That morning, Harry was sleeping soundly in his bed. At last, he had managed to push away the thoughts that had kept him awake the night before, especially the ones involving Hermione. His sleep had been calm, and for the first time in weeks, he dreamt of Hogwarts. He remembered the best moments of each year: Quidditch matches under the roaring cheers of the crowd, the joy of winning the House Cup, laughter during trips to Hogsmeade... He was just about to walk into the library with Hermione in his dream when a real voice pulled him out of that peaceful world.

"Harry, wake up! It's almost lunchtime and Mum was getting worried about you," called Ron, mouth full, standing next to the bed.

Harry opened his eyes slowly, still half-asleep. Without his glasses, all he could see was Ron's red blur and the crumbs of whatever he was eating falling to the floor.

"Come on, mate. I'm missing cartoons on TV," Ron added, handing Harry his glasses with one hand while chewing with the other.

"Thanks, Ron," Harry mumbled, putting on his glasses and pushing the covers aside.

"What time did you go to bed last night? Hermione's been up for ages. Don't tell me you stayed up all alone again..."

"What? No, I just took a while to fall asleep... I think," Harry replied, still rubbing his eyes, trying to get rid of the last traces of sleep.

"My parents got in last night," Ron continued, tossing the empty biscuit packet into the bin. "They had dinner with George and started talking about expanding the shop. But I was so tired I barely remember anything they said."

"And Hermione? Did you talk to her?"

"She's downstairs with Mum and Ginny. They were chatting about her going back to Hogwarts. Seems like the Ministry was expecting it already," Ron said with a shrug.

"Alright, I'll be down soon. You go ahead. I'll brush my teeth and catch up. If your mum asks, just tell her I slept fine, just woke up late," said Harry as he walked toward the bedroom door.

"Okay, but don't take too long. Otherwise, Mum's going to send me back up again," Ron grumbled, walking out with him.

Harry made his way down the quiet hallway of the Burrow, the floor cold beneath his bare feet. He yawned, still groggy, and headed toward the bathroom. As he opened the door, he nearly bumped into Mr. Weasley, who was calmly exiting while adjusting his glasses with his usual cheerful smile.

"Good morning, Harry! Did you sleep well?"

"I did, sir. Maybe a bit too well..." Harry replied with a sheepish smile, scratching the back of his neck. "Mrs. Weasley was worried?"

"A little," Mr. Weasley answered kindly, "but only because she cares. We're just glad you finally got some rest. After everything, it's good to see you sleeping peacefully."

Harry nodded with a small smile, feeling that warm, comforting feeling only the Weasleys could bring.

"Thank you... I really needed it," he said as he stepped into the bathroom and closed the door behind him.

He stared at himself in the mirror. His hair was messier than usual, his eyes slightly puffy from sleep, but there was a peace in his expression he hadn't seen in a long time. Without realizing, he smiled. Brushing his teeth, such a mundane task, suddenly felt special. The toothbrush had a soft, pleasant texture, and the mint toothpaste was particularly refreshing, almost like a scoop of magical mint ice cream. Even the water he splashed on his face felt cooler and purer, as if it had come from a spring hidden deep within a forest. When he looked back into the mirror, his reflection smiled back with a goofy expression. It was the first time in a long while that he felt so inexplicably happy over something so simple.

As he made his way downstairs, barefoot and still a bit sluggish, Harry was welcomed by the comforting smell of fresh bread and something spiced with cinnamon coming from the kitchen. The low hum of feminine voices filled the air, mixing with the clinking of cutlery and the gentle bubbling of something cooking on the stove.

In the kitchen, he found Hermione and Ginny seated at the table, chatting animatedly. Hermione gestured with excitement, a book open in front of her, while Ginny laughed with a knowing look, holding a steaming mug between her hands. Molly Weasley stood near the stove, stirring a large pot with a wooden spoon, her face glowing in the soft morning light pouring in through the windows. The muffled sounds of cartoons came from the next room, where Ron was sprawled lazily on the sofa, watching TV with a bowl of cereal balanced on his lap.

Ginny leaned against the counter, helping Molly cut fruit. She wore an oversized Holyhead Harpies Quidditch shirt with the number one on the back and simple denim shorts. Her red hair was tied up in a high ponytail, and she looked relaxed and comfortable, completely at home.

Hermione, seated at the table, wore a long-sleeved cream knit sweater, slightly slipping off one shoulder to reveal the strap of a white tank top beneath. The sweater was loose and soft, with delicate floral embroidery along the hem. She wore light grey linen trousers that ended just above her ankles, and on her feet were white socks with tiny embroidered stars. Her brown hair was tied in a messy bun, with a few strands falling to frame her face gently.

"I really like this sweater, it's so cozy... feels like it was made for me," Hermione was saying as she gently touched the fabric. "Thanks again for lending it to me. If I had only packed jackets, I'd be melting right now."

"Don't mention it," Ginny replied with a smile. "Told you to grab whatever you wanted. Honestly, it looks better on you than it does on me."

Their conversation halted when they noticed Harry standing at the kitchen entrance. He wore a simple white tank top, showing off shoulders and arms that had grown more defined over time, and a pair of dark jeans. He was barefoot, and his glasses rested comfortably on his nose. His hair, unusually tamed, probably thanks to the cold water, added to the air of quiet peace surrounding him.

Hermione looked at him for a moment, visibly caught off guard. Their eyes met, and for a heartbeat, no one said anything.

"Good morning, Harry," she said at last, her voice soft as she tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, a faint blush rising in her cheeks.

"Good morning, Hermione, Ginny, Mrs. Weasley," Harry replied with a slightly embarrassed tone, casting a shy glance at Hermione before hurrying to the nearest chair and sitting down beside her.

"Are you alright, dear?" Molly asked, pausing at the stove to look at him with concern. "You didn't wake up at your usual time, so I asked Ron to check on you."

"I'm fine, thank you, Molly," Harry said with a gentle smile, reaching for an empty cup and pouring himself some tea.

As he poured the tea, Molly turned sharply toward the living room at the sound of the TV and caught Ron snacking again.

"Ronald Weasley! Turn off those cartoons this instant and come help in here! If you keep eating junk before lunch, you'll ruin your appetite!"

"But Mum..." Ron mumbled through a mouthful of cereal.

"No buts! Get up and help your sister set the table. And don't think we've forgotten you've been sleeping on the couch out of sheer laziness!"

Too tired to argue, Ron let out a long sigh and trudged into the kitchen with a grumpy look.

"Sorry about that, dears," Molly said, turning back to Harry and Hermione with a patient smile. "But you know how it is. If I let Ron do everything his way, this house would be chaos in two days."

Everyone in the kitchen laughed at her comment except Ron, who rolled his eyes as he reached for the plates.

"Let me help," Harry said, getting up to join his friend, still smiling.

Hermione stood as well, gathering the teapot and cups while continuing the conversation.

"I was just talking to Ginny about Hogwarts, Harry. She's going back too, and she seems pretty excited."

"Yeah, it's about time," Ginny agreed, starting to lay out cutlery for everyone. "It's nice to have a change. I was starting to get sad from being stuck at home for so long... and I never thought I'd say that."

"That's because you don't have to take N.E.W.T.s," Ron muttered. "Not even Quidditch makes up for those horrible exams."

"Then you'd better start preparing, Ronald Weasley," Molly said firmly, spoon in hand and an intimidating look on her face. "If you've got time to watch cartoons, you've got time to review everything you learned over the years at Hogwarts!"

Seeing her stern glare, Ron quickly hurried to set the plates without arguing.

"Talking about Hogwarts, are we?" came Arthur's cheerful voice as he descended the stairs with a briefcase in hand. "Wonderful! Simply wonderful! I think you're all going to love the changes they've made to the castle."

He sat down at the table with excitement, placing the briefcase on the worn wooden surface and pulling out several folded scrolls.

"You know, Harry, I'm really glad you agreed to go back. I'm heading to the Ministry today to inform the Minister about your return to Hogwarts. It'll mean a great deal to the parents and students this year. A sign that things are getting better."

Harry turned toward Mr. Weasley and nodded with a small smile.

"I'm happy to help," he said. "It's nice to be going back with everything feeling calm again."

"Exactly, Harry!" Mr. Weasley exclaimed, opening the briefcase fully and sliding a stack of parchment across the table. "These are for all of you. Your supply lists for seventh year at Hogwarts."

Hermione immediately reached for hers, unrolling it with curiosity.

"Oh, they've added Advanced Theoretical Charms and a new edition of Defensive Magical Practices... and we'll need reinforced cauldrons again," she murmured, scanning the list. "Honestly, I think this year might be the most intense one yet."

Harry raised his eyebrows, still a bit surprised.

"Already?"

"Of course, Harry," replied Arthur with a contained laugh. "We've been organizing this for weeks with Minerva at the Ministry. We want to make sure everything is ready for a fresh start at Hogwarts. And now that you're all of age, you can go to Diagon Alley to do your shopping on your own! I'd love to take you, but with work being so hectic lately, Molly and I need to head to the Ministry today... Percy just got promoted!"

"He's a source of pride," said Molly with a proud smile. "He even invited you both, you know? Harry and Hermione, if you want to go, you're more than welcome. And before you complain, Ron, you're coming with us to your brother's ceremony, and I don't want to hear any excuses."

"But mum..." Ron grumbled with a sigh. "I hate going to the Ministry..."

"He's your brother, and we need the family to be together for something important, my son. Even George is making an effort and coming too," said Molly firmly.

"Alright, I'll go..." Ron replied, defeated.

"Perfect!" Arthur exclaimed, his eyes shining. "Harry, Hermione, now that Ron agreed to come with us without too much complaining, I'd love it if you came too. But I imagine you'd rather spend the day going to Diagon Alley and doing your shopping at a more relaxed pace, right?"

"Yeah, sounds like a great idea," Harry replied, nodding with a subtle smile. "It'll be good to walk around a bit and get everything done."

"I agree," Hermione added, still holding her list. "There are some specific things I need to look for. Better take care of it today."

The lunch was enjoyable. Molly had prepared a meatloaf along with small rolls, and during the meal, Arthur remained excited, telling everyone about the ongoing reforms and meetings at the Ministry of Magic. Harry seemed a little distracted by the conversation while Hermione debated with Arthur about the new standards for making cauldrons for wizards a measure based on a report done by Percy Weasley. That report had been so precise and important that it earned him a promotion at the Ministry.

With a flick of her wand, Molly gathered the used plates and pans and went upstairs to change clothes to accompany Arthur. Ginny said goodbye to Harry and Hermione before heading upstairs to change as well to go to the Ministry.

"Aren't you going to change?" Hermione asked, looking at Ron.

"What? Should I?" Ron said disinterestedly.

"Maybe going to the Ministry with a sauce stain on your shirt isn't the most presentable, Ron," Harry said with a laugh, looking at his friend. "But if you're okay with it, just imagine your mum's screams when she sees you didn't change."

"It's true," Ron grumbled. "I won't be able to stand a whole day with Mum yelling at me." Ron got up from the table and started walking toward the stairs. "Bring me something from Diagon Alley, could be some sweets or even a toy, I don't know. I wanted to come with you, but I have to go with Mum and Dad."

"Don't worry, Ron, I'll bring you a cauldron full of sweets," Harry said with a smile.

"Relax, Ron, we'll bring enough to give you a toothache for a week," Hermione said, giving him a playful look.

"I'll see you later then," Ron said as he climbed the stairs to his room to change clothes.

Now Harry and Hermione were left alone in the kitchen. For a moment, their eyes met, and they were finally alone. The air was tense. Harry didn't know what to say. Hermione was adjusting her hair while rereading the list of supplies for seventh year. Wanting to break the silence, Harry gathered the courage to start a conversation.

"It's been a while since I've been to Diagon Alley. I wonder what it's like now," Harry said, looking at Hermione as she analyzed the parchment in her hands.

"I heard they revamped some of the shops," Hermione said, still staring at the parchment. "Harry, you have to see this. We have four additional books this year alone. It seems like Headmistress Minerva wasn't kidding when she said she was going to revitalize Hogwarts." Hermione folded the parchment and turned her gaze toward Harry. "It's good that we're doing this today. Just thinking that we not only have to buy for the two of us but also for Ron and Ginny... I think we'll be out all day."

"I wouldn't mind spending the whole day out with you," Harry said, realizing that his friend's gaze was fixed on him. "I mean... it'll be fun, don't you think? It's been quite a while since we went out together, don't you think?" Harry scratched the back of his head and started to ruffle his hair to hide his embarrassment. Hermione just smiled at his words.

"That's true! We'll also need new uniforms. I think mine don't fit anymore, and I believe you need new clothes too, Harry."

"That's true," Harry said, reaching for his list and pretending to read the contents. "I think we can use the old passage from the Leaky Cauldron. What do you think? We could take the subway there."

Hermione raised an eyebrow in surprise, then laughed.

"Subway?" she asked, laughing. "Harry, you're an adult wizard, we could just Apparate there."

"I know, but..." Harry shrugged, feeling a little embarrassed. "I like taking the subway, I admit. I still haven't gotten used to Apparating... The sensation... it's not the best. Every time I Apparate, it feels like I'm being squeezed through a hose."

Hermione laughed again, finding Harry's confession amusing.

"I get it, Harry. I took a while to get used to Apparating too. But if you prefer the subway, who am I to judge?"

Harry smiled, relieved that she didn't find it strange, but their conversation was soon interrupted by the sound of footsteps coming down the stairs.

The sound of feet on the wooden stairs echoed through the house, and soon Molly, Ginny, and Ron appeared at the kitchen door. Molly was already wearing her coat, her expression showing urgency, while Ginny smiled at Harry and Hermione in a friendly manner.

"Come on, come on, come on! We don't have all day!" said Molly, her voice maternal but hurried. They walked toward the fireplace connected to the Floo Network to travel to the Ministry. Ron gave one last look at his friends as he squeezed beneath the fireplace to join his parents.

"I'll see you both later!" said Arthur, as he filled his hand with Floo powder and then said aloud, "Ministry of Magic!" With a flash of green flames, the Weasleys disappeared, leaving Harry and Hermione alone.

"It's amazing every time I see it," Hermione said. "It would be useful to set up a Floo Network at my parents' house. It's much more convenient than Apparating." She then stood up. "I need to comb my hair and grab my bag, I won't take long, Harry."

"Right, I need to change too," Harry got up and started walking toward his room.

Harry changed quickly, putting on a long-sleeved shirt and a bit of cologne, trying to impress Hermione, though he felt a little nervous about it. When he left his room, he walked into the living room, where Hermione was already waiting for him.

She was standing by the window, her hair perfectly wavy, with a small accessory that highlighted her natural beauty. Her eyes sparkled, and she looked even more enchanting under the soft morning light. That simple detail in her hair made all the difference, making her stunning in a unique way. When she saw him, she smiled, and Harry felt a wave of nervousness and excitement at once.

"Ready?" Harry asked, trying to hide the slight tension in his voice.

"Ready!" Hermione replied, smiling genuinely and extending her hand to Harry. "Let's go then."

Harry stood still for a moment, looking at her extended hand, not quite understanding what was happening. That simple gesture caught him off guard, and he wasn't sure how to respond.

"What's wrong, Harry?" Hermione asked, noticing his confused look.

"Nothing, it's just... your hand looks nice." Harry didn't know what he was saying, and the words came out awkwardly. He quickly tried to backpedal from what he had just said, avoiding her gaze.

Hermione laughed, a soft sound that made Harry's face turn slightly red.

"Thank you!" she said, still smiling. "Now, come on, take my hand already!"

Harry looked at her, still not entirely sure what was going on, but he didn't hesitate to take Hermione's hand. Her fingers fit perfectly in his, and he felt a warm sensation in his chest, a comforting feeling. It was a simple thing, but somehow, he felt more at ease, more present, with her hand in his.

"Taking your hand, but why?" he asked, trying to mask his discomfort with a silly joke.

"Because we're going to Apparate, silly!" Hermione said in a warm tone, her eyes still shining. "You said you don't like Apparating, so hold my hand. Let me take us to the Leaky Cauldron. I know you love the subway, but we don't have time for that. When we get there, I'll buy you a butterbeer, how does that sound?"

Harry looked at her for a moment, an involuntary smile spreading across his face. He even tried to say something in response, but couldn't. Everything felt right that way. The way she spoke, the way she was there, so calm and natural. For a moment, he forgot about his resistance to Apparating. He just wanted to be there with her, in that moment.

"Alright then... Let's go!" he replied, trying to sound more relaxed than he actually felt.

Hermione nodded, still smiling. Without wasting any time, she closed her eyes for a moment, squeezing his hand. He felt the familiar pull, the characteristic sensation of Apparating, and the world around him started to spin.

It was always strange, that twisting sensation in his stomach, that feeling of being whisked rapidly from one place to another. But when the movement stopped, and Harry opened his eyes, he realized they were at the Leaky Cauldron. The noise of the place, the chatter, and the familiar smell of butterbeer filled the air.

Hermione released his hand and looked at Harry with a satisfied smile.

"We're here!" she said, relieved that her Apparition had gone smoothly. "Now, let's grab our things."