That Summer

That Summer....



A/N: Ok this is the first fan fiction that I ever wrote. I posted it on FF.net and was planning on posting it again here until I reread it. So instead I decided to revise it a bit, make it longer and tie into the sequel more. I don’t really know how long it’s going to take or what the end products going to be but I’ll try to get this out ASAP.

~*~Hermione~*~

Hermione sat on the window seat in her room remembering the past school year. It was the summer before her 7^th and final year and the past year had been difficult. The loss of Sirius at the end of their 5^th year had hit Harry harder then they all imagined it would. For the first week of the summer holidays Harry didn’t sleep and only ate and drank if someone made him. It finally took Hermione breaking down in front of him to realize that he still had people in this world that needed him, and he then broke down himself. He cried for all those that lost someone to Voldemort and all those that may someday loose someone. He cried for Sirius and most of all for himself. Finally after all that he wiped his eyes and thanked her. He never specified what for but she knew and that was all that mattered.

Their 6^th year had been confusing. Harry kept disappearing at night and would come back wiped out with cuts and bruises and sometimes broken bones. They had tried to get it out of him but he said that he was in no danger and swore on his life that he wouldn’t tell anyone what was happening. That was the first year that he had spent Christmas away from everyone. He left the day before the break and promised that he’d be back in time for Christmas. He wasn’t. He sent a letter apologizing and saying that he would make it up to them somehow but Hermione doubted it. See, she had realized through that summer that she cared for him more then she supposed she should. And the secrecy that he held so dear was tearing them apart.

While she was deep in her thoughts Hedwig tapped at the window startling her. When she realized who’s Owl it was she instantly perked up and opened the screen. This was the first Owl he’s sent her and it’s already a month into the summer vacation. She petted Hedwig a little and then untied the letter from her leg. With some apprehension she unrolled the bit of parchment.

Dear Hermione,

How’s your summer going? Sorry for not writing sooner I had a few things I had to finish up. Listen, Dumbledore told me that if I want I can move into Number 12 a week before my birthday. I’ll be all alone however since Order Meetings are now being held someplace else. I wanted to know if you would stay with me. I know I’ve been a little secretive and distant this past year and I really do want to make it up to you. Ron will be by on my birthday but Mrs. Weasley wants him to stay home for most of the Holiday since this is probably the last he will spend at home. Please say you’ll come, I’ve missed you.

Love,

Harry

P.S. At least say you’ll come for my birthday, I’m going to be throwing a sort of party and it would be the best birthday ever if you were there.

Hermione sat there reading and re-reading the letter. ‘I’ve missed you’? He sure hasn’t acted like it. But that still didn’t stop her from looking at the calendar and seeing, with some excitement, that a week from his birthday was two days away. The only problem was getting her parents to approve. She needed a plan.

~*~Harry~*~

“Here Hedwig, deliver this letter to Hermione for me will you?”

Hedwig nipped his finger lightly and flew out his open window. He just stared after her, even after she was out of sight. So much had changed in the past year that it hurt. Sirius was gone, and never coming back. It took awhile for that to sink in for Harry. Sirius wasn’t going to send him another exotic bird with a message, or pop around the corner in his padfoot form anymore. He was really and truly gone and there was nothing Harry could have done to keep him here. It took longer for that to sink in. For ages after Sirius’ death Harry truly believed it was his fault. He felt like he himself placed the curse on Sirius and made him fall through the vale. Thank God for Hermione.

She was his rock, the only person or thing that held him together. Through this past year it was so hard to keep secrets from her and to see the pained expression on her face after he came back from Christmas holidays 2 days late. It hurt him more then she knew. She doubted him now. For the first time he could see suspicion and doubt in her eyes when he spoke to her and it tore him apart. He realized the summer after 5^th year when she had brought him back to his senses that he was in love with her. There was no doubt in his mind about that. The only doubt was if she felt the same way. He had brought her so much pain as of late that he didn’t see how she could. He didn’t see how anyone could feel the same way he does about Hermione. That was one of the main reasons he invited her to stay with him this summer. He wanted to get back on the same terms that he was on with her before Sirius was taken, maybe even better terms. He could hope. While he was deep in his thoughts there was a knock on his bedroom door.

“Come in?” No one ever knocks on his door. The Dursleys usually just barge in.

Harry was understandably confused then when his Uncle Vernon opened the door and walked in. He looked nervous and uncomfortable and Harry offered him his desk chair hoping that the large man wouldn’t break it.

“As you know,” Vernon started as he sat, “I was just promoted to General Manager at my branch of Grunnings.”

As a matter of fact Harry did not know that but just nodded hoping to get whatever Vernon wanted out of the way before Hermione wrote back.

“Well,” Vernon cleared his throat clearly staling for time, “They are throwing a large dinner party for me on the 27^th and if you promise to behave you may attend.”

Harry was shocked. After all the Dursleys have put him through they are asking him to come to a dinner party. Maybe he would go…

“Could I bring a date, if she promises to behave as well of course?”

This was followed by an “of Course” by Vernon who left as soon as that was over.

Once the door was closed Harry couldn’t help but let out a large burst of laughter. He could tell that Vernon had hoped that he would decline. Now, all he had to do was to get Hermione to accept his invitation.

Just then Hedwig flew back in with a letter from Hermione. That was sooner then expected he thought as he took the letter off Hedwig’s leg. She flew back to her cage to get some rest. For the longest time Harry just stared at the letter as if it was something that was going to bite his hand off. What if she said no, what if she can’t even come to the party? What if she CAN come? We’d be all alone in number 12 for a month… this was a bad idea. All this was going through his head as he untied the string and unrolled the parchment. All his worries went away however as soon as he saw her neat writing.

Dear Harry,

It was wonderful to hear from you. I had started to worry. What kind of things did you have to finish up? I know you probably won’t answer that question but you know me, had to ask. Well, about your invite to Number 12, it took a little persuasion but I had finally convinced my parents to let me stay for the rest of the holidays. So when do you want me to meet you there? I’ll be driving myself and my parents are going to pick the car up at Kings Cross after we leave so we have a way to get there. I can’t wait to see you again Harry, I’ve missed you terribly.

Love,

Hermione

P.S. Even if my parents wouldn’t have let me come I would have been there for your birthday you should know that. I would’ve snuck out if I had to.

Harry just smiled. A month alone with Hermione was more then he could ask for. That was the best present he could have gotten this year. However, he was a little suspicious of how Hermione got her parents to let her spend a month alone with a teenage boy, even if it was only her friend. It made him feel good to think that Hermione, HIS Hermione, Little-miss-follow-the-rules, would sneak out of the house for him… he was a bad influence on her. He laughed a little as he wrote his reply.

~*~Chapter 2~*~

~*~The Arrival~*~


A/N There’s a few things that I want to clear up. Yes, this was my first fanfic; however it’s going through a tremendous makeover for it to be placed here on portkey. The idea for this was my first and you can find the original version, which I started on Feb. 2 2002 on Fanfiction.net under the penname CentralsPrincess15. I do warn you though, it’s really bad.

Thanks

~*~Hermione~*~

She couldn’t believe that she was actually going to do this. She glanced once more at the letter she had received late last night.

Dear Hermione,

I was so glad you could come I nearly screamed. But then I realized that I was still at the Dursleys and that would probably end up in chores until the moment I have to leave for Number 12 and settled for a jig instead (just kidding). Well about the meet, there’s been a development. See Uncle Vernon was promoted to head manager of his branch and there’s going to be a party on the 27^th, and he’s invited me and I can bring a date. Will you go with me? If so come to Privet drive tomorrow at 5 for dinner. Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia wish to meet you then you’ll spend the night in the guest bedroom and we’ll be out of there the next morning and off to Gimmuald place. I AM a bit curious as to how you persuaded your parents into letting you stay for a month with a boy all alone.

Love,

Harry

P.S. Even if that boy is only a friend of course.

Hermione liked to think that that last line was a bit rushed as if he threw it in at the last second. She sighed as she pulled the keys out of the ignition and opened her door.

She opted to wear a very Hermione like knee length blue skirt and a white top. Not reveling but still feminine. She cared for Harry but wasn’t going to dress a different way just to impress him. If he didn’t like the way she was now then she’s not going to change for him. Even as the thought passed her mind she wished she would’ve wore something sexier but quickly pushed that out of her head. It was just nerves of course and it’s will all be fine once she finally sees Harry.

The walk to the door seemed to take hours. As she looked around everyone was peeking out their shades to see who the new person at Number 4 was. She instantly regretted this. Not only will she be under the scrutiny of Harry’s Aunt, Uncle, Cousin, and Neighbors but she also had to be his date at a diner party she had no wish to attend. Finally she reached the door to the house, took a deep breath, and rang the bell.

~*~Harry~*~

He didn’t get a reply from Hermione but thought that may be a good thing. He couldn’t help staring at that clock all day though. Dudley had called him on a few times and teased him mercifully. Harry had done an extra good job on all his chores today and even took the time to dust and vacuum his room, which brought on another laughing bout from Dudley until he nearly died from chocking on a candy bar he was eating at the time.

Harry thought he may have scared Hermione off with the ‘…month with a boy all alone’ comment. From the time he sent the letter to 5:00 when the doorbell rang he was just a bundle of nerves. What made it worse was when the bell DID ring the Dursleys didn’t force him (though it wouldn’t take much this time) to answer the door.

“Dudley, honey, go and answer the door.” Aunt Petunia poked her head out of the kitchen into the living room where Dudley was. He didn’t hear a word she said.

“Dudley, sweetie, get the door please. We don’t want to seem rude.” Dudley just nodded this time but still stayed seated.

By this time Harry was ready to leave the supper that he’s been working on for the past hour burn just to go answer the door. Then something happened that would be remembered in the Dursley’s house for a long time to come. Petunia snapped.

“DUDLEY VERNON DURSLEY GET UP OFF YOUR ASS AND GET THE DOOR NOW!” Harry whipped around and stared at his Aunt. Dudley looked as if he was about to cry and Vernon, who had just came down from changing looked bug eyed at his wife.

“O-o-o-ok mum, I’ll get it.” Dudley scrambled to the door just as the bell rang for the third time.

Harry as still eying his Aunt warily hoping that she wouldn’t blow up at him like that and that Hermione didn’t hear that. Petunia came up to him and took the wooden spoon from his hand and went to stirring the food in the skillet.

“Go on boy; get changed for your guest.”

Harry nodded and washed his hands. By then Hermione was inside the house and in the Living room. Dudley was no where to be seen and Vernon was trying his best to Entertain her. He shook his head and went up to change.

~*~Hermione~*~

She waited, and waited, rang the bell again and waited some more. Just when she was about to leave she heard a woman shouting from inside and tried one more time. Hoping it would be Harry answering the door she put on a large smile when she heard the door begin to open. She was sadly disappointed.

“Hello, may I help you?” The boy, she assumed it was Dudley, looked pale and confused. Her smile faltered a bit but she replaced it as soon as she could.

“Yes, my name’s Hermione Granger. I’m here to see Harry.”

The boy nodded and showed her in. She tried to look for Harry hoping he would come and see her but she was whisked away into the living room before she could find him.

A very large man sat on a chair in the room with a glass of Whiskey in one hand and the remote control in the other. As soon as Dudley showed her into the Living room he ran out saying he had to change. Hermione sat in an unoccupied chair and cleared her throat. Vernon looked from the TV to her and was startled.

“Uh, you must be Harry’s date for the dinner.” He took a long drink from his glass to steady himself.

Hermione merely nodded and looked around nervously. She wished for Harry to come in a hurry and soon her wish came true.

“Hermione!” Harry rushed into the living room and picked her up in a hug. She smiled for the first time since entering the home.

“Hey Harry, how’s it going.” She was a little embarrassed as she was still in his embrace.

He pulled back so he could see her. “Better now.” She blushed and he pulled away from her and turned to his Uncle.

“Uncle Vernon this is my best friend, Hermione Granger. Hermione, my Uncle Vernon Dursley.” Hermione gave a quiet “nice to meet you” and all Vernon did was grunt. Thankfully at that moment Petunia called for them to come to dinner.

Dinner was as it most always was in the Dursley household. All the conversation revolved around Dudley. The many Dinner topics were Dudley’s Grades, his school, his friends and the weather. Finally came the moment that Harry was dreading.

“So Hermione, You go to that school with Harry?” Having two magical people in the house had caused Vernon to drink a little more then usual tonight and suffice to say he was drunk at this point.

“Yes sir.” Came Hermione’s polite reply. She had taken a sip from her water glass to keep from saying anything rude. She’s been doing this all night and by now she had gone through 3 glasses of water.

“So I suppose that your parents are…like you as well.” Hermione instantly shook her head.

“No, my parents are Mug- Non magical people. They’re Dentists. They have their own practice and everything.”

“How…nice.” Petunia had gotten into the conversation. She hasn’t spoke much since she yelled at Dudley and he had gotten an extra piece of pie as an apology.

“Well, if Hermione and I may be excused I’ll show her to her room.” Vernon waved him off and the left the table as fast as they politely could.

(at this point it’s no particular POV)

When they got to the stairs Harry stopped and turned to her. “Do you want to see your room first or get your clothes?”

“Most defiantly get my clothes. I don’t want to have to come back down here anymore then I have to.” Harry nodded and led the way outside.

“So Hermione, did you bring something to wear to the party or do you want to go shopping for it?” Harry was just trying to make casual conversation, something that seemed very hard to do with Hermione walking so close to him at the moment.

“Well, I did bring something, but I don’t know if it will be presentable enough. I don’t have many fancy things. I don’t really need them anymore what with being at school most of the year.” Hermione grabbed a small night bag from the backseat of her car.

“I’m sure it will be fine but I need to go shopping anyway so if you see anything you like tell me, I’ll get it for you.” Harry grabbed the bag from her and walked a little ahead of her. She just followed with a small smile on her face.

When they got to the guest room Harry opened the door for her. He set her suitcase on her bed and turned to her. They stood there for a few seconds just staring at each other before Harry shook his head and wrapped his arms around her again.

“I’m so glad you’re here Hermione”

And so was she.

Thanks to:

HnH4eva19 – My first reviewer! YOU GET COOKIES!!!

ShawnPickett – you’re very welcome

VipyGirl831 - *blush* you really think so?

Hrhermione – There is a very good reason Vernon asked Harry to come.

Hermione Granger Potter – Hope this was soon enough for you

Zoe Clair Black – HrH 4 eva Hecky yea!!!

Willow – Thanks!

HPfan1 – It warms my heart it know that it’s becoming a fave

Austenlover – Oh, I have big plans for the party. You see Vernon’s Boss… never mind.

RomaFlavour – Sneaky…humph… J

Woefulwabbit – I GOT POTENTIAL *does a little dance* thanks!!

Lara – I hope you like it.

Readingeye - … never thought of that… hmmm… *wheels turn in head*

Lord Belial – What would be the fun in that?

Lally – why thank you *bows*

Mcgaughy1661 – beginning is easy…it’s the middle that’s hard

Xxbluesparklesxx – glad you like it?

Emily – Soon enough?

Pnutpotter437 – plenty of tricks, don’t worry.

Harrysgrl – nope, but something like that

Mis Granger – he thinks by keeping her in the dark he’s keeping her safe

Silver Snitch- Thanks!

Eschiva – All in due time. Yes Dumbledore is letting him stay alone, not something we expected after OotP I know. But that trust is important aspect of the story.

Kensit – Well, it’s not finished yet and I’ve always disliked my stories but with all these wonderful reviews I can’t really argue can I?

Bryana1029 – I’m glad I peaked your interest.

Akjennymay9 – Well, you may be surprised at how Hermione handled that. The things we do for love *sigh*

Lily Evans Potter – He has more of an influence on her then he realizes.

Sweet – Here’s the next chapter! I found it! Do I get a prize????

Izabel – Me either! But of course I don’t have to…he he he J

There were also plenty of anonymous reviewers.

Disclaimer: I own nothing but Aednat D’Arcy at the moment. Anything that you notice from the Harry Potter Series isn’t mine.

A/N The first part of this is an apology and an excuse so you might want to read that. The second part is my thoughts on HBP.

1. I’m dreadfully sorry. The reason I haven’t updated is because i haven’t had to write. I write to release pent up energy and anger. It’s my way of venting. Well this past summer has been excellent so honestly I completely forgot about my story. Then I had sonme rough times lately (I sprained my knee on the 26^th of August and then my car was stolen on the 31^st of August) and someone reviewed my story begging for another chapter (luv4books thank ya!) so I vented this way. It’s really a transitional chapter so…

2. HBP wasn’t what I expected. However, I’m not going to be angry at the pairings. I saw them coming for a while now. Also I’m not angry at Mugglenet.com calling H/Hr fan delusional. Think of it this way. How many times have some people ragged on H/G ships. Read the authors notes in some of the H/Hr fics on fanfiction.net. It’s all over. That’s all I have to say and besides the person who died in it, I happen to love it. Oh and one more thing. About Hermione being OOC, how many of you act the exact same way when you like a guy/girl than when you don’t like them. Come on. She’s just being the insecure girl that she is. why do you think she needs to get such good grades?

That Summer

Just a Bit of Fun

As Vernon Dursley was brushing his teeth that night, he thought about the day's events. The girl seemed normal enough, but just knowing she went to that school gave him the willies. He stopped for a moment. If he had be her on the street, he would never have known she was...what she was. Hell, he may even work with some of these people. He shivered again. He wouldn't think about it. He'd think about his promotion instead. All that money, power and respect. And soon that Potter boy would be out of his hair and they'd have no unnecessary expenses.

Potter. Vernon wished the boy didn't have to go the party. All he would do is ruin everything. But, if Potter didn't go then his boss would be suspicious. A short time after the party was announced Mr. Bare, his boss, came over to congratulate him. He mentioned how he was looking forward to seeing Vernon's family again, then he asked about Harry.

About a year ago a potential client and his 15 year old daughter had come over for dinner. Harry was, as always, left in his room as not to ruin the dinner as he had before. The daughter, Aednat was her name, had to go to the toilet and accidentally ended up in Potters room. She was up there for a good half hour before she brought him down. Vernon had to think on his feet for a reason as to why the boy hadn't joined them, and when dinner was ready they all, even the boy, say down to eat.

Surprisingly the boy had made a very good impression on the D'Arcy's. Vernon hated to admit it but he was nearly positive that the boy was the reason the deal went so smoothly. At the time Vernon and family had resented that (They were sure that they lil' duddykins would woo the girl) but with time, and money, they learned to give Harry the benefit of the doubt on this one.

Well, the D'Arcys then went to Vernon’s boss and complimented the “wonderful Potter boy” who lived with them. They told Mr. Bare his whole life story and how the Dursleys were kind enough to take him in. When Mr. Bare heard this about the boy he insisted on meeting him. Then the promotion came. Mr. Bare had all but forced Dursley to bring him and now he was stuck. Truth be told he never thought the boy would accept. All he could do now is pray that nothing ’freaky’ happened at the party. He lay down on the bed, it sinking under his weight, and sighed. At least he’s leaving tomorrow. He wouldn’t have to see that little twerp ever again (after the party of course). That happy thought had put him right to sleep.

On the other side of the house, Hermione woke up with a start. She sat there a moment trying to figure out why she had woke when she heard a load moan coming from the room next to hers.

‘He’s having a nightmare!’

Hermione was in his room before she even finished thinking that sentence. Harry was thrashing around on his bed, his covers were on the other side of the room and his pillow was on the floor next to his bed. His face was set in a grimace and he was mumbling about ‘her‘, but who she was Hermione hadn’t a clue. Hermione knew that she had to get him up but had not idea how to go about it.

“Harry, Harry wake up.”

She shook him and he groaned again and slightly opened his eyes.

“Hermione? Wha--What are you doing in my room?”

Hermione blushed at his state of undress she found Harry in. With all her worrying she didn’t think to look anywhere but his stressed face. But now that he was awake and safe she had time to get a good look. His hair was more rumpled than usual and he had a sleepy look in his eyes. But the main reason she was blushing was what he wore to bed, or absence of what he wore. A pair of black boxers was all he had on at the moment. And he couldn’t even cover up for the covers were still on the other side of the room. Apparently he didn’t notice because he was still looking at her with a confused stare.

“Hermione? What’s wrong?”

BAM! It was like she was hit with a book. All of a sudden all coherent thought was back into her head and she, reluctantly, turned her head away from his Quidditch toned chest to the blanket that still lay on the floor. She walked over to it, noting how warm the room suddenly had gotten, picked it up and tossed it back to Harry.

“I understand that you are a bit full of yourself lately, but please cover up, there’s a lady present.”

Harry gave a confused look at here and looked down at himself. His cheeks turned bright red at the sight of himself. He went to cover up but then her sarcastic remark and blushing cheeks brought a though to his mind. A mischievous smirk came to his face as he stood with a look of mock shock.

“A lady? Where? It seems to me Miss Granger that I’m not the only one that’s full of themselves.”

Hermione went to laugh then realized that he was coming closer to her. His eyes seemed almost hungry, predatory. Her breathing quickened and the blush quickly turned to a flush as he stood right in front of her. It was just then that she noticed her own state of dress. A flimsy black tank top and short shorts. He seemed to have noticed as well and looked her up and down. All coherent thought once again left her head as he licked his lips. He stopped inches away from her and she nearly melted when he whispered her name.

“Hermione?”

“Yea?” It was barely a whisper, more like a breath of an answer.

“Your blocking the door. I have to use the loo.”

Hermione stood stark still for a moment, processing what he just said before blushing once again and moving out of the way with a slight ‘sorry’.

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‘Stupid, stupid stupid.’ once he got to the loo Harry immediately began to bang his head on the doorframe. He couldn’t understand what had gotten into him. He knew he’s always felt this way for her, but he never acted on it. Never even thought to. But the dream. That was the cause of this.

It started out quite nice actually. Quite innocent as a matter of fact. Hermione and himself went for a walk around the lake to pass time before dinner. They had been doing this often, since Ron ad Luna hooked up. They talked about everything and nothing. About school, after school, boys that liked Hermione, girls that liked Harry, everything. Hermione brought it up first though.

“So Harry, we all know that the entire girl population of Hogwarts wants to get in your pants, but the real question is, who’s do you want to get into?”

Harry stammered and stuttered before he came up with a coherent comeback.

“I could say the same for you miss Granger. You first.”

“I asked you first!”

“I asked you second!”

This went on for some time until they were both on the ground laughing till it hurt. When they finally settled down it was Hermione that came up with the idea.

“Together then.”

“What?”

Hermione smiled, “We‘ll answer at the same time since you’re too scared to go first.”

Harry stuck out his tongue at her and nodded, held up his hand and counted to three.

“You.”

Both said the word quietly, and when the word sunk in they both looked up with wide eyes. Neither knew what to do so they looked at each other for the longest time before Harry got the nerve to move closer to her . Hermione’s breath caught and she stared into his emerald pools seeing that what he said was true and with a smile she closed the gap between them.

The kiss was tender, soft at first. But soon it turned into a profession of love between the two as Harry pinned her body to the ground with his own. Her hands were buried in his hair as his hands roamed over her sides and stomach. They were so engrossed in what they were doing, they didn’t hear the figure walking out of the forest and closing in on them.

It wasn’t till they heard the clapping did they stop. There stood Voldemort in all his evil glory applauding them with an disturbing smile on his face.

“This is too good to be planned. Children, caught up in loves first kiss. How romantic.”

Suddenly an unseen force pulled Hermione to the evil monster and set her down right in front of him. Harry tried to stand but it was no use as the same force that pulled Hermione to Voldemort was keeping him away.

“See what happens!” Voldemort yelled so that the whole of Hogwarts could hear, “See what happens when you defy the great Lord Voldemort!”

With that he smiled his wicked smile at Harry who could do nothing but watch and scream. Voldemort pulled his wand out and with a flash of green light she was gone. The last thing he saw before that fateful light took her away was the words on her lips.

‘I love you Harry Potter’

That was when Hermione had woke him up.

Harry thought back to her reaction and smiled. It was definitely promising. But then he thought back to the past year. They’ve grown so far apart and it was all his fault. He wasn’t there for her on her 17^th birthday, Christmas, and practically any other time she had needed him. That was another reason why he wanted to spend the rest of the summer with her. To get to know each other again.

He sighed and looked himself in the mirror.

“Well Harry, get your ass in gear and go back to your room.”

It was then that he realized he hadn’t brought any clothes and had to walk into his bedroom the same way he had walked out. He sat on the toilet, put his head in his hands and groaned.

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Hermione stood stunned for about a minute before she collapsed on Harry’s bed with a smile on her face. She took a deep breath to calm herself but that was the worst thing that she could do at that moment because his sent drifted up through her nose and she sighed. Hermione always loved how he smelled of fresh cut grass, spring rain, and a musky sent that was all his own. It was then that she remembered where she was, how she was dressed and what she was laying on and promptly stood and sat at the desk trying to gain her composure.

Harry had really frazzled her nerves. It’s not like she hasn’t been that close to a guy before. There was the Christmas party last year when Ron got really drunk and kept making passes at her because she was the only Gryffindor girl close to his age. But with Harry it had been different. The look in his eyes, the way he was dressed, his scent. It was all so overpowering that she was at a loss for words.

Out of boredom she began leafing through the papers on his desk. It was mostly just old school papers, letters from her, Ron, and strangely Neville. But there was one other that caught her eye. She didn’t recognize the writing but it looked feminine. She scanned to the bottom and saw the salutation,

Much Love,

Aednat D’Arcy.

She felt a pang in her chest as she began to read the letter. It wasn’t anything special, no deep professions of love or anything but it was shrouded in secrecy. Especially the part about ‘telling her’ about what they’ve been doing.

Hermione placed the letter back where she found it and sat back down on the bed. Thoughts raced through her head. ‘who is this girl, how does he know her, what HAVE they been doing.’ when she heard a groan from the bathroom. She shot up as if she had sat on a tack and nearly ran to the bathroom door.

“Harry, are you alright in there?”

She heard another muffled groan and a soft, “fine” from the other side of the door. The next sound she heard was of the door unlocking and opening.

“Come on Hermi, lets go back into my room before we wake someone up.”

Hermione nodded and followed him back to his room and shut the door. Harry grabbed a shirt and threw it on before he sat on the side of his bed. Hermione had moved to sit next to him but thought about it and sat on the chair instead.

“Harry, what was your dream about?”

Harry sighed and ran a hand through his already messy hair, “It was about Voldemort. They’re always about Voldemort.”

He laid back on the bed and rubbed his eyes in an effort to rid his mind of the dream, mostly the look on her face as the green light hit her. Almost serene, as if the light would be nothing but a calming charm. He couldn’t understand it. the look should be fear, it should be hate for him that he got her in this mess. Hate. Not love.

Harry felt the bed shift slightly as the weight of another person was added to it. He turned his head towards her .

“Sorry about the uh…” he waved his hand vaguely at the door to his room. She shook her head, “Don’t worry about it Harry, I know it was just a bit of fun.”

“Yea,” Harry said not meeting her eyes, “just a bit of fun.”

A/N eeek, sorry all it’s been a long time since I updated, 5 months to be exact. I’m not going to make excuses, (sprained knee, car stolen, first semester in college. All true BTW) I’m just going to get back to the story.

That Summer

Secrets, secrets are no fun…

Harry woke up to Hermione thrashing around, moaning. A sweat had broke out on her face and she looked flushed. He touched her arm to shake her awake and felt her skin hot. She must be sick, he thought as he shook her awake.

“Hermione? Wake up.”

She startled, and flung herself up and looked around. Harry saw her look at herself with confusion, then look at him. He could see shock in her features and then, oddly her eyes clouded over and she bit her lip. Something about her looked startled him, not in a bad way, what startled him more was his reaction. He wanted her, more than normal and if he didn’t say or do something right now, he wouldn’t be able to help himself from taking her right then and there. However, she wasn’t making it easy.

He cleared his throat, “Hermione, are you alright? You were dreaming.

She seemed to start again, a look of realization dawning on her face. With a whispered curse she jumped out of bed and ran from the room. Harry could hear the door of the guest room open and close sharply and he prayed it hadn’t woke his relatives. With some confusion himself he stretched and looked at the clock. The clock showed 4:30. About two and a half hours before they would be up. He decided to go see what startled Hermione so much that she not only ran from his room, but she cursed as well.

When he reached her door he heard her mumbling to herself and things thrown across the room. He knocked softly and not hearing any answer opened the door cautiously and stepped in.

“Hermione, are you alright? You ran out so suddenly that I…”

She stepped back from him as he came forward. “Please,” her voice was weak, resigned. “just stay away for a while ok? I‘ll explain everything later just, for now let‘s get ready. I need a shower and you need to pack.”

Harry nodded silently, slightly hurt that she hadn’t let him comfort her, just as she had comforted him earlier that night. He turned and with one more look at her, he left her room and closed the door.

About an hour later they were on their way. Neither Harry, nor Hermione said much as they packed her car. Harry left a note for his family telling them that he had left and would see him at the party in a few days and left it on the kitchen table. All the while stealing glances at Hermione. Her face was still flushed and she seemed to be antsy, like she had too much energy and had no way to spend it all. He wondered what was going on with her and resolved to ask her after they’ve been on the road for an hour, if she hadn’t told him already by then.

About forty-five minutes later still no words were spoken between the two. Harry remembered a old rhyme that the kids at his primary school had spoken. He smiled and chuckled a little thinking of how appropriate it is for this moment. Hermione, who had been stealing glances at him throughout the drive, noticed his amusement and broke the silence.

“What’s so funny?” Her voice startled him out of his reverie for a second but, noticing she had spoken exactly at the hour mark felt it was time to confront her.

“Just a old rhyme I thought of.” Hermione nodded thinking that would be an alright subject to get onto. Safe and far away from what happened this morning.

“Share.” Harry smiled. He had gotten her.

“Secrets, secrets, are no fun. Secrets, secrets, can hurt someone.”

Hermione blanched. Harry got a serious look on his face.

“Hermione, tell me what’s wrong. What happened this morning. One minute I‘m waking you from a bad dream, the next you looked like your were going to jump on me, then you run from my room and ransack you’re stuff. Please, you can trust me.”

Hermione simply shook her head so violently that she veered off the road. Harry grabbed the wheel and turned it to straighten the car back to a series of honks and yells from the early morning drivers. He kept his hands on the wheel, his arms brushing hers lightly. Her skin was hot and her eyes got that glazed look in them once again, yet they stayed on the road. Harry took his hands off the wheel and placed a hand on her leg.

“Hermione, there’s a diner up ahead. Let’s get something to eat.”

She simply nodded and turned into the driveway, found a parking space, and stopped the car. Once all was settled Harry took his hand off her leg. Hermione’s hands were still on the steering wheel, eyes straight forward. Her knuckles were white and she seemed to be straining for control. Harry got out of the car, locked his door and walked to her side of the car. He opened the door and placed his hands on hers. She jumped and turned to him quickly. Harry’s eyes held concern and something that was harder for her to read. He hunkered down so he was face to face with her.

“Hermione, please tell me what’s wrong.”

Hermione sighed once again and nodded. “Let’s go into the diner and I’ll tell you there.”

A/N Well then. Wonderful. I love all reviewers. And I do hope that lovely reviewer who called me a…what was it? A fat skank? Did it out of love. that’s what I’m thinking anyhow! *wink wink* ANYWHO, once again I love you all and this chapter will tell what’s wrong with Hermione and I hope you all like it and what it may imply *wink wink*. It’s been a plot that’s been bugging me for a while.

Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or anything in the books. I don’t own what’s wrong with Hermione James Cameron does, but I do own the plot.

That Summer

Heat

Harry and Hermione sat silently in the diner for almost twenty minutes. Hermione didn’t know what to say. This secret had been known to only herself and madam Pomfrey for the past three years. She definitely never thought that she would tell either Harry or Ron. Especially Harry. It was just to embarrassing. It all happened because of a mistake on her part in second year and that was embarrassing enough. Madam Pomfrey had told her that there would be side effects to the accident with the Polyjuice potion but she thought it might be a strange affinity to tuna or an intense need to feel clean. But this never occurred to her until the night in fifth year when she nearly attacked Victor in the library. When she came back to herself she had ran to the Hospital Wing. Through school she could take a potion specially made by Pomfrey for the symptoms but here, alone, with Harry. Her blood turned hot once more as she stared at him.

She must have stared for too long however because Harry had cleared his throat and said her name softly. That really didn’t help, in fact it made it worse. She was just about ready to fling herself over the table when he said in a mumble, the silence finally getting to him.

“Um, Hermione, are you going to tell me what’s going on?”

It was like a bucket of cold water was poured over her. She came back to herself and flushed.

‘well,’ she thought sighing, ‘I guess it couldn’t stay a secret forever.’

She nodded and closed her eyes. She couldn’t look at his face if she wanted to get through this. She started quietly, “you remember what happened with the polyjuice in second year?”

Harry nodded and motioned for her to continue. Then noticed that she had her eyes closed and just as quietly as her said “yea, go on.”

She took a deep breath, “well, it‘s had some side effects.” she paused and braved a look at him. He was puzzled, she knew. She didn’t know what made her think that he would put two and two together when she didn’t even get it at first.

“Well, about every three months I kinda, like, oh damn.”

She put her head in her hands as silent tears started streaming down her face. If it were a normal day she wouldn’t have such a hard time telling him, and she definitely wouldn’t be crying right now. It was just that her emotions were on overdrive and it was only going to get worse. She wished she could just disappear into the seat. Just then she felt a hand on her arm. It was comforting, warm, and manly. She started to feel the heat again and pulled away quickly.

“Please don’t touch me right now. It will only make it worse.”

She heard Harry shift uncomfortably and mumble “Sorry”

She felt horrible. He was just trying to help her and she made him feel like shit. He didn’t know what his touch did to her on a normal day, let alone during this time. She wiped her face, took a deep breath, looked straight into his eyes and said firmly.

“Every three months I go into heat, just like a cat.”

Confusion, shock, understanding, and compassion flew through his eyes. Yet, no anger, hate, or disgust was shown as she had expected. She was worried that he would see her as a freak. But he hadn’t. That helped her relax.

When he recovered a bit he said, “How long have you been going through this?”

She blushed, “It‘s the reason I went to the ball with Viktor.”

A brief flash of pain shown in his eyes but she waved it off. He spoke again. “Why didn‘t we notice before. You‘ve never acted like this.”

There food had come then and they stopped talking until the waitress had gone out of earshot. “I usually notice the signs early enough and get a potion from madam pomfrey to curve the…uh…urges. It‘s the only thing, that and a hard slap if I ever get too carried away”

He nodded and nothing else was said till they were done eating. She tried not to look at him. It would just start something that she was sure he didn’t want. It was then that she remembered that D’Arcy chick. Now would be the time to bring her up with all his insistence for her secret. She thought about using that against him if he didn’t want to tell her right away. She smiled a real smile for the first time today and looked at him.

“Harry? Who is Aednat D‘Arcy?”

He choked. Coughing he looked suspiciously at her. “How do you know about Aednat?”

She shrugged, “I noticed the name on a piece of paper on your desk. So,” she tried to sound nonchalant but even to her own ears the next phrase sounded strained, “is she your girlfriend?”

Harry laughed. That wanker laughed. Hermione just sat starring at him with one eyebrow cocked waiting for him to calm down. She was not in the mood. Even if his emerald green eyes twinkled in a way she hadn’t seen in a while, his face lit up with mirth, his whole body tensing and relaxing with the joyous laughter. Hermione almost got lost in the feelings coming over her when he stopped.

“Sorry,” he said wiping tears from the corners of his eyes. “Its just that, that‘s exactly what she said you would say if you found out about here in any way other than from me.”

He shook his head and took a sip of his water before beginning again. “No, Aednat is not my girlfriend. Ah, anymore. Come on, I’ll tell you all about her later. Aren’t we almost there. I’m beat.”

Harry started to stand. Hermione was dumbfounded at the speed that he had switched the subject. She shook her head still feeling angry and, without taking the hand he offered, stood. She saw a hurt look cross his eyes before he shrugged and walked stiffly in front of her. He didn’t really give her much an answer to her first question. In fact he hadn’t answered it at all. She watched him as he paid the bill at the counter. The pretty blonde at the register was flirting openly at him. Hermione felt an urge to go up to him and place her arm around his waist to let that little tramp know who he belonged to, and before she could stop herself she did exactly that. She leaned into his chest and on instinct he had put his arm around her shoulder. He looked quizzically at her but she avoided his gaze. She could smell him. A distinct smell that was like the rain, wind, and grass. All mingled with the smell of the soap he had used today. She felt herself flush again and remembered the very vivid dream he had woke her from this morning. It was very real. Her breathing quickened and she forgot all about the blonde and why she was pressed into his side. She forgot about Aednat, and that he had laughed. All she thought of were the muscles that she felt under his shirt, his smell, the way he looked at her first this morning with such lust, then just a short while ago when she had told him what was going on. She wanted him, oh Merlin did she want him. The dream flashed into her mind again and she felt a groan fly out her throat. She felt him lead her out of the store. She bit her lip, all logical thought was gone. When they had reached the car she pushed him up against it and crushed her lips to his.

A/N2 another short chapter. But it’s the second in a day and when was the last time I did that huh? Well, now you know what’s up with Hermione. I got the idea from Dark Angel. The James Cameron TV show that was on a few years ago. So that wasn’t my idea. If you don’t like the idea, just reread the last paragraph and know that she will be like this for three days and the worst it yet to come.