A/N: Sorry for the delayed update. Life has been busy over the past few days. I wanted some opinion on one thing. Very few reviewers hated Cho's character in the last chapter. All of you were concerned about Harry and Hermione but nobody (except one) called Cho 'evil'. I'd like to mention that Cho plays a FULLY negative role in the story. If you think I'm being too nice to her let me know. I want everyone to hate her. If you are a fan of Cho, I'm sorry. A lot happens in this chapter. There are Harry/Hermione and Ron/Luna moments. So the shippers will have a field day. Please leave a review after you read. All those who reviewed before… Thank you.
Chapter Thirteen: Manipulation and Consequence
Over the next few days Harry's Quidditch practice with Cho continued. He wasn't enjoying it one bit but luckily Cho didn't keep him very long. He was constantly irritated by her talkative nature. It seemed as if she wanted to chat rather than play. He remembered Hermione's words and never let her get him angry. As far as possible he answered in monosyllables or single sentences. However one day Cho asked him to stay back after practice.
"I've got something for you. I remember how much you like chocolates. My mum sent me some homemade chocolates. I saved some for you," said Cho, opening her bag to take out the chocolates. Harry did not want to spend time eating chocolates with Cho but he was touched by her generosity. He didn't have the heart to refuse her.
"That's nice of you Cho," he said. Cho smiled at him, handing him a few pieces of chocolates. As Harry ate the chocolates he couldn't help feeling he'd eaten them sometime before. He saw Cho laughing at him.
"Is there something wrong with me?" he asked questioningly.
"There's chocolate on cheek. Wait! I'll fix it," replied Cho. With her thumb she rubbed Harry's cheek, near the lips lingering a little longer than intended.
"Took you a long time to 'fix' it," commented Harry. Cho just shrugged. After finishing the chocolates Harry took leave. Cho wanted to laugh. It was so easy to fool people like Harry. He would never have agreed to eat chocolates with her but she had cleverly brought her mother into the picture to make him stay. He didn't even realize that it was an uncommon chocolate, which she had bought. Also didn't catch her ploy to touch his cheek.
As Harry was walking back after practice with Cho, he met Luna on the way. She stopped on seeing him.
"Hi Harry, how have you been?" she asked.
"I've been doing well except the additional burden of practicing Quidditch with Cho. I guess it goes without saying that you're making tremendous progress with Ron," replied Harry. Luna turned as red as Ron's hair.
"Yes, we've been getting along really well. I was there for him during his time of loneliness and he saved me from those brutes. I like him even more than before now. I know what a good person he is despite the mistake he made. I'm really glad that you guys are talking again. He was badly missing your and Hermione's company. He never showed it but I knew all the same," said Luna.
"I'm glad too. Though the seriousness of his mistake cannot be ignored, he redeemed himself by saving you. That was quite a heroic act. No wonder his parents were so proud of him. So what about the big step? Will you wait for him or take the initiative yourself," asked Harry.
"It all depends, Harry. I think Ron is still not fully over the mistake he made. So he may want some more time before getting into another relationship. I'm in no hurry and am willing to give him that time. However if a perfect opportunity does arise I won't hesitate on telling him," replied Luna.
"Wow, in such a short while you've got to know Ron very well. I'll be the happiest man when the two of you get together. It would all be due to your efforts Luna. You handled the situation very well," said Harry.
"I couldn't have done it without you. Your advice was helpful at every step. Thanks a lot for everything," said Luna, hugging Harry and pecking him on the cheek. This entire scene was witnessed by Cho, who was coming back from the field. She wished she had her muggle camera. From the angle she was watching it had looked like they were about to snog. Of course she knew that Harry would never cheat Hermione. This was the perfect occasion to cause some tension between them by using this small incident with Luna. But she needed a photo for it. How could she get that?
Cho sat in her room for a long time thinking about this. In the magical world there had to be a way to get that photo. The idea of using a time turner had come to her mind but that was not feasible. Firstly she didn't have a time turner and secondly even if she did it would have been too risky. Her muggle camera was in her hand. She wished she could get into her own mind and take a photograph with it.
That was it! She had to get into her own mind and that could be done only through a Pensieve. She had heard from Harry that there was a Pensieve in the Headmistress' office. She needed to get there. Slowly she made her way to the office.
"Yes Miss Chang, can I help you?" asked McGonagall.
"Professor I wondered if I could use the Pensieve. It is quite important for me," answered Cho.
"The Pensieve! Why would you need that?" McGonagall questioned. Cho hesitated slightly.
"Actually Professor, it's a personal matter," replied Cho. McGonagall didn't seem fully convinced. Cho patiently waited.
"Miss Change, you'd know that the Pensieve is not a thing to play around with. Professor Dumbledore or I have never let any student use it before. But as you are not a student I'm treating you as an adult and letting you use it. Please do not misuse it," said McGonagall finally. Cho thanked her before moving to the Pensieve. She touched the wand to her head and concentrated on the Harry-Luna incident. After getting the memory into the Pensieve she jumped in. It was perfect. She got exactly what she had wanted. In the photo Harry and Luna were hugging and it looked like they were about to kiss. She felt slightly guilty for betraying McGonagall's trust but it could not be helped. Now the question was how to spread this around the school. She couldn't personally deliver the photo to Hermione.
Her brains were working very well tonight. She thought out a decent plan for this too. Before dinner in the night she'd place one or two copies at the Slytherin table. The moment they would see it her job would get done. Slytherin's hate towards Harry was too great for them to miss an opportunity like this. With the passing of Voldemort their house had been rather subdued.
Next morning when Harry and Hermione went into the Great Hall for breakfast, they noticed that everyone was staring at them curiously. Ignoring the stares they sat down at their usual places. For the first time they suspected something was wrong. Even the Gryffindor's were passing them icy glares, especially to Harry.
"What's the matter?" Hermione asked Ginny. She didn't like what was going on.
"I'm not the best person to tell you," replied Ginny. Hermione grew frustrated. She was about to yell at Ginny when she saw the photograph in Seamus' hand. She snatched it from him. Her eyes widened at what she saw. Harry too saw the picture. He was about to protest but before he could do so, Hermione got up and walked out of the hall. Harry groaned in frustration.
"Harry, have you seen Luna anywhere?" asked Ron, running up to him.
"No. She must be pretty shaken by this thing. You talk to her while I find Hermione. She just walked out. Wait… what's your reaction to this? You act as if I wasn't involved at all," said Harry.
"Harry I know both you and Luna very well. I know both of you wouldn't do this or at least the way it seems," said Ron simply. Harry nodded towards him in appreciation. The two of them went in different directions to find Hermione and Luna. Harry had a good idea where Hermione would be. In her favourite spot near the lake. He was right.
"I was expecting you sooner," said Hermione on seeing Harry.
"I just met Ron on the way. He was looking for Luna. Hermione I…," started Harry but was cut off by Hermione.
"You don't need to explain anything Harry. I trust you. I also know Luna quite well. So something like this between you too is unimaginable. I just walked out to avoid the attention of everyone," said Hermione.
"You mean… I don't know what to say. What did I do to deserve you? You certainly know me better than I know myself," said Harry, kissing Hermione gently.
"After you said you love me, I know that you wouldn't cheat on me. People can think what they like but I'm on your side Harry," said Hermione firmly.
"Thanks Hermione. However I feel that you deserve an explanation. I couldn't say it earlier because I was sworn to secrecy but now I have to tell you," said Harry. He told her everything about Luna's feelings for Ron. He started from the Halloween Ball, their talk when Ron was isolated, Ron and Luna's meetings during the holidays and finally about their talk the previous day. Hermione didn't seem surprised.
"I always knew Luna had something for Ron but not the seriousness. She took a big chance by approaching him after the 'three girl fiasco' but it paid off for her. So when do you think they will hook up?" asked Hermione.
"My bet is within the next one week," replied Harry.
"We need to investigate who's been spreading these photographs. First we are followed during our walk and now this. Who would have something against us? It can't be any of the younger students. As the Heads we are quite popular among them. Only sixth or seventh years could have caused this. We can rule the Gryffindor's out. That doesn't leave many," said Hermione scratching her head.
"Whoever it is we'll make sure he or she is punished," replied Harry in a determined voice.
**** **** ****
In the meantime Ron could not find Luna anywhere. He had checked almost every corner of the school. He had asked Terry Boot to check inside the Ravenclaw common room. She was not there either. After searching for over half an hour he found her near the owlery. She was obviously trying to hide from everyone. She looked in a bad state.
"Hey, it's okay Luna. Don't get upset. I don't believe a bit of it," said Ron comforting her.
"Ron I only kissed Harry on the cheek. That shot was taken before I did that so it looks like I'm about to…," she stopped.
"I believe you. Harry's fallen flat for Hermione and can never cheat her. You being a friend of Hermione's would never let her down. Some jerk has been letting out his frustration through this," said Ron soothingly.
"What'll Hermione think of me? She'll hate me," said Luna.
"Hermione trusts Harry. She knows that he wouldn't be like that with anybody other than her. The moment Harry explains everything to her, she'll believe him," said Ron. Luna still wasn't fully convinced. Ron saw the pain in her eyes. Recently she had gone through so much for no fault of her. It hurt him to see her like this. Both of them were sitting really close to each other. Before he knew he had kissed her. He raised his head in shock.
"I'm so sorry Luna. I shouldn't have done that. I've spoiled everything now. Please don't leave Luna. I didn't mean to. It just sort of happened," said Ron frantically. To his surprise Luna hadn't moved.
"Don't be sorry Ron. I've wanted that from a long time. I've fancied you since ages. I'm not at all sorry for what happened," replied Luna.
"You mean to say you like me," asked Ron.
"Yes. I like you a lot Ron," said Luna. She hadn't planned saying this today but the perfect moment she had been waiting for had popped up.
"I don't know how to reply," said Ron. Luna was trembling in anticipation. What if Ron didn't feel the same way?
"Do you feel the same way about me Ron," asked Luna getting to the point directly.
"Luna please don't get me wrong. I have just got over my previous episode. You are the sole reason for that. I like you very much. But so soon after 'that' I'm not confidant of myself. What if I hurt you? This is not a rejection by any means. I'll tell you sincerely that I feel the same way as you. In fact I've never felt like this about anyone else. You've done a lot for me Luna so I'll ask you for another favor. Please give me a few days. I don't need these days to think about what you've said. I want to completely get over what happened earlier and start as a new Ron with you. So you can call it a belated acceptance," said Ron at length. He hoped Luna wouldn't be angry.
"I understand completely Ron. If you hadn't kissed me today I wouldn't have said anything. I know you need time. Knowing that you feel the same way about me means a great deal to me," replied Luna. Ron sighed in relief and hugged her. They sat together for a long time.
**** **** ****
Harry had been planning for his and Hermione's first month anniversary. He wanted to make it special for her. Since they'd been to Hogsmede plenty of times, he was thinking of a different location. Of course they would have to break school rules to escape out but by now they were experts at it. He'd got Dobby to fix up a portkey. On the morning of twenty fifth of January Hermione received a note from Harry.
Be there at our common room by seven in the evening. We're going out. Hope you are game on breaking a few school rules. Happy anniversary. I love you. Harry.
Hermione did as she was told. At seven in the evening she was all dressed up for the occasion and waiting in their common room. When Harry entered his breath got caught in his throat. Hermione noticed his reaction and became slightly self conscious.
"Do I look awful? I'll change if you want," she said.
"You look… WOW! I can't describe it," replied Harry. Hermione blushed.
"Thanks. You look pretty handsome yourself. So where are we going?" asked Hermione.
"We're going to London for dinner and a movie. Dobby has setup the portkey. It will activate in another two minutes. It is the sock on the shelf. I hope you are ready to go," said Harry.
"As ready as I'll ever be," replied Hermione happily. As soon as the portkey activated they touched it and were immediately transported to London.
The streets of London were quite crowded. People seemed busy with their work. It was a lot different from what they were used to at Hogwarts. It was a nice change for both of them. Never in their years at Hogwarts had they witnessed scenes like this. Hermione had been to places like this during her childhood but didn't remember much.
"Our reservations are at seven thirty. I know how much you like Indian food so I've booked places for us at an Indian restaurant called 'Curries'. We'll decide on the movie after we eat," said Harry.
"Oh Harry, that's so sweet of you. I'm sure we'll have a wonderful time," replied Hermione.
"As long as we're together, we'll have a good time," said Harry, linking his fingers with Hermione. They roamed around London till it was time for them to eat. The restaurant was a quiet and peaceful one. They ordered 'Tandoori Chicken', 'Sheekh Kebab' and 'Naan'. It was a delicious meal. The romantic melodies playing in the background made the ambience perfect.
"That was perfect Harry. The Kebabs were brilliant. One of the best meals I've ever had. I loved everything," said Hermione, pecking Harry after they'd come out.
"Glad you loved it. We have basically two options for the movie. One is 'Barry Trotter and the Hobbit of Shire' and the other is…," he couldn't complete as Hermione had already made her choice.
"That one is awesome. Mum wrote to me saying it is one of the best movies she's seen. Let's watch that," she said excitedly. Harry agreed happily. They bought some popcorn before going in. The hall was jam packed. They were lucky to get tickets.
"Sorry I won't be able to snog you here," joked Harry.
"I don't mind. We've got an empty common room and the whole night for that," replied Hermione mischievously. Both of them laughed. The movie was as good as the meal. Overall it had been a very successful date. They returned to Hogwarts around midnight.
"Thank you once again for everything Harry. This has been one of the best evenings of my life. I could never imagine breaking school rules could be so enjoyable," said Hermione.
"You're welcome Hermione. It was amazing for me too. Your presence made all the difference for me. I love you so much. I want to take up your offer on the empty common room but it's getting quite late. Tomorrow is a working day, so we should sleep," replied Harry.
"Wait Harry! I've got something for you. I ordered them from Honeydukes. I know you love chocolates," she said giving him a pack of dark chocolates which were heart shaped.
"Hermione I didn't know we were exchanging presents. I should have got something for you," said Harry sounding ashamed.
"Don't be silly. You arranged everything for the wonderful evening. And being with you is the biggest present of all," replied Hermione.
"Thanks Hermione. You are the best," said Harry kissing her passionately.
**** **** ****
While Harry and Hermione were away Cho had been looking for Harry. Due to an appointment with her friend Marietta the next day she wanted to bring ahead the quidditch practice to that night. She had constantly sent owls to Harry to ask him if it was okay with him but the owl returned with the note every time. She was looking for someone from Gryffindor to pass the message. Finally she found Ginny.
"Hey Ginny could you ask Harry to come out for a bit?" she asked.
"Harry would be in the Head's quarters. We can't reach him in any way other than sending an owl," replied Ginny.
"I've tried that but failed. It's very important for me to contact him. Is there no other way?" said Cho desperately.
"Well I've heard Hermione say there is a floo connection to McGonagall's office," said Ginny. Cho thanked her and rushed to McGonagall's office.
"What is it this time Miss Chang?" asked McGonagall.
"I've got to contact Harry desperately but am not able to reach him through owl. Please can I use your fireplace? It's very important," replied Cho. McGonagall nodded.
As soon as Cho got to the Head's quarters she realized it was empty. So Harry and Hermione had sneaked out of school. Had they been in school the owl wouldn't have returned. She could use this against them later. She was about to go when it occurred to her that this was a perfect opportunity to snoop around a bit. She went into Harry's bedroom. The bed felt so nice. The pillow smelled of Harry. Cho took a deep breath to take in the scent. If only she could lie next to him on this big bed. Probably Hermione slept with him. She wondered if they'd gone all the way. The very thought made her nauseous. She opened Harry's closet. Again his scent filled the air around her. She closed her eyes to enjoy the moment. She stood there for a couple of minutes just enjoying the sensation. She went into his bathroom. She saw his shaving kit and other toiletries. She washed her face using his soap. Finally she decided to move out. McGonagall might get suspicious. Also Harry and Hermione could return any moment. With one last breath of Harry's scent she flooed back.
**** **** ****
Also at the same time Ron and Luna were out for a walk. Since their talk a few days ago they had grown still closer. To anyone else they would look like a happy couple. They had spent all their free time together. Even during the meals they invariably sat with each other despite being in different houses. Tonight seemed a bit different. It was a full moon night. Luna was gazing at it.
"Isn't the moon beautiful?" she asked Ron.
"The moon is synonymous with Luna. And yes Luna is beautiful," replied Ron sounding casual. Luna swatted his arm.
"Be serious," she said.
"Alright the moon is beautiful but so is Luna. Is that a good enough answer, your highness?" asked Ron dramatically. Luna laughed.
"Yes it is but your dramatization skills need brushing up," said Luna. Such light moments were very enjoyable for both of them. They sat together for a long time not speaking much before Ron broke the silence.
"Luna?"
"Hmm"
"I've made up mind," said Ron shortly.
"About what?" asked Luna, not understanding what he meant.
"About us. All my previous 'things' are behind me and I'd like you to be my girlfriend. I promise to treat you like a queen," said Ron. Luna only smiled back at him.
"Of course I'll be your girlfriend. As I said, that is what I've always wanted," she replied. Ron leaned forward and kissed her.