Something He Had Never Done Before!

Title : Something He Had Never Done Before!

Author Name : zsazsa72

Author Email : zuhaizahhussein@yahoo.uk

Category : Drama/Angst/Romance

Keywords : Harry & Hermione / Cho’s Revenge

Spoilers : SS/COS/POA/GOF/OOTP

Author’s Note : Speciallly dedicated to my little pumpkins, Ram, Suhaida, Xiao Hui , Divya & Ishita . And all those wonderful writers at portkey.org, fanfiction.net, schnoogle.com, pumpkinpie.org & fiction alley. Your stories were a great source of inspiration. Thank you!

Disclaimer : This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers, including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books & Raincoast Books, and Warner Brothers Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Harry Potter and his best friends, Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger were now back in Hogwarts School Of Witchcraft and Wizardry for their 6^th Year. The last summer holidays had been horrible for Harry, even though his Uncle Vernon, Aunt Petunia and cousin Dudley were slightly nicer to him, courtesy of warnings given by his friends from the Order.

What made it horrible were the constant nightmares that plagued him, especially of Sirius, his godfather who fell through the veil during the unfortunate incident at the Department of Mysteries. The last two weeks spent at the burrow with the Weasleys made him feel slightly better though till now he had not told any of his friends about the prophecy. Hermione did try to ask him to talk about Sirius but he refused, which was perfectly fine for him, as he did not wish to be reminded of his stupid and rash action that led to Sirius’ death. So with that, there was no further mention of the matter.

Harry now wanted to focus on his schoolwork and his ambition to be an auror, hopefully he could prepare himself for the worst, to kill or be killed by Voldermort!

Over the holidays, he was quite surprised to receive an owl from Cho Chang, the girl whom he had a crush on since 3^rd year, and who kissed him last year under mistletoe. She was very apologetic and wished to be friends with him again. Harry felt a little confused, but decided that perhaps she deserved at least a second chance. He however, did not mention any of this to his two best friends, dreading their reactions. He still remembered their reactions when they found out Cho kissed him last year.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Now that they were all back in school, things went about pretty normally. Snape was his usual obnoxious self, showing even greater dislike for Harry, if that was possible. He still was sore about that pensieve incident! Malfoy and company were as spiteful as ever, especially now that his father was in Azkaban! The new Defence Against the Dark Arts (DADA) teacher was, to Harry’s pleasant surprise. Remus Lupin. It was a wonderful change to Professor Umbridge, that ‘hem-hem’ woman, that evil nightmare from 5^th Year. Harry also suspected that another reason for Remus Lupin to be back at Hogwarts was to strengthen the Order’s presence now that Voldermort is back stronger than ever! And best of all, Harry was also reinstated back to his Quidditch team, much to his delight! It seemed too long since he last played.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Time passed quickly, with lots of homework and Quidditch practice. Now that they had a real DADA teacher, there was no need for DA sessions, which was rather great for Harry as he was almost up to his neck in work!

Very soon, it was almost two weeks before Christmas. Professor Dumbledore announced that a Christmas Ball would be held on Christmas Eve, before pupils return home for their holidays. Everyone was excited. Everywhere Harry went, he saw girls huddled close together, giggling and discussing about their dress robes and dates. Some of them pointed at him as he walked past and giggled even more, reminding him of 4^th Year Yule Ball when he had several girls asking him to be their date. That year Harry had asked Cho, but was turned down as she had already agreed to go with Cedric Diggory!

Just as he sat down to join Ron and Hermione for lunch and at the same time contemplating who he should ask, Cho Chang appeared before the Gryffindor table, surprising him! She whispered something into his ear and he stood up to follow her out of the Great Hall. As he walked, he noticed Ron’s broad grin and Hermione’s slight frown!

A few minutes later, Harry got back to the table, looking slightly dazed!

“So Harry, got another wet one from her?” Ron snickered.

“No Ron, she … she just wanted to say hi.” Harry mumbled.

“I thought she was dating Michael Corner. Isn’t that right, Hermione?” Ron asked, looking at Hermione.

Hermione just shrugged her shoulders, looking disinterested.

“Guys. I er…er… have something to confess.” Harry said quietly.

“WHAT?” Both Ron and Hermione asked at the same time.

“Well…er… Cho and I have been writing to each other during the summer holiday. She…she wrote to me first, apologizing for what happened last year and I… I thought she deserved another chance.” Harry explained, his face slightly red!

“Great mate! So are you two going on a date then?” Ron asked excitedly. Hermione was surprisingly quiet thou.

“Well…” Before Harry could answer, it was almost time for their next class.

Ron and Harry went to North Tower for their Divination and Hermione to Arithmancy. They agreed to meet back in the common room later. As Hermione was walking towards her class, a small girl, most likely a 1^st Year, came up to her and passed her a piece of parchment. “Um… I think you must have dropped this.” She said shyly, Hermione took the parchment and saw her name on it. She turned it over and to her surprise, words began to appear on what was initially a blank page.

“Meet me in the 3^rd floor girls’ bathroom at the North Tower after your lesson. We need to discuss some girly matters!’

Strange! There was no signature on it. After she had finished reading it, the parchment transformed into a long-stemmed stalk of rose. Wow! Very impressive! The person who did this must be real smart to be able to achieve such feat! Hermione then walked hurriedly to her Arithmancy class.

~~~~~

Some time passed and lesson was soon over. Hermione was rather anxious to meet up with the mysterious person who sent her the parchment. Since the bathroom was located in the North Tower where Harry and Ron had their Divination class, Hermione thought she might just be able to meet up with them along the hallway. Entering the bathroom, she was surprised to find Cho Chang standing in front of a large mirror by the wall.

“Were you the one who sent me that parchment?” Hermione asked suspiciously.

“Yes I did! Don’t you think it was clever of me? You are not the only brainy one here at Hogwarts!” Cho replied snidely.

“Well then, what do you want from me?” Hermione asked.

“I have heard a lot about you and your cleverness. I also understand that you are the best pupil in your house. I would like to see for myself how good you are.” Cho smirked.

“”What are you on about? Just tell me what you want and stop beating about the bush!” Hermione replied, feeling annoyed at the Ravenclaw.

“Well, I heard you are very well-versed in many spells and I want to see for myself if I can block out any spell you throw at me. Let’s see who is faster and better.” Cho smirked again.

“Cho, I think you are delirious! I am not going to have a duel with you.”

“Are you afraid, Hermione? Where is that Gryffindor courage that I heard you possess in abundance? Or are you only brave in front of certain people?” Cho taunted.

Hermione’s face flushed in anger.

“”All right Cho. If you are really keen, then let’s do it!”

Soon both girls had their wands held before them. They regarded each other, each waiting for the other to make the first move. Just as Hermione saw Cho open her mouth, she quickly yelled. “Expelliarmus!” Her intention was to extract the wand from Cho’s hand. Instead, as Cho was holding tightly to it, she was flung against the mirror on the wall. The mirror broke with a loud crash! Cho slumped down onto the floor. Hermione was shocked and stood rooted to the ground in disbelief.

~~~~~

In the meantime, Harry was pacing outside the girls’ bathroom, waiting for Cho, who had earlier during lunch asked him to meet her out there after his lesson.

Still in a daze, Hermione barely heard the approaching footsteps and almost fainted when the door slammed opened to reveal Harry Potter with a wand in his hand. ‘What must he be thinking?’ Hermione shuddered at the thought. Seeing her with a wand in her hand and Cho slumped on the floor with blood oozing from the back of her head, Harry asked, ”What have you done?”

Those four words were like knives stabbing at her. Harry’s words broke her heart! And to make matters worse, Cho whispered, though Hermione could hear her clearly in the still of the bathroom, “Sh.. she attacked me!” before passing out! Just then, more footsteps could be heard. Professor McGonagall came in with Professor Snape! They took a look at the scene and immediately conjured up a stretcher for Cho. Professor McGonagall levitated the stretcher up to the hospital wing. Professor Snape then, with a nasty smile took Harry and Hermione up to Professor Dumbledore’s office.

~~~~~

At Professor Dumbledore’s office, Harry reluctantly told him what he saw. Hermione was silent. She knew that the evident was against her, no matter what she said. Whatever could she say, as the injured Cho was apparently a victim of a spell from her wand! Cho had tricked her and furthermore, Harry seemed to believe her. She could not look at Harry’s face. Dumbledore then took both Hermione’s and Cho’s wands and muttered a spell. Hermione knew what he was doing. She also knew what was coming up! Sparks would only come out from her wand, as Cho did not cast any spell with hers! True enough, red and gold sparks shot out from her wand and none from Cho.

Dumbledore then turned to her and asked if it was true that she had cast a spell on Cho. Hermione could only nod her head as tears spilled down her cheeks.

“Well Miss Granger, I hope you realise that with this evident you have committed a serious offence. I have no choice but to punish you.” Dumbledore said to Hermione, with a sad look in his eyes.

“Do you have anything to say for yourself?” He asked.

Hermione just shook her head as more tears spilled down.

“Well then Miss Granger, you will be given a month of detention with…. me and I am afraid that your prefect duty will be suspended for the time being.” Dumbledore said quietly.

With trembling fingers, Hermione unfastened her badge from her cloak and handed it to Dumbledore. Harry looked on in silence.

“And one more thing Miss Granger, I know you are most afraid of this, but be rest assured that you will not be expelled! Miss Chang will soon recover from her injury and I am very sure that she will not press any charges against you. I do hope that you have learnt a lesson from this.” Dumbledore said, smiling slightly when he saw the relief on Hermione’s face.

Hermione couldn’t help thinking that she had indeed learnt a valuable lesson; some people would resort to all kinds of means to get what they want!

“Thank you Professor. I am really…. really sorry about all this.” She replied.

They were dismissed. As they silently walked along the hallway, Harry suddenly stopped and asked, “Why Hermione, why did you do it? I…I know you don’t really like her, but..but she had been through a lot, you of all people should know that.”

“She’s not a bad person, she…she has become my friend.” Harry continued.

Hearing this, Hermione’s lips trembled as she fought against crying and ran as fast as she could. She needed to get away, especially from Harry. ‘What about her? Hermione Granger is Harry Potter’s best friend, or has he forgotten that! How could he even question her?’ Hermione thought sadly as she ran blindly with tears streaming down her face.

As she ran, she recalled how stupid she was. After all, Hermione Granger, Harry Potter’s so-called best friend, was no match for Cho Chang, Harry Potter’s crush! Her earlier thoughts in Dumbledore’s office came back to her. She had underestimated Cho Chang. Cho was obviously angry with her for her so-called interference in her relationship with Harry! To think that Harry had foolishly mentioned meeting her halfway during his Valentine’s date with Cho! She must have thought that Hermione did it deliberately, but the thruth was that Rita Skeeter was only able to meet with them on that day. Cho was getting her revenge. ‘Oh! If only Harry could see that! ‘ She thought sadly as she stood in front of the portrait of the Fat Lady.

~~~~~

Hermione said the password and entered the common room. Ron who had probably heard what had happened (news at Hogwarts travel very fast indeed) stood up to meet her. Hermione told Ron about her detention and that she had been suspended from her prefectorial duty. Ron was stunned! But he was not convinced of what he had heard from the others and insisted that Hermione tell him exactly what had happened. Hermione told Ron that since the evident was clearly against her, there was no way people would believe otherwise. Even Harry doubted her!

With a sigh Ron said, “I know you Hermione and that you would never do anything of that sort.”

Hermione gave a small smile at hearing this.

“Did you tell Harry all these?” Ron asked.

“It doesn’t matter anymore Ron. The truth will be out eventually.” She answered in a quiet voice.

“Where is that prat, by the way?” Ron asked frowning.

“I think he went to see Cho at the hospital wing.” Ron frowned even more.

“Well Ron, I am really exhausted. I’m going up to bed. Thank you for believing me.” Hermione gave Ron a hug and walked quietly up to her dorm.

As Hermione got to her room, she threw her cloak off, changed into her pyjamas and flopped down onto her bed. Fully aware that her roommates were whispering in the dark, she closed the curtains, cast a silencing spell around her bed area and cried herself to sleep. At least no one could hear her cry!

~~~~~

The next few days were simply hell! Everywhere she went, the other students were whispering and pointing at her. Obviously they were talking about her and Cho. She was not even surprised when she heard Malfoy’s voice yelling, “BEWARE! The mudblood still has her wand! Don’t cross her path!” The Slytherin nearby laughed loudly. Hermione ignored them and walked towards Ron who was waiting for her at the entrance of the great Hall.

“You ok Hermione?” he asked.

“Yeah… I’ll be fine.” She answered quietly.

They then headed in for breakfast. They were just barely walking a few steps when Hermione stopped suddenly and excused herself, saying that she had forgotten a book. Ron was puzzled for a while but then understood her hasty retreat when he turned round to face the Gryffindor table. Cho was there sitting beside Harry, deep in conversation!

From that day onwards, Hermione avoided all meal times in the Great Hall. Instead she went to the kitchen to grab some food and then proceeded to have her meals outside under a tree by the lake. At times she ate in the empty Astronomy Tower. Her free time would be spent at her favourite corner in the library, or in her dorm. Even in classes she would sit beside Ron and at times Neville Longbottom. She only talked to Harry when it was absolutely necessary, which was hardly the case. Fortunately for her, Harry was also not too keen to talk to her. Ron just looked sadly at one best friend and frowned at the other.

~~~~~

Soon the eagerly awaited Christmas Ball was just around the corner. Ron had asked Hermione to go with him but she politely declined. Then feeling hungry, and thinking of the food he could grab from the kitchen, he stepped out of the portrait hole, only to find Luna Lovegood pacing in front of it. Luna stopped her pacing as she saw Ron.

“Ronald. I have been waiting for you!” she spoke dreamily. Ron winced at her use of his full name.

“Huh! Wh…Why were you waiting for me?” he asked, rather afraid of the answer.

“Ronald, will you go to the Christmas Ball with me?” she asked excitedly, her eyes bright and slightly bulging out.

“Huh! Wh…What?” Ron couldn’t believe what he was hearing.

“So Ronald, will you go with me? It will be great. We don’t even have to dance. I know you hate dancing!” Luna continued excitedly, seeming unaware of Ron’s discomfort.

“Er..er I’d love to Luna but-“ Before he could finish his sentence, Luna jumped happily, shocking Ron, his reply practically forgotten. Before he could say anything more, Luna skipped away, singing loudly, “WEASLEY IS MY KING….”

Ron stood frozen on the spot. He was no longer hungry! His appetite had skipped away, along with Loony Luna!

~~~~~

On the night of the Christmas Ball, Harry and Ron were in their dorm, putting on their dress robes. Ron was looking slightly happier in his new dress robes as compared to 4^th year, courtesy of Greed and Forge, his prankful twin bothers. They were walking down the stairs when Harry asked who he was going with? Ron was startled, as he had purposely forgotten to mention his date to Harry.

“Er…er..L..Luna Lovegood.” He answered quietly.

“WHAT! Loony Luna?” Harry yelled, surprised, and then started grinning at Ron. Ron’s face was red with embarrassment!

“Yeah! It’s a long story! I’ll tell you another day. You know, I did ask Hermione but she declined. Did you ask her to go or something? “ Ron asked, noticing is best friend’s face turning slightly pink at he mention of Hermione’s name. Harry looked uncomfortable!

So…. Did you?” Ron asked again, enjoying the look on Harry’s face.

“No.” Harry answered quietly.

“So.. who are you going with?” Ron asked impatiently.

“Uh… Ch..Cho asked me to go with her.” Came the reply.

“Cho Chang! Why am I not surprised?” Ron said, a slight frown on his face.

“Hey Ron, Her…Hermione hasn’t been showing up during meals and you seem to be the only one who has seen and talked to her. Is…is she avoiding me? Harry asked. Ron detected a jealous tone in his face.

‘So that prat knows how to feel jealous! GOOD! Serves him right!’ Ron turned his face away from Harry and smiled.

“”Well Harry, I thought you didn’t notice!” Ron answered a little sarcastically.

“Hermione talks to me because I am one of her best friend after all! As for why she is avoiding you, why don’t you find out for yourself?” Ron continued, and walked out of the portrait hole.

Harry stood there, Ron’s words echoing in his head.

“Harry…. Hey Harry! Aren’t you coming? You wouldn’t want to keep your darling Cho waiting, would you?” Ron asked, bemused at Harry’s blank expression.

Harry looked up from his daze and saw Ron standing outside the portrait hole, eyebrows raised!

They were silent as they walked to the Great Hall. They stopped near the entrance when they saw Cho standing beside a pretty girl in a robe hat matched Ro’s hair. Blimey! As they get closer, their jaws dropped! It was Luna, and she looked pretty… pretty strange! She had a carrot hair band, with matching carrots dangling from her ears! To complete the look, she wore a string of little carrots around her neck, as well as carrot bracelets on both wrists! Harry couldn’t help smiling.

“Wow Loony… oops Luna, you look nice!” Harry said. Ron’s face was so red they almost matched his hair!

“Hi Ronald!” Luna exclaimed happily.

“Er…er Hi!” Ron stuttered.

“Harry! Let’s go in!” Cho said loudly, pulling his arm.

“Oh Cho! I didn’t notice you!” Harry said deliberately.

~~~~~

The two couples then stepped into the Great Hall. An amazing sight stood before them! The Great Hall had been transformed into a magnificent ballroom. A few couples were already dancing to a song by ‘The Weird Sisters’.

“Harry, let’s dance” Cho exclaimed excitedly, pulling him towards the dance floor.

Harry, who at Fourth Year was jealous of Cho dancing with Cedric and would have given anything to be her date, was surprisingly not very enthusiastic. He let Cho stir him around the dance floor while his green eyes searched the place for Hermione.

When the music stopped, Cho’s face was flushed in anger! “Harry, why are you not enjoying the dance?”

“Huh! Wh..what did you say?” Harry asked.

“Oh boy!” Cho replied through gritted teeth and pulled him towards the tables. They sat down in silence as they watched Ron and Luna at the buffet table, loading up their plates with an assortment of cakes and pastries.

“Harry! HARRY!” Cho yelled. her face still flushed in anger.

Harry turned to look at Cho.

“What’s wrong with you? You are not paying any attention to me!” Cho said, a scowl on her face.

“Oh… nothing.” He answered lazily. He then turned around and scanned the room looking for Hermione.

Minutes later when the music started again, Cho insisted on dancing. Harry refused, instead got up to go to the buffet table for a drink. ‘Cho is becoming really annoying’, Harry thought to himself as he sipped his butterbeer. He scanned the room once again for Hermione but there was no sign of her anywhere. Time seemed to pass very slowly and the noise and the crowd seemed to be suffocating him. He needed fresh air. He needed to get out of there. Furthermore he missed Hermione. ‘Did she even come to the ball’ Harry wondered sadly as he quietly slipped out of the Great Hall.

~~~~~

In the meantime, Hermione had holed herself up in Moaning Myrtle’s bathroom, just as the girls wee getting ready for the ball. At least Myrtle did not seem to mind her presence. Thinking that it was safe enough to return to the common room, she slipped out of the bathroom and ran up the stairs to Gryffindor Tower. She had already done her packing and since she was going away for just a week, she just packed a few books in her backpack. She then grabbed her presents for Harry and Ron. As she picked them up from her bedside table, she realized that she had forgotten to put her photo frame into her bag.

It was a photo of herself, Harry and Ron. It was taken last year when they spent Christmas at Grimmauld Place. In it, Harry and Ron were goofing around while she looked up at Harry with a smile. She still remembered how she felt that day; she had cancelled her skiing trip with her parents to get to Harry when she heard what had happened to Mr Weasley. What she did not expect was that Harry had imposed a self-exile on himself, thinking that it was his fault and that he was the cause of it all. Just like Harry to think that way! What followed was her cancelling her plans with her parents on the pretext of staying back to study for her OWLS and rushing off to Grimmauld Place. She was so happy she was able to get him out of his depression and subsequently things between Harry and the Weasleys, specifically Ron and Ginny, got back to normal. But Harry’s happiness was cut short, as not long after, his godfather Sirius, was lost in the battle at the Department of Mysteries. Brushing away tears that found their way down her cheeks, Hermione was reminded of the conversation she had with Dumbledore.

Flashback

“You’re sure about this, Miss Granger?” Dumbledore asked.

“Yes sir.” She replied.

“Well then, here’s the portkey. It can only be activated at 10 o’clock sharp tonight for your trip back home. As for returning back, you just hold on to it and think of Hogwarts, any day and anytime you wish.” Dumbledore said with a twinkle in his ye.

He handed he a book. But it was not just any book; it was a mini version of Hogwarts: A History! Dumbledore smiled at her as she thanked him and left his office.

Hermione was brought back to the present as she caught sight of the time on the clock. It’s 5 to 10! She’d better hurry. She quickly grabbed the photo frame and stuffed it into her backpack. She ran down the stairs, put the presents under the Christmas tree, along with a letter for Ron. When the long hand of the clock struck 12, she held onto the portkey and closed her eyes. Immediately she felt a pull from behind her navel. The feeling was over within seconds.

The moment she opened her eyes, she found herself in her living room. She heard her parents’ voices from the kitchen. She looked down and saw the book on the floor, a little piece of parchment sticking out from it. She picked it up and smiled as she read it, ‘Miss Granger, be brave! The truth will come to light one day. Happy Christmas! Keep this book as a gift from me, I know you love reading it! Hermione then ran into the kitchen to surprise her parents.

***

Meanwhile, back at Hogwarts, a lone figure could be seen walking towards Gryffindor Tower. Harry Potter had quietly slipped away from the Christmas Ball and was walking through the portrait hole. If he had been a minute early, he would have seen Hermione by the Christmas tree, holding on to her portkey. Well perhaps he was not meant to see her there! He slowly made his way up to his dorm and crashed onto his bed! As he turned, he caught a glance at the photo frame on his bedside table.

It was a photo of himself, Ron and Hermione. It was taken last year when they spent Christmas at Grimmauld Place. In it, Harry and Ron were goofing around while Hermione looked up at him with a smile. He could still remember what happened that day; she had cancelled her skiing trip with her parents and had been the only one able to draw him out of his self-imposed exile, thinking that it was his fault that Mr Weasley was hurt. He could still remember how she looked that day; snow still in her hair and cheeks flushed red from the cold! She was indeed his other best friend besides Ron. No wonder Ron seemed annoyed with him! He deserved it! ‘Hermione……. I miss you!’ he thought sadly. He resolved to make up with her tomorrow. With that he fell asleep in his dress robes, clutching the photo frame to his chest.

***

The next morning, Ron woke him up. They washed up, dressed and went downstairs to the common room. Harry was looking forward to seeing Hermione, as the trio would never fail to wake up early on Christmas morning to open their presents. It had been somewhat of a tradition for them, one which Hermione started It began one Christmas morning when Hermione, who could not wait for them to get up, had dashed up to their dorm and jumped on their beds! Harry smiled at the memory.

“Hey Harry! Your present!” Ron’s voice startled him.

He tore the wrappings and found a square box. Opening it he let out a small gasp as he held a snitch. His name was engraved on it. His very own snitch! Looking closely, he saw a little H.G written at the base of it. ‘Hermione…… she gave me a snitch of my own!’

Just like her to get him what he liked! He barely heard Ron groaning beside him.

“Oh come on, not another book, Hermione!” he heard Ron muttering.

And then, “Blimey! It’s not just any book, Harry look!” Ron exclaimed excitedly.

Harry looked at the cover page, ‘Quidditch: All The Best Keepers!’ Ron was grinning broadly as he took and tore open an envelope in his and. His grin was replaced with a sad smile.

Harry looked a him puzzled but before he could ask anything, Ron handed him the letter. He recognized Hermione’s neat handwriting immediately. He held his breadth as he read the letter.

‘Dear Ron, by the time you read this, I would already be back home with my parents for Christmas. Don’t worry, I got permission from Dumbledore. I missed my parents, and with things not going so well in school, I thought it would be best to get away for a while. I hope you like your gift. And I know you would be annoyed at first when find that it is a book <smile>. Happy Christmas Ron! You’ve been a great friend. Love, Hermione. PS: Please send my best wishes to Harry and I hope he likes his gift!’

“Harry! HARRY! You all right mate?” Ron asked, looking worried when he saw his friend turning pale.

Harry let go of the breadth he was holding and looked at Ron.

“What have I done Ron?” he asked sadly.

“Don’t worry Harry! I’m sure things will get better when she comes back. She just needs this break terribly.” Ron answered, giving him a smile.

Harry nodded and felt slightly better. He then grinned at Ron and asked, “So Ronald, ho was your date with Loony Luna?”

At that, Ron’s ears immediately turned red!

“Its….. its not a date!” Ron stammered.

“Oh really….. you two seemed to enjoy yourselves last night!” Harry said brightly.

“Um… well, she’s actually quite ok, if you ignore her momentary lapse of all things strange!” Ron answered shyly.

“Speaking about date, I assume yours turned out bad, judging from the scowl on Cho’s face. And you, my friend, went missing ever since your first dance with her. What happened?” Ron asked.

“I don’t know Ron! It’s just that I don’t feel the same way I did in Third year. And I also find her rather annoying; she just assumed that I would do what she asked. And…and… she’s not like ….-” he trailed off.

“And what Harry? Not like who?” Ron asked, feeling bemused.

“Oh well… I…I….mm…miss Hermione.” Harry answered quietly, a faint blush on his face.

“I am glad to hear that. And from what I can see, you have one major make up to do. But for now, let’s just enjoy our Christmas break. You’ve got me, Ginny, Neville and….and… L..Luna to keep you company.” Ron said as he exchanged presents with Harry.

The next few days were filled with snow fights and playing Exploding Snaps and Wizards Chess, as Harry, Ron, Ginny, Neville and Luna enjoyed themselves. However, Harry could not help but feel something, or rather someone missing from the scene. He missed Hermione terribly! And every night throughout the week, when the others had gone to bed, and after making sure that Ron had plunged into dreamland, Harry grabbed his invisibility cloak and walked around the castle.

On the last night of Christmas break, Harry went on his nightly routine. Just as he was rounding a corner, he heard someone giggling from behind a statue. Feeling curious, he walked quietly towards the sound. To his surprise, he saw Cho Chang with Marietta Edgecombe, that sneak! They were laughing as they talked.

“Oh Cho! That was so clever of you! To think that the so-called brilliant Hermione Granger could be outsmarted by you. But….but.. Weren’t you afraid of what hex she could have used on you?” Marietta asked.

“Of course it was risky! But it was worth it! You should have seen the look on her face when Harry came in at the right time and asked her what she had done.” They laughed again.

Harry’s blood was boiling.

“I could see the hurt in her eyes. I was right you know, when I suspected her of having feelings for Harry Potter. To think she had the nerve to ask Harry to meet up with her on our Valentine’s date! Harry may be blind, obvious, but I’m NOT!” Cho said, her eyes flashing.

“Serves her right for coming in between Harry and me! She must be kidding if she thinks ha famous Harry Potter could be attracted to her, what with her bushy hair! She’s such a bookworm, even we don’t spend that much time in the library and we’re in Ravenclaw!” Cho added, and they laughed even more.

Harry Potter was mad, extremely MAD! He griped his wand tightly and almost threw off his invisibility cloak, but then hesitated at the last moment. Revealing himself now wouldn’t be grand enough! He needed to do something better, he smirked. Let’s make the exposure more spectacular! With that thought in mind, he felt his anger melt a little. I am going to make it up to you – Hermione!

*****

Minutes later Harry walked through the portrait of the Fat Lady and was about to go up the stairs when he heard a soft sniffing from a corner of the common room. Tightening his invisibility cloak around him, he walked quietly towards the sound and was pleasantly surprised to find Hermione asleep in an armchair. ‘When did she get back?’ he wondered. As he got closer, he saw a single tear slide down her cheek. He felt an ache in his heart. Forgive me Hermione!

Quietly, he kneeled down in front of her. “I miss you so much,” he whispered to her. As he looked at her, he noticed that she was hugging Hogwarts: A History to her chest. Harry smiled at this, some things never change! Suddenly Hermione shifted a little; her hands slowly slide down and with them the book, only to reveal a smaller book beneath it. Harry gasped when he saw the title of the other book, ‘New Theory Of Numerology‘. The book he got her last Christmas! He felt his heart constrict in pain! How could he have been so blind all these while? She cared so much for him, too much indeed! She wanted him to be happy, even at her own expense! She must have thought that he was happy with Cho and thus did not want to get in the way. He really should be known as ‘Harry Potter, The Stupid-Boy-Who-Lived’!

He had really taken Hermione for granted! She, who was there with him, for him, every step of the way! She was with him in good and bad times! She even dared to tread where others (even his other best friend Ron) feared, daring to incur his wrath in order to keep him safe! Hell, in their Third year, she had even risked putting their friendship on the line when she told McGonagall about his Firebolt! That year saw Ron and him drifting away from her and as Hagrid told them, Hermione was very often in tears when she visited him and told him about them. What a jerk he had been! Ironically in Fourth year when he was named as one of the Triwizard Champions, only she believed he did not put his name in the Goblet of Fire. That year Ron drifted from him and he spent his time with Hermione, she was almost his only supporter throughout his preparation for the given tasks, sacrificing her sleep and actually missing her lessons to help him. He could still clearly recall the long walks they took around the lake! And just last year, when he was angry and frustrated, he practically took it out on her, with his constant outburst and yelling! And did she stay away from him? She was constantly with him and tolerated his moods. Even when she knew he was risking their lives by going to the Ministry of Magic to rescue Sirius, she was at his side all the way until…… she got hurt. He actually stopped breathing as he saw her fall, her body lifeless o the ground!

And to think that she did all that for him! Had it not been for Hermione, he would have been dead many times over. He would not even be alive now if she had not solved the potion puzzle in his First year at Hogwarts! She had given so much of herself at the expense of her own health and happiness, not expecting anything in return, only his safety and his happiness matters!

That bossy-bushy-haired-know-it-all little girl had blossomed into a lovely, caring and wonderful young lady, right in front of his eyes and he was damn blind to see! Harry’s vision soon became blurred as tears slid down his face. Brushing them away and gazing at her pretty face (she was definitely not ugly- he bemused), he made a promise to himself to make her happy, keep her safe and give her what she rightfully deserved! I will no longer be The Stupid-Boy-Who-Lived’ for I will now be The Stupid-Boy-Who-Makes –Hermione-Happy-Safe-L…..Loved’! With his determination set, he brushed his thumb gently across her soft cheeks before standing up and walking up to his dorm.

*****

The next morning, after dressing up hurriedly and telling Ron of Hermione’s return, they both dashed down the stairs. Unfortunately, according to Parvati and Lavender, Hermione had left the dorm even before they got up. Hearing that, the two boys ran all the way to the Great Hall, hoping to catch her at breakfast. To their disappointment, she was nowhere in sight! Where could she be, even the library was not open that early! With a sigh, they both sat down for their breakfast. Harry then told Ron what he overheard last night. Ron’s face grew red with anger upon hearing it.

Harry then told Ron about his plan and with that, he took out the DA coin from his pocket, pointed his wand at it and muttered a spell. The ever-brilliant Hermione taught him the spell, by the way! At once, the date and time appeared on the coin. Ron felt a slight warmth in his pocket and immediately took out the coin from it and saw that the new date and time for the DA session were now engraved on it.

“Bloody brilliant, mate!” he exclaimed loudly, drawing the attention of other students nearby. He then glanced around and saw the knowing look of the other students who were in the DA. Harry let out a silent ‘YES!” as his plan had been put in place. As the muggle saying goes, ‘Let’s get the ball rolling!’

Soon night came, and Harry went off earlier to the Room of Requirement. Ron had as planned, was waiting for Hermione in the common room. Hermione knew there was a DA session that night as she also felt the DA coin in her pocket grew warm and she had seen the date and time engraved on it. Though she felt a little sad at not attending it, the fact that Harry remembered the spell she taught him made her feel slightly better. She saw Ron in the common room and sat down beside him. When Ron gave her Harry’s invisibility cloak, she was puzzled! Ron then told she could watch how nervous Harry would be and she could even make a count of the number of times he stuttered. Hearing that, Hermione gave him a small smile as they walked out of the common room.

When they got to the Room of Requirement, only Neville, Ginny and Luna were present. Ron gave Harry a knowing smile, which he returned. Soon more and more DA members stepped into the room. The moment Cho Chang stepped into the room, Ron’s ears grew red and he heard a little gasp from the empty space beside him where Hermione under the invisibility cloak stood. Harry had s smirk on his face and at once Ron was reminded of nasty Draco Malfoy with something up his sleeve! Cho looked around and seeing Harry’s darling nowhere in sight, smiled triumphantly. She then moved and stood beside Harry. Once everyone had settled down, Harry began, feeling slightly nervous at first.

“Er…Wwwelcome back! It’s been s..sometime since we last met. I feel that it is…uh…rather important that we…uh…meet again as many more things had h..happened.” Everyone looked at him quietly. Harry looked over at Ron, Neville, Ginny and Luna and noticed the sad look on their faces. Of course they what had happened!

“We really need to be more prepared in case even more terrible things happen,” Harry said determinedly.

“Tonight we are going to practice duelling to assess how quick or slow we are in the face of an opponent. It is also of great to be importance to be alert and ready at all times.” Harry continued, quite surprised at himself as he was no longer nervous.

With that said, he could not help noticing the stricken look on Ron, Neville, Ginny and Luna. He was sure that Hermione looked likewise underneath his invisibility cloak. Only they could understand what it was like fighting for their life and the severity of the situation.

Without further ado, Harry said, “I volunteer myself for the first duel and I will pick my opponent.”

Everyone looked at each other, perhaps thinking, ‘I really hope he does not pick me, I mean he is after all Harry Potter, the one who had faced You-Know-Who!’ Harry almost laughed at the look on their faces!

“Well….. I shall pick Miss Cho Chang as my opponent,” Harry said with a little smile.

Cho was ecstatic! “It would be an honour, Mr Harry Potter,” she answered happily.

They then took their stance. Everyone in the room was so silent you could hear a pin drop! Seconds later, with both wands out, Harry and Cho stood a few feet apart, a look of concentration on both their faces. Suddenly Harry opened his mouth. Not to be outdone, Cho quickly yelled, “Expelliarmus!”

Harry held on tightly to his wand and as a result, he was flung against the wall. Everyone was shocked. Some girls screamed! After recovering from their shock, Ron, Neville and Ginny ran to Harry.

“Harry, are…are you all right? I’m so…sorry!” Cho stuttered, her eyes bright with unshed tears.

“Yeah mate, are you ok?” Ron asked worriedly. It was so unlike Harry to be unable to block such a simple spell from Cho when he had survived You-Know-Who countless times! To his surprise, Harry gave a wink, unnoticed by the others. Ron, usually the last to connect to Harry’s thoughts, surprisingly understood it was a part of Harry’s plan.

Both he and B=Neville helped Harry up and they heard a collective sigh of relief all around! Harry stood facing everyone.

“It;\’s ok everyone, I’m fine! I’m not hurt!” he said.

He continued, “What did you observe from the duel we just had?”

Everyone was quietly thinking, when a voice spoke up, “You didn’t cast any spell Harry!”

It was Loony Luna! All eyes in the room shifted from Harry to Luna and then back to Harry again.

Cho’s eyes were as wide as saucers as she realized the similarity of the situation! Hermione, who was under the invisibility cloak, suppressed a gasp as she realized the same thing!

“Very good Luna! Great observation! If I had been a real teacher, I would award 10 points to Ravenclaw.” Harry said with a smile.

Luna Lovegood smiled and a few of the Ravenclaws chuckled.

“What you just saw was a one-sided duel as only one opponent participated. Firstly, I did not cast any spell even though I opened my mouth as if to say something. It’s true that Cho had seen me do that and thus thought that I was going to utter a spell. I had actually tricked her into hexing me first!” Harry explained.

“Secondly, since I was holding tightly to my wand, a simple disarming spell was powerful enough to send me crashing to the wall.” Harry explained further.

Harry looked at Cho who was now crying.

“That was exactly what happened between Hermione Granger and Cho Chang in the girls’ bathroom about two weeks ago!” Harry said, looking around and saw the shock on everyone’s faces. Ginny’s face had turned as red as her hair! Everyone now turned to look at Cho who had covered her face with her hands and crying even more!

Harry ignored her crying and continued, “I had been fortunate enough to be waiting for Cho near the girls’ bathroom as she had requested earlier at lunch. And I witnessed the same scene, only with Cho down and Hermione holding her wand!” Harry’s voice was getting harsh as he tried to suppress his anger.

“And I was also very fortunate to overhear Cho bragging about it to Marietta Edgecombe last night.”

At hearing that sneak’s name, anger flashed in everyone’s eyes!

“How could you? What has she done to you? I knew it; Hermione would never attack anyone without a good reason! We owe her a big apology!” Harry heard voices mutter around him.

He put up his hand and the room became quiet again, save the sobs from Cho.

He then motioned towards Ron and said, “We do owe Hermione a huge apology, especially me, stupid Harry Potter!”

With that, Ron whipped the invisibility cloak beside him and everyone saw Hermione standing beside Ron in tears. Ginny and Luna ran to her and hugged her. Soon everyone was surrounding Hermione. The girls were hugging her while the boys shook her hand.

Out of the corner of Harry’s eye, he spotted Ch quietly leaving the room ‘Good riddance!’ He thought to himself. Harry then moved towards Hermione as the others gave way to him. He stood in front of her, took both her ands in his and said, “I am so sorry Hermione! Please forgive me, stupid and blind Harry Potter!”

Hearing that, Hermione threw herself against Harry in a tight embrace! She sobbed into his shoulder, while he rubbed her back to comfort her, all the while whispering his apology.

Both Harry and Hermione were so engrossed in their embrace that they were oblivious to the people around! They hardly noticed the wolf whistles and catcalls around them. Soon Harry was made aware of all this when Ron tapped his shoulder! Harry and Hermione broke apart, both blushing slightly. Harry then pulled Ron and Hermione to him in a group hug. Everyone was clapping happily as they witnessed the wonderful scene. The trio was back again, stronger than ever. Some of the girls, Ginny, and surprisingly even Luna shed some happy tears. Moments later Harry dismissed the DA members, promising another meeting very soon and more opportunities for duelling. Everyone left the room with a satisfied smile on their faces!

*****

Back in the Gryffindor common room, the three best friends squeezed onto a couch by the fire, Hermione in-between the two boys, a happy smile on each of their faces. Ron then let out a huge yawn and excused himself to head to bed. Smiling to himself as he walked up the stairs, he knew that his two best friends needed some time alone. Both Harry and Hermione remained seated quietly beside each other, gazing at the fire. The silent was broken when Harry stood up and kneeled before her. It was exactly like last night, minus the invisibility cloak and the fact that Hermione was wide-awake and smiling.

Harry tool Hermione’s right hand in his and placed it on his head. Hermione looked puzzled.

“Hermione, I want you to swear on me that you would hex me with your best or worst spell if I should ever doubt you again in the future!” Harry said solemnly.

Hermione was bemused, “Harry, its not necessary!”

Harry’s face turned very serious as he spoke, “I would not get up from this spot if you don’t give me your promise. I’ll remain as long as it takes you to make that promise!”

With a smile, Hermione agreed to it. Harry then took both her hands in his.

“Thank you Hermione! I am very sorry…. for all the hurt that I’ve caused you these past few weeks. You’ve always been there for me all these years and….. I am very sorry for taking you for granted. You have sacrificed a lot… to be my best friend and I have never shown you my appreciation. I was a terrible prat last year, yelling at you a lot, but you stood strong by my side. This year… I was a jerk for allowing myself to even doubt you. Thank you Hermione, for being my best friend.”

Just like last night, Harry’s tears blurred his vision. Taking his hand away from her for a moment, he brushed his tears away. Hermione was also crying. Harry then brushed away her tears before hugging her tightly. In all the years they’ve been friends, it had always been Hermione who initiated hugs between them. To Harry’s surprise, it did not feel as awkward as he thought it would be. It felt good as Hermione hugged him back, wrapping her arms around his neck just as Harry had his hands around her waist. After and eternity or so, coincidentally both let out a yawn and chuckling softly, they slowly let go of each other. Harry stood and helped Hermione up from the couch.

“Good night Harry!” Hermione said as she headed towards the staircase to the girls’ dorm. As she was about to step up, she heard Harry calling her.

“Hey Hermione, you left this!” Harry called out, holding up her ‘New Theory of Numerology’, a grin on his face!

As Harry walked towards her, he noticed a faint blush on her cheeks! He handed her the book, his fingers brushing against her, and at that moment he felt a shiver run down his spine! His stomach was doing flip-flops!

With his heart beating furiously, Harry moved closer towards Hermione, his hands were slightly trembling and his palms were sweaty. Standing a foot away from her, he stopped and looked into her eyes, swallowing a lump in his throat. Taking a deep breath, leaning down and closing the gap between them, Harry did something he had never done before, he kissed her on her lips!

The moment their lips touched, Harry felt a jolt shoot through his body, warming him from head to toes! ‘Maybe this is what it feels when you get electrocuted! I hope my messy hair is not standing on ends!’ He thought to himself and smiled inwardly. As Harry felt Hermione return the kiss, he became bolder. He deepened the kiss. His hands automatically wound around her waist, pulling her closer to him. Hermione’s hands were around his neck, one holding her book and the other in his messy hair! If he felt electrocuted when their lips touched, he was practically on fire now, it would not be a surprise if he had smoke coming out of his ears!

Hours, minutes or seconds later, it felt real long, both parted, breathless and stared at each other in disbelief! Harry could still feel his lips tingling and his cheeks warm. They both let go of each other reluctantly. He must be blushing furiously! Fortunately for him, Hermione was not faring any better, her face was flushed! To Harry she looked lovely! With a shy smile and a soft whisper, Hermione said goodnight, stood on tiptoe and gave him a peck on his lips. She then turned back towards the staircase. Before stepping up, she turned back and said shyly, “You really are not a bad kisser, Harry!”

Harry stood rooted to the ground in a daze, watching Hermione run up the stairs, a goofy smile on his face! Was he dreaming? But he could not be, as he could still feel the tingling on his lips from when they kissed! Believe it or not, he had kissed Hermione, his best friend! Hermione was the first girl who became his best friend, and now she was the first girl he kissed! Last year it was Cho who kissed him. He froze, not knowing what do. Perhaps that was why Cho cried even more when she pulled away from him! Kissing Hermione felt wonderful thou, it was even better than catching a snitch. And surprisingly he seemed to know what to do, it seemed so natural, even though that was the first time they kissed! And it felt GREAT! And best of all, the look on Hermione’s mirrored his very thought and feeling!

Hermione….. Harry felt his heart expand at the mere thought of her! He knew she did not think herself as beautiful as Cho, nor as fashionable as Lavender or Parvati, but to him, she is so much more than all that. She is more than he could ever wish for!

Hermione’s beauty radiates from her kindness and compassion towards everything around her, humans (she even felt sorry for Malfoy!), animals and house-elves alike! Her beauty stems from the friendship she extends towards others, she is a great friend (he can vouch for that)! Her beauty sparkles from her bravery in times of danger, despite of her own fear! And her beauty shines through her loyalty to her friends, even if it goes against her own better judgement!

That is the beautiful Hermione in Harry’s eyes, his mind, and in his heart!

And this beauty had captured and imprisoned his heart!

And he believes that she will be the brightest the light, along with others that would help him through his darkness as he fulfils his destiny!

And with her as a constant by his side, he would do everything in his power to vanquish the greatest evil once and for all.

And hopefully, his desire to have a family would finally be realised!

Harry Potter is truly one lucky person, with loving parents who had sacrificed themselves for him, wonderful friends who would die for him, the Weasley family who treated him as their own and even now, the thought of staying with the Dursleys till he is of age does not seem as dreadful as it used to be! He has so much to look forward to!

Harry felt a surge of happiness now that he had a clear insight into his future, and it was all thanks to the kiss with Hermione. Kissing Hermione had released a floodgate of emotions, strength and confidence in him! Harry grinned broadly as he walked up the stairs to his room. I am so happy, for I am Harry Potter, The Boy-Who-Kissed! WOW!

As Harry lay down in bed, the image of the kiss kept replaying in his mind, slowly lulling him to sleep, a smile on his face! Harry slept very well that night, for once void of horrible nightmares, but instead replaced by a very pleasant dream, one that featured Hermione Granger, and…… well….. lots and lots of kissing!

J

*****