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.
A/n2: So I am American, and I researched into the English education system. I could be totally off, if so, sorry. I blame Google lol
I know now, just quite how
My life and love might still go on
In your heart, in your mind
I'll stay with you for all of time
~ Wherever You Will Go by the Calling
*~*~* April 1, 1999 *~*~*
Harry woke up early in the morning of the last day of the Child Rearing Project and looked on the other side of the bed to see it was empty. Hermione and Harry had stayed up late the night before with Harmony, watching her as she slept as they studied. Today was the day Harmony would be going back to her Elf family. The appearance spell would end during class, and she would leave with her Elven family.
Sitting up, he ran his hands through his hair, scratching his scalp, and grabbed his glasses off his bedside table. He got up and went in search of Harmony and Hermione. It was a short search when he found them in the common room. Hermione was sitting on the floor playing with Harmony. She had also taken the time this morning to bathe her because her hair was wet and combed as straight as possible. Hermione looked up at him and gave him a sad smile.
"Did you sleep at all?" Harry asked as he walked over and sat next to them.
"Not well," Hermione admitted as Harmony crawled over and climbed into Harry's lap, "Can we just hide up here?"
"If only," Harry said as he kissed Harmony's head, "Let's just stay here for breakfast."
Hermione pulled her knees to her chest, "This is the first day I want to skip classes. Would Flitwick be okay with us bringing her instead of sending her to daycare?"
"We could get away with Charms, but you have Arithmancy, and then we have double DADA. There is no way she should be there with dueling," Harry told her.
"I'm not hungry," Hermione told him.
Harry swallowed hard, "Hermione, you need to eat. Winky!"
Winky appeared, "Yes, Master Potter, sir?"
"Could you bring us our breakfasts up here today?" Harry asked.
"Of course, sir," Winky said as she disappeared.
Slowly as possible, Hermione and Harry went to the Life Studies classroom after having lunch with Harmony in their Head's common room.
Hermione swallowed hard as she saw everyone was already there, but their couch remained for them.
The room seemed even colder than usual as they sat on the couch.
Professor Noel stood up from her desk, "We have made it to the end of our project. Some of us will be glad that our elves can move on to their families, and others bonded with their babies to the point they don't want them to leave. Both emotions are normal. Remember, if you still wish to have your elf in the future, on April 1st of next year, you can go to the Department of Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures to be put on the list for your elf. The Elves will not be part of your homes until 2001, when they can be released from their families."
Hermione buried her face in Harmony's hair.
"We have the Elven families in the back room. We will call you back there to meet them and release them back to their parents." Professor Noel told them.
Swallowing hard, Hermione leaned on Harry as she waited for her name to be called.
"Granger," Professor Noel said as she opened the door.
Harry took Harmony and helped Hermione stand up. They entered the room and saw two house elves standing with Professor McGonagall.
"Harry, Hermione, I'd like you to meet Harmony's parents. Holly and Swift," Professor McGonagall introduced.
"Thank you for taking such great care of her," The Mother elf, Holly, said.
"It was our privilege," Harry told them.
"She loves carrots," Hermione squeaked out as she looked up at the ceiling, "She isn't a fan of avocados. She is so smart and loving. Thank you for letting us take care of her."
Holly walked over and took Hermione's hand, "No, thank you for taking care of her. We work in the castle and saw how well you cared for her."
Harry cleared his throat, "In the future, when she is available for a home. I'd like to extend the opportunity if you are willing for you both to come on to my family. I don't have a property yet, but I will be sure to have one for you all to stay together when the time does come."
Swift held his hand out to shake Harry's hand, "Sir, Dobby was right that you are a rare wizard. Thank you for helping us raise our daughter."
"We will miss her," Harry told him.
"Before you graduate, we will be sure to bring her by so you can see her," Holly told them.
Hermione kissed Harmony's head, "Goodbye, my sweet girl," Hermione said as tears started falling.
"Bye, Harmony," Harry said, kissing her head as he set her down in front of her parents.
Swift snapped his fingers, and before their eyes, Harmony got shorter. Her hair disappeared as she regained her real appearance. Holly picked her up, and Harmony reached for Harry, "Da!"
Hermione turned away and left the room. Wiping her eyes, she saw other students watching and ran out of the classroom. She didn't stop until she got to their common room and threw herself down onto the couch, sobbing.
A pair of arms pulled her into their lap, and Hermione sobbed into Harry's chest.
"I know," Harry said, rubbing her back, "This was horrible for them to do to us."
"I'm just going to miss her so much," Hermione told him.
"Me too," Harry said as a tear fell down his cheek onto her hair, "I won't go to the Burrow. I'll stay here."
"No, no… go. Be with Ginny. I need to stay here and study anyway," Hermione told him as she struggled to breathe.
Harry held her as her sobs finally slowed, then pulled back her hair to see that she had cried herself to sleep. Putting his arms underneath her, he picked her up and carried her into her room. Laying her down, he covered her and then sat at the end of her bed. Making sure that she was settled in, Harry walked out to the common room. Glancing at his parents' portrait, he walked over to it.
"I don't know how much you understood about Harmony, but she was part of a project. Today, she went back to her Elven family. For," Harry said as a lump caught in his throat, "For almost a month, I had a family. I knew what it was like to be part of a real family again. I want that."
Lily reached out to him within the painting, and Harry laid his hand against hers, "I just…never really had you guys, but I miss you so much. That's what kills me so much about Ginny. She doesn't want kids until we are in our 30s, and I want a family."
*~*~* April 2, 1999 *~*~*
Glancing at her watch, Hermione realized that it was nearly a quarter past seven in the evening, and she had not eaten all day. Looking down at her outfit, she was wearing one of Ron's old Weasley jumpers and a pair of Harry/Dudley's old tracksuit bottoms that she had to roll up multiple times. Hopefully, with it being at the end of dinner, she would not see anyone that cared. Getting up off the couch, she stepped over the many books surrounding her and looked at herself in the mirror.
"Oh dear, you should at least brush your hair," The mirror told her.
"Lost cause," Hermione replied, running her hand over her messy bun as she slid on her trainers and left for the Great Hall.
Upon arriving at the Great Hall, Hermione sat down as far as she could from anyone in her house. She grabbed a plate and put some fried sausages, veg, and mashed potatoes on her plate. After a few bites, she pushed her sausage pieces around her plate, lost in her thoughts between the GCSEs, A-Levels, and Harmony.
"It will all work out, Hermione," Luna said beside her, making Hermione jump, "I'm sorry. Did I scare you?"
Hermione dropped her fork and put her head into her hands, "I didn't even hear you sit down."
Luna set her hand on Hermione's elbow, "Are you okay?"
"No, I didn't realize how much I was going to miss her," Hermione told Luna, sadly choking back her tears.
"You will be a Mum, Hermione," Luna assured her.
Hermione looked up at her, "What?"
"I read your cards. You had the high priestess; you will have an unexpected pregnancy, but your cards say you will be happy about it," Luna told her.
Hermione wiped her eyes, "So not only am I fertile, I'm going to have an unexpected pregnancy?"
"You will be extremely happy about it. Your whole life will fall into place afterward," Luna assured her.
Hermione shook her head, "I'm not ready for that."
"Don't worry, it won't happen for some time. I will have children first," Luna stated, "My cards say twins."
"Twins?" Hermione asked, surprised.
"Again, with the person who will help me best grow, but I will lose him before I find my true love. He isn't ready for me yet," Luna told her, staring at the ceiling as it twinkled.
Hermione took a shaky breath, "I don't know how you do it, Luna."
Luna just stared at her.
"Not care, just be yourself. I feel this pressure everywhere I turn," Hermione admitted, "Not only from expectations but from the press. I'm getting away from England after graduation."
"You are?" Luna asked, surprised, "Where are you going?"
"The States. New York University has a program that is part Muggle and part Wizard," Hermione told her.
Luna's eyes were wider than Hermione had ever seen, "Can I come? Newt Scamander has a great magizoology program in New York. I want to become a Magizoologist."
Hermione bit her lip, "There is a lot of testing, Muggle testing to get you in. They will take our OWLs and NEWTs into account as well. Still, we have to go through Muggle testing too," Hermione said as she looked around and leaned forward, "I'm not sure Harry has told anyone yet. Still, he is going through the testing to get in."
"He's leaving?" Luna asked, surprised.
"The Press and the pressure are worse on him. He doesn't feel he deserves it," Hermione admitted, "But come on upstairs with me. We can come up with a plan for you similar to Harry's. It's not going to be easy."
"I remember everything I've ever read. If I can read about it, I can take it in a test," Luna said as they got up.
Hermione frowned, "Then why am I first in the class this year, and Harry is second."
"It's not fair that I remember everything and no one else does. I usually answer every fifth question wrong to give an even advantage," Luna told her honestly.
Hermione shook her head as she looped her arm in Luna's, "Oh Luna, everyone has you so wrong."
"My Mum always told me, why try so hard to fit in when you are born to stand out," Luna told her, "I try to live by it."
*~*~* April 6, 1999 *~*~*
Harry was sitting with Ginny on the couch at the Burrow, reading one of the study guides that Hermione had found for him. Ginny was reading Quidditch Weekly as he mindlessly played with her hair. Molly was preparing dinner in the kitchen, humming to the Wizarding Wireless.
The back door opened, and Harry heard Molly greet Ron. Ron entered the sitting room and looked around, "Where is Hermione?"
Ginny scoffed, "You know she stayed back at Hogwarts."
Harry looked up from his book to see the storm brewing in Ron's eyes, "Ron, she stayed back to study. Plus, we both had a hard time with Harmony leaving."
"It wasn't a real baby," Ron said, frustrated.
"She was for a month to us, Ron," Harry told him sadly, "I miss her too. She just needed some quiet time. She has been stressed between Harmony, our Head duties, and studying."
Ron scoffed, "Quiet time, she's avoiding me. Let's be honest."
Ginny jumped up, "Ron, don't jump to conclusions. She just needed some time to herself."
"Just time from me," Ron told them, "We had sex. It was horrible."
Harry jumped up and pushed Ron back against the wall, "Don't you dare talk about her like that."
"Always at her defense," Ron said as he pushed Harry away.
"Ron, have you tried talking to her?" Ginny asked as she cast a privacy charm around them so Molly wouldn't hear them.
"She took off and wouldn't even stay because she had to return to Harmony," Ron said bitterly.
"Look, just talk to her instead of assuming things," Ginny said, holding Harry back, "You are overthinking this. Hermione isn't the type to play games."
"She has to have someone else," Ron said bitterly, "That's it, that's why she stayed!"
"Are you serious?" Harry asked in disbelief, "This is Hermione we are talking about!"
Ron shouldered past him and left the house.
"What an idiot," Ginny said, shaking her head.
Harry walked past her, "I better go calm him down."
Ginny grabbed his arm, "One problem," She said, pointing to the Weasley clock, "He just left, and oh shite."
Harry turned and saw Ron's hand on School, "He's going to upset her."
Ginny grabbed his arm as he went towards the back door, "Hermione can fight her own battles, Harry."
Hermione groaned as she realized she needed to leave the common room for the first time in four days. Thanks to Winky and Luna, she hadn't left since her talk with Luna. Frowning, she sniffed her jumper, realizing she also wore the same outfit she had worn since that day. Casting a freshening charm on herself, she wandered down to the library.
Perusing the stacks, she looked for the book that she would need to help her with Slughorn's essay. Running her finger over the text in the thick tome in her hand, she jumped when a voice thundered through the library.
"Hermione!"
Hermione dropped the book, startled, "Ron!? What are you doing here?"
Ron picked the book up from the floor and slammed it onto the table, causing the few nearby students to glance their way, "Don't act like you don't know. Why are you here?"
"In the library? Studying," Hermione told him, confused, "I'm sorry I didn't go with Harry to the Burrow, but I needed time to catch up on my studies."
"Studying? Right, who is he?" Ron asked.
"He? Who are you talking about, Ron?" Hermione asked as she put the book back where it belonged.
"Whoever you've been hanging out and being with when I'm not here," Ron said angrily.
Hermione's eyes widened as she looked at him, "You mean Harry? He should have been at the Burrow. Did he not make it?" Hermione asked, worried.
"Harry, it's always about Harry," Ron yelled as Madam Pince walked over.
"Ron! Quiet," Hermione said, taking his arm and he pulled it from her grasp, "There is no one else. Harry is the only person I hang out with besides Luna."
"Hello, Ron," Luna said as she walked over, "I think you should leave the library. The Wrackspurts are horrible, clouding your judgment right now."
Ron clenched his fists and stormed out.
"What is wrong with Ron?" Luna asked Hermione.
Hermione sighed, "I don't know why he is here," She told Luna as she followed him and saw him pacing in the corridor, "What is wrong with you, Ron? This is ridiculous."
"Why are you avoiding me since we had-"
"Ahh," Hermione said, interrupting him as Luna came out of the library, "We had a… moment, yes, but that doesn't mean I'm avoiding you! I'm busy with my studies."
"First it was with Harmony, then it was with studies. When will it ever be time with me? Am I just the guy you settle with until you find someone better here at Hogwarts?" Ron bit out, throwing his arms in the air.
Hermione stepped back, "Do you really think that less of me? Ron, there is no one else. I pinned after you while you threw Lavender in my face. I had feelings for you for years, but if you can't trust me… maybe you should think about what that means for us," Hermione said as she turned, "Luna, I'm going back to my common room. I will see you in the morning."
Luna looked at Ron as Hermione walked away, "You don't deserve her. It's time to grow up, Ron, and look past your insecurities and jealousy. Did you even look at her?"
Ron looked at Luna, confused, "What are you talking about?"
"Hermione is so upset about Harmony leaving that she hasn't showered in days, her hair is a tangled mess, and she has been wearing the same outfit for four days, your old sweater and Harry's old trousers. She hasn't washed that sweater since you let her use it because it smells like you," Luna told him, shaking her head, "Your time is ticking, Ron. Don't waste it and let her slip away."
Ron frowned as Luna ran off in the direction that Hermione went.
Madam Pince came out of the library, "Mr. Weasley, not that you were ever here when you were a student, but why are you just wandering the halls of this castle when you were not. You are disrupting my library."
"I'll be going," Ron said, shaking his head.
*~*~* April 9, 1999 *~*~*
Harry stopped outside the Gryffindor common room, "I'll part with you here. I'm going to check on Hermione. I'm worried that Ron did something that pissed her off."
"He refused to talk to me about it. I'm afraid that he spouted off his mouth and upset her," Ginny said as she put her arms around his neck and kissed him, "I'll see you in the morning."
"Night," Harry said as he ventured to the Head's common room with his bag.
Walking inside, he stopped when he stepped into the common area and smelt a smell he hadn't since they were on the run and could not shower in the winter when it was cold. Surrounded by books and parchment was Hermione. There was a tangled bird's nest of hair on her head, and she was wearing the same outfit that she traditionally wore on Sundays, "Hermione," Harry said quietly, not to spook her.
Hermione looked up at him, "Harry? What are you doing back already?" She asked as he saw the dark circles under her eyes.
Harry set down his bag and knelt before her, "Hermione, when is the last time you showered?"
"You are back? What day is it?" Hermione asked, confused.
Harry took her hand, "Come with me."
Slowly, Hermione got up and stumbling into him. "What day is it? Is it Friday already?"
"When was the last time you ate?" Harry asked, leading her towards the stairs.
Hermione stumbled, going down the stairs, "I think yesterday. Ron made a bit of a scene on Tuesday, which was horrid. People were talking, and I didn't want to deal with it."
"He didn't say something stupid, did he?" Harry asked, supporting her as he led her to the Prefect bathroom.
"I," Hermione sighed, "I think we may have broken up. I'm not sure."
"What?" Harry asked, surprised as he said the password and led her into the Prefect's bathroom. Thankfully, no one was there, so he bolted the door behind them.
Walking over to the tub, he turned on the water tap and some scents that reminded him of her. Standing up, he turned around, "Are you sure?"
"No," Hermione admitted, "He was so upset and was saying things in anger. It sure sounded that way, though."
Harry grabbed the hem of his shirt as he kicked off his trainers, "Come on, let's get you cleaned up," Harry said as he looked at the filling tub, "I put the biggest bubbles, and I promise not to look."
Turning her head as he pulled his trousers and boxers off, she looked as she heard him splash into the water. Harry closed his eyes and looked towards the mermaid. Hermione hesitated momentarily, then pulled Ron's sweater over her head. Slipping Harry's track pants off, she jumped into the water. The tub was so full that the water nearly covered her chin, so Hermione walked over to shut the taps off. Treading the water, she looked at Harry, "Thank you, Harry."
"After you take a bath, we will go to the kitchen and get you some food," Harry said as he went to the shampoo tap. Putting some in his hand, he approached her and said, "Come here."
Hermione stared at him, then treaded over to him. He motioned for her to turn around and started raking it through her hair. She closed her eyes and tried not to gasp as he massaged her scalp. "You need to take better care of yourself, Hermione," Harry told her.
"It seems like everything that could go wrong lately has been. Mum and Dad said that since my plans are to go to the States, they are staying at least another year at least," Hermione said as tears came to her eyes, "There is no way we're going to catch up before our tests."
"We will be fine," Harry told her, "I talked to Kingsley, and they are also looking at our OWLs and NEWTs. It will all work out."
Hermione pinched her nose and dove under the water, working the shampoo out of her hair. Emerging from the water, she gasped when Moaning Myrtle hovered on the surface beside him.
"Bloody hell!" Harry yelled, jumping in front of Hermione to cover her, "Myrtle, what did I say about when I'm naked?!"
Myrtle huffed, "Don't come around the tub when you aren't dressed. I'm jealous that you have a girl with you this time. Hello, Hermione."
Hermione looked through Harry's arm at her, "Hello, Myrtle, nice to see you again. I think I'm clean now. I'm going to go get some food."
"Winky!" Harry yelled.
Winky appeared at the tub's edge, "Yes, Mr. Potter, sir, great friend of Dobby."
"Could you grab some clean clothes for me and Hermione?" Harry asked as Hermione gasped at his request, "Hermione, your clothes could knock out Fluffy right now. No offense."
Hermione sat at her vanity brushing her hair when Harry came to the doorframe and knocked on the wall. Looking at him through the mirror, she smiled, "Come on in."
Harry walked in and sat down on her bed, "So, coming back from my rounds, McGonagall stopped me."
Hermione set down her brush and turned around to look at him, "What did she say?"
"Kingsley came to her, and they want to do what they call a Victory Ball, a celebration of the war's end. McGonagall says that on May 1st, there will be some ceremony in the Great Hall, and then on the 2nd, there will be some ball," Harry said as he laid back on her bed.
"And because it's here, they expect us to attend, I assume?" Hermione asked.
"Of course, and McGonagall made the comment that I may need to make a speech. I'm going to get out of it. No one wants to actually hear from me," Harry told her.
"It's the start of DA all over again," Hermione told him as she got up and sat beside him, pulling her legs under her, "You don't realize the reach you have, Harry. I know you don't care about that, but it's true. You have this quality that is…magic, pure magic, and you have this magnetic personality that people just gravitate to. People can't help but trust you. When we were in the multitude of situations between the first year and this year, while I knew most of them were insane, I knew above all else I could trust you and trust your judgment."
Harry looked at her and grabbed her hand, "Thank you. You are always my biggest cheerleader."
Hermione swallowed hard as she thought about what she had heard about Ron and Harry when Ron had returned on their Horcrux hunt. That Harry said he loved her, but like a sister. She gave him a half smile and hit his shoulder, "You are like the annoying little brother that I can't help but take care of."
Harry leaned on his elbow on his side, "I don't know what siblings are like, but I think I'd be the big brother in this relationship."
"Just because you are taller doesn't mean bigger. I'm older, Harry James, don't forget that," Hermione told him as she got up, "And I spent almost an entire year going back hours into the past to go to classes. I assume that means I am almost two years older than you."
Harry laughed, "A year and a half at most."
Hermione pointed at him with her brush, "Ha! You admit it. I'm older."
Harry laid back, "Yeah, yeah."
*~*~* April 24, 1999 *~*~*
"Why are women's wizarding robes so ghastly?" Hermione asked, looking at the selection of robes at Gladrags.
"Because other than Madam Malkins, most robes are made by men," Ginny told her as she looked at the back of the store, "From what I understand, there is an exclusive area in the back of this place. Fleur told me about it, gowns straight from Paris."
Luna put a robe back on the rack and walked up to an employee, "Hello, I'm Luna Lovegood, and my friends Ginny Weasley, Hermione Granger, and myself heard from a friend there are other gowns in the back. We want to wear the gown at the Victory Ball, where Hermione will be honored."
The employee looked at Hermione and gasped, "Miss Granger, I didn't see you there. Of course, please, follow me."
Luna turned back and looked at Ginny and Hermione, "See. All you have to do is ask."
"Melody, Melody, I have three girls here to shop for the Victory Ball," The girl said as she looked at them, "I'm Claude. She will be right out."
A woman in the gaudiest robes came out behind some curtains, "Hello, Darlings, I am Melody Dubois, and I know who you are, the talk of the wizarding world. Ms. Granger, it is a pleasure," Melody Dubois said, curtseying to them.
"Pleasure to meet you. This is Ginny Weasley and Luna Lovegood, fellow heroes of the war," Hermione introduced.
"It will be a pleasure to clothe you all," Melody stated, "Let's get you clothed. Correct me if I'm wrong, but there will be a remembrance event the day before."
Hermione nodded.
"We would be proud to find you dresses or dress robes for both events. We have Muggle fashion and Wizarding," Melody said, leading them to a door. Inside was a room as big as the Room of Requirement and filled with dresses.
"This is going to be harder than I want," Hermione mumbled.
Stepping out of the fitting room after changing back into her clothes, Hermione looked over at Ginny, who was waiting for her, "Where did Melody go?"
"She said to meet her at the till when we were ready," Ginny said, biting her lip, "Do you have much money? Nothing was marked with prices."
Hermione sighed, "I have some. Hopefully enough to cover these."
Walking out to the main store, Hermione pulled her money bag out of her purse, "Where is Luna?"
"Luna already left with her boyfriend," Melody stated as she handed Hermione and Ginny zipped bags, "Here are your dresses, ladies."
"What is the total?" Hermione asked.
"We covered one dress each as a thank you for your service to our world. The other two dresses were paid for by an anonymous donor," Melody told them.
Ginny frowned, "Who knew we were here?"
Hermione looked out the window and saw Harry sitting on a bench with Luna and Neville, "I think I know."
Hermione sat down after Neville pulled her chair out, "Thank you, Neville."
"So, is everyone going to the Victory Ball?" Neville asked, pushing Luna's chair in for her.
"I honestly don't think we can avoid it, sadly," Hermione told him with a huff as Madam Rosmerta brought their drinks to them. She looked at Harry and said, "I know what you did. You shouldn't have bought our dresses."
Harry looked at her, "I have no clue what you are talking about."
"Sure," Hermione said as footsteps came towards them.
"Well, look who decided to show his face," Ginny commented.
Hermione looked behind her to see Ron, his eyes fixed on her.
"Hermione, can we talk?"
Hermione raised her eyebrows, "Oh, hello, Ron."
"Could we talk privately, please?" Ron asked, "It's important."
Hermione sighed as she nodded and let Ron lead her to a less busy area of the Three Broomsticks.
"Look, I owe you an apology. I messed up and shouldn't have treated you as I did," Ron told her.
Hermione folded her arms, "You think an apology erases what happened?"
"No, but I need you to know I was wrong. I let jealousy cloud my judgment, and I hurt you. I'm truly sorry, Hermione," Ron told her.
Hermione looked towards their friends.
"I have been thinking, and I know I need to work on my issues," Ron told her as Hermione looked at him pointedly, "I know, I can't let my insecurities ruin what we have."
Hermione studied him skeptically, "Ron, trust is crucial in a relationship. What are we doing if you don't believe you can trust me?"
"That's why I'm here. I want to work on this, on us. I can't lose you over something so stupid," Ron told her as he took her hand, "You have been a constant in my life since first year. I don't know what I would do without you."
Hermione sighed, "I can't just forget about what happened. Why should I give you another chance? The way you made it sound, we were done."
Ron looked at her, confused, "Done? I didn't break up with you. You mean everything to me, Hermione. I don't want to lose you. I'll do whatever it takes to make things right."
Hermione bit her lip, "Actions speak louder than words, Ron. You need to show me you are interested in this relationship."
"I know, I'm willing to prove it. I'll put in the work. Just give me a chance to show you," Ron told her.
Hermione looked over at their friends, and Harry gave her a small smile. Looking back at Ron, she nodded, "Alright, Ron, we'll see. If you can put in the work, write back more often, and be more supportive, we will work on it."
Ron leaned down and kissed her cheek, "Thank you."
Leading Hermione back to their table, they sat down.
"So, how is Auror training?" Ginny asked Neville and Ron.
"Tough, but we are getting through it. Glad to have Ron, though. When our teams work together, it makes it more bearable," Neville told her.
Ron smirked, "Glad that I had Hermione, the genius with me. Every once in a while, I amaze my trainers."
"Ron, are you going to the Victory Ball?" Neville asked.
"I don't think I had a choice," Ron admitted, "Kingsley told me that I was to be at Hogwarts for both days. He made it sound like we will be recognized for our efforts in the war."
Harry sat his Butterbeer down and sat back, "I get taking a chance to celebrate and honor those we lost, but why focus on us?"
Hermione bit her lip, "Because no one else stepped up," Hermione said honestly as they all looked at her, "Don't get me wrong, the Order helped. They were more of a support factor, though. Not an active part."
Ron looked at the table, "Sometimes I never thought we'd make it through the dark times, but look at us now."
"We're survivors," Luna said proudly.
Ron pulled Hermione's scarf closer to her, "Want me to walk you back?"
"No, I have Harry, Luna, and Ginny, but thank you for offering," Hermione told him as Ron opened the door for everyone, and they all exited.
Neville kissed Luna, "I'll see you on the 1st."
"You better," Luna said with a grin.
Ron leaned down and kissed Hermione's cheek, "I'll be there."
They all jumped as a light flashed.
"Shit," Harry mumbled, grabbing Ginny's hand.
"Go, we have them," Neville told them as he looked at Hermione, "Watch after her for me."
"Of course," Hermione said as she put her arm through Luna's. Neville and Ron cast a shield charm, blocking the press and following them until they got through the gate to Hogsmeade.
"Go!" Ron yelled as he and Neville stood at the end of the bridge.
They slowed down as soon as they made it to the gates of Hogwarts.
Ginny rubbed Harry's arm, "No one followed us, Harry."
"I'm so fucking tired of this," Harry said, frustrated, "How am I supposed to live a normal life when I cannot even go to a restaurant with my friends without the press following me? This is why I want to get away."
Ginny stopped, "What do you mean get away?"
Harry swallowed hard, looking at her, "I'm thinking of leaving England."
Ginny looked at him wide-eyed, "Leaving England to go where?"
"America with Hermione," Harry told her, "For college."
"And Luna too," Luna added.
Ginny looked at them, "You are all leaving me?" Ginny said sadly.
"Gin, you have the scouts from the league coming to the last game of the year. You are so good. They'd be stupid not to snap you up. Even if it's only the practice squad," Harry told her with a smile, "But I can't stay here, Gin. I'm miserable."
"I'm heading to bed. Goodnight," Luna said with a smile.
"I'll walk you there," Hermione told her, "Goodnight Ginny, Harry."
Harry led Ginny to the foot of the Grand staircase and sat down. Ginny sat beside him, "Is it that bad, Harry?"
"I've always hated the attention, Gin. Why should I be famous for not being able to die when my parents did. Why should I be famous for not having a choice but to fight in a war that grown adults pushed onto me? Now that it's over, things should return to normal, and instead, I have the press chasing me around. All I want is to have a normal life. I shouldn't have to run away across the ocean to get that, but it looks like I will have to," Harry admitted.
Ginny leaned on his shoulder, "I will support you, whatever you choose to do." Ginny told him, holding onto his arm, "And if I get picked by one of the leagues, I will do my best to visit you. Plus, they have breaks, right?"
"I'm sure. I might not even be accepted into the school. We have to take all these tests since we didn't do Muggle schooling. I was okay at school before Hogwarts but missed a lot. That's why I've been studying a lot with Hermione," Harry told her.
Ginny shook her head and leaned her forehead on Harry, "I'm so stupid. I've been so jealous, and you've been studying for this big test with her." Sitting up, she kissed him, "I'm going to go before my dresses get all wrinkled being shrunk in my purse. Goodnight."
"Goodnight," Harry said as she looked at her as he stayed, "I'm just going to sit here in the quiet for a bit."
"You don't want me to stay here?" Ginny asked him.
"No, I'm okay," Harry told her with a smile, "I'll see you at breakfast."
Ginny kissed his forehead, "Goodnight."
Harry stared at the doors to the Great Hall for a while.
"It doesn't feel right that there will be a ball, does it?"
Harry looked up as Hermione walked down the stairs, "I thought you headed back."
"I glanced down here and saw you sitting. I thought I'd check on you," Hermione stated as she sat beside him, "It feels like you can feel them sometimes."
Harry nodded, "Definitely. I think they all moved on, though. I've never seen any new ghosts, thankfully."
"No, not as ghosts, but their presence," Hermione said, looking towards the Great Hall, "Like Tonks stumbling into things when I trip, or I learn something new in DADA, and I think of Remus. Someone telling a joke or even a loud noise, and I think of Fred. They are all a part of us, Harry. Your parents, Sirius, even. They made you, made us who we are. Even if we hate the attention that is about to come from this Victory Ball, it's an opportunity to bring attention to them."
*~*~* May 1, 1999 *~*~*
Hermione stepped out of her bedroom at the same time Harry came out of his own, "Is this too much? I feel that it is too much."
"Wow," Harry said, taking her in.
"I told Melody, the shop owner, it was too much," Hermione said, pulling at the leather top, "The only reason I like it was that the halter covered my scar."
"I think you look great," Harry told her, "I just was expecting robes."
"I like your silver suit jacket," Hermione said as she walked over and straightened them.
"Did you know it's customary for wizards not to wear pants under their robes? I went to buy a new set of robes, and the wizard informed me of that. So I decided that on this suit," Harry told her.
Hermione frowned, "Seriously?"
"That's what he said," Harry told her as he stared at her, "Did you do something with your hair? It's straight but shiny, not like the Yule ball."
Hermione ran her fingers through her hair, "Is it too much? I remember Lavender using her wand as a straightening tool, and I tried it."
"No, not at all. It looks good on you," Harry told her, looking at his watch, "We should probably head down to the trophy room."
"Is that where we are meeting everyone?" Hermione asked.
"McGonagall said to go there first. You, me and Ron. I told Ginny, Luna, and Neville to meet us there too," Harry told her as he offered his arm, "Madam."
Hermione smiled as she took his arm, "Thank you, kind sir."
Looking up as the door opened, Ron and Ginny walked inside.
"Wow, Gin, you look gorgeous," Harry said as he walked over and kissed her.
Hermione took in Ginny's black dress, her pinned-back hair, and Ron's black suit with a simple t-shirt underneath.
"I didn't realize this was a fancy thing," Ron frowned as she walked over to him, "You look awesome. Your hair is so pretty."
"Thank you, I tried a spell that Lavender taught me once," Hermione said as Luna and Neville entered the trophy room hand in hand, "Neville, have you been exploring Muggle fashion?" She asked, taking in his gray blazer, blue pants, and a simple t-shirt with a scarf.
Luna touched his chest, "He looks so handsome, doesn't he?"
Luna wore a black sweater dress and blue leggings with an interesting pin. "What is your pin, Luna?" Hermione asked.
"A Humdinger Bird, do you like it?" She asked, showing her.
"I do," Hermione said, glancing at Harry as McGonagall and Kingsley entered the room.
"Potter, Granger, Weasley, we are going to start the Memorial ceremony, and I wish for you to sit behind me," Kingsley told them.
"Not without Ginny, Luna, and Neville," Harry told him defiantly, "You were there at the Ministry, Kings. You know they are just as big a part of this as we are."
"I'll modify the chairs," Kingsley nodded at them as he went through the door to the Great Hall.
Hermione walked over to Harry and said, "Have your speech?" She whispered.
"You wrote half of it. You should read it," Harry told her.
"I'm not who they want to hear," Hermione told him as McGonagall motioned for them to follow her.
Ron came up next to Hermione and held out his arm, "Miss Granger, may I have the pleasure of escorting you?"
"Certainly," Hermione said as she took his arm.
Harry held his arm for Ginny, "Make sure I don't look like an idiot?"
"You're a man, so that is a little hard, but I'll do my best," Ginny told him, putting her arm around his.
Harry looked back at his group of friends, Ron and Hermione, Luna and Neville, and smiled because they held stronger than anyone could ever imagine despite all that had been thrown at them.
A solemn song started playing, and McGonagall led them all to the Great Hall, filled with students, the press, and adults. McGonagall went to the furthest chair, and Harry stopped at the next one with Ginny at his side. Glancing down, he saw Ron, Hermione, Neville, and Luna standing in front of their chairs.
"Please be seated," Kingsley stated. Everyone sat, "Ladies and gentlemen, fellow wizards and witches, esteemed guests, and especially the courageous families who suffered the greatest losses during the dark days we faced not long ago. Thank you for coming to Hogwarts here tonight. In the heart of our magical world, we stand united to commemorate the first anniversary of the defeat of the darkest force to ever threaten our existence. As your Minister of Magic, I am honored to address you on this occasion."
Hermione glanced around as Kingsley paused, looking out at his audience.
"We gather here today with a mixture of reflection and gratitude. The scars of the past are still fresh and will forever be healing, and the memories of our fallen friends weigh heavy on our hearts. Today, we are here paying tribute to the brave witches and wizards who fought against the tyranny of Lord Voldemort and his followers. Their sacrifices will be forever etched in our history, a testament to the bravery of this magical community. Hogwarts served as the symbol of hope and resilience against the forces of darkness that day. We owe a great debt to the bravery of those who defended it one year ago," Kingsley stated as Hermione looked over at Harry and caught his eye as Ron took her hand, "To the families who lost loved ones both in battle and throughout the war, we offer our deepest condolences and unwavering support. Your sacrifices will never be forgotten, and the magical community stands beside you. We share your grief, and today, we honor the memory of those who fought to ensure a brighter future for all of us."
"Today, we are joined by three individuals whose names will forever be synonymous with the defeat of Voldemort, Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley. Please stand up," Kingsley said, looking back at them.
Squeezing Ron's hand, Hermione stood up with Ron and Harry, glancing down at Harry.
"These remarkable individuals, along with many others both here on the stage and beyond, faced an unimaginable challenge and demonstrated extraordinary courage in the face of adversity. Hogwarts and the world owe you a debt of gratitude, and the magical world is forever in your debt," Kingsley told them as everyone in the Great Hall stood and clapped, causing Hermione to swallow hard.
Harry nodded to them, and they all sat down.
"As we also remember those no longer with us, let us recall the wise words bestowed upon us by the later Albus Dumbledore. In times of darkness, he reminded us that happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light. The light is turned on in the wizarding world. We stand on the precipice of a new era of peace, reconciliation, and progress. We are to embrace the opportunity to rebuild and strengthen our magical world. May the memory of those we lost fuel our determination to create a new world where the light of magic shines for all and the shadows of the past are just distant memories. Thank you for coming today, and let the magic of unity guide us forward," Kingsley stated as everyone stood again, "Now, for some words for the man who brought us all here through his defeat. Harry, would you like to say some words?"
Hermione watched Harry slowly stand up and walk over to the podium.
"Sonorus. Thank you for joining me today as we gather to commemorate the first anniversary of the final battle of Hogwarts. This day cost us dearly but also marked the triumph over darkness," Harry read from his paper, "We stand here in the Great Hall where it happened, amidst the echoes of the past, in the shadow of the sacrifices made by those we loved and lost."
Harry paused, "Nothing would have been possible without the sacrifices of those who came before us. Today, I remember my parents, James and Lily Potter, and all those we lost in the first war, whose bravery set the stage for the struggle against the darkest forces. One year ago, in the shadow of these very walls, we faced the most formidable enemy the wizarding world has ever known," Harry read as he looked back at his friends, "We stood together against the darkness, united by a common purpose and a shared determination to resist the oppression that sought to engulf us all. The scars of that battle run deep, but so do the triumphs of the spirits who stood beside us."
Looking out at the crowd, he saw Andromeda, "I remember Remus Lupin and Nymphadora Tonks, whose courage and selflessness inspired us all, and remember Fred Weasley, whose infectious spirit and laughter left an indelible mark on our hearts," Harry stated as he looked at Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, "As we recall their names, let us not mourn the loss alone but celebrate the legacy they left behind and their unwavering dedication to a cause greater than themselves and their boundless love that still resonates within us."
Harry paused, repeatedly looking at the podium that Dumbledore had stood at, "In the pain of our losses, we find strength in the bonds forged through adversity. Ron and Hermione," Harry said as he looked back at them, "My closest companions, my brothers and sisters in all but blood, my pillars of support, I owe you more than words can express. Without you two, none of this would have happened. Your loyalty and friendship carried me through the darkest hours; I am eternally grateful for that. You were the steady hands that held me up when I stumbled, the voices that echoed courage when doubt threatened to consume us," Harry stated as he looked back at the crowd, "But let it be known that our journey was not solitary. I would not have been here without my three friends on the stage with us. Ginny, Luna, and Neville, your contributions were as vital as any spell cast in defiance of Voldemort and his Death Eaters. Ginny, your fierce independence and unyielding spirit rallied us all. Luna, your unique wisdom and unfaltering belief in the extraordinary reminded us that magic exists in the most unexpected places. Neville, your quiet resilience and bravery exemplified the strength that can arise from the most unexpected sources," Harry stated as he looked back out at the people in the audience, "Together, we formed a bond that transcended friendship. We became a family forged in the fires of adversity. Our collective strength, our resilience, turned the tide in our favor. The victory we achieved was not mine alone; it belonged to each and every one of us."
Harry breathed, "As we remember those we've lost, let us also remember the lessons they taught us, the importance of love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring power of friendship. Today, we honor the fallen and the living, the brave souls who stood shoulder to shoulder on this hallowed ground. May the memory of our loved ones be a guiding light, inspiring us to carry their legacy forward as we continue to build a world where the sacrifices made in the name of love and freedom were not in vain as we journey towards a future where love triumphs over hatred, and where the sacrifices made on this ground serve as a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. Thank you, and may we never forget the price paid for the peace we now enjoy."
Everyone stood up and cheered.
Professor McGonagall and Kingsley stood up at the podium as Harry sat down. Ginny grabbed his hand, "You did great."
After the ceremony had ended, Harry, Ron, Hermione, Luna, Neville, and Ginny had gone to the Head's common room to decompress.
"Is it just me, but are the portraits going to be weird?" Ginny asked as Harry tightened his arms on her waist, and she sat on his lap. "Seeing Remus and Tonks on the wall like that and seeing Fred daily."
"I overheard George talking to McGonagall, Fred's portrait won't be in the Great Hall. After everyone leaves, they will take it down and place it in the Gryffindor common room. George said it was only right that Fred would forever be able to watch over Gryffindor's future mischief makers," Ron said, holding Hermione's hand.
Harry chuckled, "That is a great place for it. If only it could talk."
"Could you imagine what he'd say?" Ginny laughed, "Especially when Teddy starts here."
"Hey Teddy, psst, this is what your Dad and his friends would have done," Ron said with a wink.
"Nah," Harry said, shaking his head, "Fred didn't know about the Marauders, at least who they really were."
"Who were the Marauders?" Luna asked, leaning back into Neville's arms.
"My Dad, Sirius, Professor Lupin, and his… another person they thought was their friend," Harry told her, "They were tricksters and pranksters of their own."
"So, what do you think of the ball tomorrow?" Ginny asked everyone.
"I think it's a bit ridiculous and too soon," Hermione voiced, causing Harry to look at her, "Let's celebrate all the ones we lost, but just one day later, dance on where they died? Makes no sense."
Harry shook his head, "I told Kingsley that I was not staying through the whole thing. He wants us all to open the dance. After that, I'm done."
Hermione took his hand, "If that is what you want, we will respect it. I agree with you, whatever you choose."
*~*~* May 15, 1999 *~*~*
"Meowr," Hermione heard as Crookshanks jumped onto the top of the chair she was sitting in.
Hermione pulled at her tie as she rolled her neck, "Crookshanks, it's too hot for you to be laying on me."
The heat inside the castle was stifling; even with a cooling charm, Hermione felt she was burning up. Harry was out with Ginny after Quidditch practice. Ginny had received a letter from a recruiter requesting a meeting with her, so Harry had gone to London to meet with him. Hermione, herself, was eyes deep into revising. The week prior, she, Harry, and Luna had completed their first A-Level test in Math. They had gone to London two days prior after DADA for their English A-Levels, the day before Hermione had finished her French GCSEs and Harry was submitting their History GCSE papers while he was in England. Tomorrow, they would have their British History A Levels. She would sit in on her French A levels in two days and have their geography papers due. She and Harry had three more to go before their NEWTs Theory testing started, and for the first time, Hermione realized that she had bit off more than she could chew.
Throwing her book onto the table using her wand as a bookmark, Crookshanks launched off the back of the chair. Hermione grabbed her tie and pulled it loose, unbuttoning her blouse and pulling her skirt from her body. She recast the cooling charm and sighed in relief as she finally felt cooler. Sitting back in her chair, she picked her notebook up, resting her ink bottle on the armrest, cursing herself for losing her only Muggle pen. Crookshanks jumped back up onto the chair and stared at her.
"You stole my pen, didn't you?" Hermione asked him.
Crookshanks started cleaning himself with a dignified look and settled in on the back of the chair.
With a huff, Hermione rested her left leg on the armrest, folded her right under her as a desk, and returned to her Runes text. She made notes in her text with her special notetaking ink that disappeared with a simple spell that Ron had got her for Valentine's Day. Still, she did not hear the door open as she was engrossed in her notes.
"Bloody hell!"
Hermione jumped up, knocking her book, wand, ink pot, and quill onto the floor. Crookshanks freaked out at her reaction and ran through the ink, running it all over the floor as he ran off, "Harry!" Hermione said, surprised, "I didn't expect you back yet."
Harry covered his eyes under his glasses, "I'm not looking, I'm not looking, really I'm not looking!"
"What do you," Hermione gasped as she realized she was down to her bra and her knickers to keep cool, and Harry had walked into the room as she had her legs spread open. Blushing, Hermione closed her shirt quickly, buttoning it, "Sorry." Grabbing her skirt, she stepped into it, "I'm covered. It's so damn hot in here."
"No, I should have announced that I was back. I was just excited to show you what I found," Harry said, opening his eyes, "Kingsley sent me an owl. While Ginny was talking to the recruiter, I stopped in at the Ministry. He had letters for us from New York University."
Hermione stared at him in disbelief, "Already?"
Harry nodded, handing her a letter to her. Slowly running her finger to open it, she took the paper out and unfolded it.
"Read it," Harry told her.
"Dear Ms. Granger, On behalf of the admissions committee of the School of Magical Arts and New York University School of Law, it is my honor and privilege to share with you that you have been admitted contingent on your incoming test results. It will be an honor to have you at our school," Hermione read with a smile as she looked at him, "Did you open yours?"
"I wanted to open mine with you," Harry admitted as he pulled his out of the back of his jeans and opened it, "Dear Mr. Potter, On behalf of the admissions committee of the School of Magical Arts and New York University School of Law, it is my honor and privilege to share with you that you have been admitted contingent on your incoming test results!"
Hermione shouted as she threw her arms around his neck, "I'm so happy for you, Harry!"
"Luna had one, too. It looks identical to ours. I'll admit I did Lumos on it to see through it," Harry told her, "Ginny found out that she is all but in the Holyhead Harpies. The recruiter has to formally see her at tryouts, but they want her as the reserve chaser."
Hermione sat on the couch, "How do you feel about that?"
Harry sat beside her, "I'm happy for her. It's her dream. She didn't have a backup besides having Mr. Weasley get her a job in the Misuse of Muggle Artifacts Office. She will be gone a lot between training, practices, and games. Now we are going to be on the other side of the ocean," Harry said, holding up his acceptance letter, "You and Ron are going to be in the same boat. Can we do this long-distance thing?"
Hermione sighed, "Ron and I already have nearly a year's practice. It's not easy; it's also Ron and me. We don't communicate well in the same room, much less across countries." Hermione looked at Harry, "I think you and Ginny will be able to handle it better. Maybe talk her into getting a mobile so you can talk to her."
"I'll be sure to give her lessons on how to use it so we don't have a Ron situation," Harry said with a laugh, "Did I ever tell you that he called the Dursleys? Yelled at Vernon and freaked him out."
Hermione groaned, "Is that what it was? Ron sent me an owl and told me that you weren't allowed phone calls and that he was afraid your uncle would do something because he called."
"Only after he yelled. I bet Vernon would have been fine if you called," Harry told her, bumping her shoulder.
"Now you tell me," Hermione looked at him.
Harry messed with his hair, "So, do all girls wear matching knickers and bras?"
"Harry!" Hermione said in disbelief.
"What?! It's an honest question because Ginny doesn't usually," Harry told her.
Hermione laid her head back, "We need to get back to studying, and I need to change."
Harry laughed, "Come on! Give me an answer. Wizards everywhere want to know!" He said as she got up and went to her room.
A/n: Thank you for the follow/favorites: ora1168, Lucimoon, crusader345
Guys I don't know if its FFN or what, I hate the formatting here lately, but I'm not getting the response here as I am on AO3. Barely any reviews and I am contemplating pulling this to post it strictly on AO3. If you want to see it here, please review! I need to know people are enjoying this here and I'm not wasting my time.
Preview of Chapter 12- Change
Taking in the room they were in after Harry removed the invisibility cloak, Hermione looked confused, "A nursery?"
Harry swallowed hard as he walked over to the dresser. Instead of the stuffed animals covering it as it had in his faint memory, a pensive sat down on it. Glancing at the window, a large gold-framed claw footed mirror stood in its place. "I barely remember them," Harry admitted, staring at the mirror with both of them in its reflection, "What I do remember, I don't know if the memories are real." Harry looked at her with tear-rimmed eyes, "This is what I remember my bedroom looking like. I don't know why I picked this place to look this way. Maybe it's because it will be the only time I can be here again."