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Chapter 10: Fifth Year Part 2

Hermione settled into life at Grimmauld quite easily. She spent her days helping deep clean the parts of the house that hadn't been touched yet, and she was never more thankful that Remus was a proficient defense teacher when she had to deal with multiple doxy nests spread throughout the house. She had been spending more time with Remus and Sirius since she had offered to clean out the library. Apparently that was their room of choice to hang out in, and she often found them lounging on the sofas with a cup of tea. Hermione enjoyed listening to stories about their school days, and she found that Remus was a great companion for intellectual conversations.

She was pleased when Dumbledore had pulled her aside after dinner one night to inform her that Oliver had been inducted into the Order and would be coming around more frequently. Hermione was both proud and nervous for Oliver to join. He had eased her fears when he explained that most of his work would involve making contact with potential allies internationally since he traveled so much with the team. He had made it a point to head to Grimmauld after he got done training for the evening, and he and Hermione would often spend the evening at the manor before he brought her back.

Hermione was tired of fielding all of the questions that Ron threw at her about why she should get to leave with an order member daily. He seemed almost jealous that she was spending so much time away from Grimmauld with Oliver, but she chalked it up to the fact that he wasn't able to leave the house. Hermione relished the moments away from the house with Oliver. As much as she enjoyed the Weasleys and all of the other members of the order, she found that quiet time with Oliver where it was just the two of them was very much needed. She appreciated that even on days when Oliver was also exhausted, he still would pick her up in order to make sure they spent time together. She loved that he would grab her hand and pull her down onto the couch. They would often turn on a movie, and it wouldn't even be halfway through before Oliver's breathing evened out beneath her. She would lay her head on his chest, and the steady beat of his heart would lull her to sleep as well.

There were some nights that they fell asleep on the couch and didn't wake until morning. The first time that Oliver brought Hermione back to Grimmauld in the light of day, they entered to see Mrs. Weasley pacing the kitchen. She looked up to find Hermione and Oliver and she raced over. "Where have you been?" she cried.

"It was me fault, Molly," Oliver said as he stepped in front of Hermione, "we fell asleep, an' A didnae get her back."

Molly gave Hermione a look that could have killed as she said, "I think it's wholly inappropriate for her to be spending the night with you while she's underage."

Hermione's blood boiled beneath her skin, but before she could retort Sirius' bark laugh sounded from behind them, "Oh yeah, Molly, let's act like you and Arthur weren't sneaking off to corners of the castle while you were still in school."

Molly's face heated as she said, "That is besides the point. We didn't know Hermione was going to be gone so long, and she's not old enough."

"Actually, I think I'm plenty old. I'll technically be of age in September."

"You'll only be 16," Molly snapped.

"17 with the extra year that I got from the time turner."

Molly was speechless for a moment before she continued, "You and Oliver still should not be alone at his house unsupervised. I can't believe that Dumbledore authorized such a thing."

Hermione laughed, but it was Oliver that said, "Not tha' it's anyone's business, but Hermione an' A have been taegether fer nearly a year."

"You're with HIM?!" came a cry from behind them.

Hermione turned around to see Ron standing in the doorway. His ears were already starting to turn red, and Hermione knew that an explosion was on its way. She turned to Oliver and gave him a quick peck on the cheek, "You need to get to practice. I'll handle this."

He gave her hip a quick squeeze before he gathered his broom and training robes and headed towards the front door. Hermione watched him go before she turned back to Ron. He was still seething as he looked at her. "How did I not know that you were dating Oliver Wood?"

"Well, to be fair we didn't really tell anyone that we were in a relationship."

"I'm supposed to be your best friend! When were you planning on breaking the news?"

Fred popped up right behind him and said, "They've been fairly obvious for the last few years you know."

"Right you are brother," said George, "If only our little brother used his head."

"He probably would have seen what was right in front of him." finished Fred.

Hermione heaved a sigh as the twins' words only fueled Ron's anger. She met her friend's eyes and said, "You weren't interested in talking to me about anything other than the fact that my relationship with Viktor was traitorous."

Ron stuttered, but Hermione cut him off, "When you're ready to talk about this in a calm manner without saying something you'll regret, come find me."

She turned from the room and headed up the stairs to the room that she shared with Ginny. When she entered, she saw Ginny sitting on her bed reading a copy of the latest Witch Weekly. "How's your morning?" Ginny asked. Hermione groaned and face planted onto her bed. Ginny laughed, "That well, huh?"

Hermione turned her face towards Ginny and said, "Your mum and Ron announced my relationship with Oliver to the whole world and Molly thinks I'm a slag for sleeping at his house."

Ginny closed her magazine and turned to face Hermione, "That is incredibly rough," she said, "I'm sure that mum was just surprised to learn you're already in such a serious relationship. If she knew about the soul bond I'm sure she would be more understanding."

Hermione flung her head back into her pillows and let out a muffled, "I hope Dumbledore tells them soon enough so that we can go back to how it was before I came here."

Ginny looked at her friend with sympathy. It had to be hard having a soulmate and not spending very much time with them because you're both busy and one of you has incredibly overbearing adults surrounding you. Hermione was given a moment's reprieve before Molly came bustling in to give assignments for the cleaning that needed to happen that day.

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It took Ron four days to get over himself and approach Hermione. When he finally knocked on her bedroom door, his face was already red. He mumbled out an apology for how he acted and asked if she would forgive him. Hermione pulled her friend in for a hug. "I'm glad that we're finally over that," she said as she pulled away.

Ron nodded his head and took a seat next to her on her bed, "Why didn't you tell me sooner?"

Hermione shrugged her shoulders as she said, "Finding my soulmate was a bit of a shock. Oliver and I have always been close, but we decided to keep it quiet for a while."

Ron accepted this answer and moved the conversation onto Harry, "I wish that I could write to Harry."

"Why haven't you?" she asked.

"Dumbledore said that we couldn't tell him anything until he was moved to headquarters."

Hermione narrowed her eyes, "Why would he say that? Doesn't he know how hard it is for Harry to be with his relatives? They're horrible to him!"

Ron's face fell, "I know they are. I haven't written to him all summer, and it's not like any owl post is going to get to him."

"Do you know when they're planning on bringing him here?" she asked.

Ron shook his head, "I'm not sure they have a specific date yet. Sirius has been yelling about it for weeks that he should have come here right after he got off the Express."

"I just don't think I can keep him out of the loop. He'll go stir crazy if he thinks everyone has abandoned him."

"I agree, but how are you going to get a message to him? We haven't been able to use the owls all summer."

Hermione smiled as an idea popped into her head, "You leave that to me."

Later that evening found Hermione and Oliver sitting at his kitchen table. "Oliver?" she asked.

"Yes, love?"

"Would you be willing to help me with something?"

Oliver looked up from his dessert to see Hermione worrying her lip between her teeth. "Are ye alright?" he asked.

Hermione nodded her head, "I just found out that Dumbledore has kept everyone from writing to Harry all summer, and I don't think it's right."

Oliver set his fork down as he leveled a gaze at Hermione, "A'm sure he had his reasons," he said delicately.

Hermione took a deep breath, "I'm sure he thought he was doing the right thing," she said, "but he isn't thinking about how horrible this will be for Harry. No one has even written to him to let him know that Cedric is mostly recovered."

Oliver nodded his head in understanding and said, "A can see yer point, love, but what do ye want to do aboot it? Ye can't exactly send him an owl."

Hermione smiled then, "I want you to take me to the muggle post office. I know his address, and I know he has to get the mail. If I send him a letter through muggle post, he should get it."

Oliver let out a laugh, "Of course ye would have a solution befere ye asked mae."

A blush settled on Hermione's cheeks, "Will you go with me then?"

Oliver nodded, "Aye, an' hoo are ye planning on getting a response?"

"Well," Hermione began, "I was actually wondering if you would let me use your address. Since this house is originally muggle, it will be part of the postal system. You can place the mailbox at the edge of the property line outside the wards, and then we can just collect any correspondence."

"Ye realize if the Order found oot aboot this we could be in real trouble, right?" he asked.

"I know that," she said, "I just can't stand the thought of Harry being all alone. He feels isolated as it is."

"Do ye have the letter already?"

Hermione nodded, "It's in my bag."

"We can go after dinner," he said.

Hermione was so excited she jumped from her seat and ran around the table. She threw her arms around Oliver and began to pepper his face and neck with kisses. "Thank you!" she cried.

Oliver laughed as he said, "Yer welcome."

Hermione sat back in her seat and couldn't wipe the smile off her face as she and Oliver finished their meal. When they were done, Oliver took her by the hand and led her to the apparition point. He wrapped her in his arms, and as Hermione settled in his embrace she couldn't help but think that she couldn't have gotten a better soulmate.

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A week had passed since Oliver had taken Hermione to deliver her letter to Harry. She still hadn't heard anything from him, and she was starting to worry. Did he not receive the letter? Was he angry with her for not writing sooner? She was sitting at the table in the kitchen at Grimmauld contemplating all of these things when Dumbledore walked in. Hermione immediately stood as soon as she noticed him.

"Good morning, sir," she said.

"Miss Granger," he replied, "how has the summer been faring for you?"

"It's been alright so far," she replied.

"How are you and Mr. Wood?" he asked.

Hermione halted slightly at the question, "We're fine, sir. Why do you ask?"

Dumbledore looked at her over the top of his spectacles as he said, "Well you see, I've been doing some research into your situation. I believe I have found some information that is pertinent to you both."

Hermione raised her eyebrows in shock, "What kind of information, sir?"

Dumbledore merely smiled and pulled an old and worn book from the pocket of his robes, "I believe you'll find this book very enlightening. Be sure to read it as soon as possible. I will be back to speak with you and Mr. Wood in a few days."

Hermione didn't get a chance to ask him anything more before he strode from the kitchen. She turned the book over in her hands before opening the cover. The book was titled Soulmates and the Power Within. Hermione was nervous and excited to have the opportunity to learn more about her bond with Oliver. She had researched it after Dumbledore had first explained it to them, of course, but she found the Hogwarts library was lacking. She didn't know where Dumbledore had gotten this book, but she knew that it would be important to whatever plan he had for her and Oliver.

Oliver arrived at Grimmauld later that night, but Hermione wasn't downstairs. He ventured up to her room and knocked gently before poking his head inside. He found Ginny sitting on her bed reading a magazine, and he spoke up, "Have ye seen Hermione?"

Ginny looked up from her reading material and said, "I think she's in the library. She's been in there all day with some book she got from Dumbledore."

Oliver thanked her and closed the door. He headed up to the next floor towards the library. He entered and found Hermione curled up on the couch. She had a book closed on her lap, but she was staring into the fire. Remus rose from the chair across from her and approached Oliver. He clasped a hand on his shoulder and said, "I think she's in a bit of shock."

Oliver gave Remus a confused look before he went to stand in front of Hermione. He blocked her view of the fireplace. When she still didn't look up at him, he kneeled in front of her. He took her hand in one of his and said, "Hermione, are ye with mae?"

This seemed to shake her out of whatever daze she had been in. Her eyes cleared and she whispered, "Oliver?"

He met her halfway as she leaned towards him. He wrapped his arms around her and whispered into her hair, "A'm here, love."

Hermione tightened her arms around his neck and pulled herself as close as possible. He scooped his arm under her legs and stood. He turned and sat in her spot on the couch and situated her on his lap. Hermione still had a tight hold on him, and he started to rub circles into her back in an effort to calm her. When her muscles finally loosened up and she relaxed into him, Oliver asked, "What happened?"

Hermione took a deep breath and said, "Dumbledore gave me a book on soulmates."

"Isn't that a good thing?" he asked, "It sure would explain our bond since we don't know much aboot it."

"It gave me a lot of information," she said, "it outlined what kind of power we could gain from the bond."

"Power?" he questioned.

Hermione nodded, "I think that's why Dumbledore gave it to me. I think he wants us to become some sort of weapon."

Oliver's brow furrowed, "Hoo would we become a weapon?"

"It depends on the bonded couple," Hermione said, "but we could see an increase in our connection as well as see an increase of our power."

Oliver thought back to when he felt a surge of power in order to protect her. He had originally thought that it was just adrenaline, but now he was wondering if it was the bond. "What does that look like?" he asked.

"We could potentially have a telekinetic connection, and the increase in our power can come in many different forms. There has been documentation of fire wielders as well as people who could manipulate bodies of water. From what I can tell, any power would be elemental."

Oliver considered what she had just told him. Being able to communicate with each other without words was an interesting development. He wasn't sure how he felt about the possibility of having the ability to manipulate natural elements. "Hoo do we know if we have these powers?" he asked.

"Well, we already know that our personal connection is strong since we can feel each other's emotions. From what I've gathered, the rest of the potential increases would only emerge once the bond has been completed."

"Hoo do we complete the bond?"

Heat rushed to Hermione's face, "Well," she stuttered, "we actually have to…um…well we have to have intercourse." By the time she rushed out the last part of the sentence her face was so red she looked like an angry Weasley.

"Oh…well A want ye tae know that A'm not interested in losing our virginity because Dumbledore thought it was time."

Hermione looked up at him from beneath her lashes and said, "That's something you want to do? With me, I mean."

Oliver let out a laugh and tucked a lock of her hair behind her ear, "Af course it is. A don't want tae rush us, but make no mistake. A will take ye tae me bed."

Hermione smiled at his declaration and leaned in to kiss him, "I think that sounds like a wonderful plan."

When Dumbledore returned to Grimmauld a week later, Hermione was nervous that he would demand she complete the bond. She had admitted to herself that she loved Oliver, but she didn't think they were quite there yet. When Dumbledore had requested that she and Oliver accompany him into the library, she was shaking with nerves. Oliver led her into the room with a hand on the small of her back. They moved over to the couch sitting opposite of the chair that Dumbledore already occupied.

"Thank you for joining me," he said, "I trust that you have finished the book I gave you?"

"Yes, sir," Hermione replied.

"Good," Dumbledore said, "I had to go through great lengths to procure that book."

"I appreciate the effort, sir," whispered Hermione.

Dumbledore looked at the couple over his spectacles and said, "I researched it, and it appears you are the first soulbound couple to emerge in centuries."

Hermione was a little shocked by this revelation. She knew that soul bonds were rare, but she didn't think they were that rare.

"Hoo do ye know?" asked Oliver, "A can't imagine people go around spreading the information."

"You're quite right. However, when the bond is completed, there is a burst of magic that is quite strong. It has always been recorded by the ministry when acts of magic such as this occur."

Hermione's face heated at the thought that the ministry would record the burst of magical energy that was created the first time she and Oliver had sex. "Is there a way to hide the magical signature?" she asked.

"Yes I've thought of that," he said, "I've developed special wards that I will share with Mr. Wood that should keep any large bouts of magical energy hidden from the ministry."

Hermione let out a breath of relief, "Thank you, sir."

"It's going to be most helpful when the two of you begin practicing."

"What are we supposed to practice?" Oliver asked.

"I thought that would be obvious," Dumbledore chuckled, "If you are to manifest power over the elements, it makes sense that you should be able to safely wield that power, does it not?"

"I suppose so," Hermione said, "the bond isn't completed, though, so I doubt we'll need to practice anytime soon."

Dumbledore rose from his chair and said, "All in good time. I'll be in touch to show you those wards."

He strode from the room, and Hermione and Oliver just looked at each other before they too rose and headed towards the apparition point. Hermione took her place in front of Oliver before he spun them away to the manor.

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The next weekend found Hermione lounging with Oliver at the manor. She had taken to spending the weekends at his home rather than Grimmauld, and it was a great relief. She enjoyed swimming at the lake and baking with him on his days off. This particular morning found them laid out on the sofa while he watched a new Disney movie she had recommended and she was reading a book. She looked up from her book when a chime sounded somewhere in the house. "What was that?" she asked.

"A put a ward on the mailbox tae let mae know if any muggle mail was delivered," he responded.

Hermione sat up quickly and turned to look at him, "Can we go get it?" she asked.

"Marvin," Oliver called softly. The elf popped up in front of the sofa and smiled as he saw Oliver and Hermione.

"Master," he nodded, "and Master's Miss. Hows can Marvin be of service?"

"A was wondering if ye would be able tae retrieve the muggle mail? Hermione is expecting a letter."

Marvin popped out of the room and was gone only a few seconds before he returned with a letter clutched in his hand. "Here it is," he said as he handed it to Hermione.

"Thank you Marvin," she said with a smile before he popped away again.

Oliver watched as Hermione quickly tore open the letter. He watched her face light up as she scanned what Harry had written. "He isn't mad at me," she breathed when she looked him in the eye.

"Why would ye think he was mad at ye?" he asked.

"Well, when he didn't respond right away, I wasn't sure what to think. It looks like I'm the only one he's heard from, and he isn't too happy to know that Dumbledore told everyone not to write."

Oliver pulled Hermione's lower lip that she had been worrying between her teeth free as he said, "A'm sure he appreciated the gesture. Do ye need tae reply so we can send it aff?"

Hermione nodded and jumped up from the couch to grab her bag. She pulled a piece of muggle notebook paper and a ball point pen out and began to write. When she was done, Oliver took her to the post office so she could send it. They were about to leave the office when Hermione grabbed his hand. "Do we have to go back so soon? I've been cooped up in that house, and I'd like to do something different."

Oliver ran his thumb over her knuckles as he said, "What do ye have in mind?"

Hermione smiled brightly at him as she said, "There's an ice cream shop just down the street."

Oliver barely got out a 'yes' before Hermione was dragging him out the door.

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Hermione was so relieved when Tonks and Remus arrived at Grimmauld place with Harry before an order meeting. She was in the kitchen when they arrived and raced forward to hug him. Harry barely had time to brace himself before he had his mouth full of the bushy hair that belonged to his best friend. "I'm so glad they got you out of there!" she exclaimed.

"Me too," Harry laughed. He lowered his voice then and leaned down to her ear to say, "Thank you for finding a way to write these last few weeks. It helped me keep my sanity."

Hermione's eyes misted over as she said, "Always, Harry. I'll be here for you."

She was then shoved out of the way by an eager Mrs. Weasley who crushed Harry to her chest. Harry was passed around the occupants of Grimmauld place for hugs before he stood in front of Sirius. Hermione's heart ached for her best friend when she saw the emotion on both his and his godfather's face. Sirius pulled Harry into a rough hug and pounded him on the back. She could see Sirius whispering something into Harry's ear, but she couldn't hear what was being said. Harry pulled back from his godfather before moving over to stand by Hermione's side. "Why don't you dears go on upstairs and I'll call you down for dinner," Mrs. Weasley suggested.

Hermione nodded and turned to lead Harry upstairs. She stopped to point out her and Ginny's room before continuing up to the room that he was going to share with Ron. She caught him up on all of the sensitive information that she wasn't able to share with him in her letters. Harry expressed multiple times how grateful he was that she had attempted to make contact. He told her that his relatives were worse than normal, and after Voldemort's return it was incredibly difficult to have no information. Hermione gave him another hug before she walked into Ron's room. Ron looked up from his quidditch figures and said, "Harry! I didn't know you were coming today, mate." Harry didn't say anything as he moved to put his trunk at the foot of the empty bed in the room.

Ron gave Hermione a questioning look and she just shrugged her shoulders. "Do you want to go talk, Hermione?"

Hermione was about to respond before Ron jumped up from his seat, "Oi! Why do you want to talk to her and not me?"

Harry turned to face Ron as he said with a calm voice, "Hermione is the only one in this room who has acted like the best friend that she is this summer. I haven't heard from the other one."

Ron's face dropped as he said, "That's not fair. You know that Dumbledore told us we couldn't write to you!"

"Hermione still did. Didn't the same rule apply to her?"

Ron shot a glare at Hermione as if this predicament he found himself in was her fault and said, "It's not my fault she's so good at wrapping quidditch stars around her fingers and getting them to do whatever she bloody wants."

Hermione sucked in a breath as Ron's words hit her. Ron's face went white as he realized what he said. He didn't even get the beginnings of an apology out of his mouth before Hermione was rushing from the room.

"You're an areshole," was all Harry said before he turned to go after her.

Harry found her a little while later tucked into an alcove hidden behind a tapestry on the top floor. She was sitting on the ledge of a window staring out of it, and Harry could see the tear tracks on her face.

"Don't listen to him, Hermione," he said.

Hermione didn't look at him as she said, "You weren't here when he found out that Oliver and I are together."

Harry winced as he got a mental image of the blow up that Ron must have had. "No, I wasn't, but that doesn't mean you should listen to him. He's jealous that you bagged one of the hottest quidditch players on the field."

Hermione laughed and Harry was pleased that he was able to bring his friend even a modicum of comfort. "I'm just so tired of people insinuating I'm a slag. Even Mrs. Weasley implied it when I fell asleep at Oliver's."

"Mrs. Weasley has very old values," Harry said, "Anyone who knows you knows that you're not that type of girl, and anyone who knows Oliver knows that he would never take advantage of you."

Hermione wiped more tears from her face as she said, "It's ironic isn't it? People think I'm sleeping my way through famous men, but I'll only ever be with Oliver."

It was Harry's turn to laugh as he said, "I definitely think people have the narrative wrong about you."

Hermione laughed again and was thankful that Harry came to find her. He was the brother she never had, and it was moments like this that made her so glad that he was her best friend. Ron and the Weasley's would always hold a special place in her heart, but Harry was her best friend.

Harry made her budge over on the window sill and placed his arm around her. When Hermione leaned her head on his shoulder he asked, "How are you and the former captain anyways?"

"We're really good," she said, "He said he's going to take me out for a nice date to celebrate our first anniversary before I go back to school."

"I can't believe that you've already been together for a year."

Hermione chuckled, "I know. It's kind of hard to believe." She waited for a few moments before she began again, "Dumbledore thinks that we'll end up with some elemental magic because of the bond."

She felt Harry tense underneath her before he said, "How would that even happen? I've never heard of a witch or wizard being able to do that except Merlin."

Hermione sat up and turned to face Harry, "Apparently they're really rare. From what Dumbledore told us we're the first soul bound couple in at least a century."

Harry let out a long breath, "Wow. Have you told anyone about it?"

Hermione shook her head, "Not very many people know about the bond, and only you know of the potential power increase. Dumbledore said we need to train with it."

Harry furrowed his brow and said, "That sounds to me like you'd be used as some sort of weapon."

Hermione drew her lower lip between her teeth and said, "I'm worried about that too. I think Oliver and I have decided that if the powers do manifest that we're not going to tell Dumbledore about them."

Harry nodded his head, "I think that's an excellent idea. I love Dumbledore, but if this summer has taught me anything it's that he doesn't look out for the well being of individual people."

"I thought so too," Hermione said, "I don't want Oliver and I to get swept away into the greater good."

"I'll do my best to make sure that you come out of this without getting swept away," he said.

Hermione smiled at him before she asked, "Do you think I should tell Ron about the bond and what it could mean?"

Harry seemed to contemplate the question before he shook his head, "I don't think he's ready to handle that right now. From what I've seen of how he treats your relationship with Oliver I can't imagine that he would handle it well."

"I don't understand why he's being such a prat," Hermione huffed.

"Do you want my honest opinion?" Harry laughed.

Hermione looked at him skeptically before she said, "I'm not going to like what you have to say, am I?"

"Nope," Harry said with a smile.

Hermione rolled her eyes and said, "Out with it, then"

"I think that Ron was secretly harboring feelings for you, and your relationship with Oliver put a wrench in his plans."

Hermione scrunched her nose up, "Ew! I wouldn't have wanted to be with Ron even if I hadn't found my perfect match. We fight so much as friends I don't even want to know what a relationship between us would look like."

"I told you that you wouldn't like it," Harry said.

Hermione was about to respond when they heard Mrs. Weasley hollering up the stairs that dinner was ready. "Well, we better head down for dinner," Hermione said.

Harry stood and offered her a hand before sliding the tapestry they were behind out of the way. Hermione dusted off her jeans before she stepped out from their hiding spot and followed Harry down the stairs.

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The last weekend before they were set to head back to school arrived, and Hermione was bursting with excitement. She and Oliver were celebrating their anniversary this weekend, and she couldn't wait for what he had planned. She had been trying to weasel it out of him for the last few weeks, but he was tight lipped about the whole affair. The only hint that he would give her was to dress nice. Hermione was eternally grateful that her mother had forced her to try on nice dresses when they went shopping at the beginning of the summer. She had told her mum that she wasn't sure when she would ever have need of such a dress, but her mum had just brushed her off and told her that every young woman should have a nice dress that they could wear. Hermione hadn't been able to choose between a black v-neck dress that was fitted until the waist and fell down to her knees in layers of chiffon or a skin tight red halter neck. Her mum had insisted that they looked too good on her to pass up and had purchased both. Each dress was now laid out on her bed in Grimmauld while Hermione stood in front of it in a towel having just gotten out of the shower.

Hermione couldn't decide which one she needed to wear, and she was thankful when Ginny entered the room. "You have your big date with Oliver tonight?" Ginny said by way of greeting.

Hermione nodded her head and said, "It's our anniversary, and he told me to wear something nice. I just can't decide between these two."

Ginny approached the bed, "I think you should go with the red one, it's really sexy."

Hermione blushed and said, "You don't think it's too much?"

Ginny laughed, "Hermione, if ever there was a time for you to look hot, I think a romantic date with your longtime boyfriend would qualify."

Hermione chuckled under her breath, "I think you have a point." She moved to place the black dress back in her trunk and said over her shoulder to Ginny, "What about shoes?"

"I'm way ahead of you," she said as she emerged from the wardrobe with a pair of black heels.

"I don't know if I can wear those all night," Hermione said.

Ginny shot her a wide smile as she said, "Don't worry, I've already cast a cushioning and a stabilizing charm on them. You'll feel like you're wearing tennis shoes."

Hermione thanked Merlin that she finally had a girly girl to be friends with, "You're a lifesaver," she said.

"I know," Ginny grinned, "now get your butt in that chair and let me wrangle your hair."

Hermione did what she was told and chatted with the girl as she went to work on her hair. An hour later Ginny had smoothed Hermione's tresses into soft curls that tumbled down her back. She had applied light makeup with a smokey eye, and Hermione had to admit it to herself when she looked in the mirror that she looked good. Ginny had just finished zipping up Hermione's dress when there was a knock on the door. Harry stuck his head inside and said, "Oliver is here for you."

"Thank you Harry," Hermione responded.

Hermione pulled a black sweater out of her trunk as Ginny handed her a black clutch to hold her lipstick and her wand. The two girls turned and started making their way down the stairs. As Hermione approached the bottom, she saw Harry talking with Oliver. Harry noticed her first, and his eyes got wide. Seeing Harry's expression made Oliver turn around, and Hermione smiled as he gaped at her. "Hermione," he breathed, "Ye look…"

"Hot," Ginny finished for him.

Hermione laughed as she reached out for the hand that Oliver held out to her. She stepped off the last stair and Oliver pulled her to him. They stood chest to chest with his arms around her waist. Hermione looped her arms around his neck as he gave her a quick kiss. Hermione looked at him and admired how good he looked. He was in a black muggle suit, and Hermione thought that he looked more handsome than the muggle models that she saw advertising suits like this when she was younger. She recognized that her soulmate was an incredibly attractive man. "You're looking incredibly handsome this evening," she said to him.

"Yeah yeah you both look bloody sexy now get on with your date," Ginny said behind them.

Oliver laughed as he pulled away from her, "I believe we've been given orders," he said as he held out his hand, "care to join me?"

Hermione grabbed his hand and allowed him to pull her out onto the front step. He wrapped her in his arms and disapparated. Hermione was surprised to find out that they were at the manor. Oliver sensed her confusion because he said, "A have a surprise fer ye."

"What kind of surprise?" she asked.

"Ye'll see in a moment. Dumbledore recommended we not go oot in public, so A had tae make a few adjustments tae the evening."

"Why can't we go out in public?" she asked, "We've been going out sporadically all summer."

Oliver's face darkened as he said, "There have been more attacks in remote parts of England. Order policy is that ye should try and have another person with ye when ye go oot. Ye can't use magic outside of school yet, and A wouldnae want anything tae happen tae ye because we were alone."

Hermione was both touched by his concern and incredibly frustrated that she wasn't able to do anything. This year was supposed to be her 16th birthday, but with all the extra time she used the time turner she was actually almost 17. She hadn't asked anyone whether the trace would come off at her magical maturity or her recorded birthday. She made a mental note to ask Tonks or Remus about it the next time she got a chance. Oliver brought her out of her musings when he changed the direction that they were walking. He had brought them around the back of the manor and was guiding them through the gardens. Hermione hadn't spent too much time in the gardens considering there was the lake and the meadow on the grounds. She admired all of the different flowers that they passed by. She admired a patch of lilies in the most vibrant blue she had ever seen. "How were you able to grow blue lilies?" she asked.

Oliver didn't stop walking as he said, "That's actually a question fer Marvin. He was in charge af deciding what tae plant oot here. A wanted tae give him free reign since gardening is one of his favorite things."

"I didn't realize he enjoyed it so much," Hermione said.

"That's alright," Oliver said, "A know ye havenae been able tae talk tae him very much. Maybe if ye spend some af the holidays with mae ye can get tae know him better."

"I'd like that," Hermione said as Oliver pulled her to a stop.

Oliver turned to her with a smile and said, "A need ye tae close yer eyes befere A lead ye tae the surprise."

Hermione raised her eyebrows at him before she complied. He took her by both hands and started leading her towards whatever it was he wanted to show her. "You'd better not run me into anything," she warned him.

Oliver's laugh drifted over her as he said, "A won't. A promise."

Hermione let him lead her a few steps off of the path before she felt him come around to stand behind her. "Alright," he said, "ye can open yer eyes."

Hermione opened them to see the most beautiful set up. "Oh Oliver," she said as she gazed at the magnificent gazebo that stood in front of her. It was circular and white and had intricate pieces of wood creating delicate designs along the top. There were vines with blooming white flowers curling around the posts, but Hermione was mesmerized by the inside. She stepped into the gazebo and looked up to see wisteria hanging from the ceiling with fairy lights interwoven throughout. Oliver stepped up behind her and pulled out a chair to the table that was set for two. She sat down and he helped her scoot in before he took the spot across from her. "This is really beautiful," Hermione said, "Why haven't I seen it before?"

"Well, A put this taegether fer this," Oliver said, "When A moved in, this was run doon, and A havenae had a reason tae fix it up until now."

Hermione's eyes went wide with shock, "You did this just for me?"

"Af course A did," he said, "Marvin helped mae with the flowers, but A wasnae going tae let our first anniversary be ruined because we couldnae go oot fer dinner."

Tears filled Hermione's eyes as she said, "I don't think anyone has ever done anything so thoughtful for me before. Thank you."

Oliver reached across the table to grab her hand and said, "Ye don't have tae thank mae, Hermione. I will always do what A can tae make sure that ye have everything that ye want and deserve."

Hermione beamed at him, and at that moment Marvin popped up next to the table, "I haves yous food Master and Master's Miss."

"Thank you, Marvin," Hermione said as the little elf placed a plate in front of her and Oliver before popping away. "This looks good," Hermione said as she looked at her fettuccine alfredo that was topped with grilled chicken and broccoli.

"A let Marvin decide what we would be having taenight," Oliver said.

"He has excellent taste," Hermione said as she took another bite.

Oliver offered Hermione some wine, and poured her a small amount before filling his own glass. They made easy conversation about the team and how Hermione felt about going back to Hogwarts as they finished their dinner. It was an almost unspoken rule that neither of them would bring up the upcoming war or Dumbledore's request of them. Hermione felt completely content and happy for the first time in what felt like forever as she sat with her other half. When they were finished eating, Oliver offered his hand to Hermione and led her on a walk through the now lit gardens. They set a slow pace and continued their conversation as they wound through the patches of flowers. As Hermione walked, she couldn't think of a more perfect night in her life, and she knew that this was something she wanted for the rest of her life. Almost as if Oliver could read her thoughts he said, "This has been one af the most wonderful nights of me life."

Hermione stepped into him when he pulled her around to face him as she said, "I was just thinking the same thing. You make me happier than I've ever been in my life, Oliver."

Oliver tucked her hair behind her ear as he said, "A actually have something A'd like tae ask ye."

"What is it?" Hermione asked as she looked into his eyes.

"A know that ye don't have any reason tae care aboot pureblood customs because most af them are archaic," he began, "but A think that some af them are important. There are traditions surrounding courtship that A would like tae share with ye if ye'd let mae."

Hermione was a little surprised to see that Oliver was nervous. "Of course I'd love to share them with you," she said, "courtship is considered like dating, right? Haven't we been doing that?"

Oliver let out a breath as he said, "Yes an' no. Purebloods are allowed tae date casually, but they don't enter a courtship unless they see the potential for marriage."

"So, this is the beginning of a marriage proposal?" Hermione asked, confused.

"Hermione, yer me soulmate. A know that A could search the world a million times an' never find another witch like ye. Yer bloody beautiful an' brilliant an' smart an' sexy, an' A wouldn't give ye up fer the world. Most people spend their whole lives searching for something that we have, an' A know that A'm so lucky tae have found me person so young. A don't expect fer us tae get married tomorrow, but A know that there's no other person A would want tae spend me life with. A'm going tae marry ye one day, an' a courtship is the official declaration that ye belong tae mae an' A belong tae ye."

By the time Oliver had finished speaking he had moved away from her and was pacing. "Oliver," Hermione said as she reached for him.

Oliver didn't let her say anything else before he was in front of her once again. He cupped her face in his hands, "A love ye," he whispered.

"I love you too," she said and then he was kissing her. It was one of the kisses that she felt through her whole body. He stole her breath, and Hermione felt like she would never be more complete than when she was in his arms. He pulled away from her and leaned his forehead against hers. He reached into his suit pocket and pulled out a long black velvet box.

He handed it to her and said, "Would you wear this?"

Hermione opened the box and gasped as she saw the bracelet laying on the velvet. It was silver with deep blue sapphires. "It's beautiful," she said.

Oliver smiled at her as he removed it from the box to clasp it on her wrist, "It's a family heirloom. It was last worn by me great grandmother."

"I couldn't take something that's so important," Hermione protested.

Oliver cut her off with another kiss, "Yer more important than everything," he said, "an' A fully intend on making ye a Wood one day, so A don't see a problem with giving ye family jewels."

Hermione blushed at his open declaration. "I guess you have a fair point," she said.

Oliver laughed as he tucked her under his chin. "Do ye want tae go inside?" he asked.

Hermione nodded her head and Oliver spun on the spot. He apparated them into the living room of the manor. When they landed, Hermione kicked off her heels and pulled her jacket from her shoulders. Oliver repeated her actions before he pulled her down onto the couch with him. "When do ye think A should take ye back?" he asked.

Hermione leaned her head against him as her eyes began to get heavy,"I don't want to go back tonight. Can I stay with you?"

"A always keep yer room ready fer ye," he began.

"No," Hermione interrupted, "I want to stay with you."

"Are ye sure?" he asked.

"Yes," Hermione said as she pulled them from the couch and started towards his room.

Oliver grabbed her hand and led her up the stairs. He opened his bedroom door, and Hermione looked around. The walls were navy blue, and all of his furniture was a dark brown. He walked over to his wardrobe and pulled out a t-shirt and some sweatpants and held them out to her, "A can't imagine ye want tae stay in that all night."

Hermione took them from him and gave him a kiss as she made her way into the bathroom. She washed her face and changed into the clothes that Oliver gave her. They were too big, but they were soft and comfortable. When she emerged, she found Oliver sitting up in bed without a shirt. Hermione couldn't help but admire his bared torso. She walked to the other side of the bed and crawled under the covers. Oliver turned off the lights and sank into the bed next to her and opened his arm. Hermione shuffled over until she was able to lay her head on his chest. She slung a leg over his and wrapped her arm around him as she took comfort from his embrace. Oliver dropped a kiss to her hair and whispered, "A love ye, Hermione."

Hermione smiled against him and whispered back an, "I love you too," before she fell off to sleep.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

Unfortunately, Hermione hadn't gotten to spend very much time with Oliver in the last few days before school. His coach had amped up the amount of time that they were required to spend practicing, and this meant he got off later. Hermione had taken to running him a warm bath when they got home and pouring in a cocktail of different potions and oils to help soothe his aching muscles. While he was in the bath, she would check in on dinner with Marvin or make it herself. He would emerge roughly 45 minutes later and they would talk a little over dinner before they made their way up to his room. She had spent every night with him since their date, and she was sad that their routine would be interrupted tomorrow when she had to go back to school. It had been less than a week, but she was already used to sleeping in his arms, and she didn't want to give that up.

Hermione woke up early on September 1st. She rolled over to see Oliver still asleep. She admired how calm he looked and brushed his bangs out of his eyes. She wanted to stay in bed with him all morning, but knew that it wasn't an option. She got out of bed as delicately as possible so as not to wake Oliver and made her way into the bathroom. She turned on the shower and was thankful it heated up so quickly when she stepped into the spray. Hermione took her time just standing under the water and letting it relax her. She would have a long day ahead of her on the train, and she wanted to appreciate the calm before the storm.

When she finally emerged, she found Oliver up and moving around the room. He greeted her with a kiss and a 'good morning'. Hermione headed down to eat the breakfast that Marvin had prepared, and Oliver was right behind her. They didn't speak very much as they ate, and Hermione was trying to tamp down the sadness that was about to overcome her at the thought that she was about to be separated from him for the next four months. Oliver felt her sadness come down the bond, and he wordlessly pulled her from her chair and onto his lap. "A'm going tae miss ye tae, but we'll be okay," he whispered to her.

Hermione nodded and wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned her head on his shoulder. They sat like that until Marvin popped up in front of them. "I'ms sorry to bes interrupting," he said, "but if Master and Master's Miss don't leave now, theys going to bes late for theirs day."

"Thank ye, Marvin," Oliver said before he squeezed Hermione's hip and let her stand. He stood and wrapped her in his arms as he disapparated to Grimmauld. He left stood on the front porch and cupped her face. "A love ye. A'll write as often as A can. Have a safe trip, an' let mae know hoo yer first day was," he said.

"I love you too," Hermione said as she wrapped her arms around his neck, "I'm going to miss you so much."

"A'll miss ye tae," he said as he gave her one last kiss before he opened the door and ushered her inside. She stepped in and closed the door behind her before she heard him pop away. Hermione took a deep breath before she moved further into the house. She had packed her trunk a couple of days ago, so she didn't have any work to do. She decided to make her way up to the boys' room to see if they needed any help. It was only 8:30 in the morning, but they were going to be leaving for King's Cross at 10. Hermione was on her way up to see Harry when she passed by the library. The door was cracked, and she could see Remus sitting by himself in one of the chairs. She decided now would be a good time to ask him about her age with the time turner.

She entered the room and padded over to the chair in front of Remus. She sat quietly for a few moments before he realized she was there and lowered his book. "Hello, Hermione," he said, "How can I help you?"

Hermione took a breath before she began, "Well, I was hoping that you might have some insight into a situation that I'm wondering about."

He leveled her with a gaze, "Is this about your soul bond?"

Hermione was a bit surprised that he talked about it so openly, but she shook her head, "No, it's actually about the trace."

Remus' eyebrows shot up, "Why are you wondering about that? Don't you have a whole year before it comes off?"

"That's actually what I was wanting to ask you about. I'll be officially turning 16 this September, but I was wondering if all of the months that I spent using the time turner would make the trace come off before I'm 17 on paper?"

Remus looked deep in thought as he sat before her. "I imagine it would have to come off before then," he said. "From what I know of the trace, it is placed on you until you're physically 17, but if you were using a time turner, you still would have aged when you were living life twice. How much time was added?" he asked.

"9 months," she said.

Remus nodded his head, "I believe you'll be coming of age in June, then. Congratulations."

Hermione smiled and said, "That's a relief. I'm tired of not being able to use magic outside of school. Thanks for the input."

He gave her a smile as she rose and skipped out of the library. She made her way up to Harry's room with a skip in her step. She decided she should probably start researching how to aparate since she'd be able to do so legally before next summer.

Hermione spent the rest of the time before they went to the station lounging on Harry's bed while he and Ron ran around trying to pack their trunks. When it was time for them to head to the station, Hermione calmly collected her trunk from her room. The ride to Kings Cross was tense, but much of that dissipated when they stepped onto the train. The ride to Hogwarts wasn't very eventful. Hermione and Ginny chatted while Harry and Ron played exploding snap.

When they arrived at the welcome feast, they were not surprised to find a new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor sitting at the table, but they were shocked to see her interrupt Dumbledore as well as announce that she was ministry-appointed. Hermione headed to bed that night with lead in her gut. The ministry was interfering at Hogwarts, and she was sure that nothing good was going to come of it.