A Summer to Remember

A Summer To Remember

Disclaimer: I own none of the characters. *cries* They all belong to the amazing JK Rowling. I’m just borrowing them for a while – I’ll give them back in one piece…promise!

A/N: Although this book is set in Harry and the gang’s 7^th Year, I have decided to ignore book 6. It’s not that I didn’t like it, it’s just that this idea has been playing on my mind since before I read the 6^th book (and only now have I got to writing it down, but still…) so there are certain things that happened in the 6^th book do not fit with this story. I hope this doesn’t put you off reading.

Well, enough of me babbling – on with the story….

Hermione looked at the clock and sighed, it read 23.37 and she’d been at this transfiguration essay for the last 2 hours, and she’s only written one side of parchment. Normally, she would have had the essay finished by now, but tonight she was distracted; distracted by a certain dark haired Gryffindor. You see, it was the second week of the summer break and Harry had been forced to return to his Aunt and Uncle’s house, in order to renew his blood protection. But Hermione was worried; she had sent him several owls and although he had replied, his letters tended to be short and clipped, which was so unlike Harry; he normally told her about all the horrible things his aunt and uncle did, or how he couldn’t wait to get out of there. She knew something was bothering him, she could just tell. In her last letter she had actually asked him what was wrong, but she was still awaiting a reply. No doubt he would write and tell her that he was fine and she would then have to wait until she saw him in person before she would get a proper answer, and even then she’d have to badger him for it.

Hermione glanced at the clock again – it now read 23.50. It was Harry’s 17^th birthday in 10 minutes - meaning he would be of age in the wizarding world and then he could finally leave the Dursley’s forever and head to Grimmauld Place, which had been left to him in Sirius’ will. She wished she could join him, but her father, having missed her terribly while she had been at school, had made it perfectly clear that he wanted her at home for the majority of her holidays; she was only going to be able to leave for the last week of the summer. She didn’t like the thought of Harry being alone all summer. Normally it wouldn’t be a problem, but the Weasley’s had gone to visit Charlie in Romania so he’d only really have the company of Remus Lupin, who these days spent half his time at Tonk’s flat.

She marked her page and closed her textbook, conceding that she wasn’t going to get anything more done tonight, well nothing constructive anyway, and made her way to the bathroom to wash her face and brush her teeth. On her way back to her room, she was startled to hear the doorbell ring. She drew her wand from the pocket of her dressing gown and made her way downstairs. Through the glass panel in the door she could see a very tall figure, but she couldn’t make out who it was. When she reached the door she peaked through the peep hole to see who was there. When she saw who it was she flung the door open;

“Harry!” she exclaimed, stuffing her wand back in her pocket, before flinging herself at Harry, engulfing him a massive hug.

“Woah!” Harry was little taken aback at the force of Hermione’s hug, but had to admit it felt nice, so he returned it. “It’s nice to see you too,” he replied, with a cheeky smile. Hermione pulled away, embarrassed that she had behaved in such an obvious way.

“Oh, Harry I’m sorry. It’s just, you’ve not replied to any of my letters and I was really worried.”

“It’s okay ‘Mione, really. It’s nice to know I was missed.” Hermione smiled at this; she had missed him, they spent so much time together at Hogwarts that when they were apart it felt like there was a gaping hole in her life.

“Don’t take this the wrong way Harry, but what are you doing here? And come to think of it, how did you get here?”

“I apparated. I’m of age now, remember?”

“But, you don’t have your license. Oh, Harry – unlicensed apparition is a very serious offence, you could be…”

“’Mione, it’s okay: look.” Harry interrupted, waving a piece of parchment in her face. She took it from him and looked down at it; it was his apparition license.

“Wha-, this is dated today, how…”

“Dumbledore figured that I’d want to be out of my Aunt and Uncle’s house as soon as possible so he pulled some strings down at the Ministry and arranged for me to take my apparition test as soon as the clock struck midnight. Personally, I think he still feels guilty about some of the decisions he made for me in the past, so is doing everything he can to make up for it, but I’m not complaining. Anyway, I passed first time with flying colours and then decided to try out this apparition thing, so here I am.”

“But Harry, you’ve never been here before. How did you imagine where you wanted to be?”

Harry blushed slightly, “I just imagined you and hoped to Merlin that I’d arrive in the right place.”

Hermione was touched by that and smiled shyly, but then she realised how risky that had been and she began to reprimand him “Harry, do you know how dangerous that is – you could have splinched yourself. Or ended up somewhere completely different to where you intended.”

“I know, I know but I’m alright,” he spun around slowly in front of her, “see I’m in one piece, all bits present and in working order.” Hermione raised an eyebrow,

“All bits, Harry?” she said suggestively, waggling her eyebrows at him. Harry smiled,

“You just had to lower the tone didn’t you?!” he retorted.

“I’m sorry,” she gasped out in-between giggles, “I just couldn’t resist! Now, are you going to tell me what you and your bits are doing here?” Harry smirked,

“Well, ‘me and my bits’ as you so eloquently put it, have come to invite you to spend the rest of the summer at Grimmauld Place.”

“Ah.” Hermione paused and looked down at the floor. She took a deep breath before continuing, “I can’t Harry, I’m sorry.” Harry’s face fell at this, but he quickly recovered and hoped that Hermione hadn’t seen how disappointed he was at the thought of spending summer alone. Hermione continued, “My dad wants me to stay here ‘til at least the last week of summer. As much as I would love to keep you company over summer, I can’t.” Harry forced a smile in order to try and hide his disappointment,

“Hey, don’t worry about it. I understand; your family must miss you when you’re away,” he said.

“Yes we do,” came a voice from the stairs, startling both of the teenagers.

“Mum!” cried Hermione. “How long have you been there? Did we wake you?”

“I was awoken by the door bell and the heard you talking to someone so came to see what was going on. Hello Harry.”

“Hi, Mrs Granger,” greeted Harry nervously, he’d only really met Hermione’s parents in passing at the train station when they had left for or retuned from Hogwarts. “I’m sorry for waking you. I just came to see if Hermione could spend the summer with me in London but as it appears she can’t I’ll be on my way.”

“Harry, wait.” Mrs Granger insisted, “Let me go and speak to Hermione’s father about the situation. Hermione, take Harry into the kitchen and make him a nice cup of tea or something.” Hermione grabbed Harry’s sleeve and pulled him through the house to the kitchen.

When they reached the kitchen Hermione told Harry to sit at the table while she sorted his drink. He did as he was told and sat watching her as she busied herself with the task at hand. When she stretched to get something out of a high cupboard, her dressing gown fell open and Harry decided that school robes were far too concealing. Hermione was no longer the bushy haired girl she had been – she was turning into a gorgeous woman. She was wearing pyjamas that consisted of very short pair of shorts and quite a tight vest top. Harry could see every curve of her body and he liked what he saw. He felt his body responding to the vision before him and was suddenly glad he was sat down, to save him any embarrassment. This wasn’t the first time Hermione had caused him to react like this; over the past 2 weeks his dreams had been filled with images of his best friend doing things to him that had been decidedly more than friendly. At first the dreams, as nice as they had been, had deeply affected him; why was he thinking these things about his best friend? But then, 2 nights ago – he had an epiphany; on this night his dream had been different; he and Hermione had been married and they were having a child together. When he woke up from this particular dream everything seemed to click into place; he was falling for Hermione – it had happened so slowly that he hadn’t even noticed it. The only thing he’d had to do then was work out what to do about it. Should he tell her? Would she feel the same? I mean they flirted a little and teased each other, but did it mean anything? That was when he decided to invite Hermione to spend the summer with him; surely spending that much time alone together would allow any feelings between the pair to blossom. However, now it looked like that wasn’t going to happen.

“Harry, Harry…are you listening?” Hermione’s voice broke through his thoughts.

“Huh? Sorry Hermione, I was miles away then.” He noticed she’d fastened her dressing gown – he hoped she hadn’t caught him staring!

“I gathered,” she said, smiling. “I asked if you wanted anything to eat? A biscuit or some cake perhaps?”

“Yeah, some cake would be nice, thanks.” Hermione got some plates out of the cupboard and then cut them both a slice of lemon cake. She brought them to the table and took the seat opposite Harry. She reached across the table slowly and placed her hand on top of his,

“Are you okay Harry?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. Why do you ask?”

“In your letters you seemed a bit distant, and I just wanted to make sure everything was alright,” she replied. Ah, Harry had thought this might come up when they saw each other again. While he was trying to sort out his feelings for Hermione, he’d decided that it might be best to have as little contact with her as possible, in order for him to try and look at his feelings objectively. So when she had written he’d replied with just enough for her to know he was still in the land of the living, so she wouldn’t apparate over, and then just less then enough to get into any deep conversations. What was he going to tell her? As he was floundering for an answer, Hermione’s mother came back downstairs, much to Harry’s relief and Hermione’s annoyance. She entered the kitchen and addressed Hermione,

“Right then, I’ve spoken to your father and, as I anticipated he doesn’t really want you to spend this summer away...”

“Well, I guess that’s it then,” interrupted Hermione, the disappointment evident in her voice.

“However,” she continued, and both Hermione and Harry looked at her expectantly. “I did manage to convince him that it wasn’t really fair for the both of you to be alone over summer so……he has agreed to let Harry stay here, if he wishes.”

“Really?!” gasped Hermione. “Oh that’s wonderful! I mean, that is of course if you want to stay here Harry?” The chance to spend the whole summer with Hermione; Harry didn’t need to be asked twice.

“I’d love to.”

“Well then, that’s that sorted, I’m off to bed.” Mrs Granger said, “And I suggest that once you’ve shown Harry to his room, that you two should call it a night as well.”

“Okay Mum,” agreed Hermione, as she moved to hug her Mother, “Goodnight, and thank you for letting Harry stay.”

“Yeah, thanks Mrs Granger. I really appreciate it.”

“That’s no problem Harry. It’s our pleasure. Sleep well.” And with that she left the two of them to sort themselves out.

“Come on Harry, once we’ve cleared the table I’ll show you your room and you can get settled in.” Harry followed her to the kitchen and removed the plates and cups from the table, as Hermione wiped up the cake crumbs, “If you just pop those in the dishwasher, they’ll get washed after breakfast tomorrow.” Harry did as Hermione had instructed and then Hermione led Harry upstairs to show him to his room.

“Here you go, Harry,” she said, opening the door. Harry stepped in and looked around. The room was quite spacious, containing a double bed, a wardrobe, chest of drawers, a bedside table, a desk and three shelve on one of the walls. “All the furniture is empty, so feel free to use it to store your stuff. Actually, that’s a good point, where is your stuff?”

Harry pulled what looked like a miniature Hogwarts trunk out of his pocket and placed it on the floor. He drew his wand, pointed it at the trunk and muttered,

“Finite Incantatem,” and the trunk returned to its original size. He turned and winked at Hermione, “Isn’t magic great?”

“Oh, I keep forgetting you’re of age now and can perform magic away from school. Speaking of which, I don’t think I’ve said it yet but, Happy Birthday.” She held out her arms inviting him into a hug, which he gladly stepped into. He snaked his arms around her lower back and she raised her arms so they were around his neck. Their embrace lasted for a few minutes, neither one wanting to break contact with the other. In the end it was Harry who released Hermione and stepped away. There was a slight tension between them, which made Harry feel extremely uncomfortable.

“I erm…I think we’d better get some sleep, ‘Mione. I’m beat – it’s been a long day!” She looked a little disappointed, but Harry couldn’t work out if it was because he’d stopped hugging her or whether it was his suggestion of heading to bed.

“Yeah, of course.

“Look., Mione, I’d love to sit up all night with you and catch up on what we’ve been doing since the end of term but I’d probably fall asleep on you, which would be extremely rude. Besides which we have the rest of summer to spend together, I wouldn’t want you to get bored of me too quickly! Hermione smiled,

“Like that’d ever happen,” she muttered to herself.

“Sorry?” asked Harry. Did she just say that?

“Nothing, doesn’t matter,” replied Hermione quickly, realising she’d been heard. She went to the door and opened it, “Anyway, the bathroom is down the hall on the left and my room is the one directly opposite…if you need anything. Good night Harry, sweet dreams.”

Oh, if only she knew how sweet his dreams would be!?

“You too, ‘Mione. Sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite.” Harry turned around and leant against the door and sighed. Little did he know Hermione had done exactly the same thing when she entered her room.

A/N: Well, that’s the end of chapter one! I hope you enjoyed it. Leave a review and let me know what you thought.

Disclaimer: As in chapter 1

A/N: Thanks to Sist3rSpo0ky for beta-ing this (and the previous) chapter. I’d be lost without her! Also thanks for all the reviews, there’s nothing quite like the feeling you get when you discover someone actually thought enough or your story to take the time to comment on it. Please continue to review!

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Harry awoke to the mouth-watering smell of bacon wafting through the house. He rolled over and threw his legs over the edge of the bed; he looked at the clock, it read 10.25. Man, he’d slept a long time! He supposed he should really go and show his face downstairs before Hermione started to worry that he’d died or something.

As he was only wearing his boxers he quickly put on a pair of jeans and headed downstairs. He entered the kitchen to find Hermione, who was already dressed, putting the finishing touches to breakfast.

“Morning, ‘Mione”

“Harry. I was just going to come and wake you; breakfast is nearly ready,” she said without taking her eyes of what she was doing.

“It smells delicious. You didn’t have to do this y’know.”

“I know, but my parents have already left and I wanted to do something special for your first day… Don’t you go expecting it everyday; that’d just b…” Hermione had turned around and the sight of Harry topless had stopped her in her tracks. Luckily the plates she was carrying had stayed in her hands.

<Wow> thought Hermione, <all that Quidditch training has really paid off. Harry looks amazing!>

Hermione knew she was staring but felt powerless to stop herself. She couldn’t help but think how it would feel to run her hands up those well-defined biceps and over those broad shoulders…

“’Mione, are you okay?” Harry’s voice penetrated Hermione’s daydream and she felt a blush rising to her cheeks at being caught staring. She put Harry’s breakfast on the table in front of him and then took the seat opposite.

“Yeh, I’m fine. I…erm…I just remembered something I haven’t done, that’s all.”

They made small talk throughout breakfast; Hermione trying her best not to look at Harry’s chest. Hermione was quite relieved when they’d both finished and Harry excused himself to go and get dressed properly. As she loaded the dishwasher and set it going - she began to wonder what was going on between her and Harry.

She’d missed Harry terribly in the two weeks since they’d finished school; more so than she’d missed Ron. She couldn’t stop thinking about him; she missed his smile, the way he could always cheer her up when she was feeling down and how he’d defend her against Ron’s little digs. She also had nightmares about him dying at the hands of Voldemort; she’d woken up screaming for the first few nights she was home… until she’d received that first letter from him. Her heart had skipped a beat when she’d first seen Hedwig fly into her room, and when she read his short response she was left disappointed that he didn’t seem to want to correspond with her, but she wrote back nonetheless hoping for a better response. She received a short reply and, again felt disheartened. And so it went on until Harry had arrived at her house yesterday. When she had seen him standing at her front door, she couldn’t believe it. He looked so sexy – he’d definitely bulked up in the 2 weeks since she’d last seen him and he’d grown about two inches too. And last night, well gone were the nightmares, to be replaced by something of equal disturbance – Hermione had had an erotic dream about her best friend! She had been awake since about 5 o’clock analysing what all this meant. She had tried to pass it off as her unconscious having a laugh at her expense, but after he’d come down to breakfast shirtless this morning that theory had been thrown out of the window, and now there was no denying it: Hermione Granger was falling for her best friend. The only question now was what she was going to do about it.

Hermione was saved from having to think about that too much when Harry appeared in the living room with a pile of text books and a very sheepish look on his face.

“’Mione?” he asked, pleadingly, “is there any chance you could help me with a bit of my homework.” Hermione’s eyes lit up at the thought,

“Sure Harry, how much have you got left to do?” she enquired. If it was possible Harry looked even more sheepish.

“Erm, well you see, erm, I haven’t actually done any of it. I’ve been rather busy with other things these past two weeks.”

“Harry, this is the summer before NEWT year, you can’t continue as you have done for the past six years, you have to start showing some commitment.”

“I know, ‘Mione, but I haven’t just been lazing around,” Hermione raised her eyebrows questioningly; “I’ve been training, for facing Voldemort. Not magic training, obviously as I would have been underage. No I’ve been doing physical training, y’know getting fit. Running, swimming, weights that kind of thing. I figured it might help when…when the time comes.” The last part of that sentence was said quietly and Hermione could hear the fear and sadness in Harry’s voice.

Hermione, though annoyed that he was neglecting his studies, was glad that he was finally preparing for his showdown with Voldemort. During sixth year, he’d been very apathetic about the whole thing. It was probably something to do with Sirius’ death, but he just hadn’t seemed fazed by the prospect of facing the darkest Wizard in the world, and so hadn’t bothered with any training. Even when he told Ron and herself about the prophecy, it was with detachment; as if he was talking about someone else... He didn’t understand why Ron went a deathly white colour and why she started crying. She was glad he finally seemed to be accepting the fact that this was his destiny and he had to do everything in his power to survive.

“You’re probably right, it will help,” she said, “and I think we should continue the physical work-outs here too. But for now, let’s start with Transfiguration.”

So they spent the rest of the morning battling with transfiguration theories and managed to get their essays completed just before lunch.

“I don’t know about you Harry but I’m getting a little hungry. What do you want to do for lunch?”

“Well, I was actually hoping we could go into London today – I think I need to buy some new clothes, plus I need to go to Gringotts and sign some papers to do with Sirius’ will; stuff that couldn’t be done until I was of age.”

“Sure, I need to nip into Flourish and Blotts anyway; a book I’ve ordered should have come in by now.” Harry rolled his eyes and smiled. Unfortunately for him, Hermione saw him. “Something funny Harry?”

Harry feigned innocence. “No, nothing.” Hermione got up from her chair and began to walk towards Harry,

“I’d hate to think you were laughing at my love of books, Harry. There are dire consequences for anyone who does that,” she mock-threatened.

“Oh yeh? Like what?” Harry challenged, while standing up and backing away slightly towards the sofa.

“Like this!” yelled Hermione launching herself at him and tackling him onto the sofa. Harry, however made good use of his quick reflexes and grabbed onto Hermione as she pushed him, therefore pulling her down with him… They landed on the sofa and Harry took advantage of the fact that Hermione was startled at being pulled over, to start tickling her.

“Harry, stop! That tickles,” she cried. Harry laughed.

“That’s the whole point ‘Mione,”

“Well, lets see how you like it!” Hermione had somehow managed to wrestle one of her hands free and began her own attack on Harry. They tickled and wrestled for a few minutes until they both became breathless. They stopped and their eyes met; and neither of them could look away. A tension suddenly filled the room and both found themselves unable to look away from the other. There faces moved towards one another, slowly, as if they were magnetic opposites; neither could stop nor turn away.

BRRRRRRIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNGGGGGGG!

The sound of the telephone ringing brought the two teenagers back to their senses and Hermione jumped of Harry to answer it.

<Damn!> thought Harry <what the hell was I thinking? If I carry on I’m going to ruin our friendship. I have got to control my emotions>

Hermione returned to the living room after a brief moment.

“Erm, that was Mum. She and Dad are going to be late tonight so they’ve asked if we’ll sort ourselves out with tea.”

There was an awkwardness in her voice that suggested she was uncomfortable and embarrassed about what had just happened. Harry tried to make her feel at ease.

“Shouldn’t be a problem – we can grab something in London if you like?”

The fact that Harry didn’t seem flustered by the events that had occurred moments ago made Hermione relax slightly and the awkwardness between them began to disappear.

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

They apparated to Diagon Alley and made their way towards Flourish & Blotts. Hermione rushed to the desk to see if her order had arrived, leaving Harry to wander aimlessly around the store; he stopped and browsed some books on Quidditch while he waited for her.

“Honestly, what is it with men and sport?” Hermione said reading over his shoulder. In her hands she held a rather large packet – obviously her order had arrived.

“Sport gives us a chance to show our boyish agility, in the hopes of turning on the girl we like.” He replied with a smirk. Hermione blushed slightly.

“Oh er well.”

<Damn, she’s cute when she’s flustered> thought Harry. He placed the book back on the shelf and grabbed her by the hand and led her out of the shop,

“C’mon, we’d better to get to Gringotts, I want to get this over with as quickly as possible.” Hermione squeezed his hand,

“Are you going to be okay?” she asked concerned,

“Probably not, but as long as you’re there I’m sure I’ll manage to get through it.”

Hermione smiled and began to walk faster,

“Well come on then, lets get this over with.”

When they arrived at Gringotts they were met by Griphook.

“It is good to see you again Mister Potter, please come with me.” Harry and Hermione followed Griphook but neither of them said anything. When the silence was broken it was Griphook who spoke again, “I’m sorry Miss, but you will have to wait here, this is business that only concerns Mister Potter.”

Hermione looked at Harry to ascertain if he was going to be okay.

“Can she not come with us, Griphook. I have no problem with it, in fact I want her there.”

“If Mister Potter is sure, then I think we can make an exception,” Griphook conceded as he led them into his office and gestured for them to take a seat in front of a large oak desk. Griphook walked round to the opposite side and took his seat there. “Now then, as I’m sure you’re aware Mister Potter, Mister Black had a considerable fortune as well as a house in London. Now the deeds to the property, ‘Grimmauld Place,’ are to be transferred to you, as is 50% of his fortune, which would be a total of 500,000 galleons. The other 50% is to be split 3 ways, 200,000 galleons to a Mister Remus Lupin, 200,000 galleons to a Miss Nymphadora Tonks, 50,000 galleons to a Mr Ronald Billius Weasley and 50,000 galleons to Miss Hermione Jane Granger. Once you have signed to accept the deeds to the property and your share of the money, acceptance slips will be sent to the other four beneficiaries for them to sign and return. When these have been returned to us, and only then will the transactions be completed and the money transferred. Miss Granger can of course have her transaction completed today. There are also a few of Mister Blacks personal items in storage in his vault that are to be give over to yourself to do with however you see fit. Do you have any questions?”

Harry was looking blankly at the goblin and Hermione could tell he was having trouble taking everything in, so she addressed Griphook on his behalf.

“Not at the moment thank you, but would it be possible to trouble you for a glass of water please?”

“Of course Miss Granger I shall go and get that for you.”

As soon as Griphook had left Hermione rose from her seat walked over to Harry and placed her hand on his shoulders. He wrapped his arms around her midriff, buried his face in her stomach and sobbed. Hermione’s heart ached; she hated it when Harry was in pain. She moved her hand to his hair and began stroking it in a soothing motion, just as her mother had done for her when she was little. During this Griphook returned with some water for the teenagers: he placed it on the desk and signalled to Hermione that he would be outside when they were ready to continue. Eventually Harry’s sobs died down and he looked up at Hermione with tears still brimming in his eyes,

“Sorry, ‘Mione,” he said, looking ashamed that he’d lost control of his emotions.

“It’s okay Harry.”

“It’s not. Look, I’ve left a wet patch on your shirt.”

“Well that’s nothing a little drying spell won’t solve, don’t worry. Are you ready to carry on?”

“Yeh, I think so. It’s only signing the paperwork and getting the personal items then we can go.”

“Ok, I’ll go and get Griphook.”

Hermione returned with Griphook and they set about signing all the required papers; Harry didn’t utter one word the throughout the entire time. Once both Hermione’s and Harry’s transactions were completed, Griphook summoned another goblin to bring the box of Sirius’ belongings. It was a rather large ornate chestnut box, about the size of a jewellery box and the letters SB were engraved into the lid. Instead of putting Harry through the trauma of having to open it in public, Hermione quickly took the box from the goblin and shrank it down to fit in her pocket.

“I think Harry would prefer to open this at home,” she explained. Harry simply smiled. “And if that’s all I think we would like to leave now,”

“Of course, Miss Granger.”

Harry and Hermione walked back down Diagon Alley in silence. When they reached The Leaky Cauldron, Hermione spoke softly.

“I think we should go home Harry, we can come back to London later in the week to do the rest of your shopping.”

They apparated back to the house and Hermione removed the box from her pocket and placed it on the kitchen table; she then took out her wand and returned it to its original size.

“I’ll leave you to it…I’ll be in my room,” said Hermione softly, as she moved passed him to leave the room. But Harry grabbed her hand,

“No. Stay…please,” he whispered. Hermione nodded her agreement and sat at the table. Harry joined her and slowly opened the box. Inside there were 2 gold rings, which Harry assumed to be his parents wedding bands, letters for himself, Hermione, Remus, and Tonks, the key to Sirius’ flying motorcycle, and several photos; one of his parents on their wedding day, one of them that looked like it had been taken just after Harry had been born – his Mum and Dad were smiling at each other and at their son; they looked like the perfect family. There were also photographs of Sirius holding his newborn Godson. Harry felt the tears begin to form in his eyes and he put the photos back in the box.

“I think I’m going to go and lie down,” he said.

“Okay, I’ll order in some take-away for us; I don’t really feel like cooking. Is Chinese alright?”

“Yeh, that’s fine. Feel free to open your letter from Sirius. I’m leaving mine at least until tomorrow.”

“Nah, it’s okay Harry; I’ll wait,”

Hermione ordered in the food and then put all of Sirius’s belongings back in the box and just tidies up the kitchen a little until the food arrived. When the delivery man had been paid, she took the food and Sirius’ box up to Harry’s room. Harry was lay face down on his bed, but looked up as she entered. Hermione could see his cheeks were tearstained; he’d been crying.

She placed the box on his desk and set about dishing up the food. They ate in silence; Harry not really feeling like talking, and Hermione been apprehensive about what to say. Just as they finished eating, they heard Hermione’s parents arrive home. Hermione excused herself from Harry’s room and went downstairs to meet them. She explained in hushed tones that she didn’t think she and Harry would be socialising with them this evening and she briefly described the events of the day. Her parents understood and told her to get back to Harry. When she returned, Harry had taken the picture of Sirius and himself at 14, and was sat on the edge of the bed, hunched over, his shoulders quivering with the strength of his sobs. Hermione shut the door behind her and went straight to Harry and wrapped her arms around him. She manoeuvred them so they were lying on his bed and she just held him while he cried. Eventually his sobs tapered off and his breathing became very even and light; he was asleep. Hermione, who could not bear to tear herself away from Harry at all, followed soon after and they spent the entire night wrapped in each others embrace.

Disclaimer: I own none of the characters. *cries* They all belong to the amazing JK Rowling. I'm just borrowing them for a while - I'll give them back in one piece…promise!

A/N: I am soooo sorry that this story has been neglected. I have had a lot of stuff going on, but that's not really any excuse.

Hopefully I am back in the swing of things now, but we will see. I apologise if it doesn't go to plan.

Anyway, on the story…

Hermione stirred slowly and was in a very confused state; her pillow seemed to be moving. Opening her eyes she was shocked to find her head resting on Harry's chest and Harry's arms snaked around her waist.

<What the-?> but the events of the previous day came flooding back. Harry had been so upset by everything that had happened and they had both been so emotionally drained that when they'd laid down together they both fallen asleep almost instantaneously. Hermione turned her head and looked at the clock, it was 9.30. They'd slept for nearly 12 hours and Hermione was glad - she'd never felt so refreshed.

She lifter her eyes to Harry and sighed; he looked so peaceful. She wished she could take all his problems and worries away. She tentatively reached out and ran her hand through his hair, being careful not to wake him. She did this a couple of times before stopping and moving to get out of the bed.

“Mmmm, don't stop,” Harry said, sleepily. Hermione smiled,

“Have to, it's time to get up,” she replied.

“No,” said Harry, and pulled her closer to him, “stay here, it's nice.”

“That it is, but we can't stay in bed all day Harry. I, for one, need breakfast. And I haven't given you your birthday present yet.”

“Consider staying here, my birthday present,” smirked Harry.

“Nope,” said Hermione as she wriggled fee of Harry's grasp. “Your present is in my room - I'll be back in a minute.”

Hermione made the short walk from the guest room to her own and found a piece of paper stuck to the door.

H,

Came to wake you before we left but your bed hadn't been slept in. I think I can guess where you were - I think we need to talk when I get in.

Mum

P.S. I've not told your Dad.

Hermione groaned; when she had slipped into bed with Harry last night she had completely forgotten about her parents and their reactions. At least her Mum hadn't told her Dad. He'd have freaked out no matter how innocent the entire thing was. Taking the note off the door she slipped into her room to retrieve Harry's gift from the wardrobe.

When she arrived back in the guest bedroom Harry was sat up in bed, looking only slightly more awake than he had when she'd left him. He had, however, managed to locate his glasses and put them on.

Hermione held out the gift.

“Happy Birthday. Sorry I forgot to give it to you yesterday,” she said. Harry smiled, and took the present from her.

“S'ok `Mione. It's understandable; yesterday was a big day.”

“Well, come on! Open it - I want to see what you think”

Harry ripped into the wrapping paper like a five year old on Christmas morning. When he saw Hermione's gift his eyes widened.

“Hermione….this is too much.” Inside the package was a hand carved chestnut and ivory wizard chess set and two tickets to the upcoming Chudley Canons match.

“It's fine Harry, honestly”

“But Hermione…”

“But nothing. And if you mention the cost again I shall be very offended.”

“Now, that's unfair: that's emotional blackmail.”

“Don't you just love it?” smirked Hermione and stuck her tongue out at Harry. Harry lunged at Hermione; tickling her, pulling her towards him.

“Stop Harry!” she begged between giggles, “please.” When he did so she collapsed on top of him, breathing rapidly. He raised his hand and brushed it over her cheek,

“Hermione…” whispered Harry. He moved his head slightly until their faces were centimetres apart, exactly as they had been the previous day. The two teenagers seemed to stay that way for ever, until finally Harry closed that gap and their lips touched.

The kiss was phenomenal. Harry had never felt anything like it in his life. He wanted to stay like this forever. Soon though, the need for air was unavoidable and Harry was forced to pull away and take a deep breath. He looked shyly at Hermione and whispered,

“Hey. That was…wow!” Hermione sat up and moved off Harry

“Yeh, it was, but what exactly was `that'? Harry sat up and opened his mouth to reply, but was cut off by Hermione. “I mean I know what it was - it was a kiss, but what I mean is what does it mean? Was it a spur of the moment thing or had you being thinking about it for a while? Was it a sexual thing or an emotional thing? Is this a relationship now?”

Harry couldn't help but smile at Hermione…everything had to be analysed.

“Hermione, this is whatever you and I decide it to be. I can tell you that it wasn't a spur of the moment thing; I have been thinking about this for ages. I think I'm falling for you.” Harry was surprised at the ease with which the words came. He'd been thinking about this moment for months and in every scenario he'd thought of he'd struggled with what to say. The fact that he was being so open with her about this confirmed to him that progressing their relationship was the right thing to do.

“Okay…so you want me to be your girlfriend?”

“What I want, is to know how you feel about me.”

“Ah, well that's the million dollar question isn't it? Hermione joked. “I've been really worried about you since the end of term and I missed you far more than I missed Ron. I hadn't really given it much thought until your first night here when I finally came to the conclusion that there was probably more to my feelings for you than friendship.” (Hermione blushed during that sentence and Harry made a mental note to ask her what exactly it was that had prompted this realisation) “But even though I had confronted my feelings for you I didn't dare dream that you would ever return them. I mean, you're Harry Potter - handsome hero, amazing sportsman and all-round popular guy and me, well, I'm just plain Hermione Jane, the bookworm,” she continued, looking down.

Harry put his hand under her chin and lifted her head so he could look into her eyes.

“Don't you ever say that Hermione. You are beautiful, sexy, and gorgeous and your love of books has pulled me through a few close shaves in my time. There is nothing plain about you.”

His words had lifted Hermione's spirits a little and she smiled it him,

“You've still not answered my question Harry?” Harry looked at her, obviously confused, so Hermione decided to clarify, “you want me to be your girlfriend?”

Harry's smile widened, “Of course I do. But do you want to be my girlfriend?”

Hermione leaned into Harry and whispered in his ear, “There is nothing I would like more,” before kissing him and pulling him down on top of her.

--------------------------------

After Harry and Hermione had managed to untangle themselves from each other, gotten dressed and had breakfast they decided that it was time to open the letters that Sirius had left for them. Hermione brought it down from Harry's room and sat on the kitchen table.

“You should go first, Hermione,” said Harry, quietly. Hermione sensed that Harry was just stalling; that he was putting off opening his letter to avoid facing whatever emotions it may dredge up, but she humoured him nonetheless and carefully picked up the envelope and took the parchment out.

Hermione,

If you're reading this then the worst has happened. And this is my chance to say to you things that I have put off saying for far too long.

First of all, I want to say thank you for when you helped me escape from the death eaters. I know I've said it before but I can never say it enough. You don't know what a hellish place Azkaban is and hopefully you never will. You helped me have the chance to get to know my Godson and for that you will have my eternal gratitude.

Now, speaking of Harry, I want to ask you a favour. Take care of him, please. I know I probably don't have to ask, but I need to make sure. You're his best friend, he trusts you more than anyone in the world; you are the one person he will confide in. And I know you will give him great advice and guide him in the right way - they don't call you the brightest witch of your age for nothing.

One last thing Hermione: Life is too short. Trust me, I know. Don't let fear stop you from doing the things that you want or need to do. Especially when it comes to matters of the heart; both yours and Harry's. You two are meant for each other: you might not be able to see it yet, but you will one day.

Take care

Sirius.

Hermione felt the tear run down her cheek before she had chance to stop it. Harry was looking at her, as he had been the entire time she had been reading Sirius' words, concern evident in his eyes and reached out his hand to wipe the tear away. Hermione gave him a shy smile, and whispered,

“Your turn,” indicating the letter on the table. Harry looked at the letter and for a few seconds Hermione wondered if he'd changed his mind and decided not to open it after all, but after taking a deep breath for resolve, he picked it up opened it.

Harry,

If this letter has found its way into your possession then I guess I'm gone. I hope it was a good death; something courageous and not something daft like being hit with a bludger or falling off my broom.

I want to say sorry, Harry. I'm sorry I wasn't there for you when you were growing up, I'm sorry you had to live with your horrible relatives, I'm sorry that I'm gone now. But I know that you'll cope without me. I don't want you to be upset - I've tied up all the loose ends in my life. The main one was finding you, having you know I was innocent, and getting to know you. I have done everything that I ever wanted to do.

You are a fine young lad - I'm so proud of you and your parents would be too. To experience everything that you have and to not have given up is amazing - not many people would have been able to do the same.

I have a last request for you Harry: live. Defeat that b*****d Voldemort and live a full and happy life. Find a wife, (I would recommend a certain brown-eyed with a penchant for books - she loves you Harry she just doesn't know it yet. And I think you love her too), have some kids (name one of them Sirius! Only joking - I wouldn't wish that on anyone) get a job you love and live everyday to the fullest, because lets face it: you deserve it.

I'm sorry I'm going to miss out on the rest of your life; I reckon it would have been a fun ride.

Take care

Sirius

Harry put the letter back on the table and turned to look at Hermione. She had been watching him intently while he was reading.

“You okay?” she asked? Harry sighed,

“Surprisingly enough yeh. I mean obviously I'm upset but I- I don't know, I just don't feel the need to cry or scream or shout. To be honest I don't really feel like doing anything right now.”

“That's understandable Harry, these past few days have been a rollercoaster - your body will need time to catch up. Let's just relax today - no training, no homework, nothing.”

“No homework? Who are you and what have you done with the real Hermione Granger?”

“Oh ha ha, very funny!” she said sarcastically

“Sorry, couldn't resist that one. So if we're not doing any homework - what are we going to do?”

They discussed their options as they made their way into the living room, “I don't know we could just laze around - watch daytime TV, watch a film, sit and chat, read - whatever you want?”

“I think watching a film would be good - what do you have? Nothing too soppy though.”

“What about `Lord of the Rings'? I love that film.”

“I've not seen it, but I've heard it's quiet good.”

“Oh Harry it's brilliant and we've got the extended edition DVD. It's got lots of extra bits in,” Hermione said excitedly as she hunted for the DVD and put it in the player.

Harry took a seat on the couch and waited for Hermione to sit with him. She sat next to him and he put his arm around her shoulder and pulled her closer.

“This okay?” he questioned.

“Of course it is; we're together now. But, I think we should keep it toned down in front of my parents. Dad sometimes still thinks I'm a little girl and Mum wants to have a `chat' with me about the fact that my bed wasn't slept in last night.” Harry groaned but Hermione continued, “Oh I'm sure it's nothing to worry about but she might not believe it's as innocent as it actually was if she knew we were dating now.”

“I think I can see where you are coming from there…I don't particularly want to have a run in with your father about my intentions towards you.

“Oh, I don't know, I'd find that quite amusing.

“Yeh, I bet you would. Now sssh, the film's starting.”

A/N: I hope that the fact that Harry and Hermione are now together goes some way to making up for the fact that this chapter took mega-long. I didn't plan on them getting together this early, but don't worry there is still a lot of action to come. Promise.

Authors note:

Just a quick note to let you know the new chapter will be up after the weekend – I’ve got to go away and won’t have access to a computer. But should be up on Monday definitely.

harry n hermione

A/N: Hi guys. Firstly, thanks for all the reviews they really mean a lot. Please keep them coming. Secondly, this chapter is unbeta’d, which I apologise for and I hope there aren’t too many errors. I don’t have a beta at the moment – if anyone would like to volunteer, please let me know.

Now, on with the story…

The Talk

Harry and Hermione were still sat on the couch watching Lord of the Rings and Harry was bored. It wasn’t that he disliked the film; he just thought it was long. Hermione on the other hand was totally engrossed. Harry had tried several attempts to gain Hermione’s attention and get her to take a break from the film. So in the end he began kissing her neck and nibbling on her earlobe.

“Harry!” she exclaimed. “I’m trying to watch this.”

“I’m sorry, ‘Mione, but I’m bored. This film seems to be going on forever.”

“Do you not like it?”

“No, I do. It’s just been on for aaaggggeeees!”

“I think that’s a slight exaggeration Harry, but we can take a break if you want. Maybe we shouldn’t have started you with the extended version,” she chuckled

“No, maybe not.”

“So, fancy some lunch?”

“Actually, no. I was thinking I might go for a run. You can keep me company if you like?”

“Yeh, okay. I’ll just go change.” Hermione stepped out into the hall way just as the front door opened and her mother walked in. “Mum? What are you doing here?”

“I had a few cancelled appointments so though I’d take an extended lunch and come and have a chat with you.”

Hermione rolled her eyes; she knew exactly what was coming from the way her mother had emphasised the word ‘chat’.

“Actually Mum, Harry and I were just about to go for a run.”

“That’s nice dear, but I really think we should have this chat now, while your father isn’t here,” replied her mother sternly. Hermione knew that tone – it meant she would be having this talk now whether she liked it or not and she had 2 choices; either she stayed here with her mother or her mother would come running with them and talk to both her and Harry at the same time, which wasn’t something Hermione wanted at all.

“Okay, we’ll give running a miss”

“Well maybe Harry should still go sweetie. Gives us a bit of space then doesn’t it?” suggested Mrs Granger. Hermione rolled her eyes as she went to tell Harry the news. “I saw that young lady!” her mother scolded playfully.

Hermione returned to the living room and found Harry sprawled on the sofa.

“Hey, did I just hear your mum?”

“Yeh, she’s nipped home for an extended lunch break. She wants to have ‘the talk’ with me, so I can’t go running.”

“That’s okay. We can go later.”

“Actually, Mum thinks it would be a good idea if you went running without me in order to, and I quote, ‘give us some space.’”

“Ah, I see,” replied Harry, realisation dawning. “What if I get lost? I don’t exactly know this area that well.”

“I’ve thought about that…there’s a running track just down the street. You could run there and then there’s not much chance of you getting lost. Just turn left out of here and carry on down the street and it’s across the main road.”

“Okay then. I’ll see you in a bit,” he said, leaning down to kiss her on the cheek. “Good luck with your mum,” he whispered, before leaving the room.

Hermione heard her Mum and Harry having a brief conversation as Harry passed her in the hall, and once the Harry had closed the door behind him her Mum came to join her in the living room.

Her Mum took a seat on one of the lounge chairs, but Hermione stayed on her feet, walking up and down the room.

“Hermione, please stop pacing and sit down.” Hermione did as her mother bade her and took a seat on the couch. They both sat in silence for a few minutes; each trying to work out how to broach the subject. In the end it was Hermione’s mother who spoke first,

“So…do you want to explain to me why your bed hadn’t been slept in this morning?”

Hermione took a deep breath, preparing to confess to her mother, “I was in Harry’s room. We’d had a pretty emotionally draining day in London, as I told you last night and I went into Harry’s room to comfort him and we fell asleep. Nothing happened - it was all completely innocent.”

“There’s no need to be all defensive Hermione…I’m not angry.”

“You’re not?

“No, I just want to make sure that you’re being responsible and safe.”

“Mum, Harry and I aren’t having sex.”

“Not yet, no”

“What do you mean, not yet?”

“Come on Hermione, I wasn’t born yesterday. I know you feel something for Harry and I think he feels something similar for you too.”

Hermione was in shock…how did her mother know this? Had she been that transparent? How many other people had noticed?

“I take it by your silence that there is something in what I’ve just said?” her mother questioned.

“I…err…I guess you’re going to find out sooner or later…Harry and I have decided to pursue a more romantic angle to our relationship.”

“So you’re courting?”

“Mum! That expression is so dated!”

“Sorry. So you’re dating?”

“Yes.”

“Since when?”

“About 5 hours ago.”

“Okay, so it’s all new?”

“Very, and to be honest, I didn’t really want to tell you until we’d had time to get used to the idea for ourselves. Plus, I’m not sure how Dad would be about the whole thing, especially now Harry is staying here.”

“I’m sure he’ll be fine about it,” assured her mother, but Hermione looked less than convinced. “But, I suppose it can be our little secret for the time being,” her mother conceded.

Hermione smiled, “Thanks Mum!”

“Right then, I want to know all the details. Who said what to whom etcetera, etcetera? You can fill me in while we make some lunch. That man of yours will be hungry when he gets back from his run.”

Hermione smiled at thought of Harry being ‘her man,’ and followed her mother into the kitchen. As they prepared the tomato and basil pasta bake and salad, Hermione dutifully answered her mothers questions about how long she had had feelings for Harry, and what had led to them taking the next step in their relationship. However she drew the line at answering “So, is he a good kisser?”

Soon, lunch was ready but there was no sign of Harry.

“Do you think he’ll mind if we start without him?” asked Hermione’s Mum.

“Not at all. He’d hate to think we were going hungry on his account”

As the two ate the delicious meal, conversation again returned to Hermione and Harry’s relationship, particularly the physical side.

“All I’m saying, Hermione is that you need to think about how you are going to handle it.” Hermione could feel her face getting redder and redder as her mother continued.

“Mum. For the last time we’re not having sex so it’s not an issue,” Hermione replied trying to end this embarrassing conversation as soon as possible

“But it is, Hermione. Contraception might not seem like an issue now but if you don’t plan then who knows what’ll happen. You and Harry might not be having sex now, but you might decide next week or next month that you are ready. Surely you would prefer to be prepared, rather than have to put it off because of a lack of planning. Just think about it okay. It can’t hurt to do a bit of research can it?”

Hermione had to concede that her mum was right and that she really should look into it. And it was a chance to learn about and research a new subject, something that appealed to Hermione greatly.

“Okay, I’ll look into it. Can we change the subject now please?”

“Of course we can dear,” said her mother, smiling a little at her daughter’s embarrassment. “You’ll never guess who was in the surgery this morning…”

As luck would have it, it was a good idea to change the subject at that point because just after Harry returned from his run. Hermione heard the front door open and got up to greet him. It was obvious that he had done a lot of running; he was out of breath, there was sweat running down his very red face and on his t-shirt and he looked very tired. Hermione thought he looked quite sexy and made a mental note to do that research into contraception sooner rather than later.

“Hey you,” she smiled, “Good run?”

“Hi. Yeah it was alright. Good chat with your Mum?” Harry moved in to hug Hermione, but she politely pushed him away.

“No. Shower first, hug later. And, the chat was okay if a little embarrassing, thanks for asking. I told Mum about us. I know I said we should wait, but she suspected and I couldn’t lie to her.”

“What did she say?” Harry asked nervously.

“She was okay about it. She’s agreed not to tell Dad for the time being and she did suggest that we do try to sleep in separate rooms though.”

“Awww do we have to? Last night was the best night’s sleep I’ve had in months”

“I know; me too. But I did say we’d try.”

“We could still share a room, and claim we tried and failed?” suggested Harry, hopefully.

Hermione laughed. “We’ll see. Now go for your shower. There’s some pasta bake in the oven for you when you’re done. Mum and I have had ours. We would’ve waited, but we didn’t know how long you’d be and I didn’t think you’d mind.

“I don’t.” he said as he walked up the stairs.

“Oh, Harry!” shouted Hermione, realising she’d forgotten to ask him something. He looked over the banister rail on the landing,

“Yeh?”

“Do you think we could go back to London tomorrow? There are a couple of books I really want to get. I wanna do some research.”

“Yeh that sounds good. I could do with stocking up on owl treats for Hedwig anyway. Can I ask what you’re researching?”

“Oh, nothing important,” said Hermione, trying not to give anything away.

Harry looked at Hermione, the slight smirk on her face and the rising blush on her face and made a mental note to accompany Hermione to Flourish & Blotts and keep an eye on the books she looked at. She was up to something (something that involved him maybe?) and he wanted to know what.