Love in Motion: NevilleHermione

Word Count: 348


A smile pulls at her lips as she watches Harry and Ginny share their first dance as husband and wife. It's such a beautiful occasion, but she can't feel the faintest hint of sadness. Ron and Lavender will be celebrating their first wedding anniversary in two weeks; Harry and Ginny are officially newlyweds.

And then there's Hermione, the girl with so much love to give, if only she wasn't married to her work. Harry and Ron have tried several unsuccessful matchmaking attempts, but it never works. In the end, she doesn't have time to get to know some new person and try again, hoping this one will be different this time.

Other couples file onto the dancefloor, smiling at one another as they spin and twirl.

She isn't jealous. Really, she's not. Hermione doesn't actually mind being alone, but it gets so lonely sometimes.

"Remember in fourth year, I asked you to the Yule Ball?"

Neville's voice draws her out of her thoughts. Hermione glances at him, offering him a small smile.

"You were the most beautiful girl there that night," he adds. "But that hasn't changed."

Hermione chuckles softly, shaking her head. "Fairly sure that's supposed to be the bride," she points out.

Neville offers her a sheepish, almost apologetic grin, a dusty pink staining his cheeks. He holds out his hand. "Dance with me?"

It's strange, really. Neville has always been one of the sweetest people she's had the joy of knowing, but she's never considered him someone to date. Then again, while at school, she hadn't had many opportunities to date at all. Now, it's almost like seeing him in a different light. The awkward, clumsy, forgetful boy is gone. In his place stands a man who has been through hell but refused to be broken by it.

Maybe she doesn't have to be lonely. Maybe she can take a chance on a missed opportunity. Maybe something can grow from it.

She takes his hand, and something inside her stomach seems to tickle and flutter. It's a leap of faith, but she's willing to try.