Hello, my lovely readers! It's good to be back! I've noticed, rather guiltily, that I never live up to my promise regarding the updates. So I'm not gonna say anything this time :X

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The night breeze greeted Harry like an old friend as he stepped inside the deserted courtyard. Around him, he could hear the faint yet audible humming of music, the rustling leaves in the wind and the cries of nightly creatures. The sky was clear; its stars flickering like candles, its Moon full and bright. If it weren't for the worry in his heart, Harry would have stopped and basked in the peaceful silence only Mother Nature could give him.

But Hermione was still missing. He couldn't find her anywhere in the castle, which could only mean she was outside.

Staying on his toes, Harry crossed the empty courtyard, straining his ears to pick a sound out of the ordinary while his eyes searched for her.

And then he heard it. Someone was crying.

He took a few more steps – and saw her. Her vivid colours against the muted shades of the environment were easy to catch. She was sitting on one of the stone benches cornering the area, her body illuminated by the moonlight. He could see her face buried in her hands. Note her trembling shoulders. Hear her little sniffles.

Harry closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Hermione was obviously upset right now, which meant he had to stay calm and collected no matter what. Getting angry was out of the question.

Suddenly feeling resolute, he opened his eyes and went to join her.


With her elbows on her knees and her face in her hands, Hermione Granger felt like the stupidest person on the planet. In just a matter of hours, she had been led on, manipulated, used, and then tossed aside like a crumbled piece of paper. And she deserved it. A part of her knew Pansy's words had stung because they were true. Completely factual. Why was it that she, the brightest student in class and a critical thinker in difficult times, got fooled by a boy she should have never trusted in a million years? Was she that desperate and hungry for a relationship? Why had she promised to never get tricked by the cunning Slytherin mind but ended up doing just that? Did it take a charming boy to make her do anyone's bidding, regardless of his background?

Well, one thing was for certain. She had learned a crucial lesson that night.

One does reap what one sows.

But how could that reduce the aching in her chest?

Letting a shaky sigh escape her lips, she examined her unscathed hands. At least the waterproof make-up had worked. Who knew it could be useful for entirely different reasons?

But…what now? Should she return to the dance? That wasn't happening. She didn't think she could bear seeing Theodore's wretched face again. Now that she was thinking about it, a slap wasn't enough. She should have jinxed him.

Well, what's done is done.

Hermione had to agree on that. She straightened up – and heard something among the night's hollers. Approaching footsteps.

But no sooner had she whipped her head around when a voice called from the darkness. "Hey."

It was Harry. Startled, Hermione gaped at him. Had he seen her leave? Or watched the entire fight with Theodore? Or was just overwhelmed and bored from the party and came outside to take a breather but spotted her here? Of course, none of that mattered. She was overthinking.

She decided she should start the bizarre situation off amiably, but somehow, she said, "What are you doing here?"

"I guess the better question is – what are you doing here?" he replied casually, sitting beside her.

"Oh…me?" Hermione gave an empty laugh. For some reason, she didn't want to tell Harry anything. "I just wanted to take a break. Too many people in there." She gestured her head towards the castle. "I couldn't breathe."

Harry raised an eyebrow at her. Why was she lying to him? Did she fear he would scold her for being right all along?

"Huh, that's funny," he said, observing how she was avoiding his eyes, "I could have sworn I saw you slap Theodore and leave the party…"

So, he had seen her. Hermione took a deep breath and looked away from him. No way was she going to watch Harry turn smug. She didn't want to hear any lectures nor have him say, "I told you so."

But he did something else entirely. He reached forward and took her hand.

"Look, Hermione." He sighed. "I'm not going to blame you or anything, okay? I mean…Theodore is bad as Malfoy when it comes to jerks, so what else could you expect from him? And none of this is your fault because you genuinely had good intentions. And well…" He trailed off, looking at their entwined hands. "Think about it like this…his secret is out. He can't hurt you anymore."

Something – relief, probably – passed through Hermione's brain, making her relax. Harry didn't hold her accountable. He wasn't mad at her, but then again, why should he? None of this was her fault. He was right. Completely right.

She wanted to turn the whole thing into a joke. Theodore didn't deserve her tears. He didn't deserve her leaving the party and isolating herself. Heck, she shouldn't even care about him or whatever he does. The entire ordeal was supposed to be funny. A situation that created laughter. Not sadness. Not anger.

Yes, that was it. Mustering a smile, Hermione opened her mouth – and burst into tears, again.

So much for being strong.

Harry took a deep breath and scooted near Hermione to drape his arm over her shaking shoulders.

"It's okay. You're okay," he whispered to make her feel better.

"He used me, Harry," Hermione said, like a small child. "He used me."

"I know…"

"He made me look stupid in front of that…that hag, Pansy. I hate her! I hate her so much!" she shouted in a fit of rage and sobs. In fact, Hermione believed she shouldn't have just slapped Theodore. She should have mutilated Pansy, too.

"I'm sorry." She suddenly started apologising, hiding her face in his shoulder. "I'm so sorry, Harry. I didn't listen to you! I just…I was just being too smart for my own good again. I'm sorry."

Her words seemed…familiar. Until Harry remembered – Cho had said something along the same lines.

That Mudblood is too clever for her own good!

But she was wrong. Hermione was clever, but for noble reasons. For reasons that helped others out in one way or another, not out of utter spite. And…she was a good person. A good person with a good heart. Harry believed that fully…

…or was she a good person just for him?

He sighed and smoothed her hair as she composed herself. His hand was still tightly clutching hers. He was amazed by how warm she was. So warm, in fact, that he could no longer feel the cold that was obviously surrounding them.

"Hermione, don't be sorry, okay?" he spoke into her hair. "Like I said, none of this is your fault. And let's be honest, I'm not exactly innocent here."

"What are you talking about?"

"I beat up Theodore…"

At this, Hermione straightened up, her eyes bloodshot and puffy. "He deserved it!"

"And created scenes in the library and the entrance hall."

"That was just the wrong place, the wrong time."

"And I didn't listen to you, either." Harry finished, smiling. "So yeah, I'm not decent. But you don't see me moping and crying around, d'you?"

Before she could stop herself, Hermione laughed. Really laughed. Harry was mesmerised by how fast the joy changed her face, how her features lifted up. Without thinking, he found himself reaching forward and gently wiping her tears. For some reason, that surprised Hermione, as she stared at him with her glossy eyes, shining under the Moon's light shadow.

The moment had, somehow, turned awkward. Harry spoke up to fill the silence. "Just…don't cry, Hermione. Not over him."

In the meantime, Harry absolutely had no idea what was going on in Hermione's head. He might have thought she was mulling over Theodore, but at that moment, she was only thinking about him. She could sense that feeling again – like she was flying through the air – a feeling that only came to be when Harry was with her. When he was looking at her like he was doing right now. When every bit of his touch sent shivers all over her body. When it seemed possible that they could cross their limits and make her wish come true.

Despite herself, Hermione smiled again.

She had gotten him alone at last…

"You're right. I shouldn't," she said, wiping the last of her tears away. "I know it's wrong, but…I wish I could have done more than just slap him."

Her comment made Harry laugh. "Oh, you don't need to worry about that."

"Why not?"

"Cause I jinxed him," he declared, suddenly proud, "With that spell we learned last year. The one that Mood – I mean, Crouch, used to make that spider dance like crazy, remember?"

Hermione's mouth dropped open. "You mean the Tarantallegra charm?"

"Yep."

"Did anybody see you?"

"No. At least I don't think anyone did." Harry smirked at her. "But I cursed him. In front of the entire Great Hall. Seriously, it was a riot!"

And Hermione could imagine it. Suddenly, she was laughing loudly as she pictured a cursed Theodore embarrassing himself and Pansy as people around them laughed. It was as good as any revenge, and Harry had taken it for her.

"Oh, I wish I could have seen it!" she said, still laughing.

Harry was laughing, too. "Well, he turned into a sight for sore eyes. I think even Snape had cracked a smile."

"And Pansy?"

"I swear I've never seen her so bloody red."

"Serves her right!" Hermione exclaimed, pressing her hand to her mouth to stifle her giggles. Harry saw this, and – unconsciously – found himself saying.

"No, don't do that. I like your laughter."

Instantly, Hermione turned frozen at his words. Did he just say that?

Harry's neck was getting hotter at an alarming rate. "I-I mean…I like hearing your laugh after watching you cry, y'know? You don't need to hide it! You should laugh as much as you can…" His heart had started pounding furiously. He could feel jitters everywhere. What was going on?

Without realising it, Hermione had gained an overwhelmed smile when she saw Harry turn red. She could count the number of times she had seen him blush on her fingers. But this was special. He was blushing in her company for something he had said to her. And that made her blush, too. Made her heart grow in size.

But instead of averting her eyes, she did something else. She reached forward and wrapped him in a bear hug.

"Thank you, Harry," she said, and she meant it. Hogwarts seemed better with him around. The night had turned better because of him. Her life was tolerable because he was here. Every part of her declared that he was her happy source, and they were right. Basking in his homely scent, which was somehow messing with her nerves, she continued, "Thank you so much. You make me feel like the luckiest girl alive."

Um, where did that come from?

"I mean…you care about me so much," she corrected herself, hiding her face in his shoulder so he couldn't see her turn scarlet, "Honestly, it feels amazing. So, thank you."

Meanwhile, Harry sighed again. No, Hermione was wrong. She shouldn't feel like that with him. He had hurt her more times than he could count. Stayed with the girl who insulted her at every possible chance. Let Ron manhandle her because he didn't think it was his business to pry. So really, how was he looking out for her? Like the numerous times he had told himself he was? Was that just assurance?

On the other hand, he didn't think Hermione knew how much he had to make up to her. And no matter what he did, he just couldn't stop owing her.

But he didn't want to say that out loud as it would evidently lead to a fight, and right now, enclosed in her arms as the night moved around them, he wanted the silence to consume them. Gently and cautiously, he hugged her back, feeling the ruffles of her dress and the curls of hair, her warmth and aura dominating him from all around. He wished he could freeze time, right here, at this very moment, with just the two of them under the velvety sheet of the night sky. He wondered if that was possible.

In the meantime, Hermione was wondering. Harry had grown quiet. Had she offended him somehow?

"Are you…okay?" she tentatively asked.

"Yeah, yeah. I'm fine. I was just…thinking."

"About what?"

"Nothing special." He ran his fingers through her ringlets. "I like your hair."

Hermione giggled softly. Harry was being bold today.

"Oh, do you?"

"Yeah, I mean…" He sighed. Why was he making such a fool of himself? It was like he had lost control over his words. "I like the – the curls. They look…nice."

"Thank you." Hermione chuckled. She was glad she had left her hair as it was.

Harry bit his lip, turning red all over again. How could situations turn awkward so quickly?

Thankfully, Hermione pulled back from the hug. He could see she was blushing, too, making him smile.

She smiled back – but her bravery was ebbing away, which was, obviously, unfortunate. It was the perfect, and she meant the perfect time to tell him about her feelings. Harry was such a mastermind. He could trick her into thinking he might like her back.

But that still remained to be seen.

"I'm sorry, though." She sighed. "You know, for making you leave the party. Cho must be furious."

Harry sighed, too. "Yeah…she is furious."

"You should go back. Don't keep her waiting." She beamed at him. "Besides, I feel great now. I'll go with you."

"Oh, no. It's all right." He shook his head. "Cho wouldn't be waiting for me."

"Why not?"

"Because I broke up with her."

Hermione stared at him, speechless. But Harry wasn't afraid of what she might think. In fact, he felt relieved he had told her at last.

"When…when did this happen?"

"Right after you left." He shrugged like it was no big deal. "It was, er…"

But Hermione stopped him. "You don't have to tell me if it's making you uncomfortable."

"No, I want to tell you. You were right about her, after all." He took a deep breath and told her everything. Even the part about how he had ended things with Cho because she had blatantly insulted Hermione and how he couldn't tolerate that.

In return, Hermione was astonished. Cho and Harry split up? Because she had called her a Mudblood? But before she could feel any happiness, a more pressing thought befell her mind.

"Oh, she must be so furious. What if she…broke the number one rule of DA and snitched on us?"

Harry's green eyes shone brilliantly. "Can she do that?"

Hermione bit her lip. "To take revenge on you, on us, she can…but she'd regret it. I'd enchanted the contract, remember? She'd be really sorry."

"But why would she do it? Isn't she finding these classes useful?"

"Oh, trust me, Harry. You can't be too sure with this girl."

"That's true." He agreed. "I wonder what might happen if Umbridge discovered the club?"

Hermione let out a nervous laugh. "I don't want to think about it."

And she didn't. It was horrifying. Now that the chances of Cho snitching on them were plausible, Hermione knew what would happen if Umbridge caught them. They'd be expelled. Their wands would be snapped, and they'd spend the rest of their lives trying to find work. Plus, they'd be easy targets for Voldemort.

"What we're doing is so risky," she told Harry, "But I guess that's what makes it thrilling."

"Yep, we're defying Umbridge." He smiled a little. "All of us."

Hermione smiled back, suddenly feeling shy.

"I'm sorry for ruining your night like this."

"Nothing's ruined."

"You don't feel bad after breaking up with Cho?"

"Why should I? She's a bloody nuisance." Harry leaned back against the bench, staring at the sky. "In fact, it's better being out here with you."

Hermione suppressed a smile. Stop playing with me like that!

At that exact moment, faint music began to drift from the castle's giant windows. Another, and probably the last dance of the night, was starting.

Suddenly, Harry had a brilliant idea.

"Like I'd said, the night's not ruined." He grinned at Hermione. "In fact, it hasn't even started yet!"

Confused, she looked at him. "What?"

"Yeah." He said, then did the unthinkable.

He stood up and offered his hand to her.

"May I have this dance, my lady?" He mimicked the gentlemen on Aunt Petunia's shows in the politest tone he could muster.

To her surprise, Hermione burst out laughing. Maybe it was his silly gesture. Or the fact he wanted to dance with her. But she suddenly found the situation funny.

"You want to dance with me?" she tittered.

"Yes! You're better than all the girls here." He waved his awaiting hand. "Now, come on!"

"Okay…" she said, trying hard not to blush, as she accepted his hand and let him pull her to her feet.

He led them into a little clearing just a few feet away. Here, the music was more audible, and they had plenty of space.

"Just so you know, I'm a terrible dancer," Harry said a tad nervously as he faced Hermione on their private little dance floor. "I may have ruptured Cho's foot today."

Hermione laughed at his joke. "Oh, don't worry. We're on the same boat here."

"No, but seriously, I'm very, very bad at this," Harry warned her.

"It's okay. I'll guide you."

Feeling daring, she reached for his hand and placed it gently on her waist. "Hold me here. Just don't topple me over!"

"I know where to hold you," Harry rolled his eyes sarcastically.

"Okay, professor," Hermione chuckled and gently placed her own hand on his shoulder. "Let's just keep it easy and simple. No tricky steps, okay? I swear I'm still dizzy from the way Theodore kept spinning me around like a top."

"If I don't get dizzy myself, sure." Harry smiled wistfully, his other hand intertwining its fingers with her own. "Promise you won't hate me if I smash your foot?"

"I promise." Hermione giggled, rolling her eyes. Him and his stupid sense of humour…

Inside the castle, the enchanted instruments picked up new notes and flowed into something sweet and light. Their melodies passed the giant windows of the Great Hall and reached the two's special spot, flooding their ears with music and making their bodies move in a delicate rhythm.

Despite the humour-filled evening, both of them were very nervous. He hoped he wasn't gripping her too tightly. She hoped he couldn't notice how sweaty her hand had become. But this nervousness couldn't meddle with the utter peace they were somehow feeling in each other's grasp. Like the night was finally approaching its actual end.

At this point, both of them had turned into experts at masking their emotions. They had been attempting to dance for the past few seconds – and were failing badly. But instead of feeling terrible, they found it absolutely hilarious. Hermione couldn't control her laughter when she almost tripped over because of the cursed shoes as Harry steered her around in the courtyard. And he couldn't handle his smiles because of her pure joy. He was also starting to observe how different she was from Cho. For one thing, Hermione didn't frown or purse her lips when Harry accidentally stepped on her foot and just smiled at him and patted his shoulder reassuringly instead. That made him feel less awful – and more determined to make this dance perfect, especially since he had asked for it.

But little did he know that even with his poor efforts and horrible dancing skills, this was possibly the best night of her life. One part of her suspected it was all just a dream. An illusion. That she would wake up any second, and this beautiful moment would disappear right before her eyes. But one part of her urged her to believe it. To believe that yes, she was really dancing, away from the catastrophic party, in a private area with the boy she had wanted all her life.

And she just couldn't help but notice how nice he felt. Like home. Like a warm place with the most comfortable environment. On the contrary, Theodore's arms had felt alien. Harry's hit the right spot.

Who knew dreams could turn into reality?

Ignoring the huge swarm of the wretched butterflies, Hermione smiled at Harry, noting how he was trying so hard to avoid making a wrong step. Her fingers delved into the spaces between his own as she spoke up.

"You can spin me around."

Harry shook his head. "But you hate it."

"Because Theodore was the one doing it." Hermione clarified. "I'm sure you won't be as bad as him."

"You mean good?" He grinned.

"Bad." She laughed. "Honestly? He's such a show-off."

"Good riddance, then?"

"Yes." She sighed. "Good riddance."

But she still braced herself when he finally did, her dress opening up beneath her like a blooming rose. Instead of feeling dizzy, she felt light, so she was giggling when he stopped spinning her around and pulled her closer to himself again.

"What's so funny?"

"Nothing." She shook her head, still laughing. "Just that this is somehow the most fun I've had like…ever."

"Yeah, well." He dropped his eyes. "This is a million times better than with all those couples…"

"Tell me about it." She smiled, speaking straight out of her heart. She was thankful a fast song was playing because she was dangerously close to melting under his smouldering gaze.

Unfortunately, the stars didn't listen to her as the next second, the music plunged into low, haunting tones. The kind of song meant only for couples. For two people who just want to get lost in each other's eyes.

So Hermione unfastened her fingers from Harry's hand, thinking he would find the circumstance uncomfortable. But he, noting her movement, clasped her hand even tighter, not letting her increase the distance between them.

"It's okay," she assured him, "We don't have to dance to this –"

"No, it's fine." He smiled lightly. "Unless you don't want to?"

"Oh, no," she said without thinking, "Of course not."

"Okay…" He dropped her hand and held her waist gently. In return, she took a deep breath and laced her arms around his neck.

And just like that, Hermione found herself living her dream. With only the Moon keeping them company, the two had their private little slow dance, their auras mixing and matching. She observed how he had the habit of staring directly into her eyes, and that made it harder to return his unbroken gaze.

Harry was also finding this habit weird, but he just couldn't stop looking at Hermione. His eyes had grown accustomed to etching her features in her mind, noting her lips, her make-up that somehow made her brown irises turn almost golden, the creeping blush on her face, her hair that tumbled down her shoulders in messy ringlets and curls, her dress that suited her so incredibly. Normally, he always behaved odd and stupid around girls, but Hermione? She was different. She was different to him. She knew his quirks, his weaknesses, his Achilles heel. She could tell when he was sad or brooding. She understood him, inside and out, which was why he knew she would never hate him no matter how strange he became.

Just like how he would never hate her.

It was crazy how fast things could change. One moment, he was alone in the entrance hall, revisiting the utmost rage, frustration, and jealousy he felt when he saw her dancing with that git. And the next moment, she was here, safe in his arms, dancing with him, her warmth circulating around him, exactly like he wanted.

He wished he could stop time from moving.

"Hey," he suddenly broke the ice, "Did anyone tell you how beautiful you look?"

His question caught her by surprise. "No."

"Not even Theodore?"

"He did, but that doesn't count." Hermione smiled shyly. Theodore's compliment was as good as saying nothing.

"Really?" Harry raised his eyebrow. "I'd say he's a mad fool because you look…lovely."

There it was – the falling sensation again. Hermione shrugged, trying to hide how pleased she was to hear this. "You're just saying that to make me feel better."

"No, I'm not." Harry shook his head, amazed at his courage but also not wanting to make things weird. "You look beautiful."

Hermione showed a tender smile. She suddenly wanted to tease him.

"So, I don't look dishevelled?"

"Of course not. Why would you?" he said, feeling his ears grow hot. "I mean…it's the dress. Your dress…looks splendid. I like it."

Well, I bought it because of you. "Thanks."

"I think it's the colour," he went on, "Red looks good on you. It's my favourite colour."

"I know," she replied, realising too late what that could mean. Blushing madly, she hurried to correct herself. "It's – it's my favourite colour, too. Coincidence, huh?"

"Seems like it…"

"Well, I can say the same for you," she smirked, "Mr. Charming."

He laughed. "No charms here, I guarantee you." His smile faded as he turned sombre. "And…uh…I wanted to ask you something."

"Hm?"

"D'you know why you were able to…beat Voldemort in taking over my mind?"

Ever since it had happened, the question was bothering Harry a lot. How come Hermione's efforts effectively subdued Voldemort when even Dumbledore couldn't do that? What made her so special? Did she use a trick? If so, then Harry wanted to know what it was. It could just be the thing to save his life.

"I'm just asking because it's so surreal," he explained, "Y'know…because Dumbledore thinks Occlumency is my only chance here, and that's proving to be quite a handful, so…"

In reply, Hermione traced the lapels of his dress robes, contemplating the question. Just like him, she had also wondered why she was able to bring him out of Voldemort's trance and without an ounce of encouraging Occlumency. But after nights of pondering over the matter, she'd understood the situation.

She remembered how Harry had told her the protection of his mother's love had saved him from the attack that night. And how she had read somewhere that pure essence, like sheer innocence and love, could carry the deadliest curses and fiercest shields. Just as a slain unicorn could torment the slayer, displayed love could protect the victim. So it was easy to put the pieces together and know that Hermione's love for Harry, unfiltered and completely ingenuous, was what made Voldemort retreat and made Harry get his bearings back.

The only problem? How could she begin to tell him all this?

"It sounds complicated, yes," she spoke up, her gaze on his Adam's apple instead of his eyes. "I've thought about it and…I guess it's because I care. I –" She took a deep breath, the memory still fresh in her mind. "I was just so scared for you, Harry. Scared and – and terrified because he was so close to overriding you. And who knows what could have happened if he had succeeded? Your plan to kill Dumbledore would have failed, but you could have hurt someone. You could have hurt me, even, and then live with the regret. I just…" She sighed. "The only thing I cared about was getting you back. For a moment, I was afraid I'd lose you…"

There. She had said it. And right in front of him, too. Even if she had hidden the real thing.

Complete silence followed her words. Harry seemed to be thinking over what she had just told him.

"That's…strange," he spoke up.

"Not really." Hermione shrugged, suddenly finding it hard to look at him. "I mean…Voldemort is so loathsome; genuine care throwing him off guard isn't a surprise."

"Yeah, I think so," said Harry, remembering how his mother had once saved him, too. But that was pure mother love. Could Hermione's partiality towards him come close, if not equate to, that kind of love?

For some reason, that made him smile.

"So, what I think you're saying is that I'd need you near me at all times?"

Hermione couldn't help but laugh. "I guess so."

"Well…" Harry sighed, then winked at her. "I'm not complaining."

She blushed at that. How could she not?

"Now that you're not with Cho anymore," she humoured him, "I don't think that'd be difficult."

"Might as well throw Theodore in the mix, too." Harry grinned. "I can't stand that git."

"I can tell."

A peaceful silence returned after that as they swayed to the barely audible music. Harry stared at his partner before blurting out –

"I missed you, Hermione."

She was taken aback. "What?"

Suddenly, words were spilling out from him with no way of stopping.

"I missed you. So much. I...I dunno, but seeing you build a more...what can I say...profound connection with Nott, y'know, like the one you share with me, made me so...so angry."

"A profound connection?"

"Yes, and don't deny that, Hermione. I could see it on your face. The way you were staring at him like he was a bloody miracle or something –"

"So, you were watching me?" Hermione whispered, mesmerised by his evident anger.

Harry sighed, frustrated yet a bit embarrassed. "Of course! What else could you expect me to do? You were there with a Slytherin! Someone who could easily hurt you, and then seeing you actually being happy in his company, I...I dunno. That made me angry. And sad. I became afraid. I – I couldn't enjoy the dance. Not when I kept seeing you with him and dreading what might happen if he became a part of your life. Would you abandon me? Not be there by my side when I need you with my goddamn weak mind? And forget about Occlumency. I just can't..."

On and on he went, and all through his blabber, Hermione gaped at him. Yes, he was right. She was starting to fancy Theodore, but she got what she deserved, didn't she?

But abandoning Harry to get with Theodore? No, that was out of the question.

"Hey, hey," she interrupted him, clutching his shoulders. "All of that doesn't matter, now does it? I'm here. With you. And I'm never trusting anyone from Slytherin again."

"But what if something happened, Hermione?" Harry frowned. "Would you always be there to save me?"

Would I?

Her response turned frozen on her lips. For a moment, she just gazed at him. At some point in his monologue, Harry had pulled her closer to himself, so now they were almost nose-to-nose. Hermione couldn't help but notice how beautiful his eyes looked from this proximity.

Without thinking, she touched his cheek ever-so-slightly with her fingers. He convulsed a little at the contact, but she ignored it.

"Oh Harry, why are you so doubtful about this?" she said, "Do you really think I'd let some boy come between us? Severe this bond? Risk your life?"

"No, but I...sometimes I worry." Harry sighed. "Look, I'm not trying to control you or anything. You can see whoever you like. I don't have a problem. Of course I don't!" He paused, faltering. "Just...be there when I need you, okay?"

Out of the blue, Hermione wanted to bolt and bar the giant gates of the castle, firmly shut the windows, and conjure an opaque shield around them so they could be blocked from any outsider. For a second, she wanted the world to only revolve around him and herself, or give the impression at least.

"I will be. Always," she told him, running her fingers down his red tie. "But you won't need me, Harry. You're strong. Brave. You'll be skilled at Occlumency in no time at all."

"If that was true, I'd know the basics, which I don't," Harry said with an empty laugh.

"Well, Dumbledore did say it was difficult." Hermione shrugged.

"Yeah, but be there? In case anything goes wrong?"

Hermione found herself smiling at that, and before she knew it, she had rested her cheek against his collarbone, enjoying his lovely warmth.

"You can count on it," she whispered.

For some reason, this little utterance brought Harry relief. And proof. Of how Hermione would always hold him as her top priority.

Just like he'd do for her.

Despite the layers of clothing, he could feel her cool cheek pressed against his warm skin. The nightly bliss settled around them as he held her close and pressed his own cheek on her head. She smelled nice, like cinnamon and roses and that special Hermione scent. Keeping her enclosed in his arms, he felt tranquil. Hushed. He assumed this could be the most peaceful situation ever because his mind seemed spotless. If Voldemort were to attack right now, Harry could defeat him in two seconds flat.

This was all Hermione's doing. Her mere presence, her promise to always be by his side, and her homely ambience were to blame. They somehow always erased his distress. Made him feel whole again.

He found himself sighing at the thought. He was genuinely grateful. The most important person in his life was right there in his arms; she wasn't going anywhere.

Feeling a surge of sudden happiness, Harry did something odd. He planted a soft kiss on Hermione's head, sending both hearts into a frenzy. He wasn't alarmed, though. He had done it on purpose. To show her he was thankful she was here, and there was no one else he'd rather be with.

However, he could never guess that his little kiss had sent bells tolling in Hermione's mind. She buried her face in his neck so he couldn't see her mad blush, but her heart fluttered. She could still feel his lips brushing her curls, even if he had pulled back. Harry had kissed her. Even though it had lasted a millisecond and didn't count as a proper one, he had still kissed her.

The least Hermione could do was return the favour.

Forcing her breath to return to normal, she lifted her face to look at his. He was gazing right back, his emerald green eyes shining like glitter. Surveying them, she wanted to do something she had never done before.

They did say actions spoke louder than words.

So Hermione leaned up and kissed Harry's cheek.

Something told her to not hesitate. That this wasn't the time to back out. So she turned that kiss into a long, lingering one, her lips briefly exploring his skin.

Butterflies erupted in her stomach once again, and she felt herself flushing. But when she receded, she could see he had turned as red as her, probably more. For some reason, she found this funny, and little giggles escaped her lips before she could stop them. That made him smile, but out of embarrassment. Of course, he just had to act like some nobody who had never received a kiss before. But this was special. She was special. Because what else could explain his intense heartbeat? Why he wanted nothing more than to just be here with her? How he had tugged at her waist so she couldn't flee from his eyes even if she wanted to?

But she didn't want to. She wanted to stay right where she was. The safest place in the Wizarding and Muggle worlds combined – his arms. She gazed right back at him, wondering if sparks did fly or if it was just her imagination…

"There you are!"

The sudden call in the nightly atmosphere made them jump out of their skins. It was Ron, looking as if he was out of breath.

"Why in the bloody hell are you two outside?" he exclaimed, "I've been looking for you everywhere! A heads-up would've been great…"

His voice trailed off, the reality of what he was seeing sinking in. His best friends, standing with little to no distance between them, were enclosed in each other's arms.

"Uh…am I interrupting something?"

"Oh no!" Hermione immediately said, pulling back. "We were just –"

"Actually, yeah," Harry cut in, holding her firmly so she couldn't retreat. "Yeah, you did interrupt us."

Both Hermione and Ron stared at him, but Harry stayed rooted to his spot. Unknowingly, he had turned annoyed. Did Ron really have to barge in at this moment? The moment that was only his and Hermione's?

But the next second, he sighed.

"Sorry. Just a reflex." He shrugged, letting go of Hermione and stepping back. "You were saying?"

Thankfully, Ron didn't seem to be affected by his rudeness.

"First, did you do something to Theodore?" He raised his eyebrows at Hermione.

She blinked. "No –"

"That was me," Harry clarified. "So what? Did Umbridge have a fit?"

"Umbridge? She wasn't there."

"What?"

"Yeah. Better thank your lucky stars, mate," said Ron grimly, "She received an urgent call, or she would have come straight for your neck. Humiliating her Squad member like that and all."

"He deserved it." Harry's jaw hardened. "That bloody git. D'you know what he did to Hermione –"

"So he did something to her? No wonder why Parkinson was screaming bloody murder, claiming Hermione was the felon." Ron rolled his eyes. "And no, you're not in trouble, so don't look at me like that."

Hermione, who he had addressed, breathed a sigh of relief.

"There wasn't any proof, so McGonagall disrupted Nott's jinx and shushed everyone down. It's crazy how he didn't say anything. Only Parkinson wouldn't drop the matter. She had to, obviously. It looked bad for the Squad."

"And this happened…when?" Hermione asked.

"Just a few minutes ago," Ron answered, suddenly grinning, "Honestly, what did you get up to?"

"It's a long story," Harry smirked back.

"A long story not worth telling." Hermione smiled, too.

"Right…and how did this end up here? In the courtyard?"

His question brought the two back to reality. Hermione turned pink again while Harry frowned.

"Too many questions for someone who wasn't giving a bloody damn about us, don't you think?"

To their surprise, Ron laughed. "C'mon! Am I supposed to not enjoy myself or something?"

Hermione smiled. Clearly, their concepts of enjoyment were a bit different.

"Just so you know, it was Lavender who'd noticed you both were missing," said Ron, "I was too caught up, y'know, at the moment."

"Thanks for caring," Harry said in a sarcastic tone.

"Yeah. Anyways, they're serving dinner. Thought you didn't wanna miss out on food."

Hermione, who was lost in thought, perked up at the sound of that.

"Sweet! I'm famished!" She grinned, newfound energy gripping her.

Without missing a beat, she turned towards Harry and kissed his cheek again.

"Thank you for looking out for me," she told him, "Thank you for the dance. For making me laugh again. I just...I loved it."

Harry barely had time to respond when she grabbed her dress and swished away inside the castle.

"Damn, she must be hungry," Ron commented.

"With the hell she went through, I won't blame her," Harry replied, absentmindedly touching the cheek she had kissed. He wondered if she had left a mark on him.

The way Harry, and Hermione, were acting, Ron couldn't be bashed for asking:

"Is something going on between you two?"

I dunno. Is there?

Somehow, the question seemed off-putting, so Harry just shrugged. "No, man. Nothing. She was just gloomy, and I was comforting her. That's all." He smiled as if to close the subject. "C'mon. Let's go."

Ron frowned at him but quietly followed when Harry reentered the now-crowded entrance hall...


Hermione had just lied to Ron. Well, not technically. She was famished. She just didn't make a beeline for the Great Hall right away. Instead, she bounded to the girls' bathroom on the first floor.

After everything that happened, she needed some time alone with herself to understand what it all could mean. To pick up the pieces and decipher the code of her probable confession, or a lack thereof.

Was Harry starting to see her in a different light?

She felt as if she could never be sure. Not until he spoke about it. Or even discussed it to clear his doubts.

But the way he was acting, telling her he missed her, kissing her, and behaving awkwardly made her want to believe things.

The problem? This seemed too far-fetched. Did she really have a private dance with the boy she had been planning to be with for days? Did he really break up with his girlfriend because she had insulted her? Acting rashly, yes, but while still knowing the consequences?

She still thought it was too good to be true. She must have finally gotten her own Pensieve – but a Pensieve for dreams – and must be currently looking through it.

But then...how could she feel his unwavering gaze reaching the depths of her soul? Feel every shiver, every breath in her body with his slightest touch? Take in his scent, his protection, his ultimate care?

No, this wasn't a Pensieve. This was reality.

The thought was ludicrous, and so much that laughter bubbled in her chest and out of her mouth. Hermione didn't stifle it, not even when she reached the unusually crowded first-floor landing. Her joy made her ignore the other girls. Still laughing, she spun around, letting her dress fly everywhere beneath her. Dizziness overcame her, and she staggered on her heels – and bumped into someone.

"Watch it, idiot!" A familiar voice exclaimed. It was Daphne, accompanied by none other than Theodore's new girlfriend.

Pansy didn't miss a beat when she saw Hermione. "You! You stupid, Mudblood! Did you think you could get away with your nasty little trick?!"

"Excuse me?" Hermione raised an eyebrow, not bothering to hide her mocking grin. "What's this? Or is your brain finally starting to rot?"

"Don't act so bloody smart," Pansy sneered, "I know it was you!"

"Innocent until proven guilty."

"Well, the joke's on you because I have –"

"Oh, come on, let's not waste any more time," Daphne interrupted, tugging Pansy, "Let's just go."

Pansy obeyed, but not before scowling at Hermione and muttering, "She's crazy..."

Yes, I am. Hermione thought, smiling. I've finally gone crazy.

Still giddy, she went into the bathroom and splashed cold water on her face. She wanted to get her bearings back. Whatever this was...this behaviour caused by Harry...it was intense. And dangerous. Hermione didn't think she should wallow in it for too long.

But still...the night wasn't over yet.

Ignoring the chitter-chatter of other girls, Hermione inspected herself in the mirror. She conjured a hairbrush from the flick of her wand and made her curls stand out. She quickly became so engrossed with the activity that a voice on her left startled her.

"Hello, miss. Long time no see!"

It was Lavender. Hermione beamed at her friend as the latter reapplied lip gloss.

"Where have you been?" Lavender asked.

"With Harry." Hermione smiled.

"Ah. So Theodore got kicked out of the picture? Not that hard to believe after that very public jinx –"

"He deserved it. The humiliation." Hermione sighed.

"Well, he was humiliated, all right."

"Yes. Ron told me."

"Oh, he found you?" Lavender raised her eyebrows. "Good for him because our surprise dazzled us when we saw that beastly girl instead of you during Theodore's turmoil. Where did you go? What happened?"

Hermione grew silent at her words and remained so when they went out to the landing together. She was bursting to tell Lavender everything, to confirm what she already suspected. And maybe hearing herself recount the evening would make it even truer and more certain, thus rebutting a part of her that still didn't want to believe something like this could actually happen.

So she did. In hushed whispers, she told Lavender everything. From Theodore's persistence to meet the Squad, his plan, the anger and hurt it caused, right down to Harry joining her, his break-up with Cho, and Ron's interruption.

Lavender's mouth was open throughout the whole tale.

"He broke up with Cho? Over you?!"

"Yes! Still can't believe it," Hermione grinned.

Lavender laughed. "Thank your stars he came to his senses. And because she insulted you! The perfect comeback, I'd say."

"Hm, but now we might run the risk of her ratting the DA out." Hermione sighed. "Means we'd have to stay two steps ahead of her. She'd regret it, though."

"Of course, she would!" Lavender said in mock horror. "The punishment."

The two cracked up laughing. The itch in Hermione to come to the main topic turned stronger.

"And Harry…"

"Yes?" Lavender's smiled.

Hermione chuckled at her friend's eagerness. "Well, since we're close, I get to share many moments with him that make me happy, but this time…I don't know. Something felt…different."

"How so?"

"Mm…for one thing, he was being…more intimate…and…uh…" Hermione blushed, suddenly finding it difficult to phrase Harry's new behaviour into words. But she still tried, even though her face became as red as her dress and warmth invaded her body.

Lavender beamed and said the exact words Hermione wanted to hear. "He likes you!"

"No, he doesn't." Hermione lamely countered, making Lavender titter. "Uh-huh. It's very possible. I mean, have you looked at yourself? You're the best-dressed girl here!"

"Rubbish. Have you looked at yourself?" Hermione giggled. "No wonder Ron could care less about us!"

Their giggles resonated with them as they rejoined the scattered students in the entrance hall. Lavender advised Hermione to not say anything to Harry right now because, by the looks of it, he was in the first phase of an intense crush. Hermione had to agree, even if her heart started plummeting by the possibility of it all.

The delicious aroma of food was present in the air when the girls entered the Great Hall. Two long food tables were now set on either side of the massive room, boasting all kinds of dishes one could possibly think of. The management had really put in their best, which was surprising because Umbridge must be the overseer. Did she have any hidden motive behind all this?

But Hermione had no energy to think; her stomach was begging for food. So she and Lavender hurried to get plates. Lavender wanted to try everything on the vast menu, but Hermione resisted, knowing hundreds of house-elves must have worked their fingers to the bone to get such a dinner ready.

However, hunger always wins in the end. In just a few minutes, Hermione had tried roast, different fishes, drumsticks, mashed potatoes, and a considerable amount of pumpkin juice. All the stress, pain, and ardour had left her famished.

"Where are the others?" she asked Lavender, carefully wiping her lips and forgetting all about the waterproof gloss.

Lavender took a swig of her own drink before replying. "Don't know. It's pretty hard to tell from here."

It was true. The cluster of students was thick around them. Suddenly, Lavender's eyes grew wide.

"Oh, no. Someone's here."

Hermione followed her gaze – and saw Theodore and Pansy coming their way, absent in their own world.

"Let's go," Lavender urged. But Hermione stayed firm. No way was she going to hide from that boy. Why should she? He was as valuable to her as a broken wand now, maybe even lesser, because a broken wand could get fixed.

"No, I'm not going anywhere," she told Lavender, shrugging, "He's nothing to me now, don't worry."

"But what if he –"

Lavender got interrupted because Pansy had seen Hermione, and she made a straight beeline for the two, pulling Theodore behind her.

"There! She's the culprit!" Pansy yelled, staring daggers at Hermione. "I told you, Theo! She hexed you! She humiliated you!"

Theodore just sighed. "Oh, come on. Is this all necessary?"

"Yes, it is! We need to turn her –"

"Hermione did nothing of the sort!" Lavender cut in, her glare vivid.

"Oh, yes, she did! That vengeful Mudblood –"

"You should try the figgy pudding, Pansy," Hermione smirked at her, "People say it turns the bitterest mouths sweet."

Pansy got an ugly look at the remark while Lavender chuckled and Theodore looked distraught.

"I won't use that bloody mouth if I were –"

"There you are!"

Ron's yell had interrupted Pansy by a mile. Harry, who was with him, instantly frowned when he saw Hermione's party. In turn, Theodore seemed to shrink back when he saw Harry as if he was afraid. Pride and satisfaction swelled in Hermione's heart at the sight.

"What's going on?" Harry demanded.

Before anyone could speak, Pansy cried. "Oh, I'll tell you what's going on – your stupid Mudblood friend is in big trouble!"

"Pansy thinks I jinxed Theodore," Hermione told Harry with a sweet smile.

Harry feigned surprise. "Really? That's a bit too direct, isn't it?"

"Direct, as in no proof," Ron added.

"So she has lost her mind," Lavender giggled. Hermione wanted to burst into laughter at their rivals' faces. The way the four of them were talking, as if the other two didn't exist, was downright hilarious.

Theodore was too ashamed to even look at them. Hermione speculated about what had caused him to turn so humble. Was it his diabolical plan? Pansy's superiority? A trick so they could soften the blow?

Well, she didn't care.

But Pansy was getting enraged by their light banter. "You think you're so smart, Granger. Just wait till I –"

"Okay, that's enough," Theodore intervened, clearly sick of her persistence. "Let's go."

Then, ignoring her protests, he dragged her away, disappearing into the crowd. The four breathed a sigh of relief.

"So bloody annoying," Ron muttered.

"Well, that's Pansy for you. Annoying is her middle name." Hermione laughed.

"I swear being a member of that awful squad turned her even more irksome," Lavender chimed in.

"What can you expect from some bloody fools?" Ron grinned, pulling her towards himself. "Have you eaten?"

"As much as I could? Yes."

"Did you try that colourful pie? Luna's convinced it was made by sacrificing some Flying Fruch-something…"

The two went ahead, lost in the conversation, leaving Hermione and Harry alone. She avoided his eyes and played with her blouse. For some reason, she was still having a hard time looking at him.

"Nott didn't give you any trouble, right?" Harry asked.

"No, no. He seemed…embarrassed," said Hermione, "I think he feels bad…like he should!"

"Yeah…" Harry could feel himself growing hot again. Why was he suddenly finding it difficult to speak to her properly?

"Did you see Cho?"

"Er, yeah. She's definitely avoiding me."

Hermione looked at him and sighed. "Do you…regret it?"

Harry's eyes widened at the question. "Of course not!" he exclaimed, more loudly than he had intended to. "I know it was the right thing because I feel…light. Like I'm a free man or something."

Hermione laughed at his comment. Why was it that her joy seemed so bright? And impacted him so suddenly? As if nothing could go wrong as long as she was happy?

Harry knew it was a ridiculous feeling. But somehow, it never failed to make him smile.

Meanwhile, adoration and doting were quickly filling Hermione's being like a potion in a cauldron. She realised she shouldn't be intimidated, scared, or unnerved by Harry because he was her closest confidant. A Secret Keeper of her very own.

And who was stopping her from making the first move?

So she stepped forward and slipped her hand into his.

"I think the dance's over," she informed him, her brown eyes drilling his green ones. "Let's go outside?"

The feeling of her fingers intertwined with his had sent his heart racing, but he was surprisingly calm when he answered. "You want to ditch everyone again?"

"Maybe…" She smiled.

He smiled back. "Okay. As you wish."

Her boldness had affected him. He found himself closing her hand with his fingers and whisking her away from the crowd, their friends, enemies, their troubles and heartbreaks, and into the carefree darkness and underneath the velvety sky. Because he knew the night wasn't anybody else's.

It was theirs.