Harry Potter and the Rings

A/N: Thanks to all of you who have taken the time to read. J. K. Rowlings is the owner of Harry Potter and like, but OCs are mine and mine alone. The OCs will have somewhat of a basis from the books, but they are OCs so bare with me. The title will be explained later in the book, when the OCs come more into play. I'm trying to post about every day, so I'll be up to where I'm currently writing in about two weeks. Thanks and Read and Review.

Chapter 3:

The Welcoming Committee

The sun had barely risen when Harry parked his bike. His eyes were blood shot and his visor was covered with bugs. He was cold and felt like he could use a good hot shower. His shirt and pants were filthy and his jacket was frayed at the ends. His legs were cramped and his arms felt stiff. He could barely walk to the door, let alone open it.

Finally getting the door open, Harry walked inside, still stiff and sore. Trying to get up the stairs was going to be a pain. But before he even got to the stairs, he saw Hermione, Tonks and Lupin sitting in the kitchen. Lupin had a small smile on his face, but the two ladies looked extremely mad.

“Shit,” Harry said as Hermione started to yell at him and chase him to his room. He ran up the stairs and quickly into his room, slamming the door behind him. He could her screams through the door. He sat down at the bed and stared at the door waiting for her or someone to come in. He took off his glasses and fell on top of the covers. The scent of the woods flowed through him as he relaxed, happy that he wasn't on the bike anymore. He fell asleep to a brown-eyed girl in his dreams.

“Harry?” A concerned voice seemed to say. He looked up, groggily at the door. Someone was standing there, but he couldn't tell who it was. He grabbed his glasses and slid them on. He could see Hermione standing in the doorway.

“Hello.” Harry calmly said. He didn't want to upset her again. He moved to the side of the bed closest to the door.

“Where did you go?” She asked, not moving from the doorway.

“I just rode around. Stopped somewhere for dinner and then came home.” Harry said to her.

“Why did you go?” He could see the concern in her eyes and turned his head away from her. He could still feel them burning though him.

“Because I needed some time to myself, and I needed to think about some things.” Harry said getting off his bed. “I'm going to work on the ballroom, can we finish this later?” Harry said starting to walk away.

“But it's finished.” Hermione said, making him stop. He looked back up at her then quickly ran down the stairs to the room. As much as he wanted the job to be done, he liked working in there. Helped him keep his mind of her. But when he got to the ballroom, he fell to his knees.

The ceiling was clean, the floors shined, and the walls had been repainted. Everything had its place and everything in its place. He could make out the angels and clouds on the ceiling now. The walls held beautiful murals, but he didn't care. Two weeks of work and than a quick swish of the wand and the job was done. Hermione walked up behind him, talking softly.

“I found a spell that would clean it up right away. I asked Lupin to perform it.” Hermione said. “I thought it would help you.” Harry looked back at her then turned his gaze to the ground. This was his project, his work, and she comes in and finished it for him.

“Hermione,” he stood up but didn't look at her. He kept his back to her and stared at the floor. “I knew of the spell. If I wanted to use the spell, I would've but I didn't.” He turned to look at her. “And what gave you the right to finish my project?”

“I'm sorry.” She said is less than a whisper.

“You're sorry, great you're sorry.” Harry said, throwing his hands in the air. “Hermione, do you know why I started to work on this?” She shook her head. “Because I needed the release, needed to do something to take my mind off all of the problems in my life. And this was much better than my last one. Next time you want to help me, don't bother.” He began to walk out of the room. He hadn't raised his voice, but he got his point across. She was sobbing as passed her. “When Dumbledore asks where I am, tell him I went back to my first project.” Harry said looking at her.

“I'm sorry Harry.” She whispered as he left her in the room.

Harry slowly walked up to his room, disregarding Lupin and Tonks who were making breakfast. He didn't bother talking to Ron as he went up the stairs. Harry went to his room, shut and locked the door. He then took out his notebooks and got his books.

He began to work on his physics project again. It had been about two weeks since he had worked on it, and now it was his only release. Dumbledore may kill him, but it was better than the pain in his gut every time he saw Hermione with Ron.

“Harry.” He didn't move from the desk. He didn't even look up from the book he was reading. “Harry, she said she was sorry.” He thought it was Ron's voice, but he didn't care. “You can't stay in there forever.”

“Watch me.” Harry yelled back. He hadn't look up from the book. He needed the release from the world and if it was going kill, he didn't care. Finishing the notes from the book, Harry placed it on the ground and got another one. This was very important to him, but even this didn't get his mind away from Hermione anymore. He slammed his fist down on the desk in frustration.

“Why?” He whispered. “Why did I make her cry? She was only trying to help me.” He looked back at the door, fighting the urge to apologize to her. He went back to work, but couldn't work as well as he did before he started on the ballroom.

Still it helped him a bit. It took his mind off of Voldemort and Hogwarts, but not Hermione. Somehow she still crept into his mind every time he looked up from page or changed books. Harry kept at it though, he worked though her and tried to get as much as he could. He went back to his normal habits. Barely eating, sleeping only when he was completely exhausted and only exiting the room to use the bathroom. He didn't talk to anyone, and that was the way he liked. He lost count of the days he spent in the room. He had come close to finishing his final notebook with the final book when there was another knock on his door.

“Harry,” it was Ron's voice. Harry was surprised that he was still around. “You've got to come out mate.” Harry figured he was right but didn't say anything. “Hermione hasn't spoken since you locked yourself in there. She locked herself in her room, and hasn't come out except for dinner and lunch. Frankly it sucks because I had a date planned for few days ago.” Harry felt the pain in his gut hit again, this time the hardest it had ever been. He fell off his chair and slowly climbed back on. He had never heard of someone being this hurt from jealousy. “Hey you okay?”

“Yeah I'm fine.” Harry called back. His head was throbbing from the fall. He quickly went over what Ron said. Why should she be so distressed over him? “Is Hermione in her room?”

“Yeah, she-”

“Did she lock the door?”

“No, but-” Harry opened the door and walked over to Hermione's room. Ron looked surprised at this. “What are you going to do?” Harry didn't bother to answer.

“Hermione, it's me Harry.” He said through the door when he didn't get an answer. “Can I talk to you?” When he didn't get an answer, he spoke again. “Then listen. I'm sorry Hermione. I'm sorry that I yelled at you when you tried to do something nice for me. I just had a lot going through me head at the time, and had a little rage pent up and didn't mean to take it out on you.” He turned to walk back to his room, but was stopped by Ron.

“So why did you have all that rage?” Ron asked.

“I don't know,” Harry lied. He knew perfectly, Ron had Hermione and all Ron cared about was a stupid date. He went back into his room, but didn't close the door. Ron stood there for a moment or two, and then left him alone. Harry returned to his notebook, copying an equation. It was one of the last things that he needed, and then he would give it to Dumbledore on the first day of school. He leaned back in the chair as relaxed. For the first time, his arm was killing him. He began to rub it as he closed the book and put the notebook on a stack of the others.

“Harry?” A small voice said. He turned to see Hermione standing in his doorway. He got out of his chair and began to walk closer to her, but stayed a few yards away.

“Hermione, I'm sorry for what I said.” He said looking at her. Her eyes were red and puffy. Her hair was a mess and in a large fuzzy pony tail. But she still looked gorgeous. “You were trying to help me, and I didn't thank you for it. Thank you.” He gave her a soft smile as she looked up at him.

“Harry, you shouldn't be apologizing to me. I should be apologizing to you.” She said stepping closer. “I shouldn't have done that without your permission. You had everything under control.” He gave her a soft smile as she looked at him. He realized how cute she looked as tried to apologize.

“Listen; forget it. Alright?” She nodded. “I have one more thing to say.” She looked up at him, her honey eyes piercing him. Those beautiful eyes. “I would like your help when ever you offer it.” He held out his hand for her. “Friends?” She looked at it, and Harry was waiting for her to take it. But he was surprised to find a pair of hands around his neck. She was crying again. “Please stop crying, I hate it when you cry. Makes me feel like I did something wrong.” He heard he whisper a soft `thank you' and got a peck on the cheek then she let go. She ran back to the doorway, gave him one more look then hurried back to her bedroom. He thought that her cheeks were bright red and heard a giggle as she left.

“Please, don't let her fall in love with me.” He whispered softly when he heard her door close. “It would break Ron's heart.” He started to put away the rest of his books and arranged his notebooks in the order he wrote them.

“Harry?” He turned to see Lupin standing in the doorway.

“What does I guy have to do to get some privacy?” Harry said, slightly chuckling. He had enough privacy for a lifetime and wouldn't mind the company right now. Lupin laughed slightly too. “Anything I can do for you?”

“Yeah, tell me why you left the funeral in such a rush?” Lupin said. Harry sat down on the chair, his head in his hands.

“You want the truth or what I'm going to tell everyone?” Harry said, looking up.

“The truth, but I think I can guess it.” Lupin said, shutting the door behind him. “You like Hermione, but she is with Ron. Right?” Harry nodded.

“I don't want them to get hurt.” Harry said looking at the floor. “I don't want her to get hurt. If she is any where near me, there is the chance that Voldemort will attack her to get to me.” Lupin didn't say anything, just nodded. “Besides, she's happy with Ron, and that's what I really care about.” Harry got that off his chest, he turned to Lupin. “How did you know?”

“It's kinda obvious, Harry. When you look at her, I can tell that you really don't want to turn away.” Lupin said with a smile. “And what Moody told me, confirmed it.”

“Moody knows too?” Harry said. “How many people know?”

“Dumbledore and McGonagall of course. A few of the other teachers, Tonks and Sirius knew. In fact he was the one to point it out to me.” Lupin said, laughing a bit. Harry was shocked; so many people knew that he was in love with his best friend. “Don't worry Harry, we've kept it quiet.”

“Thanks.” Harry mumbled. They knew and didn't tell him that they knew.

“One more thing Harry,” Lupin said to him. “I think you forgot an important date.” Harry immediately thought that he forgot Hermione's birthday, but remembered that it wasn't until September 15^th. “No, it's not Hermione's.” Lupin said, getting a large blush out of Harry. “You forgot your own birthday.” Harry laughed at this. Lupin was right, he had forgotten his birthday. “So when ever you're ready, just come down and we'll celebrate.” Lupin opened the door and was about to leave but Harry stopped him.

“I have one question for you.”

“And what would that be?”

“Why didn't you try to stop me this time?” Harry said. “I mean you were so worried about me when I first did this, but now…”

“Now Tonks and I knew that this was about you and Hermione, and we let it run its course.” Lupin said with a smile. Harry told Lupin would be ready tomorrow. Lupin left to get the things ready for the next day.

Harry relaxed on his bed after he had finished his work. His mind went back to when Hermione gave him a peck on the cheek. He brought his hand up to his cheek, touching where she kissed him. It was still warm. He let his hand fall back to his side, remembering his promise to himself. “Whatever makes Hermione happy and she is safe.”

The ceiling began to change into the night sky, with the stars shining. He couldn't help but think of how Hermione's eyes did it too. “Breathe in, breathe out.” Harry whispered. “Take one day at a time.”

He watched the sky as the stars changed. He recognized the constellations and even noticed a few planets. The scent of the woods flowed through the room again, and he slowly drifted into a deep sleep. The beautiful woman appeared again to him. Soon the black-haired lion was there allowing the beautiful woman to pet it.

* * * * *

The next few days were alright. When they finally celebrated Harry's birthday, the best gift obviously came from Hermione. She had given him a small musical box that played him a lullaby and a Muggle book. The strangest thing was that the music box played the same song that his mother used to sing to him. How he knew, he didn't but this was the first gift that really reminded him of his childhood with his parents. That one year spent with them, and this brought some of it back. When she gave it to him and when he listened to the melody, he was speechless. It was a little song, written by a Muggle. But as he heard the melody fill the room, he felt like his mother was singing to him again. The only problem was he couldn't remember the words to the song.

The book was Beauty and the Beast. He could remember his father reading it to him and he could hear his father's voice reading each word. It was about a beautiful woman falling in love with a man who was cursed to being a beast. Their love freed the man from the curse. Seeing the book, reminded him that it was his favorite.

He received other presents, but none as good as Hermione's. Ron gave him a bag of various candy and the twin's concoctions. Lupin gave him a book called Enchanted Enchantments. It was about the creation of magical items and Tonks gave him the starting set for it. Hagrid sent him another book, but this one wasn't as dangerous as the first one. It was written by Ron's brother, Charlie, about the growth and care of dragons. Knowing Hagrid, there was without doubt dragons in the near future for Hogwarts. Dumbledore sent him a book for the DA, or Dumbledore's Army/Defense Association, along with a letter. Harry was the teacher of it and he figured that Dumbledore wanted him to continue teaching it. In fact, the letter said that he was going to be getting small salary for teaching it. It wasn't much, just hiring him for this small teaching job. Harry taught them well enough the year before, and was going to continue doing it for the school.

Harry spent the next few days working on a lesson plan for DA. He decided that he was going to stay here for the rest of the summer, so Hermione and Ron went and got the rest of there belongings. Lupin and Tonks left to get some more groceries and other necessities, so he had the house to himself for a while. He had almost finished on his first lesson plan when Kreacher walked into his room.

“Yes, Kreacher?”

“Sir, Kreacher was wondering if he would be able to take a few of the boxes from Master.” The house elf stood there looking at Harry.

“I'm not done with them yet, but after I'm done.” Harry said, returning to his work. He was awaiting a snide remark, but it never came.

“Thank you sir, Master is most kind.” Kreacher said bowing. “Does Master want anything?” Harry shook his head. He was still waiting for the snide remark.

“No Kreacher, thank you anyway.” Harry said. Kreacher bowed again then left the room. Harry was wondering what had made him be so nice when the doorbell rang, promptly waking up the `sleeping lion' in the hall. Harry quickly ran down the stairs and opened the door. Hermione was waiting for him there with her trunk. “Hello.”

“Hello.” She said. The screams of Sirius's mother could be heard now, echoing through the halls. They suddenly stopped, like when someone covered her portrait. Kreacher came down the hall, walking to them.

“Master, I have covered the Mistress's portrait.” Kreacher bowed low.

“Thank you Kreacher.” Harry said, unsure of what to think. “Good job.” Kreacher bowed again then left. He turned back to Hermione, who was smiling. “What?” Harry said, dragging her trunk into the hallway and closing the door.

“What did you do?” Hermione said still smiling.

“I didn't do anything. He just became nice all of a sudden.” Harry said to her. She was wearing a tight cut-off shirt and low-rise jeans. He couldn't help but look at her for a moment. She looked beautiful or better than beautiful. He decided on the latter.

“What?” Hermione said, putting her hands on her hips.

“Nothing.” Harry lied. She gave him a smile that he couldn't refuse.

“It's not nothing, now tell me.” Harry shook his head and quickly changed the subject, but she wouldn't know.

“I want to thank you again for your gift.” Harry said to her. It wasn't the truth but it was something that was on his mind.

“It was nothing.” Hermione said sitting down on her trunk.

“No it was something. The greatest something that anyone has every done for me.” Harry said to her. “Hermione, that music box played a song that my mother sang to me. My father used to read me the same book.” She looked at him in shock. He sat down next to her. “I know you didn't know that, but I don't care.” He looked into her eyes. “That was the most generous, kindest, greatest gift I have ever gotten. I don't think I'll ever forget it.” Her eyes began to tear up, and she wiped them with her hand. “I'm sorry for making you cry.” He stood back up. “But I'm not sorry for telling you that. How you knew how to get that Hermione, I'll never know, but thank you again for my best birthday ever.Now stop crying and get off that trunk. I have to get this up to your room.” Harry said. She obliged with him and he lifted the trunk with ease. She was a little shocked as he carried it up the stairs. But Harry was more surprised. He was never able to lift something this heavy, and yet it felt light in his arms.

After he had the trunk in her room for the next few weeks, he went into the kitchen for something to eat. He hadn't had anything to eat yet, and wasn't sure if she had. She was waiting for him with a book, which he had no idea where she got it or wanted to know for that matter. She was sitting in the kitchen reading and twirling her hair with one hand, turning the pages with another. He couldn't help but think of how cute she looked doing that. But the idea of her being with Ron came just as fast, and he was hit with another pain in the gut. It was only then did she notice he was there.

“Harry, you okay?” Harry stood up straighter. He nodded as he walked over to the fridge slowly. He was breathing in and out with each step. Hermione gave him a weird look. “What are you doing?”

“I breathe in, and breathe out.” Harry said to her. He took out some meat from the fridge, as well as some cheese and lettuce. He took some bread out from the cupboard. “And I put one foot in front of the other. Take a day at a time.” She giggled at his words as he made himself a sandwich. “Would you like one?” He said to her, still with his back to her.

“Like what?” She said. He guessed she was totally engrossed in her book. He put the sandwich he made for himself on a plate, and slid it in front of her. It was only then did she look up. “Harry, this is yours.” She said pushing the plate away from her. He just shook his head.

“If my guess is right, you've been so engrossed in that book that your last meal was the one before you got the book, right?” She began to blush as he put the plate in front of her again. “You need to eat.”

“You didn't when you were locked up in your room,” Hermione said, apprehensively. He shot a look at her, causing her to frown, and then smiled at her. Her face lit up like he had never seen before.

“And I got yelled at by Dumbledore.” Harry said sitting down at the other end of the table. She laughed at this then looked at him.

“Why didn't you make yourself a sandwich?” She said, looking at the one in front of her.

“Because I forgot that Lupin and Tonks went out to get more food. One because Ron is coming.” He got a laugh out of her. “And two, because that was the last of the meat, lettuce and cheese.” She looked down at her plate again. Her gaze than turned to him, with concern in her eyes.

“Harry, you take it.” Hermione pushed the plate toward him. He shook his head and pushed it back. “Harry, you've eaten less than me.”

“And I've gotten by.” Harry said to her. She had huge honey eyes, filled with concern. She looked so beautiful and he figured she wasn't taking no for an answer. He got up from the table and got a knife. He grabbed the plate and cut the sandwich in half. He purposely cut one piece larger than the other, and was going to take the smaller of the two, but Hermione seemed to have wanted that one too. Their hands touched, and Harry could feel the warmth coming off her hand. He quickly pulled it back, with his half-sandwich. Hermione pulled back as well, but didn't look at the plate, rather at Harry. Her eyes seemed to be searching for something. He pushed the plate toward her, not removing his gaze from her.

“Thank you.” She barely whispered. She took the sandwich, but gave him back the plate.

“Anything for you.” Harry said, putting the plate and knife in the sink. He sat back down at the table, looking at her again. He really wanted to break the awkward silence. “So what are you reading?”

“Oh,” Hermione said, breaking from her gaze. Harry could tell that she was blushing as she looked down at the book. “A book on Merlin.” She said flipping the page. Harry was watching her, as she went back to reading and twirling her hair. She finally gave a frustrated sigh. “Can you finish your homework or something?”

“Done.” Harry said smiling at her. Again she had a shocked look.

“What?”

“I've been done for a few weeks now.” Harry said, chuckling. “I wouldn't have been able to work on the ballroom if I didn't.” She was still shocked. “Want to see it?” He said, reading her mind. She nodded. He ran up the stairs and grabbed his Potions homework and brought it to her. He also brought down the book that Hermione got him. He sat down and read the book as she went over his homework.

“Harry, this is great.” Hermione said putting it down. “I've been trying to get Ron to do his since the start of break. Amazing, Harry. I'd never have taken you as someone to understand and use Muggle theories in their essays. ”

“Any where near what you did?” Harry said, chuckling again. He put his feet up on the table, and leaned back, only to get them hit off by Hermione. He nearly fell of the chair, but he saw that she was blushing.

“As a matter of fact,” she said, putting down his homework, “you are about half a scroll away from my Potions essay.” She blushed as he looked up at her. Harry wanted to change the subject.

“You know that I'm a teacher now?” Harry said to her as he put down his book.

“Yes, you're still teaching the DA right?” Hermione said, putting her book down too.

“Yeah, but now I'm getting paid for it.” Harry said. At first she seemed happy for him, and then she looked unhappy. “What's wrong?”

“Nothing.” Hermione said, burying her head back in the book. He quickly thought about it, cursing himself and Dumbledore for not giving her credit.

“Look Hermione,” Harry said, trying to get her to look up. “Dumbledore should've offered it to both of us.”

“No, its okay, you can have it.” She said, not moving her book.

“No, it's not okay.” Harry said. “You helped me so much last year with the class that you should get some of the credit too, if not all of it.” An idea stuck him, and he quickly ran up the stairs. Hermione deserved most of the credit. He grabbed a parchment and a pen.

“What are you doing?” Hermione asked as he quickly wrote a letter to Dumbledore.

“I'm telling Dumbledore that if he is going to pay me, he is going to have to pay you as well.” Harry said as Hedwig flew into the room. He tied it too her leg and she flew off to Dumbledore. Hermione was sitting shocked; her nose was no longer buried in the book.

“You didn't have to…” She stared to say, but her voice trailed off.

“Yes I did.” Harry said looking at her. “Hermione, you helped me with this last year. You're the one who helped get this off the ground. You deserve this pay more than I do.” Harry picked up his book and began to read it. Hermione didn't remove her stare from him until the doorbell rang. Harry got up from his seat and promptly went to the door.

Ron was waiting for him with his trunk. He looked oddly at him before entering the house. “Is Hermione here?”

“Yeah, she got here a few minutes ago.” Harry said, leading Ron to the kitchen. Hermione got up from her chair and gave Ron a hug when he entered. Harry felt the pain in his gut again, but didn't say anything. Hermione must've noticed his face, because she asked him if he was alright. He shrugged his shoulders and went to get his book off the table. He quickly changed the subject.

“Ron, did your brother really write a book.” Ron nodded. His face was red from it.

“Yeah, he published at the beginning of the summer.” Ron said. “Mom and Dad were so surprised when they put it on the book list for Hogwarts.”

“So what is it for?” Hermione said. She looked at Harry instead of Ron, through neither of the boys noticed.

“Who knows?” Harry said, sitting down again. He began where he left off, but really couldn't read it. Ron had taken a seat next to Hermione, and put an arm around her. They were talking softly and he shouldn't have cared, but it hurt him to see them together. The pain in his gut hit again, but he tried not to show it. They were happy together, and that made him happy, didn't it? “I'm going go up to my room, call me when Moony and Tonks get back.” Harry grabbed his Potions homework and left Ron looking happy, and a worried Hermione.

He slowly walked up the stairs, trying to forget the sight he saw. Ron had his arm around Hermione. The pain rattled his inside again. He was his best friend, but why did he feel jealous? They were happy together, and he…he was okay with it, right?

Harry walked into his room and put his Potions homework away. He picked up the music box, and turned the key a few times. The melody filled the room, and he lay back on the bed soaking it in. “I breathe in, I breathe out. Put one foot in front of the other. Take one day at a time.” He whispered, picking up his book. He read it for quite sometime, well, not really reading, just looking at pages and turning them. He couldn't get his mind off of Hermione, but as long as she was safe and happy, he was happy.

“Master, sir?” Kreacher was standing in the door. “Mr. Lupin and Miss Tonks is here now, sir. They asked that Kreacher gets you for them.”

“Thank you Kreacher.” Harry said to him. “You know, if you like, you can have one of the boxes.” He was expecting the house-elf to be ecstatic, but Kreacher shook his head.

“Master is too kind, but Kreacher doesn't wish to have anymore of Mistress's things.” Kreacher said looking something like sad. “Kreacher doesn't want anything of Mistress's.”

“Why?” Harry said. “You loved her last year.”

“But Kreacher didn't know Master well then.” Kreacher said. “Master is most kind and generous person. Much better than Mistress and Master Black.”

“Thank you Kreacher.” Harry said to the house elf. He stood up and walked to the door. “If you ever need something, just tell me.”

“Thank you Master.” Kreacher said bowing, then leaving in the opposite direction of Harry. Harry walked down the stairs, still amazed at Kreacher. The elf had hated him the previous year, but something must've changed him. Harry figured if he treated Kreacher kindly, like Dumbledore said Sirius should've, then maybe the elf will be nicer. Lupin and Tonks were putting away the groceries, as Hermione and Ron were still talking. He had his arm wrapped around her, and Harry tried not to look at them as he walked over to Lupin.

“Harry, good to see you.” Lupin said as he put some things in the cupboard. Tonks still had the black hair. “Mind helping us?”

“No, not at all.” Harry said, as he began to put several boxes of cereal in a cupboard. He heard Hermione and Ron talking behind him.

“We really should help them.” She said to Ron.

“They have everything under control.” Ron said to her. Harry took a chance and glanced at them as he got some more dry goods. Ron was smiling like he was the luckiest man in the world (which he was) and Hermione was looking rather concerned about something. “I don't think they need out help.”

“That's beside the point.” Hermione said, giving him a stern look. Harry went back to putting the boxes away, but kept his ears open. “People think its kind when you help them out.”

“But they don't need our help.” Ron said to her. “Besides, there almost done.”

“And they would've been done a lot faster if we helped.” Hermione said to him again. She turned away from him, crossing her arms on her chest.

“I'm sorry, Herms.” Ron said to her. “Let me make it up to you.” He said, with pleading eyes. “How about I take you out to dinner?” Harry felt his insides knot again, but finished putting the boxes away.

“That's how you always try to apologize.” Hermione said to him. She was still looking sternly at him, but softened up to him. “Alright, I'll go.” Ron gave her a quick hug, and tried to give her a peck on the cheek, but she turned her face away. Ron looked rejected when she did this, but quickly got over it. Harry figured that she had done this before to him.

“Harry, you hungry?” Tonks asked after she finished putting something in the refrigerator.

“Yeah.” Harry had sat done on the other side of Hermione.

“Alright, how about the rest of you?” Tonks turned to Hermione and Ron, who still were having a `personal' conversation. “Want me to whip something up?” At the sound of food, Ron's face quickly turned away from Hermione. Hermione looked like it was something that he normally did. Harry was starting to resent how Ron was treating her. Hermione deserved better than that. But he didn't want to say anything because they were his best friends.

“Thank you.” Harry said as she started to cook. “Anything I can do to help?” Tonks shook her head.

“Thank you anyway Harry.” She said with a smile. Hermione gave Ron another stern look and a smile to Harry, but didn't say anything.

“So what are we having?” Hermione said to her as Lupin started to pull out plates and utensils.

“I don't know.” Tonks said taking out a book. The door bell rang and Harry got up to get it, but Kreacher walked pasted the doorway and allowed whoever it was to enter. Moody stood in the doorway as Kreacher introduced him. Moody had a large packet in his hand as he sat down at the table.

“Thank you Kreacher, would you like to stay dinner?” Harry offered.

“Thank you sir,” Kreacher said bowing. “Master is most kind, but Kreacher must decline sir.”

“That's alright,” Harry said with a smile. He got a weird look from Ron, but a smile from Hermione. “Maybe another time.”

“Thank you sir.” Kreacher said, bowing again.

“I'll bring you up some food,” Harry said as the elf left. Kreacher thanked Harry once more than left.

“Are you crazy or something?” Ron asked him after Kreacher left. “Talking to him like that?”

“He just needs to know he is appreciated.” Harry said shrugging his shoulders. “Besides, he has feelings, and how would you like to be treated like most house elves are?” Ron shrunk back in his chair, but Hermione was beaming at him.

“Harry, I'm so proud of you.” She said from across the table. “You finally understand.”

“Yeah,” Harry said, turning his attention to Moody, who listening carefully. He had an awkward smile on his face, and his magical eye was locked on Hermione while his eye was looking at Harry. “So what brings you here?”

“I understand you meet one of my nephews.” Moody said with a smile. Harry had completely forgotten about John.

“Yeah, he sure was a lifesaver.” Harry said. Hermione and Ron gave him an odd look. He quickly explained what had happened, at the restaurant, but left out what he told John. “How is he?”

“Slowly making his way to Hogwarts.” Moody said, laughing a bit. “He walking there, you know?” Hermione's jaw nearly hit the table.

“But it's…it's…it's…” Hermione stuttered.

“A long trip.” Moody said laughing again. “Says he does it because it helps clear the mind and the soul.” He shrugged after he said this. “Also, he asked when you birthday was and got you a present.” Moody handed Harry the poorly wrapped object, whatever it was.

The paper was tied together at the top by a single piece of string. He carefully untied it, unsure of what was inside. After he had taken the paper off, he was surprised to find a guitar and a book underneath it. Along with a book and a card. He took the card, not noticing Hermione's expression. He carefully read it.

Dear Harry Potter,

I figured you would need something to get your mind off of the important stuff (wink, wink), so I got you this. Music is a great way to escape, just as get as book. But with music, you can share it. Share it with the people you love the most (wink, wink). The book will teach you the basics, but you have to pick up the rest on your own. No book in the world, will teach you how to feel the music. That is my finally words to you: feel the music, flow with it, and respect it. See you at Hogwarts. Still have no idea of what my job is going to be.

By the grace of God,

Jonathon Nathan Gregory Alastor Moody

Harry put the note back down and looked around the table. Lupin and Tonks where putting plates of a roost beef of some kind in front of everyone. Moody was busy talking to Ron about something. Hermione was staring at him and he could tell she looked ready to cry.

“What's wrong?” Harry asked.

“Nothing.” She said to him, not blinking.

“With you it's never nothing.” Harry said to her.

“How do you like the gift?” Hermione said, with a pain in her voice.

“It's great, but-” She cut him off.

“I hope you like it.” She said turning away. He felt the hate and sadness in her voice. He felt bad, knowing that he hurt her feelings.

“Hermione, you didn't let me finish.” He put his hand on her shoulder, trying to get her to turn around. “I was going to say `it was great but it doesn't hold a flame to yours.” She turned to face him, tears in her eyes again. How he wanted to wipe those tears away.

“What? The music box and book?” Lupin said as he placed a plate in front of Harry. Lupin had taken the guitar and the other thing away so he could he. Harry nodded and looked back at Hermione.

“Reminds me of mum and dad.” Harry said. He picked up his fork, but didn't eat. Instead, he started to twirl it around his fingers.

“Yeah, now that you mention it,” Lupin said thinking for a moment. “Your mother did sing you that song.” Harry's face lit up, as did Hermione. Ron was still talking to Moody, so he wasn't listening to them.

“Which song was it?” Harry asked hopefully. Hermione looked interested too, because she hadn't known which song it was either.

“I think it was called `Beauty and the Beast.'” Lupin said sat down, next to Tonks. “But it wasn't called that until the wizard who composed it went into the Muggle world and sold it to some cartoon company. The wizard had composed the melody especially for you.” Harry was shocked. He had dropped his fork on the plate. A song was written for him, and he was never told about it. “Your father knew the man and asked that the wizard right a song for you. On some nights, that song was the only thing that got you to sleep.” Lupin said chuckling. Harry looked over to Hermione to tell her again how much the gift meant to him, who was crying again.

“`Mione, I'm sorry.” Harry said to her. He felt even worse now that she was crying. “I'm sorry for making you cry.”

“You didn't make me cry.” She whispered. Ron had finally taken notice of her between the food on his plate and Moody. He put an arm around her, but she pulled away and ran up to her room. Ron shot Harry an angry look.

“I just told her that she gave me the best gift.” Harry said, picking up his fork. Ron still looked angry.

“What about my gift?” Ron said. The rest of the table was silent as Ron waited for an answer. Harry dropped his fork, breaking the silence

“Ron, the music box and book are the closest things I have to a memory of my parents when they were still alive.” Harry said to him. “My mother used to sing me that song, and my father used to read me that book. And damn it Ron, those two things where the real present.” He stood up and slammed his fist on the table, causing the plates to rattle. He pointed his finger at Ron as he spoke. “Not the music box or the book, but the memories. Hermione gave me back my memories of my parents. Not all of us had the luxury of growing up with parents. So I have to take the next best thing.” Harry excused himself from the table and went up to his room. He left Ron speechless and looking ashamed. Lupin, Tonks, and Moody all stared at Ron, wearing different expressions. Harry didn't care what they were; he was mad now, really mad at Ron. Ron could be so thick at times, it was infuriating.

Harry went up to his room, got the book and turned the music box. The melody filled the room as he read the book. He could hear his father's voice as he read, and could feel his mother gently rocking him. Damn Ron. Damn him. Why does he have to get everything? Everything that he ever wanted in a life. A loving family, a perfect girlfriend, people that loved him for how he was and not what he had done. And Ron always complained that Harry was the star. Well he could have his life. Harry didn't want it. He wished he could throw it all away and be a normal kid, with normal problems. Not a life with some evil wizard that wanted to kill him because there was a chance that Harry could defeat him.

A knock on his door drew him out of his mind. He figured that it was Ron coming to apologize. He walked over to the door and opened it. Hermione was standing there with a plate in her hand. She shoved it into his. She grabbed the collar and pulled his down so he was looking squarely in the eyes.

“Don't ever miss dinner again.” Hermione said forcefully, though it was said with much concern. She took the sandwich off the plate and shoved into his mouth before he could say anything. She stood there and watched him finished it. He felt kind of stupid doing this, but didn't say anything. He was actually surprised that she cared about him so much, that she would've gotten him a sandwich. After he had eaten the sandwich, she gave him a glass of milk to drink. He swallowed it all without saying anything. After he drank it, he was allowed to speak.

“Thank you.” Harry said to her. He was lucky that it was so dark, because he wouldn't have noticed her blushing. “But why did you bother? Dinner was only an hour go.” He heard a slight laugh, but it was genuine.

“Harry, dinner was several hours ago.” She said. By her words, Harry could tell she was blushing.

“Did you ever go and finish dinner?” Harry asked her.

“No,” she said.

“But you got something right?” Harry said to her. Even in the darkness, he could tell that she nodded. “Thata girl.” Harry said, without thinking. She giggled slightly. He shrugged it off. “Did Kreacher get something?” She nodded again. He remembered what had happened and began to replay it in his brain but still couldn't understand it. He decided that Hermione might tell him, if not he was the concerned friend. “So why did you leave dinner?”

“Oh,” Hermione said. “It doesn't matter.”

“Yeah it does.” Harry said to her. “You were crying.” Harry put a hand on her shoulder. “Was it something I said?”

“No,” she said bluntly. “Harry, don't worry about it.” She paused for a moment, then he felt her kiss his cheek. “Thank you for caring. Good night.”

“Good night, `Mione.” Harry barely whispered as she left him standing in the doorway. He walked back to his bed and took off everything but his boxers. The music box was still playing the lovely melody. He lay backed down on the bed, and relaxed. His hand went up to his cheek where she kissed him. It was warm and he could feel the red on it. No one, not even Cho had done that to him. He took off his glasses and tried to sleep, thinking of anything but Hermione. The dream of the brown haired maiden petting the black-haired lion was back, and the melodic notes of the lullaby fill the dream.

* * * * *

Harry awoke to something jumping onto of his bed. He thought it was probable Crookshanks and figured that Hermione was up. But when that something spoke to him, he quickly grabbed his glasses. Hermione was kneeling in front of him with a huge smile on her face and holding a letter in her hand. She was still in her pajamas, which looked great on her. Harry kicked himself before speaking to her.

“Morning.” Harry said to her.

“Harry, I got my O.W.L.S.” She said with excitement. He sat up and looked at her. Why hadn't she gone to Ron?

“Great, so how did you do?” Harry asked, even though he knew she had done well. Her smile was enough for him to guess. It was something he loved to see.

“I got mainly `Outstanding's.” She shoved the parchment into his hands. She was blushing as he looked at it. She was right; it was mainly `Outstanding's. The only classes she didn't get `Outstanding's in were Potions, Defense, and Astronomy. The only class that he beat her in was Defense. She beat him or matched in the rest, with the exception of Divinations. He got a `Poor' in that one, but his Patronus got him another point for a total of nine out of nine O.W.L.S. He didn't tell her this, just smiled at her. She had the most beautiful face and smile in the world. Again the pain, but it wasn't as bad as before. This time he was able to hide it from her.

“This is great Hermione.” Harry said handing it back to her. “Want to see what I got?” Harry offered. She nodded as he climbed out of his covers. Almost immediately, she giggled and turned bright red. “What?” She had her back turned.

“Could you at least put on some pants?” Hermione said, giggling again. He really didn't know what she was talking about.

“Why?” Harry said, grabbing his parchment with his O.W.L.S. He walked back to her, trying to hand it to her. But she wouldn't turn around.

“Because you sleep in your boxers,” she said. Her back was still turned to him and he looked down, realizing she was right.

“Sorry.” He said as he quickly put on the pair from the previous day. “Okay you can turn around.” He didn't bother to put on a shirt, and figured she wouldn't mind. When she turned, she was still blushing madly. “Here you go.” Harry walked over and handed her his parchment. She quickly looked over it then looked up at him. He was waiting for her to say something, but she gave him a hug, nearly pulling him down as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

“Congratulations.” She said as she let go. “This is amazing Harry. The only bad one was Divinations-”

“Which I'm dropping.” Harry said to her. She gave him a stern look, but quickly smiled.

“I was going to say that you don't need it.” Harry gave her a smile as she talked. He loved her voice, it was peaceful and soothing. “You get to change you classes this year for whatever your job is going to be.” She smiled at the fact that he knew.

“Hey Harry,” Ron said, walking into his room. He was still dressed in his pajamas. He stopped when he saw him and Hermione. “What's going on?” Ron said in the same tone as he talked to Harry the night before.

“Nothing, Hermione just showed me her O.W.L.S.” Harry said. The way Ron was speaking was what made him mad in the first place. He quickly grabbed some clothes for the day. “I'm going to leave you too alone, if that's alright.” Harry walked out of the room, not looking at Ron. Hermione was right behind him, but didn't leave his room. Instead she hit Ron upside the head. Harry saw it out of the corner of his eye as he went to the bathroom. He couldn't help but laugh as he showered and cleaned up for the day.

After he got out, Hermione went in right after him. Ron wasn't any where to be seen, so he went downstairs to see if breakfast had been served. Remus wasn't there, and neither was Tonks. There was a note, saying that they shouldn't leave the house or destroy anything. Harry quickly made himself some toast and grabbed his guitar and the book. He walked into the ballroom, shutting the door behind him. He didn't want to be disturbed right now, and needed some more time to clear out his thoughts about Hermione and Ron. They seemed so happy at some times, but at others… `That doesn't matter,' he thought as he sat down in the middle of the large room. `What matter is that Hermione is safe. She's safe, I'm happy.'

He looked through the book, going step-by-step it. He figured out how to play a few simple chords after a few minutes, and quickly picked up the rest of the book. He played the simply melodies of the book, then progressed to the harder songs. After a while, Ron and Hermione found him. He didn't notice them; he was too engrossed in the melodies and harmonies to hear them come in. It wasn't until Hermione tapped him on the shoulder that he knew that they were in the room.

“Hello.” Harry said turning around slightly.

“Harry, Ron wants to apologize for something.” Hermione said. Harry swiveled around to face them, but didn't stand up to look at Ron. Ron didn't move, and it wasn't until Hermione jabbed him in the side with her elbow did he speak.

“Harry, I'm sorry.” Ron said to him. “I know that anything that reminds you of your parents means a lot to you, and I'm sorry for overreacting.”

“Forget it.” Harry said to him. He really didn't want to talk to anyone right now.

“I'm sorr-”

“I said forget it.” Harry said standing up and looking Ron in the eyes. “What's said is said. You can't change the past, just prepare for the future. Remember that, and we'll both be better off.” He held out his hand to Ron. “Friends?”

“Friends.” Ron said shaking it. He had a large smile on his face, as did Hermione. He couldn't help but smile too. Yet he hadn't forgotten Ron's treatment toward him when he said Hermione gave him the best gift.

“Harry?” He heard Lupin's voice calling him.

“We're in here, Moony.” Harry said walking out of the ballroom with his guitar and book. Hermione and Ron where right behind him, holding hands. “Where did you two go?”

“To see Dumbledore about something.” Lupin said. Harry stared at him. “Alright, we where talking about the guard this year at Hogwarts.” Harry nodded as he took a seat at the table.

“So they well be around me basically all the time.” Lupin nodded. “Figured as much. So who is taking the job?”

“Me, Tonks, and Moody.” Lupin said. “We were the only ones that Dumbledore said we needed. I figured that he just wanted us because we're so close to you.”

“That's fine by me.” Harry said as Hermione and Ron took a seat. They were in their own private conversation. He hated it when they did that. “So who is going to be the DADA teacher this year?” He was trying to get them out of their own little world, and back into the real one. Apparently Hermione was more willing than Ron.

“What about-”

“Later.” Hermione said with a stern look to Ron. “Who is it?”

“All I know that it is some young woman.” Lupin said. “Her name was something that I couldn't catch or understand.”

`What's John going to teach then?' Harry thought to himself as Tonks came in. Today she had green eyes and purple hair.

“Hey,” she handed each of the trio a letter, presumable their school supply list.

“Why didn't they send this with our O.W.L.S.?” Hermione asked.

“Too many thing to send out at once. All of the other owls were being used, so I offered to take them and deliver them to you three.” Tonks said.

“Thank you.” Harry said before he opened. Ron had already torn off the envelope, and Hermione was carefully breaking the Hogwarts seal. He opened it up carefully as well, not wanting ruin the paper.

Dear Harry James Potter,

I wish to apologize in advance for this coming year. You may yet face your worst year yet Harry. This is why I recommend that you stay with Mr. Weasley and Miss Granger. They will help you kept it together. I trust that you have finished your project, though you did not over work. I am looking forward to reading it the first of September. It may be more help than you think.

Now onto more pleasant news. I have decided to allow you play Quidditch again if you so choose. Professor McGonagall sends her pleas that you will. As I have informed you that you will receive a small salary for DA, but you have requested that Miss Granger receive one as well. I happen to agree with you and she will receive the same salary as you for each lesson that you teach. I hope this is satisfactory.

I understand that you have meet Jonathon Moody. The man is bright and full of ideals, something that I wish he would bring to Hogwarts. I have asked him to teach the Dueling class that is offered here. I trust that you will be taking it. I also trust that you will be following in your father's footsteps and train as an Auror, which is why I have taken the liberty of signing you up for the N.E.W.T. S. course for Aurors. I hope this will help you. Care of Magical Creatures is not one of the classes, but I have signed you up for it anyway. I assumed that you would enjoy the class this year.

If you ever wish to discuss anything this year my door is always open to you. I have informed the staff that you will be allowed to come to my office at anytime you deem fit to talk about something. I must urge you that should you ever experience any dreams such as the ones you had last year, speak to me at once. I also must ask that you come to my office after the Sorting Ceremony, for there are a few things that we must discuss. I'm sorry that I can not tell you more than I already have, but it would be best if you and I talk face to face.

Your list of books has been included with this letter. I ask that you only show this Moony please. You may show the list to anyone.

Sincerely

Albus Dumbledore

Headmaster of Hogwarts

Sixth Year Booklist - Auror Class Course:

Transfiguration, Potions, Advanced Defense Against the Dark Arts, Charms, Dueling, Enchantments, Physical Education, Herbology, Ancient Ruins, Healing.

Extracurricular: Care of Magical Creatures

The Advanced Book of Spells (Grade 6)

By Bartholomew Heximus

Enchanted Enchantments

By Gladys D. Knyght

A Hitchhiker's Guide to Dragons and Dragon Breeding

By Charles Weasley

Ancient Runes: A Forgotten Study

By Louis N. Tyme

Deadliest Droughts and Antioxidant Antidotes

By Drew N. Draft

Defensive Measures: Advance Shields and Curses for Dueling

By U. B. Ready

Healing the Weak with a Strong Spirit

By Radney Medico

Larger than Life: Transfiguring Small Items into Larger Ones

By Petty Beliefs

Toxins and Relievers Found In Magical Plants

By Alden Aspirin

Supplies Needed:

I set of dress robes.

1 Weapon supplied by Ollivander's.

Harry put down the list after reading it and pick up the letter before anyone else could read it. He slid it into his pocket, finding the wallet and piece of paper from the motorcycle. He had forgotten about it and had wanted to talk to Lupin about it. He figured he'd talk to him about the letter and the map at the same time. Hermione broke his train of thought.

“Harry?” He looked up at her. She had a confused look on her face, where as Ron was looking disappointed.

“Yes.”

“Did Dumbledore sign you up for Care of Magical Creatures too?” She said.

“Yeah, said I thought it would be interesting this year.” Harry replied. “Hagrid probable knew, so sent me the book. If Dumbledore says it'll be fun, then it'll be fun.” He gave her a smile then turned to Ron, who still looked disappointed. “What's wrong?”

“I got none of the classes I wanted.” Ron said glumly. “I thought I did well on the O.W.L.S.”

“If you studied more-” Hermione started to say but he cut her off.

“I know, I know.” Ron said to her. “You don't have to keep reminding me.” Hermione just nodded her head then picked up her list again. She looked so excited about going back to Hogwarts, she was like a little school girl on her way to her first day of school. Harry thought she looked cute with that smile on her face.

“You can change you class courses.” Harry said to him, trying to cheer him up. “But you will probable have to work harder than you ever had in your life if you want to get the job you want.” Ron looked up at this. “That means you can't goof off as much as you did last year.”

“Oh.” Was all that he could get out.

“Just owl McGonagall and ask that your classes be changed.” Harry said to him. “But decide now if the job that they decided for you is not the one that you want, because if it is and you find out too late, it will take a long time getting back to that job.”

“Harry's right.” Hermione said. “You have a few days before we go get our books, but you better decide before then.” Hermione got up from the table and walked up the stairs to her room. Harry looked back down at the table, wanting to look at his list again, but it was gone.

“Hey Ron.” Harry said, looking under the table quickly. “You take my list?” He shook his head. He had gotten a parchment and quill from Lupin and writing something. “Where did it go then?”

“I don't know,” Ron said as he finished writing. “Ask Hermione if she's seen it.” Harry got up from the table and ran up the stairs to see if she had seen it. Her door was closed and he could hear humming behind it. He knocked twice and the humming stopped.

“Hermione?” Harry said before she opened the door. “Did you take my book list?” The door slowly opened and she stepped out.

“Yeah, sorry Harry must've picked it up with mine.” Harry gave her a smile.

“That's alright, `Mione.” Harry said as she handed him it. She was looking at the floor, but he couldn't help but see a slight pink tinge on her cheeks. He gave her a smile and she gave him one back. He felt the pain hit his gut again, but changed the subject before she could figure it out. “Ron's writing a letter. I think that he wants to change classes.”

“He would, wouldn't he?” Hermione said, not raising her gaze.

“Something wrong, `Mione?” Harry said using her nickname unconsciously. She shook her head and smiled at him.

“Thanks for caring Harry.” She said then went back into her room. He heard the humming beginning again, and recognized the song as the one from his music box. He walked back down the stairs to Ron who was tying a letter to Pig's foot. The small hyper owl took off and flew out of a window open in the room. Ron looked happier than when he left him.

“So you got you classes changed?” Harry said.

“Yeah, now I'm going to focus on Muggles, like my dad did.” Ron said with a smile. “I'm going to go tell Hermione about it.” Ron quickly ran out of the room and up the stairs. Harry was left alone with his guitar again. Just like how it was going to be so many times in the next few days.