A/N: I do not own any character references by JK Rowling in the Harry Potter series. This story is a product of my pure imagination.

Is it insensitive for me to say
Get your shit together?
So I can love you
Is it really your anxiety
That stops you from giving me everything?
Or do you just not want to?

~ Renegade by Big Red Machine and Taylor Swift


*~*~* November 14, 1998 *~*~*

Hermione sat down at the Gryffindor table in the Great Hall on the morning of Gryffindor versus Slytherin's first game. Putting fruit on top of her porridge, she glanced over at Ginny sitting with some of the boys from the Quidditch team, "Good luck today, Ginny."

Ginny glanced down at her, "Thanks Hermione, seen Harry this morning?"

"He was in the shower when I came down," Hermione told her.

She nodded and went back to her conversation with Jimmy Peakes.

Hermione opened her Transfiguration textbook as she ate her porridge. Flipping to her next chapter, Harry sat down next to her causing her to jump.

"Sorry, did I scare you?" Harry asked.

"I didn't hear you come in the Great Hall. Usually, there are increased murmurings," Hermione told him as she shut her book.

Harry looked down at the table and caught Ginny's eye. She winked and blew him a kiss.

"So ready for the big game today?" Hermione asked.

"Haven't seen any of the Slytherin practices to size up their new team, so I'm casually optimistic," Harry said making his plate.

Ginny got up and came to sit in front of them, "Hey Harry, ready for today?"

Harry grinned, "As ready as I'll ever be. It's the first match of the season. Just the normal excitement."

Ginny leaned in with a playful smile, "If you catch the Snitch, I might have to give you a special reward."

Harry chuckled and looked at Hermione, who reopened her book.

"Might not want to distract him with those thoughts, Ginny," Hermione told her as she found her spot in the book.

"Just providing a little extra motivation. See you at the pitch," Ginny said as she blew him a kiss then walked towards the doors to the Great Hall.

Harry bit his lip then looked at Hermione, "She is something else, isn't she?"

"That's something you can call it. Do not forget you have a game to win, even if Ginny is there. Slytherin will never make it easy for you guys," Hermione said as she closed her book again.

Harry nodded as he bit another sausage, "Are you coming to watch?"

"Of course, I wouldn't miss it for the world. Just catch the snitch first," Hermione grinned.

Harry got up, "I'll make sure to catch the snitch before you do."

Hermione laughed, "You do that. Good luck."


Hermione gasped as another Bludger got too close to Harry for her liking.

"So what book did you bring with you?" Luna asked Hermione as she adjusted her old lion head hat.

"What?" Hermione asked tearing her eyes away from Harry.

"You always bring a book, what book did you bring?" Luna asked her.

"I… um… Transfiguration," Hermione said as Harry flipped upside down in a barrel roll to avoid another bludger.

Ritchie Coots hit the bludger toward the seeker of the Slytherin team giving Demelza Robbins time to dodge and weave to score putting Gryffindor up by 50.

Looking up higher in the air, Harry was flying around dodging and weaving through the players, making riskier moves than usual. Ginny was flying close enough to Hermione as Harry flew past, "Show them how it's done, Harry!"

Hermione huffed, "He's going to get hurt."

Luna smiled, "It's Harry. He's done worse."

Harry sped by again and suddenly was flying upside down for a moment causing Hermione to gasp as she stood up. His shirt slid up, showing that Harry suddenly had abs that were flexing as he maintained control as he reached for the snitch that was hovering three rows back from where she was sitting. It took off as he flipped back up and shot off with the Slytherin seeker following him.

"Breathe Hermione, don't worry, if he fell off we could have easily caught him," Luna commented.

Callidora Bhagat laughed, "Don't be stupid, Lovegood. Granger, you are drooling! Magnificent sight, isn't he?"

"The way he flies is like a dance," Luna said with her familiar dreamy expression.

Hermione felt her cheeks flush as she tore her eyes away from Harry, "He always has been a natural flyer. His godfather told us that he had been flying since he was one…oh!" Hermione yelled as she jumped back up and Harry dived towards the bottom of the pitch.

Shoulder to shoulder, Harry and the Slytherin seeker bumped and banged into each other as they raced to the snitch that was racing away from them. Harry flattened himself against his broom as the whole atmosphere of the pitch roared with excitement. Gryffindor took advantage of the distraction as Ginny scored another goal.

Finally, Harry inched forward three yards ahead and his hand closed around the snitch. Hermione and Luna yelled cheering as Ginny flew over and nearly knocked Harry from his broom as she tackled him midair kissing him.

Hermione swallowed hard as her heart skipped a beat in her chest.

Luna glanced over at her, "Missing Ron?"

"Yeah, missing Ron," Hermione said as Harry and Ginny made it to the ground and Harry lifted Ginny in celebration.


*~*~* November 23, 1998 *~*~*

Hermione sat down in Transfiguration looking around hoping that Harry had just decided to skip breakfast today.

"Hermione! Where is Harry?" Ginny asked from her desk that she shared with one of her roommates.

"I don't know, I was hoping you would. He was not in the Great Hall for breakfast earlier but I went to the library. I figured he came late," Hermione told her as Professor McGonagall entered.

The doors opened again just as she made it to the front of the class.

"Mr. Potter, a bit tardy today, aren't we?" McGonagall said sternly, "I hope you have a good reason for disrupting the start of class."

"Sorry, Professor. I overslept after helping Professor Flitwick with nightly rounds last night. Won't happen again," Harry said as he sat down next to Hermione and she shot him a disapproving look, "Don't look at me like that. I forgot to set my wand alarm. Oh fuck."

Hermione hissed, "Honestly Harry, you need to set more than one alarm after late rounds."

"No, I forgot my wand in the rush. How can I forget my wand?" Harry whispered as he ran his hand over his face.

"Now for today, we will be transfiguring a tortoise into a trumpet. This is a very complex transfiguration, as the shell and the spine prove difficult to twist into the shape of the trumpet, as well as changing the appearance of color. Mr. Potter, since you seem so eager to be with us this morning, how about you show us how to do the spell," McGonagall stated.

"Shit," Harry mumbled under his breath as he glanced desperately at Hermione as McGonagall went to get a tortoise for him.

"Be careful," Hermione said handing hers to him.

Harry took a breath as McGonagall set the tortoise in front of him.

"Remember the wand movement," McGonagall told him.

Hermione heard Harry swallow hard, then with a flick up and a loop, a pretty flawless trumpet that was an aged-looking brass coloring was in front of him.

McGonagall looked at him surprised, clearly expecting his trumpet not to look as well as it did, "Well Mr. Potter, let this be a reminder to be punctual, and may I suggest you bring your wand next time. Miss Granger may not always be here to save the day."

Harry blushed as he handed Hermione back her wand.

Working together through the rest of the lesson, Harry hurried off as soon as the bell rang to go to Quidditch practice. Packing up her stuff, Hermione was about to turn to go back to the Gryffindor common room with McGonagall saying her name.

"Yes Ma'am?" Hermione asked turning and walking back up to her at the front of the room.

"I was honestly a bit surprised to see how well Mr. Potter used your wand. Do you have the same makeup, if I may ask?" McGonagall asked.

"Mine is a vine and dragon heartstring. Harry has a holly and phoenix feather core. Dumbledore told him it was Fawkes' feather from my understanding," Hermione told her.

McGonagall stood for a moment, "Have you previously tried using each other's wands?"

"He knew it would work because when we were on the run looking for… the objects, Harry's wand broke and we had to share mine," Hermione told her, "We had no issues and we were able to hide and defend ourselves. Is this unusual?"

McGonagall's lips pursed then she sighed, "It can be. That is why I was surprised. Sometimes switching wands can have disastrous consequences. Just be careful."

"Thank you, Professor. Anything else you need me for?" Hermione asked.

"No, you are dismissed," McGonagall told her as Hermione hurried out of the classroom back to the library.


*~*~* November 28, 1998 *~*~*

The crisp air of the late November day, made Hermione pull her scarf closer to her as she and Harry walked up the familiar path to Hogsmeade.

"You cold?" Harry asked her as he put his arm around her.

"The weather is just starting to turn fast," Hermione told him shivering, "I could put a warming charm over myself."

"Is Ron coming?" Harry asked.

"No, he said he couldn't make it today. Couldn't get out of work, some training he has to spend the weekend at," Hermione shrugged.

Hermione smiled as they made it into Hogsmeade and the smell of baked goods, warm food, and Butterbeer permeated the air, "We don't need him to have fun, do we?"

"No, don't tell Ron this, but I've enjoyed this year so far, just us that is. Not that I don't miss Ron, but it's been nice just us in the common room hanging out," Harry said with a smile.

As they approached the Three Broomsticks, Draco Malfoy, Theodore Nott, and Blaise Zabini came out of the shadows between the Three Broomsticks and the building next door and a smirk came over Draco's face.

"Well if it isn't the boy that conquered or whatever they are calling you now and the, what is it they call you? The brightest witch of her age?" Draco sneered his voice dripping with disdain, "Where is your Weasel girlfriend? Serving detention for the fight with the Slytherin seeker I'd assume?"

Harry shot him a glance and pulled Hermione towards the Three Broomsticks to ignore him.

"Enjoying your little stroll scarhead and the mudblood, while your boyfriend is off looking for the last of the Death Eaters?" Draco asked, "You should be grateful I'm not a full-time student. I'd be at the top of the class without the professors having to tolerate your filthy presence!"

"Harry don't!" Hermione hissed as Harry let go of her.

"Watch your mouth, Malfoy," Harry warned.

Draco laughed, "What's the matter, Potter? Can't handle the truth? Maybe if you took up my offer originally, you would understand how real magic works. How she can use enough magic to-"

"Harry no!" Hermione yelled as Harry swung at Draco connecting with his nose.

Blood poured down Draco's face as he stumbled backward clutching his nose in pain, "Stay away from her and don't let that foul word grace your mouth again, and you can forget about running to Daddy this time. Last I heard, Lucius is in Azkaban for ten years where he belongs!"

Hermione pulled Harry away, "Harry you shouldn't have done that! You are the head boy and should be setting an example!"

"No one insults you. Just because he and his mother redeemed themselves in the final battle, don't give him the right to mouth off because of his friends about you out of pure jealousy! You are better than he is by far!" Harry spouted off.

"Come on, let's go to Hogs Head instead. I was going to call Mum and Dad today," Hermione said taking his hand, "And you need to calm down."

Harry groaned after they walked away from the main part of town, "McGonagall is going to be pissed."

"Yes, she will. How is your hand?" Hermione asked.

"Potter!"

"Oh shit," Harry said as he turned around to see McGonagall standing with a blood-covered Malfoy.

"Detention Potter, Monday in my office. I am disappointed in you," McGonagall told him.

"Told you," Hermione said as they walked the remaining way to Hogs Head.


*~*~* December 11, 1998 *~*~*

"Now class, we are nearing Christmas break, we will be preparing for our biggest project of the year," Professor Ruby Noel, the Life Studies professor informed them as they all sat around on the couches in their Life Studies classroom.

Hermione flipped through the textbook trying to figure out details about their project before the professor could tell them about it.

Grabbing a stack of parchment, the professor walked over to the first couch, "I am handing out these forms for you to give permission to do said project. This is a project that was done hundreds of years ago in the past, but after talking to Professor McGonagall we found that it was impertinent to do this assignment again," Professor Noel said handing out the forms to each of them, "You can choose not to do this assignment, but it is a large part of your grade. There would be a large research project to be done in place of this project if you choose not to complete it."

"The Child Rearing Project?" A 7th-year Hufflepuff said confused.

"Yes, what we will be doing is casting a spell to replicate a pregnancy. We have the perfect amount of males to females if everyone chooses to do the assignment. Now ladies, no worries, there will be no actual pregnancy or intercourse to get a pregnancy. Instead, we will be casting a spell to simulate said pregnancy over three weeks," Professor Noel informed them, "The same spell that was cast many years ago, so that the wealthy did not have to carry their pregnancies and a surrogate could do it instead."

Hermione raised her hand, "Will there be an actual birth?"

"No, great question. We will do a labor spell to replicate the feeling you would experience, but you will not have to give birth. Instead, we will use an old spell from long ago using hairs from each partner to create a house elf using house-elf eggs and magic," Professor Ruby explained to the class.

Harry elbowed her as Hermione scoffed.

"We will be using a spell to give it the appearance of a human child in both partners' likeness and you and the chosen partner will work together over the next six weeks until April 1st to raise the said child. The baby will age typical to house elves grow, so compared to a human baby they will grow by weeks in development daily," Professor Ruby explained.

"What happens to the baby, elf after the project?" Ginny asked after raising her hand.

"Well upon graduation, you can go to the Office of House-Elf Relocation and file to obtain your elf for your household when it becomes eligible to be assigned to a home. If you do not, it will go to their elf workforce. In the future if you ever wish to obtain a house elf, you will be first to be able to select your elf if it is available," Professor Noel explained.

Hermione read over the parchment in her hand, "So this starts February 1st?"

"Yes, the pregnancy spell will be cast on February 1st. Weeks 8 through 16 will be the first week of February. Weeks 18 through 30 will be the second week, and weeks 32 through the labor spell will be within the second week. We calculate that the elf or baby will be a newborn for the first four days of life as it gets used to your DNA to become part of your family, the last week of February it will start aging approximately two weeks for every day. It grows while it sleeps. The day before Easter break, the elves will be taken to London. We did not want to interfere with your NEWT studies too much before the actual exams," Professor Noel informed everyone, "Again, take time to consider this project. Again, you may choose to turn it down and do the research paper by studying a classmate and researching the books in the library. I need these forms returned when term restarts in January so that I know how many baby elves we will need."

After class was dismissed, Hermione robotically walked up to the Head's common room and sat down on the couch looking into the fire.

"So do you think you'll do it?"

Hermione jumped, "Luna! Sorry, did you follow me?"

"Yes, I asked if I could come to study with you and you nodded so I thought it was okay," Luna said.

Hermione sighed, "Yes Luna, it is fine. What do you mean, do you think I'll do what?"

"The project," Luna stated, "I think it would be very interesting. I've always wanted to be a Mum."

Hermione sighed as she looked back at the fire, "I've never even thought of it. I want to start my career first and get that solidified before I even consider starting a family," Hermione admitted, "Children were never in my plan, honestly. I'm not sure I feel comfortable doing this project and right before our NEWTs as well."

"I think this is more your brain talking than your heart," Luna told her, "Close your eyes and think about your future. The Wrackspurts are infesting your head right now. Close your eyes and just picture it."

Hermione closed her eyes.

"Just relax, think about five years, ten years from now. Where do you see yourself?" Luna asked.

"As a solicitor working with the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures," Hermione told her, "Being the youngest department head and revolutionizing house-elf and werewolf welfare."

"Do you see picture frames on your desk? Maybe of your family?" Luna asked.

Hermione imagined herself sitting down at her desk, and looking in front of her to see a frame with her parents. Another of her friends, "No, no children."

"You know what I imagine for you? I see you not only taking the ministry by storm and becoming the youngest Minister of Magic ever, but you will have a family, you will marry your soul mate and you will have a family, but you have to let yourself want that," Luna told her.


*~*~* December 12, 1998 *~*~*

Hermione walked down the Main Street of Hogsmeade with Harry at her side. Ginny was holding Harry's hand on his other side as she talked about what she was getting each of her brothers for Christmas.

"What are you getting Ron?" Ginny asked Hermione.

"Honestly, I have no clue. I cannot get something from the joke shop because Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes probably has something better. I could try to find something that would help him at work with Dervish and Bangs maybe," Hermione said rubbing her face, "This is stressing me out. I should have ordered something by owl post weeks ago."

"His Wizarding Chess set is getting pretty beat up, you could always get him a new set," Ginny suggested.

"I wonder if I should get a transcribing quill that helps with his reports. That may help him," Hermione bit her lip, "Yeah, I'll go get that at Scrivenshaft's."

"I'm going to get him some new dress robes since Kingsley has been hinting at there being festivities for the anniversary of the battle this year. Why we need to celebrate it is beyond me," Harry said as he and Ginny walked away towards Gladrags as she entered Scrivenshaft's.

After browsing their transcribing quills and selecting one that also had auto-refilling ink, Hermione cashed out her purchase and started walking towards Honeydukes.

"Hey there gorgeous."

Hermione turned around, "Ron!" she yelled as she threw her arms around his neck.

Ron laughed as he hugged her back and kissed her, "I missed you."

"What are you doing here?" Hermione asked surprised.

"Well I knew it was Hogsmeade weekend and we were all meeting at the Three Broomsticks tonight, so I thought I'd come early. Want to go to Madam Puddifoots?" Ron asked.

Hermione looked at him, "Us in Madam Puddifoot's? No Ron, please let's not go there."

"Why not, it's a date spot. Let's go on an actual date, without Harry and Ginny," Ron suggested.

Hermione thought about it, "Sure. I guess. Let's go."

Ron took her hand and together they walked down to Madam Puddifoot's Tea Room. Both Hermione and Ron froze the moment they walked into the establishment.

"You know, Harry said this place was super girly," Ron stated.

"Like I said, we can go somewhere else," Hermione told him.

"No, no," Ron said as a woman walked over to them, "Table for two please."

"Over here."

They followed her and sat down at the small table with a white tablecloth covered in pink ribbons.

A tower of desserts and tiny sandwiches were levitated onto their table along with a teapot and teacups.

"Guess they only have one option. Merlin these sandwiches are tiny," Ron grumbled.

Hermione sighed, "How is training going?"

"I'm having a bit of trouble with stealth and disguises. Poisons and antidotes are difficult too," Ron said frowning.

"Should have paid more attention in potions," Hermione said pouring herself a cup of tea.

"Yeah, yeah," Ron said stuffing a sandwich in his mouth, "I'm doing well in battle instincts, dueling in the dark and resilience. All our years at Hogwarts were good training at something."

"You just have to make sure to apply yourself," Hermione told him.

"My trainer is a bollocks buster," Ron told her, "Every seminar and lecture, he's signing me up for it and I spend loads of time in the training rooms."

"Honestly, only right since you didn't do the NEWTS," Hermione nodded.

"Talking about NEWTs, how are the classes going?" Ron asked.

"Non-verbal spells are more difficult and that is what most of them are supposed to be. We have one class to do a new spell verbally, and then we have to continue non-verbally. Harry is doing surprisingly well this year. Even gets some of the spells before me," Hermione informed him.

Ron looked at her surprised, "Really?"

Hermione nodded, "Got a spell the first time the other day in McGonagall's class after she picked him up when he was late for oversleeping. Surprised us both. Other than that, we are preparing for this big project, but I don't think I want to do it."

"What is it?" Ron asked.

"Honestly, it's called the Child Rearing Project. They will have it so it simulates a pregnancy for me and then instead of a real baby, they will create a house elf that could be used for my future house or my partner whoever that may be in the project. It is an old spell and they should have kept it there in my opinion," Hermione huffed.

"Why don't you want to do it?" Ron asked.

Hermione set her teacup down, "I don't want to have this conversation here."

Ron frowned, "Hermione, don't you want kids?"

"Possibly, eventually, but not until my career is settled. I am only 19 years old. My parents did not have me until they were well settled within their practice," Hermione said as Ron sat back, "Why? When do you want children?"

Ron bit his lip, "Honestly, I wanted to get married sooner than later and children come soon afterward, right?"


"What's wrong?"

Hermione looked at Harry as they walked through the seventh floor towards the North Tower on their final part of rounds.

"Just," Hermione started, "Ron and I had a disagreement."

Harry frowned, "I thought you went on a date at Puddifoot's. Let me guess he didn't want to go there?"

"No, I didn't, but that wasn't the source of our argument. I told him about the project and we realized that we had different views on children," Hermione told him.

Harry stared at her, "What does he expect you to have children with him right away?"

"Essentially that is how I took it. That he wants to get married soon, and have children right away. I am not at that point, Harry. I want to focus on my career first. We just had our first date today! He is already thinking of marriage!" Hermione said hysterically.

Harry took her hands in his, "Breathe, you are getting yourself all worked up. I am sure Ron didn't mean he wanted to get married right away by any means. He just meant sooner than later. It is good that you had this conversation early though."

Hermione opened her eyes after calming down, "Have you and Ginny?"

Harry led her down the hallway, "She wants to try out for the Quidditch leagues. Family is not in the picture for her."

Hermione glanced at him, "What do you want?"

Harry shrugged, "I grew up basically on my own, Hermione. I'll admit, I look at the Weasley family and I see," Harry swallowed, "I see the Weasleys and I see love. A huge, loving family that yes, they fight and disagree, but they are there for each other. Look even Percy with all he did came back to the family."

"Harry, do you want Ginny or do you want a family?" Hermione asked him honestly.

Harry froze and looked at her frowning, "I like Ginny."

"I'm not saying that you don't," Hermione said in defense, "I just don't want you to force yourself into loving her, because of the family."

Harry shook his head, "No, I've liked Ginny for years." He told her as he started walking.

"Since you lost Sirius," Hermione rationalized, "Again, not saying what you are feeling isn't real-"

"Quit psychoanalyzing me!" Harry said throwing his hands up in the air, "I really like her!"

"Good, I just wanted to make…" Hermione trailed off as she heard voices coming from the tower where Divination was held, "Do you hear that?"

Harry lit his wand and Hermione followed him as they crept up the stairs to the Divination room. The tower was eerily quiet, the only sound that was heard was the soft echoing of their footsteps on the stone steps and the strange melody.

"What do you think it is?" Harry whispered in confusion.

Hermione shrugged, "Sounds like someone is trying to do an incantation."

Cautiously, with wands at the ready, Harry pushed open the trap door to the Divination room. Peeking his head inside, the room was dimly lit by numerous flickering candles, and a floral smell permeated the air.

"Maybe it's just Trelawney," Hermione whispered as they entered the classroom leaving the trapdoor open.

Walking deeper into the classroom, both Harry and Hermione froze in their tracks.

At the center of the room, flower petals were scattered around the floor in a circle. In the middle of the circle, lay Neville, naked and his modesty covered only with green leaves.

"What in the world?" Harry said as Hermione put her hand over his mouth, she noticed Luna, in the most interesting outfit of flowing colored silks that she had ever worn before, dancing around the circle.

"By moonlight's grace and Nargle's wane, cleanse this soul and banish the bane!" Luna sang throwing more petals in the air.

Hermione glanced at Harry, and then cleared her throat, "Luna?"

Luna turned towards them smiling, her silvery eyes twinkling in the candlelight, "Harry, Hermione! I sensed you were coming to join us and you both will help me drive the Nargles away faster! Neville is infested with Nargles, you see and they are preventing him from doing well in his exam as they mettle with his thoughts."

"Nargles?" Harry questioned, "I thought they lived in mistletoe."

"Oh no, they can be anywhere. They are tricky creatures. They are known to infest those with bright auras. I'm doing a ritual to rid Neville of their interference," Luna explained in her dreamy voice.

Hermione cleared her throat trying not to look at a naked Neville, "Luna, there is perhaps a better way to remove them, that gives Neville more privacy."

Luna smiled, "Don't worry about Neville. He's in good hands. The Squill petals that I am burning and that he is lying on make them feel welcome as they leave."

Harry and Hermione looked at each other trying to convey what the other was thinking. Arguing with Luna was not going to help the situation and Neville, despite the possibility of being knocked out, did not appear to be harmed.

Hermione knelt next to Neville, "Neville, are you alright?"

"Oh, he is just asleep. The spell works best after vigorous lovemaking you see," Luna told her as she spun in the smoke.

Hermione quickly stood up and backed into Harry, who started to chuckle, "Oh, well Luna it's nearly midnight and the professors will be patrolling at midnight. You might want to... finish and get him out of here before then."

"Thank you! We are nearly complete," Luna said dancing around.

Harry grabbed her hand and led her back to the trap door. They stayed silent until they made it to the grand staircase and walked down to the fifth floor. Making it to their common room, as soon as the door shut, Harry started laughing as Hermione gasped with her hand on her mouth.

"I can't… believe what we just witnessed!" Harry choked out.

"I saw Neville naked!" Hermione said appalled making Harry laugh harder.


*~*~* December 18, 1998 *~*~*

"Hey, Hermione?"

Hermione stood in front of the mirror in her room curling her hair, "Yes, Harry?"

"Are you decent?" Harry asked her through the door.

"Yes, I am dressed," Hermione told him turning as he opened her door.

"It's been bugging me, but why…" Harry trailed off as he saw her, "Wow."

Hermione glanced at her reflection to see her black dress with flowers accenting the strap that went over her shoulders to hold up the dress, "It's not too much is it?" She asked as she reached and grabbed her robe from her bed, "I have this long-sleeved robe to go over it."

"No you look amazing," Harry said honestly looking down at his silver robes.

"What has been bugging you?" Hermione asked going back to curling her hair up.

"Oh, why is it that I can use your wand without issue, but I struggled to use Ritchie's during class yesterday?" Harry asked leaning on her doorframe.

Hermione pinned up the curl on top of her head, "Maybe it's because we know each other better? I do not know, it is something I may have to research into. Have you ever tried using Ginny's wand?"

"No, I might have to try and see if your theory is close," Harry said as he glanced at his watch, "I better go get Ginny."

"See you in the Great Hall," Hermione told him as he left.

With a sigh, she looked into the mirror, "Don't be disappointed if Ron doesn't show. If he shows it will be a positive surprise," She said to herself pinning her last curl. Slipping into her shoes and robes, she grabbed her wand and slid it into her pocket.

Leaving the Head's office, she walked down the Grand Staircase to see Draco Malfoy at the bottom of the stairs.

Seventh-year Slytherin Prefect, Selina Padgett looked up to see Hermione walking down the stairs, "Hermione, you look gorgeous."

"Thank you, Selina, you look amazing as well," Hermione said complementing her green robes that matched Draco's perfectly.

"Granger," Draco sighed, "I apologize for my behavior in Hogsmeade. Sometimes I slip back into, what I do not wish to be any longer when I am around certain people. I am doing my best to improve. You do look wonderful tonight."

Hermione looked at him surprised, "Well, thank you, Mal… Draco. I hope in the future, if we have to, we can work amicably together as we once did in Arithmancy."

With a nod of his head, Draco led Selina away towards the Great Hall.

Hermione shook her head as she followed behind and spotted Luna in a pair of extremely colorful robes, "Hello Luna. Will Neville be able to attend?"

"He will do his best to attend until he can, will you be my date?" Luna asked with a smile.

Hermione smiled, "You know what Luna… I would be honored. Ron will also be hoping to attend."

"Let's go find us a table so that Ginny and Harry can sit with us too," Luna said with her normal airy voice as she took Hermione's arm and they walked to an available table.

Taking off her robes, Hermione laid them over the back of her chair. Tapping her wand on her place card, her name appeared along with her order. Taking the card next to her, she tapped it as well to put Ron's name on his.

Picking up her glass, sparkling grape juice appeared within the glass as she glanced over at the front of the Great Hall to see Dean was already set up playing music from Wizarding Wireless as 'Blood Suckers' by the Weird Sisters blared across the speakers and some students were already dancing on the dance floor.

The Great Hall was covered in shimmering silver and blue decorations as snowflakes floated down from the enchanted ceiling that showed not only the stars in the sky, but glimpses of shooting stars darting across the surface.

"You and Harry did a wonderful job, Hermione," Luna told her.

"This one was mostly Flitwick. We just gave him the ideas and he went with ideas similar to the Yule Ball too," Hermione told her as Harry entered the doors with Ginny on his arm, who was wearing a short black and red dress that was visible under her robes. It appeared she had attempted to curl her hair, but instead made it look slightly messy, which went perfectly with Harry's constantly messy hair.

"Hi Luna, Hermione. You both look wonderful," Ginny said as she walked over and hugged Luna, then Hermione, "Is my brother coming?"

"He and Neville are going to try, but if they don't, we decided to be each other's dates," Luna said as she danced off trying to catch a snowflake as the Muggle song 'Fantasy' by Mariah Carey started playing.

"Just make sure she doesn't do any rituals with you as her date," Harry said with a grin.

Hermione elbowed him, "Enough Harry."

Ginny looked at them confused, "Rituals?"

"Hermione and I ran into an interesting ritual that Luna was doing to Neville," Harry explained, as Ginny looked at them wide-eyed.

"I could only imagine with what she tells me they get up to," Ginny said shaking her head.

Luna came back over to them, "Hermione, let's dance!"

She looked back at Harry and Ginny, who waved at her as Luna dragged Hermione onto the dance floor. Making it to the center of the dance floor, Hermione stood back a moment as Luna started to dance similar to how she danced at Bill's wedding with her father. Luna grabbed her hands and Hermione laughed as Luna started twirling her on the dance floor. Luna's dress seemed to change colors in the lights as she moved.

After a few dances, more students made their way to the dance floor with them. Hermione fanned herself as a slow song started and Professor McGonagall announced that dinner would now be served.

Laughing, Hermione and Luna walked over to their table, where Ginny and Harry were already sitting talking to Tracy Darker and Duncan Flockton, the Gryffindor 7th-year Prefects who had come to the ball together.

Harry glanced up at them as she and Luna sat down at their table, "Danced out, Dancing Queens?"

"We are young and sweet, and Luna is only 17," Hermione said with a smirk as she sat down to take a drink, "Didn't see you up there."

"And you won't," Harry told her as Ginny grinned holding up a small bottle, "What is that?"

"Just some liquid courage, not liquid luck either," Ginny told her with a smile.

"Are these seats taken?"

"Ron!" Hermione said surprised as she stood up so fast her chair fell into his legs.

Ron laughed as she threw her arms around his neck and pulled her closer to him. Burying his face in her hair, she heard him inhale, "I'm glad you aren't still mad at me."

"No, I was never mad," Hermione explained as she looked up at him, "Honestly, it's just something we have to work through."

Neville sat down next to Luna and glanced at Harry, "Harry, I-"

"Don't worry about it, we shared a room for six years. I saw more of you then," Harry told him as he took a drink of Butterbeer and then looked at Ginny, "You put it in my Butterbeer?"

Ginny just winked with a smile.

Ron sat down next to Hermione, "So what have I missed? Harry got an eyeful of Neville and Luna or something?" Ron asked.

Neville spit out his punch and coughed as he blushed.

"Oh Merlin, you did!" Ron laughed.

"Not just me, Hermione too," Harry said glancing at Hermione.

"They weren't… in action. Neville was asleep and Luna was doing a ritual. He was covered, I didn't see… all," Hermione explained to Ron.

"I'm sure she saw more of us when we were on the run," Harry informed Ron as Ginny knocked over her drink, "You okay?" Harry asked Ginny.

"Yeah, yeah. Just… had a thought," Ginny said shaking her head as food appeared on the table.


Hermione sat in between Ron and Harry, tapping her toe to the music as a newer song called 'Barbie Girl' blared across the Great Hall, "Well at least everyone seems to enjoy the music."

"I recognized 'Midnight Stars' by Celestina Warbeck, but I don't know this one," Ron told her.

"It's a Muggle song, I assume," Harry said glancing at Hermione, who nodded, "Figured when it mentioned Barbie. Barbie is a Muggle toy."

Ron nodded as the song switched, "Oh this one is a Wizarding Wireless song."

"It's 'Sweetie, You're Crazy' by Ricky Phillips," Ginny informed him as she glanced at Harry, "Are we ever going to dance?"

Harry frowned, "I don't like to dance."

Ginny stood up, "Come on, all you have to do is jump around. Do I need to put more Firewhiskey in your Butterbeer?"

Harry sighed as he stood up, "Fine."

Hermione bit her lip and sat back in her chair with her arms crossed over her chest.

Ron clicked his tongue, "I guess, you want to dance too?"

Hermione glanced over at him, "Not if you don't want to."

Ron watched Harry slowly move as Ginny danced around him, "Fine, we can dance."

Taking his hand as he offered it to her, Hermione let him lead her to the dance floor next to Ginny and Harry, who was getting more into the music as it changed to a song Hermione knew.

"At least this one is slower," Hermione yelled over the music as 'Quit Playing Games with My Heart' by the Backstreet Boys started blaring and she started swaying to the music, holding his hand to try to get him to sway with her.

Neville and Luna gracefully danced over to the beat to dance with them. Ginny threw her arms around Harry's neck to dance closer to him.

"This isn't bad of a song," Ron stated as he saw her singing along, "You know this one?"

"It's a popular Muggle song. So yes," Hermione informed him.

Ron sighed as he put his arms around her waist, "I'm sorry I don't know more about Muggle stuff."

Hermione swallowed hard, "It won't be much if you want to take the time to learn something. I'm sure your father would love to teach you or learn with you."

The next song was lively as another Wizarding Wireless song came on and their group danced together for the next three songs. After 'Magic Works' by The Weird Sisters ended and 'Wannabe' by the Spice Girls started, Ron went to get a drink as the girls started dancing together.

"I'm going to get a drink too, want one?" Ginny asked Harry as 'Kiss from a Rose' by Seal came on.

"I'm good," Harry said as Ginny walked away and he looked at Hermione, "Can I have this dance?"

Hermione smiled as she took his hand and they twirled around a bit, "This feels familiar," She said as she rested her head briefly on his shoulder and then looked up at him.

"I'm glad you are happy tonight," Harry told her as he started dancing as they did in the tent causing her to laugh again.

"Thank you, Harry," Hermione said with a smile, "You know how to make me laugh."

"I am glad, if I could only do that I'd be proud," Harry informed her as he spun her.

"Harry, I didn't know you could dance," Neville said as he and Luna danced over to them.

"He just needed the right partner," Luna said with a smile.


*~*~* December 19, 1998 *~*~*

Unlocking the front door to her parents' house, Hermione turned on the light, "Are you sure that you don't want to stay at the Burrow with Ginny and Ron?" Hermione asked, "I understand if you do."

"No, I'm fine here," Harry told her as she went around turning on the lights.

"I need to do a freshening spell and go run to get some food for us," Hermione told him, as she looked at the mail that the neighbor had put on the table and then binned it, as it was all junk mail.

"I can do the freshening spells around the house. I'd go get food, but I'm not sure I can remember where the store is," Harry told her, "I can go with you though. When does your Mum come home?"

"The 27th. It was cheaper to come home after Christmas, which I understand. So she will be here from the 27th through the third. So we can spend New Year with her," Hermione told him.

"What did your family use to do for New Year?" Harry asked as he cast the refreshing charms for the air.

"Stayed home, it was the only time I could have champagne. We would watch the festivities on the television and, the fireworks in town. Occasionally my parents would have a party or we would go to one, but usually, we just spent it here. Mum and Dad had to go to work the next day, so nothing spectacular," Hermione said as she leaned against the couch, "What about the Dursleys?"

"Mrs. Figg and I always spent it together," Harry said with a shrug, "They went to a party and I was left with her. It was always tea with the cats."

"She had lots of cats? Is that why you and Crookshanks always got along?" Hermione asked.

"She had like ten of them, part Kneazle I've learned. Mr. Tibbles, Mr. Paws, and the like," Harry said shaking his head, "She used them to spy on me."

Hermione frowned as she stopped him from raising his wand again, "Let's go get some food before it's too late."

Harry nodded, "Sounds good."


*~*~* December 22, 1998 *~*~*

Hermione was helping Harry with the Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo, when there was a knock at the back door, "It's open!"

Ginny stomped her feet to get the snow from them as they walked in through the backdoor, "It's a blizzard out there."

"We brought Butterbeer and Mom sent cookies!" Ron announced as he dusted himself off and toed his shoes off, then walked over to Hermione, "Aren't you adorable in your apron?" Ron leaned down to kiss her, "Hello."

"Hi, was the journey that long?" Hermione joked with a smile.

"Almost took a wrong turn at Big Ben because someone wouldn't shut her trap," Ron joked glancing at Ginny, who glared at him, "I can't wait until she gets her apparition license."

"Not my fault the Ministry is still cleaning up, so I haven't been able to do my test," Ginny said as she walked over to Harry and threw her arms around his neck, "Hi honey."

"Hey Gin," Harry said as he kissed her.

"What's for dinner?" Ron asked Hermione as he put his arm around her waist.

"Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo," Hermione told him as the timer went off, "With breadsticks, going Italian tonight."

Ron looked at Ginny, "Have we ever had Alfredo?"

"Don't think so," Ginny said as she put her arms around Harry from behind and rested her head on his back.

The timer beeped and Hermione turned off the stove, "What does everyone want to drink? We have wine, water, some fizzy drinks. Go ahead and look in the fridge."

Ron grabbed a beer, while Ginny took a bottle of wine. Harry grabbed the pans and put them on the table as they all went to sit down.

"Dinner smells amazing," Ginny said as they walked into the dining room.

"I always wondered, if you are magical why does your electricity work? I thought it didn't work around magic," Ron said as he pulled Hermione's chair out.

"I've never had issues," Hermione shrugged.

"Only time I ever drove it haywire is when I blew up Aunt Marge," Harry stated, "But that was some major magical energy from what I was told by Sirius."

They all took their seats, poured their beverages, and then dug in.

Harry raised his glass, "I want to give a toast to our host. Thank you, Hermione, for everything. Also to new beginnings and good company."

"Hear, Hear!"

"So, how was Hogwarts? Hermione told me a little about the big project coming up," Ron stated as he finished his first bowl of pasta.

Ginny smiled as she looked at Harry, "I for one cannot wait. Yeah, I am in no hurry to be a Mum, but it will be interesting to see how it feels. Even for a short time. Plus, after the project is over, I get to do the Quidditch tryouts."

"What do you think your chances are?" Hermione asked wiping her mouth.

"Fair, I'm not expecting to make the main teams for any of the league. I'd be happy for the second string honestly," Ginny told her, "What about you, Hermione? What are your plans for after graduation?"

"Taking on the Ministry and becoming the next Minister of Magic," Ron stated as he looked at her, "Am I right?"

Hermione set her napkin down on her lap, "I've been talking to Kingsley. There is a program to work with higher education. I want to become a solicitor to learn more about the law for not only the muggle side but magical law as well."

Ron set his fork down and frowned, "More school? Is there school after Hogwarts?"

Hermione sighed, "Not really here in the UK, yet. Kingsley is discussing with some institutions to start classes and what would benefit the Wizarding World. Even though he is Pureblood, Kingsley's mother was raised by Muggles so he knows the perspective of the muggle world."

"So, you would wait until it gets started? Work in the ministry until then?" Ginny asked.

"No, I haven't decided, of course, but," Hermione sighed, "There is a program with MACUSA-"

"Wait, across the ocean? You'd go across the ocean to school?" Ron asked as he stood up.

"Ron, I haven't decided," Hermione stated looking up at him, "I'm just looking at my options."

"Merlin Hermione! This year has been hard enough with you at Hogwarts and me at the Ministry and now you want to go across the pond for what? Years?" Ron asked, "What about me?"

Hermione stood up, "It's not always about you, Ron! This is about my life, my career; I'm not planning on being your mother!"

"What is that supposed to mean!?" Ron asked as Harry went to stand up and Ginny pushed his shoulder to make him sit down.

"It means, I don't plan on just staying home with kids and making dinner every night. IF we get married, IF we have kids, I am going to get a job and a career first, and that is my priority. Then, once I feel settled in my career, starting a family will be a possibility," Hermione told him.

Ron pursed his lips and turned then went out the back door.

"Ron!" Hermione yelled as she went after him.

Ron turned around, halfway up the backyard, "Hermione, I just have to get away before I say something I regret. I'll see you Christmas day, okay."

"Ron, don't leave. I can't take you leaving again," Hermione told him as her chest felt like it was sinking in.

Ron pulled her into his arms, "I'm not leaving for good. Hell, I might be over tomorrow. I just, need to think some things through tonight." With a kiss on her hair. He stepped back and disapparated.

Hermione pulled her sweater closer to her and then walked back into the house. Taking her shoes back off, she looked at Harry and Ginny as she slid the door closed.

"Where's Ron?" Ginny asked.

"He had to leave for the night. He might stop by tomorrow, if not, I'll see him on Christmas Day," Hermione told them as she went into the kitchen, "Is everyone done?"

Harry walked into the kitchen, "Are you sure you are okay?"

Hermione sighed as she leaned on the counter, "I'm fine. I think I am just going to go upstairs, take a shower then go to bed. Do you have everything handled?"

"I'll clean up after Ginny and I are done," Harry explained, "I have a question for you though. Is it okay if Ginny stays over tonight?"

Hermione looked up at him with her eyebrows raised in surprise, "Overnight?"

Harry blushed, "Nothing like that Hermione. I swear. I wouldn't let… that happen in your house."

Hermione sighed, "It's fine, Harry. At least someone gets to be with their significant other. Night."

"Goodnight," Harry told her.

Hermione poked her head into the dining room "Goodnight, Ginny."

"Goodnight Hermione," Ginny said as she got up, "Everything alright?"

"Yeah, I got too cold outside and I am just going to go upstairs to take a shower, then head to bed," Hermione told her, "Don't worry about me. Just enjoy the rest of your night."

Hermione headed over to the stairs and walked up them. When she was at the top, she heard Ginny's voice. "Is Hermione okay?"

Harry replied, "I hope they can get past this again. Hermione was devastated about him leaving last year. This is something they have to talk about. At least we both understand that if we get to that point, neither of us wants to rush."

"We are way too young for that," Ginny stated.

Hermione swallowed as she walked to her bedroom and shut the door behind her.

After taking a long shower, Hermione dressed in her flannel nightgown and a pair of thick socks, decided to go downstairs to get a cup of hot cocoa. Quietly, she listened after leaving her room and not hearing any voices coming from Harry's room. After walking down the steps, she walked through the living room and gasped as she saw Ginny on top of Harry as they snogged on the couch.

"Hermione!" Harry said as he sat up and Ginny pulled her shirt down.

"Sorry, don't let me interrupt. I'm just getting a cup of cocoa," Hermione said as she hurried past.

Harry hurried in after her, "Are you okay?"

Hermione turned and looked back at him as she put a cup of milk into the microwave to warm, "I'm fine. Really. Go back to Ginny. I'm just making a cup of cocoa to fully warm up."

"Are you sure you are okay?" Harry asked concerned.

"I'm fine, Harry. Honestly," Hermione told him as she pulled the mug out of the microwave and added the cocoa mix, "I'm going back upstairs and you two are free to continue as if I wasn't even here."

After stirring, she walked past him and glanced at Ginny, who was sitting on the couch, "Sorry. Goodnight, for real this time."

"Night," Ginny said as Hermione headed up the stairs.

Once in her room, Hermione set her cocoa down and climbed back into bed. Picking up her book, she sat back against her headboard and then started to read the text on Magical Household spells when she heard footsteps on the stairs.

Ginny giggled and Harry shushed her, "No Ginny, nothing is going to happen tonight. Honestly. Not in Hermione's house. It's too weird."

Hermione did not pick up the words of her reply before the door shut to Harry's room.


a/n: Thank you to the new followers: lauraanahi916, rdgarrick, and Shar Crimson Jade. Please remember to review so I know what you are all thinking of this!