All You Need Is Ron

by JamieParker

Inspired by the movie Edge of Tomorrow. Ron Weasley was brought up a Slytherin and so, believes that all Muggleborns are scum. But when Ron gets stuck in a time loop, he will be forced to work together with a certain, bushy-haired witch and her famous best friend. A story about love, heroism and choices. Mostly canon-compliant. AU.

8. Chapter 8

A/N: Hi there. I know it's been years. Honestly, I was going through some tough times, the least of it was losing my job and writing HP fanfiction wasn't top on my list. There were times when I was free and tried to get back to it but it never really took off. I apologise for leaving for so long. Anyway, I got a new job now, and with more free time, I thought of returning to HP fanfic. To be honest, it was a conversation I had with some people over Ron in HP and let's just say it led to an argument which brought me back to this story.

Looking back, I cringe at all the grammar mistakes I made so please overlook them if you can. Furthermore, reading back made me realise there were some minor plot mistakes I made. Nonetheless, I'm not going to rewrite anything but there are a few things to take note of

This is an AU so although I try to stick to canon as much as possible, certain events in canon would be changed because of my story. Secondly, I'm going to add depth to more things especially the Horcruxes. I feel like being bits of Voldemort's soul and powerful Dark Magic, they have to be more dangerous.

Disclaimer: Only the story is mine. Nothing else.

CHAPTER 8: NEW BEGINNINGS

December 8, 1996

"Taking a nap, Weasley?"

Ron's eyes blinked open at the sound of the voice as he grasped the Firewhiskey bottle that had been slipping from his fingers. Having just escaped the stifling atmosphere of the Three Broomsticks on the pretense of trying to find Draco, Ron instead had taken a beeline to the woods overlooking the Shrieking Shack. Cursing himself for forgetting to bring his red potion bottle, Ron considered smashing his head on a rock to die which in his mind, would be much better than facing an indignant Tracey.

"Relax. I'm alone," said Daphne Greengrass as the blonde witch came from behind him. Giving a distasteful look to the fallen trunk that he was sitting on, Daphne pointed towards a broken tree stump before Transfiguring it into a stool.

"Right…sure you are," Ron replied as he whipped his head back and forth. Tracey and Daphne were almost as close as he and Draco and the sight of one without the other was rarer than seeing Hufflepuff students getting house points.

"Stop being an idiot for a minute and hand me that," Daphne exclaimed curtly before snatching the Firewhiskey bottle and giving it a swig. Glancing at Ron's dumbfounded expression, Daphne rolled her eyes.

"Got something on my face, Weasley?"

"No…it's just…what are you doing here?"

"Why can't I be here? Or do I need permission from you or Draco to be at your special place?" Daphne scowled

"No, this isn't our…never mind." Ron stammered before shaking his head. Not wanting to deny this opportunity, Ron snuck a glance at Daphne as the witch became distracted by the chirping of waxwings. To call Daphne beautiful would be an understatement. Her long blonde hair glittered against the winter afternoon as her facial features from the dimples on her cheek to her mesmerizing green eyes were as perfect as a girl could get. Not to mention her well-rounded breasts, long slender legs, and tight bottom.

Really, Ron? Really

Hermione? What the heck are you doing in my head?!

You do realise that Daphne Greengrass is a complete bitch who takes advantage and manipulates fools like you, right

Well…I mean… if she wants to manipulate me…

Did anyone ever tell you that you're disgusting, Weasley?

Only when they lie, Granger

Honestly, Ronald, you can do so much better than this blonde tramp.

Yeah, like who, Hermione, like who?

….

Hermione?

"Why do you keep doing that?!" Daphne exclaimed as Ron jolted out of his thoughts to see the blonde witch glaring at him.

"Doing what?"

"Zoning out like you're Goyle or something," Daphne replied as she handed Ron back the Firewhiskey bottle which to Ron's frustration, was near empty.

"Seriously?" Ron said as he flung the bottle to the ground. "There's just a lot going on in my life right now."

"Right." Daphne drawled. "Your life or Draco's? Because I notice that you two look like you're up to something and this isn't the usual pranking stuff you do on Potter and his friends."

"We're just dealing with family issues; you know with Uncle Lucius being in Azkaban. Or did you not notice that a certain Dark Lord is now back?" Ron retorted as his mind turned to Draco. The pair of them had snuck into Zonko's before Draco mentioned that he had to return to the castle and told Ron to return to the pub. Yet Ron had an inkling that Draco was waiting somewhere in Hogsmeade, probably preparing to reinforce the Imperius charm that he had put on Madam Rosmerta

"I'm sure you both are just devastated," Daphne replied with a sneer. Gorgeous or not, Ron's patience was starting to wane especially with the lack of alcohol.

"Not to be rude, Greengrass but what are you doing here?"

"Why? Must I have a reason for just spending some time with my best friend's boyfriend?"

"She's not my girlfriend," Ron replied hastily. "We're just…I mean…we went on a few dates…" Ron stammered as Daphne gave him a smirk.

"What's the matter, Tracey's not hot enough for you? Or not good enough for a shag? Cos Merlin knows she's been giving you plenty of hints."

"No!" Ron exclaimed frantically. "No, it's not her! It's me. I'm just…not focusing on relationships right now."

"Or maybe it's cos she's not a Pureblood…"

"No!" Ron snapped. "Who cares if she isn't?!"

"Interesting…" Daphne whispered as she stared at Ron curiously. "You've certainly changed, Weasley"

"Yeah, well…never mind. I'm tired of this conversation already." Ron said wearily as he got up to leave.

"Wait!" Daphne cried as she motioned for Ron to sit. "I'm sorry for needling you so much. It's just…there's something different about you this year, Ron."

"It's called growing up, Greengrass."

"Hah!" Daphne retorted before shaking her head slightly. "No, it's not that. I mean, yes, you certainly are more mature this year compared to prats like Zabini and Nott which let's face it, they're not a great standard for comparison but I've noticed things. Like when you attacked Zabini for what he said about Abbott."

"Look, if you're going to say that – "Ron spoke before Daphne interrupted him with a raised hand.

"I think what you did was gallant," Daphne said as she motioned for Ron to make space on the fallen tree trunk. "Zabini's an only child which is still no excuse for saying what he said but he doesn't seem to understand how painful it is to lose someone you love."

"Tell me about it," Ron muttered as Daphne smirked.

"Let me guess. Your sister still hates you?" Daphne said as Ron gave a nod. Letting out a weary sigh of her own, Daphne stared out into the distance while pushing her blonde hair to the side.

She's beautiful, isn't she, Ronald?

Yeah, which bloke wouldn't think so, Hermione?!

And she's pretty smart too, isn't she?

I think so. I mean…wait…why are you asking so many questions about Daphne?

You deserve to be happy, Ronald Weasley.

What the fuck does that mean?!

"…and well, we don't know what to do." Daphne continued to speak as Ron jolted out of his thoughts. "I mean, Astoria's my sister, and I love her but I get it, little sisters can be hard to deal with, sometimes."

"Yeah, totally!" Ron exclaimed nervously

"But we love them all the same." Daphne sighed. "And they love us. So just hang in there, Ron. She'll come around."

"Thank you," Ron whispered as Daphne turned to look at him. "For what it's worth, I hope Astoria and you will be fine. You're a good sister, Daphne."

"I hope so." Daphne smiled before rolling her eyes. "With regards to Tracey, I don't think it's going to be a problem. She has eyes for someone else as well. All I have to do is nudge her in his direction."

"Oh yeah, Travers," Ron said as Daphne frowned.

"Yes, Dorian Travers. How in Salazar's name did you know that, Weasley?"

"Errr… Tracey let it slip… you know…too much Butterbeer and all that!" Ron stammered as Daphne continued to frown at him before shrugging her shoulders.

"Sounds like my girl. Well, Weasley, by tomorrow, you can consider yourself a free man."

Yeah, right Ron thought as he smiled at Daphne. To his astonishment, Daphne returned it and Ron felt his ears going pink.

"You know, Weasley. I have something else I wanted to talk to you about."

"Okay…"

"Are you going to Slughorn's party?"

"What?" Ron blurted as his thoughts started to race. Only in a few timelines had he gone past this point but every time, Slughorn's party was never in them. Then again so too were many moments that Time deemed inconsequential to the timeline including this very conversation with Daphne.

"I take that as a no." Daphne continued. "Well then, I'm going because it would put in Sluggy's good graces and I heard he invites a lot of prominent people to his party. It's not my cup of tea but it would be beneficial to me in my future prospects. I could go alone, of course, but then, why would I?"

"I'm sure there are like a ton of guys who want to go with you," Ron replied.

"There are." Daphne shrugged. "But they're dull and honestly, I don't want to waste my time having to deal with gits who are trying too hard to impress me, which is why I want you to go with me. You seem too out of it to try to impress anyone."

"Are you asking me to be…your date?" Ron gaped as his eyes widened in disbelief

"If you want to call it that, sure." Daphne shrugged nonchalantly. "I'm indifferent to it."

I must be dreaming Ron thought as he felt his face burning slightly. It would be insane, in any Hogwarts male to turn down a date with the Slytherin Ice Queen. He noted that his body was trembling with excitement as he would whenever the Chudley Cannons won a match.

No, she really did just ask you out

Hermione, get out of my head!

Considering that I am a figment of your thoughts, Ronald Weasley, that power belongs to you. The real question is, what are you going to say to her?

I have to say yes, don't I? I mean, it's Daphne fucking Greengrass.

Well, I still think she's a bitch but you have to do what makes you happy. Go on, then, say yes.

Just like that? Aren't you going to like scold me or something?

For wanting to be happy? You deserve that, Ron.

I mean…yeah of course…then again you are in my head and not the REAL Hermione so you may say something different when –

Why are you hesitating? Tell her you'll go

But what if it affects the timeline? What if it changes things?

Then, you can change it back. What's the matter, Ron? I thought Slytherins are ambitious. I thought they take what they want.

Of course, we are! It's just...well…what if...

Ron, don't you want this? Ron? Ronald –

"Weasley! Hello! Are you there?" Daphne cried as she snapped her fingers in his face. "Stop daydreaming and give me an answer."

"You want me to go with you? I mean, seriously?" Ron said as Daphne let out a frustrated sigh.

"Yes, and if you make me say it again, not only will I change my mind but I'll make sure Tracey gets one hell of a love letter from you!" Daphne scowled as Ron held up his hands.

"Okok. It's just…this is so unexpected!" Ron cried as he stood to his feet.

"Still not given me your answer, Weasley." Daphne snarked as she crossed her arms. "What's taking you so long?"

"I'm just processing, that's all!"

"Well, use what little brain you have left and process faster!" Daphne spoke indignantly before giving Ron a curious stare. "Wait, this doesn't have anything to do with her, does it?"

"Tracey?" Ron said as Daphne rolled her eyes before standing to her feet as well.

"No, you prat. I'm talking about Granger."

"Hermione?!" Ron said as Daphne's eyes widened at the use of her first name. Cursing internally, Ron composed himself. "Oh please, like I want to have anything to do with the likes of her."

"She's going too, you know," Daphne spoke while smirking at Ron. "I thought you both would go together especially since you're part of that stupid helping house elves group. The party is a great place to get recognition for your organisation." Daphne said while making sarcastic hand gestures.

"Yeah, well, she's going with Potter, I think," Ron grumbled as Daphne took a step closer, studying his face.

"Do I detect a sense of bitterness, Weasley?"

"No!" Ron cried defensively. "I mean, I hate Potter and all but going to the party with a Muggleborn. Even Longbottom has more brains than that."

"So, nothing is going on with you and that Granger girl?" Daphne asked, clearly probing for an answer. Not wanting to give her the satisfaction, Ron turned away before picking up the Firewhiskey bottle.

"If you're going to spout nonsense like that, then we can just forget the whole thing," Ron spoke before feeling a hand gripping on his shoulder and spinning him around putting him face to face with Daphne. Ron's mind exploded at the contact and he desperately tried to keep his eyes focused on her emerald green eyes. Daphne gave him a sultry smile as her fingers ran into his messy, red hair while brushing against his ears. Ron could feel his heart pounding as Daphne pressed her large bosom onto his chest with the cold winter air making those feel perky and tight. Fighting desperately against his male temptations, Ron squeezed his thighs together while turning his thoughts to a nude Aunt Muriel who he had the unfortunate chance of seeing when he accidentally stumbled into the bathroom during one of the many Weasley reunions.

"I just wanted to see if what Tracey said was true. That you're pretending not to notice how close you and Granger are becoming." Daphne whispered as she pouted at Ron who felt himself growing stiffer by the second.

"No, we're just schoolmates having to work together." Ron whimpered.

"Good. Because I can't go out with someone who's a Mudblood lover." Daphne replied. Instantly, an image of a despondent Thomas Granger staring at his young granddaughter appeared in his mind. A wave of anger and disgust swept through him as Ron snapped back from Daphne who looked affronted by the gesture.

"Well, I can't go with someone who's a scarlet woman," Ron growled. "My answer is no, Greengrass. Get one of your fanboys to go with you."

"You're rejecting me?!" Daphne cried in disbelief. "Seriously, you?"

"Yeah, I know. Shocking, isn't it?" Ron replied curtly. "Like you said, I've changed. And I've no time for useless dates anyway. I've things to do and I can't be distracted."

"You're an idiot, Weasley," Daphne spoke as she glared at him. "You're never going to get another chance like this, you know? Not ever again!" Daphne yelled as she shoved him slightly out of the way before stomping off back to Hogsmeade. Letting out a snort, Ron stuffed the bottle into his robes before walking in the opposite direction.

Guess Daphne doesn't know about your powers, does she? If not, she'd realized how stupid a comment that was.

Well, well. Look who's back. Hermione Granger

Again, I'm a part of YOUR thoughts but never mind that. Are you sure you're not going to regret this? You could just kill yourself and repeat the day.

Nah, I'm good. The only thing I regret is not having a drink but I can get that from the Room.

Actually, you can't. According to Gamp's Law of Elemental Transfiguration –

Lalala I can't hear you!

Real mature, Ronald. Well, for what it's worth she is a bitch so you're not missing out on much.

Tell that to my penis.

Ewww Ron!

You know, I should probably stop by one of the bathrooms first. Need to…err…clean my wand if you know what I mean.

You're a pig, Weasley, you know that?

I'm a growing boy, Granger. This is what we do.

Still can't believe you rejected her. You're probably the only wizard who would.

I'm sure Potter would too.

Potter? Why Potter?

Cos he's into you. And you're into him. And that's how it's supposed to be, right?

Right, Hermione?

Hermione?

…

December 20, 1996

"Seriously?!" Hermione exclaimed in disbelief. "Are you sure it wasn't a dream, Ron?"

"Of course not!"

"Daphne Greengrass…THE Daphne Greengrass… asked you to Slughorn's party?"

"For the love of Merlin, yes!"

"Are you sure it wasn't an alternate timeline?"

"Just forget it," Ron grunted as Hermione placed her parchment on the table in front of her. Ron stretched himself on the couch as he stared at the huge piles of unwanted and hidden things in the Room. Taking note of the time on his watch, Ron noted that they had another hour before Draco would make his way into the Room to fix the Vanishing Cabinet.

"Sorry. It's just that…it's Daphne and like almost every boy I know wants to go out with her… and that from what I've heard from Ginny…she's extremely picky…" Hermione said nervously as Ron shot her a glare.

"Right and why would someone as pretty as her would want to go with someone like me?" Ron scowled.

"No! I mean…of course she would…you're…well… you know." Hermione stammered as Ron noticed her cheeks turning the slightest shade of pink. Ron felt his heart skip once more.

Stop doing that!

"I'm what, Granger?" Ron smirked as he sat up. "Come on now, say it."

"You know what I'm going for!" Hermione replied as she folded her arms across her chest.

"Nah, actually I don't." Ron grinned as Hermione rolled her eyes. "Come on now. Say it."

"Well, don't let it go to your head, Weasley because you're still a rude, playful pig in my book -"

"Ouch!" Ron mocked as he folded his hands over his heart.

"- but well, you're resourceful, loyal and -

"Handsome? Sexy? A good prospect for shagging?" Ron interjected.

"-and you have your heart in the right place." Hermione continued, ignoring his words. "Which is more than I can say for Daphne. Besides, she's best friends with Tracey Davis. Wouldn't it affect her in some way?"

"Tracey wouldn't care at all. She's probably snogging Travers in a broom cupboard somewhere. Maybe even fiddling with his wand and Bludgers." Ron replied as Hermione shot him a disgusted look. Daphne had been true to the word and in the end, it was Tracey who broke up with him which made him the butt of Draco's jokes until Ron pointed out that he still had to deal with a suffocating Pansy.

"Honestly, Weasley, you're a pig," Hermione said as she walked back towards the mirror. For what felt like the millionth time that evening, Ron snuck a glance at her dress. Though she wasn't wearing the periwinkle blue dress robes from the Yule Ball that became a hit, her red and yellow dress robes weren't far off. Ron also noticed that she had styled her hair making it as sleek and shiny as Sleekeazy's Hair Potion would make though she had chosen to let her hair down instead of tying it into a knot.

"Don't be so quick to judge. For all you know, you and Potter might be doing the same thing later tonight." Ron replied before cursing himself internally for such a crass remark. Hermione's face had now turned bright red as she turned quickly to face him.

"Please! We're not like that!" Hermione retorted. "We're just going as friends, nothing more."

"Course you are!" Ron snorted. "Come off it, Hermione. Even if Potter is going as a friend, you definitely are not! I've seen you staring at that mirror longer than the books on the table. If that isn't a sign, I don't know what is."

"I have not been staring that long," Hermione replied huffily as a strand of her hair fell over her face. Letting out a frustrated sigh, Hermione turned to the mirror once more.

"Here," Ron said as he made a beeline towards the witch. Facing each other, Ron tucked the strand into its place.

"Thanks," Hermione whispered as Ron noticed the blush on her cheeks. Feeling his ears starting to heat up as well, Ron took a step back while giving her what he hoped seemed like a non-committal grin.

"I used to do this for Ginny," Ron said as images of a young Ginny giggling in her first-year Hogwarts robes appeared in his mind. Not wanting to deal with the painful memory, Ron motioned back towards the books

"So back to the Horcruxes…" Ron started to speak before Hermione interrupted.

"Ron, wait," Hermione said as she took a step forward. There must be something wrong with me Ron thought. He had been up close with Daphne Greengrass who was as close to a Veela as possible and yet it was this know-it-all bookworm that was causing heart palpitations in his chest.

"Listen, I know we've got a mission to do and all and yes, we are three Horcruxes down with four more to go if Dumbledore's guess is right but I hope that this means we're…friends?"

"Only if you admit that I'm better than you, Granger," Ron replied as Hermione gave a dry chuckle.

"I'm serious, Ron." Hermione sighed. "I know that you can't communicate with Ginny because of the timeline but I could put in a good word for you once in a while. She doesn't hate you, Ron. She's just…"

"Ashamed." Ron sighed as he threw himself onto the couch.

"She'll come around, Ron," Hermione replied, joining in on the couch. "Look, I know we can't do much because of the timeline but perhaps I could say some positive words about you."

Ron gave Hermione a half smile before shaking his head slightly. "Thanks, Granger but it's okay. I just want Ginny to be safe just like I want Draco to be safe. Whatever comes, I can handle it."

"We can handle it." Hermione corrected as she returned his smile. "I just wished we could tell people the truth."

"Sometimes it's better not to," Ron replied as an image of Thomas Granger flashed through his mind. "Sometimes the truth hurts so much and if it doesn't bring anything but pain, it's easier."

Hermione shook her head. "If there's one thing I've learned from all this timeline travelling is that it's better to tell the truth and accept things for what they are. You taught me that with the whole Neville thing. I should have just been honest with him from the start."

"Don't beat yourself up. Neville should have just told you how he feels" Ron said as he placed a comforting hand on Hermione's shoulder. "Although I do get it. Sometimes telling someone how you feel can be scary especially if you're unsure if the person will like you back."

"Yeah…" Hermione said as she looked away.

Probably thinking about Potter Ron thought before pushing the thought away. What is wrong with me?!

"Ron, are we friends?" Hermione exclaimed as Ron gave a start.

"What?!" Ron cried as Hermione turned to face him.

"Friends? I mean, the last few weeks after destroying that Horcrux, you've been a lot…well…nicer than usual. You don't insult me as much and when you see outside, you just…well…you're not as much of a prat as you used to be."

"Gee, Hermione. Thanks for that."

"And you've even been much nicer to me when we're alone. Like the other day when you offered to grab dinner for me and none for yourself?"

"To be fair, I ate in the kitchens," Ron said sheepishly.

"Not to mention the talk we had yesterday," Hermione said as Ron let out a subtle groan. Before last night, Ron had done a decent job keeping Hermione at bay after the diadem incident although the witch had been breaking down his barriers. However, everything capitulated as Hermione finally told Ron about her grandfather.

"Not even Harry knows that about me," Hermione said as Ron felt a flutter in his stomach. "I mean if I told my younger self that I would be pouring my heart out to Ronald Weasley of all people, she'll probably think I was Confunded or Imperiused!"

"And if I told my younger self that I would be spending my nights with Hermione Granger instead of Daphne Greengrass, I probably just keep slamming Bludgers into my head!" Ron laughed as Hermione joined him.

"Why though?" Hermione giggled.

"Why what?"

"Why did you refuse Daphne?"

Ron stopped laughing as he shrugged. "She just wasn't my type."

"Bollocks!" Hermione snorted as Ron let out an exaggerated gasp.

"Granger, you just said a bad word!"

"I'm serious. I mean, Daphne's quite pretty – "

"Try absolutely stunning with an amazing body."

"Whatever!" Hermione snapped as she glared at Ron. "I mean, yes exactly! You obviously think she's attractive so why didn't you go with her?"

"Hard this may be for you to understand, Granger, but I don't care much for her looks. I'm serious!" Ron protested as Hermione let out another disbelieving snort. Knowing the look on her face meant that she wasn't going to let go of the subject, Ron let out a sigh.

"Well, she can be a complete git at times."

"So? Since when does that stop you?"

"It does when she makes fun of the people I care about."

"Who? Ginny? Draco?" Hermione asked as Ron shook his head before pointing at her. "Me? What did she say about me?"

"She…well…she called you…the M thing." Ron said as Hermione stared bemusedly at him.

Images from the diadem raced through his mind as Ron raised his hands in exasperation. "I know, I know. Pretty hypocritical of me but she said it and that's when I realised that well, she may be gorgeous but she's…just not for me. Hermione…I know that this doesn't do much… and it certainly doesn't make up for everything I did or said…but I'm sorry for calling you that word all those years and just for every bad thing I did to you."

Hermione gaped wordlessly at Ron who placed his head in his hands. He was just so tired of everything. Countless days, weeks, and months he had to relive over and over again. Up against a ruthless opponent who seemed invincible to say the least. How much more could he take? Ron's thoughts turned back to the diadem and the story that Thomas Granger had spoken. Ron had recognised the description of the person who had threatened Thomas and ultimately nudged him into suicide all the while his granddaughter sat across from Ron completely unaware of her grandfather's fate.

"I'm sorry, Hermione," Ron repeated as the witch reached out with her hands and cupped his face. The soft touch of her hands gave him a warm sense of comfort as Hermione continued to stare into his blue eyes, studying his face.

"Ron, what happened?"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, like, what's going on with you? Did something happen in the previous timeline?" Hermione whispered sympathetically. "Did someone…die…or something?"

"No, it's nothing, Hermione," Ron replied as he tried to pull away, only for Hermione to hold his face tighter.

"Don't give me that. Don't…" Hermione cried in a broken voice. "Tell me, Ron."

"Granger, it's nothing, all right," Ron whispered back firmly. "Just leave it. Just go have fun with Potter."

Hermione dropped her hands, her face now turning red.

"Fine!" Hermione yelled as she grabbed her heels before throwing them aside. "Fine!" she yelled again as Ron watched in horror and confusion at the sight of Hermione intentionally running her fingers through her hair, making it a bushy mess once again.

"Hermione, what are you -" Ron started to cry.

"I'VE HAD ENOUGH!" Hermione yelled, startling Ron who gave a yelp and dropped to the floor before scampering behind the couch for safety. "6 years, Ron! 6 bloody years of having to see my best friend going through all the pain that Voldemort had put on him and whenever things get too hard, instead of talking to me and sharing me and confiding in me, he always has to put up his walls. Suffer in silence or whatever bollocks you call it and now here you are, doing the same bloody thing! Yeah, sure, you're the Chosen One, the wizard who can travel through time and is essentially immortal for the time being -"

"I'm not the Chosen One," Ron mumbled

"- but that doesn't mean it's easy for the rest of us!" Hermione continued, ignoring Ron.

"I mean…just…urghhh… honestly!" Hermione yelled as she paced in circles in front of him, mumbling angrily to herself. Thinking that the worst was over, Ron emerged carefully from behind the couch.

"Hermione, I…" Ron spoke gently as Hermione glared at him.

"Something happened with the diadem, didn't it? I knew it!" Hermione exclaimed as she saw the shocked expression on Ron's face. "It's the only thing that makes sense. After we've destroyed that Horcrux, you've been moping a lot more than usual, not to mention apologising to me all of a sudden after all these years?"

"What, can't I have a change of heart?" Ron said indignantly as Hermione let out a snort before running her hands through her hair once more.

"Please, Ron." Hermione pleaded. "Tell me."

Ron studied Hermione's expression before letting out a sigh. Recounting the diadem incident, Ron took care not to mention anything related to Thomas Granger. He noticed the change in Hermione's expressions who at times, looked shocked and others, completely horrified.

"Ron…oh, Ron," Hermione whispered as her hands fidgeted nervously. "How…how did we beat him?"

"Dumbledore." Ron lied. "Tom was being arrogant and Dumbledore took advantage. The main thing is that the Horcrux was destroyed. That's all that matters."

"No, it's not," Hermione said firmly. "Ron, no one could possibly understand what you're going through but it doesn't mean you have to go through it alone. What you did, facing him down in your mind, not to mention finding his Horcruxes is nothing short of amazing but I know it takes a toll on you. So, talk to me. I want to be here for you."

"Hermione, I…" Ron stammered, not knowing what to say. Who would have thought in one of the hardest moments of his life that it was the witch whom he had despised for more than five years who wanted to be there by his side? A wave of relief and gratitude flowed through his body as Ron smiled at Hermione before nodding.

"Thank you," Hermione said before pulling Ron in for a hug. Catching a whiff of her rose-scented perfume, Ron squeezed Hermione while trying not to laugh from the bushy hairs that were tickling his chin.

"No, thank you," Ron said as Hermione pulled away. "It's nice to know that someone is in your corner."

"What are friends for?" Hermione giggled as Ron smirked at her.

"So, we're friends?"

"Secret friends. You still have to insult me in front of your Slytherin friends so we don't blow our cover."

"No," Ron replied firmly. "I don't rag on my mates. I'll just pretend like you don't exist."

"And here I thought we were friends."

"So, since we're friends, we need to be honest with each other right, Hermione?"

"Absolutely."

"So then may I point out that you look like Lockhart just released another cage of pixies?"

Hermione let out a gasp before running towards the mirror. "Oh no, this is going to take me ages to fix. And I'm all out of potion not to mention, my dress is torn and where are my heels?!" Hermione screeched as she looked around, flustered.

"Really?" Ron said as he rolled his eyes. "Are you a witch or not?" Ron said as he pulled out his wand.

"Thanks," Hermione said sheepishly

"What are friends for?"

Hermione grinned as Ron returned the smile. Glancing at his watch, Ron's eyes widened at the thought of Draco who would be coming up towards the Room.

"Okay, we better get going. The timeline needs us out of here!" Ron said as Hermione let out a gasp.

"Ron, you were in Tom's memories! That's something we could use to hunt down the Horcruxes! Wish we could go into your memories but since they don't exist anymore, perhaps you should write things down in a diary. Recall everything that was said. That way, I can look through and see if Tom has left us any clues for us to follow, not to mention -"

"Save the conversation for later!" Ron said as he grabbed his and Hermione's things while nudging her towards the door.

"Wait, I have a spare diary in my room! Its cover is shiny orange like your hair so I think you like it." Hermione cried. "And I can get hold of a Quick-Quotes quill if I send a fast owl and -"

"Hermione!" Ron interrupted. "You have to get ready to go to the party."

"Wait." Hermione stopped in her tracks as she turned to face him. "You know, I think Harry might understand if…"

"Hermione," Ron whispered, interrupting her again. It was slightly tempting, the thought of having Hermione standing Potter up, not to mention doing research with her was not the worst way to spend his evening but then again, they were friends now. Friends who had each other's back. Friends who could share stories.

Friends who wanted the other to be happy and not miserable.

Even if it was with ruddy Potter.

"You have to go. You deserve this, Hermione." Ron sighed. "You've been a great help to me in my mission."

"Our mission." Hermione corrected him.

"Our mission," Ron repeated. "Take the night off and go spend time with Potter. After all, you two do end up together and we don't know how significant tonight could be. It could affect the timeline. So go, have fun with Potter, maybe even snog him." Ron spoke in what he hoped was a cheery and encouraging voice.

"You could still come, you know. Maybe see if Daphne is free?" Hermione replied.

"No thanks. Never in a million years."

"Not even if she's wearing a low-cut dress?"

"Then help me take pictures with Creevey's camera."

"Prat."

"Git." Ron countered. "Now, get going! I don't want to see you think of work even for a second or else it's fifty points from Gryffindor.

Hermione let out a giggle as they approached the door. Before exiting, Hermione turned towards Ron and gave him a peck on the cheek.

"Thank you," Hermione whispered before disappearing into the corridor. Dumbfounded, Ron touched the cheek that she had just kissed.

Friends, huh?

What…was that?

Just something friends do. However, I don't recall Draco ever kissing you on the cheek.

Ha-ha. You know, I think I prefer real Hermione to imaginary Hermione in my head.

That's cos real Hermione kisses you on the cheek.

She really did that, didn't she?

Yes, she did. But remember, she's just a friend. She's going to end up with Potter so don't get sidetracked.

I'm not! I know she's just a friend.

Yeah, just keep telling yourself that and it might be true.

Ron scowled as he brushed his thoughts aside. Feeling the peck on his cheek, Ron stepped onto the seventh-floor corridor as the Room disappeared. Lost in his thoughts, Ron did not catch sight of Draco walking towards him.

"Mate!" Draco cried as Ron's eyes locked with his cousin. "What are you doing here?"

"Dumbledore!" Ron blurted out frantically as he racked his brains for an excuse. "The bloody git was just talking to Herm…I mean Granger…and I about that stupid club. Waste of time if you asked me."

"Dumbledore," Draco whispered as Ron could see the former's thoughts turning elsewhere. Letting out a grunt to break him out of his thoughts, Ron smiled at Draco.

"Hey, you want to follow me down to the kitchens? Get some food?"

"Maybe later," Draco said as he stared at the empty wall where the Room of Requirement stood. "I have something of my own to discuss with Dumbledore. I'll catch up with you in the dungeons."

"Sure," Ron said as he clapped Draco's back. "Hope it goes well, mate."

"Me too, mate." Draco sighed as he attempted a smile. "Me too."

As Ron walked away from Draco, a thought went through his mind. Touching his cheek once more, Ron's face turned into a frown as he made his way back to his common room with a determined look blazing in his blue eyes.

…..

"Harry, m'boy!" boomed Slughorn, almost as soon as Harry and Hermione had squeezed in through the door. "Come in, come in, so many people I'd like you to meet!"

Slughorn was wearing a tasseled velvet hat to match his smoking jacket. Gripping Harry's arm so tightly he might have been hoping to Disapparate with him, Slughorn led him purposefully into the party with Hermione holding tightly with his other hand. "Harry, I'd like you to meet Eldred Worple, an old student of mine, author of Blood Brothers: My Life Amongst the Vampires — and, of course, his friend Sanguini."

Worple, who was a small, stout, bespectacled man, grabbed Harry's hand and shook it enthusiastically; the vampire Sanguini, who was tall and emaciated with dark shadows under his eyes, merely nodded. He looked rather bored. As Worple started to blabber something about a biography, Hermione's eyes turned towards a gaggle of girls who were staring with amazement at the sight of the pair of them holding hands.

That's right! Hermione thought possessively as she squeezed Harry's hand. She had almost gotten used to it, the likes of Romilda Vane and other girls giving her dirty looks. For a moment, it almost felt like she was back in her fourth year when girls were giving her similar looks just for being Viktor Krum's date to the Yule ball. Her thoughts quickly turned towards the incident at the library with Ron. An image of the wizard appeared, his messy red hair, lanky frame, and deep blue eyes containing a mixture of sadness and determination, all of which made him look quite -

"Hermione, let's go." cried Harry as Hermione jolted out of her thoughts, her face feeling quite warm.

Where the hell did that come from Hermione thought as she merely nodded while she and Harry squeezed past what looked like two members of the Weird Sisters.

"You okay?" Harry spoke as they reached the window at the back of the room which was noticeably less quiet and filled with wizards and witches behaving quite intimately towards one another. Seriously, Harry? Hermione thought as she stared at the wizard who looked oblivious to his surroundings.

"Yes, I'm fine."

"Can you believe the nerve of that git?"

"Err…" Hermione replied, racking her brains for a suitable answer. Thanks a lot, Weasley.

"Wanting me to write a biography?" Harry ranted as Hermione let out an internal sigh of relief. "Does he think I want to relive my parent's deaths again? Or talk about how Cedric Diggory died?"

"Of course not," Hermione spoke gently as her thoughts once again turned towards a certain red-headed wizard who was haunted by his parents' death. "It sounds like a terrible idea."

"Okay, Hermione, what gives?" Harry said as he flashed her one of his beautiful smiles. Her heart skipped a beat at the sight of the handsome wizard showing her concern before his face turned into a frown. "Has Weasley been giving you problems?"

"What, Ron? No, of course not." Hermione exclaimed as Harry's eyebrows shot up.

"Ron? What happened to the Awful Weasley or pig-headed, moronic snake?" Harry questioned as Hermione cursed herself internally.

"Sorry, it's not what you think. Dumbledore made us use first names in order as a step towards being amicable towards one another." Hermione said hurriedly as Harry looked dumbfounded at her. Before the wizard could reply, Hermione grabbed him by his arm.

"I'm thirsty. Let's go get a drink." Hermione cried as she grabbed goblets of mead and thrust them into Harry's hands. Unfortunately, her path brought her directly to the other side of the room where one of her least favourite Professors was standing.

Professor Sybill Trelawney was almost wobbling on the spot as Hermione could detect a whiff of cooking sherry. Praying that her tipsy nature would be enough to escape her attention, Hermione nudged Harry in the opposite direction. Unfortunately, this was the moment that Trelawney chose to escape her stupor.

"Good evening, my dears," Trelawney spoke while focusing on them with some difficulty. "Haven't seen you in my classes."

"Well, we're both not in your classes anymore," Harry replied politely as Hermione rolled her eyes.

"Oh, of course," said Professor Trelawney with an angry, drunken titter. "Perhaps you are now with Firenze. Or Dobbin, as I prefer to think of him. You would have thought, would you not, that now I am returned to the school Professor Dumbledore might have got rid of the horse? But no . . . we share classes. . . It's an insult, frankly, an insult. Do you know . . ."

"Let's go, Harry," Hermione whispered as she pulled his arm.

"Wait!" Trelawney spoke as she leaned towards Hermione, her breath reeking of sherry. "There's something about you, my dear," Trelawney said as her large glasses slid down her nose. "I can almost see it if not for the clouds."

"What clouds?" Harry asked, humouring the professor while Hermine shot a glare at him.

"The ones that cover my Inner Eye." cried Trelawney woefully. "Alas, my Gift can sometimes be…frustrating."

"That's not the only thing that's frustrating," Hermione mumbled as Harry snickered.

"Had enough?" Hermione whispered to Harry.

"Sorry," Harry whispered as he squeezed Hermione's hand. A gentle warm feeling surged through her body as she stared back at the wizard. Well, Ron did say we get together Hermione thought as she smiled back appreciatively at her best friend.

Harry Potter!" said Professor Trelawney in deep, vibrant tones, noticing him for the first time.

"Oh, hello," said Harry unenthusiastically as Hermione let out a giggle.

"My dear boy!" she said in a very carrying whisper. "The rumors! The stories! 'The Chosen One'! Of course, I have known for a very long time. . . The omens were never good, Harry. . .. But why have you not returned to Divination? For you, of all people, the subject is of the utmost importance!"

"Ah, Sybill, we all think our subject's most important!" said a loud voice, and Slughorn appeared at Professor Trelawney's other side, his face very red, his velvet hat a little askew, a glass of mead in one hand and an enormous mince pie in the other. The sight of the mince pie gave her stomach a rumbling.

"I'm going to get some food," Hermione whispered as Harry stared at her desperately to stay. As she made her way towards a platter of bacon sandwiches, she felt a firm grip on her shoulders.

"My dear." Professor Trelawney spoke. "You must come with me."

"Professor." Hermione cried as she stared longingly at the bacon sandwiches. "I'm just about to get some food."

"There is no time. Follow me!" Trelawney spoke in a dramatic voice. Torn between bacon sandwiches and the need to follow the rules, Hermione let out a disgruntled sigh as she and Trelawney proceeded out of the room towards the corridor. Along the way, Hermione was surprised to see Draco Malfoy being dragged in by Argus Filch.

"Quickly!" Trelawney spoke as she disappeared into a nearby bathroom.

"Professor, what is the matter?" Hermione cried as Trelawney appeared to pace up and down in front of the sink.

"My dear… I don't know how to tell you this." Trelawney spoke warily as she stared at Hermione.

"Tell me what?"

Professor Trelawney stared directly at Hermione, her eyes blinking rapidly as if trying to regain their focus.

"I have sensed it the moment you entered the room tonight. This shadow, looming ever so close…"

"Professor?"

"I would have said something earlier…." Professor Trelawney spoke. "But perhaps it is easier not to say."

"Say what?"

"You really wish to know, my dear? You really wish to know?"

"Yes!"

Professor Trelawney stared at Hermione with such despair that it felt like the latter had just come down with some terminal disease.

"No!" Trelawney cried out loud as she turned away, her face buried behind her raised arm. "It is too much."

"You're too much!" Hermione snapped, no longer caring about the tipsy professor. "Just tell me or I'll go."

"Fine!" Trelawney retorted. "My dear…" Trelawney spoke in a quivering voice

"Yes?"

"You have…the Grim!" Trelawney announced dramatically as Hermione gave her a blank stare.

"What?"

"I can see that you are in shock, my dear, but the Inner Eye never lies!"

Seriously?! The stupid Grim again! Hermione thought angrily before retorting. "I'm going back to the party." As she turned around and walked towards the door, Hermione was startled by a loud crash behind her. She whirled around to see Professor Trelawney collapsed on the floor, muttering indiscernible words to herself.

Great Hermione thought as she pulled out her wand. Before she could cast a spell, a harsh but clear voice emerged from Trelawney's lips.

"You cannot save him"

"What? Professor!" Hermione shrieked as Professor Trelawney's body started to shake on the floor.

"You cannot save him," Trelawney repeated. "For so has it been written, so it must be done. The path that lies ahead is full of darkness yet it is the only one he will choose. For so has it been written, so it must be done. When the moonstone ends, so will he. You cannot save him."

Hermione stared in shock as the witch's body let out a shudder before the misty, large eyes of Trelawney creaked open and stared at her.

"My dear, what happened?" Trelawney groaned yet Hermione ignored her. Her heart was thumping wildly in her chest as she tried to process everything that was said. She knew that she had just witnessed a prophecy similar to one that was made about Harry and his parents. Harry himself had mentioned before about how Trelawney had spoken during her prophecy on Peter Pettigrew and Hermione knew she just had a similar experience.

You cannot save him

Hermione's thoughts turned to the only person this prophecy could refer to.

Ron

…..

December 31, 1996

"Daddy, look!" cried the young girl as she tugged tightly on her father's coat. "What happened to it?"

"Quiet." said the tall, bespectacled man in the grey coat. Ron could see that the man pulling his daughter towards him before carrying her into his arms. At that moment, the man turned and locked eyes with Ron, his face a mixture of concern and anxiety. Ron noted that the other hand was still tucked in his coat, no doubt gripping his wand tightly. Not wanting to alarm the man further, Ron looked away. Ron heard footsteps walking quickly towards a dark alley before a loud crack sound was heard.

"Pity." Ron sighed as he stared at the sight that had bemused the young girl. Once a place of laughter and happiness, Ron could only stare gloomily at the boarded-up windows and doors of Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour. He had heard the rumors, of course, as to what happened to Fortescue. Dragged off in the middle of the night, unlikely to be seen again. Ron recalled how despite being a staunch opponent of Voldemort and his pureblood beliefs, Fortescue had never once treated him differently. Ron remembered how he and Draco had spent afternoons lounging about eating sundaes while talking about Quidditch.

"Focus," Ron whispered as he hit his fist against the wall behind him. He could not afford to sleep now, not until his mission was done. Instead, Ron forced himself to stare past the ice cream parlour and towards the real reason why he was at Diagon Alley. With the snow falling more heavily by the minute, it became almost impossible to spot the imposing marble building located at the intersection.

Ron moved closer towards the entrance and the familiar set of burnished, bronze doors. Despite being so close, he had no intention of going into Gringotts. Instead, Ron turned to his gold pocket watch. It was coming towards two as Ron stood behind a pillar, his eyes staring directly at the bronze doors.

Any second now

Suddenly, Ron could hear the creaking of hinges as the bronze doors began to open. Sensing his moment, Ron peeled across the road towards the pair that had just left the bank.

"Ron?!" cried Draco as Aunt Narcissa gasped. "What in Salazar's name are you doing here?"

"Hey Draco, I need to speak to Aunt for a bit."

"Ron." Aunt Narcissa hissed. "Are you insane? It's not safe!"

"This can't wait." Ron insisted. "It's urgent."

"What happened?" Draco asked as Ron shook his head. "You've already got stuff on your plate, mate. I'm okay but I just need to speak to your mother."

"Ron, dear, I'm sorry but this really isn't the time. Draco and I need to return to the manor." Aunt Narcissa replied. "You should go back home too. If Morgana finds out that you've left -"

"Did you know about Ginny?" Ron blurted out. "Did you know about what was going to happen to her back then?"

Ron could see his aunt's eyes widening while Draco wore a bemused expression.

"What are you talking about?" Draco asked.

"Draco, get back home. I will be back home soon."

"But why –"

"Draco, please!" Aunt Narcissa pleaded. "Just do as I say. Come, Ronald."

Ron gave Draco what he hoped was a reassuring nod as the wizard stared blankly at him.

As they passed a goblin wearing a uniform of scarlet and gold, Ron decided to press on.

"So, did you – "

"Not here." Aunt Narcissa interjected curtly without turning around to face him. Ron followed her blonde hair towards the set of silver doors. The famous set of Gringotts warnings seemed to glare back at him.

Enter, stranger, but take heed

Of what awaits the sin of greed

For those who take, but do not earn,

Must pay most dearly in their turn.

So, if you seek beneath our floors

A treasure that was never yours,

Thief, you have been warned, beware

Of finding more than treasure here

Ron followed Aunt Narcissa as they walked down the vast marble hall. He stared ahead past all the goblins working at the long, marble counters towards the doors leading to the vault passageways. Ron waited as Aunt Narcissa approached the goblin seated at the main desk.

"Bogrod." Aunt Narcissa spoke as the elder goblin seated at the desk looked up and gave her a grimaced smile.

"Madam Malfoy. Back so soon?"

"Yes, I need to check on something."

"Very well." Bogrod replied as he placed a piece of parchment into his drawer before pulling out a set of keys. "If you would kindly-"

"Wait." Aunt Narcissa replied as she turned around to stare at Ron for the first time since entering Gringotts. Ron stared back into her blue eyes which appeared to be assessing him on something.

"I want to go to the other one. The other vault."

"I see," Bogrod replied as he eyed Ron warily. "Pardon me, madam, but -"

"My nephew will be accompanying me." Aunt Narcissa spoke in a tone that suggested there was nothing more to discuss though it was clear that Bogrod thought otherwise. Begrudgingly, the goblin nodded.

"Well, in that case, we will need this," Bogrod said ominously as he pulled out a leather bag that seemed to be filled with some jangling metal. Ron stared at the unusual device as they followed the goblin into a rough stone passageway, filled with flaming torches.

"You understand, Madam that with the new security measures in place, this is the only way to your sister's vault."

"I am aware." Aunt Narcissa spoke as Ron's mind started racing. Sister could only mean Aunt Bella since it was highly doubtful that the other one would be able to afford such a vault in Gringotts. Ron had never visited the vault and he wondered how Aunt Narcissa could have had access yet given how close he had heard about the relationship between his two aunts, it was not surprising.

I'm going to the Lestrange's vault Ron thought as he felt the wind smacking him on his face. They were racing at great speeds on the cart through the labyrinthine passageways, sloping downwards all the time. Ron could not hear anything over the rattling of the cart on the tracks: His hair flew behind him as they swerved between stalactites, flying ever deeper into the earth. Just as it seemed like they were slowing down a little, a huge waterfall appeared before him.

"The Thief's Downfall." Bogrod cried as Ron spat out the water that he had accidentally swallowed. "It washes away all magical concealments. If there were any imposters, they would be as good as dead."

"What happens to them" Ron asked as Bogrod gave him a menacing smile before looking down towards the dark chasms below. Ron grunted as he turned towards Aunt Narcissa who seemed to be staring ahead, her face full of concentration. Once the cart came to a stop, the pair of them followed Bogrod into the darkness before another unwelcome sight stood before him.

"Bloody hell," Ron whispered at the sight of a gigantic dragon tethered to the ground in front of them, barring access to four or five of the deepest vaults in the place. The beast's scales had turned pale and flaky during its long incarceration under the ground, its eyes were milky and pink; both rear legs bore heavy cuffs from which chains led to enormous pegs driven deep into the rocky floor. Its great spiked wings, folded close to its body, would have filled the chamber if it spread them, and when it turned its ugly head toward them, it roared with a noise that made the rock tremble, opened its mouth, and spat a jet of fire that sent them running back up the passageway.

"It is partially blind," joked Bogrod "but even more savage for that. However, we have the means to control it. It has learned what to expect when the Clankers come." Removing what looked like a pair of small metal instruments in the shape of tongs, Bogrod began to rattle them. The dragon retreated meekly, the sound of it seemed to trigger some sort of fear. As they approached the vault's door, Ron could see the scars made by vicious slashes across its face and guessed that it had been taught to fear hot swords when it heard the sound of the Clankers.

"Quickly," Bogrod spoke as he pressed his entire hand onto the door. The door of the vault melted away to reveal a dark cave-like opening. Aunt Narcissa took out her wand and conjured up a magical glowing ball that lit up the entire vault. Ron could see that it was crammed from floor to ceiling with golden coins and goblets, silver armor, and the skins of strange creatures— some with long spines, others with drooping wings, potions in jeweled flasks, and a skull still wearing a crown.

"Imperio." Aunt Narcissa exclaimed suddenly as Bogrod's expression of shock turned to polite indifference with a befuddled smile on his face. "Go in and keep silent." Aunt Narcissa ordered the goblin who entered the vault.

"Are you coming, Ronald?" Aunt Narcissa spoke as she entered the vault without looking back at Ron's shocked face. Composing himself, Ron entered the vault as the door behind him started to seal up again.

"Do not touch anything." Aunt Narcissa spoke as Ron noticed Bogrod tucked into a small corner, his face staring at Ron's aunt like a dog hoping to please its master. "All of these items have Germino and Flagrante curses. Anything you touch will multiply and burn your skin."

"Why are we here?" Ron asked as he surveyed the treasure in the room. The vault was high and probably huge although the amount of gold and other items made it seem a little constricted.

"I wanted a private space to talk to you. With all the security measures in place, this seems like the best place to do so." Aunt Narcissa replied without missing a beat.

"You used an Unforgivable Curse." Ron pointed out as Aunt Narcissa merely smirked at him.

"In here, the magic is practically undetectable given how these creatures do not trust us in the least. Furthermore, given the new circumstances, I doubt the Ministry would be too bothered by such trivialities. Now, you wanted to speak about your sister."

"Not just her," Ron said as he stared down at the witch who he had looked up to all his life. One of the perks of being able to live multiple timelines was that you didn't have to beat around the bush.

"Did you threaten Thomas Granger?" Ron asked as his mind travelled back to the diadem's encounter with his parents' killer. He had recalled, with more clarity since Hermione insisted on asking him to write his recollections, the story that Thomas Granger had told his young granddaughter on his final night.

Aunt Narcissa appeared unnerved by the mention of the Muggle. "Who told you – "

"I found out." Ron interrupted. "Please answer the question."

"This is what you wanted to ask me on the eve of New Year's?"

"Call it a fresh start. I want the truth. Please." Ron added as the witch let out a sigh. Waving her wand, two metal chairs seemed to emerge from the depths of the vault.

"These are fine." Aunt Narcissa spoke as both she and Ron took their seats.

"I suppose it must be Dumbledore." Aunt Narcissa said before frowning. "Either that or the Granger girl. Draco told me of your little club."

"Doesn't matter. Please just tell me the truth."

"Very well. But you must promise to hear everything." Aunt Narcissa sighed. "I told you once before many years ago that despite the differences your mother and I have, I do understand what's it like to be a mother. In some ways, I respected her for it. When the Ministry agreed not to take action against Thomas Granger, it angered me that a man who blatantly murdered your parents in cold blood could walk free. So, I met up with him weeks later and we had a conversation."

"You threatened to hurt his daughter," Ron repeated as he recalled the description of the mysterious person who threatened to hurt the princess in Thomas Granger's story. Thomas had described all of Aunt Narcissa's physical appearance but what sealed the deal was the description of the wedding ring of silver snakes, emeralds, and an emblazoned golden M in its centre.

"I promised him I would." Aunt Narcissa spoke. "And I would have kept that promise as well if not for Thomas taking matters into his own hands."

"He killed himself."

"Justice."

"No," Ron replied as he felt his body started to shake in anger. "It wasn't justice. My parents' murder was an accident."

"An accident?" Aunt Narcissa spoke indignantly. "Who has been filling such ideas in your head? Dumbledore?"

"No, I have other sources."

"Who?" Aunt Narcissa demanded. "The Mudblood?"

"Don't call her that!" Ron snapped as Aunt Narcissa's eyes widened in shock.

"Why does it bother you when I call her that?" Aunt Narcissa asked suspiciously.

"It doesn't. I mean…if you call anyone that…" Ron uttered as Aunt Narcissa shook her head.

"No. There's something else." Aunt Narcissa spoke softly. "This Mu- Muggle…you care for her."

"What?!" Ron cried. "No, I don't."

"It's as I feared." Aunt Narcissa spoke as she got to her feet. "I will be telling Dumbledore that he will not be allowed to continue this little project of his and that stupid club. Morgana will back me up once I've talked to her."

"You can't do that."

"You're not of age yet, Ronald, or have you forgotten? The school must still respect the wishes of the guardian. And I will not have the name of Malfoy being thrown in the mud again. Do you not realise the dangers you are now in, cavorting with that Muggle? Do you not realise that the Dark Lord has returned?"

"And staying at Malfoy Manor?" Ron retorted as Aunt Narcissa gave him a fearful look before glancing at Bogrod to see that he was still Imperiused.

"Do not speak of it!" Aunt Narcissa spat. "You should have been ashamed, Ronald, spending time with the granddaughter of your parents' murderer and caring for her!"

"You knew!" Ron snapped as he scowled at his aunt. "You knew who she was! You knew that I was spending time with her! But you didn't want to say anything because you didn't want your secret coming out."

"I thought you knew better! I thought I taught you better." Aunt Narcissa retorted as Ron got to his feet.

"You thought wrong," Ron replied as he stared past her towards the gold. Something was calling out to him, in his head, a memory that was clouded over but getting clearer by the moment.

"Do you love her?"

"What?!" Ron cried in shock as he focused back on his aunt who seemed to be eying him with trepidation.

"I said, do you love her?"

"No!" Ron exclaimed. "She's just…not as bad as I thought she was."

"So, she's… your friend?" Aunt Narcissa spoke as she cringed at the word.

"More or less."

The response clearly rattled Aunt Narcissa as she dropped back into her seat.

"I knew this would come back to haunt me." Aunt Narcissa muttered.

"What do you mean?"

Aunt Narcissa gave Ron a mirthless smile. "You asked about your sister? I assume you are talking about that entire affair with the Chamber of Secrets."

"Yes!" Ron replied hotly. Though unnerved by the sudden change of topic, Ron was reminded once more about the danger Ginny was in back in her first year.

"Believe me when I say that I would have never put your sister in harm's way. You know how much I adore her, Ronald." Aunt Narcissa spoke wistfully. Ron was starting to feel uncomfortable. On one hand, he knew that his aunt loved Ginny dearly, especially since she had always wanted a daughter of her own. On the other hand, it seemed that his aunt was about to confess to something awful.

"Did you know?" Ron asked, his voice stammering. "Did you know about Uncle Lucius giving Ginny the diary?"

"Oh, Ronald." Aunt Narcissa said as she stared back defiantly at him. "It wasn't your uncle. It was me."

…..

Of all the responses, nothing could have prepared him for the truth.

Ron stared at Aunt Narcissa in complete shock as the latter tapped her foot, waiting patiently for the wizard to respond.

"You gave Ginny…" Ron whispered, trailing off. "But…but…you love her."

"I do love her, Ronald." Aunt Narcissa spoke. "It was a mistake."

"MISTAKE?!" Ron yelled as his voice reverberated around the walls of the vault. Aunt Narcissa hadn't moved and Bogrod was seemingly still lost in his thoughts. Ron could feel his anger rising once more.

"Ginny was nearly killed!" Ron shouted, not caring to bring his tone down. "A bloody mistake?!"

"Calm yourself, Ronald."

"Bollocks! A mistake. Oh right, you must think I'm an idiot! You could have killed my sister!"

"I was never targeting your sister. I was targeting the Granger girl."

"You-what?" Ron cried.

Aunt Narcissa motioned to Ron's seat. Ron scowled at his aunt before reluctantly taking his seat, his arms folded over his chest. Though he was still fuming, a part of him was curious to hear out his aunt.

"You must think I'm a monster, Ron but nothing could be further from the truth." Aunt Narcissa spoke as Ron grunted his disagreement. "Like I told you, I made a promise to Thomas Granger that if he did not receive justice, then I would take matters into my own hands. With his death, I considered it payment enough. That is until your first year with Draco when that ugly spectre rose its head once more. There you were, struggling in your first year with your family broken while she rose to the top, getting the best grades, helping Gryffindor win the cup, making friends, and living life to the fullest. When I saw her at King Cross's station running towards her parents while you were begging me to visit Ginny, my heart broke, Ronald. It wasn't fair."

"She lost someone too," Ron said

"Who? A grandfather?" Aunt Narcissa laughed with derision. "She still had two parents who cared for her not to mention the entire Weasley family as soon as she went into Gryffindor and became friends with Potter. I was still contemplating things when I received news that your two eldest brothers were insisting on you leaving our family. Do you remember the raids that happened at the manor four years ago?"

"Yeah."

"When Potter suddenly came to Hogwarts after years lost in the wilderness, a chain reaction started to happen at the Ministry. All of a sudden, people wanted to do what they believed was the right thing. Potter is a beacon of hope, Ronald and the people will follow him. Look at what they are calling him now. With Dumbledore by his side, the Ministry became very Muggle-centric. All Purebloods with dark pasts and those who seemingly colluded with You-know-who were suddenly being reexamined. The raids were meant to flush out any dark magic items and in turn, any dark wizards. Your two brothers took advantage and influenced Aurors to raid our home, hoping for some sign that deemed Lucius and me too dangerous to raise a child. We had to get rid of all the undesirable items quickly."

"So, you gave it to Ginny?" Ron exclaimed in disbelief.

"No." Aunt Narcissa replied. "Your Uncle Lucius wanted to open the Chamber. He felt that it was the right time but we needed a Hogwarts student. Your Uncle Lucius wanted to convince you, Ronald, to take the diary and open the Chamber but I had a better idea. I told your Uncle Lucius to pass me the diary and I would make sure it found its way into that Granger girl's hands."

"What?!"

"Ronald, just listen and stop interrupting. When your sister was sorted into Gryffindor, I found my opportunity. I gave her two diaries, one which was brand new and with a beautiful glossy orange colour, and the other was, of course, that diary. I wrapped it up and placed a charm on it to prevent Ginny from accidentally tearing the paper. I informed her that the package was a diary to be given to the Granger girl as a gift for having helped Ginny settle in. I didn't know how Ginny could open the package or why she would in the first place."

I do Ron thought. No doubt the diary had some sort of powerful pull just like the diadem. Its Dark magic and the soul of Voldemort inside would have no doubt broken any concealment charms placed if it meant getting to their victim. Ron knew firsthand just how aggressive and hungry Horcruxes can be.

"Giving the diary to Granger served two purposes. If she was successful, the Chamber would be open and she would either be dead or fingered as the culprit and would be handed a lengthy sentence in Azkaban. At the very least, possession of such a Dark Artifact would have her being arrested."

"But Thomas Granger had already died!" Ron yelled. "There was no need to do that to his granddaughter."

"She was a reminder of the parents that you lost, she was a rival to your sister when it came to Potter and she is a Muggleborn, Ronald or have you forgotten? Look at what she made you believe and think of her. Make no mistake, that Granger girl will be a force to reckon with. Top in her class with some calling her the brightest witch of her age. We could have another Dumbledore on our hands, one of whom might actually be interested in joining the Ministry and changing the way wizards and witches have lived their lives for centuries!"

"You're…insane," Ron exclaimed in disbelief as he stared back at his aunt whom he had often sought advice from and whom he believed in with all his heart. "She's just a girl trying to make it through school. So what if she has top grades? Ginny's not even interested in Harry anymore! She's moved on to Dean."

"To a Muggleborn!" Aunt Narcissa cried. "For the love of Salazar, Ronald, don't you realise how dangerous that is? Especially now? And who pushed her towards that Muggleborn? Who gave her advice and supported her? Your sister could have been one of us if she hadn't been under the influence of that Mudblood!"

"Stop calling her that!"

"Look at you." Aunt Narcissa spoke disappointedly. "Look at what you've become. You are a Pureblood of one of the Sacred 28. You and Draco used to be so close as well. You had his back and your sister and look at you now. Defending a Muggleborn."

"I still look out for them," Ron muttered angrily as Aunt Narcissa shook her head.

"No, you don't. You galivant with the likes of her and you are putting your entire family at risk, including and especially those two! You used to call her Mudblood as well, didn't you, Ronald? You used to speak out about the purity of our blood and how important it was to maintain it."

"My family means everything to me, Aunt," Ron spoke. "It always will."

"Then leave her. If you need my help, you will have it." Aunt Narcissa spoke as she took a step forward to touch his cheek. The gesture, so often a comforting one, felt cold on his skin.

"I can't," Ron whispered. "I won't," Ron stated firmly as he pulled away from his aunt. Aunt Narcissa nodded her head slightly as if she had expected the answer all along. She turned towards the contents of the vault, her eyes now staring at the treasure that lay before them, devoid of emotion.

"You can't save her."

"What?"

"I was going to let leave it alone. The Dark Lord has returned and he will win." Aunt Narcissa spoke in a voice that was as cold and grim as anything Ron had ever heard. "You can't save her because no one will be able to stop him. Even your precious Dumbledore was wounded badly in the battle at the Ministry which is something I gathered from very reliable sources. Potter is just a child and the Dark Lord will finish what he should have finished years ago. These are dark times ahead of us and anyone not on the right side will perish. That includes your precious Muggleborn friend."

Ron started to speak but Aunt Narcissa cut him off once more.

"But should by some miracle, your Muggleborn friend makes it out alive, I will personally ensure that you will never meet her again. Despite what you might think of me, you are still a Pureblood and my nephew. I do not wish to harm you in any way, dear, but if it means that I have to use an Unforgivable Curse on you just to get you safely back on the right track, then I will do it. Whatever it takes, Ronald."

As Aunt Narcissa pulled out her wand, Ron's instincts started to kick in. Kicking a gold plate on the floor into the air, Ron was amazed as the plate turned to six before landing on his aunt screamed in pain.

The curses Ron realized as he threw the chair in his aunt's direction. Reaching into his robes for the red potion bottle that would allow him to die, Ron felt a curse whizzed past his head, striking the stacks of golden trinkets behind him. Exploding from the back, Ron gave a scream as a mountain of gold struck his back causing him to take cover on the floor.

"My wand!" Aunt Narcissa cried frantically as she stared into the vault. It seemed that her latest move had backfired and the explosion had startled her enough to cause her to fling her wand accidentally across the vault. "Help me find it, Ronald! We need it to leave the vault!"

Ron had his retort ready when it got lost midway up his throat. His eyes had strayed upwards to one of the shelves up in the ceiling. He did a double take as he focused on the object that lay directly in his sight

It can't be Ron thought as he stared intently at the item, memorizing every feature of it. As he did, Ron recalled a memory that he had written days ago in the journal that Hermione had asked him to.

I am in need of placing a valuable item…Is yours up to the task, Lestrange?

Because there it was, just out of his reach for now.

A tiny, golden cup.

….

"Hermione, dear, there's someone at the door for you!"

"What?" Hermione cried as she turned her eyes towards her clock. It was half past eleven at night and unless it was one of her relatives arriving from North to pay them a surprise visit, the Grangers never had late-night visitors

"Who is it?" Hermione called out as she reached for her bathrobe to cover up her lavender pyjamas. "Oh crap!" Hermione cried as she accidentally hit her ink bottle which was now dripping all over the letter that she was writing to Harry. Crookshanks took this opportunity to leap off her bed and onto her desk, putting ink paw prints all over her parchment.

"Crookshanks!" Hermione cried in frustration. Looking at the mess before her, Hermione hesitated before pulling out her wand. Casting spells to clear and put everything in its place, Hermione made a beeline to the top of the stairs

"Mom, who is it?" Hermione asked once more.

"It's a friend from school," yelled her dad as Hermione froze in her tracks midway down the stairs.

Could it be Harry? Hermione thought though the idea didn't make sense. Harry was at Grimmauld's Place with the Weasleys and had access through their fireplace. He would have certainly sent her a Patronus or a letter to tell her that he was coming.

Unless this is some sort of romantic gesture. After all, it is New Year's and you know what happens at the stroke of midnight.

Hermione blushed deeply at the thought of Harry and her sharing a first kiss. The thought had occurred to her before and she had thought that it would happen during Slughorn's party although both Harry and her were distracted by other events. Glancing herself at a nearby mirror, Hermione let out a mental scream

No, he can't see me like this! Hermione thought frantically as she ran up the stairs.

"I just be a minute," Hermione yelled. "Bathroom."

"Crap! Crap! Crap!" Hermione whispered as she reached her dresser. "Oh, for Merlin's sake!" Hermione cried as she rummaged through her contents. Both Ginny and Lavender had given her witch beauty products which she had used sparingly though it seemed not nearly as often as her drawers seemed to be filled with parchment, books, and quill sets.

Cursing under her breath, Hermione pulled out her wand once more. Despite what Parvati and Lavender might think, Hermione did know a thing or two about beauty spells. Smoothing out her hair, adding a temporary blush to her cheeks, and clearing any facial spots, Hermione let out a sigh before grabbing a bottle of perfume she had gotten from Neville and pumping an excessive number of sprays.

"Oh God, why?!" Hermione coughed as she walked back towards the stairs.

"Okay, Mom, I'm here. So who is…AHHHHHH" Hermione yelled at the sight of the person seated in the living room with her parents.

"Nice pyjamas, Granger." Ron grinned as Hermione's face turned bright red.

"What...what...what are you doing here?" Hermione stammered as she glanced between Ron and her parents.

"Hermione, who is this young man?" asked her mother.

"And pray tell us why he is coming over to see you in the middle of the night." spoke her dad who was glaring daggers towards the red-haired wizard.

"Well, my name is – "

"Wait, I know who you are." Ned interrupted as he focused on Ron's red hair. "You're one of the Weasley boys. Are you the one that Hermione thought was handsome? The one she wanted to marry when she was eleven? You know the one you acted the fake marriage proposal to. What's his name…William, is it?"

"DAD!" Hermione cried with embarrassment as Ron shot her a half-amused, half-disgusted look.

"Really, Bill?"

"I didn't think he was handsome! I was young! He's just average-looking!" Hermione spoke quickly.

"Yeah right," Ron smirked as Hermione scowled at him

"Come on now, dear, even I thought he was handsome," Catelyn said as Ned raised his eyebrows at her. "At any rate, Ned, the boy is clearly too young to be Bill. I'm guessing one of the twins, Forge is it?"

"Yes! George. That's George! Hahaha!" Hermione laughed uncomfortably as she ran towards Ron, grabbing his arm.

"Oww, Hermione. You're hurting me!" Ron whispered

"Play along or I'm really going to hurt you." Hermione hissed under her breath.

"Wait, no, sorry. You said you were from Hermione's school but haven't the twins graduated?" Catelyn said as she narrowed her eyes at Ron.

"Yes, they have that joke shop at Diagon Alley." Ned chimed in. "Hermione, who is this?"

Before Hermione could speak, Ron interjected

"I'm Ronald Weasley. Ginny's youngest brother."

Catelyn's eyes widened as Ned continued to stare blankly at Ron. "Who?"

"You're the boy that's been bullying Hermione!" Catelyn cried as she glared at Ron. "Hermione has told us many tales about you and that despicable cousin of yours. Calling her names, humiliating her, and insulting her all the time."

"Okay, that settles it," Ned growled as he advanced towards Ron who leapt behind Hermione.

"Use your bottle. Do it now!" Hermione whispered as Ron shook his head.

"Not until I've explained everything."

"Oh, for the love of – "

"Hermione!" Catelyn cried. "Get away from that boy."

"Mom, please listen," Hermione begged. "Ron's not like that anymore. He's changed."

"Bollocks, dear." Ned retorted. "The boy only wants one thing or why else would he try to sneak in to see our daughter?"

"I came through the front door!" Ron replied indignantly

"Do you have any idea of the pain you've put our daughter through?" Catelyn spoke bitterly. "How she would write letters and cry about the things you and your cousin said about her? Making her feel like she's an outcast? Calling her that despicable name over and over again. If you had a shred of sympathy in your body, you would leave and never come back."

The words seemed to affect Ron as Hermione noted the wizard stiffen.

"I'm sorry," Ron said, his voice laced with sadness. "Your mother is right. This was a mistake. I should go."

"No, wait," Hermione said as she tightened the grip she had on his arm before turning to face her mother.

"Mom, that was what Ron was but he's really not like that anymore. He's changed and he's very sorry for everything. I've forgiven him, Mom."

"Good for you, dear but I haven't," Catelyn replied dryly.

"Neither have I nor will I ever!" Ned roared as he pulled Ron out of Hermione's grasp and pushed him towards the door.

"DAD!"

"Ned! Control yourself!"

"Get the hell out of my house!" Ned yelled, ignoring both the women in his family. "Get the hell out of my house and never come back! And you!" Ned shouted, rounding around suddenly on Hermione. "I want you back in bed. You and I are going to have a long talk about this, believe me."

"Dad, please!" Hermione begged

"Ned, calm down." Catelyn cried as Ned shook his head.

"He needs to leave," Ned ordered. "There's no two ways about it. Ronald or whoever you are, I want you to leave this house right now."

The look of resignation on Ron's face as he trudged to the door was what prompted Hermione to act in a way she had never imagined herself acting. Pulling out her wand and hearing her mother gasp, Hermione pointed it towards her father.

"Confundo," Hermione said as Ned's facial expression turned from anger to daze.

"What's going on?"

"Hermione!" Catelyn and Ron cried at the same time.

"Dad, you were just talking to my friend here about being a dentist," Hermione spoke as Ned turned to Ron with a slightly confused but otherwise happy look on his face.

"Right, of course. Take a seat, lad." Ned said as he beckoned Ron towards the sofa.

"I need to talk to Mom. Just stay with him, will you?" Hermione pleaded as Ron nodded before joining Hermione's father in the living.

"Mom," Hermione said as she walked into the kitchen, followed by a shocked and disappointed Catelyn Granger.

"Hermione, what on earth are you doing? Using magic against us?" Catelyn scolded as Hermione cringed under her mother's disapproving tone. "I thought you weren't able to use magic outside of school."

"I can if I'm of age. Which I am." Hermione replied meekly as Catelyn threw her arms in frustration.

"This is completely unacceptable, Hermione. I just can't…I'm…I'm at a loss for words. Oh, for heaven's sake!" Catelyn cried as she spied the piles of dirty dishes in the sink. "Can't your father just clean up for once in his life?!"

"Mom…" Hermione began to speak only to bite her lip at her mother's raised hand.

"What spell did you use on your father? Is it dangerous?"

"Of course not!" Hermione exclaimed. "I would never use magic to hurt you or Dad. It's just a temporary spell that causes temporary confusion. I'm sorry."

"I want you to promise me, Hermione Jean Granger, right here and now. You are never allowed to use magic on myself and your father."

"Mom, I – "

"I want your word, Hermione."

"Yes, Mom," Hermione said. "I'm sorry. I was just desperate."

"Desperate enough to not let your father throw this boy out of your house?" Catelyn scoffed. "The same boy whom you've been complaining about for six years?"

"He's not like that anymore, Mom," Hermione replied. "I can't really explain it but he's different now. You have to trust me."

Catelyn kept silent as she stared at the messy sink.

"Mom, you do still trust me, right?" Hermione whispered hesitantly

"Oh, Hermione," Catelyn said as she touched her daughter's cheek. "Of course, I trust you. It's just…I'm concerned about you. I'm not an idiot, Hermione. I know something is happening in your world. I do read those wizarding papers that you think you're hiding from me. Not to mention, your professor does keep me updated as well."

"Professor McGonagall?" Hermione said as Catelyn nodded.

"She tells me that you have a bright future ahead of you, especially in your world. I just hope that whatever is going on with you, you keep me informed when you can and know that even though I may not be as magical or talented as you are, I am still your mother and I love you very much."

"Oh, Mom. I love you too." Hermione sniffed as Catelyn pulled her into a hug.

"Now, I suppose you want some time alone with this Ronald?" Catelyn said once she had released her arms. "I thought you were into Harry, dear?"

"I am! Mom, I am into Harry!" Hermione protested as Catelyn smirked at her daughter. "Ron and I are just friends. I don't…I mean…he and I…aren't together like that." Hermione stammered as her face started to feel hot once more.

"Right." Catelyn rolled her eyes. "It's not like your face is red or anything."

"MOM!"

"Relax, dear." Catelyn chuckled. "I mean I get it. The whole bad boy persona. It's like when you were in nursery, you always had a thing for boys who would make fun of your bushy hair."

"No! Ron's not a bad boy. More like a lazy, sarcastic prat if anything."

"Is that why you straightened your hair and cleared your face?" Catelyn grinned

"Urghh, I thought it was Harry!"

"Well, be it Harry or Ron, you may go upstairs to your room but I want the door open, Hermione, understood?" Catelyn said firmly as Hermione nodded

"Mom, you don't have to worry. I don't know why he's here but trust me, nothing is going on between Ron and me."

"That's what I told my father about Ned and I and look where we're at. Speaking of your father, let's go rescue your…friend." Catelyn said as she made air quotes with her fingers.

"Urghh, Mom, could you not?" Hermione groaned.

"You're my daughter. Deal with it." Catelyn said as she glanced back at the sink. "You said the spell was temporary, right? And no harm comes off it?"

"Yes."

Catelyn thought for a second before responding

"Perhaps you could tell your father to clean the sink and while he's at it, give me a back massage?"

"Mom!"

"What? You've already cast the spell. Might as well make use of it before it wears off."

…..

"Can I come in yet, Granger?" Ron said as an angry voice called out immediately.

"I said, give me a second, Weasley!"

"Yeah, better hide those photographs you have of Bill. Or love notes from Gilderoy Lockhart." Ron chuckled as a frustrated growl responded.

"Okay, you can come in now."

"Finally," Ron said as he pushed the door open. "Whoa."

Having previously seen Hermione's room as a child, Ron recognized several items including the stuffed animals and the light blue walls though the white cupboard was no longer around. Her bed was tucked into a corner with a stack of books including the entire collection of Gilderoy Lockhart's books being used as a makeshift stand. Her quilt was the colour of Gryffindor with red and gold featured prominently. A brown wardrobe stood at its side with clothes packed to the brim including her Hogwarts robes. Next to the window was a desk and her Hogwarts chest with rolls of parchment and quills strewn across it.

"Hey!" Ron cried as something large with furry orange fur clawed him from under her bed before disappearing out the door.

"Crookshanks. She doesn't take too kindly to boys in my room."

"Ahhh," Ron recalled the ginger furball that had given him grief in his third year. Simpler times Ron thought as he turned to face the witch who was now seated on her bed glaring at him.

"Well, what are you doing here?" Hermione demanded as a strand of her hair dropped across her face. For the first time since he came, Ron took in the witch's appearance. Though disheveled and displeased with his presence, there was something quite attractive about the brown-haired witch crossing her arms in her pyjamas.

"Have you gone deaf?"

"I heard you the first time, Granger," Ron replied. "Just checking out your room. I'm surprised there aren't any pictures of my brother on your walls." Ron said though he noted, with an unusual pang in his heart, that there were pictures of Potter and Longbottom pasted around a collage board.

"I was like eleven back then and Fred introduced us. It was just a stupid, childhood thought. I got over it."

"Clearly. Looks like there's only one boy that you're thinking about much these days." Ron said as he picked up a picture of the trio. Snatching the picture from Ron, Hermione placed it next to her as she scowled at him.

"Please don't make me regret doing what I just did."

"Yeah, I didn't think you had it in you. Speaking of which," Ron said as he pulled out a letter from his pockets. "Came while you and your mother were in the kitchen. Ministry letter for use of underage magic. Relax, it's just a warning for me." Ron added as Hermione grabbed it from him.

"I forgot you're not seventeen yet."

"Confunding your dad. Got to say, Hermione didn't think you had it in you."

"Well, it's not like it's permanent. Besides, you can repeat this timeline and it is like it never happened."

"Unless I don't?" Ron said as he flashed Hermione a cheeky smile.

Hermione returned the smile. "Well then, I guess I just have to kill you. Not that it's going to be a problem since you still haven't told me what was so urgent and important that you had to visit my home in the middle of the night! Which, by the way, is another question. How on earth did you know where I live, Ron?"

"Ginny," Ron said without missing a beat. "I used to write to her here when she stayed for your sleepovers. It took me a while to find Heathgate though. Wanted to take a Knight Bus but with what happened to Stan Shunpike, there's not an option."

"I know." Hermione sighed. "Every day just seems to get worse."

"Where's Potter?" Ron asked as Hermione looked bemusedly at him. "Shouldn't he be here? I mean, it's New Year's Eve. Don't you Muggles have that tradition about snogging each other at midnight?"

"He's with your brothers and sister at Grimmauld's Place. Besides, we're not there yet." Hermione scowled. "Not that it's any of your business."

"You still haven't told me what happened at Slughorn's party."

"I told you; we weren't there long. Harry went trailing after your cousin and I had to spend time with Professor Trelawney."

"Right," Ron spoke before grinning at Hermione. "I figured since you obviously took the time to look pretty that Potter must have been getting some action – "

"You are an absolute pig, Ronald Weasley." Hermione cried. "And a complete arse! Now quit wasting my time and tell me before I hex your bollocks off."

"Okay, okay. Relax." Ron replied as he grabbed the door.

"Ron!" Hermione exclaimed. "My mom wants the door open."

"I know. Geez." Ron rolled his eyes. "Your mom said she wanted the door open but not how much. I'm just going to leave her a few inches." Ron said as he pushed the door four-fifths of its way. Turning around, Ron headed towards the chair and faced the witch.

"I found it, Hermione."

"Found what?"

"Helga Hufflepuff's cup. I found it."

"WHAT?!" Hermione yelled.

"Shhhhh!" Ron hissed as Hermione's mother's voice echoed from below.

"Everything okay up there?"

"Everything's fine, Mom!"

"Perfectly fine, Miss Granger."

"Why don't you cast that Muffliato spell that you showed me the other day?"

"And get another letter from the Ministry? No thanks!"

"It wouldn't matter. I can just reset time."

"Focus, Ronald!" Hermione said as she grabbed his hand, causing his heartbeat to spike. "Are you sure you've actually found the cup? We have to be sure."

"Always the tone of surprise." Ron grimaced as he pulled his hand away.

"I'm sorry," Hermione replied apologetically. "But this is great news! Where is it, Ron?"

"Lestrange's vault in Gringotts."

Hermione's face fell. "Gringotts! But…but…that's impenetrable."

"Not unless you had access. Which apparently my aunt does." Ron replied as Hermione's eyes widened. "She took me there. I had to talk about something private."

"What?"

Ron opened his mouth to speak before slamming it shut. "Nothing."

"Ron…"

"Look, just leave it, okay? The important thing is that we know where the Horcrux is. It makes sense, Hermione. Tom did mention in the past that he wanted a safe place to store his things. Lestrange offered his vault and Tom took his offer. Years later, when Tom needed a place to store his Horcrux, he must have thought of using the vault again especially considering how loyal my Aunt Bella is to his cause."

The mention of Bellatrix Lestrange caused Hermione to flinch.

"What?" Ron asked.

"Nothing."

"Hermione…"

"Look, just leave it, okay?" Hermione said as she closed her eyes.

"Okay."

"So have you told Dumbledore yet?" Hermione asked quickly. Ron shook his head.

"I wanted to tell you first because…well…I just felt like talking to someone about it. Besides, we need to come up with a plan. We can go next weekend. I'm thinking that if we use the leftover Polyjuice Potion that Draco still has, it should be enough to – "

"Wait, wait, slow down," Hermione said as she got to her feet and started pacing her room. "You realise we're going to try to infiltrate Gringotts right? This high-security, completely impenetrable building?"

"I have a plan, Hermione."

"A plan?" Hermione repeated.

"It's been known to happen!" Ron responded indignantly as Hermione rolled her eyes.

"We still need to do a bunch of research, Ron. We can't just go barging into Gringotts. There are passageways down there that literally might lead to the bowels of the earth. Not to mention, a ton of security measures that would send the goblins coming after us if we fail."

"And a dragon," Ron added as Hermione's eyes widened once more.

"A DRAGON?!"

"Bloody hell, Hermione!" Ron said as he leapt to his feet, covering Hermione's mouth with his hand. "Do you want your dad to come up here and skin me alive?"

"Mmmprgh!"

"What? Oh, sorry." Ron took off his hand as an irate Hermione glared back at him.

"Really, Ronald? There's a bloody dragon?" Hermione whispered.

"Language, Granger."

"Bloody perfect." Hermione cried as she threw her arms into the air.

"What's the big deal, Hermione? Or have you forgotten that I can literally travel back in time?" Ron said as Hermione looked dumbfounded. "We can literally keep trying over and over again until that thing is destroyed and we are left with only the locket, the snake, and Tom himself."

"But...but..."

"Admit it, you just can't handle failure."

"Excuse me?"

"I, however, am an expert on failing. I could fail like a hundred times if it meant just getting it right once." Ron grinned as Hermione rolled her eyes. "Come on, Granger. We can do this. We can destroy this once and for all and we will be one step to beating You-Know-Who himself."

"It's nice to know that your ego is intact." Hermione groaned before smiling at him. "Okay, I'm in. Let's do it."

"Awesome!" Ron said as he stuck his hand out in the air. "Come on, Granger, put it there."

"You know you're being cocky right?" Hermione smirked as she slapped her hand onto his.

"Yeah," Ron said softly before letting out a huge sigh.

"What is it?" Hermione looked alarmed at Ron's change of state.

"Hermione, I…" Ron began to speak as he glanced back at the witch. The conversation with Aunt Narcissa, despite no longer being part of the current timeline, still weighed heavily on him.

"We have to beat him. I need to beat him in order to save our family. Whatever it takes."

Hermione looked at Ron as anxiety built up inside her.

You can't save him

"Ron, I think – "

"I know I told Dumbledore that I was just going to destroy as many Horcruxes as I can." Ron interrupted. "But that's not enough. I need to keep everyone I care about safe."

"Draco and Ginny."

"Not just them," Ron whispered as his blue eyes found her brown ones. The way the tall wizard stood, his hand running through his orange hair while he stared poignantly at her made Hermione's heart skip

You know in this light, he's actually quite go-

"What are you going to do?" Hermione said out loud, interrupting her thoughts.

"I want to destroy all the Horcruxes," Ron spoke determinedly. "I won't rest until he's gone for good."

"All of them?" Hermione repeated with awe. "But how do we get close enough to the snake without him finding out? And Harry, he's got to be the one to beat Tom. What about time? Wouldn't destroying him alter the timeline?"

"I've been thinking about that," Ron replied quickly as it was now his turn to pace the room. "I've been thinking that once we've destroyed the cup and the locket, we just have to be done before the end of June. That's when Dumbledore and I die."

"What? Ron, that's not – "

"Listen, Hermione. I know I haven't given you many details but when the Death Eaters come into the school, that also means that all eyes will be on Hogwarts. Tom wasn't there. He would probably be holed up somewhere and I think I know where."

"Where?"

"Malfoy Manor." Ron grimaced. "If he's not there, we'll find him. Nagini would probably be close by. On that day, we can launch a sneak attack on him. Get rid of the snake and finish him off."

"But…you can't be there. Like you said, you're supposed to be at Hogwarts!"

"So are you. You, my sister, Draco, Longbottom, Lovegood, Professor Snape, Dumbledore, and I are all there. The only exception is – "

"Harry!" Hermione exclaimed as Ron nodded.

"Yes, Harry," Ron noted with excitement. "It's strange but I never saw him that night though he must have gone out with Dumbledore at some point. Maybe Dumbledore hid him somewhere. But it also means that Harry can help us. We can give him the sword of Gryffindor and ask him to kill the snake and even Tom himself. Look, if the timeline resets, fine but if it doesn't, we can help end this war."

"Ron, slow down," Hermione said as she gripped his shoulders before gently nudging him towards her bed. "Just sit here with me for a moment."

"Don't think I haven't thought this through?" Ron said as soon as the pair were seated. "I've been going through this over and over in my head. We won't tell Harry anything right up until the final moment. Then perhaps, we recruit a few others who are not important to the timel-"

"Ron, please," Hermione said as she grabbed his hands. Ron felt goosebumps rising from his skin as her soft hands pressed down on his rough calluses. Hermione exhaled softly as she stared at him. It was at this moment that Ron realised just how close they were. He could see her front teeth, unusually large back in her early Hogwarts years, but were now straight and gleaming. Her nose was small and slightly upturned making it one of the cutest noses Ron had ever seen. Hermione seemed to be staring affectionately at him and while it made his ears pink and butterflies fluttering in his stomach, Ron would not trade his position for anything in the world.

"Ron, I think it's great that you want to help bring down Tom. And I know that you, of all people, can do it." Hermione spoke gently. "But taking down You-Know-Who and his snake, that might just be a bridge too far. Furthermore, we haven't even dealt with the elephant in the room."

"Elephant? Where?" Ron said as he looked around Hermione's bedroom.

"Your death, Ron?"

"Why is my death an elephant?"

"Focus, Ron!" Hermione snapped. "We don't even know what happens to you once we've reached the end. You just talk about you dying like it's no big deal and…"

"Hermione, I didn't mean -"

"And now you want to go on this reckless mission to destroy Tom" Hermione continued, ignoring Ron. "We can get rid of three Horcruxes. That's more than enough! Tom will be weakened greatly and we can live to fight and finish him off another day."

"A day we can't ever get back, Hermione!" Ron replied. "At least we know that now I can reset the timeline. What if Potter can't beat him? What if Dumbledore is wrong? It wouldn't be the first time. My way would be without any risks."

"Without any risks?" Hermione repeated incredulously as she poked her finger onto his chest. "What if, on that final day, you die and because it's already so close to the end, Time doesn't reset? What if, we send Harry and Tom kills him but Time doesn't allow us to reset? Do you realise just how short a window we would have to pull this off? We still have to make sure that everything that happens on that day stays the same while hoping that the minor actions we take are good enough to not be variables for change. You would probably have to kill Tom as close to Dumbledore's death as you possibly can just so it would not affect the timeline."

"Look Granger, I get that we don't have all the answers or know if it's going to work but we need to at least consider the possibility. We can talk to Dumbledore, and see what he says. As for Potter, well, he has to face You-know-who sooner than later. And as for me…I'm sure we'll find a way to save me. I mean, come on, since when does Hermione Granger fail at doing something?" Ron quipped as he flashed Hermione a cheeky grin.

Hermione scowled at Ron. "I'm being serious. How can you joke at a time like this?"

"I have to." Ron sighed. "It keeps me sane."

Hermione squeezed his hands as she leaned forward to press her forehead against his.

"Can I tell you something?" Hermione whispered, her breath tickling Ron's cheeks.

"Go on."

"I'm scared, Ron. I'm really scared."

"Me too." Ron agreed. "But luckily being brave isn't part of being a Slytherin. We tend to run away into the dungeons or so I've heard."

"You would have made a great Gryffindor, Ron."

"Anddd you've ruined it, Granger." Ron sighed as Hermione let out a laugh. "Me, a Gryffindor? I couldn't picture it in a million years. You probably have a better chance of the Cannons winning the league."

"Don't sell yourself short, Ron. Oh!" Hermione cried as she pulled away, much to Ron's disappointment. "We're about a minute to midnight," Hermione said as she pointed to the clock. Ron let out a yawn.

"Must be more tired than I realised. So, what will it be, Granger? Are you with me?" Ron asked.

"Are you asking if I'm with you on your crazy plan?" Hermione said.

"Yes," Ron replied before shooting her a grin. "It will be our New Year's resolution. First, destroy the cup. Then, we'll find and destroy the locket, find and kill the snake and finally, we kill Voldemort and put an end to this nightmare."

Hermione gasped. "You said his name!"

"Well, I'm not afraid when I'm with you." Ron grinned as Hermione rolled her eyes. "Well, that and the fact that I am practically immortal for now."

"That's more like the Slytherin I know," Hermione smirked before shaking her head. "This may be the most idiotic and stupid thing that I've ever agreed to but the world may be ending so what do I have to lose? I'm in."

A loud chorus of cheers broke through the night as the clock on Hermione's wall struck twelve.

"Happy New Year, Ron."

"Happy New Year, Hermione. Well, I better be getting back home." Ron said as he made his way to her bedroom door.

"Wait," Hermione said as Ron stopped in his tracks. As he turned around, Ron felt a pair of lips pressed onto his cheeks.

"Be safe," Hermione murmured, her face looking positively pink as Ron felt heat coming from his ears.

"What was that?" Ron blurted as he touched his cheek gently.

"You know. Just a peck. Because it's New Year's. And we're friends!" Hermione said quickly.

"Right…friends…" Ron said as he rubbed the back of his head. "What's with you and trying to snog me on the cheek, Granger? It's like the second time" Ron said awkwardly.

Oh, fucking hell. Nice going, Ron! Ron mentally cursed as Hermione smirked at him

"I didn't know you were keeping count. How many other timelines have I kissed you on the cheek?"

"I…ah…" Ron stumbled awkwardly as Hermione burst out laughing.

"Oh, you think it's funny, do you, Granger?" Ron scowled

"If only you could see the look on your face." Hermione laughed

"That's only because you caught me by surprise. I mean, what if I did this?" Ron said. Surprising even himself, Ron took a step towards the witch, barely an inch from the witch. Hermione had stopped laughing. Instead, she was at a loss for words, her mouth slightly opened as she stared up towards Ron's blue eyes

"What are you doing?" Hermione whispered.

"I…just…" Ron trailed off as he and Hermione leaned towards each other. He could feel his heart pounding wildly like a maniacal drumline as his body trembled with heat and jangled nerves all mixed in one. Hermione, it seemed, was still staring him in his face, her eyes following the movement of his lips.

You can't save her.

The words of Aunt Narcissa echoed around his head as Ron felt a horrible, sinking feeling rising inside him. Twisting his head around, Ron gave Hermione a slight peck on the cheek.

Hermione appeared to be slightly dazed as he pulled away.

"There. Now, we're even." Ron said as Hermione stared back at him with a mixture of shock and…was that disappointment?

Did she…does she…

"You okay, Granger?" Ron asked.

"Huh? Oh yes, yes." Hermione smiled feebly at him. "That was…very nice and sweet."

"Oh, well, thank you," Ron replied as he gave Hermione an awkward nudge.

"You're welcome," Hermione said as she returned the gesture

"So…" Ron said as he avoided her eyes. "Can I ask a question?"

"What?"

"Was I better than Potter?"

"Anddd you've ruined it, Weasley. Besides, why are you so interested in Harry and me?"

"Well…err…it's because your relationship is important to the timeline. Can't have you fraternizing with the wrong person now, can I?"

"Right…" Hermione trailed as she raised her eyebrows. "Anyways…AHHHH" Hermione shrieked as Ron nearly jumped out of his skin. There was a loud explosion and a burst of dazzling lights coming from outside her window. Reaching for his wand and leaping at the window, Ron looked down to find Hermione's parents laughing as they set off fireworks in their yard.

"Are you insane, Dad?" Hermione yelled crossly. "You could have given me a heart attack."

"Like the one you gave me when you had a boy over in your room in the middle of the night on New Year's Eve?"

"He's got a point," Ron smirked as Hermione playfully hit him on the arm.

"Come down and join us, you two." Hermione's mother called as Ron spied what appeared to be a bottle of Firewhiskey in her hand.

"Yes, join us and you can continue whatever activities you were doing up there down here in the open."

"Ned!"

"Dad!" Hermione cried as she covered her face with her hands. "You have to be going home, right?"

"Not just yet," Ron said as he walked towards the door. "Besides, I want to hear more about this marriage proposal you supposedly wrote to my brother." Ron laughed as he fled the room.

"Oh no, you don't!" Hermione yelled as she chased after him.

….

As light filtered through his eyelids, Ron let out a groan as he tried to move his arms. All of a sudden, Ron felt his back give away as he flipped down onto something hard and wet. The sound of breaking glass followed as Ron moaned painfully. Something felt wrong. As Ron began to rub his eyes, a familiar voice rang out from somewhere close to him.

"Taking a nap, Weasley?"

Ron's eyes sprang open.

…End of Chapter 8…