A/N: This chapter will cover Harry moving into Potter Manor, as well as some surprises and events after that. Next chapter will cover Harry's 16th birthday and more of the summer, possibly the rest of it. Lots of twists in store for this chapter.
This story will start becoming more and more AU from this point on.
And there will be some Canon pairings in this story along with some favorites from fanon. Also some character parings with OCs. And the Harry and Hermione pairing is canon, regardless of what some people think.
Please let me know in the reviews what you think of the idea to write an alternative version of this story that's a Harry/Hermione/multi pairing.
And thanks to everyone who's favorited, followed, and reviewed so far. I really appreciate it.
Content Warning, This chapter has a mention of sexual abuse of minors. But no descriptions of the abuse.
Disclaimer: I don't own any of the characters or anything from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It all belongs to JK.
Chapter 6: Home Is Where The Heart Is.
Hermione was feeling almost overwhelmed by all of the revelations the trip to Gringotts had brought about. She still found it hard to believe that her parents had actually been friends with Harry's and that they'd known each other as babies until the him and his parents had went into hiding.
And Harry and her had a soul bond. That knowledge made her a little giddy. It meant that they were truly meant for each other, that they belonged together.
No wonder she'd felt so drawn to him from the moment she first met him on the train to Hogwarts their first year. Or she guessed met again.
And it also now made more sense how she'd fallen in love with him so quickly and deeply after he saved her from that troll. She also now knew why they'd always shared such a close, special bond beyond that of any of their other friends.
She just wished that each of them had been able to get over their insecurities much sooner and that they could have been together for years. But she wouldn't dwell on what could have been. They were together now and they loved each other. That was what mattered most.
Also she didn't think it was possible to love Harry anymore than she already had. But ever since that first kiss on that magical date she'd found herself falling more and more in love with him everyday. She'd been only too happy to sign the betrothal contract when offered.
After they finally left Gringotts they headed to a clear area and Harry pulled out the portkey he'd gotten that would take them to the Manor.
It was a golden goblet that had the Potter House crest on it. The group all placed their hands on it and Harry pressed his Lord ring to the crest.
Hermione felt the familiar sensation of a hook grabbing her behind her navel and then being pulled by it in a swirling spin. It only lasted a moment before her feet slammed onto solid ground and she would have fallen over if Harry hadn't grabbed hold of her and kept her from stumbling.
After everyone righted themselves she took a look around. They were standing in front of a wrought-iron gate that was actually familiar to her. But it couldn't be…
She looked around the street in front of the gate and sure enough she recognized it as the very street she and her parents lived on. Her house was just down the road a block.
She'd walked passed this very spot on many occasions. But had only ever saw an old abandoned house in ruins on the property through the gate. It was a local legend that it was an old haunted house that hadn't been lived in for years, before she was even born. And the front gate had looked worn and rusted.
But as Harry stepped towards it, it flashed a golden color and now looked brand new with the Potter House crest in the middle of it. And the on the property inside now stood a beautiful, gleaming Manor house that looked incredible. And the property itself looked beautiful.
Neat rows of lovely trees lining the walk from the gate about 40 meters to the front of the Manor. Perfectly manicured lawns covering the grounds. A large, beautiful, white marble fountain at the end of the path in front of the Manor.
Hermione couldn't believe this had always been here, so close and she never knew. She looked around at the others and saw that Sirius and Remus were looking at everything with a mixed look of nostalgia and sadness. While Harry was looking at it in awe.
Hermione also felt a sense of familiarity at the sight of it all and then she released she must have come here with her parents when she was a toddler.
Harry walked forward and pressed his Lordship ring to the center of the P in the Potter crest. The gates then split and opened. Hermione moved to Harry's side and took his hand, lacing their fingers together and giving him a comforting squeeze. He looked at her and smiled, returning the squeeze to her hand.
They walked through the gates and Sirius and Remus followed. As soon as the two men walked through the gate however they both stopped and their eyes glazed over for a moment and then they shook their heads, taking a minute to probably sort through the rush of memories that had just returned to them both.
Sirius was the first to recover and said, "bloody hell! I didn't even realize I'd lost so many memories."
Remus nodded in agreement and said, "yes it's certainly a surprise. We asked James and Lily to modify our memories when they went into hiding. They removed all our memories of Daniel and Ellen, and little Hermione of course."
Sirius looked at Hermione when her and Harry looked back at them. He said, "yes but we remember now. Hermione, Harry, your parents became very good friends after they met.
It happened when your parents moved into the neighborhood after buying your house Hermione. Your mother was pregnant with you and they had gone around the neighbors to introduce themselves to the neighbors.
They visited Potter Manor. Harry your parents were still newlyweds and Lily had recently moved in here with James and your grandparents.
They were happy to meet another young couple and they became fast friends. Of course Hermione's parents didn't know anything about magic foe awhile so they had to be careful around them with that.
But soon your mother found out she was pregnant with you Harry and her and Ellen Bonded over their shared experience of carrying babies.
When Hermione was born the Grangers even named your parents as her godparents.
And of course the real surprise came in the hospital after that. Lily was holding Hermione when all of a sudden the teddy bear that your parents had gotten her magically floated over to her and Lily from the baby bed.
If course as showed as Daniel and Ellen were James and Lily instantly knew that it meant Hermione was a witch."
Remus nodded and continued for Sirius, "Sirius and I were both there as well. We had met the Grangers shortly before and became friends with them as well. So James and Lily set Daniel down next to Ellen and told them about the magical world, that they were a wizard and witch and that the display of magic meant that little Hermione was a witch as well."
Sirius finished, "you're parents took it pretty well actually. They said that they knew there was something special about James and Lily that they couldn't figure out until they told them. They were actually delighted to learn that magic was real, especially Ellen. Apparently she was a big fan of fantasy fiction and movies and was surprised and happy to find out that there's a lot of that stuff that is real."
Hermione smiled and nodded, "that's just what she said when Professor McGonagall visited us when I was 10 and told us about magic and that I was a witch. Or should I say my parents found out again.
I can't wait for their memories to be restored and to hear about all of this from them."
They all nodded at her an they continued on to the house. They approached the front of the Manor, looking up at the beautiful house.
It was four stories high and had an attic space as well. And it was very wide. It had a large deck porch wrapping around the entire front of the house that had marble tile flooring.
The house itself was a mixture of stone and wood, colored in warm colors. Maroon, Tan, and mahogany brown. Along with cream colored trim and accents.
Sirius said, " the grounds are a lot bigger inside of the ward than they appear from outside. Thanks to area extension charms. The entire property is about 2 and a half miles long by 2 miles wide.
Behind the house is a large backyard that includes a full size quidditch pitch, a dozen greenhouses, a massive swimming pool, a barbecue and lounge area, a large flower garden with several paths and benches, stables and fields for horses and livestock, a small hedge maze, and a tennis court, Lily loved tennis."
Harry smiled and led Hermione up to the large double front doors. He placed his hand on the doorknob and it recognized his magical signature and the doors swung open.
They stepped inside into the large grand entrance area. It had a expansive marble floor with the Potter House crest embossed into the floor covering most of the center.
As soon as they stepped in they heard a faint pop and a small house elf appeared in front of them.
The elf looked up at them and smiled wide with tears of joy in his eyes.
He said, "at last, Master Harry has come home. And his Hermione is with him as well. Bramble be so happy to see you."
Harry smiled at the elf and said, "hello, Bramble was it? Pleased to meet you, I'm guessing you're the head house elf. But if I may ask, how do you know us?"
Bramble said, "I'd recognize you anywhere Master Harry, you look just like Master James after all, with Mistress Lily's eyes. Also I recognize your magic. And I recognize Mistress Hermione since she looks much like Miss Ellen and I recognize her magic as well from when she came here as a baby.
Plus I can feel her magic connected to your own since it has joined with the Potter family magic."
The elf looked behind them and smiled wide again as he said, "Masters Sirius and Remus have returned as well, oh this is a wonderful day."
Sirius smiled and said, "Bramble is that you, it's wonderful to see you again, it's been a long time. It's good to be back here."
Remus nodded his agreement. Harry asked, "so Bramble, how many house elves are there in the Manor?"
Bramble answered, "there be 15 elves in service to the Manor House of Potter. And we all be very happy to have you all home. Please let me take your things for you."
Sirius pulled out their shrunken luggage from his pocket and returned it all to normal size. Bramble snapped his fingers and it all vanished.
Bramble said, "Master Harry's things have been placed in the Master suite. Masters Sirius's and Remus's things have been placed in their old rooms. Now I'm sure Masters Sirius and Remus will give you the full tour of the house while us house elves prepare a wonderful welcome home dinner."
They all nodded but Remus said, "why don't you go ahead Sirius, I'll go get Dora as well as Daniel and Ellen and we'll all be here for dinner together. And of course when they enter the wards Daniel and Ellen will have a lot of memories to recover."
Remus bid them goodbye and apparated away. Thankfully they were all still keyed into the wards after entering in through the gates and so they could apparate in and out of the Manor.
But Remus would have to bring the Grangers in through the gate when he brought them so that the wards would recognize them and lift the blocks on their memories.
Sirius took Harry and Hermione on a full tour of the house. Hermione especially loved the library that was almost as big as the one in Hogwarts. Also in the library on the far wall was a entire row of several sleeping portraits.
Including Harry's grandparents and his mother and father. Both Sirius and Harry got tears in their eyes seeing the portraits. But Sirius suggested they wait to waken them until after they all got settled in. So they'd have plenty of time to talk to them.
They continued the tour, the first floor held other than the library, a large formal dining room, a smaller family dining room, a large kitchen, a humongous event/ball room for parties and such, and a large living room and lounge area that actually had some muggle additions.
There was a very big television with a VCR, some video game systems, and a huge selection of VHS movies. There was also a muggle stereo system and even a telephone.
For sitting there was a large sofa, two love seats, a few armchairs and recliners, as well as an area by a window with a couple comfy looking arm chairs and a soft lit lamp for reading.
On the second floor were several guest rooms and bathrooms.
The third floor held the family bedrooms and baths including the master bedroom room suite and an heirs bedroom. There was also a game room on that floor that had a pool table, a dart board, a chess table, several muggle arcade games, and a fully stocked wet bar.
Also across from the master bedroom was the masters study. In here Sirius showed them were the house's wardstone was. He told Harry how to enter its chamber and how to fully activate control of it since he was the master of the house now.
Harry did so and then they looked around the study some more. There was a large mahogany desk that had an ancient looking computer on it and had a comfortable desk chair. On the desks opposite side were two other chairs for people meeting with the master of the house.
The study also contained a personal love seat and a small bar. On one of the walls was a large tapestry that held the Potter family tree. They also discovered the house safe which Harry had to open by pricking his finger and placing his blood on the family crest on it's door.
Now that it was tied to his blood and magical signature all he'd have to do to open it would be to tap it with his wand.
Inside of the safe he found his family grimoire as well as a letter from his parents and grandparents. He left them in there to read later.
Then Sirius showed them the master bedroom where Harry's stuff had already been placed and put away by Bramble. Sirius then left the teenagers to themselves promising to show them around more later.
As Hermione checked our the master suite with Harry she realized that after exploring the house and now being alone with Harry in this room that she felt right at home. As much if not more so than she did in her childhood home.
After looking all around the room and checking out the master bath they sat on the edge of Harry's enormous four poster bed. Hermione snuggled into Harry's side and rested her head on his shoulder.
After a few minutes of comfortable silence Harry nervously said what was on his mind.
He said, "um Hermione, I wanted to ask you something. You already know that you and your parents are welcome to live here. You'll all be safe here with Voldemort back and everything until he's finally defeated.
But I was wondering, well I really enjoyed it when you slept and cuddled with me in Italy, so would you maybe want to, to move in with me here, in um, this room?"
Hermione blushed but smiled and answered, "so my handsome, caring, kind, and loving boyfriend wants me to share his bedroom huh?" She teased then continued, "well as long as my parents don't mind, then I'd absolutely love to Harry."
Harry beamed at her and then captured her lips in a passionate kiss. Hermione's brain went very fuzzy but she couldn't help but think that this would certainly make things even better for what she had planned for his birthday next month. She couldn't wait to give him her very, very special gift. He was going to be very pleasantly surprised.
They spent a little longer snogging for a bit and then Harry called Bramble and asked if after the Grangers arrived and everything was settled if he could have Hermione's things brought from her parent's house and moved into his room.
Bramble happily promised to personally have Master Harry's Hermione's things moved in by that evening. He also promised that once everything was decided that him and a couple other house-elves would move all of the Granger's things from their house.
He told them that he'd set up part of the second floor as their living space and even transform the bedroom and others for them to be just like their own from their house.
After the elf popped away Harry took Hermione's hand and they went to explore more of the house. And Hermione knew that more than ever she was home.
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Harry was happier then he could ever remember. He finally had his own home with a family that loved him. Sirius was free and could raise him, and best of all the girl he loved was now his girlfriend and she was going to move in with him, in his room.
His life had sure pulled a 180. After they finished the tour of the house, checking out the attic that had a large owlery, and the basement that was a fully equipped auror training room and a well setup gym, they joined Sirius in the family dining room for lunch.
The house-elves had made a delicious spread of sandwiches and chips. Thinking of the house-elves gave Harry an idea.
He stood and called, "Dobby!"
The excitable little elf popped in and was overjoyed to see Harry.
"The great Harry Potter sir be calling Dobby. What can Dobby be doing for yous?"
Harry said, "well Dobby, this is my new home, and I know you're probably happy working at Hogwarts, but if you'd like I was wanting to offer you the opportunity to come work for me. I'd be happy to bond with you and I was thinking that Winky could bond with Hermione.
Remus has explained to us how house-elves need the bond with a witch or wizard to help fuel their magic. That free elves will eventually lose their magic, go insane and die if they don't find someone new to bond with.
But if you and her decide to bond with us you will not be slaves. You'll be family, and you'll both be paid and have days off.
So what do you think Dobby?"
Dobby broke out in tears of pure happiness. He ran forward and wrapped his arms around Harry's knees in a hug.
He said, "oh yes, please sir, Dobby be very happy to be Bonded with the great Master Harry Potter sir. And Dobby be sure that Winky be very happy to bond with Master Harry's Mione."
Harry smiled and kneeled down to hug the elf back. Then he stood and took Dobby's hand in his and said, "Dobby, I Harry James Potter, ask you to be Bonded with me. In exchange for your service I will share my magic with you. And you will be considered part of the House of Potter which will see you protected and treated as an equal. You will never punish yourself for any reason. If you feel you have done something wrong you will come to me and explain. If I feel that you actually did wrong than you will simply receive correction on how to fix it. You will also be paid for your service as a valued employee. Do you accept this bond?"
Dobby nodded and smiled and said, "yes, Dobby accepts bond with Master Harry Potter and will serve his House with honor."
Harry nodded and said, "then I swear on my magic that you are now my Bonded elf, so mote it be."
They were both covered in a warm glowing light and Harry felt his magic connecting with the elf's magic.
Dobby hugged Harry again and then Harry asked Dobby to go get Winky and bring her there.
After Dobby popped away Hermione came over and wrapped her arms around Harry's neck and kissed him deeply.
After she pulled back she said, "that was so good of you Harry. You have made him very happy and probably saved his life and his sanity. I'm so proud of you."
Harry blushed at the praise and she kissed him again. Sirius cleared his throat but was smiling at the young couple who so reminded him of James and Lily.
They broke apart, both blushing furiously and rejoined Sirius at the table. A few minutes later Dobby popped back in with Winky.
Winky was wobbling around and Hermione went to her and kneeled down and helped steady her. Then she made the same offer to her that Harry had to Dobby. To bond with her and be a Bonded elf of House Potter and Granger, since Hermione was betrothed to Harry and her and her parents were now considered part of the House of Potter.
Although it wouldn't be official until they actually married someday. They weren't even actually engaged yet but Harry already had plans about how and when he wanted to propose to her.
He loved her with all his heart and already knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. His current plan was to propose to her at the leaving feast at the end of their 6th year and then get married after their last year of school.
But depending on how things went he'd be willing to move that time table up a bit.
Winky was very happy that Hermione wanted to bond with her and told her that she was a good elf. They did the bonding ritual and as soon as the light faded Winky looked fully sober and in her right mind for the first time in a long time.
Her magic was fully restored as was her mental state. Harry and Hermione asked the elves to simply help the other elves of the Manor for now and they'd call them if needed.
A short time later Harry and Hermione were cuddled up on their bed doing some heavy snogging when Harry felt the wards inform him that Remus had returned along with Tonks and the Grangers.
Harry reluctantly broke off kissing his girlfriend and told her that her parents had arrived. So they untangled themselves from each other and headed downstairs hand in hand.
When they got to the living room Sirius, Remus, and Tonks were standing in front of the sofa where Daniel and Ellen were sitting and clearing their heads from the sudden rush of many lost memories returning.
When they saw Harry and Hermione come in Ellen got up and rushed over to them and pulled Harry into a warm embrace.
She said, "oh Harry, I can't believe we could have ever forgotten such a wonderful boy. Even with our memories blocked. Oh your parents were such good friends to us, they were family.
We are happy we finally remembered everything. But it is so sad we missed out on so many wonderful years with you where you and Hermione should have grown up together."
Daniel joined his wife and gave Harry a hug as well.
He said, "at least we remember now and have you in our lives once again. And Remus told us that you and Hermione had officially signed the betrothal contract that we and your parents had created when we found out about your soul bond.
And that thanks to it we are now considered part of the House of Potter. We are happy that you and Hermione found each other again and are finally together.
You two were made for one another. And Remus also told us of your offer for us to live here until at least that Voldemort and his followers are defeated. And we would love to. We're family after all, even if it won't be official for a few years when you two will finally get married."
Harry smiled and said, "I'm really happy to have you here, I'll have my house-elves get everything moved here to the living area I had set up for you and Ellen. They'll be able to get it all done before dinner."
Daniel smirked and said, "I noticed that you said the space is for Ellen and I. So just where will our daughter be staying?"
Harry and Hermione blushed and Harry stammered, "well, um… the thing is I kind of asked Hermione, and she said yes, that she um, move into my room. If it's OK with you Daniel and Ellen?"
The dentists looked at each other and shared a smile.
Then Daniel put on his stern father face and said, "so you want to share a bed with our little girl? You two have only been an official couple for about two weeks and your ready to shack up."
Harry stammered some unintelligible words, clearly afraid before Daniel couldn't keep up the mask and broke into a wide grin and also out in a fit of laughter.
Ellen came to Harry's rescue and said, "please excuse my idiot husband for trying to scare you Harry. He and I both know just how close you and Hermione are.
You've been best friends for years now and even without stating it you've been in love with each other for almost that whole time.
Plus your parents told us all about soul bonds. They don't create feelings of love where there is none, but they enhance the naturally formed love that is already there.
So even if you've only finally gotten together a week and a half ago with how much you already love each other with the bond you both probably love each other as much as a couple would that had been together for years.
And you know each other probably better than anyone else does. You have a very special and deep bond even without the soul bond that is based on friendship, love, trust, and respect.
And you're both nearly adults, especially in the magical world. We trust you both to make good decisions and not hurt each other.
Even when you're relationship does become more physical, we know you'll communicate what each other is and isn't comfortable with and that you'll respect boundaries.
And we also know it would be pointless to try and keep you apart. So I'll answer for both of us and say that it is more than okay for you to share a room.
We want you both to be happy and be able to let your love continue to grow."
The two teens were blushing crimson from the mention of their relationship getting more physical but were also smiling at Ellen's speech.
Daniel recovered from his laughter which Remus, Sirius, and Tonks had joined in on.
He smiled warmly and said, "Ellen is right, we trust you both and want you to be happy. And with our memories restored we truly love you like you were already our son Harry.
Of course if we hadn't had all of our memories restored and remembered your parents, the betrothal contract and everything about your soul bond I highly doubt either of us would have been okay with you sharing a room and a bed.
Buy we do remember and we truly look forward to the day when you will officially be part of the family. But I do hope you aren't planning a wedding too soon"
Harry and Hermione each hugged her parents warmly. Then Harry answered, " well I'll admit that I've thought about it a bit. About when I might propose to Hermione, I won't say when exactly because I'm not sure just yet and I want it to be a very romantic surprise for Hermione.
But it'll be awhile still. And I promise to let you both know Daniel and Ellen when I'm going to do so.
And after that we'll probably have a good while as an engaged couple before we actually walk down the aisle. Maybe after my 17th birthday or after we finish Hogwarts.
I know of course that we still have to deal with Voldemort and his minions but I've decided I'm not going to let that evil git keep me from living my life and being with the girl I love."
Harry looked at Hermione who was looking at him with eyes full of love and a tender smile on her face. He could tell how happy she was to hear that he was already thinking about their future and wanting to propose and be married in the near future.
Daniel and Ellen smiled at Harry's reply and at the loving and fond looks that him and Hermione were giving each other.
Sirius spoke up, "well I think this all deserves a celebration, us all getting our memories back and these young ones planning a happy future together. Plus everyone moving in. Dobby a round of champagne for everyone please."
Dobby popped in and smiled, he snapped his fingers and summoned glasses of chilled champagne for everyone. They all toasted and cheered. Harry was happier then he ever remembered being before. He now had his own home with a big family that loved him and he had his soul mate. He didn't know how this summer could get any better, but he'd soon find out it could get even better than he'd ever dreamed.
After a wonderful house warming dinner that evening everyone went to the library. All of the Grangers things had already been moved to the Manor and their living area was set up.
Hermione felt more at home than ever living here with her beloved now. All of her things were now put away in her and Harry's master bedroom. They each had their own closet, the Master's and Lady's closets.
And she also had her own work desk and Harry even had the elves create a little area in the room for Hermione's cat Crookshanks.
Hermione was so happy that her parents had agreed to let her share a room with Harry. And she could tell how happy he was as well. Of course it had been embarrassing when her mother pulled her aside later to talk about sex and how to approach it when her and Harry's relationship became more physical.
Hermione admitted to her mother in extreme embarrassment that she actually had something very special planned for their first time. And that she planned to give Harry that surprise for his birthday next month.
She expected her mother to scold that it was much too soon or something. But to her surprise her mum agreed that it was perfect and that she'd help Hermione set up the most perfect romantic evening for that.
After all Harry had set up the perfect romantic evening for their first date and she wanted to return the favor and even top him in making his birthday one he'd never forget.
After they had all gathered in the library they all moved to seats that Remus conjured up in front of the portrait of James and Lily.
Harry sat it a seat in the middle and instead of taking one of the other chairs Hermione took a seat in Harry's lap. She knew that he'd need her for support when he talked to his parents and so wasn't surprised when he gave her a grateful smile and a look of pure love as he wrapped his arms around her and held her close.
Hermione sighed in contentment and rested her head against Harry's chest with his chin resting on her head.
After everyone was seated Sirius tapped his wand on the runes engraved on the bottom of the portrait and the occupants stirred awake. The portrait background was of the library itself, all like a mirror image, with James and Lily seated together on a loveseat.
The pair fully awoke and looked around at everyone. James spoke first, "Sirius, Remus, is that you? And Daniel and Ellen too. And oh my goodness, Harry and Hermione, you've both grown so much."
Lily with tears in her eyes then said, "what's going on, I imagine that since we're talking that the real James and Lily Potter have dies.
Oh our poor baby Harry. And since the last thing we can remember from the real us is when they went into hiding at the cottage that Charlus and Dorea gave us as a wedding gift, I'm guessed we died shortly after that.
Padfoot, how long has it been. And why haven't we been awakened before now?"
Sirius also had years in his eyes as he answered, "Prongs, Lily flower, I'm so sorry. It's been almost 15 years since you were both killed by Voldemort on the night of Halloween 1981.
It is now June 28th of the year 1996. Harry is almost 16 years old. And I failed you both. You named me Harry's godfather and I should have raised him when you couldn't. But I was thrown into Azkaban without a trial the day after you were murdered.
Wormtail, the rat that betrayed you to Voldemort also framed me for your betrayal. And then he blew up a street right in front of me when I found him and confronted him about it.
He killed 13 muggle bystanders, turned into his rat form and escaped into the sewers. Leaving me to be blamed for his murder along with the deaths of those muggles."
James and Lily cried in pain and shocked horror at that. They assured Sirius that they held no blame to him whatsoever. Then they looked at Harry.
Lily smiled and said, "oh my darling boy. You have grown into such a handsome young man. And we are so happy to see that you have your Hermione. Does this mean you two are together, that's so wonderful. Did you grow up together living with Daniel and Ellen since Sirius couldn't be there?"
Harry spoke up, his voice thick with tears as he clung hold of Hermione for strength and support.
"mum, dad, I miss you so much. And I wish I could tell you that Hermione and I grew up together in a happy home. But we didn't. Daniel and Ellen didn't even remember you or me from when I was a baby. You put blocks on their memories when you went into hiding to protect them from Voldemort.
They regained their memories after entering the wards of the Manor earlier today. And as for me I was raised by Petunia and Vernon.
And it was not a happy home. At least not for me. As I'm sure you know they hate magic and anything to do with it. So they hated me a treated me as an unwanted burden and a freak.
I didn't even know I was a wizard until I my 11th birthday when Hagrid brought me my letter and told me. The Dursley's wouldn't let me have any of the letters that Hogwarts sent by owl.
But now Sirius has finally had his name cleared and we moved into the Manor today. I finally have a family that loves me. And yes Hermione and I are together.
We found each other again at Hogwarts and have been best friends ever since. But we only recently finally became a couple even though we've been in love with each other for years. We were both afraid of losing the other as our friend because we didn't realize the other felt the same.
But it doesn't matter now because we love each other very much and are finally together. And plan to be together forever.
So much has happened, I don't even know where to start."
So they all joined in filling in portrait James and Lily on everything. From how they had died and Harry surviving the killing curse thanks to Lily's sacrifice. All the way to Voldemort's return and everything they'd gone through at Hogwarts.
When they were done everyone was emotionally drained and decided to have an early night.
After they said goodnight to James and Lily Harry took Hermione's hand and they went to their room. After they both brushed their teeth and changed into their bed clothes they got into bed under the covers and snuggled up together and just held each other.
Hermione felt so sad for Harry, losing his parents and then Sirius. Having to be raised by people that hated him. How she wishes that at the least that he had been raised with her. Her parents were clear that they had and still do love Harry as their own.
They could have grown up together, gone to school together and fallen in love even sooner. They could have been a couple for years now. They had lost our on so much.
But she knew they couldn't dwell on what might have been. They were together now and they had their whole lives in front of them. Magicals could live over 200 years after all. So she knew her and Harry would have a very long and very happy life together, she'd do everything in her power to make sure of that.
Before she drifted off to she gave Harry a soft kiss and said "goodnight my love, sleep well. I love you with all of my heart."
Harry smiled and returned the kiss and said, "you sleep well too my heart, I love you with every fiber of my being. I am really happy to have you in my arms every night from now on. I'm never letting you go."
Hermione smiled and said, "you'll never have to, together forever. We'll have to figure out some way to share a bed when we get back to school though."
Harry smiled and said, "I've already thought about that and asked Sirius earlier. Apparently there are Lord's quarters in the school for young Lords like myself and their betrothed.
So we'll meet with McGonagall soon to discuss it with her. Although we might have to get engaged before school starts, not that I'd mind that I'd you wouldn't."
Hermione squealed in delight and said, "oh yes please Harry. I love you and want to be your fiancée and then someday your wife. Is this your way of asking me?"
Harry answered, "no love, nor yet. I want to do it right, I want it to be special for you and I both. And I want to get your person blessing on it first. But I promise I won't make you wait too long my love."
Hermione smiled and nodded and cuddled even closer into Harry's side and soon fell asleep with her head on what had become her favorite pillow, Harry's chest.
The next few weeks were very busy for Harry and the rest of the occupants of Potter Manor. For one Sirius and Remus had started to give Harry and Hermione more advanced defense lessons.
They had also taken Daniel and Ellen to Ollivander's to get their first ever wands since they both had begun showing clear signs of accidental magic since being joined with the Potter family magic.
They were now a full wizard and witch. And so Sirius, Remus along with Harry and Hermione had also started giving them beginners lessons in magic. They were both just as intelligent as their daughter and were quick studies.
So in no time at all they were nearly caught up to the level that Harry and Hermione were at themselves. And after the teens went off to school Sirius and Remus would continue instructing the Grangers.
It also turned out that Ellen had a natural talent for potions. So Hermione's parents were quickly becoming quite capable magicals.
Hermione also confided in Harry that she now felt closer to her parents now then she had for years. They could finally truly share in the magical side of her life.
And Harry and Hermione just got even closer and more in love with each other every day. He wanted to have a very important talk with Daniel, Ellen, Sirius, Remus, and his parents portrait.
He knew some people would think they were rushing into this but he knew better. Hermione and him had been best friends for years and even though they'd only 'officially' become a couple a few weeks ago, it felt like they'd been together for their whole lives.
He figured that was partially due to the soul bond. But their relationship was so effortless, so natural. Being with Hermione was as easy and natural as breathing.
And just like breathing, he knew he couldn't live without her either. He knew all the way down to the deepest parts of his heart and soul that she was it for him.
He loved her and wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. There was absolutely no doubt whatsoever about it. And he knew she felt the exact same for him.
In light if that it just didn't make sense to put this off for a few years despite what some may say.
So one day while Hermione was working with Tonks on learning some necessity spells for witches, Harry gathered with the other adults in the library with his mum and dad's portrait.
He first looked at Daniel and Ellen, he cleared his throat and said, "Mr. and Mrs. Granger, I love your daughter more than anything or anyone in the world. I want to spend the rest of my life with her.
So I would like to ask for your blessing to ask her to marry me. I plan to ask her on my birthday if you're okay with it. I know we're young and we haven't actually been together long but I know with all my heart that she is the only one for me. And I know she feels the same for me.
So do I have your blessing to propose to her?"
Daniel an Ellen looked at each other and then at the other adults who were all fighting massive grins. Then the Grangers both smiled wide and Daniel said,
"of course Harry, you absolutely have our blessing to ask for Hermione hand. We didn't think it would be quite this soon but also knew it wouldn't be that far away."
Ellen then took over, "we know that you'll make our little girl the happiest woman in the world. And we know you'll always love and protect her. That the two of you will always be there for each other."
Then James and Lily both said, "congratulations son."
Lily continued, "we are so very happy for you sweetheart. We knew from the first time you and Hermione met that you were truly made for each other and that you'd be together one day."
All the adults cheered for Harry and gave him warm hugs. Sirius and Remus promised to throw him an epic stag party.
Then Ellen asked, "so after she says yes, and we all know she will, how soon do you want the wedding to be?"
Harry answered, "well I don't want to really set or plan anything without Hermione's input, we're a team after all. But if she wants I was thinking maybe around the Yule holidays, or maybe Easter if she doesn't want it to be that soon."
They all nodded in agreement and then Harry asked his parents portrait, "mum, I was hoping to use your engagement ring that dad gave you. Do you think it's in the family vault?"
Lily answered, "oh that's perfect. I know that both myself and the real me in heaven would be honored to have your beloved wear that ring. I actually remember placing it into the family vault after our wedding and when we found out that I was carrying you.
So it should still be there in my old trunk. The real me also left my old diary and other things in there for you from both your father and myself."
James said, "yes we did do that. I believe I even left the original book and notes that us Marauders put together on becoming animagus."
Sirius smiled and said, "so that's what happened to all our research. Well we'll make sure to get all that and perhaps Harry you and Hermione can both work on becoming animagi before you go back to school."
Harry smile and said, "that'd be brilliant. I'll be looking forward to it."
During those first weeks of July Sirius was very busy as the new Lord Black. First of all he wrote a letter that he'd rewrote several times before finally sending it. He had written to the only woman he'd ever loved.
The woman he had been set to marry before their lives were ripped apart and he was sent to Azkaban. He still loved her bit he had no idea if she still felt the same way, or if she had moved on and perhaps married someone else.
He would wait to hear back from her. After he sent the letter he decided to take care of some family business that couldn't wait any longer.
He called Dobby to the room he had set up as his private office next to his bedroom.
Dobby popped in and asked, "what can Dobby be doing for Master Doggy?"
Sirius smiled at the energetic elf's nicknames for him.
Sirius said, "Dobby you were the Malfoy's elf for a long time. I need to know, how were you treated by Narcissa?"
Dobby smiled and said, "Mistress Cissy be very good to Dobby. Even when bad masters Lucy and Draco mistreated Dobby, Mistress Cissy always healed Dobby and nursed him back to health."
Sirius nodded and said, "well that gives me hope for her. I know that her father forced her into that marriage with Lucius. Unlike Bellatrix, Narcissa and Andromeda never supported Voldemort.
I need you to do me a favor Dobby. You know Malfoy Manor and the wards very well.
Can you go there unseen, wait until Cissy is alone and ask her to come see me. And then bring her here?"
Dobby nodded and popped away. A few minutes later he popped back in with Narcissa Malfoy.
Narcissa saw Sirius and smiled and said, "oh Sirius, my dear cousin, it really is you. I'm am so happy that you're finally free and well."
She hugged Sirius warmly and he returned it. He said, "darling Cissy, I've missed you. I've called you here for some very important reasons. But first I have to know. Have you joined them, have you taken the mark?"
Narcissa shook her head and emphatically stated, "no I haven't. I would never truly follow Voldemort. I've only stayed with Lucius to try and protect Draco and became I know they'd kill me.
And Bella is there as well. Oh poor Bella, my sister is gone. She used to be such a sweet girl full of love until the Lestranges and Voldemort used dark magic to twist her mind and drive her insane.
They imperiused her and forced her to do one horrible thing after another until her mind broke and she only believed whatever Voldemort wanted her to believe."
Sirius frowned and said, "I'm sorry Cissy, I never knew. I do remember the dear sweet girl that Bella used to be and I never could understand how she had changed so drastically.
Well it might be too late for her but not for you. Do you want to be free of Lucius?"
Narcissa cried, "more than anything. I never lover him nor he me. He only wanted me for the Black family legacy and gold. He never even touched me, not that I ever wanted him to.
He used magical insemination to impregnate me to give him an heir. We never consummated our marriage. He always preferred younger witches.
He's taken many young daughters of fellow death eaters to his bed and even some muggle-born and muggle girls. It's horrible what he and others did to those poor girls.
They don't even kill the muggle and muggle-born girls, but keep them for their enjoyment. They keep them as slaves in the basement of the Manor.
I wish I could help those poor girls. Someone I think a quick, painless death won't be kinder then what they have to suffer through. Especially after they have to watch their families be tortured and murdered.
I tried to get them out safely after Lucius was arrested but there are other death eaters in the Manor."
Sirius comforted her and said, "we'll see if we can't save those girls. But for now I can at least save you. As Lord Black I state by magic that your marriage to Lucius Malfoy is hereby dissolved.
You are once again Narcissa Black. And in the name of magic I also reclaim all properties, vaults and gold of House Black currently held by Lucius Malfoy.
That includes Malfoy Manor, which is once again Black Manor. I will also claim all personal holdings of House Malfoy since they were a lower House that married into House Black. All that belonged to Lucius is now yours Cissy.
And since I have reclaimed Black Manor and have control of the wards, I can expel any death eaters from the house."
Narcissa smiled and said, "oh thank you Sirius, I'm free. I can finally be with the person I love."
Sirius smile and said, "so you already have someone in mind?"
Narcissa answered, "yes, there's someone I've been secretly in love with for a few years now and they feel the same for me. But I've never broken my marriage vows. We have been waiting until I could somehow be free of Lucius."
Sirius asked, "so who is the lucky fellow who's captured my dear cousin's heart?"
Narcissa answered, "Well it's not actually a fellow, you know that I studied to be a healer right."
Sirius nodded and she continued, "well before I could finish my mastery I was forced to marry Lucius. And of course he didn't want his wife working even as a healer.
But because of my knowledge and skill I have been allowed to volunteer at St. Mungo's to help train and teach apprentice healers fresh out of Hogwarts.
Well anyway a few years ago I volunteered and met a wonderful, beautiful, and talented young witch named Jessica Smith. I started training her and couldn't help but fall in love with her.
I never told anyone that I was only interested in other females and not men. But I met Jessica, a lovely muggle-born witch of 18 at the time with a true talent for healing.
And as we worked together I discovered that she preferred witches as well. And even though she's a good few years younger than me we fell in love.
But we knew we couldn't be together unless I was somehow able to get free of my loveless marriage. So we only ever shared a warm embrace and the occasional kiss."
Sirius smiled and said, "I'm very happy for you Cissy. She sounds truly special. If the two of you wish to marry you have my complete blessing and I'll even preside over the ceremony myself."
Narcissa hugged him again and said, "oh thank you Sirius. Now I just have to figure out a way to free Draco from his father's conditioning. Did you know that Lucius wanted him to take the mark later this summer.
That is not going to happen. And I have to figure out where we'll live. I have no wish to return to that Manor, far too many bad memories."
Sirius said, "we'll figure something out. I'm sure Harry would be fine with you staying here. But not with Draco as well. Too much animosity.
Also with the Grangers living here and Hermione sharing a room with Harry there would be no end to the nasty insults."
Narcissa smirked and said, "so it seems that Harry has finally claimed his witch, good for them. Though I'm surprised that you and the girls parents are fine with them already sleeping together."
Sirius shrugged and said, "long story, I'll fill you in later. But for now let's talk to Harry about you staying here. As for Draco perhaps he can spend the rest of the summer at the Black family farm.
Old Edward is still running the place and can teach Draco about hard work and maybe a little humility. Ed won't put up with any back talk or complaining."
Narcissa smiled and said, "that's perfect, I remember Ed, a very sweet man but certainly no push over. There's one other thing I need to tell you.
Voldemort is currently at Malfoy, now once again Black Manor, along with Bella and some other top death eaters. As well as the rat Peter."
Sirius snarled but then smiled evilly and said, "well, in that case perhaps an anonymous tip to Amelia Bones could see a large group of top aurors performing a surprise raid.
I already sent her a um, different letter earlier, but perhaps I can floo call her. And I can make the wards on the Manor disarm Voldy and all of his pets in the house, and block off their magic inside.
As well as trap them from escaping. But we need to get those girls and Draco all out of there first."
He called Dobby, "Dobby can you please go to Malfoy Manor, in the basement and get all of the captive girls there and bring them to safety. Bring them here to the house infirmary. Then also grab Draco even if you have to stun him and take him to The Black Farm, let Old Ed know he's to keep the boy there for the summer and to put him to work. His mother will come to visit him later to explain."
After Dobby popped away in his mission Sirius first floo called his cousin Andromeda.
He poked his head in the green flames and talked for a moment and then came out pulling Andromeda through.
When Andy saw her sister she hugged her in joy.
Then Sirius explained, "Cissy has been freed from Lucius and his boss. But we'll explain later. There'll be several young girls arriving soon in the Manor's infirmary that will most likely need healing.
And as skilled as Cissy is I figured you'd be happy to help."
Andromeda nodded and said, "of course, I'm very happy to see you again Sirius but of course I wasn't explain to see you until tomorrow evening when Ted and I came for dinner."
Narcissa said, "Sirius, can I call Jessica as well. She is a very good healer as well and is especially good with children."
Sirius nodded and said, "yes, we'll take all the help we can get. Though you and her aren't on the list if those welcome into wards yet, as Harry's magical guardian I can let some in through the wards temporarily as I did with you."
Narcissa used the floo and a few minutes later had brought through a very beautiful young witch who appeared to be in her early 20's. She had long blonde hair, and bright blue eyes.
Andromeda recognized her and said, "Jessi, how do you know Cissy?"
The young witch said, 'well its along story senior healer Andromeda. But when I first started working and training at St. Mungo's Cissy taught me a lot and we became close."
Andromeda looked between the pretty young healer and her sister and smiled knowingly.
She said, "well good for you. You're much better for her than that evil git Lucius."
Narcissa was surprise and asked, "Andy, how…?"
Andromeda continued for her, "how did I know that you preferred the company of witches over wizards?
I've known since we were children, I noticed how you looked at other girls. And I even spied you 'practice' kissing with Bella.
Not that I cared then or do now. And even though I dearly love my husband I've also always been attracted to females as well as men. Bella also taught me kiss as well I confessed to her that I saw you two kissing.
Ted has even let me date fellow witches on the side before. Some of which I shared with him."
Narcissa was blushing at hearing all of that and Sirius was as well.
He cleared his throat and said, "right, well enough about that. We have some young girls that have been abused to see to."
They all nodded and followed him out of the office. They ran into Harry and Hermione in the hallway. Hermione had Harry pressed against the wall snogging his brains out.
Sirius smiled at seeing the young couple that were now comfortable enough to be that intimate when not in the privacy of their room.
He cleared his throat and the teens broke apart in surprise. They both blushed crimson at being caught but then looked around at the new faces in confusion.
Sirius gave them a quick recap of everything and Harry warmly welcomed the three ladies to the Manor. Then they all quickly went to the infirmary.
Except Hermione, she ran to get her parents. They were dentists but they both also had basic medical training as well. Especially her dad who was a medic in the army.
When they got to the infirmary they found eight frightened young girls all between the ages of 5 and 10.
Thankfully the infirmary was already fully stocked and Narcissa, Andromeda, and Jessica soon gave out calming droughts to all the girls.
Daniel and Ellen arrived quickly and helped with triage while Sirius, Harry, and Hermione stayed back and let them work.
Thankfully none of the girls had any serious injuries. But they all had some bruising and swelling, especially in their pelvic regions. Plus they were all severely traumatized from their abuse and having to have watched their families be tortured and murdered.
Once all of their physical problems were healed they gave all the girls dreamers sleep potions and put them all to bed in the infirmary.
Thankfully it was a large room with a dozen hospital beds.
Cissy, Andy, and Jessica conferred with the Grangers and they all agreed. They'd obliviate the girls of their horrible memories from the abuse and what they had to witness when they lost their families.
Cissy approached Sirius and Harry. She said, "we need to figure out what to do with these poor girls. Even with removing the memories of all the terrible things they've been through they'll still need mind healing.
And they are all orphans, we need to help them."
Harry didn't hesitate in answering, "they can live here. I'll pay for anything they need. And even make sure that the muggle-born witches have everything they need when it comes time for them to attend Hogwarts.
As Lord Potter I offer the full protection and support of my House to all these girls."
Sirius smiled in pride at his godson and Hermione hugged him full of pride for her amazing boyfriend.
Narcissa smiled and said, "that is very good of you Harry. But you don't have to take on this entire burden yourself. I've always wanted a daughter and would be happy to adopt at least two of the girls."
Daniel and Ellen looked at each other and nodded. Daniel said, "that's right Harry. We'll help as well. We'll adopt a couple of the girls as well. So I guess you'll have a couple of little sisters to get to know Hermione.
And if Harry's adopting the others some daughters as well. I didn't expect to become a dad again, or a grandfather this early, but I'm happy for it to be so."
Hermione hugged her parents. And Sirius turned to Harry and said, "well I never expected you to take on parenting so young but I know you'll be great. I'll also adopt two of the girls as well as daughters of the House of Black.
You can take guardianship for the two youngest. I assume both you and I will Hermione will take guardianship?"
Hermione nodded her agreement and hugged Harry. She then said, "of course, although we won't be able to take full guardianship until we both finish school. I don't think either of us are quite ready to be parents just yet.
And I do plan to give Harry some children of our own some day. I know Harry always wanted a big family and I very much want to give it to him."
Harry smiled and kissed her soundly. He said, "I love you so much my Angel."
All of the adult smiled at the touching scene. Then Harry said to Narcissa, "and as for you auntie Narcissa, you're welcome in my home. Now that you're free from Lucius I want you to be safe and happy. I want all of my family to be safe and happy."
Narcissa hugged Harry warmly and thanked him for his sincere kindness.
Then Sirius went to inform Remus and Tonks about all of the new residents in the Manor. And he asked Remus who was acting as the regent for both House Black and Potter to gather and file all of the necessary paperwork for the adoption and guardianship of all the orphaned girls after tracking down their identities. It had already been a very long day.
Then Dobby popped in to let him know that Draco was safely delivered to the Black Farm. And that there was a Madam Amelia Bones requesting to enter the Manor by floo.
Sirius rushed back to his private office and allowed the wards to let Amelia come through the floo.
After she came through she vanished the soot on her from the floo and looked at Sirius.
She was just as beautiful as the last time he saw her, with her auburn red hair, her lovely grey eyes.
They stared at each other a moments and then she ran into his arms and captured his lips with hers.
They kissed each other passionately for a minute. Then they pulled slightly apart.
Amelia said, "oh Sirius my love, I've waited so long to see you again. I never once believed you were guilty but every thing I did to try to get you a trial to have you cleared went nowhere.
And then at the trial you finally received last month I couldn't bare to face you at the time after I'd failed you for so long. But my heart still belongs only to you. Please, can you ever forgive me?"
Sirius answered by kissing her again and saying, "my dear Amy, there's nothing to forgive. Thinking about you is one of the only things that got me through Azkaban. I've never stopped loving you and I never will.
But if you've moved on, found someone else I won't stand in your way."
Amelia smiled and said, "there's never been anyone else Sirius, only you. I could never move on. The only thing that got me through the last 15 years was focusing on raising Susan after losing my brother and his wife."
Sirius then asked what he' wanted to ask her for so long. "In that case my love, will you at long last marry me?"
Amelia smiled and said, "I've waited a long time for you to ask me those words so that I could tell you YES! I'd love to marry you."
They shared another long passionate kiss. Then Sirius sat her down and explained everything that had happened in the last few hours. And the plan to capture Voldemort and his top death eaters.
Amelia smiled at him and said, "well in that case I have a lot of calls to make and a large force of aurors to gather. I also think I'll ask Alastor Moody to be part of the task force. This is going to be quite the party."
Later that day Harry waited anxiously with Hermione and her parents and Narcissa, and Jessica for word on how everything went.
Andromeda had gone home to tell her husband Ted about every that was happening.
Sirius, Remus, and Tonks had all gone with Amelia and her team of aurors which included Moody and Shacklebolt for the raid on the former Malfoy Manor to capture Voldemort and his people.
They were spending that time meeting and talking with the sweet young girls that they'd unexpectedly became hosts to.
Harry and Hermione especially talked with the two youngest.
Sweet little Katie who was five. She had brown hair almost as curly as Hermione's, and bright green eyes.
Harry and Hermione were stunned seeing this sweet little girl who looked like she could be their biological daughter. Harry almost wanted to ask someone if it was a prank, or if time turners were involved.
But she was a wonderful child that Harry knew that Hermione and him would easily be able to love as she was their own, when they were ready for that.
She was a muggle child who hadn't showed any signs of magic. At least not yet.
The other youngest of the girls was a lovely little one named Heather who had just turned 6. She had long black hair and dark but warm brown eyes.
Harry thought that she could easily pass for their biological daughter as well, just with Harry's hair and Hermione's eyes instead of vice versa.
She was also a very sweet girl as well as very bright. She was a muggle-born witch. She said that she had her first use of accidental magic on her birthday. But that she didn't know what was happening.
She had been in an orphanage for the last few years. She didn't remember her parents, only that her mother had left her at the place.
And then a few weeks ago a man who had a rat like face had grabbed her when she was playing outside by herself.
Harry thought, "just one more vile thing Pettigrew has to answer for, kidnapping children, and most likely he was one of the scum that enjoyed 'playing' with these girls."
Harry and Hermione gave both girls reassurances that they were safe now and that they'd take care of them.
Katie had lived with her father and older brother after her mom had left them. But then bad men had captured them and her.
Thankfully she no longer remembered the trauma she'd endured, but she knew that her papa and big brother were gone.
Hermione held the precious girl as she cried and she began to sing softly to her as her mother used to do for her when she was little.
Harry watched and listened at the touching scene as he held Heather and read to her from a children's book. He didn't think it was possible but he fell even more in love with Hermione in that moment.
He didn't think he could love her more than he already did and yet she kept surprising him more and more with things that just made his love for her grow beyond measure.
A little while later after they had given the girls sleeping draughts again Hermione took Harry to their room and they set on their bed.
Hermione started spending, "Harry I need to apologize to you for something that happened awhile ago but I've felt guilty about.
You remember second year when I apparently had a crush on Lockhart?"
Harry cringed at the mention of it but said, "yes, but it's something I've tried very hard to forget."
Hermione continued, "well I have to tell you, I never actually had any sort of crush on him. I pretended to be crush on him in a foolish attempt to make you jealous in the hopes it would make you interested in me romantically."
Harry was stunned but said, "well that explains a lot. I really could never understand how your could fall for a git like him. And I'll admit I was very jealous. I had already started to realize how much I cared for you even if I didn't fully realize what I was feeling until third year.
But I didn't think I deserved to have you as more than a friend and so I didn't say anything about how I felt.
And then in fourth year I was very jealous when I found out that you were going to go to the Yule Ball with Krum. And mad at myself that I didn't do as I should have and asked you to the ball myself the moment I found out there'd be one.
But I've gotten over that, especially since you told me that you only went with Krum as a friend and not as a couple. Although I'm still a little upset with myself for not having the courage to ask you to the ball myself as my date and not just as a friend.
But I'm focusing on what we have now and the future. As for the whole Lockhart fake crush to make me jealous, I forgive you completely my love.
After all, we were both still pretty young then and did more than a few foolish things."
Hermione hugged Harry tightly and said, "thank you Harry, I just wanted to get any past mistakes aired out so neither of us have to dwell on them ever again."
Harry nodded and said, "yeah you're right, and speaking of third year I wanted to ask you something about the second task of the tournament.
When I found out that you and Ron were missed that morning I immediately figured out that we'd be having to save a hostage. And the only thought I had at the time was that I had to get to the merpeople village as soon as possible to rescue you.
I never even considered you wouldn't be my hostage since I knew you were the one person I'd miss the most. I mean Ron was my best mate and all, but you were and are the most important person to me in the world.
So I was very surprised when I got to the bottom of the lake and saw you both there. I was really confused, I wondered if they'd given me two hostages. But then Krum showed up and got you and I took Ron and also saved Gabrielle.
My question is why were you Krum's hostage and not mine. How could you be the person he'd miss the most when you barely knew each other. And like you already told me you never liked him as anything other than a friend. Just because you went to the ball with him didn't make you the most important person in his life.
Or if it did then he was way more obsessed with you than he should have been."
Hermione answered, "well I accidentally was suppose to be your hostage originally. When Professor McGonagall called me and Ron to her office she told me that I was supposed to be your hostage.
But the one they had picked for Victor, his uncle who he's been close to, couldn't make it for the task. So they asked me to volunteer to be his hostage and that Ron could be yours.
I secretly wanted say that I wanted to be your hostage and not Victor's, because I thought the idea of you rescuing me was very romantic. But I pushed those thoughts aside and volunteered to be Victor's hostage. I even told him afterwards how I was chosen to be your hostage but only volunteered to be his when his uncle couldn't come.
He was disappointed but he said that he understood. He actually was jealous that I was chosen to be your hostage. Since that meant that I actually was the person you'd miss the most.
I kind of made it worse when I told him I had feelings for you. I had already told him when he originally asked me to the ball that I'd go with him as a friend. But that I wasn't interested in him romantically.
But I think he still hoped he could still gain my affections. But after I told him how I felt about you he knew that it was a lost cause."
Harry smiled and said, "well now I know. And as much as I hate you being in any kind of danger, it actually makes me happy that you were actually supposed to be my hostage, that you were chosen as the one I'd miss the most. Because that's been true since the day I met you, even if I didn't remember you from when we were little you've always been special to me. I love you more than I could ever truly put into words, you are my heart Hermione."
Hermione smiled a teary smile and kissed him soundly for a few minutes.
Then she said, "and I love you Harry, I love you more than even I could truly put into words. You are my heart and soul."
They just say for awhile holding each other in comfortable silence until Harry felt the wards telling him that Sirius and the others had returned. He let out a sigh of relief that they were all back and alive.
He and Hermione ran downstairs to where Sirius, Remus, Tonks, and Amelia's Bones had just come in through the front doors. And they had Mad-eye Moody and Kingsley Shacklebolt with them.
Harry rushed up and hugged Sirius and asked, "so how did it go, what happened? Did they you capture Voldemort?"
Sirius answered, "well we either captured or killed most of his death eaters. We even captured Bellatrix. And thankfully had no casualties on our side. But Voldemort managed to escape!"
A/N: Sorry about the cliff hanger but this chapter took awhile and I wanted to get it posted. I had originally planned to include Harry's birthday in this chapter but it was already pretty long so I've saving that for the next one. Hope you're enjoying this story so fat.
I'm also going to start working on a new story but I'll keep updating this one at least once a week.
The new story will be very AU from the point where Harry receives his first letter from Hogwarts. Many things will change from that point on.
Stay safe out there everyone with this heatwave.