A/N: I'm happy to inform all of you that the action in this story is over. Now it is going to be just Romance and Drama. That starts in this chapter. A word of warning now… the Harry/Hermione shippers will not like what happens in this chapter. I can only start from where JKR has left us. Whatever happens in this chapter (read on to find out!) will eventually lead to a better future for Harry and Hermione. So please bear with me.
Thanks to all those who reviewed. To those who didn't… thanks for reading but please try and find a minute (or even less) to let me know what you feel. I'd really appreciate it.
Chapter Four: Normality Returns
"I've come to inform you that this evening both of you will have to will be going to The Burrow. Bill's wedding is in two days time. Tonks will come with you. Molly wants both of you there. Hermione, there is no need to worry about your parents. You can apparate into their room any time," said Remus Lupin. He had come early to Hermione's place. Harry and Hermione had been asleep after the long night. Remus could tell by their faces that this was not a welcome disturbance.
"That's okay Remus but why does Tonks need to come with us? Surely she has more important things to do," said Harry, rubbing his eyes.
"She needs to discuss the security situation with Arthur. We want to make sure, the wedding goes smoothly," replied Remus. Harry and Hermione giggled. Remus looked confused, "Am I missing something here?"
"You most certainly are. There is no need to review the security. Voldemort is history. All of us can move around freely now. No need for any more fear," said Harry, laughing. Hermione nodded. Remus looked stunned. "Perhaps you should know the full story," added Harry.
Over the next half an hour Harry and Hermione related the entire sequence of events leading up to Voldemort's death. Remus seemed too weak to speak. He probably didn't believe them. Harry saw his expression and produced Voldemort's wand.
"Bloody Hell! This is it. I can't believe this. I don't know how to act," Remus replied weakly.
"Perhaps you should inform the ministry. Aurors need to be sent to The Riddle House for arresting the remaining deatheaters. They would be awaiting the return of their master. What a rude shock, it will be for them," said Harry. Remus shook hands with them and left. Harry and Hermione were still sleepy. They had a small breakfast before turning in again.
They were awakened by the ringing of the doorbell and loud hammering on the front door. Hermione awoke first. Drowsily she went down to open the door. What awaited her outside was totally unexpected.
The media of the entire wizarding world seemed to have gathered there. They all wanted to interview Harry. The word of Voldemort's defeat had spread through the ministry. The wizarding media seemed very excited to see Hermione at the door. She was inundated with questions.
'Where is Mr. Potter?"
"Is he seriously injured or can he have a word with us?"
"We heard you and Mr. Potter are living together. How does it feel to share a celebrity's attention?"
"Miss Granger, are the rumors about your secret love affair with Mr. Potter true?"
Hermione didn't know how to handle all this. These were really absurd and obscene questions. Luckily for her at that very moment Harry came out of the door. The journalists got even more excited by his entry. Cameras started clicking madly. Harry seemed to gauge the situation well. He wasn't perturbed by the questions. He spoke loudly and clearly.
"Hermione and I do not wish to be disturbed at this moment. I am not going to be giving any interviews, so you all can forget that. I am absolutely fit and fine. Any of you having doubts on yesterday's events can see this," said Harry, raising Voldemort's wand in his right hand. Again there was mad clicking of the cameras. Harry took Hermione's hand and walked in.
"I'm Sorry about all those questions they asked you. I heard a few of them while coming down the stairs," said Harry, when they were inside. Hermione turned red.
"It's not your fault Harry. We know how the media is after our fourth year experience," she replied. They again had a small snack. They packed their bags for Ron's house. Tonks would not be coming with them as there was no need for security.
"How dare you two finish the job without me? Weren't the three of us in this together?" said Ron, as Hermione and Harry apparated into his room. He hugged both them, Hermione a little longer than Harry. "Give me the details fast or I'll hex both of you," he added. So they spent the rest of evening discussing the vents of the past few days. Ron was amazed to hear what all Hermione and Harry had gone through.
"Hermione, you must have a tough time with your parents. Are they better now?" he asked putting his hands on her shoulder.
"They are getting better with time. Thanks for the concern, Ron. If it hadn't for Harry, all of us would have been dead by now," replied Hermione. Harry needed to discuss one more thing with Ron and Hermione.
"Ron, you remember how things ended between me and Ginny last year at Hogwarts," he started.
"You don't need to worry about that Harry. She has no problem in getting back with you. Anyway, you had told her that it was her safety which made you two break things off. That is not an issue now so you can get back together," said Ron, not waiting for Harry to finish.
"That's not it Ron. I know Ginny still likes me but I'm not so sure about myself. Of course I like her, but not like that. Last year amidst all that was happening, I got infatuated by her good looks. I don't want to hurt her. However if we continue like last year, she will eventually endure despair," Harry said, not looking at Ron.
"If that's how you feel, I can't do anything. Better finish things off now than let them linger. You need to talk to her," Ron said. Harry was surprised. He had expected Ron to blow up.
"Who are you and what have you done to my best friend…? Thanks Ron. You have really been very understanding. Something I never expected from you," replied Harry.
"Hey, people can change. Want me to get back to my old self?" Ron joked. Things seemed to be so normal. With the threat of Voldemort gone, it was totally different feeling. All the deatheaters were captured. So there was no threat at all.
That night after dinner, Harry asked Ginny to meet him in her room. Ginny seemed to be excited by this. Harry hated to break her heart like this but he knew he was doing the right thing. Last year after he had started going out with her, he realized it didn't feel right. Though he enjoyed a girl's attention, with Ginny it was like a little sister. She was by no means a Cho Chang. With Cho things had been a disaster. With Ginny, things just didn't work out like he would have liked. He had used Dumbledore's death as an excuse to breakup with her.
"Hi Harry," said Ginny, coming into the room.
"Hi Ginny. I wanted to speak about what happened between us last year. I know that you still like me. Even I like you a lot. But I like you as a younger sister. I'm saying this now so that you don't get hurt later on. Then it would hurt more," Harry said nervously. Ginny looked away and didn't say anything. Harry could see a few tears swimming in her eyes. She didn't want to cry in front of him.
"Ginny please don't cry. I hurts me to see you like this. It is completely my fault. I shouldn't have kissed you in the common room like that," Harry said, putting his arms around her. She buried her face in her hands. Harry let her be for a while.
"Harry you have really hurt me. I thought we had a future together but if what you are saying is true then you've done the right thing. If I'd got more serious with you, I don't think I would have been able to handle this. It will still hurt though," she finally said.
"That's my girl. I'm really sorry about this. You didn't deserve this. I don't know if it'll make you feel better or not but would you like to go to Bill's wedding with me? As friends I mean," Harry replied.
"I'd like that," said Ginny, with a small smile.
"Great! I had nobody to go with. Thanks for being so strong about this Ginny. It can't be easy for you. If you ever want to talk about it, I'm there. Goodnight," Harry said, pecking her on the cheek. He walked out of the room, satisfied that things had gone off well. He walked into Ron's room, only to be greeted by sheepish looks on Ron and Hermione's faces.
"Did I interrupt something?" he asked, suspiciously.
"No Harry, you didn't. Actually Ron just asked me to go to Bill's wedding with him. Since he wasn't using me as a last a last resort, I agreed," replied Hermione.
"That's nice to hear. I'm going with Ginny. As friends, I mean," said Harry. "But you two would be having much more than friendship in your minds," he teased. Both Ron and Hermione blushed.
"Shut up, Harry," scoffed Ron. The three of them chatted for a while before going to bed. The next day would be the day before the wedding. Everyone would be very busy fine tuning the arrangements. Mrs. Weasley had insisted on cooking for everyone.
A lot had changed in one year. When Harry had come to The Burrow before his sixth year, everybody in the Weasley family, with the possible exception of Ron, hated Fleur Delacour. Mrs. Weasley had even tried to set up Bill and Tonks. However things were totally different now. Tonks had publicly proclaimed her love for Bill after he was bitten by Greyback. Most of the family had expected Fleur to walk away but she never left Bill's side during his recovery. This moved everyone and they happily accepted Fleur into the family.
On the day of the wedding everyone was very excited. The ceremony would be taking place in a nearby church. Charlie was Bill's best man while Fleur's sister Gabrielle was the bridesmaid. There were plenty of guests for the reception. Among them were the students and staff of Hogwarts, people from the ministry, members of the order, family, friends and many more. Fleur looked stunning in her dress. Harry was dancing with Ginny, when Professor McGonagall taped on his shoulder.
"Can I have a word with you Potter," she asked Harry.
"Sure Professor," replied Harry. They walked to one side of the reception hall.
"First of all I want to congratulate and thank you for what you did. Not that I approve you going away alone but you did plan everything well," McGonagall said.
"Thank you very much. I guess Hogwarts will be reopening now," replied Harry.
"You've made sure of that. So unfortunately you will have to come back to school to continue your studies. Remember this is your NEWT year. You have to be very systematic," said McGonagall.
"I'll do my best Professor," said Harry.
"I have a lot of work to do. Many new appointments have to be made. So I'm afraid I'll have to leave now. Give my regards to Mr. Weasley and Miss Granger," McGonagall said before walking away.
Harry and Hermione returned back to Hermione's home the next day. Remus was waiting for them with some good news.
"Hermione, I'm happy to inform you that your parents have made a quick recovery and will be returning home later in tonight," he said.
"That's great news Remus. I hope they are alright. I feel guilty for not visiting them for the past two days. There was a lot happening with the wedding," she said.
That afternoon Harry and Hermione didn't apparate to the hospital but took a cab. Robert and Diana would be coming back with them. They had improved dramatically. Though some of the mental effects remained physically they were almost back to normal. They could walk around and eat solid food. While they were coming back from the hospital Harry felt a bit awkward. This arrangement of staying with Hermione was only till her parents returned home. What would he do now? Surely he wouldn't have to go back to the Dursleys. Hermione saw his discomfort and understood everything immediately. On reaching home the four of them sat down in the living room.
"Mum, do you think it would be okay if Harry stayed with us for the rest of the holidays?" asked Hermione.
"I don't want to intrude Hermione. You have got together with your parents after a long time. You'd like to have some privacy with them, wouldn't you?" Harry interjected.
"Nonsense. Now you are as good as family Harry. You saved all of us. Your presence will be no intrusion at all. In fact Diana and I would like to know you better. Please stay with us, it'll be our pleasure," said Robert. Diana nodded in agreement.
"Thanks a lot. I really appreciate your hospitality," replied Harry. Robert and Diana excused themselves. They wanted to go to bed early. Harry and Hermione remained in the living room. Harry decided to touch a subject about which he had been curious for a long time.
"So how are you and Ron getting along?" he asked.
"We are getting along fine. Why wouldn't we?" shrugged Hermione.
"You know that I don't mean it like that Hermione. Do you like him, more than a friend?" asked Harry again, making his point very clear. Hermione blushed. "You can tell me", Harry added.
"Probably I do. I'm not sure. It just feels nice to have his attention. I guess I got jealous over his affair with Lavender, but since then things have gone well," she replied.
"Has he asked you officially or even hinted it?" quizzed Harry.
"No, none of that. I don't even know if he likes me that way," Hermione said.
"Don't be thick Hermione. It's common knowledge that he's fancied you for ages. Even a first year knows this. So now I see the feeling is mutual. What are you going to do about it?" said Harry.
"I don't know how to act. Isn't it the guy who normally asks first?" queried Hermione.
"Normally it is that way. But knowing Ron, he wouldn't ask you in a hundred years. I guess he doesn't want to risk your friendship. You have to take the initiative. Either ask him directly or give him enough hints so that he is forced to ask you. Believe me when I say, you won't be rejected," replied Harry.
"I don't know. I've never got into anything like this before," said Hermione, clearly still not confident.
"I have an idea. Ron, you and I are to meet at Diagon Alley in a few days time. I'll purposely go somewhere, so that you two are alone. You can talk to him then," Harry said, enthusiastically.
"I don't want you to be alone Harry," Hermione objected.
"Don't be silly! For once I can manage myself. Besides you two really need this time alone," Harry said. Hermione nodded.
The next few days passed uneventfully. Today was Harry's birthday. He would be finally turning seventeen. He got up quite early. He was surprised not to find any gifts or cards awaiting him. Normally there were plenty. He walked down to the kitchen.
"Surprise!" squealed Hermione. She had convinced her parents to have a small birthday party for Harry. Since they had just recovered they didn't want to have anything big. However there was a large chocolate truffle cake on the table. Along with them were all the gifts and cards Harry had received. There seemed to be a lot more this year. Harry guessed this had to do with the defeat of Voldemort. He had never had a birthday party before, so he still stood shocked.
"What's all this?" he asked foolishly.
"Happy Birthday Harry!" Hermione said, hugging him. Robert and Diana too wished him heartily.
"Hermione said you've never enjoyed a proper birthday. So we planned this for you. Hope you like it," said Diana.
"I love it! Thanks a lot all of you. I don't have words to describe my elation at the moment," said Harry. He was really grateful for this. Later in the morning he opened his gifts with Hermione. They included Canon's quidditch team jersey from Ron, a book on advanced defense spells from Lupin, joke shop products from Fred and George, the usual jumper from Mrs. Weasley, sweats from Neville, a tracksuit from Robert and Diana and finally a new and improved broomstick servicing kit from Hermione.
Without doubt it was Harry's best birthday ever. In fact it was his only birthday which was celebrated. He couldn't wait to speak about it with Ron. He would be meeting him the next day at Diagon Alley. Their letters from Hogwarts had arrived. One surprising thing mentioned by McGonagall was the delay in the announcing of the Head Boy and Head Girl. Hermione, who was a certainty for Head Girl couldn't hide her disappointment. She had been very keen to show her badge to her parents. Now she would have to wait till school reopened.
Next day Harry and Hermione apparated to Diagon Alley after breakfast. Ron was already waiting for them. They had a butterbear each before Harry decided it was time for him to move away.
"Hey I've got some work at Gringotts. I'll join you two later," he said, winking at Hermione. She looked nervous. He walked out of the door.
"So how are your parents, Hermione?" asked Ron, starting a conversation.
"They have improved a lot. Physically they are fit. Sometimes they have trouble sleeping but overall it's much better than expected," replied Hermione. "Ron, would you mind going outside for a walk? It's very crowded in here."
"Sure," said Ron. Together they walked out. A chilly wind had started blowing. This was unusual for this season. The two of them felt cold but decided to walk all the same.
"Walking might help us warm up," said Hermione.
"You must have enjoyed spending time with Harry. I'm sorry I couldn't have you two over. With Bill's wedding and everything, mum was really tired. I wish I could spend some more time with you… I mean you two," said Ron, looking away after the last comment.
"I would have liked that too. It was very nice with Harry but I missed you all the same," replied Hermione. It was getting chillier by the minute. Both of them had reached a quiet, empty place when…
"Ouch!" cried Hermione. She was about to fall to the ground but Ron caught her.
"What's the matter?" asked Ron, concerned.
"I just twisted my ankle. Let's just sit for a while, I'll be okay," replied Hermione. Both of them sat down on the grass. Hermione was shivering with the wind.
"Are you cold?" asked Ron. Hermione nodded, pulling her knees close to her chest.
"Do you want to get closer… body warmth might help," said Ron. Hermione hesitated but Ron didn't wait for her reply. He moved his body next to her, putting his arm around her shoulders and pulling her close. Hermione's heart started pounding. As she looked up to speak, the wind made her hair fly all over her face. Ron gently moved her hair behind her ears.
"I hope you are feeling better," said Ron.
"Yes, thanks a lot Ron. You were great help. I don't know what I'd do without you," Hermione replied, resting her head on his chest. Ron stiffened.
"What's going on here? What are we doing?" he asked tentatively.
"Don't be in denial mode Ron. Just say it. It's only me after all. You've known me for six years, haven't you?" replied Hermione, finally breaking the barrier. She had observed Ron's actions over the past few minutes and her doubts had vanished. Ron looked stricken.
"You mean that you want…" he couldn't complete. "You want us to g-get t-together?" he said, literally shaking.
"If you ask me I'd be happy to," replied Hermione simply. Ron relaxed.
"I really like you Hermione. I'm sorry for being such a git with Lavender but I promise to do better with you," he said.
"I like you too. Very much. I guess this makes us a couple," Hermione said, with a smile on her ace. Ron leaned forward and placed his lips on hers. It was a gentle first kiss.
"Most certainly," replied Ron as they pulled away. Hermione stood up with a jump.
"Come on! Let's go indoors. I'm freezing out here," said Hermione. Ron gaped at her.
"Hadn't you sprained your ankle?" Ron asked, with surprise.
"Oh, that was just an excuse to sit down with you," Hermione said cheekily.
"So Hermione Granger has turned naughty… I need to fix that. I heard that you are ticklish," started Ron.
"Don't you dare, Ronald Weasley," shouted Hermione, starting to run. Ron chased her, catching her quite easily. Both of them fell to the floor as Ron tried to tickle her. He was almost on top of her. She was about to warn him not to tickle when he covered her mouth with his. This was far more passionate and lengthy as compared to the first kiss. Both of them were breathless by the time they pulled apart.
Harry saw Ron and Hermione holding hands when he met them near Gringotts. He knew his plan had worked.
"Congrats both of you!" he said, punching Ron on the back.
"Thank you, matchmaker," Ron replied. Hermione nodded. The three of them spent some more time at Diagon Alley before it was time to disperse. Ron promised to visit them during the holidays. That night Hermione wanted to talk to Harry.
"Harry thanks a lot for your help. I don't think Ron and I could have got together without your inputs," she said.
"You're welcome," replied Harry.
"Harry, are you okay with this," she asked softly. Harry looked at her confused.
"Do I need to remind you that I made this happen? If I wasn't okay with it, why would I encourage you?" he said.
"I just wanted to make sure. Goodnight Harry, I should be getting to bed," said Hermione. She walked towards her bedroom. Harry stared after her. Something seemed to be bothering her. He guessed she was just apprehensive about getting into a relationship for the first time.
The rest of the holidays passed quickly. Ron visited them once every week. Things between Ron and Hermione were going well. Harry didn't feel left out with them getting together. Finally it was time for them to get back to Hogwarts. On the day they were leaving, Robert summoned Harry to have a quick word.
"Harry, we've already thanked you but I can't help it. What you did for us this summer was… I don't have words to describe it. I just don't mean saving us. You were alone in this house with Hermione for days. She was emotionally unstable. Even a decent guy would be tempted to take advantage of such a situation. I'm sure you understand what I mean. But you were truly honest and made sure no harm came Hermione's way. So I'd like to thank you one final time," he said.
"I would never even think of such a thing. Hermione's my best friend and I'll do everything I can to see her happy," replied Harry, embarrassed.
Harry, Ron and Hermione found a compartment to themselves in the Hogwarts Express. They discussed a lot about the coming year. Hermione seemed very focused on the NEWTs.
"That's a sight I love so much," said Harry, pointing towards the castle.
"Can't believe this is the last time we'll be traveling to Hogwarts," said Hermione.
"Remember the first time the three of us met on this train. In fact it was this very compartment. What a coincidence!" added Ron. They learned on the train that Draco Malfoy would not be coming back to Hogwarts. Though the three of them were happy on hearing this, Harry couldn't help feeling that he'd miss his encounters with Malfoy at Hogwarts. There had been plenty of them in the train itself.
They got down at the station and were greeted by Hagrid's shouts calling the first years. The three of them would miss all these scenes from the next year. But there was no need to think about all these things now. Such feelings were for the end of the year. Now was the time to enjoy. There was whole year at Hogwarts to look forward to.