Do You Believe in Magic?

Little_Katie_Bug09

Rating: PG13
Genres: Romance
Relationships: Harry & Hermione
Book: Harry & Hermione, Books 1 - 6
Published: 02/11/2005
Last Updated: 17/12/2005
Status: completed

A/U Fic. Harry Potter: Savior, idol, millionare. Hermione Granger: poor Muggle waitress. Can these two unlikely people find love despite their differences? Will she believe Harry's magical secret? R&R and Find out!

Chapters

1. Walking Through the Park

2. Falling Head Over Heels

3. Beauty and the Bozo

4. I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends

5. With All My Heart

6. Meeting Harry's Mates/So Close to Heaven

7. Winter Wonderland/Comfort and Joy

8. Do You Believe in Magic?

9. Sacrifice for You/ I Believe

10. Happily Ever After

1. Walking Through the Park

A/N: I don't own any of this. Nope. Nada. Zip. Sue me if you must, but all you'll get is $1.72 and a mint mocha frapuccino.

A/U fic; Can the savior of the wizarding world find true love with a muggle waitress? Will she believe in his magical world? Find out!

Chapter 1

Harry Potter's life was living proof that you could have all that life could give without being truly happy. Having saved the wizarding world from Voldemort during the Final Battle, he was given anything his heart desired. Harry owned a huge castle in the countryside of London, two limos, an exotic animal menagerie, and the most advanced gaming electronic system of all time. Since his defeat of the Dark Lord, he had had more girlfriends than he could count, but he had never felt like himself around him. Many of the girls only wanted him for his sex or his money, but he had never truly loved any of them. Truthfully, despite all that he owned, he was still lonely and saving his first kiss for the one girl who would truly set him free from the captivity he had placed upon himself.

Although everybody in the Wizarding World knew Harry, no one even knew his name in the muggle world. On days when he was feeling especially confined by his life, he would don street clothes and go out to explore muggle London. When he was on London's streets, he could blend in with the crowd and not be given more than a passing glance. The women that he saw didn't see him as a god of their world but as a normal 21 year old, very attractive man. He had come close to asking one or two muggle women out, until they saw the thin lighting bolt scar on his forehead. They often stared only at his forehead during conversations and rushed away soon after.

Tired of his lack of social activities, Harry decided to go for a walk in the park on a cool, crisp October day. He wrapped up in a long, black woolen coat and carefully placed a scarf around his neck. As he walked down the worn trails, he took the time to look at his surroundings. The tall trees waved their slender branches in the breeze as squirrels scurried about. The birds were filling the air with their song. A young couple was holding hands and waltzing slowly along, lost in their love. As Harry viewed the two teenage lovers, a pain of longing entered his heart and chilled him to the bones. He shuddered and wrapped his coat more tightly around him before sitting down at the nearest bench.

As he sat and watched the birds flit about in the park fountain, Harry felt his loneliness increase. Merlin, he thought, Send me a miracle. As he thought these words he felt the presence of somebody in front of him. Harry looked up and saw that a woman was watching him curiously. His heart began to pound as he examined her and saw her beauty.

At about 5'8", she had a soft look about the apparent curves of her body, carefully covered by a long, slimming gray wool coat. Her bushy hair was pulled into a tight bun at the nape of her neck, but long curly tendrils seemed to escape the clip. She had warm honey brown eyes and a smile just behind her lips. She looked him straight in the eye and gave him a little smile.

"Excuse me, but you seem to have dropped this." She held up his long black scarf in her small-gloved hand. He raised his hand to his neck and noticed his scarf's absence. She sat on the bench beside him and wrapped the scarf around his neck. "So, what brings you out here on such a frigid day?" Harry's heart pounded at her sweet voice.

"Oh, just gettin' away from the world. I'm Harry, by the way."

She laughed. "Hello, Harry-by-the-way. I'm Hermione Granger. Nice to meet you." Harry shook her hand, all the while wishing he could get to know this stranger better. Why on earth would I want to know her? She's a complete stranger who just happened to find my scarf! No mystery, no nothing-I'll probably never see her again! She looked into his deep emerald eyes before standing up abruptly. "Well, it was nice meeting you Harry, but I've got to go. I can't be late for work. I'm sure our paths will cross again." She walked away from Harry down the path towards the street. As Harry watched her walk away, his heart pounded as he felt a strange feeling that something crucial just happened in his life.

******* *******

Life was not a bed of roses; Hermione Granger had learned that long ago. Life was cruel, and sadly there was no such thing as fairy godmothers, magic wands, or happily ever afters. Her father had abandoned her and her mother, Milea Hooper-Granger. Hermione had grown up on her mother's amazing tales of fairies, wizards, witches, and all sorts of magical things. But when Milea lost her battle with leukemia three years ago, Hermione had realized life wasn't as magical as Milea made it out to be. Milea's death left her penniless and alone at the time she needed money the most. Before Milea had died, Hermione had been a perfect student with dreams of traveling far away to study in the most elite academies. Now, at 21, her dreams were shattered as she made her living working at the Bison Witch Café.

The cold, crisp air rushed into the little bistro as Hermione stepped inside. The bell hanging on the door announced her presence and a short, slim middle-aged lady with jet-black hair soon greeted her, running from the kitchen area. Melba Anders was Hermione's only true friend. Despite her young age, Melba had taken Hermione under her wing and treated her as a surrogate daughter and employee at her café.

“Hermione, where have you been, dearie? It's a quarter to eight already, and you know The Bison Witch opens at eight A.M. sharp!”

Hermione gave a little smile at Melba's motherly chiding. “Sorry, Melba. See, I decided to take a little walk in the park before coming to work, and I would have been here on time, but I stopped to, uh, appreciate my surroundings, and I saw this guy drop his scarf and I had to pick it up and when I returned it, oh Melba! I saw his eyes; he has that same aura about him that my mother did! Like he knows a secret that you'll never know, but when you're with him you know you'll be safe forever, and you know the strangest thing about him? He has a scar shaped like a lightning bolt right in the middle of his forehead, yet it didn't disfigure him, it made him look…handsome.”

Melba gave a little chuckle. “Excuses, excuses. So, was it love at first sight, m'dear?”

Hermione gave Melba a death glare. “Of course not. You know that I've given up on the entire male race. Now, if you'll excuse me…” She pushed past Melba and went into the back of the café to avoid letting Melba see the tears forming in her eyes. Certainly she could never trust another guy. How could she have fooled herself? The only thing that her many dates had ever given her was heartbreak and pain. Men made her feel worthless; she would never let another one into her life.

“Mom,” she whispered. “I know you can hear me. I'm so sorry, Mom, sorry that I'll never be half the girl you wanted me to be. Merlin, if there's any hope in the world for me to have more to life than just a waitressing job at a coffee shop, give me a sign.” She wiped her eyes and laughed at her silliness, offering up a hope to that imaginary god of Milea's stories. She pulled off her coat, grabbed her waist apron, and tied it around her as she rushed to the dining area to set up for the day.

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2. Falling Head Over Heels

Disclaimer: Yup, none of this is mine. Sue me, I don't care one bit.

A/N: Here's Chapter 2, hope ya like it! Please R&R! Sorry it's been a while. Oh, BTW, if I got the coffee terms wrong, sorry. I'm not a big coffee drinker; I just obsess over frappacino's! Lol

Chapter 2

As Harry continued his stroll through muggle London, he found himself standing in front of a small one-story brick bistro called The Bison Witch Café. He found himself unable to resist a laugh at the cartoon drawing of a buffalo with a pointed hat and cape flying on an enchanted broomstick against the starry-black window front. If only the creator of this drawing really knew… He shook his head and laughed again, wondering what his best mate, Ronald Weasley would say. Deciding to take a break from the cold wind (and get some caffeine), Harry pushed open the door of the Bison Witch. The door jangled and the small dining area buzzed with the noise of the many customers who were happily sipping their cups of coffee. He saw another sign with the flying bison that said, “Come in and seat yourself!” He looked around until he found a small, round table in the back corner of the restaurant. Not caring that his selected table was right by the kitchen, he draped his coat on the chair and sat down, waiting for a waiter to come and give him a menu.

Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Hermione had just looked up and seen the new customer entering into the café. As she gasped at the realization of seeing him again, her face flushed a crimson flow. As dumb luck would have it, Melba entered the kitchen at the exact moment, and, upon noticing Hermione's face, began to question her.

“Love, what's wrong? You only get that look when you're absolutely mortified or just being shy.”

Hermione gave a nervous giggle. “Do you see that man over there? The one in the corner?”

“You mean that really handsome one?”

“Yeah.” Hermione gave a sigh. He's the reason that I was late for work today.”

Melba grinned with this new understanding. “Well, dearie! I personally believe in love at first sight, and I believe Eros and Cupid are dancing on Mt. Olympus at the fact that he's right here right now.” She jumped out of the way of Hermione, who was trying to pop her with a dishtowel, and continued. “Now, I know you may be a bit reserved, but you're the only waitress we got, so you best get your bum out there and do your job. Go on now, get!” She gave a Hermione a little shove and watched as the girl walked slowly towards the table with her pad of paper.

Hermione was not enjoying Melba's watchful eye. It was hard enough walking to this Harry's table without the glare of her boss. She watched him as he sat at the table looking out the window, lost in his thoughts. The way that his messy black hair fell over his forehead made her heart pitter.

Shaking her head to clear that new thought. She approached his table while looking at her feet.

“Welcome to the Bison Witch Café! What can I get you this morning?”

Harry stared at the waitress in amazement. Whoa, is that the Hermione I met in the park this morning?!? How odd that she works here, even stranger is how I was drawn to this place!

“Uhh, Hermione, is that you?” She looked up, as if caught before giving a broad smile!

“Why, it's Harry-by-the-way! I knew our paths would cross again! Nice seeing you, this time with your scarf! What would you like me to get you?”

Harry smiled at the beautiful waitress. “I'll have a cappucino, please.” She jotted his order down and scurried off to the kitchen. Harry watched her walk away, intrigued by her, yet not knowing why. He could sense a mystery about her, a mystery he wanted to discover. He shook his head to get rid of his thoughts and turned to once again look out the window.

Meanwhile in the kitchen, Hermione was trying to force her nerves to calm as she poured Harry's cup of coffee. Granger, get a grip! It's not that weird that he's here! I mean, come on! It's just a café! Everyone loves the Bison Witch! Yeah, that's it. I'll never see him again after I give him this coffee! She grabbed a complimentary “London's Best” Bison Witch crumpet and placed it on the saucer before carefully placing the steaming cup beside it.

“Ooh! Hermione, I see your future husband wants coffee!” Hermione shot a death glare at Melba before picking up the tray and heading for the dining area. She made it a point to greet each dining person whose table she passed. Melba had always told her that the way to make a customer return was to make them feel welcome. It was a good thing that Hermione was a people person, or else she would never have been so successful at her job.

Soon she was right near Harry's table. She was planning on just coolly placing his coffee down and going on about her job, but plans often have a funny way of not working out perfectly. She felt her shoelace tug and watched almost in slow motion as her tray arched slowly through the air. The steaming coffee splashed all over his sweater as she fell towards him, tripping over her own feet. Harry reached out and caught Hermione, mere seconds before her skull crashed into the tiled floor.

For a few moments that seemed like hours to Hermione, everything went silent. She was being held in Harry's arms, and his piercing green eyes were looking right through her. She noticed that the part of his chest that her hand was resting on was abnormally warm from the spilled coffee. He gave a little grin and pulled her hair from her eyes to behind her ear. As the café customers diverted their attention from the fall and began to speak again, Hermione gave a little gasp.

“Oh my… I mean… OH!” She pushed away from Harry and ran into the kitchen with embarrassed tears in her eyes. The customers once again looked at Harry in surprise. He slowly got up from his crouched position on the floor and walked to the counter where Melba was standing. He knew that his face was flushed from all the attention he was getting, but he just ignored the stare of the crowd.

Melba spoke first. “Sir, I'm so sorry about what just happened. Here, let me give you your money back and…” Harry placed his hand on the counter to interrupt.

“No, really, it's alright! You don't need to pay me. Just please tell Hermione that I'm sorry about what just happened. Good day.” With that final word, he turned towards the door and walked out of the Bison Witch Café.

*** *** *** *** ***

As Harry watched Ron's face turn as red as his hair with laughter, he wished that he had never told him of his experience at the Bison Witch. At 6'2” with bright red hair and freckles, Ron was Harry's best friend despite his extreme immaturity, but today he was going way too far. He beat Harry's kitchen table with his fists as he howled with laughter. Harry gave him a little scowl as he proceeded to attempt charming the coffee stain off his sweater with a tricky little spell.

“So, there goes your chance with that girl! Mate, stick with the witches.”

“Really, Ron! She's different from all the other girls!”

Ron snorted. “And how do you know?”

“I don't. I just feel it. I see so much about her through her actions, her eyes…”

“Well, it's not as though you're going back there. You'll never see her again.”

Harry looked at him, surprised. “What do you mean? Who said I'd never see her again?”

Ron looked at him, baffled. “You mean you're going back to the Bison Witch?”

“Maybe. Would you like to join me for coffee tomorrow?”

A/N: Uh-Oh! Ron's going with Harry for coffee! This could be trouble! Poor Hermione…

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3. Beauty and the Bozo

A/N: Okay, here's the third chapter! Let's all watch as Ron makes an absolute fool of himself! *wink, wink *

Chapter 3

Harry knew bringing Ron with him to the Bison Witch Café was a huge mistake as soon as they walked up to the café front. With one look at the cartoon buffalo on a broomstick, he began to burst into hysterics. Turning redder than ever from lack of air, Ron could only sputter incomprehensible words. Harry rolled his eyes.

“Listen, mate. Maybe it was a bad idea bringing you here. Let's just take you back to the Burrow and-“ Ron shut up immediately.

“No, I'm not going anywhere. I'm here to support you, Harry. I swear that I won't embarrass you or anything. ” Opening the door, he ushered Harry in as he groaned inwardly. What had he gotten himself into?!? Not only was Ron going to possibly ruin any chance he had with this Hermione, he also refused to dress as a normal muggle. He looked absolutely mental in his big purple galoshes, white linen gloves, pajama bottoms with the Trix Rabbit on them, a big hat with a chicken on it, and a tweed raveled overcoat. Oh, yeah. He certainly didn't stand out. As they walked through the dining area, all eyes turned towards them. Ron didn't seem to notice the attention he was getting, at first. He talked to Harry, chattering up a storm about meaningless things, until he saw a man in his early thirties staring at him. Harry tried to stop him from doing anything stupid, but it was too late.

Ron jumped towards the staring man. “What-what are you looking at, do you not like the way I look?” He pushed his table, almost over. “Stop staring at me or I'll beat you up, you bas-“ Harry jumped behind Ron and grabbed his arms to keep him from punching the man.

“Sir, I'm so, so sorry about my friend here, he's a bit hot-tempered. Excuse us, I'm so sorry, sir, beg your pardon.” He grabbed Ron and physically forced him to a table far in the back of the café, away from peering eyes. He thrust Ron into a chair and glared at him murderously.

“What are you doing? You can't just go into a muggle café and pick a fight with someone just because they're staring at you! It's not that poor man's fault that you're dressed like Bozo the Clown! Get a grip on yourself and—Ron!” As Harry talked, Ron's head lolled to the side in an undeniable sleep. “What's wrong with you?”

Ron jerked awake and grinned sheepishly. “Well, I just might have had a firewhiskey or two before meeting you, but—“

“Ron, how much did you have to drink?”

“Oh, only a bottle…or two…Nothing bad!” Harry slapped his hand to his forehead in disgust.

“Great, not only do you make a fool of yourself, but you're also drunk on firewhiskey. Could this idea of mine be any worse?”

Ron just looked at him with a confused look on his face. “You know, Hair-ee, your eyes light up real pretty when you're angry.” Harry just looked at him, choosing to let that comment slide as Ron burst into giggles—again. Trying to ignore his mate's insanity, Harry casually looked around the dining area, looking for the elusive Hermione. Where could she be? She was the only one in here yesterday… I hope she didn't get fired for what happened yesterday. Just as he was about to admit to himself that she probably wasn't there, he caught a glimpse of a petite, bushy haired brunette. He couldn't help the smile that spread on his face at her appearance. Although she was clearly dressed for business, she looked somewhat elegant, with a look of grace and humor right behind her smile. Her hair was pulled back in a messy ponytail, and it bounced from side to side as she scurried about from table to table.

Harry didn't even realize he was staring until her gaze caught his. He looked away sheepishly and felt his face blush as she came towards his table. Everything's going to be perfect this time, he thought right as Ron belched loud enough to shake the rafters. Oh, crap.

“Hey, Harry, Harry's friend. Nice to see you here again.” She gave Harry a little smile, ignoring the big lump of red and gas at the other end of the table.

“Same to you, Hermione. This is my, er, my friend Ron, and he…” His “friend” quickly interrupted him.

“Dang, Harry! Now I see why you want to do her so badly! She's hot!” He looked to Hermione who was turning beet red and said, “You're a real pretty ladee.” Hermione looked at him in disgust and embarrassment.

“OH, Hermione, I'm sorry for Ron, you must excuse him. He had a little too much whiskey before we came and—“

Ron jumped up on top of the table. “Firewhiskey rules!” Hermione looked at him in surprise.

“Firewhiskey?”

“Hell yeah!”

“That was something that was in one of my mother's stories! She told me this one story about a magically tavern in a wizards world. She said that they had “firewhiskey” so strong that a normal man could drink it and shoot flames out his nose! How, pray tell, did you ever hear about firewhiskey?”

Harry had to remind himself to hex Ron into oblivion later.

“Uhh, he just, well, That's what he calls it when he gets completely, stone-cold, drunk. Please excuse him, he's normally the nicest person you could ever meet!” Hermione smirked at Harry's embarrassment.

Ron just had to speak up again. “I bet your mother was a real, live, witch. Did she have any broomsticks that she flew about on?” To Ron, this was a compliment; to Hermione's world it was an insult.

“You are the most horrible, vile man ever! My mother was the best most wonderful person who ever lived and I am proud to be her daughter! How dare you come here to make a fool of yourself and insult me!” She brought the tray she was carrying down hard on his head. The sound of skull hitting board resonated throughout the restaurant and caused a heavy silence. Ron looked at the waitress in dumb amazement before falling in a dead faint to the table. Harry stared at the scene before him. Ron, the biggest prat of all time, had just destroyed any chance he would possibly ever have with Hermione. She turned to Harry and her eyes showed repentance.

“Oh, Harry, I'm so sorry, but he really is horrid! I would love to have you here, but would you please get him out of here?!?”

Harry looked at her remorsefully. “Here, I'll take him to his house and be back here in about fifteen minutes. I really would like to try some Bison Witch coffee, eventually.” She blushed and then gave a giggle.

“Okay, take your drunk bastard friend home and when you return, a cup of coffee will be waiting for you.” Harry gave her a little salute with his fingers and advanced to drag his friend away. He took him out into the alley and apparated them both to Ron's flat. He heaved him onto the couch and spread him out. Harry slapped Ron in the face, but he was out cold. Not really caring, he apparated back to the place he had just left. It was time for the third try.

When he stepped back into the Bison Witch, he realized that the restaurant was vacant. True to her word, though, Hermione sat at Harry's table with two cups of coffee. He advanced towards her and gave her a little grin.

“I'm so sorry about that…”

“It's okay. After yesterday, I'd say we're about even. Were you able to get the stain out?”

“Oh, yeah. I just used a little char--, uh I mean Cheer on it. Man, that is some good laundry detergent to use on stains!” He forced a laugh, hoping she hadn't caught his near slip. She looked at him doubtfully.

“Right. Oh, yeah, can I ask you something else?”

“Fire away.”

“Okay. What is this about you wanting to, uh, “do me”?' She laughed as Harry turned the color or a Macintosh apple. “I'm just kidding, Harry.”

“Good. I promise you I'm not that kinda guy.”

“I didn't think you were. I could tell you were by, well don't think I'm crazy, but I could tell you were one of a kind by the look in your eyes. You have very beautiful eyes, by the way.”

“Thanks. They're my mother's. She and my father both died when I was really little.”

“I'm sorry.”

“Oh, it's okay, I guess. I don't really remember them. Sometimes I just wish that they were here to see me, though.”

Hermione gave a sigh as she cupped her coffee mug. “ I know how you feel. My father left my mother and I when I was really young. I never knew him, but I was very, very close to my mom. Her name was Milea; it's Hawaiian for “happiness.” That was really fitting for her. She touched everyone she met's life. She loved working here.”

Harry patted her hand. “What happened to her?”

“She got diagnosed with leukemia when I was in tenth grade. She lost her fight a few years ago.” She sighed. “Sometimes I miss her so much it hurts. I know it's kinda silly, but I always feel like she's still here with me, ya know?”

Harry smiled. “Yeah, I know the feeling quite well.”

They sat in silence for a moment, drinking their coffee, until Melba called for Hermione.

“Mione, it's time to clean the tables, dearie.” Hermione looked at Harry, apologizing.

“Here, let me take your cup.” He started to pull money out of his pocket, but she grabbed his arm to stop him. “No, this one's on the house. I haven't been able to talk to anyone in quite a while.”

“Thanks, Hermione. I guess I'll let you go so you can get to work.”

“Yeah. Well, see ya around.”

“See ya!”

She watched as he walked out of the Bison Witch, the wind teasing his hair, and her heart warmed for the first time in a long time.

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4. I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends

A/N: Thanks for reading all this so far! I really appreciate your attention and reviews (Reviews are so wonderful!) I've been really quite busy lately (our band won state in marching and our football team has been in the play-offs) but now we're moving on to concert season and our Dragon Boys got beat (dumb gold bugs)! So, hopefully there will be more updates soon!

Okay, to clear up some confusion, Hermione is a muggle, and well, I know Ron was a bit OOC in the last chapter, but I was just trying to get some haha laugh at Ron in even though I am completely lame and can't make anything funny. Also, I am kinda new at this writing stuff, so pardon my short chapters; I'm working on making them longer! We will be meeting all the old gang in this chapter, ain't that fun?!

Disclaimer: I don't own any of this (duh). If I did, why would I be writing fan fiction when I could be publishing books? I also don't own the Bison Witch Café, which is, in fact, a real café. I also don't own M&M's or A Walk to Remember.

Chapter 4

Going to the Bison Witch soon became a daily habit for Harry. He woke up on instinct early every morning, rushed to get ready, and went to the `quaint little bistro' in the heart of London. Hermione was always there waiting for him, a cup of coffee in her hand and a smile gracing her lips. The more Harry got to know her, the more beautiful she became. Whenever he came in, Hermione would sneak away from her work, if only for a short time, to come talk to him. Their conversations were never as deep and intimate as they had been on the day of the drunken Ron, but Harry was rapidly learning small, trivial things about his mysterious golden girl.

For instance, he knew that her favorite color was green because it reminded her of her mother's eyes. She liked to eat popcorn mixed with M&M's when she watched movies, the only thing that was always sure to make her cry was the movie “A Walk to Remember”, and she wrapped her head in a towel after showering. She hated muggy, sticky days, loved the soft touch of raindrops on her face, and practically lived for warm nights spent gazing at the starry sky.

And although Harry knew these things about her, he always went back for more. He felt as though he was addicted to her. He could barely think without thoughts of her interrupting him. He would find himself in the kitchen of his castle, chopping up carrots or getting a butterbeer, when he would suddenly wonder if she preferred chicken or beef. He didn't know where these thoughts came from, but he couldn't keep them from pervading his thoughts. He needed help, and as much as he hated to, he knew his friends would be able to give him advice, for better or worse.

This was the reason that Harry found himself in Hogsmeade, sitting alone at Madame Rosmerta's, on a cold and stormy day. It was only a few days before Thanksgiving, and the place was almost empty because of so many traveling for the holidays. True, Thanksgiving was an American holiday, but a lot of wizards traveled internationally and picked up on the celebration. Harry felt completely alone in the almost empty bar and looked out the window to wait for his friends to arrive. He had summoned all of the old group; he hoped he could trust their discernment.

Harry gave a deep sigh and checked his pocket watch. It was a quarter to six; almost ten minutes past the time they were arranged to meet. Where could they possibly be? As Harry tried to decide whether to leave or not, he heard six loud cracks outside the bar. He stood up abruptly, recognizing the sound of apparation, and waited for his friends to appear. They came in two by two and shook the snow and water off of their coats. Ron saw Harry first and led the others over to him. He and Luna were practically glued at the waist.

Thankfully, Ron was sober today, probably thanks to Luna. She brought out the best in him and encouraged him to be good—most of the time. Harry was glad that Ron had found someone like Luna. They fit together perfectly and she was beautiful. At 5'6”, her head rested gracefully on Ron's shoulder, her big blue eyes shining with joy. After she had graduated for Hogwarts, she had gotten a job as a novelist, writing stories for muggles about “fantasy” things like wizards and witches.

Following Ron and Luna were Ginny and Neville, such an unlikely couple that seeing them still made Harry chuckle. Neville was a great guy, but he certainly wasn't up to Ginny's normal standards. When they were at school, Ginny always preferred the tall, dark, mysterious types, not the small, quiet, people like Neville. He hadn't changed a bit from his schooldays (in fact he had achieved his never changing goal of becoming a herbology teacher), but Ginny had transformed into a goddess. Tonight, she was especially enticing with her long red hair all the way down to the back of her knees. She had two silver hoops through her ears and looked exactly like the fashion designer she was in her lime shirt, black slacks, and spiky six-inch heels.

The last couple to approach Harry was Seamus and Lavender. Harry had never been the greatest of friends with the pale and lashless Lavender, but he respected her opinion. Seamus and he had become friends in seventh year, and Harry had kept in close contact with him despite the fact that he was a banker at Gringotts and Harry was a billionaire.

Harry's heart flooded with joy and a smile broke from his mouth at the sight of his friends. He ushered them to the table and gave them menus so they could order. After ordering food and butterbeers, they all looked at each other for a few moments in silence. They hadn't all been together in almost a year, and being in the bar together again felt odd.

Ginny, naturally, was the first to speak. “So, Harry, what's this we've heard about your new girlfriend?” She put special emphasis on the word “girl” and gave him an evil smile. He gave her a death glare.

“For your information, she's not my girlfriend,” he replied sharply. “Well, not yet, anyways…” As he trailed off into his own thoughts, Luna began to laugh uproariously.

“Oh, dear, sweet Harry! You are so incredibly cute; it's just so darn funny! Not that way, Ron!” She smacked him on the head as he turned a glaring eye to Harry. He turned his normal shade of crimson and leaned back into his chair. Neville cleared his throat to ignore this latest occurrence.

“So, mate, what are you going to do about her?”

“Well I--“

“You could take her out on a romantic dinner and then take her for a broom ride under the stars.” Lavender clasped her hands and sighed at her fantasies.

“Or you could take her on a snorkak hunt.”

“Quidditch Games are the best for stealing a lass's heart, mate.”

Ron began to laugh this time. Ginny looked at him in disgust.

“What's wrong with you, birdbrain?”

Ron looked at her for a moment before giving a little hiccup. “Of course Harry can't do anything you guys have suggested! What are you, mental?!? It's not as though someone as smart as Harry would just walk a muggle into the wizarding world and—oh.” He stopped as everyone at the table grew silent and looked at him. Harry smacked his forehead and slid down into his seat. All of his friends turned their attention from Ron to Harry.

Luna looked at him gently. “Harry, I believe it's time that you tell us all about your mystery girl.” She looked at him encouragingly and patted his hand. He gave a few sighs before beginning.

“Okay, okay. Her name is Hermione Granger; she's 21 like me. I met her in the park one day as she made her way to work. She's a waitress, just like her mom was, at the Bison Witch Café in London. Her favorite color is green. She likes to eat popcorn mixed with M&M's when she watches movies, the only thing that is always sure to make her cry is the movie “A Walk to Remember”, and she wraps her head in a towel after showering. She hates muggy, sticky days, loves the soft touch of raindrops on her face, and practically lives for warm nights spent gazing at the starry sky. And I know it's crazy, but I feel as though I've known her my whole life, even though I just met her a month ago.”

His friends stared in amazement.

Seamus spoke first. “So, she is a muggle?”

“Well, yes, but—“

Lavender interrupted him with a laugh. “Oh my, you're the Savior of the Wizarding World and you've fallen in love with a muggle!” Ginny followed her laughing, and soon the two of them were clutching their sides from stitches. Harry glared at them before being refocused by Ron.

“Mate, don't listen to them. I saw her, and, well, who really cares if she's a muggle? I mean you're Harry Potter, the boy-who-lived, the Savior of the Wizarding World, and the hottest young bachelor out there.”

Neville nodded. “Ron's right. You should take a chance with her. I mean, she has no clue of your history- Heck, I bet she doesn't even know you're a millionaire- and it might be a nice change to spend time with a girl who doesn't just see you as a god or a friend or—“

“A man who's fly's unzipped. Please, Harry, I don't want to see that.” Ginny looked at him, this time completely serious. “Seriously, Harry, despite the fact that I think you two would probably never work out, Neville's right. I think it would be good for you. Just please, please be careful not to tell her your secret, or else you, me—all of us, in fact—could be possibly endangered.”

Harry smiled. “Right, yeah. I'll never tell. Now, how do you suggest I go about asking her out? What if she's not even interested?”

Lavender gave a little `humph.' “Any girl with half a brain would accept you. You really got it going for a 21-year-old bachelor. I mean, you have the most piercing green eyes, messy black hair (that really turns a girl on), you've got a great personality, and you have your scar. Scars are so…sexy.” She turned towards Seamus and, fingering the scar on his cheek he had acquired from Quidditch, began to kiss him passionately.

“Oi, already! Get a room!” Ron growled, not remembering the fact that his hand was placed a little too high up on Luna's leg. Lavender just smiled at him, mischievously.

“Okay, thanks for the suggestion!” Seamus shouted. “Harry, nice talking to you; good luck on asking Hermione out!” With another kiss to Lavender, he took his coat and put it on, breaking free from Lavender's hold for less than 5 seconds. Lavender did the same, and they apparated away in each other's arms. Harry really did not want to know where they would be in five minutes—he really really didn't want that image in his brain. He shook his head and looked at the four remaining people. These were the four people he cared about most at Hogwarts; he knew they would help him figure out how to approach Hermione.

Ginny let out a deep breath and clapped her hands together. “Okay, guys! We must bind together to figure out how Harry's going to win the heart of his muggle mistress.” Harry groaned.

“I'm just scared that I'll mess it up. I mean, the first three times that our paths crossed, I completely screwed things up, and I'm just scared it will happen again.”

“Don't worry, Harry, mate! The third time's the charm, my Gram always said!”

Luna smiled and placed her hands on the table. “When you're asking her out, just say what's from your heart, it will e enough to sweep her off her feet.”

“I've just never really had to ask out someone I really wanted to date. You guys usually just set me up and let me go from there. Truth be told, I'm a bit nervous.”

Ginny scooted her chair away from the table. Motioning the other three to follow her, she went over to Harry and gave him a soft, friendly hug. Ron, Luna, and Neville joined her and held Harry for a moment in their midst. Ron broke away first and fished something out of his pocket. He held it out and placed it in Harry's hand.

“Here, mate. I know I screwed it up for you on that one day, and I just wanted to make it up to you. Good luck.” Harry looked in his hand and found a full bottle of Felix Felicis. Harry looked at Ron and grinned.

“Thanks, mate. I better go on and get home. I'm going to go to the Bison Witch tomorrow and get the courage to finally ask Hermione out.”

Ginny and Luna hugged him again and Neville told him he'd be thinking of him. They waved good-bye and watched as Harry walked out the door and apparated into the dark, snowy night.

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

The next morning, Harry got to the Bison Witch as soon as it opened. To his dismay, it was packed with customers, and he internally kicked himself for forgetting just how busy the bistro could be. Today, there was a festive atmosphere in the air as music blared from a speaker and people talked merrily. The American holiday of Thanksgiving was often thought of as the official start of Christmas, and people's spirits were high. Harry found a seat at his usual table and waited patiently until he saw Hermione walking towards him, her face flushed from running to and fro.

When she saw Harry smiling at her from his usual seat, her face broke into a smile. She tucked a tendril of hair behind her ear shyly. “Hey, Harry, I'm so busy today I don't know if I can talk to you right away. Let me get your order and I'll be right back as soon as I can.”

“Oh, I see you're busy. Hey, listen, I won't make extra work for you, but I do need to talk to you sometime soon. Maybe you could meet me in the park by the fountain when your shift is over?” He knew his voice sounded desperate, but he didn't care.

“Sure!” She said as her graceful smile softened her features. “We're closing at 10:00 today, so I'll meet you at, say, 10:20?”

“I'll be there, Hermione. Until we meet again.” He put his coat back on and left the café. Not wanting to go back home until he talked to her, Harry went into the bookstore next door, where he spent the next three and a half hours poring over old muggle books, remembering how she said she loved to read.

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

At 10:20 exactly, Hermione came walking up to the large stone fountain in the middle of the park. She wore the same exact thing she had worn when she had first met Harry here. In her hands she carried two large cups of steaming hot chocolate she had picked up from work, and she wiggled her nose in an attempt to keep it from turning red with cold. She arced her head gracefully, looking for him, until she spotted him on the opposite side of the fountain.

She headed over to him and stood silently beside him until he noticed her presence.

“Hey!” He jumped up with a smile. He took the cups from her and motioned for her to sit down.

“I brought some hot chocolate for us; thought it would be quite nice in this cold.”

“Thank you very much.” He took a little sip as the steam fogged his glasses. “It's almost better than your coffee!” He took another drink, fogging his glasses up more. Hermione laughed and wiped the lenses with her scarf. He gave an appreciative smile and they were plunged into awkward silence.

“So…” Hermione began. “What did you need to talk to me about?”

“Well, I just wanted to say…” He took a deep breath. “I've really enjoyed getting to know you this past month. You're an amazing person, and I really like you, a lot. I was just wondering if you might want to go out to dinner with me tonight? I mean, if you don't want to, that's fine, but…” She placed her gloved hand on his lips to silence his stutters.

“Thank you very much for asking me. I'd love to go. What time will you pick me up?”

Harry's heart flooded. “How does seven sound?”

Hermione smiled. “That would be nice. Here, let me write my address down for you.” She pulled a slip of paper out of her pocket and quickly jotted down her address. “See you tonight!” she said as she placed the paper in his pocket.

Harry grinned in return. “Yeah, see you!”

They waved good-bye before heading their separate ways. Hermione was glad that Harry had asked her out, but she realized she had only so many hours to prepare for her first date in two years.

A/N: Yay, they're finally (kinda) together! Next Chapter: Hermione's Preparation and their big date! Oh, and just to clarify: yes, I know there aren't too many Lavender lovers out there, but I had to put another couple in there! I like to think that without Hermione in Harry's school life, he had to depend on other girls like Lavender for xtra girl help. Thanks for reading, please review!

Katie

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5. With All My Heart

A/N: Hey, ya'll. Happy late Thanksgiving Holidays to you all! Here's Chapter 5 up; their first date! Thanks for all who are reading this and reviewing! Reviews are better than turkey; gotta love it; it's necessary for a happy holiday (or author!) Once again I don't own A Walk to Remember or the ideas in it. One of the quotes in here is almost word for word from the movie, so forgive me. I can't help the fact that it's a perfect love story movie.

Disclaimer: Yada yada yada Don't own this Yada yada yada!

Chapter 5

Hermione looked at her reflection in the mirror before giving an angry look at Melba and pulling the dress off in a fury. Melba grabbed the dress from the floor and shook her head.

“Hermione, dear! You look beautiful in this! What's wrong?” Hermione gave her a little puppy dog look before bursting into tears.

“Oh, Melba! I'm so scared and worried and nervous about tonight! I haven't gone out with anyone in two years and I'm so scared that I won't be good enough! After all that has happened to me—“

“Hermione, that's enough. Don't go that way; that bridge has been burned. You can only look back that way for memories of experiences and not let it take over your life every time you have a date.” She handed her a tissue. “There, now. Harry really likes you, I promise. Why else would he come to the Bison Witch every single day?”

“Maybe he just really likes coffee?”

“Oh, posh. I'm sure he likes it, but I know he's not a very big coffee drinker by the leakage of the plant near his table.”

“You mean, he buys coffee every day just to dispose of it in a potted plant—“

“Just to see you, my dear.”

“Oh.” Hermione wiped her eyes, gave Melba a hug, and emerged into her closet. Her apartment wasn't particularly large, but the closet was large enough to step partially into. She searched among the racks for something to wear. Her eyes stopped on a black cocktail dress and she fingered the soft, flowing fabric carefully. She reluctantly pulled it off the hanger and slipped it on. Her fingers grasped the cool zipper and she carefully zipped it, careful not to snag her hair. She grabbed a pearl necklace from a box and fastened it around her long, slender neck. She slipped on high-heeled black shoes with pointy toes and stepped out of the closet. Melba gasped from her perch on the bed.

“Dear, you look wonderful. That necklace- is it…?”

“Yes. It was Mum's.”

Melba gave a kind, motherly smile. “I'm sure if she were here she'd be pleased as pie to see her little girl all grown up and beautiful.” She patted Hermione's arm in a caring fashion. After a moment of silence in which Hermione thought upon her mother, Melba finally spoke. “Well, let's go fix your hair and makeup.”

Melba took Hermione into the small bathroom and made her sit on the toilet lid. She pulled out a plethora of hair products and stylers. She spritzed on some hair-straightening tonic and began to work. After working for almost an hour, Hermione's hair was finally sleek and manageable. Looking in the mirror, she was amazed that her hair could ever be so beautiful and not bushy.

“Melba, this is amazing! I'm so glad I have you to help me with this!”

“It'll get better, I promise. This is just round one of the hairdo process.” Hermione gave a little groan.

“I'm so glad I don't do this on a daily basis—it's way too time consuming.”

Melba gave a little chuckle and began to style her long, brown hair. When she was finished, Hermione couldn't help but smile, pleased at the final result. Her hair was curled in loose curls all around her head, no frizz in sight. It was simple, yet elegant, and it fit Hermione's fancy perfectly. Glancing at her clock, she saw there was only 15 minutes until Harry was scheduled to arrive. She ran to the mirror and rushed to apply her makeup. Right as she was capping her lipstick for the final time, she heard a knock on her apartment door. She looked at Melba and gasped.

“It's him!” Melba jumped over the bed and grabbed Hermione's long, gray wool coat from her coat rack. She tossed it to her as she walked towards the door. Melba gave her a quick good luck hug and ran into the kitchen, out of sight.

When Hermione finally opened the door, she saw Harry smiling on the other side. Oh, my! He looks very sexy tonight and—Granger! Shame on you for thinking something like that!

But she couldn't help think it, for it was true. He had on a blue and white striped button up shirt that somehow accented his eyes, slightly baggy blue jeans, and brown shoes. His hair was messier than usual and his grin made her heart flutter.

“H-hey, Harry.”

“Hermione. You look very nice tonight.”

“Thank you. You don't look half bad yourself.”

He gave a nervous little laugh before handing her a white single-stemmed rose, surprisingly without any trace of thorns. “I got this for you.”

Hermione smiled at his sweet boy-like shyness. “Thank you! Let me put it in a vase really quickly. Come on in, make yourself at home for a few minutes!” She ran to the kitchen and left Harry looking around her apartment. He noticed that her apartment was very small, and was glad that she didn't know that he was a billionaire. He had no worries, though. Although he had chosen not to use the Felix Felicis before asking her out, he had taken seven drops in his tea before coming in an attempt to make this date perfect.

After a few moments, Hermione emerged from the kitchen, coat in hand.

“Are we ready?” She smiled sweetly at him as he nodded.

“Yeah. Oh, let me help you with your coat.” As he took the coat from her hand, her fingers grazed his and his whole body tingled with ecstasy. Controlling himself, he put the coat on her and carefully pulled her hair out from under the collar.

“Thank you, Harry.”

“No problem.” He stepped in front of her and opened the door for her. She gave him another smile that made his heart race as he closed the door. He led her to his little old car and opened the door for her before getting in on the driver's side. They made small talk as they drove slowly through downtown London. Everything was perfect, and Harry was very glad he had used some of the potion tonight.

As Harry watched Hermione from the corner of his eye, he noticed every little thing about her. Her eyes sparkled brilliantly every time she would smile, her fingers tapped the armrest softly and gracefully, and she would pull back strands of her hair right before she said anything to him. They traveled for a few blocks in silence until he saw her fiddle with a strand of her hair. He stifled a smile and waited until she spoke.

“So, where are we going tonight?”

“Well, I was thinking about going to a seafood along the Thames. Is that okay with you?”

“Sounds wonderful. I love seafood.”

“Okay, then! Here we are.” He pulled the car into a little parking lot that was already very crowded. He pulled the car into a parking space close to the front and leaped out of the car. He ran around the front and opened the door for Hermione while extending his arm to help her out.

“Why, thank you, Harry.”

“No problem. I've reserved a table, so we can go in immediately instead of waiting in this long line.” He made a gesture towards the long line that was stretched around the building. He led her to the door and held it open for her to step inside.

It was warm inside the restaurant despite the promise of snow outside. Hermione could see that the restaurant was crowded but somewhat quiet. Harry took her by the arm and led her to the waiter's stand. There was a very pretty Asian girl standing there in a white shirt and tie, menus in her hand. Harry saw her and his face lit up with recognition.

“Parvati, hey! I didn't know you worked here!”

“Why, if it isn't Harry Potter! What have you been up to lately, saving the world as we know it?” Harry gave her a little glare as Hermione looked on, confused.

“Well, tonight I'm here with Hermione Granger. Hermione, this is Parvati. We went to school together. Parvati, this is Hermione.”

Hermione gave a little nod. “Nice to meet you, Parvati.”

Parvati gave a little laugh. “Same to you! Now, let me seat you guys.” She led them to a small table for two that was right by a huge plate glass window. The room was dimly lit, and they could see the reflection of downtown London on the Thames. Parvati gave them menus and left them to decide what they wanted to eat. They looked at their menus for a few moments before Hermione placed hers on the table with a sigh. She looked out the window as she placed her hands on top of the menu. Harry reached out and cradled her small hand with his large one.

“Hermione, what's wrong?”

She gave a little smile. “Oh, nothing. I was just admiring the view.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, I'm sure. Can I ask you a personal question? You don't have to answer.”

“Fire away.”

“Okay. Did you and Parvati ever have a “thing” for each other?”

Harry gave a snort. “Not quite. I did go with her to a Ball in my fourth year, just because Ron was going with her twin sister, Padma.” He laughed at some memory. “In fact, they both got quite angry at us after we ditched them during the dance to go spy on--, uh, well, one of our larger friends.”

Hermione laughed. “Do I even want to know?”

“Probably not.” He took his hand off of hers and placed his menu on the table. Moments later Parvati returned, this time with a notepad in hand.

“Okay, you two! What can I get you tonight?”

Hermione spoke up first. “I'll take the Cajun shrimp pasta with a glass of iced tea please.”

“Make that two, please.” Harry smiled at Hermione and she smiled back. Parvati jotted down their order and walked away. Hermione turned back to Harry, wanting more information.

“So, why could you not get a date to the Ball?”

Harry sighed and mussed up his hair, revealing his scar to her for the first time. She pretended not to notice and listened instead to his answer.

“Truthfully, I don't know. I'm not meaning to brag, but I've always been, well, you could say I'm a bit of a legend where I come from. Before the Ball, I had girls falling for me left and right, but I guess I just waited to long to ask anyone to go with me.”

Hermione couldn't help the feeling of jealousy that rose in her chest. “So, in your past you were a womanizer, basically.”

Harry turned so red that his scar almost disappeared. Really, that is a peculiar scar. I've never seen a cut that becomes a perfect lightning bolt.

“Oh, Hermione, you're actually quite far from the truth. True, I have gone out with quite a few girls, but, well, can I tell you something as long as you promise not to laugh?”

“Promise with all my heart.”

“I've never been kissed; no girl's ever touched my lips.”

Hermione looked at him, flabbergasted. “Why?”

He grinned sheepishly and ruffled his hair again, a habit she realized he did when he was embarrassed or nervous. “I don't know. I just have always thought of love as something pure and perfect. I realized that once my first kiss was given, it was gone forever. I just think that since it's so important to me, I won't just give it away freely to any girl that I date. I'm still saving my first kiss for the one girl who truly loves me for who I am, not just what I possess.”

Hermione looked at him and couldn't help the slight mist of tears in her eyes. “Wow, Harry. That's so sweet. I knew you were different from all the other guys I've ever met; now I see I was completely right.”

Harry gave a bashful grin and mumbled something incoherent. After a few seconds of awkward silence, their food arrived and they begin to dig in heartily. They ate for a few moments with only the sound of the musicians near the dance floor filling their ears. Harry wiped his mouth with a napkin before turning to Hermione.

“Okay, my turn to ask you a personal question.”

“Alright, go ahead, give me your best shot.”

“What is a beautiful, intelligent young lady like you doing at a coffee shop, working her life away without schooling or dates for two years before tonight?”

She looked at him, shocked. “How did you know I haven't dated for two years?”

“Uhh, Melba threatened me within an inch of my life not to hurt you when I went back to the Bison Witch this morning to make sure you didn't have anything to do tonight.”

“Oh.” She stared at him for a few moments in wonderment before finally sighing. “Okay, here's the answer to your question. First of all, after my mom died, all my ambitions to finish my schooling died with her. I found comfort by working where she worked, right alongside Melba. I'm so grateful for Melba, cause she's taken me under her wing during my lowest times.”

“That's really good that you have someone to depend on. I've never really had anyone but Ron to depend on since I was one, and you know that's not much to depend on.”

They both laughed before another silence fell. Hermione didn't know if she wanted to tell him her reason for not dating until tonight. She thought she could trust him, but…

Thankfully Harry interrupted her thoughts. “Hermione, would you care to dance?”

“Certainly!” Harry stood up and held out his hand to her. She took it, trying not to think about how firm and soft it was, and let him lead her to the dance floor. No one else was dancing, making Hermione feel slightly self-conscious. As Harry began to lead her into a dance, he could feel her nervousness by the way she was all tensed up. He leaned his mouth to her ear and whispered tenderly to her.

“Hermione, just relax. Don't care about what they think. I'm here, and I promise I will never let you go.” She smiled at his words and leaned in closer to him. They danced alone on the ballroom floor while all the diners watched them with smiles on their faces. They all remembered what it was like to be young and in love, and nobody touched the dance floor, not wanting to interrupt the coming together of these two young souls. They continued to dance until the lights went down. Only then did they realize that they were some of the only people left in the restaurant. They both gave nervous little giggles and walked back to their table hand in hand. They grabbed their coats and Hermione waited while Harry paid the bill.

As they exited the restaurant, they realized that it had begun to snow. Harry led her to the walkway down to the river's edge. They walked hand in hand down the snowy sidewalks, admiring the view and snow. Harry couldn't help but notice how beautiful Hermione was with her cheeks tinged with pink from the cold. He squeezed her hand tighter.

They continued to walk until they reached a large flat rock posing as a monument. Hermione sat on it, and he sat beside her, refusing to let go of her hand. She leaned her soft, curly hair against his shoulder. They sat like this for a few moments before Hermione spoke.

“I'm ready to answer your second question now.” She didn't quite know why, but she felt compelled to tell him her story. He looked at her attentively.

“If you don't want to tell me, you don't have to.”

“No, it's okay. This is something I need to finally get off my chest. The reason that I haven't dated anyone since I was nineteen is because, well, until I met you I didn't trust anybody. See, I was dating this guy named Michael. He was an American, here in London on an internship. We met at the library and started dating when I was seventeen and a half, a few months before Mum died. He was everything I ever hoped for, or so I thought. When Mum died, he stood by my side and supported me with all he had. It wasn't until about two months after Mum's death that things started to go sour.

“He started to spend less time with me than before, but I just excused it to his increasing work load. After a while, I realized that he was cheating on me with some French girl. I confronted him, and he told me that it was all a misunderstanding and that he loved me more than anyone else in the world. Me, being the stupid person I am, believed him. We continued dating, but things were really rocky. He told me that unless I had sex with him that he would leave me, but I refused. So he began to abuse me, physically and mentally, until I turned to Melba for help.

“She gave me the courage to break up with him. When I finally did, he snapped and completely lost it. He started threatening to kill me. He actually tried to once, threatening that if he couldn't have me, no one could. I called the police, and he was sent back to America. After that, I went to some counseling, but it didn't seem to help. I had scars, both emotional and physical, and I shut myself away. Eventually, all my friends abandoned me, believing that I was some horrible slut. And I swore to myself to never trust another guy again, to avoid the pain.

“And then you came into the Bison Witch, and, oh, I don't know! I just trusted you for some reason; I saw it in your eyes. It may have been a mistake going out with you, but tonight was the first time in a long time that I actually felt like myself again.”

Harry looked at her in amazement, the tears in his eyes mirroring hers. “Oh, `Mione… I'm so, so sorry that all that has happened to you.” He pulled her close to him and rocked her back and forth, letting her tears fall on his shirt. “You are not stupid or a horrible slut or anything else he might have made you believe. Oh my, I hate that guy so much, and I've never even met him. I promise that I will never do anything to make you doubt my trust. And I know this sounds crazy since I haven't known you that long, but you are the most amazing woman I've ever met, and I promise I will never hurt you or abandon you.”

She looked up to him as a single tear rolled down her cheek. “Do you mean that, Harry?”

He leaned forward and kissed the spot on her cheek where the tear rested, tasting it's salty flavor on his lips. “With all my heart.”

He took her by the hand and they walked in silence back to Harry's car. Harry opened her door for her and got in on the driver's side. He started the car, but before he could put it in reverse, Hermione placed her hand on his arm. He looked at her, his emerald eyes piercing the darkness.

“Harry, thank you for listening to me, and for being so sweet. You've proved to me that it is possible to trust again.”

Not knowing what to say, he patted her arm and smiled.

The drive to her apartment was silent. Neither minded, though, too enveloped in their thoughts. When they reached Hermione's door, Harry looked at her with an emotion in his eyes that she couldn't read. He smiled at her and hugged her, wrapping her in his arms. They stood like that for a moment until Harry broke the silence.

“Hermione, tomorrow me and a few of my friends and their girlfriends are going to get together at my place and having a little dinner. I was wondering, well, really I was hoping that, maybe, you'd like to come?”

Hermione smiled. “Sure, I'll be there, if you can pick me up.” He nodded and she smiled. “Thank you for tonight, Harry. I had a wonderful time.”

“Me too. So, does that mean that you'll, well, will you be my girlfriend?”

She gave a huge smile, once again touched by his boyish shyness. “Yes, Harry, I'll be Yours.” She leaned up and gave him a little peck on the cheek. “Goodnight, Harry.”

“Goodnight, `Mione.” She let herself into the house, looking out the door one last time. What she saw was Harry standing in shock, softly fingering the place on his face that had been grazed by her lips.

A/N: Okay, so that was longer than previous chapters. Yay! OMG, writing that last part made me cry a bit; I'm too emotional sometimes. Anyways, please review! Next chapter: Meeting Harry's Mates!

Thanks for Reading,

KatieBug

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6. Meeting Harry's Mates/So Close to Heaven

A/N: Hello everybody! Sorry it's been a little longer than I thought on an update. I've had a butt-load of work and a bit of writer's block. Oops. Hopefully you'll forgive me though, cause here's chapter 6: Meeting Harry's Mates! Please R&R! OH, and thanks to all of those faithful readers who read this every time and review! It's much appreciated! *Hug * LittleKatieBug

P.S. Sorry about one of Hermione's slang terms, but I just had to put in there! *wink, wink *

Disclaimer: None of this is mine, etc, etc, etc!

Chapter 6

The next day, Harry arrived at Hermione's apartment promptly at five o' clock. When she opened the door for him, the scent of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies graced his nostrils.

“Smells like someone's been cooking!” He said as Hermione gave him a huge hug.

“I was in a wonderful mood, and I felt like baking cookies for tonight's dinner. Cooking's what I do when I'm really cheery.”

Harry smiled and softly pulled a strand of hair away from her face. “You didn't need to cook anything for tonight, but I'm sure it will be splendid, the best cookies ever.” She gave a little blush before pulling away and going to the kitchen. She grabbed a plate of cookies, got her coat on with Harry's assistance, and took his hand in hers. He led her out the door and into the blustering cold. After a few moments of awkward silence, Harry's heart pounded with dread, realizing he had to tell her in advance.

As they got into his car, Harry looked at her for a moment. These were the last few moments of her innocence and naivety. He just hoped she wouldn't change like all the other girls when they found out his secret.

Hermione, feeling Harry's eyes on her, turned and looked into his piercing green eyes.

“Why, Harry! Whatever is wrong?”

He gave a little sigh. “Hermione, may I ask you something?” She nodded without speaking, concern in her eyes. “Okay, why are you going out with me?”

Surprised by his question, she fumbled for words. “W-well, I, well, I'm going out with you because you're—different from all the other guys in the world, and you're the sweetest most amazing person I've ever met.”

“So, if I told you something you didn't know about me, would your opinion of me change?”

“Probably not.”

He let out another sigh. “Okay, Hermione. I've got to tell you know, before we get to my house. The truth is Hermione, well, I'm, well I'm not bragging, but I'm a millionaire.”

She stared at him, mouth agape.

“I know it's hard to believe, but it's true. I didn't want to tell you immediately, because I've discovered that people are desperate for money and will go to any extreme to gain it.” She continued to stare, her eyes resembling a frog's. “Hermione, please say something, anything!”

“You freakin' retard!” Okay that's not the response I expected to get!

“What?”

“Oh, my gosh! I would never treat you differently because of who—or what—you are! I guess I'm just a little flabbergasted right now. I mean, you don't seem like the millionaire type.”

Harry grinned. “I try my hardest not to.”

Hermione took his hand. “Thanks for warning me before I saw your house. I promise you, I will never treat you any differently because of your wealth. To me, you'll always be you, despite your riches or fame.” She leaned over and kissed him on the cheek as he turned red. He put the car into gear and quickly pressed the brakes.

“Oh, Harry! What's wrong?”

“I forgot to warn you of something else.”

“What?”

“My dear, drunk friend Ron will be there, sober this time.”

She shrugged. ”So what's the big deal? We discovered last time that I can handle him myself.”

“Yeah,” he grinned, “But if you put those cookies down in the presence of Ron, they'll be gone in ten seconds flat, and I really want one.” She gave a little humph and bopped him on the shoulder before slowly placing a soft, gooey cookie in his open mouth.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Hermione couldn't help but stare in amazement as they drove down Harry's long, tan gravel driveway. It did help that Harry had warned her of his wealth before hand, but nothing could have really prepared her for all that she saw.

To her right, there were well-kept green acres as far as she could see. Trees were scattered everywhere in little clusters, and there was a crystal clear lily pond with flowers floating on the water. To the left, there were more lush, rolling hills with a small sculpture garden. She knew Harry was watching her to see her responses, but she didn't care. She was too busy looking around, turning her head like she was at a three-ring circus.

At the end of the circular driveway, Hermione saw a huge grey-stone castle. It had at least seven turrets and more stained glass windows than she could count. There were two wooden doors that looked almost medieval with their black chains hanging off of them like loose-fitting clothing. She couldn't help but smile; everything around her was surreal and fairy-tale-like.

Harry pulled up in front of the house and cut the ignition. He turned to her and gave a little bashful grin. “So, what do you think?”

She grinned back. “Well, you weren't lying when you said you were rich.” They both laughed before Harry got out of his seat and came around to open her door. He extended his arm and she took it gently. They walked up the stone steps hand in hand as their footsteps echoed in the still evening air. Harry escaped from her hold just long enough to open the door. He led her inside the dim corridor and turned the lights on slowly for effect. When she gasped at the sight before her, Harry couldn't help but laugh. He was having the time of his life watchign her behave like a little girl who always dreams of being a princess.

The main hall was splendid to behold. The floor was made of polished 14-century tiles, the ceiling arched upward in refined cedar wood, and an ancient metallic chandelier hung down gracefully. Although Harry had hidden parts of his house from magic, he had kept the adornments on the main hall's walls. The right wall contained artifacts and trinkets from Hufflepuff's and Slytherin's houses; the left wall contained artifacts from Gryffindor's and Ravenclaw's houses. Between each house's displays stood suits of armor, polished and gleaming in the fluorescent lights. Harry knew that it might be risky leaving Hogwarts items in plain sight, but he could not bring himself to hide them.

“Harry, this is beautiful! But, well, what are all these items on your walls?”

Harry coughed nervously. “Well, those are just, uh, things I picked up at antique stores and estate sales. I think they kinda give the place an old world touch.” He held his breath, hoping she wouldn't pick up on his phony lie.

“Oh, yeah, you're right. They do make it feel all old-ish in here. Hey, when are your friends arriving?”

Harry exhaled sharply, silently thanking Merlin that Hermione had bought his lie. “They should be here any minute now. Ron and Luna are bringing some steak for us to eat, and Ginny and Neville are bringing some vegetables and Seamus and Lavender are bringing bread and pasta.”

“And what, pray tell, are you contributing to this feast.”

“Well, I happen to be a world-class cheesecake chef.”

Hermione laughed. “Really?”

“Oh, yeah. I make a very scrumptious cherry cheesecake. You want to try a little bit before hand?”

“Well, alright. If you don't mind, that is.”

“Not at all!” He took her hand again and led her to a door right behind the wooden staircase at the far side of the hall. He pushed it open and revealed a medium sized stone kitchen with a long wooden table.

“Is everything in your home wooden or stone?”

Harry smiled. “Well, not everything. Wooden underwear is just so uncomfortable.” He went through a swinging door quickly, leaving Hermione to laugh alone. He returned seconds later with a large portion of cheesecake on a blue china tea plate.

“For you, madam.” She thanked him, choosing to ignore his phony French accent. She took a little sample and placed it in her mouth and chewed in silence. After a moment, she looked at him and smiled.

“You're absolutely right! This is the best cheesecake I've ever eaten!” Harry smiled at her, feigning humility. “Would you like some of your own cheesecake, Monsieur Harry?” He smiled again and nodded.

“Are you germophobic, or can I just use your fork?”

Hermione just nodded and scooped up a little piece on her fork. Harry opened his mouth and she slowly slid the fork in. After he ate the bit in his mouth, he took the fork and placed some in her mouth. They continued in this fashion, acting like two love sick teenagers, until the piece of cheesecake was gone. As Hermione swallowed the last bit, they heard a knock at the door. Harry took Hermione's hand and held her close to him.

“That will be my friends now.”

“Let's go greet them, I suppose.” They walked briskly down the great hallway, still holding hands. Harry felt Hermione's heart quicken as she stood so close to him.

“Don't be scared, `Mione,” he whispered in her ear. He opened the door slowly, and, with a gust of wind, six people stepped into the main hall. They seemed to ignore Harry's presence and began to swarm Hermione.

“Oh, my! You must be Hermione!”

“So nice to meet you!”

“Hopefully, under better circumstances this time, eh Ron?”

“Don't mention that again!”

“Oh, do shut-up all of you! You're scaring the poor girl!” The last speaker was a petite blond with deep blue, starry eyes. “Hi, Hermione. I'm Luna Lovegood, Ron's girlfriend. I've heard that you've already met him.” She gestured towards Ron.

“Hey, Hermione. Nice meeting you again.”

“Uhh, likewise.”

A small, pixie-like woman with long red hair the same shade as Ron's continued the introductions. “Nice to meet you, Hermione. I'm Ginny Weasley. This is my boyfriend, Neville Longbottom, and these two lovebirds are Seamus Finnegan and Lavender Brown soon-to-be Finnegan. We are all very pleased to meet you. Please forgive us for frightening you.”

“Oh, it's quite all right. Nice to meet you all, too.”

Harry cleared his throat. “Alright, then! Let's go to the kitchen and eat all this great food you guys have brought.” They grabbed the food that they had placed on the ground and followed as he led them to the kitchen, his hand still glued to Hermione's. She couldn't help but feel a little nervous as she felt all eyes on her back. Harry sensed her fear and squeezed her hand a tighter.

They entered the kitchen and situated themselves appropriately around the table. Hermione felt her nerves calming slightly as Harry pulled the chair out for her and sat beside her. Ginny got some plates from Harry's kitchen and distributed them to everybody. They piled their plates high and ate in silence for a few moments until Harry spoke up.

“Okay, I'm just going to make some more formal introductions than we had in the main hall. Everybody, this is my girlfriend, Hermione Granger.” All eyes blinked a few times before huge smiles broke out all around. Ron spoke first. “Hermione, I know you've already met me, but I hope you will give me a second chance. I've gone to school with Harry and been best mates with him ever since, and I just want to say that I am very glad that you are now a part of his life.”

Harry laughed. “Thanks, Ron. All of these guys went to school with me in my year, except for Ginny and Luna who were a year below us.”

Hermione cleared her throat and placed her fork down. “That's really cool that you guys have known each other so long.”

Lavender spoke up next. “So, Hermione? What do you do for a living?”

“Well, I'm a waitress at the Bison Witch Café in London.”

Neville coughed. “Did you say witch?”

“Yes. Why do you ask?”

“No reason,” he mumbled as he took a large bite of steak.

“What do all of you guys do?”

Ginny smiled and flipped her hair. “I'm an independent fashion designer. I design and model my own line of clothing”

“That's really neat. I've never met anyone in the modeling business.”

“Lavender works with me, helping me to actually make my clothes.”

Ron took the floor. “Neville, Seamus, and I all work for, uh, the government.”

“And,” piped up Luna, “I work for the Quibbler as a scout for interesting stories about crumple horned snorkaks and nargles the world over!”

Harry groaned and put his hand to his forehead. Please, Hermione! Don't ask any questions!

“What exactly are crumple horned snorkaks and nargles?”

“Well, nargles are nasty little creatures that infest plants. They especially like to infest trees that are chopped down to make wands, often making the wood useless for spells.”

Ron saw Harry's horrified expression and quickly covered for him. “What Luna's trying to say is that she is an author of mystical children's books.”

Hermione didn't quite buy that, but she just nodded. Trying to avoid another close call, Harry made politely forced conversation until the end of the meal. After they cleared the table, the men went into Harry's library while the girls kept Hermione in the kitchen for a little chat. Ginny went into the kitchen and conjured four steaming mugs of peppermint hot chocolate while Luna, Lavender, and Hermione got situated in more comfortable places at the table. When Ginny emerged a few moments later with four mugs, Hermione looked at her quizzically.

“That didn't take long for you to get four cups of hot chocolate. How did you manage to make it that fast?”

“Oh, well, trick of the trade.” Ginny felt her ears turning slightly pink. She handed Hermione a mug and she sipped it gratefully.

“Wow, Ginny. This is really good. Much better than the cocoa we make at the Bison Witch.”

Luna placed her mug on a coaster that had seemed to appear from thin air. “So, Hermione, tell us more about yourself, starting with the Bison Witch.”

“Well, um, The Bison Witch Café is run by my adopted mother and best friend, Melba Anders. My mum died after I graduated, and Melba took me in and gave me a job. Right now I'm the only waitress because our other waitress quit.”

Luna patted Hermione's hand. “I'm sorry that your mum died; I feel your pain. My mum died when I was a little girl and I still miss her sometimes.”

“That's good at least that you have someone to talk to, Hermione.” Lavender said while batting her lashless eyes. “And now that you're practically a part of our extended family, I hope you can learn to trust us, too.”

Hermione looked at her in surprise. “What do you mean I'm part of your extended family?”

Ginny smiled, revealing her perfectly straight white teeth. She leaned forward and patted Hermione's hand. “Harry was practically adopted by mine and Ron's mum.”

“I figured you two were related.”

Luna smiled and finished for Ginny. “And Harry's practically a brother and best friend to all of us. I know you may have technically only been seeing you for a short time, but he cares deeply for you.”

Lavender spoke quietly. “Harry's not one to go partially in to something. If he cares for someone, he doesn't just slightly fancy someone. If he cares for you, he goes all the way, loving you with so much of his heart that it's fit to burst.”

“He's never been kissed.” Hermione couldn't help but see the sad look that crossed Ginny's face as she said this. Hermione sighed happily.

“He told me that already. I know that will probably lead to some disappointment or other, but that's the sweetest thing I've ever heard. It's just like something out of a book. Because of his pureness and sweetness, well, I think that's the main reason I was able to open up and trust him.”

Luna sighed dreamily. “Harry's a keeper. If I were you, I would hold him tight and never let him go. I love Ron to death, but he has his many flaws. Harry, though…” She let the thought trail in the air as silence settled over them.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

“Are you absolutely insane?!” Ron shouted, jumping slightly.

“Ron's got a point, mate.” Seamus ran his fingers through his sandy hair. “She is a muggle, and although she's very nice and easy on the eyes, are you sure you want to?”

Harry nodded. “I know it's crazy, but I love her so much that it hurts to think about it. Although she's technically only been my girlfriend for a while, but I love her.”

They all sighed, knowing that Harry never went halfway on anything.

Neville sighed. “If you want to do it, mate, we support you. But please be careful.”

They all gave Harry encouraging smiles as he tried to give a brave little smile.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

An hour later, the couples left with an array of good-byes, leaving Harry and Hermione alone. As they waved at their friends from the doorway, Harry looked at Hermione softly.

“Hermione, would you like to go for a walk?”

“Certainly, Harry.” They grabbed their coats and headed for the door hand in hand. Harry entwined his fingers in hers and blushed when she smiled.

“So, what did you think of my crew?”

“I liked them. I didn't really have an opportunity to speak much with the guys, but I really got to know the girls. I hope they liked me.”

“Oh, I'm sure they did! How could they not?” They stopped where they were and Harry looked down at Hermione. All time froze as they looked into each other's eyes, and for a moment, Hermione thought he was going to kiss her.

After a moment, he broke away and they continued to walk in silence. He led her to the lily pond where a blanket had been laid on the grass. “Here, Hermione. Let's sit here to talk.” She sat down on the blanket and he sat behind her, holding her in his arms. They sat for a moment, looking at the stars, enjoying each other's presence.

“Hermione, if you could have one wish, what would it be?”

Hermione thought for a moment. “Promise you won't laugh?”

“Promise.”

“Alright. I want to go back to school and get my degree. Then after that, I would take some alternate classes to learn all I possibly could.”

“Why is that your wish?”

She sighed. “I would like to be able to prove to the world that I wasn't just some dumb waitress and that if I had an opportunity I could get a job doing something important for others.”

“You'll never be a dumb waitress to me.” He softly played with her hair with his fingers. “What would you do if you could?”

“I'm not really sure. I'd like to be a medical researcher and find the cure for cancer, but…”

“But what?”

She shrugged. “I don't really know how to explain it. Sometimes, I just know there is something else out there. I don't mean other options, but things behind what we mere humans can see. I know it's crazy, but my mother would always tell me these wonderful stories about magical Healers and real witch professors, and I, well, I know it's not real, but that's what I would really like to discover, after I get my degree, that is.”

Harry looked at her, trying to keep the surprise from showing on his face. “Trust me, Hermione. Never give up on your dream, because I promise you there is more out there than the naked eye can see.”

“I'm sure.”

“No, really! Magic is everywhere, in everything you see and feel. There are very few who can actually detect it, but I bet you're one of those who can.”

“Well, thanks.”

“May I ask you one more thing?”

“Go ahead.”

“Why have you never gone back to school if that's your dream?”

“Oh, Harry, it's just that, well, entrance fees are so high, and the tests are so hard. I don't think I could get in even if I tried.”

“I believe in you. And if you ever have an opportunity to go back to school, take it, for me.”

She nodded and gazed at the lily pond. “How do you keep it unfrozen in this cold?”

“Uh, special heaters. This lily pond is a very special place for me. It shares my mother's name, and I've found that I can always think best when I'm here.”

“I bet your mother was amazing.”

“Oh, she was. Well, actually I don't know that, cause I don't really remember her, but she sacrificed her life for me, and I know she loved me more than anyone else.”

“Maybe that's why you love with all your heart or hate with all you have.” Her words settled over them quietly. “How did she die, Har?”

“She and my dad were both murdered. The man who murdered them tried to kill me, and that's how I have this.” He took his hand away from hers and slowly traced his lightning bolt-shaped scar. She turned around and faced him. She took his hand in hers and the two of them traced his scar slowly. She placed her hand on his chest.

“I'm so glad you lived, so glad you have this scar to prove where you have come from. I know this sounds crazy, Harry, but do you believe in fate?”

“Sometimes.”

“I think fate brought us together, and I really think you lived and I've survived all my horrible experiences for this moment here, together.”

Harry held her close to him and squeezed her hands in his.

“Earlier I asked you what your one wish was.”

“What is yours, in this moment and time?”

“The courage to do this.” He leaned down and softly kissed her lips. Although the kiss wasn't passionate or fiery, it was pure and full of love, and Hermione had never experienced something so close to heaven.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

A/N: Awwww…. Harry's given Hermione his first kiss! How incredibly sweet!

Hopefully the next chapter will be up soon!

KaTiEbUg09

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7. Winter Wonderland/Comfort and Joy

A/N: Hey everybody! Thanks to all who reviewed with overflowing support about last chapter! This chapter is a Christmas Eve/Christmas Chapter, so some time has elapsed, but I am in a wonderfully festive mood, and I don't have much else to write except for this. The things that are in this chapter have haunted me, and I had to use them in this chapter. So, put on some Christmas music, drink some cocoa, get into the holiday spirit, and enjoy this chapter! (And, remember, if you really appreciate it, to review; that's all I want for Christmas is reviews!) Katie

Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter; only the events that I think should happen between him and Hermione.

Chapter 7:

Harry may have given Hermione his first kiss at the lily pond, but it definitely wasn't his last. Ever since that moonlight serenade, they had spent every moment that Hermione wasn't working together, holding hands and giving soft kisses every chance they got. Harry had the love bug bad. He found that with Hermione in his life, he was a much happier person. The loneliness that he had felt that cold day in October when he met her was gone, and he laid his head down at night thinking of her; in the morning he awoke and rushed to get ready to go see her.

Hermione was also much happier because of her boyfriend. She was no longer haunted by her memories of Michael and was as happy as she was when Milea was still alive. Joy overflowed from her to others, and everyone who went to the Bison Witch Café came out feeling like a million dollars. Hermione knew they must think she was on drugs, but she just couldn't stop the joy that bubbled in her heart.

Christmas Eve came with snow and below freezing temperatures. As Hermione finished clearing off tables while singing her heart out to the Christmas carols on the radio, she heard the bells on the door jingle. Turning, she saw Harry come into the bistro. She dropped her rag and ran towards him, arms outstretched. He hugged her ferociously and tilted her chin up to kiss her soft lips as Melba stepped out of the kitchen.

“Ah, ah, ah! No making out in the dining area!” Hermione and Harry pulled apart as if burned. Melba chuckled. “I'm just kidding, you two. Hermione, go on and go. I'll follow you out.”

She motioned for Hermione to follow her to the back and Hermione kissed Harry quickly, letting her hand linger sensually as she walked off. She couldn't help but give a little swing to her walk since she could feel Harry's eyes on her.

Melba and Hermione grabbed their coats and went back out to the dining area. Melba locked the doors and followed the lovebirds outside.

“I'll just walk with you guys until we get to the park and then I'll leave you alone.”

“Oh, that's alright, Melba.” Harry grinned mischievously. He broke away from Hermione and quietly knelt down and balled some snow in his gloved hand. He gently tossed the snowball at Melba's turned back as Hermione began to giggle.

“Harry, boy! Did you throw that snowball at me?”

Harry pressed some snow in Hermione's glove none to subtly.

“Well, I maybe an old lady, but you definitely picked the wrong old lady to wage war on!” She knelt down and grabbed some snow and began to throw it viciously at Harry. He gathered more snow and they began a vicious fight between them as they walked through the park. Hermione rolled her eyes and feigned annoyance.

“Really, you two! I feel like I'm babysitting two preschoolers!” Her boyfriend and best friend stopped tossing snow and laughed.

“Sorry, `Mione.” Harry leaned down and kissed her lips tenderly.

“Spoiling all our fun, that Hermione.” Melba chuckled.

Hermione looked at Harry and cleared her throat. “Melba, tomorrow it's just gonna be me and Harry tomorrow for Christmas dinner at my place. We would both really like it if you could join us.”

“Oh, I wouldn't want to intrude—“

Harry placed his hand on Melba's shoulder. “Melba, really, you won't be intruding! Christmas is a time you should spend with those you love, and we both really appreciate you.”

Melba blushed. “Well, okay then. I suppose I'll join you two tomorrow.”

“Alright, then! I'll see you tomorrow, Melba.”

“Bye, Harry. Bye, Hermione. Have fun tonight!” They waved goodbye and went their separate ways. As Harry and Hermione walked towards Harry's old car, the snow began to fall softly. He opened the door for her, got in on the other side, and drove off towards his castle.

When they pulled up in his driveway, they walked into the house, cheeks pink with cold. Harry led Hermione up the stairs. She had never been upstairs before, and that small, untrusting part of her screamed in caution.

“Here's my room, Hermione. If you want to change out of your work blouse, you can wear one of my sweatshirts.” He rummaged about in a drawer before producing a maroon and gold sweatshirt with a lion on it. “Here you go; I'll leave you in peace to change.” He stepped outside and closed the door quietly.

Hermione looked around the room, her heart beating a medium-sized staccato on her breastbone. Here she was, in his room. It seemed sensual for some odd reason, and she smiled like a little girl with a huge crush. She took off her shirt and slipped on his sweatshirt, realizing with ecstasy that it smelled faintly of him. She pulled her hair down and brushed it out before sticking her black beanie on her hazel curls. When she emerged, Harry was there waiting for her.

“Hey, you look good in my clothes!” Hermione blushed and punched his arm playfully. “Hey, watch it!” He put his hand on the base of her neck and kissed her with a passion. When he pulled away, she was left to breathlessly stare into his eyes. “Would you care for a walk in the winter wonderland?”

She nodded. “I'd like that a lot.” He took her hand and they went outside once more.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

As they walked through the fields surrounding Harry's castle, the snow began to fall softly. The bright white crystals of ice shone in Harry's hair and peppered Hermione's highlights. Harry watched her smiling face with joy. She was beautiful, her cheeks radiant from the cold. He wanted to tell her, but how?

“Uhh, Hermione?” She tilted her head towards him enticingly. “You—you're it!”

She looked at him puzzled, until he threw some snow at her. She screamed in surprise before her retaliation. “You're going down, Mr. Harry James Potter!”

“You've got to catch me first!” They ran about like fawn, chasing each other and thrusting snow back and forth. They paused only to build little forts and the real battle began. Harry wanted to go easy on her, but soon he found she was pulverizing him. They fought for an hour or more until they ran towards each other instantaneously in “surprise attacks” and collapsed against each other, breathless with giggles. They declared peace with a kiss and left their war grounds behind for the moment.

Ignoring the fact that they were enemies, they began to walk hand in hand towards the lily pond. Thanks to Harry's enchantment, the lily pond was luscious green despite its cold surroundings. They sat on the boulder for a moment, just watching the fish swimming about. Harry leaned over and pulled a tendril of hair away from Hermione's face. Without any explanation, he picked her up in his strong arms and carried her towards the house. She shrieked in protest.

“HARRY! What are you doing to me? Put me down this instant!”

He kissed her nose softly. “You're my Christmas Angel.” He laid her in the snow and lay down beside her. He began to make a snow angel, and she followed suit. “Sorry, but I never got to do this when I was little.”

Hermione looked into his eyes and was once again touched at how sweet and innocent he was. She leaned over to him and kissed him. He kissed her back with all he had in him. They continued to kiss until their kisses grew faster and more furious.

“Let's move this inside,” Harry gasped.

“Much-- too cold.”

They somehow managed to walk into the castle with their lips locked, and advanced to the den. Harry felt slightly nervous, but he swallowed his fears because of how he felt about the girl that was with him. They sat down on the couch and kissed more. Harry picked Hermione up and set her on his lap. He felt her tongue in his mouth, and he thrust his out to meet hers.

After a very long make-out session, Harry and Hermione sat on the couch in silence, staring into the fire. Harry was partially lying on his back on the plushy red couch. Hermione was lying on top of him, her hair brushing under his chin. It was a very weird feeling for Harry, who had never had a beard or any facial hair, for that matter. Her hand rested right above his heartbeat, and he absent-mindedly stroked her hair with the hand he wasn't using to hold her hand. By this time, the sky had turned black, and the only light was from the fire's flickering flame.

As Harry lay there with Hermione, he couldn't help but realize that that exact moment in time was the best he'd ever felt in his life. There was no mistaking it—he loved Hermione, and if he told her there was no going back. And yet, those three simple words were so hard to say. He gave a sigh and put his finger under her chin to tilt her head up. She looked at him with her chocolate eyes and his heart melted. He felt her heart beating against his body in a place that was driving him crazy with what he wanted to say—what he needed to say.

“What is it, Harry?”

“'Mione. I know this is silly in a way, but I have to say it. I tried to earlier today, but…”

“What do you have to say?”

“I-I love you, Hermione. You're the best thing that's ever happened to me. You're beautiful and perfect, and you're all I've ever wanted.”

She looked at him with eyes full of emotion. “Do you really mean that?”

“From the bottom of my heart, yes.”

“I love you, too, Har.” She kissed him softly and sweetly. “And I love it when you call me `Mione.”

Harry smiled shyly. They lay in silence, playing with each other's hands and staring into the fire. After a long time, the grandfather clock in the corner gave twelve chimes. Harry leaned down and whispered in Hermione's thick hazel locks. “Happy Christmas, `Mione.” She didn't hear him, though, because she was fast asleep. Harry pulled a blanket over the two of them and smiled sleepily before looking at the fire, muttering a charm under his breath so the fire would not leave the hearth, and fell asleep.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

The next morning, Hermione woke up slowly. She realized that she wasn't in her own clothes and was surrounded by someone. Also, a familiar scent was everywhere around her, and-

Harry.

She opened her eyes in surprise and saw that she had fallen asleep with Harry. Light flooded through the window, and she jerked up in surprise, waking Harry.

“Hermione, what's wrong?”

“Oh, my gosh! I just spent the night here, and-and, I slept with you! Oh, no I don't mean that, but…”

Harry chuckled and put his finger on her lips to quiet her. “It's okay, Hermione. You did nothing wrong, and I would never do that with you, well, unless you wanted me to.” He gave her a devilish grin and she fell, frustrated, back onto his chest. “Happy Christmas, Hermione.”

She laughed. “Happy Christmas to you, too!”

He enveloped her in a hug. “I would give you your Christmas present now, but I think I'd rather wait for tonight.” Hermione looked at him and gave a little pout.

“Oh, alright, if you insist!” She rolled her eyes and burst into laughter. “I'm just joking, dear. You really didn't need to get me anything.”

“Yes, I did. Plus, the thing that you're getting is something you really want.”

“Oh really?”

“Really.”

He kissed her once more and they got up and headed towards the kitchen.

“What would you like to eat for breakfast, ma cherie?”

“Well, it's sort of silly, but…”

“Anything you desire.”

“Before Mum died, we would always make and eat gingerbread men for breakfast. It was very unhealthy, I'm sure, but it was so much fun, we couldn't help ourselves.”

“Gingerbread men it is.” He put on an apron and tossed Hermione one before going to the pantry and gathering all the ingredients they would need. He came back and plopped everything down on the counter. “Okay, then! What do we do first?”

“Well, we blend the butter and sugar until creamy.”

Harry finished this task with a wooden spoon he had pulled from the nearest drawer.

“Beat in the Molasses.”

“Sift flour, spices, salt and soda and add to the butter mixture, alternately with the water.” Harry grabbed the flour bag at the same time Hermione did. The bag burst open and they were soon covered head to toe in flour. Hermione gave a little cough, and flour came from her mouth. Harry started to laugh from the hilarity of it all and he touched Hermione's nose, revealing one spot of flesh in all the flour. His laughter was contagious, and soon Hermione was laughing, too. They finished making the cookies and put them in the oven, all the time eyes tearing up with laughter.

When the gingerbread men began to bake, their laughter ceased and they realized how messy they were.

“Oh, dear. When I get home, I'm taking a shower and getting all this flour out of my hair and body.” Hermione ran her fingers through her hair and white powder puffed out.

“You could shower here, if you want. You could borrow another one of my sweatshirts and some sweats until you can get dressed in your own stuff at home.”

“Are you sure you don't mind?”

“No. Hermione, I love you so much. What's mine is yours. Maybe, sometime in the future, we'll wake up like this everyday, only there will be no panicked guilt like there was this morning.” Hermione blushed.

“Alright, I guess I will.”

“You'll find everything you need upstairs.”

While she showered in the bathroom off his room, he went to the bathroom he had renovated by magic near the underground dungeon-like chamber. He finished long before Hermione and dressed in blue jeans and an emerald turtleneck sweater. He charmed the flour away and pulled the cookies out of the oven just as Hermione stepped into the kitchen. He almost dropped the cookie sheet when he saw her.

The way her hair was pulled up and her neck was exposed, the way his sweatshirt hugged her body in just the right places, the way the sweat pants hung low on her hips revealing the soft, warm flesh of her stomach—she looked sexy and very sensual.

“Well, you look very nice, Harry.”

“Uh, well, same to you.”

“Oh, posh. Your clothes don't exactly make me look like a model.”

“No, but, well, you look sexy.” Hermione blushed but gave a devilish grin.

“Truth be told, you are very sexy when your eyes shine that bright and your hair's all tousled.” She advanced towards him and ran her hands through his short, jet-black hair. “Let's eat these gingerbread men quick before we do something we'll regret.”

“I'm with you on that one.” They quickly devoured the poor little men and left for Hermione's house. Before they left, Harry went to his bedroom, grabbed a long slender envelope with a box beside it, and smuggled it out in his coat.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Later that evening, Melba joined Harry and Hermione for a small Christmas feast. Hermione wore a form-fitting black sweater that she wore just to tease Harry. That morning had been the first time that their relationship had become more sensual than just kissing.

The threesome ate a delicious meal before exchanging gifts. Harry had knitted a scarf and mitten set for Melba (who knew he could knit?). Hermione gave Melba a picture album of all the things they had done together. Melba gave Harry a black sweater that he put on immediately.

Harry knew it was time to give Hermione her present at last. He looked at Melba and winked; she had been in on his plan. He pulled both the box and the envelope out of his coat.

“'Mione, Happy Christmas! I love you.” She took both items from his outstretched hand and looked at him curiously.

“What would you like me to open first?”

“The envelope. There will be further instructions inside.”

She slowly opened the envelope and pulled out a piece of parchment.

December 25th

Dearest Hermione,

Happy Christmas to you! And a Happy Christmas it is for me, because you're with me now. I love you, `Mione, and I just want to thank you for loving me in return. You've showed me so much and I've never felt stronger about anyone than I do about you. You are really the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to me, and I love you so much that it hurts.

This letter also contains instructions. Right now, I want you to open the little box that you are most likely holding in your other hand, fingering it softly as you read this.

Sure enough, she was softly toying the velvet box. She looked at Harry watching her, and she slowly opened the box. Inside was a beautiful ring with two stones, one diamond and one cobalt, with a gold heart in the middle. She looked at Harry curiously and he motioned for her to put it on. She slipped the cool metal onto her ring finger and continued to read.

This ring is a promise ring. I promise you that I will love you forever and for always, and that no matter what happens I will never leave you or forsake you. I love you, and I hope you think of me every time you see this ring on your finger.

Your second gift is in the envelope. Enclosed, you will find a test. I want all your dreams to come true, and this test is the transcript to get back into college for the two classes you need to finish. I have arranged everything for your testing time, and I want you to take this. I know you will make it, because you are the smartest person I know, my Brilliant Hermione.

She looked up and gasped, placing her hand over her mouth. She looked at Harry through her teary eyes and her face beamed.

“Oh, Harry! Thank you so much!” She ran to him and threw her arms around him, clutching the letter tightly in her fist.

“Look at the testing note in the envelope.”

This test is to be taken by Hermione Jane Granger in an attempt to complete course one of British Literature and the final course of her nursing degree. Please fill out and return by January 10th of this year.

“Oh, Harry.” She breathed again. “This is the sweetest thing anyone has ever done for me!”

“I love you, Hermione, and I want to make all your dreams come true.”

Hermione wiped away her tears and laughed at the sight of Melba sobbing behind them.

“It's so sweet, you two! I love you guys!” She gave them a huge hug and they stifled their laughter.

Hermione broke away first and ran to get a huge package from beneath the tree. “Here's your present Harry. I know it's nothing compared to what you've given me, but…”

“I'm sure I'll love it dearly.” He opened the card on top and read it aloud, to show Hermione that he truly cared. “To Harry, the most wonderful man alive. I love you so much! From, Hermione. I know this isn't much, but I found it in my mother's things and it made me think of you immediately. With love,”

He unwrapped the box and opened it with a gasp. Inside the box lay a medieval shield made of iron. On the front of the shield was the Hogwarts crest in gold and jewels.

“Oh, Hermione! It's wonderful and it means so much more that this was your mother's.” He gave her a tight squeeze, his face glowing with happiness. “But, where did your mother get this?”

“I'm not sure, but it's in a chest of things from her school days. I think it has something to do with her school, and it reminded me of all the artifacts in your main hall.”

“I love it. Thank you, Hermione.” He gave her a kiss and Melba sighed. She went to the window in an attempt to give them privacy when there was a knock at the door. They all went to see who it was and was greeted by a group of carolers.

“God rest ye, merry gentlemen!

Let nothing you dismay,

Remember Christ our Savior was born on Christmas Day!

To save us all from Satan's power when we were gone astray,

O-oh, tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy!

O-oh tidings of comfort and joy!”

As Harry held Hermione in his arms, he felt comfort and joy for the first time in a long time. This was perfect; everything in his life right now, but something in the back of his mind wouldn't leave him alone. How did Milea get a Hogwarts shield? Was Milea actually a witch—and if so, where did that leave Hermione?

A/N: Hahahahaha, I feel evil leaving it with no sense of closure! Not quite a cliffie, but close. Merry Christmas to all! Oh, BTW, the reason that Hermione didn't finish those two classes is because she quit school to help Milea as she was dying, and because of bills and such, she never returned. Anyways, Here's the recipe for the gingerbread men as I got it off of Cooks.com . I haven't tried it yet, but if any of ya'll want to, be my guest.

GINGERBREAD MEN

1/4 c. butter
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. dark molasses
3 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 c. water

Blend butter and sugar until creamy. Beat in the molasses. Sift flour, spices, salt and soda and add to the butter mixture, alternately with the water. Roll dough to make gingerbread men, women, children houses or even bears. Bake in a preheated oven for 8 minutes.

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8. Do You Believe in Magic?

A/N: Happy Holidays, everyone! Thanks for all that reviewed over Chapter 7! Only three chapters to go! Right now, I'm gonna answer the number one question I've been asked: Where do you get the idea for the things in your story? Answer: Almost everything in this story is based on reality, inspired by the sweet guys in my life and the sweet things they do. This story is for them.

Disclaimer: I don't own this, just the precious memories I put into the heart of this story.

Until you can see what I see, you cannot feel what I feel.

Chapter 8:

As the time for Hermione's test taking drew nearer and nearer, she began to study almost religiously. She took her books to study with her to work and thumbed through them every time she had the chance. The fact that she had both text books completely memorized cover-to-cover didn't matter to her--she always had to study for just one more minute, one more hour, one more night. The time that she and Harry spent together was diminished, but their love held strong.

One cold day after the turn of the year, Harry was sitting in Hermione's apartment at the kitchen table, across from his flustered girlfriend. She rapidly flipped pages while she reminded Harry in a high-pitched voice that she was taking the test in only three days. Harry laughed and patted her hand.

“Hermione, you're brilliant. You really needn't worry about this test. I'm sure you will pass with the highest score possible.”

“You really think so?”

He smiled reassuringly. “I know so.”

She sighed. “I hope you're right.”

He took her hand in his and led her away from her worries and books. He held her in his arms and kissed her softly, melting her worries away. They went to the den and lay down on the couch like they had at Harry's house on Christmas Eve and fell soundly asleep.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

On the morning that Hermione was scheduled to take the entrance exam, Harry arrived at her house with a thermos of hot chocolate. He knew that she didn't have a lot of confidence, so he had drained the rest of his Felix Felicis in the steaming chocolate. She drank it quietly, and he knew she was reciting the textbook over again. He laughed and hugged her before escorting her to his car to take her to the testing facility.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Hermione couldn't believe how easy the test was. As she took it, she was amazed at how easily the answers came to her. She turned her test in forty-five minutes before the time limit. The lady at the front gave her a note that said that they would call with the test results within three to five days, and Hermione couldn't help but smile as she walked outside to Harry's car.

“How did it go?”

“Absolutely splendidly! It was almost as though I had the whole textbook there the whole time!”

“I told you you could do it.”

“I just hope I did good enough.”

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Three days later, Harry awoke to a ferocious pounding on his door. He got out of bed groggily and went to the door. To his surprise, Hermione was standing outside, her face beaming. She jumped in as soon as the door was opened and hugged Harry as tight as she could.

“Oh, Harry! I'm in and I made the highest grade the school has ever seen!”

Harry couldn't have been prouder of her.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Hermione's classes began two and a half weeks later. Harry had purchased all her textbooks despite her modest cries of stubbornness. She only had a year to go, but Harry knew he would miss seeing her as much as he normally did. During her first week of school, he faithfully got up every morning and drove her to school, savoring each moment of watching her finish getting ready in the car. After he dropped her off, though, his life took on the same monotony it used to have.

One day, about a month after Hermione started school, Harry was lounging around his house when something began to bother him. Some thought had occurred to him sometime around Christmas, and he could not remember what it was. He had the strange feeling that it had something to do with Hermione, but he couldn't put his finger on it.

His determination to remember his thoughts lasted up until after lunch. He had just eaten a bowl of macaroni and cheese and was walking through the main hall. He hadn't been in the main hall for several days since he normally parked his car in the back. On this particular day, though, something in the main hall caught his eye. The sun was unusually bright that morning, and the sunbeams reflected off something very large and shiny.

The shield.

Harry rushed towards the mounted shield and studied it carefully. It was the Hogwarts crest, there was no denying that, but how was that possible? Hermione had said that the shield had been her mother's. Did that mean her mother was a witch? If so, why had Hermione never told him? His hand shook as he slowly traced the crest with his forefinger. He could ask Hermione, but if his ideas were completely wrong, he would end up betraying the wizarding world. Ron would only make matters worse, but… Minerva.

Minerva was the headmistress at Hogwarts; she had been since Harry's seventh year. She'd know if there had been a Milea at Hogwarts—it wasn't a very common name. He rushed to his fireplace and pulled an ancient spittoon from the hearth. He grabbed some floo powder from it, shouted for McGonagal's office, and stuck his head in the fire. The warm sensation of the flames tickled his nostrils as his head swirled about, making him sneeze. A few moments later, his head flickered in the headmistress's fireplace.

Minerva looked up from her desk with a start. She ran towards the fire at the sight of Harry's floating head.

“Why, Mr. Potter! What brings you here today in my fireplace?”

“Professor, would you mind if I came up there fully in about half an hour? I need to talk to you about something important.”

“Of course. Why didn't you just come immediately? You know you don't have to ask to visit Hogwarts.”

“I'm waiting to pick Hermione up from school. After I take her home, I'll be back!”

“Oh, all right. The password is `honeysuckle'.”

“Thanks! Good-bye, Professor.” His head popped out of the flames, leaving the headmistress baffled.

“Who in Merlin's name is Hermione?”

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Harry picked Hermione up right as the final bell rang. She got into the car and he drove off almost before she could close her door.

“Goodness, Harry! What's wrong?”

Harry turned to her at the stoplight and touched her face softly. “Hermione, love, I'm sorry but something really important came up back at my old school, and I have to get up there as soon as I can.”

“Why do you have to go?”

“I'm, uh, on the board of directors.” As he said this, he looked briefly to his left and immediately to the right. Hermione grabbed his hand.

“Harry, looking to the left is a sign that you're lying, and looking to the right shows that you're worried about something of the past. What are you really doing?”

Harry looked at her goggle-eyed. “How do you know this stuff?”

“I read. Really, Harry. Please trust me.”

“Hermione, I promise you that after today I will never lie to you again, but what I'm doing is incredibly confidential and I can not tell you right now. I promise I'll tell you as soon as I possibly can. I'm sorry, but I don't want to hurt you. Are you okay with that?”

She looked at him for a moment before sighing. “Okay, Harry. I really shouldn't, but I will trust you this once.”

“Thank you, love.” He leaned over and kissed her softly, holding her hand the whole way to her apartment.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

True to his word, Harry arrived at the huge entrance to Hogwarts exactly thirty minutes later. Classes were in session, so there were no students around to goggle at him. After all, he was their hero and savior of their world. He walked down the abandoned corridors, waving to a few ghosts, until he reached the headmistress's office. He gave the gargoyle the password and went up the moving staircase. When he entered the office, McGonagal was sitting at the desk with her arms crossed in front of her.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Potter. I must say, I have been wondering as to the urgency of our meeting.”

“Oh, yes, Professor. I was wondering, well, I was wondering if I could ask a favor of you?”

“Certainly, you have a right, saving us all in the Great Battle.” Harry blushed. “What can I do for you?”

“I need to know if there was ever a student named Milea at Hogwarts. She would be about the age of my parents, if they were alive, and her last name after marriage is Granger.”

“Does this have anything to do with, uh, Hermione?”

“Well, yes.”

“Pray tell, who is Hermione?”

“She's my girlfriend. She's also a muggle with an uncanny knowledge of magical happenings. For Christmas, she gave me a shield that her mother owned that had the Hogwarts crest on it, and I was wondering if, well, hoping—“

“That she was a witch so that your beloved may be able to find a place in the wizarding world for your future.”

“Something like that.”

“Well, I remember teaching more than one Mileas, but let me see what I can do.” She walked over to a room off her office and Harry slowly followed. He gasped as he saw the sheer size of the room. It was at least two stories tall and covered wall to wall in cabinets and books.

“What is this place?”

“This,” she held her arm out towards all the papers, “Is the official library of Hogwarts's records. We have every student ever to be taught here on file. For instance,” She flicked her wand towards a newer stack of cabinets. A file flew out into her outstretched arm. “Harry James Potter. Education: Completed. Job: None/ Millionaire. Highest Accomplishment: Defeating You-Know-Who in the Final Battle. There you are, if this Milea ever attended Hogwarts, all her records and history will be here.” She motioned for him to begin to search. He waved his wand and muttered Milea's name. To his surprise, seven files flew at him. Minerva looked at him and gave him a rare smile. “There you are, Potter. Look through these all you want.” She turned and went back to her office, leaving Harry in peace.

Two of the files were from the early 1500's; Harry put those far off to the side. The remaining five were more modern, and Harry settled down to read. The first Milea had died from a faulty spell right out of Hogwarts—that wasn't what he was looking for. The next two were still living and worked for small muggle shops selling coffee mugs. No, that was not it, either. The next one was still attending Hogwarts.

Harry sighed and looked at the pile of misses. Hopefully, after reading this last file, he would finally discover the truth. He touched the parchment of the last file and his fingers tingled in excitement. If Milea had been a witch, Hermione might be one, too, and then he wouldn't ever worry again about spilling in front of her.

He slowly opened the file and pulled out the parchment inside. He closed his eyes tightly and made a wish before reading the words across the page.

Milea Jane Powers (Granger)

His heart leaped. He had found her! He placed his hand over his heart before reading the file.

Daughter of Aegina and Nicholas Powers (both muggles)

Education: Completion of Hogwarts

History: Milea was both prefect and Head Girl while at Hogwarts. She achieved top honors in her classes and was known for her incredible transformation skills. She married a muggle, Stephen, right out of Hogwarts. One year later, their only child was born, a daughter. Milea told Stephen about the wizarding world and he left her for a muggle in the performing arts. Times were dark, and Milea left the only world she knew to protect her daughter. Her daughter was raised in ignorance of the wizarding world. She has shown no particular magical talent, although she is unusually bright. Milea worked as a waitress to support her small family, swearing to block out all magic. Sixteen years after her daughter was born, she contracted the muggle disease of leukemia. She died two years later after refusing to take any wizard remedies. She is remembered for her beauty and grace, her intelligence, and the loving sacrifice she made for her daughter to protect her from evil.

Harry read the file in amazement. Milea had been a witch, but Hermione wasn't. It was as simple as that. He was glad that he had found her history, but something inside him hurt a little bit with the realization that Hermione would never fully experience everything he did. If anyone deserved a little magic in their lives, it was Hermione. He gathered the file up and walked slowly back into Minerva's office. He walked in and put the file in front of her.

“Well?”

“Milea was a witch, but Hermione's not.”

She looked at him sympathetically before thumbing through the file. “Of course, Milea Powers! Oh, she was one of the best students I've ever taught.”

“Isn't there something I could do?”

“What do you mean?”

He stood up angrily. “How can she have no magic in her if her mother was one of the brightest witches ever? If anyone deserved magic, it's Hermione, and no matter what happens in our life together, she'll never fully experience everything I will.” He sat back down, frustrated with the world. McGonagal leaned across the desk and patted his hand gently.

“She does have magic in her blood, everyone who's related to a witch or wizard does.”

“Then why can she not see what I see or feel what I feel?”

“Sometimes, people who possess magic never have enough magic to find the power to bring that magic to life. However, well…”

“What?”

“You'd have to talk with the Minister of Magic, Arthur Weasley, but, I may have a way to bring that magic in Hermione out, but it may take a sacrifice on your part.”

“I'll do anything for her!”

“Alright then. Here's what we'll have to do. Note that it may not work, but…”

“What do I have to do?”

Minerva advanced to tell Harry her plan, unsure of how he'd take it. When she finished, the beam on his face told her that he loved the idea.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Two days later, Harry drove silently to Hermione's apartment, trying to summon the courage to finally tell her the truth. As the car stopped, he carefully fingered the package in his pocket. He walked to her door and knocked twice. She opened it and smiled at him, making his heart pound harder.

“Oh, Harry! You're back! I missed you so much!”

“I missed you, too. I really need to talk to you about some stuff. Do you think we could go to the park?”

“Sure! Let me get my coat.”

Hermione was beautiful to Harry. He knew that his sacrifice would be worth it, but what if she refused? Thinking about it as he stood at her threshold, he began to wonder if Minerva's idea was so great after all.

As they drove to the park, Hermione chattered on about her classes. Harry was glad that she filled the silence. He was waiting to talk until they reached the park and was scared of what to say.

They got to the park and Harry opened Hermione's door as always. He took her by the hand and he led her to a park bench in the middle of the park. Hermione smiled softly as she realized that this was the place where they had first met. Harry motioned for her to sit, and she sat beside him, leaning against him for warmth. They sat in each other's presence for a moment before Harry spoke.

“Hermione, I love you so much.”

“Yes. I love you, too.”

“Do you believe in magic?”

She gave him an odd look, wondering where his random question had come from.

“Yes, I suppose. I would like to think that there is magic out there. Yet sometimes, things are so horrid that it's hard to believe. Why do you ask?”

“I swore that I would never lie to you again; now I have to tell you my huge secret. I know you may not believe this, but your mother was a true-to-life witch.”

Hermione looked furious. “Why I—“ She pushed away from Harry.

“No, no, please listen. It's not an insult, because, well you see, I'm a—I'm a—a”

“A what?” She said, her voice edging on hysterics.

“I'm a wizard.”

She looked at him incredulously.

“The school that your mum went to, Hogwarts? That's where I went to school, that's where Ron went to school, that's where Ginny and Neville and Lavender and Seamus and Luna went. Hogwarts is a school for witchcraft and wizardry. All of us are wizards.”

“I don't believe you.”

“What?”

“If my mother was a--a witch why did she never tell me? If she could do magic tricks, why did she die from leukemia?!?”

“Because, well, here!” He pulled his hair up and revealed his scar. “There was a really bad wizard named Voldemort and he murdered a bunch of very good magical folk! Times were dark and your mum left the wizarding world to protect you! Then Voldemort murdered my parents and he tried to kill me, but he didn't succeed! More bad stuff happened until I killed him when I was eighteen! Yes, I killed him, but by doing so I rid the wizarding world of the evil that your mother left to protect you from! Where do you think she got all those stories about firewhisky, mediwitches, and all that other stuff? It's not a fairy tale, it's all reality.”

Hermione looked at him, her shining face now pale. She glared at Harry and he could see her shaking.

“'Mione, I promise you…”

“Don't call me `Mione. I can't believe you, Harry Potter. I trusted you, I even told you about mum! And you, you used all the stories I told you to try to make a fool of me!” She viciously pulled the promise ring off of her finger and threw it at Harry. “I thought you were better than all the other men, but I see now I was wrong.” She walked away in the cold, leaving Harry alone and stunned on the park bench. She was so angry that she couldn't see straight and hot tears began to flow from her eyes. She ran as quickly as she could to her house and ran inside, locking the door behind her and locking the door to her heart once again.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Harry went back to his mansion feeling lower than dirt. He had blown it, and had lost the best thing that had ever happened to him as a result. He walked into the library and lit the fire with a wave of his wand and instantly felt energy drained from his body. He slumped over on the couch as tears filled his eyes. He had sacrificed so much and was feeling lonelier than ever in his huge stone castle, and even though Hermione had hurt him, he couldn't stop loving her; he'd never stop loving her.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

That night, Hermione lit a lamp and headed for her attic storage area. After she got home, she had cried and eaten a whole pint of ice cream. As she sat in her big squishy chair, Harry's words rang in her ears.

I'm a wizard.

It couldn't be.

Your mother was a true-to-life witch.

It did explain her stories, but no!

It just simply wasn't possible.

There was her mother's school trunk, though.

Hermione had quickly changed into pajamas for comfort and headed for the attic. She had found the shield in a box by the trunk, but she had never actually looked in the trunk itself. If Harry's words were true, there would be proof in the trunk. If he had lied, she could stop hating herself for what she said and never trust another man as long as she lived.

As she reached the tiny attic storage, a soft rain began to fall on the window.

Appropriate.

She sat the lamp down on an old roll top desk and knelt beside the huge, black trunk. She blew the dust off the top and read the inscription.

This trunk belongs to Milea Jane Powers, Ravenclaw House.

Hermione undid the locks and pulled the trunk open. The top was littered with papers and notes. All of them were notes to and from friends who had apparently gone to school with Milea, talking about muggles, love potions, and giant squids. Below the notes were carefully organized folders. Hermione took the one farthest to the left and read the title: Herbology, Year 7. Her heart pounded as she took the next folder and saw its title of “Transfiguration, Year 4.” All the folders had strange names like “Potions” and “Care of Magical Creatures.” Hermione thumbed through them all, reading essays in her mother's writing over “The Unnecessary Witch Burnings of Salem” and “How to Transfigure Beetles into Buttons.”

As Hermione read, she began to cry. This was her mother's world, the mystery behind her smile. Harry's words were real, and she had called him a liar and left him. She could never go back now and tell him that she had been wrong—he was probably so mad at her that he'd just turn away. She reached into the trunk again and pulled out a long, slender box. She opened it to reveal a long, magic wand made of oak. She pulled it out and swished it around foolishly. Nothing happened, and she cried harder as the rain fell faster, hugging the wand to her heart and hating herself for all that she had said and done.

A/N: Oh, I am evil! So now Hermione knows Harry's secret! Oh, oh! How will they get back together?!? What was Harry's sacrifice?!? Will our favorite couple be able to withstand this new drawback?!? Well, I know the answer to all this and more, but you'll have to wait to find out! Heehee

KatieBug

P.S. The more reviews I have, the more willing I will be to update!

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9. Sacrifice for You/ I Believe

A/N: Hello everybody! After my little rebelliously evil spurt in last chapter, I started chapter nine right away! It may be a little short, but I promised ten chapters, and by golly, we're gonna have ten chapters! So, now that they are separated but still very much in love, how will they get back together? Read on!
P.S. Chapter ten will just be a kinda epilogue sorta deal, so this is the final chapter of the main part of this story. But please, read the epilogue when it's posted!

LittleKatieBug

Chapter 9:

Time passed slowly; a week felt like a lifetime to Harry. He had never been more miserable in his life. After all, he had experienced life and love to the fullest and he had lost it right after he had made the biggest sacrifice of his life. He spent hours pacing his house while he tortured himself with the what ifs.

What if I had told her more gently?

What if I hadn't failed to take her to school for a few days?

What if I had listened more attentively in the car?

Hermione felt horrible, too. She was back in her routine life at the Bison Witch, but she no longer sang as she worked and the light was gone from her eyes. Melba noticed Hermione's changed attitude but never said anything about it. She had seen the empty spot on Hermione's hand from the missing promise ring, and she refrained from asking any questions until Hermione was ready to talk.

A week after the breakup, Hermione finished her work and burst into tears. Melba held her close and rocked her back and forth until she stopped crying.

“Do you need to talk, dearie?” Hermione nodded miserably and plopped down on a seat at the counter.

“Melba, he was perfect. He was everything that I've ever wanted, everything I've ever hoped for. The whole time I was with him, my life was exactly like the fairy tale I hoped it would be. A week ago, he told me something in the hope that I would believe him. He was really nice and explained everything, but I lost my cool and said some things I shouldn't have and then I gave him the promise ring back and told him I never wanted to see him again.”

“Oh, dear.”

“Later, I realized what he said was completely true, but I can't go back and ask him to take me back, because I just know he never would, and I'd just be broken again.”

Melba leaned over and hugged Hermione, sniffing in an attempt to clear the tears from her eyes. Hermione had always dreamed of living in a fairy tale, and ever since Harry had come into her life, her dream was a reality. But now…

“I wish I could help you, dearie.”

“Maybe I'm just destined to be alone.”

Melba squeezed her harder, not knowing what to reply.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Ron looked across the table to Harry in amazement.

“Well, I, uh, well.”

“You don't have to say anything, mate. I blew it.”

“Uh, she's the one who walked away.”

“Oh, but I should have followed her, taken her into my arms and never let her go! I never even got the chance to do what I intended in the first place.” He pulled the little package out of his pocket and placed it on the table in front of Ron.

“Wow. That's ironic.”

“Yeah, but what's really ironic is this.” He told Ron all about the sacrifice he had made. When he finished, Ron was staring at him stupidly.

“You did that for her?”

“Yes, I did.”

“Why?”

“Ron, I love her. Even though she hates me right now, I still love her! That's why I will never stop carrying this package around! That's why I sacrificed what I did! Because I love her, and I'll never love anyone else! She was my first kiss, and I hope she's my last.”

The silence that followed hung in the air, as neither of the friends knew what to say.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

One month after their last horrible meeting in the park, Harry walked through the park and sat down on the same bench where it had all started—and ended. Spring had begun, and Harry slowly eased his coat off and draped it over the back of the bench. He looked off to the right and watched some little birds flit about, his mind lost in thoughts of her.

As he watched the birds, he felt someone sit on the bench next to him. He realized that he probably should turn and say hello to be polite, but he just couldn't bring himself to polite on this wretched day. He wanted to hex the whole world into oblivion, but he knew it would drain too much energy from him. He sighed and watched the birds fly away and perch on the fountain edge. As his head turned to watch them, he caught a small glimpse of brown, bushy hair from the corner of his eye.

Hermione.

His head jerked to the other side of the bench and saw Hermione sitting quietly watching him. He gasped in surprise and saw the look of fear on her face.

“Hermione,”

“Harry,”

They looked at each other for a moment before speaking simultaneously.

“I can explain—I'm so sorry—Please forgive me!”

Harry scooted closer to Hermione. “You go first.”

“O-okay. Harry.” She reached her hand out softly and touched his cheek. “I'm so, so sorry. I know now all that you said was completely true.”

“I should have told you more gently, it's my fault.”

“I never should have been so cruel to you, because the truth is, I love you, Harry. You're all that I've been able to think about this past month. You're everywhere to me, and I realize that no matter how long I live, I'm never going to love anyone more than I love you. Please forgive me.”

Harry looked at her and took her two hands in his. “Hermione, I forgive you, I always forgave you. Truth be told, this past month has been the worst time of my life, even worse than my worst most terrifying moments at Hogwarts. `Mione, I love you, and this month has proved to me that I can't live another day without you in my life, as long as I shall live. Hermione, I know that you may have doubts about my world, but I love you, and I hope that's enough.”

Harry stood up off of the bench and Hermione gasped and extended her arm. “Harry, I do believe in magic, and I'm willing to do anything to belong with you in your world!”

Harry looked her in the eye with a heart-melting look. “Well then, Hermione, will you do one thing?”

“Anything.”

He knelt down on one knee, still holding her hands. “Will you marry me?”

Hermione gasped again and began to cry. He reached into his pocket and grabbed the package he had carried around as she let go of one hand and covered her mouth in surprise.

“Yes.”

He opened the little box and pulled out a single diamond ring. He slipped the cool metal ring on her finger and she shivered in happiness. Harry stood up and put his hand in her thick brown hair.

“Positive?”

“More so than anything else in the world.” He pulled her lips to his and kissed her firmly. As their lips touched, warmth spread throughout her body, making her tingle. They continued to kiss until she felt herself being lifted slowly into the air.

“HARRY! What's happening to me?!”

She felt heat coming off of her body as she levitated inches off of the ground. The tingling sensation spread throughout her body, and she fell back to the ground, caught in Harry's arms.

“Oh, my gosh! What just happened to me?”

“You're a witch now.”

“What? H-how is that possible?”

“You already possessed some magic, and well, I'm one of the most powerful wizards in the world.”

“So…?”

“I knew that marriage between a muggle and a wizard would be difficult, because even though we would be united, we could never be truly one. You would never see what I saw and therefore would never really feel what I felt. So I gave half of my magic to you.”

She looked at him, dumbfounded. “You did that for me?” He nodded. “But…why?”

“I love you, `Mione. I promised you I'd make all your dreams come true somehow.”

She looked at him again, this time with tears shining in her brown eyes. She pulled his mouth to hers and kissed him again, passionately. This time, both felt the magic, and Hermione knew for certain that magic really did exist.

A/N: Sigh, wow that was sweet (I thought it was, anyways). I know the cynical people will review and say that it would never be possible, but that's been my plan the whole story, and you're just gonna have to live with it. Chapter 10 will be up soon, it's gonna be an epilogue of sorts. Sorry this one was shorter than the rest, but I like this story and I loved writing it and I loved the way it turned out. Please review!

Little_Katie_Bug09

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10. Happily Ever After

A/N: Hey, everybody. Here we are, finally, at the end of this tale. Thanks to everyone who has been reading this faithfully and reviewing, and thanks, mainly, to my guys, for whom I give all credit for my romance writing. It's been fun writing this; hope you all have liked it! Please read and review for this final time, and please look for my next story, She Loves You. Thanks,

Little_Katie_Bug09

Chapter 10:

Five months later, an article appeared in The Daily Prophet:

Boy-Who-Lived to Marry Muggle-Turned-Witch in Glorious Ceremony

Harry Potter, Boy-Who-Lived, is not quite a boy anymore.

Mr. Potter announced Friday that he is engaged to be married. The lucky bride-to-be is Miss Hermione Granger, previously a muggle. Hermione's mother was a witch who was known for her beauty, grace, and intelligence. Hermione, despite her extreme intelligence, was dubbed a squib.

“I possessed some magic in my blood,” said the blushing bride during the press conference, “But not enough to actually do magic.”

Harry first met Hermione at a muggle coffee shop called the Bison Witch Café. Their relationship continued to grow until Christmas, when Harry first suspected her mother was a witch. He discovered that her mother, Milea Powers-Granger, had attended Hogwarts and been awarded top honors. Harry tried to tell Hermione the truth about her mother a few days after his discovery, but to his surprise, she fled.

“I guess I just didn't believe it was possible for there to be magic in this cruel, hard world. I now see I was wrong.” The couple split up for approximately a month before fate led them back to each other. They made up and, to Hermione's surprise, Harry got down on one knee and proposed to her.

“It was amazing. Apparently he had been prepared to propose to me the day that he told me the truth about my mother, but I had run away too soon.”

This was only the first of Hermione's surprises. When Harry kissed her to `seal the deal', half of his magic was transferred to her.

“I knew that if she was a muggle and I was the most powerful wizard in the world that life would be difficult together. I knew that we could never truly be one until she could see what I saw and experience what I knew to be true. I love her, and I want the world to know it.”

But will giving up some of his magic have any effect on our savior? Minister of Magic Arthur Weasley assures us that Harry is not changed by the experience.

“True, he'll never be as powerful as he was in his prime with You-Know-Who, but he had such a strong amount of magic in him that he's still one of the most powerful wizards, despite the fact that half of his magic is gone.”

“I have a lot to learn about the magical world, but Harry's helping me step by step and will help me go all the way to be the most successful witch I can be.” Hermione told us as tears filled her brown eyes.

Minerva McGonagal, Headmistress of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, helped Harry in his quest for Milea's history and is helping Hermione with some simple spell work.

“I do believe we may expect great things from the future Potters. They love each other very much and make each other happy. I wouldn't be surprised if they form an unstoppable force when performing magic together.”

The couple will be wed on August the twenty eighth at an undisclosed location. We at The Daily Prophet wish them the best of luck in their wedding and future together.

“I always dreamed that my life would be like a fairy-tale (a muggle set of children's stories to excuse magic). With Harry, my dream is coming true.”

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Hermione folded the paper with a smile and placed it neatly on the table. The article had turned out splendidly and in less than seven hours, she would be Mrs. Hermione Jane Potter. She gave a little shiver of glee and left the table. Ginny, Luna, and Lavender were helping her get ready for the ceremony. Her dress was a pure white silk with a long train. Small shining pearls were weaved above the waistline along with rose petals. Her veil was soft and just as white, with small diamonds enchanted into the fabric.

Upstairs, Ron's mother fixed her hair with a swish of her wand and styled it in an up-do with small white roses laced between. The charm Mrs. Weasley cast had straightened Hermione's hair perfectly. Ginny, Luna, and Lavender squealed excitedly as they saw her hair. Hermione had become very close friends with them since she had become a witch and they were becoming thick as thieves. Ginny pulled her gently to the mirror and did her make-up meticulously.

As Hermione's bridesmaids, they rushed to the other room to get ready, leaving Hermione and Melba alone. Hermione slowly pulled the large, billowy dress out of its cover and placed it gently on the bed. Melba looked at it for a moment before bursting into tears. She hugged Hermione and stroked the back of her neck.

“My baby's getting married today, and she'll be leaving the Bison Witch to live with real witches.” Hermione quickly pulled her mother's wand out of her pocket and performed a quick waterproof spell on her face.

“Oh, Melba…” Hermione's voice wavered. “I'm going to miss you dreadfully, but I promise I won't completely leave you. In fact, if you wanted you could move along with us, even if you are a muggle.”

Melba wiped her eyes with a corner of her shirt. “No, no dear. I belong here in muggle London, here at the Bison Witch. Promise me you'll never leave me completely, though.”

“Promise. I could never leave you completely. Besides, well, Melba?”

“What is it, dearie?”

“Well, I was kind of wondering if, well, you know, if you didn't want to it's okay, I would understand, but…”

“Dear, what do you want to ask?”

“I was wondering if you'd mind if I called you `Mom'. It's a term more commonly used in America, and I know no one can ever replace my mum, but I love you, Melba, and you have truly been my Mom ever since my real mum died. If you don't like it, I completely understand, but…”

Melba's eyes teared up once again. “It would be an honor to be called Mom.” She hugged Hermione tightly again before breaking into sobs. “Oh, posh, I've got to go get ready!”

Hermione waved her wand again to clear up the puffiness and blotches on Melba's face from her crying and Melba ran to get ready with the other bridesmaids. Hermione slowly unzipped the long back of the dress and stepped in, shivering in ecstasy at the way the fabric rustled against her legs. She zipped it up again and held her breath as she turned towards the mirror. When she saw her reflection, she couldn't help but smile. She was beautiful, and for the first time in her life she felt beautiful and invincible. She now had friends and a Mom, was now a certified nurse in the muggle world and a real witch, and in mere hours she would be marrying the sweetest, most trustworthy man in the world.

She placed the veil over her head, gathered her bouquet of white roses and lilies in honor of Harry's mum, and headed to the door. Her bridesmaids were ready for the most part, and they gasped in awe when they saw her. They all hugged her as they finished perfecting their appearances, and all headed downstairs.

The wedding was being held at the lily pond outside of Harry's castle, where the couple would be living. Ron and Harry had decorated with magic, and the effect was beautiful. Shining alcoves were placed along a trail made of soft rose petals. The trees around the pond were hanging over the fifty or so chairs in the audience, and a small little platform was set up right beside the pond.

As the Canon in B began to play, the wedding precession lined up. Hermione's heart pounded as she stood alone. It seemed to take forever for everyone to be ushered in to the ceremony area, and Hermione began to feel nervous. She felt her mother's wand inside her huge bouquet and fingered it nervously. To her surprise, it became warm to the touch and released a blue vapor from the tip.

Hermione, love?

Was, that…? No, it couldn't be her mother's voice!

Yes, it's really me, my dear.

“Mum,” She whispered softly. “Where are you?”

Never mind that right now. You are so beautiful, darling. I love you, and I'm so proud of you right now. You're a part of my world now, and I just wish I could be there with you to be a part of this joyous day. Harry is the most amazing wizard ever, and I'm so happy that you two are together. His mother and I were friends, you know.

“Really?! I didn't know that!”

Yes. Lily and I are both ecstatic that you two are being wed today. She highly approves of you, by the way. We just wish that we could be there in person.

“Oh, I do too, Mum. I still love you and miss you so much. By the way, do you mind the fact that I am calling Melba `Mom'?”

Not a bit. I'm just thankful that she's there for you. Dear, it's almost time for you to go in, there's just a minute or two before time. I love you, dear. Never forget that.

“Wait! Where are you? Will I ever be able to talk to you again?”

I'm afraid this is the last time I will be able to speak to you, dear. Fear not, though. I will be with you always, I always have been. You're a lot like me, and you carry my legacy through you. During your wedding, Lily, James, and I will be watching you and Harry. I'll always be watching over you, when the sun beams across your face, that will be me. When you're having a bad day and a memory comes across your mind that makes you smile, that will be my doing. When the wind blows your hair, it will really be me sending you a kiss, and the love you will feel towards Harry and your children will be a direct line of the love I had and still have for you, my dear. I love you so much, Hermione.

The vapor whirled back into the wand, and Hermione felt tears spill from her eyes.

“Mum, please don't go quite yet. I miss you.” She whispered softly to the wand, but it was of no use. She softly brushed away her tears just as she heard the wedding march begin. She smiled nervously as the veil over the alcove was raised, revealing her to the audience. She slowly walked down the aisle with a certain confidence in her step that she knew had come from Milea. She looked to the platform and saw Harry standing front and center and watching her with love and admiration. She couldn't help but smile at how sexy he looked in a tuxedo.

Melba stood as Hermione's maid-of-honor while Ginny, Luna, and Lavender stood next to her. Ron was Harry's best man, something that had been Hermione's idea. She had forgiven Ron for their first meeting and now considered him one of her closest friends. Neville and Seamus stood by Harry, too. Arthur Weasley conducted the service. They repeated their vows before taking their wands, Harry's old, battered wand and Hermione's mother's, and magically binding them together for double power, even when they were apart. They exchanged wedding rings and kissed as Arthur announced their unity in front of the witnesses.

As Harry and Hermione were united as man and wife, a soft breeze blew over them and Hermione smiled. They gave a soft, emotional kiss, much like their first, and stood before their friends and the Lord as one. They walked back down the aisle arm in arm. Harry led Hermione to his old car, now grafittied with `Just Married', and opened the door for her. They drove to start their new lives together. As they drove down his driveway, Hermione looked at Harry and touched his arm gently.

“My fairy tale dreams have finally come true.”

And, as in most fairy tales, they lived happily ever after.

Fin

A/N: Okay, it's now finished! Please review and tell me what ya'll all think! I've had a great time writing this, and I hope you've enjoyed it as much as I have! Please look for more stories from me, because I'm not finished writing quite yet! Thanks to you all!

Little_Katie_Bug09

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