Love Conquers All

Love Conquers All

Chapter 1:

A Simple Background

The Christmas tree in the Burrow's living room was lit and wrapping paper littered the floor. Harry and Hermione were sitting on the couch in front of the fire staring into each other's eyes. Harry's bright green ones were twinkling with anticipation and love, and Hermione's brown ones were dancing with delight and compassion. They were about to give each other their Christmas gifts for one another, and they were so excited.

“Harry, I know we've only been together for two months, but I've loved you for 5 years now. This Christmas has been the best ever.” Hermione sighed and handed over the thin box she was holding. Harry's eyes softened and a large smile spread across his face.

“For me?” Harry teased, and Hermione laughed. She was nervous about his gift. She didn't know how he would react. Harry ripped away the wrapping paper, and it joined the rest of the trash on the red carpet. He looked up at Hermione, paused to kiss her temple, and opened the small box. Harry's face lit up. In the box lay a masculine thin golden chain with a tiny snitch dangling down the center. Harry looked up and smiled broadly at his girlfriend. “This is awesome, love.”

Hermione smiled and said, “It's enchanted. Whenever you genuinely smile the little wings will flap.” And sure enough when Harry smiled at the fact, the little snitch, now resting on his chest sprouted wings and they began to slowly flap.

“It's great, love, just perfect.” Harry leaned over to her and kissed her lightly on her mouth before titling his chin down to inspect his new necklace. Then he grabbed his even smaller box, and handed it over to Hermione. He chuckled at the excitement in her eyes and watched as she slowly and neatly took the wrapping paper off the box.

She lifted the lid to the square box and gasped. It was a tiny ring, just big enough to fit on her pinkie. It was just a simple band with hearts engraved around it. On the inside “HG+HP” was carved in. Harry took the small ring from Hermione's palm, where she had been examining it, and slid it on her left pinkie. “It's a promise ring, `Mione. It's so you and everyone else, but mainly you, know that you will be mine always. I will love you forever, and I will never stop.” Harry looked into Hermione's eyes and saw that tears were brimming on the edges. He wiped them away with his thumb and kissed her with so much love, her heart skipped a beat. When they broke apart, they looked into one another's eyes.

“I love you so much, Harry.” Hermione whispered. “Happy Christmas.”

“And I you, `Mione.” Harry replied with a lopsided grin.

It was a good thing that the sentiment was winding down between the two love-birds, because the last third of the trio had jumped right in between the two of them. Hermione squealed and Harry grunted as Ron landed half on top of him. Ron had a large grin on his face, and he swung his arms around the necks of his best friends.

“Enough mush for one day, mates! It's Christmas! Here are your gifts, and I thank you Harry, for the wonderful magazines!” Hermione grunted when Ron winked at him. “When ever you have a problem with Hermione, here just come to Ol' Ron, he'll hook you up.” Hermione shot Harry a look and he just laughed. “And thank you so much Hermione for the hand knitted something or other.”

“Scarf, Ron, scarf!” Hermione sighed. She had tried to do something knew, seeing she was no longer allowed to use the time turner for classes any more. But it turned out that knitting wasn't her strong suit.

“Oh, so that's what that's supposed to be.” Ron shrugged and handed his to best friends their gifts. They smiled at him and opened them up. Hermione gasped at the newly revised copy of Hogwarts: A History, and Harry sat mesmerized at the enchanted snitch he got from Ron. He was reading the box to see how it worked. It hovered over a flat surface, and when you went to grab it, it would dart out of the way, only 6 inches in any direction though.

“Wow, Ron, this is great!!” Harry exclaimed patting Ron on the back. Ron puffed out his chest and Hermione rolled her eyes. Ever since Mr. Weasley was elected Minister of Magic, Ron had a new pride in him; not only of his father, but of himself. He didn't have dodgy clothes anymore, and he was able to buy his friends gifts he thought they deserved. Of course Harry and Hermione would still be happy with the chocolate frogs and assorted candy they usually got, but Ron had always been embarrassed.

Ginny had come down the stairs about that time, and the four of them talked about the up coming year, and Quidditch. Ginny and Hermione had become really close friends, after her and Harry had gotten together. Hermione never had any close girlfriends, and even though Ginny was one year younger, they had gotten along brilliantly. Harry watched as Hermione laughed and tossed her long auburn hair behind her shoulder. Over the years since she was 11, Hermione's hair had become less frizzy and turned into soft tamed curls. She had grown curves and larger breasts, and though she didn't work out at all, she could eat anything she desired and wouldn't gain any weight. She was short, only about 5 feet 4 inches, which contrasted greatly to Harry's 6 feet 4 inches. Harry had grown too. He worked out every day, for Quidditch of course, and had grown into broad shoulders, tight abs, and strong arms. They talked late into the night and finally retreated to their bedrooms around 1 that morning.

The next morning, the four of them woke up to a large crack coming from downstairs. The girls ran into the boy's room and the four of the walked downstairs in their pajamas still. Mrs. Weasley was bustling around the kitchen like always; except it was about two hours earlier then the teenagers usually woke up. She noticed them in the kitchen and sighed, “I told you, you woke the kids Arthur. Next time you should floo when you come home for breakfast.” For the first time the four of them realized the Minister sitting in his usual chair at the kitchen table. Even in the Weasley's had money now, Mrs. Weasley refused to replace the kitchen table and the mismatched chairs.

Minister Weasley looked about ready to fall asleep in his eggs and bacon. He had been too tired to hold up his copy of the Daily Prophet, so it was laying on the table next to him. He looked up to the kids with an apologetic face and smiled a small bit. “I'm sorry kids. I didn't mean to wake you. We had a long night at the Ministry; I wasn't thinking when I came home.”

“What happened, Dad?” Ginny asked sitting down and helping herself to bacon. The rest of the group sat down as well and started to fill their plates with delicious breakfast foods.

“Well, someone was delivering papers to Lucius Malfoy late last night, and they found him in the basement of his mansion beating Draco and his wife, Narcissa.” Arthur took a long breath. Hermione and Ginny had put a hand to their mouth, and Ron and Harry looked wide-eyed at him.

“Oh stop Arthur; they do not need to know of such things.” Mrs. Weasley commented.

“That's nonsense Molly. They need to know of what's going on. They are old enough now. So anyway, he was using the imperious curse on the two of them to make them do and say what he felt was right. The person delivering the papers stunned him and apparated out to get help. All night we were dealing with the Malfoy's, and sending Lucius to Azkaban. That's where he is now, and where he will be for the rest of his life.” The four of them silently looked at the Minister and the rest of breakfast was eaten in silence.

* * *

“Well this is another end of the year.” Harry turned off Dumbledore's speech and looked around the Great Hall; just another end of year feast, and just another sad goodbye. Gryffindor banners hung from the ceiling, as they won the house cup this year, again. Hermione was sitting next to him, holding his hand. They had been together since the end of September, and he was still completely in love with her. He was dreading leaving her tomorrow morning. Ron sat across from him, sending little kisses to someone, unknown to Harry, probably just the latest flavor of the week. Ginny was sitting next to Ron staring off into space. This was the last night he would be in Hogwarts for a couple months, and he hated it. Hogwarts was his home, and he missed it more than anything when he was gone.

Hermione squeezed his hand and he was snapped back into reality. “I know that this coming summer and year will be a tough one for many.” Dumbledore looked down at Harry and a twinkle lit his eye. “So with permission of the new minister,” Ron and Ginny smiled, “All students who are ending their 6^th year will be allowed to do magic outside of school, regardless of their age. I hope that all of you who this pertains to will take this as a serious matter. Where I know you will use it wisely. With that, I hope you have a wonderful summer. And dig in.” Dumbledore clapped his hands, and the food appeared in front of them. Ron sighed happily and dug away at his food.

The next morning the four friends boarded the train. They sat in a compartment and chit-chatted about their summer plans. Harry was happier about this being his last summer with the Dursleys then anything else. They sat quietly for a while, before Ron and Ginny excused themselves with varying excuses. They both knew that Harry and Hermione wanted to be alone, but didn't want to seem as though they wanted to leave their friends.

When they were alone in the compartment, Hermione got up and sat on Harry's lap. He pulled her close to him, and she nuzzled her face into his neck, smelling his natural scent. He always smelt of nothing Hermione could describe, except good. Harry combed her hair with his hand and whispered in her ear, “I'm going to miss you, love. But I'll be here.” He said placing his unoccupied hand on her heart. She looked up at him and smiled.

“I know, Harry. You better write me everyday, and not fall in love with some tramp from Little Whingings.”

Harry chuckled and pulled her closer so he wouldn't forget the feeling of having her near, “I wouldn't dream of it, love.” He kissed her neck, and for a long while they just sat like that, kissing on occasion. After a while Ron and Ginny returned, but they only had about 10 minutes left before the train reached Kings Cross. The four of them put together their things, and cleaned up the mess they made with candy wrappers.

When the train stopped Harry and Hermione exited first. Ron helped Ginny with her trunk and then picked up his and left the compartment. Then Ginny started to exit the compartment, she ran straight into Draco Malfoy. “Oh Merlin, I'm so sorry.” Ginny stated looking up to his silver eyes. She seemed to be locked in his gaze. His blonde hair was just long enough to reach his eyes, and his broad shoulders were where her head was.

Draco looked down at the cute red-haired witch and smiled. He hadn't smiled in so long, but it felt natural to smile at her. “Don't worry about it, Ginny, my fault.” Ginny, he thought, where have you been? I've been looking for someone like you all year, and know as we leave you show up. He reached up and moved the hair out of his eyes.

She smiled up at him. Wow, she thought, could someone have more of a beautiful smile? Why didn't I talk to you all year? Ginny smoothed a hair behind her ear and cast her eyes downward.

“Here, let me help you with your trunk.” Ginny stood shocked when Draco stooped down to lift her trunk effortlessly. He shifted it on his hip and cocked his head toward the exit of the train, telling her to follow him. She did so, as in a trance. When they exited the train, Draco saw her family standing waiting for her. Potter and the Muggle-born were there too. He walked over to them, nodded, and dropped the trunk down next to Ron.

“Oh, Ron, close your mouth. Really!” Ginny snapped at him. Draco smirked and looked at her. He noticed a strand of hair had fallen out of place again and he fixed it a placed it behind her tiny, freckly, and beautiful ear. He heard Hermione and her mother gasp behind him. They know, he thought, that I want you to be in my life, Ginny. “Um, well thank you Draco.”

“My pleasure, Ginny. See you around.” With a nod to Mr. and Mrs. Weasley and the rest of the clan, he left.

Giving the last hugs to his family, and his love, Harry himself had to part. He saw his Uncle shifting on his feet and he noticed his eyes fuming. Harry sighed and walked over to him. With one last wave to his loved ones, he turned and walked two paces behind Vernon as he followed him to the car.

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Love Conquers All

Chapter 2:

The Beginning of a Great Summer

It was merely two weeks into the summer when Harry received another letter from Hermione. Already they had sent Hedwig back and fourth once every day. She didn't mind however, she was happy to be out and about, instead of cooped up in Harry's bedroom all summer. It was barely 8 o'clock that morning, but Harry had made it a custom to wake up early and read her letters to him. This one had to be the best one all summer:

Dear Harry,

My parents were called away on an Emergency Dentist call to New York. I guess that my Uncle, who lives there, got into some legal trouble and needs my parents to pick up the practice. Seeing they have a partnership here, they are leaving their practice here and going to New York. They do not know how long they are going to be gone.

Anyway, I have already owled the Weasley's, in order to stay there, however they returned the letter from Egypt. I guess you may know that if you have been talking to Ron, however I haven't. But anyway, I owled Professor Dumbledore and asked him what to do. He said I should owl you. I didn't think that your aunt and uncle would allow it, however I guess Dumbledore told me to tell you, that he would have words with them if they refused. So I will be arriving tomorrow promptly at 8 o'clock.

I can't wait to see you love I miss you so much…

The rest of the letter went on about her undying love for Harry and how much she missed him. Harry was so happy he could hardly contain himself! His girlfriend was coming here! To live with him until the Weasley's returned and they both would leave! Harry was so excited.

He loved Hermione more than anything in this world, and he would do anything for her. Being away from her broke his heart more everyday they were away. Yet she still had an influence on him, regardless of where she was. Whenever he felt like cursing Dudley or his aunt and uncle, he just thought of her “Really Harry, please use more common sense!” He'd smile at them and turn to leave the room, before he gained the courage to defy her memory.

So when his clock read 8:30, Harry bounced out of bed, threw on some of the new clothes he had picked up at a Muggle shop in Hogsmead, and trotted downstairs to the kitchen. Aunt Petunia was standing by the stove making bacon and eggs for them when he arrived. Dudley wasn't up yet, he rarely got up before 11 o'clock, however Uncle Vernon was sitting at the kitchen table eating some toast and reading the morning paper, before he left for work. Harry sat down across the table and stared at him.

Uncle Vernon looked up, screwed up his eyes and snapped, “What are you looking at boy?”

Harry smirked and stated, “The man who is about to make my year.” His uncle choked on his toast and placed the rest of it back on the plate, looking at him confusedly. “Well you see, my girlfriend, Hermione, she's in a bit of a spot, and needs to come and stay here.”

“Absolutely not.” Vernon interrupted.

“Well, actually Uncle Vernon, you don't have a choice in the matter. I'm not asking, I'm telling. You see if you were to say no, Headmaster Dumbledore said that he would come and have words with you about the matter.” Petunia, who was now standing behind Vernon, turned white and squeezed her husband's shoulders. “So Hermione, that's her name, learn it, because I will not tolerate you calling her anything else, will be arriving at 8 o'clock tomorrow.” With that Harry got up and left the kitchen.

Harry sat down at his desk and pulled out a quill and paper and scribbled:

Hermione,

That's great news. Everything is all set. You can arrive tomorrow. I can't wait to see you. I've missed you so much. Looking forward to your arrival!

Yours forever,

Harry

He tied the not to Hedwig, patted her on the head, and she took off out the open window.

The rest of the day was incredibly lazy for Harry. Dudley finally woke up around 11 o'clock like expected. He trudged down the hall and took a long shower, Harry could see the steam coming from the bottom of the bathroom when Petunia finally knocked on the door telling him lunch was ready, and it was time to get out. Harry watched Dudley from the corner of his eye when he was watching the afternoon news, he was eating the food from breakfast, and the food from lunch as his meal. What a pig, Harry thought to himself. No wonder he is the largest human being I've ever seen. Then Harry tried to pass the afternoon with doing some homework and changing his room to fit Hermione's needs.

After he was finally done with his transfiguration essay, Harry focused on changing his room. First he expanded his room to be about twice the size. He added another twin size bed about three feet away from his, and another night stand. The bed set on the new bed was a lilac color with light pink flowers on it. The night stand was a white one, with girly like knick-knacks on it. Then he added a bathroom. It was large, and had two sinks in it. It had two hooks on the back of the door, one for Hermione and one for him. He conjured up girly shampoo and conditioner, though he thought she might bring that stuff. He changed the color of his walls to be a light blue, instead of the puke green they normally were. He conjured up a stereo and added speakers in the bathroom and also put a TV in it with a VCR and DVD player. By the time he was finished it was nearly 9 o'clock.

Harry lied in bed trying to think of something other than the beautiful girl he was going to see tomorrow morning. He couldn't though. Even when he finally fell asleep he was dreaming of holding Hermione in his arms again, so tight he thought he'd never be able to let go. He dreamt about their future together, not a whisper of Voldemort was in his mind. He only wanted Hermione, and no one else.

Harry woke up the next morning at quarter till 8. He quickly got out of bed, flew in the shower and got dressed. As he was pulling down his shirt the doorbell rang. Harry smiled so big and the necklace he was wearing began to tickle his chest. Harry stormed down the stairs just as Vernon was opening the door. Harry saw his beautiful girlfriend smile at his uncle, and just as she was about to say hello, Harry ran and scooped her up and twirled her around in the doorway. Hermione squealed and buried her head into his neck. Finally Harry put her down, and she looked up into his eyes.

“Man I've missed you, love.” Harry said to her. Hermione just smiled and stood on his tip toes to kiss his lips.

“Well,” Vernon said a little too loud. Harry looked up, letting go of Hermione's lips. Petunia stood off to the side pursing her lips. Harry wasn't sure if she was smiling or scowling, as he had never seen her smile. “I suppose you are Hermione?” Vernon barked.

“Yes sir, I am.” Hermione smiled at the surprised look Vernon wore after experienced her manners. She extended her hand to Vernon, and then Petunia. “I'm Harry's girlfriend. It's a pleasure to meet you.”

Vernon was shocked. “I thought you were from the boy's school?”

Hermione smiled again. “Harry's school? Oh, yes sir, I am. But my parents are not magical. I grew up in this world like Harry.”

The group was still standing on the front stoop. Petunia looked around nervously, “Vernon, why don't we come inside?”

“Yes, yes of course dear. Come inside won't you Hermione?” Hermione smiled at the curtsey she received and walked inside. Harry stooped down and lifted her trunk effortlessly and brought it upstairs to his room. When he returned to the living room, Petunia had set out tea and the three of them were talking. “So, Hermione, how long have you and Harry been together?” This was very weird to Harry, because they have never taken interest. But Hermione just smiled sweetly and answered, taking Harry's hand as he sat next to her.

“Well we've been together for about 10 months, since the end of September.” She squeezed Harry's hand after she answered, telling him she loved him.

“And what are you parents doing?” Petunia asked, being her nosey self.

“My parents are dentists, and they are in New York taking over my uncle's practice. Thank you so much for allowing me to come.” Harry snorted and Hermione shot him a look. A look he didn't want to question, so he shut up and drank his tea. After more meaningless chit chat, Harry heard large steps on the stairs. It was early for Dudley to be awake.

“Oh my! I forgot all about Duddikins breakfast! Please excuse me!” She shot up from her seat and ran into the kitchen trying to put something together for Dudley to eat.

Harry could hear him whining from the kitchen. Saying something about watching TV when she finished, he came into the living room where they were having their tea. He stopped in the door way and just looked around the room. His head shot from his father, to Harry, to Hermione, and back to Harry. “What did you do Harry, get a whore pregnant?”

Harry shot up ready to pounce on him. However, Hermione grabbed his arm and pulled him down. “No, Dudley. I'm Harry's girlfriend, not a whore. And I most certainly am not pregnant.”

“Well,” Vernon cut in, “we are very glad that isn't the matter, because I will not be taking care of any baby every again. So, you can do anything you like. Just stay out of my hair. I don't want to hear you to at any point with in the couple of weeks you are going to be hear. And if I do, I will throw you out. Boy, I'm glad you found someone decent, but I still don't like you. Get out of my site.” Harry was extremely confused. First his uncle seemed civilized and then he did a complete 180 and was himself again. However, Harry just nodded and took Hermione's hand, and led her to his room.

Hermione giggled when she walked in and saw how he obviously changed his room for her. “I think I need to change this a little bit, love.” She smiled and with a wave of her wand, the middle night stand disappeared and the two twin beds became one full size bed with a flowery bed spread.

Harry chuckled and hugged Hermione from behind after closing his bedroom door. “No, no, no. That will not due.” Hermione turned around confused and looked him in the eye with a tilted head. Harry chuckled again at her confusion, waved his wand, and turned her back around. She giggled cutely when she saw he turned the comforter to a dark maroon. She spun around wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him close to her. Then she backed into the bed and fell while she planted her lips on his.

“I missed you!” she mumbled in between kisses. Harry silenced her with his tongue on hers, explaining with out words that he felt the same way. He had flipped the two of them over so Hermione was on top of him and his hands roamed from her hair, down her back, to her ass and she moaned against his mouth with his touch. With much reluctance Hermione backed away from the kiss and sat up, still straddling Harry. Harry looked up at her with swollen lips and happy eyes. “Harry, love, we need too stop! I have to unpack! We'll have plenty of time for this, the Weasley's aren't returning for two weeks!”

They spent the rest of the morning settling Hermione into the room. They added a table to do their homework on and to eat on. Hermione had put her clothes in the new dresser Harry had added and put all of her toiletries into the bathroom. Once she was finished Harry conjured up some pizza for lunch, and they sat down to watch a little bit of TV while eating it. They chatted about what to do these two weeks, and they chatted about this up coming school year.

“I don't understand your aunt and uncle, Harry. They were so nice when I first arrived. Something triggered in your uncle when your cousin came into the room. I'm so sorry.” Hermione had finished her pizza and put the plate on the night stand on the side of the bed. Harry gulped his down, placed his plate on his and looked into her eyes.

“`Mione, you have nothing to be sorry for. My aunt and uncle are not going to change, because they think you are decent or not. I love you, and you know that their thoughts don't mean anything to me. We will be out of here in two weeks, and then everything will be perfect.” He hugged Hermione close to him and kissed her temple. Hermione sighed and wrapped her arms around his waste. “You want to take a walk `Mione? I can show you where I grew up.” Hermione looked at him and nodded while smiling slightly.

Harry unwrapped her from him and stood up taking her hand. The two of them walked out of Harry's room and down the stairs, and out the front door. They did this quietly not to make the other people in the house agitated. Harry and Hermione walked around the block and to the park.

When they got to the park, Hermione walked over to the swing set and sat on a swing. Harry came up behind her and started to push her. She is beautiful, Harry thought, how could anybody see bad in this girl? She is the best thing in my life, and I don't know what I'd do with out her. She pushed her back and she got higher and higher. She giggled and Harry couldn't be any happier watching the wind blow in her hair. Not being able to keep from taking her in his arms, Harry grabbed her by the waste when she came back to him. She screeched in delight as Harry attacked her neck in kisses.

“Merlin, you smell wonderful, `Mione.” Harry whispered to her. They had been out all afternoon and it was turning dusk. The sun was setting, and Harry knew they shouldn't be out after dark. “We should be getting back, love. It's getting too dark to be out.”

Hermione pouted, but nodded, “I guess your right, Harry.” She linked her arm in his and allowed him to lead them back to the house.

When they returned, Hermione conjured up some pasta and they sat at the table and ate, talking about how they thought Ron and the rest of the Weasley's were doing in Egypt. It was around 7 when they finally cleaned up, and Harry excused himself to get ready for bed. When he had finished brushing his teeth and washing his face, he came out to see Hermione surfing the channels on the TV and waiting for the bathroom. She smiled at him, lightly kissed his lips and scooped up her clothes and walked into the bathroom.

Harry went to work. He knew he didn't have much time. He quickly conjured 100 candles and lit all of them. He turned off the lights, and spread rose petals on the bed. He put to candles on the table, and conjured up a wonderful strawberry chocolate cake for a dessert. He cast a quick silencing charm on the room, and he switched his clothes with his wand, to black pants and a black button down shirt, and conjured one red rose charmed never to die. He waited, standing facing the door to the bathroom. He heard the sink turn off and saw the hand turn. Hermione stepped out in cotton pj bottoms and a cotton tank. She gasped as she looked around. “H-Harry? This is beautiful! But I'm a little under dressed.” She looked down at her cotton pajamas and frowned.

Harry lifted her chin with his finger and waved his wand. When he let go of her chin she looked down at herself again and she was in an elegant white silk dress that hung low on her chest and high at her knee. Harry intertwined his fingers in hers and led her over to the table. They sat romantically feeding each other the cake and whispering how much they loved each other.

Soon they had finished their cake and Harry had led Hermione to their bed. He laid her down and traced her cheek with his fingers. “Hermione?” She knew what he was asking her. They had been together for almost a year, and if she said that she didn't want to make love to him, she would be lying. She wanted with everything she had to be with him in the most intimate way. She wanted to feel his love, not just know it.

“Yes Harry. Please make love to me.” Harry bent down his neck and kissed her gently. He was determined to make their first time romantic and passionate. He moved from her lips to her neck and to her shoulders. Harry moved the straps of the silk dress off her shoulders and she moaned at the gentle kisses.

Harry pulled Hermione up and unzipped the dress from behind. It revealed her bare breasts and flat stomach. He loved her. Every part of her, and he wanted to show her. He kissed her chest and moved his mouth to the sensitive part of her breast. She moaned as his tongue danced around her nipple and as his mouth sucked her. His hands gently ran up and down her sides causing goose bumps to form on her skin. Harry then traveled to the other breast and continued the same technique before turning back to her lips.

Hermione pushed to hands to his chest and stopped his kisses. He looked at her with the most intense gaze she has ever felt. Hermione flipped Harry over and stood up and pulled the dress off of her the rest of the way, showing Harry the rest of her body. “You're the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.” Harry breathed. Hermione smiled and laid him back on the bed. She unbuttoned his shirt and kissed her way down his 6 pack abs as she did so. He moaned slightly, liking the feeling of her soft lips on his skin. Harry sat up and pulled off his shirt the rest of the way when Hermione started to unbutton his pants. She pulled his black pants and boxers off his legs. She took a large breath when she saw him. She reached her hand to his balls and massaged them with one as she took him into her mouth. She heard Harry breathe her name as he became harder inside her mouth. Not wanting to push him too far, she stopped and the two of them crawled under the covers of their bed.

Harry cradled her close taking in everything about her. His hand gently ran up and down her body, teasing her with the light touch. He started at her stomach and then traced her thigh and ass. Then he made his way to her inner thigh, and slowly made his way higher so he was just barely touching her moist sex. When she started to moan in aggravation, he eased crossed two fingers and eased them inside of her. She sighed under his kiss. He had done this before, but it always felt so right. He touched her in every spot that made her quiver and eventually she was enjoying the ripple of electricity. She gasped under her lover's mouth and grasped the bed sheets.

Harry knew she was ready now. He had been ready for a while, but he knew that the first time hurt for a woman, and he wanted to make tonight as enjoyable as possible for her. He climbed on top of the love of his life and looked directly into her eyes. She had calmed down from the orgasm, and she nodded. She lifted her legs and linked them behind Harry's back, giving him plenty of room. He kissed her lips gently as he eased himself into her. He gasped under him, and as much as he wanted to dive right into her, he knew he had to go slow. He pushed further in until he felt her barrier. The separated their lips and Harry locked eyes with Hermione.

“I love you `Mione. But you know this is going to hurt.”

“I know Harry. It's ok, I want this. I want you. I love you so much.” She responded.

Harry didn't need any more encouragement. He pushed through her barrier and filled her entirely. She gasped, and cried out in pain. Harry hushed her with soothing words of love and desire. He kissed away the tear that escaped her eye, and stayed still until she was comfortable again. Just being inside her this way was overwhelming for him. He slowly began to move again when she started to kiss him deeper and harder. She whispered dirty thoughts into his ear and he moaned and started to slowly pump in and out of her. She began to moan in pleasure, and it wasn't long before the two of them were wrapped in each others arms experiencing the best feeling they could ever know, the love you feel when you orgasm with your soul mate.

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Love Conquers All

Chapter 3:

A Change in Scenery

Hermione's stay with Harry seemed to slip away faster than either of them would have hoped. They primarily stayed in Harry's room, only venturing out for the occasional trip to the park to watch the little kids and to take a ride on the slide. They did homework and played Muggle chess (because Hermione thought Wizard's chess was inhumane). They watched Muggle TV and fell asleep watching movies together. Two more times the love birds had a night just like the first night Hermione arrived.

Harry loved to lie close to Hermione when they had finished making love; their naked bodies hugging each other. Harry could smell her shampoo and would twist her curls in between his fingers. Hermione would fight sleep, trying to remember and absorb as much of the feeling of having Harry close to her as possible, but in the end, his heart beat and they way he played with her hair would lull her into a slumber. Even on nights they didn't make love, Harry and Hermione would cuddle close to each other and fall asleep in each others arms. Harry never had nightmares when his arms were wrapped around Hermione. She was his savior, and it made him love her even more.

However, the time came for them to move to Grimmald Place with the Weasley's, and as much as they wanted to keep their new found privacy, both of them were truly happy to be leaving. They couldn't wait to get away from the Dursleys and finally see Ron and Ginny, along with the rest of the Weasley gang again. The morning that Ron was to arrive to pick them up, Hermione and Harry rushed around trying to pack everything in their trunks, and putting the room back to normal. Hermione had swished the bed to its original size and worn out look, and Harry swooshed the new bathroom away. When the two were finished Harry sighed and fell on to his old bed.

“Well I'm glad that's over.” Harry stated.

“Well, me too I guess. I can't say I'm going to miss this place Harry, but it was nice to spend the last two weeks alone with you.” Hermione sighed and snuggled into Harry's side.

He wrapped an arm around her, hugged her close, and replied, “I'm totally with you, love.” They lay in the old sunken bed for another several minutes, until the clock read 9 45. “We should probably go down and wait for Ron. He said they were coming in a car.” Harry sighed more heavily at the prospect of seeing his “family” before he left for good. Hermione nodded and bounced off the bed to help Harry shrink the trunks. They put them in their pockets and left the room. Harry took one more look, and closed the door quietly as they walked out.

Downstairs, Vernon and Dudley were watching the television, something on the latest football game that they had seen, and as the instant replay showed the ball being kicked into the net, the two cheered exuberantly. However, when they saw who had just entered the living room the shot them evil glares.

“I thought I told you to stay out of my hair boy?!” Vernon snapped at Harry.

“You did. Hermione and I are leaving today. I wanted to tell you not to bother going to Kings Cross at the end of the school year, because I will not be coming back next summer. This is our last year of school.” Harry ended proudly. Dudley was a year older than Harry, and he still had to attend two more years of school.

Vernon's eyes sparkled. He was about to say something when Dudley cut him off, “So you mean I won't be able to sexy here,” gesturing to Hermione, who gagged, “anymore?”

Harry stepped in front of Hermione and responded, “If you every talk about my girlfriend in such a manner again, you will find yourself in a far worse condition then with a tail on your ass.”

“DON'T YOU DARE!” Vernon was purple now. He was going to scream some more about Harry's “indecency” when a loud knock came from the font door.

“That's our ride.” Harry said pointedly. He took Hermione's hand and started to drag her away from the living room, but she stopped him.

She looked right at Vernon and said, “You are a lousy person. But I do thank you for allowing me to come to live with you these two weeks. I hope I wasn't an inconvenience.” Then she turned to Petunia and said, “I really enjoyed the tea we had our first day. I really wish that we had more time to talk. Thank you very much.” With that she turned to Harry grabbed his hand and left the room.

“What was that all about `Mione?” Harry asked flabbergasted.

“Well I just thought I needed to say thank you, because I was living in their house for two weeks.” Harry shrugged at her comment and opened the door to see Ron smiling at them.

“Hey, Mate!” Ron said pulling Harry into masculine hug. Then he backed away and grabbed Hermione in his arms and swung her around. She giggled in a friendly way, and hugged him back when he finally put her down. “I hope that your two weeks weren't horrible Hermione. I'm sorry you couldn't stay with us, but Egypt was great!”

Hermione looked at Harry and smirked, then turned back to Ron and said, “It was perfect here. I'm glad we're leaving though. I can't wait to get to Grimmald Place again.”

Harry nodded, “That's the only place I truly feel at home now.”

Ron smiled and clapped Harry's back with his hand, “Well don't worry, because it will be great!” Then he led them to the car. It was a ministry car, obviously set up by Minister Weasley. Ron opened the door for the two, and they got in. Harry noticed that he was looking better this summer. His fling with Lavender didn't go so well last year, and when summer started he was in shambles. But know he looked at him and he was dressed nice, with his hair styled in gel. His eyes were brighter and his skin was a bit pink from his trip to Egypt. But still Harry knew there was something going on. You didn't get over a girl you were supposed to be in love with, who cheated on you, in two weeks because of a trip to Egypt.

“So, Ron, who is she?” Harry chuckled. Hermione must have noticed too, because she was looking expectantly after the question was asked.

“What do you mean mate?” Ron tried to look innocent, but his smile gave himself away. “Oh bloody hell; do I really look that happy?” Ron laughed when Harry and Hermione nodded their heads smiling. “Well you see when I got to Egypt, they gave me to the key to the wrong room, and when I walked into the bathroom, Luna Lovegood was taking a shower. Well, immediately I left, but we hit it off when we were there. So she's at Grimmald Place right now, and we are together. It's going great. Really different than any other girl I've ever been with.”

Hermione laughed, “That's because this girl has morals, Ron.” Harry chuckled and Ron shrugged wearing a toothy grin.

The rest of the ride to Grimmald place was driven in silence, with an occasional story about Egypt. More or less all of the stories Ron told contained Luna, and Harry couldn't help but smile for the caring Ron felt for her. When the car finally stopped the trio hopped out. But Harry could see that they weren't even on Grimmald Place. “Where are we Ron?” Harry asked confused.

“Oh, we are at the floo spot. We had to come here instead of Grimmald Place, because Dad doesn't want a driver to know where the house is, just in case you know.” Harry and Hermione nodded and the three walked into the floo spot and promptly arrived in the living room of Grimmald Place.

It was still dark and gothic, but it was clean. All of it was possible because of Mrs. Weasley, Ginny, and Luna's abilities to clean the house in record time. “MOM! WE'RE HERE!” Ron bellowed. The two Weasley women and Luna rushed into the living room to great them.

“Oh dear! Look at you. I always thought floo was a barbaric way to travel.” She brushed the soot off of Harry and Hermione and then pulled them into a hug. When she finally let go she stated, “Well put your things away. Lunch will be ready in about an hour.” Then she left and Ginny, Luna, Ron, Hermione, and Harry were left to go upstairs and unpack their things.

It was apparent by the disheveled mess in which Ron's things were left in, that they too had only arrived that morning. So the two boys put away their clothes and Harry put up a couple frames on the night stand. When they were finished they walked to the girl's room and knocked on the door. However, when no one answered Harry sent Ron a quizzical look. “Come on girls!” Ron called, “Open up.” They heard a click of the lock unlatching, and the boys walked in.

The room was in shambles; clothes everywhere, make up on the bed, bathroom supplies spread out on the floor. The three girls stood in the bathroom in different clothes then they had been in a half hour ago, and they were doing each other's hair. Ron sighed sarcastically, “Looks like we lost them Harry!” Harry laughed but stopped abruptly at the sight of Hermione's face.

“Honestly, Ron, we are girls you know.” Hermione sighed looking back at Luna's hair.

“Yea, Ron, and Hermione got knew clothes so we tried it on.” Luna replied doing Ginny's make up.

“Yea well, just don't over do it Luna. I like you the way you are.” Ron saved himself.

Harry just shrugged his shoulders and said, “We'll see you at lunch.”

* * *

The next two weeks were relaxed. The five students finished up there homework. Or rather Harry and Hermione finished up their homework, the rest only just started. They played wizarding games, chatted about the up coming year, and talked about what to do after graduation. Luna and Ginny were still only going in their 6^th year, so they whined about being left behind. Hermione noticed, and brought it to Harry's attention, that Ginny was sneaking off whenever the mail came, and wouldn't turn up for some time later. She was wondering who she was getting mail from, and who she was writing too.

Harry and Hermione were perplexed about where to get their alone time in. Everyday more people from the order walked in and out of Headquarters then were enrolled in Hogwarts! They tramped up and down the stairs, went into all the rooms, so there wasn't any room the love birds could enjoy time alone together with out getting caught. Harry was becoming restless and very touchy with Hermione, who wasn't exactly complaining.

At one point, a couple days before Harry's 17^th birthday, the couple was lounging out in the back yard taking in the sun rays next to each other. They were pretending they were at a beach, so they had a cooler with lunch, a Muggle radio playing some unknown music to them, and a beach blanket. Harry was lying on his back and Hermione on her stomach. They were lying peacefully with their eyes closed, both thinking about how much they wanted to be naked with each other, when Hermione interrupted the silence.

“Harry?”

“Mmhmm?”

“What do you want for your birthday?” Harry opened his eyes which were shaded by his sunglasses. In the 6 birthdays Harry had experienced when he knew Hermione, she had never once asked him that question. He sat up and laid half on top, half next to her, moved her hair way from her neck and kissed it.

“You mean you don't already know what you're getting me?” Harry whispered.

“I didn't say that. I was just realizing I've never asked you that, so I was wondering.” Harry sighed and snuggled his face into her warm neck.

“Well,” He mumbled into her skin, “I don't think you need to buy me anything, but I'd really like just a night alone with you.” Hermione smiled and shifted to her back, now face to face with him. “I just want to be with you, holding you again `Mione.” He bent his head down and kissed her gently on her lips. She moaned as the kiss became more passionate. Harry's hand traced her flat stomach, revealed by her bikini. Then someone cleared their throat behind them and they separated abruptly, leaving room for Ginny, Ron, and Luna to sit down on the blanket.

“Sorry, Mate. But we wanted to ask you what you wanted for your birthday.” Ron smiled at him.

“Why is it everyone is asking me that question?” Harry sighed, lying back down on the blanket, but this time on his stomach.

Luna giggled. “Well we just want to make this a good one for you Harry.”

“Well, in that case,” Harry replied, “I would like for you to save the world, instead of me, and possibly a wonderful night with my beautiful girlfriend.”

“Um...” Ron thought for a moment, “I think I can take care of the last, but not the first. Sorry, Harry, you're on your own for that one.”

“Oh bullocks.” Harry replied, “Well at least I tried.” He shrugged nonchalantly, still lying on his stomach. He felt the three of them get up and leave Hermione and him alone again. Then he felt her climb on his back, with one leg on either side of his waist. Then she took her delicate, soft fingers and started to massage his back.

She leaned down close to his ear and whispered, “I'm gonna try my hardest to get you what you dream for your birthday Harry.” With that he whipped around and pulled her by the next to him. He kissed her so passionately; he could feel her moisten in her bikini bottoms. She shimmied down so she was lying directly on top of him, and they stayed that way, kissing and touching each other until they had to go in and change for dinner.

* * *

Two days later it was Harry's birthday! He was woken up bright and early by the gang jumping onto his bed, and Ron delivering him his 17 birthday punches (“And just one more for good luck, mate!”). Even though his arm was still sore from Ron's fist, he smiled at the memory. It was the best birthday wake up call he had ever had, actually it was the only birthday wake up call he had ever had. Hermione had given him a good morning/birthday kiss and the other two girls “awww”-ed.

Before the festivities were to start around 3 however, Dumbledore and Remus were going to take Harry to Gringotts. Remus said that know that he was of age, Greg the Goblin had some business to discuss with him. So around 12 30, only about two hours after he had been woken up, the three of them flooed to Gringotts in Diagon Alley.

Once there they were met by Greg the Goblin himself. “Hello Mr. Potter. I understand today is your 17^th birthday! Congratulations!” He said in a drawling voice.

“Thank you very much...umm?” Harry looked at the goblin for an answer of what to call him.

“Oh, sir, call me Greg. Come right this way, Mr. Potter.” He said walking away from the lobby of Gringotts to a door labeled, “Important Goblins Only.”

“Isn't Greg a human name?” Harry asked Dumbledore, because Greg himself was too far ahead of them to answer.

“Well, you see Harry, its short for Gregorion.” Dumbledore answered.

“Oh” Harry nodded, understanding now.”

Finally the three guests had caught up to Greg as he was entering his office. They took the seats Greg conjured up for them, and Greg pulled out some paperwork.

“Now that you are a legal wizard, Mr. Potter, your assets have changed a little. That's why I asked to see you today. You see, your parents had started a vault for you when you were born. The money was giving to them from your grandparents so they could start a vault for you. They started with 2,000 galleons. At first the money was just sitting there gaining interest as the months went by. However, when they knew the war was turning ugly, two months after you were born, they decided to put all the money they received into your personal vault. So before they died, even though it was 6 months, 200,000 thousand galleons were put into your vault.” Harry's mouth fell open.

“Harry, listen to the rest of what he has to say, Greg is far from done.” Remus patted Harry's back. He closed his mouth and nodded.

Greg shifted in his chair and continued, “Well after they passed away, the insurance was put into your vault as well, Mr. Potter. This includes life insurance on both of your parents, equaling 1 million galleons each, and the house insurance for Godrics Hollow, equaling 750,000 galleons. So, as of two days after your parents were murdered, the account had 2, 950,000 galleons stored in it. Of course, that was 17 years ago, and well the interest has nearly doubled that. So you have roughly 6 million galleons in that vault, Mr. Potter.” Greg took a breath and looked at Harry's pale face.

“Merlin.” Harry gasped.

“Mr. Potter, I'm not quite finished yet.” Greg shifted again in his seat. Harry looked at him wide eyed.

“What else is there Greg?” Remus asked.

“Well, quite a lot actually.” Greg took a breath and continued. “From this sheet I have in front of me, I see that you have nearly 200,000 galleons left in your parents account. You only spent 10,000 galleons in your years at school. Well we added that to your new vault. But you also have the vault that Sirius Black left you.” Harry's head snapped up from its droop. “He didn't have as much as your parents; however he did have quite a lot. It equaled out to be about 1 million galleons. This does not include the two houses he left you in his will.”

“Two houses?” Harry questioned.

“Yes. He left you number 12 Grimmald Place and a large summer cottage in Scotland. Mr. Black has left you all his money, and the two houses, to do at your own will. That vault has been kept separate from yours unless you say other wise. Also, your parents had a vault that was opened when they went into hiding, keeping most of their belongings. Then when the house was destroyed the belongings Dumbledore and the others found were brought there. You may want to look through that, sir.” Harry nodded. He didn't think he'd ever be able to experience things that belonged to his parents. “Well, that is all of it, Mr. Potter. But to sum it all up for you, you have three knew vaults. One with 6.1 million galleons, another with 1 million galleons, and the last filled with your parent's belongings. You also own two houses, both, by the way, on the floo network. Did you understand all that Mr. Potter?” Greg finished.

Harry nodded, “Do I need to go through the vault with my parent's things now?”

Greg shook his head and pulled out three keys from the top drawer in his desk. “You can go whenever you like. I do want to know, sir, if you would like to put the galleons in the vault Sirius left you, in your personal vault?”

Harry looked at Remus for guidance, “Well, Harry. It's all your money. It would be easier to track one key, rather than two.”

Harry nodded and looked at Greg. “Yes please.” With the wave of his hand, Greg merged the two keys into one form. He picked up the new key and the second key and handed them to Harry. Harry placed the two keys in his pants pocket. Then the three guests stood up and shook hands with Greg. He escorted them back to the floo point, and they went back to Grimmald Place, Harry's true home.

-->

Love Conquers All

Chapter 4:

Merlin

The night Harry returned from Gringotts, there was a huge bash for his birthday. It was held at the burrow, to keep the identity of headquarters a secret from the rest of the teenagers that were close to Harry. Of course, his house mates came to celebrate; along with the rest of the Weasley clan and their girlfriends and wives.

Bill and his expecting wife, Patty, had showed up with some Egyptian artifacts that they thought would go well in Harry's new home. Charlie and his fiancé, Lindsey, gave Harry a framed picture of him dodging past the Horn Tail his 4^th year at Hogwarts. “I just found that picture a couple months ago, Harry. I thought you'd enjoy it.” Harry laughed and nodded; losing Cedric that day didn't hurt as much as it did in the past. Percy was still absent from the family, as he was angered at his father for beating Crouch in the Minister election. Fred and George had brought their girlfriends Katie and Angelina. They, of course, gave Harry a bucket filled with their new gags to “use on the new teachers.” Hermione gave Harry an I-don't-think-so look, but Harry just chuckled and gave Ron a nothing's-going to-stop-us-from-using-these look when Hermione turned around.

Harry got tidbits of Quidditch supplies from his friends from school. Dean had giving him a football book, trying to sway his opinion of the sport. Ron had given Harry a new cloak to wear when they was practicing in the cold and rain, and Ginny had given him a golden plate, for his Quidditch locker, engraved, “Potter, Captain.”

“That's nice Ginny, but I don't know if I'll be captain yet.” Harry stated.

“You will Harry, everyone knows it.” Ron chimed up.

“So what did you get me `Mione?” Harry asked turning expectantly at his girlfriend.

She just smiled sweetly, patted his hand and replied, “You will see later on.” Harry smirked and Ron coughed jokingly. Everyone laughed and they returned to the party.

The Weasley men, and the women who played Quidditch, played a lazy game of Quidditch until dark. When Harry had landed his broom, he went into the restroom to freshen up and to say goodbye to his guests. But when he arrived back outside he saw that everyone was down next to the fire pit. The minister had started a fire and they were all telling stories and singing songs. Harry couldn't seem to find Hermione in the mess of people, so he just sat down next to Ron. He smiled at him and listened for a long while, laughing at the funny memories people told of him, or the other people at the party. When Harry had been there for a while, and still hadn't spotted Hermione he started to get worried.

“Ron, have you seen `Mione?” Harry asked frowning, again darting his eyes around the fire. Ron shrugged but just as he did, Hedwig flew down to Harry. She landed on his lap, and Harry could see a paper tied around her leg. Out of the corner of his eye he saw everyone smirking and looking at him. He opened the note and read to himself:

Roses are Red,

Violets are Blue,

My Lips are sweet,

And ready for you.

So follow your heart,

To where I'll be,

Waiting for you,

To come and kiss me.

Harry chuckled to himself and said goodbye and thank you to everyone. As he was giving Ron a hug thank you for such a wonderful day, Ron whispered in his ear, “We won't be back to Grimmald until lunch tomorrow.” Harry nodded and went into the house. He stepped into the fireplace through down the powder, while speaking “12 Grimmald Place,” and was transported through the floo network to his home.

He was coughing and wheezing when he arrived in the living room of the house. There were rose petals on the floor leading out of the living room and going up the stairs. Harry followed the red petals up the stairs and down the hall to the master bed room. The door was left ajar, but Harry couldn't see anything from the opening. He pushed the door open slowly and spoke, “`Mione?” When he stepped into the bedroom candles floating above him flickered on, and his love was illuminated on the bed.

Silk, off white sheets were on the bed, and Hermione laid on top them facing Harry in a red lace bra and matching thong. Harry stood there with his jaw open. “Hermione, this isn't what I meant for a birthday present.” He whispered walking over to her.

She giggled at him and replied, “Silly Harry. This is only part of it.” She reached over to the desk next to them, and grabbed a small box wrapped in red wrapping paper. Harry smiled and began to unwrap it.

Inside the box was a silver and blue Muggle/Wizard watch. The watch had a Muggle clock face with a second hand, a minute hand, and an hour hand. But the watch also had three faces on it, which pointed to words on the outside of the numbers. Ron and Ginny's face pointed to the word, Burrow, and Hermione's face pointed to Home. The words were written there digitally, so they would change when the person moved. Harry thought it was the best gift he had ever received, except of course his firebolt.

He looked at his beautiful girlfriend and kissed her gentle as he put his watch on. After he was finishing clasping it, he put his hands on either side of Hermione's face. She had one hand on his arm and the other in his black messy hair. They had the whole night to themselves, and Harry was going to take advantage of it.

* * *

Harry couldn't take his eyes off of her. She was beautiful. She slept quietly next to him. Her hair sprawled out across the pillow, and her cheeks were rosy from the heat of the bed. There was one group of hair that fell into her face when she shifted, and he moved it cautiously, not to wake her. Harry wanted to spend the rest of his life with this girl, he knew it. He had loved her since 5^th year, and he would love her forever. He glanced at his new watch and saw that it was almost 11 30. The Weasley's would be back after lunch, and Harry wanted to have a nice lunch with Hermione and talk to her about what went on at Gringotts.

He silently crawled out of his bed, found his boxers and robe, and padded downstairs to the kitchen. He took out the skillet and a regular pan, and searched the ice box. He took out 4 eggs and a bunch of bacon and set to work. He popped a couple pieces of toast in for each of them, and when they were finished he put just enough butter on it. He placed it all on a large tray, and levitated it up the stairs and into the bedroom.

When he got there Hermione was still sleeping soundly. He placed the tray down on the ground and crawled into the bed next to her. He kissed her forehead and whispered, “`Mione. Wake up beautiful.”

Hermione slowly opened her eyes and smiled sleepily, rubbing her eyes as she said, “Good Morning handsome. What time is it?”

“Well, it's about lunch time. The Weasley's are due back around 1, so I put together a breakfast for you sleepyhead.” Harry replied.

“Aw Harry, it's your birthday.” Hermione frowned.

Harry chuckled, “But I could disturb such an angel this morning.” Hermione smiled as Harry levitated the tray of food over to them and sat it down in between them.

They ate quietly for a while, just enjoying the mood. The Hermione seemed to realize she forgot about the Gringotts meeting yesterday and her eyes widened and she said, “What happened at the Bank yesterday?”

Harry nodded, swallowed his food, and then replied, “Well it seems that I am a very rich man.” Hermione just looked at him confused. “You see my parents put an account aside for me when they went into hiding. All the insurance money went in there, and I also have the money from Sirius and the gold left over in the original vault I got.” Hermione's eyes got bigger. But Harry continued. “And I own this house, and another in Scotland. That's what happened.”

“Merlin. So how much do you have exactly?” Hermione whispered.

“Umm…about 6 million galleons.” Harry grabbed another piece of toast and started munching on it. Hermione just looked at him surprised. “Well are you going to stop loving me now?”

“Goodness no Harry. It's just a lot to comprehend.”

“Yea I know.”

The couple ate the rest of their breakfast in silence. When they were both finished Harry scurgified to the dishes and banished them to the kitchen. They lay in the bed cuddling and kissing for another 15 minutes, and then around 12 30 got ready for the Weasley's. While Harry was changing, Hermione went around and cleaned up the rose petals from the floor. Then when they both finished they switched and Hermione got changed and Harry cleaned up the mess in the kitchen. By 1 o clock, when the Weasley's bounded through the fire place, Harry and Hermione where enjoying tea in the backyard.

Ron saw them through the kitchen window and smiled. He was so happy for his friends, he didn't know if he would ever have the love they had for each other, but he hoped he did. He walked out side and sat down on the grass besides them. He laid his head back on the ground and sighed, “Weird how it's just us three again.”

Harry chuckled, “Where's Luna?”

“Ah. She had to go home and be with her father a little before school starts, she'll be back in about a week. I'm going over there this afternoon for tea and to meet him.” He replied with a nervous grin. Harry smiled reassuringly at him.

“Oh yes. Speaking of seeing people.” Hermione turned to Harry and continued, “I need to visit my aunt and uncle this afternoon.” Harry gave her a Do-I-have-to-go-look. “Oh Harry, honestly. No, you don't have to come with me.”

“So it's just me and Ginny then. We'll I'll go see what she wants to do when you two get ready to go.”

So they trio went their separate ways in the house. Ron went to go clean up to meet Luna's father, Hermione went to go change into some “sophisticated” close to see her aunt and uncle, and Harry when to go track down Ginny.

When Harry found her, she was bent over a parchment at her desk, writing slowly. Harry knocked on the open door and leaned against the frame. “So are you going to tell us who you've been writing to?” He asked with a smirk.

Ginny jumped and shoved the letter under a stack of books. Ginny glared for a moment and then relaxed, “If I told you, you'd kill me. And I value my life, so you'll just have to wait.”

“Well he must be someone special, because you write to him everyday, and he writes back to you. So it can't be Dean, he's too much of a git.”

Ginny giggled got off of her desk chair and hopped onto her bed. Harry sat down beside her and said, “Ron and Hermione are both doing something today. Do you want to help me with something?”

Ginny gave Harry a quizzical look. “Help with what?”

Harry smiled and whispered, “I'm going to ask Hermione to marry me.” Ginny gasped and squealed. When she stopped he continued, “And I would like your help to find a ring.”

“Of course!!”

“SHHH!!!!” Harry smiled but hushed her urgently.

“Oh, sorry, Harry.” Ginny whispered again, “When are you going to ask her?”

“I haven't figured that part out yet. I want it to be special, but I'm not sure. I'm going to wait to see if I can talk to your mum about doing something special.”

Ginny nodded. “Well let me just get ready, and I'll be down stairs in 10 minutes. I'll floo Lindsey and see if she can come.”

“Brilliant.” And Harry left the room and walked two doors over to the room he shared with Ron. He saw that Ron had left, but he left a note on Harry's bed.

Mate,

I'm off to Luna's. Mum doesn't know I've left, so if she asks that's where I am. I will be home late, don't wait up. Have fun with Ginny today.

Ron

Harry shook his head and smiled. Then he got on some light Muggle clothes and put on his everyday robes. While he was dressing he was humming to himself, and he didn't even realize that his girlfriend had come into the room until she wrapped her arms around him and kissed his neck. Harry grinned and turned around to cradle her in his arms.

“Are you leaving, love?” Harry asked looking into her chocolate brown eyes.

“Yes, I'm just about to head out.” Hermione stood on her tip-toes and kissed his nose.

“Well do you have someone from the order going with you?” He asked sternly.

Hermione nodded, “I'm bringing Remus. And where are you going today?”

“Ginny and I are going to shop at Diagon Alley, we're leaving soon too.”

“Who's going with you?” Hermione asked.

“Ginny said she was going to floo Lindsey.”

Hermione nodded and pulled him into a stunning kiss. When she finally let go of his lips Harry asked, “What was that for?”

“Just be safe.” Harry wrapped his arms around Hermione and pulled her close to him.

“You too, love.” Hermione kissed his neck in response and then the couple walked downstairs holding hands.

Harry kissed Hermione goodbye, and she walked out the front door with Remus. They were taking a car to her Aunt and Uncles, because they were Muggles. Then Harry walked into the living room to find Ginny and Lindsey waiting by the fire place. Lindsey smiled at Harry, “So you're going to ask her.” Harry nodded and blushed a little. “It's nothing to be ashamed of, Harry. I think it's bloody romantic. I mean you've loved her for two years, and you just want to make her yours permanently. You know she's going to say yes. Well let's go. I've got some things I need for the house, so you two can go to find the ring, and I'll do my shopping.”

The three of them flooed to Diagon Alley. Lindsey went off to do her house shopping, and Ginny and Harry went to Gringotts to get some gold. “How much do you think a ring will cost, Ginny?” Harry asked.

“Well, depends on the ring. But if I know you, and I believe I do, you'll pick out the most expensive accidentally. So I would take 3,000 galleons.” Harry nodded and placed the money into a pouch. He took out several extra for a snack and anything else he saw he might need. So they rode the goblin trolley back out to the lobby of the bank, and exited out to the summer day.

As they were walking, looking for a jewelry store, the two talked and joked. “Remember when mum had her heart set on you marrying me, Harry?” Ginny almost couldn't walk she was laughing so hard. She stopped and wiped her tears and then continued.

Harry chuckled at her and replied, “Yea, wouldn't that had been wonderful.” Ginny smacked him playfully on the arm. “Ow! I was just joking! It doesn't matter anyway; you have your own romance.” Ginny's face turned a deep shade of red. “Don't be ashamed. No matter who it is, for someone to take the time to write to you everyday, he has to feel something toward you.”

“Well, Harry, it's someone you wouldn't expect.” Ginny looked up at him. They had just reached a quaint little jewelry store, and Harry was looking in the window.

He turned to Ginny put an arm around her and said, “No matter who it is, we'll be happy for you, `lil sis.” Ginny grinned broadly, and Harry kissed her hairline.

Then together they walked into the jewelry store. They didn't find anything that they believed would fit Hermione's taste, so they kept looking. It wasn't until the 4^th jewelry store that Harry found the perfect ring. It was sitting in the glass case, next to the other engagement rings, but this one was different. It was brighter, and it stood out among all the rest. It had a square diamond in the center with two tiny rubies on either side of it. It was a 1 karot diamond, and it sat daintily on a gold band.

“Ginny, look at this one.” Ginny walked over to were Harry was standing. His eyes were fixated on the ring.

Ginny smiled and said, “It's beautiful. It will look perfect on her.” She called over the sales clerk. Ginny pulled out a ring from her pocket and gave it to her after pointing to the ring Harry picked out.

“What was that other ring?” Harry asked.

Ginny giggled, “I slipped into Hermione's jewelry box and took a ring so we could have the right size.” Harry grinned at her.

“That was a bloody brilliant.”

“Oh honestly Harry. Every girl knows you need to have the right size for the engagement ring.”

So they bought the ring, and the two went to meet up with Lindsey. They met her by the fountain at the entrance. “How about we get some ice cream before heading back? My treat.” Harry suggested.

“Sure!” the two girls answered. And the three of them made their way to the ice cream parlor.

They sat down on the patio and the waitress took their order. When the ice cream arrived Lindsey couldn't take it any more, “So, Harry lets see the ring!” Harry laughed at took it out of his pocket. He handed it to Lindsey and she opened the box. She looked like Harry was asking her to marry him. Her eyes lit up and she smiled from ear to ear. “That is the most gorgeous ring I have ever seen!”

As they ate they talked so more about how he was going to propose and when he was going to do so. Harry didn't know any more than the two girls across the table from him.

* * *

When they arrived back at Grimmald Place, Hermione was sitting in front of the fire place waiting for them to get back. When Harry tumbled through the fire place she lurched up and pulled him down to sit on the couch. He was coughing from the soot and Hermione had already begun to wipe it off his nose and cheeks.

“Well it's that a warm welcome.” Harry replied sarcastically.

“Oh shut it Harry! I just got back from my aunts and uncles, and I talked to my parents!”

“Oh brilliant, how are they doing?”

“They are great! They invited us to go to New York for a few days before school!” Hermione squealed and clapped her hands.

Harry laughed and replied, “Bloody brilliant, sounds fantastic. When are we leaving?”

“Well we can leave tomorrow morning.”

“Sounds great!”

The rest of the night Hermione and Harry packed and talked with the others about their trip. Ron hadn't arrived home, and probably wouldn't before midnight, so Harry decided to wait up for him tonight. There was so much he needed to tell him.

* * *

At quarter till 1, Ron clambered up the steps and into their bedroom. Harry was sitting up reading Quidditch Through the Ages, and laughed as he entered. Ron's hair was tussled about, and his clothes were wrinkly. He looked happy though.

“I thought I told you not to wait up?” Ron asked changing into his pajamas.

“Yes well, a lot happened today and I wanted to fill you in.” Harry replied closing his book.

“Ahh. Well, do tell.” Ron had gone into the bathroom to brush his teeth and Harry began.

“Well Ginny and I picked out an engagement ring for Hermione today.” Ron stopped brushing his teeth and peaked out the door with his eyebrows raised. Harry nodded.

Ron finished and said, “I thought you were going to wait until the war was over?”

“Yea so did I. But I figure she isn't going to love me any less if we aren't married.” Ron nodded.

“So what else?”

“Well then Hermione got an invite for her and me to go to New York for a few days. We are going to visit her folks. We leave tomorrow morning. I figure I'll ask her father if I can marry her then.”

“Wow! New York! Brilliant! Sounds good, mate.” Ron had pulled the covers up and was lying down in bed, so Harry did the same.

“How did you day go? It looks like it ended well.” Harry chuckled.

Ron grinned and said, “He absolutely loved me! He's a weird guy, but I kept my cool. Then he went out on some expedition, and Luna and I snogged before I came back.”

“Just snogged?” Harry asked.

“Yea, we've only been together for a couple weeks. No need to rush things, mate.” Ron yawned and rolled over. “Night, Harry. Have fun in New York.”

“Thanks Ron. Night.”

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Love Conquers All

Chapter 5:

New York, New York

The building seemed to reach the sky. London didn't have skyscrapers like the ones that lined the streets of New York City. Harry and Hermione had taken a port key from the Ministry early that morning, and now they were in a cab traveling into the heart of New York. Hermione's parents had given her the address of the Dentist office, and they were meeting there before they went to the hotel to settle in. Harry and Hermione gasped at the strange clothes the younger kids of Manhattan were wearing and the amount of people that were walking and driving.

The cab reached the building and it pulled over to let them out. Harry paid the man in Muggle American money, which they exchanged at the American Ministry when they arrived. He gave the man a tip, grabbed the bags from the back of the cab, and they walked into the building. Hermione walked up to the reception desk. “We are meeting Mr. and Mrs. Granger. Can you please tell me where their office is?”

The receptionist smiled and said, “One moment please.” She picked up the telephone in front of her and spoke to someone on the other end. When she placed the phone down she looked up at them and said, “You can leave your bags here, and then go up to the 10^th floor. Follow the signs, and you'll see their office.”

“Thank you very much.” Hermione smiled at her.

The two of them rode the elevator up in silence and grasps hands when they exited it and followed the signs to the office. Hermione opened the door with the name “Dr. Paul Granger and Dr. Jane Granger” and squealed with delight when she saw her mother sorting out some charts. She let go of Harry's hand and flung herself at her mum. Harry couldn't help but laugh.

“Mum! I've missed you!!! Where's dad?” Hermione spoke into her mother's hair.

“Oh Hermione, I've missed you too. Your dad is with patient right now. He will be a little while.” She let go of Hermione and came over to Harry. She gave him a great big hug and said, “Has she been treating you well Harry dear?”

Harry laughed with Hermione and replied, “Only the best, Mrs. Granger.”

Mrs. Granger separated from him and smiled, “Good. I suppose the same goes for you. Well come on. We will wait for Dad in the office. We already cleared the schedule for the afternoon. But we assumed two would want to spend the evening together, seeing we are in New York.” She smiled at the two of them and led them to the office down the hall.

The sat and chatted for a while before Mr. Granger came in. “Dad!” Hermione squeaked before giving him a hug.

“Oh Hermione, how I've missed you!” He said into her hair. Harry smiled. He had never had a great family like Hermione has, and he was glad to share in it now. Harry stood up and shook Mr. Grangers hand before he pulled Harry into a manly hug. “And how are you Harry?” He asked.

“I'm great sir. Thank you for inviting us here.”

“Well it's our pleasure, we thought you could escape the horrors of England for a few days. Plus we wanted to see you before you went off to your last year of school!” He pulled Hermione into a sideways hug. “So are you hungry?”

“Starving!” Harry replied rubbing his stomach.

“Oh honestly Harry. You just ate when we got the Ministry.” Hermione sighed.

“`Mione, that was two hours ago! It's lunch time!” The clock on the desk near them read 11 45.

“Oh very well. Where are we going, Dad?”

“Well you are in America. So you might as well eat American food! How about TGI Fridays, it's our favorite here?” Harry shrugged with Hermione. They had never eaten there, but if the Grangers liked it, he was sure it was good.

The group made their way out into the busy street. They had walked about three blocks when they reached the restaurant. They put their name in and were told it was going to be about a 15 minute wait. So they sat down on the red benches that were their. Harry and Hermione started to look around at all the old American memorabilia that was on the walls. There were guitars and jukeboxes that were lit up and blinking. But there were also millions of posters from bands and old ads pinned up around the restaurant.

When they were seated they continued to look at the old things on the wall. The waiter came and took their drink order. They ordered, and Mr. Granger also ordered a plate of Nachos for an appetizer for them all. With in 5 minutes they nachos were there. The four of them ate and laughed about them being so messy.

“So Harry, tell us what you got for your birthday.” Mrs. Granger spoke up after they had been joking with Hermione about her dainty way to eat a greasy nacho.

“Ahh. Well I got a lot of wizard type things. But I got this watch,” he showed it to the Grangers. “Hermione gave it to me actually. It shows time, and the pictures on it tell me where everyone is. See I can see that Ginny is at the Burrow, Ron is at Grimmald Place, and Hermione is MIA (A/N: for those of you who don't know…it means Missing In Action). Hmm I guess it can't tell where you are if you aren't in London.”

“Wow. That's different. They don't have things like that in our world.”

Harry laughed, “No they don't.”

When the waiter came back, he took their orders for their meals and refilled their drinks. After he left, Hermione and her mother excused themselves to wash their hands in the bathroom. Harry decided this was the time to ask Mr. Granger. But unfortunately as he began to speak, Mr. Granger spoke first.

“I'm very thankful that you were able to accommodate Hermione for those two weeks Harry. It just wasn't possible for us to bring her.”

“Oh it was no trouble at all Mr. Granger.”

“Please, call me Paul, we've known each other for two years. And if I know what your thinking, I'm going to be telling you to call me Dad soon.” His eyes sparkled at Harry, whose mouth hung open.

He quickly shut it and spoke, “Umm…yes sir. Well you know that Hermione and I have been together for two years, and I assure you that I would never hurt her. I would like nothing better in this world, besides the downfall of Voldemort, to be by your daughter's side until we die. I would like to ask you if I could take her hand in marriage.” Harry breathed a sigh of relief that it was over.

“Harry, you didn't even have to ask. I know that she loves her, and it's apparent to me, and has been for sometime, that you love her as well. I couldn't ask for a better candidate for son-in-law. Of course I will allow it, and I'll do you one better. You have my and her mothers blessing.” Mr. Granger stood up and gave Harry a hug. “Welcome to the family, Son.” Harry smiled and sat down with so much relief. “Oh come now Harry. It wasn't that scary was it?”

“What wasn't scary?” Hermione asked as she sat down.

Mr. Granger smiled and replied, “Harry was just telling in more detail the time he saw you as a cat.”

Hermione reached over and hit Harry's shoulder, “Ow! It was scary, very scary!” They all laughed at this and soon after their food arrived. The rest of the meal the couple chatted with the Grangers about the upcoming school year, the house they have been staying in, and a lot about how Ron was doing. The left TGI Friday's around 1 30 and headed back to the Hotel that Hermione and Harry were staying in. They had not made the reservations, so they had no clue where it was or how nice it was.

The hotel was called the Ramada Inn. It looked small and old from the outside but when you entered into it, the designing was new and sleek. They checked in and found their room. The Grangers followed them up to help them get settled. They traveled the elevator up 15 stories and found the room marked, “1510.” It was a corner room and when they stepped inside Hermione fell in love with it. It was bright, because it had a window the stretched the length of one wall. There were two rooms, not including the bathroom. One had a queen size bed and TV, and the other had a TV and a couch. The bathroom was brilliant. It had a Jacuzzi bath and a shower nozzle in it. The sink and bath were marble and there was a mirror that stretched the length of the wall.

Harry turned to the Grangers and said, “This is too much, we are only staying for three nights.”

Mr. Granger shook his head and replied, “Nothing is too much for family.” He winked at Harry and said they'd meet them here at 5 tomorrow to bring them to dinner. Then the Grangers left, leaving Harry and Hermione to unpack and get acquainted with the hotel and room.

Once they had unpacked, Hermione decided to go for a swim. Her and Harry both changed into their swim suits. But when Hermione went to the pool, Harry said he was going to make plans for tonight and went off to the concierge's desk. Harry stood at the desk, waiting patiently for the young woman to get of the phone. Her name tag read “Jackie.” When she finally hung up she smiled up at him and said, “How can I help you sir?”

“Well I'm looking for a really nice restaurant for tonight.”

“Ahh. From England are you?” Harry nodded. “I here it's really rainy there. Is that true?”

Harry smiled, “Depends on the season really.”

She smiled back, “I see. So what kind of restaurant are you looking for?”

“No place with foreign food. It's the first time we have come to America and my girlfriend really wants to experience it.”

“Hmm. Ok.” Jackie typed some things into her computer, then looked up. “Tavern on the Green. It's a beautiful restaurant in the center of Central park. If you want I can set up a horse and buggie ride after your dinner?”

“Horse and buggie?” Harry asked.

“It's a Horse drawn carriage. The driver will bring you all around the park and drop you off in front of the restaurant again.”

Harry smiled, “Perfect. How should we dress?”

“Well, you will have to be in a jacket and tie; she will have to be in a dress.” Harry nodded. He thanked Jackie, told her to make reservations for 6, and then headed for the pool. He and Hermione swam and flirted in the pool for about two hours. Then, around 4 they decided to get out and go back upstairs.

When they got back in the room, Harry took his leave to the bathroom. He took a long shower, trying to shake the chill of the pool. When he got out there was a message written in the steam on the mirror. It read, I love you. He smiled, even though no one could see. He toweled off his body and hair, slipped into some boxers he had brought in, and went to tell Hermione he loved her too.

She was watching TV lying on the bed. She was eating some chocolate she had bought before they left, and she was still wrapped in her towel. Her hair was tangled and a mess, hanging just below her shoulders. Harry leaned against the wall and just looked at her. She didn't look up from her TV show, but she knew he was there. She loved that he just liked to look at her.

“You're beautiful, Hermione.” She finally turned her head and gave him the You-are-too-sweet look. He crawled across the bed and kissed her neck. Then he whispered, “I love you too” in her ear. She kissed him on the lips, smiled and then got up to take a shower.

Harry finished getting dressed in a crisp navy blue suit that he conjured up. He wore a identical matching shirt, and a white tie. Then he styled his hair with a new spell he had learned from Wizard Wireless. Then he conjured up a stunning maroon dress that was Hermione's size. He added perfectly matching heels and a dainty purse to go with it. He laid them on the made bed, and then conjured up a quill and parchment. On the paper he wrote:

Hermione,

I will be awaiting your arrival in the lobby. I hope you like the dress; I thought it would look stunning on you. Get ready for a night of romance.

Your love,

Harry

He placed the note on top of the dress and exited the room. When he reached the elevator he stood there tapping his shoe for it to arrive. Soon the bell dinged and Harry stepped inside the carpeted elevator. Once enclosed and alone he conjured up a single red rose. When he reached the lobby, he sat down on one of the couches that were in the middle. He sat for almost a half hour before he heard the clicking of high heeled shoes behind him. He smiled to himself and then stood and turned around.

She was stunning. Her long curls cascaded down the side of her neck, and shaped her round face. The dress Harry had conjured hugged her curvy shape perfectly, accenting everything that needed to be. It hung low on her chest, but not low enough to keep your mind from guessing. Even though the high heels were about 3 inches, Hermione was still a good 4 inches shorter than Harry. He stepped closer to her, handed her the rose, kissed her cheek, and then whispered in her ear.

“You look absolutely brilliant.”

“Thank you love, you look dashing yourself.” She said returning his kiss. “This dress is beautiful.”

“Ahh. But the beauty is the one who is wearing it.” Harry replied. Hermione blushed as Harry slid a hand to the small of her back and guided her to the door.

It was very warm, seeing it was an early August night. They had the doorman hail a cab for them, and they rode in silence to the restaurant. When the arrived, Harry paid the driver, and got out, lending a hand to Hermione for to follow. She gasped at the beauty of Tavern on the Green. It was quite stunning. It was dark out, and the dark green awning was lit with small white lights. Beautiful summer flowers traced the path way to the restaurant, and wonderfully romantic music played lightly in the air.

Harry wrapped Hermione's hand in the crook of his elbow and led the way to the door. He opened the door for her saying, “My Lady.” She giggled and walked through the door. At the Hostess desk, Harry checked in, and the couple was immediately sat at a small table over looking the pond in central park.

The scene was beautiful. More white lights were set up along the pond's edges and there reflection twinkled in the water. In the center of the pond, a small gazebo stood with lights all around it and dazzling flowers surrounding it. Several couples were in paddle boats, one couple was in the gazebo cuddling close, and another where lying on a blanket on the ponds bank, staring at the stars.

“This is exquisite Harry.”

“Nothing but the best for you `Mione.”

The waiter came and the two ordered their drinks for the evening. And they talked lightly over the bread. Then the two ordered their meals and some more drinks. A violinist came to the table and said, “For the romantic couple.” Then he started to play an Italian ballad, like you would hear on a gondola. Harry smiled at the man, and took Hermione's hand. She mouthed “I love you” to him, and lightly brushed her thumb over his knuckles. When the violinist was finished, Harry gave him two dollars and a gracious thank you. Hermione praised his ability, and the man went along to serenade the next couple.

Then their dinner came, and the two talked about the deliciousness of their food. “This fillet rivals anything Mrs. Weasley could cook up.” Harry spoke up after swallowing a bit of steak. Hermione giggle and pointed to her salmon with her fork.

“This is the best bit of salmon I have ever eaten.” Harry smiled at his lovely soon-to-be fiancé.

“I'm glad you are enjoying yourself tonight Hermione.”

“Oh Harry, this is so romantic. This is a wonderful night.” Harry smiled at her and continued to eat his meal. When they finished, the waiter took away their plates.

“I'll leave you two with the dessert menu. I'll come back soon if you would like anything.” Hermione smiled and thanked the man, then read the menu.

“Actually, Harry. I'm not really in the mood for dessert right now. Why don't we just order something when we get back to the room?” She asked him looking up questioningly.

“Whatever you like, love. This is your night.” Hermione smiled, and Harry summoned the waiter over to ask him for the check.

After Harry had paid the check, he stood up and pulled Hermione's chair out for her. Then the two walked outside. It had chilled some since they had arrived two hours prior, but it was still quite warm out. At the end of the walkway, the horse and buggie stood waiting for them. Harry nodded at the driver, and then looked at Hermione.

“Fancy a ride around the park, love?”

“Oh Harry, that would be brilliant!” The driver hopped down from his seat and helped Harry and Hermione into the buggie. Harry grabbed the plaid blanket that he had told the driver to place in the back and laid it over the two of them. Hermione smiled at him and then looked all around at the beauty of Central Park at night. Harry nervously felt the ring in his jacket pocket. She's not going to say no, Harry thought, she loves me. Right? Oh Honestly Harry, of course she does. Harry chuckled out loud at his stupidity.

“What's so funny Harry?”

“Nothing, love. Everything's absolutely perfect.”

The drove around the park a little more until Harry could see the main fountain coming up. He turned to Hermione, took her hands and said, “Hermione Jane Granger, you are everything to me. You are the sunlight in my day, and the twinkling stars in my night. You make me surpass happiness every time you smile, and when you laugh I feel as though I could never be sad. I could not imagine a day with out seeing your dark brown eyes twinkling at me. I want to be the one who holds you up when you are weak, and the one who wakes you up every morning. `Mione,” She was crying now, and he took out the ring, and opened the box, “would you do me the honor by becoming my wife?”

All she could do was nod. Her tears over came her voice, and all she could do was smile and nod. She opened her mouth to say, “Of course!” but nothing came out. Harry grinned and slipped the beautiful ring on to her finger. Then he kissed her lightly on the lips and drew her into a bone crushing hug. “I love you so much Harry James Potter.” She managed to squeak out.

The spent the rest of the ride around the park kissing and cradling each other. They were getting married. Hermione was the happiest girl in the world at that very minute, and she knew she would for the rest of her life. When they arrived at the restaurant again, Harry climbed out of the buggie first, and then extended his hand for his fiancé. He grabbed one of the numerous cabs that were lined up by the entrance after he tipped the buggie driver. Then he and Hermione drove home whispering words of love and desire in each others ear.

When they arrived at the hotel they ran to the elevator. Once the doors were closed Harry wrapped his arms around her, and pulled her into a passionate, fiery kiss. Hermione's hands instantly went around his neck and she gave just as much emotion back into the kiss. When they arrived on the 15^th floor the separated from the kiss with reluctance and briskly walked to their room. After kicking off their shoes, Harry immediately pulled her to the bathroom and began to fill up the Jacuzzi, with bubbles. He conjured up dozens of candles and lined the bathroom with them. He turned off the electrical lights, and took Hermione in his arms.

“You have made me the luckiest man alive, Hermione.” He captured her lips once again, but this time the kiss was slow and romantic. He slipped off the shoulder straps of her dress and kissed her silky skin. She moaned quietly from the warmth of his lips. Harry traced his hands down her arms and his kisses up her neck to her ear. He stopped and whispered, “You mean more to me than life itself.” The he nibbled on her ear and traced it with his tongue.

As he was doing this, Hermione was slipping off his jacket and untying his tie. She started to unbutton his shirt as he once again claimed her lips, this time slipping his tongue into her mouth. Once all the buttons were undone she ran her hands up his abs, across his chest, and down his arms, pushing his blue shirt off his body. Hermione kissed his neck and chest as he reached behind her and unzipped her dress. The silky material fluttered to the floor leaving Hermione in her black lace thong.

“Well, I didn't pick that out.” Harry stated shocked.

Hermione smiled, “No, I chose this one my own. But I'm guessing you are a fan.”

“Yes, love, definitely a fan.” He chuckled and ran his hands down her sides and then to her ass. He pulled her to him and kissed her passionately. The tub was half full now, so Hermione started to unzip Harry's pants. And with a small little tug, they joined her dress on the tile floor. He stood, kissing her neck, in his black cotton boxers that clearly showed his excitement. Hermione ran her fingers along the elastic waist band of his boxers, and he moaned in anticipation. Slowly she pulled his boxers over his hips and ass, and they too lay at his feet.

Harry got to his knees and kissed along her stomach, pulling her lacey thong down as he made his way down her body. Teasing her, Harry only kissed her inner thighs and abs. She moaned in frustration, and Harry stood up once her panties were on the floor. Harry stood up and kissed her lips, then stepped into the steaming bath. He sat down and held out his hand for her to join him. She stepped in and sat down in front of him, leaning against his stomach. She nuzzled her head into the crook of his neck, and sighed in contentment. Hermione could feel his want for her on her back. She reached behind his head and ran her fingers through his hair. Harry cupped her breast and massaged it. After a while, his hands traced her body and teased her some more.

They continued in this fashion, teasing each other off and on for nearly an hour, when they couldn't take it anymore. Hermione had turned around and kissed Harry with so much fire, he couldn't wait any longer. He broke of the kiss from Hermione, grabbed his wand, and preformed a drying charm on the bathroom. The water in the Jacuzzi instantly disappeared; the two naked bodies were dry as well. Harry scooped Hermione up, and walked out to the bed. He pulled back the covers and placed Hermione on the bed. Then he climbed in the bed, and the two lovers passionately made love all night.

* * *

The next morning to two days were filled with tours and museums. They were both excited on seeing the city. The two days they spent touring the city, it was 85 degrees and beautiful. The trip was mainly for Hermione, who was truly excited about seeing the history of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Empire State Building, the beauty of Trump Tour, and the excitement of Times Square. The days were spent walking, driving, or taking the subway from one side of the city to the next. Miraculously, the couple never got lost.

It was a great feeling to be free in America. There was no threat of Voldemort in the States, as there was in Europe. Sure, they had heard about him, and the American Ministry had sent countless Aurors to help in the effort, but Voldemort never terrorized America like he did Europe. Harry loved the feeling of not needing to look over his shoulder every few feet, or have to fend of the hording girls who knew who he was. He was in Muggle America, however. He asked himself countless times why he didn't just get up and move to America, to avoid all the problems in his life. But looking at Hermione's smile and thinking of Ron, and the Weasley's, he knew he couldn't turn his back on his world.

At 4 o'clock on their last day in the city, they retired to the hotel after a long day of museum hunting and shopping. They had managed to get a gift for every member of the Weasley family, down to the expected baby of Bill and Patty. Hermione had stopped at FAO Swartz and ooed and ahhed over the baby toys, she spent an hour just picking out the baby's gift. Harry knew that she would be an excellent mother, and he couldn't wait to experience that with her. They had also got a gift for Remus and Luna. Then the couple went to several clothing stores for Hermione, and Harry gave her no limit, which probably wasn't a wise thing to do. When they returned to the room, Harry looked as though he would fall over from all the bags he was carrying. So instead of just putting them down gently, he dropped them, and got a hard smack on the arm from Hermione.

“What if you broke something?” She quickly conjured up another trunk and shrunk all the gifts to fit inside.

Then the two of them got ready for dinner with her parents. They were planning on going to their new apartment for dinner, because the previous night they had went out to celebrate the engagement. So the two of them dressed in jeans and nice shirts, and they met Mr. and Mrs. Granger in the lobby. They traveled to their apartment by taxi. It was in the upper east side of Manhattan, and it was in a beautiful building. When Hermione entered it she was immediately in love with it.

“It's nothing like home, but it's beautiful.” There were two bedrooms, a living room, a formal dining room, and a kitchen with an island counter top to eat breakfast and such. It was truly a gorgeous apartment. Mrs. Granger and Hermione made dinner while Harry and Mr. Granger talked about sports, Quidditch and football (which Harry had recently gotten into, thanks to Dean.).

When dinner was ready they sat in the dining room and chatted about plans for the wedding. Hermione and Harry had talked about it a little but not much.

“Actually, Mrs. Granger, we haven't talked about it all that much. We thought-” Harry started but was interrupted by Mrs. Granger.

“Oh honestly Harry. You are going to marry our daughter. It's time you start to call us Paul and Jane.”

Harry smiled. “Alright, Jane. Um so as I was saying, we were going to wait to decide, because we don't have the slightest clue.”

They chatted about what style dress Hermione wanted. Her mother was so excited about the wedding. She did express concern about them being so young, Hermione wasn't even turning 17 for another week. But Harry and Hermione put the concern to hush when they explained that in the Wizarding world it wasn't rare to see students going into their 7^th year at Hogwarts become engaged. The rest of the night went without hitch. They said their goodbyes at the end of the evening.

“You two take care.” Jane said. “Study hard, kids. And you take care of her Harry. We trust you with our little girl. We love you both so much.” She was tearing up when she pulled the two of them into a hug. When she let go she stood back, and they said goodbye to Paul.

“Yes. Harry, take care of Hermione. I know of this Voldemort character, so watch out for her.”

“I won't let anything happen to her, sir.” He shook Paul's hand and then they hugged briefly.

After, he hugged his little girl tight. “Congratulations Princess. I love you.”

Then they waved goodbye and walked down to the street. Hermione had tears in her eyes, and Harry hugged her tight with his arm around her. The next day they would go home, to their home.

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