Harry Potter H&Hr Fluff Collection

Busy college work is busy college work.

Season 2 Finale

XXXVI

Hermione Granger

Part III

It was the summer of 1991.

“Alice!”

“Hermione!”

Hermione ran to the living room as she descended the stairs to hug her cousin who sat on the couch. Her mother, father, and Aunt Elphaba beamed at the two hugging girls as they sat in their seats.

“I'm so glad you're here!” said Hermione, pulling away from Alice to look at her Aunt Elphaba, a brunette woman who has always loved green colored clothing; today, she was wearing a green sweater. “I couldn't sleep last night out of excitement!”

“Alice was excited too,” said Elphaba. “She refused to sleep on the way here and asked your father a lot of questions regarding you.”

Hermione beamed at her cousin who beamed back. Today, Alice wore a sky blue sundress with a white apron-like garment in front of her skirt. Tied around the top of her dark blonde hair was a black ribbon that served as a hairband

“When did you arrive?”

“Just this morning around five o'clock,” said her father, obviously exhausted from fetching them from the airport. “We had to avoid the morning traffic so it was quite a bit of a long ride than expected.”

“At least we were able to arrive here in time for Hermione to wake up, right? Really, Jacques, we thank you for going to that trouble getting us here.” said Elphaba.

“It's no problem,” said Jacques, beaming at his sister. “Hermonica, Allie?”

Hermione and Alice turned their heads to Jacques. Hermione's father smiled at the two girls and looked at Hermione and spoke.

“Your mother,” then nodded to Alice, “Your aunt baked cookies for the two of you in the dining room. I think I know two young girls who would love a mouthful, eh?”

The two girls enthusiastically raised their hands in the air as if they were in a class. Jacques chuckled and turned to Alice.

“I think my favorite niece would like a carry to the kitchen?”

Alice nodded adorably and raised her arms as Jacques carried her by the back and the bend under her knees.

“Carry me, daddy!” Hermione said, jumping on the balls of her feet.

“There's still some room up here,” Jacques jerked his head sideways to point out his back. “Hop on then!”

Hermione stepped on the couch and flung her arms around her father as he bent over a bit to give her a better leveling.

“To the kitchen we go!” said Jacques as he playfully carried the two girls to the kitchen, swaying left and right as Hermione and Alice giggled.

“Uncle, we might hit the wall!” Alice cried.

“Jacques Granger won't allow his little girls to get hurt, would he?” he said sagely, smirking down at Alice.

Hermione giggled from above and smiled down at Alice over her dad's shoulder. Alice looked up and caught Hermione's eye; they smiled at each other.

“I guess not, Uncle.” Alice said.

“Then what are we waiting for?” said Jacques. “The cookies are waiting!”

And with that said, Jacques carried the girls to the dining room where delicious cookies awaited the girls who were deemed inseparable by their uncles, aunts, parents and family members alike.

Hermione cared for Alice as Alice cared for Hermione. Hermione cut half a piece of her cookie to share with Alice which was returned when Alice gave Hermione her iced tea. It was inevitable that the two would consider each other as sisters since they look unusually alike.

“I actually thought they were twin sisters before I found out they were cousins!” one would say during gatherings or at parties.

It was a love that bloomed between them. They loved each other dearly and it was because of the long gap between them that caused their separation that their hearts grew fonder as they missed each other whenever it wasn't summer. But as it was the time of their reunion, they were whole once more, in each others' care and presence.

“Oh!” Alice gasped as her cookie fell to the ground. “Sorry,” she added apologetically as she twisted her torso around to reach for the ground.

“I'll get that, Allie,” said Hermione kindly, walking around to pick up the fallen cookie. “You know that you deserve all my care. Here, take mine!” she dragged her plate of cookies to Alice. “I'll just throw this in the rubbish bin.”

“Thank you,” Alice smiled at Hermione. “You're the best cousin ever.”

“Same here,” said Hermione, smiling back. “Like you said, together we're unlimited.”

“Unlimited!” Alice repeated happily as the girls happily ate and drank in the dining room of the good summer morning.

* * *

“This was the big surprise we were hiding from you, Hermione!” said Monica, walking over to Hermione's side. “We know it's been four years! Aunt Elphaba and I decided that we should let Alice arrive here two days in advance,” said Monica happily, “She and Aunt Glinda will come here two days from now.”

“We've been planning it since last month,” said Jacques, beaming at the girls.

“I've been very willing,” said Alice casually, smiling her best smile that Hermione usually found very pleasant on a normal day but at this moment, she thought Alice was showing off.

“Alice was quite excited,” said Jacques. “After her last visit, we were quite amazed on what will happen next.” Then he lowered his voice. “We miss you so much, Allie.”

“And we will be glad to have our favorite niece in the house again,” said Monica happily.

“That's nice,” said Alice in her adorably usual high gentle American-accented voice that had a tinge of British-accent, smiling at her Aunt Monica, “I can't wait for what's coming....”

“Coincidence though,” said Jacques, nodding to Harry, “Hermione, here, brought her best friend to celebrate the festivities with us! The Granger way.”

“Oh,” said Alice, looking at Harry. “I think I will be very much interested to - er - get to know the best friend of my cousin dearest.”

Hermione fumed.

She clubbed her fist like a ball and hid her shaking fist under her pockets as she glared at Harry who was speaking quite nervously.

“Er, Hermione d-didn't tell me that s-she had a cousin….” Harry said sheepishly. “I - I mean, you, to be specific.” Harry added.

“Of course,” said Alice,” Hermione doesn't have the obligation to tell others about her cousins… I bet she has more important things to do, isn't that right, Hermione?”

Hermione fixed her face to look casual as Alice and Harry turned to her.

“Yes,” said Hermione quietly.

Loathing… unadulterated loathing.

“I loathe your face, your voice and your clothing!” Hermione whispered dangerously that only she can hear herself whispering.

Hermione clearly loathed her.

“How's Dinah?” Hermione suddenly asked in a mechanical voice.

“She's fine,” said Alice coolly. “I wasn't able to bring her because I was afraid she might be too much of a handful.”

I'll give you a handful….

“Girls!” said Jacques, walking up to them. “Hermione - why don't you go and help Alice to the guestroom? I bet you know where it is, Allie?” Jacques turned to Alice.

“Of course, Uncle Jac-Jac,” said Alice sweetly.

Suck up.

“Excellent,” nodded Jacques, “You two do that while Harry and I,” he looked at Harry, “will get a little reintroduction.”

Harry shot Hermione a cautious look. Abandoning all her feelings towards Alice, Hermione nodded him in support. She knew this would come especially with her father's knack of asking questions regarding her….

Ugh… he can be too protective at times… just like with John -

Hermione pursed her lips as her raging emotions dropped on her head. She furtively glared at Alice who was hoisting her rucksack up to her shoulders.

“Hermione, can you help Alice with her luggage while I get her lunch ready?” Monica asked kindly.

Hermione nodded to her mother. She turned to see her father lead Harry to sit down at the couch in the living room. With a weak smile at Harry, Hermione turned to Alice who looked back at her.

“Where's your luggage?”

“Just one,” Alice turned to a large brown bag that Hermione failed to notice. “Do you need - ?”

“I can do it,” said Hermione sternly, picking up the bag. The moment she pulled the straps, she was hoisted down as the weight of the bag overcame her.

This is heavy!

Hermione exhaled and turned to Alice.

“Do you need help?” she asked harmoniously.

Hermione scowled and halfheartedly scoffed as she stood up to full height.

“I'll take that as yes,” said Alice, picking up the first strap, “Go on,”

Hermione picked up the second strap and together, the two girls carried it up to the staircase.

“Nothing has changed,” said Alice serenely, stepping up on the landing of the second floor.

“Obviously,” Hermione muttered, rolling her eyes as she tore them away from Harry and her father who conversed in the living room; Harry looked quite nervous.

Hermione brought Alice to the guestroom which was located right across her bedroom. Hermione opened the door and realized that she hasn't been here for months now.

Unlike her pink bedroom, this one was color blue and was much larger. The room was wide enough to fit four people due to the two queen-size beds that were placed a meter apart from each other. The room was comfortably lit and had the air of sophistication. The white drapes blocked the outdoor view that the windows would usually give. Hermione looked around and saw a full-body mirror at the corner of the room.

On the side of the room was a white personal computer.

“It's been awhile,” said Alice, entering the bedroom as she dropped the handle of her brown bag. Hermione had to regain balance as the weight of the bag fell. “Does that have internet?” she pointed to computer.

“Yes,” said Hermione lamely, not looking at Alice.

“Good, I can e-mail my mom and dad.”

Alice dropped her rucksack on the first bed and observed the room. She sat on the bed and hopped on it to test the softness of it.

Hermione dragged the bag to the corner of the room and huffed. Hermione looked back to see Alice brushing her dark blonde hair.

Hermione loathed herself for admitting it… but she had to… Alice has beautiful hair.

“I think we should go down….” Hermione said quietly, walking up to the door.

“I think we should,” said Alice, standing up as she followed Hermione out of the room. “Er - Hermione?”

Hermione turned to Alice and was expecting some sort of sly leer from her cousin but was surprise that Alice was wearing a look of seriousness much unlike Alice's.

“What?” Hermione asked.

Alice hesitantly opened her mouth then closed it.

“Do you have anything worth saying?” Hermione seethed, not keen to hide her loathing.

To Hermione's surprise, Alice's face went into a mix of irate and hurt.

“Fine,” said Alice, regaining her cool, “Lead the way, Hermione.”

The two girls climbed down the stairs to the living room where Jacques was still talking to Harry.

“Ah, Hermione!” said Jacques, gesturing her to approach him. “I was just talking to Harry here and he said that you're the first female best friend he has in his life.”

Hermione beamed at Harry who nodded awkwardly at her. A soft scoff rang to the side of Hermione's ears as she turned to see Alice appear at her side. Hermione glared at Alice and turned to her father.

“Well, father,” said Hermione, “Frankly, we initially went on the wrong foot….”

“Oh, really?” Hermione's father boomed making Harry jump. “Wrong foot, eh?” he turned to Harry briskly. “What did you do to my daughter? Did you bully her?”

“Dad!” Hermione cried, sitting beside Harry, “Don't mind him… he's like that….”

“Just watching out for my daughter's safety, Hermonica,” said Jacques.

“Hermione, dad!” Hermione blushed after hearing Harry chuckle.

“You should hear her other nickname,” said Alice instantly that everyone turned to her.

“W-what other nickname?” Hermione asked mechanically, shooting a cautious look at Alice. Did she have another one?

“Yeah, what nickname?” Harry asked, clearly looking quite amused.

“Ah, yes!” said Jacques joyfully. “Kiwi, was it!”

“Yeah,” said Alice, grinning. “That's the one.”

Hermione's eyes widened as her face turned brick red. How could she forget that?!

“Kiwi?” Harry asked amusingly, turning to Hermione. “Kiwi?”

“You don't have to say it twice, Harry!” Hermione spat, blushing.

“But why didn't you tell me or Ron?” Harry asked, grinning from ear to ear.

“I - I,” Hermione blushed, “I - I don't know! Circumstances?!”

“Ah, Alice!” said Hermione's father, “Come here and sit, I was just talking to Hermione's best friend here - er -”

“Harry,” said Alice, sitting on the white couch, smiling at Harry, “His name is Harry.”

Harry chuckled nervously and Hermione began to shoot daggers at Alice.

“Ha ha,” Jacques chuckled, “Looks like you two are getting quite acquainted!”

“Not in my watch,” Hermione growled.

“Did you say something, Hermione?” Harry asked.

“No,” said Hermione immediately.

“Harry,” said Jacques, “I think you should be reintroduced to my niece…”

He gestured to Alice who smiled at her uncle.

“Her name is Alice Lindell Granger,” said Jacques. “Allie - why don't you tell Harry more about yourself? I think your Aunt will need another hand in the kitchen.”

As Alice waved to Jacques, who exited the room, Hermione turned to Harry and whispered.

“What did my dad tell you?”

“That his name was Jacques Wendell Granger… then he just asked questions…” Harry said, turning slightly pink. “…you know, if I was taking care of you or if I was - er - taking advantage by doing things….”

Hermione's brow furrowed.

“Doing what things?”

“I - I dunno,” said Harry, not looking at Hermione, “I mean, he's nice b-but I can't believe he actually asked th-that….”

“My dad is like that!” said Hermione supportively. “He's just humoring you! If he does that then that means he likes you!”

“Quite strange for him to express that,” said Harry darkly.

“He'll like you in due time,” said Hermione pointedly. “I swear.”

“While waiting, you have to tell me about the back-story of your nickname, Kiwi,” said Harry, grinning broadly at her.

Before Hermione could retort, Alice made a coughing sound.

“Mind if I join in your conversation?” she asked.

“N-no,” said Harry gingerly. “Not at all.”

“Good!” said Alice.

“Hey!” Hermione squeaked.

In a split and surprising second, Hermione gasped in surprise as Alice flung herself to the couch, squeezing herself in-between Harry and Hermione.

“Hi!” said Alice, looking at Harry. “I think we've met.”

“That scarlet woman!” Hermione whispered angrily, fixing herself up to see Alice smiling at Harry broadly.

“Y-yeah,” said Harry. “Er - you remember me, right? Harry?”

“I just said your name awhile ago, Harry,” said Alice playfully, her eyes twinkling. “Just in case, my name is Alice. I'm beautifully tragic.”

Hermione did a big eye roll at this and looked over Alice's shoulder to see Harry looking unusually flushed.

“Call me `Allie',” said Alice, turning sideways and saying aloud, “That what my friends call me.”

“Why you -” Hermione muttered before she heard her mother call her.

“Hermonica! Come here, I need you to help me with something!”

Hermione, Harry and Alice turned to the dining room's archway where Jacques appeared at the threshold.

“Hermione, your mother's calling you.”

“B-but,”

“Don't worry, I'll keep Harry company while you're away.” Alice said.

Hermione's face turned murderous and without giving the satisfaction to Alice that she ticked her off, Hermione did not look at her or at Harry.

“I'm coming,” said Hermione nonchalantly.

Hermione walked across the living room and was about to go through the archway into the dining room when she stopped on her tracks to look at Harry and Alice who were talking quite animatedly (Though, Hermione noted how Alice was doing all the talking while Harry spoke nervously).

“I heard Hermione say a name called Dinah….” Harry's voice said.

“Dinah's my white rabbit,” she said happily. “I have pictures in my bag if you want to see them later. She's very white till the last fur!”

I bet there's something else that's also white that you want to show to Harry in your damn bag!

Hermione clenched her teeth and pushed her emotions away as her mother called her for the second time.

* * *

“Done!” said a young Hermione happily, walking up to the bed to sit on the side, showing Alice her drawing.

Alice, who was lying down on the bed, her legs propped neatly in a straight line, said, “It's beautiful, Kiwi!”

“Really?” said Hermione, looking at her picture. “I always thought yours are better though.”

“I don't have a talent in drawing, to be honest,” said Alice sadly.

“You do!” said Hermione, “How do you think I started drawing anyway?”

Alice looked at Hermione skeptically.

“Sorry, Hermione… I don't have a clue.”

“From you,” said Hermione, smiling.

“Me?”

“Yeah,” said Hermione, “ever since I saw your drawing of the waterfall - the one that won you first place, remember? - anyway, when I saw that, it made me want to draw… be like you.”

Alice did not say anything but she smiled broadly.

“You know,” said Alice, “I've had so many friends… but only one that mattered.”

The two girls beamed at each other and without further ado, Hermione leaned and gave her cousin a one-armed squeeze.

“Unlimited….” Hermione hummed, leaning away from Alice. “Together we're unlimited….”

“You made our motto into a song?” Alice said amusingly.

“N-not really,” said Hermione, twisting a lock of her hair, “I - it just popped into my head… that's all….”

“Well, if we have time,” said Alice, “maybe we can work on something! The summer just started after all.”

Hermione giggled.

“But why don't we start with small things?” Hermione said, “Besides, the boy I told you about? Johnny? He's coming over, you know. I want you to meet him! He's my other best friend whenever you're not around.”

“Really?” said Alice, smiling. “I can't wait!”

“You two will get along really well, I believe,” said Hermione happily.

“I hope so…” said Alice, pulling down her skirt. “How long have you and this boy known each other?”

“Not too long… maybe more than two years now.” Hermione said.

“Oh.” Alice fingered her lower lip thoughtfully then giggled. “I hope he's funny. I like funny people.”

“He can be a bit awkward, to be honest,” said Hermione. “I mean, he can say things randomly and won't mean it. Then he gets all flustered for acting like that… yeah, he is funny.”

The girls giggled.

“So, what are you doing today?” Alice asked, placing her hands on her lap.

“Nothing but spend time with you,” said Hermione. “What do you want to do?”

“I know!” said Alice, “Maybe when Johnny arrives, we can play dodgeball!”

“Allie, I don't think that would be - er - appropriate,” Hermione winced. “Well, you know….”

Hermione looked at her bed where Alice sat on.

“C'mon, Hermione,” said Alice, her voice becoming squeaky as it did so often. “I can always stay in one place!”

“But you might get hurt,” said Hermione, “I'm very protective about you.”

“I know that, Kiwi…” said Alice, looking down at her knees. “I just want some energetic fun… that's all.”

“Hey, Allie,” said Hermione, putting an arm around her. “Don't worry. You'll get your `energetic fun' when John arrives. He'll prove to you that you don't need to run around to have fun.”

“Like board games,” said Alice, smirking. “We don't need to run around, right?”

“Correct,” said Hermione happily. “I know, why don't we play a board game?”

“I like Monopoly!” Alice clapped her hands excitedly.

Hermione nodded and walked over to a shelf at the corner that held most of her possessions (mostly books). She looked up and saw three board games stacked above: Monopoly, Trivial Pursuit and Operation. Using a footstool, Hermione stepped up and took the Monopoly board game and turned to place the Monopoly board game on the foot of the bed.

“Oh yeah,” said Hermione, “I forgot about the play money.”

She usually kept the play money of her Monopoly board game in a safe place to avoid an inevitable loss. Hermione walked over the dresser and pulled the drawer.

“Oh!” Hermione gasped in realization.

“What's wrong?” Alice asked from behind.

Hermione looked below the drawer she opened to see the mysterious letter she received a week ago. It was staring back at her with the green letters boring her name, address and its yellowish splendor. She looked at it intriguingly and picked it up to observe it once more.

“What's that, Hermione?” Alice asked.

Turning over the letter to see the candle wax seal, Hermione turned to Alice.

“It's a letter,” she said.

“From who?”

From who? was the question, Hermione thought. Until now she has never opened it and somehow forgot about looking into it due to her excitement over Alice's arrival.

“I-I'm not sure,” said Hermione.

“Why don't you open it?”

Hermione hesitated and had a strong feeling to rip the missive as Alice suggested. For a second there, Hermione thought the letter started whispering at her to open it. Feeling a bit spooked, Hermione shoved the letter on the top of the dresser, took the play money from drawer and walked back to Alice.

“I'll open it some other time,” said Hermione with a hint of finality. “Anyway, Monopoly is waiting, Allie!”

“Goodie,” said Alice happily.

As they played their board game, Hermione and Alice forgot to note how an owl passed by the window.

* * *

“Sorry, mum,” said Hermione, entering through the kitchen. “What do you need?”

“I think Harry and Alice would like some iced tea,” said Monica, pointing a tray of iced tea on the counter. “I doubt it would hurt to offer Harry another one.”

Hermione nodded to her mother and carried the tray to the living room where Alice and Harry were conversing. Hermione neared them enough to catch the tails of what Alice was saying.

“…then this tower of cards fell over me!” Alice exclaimed. “Before I could do anything, I woke up from where I started: by the lake with my mom. It turned out to be a dream… or at least I think it was a dream….”

“It must've been one.” Harry said timidly. “I mean, talking animals, a white rabbit that can tell time… a queen of cards… it's quite an imagination.”

“It felt so real though,” said Alice. “But it was really a dream because my mom said I was squirming on the spot while I slept.”

“Hermione,” Harry said, catching Hermione carrying a tray of iced tea.

“Hi,” said Hermione stiffly. “I brought you iced tea for your liking.”

“Hermione,” Harry repeated, standing up as he reached for the tray. “It's alright, I'll carry that for you.”

“I'm fine, Harry,” said Hermione irritably, pulling the tray from Harry's reach. “Just sit down. You're the guest.”

“I insist,” Harry implored, looking uneasy. Hermione knew that Harry was too modest.

“I'm fine!” said Hermione insistently.

“Hermione,” said Alice, “I think it's only fair that we also take the burden as hostess.”

“Don't be too modest,” said Hermione icily.

“I'm just trying to be polite.” Alice replied coolly.

Hermione rolled her eyes then Harry said, “Hermione, here - you don't have to carry everything for us, really.”

“Harry, just let me put this down -”

“Hermione, go easy on Harry, he's just trying to be a gentleman.” Alice suddenly said.

Hermione stared at Alice as if she was something nasty. Harry chuckled nervously.

“Oh, of course!” Hermione suddenly said loudly that made Harry jump. “Silly me!” She clumsily placed the tray on the table then turned to Harry. “I'm sorry, Harry, for being too high maintenance at you!” her voice was high and very irritable. “Pardon my rudeness at ignoring that Harry wants to be a gentleman!”

Without a word, Hermione spun on her heel and walked quickly out of the living room up to the shelter of her bedroom. She locked the door and flung herself on her bed and groaned.

“For Pete's sake, Hermione!” she scolded herself, placing her hands to her face. “Why did you have to burst like that?!”

She thought it felt too immature to bite Alice's head off… then again… Hermione thought it was a justified action.

Don't be stupid, Hermione…. You know very well that that wasn't justified.

But she hated her so much.

Am I willing to throw away my dignity just to hate her for who she is?

“How shallow of you, Hermione….” Hermione groaned.

Hermione felt confused. The bubbling hate she has towards Alice confused her. What if Alice changed? It's been four years since she met Alice…. Seriously, what if she changed?

Impossible… the way she spoke and walk was still the same thing from four years ago….

Hermione groaned and slapped her forehead, hoping that the moment she gets out of the room, she would've been in a dream.

It's been four years… since then. Ever since that event four years ago, Hermione and Alice drifted apart. Until now, neither Hermione nor Alice told their families that they loathed each other… so far, the family of the Grangers still believes that Hermione and Alice were still an inseparable duo.

Everything was a lie though… Hermione and Alice never spoke to each other in four years all because of a pivotal disagreement that led to a lot of chain reactions that jeopardized everything Hermione cared for….

Hermione went silent for the next few minute, expecting someone knocking on her door… probably Harry.

But no one came. Everything was silent in her room… Hermione turned to see her clock on the wall; it was already half past one in the afternoon. She looked at the ceiling and stared at the rigged texture which she and her mother worked on years ago by rolling a roller brush in a unique way to make that kind of texture.

Cool down, Hermione….

Feeling her irritable attitude die away, she sighed slowly and began to hum a tune. As she hummed it, Hermione closed her eyes and absentmindedly counted the white dots that danced in the darkness of her closed eyes.

After a few minutes, she parted her lips and sang.

“I've heard it said that people come into our lives… for a reason… bringing something we must learn and we are led to those who helped us most to grow… if we let them and we helped them in return… Well I don't know if I believe that's true. I know who I am today, because I knew you….”

Hermione instantly gasped, opened her eyes breathed deeply and began to be aware that her eyes were watery. Wiping her eyes with her sleeve, she lifted her head to look at the door.

Should Harry come up and check on me?

It was a strange thought but knowing Harry, Hermione expected him to come up to ask her if she was okay.

Dropping her head on the bed, Hermione bit her lip to not let the song she sang awhile ago escape her lips again.

That was our song….

Hermione sighed sadly and recalled the last time they sung the incomplete composition. The song she sang was an unfinished song…. It was meant to be finished but until now, after new circumstances, Hermione thought that it will never be finished.

We both live new lives now….

And for thinking that she wanted to finish the song, Hermione somehow hated herself for that.

Hermione got off her bed and walked to her dresser. She looked at the mirror and saw her gloomy reflection staring back at her. She tried to smile but all she got was a sad one. It then occurred to her that her mirror was framed with pictures of her, Harry and Ron in numerous locations in Hogwarts.

The surface of the dresser was picture-free and all was present was a couple of bottles that contained perfume her mother's friends gave her a summer ago. To the right there was a large encyclopedia and to the left of the dresser was a white powder-puff that looked rather dirty.

Feeling the need for it, Hermione checked her drawers and found nothing but old objects that were probably there for years: a piece of rectangular yellow plastic that probably belonged to a toy, a pencil, Post-Its, cotton, etcetera.

Obviously, these things did not interest her as she closed the drawers. It was at the last drawer that Hermione finally found something that interested her.

Lying at the corner was a small slab of yellow transparent solid. Hermione picked it up and felt the smooth and firm object with her fingers….

“Wow….” Hermione whispered. “After all this time….”

She thought she lost it but she felt quite relieved that this piece of resin was still in her dresser.

A sudden thought his her mind….

Should I take it out?

Hermione rubbed the resin with her thumb and bit her lip. Maybe it wasn't a bad idea for her to do what she wanted to do at the moment….

Knock.

Knock.

Knock.

Instantly, the bookworm rushed to the door and opened it, expecting that it was Harry. To her surprise and disappointment, it was her mother.

“Hermione, there you are!” said Monica.

“What is it, mum?”

“I was just looking for you tell you an important matter mostly because you'll probably love it.” Monica smiled at her daughter.

“W-what do you mean?”

“I just got off the phone with your grandfather Jack.”

Hermione's eyes widened.

“Grand-père ?” Hermione said quietly.

Monica nodded, beaming at her.

“Yes, him. Anyway, remember how the tradition goes when relatives arrive to be with us in England?” said Monica.

Hermione smiled broadly. “W-we go to Grand-père 's country home.”

“I knew you'd give that face the moment I'll tell you the news!” said Monica happily.

“S-so we're going there?” Hermione said excitedly, ignoring that she looked like a little girl receiving sweets. “We're going to spend the holidays there?”

“Yes, we are, Hermione,” said Monica. “I'm just going to give you a heads up so that way, you can prepare early because I know how much you love your grandfather.”

Of course, Hermione's grandfather, Jack Granger, took care of Hermione when she was young, telling her all sort of stories and interesting facts and figures. It was because of her grandfather, whom she affectionately calls “Grand-père ” (as in “peh-reh”), that Hermione learned the love and joy of reading and learning new things. Out of all of his grandchildren, Jack loved Hermione the most due to the fact that she was the only grandchild in England whilst the rest, that being Elphaba and her children, lived in the United States.

When Hermione's grandmother died more than a decade ago, Hermione kept her grandfather company and through that bonding that Hermione began to learn the joys of being studious. She brought joy to his heart that her grandfather valued Hermione very much that she kept on getting very expensive gifts from him whenever a special occasion comes.

“You look excited,” said Monica, her eyes twinkling at Hermione.

Hermione smiled sweetly at her mother and hugged her.

“This is going to be great, mum!” said Hermione, pulling away. “Harry can see the family country home!”

“I was thinking that too,” said Monica. “That way, we won't have to be in the burden of keeping everyone in the house. The country home has more guest rooms.”

“When are we leaving for Grand-père?”

“I'm expecting the day after Elphaba and Glinda arrives.” Monica explained. “But alas, we'll find out soon when they get here, alright?”

“O-okay,” said Hermione calmly, trying to hold in her happiness.

“Now what are you doing here?” her mother asked. “Shouldn't you be down there with Harry and Allie?”

Hermione winced and smiled weakly at her mother.

“What's the matter, dear?”

“N-nothing,” said Hermione, looking away from her mum. “I - I just… got something to think about for a moment….”

“Oh, Hermione,” said Monica dearly.

Hermione turned and saw her mother looking at her with concern.

“You miss him, don't you?” she asked.

A saddening jolt sparked within Hermione. That wasn't what she was thinking at the moment… but then again, things are looking like they're happening again.

“You know, Harry looks so much like him,” said Monica, “Except that Harry has brilliant green eyes….”

Hermione looked down at the ground and wished her mother would stop. She didn't need to go and listen to this.

“I miss him….” Hermione admitted. “B-but it's probably the best that I learn to move on, mum.” Hermione said quietly.

“That's good,” said Monica approvingly. “Though I can't help but notice that Harry and Alice are getting along quite nicely.”

Hermione looked after at her mother who was walking away down the corridor.

“What do you mean?”

Her mother stopped, turned to her daughter briefly and spoke.

“I mean, it's like having John around the house again.”

Without a word, Monica left Hermione alone by the threshold where she thought of nothing but what her mother said… all the while that the thought of visiting her Grand-père will ease her anxiety towards Alice, among many things.

* * *

Hermione clambered down the staircase a few minutes later and met Harry on the way down.

“Harry,” Hermione said in surprise.

“Where were you?” Harry asked with concern. “The moment you burst out like that I couldn't think why you'd do that.”

“I'm sorry, Harry,” said Hermione automatically, sounding quite sad than she intended.

“A-are you alright, Hermione?” Harry looked at her chocolate brown eyes. “You seem… quite puffy.”

“I'm fine, Harry,” Hermione smiled at him. “I'm just tired, that's all.”

“What's that in your hand?” Harry looked at her fumbling fingers at her right hand.

Hermione stared down and saw she was holding a slab of solid resin of color amber.

“It's just something I picked up in my room,” said Hermione simply. She felt odd for some reason.

“Oh… but are you alright?” Harry held her by the shoulder.

“I'm fine, Harry,” Hermione said serenely. “I just wanted to see you, that's all.”

“What?” Harry looked at her confusingly.

“I - I mean I wanted to come down here to see what's up with you.” Hermione said quickly.

“Well, things are doing okay here… Alice is quite an interesting girl,” Harry said timidly.

Don't think, just speak.

“How is she?” Hermione asked casually.

“She's very nice, I have to admit,” said Harry, smiling. “She has the most adorable voice.”

“Getting a crush already?” Hermione suddenly blurted out.

“W-what?” Harry looked at her disbelievingly, turning slightly red. “Whatever gave you that idea?”

“Oh nothing,” said Hermione innocently, walking pass Harry. “It's just that you seem to be sooo interested in her.”

Before Harry could answer, Alice appeared from the kitchen with a cookie on her right hand and a glass of milk in the other.

“Harry, you have to taste this, it's really delicious.” Alice said, walking up to them. “Oh, hi Hermione,” she added when she caught sight of her cousin.

Don't be intimidated.

“Hi, Alice.” Hermione replied, sounding icy than she intended.

“Where were you after you gave us the iced tea? I mean, you suddenly disappeared like that.” Alice snapped her fingers.

“I was thinking of some things,” said Hermione.

“Oh,” said Alice. “Well, you should really try to at least talk with Harry here because he seemed to be very worried about you afterwards.”

Hermione glanced at Harry then back to Alice.

“Oh well,” said Alice. “Considering that you're the brains of the family, I can't blame for your brooding nature.”

Hermione bit her lip from saying anything.

“Anyway,” she turned to Harry, “Would yo u like a cookie?”

“S-sure,” said Harry nervously.

“There's a plate over there in the kitchen. You must try some. Aunt Monica makes the most delicious cookies!” she said in her distinctive high gentle voice.

Harry nodded automatically and looked at Hermione.

“You want to come?”

“Sorry,” said Hermione, glaring at Harry for the first time ever since they arrived. “I'm busy preparing for Aunt Glinda and Aunt Elphaba's arrival.”

Suddenly, Alice answered.

“It''s too bad though, I know how much you really love them, Hermione.” Alice said, unusually talking in an even voice. “But then again, you might be too busy with your schoolwork. Why don't you do what you love and go to the bedroom and entertain yourself by opening a book?”

Without all the control in her boiling heart, Hermione, with a deadly glare at Alice, said in a dangerous voice.

“Oh, oh - alright!” she smiled in a rather creepy way, “I-I'll do that and open a book in bedroom - oh, wait, I know! While I do that, why don't you go to the corner street and entertain a man by opening your legs?!”

“HERMIONE!!” Harry gasped.

Hermione glared at Alice with all the hate she had for her. Alice, however, wasn't glaring... in fact, she looked extremely hurt and intimidated but kept a firm ground on her part.

The ringing silence continued on as Hermione began to register Alice's features. To her surprise, Alice looked saddened but a loathing expression was still profound in her cerulean blue eyes which looked slightly mirror-like.

Harry, in the other hand, looked at Hermione with utmost disbelief.

“D-do you want cookies, Harry?” Alice spoke in a stiff voice, sniffing.

Harry absentmindedly glanced at Alice and mechanically nodded. He turned to Hermione and looked at her with an expression filled with confusion and shock.

“I'll go on ahead,” said Alice who turned away and left for the dining room, leaving Harry and Hermione alone.

“Hermione - ?”

“What?” she spat.

“What's got into you?” Harry asked cautiously. “I - I can't believe you actually said that!”

He walked over to her and took her by the shoulders.

“Are you sure you're alright?”

Hermione looked at his hands and then to Harry. She couldn't help but feel a certain jolt of pride that Harry cared so much for her feelings. She pouted a bit and looked down at the floor.

“I'm not....”

“Then what's going on?” Harry asked. “Do you... do you have a problem with Alice?”

“A problem with Alice?” Hermione's brows lifted. “No,” she lied. “I - I just have a bad feeling about....”

“Don't lie to me,” said Harry. “You bit Alice's head off awhile ago and now you just did it again.”

“I could've done it to you for all I know!” Hermione suddenly said, feeling confusingly angry.

“Hermione!” Harry said, startled. He let go and looked at her quizzically. “What's wrong with you?”

“There is nothing wrong with me, Harry,” Hermione implored. “Nothing!”

“Then why are you so out-of-character?” Harry's brows furrowed.

“I'm not out-of-character!” Hermione retorted defensively.

“Calm down, won't you?” Harry said calmly,

` Hermione sighed and closed her eyes. She pressed her hands to her face and said.

“Oh, my Merlin... I'm sorry, Harry....” she said quietly. “I - I just don't know what came over me....”

“Hey,” said Harry, moving closer to her, “It's alright, Hermione... it's alright.”

Hermione dropped her hands and saw Harry put an arm around her shoulder, his cheek pressing onto her temple affectionately. Hermione leaned back in response and wiped her eyes.

”Now let's forget about this and have milk and cookies.” Harry said, pulling away. “I think that'll cheer you up.”

Hermione smiled and suddenly remembered something.

“Actually, I remembered that I should do something....”

“Oh,” said Harry, frowning. “Well… see you around.”

Harry smiled at her weakly and left for dining room.

“Yeah, you too.” Hermione said quietly.

Hermione silently dragged her feet to the living room and passed across it towards a corridor that led to the bathroom. She found herself at the end of the corridor where the entrance to the bathroom was to her left and a double door was located right in front of her.

It's been so long….

Hermione opened the double doors to reveal a closet filled with objects ranging from boxes, an old canvas, a stack of books, a wheel of a bicycle and more. Hermione rummaged around and found what she was looking for.

“There it is!” she said.

She walked backwards, pulling out a large bag that was shaped like a violin from the closet. Hermione took a minute to examine the bag, stroking a hand on the curved angle that adorned the side of the bag.

It's been a while….

A few minutes later, Hermione found herself inside her bedroom. She cast Muffliato at her door, sat on her bed and eyed on the violin bag.

One of her unspoken talents that Hermione did not share to Harry or Ron was that she was music-literate. She wasn't too entitled to explore her music roots due to her studies but whenever she had the time, she would either sing or play the piano.

Her most recent instrument that she started learning was the instrument that was standing before her.

Hermione slowly picked up the bag, placed it on her lap and unzipped it. She turned the lid over to find a violin lying inside. It looked quite old but the wood glistened against the light that the bedroom window radiated.

“It looks all good…” Hermione said, smiling down at it.

Under the lid, Hermione saw a label that said “J. Thropp” in gold lettering. Turning away from the word, Hermione took out the violin from its resting place, blew the residue of dust and propped the instrument on her lap. She then reached for the bow and slid a finger on the horsehair that was strung to the wood. Hermione then pulled out the solid resin from her pocket and rubbed it on the horsehair string circumspectly.

Afterwards, she placed the violin, the bow and the resin at her side, unzipped the front pockets of the violin bag to find a piece of paper filled with musical notes.

Hermione looked at the heading and read the title:

“Moon River”

Without hesitation, Hermione stood up, crouched over and looked under her bed. She finally saw what she wanted and pulled out a black metal music stand that held musical pieces while the musician plays.

She unfolded the stand at the floor right beside the foot of her bed, placed the musical piece on it and took the violin and bow with her.

Remembering her lessons, she peered into the piece, placed the violin under chin, held the bow against the strings and slowly, she played a melodious sound that was soothing to her ears.

It's really been awhile….

Hermione played for a while and began to enjoy it. It finally dawned to her how much she loved playing the violin….

A sudden empty feeling grew inside her while she played. She wasn't planning to stop… she kept on playing. But this feeling inside her… it reminded her why she started playing the violin two years ago.

Keep playing, Hermione.

Hermione played the chorus and kept her face concentrated.

* * *

“When is he coming, Kiwi?” Alice asked, her hands placed innocently on her lap while she sat on her chair.

“He'll arrive,” said Hermione, pacing around the living room timidly. “John tends to be late….”

“I hope he's nice,” said Alice.

“He's one of the nicest people I have ever met.” Hermione said. “Whenever I'm in trouble, he's always there for me.”

“Oh,” said Alice, looking at her knees. “I hope he'll like me.”

“John will like anyone who's nice to him.” Hermione assured. “Just be yourself!”

Alice sighed and smiled at her cousin.

“I guess meeting a friend of my favorite cousin wouldn't hurt, would it?”

“It won't,” said Hermione, “He's a bit shy at times so you have to catch up on that.”

“Oh, I will,” said Alice eagerly. “I just hope he gets here in time.”

“Don't worry, Allie,” said Hermione sitting on the couch. “Don't be too nervous.”

“I know,” said Alice, “I just had a lot of not-so-good memories of meeting new people….”

“Hey,” said Hermione in a caring tone, “John won't care about it.”

“B-but what if - ?”

“He won't, Allie.” Hermione cut her off. “He will like you no matter what to the point that I'll make him if he doesn't!”

Alice giggled.

“You must really want this Johnny to meet me, don't you?”

“Well,” said Hermione, pulling a lock of her brown hair behind her ear, “I always wanted my friends to meet you… I mean, you're the closest thing I have to a sister and I want my friends to meet my sister.”

Alice's lip trembled slightly but to Hermione's relief, she didn't press on her emotions.

“So…” said Hermione slowly, “what do you want to do when Johnny comes here?”

“Anything,” said Alice. “But no sports, please.”

Hermione and Alice laughed and stopped when they heard the knock of the door.

“Oh, Johnny's here!” Hermione squealed. “You wait here, Allie.”

Hermione ran to the front door and pulled the knob open revealing her pale green-eyed friend, John, who wore brown shorts and a white cotton shirt to match the summer temperature.

“Johnny!” Hermione greeted, holding the door open for him to enter. “Come in, come in!”

“Hi, Hermione,” John said, smiling at Hermione, looking flustered. “You said you wanted me to come here immediately over the phone -”

“Yes,” said Hermione excitedly, “I want you to meet someone!”

“M-meet someone?” John cocked up an eyebrow.

“Yeah,” said Hermione cheerfully. “She's my cousin.”

“I think I remember you saying that your cousin will arrive from the United States.” John said thoughtfully, rubbing his chin as he walked in the threshold.

“That's her,” said Hermione. “Now come on, she's very excited to meet you!”

“W-wait,” said John hesitantly. “H-Hermione, you know me when it comes to meeting new people….”

John scratched the back of his jet-black hair. Hermione frowned at him anxiously.

“Please, Johnny,” Hermione pleaded. “She's very nice and I want you to know her as much as I do. She's like my sister!”

“But what if she finds me goofy?”

“She won't.” Hermione said, “Right now, she's thinking whether you might find her boring.”

“Really?” John's eyes widened for a second, “Hmmm… I never got someone to get nervous over meeting me before….”

Hermione made a dry laugh and said, “Well, don't push it. So, what do you say?”

“Er….”

Out of desperation, Hermione took John by his right hand with her own two ones and smiled at him tenderly. She pouted her lips pleadingly as John's face turned to a shade of red.

“Oh, alright!” said John in defeat, halfheartedly pulling away from Hermione's grip. “I'll do it….”

“Thank you, Johnny,” said Hermione, clapping her hands together. “Just wait a second -“

Hermione walked towards the living room where Alice was waiting, looking both eager and anxious.

“Allie, I would like you to meet someone very special to me.” Hermione said.

Alice smiled weakly and nodded to her cousin. Hermione nodded in response and spoke.

“John?”

Around the corner that blocked Alice's view from the front door, a boy came in the living room with pale green eyes and jet-black hair.

Hermione smiled broadly at John who looked at Alice with a look of utmost interest.

“John,” said Hermione, gesturing to Alice, “This is Alice. She's my cousin from New York.”

John walked slowly towards Alice until he was a meter apart from her. Since she was sitting down on a chair, John looked down at her. The two looked at each other timidly.

“H-hi, Alice.” John said, his voice sounding unusually croaky. “I'm John.”

To Hermione's surprise, Alice blushed furiously as she giggled in her hands which she pressed to her mouth. John appeared confused, scratching the back of his head nervously. He turned to Hermione for support and Hermione nodded encouragingly.

“Go on,” Hermione said quietly.

John turned to Alice who stopped giggling. She looked at John and spoke.

“Er… hi, John.” Alice said sheepishly, “Er - wow, I - I didn't know you were - er - tall….”

Hermione smirked at how her two best friends interacted.

“T-tall?” John said quizzically. “I - I didn't know I was tall….”

“You look tall to me,” said Alice happily, turning pink. “I - In America, everyone finds that quite nice….”

Hermione widened her eyes at the way Alice blushed. It was at this moment that Hermione knew what was going on. The bookworm grinned mischievously at her cousin and at John who was now talking.

“Er… that's good to know - er -”

“Allie,” said Alice instantly, “You can call me `Allie'.”

Hermione wanted to laugh at how Alice bit her lip nervously but to her delight, John responded before she could do so.

“A-Allie? T-that's a nice nickname.” He admitted randomly. “Er - I mean, I like the name!”

He chuckled nervously and looked at his shoelace. Hermione then spotted a tinge of pink on his face and it also dawned to her that John is as nervous as Alice was.

“T-thank you,” Alice said, putting her hands together adorably. “I - er - know your nickname…. It's `Johnny', right?”

“Yeah,” said John. “Erm…. I did not know Hermione's cousin looked like her….”

Alice and Hermione laughed.

“We get that a lot,” said Hermione.

“Yeah,” said Alice, “But I trust you won't get us mixed up.”

“I - I won't,” said John instantly, trying to sound apologetic. “I - er - I didn't mean to hurt somebody's feelings -”

“You're not hurting anyone's feelings,” said Alice apologetically, “I was just saying that because people usually mistake me for Kiwi.”

“Kiwi?” John asked.

“Allie's nickname for me,” said Hermione, blushing a bit.

“Never knew that,” said John amusingly, turning to Alice, “Is there anything you know about Hermione?”

“Oh, loads!” said Alice, looking obviously relieved that they were making conversation.

Hermione laughed nervously and felt quite happy that her best friends were talking.

“Let's not make your friendship be based on my secrets, Allie,” said Hermione defensively.

“I'm sorry, Kiwi,” said Alice sweetly then looked at John. “So….”

“I won't get you two mixed up, I swear,” said John then added, “Allie….”

“It's alright if you make a mistake… Johnny.” Alice replied timidly.

John chuckled nervously and glanced at Hermione who was overlooking them with amusement.

“So - er…” said John, “It's a pleasure meeting you,” he raised his hand to shake.

“The pleasure is all mine,” Alice said, taking John by the hand to shake.

Hermione smiled amusingly at her friends, their faces looking quite pink than usual. It became extremely obvious to Hermione that she got what she wanted even if it's more than what she intended: her two best friends liked each other… a lot.

This is going to be fun!

* * *

“Wow, Hermione….”

Hermione stopped bowing and turned her head to see Harry looking at her with awe. She noted that he was holding a plate of cookies and a glass of milk.

“Harry,” Hermione said hoarsely, standing up slowly as she placed the violin inside the case.

“Hey, hey, what are you doing?” Harry said quickly, putting down the milk and cookies on the dresser. “Why are you putting it away?”

“I just don't feel like to do it anymore,” Hermione replied, zipping the bag.

“Was it because of me?”

“No,” Hermione said, glancing at Harry apologetically, walking up to him. “No, Harry. It's not because of you -”

“Then why stop playing the moment I entered?” Harry asked, grinning at her.

“It could be anyone, Harry.” Hermione said.

“You seem bothered,” said Harry.

“I'm not.”

Harry did not reply but looked at Hermione with a sort of gaze that made Hermione feel like he was reading her mind. Whatever the case may be, Harry picked up the plate of cookies and turned to Hermione again.

“I brought milk and cookies… Alice said you really love them.” Harry said.

Hermione looked at the cookies and felt her insides bubble again.

“How long were you listening to me play?” she asked, ignoring the cookies.

“Er, the violin?” Harry placed the cookies down. “Erm… long enough….” He said, wincing. “Sorry.”

“Don't be,” said Hermione. “Actually… you really shouldn't see that… I mean, I'm really not that good.”

“You were good,” said Harry. “At least better than the girl who lived next door back at Privet Drive,” he scoffed. “She couldn't play a note even if her life depended on it.”

Hermione brushed her hair to the back of her ear then nodded to Harry. It's not that she didn't like him around right now but she wished he went back to Alice.

“So, what's up?” Harry asked, sitting on her bed.

“The sky,” said Hermione dully, sitting beside Harry.

“Very funny,” Harry said. “I'm serious.”

“Nothing much,” said Hermione, stretching her legs. “I'm just excited….”

“You don't sound excited.” Harry replied, looking at her.

“I mean, three days from now, we are going to celebrate Christmas at my grandfather's country home.” Hermione explained, feeling quite happier telling this to Harry.

“Really?” Harry said, his eyes widening. “That sounds great!”

“I know!” said Hermione. “I can't wait to see my Grand-Père.”

“Grand-Père?”

“I call him that as he calls me -”

“Kiwi?” Harry grinned.

Hermione blushed and hit Harry on the shoulder out of nowhere.

“Hey!” Harry said, rubbing his shoulder. “That hurt!”

“Don't call me that!” Hermione said irritably.

“Why not?” Harry stood up and faced her. “Because in my opinion, Kiwi -”

“I told you not to call -”

“- I think it's one of the most amusing things I ever heard from you.”

Hermione leered at Harry and sighed in defeat. There was no stopping him from calling her that now.

“Why didn't you tell us about your nicknames anyway?” Harry said kindly, sitting beside her again. “I mean, Hermonica and Kiwi are way better than what Grawp gave you.”

“At least Grawp called me Hermy out of his lack of English.” Hermione said lamely.

“To be frank,” said Harry, sounding quite hesitant. “I think your Kiwi nickname makes you look….”

“Look what?”

“Cute,” said Harry, turning to her.

Hermione turned away from his eyes and stared at her lap. Nothing could tell her on how red she was. This was the second time Harry has called her adorable or cute.

What was he playing at?

“Since when do you call me cute?” Hermione asked, her insecurity getting the best of her.

“I don't know,” said Harry, his voice sounded defensive. “It's just that I am finally seeing who you really were before you became a witch… the pictures, the nicknames… it reminded me that you too had a `little girl' childhood.”

He turned to Hermione.

“I think it's adorable, that's all.”

Hermione held her cheeks to hide her blushes. Never in her life had she heard Harry compliment her this much. She giggled nervously and spoke.

“Oh, Harry,” she said in a high voice. “I'm… flattered….”

“You're funny when you're nervous,” said Harry.

“I'm not nervous!” Hermione retorted.

“Your voice is high enough to give it away, Kiwi.”

“Stop calling me that!” Hermione cried, turning redder than ever.

“Why do they call you that?” Harry asked, ignoring Hermione's last words. “Kiwi? How did that came to be?”

Hermione paused and stared at Harry's amused face. It looked obvious that he wanted to see her appear this shameful.

“Go ahead,” said Harry, chuckling. “Take your time.”

“You really need to find a hobby, Harry,” Hermione seethed.

“I break rules,” said Harry, “Apparently, it looks like talking about anything Kiwi-related is against the rules so yeah, maybe I'm doing my hobby quite fine, thank you.”

It was unavoidable, Hermione thought. The best way to get rid of this topic is to tell him everything no matter how much she was traumatized by the story.

“You want to know?” Hermione asked roughly.

“Yeah,” said Harry.

Hermione inhaled and exhaled.

“They all call me `Kiwi' because…” she bit her lip and sniffed. “…because… I'm allergic to kiwifruit.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, I am allergic… but that's not the end of it,” she said, placing a hand on her cheek, “I - I er… there was a time… my Aunt Glinda baked pies for us when she visited… and t-then….”

She sniffed and rubbed the tip of her eye with her finger.

“Then what?”

“I loved pies… I really do… I was so hungry that the minute Aunt Glinda served my piece, I ate it whole.”

Hermione bit her lip as her eyes started to feel hot.

“T-that's… that's when I realized… that… t-that….”

“That what?”

“I ate a kiwi pie,” she said in a near-sob whisper. “I - I nearly died… the allergic reaction was too much and I was in the hospital for days!”

Hermione felt deeply ashamed that Harry had to see her tears fall down. She quickly wiped them.

“S-sorry,” said Hermione in a throaty voice. “I - I just t-thought it was terrible….”

“Hey,” said Harry scooting over to her, “You can cry all you want,” he smiled. “I mean, it's your feelings and I think crying over something like a near-death experience is okay. Besides, you're my best friend. I have to understand why you're like this….”

She sniffed and chuckled. Hermione smiled at the ground and had the sudden wonder if Harry was going to give her a cheer-up hug.

“So how did it affect the family?”

“Aunt Glinda was mortified.” Hermione said, “Because it was the first time she saw me ever. I was five years old when I met her, by the way. Then she wanted to make a good impression for me so she baked pies for me because my mum, who is my aunt's sister, told her that I loved pies.”

“Did you hate her for that?”

“No!” Hermione cried, “When I was at the hospital, she kept on visiting me and whenever my mum and dad were at work, she would stay right by my side the whole time….”

“Wow… she really must love you for that despite how she led you to food poisoning.”

“It wasn't food poisoning, Harry,” Hermione said sternly. “What matters now is that even with that incident, I love my Aunt Glinda. She and Aunt Elphie are my favorite aunts.”

“You know what also matters from that story?” Harry asked, moving closer to Hermione that they were side-by-side.

“What?” she turned to him.

“You're still alive and well,” he said and put an arm around her in a one-arm squeeze.

“Harry, you really don't have to say that,” said Hermione, feeling unusually affronted but pleased at Harry's concern.

“I have to… I mean, we would never meet and become best friends,” he smiled at her.

“Mind you, you and Ron saved my life,” Hermione said.

“Ironic, eh?” Harry chuckled. “You nearly died twice….”

The two stayed silent for a long stretch of time. Hermione twiddled her fingers together and stared at her window which showed the house of her neighbor, its structure being framed by a green line of Christmas lights against the white snow.

“Can you tell me about your aunts?” Harry asked. “They're all arriving and I think it's best for me to know who they are. You know, just to avoid any awkward moments.”

“Oh… we can do that,” said Hermione. “Erm… for the record, Aunt Elphaba or Aunt `Elphie', as I call her, is my father's sister. Aunt Glinda, like I said before, is my mother's sister.”

“The names… sound awfully familiar,” said Harry.

“Everyone says that,” Hermione giggled. “Anyhow, the two don't live here in England. They live abroad.”

“Where?”

“New York City,” said Hermione lamely. “Most of my relatives live in America….”

“No wonder Allie sounds American….” Harry said, smirking.

“Yeah, no wonder,” Hermione agitatedly said. “Anyway, I'm the only one here.”

“That seems pretty dull,” said Harry.

“Tell me about it,” Hermione turned to Harry, “The only relatives I have here in England are my Aunt Nessa, my father and Aunt Elphie's sister, and her husband, Uncle Boq.”

“Do they have children?”

“No,” Hermione said, “They just married last year but Aunt Nessa is expecting a baby soon so here's hoping.”

“How about the children of your other aunts? Apart from Alice, that is.”

“Alice is the daughter of my Aunt Elphie,” said Hermione ticking off her fingers, “Then we have her brother, Jericho…” she said this in an acid tone.

“Jericho doesn't seem to be in your favor.”

“He's too much in tune with his stupid stuck-up attitude for me to care,” Hermione spat.

“Moving on,” Harry said quickly.

“S-sorry,” Hermione said remorsefully. “Er… after Jericho… we have twin girls, Maureen and Doreen.” Hermione smiled, “I love them so much. They look up to me as if I were there big sister. We call them `Mimi' and `Didi', respectively.”

“What's the name of their father?”

“Uncle Fierro,” Hermione said. “He and Aunt Elphie met during their days at the university.”

“Anything else you want to tell me about your Aunt Elphie?”

“She loves green,” said Hermione, nodding thoughtfully. “She has always been a green person… and for some reason, she collects broomsticks.”

“Are you sure she isn't a witch?”

“She isn't,” Hermione said dismissively. “If she was then she would've been a graduate of a wizarding school. As far as I know, she studied at a Muggle university… but she has a collection of hundred brooms, I can tell you.”

“A hundred brooms?” Harry said in surprise.

“That's my Aunt Elphie,” said Hermione.

“Wow… she sounds wicked.”

“I know,” Hermione giggled.

She quite enjoyed that she was sharing everything about her family to Harry. It was both a relief that she can share it to Harry without worrying about anything at all.

“How about your other aunt? Aunt Glinda?”

“She's my mother's best friend,” said an adorably high voice from the door.

Hermione and Harry looked up and saw Alice standing by the threshold of the bedroom door. Hermione quickly glared at her cousin as Alice entered.

“I was wondering where you two went,” said Alice and turned to Hermione, “I see your taking time into playing the violin, cousin dearest.”

“I'm getting good, you know,” said Hermione coolly.

“I've heard a lot about that from Aunt MonMon,” said Alice. “Did you try bowing right this time?

“Of course,” Hermione said in a steely tone. “I think I recall Aunt Glinda telling me that many times.”

“Looks like after four years, you're still the brainy cousin I have always known.” Alice said, smiling at Hermione and then to Harry.

Hermione followed Alice's gaze and saw Harry smiling at her weakly. She felt somehow affronted at how Harry appeared nervous.

“Hi.” Alice said in the gentlest voice she could ever muster.

“H-Hi,” said Harry, “I - er - did what you asked me t-to do….”

“Aww, you did?” Alice said sweetly, tilting her head adorably.

“What do you mean?” Hermione looked from Harry to Alice puzzlingly.

But neither of the two caught her words since they continued talking as if Hermione said nothing.

“Yeah,” said Harry, standing up, “I - erm - thought it would be good if I did it earlier….”

Hermione raised an eyebrow at the two and glared at Harry at the way he was rubbing the back of his neck anxiously.

“You shouldn't have,” said Alice, turning slightly pink.

“Well, t-that way,” Harry said slowly, “I took care of one thing so you can have one less thing to worry about.”

“Wow,” Alice said, glancing at Hermione with amusement. “You're too sweet, Harry.”

Alice reached out and held Harry by the arm which triggered Harry to chuckle nervously.

For all the reason in her heart, Hermione wanted to lunge at Alice and pull her hair out of her skull until Alice's high voice screams in throes of pain, her pretty face glistened in tears…. The thought of that was just so sadistic.

“Um, excuse me,” said Hermione, standing up to full height. “Sorry for interrupting but Harry and I were talking, thank you.”

“I'm aware,” Alice said icily, her cerulean blue eyes boring into Hermione's chocolate brown ones. “So I was wondering if I can talk to Harry for a moment.”

“No,” said Hermione instantly.

“Er, Hermione?” Harry stared at her cautiously.

“Sorry?”

“You heard me, Alice,” said Hermione irritably. “I'm talking to Harry first and I wish we could finish our conversation before you get into it.”

“Hermione,” Alice said, “it's only going to be a short talk -”

“Make me laugh,” Hermione muttered.

“- and I promise you it won't take too long.” Alice finished, staring at Hermione coldly.

“If you take more than one minute,” Hermione said but was cut off by Harry.

“I - I'll go,” said Harry quickly.

“W-what?” Hermione gawked at Harry, her face feeling rather hot.

“I'll go with Allie,” said Harry, “I mean, she has something to talk about, right?”

“I do,” said Alice happily. “In fact, it won't take too long, cousin dearest so don't cry over spilled milk, alright?”

Hermione held her all to stop herself from punching Alice in the face.

“I won't,” Hermione seethed.

“I'll be at the living room, Harry,” said Alice, walking out of the door, leaving Harry and Hermione alone once more.

She wasn't hesitant. Hermione immediately walked away from Harry and crossed her arms angrily as she stared outside the snow flecked window.

The nerve of him! He chose that - that scarlet woman over me?!

Hermione shook her head and sighed in defeat.

“Er - Hermione?” Harry asked, his voice sounded unusually cautious.

“What?” Hermione said, her voice sounded booming and it had a tinge of anger in it.

“Hey, look at me, please.” Harry said.

Hermione obeyed and turned to her best friend.

“What is it?” Hermione said.

“I - er - can't help but notice that you and Allie are not… erm… close….”

Hermione blinked and did not answer Harry. She turned away and bit her lip broodingly. For years she tried to avoid discussing her hate for Alice to anyone who asked…. But with Harry asking, should she tell?

Remember the last time you kept a secret from a best friend.

An emotional pain struck her gut at that thought. It somehow made her alarmed. Should she tell him?

“Hermione?” Harry appeared at her side. “Are you alright?”

Hermione did not reply again but continued to look out the window.

“Is there something you want to tell me about Alice?”

Hermione looked at Harry and sighed.

“There's nothing wrong, Harry… Alice and I are just two rival cousins who still -” she bit her lip regretfully, “- love each other.”

“But -”

“Ron told me about your hate for Dudley and you never discuss that with me.” Hermione said in a matter-of-factly tone.

“Hey, why are you so angry?” Harry asked in aghast.

“I'm not angry, Harry.” Hermione said though her voice sounded fuming. “So why don't you just drop whatever I'm feeling for Alice and go out there and see if she has something that might interest you!”

“Hermione!” Harry said, making Hermione stop. “What's got into you?!”

“It's nothing!” Hermione said, her voice in a high tone. “I'm j-just tired - yeah, I'm tired!”

A silence followed between the two. Hermione winced at how she reacted. It wasn't best to do that… especially when Harry looked doubtful at the moment.

Great job, Kiwi….

Harry's doubtful look turned to a shaking of the head from him. Hermione watched him as he shook his head impatiently and to her surprise, he turned and walked towards the door.

“Harry,” Hermione said.

Harry stopped on his tracks and looked at her.

“I - I'm sorry,” she said, biting her lip. “I - I didn't mean to be so harsh -”

“I know,” said Harry wryly. “I'm not mad or anything but I have to note that you shouldn't keep that attitude up if you want a happy Christmas. Enjoy your cookies….”

And with that, Harry left the room without a word. Hermione slowly raked her brown hair and grimaced at Harry's reaction.

It's happening again… it's like four years ago….

“Oh, Harry….” Hermione moaned pitifully.

Thinking that it was the best, Hermione walked over to her dresser and took a cookie from the plate. She bit off the edge of the chocolate chip treat and drank her glass of milk.

It's been four years since she lost her whole life in the Muggle world… everything that meant something to her… at first, she had the wizarding world where Harry and Ron existed as her best friends and the Muggle world where her life was equally the same. But now… it's just Harry and Ron… at this rate, she promised herself that she wouldn't reiterate whatever happened to her Muggle life with her best friends from Hogwarts.

But it's happening again with Harry….

Hermione gulped and reminded herself that Harry will never leave her no matter what. He's a good-hearted soul that Hermione thought it would be impossible for him to act anything harsh.

Keep it real, Hermione… Harry… will always love you.

“Would he always?” were the words that came from Hermione's lips. She immediately gasped and took an intake of breath.

“Oh, God,” Hermione said, holding her forehead. “I - I didn't mean that…. I did not mean that!”

Hermione dropped the cookie on the plate, sat on her bed and looked at the violin.

Nothing will happen again… just think that and you'll be fine….

The Christmas air slid across the window as Hermione brooded on. Maybe she was right… maybe she's just too clung to the past that she's thinking too much about a possible jeopardized act towards her friendship with Harry.

And with that comfortable thought, Hermione stood from her bed and ate the rest of the cookies.

* * *

Hermione and Harry spent the rest of the afternoon unpacking. It wasn't a very talky session since Hermione knew that Harry was a bit annoyed at her after their last talk. The two unpacked in silence in Hermione's bedroom while Hedwig, finally free from her cage, perched herself on the surface of Hermione's dresser. Hermione dragged her trunk on the foot of her bed like how she placed it back at the Hogwarts dormitories.

It was strangely bothersome for her to think that she and Harry were not talking at the moment. Silence between the two happened before but this time was different… Hermione transfixed on the idea why it felt so and realized that she was just running around the dark of her thoughts.

Harry, on the other hand, unpacked most of his stuff and transferred them in the guest's bedroom. They finally decided on where Harry will sleep since the guest's bedroom was bigger and had more beds than Hermione's bedroom. It was all good except for one detail that didn't bode well for Hermione: Alice was sleeping there too.

“This is going to be so much fun!” Hermione heard Alice's voice from the room across the hall as she closed her trunk. She lifted her head in time to see Harry carry a bunch of his clothes into the guestroom door which faced Hermione's room giving her a partial view of the guestroom.

“You can sleep on the bed over there,” said Alice, Hermione saw her point at the unseen bed. “While I sleep over here….” She plopped herself on the bed nearest to her.

Hermione rolled her eyes and picked up her bundle of wizards robes and placed them on the shelf.

“You know, Harry,” Alice's voice said.

“You know, Harry,” Hermione mimicked in a mockingly high squeaky voice.

“- we should play `I Never',” Alice continued, obviously oblivious to Hermione's insult.

“I never?” Harry's voice asked.

Hermione peeked out of her door and saw, through the hall and the open door of the guestroom, Harry sitting on the bed with Alice, conversing with her.

“Here,” said Alice, taking a plate of cookies on her end table. “The object of the game is to get to know the other person. I will admit that I never did this or that.”

“And?”

“If you have done it, what I claimed that I never did, you eat a cookie. Got it?”

“Er…” Harry said, scratching the back of his head.

“For example,” said Alice, “I never wore men's underwear.”

Harry stared at her confusingly.

“That means you can eat a cookie, Harry,” said Alice pleasantly. “Because you wear men's underwear!”

Hermione scoffed, turned away and stared into the reflection of her mirror when she heard Harry's reply.

“Oh!” Harry nodded, “I think I get it now.” He picked up a cookie and bit its side.

“See? It's easy!” Alice said, “Your turn.”

Hermione's brows furrowed as Harry said, “I never had long shoulder length hair.”

Inadvertently, Hermione touched the tip of her brown hair and noticed it was shoulder length as Alice's.

“That's a good start,” Alice said, taking a bite of her cookie. “Okay…. I never suffered from any visual acuity except for twenty-twenty.”

There was a long silence then a sound of cookies being bitten.

“You got me,” said Harry.

“It wasn't too hard to tell,” said Alice beautifully. “But I have to admit… my vision's been a bit sucky so I use these.”

Hermione knew what Alice was talking about even without looking around the corner to look at Alice taking out her reading glasses.

“You have nice glasses,” said Harry's voice.

“Thank you,” said Alice. “A lot of people say that I look weird in them.”

“Er….” Harry said nervously. “I - er - don't think you look bad… I mean, you look nice to me.”

Hermione's reflection bit its lip painfully.

“Wow… not even my friends back at college admits that… thanks.”

“Er - no problem.” Harry said, chuckling.

“You're very sweet, you know that?”

The anger in her mind couldn't control herself. Hermione immediately, left her room and marched off down the hallway and went across the hall. She stood by the threshold of the guestroom where Alice and Harry were, a plate of cookies sitting between them on the bed, and said.

“Shouldn't you two be unpacking?” Hermione said bossily.

“We're done,” said Alice, gesturing to the side of her bed, “Harry helped here with my luggage so I was able to finish earlier and since he was such a nice boy -” she patted his knee, “- I helped him with his luggage.”

Harry smiled gingerly at Alice and looked at his fumbling fingers. Hermione felt somehow hurt that he didn't bother to look at her.

“I see then,” Hermione said stiffly. “Well… I'll be off.”

Hermione spun around and walked down the hallway and stopped on her tracks. She bit her knuckles worriedly and felt the hurt grow….

He is not like him….

“What was that all about?” said the voice of Alice.

The bookworm quickly took a step back and leaned against the wall adjacent to the open door of the guestroom.

“Which one?”

“That? You didn't seem to, um, notice my cousin.”

“Erm… Hermione and I just had a little argument, that's all.”

Hermione sighed sadly and felt relieved that Harry admitted it. She was about to walk away but the temptation of listening in more grew when Alice replied.

“A quick footnote, Harry,” said Alice intelligently. “You shouldn't sever ties to your best friends.”

What was this? Was Alice speaking on Hermione's behalf?

“Because Hermione probably wouldn't last long without one.”

It was too good to be true.

“I know,” said Harry. “Look, I really don't want to talk about it….”

“Whatever floats your boat,” said Alice happily. “Anyway… er - where were we? Oh yeah! - My turn… um… I never play on a broomstick….”

“What?” Harry said in a surprise tone.

Hermione slapped a hand on her face and remembered that she didn't tell Harry this one tiny detail about her cousin.

“Broomstick,” said Alice vaguely, “You know… flying?”

“B-but -”

“You didn't know I have knowledge about my cousin's witchcraft?” Alice said teasingly, “Well, obviously, she told me and once I saw you, I had a hunch you were her classmate in Hogwarts.”

“Hermione never said anything like that….” Harry said lamely.

“It's not her duty to do so,” said Alice.

“So you know about Quidditch?”

“Hermione sent me a book about it a year after her first year there… she told me loads….”

“Wow…. I - I did not expect that you would know….”

“I'm full of surprises!” said Alice. “Besides, I'm surprise you know a lot about - er - what do you call that? Non-magic people?”

“Muggle,” said Harry.

“Yeah, that one. I was surprised that you knew about `Muggle' stuff….”

“Well, I'm full of surprises,” said Harry sarcastically.

“Oh, now you're using my own words against me?” Alice replied jokingly.

“Yeah, I was.” Harry said courageously.

“Ha ha,” Alice chuckled. “You're too much, you know that?”

The sound of a mouth biting to cookies drummed Hermione's ears.

“Fair enough…. Anyway, my turn,” said Harry jokily. “I never went to Disneyland.”

“Thrice,” said Alice, biting her cookie. “I just love it there…. Okay, here's one….”

Hermione looked on her shoulder and realized the unusual silence of her cousin as if Alice was thinking through her next words.

“I never….” she said thoughtfully, “...moved on wheels.”

Her brows furrowed confusingly and heard Harry's mouth chomping down a cookie.

“My cousin gave me a set of rubbish rollerblades years ago,” said Harry. “You know, he thought it would be a good laugh. Anyway, I moved around with them until they finally broke. Don't tell me you haven't used roller-skates? You seem to be the type.”

“To tell you the truth, I never did anything like that until I turned fifteen…” Alice said darkly.

“Really?” Harry asked.

The pace of Hermione's heart increased. She never knew Alice would bring this up again… not now… not ever.

“Yeah but it's like complications of - er - providing myself a set,” she laughed.

“Oh….”

Hermione heard enough. She left the two to their business and found herself in the second floor bathroom, sitting on the closed lid of the toilet, thinking of old memories.

As much as she hated it, as much as her hatred for Alice bubbled inside her… she can't help but miss everything about Alice after what she said a couple of minutes ago.

* * *

“Kiwi,” Alice said, as she approached Hermione in the living room.

“Allie,” Hermione gasped, “I thought you were in the front yard with John?”

“I was,” said Alice, smiling. “He went home now.”

“I'm tired,” said Hermione, leaning her head against the couch's backrest. “I never knew you liked strolling around the neighborhood!”

Alice blushed.

“W-well, I - I,” she placed her hands on her lap. “I really don't….”

“Why?”

“John liked to walk around….” said Alice quietly.

Hermione observed her cousin's timid behavior with interest. The way Alice stared at her fumbling fingers dreamily and how she glanced out the window with a sense of wanting.

For the past few hours, Hermione, John and Alice walked around the neighborhood to get some “fresh air” as John calls it. John suggested this and Hermione, who was obviously protective of her delicate cousin Alice, decided against it but Alice immediately agreed. It turned out to be an enjoyable walk with Alice and John talking the whole time while Hermione smirked from behind.

“It's been days…. How do you like Johnny, so far?” Hermione asked casually.

“I d-don't have a crush on him!” said Alice defensively.

“Since when did I say anything about a crush, Allie?” Hermione asked, her eyebrow rising amusingly. “I never said anything like that!”

Alice turned to a deep shade of red and placed her hands on her cheeks.

“I - I didn't mean that.... oh no....” Alice moaned shamefully.

Hermione smiled and moved closer to Alice.

“Is there something you want to tell me, Allie?” Hermione asked slowly, enjoying every minute of her cousin's timid behavior.

Alice giggled nervously and shook her head vigorously.

“N-nothing, Kiwi....” Alice said calmly. “Nothing....”

“I think someone likes Johnny -”

“I don't!” Alice squeaked, her trademark high voice getting squeakier than usual. “W-well, I mean I - I -”

Hermione flashed a skeptical look at Alice which silenced her.

“Alright!” said Alice in defeat. “I admit it!” she blushed furiously. “I - I think I like… Johnny….”

“Oooooh!” Hermione squealed, bouncing on the couch. “I knew it ever since the first time you met!”

“Don't push it, Kiwi!” Alice cried, blushing further. “Y-you know how emotional I get!”

“But this is huge, Allie,” Hermione smiled, “You have a crush on my best friend!”

“Kiwi!” Alice squeaked, turning redder as they went. “Stop that!”

“Awwww, is Allie getting embarrassed?”

Alice pouted and looked sulky. Hermione knew well that Alice was very sensitive and at times, she enjoyed it when Alice looked helpless. It was too adorable.

“You're mean,” Alice said sulkily, her adorably gentle voice becoming profound.

“Oh, Allie, I didn't mean it,” said Hermione, walking over to hug her cousin. “I'm just happy, that's all!”

“I know….” Alice said softly. “Do you think he likes me?”

“I think he does,” said Hermione, sitting back on the couch. “He couldn't keep his eyes off you!”

“Really?” Alice said, her eyes beaming at Hermione.

“I think so,” said Hermione in a tone of definiteness, smirking. “Well, who can't like you? You're very pretty.”

Alice didn't reply but nodded shyly.

“Not that pretty….” Alice said.

“You are, Allie,” said Hermione, “Everyone in the family thinks you're the prettiest Granger!”

“I'm not!” Alice said, “You are pretty too!”

Hermione scoffed, “Who, me? The girl with big front teeth? I doubt it.”

“But people say we look alike,” said Alice. “And if you say I'm pretty then I can say you are.”

Hermione giggled.

“Whatever floats your boat, Allie.”

Ding dong.

“I'll get it,” said Hermione, walking to the front door.

Hermione reached the door, opened it and was surprised there was no one there.

“Hello?” Hermione peered out of the door, seeing nothing but the afternoon sunlight that blanketed the road in an orange slab of light.

Strange… no one's here - oh!

Below her sat three letters…. Letters that looked awfully familiar.

Oh my….

It dawned to her that the three letters were labeled with the same candle wax seal from the other similar letter: the big H being surrounded by four animals.

It's the letter again!

Using her quick mind of deduction, Hermione presumed that the sender sent more letters assuring that Hermione would get them.

Are they expecting a reply from me?

How could that be an option? She hasn't even opened her first letter and here she is, looking down at resends.

Now what?

“Kiwi? Is everything okay?”

“I'm fine,” Hermione called out to Alice, her eyes on the letters.

What are you waiting for? Pick them up!

Hesitantly, the bookworm bent lower and picked up the three letters, she surveyed it and was surprised that her bedroom was still the address the letter was sent to.

What kind of person would send such letters? Should she open them?

She was planning to open the first letter but due to her time with Alice, the letter seems to be nothing but a distant memory that's not worth noting.

Going through the letters again, Hermione saw that it was written in the same emerald green ink with the same handwriting as before. It looked as if it was an exact copy of the last letter! There were no mere differences on every letter to the very last edge. Not a single fiber looked different on the fore.

“Kiwi?” Alice's voice called again, this time it sounded worried.

Hermione returned to her cousin, with the letters clasped between her fingers.

“Who was it?” Alice asked innocently.

“No one,” said Hermione. “B-but I found these….”

She showed Alice the letters. Alice craned her neck from her seat and surveyed them.

“They have your name on it….”

“I know… but the thing is… I got another one like this a week ago.” Hermione explained, sitting on the couch.

“You did?”

“Yes… well, I think the sender is resending the letter to make sure I'll get it -”

“Why would the sender resend it?” Alice asked.

“Er - I did not open the first letter I received.” Hermione winced. “So I guess they're really making sure I get it this time,” she shook the two extra letters to Alice.

“Why won't you open it? Surely there isn't anything there that will harm you, right?”

This was true. Alice has always been a smart girl, Hermione thought. Alice and Hermione were known to be very smart for their age. But for one who wants to know, Alice's intelligence leans more of observation and keen sense while Hermione's intelligence came from facts and figures of books.

“I just… have a bad feeling about this letter, that's all.” Hermione said, looking at the letter.

“Bad feeling?”

“Yeah, bad feeling…” Hermione said, turning the letters around. “Well, because ever since -“

Should she tell Alice about the abnormalities that had happened for the past few years? Hermione trusted Alice so much that it could suffice a comprehension from her.

She might think I'm mad.

“Ever since what?” Alice asked, her voice gentle and serene.

Hermione hesitated. She looked at the letter and glanced to Alice.

Will this be worth her time?

Could be.

“A-Allie?” Hermione said quietly.

“Are you alright, Kiwi?” Alice asked worriedly.

“I'm fine,” said Hermione, smiling at her. “I was just wondering if you can… er… if you can… keep a secret.”

“Of course!” said Alice eagerly, “Anything for you!”

“Alright but….” Hermione craned her neck forward to see the dining room where her mother was writing down papers that were related to dental finances. “Let's talk in my room. We need some privacy.”

It took them a long while to get up to Hermione's bedroom but at long last, they finally made it. Hermione closed shut the door after Alice rolled in. Alice turned to her and gave a look of questioning.

“Well?” she asked in her gentle voice.

“It's….” Hermione winced, realizing how difficult this will be. “Please don't think I'm crazy, Allie.”

“I won't,” said Alice innocently.

After a sigh, Hermione started.

“W-well… you know… these letters… well… erm….”

“Don't be shy, Kiwi,” said Alice, smiling confidently at her, “You can tell me anything.”

Hermione smiled back and knew that if there is anyone who can understand her, it was Alice.

“Okay,” said Hermione, walking across the room, sitting on the surface of her dresser. “Erm… let's say…. Er… years ago…. I - I made Snuggles fly.”

Hermione didn't know why she said it but telling her cousin that she levitated her teddy bear in this fashion sounded stupid.

“I meant that I made Snuggles levitate.” Hermione said quickly.

Alice blinked at Hermione rather cutely. Hermione knew she was confused.

“Levitate?”

“To bring up in the air,” said Hermione, wincing.

“I don't get it,” said Alice.

Hermione sighed.

“What I'm trying to say, Allie, is that I think… I'm doing… things….”

“What things?”

“Things that - er -” she stood up and paced around the room, “- happen that I can't even explain because they're beyond reason!”

“But what is it, Kiwi?” Alice asked anxiously.

Hermione looked at her cousin worriedly. Should she tell her now or back out?

“Please, tell me.” Alice said pleadingly. “If it's bothering you then I'm here to help you… isn't that what sisters do?”

Alice's words struck Hermione emotionally. Never in her life did she want to hug Alice and wish that she was her sister.

“What do you say?” Alice smiled.

Hermione cleared her throat, walked towards Alice and gazed upon her cerulean blue eyes.

“You really want to know?” Hermione asked.

“Yes.”

“D-don't… think different of me when I'm done, okay?” Hermione said, crouching before her sitting cousin.

“I won't,” said Alice, holding her cousin's hand. “I'll never think you any different. I promise.”

“And that you won't distant yourself from me?”

“Why would I do that, Kiwi?” Alice said, beaming at her kindly, “No matter what happens, you'll be with me… like a handprint on my heart.”

And with those words, Hermione knew nothing could go wrong.

* * *

Something was wrong as the afternoon turned into dusk and then dusk into night.

Despite how the Granger household was alive with the Christmas spirit: Christmas music playing from the stereo, Christmas lights twinkling around the interior and exterior, the snow falling friendlily outside, Hermione realized how grim she felt.

It was during dinner that Hermione felt empty. She probably knew why and it was because how Harry didn't speak to her except when he asked her for the mashed potatoes. Alice, in the other hand, was talking to Hermione's parents, expressing how she's enjoying so far and that she's excited for visiting the country home.

This unusual feeling deepened when Alice playfully talked to Harry.

“C'mon, Harry!” said Alice, nudging his shoulder with hers. “Tell Aunt MonMon and Uncle Jac-Jac!”

“Tell us what, dear?” Monica asked, scooping up a generous amount of mashed potatoes.

“Er -“ Harry said, his voice sheepish. “- Allie and I were - er -”

“Snogging?” Jacques asked in a booming voice that sounded both stern and intimidating.

Hermione's eyes widened like dinner plates as Alice and Harry blushed.

“Dad!” Hermione cried.

“What?” Jacques asked, his eyebrows rising, “I'm just being precautious to my niece.”

“B-but - that's uncalled for!” Hermione said, her voice high and squeaky.

“It's both a father and uncle's job,” said Jacques humorously. “But seriously, what did you two do?” He turned to Harry.

Harry, his redness ebbing away, cleared his throat and said, “Er - Alice and I were - erm - cleaning the guestroom.”

“You did?” Monica asked, beaming. “Looks like you saved me from cleaning that place!”

“Harry here thought it was a good idea,” said Alice pensively, grinning at Harry.

“Very sweet of you,” said Monica, turning to Hermione. “You pick good friends, Hermione.”

Hermione smiled weakly at her mother and caught Harry's eye. For a split second, she thought he grinned at her but on a double take; Harry was back to his lamb chops.

“Well then!” said Jacques, “I'm quite impressed, Harry! You give that vibe of energy like my sister.”

“Aunt Elphaba?” Harry asked politely.

“Yes,” said Jacques, “Looks like Hermonica -”

“Hermione,” Hermione muttered under her breath.

“- has been telling you about the family.”

Harry nodded, slowly breaking into a smile.

Hermione looked at Harry sadly and sighed. She took a gulp of her water and finished what was left of her green peas.

“So what have you three been up to?” asked Monica.

“Harry and I were cleaning up the whole guestroom and just bonding to get to know each other,” said Alice enthusiastically, then her voice went back to a normal tone, “We really didn't know what Hermione was up to….”

“You didn't join the cleaning?” Monica asked, turning to Hermione.

“No, I didn't.” Hermione said, giving a quick glance at Alice with annoyance. “I was busy preparing for Grand-père.”

“Speaking of which,” said Jacques, glancing to Alice and Harry, “I suggest you two go pack for the country home. I know you have all day tomorrow but the earlier the better.”

“Don't worry, Uncle,” said Alice sweetly, “Harry and I will get busy tonight.”

“W-what?” Harry asked, flushing.

“I meant packing, silly!” Alice said, leaning on his shoulder briefly. “You're too cute!”

Hermione's stomach lurched when Alice pinched the cheek of her best friend. She wanted to grab her fork and toss it between Alice's eyes.

“Hey, you can do the pinching when I'm not around,” said Jacques jokingly as he chuckled. “Kids these days, really.”

“You said you weren't afraid to put your arm around mum when her parents were around.” Hermione said quietly.

“That's because your mother,” he placed a hand on Monica's. “Is my Holy Grail.”

“Awww,” Monica smiled dearly at Jacques.

Hermione rolled her eyes and turned to Alice again, observing how she smiled at Monica and Jacques.

“Anyway, just take care of my two girls for me, would you kindly, Harry?” Jacques asked happily.

Harry nodded, obviously feeling pleased that he was worth of Jacques' trust. Hermione didn't know whether she should feel good about this or not.

This is so confusing….

“Wow, looks like I'll have a knight in shining armor this year!” said Alice amusingly.

Harry smiled at Alice who smiled back.

“I would love that,” said Harry confidently.

It was at this time Hermione wanted to toss the fork through Harry's glasses and into his skull.

“Any plans for tomorrow?” Alice asked instantly, tearing her eyes away from Harry.

“I have to arrange with Eddie about borrowing his van,” said Jacques, “We will need an extra vehicle to transport everyone to the country home.”

“I'm settling some accounts,” said Monica, “I can't imagine living the holidays with them breathing down my neck.”

“That's good,” said Alice interestedly, “How about you, Harry?”

“Erm… I really… don't know….”

“Ooh! We can build a snowman together!” Alice said excitedly.

“Oh, I almost forgot!” said Monica, “Speaking of snow, I propose you three help in preparing the house before Glinda and Elphaba arrive.”

“Oh, bummer,” said Alice cutely, “Looks like we can do it next time, Harry.”

Even if Hermione didn't see it, she knew Alice reached for Harry's hand to hold since Harry turned red. Feeling possessive over her best friend, Hermione clutched her fork so tightly that she found it almost impossible to not toss it right at Alice's head.

“Are you alright, Hermione?” Monica asked. “You look fidgety.”

“Hermione is fine,” said Alice smartly, “She just got off playing her violin.”

The wondering face that was etched on her mother's face turned into a look of pity. Hermione knew why and did nothing but smile sadly at her then turned to Alice with a look of pure annoyance.

“Violin, eh?” Jacques asked, “Still got the bowing right?”

“Yes, dad,” said Hermione calmly, looked at her unfinished food, shook her head and said, “May I be excused?”

“But you haven't finished -”

“Please?” Hermione said pleadingly, looking at her mother with a looking of wanting. “I'm not really hungry anymore.”

Hermione glanced to Alice and Harry who were busy enjoying themselves with talking. Feeling her irate rising, she nodded to her mother without hearing another word, picked up her plate and left for the kitchen.

She placed her plate on the sink and stared down at it with concentration, listening to Alice's talking.

“She'll be fine, Aunt,” said Alice, “You know she'll go through anything.”

Hermione gripped the sides of the sink and glared at the dripping drop that fell to the sink's metal surface.

She couldn't understand why she was so angry at the moment… the way Harry was there enjoying Alice's company… the way Alice looked triumphant being with him… it was so… so….

Annoying. That… that heathen!

Why was she feeling this?

It was enough that she felt bad that Harry won't talk to her right now but to feel this possessive over Harry?

I have no right to tell who gets to be friends with Harry, Hermione…. You don't.

She raked her brown hair tiredly and closed her eyes. She heard the giggling of Alice and the voice of Harry which seemed inaudible at the moment to her distracted ears.

You have to talk to Harry…. Apologize to him for snapping at him like that….

If she continued to not talk to him, she might not enjoy this holiday at all.

But I don't want him to be with Alice….

Does it matter? Hermione knew well that she can't stop that no matter how gut wrenching it was.

“You really got off to a good start,” she heard her father speak.

“Of course, Uncle Jac-Jac,” said Alice, from the outside of the kitchen. “Harry is nicest guy I ever met! I wish we knew each other long before.”

NO! He's mine! I met him first and you have no right to take him away from me you witch, you wicked witch, you slu -

“NO!” Hermione gasped, jumping backwards causing her to collide with the kitchen counter behind her which hung knives. Her head bumped into the small knife making it fall off its hinge and thrust right onto her backhand.

“Ah!” Hermione winced in pain as the knife fell on the counter surface in a clang. “Ow, ow, ow, ow…” she squeaked, her eyes welling up.

“Hermione?” called the voice of her mother, “Are you alright?”

The wound wasn't deep but that didn't stop her backhand from spewing blood. She quickly washed her hands; the cold winter water stinging her hands.

“Oh, bugger!” Hermione grimaced, soaping her hand.

“What's going on?” said Monica, entering through the batwing doors of the kitchen, “Hermione!”

Hermione turned to see her mother approach to her daughter.

“What happened?”

“I was cut,” said Hermione stiffly, washing her hands.

“Oh, dear,” said Monica, taking Hermione's hands, observing it. “It's not deep… which knife?”

“The cheese knife,” Hermione said dully, wincing as her mother touched her wound.

“Well, nothing that Band-Aid can't fix.” Monica smiled at her but frowned to see Hermione's grim expression. “What's wrong, Hermonica?”

For the first time in a while, Hermione did not protest at her nickname. She lowered her head and shook it.

“Nothing, mum.” Hermione said quietly, slowly pulling her hand away from her mother's grasp. “I'm just… tired, that's all.”

“You've been playing his violin, have you?” Monica asked kindly.

Hermione bit her lip. She knew she would ask this.

“Yes,” said Hermione sadly, rubbing her hand which throbbed slightly. “But only once… just this afternoon.”

“Oh, Hermione,” said Monica, taking Hermione by her cheeks, “I figured after I said Harry reminded me of him, I felt that I hit an emotional spot. I'm sorry.”

Hermione pouted her lips and held back the tears that were welling up now. She didn't want to cry, not now.

“It's okay, mum,” said Hermione, her voice croaky. “I… I just miss him, that's all….”

“He loved that violin,” said Monica, lowering her hands, “It's touching how you're taking care of it for him….”

“He gave it to me,” said Hermione, sniffing. “I promised him that if I felt like it, I would at least learn to play it before… before -”

She nearly choked some air and felt like she wanted to run to her mother and sob. She held it all with all the strength she could muster.

“Is there anything you want to tell me?”

Hermione shook her head again and forced a sad smile.

“I'll be alright, mum,” said Hermione, “I just feel so tired.”

“Well, you better get some rest soon because you'll all be busy fixing the house for the arrival of your aunts! And I hear my sister is baking pie again for you!”

“Ugh,” Hermione held her stomach, “Don't remind me.”

“Well, it's not kiwifruit this time,” said Monica.

“I know,” said Hermione, trying to push the painful memories away. “Er - I think I should be going up for that bandage now.”

“Oh, yes, yes, of course!” Monica nodded. “Just be careful or you might slip in the bathroom, remember two years ago?”

“Yes, mum,” said Hermione pointedly, walking out of the batwing doors, ignoring everyone in the dining room except her father who spoke.

“Are you alright, Hermonica? I thought I heard a clatter -”

“I'm fine,” said Hermione, smiling. “I accidentally cut myself that's all,” she showed her backhand which had her fingers were pressed on. “I'm just going to get it patched up.”

“You know, in America, people who cut themselves are considered unorthodox,” said Alice instantly.

Hermione blinked.

“Oh, I bet they do, Alice.” Hermione said, snapping a look at Alice, catching Harry's eyes. “I mean, mind you, miraculous happenings can be considered unorthodox, correct?”

With a quick kiss on her father's cheek, Hermione bade them goodnight and clambered up the stairs and into her room where she flung herself on the bed.

Trust Alice to say such rubbish… unorthodox… as if she wasn't an unorthodox girl who rolled about….

That wasn't very nice to say, Hermione thought again.

Shrugging off every emotion in her mind, Hermione found herself in the bathroom, applying a bandage on her cut. She massaged it and looked into her reflection to see her haggard face.

“You look terrible,” Hermione said, pulling down her lower eyelid to reveal the red veins among the white on her eyeball.

She went back to her dark room (sans for the night light that gave a whitish glow at the corner of her room) and sat on her bed sleepily.

It was long minutes until she heard the voices of Harry and Alice ascending up the stairs. She groaned as Alice's voice resonated through the walls of her bedroom.

“You have to see New York City, it's so beautiful especially at night! I know you'll love it.”

“Maybe we can fly there on my broomstick,” said Harry's voice.

“That'll be nice,” said Alice kindly. “It'll be like Aladdin except we're flying on a broomstick.”

“Nice, indeed,” said Harry.

Unusually, Hermione felt left out that she wasn't out there talking with Harry like that and for some reason, she wished he offered her to fly with him on his broomstick.

“Hey, Harry,” Alice's voice said, its volume loud enough to tell that she and Harry were outside of the guestroom door, “Have you ever used the internet?”

A dull silence.

“Er, no,” said Harry, his voice sounded excited.

Of course, Harry has never used the internet, at all.

“Oh! Well, looks like I'm going to introduce you to the wonderful world of the World Wide Web!”

I was supposed to do that!

Hermione shook her head vigorously and groaned.

Ever since Harry accepted her offer to go with her on this trip, she wanted to show him how using a computer was like after hearing stories from Ron that the Dursleys wouldn't let him use one.

And now Alice beat me to it….

Not that it was a big deal but there were lots of things she wanted to show Harry….

If only if he could talk to me….

Just apologize to him, she thought. It was the only way.

Hermione left her bed, walked up to the door and pressed her ear against it. The voices were softer giving her evidence that they were inside the guestroom.

She opened her door gradually and saw the empty hallway but the guestroom door open.

“…and that's what you call a mouse pointer,” she heard Alice's voice from inside.

“What is this one for?” Harry asked.

Hermione edged closer and leaned to take a peek at Harry watching Alice use the computer. Luckily, their backs were to her so they weren't aware that Hermione was watching them.

“What's this?” Harry pointed to the screen where a white window popped up.

“It's a program… like a thingy-mabobber that makes you send mail.”

“Like owls?”

“Yeah, definitely like owls.” Alice said, ruffling his hair, “You learn fast.”

Harry smirked with pride. Hermione gripped the doorframe and listened more.

“So, this mail thing,” Harry said, leaning on his knees.

“E-mail,” said Alice.

“Yeah, e-mail… how does it work?”

“You type in the address here,” she pointed to the screen, “Then you write down the subject of the letter you're sending… you have a choice to attach a picture or a file with the letter.”

“Oh,” said Harry, “Who are you writing to?”

“To my dearest darling-est Momsy and Popsicle,” said Alice in the most adorable voice.

Harry grinned broadly and looked at Alice with a sense of admiration. Hermione rolled her eyes.

Not wanting to watch them any further, Hermione left for her room and fell on her bed, realizing how much Harry meant to her.

You're not going to lose him, Hermione….

The only way was to go back into that room and tell him straight out that she was sorry for getting angry at him awhile ago.

She took off her shoes, lay down on her bed, rolled on her side and looked at the snow flecked window.

“But what if he doesn't want an apology?” she asked herself quietly.

Impossible, Harry is too articulate to not accept an apology.

“Oh….” Hermione gripped her sheets tightly, biting her lip as the cold of the winter night shuddered her to sleep.

* * *

Dear Miss Granger,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Term starts September 1. The Hogwarts Express leaves from Platform Nine and Three Quarters on August 30 from King's Cross Station. Enclosed is a list of the books and supplies you will need. We await your answer by owl.

Sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress

Hermione reread the letter.

Was this legit?

“Well?” Alice asked, looking over Hermione's shoulder. “Anything else?”

Hermione looked at the other letter and saw that this one addressed her parents. Another letter was the aforementioned list of books and supplies.

“N-nothing,” said Hermione, her voice was dry.

“Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry,” Alice mouthed, looking at the heading of the letter. “You don't think its fake, do you?”

“I - I'm not sure,” Hermione said croakily, looking over the letter. “B-but - I don't know!”

“Calm down, Kiwi!” Alice said, placing a comforting hand on Hermione's shoulder. “It might mean something!”

“Mean what, Allie?” Hermione turned to her, “I - I don't see how this means anything!”

“It means that this is the answer to why you're doing these weird things!” Alice implored. “Look, it says it is a school of `witchcraft' so maybe you are a -”

“I'm not a witch, Allie,” said Hermione sternly. “Because that way, I'm a freak! You know what they do to witches back in the middle ages!”

“But that was so long ago,” said Alice.

“What if it's a prank?” Hermione snapped. “What if it's just some stupid prank to set me up and look like an idiot?”

“By who?” Alice asked.

“By two people I don't want you to meet, Allie!” Hermione said hysterically.

“Who are they?”

Hermione silenced. She wasn't in the mood to tell her favorite cousin about the two people who bully her.

“It's nothing, Allie,” Hermione said, “I'm j-just confused and lost about this.”

“Don't be,” said Alice, “I'm here, remember? My job is to keep you right in the head.”

Alice smiled confidently at Hermione.

“You're right,” Hermione said, breathing slowly, “I should pull myself together.”

“That's good,” said Alice, “You're one of the people I know who can go through anything.”

“Thank you,” Hermione said, placing a shoulder on Alice. “But I couldn't do any of that without you.”

“But we see each other only once every two or three years, Kiwi.” Alice said. “I don't understand.”

“I'm limited,” said Hermione simply, frowning. “Without you... I feel that way... you're my best friend in the whole world.”

Alice giggled.

“Well, I know I'm who I am today because I knew you.” Alice said.

“Like a comet pulled from orbit as it passes the sun,” Hermione replied, chuckling as she leaned and hugged Alice. “But I really don't know what to do with this letter....”

“It says the sender awaits your reply by owl....” Alice looked at the letter, pulling away from Hermione. “What does it mean?”

“I'm not so sure,” Hermione squinted at the letter. “But it obviously means that I should reply to them if I'll enroll to this school.”

“You actually think there is a school of witchcraft, Kiwi?” Alice stared at her.

“I'm not so sure....” Hermione moaned. “I can't - I really have no idea... Well, lets say there is a school of magic and that will probably answer why I burn cabinets -”

“Or let objects fly.” Alice pointed out.

“Or turn soda into ice.” Hermione nodded, “But I don't get why....”

“You're being too skeptic,” Alice said. “I know you're bright and you're using your observations if this is a joke or not but after all you have told me... the magic and what not, who knows?”

Hermione stared at the letter and sighed.

“There's so much to think about, Allie,” Hermione said, picking up the letter. “But I really find it important that I don't let this bother me all summer. I mean, you're here... Johnny is there... I think it's right to just.... let this go.”

“Kiwi....”

“Allie, it's probably a joke...” Hermione said, “I mean, answer by owl? Who does that?”

“I've heard about mailing things with pigeons...” Alice said innocently. “Maybe that's what it meant.”

“But -”

“And didn't you say that owls were following around you for the past few years and that one of them gave you a feeling that it understood you?”

“It was a she,” said Hermione. “But does it mean anything?”

“Hermione, those owls could be flying around waiting for your reply letter! For all we know, they probably knew you are a witch!”

“It's just too complicated, Allie!” Hermione said, “It's impossible, beyond what books can explain! You know that! You're as bright as I am!”

This was true. Another reason why Alice and Hermione got a long so well was because the two were studious.

“But Kiwi,” Alice pleaded. “I am not as bright as you but I have a gut feeling that this will help you a lot... it could answer your questions.”

“But what if it's a joke?” Hermione said.

“What if it isn't?” Alice countered.

A pause followed as the two looked at each other's eyes. Is Alice right about her judgment?

“Show the letter to Uncle Jac-Jac and Aunt MonMon,” Alice said, “I'm sure they'll know what to do.”

“No,” Hermione said, “I'll probably do so but not now... not when they have the clinic to be worried about.”

Alice didn't reply but eyed her cousin worriedly.

“I'll be fine, Allie.” Hermione smiled, “Don't be too worried about me... let's just... enjoy the summer while it lasts, okay?”

Alice bowed her head disappointingly.

“I want to help you, Kiwi....”

“Hey,” Hermione crouched lower to meet Alice's eyes. “You are helping me, Allie. You're keeping me happy by being here and that's a lot of help on your part.”

“Are you sure you're going to be alright?”

“I will be,” Hermione said, “But if anything happens on the way, you'll be there to pull me out of it, right?”

“Of course,” Alice smiled. “As long as Johnny is there.”

The two girls giggled in delight while Hermione felt better than she did for the past hour. What they didn't know was the fluttering trio of owls that perched themselves on a tree branch just right outside of the bedroom window.

* * *

Hermione shuddered while she lay on her side in bed.

It's so cold....

She wondered how she slept without her blanket on.

Where's my blanket?

With her eyes shut close, she reached out the darkness for her blanket and felt nothing but the cold smooth surface of her bedsheets.

Oh, God it's cold!

“Mmmm....” she moaned in complaint. “C-cold...”

Then, just before she could get any colder, she felt herself being blanketed by something fluffy and warm. Her body that shivered stopped abruptly as the comfort of the warmth under the blanket overcame her. She clutched the hem of the blanket tightly and curled up to keep herself warmer.

Warmth at last...

A hand stroked the back of her brown hair then traveled to her shoulder. She felt the side of her bed giving into weight, sinking a bit.

The stroking of her shoulder was nice... Hermione liked it as she groggily took the stroking hand from her shoulder and pulled it towards her.

Wait a minute....

As reality kicked back to her mind, her eyes flung open and gasped at the hand she held. She pushed it away, sat up and looked around the darkness.

“Who's there?!” she said in panic, clutching the blanket.

“Hermione!” said a familiar voice. “Calm down, it's only me!”

That voice...

“H-Harry?”

“No, it's Ron.”

Hermione's eyes widened.

“R-Ron?”

“No, it's Harry,” said Harry sarcastically. “You actually think Ron could come here?”

As her eyes adjusted to the darkness, she saw Harry's figure materialize in front of her. He sat on the side of her bed, his glasses reflecting the dim night light behind her.

“Oh,” Hermione blushed. “I - I thought you were someone....”

She became quiet, her knees curled up to her breast. Hermione gradually wrapped herself inside the blanket, trying to feel warm as possible until she became aware on who gave her the blanket.

Harry didn't look happy. He looked like someone who haven't eaten. His grim expression boring onto Hermione made her feel uneasy.

“What are you doing here?” Hermione said before she could stop herself.

“I came here to check on you,” said Harry instantly then drew circles on the bed. “...I thought you weren't okay.”

“Well, I'm fine, Harry.” Hermione said, her annoyed emotions getting the best of her. “I really don't need -”

“You weren't fine when I saw you shivering,” Harry cut her off. “I thought it was best to keep you warm.”

His voice sounded almost livid that made Hermione shrink down in her place.

“I'm sorry...” she said quietly. “I - I should've been grateful....”

Harry became silent and scooted closer to her.

“Are you alright now?”

Obviously I am... you're here with me.

Hermione nodded.

“How's your hand?”

Hermione took out her hand and showed him the bandaged backhand; a red spot where the cut was could be seen among the brown plaster.

Harry took her hand gently and rubs it slowly.

“It looks red,” said Harry.

“It's in pain, that's why,” Hermione said, rolling her eyes.

“So that means you're not okay,” Harry said.

“I'm fine, Harry.”

Harry looked at her skeptically.

“Fine,” said Hermione sternly, “I am not.”

“And why is that?”

The green eyes that shone in the darkness were too much for Hermione. She grimaced, bit her lip and blurted out.

“Because you weren't talking to me all day,” she blushed furiously realizing how weird the words were when said.

Harry warmly smiled the smile that kept her safe and secure whenever he did so.

Feeling embarrassed, Hermione curled up under her blanket and didn't meet his eyes. She wished he could stop looking at her that way.

“We're talking now,” said Harry. “So I ask you again, are you alright?”

Hermione buried her mouth to the sheets that were draped on her knees. She didn't meet his eyes and caught them briefly before looking back at the ground again.

“How's Alice?” she asked.

“She's fine,” said Harry. “Alice is like a mischievous version of you, to be honest.”

Hermione flushed.

“Don't say that,” she pleaded.

“I'm telling you,” said Harry, “She's smart, she loves reading books and she knows about the wizarding world... it was like having another Hermione.”

“Then why don't you go and talk to her instead of me?” Hermione blurted out angrily. “Obviously, I lack being mischievous and pretty!”

“Hey!” Harry raised his hand in defense, “Don't bite my head off! And since when did I say anything about pretty?”

“You stare at her a lot,” Hermione seethed.

“Well….” Harry scratched the back of his head. “I can't lie, she is very pretty.”

“Oh, God,” Hermione muttered.

“But that doesn't explain why you're so angry.” Harry said, “Look… I came here for one reason only.”

“What? To rub the fact that I am not enjoying my first day of the holidays?” Hermione asked, feeling extremely hurt that she thought of this.

Harry's jaw dropped slightly.

“No,” he shook his head, “I came here because… I missed you.”

A double take.

“What?”

“I missed you,” Harry said, smiling.

“We haven't spoken to each other in nine hours, Harry.”

“Twelve,” Harry said, pointing to his watch, “It's nearly two in the morning.”

“Nonetheless,” Hermione said, “I don't see how you can miss me when we haven't said a thing to each other in a short span of time.”

“Nonetheless,” said Harry, “regardless of the short span of time, I can miss you.”

“But why?”

“You're my best friend,” said Harry, “It was strange… to not talk to you while we passed each other today….”

“You really did miss me?” Hermione said, lowering her knees.

“Yeah,” said Harry, “And I felt bad that you weren't having such a good day while I had a good one…. I mean, I should've gone up earlier and see if you're alright.”

“I should be the one, Harry.” Hermione said, “I should have not been such a git hours ago….”

“It's alright,” said Harry, “I know how you can be at times.”

She became aware that Harry was tugging the bandage of her hand slowly.

“What are you doing?”

“I want to see the wound.”

“Don't!” Hermione tried pulling her hand from Harry.

“Just let me see it,” Harry pulled it back, “I won't hurt you, I swear.”

Hermione bit her lip.

“Do you trust me?”

“What?”

“Do you trust me?” Harry repeated.

Hermione looked into his eyes and sighed.

“Yes….”

Then in a gradual moment, Harry pulled out her bandage, her hand stinging in feeble pain.

“It's not too deep,” said Harry, looking at the wound.

“It was a cheese knife,” Hermione said.

“That's good… I can't imagine Hermione's hand cut off.”

For the first time in a long while, Hermione let out a genuine giggle. She smiled at Harry and felt glad he was here with her in her bedroom instead of the guestroom where Alice was, sleeping soundly in her bed, unknown that Harry was here with her.

Imagine the look on her face when she finds out.

Then a sudden thought came to her mind. It materialized as she viewed Harry gazing down at her wounded hand.

“H-Harry?” she asked tentatively.

“Yeah?” he looked at her.

“Erm - you know… about my wound….”

“What about it?”

“Well,” she blushed. “W-when I was young….” She glanced at Harry and back to the her knees. “Whenever I got a wound… m-my mum and dad would -“

“Kiss it?”

Hermione froze.

What are you thinking Hermione?! Are you actually hoping that Harry will kiss your “booboo”?

“Y-yes,” she said, not meeting his eyes. “B-but I know it's stupid right now b-but -”

She was cut short but not because Harry said anything but because she silenced as Harry lifted her hand slowly to his lips. She shuddered a bit as his soft lips pressed against her wounded hand.

A blushing fury rinsed across her face. Glad thing it was dark or else Harry would've seen her red face against the pink room.

“Much better?” Harry asked, smirking at her as he dropped her hand.

Hermione nodded quickly and looked away.

“You should've not done that,” Hermione said quietly. “I didn't mean for it to happen, you know….”

“Hey, I'm doing you a favor,” said Harry, moving closer to her, “Look at it this way, I am here because I want to make sure we're going to enjoy this holiday... together”

It was all Hermione wanted to hear.

“I want to enjoy it too, Harry.” Hermione said, not looking at him. “I'm sorry about awhile ago.”

“Don't be,” said Harry kindly, moving closer to her that he was beside her. “You mean a lot to me and I made a promise years ago that I'll do anything to make sure my best friends stay happy.” He leaned forward. “I'm not going anywhere, Kiwi.”

“Oh, Harry!”

Hermione couldn't stop herself as she wrapped him in an adoring embrace around the torso. She felt safe, protected and happy with him. Harry's hands hugged her back as his head rested on her head.

“Oh, Harry…” Hermione repeated, pressing her cheek against his body, “Don't leave me….”

It was the best thing for today, Hermione thought. This was not going to be like four years ago, after all.

A tear trickled down her cheek and rolled down to drip on her blanket. She sighed and hugged her best friend so tight that she wondered how she'll ever pull away.

* * *

The next day, Hermione, Harry and Alice were busy preparing the house for the arrival of the extended family of Hermione.

The three took it upon themselves to shovel out the snow on the yard, decorate the living room with more Christmas ornaments, and clean the kitchen. All the while that Christmas jazz music played in the background from the stereo.

Mrs. Granger even helped in the cleaning when she took her brakes from her work as they sanitized the closet.

Hermione felt in a better mood after last night with Harry. After they talked, Harry left for bed in the guestroom leaving her into a blissful feeling that made her sleep a lot more serene.

Alice seemed to be less annoying as of late, Hermione thought. Despite her rant on how the Christmas balls should be a bigger, Alice didn't push anything further to keep Hermione in irate.

For the best of it, Hermione ignored Alice the whole time and enjoyed herself as she and Harry cleaned her bedroom together.

The cleaning of her bedroom had some memorable moments like how Harry found her teddy bear, Snuggles, under a pile of clothes inside her closet. She held the urge to push Harry away to hug her old teddy bear since she had always thought it was lost for the past five years.

“I - I'll take that, Harry,” she said, taking Snuggles from Harry's grasp almost hungrily.

As Harry turned away to look into the closet depths, Hermione looked at Snuggles and hugged him tightly only hiding the stuffed bear behind her back when Harry emerged from the closet telling that everything was fixed.

Another to point out was when Harry found Hermione's baby pictures under the bed in a shoebox. She couldn't describe how embarrassed she felt when Harry saw a picture of a three year old girl munching on oatmeal.

“You're so adorable,” Harry said in a goofy adoring face, “Wow….”

Hermione snatched the picture and the box from him and shoved it under the bed before they went back to clean the rest of the room.

Everyone went back to the kitchen to eat dinner when Jacques Granger came home with a friend Hermione knew as “Eddie”, one of her parent's fellow workmates at the clinic.

Eddie couldn't stay long because he had to go home to prepare to leave for Paris, France with his family. Apparently, he lent the family van to Jacques as he planned since he wouldn't be using it while he was abroad. With a bidding farewell and a gift of cookies from Monica, Eddie left the house where he'll go back home on foot as his house was only two blocks away.

“Where did you meet Eddie, Uncle?” Alice asked during dinner.

“We met in Bristol to get his van from the repair shop. He was adding some extra `oomph' to the air-conditioning.”

“But it's winter,” Alice said.

“Exactly, now would you kindly pass the salad, dear?” Jacques smiled at Alice.

After an all-day's work, Hermione found herself resting in the living room on the couch. She sighed deeply as she sipped her hot chocolate while Frank Sinatra sang to her “The Christmas Song” on the stereo. She placed her mug on the coffee table and relaxed.

“You look relaxed.” Alice voice said.

Hermione turned and saw Alice sit on the armchair in front of her. Alice wore a powder blue sweater and blue jogging pants that made her cerulean blue eyes look more obvious than before.

“You look worn-out.” Hermione replied.

“I was cleaning the bathroom, mind you.” Alice retorted.

“Great way to end the day, eh?” Hermione said, lifting her legs to the couch.

“Not really,” Alice said, leering at Hermione. “Harry helped me anyway so it was worth it.”

Trying to keep her mind at ease, Hermione nodded.

“That's good,” she said. “It's nice to know that you're just fond of my best friend.”

“Of course I am,” said Alice, “He's such a gentleman!”

“Your fifth gentleman?” Hermione said.

Alice's eyes flashed.

“What did you say?” she asked dangerously.

Hermione sat up straight and said, “You heard me, he could be your fifth.”

Alice looked murderous. Hermione smirked in pride that she got Alice annoyed.

“Oh, aren't you just a wonderful ray of sunshine,” Alice drawled.

“Thank you,” Hermione said ceremoniously. “I say the same to you, Alice.”

Not.

The two cousins threw daggers at each other but was cut short when Harry entered.

“Hey,” he said, sitting on the armchair beside Alice. “What's up?”

“Nothing, honey,” Alice said, reaching to touch Harry's hand, “Hermione and I were just sharing another cousin moment.”

The two girls exchanged looks of disgust. Hermione wished Harry could pull his hand away.

“Anyway,” said Harry, his hand unmoving to let Alice hold it, “We did it! We cleaned the house.”

“Without magic,” Hermione said conversationally.

“Yeah, without magic,” Harry said indifferently.

There were times during the cleaning periods that Harry wanted to use magic but after a promise made before they boarded the Hogwarts Express, Harry vowed he will do everything the Muggle way while he stayed with Hermione's family.

“You've done your own magical charms, Harry,” said Alice confidently, “I don't think you need magic for that,” she winked.

Harry smiled back and winked back. Hermione avoided looking at this and proceeded to drink her hot chocolate.

“Well,” said Alice, standing up, “I'm dead tired.”

Take out “tired”, won't you?

“I'll go to bed early. Mom and dad are arriving tomorrow so I have to look well-rested for them.”

“You really need it, Alice. I'm being perfectly honest,” said Hermione thoughtfully, her voice filled with mockery.

Alice glared at her.

“I'll keep that in mind, cousin dearest.” She said firmly, “Good night, Hermione,” then her face broke into a gentle smile as she turned to Harry, “Good night, Harry.”

And with a force of a thousand mallets, Hermione's jaw dropped when Alice pushed Harry's bangs and planted a quick kiss on his forehead bringing Harry to an unending wave of redness.

Hermione blinked. A fire sparked in her gut and for all she knew, she wanted to run and pull Alice's dark blonde hair so hard.

Alice giggled, winked at Harry, gave Hermione a triumphant look and left the living room to the stairs.

Harry looked beside himself, he was fidgeting with his fingers stalwartly while he inhaled and exhaled quickly. Hermione wanted to punch him in the face.

“Harry,” Hermione spat.

Harry looked up at her, his face looking obviously distracted. Instantly, he walked up and sat beside her on the couch.

“Y-yes?” he asked anxiously.

“How was it?” Hermione asked in an innocent singsong voice.

“How was what?” Harry asked.

“You know what I'm talking about…” she punched him on the shoulder, “…buddy!”

“Ouch!” Harry jumped, rubbing his shoulder. “Why did you do that for?!”

“I thought men do that when they're really good friends?” Hermione asked casually, keeping her bubbling insides steady.

“Well, I don't know! Ron and I never punched each other!” Harry said, groaning as he rubbed his shoulder.

“Wow, I thought you two were manly,” Hermione muttered.

“What?”

“Nothing,” Hermione said quickly.

“What's got into you?”

Hermione smiled sweetly.

“Does someone have a crush on dear Alice Lindell Upland Granger?” Hermione said adorably.

Harry's eyes widened.

“I - er - um, you see -”

“Oh, God Harry,” Hermione chuckled.

“I - I don't have a crush on her!”

“But you do,” Hermione pushed on, scooting over to Harry, “You can't stop thinking about her, can you?”

“H-Hermione, that's m-my business.”

“Oh, so you do like her?” Hermione said, her eyes twinkling.

Harry did not answer but blushed.

Hermione tilted her head cutely and pouted, “Are you in love?”

“Hermione!” Harry cried. “Stop it!”

Hermione laughed with fervor of a nutcase. She shook her head and turned to her best friend.

“You're too obvious, Harry,” Hermione said, “You can't get enough of her!”

“Hermione, please, not too loud -”

“I mean, really, Harry, I was expecting you to bag her sooner but one and a half days? That's not Seeker-material!” Hermione urged on, her mind racing with mad thoughts while her insides suppressed the potential explosion.

“You're getting weird,” Harry said, his face as red as the red Christmas baubles.

“Am I?” Hermione asked sternly.

The two met silence and Harry sighed, feeling relieved that Hermione did not ask anything else. As her sanity surfaced, Hermione felt ashamed by her sudden outburst and drastically tried to find a way to change the subject.

* * *

“Hermione?”

“Yes, John?”

The boy with the timid face glanced up to see Alice chewing on a chunk of a Twix bar at the kitchen. John turned back to Hermione, who was in the living room with him, and took a deep breath.

“What is it?” Hermione asked, closing her book.

“T-there's something I want to tell you.” He said, turning red.

Hermione smirked. She knew what he was going to say after all the things he has done to make it so obvious.

“And what would that be?” she asked casually, grinning.

“Er,” he glanced at the kitchen, “I - erm -”

“Is it regarding Allie?”

“A-Allie? N-no, who said it was about her?” John said, sweating from his brow.

Hermione laughed softly.

“Oh, Johnny... sweet, dear, and innocent Johnny,” she said, “How obvious can you get?”

John looked nervous now; his hands were wringing and he bit his lip so hard that it looked like he was going to eat himself.

“You like her, don't you?” Hermione smiled broadly at John.

John blushed and made a nervous dry laugh.

“What gave you that idea?”

“You give her chocolate every time you visit,” Hermione pointed out. “Isn't chocolate the symbol of lo -”

“I - I just want to show that I appreciate her, that's all!”

“Ah, appreciate,” Hermione nodded, “You appreciate her, Johnny?”

“I meant in a friendly way.”

“I never said anything about the gesture being more than a friendly way,” Hermione grinned. “So go on, tell me that it's true.”

“All right!” John groaned, “Hermione... I really like her.”

“I knew it!” Hermione said, kneeling on the couch excitedly.

“Don't make it a big deal, alright? It's just a crush.”

“But you like her!” Hermione squeaked. “That's good to know.”

“But don't say it where she might hear it, Hermione,” John said, looking around worriedly.

“She won't hear us, John,” Hermione said, “But how long did you start liking her?”

“Ever since day one... the day we met,” he said dreamily.

“Awww, you're getting your first summer fling,” she giggled.

“Hermione, I need you to help me on getting her to like me,” he blurted out.

Hermione smirked.

“Are you sure she might like you as we speak?” she asked slyly.

“A girl like her like me?” John laughed. “It's hopeless... she laughed when I stumbled yesterday when we went to the ice cream parlor, remember?”

“Allie might have thought you were funny!” Hermione said, “Don't take it too personal and from what I can tell, I think she really likes you too.”

“Oh, really?”

“Yes, really,” Hermione nodded. “My tip is to just talk to her and keep her happy. Allie is one of the happiest beings I ever met so make sure she stays that way... she'll like you more for that.”

“Gee, I dunno....” John winced, “I can't really find ways to do that -”

“Alice loves chocolate... you got that one right,” said Hermione. “Now the next to do is to find out her interests. She loves talking about what she's interested in so that's a good place to start.

“And whatever you do, keep away from conversations that might offend her.”

“Like?”

“Er - anything that is offensive in general... but she's very tolerable about that stuff but it's good to not stretch your chances here.”

“Stretch your chances where, Kiwi?” said Alice who strolled into the living room. “Hi, Johnny.”

Hermione wanted to giggle at how Alice smiled beautifully at John. John chuckled and waved nervously at her.

Get your act together, you two!

“Hi, Allie,” Johnny said, his voice cool and calm. “Er, how was the Twix bar?”

“Oh, it's so delicious!” Alice said happily, “I love Twix! I was so glad you gave me that as a gift. I really am, John... thank you.”

John nervously nodded and glanced at Hermione.

“You're doing okay,” she mouthed to him furtively, putting her thumbs up.

John went back to Alice and said, “No problem.”

The two beamed at each other with significance that made Hermione grin broadly.

“Well then,” Hermione said, picking up her book, “look at the time it looks like I have to do something before the day ends!”

“Where are you going, Kiwi?” Alice said wheeling around to Hermione.

“Just in my bedroom,” said Hermione, “Don't worry though, it won't take too long! You have Johnny here to keep you company!” she winked at John.

Alice turned to John and smiled sheepishly at him with a toothy grin that showcased her teeth.

“I'll be off, okay?” Hermione said, grinning from John to Alice. “You two take care!”

Hermione immediately ran up the staircase and paused on the landing to listen to Alice and John downstairs.

Unsurprisingly, she heard John pose the first question that would spark a dozen other ones, leading to his closeness with Alice.

* * *

“Stereo,” Hermione said instantly.

“Sorry?”

“Stereo,” she repeated as she stood up, looked at the stereo that played Frank Sinatra singing Christmas songs.

“W-what about it?”

“Nothing,” Hermione said quickly, looking down, “I - I just thought about listening to music… that's all….”

Without waiting for a reply, Hermione stopped the CD player, pulled out the Frank Sinatra Christmas songs CD and replaced it with a random disc which she played.

She did not turn to Harry but she stared into the LED that said:

01 - Moon River Instrumental

The digital timer started as the familiar notes resonated the living room.

“Isn't that the same song you played on the violin?”

“Yes,” Hermione replied sadly.

Hermione took an intake of breath and increased the volume of the song.

She closed her eyes as the song entered her ears and played a relaxing tune that she can only comprehend.

Hermione felt much better now after her outburst then slowly, she turned to Harry and stood in front of him.

“Hermione,” Harry stared at her, “Is there something wrong?”

“Nothing,” Hermione smiled at him. “I just love this song.”

The instrumentals soothed her ears while she recalled fond memories of dancing to this kind of music with her grandfather when he taught her how to dance. She smiled remembering how many times she failed only to get up and improve herself until she got it right.

It's been a really long time since she danced with her grandfather.

Three years ago.

She wished she could dance again… she has always loved dancing. Just one waltz would do her good to let her recent frustrations against Alice ebb away….

And like last night, an idea sparked in her head. It was the perfect opportunity.

“Harry?”

“Yeah?”

“Er,” she turned to the stereo which continued to play the song, “This song…”

“What about it?” he looked at the stereo.

“My Grand-Père and I… erm… danced to this when I was little….”

“So what are you saying?” he asked.

Hermione bit her lip and found it queer that she felt nervous in asking him… also quite fearful of rejection.

“Can you dance with me?”

Hermione lifted her hand. Harry gaped at her confusingly.

“Er - I don't know how to dance, Hermione….”

“The Yule Ball, Harry.” Hermione's brows furrowed.

“I didn't even dance,” said Harry sheepishly.

“Fine, I'll teach you, come on.”

She pulled Harry to full height and pushed the coffee table out of the way giving them more room.

“Er - Hermione, I'm not sure about this.” Harry said nervously.

“Come here,” she gestured him to move closer to her.

Harry obeyed and was now in front of Hermioe.

“Now put your hand on my waist,” she said, placing Harry's hand on her waist.

“Erm, sure,” Harry said with uncertainty.

After going into proper position; Hermione's hand on Harry's shoulder and their free hands holding each other, Hermione smiled.

“Now all you have to do is follow my lead. Since this is a slow song we'll just sway and turn, got it?”

“Yeah, I think I do,” Harry said, looking down at his shoes.

“You'll get it in time,” said Hermione, “Now…”

Hermione leaned closer to Harry to the point their stomachs were touching. This didn't bother Hermione but she noticed how awkward Harry looked before saying…

“Follow me….”

Hermione swayed right while she synchronized her steps with the music. Harry, grinning from ear to ear as he watched his step, followed her movements to the music.

“You're getting it, Harry!” Hermione said after a few minutes of dancing.

“I know,” Harry chuckled, twisting Hermione around slowly. “It's quite fun too.”

“My grandfather was a champion in many dancing tournaments and he taught me everything he knew.” Hermione said proudly when she stopped spinning to hold on to Harry in their previous position.

“He's a great teacher then,” said Harry placidly.

Hermione giggled and stopped on her steps.

“Thank you…” she said.

“No problem,” Harry said, stepping away slowly. “I just hope I was good enough, you know -”

“You were good,” Hermione said, holding her hands in front of her. “I really don't mind a boy with two left feet.”

“I'm that bad?” Harry grimaced.

“No!” Hermione cried, “You're not, I'm just saying that you're good for someone who hasn't dance before.”

“Oh,” Harry chuckled. “Sorry….”

“Don't be,” Hermione reiterated her words the last time Harry apologized. “I'm quite glad… I haven't danced in years.”

“Really?” Harry's eyes widened. “But you're very good and - er - fluid.”

“Fluid?”

“Pardon my lack of better term,” Harry explained embarrassingly.

“Its fine,” Hermione giggled, sighed and took a step forward, “Thank you, by the way….”

“For?”

“For dancing with me… even if it was short… and… even if I acted a bit,” she cocked her head sideward to the couch, “random awhile ago.”

“It's all good,” said Harry nodding, “Besides, I'm having fun anyway.”

“I'm glad you are,” Hermione smiled.

“Well, you've been great through and through, Hermione… you made me feel comfortable here,” he gestured his surroundings. “I can't say I thanked you enough.”

“You're welcome,” said Hermione happily, squeezing Harry's hand affectionately.

The two looked at each other in silence as the song reached its final notes.

What was this feeling?

The feeling that bubbled inside her was different this time. Ever since Alice has taken the role to spend Harry for the past two days, Hermione found that every moment with Harry was more valuable than ever.

But why did it make her so happy than she intended?

Was she happy because she had Harry all to herself tonight, that she can express everything she wants with him?

What was this feeling?

Hermione wondered… why did she suddenly like the gleam in Harry's brilliant green eyes?

I can't deny it… he is handsome.

But was it because of the Christmas setting that Hermione found Harry very nice tonight?

“Hermione?” Harry asked.

“Hmmm?” she raised her eyebrows, the world coming back to her.

“I - I think I better go to bed,” he said, looking back at the stairs, “You know, we need our rest since your aunts are arriving.”

“Oh, sure, yeah, I forgot.” Hermione nodded, blinking quickly.

“How about you? Are you going to bed?”

“Erm… no. Not yet, anyway,” Hermione answered honestly.

“Oh, well,” Harry said, breaking into a smile, “Good night then.”

“Good night,” Hermione crossed her arms, smiling back.

Harry nodded and walked away to the staircase, before he could climb up, Hermione suddenly called him.

“Harry,” she said.

“What?”

Hermione walked up to him and said, “Sweet dreams, Harry.”

And with all the power she mustered, she leaned forward and kissed Harry on the cheek. Hermione moved away and her eyes widened when she just registered on what she did.

“Wow,” Harry said quietly, smirking at her, “Er - thanks,”

Harry reached for her shoulder, squeezed it and said goodnight, leaving Hermione alone in the living room.

What… did you just do, Hermione?

Hermione touched her shoulder, shuddered and gazed up at the stairs that Harry clambered up.

And for the first time in her life, Hermione Granger had no idea how to explain what she was feeling at the moment.

To be continued…

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