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.

Get me with those green eyes, baby.

As the lights go down

Gimme something that'll haunt me when you're not around.

'Cause I see sparks fly whenever you smile

My mind forgets to remind me you're a bad idea

You touch me once, and it's really something.

You find I'm even better than you imagined I would be

I'm on my guard for the rest of the world.

But with you, I know it's no good.

And I could wait patiently.

But I really wish you would

Drop everything now

Meet me in the pouring rain.

Kiss me on the sidewalk.

Take away the pain

'Cause I see sparks fly whenever you smile

~ Sparks Fly by Taylor Swift

*~*~* June 2, 2003 *~*~*

The Ministry Munchies canteen was bustling with activity, as it always was when Hermione ventured down to get lunch during her break. Today was busier than usual. Many new black auror robes were milling around as it was the first day of the latest recruits of the auror class.

After going through the line and tapping her wand to the till for the total to be taken from her paycheck, Hermione walked over to one of the only empty tables. She sat down after first looking to see if Theo or Daphne was there.

She had just taken the first bite of her chicken salad sandwich when the murmurs grew louder. Looking up, she spotted Harry and raised her hand to wave at him.

Harry weaved through the tables and chairs before reaching Hermione and sinking into the seat at her table.

"How is your first day?" Hermione asked.

Harry grinned as he nodded, "It's been good. Mostly introductions and a tour of the facilities, beginning basic training. But you'll never guess who is in my Auror class?" Harry asked, leaning back in his chair.

"Do tell," Hermione said as she ate a crisp, "I'm guessing it's someone we knew at Hogwarts?"

Harry nodded, "Draco."

Hermione's eyes widened in surprise, "Malfoy? I didn't expect that."

"I guess he appealed to the Wizengamot to get a job at the Ministry. His probation is over, and they said there was no reason why he couldn't join the programme. He has masteries in potions and charms. It's just strange. He seemed different. Quiet almost," Harry said as one of the canteen workers approached them.

"Hello, Mr. Potter. I saw you didn't come up to order yet, so here is a sampler of a few of our samplings," She said, setting the plate in front of him and walking away.

Hermione looked at him as he blushed, "Already getting perks."

"Shut up," Harry said, throwing a potato tot at her, and she laughed.

"Just remember, people aren't defined by their pasts. He seems to have grown and changed. Maybe this is his way of making amends for everything that happened in the past. He sure knows the dark arts portion and how he can prevent it," Hermione stated.

"How has your day gone?" Harry asked as he took a bite of his food.

"I spent the morning with members of Wizengamot to final out the details for the school. We need to come up with a name for it," Hermione told him, "Wizarding Primary isn't as catchy."

Harry picked at his crisps, "I had an idea, but I wasn't sure."

"Go for it," Hermione told him.

Harry sighed, "Well, encouraging the Muggleborn aspect, what about Lily Potter School for Magical Beings?"

Hermione bit her lip, then smiled, "I love it. I'll get the paperwork started to make it official."

"Should we just call it Potter School?" Harry asked.

Hermione shook her head, "It's only fitting. We will go to the school tonight and talk to your grandparents, and they'll agree."

Harry frowned, "I am meeting George and Ron tonight."

Hermione stared at him, "I know it's weird for you, Harry, but you need to talk to them. They are your grandparents."

"But they aren't. They are portraits of their memories. When I am there, they try to tell me stories of Mum and Dad, and it just makes me realize what I missed out on," Harry admitted as he looked at his watch, "My break is nearly over."

Harry stood up, "I'll see you tonight."

Hermione sighed as she watched him walk away.

*~*~* June 14, 2003 *~*~*

"So I have news!" Katie announced as she stood up in the small bar in Muggle London that she invited all the girls in their group to. She turned her hand around, "Terry proposed!"

Everyone squealed and huddled around Katie to see the engagement ring.

Angelina smiled, "Congrats Katie."

"This calls for a round of drinks!" Susan yelled as she motioned to the bartender.

Luna frowned, petting her large belly, "Is there anything but water I can toast with?"

Lavender adjusted, groaning at the weight in her own stomach. "Being pregnant in a bar sucks. Hopefully, she will be out of me by next month. Next month, can we just go to somewhere else?"

Katie looked at all the Hogwarts alumni around her, "I think that is a great idea! We can do this once a month."

After everyone settled in at the bar, they chatted while waiting for a booth. Luna glanced at Hermione, "Did you hear about Harry and Ginny?"

Hermione frowned, "No, what happened?"

"I guess Ginny went to surprise Harry, and somehow they got into a big row," Luna stated, "Rolf was there to talk to Mark about something and saw Ginny storming out of the lifts after Harry.

Hermione grimaced, "When was this?"

"Thursday. Did Harry not say anything to you?" Luna asked.

Hermione shook her head, "No, he didn't. I'm surprised, honestly, that he didn't. They have been having issues. Ginny is pushing him, and he isn't ready for her to move in with us and, heaven forbid, get married."

Luna laughed, making everyone at the bar look at her, and Hermione sunk down in her chair further at the looks, "Hermione, those two aren't meant to be married. Harry craves love, and Ginny craves control. That is the only reason they are even still together."

Hermione stared at her in disbelief, "You think so?"

Luna nodded as she pushed herself up, "Now, watch my drink, please. I'm going to go to the loo."

Hermione watched her leave and make her way through the crowds. Then, she glanced behind her as someone leaned on the bartop next to her.

"Dean?" Hermione exclaimed as she saw him.

Dean turned and grinned, "Hermione Granger, what are you doing in a bar?"

"Katie Bell and Terry Boot got engaged, so we are here to celebrate. I feel like it's been forever since I've seen you. How have you been?" Hermione asked him.

Dean nodded, "I went to an art school in America for a bit. Just got back last week. What about you? Any celebrations on your horizon?"

Hermione laughed, "No, just working. I am trying to get a school up and running while working full-time. Being out tonight is a treat for me. What about you? Anyone special for you right now?"

Dean smiled at her, then winked, "I've been happily single for the last three years, but I'm hoping to change that. Tonight just might be the night."

The conversation flowed effortlessly between them as he told her about his experiences living in Chicago, where he went to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

"Why did you leave if you liked it so much?" Hermione inquired.

"After a year, I couldn't leave my Mum alone. I learned a lot, and my credits transferred here to the University of the Arts London, so I can continue my skills here at home," Dean told her, "So what are you doing?"

"I'm working in the Ministry now, Undersecretary of the Department head," Hermione said as she started talking about her job, then launched into what they were doing at the Lily Potter School for Magical Beings.

"If you want, I'd offer up my services for murals in the school," Dean offered.

Hermione smiled, "That would be amazing."

Luna cleared her throat, making Hermione jump, and she had a grin on her face., "Hermione."

"Oh, Luna! I didn't see you come back," Hermione stated.

"I did nearly 30 minutes ago. I think I am going to head home. I'm getting tired carrying around these two," Luna stated.

Hermione hugged her, "Want me to walk you home?"

"You don't have to," Luna stated.

"No, I must," Hermione said as she turned to Dean, "I need to help her get home."

"Well, I'd love to continue to catch up. Would you like to go to dinner sometime?" Dean asked.

Hermione hesitated, then nodded, "I'd like that, Dean."

Dean's face lit up as he quickly wrote his floo address and phone number, "How about next weekend?"

"Sounds great to me," Hermione said, taking his card, "I'll call you."

*~*~* June 20, 2003 *~*~*

Hermione stood in front of the mirror in her bedroom, adjusting her long patterned dress. This was Dean; they'd had grown up together, faced dark wizards, and fought in a Battle together, but she was nervous.

Staring at her reflection, she muttered, "Relax, Hermione. It's just a date."

The doorbell rang downstairs, and Harry yelled that he would answer it. Taking a deep breath, she grabbed a jean jacket and walked downstairs. She found Harry and Dean together in the sitting room, talking.

"Hey, Dean," Hermione greeted.

Dean grinned as he saw her, "Hey, Hermione. You are looking great."

"Thanks, you too," Hermione said, feeling herself blush.

"Ready?" Dean asked.

"Let's go," Hermione said as she followed him to the door, "Don't wait up, Harry!"

Dean led her to his older sedan car and opened the door for her. She slid into the passenger seat and let Dean shut the door for her.

After driving to their destination, they arrived at a 50s diner called Peg's. It was filled with conversation and songs from the small jukeboxes on each table. Guiding her to a table, which was clean, they sat down.

"This place is amazing," Hermione commented as the waitress approached to get their orders.

Dean smiled, "My Mum used to take me here on Fridays after school for a milkshake before Hogwarts. I loved this place. Peg was a real person back then. She died a few years ago. We would come here for breakfast, and she would order smiley cakes. It was just using blueberries for eyes and bacon for a mouth with a little pad of butter for a nose."

"Sounds fun," Hermione said as the waitress brought their beverages.

"It was. What about you? What was your childhood like?" Dean asked.

Hermione sighed, "It was great at the time. Away from school, that is. I was bullied by kids our age that didn't understand me."

"Our they were jealous of your genius. Honestly, I'm surprised you ever dated Ron for that reason," Dean told her, "Especially our first year, he just tore you down so much."

Hermione sighed as she stirred her straw, "Life-changing moments have a way of affecting things. Remember the troll that Quirrell let in the school?"

Dean coughed as he inhaled some of his drink, "Quirrell let it in?"

Hermione nodded, "I thought it was common knowledge!"

"No, Dumbledore just said that it got inside and that the girl's bathroom was out of order because it was trapped in it," Dean informed her.

Hermione laughed, "It was trapped in there with me! Harry and Ron trapped it there and didn't realize I was there!"

Dean looked at her in disbelief, "You're shitting me?!"

"No," Hermione told him as they quieted as the waitress walked by on the way to another table, "The bathroom was destroyed because we were fighting for our lives with the little spells we knew. Ron saved us all after Harry jumped onto the troll's back, using Wingardum Leviosa."

"Those bastards never said anything either," Dean said, "First year, at the end of the year, you all got points, and rumour was it was something to do with Voldemort and Nicholas Flamel."

Hermione sighed, "Oh, Dean, I could write a book with everything that has gone on in our lives that no one knew about other than Dumbledore and some teachers," She looked around and sighed, "Too many ears here."

Dean nodded, "Hold on."

Hermione watched Dean get up and approach their waitress, who entered the kitchen. Shortly afterward, she returned with two bags and a drink carrier. Dean pulled out his wallet, paid for their food, and took the bags. Walking back to her, he smiled, "Come on, let's take this conversation to a better location."

Hermione followed him to his car, "We are going to eat in your car?!"

"No," Dean stated as he put the food on the back driver's floorboard, "I know the perfect spot, and I think we are going to be just in time, too."

Hermione looked at the marquee as they pulled into a driveway, "A drive-in cinema?"

"It was my plan for after the diner, but I figured we would like a quiet place to talk. The first movie is a children's movie anyways," Dean stated as he paid for their car and pulled into the cinema's parking.

After parking and finding them a spot, Dean got out and got their food. Looking over his seat at her, she said, "You coming?" She got out and followed him towards the screen, where a small playground was set up along with picnic tables. It was mostly deserted as the movie had yet to start, and cars were still filling in.

Glancing around, Hermione pulled her wand out of her sleeve and cast a sanitation spell before Dean could spread their food.

"Alright, so what really happened in our first year?" Dean asked her, putting a chip in his mouth.

"Did you know Quirrell had Voldemort as a parasite on the back of his head?" Hermione asked.

Dean choked, "What?!"

"No clue if he was there with us all of the first year or not, but yeah, he was so close to death that he attached himself to Quirrell and was leaching off him. Then, Quirrell would kill the unicorns in the forest to make them survive longer," Hermione told him, taking a bite of salad.

Dean sat back, staring at her, "One of you needs to write a book. The truth of what happened, and no one knows."

Hermione waved him off, "There is a lot that no one SHOULD know, honestly. It's dark magic that should be left lost to knowledge."

After they finished their dinners and the sky had turned a dusky purple, they walked back to the car. Dean opened the boot as Finding Nemo played on the large screen. Pulling out two large bean bag chairs and a large comfortable blanket, he walked them to the front of the car and sat them down.

"You thought of everything," Hermione said in awe as he covered them with the blanket, and they settled in.

Dean shrugged, "I just wanted tonight to be special. It's been a while since I was on a date and a long time since I was with a beautiful woman like you."

Hermione bit her lip, "I do have a slight question."

Dean looked at her, "About Seamus?"

Hermione nodded, "It's just that time I caught you two after patrols."

Dean sighed, "I'll admit, we were together in school. After Ginny broke up with me in our sixth year. Seamus and I got close. We were together, but not officially together. More just messing around and exploring. After the shit of our seventh year and the couple years that followed. Seamus and I started having lunch together in Diagon Alley," He explained, "But our world is so backward, Hermione. Being gay is frowned upon, and Seamus' mum is old-fashioned. He couldn't take the pressure any longer, and we broke up. We are still friends."

"So you are both-"

"Bisexual. I find both genders attractive. Although, it's never been another male for me other than him," Dean confessed, "What about you? Anyone for you other than Ron?"

Hermione sighed, "There have been others, but no one has ever held my interest for long."

Dean leaned back, "It's smart to be picky. Less likely to get your heartbroken."

Hermione bit her lip, "I don't know about that. The loneliness is hard after a while, too. Have you ever felt alone in a crowded room?"

Dean nodded, "I get it. My therapist would give you an earful about it."

Hermione looked at him, surprised, "You have a therapist, too?"

Dean laughed, "We all survived a war. Everyone could benefit, and the Ministry should pay for it because of their shortfalls."

Hermione bit her lip, "That is not a bad idea, honestly. I could mention a few things to people at the Ministry, but I doubt it would go anywhere."

WhenFinding Nemoended, Dean got up and returned from the concession stand with a tray of drinks and a shared portion of nachos.

Handing them to her, Dean sat down, "I hope you like nachos."

"Love them," Hermione said as she took a tortilla chip and a bite.

The night air grew colder, and Dean put his arm around her after seeing her shiver. By the time the credits toDaddy Day Carerolled, they were using the shared blanket to keep themselves warm, and the movie was long forgotten. Hermione told him stories of what happened on the run before they met when captured by the snatchers. The headlights shining in their eyes as people started to leave broke their perfect evening.

Hermione helped Dean gather his things and pack the car back up. They drove back to Harry's house, chatting about what he wanted to do with his art training.

"I'm serious, though, Hermione. You should write a book about your adventures in our Hogwarts years. I'd illustrate it for you guys," Dean told her as he pulled into their driveway, "It would be a best seller. Imagine making a muggle version, too. It would be a great young adult story."

"That's an idea for the future, but definitely not now," Hermione told him as he shut the car off.

"I had a really great time tonight, Hermione," Dean said as he opened his door and walked around to open hers.

"Me too," Hermione told him as he walked her to the door, "Thank you for a great night."

Dean leaned in and kissed her cheek, "I'd love to do this again."

"I'd like that," Hermione stated with a smile, "Goodnight, Dean."

"Goodnight, Hermione," Dean said as Hermione entered the house.

Harry was sitting in their sitting room watching tele, and he looked over at her as she shut the front door, "Dean, didn't come in?"

"No, we just went to a diner and to a drive-in movie," Hermione said as she toed her shoes off and walked into the sitting room, "What are you watching?"

"Just channel flipping," Harry sighed as he threw the remote.

Hermione frowned, "Are you okay?"

Harry looked up at her, "Ginny and I took another break from each other. She wants me to take time and think about what I want for our future."

Hermione bit her lip and sat in the recliner, "What do you want for the future, Harry?"

Harry stood up, "I don't know!" Harry yelled as he pulled at his hair, "I never thought I would even make it to this point! God, all I hear at my Auror training is, 'Doesn't he look so much like James?' from the old Aurors, and all I can think of is… how can I look like my Dad when he didn't make it to 23?! I never thought I'd make it to 23!" Harry ranted, "Every year from eleven until I turned 18, I thought I wouldn't make it until the next year. For the last five years, I have been flying by the seat of my pants because I'm living the life I never thought I would have!"

Hermione swallowed hard, trying not to cry as she listened to Harry's rants.

"So I went to Australia with you because it felt right. It wasn't what was expected of me. Then I went back to Hogwarts instead of Auror's training because it again wasn't what everyone would have expected me to do. I'll be the first to admit I ran away to New York. I wouldn't have come back if Teddy wasn't in the picture," Harry paced and nearly stumbled over the coffee table.

Hermione frowned, "Harry, are you drunk?"

"No, I just had a few drinks," Harry told her as he sat on the couch and put his head in his hands, "I want a family, Hermione, but she doesn't want it until she is at least 30."

Hermione swallowed hard and pursed her lips together as she closed her eyes, composing herself, "Take this time, Harry. You need to talk to your therapist. Being in training has reopened some old wounds, but can I be honest with you, Harry?"

Harry looked at her, "Please be honest with me, Hermione."

"You need to take this time and think about your relationship. You guys, just…" Hermione stopped and thought about what she wanted to say, "Ginny has had hero worship for you since she was little, and combined with you saving her in the Chamber, it's a bit of the Florence Nightingale effect. None of it has truly been healthy. She travels, and you don't see each other much when she isn't. Yes," She said as he went to speak, "She is busy with training and appearances. I get that, but we have magic. We can make ourselves appear somewhere within seconds. From an outsider's perspective, she is with you because you are Harry Potter. You deserve more than that, Harry."

Hermione stood up, "I know that is probably not what you wanted me to say, but it's the truth, I see, and I think you've ignored it. Now, you should go to bed and think about it." She leaned over him and kissed his forehead, "Goodnight, Harry."

"Goodnight, Hermione," Harry said quietly as she walked out of the sitting room and slowly up the stairs. As she made it to the first floor, she felt a brief sadness that she knew was not just coming from herself.

*~*~* February 24, 2008 *~*~*

Luna looked up from her notebook, "So Dean gave you the idea for your book?"

"Gave me the motivation to start putting our story to paper. I first wanted to get Tales of the Bard published with Dumbledore's notes. Still, last year was when the ball got rolling for the story of our school years," Hermione stated, "I was honestly going to end it at that, but then to outdo me. Rita announced her book,The Golden Trio: Tales of Friendship, Heartbreak, and Love,without our permission… I couldn't let her. That is why I came to you. You'll put the truth out there. She won't. Honestly, she doesn't even know half of our lives. I can't let that pest win."

Harry poked his head in the room, a basket of dirty laundry on his hip and Teddy's grass-stained pants on his shoulder, "I hear her calling someone a pest. Is she getting worked up about Rita again?"

Luna laughed as Hermione glared at him.

"Just saying, honey, she drives your blood pressure up. You are supposed to keep calm. Think happy thoughts," Harry stated as she grabbed a book off the table next to the couch and threw it at him.

Harry dove, and the book flew into the basket, "Using books as ammunition. I better be careful," Harry stated as he came over and kissed her forehead, "I love you."

Hermione sighed as she smiled at him, "You are an ass, but I love you anyways because you are my ass."

"What point are you at now?" Harry asked.

"When you and Ginny broke up in 03. I just told her about my passionate speech when you wanted me to give you the truth, where I told you to pull your head out of your ass because Ginny was thinking about you as the hero Harry Potter and not you as just Harry," Hermione informed him.

Harry laughed, "You know I wasn't looking for the truth about Ginny. I was looking for the truth of your feelings for me, right?"

Hermione's jaw dropped, "WHAT!?"

Harry grinned, "Just saying, you keep saying I was oblivious of my feelings for you, but babe, you were just as bad." Harry glanced at Luna, "Am I right?"

Luna nodded, "We all saw it."

Harry looked at Hermione, "See, I took that speech as you wanted me to think of my intentions with Ginny and discuss how I was feeling with her to see if she would change."

Hermione groaned, "And she did."

*~*~* July 10, 2003 *~*~*

Ron looked at Hermione as they sat together in Ministry Munchies eating their lunches, "So where is the third member of our trio? Our Thursday Trio lunches can't be trio lunches when there is only a duo here."

Hermione threw her crisp down, "He has been acting weird. Have you noticed that?"

Ron shrugged, "I thought it was just him being weird because of their breakup."

"I think that is part of it, but he is also exhausted by the time he comes home," Hermione told him.

Ron nodded, "The first couple of months of Auror training are the worst. They are doing their best to mentally break you to weed out those that won't last early." Ron picked at his food, "Have you talked to Luna lately?"

Hermione nodded, "Did she tell you about Rolf?"

Ron sighed, "Yeah."

Hermione shook her head, "She is almost full term, and he is rarely home. If it wasn't Rolf, I'd be worried about him cheating, but Luna thinks it's more that he is weirded out by her being pregnant."

"Luna with pregnancy brain is horrible. She is either in the clouds or crying," Ron frowned, "I stopped over there the other day, and she forgot something on the stove and nearly burnt down the house chasing a Wrackspurt. Rolf hadn't been home in two days at that point."

Hermione rested her head on her hand, "I was afraid with them being together for a short time, then they were engaged, then by October they were married, then bam, it was twins all in less than two months, that it was going to be too much for her. I never expected it to be too much for him."

"Luna said he was working on a new book about his travels and going around the world to get evidence for it, but it hasn't been my kids, and I still know through Bill that you have to be there for your witch," Ron stated.

"We just need to drop in on her frequently until she gives birth," Hermione stated as Linda walked over to Hermione, "Hey, Linda."

"Hey, I didn't want to forget to give you these before I left for the day," Linda said as she handed her an envelope.

"Thank you," Hermione said as she took them, then looked at Ron, "What?"

"What's that?" Ron asked.

Hermione sighed, "Tickets to the Magical Environment Conservation Gala. We are attempting to finish the new preserve in Wales. Hopefully, this will help them reach their fundraising goal, finish it, and start bringing in the dragons."

"You also went to a gala last month," Ron commented.

"It was the Education fundraiser, and I went to network," Hermione told him, "Plus, Pansy gave me another dress. I don't have to buy dresses and can get her advertisement. Now that Lavender has had Amanda, she and Pansy have talked. After her maternity leave, they want to team up."

Ron nodded, "Good for Lavender."

*~*~* July 18, 2003 *~*~*

Hermione walked into their house with her new dress for the Conservation gala in hand. She nearly collided with Harry, who was heading out, "Heading out?"

"Yeah, I want to say thank you, by the way. I haven't talked to you much this week, but Ginny and I sat down and talked. We ironed things out and aired our issues. It helped, so thank you," Harry told her.

Hermione put a smile on, "You are welcome." Taking in his nice shirt and pants, "Taking her out on a date?"

"We both agreed that we need to get out more, so we are going tonight. Teddy and Ron are in the kitchen with macaroni and cheese that I made," Harry told her as he kissed her cheek, "Goodnight."

Hermione sighed, "Night."

Hermione groaned as the door shut behind him, "I'm an idiot."

*~*~* February 24, 2008 *~*~*

"So you basically drove him into her arms," Luna supplied.

"Yep," Hermione said as she wiped her face, "Then the shit hit the fan at the finals."

*~*~* July 26, 2003 *~*~*

Hermione sat on the edge of the plush armchair in Luna and Rolf's living room and looked around to see if she could do anything. The Wizarding Wireless Network filled the room as Ginny's team played in the Quidditch Finals for the Cup.

The eight-month-pregnant Luna lounged comfortably on the couch, her swollen belly stretching the fabric of her shirt nearly to the point of no return. Occasionally, Hermione could see a part of one of the twins through Luna's clothes. It looked painful, but Luna sat, smiling as she flipped through an issue of the Quibbler.

"How are you holding up, Luna?" Hermione asked, "Need anything?"

"I'm quite well, thank you," Luna told her dreamily as she gazed at her belly, "The babies are very active today. They seem excited about the match, too. Lorcan will play for Hufflepuff in the future. I am certain."

Hermione looked at her, "You picked names?"

Luna nodded, "Lorcan and Lysander."

"Those are… lovely names," Hermione smiled.

Trying not to fall asleep to the wireless, the commentary for the game grew more intense. The Falmouth Falcons had just scored two goals, but Ginny had already scored five.

"And it's another goal for the Holyhead Harpies, scored by Ginny Weasley! That's her sixth goal for the day! The score is now Harpies 210 and Falcons 160!"

Hermione had just stood up to get a drink when the commentator announced the Seekers were in a race for the Snitch.

"And the Holyhead Harpies win! 360 to 160 against the Falcons!"

"Hermione!" Luna called to the kitchen, "Did you hear that? They won! Ginny must be over the moon."

Hermione sat down with her glass of water. She picked up her book to continue reading her chapter when the announcer said they were interviewing Ginny.

"Ginny Weasley, how does it feel to bring the Harpies a championship at last?"

Ginny's breathless voice was filled with joy through the wireless, "It's absolutely incredible. I'm proud to be part of this team and to have contributed to this victory. But honestly, I'm most excited to go home and celebrate with my fiancée!"

Hermione dropped her book as Luna gasped, "Fiancee? Did she just say, fiancee?"

Luna looked at her in shock, "Did Harry say anything?"

Hermione shook her head in disbelief, "No! They only got back together a week ago! This is… sudden."

Luna reached over and gently touched Hermione's arm, "Maybe it was a slip of the tongue?"

Hermione chewed on her lip, "I suppose so."

*~*~* July 27, 2003 *~*~*

Hermione's head snapped up as she heard the floo. She put her third cup of coffee on the table, and her brown eyes met green as Harry walked into the kitchen.

Harry paused when he saw her, "Hermione, what's going on? You seem upset."

Hermione stood up and started pacing, "Harry, what was Ginny talking about in her interview? She said that she couldn't wait to celebrate with her fiancée. When did that happen?"

Harry sighed as he sat down at the table, "Friday," He admitted, running his hand through his hair, "Ginny and I talked a lot since we got back together. We sorted through many of our issues, and it felt right. I don't even have a ring yet, but she said yes. She was just so excited after the match that it slipped out."

Hermione's eyes widened in disbelief, "This must be a joke! Come on, Harry! It's not even a good one!"

"Why the hell would you think I'd joke about this?" Harry asked her.

"Harry! You've only been back together for a week! A week! This is so sudden. Have you even thought this through?" Hermione said, exasperated.

Harry nodded, "Ginny and I love each other, and we've been through so much. She said that after we get married, we will take a couple years just the two of us, and when her career is more solid, we will have kids as long as we can get a nanny elf. We're finally on the same page with everything."

Hermione felt her temper flare, "So you just decided on the spur of the moment to propose? This is your life, Harry! You can't rush into something like this because it feels right in the moment!"

Harry stood up, frustration showing on his face, "I know what I am doing, Hermione. I love Ginny, and she loves me. We've been together for years and are finally ready to take that next step. Why can't you just be happy for us?"

"Happy!?" Hermione nearly winced at her voice, "Harry, I want to be happy for you, but this is just reckless. You are talking about marriage and children like it's so simple! Have you ever considered what this means for Teddy?! You can't just make these decisions on a whim!"

Harry's face fell, "This isn't a whim, Hermione. And Ginny's not just anyone. We've been together for six years! I don't need your approval."

Hermione stepped back like he slapped her. Tears of frustration welled in her eyes as she turned sharply and stormed out of the kitchen.

Taking the stairs two at a time, she opened the door to Teddy's room. His smile faded when he saw her tears, "What's wrong, Momma?"

Hermione swallowed hard as she grabbed his overnight bag, "We're going to go stay with Grandmum," Hermione stated, trembling, "Grab Wolfie."

Teddy looked confused but did as he was told.

Taking his hand, she walked him downstairs, and Harry came out of the kitchen, pausing when he saw Teddy's bag, "Where are you going?"

"I need to get out of here for a bit and clear my head," Hermione told him, "I'm taking him to Andromeda's, and I'll be at Mum's house for a bit."

"Come on, Hermione," Harry said in disbelief, "What the hell is this about?"

"Dada said a bad word," Teddy stated.

Taking floo powder, she threw it into the fireplace. "Minister's House," she stated as it swept her and Teddy away.

"He did what?!" Andromeda asked in disbelief.

Kingsley picked Teddy up, "Teddy and I are going to go out to the backyard and play some."

Hermione laid her head down on the table, numb in disbelief, "He proposed to her, Andromeda. We had a huge row about it, too, and I left. I can't do this. I just can't watch him marry her."

Andromeda shook her head, "That boy is an idiot. Let me talk to him.

"Nope, he wants to make his bed with her. He can lie in it. I'm done," Hermione told her as she groaned, "Why couldn't this have gone down on a day other than Sunday so the bars would be open. I need a drink."

Andromeda rubbed her back, "I'm so sorry, Hermione."

*~*~* August 1, 2003 *~*~*

"Where is she?!"

Hermione opened her eyes as she heard Harry's voice.

"Harry, calm down. Who are you looking for?" Andromeda asked.

"Hermione! She called off from work, Andromeda. She blew up at me when Ginny announced the engagement and missed my birthday. Something isn't right," Harry stated desperately.

Hermione heard Andromeda sigh, "Harry, imagine if the roles were reversed. Imagine you learned about Hermione's engagement through the wizarding wireless, not in person. How would you feel?"

"Shitty. I was going to tell her, but she wasn't at the match, and then Ginny ran her mouth," Harry said, "Is she here? She isn't at Mum's or at the Burrow. I just want to know she is okay."

"She is fine. Just hurt. Give her some time," Andromeda told him.

Hermione rolled back over and put the pillow over her head to drown out any other conversation.

*~*~* February 24, 2008 *~*~*

"You two were a shell of yourselves for a while. How long did you two avoid each other?" Luna asked.

Hermione closed her eyes, "I went 34 days without seeing him. My own stupidity and pigheadedness. I didn't mean for it to originally go so long, but then Lorcan and Lysander were born on the 2nd, and I came to stay with you and Rolf for a bit to help you two. I canceled going to girl's night that month to stay with you. Dean was the only person I saw out of work to help me get out of my head. We had fun on a few dates, but I ended things with him on the 15thbecause it was not fair to him. I'd pick Teddy up from school after leaving work early and bring him to Andromeda."

"So, you first saw him at the Grand Opening?" Luna asked.

Hermione nodded.

*~*~* August 30, 2003 *~*~*

Hermione stood in the office of the Lily Potter School for Magical Beings, looking out the windows to the moat and bridge below. A mixture of excitement and anxiety ran through her veins as today her vision was coming true. Tonight was the grand opening gala. The first students would arrive on the 1stof September, just like Hogwarts.

Picking up the guest list of RSVPs, she scanned her eyes over it one more time. Theo, Pansy, Daphne, and Blaise were some of the first to respond to the invitation. Nearly all members of Dumbledore's Army were coming. Even the Malfoys had RSVPed. Near the bottom of the list were Ginny and Harry. It would be her first time seeing Harry in over a month since their heated argument about their engagement.

"Everything looks perfect," Dean said from beside her as he looked out the window to the bridge, where guests were beginning to mingle at the open bar and light refreshments area.

Hermione turned to him with a grateful smile, "Thank you, Dean. The murals you painted around the school are amazing, and the children will love them."

Dean grinned as he pushed a piece of hair behind her ear, "Anything for you, Hermione. This place is going to be amazing."

Someone clearing their throat made Hermione look towards the door to see Molly poking her head into the office, "Hermione dear, it's nearly time to head to the front doors."

Glancing outside, she took a deep breath and nodded, "Let's go."

Once they made it outside, she immediately spotted Harry and Ginny standing together hand in hand. Her heart panged, but she pushed the feelings aside as she walked over to Kingsley.

Nodding to her, Kingsley hugged her, "Ready?"

Hermione nodded, wiping her sweaty palms on her dress.

Taking to the podium, Kingsley cast sonorous, "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you all for coming tonight to the grand opening of Lily Potter School for Magical Beings. When Hermione came to me with the idea of a school for magical children and beings before Hogwarts, I knew it was a cause worth supporting. Her vision was to introduce children and their families, especially Muggleborns, to magic earlier than Hogwarts age. She also aspired to improve access to education for all magical beings. This year, the first classes for ages five to eleven start to give students a beginning magical education and a solid muggle education in arts, sciences, mathematics, and literacy. Next year, her quest to improve access for all magical beings will be realized. The Lily Potter School will open to house elves, goblins, and other creatures who apply for admission to the school. Hermione and Mr. Potter's house elf, Harmony, will be among the first class."

The crowd applauded, and Kingsley stepped back so Hermione could approach the podium.

Clearing her throat, she amplified her voice, "Thank you, Kingsley, for those kind words and support. This school would not have been possible without the contributions of our generous sponsors and donors. I would like to thank Kingsley and Andromeda Tonks personally for their generous help with this undertaking. Minerva McGonagall and the Hogwarts board for their help finding future students, Molly Weasley for her support, Dean Thomas for the murals in the school, and Harry Potter, who donated his family home for this cause."

She swallowed hard as her voice wavered, stating his name. Taking a breath, she pressed on. "With the ribbon cutting, please feel free to explore the school. There will be guided tours from the front hall every thirty minutes. Dinner will be served in the cafeteria at 6pm, followed by the gala and silent auction in the gymnasium at 7pm. Thank you all for coming and for your support."

Kingsley and Hermione turned to face the large ribbon before the doors. With a slicing hex, the ribbon fell to applause, and people began to head inside. Hermione smiled and greeted those she knew, thanking them for coming. After nearly everyone had gone inside, Harry approached her and looked at Ginny, "Why don't you go in with your Mum? I'll catch up."

Hermione finally met his gaze with sad eyes, "Harry, I don't want to talk about it tonight. There is too much to say and too many people around."

Harry nodded, "Okay, Hermione. Later then. I'll be here if you need me."

"You haven't been here in months. Go inside, see what we've done. I hope you are happy with what we've done," Hermione stated.

"I'm sure it's amazing," Harry told her as he headed inside.

The evening proceeded smoothly, with guests stopping her, marveling at the school's innovative features, where she had incorporated muggle and magical means using a generator for power on the muggle devices. Hermione was in high spirits but couldn't shake the tension in her shoulders that she had been carrying since their fight.

Around 9pm, after the gala had settled into a comfortable rhythm and people were dancing the night away after the silent auction ended, Hermione ventured down to the secret garden. Stepping foot into it, the world fell silent. Smiling, Hermione went and sat in the swing, rocking slowly back and forth.

"This place is beautiful."

Hermione nodded as Harry passed through the gates, "This is the secret garden. Only Potters and their mates are allowed to step through here. It was your grandmother's favorite spot, and she put a spell on it so the roses would grow all year round. Over there is where your father added lilies for your mother."

They stood silently for a moment before Harry spoke up, "Hermione, I'm sorry. I felt blindsided, too, but I handled it poorly." He sat on the bench by the pond, "You are my best friend, and I've missed you. Things haven't been the same without you."

"I miss you too. I just needed time to process everything," Hermione stated.

Harry knelt before her, "After what you said, I thought about it. Ginny and I have decided to not rush into marriage. We're going to have a long engagement."

Hermione nodded, relieved, "I'm glad you two are not rushing into anything. I know you haven't seen it from inside the relationship, but from the outside, I was worried."

Harry took her hands, "I want to be here for the school if you let me. I was thinking of a little league Quidditch team on Saturdays? It's my day off right now. I could do it on Saturday mornings. I think Teddy would love it, too."

Hermione smiled, "I'd like that, and I know he would too."

Hermione stood up, and Harry pulled her in a hug. A sense of relief washed over her, and Hermione knew he felt it too because he had pulled her tighter.

"So this is my heir?"

Harry pulled her behind him, wand out.

Hermione looked around Harry with a chuckle, "Hello Linfred. Harry, remember me telling you about Linfred?"

Harry lowered his wand, "Hello, sir."

The ghost floated near them, looking over them, and smiled, "I approve. Your magic is strong. It will be stronger when the bond is fulfilled. In the future, the Potters will be unstoppable.

*~*~* February 24, 2008 *~*~*

"Are you kidding me?" Luna asked, staring at her.

"Nope. I told him that only the Potters and those they are bonded with could be in the garden, which went right over his head. Then Linfred said when the bond is fulfilled… again, nothing," Hermione stated with a sigh, "I hoped it meant that it would put a bug in his mind to go look it up. Not sure if he ever did." Hermione shrugged as she rubbed her belly, "Harry saying they weren't rushing into marriage and apologizing helped how I was feeling, but you kicking me out pushed me to return home."

Luna laughed, "Glad to have helped."

*~*~* September 12, 2003 *~*~*

"So, will I see you tomorrow at the Wizarding Arts and Culture Soiree?" Theo asked as they walked to the fireplaces together.

"No, this is one that I told Pansy I was not going to. With the school opening, I just want to go to Luna's house and relax," Hermione told him as she waved to Daphne, who was talking to someone at the coffee cart.

"Still not going home?" Theo asked.

Hermione sighed, "It's better, but the pain is still there. With the engagement, I'm trying to distance myself. Ginny gets jealous, and with her having a ring on her finger now, I just see it coming. She tells him to make a choice. I know we are growing up, and it will come when space will become bigger between us, but I want to be the one to do it instead of being forced."

"Theo!" Daphne called.

Theo waved.

"No, go. I'm heading out. I'll see you on Monday," Hermione told him as she put a knut in, and powder fell into her hand. Throwing it into the fireplace, she stepped in, "The Scamander Menagerie!"

Hermione closed her eyes and spun around through the networks of London. Suddenly she felt as if she was sucked in reverse and fell out onto the cold tiles of the Ministry. Many people gasped around her, and Theo yelled her name, rushing over to her.

"Hermione! Are you okay? Merlin, what happened?" Theo asked as he helped her stand.

Hermione dusted herself off, "I don't know. I was nearly there, then suddenly I got sucked back."

Theo frowned, "That happens when people turn their floo connections off. Would Luna turn hers off? She doesn't seem the type."

Hermione returned to the floo, "I'm going to check on her."

"Be careful!" Theo yelled as she disapparated to Luna and Rolf's backyard.

Walking to the backdoor, Hermione knocked, "Luna!? Is everything okay?"

Rolf answered, making Hermione jump back. "Luna said that she was kicking you out. While we love having you here, she and I feel that you should go home."

Hermione huffed as he handed her beaded bag to her, "Fine. She could have just told me instead of turning the floo off."

Rolf winced, "Sorry."

Hermione looked at him, "You both know where to find me if you need me."

Disapparating back home, Hermione landed in the backyard. Looking up at the house, she walked inside and stopped at the backdoor. In her mind, she hadn't been home for a month and almost expected the whole house to be different. For Ginny to have stepped in and made changes.

Instead, Ron was at the kitchen table with Teddy coloring, and they looked at her as she stood in the doorway.

"MUM!" Teddy yelled as he jumped off the chair and stumbled to the ground, trying to get to her.

Hermione helped him off the floor and held him to her chest, "Oh, Teddy."

Teddy took her face in his little hands, "Is Aunt Luna okay now so you can come home?"

Hermione couldn't help the tear that rolled down her eye, "Aunt Luna is doing much better, and I am home."

Teddy threw his arms around her belly, "I'm so happy."

Hermione kissed his head, "I am so sorry, Teddy. I shouldn't have stayed so long."

"It's okay; the babies needed you, and I'm a big boy now," Teddy told her with a big smile, "Am I big enough to hold them now?"

Hermione laughed, "That is up to Aunt Luna."

Ron cleared his throat, "Teddy, how about you go find Crookshanks so he knows Mummy is home."

"Okay!" Teddy yelled as he ran off.

"Don't run!" Hermione yelled as she looked at Ron, who walked over and hugged her. Swallowing hard, she embraced him as he rubbed her back, "Hi, Ron."

"Feeling better?" Ron asked her, "I know it had to be hard for you."

"I just had to accept it," Hermione told him as he pulled back and looked at her, "I haven't fully accepted it, but I'm in a better place about it."

Ron looked at her, "I shouldn't say this because I'm torn. I want Harry to become my brother-in-law, but he is still my brother, no matter what. Maybe they won't work out. You know they've been having issues, and I love Ginny. She is my annoying little sister, but the season is over. She will be around more, but they haven't been around each other full-time much. Wait and see what happens."

Hermione looked at him surprised, "Ron, you have graduated to the emotional range of a half cup."

Ron laughed as he pulled her into another hug, "Couldn't have done it without you."

Hermione sighed into his chest, "Why couldn't we have worked out? Life would have been so much easier."

"We would have killed each other eventually," Ron told her as Crookshanks came rubbing at Hermione's legs.

Hermione bent down and picked Crooks up, "Hello, old man, did you miss me?"

Crookshanks rubbed against her face, licked her cheek, then struggled to get down.

Hermione laughed as she set him down, and he ran off, "That's as good as a greeting I'll get from him."

*~*~* September 19, 2003 *~*~*

Hermione had taken a half day on her 24th birthday and had come home, taken a hot bath, and was curled up in the way window with one of the newest best-sellers,The Time Traveler's Wife.She was in tears reading a part where Henry disappeared in front of Claire, and tears ran down her face. Jumping as someone took her hand, Hermione looked over to see Harry sitting on the floor, holding her hand.

"Harry? When did you get home?" Hermione asked, wiping her eyes.

"About five minutes ago, you were so into reading I didn't want to bother you, but then you started crying. You shouldn't be sad on your birthday," Harry told her.

"It was just a sad part of my book," Hermione said as she put a piece of paper in her book and set it aside.

A small meow made her pause, "What was that?"

Harry got up and walked behind the couch, "If you don't want her, let me know. We were out on field training, and she was stuck in a drain. I got her out and put her in my robes. She is so small that she curled up in my pocket and fell asleep. If you don't think Crooks would do well with her, I'll take her to a shelter."

Hermione looked in the box, and her heart melted. Inside was a beautiful white, chocolate, and tan cat with the bluest eyes she had ever seen. Picking her up, Hermione snuggled her to her chest, "Oh, Harry."

"I couldn't leave her there. I went door to door asking if she belonged to anyone, but no one claimed her," Harry said, scratching the kitten behind her ears, "So what do you think? Do we keep her?"

The tiny kitten answered for them as she burrowed into Hermione's shirt as if she were hiding, and Hermione laughed, "I don't think she wants to leave."

"It's your birthday. You name her," Harry told her as he walked over to the couch.

Hermione walked over to the couch and sat next to him. The kitten grabbed her bra strap and moved onto the top of her shoulder. "Her eyes are so blue. They make me think of the Hope diamond. My Great-great Uncle owned it once," Hermione petted the tiny kitten, "What do you think, honey? Are you a Hope?"

A small meow and a nuzzle was her answer.

"I think she agrees," Harry said as he smiled.

Hermione looked into his eyes, "Thank you for giving me Hope."

"Happy Birthday, Hermione," Harry said as he kissed her cheek, "Will you forgive me for whatever I did and come home for good?"

Hermione touched his face, "There is nothing to forgive, Harry. Luna is settled, and I won't leave until you kick me out."

Harry smiled, "I will never kick you out. We can expand this house or get a new one. All I can see is you, me, Ron, and all our families growing up together in a big house."

Hermione bit her lip, "That would be an amazing dream."

*~*~* February 24, 2008 *~*~*

"So, did you name Hope after the diamond?" Luna asked.

"Yes, and no. He gave me a cat for us to share. It gave me hope that, like Ron said, maybe they wouldn't work out," Hermione told her as she laid back on the pillow, "October wasn't eventful. I started dating a muggle guy named Dan, who I had met online. Dudley did reach out to Harry again and came over. They talked about their childhoods and how messed up they were. They still get together once a month for a drink, and he is over for dinner once a month, too." Hermione chewed her lip as she looked through her journal, "Oh! Harry did go through his first animagus transformation in October. He told his Auror trainer about his Dad and wanted to try it."

Luna took her glasses off, "What is he? I didn't know he could."

Hermione looked at her, "Don't put it in the book, but he is a stag like his Dad was, but his antlers are more jagged. He is gorgeous, though." Flipping through November in her journal, Hermione shook her head, "Nothing in November either. Oh! But in December, I visited my family in France alone, much to their disappointment, and we had our first Christmas here at the house for you guys."

*~*~* December 20, 2003 *~*~*

"So, how are things going?" Susan asked as all the women ended up gathering in the kitchen.

Hermione looked back at her as she took the cookies out of the oven, "What do you mean?"

"Hermione, she is asking about Dan. How are things going between the two of you?" Pansy asked, sipping on her wine.

Hermione sighed as she put the oven mitts away in the drawer, "I broke up with him."

All the women in the kitchen groaned, and Parvati looked at Hermione, "Are you trying not to find someone?"

Hermione blushed, "I'm just picky, alright? He was a great guy, but not what I was looking for. We got along well, but he never got along with Teddy. If he knew I was having Teddy, he wouldn't come over. I told him that Teddy would be part of my life and he wouldn't be the man for me if he couldn't accept that. So we broke up. At least I found out early in the relationship."

Lavender sighed, "Kids complicate relationships. You singles don't understand. Enjoy the sex now when your vaginas are still perfect.""

Hermione looked at her disgusted, "Lavender, too much information."

"I'm just saying, a watermelon coming out of a pea-sized hole… nothing goes back the same," Lavender stated.

"Try pushing out two of them," Luna stated, "I agree with Lavender."

Hermione leaned back against the kitchen counter, "Well, I won't have kids for many years until my career is settled, so that isn't a problem right now."

Susan leaned beside her, "But you are already Department Head. How much more settled can you get?"

"I could move up further. I already have to juggle so much with Teddy, and that's just part-time. Having a child of my own," Hermione bit her lip, "Would just complicate things, and I'm so exhausted. Definitely more in the future."

"Well, in 11 years, Hogwarts will have three alumni kids now with Dominique, Lorcan, and Lysander. Who do you think is next?" Ginny asked, sitting at the kitchen table.

"Of this group?" Luna asked, "Or of Dumbledore's Army? Because someone is already pregnant."

Ginny rolled her eyes, "Other than Angelina and George."

Luna looked at her, "It will be another Weasley. The wave of DA babies won't start until 2006, but 2008 will be the biggest class."

Padma looked at Hermione, "Is she serious?"

Hermione shrugged, "She's been eerily right on many things."

"I'm not a seer, but I can do your Tarot cards for you. They give an answer to a lot of things," Luna told them, "I predicted Lorcan and Lysander's birthday and gender through them."

Pansy stared at Luna, "Alright then, who in this room will be pregnant next?"

Luna looked around the room, "Susan."

Susan choked on her drink, "Excuse me?!"

"The future is not fixed, but one future shows you having a child in the next three years," Luna stated.

"Not bloody likely," Susan stated, coughing, "I like Ron and all, but I can't see myself marrying and having kids with him yet."

Harry walked into the kitchen, laughing, and paused. He looked around and saw all the girls in the kitchen. "Hey."

"It's too much girl energy for Harry," Ginny joked as she walked over and kissed him, "Good thing Weasleys rarely produce girls."

Harry shook his head as Ginny walked out of the kitchen, and he walked over to the refrigerator.

"Doesn't she realize her logic is horrid now? The only two grandchildren so far have been girls!" Hermione stated.

"Two girls and a boy," Angelina stated.

Harry looked at her, "Who is the… oh."

Harry jumped out of the way as all the women approached Angelina, excited about the impending baby boy. Harry looked at Hermione, "I nearly got trampled."

Hermione grinned, "Get out of here while you can."

Later that night, when heading to bed, Hermione put the books she had received for Christmas on the shelf of her bedside table where her to-read section was. All but one would easily go in, so she got down on her knees to see what was back there and pulled out the glittering pink bottle.

Biting her lip, she stared at the bottle and set it on the table. Sliding the remaining book into place, she went downstairs to finish getting ready for bed. Returning to her room, she shut the lights off and climbed into bed. Reaching over, she picked up the bottle, opened it, and drank it.

Waiting momentarily, she tried to figure out if she felt any different. Disappointed when she felt nothing. She shrugged and then laid down to sleep.

"Nox"

The next morning, Hermione walked downstairs and opened a roll of cinnamon rolls. Taking them out and putting them into the pan, she baked them for the allotted time while looking at the directions for the recipe she wanted to try tonight. When the timer went off, Hermione pulled them out of the oven and started icing them, covering her hands with sticky icing.

"Whatcha making?"

Hermione glanced back at Harry, "Cinnamon rolls. I figured it was a good idea for Boxing Day. They are extra gooey," She told him waving her fingers covered in icing.

Harry walked over, took her hand in his, and stared at her.

"What?" Hermione asked, confused, and then couldn't hold back her moan as his mouth enveloped one of her fingers, his tongue running over the surface of her skin, licking it clean.

"Hmm, tasty. I need another bite," Harry said as he took another in his mouth until all her fingers were licked clean. Licking his lips, he looked at her, "Best thing you've ever cooked."

"Baked," Hermione squeaked out, terribly aroused.

Harry reached behind her and grabbed a cinnamon roll.

"Careful, they are still hot," Hermione warns.

Harry takes a bite and moans, "Try a bite." He stated, holding it to her mouth.

Hermione takes a bite, icing dripping from the hot roll onto her mouth, chin, and neck, "Mmm, good."

"We can't have you so messy," Harry stated as he set the roll on the counter, leaned down, and licked the small amount of icing that had dripped onto her chest and neck, then licked at her lips.

Hermione felt her mind shut down with Harry's mouth on her own. Suddenly, she and Harry were tearing each other's clothes off, and she found herself half bare on the off-white kitchen floor, dress around her neck as Harry lavished attention on her breasts covered in icing. Harry's free hand pawed at her other breast where his mouth was not licking clean, and she could not help it when her body trembled, feeling her knickers grow slick between her legs.

Harry lifted his gaze to meet hers, grasping at her hips, pulling her tight against his growing erection. The act of it rubbing through her dress and panties felt as if a lifetime of longing was being released. Harry growled into her ear, "Do you want me to resist?" He nuzzled her neck before gently running his teeth over the sensitive skin.

Her gasp vibrated through them as she thrust her hips into his for friction.

His hand moved down from her breast, lighting fire to her skin as it traced down her stomach before slipping beneath the fabric of her knickers. Not giving her time to catch her breath, he flicked at her clit.

Hermione's fingers grabbed onto his arm, her nails digging into his flesh, "Oh fucking hell. Harry, I've wanted this for so long."

Her admission seemed to stir something within him as he plunged one, then two, fingers inside her. Their rhythmic thrusts were aided by his tongue as he bruised her lips in a kiss. Hermione felt her body pulsing in a way it had never before as she rapidly found herself heading for the peak.

As her legs started to tremble, Harry withdrew his fingers from her warmth, causing her to groan in disbelief and then gasp as Harry licked his fingers clean, "Hmmm, better than icing."

Locking his eyes on her, he slowly slipped her knickers from her body. Kneeling before her, Harry unbuckled his belt, biting his lip as he let his trousers fall to the ground. His cock springing free from his trousers the moment it was clear stood at full attention.

Hermione watched as he grabbed the base and guided the head between her thighs, stroking her. Shuddering, she reached down to stroke him, and his resolve broke as he nearly crumbled down on her.

"You like that?" Harry growled.

"Oh yes," Hermione moaned as he pressed himself harder against her as the head of his cock met her entrance and her eyes fluttered shut. Reaching up to grab the back of his head, she pulled him down, "I want you to watch me come."

As if on command, his hips bucked, thrusting forward as he buried himself in her warm heat. Hermione's back arched off the sticky floor as her head hit the floor with a long moan. Above her, Harry panted bracing himself on his arms. Sparks flying across them like lightning.

"Hold nothing back," Hermione commanded as he began thrusting inside her. Her body contorted as he pounded deeper and harder than she had ever had with Ron.

"You are so fucking tight," Harry moaned.

"Oh, I'm dreaming of you again. If I weren't dreaming and you would be really here, then I would tell you I love you," Hermione gasped.

Harry pulled her into another bruising kiss, "This is no dream, and I love you too. I've loved you forever."

Slamming into her, Hermione clenched down on him, causing him to falter his movements, "Fuck me harder!"

Harry's fingers met her clit as he kissed her neck. One of her hands found its way into his sweaty hair as the other slid on a combination of sweat and icing on the tile. Gasping as Harry's other hand found her nipples pinching hard, she found her release on its brink.

Crying out as her release hit her hard, tremors raced through her body as it crashed in waves of pleasure, her walls squeezing him as she came.

Hermione's eyes fluttered open, her breath ragged as she gazed at the ceiling. Instead of seeing Harry over her, she saw her bedroom ceiling. The hand not holding the Fantasy potion clutched at her chest as it heaved, the empty bottle falling from her sweaty fingers onto the floor.

"Fuck."

a/n: *runs*

shouts from the distance* You guys are amazing! 300 kudos now! KriNihilSyraxCyraxes, Iopenattheclose23, Pamplemousse83, SuperBek25, Airwalker27 and 8 guests

slowly inches my way back* Now before the engagement upsets you... I will give a spoiler alert... they will be officially over by 2005. I've posted about it on my Tumblr so I will share that tidbit with you all too. Don't forget to follow me there, I give sneak peeks of chapter titles and banners on it. Find me on Tumblr at @siriuslyprincesssarah

Preview of Chapter 28: Come Back, Be Here (2004)

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."