Disclaimer – It has come to my attention recently that I unfortunately do not own Harry Potter. Who knew.
To everyone planning on celebrating National Noodle Day, I wish you an enjoyable holiday and just want to let you know I'll be celebrating right there with you! And to everyone else I would imagine tomorrow's National Chocolate Covered Pretzel Day might be at least as fun! But no matter how you spent your days, I hope you are all still having a wonderful weekend.
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Harry woke up on Boxing Day with a smile that seemed to stretch from ear to ear. He lay there for a moment, savoring the warmth that flooded his chest as memories of the previous night washed over him. The Yule Ball had been everything he'd hoped for, but at the same time, it had been so much more. The way Hermione had looked in her dress, her smile as they'd danced together, the way her eyes had sparkled with joy ... and, of course, their first kiss under the stars. He remembered the soft brush of her lips, the light scent of her hair, and the way the moment had seemed to stretch on forever.
But what really had him smiling now, was the memory of when they had finally made it back to the dorm room she had whispered "goodnight" in his ear before heading up the stairs to her dormitory before she had frozen on the stairs and she had turned around and come back. Just as she had been about to disappear up the stairs, Hermione had stopped, turned around with a determined look on her face, ran back to him, and kissed him again—this time longer, more confident, and initiated by her. It was as if she wanted to make sure that first kiss hadn't been a dream for either of them.
Harry lay in bed for a while, replaying every detail of that second kiss over and over in his mind. He wasn't sure how long he stayed there, smiling as he looked at the top of his bed, before finally deciding to get up. The sun was already creeping through the curtains, casting a soft light across the room. He swung his legs over the side of the bed and stretched.
After a morning shower, he dressed quickly, pulling on some comfortable clothes, not bothering too much with his appearance—his mind still pleasantly distracted by thoughts of Hermione. As he descended the spiral staircase into the Gryffindor common room, he expected to find it completely empty. It was Boxing Day, after all, and most students would probably be sleeping in after the excitement of the Ball.
But to his surprise, Ron was already there.
Ron was sitting on one of the big, cushy chairs near the fireplace, staring blankly at the wall, a ridiculously large grin plastered on his face. His arms were resting on the armrests, and his whole posture radiated contentment, as if nothing could ruin this moment for him.
"Ron?" Harry called, but Ron didn't seem to hear him. His eyes remained fixed on the wall, the goofy grin unmoving.
"Oi, Ron!" Harry tried again, louder this time.
Ron finally blinked and turned his head, the smile on his face somehow growing even wider. He looked almost dazed.
"Harry!" Ron said dreamily, his voice a bit distant as if he hadn't fully come back to reality yet. "Mate ... I had the best night."
Harry chuckled, intrigued. "Yeah? You seemed to be having a good time with Lavender. Did things go well?"
Ron's face turned a bit red, but the grin didn't leave his face. "Yeah, Lavender was ... well, she was brilliant. And well," Ron continued, leaning forward a bit, "we ended up dancing the whole night. Proper dancing, too. None of that awkward shuffling about. And afterward ... well, we, uh, found a spot behind one of the tapestries." He grinned sheepishly, clearly pleased with himself.
Harry raised his eyebrows, amused. "Behind a tapestry, huh?"
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The rest of the Christmas break passed in a peaceful blur for Harry. After the excitement of the Yule Ball, things had quickly settled into a comfortable rhythm. He spent most of his days lounging in the Gryffindor common room with Ron and Hermione, usually just Hermione, or wandering the grounds of Hogwarts with her when the weather wasn't too brutal. The snow had fallen thickly around the castle, transforming the grounds into a winter wonderland, and while many students took advantage of the holiday to relax and recuperate, Harry felt something new and refreshing in his daily life—a sense of contentment.
His relationship with Hermione was blossoming, and they were spending more time together than ever before. There were no grand declarations or painfully awkward moments; they simply seemed to fall into step with each other, as if their bond had always been there. Hermione who had often sat beside him during meals, seemed to sit even closer, and their study sessions had taken on a different energy, one filled with quiet smiles and occasional touches, as their hands would brush across the table.
To Harry's relief Ron honestly didn't seem to mind either. If anything, he seemed to have his hands full with Lavender, who was increasingly becoming a regular presence in their lives. Harry had caught them sneaking out of the common room together several times, grinning like teenagers caught in the midst of some mischief. Harry figured that as long as Ron was happy, things were fine, and there didn't seem to be any tension between him and Hermione.
When classes resumed in early January, the castle came back to life. The hallways were once again filled with chatter and laughter, and the pressure of schoolwork returned. Harry felt a certain weight lift from his shoulders now that the Triwizard Tournament wasn't consuming his every thought. He'd already solved the mystery of the golden egg, which had been nagging at him for weeks, and that meant he could focus on other things—namely, his growing relationship with Hermione.
They settled into a routine: mornings in the Great Hall for breakfast, days of classes together, and evenings spent in the Room of Requirement, library, or the common room. Every so often, Harry caught himself staring at Hermione when she was absorbed in her books, her brow furrowed in concentration. There was something about her determination, her quiet strength, that made Harry feel even more drawn to her. It was comfortable, easy in a way he hadn't expected.
One evening, after dinner, Harry found himself walking through the corridors on his way to the Room of Requirement when he heard Cedric call out to him, as Harry turned around he saw the older boy jogging down the corridor to catch up to him.
"Hey, Harry," Cedric said, catching up to him with a smile on his face.
"Cedric," Harry greeted, nodding. "What's up?"
"You are a hard person to track down, have been trying to find you ever since the Yule Ball but you always seem to disappear. I figured I'd give you a little heads-up about the golden egg," Cedric said, his tone casual but his eyes showing a hint of concern. "It took me a while to work it out myself, and I thought I'd pass on what I know. As a thanks for your help with the dragon."
Harry grinned, and shook his head. "Thanks, you're a good guy Cedric, but I've actually got it figured out already."
Cedric raised his eyebrows, looking impressed. "Really? Of course, you do." He chuckled. "Should've known. You've been handling this Tournament better than I expected, Harry."
Harry shrugged, feeling a bit awkward under Cedric's praise. He was about to say something modest when Cedric's expression shifted slightly, and a mischievous smile tugged at the corner of his lips.
"So, how are things going with Hermione?"
The question caught Harry completely off guard, and before he could stop himself, he felt his face heat up. He opened his mouth to respond, but no words came out. Instead, he stood there, fumbling for an answer as Cedric's grin widened.
"Uh ... well ... we're, you know—" Harry stammered.
Cedric laughed, clearly enjoying Harry's discomfort. "Relax, mate. It's written all over your face." He gave Harry a friendly pat on the shoulder. "Just be good to her. You've got a good thing going."
With that, Cedric winked and walked off, leaving Harry standing there, still red-faced and struggling to regain his composure. As Cedric reached the end of the corridor, he joined Cho Chang, who smiled and waved at Harry before they disappeared around the corner.
Harry stood there for a moment, letting out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding, before shaking his head and smiling slightly as he made his way back to the common room.
As January rolled on, Harry's feelings for Hermione only grew stronger. He found himself wanting to spend more and more time with her, not just studying or going to classes, but doing something different. Something ... official.
It wasn't until one particularly quiet evening in the library that Harry finally worked up the nerve. He and Hermione were seated at their usual table, working through some Transfiguration homework, when Harry glanced over at her. She was scribbling furiously, her hand flying across the parchment, and he couldn't help but smile. There was something about the way she got so absorbed in her work that made Harry admire her even more.
Without thinking, he blurted it out.
"Hermione?"
"Hm?" she said, not looking up from her notes.
"Would you want to go to Hogsmeade with me next weekend?" Harry's voice cracked slightly, but he pressed on. "You know, like ... a proper date?"
Hermione paused, her quill stilling in her hand as she slowly raised her head to look at him. For a moment, she didn't say anything, and Harry's heart began to race.
Harry nodded, feeling suddenly very nervous. "Yeah. I mean ... I know we went to Hogsmeade before and then to the Ball together, but ... this would be different. Just the two of us. We could consider it our second date, maybe."
Hermione's lips curved into a smile, and Harry noticed the faint blush creeping up her cheeks. She looked down for a moment, clearly thinking, before looking back up at him with a twinkle in her eyes.
"I'd love to," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Harry let out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding, feeling a wave of relief and excitement wash over him. "Great. I mean, I'm not sure if it'll be as good as our first date," he added jokingly, "but I'll do my best."
Hermione laughed softly, her blush deepening. "I'm sure it'll be perfect."
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When the weekend finally arrived, the castle was buzzing with the usual excitement of a Hogsmeade trip. Harry met Hermione at the entrance to the Great Hall, where she was waiting for him, bundled up in her winter cloak and scarf. She looked beautiful, her cheeks already pink from the cold, and Harry couldn't help but feel a rush of affection for her.
"Ready?" he asked, offering her his arm.
Hermione smiled, slipping her arm through his. "Ready."
Harry and Hermione set off from the castle, arm in arm, enjoying the chill in the air and the soft crunch of snow beneath their feet. They were soon joined by Ron and Lavender, who were deep in conversation, laughing about something from the night before. Harry had to admit, Ron looked far more confident and comfortable these days—Lavender's presence seemed to suit him.
"Morning," Ron greeted with a broad grin, giving Harry a knowing look. "Ready for a fun day, eh?"
"Absolutely," Harry replied, glancing over at Hermione, who was smiling warmly, her scarf wrapped snugly around her neck.
The four of them had agreed to walk together as far as the Durmstrang ship, where Ron and Lavender would be meeting up with Parvati, Padma, Viktor Krum, and one of Krum's Durmstrang classmates.
As they approached the lake, nearing the Durmstrang ship, they suddenly froze, wide-eyed at what they saw. Viktor Krum was standing on the edge of the ship, wearing nothing but his underwear, as he took a running leap into the icy waters of the Great Lake. With a great splash, he vanished beneath the surface, while Padma and Parvati stood on the shore, clapping and cheering him on, their laughter echoing across the snow-covered grounds.
Ron snorted, clearly impressed. "Blimey! That's one way to start the day."
Lavender giggled, leaning against Ron as they both watched the scene unfold. "I can't believe he did it! He's mad."
Hermione shook her head, but there was an amused smile on her face. "I'm not sure I'd recommend diving into a frozen lake as a form of recreation, but I imagine it might be colder where he is from."
Harry couldn't help but chuckle. "Yeah, I don't care what his reasons are. I think I'll stick to hot chocolate on a day like today."
They bid farewell to Ron and Lavender, who walked toward Parvati and the others, laughing all the while. Harry and Hermione continued on their way, heading into Hogsmeade village. The village was a picturesque sight, with snow-dusted rooftops and festive decorations lining the streets. Enchanted trees along the paths twinkled with magical lights, and faint, cheerful music seemed to drift from the trees themselves.
For the first half-hour, Harry and Hermione strolled through the village, taking in the sights and sounds. They paused to admire the various shop window displays, each decked out with holiday charm. A light snow began to fall, adding to the enchantment of the village.
"This is lovely," Hermione said softly, her arm still linked with Harry's. "Hogsmeade always feels so magical, but today..."
"It does," Harry agreed. "Especially with you."
Hermione smiled up at him, and they shared a quiet moment before Harry suggested they pop into a small shop for hot chocolate. The warmth of the shop embraced them as they stepped inside, and soon they were each holding a steaming mug of cocoa, continuing their walk through the village.
They chatted idly, enjoying the peacefulness of the day. As they passed the Three Broomsticks, however, Harry spotted a familiar figure coming out from behind the pub. Ludo Bagman, looking flustered but trying to appear composed, hurried over to them.
"Harry! Hermione ... wasn't it?" Bagman greeted them with exaggerated enthusiasm, his hands clasped together as if he were about to deliver some grand news. "Lovely to see you both out and about. Enjoying Hogsmeade, are you?"
Harry raised an eyebrow. "Yeah, we are. What are you doing here?"
Bagman glanced around nervously, as if ensuring they weren't being overheard, then leaned in closer. "Well, I just wanted to mention ... er, ... nothing. Just dealing with the business about Bertha Jorkins? Still missing, you know. Awfully concerning, that. And trying to get wind of it before the news gets wind of it. You haven't heard anyone talking about it have you?"
Hermione looked at him, a confused look on her face. "No, we haven't heard anything," Hermione said slowly. "Should we have?"
Bagman quickly shifted gears, his expression brightening again. "Oh, right, right. Not your concern! Just thought I'd bring it up ... And on another note—about the Triwizard Tournament! I wanted to offer my assistance, you know, a little extra help. I'm sure it's quite a challenge, and well, Hogwarts ought to win, after all, don't you think?"
Harry blinked, caught off guard by the sudden shift. "Shouldn't you be ... I don't know ... neutral?"
Bagman hesitated, then gave a sheepish grin. "Technically, yes, but I've always had a soft spot for Hogwarts. Don't want to see you lot fall behind, eh?"
Harry narrowed his eyes slightly. "Thanks, but I've got it sorted out already."
Bagman's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? Well, that's terrific news, my boy! Happy to hear it! You'll do Hogwarts proud, I'm sure of it."
With that, he gave them a broad smile and strolled away, looking far too pleased with himself. Harry turned to Hermione, shaking his head.
"What was that about?" Hermione asked, frowning as she watched Bagman disappear down the street.
"No idea," Harry muttered. "But he's definitely a character."
Hermione shivered slightly in the cold, and Harry noticed immediately. "You want to go inside and grab a drink to warm up?"
She smiled, her cheeks still rosy from the cold. "That sounds like a terrific idea."
They made their way into the Three Broomsticks, the warm air inside a welcome contrast to the chilly winds outside. The pub was bustling with familiar faces. Harry spotted Fred and George sitting with Lee Jordan, whispering about something that that Harry had to imagine involved some form of prank. Daphne Greengrass, Blaise Zabini, and Tracey Davis were seated at a nearby table, looking unusually friendly and cheerful for Slytherins.
Luna Lovegood was perched at a table with Neville Longbottom, who looked deeply engrossed in whatever wild creature Luna was talking about. Harry caught the phrase "Blibbering Humdinger," and smiled. Luna was as delightfully strange as ever, and Neville seemed to be taking it in stride.
Harry and Hermione found a recently vacated table in the corner of the room, and Harry went up to the bar to grab drinks. Madam Rosmerta greeted him with a friendly smile, and he returned to the table with two butterbeers in hand. Hermione looked up at him, her eyes bright.
They talked about small things—schoolwork, the potential of getting her on a broom once it warmed up, the upcoming second task of the Tournament.
Just as they were finishing their drinks, Harry noticed someone familiar making their way to the door. Mary McDonald was making her way across the room with a package under her arm. He waved, catching her attention, and her eyes grew wide when she saw them.
She hurried over to their table, leaning down slightly. "Are you two here because you've heard the news?"
Harry and Hermione exchanged confused glances. "What news?" Harry asked.
Mary hesitated for a moment, glancing around the room as if she wasn't sure whether to say more. Finally, she leaned in closer. "I think Padfoot would prefer to tell you himself."
Harry's heart skipped a beat. Sirius. Something big was happening.
Without another word, Mary straightened up and left, leaving Harry and Hermione staring at each other in shock and anticipation.
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Story Note 1 - This was a little bit of a shorter chapter after what happened with the previous couple chapters but didn't want to run into what was coming up. Sorry about the cliffhanger :)
Story Note 2 – Well after Harry had just about a perfect night, I am betting he's happy that Ron sure seemed to have a good night as well.
Story Note 3 - This chapter was a little shorter than usual, but half because last one was larger and this chapter was mostly to show that unlike some fics where everytime Harry takes one step forward he immediately has something happen that sends him two steps backwards. While there will be something that is coming up that will ... potentially rock the boat or at least make for some trouble for Harry, sometimes it is nice to read something where the protagonist actually manages to catch a break. Plus didn't want to stress out their new relationgship too early. They'll certainly have enough to deal with later on.
Story Note 4 - The final reason this chapter was a little shorter was that the ending was just too perfect not to end on the cliffhanger. And for that I apologize. After a couple chapters that had such nice endings, I felt this felt right. That being said, what could have happened to Sirius? Any guesses? Or might this have been good news? Hope you are looking forward to the next chapter!
Thanks to those of you out to those of you who enjoy my stories, I promise to keep updating the stories as long as you enjoy them, and a special thanks to those of you who have taken the time to leave feedback or reach out to me directly.
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I just want to start off by thanking everyone for the feedback I received for the previous couple of chapters. I'm actually blown away!
TheLoneDoctorV11, RaiDaniels, OfInkAndQuill, cameron1812, Lucy Elizabeth Dawson, KYKid942, Hudy LEak613, jkarr, Ariadne Venegas - I'm so glad you liked the chapter and am happy you are enjoying the story so far!
Hands Off MY Wolfie - I felt that certainly the Ball had the potential to be a big moment, hope you liked it. I imagine that Hermione's choice of dress color could have been influenced by Harry. I guess we will see how Rita reacts, might need to give her something.
rishi547 - So glad you are enjoying the story and there will certainly be a rewrite at some point. This was the first story I had started writing and the way I write conversations has certainly changed. So at the very least at some point I will at least go back and update how I portray conversations.