The Great Hall
Starting in third-year students were allowed to attend a trip to Hogsmeade Village, it was a popular location for Hogwarts students as being kept in the castle for the entire school year led many yearning to go out into the world
It also was the main place for students to shop, date and hang out with friends unimpeded by their professors
The only thing required was that the student's parent/guardian needed to sign a permission slip
This was not done by Harry's guardians...
"So next week is the Hogsmeade trip, you two going with the rest?" Harry asked
"You really can't try asking Professor McGonagall for an exception I'm sure if you explain why she'll allow it," Hermione said
"I don't know, she's pretty no-nonsense," Harry said
"No, she's not she just has an appreciation for the rules-"
"Not unlike someone we know," Ron said as Harry laughed with him Hermione just glared at him she then looked up to see someone approaching the table
"Um... Ron?" Harry said gesturing behind them as they turned to see two Hufflepuff girls in their year now in front of them
The one closest was Susan Bones she was a relatively quiet girl not shy but didn't seek any attention
And a little behind as if in a supporting position was Hannah Abbott they were best friends as far as the Gryffindors knew as they were the ones who seemed to always be around each other
Not unlike Harry and Ron themselves
"Hi, Ron I was wondering if you want to go to Hogsmeade with me?!" Susan rushed out but it was understood by those nearby
Susan was very red in the face as her friend Hannah looked proud
Harry looked towards Ron seeing how he would answer "Me?" Ron questioned pointing to himself as Harry almost wanted to laugh at his best friend's reaction
Susan realizing there was a small chance it could look like she was asking Harry or Seamus who was next to him knew she had to clarify "Y-yes"
"O-ok yeah let's do it!" Ron managed to get out as his nerves were now affecting his speech
"Great I'll meet you here then," Susan said as Hannah wrapped her arm around Susan and moved her back to the Hufflepuff table whispering something with a proud smile on her face
Ron was still a little in disbelief as he came back to earth when Harry was shaking his shoulder
"You got a date mate!" Harry said proud of his best friend
"I have a date!" Ron said as it was clicking for him
They turned back towards the table and could see the wide smiles on Neville Dean Seamus Fred and George's faces
Even Ginny who was further down the table figured out what happened and had a grin on her face even if she knew it was just to tease him later
"Little Ronnie has a date, George"
"I reckon it's a Weasley family record for how fast it happened Fred"
The teasing continued but it was all in good fun, many of the third-year boys were all starting to be interested in dating or at least forming crushes so to see their peer get a date was exciting and encouraging
Harry's eyes shifted briefly to Hermione and he couldn't read her expression, she wasn't happy but wasn't mad either
He didn't think it was jealousy but more her being uncomfortable at the moment
"Hey, you ok?" Harry asked her as she looked shocked someone was talking to her
"Yes, I guess I..." Hermione said as she wanted to say it in a manner that could be understood by Harry "feel like the only girl in a group of boys"
It was then Harry noticed that the other third-year Gryffindor girls weren't near them and even other Gryffindor girls like Ginny also weren't close as it was Hermione with a lot of the third-year boys plus Fred and George nearby,
Harry couldn't fully emphasize as he doesn't think he ever could recall being constantly around girls but could sympathize with being a bit of an outsider in moments
He was aware she was a girl it also didn't truly matter that much until now, but hearing the boys talk about how Susan was cute and other things Hermione wasn't sure she liked hearing were now being spoken was where the difference was becoming apparent
"Sorry," Harry managed to say as it was the only thing he could think to say
"Oh no it's not your fault, it's what happens when my best friends are boys," Hermione said as she was okay with that aspect of her friendship with Harry and Ron "Just strange-"
"Wait I have a date?!" Ron said as he looked horrified
"Uh yeah Ron that's what we've been saying," Seamus said as others laughed
"But what do you do on a date?!" Ron asked as their dorm mates all went thin-lipped "Oh Merlin I'm going to mess it up aren't I"
"You'll be fine Ronald" Hermione said "All girls want is for you to spend time with them and talk to them"
"Harry you got to help me!" Ron said almost entirely ignoring Hermione
Harry was utterly confused as to why he turned to him especially after Hermione gave decent advice "Me?!"
"Yeah, you could... go ahead of me and point out all the good spots yeah? Like is this a good place to eat or to perhaps avoid this shop"
"You need Harry to go on a... test date for you?" Hermione said as she understood faster than the rest of the table
"Yeah exactly, come on Harry you know me better than anyone you would be the best one to tell where is good to go"
"I can't remember, permission slip not signed," Harry said
"Oh is that all?" Fred said overhearing
"Me and Fred can handle that," George said
"You're going to be Harry's guardian?" Neville asked
"Well more like forge the signature by Fred and George," they said in unison
"You think it'll work?" Dean asked
"Long enough for Harry to go," George said
"A vanishing quill, leave the ink long enough to be turned in but disappear when it's time for them to verify" Fred continued
"Harry please!" Ron pleaded
"Hermione, would you help me? You know to get a girl's perspective"
"You're seriously considering this?" Hermione said as Harry nodded "I guess," she sighed
"Ok good, Harry will go with Hermione ahead of Ron and Susan," Fred said
"Gotta love when the kids grow up," George said
A few days later
Gryffindor Common room
Harry found Hermione sitting alone on the couch working on some homework so he decided to join her as he figured since he was going to Hogsmeade he needed to do as much work as possible since the weekend would have less time for him to work on it
"Hey Hermione," Harry said taking his seat and getting out his materials
"You're doing homework?"
"I do my homework" Harry faked being offended as Hermione laughed "I'm not Ron"
"Trust me I know," Hermione said in a flat tone which Harry caught
"Something tells me you're not as thrilled about Hogsmeade as everyone else is"
"I don't know Harry, didn't think my first Hogsmeade trip would be to help Ron have a date with a girl he hardly knows"
"Oh he and Susan know each other," Harry said as Hermione didn't expect that "Yeah one day after class you were rushing off somewhere Draco's dogs Crabbe and Goyle were bothering Susan and Ron stood up to them for her, I'm guessing since then Susan started to have a crush on him"
"I didn't know that..." Hermione said as she paused her work to reflect "Guess I missed a lot"
"Hey we know you're taking a lot of classes, don't know how but you are," Harry said as Hermione hid her face with her hair "I know you're stuck with me this trip but maybe some boy in one of those other classes might ask you next time"
Hermione paused for a second at that idea "You know Harry you did invite me to go to Hogsmeade with you so I don't know why you're suggesting I should be going with someone else in the future" she was teasing but with some seriousness in her voice
Harry took a moment but he realized what she meant, they were kinda going on a date as well "Yeah I guess you're right," he said as he then started to chuckle making Hermione look at him "My first date is with Hermione Granger, who would have guessed"
"And mine is with Harry Potter, the girls are going to kill me," Hermione said as Harry laughed
They stayed like that for a while as their faces started to grow deeper and deeper shades of pink the realization that they were now considering the test date an actual date was sinking in more and more
It wasn't brought up again as Hermione did have a lot of homework to do and Harry needed to focus on his as well but something shifted between the two
The Great Hall
Dinner before the Hogsmeade day trip
Ron while not as much as when he was first asked out, still letting his nerves about his date tomorrow affect him
To the point, Harry and Hermione opted to head to dinner without him
"You know I was happy he got a date but if he was going to be like this I would have told him to say no," Harry said as Hermione let out a giggle
"Harry," she said
"I mean are dates that nerve-wracking?"
"They don't have to be," Hermione said "Dates should be enjoyable"
"Speaking of... are you nervous about our... 'test' date" Harry said as his face started to get warm
"Harry Potter are you nervous about going on a date with me?!" Hermione teased as Harry rolled his eyes at her
"I mean it's a... you know something I've never done with you before," Harry said
Hermione just looked at him as if she wanted to keep teasing but she felt the same way even if she was better at hiding those feelings
"Are we going to tell Ron we're going on a first date?" Harry asked
"Are we telling anyone?" Hermione added
"That's a better question," Harry said as they made it to the Gryffindor table and luckily it wasn't any of their year-mates or even the other Weasley's presents "I mean we can keep it between us"
Hermione was silent at that but she decided to nod to not worry Harry. Part of her wanted to just scream out loud saying 'I have a date with Harry!'
The other part of her knows both she and Harry aren't the biggest fans of attention and making it known they were going on a date would just give them unnecessary attention
"Besides it wouldn't help Ron" Harry added as Hermione saw the logic
"And he loves that all talk has been about him having a date too" Hermione commented as Harry grinned in agreement "So yeah a secret first test date"
Harry just shook his head at calling it that "But you know as weird as it may be considering we need to help Ron still, I'm looking forward to it" Harry said to her
"You sure you're not going to go running if I start talking about books or classes?" Hermione asked
"I don't mind when you talk about that stuff Hermione, I do think your timing isn't always the best" Harry admitted Hermione was about to object but Harry continued "Would you seriously want to talk about classes on our date?"
"Well... I..." Hermione said as she did her best to hide her blush as the combination of the way Harry was looking at her and the constant reminder of them having a date tomorrow was making that a losing battle "I suppose not"
"And to make it fair I'll do my best to not talk about quidditch," Harry said as Hermione just shook her head
"You're not Ron" Hermione joked "Oh I feel sorry for Susan, he is going to talk about Quidditch all day isn't he"
"Well I guess we just need to tell him not to do that" Harry gestured to the entrance where Ron and the rest of his dorm mates were entering and not shockingly but also surprisingly Susan and her Hufflepuff dorm mates were walking alongside them as it appeared to Harry and Hermione both Ron and Susan were nervous as they just kept stealing glances but not speaking to each other as the rest of their year-mates of the two houses were chatting amicably
"Sounds preposterous but we frankly might need to tell him to talk about Quidditch if they act like that," Hermione said as Harry laughed
The two houses separated and went to their respective tables
Ron sat next to Harry making the trio all on one side of the table with the dorm mates on the other continuing the conversation they were having already
"Harry please tell me you and Hermione have a plan?!" Ron said as it was all over his face he was panicking
"Well I was thinking you should ask her where she wants to go and go from there," Harry said
"It's our first time, we don't know anything!" Ron said as that reality set into Harry as he didn't know much of anything about Hogsmeade either
"Ok then let's go over what we do know," Hermione said "They have a sweets spot right, I know many of the other students have been raving about it"
"Honeydukes!" Ron said, "Yes I want to go there, so is that the place to start!?"
"Probably not" Hermione confessed "Probably need to go to some other stops before you fill up on sweets"
"And with the way you eat Ron might need to be cautious with eating around her," Harry said as the nearby students at the table laughed but also nodded in agreement
"What's wrong with the way I eat?" Ron asked as Harry just shook his head holding a laugh as Hermione rolled her eyes
"Well since we all don't know what we're doing what if since Hermione and I are going to be ahead of you two, we send a message back about each place?" Harry suggested
"Sounds amazing! But how?" Ron asked
"What if there was a spell that was able to send a signal to each others' wands and if Ron gets near the shop the wand will signal if it-"
Ron was about to cut her off but Harry decided it was better to step in instead "The trip is tomorrow morning Hermione, we have what, two hours before we need to go back for curfew? I don't know if we have time for us to learn that spell" Harry said what Ron was about to say albeit nicer "Let alone find it"
Hermione wanted to argue that it was possible but since it was Harry who mentioned it she decided not to argue, no point arguing the day before their date "Fine but we should learn that spell if it exists it sounds very resourceful the more I think about it, like if we need each other for something we can signal each other, or it can be used as a warning for when-"
"Snape is here," Harry said as they turned to see the head of Slytherin house behind them
"Potter, I hear you're planning to go on the Hogsmeade trip with no permission slip," Snape said as Harry momentarily had his eyes widen as he forgot about that
"No sir I have my slip signed," Harry lied avoiding Snape's eyes
"Where is it? This is the last chance for you to turn it in" Snape said
"Oh we have it Professor Snape sir," Fred said as he and George entered the Great Hall with some papers in their hands
"Along with the rest of the Weasley clan," George continued "Since Harry's practically family he asked us his honorary big brothers to hold on to it since we also had Ron's"
The twins have the four sheets of paper to Snape and Snape glares at the twins before briefly looking at each permission slip
"Very well do have a time on your trip," Snape said as he left the table
"Notice how he didn't say good time," Ron said
"Luckily it was Professor Snape if it was Professor McGonagall she would have looked at it closer," Hermione said "I guess the fact he hates you played in your favor"
"Thanks, Fred and George," Harry said to the twins who just shrugged "How did you do it?"
The twins started to get excited as that was the part they were more interested "Well we did some good old breaking and entering" they said in unison
"Yeah we broke into McGonagall's office and found the one thing that your relatives would have signed and we used that to match the signature" Fred sad
"We even transfigured our invisible ink quill to one of the muggle pens" George added
"Amazing," Harry said "Thanks again guys"
"No problem Harry," they said in unison
"You two are scarily good at a lot of things," Hermione said "How are you not top in your year?"
"They don't like doing their homework," Angelina Johnson said "Would rather experiment than actual school work"
"Yeah but you love us anyways," they said
"Well that's one hurdle taken care of I almost forgotten about," Harry said "So we need a simple way to tell Ron if it's a good or bad stop"
"Simple Hermione," Ron said as he caught Hermione about to start again
"What's your idea, Hermione?" Harry encouraged
"What if we just marked the shop then?" Hermione suggested "That way when Ron sees it he knows"
"Like paint?" Harry said
"No, well yes, maybe, I was just thinking of leaving something in the window something subtle that wouldn't alert anyone like Susan"
"You know what, I trust you two if it's simple then I should know it," Ron said dismissively as he returned to his food as he was now done discussing this
Hermione wanted to groan as she thought she was making leeway with Ron listening to her, it was for him and she didn't gain from him dating
"I like the idea," Harry said as he shifted some food on his plate "This for good and..." as she shifted his food some more "This for no"
Hermione nodded as she smiled that Harry at least listened to her
Harry and Hermione shifted to listening to Seamus talk about something that the Hufflepuffs were telling him and the next thing everyone knew dinner was over
"Well, this time tomorrow I will have become a man!" Ron declared puffing his chest out as he got up from the table only turning to see Susan and Hannah giggling at his actions as they turned and headed for their dorms "That was not a confidence raiser"
"Or it means she likes you," Dean said as Harry just looked to Hermione for her opinion who just shrugged
"Or like I am and laughing at you," Ginny said as she and some of the Gryffindors laughed in agreement
"You'll be fine Ron, just be yourself but don't talk about quidditch too much, or eat like you normally do," Harry said as more laughter came from Harry's serious advice
The Gryffindors headed to their common rooms, most stayed in the common room to hangout some decided to head in early since they wanted to wake up early for tomorrow, and others like Hermione went back to studying
Gryffindor Common Room
"So are you ever going to tell me how you're taking all these classes?" Harry said taking a seat next to her
"Not playing wizard chess anymore?"
"Ron won again, after a while losing loses its charm," Harry said as Hermione smirked at that "So you going to answer me?"
"I'll tell you my secret after exams," Hermione said
"So it is a secret," Harry said "You know I like uncovering secrets"
"Oh trust me I know," Hermione said playfully turning to him "So you know I'm going try my best to keep it Potter"
"Ok Granger, let's see if I can outsmart the brightest witch of her age"
"Oh I would love to see you try"
"Are you two flirting?" Neville said as the two jerked their heads to the Gryffindor who was sitting not that far from them
"No!" they both declared as they both had a blush on their faces
They initially believed their denial but they started to realize it was a little flirty between them
"Hmm, ok!" Neville said believing them "Anyways Hermione I have a question on that History of Magic essay"
"And that's my cue," Harry said going back to where Ron and the others were
Hermione glanced over as she was talking to Neville and saw Harry brought some of his schoolwork out and was working on it now at a desk table ignoring some protests from Ron and Seamus
"Ok thanks, Hermione, I swear it's amazing you're the only one not to fall asleep in that class I totally missed that," Neville said returning to his seat
"No problem," Hermione said gathering her things and heading over to Harry's table
"Hello again," Harry said noticing Hermione setting her school materials next to his
"Don't mind me, keep working on your essay" Hermione said as she resumed her reading
Harry was going to ask why she moved to his table but he didn't mind so he left it alone
"I need to know your secret, doing all your work before Monday is difficult" Harry commented as Hermione smirked
They kept like this for a while with Hermione swapping subjects to read once every so often
The common room dwindled, many there for conversation and playing around headed up to their dorm rooms leaving mostly those studying or doing schoolwork which was few for the Gryffindor common room
"Hey don't forget I need you two up and early tomorrow," Ron said standing over the desk they were sharing
"I'm an early riser no worries Ron," Harry said "I'm more worried about you,"
"I don't sleep in... a lot, I'll be fine," Ron said
"I meant... actually never mind you're right you'll be fine," Harry said not wanting to try and clarify he was referring to him on his date
"Night Ron," Hermione said as she knew she wouldn't see him until tomorrow
"See ya," Ron said as he made his way to the dorms
"I think I'm done," Harry said as he slumped in his seat finally relaxing
"All of it?" Hermione said
"Yeah Transfiguration essay, History of Magic essay, everything to know about that potion Snape was telling us to write about, we didn't have anything for DADA and I think I got the charm down"
"I'll proof your essays, let me see your charm," Hermione said grabbing his parchment
"Ok," Harry said propping his quill up to be used as a target "Glacius!"
Harry used the freezing charm on the quill and it became covered in ice
"Your natural affinity to these things always amazes me," Hermione said casting a warming charm on the quill to defrost the ice
"Let's see yours then," Harry said as he took off his glasses and set them down for a target for Hermione
"Ok, glacius," Hermione said as the glasses had some frosted-over lenses and were overall colder but weren't frozen over like the quill was "I might need more practice..."
"I think you got it," Harry said as he saw the look on Hermione's face "I'm serious you just need to use more power which I know you have loads of,"
"Not like you," Hermione sighed "The freezing charm needs to be able to put out a fire barely making glasses cold isn't close"
"Ok let's try again," Harry said as he grabbed one of the candles the room was used for light "Professor is about to give you your grade now do it"
"Glacius!" Hermione exclaimed putting more power into the charm resulting in not only the fire to go out but the icy air hitting Harry in the face making him very blue from the coldness "Oh Harry I'm so sorry I don't know why I used that much"
"I-it's o-ok Her-Hermione" Harry got through chittering teeth as Hermione came over to use the warming charm on him after she reignited the candle fire "T-told you just needed more power"
"Fine you get the ever exclusive you were right from me," Hermione said as she rolled her eyes
"I feel special," Harry said while still cold was not freezing anymore "I need to work on my warming charm, especially for tomorrow"
"I mean we'll be wearing coats we should be fine," Hermione said as she glanced at her hands and then at Harry's and noticed how close they were "But some practice wouldn't hurt" as she repositioned herself to give her and Harry more space between them
"Sounds like something you would say," Harry said casting the warming charm on himself as Hermione read his essays "Need me to read yours?"
"No I did my core classes awhile ago and I'm pretty confident in those, it's the electives I was working on," Hermione said showing him the ancient runes book "unless you want to read about ancient runes"
"I'll get the summary from you later then," Harry said as Hermione started to read his other essay "Is it a secret because of you or because of the professors?" Going back to how she's taking so many classes
"These essays are really good, you seemed motivated to get near-perfect marks on these Harry," Hermione said as she saw him looking at her awaiting an answer "...professors," Hermione said as she had to give him something
"Well I wanted to give tomorrow my undivided attention," Harry said packing his stuff up
"Must be a special occasion" Hermione said arching a brow
"Yeah I have a date with this really amazing girl tomorrow," Harry said as her eyes widened briefly "Good night Hermione"
"Good night Harry," Hermione said as she watched him head to his dorm, once he was out of sight she resumed her readings but to no avail, as her mind was now elsewhere so she quickly gathered her things and raced to her dorm room
When she entered she saw Lavender was the sole roommate still awake, reading some romance book Hermione never bothered to learn the title of
Hermione approached Lavender's bed causing the blond to look at her
"What's wrong Granger?"
"Do you have anything... to help... keep my hair under... control for tomorrow" Hermione managed to get out through gritted teeth
They didn't have the best relationship but they were roommates for three years now so they had some idea of each other
Such as Lavender knows a lot about hair and clothing and Hermione never makes a deliberate attempt at her hair and clothing
Despite both being Gryffindors they were very much opposites in a lot of ways
Lavender closed her book so fast it could have been mistaken as a thunderclap and her smile was undeniable "Finally!" She says dragging Hermione to the bathroom
The Hogsmeade trip day
Harry was the first to wake and first to have gotten ready among the boys
Harry didn't have that many nice clothes so he put on his cleanest sweater and jeans and tried to do his hair but to no prevail as he grabbed his coat to go over it
He looked rather nice all things considered
Ron however...
"Ron look I have as much experience as you do but you should probably wear something a little nicer," Harry said as their roommates agreed Ron wearing sweatpants, an old shirt, and his casual worn out jacket didn't look the best, especially for a date
"Well I thought it would be better to be comfortable," Ron said as the then looked in the mirror "But I see what you mean... if you see her can you tell Susan I'm running a little late, it works well with the plan"
"The plan?" Neville asked as he and the other boys were also getting ready even with no dates they were planning on going to Hogsmeade for fun
"Harry and Hermione are going to be one of the first carriages and I'm getting on one of the last ones with Susan, gives just enough time to allow them to be ahead of us and can let me know in passing what's good and what's not"
"Hermione's idea" Harry added as the others nodded "Alright let me meet up with Hermione since we got to be there early"
Harry made his way down to the common room and was surprised to not find Hermione there already so he only waited a few minutes as she then started to head down
"Sorry hair took longer than I wanted," Hermione said approaching Harry as he turned and a blush instantly appeared on his face
It wasn't straightened and there were still elements of her bushy hair but Hermione's hair was now considered wavy along with no wizard robes and no books affecting her posture it opened up Harry's eyes to his best friend it also opened many of the first and second years that were in the common room but they didn't matter to either of them
The same was said for Hermione regarding Harry's appearance, his hair wasn't changed like hers but the deliberate action to control it was enough for her to notice, the sweater was also one of the few clothing items Harry had that wasn't baggy so there was appreciation there as well, she already knew Harry was attractive there was more than just the famous nickname for him so that still didn't stop her from absorbing her best friends features
"You look pretty," Harry said trying to avoid eye contact as he felt embarrassed at finding his best friend attractive
"Thank you," Hermione said blushing at the compliment "You look nice too"
"Thanks, your hair is..." Harry started
"I know I know I asked Lavender for help and she might have gone overboard," Hermione said tucking a stray hair behind her ear as Harry felt it was rather difficult to keep a straight face
"You and Lavender talked?" Harry realized as that point connected
"Strange right" Hermione said with a laugh as Harry nodded and also laughed with his nerves at seeing her calmed him "I asked her for help once and she helped me like we've been best friends forever"
"Ready?" Harry said as Hermione nodded they walked off together
They walked in a comfortable silence as they reached where carriages would take them to Hogsmeade
They weren't first but was still early that they felt a little embarrassed that they, third years, were currently being surrounded by sixth and seventh years and all attention was on them
And attention while not mocking was on them as the girls were very interested in what they figured was a first date and the boys giving Harry some advice such as 'don't say anything stupid'
More and more students started to arrive as the carriages arrived and like planned Harry and Hermione managed to get on the first carriage even if it was with some sixth and seventh-years who were interested in the start of the teen's romantic journey
Eventually, the carriage quieted down as the pairs kept to themselves
"So when we're seventh years are we going to be like that?" Harry whispered to Hermione as he gestured to the pair next to him who was giving them looks amused by the idea they were on a first date
"Uh..." Hermione said as she was looking across at the couple that were kissing
"I didn't mean them- I mean- unless... no wait I mean..." Harry said as he looked at Hermione only to see her smiling at him in jest "Don't mess with me like that"
"Sorry, I saw the opportunity," Hermione said while giggling at the flustered Harry "And no I think I would like to be the upperclassman that lets students be" Harry gave her a look that said he didn't believe her "What I'm serious!"
"I just figured you would be a prefect and likely head girl," Harry said as Hermione blushed at the expectations "Which also means you almost most certainly will not let students be"
"You mixed in a good thing with a bad thing," Hermione commented
"I didn't say anything was bad, I know you're a rule breaker when you want to be so I'm not worried for those future third years"
"Well, what about you, don't you want to be a prefect? Could be fun being prefects together..." Hermione said as she started to blush at the idea of just her and Harry patrolling halls together
"...it would, I guess I don't see myself being the boy in our year," Harry said as Hermione looked at him as if he said something crazy "I mean I just don't think it's likely"
"Ok but seriously of the Gryffindor boys, it would be between who you, Neville, and who? Ron?! Sorry Harry you're going to be a prefect with me!"
"No need to say sorry, if it means I get to spend more time with you," Harry said as then they both realized what they were saying and looked away from each other
"Smooth," a sixth-year boy said as Harry wanted to hide in his sweater as the carriage chuckled at the young pair
Hogsmeade Village
They arrived at Hogsmeade and were taking in the magical village as most of the older students they rode with immediately went to Three Broomsticks the rest more into the village already familiar with where they wanted to go
"So I know that's where butterbeer is at, also where a lot of students like to gather," Hermione said pointing to the way most of the students went
"Of course, you read up on it," Harry said as Hermione was about to say something to disprove it but stopped herself as she did manage to get something from Lavender last night "So that should be last"
"Yes, I agree," Hermione said "So where to first... you know Ron where would he want to go first?"
"Oh, I wasn't even thinking about Ron..." Harry admitted "I was... never mind, they probably have a book store might as well go there and check it out"
"And mark it off for Ron" Hermione added as they both knew Ron would not like that
"Oh definitely!" Harry said as Hermione giggled
They walked into Tomes and Scrolls and Hermione glowed up at the site as Harry figured this would happen
"We can spend a little bit here before we go and try to help Ron," Harry said as he saw Hermione take off making him smile as he followed her
"Oh this is one they don't have at the library, and this is a newer edition of- oh wait I've had my eye on that one for months and..." Hermione rambled as she realized she was absentmindedly holding five books already in her hands which Harry just took from her "I got carried away"
"No I'm honesty surprised you caught yourself," Harry said as he looked at the books and groaned "Merlin, I didn't think to bring a bag"
Hermione then also berated herself as she didn't either as now they don't have the means to carry anything they might buy "I can get them next visit" she muttered upset
"No we can figure something out," Harry said as he turned towards the store owner "Hi is there any way to get these delivered to Hogwarts?" As Hermione whispered it was a brilliant idea
"Oh yes, of course, an extra delivery fee but we always deliver there so it's not so bad," they said as Harry smiled, "I take it it's your first trip to Hogsmeade, the name is Thomas Brown by the way"
"Harry," Harry said
"I'm Hermione Granger" Hermione greeted
"Yes so Hogsmeade has its own post office so if you go there and fill out all your information it will be much easier," Thomas said as they both mentally took note they had to stop there "But until then I'll write down who these are to so I can send them properly"
"Ok these five are to Hermione Granger," Harry said as he gave the owner some galleons along with the five books
"Harry no I'll pay for-" Hermione tried
"Hey we're on a date, let the guy pay," Harry said throwing a wink at her he knew he was taking advantage of it being a date as he preferred paying over his friends paying
Hermione just huffed as she mentally noted how much he paid
"Ok we do need to check out some other shops," Harry said as they exited the book store "Won't be long until Ron will be behind us"
Hermione using a warming charm then made a subtle X in the foggy (thanks to the cold) window of Tomes and Scrolls, thanks to the charm the mark would stay there much longer than if they just used their finger, it was their way to subtly let Ron know if it was worth the stop, an O would be used if it was a good stop
"Well we went to one place you knew I would like let's go to one place I know you will like," Hermione said taking Harry by the hand and leading him
By this point in their friendship, Harry was used to Hermione touching him, as the constant hugs and dragging him and Ron places forced him to even if he wasn't the most comfortable with physical contact in general but with the context it was a date he felt different about Hermione's hand holding his
He rather liked it,
It wasn't long before they came across Sprintwitches Sporting Needs
It was essentially a sporting goods store for Quidditch supplies
Harry similarly to Hermione earlier was engrossed in all the quidditch supplies as he started to get carried away which naturally made Hermione smile
They ended up in the glove section as it was one of those lesser mention aspects of quidditch Harry needed to get a look at "These gloves are great for gripping the broom- but these are great at catching the snitch... but maybe I should just get some for the colder weather," Harry said as he turned to his date "What do you think?"
"Me? You know I don't care for quidditch" Hermione said surprised he asked her
"But you come to every single one of my games, you read up on all the rules, and besides you're my best friend and the smartest girl I know of course I value your opinion," Harry said as matter-of-factly as he could
Hermione paused as she let all that sink hiding the grin on her face as much as possible "I guess the ones for gripping your broom then" Hermione said as Harry grabbed them "I really can't stand the times you fall off your broom"
Harry knew most of the time that wasn't up to him but he could understand that watching him fall or slip would be hard on her "Alright these gloves then" Harry said picking up brown gloves that had grips on the palms of them
Hermione immediately snatched them from his hands and rushed to the counter
By the time Harry realized what she was doing it was too late "Hermione no I can pay-"
"Nope, and these aren't even half of what the books were so you're going to stand there and let me!" Hermione said pointing her finger at him as he just looked at her bemused that she was this determined to buy them
"Well thank you," Harry said flashing a smile as Hermione blushed then turned back to the counter to pay for the gloves that were going to be delivered to Harry Potter similar to her books
As she was doing that Harry left an O in the window as he knew Ron liked Quidditch
It wasn't long until Hermione finished and both exited the shop
"So since we were both kids in candy stores," Harry said as Hermione smiled at the similarities they had "Want to get actual candy?"
"Honeydukes? Yes please!" Hermione said that despite her parents being dentists her family liked sweets, they just took better care of their teeth knowing that
"Ok let's go" Harry took Hermione's hand as they walked towards where they saw many students walking earlier
Hermione was a bit taken aback when Harry initiated holding hands she was well aware of his reaction toward physical contact despite her constant hugs but was not going to do anything to change his mind
There were some eyes on them as they walked through the village from other students including fourth-year Cho Chang with friends however Harry didn't notice her as he was busy looking at all the shops and just overall being engrossed at Hogsmeade (and Hermione), Hermione however did notice as she caught the glare Cho gave her which oddly satisfied her
She wasn't the biggest fan of Cho she didn't know why before but she had a better feeling about why now
They entered Honeydukes and it was pretty crowded as it was a popular spot amongst the students, their friends Neville Seamus and Dean saw them and all noticed Harry and Hermione were holding hands
Harry let go of her hand quickly as he went to ask Dean his suggestions on the sweets there
Hermione knew they had to let go since it was too crowded to walk hand in hand side by side but felt weird about him letting go when his friends were present
"Hermione, Dean says these are some we must try," Harry said gesturing to what Dean was holding
"Jelly slugs, they're kinda like gummy worms back home," Dean said as Harry and Hermione both being from the muggle world understood the comparison
"Ok we can't stay here too long I think Ron's catching up to us," Harry said as Hermione looked at him wondering why he thought that was the case "So we're going to order some things can you grab bring them to us?"
"Sure meet at Three Broomsticks later?" Dean said as Harry nodded as he went to the counter with Hermione behind him
"So what do you want?" Harry asked as they were both looking around
"I heard cauldron cakes were good," Hermione said
"Fudge flies?" Harry said as he wasn't sure about the names but could understand fudge meant chocolate "Might as well go with chocolate frogs as I've had those before"
"Ok then... fizzing whizzes," Hermione said making her last choice "You have to let me try some of yours"
"If you let me try yours," Harry said as she nodded he then told the owner their order of those four items plus the jelly slugs Dean recommended "I'm paying it will be faster"
Hermione was about to argue but just silently told herself she would pay at the next stop
"Ok my friend there will grab the order, we have to leave now," Harry said to the owner pointing at Dean as the owner nodded seemingly used to having others take friends' orders
They managed to squeeze out of the store and back onto the street relieved to be in a more open area
"Let's see I guess we should find somewhere to eat," Harry said as it was around that time of day
Hermione was marking an O on the window of Honeydukes, they knew Ron would go regardless but wanted to stay on top of their secondary goal "I heard some of the older girls say Madam Paddifoot Tea shop would be nice" Hermione said referring to what she overheard in the carriage ride over as she then pointed back as they would be retracing their steps as they saw the sign a bit down where they were before
"Tea shop? Ok, they probably have snacks there as well" Harry said "Ready?" Hermione nodded "Ok let's go"
They took a few steps before it seemed that Harry's hand gravitated towards Hermione's as they connected again, Hermione was mildly surprised to see Harry grab her hand again but didn't mind the contact
She did have something on her mind though and her being her had to let it out "Are you embarrassed to be seen with me in front of her your friends?" Hermione questioned as she noticed Harry briefly loosened his grip on her hand once she asked
"What no," Harry said gripping her hand tighter "It's just... a different feeling I guess... It's probably a rare feeling for you but it's like when the Professor looks like they're about to ask you a question you know you don't have the answer to," he said "So I didn't want them to ask me"
"So... you don't know how you feel about me?..."
"I know you're my best friend and hopefully that never changes"
"It won't, not getting rid of me that easily Harry Potter" Hermione said as Harry smiled
"But being more than that... it's a new question and I'm still..." Harry said trying to think of an analogy
"Doing the homework"
"Kinda," Harry said "Not that you're homework, I actually like you while homework is..." he stopped as he realized how it sounded
"I like you too, and I'm also figuring out these new feelings," Hermione said softly which showed that she wasn't mad at Harry which relaxed him "But that's also what dates are for... to see if the two people like each other"
Harry has a look of realization on his face that Hermione caught "...oh that makes more sense" Harry said as he smiled "I thought it was trying to get them to like you"
"Is that what you were doing?" she asked
Harry shook his head "No, I guess that's why I've been feeling weird as I felt like I was doing this wrong," he admitted "I'm mostly just being how I usually am with you"
"Well I think you're doing well," Hermione said "Passing marks!" Keeping the school analogy going
"Same to you Ms. Granger would give you an E (Exceeds Expectations) right now," Harry said
"Not an O?! (Outstanding)" Hermione faked offense
"Still in the middle of the exam," Harry said as he gestured to the tea shop "Ready to resume?"
"Of course!"
They passed by some shops they wanted to go into but prioritized the tea shop including Zonko's joke shop which Harry stopped to mark an O as he knew Ron would like it and Hermione wouldn't care as much
They entered the tea shop and Harry partly regretted it, as the shop was less of a tea shop and more of a date spot as it was filled with students kissing or holding hands or other things...
"It's gaudy in here," Hermione said as Harry nodded the shop was covered in pink from the walls to the chairs to just about everything
The bell above the door chimed as it signaled someone entering or leaving the store and some eyes went to them this time it was Hermione who separated their hands albeit this time it was to avoid being grouped in the same category as the rest of the students there of just being there to be intimate
"Want to take the tea to go?" Harry suggested noticing her apprehension to stay which she agreed
They quickly made their order for two teas and some cookies they had on sale and took them to go, Harry paid for it again and Hermione didn't put up a fight this time despite wanting to as she just wanted to exit the shop
They exited and enjoyed the hot tea outside in the colder weather
"Ok weird place but good tea," Hermione said as she sipped from her cup
"Yeah, what should we mark it? Ron probably wouldn't like it but maybe Susan would?" Harry said as he did notice more of the girls seem to like it there than their dates/boyfriends
"I'm marking it just so we can say we thought about Susan" Hermione said making an O on the window
"That's fair Ron might get carried away and just go to spots he would like," Harry said "I guess we can go to the post office as I think we bought ourselves enough time for Ron to visit some of the shops"
"Yes we need to make sure we get our deliveries," Hermione said as she went to reach for his hand but stopped herself as his hands were full with his tea cup in one hand and the snacks they ordered in the other
Harry noticed and thought similarly but he managed to look up and saw an older couple walking arm in arm so Harry moved his arm to create space for hers to slip through
Hermione saw this and slowly slipped her free arm into the one Harry was holding the snacks in, was a little awkward as Harry was holding a bag but would not complain, they were closer this way than just holding hands, Hermione honestly preferred linking arms to holding hands
They walked like that for a bit as the post office was a bit down the street, Harry quickly finished his tea and threw the cup away as he shifted the snacks to his now free hand which allowed him and Hermione in a more comfortable arm link
The Hogsmeade Post Office wasn't anything interesting they just simply registered themselves for delivery which was simple as it was just to Hogwarts but did need to put their student information such as they were Gryffindors to help the delivery process as there are a lot of students
Hermione figured there was probably a spell or enchantment that linked them to Hogwarts as it didn't require much to register
They contemplated marking it for Ron, they knew he needed to do it eventually but it wasn't a date spot
Harry just made an M in the window as Hermione was confused "M for Maybe" he shrugged
"Oh, hopefully, he understands that," Hermione said as they exited the post office "So where to next?"
Harry pointed to the one across from them as Hermione let a smile slip "Scrivenshaft's Quill Shop" he said "Wonder what they sell there"
"Come on," Hermione said ignoring his sarcasm as she led them inside
It was as advertised, a lot of different quills some just different styles for aesthetics some came with colored ink some were enchanted quills whether it was to automatically write or draw
Harry didn't have any interest in anything as he was good on quills, Hermione however got some of the colored ink quills
"It could help with note-taking," Hermione said as Harry playfully just rolled his eyes at his studious best friend "I'm serious, main notes in black, things of importance in red, green for side notes, blue for things to read more into... I'm getting carried away again aren't I?"
"Yeah but I don't mind," Harry said which made Hermione smile "I did call you talking about classes"
"No, I made no such mention of classes note taking can be for anything such as..."
"Such as..." Harry humored her as she was struggling to think of anything that didn't require learning, Harry decided to drop it as he really didn't mind "What's your favorite color?"
Hermione was grateful for the shift in topic even if mildly confused "Would say random but I was just going on about quill ink before, blue is mind" Hermione answered "Which might have fit as I was almost a Ravenclaw"
"Yeah almost became a hatstall," Harry said "So it was between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw?"
"Like Professor McGonagall," Hermione said pleased a the similarities she had with her favorite professor "I was determined to be in Gryffindor though maybe if I hadn't asked I might have been in Ravenclaw"
"Between Ravenclaw and Gryffindor, you do fit both... I'm glad you chose Gryffindor" Harry said she appreciated that as she knew she made the right choice
"Well, what about you? Weren't you almost a Slytherin, and isn't your favorite color green"
"Well shows that there is no correlation there huh" Harry said as Hermione playfully rolled her eyes "Yeah it's green how'd you know?"
"Educated guess," Hermione said looking at his eyes which resulting Harry looking back into her eyes before they realized it they were just gazing into each other's eyes, eyes started to wander and other features started to grab their attention such as hair, nose, cheeks, lips...
It wasn't until the owner cleared their throat they came back to as they were silent for a decent amount of time
"I'll pay for these," Hermione said as she made her way to the counter
"I'll mark M on the window I feel like I've seen Susan draw before," Harry said making up Susan's drawing skill as he just stepped towards the window
They exited the shop not completely over what happened but didn't phase them enough as Hermione slipped her arm into Harry's like before
"So want to check out the shrieking shack? They say it's haunted and even ghosts won't go there- " Hermione started but stopped when Harry's stomach started grumbling making the teenage boy grow pink in embarrassment "Or we can go to Three Broomsticks and eat" as she giggled
"Yeah those cookies did not hold me," Harry said
"They were good though," Hermione said as they started to head towards Three Broomsticks "Might have to make that a regular stop on future visits with you"
"Already wanting a second date?" Harry teased but Hermione just laughed
"I wouldn't mind doing this again" Hermione admitted "but I feel like once we get back you're going to be banned because of Fred and George"
"They said their forgery was good enough if not I'll just claim Snape didn't look close enough"
"Going to claim our professor was being negligent? Oh you're definitely going to get detention"
"Worth it," Harry said smirking at her as she smiled in response
The day was winding down so Harry and Hermione heading to Three Broomsticks now was perfect as it was going to be their last stop as they agreed to in the beginning
They entered and it was packed with students, many of the older students were well on piles of butterbeer, and the younger ones having conversations in their booths
"You find us a seat I'll get two butterbeer," Harry said Hermione nodded
"Get some food Harry" Hermione added as he had that look of remembrance as she just laughed and went to find seats for them
Harry made his way to the bar copied what the older students were doing and asked for two butterbeer foamier
It got some amused looks but they didn't pay him any more mind as the bartender gave him his drinks
He also ordered something from the menu but knew that would take a little longer so he went to join Hermione drinks in hand
Hermione however was torn she saw a lot of Gryffindors in her year sitting together and since they didn't think they were on a date it would make sense to join them
But she also saw a booth across for them free for them to be in and possibly... but would be in full view of their peers
She scoffed at herself now feeling what Harry felt earlier but knew her face was warm as the thought about kissing Harry was not leaving her mind
"So hey where are we sitting?" Harry said as Hermione jumped slightly in shock "Sorry I guess you were in deep thought about where to sit huh"
Harry noticed the seats she was eyeing "I mean it's a bit much either way" Hermione said
"Ok I'll decide then," Harry said as he went to the open booth making Hermione follow
Harry slid into the booth and placed the butterbeer down on the table Hermione slid in after him and kept a comfortable space between them
"So how does it taste?" Hermione asked as Harry looked at her wondering what she meant "The butterbeer. I know you've had some after quidditch victories"
"I mean I sipped it first year but didn't like it at first," Harry said as Hermione was giving him a look wondering why he bought the drinks then "My tastes have matured I'm willing to try again"
"Well if you're willing to try again I can't see why I wouldn't," Hermione said grabbing her glass as Harry grabbed his
"They usually toast right?"
"Well that's for celebratory things," Hermione said
"To the best date I've ever been on," Harry said as Hermione laughed as they were each other's first date
"To first dates," Hermione said as they clinked glasses
Harry started to drink his and Hermione sipped hers to get a taste for it
"You know... better than I remember," Harry commented as he put down his already half-drunken butterbeer
"Yeah it's surprisingly sweet," Hermione said as Harry laughed "What?" Harry pointed at her mouth as she had a mustache of the froth foam "Oh is that why it was so much on top so you can have a laugh"
"Maybe," Harry said still laughing as Hermione wiped her mouth then she pointed to him "I have some?" As he wiped his mouth
"Yeah it just somehow got over here," Hermione said scooting closer and wiping it off his cheek
"Well you got some here," Harry said wiping her chin
The action of his fingers on her chin made her look up at him a little and their faces were close to each other as they could feel each other's breaths
It made Harry look in Hermione's eyes as she was eyeing his lips
They didn't realize who initiated it but their lips met
Their kiss got some whoos and ooohs from their friends in the booth across as they saw them kiss making them separate briefly as Harry kept his fingers on Hermione's chin
"That was..." Hermione started
"Nice," Harry said as she nodded "Sorry I should have asked first"
"No, I think I kissed you," Hermione said
"No, I think I initiated you," Harry said
"I'm pretty sure I leaned in," Hermione said
"I think I pulled you in," Harry said as his fingers were on her chin
"You did... but I'm definitely the one who kissed you second," Hermione said before Harry could respond she kissed him
If the last one was brief this one lasted much longer, if you could argue the first kiss was barely a kiss this one left no doubt
"Bloody hell," Ron said as he with Susan Bones spotted them kissing
"Guess we weren't the only ones on a date," Susan said while giggling as Harry and Hermione separated, fluster written all over their faces
"Hey Susan give us a minute?" Ron said as Susan nodded and joined some of her Hufflepuff friends who she saw "So?"
"So... how did the date go mate?" Harry asked changing the focus from them to Ron
"Had its ups and downs but I'm more curious about you two" Ron said taking a seat next to Harry
"Well we kinda realized that us going ahead of you together kinda meant we were on our own date," Harry admitted
"So while we went on our what you called test date, we were actually on our first date," Hermione said
"Why didn't you tell me? I'm your best friend, you two are best friends it would be nice to know instead of walking in on you snogging"
"We weren't snogging!" Hermione said "It was a kiss"
"If that wasn't snogging I'm praying for you Harry you might run out of air the way Hermione was on you when you two end up snogging," Ron said as Harry laughed as Hermione grew red at the insinuation
"But we're good, right? Sorry I didn't tell you but you were so nervous about your date I figured this was the last thing you needed" Harry said
"As your best friend nothing is more important than you two being happy and if it's with each other cool" Ron said
"Ron" Hermione gritted
"I might have been a little upset, thought I finally beat you both at something, I had a date before either of you," Ron confessed "But hey I still beat you at something"
"What's that?" Harry asked
"Well let's just say that tea shop was a good choice," Ron said as it took Harry a second but Hermione didn't need it
"You two were snogging in there the whole time?!" Hermione exclaimed
"Not the whole time..." Ron said as he blushed "We did go to that quidditch shop you marked,"
"So all that work we did... didn't help you," Harry said
"Hey I gave you credit for the tea shop and quidditch shop, and you were right about that book store not that I needed that mark," Ron said as Harry and Hermione shared a look "Besides it went well for you two, snogging in a pub"
"We weren't snogging!" Hermione repeated her face growing red
"So you and Susan..." Harry said
"She's nice and pretty confident once comfortable she could have been a good Gryffindor," Ron said glancing over at Susan and the other Hufflepuffs "I did tell her I want to get to know her a little more before we go on a second date,"
"That was surprisingly mature of you Ronald" Hermione credited
"Yeah well not everyone can just go and snog their best friend," Ron said as Harry regretted being placed in the middle of them as Hermione grew red for what was the countless times already since Ron arrived
"It wasn't a snog!" Hermione near shouted
"I think it was," Lavender said as she and the other Gryffindor third years gravitated towards their table "I mean seriously Hermione I thought Harry was going to run out of air"
"That's what I said!" Ron said as the table laughed
"Hey stop picking on my girlfriend," Harry said wrapping his arm around her as the table stopped in shock as Hermione looked at him with wide eyes "Um you are my girlfriend now right?"
"Correct," Hermione said smiling at him
"Yeah so the only one who gets to comment on her snogging me is me," Harry said as everyone laughed
"It wasn't a snog," Hermione muttered but smiled as she relaxed into Harry's arm
"Since you didn't join us because of your 'not snog' so here's the sweets you ordered from Honeydukes," Dean said passing them a bag
"Oh, that's where I really wanted to go to!" Ron said clearly just remembering
"No worries you can have some of mine," Harry said as Ron grinned and reached into the bag
"Oh cauldron cakes I hear these are good," Ron said until Hermione snatched them
"These are mine, and no I'm not sharing with you or any of you," Hermione said as Ron held his hands up as if he was accused and the others mimicked "Except Harry"
"Oh you two are going to be disgustingly sweet aren't you," Seamus said
"Us? Did you hear about Ron and Susan" Harry said as all eyes shifted to Ron
"Well thanks for that Harry" Ron said
"I thought you liked attention" Harry commented as he noticed something "Oh look here she comes now"
The Hufflepuffs gathered to where the Gryffindors were as Susan slid into the booth next to Ron
"So since my best friend wants to fraternize with a Gryffindor I figured it's only right we all get to know each other a little better" Hannah said as she made her way between Neville and Lavender as many of the other Hufflepuffs their year also made their way into the group around the booth
"She's asking do y'all want to party like Hufflepuffs!?" Ernie Macmillan asked
Many of them raised their butterbeer glasses in agreement and excitement
More butterbeer came and went as the third years were downing all the drinks
Harry and Hermione were eating the food they ordered as the partying was commencing
It wasn't long until Ron and Susan resumed their snog from before
"See that's a snog," Hermione said pointing to the pair still snogging as everyone laughed
"You are always right" Harry whispered to her "Want to get out of here?"
"I mean where would we go? There's no ti..." Hermione said as she realized what she meant and grabbed Harry's hand "Come on!"
They managed to slip out of the booth as everyone was preoccupied they got out of the pub and managed to reach the carriages which were not surprisingly empty
It wasn't long before Harry and Hermione's lips met again
They briefly separated "So what did I score?" Hermione asked referring back to if their date was like an exam
"Outstanding but you knew that," Harry said
"You know me well," Hermione said giving a brisk kiss "Really well now"
"And what did I get?" Harry asked, "Still passing marks?"
"Oh you're way past that," Hermione said as they resumed their now no-doubt snog session
(My first Harry Potter story here!)
(Been reading a bit of Harmione fanfiction lately so felt inspired to write something)
(Likely just a one-shot)
(I had an idea of what if Ron had a date and it left Harry and Hermione alone, which changed to them being on a test date and then realizing they like each other then changed to this that it just became their secret first date)
(Later I decided to add the common room and great hall parts as I decided to adjust certain parts on the date that needed some context)
(As for why Susan Bones for Ron? I don't know lol, you ever just have that random minor/background character and thought they could have done more with them, I think for Harry Potter Susan Bones is it for me)
(Plus in the movies, Susan was sort of the main Hufflepuff since the director's daughter played her and was constantly sitting by Hermione)