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.

9. Chapter 9

A/N: Thank you for the reviews! I didn't expect much given how long I was away but you guys really showed me a lot of love so very much grateful for that. Merry Christmas to all who are celebrating and Happy New Year as well! This is probably my most personal chapter so far. I dedicate this chapter to Dolores O'Riordan and one of my favourite bands of all time, the Cranberries.

Please review this chapter if you can. Thank you so much for your support. I'll try to update as soon as I can. Happy New Year to everyone!

Disclaimer: I don't own anything, from the songs to any HP-related stuff. Only the story.

Chapter 9: Linger

Oh, my life is changing every day, in every possible way – Dreams, The Cranberries

March 1st, 1995

But I'm in so deep

You know I'm such a fool for you

You got me wrapped around your finger

Do you have to let it linger?

Do you have to, do you have to, do you have to let it linger?

"Taking a nap, Weasley?"

Ron kept his eyes shut as he fumbled for the switch. Come on, come on, play it.

"Shhh, don't disturb him, Daphne."

"He thinks we can't see what he's trying to do."

Ron let out an exaggerated yawn in response. His fingers finally brushed over the plastic button as he pressed it hard.

Nothing. What the –

"It doesn't work if it's not attached, Weasley."

Ron blinked his eyes open to see a smirking Daphne right over him. On one hand, he could see her twirling a set of headphones. Before he could retort, his eyes flickered down past her neck. Almost instantly, he felt himself getting stiff.

" Give it here, Greengrass!" Ron sat up from Tracey's latter, much to the latter's disappointment. Taking a moment to shift his weight, Ron squeezed his thighs in the hopes that no one would take notice as he sat next to Tracey.

"Wonnie" Tracey pouted as Daphne chuckled.

"Nice for you to get up from your fake nap," Daphne exclaimed as she reached for Tracey's Walkman. It had been a present from Tracey to Ron on his birthday. According to his girlfriend, the gift had been passed to her from her Squib father.

"What song were you listening to, anyways?" Daphne asked.

"I believe it was Linger." Tracey sniggered as Ron scowled at Daphne.

"Give it back, Greengrass."

"Look at you, enjoying Muggle things. What would Malfoy think?" Daphne mocked as she handed him the items.

"Firstly, eat dung, Greengrass." Ron retorted as Daphne flipped him off. "Secondly, Draco is hardly in any position to judge me. Did you see what Pansy gave to him last year?"

"What?" cried the voice of Theodore Nott, giving Ron a start. He had almost forgotten about the wizard who took it upon himself to tag along to the edges of the Black Lake with Hogwarts looking quite small in the distance.

"Well, I think it's sweet," Tracey said defensively. Daphne let out a snort.

"A necklace with the words 'My Sweetheart' on it? Yeah, seems more like a prank gift to me."

"Draco and I tried to pawn it off at Borgin and Burkes but even they thought it was too vile to be part of their collection." Ron guffawed as Daphne and Nott joined in. Tracey, however, looked hurt.

"I hope you won't do that with my gift, Ron"

"Course not," Ron replied quickly. "I just wished we could play it at Hogwarts."

"You can't. Electrical equipment doesn't work over there." Daphne replied

"I wanted to give you another gift but Dad made me hand you this one." Tracey continued. "I already have another Walkman and I wanted to give you some new Quidditch gear but Dad was quite insistent on handing over this one since he worked so hard to repair it and thought it would be nice to see how you respond getting this gift."

"Your dad made this with his own hands?" Nott sneered, earning scowls from the other three.

"Yes, Nott, her dad made this with his own hands. He actually has a job and contributes to society, unlike your drunk father who spends his time playing with himself." Daphne retorted as Nott's face turned red.

"Well, at least my father can use magic." Nott snarked as Ron's ears started to turn red.

"Good. Then maybe he can use it to put an Engorgio charm between his legs because I didn't feel anything when he accidentally brushed up behind me at Malfoy's party." Daphne countered.

"How dare you – "Nott started before Ron interrupted.

"Mate, you started this. So, either apologise to Tracey and stop being a prat or you can get your sorry arse back to Hogwarts."

Nott's face had started to turn purple as he appeared ready to get up and leave. Yet Ron knew that the only reason Nott tagged along was because of the beautiful blonde witch whose angry stare was the most smouldering set of eyes Ron had seen. Guilt started to creep in as Ron turned to peck Tracey on the cheek, all the while trying to force out images of her best friend out of his mind.

"Sorry, Davis," Nott replied reluctantly. "It's a… interesting gift."

"Smooth," Daphne mocked as Tracey nodded her head. Eager for a subject change, Nott turned to Ron.

"What's the song about?"

"What song?"

"Linger. And who sang it by the way?"

"What was it, Tracey?" Ron asked, turning to his girlfriend. "The Cranberries?"

"Yes." Tracey giggled as Nott and Daphne joined in while Ron stared at them bemusedly.

"What?"

"Only you Ron would pick a band named after food." Daphne laughed.

"I bet your song list is going all bands named after food," Nott added, eager to make an impression on Daphne. "What's next, Bread? Vanilla Fudge? Smashing Pumpkins?"

"Actually- "Tracey started but Daphne cut her off.

"Why do you even like that song anyway?" Daphne asked, ignoring Nott causing the latter to deflate. "Isn't it a breakup song?"

"Wait, you listen to it as well?" Ron exclaimed.

"You have to thank me for that," Tracey interjected, flashing a smile at her best friend. "Daphne was clueless about Muggle music until I came along. She actually has a great, singing voice."

"Please," Daphne spoke though she beamed at Tracey.

"She does." Tracey insisted. "You should have heard her sing in the shower."

"And I'm never going to do that again after you and Pansy decided to throw honey into the cubicle!"

"It was Pansy's idea. Honest!"

"I didn't even have my wand with me. I was covered in honey, Tracey!"

"Oh, please, don't stop talking."

"You're a pig, Nott. Like father, like son."

"Anyways…" Tracey exclaimed before another argument ensured. "I think the song is about a breakup but it's more than that. It's about a girl who still has feelings for her ex and can never get over them because some part of it is still lingering inside her."

"I think it's more about deceit," Daphne spoke as she took the Walkman and settled the headphones on her ears. "The girl was in a relationship with a guy, and felt strongly about him but he was obviously in love with someone else and didn't have the guts to tell her."

"Do you feel this way, Ron?" Nott asked mockingly. "Are you in love with another girl?"

"No!" Ron snapped as he diverted his eyes from Daphne. "I like the song because it has a nice tune. I like her voice. It's real and not fake like some blokes you heard about or that yapping from that Warbeck cheek."

"Well, I think it's pathetic," Daphne said as all eyes fell on the witch. "It's obvious this girl is desperate for this guy and instead of being strong and destroying his sorry arse, she's just crying in a corner about how deep in her own shite she is."

"But she's in love." Tracey protested. "She's fallen in love and she can't help it. You can't expect a person to just let go of her feelings, Daphne."

"But the prat doesn't love her, Tracey! They don't belong together. What's the point of pining for someone who you can't have? Writing a breakup song describing how you still have feelings is just pathetic and self-destructive."

"Whoa, who broke your heart, Greengrass?" Ron remarked as he and Nott shared a laugh.

"Why, you Ron." Daphne pouted sardonically. "Ever since you chose Tracey over me."

"What can I say? Ron has good taste in music and women." Tracey grinned as Daphne pretended to look hurt.

"Can I hear?" Nott asked as he extended his hand. Placing the headphones over his ear, Nott began to hum and sing.

"You know I'm such a fool for you…"

"Yes, Nott, we know you're an idiot," Daphne remarked, earning a scowl from Nott who listened for a little bit more before handing it back to Ron.

"It's catchy. I give it that. But what's with the last line?" Do you have to let it linger?" Nott exclaimed, emphasizing the pronoun.

"What?"

"She's blaming the guy for her feelings." Nott sneered. "What a joke! She's the one that fell in love."

"She could be talking about herself." Tracey pondered.

"Blimey, can't you all just enjoy the song?" Ron groaned. "Who cares what it means? Sure, it's sad but it's nice and that's all to it. It's my favourite song."

"Your favourite song is about a breakup?" Tracey exclaimed as Daphne gave him the thumbs-up.

"Nice going, prat."

"Tracey, I just like the song because it's nice to listen to, that's all!" Ron insisted. "It's not like I'm some sappy expert on love like Greengrass and Nott over here."

"You never know. I could be writing a love column in Witch Weekly someday." Nott said proudly.

"Yeah, probably on how not to pick up girls." Daphne scoffed.

"Speaking of Witch Weekly," Nott added, ignoring Daphne. "Did you all read Skeeter's article on Potter and Granger?"

Ron let out another groan. He had nearly gone an entire day without the Mudblood being mentioned.

"Where have you been, Nott? That's like old news!" Daphne replied.

"Yeah, Pansy showed Granger and Potter the article and Snape read it during class." Tracey laughed as Daphne joined in.

"I missed that? This is what I get for being sick the past week." Nott moaned as he slapped himself on the forehead.

"Still, you have to admit, Granger's got game," Daphne said as she checked her nails. "A Quidditch World Cup star and the Boy Who Lived? That's impressive."

"She's probably using a Love Potion." Tracy scoffed.

"Maybe for Krum. But not Potter." Nott replied as all eyes turned to him.

"What are you talking about?" Ron asked.

"Come on. It's obvious, isn't it?" Nott chuckled. "Boys and girls can't be best friends without someone falling for the other."

"Really?"

"Of course!" Nott exclaimed. "You can't be best friends with the opposite sex unless you're not attracted to each other and all relationships, friendships or otherwise, are based on attraction. Sooner or later, Potter and the Mudblood are going to fall for each other. Maybe more from Granger."

"If you ask me, she should pick Krum," Daphne said. "Dating a Quidditch Star who can be the Triwizard Champion is like pure gold."

"Potter has a chance of being a Triwizard champion too," Tracey said reasonably

Daphne scoffed. "Yeah, I'm sure his fourth-year knowledge would be able to get him far. Did you not hear what Snape was complaining about that day? Potter stole Gillyweed from his stores. Not to mention, without Granger helping him, he's done for. Anyway, the whole Boy Who Lived shtick is so over. You-Know-Who's gone and he's not coming back."

"You don't know that," Ron exclaimed.

"Either way, both of them are too good for Granger. Potter stinks -" Nott said as he pointed to his badge that Draco and Ron had created "-but even he can do better than that Mudblood. She's not even pretty, for Merlin's sake!"

"Obviously." Daphne agreed

"Yeah," Tracey added. All three turned to Ron who looked to be deep in thought.

"Ron," Tracey spoke, her eyes narrowed. "What about you?"

"Huh?"

"You think she's pretty?" Tracey said as she turned to Daphne

"Oh…" Ron said as he glanced at Daphne. Don't lie, mate. Tracey will know. Just play it cool Ron thought.

"Kind of." Ron shrugged, leading to gasps from the rest.

"Ronald!" Tracey cried as Ron's eyes widened in horror.

"I mean…pretty is so subjective…but you can't deny…I think you're prettier, Tracey!" Ron sputtered as Daphne and Nott howled in laughter.

"Oh, nice going there, Weasley." Nott gasped as Ron glared at him.

"Listen, Tracey -"

"What will Malfoy think?" Daphne exclaimed. "His cousin falling for a Mudblood."

"Mud…wait…who are you talking about?" Ron asked.

"Your precious Granger." Tracey sniped.

"WHAT?! Ewww… no, no way…" Ron exclaimed indignantly.

"Who did you think we were talking about?" Daphne enquired with an evil glint in her eyes.

"Errr…" Ron murmured as he racked in brains. "Fleur! The Beaubaxtons champion."

"Okay, that one I agree," Nott said though Tracey still looked slightly insulted. Fortunately, Daphne intervened.

"Okay, that's true. Come on, Tracey, even you said you wished you had her hair." Daphne added before Tracey could protest.

"Fine," Tracey said begrudgingly. "Don't think that lets you off the hook, Ron."

"Tracey, you know I hate her."

"Actually," Nott interjected. "It doesn't seem like it recently. I mean, correct me if I'm wrong, but you go awfully quiet whenever Granger's around."

"That's true!" Tracey exclaimed with a triumphant look on her face. "You and Draco used to take the mickey out of her but since we started this year, you've been ignoring her."

"Maybe Ron fancies himself a champion. I mean, she does have two Triwizard champions wrapped around her finger." Daphne smirked.

"Please, I would never date a Mudblood for all the gold in Gringotts." Ron spat

"Me thinks the wizard does protest too much." Daphne countered as Ron glared at her.

"Okay, fine! You want to know why I haven't pissed on Granger this year?" Ron exclaimed. Pinching his nose, Ron let out a sigh before explaining what had gone down in the Forbidden Forest when he went to confront Granger and Potter. As he expected, the trio scoffed at the idea of Granger possessing a time-turner.

"You kissed Granger?!" Nott looked stunned as Ron picked up a rock and threw it at the wizard.

"I didn't kiss her!" Ron snapped. "She kissed me and now she has a photograph that could ruin me."

"So? Get it back."

"Okay, Nott. Tell me, you genius, how am I going to do that?" Ron spoke sarcastically. "You think if I just ask her, she'll hand it to me? I even thought about going to Snape for help but you know how he is. Unless it involves Potter, Snape couldn't give a damn. I even thought of using the Imperius curse on her since Moody is teaching them in classes."

"You could go to Azkaban for that!" Tracey hissed as she smacked Ron on his shoulder.

"Relax." Ron sighed. "I said I just thought of it, not that I was going to do it. Besides, Moody would probably catch me and transfigure me into something awful, like a Flobberworm or a Mandrake or Nott…" Ron said, earning a scowl from Nott and giggles from the witches.

"Well, anyways, Granger got what she deserved, didn't she?" Tracey said once she composed herself. "Someone sent her undiluted Bubotuber pus inside a hate-mail letter. She'll probably be covered with boils all over."

"What?! When did this happen?" Ron cried.

"This is what happens when you spend all day listening to your stupid Walkman… sorry, Tracey." Daphne cringed under her friend's glare.

"Huh… you know, I do have that potion Ginny passed to me from Aunt Narcissa," Ron said as an idea appeared in his head. "It definitely will help heal Granger's wounds."

"I suppose you're going to trade her the photograph for the potion," Nott said, echoing Ron's thoughts.

"Or you could mess with her a bit." Daphne offered. "Be a Slytherin about it, for once. Instead of your usual boorish self."

"Hey, I'm not…wait…what does that mean… argh, never mind," Ron grumbled as he turned to Tracey.

"Want to help me take down a Mudblood?"

"Why should I?" Tracey said, still clearly miffed about what happened. Ron let out a sigh.

"Well, if you help me, I'll share with you what my Aunt Narcissa said to me at the party. And, since I have to run this by Draco so he doesn't get the wrong idea, why not we go for a double date next weekend? You, me, Draco and Pansy?"

"Really?" Tracey said, her eyes lighting up.

"Yes, of course."

"Yes, of course, what?"

"Yes, of course, Tracey."

"Ron!"

"I'm not saying it."

"Ronnnn!"

"Tracey, you know how much I hate to say it."

"Ronnnniieeeeeeee!"

"FINE!" Ron yelled in frustration as he scrunched his face. Tracey waited in anticipation while Daphne and Nott exchanged confused looks.

"Yes, of course…baby," Ron whispered the last word but to no avail. While Tracey threw her arms around him, Daphne made retching noises while Nott descended into hysterical laughter.

"You know I hate saying that. I don't do nicknames, Tracey. Especially baby" Ron emphasised with disgust.

"You do for the person you love," Tracey replied. "So, what are you going to do with Granger?"

"Let me think," Ron said as he reached for his Walkman. Daphne rolled her eyes.

"Oh, this is going to take a while."

Ron smiled and pretended not to hear as he laid his head on Tracey's lap. Before descending to his usual mental slumber, Ron smirked as he heard Nott trying to convince Daphne to join in his double date. As Ron tried to turn his thoughts to the latter, he found himself being distracted by a familiar, brown, bushy-haired witch and a kiss which still made him feel rather confused.

Oh, I thought the world of you

I thought nothing could go wrong

But I was wrong, I was wrong

….

December 8th, 1996

"Taking a nap, Weasley?"

Ron's eyes flew open as the bright light almost blinded him. Before he could react, Ron felt himself falling backwards. Crashing down onto the snowy ground, Ron let out a series of groans as he rose to his feet.

"Watch it!" Daphne cried as she pointed at the Firewhiskey bottle that nearly hit a rock. Yet Ron paid her no heed, his thoughts racing through his head like a Hungarian Horntail chasing its prey

What the hell?! Where am I?

I think you mean when am I?

Stop screwing with me! I'm supposed to be back in my bed, not outside in the bloody snow.

Not to mention you're back in the outskirts of Hogsmeade with Daphne.

What?

"Daphne…what the hell is going on?" Ron said as Daphne rolled her eyes.

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

"Oh, for Salazar's sake!" Ron groaned as he got to his feet. "Daphne, what day is it?"

"Obviously not yours."

"Fucking hell, Greengrass," Ron growled as Daphne looked slightly unnerved. "I'm not in the mood for games. What's today's date?"

"What's up your arse?!" Daphne snapped back, clearly not wanting to back down.

"Forget it." Ron sighed as he turned his head towards Hogwarts. "Here, I know you fancy a drink. Sorry for jumping down your throat." Ron said as he handed the Firewhiskey bottle to Daphne

Daphne shot him a curious look before taking the bottle.

"It's the 8th of December," Daphne exclaimed, confirming Ron's thoughts.

"Thanks," Ron replied. Before he could take another step, he felt Daphne grip his arm.

"Ron…are you okay?" Daphne asked in a tone that sounded almost concerned.

"No," Ron replied curtly before shrugging off the witch's hold and making his way back to Hogwarts. As he walked past Hagrid's Hut, he could see Luna Lovegood running around, checking out plants. The latter noticed Ron and gave him a wave but Ron ignored her, his mind still racing in circles

How the hell have I gone back in time by almost 3 weeks? Ron pondered as he entered the Entrance Hall. It didn't make any sense, given that Time had been sending him back to the previous time he slept. Yet a thought had occurred to Ron. Time had indeed sent him back further than a day once. Back in the earlier days, when he tried to warn Dumbledore about Violet Abbott's death. It had sent him back five days to his original set point at the Hospital Wing.

If anyone is going to have an answer, it will have to be Dumbledore Ron thought as he yelled "Acid Pops" to the stone gargoyle who stepped aside for him. Entering the office, Ron's face fell as he searched the large, circular room for the old, wizened headmaster. Most of the portraits were sleeping though one or two appeared to be staring at him with curiosity, the sight of a Hogwarts student arriving unannounced without an escort, was unusual. Ron noticed that the stand where Fawkes stood was empty, meaning the phoenix was probably with Dumbledore away from the office.

"Hey," Ron thought as he approached some of the portraits. "Do you know where Professor Dumbledore is?"

A portrait of a corpulent, red-nosed wizard snorted at him. "Why should we tell you? Where are you supposed to be, young man?"

"I'm supposed to be here. Professor Dumbledore told me he was meeting me here and not to be late." Ron lied.

"That's funny." cried a grim-looking witch with white hair and green robes. "Dumbledore never mentioned anything to us."

"Now, now." said a clever-looking wizard, with black hair, a pointed beard and shrewd dark eyes. "Don't any of you recognise the boy working with the Headmaster? Such a fine Slytherin lad. Don't suppose you know who I am? My name is Phineas."

The first wizard snorted again. "Only you Phineas would show such favour upon your own house."

"Pay no attention to them," Phineas said. "Unfortunately, my boy, the Headmaster is away for Merlin knows what reasons. I'm afraid you won't be meeting with him today."

"Great, just great," Ron muttered as he turned towards the door.

"Wait," Phineas said as he licked his lips. "We heard snippets of what you're doing for Dumbledore. Why don't you tell us more? Let's just say some of the things you and the Headmaster have been discussing are quite…intriguing."

"No," Ron replied as he caught a glimpse of Phineas's indignant face before leaving the office. He considered running to the Owlery to send a letter but thought better of it. After all, if Dumbledore was out discovering the location of Horcruxes, he would most likely be untraceable. As he reached the deserted seventh-floor corridor, Ron let out a string of curse words before punching the wall repeatedly.

Calm down, Ron. Just breathe, you git Ron thought as he tried to compose himself. Since Dumbledore was out of the picture, that left only one other person he could turn to.

…

"Ok let me get this straight," Hermione said as she stared at the frazzled, redheaded wizard before her. "You're saying that time sent you back 3 whole weeks and you have no idea why although this isn't the first time you've been sent back that far?"

"Yes, but the last time, it was only about five days. We're talking about three whole weeks, Hermione. I was celebrating New Year's for cryin' out loud."

"Okay, okay, let's calm down for a bit," Hermione said as she motioned for Ron to sit next to her on the couch. She and Harry had just returned from Hogsmeade before being accosted by Ron. She could tell that Harry did not like it one bit but, in the end, due to her persuasive skills, Hermione found herself alone with Ron in the Room of Requirement.

"That's easy for you to say, Hermione," Ron grumbled as he buried his face in his hands. The soft touch of Hermione's hand on his shoulder nearly gave him a start.

"Sorry," Hermione said gently. "Look, let's just try to figure this out logically. Okay, so the first step is that there must have been some time-altering event that occurred to send you back in time."

"Thanks, I worked that out pretty much myself."

"Pay attention, Ronald!" Hermione snapped as Ron raised his head to find Hermione glaring at him. The thought that another person understood his dilemma and was willing to help him out caused Ron to feel guilty. Forcing a smile on his face, Ron sat up straight, his eyes focusing on the witch berating before him.

"So, we know that this had to have happened. But according to you, we had no significant events in the past three weeks with the exception of finding the location of the cup Horcrux. Yet, you repeated a day with no consequences. It was only when that day ended, that you were sent back here. What did you do on that day?"

"I…er…stayed at home," Ron said as Hermione raised her eyebrows.

"Ron, you have to take this seriously! Everything you keep from me can be quite detrimental. Even the smallest things can have grave consequences. Besides, chances are, you're going to repeat this day anyways so it'd be like you never told me."

"Okay, fine. If you must know, once I found where the Horcrux was, I went to visit you."

Hermione looked dumbfounded. "But school hasn't started yet."

"I know. I went to visit you at your home."

"YOU WHAT?!" Hermione cried in horror.

"Your home, Granger. I went to see you. You invited me in although your dad wanted to kill me. Your mom allowed us to go to your room. We talked and then we celebrated the new year with fireworks in your yard with your parents."

Hermione looked shocked, her mouth gaping wide. "We went up to my room alone?"

"Yes," Ron replied before proceeding to describe her room in extensive detail, causing Hermione to turn paler by the second.

"You…you…and I…huh?" Hermione spluttered as Ron rolled his eyes.

"Granger, it's no big deal. Can we just continue?"

"It IS a big deal, Ron! I never had anyone in my room before!" Hermione snapped.

"Not even Potter and Longbottom?" Ron asked as Hermione shook her head. "We always met at Neville's place or Grimmauld's Place but no, my dad would kill me before letting a boy in my room, let alone you!"

"Well, he did because I managed to charm your mom." Ron grinned as Hermione shot him a look of outrage.

"Why…what…how?!"

"Okay, okay, relax. Remember what you said. It's like it never happened. So, let's just drop this, okay, Hermione?"

"Fine!" Hermione retorted before turning slightly pink. "Ron…er…did we…since we were in my room alone…did we…were we on my bed…and -"

"No!" Ron yelled, his face now red. "Nothing of the sort happened, okay? We just talked; I promise."

"Fine." Hermione sighed. "Okay so moving on, that thing with Hannah's mother, I have a theory. I think, similar to what Dumbledore says, Time doesn't act unless it's absolutely necessary. When it does act, it chooses the most pivotal moment of the change that was made to be altered. So, when you informed Dumbledore about Hannah's mother, it's possible Dumbledore took a few days to act on it which is why you could still experience those days. However, once Dumbledore intervened to save her, Time sent you back to the moment it considers to be the one that needs changing."

"The moment I told Dumbledore."

"Exactly! But I think for this case, it's different. Have you heard of something called the ripple effect?"

"Ahhhhh…nope." Ron shook his head.

"Well, this is sort of connected to that. Imagine you're on a hillside overlooking a river. Next to you a stick wedged on the ground, holding up some pebbles and rocks. You accidentally hit the stick and soon, tiny pebbles roll down the hill and hit the river, causing tiny ripples in the water but it doesn't change how calm and beautiful the river looks."

"Okay…"

"However, those pebbles were keeping a large rock in place and this rock rolled down the hill, and smacks the river, causing a huge splash and a big wet mess all around. I think this is what has happened. Clearly, you or something must have happened and while the consequences of that are not significant now, they become significant much later. So, Time, instead of sending you back a day to rectify the issue, sends you back much further than that."

"That is an interesting theory," Ron said as he paced the room. "The only problem is I have no idea what I've done. I mean, the last three weeks have been quite uneventful compared to other times."

"Then it must have something to do with Harry and Malfoy," Hermione said after thinking long and hard.

"Draco?" Ron gave a start. "What does he have to do with it?"

"Ron, I'm not an idiot. You could have involved Draco in this before we even started. You trust him much more than anyone else and he's your best friend. You did try to deflect by saying how you won't involve your loved ones but let's be honest, there's more to it, isn't there?"

Ron stared at Hermione. He was at a loss for words. Ron had tried his best not to talk about Draco's involvement but it seemed that the time had come for it to change. After all, sooner or later, Hermione would need to know all the facts. Heaving a sigh, Ron confessed the truth to Hermione whose eyes got wider with every reveal.

"Wait, so Harry was right? Draco Malfoy is a Death Eater?"

"Yes."

"And he tried to kill Katie and Neville?!" Hermione cried, incensed.

"He was trying to kill Dumbledore." Ron countered. "He didn't want anyone else to get hurt."

"And Dumbledore allowed this?!" Hermione cried, now fully outraged. "He put the lives of his students at risk just because he wants to save your cousin? That's just extremely reckless!"

"Hermione, I agree with you," Ron said gently as he tried to calm the witch down. "I agree but unfortunately, this is what Time wants as well. The good news is that Longbottom and Bell are both well."

"No thanks to him!" Hermione snapped. "Neville gets poisoned because Malfoy handed a bottle of poisoned mead meant for Dumbledore to Slughorn. So how did Neville end up drinking it?

"No idea," Ron said. "All I know is that it happens mid-January and at Slughorn's office."

"Why would Dumbledore allow something like this?!" Hermione cried. "It's totally irresponsible. You think that after Katie was nearly killed, he would put an end to it."

"Well, whatever the reasons are, Neville does get poisoned and because it was part of Draco's plan, it can't be altered," Ron replied.

"Okay," Hermione said, composing herself. "So, we know that there are people who can affect the timeline. "Malfoy, Harry, Neville, Ginny to an extent because of what transpired between you two and even Dumbledore given what he knows about you. So, it goes without saying that one of them must have started the ripple effect."

"I don't think my sister or Neville would be that significant. They're just like pawns to the bigger pieces." Ron reasoned.

"And as much as I am angry with Dumbledore, he knows better than to change anything," Hermione exclaimed. "Still, it wouldn't hurt to see if he does know anything. Maybe we could send him an owl. Anyways, if anything, I reckon it's probably Malfoy."

"What?" Ron cried. "Why can't it be Potter?"

"Because so far, Harry is oblivious to everything happening," Hermione replied.

"Or maybe you let something slip and Potter is acting on it?"

"Without me knowing? I am his best friend."

"And I'm Draco's best friend and cousin!" Ron retorted

"Fine." Hermione sighed. "So, it could be something Harry, Malfoy or even Dumbledore has done."

"So, what would I have to do?" Ron asked as Hermione thought long and hard.

"Okay, here's the plan," Hermione exclaimed. "Obviously, the first thing to do is to fall asleep and see if this day repeats. If it does, I think you would have to find out if the other three are doing anything that may have started a motion to change the timeline. If there's nothing, then we'll regroup and figure something out.

"Right." Ron sighed as he ran his fingers through his hair. "Okay, that sounds good."

"You okay, Ron?" Hermione asked as she looked at him with concern.

"Don't worry, Granger," Ron said as he forced a smile. "We got this!"

….

"We're totally fucked."

"Language, Ron!" Hermione cringed as Ron continued to press his head into the pillow.

"I'm exhausted, Hermione!" Ron yelled as he threw the pillow aside. "It's not bloody Potter, it's not Malfoy and I can't even bloody get to Dumbledore. I've repeated this day more times than I can count and we are no closer to finding out what's going on."

"Okay, then let's try another angle," Hermione said as she paced in front of the couch. "Is there anything else that happened? Anything at all? What was the last event that was particularly significant? Did we change anything that we shouldn't have?"

"We destroyed the diadem." Ron pointed out as a terrifying thought occurred to him. "Hermione, what if Tom isn't dead?"

"You mean Diadem Tom?"

"Yes!" Ron exclaimed. "What if Tom is just possessing me without me knowing? Like what you said happened to Ginny?"

"Ron…" Hermione spoke gently. "I think you would have realized if Tom was still here in your mind. I don't think that kind of Dark Magic would be hard to hide."

"But you said that Dark Magic can sometimes be undetectable, like how a Horcrux can feel normal until you spend much time with it!"

"Tell me then, Ron, are you feeling particularly homicidal?" Hermione asked as Ron stared bemusedly at her.

"Err… no."

"Would you want to call me a Mudblood?"

"Course not!"

"What are you feeling right now? Do you feel extremely angry or vindictive?"

"Well, I am a bit constipated if that's considered evil," Ron said as Hermione took a playful swat at him.

"Prat," Hermione smirked as Ron grinned back at her. "See? No, I think Diadem Tom is gone. Besides, if he was lurking about, I highly doubt he would have allowed to find out about the cup."

"Okay," Ron said, looking relieved. "So, if it's not Tom, why the heck am I sent back to this particular day?"

"For heaven's sake, that's it!" Hermione exclaimed as her eyes widened with excitement. "Why would Time send you back to this exact day? Something must have happened today that Time wants you to rectify."

"But nothing much happened to me today." Ron moaned as Hermione shook her head.

"There's definitely something," Hermione said. "Okay, try this, you remember bits and pieces about the original timeline. What happened today that you think might be important?"

"Nothing," Ron exclaimed with frustration. "Today's just an ordinary day like every other day."

"Well, what about something different that happened today that's not in the original timeline?"

"There's nothing," Ron said as he shook his head. "Back then, I was too busy worrying about Draco, hoping my sister would talk to me again, training for Quidditch, trying to find ways to break up with Tra- OH!"

"Oh?" Hermione repeated. "What's with the oh, Ron?"

"It's nothing." Ron shrugged. "I mean, okay, I didn't go to Slughorn's Party back then."

"Slughorn's Party is not for about a couple weeks. Why send you back today?"

"Because someone asked me,"

"Who?"

"Daphne Greengrass."

"Hah!" Hermione laughed, only to stop upon seeing the look on Ron's face. "Wait, really?"

"Always the tone of surprise," Ron grumbled.

"Why would Daphne ask you out?"

"Because of my extremely good looks? Or the fact that I'm tall, charming and sensitive?"

"Sensitive? You have the emotional range of a teaspoon."

"What's the matter, Granger? Jealous?" Ron smirked as Hermione scoffed.

"Pfftt! Jealous? Please!"

"So why can't Daphne ask me out, then?" Ron demanded.

"Because Daphne Greengrass doesn't ask boys out." Hermione retorted. "I mean, she's like…what…pretty?"

"Pretty? Try bloody gorgeous!" Ron exclaimed as Hermione rolled her eyes.

"Whatever. The point is she's got half the guys in the school pining for her so why would she ask you? What did she say anyway?"

"She was going to help me break it off with Tracey and I guess she and I might have bonded about little sisters." Ron pondered. "She did want a date to go to Slughorn's Party because she felt that Slughorn could introduce her to prominent people, help boost her chances when she's graduated."

"Typical Slytherin," Hermione muttered. "But why not go alone? Why ask you?"

"Seriously?" Ron replied incredulously. "You think a girl like Daphne would go to a party alone?

"So, you're what? A social escort?"

"No," Ron smirked at Hermione. "I'm more like eye candy."

"Honestly!" Hermione scoffed. "I supposed you jumped up on the chance seeing as how you're positively drooling over her like every other guy in this school."

"Actually," Ron said. "I said no."

"What?! Why?"

"Does it matter?

"Of course, it matters." Hermione cried in exasperation.

"I just didn't fancy myself up to it," Ron said dismissively as Hermione narrowed her eyes.

"Oh, so let me get this straight, this girl who looks like a Veela and who you consider bloody gorgeous – "Hermione said sarcastically as she made air quotes with her fingers "– decides to ask you to a party and you turn her down because you don't think you're up for it? Do you think I'm an idiot, Weasley?"

"Of course, I think you're an idiot – oww!" Ron yelled as Hermione swatted him on the arm.

"Stop mucking about and tell me!"

"Fine." Ron sighed. "She called you a Mudblood."

"What?"

"She called you a Mudblood and I didn't like that. So, I told her to fu…well…get lost."

"But you've called me that name for years."

"And I was wrong," Ron spoke. "We actually talked about this in a previous timeline. You were surprised then, too."

"Why?"

"Because you're my friend, Hermione Granger," Ron said as he offered a smile. "Besides, she's probably using me for something. Maybe because we're both Purebloods so she wants to continue her legacy."

"That's…" Hermione started to speak before changing her mind. "Well, that does make sense, I suppose. Not that you should, I mean…you're still young…and you've probably…unless you have?"

"Are you trying to ask me if I've shagged before?" Ron grinned as Hermione's face turned red.

"No! I mean…that's not what I was going for…"

"Well, no, just a bit of snogging." Ron grinned. "Though it wouldn't be so bad if Daphne Greengrass wanted to have my babies. After all, the Blacks did intermarry amongst siblings."

"Ewww! That's disgusting, Ronald!"

"My Aunt Narcissa told me…. wait…so am I supposed to shag Daphne?"

"WHAT?!"

"I mean, it is the only significant event that we can think of. What if this loop has to do with her?"

"I mean…" Hermione said as she racked her brains. "It seems really bizarre, though. Why would Time care for someone like Daphne? What does she do that's so important? I mean, okay she is an anomaly but still, it's just…"

"Weird?" Ron offered as Hermione nodded before throwing her arms in the air.

"But we don't have any other options," Hermione exclaimed. "So maybe try saying yes to Daphne's proposal and then go to sleep."

"With her?"

"You're pathetic," Hermione said furiously, striding away from Ron with her arms folded.

"Hey, hey, relax!" Ron cried out as he caught up to her. "I'm kidding, alright. Besides, we don't even know if it's going to work."

"It's the only thing that does make sense." Hermione sighed. "Besides what's the worst that could happen? You end up with a pretty girl and spend your days in a time loop?"

"You mean, like right now?" Ron said without thinking as Hermione looked stunned.

"What?"

"What?!" Ron laughed awkwardly as he pretended to look at his watch. "Oh wow, look at the time! I better get on that whole asking Daphne out thing. Don't want to be late. Thanks for the help, Hermione. See you when I wake up." Ron said quickly as he reached into his bag and pulled out the red potion bottle.

"Ronald Weasley!"

…..

December 10th, 1996

"I swear McGonagall just wants us to drown in parchment," Ginny grumbled as Hermione chuckled at her friend trying desperately to finish a three-foot essay. They were both seated in front of the fireplace with Dean who seemed more preoccupied with discussing Quidditch tactics with Cormac McLaggen, a wizard whom Hermione wished she could Obliviate out of her life.

"Like I said before, Dean, you got to put pressure on their beaters. Stop trying to go for the long pass and – "

"Hey, guys!"

The sound of Harry's voice sent tingles throughout Hermione who turned to see her best friend approaching them. Unfortunately, she also caught a glimpse of a retreating Neville who had run up the stairs, not even acknowledging the group. If not for Ron promising that things would be better between them, Hermione would have been beside herself. She missed Neville and the sight of McLaggen reminded her of the time she had Confunded the wizard for mocking her best friend.

"How is he?" Hermione whispered as Harry shook his head.

"I tried to convince him to play but he says he's not ready. Wish I had him though. He's a cracking keeper when he has confidence."

"I miss him," Hermione said in a small voice as Harry threw his arm over her shoulders. The gesture made Hermione's skin tingle again.

"Give him time. I'm sure he'll come around. Besides, he's not alone. He's been spending time with someone."

"Who?"

"Sorry, Hermione. I promise him I wouldn't tell but he will be okay." Harry said as he offered Hermione a smile to which she returned.

"Oei Potter! I'm assuming that means I'm going to be keeper against Hufflepuff?" Cormac exclaimed loudly to which Harry scowled.

"I told you I haven't made a decision yet."

"What's there to make? Longbottom hasn't been in it and he's training like a pile of dragon dung."

"Call him that one more time and I'll hex your face so bad, you'll be wishing for Marietta pimples!" Hermione said fiercely as McLaggen looked alarmed.

"What's your problem?"

"You're my problem! Why do you have to talk about Neville like that?"

"Why do you care? Didn't you dump him?"

"Ok, let's drop it," Harry interjected as Hermione looked ready to burst. "How is everyone anyways?"

"Harry, do you think we can start up the DA again?" Ginny said as she threw her parchment down in defeat. "I swear Snape and McGonagall are vying for who can torture us better with the amount of workload that they're giving us."

"Ahhh, I wish. But I think there's just too much going on this year." Harry smiled at Ginny to which Hermione felt a pang of uneasiness. She knew, of course, that the witch had a crush on Harry for years although she was now with Dean.

"Tell me about it."

Everyone turned to see Seamus groaning as he, Lavender and Parvati joined the group in front of the fireplace. If there was one thing that Hermione was glad about, it was that everyone seemed to get closer together, especially in the wake of all the dark and horrific events that were happening outside the walls of Hogwarts. Most of it, she felt, was due to the formation of Dumbledore's Army which she, like Ginny, missed being part of.

"I reckon we need a holiday soon." Seamus sighed as he clapped Dean on his back.

"That or a party," Parvati added.

"Speaking of parties, who here is going to Slughorn's?" Lavender asked as several hands shot up.

"Wish I could go," Lavender said glumly. She, Parvati and Seamus were not invited. Slughorn had extended invitations to her, Harry, Ginny, McLaggen and others he felt were potential prospects for the future and for whom he favourited greatly.

"We're allowed to bring guests," Ginny said as Lavender looked up. "Sorry, Lav, but I already got mine," Ginny added as she winked at Dean who beamed at her.

"What about you, Harry?" Seamus asked. "Who are you going with?"

"I asked Neville if he wanted to tag along but he's not interested," Harry answered. "I just thought of going with Hermione as friends."

"First time I'm hearing about this," Hermione replied. "What makes you think someone hasn't asked me yet?"

"Errr… I mean…" Harry stammered as Hermione narrowed her eyes. As friends, Potter? Really?

"You better do it right, Harry," Parvati exclaimed. "Ask us right and not just assume like we're some sort of last resort."

"I don't mind taking you, Lavender," McLaggen exclaimed as his eyes subtly travelled up and down the witch's body. Hermione shuddered slightly in disgust.

"You would?" Lavender said as she exchanged a look with Parvati who seemed to be sharing the same sentiments as Hermione.

"Oh, it's alright," Lavender said politely. "If Parvati can't be there, I don't think I will."

"What? Are you two tied at the hip or something?" Cormac chuckled.

"We're best friends." Parvati retorted. "We're not going to let anyone come between us, let alone a boy even if he is the backup keeper for Gryffindor."

Cormac narrowed his eyes. "Whatever. I got my eyes on someone else anyway."

"Who?" Seamus asked as Cormac smiled at him.

"Daphne Greengrass. I'm going to ask her to come with me to Slughorn's Party."

"Isn't she already invited? Why does she need to go with you?" Dean said as Cormac scowled.

"I plan to ask her to go as my date."

"And what makes you think she'll agree to that?" Parvati asked as she shared a look with Lavender who had burst into giggles.

"Well, I do have Ministry connections, I am the keeper for the Quidditch team which we will win and when we graduate, I am a great prospect for her future," Cormac said confidently as Seamus pretended not to gag.

"Right, and what about Voldemort coming back?" Harry spoke as nearly everyone cringed at the use of the name. "You do realise what's going on right now?"

"Of course!" Cormac snapped. "Why do you think I want Greengrass? She's from a Pureblood family, one of the oldest."

"Spoken like a Slytherin. The Ice Queen will be proud." Seamus grimaced as Cormac cocked his eyebrows.

"Come on, don't tell me any one of you blokes wouldn't want to go out with Daphne. She makes all the girls here look average. No offence!" Cormac added quickly as Parvati, Lavender and Ginny flung insults at him.

"Despite McLaggen being an absolute git, he is right," Seamus said after things calmed down. "Daphne Greengrass is beautiful. No words to describe otherwise."

"What do you think about her, Dean?" Ginny said, giving Dean a start.

"Errr… she's alright. Nowhere close to you." Dean said awkwardly as Ginny glared at him before letting out a laugh.

"It's alright. Even I can admit she's good-looking." Ginny said.

"She has gorgeous hair," Parvati added

"True, but she's an absolute bitch." Lavender said as all the girls nodded in agreement. "Good luck trying to nail down a girl like that, Cormac but she'll probably walk all over you once she's done with her current bloke."

"What?" Cormac blurted, echoing everyone's thoughts. "I thought she's single."

"Not anymore," Lavender said with a wicked grin. "My sources tell me that your precious Daphne has already found herself a date to Slughorn's party."

"Who?" Dean asked.

"Ronald Weasley."

"What?!" Hermione cried as others echoed yells of surprise.

"It's true, Hermione," Parvati said. "Padma overheard some of the Slytherin girls chatting about it in the bathrooms."

"But I thought he was with Tracey Davis."

"Not anymore," Lavender said. "Davis is going out with Travers now."

"Ahhh, Travers. His sister is truly magnificent." Seamus sighed before Lavender smacked him on the arm.

"Stop being a prat, Seamus," Lavender said before turning to Ginny. "You know anything about it? Ron and Daphne?"

"Lavender, you know Ron and I aren't on speaking terms," Ginny said as Lavender flashed her an apologetic look. "But I mean, he's always had a crush on Daphne Greengrass. Who hasn't?"

The thought of Ron and Daphne felt uncomfortable to Hermione. On one hand, getting together would make sense given Daphne's Pureblood status and yet, given the past weeks, Hermione had sensed something of a change with Ron. Though he was still crude and crass at times, Hermione could swear they were getting closer if not as friends, then as mutual acquaintances. It didn't surprise her when Dean, her fellow Muggleborn, echoed her thoughts.

"It makes sense," Dean growled. "If you ask me, they belong together. Both of them are a pair of Pureblood fanatics. No offence, dear." Dean added, noting Ginny's unease.

"I don't know about that," Lavender said. "I mean, Daphne's always been a Pureblood, Muggle-born hating bitch but Weasley?"

"You're kidding," Seamus exclaimed incredulously. "Have you forgotten how he and Malfoy are always taking the piss with us? What about the Inquisitorial Squad last year? He and Malfoy took points off us just because of Dean and Hermione!"

"I'm not saying he's changed." Lavender retorted. "But you have to admit he's not as bad as he was last year. I mean, he's even mellowed down."

Parvati smacked her head. "Just because you have a crush on him, Lavender does not excuse him for everything he's done to us."

Lavender turned bright red as Hermione felt a sharp pang hit her heart. What the hell? Hermione thought as Seamus rounded up on Lavender.

"You have a crush on that git?! Did you get hit on your head with a Bludger?!"

"Of course not! But you got to admit there's something mysterious about him. And Parvati knows how I like my boys."

"Yeah, him and Malfoy," Harry spoke for the first time. Hermione turned to see the wizard slide a battered book into his bag while shooting her an apologetic look. That stupid Prince book! Hermione thought angrily.

"You have to raise your standards, Brown," Cormac spoke. "You can't hang out with the likes of Weasley. No self-respecting Gryffindor would ever date a Slytherin."

"As much as I hate to agree with McLaggen, he's got a point," Seamus said as Dean and Parvati nodded. Hermione noted, however, that Ginny had a poignant look on her head as she stared towards the fireplace.

"First of all, it's none of your business who I date or what standards I have for myself!" Lavender retorted as Parvati beamed at her. "Secondly, if you're going to take a shot at me, why don't you take a shot at Daphne's? After all, she's the one who asked Ron to the party!"

"What?" Harry and Hermione exclaimed as others exchanged looks of shock while Lavender sported a triumphant look.

"Caught you all off guard, didn't I?"

"But Daphne doesn't ask boys out!" Ginny cried. "Why would she want to ask my brother out? What's the bitch up to?"

"Maybe she thinks he's cute too." Lavender offered.

"Please!" Parvati scoffed. "I highly doubt Daphne Greengrass would do anything without a reason. If you ask me, it's probably one of those ancient blood pacts where parents would push their children to marry those of a certain status. Like you said, Dean, they're both Pureblood fanatics."

"Maybe Weasley's marrying her to change his name." Harry offered as Hermione turned to him. "I mean marrying Greengrass would mean she gets a Pureblood husband and he gets to have a Pureblood family name."

"Yeah!" Seamus added enthusiastically. "I mean, think about it. The Greengrass family's name is going to die out since they've only got girls and I don't think they have any cousins. If Daphne marries Ron, she can convince him to give up his family name."

"You think my brother would do that?" Ginny asked the entire group. "You think Ron would give up our parent's last name just to marry Daphne Greengrass?"

The entire group fell silent except for Cormac who snorted.

"To marry the Ice Queen? Definitely. She's incredibly hot. Which wizard wouldn't want that?"

"Put a sock in it, McLaggen!" Dean snapped, his ears turning slightly pink.

"What? Am I the only one brave enough to say it out?" Cormac retorted. "What's Weasley got to lose anyways? His cousin's dad is in Azkaban, their family name ruined and you, Ginny, have cut ties with him. Why would you do?"

"I'm going to bed," Ginny said abruptly as she stood up quickly before fleeing to the stairs. Not wanting to leave his girlfriend alone, Dean shot Cormac a glare as he chased after her.

"What the hell is wrong with you, you prat?!" Harry roared once the two were out of earshot.

"What? I'm only speaking the truth." Cormac replied defensively.

"There's something called being tactful, Dungbrains!" Parvati snapped. "You know she still hasn't gotten over her brother yet and she may never will. But you won't understand that because you don't have siblings."

"Whatever," Cormac said as he stood up. "I'm not going to sit here to get insulted. I'll see you all tomorrow."

"Git," Seamus said once the wizard had left. "But you got to admit, he has a point."

"What?" Hermione cried as Seamus gave a non-committal shrug

"I mean, I suppose it does make sense on some level," Lavender said. "Pureblood families are notoriously adamant about producing male heirs to carry out their family name. Thankfully, I have male cousins but as for Greengrass, for some reason, they didn't have children after Daphne's sister, Merlin knows why. I can't see a scenario in which Pureblood families would be willing to allow their male children to choose their wife's maiden name. Besides, there's not many left so in a way, Ron is perfect for Daphne."

"Well, you spend time with him, Hermione," Parvati said as the other four turned towards her. "Do you have any insights?"

"Not really," Hermione said. "I mean, it's not like we spend the time discussing our personal lives."

"Yeah, Hermione can't stand being with him," Harry added as he offered Hermione a smile. Though the sight of having Harry smiling at her often led to butterflies in her stomach, for some reason, the butterflies seemed to be buzzing slightly differently today.

"Well, Hermione, if he does happen to talk about it, let us know," Lavender said as Parvati nodded enthusiastically.

"Yeah, and if he breaks up with Daphne, let me know so I can swoop in and rescue my future wife." Seamus quipped as the girls rolled their eyes. "What? I don't mind changing my name. There's too many Finnigans if you ask me."

"In your dreams, Finnigan," Lavender smirked. "Although, Hermione, if they do break up, would you mind letting me know?"

"I am not Ron Weasley's matchmaker!" Hermione snapped. "The last thing I want is to have anything to do with any Slytherin, let alone him!"

"Do you think Cormac is right, though?" Harry said. "About how Gryffindors can't date Slytherins?"

"I've never heard of one," Seamus said. "I mean, it's the whole Chamber of Secrets thing again. Gryffindors and Slytherins have always hated each other. Always have, always will. We may date Ravenclaws and even your occasional Hufflepuff, but a Slytherin?"

"Besides, who's ever heard of a Slytherin being good?" Parvati said. "If you ask me, you can chuck the whole lot of them into Azkaban!" Parvati wiped her face as Lavender threw an arm around her friend. Hermione knew that Parvati's parents had not wanted her to return to Hogwarts and had only done so because of their insistence. It was a mark of the dark times that the group of friends sat quietly in silence, each thinking of those they knew and had suffered due to the return of Voldemort. Remembering the mission that she and Ron shared, Hermione cleared her throat as she stood up.

"Sorry, but I think I should get ready for patrol. It's my turn."

"Are you meeting my sister tonight?" Parvati asked as Hermione shook her head. After she and Neville fought, Parvati had helped Hermione by asking her sister to do Prefect rounds with Padma while Neville would do his with Anthony Goldstein.

"No, I can do tonight on my own. Padma's got Transfiguration homework to finish. Later, guys." Hermione said. Walking towards the portrait, Hermione felt a hand on her shoulder.

"Hermione, listen," Harry whispered as he did a quick glance around the common room. "I wanted to ask you…well unless you already have someone…if you would like to go to Slughorn's party with me?"

Hermione felt her face go hot. To her delight, she could see Harry shifting about, a sign that he felt awkward and embarrassed. Taking it as a good sign, Hermione folded her arms.

"Oh, not a last resort, am I?" Hermione mocked as Harry flashed her an apologetic look. "Luckily for you, no one has asked me yet."

"Well, I do have Felix Felicis, you know," Harry replied as Hermione giggled.

"Alright, Potter, you're good. I'll see you later." Hermione said as Harry beamed at her before returning to their friends. Hermione could feel her heart skipping in her chest as she exited into the corridor of the tower.

It's finally happening!

What's happening?

I'm going on a date with Harry, brain.

Ohhh…that's nice.

What?! Why aren't you happier for me?!

Are you sure it's a date? He did say that you were friends, right?

Why do you have to SPOIL everything?

I'm not. I'm just being realistic. You know, logical. Rational. Reasonable.

Urgh, you can be a know-it-all sometimes!

"Hey! Walk much, Granger?!"

Hermione jolted out of her thoughts as she nearly collided with a classroom door which had just been shoved open. Hermione composed and readied herself with a retort only to find herself face to face with a familiar green-eyed witch with beautiful, blonde hair.

"You're not supposed to be in there," Hermione said as Daphne shot her a withering look.

"Do you think I care what you think?" Daphne said haughtily as she turned to walk away from the witch. Normally, Hermione would simply brush off such insults but something about the witch simply pissed her off.

"I'm reporting you to McGonagall," Hermione yelled as Daphne stopped in her tracks. "Oh, and I'm giving you detention."

Daphne turned around as she strode towards Hermione, her face glowering with anger. Hermione noted, rather strangely, that Daphne was taller than her but not much as the witch stood no less than two inches from her face.

"You want to repeat that, Granger?"

"I'm giving you detention or are you just hard of hearing?"

"What for?"

"Loitering outside your common room for one," Hermione said as she raised a finger. "Oh, and being disrespectful to a Prefect."

"Oh, you think that was disrespectful, do you?"

"Yes, I think it was rude. You nearly hit me with a door and you don't even apologise?"

Daphne smirked at Hermione. Raising her hands, Daphne nodded her head.

"Okay, Granger, you got me. I'm sorry." Daphne said as Hermione stared at her warily. Checking to see if she was holding her wand or any kind of strange object, Daphne continued to speak.

"I'm sorry, Granger. I'm sorry for you."

"For me?"

"Yes," Daphne said as she started to circle Hermione. "You know, this may sound strange, Granger but I was always impressed with you. You're top in our school, teacher's pet and even got invited to Slughorn's parties. I mean, if you were in the Ministry, you would probably go far. Who knows, maybe you could be head of the Magical Law Enforcement Squad one day. But you know what really impressed me the most?"

Hermione glared at the witch who continued to circle her, baiting Hermione to respond. Curiosity getting the better of her, Hermione broke the silence.

"What?"

"Just how much of a Slytherin, you are," Daphne said as Hermione snorted.

"Please."

"Oh, it's true. I mean, correct me if I'm wrong but weren't you and Longbottom friends?"

"What does that have to do – "Hermione started to speak but Daphne held her hand up.

"Please, you don't have to lie to me, Hermione. You use boys just like how I use them as well. I still remember how you once had Krum and Potter tied on your little finger. Switching between them to whatever fits your fancy. But poor Neville, you just tore that boy's heart to pieces, didn't you? I remember how he used to pine for you, the way he trailed after you, always trying to please you like a pathetic house elf until you decided that the Chosen One was a far better option than someone who can't even do a simple Switching Spell. So, you upgraded. Good for you, Granger!"

"How dare you – "

"Oh, Granger, don't pretend that you're not as vindictive as you make us to be. Did you even check up on poor Marietta? Do you know how much that jinx has destroyed her self-confidence? Poor girl probably tried to drown herself. I mean, I would, if I looked as horrible as that."

"You…you…"

"What's the matter, Granger? Cat got your tongue? You act so high and mighty, Granger but don't pretend you've never tried to hurt someone when it suits your interests. Say what you want about me but at least, everyone knows of my reputation. I don't pretend to be someone I'm not. You disfigure Marietta's face, you treat one of your best friends like a pile of dung, you even punched Malfoy in the face."

"He deserved it!" Hermione replied, finding her voice for a moment.

"No doubt that arrogant git deserved it but remind me again if Malfoy ever physically attacked you?" Daphne sneered as Hermione found herself cowering. "That's right. You can't argue against facts, can you Granger? And you and your Potter lover lured Umbridge into a centaur's attack so I suppose I do have to give you props on that one. Tell me something, why do you try so hard?"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, you could have just studied, gotten your grades and then just graduated with a nice, comfy Ministry position if that's still available for you. Why do you try so hard to stick by Potter and Longbottom? Because I have a theory, Granger. I think the reason you try so hard is that without Potter and Longbottom, you wouldn't have any purpose. You would just be another know-it-all bitch who sucks up to teachers because that's the only way she'll ever get attention. If you've never met Potter, you probably be despised by all of us, including your own Gryffindor mates. Maybe you did Longbottom a favour. I mean, he's an idiot but he's a Pureblood."

Hermione could feel herself trembling, though she was unsure if it was due to fear or rage. There was a part of her willing to lash out, to whip out her wand and hex the witch into oblivion. Yet, she couldn't find herself willing to retaliate.

"I lied," Daphne whispered harshly as Hermione found the witch glaring back at her. "I was impressed but that's before I realised who you are. Or rather what you are. You're nothing but a vindictive, violent and hypocritical Mudblood slut who goes around pointing out everyone's flaws while hoping no one ever sees hers. Is that why you changed your teeth, Granger? Or straighten your wild bird's nest you call hair? Are you actually wearing perfume now because you realized that for the past six years, you smell as good as Stinksap? Just because you've attracted the likes of Krum in past doesn't make you a Veela, Granger. Look at Cho Chang. Do you think someone like Potter would want to spend a second with someone who looks like you? Oh no, Potter is different. He won't care. Yes, he will. Because you see, Granger, I know how the story ends. Sooner or later, Potter would dump an ugly-looking troll like you for someone better despite how desperate you try to impress him and all your friends. And unless You-Know-Who comes along and finishes them off, the remaining of your so-called friends would eventually cut ties with you because who would ever want an abusive, bossy Mudblood like you as a friend? You're not a good person, Granger and you are not good enough for anyone.

Daphne took a step back as she smirked at Hermione. "So, Granger, I'm done talking. Would you like to say something? Or maybe just lash out as you always do. What will it be this time? A hex? A jinx? Or how about you just slap me in the face? Go on, then, whore of Gryffindor."

The door to the classroom opened once more, giving Hermione a start. As she saw who had walked out of the room, Hermione felt her blood turning cold. Standing in front of her was none other than Ronald Weasley whose hair looked dishevelled, tie undone and the wizard frantically trying to tuck in his shirt.

"What's going on here?" Ron said as he exchanged looks with Daphne.

"Well, Granger wants to give us detention because we're not supposed to be out here during this time of the night. But where else are you and I supposed to spend quality time together?" Daphne said as Hermione felt something crack deep inside her. Quality time, Ron looking like a mess and an abandoned classroom with no teachers or students past school hours. There could only be one reason as to why they were there.

"I have to go." Hermione blurted out as she felt her eyes welling up with tears. Running as fast as she could, Hermione reached a girl's bathroom. Flinging herself inside the cubicle, Hermione broke down in tears. Despite her best efforts, she had to admit that the Ice Queen's words had stung. After crying for several minutes, Hermione's ears picked up the main door of the bathroom being opened.

"Hermione?" whispered the familiar voice of Ron. Not wanting to look at the Slytherin, Hermione bit her lip hard while shifting her feet upwards to prevent anyone from seeing it below. Hermione could hear Ron's feet shuffling as she watched the shadows of his feet pass in front of her. Soon, she could hear the cubicle doors opening. Before she could say anything, she found herself staring at Ron's shoes, the wizard standing on the other side of the door.

"Hermione, I know you're there. Talk to me, please."

"Go away, Ron!" Hermione croaked. "You're not supposed to be in here. This is the girl's bathroom."

"Hermione…"

"JUST GET OUT, RON!" Hermione shrieked. "Please…please…"

Hermione heard a long sigh. Ron's feet disappeared from under her cubicle door as Hermione heard the sound of retreating feet before the loud bang from the main bathroom door closing. Certain she was alone once more, Hermione put her head between her knees and continued to cry.

"You know, I could just reverse this moment right now."

Ron's voice, which had come from the cubicle next to hers, gave Hermione a start. "

"What are you doing here?" Hermione cried. "I heard you leave."

"Granger, this may surprise you but this isn't the first time I had to comfort a crying girl in the bathroom. Granted, all those times were for Ginny but either way, I'm not going anywhere until I know what happened."

"What do you care?" Hermione said bitterly. "Why don't you just go back to shagging your girlfriend?"

"Whoa, whoa!" Ron cried out. "What do you mean, shagging? I'm not shagging anyone."

"Right. Shagging, snogging, screwing!" Hermione yelled out. "I don't really feel like talking to you right now, Weasley, so just bugger off!"

Hermione waited for Ron to respond but it seemed that the latter had gone silent. Hermione could hear the scraping of Ron's fingernails on the cubicle door and the shuffling of his shoes on the floor.

"Fuck it, I'm not going anywhere," Ron said. Hermione felt like pulling her hair out. Before she could snap at him, Ron continued to speak.

"Hermione, I don't know if you would believe me but Daphne and I are definitely not shagging. I fell asleep in class talking to her because she is the most boring witch I've ever met. Trust me, okay, I want nothing to do with Daphne Greengrass.

Yeah right.

"Yeah right." Hermione retorted. "You can stop lying to me, Weasley. I caught you once dreaming about her, didn't I?"

"Do I think she's hot? Of course, which bloke wouldn't?" Ron replied. "But that's all there is to her, Hermione. Trust me, even Flobberworms have better personalities than her."

"Then why do you look like that?"

"Like what? Incredibly handsome?"

"You know! Like you're just spent the night cosying up to her. Your hair is messed up, your tie is loose and your shirt is untucked!"

"I. Fell. Asleep." Ron cried out in exasperation. "You've seen me sleep. I undo my tie, my hair is a mess cause obviously, I didn't have time to fix it and I tuck out my shirt cos who in the name of Merlin, sleeps with a tucked shirt?"

"You expect me to believe that? You're dating her, Ron!"

"Only because you told me to, Hermione!"

"What?!" Hermione cried in shock.

"You did!" Ron exclaimed. "Just not in this timeline."

"Why would I ask you to date her?!"

"Well, because…arghh…" Ron cried in frustration. "Look, I'll explain everything but first, you have to tell me what she said, Hermione. And don't lie. I know she said something because you looked like you were about to cry."

"Why does it matter to you?" Hermione cried sharply. "You'll probably agree with everything she said. Maybe Dean was right. Maybe the two of you do belong together since you just like hurting people."

Hermione could hear a sharp intake of breath. "Hermione…I…"

"What, Ron? What could you possibly say right now?"

"That I'm a prat?" Ron's voice sounded thick. "That I'm an idiot? I'm an incredible piece of fucking shite? That you're right and I do hurt people around me. I hurt my sister for years. I hurt my siblings even if I feel they deserve it. I hurt Draco by not giving the help he needs causing him to be in more danger than he's ever been. I hurt you, so many times, Granger. Listen…I'm not making excuses for what I was like but I want to say that I'm sorry. I'm sorry, Hermione, for being…a…a…"

Hermione could hear Ron wiping his nose noisily on his sleeve. It dawned on her that Ron Weasley, the same boy who had been the bane of her existence for six years, was crying and apologising to her. Hermione felt herself wanting to stand up and comfort the wizard though she remained rooted to her spot, her cheeks no longer running with tears.

"You sort of made it up recently," Hermione whispered. "Finding the Horcruxes. Finishing off the diadem. Trying to save all of our lives."

"You're making me sound a lot cooler than I actually am, Granger," Ron mumbled as Hermione let out a chuckle.

"Ron?"

"Yes, Hermione?"

"Why did I ask you to date Daphne?"

"Why did Daphne say to you?"

"I'm…I'm not ready to talk about it yet." Hermione blurted. "Usually I just want to be alone to process my thoughts."

"Well, you can process your thoughts all night but I'm not going anywhere," Ron said fiercely as Hermione felt a smile growing on her lips.

"Ron, you don't have to – "

"I mean it, Hermione," Ron said firmly. "Nothing, and I mean nothing is going to make me move from this spot!"

BANG!

The sound of the main bathroom door opening nearly caused Hermione to scream. To her horror, the voices of Professor McGonagall and Professor Sprout filled the air.

"Did Albus say when he's returning, Minerva?"

"Granger, make some space!" Ron whispered harshly as Hermione clapped her hands over her mouth at the sight of Ron Weasley squeezing himself underneath the gap between cubicles into hers.

"Ron, what the blazes are you doing?!" Hermione whispered in a panicked voice as she heard the sounds of footsteps coming closer.

"Shhhh!" Ron whispered desperately as he tried to hide his legs by pressing them onto the walls of the cubicles only for him to slide down constantly with a screeching sound made by the wet soles of his shoes.

"Who's there?" Professor McGonagall asked sharply. Sensing that they had precious little time and being unable to cast spells due to earshot or attempt a non-verbal spell, Hermione pointed to her lap and motioned angrily for Ron to sit on it. Ron's face had turned white as he shook it furiously as both he and Hermione gestured angrily towards each other. However, as soon as McGonagall's feet appeared below, Hermione found herself straddling the lanky redhead on her lap.

"It's me, Professor." Hermione squeaked as Ron clapped his hands over his mouth, not wanting McGonagall to hear him breathe.

"Who?"

"Me, Professor. Hermione!"

"Oh, Miss Granger," McGonagall said. "Why didn't you answer earlier?"

"Sorry, Professor. I must not have heard you. I was thinking about what to write to my parents back at home" Hermione replied quickly, praying that McGonagall would buy it.

"I understand, dear. It must be hard given what's been going on. It's okay, Pomona, it's my prefect."

"Oh, alright. I'll meet you at the greenhouses then."

"No need, I'll be with you. Apologies for disturbing you, Miss Granger. Do carry on."

"Thank you, Professor!" Hermione replied, a little too cheerfully given the look that Ron was giving her right now. It was then that Hermione realized just how close the two of them were with Ron's face merely inches from her. She felt her face growing hot as her heart started to beat furiously.

You know, Lavender does have a point

Shutupshutupshutup

"Okay, they're gone," Ron whispered as Hermione felt a weight being lifted off her lap. "Bloody hell, that was close."

"Too close," Hermione replied.

"I tried to grab my potion bottle but it got stuck," Ron said as the wizard stood in front of Hermione, straightening out his shirt. "Thanks for letting me sit in your lap, Granger."

"Anytime, Weasley."

Ron stared back in shock as Hermione realised what she had just said. Before she could explain, Ron burst out laughing as Hermione stared at him, dumbfounded for a moment before joining in the laughter.

"Wait…" Hermione wheezed as she tried to speak amidst her giggles. "So, you're saying that if McGonagall and Sprout had burst inside here, you would have killed yourself just to reverse time?"

"Of course. Wouldn't you?"

"What about me, then?" Hermione cried indignantly. "I'd be left sitting here with a dead Weasley in my lap and a draught of Living Death in the bottle. I'd be sent to Azkaban!"

"No cos you wouldn't exist, Hermione. None of this would have happened because I would go back in time and catch you before you even meet Daphne and me in that classroom."

"Right," Hermione said as the mention of Daphne's name brought back all the witch had said. Noticing this, Ron let out a sigh before dropping down to the floor.

"Ewww, Ron!" Hermione said as she wrinkled her nose in disgust. "The floor is filthy!"

"Would you rather I sit on your lap again?" Ron said as he folded his arms. "Now, tell me what she said to you."

Hermione heaved a sigh as she recounted everything that Daphne had said to her. Ron's face got visibly darker as she went on though he kept silent until she finished.

"That…that..." Ron gritted his teeth as Hermione noticed him clenching his fists. "We can't let her get away with this, Hermione! That bitch had no right to say any of that to you! Now, come on!" Ron said as he shot to his feet. "I know where she'll be."

"Ron, it's okay."

"No, it's most definitely not okay, Hermione! That bitch probably thinks she won. I don't know what you Gryffindors do but Slytherins don't just let people say shite like that and get away with it." Ron said as he held out his hand.

"Ron…I…" Hermione sighed. "I froze, Ron. She kept saying all those things and I just froze. What if…what if…she's right?"

"Who are you and what have you done to Hermione?" Ron said with an incredulous expression on his face. "Don't tell me you seriously believe that nonsense, do you?"

Hermione fell silent as she covered her face with her hands, her bushy hair forming a makeshift shield by falling over her face. A moment later, Hermione felt a pair of hands gently touching her arms. Peering through her hair, she could see the blue eyes of Ron staring at her with concern as he squatted inches from where she sat.

"Hermione…" Ron whispered. "She's wrong. So bloody wrong. You know what you had to do with Longbottom and you did it. It wasn't out of spite; it was out of love and I guarantee you that the pair of you will be fine. Better even, now that Longbottom is no longer obsessed with you and is with someone who loves him for who he is."

"Marietta…"

"Well, I highly doubt your jinx would be permanent considering that most spells do wear off after a while. You were standing up to Umbridge and in those times, people need to understand that there are consequences to betraying your group. I mean, I wasn't on your side back then but if there's one thing I admire is that you have to be loyal to your friends."

"Did I go too far?"

"Perhaps in normal times, maybe," Ron said with a shrug. "But those were tough times. The Ministry wanted to take over, all those decrees and with Fudge refusing to believe that Tom was back, I say it's necessary given how important is it to keep everything a secret. Look, if it makes you feel better, you can always remove the jinx yourself. I'm sure we can find a remedy for it."

"Maybe," Hermione spoke in a hopeful tone as Ron smiled at her.

"And I already gave you crap for decking my cousin so let's not go there. Besides, I don't think you're losing too much sleep over it."

"I was angry," Hermione said apologetically.

"Well given what he's going through and you helping me to save him, I say we just let it go."

"You still haven't answered my question, Ron."

"What?"

"Why did I tell you to date Daphne?" Hermione asked as Ron let out a groan before explaining everything to her.

"So, wait, you've been going back to this period and the only thing that got you out of it was taking Greengrass to Slughorn's party?" Hermione said as Ron nodded.

"Trust me, it doesn't make any sense but it seemed to work," Ron responded as he scratched the back of his head. "I was going to see you and tell you everything but I didn't want to jinx it. So, I waited a couple of days."

"Makes sense," Hermione said before laughing. "You know, my friends think that the only reason you're agreeing to all this is because Daphne convinced you to take her last name so that you can continue her family's name."

"Me? Be a Greengrass?" Ron scowled. "Please. I rather just be a Weasley."

"What about a Malfoy? Isn't that what you want to be once you've come of age?"

"Maybe. I don't know yet." Ron said before giving a non-committal shrug. "But whatever it is, I'm still Ron. Who cares what my last name is? What's important is who I am and who I want to be."

"Who are you and what have you done with Ronald Weasley?" Hermione giggled as Ron laughed in response.

"I'm spending way too much time with you," Ron said as he stood to his feet. "Now come! Let's go and tell Greengrass off. I know where she and Tracey are. They're at their usual hangout spot behind the greenhouses."

"Ron… I…"

"I'm serious, Hermione," Ron said as he dragged the witch to her feet despite her feeble protests. "You can't let her beat you. You're Hermione Granger remember? You know, the top witch in our school, won the most points out of any student, helped Gryffindor win the House Cup three times in the last five years, got the Philosopher's Stone, saved my sister from being possessed by Tom and took on Death Eaters at the Ministry. But all of those pales to your greatest achievement."

"What's that?"

"Being the president of SPEW! Come on, think of the house elves!" Ron laughed as Hermione joined in.

"You're making me sound cooler than I really am, Weasley."

"No, I'm not," Ron said as Hermione beamed at him. "Now, be a good prefect and let's go find Greengrass and throw Dungbombs in her face!" Ron exclaimed before opening the cubicle door and rushing out. Hermione rushed out after him.

"Wait!" Hermione said as she grabbed Ron's hand just as he was about to open the main bathroom door. "Just wait a second."

"Hermione…"

"Ron, just listen." Hermione sighed as she paced in front of him. "Look, I appreciate everything you've said and I get what you're saying and what you're trying to do but I guess the reason I'm so affected by what she said is because sometimes I do feel that way. I spend so much time helping Harry and Neville and trying to stop Tom and doing all the work but aside from that, what do I really do? What I am good for? It was difficult for me to make friends and I know that sometimes I can be a little bossy and over the top and I'm scared that I would lose my friends because I really, really love them, Ron. I do. I love my parents but this is the world I want to live in. A world where magic exists. It's difficult for you to understand because you haven't spent the majority of your life ignorant of everything magical but I have. I'm scared to lose everything. I'm scared of losing and I'm scared of failing and I'm scared that I'm just not good enough."

Hermione stopped pacing as she stared back at Ron who seemed to be frowning in thought.

"Ron…"

"I get it," Ron said as he raised his arms in the air. "I get it. I do. Yeah, you can be much at times, Granger and you do have an annoying habit of correcting people all the time. Plus, I think out of everyone at Hogwarts, I call you a know-it-all at least twice a day."

"Geez, thanks."

"But you want to know something? I think I know better than you think. I was in your room, Granger."

"What?!"

"Yeah, you reacted the same way in the previous timeline. I met your parents and I can see how much they love you. I saw the pictures on your wall and I know after years of messing with you just how far the people who love you will do anything for you. People like Potter and Longbottom, not to mention Lovegood, Finnigan and hey, even my sister. They will do everything to fight for you because you are worth that. As for losing, well, you know I definitely understand you on that. But you know what? You lose, you fail and you pick yourself up and you go on and I learn that from you because when I was stuck in the diadem, you kept coming to save me."

"Diadem?"

"Another time. Granger, I'm not as smart as you but I do know that you're an idiot if you think you're not good enough. You're smart, you're brave, you're kind because in the previous timeline, when I was at my lowest, you came to meet me in a classroom and you tried to talk to me even though you know how much I hated you back then. You're think you're bad? No, Granger, you're a badass." Ron said as Hermione smiled at him.

"You really have to bring me up to date on what's been happening so far," Hermione said.

"Tell you what, let's stick it to Greengrass and then I'll fill you in."

"Deal," Hermione said as she and Ron left the bathroom. As Hermione thought of what she wanted to do, she could see Ron out of the corner of his eyes rubbing his wrists vigorously.

"Alright, so let's go to the Room. I think I can snag up some Dungbombs and – "

"Ron, I'm not throwing anything at her," Hermione said.

"Okay, how about I round out Peeves and get him to throw water bombs?"

"Ron, no."

"Okay, fine, let's just hex her. I figure I can make her eat slugs."

"No one is eating slugs. I'm just going to talk to her."

"And cuss her out? Ok good, but you've really got to mean what you say so maybe call her a – "

"Ron!"

"Fine," Ron grumbled as the pair reached the Entrance Hall. "Let's just wing it."

"Look, you really should go back to your room. Daphne can't see you with me otherwise she'll get suspicious."

"Good," Ron said harshly.

"No, not good," Hermione replied. "You need her to go to Slughorn's party, remember?"

"If you think I'm going to go with that bitch after what she said – "

"Ron." Hermione interrupted. "You have to do this. There's much more at stake here than just a petty argument."

"Well, I'm not going anywhere," Ron said stubbornly as he pointed to some bushes. "I'm going to hide there and if she tries anything, I'm jumping out. You're not getting rid of me that easily, Granger."

"Fine!" Hermione exclaimed though she felt a feeling of warmth spreading through her. "Thank you."

"Anytime. Now I'll go hide in the bush while you deal with the grass." Ron smirked as Hermione rolled her eyes.

"Can't you take anything seriously?" Hermione whispered as Ron grinned at her before diving headfirst into a bush. Resisting an urge to laugh, Hermione wandered several steps towards the sounds of laughter coming from behind one of the greenhouses. Taking a long breath, Hermione whipped out her wand before turning the corner.

"Hi," Hermione said as the two witches turned around quickly to face her. She noted, to some satisfaction, that Daphne looked slightly shocked while Tracey shot her panicked looks.

"Oh, shit," Tracey said as Hermione smirked at her.

"Relax, Tracey," Daphne said, the witch managing to compose herself in time. "Granger here was just leaving, aren't you Granger?"

"Now why would I do that?" Hermione smirked as she crossed her arms. As Daphne took a few steps towards her, Hermione couldn't help but feel slightly intimidated by the witch. It was at that moment she heard the rustling of bushes and with that, Hermione took a step forward.

"You finally figured out something to say? How adorable." Daphne sniped as she exchanged a grin with Tracey.

"You know something, Greengrass. You're right." Hermione exclaimed as Daphne looked taken aback.

"I am?"

"Yes, you're right. Compared to you, I look like a chipmunk. I mean, I may not be as knowledgeable as Lavender when it comes to things like this but even I can admit that your hair is positively gorgeous. Not to mention you have perfect skin and you keep yourself in shape. Your eyes are just radiating with beauty and you've been blessed with incredible features all around."

"Thanks, I think."

"Yeah, you're gorgeous," Hermione said as she turned around and started to walk away

"So that's it?" Daphne cried in confusion. "That's all you have to say?"

"Of course," Hermione said as she suddenly stopped in her tracks before turning around to face the witch. Adrenaline rushed through her veins as Hermione shot the witch her most withering glare.

"Because what else can I say? You're just a pretty thing to look at, Daphne nothing more. You barely make it through all your grades. You're basically Parkinson's lapdog though you try to convince yourself otherwise. You need a date to a party because you're too insecure to go on your own. You have friends who probably talk about you behind your back because they're probably jealous of how you look and how you're stealing their boyfriends. You're an empty shell, Greengrass with nothing more than her good looks. It must burn you, right, knowing that in the years to come, no one will even remember Daphne Greengrass but they will all know who I am."

"Why, you Mu-"

"Mudblood? That's what you're going to say right?" Hermione laughed as she shrugged her shoulders dismissively. "You know, I've heard Malfoy say that to me countless of times but at least he can come up with a decent insult once in a while but you, you're like a broken record. It's okay, though. At least you have your looks and you can use them to get a husband because Merlin knows you can't take care of yourself. If you want some advice, stop trying to rule like a queen and start acting like one. Because looks fade and who knows maybe one day, you'll even be good enough for Filch."

Daphne glared at Hermione, her mouth dangling open though no words were being said. Next to her, Tracey gaped at Hermione with a dumbfounded look on her face.

"I'm not going to give you detention, Greengrass, because I really want you to take the time and reflect on yourself. Besides, detention will just slow you down even further and you need all the help you can get. I pity you, Greengrass, I really, really do."

"You pity me?!" Daphne cried scathingly as the witch glowered at Hermione.

"I do. Now if you excuse me, I'm going to head back because I want to go to sleep and wake up early in the morning for classes. Unlike you, I actually have a worthy future."

"How dare you speak to me like that, you Mudblood bitch?!"

"MISS GREENGRASS!"

Hermione let out a low chuckle as the two witches jumped at the sound of Professor McGonagall and Professor Sprout approaching. Earlier, Hermione had noticed her professors talking in the greenhouse as she approached Daphne and Tracey. Knowing that all she had to do was bring Daphne into earshot, Hermione kept her voice low and undetected while continuing to rile Greengrass up as much as she could.

"What in Merlin's name is the meaning of this?" Professor McGonagall demanded as the two Slytherin witches cowered under her gaze, both at a loss for words.

"I just arrived here, Professor," Hermione said. "I was at the Entrance Hall when I saw two figures talking behind the greenhouses in the distance. I thought at first it was you and Professor Sprout but then I heard them laughing and I realised they were students so I approached them and told them to go back to the common room."

"But why the use of such profane language, girls?" Professor Sprout asked as she shook her in disappointment. "I can't believe it. Especially you, Davis."

"I didn't even say anything, Professor!" Tracey protested as Daphne scowled at her.

"She didn't," Hermione added as Professor McGonagall folded her arms.

"Very well. You may go, Miss Granger and as for the pair of you, I am taking away fifty points from Slytherin. You can be sure that I'll be speaking to Professor Snape about this."

Hermione walked slowly away as the two professors continued to berate the Slytherin witches. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see Daphne glaring daggers at her while Tracey was trying her best to inch away from her best friend.

"Psssh…Hermione…."

Hermione turned to see Ron's face peeking from out of the bush. Looking back to see if they were safe, Hermione motioned for them to return to the castle. Running fast and lightly giggling, the pair of them managed to sneak back into Hogwarts. Before Hermione could say anything, she felt Ron's hand grab her wrist as the wizard led her to the second floor overlooking the entrance where she could see Daphne and Tracey being escorted back with McGonagall and Sprout.

"Granger, that was bloody brilliant!" Ron laughed as Hermione smiled at him.

"Really?"

"I heard every word. And you're right. There really isn't much to her besides looks."

"Did I go too far?"

"Seriously, Hermione?"

"Perhaps I shouldn't have – "

"Daphne will get over it." Ron said dismissively "You stood up for yourself and that's what's important. Besides, you didn't do anything. Daphne called you that name and she's probably going to end up in detention."

"True," Hermione said as she lightly punched his arm. "Thanks for being there for me tonight."

"Anytime, Granger," Ron replied as he repeated the gesture before letting out a loud yawn.

"Ron!"

"I'm tired," Ron muttered defensively before scratching the back of his head. "I should probably go."

"Yeah, me too," Hermione replied. Surprising herself at that moment, Hermione tiptoed up and gave Ron a peck on the cheek. "Goodnight, Ron." Hermione whispered as she quickly turned to walk away, not wanting Ron to see the blush growing on her face.

"Hermione?"

"Yes, Ron," Hermione said, turning to face the wizard.

"Rita Skeeter was right."

"What?" Hermione said as Ron laughed awkwardly.

"You remember the piece she wrote? About Potter joining the Tournament?"

"Yeah."

"You remember what she said about you, then? Before the whole love triangle stuff."

"Honestly, I don't."

"Well, I do. She said you were…stunningly pretty." Ron said with an awkward grin plastered on his face. "Rita Skeeter was right. Goodnight, Hermione."

As Ron departed from her sight, Hermione couldn't help but notice how fast her heart was skipping or how difficult it was to remove the smile that was spreading on her face.

….

December 8th, 1996

"What the hell!" Ron yelled as he blinked his eyes open. Once again, Ron found himself lying back first on a pile of snow while Daphne Greengrass stared at him from above.

"Merlin, Ron, what's gotten into you?" Daphne asked as Ron got to his feet, ignoring the witch.

No, no, not again! Ron thought angrily as he tried to recall back the memories. This was the fourth time he had been sent back after saying yes to Daphne. The first time had been a couple of days. The second time had taken a week, the third nine days and in his last timeline, Ron had fallen just one day short of Slughorn's party. Each time, he had seen Hermione and each time, they had tried to work something out but neither of them was able to pinpoint the reason for the reset.

"Fuck!" Ron yelled out as Daphne took a step back, completely confused and somewhat unsettled.

"Well, if you're going to be a prick, then I'll just leave," Daphne said, grabbing the Firewhiskey bottle before storming away. Ron could not give a shit. Grabbing a broken branch in his hand, Ron repeatedly smashed it against the tree, his rage too overwhelming to contain.

"WHAT!" WHAT THE FUCK DO I HAVE TO DO?!" Ron yelled out to the sky as birds started to fly away.

"I'm done. I'm fucking done!" Ron shouted as he threw the branch against another tree, smashing it into splinters. "I'm fucking done with time travel. I'm done with the Horcruxes. I'm done with Dumbledore. Screw the mission. SCREW EVERYONE!"

Ron stomped his way through the woods and onto the Hogwarts grounds. He had no intention of running to Hermione or Dumbledore's office though the thought of visiting the latter and smashing every item in there sounded highly appealing to him. Ron felt a burning desire to simply drown his sorrows and for a moment, he considered chasing back after Greengrass and taking his Firewhiskey bottle back. As he stepped into a clearing, Ron could see Hagrid's hut in the distance.

Good. Hagrid's bound to have some mead inside Ron thought savagely as he made a beeline towards the hut, the lack of smoke coming from the chimney bolstering his adrenaline. All he had to do was smash a window or blow apart the door off its hinges with his hand. Gripping his wand tightly, Ron walked past the pumpkin patch.

"Hello, Ronald."

Ron stopped in his tracks as he turned to meet the voice coming from behind him. Luna Lovegood had emerged from the pumpkin patch, carrying what looked like a basket full of green onions. She waved as she walked towards him though Ron did not return the gesture.

"What are you doing here, Lovegood?" Ron asked as Luna motioned to her basket.

"I'm just collecting Gurdyroots. I have to brew more potions within the next two weeks. It's Gulping Plimpies season."

"What?" Ron asked, having no idea what the witch was talking about.

"What are you doing here?" Luna asked as she noticed Ron gripping his wand tightly.

"I'm going to get something to drink," Ron said as he pointed to Hagrid's Hut. Unless you happen to have something strong like Firewhiskey or even Butterbeer?"

"No, but I do have this," Luna said as she whipped out a bottle with green liquid. "It's pretty strong."

"Does it make you forget shite that's happened?"

"Why, did you poop in the woods?"

"What? Never mind, give it here!" Ron said as he grabbed the bottle from Luna before taking a swig. In an instant, Ron spat out the liquid, his face scrunched up in disgust.

"What in effing hell is that?" Ron yelled as he continued to spit.

"It's Gurdyroot," Luna said. "Told you it was strong."

"It tastes like cat piss."

"Oooo, I've never drunk cat piss. Does it bring benefits like gnome saliva? What does it do?" Luna asked with a genuine expression on her face.

"What?!" Ron cried in frustration. "Why do you keep saying all these loony things?"

"Gnome saliva is beneficial, Ron." Luna insisted. "It once gave me the talent to sing an opera song in Mermish! Maybe cat piss could do the same for you"

"Are you mocking me? You are, aren't you?" Ron growled before the witch could respond. "You know what, here's what I think of your stupid drink!" Ron said as he threw the bottle to the ground, smashing it into pieces.

Luna let out an audible gasp as she dropped the basket carrying the Gurdyroots, dispersing them in all directions.

"Oh no!" Luna cried as she trailed after two Gurdyroots that had yet to stop rolling. Seeing the witch panicking as she chased after the rolling green onions, Ron glanced uncomfortably at the broken pieces on the ground.

"Crap," Ron mumbled as he pointed his wand to the pieces.

"Reparo!" Ron cried as the pieces formed back into the bottle. Taking it with him, Ron chased after the rolling Gurdyroots, gathering as much in his arms as he could.

"Here," Ron said as he handed the Gurdyroots over to Luna who sat on the steps of the hut. Luna took them without reply though Ron could see that she was hurt. Feeling immensely guilty, Ron sat next to her. He took it as a good sign that she didn't retaliate.

"Luna, I'm sorry," Ron said, shamefaced. "I'll help you brew another potion. I'll also help find you more Gurdyroots."

"It's okay," Luna mumbled. "It's not the worst thing that's happened to me."

"What's happened to you?"

"It's okay, Ronald," Luna said as she stared at him. There was something disconcerting about the pale, silvery eyes of the dirty-blonde witch studying him.

"Did something happen to you, Ron?"

"It's okay, Luna. Let's just focus on you." Ron sighed as he offered Luna a smile though the witch still looked at him with concern.

"Ronald, I know I don't know you that well but you always struck me as a funny guy. Ginny always tells me how much you care for her. You are unkind sometimes, though."

"I deserved that," Ron admitted as Luna shook her head.

"I mean, yes, you can be cruel and unkind but just now, it seemed like you were upset and you just wanted something to channel away your anger."

"Doesn't make it right."

"What's wrong, Ronald?" Luna pressed as Ron waved his hand.

"Even if I could tell you, it wouldn't matter. Nothing I do seems to matter anymore."

"Then you shouldn't have an issue telling me about it."

"Luna, I appreciate it but you probably won't believe me. You probably think I'm insane."

"So, then you be like me. After all, didn't you used to call me Loony Lovegood?" Luna smiled gently as Ron stared at the witch.

"Bloody hell, you sure know how to make me feel bad."

"Do you feel bad?"

"Honestly…yes," Ron said as Luna cocked an eyebrow. "I mean it. I feel awful about what I've done to you in the past." Ron said as Luna grabbed his face.

"Luna! What are you doing?"

"Tell me, Ronald, have you encountered an Aquavirius Maggot?"

"What?"

"Or have you recently read Strabion's Runes in the wrong manner?

"Who?"

"I don't see any marks from Humdingers or Flagraffs so it can't be that."

"Luna, would you mind letting go of my face?" Ron said as Luna released her hands. "Thank you," Ron said as he massaged his cheeks.

"Sorry. I thought that maybe you were…but if you're not…I believe you, Ronald. Consider us friends." Luna smiled as she extended a hand. Ron stared for a moment before capturing hers, leading to an extremely enthusiastic handshake that nearly made him topple to the ground.

"Luna, not that I'm not happy we're friends but – "

"Ron," Luna said, cutting him off. "Tell me. My mother always said better take it out when it's piping hot, otherwise the cauldron will explode."

"Oh, that's…interesting."

"Yes, unfortunately, she didn't heed her own advice. One of her experiments went rather badly wrong and she died. I was nine." Luna said simply as Ron stared dumbfoundedly at the witch.

"I'm sorry," Ron mumbled.

"Yes, it was rather horrible," Luna said conversationally. "I still feel very sad about it sometimes. But I've still got Dad. And anyway, it's not as though I'll never see Mum again, is it?"

"Er — isn't it?" Ron said uncertainly.

Luna smiled slightly. "I see her again someday."

They looked at each other. Luna was smiling slightly. Ron did not know what to say, or to think. Luna believed so many extraordinary things and yet somehow this one didn't seem that unbelievable or bad. It had been nice to have Hermione to talk to and yet it didn't seem to hurt to have a fresh perspective even one as unusual as Luna. Taking a deep breath, Ron started to tell Luna everything that had happened. As he confessed through all the heavy moments from his fight with Ginny, to the diadem incident and the repeating time loop, Ron noticed Luna keeping silent though the frown on her face indicated that she was listening intently. He found himself feeling more relaxed, the terrible burden lessening considerably.

"So here I am," Ron said as he noticed the sky shining bright despite the winter chill, its vibrant colours emanating from the dying embers of the setting sun. Looking back at Luna, he could see the witch deep in thought.

"You believe me, right?" Ron asked uncertainly as Luna looked up from the slumber of her thoughts.

"Of course, I believe you." Luna cried incredulously. "Friends always believe friends, even if anything they say sounds strange and even though you sound like someone who has been hoodwinked by the Lurking Chappidonks, I believe you."

"Err…thanks."

"Well, Ron, I've heard your story and I think I know why you keep coming back."

"You do?" Ron said in surprise as Luna nodded her head fervently.

"But you're probably not going to like it."

"Just tell me, please!" Ron exclaimed, desperate for any solution.

"Well…" Luna said as she squirmed on the steps. "Like you said, Time wants everything to remain the way it was in the original timeline. That means nothing big can happen because it would change the original timeline. I think that Hermione was right about the ripple effect."

"Yeah, something that happens over time that previously was undetected," Ron said as Luna placed a hand on his knee.

"Ron, when did you start falling for Hermione?"

"WHAT?!" Ron exclaimed loudly as he nearly toppled from the steps.

Me? Fall in love with Hermione Granger? What a load of codswallop!

"Luna, you're in…you're wrong!" Ron laughed awkwardly. "I am not falling in love with Hermione Granger, of all people, come on!"

"Friends don't lie, Ron," Luna said sadly.

"I'm not lying." Ron cried desperately as he stood to his feet. "Luna, that's not why I keep coming back."

"Who is Hermione supposed to be with, Ron?" Luna exclaimed suddenly as Ron looked slightly taken aback.

"Potter. They both start dating early next year."

"And how does that make you feel?"

"Fine!" Ron said as he pictured Hermione and Harry kissing. The thought infuriated him beyond belief though he refused to show it. "She's a free agent. She can date whomever she wants."

"I'm sorry, Ronald. I know this must be hard to hear." Luna said as she tried to place her hand on the wizard's only for Ron to pull away.

"Stop, stop saying that," Ron said though he found his voice breaking. "It's not true. Friends don't lie, right? Friends don't lie."

Luna said nothing as she continued to stare at Ron sympathetically. A sudden thought struck Ron.

"Wait, okay, listen," Ron said as he tried to gather his thoughts. "You know, it still doesn't make any sense. So what if I like Granger? If she likes Harry, then she'll still be with him. So then, the timeline would still remain the same!" Ron said triumphantly.

Luna took a step forward. "Ron," Luna whispered as her silvery eyes seemed glassed over as if willing him to make the connection.

No.

"No," Ron repeated. "That's utter garbage. No, no, no."

"Yes," Luna said. "Like you said, if she liked Harry, Hermione would be with him. But since the time loop occurred, it could mean one thing and that is…Luna takes a deep breath…that is that Hermione was falling for you too."

Ron opened his mouth to protest but no words escaped his lips. Instead, memories cascaded down like a waterfall. From the early years of hating Hermione Granger to being forced to work alongside her. From fighting side by side against Tom and finding out about Thomas Granger to the days and nights researching Horcruxes and discussing Slughorn's Party. From celebrating the new year at her house to having heartfelt talks inside girls' bathrooms. At that moment, Ron recalled what his Aunt Narcissa had said to him two years ago

You'll know it because you'll feel it in your heart. When you're in love, all you see is that person despite how ordinary or strange they may seem. You'll feel your heart racing, your emotions flooding throughout your body and try as you can to deny it, you can't.

"I can't…" Ron croaked as he felt his cheeks becoming wet. Looking back at Luna, Ron forced a poignant smile.

"Thank you," Ron whispered before Luna threw her arms around him, her tiny head pressed hard onto his chest.

"I wish things were different for you, Ronald," Luna whispered as Ron patted the top of her head. Breaking from the hug, Ron sat back on the steps as Luna joined him. After a minute of silence, Luna decided to speak.

"So what are you going to do?"

"What else can I do? I probably have to repeat this day since I kind of already screwed things up with Daphne. I'll go back, settling things with Greengrass and for Hermione…" Ron sighed as he fiddled with his wand. "I have to break her heart."

"I don't think you need to do anything too drastic," Luna said quickly. "It seems Time sent you back to the moment with Daphne because that's when you rejected her and showed a side of yourself that Hermione felt attracted to. I think you just have to date Daphne while not giving any indication that you are falling in love with Hermione."

"I still can't believe it, you know." Ron sighed. "How is it that one day, all of a sudden, Hermione and I can just be like into each other?"

"Love isn't instantaneous, Ron. Attraction is." Luna said simply. "Love is a process, a complex process that takes time before it even becomes obvious. That's why they call it falling in love."

"When did you get so smart?" Ron chuckled slightly as Luna smirked at him.

"Well, I am in Ravenclaw, you know."

"Right," Ron replied as Luna rested her head on his shoulder. "Well, I guess I can probably think of something. I mean, I have to, don't I? Otherwise, what would be the point? One broken heart against innocent lives and a monster beaten…seems fair. Besides, maybe I deserve it."

"You don't deserve this, Ron," Luna said as she lifted her head to stare at him. "No one deserves this kind of pain."

"I do. I have done some pretty cruel shite." Ron spoke as he stared at the sky. "Maybe, maybe all this is just some way to balance the scale."

"You may be unkind at times but you're not a bad person, Ron."

"How do you know?"

"Because you choose to do the right thing. You could have just done nothing and lived your sixth year as you did. You could have even taken advantage of your powers and just enjoyed your life instead of caring for others. You could have left it to Harry and Professor Dumbledore to handle the Horcruxes. But you didn't. And you know what? I think this isn't it. I think that when everything is done, you should go and find Hermione. Because I know that the two of you belong together. I've always said it, haven't I?"

"You really believe that?" Ron whispered as Luna nodded her head, smiling.

"Friends don't lie, Ron. Friends don't lie."

…..

If you, if you could get by
Trying not to lie
Things wouldn't be so confused
And I wouldn't feel so used
But you always really knew
I just want to be with you

And I'm in so deep
You know I'm such a fool for you
You got me wrapped around your finger

Do you have to let it linger?

Do you have to,

do you have to,

"Do you have to let it linger?" Ron whispered as he lay on the couch with his fingers tapping on his Walkman. With his eyes closed, Ron continued to sing to the song, unaware of the figure fast approaching him. Feeling a slight tap on his forehead, Ron opened his eyes to see the bright brown eyes of Hermione Granger grinning above him with dimples on her cheeks and her bushy hair cascading down.

Stunningly pretty indeed

"Hey, Hermione," Ron said as he sat up while Hermione stared at him with wonder.

"What are you doing with that?" Hermione asked.

"Listening to music, of course," Ron said as Hermione rolled her eyes.

"You know what I mean! You're using a Muggle device! How did you get that?"

"Tracey gave it to me for my birthday a couple of years ago. To be honest, it's my favourite item." Ron said as he handed the Walkman over to Hermione to inspect. Popping the lid open, Hermione's eyes widened at the tape inside.

"The Cranberries? You listen to the Cranberries?"

"Yeah. They're decent."

"Decent?! They're amazing!" Hermione cried as she shook her head in disbelief. "Ronald Weasley is actually listening to Muggle music using a Muggle device? Pinch me because I must be dreaming!"

"Hilarious," Ron said as Hermione let out a giggle.

"Wait here a moment, Ron. I want to borrow Colin's camera. I have to immortalize this moment otherwise it's just gone." Hermione giggled as Ron offered a bittersweet smile. The air of the scene before him felt heavy with melancholy.

"Hermione…I…" Ron started to speak as Hermione looked at him intently. Words lodged in his throat as Ron took a moment to stare at the witch. He had seen so many versions of Hermione Granger. From the three-year-old sleeping in her bed to the annoying fourteen-year-old who kissed him to take a photograph and finally to the version sitting before him right now.

Hermione was falling for you too

Ron recalled Luna's words as Hermione stared curiously at him. It was ironic that given even a few months ago, Ron wouldn't have even cared about stomping her heart to pieces.

"Ron? What's wrong?" Hermione said as she put his Walkman aside and sat on the couch.

"I went back again," Ron whispered.

"Sorry?"

"I went back again." Ron sighed. "Time send me back."

"Oh, what happened?" Hermione said, sitting up straight and waiting attentively for him to answer.

"No, it's not like the other times," Ron spoke. "This time, I'm being sent back three weeks and before you say anything, we already figured out why."

"Ok, that's good, right?" Hermione replied. "But what's the reason for it?"

"It's a…it's a ripple effect." Ron exhaled. "Something that went undetected because kept making tiny changes until finally, it just became a big one."

"Wow…" Hermione spoke. "That's impressive, Ron."

"Actually, you came up with that."

"That makes more sense." Hermione quipped.

"Right," Ron whispered as Hermione folded her arms.

"Okay, what's up, Ron? You look like something bad happened." Hermione asked as Ron shook his head.

"No, it's not what you think. It's just that I have to do something and if I do it, the timeline will go as usual."

"What do you have to do?" Hermione asked.

"Hermione…I…" Ron sighed as Hermione reached out for his arm only for Ron to pull away at the last second.

"Ron, you're scaring me," Hermione whispered. "What do you have to do? Does someone get hurt?"

I do

"No," Ron said firmly as he leaned back against the couch. "Sorry, I'm just trying to process a lot of things. Too many things have happened. Don't worry about it."

"Okay…" Hermione replied, unconvinced. Ron glanced around the Room of Requirement as he let out a long sigh. Stacks of lost items, from students long gone, rose around them. As he glanced at every item, Ron wondered what had happened to those students. Did they live happy lives? Did they graduate and go on to do great things? Did they fall in love? So many unanswered questions surrounding the remnants of the past. With a gulp, Ron recalled what Draco had said to him at the start of the year

You remember when we were kids? When things were easier.

"You know when we were kids, Hermione, Draco, Ginny and I, had some really good times."

"Oh," Hermione said, slightly surprised by the change in subject. To her credit, Hermione did not press on, instead waiting for Ron to continue.

"My favourite memory was that of the 1990 Quidditch World Cup. We had tickets to the final between Scotland and Canada but Aunt Narcissa didn't want Draco, Ginny and I going because she felt that we were too young and since Draco and I were going to Hogwarts, she wanted us to be prepared. Draco was so mad that he tried to sneak out using Floo Powder but of course, there wasn't a fireplace or even a house near the stadium. So Aunt Narcissa made a deal that if the match lasted for more than four days, we could go. And guess what, it did!"

"Really?"

"It was my first time seeing a Quidditch match live, let alone a World Cup Final. Everyone was either wearing blue and white or red and white. Ginny got a sea serpent costume for Scotland while Draco wore Wendigo antlers. We were in the top box, screaming our hearts out as thousands of wizards and witches cheered on. I remember staring at the Scottish keeper, Alastair Gordon, this huge redhead wizard who looked more like a giant than a wizard and watched how he kept saving all those shots the Canadian chasers kept throwing. Unfortunately, Scotland lost because Lamont couldn't get the snitch even those right up in his bloody face. I remember singing the Scottish national song as the three of us painted our faces."

"That's sounds wonderful, Ron." Hermione smiled at him as Ron turned to face her.

"And I think that's the last time I was really, truly happy," Ron said as Hermione patted his shoulder. Ron took a long breath. It was time to tell Hermione everything.

"Hermione, I have to tell you something. You'll probably hate me for some of it, you'll probably not going to believe me even though it's all true but I can't keep it in any longer because if I do, it's going to kill me."

"I'm here, Ron," Hermione whispered in a small voice as she sat closer to him. "Just tell me."

As Ron confessed everything that had happened from Draco's mission to the diadem incident and to the confrontation with Aunt Narcissa and the recurring time loop, he watched as Hermione went through a range of emotions. From disbelief about their intertwining pasts, to anger about the truth of her grandfather's death, to horror over what Tom could do, to sadness at the moments when Ron felt betrayed and in pain. Each time, Ron cringed and hesitated, Hermione urged him, desperate to know more. Yet when he came to his conversation with Luna, Ron found himself unable to reveal it.

"And that's it. I'm back here." Ron said as Hermione shot him a puzzled expression.

"But you said we figured out how the time loop ends. So far, there doesn't seem to be any solution if you keep coming back."

"Yeah…err… I figured that maybe I should spend more time with Daphne. Just have to get to Slughorn's party." Ron exclaimed as he stared to the ground.

"Do you hate me?" Ron whispered, not wanting to see her face.

"Ron…"

"I really wanted not to tell Hermione. I just…I just..."

"Ron."

"I just wanted to protect you. You have to believe me."

"Ron, look at me," Hermione said as he felt her fingers cupping his chin and turning his head towards hers. Staring into those hazel, brown eyes, Ron was surprised to see the witch not looking angry or about to burst into tears. Instead, she wore a concerned expression.

"Thank you for telling me. That couldn't have been easy."

"You're not mad?"

"No. I mean, yes, of course, I was upset about grandfather and what your Aunt Narcissa said but…we can't keep living in the past. Besides, I'm more worried about you. Can't believe Harry was right though about Malfoy being a Death Eater. He's never going to let me live it down." Hermione chuckled as Ron felt more relieved.

"Yeah, we can't do anything about that. They're both important to the timeline."

"I'm really sorry you had to go through all that alone," Hermione said as she wrapped her arms around him. Ron buried his face in her hair, taking a whiff of her apple-scented shampoo and feeling the warmth of her body on his.

"Okay," Hermione said as she pulled herself away, much to Ron's disappointment. "So why do you have to spend more time with Daphne? I mean, I know it must be like a dream for guys but I still don't understand what it has to do with the timeline?"

"Well, that's because…I mean…I don't know." Ron sighed as he threw his hands in the air in despair. "It's the best theory we can come up with for right now."

"Well, okay. But, hey, at least you still got me, right?"

"Do I?" Ron said as a thought occurred to him. "Do I really, Hermione? Because if Time resets, that means that this moment never happened and I have to do it all over again. And again. And again. Do you know how many Hermiones I have to deal with?" Ron cried as he stood from the couch.

Ron could feel his anger and frustration returning once more as he glared at Hermione gaping wordlessly at him.

"Do you know what this feels like? It's like I'm swimming in the lake, praying that I'll reach the shore and each time I think I get closer, it just gets further and further away. I can't even swim straight because I have to take a specific route and if along the way, I get hurt, who the fuck cares?!"

"Ron…"

"We're not in this together, Hermione. Because I don't even know which Hermione I'm dealing with. You once said that there was a chance that I'm not even spending time with the same Hermione because when I die and go back, you might be still in this place here watching my dead body. So, I'm actually not even getting to know you at all!"

"Ron…"

"But I'm not mad at you, Hermione," Ron said as he stared at the dusty, wooden cabinet. "It's not your fault. Do you know who I'm really pissed off at? Dumbledore! That's right, this whole effing thing is his fault! He was the one who sent my parents to die. He was the one who caused me to be like this with his stupid jellyfish potion. He's the one who's asking us to risk our lives but can't even be bloody bothered to just stay in his office where we can ask for SOME FUCKING HELP!" Ron shouted as he kicked the cabinet repeatedly. With each kick, Ron yelled out, each one louder than the previous.

"I can't save Draco! I lost Ginny! I had to let Hannah's mother die. I watched my parents die and your grandfather off to kill himself! I try and I try and I try and no matter what I do, I keep going back. I keep going back and I'm done, I'm so fucking done. YOU HEAR ME, TIME?! IM FUCKING DONE!"

Ron turned to see Hermione's eyes welling in tears as she stood up to walk to him. Putting out a hand to stop her in her tracks, Ron collapsed onto the floor, leading against a stack of broomsticks. Reaching into his pockets, Ron drew out the red potion bottle.

"You know, each time I die and I go back, I think that a part of me dies as well. Sometimes, I wish it could be permanent. That way, I don't have to deal with all of this. No responsibilities, no problems, no worries."

"Ron, you're scaring me." Hermione squeaked as Ron felt tears running down his cheeks.

"It's okay, Hermione. It's just a thought. I'm just so tired, Hermione. So very tired." Ron said as he dropped the bottle, spilling some of the potion onto his robes.

"Bloody hell. Just my luck" Ron groaned.

"Tergeo!"

Ron watched as the potion siphoned off his robes. Glancing at the witch holding her wand with her outstretched hand, Ron nodded his appreciation.

"Thanks."

"It's just a wiping spell." Hermione sputtered. "Effective for stains."

"Good to know."

The pair sat in silence with Hermione giving Ron frightened looks of concern while the latter traced circles on the floor with his wand, occasionally letting out bright yellow sparks. After a long while, Hermione cleared her throat.

"Ron, how are you feeling now?"

Ron said nothing as Hermione inched closer as she stared at him warily.

"I cannot possibly imagine how it is for you," Hermione spoke gently. "I wish I could do something to take the pain away. My mother used to tell me stories about heroes and at the end of each story, I remember my mother getting emotional and I would ask her why and she would tell me that behind every hero, is a tragedy. That even though they saved the day, they had to sacrifice so much and when I look at you, I see that same hero my mother talks about. But it's still so unfair. I wish I could just take you back to when you were just a kid and go to see the Quidditch World Cup again but I can't – "

Ron looked up to see Hermione frowning down slightly as if a thought was occurring through her head. All of a sudden, Hermione's face snapped upwards with a smile on her face.

"Ron, you know what you need? You need a break!" Hermione said as she jolted to her feet and rushed towards a cupboard filled with clothes. Rummaging through the clothes, Hermione let out a squeal of delight as she pulled out a pair of jeans with a shirt and a jacket.

"Hermione?" Ron spoke, bewildered by this sudden action. Throwing the pile of clothes onto the couch, Hermione stuck out her hand and pulled Ron up to his feet.

"Do me a favour. Wear these clothes and come meet me at the Entrance Hall in fifteen minutes alright? Make sure no one sees you." Hermione said as she patted his hand before sprinting towards the exit door.

"Wait!" Ron cried out. "What's happening?"

"We're going somewhere!" Hermione yelled as she reached the door.

"Where? Where are we going?"

"Alton. Fifteen minutes, Ron. Don't be too late or too early." Hermione cried as she disappeared out into the corridor.

"Alton? Where the bloody hell is that?!"

…

In the past sixteen years of his life, Ron had often considered attending the 1990 Quidditch World Cup final to be the pinnacle when it came to happiness. However, on a cold, winter's night on the 8th of December, 1996, Ron found himself to be pleasantly surprised. From riding rollercoasters to getting screaming on mine trains, from stuffing his face with popcorn and crisps to shooting balloons at the gaming booth, Ron enjoyed every second with Hermione at the theme park. He recalled how shocked he was when Hermione showed him an invisibility cloak, and took him to Hogsmeade where in an alley, using side-along apparition, they found themselves at a theme park in Staffordshire. Hermione took him to the recently built hotel while Ron watched in amazement as Muggle families interacted with each other surrounded by Christmas trees and decorations. As the night drew long, Ron found himself being taken to one of the many gardens in the area where a live band was playing while visitors sat on mats, covered in blankets and bundled up in warm, cosy coats while sipping hot drinks from their thermoses.

"Here, take this," Hermione said as she returned with two cups of coffee and a packet of crisps.

"Thanks," Ron said as he lifted the lids of both cups before handing one over to Hermione. "How much is it in Galleons?"

Hermione brushed him off. "Tonight is on me, Ron. Don't worry about it."

"How do you know about this place?" Ron asked as he stared in wonder at everything happening around him. "It's bloody amazing!"

"Well, I love to go to theme parks and funfairs," Hermione said as she bit into a crisp. "My parents would always bring me to one every year. You've never been to one?"

"I don't really spend much time in the Muggle world," Ron replied as Hermione nodded her understanding. Picking up a £5 note, Ron stared at the image of the Queen while a fierce, bald man stared at him from the back of the turquoise-coloured note. Flipping it over several times, Ron could hear Hermione giggling as she watched him.

"I'm sure you've seen Muggle money before."

"Not really. I mean, I've never really noticed it before." Ron said as he placed the note down. "To be honest, I've never really been in an all-Muggle place before," Ron added as he took a moment to absorb the atmosphere. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland, with a light dusting of snow covering the ground and trees adorned with glistening icicles. The air is crisp and cold, with a gentle breeze carrying the scent of pine from nearby evergreen trees. The night sky is clear, allowing the full moon to cast a soft glow over the scene. Soon, the notes from the band's music filled the air as people started to sing along with the songs.

"Anyways, I have a surprise for you, Ron." Hermione chortled as Ron looked puzzled.

"What?"

"Just trust me on this." Hermione smiled. "I just want you to be happy tonight. No assignments, no responsibilities, no talk of Horcruxes or any other stuff. Let's just enjoy."

"Thanks, Hermione." Ron said. "Although I was already surprised when you and I took off from Hogwarts. I never thought Hermione Granger broke the rules."

Hermione looked sheepish. "Technically, we didn't. Dumbledore permitted us to leave Hogwarts for S.P.E.W related events which is the premise for us going to hunt Horcruxes and I informed Professor McGonagall before we left."

Ron stared at Hermione, dumbfounded. "And she just let us go? Just like that."

"Well, to be honest, she did grill me for a bit but ultimately, yes. Besides, she knows that I'm going so I guess that's something."

"So what you're saying is there's perks to being the teachers' pet." Ron guffawed as Hermione playfully elbowed him on the hip.

"It doesn't hurt," Hermione said as she gazed at the band. "Ron, can I ask you something?"

"Go ahead."

"Why is Linger your favourite Cranberries song? I mean, the song is basically a breakup song right about a person who can't move on? Why did you pick it?"

"Funnily enough, I've been asked this before," Ron said as Hermione looked at him. "I don't really care much for the lyrics. It's just that tune of it, the music, I guess. It's sad and yet somewhat beautiful."

"I see," Hermione said as she and Ron joined in the applause as the band finished its first set. Ron stared at the witch bundled up in her purple coat with pink gloves and a red beanie, her brown bushy hair sticking out from its sides. Under the twinkling of the fairy lights, she looked positively radiant just as she did when she and Krum walked in for the Yule Ball.

"What about you?" Ron asked, eager to converse in order not to be distracted by his poignant thoughts. "What's your favourite song?"

Hermione smiled as she turned to him. "No one's ever asked me that."

"Consider it an honour, Granger."

"Well, I'm not sure if you've heard of them. The song is by a band called Radiohead and it's called Creep."

"Wait, what?!" Ron chuckled as Hermione laughed. "Are these Muggles wearing radios for heads? And what's up with that title?!"

"They're an English rock band formed in Abingdon. Admittedly, I don't listen much to their music but well, during my early years in Hogwarts, I felt a little out of place especially with people not being very kind with me being a Muggle." Hermione spoke as Ron felt slightly uncomfortable.

"But it wasn't just them. I have been a Muggle longer than I've been a witch and honestly, I adore your world, Ron. It's so full of wonder and possibilities and makes me feel really special even if there were times when I felt out of place. I would want so badly to fit in and at the same time stand out and this song reflects the outcast in me, the girl who tries so hard to be a version of someone that she or someone else wishes her to be."

"But you're not a creep, Hermione. Even if you do keep all of Lockhart's books by your bedside." Ron said as Hermione blushed before playfully nudging him again.

"You're the creep, Ron," Hermione said playfully as Ron nodded his head.

"Oh definitely. But how does the song go?"

"I think I have a tape back in my dorm room."

"But I want to hear it now." Ron pouted as Hermione's eyes widened before shaking her head fervently.

"No, I'm not singing, Ron."

"Come on, please."

"Absolutely not," Hermione whispered as her face turned pink. "You're probably going to laugh at me."

"I swear on my life I would never laugh at you."

"You can literally die and come back, Ron so no."

"Please, Hermione. It would be like the best Christmas gift ever!"

"Urghhhh! Fine." Hermione groaned as Ron grinned from ear to ear. Hermione motioned for Ron to move in closer as she leaned forward, each breath forming a small spray of mist though her eyes were shut.

"I don't care if it hurts. I want to have control. I want a perfect body. I want a perfect soul. I want you to notice. When I'm not arounddddd… so very special... I wish I was speciallll" Hermione sang as she dragged her notes. Without warning, she grabbed Ron's hands, startling the wizard.

"But. I'm. A. Creep." Hermione said, emphasizing each word. "I'm a weirdoooooooowhat the hell I'm doing here? I don't belong here. I don't. Belong- "

"Here," Hermione said as her hazel eyes opened to see Ron barely an inch from her face. Ron could feel his heart echoing the emotion pounding throughout his body as he gazed upon her tender face.

"How was that? Stupid, right?" Hermione said as she moved away, removing her hands from Ron.

"Not in the slightest," Ron exclaimed as Hermione bit into a crisp. "That was beautiful, Hermione."

"You're making fun of me, aren't you?"

"No. I'm being completely serious." Ron said firmly as he smiled at the witch. "Okay, fine, you don't have the pipes of Celestina Warbeck but I could feel what you were feeling when you sang it. It's very…moving. Thank you, Hermione. Not just for the song but for everything today. I really needed it."

"You're welcome," Hermione said as she reached out to squeeze his hand. "You deserve it."

Before Ron could reply, a guitar chord broke through amidst the chattering as the band went back on stage once more. Their lead singer, a young Irish girl with a pretty, brunette pixie cut by the name of Cara, stood on stage waving to the cheering Muggles seated in front of her.

"So, as you all know, we do accept requests," Cara said as she lifted what looked like a piece of paper. "Although I must admit, I don't think I've ever received anything on a piece of parchment before."

Ron whipped his head towards Hermione who was now smirking as she stared intently towards the stage.

"So, is there a Ronald Weasley in the crowd tonight?"

"Don't you dare, Granger!" Ron whispered frantically as he grabbed Hermione's hands before the witch could point at him.

"He's he-mmmphhh!" Hermione cried as Ron placed his hand over her lips, muffling her voice. To his relief, the crowd looked in all directions but none turned his way.

"Oh, he's shy." Cara laughed as the crowd joined in. "And I think we all know why. It's not every day that a girl dedicates a song for you."

"I'm going to kill you, Granger." Ron mouthed wordlessly as Hermione broke free of his hold while chuckling to herself.

"Ronald, if you're listening and I think you are, a piece of advice. You know what to do. Don't let this opportunity pass you by."

"That's it. Where's my potion?" Ron said as he dived his hands into his pockets, only for Hermione to lift it out of hers.

"You're not escaping that easily, Ron." Hermione giggled as Ron attempted to reach for the bottle only for Hermione to tuck it into her coat. "Enjoy your surprise."

"Maybe we should find him. Get him to sing on stage with us?" Cara prodded as the crowd yelled cheers of approval.

"Granger, please." Ron pleaded as Hermione shook her head.

"I'm joking." Cara laughed, much to Ron's relief. "Anyways, she asked us to perform a song from the Cranberries which is definitely something we can do. So we thought of performing this recent song from the band. It's a song about your loved ones, those that have passed and those that are still with us and for those of you who still have them, treasure them and love them with all your heart. And even if they're not there with you, it doesn't mean that your love is meaningless. Because you aren't, Ronald Weasley, and will never be."

Ron felt a lump growing in his throat as Hermione squeezed his hand.

"So, stand or sit and just enjoy. This is When You're Gone by the Cranberries." Cara said. As the band began to play, the notes of their music filled the winter night. The sound carried through the crisp air, creating a magical ambience and couples, entranced by the music, started to sway gently to the rhythm, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of the stage lights.

Hold on to love,
that is what I do,
Now that I've found you.
And from above,

everything's stinking,
They're not around you.

And in the night,
I could be helpless.
I could be lonely,
sleeping without you.

And in the day,
everything's complex.
There's nothing simple,
when I'm not around you

Butterflies in his stomach started to flap faster as Ron heard the poignant melody. Though it was his first time hearing the song, Ron could not help but feel a connection with the lyrics. As he snuck a glance at Hermione singing the song, he could feel his heart racing with palpitations bursting on every verse.

But I miss you when you're gone,
That is what I do,

Ba-baby.

And it's going to carry on,
That is what I knew,

Hey Baby.

"Do be da! Do be da!" the crowd sang as Hermione leaned her head against his shoulder. Feeling courageous, Ron put his arm around the witch.

"Sing with me, Ron," Hermione said as the band approached the second verse.

"But I don't sing."

"You do tonight. Hold on to my hands. I feel like sinking, sinking without you." Hermione said as she intertwined her fingers into Ron's hand. "And to my mind, everything's stinking, stinking without you."

"And in the night, I could be helpless. I could be lonely, sleeping with you." Ron sang awkwardly, trying his best to follow the lyrics. "And in the day, everything's complex, there's nothing simple when I'm not around you."

"And I miss you when you're goneeeee, that is what I doooooo, ba-baby," Hermione yelled as Ron laughed.

"And it's going to carry onnnn. That is why I knewwwww, hey baby!" Ron sang out loud as Hermione whistled loudly into the night.

"That was amazing, Ron!" Hermione spoke out loud above the crowd humming along to the end of the song. "A singing Slytherin, ha! Imagine if Malfoy could see you now."

"He'll probably kill me. Or join me."

"You're joking!" Hermione said incredulously. "Malfoy listens to Muggle music?"

"He does borrow my Walkman, you know."

"It's just so…weird!"

"You realise that you're spending the night with a Pureblood Slytherin who has done nothing but take part in everything Muggle tonight, right?"

"Yeah, but you're not Malfoy, Ron. You're…you're…" Hermione said as Ron noticed her gloved fingers fidgeting nervously. Time seemed to stand still as Ron found himself inching closer.

"I'm what, Hermione?" Ron whispered. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the nearby trees, and the air was filled with the subtle fragrance of blooming flowers. Underneath the starlit sky, Ron kept his eyes locked with Hermione's, both unwilling to look away with a shared understanding that transcended words.

"Ron...I..." Though he had only gotten close to her towards the end of the year, Ron felt that they had been through so much together – fights, laughter, tears – and at this moment, it felt like the universe had aligned to bring them to this particular place. He could feel the anticipation between them, a magnetic force pulling them closer together despite Time not deeming it right.

Ron's hand had found its way to Hermione's cheek. As she pressed it against his gloved fingers, her eyes flickered with a mixture of emotions – vulnerability, trust and a promise of more to come. As she met his gaze, Ron pushed all thoughts and logic aside, his heart echoing the silent language between them.

You know what to do. Don't let this opportunity pass you by.

Before Hermione could utter another syllable, Ron closed the gap between them as Hermione closed her eyes in response. He pressed his lips against her, faintly, tenderly at first until he felt her responding in kind. Their lips met in a delicate dance, a culmination of everything that had happened and would happen to them. As he traced the line of Hermione's jaw, Ron felt a warmth spreading throughout his body. After several seconds that seemed like an eternity to Ron, he felt themselves pulling apart.

"Ron…that was…" Hermione felt herself unable to speak, breathless from the kiss that had just happened.

"Hermione…I…" Ron whispered as he stumbled upon the words, his voice breaking.

"Yes, Ron?" Hermione whispered her tone tender and longing.

Throughout his life, Ron could remember every dream he ever had. From joining Slytherin alongside Draco to beating Ginny at Quidditch, from getting top grades to joining the Slytherin Team, from praying that the Chudley Cannons will win the league to praying that both Draco and Ginny were safe. He recalled how he wished he could lift the House Cup, become Head Boy, get married to Tracey and live with Draco and his sister at Malfoy Manor while he and Draco joined the Ministry. Yet every dream he wished for paled in comparison to the one he wanted; he desired right now more than anything.

"Can I kiss you again?" Ron spoke as a tender smile broke out on Hermione's face, her eyes lighting up like the shimmering stars above. This time, as he pressed his lips to her once more, Ron found himself deepening the kiss with all his might as the world around them faded into the background. As Hermione came up for air, Ron could see her face was a mixture of pink and red and he knew it had nothing to do with the cold, winter air.

"Hey." Hermione giggled as she fixed the beanie on Ron's head that had almost dropped off. Ron smiled.

"Hey, ba-by."

…

.

.

.

December 20th, 1996

The goblet shattered into a million pieces as Ron let out a string of curses.

"Mate, what's up with you?"

To his surprise, Ron turned around to see Draco sneaking from behind a couple of wizards.

"Nothing. Just clumsy." Ron muttered as he gazed into the broken shards, each piece showing a little of his reflection. Pulling out his wand, Ron watched as the pieces shifted back into place, the goblet looking as pristine as it did in his hand before.

"You looked like Goyle trying to do Transfiguration." Draco chuckled. "Not sure that look suits you."

"Funny. What are you doing here anyways?" Ron said as he clapped his cousin on his back. "Who are you with?"

"No one. I snuck in." Draco replied triumphantly before glaring at the sight of Filch who looked to be sneaking as many tarts as he could fit into his pockets. "Filthy Squib tried to stop me but Slughorn let me stay."

"Awesome. I could use some company."

"I'm afraid that will have to wait," Draco grumbled as he motioned towards the incoming figure of Professor Snape making his way towards them. "I'll catch you later," Draco said as he disappeared amongst the crowd, their Potions Professor following not far behind.

As Ron leaned against a pillar, his eyes locked back onto his previous line of vision. There she was, standing between his sister and her best friend who seemed to be staring at the sight of his departing cousin. As Harry Potter made his way towards the exit where Draco just left, Ron felt his usual sense of longing pushing him towards her.

No, I can't

"There you are, Ronald," Daphne said as she emerged from the crowd. Ron could see a disgusted expression on the witch's face as she glared at a small red stain at the centre of her lilac dress.

"What happened?" Ron asked as Daphne grimaced in his direction. He had left her in the presence of Eldred Worple, the established author whom Daphne seemed eager to impress while Ron had gone in search of bacon sandwiches.

"That stupid bint of a Professor spilt her drink all over me," Daphne replied as she pointed her wand to her dress. Despite her best efforts and spells, the stain didn't seem to disappear. "I don't understand how they allow that crackpot in Divination. Slughorn made me accompany her to the bathroom where she's passed out."

"Shit, that sucks," Ron said as Daphne narrowed her eyes at him.

"You know, I could have gone to the party with any other guy. Any other guy would appreciate what I'm doing for them."

"Yeah, any other guy would feel so lucky." Ron agreed mirthlessly.

"If you want to put an end to our arrangement, so be it," Daphne growled softly before turning away from him. Cursing under his breath, Ron caught up with her before grabbing her arm and pulling her towards him.

"Weasley, how dare – "

"Tergeo" Ron blurted as Daphne watched in delight as the stain siphoned off her dress, leaving the lilac dress immaculate again.

"Don't say I never did anything for you," Ron whispered.

"I suppose now you'll want your reward," Daphne smirked as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

"Not really," Ron said though he allowed himself to be dragged towards the section where couples were swaying at the spot while the Weird Sisters played their instruments.

"You know, this whole acting like you're not interested is not something every girl likes, Ronald," Daphne said as she and Ron danced on the spot. Leaning up towards him, Daphne whispered "Luckily for you, I'm not every other girl."

"Good to know," Ron said as he forced a smile onto his lips. "But I'm not an idiot, Daphne."

"News to me."

"You think I don't see who you're trying to impress," Ron said as he nudged his head in the direction of a group of middle-aged wizards whose jaws dropped at the sight of Daphne swaying her hips from side to side in her tight dress which accentuated all her curves.

"This is a little bit below your usual standards, isn't it, Greengrass?"

"They have things that I need." Daphne shrugged. "Money. Power. Reputation. You know, things that turn me on."

"Well, at least you know what you want," Ron exclaimed as his eyes darted around the crowd, trying to catch her again. Daphne followed his gaze though the witch looked perplexed at what Ron was trying to see.

"Who are you looking at?"

"Just trying to see if they have bacon sandwiches."

Daphne let out a grunt. "Is that all you think about? Food?"

"Right now? Yeah."

"Then go get what you want," Daphne said, releasing her arms. "But don't take too long. You and I are going to dance at the centre of this room and I want to see more enthusiasm this time." Daphne exclaimed as she stalked away, winking at the middle-aged wizards as she walked past.

Ron paid her no heed as he shifted his way towards the food table. He hadn't lied, he was hungry and the bacon sandwiches were sitting there on a silver platter in front of him. It just so happened that the table was a mere ten metres from where he really wanted to be.

She looked beautiful tonight wearing the same dress she had done before. Ron could see her laughing with Ginny and Dean as the wizard seemed to be reenacting something that had happened in class. Unaware of how long he had been staring, Ron suddenly saw her eyes switched towards his direction, her line of sight locking onto his.

Ron averted his eyes away, paying more attention to the bacon sandwiches than he usually did. As he pretended to study the floral patterns of the tablecloth, his thoughts turned back to the night they kissed. He could recall everything from that night to the moment they set foot on that theme park to the end when he planted a kiss on her lips after accompanying her to the Gryffindor Tower. The moment she disappeared past the Fat Lady's portrait, Ron had snatched up the blue potion bottle and poured it into his lips, willing with all his might that Time would allow him to stay.

Unfortunately, as he felt the cold snow trickling down his back while staring up into the winter Hogsmeade sky with a Firewhiskey bottle in his hand, Ron knew what he had to do.

"I wish things were different for you, Ronald."

Luna's words echoed in his head as Ron watched Harry Potter rejoin his friends. The sight of her face breaking out into a smile as she stared into her best friend's eye was more than he could take but Ron could not bring himself to look away. It felt cruel to torture himself like this but Ron felt it needed to be done. Just as he had done when he avoided her for the past two weeks while news of him and Daphne carried through the school's grapevine. Though she had pleaded for him to do more research on Horcruxes, Ron had brushed her aside, the look on her face reminiscent of the ones she used to give him last year when they passed each other down the corridors.

"I wish so too, Luna. I wish so, too." Ron whispered under his breath as he took back his usual place by the pillar, staring at them from afar. As he watched Hermione Granger laughing and dancing with Harry, Ron could feel his heart breaking into a million pieces just like the goblet did minutes ago.

As the couple were soon joined by Ginny and Dean, dancing the night away to the music of the Weird Sisters, none of them were aware of the redheaded wizard silently chewing on a bacon sandwich as he stared in their direction, his eyes continually lingering.

…

This marks the end of Chapter 9. It's over 25,000 words so it should keep you preoccupied for a while. I hope you all will enjoy it. Please review if you can and for those who have and for those who will review, thank you so much! Happy New Year to you all.