione with a blush, "I mean, just knowing your history."

Neville looked around. "Lukas," he said, "what's the next step up?"

"The next biggest hill, you mean?" Lukas clarified. "That one there. It's still considered a bunny slope, just a little steeper. You wanna try?"

Neville looked at Hermione's nervous face. "Yeah," he said. "Why not?"

Nobody had been expecting either of them to succeed so much they'd be moving on to another slope, so the crew quickly made way for their stars to tackle the next slope.

"Hermione," said Lukas, "I would not recommend you do this."

Hermione cackled. "Oh, thank you, Lukas. I was definitely going to do it before you said that."

"No offense," he continued.

"None taken!" she laughed. "Oh wow, he's already on his way up!" Neville reached the top of the hill and dismounted the lift confidently. Hermione's heart fluttered at the base beside Lukas. Neville got to the edge and waved to them. "GO NEVILLE!" they cried. Neville took a deep breath, shoved off, and then completely wiped out. Hermione screamed. Lukas and some other staff rushed to his aid.

Neville had sprained his ankle. They brought him back down to Hermione's side. "I'm sorry, Hermione," he said.

Hermione kissed him. "You were brilliant," she said. "Come on, let's go inside where we belong."

They got Neville some ice for his injury, and they gave the couple a private lounge with hot cocoa and a cozy fireplace.

"They say I'm lucky," he said. "It could have been way worse. I should be able to walk normally within a week."

"Oh, Neville," said Hermione. "What got into you today?"

Neville shrugged. "I thought I was good enough. Lukas thought I could do it, so, you know, fire that kid for sure. And...you know...kinda showing off for you."

"You don't need to show off for me, Neville," said Hermione.

"Yeah, I do," said Neville. "But I guess, it's probably more for me than for you. I need to make myself believe that I deserve you."

"Awwww, stop," said Hermione. "I don't give a rat's ass how good you are at skiing."

"Good," said Neville. "But, I wasn't half bad."

"You were miles better than I was," said Hermione. "I've got two left feet."

"Maybe with more practice, I could take that hill," said Neville.

"Well, we'll have to come back then," said Hermione. "Maybe Lukas will be a surgeon or something great by then."

"Ehhh," said Neville. "Wouldn't count on that." He poured himself some more cocoa. "Hermione?"

"Yeah?"

"That really does sound like a good plan. Coming back here in a few years," he said. "Blimey, this is our last date."

"No," she said, then stopped herself. "Well, I mean, it doesn't have to be. Don't you think about it."

"I gotta think about it," he said. "This is the end, isn't it? Nothing else on the itinerary."

"Nothing else," said Hermione. "We can stay here as long as we like, though, within reason. There's a hot tub somewhere."

"Really?" he said.

"Yeah. You wanna go?"

"I didn't bring swim trunks," said Neville. "Can we rent those too?"

"Oh, I don't think rent is the proper word," said Hermione.

Neville laughed. "No, I suppose not."

"The MBBC can buy them for us," said Hermione.

"Great," said Neville. "Let's do that."

They got some spiced wine to drink and spent some quality time in the hot tub, which really made Neville's ankle feel better. They saw the sunset on the Alps before having to return to their rooms.

NEVILLE CAM: "Harry? Oh, gosh, I completely forgot about him. That's probably for the best, right? I mean, if this is going to be my last date with her, I want it to be a good one, no matter what happens next. And this was a very, very good one."

"Harry," said Gilderoy, "it's time to go look at rings."

"Rings?" Harry asked. "Oh, sure. We just do that right here?" He looked around at his hotel room that had gotten a tad bit cluttered. His Pensieve sat on the desk glowing ominously.

"No, our jeweler is off-site. I'll take you," said Gilderoy.

"Sure," said Harry. He ran his hands through his hair before leaving the room with Gilderoy.

"So," said Gilderoy, "I heard you were having a rough time."

"Yeah," said Harry, "but I think I'm good now."

"Great!" said Gilderoy. "Nothing worse than having a favorite contestant back out."

"Oh, back out? No, that's not me," said Harry. "I love Hermione. I'd never back out on her."

"Good to hear!" Gilderoy said. He put his hand on Harry's shoulder, and they apparated.

They arrived at a mountain cottage. An older, balding wizard sat casually in a reclining chair sipping champagne. "Hello, Harry!" he said. "I am Nigel, and I'm here to help you pick out an engagement ring."

"Excellent," said Harry.

"Take a seat, young man," said Nigel. "This is very exciting, isn't it? I have a wide variety of rings and stones here." He opened a case, and multicolored stones sparkled at Harry. Nigel waved his wand, and the diamonds rose to the top. "We have, of course, your diamonds. The traditional stone for marriage, and supposedly good for fertility, eh?"

"Heh-heh," said Harry politely. "What else? Hermione is not very conventional."

"I see," said Nigel. He waved his wand over the case, and the diamonds returned. A green stone rose to the top. "Perhaps she'd like jade? It symbolizes pure love, serenity, and truth. A most romantic stone."

"Oh, god, no," said Harry. "Ugh, I just mean...nothing green. It reminds us of..."

"Slytherin? Right," said Nigel. He waved the jade stones away. "Here are some various colors of quartz crystal. Quartz is extremely popular nowadays as it has many magical properties associated with love. Do any of these speak to you, sir? What's the lady's favorite color?"

"Ummm," said Harry. He was drawing a blank.

Nigel waved the quartz away. "There's also Zircon, which comes in these delightful pale colors. Beautiful as your lady, aren't they? Great stone for beauty and sensuality, and represents your eternal love and friendship."

"I think...can I decide later?"

Nigel glowered at him. "No, Harry. The proposal is tomorrow. You must have a ring. I've offered everything I can."

Gilderoy stepped in. "Harry has been under a lot of stress this week. We can let him some time to rest. I'll bring in Neville. Should probably have gotten him first anyways. He's much more...stable." Gilderoy grabbed Harry and apparated out. They reappeared in the lobby of Harry's hotel. "Harry," said Gilderoy sternly, "please be honest. What do you want to do?"

Harry thought he might cry. "Gilderoy, please," he said, "can I talk to Hermione?"

"Yes, Mum, I'm sure," said Hermione with tears in her eyes. "Tomorrow. I'm excited. But I feel so bad about-" There was a knock on the door. Hermione moved the phone away from her lips and looked in perplexity at the door. "Mum, can I call you back?...It's probably Gilderoy. Yes, see you soon! Love you!"

She hung up the hotel phone, wiped her eyes quickly with a tissue, and opened the door. Harry stood there with a crew behind him. "Harry?" she asked tentatively.

"Hermione," he said. "Can I please come in?"

"Uh, sure," said Hermione. They sat side by side on the edge of the bed. "What's wrong?"

"I...I need to know now. I can't go on if I don't. Do you want to marry me?"

"Oh, Harry," she whispered, tears in her eyes. She hugged him and started crying. "Oh, Harry, Harry, Harry!"

It was at that moment Harry realized he had screwed up. "Oh, oh, no, erm..." He felt his chest tightening in panic. "What...what I meant was...oh no..."

"Harry," she moaned. Then she let up and looked him in the eyes. He braced himself for a passionate kiss, but then she said, "Oh, Harry. No."

"What I meant was...they want me to pick a ring, and, I just can't bring myself to because I've been thinking...wait...did you just say 'no'?"

"I'm so sorry!" she sobbed. "I did think...it took me until today to realize..."

Harry wiped away her tears with his sleeve, then grinned at the cameramen. "She said no! SHE SAID NO! Oh, Hermione!" It was his turn to embrace her, in a twisted sort of happiness. "Oh, Hermione! You really are the best!"

"Wait...what?!"

"Oh, Hermione," Harry repeated. "I really thought I was in love with you."

"And I you! But then I just got this feeling..."

"That something just wasn't quite right?!"

"Yeah!"

Harry breathed a huge sigh of relief and fell backwards in the bed. "You have no idea how this makes me feel."

"Oh my gosh. I'm so glad you came here! I was just talking to my mum, and I couldn't decide how I wanted to go about this, but then you...you just made it so easy!"

"Hermione, I am sorry that it had to be like this," he said. "I mean, I'm disappointed in myself, I think, that I couldn't get there."

She took his hand. "But it's okay," she said. "It's a strange feeling, but, this really was a blessing. I feel...light."

"Like a huge weight is just gone?"

"Exactly," laughed Hermione.

"Well," said Harry, "I guess, this is goodbye?"

Hermione laughed at the absurdity. "I really am sorry too. I feel like...and I know this is terribly cliche...but maybe down the road, we could stay really good friends."

"Yes," said Harry. "Yes! That's brilliant! You're brilliant, and, I'm so glad I came here and met you and everyone. I learned so much about myself. And you and Neville...you're going to be just great."

"Thank you," said Hermione with a huge smile.

She hugged Harry one more time, and he kissed her on the cheek. "Goodbye, Mrs. Longbottom."

Hermione chortled. "Goodbye, Harry."

"What," said Rita Skeeter.

Hermione and Gilderoy sat across the table from her, all smiles. "That's right," said Hermione. "It's just Neville. Which is fantastic, because I was going to choose him anyways. Really, that was the best break up I could have ever imagined."

"What," Rita repeated.

"I had a feeling it would come to something like this," said Gilderoy. "I'm terribly sorry it didn't come to a huge fight or something. I know how much you love the drama. But, isn't the point that two people have found each other and can't wait to get engaged tomorrow?"

"What," Rita repeated.

"Can you please say something else? I know this is surprising, but, now that Harry's already gone, I was hoping that we could make tomorrow's engagement extra special," said Hermione.

"What."

"Oh, just wait until you hear this," said Gilderoy. "It will be the best engagement in the history of The Bachelor."

Breathe in, breathe out.

Neville had never before found it so incredibly necessary to think about breathing, but he was so very afraid that he would forget to do so.

Breathe in, breathe out. Put on suit jacket. Breathe in, breathe out. Adjust tie. Breathe in, breathe out. Am I wearing pants? Breathe in, breathe out. Hair as good as it's gonna get. Breathe in, breathe out. Don't forget the ring. Breathe in, breathe out. Gilderoy arrives. Breathe in, breathe out. Apparate. Breathe in, breathe out. A beautiful flowered path leading out over the lake. Breathe in, breathe out. Mountains all around. Village in the distance. Skiing was fun. Breathe in, breathe out. Gilderoy says some stuff. Breathe in, breathe out. I'm supposed to walk now. Oh gods. How does one walk? Breathe in, breathe out. Right foot, left foot. You got this, Neville. Time for either the best or worst day of your life.

HERMIONE CAM: "I knew this day would be exciting, but I wasn't prepared for just how excited I would be. Neville is perfect. I think on some level, in the back of my mind, I knew all along it would be him. But I had to play the game. I had to weigh my options and give the other guys a fair shake. In the end, it was so painfully obvious to me that this was right. I feel stupid for not ending this whole thing sooner. Think of how much more time we could have had together! But I guess I wouldn't have traded this experience for the world. We needed the journey. What's that saying, 'it's not about the destination, it's about the journey?' Eh, agree to disagree today. This destination has made the whole journey worth it."

NEVILLE CAM: "I had a whole speech planned for this moment, but now as I'm getting closer to her, I can't remember a bit of it. Guess I have to 'speak from the heart' as they say."

"Hermione," he said. Oh gods. Now what? Do I get down on one knee now? I've never watched this show before. What's the guy supposed to do? Oh, bloody hell, she's talking.

"As you know I had many great guys," Hermione was saying. "But you always stood out to me, even when you thought you weren't standing out. That humbleness is one of my favorite things about you, Neville. As you know, I'm not always all that humble."

"No," he said with a laugh. Good job, idiot. You've said 'Hermione' and 'no.' What is wrong with you? This is going to be on TV, too!

"As the show progressed, I was continually blown away with how easily you were able to read me and calm me down. I feel like I've known you so much longer, and Neville, and I want to keep knowing you for the rest of our lives. And I've been waiting so long to say this...I love you, Neville Longbottom."

"I'm sorry?" Neville asked. "Can you say that again?"

"I love you," she repeated with a nervous giggle.

"Oh my gods," Neville said, the rush of those words nearly knocking him over. "I love you too, Hermione!" He hugged and kissed her, and he had the distinct feeling he was forgetting something. He stared into her eyes or what felt like an eternity before it hit him. "Oh, bloody hell!" He dropped to one knee. "Hermione Granger, you are the love of my life, and I can't wait to start a new journey together, you beautiful, fantastic, crazy, amazing-"

"Neville...!" Hermione muttered with tears forming in her eyes.

"Oh, right. Will you marry-?"

"YES!" She squealed with delight as he slid the ring onto her finger. "Oh my gods, it's beautiful!" she whispered.

"Did I choose right?" he asked.

"It's perfect," she said, wrapping her arms around him. "Oh, wait. Gilderoy says I have to do this." She picked up a rose, and just for good measure, got on one knee. "Neville Longbottom, will you accept this rose?"

"Yes, Hermione. A hundred times yes."

They kissed some more, and doves were released. Neville jerked away for a moment in shock, then resumed kissing Hermione.

"But wait," Hermione whispered. "It gets better."

"Better? How?" he asked.

"Come with me," she said.

They walked back up the flowered path, and Gilderoy was standing at the edge waiting for them. "Congratulations, Neville," he said, shaking Neville's hand.

"Thanks, Gilderoy," said Neville.

"We have some people who are just dying to see you," said Gilderoy. Gilderoy gestured to a pegasus-drawn carriage. Out of the carriage came Mr. Granger, Mrs. Granger, and Gran.

"Merlin's beard!" he cried. "Gran! You came all the way here?! You all knew?!"

"Hermione made a special request last night to get them all out here," said Gilderoy.

"Right after Harry went home," said Hermione. "I knew before then, of course, but-"

"Oh, so Harry's been gone?!" Neville exclaimed. "Oh, wow!"

Gran hugged and kissed her grandson, followed by Mrs. Granger, and then a hearty handshake and pat on the back from Mr. Granger.

"Welcome to the family," said Mr. Granger.

"Thank you, sir!" he said.

The Grangers hugged and kissed their daughter.

"Smart girl," said Gran to Hermione. "I knew you would do the right thing, dear."

"Thank you, Gran," said Hermione, hugging her.

"Oh, this place is lovely!" exclaimed Mrs. Granger. "We should have the wedding here."

"I know the perfect church!" Neville cried, and Hermione pushed him playfully.

Gilderoy turned to the cameras. "Well, Bachelor Nation, this concludes another exciting journey for another happy couple. We're going to give the happy couple and their family some space now, but please join us for "After the Final Rose," beginning immediately after the credits!" He pointed his wand at the screen, and the credits rolled over scenes of Neville, Hermione, and their family.