The journey of the heart

by coco29

The journey has started, watch as Harry changes lives for good and bad. He'll love and hate. Find and rediscover family. All while trying to save the wizarding world from evil and life beyond. This story is a collaboration between me (coco29) and ANUBIS the god king. The story starts at the end of the chamber of secrets seconds before he stops Voldemort for the third time. H/Harem

14. Forging bonds

Chapter 14 Forging bonds

26th August 1993, Room 14 (Harry's room), Leaky Cauldron, London

Harry wakes up and wonders where he is. When he sits up. He sees Athena lying in front of the fireplace and Hedwig on a perch he remembers he is in the Leaky Cauldron as Hermione will stay here for the last few days and he wants to be with her. He hopes that if Hermione needs to stay here again he can instead invite her to Andi's house or if her parents aren't sure ask Susan to invite Hermione to her manor. He hopes Susan wouldn't mind as Hermione is his best friend even though Susan is his betrothed.

Harry hopes Sirius will soon tell him why Harry should already wear the Black Heir ring. Harry thinks that he maybe should ask Daphne as she knows much more about wizarding Britain, especially more than Hermione and even himself although he knows quite a lot more than at the start of the summer. The things he learned Dumbledore could do that too so why didn't he? Harry wants to think when he hears a knock. Harry walks to the door and opens it. It is Hermione with Crookshanks and a book.

Crookshanks walks around and meows at Athena and Hedwig before lying next to Athena with a small fire in the fireplace. Without saying a word Hermione walks in takes the chair at his desk and opens her book before she starts reading.

Harry asks "uhh. Good morning, Hermione?"

Hermione doesn't look up and says "good morning, Harry."

Harry can't deny that Hermione looks good again and wants her to stay at his side. He almost wants to demand her to do so. He also almost demands himself to tell her. He wants her on one side with Susan on the other side what surprises him the most and he knows it clearly shows on his face. Fortunately, Hermione is still reading and hasn't noticed it.

Harry says "I am going to take a shower. I will be back in a bit."

Hermione doesn't look up and says "sure Harry. I will wait here."

Harry says "alright."

Harry starts to grab some clothes and enters the bathroom. A little over 10 minutes later he return. As he walks into his room he can't suppress a smile. Hermione sits still in the chair and is still reading. Crookshanks, Athena and Hedwig are also in the same place as before.

While in the bathroom he thought about Hermione and that she looks good with the tan and couldn't help but glance at her many times yesterday and when she entered his room. He can't help himself but look at her and is ashamed as he also feels a kind of possessiveness over her like she is his and no one else can have her. She can have friends but despite only a very, very, very few boys all else should be girls… at least that is how Harry feels. Harry manages to squash the feeling but he knows it is a matter of time before he feels like this again and he has no idea why. Before the summer holiday, he didn't feel like that although he did like her a lot as a best friend, this feeling doesn't feel like something you should feel for your best friend.

He tries to stop thinking about Hermione which is almost impossible but finally, he manages when he starts to look at his tattoos and thinks about what he should tell Andi and Sirius when he sees them again which unfortunately won't be until the next summer without rousing suspicion. He can spend Yule somewhere else but anywhere except the Burrow will make Dumbledore suspicious.

Harry asks "should we go downstairs to get some breakfast, Hermione?"

Hermione says "we should."

Hermione stands up but doesn't stop reading. Hedwig flies to Harry's right shoulder while Athena slitters to Harry and up to his left arm. Crookshanks follows Hermione who is already at the door. Crookshanks knows that his owner isn't ready so doesn't try to jump up at Hermione.

26th August 1993, Leaky Cauldron, London

When they are downstairs and have taken a seat Crookshanks immediately jumps into Hermione's lap. Hermione looks annoyed at her lap until she sees it is Crookshanks. She pets him while putting the book on the table but doesn't stop reading. Harry smiles as he sees Hermione give a small smile of her own.

Harry looks at the bar to see if Tom is there to order breakfast when his eye falls on a woman he has never seen before. He is sure of that but somehow she seems familiar, but Harry cannot place her. He tries to think about how or more importantly where. He doesn't know how long he stares but he can't take his eyes off this woman.

He gets shacking out of his thought when he feels someone grabbing his hand. He looks as sees that Hermione looks at him concerned.

She asks "Harry, is everything alright? You have been staring at the bar for a few minutes already and I called your name but you didn't respond."

Harry smiles and says "oh, I am sorry Hermione. I tried to find Tom, but I couldn't see him."

Hermione blushes because of Harry's smile. She quickly removes her hand as if she burns it and says "oh. Look there is Tom."

Harry looks where Hermione points and sees Tom coming from the kitchen. Harry says "that is why I didn't see him. Hermione, what do you want?"

Hermione says what she wants and Harry nods before getting up to place Hermione's order and his own with a lot of bacon strips for Hedwig and Athena. He orders a lot of food for himself as he is quite hungry which he doesn't notice until he orders breakfast. He makes sure to order some extra bacon strips if Crookshanks want some. He orders also some tea for himself and Hermione asked for coffee.

Tom says "alright Mr. Potter. It will be down in 5 minutes."

Harry says "thank you, Tom."

Harry walks back to the table and Hermione immediately asks how much it was. Harry just says "don't worry about it."

Hermione keeps badgering until Tom comes with the breakfast. Hermione asks Tom "how much do you get from me?"

Tom glances at Harry, but as Harry doesn't respond Tom says "don't worry about it, Miss Granger."

Hermione isn't happy. She pouts at Harry. She asks before Tom leaves "can I get also a big glass of milk and a little dish with milk for my cat?"

Tom says "of course Miss Granger."

When Tom leaves Hermione asks "Harry, why didn't Tom tell me? Did you pay for me? You don't have to do that."

Harry says "maybe Tom doesn't want you to pay everything when you do it and just give you the bill on the morning of the 1st to pay at once. Also, I didn't pay for you."

Harry thinks to himself 'yet.'

Hermione says "maybe you are right. I still want to know how much it is so I know how much I need to pay if I take it every time until the 1st."

Harry says "I wouldn't worry about it."

Tom return with just as big glasses as yesterday and a dish with milk for Crookshanks. He puts both on the table and Crookshanks jumps out Hermione lap up the table and happily meows before he starts lapping up milk.

Hermione grabs her glass of milk. Before she takes a big sip she says "Harry, you have ordered quite a lot of food. Are you very hungry?"

Harry says "yeah, I am just a bit hungry."

Harry ordered more than normal, almost two and half times as much. He hasn't forgotten he needs to eat a lot because of the potions. He isn't even sure if he can eat everything he ordered. He promised Andi he would eat enough and knows he needs to eat a lot and then go upstairs to drink the other one. He knows he needs to say that he will need to get some books and that would make Hermione keep her reading or get her own books which give him enough time to take the potion.

He wouldn't mind that Hermione sees that he takes potions but to explain why he does or who provides him with the potions is something he can't tell her ….. yet, no matter how much he wants to. He finds it difficult to not tell her while he completely trusts her. He hopes during the year he can tell her, but it partially depends on how soon her necklace adjusts to her and whether she still trusts authority figures. He isn't sure about Dumbledore and knows as long as Hermione trusts him he cannot tell her unless she trusts him more than Dumbledore, but he will not force Hermione to choose. He is honestly afraid Hermione will choose Dumbledore above him even if it is purely because he is the headmaster.

26th August 1993, Leaky Cauldron, London

After breakfast, Harry asks "Hermione I have an idea how to read the monster book we have for the care of magical creatures if it is possible to read it."

Hermione asks "oh really Harry? What do you think?"

Harry says "let me explain when we get a book. Should we try yours or mine?"

Hermione immediately says "yours."

Harry says "oh I thought you wanted yours, but that is no problem let's go to my room."

When they walk up the stairs Hermione thinks 'thank Merlin that Harry won't mind. I don't want him to be in my room. I changed this morning four times before I found something I thought Harry would like. Why do I feel like I need to look good for Harry? I have different clothes thrown around the room as I didn't know what he likes and I didn't care about throwing them around while I am normally quite cleaned up, never throwing clothes around. Normally I wouldn't do to that not even at home. Finally, I decide on this short shorts and this shirt that shows I am a growing girl although I think he already look at me when he mentioned my tan.'

'Maybe I will mention the nude beaches I went to this summer. I wasn't allowed to go completely naked and only without a top not that I wanted further and stayed the whole time close to my parents especially as some looks from older boys and even men scared me a bit, but after a little bit, they stopped looking or at least it looked like that and I was getting more comfortable at least how much I could with my father completely naked. My mother was like me only removing her top and being topless like me.'

'Also my trunk with clothes is still open and I don't want him to see my undergarments, I think they are kind of plain at least most of them. It is too soon for him to see… wait why would I want to see him see them when we are older? The clothes I bought, I never did before and everything I bought was because I thought Harry would like them and that was the most important for me. Why?'

'I never wanted skirts, tight shirts, tight short shorts and even sundresses and some of those sundresses are almost partly see-through if the light shines on them in a special way mostly around my stomach and the back. The skirts and sundresses stop a few inches above my knee. I don't like to wear them and only wear skirts as they are part of the Hogwarts uniform for girls. I think when I am older I may like them more than I do now. However, if Harry prefers I wear sundresses when the weather allows or skirts even if it is cold and need to wear pantyhose or stockings for them I would. Wait why would I if it pleases Harry….'

'Also I bought nightdresses as I like sleeping in them but again I hope when Harry sees me he will like them although I still have my nightclothes from last year. The only thought was I hope Harry would like me to wear it if he sees me or maybe I can show him…... why would I do that, it is not like I want to sleep with him …. or more, right? Why do I feel like I want to or must if Harry wants to? What is wrong with me?'

26th August 1993, Room 14 (Harry's room), Leaky Cauldron, London

They enter and Harry asks "why don't you take a seat on the chair while I get the book?"

Hedwig flies to the perch again while Athena lies in front of the fireplace where there is still a small fire going giving the room a nice although a bit hot temperature from the fire and good weather outside. Hermione only nods while Crookshanks joins Athena in front of the fireplace. Harry opens his trunk and starts to move something around. Hermione hears the moment Harry sees the book and even more when he grabs it. The monster book starts to make a sound that looks like a growl as much as it could with the belt around it.

Harry found the book and was pulling it out. Harry was having a bit of difficulty keeping it from going wild. Harry sits on the bed and tries to keep the book on the bed. Harry says "essentially this is a creature. As it is a creature it should act like one and as it attacked me and you needed your father to help close it make me think as it is a creature should it also be calmed down as a creature? Maybe if we calm it down we can read it."

Hermione says "that sounds logical, Harry. How do you suggest we calm it down?"

Harry says "it may sound weird but I thought about petting it. As Athena and Hedwig like a scratch at a certain spot I thought about that but I don't see a spot the book would like, but like Crookshanks what Athena and occasionally Hedwig like is stroking the back. However the normal back is the underside, but then I thought If we read the book as normal that the back is the binding what in creature should be the spine."

Hermione looks amazed at Harry. She is almost shaking and bouncing in pleasure that Harry is really using his brain for once. She is feeling arousal, but pushes it down and doesn't want to think it is arousal and just blames the hot weather, not on Harry as Harry uses his mind for a book she finds extremely hot.

Hermione asks "do you already try? Do you think it will work?"

Harry says "I didn't try yet I just thought about it when you were petting Crookshanks. I did examine the book before. Do you think we should give it a try?"

Hermione nods. She wants to know if it works because if she does, she has a whole new book to read before Hogwarts. Harry put his hand on the binding of the book, the spine.

Harry holds his hand there and the book doesn't seem to notice as it still is and sounds aggressive. It doesn't calm down not even a little bit. Slowly Harry starts to stroke the spine of the book. A first it doesn't seem to work but when it is halfway down the spine the book starts to calm down. Harry continues to stroke the spin. The third time after from top to bottom and the other way around the mouth disappears and it looks like a normal book.

Hermione looks at Harry and the smile Harry shoots at her almost makes her melt and she hopes that her soaked panties aren't visible through her short shorts. She knows she needs to excuse herself soon.

Harry says "look, Hermione. I think it worked."

Harry immediately removes the belt and starts reading. After a few minutes, he sees that the book has his eyes again and starts to thrash around a bit. Harry continues to stroke the spine and the book's eyes disappear again and stop trashing.

Harry says "I think if you read it you need to continue to stroke the spin so you can put it down on the table to read or make notices. That can be a bit difficult. Maybe you can make it stand on the table and every few minutes stroke the spin."

Hermione nods and says "I think that can work."

Hermione feels something of her trying to connect to Harry. When she feels something of Harry her already soaked panties get even wetter if that was possible.

She says "Harry excuse me. I will be back in a little bit."

Harry says "sure Hermione."

Crookshanks stands up when he sees that Hermione is moving to the door.

Hermione sees that and says "you can stay here Crookshanks. I will be back soon."

Hermione quickly gives Crookshanks a pet and Crookshanks gives her a meow before returning to lie beside Athena.

Hermione immediately leaves. Harry thinks 'I hope everything is alright. I can better use this time to drink the potion Andi gave me. I think I can better ask Hermione if she still has my notes and I can have them back or maybe talk about the homework. Or should I tell her what I told Mr. Granger that you can do some magic as long as no one who doesn't know about magic see it although most aren't very useful in a muggle house as muggle houses have electrical light so you don't need Lumos, although Reparo may seem very useful? I read about it in the DADA book, I hope our teacher this year will teach us as it seems very useful especially as it is to repair things although not everything can be repaired with the spells like clothes.'

Harry drinks the potion and decides to bind the book again before putting the book back in his trunk as also the vial. Harry waits on Hermione which takes almost fifteen minutes before Hermione returns and sees that Hermione has changed her pants into a skirt.

Harry likes it a lot and asks "Hermione why did you change into a skirt?"

Hermione asks almost afraid "why do you ask Harry? Don't you like it?"

Harry likes it a lot and won't lie. He says "no Hermione, actually I like it a lot. I just never saw you were a skirt unless when we are in Hogwarts and need to wear our uniform."

Hermione says "I wear it as it is hot and it will only become hotter. If you like I would like to look through Diagon Alley this afternoon and I think with the pants I would feel uncomfortable."

Harry says "oh alright. Uhhh Hermione your legs are also tanned."

Hermione says as a matter of fact "yes Harry. We were at a beach and I wore a two-piece."

Hermione thinks 'Gryffindor charge forward. I think I want Harry to see me as a girl.'

Hermione is blushing and says "we also went to a nude beach."

Harry's eyes went wide and he looks her over and she immediately notices.

Hermione immediately continues and embarrassingly says "I wasn't allowed to go bare not that I wanted to but I did go without my top part."

Harry blushingly asks "so…"

Hermione interrupts Harry and says "yes, Harry I am also tanned there" while she motioned at her breasts.

Hermione says "Harry, you are my best friend that I why I tell you, but please don't tell anyone else certainly no boys and especially Ronald. Please, Harry."

Harry stands up and says "I will not Hermione, you can trust me. I am happy you told me Hermione as it seems that you really trust me."

Hermione glares into his green eyes which almost make her melt again. She needs to focus on her will and just barely manages to not get lost in them or melt again. She feels she is getting wet. She manages to say with conviction "I do trust you, Harry James Potter, you prat."

Harry smiles and Hermione groans to not moan instead.

Hermione decides to change the embarrassing topic although she is happy she could tell Harry and is happy it makes Harry notice she is a (growing) girl. She asks "did you finish your homework?"

Harry smiles and says "yes I did Hermione."

Harry looks in his trunk to get the homework out. The moment he grabs a parchment with his potion homework Hermione grabs it and starts reading it. Harry just shrugs and starts to grab other homework. However, every time Harry grabs parchment with homework Hermione grabbed it even if she hasn't read the other one completely yet.

Harry sees that Hermione walks to the chair and sits on it without looking up. Harry smiles and just sits down on his bed with the book for Ancient Runes. He likes it a lot but also as he tries to find the runes he has seen on the Foretolds (the necklaces). He has already read a bit of Arithmancy and he remembers that most of the first couple of chapters look at what he learned in primary school, especially the last three years.

When it is almost lunch Hermione put the last homework down and says "Harry, it is really good. It is much better than the last two years, especially potions. Also, there were even some things I didn't think about especially in Charms and Transfiguration, did you keep yourself back? I know you are good in Defence Against the Dark Arts despite the awful teachers."

Harry tries to not show he is lying and says "of course not Hermione. It is just that I had more time for it as I didn't spend the summer with my relatives, so I could put more thought into them and no I didn't hold myself back."

Harry doesn't know for sure if he really held back but he never tried his best. First to not scare Ron away and after Halloween, he didn't want to challenge Hermione as she will not like that, especially in Transfiguration as Professor McGonagall is her idol. Hermione told him that. Harry isn't sure if he can challenge her for the top spot she has for all the classes besides Defence Against the Dark Arts. He is the best in that and he didn't want to try for the others purely for Hermione. Harry knows Hermione is good in the theory but he is good at the practical but never tried to outshine her not even when Harry knows the spell he purposely fails until Hermione managed it.

Harry doesn't know if Hermione sees that he lies or not although she didn't with Athena although he didn't completely lie.

Harry says "it is almost lunch. Why don't we go downstairs to get lunch? After that, you wanted to go to the Diagon Alley right?"

Hermione glares at him. Harry tries not to show him being bothered. After a full minute, Hermione drops her glare and nods. She says "yes, Harry. Why don't we go? Do you think we can let Crookshanks here with Hedwig and … Athena?"

Harry says "I am sure we can. Hedwig is sleeping and Athena likes the warmth of the fire in the fireplace just like Crookshanks. Also, I see that you are still apprehensive of Athena but you don't need to worry. You can trust me."

Hermione sighs and says "I know I can Harry. Let's get downstairs …. Oh, wait I first want to get a book from my room. Just go downstairs to get a table."

Harry chuckles and says "sure Hermione."

26th August 1993, Leaky Cauldron, London

Harry finds a nice table in the corner hoping to not attract any attention mostly because he gets enough attention at Hogwarts as the-boy-who-lived as it is. He is afraid he will even get more attention as supposedly Sirius is after him to kill him. Harry wonders why Dumbledore didn't warn him or didn't he know it yet as he is still away from England.

Harry wants to think about but he can't as the moment Hermione descends the stairs his attention is fully on her and how good she looks. He can't control looking at her, it is like he can't look at anyone else. She somehow draws him in.

Hermione feels eyes on her and when she looks she sees it is Harry that looks at her. She smiles and walks toward him.

Harry sees her smile and he can't deny it is one of the most beautiful things he has ever seen. As soon as he thinks about it he hates himself as he already has a betroth and he can only think about Hermione at this moment. He tries to think of Susan but it doesn't help. It actually made it worse as now he sees Hermione and Susan in his mind. Both give a radiant smile at him and that makes him very happy. But also the feeling they belong to him as they should be, both of them.

He tries to use Occlumency to empty his mind and fortunately it works right as Hermione reaches his table and takes a seat. Hermione has the book about Ancient Runes and Harry asks "try to find out what is on the necklace?"

Hermione nods. She just asks "Harry, can you go to Tom and just order me what you want with butterbeer and milk please?"

Harry chuckles a bit and says "sure Hermione."

During lunch, Harry almost needs to grab the book for her to eat and after lunch, it took almost half an hour before Hermione goes to her room to put the book back and they go into Diagon Alley. Harry is happy with everything that changed this summer in his life and thought one thing never changed and that is Hermione and her love for books, to learn, study and read.

Harry notices that Hermione looks amazed at the amount that Harry eats compared to before the summer. Harry hopes that his hunger will abate a bit when he doesn't use the potions anymore but first he needs to get the potions he needs and need to know if he still needs to eat a lot or not even if he isn't that hungry. He hopes Andi bring them so he can ask. Or maybe Nymfie although he hopes Andi told her what he needs to know but he can always send a letter. Hedwig will probably even like to fly to Andi although it is close by compared to flying from Hogwarts to here.

26th August 1993, Diagon Alley, London

As soon as they enter Diagon Alley it is very busy that Hermione grabs Harry's wrist to not lose him. Hermione manages to suppress the warm feeling and the shivers that go up her spine. She has never felt this before not even when she hugged Harry last year although now she thinks back she felt a very small part of the wonderful feeling she feels now by merely grabbing his wrist and dragging him along.

Harry follows Hermione and her pull. He smiles when he sees where she is heading. Like Harry expected Hermione drag him to Flourish and Blotts and doesn't let go until they are right in front of the bookstore. Harry doesn't see that Hermione is blushing and reluctantly let go of his wrist as he barely walks into Hermione.

She immediately rushed inside hoping Harry hasn't seen her blush and her reluctance to let go.

26th August 1993, Flourish and Blotts, Diagon Alley

When Harry enters he can't suppress a smile when he sees Hermione's bushy hair he likes disappear behind one of the many bookcases. Harry decides to look at the defence, charms and transfiguration sections as he always felt that he was quite good at those kinds of magic.

While he searched although he wasn't sure if he should buy another book as he still was reading and learning Occlumency although it was mostly on his own knowledge he was wondering if he will like and be able to do any of the electives he chose although he seems to be very decent in Ancient Runes and Arithmancy, as he has seen so far, looks like math he had the last two years in primary school. Also, he hasn't even fully read the duelling book from Professor Flitwick, that he wrote many years ago but has looked inside it looked really good.

After almost half an hour Harry decides to sit in the chair and table near the window so he can look into Diagon Alley. Harry would like some books but Andi said he shouldn't as Occlumency is the most important even though his Heir ring gives him a bit of protection.

Harry knows it will take quite some time before he will see Hermione appear between the bookcases but he doesn't care. Hermione is happy here and that is all he cares about at this moment.

Harry sees some of the other students walk by. He wonders why no one enters Flourish and Blotts. Harry hasn't seen that Aurors stay close to the door as they are stationed here so Amelia pretends she is looking for Sirius. Sirius knows to not be in or near Diagon Alley mostly by Amelia and Andi will hex him if he tried. The glare of the Aurors for anyone who tried to enter made everyone don't even get close to the door except Parvati and Padma Patil. They enter as if nothing happened and immediately rush to Harry meaning they must have seen him from the outside.

They don't hug him like Hermione would have done but instead, they both grab him with one arm making him pinned between them. A woman that looks a lot like Padma and Parvati before he sees a female he is sure he has seen before entering.

The woman says something that seems to make Padma and Parvati let go of him, but they do not. Parvati says "mom, I would like you to introduce Harry Potter, he is my housemate and is in the same year."

The mother of them holds out her hand. Parvati lets go of Harry reluctantly and Harry kisses her hand and says "it is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Patil."

Parvati immediately grabs hold of Harry again. Padma and Parvati are very surprised at Harry's formal response as he never did when he met them and they are Heiresses of House Patil. Although foreign they have a wizengamot seat as the Ancient House of Patil thanks to England controlling India for many years including magical India. It is independent now (as is magical India) but it managed to give them the Ancient House title even though they are still seen as foreigners even though quite a couple of generations were born in England. They will not get the Noble title because they are seen as foreigners. While their parents loved them dearly without a boy marrying a British witch the chance to get the Noble title is almost impossible. House Patil had mostly daughters and if they have a son like their father they always marry a witch from India. If they have daughters like Padma and Parvati then the English man must take their name but all the daughters need to marry an Indian wizard if the Lord wants that.

Harry asks "Parvati and Padma can you please release me too?"

Padma immediately let go clearly blushing and Parvati as her outgoing sister says "alright Harry."

Parvati reluctantly let him go. Harry turns to both of them and says "Heiresses of House Patil it is a pleasure to meet you. I am Heir Harry James Potter of House Potter. Please let me say you look both beautiful today. You may call me Harry."

Padma and Parvati look shocked but have learned to keep their hands out and Harry kisses them both. He first kisses Padma's hand and she says clearly still embarrassed in a small voice "you may call me, Padma. It is pleasure to meet you again Heir Potter …. I mean Harry."

Harry then kisses Parvati's hand. Parvati is clearly surprised and shocked by Harry complimenting them on how they look. She can't suppress sounding like Padma and says with a small voice "you may call me Parvati. It is a pleasure to meet again Harry and for the first time as we should as Heiresses and you as Heir Potter."

Lady Patil clears her throat and says "it is indeed a pleasure to meet you, Heir Potter. My name is Maya Patil. As you seem quite close with my daughters you don't have to call me Lady Patil in all situations. You can call me Mrs. Patil if you prefer."

The woman that enters after them looks surprised but immediately walks to the closed bookcases and just as Hermione disappears between them. Harry doesn't really think about it, especially when at the same time Hermione appears again.

She says "I thought I heard you talking to someone Harry. Parvati and Padma it is so good to see you again. How has your summer been?"

Parvati says "hey Hermione. It was great we went to India, to where our family comes from and we just arrived back yesterday evening so we need to rush a bit to get our new supplies and books."

Padma nods but says "can you show us what we need?"

Hermione smiles and says "of course, this way."

Lady Patil says "we can just get the standard third year set at the counter right?"

Padma says "yes mom, but we also have electives this year and we may need a couple of books to help with the electives or the other classes that aren't required but very helpful. If we have our own we don't need to go to the library with the chance if it is already used by others who don't want to share especially in my house."

Lady Patil while not studying at Hogwarts when she was going to school knows that Ravenclaw likes to gain knowledge and quite a lot don't like to share and while Padma didn't say it she knows from her husband that nobody wants to work with Slytherins and even inside the house most don't want to work with other Slytherin not that he was a Slytherin. He was a Gryffindor.

Harry just smiles and takes a seat back while Lady Patil gets the book sets for her daughters while they are looking for the books they need for their electives and any additional books. Harry thinks from what he has seen and the houses that Padma will come back with more books than Parvati and that Parvati probably talks most of the time about the rumours she heard. Harry knows one thing for sure if Hermione doesn't come back angry and yell at him Parvati doesn't know about Susan but even he knows it will be a matter of time. He still isn't sure if he can prepare Hermione or even how to do it. He has the feeling Ron will not accept it not even if he prepares Ron or bluntly tell him. Although if he tells Ron will surely blab about it or even go running to Hermione to tell her.

Almost an hour later Harry is feeling hungry again. He stands up and walks to the bookcases to try to find at least Hermione. He rounds one corner and it seems Parvati is whispering probably some gossip. Parvati sees him and says "oh hey Harry."

Hermione and Padma look at him and have a blush intensifying. Harry hopes it doesn't mean it goes about him but as Hermione isn't mad it isn't about him and Susan being betrothed by marriage contract.

Harry says "Hermione I was wondering if you are done as I was thinking of going to Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour for a snack. Padma and Parvati, you and your mother are of course invited."

Parvati says "oh we would love to go with you to Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour don't you agree Hermione? Padma?"

They both nod. Hermione says still heavily blushing "give me a few minutes to put the books back."

Harry nods and says "sure I will wait by the table."

Back at the table, Harry asks "Mrs. Patil, I was wondering if you and Parvati and Padma would like to join Hermione and me for a snack at Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour?"

Harry doesn't notice the woman who is still in the store listening in.

Mrs. Patil says "if we don't intrude and Parvati and Padma would like to I don't see a problem."

A few minutes later Hermione, Padma and Parvati return. Before their mother can ask Parvati says "are you ready Harry? We would like to go to Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour."

Mrs. Patil says "I don't need to ask it seems. Padma and Parvati I got your books and also asks for the electives you chose and still Parvati while Divination is interesting you are not a seer."

Parvati says "I know mom, but as you said it is interesting. Also, non-seers can still learn things to see the future."

Mrs. Patil shakes her head and says "Arithmancy that Padma follows see way more logical. Parvati if you really want to follow Divination I will not stop you, just think about it. Oh yes before I forget the book for the care of magical creatures is actually a monster."

Mrs. Patil shows Parvati and Padma the book, one for each. Padma and Parvati are afraid. Hermione gives Harry a nudge and uses her head to point. Harry understands.

Harry says "the book looks vicious but Hermione and I figured out if you stroke the spin of the book it will calm down and after a couple of strokes you can actually read the book. However, I do advise you to stroke the spin after every paragraph or after every note to make sure it keeps calm."

Behind him, Harry hears the clerk mutter "oh blood hell why didn't anyone tell me? I almost lost a few fingers and have a lot of scratches when I grab them."

No one commented to the clerk and just ignore him as they walk to the door.

Right before they leave the store Mrs. Patil says "we will go to Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour but don't forget we can't stay too long as we have more shops to go to."

Padma and Parvati say "yes mom."

When they leave with Harry at last he is surprised when he feels for Parvati and Padma the same as he does for Hermione. The feeling for Hermione is very strong and for Parvati and Padma rather weak but still, he wants them to submit to him if Hermione and Susan allow Padma and Parvati to join them.

Harry gives a smile and thinks 'it seems Susan becomes just as important as Hermione at least I am happy about that.'

26th August 1993, Leaky Cauldron, London

Hermione and Harry have spent the whole afternoon with Padma and Parvati including their mother. Harry and Hermione already had their supplies but they decided to stay with them. Harry invited them to have dinner but Parvati and Padma declined as they could have done that at Hogwarts and Lady Patil also said that her husband expected them home before dinner.

Parvati and Padma hugged Hermione and says they would see them in the Hogwarts express or otherwise in Hogwarts. They didn't do it with Harry not that Harry minded. Parvati wanted to but when she got close to Harry after hugging Hermione, Hermione started to glare at her. Parvati steps away and gives Harry a wave as did Padma. Parvati gave a mischievous smile and says before she steps into the floo "have fun, but not too much."

She left with a laugh while Padma blushed and immediately followed Parvati. Lady Patil shakes her head and says something in a language neither Hermione nor Harry understand before she leaves.

Harry and Hermione have dinner together. While Harry was mostly quiet Hermione was talking about the coming year about everything she already read and how interesting everything looked. She just couldn't wait to learn. She gently brought up Sirius.

Harry was happy she did. He tried to reassure her without giving her any idea that he knows Sirius or is certain that he is innocent as Harry full believed Sirius. However, if he is forward Hermione would certainly think he knows something and he doesn't want to lie more than he already did about Athena not being the Basilisk. He didn't lie completely as she isn't the Basilisk at this moment but still it felt wrong. He knows that one day it will come out one way or another but he hopes he can be the one to tell Hermione and Susan as his betroth and any of his other friends although he knows that Ron will never accept it and Ginny will be difficult as her history with the Basilisk.

27th August 1993, Room 14 (Harry's room), Leaky Cauldron, London

It is late at night. Harry is awake and thinks about the last two days. He likes to be with Hermione and hopes that one day he would feel as comfortable with Susan as he is with Hermione right now. He can't deny that Hermione looks good with her tan and is certainly growing especially in certain places. He shouldn't think like that as she is his best friend and he is already betrothed although he can and probably needs more wives. Susan allows it but Hermione would never and also he doesn't want to lose Hermione's friendship. What surprised Harry the most was that today she wore another skirt that looked really good. It was a bit shorter than her previous one and the skirt from Hogwarts. It still looks like her and it is not too short. Together with the shirt that was tight to her, he couldn't look away and almost drooled. He became even more possessive than he already was.

Harry gets shocked out of his thought when there is a knock on his door. He wonders who it can be as Hermione said she would go to sleep soon although she first wanted to read a bit. He thinks she is still awake but why would she knock on his door at this time? If she wanted to read together or say something she could have told them before they were going to bed although that is almost an hour ago.

Harry immediately put on some easy pants and a shirt as he sleeps only in his boxer when he is alone since he has clothes that fit him including underwear and he was already planning to go to sleep soon. He opens the door and is surprised when he sees Andi in front of him.

Andi smiles and says "good evening Harry. I hope I didn't wake you?"

Harry shrugs and says "I wasn't sleeping yet, Andi. Please come in."

Andi smiles and says "thank you Harry dear."

Andi walks in. Harry makes sure Hermione's door is still closed before he closes the door. Harry says "it is nice to see you, Andi. I know I don't know you long but I did miss."

Andi says "it really is Harry. I miss you to Harry, not only when you came with the mutt but also therefor. Anyway, I got the potions here for you and I got you a present I forgot to give you."

Andi grabs two small packages out of her pocket. She waves her wand and both packages enlarge. The smallest of the two has wrapping paper so that should be his present and that means the others are the potions he needs to take in the coming probably weeks as the size of that package.

Andi put them both on the desk. She says "I think we should start with the present for your Birthday."

Harry can't help but feel happy having an Aunt that gives him a real present. Harry grabs the present and can't control himself and start pulling the wrapping paper off it throwing it somewhere behind him. Andi can't suppress a smile and seeing Harry happy.

Harry opens it and sees a pair of seeker goggles. Harry doesn't know what to say.

Andi says "I hope you like them. These are seeker goggles. I wanted to give them earlier as I bought them for you the first time when we were in Diagon Alley as a belated Birthday present but we were too busy at the time."

"I know that Hogwarts would provide you with Quidditch uniform, goggles and seeker gloves but these goggles are a bit different. I wanted to also buy you seeker gloves but I didn't know what you prefer."

"Anyway these goggles have some improvement than those Hogwarts provide. First of all, I can make the glasses of the goggles have the same correction as your glasses so you don't need to wear your glasses if you wear the goggles during Quidditch as the goggles are easier to keep on."

"Also the goggles have the Impervius Charm. It is a charm you will probably learn in your fifth year, your OWL year. At least I did. The Impervius Charm will repel water meaning if you play in rain, snow or fog the glasses of your goggles will not give you any trouble seeing and you don't need to take your goggles off to make the glasses clear during battle. It should be on your goggles for a long time. At least until the next summer no matter the weather."

Harry grabs the goggles and they feel also light, lighter than the goggles he got from Hogwarts. It also feels smoother. Harry smiles and can't suppress hugging Andi.

Harry mumbles "thank you, Andi."

Andi says "you are welcome dear. Now put them on so I can adjust the glasses. I know the charm."

Harry does. Without saying anything Andi starts to wave her wand. She says "Harry say stop when you have a clear view."

After almost two minutes Harry says "stop."

Andi nods and says "good Harry?"

Harry says "yes this is great. Can't you do that for my eyes so I don't need glasses?"

Andi says "no, Harry. While magic can do a lot we can't make eyes if you have bad eyesight. Be happy that the chance you get medical issues with your eyes like muggles is almost nonexistent although you can get worse eyesight when you get older, although it wouldn't;t be as bad as muggles can have."

Harry says "I thought so otherwise, my dad would not wear glasses either."

Andi says "yes, I am sorry but using magic to try to fix someone's eyesight is also very dangerous as one wrong move and you lose your eye or will be blind. No on a happier note, I also have your potion here."

Harry takes the goggles off and places them on the desk in the box and puts his glasses on again.

Andi grabs the box and gives it to Harry. Harry opens the box and sees a lot of potions. Andi says "there is more than needed but I want to make sure you have enough."

"Unlike the other potion, this potion works slower and you need to use more which also means it takes a longer time. The potion I gave you the last few days was to give things you needed immediately one of the reasons you need to eat a lot. I think in the coming days you will grow a bit and fill out a bit like you should have been just like your father especially because of the Quidditch training you have as did your father."

"For this potion also make sure you eat enough as otherwise, the potion may not work as intended. It may take a few weeks maybe more for you to be done with this potion regime. There may be a bit of a magical backlash but that should be minimal as this isn't working for your magic although if you don't eat enough it may start to use your magic. It will not make you weaker but it will make you tired easier as it uses magic you have."

"If it needs to use a lot of your magic it may eventually damage your magic so you really should eat enough. If you don't manage to get enough food make sure you call Dobby as he can give you extra food even if he needs to get it from our house."

Harry can't suppress a big smile when Andi calls her house, our house meaning she hopes Harry also sees it as his house.

Andi tries not to comment and continues "now Harry this potion you need to take right before breakfast and should work one entire day. I would suggest starting tomorrow morning as it should help with the potion I gave before. I think about two and a half or three weeks should be enough for you to be done with the potions. I put one month's worth of potions in the box just to make sure you have enough."

"If you have an Astronomy lesson at night, I would suggest having a snack before you go to sleep and drinking the potion after the snack the moment before you go to sleep."

Harry says "alright Andi. How are you doing and Padfoot? What about Nymfie? Dobby and Kreacher?"

Andi says "I am doing fine Harry. I came here to give you your present, see that you are alright and, unfortunately, here to already wish you a good school year. Also to let you know if you ever need me just send Hedwig and I will be there as soon as I can with or without anyone's approval. I will fight my way into Hogwarts if that is needed. I am sure with Padfoot I won't fail."

Before Andi can continue Harry hugs her. Harry has tears from the happiness that he finally has an adult that cares about him and just because he is Harry and his family of her. Sure Professor McGonagall looks like someone he can trust but thinking about last year she did nothing to stop others from calling him the Heir of Slytherin making Harry not see her like he sees Andi. Professor McGonagall did look like she wanted to say something but didn't. Harry wonders why but forgets that thought when Andi starts to hug him back.

It goes on for what looks like forever. Finally was seems like an entirety Harry, let go. Andi kept hugging him the whole time and even went on a little longer after Harry let go. When Andi is sure Harry is fine she lets go. Andi was happily surprised by Harry's hug despite tears that now have formed wet spots on her robe.

Andi says "the mutt is doing alright although he wishes he could be here for you and not as Padfoot but as himself. I don't know about Dora she is on a mission right now and will be for the next couple of days but I am almost certain she will see you off. Unfortunately, you cannot acknowledge her as you should right now but that doesn't mean she will try to wish you a good year."

"Kreacher and Dobby are doing alright although Dobby is very sad you don't want him to be with you. I try to order him to help Kreacher with Grimmauld Place as according to Padfoot it needs a good cleaning. Dobby does but isn't happy you didn't order him."

"Kreacher is forbidden to talk to my dear Aunt Walburga painting and Dobby is sure Kreacher doesn't. Kreacher is still foul most of the time but it is more behind our back when he thinks we can't hear him and that is an improvement that he doesn't do it in our face and that his mistress will be displeased but that is probably as the mutt doesn't have a Lady … yet. His Lady will probably also be a pureblood which can help Kreacher's behaviour a bit so that he doesn't hate Sirius anymore which in turn can change his attitude to half-bloods, half-breeds, muggleborn and maybe even muggles as long as they are related to the muggleborn or half-bloods a bit in the right direction."

Harry says "I wouldn't count too much on it though."

Andi sighs and says "maybe it is wishful thinking."

Harry says "probably, but even if he gets neutral to Padfoot, you, Nymfie and me it will be better than he is now. If Hermione ever meets him I will not let him disrespect Hermione. If at that time he is neutral towards us he will not disrespect her if we order him not to. He will not unless maybe if none of us is close but I don't care about that as I am sure that it happens like in the Slytherin Common Room where Hermione or I don't hear it so."

Andi says "if that is your plan, it isn't a bad one but first we need to see if Kreacher not talking to Aunt Walburga's painting and sleeping in our house helps him with his behaviour."

Harry says "I guess you are right. I hope if it really does you will see the change in a couple of months if not weeks. I really hope I am right."

Andi says "I hope so too Harry. We still have Dobby in that case."

Harry says "I guess so. Something just tells me it should work for Kreacher to become less foul."

Andi smiles and says "if you really think so Harry. It may help."

Harry nods. It was silent for almost a minute Andi says "I guess you still have the empty vial, let me take that. And as it is late, Harry, I think it is better if I go right now and let you sleep."

Harry nods and grabs the empty vial. Harry gives it and Andi put it in one pocket and asks "can I get another hug, Harry?"

Harry nods slowly and Andi pulls him in a hug. Harry wasn't sure as it didn't help to get aroused right before bed. Harry was having a hard time since being with Hermione almost like he is aroused or her mere presence and now he is again pushed between the full breasts of a mature and beautiful witch. Harry is happy he is pushed between her breasts as that suppresses any sound he makes, it suppresses his groan although it is a groan of pleasure. He is a male after all and he can't deny that Andi looks very good almost like not older than being in the mid twenty, the prime of her life.

Finally, Andi lets go and say "now go to sleep, you don't want to have Hermione be mad at you for not being well rested and looking sleepy."

Harry smiles but inside he thinks 'really Andi after you pushed me between your breasts. It is more like you tease me and has talked with Hermione to do so. It is almost cruel although I know you won't try to. It is just my teenage mind to see things that aren't there like you teasing me.'

Andi leaves and says before closing the door. She says "if possible Harry I will try to see you at Hogsmeade weekend if I can. Also if we think it is time to reveal me as your guardian we will let you know. Even if it isn't right for the next summer you will stay with the mutt, Dora and me as long as the mutt doesn't do something stupid otherwise it will just be me Dora and me."

Harry smiles and says "I am sure Padfoot will listen to you, Andi."

Andi sighs deeply and says "I hope so for you and his sake but while he grows up a bit I still see the reckless Gryffindor in him. Oh yes.. that reminds me. Harry don't be reckless."

Harry wants to say something when Andi immediately says "I really need to go. Bye Harry dear."

Andi opens the door, leaves and immediately closes the door. Harry slowly shakes his head before undressing again and thinks 'I should really go to sleep. I hope I can get to sleep.'

28th August 1993, Harry's room (room 14), Leaky Cauldron, London

Harry wakes up. He sees another owl beside Hedwig. He always leave the window open if Hedwig wanted to hunt, stretch his wings or wanted to deliver a letter. He still doesn't know how she knows, she never tells him. He thinks it may be because of the bond although Hedwig knew it even before the bond.

Harry recognizes the owl. It is Errol the Weasley's owl. Harry thinks it must be they have returned. Harry gets out of bed and looks at his desk. There lies the letter Errol must have delivered. He immediately notices Ron's messy handwriting. He opens it to read.

Hey Harry,

Egypt was perfect. Charlie surprised us by being there too. We had the whole family together. We all liked that very much. Bill showed us some pyramids and told us the history of Egypt and the pyramids we saw although I don't remember. You should see the sweets I got from Egypt as I also have some left for you, I think.

I haven't heard from you so I don't know if you can go to Diagon Alley tomorrow. Can please send me a letter and if needed I am sure my father can get you from your muggle relatives to go to Diagon Alley to get your supplies, you need them after all.

Harry winces a bit. He hasn't sent Ron a letter mostly as he was in Egypt and didn't want to send Hedwig. Also telling Ron he changed electives was better if he told him when he meet him.

He could have sent he would be able to get his supplies but he didn't know if he would be here on the 28th of August that is today. He hasn't met Sirius until the start of August and that was when Ron and the other Weasleys were already in Egypt.

Harry continues reading.

It is unfair we need to take electives. We already have enough homework as it is and the classwork is too much, not only last year but our first year too. I hope divination and care of magical creatures are easy as I want to start flying as this is the last year Oliver is at Hogwarts meaning next year we need a new keeper. I hope I can show Oliver I should be his replacement and he will help me get better. What do you think Harry when we leave Hogwarts Quidditch teams will be standing in line for you and me. You, the great seeker and me, the unbeatable keeper of course where you go I go.

Anyway, please let me know as soon as possible if you can come to Diagon Alley on the 29th of August.

Ron

Harry thinks 'this is a long letter for Ron. I think I send him a letter back with Hedwig for tomorrow although I must first ask Hermione if she wants to go into Diagon Alley with Ron and the Weasleys or maybe she would prefer to talk to Ginny, but first, she must haven't had a problem with meeting them tomorrow.'

Harry takes a quick shower before dressing and takes the letter.

28th August 1993, Leaky Cauldron, London

He knocks on Hermione's door. Harry hears Hermione saying "wait a minute."

After a little over a minute, Hermione opens the door and she says "hey Harry. I was just finishing getting dressed. What do you have there?"

Harry hasn't heard one word. He stares at her as she wears a sundress that looks really good on her and even showed a bit of cleavage even though she doesn't have big breasts. He is sure he is drooling but he can't stop as he looks at his own little brunette bookworm angel.

Hermione tries to be embarrassed and mad at Harry but she is happy that it has the effect she hoped when she finally wasn't afraid anymore to wear it as she bought to wear it for him in France.

As Harry keeps staring Hermione becomes a bit self-conscious afraid it doesn't look as good as she hopes. She sees Harry's eyes start to blink again. She asks "uhh Harry?"

Harry gives her a smile that makes her a little weak in her knees. He says "wow Hermione, you look really radiant. I am sorry if I embarrassed you, but you just looked so good and in a sundress, I never saw you wear before."

Hermione gives an embarrassing smile and says "oh I am happy you liked it. As it is quite warm outside and France was also I bought this sundress there. I thought in the spirit of Gryffindor to buy a red one but I didn't like the hard red colour so I bought this one, a soft red one that looks pinker and also much better with my hair."

"Now what can I do for you?"

Harry asks "can I come into your room or do you prefer not to."

Hermione says "if you can give me a few minutes to clean up and make room for you to sit."

Harry says "sure I will wait here."

Hermione smiles and closes the door. She is freaking out. With all the clothes across her room and her books including that Harry likes her sundress. She still has two others one black and the other emerald, not like the Slytherin green as she would hate herself as it was that kind of green. The emerald is very bright just like Harry's eyes.

It takes a couple of minutes before she put the clothes back and puts the books in a neat stack on her desk. She walks back to her door and looks. Harry is leaning against the wall at the side of the door. She says "I am done come in."

Harry just smiles and walks inside. He sees the chair and takes a seat. He says "I got a letter from Ron and want to know what you think?"

Let's end here for now. I want to apologize to all who follow this or one of my other stories. I have a busy time behind me and my muse was gone for a bit. Recently my muse is slowly coming back to me.

In the next chapter, we see Hermione's answer to the letter and we do indeed see Andi and Sirius talk. We see the Weasley's arriving and if possible the train ride.

Please read and review. PMs are appreciated by both me (coco29) and my partner Anubis the god king.