Harry Potter H&Hr Fluff Collection

Author's Note: As promised, Season 2 of Fluff Collection will start sooner! After last season's finale I decided to start Season 2 with a bang with a happier tone taking us to a familiar place and setting. Quaffles, anyone people? Enjoy…

Author's Note 2: I recommend you listen to “Next Year” by Kevin Henry while reading this. It'll set the mood straight.

Useless Trivia about The Fluff: This is also an abandon concept from my other fic “Quaffles, Anyone?”. For those who read it, this takes place after the Christmas Ball chapter. It shows how things happen when the DADA professor of the story brings the American New Year's tradition to Hogwarts. But after thinking, I decided to cut it since it will hurt the overall story you see in my fic.

For those interested, go to my profile if you want some Trivia and fact sheets about each of the 18 fluffs from Season One. It's worth a read if you want to more... ;)

Season Two

XIX

Next Year

“What a bunch of crap!”

“What is crap, sir?”

“This!” Rapticon Sr. gestured to the box on the ground. Harry turned to it and saw a box of fireworks which looked drenched and soiled.

“What's a box of fireworks doing here?” Harry turned to the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor.

“Well, Harry,” said Rapticon Sr., looking around at his desk for something “After the huge success of the Christmas Ball last week, I decided to make a New Year's Bash for Hogwarts!” he gleamed “Isn't it that amazing?”

Harry remembered the last time it was New Year at Hogwarts… it was kind of quiet for him.

“But why are they - er - wet?” Harry asked looking at the box of fireworks.

“Lets say a certain someone forgot to bring it inside from the freezing outdoors.” Said Rapticon Sr. irritably, carrying the box to the table. He casts a charm on it to make it dry. But instead, the fireworks flashed different colors.

“Eh?” Rapticon Sr. scratched his head looking at the box puzzlingly “I thought that would work…” he scoffed “Magic is not really my thing. Stupid voodoo”

Harry has known Rapticon Sr. as his professor of the Defense Against the Dark Arts this sixth year. He was pure-Russian but was raised in America making his accent American. Rapticon Sr.'s nature was that of a sophisticated yet tough guy person who is witty and charismatic. He was also a Muggle. Not a Muggle-born but a pure Muggle. His magic abilities aren't as good but they were at least better than that of Draco Malfoy's ability.

How he was able to make contact to the wizarding world despite his Muggle status? Well, nobody knows why. Base on the stories Elvis and Figment, Rapticon Sr.'s friends who came along with him to Hogwarts, Dumbledore had to convince the Ministry of Magic if he could let a pure Muggle teach in Hogwarts. Harry has no idea how that happened but for what the fates know, Dumbledore succeeded.

“Where will you have this New Year's party?” Harry asked.

“At the Great Hall.” He replied “According to McGonagall, the ballroom we used for the Christmas Ball is too big for the small party I've planned”

Harry looked out the window wondering.

“Speaking of the Christmas Ball…” Rapticon Sr. said “Anything happened between you and Hermione? The last time I saw you and she in the same room was when Hermione gave Viktor Krum a tour around Hogwarts two days after the ball”

Harry shot a look at Rapticon Sr. who was leaning on his table with an unmistakable grin.

“We're fine… nothing happened” Harry looked out the window again.

During the Christmas Ball, Harry was dateless but at the end he took Hermione to the ball when she didn't want to. The event made Harry realized that he really, really liked her.

“Don't deny it, Harry. You like her” said Rapticon Sr.

Harry sighed.

“Yes… I do like her ever since she dated that git last month. I was jealous, you know?”

Harry felt a nudge and turned to see Rapticon Sr. holding up two cups of hot chocolate offering the other one to Harry. Harry smiled and took the other.

“There will come a time Harry,” Rapticon Sr. looked out the window “that you have to tell her how you feel… it will probably not come out in another two or three months but it is inevitable.”

Harry drank his hot chocolate and looked out the window as an owl passed by, thinking on when that day (the day he will admit his feelings for Hermione) will come. For what he knows, it could be painful or happy.

- - -

“They're scheduling a what?” Hermione asked when Harry returned to the common room an hour later.

“A New Year's bash” said Harry sitting on one of the squashy armchairs “Professor Raptor said that he and the teachers are hosting it after the huge success of the ball last week.”

“Sounds interesting,” said Hermione “I've never been in a New Year's party since I was seven. Oooh, This is exciting!”

A sudden flash of memories ran through Hermione's mind. Oh the memories of the fireworks she would goggle at during the point the clock strikes twelve midnight. She sighed thinking that that would happen again since during her times as an eight year-old and above, she would be somewhere around the country with her family and the thing lacking during the New Year's night with her family is the street party, fireworks and the television showing the news channels doing countdowns.

But the tradition that didn't die in those trips was her family would gather around and sing “Auld Lang Syne” joyfully.

“Do we need to dress formally?” Ron asked.

“No,” Harry replied “You can wear anything… just don't go on starkers then you'll be fine.”

Hermione smirked at Harry's comment which Harry caught. He smirked back at her which made her bite her lower lip and continue what she was doing, writing a letter to her parents.

She doesn't know why but ever since her breakup with Alex weeks ago, she's been look at Harry at a new light… not just any new light but more of an attraction. He was the first one to comfort her after her breakup. It was sad yet comforting. Then at the ball, she didn't want to come but Harry took her to the ball and danced with her boys (that being Ron and Harry) and with Harry being the most intimate dance. It made her a bit shaken at the end but her meeting with Viktor Krum during the ball made Harry thought she was blowing him off. She, of course, went with Harry instead and ended the night in good terms… but nothing happened, though.

“Anything else we should know?” said Ron

“Oh yeah, professor Raptor said that he will make sure every Muggle tradition is implemented in this party… I dunno what he means but who knows - remember when he had bumblefoot?”

“Don't remind of that again” Ron shook his head “I couldn't sleep with the thought of knowing I could die tomorrow”

Hermione laughed.

“Well, we better be glad that that's over… Oooh, do you think we get to have a countdown timer?”

“I think so,” replied Harry “I remember Dudley screaming the countdown into my cupboard…” he frowned and turned to look out the window.

Hermione gave Harry a concerned look. Harry would sometimes slip something about the Dursleys but she would never thought of him being a bit affected by mentioning them… Harry has never told her and Ron about his past with the Dursleys.

“Is there something wrong, Harry?” Hermione asked

“No, nothing…” Harry waved an impatient hand “I jus realized how lousy my new years were… we - we never had one in Hogwarts, right?”

“I don't recall any..” Ron said “But I do remember Fred and George shooting Filibusters on Easter… but I really didn't know what that was about”

Hermione sighed and started thinking about the New Year's Bash party. How fun that would be, Hermione thought. The Christmas Ball must've changed her attitude towards events like these. She's usually the one who isn't for the crowds but after the Yule Ball and Christmas Ball? She seems to appreciate them.

But she remembered how timid she was at parties. Especially in parties with family when her cousins would try to talk to her but she would just bite her lower lip and run to the bathroom.

Like Harry, Hermione's New Year parties weren't flawless. She remembered during the New Year party that was held in her school back at Godric's Hollow, during the countdown part, everyone started saying they should give a New Year's kiss to someone. During the countdown, the eight year-old Hermione tried to look for her grandfather (who she affectionately calls “grand-peré”). She wanted to give him a kiss for the New Year but when the countdown reached zero, the first kiss she got was from the school bully. It was horrible. Hermione shuddered when the thought of his large lips touched her cheek… that really made her cry. But her grand-peré comforted her and gave the kiss she wanted to make that night better.

A kiss for the New Year… a tradition Hermione loathed ever since that happened. From that day on, she always stuck to her family members in parties just incase some boy kisses her.

Then it hit her like a broom on the head.

A kiss for the New Year, a kiss? A kiss to someone yes, but there will be a party… Professor Raptor said that he will make all Muggle traditions present… then a kiss for the New Year is likely to be present.

A kiss for the New Year. It was at this time, Hermione turned to the first person her chocolate brown eyes landed… Harry.

Kissing Harry on the point the clock strikes midnight? Hermione's mind laughed. That's rich. Would he like it? It's so obvious that he would like one from her. Hermione remembered her dance with him in the Ball. It's likely but was that just a fake? Did Harry dance with her for granted? Well, he did asked her out to the ball so it's obvious he wouldn't mind being kissed on New Year 's Eve.

“Erm - I think I realized something” Hermione said after her long trance

“What?” Harry and Ron said in unison.

“Nothing,” she stood up “I'll see you pretty soon”

Hermione left the common room and shook her head while she went down the Grand Staircase. What was she thinking? Her? Kissing Harry? Impossible. Hermione would never kiss her best friend. But her feelings for him were running in her system like wildfire! She wanted to get it out. She wanted to be free from her feelings for Harry. It's just wrong. They've made the pact and sealed it a long time ago: “NOTHING SHOULD HAPPEN BETWEEN THE TWO OF THEM”. Hermione wanted to kick herself for making that pact with Harry… if there was no pact then they'd probably be going out by now. But either way, it is wrong. Very wrong. Best friends shouldn't be kissing and have romance… What if Hermione admits her feelings to Harry? Would he get mad? Feel weird? If so, then she will be losing one of the most important people in her life.

Hermione didn't know where she was going but realized she was in front of the Great Hall and there was so much noise in there. Her curiosity getting to her, Hermione took a peek and was awed at what she saw.

The Great Hall looked nothing like before. It was decorated with lots of streamers, large rocket shaped sculptures and the same ice sculpture from the Christmas Ball. The four House tables have been moved to the sides of room serving as buffet tables leaving a large area on the center of the Hall.

“Careful…” said a voice from Hermione's right.

Hermione turned to see Elvis and Figment, one of Professor Raptor's friends, setting up some Christmas tree replaced with streamers, confetti and baby rockets as decorations. She walked over there to hear Figment speak.

“Careful,” he said as Elvis placed a baby rocket on the side “Careful… CAREFUL!!” Figment shouted making Elvis jump.

Elvis glared at him.

“I will be careful… unless told otherwise!” Elvis spat

“Hello,” Hermione greeted

Figment and Elvis jumped forcing Elvis to accidentally ignite one of the baby rockets making it zoom to the ceiling of the Great Hall and exploding to a magnificent shower of gold and red.

“Hermione!” Figment replied “What brings you here?”

“I just wanted to see the place, that's all” Hermione smiled looking above as the sparkles of red and gold vanished as it fell to the ground.

“Oh… then don't scare us like that” Elvis panted placing another baby rocket on the tree.

“Sorry,” Hermione giggled “Er - why are you decorating a Christmas tree with fireworks?”

“Oh this?” Figment pointed to the tree “Apparently and firstly… decorations for New Year's suck -”

“- Big time” Elvis added.

Hermione shook her head.

“What makes you say that?”

“C'mon” Elvis waved his hands matter-of-factly “Streamers? Fireworks? Confetti? Meh, I'd prefer the Easter Bunny than Father New Year”

“Father New Year?” Hermione asked, new to this information

“You haven't heard about Father New Year?” Elvis said placing a hand on his chest in a dramatic way “Father New Year is the equivalent of Santa Clause. He wears a jump suit that says “Crackers Me Booty” behind. His teeth are made of firecrackers and it is truth that he rides into the sunset with a fat blue chicken. Believe me, Father New Year is a -”

“- Fraud and a lame excuse for a Santa Clause” Figment interrupted “You have to - (Figment said something that made Elvis go “Figment! Not in front of the kids!”) - things up so you could mess people's minds, dunderhead!”

“Alright, alright!” Elvis apologized “Sorry for messing things up… If it makes you happy then I'll shut up”

“You better or I'll -”

“Aaaah!” Elvis flailed his arms making a defensive position “I'LL DO IT!”

Hermione left the two behind hoping she won't witness anything violent. She looked around the Great Hall and saw Professor Flitwick using magic to give the house tables skirts. To the left of the hall, McGonagall could be seen shooting streamers out of her wand to dress the bare wall to a colorful one. Right above the High Table where the teachers usually sat had a large banner that said “Happy New Year!” flashing in different colors kind of like the one Hermione and the others used when Harry had his first Quidditch match during their first year.

“Excellent!” called a voice to Hermione's right.

Hermione turned to see Professor Raptor testing a bowl of grape juice with a pale looking Professor Snape.

“The libations are fine for the party this Saturday! What do you think, Serverus?”

Hermione couldn't help but stifle a giggle when Snape forced a smile.

“They are fine” he said curtly “Now can we move on with the other meals? I've been drinking nothing but grape fruit!”

“Yeah, but it wasn't long since ya drank that bottle of firewhisky, eh?” Rapticon Sr. winked, smirking. Snape turned to look around cautiously and nearly flinched at the sight of Hermione.

“Ms. Granger?” he drawled keeping his cool “Er - aren't you supposed to be in the library? Studying?”

“Studying?” Rapticon Sr. said “Why should they? It's the holidays, man! They should be relaxing than studying their ass off on a test that you will likely to fail them!”

Hermione smiled gingerly.

“Sorry, I was just walking around and saw the Great Hall. It's fantastic!”

“Well,” Rapticon Sr. smiled “It was all Serverus' idea, see?” he put an arm around Snape as if they were good buddies while Snape was thinking otherwise “He thought of using streamers instead of balloons. Genious, eh?” he made a furtive wink to Hermione who tried to bite her lower lip from laughing.

“Erm - Professor Raptor? May I speak with you?”

“Why sure, Hermione” said Rapticon Sr. removing his Snape from his grasp “You can test the other food Serverus but remember… they're just food”

Hermione caught Snape's ears reddening when she and Rapticon Sr. walked away from the buffet table.

“What do you want to talk about, Hermione?” Rapticon Sr. spoke when they left earshot from the other teachers.

“Er - I just want to ask if - er - it's true that… all Muggle traditions will be implemented in the party?”

“Yup, all true”

“So that means - er -” Hermione had a faint shade of red above her nose

“What?” Rapticon Sr. asked

“Never mind…” Hermione turned trying to hide her blushing face. Would she ask? He is the only pure-Muggle in the castle.

“C'mon, tell me! It will eat ya up if you hide it too long” he gave Hermione that fatherly look.

Hermione looked up at him realizing how short she was and sighed.

“Okay… er - is it possible that - erm - that - that…”

“That, that, that, that - what?” Rapticon Sr. asked

“That - er - you know? Since Muggle tradition will be implemented here… does it make it possible that when midnight comes…”

“All the fireworks would fly and explode?” Rapticon Sr. answered

“No… the other thing that happens when midnight comes” she was already looking a bit pink in the cheeks.

“Other thing?” Rapticon Sr. rubbed his chin with his thumb and forefinger “other thing… other thing… what other thing?”

Hermione looked at her shoes started sliding her right foot on the ground idly. She looked up again and saw Rapticon Sr. still thinking.

“Midnight?” he muttered “Other thing… other thing… lets see, fireworks, countdown, people screaming `end of the world'…”

Hermione was a bit taken aback when Rapticon Sr.'s eyes widened. She felt really small when he turned to her very slowly.

“Ehem” Hermione coughed “Er - I have the feeling you found out, right” she spoke in a very squeaky voice.

Rapticon Sr. nodded.

“It's nothing to be ashamed of, Hermione… you were curious. I respect ones curiosity…” he looked around “Speaking of curiosity, why'd you ask?”

“I - I wanted to know… that's all…”

Hermione made a shy wave to her professor and turned on her heel. She pondered on what she would do now till something made her wonder…

“Er - professor?” Hermione asked turning to Rapticon Sr.

“Yeah?” he asked

“Do - do you even know what I was talking about?” she asked

“Yeah,” he replied “you were asking if kissing on the strike of midnight is part of the party… and to answer that question, yes”

Hermione bit her lower lip.

“I read Sherlock Holmes, Granger. So my deduction skills can be as superior as Sherlock” said Rapticon Sr. seriously with a slyness glint in his green eyes “You can go now, by the way. See ya at the party on Saturday!”

It was at this moment that Hermione saw how amazing Rapticon Sr.'s ego can be with logic when she left the Great Hall.

- - -

Getting the thought about kissing Harry on the strike of midnight on New Year's Eve was as hard as ignoring Elvis and Figment's argument while she was sitting by the lake for relaxation. Apparently, they've been arguing about the weirdest thing she ever heard.

“I'm telling you NO ITALICS!” Figment spat “How are you doing this?”

“I dunno!” Elvis waved his hands apologetically “It's not my fault!”

“Underlines, dammit!” Figment swore “I said no underlines!”

“How many times did I tell you?” Elvis pleaded “I DIDN'T DO ANYTHING!”

“Whatever, just don't do anything bold” Figment made a sigh of defeat “Oh crap”

“Don't look at me” Elvis thumbed his chest “I ain't doing any letters this time…”

“Excuse me?” Hermione asked politely with faint irate in her voice “Could you kindly keep down, guys?”

The two looked at her.

“Sorry, Hermione… DAMMIT, ELVIS! STOP IT!!” Figment slapped him with a black glove.

“Hey! Cheap shot…” Elvis whined rubbing his cheek “Hey? It's gone!”

“I know” Figment spat “And I hope you don't do it again”

“I didn't do it.”

Hermione shook her head and left the lake for a more peaceful spot. Every student she passed was taking about the party tomorrow night ever since they received letters during breakfast. Hermione took out her letter she received from a tawny owl and reread it.

Season Greetings!

Prior to the success of the Christmas Ball on Christmas last week, the school has decided to host another event for the benefit of the students, teachers and staff. On December 31^st, Saturday, seven o'clock in the evening, there will be a New Years Party held at the Great Hall to give the whole year a happy ending it deserves. The party will be filled with entertainment from dances, performances from a guest singer, fireworks displays. Attire will be smart-casual. Any head gear will be removed and expensive jewelry will be confiscated. Food and drinks will be prepared for you in the party.

We hope this event will be as successful and pleasant as the Ball for the benefit of the school!

Sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress

Hermione folded her letter and found herself in front of the Great Hall which looked nothing like the place Hermione knew since she was eleven. The double doors were decorated with glossy buntings and Japanese paper which were all decorated with equality and impressiveness. The doors were locked and a sign was up that said “No Admittance except on Party Business” which was very familiar since the words came from a book Hermione read when she was young.

The Great Hall was closed for the past two days so the school had to eat their breakfast in their respective common rooms. Hermione had the gut feeling she was the only one who saw the Great Hall in its New Year splendor. It came to mind that she didn't where she was going when she bumped into someone on the hallway leading to the Grand Staircase.

“Sorry,” she said, startled, looking at who she bumped but was a bit surprised it was Harry.

“Hermione,” Harry smiled “You don't have to say sorry… you seem to be deep in thought so it can happen to anyone”

Hermione smirked back.

“Anything bothering you?” Harry asked as they walked down the hallway.

“Nothing, really” Hermione lied “I was just thinking about the party tomorrow… I'm fine”

“At least you are fine,” Harry said “I bit my lip a while ago” he licked them with his brows furrowed “Do you see any blood?”

Hermione didn't know what she was seeing, Harry's lips or Harry licking his lips. It was making her nervous and more anxious to kiss him…

“Hermione?” Harry said waking her up from her reverie “Are you sure you are okay?”

It was the umpteenth time Hermione bit her lower lip this week. It made her lower lip a bit swollen but at least it would make her shut up before she could ramble something accidentally.

“I'm fine, Harry” Hermione said in a very high and squeaky voice “I - I just remembered something, bye!”

She took off before hearing what Harry would say. She nearly kicked herself for thinking about midnight tomorrow with desperation. But why should she be scarred? She does like him a lot and would do anything to have him. This party is the perfect opportunity to kiss him. It sounded desperate but she wanted it and it makes her happy.

Hermione stopped on her tracks and breathed deeply.

Should she kiss him? If yes, then how can she do it? She can't just walk and kiss him when everyone shouts “Zero!” during the countdown. He might feel offended for something like that or something to that sort. Maybe asking him politely would do the trick… yeah, asking him would do.

Thinking this through would require a lot of time. Looking around for any sign of Harry catching up to her, she was relieved that he didn't see any sign of Harry so without hesitation, she ran for the common room.

- - -

Today was already the day, the day the New Year's Bash Party will happen. Hermione looked at her watch to see it was still eleven o'clock in the morning in the common room. Was she going to do this?

Before she slept, Hermione stayed in the common room to think if she could ask Harry to kiss her at midnight. It was hard and weird a bit but she likes him a lot so it seems… right for her.

“Hermione?”

Hermione jumped and turned on her seat and saw Ron.

“Ron,” Hermione gasped “You scared me”

“Sorry, `bout that…” he sat beside her on the couch “I was just checking on you to see if you were okay”

Hermione scratched the nape of her neck.

“What makes you think I'm not okay?”

“Well, I've noticed you've been avoiding something lately or should I say someone?”

Hermione shot a look at Ron.

“You don't have it” Hermione said shortly

“Oh yes, I have” Ron said looking a bit triumphant “I know there is something going on with you. Why don't you tell me? I'm your best friend”

“I can't, Ron. They are my secrets and I'm not very keen on worrying about them knowing that someone knows them”

Ron scooted closer to her and placed a brotherly arm around her.

“Hermione, it disturbs me to see you like this. Really. Usually you are the one with all answers. You are the problem solver. But a Hermione with problems she can't handle?” he raised an eyebrow “That's something I have to look into”

Hermione smiled at Ron. Over the years they've been friends who bicker at each other but now, they seem to be like brother and sister. The thought of it might make Lavender shake her head since she thinks Ron is the one for her… Lavender's mind and (even though Hermione has no idea why she thought of it) a thousand of Muggles could be screaming right now if they knew what she was feeling towards Ron.

“Is there anything you want to tell me, Hermione?” Ron asked

Hermione sighed… she trusted him so much.

“Okay…” she took a deep breath “Recently, I've been seeing someone in a different way… a special way, rather… I want him to know how I feel but I'm afraid he might - you know - reject me”

Ron made a very thoughtful nod. Did he get what she said? Hermione knew Ron was a logical person but there are times he can be clueless…

“I think the answer to your problem Hermione is to tell him yourself” Ron said “I know it will be scary or risky but if he rejects you so what? Harry and I will be there for you”

The sound of Harry's name echoed in her brain like a horn.

“I'm sorry if that didn't help” Ron said quickly seeing Hermione's lost face “I - I'm not really good at this whole advice thing… it's usually you doing the whole thing” he chuckled

Hermione smirked at him

“Like giving advice so you can talk to Luna?”

Ron gave her a look of mixed surprise and realization.

“What do you mean?”

“Nothing…” Hermione twiddled her thumbs “Fiyuna has been telling me things lately…”

Ron smiled at her and for the first time ever, kissed her on the forehead.

“I know it won't help but it would feel a lot better if you tell the guy that you like him and if he rejects you then - just like I said - me and Harry will be there at your side. We won't leave you out in the cold”

Ron patted her on the back and left the common room. Hermione slouched on her seat wincing at the thought of Harry rejecting her. It would really hurt her. She was confident that Harry might like her back but what if she was wrong? She can always be wrong. She may be smart but she's not wise, there is a small chance he will reject her and that small chance scares her.

Despite these thoughts, Hermione was still to determine to kiss Harry on midnight even if it risks losing one of the dearest friends to her. All negative thoughts, aside. She's going to do it.

Hermione left the common room a little later to look for Harry. She wanted to talk to him about Merlin knows what… she didn't want to ask Harry yet… she just wanted to talk to him, that's all.

Hermione climbed down the Grand Staircase and checked the Great Hall at the entrance hall. The sign was still there and it still gave Hermione a familiar light… where did she read it before.

She continued on to find Harry. The lake was a good place to start since she finds him there all the time and if not then probably at the Quidditch Pitch, flying. The thought of Quidditch reminded her of her painful arm… she should be careful of not throwing the Quaffle too hard.

Hermione rubbed her arm remembering twisting it too much when she was practicing last week with Harry. Harry was even the one who helped her to the hospital wing to get it fixed.

She reached the lake to find lots of students but Harry there. She left for the Quidditch pitch and saw no one there. Feeling a bit worried, Hermione went back to the castle thinking Harry is at the common room.

It was at the hallway where the Defense Against The Dark Arts was is when Hermione heard voices.

“- I can't take her out of my head -”

“It's pretty obvious you like her”

Hermione stopped on her tracks. She knew the two voices. One belonged to Professor Raptor while the other belonged to Harry. Getting her curiosity the best of her, Hermione walked towards the door that lead to the classroom of the Defense Against the Dark Arts and pressed her ear on the oak wood. This is what she heard…

“I'm telling you, Harry. This party is the perfect opportunity” said the gruff American-accented voice of Rapticon Sr. “If you take it as an ass in Mississippi then don't go kissing up at all -”

“Look,” Harry's voice said “I'm nervous okay? What if she denies me? I don't want to lose her…”

“You won't Harry” Rapticon Sr. said, while the sound of a dull scraping of wood against the floor came “You won't lose her. I can tell ya, she might likes ya more than you think”

There was dead silence.

“Seriously, Harry… a Ravenclaw?”

There was another dead silence.

“Er - erm - yeah…” Harry replied briskly “It's a Ravenclaw”

“Damn” Rapticon Sr. swore under his breath “And I thought my cards were right… looks like Elvis wins for the first time ever since the poker game of `92”

“Excuse me, professor?” Harry cut him off “Er - I kinda need help on this…”

“ - oh… sorry `bout that Harry” then the sound of a loud scraping of wood on the floor ringed through Hermione's ears “My advice is just go for it… Try to - um - be polite to her if you want that kiss on midnight… now look, I'm waiting for a delivery of fireworks from a white-bearded wizard in Hogsmeade and I must be off”

Hermione didn't what was going on but there was another long silence and the next she knew, she heard footsteps, then the door opened making Hermione gasp, lose balance and fall on the ground face first.

“Hermione!” Harry gasped.

Hermione stood up briskly and looked at the two with her face looking a bit pink.

“What were you doing?” Rapticon Sr. asked

“I - I was - er -” she stuttered “I was about to - erm - find Harry and I - I heard his voice so I came here and when I was about - to - er - push the door open - coincidently, you opened too” she finished with a biting of her lip.

“Okay” Rapticon Sr. said making a thoughtful nod and grabbed hi coat from a hat stand nearby “Alright, Harry… I must be off. See ya, Hermione”

Rapticon Sr. left the Hermione and Harry alone on the corridor when he took a turn with the tail of his coat whipping out of sight.

Hermione chuckled.

“Er - So Harry… I - I just want to talk to you about something”

“What is it?” Harry asked

Hermione bit her lower lip… what should she say?

“Er - I've been meaning to tell you this but - er”

“Er - what?” Harry raised his eyebrows.

“Er - that wouldyouwanttokissmeonthetimetheclockstrikesmidnight?”

“Sorry, what?” Harry asked again “I didn't quite understand what you said” he chuckled

Hermione hung her head.

“Never mind…”

“Hermione,” Harry said “Is there something wrong?”

Hermione looked at Harry. He looked concern. A face that was very known to her.

“Nope,” she lied “I just want to ask if you are going to the party tonight”

“I'm coming” Harry said “You?”

“I'm coming too but I - er -”

Maybe asking him wouldn't hurt…

“Do you have any partners to go with to the party?”

“Yeah, you and Ron”

When the whole thing registered to Hermione's brain, she started to laugh a bit and made a playful push on Harry's shoulder.

“What? Did I say something funny?” Harry asked

“Nothing” Hermione said stopping herself from giggling “I just realized what you said when you said `partners'”

“Oh…” said Harry “Er - that didn't make any sense”

Hermione stopped laughing.

“Sorry… I'm just stressed about everything so far. I just want to have a little fun when the party comes”

Silence. Hermione just inflated her left cheek and started rocking back and forth on the balls of her feet.

“So… want to go back to the common room?” Harry asked

“Yeah, I think that would be nice - I mean fine. That would be fine” Hermione said quickly.

The two walked towards the Grand Staircase not saying a word to each other. Hermione's mind started swimming on what she ahs heard.

So Harry eyes on a Ravenclaw? Whatever happened to the spark that Hermione felt back at the ball? Was it all just platonic? She looked at Harry. Did he just see her as a friend then and found someone else? Hermione remembered the thought of asking Harry to kiss her on midnight. She might've looked stupid if she'd asked him and found out he liked someone else.

They reached the common room a moment later and Harry suddenly asked

“Hey Hermione, want to - er - play Wizards chess?”

Hermione shook her head.

“No thanks… I think I'll take a nap. I need the energy if I want to enjoy the party later.”

And without saying a word, Hermione ran up the girl's dormitory feeling worst than ever.

- - -

Well, Granger… tonight is the night and don't expect it to be spectacular.

Hermione was wearing the dress she wore to the ball last week and climbed out of the portrait hole. She wanted to go on alone. She wasn't keen on seeing Harry after what she heard earlier.

The party hasn't started yet so Hermione was expecting the Great Hall will be open, though the sign that was put up there was still familiar to her.

She finally reached the entrance hall and her predictions were right. The Great Hall doors were open and she could already see the lights, decorations and food from the outside. Hermione entered the Great Hall and was awed at the place. The faculty did an excellent job with the decorating. The last time she was here it was nice but now its. The walls were decorated with such evenness and the buffet looked delicious. The High Table where the faculty usually was was replaced with a high platform that looked like a stage.

The food looked excellent and realized most of them didn't have a touch of wizard feeling. There were no floating drinks that you could get in mid-air, no weird looking food and the like. It really looked Muggle-like. Rapticon Sr. must've really taken it seriously.

“You put it over there…” said a voice from afar

Hermione turned to see McGonagall telling Filch to put a stack of fireworks which he was holding under his arm at the corner.

“… And this is the Great Hall. The place where the party will begin”

It was Rapticon Sr. entering the Great Hall with a small group of people who were holding suitcases that looked like instruments. They must be the band who'll be playing.

“And to your right is the buffet” said Rapticon Sr. gesturing to the right “And right here…” he stopped to Hermione “Is a Hogwarts student” he winked at her.

“Hello, professor” Hermione greeted looking at the band who looked around in awe.

“Hermione, I want to introduce you to the band who'll be playing tonight. Guys, this is Hermione Granger, arguably the smartest witch in the school and Hermione, this is Kevin Henry. The vocalist of the band”

“Pleasure” Hermione smiled as she shook hands with Kevin Henry.

“Well then!” Rapticon Sr. clapped his hands together “Looks like you guys need to prepare! There is a back room here where you can freshen yourselves up. See ya, Hermione and oh -” he lowered to her “I think you better get ready since I see students coming in” he pointed toward the entranceway.

Hermione looked up and saw students entering. The party was about to start.

- - -

The party was a breeze. Nothing happened to Hermione but there was great music and dancing which she didn't participate in. Hermione just stood by the bar which served grape juice. She was drinking her second glass already when…

“Hermione?”

Hermione turned and nearly fell off her seat when she saw Harry.

“Harry!” she gasped “Hi”

“Hey…” she felt Harry's eyes looking at her from head to toe “You look nice” he smirked

“Oh” she blushed a bit “Yeah… thanks”

“You just look like you were at the ball except for the hair” Harry commented

“Oh, I thought straight hair wasn't for me” she said stroking the back of her head.

“You look pretty anyway” Harry said sitting beside her and ordered a grape juice “Were you here a while ago? I didn't see you in the common room”

“I went here ahead” Hermione answered “I wanted to check the place and it looks amazing” she looked around

“I know” Harry looked also “Professor Raptor did a superb job, hasn't he?” he looked behind him. “Look at Malfoy”

Hermione followed Harry's gaze and saw Mafloy dancing something that look oddly like a bastardize version of the tango with Pansy Parkinson.

They both laughed briefly and looked at each other for a while before going for their drinks.

“Um…” Hermione said putting her glass on the counter “I've been hearing about a - er - a Gryffindor setting his eyes on a Ravenclaw lately.. have any idea who it is?”

Hermione glanced at Harry who looked a bit anxious.

“I don't know what you are talking about” Harry replied looking at the band singing a song.

“I thought you knew” Hermione sadly took another sip on her drink.

“Hey, I think I'll get something to eat. Do you want anything from the buffet?”

Hermione shook her and head and the next thing she knew, Harry disappeared in to the crowd and Ron came out of nowhere.

“Hey Ron” Hermione greeted “Having fun?”

“Yeah” Ron said sitting beside Hermione and asking for a drink “Lots of fun. Professor Raptor just said this funny joke and -”

“ - Is Harry seeing someone?” Hermione cut Ron off before she could stop herself

“What?” Ron's brows furrowed “Harry seeing someone? Not that I know of”

“Then does Harry have his eyes set on someone?”

Hermione must've struck gold since Ron's eyes widened.

“Do - do you know something that I know?” Ron asked suspiciously

“I'm not sure…” she said looking at the counter surface grimly

“Hermione… do you still have that problem?”

“No” Hermione said blankly

“Look, I can tell it is the problem you told me earlier. Listen to me, just tell him how you feel and you'll be okay. Harry and I will support you if he rejects you. Besides, if a girl goes to him, would you want to beaten by someone because of your fears? I know Hermione Granger wouldn't want that”

Ron was right. Why should she be scarred of Harry rejecting her? Harry is a sensible person, he wouldn't hate for that. Harry might comment that he wants to be friends and it's all over. If he does have his eyes set on someone else then no way is she going to let that - whoever that girl is - go for her best friend first.

“Well?”

Hermione turned to Ron.

“I just realized how wise you can be” Hermione said and patted him on the cheek “Thank you”

Hermione got out off her seat and looked went to the buffet to look for Harry. The crowd was filled with chatter and laughter while the music played overhead. She wished the crowd would disperse a bit since her foot was stepped on twice before she finally reached the buffet table with two aching feet.

“Ouch… I hate crowds” Hermione moaned while she bent over to massage the tip of her white heels

“Hey Hermione!” it was Harry

“Harry!” Hermione stood up instantly trying hard to ignore the pain on her toes “I didn't see you there”

“What brings you here? I thought you weren't hungry” said Harry picking up a Devilled Egg on the buffet table and tossing it into his mouth “Mmm, delicious”

It was now or never.

“I just want to ask you something Harry” Hermione said her heart and toes beating.

“What?” Harry asked

And here comes the stuttering…

“I - I - er - want to -”

WOOSH!!

Hermione and Harry looked up and so as everyone else as a firework flew to the enchanted Hogwarts ceiling. The firework exploded into a shower of golden glitters. They rained the whole Great Hall making it look like a shower. Hermione looked over at the place the firework flew out from and was surprised to see McGonagall looking very angry while she held the ears of - surprisingly - Fred and George Weasley.

“Fred and George Weasley!” McGonagall hissed “I should've known!”

Hermione laughed. They must've heard of the New Year's Bash and decided to visit Hogwarts.

“Hey Hermione”

Hermione looked at Harry.

“You were about to ask something. What is it?”

“I - er - I just want to say something to you at midnight. Yeah, I want to say something to you at midnight” she said exhaustedly

“Sure” Harry said walking pass her and patting on her bare back since she was wearing a backless dress which made her shiver a bit.

“Great… at least I know something will happen in midnight”

- - -

“Good evening everybody” the vocalist Kevin Henry called to the crowd six minutes before January first “Is everyone having a good time?” said through the magicked microphone. The crowd murmured in acknowledgement “That's good. Before we reach the new year I want to sing to you a song I wrote to someone special to me” he sat down on one of the bar stools and held his acoustic guitar up and spoke at the microphone “I call the song `Next Year'”

Hermione rested her elbows on the counter of the bar as the band started playing and Kevin Henry started singing…

I'm not the first to say goodbye.

To a love I thought would never pass me by.

I'm not so good at giving in

But I know that I tried my best and still can't win.

“Hey Hermione” it was Ginny “Enjoying yourself, I see?” she giggled “This was a great night! The music's great, Fred and George is here (thought they have to be punished for what they've done, I hear they're doing the dishes) and it's only ten minutes till New Year! Aren't you going to give a kiss to someone?”

Hermione shot a look at Ginny.

“No… not tonight. I was supposed to do it but…” Hermione replied drinking her fourth glass of grape juice feeling depressed.

“That's sad” Ginny said placing a placate hand on Hermione's shoulder “Who were you supposed to kiss?” her eyes widened “Is it Seamus?”

“No!” Hermione said briskly “Not him, Ginny”

“Oh good, because kissing him with his recent hairstyle? Meh” she smirked

But next year I swear

I'll be a better man

With a better plan of breaking out of here.

But each time I'll find nothing changes

But still say it's been a good year

Hermione looked into her glass sadly. Should she do it? Should she ask Harry now before any does it?

“I have a feeling it's the person you told me about last year” Ginny said “It's Harry isn't?”

Hermione knew it was pointless beating around the bush.

“Yes… I want to be the one to kiss him on midnight. Professor Raptor and Ron advised me to just do it”

I won't pretend to answer why

We will never have a place we thought would be in time.

But I'm not angry anymore.

Go do your thing, do your thing I won't hold you back anymore.

“I could do it but the problem I'm nervous and the other is that Harry likes someone else”

“Where d'you get that?” Ginny asked new to this

“I overheard Harry and Professor Raptor talking about it. I convinced myself to tell Harry my feelings first before he does to the other one but I'm very doubtful of my options”

But next year I swear

I'll be a better man

With a better plan of breaking out of here.

But each time I'll find nothing changes

But still say it's been a good year

“But that won't scare you, would it?” Ginny asked “You like studying and you do it… so if you like Harry I know you can admit to him you like him”

And as we say goodbye the world we lost and what was taken away I think

I have to say we are better off at living everyday the way we were

And life I'm missing it everyday the way we were when life came now.

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

And never brought to mind?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

And days for Auld Lang Syne?

It was almost like Ron said. Ron and Ginny couldn't be wrong, could they? They had good advice and if this helps then maybe, just maybe she can take up her courage and kiss Harry on midnight which comes in… a minute.

The music stop all of a sudden as Dumbledore came up the stage looking at all of the students and teachers.

“Another year of happiness gone…” he said “I just want to thank you all for coming tonight. I want to thank the teachers for setting the event and the band that gave our evening a musical event.

But alas, we have only few seconds to live the year of ninety ninety-six and welcome the next year which is ninety ninety-seven. Our Defense Against the Dark Arts professor will take it up from here”

Dumbledore left the stage as Rapticon Sr. came up the stage with a standing ovation. He nodded to them and picked up the microphone.

“Good evening everyone” he said “Looks like we only have - thirty seconds till the big one, nine, nine, seven. Before we get there I just want to say that you better get ready for a New Year kiss for your partners” he smirked “A New Year's tradition in the Muggle world… A great one I must say”

Hermione then heard exciting murmuring amongst the wizards and witches. A small fit of giggles could be heard from the Hufflepuffs nearby.

“Yes, yes… mush all you want its gonna happen. It's a symbol on how much you care for one another. We make a countdown then once we reach zero - poof! Kissing time… anywho, thank you all for the support and hope everyone has a great new year!”

Rapticon Sr. left the stage with a round of applause but was cut short when Fred and George shouted from the corner.

“Everyone! Twenty seconds!”

Then out of nowhere sparks flew out and formed numbers representing a countdown timer. Only fifteen seconds… fourteen seconds… thirteen seconds…

There was no turning back.

“Where's Harry?” Hermione asked

“He's at the buffet table near the punch bowl. Why? Are you gonna do it?”

Hermione just smiled and walked towards the buffet table as the crowd started chanting.

“Ten! Nine! Eight…!”

Hermione found Harry at the buffet table and was about to walk towards him but was surprised by Peeves who zoomed out wearing a party hat counting down with the crowd. Hermione walked forward.

“… Four! Three…!”

Hermione was then blocked by a large group of Ravenclaws who were trying to go to the people who they wanted to kiss.

“Two! One… HAPPY NEW YEAR!”

Hermione tried to move forward through the crowd of kissing Ravenclaws but no way she could go pass them.

Then fireworks started zooming out of nowhere forming amazing pyro techniques and sparks making the Great Hall flash in different colors while the band started playing “Auld Lang Syne”

Finally, the crowd dispersed and Hermione was about to walk towards Harry but stopped on her walk to see something that shocked her.

She was beaten by someone… As expected, a Ravenclaw… and what was more shocking that it was Luna Lovegood. The sight of Harry kissing someone was worst as getting a T in an essay.

Hermione didn't know what to do… she was late. She felt like the saddest person in the happiest place in earth. Music was playing, people were laughing… she couldn't take it. Hermione walked towards the door of the Great Hall going to a place where she can drown her sorrows.

- - -

Hermione felt the breeze ripple through her bushy brown hair as she leaned against the battlements of the Astronomy Tower. Distant music could be heard from the Great Hall while the occasional flash from fireworks appeared.

Why was she so stupid? She could've gone to Harry first but no, she had to chicken out of it many times and taking double takes all the time and look where it landed her.

Hermione removed the thought of her misery. If Harry caught her and Alex kissing back at the Quidditch pitch last September she knew that he would probably feel the same way.

“The wind… it's nice”

Hermione nearly jumped at the sound of Harry's voice. She looked at him with pure sadness. What was he doing here?

“Sorry I scarred you… I was wondering where you were and Ginny said she saw you leave. I was thinking common room but knowing you, well” he gestured the horizon “What's eating you?” Harry caught Hermione's grim face.

“Nothing… I'm just exhausted”

Harry leaned next to Hermione on the battlements. Hermione didn't know if she should enjoy this or be sad about this.

“I - I saw you kissing Luna a while ago” Hermione blurted out

“Oh, that” Harry scratched his head “Well, Luna asked and I accepted… it was nothing though. We are still friends. Luna even told me that she liked to kiss Ron instead”

In a wave of relief, Hermione smiled. So it wasn't love that made them kiss…

“I know… Ron hinted that he might like Luna too…” she giggled a bit.

“Did you kiss anybody?” Harry asked

“No one… I'm not keen on doing that… I just want to be with friends and family that's all… no kisses” she finished distantly

Hermione looked at Harry who was smiling at her. A very significant smile. Before Hermione could speak, Harry took her hands and they both shifted to a standing position.

Then Harry said calmly with a smile.

“Three… Two… One…”

And for the first time in her life, Harry leaned and kissed her on the lips. It was a shocking feeling but pleasurable. Hermione closed her eyes enjoying the moment. They pulled apart and they looked at each other.

“It kinda took me a lot of thinking to do this” Harry said turning a small shade of red “I had a lot to think this through”

“Me too, Harry… me too” Hermione said pulling him closer for another kiss. A kiss that signaled that this year will be a good year. They kissed as the distant singing of Kevin Henry sang the closing part of the song “Next Year”.

For auld lang syne, my dear.

For auld lang syne!

Will take a cup of kindness yet,

For auld lang syne…

I'm not the first to say goodbye…

To a love that never passed me by…

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