Friends before Lovers

by punkyredhead

After the Great War, Hermione finds herself the only one from the Golden Trio waiting. When she recieves a shock, one of her best friends petitioned for her and didn't tell her about it. How can friends become lovers. Watch as they become closer, as they revisit scenes in the past that shed some light on their feelings that had always been there. Rated M for later chapters.

18. Chapter 18

I don't own anything, I hope you enjoy the chapter. Thank you for all of the reviews, follows and favorites. I makes my day.

Waking up to an empty bed after spending all day with George was disappointing for Hermione. He is working at the shop with Fred and Lee, trying to get everything in order before the summer takes off and they are trying to keep up with weddings and preparing for him to be at Hogwarts. Stretching across the bed, burying her nose into his pillow and breathing deep his scent, he smells like cut grass, gummy bears and leather. An odd combination and it took her forever to figure out what he smelled like but they all make sense. But the grass and leather make her think of Quidditch and gummy bears make her think of his goofy side, sweet and tender. Owling McGonagall after dinner last night, George had accepted the offer for his teaching position and both of them advising that they would be starting at the school in approximately a week and a half. At dinner last night George spent most of the evening trying to convince Hermione she needed to take some time off of work, relax a little and take time for her.

Last night

"Meenie, you have been on the go for the last 10 years basically, take some time and enjoy yourself. Go over and see Mum, spend girlie time with Fleur or Ginny. Hang out with Sirius. Plus you will see the girls this weekend. The school is not going anywhere and you need to be good to yourself, this summer is going to be a long one."

"I just don't like feeling like a bump on a log."

"I know you, you will still pack a ton of stuff into your week but at least you won't worry about work."

"Fine, just means I get a chance to cook a little more as well."

"That's fine by me," rubbing his belly and laughing, "I won't complain about food."

Back to present time

Walking into the bathroom to take a shower and get ready for the day. Easing through her morning routine and deciding that after food, she is going to see Molly. Feeling a little guilty as she hasn't seen her since the get together when she blew up at Ron she deemed the Burrow should be her first visit. She is eating a small breakfast knowing well enough that Molly is going to make her eat while she is there. Constantly telling Hermione that she needs to eat more and that she is wasting away. Finishing up the toast and placing her dishes in the sink, checking herself in the mirror one last time before stepping into the Floo and stepping out at the Burrow. "Molly? Are you here?"

"In here, is that you Hermione?"

"Yes, I thought I would pop by for a visit. Haven't had much time lately."

"Oh sweetie," engulfing the young witch and a crushing hug, "Ginny told me about your parents but said you needed your space. I wanted to check on you but she said George had you taken care of. Did he?"

"George has been wonderful." Bowing her head and blushing at the thought of him, he has been wonderful and so caring.

"No need to be embarrassed about loving him Hermione. I am glad you found someone, it's even better that it is one of my sons."

"I know you always wanted me to think of Ron that way, I was always so sorry Molly that I couldn't. He and Harry are like brothers with everything we have been through." Shaking her head, trying to find the words, "I hated disappointing you."

"Hermione, look at me," taking her chin in her palm, tilting her face upwards, "I was never disappointed in you, just confused, I couldn't see anything outside of how comfortable you were around each other. I assumed it was because you loved him in that way." Shrugging her shoulders and removing her hand from Hermione's face, "We love you Hermione and although it was a surprise. We see how good you are for George and he is for you." Standing up and walking back over to the stove, "How about I fix you something to eat? You are far too thin."

"I would love that Molly." Taking a deep breath and smiling, "I have some good news. Actually good news for both George and I do. I resigned from my position at the Ministry."

"Hermione…" Turning around to look at her.

"It's for a good reason, I have been asked to teach at Hogwarts."

"That's wonderful, what subject?"

"Defense against the Dark Arts and I haven't even told you the best part yet." Smirking at the confused look on Molly's face, "George will be teaching as well, Madam Hooch is retiring, he will be overseeing Flying and Quidditch."

"Wow. Minerva is letting him back into the castle after everything he and Fred did?" Nodding her head while letting it all sink in, "That is not exactly the news I had expected to hear but I am glad that you are both going to be doing what you love."

"It will be an adventure that I know. Minerva really wanted me to teach and wasn't going to offer it to George if I didn't want her to. She was concerned I would object to him being in the castle."

"Do you mind him being there?"

"No, I am ecstatic that he took the job, we will have shared quarters at the school with Floo access to the flat." Shaking her head, "He is a wonderful young man, I mean that Molly, I couldn't ask for anyone better. I never knew how much he actually paid attention to me in school until recently; I took a lot of his friendship for granted."

"Well, all of my boys are very attentive to the ones they love or I like to think they are."

"I don't think I have ever met a family quite like yours. It took me a few years to get used to you all when I would come over. All of you are so much alike but then so different at the same time. You took me in, when I needed it most when my parents couldn't understand what I was going through with becoming a witch." Taking a deep breath, "I mean look at Charlie, I had never met him truly before I showed up at Shell Cottage and just based off of what he knew of me from your stories he took great care of me." Clearing her throat, "Bill and Fleur were wonderful and helped me but without Charlie, let's just say, I wouldn't be where I am today."

"I wish you would have told someone about when happened Hermione, I mean we could have helped you as well."

"Sometimes it is hard to admit you need help," Wiping her eyes, "You all had so much going on especially with Fred at St Mungo's and Percy just coming back into the family, you were trying to rebuild your family. He was able to pull me out of the funk I had sunk into and he would just talk to me." Smiling at Molly," Once you get him started talking, sometimes it is hard to get a work in edgewise."

"You were and are part of our family." Sighing and looking at the young woman before her, "Hermione, I am going to ask you something and I hope you will answer it truthfully."

"O-o-ok ay," cringing at what the question might be.

"How long were you under the Cruciatus Curse?"

"A long time." Shaking her head, "I truly have no idea how long but she had me alone for several hours. Why?"

"I know that there can be lasting side effects to exposure to the curse. Is that why you are so thin?"

"My Medi-Witch thinks that is part of it but I also like to run to clear my head." Looking over and out the window, "I have been seeing her regularly since the war. I have had some issues with my weight and nightmares since then." Tearing her eyes away from the window, glancing at Molly's face and back at the table. "Since you know about the side effects. I guess you know, that there can be issues with having children?"

"Yes dear." Taking her hand again and squeezing it, "We, I mean Arthur and I, know we always talk about the grandchildren we want to have but are ok if that doesn't happen. Have you told George about any of this?"

"Not about the side effects, I imagine he has some idea though. I mean he has been on the receiving end of a few beatings while trying to wake me from nightmares. I haven't figured out a good way to get it into a conversation." Grimacing at the thought, "There aren't any stipulations about having children in the new law. They imposed the new law hoping that there would be children but they haven't reached the point of requiring couples to have children. I know I need to tell him but I was hoping that I would get good news at my monthly visit to St. Mungo's but unfortunately I am the only witch that has been under the influence of that particular curse for that long. So I am sort of a trial case."

"We will get through all of this together, that is what family does." Setting a plate of eggs, bacon and potatoes down in front of Hermione, "Now eat some of this, this is going to be a very busy summer and you need your strength."

"Thanks Molly," Nodding her head, "I really appreciate everything. I mean it. Everything, from that first year until now, I know we had some rough patches but I wouldn't trade any of it." Stabbing a potato and putting it in her mouth, thinking while chewing, "I have had so many wonderful memories in this house, more than at my own parent's home," tears welling up in her eyes, "Did you know in the seven years at Hogwarts, I spent maybe 6 months at home with them? I abandoned them for this world."

"They understood more than you give them credit for." Wiping her hands on her apron and taking a seat across from Hermione. "I am going to tell you a secret, one that I told Arthur I would never tell you but I think you need to know. We, Arthur and I went and spoke with your parents while you kids were at school. We went in your fifth year; we wanted to let them know how extraordinary you were. We knew that there was no way they would understand without us telling them. Being Muggles and all, they wouldn't understand a lot of it but they still needed to know. We told them how you helped Harry and Ron all those years and how the rest of our family loved you. We wanted them to know that while you weren't with them, you were loved."

"I don't know what to say, I mean, thank you." Smiling at Molly, "That makes a little more sense, that is around the time I noticed a little change in my mum's letters, before she seemed distant almost cut off at times but in our fifth year her letters became warmer, more loving again."

"We knew that you were going to become a very strong and powerful witch and that you would be a big part of Harry's plan to defeat Voldemort. They needed to know that."

"I always wished they understood what magic meant to me and I think, looking back now I think that they did." Finishing the food on her plate, "That was wonderful Molly. I can't thank you enough. For everything, please let Arthur know." Placing her hands in her lap, "None of us want to get married like this but I haven't ever been happier. George is a huge part of that."

"I am happy to hear that. Have you spoken with Ron? I mean since you two, um… had it out?"

"No, I am not sure that I am quite ready to talk to him yet, I mean he was my best friend but there were a lot of times, even in school that he made me feel less than adequate, I don't think I will get comfortable with him again. I am sorry Molly, I mean he is still my friend but I can't believe he thought that I would lie or be jealous of him and Harry." Groaning in frustration, "I have never wanted to be in the spotlight but being friends with Harry has that effect. And as much as I love him, we know that Harry doesn't think things through, I knew after first year that I had to stay with him, he would need me." Shaking her head and smiling, "In the same respect I needed him, he felt like a brother since the troll accident. Until that first summer I didn't know how much you could miss someone. But he couldn't remember to do his homework let alone plan and execute half of what we did. Don't get me wrong, I would go through it all again to be where we are today but some days I just wish they would have fought me a little less."

"They were teenage boys and I am sorry to hear that Ron made you feel that way. We all know how much you did to help the two of them, George too by the sounds of it." Getting up from her place at the table, "How about I make a nice lunch and you take it to the twins and Lee? They are probably trying to get ready for the upcoming year between weddings and then George being away at Hogwarts."

"Yep they are trying to get ahead on a few of their more popular items. I told them I would help with potion brewing on the weekends when I can while we are at Hogwarts and up until we go. I have a lot of planning to do though with taking on Defense, Remus has agreed to help me get a handle on things."

"You will be fine Hermione, you have never needed help with organization before plus was DADA one of your favorite classes? And one you always passed with flying colors, right?" As she is bustling around the kitchen sending spells at different pots and pans, pulling items from cabinets and putting them in a basket for Hermione.

"Yes, but being a student and being the professor are two different things. I am just nervous. I know I will be fine but I will still worry for a little while."

"How are you otherwise, I mean, are you still having nightmares?"

"I did just the other night, it was a bad one. Luckily I don't think I hit George but I know I scared him." Wrinkling her nose and frowning, "It can be difficult to get me awake if I get too far gone into the nightmare. Once he finally got me awake, I talked about it and showered. He had me read to him, from my favorite book to get me to relax."

"And did it help?"

"I was able to fall back asleep without taking a potion, so yes it worked."

"Good, I will sleep a little easier knowing he can help you with them." Looking at the young woman with a loving smile on her face, placing the last of the items for the lunch in the basket and placing it on the table, "There is a warming charm on the food so it will stay warm until you take it to them. They will love you for it, they love home cooked meals."

"Thank you Molly, I will let them know it is from you." Getting up from her spot on the bench, "I am glad we were able to talk today, it helps. I will try and make it over more often than I have lately. I am not sure about this Sunday; Fleur has invited all of the girls to her parent's place for the weekend. Something like a bonding weekend," laughing at the invitation "she said since all of the Weasley men are so stubborn we will need each other."

"Well they are stubborn that is for sure. That was nice of her to do, I was wrong about her when I first met her, she is definitely perfect for Bill." Pushing the basket across the table, "Go on, take this to the boys, surprise George, I am sure he is thinking of you just as much as you are thinking of him." Looking at Molly with a confused look, "Mother's intuition, I can see it on your face." Hugging her and motioning for her to go.

"Bye Molly, tell Arthur I said hi and thank you too, see you soon." Flooing to the boys flat above the shop, leaving the basket on the table and walking down to the shop, seeing George with his back turned to him in a conversation with Lee. Putting her finger to her lips to keep Lee quiet she sneaks up behind George and grabs is bum with both hands.

"Bloody hell," whipping around, "Who is there?" Looking at a laughing Hermione and now Lee as well, "Gods Hermione don't scare me like that. What are you doing here?"

"Your mum sent lunch for the three of you. I left it upstairs on the table. Why don't you take Fred up and I will stay down here with Lee and help with the shop. It is not too busy right now."

"Oi Freddie, want some lunch? Mum sent it with Hermione." Leaning back down to her ear, "You are a wicked woman, I was only able to stop thinking about you, and now all I can think about is your hands on me." Kissing her check and sliding his hand down her back and grabbing her "Now we are even." Starting to turn for the stairs and coming back "Meenie, just watch out. Alicia was in again today and more persistent than the last time. I told her to get lost but I don't know how much she listened."

"If I see her, I may need to have a conversation with her, I told you. I would let it go as long as she left you alone but she hasn't. So maybe she needs a little girl talk to clarify that you are not on the market anymore."

"Just be careful, I don't know what her problem is. She is crazier than she was ever in school." Putting his arm around her shoulders, "I don't want you getting hurt."

"What did you do to him Hermione; he wasn't able to focus at all this morning?" Fred asks raising his eyebrows at her "I mean, Merlin I thought he was going to blow us up at one point. Couldn't let him work on potions, had to make him do inventory instead, not sure if he even did that right."

"I don't know what you are talking about," blushing at the scrutiny that she is now facing, "I mean why don't you just ask him yourself. He doesn't keep secrets from you."

"But it is fun to make you squirm." Throwing his arm around her shoulders, "Don't you worry; I will get it out of him at lunch. Come on dear brother, let's eat and talk." Fred is dragging George out of the shop with a mad genius like smile.

"Oh great," looking at Lee, "Do you really think George will tell Fred about, well us?"

"Well you said it yourself, they don't keep secrets but it could be worse," Bumping her with his hip, "It could be Molly asking questions about your sex life."

Groaning at that thought, "How have you been Lee? Haven't seen you much lately."

"Oh ok, just trying to get ready to be alone at the shop with Fred. Congrats by the way on your job and somehow getting McGonagall to let him back in the school."

"It was her idea. I really couldn't think of a logical answer against it so why should I tell her no." Walking around the shop looking at some of the new displays, "So Lee, can I ask you something?"

"Sure Hermione, you know you can."

"Why weren't you matched with anyone? I think I have an idea but I wasn't sure."

"The twins know and so do a few others, I am gay. Luckily the ministry isn't desperate enough yet to try and pair up gay wizards with witches in hopes of something happening. Was that what you figured?"

"Yes, I had a few ideas of that our last year all together at Hogwarts but it wasn't my place to ask then. Now that you are going to be even more like family now that I am marrying George I figured what the hell."

"You can always ask me anything Hermione. I won't get offended. I have known you just as long as the twins." Smirking and getting a little closer to her ear, "So now what did you and George do that made him so out of it."

"Um," turning a fierce shade of Gryffindor red, "Well it's not that. I just, well, see…"

"I am joking Hermione, you don't have to tell me, I just wanted to make you uncomfortable for a minute." Smiling at her, "I know you guys are probably taking it slow anyways. He loves you and won't pressure you into anything."

"I know."

Upstairs in the flat that they once shared, Fred is trying to get information out of George, portioning out the Shepard's pie that their mum had sent them, "Come on, and just tell me what's been going on. You never had issues sharing in the past."

"I know but that was just about kissing girls plus normally by the time I got around telling you, it had made it around Hogwarts as to who and where it was."

"I am just kidding; I know you really wouldn't tell me. I just want to know one thing." Chewing on the mouthful of pie he had just shoved in, "Are you happy?"

"Wow, Freddie boy that is almost deep, especially for you." Chewing along with him, "Very, I really couldn't ask for anyone better. Looking back on it all, I just wished I would have figured out that I loved her sooner." Shaking his head, "Not that it would have changed much, she would have still scared the crap out of me and left with Harry and Ron but maybe she would have told me sooner about the Manor or her parents or any of it. Maybe she would have let me help her instead of her suffering."

"How is she doing with it all?" Asking between bites, "I mean it has been a lot to take in all at once."

"She is doing well, as well as one can be." Stretching and groaning, "She had a pretty nasty nightmare the other night though. Mostly, it is like living with Hermione, I mean she is what you see is what you get. I really am lucky and I know it." Picking up his plate and taking it to the sink, "I just want to do right by her."

"You will Georgie, you will." Frowning, "Did you tell her about Spinnet?"

"Yes, I did and let's just hope she never runs into her, otherwise we may be visiting her in Azkaban. Hermione is kind of a jealous person. She went off, almost like watching her in the Common Room again." Laughing at the memory, "Sirius was even a little afraid I think," finishing up and getting ready to head down to the shop to let Lee and Hermione come up and eat.

Hermione is looking at the street outside, "Hey Lee I will be right back, I need to run outside for a minute."

"Ok Mione," walking around the shop straightening things, taking a look out the window to see where Hermione went and his stomach sinks. "Oh blimey this is going to be bad." He is running to the bottom of the steps "Oi boys you may want to get down here!" Lee is yelling up the steps.

Thundering down the steps, Fred is questioning, "What is the matter Lee?" Pointing out the window, "That." Looking out the window they see Hermione talking with Alicia Spinnet.

"This is not going to end well," walking towards the door George is shaking his head.

"Hey George, let Hermione handle it. She is very capable." Fred says grabbing his brother by the arm. "We can watch from the window and if it gets out of hand then you can intervene." Luckily the shop wasn't very busy; all three men stand there with varying shades of uneasiness while watching the scene outside. Hermione has her hand on Alicia's arm and she isn't letting go.

Outside the shop

"Hey Alicia, Can I talk with you?" Leaving the shop and jogging after the young woman that just passed by the window. Looking her up and down as she strides towards her, Alicia was a dark skinned athletic girl, taller than Hermione and slender large dark eyes and dark curly hair to her shoulders. "It will just take a minute."

"What do you want Granger, I got places to be."

"And other people's fiancés to harass?" Coming up next to the girl, "George told me about you stopping by the shop."

"So what, did he tell you that I was his first?" Sticking her nose up in the air like she had one over on Hermione, "You know what they say about your first, don't you?"

"We have no secrets Alicia, he told me." Taking her by the arm, "Here is some news for you and you are going to listen." Pulling the girl over towards the side of a building rather than having this conversation in the middle of the street. "He and I are getting married; you are not going to lure him away. Go play your games somewhere else."

"You don't scare me, you are still the swotty know it all from school, he doesn't love you and he won't. He is just being nice to you because you are a family friend."

"Just a family friend huh? How about this Alicia, he and I have had a very good friendship since my first year, he knows more about me than anyone except Harry of course." Shaking her head for getting off subject, "My point is, he is mine and if I were you I would leave it be."

"What are you going to do about it? I am not going to marry Marcus Flint. There is no way that is happening."

"That's not my problem but if you bother George again. I will be your problem." Getting closer to her and lowering her voice, "Do you really think I will have any issue taking you down?" Straightening up and glaring at the woman in front of her, "I took down death eaters and helped destroy Voldemort. Do you think I can't take you on?" Watching the color drain from her face, "Not to mention, I am the Gryffindor Princess, you think the ministry would be happy to hear my engagement is less that happy because of you or how about a story from Rita Skeeter? She owes me a favor you think she can dig up any skeletons in your closet?"

"You wouldn't?" Looking at Hermione and trying to decide if she would or not.

"Try me." Removing her hand from Alicia's arm, "I love him and he loves me. I will do anything I need to protect those I love. This isn't Hogwarts anymore; you can't play games with other people's lives. If I find out you have come near George again, my first move will be to find you and then to call will be to Rita Skeeter. So my question now is, are you going to leave him alone or am I going to have to prove it to you?"

"I guess I will be going," swallowing hard, "Tell George, bye." Blanching at Hermione's stare, "I am sorry for everything." Turning to walk away, "I hope you guys are really happy."

Walking back into the store and being stared at by all three of them, "What? I kept my temper in check and she is going to be leaving you alone."

"What did you say to her, she looked like she was going to puke?" Lee is asking, looking at Hermione with a look of awe.

"I just reminded her of who I was and what I was capable of." Nodding her head at them, "That is all I am going to say." Taking George's hand, "Now walk me upstairs so I can Floo home and take a nice long bath." Turning back to Lee and Fred, "Bye boys, see you later." Walking towards the stairs hand in hand with George, "I will tell you more later if you want, I just didn't want to get into it here and now." Once inside and away from the other, George is kissing her with all of his might. Pulling her close to him and wrapping his arms around her waist, running his tongue passed her lips, tracing around hers in a passionate dance. Cradling her head in his hand, breaking away to kiss her on the tip of her nose.

"I just couldn't help myself, seeing you stand up for yourself, for me, I don't care what you said, I just know you put her in her place." Hugging her to his body, breathing in her scent and nuzzling her neck.

"I stand up for those I love," Kissing him on the cheek, "Now after all morning with your mum and this afternoon here, I want to go home and have a nice, long, hot bath with lots of bubble." Rubbing her hands up and down his arms, "Plus I think a glass of wine sounds good. Be home for dinner?"

"Sooner if I can," winking at her, "The thought of you in the tub, it going to drive me crazy."

"You need to not think about things like that when you are working. Fred is going to get mad if you keep day dreaming." Laughing at him, "Have you always been so easily distracted?"

"I don't know why I am like this all of a sudden. You just have this effect on me." Pushing her towards the Floo, "If you don't go now, I don't know what I am going to do." Walking towards the door back to the shop, "Bye Meenie." Heading back downstairs, "So do you think she actually drove Alicia off?"

"By the look on her face as she walked away, I would say so." Grinning at Fred and George, Lee is continuing "I know I wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of her wand, especially if it is something she truly cares about and for whatever reason it is, she loves you."

"Why don't you go home George, it has been a slow day plus she just drove your stalker off. Just whatever you do, make sure you come back tomorrow with a clear head. You are going to be of no use to us for the rest of the day, you are just going to be thinking about her in the tub."

"What makes you say that?"

"You haven't been able to concentrate all day and then she says she is going to go home and take a bath. Remember I am your twin, I know all you are thinking about is her in a bubble bath so you are going to be useless."

"You don't have to tell me twice," Grinning like the cat that ate the canary, walking towards the stairs "See you two tomorrow."

"Oi George," waiting for him to turn around, Fred beaming at his twin "Tell Hermione whatever she said to Alicia if it keeps her away, she is bloody brilliant."

"Trust me, I don't think I have to worry about her again but I will pass it along to her." Striding out before anyone else can stop him taking the stairs two at a time and jogging into the Floo. Stepping out at home, he can hear the water running in the tub, walking through the flat and down the hallway, he sees her clothes for the day thrown in the laundry and the door to the bathroom is opened. Walking into the bathroom and leaning against the door frame, watching her as she is quietly leaned back and relaxing in the tub.

"I know you are back there George."

"Well I was just wondering if there was room in the tub for me." Walking into the bathroom and looking down at her, "We can relax together and talk."

"Talking? That's not what you have been thinking about all day. Not from the way you talked earlier."

"I know but I also just like spending time with you, you know that, I will just sit out here and talk with you." Taking her hand, "I know we have gotten more intimate with our relationship recently but I will not pressure you for anything and plus I want to wait til we are married as well before we have sex. But that doesn't mean I won't think about you and your body. So yes, I was day dreaming about you earlier. Does that make you feel better?"

"It does and you can get in, I just sometime feel awkward around you still. It is hard to figure out all of these feelings." Closing her eyes and leaning her head back against the tub, "Come on get it but first fill up my wine glass please, I have to get over my awkwardness."

Dropping a kiss on her forehead before walking to fill up her glass, "Be right back." Walking to the kitchen and filling up her glass, grabbing ale for himself. She started keeping this specific one for him, he mentioned that he really enjoyed it and that it would be nice to have around and that same day she went out and got it for him. After entering the bathroom he hands her the glass and sets his down on the ledge on the opposite end of the tub. "Is there a seat on both ends of the tub?"

"Yes, I like it because then I can prop my legs up when in the tub and reading. This way I can stay completely submerged but not slide down."

Stripping his shirt and jeans off, looking at her while she is studying him, hooking his fingers in the waist of his boxers and lower then as well. Sitting up some to make sure he can get in, blushing as she watches him enter the tub. Settling into a comfortable position, sliding a little lower into the water, he is coverage to below is pectoral muscles, leaving his toned upper body to be admired. Raising her feet to his lap, she places one foot flat on his thigh and the other on the edge of the tub, resting her ankle on the edge. Taking the foot from his thigh, starting to rub a circular pattern across the sole of her foot, he is asking very quietly "Are you happy?"

"Why wouldn't I be?"

"I just wanted to know, did you have a good chat with mum?"

"Yes, I always do. She told me a story I never knew. Did you know, you mum and dad went and visited mine?" Shaking his head no, "They went one year shortly after we left, they wanted to explain to them, me and how much magic meant to mean and what kind of witch I was." Sighing at his ministrations on her sore foot, "She said that they explained to them what I was doing by helping Harry and Ron. How much you all loved me." Smiling contentedly, "Shortly after their visit my mum's letters changed, they became almost understanding, almost loving again. Like she understood a little more, I never questioned it; I didn't want to break whatever had been fixed."

"I am glad. I know that it always bothered you how it seemed like they didn't want to know."

"I am just glad maybe they understood a little more than I gave them credit for. My only regret was that I couldn't tell them about the end, I mean, I think they would have been proud of me."

"You can't hang on to any regrets babe," putting her foot back in the water and taking the other off the side of the tub, "it is in the past and there is nothing you can do about it."

"Thanks love," humming at the feeling of his fingers working on her foot, "That feels great," stretching out her other leg pressing her foot against his stomach then pulling it back and putting it back on his thigh. "So how was your day at the shop?"

"Good, we were slow enough that we were able to get inventory done, regardless of what Fred said. He was able to get a decent amount of potions done and Lee reorganized the shop, moving some faster moving products in to larger display areas." Rolling his eyes, "And you know about Alicia. So, I have to ask, what did you say to her? I mean she looked like she wanted to bolt."

"I basically told her you were mine that she needed to back off." Smuggly smiling at him, "I also reminded her that if she continued to give you problems that I took down death eaters and helped destroy Voldemort and that I would have no problem taking her down."

Barking out a laugh at her, "No wonder she looked like you were going to hex her, she probably thought you were going to. At least you didn't remind her you were the Gryffindor Princess too."

"Well, I might have implied that I would go to the ministry and since I was the Gryffindor Princess they might not like hearing that my fiancé was getting a hard time from someone." Dropping her voice to a whisper, "I also might have threatened to have Rita Skeeter look into her."

Throwing his head back and laughing, dropping her foot into the water. "You have got to be kidding. You didn't? You amaze me every day."

"I did what I had to," shaking her head at him, "You know I would never actually do that, but she doesn't. I love you and I wanted to get across to her that I didn't like it when people messed with my family." Looking at him so tenderly, "I do love you and I don't want you to forget that."

Moving towards her, kissing her softly, "I know babe, don't ever question how much I love you." Kissing her again then kissing her nose, her cheek left and the right, then lastly her forehead. Slowly moving back from her, leaning back against the tub, "So let's talk about something a little happier."

"Well, how long have you known about Lee? I asked him today why he wasn't paired with a witch. I had thoughts your last year at Hogwarts but I didn't want to say anything."

"You read everyone better than you think, he told us that year, towards the end of the year. As long as he is happy we could care less." Blushing "That night when we all went out, I even got jealous of him, because when you two were dancing I didn't like how low his hands were. Even though I knew he wasn't interested in you."

"What to hear something funny," leaning over to grab her wine glass, "Fourth year, I had a small crush on him, if Viktor hadn't asked me when he did to go to the Yule Ball I was going to ask Lee." Shrugging her shoulders at his laughing, "There were worse guys to have a crush on."

"Ohhhh, that's funny! I always figured you for liking Seamus or even Dean."

"I wanted someone who could keep up with me; Seamus was sweet but a horrible student. Dean was a great student and really sweet but after Ginny dated him I didn't want to even think about it."

"I guess I can understand that," screwing his face up, like he had just bitten into a lemon, "I can't believe I am going to ask this but I have to know."

"No I never fancied Ron." Locking his gaze, "You don't have to worry about that. Although he fancied me, I always thought of him as my brother. I spent so much time with him and Harry there was never a chance for me to like either of them. I saw all of their flaws."

"How did you know I was going to ask?"

"I figured it would come up sooner or later. I mean with all of the gossip around the school and also with how much your mum wanted us together. She and I talked about that too. I talked about a lot with her today."

"Well she considers you a daughter, even if you weren't marrying into the family." Drinking a sip from his glass, "She is concerned about you though. She did voice that too me. She is worried you are not eating and that you aren't taking care of yourself." Leaning over to set his glass on the floor, "She has been concerned about that since the end of the war, you three came home so thin and the boys have put some weight on but you haven't. I know you like to run and that you work out but she worries, it is in mum's nature."

"She and I talked about that too." Taking a big gulp of her wine, "I guess this is as good of a time as any." She is holding up her hand to stop the question that was forming on his lips, "I told you about the Manor, well I have been seeing a Medi-Witch since the end of the war, due to over exposure to the Cruciatus curse, I will have a hard time ever gaining weight. Your mum confronted me today about it, she said she knew what some of the side effects can be and that is one of them. But since the war, I have put on almost a stone. For me that is extraordinary, I get a potion every month when I see her that is supposed to help me gain weight and increase my appetite."

"There are worse things, babe, just means, I will have to make sure you always eat your dessert." Winking at her, noticing her grimace, "But that isn't all of it, is it? I can tell by your face. What is it?"

"Children." Looking anywhere but at George, knowing how much family means to him, "They don't know if I will be able to have children. Most witches or wizards that Bellatrix had tortured have not survived their sanity intact. In fact, they think I have had the most exposure of anyone to survive." Taking another drink and starting to pick at her fingers, "I am kind of like a test case. Still after everything I am a freak."

"Don't talk like that," pulling her to him, "Come here." Turning her, so she is leaning against his chest, "If we are meant to have kids, we will have kids when we are ready, if not, we will spoil all of our nieces and nephews absolutely rotten." Kissing her neck, "As long as we are together, we can face anything," Stretching his legs out so she is lying back to his chest, her legs against his legs "You are not a freak. You are the brightest witch of our age and one hell of a fighter too." Lacing his fingers through hers and wrapping his arms around her, holding her with his and her arms.

"I am sorry."

"Nothing for you to be sorry about, we all have scars. We have talked about this, nothing you can say will change the way I feel about you and about us getting married and having a life together."

"Thank you. That means the world to me," Snuggling back into him, "Are you comfortable? I am not squashing you?"

"I am quite comfortable, do you dare move." Nuzzling her neck, "So what do you plan on doing tomorrow?"

"Might drop in and Sirius, he sent an owl that he wanted to talk to me about some of the wedding stuff. I am so glad he agreed to walk me down the aisle and more or less playing the role of my dad."

"He loves you, just like he loves Harry." Lacing his fingers in hers and lying their arms on the edge of the tub, "I forgot to tell you, I got an owl from Oli, the matches for the season have been cancelled. The few remaining teams have decided that they do not really have enough people to field teams and such."

"Sorry to hear that, I know you love playing, I wish I could see you play."

"Guess you will have to just wait for school, you will have to come and cheer the teams on."

"Never missed a match while in school probably won't now that I am a professor." Sighing with a smile, "Told your mum about you getting a job at Hogwarts, she was shocked to say the least but very happy for you."

"So burning question, been thinking about this. Completely off subject." Taking his hand and running his finger around her perky little nipple, fingering the barbell, "What possessed you to do this?"

"I had thought about it at one time but it was so unlike me and then I decided why not I could always take them out. Then when I ran into Charlie at Hogwarts I knew I could convince him to go with me."

"Please tell me he didn't watch."

"No he didn't, why would that matter?

"Well, not to sound horribly controlling but I don't want anyone else seeing how wonderful you look without your clothes on." Stroking her and kissing her neck, "I may not be as jealous as you," laughing at her snort, "But I can be a little jealous."

"Well, then you would love that the girl who helped me did ask me out. Wanted me to meet her to get a drink sometime and was quite disappointed when I told her I was engaged."

"Well, that is kind of hot. I mean, that is a big compliment to you. Don't you think?"

"Made my day, that's for sure, Charlie thought it was hilarious," Sitting up turning around to capture his lips for a quick kiss, "I am ready to get out, I am getting hungry. How about you?"

"Of course, I can always eat." Kissing her again, "But don't mind me if I watch the view as you get out." Standing in front of him, he is stroking her stomach, "Gods you are so beautiful."

Rubbing her hands over his head and through his hair, "You are too sweet, I know I am not all that great to look at but thank you." Stepping out of the tub and wrapping a towel around herself, seeing the look of confusion on his face. "What?"

"You are really balmy some days, you know that right?" Stepping out of the tub, wrapping a towel around his waist, coming up behind her, turning her to look in the mirror, "I will make you believe this if I have to tell you this every day. Look at your face," stroking his fingertips down the side of her face, "Big expressionful chocolate eyes, soft lush lips, high cheekbones and that is just your face. You have a small waist that my arms wrap so easily around," hugging her to him "perky gorgeous breasts and hmm finally my favorite part of you, your legs and bum. For your height, your legs seem to go on forever and your bum is nice and round," turning her around and sliding his hands down her back, grabbing her bum, "fits in my palms so wonderfully. I love every inch of you and don't you forget it." Kissing her neck, nipping at her shoulder, "I love your body and I will love every inch of it."

"George.."

"Shush, just enjoy the moment, I won't listen to you disparage yourself. So get dried off and let's make dinner together. Clothes are completely optional in my mind." Smiling at him, her happiness doesn't quite reach to her eyes, he can tell she wants to fight him on it but she decided against it.

"Thank you." Rubbing her hand up his chest and caressing his face, turning his head into her palm to kiss it. After dressing, they spend the evening eating the dinner that they fixed together. Watching a movie cuddled up on the couch, slowly she is falling asleep until he hears her quiet snore. Lifting her quietly from the couch and taking her to bed, tucking her in and undressing and getting in bed with her. Pulling her to him and kissing her head, "Night my beautiful witch."

I hope that you enjoyed the chapter. I figure I will have one more chapter before the girls weekend.