The Path of Least Resistance

Chapter 1

“Maybe you should lie down for a bit, love…” Harry Potter suggested to his yawning wife.

Hermione leaned against the kitchen cupboard and rested an arm over her swollen midriff. “I’ll be…I’ll be… fine,” she said smothering yet another yawn. “We can just make it an early night.”

Harry came around the counter to where she was standing. He extended his arms to hold her, wrapping them around the precious bulge. She laid her head back against his shoulder. “I think The Alien would prefer Mummy to rest…”

Hermione chuckled. Ever since Harry had scene the ultrasound pictures, he’d called the baby, ‘The Alien,’ much to her dismay. “I wish you wouldn’t call him that…we chose the name Adrian, not Alien,” she scolded.

“I worry about you…” he sighed.

“Why? We are finally going to have what we’ve always wanted…”

“I want you,” he stated. “The rest is just extra stuff...icing on the cake…a bonus spin…”

Hermione smiled. Harry had been so understanding and truly wonderful through her desire for a baby. He wanted that, too, she knew, but his concern after three miscarriages and one stillbirth was that they wanted the impossible. “I want it all, my love. I want to give you what you’ve been missing your entire life. I want you to have a family of your own.”

“I have that already, though. I’ve got you…” he explained looking into her eyes. “Don’t get me wrong. I’m thrilled over The Alien, but the world won’t end if it’s not meant to be.”

“Don’t talk like that,” she scolded. “Think positive thoughts. Tell Adrian that you can’t wait to meet him.”

Harry came around in front of her, kneeled and spoke to her tummy. “Just think of the fun we’ll have when you are ready to join us. There’s toys to be played with and stories to tell you…just sort yourself out in there. We’ll be waiting for you.” He looked up at his wife with a smirk. “Better now?” he asked. She smiled and nodded. “He still looks like an alien…”

With much protesting Hermione agreed to lie down until Harry had dinner ready. She waddled up the stairs and into the bedroom. As she drifted off to sleep, she felt the comforting kicks and jabs of her son letting her know he was there.

The following days were a flurry of activity. Hermione felt more energetic than she had in months. Upon returning from her job at the Ministry, she rearranged the nursery for the twelfth time.

Harry laughed upon seeing her efforts. “You do know that this is the way it started originally, don’t you?”

“It’s perfect,” she declared for the twelfth time.

“Dinner is served, Milady…” he said with a graceful bow.

“Why, thank you, Knave,” she teased before following him from the room.

“We should charm the stairs,” she said as she reached for the butter dish. “I don’t want Adrian to fall…” She buttered her roll and took a large bite.

“I’m sure we have time for that once he’s settled in,” Harry answered.

“We can’t be too ready, though,” she responded. “After all we’ve been through; I’m leaving nothing to chance.”

“I’ll take care of it once I’ve done the dishes,” Harry answered.

“It’s my turn for dishes, love,” she corrected him. She reached for seconds of broccoli.

“You didn’t sleep much last night, plus the nursery…shouldn’t you rest?”

Hermione laughed. “I can’t rest now. There’s too much to do…Honestly, Harry, I feel fine. Let me do my share. I’m not an invalid…”

Harry made a face at her before returning to his roast beef. “No, but you are carrying our son. Just don’t overdo, alright?”

After dinner, Hermione washed the dishes, scrubbed every surface in the kitchen and then tackled the living room. At last she joined Harry in bed. She went eagerly into his arms. He kissed her gently before moving on to nibble her ear, her neck. His hands rubbed gently at her aching back. Once she was mewling, he ventured further and massaged her breasts. “Harry, we can’t…”

“I know,” he whispered n her ear.

“I’m sorry…” she replied.

“Don’t be,” he murmured. “I don’t want to take any more chances than you do. Besides those ‘other things we could do’ that you mentioned haven’t been exactly torturous…We’ll have our time again once The Alien is born…well, eventually, I suppose…”

“For now, just let me take care of you,” she suggested as she slid her hand into his pajama bottoms. “Once the baby is born, you’ll most likely feel neglected, so let me do this, alright?”

Hermione was up early the next morning scrubbing floors and cleaning without the aid of magic. By the time Harry had risen, the house was immaculate. “It looks fantastic, love,” he praised as he looked around the drawing room. “I can’t believe you got so much done! Why didn’t you wake me?”

Hermione giggled. “I wanted it done correctly…” she teased.

Harry gave her a feigned pout. “I’ll have you know that I know brooms are made for more than flying…I kept Aunt Petunia’s house on holiday...and garden and laundry. If I’d done a bad job, it was no dinner.”

“You poor dear…” she responded, “let me make you some breakfast.” As she passed by him on her way to the kitchen, he reached out and pulled her into a warm embrace.

“Are you sure you’re alright?” he asked.

“I believe I’ve come into the ‘nesting syndrome’ of my pregnancy. It’s a normal occurrence. I’m fine. It just means that Adrian will be here soon…” She looked at his face. “What’s wrong?” she asked.

“Er...like… how soon?” he asked with an obviously panicked tone.

“Possibly today…tomorrow…the day after, why? Did you finally sort out that we are having a baby?” she laughed.

“Well, I knew obviously, but I’ve been trying so hard not to get my hopes up again that it’s kind of slipped up on me that this is real…” His expression was one of awe.

Hermione placed his hand against her tummy and whispered, “It’s real…”

The baby kicked against his hand. Harry felt dizzy with emotion. “We’re really having a baby…”

Hermione opened one eye at the first cry. “Can you get him, Harry? I’m just so tired….” She’d attempted nursing when he was first born. Her milk supply hadn’t been enough to keep an ant alive, so at Doctor Matthews’ suggestion, she gave it up.

Harry got out of bed to see to their two month old son. Once Adrian was fed and in a clean nappy, Harry returned to his wife. “Are you alright?” he asked gently. Tears rolled down her face as she rolled away from him. He laid a hand against her arm. “Can I get you something?”

“No,” she replied attempting to hide her tears. “I’m fine….” He snuggled up against her and felt her stiffen at his touch. With a sigh, he moved back to his own side of the bed.

When Harry returned from work that evening, he found his wife still lying in bed. He schooled his face into a false smile. “Hi. How was your day?” he asked softly.

“Fine,” she answered with a shrug.

“Did you get some rest?”

“What do you mean by that?” she snapped.

Harry was taken aback by her words, but carefully said, “You’ve said you were tired…”

“I am…just please leave me alone….” She threw the blanket over her head.

Harry went into Adrian’s room and peered into the cot. He smiled at his sleeping son and walked quietly out of the room. He headed into the kitchen where he prepared a few bottles and started supper. He pointed his wand at the enormous pile of laundry. As the clothes hopped into the machine, Harry folded the ones he’d washed the night before, once again astounded that a person so small could generate so much.

He took a tray with two plates up to the bedroom. “Hermione? Love?” I’ve brought dinner…”

“I’m not hungry…” was the response.

“I’ve made your favorites,” he coaxed. “Steak, sautéed vegetables… even blueberry crumble…just a bit?”

“No, Harry, please. I’m just not hungry…”

Harry stood and went back to the kitchen to eat in solitude.

A week later Harry was surprised to see Hermione with a smile on her face. He took Adrian from her so she could take off her robes. Adrian was sleeping peacefully. “Doctor Matthews was very thorough today,” Hermione began. “Of course he always is, of course, but it seemed like he took extra time for us. I had so many questions…He just answered them patiently. He told me about some new procedures they are trying for women who have trouble conceiving, like I did. He was so nice, Harry…”

“So Adrian is doing well, is he?” Harry asked. The smile fell from her lips.

Hermione snorted. “Why wouldn’t he be? Do you have so little faith in my abilities as a mother?”

“You didn’t say, did you?” Harry responded. “You are the one with the doubts, Hermione, not me….never me…”

Hermione drew a deep breath. “Look, I don’t want to row…”

“Nor do I,” he answered. “It’s really great to see you smile. I’ve missed it…Is there any particular reason?” Harry looked at her trying in vain not to look hopeful.

A dreamy wistful expression crossed her face. “No…nothing specific. But Doctor Matthews wore his blue tie…It truly brought out the blue of his eyes…”

Adrian squirmed in Harry’s arms, readying himself for a good cry. “I see. Shall I feed Adrian, then?”

Hermione waved a hand thoughtlessly. “I’m going to bed,” she stated. “It’s been a long day…”

Harry nodded and carried the shrieking infant into the sitting room. Summoning a bottle, he drew his wand and touched it lightly to the bottom to warm it gently. He offered the tip to Adrian, who drank greedily.

Once Adrian was bedded for the time being, Harry approached his wife. “Want to talk?” he asked.

“What about?” she asked taking the blanket from over her face.

“What’s going on? I miss you…I miss my wife…”

“Honestly, Harry! I’ve just had a baby. If you were that hard up for sex….” She sighed heavily. “Just have at it then…” She raised the corner of the blanket in invitation.

“It’s not that…well maybe partially, a tiny bit, of course…what’s happening? I feel you drawing away from me…from Adrian…”

Hermione looked at him trying to read his face. Seeing nothing but concern she began speaking, “I feel numb. I feel overwhelmed by this grief…I should be happy, but I’m not…I feel…unable to cope.”

“What can I do to help?”

Tears rolled down her cheeks. “Don’t you see? This isn’t about you…not everything is about you…” Harry opened his mouth to protest. She continued before he could say a word. “I need to worry about me for a bit. Please at least try to understand…”

“I’ve been trying, Hermione. Surely you must see that? I want to help you…”

“You can help me most by leaving me be…I don’t need your pity or your guilt trips.”

“Are you sure that’s what you want? Maybe it would be better if you returned to work…give you something to concentrate on…”

“I’ve left my post…I can’t go back there…not now.”

“Oh,” Harry replied. “What if we got someone to come in a help with the baby…to give you time to sort things out?”

“I don’t care…” she replied. “Do what you want…”

“I want whatever it is that you want. I love you…”

Hermione sighed. “Then leave me be…” She threw the blanket back over her head. Harry walked away sadly, noticing she hadn’t returned his declaration.

Months passed with no change. Hermione spent most of her time either in bed or staring out the window. “You need to eat something,” Harry coaxed. He’d noticed that her clothes were hanging off of her. “Just a few bites…”

Katrina, the young witch he’d hired to help, had made a sumptuous dinner. “I’m going out with Ron tonight,” he reminded her. “Want to come along?” Hermione shook her head and continued her gaze at the street below. “Alright. I won’t be late…”

It was many hours later when Harry staggered through the bedroom door. Hermione pretended to be asleep. She felt nauseated by the smell of alcohol on him. He scooted up close to her. She could feel how obviously randy he was.

Harry began caressing her. She stiffened. As his touch became bolder, she cringed. “Harry, please don’t….” she said when she could take no more.

“Don’t what?” he asked.

“You reek…just…I’ll go sleep in the guest room…you…just…take care of yourself however you see fit….”

“Oh, so it’s, ‘Have a nice wank, Harry,” he retorted. “I can’t be bothered anymore…”

“Please try to understand…”

“I am trying to understand, Hermione, and I can’t…”

“I just don’t want to…”

“I realize that,” he answered. “You haven’t wanted to for quite awhile…”

“You don’t know what I’m dealing with, Harry. I don’t even know. I just…It wouldn’t be right…”

“It’ll be perfect. It’s always been perfect…Maybe that’s what’s missing…maybe it’ll help…”

“I said no…”

“I’ll do anything you want me to, Hermione…I’ll conjure a stethoscope…”

Hermione felt warm with rage. “How dare you!”

Harry fell away from her as if deflated. “Alright,” he said at last. “I won’t touch you…just please don’t leave me. I couldn’t bear it…please?”

Hermione didn’t speak. She just hid her face underneath the blanket and let the tears fall. The feelings of worthlessness finally overwhelmed her. Once she was sure Harry was asleep, she crept from bed, back to her window.

The next morning, she was waiting for Harry to awaken. He opened his eyes to find her staring at him. He reached for his glasses on the nightstand and put them on. “Good morning,” he said softly.

“I’ve brought you a potion…we need to talk…”

Harry nodded and downed the foul liquid in one swallow. He felt elated that she was finally going to talk to him…maybe to let him help her.

He dressed quickly and followed her down to the kitchen. She’d made scones for him and tea. He smiled his thanks and sat down. He took a sip of his tea and looked at her. She couldn’t meet his eyes. “What did you want to talk about?” he asked.

Tears rolled down her face. He rose to go and comfort her. The look she gave him caused him to sit back down. “I need to figure this out…” she began. “The way things are is no good for me, no good for you and no good for Adrian.”

“I need to figure out what’s going on with me and I need some space to do that…” Harry couldn’t help but hear ‘space without you in it…’ in his head. His heart gave a clench before settling somewhere below his stomach. “I need some time to work through it…” Once again Harry’s brain finished the sentence for her, ‘I need time away from you…’

“I’m moving back to my mother’s house…just for awhile…”

“Please don’t leave me…I’ll do anything…”

“Harry, this just isn’t about you…I’m sorry…”

Harry sat stone-faced as he watched her leave. He noticed that she’d packed before he’d awakened and felt his heart shatter. As the fire returned to a low flame, he knew she was gone.

A cry from the nursery roused him from his misery. He gave himself a mental shake and headed back up the stairs. Once he was finished feeding the baby, Katrina arrived and took over. Harry got himself ready for work.

His job as Auror Trainer took his mind off of his troubles. He didn’t want to return home, but knew he must. Adrian needed his parents and Harry would try to be both for him until his mum returned.

That evening, Adrian was unsurprisingly cranky. Nothing satisfied him but being in Harry’s arms. “I feel the same way,” he said. “I miss her, too.”

Harry was exhausted by the time he crawled into bed. He’d only just closed his eyes when Adrian started to cry. Harry rose and walked to the nursery. Adrian had only slept for an hour, so Harry knew that he was only lonely. He carried the baby into his room. He cast a few spells to keep him from rolling out of bed and lay down with the infant in his arms.

Adrian whimpered and gave Harry the most pitiful look. Harry smiled at his son. “I know…” he said. Harry hummed softly as Adrian settled down. Harry looked at the clock. It was well past one. He rolled over on his side and carefully laid the baby next to him. “I’m sorry, Alien,” he said in a whisper. “I just don’t know what to do…”

Chapter 2

The next morning, Harry awoke suddenly. He saw Adrian still asleep beside him and let out the breath he wasn’t aware he’d been holding. He looked at the clock and figured out the schedule he’d need to make it to work on time. He carried Adrian to his cot and quickly washed and dressed.

Adrian was happily cooing to his fingers when Harry returned. “Good morning, my Alien,” he said with a smile. Harry dressed the boy in jeans and a t-shirt and carried him downstairs into the kitchen. With a few waves of his wand, breakfast was ready. Adrian seemed to want to feed himself his porridge, so Harry allowed it.

Harry laughed as the baby covered himself with the sticky goo. “Your mummy would hex me for this…: he chuckled. With that thought he raised an eyebrow and gave Adrian a bit more cereal. He felt a slight pang of guilt at his vengeful actions, but with a careless shrug, he sipped his tea and watched his son play.

Once breakfast was finished, Harry cast a cleaning charm on his son. “Sorry about that…” he said. “But if you are going to get all dirty, you have to get all clean again.”

Katrina hurried in. “Oh, he’s had his breakfast, has he?”

“Yes,” Harry smiled. “He wore most of it, but I think he’s had plenty.”

Harry handed Adrian over to Katrina. “Can you stay late tonight?” he asked. “I thought I’d go see if I can talk to my wife…”

“Of course, sir,” she answered.

Harry was in a right state when he got home that evening. “She wasn’t there…” he told Katrina to explain his earlier than planned arrival. “Any post from her?”

“Oh, I’m sorry, sir…” the child minder answered. “I told her you’d be stopping by…”

He whirled to face her. “You talked to her?” he asked in surprise.

“Yes, sir. She came round this afternoon to visit with little Adrian. Made him happy seeing her, it did…”

Harry closed his eyes against the pain that washed over him. “Did she stay long? How did she look?”

“Tired, peaky….she stayed a few hours…”

The realization hit him that the reason she wasn’t home when he’d come by was that she was avoiding him. She knew he was coming and made sure she wasn’t there. Once Katrina had gone, he quickly gave Adrian his dinner and got him ready for bed. He read him a story and bade him good night.

What he’d give to get pissed right now. He knew it was a bad idea, since Adrian didn’t often sleep through the night. Once he was sure Adrian was asleep, Harry went into his bedroom and cast several silencing charms on the room. He collapsed to his knees and hid his face in his hands. As the racking sobs overtook him, he screamed for her.

“Why did you leave me? You promised you wouldn’t…I don’t want to be alone anymore, Hermione. Please come back…”

A few hours later, Harry was still on the floor. The first whimpers got his attention. He wiped his eyes with the back of his hand and went into the loo. Splashing cold water on his face revived him. He walked into the nursery just as the whimpers progressed to cries. “Hey there, little man…Why aren’t you sleeping?” he crooned to the child. Harry checked his nappy, which was dry. “Are you hungry or lonely? Myself, I think I fit into the lonely category…” He picked up the baby and held him close. Adrian went right back to sleep on his shoulder. Harry rocked him gently for a few minutes before lowering him gently back into the cot. “I’m sorry, little one. I wish I knew what to do to get you your mummy back…”

Every day for the next month, Harry stopped by to talk to Hermione and found no one home. He’d come home to learn that she’d spent the afternoon with her son, but left no note. Although it frightened him, he didn’t say a word when he found out Hermione occasionally took Adrian back to her mum’s house. He was afraid she wouldn’t bring him back. He wrote a letter to her, not sure if he’d send it or not.

My dearest Hermione,

I’ll say this once and then I won’t say it again, I promise…Please come home. I love you. I miss you. I truly don’t know what I did to drive you away. You wanted time and space and I’ve given you that, but it’s been so very long. We haven’t spoken in months.

Every day I fear that you are going to take Adrian for the afternoon, decide not to bring him back and leave me with nothing. That’s my issue not yours, though. You need to see him and I’ll not stand in your way.

I’m just finding this all so very hard to understand. Ron keeps telling me you are coming back; however I feel he’s being overly positive. Give me some sort of sign and I’ll wait for you forever. That’s all I ask. I can’t go on this way. It’s driving me mad! I can’t fix what I don’t know is broken. Just one signal…a note… a picture…anything. Give me some hope, please.

I love you,

Harry

Ron came over one night to try to persuade Harry to go out. Since Hermione left, Harry had given him one excuse or another. “I can’t, Ron. It just wouldn’t be right. He’s all I’ve got…”

“You’ve got your wife…” Ron reminded him.

“Oh yeah?” Harry said skeptically. He made a show of looking around the room. “Where is she? It’s been going on nine months since she left. What am I supposed to think of that? What am I supposed to do?”

“She’ll be back. She’s just…”

“She’s just what? Needing to be away from me? Can’t stand the sight of me? I sent her a present for her birthday. She couldn’t even send a note to say she’d gotten it. Face facts, Ron. It’s over. Story of my life, isn’t it?”

“What do you mean, mate?”

“Nothing…forget it…” Harry scrubbed his hands over his face.

“Just get a minder for Adrian and let’s get pissed. It’ll be good for you…”

“I can’t ask Katrina…she’d already gone…”

“I bet Mum would love to watch him!” Ron offered. “You know how she loves babies…”

“You’re planning to come back here with me then, are you? …stumbling drunk? …to face your mum?”

Ron’s ears turned red in embarrassment. “No…I…err…Let Adrian stay the night….just take a potion before you fetch him…”

“Hermione might want him overnight…I mean she only sees him when I’m gone…” It took all of Harry’s Gryffindor courage to suggest it. “Floo-call her. She won’t answer if she knows it’s me…”

Ron looked confused, but did as Harry asked. Harry stayed out of sight, just in case. “Are you sure Harry doesn’t mind?” she asked, “…I mean, you didn’t force him into it…” Harry’s heart ached at the sound of her voice.

“No, it was his suggestion…Harry needs this, Hermione. He hasn’t so much as gone out to dinner since you’ve been gone…”

“Honestly, Ron,” she scolded. “Of course I’ll take my son…just…could you bring him over? I don’t want…”

“Sure, no problem,” Ron said cutting her off. He was sure that whatever she was going to say next would hurt Harry and didn’t want to take that chance.

Harry didn’t need to hear the rest. He knew what she was going to say. He turned and walked heavily up the stairs. Ron watched him go before he turned back to the fire, his face red with anger. “What’d you have to go and say that for? You’ll need to pluck up the courage to come and get him. Haven’t you hurt Harry enough?”

Hermione sighed. “I’m not trying to…I’m not...it’s just...I’m failing so badly…I can’t bear to see it reflected in his eyes…”

“Sounds like something you should talk to him about, doesn’t it?”

“I will, Ron…I just need more time…When can I pick up my son…when you know…”

Ron sighed with exasperation. “Harry’s upstairs licking his wounds, I expect. Come on through now.”

“Are you sure he won’t come down?” she asked.

“No, actually, I’m hoping he does.”

“Couldn’t you just…”

“No, Hermione. Come through now or I will call my mum to watch Adrian…”

Harry was finishing getting dressed when he heard her voice. It took all of his willpower to restrain himself from going to her. Instead, he pressed himself tightly against the door, his hand flat against it as if trying to feel her. Once she’d gone, he walked back down the stairs. He felt as if the weight of the world was again settled square on his shoulders. He couldn’t look Ron in the eye. He hated the fact that Ron knew he was such a lousy husband that his wife would abandon her own child to get away from him. He pasted a fake smile on his face and faced his friend.

“Let’s go to the Three Broomsticks instead of that Muggle pub,” Ron suggested. “I’ve got a new joke to try out on Madam Rosmerta…”

Harry’s smile became genuine as he replied, “You seriously need to get a life, Ron…”

Ron raised an eyebrow at him. “And you don’t?” he responded as he readied himself for Apparition.

“Touché…” Harry said as he followed.

The bar grew silent as Harry entered. Every eye was upon him. He and Ron found a table in the back. Madam Rosmerta came over straightaway. “What can I get for our resident hero and his friend?” she purred.

“Firewhiskey,” Ron ordered, “and keep ‘em coming…” A few people, both men and women, approached only to be turned away with a glare from Ron. “Ah, you’re adoring fans….”

“Shut it,” Harry replied grumpily. He drained the glass in one swallow and closed his eyes to take pleasure in the burn coursing down his throat.

Madam Rosmerta brought the large bottle over. “It’s on the house,” she said.

Ron poured Harry another one. “Take it easy, mate, or the night will be over before it gets started…”

Harry felt the alcohol lift his spirits almost immediately. “I can handle it,” he replied.

“It’s been awhile…just slow down…a bit…”

“Just try to keep up, will you?” Harry laughed.

Ron noticed a few girls at the bar trying to catch Harry’s eye. “I’ll be right back,” he said and made his way over.

Harry watched as Ron spoke to the women. He wondered what he was up to. Surely he wouldn’t be trying to set him up. He was a married man…not that his marriage was worth a flobberworm at the moment. Still he took his vows very seriously. Ron returned alone to the table. “Didn’t catch anything? I know you were trolling….” Harry teased.

“I’m meeting Vanessa after we’re done here…” Ron answered.

“Ron,” Harry objected. “You don’t have to stay with me. If you want to hook up with her, go ahead….”

Ron smiled. “She’ll wait for me…” He took a sip of his firewhiskey. “She knows I’m consoling a friend who’s having a rough go of it…They like that stuff…shows we’re sensitive…”

Harry rolled his eyes and replied sarcastically, “I’m glad my problems get you dates…You can show your appreciation by buying the next round…”

“I still can’t get a laugh out of Rosmerta, though…”

A few hours later, Harry was having trouble keeping both his eyes open and his thoughts focused. “Did’ja know I haven’t had sex in over a year? S’true…not even a wank…nothing…”

“Thanks for sharing that tidbit from the ‘too much information column’,” Ron laughed. “I’ve always wanted to know that I have more sex than the great Harry Potter…”

“He’s not s’great…” Harry replied sadly. “’e’s jus’ some bloke that nobody wants….”

“You don’t mean that…” Ron answered.

“S’true…my wife sure as hell doesn’t. She lef’ me, Ron. I couldn’ make ‘er happy…”

“I don’t think anything makes her happy right now, mate.”

“Sh’won’t talk to me…I dunno wha’ I did….I’d ‘pola…’pola…I’d say I was sorry…”

“She’ll be back, Harry…”

“Nope…sh’won’t….Been there b’fore… My parents lef’ me… Sirius… Dumbledore… Hagrid moved ta France…”

“Those are entirely different situations…They don’t apply here…”

“Same r’sult, though…”

Ron would never say so out loud, but he thought Harry had a valid point. He swore to himself to make Hermione see reason this time.

The next morning Harry awoke to a raging hangover and an empty house. If he thought about it, he couldn’t decide which was worse. He crawled to the loo and found the potion. He made a face as he drank it down. Once he was feeling better physically, the emptiness of the house hit him full force. He washed up and got ready for work as quickly as he could. He left a note for Katrina where Adrian was and Apparated to the Academy.

He hadn’t eaten breakfast at work for as long as he’d been married. He grabbed a tray and selected bacon, eggs and toast for himself. He found one of the few empty tables and sat down. He grabbed the Daily Prophet and scanned the headlines. As he expected, there was a story about his night out with Ron. It was full of speculation and rumor that his marriage was on the rocks. “Will wonders ever cease,” he said aloud. “They got something right…”

“May I sit with you?” Harry looked up and saw a very pretty woman standing over him. “The tables…they’re all full…”

“Sorry…be my guest…” he answered waving a hand in invitation.

“Thanks. I’m Corinna Andrews, by the way…”

“Nice to meet you, Corinna. I’m…”

She laughed. “Do you really think you need to tell me who you are?” She glanced at his forehead, still laughing. “That scar is quite notorious, but even without that…everyone here is aware of ‘Evil Captain Potter…”

It was Harry’s turn to laugh. “They don’t still call me that, do they?”

“I’m afraid so…”

“Do you go to the Academy?” he asked politely.

“Oh, dear heavens, no,” she answered. “That stuff is too hardcore for me…I’m just a lowly assistant.”

“Which department?”

“Charms,” she answered. “Captain McVie needs someone to fetch his coffee, typing, scoring essays and tests, filing, avoiding his wife…Do you have an assistant?”

“No, I mean no offense, but I didn’t see the need. I can fetch my own coffee, type, and file. If I don’t score the tests myself, how would I know what needs to be covered in more detail? And I try not to avoid my wife…that’s generally her territory…”

“I’m sorry…”

Harry shrugged as he finished his tea. “C’est la vie, I expect.” Harry stood up with his tray. “Well, Corinna Andrews, it’s been a pleasure meeting you.”

“The pleasure is all mine, Captain…”

Harry strolled to his office to check his schedule. He would have to give some serious thought to having an assistant.

Harry brought some exams home to grade rather than staying late. He forewent his usual trip to Hermione’s parent’s house. He dropped the exams on the roll top and went to find his son. “Your home early, sir,” observed Katrina.

“I just brought it home with me is all…” he replied. Adrian was crawling toward him as fast as his little legs would go. He chortled as Harry swung him up into his arms.

“Da!” he squealed. Harry looked at him in amazement.

“He’s only just gotten home from his mum’s. He’s been watching for you…”

“I missed you, too, my Alien…” He blew raspberries on his neck and gave him a big hug before setting him back on the floor.

Just then a large barn owl flew in. Harry untied the parchment from its leg and opened it. He was lucky to be near the couch. The words he read hit him like a tidal wave. It was an ‘Acknowledgement of Service’. His wife wanted a divorce.

“Is everything alright, sir?” Katrina sounded like she’d been trying to get his attention for quite some time.

“Yeah, sure…” he answered vaguely. He barely registered anything but the words before his face.

“Shall I get that?” Katrina asked. Harry didn’t answer. He just continued to stare at the parchment in front of him. He vaguely heard Ron’s voice asking if someone was alright. He didn’t know who and, truth be told, he didn’t much care.

“Harry?” said Ron frantically. “Are you alright?”

“It’s over, Ron… officially… undeniably …unequivocally …clearly over…”

“She’s making a mistake…”

“Is she?” Harry asked, “Are you sure about that?”

“Of course, I’m sure. You two are meant to be together.”

“She obviously doesn’t share our view…”

“Let me take Adrian to mum’s. You’re in no fit state….”

“No fit state….” Harry repeated never taking his eyes off the document in front of him. “I’m just kidding myself. I can’t be both mother and father to him. He’ll be as screwed up as I am….”

“You’re an excellent parent, Harry,” Ron challenged. “He’s lucky to have you!”

“No, he needs a mother…as soon as possible…”

“What are you planning in that head of yours?” Ron asked warily.

Chapter 3

Once his mind was made up, Harry wasn’t sure what to do next. The last girl he’d actually ‘dated’ was Cho Chang in Fifth Year. He’d had other girlfriends, of course, but boarding school didn’t offer much opportunity for true dates. As he graded essays, he wondered how he’d go about it. He’d never been any good at it.

Soon lunch time came around. Harry looked at the sandwich he’d brought with a scowl. He noticed his inbox was nearly empty and decided a hot lunch at the café nearby was the answer. He wondered if that would make the Prophet as well. He laughed as he pictured the headline, ‘Harry Potter has Fish and Chips at Local Restaurant!’

He was shown to a table near the back, as he preferred, ignoring the whispers that surrounded him. Instantly he remembered why he normally took lunch at his desk. The server flirted with him outrageously. For once, he didn’t mind, though he quickly put her in the mental column of potential mothers as a ‘No way!’

As Harry was finishing up his fish, the whisperers suddenly fell silent as a couple entered. Harry looked up and saw his wife being seated with a man who appeared to be a doctor or possibly a Healer. It all clicked into place for Harry. Finally, it all made sense. She wanted to be with someone as clever as she is! He remembered her comments about Adrian’s Healer and wondered when she’d changed her mind about being with him. Obviously it wasn’t Adrian keeping her away. She still saw the boy every day. He clamped down hard on the urge to punch the bloke into next week. He couldn’t do that to her no matter how much he wanted to, so he tossed a few galleons on the table and left, making sure Hermione didn’t see him. He’d let her wonder this time, not him, not anymore.

That afternoon, he received an owl from Ron. The note said that this evening Hermione wanted Adrian to stay over for his birthday the following day. He sent his response straight back to Hermione, declining in a rather crude fashion. He couldn’t bring himself to care. He owled Ron to let him know that he’d answered her request himself. Rather than stopping by to yet again be ignored by Hermione, he decided to pick up the cake he’d ordered from Diagon Alley and the mountain of gifts.

“Hi there! Buying out the toddler section?” he heard as he joined the queue to the cash register. He spun around, careful not to drop the armload of toys he was juggling. It was Corinna.

“Hi,” he returned. “I might’ve taken one of everything, I expect,” he grinned. “My son turns one tomorrow. I want to make it a big deal…”

“I can see that,” she laughed looking at his loaded arms. “I’m sure he’s adorable…”

“He’s a handful, that’s for sure…” Harry smiled.

“But you wouldn’t trade him for the world…” she added.

“No, actually, I wouldn’t. He’s the best thing for me just now…”

“I’d wager your wife would find that fact depressing.”

“Never wager more than you are prepared to lose,” Harry cautioned cryptically with a scowl. “We’re getting a divorce.” The words sounded foreign, even to him.

“I’m sorry to hear that,” she replied. “Is there anything I can do?”

Harry smiled. “Thanks, but no. I’m… It’s…We’re adjusting.”

“I always thought you were the perfect couple.”

“I did, too,” Harry admitted as he laid his purchases on the counter. He pulled out his moneybag and handed over a stack of galleons.

“I cannot believe any woman would turn her back on Harry Potter…” she said slyly. Harry shrugged. “Are there any more like you at home?”

He shrugged again. “No, sorry, only me…” He’s eyes grew large as if a surprising thought had struck him. “Forgive me for asking, but would you be flirting with me?”

Corinna laughed. “About time you caught on… I’d hate to think of what I’d have to resort to next…”

It was Harry’s turn to laugh. “I checked into getting an assistant... Figured it might free up some time…” He lowered his eyes to the floor. “Maybe sometime you might want to…er…spend some of it….er…with me…” He continued staring at his shoes, which was easier now that he wasn’t burdened with the stack of gifts.

“Are you asking me on a date, Captain?”

Harry raised his eyes and grinned at her. “If I were…not that I’m saying I am, mind, but if I were, what would the answer be?”

“I’d love to,” she replied.

“Then I guess I am…” Harry smirked.

“How about this weekend?” she suggested. “Friday?”

“Sounds perfect,” said Harry. He shifted his packages before finally shrinking them down to fit his pocket as they decided on a time and place. “I’ll see you then…”

That night Adrian was awake more than he slept. His teething and drooling was making him miserable. Harry charmed a flannel to remain cold and flexible and paced the floor with the boy as he mouthed it. “It’s a good thing your birthday is tomorrow, young man,” Harry scolded in a teasing voice. “Otherwise, I’d have to work. Your impeccable timing is going to allow us to have a lie-in. What do you say to that?”

“Gramoooooool,” Adrian responded.

“Exactly…” Harry said not knowing what he was agreeing with.

Finally at around three-thirty, Adrian fell asleep. Unwilling to leave the baby alone and miserable, Harry summoned his pillow and blanket and lay down on the floor below the cot.

Adrian woke up before Harry and proceeded to pelt him with the various stuffed animals in his cot. “One-year-olds are vicious!” Harry sat up laughing. He picked up the toy hippogriff and threw it back at his son. Soon it was raining toys in the room as the father and son laughed and played.

Harry changed him and got him dressed before giving him a couple of the gifts. “How old is Adrian?” he asked. Adrian held up a finger. “Very good! My Alien is one today! Happy birthday, Son!”

***

Katrina came over and began her daily cleaning, which went much faster since Harry was playing with the baby. Harry and his son spent the morning investigating the new toys and generally having a great time. Toward noon, Harry picked up Adrian and answered the door when he heard a knock. The smile slid from his face when he saw his wife.

“Adrian, my beautiful boy, Happy Birthday!” she said smiling as she took Adrian from Harry. Harry backed away and said not a word. “I wanted to see him on his birthday. Did his tooth finally break through? He’s been having a bit of trouble with that…” She hugged him and placed him back on the floor to crawl.

“Thanks for telling me, Hermione. I’m probably too thick to reason it out on my own…” Hermione looked at him in confusion. “But he felt better this morning. Maybe the good doctor can take a look at him for you.” Harry strode into the sitting room.

“Da!” Adrian called. “Burpy!” Harry turned around. Adrian was crawling toward him as fast as he could.

Harry couldn’t help but smile. “Yes, My Alien, it is your birthday…let’s get you some lunch and maybe…..more…..presents?”

Adrian clapped. “Pents! Pents!”

Harry completely ignored Hermione as he prepared lunch. He placed Adrian in his high chair and gave him bits of bread while the sausages were cooking. He poured pumpkin juice in a sippy cup and gave that to him as well.

Adrian drank it before slamming the cup down on the tray. “Mo Deuce!” he cried.

“Let’s try some milk this time…” Harry suggested. He saw Hermione leaning against the far wall with tears rolling down her cheeks. He wanted to comfort her, but knew she’d made her choice. He wasn’t going to risk getting rejected again. He bit the inside of his cheek to keep himself from asking the things he’d wanted answers to for months. Now wasn’t the time. “Join us, if you want…” Harry said to her at last.

“Thanks,” she smiled.

“Mummy Deuce!” called Adrian.

“The Birthday Boy has spoken…” Harry said as he poured Hermione’s juice. Harry cut up a few sausages bits and was just about to tip them onto the tray of the baby chair when he noticed her doing the same. “I hope you are hungry…” he told his son. He kept the sausage on his plate in case Adrian wanted more.

“Harry…” she began. He looked at her coldly. She lost her nerve and remained silent. She gathered her nerve and began again. “May I take him this weekend? The whole weekend? Mum wants to…”

“No,” Harry stated vehemently. “You can’t do this. I won’t let you…”

“Harry, look at me,” she said gently. “I’ll have him back Sunday evening around dinner time, I promise… Like I was saying, Mum wants to have a party for him…”

Harry nodded. “Sunday it is, then…” He couldn’t deny her, not anything. He wondered if that doctor would be a part of it. He steered his thoughts back to just her. If she was happy, he’d learn to live with it…somehow.

“Thank you…” she said breathily as if she could hardly believe he’d agree.

The following day at work, Harry was distracted. He needed to make some decisions that were difficult. He pulled the legal document out of his bag and read it carefully this time. He was shocked to notice that he was named as the party with unreasonable behavior as the reason for the divorce. “I’m unreasonable now, am I…” he said sadly to himself. If he was moving on, then it was best to truly do so. He would never be a doctor or a Healer. He was a fighter. It was what he’d been raised to be. He trained others to fight. If the doctor made her happy, then he, Harry, wouldn’t stand in her way. He took quill in hand and signed the papers. He sent them to the solicitor before he could change his mind.

The practical training that morning went horribly. He knew he shouldn’t have even attempted dueling in his current state of mind. He’d been soundly beaten and for the first time since his teaching career began, he was sent to the hospital wing. His reputation was still intact, however. The trainees figured he threw the duels on purpose to demonstrate how concentration played a part. Luckily for him, it was a rookie class. He went home stiff and sore, but with no permanent damage.

His luck held out that his son was so tired from the previous day’s activities. He was able to sleep for an hour while Adrian extended his afternoon nap. Once awake, Harry took his son to the Muggle grocery store to pick up a few staples. In queue for the check out stand, he spotted a magazine for women. The headlines proclaimed an article describing the perfect date. Harry tossed the magazine in his basket, careful to not squash the bread and paid for the lot.

Friday night, he Apparated to the address Corinna had given him. When she opened the door, he held out a bouquet of flowers.

“Thank you, Captain. No one’s ever given me flowers before…”

“Oh, it isn’t done anymore? Sorry, I’m rubbish at this…”

Corinna gave him a dazzling smile. “I think they are beautiful and you are very sweet to think of it.” Harry smiled shyly. “Are you ready?”

The couple Apparated to the Leaky Cauldron and passed into Muggle London. Harry had made reservations at a trendy restaurant. They were shown to a secluded table and Harry held her chair for her then sat down himself.

“Why do you say you aren’t good at dating?” she asked as they finished their dinner. “You’re doing fine so far…”

“Thanks,” Harry replied. “I’ve haven’t done it much. Hermione was my best friend, so it wasn’t really a date when we went out. Usually Ron was with us. The only difference was that I would hold her hand.”

“May I ask what happened? I mean, you don’t have to tell me….”

“I’m not sure, really. Shortly after the baby was born, she just pulled away. Then she moved out and now she wants a divorce. She hasn’t said anything to me. I mean I’ve figured out some of it, but… I don’t know. I think she’s decided that I’m not clever enough. I think she’s dating a doctor or Healer or something…”

“You were clever enough to win the war…” Corinna reminded him.

“That wasn’t cleverness. I had loads of help…”

“I think you were very brave…I’ve read all about it…”

Harry snorted. “Thanks, but I’m a Gryffindor. It sort of comes with the territory. Besides, what is bravery? To me, it’s only being able to stand and not run for five minutes longer than everyone else.”

“What type of relationship are you looking for?” she asked. “It’s best to know up front, you know…”

“I haven’t thought about it much,” Harry replied. “I’m quite sure my son needs a mum. My parents were killed when I was very young, so I know I want a two parent environment for him.”

“I’m sure he’s adorable…and I do love kids, so we’re compatible there. Are you looking for a new wife or just someone to spend time with?”

“I haven’t thought that far ahead and I won’t, at least until I’m single again. You should know…I still love her. I’m not looking to fall in love again.”

“That makes sense,” she agreed. “I was engaged once. I can understand a bit about how you feel.”

“What happened?” he asked.

“We just wanted different things. He wanted to travel, see the world and have fun. I wanted to stay home, raise a family and enjoy the country we were blessed with.”

They talked for awhile longer before Harry paid the bill. They walked around Muggle London, talking and window shopping. “Why did we go to a Muggle restaurant?” she asked.

“It gets complicated in the wizarding world. Every move I make is reported in the paper. The Muggle way is easier. I’m just another face in the crowd.”

She took his hand. “I’m finding you to be entirely different than my preconceived notions…”

“Is that good or bad?” he chuckled. She stopped walking and placed herself in front of him. He looked at her. She kissed him. He smiled. “Oh, well it’s good, then. I can handle that.”

They stopped in a quiet pub and talked a bit more before he noticed that it was getting quite late.

“I should get home soon,” she said sadly. Harry nodded. He led them around the corner of the pub to a dark alley, where he kissed her again before Apparating back to her house. They said good night on her doorstep and he Apparated home.

Ron was waiting for him when he arrived. “Where’ve you been off to until…” he made a great show of looking at his watch, “quarter past midnight?”

Harry wasn’t sure if he should tell Ron what he’d been up to or not. “I was out…” he answered vaguely.

“Oh…” Ron answered as if his friend had given him a detailed answer. “You missed a great party. Adrian had clowns and Muggle magicians. It was hilarious…”

“I wasn’t invited, Ron!” Harry replied angrily. “She didn’t want me there…”

“You’re his father. Why wouldn’t she want you there?”

“You seem to be forgetting we are getting a divorce. That means she doesn’t want me around…besides, three’s a crowd…”

“So where’d you go?”

“I was out,” Harry repeated.

“By yourself?”

“I never said I was by myself, Ron…”

Ron looked as if he’d been struck. “What about Hermione?”

It was Harry’s turn to be shocked. His anger rose as he turned toward the window. “What about her? She wants a divorce, Ron! What am I supposed to do…sit around and wait in case she changes her mind? Forget it. She has her new life and now I have mine…I’m going to bed. You can show yourself out…”

***

The next morning, Harry followed the wonderful smells of breakfast into the kitchen. Ron was still there and had prepared an enormous amount. “I’m sorry, mate. I had no right…” Harry looked at him. “So who’s the lucky lady?” Ron grinned.

Harry forgave him instantly and grinned. “Just someone I know from work…”

“What did you do?”

“We had dinner, walked a bit, had a few drinks and talked…”

“Oh, that’s okay then. Are you going to see her again?”

“She’s invited me over for dinner tonight.”

“A bit soon, innit?”

“I don’t know, Ron, you tell me…I don’t have much experience with this.”

“Just keep it simple, mate. Don’t rush into to anything.”

Harry found himself at a loss for what to do. Corinna had prepared a very nice dinner. They’d watched the telly for a bit and now she’d left to do… something. He didn’t know what. He’d assumed she’d gone to the loo, but she’d been gone too long. He wondered what the cool thing to do would be. Changing the channel was too presumptuous; the magazines on the table were all of women’s fashions; he’d look like an idiot glancing through those. He decided he’d just sit quietly and wait; but he found himself too restless for that. He got up and crossed to the window. That was a safe option. He’d just stand by the window and look out. “Harry…” she said. He turned around. She was wearing an extremely short nightgown that left very little to the imagination. His jaw dropped.

“You look…beautiful…” he said as she sauntered toward him. She reached for his hand and led him back to the couch. He was suddenly glad he’d made an embarrassing trip to the chemists that day…just in case. “We need to talk about this first…” he said. “Are you sure you want to do this? I’ve only been with one other person…and…er… it’s been a really long time…”

“I understand,” she replied. She kissed him long and hard. Harry excused himself and went into the loo. He looked at himself in the mirror and wondered if he could go through with it. The mirror, sensing his anguish, remained thankfully silent. He gave himself a mental shake before he cast every protection and anti-fertility charm he knew on himself. He checked his wallet for the condom he’d placed there earlier and opened the door.

She smiled at him and crossed the room to stand in front of him. “Are you alright?” she asked.

“Sorry,” he answered, “just a bit nervous…”

“There’s no reason to be…” she answered. He kissed her again before she led him by the hand into her bedroom….

Harry walked slowly back to the couch and put his head in his hands as he sat down. She joined him there. “I am really sorry,” he said.

“No,” she answered. “It’s my fault. You obviously weren’t ready…”

“It’s not that I was picturing her or pretending… I wasn’t…”

“I know,” she said gently. “You still love her and…”

“I said her name without meaning to…”

“While making love to me…”

“I really am sorry... It’s just…every experience of… well…that, has included her.”

“I understand, Harry. It’s just… you aren’t willing to give her up yet.” She thought for a minute before she continued. “I get the feeling, especially now, that if she were to come back, you’d be the happiest man in the world…” Harry agreed with her, but felt he should probably not say so. “I also think we should probably not see each other anymore…for awhile.” He looked at her. “Who knows, maybe in time, you’ll be eager to try again… If I happen to be free, I’d like to give us another chance.”

“That would be nice,” he said.

“I’m not going to wait for you, Harry. I can’t, and you don’t want me to, but if ever or whenever you are ready, just say the word…”

Chapter 4

Hermione would be here soon with Adrian and Harry didn’t know how to face her. He knew he’d done nothing to feel guilty about…probably… but he was about to see his wife after sleeping with another woman…soon to be ex-wife, he corrected himself. Still, though, he preferred to avoid it. He found the whole idea disconcerting.

Finally, she was there. She took the sleeping Adrian up and laid him in his crib. She noticed that Harry was edgy. “Are you alright?” she asked.

“Fine…you?” he answered not meeting her eyes. He could not believe that today of all days she wanted to talk. He stared at her shoes. He hated the awkwardness between them. It angered him that it had come to this. He’d normally talk to Hermione about this kind of thing, but he couldn’t do that this time. “So, I’ll see you around…” he said hoping she’d get the hint and leave.

“Alright,” she replied sadly as she headed toward the door.

Ron came over later that evening after Adrian was in bed. Harry found that he couldn’t look at him either. He poured them each a drink and sipped his slowly.

I Floo’ed you last night,” Ron said casually while eyeing Harry.

“Perhaps I was already in bed…” Harry replied. He cringed inwardly at his stupidity. He didn’t want to mention anything about beds.

“Perhaps…” Ron repeated. “Except for the fact that I came over and know you weren’t…”

“Why would you do that?” Harry asked. He sounded guilty even to his own ears.

“I wanted to catch you before you made plans for next weekend. I’ve got tickets to the Puddlemere game. Want to go?”

Harry brightened. Maybe he wasn’t caught out after all. “Yeah, sure, I can go.”

“So you weren’t back from your date at two in the morning?”

“Er…no…we were talking, see, and it got quite late…”

“Talking…” Ron repeated skeptically.

“Yeah, talking…” Harry got up to refill his drink that was still two-thirds full.

“Is that why there’s a box of Muggle sheaths on your kitchen counter?”

“Oh shite,” Harry said. He dropped the glass, shattering and spilling it on the floor. “What?” he asked.

“I asked why there was an open box of …”

“I heard you!” he shouted. He looked at Ron. “Sorry.”

“So… How was it?”

Harry couldn’t tell if Ron was okay with this or not, so he didn’t know if he should speak frankly or deny it. “What did you want to know?” He Vanished the mess and hoped Ron would get to the point.

“You shagged her, right?” Harry remained silent and kept his face noncommittal. He kept up his hope that Ron would clue him in on where this conversation was going. “Was it fast and frenetic? Slow and meaningful?”

Harry relaxed as he returned to his seat. “It was a complete fiasco, now you mention it…”

“What happened?” Ron asked. Harry stayed silent. “Please don’t tell me that ‘little Harry’ didn’t get in the game…”

Harry smiled. “No, that’s not it…Do not impugn ‘little Harry’…”

“So, what happened?” Ron asked more urgently.

Harry sighed heavily before he began speaking. “It was great…for awhile… It was different, though… I mean, with Hermione…it’s like she and I instinctively just know what the other wants… or needs. But with Corinna, I… had to sort it out on my own and…” He paused and looked at his friend. Seeing that Ron was waiting to hear the rest he continued. “Let’s just say that there are certain times when a man can say the wrong thing…”

“What did you say?” Ron asked fascinated.

“I called her Hermione…”

“You didn’t!” Ron gasped.

“It wasn’t on purpose, I assure you!” Harry said in irritation.

“What did she say?”

“I apologized all over the place. She said she understood and that I wasn’t ready to move on yet. She said that if that day comes that we could try again if she’s available.”

“At least she didn’t cry…”

“Yeah…I suppose…”

“What are you going to do about Hermione?” Ron asked.

“There’s nothing to be done. She’s seeing that doctor…”

“You know about that? She wasn’t going to tell you…”

“I saw them having lunch…” Harry answered.

“When was this?”

“Right after I got the divorce notice…”

“Think you two will ever get back together?” Ron asked.

“No, I don’t,” Harry said painfully. “She’s moved on. I’ll have to learn to do the same, I expect.”

“That’s what you think, is it?”

The two talked for short while longer. Finally Ron took his leave. Harry checked on Adrian, who was still sleeping, and went to bed himself. He was exhausted, but his mind was racing. His thoughts wanted to remember happier times, but the happiest he’d ever had were with his wife.

Flashback

“I love this house!” Hermione beamed. “Thank you!”

Harry grinned at her as he carried more boxes in. “Thank you,” he responded. “Seems like the best times in my life involve you…” She twirled around enjoying the spacious bedroom. “Where are you going to want the furniture?”

She raced to the opposite wall. “I want the wardrobe here… and the dresser…here.” She ran from spot to spot naming furniture.

“Where do you want our bed?” he asked.

“Our bed…that has an intriguing ring to it…” she laughed in a deep sultry tone and pointed to the space below the window. She lowered herself to the floor.

“Are you sure that’s where you want it?”

“I think so…” she said, “but maybe we should test a few spots out to make sure….”

Harry looked at her in confusion. “What difference does it make?”

“You are right, of course. When I’m laying underneath your body…writhing in ecstasy…”

“Wr-wr-writhing?” Harry squeaked. He fingered his collar as he felt the room get warm.

She laughed. “Oh yes, writhing,” she repeated. “And you are pressing me into the mattress as you fill my body…”

Harry relaxed as he slid down the wall into the floor. He listened to her words with his eyes closed. “You are very good at this…”

“That’s not all I’m good at…” she teased. He looked at her. She began crawling toward him like a tiger stalking its prey.

“Very true,” he replied as she came close enough to touch. He grabbed her arms and pulled her into his lap.

“I am also good at making you moan…gasp… pant…”

“Show me,” he replied capturing her lips in a fiery kiss.

End flashback

Harry realized his memories were making it that much more difficult to fall asleep. Giving it up as a bad job, he returned downstairs. As he sat staring out the window, his fireplace roared to life. He raised his wand protectively. He dropped it the moment he saw her step from the fire.

“I’m sorry,” Hermione said. “I had to come…”

“What are you doing here?” he asked.

“I wanted to talk to you…”

“Why now, Hermione? I’ve begged for nearly a year. You weren’t so eager then…”

“I know and I’m so very sorry. May I come in? I just want to explain some things…”

Harry shrugged and turned back toward the window. If she wanted to tell him how she was falling in love with that doctor bloke, he wasn’t sure if he was up to hearing it.

“Can we sit down?” Harry shrugged again and followed her to the couch. He sat on the end farthest from her. “I want to tell you everything, if you’ll let me…” She waited for him to say something. When he didn’t, she continued. “When Adrian was born, I was the happiest I’ve been in my entire life…” she said. Harry kept his gaze on the fire. “Soon after we were home, it got more and more difficult to care for him. I thought it was normal ‘baby blues’ and tried to deal with it. Do you remember that?” Harry nodded.

“It progressed to the point where I couldn’t even face getting out of bed. While you were at work, I provided Adrian only the most basic of care and counted the minutes when you would come home to take over. I only wanted you to so I could go to bed and sleep…but I couldn’t sleep. I just lay there reliving what a failure I was as a mother and how you’d both be better off without me.” Harry raised his eyes and looked at her. “I couldn’t bear the seeing disappointment in your eyes.” She laughed sadly. “And, well I’ve never been able to handle failure properly…”

“It got worse and I couldn’t handle being here anymore. Mum helped me to see that I had what’s known as Postnatal Depression and that I needed help. It’s taken awhile, but I am getting better. I see now that I handled things badly and I’ve been horrible to you. I thought I was trying to protect you, but I only hurt you more…over and over. I’ve been seeing a counselor and taking potions and…”

“Seeing a counselor?” he asked.

“Yes, seeing as in being the patient of…does that bother you?”

“No, not at all. It’s just that…”

“What happened that day at that restaurant?” she interrupted. “Everyone said you were there…I didn’t see you…I thought you might be avoiding me.”

“I saw you walk in with that guy and I left, that’s all…I’ve never avoided you. I thought…”

“You thought we were there socially?” she asked.

“Yeah, I was jealous.” Harry scowled.

“I can see where you would be. I know how I acted over Adrian’s doctor…that was part of the illness. It wasn’t that I found him especially attractive; it was more that I found him safe. At the time, I felt like if he was close and something happened to Adrian, he’d be able to save him where you or I wouldn’t. There’s never been anyone else for me, but you…”

“You have a funny way of showing it…You’ve been avoiding me for months…”

“I know. I was horrible, like I said. I filed those papers to rid you of me. I was a failure as a wife and mother and thought you deserved better. I felt if I loved you enough, I should set you free.”

“Yes, well, that makes no sense whatsoever…’you love me enough to divorce me,’ besides what was the ‘unreasonable behavior’ that I supposedly did?”

“That’s pretty much a catch-all phrase; sort of like, ‘if none of the others apply, use this one.’ I know you never did anything. I know how hard you tried. You had faith in us, even when I didn’t. You never deserted me; you weren’t unfaithful to me…”

Harry’s face turned almost the color of ripe tomatoes. If what she was saying was true, then he had been unfaithful to her. He just didn’t know it at the time. Still, he couldn’t tell her that. He’d rather die first or face Voldemort again or…

“Harry…look at me…” she said gently. He shook his head and stared at the flames. “Harry, I know already…you don’t need to tell me.”

Harry’s eyes got huge before he covered his face with his hands, mumbling about murdering Ron. “Ron didn’t tell me,” she continued. “He lied to me actually. He said you went out and nothing ever happened…” Harry scrubbed at his face with his hands. “I know him almost as well as I know you…he’s not a very good liar. And if I weren’t sure before, which I was, your body language is screaming it at me right now…” Harry continued the assault on his facial features. She reached out a hand to still his.

“It’s all right…” she said in a soothing tone. “I know what happened…in essence, and I know why. It’s entirely my fault. I have no one else to blame, certainly not you… If I had told you what was going on, if I had explained rather than hiding, it never would have happened. Look at me, Harry. See the truth in my eyes…”

“I’m so sorry…” he said in a feeble tone.

“Don’t be. I take full blame. There isn’t enough left to share with you…” she smiled.

He finally raised his eyes to hers. “Where do we go from here?” he asked.

“That’s up to you…” she answered. “I’m feeling well enough to come home, if you’ll have me. My doctor thinks I may be, but when Ron talked to me this evening…”

“Ron talked to you?”

“Yes, he wanted to explain how this all looked from your eyes. He told me I was going to lose you. I’ve been operating under the misconception that you understood what I was doing and why. I’ve been very selfish. I hadn’t seen how it all looked to you and for that I apologize, as well. I’m sorry you felt I had abandoned you. I’m sorry you felt I didn’t love you. From my viewpoint it was only because I loved you that I could do this. I expected you to know so much about it and understand when I didn’t myself.”

Harry remained silent. While he was trying to understand, he found it difficult to get past his feelings on her actions.

“Now, I’m going to make this easy for you, since I’ve made the last year so difficult. I’m going back to Mum’s. When you are ready to forgive me, if you want to start again, stop by after work. I’ll talk to you then, I promise. No more hiding… No more running.” Harry remained silent. She picked up her bag and walked back to the fireplace to leave.

“Please don’t go…” he said in a voice barely more than a whisper. He stood and stared at her.

She spun around and raced into his arms. He wrapped his arms tightly around her. He heard the sounds of their whispering “I’m so sorry,” and “I love you so much.” He wasn’t sure which of them was saying what, but decided it really didn’t matter. He brought his lips to hers.

They spent the next few hours talking, interspersed with quite a bit of kissing. Over the following days and weeks, even while walking on eggshells around each other, they discussed the illness, the future, her counseling, everything. One night as they were lying in bed, she shocked him by asking, “What was her name?”

“Hermione…” he complained. “You really don’t want to talk about this, do you?”

“Yes, Harry, I want to know.”

“Corinna, there…satisfied?”

“No…” she sighed. “I don’t want to make you uncomfortable, love, but we always talked about these things before we got involved. It just feels strange that you had this experience that I don’t know anything about…”

“I cannot believe you want to talk about this… especially right now.”

“Why not?” she asked as she raised herself up on one elbow to look at him, “We’ve always talked after making love…and this is what I want to talk about.”

“Why?” he asked determinedly.

“For one, the curiosity is killing me. Secondly, I need to know the competition…”

“There is no competition…” Harry answered.

“And thirdly, I want it all out in the open… Did you use protection? I’ve always taken care of it for us, but…”

Harry rolled his eyes knowing she would badger him until he gave her everything she wanted to know. “Yes.”

“Was it adequate? I mean, if she got pregnant, that would cause complications that we’d need to discuss…”

“Fairly adequate, I expect…”

“Which charm?”

“Hermione!”

“Just tell me. It’s not that difficult. There are sixteen charms to choose from, which one did you use? I know your Infecundus Charm isn’t the best…which one did you use?”

“Er…more than one…”

“Oh my, we were nervous, weren’t we?” she teased. “How many?” Harry mumbled something under his breath. “What was that?” she asked. “I didn’t catch it….”

“I cast every one I could think of, alright?” Harry was getting irritable, but when he thought about it, he noticed she was right. He felt the same as when they’d talked about his relationships before they got together. While he wasn’t eager to discuss it, he understood that it made her feel involved in his life…as if even though they were separated, they were still friends. She laughed. “I’m glad you think it’s funny…” he grumbled. “I won’t have to tell you then that I had a Durex to boot…”

She laughed even harder. After a bit of grumbling, Harry joined in.

The Christmas Party for the Academy that year was a tense affair for Captain Potter. He spent the evening trying to keep his wife and former lover on opposite sides of the hall. It wasn’t as if he expected trouble, he just knew his wife well enough to know that her curiosity wasn’t sated on the matter.

The prior weekend, he’d taken her to Paris to search for a dress. He was glad he did. The dress she chose made her the most beautiful woman there. Corinna looked very nice, as all the women did, but his wife shined with a class the others couldn’t begin to match. He knew he was biased in his opinion, but he didn’t care.

“Which one is she?” Hermione whispered to him.

“Which one is who, love?” he asked in return hoping she wasn’t asking what he thought she was asking.

“Corinna,” she answered confirming his fears.

“Does it matter?” he asked. “Let’s dance…”

Hermione chuckled and allowed him to pull her onto the dance floor. She knew he must be nervous to even suggest it. He’d wanted to skive off tonight, but neither her inquisitive nature nor her slight irrational need for a bit of revenge on the two of them allowed for that. She wanted to meet this Corinna and size her up. She’d just have to work a bit harder to get her husband to cooperate. She’d narrowed it down to five possibilities.

Once the dance was finished, Harry offered to fetch a drink for her. He walked to the bar and ordered for the both of them.

“How’ve you been, Captain?”

He turned around and was face to face with Corinna. “I’ve been really good, thanks. How about yourself?”

“Hanging in there,” she smiled. “I heard about you and your wife. I’m really happy for you.”

“As callous as this may sound, I’m really happy myself…” He smiled and looked for Hermione. Thankfully he didn’t see her.

“Harry, love, care to introduce me to your colleague?” came a voice behind him. His eyes took on a deer-in-the-headlights look about them. Luck was not going his way this evening.

“Yes, yes of course. Hermione, I’d like you to meet Captain McVie’s assistant, Corinna Andrews. Corinna, my wife, Hermione Potter…”

“It’s nice to finally meet you,” Corinna said politely. “I’ve heard so much about you.”

Hermione beamed at her. “Likewise, I’m sure…” She gave her a sly, challenging look. “Did you bring a date this evening?”

“Yes, an old friend from school…” Corinna answered.

“I’m sure Harry would love to arrange for the two of you to be seated with us at our table…” Harry went into a coughing fit. “It’s so much better up at the front…”

Corinna, never being one to back down from any challenge, accepted readily. Harry, on the other hand, wanted to Disapparate…the sooner the better. While Hermione greeted Corinna’s date, Harry made the proper arrangements his wife requested before they found their seats. He saw that Hermione had placed herself beside Corinna and wondered what she was playing at.

The speech portion of the program went very quickly. Every so often Hermione leaned over to him and whisper mindless things. He thought he knew what she was doing. He was wrong. He thought she was putting on an act to show Corinna how happy they were.

“Corinna is very pretty…” she whispered. He gave her a slight nod as he pretended to listen to the Finance Director deliver his annual report.

“I’m sure most men would find her incredibly sexy…” she whispered again. Harry didn’t react. He figured agreeing with her would be suicide and disagreeing would make him a liar.

Finally, the speeches were over and dinner was served. Harry ordered double firewhiskey. Hermione chuckled and ordered white wine for herself. “Corinna, you went out with my husband…how many times was it?”

“Twice…” Corinna answered warily. “Why do you ask?”

Hermione laughed. “Nothing sinister, I assure you. I’d just like to get the full picture and my husband is notoriously scant with the details.”

“Hermione…” Harry cautioned.

“I have nothing to hide…” said Corinna daringly. “Why don’t we send the blokes to the bar and have us a little chat…” Harry grumbled as he left the table with Robert, Corinna’s date. “Now, Mrs. Potter, let’s lay our cards out on the table…”

“I thought you’d never ask…” Hermione brazenly replied.

The two women talked for quite awhile. Harry kept watch on when it might be safe to return. His nervousness caused him to drink more than he usually did and he noticed about two drinks too late that he should have switched to butterbeer.

Soon Hermione approached him and kissed him deeply in front of everyone. “What was that for?” he asked.

“Because I have the most wonderful husband in the entire world…Dance with me…” She led him out to the floor and pressed herself tightly against him. “Corinna told me what happened…and how it happened…and how it ended.”

“And?” he prompted.

“While I apologize for making you uncomfortable this evening, and I will make it up to you…” She gave him a saucy wink. “But I’m glad I did it. I like Corinna. If circumstances were different, we might have become friends. I can see why you chose her…I wanted to watch the two of you interact to see if I needed to worry. I am satisfied now that I don’t.”

“I told you there was no reason to worry…” Harry reminded her.

“I know, but it was something I needed to see for myself…Now, what I find so impeccably hot is that you said my name…”

“Hot?” Harry squeaked as he loosened the tie of his dress robes.

“Oh yes…most definitely hot…” Once the song was done, she led him off the dance floor and toward the exit.

Once they were surrounded by darkness, he turned her to face him. “Show me…” he panted.

finite