Finding the Right Place

tanama

Rating: NC17
Genres: Drama, Romance
Relationships: Harry & Hermione
Book: Harry & Hermione, Books 1 - 5
Published: 17/05/2005
Last Updated: 09/05/2006
Status: in_progress

Sometimes love finds us in the all the wrong places. We just have to wait until we find the right one. This is a story of missed opportunities, misunderstandings, and rectifications. (Story is better than the summary. I swear.)

Chapters

1. Prologue - It Starts...

2. Time Passes Through a Series of Letters

3. Welcome Home Harry

4. A Welcome Home Indeed

5. Chapter 4 - An Interesting Meeting

6. Changes, Friends or Something More

7. ******AUTHOR'S NOTE******

1. Prologue - It Starts...

Finding the Right Place…

Disclaimer: None of these phenomenal characters belong to me. They are the wonderful brain children of the amazing JK Rowling.

Rating: R/NC-17 (some chapters)

Pairing: H/Hr (eventually)

Summary: Sometimes love finds us in the all the wrong places. We just have to wait until it finds the right one.

Author’s Note: Please forgive any errors you may encounter. This story is unbeta-ed and started out as a freewrite exercise. I’ll try and post the next chapter by tomorrow evening. (New York City time)

PROLOGUE

They were sitting in the head girl’s bedroom as she bustled around her room picking up various knickknacks and looking at each article with disdain as she pondered just when she had managed to accumulate so many things.

“Haven’t you ever wondered?” he asked softly, his voice barely higher than that of a whisper, as he picked at a loose thread on his shirt.

“Of course I have, Harry,” she said, giving a dismissive wave of her hand, while rearranging some articles in her trunk, “It’s perfectly natural when people of the opposite sex have been friends as long as we have.”

“Why didn’t you ever pursue it?” he asked suddenly.

She turned from her packing fully prepared to give him a grin and playful response but stopped when she saw the serious look upon his face. A wave of unease washed over her and she realized he had never quite looked at her that way before.

“Well,” she replied slowly, taking her time and choosing her words carefully, “I suppose for the same reasons you never did, Harry.”

“What if I wanted to?” he asked, effectively cutting off the rest of her explanation. He stood up then and slowly raised his hand so he could gently caress her cheek with his thumb.

She found herself leaning into his touch against her own volition. “Harry,” she said, looking up into his eyes she realized for just how much he towered over her in height and for the very first time felt small beside him, “I…”

He placed his index finger over her lips and spoke in the gentlest tone she had ever heard him use. “I care for you a great deal, Hermione, and you’re constantly on my mind. Your pretty smile. The bossy tone you use when you’re annoyed and not getting your way. The tiny little scar you have just under your chin that you got during one of Hagrid’s more bracing lessons. I couldn’t have us go on our way tomorrow without knowing how you feel.”

He leaned forward then and placed a sweet kiss upon her lips despite the look of alarm in her eyes. His hands lightly framed her face and her eyes were open wide in surprise as he moved his lips over hers ever so slightly. It took her a moment to overcome the shock and finally respond. She finally did, carefully and tenderly removing his hands from her face and stepping back from him.

She tried to ignore the hurt look upon his face and spoke past the lump that was quickly forming in her throat. “Harry, I do love you,” she whispered, tears beginning to pool in her luminous eyes, “But not in the way you want me to. I would never want to risk our friendship, which I do treasure above all else, on something that may not work out in the end.”

His eyes were downcast and he refused to meet her gaze. She tried to take his hand but he pulled away from her. “I’m so sorry, Harry. Please tell me this won’t change things between us…” He finally met her eyes and there was an unmistakable shine to them.

He gave her a half-hearted smile before he spoke, “Never that. You’ve been the one constant in my life, Hermione. It just wouldn’t do to not have you as my best friend anymore.”

She moved to hug him but hesitated leaving her standing there awkwardly with her arms half extended. He sighed and pulled her into a tight embrace mercifully ending her self-conscious moment. “Tomorrow can we pretend this whole thing never happened?” he asked.

“Okay, Harry,” she replied giving him a worried half-hearted smile, “Consider it forgotten.”

He cleared his throat and in a decisively male moment moved to quickly wipe his eyes before extricating himself from the vice-like grip she had upon his waist. “I’ll just be going. You know, lots of last minute packing to do before the morning. The party tonight really set me back,” he stammered, completely disregarding the fact she had helped him meticulously pack all of his belongings just an hour before. “See you in the morning, Hermione.”

He hadn’t even waited from her reply. She watched his hastily retreating footsteps and felt that something in their friendship had inexplicably shifted. For the very first time in seven years of friendship she came to the realization that she had absolutely no idea what Harry was thinking or feeling at the present, and that frightened her.

She sat on the edge of her bed absentmindedly pushing Crookshanks to the floor. She was folding and unfolding the same sweater. It was actually one of the many sweaters she had commandeered from Harry over the years. She held it up to her face and inhaled deeply. Traces of his scent still lingered, a mixture she had decided was a combination of chocolate frogs, sunshine, and the aftershave she had gotten him a few months ago. She had accidentally walked in on him while he was shaving at the Burrow over the Christmas holiday. She had found it immensely entertaining and amusing, partially amazed that she had not realized he had been shaving for quite some time.

She thought about how he acted around her and was angry with herself for not noticing sooner. She should have realized long ago, her of all people… He carried her books from class to class often enough that Ron would tease him by saying the Dark Lord wouldn’t stand a chance against “Harry Potter, The Bookworm’s Bodybuilder”. It was a joke neither Harry nor Hermione found very funny but would cause Ron to laugh to the point of tears every time he said it, which was quite often indeed.

Harry sat in the library with her for hours on end with minimal complaint. Waking early he always had a plate of her favorite breakfast foods ready for her in the morning, despite being the world’s worst morning person. The more she thought on it the more endless her list of sweet things she realized Harry did for her everyday. Ron never did any of these things but she had simply rationalized that it was because he was, well, Ron.

She traced her lips with her fingertips as she thought of Harry’s kiss. His lips had been so warm and impossibly soft; his touch so endearingly shy and tender. It was almost enough to make her want to find him and tell him she hadn’t meant a word of what she just told him. Almost.

I made the right decision, she thought trying to reassure herself, we both leave tomorrow and who knows when we’ll see one another again. Besides, if he hadn’t kissed me I would never have wondered if I felt something deeper towards him than friendship.

That’s not true, her mind replied, you just weren’t enough of a Gryffindor to find out. With a sigh she stood and placed her last sweater in her trunk. She picked up the only remaining article on her desk and took a long look at the framed photo. This particular picture never failed to bring a smile to her face. In it, the seventh year trio stood outside Hagrid’s hut on a snowy afternoon; Ron was heaving snowballs while she was using Harry as a human shield. She remembered he teasing begged her to be released from her diabolical clutches. She placed the photo in her trunk and muttered a locking charm, thus ending her seven year Hogwarts adventure.

In another part of the castle…

Bloody idiot! His mind shouted at him as he walked toward the common room, how could you do that right before you’re both leaving? You leave for Auror training tomorrow and you won’t be seeing her for at least six months; and that’s only if she gets a holiday from her own Healer training. You should have known she wouldn’t want things to change.

He was hardly paying any heed to where he was walking which was very apparent by the rather loud, “OW! Mate! Watch where you’re going!”

He had barreled full speed into a very annoyed Weasley, successfully knocking all of his belongings from his trunk. “Geez, Harry! The train doesn’t leave until tomorrow! Where’s the fire?” he asked, not having noticed Harry’s pitiful expression as he began to pick up his things.

“I’m sorry, Ron,” he said, “I wasn’t paying attention.”

“You don’t say?” he replied sarcastically, finally looking up and really seeing his friend. “Bloody hell, Harry. You look downright pitiful. What’s the matter, mate? You’re usually floating on air after visiting Hermione, loverboy.”

At the mention of her name Harry looked even more disheartened. “You finally told her?” he asked his friend, feeling both proud of him and sad for him at the same time.

Harry merely nodded and sighed.

“Well, mate, why don’t we break out the Firewhiskey and celebrate. It’s a two for one deal: we’ve finally graduated Hogwarts and you’ve managed to evade that pesky Dark Lord for the second consecutive year.”

“Okay, Ron,” he said letting himself be led toward Gryffindor Tower.

And thus is how Harry and Ron ended their seven year Hogwarts adventure…

2. Time Passes Through a Series of Letters

Finding the Right Place…Chapter 1

Disclaimer: None of these phenomenal characters belong to me. They are the wonderful brain children of the amazing JK Rowling.

Rating: R/NC-17 (some chapters)

Pairing: H/Hr (eventually)

Summary: Sometimes love finds us in the all the wrong places. We just have to wait until it finds the right one.

Author’s Note: Please forgive the amazing long wait for this chapter. I decided to go about telling the story in an entirely different way, and I just didn’t know how to do it…

Dear Harry,

This vacation with my parents is just what I needed; a beautiful beach and a good book is just what the healer ordered. This place is marred only by the fact that I already miss you and Ron dreadfully. It’s quite a bit distressing not to know how you are faring in training or what trouble Ron has gotten into with his brothers, especially after knowing your whereabouts just about everyday for the past seven years. My parents keep asking why I’m so distracted. I usually respond by saying ‘I wonder if the boys have wandered into any Devil’s Snare,’ knowing full well they don’t quite understand the reference.

Putting into words just how hard it was to say goodbye to you on the platform is impossible. Tonks told me how hard Auror training is on its new recruits and, even though I desperately would love to be a healer, I wish I was going with you. But Dumbledore was right; training with real Aurors will help prepare you for whatever Voldemort throws at you next. I look forward (hopefully) to be seeing you at your new home over holiday. I’m sure that by then we will have loads of stories to tell one another.

My parents were quite upset when I told them I would only be home for a month before leaving for Excelsior’s Healer program. Just imagine if I had had to leave directly from Hogwarts like you did. I really wish they understood more about our world…

The thought of starting a new year of classes without you, and Ron of course, is a little daunting. I think despite all the growing up we did over the past few years we are still fundamentally the same. I’m still that same bushy-haired know-it-all that’s afraid she’ll never have any friends, just as much as Ron is still a red-headed hothead, and you still stare in awe at quidditch matches. (By Merlin, I hope I don’t have to be attacked by a troll to make friends at Excelsior.)

I anxiously await your first of many letters. (THERE HAD BETTER BE MANY LETTERS!)

Wishing you the best,

Hermione

Dear Ron,

I hope Fred and George haven’t coerced you into too much trouble by the time my letter reaches you. The island I’m staying on is quite lovely, save for the fact that I can’t enjoy the scenery with two best friends. I hope everything is well with you, but then I know I have Ginny to keep you in line in my absence.

I worry about you and Harry both but at least you have the rest of the Weasley brood with you. Harry is the first of us to be off on his own and knowing that it’s into the Auror program makes it even harder. I know that the training is necessary because of the war but I can’t help but wonder if Harry would have chosen this path on his own. If you hear from him please let me know how he’s doing. I know he’ll be completely honestly with you and won’t censor any difficulties he may be having like he would do with me, especially now. Write please.

Your friend,

Hermione

Hermione,

Sorry to say, but from what Dad has told me, we won’t be hearing from our dear Harry for at least a month. New Auror recruits are totally sequestered (I’m finally using that word of the day calendar gave me for Christmas). There is absolutely no contact with the outside world for at least the first few weeks. That’s what I call “constant vigilance”. Not to worry, I’m sure our boy is doing smashingly.

And what’s with that comment about him censoring himself with you? Just because he planted one on you before we left doesn’t change seven years of friendship. Don’t be so shocked. There isn’t much a man won’t share with his mate after a bottle of firewhiskey. I’m sure the next time you see each other everything will be right as rain. Emotional range of a teaspoon eh?

In other news I’ve been holding down the fort as Fred and George have been exhaustively researching their next line of products. I think even Mum is impressed. I do have to report that I have unwittingly the subject of much of their research. Mum was NOT impressed with my temporary tail…

By the way, your new owl is wicked. Bit of a smug little guy though isn’t he? It looks almost as if he’s rolling his eyes at Pig. Anyhow, I’ve got to go. I promised the twins I’d do inventory.

Your friend,

Ron

P.S. Try not to worry too much. I’m sure he’s fine.

Dear Ron,

I’m so glad Harry told you what happened. I really wanted to ask your advice but wasn’t sure if I should. Do you really think things will be alright between us? I don’t think I could stand awkward pauses and uncomfortable silences with Harry.

The kiss itself was a bit strange. He surprised me so badly he must have felt sure he was kissing the equivalent of a dead fish. It was a shock to see him as a man and not that skinny little boy I’ve known since I was eleven. I hope you’re right Ron, I don’t think I could stand it if you weren’t. In any case, I should know as soon as he writes, right?

I can’t believe I leave for Excelsior within the week. I’m just about shaking with anticipation of all the interesting things I’m going to learn. I’m so glad Dumbledore was about to make arrangements for me to go back and forth between Excelsior and Harry’s new place. It’s going to be strange being there again without Snuffles or Harry but at least I’ll be able to stay informed as to what Fawkes’ group is working on. I assume you and the rest of your family will be frequent guests as well. If all goes according to plan I’ll be seeing you soon.

Best,

Hermione

P.S. What this about getting pissed with Harry over a BOTTLE of firewhiskey? Honestly!

Dear Hermione,

Be grateful you don’t have any nosy brothers; having a personal life is almost impossible. Neville was finally able to convince his Gran to come and visit the Burrow and Fred and/or George managed to put something in his pumpkin juice. Every time poor Neville so much as looked in my direction he started to cluck like a chicken. Someone has got to teach those boys a lesson and soon!

Ron said you’d be around in the next couple of days. There is so much I’d like to tell you but I wouldn’t put it past the twins to read my mail. I guess I’ll just have to tell you in person.

I almost forgot! Dad ran into Tonks at the Ministry. She told him Harry’s at the top of his class! Can you believe it? Guess after seven years you finally managed to rub off on him, pity it wasn’t in more than one way. (wink) All that training must have him looking all types of gorgeous; just don’t tell Neville I said so.

See you in a couple of days!

Your friend,

Ginny

Hey Mate!

Training is exhausting! You wouldn’t believe some of the things we’ve had to do. It almost makes 4th year look like a picnic. I wish I could tell you more but they’ve given us special parchment to use for letters home. They’ll incinerate if we divulge too much information.

My partner is full of piss and vinegar. Thomas makes a dementor look like a kitten. No mercy that one has; if nothing else at least Thomas keeps me on my toes. All of this training has kept my mind off of that mess I made with Hermione. It was a mistake to make the first move. She’s never been one to shy away from speaking her mind. I should have taken that as a sign.

Sorry to be brief but I only have another few minutes and I promised to write Hermione the moment I got a chance.

Say hello to everyone for me,

Harry

Dear Hermione,

You would be so proud of me. I managed to put that old planner to use and am at the top of most of my classes: both practical application and theoretical. It doesn’t hurt that my partner Thomas is as fanatical as you are with exams. Don’t start pouting, you know it’s true.

I hear Fawkes’ group is doing well and I’m hoping to be able to check in with them by holiday. It’s been so quiet almost like the calm before a storm. Dumbledore said my confrontation with Mr. Riddle last year at the ball severely drained his energy, and his followers must be having a hard time regrouping. I’ll feel much better after I can speak with everyone. Dumbledore wasn’t joking when he said I’d have little to no contact with anyone outside my training group. I sometimes worry I’ll get home and everything will be different.

I know you are certainly enjoying your healer program as Tonks tells me you are rarely seen without some sort of text in your hand. For Merlin’s sake promise me you’ll have some non-scholastic fun.

Sorry but I’ve got to go as I only have another minute or so to write this. I may not be able to write for sometime.

I miss you,

Harry

Dear Ron,

I finally heard from Harry and he says he’s at the top of his classes. I’m so proud of him. I can only imagine how hard he must be working. It sounds like his partner is really pushing him. Did you receive a letter as well?

It looks as though my time at Excelsior isn’t going to be as lonely as I thought. I seem to have made a couple of good friends and have even asked to dinner by a Mr. Ian Marshall, a fairly soft-spoken fellow and just about one of the smartest people I’ve ever met. I’ll tell you all about it next owl.

Best,

Hermione

Hermione,

Yes, I did hear from Mr. Potter and I was right. He is doing smashingly. Now what’s this about dating some randy sod neither Harry nor I have met? You know any bloke you date has to pass the Wicked Weasley Examination, or have we forgotten the Ernie Fiasco of last year? I expect a full report omitting any portions which will make my reaction imitate the “slug incident”. (There had better be none; it’s your first date with the git for Merlin’s sake.)

Ron

Ps I had dinner with Luna yesterday and she told me to ask you about the possible healing properties of Tinkerton toenails.

Dear Harry,

I’m so pleased that you’re doing so well. I told you everything would be fine. I don’t know this Thomas fellow but I like him already. Tell him I said to keep up the good work. Life at Excelsior is going exceptionally well though I do confess I do find my commitments to my studies and Fawkes’ group a bit tiresome. I do them both happily however; anything I can do to help you in the end is well worth the effort.

Everything is well at home. Luna and Ron seem to be getting along quite well, and surprisingly enough Molly loves her. Ginny and Neville are still together and, much to everyone’s shock, Neville’s Gran invites her for tea every weekend.

Please continue the great work with your training and it’ll all be over before you know it. Try not to worry too much about home and what’s going on, I’m sure things will be the same as always. I have a fairly important exam tomorrow in potions but I really wanted to write you. You’re in my thoughts, Harry.

With love,

Hermione

Dear Hermione,

I have absolutely had it with my partner! Because of Thomas my entire class was lost in the woods for 17 hours! I can’t believe the two of us had to huddle together for warmth; what a compromising position we must have been in when they found us in the morning. What wouldn’t I have given for butterbeer and a slice of warm pumpkin pie right then?

Well, I’m afraid I have some really good news and some really bad news. The good news is that Thomas and I have been placed in the accelerated program, meaning we finish basic training in six months and start our field placement training within the year. The bad news is that this will be the last letter you will be receiving from me for six months and I will be essentially unreachable. We are to focus solely on training.

Dumbledore is the only one who can contact me in case of emergency. As much as I wished things would have happened differently I have to admit that you were right. Being away from you is difficult enough; if our relationship had changed I can’t even imagine what I would be feeling right now. Promise me that you’ll take care of yourself and make sure Ron doesn’t get into to much trouble.

With all that I am,

Harry

Author’s Note 2: I realize that this chapter may seem a bit rushed but I didn’t want Harry to all of a sudden be gone for a year. I wanted to show why he was gone and hints of what is going on back at home. Rest assured the next chapter will be written in normal prose and will have everyone reunited with some surprising changes. (or perhaps maybe not so surprising) Tons of angst, fluff, and action to follow. I promise.

3. Welcome Home Harry

Chapter 2 – Welcome Home Harry

Disclaimer: None of these phenomenal characters belong to me. They are the wonderful brain children of the amazing JK Rowling.

Rating: R/NC-17 (some chapters)

Pairing: H/Hr (eventually)

Summary: Sometimes love finds us in the all the wrong places. We just have to wait until it finds the right one.

Author’s Note: For those of you that remember this story, thanks for sticking with it. Life has a funny way of distracting you; sorry I’ve been away for awhile. I hope you enjoy the chapter. Also, please forgive me as this story is un-betaed and I’m quite sure it’s riddled with errors.

A “Welcome Home Harry” banner was hung above the mantle of the Burrow’s fireplace. In the banner a miniature, eleven year old, Harry chases a golden snitch while weaving through the lettering, only to have it burst into confetti upon its capture.

A small group of people, mostly all Weasleys, bustled around the house in merriment as they awaited the guest of honor, none looking more anxious than a pair standing in front of the hearth chatting animatedly.

“I can’t believe he’s going to be here any moment,” a large smile gracing her face. She moved the banner slightly left and right trying to center it perfectly in what her friend’s new to be her typical fashion.

“It’s a shame, really,” replied the redhead, “It’s been so much more peaceful without that smarmy git running around causing trouble.”

“Ron!” she exclaimed, “How can you…” She paused as she noticed her friend casting glances over her shoulder. She followed his gaze and turned around, suddenly finding herself face to face with a handsome green eyed man.

Before she knew what was happening she found herself totally engulfed in a strong embrace, spun around as a familiar baritone laugh filled the air.

“By Merlin! I’ve missed you!” he exclaimed, looking down at her, their eyes meeting for the first time in more than a year. As soon as she saw those deep pools of emerald she couldn’t help the big smile that washed over her face.

“Harry!” she shouted, wrapping her arms around him and squeezing him in one of her patented Hermione Granger hugs, “I’ve missed you so much!”

She allowed herself to burrow into his embrace and snuggle into him for the briefest moment. It was definitely Harry and he was finally home. He smelled just like she remembered, sweet, almost citrusy with the vaguest hint of aftershave.

An indiscrete cough caused them to separate and a jovial laugh spoke, “Harry, I do believe our nine years of friendship warrants at the very least a friendly handshake.” Harry chuckled as he turned to face his red-headed friend.

“You asked for it mate!” he said as he grabbed his face and gave him a smacking and exaggerated kiss on the cheek. The others, alerted to Harry’s presence, laughed at the scene before them and rushed forward to welcome home the prodigal son.

“Careful Harry,” said George as he gave Harry a quick hug.

“Luna is the jealous type.” Fred continued, giving Harry a little salute in greeting.

Harry heard a dreamy voice behind him, “I don’t know, Ronald, Harry is looking quite dishy. I would find that scenario quite…intriguing.”

Ron and Hermione exchanged furtive glances as Harry all at once burst into uproarious laughter and drew Luna into a great big hug. “It’s great to see you, Luna. You haven’t changed a bit! Where is the rest of the Weasley brood?”

“Oh, um, they should be along later, Harry, this evening more than likely, they’re arranging for a little surprise,” Hermione said, gracing him with a little smile.

A loud pop interrupted their reunion as a slightly winded Nymphodora Tonks managed to apparate directly onto a small coffee table surreptitiously moved out of the way into the corner for her benefit.

“Bloody hell!” she shouted, shooting death rays at Harry with her eyes as he laughed, “First you leave me to deal with Moody’s pixie problem and now you’re just going to leave me sitting in what I can only assume used to be a perfectly lovely little sideboard table!”

“Actually, it was a coffee table,” interrupted Hermione with a smile, feeling a levity she hadn’t felt in so very long as she laughed along with her friends.

Tonks could no longer hide her grin as she joined the others. Harry helped her up as he waved his hand over the demolished little table, fixing it right up.

“Excuse us, Harry, George and I have to go into the backyard and finish our own little surprise for you,” said Fred, giving his twin a little wink as they rushed out the back door.”

“Should I be concerned,” asked Harry, looking from some type of reassurance from his best friends.

“Yes,” replied Ron, Hermione, Luna, and Tonks in unison.

“Those two have been plotting something for the past couple of months. It wouldn’t surprise me if they had a giant Furigral waiting for you. They’re becoming quite popular gifts, I hear,” said Luna as she adjusted the turnip hanging off of her belt.

“What exactly is a” began Harry, but seeing a decisive shake of the head from Hermione covered his question in a cough.

“I simply must ask, Harry. What’s this about Moody having a problem with pixies?” Luna asked, “Doesn’t he know that just a smidgeon of peppermint will stop the pixies in their tracks?”

“Oh, do allow me to explain, Potter,” began Tonks, spying the mischievous little twinkle in his eye, “Potter here, told his partner, Chris Thomas, a certain story involving Gilderoy Lockhart and some pixies. In their infinite wisdom they decided to release some freshly caught pixies into Moody’s office. Potter here managed to get away but Thomas and I were forced to stay and take care of the pixie roundup.”

Ron’s roar of laughter nearly drowned out Hermione’s next question.

“Harry! You left your partner and Tonks to clean up a mess you helped to make?” asked a slightly off put Hermione, “What happened to no Auror left behind?”

He could tell she was teasing him, not by the grin she was barely keeping from her lips, but by the sparkle in her eyes, and the fact her eyebrows weren’t furrowed in disdain.

“With Thomas and I, it’s every Auror for themselves. Besides, Chris once forced me to go to roll call in just a pair of boxers.”

Ron laughed and opened his mouth to speak but was shushed by Harry holding up his hand. “I’m sorry, Ron. I’m afraid some things will just have to remain a mystery or at the very least coerced after a few pints on a pub crawl.”

Ron conceded his defeat and asked Harry if he’d like to see his new regulation Quidditch racing broom. Before Tonks or Hermione could say snitch, the two boys were walking away, lost in a world of Quidditch and team stats.

“I can barely wait to meet Harry’s partner,” said Hermione, “Anyone that can keep Harry on his toes like that is someone I have to meet. He sounds like a real laugh.”

“He?” asked Tonks. A loud crack broke through the laughter of the little party and a tall blonde woman appeared next to a slightly hesitant Harry, who immediately began yelling at him about “tiny little buggers.”

“Who the bloody hell is that?” Hermione asked, clearly baffled as to who could have apparated into the Weasley’s home uninvited, her hand automatically reaching for her wand.

“I’d say that’s Chris Thomas,” replied Luna with an amused look.

“Oh,” was all Hermione could manage as she found herself hesitating to holster her wand.

Author’s Note the Second : Sorry to be brief, but this is only half the chapter. The remainder is to be posted at some point today or tomorrow. (I still need to proof it as I have no beta.)

4. A Welcome Home Indeed

Chapter 3 – A Welcome Home Indeed

Disclaimer: None of these phenomenal characters belong to me. They are the wonderful brain children of the amazing JK Rowling.

Rating: R/NC-17 (some chapters)

Pairing: H/Hr (eventually)

Summary: Sometimes love finds us in the all the wrong places. We just have to wait until it finds the right one.

Author’s Note: This is a continuation of the last chapter. This chapter features a little fluffiness and some jealousy. Please read and review, after all, it’s the holidays. Poll question: What would you like to see happen in the next chapter?

This is Harry’s partner!?! thought Hermione wildly. That lying sack of … Well, he never said it was a man…But he never said it wasn’t…That’s lying by default isn’t it?

Hermione watched Chris rip into Harry, only catching phrases containing words like “revenge” and “bloody murder.” She watched as Harry allowed her to rant and rave, even as Fred and George emerged from the backyard wondering who the beautiful woman was yelling at Harry. The blue eyed blond woman.

Tonks gave Hermione a little wink before walking over to the irate Auror apprentice. “Thomas, stand down. You know damn well that you’d do the same to Potter if given the chance.”

The woman grumbled her acceptance, giving Harry one more dirty look before turning to Ron and holding out her hand. “Since my partner here doesn’t have any manners; I’m Chris Thomas.” She looked Ron up and down while they shook hands. “I see Hogwarts is where all the good looking wizards are. Shame Potter here doesn’t have the personality to match his looks.”

Ron blushed crimson before replying “I, um, Luna is, um, I’m Ron Weasley,” he finally stammered out, “I didn’t think Harry’s partner was, well, a girl.”

“What’s the matter, Harry?” she asked him sweetly, “Didn’t want to tip anyone off to our illicit affair? I’m sure Tonks here won’t report back to our superiors. Will you, Tonks?”

Tonks laughed at poor Harry’s fish out of water expression before he hastily responded to Chris. “Thomas! Enough teasing you have to meet everyone else. That there is Fred and George or as they liked to be called ‘the terrible twosome’.”

Fred and George playfully shoved each other trying to be the first to greet Chris, “How do you do? I’m Fred.”

“No you’re not, I am,” replied the real Fred, “That’s George…I think.”

“Very funny guys,” said Harry, “Chris, don’t bother trying to figure it out; they’re likely to swap clothing to throw you off later.” Everyone laughed and the twins gave each other smirks which certainly confirmed Harry’s suspicions.

Harry’s eyes cut across the room until they landed on the hesitant Hermione. “Hey Hermione! Luna! Come on over here; I’d like you to meet someone.” Taking a deep breath Hermione made her way over to crowd relaxing a bit as Harry casually threw his arm over her shoulder. Luna meandered along behind her.

“I’d like you to meet my good friend, partner, and all around pain in the arse, Chris Thomas,” said Harry cordially, causing Tonks to smile at his introduction, “Chris, this is one of my best friends, Hermione Granger. And that there is Luna Lovegood.”

Chris held out her perfectly manicured hand and gave Hermione’s hand a firm shake. “It’s nice to finally meet you, Hermione. I’ve heard so much about you.” She let her eyes wander down Hermione giving her an appraising look before turning to Luna. “It’s nice to meet you as well, Luna. You’re the handsome Weasley’s girlfriend aren’t you?”

“Hey!” exclaimed Fred and George before Luna could greet the newest addition to the party.

“Handsome Weasley!?!” asked Fred in mild shock.

“Double the pleasure, double the fun.” George countered, wagging his eyebrows suggestively.

Ignoring the twins Luna offered her hand in greeting, “Lovely to meet you; you’re right, Ron is the handsome Weasley.”

Introductions having been made, in what was the typical young Weasley fashion music was played and the firewhiskey bottles were opened. Fred and George stood whispering in a corner with Luna, no doubt trying to entrance her to be part of their scheming. Harry and Chris sat at a small table goading one another into drinking more and more, while the rest watched in an almost incredulous way.

“Five galleons says she drinks him under the table,” said an amused Ron as he watched Harry wobble in his seat. Chris did a little victory dance as Harry had a bit of trouble refilling their glasses.

“That’s a fool’s bet, Hermione, don’t take it,” replied Tonks, “By Merlin, Chris has a hollow leg! They went on quite a few pub crawls together and Chris usually had to apparate them home. You should have seen those two in the academy, practically joined at the hip.”

“I’ll bet they were,” Ron said, giving Chris the once over, “He’d be a fool not to, uh, nevermind. I forgot I wasn’t speaking with Fred and George for a moment there.” Tonks and Hermione were looking at him with disapproval written all over their faces.

“I’m going to send a note to Molly and Arthur to recommend their surprise wait until morning. I don’t think Harry is in the condition to fully appreciate it tonight.” That being said, Tonks rose and left the room presumable in search of the Weasley’s resident barn owl.

“I saw Moody talking to Griphook at the Leaky Cauldron today. Have you ever known goblins to venture there?” Ron asked of Hermione, seemingly trying to test the waters after his obvious previous blunder.

“Do you think they’re lovers?” Hermione asked, her face whipping around to look at Ron.

“Mad Eye and Griphook!?! Ew!” exclaimed Ron while his face contorted in disgust.

“No Ron,” said an exasperated Hermione, “Harry and his partner.” She looked over at the two of them and saw that they did indeed have what seemed to be a strong familiarity between them. No subject was taboo and they had been laughing and/or arguing the entire time they had been speaking.

Ron, fully prepared to make a lecherous remark, replied, “I don’t know Hermione. If they are, he’s never mentioned it to me. If you ask me, it’s about time the Boy Who Lived became a man; he’s mental waiting so long, especially with all those witches throwing themselves at his feet.”

“He’s never, what I mean to say is, Harry never…” Hermione gave a frustrated sigh, “Forget it.”

Ron looked at her a bit perplexed and decided to grant her a reprieve, “No, well, not before he left anyway. I can’t exactly say that for sure anymore.”

They both looked over at the drunken duo. Chris had her head leaning on Harry’s shoulder as he was belting off some muggle song that Ron had never heard of. His eyes caught Hermione’s and he struggled to get to his feet, nearly causing Chris to fall over in the process. She gave him an angry little shove as he walked toward Ron and Hermione.

“I have to go…over there,” said Ron hastily, quickly vacating his seat and scurrying over to Luna and the twins.

“Hermione,” Harry slurred, plopping himself down on the seat next to her, “I’ve missed you so much while I was gone.” He put his arm around her shoulders and pulled her a little closer to him.

“I miss you too,” she said softly, leaning into ever so slightly.

She looked up at him and their eyes locked. They were still as green as ever, though currently darker than she had ever seen them.

“There’s so much I have to tell you,” he whispered, leaning closer to her.
He pulled her into a slightly uncomfortable hug and she found herself pulled flush against him. She chanced a glance over his shoulders and spied Chris shooting daggers at them with her eyes, quickly looking away when her eyes met Hermione’s.

He loosened his embrace and pulled away from her slightly. “Hermione…” He spoke her name softly. She realized he was ever so slowly bringing his lips nearer to hers giving her the opportunity to back away if she wanted to.

“Oy! Hermione! Your boyfriend is in the floo for you!” shouted George from across the room.

Harry dropped his arms from around her like she burned him. “Boyfriend?” he asked.

Author’s note 2: Reviewing is good for the writer’s soul….I’d love to hear some feedback.

5. Chapter 4 - An Interesting Meeting

Chapter 4 – An Interesting Meeting

Disclaimer: None of these phenomenal characters belong to me. They are the wonderful brain children of the amazing JK Rowling.

Rating: R/NC-17 (some chapters)

Pairing: H/Hr (eventually)

Summary: Sometimes love finds us in the all the wrong places. We just have to wait until it finds the right one.

Author’s Note: Ok, so, we’re still at the same party. (This is starting to feel like a general hospital episode…) Anyhow, sorry for the delay but real life has a tendency to be somewhat chaotic for me. Hope you enjoy this next installment and I look forward to hearing your reactions. Feedback is like crack to me. ::shudders:: I need a fix!

By the way, the chapter was not beta read, so any mistakes you find are solely my own.

From the last chapter:

He pulled her into a slightly uncomfortable hug and she found herself pulled flush against him. She chanced a glance over his shoulders and spied Chris shooting daggers at them with her eyes, quickly looking away when her eyes met Hermione’s.

He loosened his embrace and pulled away from her slightly. “Hermione…” He spoke her name softly. She realized he was ever so slowly bringing his lips nearer to hers giving her the opportunity to back away if she wanted to.

“Oy! Hermione! Your boyfriend is in the floo for you!” shouted George from across the room.

Harry dropped his arms from around her like she burned him. “Boyfriend?” he asked.

“I’m sorry, Harry,” she whispered, “I thought someone would have mentioned it to you.”

“You should have mentioned it, Hermione!” he replied roughly, the alcohol slurring his speech. “Maybe it was a mistake thinking I could come back here like nothing had changed while I was gone.” He stood angrily and staggered slightly on his feet. “I thought we were better friends than that…”

“Of course we are!” she answered almost indignantly. As she stood and watched her friend swaying, she decided that perhaps now wasn’t the best time to have that particular discussion. “Ian is going to floo over any moment now; you can meet him. And, I promise tomorrow you and I will go for coffee and discuss everything about my life and yours in excruciating detail, okay?”

“Yeah, sure,” he said, giving her a hesitant half smile, which she returned warmly. He watched her turn and walk away without so much as a backward glance and knew that something major had just inexplicably changed and there was absolutely nothing he could do about it.

“Oy Harry!” shouted Ron from across the room, “Come over here and take a shot with your best mate! Chris says there’s no way you could handle another!” With a laugh and a slight stumble, Harry headed back over to where Ron was drinking with his partner.

“Potter, why didn’t you ever mention how frightfully funny your friend is?” Chris asked, howling with laughter, as Ron was doing a nearly perfect impersonation of Mad Eye Moody.

“That’s because he’s not funny usually, just a slight touched,” he said jovially, tapping his index finger to his temple and nodding his head in Ron’s direction.

“Funny, Harry,” Ron replied, his eyes flashing as he cast a panic look in the direction behind Harry.

Harry almost knew exactly what to expect but knowing and seeing proof positive were two very different things. There stood Hermione with an ear to ear smile as she walked in on the arm of a man that could only be the infamous Ian.

Ron appraised Harry’s reaction carefully before he spoke, very carefully choosing his words, “She’s happy, Harry.” Harry looked at Ron surprised he had answered the question he would never have dared to voice. “I, uh, just thought I should tell you that.”

“Thanks, Ron,” he said, wishing he hadn’t drank as much as he had, as he struggled to get to his feet. “If you both will excuse me, I’d like to go meet that fellow over there.” Before either could reply Harry was on is way.

Luna, who had just wandered over from the Weasley twin huddle, approached Ron and asked, “What did I miss?” She looked over at Chris, who had a decisively cross look upon her face, and followed the direction of her gaze. “Oh. I see Ian finally decided to show up.”

“Yup,” replied Ron.

“Do you think Harry is going to make a scene?” asked Chris, “I’m not sure I’m in the best condition to break up a fight at the moment.”

“Nope,” said Ron, “I think he’s too pissed to do much of anything but make a fool of himself right now.”

“Oh good,” said Chris dryly, picking up another shot of firewhiskey and downing it like water. “It’ll almost be like dinner theater then… except there’s no dinner and a lot of alcohol.” Ron gave her a wry smile and turned back to the spectacle he was sure was about to unfold.

Hermione swallowed her feelings of alarm as Harry approached and cleared her throat. “Ian Marshall, I’d like you to meet my best friend, Harry Potter. Harry, this is my boyfriend, Ian Marshall.”

“Nice to meet you,” said Ian, brushing his sandy hair from his forehead and holding out his hand.

“Likewise,” replied Harry, “Nice to know Hermione has been keeping herself occupied while I’ve been away.”

Even though Harry was a bit taller, Ian’s dark brown eyes met Harry’s as he replied, “Quite.”

With a nervous laugh, Hermione spoke, “The twins said everything is ready out back and we should go so they can give Harry their surprise.”

“We’d best head back there before something explodes then,” Harry said, extending his arm and indicating he would follow Ian and Hermione. They left him standing there and proceeded to the backyard.

When Chris walked over to him he was in no mood to be teased or goaded over what had just transpired. “Not now, Chris, I don’t think I can deal with anything else right now.”

“You wound me with your words, Potter,” she said putting her arm through his, “I just wanted you to be my escort outside. Let’s go. We can plot and scheme later.” With that said Chris led him out back dragging him by the arm.

The twins were standing on a small platform as everyone was gathering round and Tonks rushed into the backyard. “Did I miss it?” she asked breathlessly, “That bloody owl is impossible to use. He kept nipping at me when I was trying to tie that letter.”

“The fun is about to begin!” shouted an excited Fred.

“Welcome home Harry!” George yelled, as Fred drew a small article from his pocket and tossed it into the air. It flew into the air and popped and fizzled away.

“Umm…was that what we were waiting for?” asked Harry, “I thought…” Before he could finish his sentence a myriad of colors began to fill the sky in random patterns and small bursts of light. Flames danced in the sky in brilliant blues and reds before forming the words “Welcome Home Hairy Putter!”

The crowd burst into laughter and even Harry couldn’t contain himself as the Weasley twins began to argue with one another over who was supposed to fix the spelling in their display.

“That wasn’t exactly what we had planned, Harry, but I hoped you enjoyed our Weasley Windups,” said George, giving Fred an irritated look.

“It was great guys. Thanks,” Harry laughed, “You’re going to make a bundle if you sell these in your store.”

“Nah, that one was just for you,” Fred said, giving Harry a pat on the back.

“Harry, Ian and I need to get going. He has an exam first thing in the morning and I promised I’d help him finish preparing for it.” She looked over to where Ian was waiting impatiently for Hermione to say goodbye to everyone, surreptitiously looking at his watch every few seconds. “Coffee tomorrow right?” she asked.

“Yeah,” said Harry, still glassy eyed from the evening’s firewhiskey, “I have a feeling I’m really going to need it.”

Hermione wrapped her arms around him and gave him a tight hug. “I’m glad you’re back, Harry, I’ve really missed you.”

As she was walking away she couldn’t help but notice Chris walk over to him and say, “We should probably get going too. I hope the beds here are bigger than the one in the hotel.”

She chose to ignore that remark as she walked towards her boyfriend, just as she chose to ignore the pain that had settled in the pit of her stomach.

Authors Note 2: The next chapter is almost ready to go. It’ll finally warrant that NC-17 rating. Hope you enjoyed this chapter. We’re finally done with the party! Woohoo! Please please please please please leave some feedback.

6. Changes, Friends or Something More

Chapter 5 – Changing

Disclaimer: None of these phenomenal characters belong to me. They are the wonderful brain children of the amazing JK Rowling. No money is being made from this. (I have the pitiful bank statements to prove it.)

Rating: R/NC-17 (some chapters)

Pairing: H/Hr (eventually)

Summary: Misunderstandings, miscommunications, and jealousy lead the characters on a rollercoaster of emotion. Angst ‘o plenty.

Author’s Note: I hope you guys enjoy this chapter. After agonizing over how I wanted the scene to play out, for better or worse, this is what turned out. This chapter has been not been beta read. Sorry if its riddled with errors. Also, special thanks to sabine and prong69 for listening to the pre-posting blatter.

The room was small and sparsely furnished with only the barest of necessities. This didn’t seem to bother the only two occupants as they lie across the bed with various texts and notes thrown about. Hermione’s eyes were locked on Ian as he poured over one of his books. He certainly was handsome, a combination of his strong jaw and playful boyish expressions. His sandy blonde hair was hanging in his eyes and she fought the impulse to brush it from his forehead, knowing the distraction would only serve to annoy him.

“Really Hermione, if you were just going to sit there and stare into space you should have just stayed at the party,” stated a very agitated Ian, “You know how important this exam is and it’s in less than 5 hours.”

“You’re the one that waited until the last minute to prepare for it. I’m just trying to help,” Hermione said, her irritation at the situation growing by leaps and bounds. “And it’s quite funny that you haven’t missed a question yet that I’ve asked.”

“What are you suggesting, Hermione?” Ian asked. Hermione sat up and Ian followed suit. “Is it so wrong to ask for your help? It’s not like I asked you here for some insidious reason.”

“I’m sorry. It’s just that I was hoping that I could spend a little more time with Harry tonight. You know how terribly I’ve missed him since he’s been away.” She let out a sigh and some of the anger left Ian’s face, his eyes once more holding some of their usual warmth.

“I really do appreciate you helping me with this, Hermione. I’m sorry if I seem ungrateful; it’s just been very stressful for me lately.” He wrapped his arms around her and proceeded to place small kisses on her neck. “Besides, it looked like Harry and his partner were moments away from leaving themselves. They look good together don’t they?”

Hermione, who was just beginning to enjoy Ian’s ministrations, pulled away from his embrace abruptly, “You think there’s something going on between them do you?”

“For someone so smart you certainly are naïve sometimes aren’t you?” he asked with a grin. “It’s time your friend Harry got to have some regular fun isn’t it? I can’t imagine having gone straight from school into Auror training. That bloke is in serious need of some fun.”

He tried to pull Hermione closer but she pulled away from him. “I think it’s entirely possible for two people of the opposite sex to be friends and never have those kinds of feelings for each other. Anyhow, I don’t think Chris is his type at all.”

Ian pulled her closer once more and nuzzled her neck. He trailed his hand across her stomach and fingered the edge of her blouse only to be rebuffed once more. “Hermione, this frigid act is getting to be really old. When are you going to loosen up?”

The flasks of potions in the room began to shatter and the lights began to flicker, “How dare you talk to me like that?” She tried to control the magic radiating from her with little success, “I think it’s best if I leave now. Come see me when you pull your head out of your arse.”

She picked up her jacket and with the slightest pop she was gone.

The air was chilly as she appeared just outside the Weasley’s safety wards. I hope Harry is still awake, she thought, and I really hope he’s alone, she added as an afterthought. As she walked up the hill to the burrow the idea that Harry may not be alone stewed in her mind. Harry would never do anything…inappropriate in Mrs. Weasley’s home. She hastened her steps as she saw the Burrow growing in the distance. There were no visible lights which suggested everyone had long gone to bed.

She said a silent thank you that the Weasley’s wards recognized her as she was able to cross the threshold and enter the home without having to disturb anyone. Her mind was swimming with thoughts of the argument she had just had with Ian. It wasn’t the first time they had argued over the boundaries she had imposed upon their physical relationship. Even though they had been together for awhile she wasn’t ready to take that final step with him. Up until the incident tonight he had always been very understanding of her wishes. As she walked up the stairs to Ron’s old bedroom she thought perhaps she had been too hasty in leaving Ian’s flat. She was never one to walk away from an argument. Something about tonight had really grated on her nerves and she was grateful to finally have her best friend home to speak with.

The hall was softly lit as she meandered her way down to Percy’s old bedroom, hoping Harry had opted to keep with old habits and sleep there. There was absolute silence in the household and she smiled when she realized this was the first time she had ever known this home to be so tranquil. She tried to open the door but found it locked.

She muttered a simple unlocked spell and found herself face to face with a very sleepy looking, agitated Auror. “Merlin Hermione, are you always in the habit of unlocking bedroom doors in the middle of the night? I have to tell you that might not have been such a big deal at Hogwarts but that might not be such a good idea these days. You’ll never know what you might find.”

She looked Chris over and realized she was wearing one of Harry’s old seeker’s shirts. “I’m, oh, this is, and I’ll just leave then. I’m sorry.” Oh my god, oh my god.

“He’s not here, Hermione. Last I saw him, Harry was playing a game of chess with Ron; he’s probably passed out in Ron’s old room.” Hermione looked at Chris and couldn’t help but feel the smallest twinges of envy. Here was a girl that was just woken out of bed in the middle of the night and her hair and skin was flawless; not a hair out of place or any creases from sleep on her face.

“Thank you,” she said softly, feeling very much like a chagrined child. With a quick nod and muttered goodbye Chris closed the door leaving a slightly embarrassed Hermione standing in the hallway.

The walk down the hall to Percy’s room was far shorter than she remembered; this time she knocked softly on the door before she saw that unruly mess of black hair in the doorway.

“What’s a nice girl like you doing in a place like this?” he asked, opening the door for her and wordlessly inviting her into the room.

“I have no idea, Harry,” she replied honestly, “I feel like I didn’t get a chance to really talk to you tonight. I’m so sorry I left so abruptly.” She really looked at him for the first time in over a year. Long gone was that gangly teenager of the past. His shirtless upper body answered all the questions her imagination had ever asked. Ginny was right, Auror training really had transformed their friend. His body was still lean but very well sculpted; his face rugged and well defined. He gave her a curious look as he caught her gaze lingering on his physique a moment longer than propriety would have allowed.

“See something interesting?” he asked, chuckling lightly as her cheeks colored.

“You’re not that little boy I met on the express anymore, are you?” She was unable to hold his gaze and their awkward pause in conversation seemed to stretch into eternity.

He cleared his throat and answered, “You’re still the person that knows me best, Hermione.” He laid his hands upon her cheek and whispered softly, “I thought of you so often when I was away. I dreamt of you.”

“You don’t know what you’re saying, Harry,” she replied, leaning into his caress, “Too many things have changed. We’ve changed…”

”We’re not so very different,” he whispered in return. He drew her closer to him, finding her so very pliant in his arms.

“There are other people involved now. We can’t do this.” She looked into his eyes and was held captive by their hypnotic gaze.

“So tell me to stop.” With that said he pulled her roughly against him and devoured her lips with his own, running his hands possessively over her body.

She reciprocated in kind, feeling the hard planes of his back as she let her own hands wander over him, hoping to learn every crevice of his body. Her body temperature was rising and she could not contain her gasp as he backed her up against the wall pushing his hips against hers, feeling that delicious pressure in her abdomen beginning to build.

She could feel how hard he was against her and couldn’t believe she had never known him this part of him. His mouth was wreaking havoc upon her neck and she whimpered as he nipped at a particularly sensitive spot. He lifted her with ease and she wrapped her legs around him, finding his lips with her own as she moved her pelvis against him. He carried her across the room and deposited her on the bed, tearing his mouth away from hers only to remove her shirt.

Hermione bolted upright in bed. Her breathing was erratic and sweat ran down her body. Thank Merlin it was just a dream, she thought. She had debated after her argument with Ian if she should return to the Burrow but felt she wasn’t in the right frame of mind to be having a heart to heart with her friend. She had been right if her dream were any indication.

I shouldn’t be having these thoughts about Harry. But even she couldn’t deny that her dream had left her unmistakably very wet.

Author’s Note 2: Yeah, I know, I’m just not right… Even though the last portion of the chapter was a great big tease there is method to my madness. Hope you stick around to read the next chapter coming soon. Please leave me some feedback. Lots of feedback = greater posting motivation ;oP

7. ******AUTHOR'S NOTE******

Author's Note:

I'd like to take this opportunity to explain my little leave of absence. I was recently hired to work in my veritable dream job. I'm now a literary agent in training and it's almost like getting paid to read fanfic all day, except it's not…If that makes any sense at all. As you guys can imagine I spend so much time reading and writing for work I hardly find the time to do so on my personal time.

I think it only fair to follow this author's note with a posted chapter. Hence, when I get home tonight I'll post the chapter a long time in coming. Rest assured, for those of you still following FRP, it is being continued.

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