I Promise
by H/Hr Love

Rating: PG13
Ship: Harry & Hermione
Canon: Books 1 - 6
Genre: Drama, Romance
Status: Complete
Length: 29,044 words in 18 chapters
Published: 10 Jul 2006
Last updated: 31 Dec 2009

It's been 10 years since the trio has graduated from Hogwarts. Harry left the on graduation day to fight Voldemort.
Hermione and Ron haven't heard from him since. Now, the Hogwarts 10 Year Reunion is coming up, and Hermione will face
Harry for the first time since they kissed on graduation day. Will anything ever be the same? H/Hr, D/G, & R/LL.

From the Unofficial Portkey Archive: https://portkey-archive.org/story/6257/

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1. I Don't Want To Miss A Thing

Chapter One: "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing"

A/N: This is the first chapter of my fan fiction. You may be wondering why Ron and Hermione are currently dating, but I
swear it will make sense the more you read. Please read and review. Thanks =]

Hermione Granger sat alone in her room, her nose stuffed inside of her charms book. She had to prepare her lesson for
her teaching the next day. After writing another line or two, she sighed, putting down her quill. Looking around, she
felt a sense of alone. Looking down, she realized that she was alone. She was never going to stop feeling alone.

There was a knock on the door. Hermione turned, running her fingers through her brown hair. She slowly made her way
towards the door and opened it. Ron Weasley, her best friend and boyfriend, stood there holding pink roses. His red
longish hair had been combed and his cheeks were flushed. In fact, they were pretty much the same color as the flowers.
Hermione sighed silently, realizing that Ron had forgotten yet again. How many times had Ron told her that she disliked
pink roses and preferred red roses or daises? Obviously, Ron was a very forgetful person.

Hermione forced a smile. It was the thought that counted, and Ron's thought was in the right direction. There was no
need to be angry with Ron for no reason. Although, he was a bit tactless. "Thanks, Ron. I totally forgot you were coming
over today." Hermione looked down at herself, wincing. She hadn't even showered yet. All day she had been reading. "I'm
a complete mess."

Ron leaned in for a quick kiss. Hermione felt his cold lips on hers. For some reason, she just didn't love him anymore.
Not like before. That was then, and this was now.

Hermione wondered why she had gone out with Ron in the first place. At first, they had gotten together to comfort each
other. They both were worried about Harry, and only had each other to lean on. After that, it was all a blur. Hermione
remembered being very happy at some point with Ron, but now… now things were different. It wasn't as if Hermione was
unhappy, she was just tired.

"You've been so distracted lately, " complained Ron, "you never remember anything. What happened to the super smart girl
I used to date?"

Hermione felt insulted. First, Ron didn't even ask why she was so distracted. And now he was insulting her by telling
her she wasn't smart anymore? Hermione realized that her sense of disgust was noticeable.

"Hey, Hermione…" He gave her another small kiss on her cheek. Hermione tried not to flinch. "I didn't mean it that way,
alright? Calm down. You're always on the edge. You're not nervous for the school reunion, are you?"

Hermione shrugged. She had thought a lot about the reunion in fact. There was no way she could face Harry after the last
time they had been together…

"Harry, we've done it." Hermione smiled, still not believing that they had graduated. It was the last day of Hogwarts.
"And I've been offered a Charms position in America. The school is called Massachusetts Witchcraft and Wizardry."

The two of them were standing in the corridor, near the Gryffindor Common Room. Nobody was in sight. Hermione had a
feeling everyone had gone to the common room to pack and celebrate their graduation. Hermione, however, had forgotten
her ancient runes book and had gone back to get it. Instead, she had run into Harry.

Harry grinned, looking at her admiringly. "You know I'm proud of you, right?"

Hermione's smile faded. Harry looked so worried about something. He rarely spoke about anything anymore. He was so
distant towards everything. He was constantly fidgeting and wouldn't look her in the eye for more than second. Something
was very wrong. Hermione could sense it.

"Harry," Hermione whispered softly, "What's wrong?"

"Nothing." Harry's answer came a little too quickly. Hermione knew there was something wrong.

"Tell me," Hermione coaxed, putting her arm on his shoulder. "You can tell me anything. You should know that."

Harry took a deep breath, looking around to make sure nobody was in sight. He swallowed, and then looked away from
Hermione, as if he couldn't bear to seeing her reaction. "I… I have to leave. I have to fight."

Hermione looked shocked. She was dreading what he was going to say next. "What do you mean, Harry?" She felt numb all
over, and didn't even know why she asked the question. It was obvious what Harry had meant.

“I mean, it's time. I have to leave tonight. I don't want to make a big deal out of this. I'm just going to… go. And
deal with how everything turns out."

"But…” Hermione gaped. He was planning on just leaving without saying goodbye? “When will you be back?"

Harry shrugged, looking down. He shook his head. "I don't know."

"Well then…" Hermione's eyes welled up with tears She blinked, trying to hold back the tears, but it was no use.
"Goodbye?"

"I'll see you soon," Harry promised, forcing a small smile. Hermione shook her head.

"You can't promise that, Harry."

He looked her in the eye, tears starting to flow down his cheeks. "If you believe in me, Hermione… I will come back
alive. I promise you."

She hugged him close, her tears mixing with his tears. "I love you, Harry."

Without realizing what he was doing, Harry lifted his face up to hers and kissed her slowly and passionately. Hermione
deepened the kiss, and for a few minutes, Harry lost himself in her. Finally, they broke apart reluctantly.

"Never forget me, okay?"

She shook her head, tears streaming down her face. "How could I forget someone that kisses like that?" Her voice was
bitter and pained.

Harry tried to laugh, but it came out as a choke. He hugged her close. "I love you, too, Hermione."

She looked away. "When will I see you again?"

Harry smiled slightly. "I'll see you every night. In your dreams."

"Promise?" she asked, clinging to his arm. She didn't want to let go of his arm. She didn't want to let him go fight
Voldemort, but she knew she had to.

“I promise."

She released his arm and watched him walk away, crying. From that day on, Hermione promised to never forget Harry
Potter, the guy that changed her life.

Ron shook Hermione out of her flashback. "You feeling alright, Mione? You're not nervous about the reunion, are you?"

Hermione shrugged. "I guess I just realized that we're going to see Harry for the first time ever since he disappeared."

What was it that Hermione loved about Harry? Hermione smiled slightly to herself. She knew exactly what it was. Harry
knew Hermione. Harry understood Hermione in a way Ron never could. Harry knew the right things to say, and admired
Hermione's goals. He could always make her feel better.

Ron, on the other hand, was always clueless. He could never tell when Hermione was upset like Harry could. When there
was something wrong, Ron would just kiss Hermione, thinking that would solve the situation, instead of listening to her
problems. Half the time, when Hermione told Ron she was in a bad mood, he would just drop her at home and tell her that
she needed some time to herself.

Ron looked slightly disgusted. "I can't believe he bailed on us like that. No goodbye or anything. I'm his best mate! He
could have told me where he was going and when he was coming back. I haven't heard from him since our graduation ten
years ago."

Hermione closed her eyes, trying to remember how Harry's lips felt on hers. Ron cleared his throat loudly, and
Hermione's eyes shot open.

"I know you forgot we were going out to eat, but well I'm here, and you're here, so are you still up for it?" Ron asked
hopefully.

Hermione smiled faintly. There was no point in disappointing Ron. "Sorry I've been so out of it lately, Ron. I'd love to
go." She leaned in and gave Ron a peck on his lips.

Hermione had no idea what she was doing with her life anymore. In fact, she had no idea why she was with Ron. Hermione
knew she just didn't want to break up with Ron. She couldn't hurt him. It wasn't as if she didn't love him, because she
did. At some point in the relationship, she was convinced that she loved him more than any other guy. It was just…
Harry.

Harry was supposed to have contacted her, yet Hermione hadn't heard from him in ten years. The kiss between the two of
them probably meant nothing to Harry. Not contacting Hermione was Harry's way of saying that he didn't want anything
between them.

Hermione sighed heavily. She wasn't going to sit around waiting for Harry to show up. That way, if Harry ever showed up,
she could show him that she had moved on in life.

"Okay let's get going. " Ron rushed towards the door and held it open for Hermione. Hermione turned around and took one
last look at the picture of herself and Harry smiling in their seventh year. She blinked and then turned around to walk
out the door, trying not to give the picture a second glance.

A/N: So what did you think? Please rate and review.

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2. It Makes Me Ill

Chapter Two: "It Makes Me Ill"

A/N: Wow, I wasn't expecting so many reviews. Thanks so much for them… they made my day. I love all of my readers! Sorry
this chapter is a bit on the short side, I wanted to update before I leave on vacation. Although I'll be gone for a
week, leave me lots of reviews and I might just be able to update twice while I'm gone.

So read, review, and enjoy. (:

Ron threw his trunk against the wall in frustration. The impact was loud and very audible. Ron saw a stream of red hair
fly as Ginny ran into the room, looking panicked.

"Ron," she glared, "I thought you were old enough to handle living on your own here, but it's obvious you're not."

Ron sighed. He had invited Ginny over to view his new apartment, but he had been so frustrated after his date with
Hermione that he was in no mood to entertain guests.

"Sorry, Ginny," Ron muttered, looking sincerely sorry. It wasn't her fault he was in such a bad mood. "She's just so
difficult to manage!"

Ginny picked up his trunk and put it back against the wall. Then she walked over towards Ron and took a seat next to him
on his bed. "Ron, are you and Hermione having some trouble again?"

Ron looked at her angrily. His nostrils were flaring. "I told him to stay out of it! I told him not to contact Hermione
or me anymore. I told him to get out of our lives and stay that way. But his absence is destroying our relationship. And
I thought getting rid of him would solve our problems."

Ginny looked at him, utterly confused. She had no idea what was going on. "What are you talking about, Ron?"

"I told Harry not to contact anyone. There. Happy?" Ron flung himself from the bed and stomped off towards the living
room. Ginny followed closely, shocked. Her pulse was racing and her eyes were wide with disbelief.

"Harry doesn't contact us anymore because you told him not to?" Ginny asked in mistrust. She was having some trouble
registering this. There was a look of shock plastered on her face. "I knew Harry wasn't cruel enough to just cut all of
his friends off like that."

Ron looked at Ginny crossly. "I saw Harry and Hermione kiss the day that they left. He told her goodbye, and not me."
Ron sat down on the sofa, fighting back tears. "My best mate kissed my to-be girlfriend goodbye, but didn't even tell me
he was leaving. How do you think I felt, Ginny?"

"Horrible," Ginny whispered softly. She gave her brother a small hug. "I'm so sorry, Ron…"

Ron looked back at Ginny, determined to finish his story. "So about three years ago, when Hermione and I had just
started dating, I ran into Harry at the Ministry. Apparently he'd just recovered from his battle. He was thrilled to see
me, although he looked kind of weak, and asked me where Hermione was staying."

Anger flashed in Ron's eyes. Ginny put her arm on his shoulder, trying to coax him into telling her the full story. "Go
on, Ron," she whispered softly.

Ron took a deep breath. "Anyhow, I told him that the two of us were dating. I told him that we were in love. I told him
that one day Hermione and I were going to get married, and I told him to make sure he stayed out of our relationship."

Ginny looked pained. "Why would you cut Harry off from all of us, Ron? You know he would have left you guys alone. He
cares, Ron."

Ron sighed, looking very guilty. "Hermione loves Harry more than she loves me. I know it. She has a picture of Harry and
herself on her nightstand, and looks at it every day before she goes to bed. I thought making sure she didn't see Harry
again would make her forget about him and love me even more. But I can tell all she wants is to see him again."

"Oh Ron," Ginny whispered, not sure how to comfort her brother, "I'm so sorry. If only you had told me…"

"I was ashamed," Ron muttered, hanging his head, "I was ashamed that I cut off my best mate for a girl who doesn't even
love me."

"Hermione loves you, Ron. She does," Ginny told him sincerely. It was obvious that she was trying to make sure that the
conversation didn't get out of hand. "She just misses Harry. He's her best friend as well, remember?"

Ron, keen to change the subject, turned abruptly to Ginny. "Anyhow, Gin, how are you holding up? You haven't seen anyone
since you and Harry went out in seventh year."

Ginny shrugged. "I guess I'm a little hung up on Harry."

Ron smiled thoughtfully at her. "Wouldn't it be nice if you and Harry got back together? You'd be happy, and he'd stop
going after my girlfriend."

Ginny sighed, forcing a small smile. She stood up abruptly. "I've got to go, okay Ron? Mum's planning on having a family
get together in a few weeks. It'll probably be after the reunion, though. So I guess I'll see you at the reunion or the
get together at the Burrow, alright?"

Ron nodded slowly, and watched Ginny walk towards the door. "Ginny?" he called after her.

Ginny turned around slowly. "Yeah, Ron?"

Ron smiled. "Thanks for everything. Thanks for coming to check out my place and for cheering me up. It was… nice to have
someone to talk to."

She smirked, brushing her flaming red hair back. "Don't get used to it." With that, Ginny headed out of the apartment.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Ron sighed, fiddling with his fork as Hermione stared blankly at her shoes, pretending to be interested in them. Ron
purposely made a loud bang as he put down the fork, but Hermione didn't even flinch. Annoyed, Ron cleared his throat
loudly. Hermione's eyes blinked and she looked up at Ron.

"Sorry, Ron. Did you say something?" Hermione asked, looking alarmingly distracted.

"I was wondering if you know what you're ordering yet," Ron responded, acting as though nothing was wrong. It was quite
clear to him that something was completely, totally wrong. At the back of his mind, Ron knew that it wasn't working out.
The two of them hardly said two words to each other throughout the evening. It was almost as if they were together
because they had to, not by choice.

Hermione shrugged. "Anything's fine. I'll just have the pasta with grilled chicken I suppose."

Ron looked at her, concerned. It was time to figure out what was bothering Hermione. He knew that both of them had been
avoiding the subject. "Are you feeling okay, Mione? You've been really down lately…"

Hermione looked as though she was about to break out in tears. She gave Ron a long, passionate kiss, before whispering,
"I'm so sorry, Ron. I've been a terrible girlfriend. I promise I'll make it up to you. Just… don't give up on me, okay?
I'm going through kind of a rough time, and I would hate to lose the one person that means so much to me."

"Aww, Hermione…" Ron looked relieved. This meant that Hermione wasn't interested in breaking up. Her job was probably
just a little stressful. After all, Hermione was the type of girl to work way too hard. She just didn't know where to
draw the line when it came to work.

Ron kissed Hermione. Hermione slowly intensified the kiss. Ron felt his heart get light. It was as if their relationship
had a whole new beginning. "I love you, Mione," Ron whispered huskily, "I don't know what I'd do without you."

"Shh…" Hermione whispered, kissing him again. "I'm not very hungry. Let's go see your new apartment."

Ron grinned. Maybe things would work out after all. "Oh yeah, and you'll escort me to the Hogwarts Reunion, right?"

Hermione's smile fell a bit. "Absolutely. Anything for you."

A/N: Reviews are appreciated and acknowledged. I respond to every review I get. Thanks <3

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3. What Happened To Us?

Chapter Three: "What Happened to Us?"

A/N: Thank you SO MUCH for all the reviews. Really, you guys don't know what it means to me. I won't have internet
access for the next 10 days so please, leave me lots of reviews so that I update as soon as I have internet access
again.

Hermione crossed another day off her calendar. There was only another week until the Hogwarts Reunion. One more week
until she saw Harry Potter again. It had been ten years since she had last seen her best friend, and she longed to see
his caring face and beautiful smile.

"One more week," Hermione whispered under her breath. "Do you miss me, Harry?"

Hermione picked her picture of Harry up slowly to kiss it. Just as she was about to do so, however, someone banged on
her front door. Startled, Hermione dropped the picture frame. The glass shattered into tiny pieces.

Hermione swore under her breath and dug through her pocket for her wand. She quickly repaired the shattered picture
frame. The knock came again. "Who is it?" Hermione called, exasperated. She silently hoped it wasn't Ron. She was in no
mood to go out with him.

"It's Ginny," a small voice called from just outside the door. Ginny paused for a moment. "Is this a bad time?"

Hermione smiled slightly. She hadn't talked to Ginny in a few months. "I'm coming, Ginny. Just give me a moment."

Hermione put the picture back on her nightstand before standing up. She headed towards the door with a small smile on
her face. It had been ages since she had seen her friend. She opened door, and saw a blur of long red hair. The next
thing she knew, she was in the embrace of Ginny.

"Oh, Mione, I've missed you like crazy," Ginny grinned, hugging Hermione, "I don't know when the last time I saw you
was."

Hermione felt her mood brighten a bit. Ginny had a way of making everyone feel so much better. "Okay, okay," Hermione
laughed, "You're cutting off my circulation, Ginny."

Ginny pulled Hermione down onto Hermione's couch. "So tell me, Hermione. How's everything? We haven't talked for ages."

Hermione shrugged, propping her feet up on the coffee table. "Things are fine. Work is getting hectic. The kids I teach
are getting more and more restless now that the school year is almost over."

Ginny nodded. It was obvious to Hermione that Ginny wasn't referring to work. She was talking about Hermione's love
life. If there was one thing Ginny was interested in, it was love. Ginny herself had dating far more people than
Hermione had.

"And," Hermione added quickly, "Ron and I are doing great. We're going on what… our third year?"

Ginny smiled slightly, yet the smile wasn't totally convincing. She looked slightly concerned. "I'm happy for you if
you're happy, Hermione. Are you sure you're happy? You look so… worn out."

Hermione tried to give Ginny her cheeriest face, but was having trouble doing so. "I'm completely happy with Ron, Ginny.
It's just… we've been bickering a bit lately, and I hope we resolve everything."

Ginny put her arm around Hermione. "It'll get better, I promise. Ron talks about nothing but you. He really does love
you, Hermione."

"Yeah, I know."

Hermione sighed. Why did Ron have to love her? There were so many other people he could have chosen; yet he chose her.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Ron listened to the phone ring, his heart beating fast. Why wouldn't she pick up the phone?

"Ginny… pick up the bloody phone," he muttered under his breath. Finally there was an answer.

"Hello?" Ginny's voice came on the line. She sounded out of breath.

"Ginny. Hi. It's Ron."

Ginny sounded surprised. "And why may I ask are you calling me? I'm your sister, if you haven't forgotten."

"I want to propose to Hermione," Ron blurted out. Ron knew he probably shouldn't have gone right to the point, but he
couldn't help it. Ginny was Hermione's best female friend, and Ron needed her input.

"Well… Ron," Ginny said slowly, "This is quite a surprise." Ron tried to read the expression in her voice, but there was
none.

Ron sighed. "Yeah, I know, Gin, but I really love her. And I'm not planning on having the wedding anytime soon. It's
just… I want to know she's mine forever. I can't risk losing her."

Ginny paused for a moment. "This is about Harry, isn't it? You're afraid once Hermione sees Harry at the reunion, she'll
take off with him. Aren't I right?"

Ron didn't answer. He didn't want to admit that, like always, Ginny was right. She always was right when it came down to
dating-related situations. Ron, on the other hand, knew nothing about dating. He just didn't understand girls.

Ginny laughed. "You know I'm always right, Ronald."

"Fine, fine, I admit it, Genevra," Ron answered crossly, "I want to keep her to myself. Is that too much to ask?"

"If she truly loves you, she'll stay with you, Ron. You don't need a ring to keep her faithful if she really does love
you," Ginny answered simply.

Ron groaned. Ginny wasn't being at all helpful. "So are you telling me that I shouldn't propose to Hermione?"

"I'm telling you to do whatever you want to," Ginny answered, "I'm just merely giving my input on the situation. And by
the way, I went to go see Hermione today. It just so happens that we discussed you."

Ron's interest perked up a bit. Ginny had gone to see Hermione? How come Ginny hadn't told him sooner? How come Hermione
hadn't told him this? He then realized that he hadn't even talked to Hermione today. "Ginny, you've got to tell me. What
did she say? I knew it, she loves Harry more…"

Ginny scoffed. "Do you want to make up what Hermione said, or would you rather hear what she actually said?" Ron could
detect that Ginny was getting a little impatient with him.

"Fine," Ron answered impatiently, "Tell me."

"She says that she's really happy with you, Ron," Ginny responded honestly, "She just wishes that the bickering between
the two of you ends. She thinks that the two of you argue too much, and feels that she can't have a relationship with
someone she doesn't exactly get along with."

"I won't argue anymore," Ron answered quickly, "And I'll always agree with her. No matter what. God, Ginny, I don't want
to lose her."

"I know you don't, Ron," Ginny whispered, "But would you keep her from someone else just so that you don't lose her?"

Ron didn't answer that comment. Instead, he hung up the phone. He didn't even want to think of the possibility. At that
moment, Ron felt sick in the stomach. He really didn't want to go to the Hogwarts Reunion.

A/N: Okay, so its obvious that the reunion is coming up soon. More reviews = Update as soon as I come back (: Love you
guys <3

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4. Over And Over

Chapter Four: "Over and Over"

A/N: Wow so many reviews (: Thank you guys so much. I'll reply to all your reviews once my vacation is over. For now,
here's the next chapter. It's the last of the short chapters, but theres some important stuff in this chapter.

Lavender Brown twirled around in her dress, her long brown hair flying. "So, what do you think, Hermione? Ginny? Do you
think this is the dress for the reunion?"

Ginny looked at Lavender admiringly. "You look beautiful, Lavender. You're going to blow Seamus away."

Seamus Finnigan was Lavender's current boyfriend. They were planning on attending the reunion together.

Ginny called to Hermione, who was still inside the fitting room, trying on her dress. "Hermione? Are you almost done
changing? Lavender's already come out with her dress."

"Honestly, Ginny, I look ugly in this dress. I don't think I should come out," Hermione answered from inside the fitting
room. She sounded nervous. Ginny laughed.

"Don't joke with me, Hermione. You could never look ugly in anything. I'm sure you look lovely. Now come on out.
Lavender and I are the only ones that can judge whether you look ugly or not."

Hermione sighed heavily, acceding. "Fine, I'm coming out. But you have to promise not to laugh."

Lavender rolled her eyes. She too knew that the dress couldn't look that bad. "Come out already, Hermione."

Slowly and blushing, Hermione emerged from the dressing room. Lavender's jaw dropped, and Ginny was so shocked she
couldn't even speak. Hermione was stunningly gorgeous in her dress.

Hermione looked at Ginny and Lavender nervously. "So, is it that bad that you can't even answer?"

Ginny shook her head slowly. "Hermione… you look amazing. Ron is going to drop dead when he sees you in that."

Lavender nodded. "My dress looks ugly on me compared to that one on you. There's no way you aren't getting it."

Hermione blushed. "Thanks you guys. I'll get it." She checked the price tag, and then her smile faded.

"What's wrong?" Ginny asked softly, although she already knew the answer. The dress was obviously too expensive.

Hermione sighed. She looked gravely disappointed. "It's too expensive. I can't afford such a fancy dress. It's not like
my teaching job pays me that much."

Ginny handed her a few galleons with a small smile. "Does that make it less expensive?"

Lavender handed her a few galleons as well. "Come on, Hermione, you have to buy this."

Hermione tried to give her friends back the money. She didn't want to be pitied on just because she didn't have that
much money. Plus, it wasn't as if Ginny's family was that rich either. "No, you guys. That's awfully sweet, but I'll
find another dress that's cheaper. I promise."

Ginny shook her head firmly. She seemed very set on Hermione buying the dress. "If you don't buy it right now, I'm going
to buy it for you."

Hermione smiled, hugging her two friends. They truly were something special. "Thanks. You both are the best."

"We just want everyone to know how beautiful you are," Lavender smiled slightly, "The reunion is going to be fantastic.
Ron better keep you under a tight leash. All the guys will probably have their eye on you."

Hermione laughed. "One eye on me, one eye on you, Lav."

The three girls headed towards the counter to pay for the dresses they had picked out. Hermione smiled to herself, as
she pictured herself in the dress. She couldn't wait to see Harry… ehh Ron's reaction.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Hermione could tell that Ron was planning something that evening. He kept fidgeting and making sure something was still
in his pocket. Hermione assumed it was a gift for her. Ron usually gave her a necklace or something whenever he wanted
to make up for anything. It usually worked, because he had decent taste in jewelry. Hermione had a feeling Ginny picked
out the jewelry for Ron.

Hermione was trying to ignore the fidgeting and nervous glances, but it was getting slightly irritating. Ron wasn't
listening when Hermione was talking, and spaced out for long periods of time. Hermione decided to confront him.

"Ron, you usually ask me this question, but today it applies to you," Hermione said to him, "What's wrong?"

Ron swallowed and then took a deep breath. "Hermione, there's something I have to ask you."

Hermione felt her heart thump rapidly. Ron wouldn't… he couldn't. "What is it, Ron?" Hermione had a feeling she knew
what was going to happen. No, Ron wouldn't do this… not now, not right before the reunion…

Sure enough, just as Hermione had suspected, Ron got down on one knee, looking up into her eyes. He had a twisted, sort
of pained smile on his face. It was as if he was afraid, but excited at the same time. "Hermione Jane Granger, will you
marry me?"

Hermione felt like crying, laughing, and smiling at the same time. Someone had asked to marry her. And that someone was
Ronald Weasley, her best friend for seventeen years.

"Oh Ron…" she whispered, kissing him. She wrapped her arms around his neck, and kissed him keenly.

Ron broke the kiss after a few seconds. "Is that a yes, Hermione?" he breathed into her ear, "Because it's not like we
have to get married right away. I just want you to know that I'm yours. And I want you to be mine."

Hermione closed her eyes, picturing Harry. The image slowly faded. She knew that this was her chance to be with someone
who truly cared about her. It was her chance to have someone with her until she died. So what if Harry was the one?
There was no more Harry. There never was a Harry. Her relationship with Harry was something Hermione had just fantasized
about. It wasn't reality. However, her relationship with Ron was real. It was there.

But Hermione couldn't give up her slim chance with Harry. Whether it was a big chance or not, it was still a chance.
Hermione couldn't get herself engaged not knowing if there was something between herself and Harry. But this was a
one-time opportunity. Hermione knew that.

Hermione slowly opened her mouth to respond.

A/N: Yay cliffhanger (: Please review. Thank you =]

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5. Never Had A Dream Come True

Chapter Five: "Never Had a Dream Come True"

A/N: Thanks for all the fantastic reviews. I get more and more each chapter! You guys have no idea how happy you make
me. So here it is… the reunion. Enjoy & don't forget to review (:

"Yes, Ron." Hermione looked at him confidently, sure that she had made the right decision. There was no use in sitting
around, waiting for Harry to come back. Ron had stayed by her side the past ten years, and Harry hadn't. Ron was the
only one who had been there for Hermione. However, there was still that feeling in the pit of her stomach that told her
to wait for Harry. Hermione ignored it, however.

Ron looked at her, stunned. It looked as though he hadn't expected her to accept the proposal. "Do you mean it,
Hermione? Are you really giving your heart to me?"

Hermione nodded, tears welling up in her eyes. Gosh, why did she have to cry for everything? "Yes, Ron. Yes."

Ron smiled, kissing her. Tears were welling up in his eyes as well. "It's okay to cry, Mione. I can't believe it either.
We're going to get married."

And as they kissed, Hermione realized that the tears she was shedding weren't tears of happiness. She wasn't crying
because she was happy she was marrying Ron, she was crying because she knew she would never be with Harry.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Hermione pictured the decorated Great Hall in her head. Tonight was the Hogwarts Reunion. She was finally going to go
back to her old school.

Hermione checked the clock that hung on the wall. Ron was already seventeen minutes late. Hermione's hair was down and
she was dressed in her pink dress. The dress was simple, yet elegant at the same time. She stood in front of the mirror,
admiring herself.

"Okay, I don't look half bad," Hermione admitted to herself. "I definitely don't look like a bookworm." As she continued
to admire herself, the doorbell rang.

Hermione headed over towards the door and opened it slowly. Ron stood there in a suit, looking very uncomfortable,
carrying a bouquet of pink roses. Pink roses again. Would he ever learn that she didn't like them?

"To match your dress," Ron muttered, giving her a half smile. He handed the flowers to her. Hermione took them politely.

"Oh, Ron… thank you," Hermione smiled, looking up and down Ron. "You look great in that suit. I don't think I've seen
you in a suit for years."

Ron shrugged, looking uncomfortable. He wasn't the type to enjoy formal outings. "I don't exactly feel great in it." He
looked at her dress and gave her another half smile. "Is that a new dress?"

Hermione sighed. That was it? No compliment? No "you look gorgeous?" "Yes, Ron, it's a new dress."

Ron smiled at her. "Well uh the dress looks nice. And you look good in the dress as well."

"Was that an attempted compliment?" Hermione asked softly, a small smile plastered on her lips. Ron was terrible at
compliments, but his attempted compliments always reminded Hermione what she loved about him. She loved how he was so
hopelessly cute.

"I'm getting better," Ron replied hotly, taking her hand in his. Together, they apparated to the portkey that was to
take them to Hogwarts.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

"Wow, McGonagall has really outdone herself," Ron commented, looking around at the decorations. The sky up above was
decorated with dangling silver candles and each wall represented a different house. The walls had the animal that
represented each house and had the colors of the house. The Great Hall was cluttered with familiar faces dressed up in
fancy clothes.

Hermione nodded, distracted. She was glancing at the crowd, looking for Harry. He had to be here. McGonagall had said
that every single Hogwarts student was attending.

Hermione's stomach flipped a few times as she thought about her meeting with Harry. She had thought about it for weeks,
and had made up the conversation they'd have. Now that it was really the reunion, she could hardly believe it. She was
going to see Harry again tonight.

Ron dragged Hermione towards the food, eyeing the food in a greedy sort of way. "It's important to eat up before all the
good food is gone."

"I'm sure McGonagall has plenty, Ron," Hermione replied, feeling irritated. Was food the only thing Ron thought about?

Ron shrugged, stuffing his face. "I had to think of some excuse to eat now. I'm starved."

"You're always hungry, Ron," Hermione answered, disgusted. Honestly, was he ever going to learn to control his stomach?
"I'm going to go over towards the dance floor for a bit, okay? Meet me there once you're done eating. I want to catch up
with some old friends."

Ron waved her off, absorbed in his food. "Yeah, yeah whatever. I'll be done soon with all this food. I'll come get you
in twenty or so minutes, okay Mione?"

Hermione headed towards the dance floor, not replying Ron's last comment. A fast paced song had just turned into a slow
song… her favorite one, "Never Had A Dream Come True." Hermione watched as all the couples started slow dancing, wishing
she was there with them.

Suddenly, someone tapped her shoulder. Assuming it was Ron, she said, "Wow, you sure do eat fast, Ron." She turned
around to see a man with emerald eyes and messy black hair looking at her.

Hermione couldn't breathe. This was the moment she had been picturing for ten years- the day she saw Harry again. And
now that it was here, she had no idea what to say. He still had the same sort of messy and tall look to him, but he was
more handsome than before. He definitely looked a lot older.

Hermione stammered. "Uh… hello."

He offered her a hand, blushing slightly. He looked nervous. "Ehh… Hermione? Would you like to dance?"

Hermione nodded, her pulse racing. She swallowed. "Yeah. I mean, yes. I'd like that very much, Harry."

Harry nodded slowly, avoiding her glance. Harry led her onto the dance floor, and pulled her close. Hermione could
hardly breathe. Harry smelt like a past memory, a good memory. A memory of Hogwarts. For some reason, she felt so safe
and secure in his arms… a feeling she never had with Ron.

"I… " Hermione was at a loss for words. What do you say to your best friend who you haven't seen for ten years? "How are
you doing, Harry?"

Harry smiled slightly, and whispered softly, "You look beautiful, Hermione. Your hair, your dress… you're stunning."

Hermione blushed. Now that was how a true compliment was presented. Not like the stupid half compliments Ron gave her.
"You look great as well, Harry."

They danced for a few moments in silence. Then, Hermione asked the question she had been itching to ask since they had
started to dance. "Harry, I have to know… why didn't you contact me? I mean, I thought… I thought we were best friends."
She almost felt angry that Harry hadn't tried to contact her in the past ten years. Didn't she mean anything to him?
They were best friends, for the love of Merlin. Why hadn't he contacted his best friend?

"Look, Hermione, can we not talk about this now?" Harry pleaded, looking at her. It was obvious he was trying to avoid
the subject.

The song ended, and the two of them pulled away from each other slowly and regretfully. They sat down next to each other
in chairs.

“Harry,” Hermione begged, “I have to know. You have to understand… I need to know why you didn't contact me.”

Harry looked down and shook his head. “I can't tell you, Hermione… I just can't.” His tone was flat. “Look we… we don't
have much time. Please, I swear I will explain soon.” He looked back into her eyes.

"I've… I've missed you so much, Harry," Hermione whispered. Without notice, they both hugged each other tightly, and
Hermione felt something wet on her cheek. She realized that she was crying.

"I've missed you, too, Mione," he whispered into her hair. "More than you realize." He kissed her cheek and then slowly
made his way to her lips.

Hermione felt as though fireworks were exploding in her head. Her heart swelled as Harry started to deepen the kiss.
Hermione loved the feeling of Harry's warm lips on her. Then something caught her eye- her engagement ring, glistening
under the Great Hall's lighting.

Hermione pulled away quickly. "Harry… Harry I can't," she whispered quietly.

Harry looked crushed. He looked at her with a pained expression. "I've been waiting ten years to do that, Hermione…" He
leaned in to kiss her again. Hermione pulled away.

"Harry, listen to me," she whispered urgently, "I've… I've been waiting for ten years to do that as well. But…" Hermione
was crying now.

Harry looked at her, concerned. He pulled away from her. "Hermione, I'm so sorry! What's wrong? Did I do something
wrong?"

"No," Hermione choked, madly wiping away the tears. She couldn't let anyone see her crying. "You are perfect. You are
wonderful. That's the problem. I'm engaged to Ron."

Harry flinched, and swore under his breath. He took a deep breath. "You're engaged to Ron?"

"That's what I said, wasn't it?" Hermione whispered softly, burying her head in Harry's chest. He put his arms around
her, comforting her.

They sat like that for a few minutes, Hermione crying, and Harry hugging her close. Nothing in the world would break
them apart. Except…

Hermione nudged Harry nervously. "We have to get out of here."

A/N: Okay, so the reunion is continued in the next chapter. I'm getting back on August 12th from vacation so I should be
able to update once more before I leave. Thanks for all your reviews and support! <3

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6. On Fire

Chapter Six: "On Fire"

A/N: Once again, I know this chapter is short. I will be lengthening all my chapters when I get back from my vacation
(August 13th) So please bear with me here. I'm so sorry they are short.

But good news- I'll start putting up my new story/stories, so that's something to look forward to :)

Thanks for all your feedback and reviews. I love you all !!

"Why? Hermione, what's wrong?" Harry asked worriedly. He pulled away from her, looking her in the eye. Had he done
something wrong? What was going on?

Hermione pointed towards Ron who had finished dancing with Luna Lovegood. He was waving to Luna, and telling her that
they'd catch up later.

Harry understood what was going on. Hermione didn't want Ron to find the two of them. He was probably going to come over
to meet up with Hermione.

"We can't let him find us," she urged, "He'll ask me to leave with him."

Harry sighed. "I hate how we're about to go behind Ron's back. Why can't you just tell him, Mione?"

Hermione kissed Harry quickly. "Because I love him as a friend. And I can't hurt him. He's going to be crushed when he
finds out."

Harry gave her a look, hesitating. "Fine, let's go."

The two of them darted out of the Great Hall unnoticed and out into the fresh air. After Harry made sure that they were
far enough from the Great Hall, he whispered, I don't want the night to end."

Hermione turned to Harry. "Harry, please tell me why you didn't contact me…" Hermione begged. Why wasn't he telling her?
What was there to hide?

"I swear, I'll tell you when I'm ready to, Hermione," Harry answered, squirming slightly, "I wanted to contact you, I
really did…"

Hermione was feeling slightly annoyed. Why couldn't Harry just tell her? She should be angry with him. He hadn't even
owled her in the past ten years. Yet, Hermione still loved Harry.

"Just… please tell me soon. I have to know."

"I will, just give it time." Harry kissed Hermione's cheek.

"Harry," she murmured, "I've waited way too long for you."

"I'm sorry I kept you waiting," he whispered just as their lips touched. They kissed and kissed for what felt like
hours. Hermione wanted nothing more than to be right there with Harry. It was the night she had been waiting for since
the night Harry left to fight Voldemort.

"I told you once I loved you," Harry told Hermione softly, "And I still love you up until this day."

"It's been ten years, Harry," Hermione told him, kissing him urgently. There was no denying that she wanted him. No, she
didn't just want him… she needed him. "I love you."

Harry flinched slightly. His face was suddenly very serious. "Hermione, I have to tell you something."

Hermione looked at him, worried. Was he going to tell her why he didn't contact her? Or was it something worse? "What is
it?"

Harry took a deep breath. "Actually, it's two things. I'm not exactly sure how to tell you…"

"Tell me, Harry," Hermione told him, trying to keep a straight face.

"I've been seeing Cho Chang again for about two years…" Harry whispered softly, hanging his head, "And…"

Hermione swallowed, trying not to picture Harry with Cho. "And what, Harry? It can't be worse than going out with Cho,
can it?" Hermione held her breath, waiting for Harry's answer.

Harry refused to meet Hermione's eye. Instead, he looked down at his feet and pretended to be very interested in them.
"She's pregnant. And I think I might be the father."

Hermione felt like crying. In fact, she was certain that any moment she was going to burst out in tears. How could Harry
have waited this long to tell her? He had kissed her and had said that he loved her. Only now he was telling her this
vital piece of information? "What… what do you mean think?"

Harry put his arm on Hermione's shoulder, but Hermione pulled away. Harry looked hurt. "As in, she did have a one night
stand with Roger Davis once when we had a fight."

Hermione looked down. "So are you telling me that you and Cho have been shagging often?"

Harry glared at her, his blood pressure rising. "It's not as if you and Ron don't shag."

"Leave Ron out of it," Hermione exclaimed angrily. There was no need to pull him into this.

"Leave my personal life with Cho out of it," Harry shot back. The two of them were breathing heavily.

They glared at each other for a moment before they lost each other in another passionate kiss.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*-
--*---*---*

"Night," Hermione whispered as her and Harry reached Hermione's apartment. Harry nodded, and kissed her softly.

"I'll call you tomorrow, okay?" Harry whispered softly. "Will you dream of me tonight?"

"Always," Hermione replied, kissing him again. "I promise."

Regretfully, Harry kissed her once more before disappearing into the darkness.

Hermione stood by the doorstep, convincing herself that the night had really happened. It was too good to be true.

There was just one thing wrong- Ron and Cho. What was Harry going to do about Cho? If the child was Harry's, then Harry
was kind of obligated to marry her. He couldn't leave Cho to raise the child all by herself. That would just be cruel.
Hermione couldn't bear to think about Cho as Harry's wife.

And Ron. Ron was a big problem as well. Hermione was engaged to him. Engagement meant commitment. Hermione was committed
to Ron. It would break Ron's heart if she broke off their engagement. But how could she get married to someone that she
didn't love?

Hermione flopped onto her bed. She was about to daydream about Harry a bit more when the phone rang. Irritated, Hermione
snatched it from her nightstand.

"What?" she snapped. How dare someone ruin her daydream about Harry?

"Oh Hermione, thank God you're okay!"

It was Ron. Hermione cringed, feeling a pang of guilt. She had just taken off from the reunion without even telling him
that she was leaving. Hermione was just so worried about Ron seeing her with Harry at the reunion that she hadn't even
bothered to call and tell Ron she was okay. He must have been worried sick.

"Ron!" Hermione exclaimed, "I'm so sorry I left without notice. I'm doing fine."

"But I don't understand… why did you just take off like that, Mione?" Ron asked. It was obvious that he was suspicious
and slightly confused by Hermione's behavior. Hermione wasn't the type of person to just take off like that.

"I just had a horrible headache. I haven't been feeling good for a few weeks," Hermione lied. She hated lying to her
fiancée, but there was no way she could tell Ron that the reason she had left was because she wanted to make out with
Harry where he couldn't see them.

"Yeah I guess," Ron replied flatly. Hermione had a feeling he didn't exactly believe the story, but didn't want to start
an argument. Hermione smirked. If it was Harry on the other line, he would have just told Hermione that he didn't
believe what she had said. Hermione shook her head. It wasn't right to compare Ron to Harry… she knew Harry would always
win.

"Anyhow," Hermione continued, "I saw you dancing with Luna, so I figured it would be okay if I left." Hermione smiled
slightly to herself. Now it looked as though it was Ron's fault she left instead of her own.

"Luna asked me to dance," Ron replied defensively, "It's not like I wanted to. We're just friends."

Hermione scoffed. "Luna has been after you ever since fifth year, Ron. It was pretty obvious to everyone. I can't
believe you're so blind and naïve."

Ron paused. Then he asked softly, "Hermione, is this working out?"

Part of Hermione wanted to yell 'No,' for that was the truth. But she knew that she couldn't. There was not much hope
with Harry. He was going to be a father after all, right?
Maybe . "It's going to work out. I promise."

A/N: So that's all for this chapter. It'll be longer once I lengthen it. I just didn't want to keep you guys waiting so
I updated. My new story will be updated shortly, so pleaseplease read it! Thankss.

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7. 4ever

Chapter Seven: "4ever"

A/N: Well, another chapter is up! There's some H/Hr in this and some Harry, Hermione, and Ron drama as Hermione tries to
juggle all the guys.

Hermione sighed, staring at her cell phone that hadn't rung all day. Harry had promised to call in the morning, but it
was already noon. Surely Harry knew that morning meant before twelve. Fighting Voldemort couldn't have messed him up too
much. Hermione wasn't even aware that fighting Voldemort had damaged his brain in any way. He seemed like he had made a
perfect recovery.

Hermione checked her watch. It was 12:13. She was expecting Ron over for lunch at 12:30, but Ron was almost always late.
For once, Hermione was actually hoping that Ron was running late. This meant that she could finish off her call with
Harry before he came… hopefully.

"I hope Ron doesn't show up before Harry calls," Hermione muttered, "Then again, Ron is never early."

Just as Hermione spoke those words, the doorbell rang. Hermione groaned. Part of her felt as though she had just jinxed
it. Ron was early. The one time Ron chose to be early was the time Hermione wanted him to be late. Regretfully, Hermione
headed over towards the door. To her surprise, Harry was at the door, not Ron.

"Surprise," Harry whispered into Hermione's ear. Hermione gaped. Harry couldn't be here! Ron was going to be here and
minute.

"Harry," she hissed, "What are you doing here? I'm expecting Ron over any-"

Harry cut Hermione off, crushing his lips into hers. For a few moments, Hermione forgot all about her engagement to Ron,
and the fact that Ron was coming over in a few seconds. All she could think about was how much she had missed Harry. In
fact, she almost forgave Harry for not calling.

Regretfully, Hermione pulled away from Harry. "Harry, Ron's coming over. You should have called before."

Harry looked at her guiltily. "Yeah, I probably should have. You were probably sitting by your phone waiting for me to
call, weren't you?"

Hermione gave Harry a half smile. "You know me well, don't you? You know me better than anyone else, that's for sure."

"I know how to make it up to you." Harry wrapped his arms around Hermione and kissed her tenderly.

Hermione broke apart from Harry. "Apology accepted." She leaned in and kissed Harry again. Harry's kisses got so intense
that Hermione almost didn't hear the doorbell ring.

Panicked, Hermione broke apart from Harry. "Coming," she called to the door, "I've just got to get changed, Ron. And
please, no perverted jokes."

Hermione heard Ron laugh. "How did you know I planning on telling you my perverted joke?"

Hermione turned to Harry. "You've got to hide in the closet," she whispered under her breath. Harry made a face.

"Harry," Hermione hissed. She pushed Harry into the bedroom closet. "Stay in there, okay?"

Harry nodded, and then Hermione headed towards the door. She put on her best fake smile, and then opened it.

Ron was definitely not dressed casual. He was dressed in the same suit he wore on the day of the reunion. Hermione
realized that the suit he was wearing was probably the only suit he owned.

"Ron," Hermione asked cautiously, "Why are you wearing a suit?"

Ron pretended not to here what Hermione had just said. He gave her a small smirk. "What? No hello kiss?"

Hermione placed a small kiss on Ron's lips, hoping to discourage Ron from going any further than that. Ron however
didn't seem to get Hermione's message.

"Come on," Ron coaxed, "You are capable of much more than that."

Ron and Hermione walked into the bedroom and kissed for a few more minutes. Hermione had her eye on the closet. She
could see an eye peeking out, and although she couldn't see Harry's face, she knew that he was probably disgusted.
Hermione sighed. Throughout Hogwarts she couldn't get a single guy, but now she had two? Maybe it had something to do
with karma.

Ron broke the kiss, moving back slowly. "Hermione, I'll be back. I just need to use the restroom."

Hermione hoped that she didn't look as relieved as she felt. She nodded slowly. "Yeah, sure, Ron. We'll eat right after,
okay?"

Ron nodded, and walked off. Hermione watched him as he turned right and closed the door to the bathroom. As soon as she
was sure that Ron was locked in the bathroom, she ran as quietly as possible over towards the closet.

"Harry," she whispered, glancing behind her. All she could do was pray that Ron wasn't coming out of the bathroom that
second.

Harry didn't respond. He looked at her glumly. "How much longer do I have to stay in the closet?" he finally said dully.

Hermione was confused. Why on earth was Harry suddenly so moody? Then it struck her- he was jealous. Now that Hermione
had figured out the reason, it was quite clear to her. Harry had just spent the last half hour or so watching the girl
he supposedly loved make out with another guy.

Hermione stuck her head inside of the closet and tried to kiss Harry. Instead, her lips landed on his nose. Embarrassed,
she pulled away. "Sorry… about everything, Harry."

Harry sighed. "I know you can't help it. I can't help but wonder, Hermione, when are you planning on telling Ron that
the engagement is off? To me, it kind of looks like you're leading him on instead of brushing him off."

Hermione swallowed, feeling extremely uncomfortable. Not only was it uncomfortable to talk to a person who was inside of
a dark closet with the paranoia of knowing Ron was going to return any second, but it was an uncomfortable topic.
Truthfully, Hermione had no idea what she was going to do. The thought of breaking Ron's heart just tore her heart in
half. However, pretending to love Ron as more than a friend was just as bad. When he eventually found out, that would
hurt the most.

"Soon," Hermione lied, "I'll take care of it, Harry. I promise."

Hermione heard a door open. She quickly shoved Harry's head into the closet and closed the door. Hermione turned around
just as Ron entered the room.

"What were you doing in the closet?" Ron asked, checking the clock to see if it was time to serve the food yet.

Hermione stammered. "Checking… to see if I had to do laundry. I haven't in a while." Ron looked as though he was about
to ask another question, so Hermione asked, "Are you hungry yet?"

Ron's questioning look turned to a happy one. He laughed. "Hermione, you know that I'm always hungry. Any time is good
for food in my case. What have you made us today?"

Hermione wasn't exactly the greatest cook, but she was improving with time. As a way to practice her cooking skills, Ron
agreed to come over every Sunday for lunch. Hermione had to admit that the lunches were really helping her skills.

"I made salad, pasta, and garlic bread," Hermione responded. She headed into the kitchen to check on the food. The
garlic bread smelled delicious. Hermione had left them in the oven so that they wouldn't get cold. The salad was already
on the table, and the pasta was on the counter.

"Take a seat, Ron," Hermione told him, "I'll get the food."

He grinned. "Hermione, you are the greatest. You know that, right? There's not another girl I'd rather be with right at
the moment."

But there's another guy I'd rather be with at the moment, Hermione thought silently.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

"The food," Ron grinned, wiping his mouth with a napkin, "was delicious. You've really outdone yourself this time,
Granger."

Hermione blushed. "Honestly, Ron… it wasn't that good. I enjoy cooking for you. I get to spend some time with you, and I
get to work on my cooking. It's a win-win situation."

Ron kissed Hermione zealously, wrapping his arms around her. Hermione smiled slightly, kissing him back.

A few moments later, Hermione pulled away from Ron. "Ron, now tell me why you're wearing a suit. I'm pretty sure that
lunch over at my apartment is pretty casual."

Ron sighed, looking nervous and uncomfortable. It was obvious that he had worn it for some special occasion. There was
something on Ron's mind that he wasn't telling Hermione. "I was um hoping that we could go dancing after we ate lunch
here. I don't know… we never seem to do anything fun anymore."

Hermione was definitely in no mood to go dancing. In fact, she wasn't even in the mood to entertain Ron. She was just
trying to get the lunch over with as fast as possible. "No, Ron… can't we take a rain check? I don't really feel that
good, and I definitely don't have anything to wear. Most of my stuff is in the wash."

To Hermione's horror, Ron trudged past her and headed straight for the closet. "I'm sure you have something to wear,
Mione. Let me take a look."

Hermione's mind whirled. What could she do? How could she prevent Ron from looking in the closet? She watched hopelessly
as Ron got closer and closer to the closet.

A/N: So what's going to happen now? Maybe Hermione won't even have to tell Ron about the engagement is off. Maybe Ron
will just break it off himself.

My new story: "Loving You Is My Deepest Secret" has just recently been uploaded onto portkey. I'd love it if you guys
could read and review that story as well!

More reviews = faster update.

Thanks. <3

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8. Smile Like You Mean It

Chapter Eight: "Smile Like You Mean It"

A/N: gasppp you have no idea how much I love you guys !! thanks so much for all the reviews. You guys make me feel as if
my writing actually means something. :) seriously, thanks so freaking much.

But I barely have any reviews on my other story ): could you guys please make me smile by reviewing my other story as
well? I swear it's also good !! It's called "Loving You is My Deepest Secret."

Okay, so read this and then review this chapter… then go review my other story.

I LOVE YOU ALLLLLL <3

"Wait Ron, don't!" Hermione yelled, running after him. Her mind had finally started working again. She had to think of
something quickly.

Ron froze, one hand on the closet, and turned around. "Everything alright, Mione? You look like you've seen a ghost."

Hermione walked over towards Ron and kissed him. Her mind was spinning. The only distraction she could think of was
kissing him. She had to give time for Harry to apparate out of the closet. Surely he was smart enough to do that.

Ron forgot all about the closet. Glad that Hermione was showing some sign of affection, Ron decided to leap at the
chance. He wrapped his arms around her neck and kissed her keenly, praying that she wouldn't resist. Hermione knew it
was wise not to stop so soon.

"Hermione," Ron breathed in between kisses, "I…love…you."

Hermione didn't answer. She just pressed her lips on Ron's, and prayed that her kiss was a good enough answer. A few
minutes later, she broke away from Ron, using all her might to stop herself from looking at the closet.

"Ron," Hermione tried to sound sorry, "I have some errands to do. I'm sorry. I'll call you tomorrow, okay?"

Ron's face fell. He looked away from her, undoubtedly disappointed. "What about the dancing, Hermione? Come on, you
don't want to do anything with me anymore. Please?"

Hermione gave Ron a quick kiss on the cheek, feeling very panicked. Her heart was racing as she thought about how close
of a call that had been "Another day, okay? I swear we'll go dancing sometime soon. I have a bunch to do before work
tomorrow. Work has been so stressful lately, Ron."

Ron sighed. He was trying very hard to keep his cool. There was no need to get into another fight with Hermione, but he
couldn't help but wonder if work was always going to be more important than him. "I guess I'll find my own way out."

Hermione smiled slightly, her fingers crossed behind her. Her heart rate was slowly returning to normal. "I'm pretty
sure you know the way, Ron."

Hermione watched a disappointed Ron leave her apartment. The second he shut the door, Hermione went over towards the
front door and locked it. At that moment, there was a bang. Hermione turned around to see Harry emerged from the closet,
a sock dangling from his head. Hermione couldn't help but giggle at the sight. Harry didn't seen very amused.

Harry obviously wasn't in a very good mood. He just tossed the sock off his head and stared at Hermione crossly.

Hermione looked at Harry, concerned. She hated seeing him so upset, but she had to admit that she missed his "mad" face.
She hadn't seen it in ten years. "Harry, what's wrong?"

Harry looked at her, and told her softly, "You aren't going to break off the engagement. That's what's wrong."

Hermione stared at Harry, not saying anything. Was it true? Was she really not going to break off her engagement with
Ron?

Well, there was the Cho thing. It wasn't as if she was the bad person in the situation. After all, she and Harry might
not even be able to be together. If so, was there really any point in breaking off the engagement? Having Ron was better
than having nobody. She had already lost Harry once, and she wasn't ready to lose her other best friend.

Harry gave her a small, helpless smile. He cleared his throat, and looked up at her. "Listen, I shouldn't have even
brought this up. It's obvious that you need some time. I'll… uh be in touch."

Hermione watched helplessly as Harry headed towards the door. It hurt to know that she was the reason Harry was leaving,
and that nothing she said would make him stay. He knew her too well. He knew that Hermione didn't want to break Ron's
heart. Harry knew Hermione was too kind to do it.

"Harry," Hermione called, just as Harry was about to close the door behind him.

He stopped and turned around. "Yeah, Hermione?" he asked softly, looking up at her.

She went up to him and gave him a peck. Then she looked away from him. "Give it time, okay? I'll figure it out."

He gave her a half smile. "You promise, Hermione?"

She smiled, remembering how ten years ago she had promised to always think of Harry. She had kept that promise, hadn't
she? There was no reason she couldn't keep this one as well. "I promise."

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Ginny knocked on the door of the Burrow. It had been so long since she had been inside of it. Her mother insisted on
having family dinners at least once a month, but everyone was busy. Usually, they ended up getting together twice a
year. Ginny was swarmed with work at the Daily Prophet, and usually had to work very late hours. This was the only time
Ginny had to catch up with her family.

The door finally opened after Ginny rang the doorbell for the third time. Ginny's father, Mr. Weasley, opened the door.
He was panting hard, and it seemed as though he had run all the way to the front door.

Ginny studied her father, and realized that he was definitely aging. He wasn't the same enthusiastic person he once was.
There were wrinkles on his face, and his hair was now gray. However, he still had the same loving smile on his face that
he had when Ginny was in Hogwarts.

"Ginny dear," he greeted her, "So nice to see you again! Molly is running a little late on dinner. Fred, Angelina,
George, Alicia, Ron, Hermione, and Harry are waiting for you in the living room."

Ginny knew what her mother was up to right away. She spotted her mother in the kitchen, and gave her a disgusted look.
"Mum, I told you to stop trying to set me up with Harry! I'm not interested in him. There are plenty of guys in this
world. Why do you have to keep pushing me with him? We are way over. I haven't talked to him since I graduated from
Hogwarts."

Mrs. Weasley sighed, looking upset that her daughter wasn't interested in Harry. "Ginevra, please. You haven't seen a
single man since you and Harry broke up. I'm sure he's still interested in you. If the two of you could just sit down
and talk for a few minutes, I'm sure-"

Ginny had heard enough. She pushed passed her mother and headed towards the living room. To her dismay, the only seat
left in the living room was the one on the couch beside Harry. As Ginny took her seat, she saw Ron give her an obvious
wink. All Ginny could do was sigh loudly.

Harry gave Ginny an apologetic look. "Sorry Gin," he whispered to her, "Mrs. Weasley forced me to come to dinner, and
since I haven't seen anyone for ten years I kind of had to accept."

Ginny gave Harry a warm hug. "I've missed you so much, Harry," she murmured softly, "It's great to see you again."

Harry smiled at Ginny. Hermione coughed very loudly, and it was obvious to Ginny that it was a fake one. Did it bother
Hermione to see Harry talking to Ginny, even though Harry had no interest in Ginny? And why wasn't Hermione excited to
see Harry? Was it possible that they had seen each other recently?

Ginny shook thoughts of Hermione and Harry away. She turned to Ron and noticed that he was glaring at Harry. Now Ginny
was totally confused. Harry and Ron had definitely not seen each other… or at least, that was what Ron had said. Was it
possible that the three of them had met? Or was Ron just angry with Harry because he thought that Harry was going to
steal Hermione away?

Ginny knew one thing for sure: there were way too many questions. If she didn't answer them soon, she'd go mad with
curiosity. Then again, she didn't exactly tell her family everything. For instance, she hadn't told them that she had
recently started dating someone. That was only because they wouldn't approve, though. It was to protect them from having
their heart broken, not because she was ashamed of telling them. Although, Ginny admitted to herself, she was slightly
afraid to tell them…

"So Harry," Fred exclaimed, apparently excited that Harry was back, "How was defeating Him?"

Harry shrugged. Ginny realized that he didn't exactly want to talk about Voldemort. He probably just wanted to forget
about it.

"So Fred," Ginny interrupted, trying to change the subject, "How's the joke shop coming along?"

That question seemed to do the trick. Fred and George yammered on and on about the sales, and how they were making more
money than Ron and Ginny put together out of the joke shop.

Harry gave Ginny a grateful look, and she whispered, "No problem."

A few minutes later, Mrs. Weasley came in announcing the start of dinner. Everyone got up and went into the dining room
to enjoy the meal.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

"Dinner was excellent, Mrs. Weasley," Hermione told Mrs. Weasley politely, "Thanks so much for the invite."

Mrs. Weasley beamed. "It was the least I could do for my new daughter-in-law."

The news took Hermione aback. Of course, she realized, of course Ron would have told his family about the engagement.
Being engaged to someone was pretty big news. Hermione hadn't realized how serious the engagement was. Breaking off the
engagement would mean not only hurting Ron, but also his entire family.

"Bye Mrs. Weasley," Harry told Mrs. Weasley, refusing to look at her. Harry looked at Hermione, and Hermione could tell
that he was trying to say 'Call you soon.' She nodded, and he headed out of the door.

"Night Ron," Hermione said softly, giving him a quick peck. However, Ron looked as though he was about to explode.

"When and where did you see Harry?" Ron demanded, his nostrils flaring. He looked like he was about to burst from anger.
"Don't lie to me, Hermione. I know you've seen him recently."

A/N: Don't call me evil, because I already know it. :)
Sorry about another cliffhanger, but…
its to get you guys to review !!
More reviews = faster update.
It always works the same way.

<3

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9. Only One

Chapter Nine: "Only One"

A/N: Wow, sorry it took so freaking long to update again. I have so much work at school… it's unbelievable. -____- I
hardly have any time to write now. :(
But don't worry… I WILL NEVER ABANDON YOU GUYS xP

So… here's chapter nine. There's some D/G stuff so :) for that. And there's also some blehhhh Harry/Cho parts. Hope you
guys like this chapter =) Don't forget to review.

Hermione gasped. How could have Ron found out? She was pretty sure that Harry hadn't told him. Harry wouldn't tell Ron.
He and Ron weren't even really speaking all throughout dinner. There was only one thing to do… lie.

"What are you talking about Ron?" Hermione asked, pretending to sound confused. "I honestly haven't seen him since…
graduation day."

Ron laughed, not convinced. "Hermione, you think you can hide everything from me. I know you, Hermione. You would have
been jumping for joy if you had seen Harry for the first time in 10 years. You seemed to be almost ignoring him tonight.
I know something's up."

Hermione had no idea what to do. She glanced down at her fingers and inspected them as if they were the most interesting
fingers she had ever seen. She had to come up with some story. Hermione thought hard, her brain in overdrive.

"Well?" Ron prompted. He clearly looked upset.

Hermione sighed. There was no bother in telling Ron that she just wasn't excited to see Harry. Hermione suspected that
Ron knew more than he was going at. Had he seen them at the reunion? Had he seen Harry in the closet that day he came
over? Or worse, had he seen them kiss on graduation day?

"I… saw him at the reunion," Hermione sighed, "I wanted to talk to him, but he ignored me. There, happy? That's why I
wasn't thrilled to see him." Hermione bit her lip, hoping Ron would buy her farfetched story.

Ron, thankfully, was ready to believe anything Hermione told him. Hermione knew he didn't want to believe that Hermione
had seen Harry more than once before. Ron didn't want anything to come between their relationship.

Ron sighed, looking down. For a few minutes, they stood there in uncomfortable silence. Finally Ron looked back up at
Hermione, his eyes full of disappointment and nervousness. "Is this true, Hermione?" he asked softly, "Are you telling
me the truth?"

Hermione swallowed. She hated lying to Ron, but this was to protect not only herself but Harry as well. Nervously,
Hermione brushed her brown hair behind her ears. Giving Ron a truthful look, she whispered, "Yes, Ron. I'm telling the
truth. I wouldn't lie to you."

Ron looked up outside. The full moon was out, and all was dark. There wasn't a person in sight except for the two of
them right outside the Burrow. All of the lights were out in the Burrow. Ron's parents had probably gone to bed assuming
that everyone had left. "I hope you're right, Hermione."

Hermione looked at Ron. They stared at each other for a moment. Then Hermione asked softly, "You do believe me, don't
you?"

Ron blinked and lowered his glance. "I wish I could believe you."

Hermione didn't answer. Some part of her, deep down inside, wanted her to tell the truth. She knew that the Hermione of
five years ago would have told Ron the truth. The Hermione of five years ago was in love with Ron. But now who was she?
Hermione knew she wasn't the same person.

Ron just shook his head and turned around. Hermione watching him go, leaning on the wall. She didn't even have the
strength to go after him, to tell him it was going to be okay. Because at the bottom of her heart, Hermione knew that it
wasn't going to be okay. The worst part was that Hermione knew that Ron knew it as well.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

"Hey Red," a voice called from behind Ginny, "That family dinner took way too long."

Ginny smiled slightly. She had found just the person she was looking for. Silently hoping that she looked decent after
the dinner, Ginny turned around to find herself swept of the ground.

"Draco," Ginny shrieked, punching his shoulder playfully, "Put me down!"

Draco twirled around holding Ginny over his shoulder. Finally, after Ginny continued to shriek for a few more minutes,
he put her down. "If you ever forget your wand during an attack," Draco joked, "Just shriek. It'll scare all of your
enemies away."

"Then again," Ginny grinned, "I'll have you to protect me. I won't even need my voice."

Draco kissed Ginny. "The reunion was the best night of my life, Red. I don't think we would have ever run into each
other if it wasn't for that."

Ginny looked away, remembering that night. Now after Ginny had Draco, she wondered how she managed without him…

"Would you like to dance, Red?"

Ginny turned around. It was the night of the Hogwarts Reunion. Once again, Ginny was attending another party as a loner.
Once again, as everyone danced, she sat by the food and ate away the night. There was nothing more she could do.

"Draco," Ginny muttered, looking surprised. "Nice to see you again?" She hadn't seen Draco since graduation. He had
changed a lot. He was taller, obviously, and had bulked up quite a bit. He was actually very good-looking, Ginny mused.

Draco pointed towards the dance floor as a slow dance song started up. He was smiling slightly. "We're going to miss the
song if you don't come. That is, if you want to dance."

Ginny blinked and then smiled softly. "Yes, I'd love a dance."

Draco pulled Ginny close towards his body. For a few minutes, neither one of them said a word. Ginny could feel his
breath on her, and his arms around her waist. It had been such a long time since she had danced with anyone. It had been
so long that Ginny couldn't even remember the last time she had danced.

"So, um," Ginny said softly to Draco, "This was unexpected." Ginny was hoping to make some sense of what Draco's
intentions were. Draco of all people would never be caught dead dancing with a Gryffindor, but here he was now, dancing
with Ginny Weasley.

Draco shrugged, refusing to meet Ginny's eye. "You look beautiful, Ginny."

Ginny flushed, her insides fluttering. "You look great as well, but Draco, are you forgetting that I'm a Gryffindor? I
mean, technically I'm not since I'm not in school anymore, but inside, I'm still a Gryffindor. And you're a Slytherin.
Do you understand why I'm not understanding what's going on?"

The song ended, and another one started. Ginny was about to go sit down, but Draco continued to dance. Ginny smiled
slightly, remembering how much she liked Draco during their seventh year. There was something about his dangerous ways
that was attractive. Not to mention his looks.

"It's just a dance, Red," Draco told her quietly, "Or in this case, two dances."

Ginny knew that she shouldn't say anything else. So the two of them just dancing the night away in silence. Without a
single break, Ginny and Draco danced until the entire Great Hall was practically empty.

Ginny pulled away from Draco, and the two of them just stared at each other. Ginny wasn't sure whether she had no idea
what to say, or if she was just tongue-tied. Finally, she whispered, "Thanks."

Draco looked around. "Who are you here with? I think the reunion's over. You should probably be getting back. Are you
here with Potter?"

Ginny shook her head quickly. She didn't want Draco thinking that she liked Harry anymore, because she didn't. "I
haven't seen or heard from him since graduation. I'm… I'm not here with anyone."

"Oh."

The staring started up again. Ginny had to admit to herself that she was curious who Draco was here with. "So, I guess
you should be going. Who did you say you were here with, again?"

"I never told you whom I was here with," Draco answered, looking at her. "But if you must know, I'm not here with
anyone."

Ginny's jaw dropped. She had assumed that he was there with Pansy Parkinson. They had been going out for such a long
time. "What happened to Pansy?"

Draco looked disgusted. "She ran off with Goyle a year after graduation. I was kind of glad. That was an easy way to get
rid of her."

Ginny smiled at Draco, relieved. Before she knew it, her lips were on Draco's. At that moment, Ginny knew she had found
the guy she was looking for.

"Red!" Draco whispered, waving his hand in front of Ginny's eyes.

Ginny blinked, and her flashback disappeared. "Huh? How long did I blank out?"

Draco sat down next to her on the bench. He had an amused expression on his face. "Quite a few minutes. What were you
thinking about?"

Ginny shook her head, her cheeks flushing. "Nothing… nothing. I was thinking about nothing. Just-"

Draco kissed Ginny in attempt to silence her. Ginny wrapped her arms around Draco's neck, kissing him tenderly. Was Ron
crazy thinking that Harry was the guy for her? Harry had never made Ginny feel half as good as Draco did.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Harry sat on his book, his Quidditch book open in front of him. He was hoping to pick up some good plays for his team.
However, his mind was wandering. He wasn't able to focus on anything recently. All he could think about was Hermione.

He hadn't even spoken to her in a week or two. The last time he saw her was at the Weasley dinner, and he was too busy
avoiding Mrs. Weasley's approving glances of him and Ginny. Anyhow, Harry had a feeling Ginny was going out with someone
else. She wouldn't stay single for such a long time.

Did Hermione think that he was mad at her? And why hadn't Hermione called him? Harry sighed. He wasn't even sure if
their relationship was going to work out. He had Cho, and Hermione had Ron. They both already had people for themselves.
Do they really want to hurt so many people just to be together?

Harry's phone rang breaking his trail of thoughts. He put his Quidditch book down and headed over towards the phone. He
snatched it on its fourth ring. "Hello?" he asked hastily into the phone. Part of him was hoping it was Hermione.

"Harry, it's Cho," Cho said urgently, "I have some… well interesting news for you."

Harry felt his pulse race. "What is it, Cho?"

Harry heard Cho swallow. Harry took the cordless phone with him and sat down at his desk. He hadn't been this nervous in
a long time. Was Cho in the delivery room? Was Cho hurt? What had happened?

"Well," Cho continued, "I went to get a DNA testing of the baby to figure out who the father is."

"Who is it?" Harry stood up, still holding the phone, and listened closely for Cho's response.

A/N: aghhh sorry about the cliffhanger, but I had to leave you guys hanging. =)
<3 you allll
please review.

--H/Hr Love

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10. Just The Beginning

Chapter Ten: "Just The Beginning"

A/N: Here it is… the long awaited chapter ten of I Promise! First I want to say thanks to all of you that review =) They
really make my day. I love reading each and every one of your reviews. They mean a lot to me, so I just wanted to say
thanks.

Secondly, if you guys have time, do you think you could read my other two stories? They haven't been doing so well, and
honestly, what's the point of writing if you don't get feedback?

Another story is coming soon… not sure exactly when, but it'll be coming soon so make sure all of you read that.

Thanks again and I hope you enjoy the story.

"Harry!" Cho exclaimed excitedly, "It's you! Oh Harry… we're going to have a baby. And it's a girl!"

Harry felt a weird sensation… it was almost like dread. He was relieved, of course, that the child was his and not Roger
Davis', but he still didn't like the feeling of having a child with anyone other than Hermione.

Harry forced his voice to be cheerful. "Well then, congratulations, Cho! You're going to be a mom."

Cho laughed. Harry could tell that she was thrilled. "Well you're going to be a dad, Harry," she answered, "I can't
believe we're going to have a girl! Can we please name her Capella, Harry? Please?"

Harry smiled slightly. It was nice to see Cho so excited about something. All she seemed to do recently was sleep and
eat. "Anything you want, Cho," Harry promised, "If you want…" Harry took a deep breath. "If you want our little girl to
be named Capella, her name will be Capella."

Harry could swear that Cho was smiling. She sounded sincerely happy, and Harry was glad.

"Harry, I have to go," she whispered, "I'm getting a little tired. I just want to tell you how happy I am. I really
think this is going to work out."

Harry didn't answer. He remembered promising Hermione that everything was going to be okay and that everything was going
to work out. Now he wasn't so sure of that promise. He wasn't sure of anything. "I think so too, Cho. Sweet dreams."

"I love you, Harry," Cho muttered, yawning.

Harry held the phone tightly, squeezing it. How was he going to break the news to Hermione? "I love you, too, Her-"
Harry coughed loudly. He paused for a moment, and realized that Cho hadn't caught that. He sighed in relief. Cho didn't
know he was about to call her Hermione. "I love you, too, Cho."

"'Night," Cho murmured.

A second later, there was a click on the line. Harry dropped the phone and laid down on his bed. Things were getting
more complicated by the second. Cho would expect Harry to get married to her since they were having a daughter. Hermione
was engaged to Ron. Was their relationship doomed?

Harry closed his eyes, wanting everything to go away. His life was so messed up. If only he hadn't listened to Ron that
time Ron had told him to stay away from Hermione. If he had just gone to Hermione that night after defeating Voldemort
and had fallen in her arms, things would be very different. Harry had a feeling that this was just the beginning of the
problems he and Hermione would have to face.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Hermione picked up her phone and dialed Harry's number. It had been a week since he had last called, and Hermione was
wondering what had happened to him. The phone rang over and over again until finally Harry picked up on the seventh
ring.

"Hey Hermione," he said nervously. Hermione could detect from his tone that he was hiding something.

"Hey," Hermione answered back, slightly weirded out by the situation. Why Harry suddenly acting as if he had something
to hide?

"We haven't talked in a while," Harry said distractedly. He sounded distant, and either he wasn't in the mood to talk or
had something else on his mind.

"Yeah," Hermione agreed, "But then again, Ron never leaves me alone. I think he suspects something."

There was a long pause on the line. Hermione could tell that Harry wasn't really paying attention to what she was
saying.

"Oh," Harry answered vaguely.

Hermione was beginning to get irritated. If Harry wasn't in the mood to talk to her, he could just say so. "Is this a
bad time, Harry? Because I could always call back later…"

Harry sighed. "Look, Hermione we have to talk."

Hermione straightened up on her bed. Maybe Harry had finally decided to break up with Cho. Maybe they could finally have
a real relationship now. Hermione smiled just thinking about it. "I agree."

Harry paused. "I think we should stop seeing each other."

Hermione froze. She felt dizzy, and gripped the phone hard just to make sure it didn't fall. Why was Harry doing this?

Hermione took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. There was no point in getting worked up over this. Maybe there
was a logical explanation for this. Maybe Harry was just being temporarily delusional. "Are you saying this because you
have to, or are you saying this because it's what you want?" Hermione asked softly. She bit her lip, hoping she wouldn't
burst out in tears.

Harry didn't answer. Hermione felt her spirits go up a bit. Harry didn't want to give up on their relationship!
Something weird had probably just happened. Harry was probably overreacting about something.

"It's… it's for the best, Hermione," Harry answered finally. "And I want the best for both of us."

Hermione sighed, looking down. She put her wet cheek to her pillow and realized that she was crying. Tears were
streaming down her face, and Hermione couldn't even answer Harry. She didn't want Harry to know that she was crying over
him.

"I'm sorry, Hermione," Harry whispered, "I'll see you sometime. Maybe."

Hermione nodded even though Harry couldn't see her nod. She was crying too hard to answer. Instead, Hermione just hung
up the phone and cried until there were no more tears.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Ron knocked on Hermione's door again, but no answer came. He sighed with frustration, and banged a little louder. Ron
looked through the window and saw light in the main room. He made a confused look and then knocked again. Ron pressed
his ear against the door and heard sniffling.

"Hermione, open the door!" Ron hollered, banging on the door again. When nobody came to the door, he turned the knob of
the door and surprisingly, realized it was unlocked. Ron walked slowly and cautiously into Hermione's flat. He heard
more sniffling, and followed the sound of Hermione's sobs.

Ron entered Hermione's bedroom and saw her sobbing on the bed. Ron sat down next to her and tilted her face up. Her eyes
were bloodshot and her hair was a frizzy mess. She bit her lip and wiped away her tears.

"I'm sorry," she apologized, wiping her eyes furiously. Ron shook his head and took a seat on her bed.

"So what happened?" Ron asked curiously. He had a feeling her crying had something to do with Harry.

Hermione shrugged, and waved him off. "I was just watching a sad movie and you know how emotional I get."

"Oh." Ron knew that Hermione was lying. What kind of excuse was that? Once again, Hermione was hiding her life from Ron.
"What movie was it?"

Hermione shrugged, her eyes shifting. "The uh Notebook. Yeah, it's really sad. The two people die at the end."

"I wanted to see that," Ron lied, "Where is it? Do you think I can borrow it?"

Hermione shook her head. "No… I returned it, Ronald."

Ron decided not to press the argument farther. He shrugged put his arm around Hermione's neck. He felt her flinch
slightly, so he pulled away his arm. Sighing, Ron stood up.

"Where are you going?" Hermione asked softly.

"I just remembered something I have to do. I'll see you later, okay?" Ron asked her. Hermione shrugged, and Ron
disapparated.

Hermione watched Ron vanish and then put her head back in her arms. She let the tears fall, knowing that nothing anyone
said would make her feel better. Except for Harry Potter.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Ginny dialed Draco's number for the hundredth time. Once again, nobody picked up. The phone rang until the answering
machine came on. Ginny slammed the phone angrily. When Draco and Ginny had last parted, Draco had said, "I'll call you
later." What was later? When was later?

Ginny crossed her arms. Suddenly, she shot up off the bed and ran out the door. Ginny snapped her fingers and apparated
in front of Draco's apartment.

Ginny bit her lip nervously. Was it okay for her to come over to her maybe boyfriend's house? Or was that pushing it a
little too far? Ginny shivered from the cold, and wrapped her arms around her body.

The light was on in Draco's apartment, and there was some movement. He was definitely home. Then why wasn't he picking
up the phone? Ginny had to find out. Taking a deep breath, Ginny rang Draco's doorbell. Nobody came to the door.
Frustrated, Ginny rang the doorbell over and over again.

Finally, Ginny heard footsteps and then she heard Draco swear loudly. A few moments later, the door swung open. Draco
stood there, looking surprised. His hair was a mess, and he looked guilty of something.

"Draco?" Ginny asked, looking confused. What had gotten into Draco? Why was he looking so weird?

"Ginny, this isn't a good time. I'm kind of uh busy…" Draco mumbled, not looking into her eyes.

Ginny pushed past Draco to see a skinny blonde girl sitting on the couch. The girl's eyes were wide and playful as she
stared back at Draco.

A/N: -sighs- I know you are all probably very angry with me for making the baby Harry's =( But you have to understand,
it was the right thing to do. Hopefully, you'll still review. I love all of you, and don't worry; all the events are for
the best.

So yup, looks like Draco was cheating on Ginny… how's all that going to turn out?
And Hermione and Harry called it quits. Let's see how that affects everyone.
THANKS FOR REVIEWING (IN ADVANCE) (:

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11. Wonder Of It All

Chapter Eleven: "Wonder Of It All"

A/N: Okay, you guys were clearly NOT HAPPY with the last chapter. I know you guys are angry and very upset, put please,
no violence =)
It doesn't exactly get better this chapter, but I swear that by next chapter, things will start to get brighter !!
Seriously… Harry, Hermione, Ginny, and Draco are all grieving at this point. They all know who they belong with.

So Ron does something very Ron-ish this chapter that we all will hate :D

Okay, I don't want to spoil everything so go and get reading.

"Oh Draco," the girl said playfully, "Trying to make me jealous with all of these girls? I know I'm the one you want."

Ginny's eyes widened slightly. She looked at Draco, who was hanging his head in shame.

"Listen, Ginny…" Draco pulled Ginny back towards the doorway, "Tiana came over unexpectedly, and well…"

Ginny shook her head angrily. "Why did I think this was going to work out, Draco? You seemed sincere. I thought you were
different, but it's obvious that you're the same arrogant jerk that you were at Hogwarts."

Ginny blinked madly, hoping she wouldn't cry in front of Draco. She had already humiliated herself enough. Crying would
just make matters worse. Ginny couldn't help it, though. A tear trickled down her cheek.

Draco looked at her, ashamed. He looked very sorry. "Ginny…" He moved forward to kiss her, but Ginny backed off.

"Drakie!" Tiana called in a singsong voice, "Are you coming back now? I'm waiting."

Ginny looked at Draco, wiping her eyes. "Just go back to Tiana, Drakie. I have to go."

Ginny flounced off, her red hair bouncing behind her. She slammed the door shut behind her. Draco sighed, and followed
her outside.

"Don't you call me Drakie, Ginnycakes," Draco sneered, his temper rising, "Honestly, you're so immature! Did we even
agree to have a relationship? I don't remember telling you that I wouldn't see any other girls. I don't remember you
asking me not to see any other girls."

Ginny turned around and shook her head vigorously. "I thought there was something special between us, but now I can see
you're just like all the other guys in the world. I don't know why I even considered going out with you when there are
so many other sweet and better-looking guys that would treat me better."

Draco looked hurt. "Aw, come on Ginny. You don't really mean that." It sounded as though Draco was trying to convince
himself of that.

Ginny looked away. "I did mean it."

Before Draco could say anything else, Ginny disappeared into thin air. Sighing, Draco headed back into the house to tell
Tiana to go home. He wasn't in the mood for anything.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Harry sighed, staring blankly at the wall in front of him. Something was bothering him, and he had a feeling he knew
what it was. Harry laid down on the bed, his eyes feeling droopy.

Harry had never been so miserable in a very long time. In fact, he hadn't felt this way since he had left the Dursleys.
Some part of him was miserable and the other part was angry… with himself.

He was angry with himself for calling things off with Hermione. Harry knew it was the right thing to do, but still, some
part of him didn't want to let her go. He knew that he'd never let her go.

Harry lowered his expression and sat back up on the bed, still staring at the blank wall. Maybe she would call. Maybe
Hermione wouldn't cut things off totally between the two of them. Harry knew that he had false hopes. Hermione wasn't
going to call. She was going to marry Ron and…

The phone began to ring. Harry immediately picked Hermione's face in his mind, but cleared it. There was no way she was
going to call. As Harry walked over to pick up the phone, some part of him was hoping it was her.

"Hello?" Harry hoped his voice wasn't too eager.

"Happy to hear from me?" Harry's heart sunk. It was Cho Chang. Harry bit his lip and closed his eyes for a few moments.

"Of course," Harry managed to say, "Always."

They continued to talk and Harry couldn't help but glance at the picture of Hermione and him every few moments. No,
Harry was positive that he'd never get over Hermione Jane Granger.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Hermione picked up her mail from the mailbox and headed inside. As soon as she reached the phone and saw that there were
14 messages from Ron, she quickly erased all of them. She was in no mood to talk to him.

Hermione looked through her mail and realized in astonishment that she had received a letter from Mr. Weasley and Mrs.
Weasley. Had Ron put them up to this? Feeling irritated, Hermione tore open the letter and scanned it. It was an invite
to her own engagement party. When had Ron and her decided on the date? Hermione didn't remember ever discussing the
party.

Reading the letter over again, Hermione realized that the party was tomorrow. Her engagement party was tomorrow, and Ron
and her hadn't even discussed it? What was she to wear? What was Ron wearing?

Frustrated, Hermione threw the letter to the ground and snatched her phone. She dialed Ron's number, and waited for him
to pick the phone up. After a few rings, Ron finally picked it up.

"Mione, glad you called," he told her. Hermione's insides burned. How could Ron talk to her so normally when so much was
going wrong?

"Our engagement party is tomorrow?" Hermione exclaimed, "Is this true, Ron? Is it?"

Ron didn't say anything for a few moments.

"It is, isn't it," Hermione said accusingly, "You and your freaking parents decided to plan the engagement party without
me! What's an engagement party without the fiancée, huh?"

Ron sighed. "It had to be planned soon, Hermione. You understand that. And since well you haven't been in a very
talkative mood, I decided to organize it myself with the help of Mum."

Hermione sighed, exasperated. She sat down at her desk, and began scribbling madly on a piece of paper to take out her
anger. "Ron, it's not like we're getting married anytime soon. The engagement party didn't have to happen right away!"

There was a pause on the line. "Ron?"

Hermione heard Ron gulped, and suddenly, she felt nervous. Ron hadn't done anything without asking her, had he?

"Ron?" Hermione asked, her voice trembling slightly. She took a deep breath, trying to keep her voice even. "Did you…
plan anything else without me? Like our wedding, perhaps?"

Ron didn't answer, and the line was silent. Hermione sighed in frustration. "Ron, if you don't tell me right now…"

"Fine," Ron blurted out, "Our wedding is on August 15th. I already picked the date, and booked it in Diagon Alley."

Hermione closed her eyes and felt them burn. She had never been more frustrated with Ron. For as long as she could
remember, Ron had always consulted her before making decisions. Now he was doing everything on his own.

"Hermione," Ron pleaded, "Please don't be mad at me. I did it because I thought you'd appreciate that I'm finally doing
something on my own instead of always relying on you."

"Our wedding," Hermione stated, trying not to let her anger show, "Is the one thing, Ron, that we are supposed to plan
together. That's why it's called our wedding, instead of Ron's wedding."

Ron sighed. "All I did was pick the date and book the place."

"I thought you said we weren't going to get married right away!" Hermione exclaimed, aggravated. She was practically
screaming now. "You told me that, Ron. Do promises mean nothing to you?"

Hermione waited, but Ron didn't answer. Instead, he hung up the phone. Hermione sighed, closing her eyes. She didn't
want to deal with this anymore. She didn't want to deal with any of it. Now she had to find something to wear.

Are you marrying Ron just because Harry rejected you? A voice inside Hermione's head asked. Hermione shook the thought
away, but knew that it was the truth. Hermione didn't want to marry Ron Weasley one bit.

Hermione glanced at the picture frame of her and Harry, and a tear trickled down her cheek. If only things hadn't turned
out the way that they had.

Hermione stared at the picture one more time, and at that moment, she knew what she had to do. Determined, she pulled
out a piece of parchment and wrote until her hand was numb.

A/N: So Hermione is writing something… I don't want to ruin who it's to and what it's about, but let me just tell you…
you'll find out in the next chapter. I think you guys will like what she's writing.

Also, the engagement party will be happening next chapter. We will get some H/Hr fluff. :D I know you all are looking
forward to that.

PLEASE DON'T GIVE UP ON ME AND KEEP READING/REVIEWING.

Speaking of reviewing, you know what to do =)

LOVE YOU GUYS (:

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12. Bad Day

Chapter Twelve: "Bad Day"

A/N: Sorry it took me a while to get the next chapter up. Thanks so much for all of your reviews. For those of you
disappointed, the story is going to start to get good… starting from this chapter.

Ron was dressed in a brand new suit. Although his attempts to look formal were not that great, everyone understood his
intentions. The engagement party had just started, and Ron had a feeling it was going to be a hit. The decorations were
fantastic, and the food was delicious.

Ron spotted Seamus talking to Dean near the buffet, and headed towards them. "Thanks for attending," Ron told them
sincerely.

Dean grinned. He looked so much older, now. Ron had no idea where he lived or what he was doing with him life. In fact,
Ron hadn't even spoken to Dean since graduation. Seamus, who was still in touch with Dean, managed to track Dean down
for the engagement. "I'm glad I could attend."

Seamus looked around. "Where is your lady, Ron? I haven't seen Hermione at all. Is she even here yet?"

Ron looked around. Odd enough, Hermione was nowhere in sight. Ron felt slightly angry. How dare Hermione miss their
engagement party? The party was supposed to be for the two of them. How was it an engagement party if his fiancée wasn't
even there?

Ron headed over to where his parents were chatting. "Mum, have you seen Hermione?"

Mrs. Weasley's smile vanished, and was replaced with a worried expression. She looked very stressed, and Ron could tell
that she hadn't seen Hermione either. "No, dear, I haven't seen her. Are you sure she didn't get the time mixed up?"

"I'm sure," Ron answered bitterly, remembering their phone call, "She didn't get the timing mixed up, that's for sure."

Ron turned around, still fuming and found himself face to face with the one person he wanted to see least- Harry. Ron's
jaw dropped, and he had no idea whether to yell at Harry or punch him square in the nose. "What the heck are you doing
here?" Ron hissed, sliding his hand over his wand. He gripped it tightly, wondering whether Harry was here to fight him.

"I'm just here to deliver something from Hermione," Harry told Ron stiffly. He pulled something out of his pocket, and
Ron knew it had to be a wand.

"EXPELLIARMUS!" Ron hollered, pointing his wand at Harry's hand. Harry's wand, which was located in the opposite pocket
of where Harry's hand was in, went flying. It hit the ground about ten feet away. Harry scrambled to reach his wand, and
pointed it at Ron. Ten heads turned towards their direction, and watched curiously. Whispers of "wasn't Harry Ron's old
friend" were heard as more and more people gathered around to get a look at Harry. Many hadn't even seen Harry since he
had returned from his fight with Voldemort.

"I'm not here to fight you, Ron," Harry told him sternly.

Ron smirked. "How does it feel, Harry, defeater of You Know Who? Are you embarrassed that you're sidekick outsmarted and
outwitted you? Are you angry that I outsmarted The Boy Who Defeated Voldemort?"

"Ron," Harry muttered warningly, "People are staring. Once again, I'm not here to fight you."

"I know," Ron panted, "I know you're the reason Hermione has left me. You're the reason she's not here!" He aimed a
curse at Harry, but Harry dodged it. One of Ron's guests fell to the ground, paralyzed. More heads turned. This time,
Mrs. Weasley and Mr. Weasley turned away from their guests to gasp in horror.

"Ronald!" Mrs. Weasley exclaimed in shock, "What are you doing to our guests?"

"Stay out of it, Mum," Ron snarled, "Harry and I aren't finished talking yet."

Mrs. Weasley, not quite understanding what was going on, turned around, disgusted by her son.

Ron was on fire. All of his anger that he had built up over ten years was finally getting out of him. He was finally
going to get even with Harry. "I bet you're really embarrassed now," Ron ranted, "When I make you unconscious, that'll
prove that I'm just as good of a wizard as you. Maybe then Hermione will come to her senses and realize I'm everything
you are and more."

Harry shook his head. "Ron, I didn't force Hermione to like me! I didn't cast a love charm on her or something."

"But you would," Ron muttered, "You would. You would do that just to steal away the one thing I finally have to myself."

"Hermione never knew you like she knew me!" Harry screamed, sweat trickling down his face as he moved at a rapid pace to
dodge Ron's spells. Ron looked almost bored, waving his want over and over again muttering curses under his breath.
However, he was perplexed that Harry continued to dodge them.

"Go back in hiding," Ron hissed, "Hermione doesn't need you messing with her life. You hear me?" Ron raised his voice
higher. "Everything was fine until you came along. You've just messed everything up."

"STUPEFY!" Ron raged, pointing his wand directly at Harry. The hex came so fast, that Harry didn't have time to duck. It
struck him square in the chest. With a wail of shock, he fell to the ground, unconscious.

Now everyone was gathered around them. Some of the younger children's interests seemed to spark up, while others just
looked terrified. Nothing like this normally happened at engagement parties.

Ron stared at the unconscious, but breathing Harry, his heart filling with content and satisfaction. Ron slipped his
wand back into his pocked and walked over towards Harry's left hand, which was wrapped around something. When Ron got
closer, he realized it was a note. The note was crumbled slightly, and the corner was torn a bit. Ron opened up Harry's
stiff hand and pulled the note out carefully.

I did what I had to do. It made me wonder, Ron, was I marrying you because I want to marry you, or was I marrying you
because you asked me? It's obvious… I love you. But not as my boyfriend, fiancée or potential husband, but as my best
friend.

And I can't bear to be with you, because I'm in love with someone else. And I'd rather be alone than cheating you of a
happy life. You deserve someone that loves you. I'm sorry I broke my promise, and I'm disappointed that you broke yours.
But it's better this way. Why? Because I promise. And this time, I plan on not breaking my promise.

I'll see you again, once we both get over this phase in our life. I know it's tough, Ron, but it's time to accept the
truth. We were never meant to be.

-Hermione

Ron crumbled up the note in his hand, shocked. His eyesight was so blurred with tears that he didn't even realize that
Harry had already left. Mr. Weasley had already revived him. Ron thought about Hermione's words, and realized that she
was telling the truth. What were they doing together?

Mrs. Weasley came up behind Ron. "Dear, what was Harry doing here? Was he on the guest list? And why did you knock him
unconscious?" She looked as though she was trying to control her temper, in hopes that Ron would tell her what exactly
was going on.

Ron felt numb. He could hardly breathe, and all he could think about was leaving the horrible party. Ron just shook his
head, and walk passed his mom. "The engagement is off," he whispered to nobody in particular, "Hermione and I are over."

Ron felt a raindrop on his cheek. He looked up and realized that it had started to rain. Drenched in the rain, Ron ran.
He ran away from the people with questioning glances, the party, and his past.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Hermione heard her doorbell ring. She put down her pen, stopping midsentence in the novel she was writing, and got up to
get the door. As she passed a mirror, she smoothened her brown hair. After gussying up, she slowly opened up the door.

There stood Harry, drenched from the rain. His black hair was flat for once, and his clothes were damp. He looked worn
out, and there were grass clippings all of his shoulders. It seemed as though he had gone to sleep on the grass.
Hermione stared at the one man she loved, unable to say a word. All she could do was watch him in surprise and agony,
remembering how he had broken up with her.

"I delivered the note," Harry told Hermione formally, "Just thought I'd let you know. I was planning on just calling you
and telling you, but since I could just apparate over, I decided to do that."

Harry shut his mouth, realizing that he was rambling. Hermione smiled slightly and felt relieved. She wasn't the only
one who was nervous and felt that the situation was slightly weird.

"Um, thanks," Hermione told Harry shyly, lowering her glance. She stared at the tiles on the floor as if they were
fascinating.

Harry slowly lifted up Hermione's chin. Hermione felt shivers fly up spine at Harry's touch. His touch was warm, and
reminded her of the good times the two of them had shared together.

"Hermione," Harry murmured, "Hermione… Hermione."

Hermione forced herself to look into Harry's beautiful green eyes. "Harry," she started trying to keep her voice level,
"You shouldn't have come over. Ch-Cho is probably waiting for you."

Harry shook his head slowly, sadness glistening in his eyes. "I don't want us to be like this."

"But you don't want us to be more than this," Hermione answered, refusing to look away from his eyes, "You're the one
that made it this way, Harry. Don't forget about that."

"I want…my best friend back," Harry told Hermione, tears glistening in his eyes, "I don't want us to not talk. You,
Hermione, you're the only one that knows me. Nobody knows me like you do. Nobody loves me like you do."

Hermione blinked madly, trying to prevent the tears from falling. Harry was right about that. Nobody loved Harry like
she did. "Why are we giving up something I think we both want?" Hermione whispered.

"Because I can't hurt you," Harry answered simply, "I don't want to be responsible for that stunning smile of yours
turning into a frown."

"You already are, Harry."

Harry didn't answer. He paused for a few moments, shuffling his feet. "I want us to be friends again."

"And I want us to be more than friends," Hermione countered. She pushed her brown hair away from her neck. "So it looks
like we can't always have what we want."

"I miss you, Hermione." Harry wrapped his arms around Hermione, and buried his face in her embrace. Hermione felt a
tingling sensation as she held Harry close to her. She slowly brought his face up to hers and then kissed him, trying to
memorize the feeling of his lips. She had a feeling that would be the last time she ever kissed Harry Potter.

After a few perfect seconds, Harry pulled away from Hermione regretfully. He sighed, not wanting to leave Hermione's
house. If he could, he would stay in her arms forever.

"You should go," Hermione told Harry softly, avoiding his glance. She couldn't bear to watch him leave. She didn't want
Harry to walk out of her life.

"Will you call?" Harry asked, kissing Hermione's cheek. Hermione felt her face turn a little pink.

"I promise," Hermione answered. She knew she didn't want to just let Harry go without knowing when she'd hear from him
again. Now that she was sure she'd be talking to him soon, Hermione could almost ignore that emptiness she felt inside
of her heart as she watched Harry shut the door behind him.

Harry stood on the other side of the door, his heart thumping. Why didn't he just tell Hermione what Ron had done to
him? She would definitely not feel bad about the breakup if he had. Somehow, though, Harry couldn't. Hermione would just
cry out, hug him, and make sure he was okay. Harry didn't want anyone feeling sorry for him. In reality, Ron was right.
He was embarrassed that his former best friend who he had always beat in everything had finally beat him in something.
Was Ron right when he said that Harry had taken away the one thing Ron could have? Was that the reason Harry loved
Hermione… because Ron did?

Harry shook his head. He couldn't believe it was true. He wouldn't. Ron was crazy, and had no idea what he was talking
about.

Rubbing the part of his right shoulder that had hit the ground first when Ron had hexed him, Harry trudged away from the
apartment, scanning the stars in the sky, as if searching for the answers to his unsolvable problems.

A/N: There you have it… the engagement party. (:
I know you guys are happy Hermione and Ron broke things off… so won't you review? Also, if you have time, please review
my other stories… especially Loving You is My Deepest Secret & Gryffindor Gone Slytherin.

Coming up next chapter… Cho's secret =)

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13. Empty Apartment

Chapter Thirteen: "Empty Apartment"

A/N: This chapter is practically ALL CHO. You'll be learning a lot about her. Plus, she will have a run in with
Hermione… (:

Please take the time to leave a review !!
If you're the person who reads and doesn't review, PLEASE just take a few moments of your time to review. Thanks so much
and enjoy.

Cho Chang brushed her long black hair in front of the mirror, taking out all of the tangles. She was glad she was
finally going to get out of the house and go shopping. It felt like ages that Cho had been cooped up in her small
apartment with nothing but a big belly.

"You'll be coming out soon," Cho whispered, rubbing her stomach, "Soon the three of us will be a perfect family."

Cho made sure she had plenty of muggle money before snapping her fingers and apparating to London's finest department
store.

Cho arrived in the corner of the department store. She looked around at the deserted section of the large store, and
realized that she was already in the right section- the baby section. Cho smiled, excited, as she ran over towards a
pink laced crib. She fingered it, imagining Capella in it.

"Cho," a very familiar voice called nervously from behind her. Cho turned around and saw Hermione Granger standing
there, looking surprised.

Cho looked over Hermione. She hadn't seen Hermione in approximately ten years. Although Cho knew that Harry and Hermione
were still friends, for some reason, Harry never invited Hermione over to their house.

Cho felt a twinge of envy as she stared at Hermione's beautiful brown locks of hair. Her eyes were intense and
vivacious. However, Hermione didn't look very pleased to see Cho. Cho couldn't imagine why, for she was going to marry
Hermione's best friend. Maybe.

Cho sighed. When was Harry going to propose? The baby was due in a month, and she was hoping they could get married and
settled before then. Although Harry and her already lived together, it just wasn't the same. Cho had a feeling that
Harry was postponing on purpose. Was it possible that there was another woman involved in Harry's life? Cho shook her
head. Harry wasn't the type of person to cheat.

"What brings you here, Hermione?" Cho asked pleasantly, "Merlin, it's been a long time since we last saw each other."

Hermione attempted to smile. "I've been moping around the house too much, and I thought it would do me some good to get
out of the house."

Cho nodded, relating completely to what Hermione was saying. After all, Cho wasn't able to go many places because of
Capella. "Yes, having little girl in my stomach makes it hard to go places. I've been in the house way too much as well.
It's good to get fresh air once in a while, don't you think?"

Hermione stared at Cho's stomach. "I didn't even realize you were pregnant. You're so thin!" Hermione tried to wipe out
the image of punching Cho right in the stomach.

"Aw, Hermione, you're too kind." Cho blushed slightly. "I'm really not that thin, though. I'm due in a month."

"Oh," Hermione looked a little more interested. "Then you must know who the father is, right?"

Cho looked at Hermione curiously. Had Harry failed to mention that he and Cho were having a baby? How could Harry not
tell his best friend something like that? Unless, having a child wasn't that important to Harry… Cho tried to erase her
ill thoughts about Harry. Harry had probably not spoken to Hermione recently.

"I can't believe Harry didn't tell you!" Cho smiled widely, "Harry's the father of the baby."

Cho waited for Hermione to get excited and congratulate her, but that didn't happen. Instead, Hermione just stared at
Cho, her eyes wide.

"Hermione?" Cho asked cautiously.

Hermione opened her mouth to say congratulations, but no sound came out of her mouth. She just couldn't bring herself to
it. She couldn't pretend to be happy for her lover and his girlfriend who were having a baby. This meant that Harry and
Cho were probably going to get married…

"Uh, congratulations," Hermione managed to say, not looking at Cho, "Does this mean you and Harry are engaged?"

Cho looked at Hermione weirdly. "I still can't believe you didn't know this. Have you talked to Harry recently?"

Hermione felt the need to defend her best friend. "No," she lied, "I haven't heard from him in a few months. We were
actually planning on getting together with Ron later this week. We were having dinner, his treat. Maybe that's when he
was planning on telling us." Hermione felt quite pleased with the lie she had come up with. She said it with such
innocence that anyone would have believed her.

"Well," Cho started, her face looking a little sadder, "Harry hasn't proposed to me yet, and I'm starting to get a
little impatient. I really want us to get married before the girl is born. Anyways, if you do see him this week, can you
hint to him to propose? It would mean a lot to me, Hermione."

Hermione bit her lip, biting back the urge to shout in despair. Now the girl Harry was going to marry was asking
Hermione to help the two of them out? Hermione held back a glare. She could pretend to be happy for them, but no way
would she in her right mind help them.

"Sure," Hermione heard herself say, "I'd be glad to give him the extra push. He's probably just a little shy."

Hermione scoffed. If Harry really wanted to propose, he would have already done it. Hermione smiled to herself. This
meant that Harry still had feelings for her. It all made sense now. He didn't want to see Hermione anymore because he
knew that Cho was having his baby. Hermione sighed.

"You've always been so kind to me," Cho gushed, looking grateful, "Even at Hogwarts. You are always looking out for
everyone else's happiness."

Yup, that's what I am, Hermione thought silently, the girl that sacrifices her own happiness for the sake of others.

"Nice running into you," Hermione said shortly, pushing past Cho. "Make sure you invite me your wedding," Hermione added
mordantly.

Cho however didn't catch the sarcasm. "Oh, you'll definitely be invited! Even if I didn't invite you, Harry would insist
on you coming."

Hermione looked away, and chose not answer Cho's last statement. Instead, she walked into a fitting room stall and
apparated back to her house. It had been a long day, and Hermione was definitely not going to be calling Harry tonight.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Cho apparated inside of the hospital, and began to waddle as quickly as she could towards the check in desk. She checked
her watch and groaned in frustration. She couldn't believe she was already ten minutes late for her baby's checkup.

Cho reached the front desk, panting. The nurse standing behind the desk gave her an odd look. "Maternity ward, I
presume."

"Uh…" Cho wasn't exactly sure how to answer that, because it wasn't exactly a question but it wasn't exactly a statement
either. Cho just nodded, feeling very tired from her quick walk.

"You'll be in room 309, where your healer is already waiting. You can give him your excuse about why you're late." Cho
glared at the nurse and then trudged past her without thanking her.

Cho made her way slowly towards the room, her heart picking up speed with every step. The doctor was supposed to take a
DNA test today for her, and Cho was afraid of the results.

Sighing, Cho couldn't believe she had lied to Harry about the baby. The truth was, two weeks ago when she had gone in
for her checkup, they were unable to test the baby for DNA. Cho was afraid of losing Harry, so she had told him that the
baby was his. Well actually, it wasn't exactly a lie. The baby might be his.

Cho knew that if Harry ever found out about this, he would be right in mind to let her go. She had never been this
horrible in her life, and Cho had to admit that she did it because she loved Harry.

The door of 309 was open slightly. Cho hurried inside of the room, looking down at her feet as she did so. She stood
there for a few moments before looking up. A male healer was standing there, obviously completely irritated by her
tardiness.

"You're late," he told her coldly. Cho bit her lip.

"I didn't realize it would take me so long to walk," Cho lied, "I didn't realize how big I've gotten."

The healer raised an eyebrow, but didn't say anything more. Instead, he changed the subject. "Take a seat, and you can
tell me and specific concerns you have."

Cho's heart began to flutter rapidly again as she took a seat. She waited till the healer took a seat, before she said,
"I'd like a DNA test."

"Oh." The healer stared at her for a moment. "I'm sorry, you can't test the baby for DNA until it is born. You're going
to have to wait until then."

Cho couldn't take it any longer. She stopped fighting back tears. Instead, bit her lip and then began to sob.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

"Cho, I'm going to be back. I have to run some errands," Harry told Cho as she entered the house, "I will hopefully be
back by tonight."

Cho pouted, pursing her pink lips. She pulled Harry towards her body and kissed him longingly. Harry flinched slightly
under Cho's aggression, but allowed Cho to kiss him. Then she pulled away from him slowly. "Was that enough to make you
stay?"

Harry felt a pang of guilt, realizing that he hadn't exactly been the best boyfriend lately. He was always off at
Hermione's or doing something else for his Quidditch team. He really owed Cho.

"It's important," Harry sighed, "I'm so sorry. I swear I'll be back as fast as possible, okay? Then I'll make it up to
you."

"You'll make it up to me and Capella?" Cho asked softly, looking up at him with her innocent eyes, "Are we going to be a
family?"

"In time," Harry promised, "We'll be a family in time."

Harry nuzzled Cho and then apparated to the apartment of the one girl Harry was always in the mood to see. Once he
reached the apartment, he rang the doorbell. He usually called before he came over to Hermione's place, but he was
pretty sure Hermione had nowhere better to go.

Sure enough, Hermione opened the door, looking her beautiful self. Her wavy brown hair was straight, and pulled back in
a high ponytail. She was dressed in her pajamas, and was holding a book.

Hermione looked up from her novel and stumbled backwards in shock. "Merlin, Harry. Don't surprise me like that!"

Harry smiled slightly, eager to hear more of Hermione's voice. He loved the way she looked, talked, and acted. He loved
everything there was to Hermione Granger, and knew that Cho could never compete with such a perfect girl.

"Well, was it a good surprise?" Harry asked playfully, giving Hermione an amused grin.

To answer Harry's question, Hermione glared and then slammed the door right in his face.

A/N: To sum it all up: Cho doesn't know who her child is & Hermione is angry with Harry. This story is rapidly
approaching its end. ): I won't tell you guys exactly how many chapters are left, but expect about 5.

PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW (:
Thanks and I hope you like this story.

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14. She Will Be Loved

Chapter Fourteen: "She Will Be Loved"

A/N: Here's chapter fourteen. I have finished writing this story and it will be EIGHTEEN CHAPTERS. :( That means the
story is almost over. -sniffs- Oh well, I'll just enjoy it while it lasts.

So, enjoy the story and please remember to leave a review.

Harry stared at the door, confused. He started banging on it madly, wondering why Hermione had acted so coldly.
"Hermione, open up the door!"

"Why?" Hermione called from the other side of the door, angrily, "Why should I open the door, Harry?"

Harry pondered his answer, wondering if it was a trick question. "Uh, because we're best friends?" Harry asked
hopefully. He stopped pounding on the door, and waited for Hermione's response.

"I thought best friends told each other everything," Hermione told Harry softly. Harry could tell that she was crying
based on the sound of her voice.

"Mione…" Harry sighed. It was obvious that somehow, Hermione had found about Cho having Harry's baby.

"Go home," Hermione choked, "Cho and your child need you more than I do. They're your family, Harry…"

Harry shook his head vigorously, even though Hermione couldn't see him. "I didn't ask for this to happen, Hermione,"
Harry pleaded, "Please understand. I don't want this."

Hermione scoffed. "You have no idea what you want, Harry. You have everything in the world."

Harry's heart thumped, and he sat down on the cement, leaning his head on the door. "I don't have the one thing in the
world that I want, Hermione. And that's you."

Hermione's remarks were silenced. She had nothing left to say. All she wanted now was to fall into Harry's arms and have
him whisper sweet words of reassurance and love to her. All she wanted was him.

"I love you, Hermione," Harry told her quietly, when Hermione didn't respond.

Hermione's heart stopped. Her fingers trembling slightly, she slowly opened the door. Harry stood up and Hermione stared
into his green eyes with longing. If only things had been different.

"Oh, Harry…" Hermione whispered, tears forming in her eyes, "I love-" Hermione was cut off by Harry's lips.

Harry put his arms around Hermione protectively, holding her close. "It killed me to see you with Ron," he confessed, "I
want you to be mine forever."

Harry's shirt soaked up Hermione's tears, as she cried in his arms. "It's killing me to see you with Cho, and it's going
to kill me to watch the two of you raise your daughter," she whispered, her voice muffled by Harry's shirt.

Harry kissed Hermione passionately, and Hermione ran her fingers through Harry's raven-black hair. Hermione clung onto
Harry as if holding on with her life. She promised herself that she'd never let go of him.

Harry trailed kisses up Hermione's cheek, whispering 'I love you' over and over to her until finally, he pulled away
from her. Harry sighed regretfully, and Hermione felt herself screaming for Harry to kiss her again.

"Call me for real, this time?" Harry whispered in Hermione's ear, as he turned around to leave. Hermione nodded
slightly.

"I promise."

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Ginny watched the movie lazily on the couch. Her breakup with Draco was affecting her greatly, and she hadn't been out
of the house since they broke up. Ginny was constantly paranoid about running into Draco that she decided to avoid going
out of the house all together. The only time she headed out was to stock up on junk food and movies to watch.

Ginny stuffed the popcorn in her mouth, tasting the butter between her teeth. She didn't care if she gained a hundred of
pounds. There was nobody to impress with her body, anyways.

Ginny lounged on the couch, lying on her back. She put the popcorn down and started sipping her soda in long gulps. Her
pizza was due any minute, and Ginny was still hungry after devouring the chips, popcorn, and chocolate she had put out
for herself. Ginny glanced at the clock.

As if on cue, the doorbell rang. Ginny took a minute to pull herself up off the couch and drag herself towards the door.
All Ginny wanted to do was sleep and watch movies all day. There was nothing left in life for her. Draco was gone, and
so were her dreams.

Ginny realized that her hair was probably a mess. Not wanting to scare the delivery man away, Ginny ran her fingers
through her hair before opening the door. Instead of a man in a white uniform standing there holding a small pizza,
there was a boy with blonde hair and intense gray eyes.

"Draco," Ginny gasped, shocked. She was probably a mess! If only she hadn't stayed in her pajamas all week. And she
hadn't showered in two days, either. Her hair wasn't brushed, her teeth weren't brushed, and she definitely had no
makeup on. Basically, Draco had caught her on her worst day.

Draco looked down timidly. "Mind if I uh come in, Ginny?"

Ginny didn't say anything. She was in such shock that her lips wouldn't move. After several deep breathes, Ginny
stammered, "Yeah...uh…sure, Mal- Draco. Yes, come in."

Without a second glance, Draco pushed passed Ginny into the living room. He stared at all of the junk food in disgust.
"Ginny, what are you doing to yourself?"

Ginny shrugged, looking embarrassed. "I might as well eat all I want. I don't have anyone to impress with my figure."

Draco nodded, agreeing. "You're right about that one at least, Ginny."

Ginny looked at Draco angrily. Her flaming red hair was all over her back and shoulders. "What do you mean?" Ginny
demanded, "Are you saying that I'm never going to date again?"

Draco shook his head. "I'm saying," Draco started calmly, "That you don't have to worry about impressing anyone because
I'm already impressed."

Ginny faced Draco, her eyes slightly wide. She sat down on the couch, crossing her arms. "I'm not going to be one of
your million playthings, Draco."

Draco nodded. "I know you aren't, Red. The way I treated you was disgusting, and if I could change anything in the past,
that's the one event I'd change."

Ginny softened. Draco could sense that she was starting to give in. "How can I trust you? You gave me your word and then
you broke it. It really hurts, Draco, to see you with another woman."

Draco crushed his lips into Ginny's, pulling her into him. Ginny's breath stopped, and her heart raced. At that moment,
she forgot the past and remembered why she was so in love with Draco. He could talk Ginny into anything, and even though
he looked like a man who couldn't love, Ginny knew that he loved her.

Draco continued to kiss Ginny zealously, until Ginny finally pulled away.

Draco looked at her, confused. "Oh God, Ginny… did I do something wrong? I'm so sorry."

Ginny shook her head firmly. "No Draco, you were perfect as always. It's just, I haven't showered or brushed my teeth,
and I've eaten nothing but junk food. God, I'm such a mess."

"You're a beautiful mess," Draco winked, kissing Ginny's cheek. Ginny's face flushed.

"I'll…I'll call you tomorrow, okay?" Ginny whispered, "Because right now I have to shower, brush my teeth, work off all
this fat, and then clean-" Draco put his lips to Ginny, silencing her.

"Ginny," Draco laughed, pulling away from her, "Don't worry about it. I will call you tomorrow evening. That'll give you
plenty of time to work out, even though you don't need it, shower, brush your teeth, and clean."

Ginny bit her lip, looking down at her feet. "You're too good for me, Draco. I don't deserve you."

Draco shook his head, kissing her slowly. "You're wrong. You're the one that's too good for me. I'm lucky you're giving
me a second chance."

Ginny looked at Draco pleadingly. "Now go, please? I need to shower. All I can smell is myself."

Draco kissed Ginny one last time. "I…I love you, Red."

Ginny's heart melted as she heard Draco utter those words to her. She knew that everything was going to work out.
"You've been through so much with me, and I've never felt so attracted to anyone. Now I know what I was missing out all
along."

"And?" Draco prompted.

Ginny smiled, pressing her lips against Draco's. "And I love you too, Draco. I promise. Now go."

Draco vanished into thin air as Ginny made a mad dash towards the shower, tripping over her own feet.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Hermione sat at her desk, writing her romance novel on parchment. She chewed her tongue as she concentrated hard, trying
to get all of her thoughts on the paper when the phone rang.

"Perfect timing," Hermione muttered sarcastically. Annoyed, she threw her pencil on her desk and snatched the phone from
its receiver.

"What?" Hermione snapped into the phone.

There was a pause.

"Who is it?" Hermione asked impatiently, tapping her fingers on the wall. She didn't have all day. Maybe she should just
hang up and get back to her novel…

"Hermione?"

Hermione froze. It was Cho Chang.

"Yes, Cho?" Hermione asked, her heart thumping wildly. Did something happen to Harry? Why was Cho calling Hermione? And
how had Cho gotten Hermione's number? Had Harry given it to her? There was so many questions whirling around in
Hermione's mind.

"I need to discuss what's going on between you and Harry."

A/N: cliffhanger (: haven't really had a good one of those in a while. So what did you guys think? Please leave me a
review. It only takes about a minute and it will MAKE MY DAY. Thanks so much. DON'T FORGET TO REVIEW.

Love you guysss xP

-- H/Hr Love

-->

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15. Right Where I Belong

Chapter Fifteen: "Right Where I Belong"

A/N: (: Chapter fifteen is up !! The chapters are a bit shorter now, because we are rapidly approaching the end of this
story :( Three more chapters left to go after this one. -hands you a tissue- It's okay, don't cry.

Haha, so please enjoy the chapter and don't forget to leave me a review :D

Hermione's pulse raced, as she gripped the phone tightly. Her heart hammered, and she felt as though she couldn't
breathe. Under no circumstances would she have ever suspected to be talking to her lover's girlfriend on the phone. Or
at least, not voluntarily. Hermione panicked. Had she seen Harry with her?

"What are you talking about?" Hermione asked innocently. Yes, she had decided, it was best to play dumb. Maybe Hermione
was overreacting for no reason. Maybe Cho just wanted to ask Hermione advice on Harry, or something like that.

"Did Harry tell you about my uh current situation?" Cho inquired, choosing her words very carefully.

Hermione felt hot as she remembered what she had tried so hard to forget. Cho's pregnancy. "Of course. Harry told me
about it," Hermione answered, trying to sound pleasant, "Congratulations! A baby…how exciting. Then again, you filled it
me in on it when we ran into each other."

Cho sighed in relief. "Oh thank God he told you about our child. I thought he might be hiding it or something from you.
For some reason, he doesn't seem very comfortable with Capella."

"Capella?" Hermione interrupted, jealousy surging through her. They had already picked out a name for their baby! Now
all that was left was… their marriage.

Hermione swallowed, not able to digest this. So this was why Harry wanted to break up. It wasn't because he didn't love
Hermione, but because he knew the news would hurt her. Hermione laughed bitterly. It hurt even more now, hearing it from
the woman that was holding Harry's baby.

"Yes… oh it was supposed to be surprise," Cho muttered, "But it's okay. You are Harry's best friend, after all. It's
okay I you know. We plan to name our little girl Capella. Isn't that the sweetest name?"

"Sweet. Yes." Hermione couldn't take anymore. Not caring that she was being rude, Hermione slammed down the receiver.
How could she talk to Harry again after this? She was just coming between Cho and him. She couldn't keep him away from
his child. Hermione put her head in her arms and cried until there were no more tears.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Ron sat at his office in the Ministry, fiddling with his quill. It was his lunch break, and he had nobody to share it
with. Typically, he'd be out with Hermione, but considering the fact that they weren't on speaking terms…

This was pathetic. Ron wasn't the type of guy to sit around, hung up over a girl who obviously never cared for him. He
stood up, putting on his cloak. He was going to go out and do something interesting. Just when he was all ready to leave
his office, however, his cell phone rang.

Who would be calling Ron on his cell phone? Ron picked up his cell phone, and in bewilderment, realized that it was an
unknown number. Ron opened his phone, and answered it with his most formal tone. "Hello?"

"Ronald, hi!"

Ron's eyebrow lowered in thought, as he tried to figure out who the familiar voice belonged to. It was a girl
definitely, and kind of dreamy-like…

"Luna!" Ron exclaimed loudly as he realized who he was talking to, "Luna Lovegood… where in the name of Merlin did you
get my number?"

"The Ministry gave it to me," she replied, her voice wistful. "You see, Ronald, I work at the Quibbler and was asked to
interview the sports department on the Golden Cup Tournament. Considering you're the only one I personally know in the
sports department, I thought it was a fantastic idea to interview you. After all, we haven't talked in ages."

Ron listened to Luna's voice, not believing it was her. Somehow, although her voice was still dreamy, it had evolved
from that kiddish voice to a much more womanly voice. Her soothing voice put him in a trance, and Ron found himself not
blinking.

"Well Ronald?" Luna asked, waiting for his response, "Are you free for me lunch right now? We can start the interview
and maybe finish it tomorrow or something."

Ron blinked, refocusing on the subject. He remembered hearing Luna saying something about having lunch with her for an
article in the paper. Well, Ron didn't really care about the paper part, but having lunch with Luna seemed like a great
time. Come to think of it, the last time Ron had seen Luna was at the reunion. He had danced with her once or twice, but
had been so drunk that he couldn't quite remember how she looked or how she had acted. Has she been a good dancer?

Ron cleared his throat, pushing away all thoughts of the reunion. "Yes, I happen to be free right now."

It felt good to have somewhere to be again.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

About half an hour later, Ron was seated across the table from Luna at a local wizards café. Luna had brought her quill,
parchment, and her stunning appearance. Ron stared at Luna intensely, slightly dazed. Had she always been this
beautiful? There was something about the way her hair fell to her shoulders that intrigued Ron. And in addition, Luna
now wore just a touch of makeup. It made her look, well… pretty. Ron flinched slightly by his own thoughts, not
believing them. Loony Lovegood, pretty? Ron blinked and then stared at Luna again. Yes, her beauty was unmistakable. Ron
wasn't just hallucinating.

"You look… nice," Ron complimented Luna with a genuine smile. He looked at her admiringly.

Luna flashed Ron a shy smile. She brushed her hair back. "You look better than usual as well, Ronald."

There was an awkward silence during which neither one knew what to say. Ron cleared his throat loudly. "Uh," he flushed,
"Call me Ron."

Luna smiled slightly, putting her pen to her paper. "Alright. If that's what you want. Now, uh, we should probably begin
the interview."

Ron nodded, not looking away from her intense eyes. What had he been missing out on all of these years?

"Okay, so why did you decide to work at the Ministry?" Luna asked.

Ron opened his mouth to respond, hoping the interview would last quite a while.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Ginny wrapped her arms around Draco's neck. "Mmmm," she murmured, her lips crushed against Draco's. Ginny was certain
there was nothing better than that moment. She loved everything about Draco, and couldn't even picture herself with
another guy.

Ginny closed her eyes as Draco deepened the kiss, losing herself in him. Suddenly, Draco jumped away from Ginny, causing
Ginny to fall forward without his body to lean on. Why had Draco jumped away from her? Had she done something wrong?

Ginny looked at Draco, hurt and confused. He pointed behind her, unable to speak. Ginny turned around slowly, coming
face to face with a fuming Ron Weasley.

"I had a feeling you were seeing someone, Ginny, but I had no idea it was Malfoy!" Ron exclaimed, stamping his foot. He
shook Ginny violently. "How could you do this, Ginny? How could you?"

Draco walked over and shoved Ron away from Ginny. "She's a big girl, Weasel. I think she's a pretty good judge of
character. After all, she never got dumped at her engagement party, has she?"

Ron growled, lowering his glance. "Who told you about that?" Ron hissed, his eyes trying to burn Draco's flesh. Draco
didn't flinch. He maintained his cool smile, shaking his head so that his blonde hair went behind his head.

"It's all over the wizarding world," Draco laughed, "I bet it was even in the paper; 'Weasel was dumped by his ugly
Mudblood girlfriend at their engagement party, and she didn't even do it in person. Plus, she ditched him for Potter.'"

"For your information, she is not going out with Harry," Ron replied, his ears pink, "So she didn't break up with me for
Harry. They are just friends."

Draco, trying to piss Ron off, put his lips on Ginny's, kissing her passionately. Out of the corner of his eye, he
watched Ron's face go from pink to red to dark crimson. Ginny pushed Draco away, not wanted to upset Ron anymore.

"Ron, Draco and I are in love," Ginny told him furiously, "And nothing you say or do will change that. Just because
you're single doesn't mean you have to try and ruin my love life."

"You're making a mistake, Ginny," Ron told her heatedly. He pulled out his wand. "And I'm not going to let you make this
mistake."

A/N: :O Ginny was caught… by RON. We'll see how it all turns out in the next chapter. Also coming next chapter: a small
H/Hr scene.

Please review !!

It only takes a few seconds to leave me a few lines and it'll make my day.
Thanks for reading. (and reviewing)

-->

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16. How To Deal

Chapter Sixteen: "How To Deal"

A/N: Only two more chapters left (not including this one) Please enjoy & review.

): A lot of you don't understand how the story will end so quickly, but don't worry, it will.

Can I let you in on a secret?

I've started writing a sequel to this story !! This story WILL come to a closure, though. The sequel will be much more
lighthearted and deal with the children of the couples. I won't give you guys the details yet. I'll tell you guys more
about it later. For now, enjoy this chapter. It has D/G and H/Hr.

I'm not going to be updating again this year, so I'll see you guys in 2007.

MERRRY CHRISTMAS, and HAPPY NEW YEAR (:

Ginny rammed herself into Ron, knocking his want out of his hand. "Don't you dare ever point your wand at Draco… or me!"
she screamed in Ron's ear. She ran over to Draco, and Draco put his arm around her protectively. "Do you understand me,
Ronald Weasley?"

"We will snog when we want, and we will do whatever we please. Ginny isn't a kid anymore, Ron. It's time you learn
that," Draco told him quietly, refusing to look Ron in the eye.

Ron didn't answer. He sat down, obviously not absorbing the news very well. His face was bright red, and he didn't look
like he was going to calm down anytime soon. He glared at Ginny for another moment, and then shoved his wand back into
his pocket. "I'm telling Mum," Ron threatened.

That shut Ginny up. Just the thought of Mrs. Weasley learning that her only daughter was dating a Malfoy was enough to
make Mrs. Weasley crazy.

Now it was Draco's turn to get angry. "Ginny, are you never going to tell your family about me?"

Ginny looked down guiltily. "I'm not sure how they'd take the news," she admitted sadly, "They have always been enemies
to your family. I don't want to break their heart."

"So basically we have no relationship?" Draco asked, confused, "We can't even tell people that we're dating?"

Ginny shook her head slowly. She gave Draco a pleading look. "Can't we keep it a secret for a while?" She turned towards
Ron, who was enjoying the mini fight between Ginny and Draco. "Oh, Ron, you can keep a secret, can't you?"

"I don't think it's right to lie to Mum and Dad, Gin," Ron told her hotly, "I think either you tell them or break it off
with Malfoy here." Ron gave Draco a smug smirk. Draco glared back at Ron.

Draco looked at Ginny, waiting for her to agree to introduce him to her parents. However, she didn't answer. She looked
back and forth from Draco and Ron hesitantly. Draco shook his head, turning around.

"You know what, Ginny? Just forget it. This wasn't meant to work out." Draco turned around, and started walking off.

"Draco wait!" Ginny cried desperately. She gave Ron a look of disgust. "Thanks so much, Ron," she muttered.

Ginny ran, catching up to Draco. "Draco, Ron was just trying to come between us! You're giving him exactly what he's
looking for."

Draco turned around so quickly that Ginny didn't have time to react. She crashed right into him, and landed in his arms.
She looked up at him, but Draco ignored her glance. He regretfully pushed her off.

"You know this can't work," Draco told her softly, "Our families hate each other. You're a commitment girl, and I can't
commit. I don't know what I'm doing here with you, Ginny. I can't be tied down to one person."

"People can change," Ginny said quietly, "We were doing fine so far, weren't we?"

Draco shook his head, looking close to tears. He took a deep breath. "I wanted to be something different, Red. Honestly.
I thought… I thought I could change. I'm…I'm in love with you, Ginny."

Ginny inhaled sharply. Sure, Draco had told her so many times that he loved her, but this was the first time he actually
sounded like he sincerely meant it. Ginny bit her lip to keep herself from bawling. "Draco, why can't we work this out?
Doesn't love conquer all?"

Draco smirked slightly. "Ginny, we don't live in a fairy tale. You don't understand how hard this is for me. I've never
loved anyone before, but I can't commit…not to someone who's family will never accept me."

Ginny closed her eyes, and took deep breaths. The wind was blowing lightly threw her hair. Slowly, she opened her eyes.
"But I accept you. And who says my family as to accept the people I'm dating? It's…it's not like we're getting married
or something. We haven't really even been dating that long."

Draco's face fell slightly, and he looked disappointed.

Ginny's eyes widened slightly. Did Draco just look disappointed? Did he want more out of their relationship? Ginny had
said that they weren't dating too seriously because she thought it would satisfy Draco. It wasn't like she didn't want
more out of there relationship, but Draco had just said he was a non-commitment type of person. Was Draco actually
looking for more in their relationship?

"Whatever, Red, just forget it." Draco shook his head, looking down. He started walking off. This time, Ginny didn't go
after him. She knew there was nothing she could do to prove him wrong.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Hermione sat in her room in darkness, staring at the clock. She had been sitting in her room for hours, and the daylight
had segued into darkness. It was Sunday evening, the night Ron usually came over. However, considering the fact that Ron
wouldn't even look at her, Hermione assumed he wasn't going to be coming.

Hermione looked at the cover of the latest Witch Weekly Magazine, hoping to find something to interest her. All the
stories listed on the front page had to do with "looking perfect for your dream guy," and "how to make him love you even
more." Hermione tossed the magazine aside, angry that it had just made her problems worse. Was her magazine trying to
rub in that she was single and heartbroken?

Hermione's glanced turned to the phone. It was sitting on her desk innocently, waiting to be used. She sighed, wondering
whether she should call Harry over. They were still friends, right? And they had to clear up the whole Cho fiasco.

Hermione smirked, not believing how ironic the situation was. Just days before, when Hermione had first learned the
news, she swore that she'd never speak to Harry again. Now, Hermione was dying to see him. Whether they were
romantically involved or not, they were best friends first and then lovers. Friendship came first.

Before pondering any longer, Hermione snatched the receiver and dialed Harry's cell phone number. After three rings, she
heard Harry's voice answer the phone.

Hermione's mouth suddenly felt very dry. Was this a good idea? It wasn't suggesting anything, was it? "Uh…Hi Harry."

"Hermione," he murmured softly, his voice low and loving. Hermione could listen to his voice all day, not getting bored.
It pained her how much she loved him. Even if she tried her hardest to ignore her feelings, she couldn't. They stalked
her, terrorized her. She would never rid herself of her feelings for Harry Potter.

"Come over," Hermione whispered breathlessly, "Please? I need you to be with me."

"Hermione…" Harry told her softly, "I don't know if this is such a good idea. I don't know, it just doesn't feel right."

Hermione shook her head, even though Harry couldn't see her shaking her head. "Harry, just come over as my friend.
Nothing more. We'll pretend it's the day before graduation, okay? Nothing has happened between us. I need my best
friend."

Hermione waited for Harry's response. Harry was hesitating to respond. Was he considering coming over? Hermione held her
breath and closed her eyes, imaging Harry's face. It felt like forever since she had last seen him.

Her Harry was going to be a father. The realization hit her like a ton of bricks. Harry was going to get married, raise
his daughter and possibly have more kids… and she, Hermione, would have to watch from a distance, wishing she was the
beautiful Asian girl that Harry was spending his life with.

"Open your front door, Hermione. I'm here," Harry told her through the phone. Hermione gasped, looking down at herself.
She wasn't even ready yet! She had no idea Harry was going to come right over.

Hermione rushed over towards the door and opened it. Without realizing what she was doing, her lips collided with
Harry's lips. An alarm went off in her head, but for some reason, she couldn't pull herself away from him. As if on cue,
she reached out for her just as she reached out for him.

A few moments later, Hermione pulled away, breathless. "Harry, I'm a mess! I had no idea you'd already be over. Don't go
anywhere, okay? I'll be in the bathroom for a grand total of fifteen minutes, I swear."

Harry nodded, his expression fallen. Hermione trudged off towards the bathroom. Her hair dryer was on so high that she
didn't hear Harry leaving her apartment quietly.

A/N: (: That's the end of chapter sixteen. A bit short, but like I said before, the story is almost over. The next two
chapters are all falling action. Tell me what you think about the sequel idea !! I think it's a good story, and I think
you guys will like it also (:

PLEASE REVIEW.

THANKS SO MUCH !!
MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR (:

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17. Skeptics and True Believers

Chapter Seventeen: "Skeptics and True Believers"

A/N: Chapter seventeen. Wow, one more chapter left to go. You're going to think that there's no way the story will end
with one chapter, but it will.

So enjoy this chapter & savor the last weekish of this story.

Don't forget to leave me a review.

Hermione emerged from the bathroom, fourteen minutes later, glad that she had decided to freshen up. She hadn't been out
of the house for weeks, so naturally, she never bothered doing her hair. This was the first time she had felt alive in
such a long time. Actually, she felt more than just alive. She felt like Hermione Granger.

"Harry, I'm done! And I finished faster than I thought. I saved a minute!" Hermione exclaimed proudly. She listened for
a moment, but heard no response. Hermione frowned slightly. That was odd. Harry wasn't the type of person not to respond
to her when she said something.

She walked into the main room to find it empty. Hermione looked inside the Kitchen to find no Harry. Hermione spotted
the bedroom, and realized that Harry might have lounged on the bed while Hermione had gotten ready. Trying ton convince
herself of this, Hermione entered the bedroom to find it empty. Where had Harry gone? How could he just leave her life
this?

Hermione spotted a bouquet of red roses on her bed. She hurried towards them, putting the roses to her heart. She
realized there was a note attached to the flowers. Fingers trembling, Hermione opened it.

Dear Hermione,

If you have received this note, I'm probably gone. I'm sorry I left you like this, but it hurt to see you. It hurts to
see you every day, because I know that I can't be with you.

Cho is pregnant with my child. I'm going to ask her to marry me.

Hermione paused at that point in the note, and realized that the note was soaked from her tears. Her lip quivering,
Hermione forced herself to read on.

I'm sorry that I've hurt you. Every day I hate myself for not being with you. I love you so much, but I can't be with
you knowing that my baby is somewhere in the world without me.

I have to tell you something. Don't think I left you those ten years because I didn't want to be with you. Believe me,
the only person I ever wanted to be with was you, Mione. Ron told me to stay away from you. I don't know why I listened
to him, but I felt so guilty for not saying goodbye to him that day I left. I felt like I had to make it up to him
somehow, so I abided by his wish.

I'm sorry I stayed away, and I'm sorry I listened to what Ron asked me to do. Things might be different now if we had
just gotten together then, but we didn't. And not even a time turner can change the past, Hermione.

The worst part is… losing you isn't only losing my soulmate- it's losing my best friend. You are more than just that
girl who's friends with the Boy Who Lived, you're the girl that hugged me when she recovered from being paralyzed by the
basilisk from the Chamber of Secrets, the girl that rode with me on Buckbeak to save Sirius, the girl who was worried
about me throughout the Triwizard Tournament, and the girl that kissed me goodbye on Graduation day. You're the girl who
changed my life, Hermione.

Losing the love of my life is hard enough, but losing my best friend… that hurts the most. I'm losing the person that
stuck by my side for 17 years. I'm losing the girl who I am in love with- the girl that has never been afraid to tell me
that I can do anything.

You once promised to dream of me every night. Will you still do the same? Will you think of me, even after you meet that
guy who will change your life? And although it'll hurt to know that you have given your life to a guy who isn't me, at
least you'll be happy. But please, don't forget me. Don't forget that little boy who copied off of your History notes.
He'll always be with you.

I'll always be with you, Hermione. I'm there right now. And when you go to sleep, I'll be with you every night. I
promise.

I know once I promised to be with you forever, and although I can't be there in person, I'll be there in your sleep.
Every night… forever.

I love you, Hermione.
-Harry

Hermione clutched the note as if it was her life support. She let the tears flow, and laid down in her bed. She didn't
want to get up. She didn't want life to go on without Harry. Looking into the air around her, Hermione whispered softly,
"I love you, Harry. I promise."

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Harry ignored the tears trickling down his cheek. The ring in his right pocket felt so heavy, and it seemed like it was
dragging him along. Harry knew he didn't want to do this. This was the last thing Harry wanted to do.

Proposing to Cho was Harry's only option at the moment. It wasn't as if he'd be unhappy with Cho. Harry appreciated Cho,
and knew she'd raise their kid into a beautiful woman. It was just…Hermione.

Harry loved Hermione. He loved her with his entire heart, because not only was she the love of his life, but she was
also his best friend. Harry had known Hermione since his first year at Hogwarts. It had been about seventeen years since
he had first met Hermione. And now, there friendship was stronger than ever. Their love had not destroyed their
friendship, but had preserved it.

Harry stopped walking, staring at the apartment in front of him. It was Cho Chang's. Harry slipped his hand inside his
pocket and fingered the velvet of the ring's cover. He didn't want to do this. He didn't want to do this.

Harry knocked softly on the door, his mind whirling. Maybe she wouldn't be home… maybe she wasn't pregnant…maybe this
was a dream.

The door swung open and there stood Cho. Her stomach had grown a bit larger, and now it was obvious that she was
pregnant. Her black hair was messy, and although she looked stressed, she was still pretty. She wasn't beautiful like
Hermione, though. She was just… pretty.

Why couldn't it be Hermione that was pregnant? Why had Harry been so stupid? If only things were different. Cho could
never live up to Hermione. Harry knew no matter how hard he tried; he would never love Cho as much as he loved Hermione.

Harry swallowed, and pulled his hand out of his pocket. "Cho," he croaked, looking up at her. He could hardly breathe.

Cho gave him an inquisitive look. "Yeah, Harry?"

Slowly, Harry got down on one knee. Cho gasped as Harry pulled out a velvet box, finally realizing why Harry looked so
nervous. For a moment, neither one of them spoke. Harry had to fight back the tears as he faked a smile for Cho.

"Cho Chang, you are the prettiest girl I know, and I love you to death. Will you marry me?"

Harry bit his lip, the ring glittering in the sunlight. All was quiet, and Harry didn't dare look up at Cho. He
continued to stare at his feet as if they were interesting. Another minute passed, and Cho still hadn't said anything.
Harry took a deep breath and looked up to realize that Cho was crying.

A/N: Cho is crying, and Harry has proposed to Cho. What's going to happen next? Please review for the LAST CHAPTER. Info
about the sequel will be released next chapter. PLEASE REVIEW !!

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18. You're Beautiful

Chapter Eighteen: "You're Beautiful"

A/N: And here is the FINAL chapter of I Promise. Wow, I can't believe this story is over. I had an amazing time writing
it & I love all of you guys !! Seriously. Everyone who has continuously been reviewing… I really appreciate every single
one of you. Thank you so much.

Wow. Still not believing it.

Here's the chapter. Read the important author's note at the bottom for some random things & info on the sequel.

Harry stood up, and put his arm around Cho. "Cho… Cho what's wrong?" Harry pulled her close and hugged her tightly. Had
he done something wrong? Why was Cho crying?

Cho sniffed loudly, and allowed herself to be hugged by Harry. She stopped sobbing aloud. Tears continued to fall, but
Cho made no noise.

"Cho…" Harry muttered softly, as Cho buried her head in his embrace.

"I…I just wanted us to be perfect," Cho croaked, "But I know it can't happen, Harry. You love Hermione and she loves
you. I wish it didn't hurt like this, but it does."

Harry felt guilt overwhelm him. He couldn't stand to see Cho like this. The worst part was that he couldn't even deny
it. He would give anything to be with Hermione, but he knew he couldn't.

"Cho, I'm sorry," Harry whispered, his eyes filling up with tears, "I'm sorry we couldn't be a family."

"You know I can't marry you…" Cho trailed off, drying her eyes, "I can't force you into a relationship you don't want to
be apart of. I know the way you look at her, Harry. You look at her in a way you've never looked at me."

"I love her," Harry admitted, on the verge of tears. He couldn't believe this was happening. "But… how did you find
out?"

"To you, I'm pretty but she is beautiful," Cho answered sadly. Tears were rolling down her cheeks.

Harry stared at her, not quite understanding what Cho was talking about. But anyhow, even if he wasn't getting married
to Cho, what were they going to do about the baby?

"But Cho, what about Capella?" Harry asked, a sinking feeling in his stomach, "You're due in a few weeks, and she's
still my child. I can't just abandon her. That's just… cruel."

Cho swallowed. "I lied, Harry." She hung her head, and stared down at her feet. Harry's jaw dropped, and his eyes
widened.

"What do you mean?" Anger was rising within him.

"I don't know whose child Capella is," Cho confessed, "I just… I just didn't want to lose you. I really did, well, do
love you."

Harry's mind was spinning, and he couldn't even comprehend what Cho was saying. "But… but can you raise your daughter by
yourself?"

"I can raise her on my own," Cho answered, "But I'll still need you to remain in Capella's life. As in, you'll have to
visit her, and take her in sometimes… And above all, I need you to forgive me"

"I hope I can forgive you, too… but with time."

Cho nodded, hanging her head. "That's acceptable."

Harry felt numb all over, and he was still in shock. He wasn't getting married to Cho after all. He couldn't believe it.
Everything with him and Hermione wasn't lost…

"Harry, what are you waiting for?" Cho demanded. "Go get the girl you've been pining for. I didn't break up with you for
nothing."

Harry smiled, relieved. He kissed Cho on the cheek. "Thanks, Cho… for everything. You're going to be a great mother.
Capella's really lucky." He was so relieved that Capella wasn't his child that part of him didn't even care that Cho had
lied about it. All he wanted was to get over to Hermione's flat.

"She'll be lucky to have the three of us... you, me, and Hermione."

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Ginny dialed Draco's number over and over again. He was still refusing to pick up. Ginny sighed, remembering the last
time she had seen him. She had told them it was okay if he didn't want to commit, and then he had gotten very angry.
Could it be possible? Was Draco willing to commit to her?

That moment, the doorbell rang. Ginny ran over towards the door, hoping it was Draco. She opened the door, and there,
sure enough, stood Draco.

"Draco, thank God," Ginny breathed, "I've been trying to call you. Why wouldn't you pick up?"

Draco didn't answer. Ginny studied his face. He seemed almost… nervous about something. What could it be?

"Draco?" Ginny asked uncertainly. She kissed him lightly on the lips, and then pulled away. Draco was still staring at
her in a weird way.

"Ginny, do you love me?" he asked softly, finally speaking. Ginny was taken aback by the question. Of course she loved
him!

"Draco, what kind of a question is that? Of course I love you. You know that… Come on, tell me what's going on."

Ginny was beginning to feel a bit frightened by Draco's behavior. He was acting so weird. Why wouldn't he just tell her
what was going on?

Draco lowered himself onto one knee, and then Ginny knew what was going on. She gasped, as Draco pulled out a velvet box
and opened it. There sat a beautiful ring.

"Ginny, you mean so much to you and I never want to lose you. Will you marry me?"

Ginny pulled Draco towards her and kissed him. "Yes, I'll marry you. Draco, I love you so much…"

Draco silenced her as he kissed her over and over again. Ginny was going to become Ginny Malfoy. She and Draco were
getting married…

Everything was going to work out. They both knew it.

*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*---*

Harry had apparated, and he landed a few feet before Hermione's apartment. He started to run, not believing what was
happening. He was free to date Hermione. The two of them could be together…

Harry ran right into Hermione's door and started pounding on it, ignoring the side of his head that was hurting from the
impact. Oh, Hermione had to be in the house… she had to.

A few minutes later, Hermione opened the door. Her eyes were bloodshot, and she nearly jumped at the sight of Harry. It
was obvious that she wasn't expecting him to come over ever again.

Harry didn't have time to explain. He just crushed his lips against Hermione's, the passion growing between the two of
them. He was never going to let her go…

He broke apart from her and whispered, "I'm not getting married to Cho." Hermione's face broke into a smile, and the two
of them hugged for what seemed like forever.

"I thought I'd never be with you again," Hermione muttered, closing the gap between her and Harry's lips.

"You thought wrong," Harry answered. He promised himself that he'd never leave Hermione again. They were going to have a
fresh start.

"I love you." Hermione wrapped her arms around Harry's neck, kissing him zealously, "I never want to leave you."

They were so involved with each other that they barely heard the doorbell. Hermione sprung away from Harry, an odd,
confused look on her face.

"Who could it be?" Hermione wondered, "I wasn't expecting anyone today."

Harry shrugged, and Hermione opened the door. There stood Ron, looking down and very uncomfortable. Harry felt something
surge through him, but soon realized that it wasn't anger or jealousy, it was… loneliness. Regret. Harry had to admit to
himself that he had missed Ron. Although Hermione was a great friend, there were some things that only a guy would
understand.

"What are you doing here?" Harry finally asked flatly, avoiding Ron's glance. He couldn't give Ron the satisfaction of
knowing that Harry had missed him.

"I…I'm sorry," Ron mumbled, finally looking up at the two of them, "Sorry I got so jealous, mate. I just can't lose both
my best friends over a fight."

"Oh, Ron…" Hermione was on the verge of tears. She nearly suffocated him as she pulled him into a hug. "I've missed you,
too. We both have."

Harry nodded. He stepped up towards Ron as Hermione moved away from Ron. Harry cleared his throat. "Uh, it'll be nice
having you around again, Ron," Harry finally said, giving Ron a small smile. Ron smiled, and Harry could tell things
were okay between the two of them.

"By the way," Ron added, still looking slightly uncomfortable, "I'm going out with Luna now. She's really changed."

"Loony Lovegood?" Harry asked in disbelief. "You're dating Loony?"

"Don't call her that," Ron responded defensively. Harry and Hermione just looked at each other and laughed.

"I'm glad this worked out," Hermione told them softly, smiling. Harry nodded in agreement.

"So, er did things work out between the two of you?" It was obvious Ron was making an effort to ask this question. Harry
realized that Ron probably wasn't totally over his breakup yet. It would take him a little more time.

"I don't know, has it?" Harry asked, grinning at Hermione. Hermione lifted her lips to meet Harry's, and Ron smirked.

"I'll catch up with you guys tomorrow," he told them, "Call me, okay?"

He didn't wait for their response. Instead, he turned around and left. Harry noticed that a certain blonde was waiting
for him outside that looked remarkably like Luna Lovegood. Harry smiled slightly. They were going to work it out.

"So, where were we?" Hermione asked playfully.

Hermione moved closer to Harry, but hit something that was in his pocket. She moved away by instinct, and then stuck her
hand in his pocket. She pulled out the box that held the ring.

Harry took it from her hand and opened it, his heart thumping. He slid the ring on her finger and kissed Hermione.
Hermione held up her hand and examined the ring in the light.

"You're beautiful," Harry breathed, "Will you spend your life with me?"

Hermione's delicate lips broke out into a smile. She hugged Harry, her pulse racing. "Yes, Harry…"

They kissed some more, and then Harry breathed, "Is everything going to work out this time?"

Hermione nodded. She pulled Harry into a hug, and Harry wrapped his arms around her waist. "It's going to work out for
real this time. I promise."

As they sealed it with a kiss, Harry knew that was one promise Hermione was going to be able to keep.

A/N: … and it's over. ): But don't cry too much, because there will be a sequel… since who Capella's father is isn't
totally resolved.

Sequel Title: Sun-Kissed Daisies

So the sequel takes place 20 years from this story. All of the couples are married and their children are around 16-17.
When Ron gets promoted to Minister of Magic, he takes all of the families to Palm Springs for vacation. Will love
blossom for the next generation of 'Harry Potter?'

Yeah, I am writing a better summary -_____-

But please, please read it. It's not going to be as much angst it'll be more romance/drama/humor. I think you guys will
love it.

Just a few questions you guys can answer (if you want) in a review:

-

What was your favorite part of the story?

-

What did you think of this story?

-

What do you think of the sequel idea?

Thank you for reading this story and pleasee stick around for the sequel. It'll be up in about 2 weeks. Thanks SO much
and PLEASE REVIEW.

Leave me one last review for this story <3

& read my other stories.

Love you guys

-- H/Hr Love

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