A/N: I do not own any character references by JK Rowling in the Harry Potter series or agree with her comments. This story is a product of my pure imagination.
Your hologram stumbled into my apartment.
Hands in the hair of somebody in darkness named Chloe or Sam or Sophia or Marcus
And I just watched it happen.
As the decade would play us for fools
And you saw my bones out with somebody new.
Who seemed like he would've bullied you in school
And you just watched it happen.
If you want to break my cold, cold heart
Just say, 'I loved you the way that you were.'
If you want to tear my world apart
Just say you've always wondered
~ Chloe or Sam or Sophia or Marcus? by Taylor Swift
a/n: This chapter starts the smut. Just a forewarning if you didn't notice the rating change prior.
*~*~* October 4, 2007 *~*~*
When Hermione got off the plane at Charleston Airport in South Carolina, she looked down at her hand as Harry grabbed it. Together, they started walking towards the baggage claim area. They walked, their fingers intertwined, through the crowds of people coming and going, enjoying that they didn't have to hide.
As they approached the baggage carousel, a familiar voice called out, "Well, well, look who finally made it back to the US of A!"
Josh stood at the carousel with a large grin on his tan face, "About damn time, you two!"
Hermione blushed but didn't let go of Harry's hand as she moved to hug Josh, "How'd you know?"
Josh chuckled, pulling her into a tight hug, "You two have always been close, but it's those shit-eatin' grins that say it all," He said as he stepped back and gave Harry a quick, friendly slap on the back, "Don't screw this up, Potter."
Harry laughed, glancing at Hermione with a look that made her heart skip a beat, "I don't plan on it."
Collecting their bags, they headed out into the warm, humid Southern evening, starkly contrasting with the cool temperatures they had left behind in England.
The drive to Dane and Josh's farm took them out of the city and into the quiet outskirts of Charleston. The sun was slipping lower in the sky, giving the fields a gold glow as they drove past the various crops.
Turning into a gravel driveway, the farmhouse appeared, its weathered exterior unchanging in the last few years.
Josh parked his car, and the front door swung open before they could even step out. Dane had bulked up since they had last seen him. He wore old jeans and a flannel shirt and had a large grin.
"Hermione! Harry! Good to see y'all!" Dane called out as he came over and grabbed Hermione's bag, slinging it over his shoulder, then pulled her into a bear hug, "It's been too long."
Hermione smiled as she hugged him back, "It has. We've missed you both. Our occasional phone conversations were just not enough."
Dane turned to Harry, shaking his hand, "Glad y'all made it safely."
As they walked towards the house, Josh grinned at Dane. "It looks like we don't have to worry about two rooms after all, Dane."
Dane threw his head back and laughed, "Fucking finally! Since when?"
Harry laughed as he glanced at Hermione, "Less than a month ago. You two are the first to know."
"Well, it's about damn time," Dane said, clapping Harry on the back as they reached the front porch. He pushed the door open, and it squeaked as Josh led them inside.
"It's not much," Josh said, "But it's home. Dane is in the field most days, and I'm at work, so it's just us and the animals when we are home."
Hermione took in the warmth of the home, which was simple but full of character. It had an eclectic collection of antiques, mismatched furniture, and family photos.
After being shown their room, they settled in. It was cozy and had a view of the fields. After washing up, they joined Josh and Dane in the kitchen for tea and biscuits. They spent the evening catching up, laughing over Teddy's latest antics, and exchanging job updates. It was like the time between visits was just yesterday.
The jetlag and time change started to affect them both as the evening wore on. After a delicious dinner, Harry and Hermione excused themselves and headed to bed early. Exhausted as she climbed into bed with her hair piled upon her head, Harry pulled her to him, and she kissed him, settling into his embrace. "I'm so glad we came," she said.
Harry gently kissed her forehead, "I'm glad we're doing this together."
"It feels good to be here," Hermione mumbled into his chest.
*~*~* October 6, 2007 *~*~*
A pair of arms wound themselves around Hermione's waist as she stared at her reflection in the mirror on Dane and Josh's wedding day. Placing her hands over his, Hermione turned in his arms and put her arms around his neck, "Well, hello, sir. Fancy seeing you here. Is everything all set up for them?"
Harry pulled her closer and breathed in Hermione's unique scent. "Yeah, God, why do you always smell so good?"
Hermione kissed him, "You haven't smelled me when I'm at my sweatiest yet."
Hermione watched his irises darken and swallowed hard as he captured her lips in his own, making her moan, "Just wait," Harry growled, making Hermione gasp.
Harry groaned, his forehead resting against hers. "How is it that we always keep getting interrupted in some way? First, Teddy interrupted us back at home, and we came here, and we were so exhausted with jet lag. Last night, we were exhausted helping them get everything set up."
Hermione looked up at him, "Tonight. Dane said that they got a hotel in Charleston tonight. We have the house to ourselves."
Harry grinned. "Now, I don't want you to think I'm pressuring you," he said as she kissed him, shutting him up.
Hermione swallowed hard, looking into his eyes, "I cannot wait to fuck you, Harry James."
Harry cupped her cheek, "No, Hermione. I refuse to fuck you." Hermione's face fell, "No, no listen. It will never just be fucking with us when I love you so much."
Hermione's heart raced, "You love me?"
Harry kissed her, "You silly witch, of course, I love you, and I've told you that at least a hundred times."
"But this is different," Hermione cried, sobbing into his chest.
Harry rubbed her back, "Why the tears?"
Hermione wiped her eyes, "Because I love you so much, and I have for so long. Hearing it from you and knowing it means what I think it means… makes me so happy."
Harry smiled as he slowly kissed her, then pulled away when he heard the speakers go on outside, "Fuck… music means it's nearly time for the wedding."
Hermione sniffed. "Go get dressed. I have to fix this mess," she told him, wiping the mascara that had run down her face in the mirror.
Harry grinned, "There is no way that you are anywhere near a mess."
Stepping into the beautifully decorated barn, the rafters were filled with sparkling lights, and waves of wildflowers were arranged everywhere, from the rafters to the wooden tables where everyone would sit that surrounded the dance floor/altar.
They walked inside, hand in hand, as the fresh smells of hay and vanilla candles filled the air. Soft country music serenaded them.
Behind them, they heard a gasp, then a familiar squeal, "Hermione?! Harry?!"
Before they could turn around, Julia nearly knocked over Hermione, her curls bouncing as she ran to them, wrapping Hermione in a tight hug as she turned around.
"Oh my God, it's so good to see you!" Julia said in her familiar southern twang.
Hermione laughed, hugging her back tightly, "Julia! It's been too long!"
When they finally pulled apart, Julia smiled as she looked at them. "I cannot believe it! You two… together at last!" she said, her grin so wide her face had new lines on her cheeks.
Hermione glanced at Harry with a smile, "Is it that we haven't seen you all in years that makes it obvious, or when we get home, is everyone going to know?"
Julia grabbed Hermione's hand and pulled her to sit on a hay bale, saying, "You two are hiding it? Why?"
Dale walked up to them, shaking his head, "Harry," Dale said, holding out his hand.
"Dale," Harry said, shaking his hand, "Good to see you, mate."
"Good to see you too," Dale said.
"Between the press and our friends, everyone has thought we were together for years. We want to see how long it takes for people to realize we are together," Harry informed Julia.
Hermione chuckled as she stood up and took Harry's hand in hers. "We thought it would be fun to keep it to ourselves for a little while," she said.
Julia stood up, smiling, "You two are too much. But honestly, it's about time. Everyone is going to be thrilled. I am thrilled."
Dale nodded as he bumped Harry with his elbow, "Well, if anyone can keep a secret, it's you two. But don't be surprised if the cat is out of the bag sooner than you think."
Julia walked over to the seating table, "Yes! We are at the same table!"
Walking over to their table, they continued to catch up until the wedding started. Dale and Julia had two children: a girl named Amy, and a boy named Daniel. Julia worked at their kids' elementary school, and Dale was a mechanic.
As the music changed, everyone stood. Hermione smoothed her dress, a soft smile on her lips as she looked at Dane walking in with the officiant. Looking at Harry from the corner of her eye, she was surprised to see him looking at her instead of Dane. He smiled at her, making her heart skip a beat.
The ceremony began as Josh went down the aisle with a bouquet of sunflowers that he threw out to people in the audience. Walking over to Julia and Hermione, he quickly gave them both a flower before going to the altar to take Dane's hands.
Everyone sat down as the officiant introduced herself as a friend of the couple and welcomed everyone before beginning the ceremony with words about love and commitment. Hermione felt Harry's hand grab hers and couldn't help but dab the tears in her eyes as she listened to the officiant, feeling her love for Harry nearly overwhelming her.
As Josh and Dane exchanged their vows, Hermione and Harry couldn't tear their eyes away from each other, listening to her words. When the officiant finally said, "You may now kiss," the guests cheered. Caught up in the moment's emotion, Harry didn't think twice. Leaning over, he kissed her, and Hermione couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the feelings they had been fighting for so long.
Julia's snort behind her made Hermione's eyes flutter open as she pulled away, blushing. Catching Harry's gaze, she felt her breath catch in her throat, and as she stared into his eyes, the world around them faded away.
Hermione laughed, "There is no way we can keep this a secret."
Harry grinned, squeezing her hand, "It will be fun while it lasts."
The ceremony immediately turned into the reception, and after Josh and Dane's first dance, Harry pulled Hermione out to the dance floor. Resting her head on his shoulder, she listened to his heartbeat under her ear and enjoyed him holding her close as they swayed on the dance floor together.
Standing outside Dane and Josh's house, Harry and Hermione waved to them as they drove off to spend their wedding night in Charleston. The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the land and the farmhouse behind them.
Harry looked at Hermione, "Want to go upstairs?" Harry asked, his voice low.
Hermione didn't hesitate as she grabbed his hand, "Yes!" She yelled as she pulled him into the house and locked the door behind them.
Hermione gasped as Harry picked her up as if she were weightless. She threw her arms around his neck, and he carried her up the stairs to the guest bedroom, which was theirs until tomorrow. Hermione reached down and opened the bedroom door, and Harry walked them inside. Setting her down, he pulled her close with his hands on her back. Kissing her deeply, their tongues explored each other's mouths.
Moaning, Hermione felt their magic racing through her body and relaxed, dropping her shields. "Do you feel that?" she asked, wrapping her arms around Harry's neck.
"I always feel you," Harry told her, reaching behind her and unzipping her dress.
As it pooled at her feet, revealing her lacy lingerie, Harry looked at her, swallowing hard, "Is that new? When I do laundry, I don't remember seeing that."
Hermione grinned, "I bought it special for today."
Harry looked up, "Thank you, God!" Hermione grinned as his hands ran along her bare skin, leaving fire trails in their wake as he kissed down her neck, then bent down, taking one of her nipples into his mouth through its lacy confinement. Hermione gasped, trembling with pleasure as he sucked and bit it gently.
"Take it off, please! Please take it off," Hermione begged.
Slowly, Harry stared into her eyes as he unfastened her bra with difficulty, making her chuckle, "I haven't exactly done with much. I've only been with Ginny and a couple of muggles. The bond kicked in after being away from Ginny, and I attempted to be with others. Aimee and Teddy's friend's mom and I, well, I couldn't get it up. I said your name with Barbie. Being a muggle, Meredith was the only one my magic didn't repel."
Hermione pulled his face up to hers and kissed him, "I don't care about your past, only our future. I plan to have the rest of your firsts forever."
Harry grinned as he reached down and slipped off her knickers. Picking her up, he walked them to the bed and gently laid her down on it. Slowly, he unbuttoned each button, teasing her to the point where she sat up and reached for his buckle. Quickly unfastening it and his trousers, she dropped them on the door as he kicked off his shoes. Reaching down to slide off his socks, he stood up, Hermione's eyes widening as she saw Harry in all his glory for the first time in years. There had been moments in passing where she had stolen a glance, but not since they were on the run had she seen him completely.
Long gone was the skinny, knobby-kneed boy she had first fallen in love with all those years ago when his eyes met hers behind his taped-together glasses. Replacing him was a muscular, tall presence that only made her heart race more. Right above his heart was his tattoo commemorating their friendship. Standing tall and proud was a much longer penis than Draco had and wider than Ron ever was.
Kneeling on the bed, he grabbed her leg and kissed her ankle. Nipping then kissing to soothe her skin, he slowly climbed up her body. At the juncture of her thigh and hip, instead of continuing the journey north, he put her leg over his shoulder, and before Hermione could say anything, his tongue was on her. Licking and sucking at her clit, she fisted the sheets with a moan.
Harry grinned at her, "Oh, come on, Hermione, I know you have no shortage of words."
"Fucking hell!" Hermione screamed as he plunged one, then a second finger inside her as he did something with his tongue that had her climbing closer and closer to her climax. As she tried to move to get more friction, Harry reached up and put a hand on her belly. Running his thumb over her belly button, Hermione felt herself shatter.
Collapsing back on the bed, trying to catch her breath, Harry continued kissing up her leg to her stomach. Skimming her nipples with his teeth, he leaned over her, kissing her neck, "I planned on only going for a taste… but God, Hermione… you are addicting."
Pulling his hair to move his mouth to hers, she kissed him hard, "If you don't start making love to me right now, I will take control."
Harry grinned as he positioned himself over her, then frowned, "Fuck, what kind of birth control situation do we have?"
Hermione ran her fingers over his temple, pushing a curling piece of hair behind his ear. "Thanks to George, I'm on the longer-lasting potion."
Harry grinned. "And I learned something in America," he said as he grabbed his wand from the bedside table and pointed at his stomach, "Ehkaisy."
"Ecstasy?" Hermione asked, confused.
"Just sounds like it; I guess it was Finnish or something. It is a long-term male birth control spell. You don't have to redo it every time," Harry told her, setting his wand down.
"Really?" Hermione asked, "I wonder-"
"Hey, hey… we can research it more later," Harry said with a laugh as he leaned down, kissed her, and looked deep into her eyes, "Are you sure? This is a big step-"
Wrapping her legs around his waist, Hermione kissed him as she felt Harry against her entrance.
Gently touching her face, he nipped at her lips, "I've dreamt of this moment for so long. I don't think I am going to last long. If I don't, please don't take offense. Every time that you touch me, I feel like I'm going to explode, and finally, being inside you, I might die… in a good way."
"Harry," Hermione grinned, "We've waited long enough. Please."
"Please, what?" Harry asked.
Looking up at him eye to eye, "Make love to me."
Slowly, he pushed forward. Centimeter by centimeter, it was as if fire was spreading through her veins. His forehead met hers when it felt like he could go no farther, "Fucking hell, Hermione. You are so fucking tight; I need to stop for a moment before this is all over."
Hermione couldn't help but shift, causing her walls to clench down on him slightly and for him to hiss. "Oh God," He groaned.
Hermione giggled, making Harry gasp as his eyes snapped open.
"You think this is funny, do you?" Harry asked, trying to fake a glare, "Your vagina is like a goddamn vice on me, and when you laugh, I feel it through my entire body, and even that is turning me on more. I won't even get all the way inside you before I lose it."
Hermione gasped, "What?! You aren't completely inside me?"
Harry laughed, "No, sweetheart, I'm not."
"Fucking hell, there is no way you are going to fit. I already feel so full," Hermione gasped.
Harry nipped at her lip, then slowly thrust, "Oh honey, just you wait."
Gasping, he slowly thrust back and forth, inching a little more every time. Torturously slow. When she thought he could go no further and was fully inside her, he hit a place inside her that neither Ron nor Draco had ever reached, making her toes curl, and Harry groaned. Suddenly, the feeling she had felt for years, her magic flowing under her skin like water slowly flowing under her skin, intensified. Opening her eyes, Harry looked at her in shock. White tendrils of light were flowing like clouds over his skin, and her skin glowed a brilliant sparkling gold in the same way. Her hair moved around her as his eyes glowed a more brilliant than usual emerald. Smiling, Hermione touched his face, "Our magic is happy."
Kissing her hard, Harry began to move. Hermione grabbed his arms, and Harry ran his hands up her arms and laced their hands together above her head. Together, they watched their magic float over their skin, twist, and seemingly play together over their combined hands.
Hermione pulled away, gasping for breath. At her core, she felt like something was being pulled so tight it was about to break. "Harry," Hermione gasped.
"I feel it, too," Harry groaned.
"Why the fuck weren't we doing this before?" Hermione asked.
"Because I was an idiot, who was afraid… fuck… afraid to make a move," Harry groaned.
Hermione felt the band in her chest pull tight as the spasms in her core hit their peak. She went stiff, screaming out Harry's name as she arched her back off the bed. Harry buried himself deep inside her once more as his orgasm crashed into him, and Hermione felt a shift in her magic.
It felt like she had been plunged into a warm bath and pulled out to be wrapped in a warm towel. Then, she was swaddled, hugged, and pulled close.
Hermione felt warmth on her shoulder and opened her eyes to see the room sparkling. The gold and bright white waves had left their bodies and were slowly surrounding them as they seemingly came back, sinking into their skin as if it were being absorbed through their pores. Turning her head, she saw a tear fall from Harry's face to her shoulder. "Hey, what's wrong?"
Harry grabbed her leg and rolled them onto their sides, "I…I've never felt like this before. It just… it feels right? I am so happy that I don't know how to handle it."
Hermione smiled as she kissed him, "Good."
Harry kissed her nose, "God, I love you."
"I love you too," Hermione told him as she ran her fingers through his sweaty hair and moved her hips, causing him to hiss, "Fucking hell, Harry, are you even soft?"
Harry laughed against her neck, "Trust me, this isn't normal. It's just because it's you."
Pushing Harry back onto his back, she straddled his waist. Grinding her hips against his, she felt him growing harder with each movement. Groaning, he grabbed onto her hips.
Putting her hands on his chest, her right hand on his tattoo, she started to ride him. Her hips moved at a steady rhythm. Grabbing the back of her head, he pulled her down for a kiss.
"Harry, you don't have to wait for me," Hermione said as he ran his hands up her stomach.
As one hand massaged her breast, he grinned as the other journeyed to where their bodies connected and flicked at her clit. Playing her like a violin, Hermione quickly neared her second orgasm.
"Holy shit!" Hermione gasped as she climaxed, and she felt him inside her as he climaxed with her.
Gasping for air falling onto her back, Harry slipped out of her as they lay there for a moment, catching their breath, legs still intertwined. Hermione opened her eyes as Harry slid out of bed and entered the loo. Coming back out with a flannel, he sat down next to her. He slid the warm flannel over her neck, down her breasts, stomach, and over her pelvis to the juncture of her thighs, taking care to gently clean the newly sensitive areas of her body that were covered in sweat and other bodily fluids. Throwing it to the floor, he gathered her into his arms and pulled her on his chest.
Hermione sighed, content as she snuggled into his chest.
Under her ear, she heard Harry's chest rumble as he chuckled. Looking up at him, confused, "What?"
Harry pursed his lips, trying not to laugh, "You sounded like a cat."
Hermione gasped, grabbing her pillow and hitting him with it, "I do not!"
Harry laughed, "You so did. You were purring!"
"I was not!" Hermione said as Harry sat up and hit her with his pillow.
Twenty minutes later, they were covered in feathers from the pillows that they had destroyed and fully satisfied yet again as they lay at the foot of the bed. Hermione ran her fingers over a scar on his chest, "What is this from?"
"I don't remember most of the small ones," Harry said, putting his arm under his head as she skimmed the twisted skin along his stomach, "The Sectumsempra. Ironic that Draco's scar is in nearly the same place, and he saved my arse from dying." Hermione ran her fingers over the silver-tinted skin illuminated by the moonlight filtering through the windows. His fingers brushed her arm, running over the puckered, bumpy scar on her elbow, "Where'd you get this one?"
Hermione smiled, "I fell off my bike as a kid. Dad attempted to teach me how to ride, but I preferred to keep my feet on the ground. I tried using my feet as brakes and fell sideways onto a rock. See, it's not just broomsticks."
Harry laughed as his fingers ran over the scar crossing her belly, "I can't believe I nearly lost you that day."
"But you didn't," Hermione told him, moving her leg up to cuddle more into his side and running her fingers over his arm. "What about this one?"
"Duel with a Death Eater in the Woods of Russia. Sent a piece of the tree into my arm," Harry told her, "I was lucky it wasn't worse."
Frowning, he felt a large, jagged scar on her leg, "What is that from?"
"Ice skate to the leg. I had to get 20 stitches. Part of the reason I didn't get to do it anymore is it scared Mum," Hermione told him as he inhaled into her hair, "I don't want to leave this bubble."
Harry closed his eyes and hummed in approval, "I wish we could move back here and live here forever. America doesn't care if I defeated some wizard who was determined to kill me. They don't care if I go to the store to buy food or a necklace for my witch."
Hermione closed her eyes. "Life would be simpler," she yawned. But we would miss a lot of our family, too."
"Mmm yeah, maybe in the future," Harry mumbled as he drifted off.
*~*~* October 9, 2007 *~*~*
Hermione was sitting behind her desk, papers in hand, sorting through the documents and scrolls on her desk that had arrived since she left Thursday to go to America. Despite the hustle and bustle, she couldn't help but glance at the clock to see when the end of the day would be.
Biting her lip, she picked up the interoffice memo paper and wrote, 'I need your input on a case. Can you come to my office?' then sent it off to Harry's desk.
A short time later, a knock sounded on her door, and Harry walked inside.
"Harry," She greeted, standing, "I could use your expertise on this case."
Harry closed the door behind him, ensuring it was locked, "I'm always happy to help," he told her, walking over to her desk as she walked around it.
Hermione smiled. "I just need a little consultation," she stated as she wrapped her arms around his neck. He pulled her in for a quick but tender kiss.
"What kind of consultation do you need?" Harry murmured against her lips.
Hermione sighed as she groaned onto his shoulder, "My coworkers are like bloodhounds. We can't be too obvious."
"Agreed," Harry told her as he pulled out a bag, "I thought you might need a break."
Together, they sat on her couch, the lunch quickly forgotten as their lips met again. Harry's hands tangled in her hair, and she jumped as a knock sounded on her door.
"Damnit," Hermione whispered as she stood up, "Yes?"
"Hermione, why is the door locked?" Opal asked.
Hermione looked in the mirror and quickly fixed her makeup and hair. Then, she tucked her shirt back in quickly, glancing at Harry standing up with a nod. Hermione unlocked the door and let Opal in. "Sorry, Harry and I were discussing a case and didn't want to be interrupted."
Opal looked between them. "Sorry to interrupt, but I have a new case for you to review."
Hermione looked at Harry, "Sorry, we will have to continue this later."
Harry nodded, "I'll see you at home."
*~*~* October 10, 2007 *~*~*
Hermione's foot vibrated under her desk as she bit her lip, looking towards her door. Mentally, she debated venturing out of her office on a mission.
"Fuck it," Hermione stated out loud as she got up and left her office, "Opal, I'm stepping away for a bit to do some research."
"Yes, ma'am," Opal said, not looking up from her project.
Hermione walked briskly past Draco's desk, where Harry was sitting at his old desk talking to Draco. Her eyes met Harry's, and she briefly gave him a look as she continued to the archives.
Entering the archives, she walked through the labyrinth of shelves, finding the section on creatures. When Harry rounded the corner, Hermione was waiting, leaning against the shelves. She grinned as he approached and threw her arms around his neck, pulling him in for a kiss.
Harry sighed against her mouth and nuzzled into her neck. "I think if I could touch you in public, I'd never let you go," he murmured against her skin.
Hermione smiled as she played with the fine hairs at the base of his skull. She kissed him hard, "God, do you know what one of my biggest fantasies has been?" she asked.
Harry grinned, moving her back against the stacks, his body pressed against hers. "I think I can imagine," he replied, his breath warm on her neck. "You, me, against these stacks. You, trying your best not to say a word."
Hermione bit her lip, a playful glint in her eye, "You have one thing wrong," she said, barely above a whisper, "That's why silencing charms are for."
Harry laughed as he stole another kiss, but before he could deepen the kiss, Hermione pulled back.
Licking her lips, she grinned, "I'll see you at home tonight." Hermione said, running her hand down his chest as she slipped from under him.
"Hermione," Harry whined, "Not fair."
Hermione laughed, her laughter echoing through the archives, "I know," she said as she made her way back down the aisle.
*~*~* March 2, 2008 *~*~*
Luna said, "I cannot believe no one knew or suspected."
Hermione smiled, "Sirius was living in the house with us and was in the same room where we were sitting cuddled up on the couch watching tele, and he didn't think anything of it."
*~*~* October 13, 2007 *~*~*
Lying in bed, Hermione yawned and opened her eyes as she saw Harry standing beside her bed, "Harry?" she mumbled, noticing that he was in his Auror robes, "What's wrong?"
Sitting on the edge of the bed, Harry gently kissed her forehead, "I have to go," he explained quietly, "Intel thinks we may have finally found the last of the Death Eaters. Draco and I are going undercover to see if we can infiltrate where he's rumored to be."
Hermione sat up concerned and reached out to pull him into a hug. "Be careful," she whispered. If you can, send me a text telling me that you are okay. That's all I need, O and K. Just whenever you can."
Harry nodded, holding her close. "I'll do my best," he told her, kissing her softly. "Lay back down."
With reluctance, she lay back in bed, and he tucked her in, smoothing the covers around her. He kissed her forehead and lingered against her skin, "Go back to sleep. I love you."
Hermione nodded, "I love you too, Harry."
Harry stood up and turned off her bedside lamp, casting her room in darkness. He stood quietly for a moment, his silhouette against her bedroom door, and then left the room quietly.
Pushing open the front door to the house, Hermione felt the warmth wash over her compared to the cooling night air outside. The familiar music played, and she heard Sirius working with Teddy in the kitchen. The weariness she always felt when Harry was away weighed on her, but she smiled as she put her key in the bowl on the decorative table, kicked her shoes off, and walked into the kitchen.
"Hey guys, I'm home," Hermione said, carrying the bag with their food into the kitchen. She found Teddy and Sirius sitting at the table, working on her homework.
"Hey, Mumma," Teddy greeted, looking up from his work.
"Hi Teddy, Sirius," Hermione said as she set the bag on the counter, "How is the homework coming along?"
Sirius leaned back in his chair, "We're nearly done."
Hermione laughed, shaking her head as she began to unload the food, "That's wonderful to hear."
As she plated their dinner, Sirius stood and walked over to her, "Harry's not coming home tonight?" he asked quietly.
"Nope," Hermione replied. "He's on a mission. He can't communicate anything to us for their safety."
Sirius nudged her gently, "Are you okay?"
Hermione managed to smile, "I'm just tired. Harry woke me up last night to tell me he was leaving, and I never fell back to sleep."
Sirius nodded, "He'll be back soon. You know he's got this."
"I know," Hermione said, "It's just hard not knowing how he's doing."
Sirius gave her a comforting squeeze on her shoulder, "Thanks for getting dinner in the meantime."
*~*~* October 21, 2007 *~*~*
Hermione sat at her desk, staring blankly at the scattered paperwork. Her mind was far from the reporters she was supposed to be reviewing, and instead, she was consumed by Harry and the mission he was on. She had yet to hear even a word from him. Through the glass of her door, she watched Aurors pass by.
Unable to shake her restlessness, she stood up and decided to check on Harry's office, hoping he might be there, perhaps back earlier than expected. Telling Opal that she was taking her break, she made her way through the corridors, her footsteps echoing on the floor as she walked away from the bullpen. Arriving at his door, she paused momentarily before speaking his password, "Prongs," and stepping inside.
The room was dimly lit by the closed blinds and filled with the faint smell of Harry's scent. Glancing around, her heart sank at the emptiness of the room. Walking over to his desk, she sat down behind it and smiled at the pictures of them on her desk and of Teddy—a little clay hand of Teddy's held-down papers. Leaning back, she saw an NYU banner on the wall with a Gryffindor banner with both of his diplomas.
Pushing herself up, she sighed as she walked over to where his cloak hung on a hook and took it off, sniffing it. Walking over to his couch, she sat down, wrapping it around her shoulders. Lying back, she held it close and closed her eyes momentarily, enjoying the peace.
"Miss Granger?"
The voice startled her, and she jerked awake to find Robards standing over her.
"Shit!" Hermione exclaimed, "I'm sorry, sir," She stated, sitting up quickly and trying to smooth her hair, "I came in here for some quiet on my break, and I must have drifted off."
Robards smiled, waving away her apology. "There's no need to apologize. It's been a tense few days."
Hermione rubbed her eyes as she sagged, "I just… I haven't heard anything from him. Not even a text message. I worry."
Robards sighed as he leaned back on Harry's desk, "They're undercover. Polyjuiced as two potential Death Eaters trying to get to whoever is in charge. They're under deep cover and can't send messages because all their belongings are in their hotel room outside town. They are fine. They checked in yesterday using the coded message."
Hermione nodded, "Thank you."
"You're welcome," Robards replied, "Harry's one of the best. He'll be back in one piece."
Robards left Harry's office, and Hermione hung his cloak back up. Glancing back at his desk, she shut the door and walked back down the hallway to her office.
*~*~* March 2, 2008 *~*~*
Hermione sighed, "Now that we had been together. Missing him was even harder. I tried not to open our connection, which had become stronger. I could feel his emotions a bit, and if I tried hard enough, I could feel them from outside the house or a distance away."
"When did he come home?" Luna asked.
"He was back on the 26th of October," Hermione told her as she rubbed her belly.
*~*~* October 26, 2007 *~*~*
Staring at her laptop in front of her as the spacer blinked over the empty page of her document, her phone ringing provided a welcoming distraction.
She glanced at the phone and saw Pansy's name flash. Then she answered, "Hey, Pansy. How are you feeling?"
"Hermione!" Pansy's voice said on the other line with a slight note of panic, "I'm in labour. Can you come to St. Mungo's? I'd really like you to be here with Christopher and me."
Hermione set her laptop on the coffee table, "Of course, Pansy! I'm on my way."
After ending her call, Hermione went to the fireplace, took a pinch of floo powder, and tossed it into the flames. "The Menagerie!"
Sticking her head into the flames, she called out, "Ron! Luna! Anyone home?"
Moments later, Ron appeared in the room, "Hermione? What's up?"
Hermione sat back, "Can Teddy come over for a bit? Pansy is in labour, and she wants me with her at St. Mungo's."
"Of course! Teddy can stay as long as you need. The boys will be thrilled," Ron told her.
Before Hermione could respond, Teddy's excited voice rang out behind her, "I get to go to Uncle Ron's?"
Hermione looked back at him as he ran up the stairs, his footsteps thundering through the house. Hermione laughed, "I think he is excited."
Ron chuckled as he sat down on his end. "Sounds like it. Have you heard anything from Harry?"
Hermione felt her smile falter as she shook her head, "No, not yet. He's still undercover."
Teddy came barreling down the stairs, his bag on his back, "I'm ready!" he declared with a grin.
Hermione looked at Ron, "He is ready if you are."
Ron smiled, "The boys are excited to see him."
Teddy threw his arms around Hermione's middle, "Bye, Mumma! Love you!"
"Love you too, sweetheart," Hermione said as she kissed his head.
Watching as Teddy stepped through the Floo with a whirl of green flames, Ron's face reappeared in the fire, "He's already gone. I can hear the boys yelling. He's found them."
Hermione laughed, "He's great with them. They're like the younger siblings that he'll never have."
"You know you are always welcome here too, Hermione," Ron told her.
"Thanks, Ron. I appreciate it, but I'd better get going," Hermione told him.
"Anytime," Ron said as he ended the connection.
Quickly gathering her things, she slipped a book into her bag and grabbed a jumper in case the hospital was too chilly. Walking to the basement, she opened the door, "Hey, Holly, Harmony, and Swift! I am leaving! Teddy is at Ron and Luna's house."
Swift appeared at the foot of the steps, "Everything okay?"
Hermione nodded, "My friend Pansy is in labour. I'm going to St. Mungo's to be with her."
"Be safe," Swift told her.
"Thanks," Hermione said as she shut the door and returned to the sitting room. Grabbing floo powder, she stepped into the fireplace, "St. Mungo's!"
Emerging moments later, in the receiving area of the bustling hospital. She cleaned the ash off her body and headed towards the lift's maternity ward.
Walking up to the Medi-witch desk, she smiled at her, "I'm here to see Pansy Danes."
"Room 6."
Approaching Pansy's room, she knocked and entered to find Pansy in bed with Christopher holding her hand.
"Hermione," Pansy breathed in relief, seeing her, "Thank you for coming."
"Of course," Hermione said, walking over to the bed, "I wouldn't be anywhere else. How are you doing, Christopher?"
Christopher smiled, "I'm overwhelmed but excited. The difference in this hospital is amazing compared to a normal one."
Hours passed as Hermione and Christopher tried to keep an impatient Pansy calm and collected. The healer came in when Pansy was having contractions even closer together than before and told them it was time. Hermione stepped out into the waiting area, and a short time later, the first cries of a newborn came out of Pansy's room.
Hermione smiled and rubbed her temples as the slight headache she had been feeling ramped up without distractions from inside the room. Christopher popped his head out the door as the healers left, "Aunt Hermione, come say hi."
Hermione entered the room to see Pansy sitting up with a small bundle of pink blankets in her arms, "Oh, Pansy."
"Hi, Aunt Hermione. I'd like you to meet someone," Pansy said, pulling down the blanket. Tiffany Jean Danes, this is your Aunt Hermione. You are partially named after her."
Hermione wiped her tears, "I can't believe you did that."
Christopher smiled, "You helped us out so much, both with me grasping your world and for Pansy to grasp mine. Of course, we had to pay tribute to you."
Hermione wiped her tears. "Well, thank you. I'm going to let you enjoy your time together. If you need anything, you know who to call."
"Thank you, Hermione," Pansy said with a smile. I really didn't deserve this life after my mistakes in school."
"Pansy, we were kids. We hadn't even had a chance to grow up yet. You are a different person because you made that choice," Hermione said with a smile, "Get some rest."
Leaving the maternity floor, Hermione rode the lift down to the main floor, and as it opened, Robards waited to get on.
Robards looked at her, surprised to see her, "Granger, I can't believe they contacted you already."
Hermione frowned, "A friend of mine just had a baby. Wait, is Harry here?!" Hermione asked, panicked.
Robards frowned. "Yes, but nothing major. It was just a little spell reversal after some hexes hit him and some other Aurors," he said, entering the lift. She rode up to the fourth level with him.
Exiting the lift behind him, she saw Draco and a few other Aurors standing around talking. Draco turned and saw her, "Of course you knew. How the hell did you know?"
Hermione glared at him, "Pansy is upstairs. She just had the baby. It's a girl. I just ran into Robards downstairs, and he told me."
Draco looked at her, surprised, "Oh, well, Harry is nearly done. He was just hit by Engorgio Skullus, and it made his skull as big as his ego," Draco said with a smile, "At least he wasn't hit with the Jelly-Brain Jinx like some of the people we arrested."
Hermione bit her lip, "Did you at least get the intel you needed?"
Draco nodded, "We have the last two Death Eaters in custody. Greyback has no known support now. We should be able to find him soon."
The healer walked out of the room closest to him, and Hermione saw it was Alicia, who frowned when she saw Hermione.
Hermione rolled her eyes, "I was already here."
Alicia nodded, "Harry just told us not to call until he was treated. He can go home already."
Harry walked out of the room, put his robe back on, and froze when he saw her. "Damnit, I said not to worry her!"
Hermione glared at him, "I was upstairs with Pansy when I ran into Robards. You were giving me a headache."
Harry frowned, then looked at Alicia, "Am I released?"
Alicia nodded, closing his file. "You are released. No follow-up is needed. Just take it easy for the rest of the day."
Hermione looked at him, "Oh, no problem. I'll make sure he does."
Robards nodded at Harry, "Potter, go home and take tomorrow off. Just send your report in by the morning."
"Yes sir," Harry said as he motioned towards the lift.
Following him to the lift, Hermione stood beside him as the doors closed, "You know I worry about you."
"I know," Harry said as he squeezed her hand, "I just didn't want you to drop everything and come rushing here. I know you, and you probably haven't been sleeping well worrying."
Hermione sighed, "Too late for that now. You can't stop me from worrying, Harry."
Harry gave her a small smile, which made her heart flutter. "I know, and I appreciate it. I promise it wasn't that bad."
Leading her off the lift, Hermione sighed, "I know it was a little painful, though."
Harry frowned, "You felt it?"
Hermione nodded, "Just a light headache."
Stepping across the floo, Hermione made Harry sit on the couch as she made him tea and something to eat. Even going as far as getting a blanket and covering him up.
"Come here," Harry said, grabbing her hand and pulling her beside him.
Hermione curled up into his side, and Harry wrapped an arm around her. Hermione felt all the tension leave her body.
"I'll take it easy," Harry told her softly, playing with her curls, "But only if you promise to do the same.
Hermione nestled closer to him.
*~*~* October 27, 2007 *~*~*
Arriving at Crave's entrance, the dim neon lights from the club gave an eerie glow to the cobblestones of the alley, creating a perfect atmosphere for the Halloween party inside. The heavy bass, thumping music echoed from inside as the door opened, letting people inside.
Hermione walked over to the bouncer and handed him their tickets to the limited event inside. He opened the door and let them inside.
Walking inside, Hermione adjusted the neckline of her costume. She came as Morgana and wore a dark green velvet dress with gold embroidery that hugged her curves as the dress touched the floor. Adjusting her gold tiara, she nearly knocked the fake dragon perched on her shoulder off if Harry hadn't caught it.
"Thanks," Hermione said as she looked at him.
He was wearing a black suit and cape. Barely visible were his transfigured fangs behind his lips. A simple costume, but one that suited him with his dark, slicked-back hair,
The pulsing lights illuminated the room as witches and wizards danced on the dance floor in various costumes.
The owners had decorated the inside with cobwebs and enchanted spiders that moved across the ceiling. Skeletons danced against the walls, and candles floated above everyone's heads.
Harry grabbed her hand, "There they are," Harry said, pointing to the VIP platform nearest to the bar.
Squeezing his hand, they made their way over to their friends. As they approached them, Ron spotted them first, dressed as a quidditch player, "There they are! Damn Hermione, are you Morgana?"
Hermione laughed, "I'm guessing I pulled the look off well?"
Luna, dressed as a nymph, had flowers woven into her hair. "Hermione, your costume is rather fitting, and Harry, you look like a rather dashing vampire. Though I would have thought Hermione may have come as a vampress."
Hermione exchanged a look with Harry, "Maybe next year."
While waiting for the rest of their friends, they all decided to hit the dance floor. Hermione stuck to Harry's side, making sure to keep things friendly and casual, with no public displays of affection to give them away to the larger populous. The club grew busier as the night wore on, and more people came in.
As they went to the VIP booth to enjoy their drinks, Ron leaned over to them and said, "You two seem pretty close tonight."
Harry shrugged, sipping his drink, "We're always close."
Ron nodded, "Yeah, I guess you are right."
As the party started to wind down and people started heading home, Harry took Hermione's hand as they walked out into the chilly outside air. "I don't think anyone suspected anything," Harry said, leaning into her.
Hermione grinned, "I think Ron suspected something a bit."
Harry nodded as they waited their turn for the apparition zone, "He'll be the first to figure it out."
Hermione frowned, "I would have thought it would have been Sirius, but he's rarely home."
Harry looked thoughtful, "I think he found a girlfriend. He is always gone; when he comes home, he sometimes smells like perfume."
Hermione smiled, "That's a good thing if he has found someone, though."
As their turn to apparate came, Harry pulled her into his arms, and they landed in their backyard. "See. No lights," Harry said, pointing towards Sirius' side of the house, "He's not home."
"Or he is in bed," Hermione stated.
Harry scoffed, "Sirius in bed this early? Yeah, right."
Hermione grabbed his cloak. "Well, that means we have the house to ourselves, Mr. Potter."
The next thing Harry knew, she pulled him up the stairs by his cape and went to her bedroom.
"You look amazing tonight if I haven't told you," Harry told her.
"Maybe you should have told me that more often before," Hermione smirks as Harry pulled her closer and she wraps her arms around his neck.
Harry leaned down and kissed her. She tugged on his shirt and pulled him to her bed.
Flopping on the bed, Hermione looked up at him, "Oh, I am under the sexy vampire's hold."
Harry growled, hooking his hands under her arms and pulling her up the bed. Covering her body with his own, he kissed her hard. His fangs nipped at her bottom lip.
"I won't bite you," Harry whispered, his breath hot on her skin, "But I'll get close enough."
Hermione moaned as his kisses trailed down her neck, his fangs scraping against her skin as he kissed the sensitive area at the base of her neck where it met her shoulder. Her hips sprang up on their own accord as he grazed it with his teeth pressing against his hardness, "Yes!" Hermione gasped, digging into his shoulders as he sucked on her neck, fangs grazing her skin, "Right there."
Harry continued to tease her, making her writhe beneath him, begging for more.
"Please! I need you," Hermione gasped.
Harry slowly undressed her, "How did I get so lucky? You are so beautiful."
*~*~* October 28, 2007 *~*~*
"Right over here, madam."
"Thank you," Hermione said, handing her coat off to the waiter with a smile and smoothing her dress before joining Luna and Ginny at their table.
As soon as Hermione sat down, Ginny's eyes widened in shock, "You bitch," she gasped quietly, leaning across the table.
Hermione blinked in confusion, reaching for her menu, "What? What did I do?" she asked, scanning the options.
Luna sipped her wine and grinned over her glass, "You have a hickey, Hermione."
Hermione instinctively reached for her neck, where she knew the mark must be. Picking up a spoon from the table, she attempted to catch her reflection on its surface, "Shit," She muttered under her breath, "The glamour wore off."
Ginny leaned in closer. "Who was it?" she whispered. "Did you finally get some?"
Hermione hissed at her to be quiet just as the waiter approached to take their orders. Ginny gave a grin until the waiter left. As soon as he was out of earshot, Ginny leaned in again, unable to resist, "So, did you meet him at Crave?"
Hermione groaned, sinking back in her chair. "Ginny, just leave it," she said, trying to dismiss the conversation.
Ginny pouted, "You are so crabby. You didn't get any. Poor girl, got your neck sucked like a vampire attacked you and didn't even get any sex out of it."
Hermione rolled her eyes and glanced at Luna, hoping for some support. Luna stared at her with that same dreamy expression, "What?"
Luna shrugged, "I'm just happy if you're happy."
Hermione chuckled, "I'm more annoyed right now."
Ginny grinned, snagging a breadstick from the basket on the table, "I'm just happy you are POSSIBLY getting some action again. It's about time."
Hermione sighed, "It's not what you think, Ginny, but thanks for the concern… I guess."
"Come on, Hermione. You can't just show up with a hickey and expect us not to be curious," Ginny told her.
Luna nodded, "We're your friends. We want to make sure you are okay."
"I'm fine," she assured them. I'm just… navigating some things right now."
"Alright, we'll drop it until you are ready, but if this mystery man becomes a regular thing, I expect updates," Ginny told her.
*~*~* October 30, 2007 *~*~*
Hermione looked up as Harry stepped into her office, closing the door behind him with a soft click, "Hey! Any updates on Greyback?"
Harry shook his head, sitting across from her, "Unfortunately, no. He's still at large. We've had a few leads, but nothing solid enough to act on."
Hermione frowned, "Well, that's frustrating. He's too dangerous to be out there this close to the full moon."
"At least he didn't do anything at the full moon," Harry stated as there was a knock on the door, and Opal entered the room.
"Miss Granger?" she asked, uneasy.
"What's wrong, Opal?" Hermione asked
Opal shook her head, "Nothing; I just have some documents for you to review and sign."
Handing Hermione the folder, she briefly looked at Harry. Hermione took the folder, "Thank you, Opal."
Opal nodded and quietly left the room, shutting the door behind her. Hermione sighed, "We need to be more professional at work. I think Opal is getting suspicious."
Harry leaned back in his chair, "What do you want to do about it?"
Hermione chewed on her lip, "We still have lunch on Tuesdays in the canteen and Thursdays with Ron, but no more closed-door meetings. At least for now."
Harry nodded in agreement, "We can do that."
Hermione pouted slightly, "Should we just announce it to everyone? It will be easier than sneaking around."
Harry sighed, "I've thought about it, but then Rita will start following us around again, turning every move into a headline. Maybe we can give it another month or so. By that time, Greyback will hopefully be captured. If no one notices, we'll tell people we're close to. They have to figure it out eventually, right?"
Hermione rolled her eyes, "You'd think."
Glancing at the door, Harry stood up, "One last kiss?"
Hermione leaned forward, pressing a quick kiss on his lips. "See you at home."
*~*~* October 31, 2007 *~*~*
Hermione paced back and forth in her office, unable to focus on anything but the raid Harry coordinated in Knockturn Alley. The intel had been clear: Greyback was hiding out, likely protected by Borgin and his cronies. The raid was straightforward, but the anxiety gnawed at her as the hours passed, and she hadn't heard a word from Harry or anyone else.
Finally, she pulled out her phone and started typing a message, her fingers trembling slightly.
Hermione: Harry! Harry, you answer me! I want to know that you are okay.
As she waited for a reply, seconds felt like hours. When her phone buzzed, she quickly opened the message.
Harry: At the raid, what's wrong?
Hermione frowned as she typed out.
Hermione: I heard an auror say you volunteered to go in for the raid.
Harry: I'm Head Auror, that's my job.
Hermione: Not when Greyback has YOUR scent and reasons for going after you.
Harry: I'm not abandoning my team
Hermione pulled her shirt up with a wicked grin, snapped a picture of her bra, and sent it to him.
Hermione: The sooner you come home, the sooner you will undress this.
Grinning, she set her phone aside. Refocusing on her work, the Aurors eventually returned to the office and said there was no luck. Greyback wasn't there.
As the end of the day finally rolled around. Hermione gathered her things and prepared to leave the office. As she grabbed her coat, a hand suddenly grabbed her arm, startling her. Before she could react, she was suddenly in her bedroom, tossed onto her bed.
Her breath caught in her throat as she looked wide-eyed to see Harry removing his invisibility cloak.
"Any luck with Greyback?" Hermione asked breathlessly.
Harry shook his head, "No, the damn wolf got away again. Long before you started fucking texting me and getting me frustrated in front of my team," He growled as he leaned down and captured her lips in a bruising kiss.
Hermione's heart pounded in her chest as she kissed him back, feeling the tension in his body. When he pulled back, his eyes were dark with desire, "Can you feel how my body is reacting to you? It's been that way since that damn picture you sent me. I think you need to be punished for interrupting my work."
Hermione couldn't help but grin, "Who knew you were hiding a dirty mind, Mr. Potter?"
Harry didn't bother with a reply. Instead, he roughly grabbed the front of her blouse, ripping it open, buttons flying to reveal the bra that she had teased him with earlier.
"I've dreamt of this," he said, his voice rough, "but this is much better."
He quickly undressed himself, and Hermione bit her lip as she watched him. When he was finally bare, she smirked at him, "Come on, don't just undress me with your eyes."
Harry's eyes swept over her before he moved forward, "Getting you naked is just the first part of my plan for the night."
Hermione giggled, but her laughter quickly turned into a moan as Harry climbed onto the bed with her, his mouth finding a sensitive spot on her neck. Feeling his lips on her skin sent shivers down her spine. She knew whatever Harry had planned, that it would be a night she wouldn't forget.
*~*~* November 1, 2007 *~*~*
Opening her eyes, Hermione rolled over and hit a warm body next to her. Smiling, she snuggled into Harry's bare chest and kissed his tattoo. Glancing at her alarm clock, Hermione swore, "Harry! Harry! Get up! It's 7!"
Harry's eyes snapped open, "Shit! I forgot to set an alarm!" Harry jumped up, grabbing his boxers, giving her a quick kiss; he grabbed his invisibility cloak from earlier off the floor, and then her bedroom door opened and closed behind him.
Hermione groaned as she laid back. Running her hand over her face, she got up to prepare for the day. Walking downstairs, she glanced into Teddy's room to see he was already up. Walking into the lavatory, she locked the door behind her. After peeing, she opened the medicine cabinet. Grabbing her monthly potion bottle, she opened it up and went to pour out the potion to take it but realized it was empty, "Are you fucking kidding me?"
Opening the cabinet under the sink, she threw the bottle into the trash, making a note to stop at W3s today to get her new bottle.
Heading downstairs, she found Teddy and Sirius in the kitchen, where Sirius was making sausage and eggs. "Morning."
"Morning," Hermione said as she kissed Teddy's head, "Is Harry up?"
Sirius grinned at her, "I don't know, is he?"
Hermione groaned as Harry came into the kitchen.
"Good morning, everyone. Sorry, I overslept," Harry said as he ruffled Teddy's hair.
Sirius grinned. "Oh, was it a long night? Did you get any sleep at all?" Sirius asked as Harry went to take a bite of his toast. "Maybe forgot some silencing charms?"
Harry choked on his toast as he looked at Sirius and then Hermione, who groaned.
"Oh, we are going to talk after I take Teddy to school," Sirius said, laughing. "Come on, Ted."
Teddy hugged Hermione and Harry. "I love you! Have a good day at school," Hermione told him.
"I will, Mumma! Be careful, Dadda," Teddy told Harry.
"Always, Teddy," Harry said as they left, and he looked at Hermione, "Okay, that is on me."
Hermione laughed, "Oh, thank god, we don't have to hide at home anymore!"
"Well, we still have Teddy," Harry told her.
"Shit, well… we are honestly just doing the same thing as we always were, just behind closed doors, it's more," Hermione told him with a grin.
Harry pulled her to him, "So much more," he said as he kissed her.
"So, when did this finally happen?" Sirius asked, making them jump.
Hermione gasped, "Did you just shove Teddy through the floo?"
"Basically, hey, now focus. When did this start?" Sirius asked excitedly.
Hermione laughed, "Remember that blind date I went on?"
Sirius frowned, "Yes?"
Harry raised his hand, "I went too."
Sirius laughed, "You two found each other without knowing it was each other?"
"Well, I knew it was her," Harry said, picking her hand up, "Look, permanent stains."
"You knew… okay, all I will say is about damn time," Sirius said, hugging them, "I'm so happy for you two. No more fighting that damn bond must be so freeing."
Harry smiled at Hermione, "I honestly don't know why we waited so long."
"I'm leaving. Go to work late, enjoy your morning. You are already running late," Sirius told them with a grin.
Hermione looked at Harry as Sirius hurried off, "Did he just tell us to skive off work to have sex?"
"Yep, I think it's a good idea," Harry told her.
"As much as I would love to, I can't get to work too late, and I need to take a bath," Hermione told him.
Harry pulled her close, "I'll wash your back."
Hermione moaned as he kissed her, "We have 30 minutes tops."
Harry grabbed her hand and raced her upstairs, Hermione laughing the entire way.
Stripping, Hermione started the water as Harry stood at the sink, shaving and brushing his teeth. Stepping into the water, Hermione took her loofa out and started scrubbing her body clean, watching Harry as he brushed his teeth.
After three minutes, Hermione grinned at him, "Honey, I think your teeth are clean. You've been brushing your teeth for at least three minutes."
Harry turned around and spit into the sink, rinsing his mouth out as he watched her scrub down the front of her body, "Fuck it," Harry said as he took his shirt off and pushed his boxers down, then climbed into the bathtub with her.
Hermione threw the loofa at him, and he caught it, "I was wondering what you were waiting for."
Harry motioned for her to come over, and Hermione carefully moved so that her back was against his front. Grabbing her shampoo, Hermione grabbed his cup to wet her hair as Harry massaged it into her scalp.
"Lean forward," he told her gently, taking the cup from her and rinsing the shampoo from her hair.
Pressing kisses softly on the curve of her back, Hermione sat back against his chest. Harry moved on, kissing her neck and shoulders, lighting fire to her skin with his fingertips as they trailed over it. She leaned her head against his shoulder and opened her legs. "I had a very nice dream that started like this."
Harry's hand slid down her belly to the curve of her pelvis, "Does it start like this?" he asked as he started rubbing circles on her clit.
Hermione inhaled, "No, but that's pretty good too," Hermione gasped as his other hand came up to play with one of her nipples, "You are so amazing. Please never stop."
Harry nipped at her earlobe, "Can you be good for me?" He asked, one of his fingers barely slid into her.
Hermione moaned, "Stop teasing me and do it!"
"Be patient," Harry said, and Hermione could tell he was grinning.
Turning in his lap as his fingers slipped out of her. Grabbing him, causing him to gasp, she guided him inside her and sunk on him.
"Fuck, Hermione!" Harry gasped, "Shit."
Hermione kissed him, "You were taking too long."
Harry groaned as she moved over him, and he grabbed her hips, "Why haven't we done this position before? Because fuck, your breasts are gorgeous like this."
Hermione laughed, causing Harry to moan.
"Fuck I felt your laugh," Harry told her as he rubbed her clit.
"I'm nearly there," Hermione told him.
"Same," Harry told her as he kissed her and silenced her scream as she hit her orgasm and followed right after her as she clenched down on him.
Trying to catch her breath, Hermione wilted onto Harry and laughed, causing Harry to groan again. "I'm dirty again."
Stepping out of the floo together, realizing they were so late for the department meeting that they both had forgotten about, they didn't have time to care who saw them as the meeting had started ten minutes prior. Rushing to the lift, Hermione handed Harry her briefcase as she threw her hair up into a bun. Handing her purse back to her, Harry pushed his glasses up on his face as he hadn't had time to put his contacts in when they realized the time.
They both stepped off the second floor. Harry threw his cloak in his office as they walked past it, and Hermione opened her door, throwing her briefcase and closing it as they headed back to the conference room, where everyone was already.
Hermione took a moment to catch her breath. She opened the door, and Harry came in after her. Hermione found a seat at the table as quietly as possible, and Harry went to the other side of the table to stand against the wall.
"Potter, Granger, thank you for joining us," Robards said.
"Sorry, sir. We had issues getting our godson to school today," Hermione told him, cursing herself for not grabbing parchment and a writing utensil.
Draco, who was sitting next to her, slid her a pen and paper, and she glanced up at him, "Thanks."
Seeing the note at the top of the parchment, she gasped quietly, pulling down her shirt.
Your shirt is unbuttoned, third from the top. You can see your lace. Potter got lucky, I assume.
Ripping the paper off the top, Hermione balled it up and tried to pay attention to Robards. Thankfully, the meeting ended soon after, and Hermione hissed at Draco to stay as she glanced at Harry. After everyone left the room, Hermione wandlessly made the door shut, "How do you know about me and Harry?"
Draco laughed, looking between them, "I wasn't sure, but now you've confirmed it. So, thank you for that. You two haven't been discreet about your feelings. So, congrats. About damn time."
Hermione turned towards Harry and rebuttoned her shirt.
Harry sighed, "Look, we are trying to keep it quiet, especially with Greyback on the loose."
Draco nodded, "I get it. Congratulations, I don't know what took the two of you so long in the first place."
*~*~* March 2, 2008 *~*~*
Hermione looked at Luna, "Little did I know that the baby was conceived that day or the night before, one of the two. It turns out that, unlike muggle birth control, the birth control potion loses its effectiveness closer to the end of the month you get. So, when I lapsed a day, then did not take anything because it ran out in my system. Harry's spell that he learned for longer lasting male birth control, when he was at St. Mungo's they cleared his body of all traces of magic, even the birth control spell." Running her hand over her belly, she smiled, "And we… well, just say it could have happened multiple times the night before. After work that night, I stopped at George and Ron's shop and got a new dose, then forgot to take it for a month after putting it in the cabinet by pure habit. It prevents conception, not when conception has already happened. So, the baby is okay, and I thought I couldn't get pregnant. The one night, one single night that we had unprotected sex, and I got pregnant. Harry recast the spell for the month, so we were protected after that."
Luna just laughed.
a/n: We are near to the prologue. I have outlined the rest of the story. As long as the muses don't get away from me, as they tend to do, this story will end at chapter 50. I'm currently writing chapter 44, so more than likely, the story will go past 50 if I'm honest lol
Thank you to the new followers: MM01, OtterDragon, Digital Penman, Mikki88, Slashxii, gidae2016, Lord Airios, RAD092515, and Jamie Hobson.
Please remember to review. It is a way that a writer knows how you like the story.
Also, heads up, I've put it on my update schedule on my Tumblr (https/siriuslyprincesssarah) there will be no chapter on October 19th. Our school is doing a safe trick-or-treat day for our students and families, so I won't be posting that day.
Preview of next week's chapter Timeless (2007)
Sitting at a small table outside Florean Fortescue's, Teddy licked his spoon as he kicked his legs. Looking at Hermione, "Are you and Dadda together like a real Mumma and Dadda are?"
Hermione nearly choked on her ice cream, swallowing hard as she tried to compose herself, "Why do you say that?"
Teddy looked thoughtful for a moment, "I saw you two kissin' in the kitchen when you thought I was in bed. Why are you hiding your kissin'?" Teddy asked.
Hermione smiled, reaching out to ruffle his hair, "It's kissing, and we aren't hiding it, sweetheart. With that werewolf that Dadda is still looking for, he wants to keep us safe. For years, everyone thought we were already together, so we're seeing who notices now. We've been together since my birthday, and only Grandpa Sirius, Draco, and now you have really said anything."
Teddy nodded, "You can kiss and stuff, but not a lot in front of me cause hearing it is gross."
Hermione laughed, "Good to know, but don't tell anyone for right now, okay? We don't want it in the newspaper."
Teddy tilted his head and looked at her, confused. "Why would it be in the newspaper? It's not like you're famous or anything like Aunt Ginny."