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.
And this is when the feeling sinks in,
I don't wanna miss you like this.
Come back, be here
Come back, be here.
I guess you're in New York today,
I don't wanna need you this way.
Come back, be here.
Come back, be here.
The delicate beginning rush,
The feeling you can know so much.
Without knowing anything at all,
And now that I can put this down.
If I had known what I'd known now,
I never would've played so nonchalant.
Taxi cabs and busy streets,
That never bring you back to me.
I can't help but wish you took me with you.
~ Come Back, Be Here by Taylor Swift
*~*~* January 2, 2004 *~*~*
Hermione was sitting in the bay window of their house reading a book when the fireplace lit up green, and Harry stumbled out. Hermione smiled, "Never can you get the hang of floo travel?"
"Why can't magical travel be easier," Harry complained, dusting off his black robes, "Where is Ron?"
Hermione pointed towards the kitchen, "Kitchen, of course. Why? What's going on?"
Harry took a deep breath, "I have some news. Hey Ron! Can you come in here, please?"
Ron walked into the sitting room with a sandwich, "What's up?"
Harry looked at them, "I've been selected for advanced training with the International Magical Law Academy. They want me to go to New York and Virginia to train with MACUSA's Auror program."
Ron's eyes widened, meat dropping from his sandwich onto the floor, "Blimey, Harry, that's incredible!"
"Yeah," Harry stated, running a hand in his messy hair, "But I just found out today, and I only have a week before I have to leave."
Hermione closed her book and sat up concerned, "That's so soon. How long will you be gone?"
Harry looked at her, "Six months. It will be intense training, field work, survival training."
Ron clapped Harry on the back, "Don't worry about a thing here, Harry. I'll step up and help Hermione with Teddy. We've got this covered."
Harry smiled at Ron, "Thank you, Ron." Rubbing the back of his neck, Harry looked up towards the stairs, "I'm going to go start packing. They will give us an apartment there, so I have to figure out what things I want to take with me."
Harry started up the stairs and then froze, "Shit, I need to tell Ginny. I need to go see her."
Ron and Hermione watched Harry breeze past them into the floo. They stood quietly watching the fireplace until Ron turned to Hermione, "How are you going to manage with Harry gone for six months?"
Hermione bit her lip, "I don't know. The bond is strong, but this will be the test," Hermione stated.
Ron put his arm around her, "You are the strong, confident witch, so you'll be fine. But I'm here when you need me."
Hermione laid her head on Ron's chest, "Thank you, Ron. It means a lot that you are always on my side."
*~*~* January 8, 2004 *~*~*
The day before Harry left for America, Hermione found herself sitting cross-legged with a book in her lap on Harry's bed in his room, and he essentially tore his room apart. Clothes were strewn across the bed and floor, and books that she had gone through were stacked on his desk and bedside table, depending on whether she thought they would benefit him in the US.
Teddy was at the desk drawing a picture for Harry. As Hermione looked over at him, she saw his tongue sticking out, showing how much he concentrated on it as he colored with his markers.
Harry picked up a shirt off the floor and sniffed it before folding it and placing it into his suitcase, "You know, I never imagined I'd be going back to America myself."
Hermione pursed her lips together as she continued to flip through the book in her hand, "Weird how things work out."
Harry sat down with his back against his bed next to her, "I'll be training with MACUSA Aurors, going to the FBI for two months for training, and even the CIA."
Hermione looked at him, "Could you give me a timeline of your training? Not that I know where to find you, but you know, just in case?"
Harry got up, went over to his desk, and moved the stack of books to the side to take out a folder. Taking out a piece of paper, Harry read it, "I'll leave tomorrow, and we'll land in Washington, DC. They will give us tours and do paperwork before we start at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, on Monday. I'll be there through March 12th. We will learn forensic science, advanced investigative techniques, interviewing, and counterterrorism, and it says there is intense training in physical fitness, defensive tactics, and practical exercises." Harry read as he sat beside her, "I get that weekend off, then I have to go to Camp Peary until their Easter break, where I go to MACUSA for a seminar, then back to Camp Peary a week later. My CIA training ends on May 14th, and then I will finish my time in New York at MACUSA."
Hermione took the paper from him, "Wow, CIA training looks intense. Simulated attacks, defensive driving. This is hard-core military-style training. Muggle and Magical methods. Learning about surveillance." She looked at him, "Harry, this will be hard work."
Harry sighed, "I know."
"Don't get me wrong. This is an incredible opportunity, Harry. You will learn a lot and bring back valuable skills to further the program here. Is anyone else going with you?" Hermione asked.
"One other Auror from my training team, Jake. I don't know him, but he is Muggleborn, so he was picked because we can blend well in with the Muggles," Harry told her as he laid back on his bed beside her.
Harry glanced at Teddy, "Two months with the FBI, two months with the CIA, then two months with MACUSA. It's going to be intense, I'm excited."
Hermione held up a book before levitating it over to the 'take' pile, "This one has some advanced defensive spells and strategies that I think maybe handy to you."
"Thanks, Hermione," Harry told her as he grabbed her hand, "I want your opinion. Robards mentioned it to me. When I return home, I can train under him as a Hit Wizard."
Hermione's eyes widened as her heart rate increased, "Hit Wizard, that's… a big responsibility. Have you thought about it?"
Harry ran his fingers through his hair, "A bit. One of the vets told me that before the war, Sirius and my dad were signed up to become Hit Wizards before they had to go into hiding. I'm not sure if it's the right path for me."
Hermione turned towards him and ran her fingers through his hair, "Harry, being a Hit Wizard is a serious commitment. It's dangerous and much more demanding than an Auror. You will have the skills, especially after this training, but the question is whether you want to actually do it."
Harry put his arms under his head, "That's it, Hermione. I'm not sure. I feel a sense of duty to Dad and Sirius to finish what they couldn't. But I also feel like I fought enough for my life before we even graduated."
Hermione leaned down and kissed his forehead, "Whatever you do, decide. We will support you. It's okay to choose a path that makes you happy. You've given so much already to this world."
Teddy jumped off the chair and ran over, throwing himself on the books, making Hermione gasp and Harry laugh. Teddy hugged Harry and held up his drawing, "I'm done!"
Harry took it, and Hermione smiled at the look on Harry's face. In the colorful drawing was a house that looked just like theirs. Harry, Hermione, Teddy, and Ron held hands in front. In Teddy's handwriting, it said Miz U Luv U. Harry kissed the top of Teddy's head, "I'll miss you, and I love you too."
Harry looked up at Hermione, "I'll think about it while I'm in America. Depending on the training there."
Hermione nodded, "Sounds like a plan."
*~*~* January 9, 2004 *~*~*
Standing at Heathrow's Portkey office, Hermione listened to Teddy chatting with Harry, excited about Harry's adventure. Ginny was there with her and Ron to see Harry off. Hermione looked at her watch as Harry shared a kiss with her.
Harry hugged Ron, and they whispered something before pulling away. He walked over to where she stood, looking at her, "Be careful. Text me. I won't be able to have my phone on me much, but I'll see your messages at night. I gave you all the information on everything for the house. If you need anything else you know-"
Hermione hugged him tightly, "We'll be fine, Harry. We'll miss you every moment, but I want you to learn a lot and enjoy yourself."
Harry hugged her tighter, "I'll miss you too, Hermione."
Teddy wrapped his arms around their legs, "You'll be back soon, Dadda."
Harry knelt down and ruffled Teddy's curling hair, "I will, Bud. When I get home, we will have lots of fun. Mumma has her phone. I might not always be able to answer it, but you can leave me messages. Don't forget I love you so much."
After a final round of hugs and goodbyes, Jake, the other Auror from his department, walked over with his suitcase. "Ready Potter?"
Harry nodded, "Ready as I'll ever be."
Walking over to their Portkey, they picked it up. With a smile, Harry and Jake disappeared.
The moment he disappeared, Hermione swore she felt a tug in her chest.
*~*~* February 24, 2008 *~*~*
Luna looked at Hermione, "How long before you started feeling the distance?"
"It wasn't too bad for the first week or two, but after the first month. I really started feeling it," Hermione stated.
"What were you experiencing?" Luna asked, "There is so little documentation of magical compatibility bonds."
Hermione sighed, "It started out just as almost aching muscles. It was as if I had been working out too hard, which I did do a bit after Theo forced me to leave work on time, and I started running on the treadmill again to help my head when Teddy was home. I will admit, I started losing it a bit at the beginning of February."
*~*~* February 7, 2004 *~*~*
Hermione rushed down the stairs, nearly tripping at the bottom as the floo chimed that someone was trying to come through. Sliding into the sitting room, she sighed when she saw Ginny.
"Did you run in here?" Ginny asked, confused, a grocery bag in her hand.
"I just put Teddy to sleep. I'm going to go make sure the silencing ward is working. Go ahead and let everyone in," Hermione said as she hurried back up the stairs.
Walking up to Teddy's room, she stepped in to ensure he was still asleep and checked to ensure his room was quiet despite the sound machine. Quietly shutting the door behind her, she walked back downstairs to see Luna had arrived with a fruit basket, and Hannah had a basket with meats and cheeses from the Leaky. Hermione had them follow her to the kitchen as Parvati and Padma arrived at the backdoor laughing.
Within 15 minutes, Susan, Lavender, Katie, and Alicia joined them with various drinks and desserts.
"Thanks for coming here tonight, guys. Ron had to work tonight, and with Harry out of the country, I hate giving up any time with Teddy that I have to," Hermione stated, opening the wine to let it breathe.
"Granger, that stuff is shite. Breathe this one first," Pansy stated as she walked in with Daphne trailing behind her.
Parvati choked and looked at Hermione, "What are Pansy Parkinson and Daphne Greengrass doing here?"
"I invited them," Hermione stated, "We are out of Hogwarts. I've gotten to know Daphne, and you all will love her. No offense, Pansy, but she is something it takes a bit to get used to, but you will grow to love her."
"Damn right," Pansy stated as she popped a piece of cheese in her mouth as she leaned on the counter next to Hermione, "Drake calls me a parasite that you grow to need."
"Anyways, I ordered pizza, I have a fondue pot set up. This one is cheese, this one is chocolate," Hermione stated.
Katie walked over, "How does this work?"
Hermione showed her how to work the fondue while people started pouring wine for each other.
"Pizza, fondue, and wine? We need to have girl's night here more often," Alicia said with a grin as she popped a piece of bread covered in cheese in her mouth.
After the pizza arrived, they duplicated the pillows and entered the sitting room. While eating pizza, Padma suggested a game of truth.
"Hermione, can we have some paper? Everyone writes down some truth questions. We are doing the honor system here," Padma stated as Hermione got some paper out and handed it to the girls.
Pansy volunteered to go first after the questions were written down and put into a bowl.
Padma pulled a question, "If you had to go back with an ex, who would you choose?"
"I dated this man in Milan. Amazing in bed," Pansy grinned as she turned to Daphne.
Pansy unfolded the question, "This is what I'm talking about. Have you ever had sex on the beach?"
Daphne blushed, "It's not as good as people think. It takes days to get sand out of everywhere."
Daphne turned to Hermione after she drew the question. Daphne looked at Hermione, "Where is the weirdest place you've had sex?"
Hermione blushed, glancing at Ginny, "At the Burrow."
"Seriously? Where?" Alicia asked.
Hermione covered her face, "In Arthur's workshop."
Ginny choked on her wine, "Seriously?! That's…ew."
Hermione quickly grabbed a question for Luna, "Have you ever had a run-in with the law?"
"Solicitor Granger, will charges be pressed if I say yes?" Luna asked.
Hermione snorted, "No."
"Rolf and I were caught in a forest fornicating by muggle police once," Luna stated.
Ginny shook her head as Luna drew a question for her, "You and Rolf have to get up to some weird stuff."
"If you had to kiss someone in this room, who would it be?" Luna asked Ginny.
"Um…" Ginny said, looking around, "I guess you?"
"I'm flattered," Luna stated as Ginny picked a question for Alicia.
They went three more rounds, shared another bottle of wine, and laughed at each other's expense before returning to Hermione.
"Alright, Hermione," Daphne said as she unfolded the question, "What was the best sex you've ever had and with whom?"
Hermione grabbed her wine and drank it, "Can I pass?"
"Nope, Granger, why are you embarrassed by him… or her?" Pansy asked.
"It was in the workshop with Ron," Hermione stated as she poured more wine and realized they were out.
"Other than Ron," Ginny stated.
"Nope, just Ron," Hermione stated as she grabbed another bottle from the dining room table.
Parvati stood up, gasping, "Oh, Merlin! Hermione, is Ron all you've been with?"
Lavender groaned, "Oh, Hermione."
Susan shook her head, "I'm a little biased since we just broke up, but really?"
Hermione blushed, "It's by choice. I haven't dated anyone since who I have felt comfortable enough with to do… that."
"Not even Oliver?" Ginny asked in disbelief, "Or Neville? Even Dean! Dean was great at sex. Very attentive."
"No, Ginny. Again, it was a choice. I don't want to just jump into a sexual relationship," Hermione told them.
"Shit, the longest I have gone without sex was two months, and that was torture," Katie stated, "How long ago did you two break up?"
"2000," Hermione stated as she tipped back her wine.
"Guys, how about we just move on," Daphne stated.
"Thank you," Hermione stated as she sat on the couch.
The game quickly winded down, and Lavender brought out nail polishes and facial masks for everyone. The mood started improving as everyone indulged in the impromptu spa night. Daphne and Pansy showed everyone some of the lesser-known pureblood beauty charms.
Katie brought a plate of cookies as Hermione put 'When Harry Met Sally' on the TV. She went back into the kitchen and grabbed another bottle of wine.
Parvati laughed, "We are such lushes. That is what? Our fourth or fifth bottle?"
"Fifth, I think," Hermione said, refilling her glass and sitting for the movie.
"Has anyone read the Notebook by Nicholas Sparks?" Susan asked, "They are coming out with a movie of it."
"Oooh, that was a great book," Hermione said, her eyes getting a bit heavy, "Sadly book to movie adaptations could be so ruined."
Curled up with blankets, many with wine in hand, film showing in front of them. Katie looked at them all after Sally and Harry had a conversation about women in his life being satisfied and faking orgasms, "Who has faked one?"
Hermione raised her hand with many of the girls, "Ron rarely got me off," she admitted.
Ginny covered her ears, "I don't want to hear this."
"My acting was never that good, though," Hermione admitted.
"Can guys and girls be just friends without any sexual tension?" Katie asked.
Ginny snorted, "We have the prime example right here. Look at Harry and Hermione. It's worked for them. Harry thinks of her like a sister."
Hermione felt a pull at her heart at Ginny's words. Had Harry said that to her? Taking a long sip of wine, she felt the warmth of the alcohol numbing her. "Yeah, Harry and I are like siblings," She stated.
After the movie finished, everyone started cleaning up. Hermione was sitting on the couch, half asleep, looking over at Luna as Ginny went into the kitchen, "I miss him."
Luna squeezed her hand, "He'll be back before you know it."
Hermione nodded, blinking back tears, "It just hurts all over." Sighing, she closed her eyes, laying her head back on the couch and listening to her friends move around her.
"Hey Angelina, would you help me if I need help with the wedding planning?" Ginny asked from the kitchen.
"Sure. Did you and Harry decide on a date?" Angelina asked.
"Next February. I thought it would be romantic to get married on Valentine's Day," Ginny told her as she entered the room, "Hey Hermione, will you help me plan the wedding? There is no one else Harry trusts more than… oh, she is asleep."
*~*~* February 26, 2004 *~*~*
"So, are you going to the DA meetup here this weekend?" Dean asked as he sat down next to Hermione at the bar.
Hermione looked at him as she sipped her cocktail, "No, I have Teddy on weekends. Until Harry comes back, I'm not doing anything on weekends."
"Damn, I was hoping to have some support there," Dean told her as he picked up one of her chips.
Hermione looked at him, "Support for what?"
Dean bit his lip, "I thought about some things after we broke up, and Seamus and I got together and discussed some issues. We believe that the wizarding world is improving, and they are becoming more progressive."
Hermione smiled at him, "I'm happy for you both. After all the shite we've gone through, you deserve happiness."
Dean looked at Hermione, "So do you."
Hermione shrugged as she motioned for another cocktail, "I'll find it eventually."
*~*~* February 24, 2008 *~*~*
"When did things start getting worse?" Luna asked.
Hermione ran her hand over her face, "It just snowballed for me. I honestly didn't think I had a problem until the week of Ron's birthday."
*~*~* March 4, 2004 *~*~*
Hermione was lying in bed asleep when her covers were thrown off her body, and Ron shook her, "What the hell, Ron?!"
"Thank Merlin. What the hell, Hermione?" Ron asked.
"Fuck Ron, not so loud," Hermione groaned as she reached over to her bedside table and opened the drawer, and reached in, blindly feeling for the little bottle that should be there, "What the fuck?"
Blurry-eyed, Hermione pushed herself up and looked at her bedside table for the little potion bottle that should be there. "Where the hell is my potion?"
"What potion?" Ron asked.
"I have a headache. Thank you very much," Hermione stated as she sat up and nearly fell over from the nausea. "It's too early for this."
"Hermione, it's a quarter after noon," Ron told her.
Hermione looked at him, "No, it's not."
"Yes, it is. I went to the Ministry for our weekly lunch, and Theo Nott said you never showed up for work today. Suppose they hadn't heard from you by one. In that case, someone was going to come check on you," Ron told her as he sent his patronus off to Theo, saying that she was okay with telling her department that she wouldn't be in for the rest of the day.
Hermione stood up and nearly fell over, "You can't call me off." Hermione stated as she braced herself, "I think I'm going to be sick."
Ron grabbed her hair quickly as Hermione dove for her rubbish can to get sick.
Hermione groaned, "I must have eaten something bad at the bar last night."
"Hermione, you went to the bar last night again?" Ron asked, concerned.
"I can enjoy a drink or two with my friends," Hermione told him as she sat on her bed.
"Hermione, it's been more than a drink or two lately," Ron told her, "At the Leaky for my birthday, it was at least four."
Hermione closed her eyes and laid back on her bed, "Leave me alone, Ron. If you won't leave me alone, at least get me a hangover potion from the loo."
"No, I don't. Hermione, I know you said that the bond was causing you issues and pain, but why have you been drinking so much?" Ron asked, sitting next to her.
Hermione covered her face with her forearm as tears started streaming from her eyes, "I hurt all over, Ron. Then I have a drink, and I don't. I'm just so tired."
Ron rubbed her back, "How much have you been drinking?"
"Not a lot, really," Hermione told him, "Just some wine with dinner and when I go out. Pain potions are addictive, and alcohol seems to help. I don't drink when I have Teddy."
"Can you do something for me?" Ron asked, "Can you try to go a week without any alcohol and see how you feel? For me?"
Hermione rubbed her hand over her face, "Fine, but I don't have a problem, Ron."
*~*~* February 24, 2008 *~*~*
Hermione looked at Luna as she took her hand, "But did you?" Luna asked.
Hermione nodded, "I was a functioning alcoholic. I kept it quiet. I told Andromeda to keep Teddy until Friday night because I was hungover and felt like shite. I was fine for the weekend because I had Teddy to distract me. It was a headache, a bad one, sick to my stomach and having trouble sleeping, but I could function." Hermione sighed, "The aches and fever started on Sunday, though. Harry called us on Sunday."
*~*~* March 7, 2004 *~*~*
Hermione was sitting in the quiet kitchen after Kingsley had come to pick Teddy up, gripping her mug of tea that had long since gone cold.
Stepping through the floo, Teddy ran to Kingsley as he appeared in their sitting room, "Kings!"
"Hey, squirt, go get your stuff," Kingsley stated as Teddy ran off. He looked at Hermione, "Feeling better?"
"I've been better," Hermione said, sitting on the couch.
"You've looked better. Take tomorrow off if you need to," Kingsley stated, "If it doesn't get better tomorrow, get checked."
Hermione just nodded as Teddy returned to the sitting room with his bag and hugged her, "Love you, Mumma. Call you tomorrow."
"Love you too," Hermione told him as Kingsley took his hand.
"I'm serious, Hermione. Just be careful," Kingsley told her as they flooed away.
As much as she didn't want to admit it, she was experiencing symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. It was harder than she expected. Closing her eyes as she yawned, she jumped when her mobile phone rang.
Pushing herself up with a groan, she grabbed her phone, seeing Harry's name on the screen.
"Hi, Harry," Hermione answered, forcing cheerfulness into her voice.
"Hey, Hermione. How is everything?" Harry asked, his voice acting like a soothing potion over her.
Hermione attempted to focus, but her head was foggy, "I'm okay. Just tired." Curling up on the couch with a blanket, she asked, "How was training this week?"
"I'm getting my ass kicked," Harry joked with a laugh, "But it's over this week. Josh invited me down there for the weekend."
"That's great. Give them my love," Hermione said, waving her hand towards the window as the sun showed into the house, causing her head to flare. Groaning when the curtain barely moved, she got up and closed it.
Her vision swam slightly as she crashed back onto the couch.
"It will be great. They want to take me to the beach. It will be a nice break before my CIA training starts," Harry stated.
"Sounds wonderful," Hermione said, itching her skin, which seemed to be crawling. "How are you feeling?"
Harry laughed through the line, "Exhausted, honestly. Purely exhausted. They've got us running and working out over three hours a day. I did a 26K on Friday with no issues. I've put on about ten pounds of muscle, which is insane. I'm covered in bruises and aches, but I'm learning so much to help the Auror teams and about my body, too."
Hermione smiled faintly, moving her phone to the other ear. Her hand started to shake harder, "That's incredible. I'm so proud of you."
Harry was silent for a moment, "I miss you and Teddy, though," He said, softening, "And Ron and Ginny too, of course. I can't wait to be home, but I'm glad I came."
"We miss you too," Hermione said, trying not to cry. Taking a deep breath to steady herself, "Teddy has been drawing pictures and writing to you daily. Let me know if you can get mail, and I'll send them to you."
"I will be able to receive mail at camp. I'll let you know the address," Harry said, "You alright? You sound off."
Hermione's already racing heart picked up speed. She couldn't let him know. "I'm just a bit overwhelmed with everything at work and here. I'm managing with Ron's help. Don't worry about me."
"You promise me, if anything was wrong, you'd tell me. Training or no training, I'd come home if you need me," Harry told her.
"I know, Harry. Just focus on your training. We will be here waiting for you to return," Hermione told him.
"Okay," Harry said quietly, "I miss you. Take care of yourself."
A tear rolled down her eye, "Be safe, Harry."
Hermione hung up and threw her phone aside as she lay on the couch sobbing, "Please be careful, Harry."
The couch shifted as someone sat down next to her and rubbed her back, "It's going to be okay," Ron's gentle voice reminded her.
*~*~* February 24, 2008 *~*~*
"How long did it last?"
Hermione inhaled, "The worst of it? A week or two. It's a bit of a blur. I started going over to Mum's, and we would jog in the evenings. It helped clear my head. When I didn't have Teddy, I'd go to the Ministry gym to work out. It helped clear my head, and I'd be exhausted when I went home. I slept better, and I started feeling great by April." Hermione looked at Luna, "With magical blood, it's harder to become dependent on alcohol, but it's still possible. Since then, I've learned that it is in my blood to become dependent on substances and mental health issues. I won't get ahead of myself in the continuity for your writing's sake. Ron was a huge help, and Holly. She and Swift kept an eye on me. There were moments where I'd falter and bring some wine home or find Ron's Firewhiskey. Suddenly, Holly hugged me and talked about how I was feeling. Having Harmony there helped, too."
*~*~* March 21, 2004 *~*~*
Hermione was sitting with Harmony, reviewing her letters, when Swift came in the room with a letter.
"A bird just dropped this off for you," Swift told her, handing it to her.
"Thank you, Swift," Hermione said as she opened it and smiled, "It's from Harry."
"What's it say?" Harmony asked.
"Dear Hermione, I assume you will share this with Ron, Teddy, and maybe Harmony. When you receive this, I hope you are sitting on the couch or at the kitchen table with Teddy or Harmony, working on their schoolwork or letters. When I am homesick, that is what I imagine. I know I've called, but the words sometimes don't come out right when I hear your voice. I miss you all so much. The longing for home is sometimes too much to bear.
I felt like there was something that you didn't want to say, that you were keeping from me. Maybe something was wrong. Please, don't shut me out. If I could, I would ring you every night. It would help the homesickness.
Teddy and Harmony, I miss you both so much. The other trainees here have children who tell me stories about funny things they do. I tell them all stories of you. My godson and my adopted daughter are what I tell them to avoid confusion. You may be so far away, but I still think of you often and miss you just as much. Listen to Hermione, be good. I will see you both soon.
Ron, miss you, mate. Sorry, we keep missing each other on phone calls. One of the men here saw me pull out one of the products you sent with me and raved about the store in New York. You are starting to have a following here as well.
Hermione, I sent this book I found here on animal law in America. I figured that you could find something beneficial in it. If not, it would be a great read for you.
Sending my love from the US, Harry." Hermione read to her.
"Adopted daughter?" Harmony asked.
"Well honey, you were our daughter for some time at Hogwarts, and we love you so much," Hermione told her.
Harmony smiled as she crawled into Hermione's lap, "I'm glad you are feeling better."
Hermione hugged her close, "Me too."
*~*~* April 5, 2004 *~*~*
She was sitting at her desk at the Ministry, working on a draft for a bill to protect centaur's land and expand their land rights towards mid-afternoon. A new wizarding community was popping up just north of Wales, trying to encroach on the protected Centaur lands. Thankfully, there were no conflicts, but after talking to both parties, she sensed it was imminent.
A knock on her door made her look up as Opal, her assistant, popped her head in, "Yes, Opal?"
"The Minister would like to see you in his office," Opal stated.
Putting her pen down, Hermione pushed her chair back and grabbed her Ministry robes, "Any idea what this is about?"
Opal shook her head as she handed Hermione the note, saying that he wanted to see her at her convenience and that it was not an emergency. Setting the note on her desk, she put her robe on and pulled her hair out from under the collar, "I'll be upstairs then if you need me. Could you please have one of the interns look in the archives for anything about centaurs and their lands in the last 50 years?"
Opal nodded as Hermione's heels clicked on the tile floor. She walked past her to head towards the lifts.
Hermione was surprised to meet Theo inside the lift, "Hello Theo."
Theo looked at her, "Hermione, we must go clothes shopping for you. Even under those robes, I can tell your clothing is too baggy. You have a wonderful figure. There is no need to hide it."
Hermione blushed, "Quit it, Theo. It's just my body adjusting to working out again."
"Just saying, Hermione, I've walked past the gym. You may be wearing one of Potter or Weasley's old shirts, but you are looking fit," Theo said as the lift stopped.
"Level 9 Department of Mysteries"
The lift opened, and Theo stepped out, "Just saying." Theo pulled his hood up, and his face was suddenly obscured, "Bye, Granger."
Hermione gasped, "Theo!" she yelled as the gate closed and the lift started moving.
Had she been so lost in herself that she hadn't realized that Theo had switched jobs. That Theo was now an unspeakable?
"Fuck," Hermione swore out loud as the lift stopped at the Atrium, and when people started to board, Hermione mashed her hand down on the number one to go up to Kingsley's office.
Once finally reaching the Minister's office floor, Hermione stepped onto the plush purple carpet. She greeted his secretary, who motioned for her to head down the hall.
Knocking on the door, she waited for Kingsley to tell her to enter.
"Come on in, Hermione."
Walking inside, she smiled, "Morning, Kingsley."
"I must say, Hermione," Kingsley said as he sat back, "I'm not sure what you are doing, but whatever you are. It works for you. You look better than you have in a long while."
Hermione gave him a small smile, "Thank you. I'm trying to better myself. It never affected me here at work, but Ron has helped me realize that I had a drinking problem."
Kingsley sat back, "Really?"
Hermione nodded, "It was worse than even I imagined. I didn't realize how dependent I was becoming on alcohol. With Ron's help, I haven't had a drop of alcohol since last month. It will be a work in progress because I still want it, but I think of Teddy and Harmony now. That one day that I didn't show up to work? I was hungover and overslept. It's getting better, thankfully."
"I'm glad to hear it. I have a proposition for you," Kingsley motioned for her to have a seat, "You've been working very hard, but I want you to spread your wings a bit. I learned of a North American Animal Law Conference. It is only three days. Thursday the 15th, Friday the 16th, and Saturday the 17th, but your counterparts in MACUSA would love to meet you before the Welcome Reception on the 15th."
"How long would I need to go for?" Hermione asked.
Kingsley handed her the itinerary, "You'd leave next Tuesday since it's Easter Monday, and I can't approve travel until Tuesday. I figured you'd want a day to explore before the conference starts. You don't have to be back here until Monday. That gives you part of Saturday and part of Sunday to show Teddy around."
Hermione looked at him, surprised, "Teddy? I can take Teddy?!"
Kingsley smiled, "You can, Andromeda and I talked. We figured that he would enjoy it. MACUSA has a daycare that you can drop him off at while you are there."
Hermione jumped up, "Thank you, Mr. Minister.
Kingsley stared at her, "Hermione, what did I tell you? Even though I am technically your boss, call me Kingsley unless we are in a meeting."
Hermione smiled, "Fine, thanks, Kingsley."
"Enjoy yourself," Kingsley told her as she walked out the door.
*~*~* April 17, 2004 *~*~*
After going to the closing address of the Law Conference, Hermione and the Head of the Body for Protection of Magical Species, Taylor Reynolds, walked together from their cab to the main entrance of MACUSA's headquarters.
"Hey Larry," Taylor said as the doorman opened the door for them, "Have you ever been here before?"
"Twice, but only to the Portkey offices," Hermione stated as they entered the Grand Hall. Walking to the stairs they walked up them and over to the elevators.
Hermione looked around to see the Salem Witch Trials memorial, which was still there. Now, there was a new memorial since she had been there last. This one is a memorial to the wizards and witches killed during September 11th. The elevator opened, and they entered it. Taylor hit the third-floor button.
"Did you find the Cultural and Economic Obstacles to Animal Rights as stimulating as I did?" Taylor asked as they passed the second floor.
"I… whoa," Hermione said as her body tingled. Holding up her hand, her magic was actually dancing across her fingertips.
"What is making your magic react like that?" Taylor asked, concerned as they reached the third floor where her department was located.
"I don't know. What is on the second floor?" Hermione asked as they got off their elevator.
"All the Auror departments are on the second floor. Are you magic sensitive?" Taylor asked, walking her down to her office.
"I don't think so," Hermione stated as she sat down in the chair in Taylor's office as Taylor sat down at her desk. "My friend Luna is, though."
Taylor opened her laptop, "Let me find that paper I was talking about, and I'll print it out for you."
Hermione tried not to gasp out loud as she felt a surge of power, and the water in the glass on Taylor's desk vibrated. Taylor stared at it, "The Aurors must be dueling today. We rarely feel it up here."
Closing her eyes, Hermione breathed in, feeling the magic around her. A rise in the electricity in the air around her made the hairs on her arms stand up straight. Opening her eyes, she looked at Taylor, "Move!" as she dove towards the wall away from Taylor's desk. Taylor barely moved away when a bolt of lightning crashed through the floor of her office to the ceiling above. The light from it blinded her, but just before she had to look away, she saw what looked like a patronus streaking up it as if riding a wave.
Taylor looked at the floor in disbelief as her office returned to normal, albeit now with a scorch mark on the floor and ceiling, "Shit, that was a powerful spell."
Hermione first saw the blue of a hoof through the ceiling, then another appeared before she saw the body and then the antlers.
"A Patronus?" Taylor asked as it drifted to the floor.
Hermione stood up and looked into the eyes of the deer in front of her, "Prongs?!" She whispered as she reached out and touched it. Suddenly, her magic sang beneath her skin as she ran her hand down from its head to its neck, then back. It nuzzled her hand, "You are Prongs. What are you doing here in New York?"
The door to Taylor's office flew open, and Hermione turned, erecting a shield in front of her and Taylor. Prongs stood at her defense, antlers out in protection.
"Wands down, wands down! We come in peace. Sorry, we were doing dueling training, and one of the Aurors put too much power into his spell. Everyone okay?"
Hermione looked at Taylor, who nodded.
"Scared the shit out of us, Kennedy," Taylor stated as Hermione let her shield drop.
"Wait, isn't that your patronus?"
Hermione's eyes met the emerald ones coming through the door, and her wand dropped to the floor.
"Hermione?!" Harry stated in disbelief as he pushed his way into the room, and Hermione threw her arms around his neck before she could even process that he was in front of her.
"What are you doing here?" Hermione and Harry asked at the same time.
"Hold up, you know each other?" Taylor asked.
Hermione let go of Harry and smiled, looking up at him, "This is my best friend, Harry. I thought you were training with the CIA this week."
"They gave us a week off for Easter," Harry said as he hugged her, "What are YOU doing here?"
"Kingsley sent me here for an animal rights conference," Hermione told him, "Did you really try Voldemort's lightning spell?"
Harry laughed, "I tried seeing if it would charge my patronus to get a further distance. I tried to send it to you."
Hermione grinned, "It found me and nearly fried Taylor's floor." Hermione looked him over and noticed that Harry had thick arms for the first time. He had added more than weight. He had added muscle. Not enough to be bulky, but enough to add thickness to his arms and body, "You look good."
Harry frowned, "Why are you so skinny?"
Hermione rolled her eyes as Taylor snorted, "I'm running again. How long are you in New York?"
"Until Monday, how long are you here?" Harry asked.
"Teddy will be so excited. We are here through tomorrow," Hermione told him.
"Teddy is here?" Harry asked as he looked at the man Taylor called Kennedy, "Since we were just showing off spells. I'm going to go head out. I want to see my godson." Turning to Hermione, "Where is he?"
Hermione grinned, "Downstairs in the daycare here."
"I'll meet you down there," Harry said as he ran out of the office.
Kennedy looked at Hermione, "Are you Harry's fiancée? I thought you played Quidditch."
"No, I'm just his best friend," Hermione told him as she turned to Taylor, "You have my number."
"I'll have an intern bring the report to the daycare," Taylor told her.
"Thanks," Hermione said as she left the office and went to the daycare. Walking inside, she showed her ID, "I'm here to pick up Teddy Lupin."
The witch checked her ID, then picked up a Walkie Talkie, "Teddy Lupin to the front with all his stuff."
Hermione nodded to the witch, then sat on the bench. The door opened, and Harry walked in. "Where is he?"
"Calm down, I can practically feel your magic from here. Sit down," Hermione told him as she pulled him down in the chair next to her, "The daycare is warded. They'll bring him out to us."
Harry wrapped his arm around her, "Merlin, I missed you both."
"We missed you too. It's been weird without you," Hermione told him as she moved slightly away, trying to give them some space.
"Oh, sorry, I probably stink," Harry said, sniffing himself.
"No, you smell like yourself and that damn body spray of yours," Hermione told him.
Harry leaned back with a grin, "I have a smell? What do I smell like?"
"Wood polish, musk of your shampoo, and… something sweet like treacle tart," Hermione told him.
Harry's laugh dropped off his face as the door opened. Teddy walked out with his bag, rubbing his eyes, and stopped when he saw Harry.
"DADDY!"
Harry grabbed him with an "oomph" as Teddy barreled into him, "Oh, Teddy Bear, I've missed you so much."
After an afternoon together at Luna Park at Coney Island, Teddy had to be carried into the hotel room that night after passing out on the subway when coming back to the hotel.
"He had so much fun," Hermione told him as Harry sat him on the double bed where his suitcase was.
Harry looked at her, "I had a great time today, Hermione."
"Me too," Hermione told him with a smile.
Harry stood up from Teddy's bed, "Want to order some room service? A bottle of wine and some food?"
"No on the wine," Hermione told him as she sat on her bed, "If you want food, you can order some."
Harry froze and looked at her, "No wine? Wait, why?"
Hermione patted the bed next to her, "We need to talk."
Harry sat down slowly next to her, "What's wrong? You aren't sick, are you? You've lost weight, and now you aren't drinking wine? You love a glass of wine to end the night."
"The problem is Harry, somewhere, and at some time it became two glasses, then three," Hermione sighed, "After you left, I got so drunk one day I slept until afternoon and didn't wake until Ron came to the house to wake me up because he thought something was wrong. He helped me realize that I had a problem, and I've been alcohol-free since March 3rd. It was a hard week or so, and I went through withdrawals. I didn't realize how dependent I was becoming."
Harry stood up, "Shit, Hermione. Why didn't you call me and tell me? I would have come home to help you."
"And that's why I didn't," Hermione told him, "You needed to be here, and I needed to figure it out on my own. Harry, now that I realize it, I used alcohol as a crutch, even back at Hogwarts. When we returned to Hogwarts, I couldn't drink there, but I did at the Three Broomsticks and Leaky. Never too much, but it helped me relax. I lost track of when getting tipsy went from two glasses to three or more. I have a problem, Harry, and I'll admit it. I feel so much better now, a month later."
Harry sat down next to her, "I didn't know."
Hermione patted his hand, "I didn't know myself until Ron made me open my eyes. In the future, maybe I'll have a drink or two, but my days of getting drunk are over. You are free to order food thought."
"No, I'm not actually hungry. When do you leave in the morning?" Harry asked.
"Noon after we check out here," Hermione told him.
Harry pulled down her comforter, and Hermione stopped him, "What?"
"Harry, you are engaged to Ginny. I don't feel comfortable sleeping in the same bed anymore," Hermione told him.
"Oh, no problem. I'll just sleep in Teddy's bed," Harry told her as he got up.
"I just don't want to upset Ginny," Hermione told him.
"No, no… I totally get it, and you are right," Harry told her as he crawled into bed with Teddy and yawned.
"Long night last night?" Hermione asked as Harry took his pants off under the covers and set them on the foot of the bed.
"No, not really. Something about this training is that I'm not sleeping well. The nightmares are back and more intense," Harry told her as he settled in.
"Well, soon you will be back, and you'll have Ginny to cuddle with to help you sleep," Hermione told him as she started preparing her stuff for bed.
"Oh, I've never stayed with Ginny all night. I have nightmares, and it wakes her up, so she ends up leaving to go home," Harry explained as he sighed, "We've yet to successfully make it through a night together."
Hermione paused with her gathered clothes, "Harry, you are marrying her in less than a year, and you can't sleep together in the same bed all night?!"
Harry looked at her, "What do you mean marrying her in less than a year? Hermione, is Ginny telling everyone about our wedding date already?"
"Well, yeah, at least Ron and I. She told us February 13th," Hermione told him, "Did you two not discuss it?"
"No, we did, but not enough for it to be official and invitations to be sent out or anything," Harry told her as he took his glasses off, setting them on the bedside table.
"No, no invitations. She told us because we are in the wedding party," Hermione told him as she looked at him, "Harry, are you having second thoughts?"
Harry sighed as he fluffed his pillow, "No… no, I just need to talk to her about some things to get on the same page. Probably doesn't help that we play phone tag so much."
"Yes, you do," Hermione told him as she went into the bathroom to get ready for bed. After washing her face, brushing her teeth, and putting her hair up, she came out of the bathroom to hear a chorus of snores. Teddy had rolled over to lay on Harry's chest, and Harry was already fast asleep.
Kissing both of their foreheads, she climbed into her bed and, with the humming of her magic feeling his, fell fast asleep.
*~*~* February 24, 2008 *~*~*
"So you could feel his magic?" Luna asked.
Hermione nodded, "I always could thinking back on it. After years of research, I've learned I'm attuned to magic around me, especially his magic. Harry, on the other hand, love him dearly, is not."
"Oh, I started to recognize your magic."
Hermione looked back at him, "You did? When?"
Harry pushed off the door frame, "Not exactly sure when, but when I was in New York, and we were dueling, I felt this familiarity. Like your magic was hugging me, and all I thought of was that it was you somehow. When I gathered my magic to cast the lightning spell with Prongs, I could sense you somehow. It confused me because you weren't there for all I knew. That's why I sent Prongs to you. Suddenly, you were, and I wondered why I could sense your magic. I was busy, but I started doing my own research." Harry sat down next to her and took her hand.
Hermione looked at him, "Harry, did you know about our bond back then?"
"No, not back then. But it made me question things," Harry told her as he put his arm around her, "Go ahead, continue."
*~*~* May 1, 2004 *~*~*
Walking in front of the mirror in her bedroom, Hermione sighed as she turned back and forth. Looking at the man in the reflection behind her, she asked, "It's not too much, is it?"
"Hermione, you have the body. Flaunt it and make all those bitches jealous," Theo told her as she turned around, "Now come on, Cinderella, it's time for the ball."
Looking back at the mirror, Hermione took Theo's arm as they walked down the stairs together. Ron stood near the floo in the sitting room, looking handsome in his dress robes.
"Weasley… you look dashing," Theo stated, "Didn't think you could pull it off."
Hermione laughed as Ron's ears turned red, "Theo, your flirting has no use with Ron. Is your date meeting us there?"
Ron shrugged, "Don't have one."
"Well, I guess I am one lucky witch being on the arm of two eligible bachelors," Hermione stated as she slipped her heels on, cast a cushioning charm, then stood back up, "I'm ready when you both are."
Once arriving, the gala was already in full swing. There were glittering decorations, lively music, and conversation filling the air. After over five years, Hermione was glad that while the final battle victims were still being recognized against the back wall, the wizarding world was finally moving on from the war. All donations and part of tonight's plate price were being donated to the charity 'Wands for Warriors,' which supported magical war veterans, victims, and their families. The night would soon start with a tribute to those who fell during the final battle and the second and first wizarding wars. Once dinner started, magical veterans would showcase their talents while everyone ate before the ball began.
Hermione kissed Ron and Theo's cheeks before venturing to greet familiar faces in attendance and network for the Ministry. She hoped to gain sponsors for her bill for the Centaurs tonight, which may help with the Wizengamot.
After dinner, Ron held his hand out to her, "Could I have this dance?"
Taking his hand in hers, they danced together for several songs. Ron was still awkward, always stepping on her toes quite often. Hermione was thankful that despite their tried relationship, she still had him for laughs and companionship.
A slower song began to play, and Ron smiled, looking over her shoulder.
"May I cut in?" A voice interrupted.
Hermione turned around to see Harry standing behind her, looking handsome and filling his robes with the added muscle he had put on. What got her the most was that he wore no glasses.
Ron stepped aside, grinning, "All you mate. Glad to have you home."
Harry took Hermione's hand and gently pulled her into his arms, "You look amazing tonight, Hermione."
As Harry's hand met the bare skin of her back, Hermione tried not to gasp, "It's so good to see you, Harry. Did you get to come home early? Where are your glasses?"
"No, Kingsley wanted me here for tonight. There was a holdup in the Portkey office, or I would have been on time," Harry stated as they danced in comfortable silence, "And to answer your question, I tried contacts, and I've gotten to enjoy not having to worry about my glasses in battle. Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon would never have paid for them back then, but it would have been nice."
Eventually, Harry was pulled away to talk to others, and Hermione found herself dancing with several other wizards. Ron, Theo, George, and even Percy, who made a rare appearance, danced with her. Of course, Percy was talking all about his new role at the Ministry. Try as she might, Hermione could not remember what department he was speaking about. Her eyes followed Harry instead.
As the gala winded down, Harry walked over to Hermione, "Ready to head home?"
With a nod, she waved at Theo, who was talking to Blaise and Daphne. Ron had left with George and Percy earlier to go out for a drink. After making it to the lobby, Harry took her hand, and they disapparated back to their house.
After going to their rooms, Hermione quickly changed into her pajamas as Hope played around her feet. She went downstairs to wash her face, removed the bobby pins, and kept her hair up.
Returning to the sitting room, she found Harry lounging on the couch, looking relaxed, watching television with Crookshanks on his lap.
"Come here, I made some hot cocoa," He told her, patting the spot beside him.
Sitting down, Hermione sighed in relief as she put her feet up, a mug of cocoa in hand, "Thank you, Harry. Tell me about what the CIA has you doing."
Harry told her about their drills and the practices he wanted Robards to institute with the Auror program. Grabbing her feet as she flexed them, Harry started massaging her aching feet.
"That feels amazing," Hermione stated as he hit a particularly tense spot in her arch.
Moaning, Hermione threw her head back, "Right there."
Her eyes fluttered shut as Harry moved up to her legs just as the floo lit up, and Ginny stepped through, eyes widening in surprise as she saw Harry and Hermione on the couch.
"Harry! When did you get home?" Ginny asked, throwing herself on the couch, making Hermione move her legs from Harry's lap as Harry caught Ginny.
"It was a last-minute thing, Ginny. Kingsley had me sent up today for the gala," Harry said as Ginny kissed his face, and then they kissed.
"I was going to ask Hermione to come over to look over stuff with me for the wedding, but come with me. I want to show you what I've been working on," Ginny said as she grabbed his hand and stood up.
Harry glanced back at Hermione, "We were watching a show," Harry told Ginny.
Hermione forced a smile, "I'm heading to bed anyway. When do you have to head back?"
"Tuesday," He told her, "I'll see you tomorrow? We can go get Teddy in the morning."
Hermione nodded as Ginny pulled him towards the fireplace. Ginny glanced back at her with a sharp glare just before they disappeared in a burst of green flames, whisking them away to the Harpies' apartments.
*~*~* February 24, 2008 *~*~*
"So Ginny was suspicious of you two?" Luna asked.
Harry flinched, "That's a word for it. I had to talk her out of uninviting Hermione multiple times between then and the wedding. Ginny isn't stupid. She was seeing what I was too blind to see."
"In fact, Ginny suddenly made it her personal goal to find me a date for their wedding," Hermione told Luna.
Harry snorted as he got up, "And that went well. It should have been my first clue. I'm going to go make dinner. Luna, will you be joining us?"
Luna smiled, "No, I think after Hermione finishes this last part, I will head home to my boys."
*~*~* May 22, 2004 *~*~*
One thing was for sure, Hermione thought. Swearing off alcohol and taking up running again had helped her figure. The black and white dress she purchased for the wedding was form-fitting and hugged her curves. Today, Katie Bell and Terry Boot were getting married at Kensington Gardens. With the blooming flowers, it was bound to be a beautiful event, and thankfully, the weather looked great. She was feeling slightly nervous, though, not about the event but about her date.
Ginny and George had set her up with Lee Jordan for the evening. She had always liked Lee but was not sure if there was a potential for anything beyond friendship despite Ginny's hopes that they would be able to attend another wedding that would happen in 267 days.
The doorbell ringing downstairs had her picking up her dress and walking down them as Ron opened the door.
"Hey Lee, come on inside," Ron said as Lee walked inside and saw Hermione.
"Damn, Granger, you clean up nicely. Who knew under those robes you had that body," Lee said, making Ron groan.
"Not smart, Lee. You two have fun. Teddy and I are just going to play some video games," Ron told her.
Lee held his hand out for Hermione, "Ready?"
Taking his hand, they returned to the backyard and disappeared to Kensington Gardens. Getting a program, they walked to their seats next to Angelina and George.
Angelina elbowed Hermione, "You came with Lee?!"
"George and Ginny set us up," Hermione whispered, looking at Angelina, who was rubbing her belly. She was due within the month.
The ceremony was beautiful as Katie and Terry exchanged vows in a traditional ceremony rather than a bonding one. Angelina and Hermione found themselves shushing George and Lee the entire time as they whispered and chuckled about new product ideas that could help individuals in attendance. Unfortunately, most were for rude reasons over helpful.
Once the ceremony concluded, everyone moved to a reception area where a tent was set up. The atmosphere was joyful, with their family and friends celebrating the newlyweds. Hermione was catching up with Penelope Clearwater while Lee's antics continued as he drank his second Firewhiskey.
At dinner, he made jokes that were out of place for the occasion. Hermione talked more to Angelina about their baby's nursery than Lee. After the dance floor was opened, guests started going onto it when suddenly the punch bowl exploded. Turning to Lee, who was laughing, he quickly stopped at the look on her face. Thankfully, he was on his best behaviour for the rest of the evening.
Not soon enough for Hermione, Lee finally escorted her home as the reception drew to a close. The tension between them was obvious as they reached her front door.
Clearing her throat, she looked at Lee, "Thank you for taking me tonight, Lee," She stated, "I appreciate it, but I know Ginny and George were eager for us to work out, but our personal goals and outlooks do not align."
Lee raised an eyebrow as a smirk grew on his lips, "What a Hermione Granger way of breaking up with someone. You've always been a bit of a stick in the mud. I didn't figure we'd work out."
Hermione swallowed hard at the insult, "I'm sorry you feel that way. I just guess we are looking for different things."
Lee shrugged, "No hard feelings. Goodnight, Hermione."
As she closed the door behind her, Hermione sighed, leaning against it momentarily.
"Didn't work out?" Ron asked with a grin.
Hermione stared at him as she pushed off the door, "What do you think? He was too immature. It was like I was dating George!"
Ron laughed, "And you couldn't even drink."
"Nope, I was good. How was Teddy?" Hermione asked, taking her shoes off and then heading towards the stairs.
"He kicked my arse at Donkey Kong. Bragged about it the entire time. The kid is going to be ruthless," Ron told her with a smile, "He's already asleep upstairs."
Hermione nodded as she climbed the stairs and walked to Teddy's room to check on him. Setting her shoes on the floor, she tiptoed into the room. Ron had not turned on his sound machine, so she turned it on and made sure his nightlight was on in case he woke up in the middle of the night.
Kneeling beside his bed, she watched his eyes fluttering beneath his eyelids as he dreamed. Tucking him in, she kissed his forehead and left his bedroom quietly, shutting the door behind her.
a/n: First off, two new tidbits from my Tumblr the people may not have seen ( siriuslyprincesssarah) 1) I now have a spotify playlist with the inspiration songs for this fic. Search for it on Spotify: Enchanted Fanfiction Playlist or its linked on my Tumblr. 2) We have a countdown! ALSO BIG NEWS! The father reveal is on the horizon. Both Hermione's and the baby's. If all goes to my plan, Hermione's father will be revealed in eight more chapters, and the baby's father in nine. That is if the story doesn't run away from me again… but it has a tendency to do that. I'm thinking this story will be around 45 to 50 chapters, then after that probably some short stories within the universe or a continuation story.
Finally, while yes, despite many people's concerns, Snow on the Beach will be a Dramione story in this universe that will start next week. NO, you do not need to read it. Yes, their romance will not be within this story. It will be an eight-part story that will be posted over five weeks. The chapters that coincide with the events in Enchanted will be posted on the same week, but again, you do not need to read it if you choose not to.
Anyways thank you always for reading and sticking around, I know many are unhappy with the Dramione aspect, but I have my reasons. If you want to skip over even the referenced chapters of events of Dramione chapter 33 of Enchanted is the first chapter after the breakup.
Thank you for the new followers recently: ValescaV, stillcanon, the-elusive-snitch, peediepanda, creid2010, , Booknerd915, thatoneguy172402, rafael20081904, blossommarie, nicklouey17, muzzarae, and RoriVi!
Creid2010 and HudyLeak613 thank you for the reviews
Kerrion: This is the story of Hermione and Harry growing to be the people that they need to be. See my note above, the father will be revealed soon and Harry and Hermione will get together soon as well. Harry and Ginny will be over in two chapters.
Preview of Chapter 29- Love Story (2004)
"Do you know what my worst fear is? My worst fear is not being loved," Hermione confessed as she snorted into her glass and took a drink. "I don't know how a boggart would show that."
"What do you mean?" Luna asked.
"I don't know. I just have always felt that I'd rather protect my heart. If I leave them alone and distance myself, I'm not the one left behind. They are. It protects my heart. I'd rather be the one that leaves and makes that choice," Hermione stated as she held up her invitation, "With this, he is leaving ME behind." Throwing it to the bar, Hermione finished her drink, "I feel disposable. Second best, second when needed, or never needed at all."
Luna's face dropped, "That's not true."
