Disclaimer – It has come to my attention recently that I unfortunately do not own Harry Potter. Who knew.
To everyone who has been awaiting this day as eagerly as I have ... Happy National Heavenly Hash Day! Is there a more exciting treat? I am unsure but willing to sample them all! And to everyone who is dealing with the snow (people in the Northwest, around the Great Lakes, Canadians, and I guess ... alot of people in Florida, New Orleans, and Louisiana) I hope the groundhog sees its shadow (or doesn't see it's shadow - whichever one means the end of winter). But whatever the case, I hope everyone is doing alright!
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The first rays of morning sunlight streamed through the curtains of the Gryffindor boys' dormitory, casting a golden glow over the room. Harry Potter stretched lazily in bed, a small smile tugging at his lips. Today was not just any day. The thought of having his next date with Hermione filled him with excitement, and he couldn't help but feel a little giddy as he swung his legs out of bed.
"Well you look to be in good spirits, don't you, mate?" Ron grumbled from his bed, rubbing his eyes. "You're usually a little less cheery in the mornings."
Harry chuckled. "Guess it's just one of those days."
"Right," Ron said, sitting up and narrowing his eyes playfully. "This wouldn't have anything to do with a certain bushy-haired someone, would it?"
Harry shrugged, doing his best to look nonchalant. "Maybe."
Ron smirked. "You're hopeless, you know that? Let's get going before all the good sausages are gone."
The two of them dressed quickly and made their way down to the Great Hall, where breakfast was already in full swing. As Harry entered, his eyes automatically sought out Hermione, who was seated at the Gryffindor table with a book propped up against her juice glass. She looked up as they approached, and her face lit up with a warm smile that Harry couldn't help but return.
"Good morning, Hermione," Harry said, sliding into the seat across from her.
"Good morning," she replied, closing her book and giving him her full attention. "Sleep well?"
"Better than usual," Harry admitted. "You?"
She nodded, and they shared a moment of comfortable silence before Ron sat down beside Harry with a loud clatter.
"All right, you two, enough of the lovey-dovey stuff," Ron teased, piling his plate with food. "Some of us are planning to eat."
Hermione rolled her eyes but smiled, and Harry chuckled. Despite the teasing, Harry could tell Ron was genuinely happy for them. It was a good start to the day.
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Later that morning, the trio filed into the Charms classroom. Professor Flitwick was as lively as ever, hopping onto a stack of books to address the class about an advanced charm they'd be practicing which involved charming parchment into simple animated creatures. The desks were soon filled with the sound of quills scratching and murmured incantations as the students got to work.
"Now, remember," Flitwick said, standing on a stack of books to address the class, "precision is key! A poorly cast charm could result in a very confused creature—or worse, a dangerous one!"
Harry, seated next to Ron, glanced over at Hermione, who was already practicing the wand movements with a look of intense concentration. He smiled to himself, then reached for a blank piece of parchment.
As Flitwick busied himself helping Seamus, who had accidentally set his parchment on fire, Harry scribbled a quick note:
Meet me in the common room before dinner. Wear something warm. I've got a surprise planned for our date.
Satisfied, he folded the parchment into a rough rectangle, then paused, an idea sparking. Pulling out his wand from his robes, he began muttering the charm under his breath. The parchment began to shimmer and fold itself into the shape of a small, intricate bird—a beautifully detailed sparrow with a long tail and delicate wings that fluttered as it rose into the air.
Waiting for a moment when Professor Flitwick's back was turned, Harry raised his wand and held it over the bird. With a flick of his wand, Harry sent the enchanted bird gliding gracefully across the classroom to Hermione. She gasped softly as the bird landed softly on her desk and chirped once before unfolding into the original parchment.
Hermione's eyes widened as she read the note, her lips curving into a smile. She glanced over at Harry, her cheeks faintly pink, and he gave her a small nod.
Harry watched as she picked up her quill and jotted something on the parchment. To her astonishment, as soon as she had written her response the parchment refolded itself, this time into the shape of a Snitch, complete with fluttering wings. It lifted off her desk and zipped across the room toward him, drawing gasps and murmurs of amazement from their classmates.
Harry reached out and caught it, grinning as he unfolded it to reveal Hermione's reply:
Can't wait.
Harry laughed softly, glancing around to see his classmates staring at him and Hermione in awe.
Harry's grin widened, but the sound of someone clearing their throat loudly brought him back to reality. "Potter," came Flitwick's voice, snapping Harry eye's to the space in front of his desk. The professor was standing in front of him, arms crossed but a twinkle of amusement in his eyes.
"Care to explain this remarkable display of creativity?"
Harry rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "Er … just a note, Professor."
Flitwick sighed, though he was smiling. "As much as I appreciate the ingenuity, I suppose it's too much to hope that the note was related to class, isn't it?"
Harry glanced at Hermione, who was now trying to suppress a laugh, and shrugged sheepishly before looking back at Flitwick and smiling softly. "Afraid so, sir."
"Well, I'm deducting ten points for passing notes and distracting your classmates." Flitwick paused, then added, "But I'm awarding fifteen points for the remarkable skill you demonstrated in crafting that charm. Excellent work, Potter. Very creative."
The class broke into laughter and light applause, and Harry shrugged at Hermione, who was smiling behind her hand. Flitwick chuckled and returned to his lecture.
As the lesson ended and the students filed out of the classroom, Hermione caught up with Harry and Ron.
"That was quite the performance," she said, her tone teasing but affectionate.
"I aim to please," Harry replied, grinning. "Did you like the note?"
Hermione rolled her eyes but smiled. "You already know the answer to that."
"Right," Ron interrupted, groaning. "If you two start being all cute again, I'm heading to the library."
"Since when do you go to the library?" Hermione shot back, laughing.
The rest of Harry's classes passed in a blur. He could hardly focus, his mind drifting to the evening and the plans he had so carefully put together. Each time he saw or talked to Hermione in the halls or during lunch, he felt his excitement grow.
When the final class of the day ended, Harry returned to the common room to prepare. He made sure his clothes were warm and presentable, straightened his hair as best he could, and double-checked that everything he needed for the evening was ready.
As the time approached, he took a seat by the fire, waiting for Hermione.
He didn't have to wait long. Hermione appeared at the top of the staircase, her green sweater snug and cozy, a matching scarf wrapped neatly around her neck. Her cheeks were already faintly pink, and her curls framed her face in a way that made Harry's breath hitch.
"You look absolutely adorable," Harry said with a grin.
Hermione stopped mid-step, her face turning a deeper shade of pink. "Oh, stop it," she said, though she smiled as she descended the rest of the way.
"I mean it," Harry insisted, stepping closer once she reached him. He leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to her cheek. "You're absolutely adorable."
Hermione laughed lightly, her blush lingering. "Thank you. You're looking quite handsome yourself."
"Ready to go?" he asked, offering his hand.
She took it without hesitation. "Ready."
As they approached the portrait hole, Harry heard a familiar pair of voices call out from the corner of the room.
"Oi! Off on a little romantic stroll, are we?" Fred's teasing voice rang out.
"Make sure you don't stay out too late," George added with a wink. "We'd hate for the rumors about Gryffindor's Golden Boy to start."
The common room burst into laughter, a few younger students looking at Harry and Hermione with wide eyes. Hermione shook her head, her blush returning, but Harry barely missed a step. Without so much as a glance back, he casually flicked his wand behind him, casting a pair of stinging hexes.
A moment later, two loud yelps echoed through the room.
"Ouch!" Fred shouted.
"What was that for?" George exclaimed.
Harry smirked as he and Hermione stepped through the portrait hole. "Completely deserved," he muttered.
Hermione let out an exasperated laugh as the sound of the twins protesting was drowned out by the renewed laughter of the common room. "You didn't have to do that."
"I did," Harry replied, his grin widening. "They earned it."
Hermione shook her head, but she couldn't hide the smile tugging at her lips. "You're impossible."
"And yet, you're still here," Harry teased, squeezing her hand gently as they began making their way down the corridor.
The sound of laughter faded behind them as the portrait closed and they walked side by side through the quiet, dimly lit castle. Harry couldn't help but glance at Hermione, taking in the way her eyes sparkled with amusement and anticipation.
Harry led Hermione down the winding stairs of Gryffindor Tower, their footsteps echoing softly in the quiet corridors. She glanced at him curiously, her hand warm in his, and tilted her head slightly.
"Are you going to tell me where we're going?" she asked, her tone laced with playful curiosity.
"Nope," Harry replied with a grin, his emerald eyes twinkling.
"Not even a hint?" Hermione pressed, giving his hand a gentle squeeze.
Harry chuckled, shaking his head. "Not even a little one. You'll see soon enough."
Hermione sighed but smiled, a trace of amusement on her face. "You're very stubborn, you know that?"
"So I've been told," he said, glancing at her. "And you're cute when you're trying to figure things out. But don't you trust me?"
She stopped mid-step and turned to look at him, a soft smile playing on her lips as she nodded. "I trust you, Harry. I really do," she said simply, her voice steady.
Harry paused, feeling his chest tighten in the best possible way. He gave her hand another gentle squeeze. "Good. Well I promise you won't be disappointed."
They continued down the corridors and out of the castle, the crisp evening air brushing against them as they stepped onto the grounds. The world outside was bathed in the warm hues of the early evening, the sky a mix of deep purples and golds. Hand in hand, they walked toward the Great Lake, the gentle lapping of water against the shore providing a serene sound to accompany them on their journey.
The lookout point came into view as the sun began to disappear behind the horizon, casting long shadows across the grounds. It was a quiet, secluded spot that overlooked the lake, its surface shimmering with the last rays of sunlight. Hermione's eyes lit up as they approached.
"This is beautiful, Harry," she said softly, her gaze sweeping across the view.
"I'm glad you think so," he said, releasing her hand to pull out his wand. "It gets better though."
Hermione watched curiously as Harry muttered a charm, swishing his wand in a graceful arc. A shimmering, translucent bubble of warmth enveloped them, blocking out the evening chill. The air inside was quick to warm up, and very soon felt like they had stepped into a cozy room.
"Impressive," Hermione said, her tone tinged with admiration.
"I'm just getting started," Harry replied with a grin. He pointed his wand at a large rock nearby, and it began to shift and transfigure, the rough edges smoothing out until it transfigured into a comfortable-looking bench, complete with a soft backrest. Another flick of his wand, and a second rock reshaped itself into a thick, fluffy blanket that draped neatly over the bench.
Hermione's smile widened as she took a seat, the blanket warm and inviting. Harry joined her, and together they watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery oranges and soft pinks.
As the last rays of sunlight disappeared, Harry stood and pointed his wand toward the castle. "Accio picnic basket!"
Hermione raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. A moment later, a wicker basket soared toward them, landing gently at Harry's feet.
"You really planned all this?" she asked, her voice tinged with surprise.
Harry nodded as he opened the basket, revealing an assortment of food. "I thought you'd like it."
Hermione leaned over to peek inside, her eyes widening as she recognized several of her favorite dishes. "You remembered all of these?" she asked, her tone soft.
"Of course," Harry said, a touch of shyness creeping into his voice. "I pay attention."
Hermione's expression softened as she leaned in and kissed him lightly on the cheek. "Thank you, Harry. This is perfect."
Harry felt his cheeks warm, but he smiled and pulled out his wand again. He murmured an incantation, and five small candles floated out of the basket. They lit themselves and hovered in the air around them, casting a warm glow over their picnic.
He unpacked the food, arranging it neatly on the blanket. There was everything from mini meat pies to roasted vegetable tartlets, gingerbread wands to chocolate-dipped strawberries, a steaming thermos of hot cocoa, and even a small dish of treacle tart.
"This is amazing," Hermione said as she picked up a piece of fruit. "You've really outdone yourself."
Harry shrugged, trying to play it cool. "I wanted it to be special for you."
As they ate, they talked about their day, sharing stories about classes and trading lighthearted jokes. Hermione leaned into Harry's side, the warmth of the bubble charm and the soft candlelight making the moment feel like a dream.
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The remains of their meal sat neatly packed away in the picnic basket, although the sweet and savory smells lingered, and the candles continued to float gently around them, casting a soft, flickering glow. Hermione leaned back against the bench Harry had transfigured, her expression thoughtful as she gazed out over the now-starlit lake. Harry watched her, a small smile tugging at his lips. She looked so serene in the moment, yet there was something behind her eyes that suggested her mind was racing.
He nudged her lightly with his elbow. "Sickle for your thoughts?"
Hermione gave a small laugh, shaking her head. "It's nothing, really."
"Doesn't look like nothing," Harry said, leaning forward slightly. "Come on, out with it."
Hermione bit her lip, hesitating for a moment before she spoke. "I just wanted to apologize. This night is so thoughtful, and I blew you off yesterday rather than having this, just to spend the evening with Fleur."
Harry raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Fleur? As in Fleur Delacour?"
Hermione nodded, her cheeks tinged pink. "Yes. We've been ... well, hanging out, I suppose."
"I thought you were just in the library," Harry admitted, leaning back and regarding her with a curious look. "I didn't even know you two really knew each other, let alone well enough to spend time together."
"Well ..." Hermione trailed off, clearly debating how to phrase her explanation. She avoided his gaze momentarily, her blush deepening. "It sort of started after the ... you know, the whole thing at the Great Lake. After the second task."
Harry tilted his head slightly, a small grin tugging at his lips. "You mean after the kiss?"
Hermione turned to look at him, her face fully flushed now. "Harry!"
"What?" he said innocently, though the teasing glint in his eyes betrayed him.
"Yes, that," Hermione said, her tone exasperated but not unkind. She fidgeted with the edge of her scarf, still avoiding his gaze. "After that happened, Fleur ... well, she approached me. I think she felt bad. She said she was worried she'd embarrassed me or ... or ruined something between us."
Harry blinked, surprised. "She said that?"
Hermione nodded. "She actually apologized. She didn't have to, of course—it wasn't her fault … it wasn't anyone's fault—but I appreciated the gesture. It was ... thoughtful of her."
Harry watched her closely, noting the faint smile that appeared as she spoke. "So, you started talking because of that?"
"Yes," Hermione said. "We ended up having a conversation in the library not long after the second task. And as we talked ... well, I realized that Fleur isn't just ... you know, the stunningly gorgeous Veela everyone sees her as. She's intelligent and insightful. We actually have a lot in common."
Harry leaned forward, resting his chin on his hand. "I'll admit, I wasn't expecting this. You two hanging out, I mean."
Hermione shrugged slightly, though her blush lingered. "We've met a few times in the library since then. She's incredibly intelligent, Harry. She's working on incredibly advanced magical theory, and her insights are ... well, brilliant. I'd be surprised if she doesn't pursue her Mastery after she graduates. But hanging with her, it's been ... nice."
Harry nodded thoughtfully. "I imagine in order to be in the Triwizard Tournament she'd have to be pretty smart. But I think it's great that you're building a friendship with her. She's a bit intimidating, sure, but she really seems nice. I'm glad you've gotten close."
Hermione gave him a sidelong glance, her lips twitching upward. "She said that she hoped you would be okay with our friendship."
Harry raised his eyebrows, "Of course I am, you can have your own friends."
Hermione leaned over and kissed Harry on the cheek before leaning back. "I know … it's just with her being a Veela, she's encountered a lot of jealousy, even when it was just her trying to make friends."
"Well, I'm glad you two are getting along," Harry said earnestly. "I know how much you value people who challenge you intellectually, and Fleur seems like she'd fit right into that group."
Hermione gave a small, quiet smile, her voice almost a whisper. "Thanks Harry." She finished before leaning over and kissing him again.
As she leaned back her expression grew a bit flustered again. "It's not that I was hiding it or anything, you know. I wasn't trying to avoid telling you."
Harry tilted his head, studying her closely. "I didn't think you were hiding it, but ... now you've got me curious. Was there a reason you didn't mention it before?"
Hermione fell quiet for a moment, her gaze drifting back to the lake. "I'm not sure," she finally said as she turned to look at him. "I guess I enjoyed getting to know her and it was nice that someone wanted to get to know me."
Harry reached up to gently brush a strand of hair from her face. "Thanks for telling me, Hermione. I'll admit, it's a bit surprising, but I'm really glad you've found a friend in Fleur. But honestly, Hermione, it doesn't bother me. If anything, I'm glad Fleur took the time to talk to you. It shows how much she respects you."
She nodded, her smile returning. "It's nice to talk to someone who understands ... well, being underestimated. People often assume Fleur's all looks and no substance. And, well, people sometimes assume I'm all substance and no fun."
Harry laughed softly. "They're wrong about both of you."
Hermione glanced at him, her eyes softening. "You really mean that?"
"Of course I do," Harry said, his voice sincere. "You're amazing, Hermione. Anyone who doesn't see that is missing out."
Hermione looked at him with a quiet intensity, her expression thoughtful. "You always seem to know the right thing to say."
"I just say what I mean," Harry replied simply.
Hermione leaned in and kissed him, her lips lingering for a moment before she pulled back. "Thank you, Harry."
"For what?"
"For being you," she said softly before letting her head rest on his shoulder as she hummed contently.
Kind Regards,
FavoriteAuthor
If you like this content do not hesitate to smash that like button and subscribe. Haha but seriously if you do enjoy the story - do favorite it, other than messaging me or leaving a comment it's the only way I know if you are enjoying the stories and chapters.
Story Note 1 – I'd like to think that these dates just keep getting better and better! Deepening the relationship and giving them time to talk about things that are important. Hope everyone really enjoyed how the date was written before and after their chat. And congrats to anyone who thought something like this would have happened! For what it's worth I'm glad they chatted rather than just found the nearest broom closet.
Story Note 2 – To prevent anyone from reading too much into things. Things with Hermione and Fleur are still strictly platonic-ish. There is no suspicious things happening between them that Hermione is hiding from Harry although certainly does seem that Hermione is developing feelings or at the very least appreciation for who Fleur is and how she treats her.
Story Note 3 – Looks like things are progressing seriously with Harry and Hermione while at the same time Hermione and Fleur are building a friendship … hope nothing bubbling up causes anything to ruin what is happening … (of course I wouldn't do something like that …)
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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carlos29, Guest x 3, jkarr - Thanks so much for the feedback and I really hope you continue to enjoy the story as it progresses!
Fenrir ragnarok - Well that certainly could be one way to view what is happening ... I guess we shall just have to see ...
Thelostlibrary1 - Well hanging out with Fleur is certainly a good guess!
Hands Off MY Wolfie - Thanks! I really wanted to write a Harry that spent more time being an actual person and wanted to make sure I developed relationships in this story. It's nice when it comes across in a way that is appreciated! I guess we shall see whats in store for Harry!
Grosvenor - That's a good catch but chose to look at it as a matter of terminology.
Monkey D. Conan - I guess that's what you got to ask yourself .. which is it ... haha :)
Fenrir070 - As mentioned above, developing other relationships and characters was a big part of this story that I really wanted to look into and am glad when one of the scenes really lands! Ya some of the characters in canon sorta felt wasted (obviously Neville had so much potential that was realized until right at the end) and don't even start with the Ron/Hermione relationship. Obviously there is a significant amount of people that aren't Harmony shippers but Harmony would have worked so much better than Ron and Hermione (won't even justify it with an amalgamated name, haha). They were just too different. Hope you are enjoying your journeys through the world of Hogwarts and your journey through Westeros!
Hudy Leak613 - That was a very timely question! It is up now!