Unofficial Portkey Archive

A/N: Well, here's the next chapter. To those of you who reviewed the last chapter, THANK YOU!!! Nothing makes my day like a review. I'm not sure when I'll post the next chapter (gotta keep you on your toes!). Happy reading!

xoxo Allie

__________

Come Dance With Me

Pretty face, I know a swinging place

Come on, dance with me.

Romance with me on a crowded floor.

When Harry saw the darkened windows of the house, he said, "Do you think Remus went to bed?"

"I don't know," Hermione replied, "but let's go inside. It's getting cold out here." Harry put his arm around her for warmth and steered her toward the door. He turned the knob and ushered her inside.

"SURPRISE!!!" Harry could hardly believe his eyes. Practically everyone he knew was packed into the foyer, smiling, waving and cheering.

"Hermione, did you do this?" he asked.

A very becoming blush crept to her cheeks. "Yes," she replied, "but Remus and Molly really helped a lot."

He pulled her closer, gave her a little squeeze, and planted a gentle kiss on the top of her head. "Thank you so much. This is amazing. I've never had a birthday party before."

Hermione was struggling to accept that this little exchange had actually happened. He had never been quite so physically affectionate with her before. It was almost as if he felt something more for her. Could he actually like me? Of course he doesn't, silly girl. You're best friends. He probably just missed you. He's still suffering from losing Dumbledore and Sirius. He probably just wanted human contact. He hasn't had much in his life. He just got caught up in the moment. If only it did mean more….

Harry looked at Hermione. She's never looked at me like that before. He noted the care, tenderness, and--dare he think it--desire of her gaze. No, she's just happy that I like her surprise. She could have any guy she wanted. She doesn't want me like that.

Harry saw the familiar red head of Ron Weasley towering above most of the others in the room and heading in their direction. It wasn't until then that Harry really remembered that he and Hermione were no longer alone, but were in a room crowded with pretty much everyone they knew. He quickly dropped his arm from her waist and jumped away guiltily.

"Harry! Happy birthday!" Ron said, grinning, as he clapped a hand on Harry's shoulder.

"Thanks Ron. How has your summer been so far? Done anything terribly exciting?"

"Not bad, not bad," Ron said, glancing furtively in Hermione's direction. "It's been interesting, and it's gone by too fast. Well, don't just stand there, it's your party! Let's get to it!!"

Remus Lupin enveloped Harry in a hug. "How are you doing Harry?" he asked.

"I'm good Remus. How are you and--Tonks!" A young witch with bubblegum-pink hair apparated over to them and gave Harry a tight hug.

"Wotcher, Harry."

Remus laughed and put an arm around Tonks's waist. "As you can see Harry, we're fine."

"Good to hear."

Harry then shook hands with Mad-Eye Moody, Kingsley Shacklebolt and all the Weasley men. Fleur Delacour, soon to be Mrs. Bill Weasley, kissed his cheeks and said "'Appy birthday 'Arry!"

"Thanks Fleur. When's the wedding?"

Fleur beamed. "Two weeks from today. Gabrielle is looking forward to seeing you. You will be there?"

"I wouldn't miss it for the world Fleur," he said hugging her before being accosted by Molly Weasley.

"Happy birthday dear! Oh, you're so thin! Come blow out the candles and eat something!" she cried, pushing him toward the kitchen.

Someone dimmed the lights as Molly brought out a cake. She had bewitched it so tiny iced broomsticks zoomed to and fro about the frosting. Seventeen flames flickered from the candles. Ron stood on Harry's right, Hermione on his left. Everyone began singing, and Hermione gave Harry's hand a quick squeeze. Harry closed his eyes and made a wish. Everyone clapped as the cake began serving itself. Harry, Ron and Hermione took their cake and moved to a large sofa in the corner, where they were soon joined by their schoolmates and fellow DA members Neville Longbottom, Seamus Finnigan, Lavender Brown, Parvati Patil, Susan Bones, Ernie MacMillan, Hannah Abbott, Justin Finch-Fletchley and Luna Lovegood. Colin Creevey was snapping pictures of the group, while Dean Thomas and Ginny Weasley talked in the corner across the room. Ginny kept shooting covetous looks in Harry's direction. Harry didn't notice, but Hermione did, and she felt a tinge of anger rising. Harry doesn't want her. Why doesn't she get it? Oh bollocks, I'm starting to sound like one of those awful girls consumed with petty jealousy. Ok, well maybe I am jealous. But that's not the point. If he wanted her, he'd have her. She needs to stop leading poor Dean on.

"Hermione," Harry said softly, bringing her back to reality.

"Hmm?"

"Come on, Colin wants a picture of the three of us."

He put an arm around her waist, the other around Ron's shoulders. Hermione placed her head on Harry's shoulder, and he pulled her closer. All three smiled for the camera.

Harry was wondering if this would be one of their last happy moments together. Too bad things won't stay this way.

Ron's eyes narrowed when he noticed Harry's arm around Hermione's waist and her head on his shoulder. They're awful touchy-feely tonight, and I don't like it.

Hermione's thoughts also strayed to the arm around her waist. I don't think I'll ever feel so safe and protected with anyone else.

Someone decided Harry should open his gifts, so everyone hurried to give him theirs first. The members of the DA gave him a set of defensive spellbooks. Molly had knitted him three jumpers and Arthur added a copy of The Big Book of Hexes. Bill and Fleur's present was a magical compass, rather similar to a Muggle GPS tracker, except that it also had a multi-purpose pocketknife and a mini-potion kit. Charlie gave Harry a brown dragonhide jacket that could resist most spells. The twins provided a massive box of their best fireworks in addition to some of their newest inventions that would aid him in his fight with Voldemort. Ron gave Harry an assortment of chocolate frogs, Bertie Botts Every Flavor Beans, sugar quills and licorice wands. Tonks's present was a subscription to Quidditch Monthly. Hermione had knitted Harry a Gryffindor Lions afghan (although she wouldn't admit whether or not she had bewitched the needles). Moody and Kingsley had gotten Harry a new high-tech sneakoscope. Remus's gift was a box of mementos of James, Lily and Sirius. Among the box were James's Quidditch jersey, Lily's engagement ring and Sirius's pocket watch with a picture of the three loyal Marauders with Lily. Harry was so overwhelmed that he thanked everyone and excused himself for a few moments.

When Harry opened the door of his bedroom, he was met by the last thing he expected. Ginny Weasley was lying on his bed in a tight blue top and black miniskirt, a gift bow perched on her head. This could not possibly lead to anything good.

"Ginny, what are you-"

"Aren't you going to open your present Harry?" she asked huskily.

"Ginny, we're not together anymore. I broke up with you almost two months ago," Harry replied.

"It's okay, I know you didn't really want to. You were just being noble." She gave him a lusty gaze and slowly crawled toward him.

Harry took a slightly frightened step back. He felt like prey. "No Ginny," he said adamantly. "I did want to. I'm not interested in you like that anymore. This," he said gesturing between the two of them, "isn't going to be happening again. I'm sorry if it sounds mean, but you need to move on."

Ginny's eyes blazed with anger. " You'll come around eventually darling. And when you do, I'll be waiting. This is hardly the last you'll see of me, Harry Potter." She exited the room, running her hand down his chest as she made her way out the door.

Harry sighed and went back downstairs. Someone had begun to play music, and several people were dancing. Harry noticed Hermione sitting alone, looking thoughtfully out the window.

"Hermione, would you like to dance?" he asked, offering her his hand.

Hermione smiled and took it. The upbeat disco song changed to Frank Sinatra's "The Way You Look Tonight." Harry kept Hermione's hand clasped in his as he placed his other on the now-familiar curve of her waist. He twirled her expertly around the floor, spun her out, and pulled her back, holding her closer. Neither noticed anyone else around them; they were focused only on each other. At one point he dipped her so suddenly that Hermione gasped.

"What," he whispered, "did you really think I'd let you fall?"

"Of course not," she replied, "it was just sudden is all."

The song ended and Harry kissed Hermione's hand. "Thank you for the dance."

Hermione replied, "You're welcome," and gave a small curtsy. They both looked at each other and collapsed into fits of laughter.

"Where did you learn to dance like that? You certainly weren't busting any moves like that at the Yule Ball," Hermione said with a snicker.

"Well I felt like a complete prat at the Yule Ball, so I had Neville give me a few lessons. But don't tell Ron. You know he'd never let me live it down. Actually, he probably wouldn't let Neville live it down either, and the last thing Neville needs is another thing to worry about."

"I won't," Hermione laughed.

Neither noticed a now more-clothed Ginny glowering at them as she danced closely with Dean.

Eventually people began trickling out. Harry asked Ron if he'd like to stay, but was met with, "I'd love to mate, but mum would kill me if I skived off. She's been insane about this wedding. Merlin forbid a guy get a break from all the talk about lace, flowers, makeup and seating arrangements. It's sickening, it is." Ron wished Harry a happy birthday once more, gave Hermione a lingering hug and flooed home.

"What about you Mione?" he asked, "I'd love some company. Remus and Tonks are spending a couple of weeks in Ibiza. Hell, stay the rest of the summer if you like."

"Really Harry? Oh thank you!" she wrapped her arms around his neck.

I could definitely get used to this. Harry returned her embrace, content for the moment.

Harry and Hermione were still holding on to each other when a tawny owl swooped in and dropped a bit of parchment on Harry's head. He let go of her as she laughed and he read it out loud.

Dear Mr. Potter,

Melissa Montoya
Department of Magical Transportation

"Congratulations Harry," Hermione grinned. "I guess it's a good thing the owl dropped a note on your head. Other things could have been much less pleasant. And much more messy."

"You're such a comedian," he said, rolling his eyes. "But thanks. I'll show you to your room." Hermione followed him up the steps, and upon reaching the second landing, he opened the door next to his.

"I know it's not much, but-"

"Harry, it's fine," she assured him. Though what Harry had said was true, the room wasn't much (a slightly rundown bed with thin blankets and a dresser with a leg missing), Hermione didn't really care. I'd sleep in dirt if it meant getting to be so close to Harry.

"I want to redecorate the whole house. It's entirely too gloomy. Would you help? I'm not really good at these types of things. I'd like to get started today if possible." And I want to start with your room. You deserve so much better than this, and I can give it to you, so I will.

"Sure, I'd like to help," Hermione said, smiling at him.

"Well, I'll leave you to get settled in." He smiled at her, and without another word, he retreated to his own room.

__________

Photograph

It's just another story caught up in another photograph I found,

And it seems like another person lived that life so many years ago from now.

Half an hour later, a soft knock came at Harry's door.

"Come in." He looked up as Hermione entered wearing a pair of cherry-print flannel boxers, a white tank top and a pair of furry slippers. She was carrying a large book in her hand, but Harry was focused more on her long, tan legs. Does she have any idea what she does to me? Even in her pajamas, she is completely gorgeous. And she should definitely show off those legs of hers a little more…

Hermione was startled to find Harry sitting on his bed wearing only a pair of gray sweats. Six years of Quidditch have left him with some VERY defined muscles. And that hair...I doubt he realizes how sexy that uncontrollable hair of his is. Every time I see him, I just want to run my hands through it…

"Hey," Harry said, his gaze abandoning the pictures Remus had given him in favor of Hermione. "Have a seat," he said, patting the bed next to him, and she sat down. "What's up?"

"I have another present for you," she said, handing him the book. "I didn't want to give it to you in front of everybody else, because it's kind of personal." He gave her a quizzical look and opened it. On the first page was a picture of the trio, taken in front of Hagrid's hut their first year at Hogwarts. Hermione was in the middle, one arm around each of the boys, who each had an arm around her. They were all grinning.

"That seems like a lifetime ago," Harry said before he turned the page.

Each new picture brought back memories of their six years together. Hermione holding Harry's hand in the hospital wing while he looked around groggily (this scene had occurred so many times that he wasn't sure when it was taken). Harry climbing onto Buckbeak's back, while Ron looked on in awe and Hermione in fright. Hermione on the sofa in the Gryffindor common room, Harry's feet in her lap while his head rested on the arm. Harry with his arm around Hermione on the stairs the night of the Yule Ball. Harry and Ron in their Quidditch robes, each with an arm around Hermione, who was holding the snitch. Harry and Hermione under their favorite tree by the lake, Hedwig on her shoulder, Crookshanks in his lap. The pair of them with the Weasleys at an evening meal at the Burrow. Harry experiencing his first game of Hogwarts Quidditch as a spectator while cheering on Gryffindor with Hermione and Neville during a Quidditch match fifth year. Hermione laughing as Fang pinned Harry to the floor, licking his face. Harry and Hermione in the Hogwarts kitchens with Dobby and Winky while wearing S.P.E.W. badges. All the Gryffindors in their year knocking back butterbeers at The Three Broomsticks. The trio at Harry's birthday party a few hours before, as well as with all present D.A. members. The last picture was also mere hours old, but Harry hadn't known it had been taken. Colin had captured Harry and Hermione at the exact moment that Harry had dipped her on the dance floor.

Harry looked up at Hermione in surprise. "I can't believe you did this for me Mione," he said. "This is probably the nicest thing anyone's ever done for me."

Hermione blushed. "I just didn't want you to forget me in case-" she broke off, lower lip quivering.

"In case of what?" he asked, concerned.

"In case for some reason we get separated when we're older, or if I get k-killed." She was unable to fight the tears any longer, and they fell freely down her face like tiny raindrops.

Harry scooted her onto his lap, wrapping his arms around her while she sobbed into his chest.

"Shh." He rocked her back and forth. "That's never going to happen Mione. I will always be here. I will always be a part of your life. I won't let anyone hurt you."

"I know, I'm just s-s-scared. We're in the m-middle of this war n-now, and you know how V-Voldemort feels about Muggle-borns. What if he uses m-me to get to y-you?"

"I'm scared too Mione," he said, kissing the top of her head. "But if he wants to hurt you, he's going to have to go through me first."

"That's w-what I'm afraid of," she sniffed. "I don't w-want to l-lose you. You're the b-best friend I've ever h-had."

"You won't lose me."

"You d-don't know that for s-sure."

"I feel it in my heart Mione. I have to believe it. If I don't believe in myself, I'll never be able to defeat Voldemort."

"H-Harry?" she looked up at him through wet eyes, tears staining her cheeks. "Would it be okay if I s-slept in here t-tonight? I d-don't think I should b-be alone right n-now."

Harry's brain was reeling. He'd have Hermione in his bed. It was innocent of course, but he'd still feel the warmth of her body next to his. Stop thinking about that Potter! She's not here for a snog or a shag! She's here for some comfort and support. She's really upset right now. Don't be a prat, be a friend. And a gentleman.

"Of course you can," he said. "I'll sleep on the floor."

"Harry, that's ridiculous. It's your room, and the bed is huge. I think I'll be able to restrain myself from jumping you," she said, trying to make light of the situation through her tears. Well, I've been able to restrain myself so far. This shouldn't be any different. Although, given the incredibly close proximity, it could be considerably more difficult than in the past.

He laid her down and wrapped the comforter around her shivering body. He shut off the light and crawled under the covers next to her. She was still crying, so he put his arm around her, pulling her close.

"Shh," he said, "it's okay. I'm not going anywhere." He rubbed small circles on the back of her hand until she finally fell asleep.

Hermione's last thoughts of the night were of how good it felt to be in Harry's arms. They were protective, reassuring, and she knew that he had been telling the truth.

He wasn't going anywhere.