Leave Your Fears Behind

The Awakening

A/N: All of the characters you recognize belong to the wonderful mind of our beloved (well, most of the time *wink wink*) author, JK Rowling. If they were mine, these two characters we love so much would be together. Of well, that's what he have fanfiction for!

Hope you like it. It will be from both Hermione's and Harry's points of view. Reviews are helpful and appreciated. Let me know what you think of it. We all have different styles of writing and different ideas. Let's respect that and each other. Well, enough said, happy reading!

Hermione walked into the flat she shared with Harry and Ron and frowned at the mess in the living room.

Bloody hell! Honestly, she thought exasperated; I was only gone for five days.

She took off her jacket and hung it in the closet by the front door, sighing deeply as she did so. She figured she had the flat to herself, since it was silent and that was never the case if both of her best friends were there. She took out her wand and went room-by-room cleaning and straightening as she did so. Once satisfied that the flat was back to normal, she decided to take a much-needed shower. The drive back from the conference she had been attending had been a long one and she was tired. After a luxurious shower, she lay down on her comfortable bed and sighed. She was wearing a matching tank top and bikini panties set. She let her mind wonder as her body began to relax.

She was working as a healer in St. Mungo's and her duties grew more and more every day. She was one of the youngest, but also, one of the brightest. The position she held now was impressive and she was making very good money as the head of her department. The drawback was that she also spent a lot of time there. While Harry and Ron had plenty of time for a social life, she had none, and her fun evenings were far and few in between. If it were not for the girls only night she had with her female friends every week, she would never leave the house once she got there. At twenty-five, that was rather pitiful.

Harry and Ron were both playing Quiditch for the same team and were doing really well. The amount of fan mail that they got was unbelievable and they had a couple of baskets on the back were the owls dropped their mail daily. Harry was still single and loving it. The Daily Prophet had a picture of him with a new woman at least once a week. Ron only had eyes for Luna and was even engaged to her. Luna had taken over her father's business and it was booming. Ginny had decided to take a job at the Ministry of Magic and she had recently started dating Neville. It had taken him years to finally ask her out, and to everyone's surprise, she had said yes. They had been dating for close to six months now and they both seemed very happy. He was working as the Herbology teacher at Hogwarts since their old teacher had retired.

As for herself, she rarely went on dates. Not that she didn't have any suitors or plenty of invites, but she was so busy that she did not waste her time or theirs. Since leaving Hogwarts and finishing her training to be a healer, she had learned to finally tame her bushy hair into soft, chestnut colored curls that reached down her back. She had also started wearing make-up, not a whole lot, but she had learned to highlight her features thanks to Ginny. She kept a rigorous exercise routine and it showed. She was toned and in the best shape of her life.

After the war, things had taken a while to go back to normal, but once the dust had settled, they had decided to live life to the fullest and be thankful for what they had. Her bond with Harry and Ron was stronger than ever. The war had not been easy on any of them, and it was a true miracle that they had survived. They all had plenty of scars, both physical and emotional, to prove it. Thankfully, the years had lessened the nightmares and they had been able to remain sane through it all.

Hermione was still the smart one, Harry was still the brave one, and Ron was still the funny one. They were known as the legendary trio that had finally defeated the Dark Lord and everywhere they went, they still attracted attention. Professor McGonagall, who was now the Headmistress at Hogwarts, had erected a special garden in the school were a statue of the three of them and Professor Dumbledore now stood proudly in the middle. Neville had helped with the design and kept it in shape.

She smiled as she snuggled more deeply into her pillows and hugged a stuffed bunny to her chest. Harry had given it to her a while back and it was enchanted to wake him up if she was having a nightmare. He would run into her room every time and cradle her until she went back to sleep peacefully, sometimes even staying the whole night with her. She loved him dearly for it. Sleep finally over took her and she drifted off with a slight smile on her face.

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Harry walked into the flat and smiled knowingly when he saw how clean and organized it was. His Hermione was back! He dropped his jacket on the sofa, but then thought better of it and placed it in the closet next to hers. She would have his arse if he left it there after she had cleaned up the rest of his and Ron's mess.

He went looking for her from room to room on the lower half of the flat before taking the stairs two at a time to the second floor. He walked slowly down the hall to her door and knocked softly on it. When there was no answer, he turned the knob and pushed the door open, calling out her name quietly. He and Ron had learned not to make any loud or unexpected noises around her, since it still had the power to upset her. He saw that she was laying on her bed, fast asleep. He walked over to the side of the bed and sucked in his breath as he looked down at her. She looked beautiful and peaceful. Harry was more than glad to see that, not to mention her gorgeous body.

Hermione had ended up having the worst of the nightmares, since she had witness more than Ron had. Ron had been hit with a spell that left him unconscious right before his confrontation with the Dark Lord, and he had not seen it happen.

But Hermione had and it had upset her a great deal. She had been at his side every step of the way and had been tortured almost as bad as he had. Had it not been for their combined power, he didn't think they would have made it out alive. His love and respect for her had grown to unbelievable heights since then. Yet, and unfortunately for him, she had no idea that he felt that way.

She was laying on her side, hugging the bunny he had given her against her chest. Her curls covered the pillow and his fingers itched to run through them. He didn't miss and opportunity to caress them. He loved their scent and soft texture. He swallowed hard when he noticed what she was wearing. Harry had seen her plenty of times in the tiny bikinis she seemed to favor, but this was different, more intimate somehow. The top had ridden up exposing her belly ring and the tattoo on her lower back. He smiled as the memory of that time came flooding back to him.

At one of their more memorable post-war celebrations, she had gotten extremely drunk, and throwing caution to the wind, she had gone into muggle London and had both the piercing and the tattoo done on the same night. She had decided to tattoo a heart with tribal designs around it, as if protecting it. She explained that the heart represented her and the tribal designs represented both him and Ron. They had been touched by her decision to do this and he had to admit it looked very sexy on her. Her smooth legs were firm and tanned, and he could not help but notice once more how her arse filled her knickers quite nicely.

He sat on the bed softly and leaned one hand on the other side of her. With his free hand, he started running his fingers softly over her arm and the top of her back. She stirred a bit, but kept on sleeping. He finally gave in and ran his fingers slowly through her curls making her smile a bit.

“Are you awake, Mione?” he whispered as he continued to caress her back in small circles. He ran his fingers over her tattoo, feeling the slightly raised skin there.

“Mmmm,” she mumbled back and he smiled.

He leaned down and dropped a quick kiss on her cheek. “Do you want me to leave?”

“No,” she mumbled again still keeping her eyes closed.

He continued to caress her, feeling like a cad for taking advantage of the situation, but unable to stop. It was not everyday that he had the opportunity to do this, even when their relationship was on a different level. While she loved Ron dearly, their physical contact was kept to a minimum because of his relationship with Luna. With him, however, she was more open and spontaneous. She was always hugging him and she loved to sit on his lap. When they watched the telly together, he would lay his head on her lap and she would play with his hair absently for hours. If she was excited, or for special occasions like his birthday or Christmas, she would give him a peck on the lips and he would die a little inside. But he kept himself in check all the time since he didn't trust himself around her.

“That feels good,” she whispered still without opening her eyes.

A soft smile adorned her lips and it was all he could do not to lean in and kiss her senseless as he had been wanting to do for ages. He was going mad with wanting her, but at the same time, he was afraid of her rejection.

His friends knew how he felt, since he had told them while she was away in her conference. They had not been surprised to hear his confession. Apparently, he had not been as careful as he had thought. From her he hid it behind the many women he dated and pretended to be the lover boy the media loved to follow around town. She always got on his case about dating so many different girls, and tried to talk some sense into him, but it was no use. If she only knew that she was the only girl he wanted.

She finally opened her eyes, blinking the sleep out of them and her smile grew bigger when she finally focused her beautiful chocolate brown eyes on him. He could have drowned in their depths.

“Hi, handsome. Did you miss me?” she asked coquettishly turning so that she was laying on her back. Her full breasts pushed against the thin fabric of her top and her nipples were starting to harden. Harry tried not to gulp as he brought his hand from her back and played softly with the small hoop in her belly.

“You know I did, Mione. And I'm glad you're back safe and sound.”

Unable to control himself, he leaned down, pressed his lips against hers, and stayed like that for a few seconds more than was normal for them. He came back up and noticed the surprise in her eyes.

“Sorry,” he said immediately. He removed his hand from her belly and tried to get up, but she grabbed his hand quickly and kept him in place.

“It's okay, Harry. I have kissed you plenty of times before and you let me. Don't worry about it, okay?”

He nodded and smiled. “Did you eat?”

“No, and now that you ask, I'm starved,” she told him.

“Want to go with me for a bite? Ron's staying at Luna's tonight.”

“Where do you want to go?” she asked trying to distract her mind from the fingers that were still playing with her belly ring. She was suddenly more than awake.

“Somewhere nice. We haven't been out in a while and I feel like dressing up a bit.”

“Mmm, I see.”

“Unless you're tired of course, and then we can just order in.”

“I took a long nap, so I feel fine. We can go wherever you want.”

“Great!” He smiled at her and ran his fingers softly from her cheek to the base of her neck. “I'm going to go and take a shower and we'll meet downstairs in half an hour.”

He got up and left the room, closing the door softly behind him. Hermione let out a breath she didn't know she had been holding and sighed. What had just happened? she wondered wildly. Harry had never kissed her like that before. While it had just been a soft touch of his lips against hers, he had lingered longer than was necessary. And what was all the touching and caressing about? He never did any of those things. It was always her and it worked out just fine that way. But if he was going to pick up that habit, they were going to be in a lot of trouble.

She had been awake for a while, letting him touch her softly before finally acknowledging his presence. It had felt so good and it had been so long since the last time she had been caressed. She was not completely immune to his charms and his eyes were almost hypnotic in nature. It was not the first time they had been close, they even slept in the same bed from time to time, for Merlin's sake!

She took a deep breath and got up. Walking into her huge closet, she tried to decide what to wear. If Harry wanted to dress up, she would have to as well. She looked around for a bit, finally running across a black dress she had bought a while back on a whim but had not had a chance to wear. It was skin tight and short, exposing plenty of her back and legs. Since Harry seemed to be so amorous, she would give him something to sweat about. She picked up her favorite strappy high heals and a small evening bag.

She was dress and ready to go just in time. She was wearing very sexy underwear and she applied her favorite French perfume to different pulse points in her body. Harry loved that particular brand on her and she decided she was in the mood to torment him a bit. She pulled her curls up, letting a few loose tendrils cascade down her back. Her make-up was simple, yet she looked striking. The media was used to seeing Harry with beautiful women on his arms and she would be damned if she did not look as good or better for him.

Once she was ready, she stood in front of her full-length mirror and ran her eyes critically over herself. I'd do me, she thought smiling merrily. She did not want to dwell on the fact that she had gone through so much trouble to look fantastic for Harry, so she picked up her bag and left the room.

Harry had his back to her as she walked into the living room. She was glad she had dressed so well, since he was wearing a suit.

“I'm ready,” she said and smiled as he turned around to face her.

He could not help himself. His mouth dropped open but no sound came out of it.

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Harry's mind came to a sudden stop and all of his thoughts collided against each other. Since she was now laughing at him, the little witch, he tried to regain his composure, or what was left of it.

“You look absolutely stunning, Hermione,” he finally managed to croak.

“Thank you, dear sir! You look pretty smashing yourself.”

And it was true, she thought. He was wearing a black suit with a light blue shirt underneath. He had left the first few buttons undone as well as the jacket. His hair was as messy as usual, but that just added to his raw sex appeal. She was stunned to realize that she wanted him. Oh, Merlin, the night was going to be interesting indeed.

Her eyes widened a bit at that revelation. Control yourself, Hermione, she admonished herself sternly. Do NOT go mental on him, and do NOT, under any circumstances, jump his body right now. Maybe later, came the sudden afterthought making her blush a bit.

Harry watched the play of emotions on her face and his heart took flight. Could it be? Could she feel the same way he did? Was she interested in him as more than a friend?

Before he could think more on the subject, she regained control of herself and smiled at him. “Shall we go?”

“Yes, I think we should. I called a taxi and it should pull up in the front at any moment now. I didn't want to drive in case we drank a bit too much, you know.”

“That was very thoughtful of you, Harry. You're right; tomorrow is Saturday and I don't have to be at work, so a bottle of wine sounds splendid.”

They heard a horn beep and smiled at each other. “Just in time!”

He was glad, since his pants had gotten decidedly uncomfortable since he had laid his eyes on her. He opened the door and let her out first, locking it behind him with a couple of strong charms.

Harry opened the taxi's door for her and slipped in after she settled in the seat. She raised her eyebrows when she heard him tell the driver where they were going. That particular restaurant was very trendy and very expensive. To make reservations, you had to call weeks in advance and she was surprised that they were heading that way.

After talking for a little while, Hermione noticed they were close to the restaurant and voiced her concerns.

“How are we going to get in there tonight, Mr. Potter?” she inquired.

“I know you hate to take advantage of our fame, but since you look so beautiful, nothing else will do and I'm going to rely on that fame to get us in the door!” he finished smiling wickedly at her.

“Harry James Potter, have you gone mad?” she gasped. “You really think they're just going to let us in just like that!”

“I know they will. It is good for their business. I use them and they use me. It works out beautifully every time,” he finished laughing at her expression.

“You're terrible, Harry, but I have to love you just the same,” she finished smiling and leaned over and gave him one of her famous pecks on the lips. She then ran her fingers softly over his lips to remove the traces of lipstick from them. “I don't want to leave my mark on you and ruin your chances with some other girl.”

“Mark me all you want, Mione, since tonight I only have eyes for you,” he said as he leaned over and kissed her back, and as before, he lingered just a second too long. He smiled when he felt her breath leave her body.

Serves her right, he thought. Between her clothes, her curls and that damned perfume he loved so much she could bring a lesser man to his knees.

Before she could wonder what he meant by that, they pulled up in front of the restaurant and the door attendant was already walking their way to open the car's door.

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A/N: All of the characters you recognize belong to the wonderful mind of our beloved author, JK Rowling. I promise to put them back when I am done playing with them.

I guess I also wanted to address a couple of concerns some of you seem to have. This story has some OOC parts, and that's where some of the creative aspect of it shows. I also wanted to address another angry comment saying I'm making Hermione look like a slut. I was surprised by this, since she is clearly only flirting with Harry and no one else. Not sure where I failed and gave that wrong impression of her. Hermione is NOT a slut, and I would never portray her as such since she is my favorite character of the books.

As far as the belly ring and the tattoo, I knew that would raise many eyebrows, maybe that's why I did it. My favorite part was the significance of it. The little make-up (and it is little) that she now wears as well as her more manageable hair do, are all part of growing up. Women have been vain since the beginning of time and will continue to be so. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that and it does not mean she isn't the same person inside, it just means that she cares a bit more about her looks.

Again, thanks for all of the reviews and comments. They are appreciated and nothing is taken the wrong way. I am certainly looking forward to more of them, since this chapter is also OOC in some parts.

Dinner For Two

Hermione took the door attendant's hand and got out of the car. Harry quickly followed and smiled his thanks at him. After paying the driver, he turned his attention to Hermione.

“Shall we?” he asked gesturing towards the steps leading up to the restaurant's door.

She nodded and took in her surroundings. There was a bit of a line at the door as she had suspected. Harry put his arm around her waist and pulled her closer to him. As they were ascending the steps, several flashes went off and blinded Hermione for a moment.

“Bloody hell,” she whispered.

“Language!” Harry said laughing. “You've gotten really bad about that, you know.”

“It's yours and Ron's fault. I can't very well live with the two of you and not pick it up,” she explained.

“True. Let's go in before it gets worse. It's Friday and the paparazzi is usually here trying to catch something.”

“Well, if you don't want them to take our picture, you might want to keep your arms to yourself,” she told him looking at where his fingers rested on her waist.

Flash

“I should just kiss you and see how crazy they go,” he told her in good spirits.

“Harry, don't you dare. We would become a media circus once again.”

He smiled wickedly at her, kissed her on the cheek, and moved to her ear. “Spoil sport.”

Flash

Hermione felt her body tremble and his warm breath touched her earlobe. “You're a bad man, Potter.”

“But you love me all the same, Mione,” he said smiling and looking into her eyes. He forgot were he was for a moment, and he would have kissed her for real had the server not chosen that instant to interrupt them.

Flash

They heard the many groans as they were whisked inside the restaurant at once. Hermione felt a bit guilty, but then she remembered exactly why they had certain privileges and forgot all about the guilt. They had saved their very world, for Merlin's sake.

They were led to a table on the back that was secluded and very private. Thanks to a beautifully carved room divider and some strategically placed potted plants, they could have dinner and enjoy their time together without people staring at them. Hermione was glad for that since she was not in a sharing mood. She had only been gone a few days, but she had missed him dearly.

Harry pulled out a chair for her, and waited for her to sit down. Instead of sitting across the table from her, he pulled his chair around and sat at her side. He ordered a bottle of wine while Hermione concentrated on the menu.

“What are you going to order?” she asked him. “This is my first time here and I'm not sure what to get.”

“Do you want me to order for you? I've tasted just about everything they serve here and it's all very good.”

“Yes, that would be fine. Thanks.” She said this still looking at the menu and avoiding his gaze.

He could tell by her dry tone that she was not pleased. “Something wrong?”

“Not a thing.”

“Mmm hmm.” He looked at his own menu and smiled. His heart was elated that she was jealous.

Hermione peaked at him and saw the smile. That made her even madder. She had figured the restaurant was a frequent stop for him. He was on a first-name basis with the staff and it meant he brought many of his dates here. All of a sudden, she was not so hungry anymore and laid her menu down. She looked out the window and sighed quietly. She refused to listen to the voice inside her head. She was NOT jealous.

Harry could not stand it any longer. He put his menu down and called her name softly. When she did not turn around, he brought his hand up and cupped her chin, making her look at him.

“Stop thinking so much, okay. I know what you are thinking and it is true. I am not going to apologize for that. But,” he said as she was about to turn away again, “tonight is about you and you only.”

Hermione looked deep into his eyes and saw the truth there. She nodded.

Flash

He let go of her chin and looked at the window at the same time she did. Apparently, the paparazzi were still trying to get a good shot of them. She lifted her hand casually and waved it at the window murmuring some words. The spell made the glass darken considerably, and while they could still see out, the photographer would not be able to see in.

“Wow,” Harry said impressed. “You've really gotten good at casting charms without your wand, Mione.”

“Comes with the territory, I guess.” She uttered the words nonchalantly, but inside she was brimming with pride at his praise.

The wine arrived and after tasting it, Harry approved of it and the server poured them each a glass.

“Mr. Potter, our head chef knows that you are here with Miss Granger. He has asked me to tell you that he is preparing a special meal in your honor. He will bring it out himself when it is done.”

Hermione was impressed. Harry was right; their fame did have its rewards.

“Tell him we appreciate it and we're looking forward to it.”

He nodded and walked away. Harry turned back to Hermione and smiled. “See? What did I tell you? There is no reason to feel guilty or bad for the things people want to do for us. We paid a high price for it.”

She nodded. “It makes me a bit uncomfortable, but at the same time I understand where you are coming from.”

“You know we're going to make headlines tomorrow, right?”

“Harry, we've been making headlines for years! Even back in school we were romantically linked by that hideous woman. Tomorrow will be no different.”

“See, that's what I like so much about you, Mione. I can be myself and relax because I know you're out with me because you genuinely like me, and not for being noticed by the media.”

She cocked her head to the side. “Are you implying that the women you date only go out with you because you're Harry Potter?”

“Something like that,” he said a bit embarrassed.

“That's impossible,” she said outraged.

“Is it?” He was dying to hear what she had to say on the subject.

“Of course it is! You are handsome, charming and intelligent. I would be honored to go out with you, Harry James, and they should be as well.”

He smiled. He could not help it. She was so cute when she got excited about something. When she realized what she had just said, she blushed.

“Thank you, Mione. That was nice for my ego.” He leaned over and kissed her softly on the lips. Before she could pull apart, it happened again.

Flash

“Oh, for the love of god,” she said exasperated as she pulled her chair back.

Hermione turned around quickly and there was fire in her eyes. She got up from the chair and raised the hem of her dress, exposing the wand holster she always wore under her dresses or skirts. She pointed it at someone Harry could not see.

“Accio camera,” she said and the camera flew into her hands. She quickly tapped it with her wand and smoke came out of it. He knew the film was ruined beyond repair. She threw the camera back at the poor guy and hit him square in the chest. He caught it and groaned.

He was immediately escorted out, none to gently. Harry watched mesmerized as she put the wand back in its holster and pulled the hem down. He has also gotten a good glimpse of her smooth thigh. He shifted in his seat and cleared his throat a bit.

“That was brilliant,” he told her admiringly.

“Thanks. It felt good to do it as well,” she told him as she sat down again.

“I didn't know you still had the holster.”

“Why would I get rid of it when you had it made especially for me? Besides, how attractive would I look if I were to carry the wand in my hand while dressed like this? It was a wonderful gift and I have gotten a lot of use out of it,” she explained simply.

Harry had the wand holsters made for all three of them right before the war. It had made it easier to carry their wands when they were backpacking from place to place trying to find the Horcruxes. They could wear them over their jeans and it was by their hands at all times without them running the risk of losing it on long treks or climbs.

“I didn't know you had it under that dress either. You can't see it bulging and that dress is skin tight on you,” he said running his eyes appreciatively over her figure.

She smiled at him. “That's were magic comes in. I can charm it so it isn't noticeable at all. Do you like the dress?” she asked at the last minute throwing him off.

“You know I do, so don't even bother fishing for compliments. You look smashing and you know it. I am sure you noticed the looks on the faces of the crowd and we walked in. The women wanted to claw your eyes out and the men just wanted to rip the dress right off.” He took a deep sip of his wine when he finished talking.

“Harry, how barbaric,” she gasped.

“I am only stating the obvious.”

“Are you saying, since you're a man and all, that you would do the same?” she asked and looked at him over the rim of her glass.

He was saved from answering by the chef, who chose that moment to come by their table with two steaming plates. He placed the plates in front of them with a flourish and smiled at both of them expectantly.

Hermione looked at the beautifully prepared dish and smiled. If it tasted as good as it looked, she would be in heaven. Since she knew she was expected to try it first, she cut a small piece of meat and placed it in her mouth. She closed her eyes as the flavors exploded inside of her mouth. She gave a little moan as she chewed.

Harry watched her and shifted in his seat once again. He was going to hire the chef and bring him home with him just to see that look on Hermione's face everyday. She looked like she was in ecstasy and he grew hungry just watching her. However, his hunger was of a different kind.

“Do you like it then?” the chef asked timidly. She had also enchanted him. What else was new, Harry thought sarcastically.

“Like it? I love it. This is splendid, chef,” she said giving him a sincere smile.

“Enjoy then. I will send dessert a bit later. I made it especially for you, mademoiselle.”

Okay, so he was not going to hire him after all, thought Harry.

“Thank you.”

The server put another bottle of wine on the table after uncorking it and removed the empty one. Harry filled their glasses once again before turning to his own meal. Once he tasted it, he had to admit it was delicious.

They continued talking as they ate and Hermione told Harry all about her trip. By the time she was done, they had finished the main course and the server had brought over dessert. The plating was incredible.

“Oh,” Hermione said as she looked at it and smiled. On the plate was a chocolate cake covered in raspberry sauce and fresh raspberries. When she cut into it, warm chocolate sauce oozed from the inside. She took a bite and closed her eyes once again, savoring it.

Harry cursed under his breath. He had never realized how sexy Hermione could be when she ate. His arousal was beginning to bother him a bit and he knew there was nothing he could do about it. He wondered how in the bloody hell a person could be jealous of chocolate cake.

“It's that good, huh?” he asked watching her.

She nodded.

“It's sinful. Rich and exotic. It melts in your mouth and you want to go on savoring it for as long as possible. The combination of flavors and texture is almost erotic in nature. I would dare say it's better than a good shag!” she finished and smiled at him, her eyes crinkling at the corners.

If Harry had thought his erection was bothering him before, he had been dead wrong. He was so hard it wasn't even funny. He was glad the tablecloth covered his lap or he would have some explaining to do.

“Is that so,” he all but croaked.

“Taste it and you'll see.”

He nodded and took a bite out of his dessert. He had to admit it was good, but he had his doubts about the shag part. He knew without a doubt that being with her would make his other physical encounters pale in comparison.

After eating in silence for a few minutes, Hermione took a delicate sip of wine and looked over at Harry.

“You never answered my question,” she told him as she set the glass down.

He was shortly lost. “What question was that?”

“The one about ripping my dress off,” she said as she licked some chocolate sauce from her lips.

Harry almost chocked on his cake. He had thought she had forgotten about that. He swallowed before answering, taking his time as he did so.

“Do you honestly want me to answer that, Hermione?” he finally asked.

She looked into his eyes and saw raw hunger in them. Did she dare? Oh, hell, why not?

“I'd like to know the answer, Harry, otherwise I wouldn't have asked,” she replied daringly.

Harry put his fork down and looked at her. “Then maybe this will answer your question,” he said as he leaned towards her and kissed her.

Only this time it was not a bare brush of his lips, but a deep and fully satisfying kiss. He drew back after a few minutes and they were both panting slightly.

“Does that answer your question?” he asked in a voice deep with arousal.

She looked surprised, but she recovered quickly. She ran her tongue over her lips, as if savoring the taste of him and smiled. His eyes followed her tongue and the need grew in him. He wondered when had she become such a seductress, and why he had not noticed before now.

“Yes, it most definitely did.”

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A/N: All of the characters you recognize belong to the wonderful mind of our beloved author, JK Rowling. I promise to put them back when I am done playing with them. They assured me that they do not mind playing at all! In fact, they are enjoying it.

I also wanted to take the time to say thank you for all of the wonderful reviews! I was amazed by the support the story is getting and happy that you are all enjoying a more carefree and flirty Hermione. There is nothing better than a woman who is smart and sexy and I think she is both. I love their interaction, their flirting, and their sexiness, so you will get a lot more of that! Oh, and sorry for the cliffhanger, since at the time it did not seem as such. *laughs wickedly*

Without further ado, here is chapter 3. Hope you enjoy!

Nothing More Than A Kiss

Harry looked at her and wondered when Hermione had become so bold and self-assured. It was damn sexy on her. She was the only bookwork he knew that could pull being sexy so well. Her intelligence was legendary and had saved their arses more times than he cared to remember now. Ever since she had realized her attributes as a woman, all of that had changed. Gone was the bushy hair and her shyness. In its place was a very confident and sensual woman and Harry was crazy about her.

“What are you thinking,” she asked when he kept staring at her without saying anything.

“I was just thinking about how smart and beautiful you are,” he said simply.

“Thank you, Harry,” she said smiling brightly at him. “You even get extra points for mentioning that I'm smart first,” she continued cheekily.

“I'm sorry for kissing you just now. Maybe I was out of place and shouldn't have done that.”

“Maybe you shouldn't worry about it so much, you know. It was just a kiss between friends.”

His blood began to boil. Just a kiss between friends, eh? Was she mental? That kiss had rocked his world, damn it.

“Do you kiss all of your male friends like that?”

“No, just the handsome ones like you,” she said coquettishly. Oh, but she was loving this conversation! No sense in telling him it had been ages since she had kissed another guy.

“Pardon me? Hermione, you can't just go around kissing men left and right.”

“And why in Merlin's name not? You kiss plenty of women all of the time.”

“That's not the point,” he replied stubbornly.

“And what is the point, oh wise one?”

“Real cute. You have a very big reputation to uphold and it could affect your position at the hospital.”

“Is that really the reason?”

“Yes! What other reason could there be?” This conversation was getting out of hand and it was a bit annoying that she kept getting the upper hand. He didn't even want to think about another man looking at her, let alone kissing her.

“Could you be jealous, perhaps?”

“That's nonsense, Hermione,” he said not looking at her. He pushed his dessert away since he did not feel like eating anymore. He finished the contents of his wine glass in one long gulp.

Hermione noticed and smiled inwardly. “It's okay, Harry. I think it's adorable that you care so much.”

He noticed that her eyes were crinkled at their corners again and had to smile. He had never been able to stay mad at her for long.

“Witch.”

“Glad you noticed.”

“You have an answer for everything don't you?”

“We've been best-friends for the past fourteen years or so. You should know better than to ask that, love.” She winked at him.

“Maybe we should go home.”

“You're right. I am sure the media will be waiting impatiently to take more pictures of us. We shouldn't keep them waiting,” she finished sarcastically.

“You're right. Let me take care of the bill and we're out of here.”

She nodded and sipped the last of her wine as he walked away. She loved teasing the poor man, and it served him right to be brought down a peg or two every now and then. It kept his feet on the ground as far as she was concerned.

He came back a few minutes later and she took the time to admire him. She smiled knowingly when she saw the tale tell bulge in front of his pants. She did not want to think about what seeing him like that did to her ego.

“Shall we?” he asked extending his hand towards her. She took his hand and stood up making sure to rub against his body as she did so. He gasped when her hand `accidentally' rubbed against his most intimate part.

“Bloody hell,” he said under his breath, but she heard him and giggled. Harry stared at her in disbelief. The little witch had giggled!

“Oops, sorry.”

Before he could say anything, she walked ahead of him, her hips swinging seductively from side to side. What was she playing at, he wondered not for the very first time that day. He followed her and took her hand right before she stepped out of the doors, bringing her close to him once again.

The moment they walked out, the number of people gathered around stunned her. It seemed word had gotten out that they were there. There were at least three photographers and four or five reporters. They came at them at once, shouting questions and taking pictures. Harry let go of her hand and put his arm around her shoulders, sheltering her a bit from the group. Thankfully, some of the servers came out and helped them get down to their waiting cab.

Once settled inside, she looked at him in wonder. “What in the name of Merlin was that, Harry?”

“I have no idea, to be honest. It's never that bad.”

“How can we still generate so much interest after so long?”

“When was the last time we went out alone? And dressed like this?”

“I can't remember, but it's been a long time.”

“Then I would suggest you get ready, because we're going to make the front page tomorrow.”

“I can see it now. I hope you didn't have any hot dates this weekend. They're not going to be happy with you!”

“I didn't make any plans, since you were coming back today and I wanted to spend the weekend with you,” he told her.

“Oh, Harry, that was sweet of you. Did you have any plans in mind?”

“No, but after the media circus that's about to start, what do you think about going away from the city for the next couple of days?”

“Where do you want to go?” she asked interestedly.

“Preferably to some little cottage in the countryside. We can leave early in the morning and be back on Sunday night.”

“That sounds wonderful, Harry, I would love to. After the long week I just had I could use a couple of days of nothing but relaxation.”

“Then I have just the place in mind.”

They had reached their flat by then and quickly went in. They didn't know if anyone had been daring enough to follow them home.

Once inside, Harry turned to look at her.

“Thank you for the lovely evening. I had a lot of fun.” She hugged him tightly but as she was about to step back, he grabbed her by the waist and kept her close to him.

“I'm glad you enjoyed it. We should make a point of doing it more often.”

Hermione rested the palms of her hands against his chest and smiled up at him. She could feel the beating of his heart against her hand.

“Why is your heart beating so fast Harry?”

“Must be because I'm holding you close and I don't want to let you go,” he answered honestly, as he looked deep into her eyes.

Hermione was beginning to think this was no longer a game between friends. That worried her immensely since she did not want to mess their friendship up if things didn't work out between them. They had already lost so much.

“I think it's best if I go to bed now, Harry.” She dropped her hands from his chest and stepped back from his arms. She immediately felt cold.

“What are you afraid of?” he asked.

“Losing you,” she answered honestly.

“That will never happen, Mione.”

“No one can promise me that, and I won't risk it. What we have is too precious and I'm not willing to sacrifice it for a wild night of passion,” she explained softly.

“I can promise you it won't be a one-night-only affair.”

“Even so, I'm not ready to cross that line just yet. Goodnight, Harry.”

She started walking towards the steps and he followed her. He caught her as she put her foot on the bottom step. He took her hand and she turned to look at him.

“What about this weekend? Do you want to cancel our plans?”

“No. I'll be ready to leave at seven in the morning.”

He nodded. “Good night, then.”

She smiled softly at him, turned around, and walked up the stairs without a backward glance.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Harry sighed and decided to go into their home office. He went directly to the bar and poured himself some firewhisky in a glass. He sat on the sofa and leaned his head back. He closed his eyes and replayed the evening in his mind.

She had never acted so boldly around him. She had kissed him back with as much passion as he had. Their tongues had met and danced together erotically. Merlin, but she was a great kisser, he thought, running his hand absently over his still hard member. She had responded with abandon to his kiss and he would have kept on going had they not been in a public place.

But had she really felt it? Had she realized how deep his feeling for her ran? He had been in love with her for years, but he had kept that love to himself for the same fears she now had. He had been afraid of losing her. Unfortunately for him, time had done nothing but increase those feelings. As he had watched each of their friends get together and make it work, his heart had found hope. Ron and Luna would be married soon. Neville and Ginny were making it work and were both happy. The rest of their friends were either married or seriously dating someone. The only ones left were them, and he knew in his heart that they were meant to be together.

She was so precious to him that he would gladly give his life for her. As far as he was concerned, their current relationship was even better than that of most of the people he knew. They cared about each other and took care of each other on a daily basis. They helped each other out through good and bad. The best part was that they already had a strong foundation on which to build a loving relationship.

Harry understood her fear because he'd had those same fears for a long time himself. He had acted on his feelings tonight out of sheer madness, he knew, but he was not sorry. His instinct told him to keep pushing her for more, that she would eventually give in. His heart was practically begging him to go on as well. It felt right.

He remembered their kiss again and he knew he was hooked. He would not let another man touch her ever again. She was his and his only. He knew he had to find a way to make her understand. If he played his cards right over the weekend, he might finally get his wish. He drowned his drink and stood up. His mind was made up and Hermione was in for the ride of her life. She had no idea what awaited her. He suddenly remembered what she had said: `even so, I'm not ready to cross that line just yet'. Well, by Merlin, he was. Her `just yet' was going to get a little push into right now.

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Hermione lay in her bed, but she was not able to fall asleep. Her mind was so full of thoughts she wished she had a pensive in which to empty them all. She kept remembering their kiss and her skin would flush. Why, oh why, had she acted like such a prat and egged him on? She should have known better than to dare and push Harry. He had never been able to back away from a challenge. She had let him caress her in the afternoon, she had accepted his kisses as if it was a part of their daily routine, and she had dressed provocatively to get a rise out if him.

He had responded as any other hot-blooded male would if facing the same situation. If she was honest with herself, she had to admit that she had loved the attention he had given her and had enjoyed their evening immensely. She was also looking forward to their weekend.

Would it be so bad to let go and see where it all lead them? she wondered not for the first time that night. Could it work for them as it had for the rest of their friends? Could they find more than just friendship with each other? She turned on her stomach and sighed. She tried to empty her mind, as she had learned from Harry before the war. Occlumencia had become their ally during that time and she was glad she had mastered it. She took a deep breath and emptied out her mind little by little. Once she had, she snuggled between her sheets and fell asleep thinking that the weekend would be better.

She had no idea just how right she was.

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A/N: Again, nothing is mine. I just borrowed the characters you recognize from JK Rowling's books and put my own spin into this story. I hope you are enjoying it as much as I am enjoying writing it.

Wow! Thanks so much for the reviews! They're awesome and I was so excited to read them all. Some of them were laugh out loud funny. I hope this chapter makes up for the disappointment some of you expressed at their slow pace in getting it on!!

There are definitely some OOC parts in this story, but they fit in with the rest. I guess I'm a rebel at heart and like to see these characters have fun since the first part of their lives was spent fighting, worrying, and basically escaping death at every corner. I think it's time they have a bit of fun, don't you? Since some of you are anxiously awaiting their coming together (pardon the pun), here's to raising more eyebrows! Cheers.

The Morning After

Hermione was awake by six out of habit. She never bothered with alarms since her internal clock never failed her. She opened her eyes and stretched. She got up slowly and walked into her bathroom. She had a huge room thanks to some magically added spaces. It was more like a suite than a room, if she was honest with herself. Her bathroom had a shower stall as well as a Jacuzzi. Her walk-in closet was huge and Ginny had helped her fill it up with wonderful clothes and shoes. She even had a fireplace and a small sitting area in front of it. Her recliner was made of the finest leather and she felt like she was sitting in a cloud every time that she sank her body into it. Bless that Harry Potter for getting it for her last birthday. It had come accompanied by a rare, first edition copy of Hogwarts, A History. Hermione refused to think about how much he had spent on the gifts.

Another reason why you love him so much, The Voice inside her head insisted on reminding her. Who else would think to get you more books? It is not as if you need any!

“Oh, shush,” she said aloud as she stripped and walked into her shower stall. Warm water cascaded down her body and she felt her body relaxing. She showered taking her time, since she had packed the night before and could indulge herself. She even washed he hair and took the time to use the shaving charm over her legs, underarms, and more intimate body parts.

When she was done, she put on her underwear, smiling as she though about Harry. How would he react if he knew that she loved wearing g-strings? All of her undergarments were sexy and feminine. All of her bras and panties matched and left little to the imagination. The only time she did not wear them was during that hideous time of the month, and even then, those undergarments were sexy as well. They just covered more! Thank Ginny and her overly feminine side for teaching her the finest points of being a woman and learning to love her body.

After the war, they had come back destroyed and depressed by so much death and despair. After a few weeks of feeling miserable and down, Ginny had taken Hermione shopping in London. They had spent tons of money, but it had been worth it. She had learned to deal with her hair, to do her make-up, and to dress better. Who would have thought that the girl they called `bookworm' had such a sensual side? Hermione looked at herself in the mirror appreciatively and smiled. Oh yeah, her tomboy years were definitely over.

The entire time she had been at Hogwarts, she'd only had time to worry about her studies and staying alive for one more year. She'd never found the time to simply enjoy being a girl. While Lavender and the Patil twins had learned all about make-up and hair potions, she had been fighting one strange creature after another next to Harry and Ron.

But all of that had changed after the war and she had definitely made up for lost time. True, everything she bought or did concerning her appearance was done with Harry in mind, but she was not going to dwell on that particular point.

Mmm, hmm, said The Voice. She chose wisely to ignore it.

She was wearing khaki carpenter shorts that exposed a lot of her legs, a light blue shirt that showed off a bit of her tattoo, and leather sandals. Her toenails were painted a light pink. She did a quick drying charm on her hair and put her curls up into a loose ponytail. She put on a leather chocker around her neck and its matching bracelet went on her arm. They were also gifts from Harry. Her Rolex went on the other arm. Being brought up as a muggle, she was used to wearing a watch and after the war was over, her parents had rewarded her with the expensive watch. She put on a couple of platinum rings on her fingers and platinum hoops on her ears. After adding just a touch of make-up to her face and spraying some perfume on her throat and wrists, she grabbed her overnight bag and went downstairs to meet Harry.

She knew she looked cute and ready to play. She hoped Harry liked it.

Don't say a single word, she warned The Voice sternly.

I don't have to this time, you seem to be figuring it out by yourself, came the snotty reply and Hermione had to laugh out loud. The nerve!

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Harry was in the kitchen filling a thermos with hot coffee when he heard Hermione calling out his name from the living room.

“I'm in the kitchen,” he called out.

She came in and walked over, leaning against the counter next to him. “Hi.”

He turned to look at her and smiled appreciatively. His gaze went from her hair to her toes. She noticed that his eyes lingered on her legs and breasts.

“You look cute,” he told her when his eyes reached hers again.

“Thank you,” she said as she did her own once-over of him.

He was wearing a similar outfit, but his shorts were longer, and his shirt was a green color that closely matched his eyes. She had gotten him the shirt for that same reason. On his throat was a braided leather string from where a small gold snitch hung. She'd had it made especially for him and he rarely took it off. His leather sandals matched hers since they had bought them together on a resent trip to the beach.

See? said The Voice. You even dress alike and give each other gifts that have a lot of significance. You go on holidays together. Do you need any more proof that this is meant to be or are you becoming daft as you get older?

“Like what you see?” he asked her as he moved over in front of her placing his hands on the counter and trapping her in-between.

She looked up into his smiling face and could not help but smile in return. “I would have to say yes.”

He lowered his head to her neck and took a deep breath. “Do you wear this perfume so much because you like it or to make me crazy?”

His breath against her sensitive skin made the hairs on the back of her neck stand up. She trembled when he placed a small kiss on that same spot.

“I, err, that is…” her voice trailed off on a sigh when he opened his mouth over that sensitive spot and his tongue licked her skin.

“What's that?” he asked humorously as he continued to torment her with soft kisses and nips of his teeth. Her hands were now at his waist, pulling him closer without noticing she was doing so.

“Maybe of you stop doing that for a just a minute, my mind would respond normally again and I would be able to give you a smart answer Harry,” she finally managed to say as she tilted her head to the side to give him better access to her neck. A soft moan escaped her lips making him crazy with need.

“That's your problem, Mione, you think too much,” he said and brought his mouth over to hers, kissing her deeply before she had a chance to protest. His hands went to her waist and hers moved up his chest and wrapped around his neck.

The kiss was long and wet. He took and he gave. She did the same. Her fingers played with his hair and his fingers played with the soft skin on her lower back. He pressed against her and she could feel the beginning of his erection against her belly. She pulled back and gasped, resting her forehead against his chest.

“Where did you learn to kiss like that?” she asked breathlessly.

“Do you like it?”

“I can become addicted,” she admitted as she looked back into his face. His eyes seemed clouded with need.

“That's a good thing because I'm already addicted to yours. It's me who should be asking that question,” he finished and lowered his head to hers again.

This time the kiss was longer and more passionate. He could not get enough of her. He ran his hand up her back, caressing her skin softly. He reached the back of her bra and his fingers encountered lace. Unable to stop himself, he followed the lace from her back to the sides of her breasts and felt her breath catch. Feeling bolder, he moved his hands to her front and finally cupped her, squeezing softly.

Hermione dragged her mouth away from his and took a shuddering breath. “Harry…”

“Yes, love?”

Hermione did not know what to say, so she did the next best thing and bit his neck softly, drawing a groan from him. He was still caressing her breasts and her nipples were hard. He rolled them between his fingers gently and she gasped again.

“I need more than that,” she whispered against his neck. Had she really said that out loud? she wondered wildly.

He was more than happy to oblige. He lifted her shirt up and looked down at her. Her lace bra was a light blue color that matched her shirt. He could see how hard her nipples were and he lowered his head to one and flicked his tongue over it. She moaned as her fingers ran through his hair, bringing his mouth closer to her. He cupped her arse and lifted her so that she was sitting on top of the counter. He spread her legs and settled in between.

While he kissed her hungrily, he undid the clasp of her bra and removed it, caressing her breasts delicately as he did so. He cupped her again and groaned into her mouth when he felt how soft they felt in his hands.

He pulled back and looked into her eyes. “Tell me to stop.”

Hermione had to think about that one for a second. Stop? Was he mad? She took a deep breath and debated what to do. Her rational mind shouted: stop this instant you crazy fool. But her heart was screaming at her to let go and enjoy the moment. She did the only thing a brilliant person in her situation would do. Hermione pulled him closer and wrapped her legs around his waist.

“I don't want you to stop. If fact,” she said as she grabbed his shirt and pulled it over his head, “I want very much to continue.”

His smile was her reward. “I was hoping you'd say that! What about our trip?”

“It's about half past seven, Harry; we have the rest of the day for that.”

“I love the way you think, Mione.”

“I'm glad, Harry, but will you shut up and kiss me already?”

He wasted no time. He did not just kiss her; he made love to her mouth while his hands roamed over her body, caressing, touching, and driving her crazy with want. He cupped her arse and pulled her closer to his erection, rubbing gently against her.

“Harry. Upstairs. Now.”

“Yes, ma'am,” he said as he grabbed her by the waist and apparated them to his room. Once there, she let her legs slide down while still kissing him. Boldly, she ran her hands down his muscular chest to the waistband of his shorts. While one hand went to work on unbuttoning it, the other squeezed his arse.

“You're driving me crazy, Mione,” he all but whispered.

He gasped when she cupped him and squeezed. He hadn't realize that she had lowered his shorts and his boxers down and now held him in her hand, her fingers caressing his wet tip softly. She started moving lower, trailing wet kisses down his chest and running her nail lightly over his skin. She finally went down on her knees and licked his tip while he buried his fingers in her hair.

Hermione had never been so bold in her entire life. Then again, she'd never trusted another man as much as she trusted Harry. That same trust emboldened her to keep on going, and if she was to go by his moans, he was enjoying the attention she was giving him immensely. While her mouth pleasured him, her hands kept on squeezing his arse, keeping him just where she wanted him.

After a few minutes of sheer torture, Harry could not take it anymore. He grabbed her by the shoulders and lifted her up. “If you don't stop that, this if going to be over before it has begun.”

He quickly took off her shorts and gasped when he saw the rest of her underwear. There was so little of it he wondered why she bothered with it at all. Had he known this little tidbit of information, he would have made his move on her a lot sooner! He turned her around, his eyes taking all of her body in.

“You are absolutely beautiful, Hermione,” he said as he lowered his head and kissed her again. He ran his hands appreciatively over her exposed arse and played with the little bit of string that held her panties together.

He finally lowered them down and his fingers went to find her feminine spot. When his fingers encountered nothing but smooth skin, he broke the kiss and looked down, raising his eyebrows at the discovery.

“I like it better that way,” she explained shyly when he looked at her, unable to hide the surprise from his face.

“I do, too!” He pushed her back against the bed and she sat down on it. He kneeled in front of her and spread her legs once again. He lowered his head, and without giving her time to wonder or protest, he flicked his tongue over her most sensitive spot. Hermione's hips shot off the bed, but he grabbed her waist and held her in place as his mouth fully opened over her. He licked, he sucked, he bit, and he devoured her with a hunger he had never experienced before in his life.

Suddenly she grabbed his head and made him stop. He looked up at her questioningly.

“I want you inside of me when I come, love.”

He rose from the floor and she settled in the middle of his bed. Before he lowered his body unto hers, he put his palm against her belly and murmured a contraceptive charm. Her love for him grew for that simple, yet caring, gesture.

He finally settled on top of her and kissed her. She could taste herself in his kiss and that made her desire grow even more. She ran her hands up and down his back, massaging the muscles, bringing him as close to her as possible. He caressed and suckled her breasts. After a while, kisses and caresses were not enough.

“Don't make me wait any longer, Harry,” she practically begged.

“Then take me,” he said as she opened her legs wider and he buried himself slowly into her.

She moaned. He groaned. They gasped. Together, they started moving as one. Harry moved slowly at first, letting her get used to him, but then she urged him on with her hands and hips and he let go of his inhibitions. His rhythm picked up and she met him thrust by thrust, encouraging him with sweet words and kissed.

And just when he thought he couldn't take anymore, her world exploded into a millions stars as she cried out his name. He pushed into her a few more times and then gave in to his own explosive climax. After, he lay panting on top of her as she hugged his body fiercely.

A few minutes later, he turned on his back, bringing her body with him, so she was laying on top. She rested her head on his chest and willed her pulse and breathing to come back to normal. He caressed her hair softly, his fingers playing with her curls.

“That was amazing,” he said as he let his hand rest on her lower back.

“Nothing short of brilliant,” came her answer.

“Better than chocolate cake?” he asked, and she could hear the laughter in his voice.

“Oh, love, as good as that cake was, it had nothing on you!”

“Well, I aim to please,”

“Bless that aim, Harry James Potter,” she said as she looked at him and wiggled her eyebrows.

She wondered idly what had happen to the line she had told him she was not ready to cross just yet. Not only had she crossed it, she had done a silly little dance over it.

Well it's about bloody time, too, said The Voice.

She could not agree more.

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A/N: It all belongs to Jo. Nothing is mine. If it were, I would be laying down on some beautiful beach enjoying life and sipping a wonderful fruity drink out of a coconut, and not here writing this. *wink*

Thanks so much for the lovely reviews and for appreciating that writing a love scene can be sexy and hot without being overly graphic. I'm glad you all enjoyed it. I assure you they did as well! LOL

After lots of loving and flirting, alas, drama enters the story as requested. I do not like writing angsty fiction (so don't even expect that), but we can always use a bit of drama.

The Cottage

After a while, Hermione lifted her head from Harry's chest and smiled at him. “Maybe we should get ready again and go on our little road trip.”

“Are you sure? We can stay here all day instead.”

“Nope. I want to go to the cottage. Besides, we can continue there what we started here!” she said winking at him.

“Well, in that case we can go. But I suggest we shower first, since we did sweat a bit!”

“Fine, meet you downstairs in half an hour. If we take a shower together, we'll never make it out the door.”

She dropped a quick kiss on his lips and got up. With a wave of her hand, she summoned all of her clothes and walked out of the room, hips swinging invitingly. Harry groaned as he admired her from the bed. He could hear her laughter down the hall and smiled.

After their second shower of the day, they met downstairs as accorded and Harry took their bags out while she locked the flat.

He put their things in her car, since it was a convertible, and she handed him her keys. “You can drive since you know where we're going, Harry.”

“Okay. It should only take a couple of hours to get there. It's close enough to go anytime, but far enough to forget the city for a while.”

“Sounds nice. I could use some time off before heading back to work on Monday.”

The drive to the cottage was relaxing and they talked the entire way about mundane things. What had happened between them before leaving was not mentioned once. However, she kept her hand on his thigh throughout the trip, and every now and then he would rest his over hers and squeezed it lovingly.

“We're almost there,” he said turning into a small drive that was lined with old trees and flowering bushes.

Hermione was reminded a bit of the Burrow. The cottage lay ahead, nestled between more trees and it was a beautiful place.

Hermione wasted no time getting out of the car once he had parked in front. She smiled at him.

“Oh, Harry, it's beautiful. Like something out of a fairytale. Who owns it?”

“We do,” he said as he came to stand next to her and dropped his arms casually around her shoulders.

“We do? What do you mean `we'?”

“That I bough it but it's in both of our names.”

“What?”

He chuckled. It was always a surprise to see Hermione confused and at a loss for words. It hardly ever happened.

“You heard me right. If anything ever happens to me, it's yours.”

“Nothing is going to happen to you, Harry James!” she said heatedly. “I still don't understand why you put it in both of our names.”

“Because when I first saw it, I knew in my heart that you would love it and that made the decision easier to make. It's fully furnished and I'm sure you'll like it since Ginny helped with the décor and she knows your tastes well.”

It was too much to comprehend at once and Hermione burst into sudden tears. Harry was instantly alarmed.

“Hermione, why are you crying?” he asked turning her around so she was facing him. “I thought you liked it.”

“You silly, wonderful man, of course I like it!” She threw her hands around his neck and kissed him.

Not one to waste time, he wrapped his arms around her and enjoyed the kiss.

She pulled away a moment later and she was smiling. “I still can't believe you did this, Harry. We're only friends.”

“Well, I'm hoping that after a weekend together here, you might change your mind about that.”

Her eyes were as big as saucers and he smiled tenderly at her. “Harry, I…”

He put a finger against her lips. “Don't say anything right now. All I'm asking is that you keep an open mind about us. After what happened before we left, I think it would be obvious that I want more than just your friendship, love. But we can talk about that later, after we're settled.”

She nodded and he removed his fingers from her lips. “Okay.”

“Go on ahead and I'll bring our things inside.”

She started walking towards the front door, amazed that her feet could move after what he had said. All of her pep talks about taking it slow and not jumping into anything with him went out the window in a flash. There was no way on God's green earth that she would be able to rein in her heart after the past few hours with him. Everything had changed now and even though it scared her a bit, she was willing to give their love a chance.

She disarmed the locking charms on the door and opened it. She stepped inside and was surprised at how cozy and warm the cottage was. There were overstuffed sofas and armchairs facing a huge stone fireplace. The carpet in front of it looked soft and inviting. The kitchen was open and airy. The dinning room was dark wood and could sit six people comfortably. There were stairs leading to a small loft that was surrounded by a wooden rail. She could see Ginny's touch in the pictures hanging on the walls, the candles around the room, and the many pillows and throws.

Hermione walked down the hall towards the back. She found two beautifully decorated bedrooms and bathrooms. On the back was a porch that faced a small pond where some ducks were frolicking in the water. She smiled at their antics and walked back inside. She met Harry as he was walking down the hall with their bags.

“Which bedroom do you want?” he asked her.

“Which one is yours?”

“I usually use the one in the back, since it has a view of the pond.”

“Then you can put my bags in there as well,” she said before she lost her nerve. She was quick to notice that he was surprised by her answer.

“Unless you don't want to, of course,” she added quickly, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

“Oh, no, you don't. There is no changing your mind now. I was hoping that would be your answer.” He winked at her and continued down the hall to their room. He was thanking the heavens the entire way. He specially liked how words like `his' or `hers' could now become `theirs' and `ours'.

When he came back out, she was sitting on the sofa, absently running her fingers through the soft pillow on her lap. He took a deep and satisfied breath and thanked his lucky stars once again for giving him this opportunity.

She turned around when she heard him approaching. “This place is beautiful inside and out, Harry. How did you find out about it?”

He lay down on the couch, resting his head on her lap. Her fingers immediately started playing with his hair the way he liked. He looked up at her and tried to ignore just how close her breasts were to his mouth. He cleared his throat and she smiled knowingly at him. Nothing got passed her, he thought.

“Minerva told me about it. It belonged to an old friend of hers and he was looking for someone he could trust to sell it.”

“Why someone he could trust?”

“Because it's been in his family for many decades and he didn't want the new owner to tear it down and build a huge house in its place. I promised him we wouldn't do that, that you would love it just as it was, and that it would be our escape from city life.”

“And who did you tell him I was?”

“My fiancée.”

“Your what?”

“You heard me right. I couldn't very well tell him we were just friends.”

“Why in Merlin's name not?” she asked, surprise coloring her words.

“He wouldn't have believed me since I kept talking about how much you would love it. It didn't help that Minerva told him we've been in love for years and best-friends for longer than that.”

“She said that?” Would the surprises never end? she wondered wildly as she tried to assimilate everything that Harry was saying to her.

“She did, and she was right about one part at least.”

“Well, sure, everyone knows we're best friends,” she acknowledge with a nod.

“That wasn't the part I meant,” he said as he looked deep into her eyes.

“Oh…”

He got up from her lap and sat facing her. He took her hand in his and laced their fingers together, letting them rest against his heart. “I love you, Hermione Jane Granger. I have been in love with you for as long as I can remember. You are my soul mate, my other half. I cannot go on pretending that all I want from you is friendship. I want so much more. I need so much more.”

“Oh, Harry, you do have a way with words,” she said as she leaned over and kissed him.

He kissed her back with all of the love inside of his heart, savoring their closeness and relieved that he had finally gotten to tell her how he really felt. After a few minutes, she pulled back, and her eyes were brimming with happy tears.

“I love you, too, Harry. I have for a long time but I was afraid of losing what we have if I gave into those feelings.”

“I felt the same way, but then I realized that it was working for the rest of our friends and maybe it could work for us as well.”

“I'm glad you did. I don't think I would have had the nerve to say something first.”

“I told Ron and Ginny this past week, and that's when she came over to help me decorate the cottage to your taste. That is also one of the reasons Ron stayed over at Luna's. I had asked them to give us some privacy this weekend.”

“So everyone is in on this,” she exclaimed surprised. “Now I understand why Ginny and Luna haven't called since I've been home. I had wondered about that.”

“So you're okay with this? With us being in love?”

“Yes, Harry, I'm more than okay with it,” she told him and kissed him with all of the pent-up passion she had been holding inside for so long.

He responded in kind. Little by little, their kisses grew more passionate and before they knew it, they were laying naked on the rug, making each other very happy once again.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A while later, Hermione looked at her watch and noticed it was close to midday. She was surprised at the time.

“Harry, it's almost lunch time. No wonder I am starved.”

“Do you want to go into town and grab a bite to eat? You're going to love it, it's a lot like Hogsmeade.”

“Then let's get dressed and go. As much as I enjoy seeing your naked arse, I also need to nourish my body with food!” She slapped his arse softly and got up.

He took the time to look at her while she dressed, his mind still trying to comprehend how someone so bookish could wear the kind of undergarments she did. This time they were pale pink in color, and just as tiny as the ones before. He had loved peeling them of her body inch by inch with his teeth. If he was to judge by her many moans and gasps, she had enjoyed it as well.

“Come on, you lazy bum, get off the floor and feed me!”

He laughed at her as he got up, completely comfortable in his nakedness. But before getting dressed again, he grabbed her by the waist and kissed her silly. After, he got dressed slowly, letting her watch his every move.

“Had I know you were so well endowed, Mr. Potter, I would have had my way with you a long time ago,” she said eyeing him sexily and wiggling her eyebrows.

“The feeling is mutual, Miss Granger. Had I known about your penchant for sexy underwear, I would done something sooner as well.”

“Oh, so you like my taste in underwear, eh?” she asked cheekily.

“Not only do I like it, I'm going to enjoy taking it off your gorgeous body everyday,” he assured her.

“Everyday? Think you can keep up?”

“Just make sure you take your vitamins everyday and we'll be okay,” he said winking at her.

She walked up to him saucily and ran her fingernail down his chest, not stopping until she reached his member, all the while whispering promises in his ear. By the time she was done, he was starting to get hard all over again.

He cleared his suddenly dry throat and took her hand. “We are leaving right now, because if we don't, you will not get any food until tomorrow. After what you just told me, you are going to need your energy for the rest of the weekend.”

She had the nerve to laugh all the way to the car.

And for the first time in hours, The Voice had nothing to say.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The town was as beautiful as Harry had promised it would be. After a wonderful lunch in the town's tavern, they strolled through the stores, hand in hand. Hermione bought some homemade candles, a couple of books on potions, and a few other things that she deemed useful for their new cottage. She also bought a cauldron and potion making supplies. When he asked what she needed those for, she explained that they might need all of that at the cottage for when they visited. Of course, he though smiling. Harry indulged her and carried all of the purchases to the car when she was done.

After, they continued to walk around, getting to know the place that would become their second home. As they walked by, people stared at them and smiled. They made an attractive couple and their love shined in their faces. It did not help that they would steal kisses from each other every chance they got. Hermione could not remember a time when she had been happier and Harry could not be more pleased at how their weekend was turning out.

Little did they know it would not last that much longer.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

After a while, they sat down at a café to have an afternoon cup of tea. Harry had seemed a bit preoccupied and distracted for a while and Hermione could not stand it anymore.

“Is something wrong, love? You've been quiet for a while.”

“Oh, it's nothing.”

“Lying is not something you do well, so don't even try.”

“You're going to think I'm crazy if I tell you.”

“Oh, for the love of Merlin, Harry, just tell me what it is.”

“Fine, but don't say I didn't warn you.” He took a moment to look around them and then moved closer to her. She moved closer as well, sensing his need to talk quietly. “I think someone has been following us for a while since we got into town.”

Her eyes widened as she looked at him. “What do you mean? Have you seen this person?”

“No. It is more of a feeling. Like we're being watched but the person doesn't want us to see him.”

“When did you first notice?” she asked. As she talked to him, her eyes wondered slowly around, but she did it in a way that made it seem like she was just taking in the scenery. He knew that her mind was already working overtime and plotting a course of action. He could always count on her.

“Since we sat down to eat lunch. I didn't mentioned it before, because for a while I didn't feel it anymore. Ever since we sat down again, the feeling is back.”

“Is this a `good feeling' or a `we're so screwed it isn't even funny' feeling?”

He had to laugh despite the situation. Leave it to Hermione to sum it up so simply. “I would have to say it's more like your second choice.”

She nodded and sighed deeply, resignation written all over her face. “Of course it is! Nothing is ever simple when it comes to our lives, is it?”

“And to think things have been quiet for so long. What do you want to do about it?”

“Let's take a walk and head a bit out of town. If someone is in fact following us, and things get out of hand, I don't want any innocent bystanders to get hurt.”

“You're right, of course.”

“Now I'm itching for a good fight,” she said as he watched her move her wand from her holster to the small of her back, where her t-shirt covered it.

“Itching for a fight? How come?”

“Oh, it's the photographers fault, really. When I had to deal with them last night, I realized how much I missed using my wand for more than healing. Does that sound absurd or what?”

“Not at all. I can understand more than you think. Sometimes I wonder what would have happened if I became an Auror instead of a professional quidditch player.”

“It's never too late, you know.”

“It's something to think about for sure. Let me pay and we'll head out.”

She nodded and got up from the table. She squinted her eyes and stared at the corner of a store. She could have sworn she saw someone dart back when she had looked that way.

When Harry came out of the café, she told him and they headed in that direction. They rounded the corner to find themselves facing an alley. Alleys were never good, since there was only one-way out them, she though. She looked behind her and noticed there was no one around them.

“Ready,” Harry asked taking out his wand.

She nodded as she took hers out as well. They started walking forward, staying close together. Halfway down, there was a noise behind them and before Hermione knew what was going on Harry twisted around and shouted a spell. A figure went flying against the brick wall. There was a nasty thud and the figure fell to the ground.

They ran together to that spot and pointed their wands at what they assumed was a man. He was wearing a cape that covered his face. Harry waved his wand and the man lay on his back starring up at them, panting and grimacing in obvious pain. They both caught their breath when they saw the mop of red hair.

“Ron,” they both gasped at the same time.

A/N: Oh, the pain and the horror…another cliffhanger.

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A/N: The characters and places you recognize belong to JK Rowling. Nothing is mine.

Thank you so much for the reviews. I was sitting at Starbucks, trying to keep a straight face and not laugh aloud while reading them. I am not surprised to see the confusion in some of the reviews. This chapter explains Ron's sudden emergence. As I said before, there is going to be a bit of drama in the next couple of chapters. I apologize for making you wait longer than usual to post, but I erased the chapter unknowingly, and after calling myself all kinds of names, I had to regroup and re-write it. Also, I haven't been able to go online for a few days. I hate it when than happens!

Here's chapter six. Enjoy.

The DA Reunited

“Ron, you git, I could have killed you!” Harry said exasperated, but Hermione could hear the trace of fear in his voice. That had been a narrow escape.

She got down on her knees and checked on Ron, who kept holding on to the back of his head while wincing. She removed his hand impatiently and found a small cut there. After healing it and satisfied that he was okay, she got up. Harry helped Ron up.

“What are you doing here, Ron? And why are you hiding?” Hermione asked.

“I needed to see you guys, but I didn't want to be seen,” he explained while looking around nervously. He put the hood of his cloak over his head, covering his bright hair.

“What's going on, Ron?” Harry asked beginning to think he would not like the answer.

“I can't really talk about it here,” Ron said anxiously.

“Then let's go back to the cottage so you can explain,” Hermione said.

He agreed and they went to find the car. On the way to the cottage, Ron sat on the back seat, crunched down as much as he could in the small space and never once took the cover off his head. Harry and Hermione exchange worried looks.

As Harry parked in front of the cottage, he notice one of the curtains move back into place and his foreboding increased. Hermione had also noticed and the look on her face matched his. Something bad was definitely going on if their friends felt like they had to barge in on their weekend getaway knowing what he had planned.

“Who's in there, Ron?” Harry asked, not sure he wanted to know the answer.

“You'll see soon enough. Let's get inside, please,” Ron said hurriedly.

They got out of the car and walked over to the front door. Sensing Harry's uneasiness, Hermione laced her fingers through his and gave his hand a small reassuring squeeze. Harry gave her a grateful smile and unlocked the door. When they walked in, they both gasped at the amount of people sitting or standing around their living room. It felt like they were back on fifth year and the DA was just getting started. Ron gave them a little push and closed the door behind him. Hermione heard him casting some serious locking charms on the door. Staring back at them were Ginny, Neville, Luna, Seamus, Dean, Lavender and Parvati. Fred was sitting on the couch, but they could not see him clearly since he was leaning against the armrest, and his face was buried in his arms.

“What's going on?” Harry asked as he moved closer to the group.

“Is this place safe to talk?” Ron asked.

“It will be soon,” Hermione said as she took out her wand and started casting silencing spells at the windows and doors. Ginny followed suit and started doing the same.

Hermione was in their room when she heard Ginny come in behind her. “We're so sorry to do this, Hermione. If we had another way out, we wouldn't have interrupted your weekend away with Harry. I know how much it meant to him and we feel terrible.”

“Don't worry about it, okay? We already figured something monumental must have happened in order for you guys to be here like this.”

“You're right, of course.”

When Hermione saw her eyes fill with tears, she was immediately at her side and gave her a comforting hug. “Oh, Ginny, don't cry.”

“I'm sorry,” Ginny said as she pulled back and dried her tears. “Let's go back out so we can tell you guys what's happened. We need to move on this before it's too late.”

Hermione nodded and they walked back out. When they reached the living room, she saw Harry kneeling in front of Fred, a worried expression on his face. When he heard them, he motioned her over and she quickly went. Her eyes widened when she saw his face.

“Oh, Fred! What happened to you?” she asked while her fingers touched his face tenderly. His face was covered in cuts and bruises and there was considerable swelling.

“I'm not really sure, Herms. One minute we were closing the shop, and the next thing I know I woke up like this.” He took a deep, slow breath and she knew by the look on his face just how much pain he was in.

Hermione wasted no time issuing orders.

“Harry, go out to the car and get me everything we bought today. Ginny, heat up some water and get me some clean cloths. Neville, when Harry gets back, get started on the potions.”

They all moved at once and did as she ordered without a single question or protest. She waved he wand and a hospital bed materialized out of nowhere.

“Ron and Dean help me get Fred on the bed, and carefully, since we don't know how bad his injuries are just yet.”

As they helped Fred up, Hermione noticed that he seemed to be favoring his left side. She summoned her healer's bag and started working on him as soon as he was on the bed. An hour later Fred was cleaned, bandaged, and sleeping peacefully. Ron and Dean levitated him to the loft. When they came back down, Hermione had finished cleaning up the room with the help of Seamus and Lavender. When she turned to look at the group there was a grave expression on her face.

“I want answers and I want them now. That was not the work of wizards; he was beaten by muggles. I don't know how they were able to get that close to him without Fred being able to defend himself properly and that worries me.”

“We're not sure, Hermione. A few hours ago, we got an owl from Fred, and all it said was to come to the store as soon as possible. When Luna and I got there, we found him unconscious and their store had been ransacked,” Ron explained.

“Where's George?” Harry finally asked. He had been curious about that since they had walked in and he was not there. The twins were never far from each other.

A sob escaped Ginny's mouth and Neville was immediately at her side, putting a comforting arm across her shoulders.

“We don't know, Harry. He wasn't in the shop when we got there and Fred has no idea where he can be,” Ron explained.

“Do you think he was kidnapped?” Hermione asked fearing what the answer would be.

“We think so,” Ginny said tearfully. “That's why we called everyone together. We decided to meet here since we don't know if the shop or the flats are being watched.”

“Does anyone have any idea why this happened?” Harry asked Ron.

“A couple of weeks ago, Fred and George told me they were having some problems with this man that wanted their help. They refused to go into business with him and I think this might be related to that. I'm just not sure since the guy was a muggle.”

“Did they tell you what kind of business?” Hermione asked becoming uneasy.

“Well, you know they have a line of products that look like candy but are in fact jokes, right? He wanted the twins to do something similar for them. But instead of jokes, they wanted to disguise pills and some other stuff.”

“What kinds of pills, Ron?” Hermione asked anxiously, but she was afraid she already knew the answer.

“They called them drugs.”

“Oh, Merlin,” Hermione said shaking her head and letting out the breath she had been holding when her suspicions were confirmed.

Harry and Dean also looked worried, which in turn, worried the rest of the group.

“Is it that bad?” Ron asked when he saw their faces.

“It's terrible, Ron. Drugs are awful, and they're also illegal in the muggle world. If they wanted to make them look like candy and the twins refused, you can bet they have George and they're going to try to make him do as they want,” Dean told them.

“He's right, and if he refuses to help, he could be in grave danger. These people don't play around,” Harry added.

Hermione was pacing, wriggling her hands as she did so. “It's an excellent plan, when you think about it. If they are able to make the drugs look like regular candy, they won't have any trouble smuggling them from one country to another, and no one would even be suspicious. They would be able to sell them anywhere. The ramifications of this would be too numerous to count.”

“And they would get filthy rich,” Dean continued. “It's the perfect plan, only Fred and George refused to help.”

“What in Merlin's name are drugs?” Lavender wanted to know.

Hermione explained quickly and that only seemed to worry the group even more.

“It's settled then!” Ron said. “We're going to find out who did this and then we're going to go and rescue George before it's too late and they hurt him worse than Fred. Where do we start?”

“We have to divide into groups and search for information. Since Dean, Harry, and I have a muggle upbringing, we will look in London. The rest will divide between their two stores to search for information. Maybe they left something behind that can help us find them faster. But we need to start right now,” Hermione said and everyone nodded.

That is, everyone but Harry.

“We sounds like too many people,” Harry said looking pointedly at her.

“What do you mean?” she asked him.

“Dean and I will go. You are not going into drug-infested areas of London. It's too dangerous. I won't be able to do my job and worry about you at the same time.” His tone left no room for argument.

He should have known better.

“Did you just tell me what to do?” she asked cocking her head to the side and raising an eyebrow.

“Yes. You can stay here and we will communicate back and forth. You can be the brains of the operation and be out of danger at all times. You can even get your laptop, go online, and hack into police files. Maybe you can find something that can help us there,” he said while looking at her, satisfaction with his plan shining in his eyes.

“I will do no such thing! I am going and you're not going to tell me otherwise,” she finished hotly.

“No, you're not. Be reasonable, Hermione, I'm not letting you go and that's final.”

He turned to look at his friends and noticed they were all looking at them with a mixture of surprise and fascination on their faces. They had been watching their argument with their heads moving back and forth, as if watching a heated tennis match.

Hermione, however, was so mad that red sparks were flying off the tip of her wand. When their friends saw this, they all stepped back as if looking for cover. Harry noticed their actions and turned around. He gulped slowly when he saw the wand and then her face.

“I want to speak to you alone. NOW!”

She walked in the direction of their room without waiting for his answer.

As he was about to follow her, Ron's words stopped him.

“Are you daft?” he asked surprised. “How could you humiliate her like that, Harry? Now she's going to have to kill you and we'll be a man short before we even get started.”

“Real cute, Ron,” Harry said, but his gaze moved nervously down the hall.

“He's right, you know. Hermione is independent and strong. You should know that by now,” Ginny said. “She's going to have your insensitive arse and she has every right to do so!”

“She's always been by your side, and has saved your arse more times than I can remember. You were completely out of line,” Luna added.

Harry felt like shit. Knowing his friends were right, he went down the hallway, feeling worst than he had when he had faced the Wizengamot in his fifth year. He would even take facing a dragon over facing the wrath of Hermione.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

She was pacing when he walked into their room. Before he could move any closer to her or open his mouth to apologize, she pointed an accusing finger at him.

“Don't you ever speak to me like that again, Harry James Potter. You have no right to tell me what I can and cannot do. Our friend is in danger and I am not about to waste my time arguing with you about this. I am going to London, and we're going to bring George back safe and sound.”

“Yes, Hermione,” he said when she took a breath. “But, I -“

“But nothing, Harry. We are going to go out back there, and we are going to plan how to do this tonight. I don't want any arguments from you, and we're going to pretend this never happened. But hear this, you git, If you try anything to stop me from going, I will have your arse. Do you understand me?” she asked furiously, her eyes flashing with fire.

“Yes, Hermione.”

“Good.” Without saying another word, she stormed out of the room and he followed meekly.

As bad as he felt about the whole situation, he couldn't help thinking that he was so turned on by her it wasn't even funny. He rather liked it when Hermione lost her cool.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

When they walked into the living room, Hermione went over to the dining room table and expanded it. She waved her wand again and parchment, writing materials, and some sort of equipment appeared.

“Now that Mr. Potter and I have come to an understanding, let's plan what we're going to do quickly in order to leave.”

They all looked at her with admiration on their faces, and some even sniggered at Harry. He chose to ignore that and sat down. Ron walked over to the table and picked up a small object as everyone started sitting around.

“What's this, Hermione?” he asked curiously, as he turned the object around.

“It's a two-way radio. Instead of communicating by owls, we are going to communicate using those. They are charmed to work anywhere and our conversations will be private at all times.”

“Have I told you lately how brilliant I think you are?” he said smiling.

“Thank you, Ron.” She handed a radio to Ginny, another to Lavender, and one to Harry. “We're going to divide into teams. Neville, Ginny, and Seamus will go to the shop that was ram shacked. Ron, Luna, and Parvati will go to the other store and their flat. Harry, Dean and I will go to London. Lavender can stay here with Fred in case he needs something. Is that fair?” she asked looking around the table. They all nodded their agreement.

Harry and Dean showed the rest of the group how to use the radios. After formulating a plan of action, the first two groups left and Lavender went up to the loft.

“I'm going to go change into jeans and then we can leave,” Hermione told Harry and Dean and walked in the direction of their room.

Dean looked at Harry and nodded towards the room. Harry understood his message and went after her. When he walked into the room, she had taken off her clothes and he took a moment to admire her.

Remembering the situation they were in, he quickly stripped off his clothes and went to the closet to find his own pair of jeans.

She dressed quickly and sat on the bed to put on her sneakers. He took that chance to speak.

“I'm sorry about what I said before, love. I know I was out of place and I shouldn't have acted like that.”

“I know why you did it, Harry, and I understand more than you know. But we have been fighting side by side for years now and it's never been an issue.”

“It's a bit different now, Hermione. We're a couple now.”

“We made love and we love each other, and as much as you want to protect me, you can't. You have to trust that I can take care of myself, okay?” she said as she got up and strapped her wand holster to her thigh. She tapped it once and it became invisible. When she put her wand in, it disappeared from view as well.

Harry copied her moved and they were ready. She walked up to him and hugged him tightly. She dropped a quick, conciliatory kiss on his lips and stepped back.

“Let's go before it's too late, okay? We will finish this conversation when this is over.”

“You're right, of course.”

He took her hand and they walked out to the living room. Without another word, the three of them apparated to a secluded street in Central London.

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A/N: Everything you recognize belongs to JK Rowling. The plot of this story, however, is mine.

Thanks for the reviews; they're lovely and much appreciated.

Not what you expected, eh? And here you all thought Ron had come to rain on the parade. There are more OOC parts in this chapter, but I think by know you know I like to raise eyebrows. And don't pretend like you haven't done similar things with your girlfriends at some point. You'll see what I mean towards the end of the chapter. Girl power can be intoxicating, don't you think? *wink wink*

As far as cutting their weekend short, well, I kind of understand. I know that when we are experiencing love with a new person, it's difficult to spend time away from each other. But when a friend is in need, you have to be able to be there as well. Love and true friendships are what really makes this world a better place…but enough with the sentimentalities, here's chapter 7.

The Search For George

They landed in a dark street and waited for their eyes to adjust to the dimness. Their hands were close to their wands in case they needed them right away. Harry made contact with the other teams to check on their whereabouts. Ginny, Neville, and Seamus were going over the twins shop in Diagon Alley trying to find anything that would help them get a better idea of where in London the attackers could be. Ron, Luna, and Parvati were doing the same at Hogsmeade.

Harry, Hermione, and Dean walked down the street, trying to figure out what was the best way to find the drug dealers that would take them to George. They were sure he was being kept in London, and not close to any of their shops.

“I've been thinking about the situation, guys, and muggles and wizards have to be working together on this. Or at least, someone that's a muggle but went to Hogwarts like us. How else would you explain the fact that they were able to go into town and their shop?” Dean said.

“You're absolutely right, Dean!” Hermione said excitedly. “That explains a lot. The one thing that really bothers me is how they were able to get that close to the twins and inflict so much pain without the twins being able to defend themselves. Something here doesn't add up.”

“Do you think they might have been drugged somehow?” Dean asked worriedly. “Muggle drugs would probably wreak havoc on their bodies, and if they didn't know what was going on, they wouldn't be able to do anything to reverse it.”

“I'm thinking it was an inside job. Someone working in the store was giving the outsiders information. They could have also put drugs in their food or drink and the twins never noticed,” Harry added.

“Were they having problems with any of their employees?” Hermione asked.

“Not that I know. But someone they trusted betrayed them and we need to find out whom. I'm going to call the others and have them go through the employee files. If we can narrow it down to those with a muggle background, it might be easier to find the culprit. And if we find the culprit, we'll find the drug lord.”

“Tell Ron and his team to meet Ginny at that store. I'm sure everything happened in Diagon Alley and if they're all there working, maybe they can find something sooner,” Hermione suggested.

Harry did as she asked and the teams agreed with their theories. It felt as if they were getting a little closer to the truth. It wasn't much, but it was something to give them a bit of hope.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Harry,” came Ginny's excited voice over the radio a little over an hour later. “We found a business card with a London address, and it has some numbers written on the back. Some guy named Rudolph Jones.”

“Rudolph Jones, you say?” asked Dean frowning. “Are you sure Ginny?”

“Yes, Dean. The card was in the rubbish bin, so we figured it might mean something since it looked like it had been crumpled up.”

Dean looked at Harry and Hermione and shook his head. Before speaking again, he motioned for Harry to turn off the radio.

“Give us one second, Ginny, we'll get right back with you,” Hermione said before Harry did as Dean asked.

“Listen, this Jones guy is dangerous. He owns half of the city's nightclubs and bars. Very heavy into trafficking and underworld mafia. This isn't going to be easy.”

“How do you know all of that?” Harry asked surprised and worried by what his friend had just said. No wonder he didn't want the others to know.

“I have a cousin that's a captain with the muggle police and he told me about this guy not long ago. We were watching the telly and there were some breaking news about one of the clubs getting raided by Special Forces. They found all kinds of drugs and it was a big mess.”

“How come he isn't in jail, then?” Hermione wanted to know.

“He has a lot of clout and money. He gets away with everything and no one has been able to prove anything just yet. My cousin is itching to get him, but there is nothing to tie him to the clubs. They're all under bogus company names and nothing is traceable. He knows what he is doing.”

“Well, I say his time is about up. He's going to go down for doing this to the twins,” Harry said. “Can you call your cousin and have him meet us somewhere close?”

“Gladly. I'm sure he'll be more than happy to help out and get this scum off the streets of London for good.”

Harry turned the radio back on. “Ginny, you're a genius! That person probably has George. We're going to meet with someone shortly and as soon as we have more information, we'll let you guys know.”

“Harry,” Ron called out.

“Yes, Ron.”

“I want to be there when the time comes to actually get George out.”

“Don't worry, mate. From the sound of things, we're going to need all of you in London. Give us a couple of hours at the most and we'll tell you were to apparate to.”

“Harry's right,” Hermione said to the group. “I think it's best if you go back to the cottage when you're done at the shop and wait for news there. That way you can all apparate together.”

There were choruses of agreement and then Harry disconnected the call.

Dean called his cousin and they decided to meet at a café that was close to one of the clubs.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ron was going through the employee files, but so far he'd found nothing useful. Ginny and the others were trying to put the store back in order. Why notify the authorities when they could handled it themselves, Ron thought smiling. They would want to take charge and that wouldn't get them anywhere.

As he was nearing the end of the pile on the desk, a file caught his attention. The employee's name was Robert Bondelli and he had been working at the store for about three months. What grabbed Ron's attention was that this guy lived in London and there were several reprimand notices on his file. Apparently, he was late and absent a lot.

Ron put the file aside and finished going through the rest quickly. When he was done, he grabbed the file on Bondelli and headed back out to the shop. He spotted Ginny and Neville finishing a display and walked over to them.

“I think I found our guy. Ginny, get everyone back to the cottage when you finish here and be ready to apparate to London at any moment. Neville, why don't you come with me?”

“All right, mate.” He kissed Ginny softly and he and Ron dissaparated.

Ginny told the others, and after finishing the clean-up quickly, they all went back to the cottage. Lavender gave them the good news that Fred seemed to be improving nicely and had even asked for something to eat. Ginny smiled in relief and went to see him.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ron and Neville apparated close to Bondelli's flat. It wasn't in a nice part of town either. They started walking down the street and reached the flat in no time. It was dark and they approached slowly.

“Do you think he's home?” Neville asked looking around them, checking to make sure no one had seen them yet.

“Doesn't look like it. Let's go through the back and see if we can break in.”

Neville nodded and they went slowly around the back. He tried the door and it was locked. He tapped it with his wand and it unlocked easily. They walked in quietly and crossed the small kitchen. As they walked into the living room, they stopped dead in their tracks. Someone was laying asleep on the sofa.

Ron nodded at Neville and then walked over to the sofa and Neville went to check the rest of the flat. He came back a moment later and showed Ron several packets of the twin's trademark candy jokes. Ron needed no more proof at that point. He grabbed the man roughly by the throat and brought him up to a sitting position. The man was clearly startled and stared at Ron in fear and disbelief.

“One funny move on your part and I will make sure you regret it for the rest of your sorry life,” he said tightening his hold on the man's throat and pointing his wand between his eyes.

“I would suggest you start talking, and soon. In case you haven't noticed by the red hair, you're dealing with a Weasley and he's pretty pissed right now,” Neville suggested as he sat down and leaned back smiling.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Not far from where Ron was at the moment, the others were sitting around a table, sipping coffee while Dean's cousin filled them in on the information he had on Jones.

Hermione was taking notes as usual and asking questions that made things easier.

“Phillip, what does he like? What are some of his weaknesses? Where does he hang out?”

“Oh, that's an easy one, Hermione. He loves booze and women and he can have both daily. He has one club that's really high class and there's a private VIP area. He's there every night, surrounded by beautiful women and lots of liquor.”

“It's settled then,” she said as she put the notepad away.

“What's settled?” Harry asked nervously. He didn't like the look on her face.

“We're going to that club, and the girls and I will get invited to the VIP area. Once we know he's been drinking heavily, we'll get information out of him.”

“Absolutely not!” he said angrily.

She looked at him and raised her famous eyebrow. “We had this conversation already, Harry James. Don't you remember?” she asked in a falsely sweet voice.

Dean just shook his head and smiled at his cousin.

“Actually, that could work,” Phillip said looking carefully between the two lovers.

“I think Hermione has the perfect plan, Harry. What better way to find George quicker than to go directly to the source?” added Dean.

“I faced Voldemort at your side. I have risked my neck more times than I care to remember at your side. Thankfully, we've always come out on top. This is no different and it seems crazy that you don't trust me by now,” she said looking straight into his emerald eyes.

He knew when he was defeated. He would have to go along with their idea.

“I'm going in with you,” he said leaving no room for argument. Really, he thought, at some point he had to get something to go his way when it came to Hermione's stubborn nature.

She leaned over and gave him a quick kiss on the lips. “I wouldn't have it any other way!”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Ron made contact with them a few minutes later and told him about Robert. Phillip asked them to meet them at the café and a few minutes later, Ron walked in followed by a sullen looking Robert and Neville.

“Talk,” was all Phillip said after showing Robert his batch. Robert's eyes widened in surprise when he saw it and sat down knowing he was screwed.

While they talked, Hermione excused herself and went to call Ginny. After explaining the plan, they decided to leave Seamus and Parvati with Fred and the rest would meet them outside the café in half an hour. Ginny agreed to bring the things Hermione had requested.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The four of them walked into the club and immediately drew the attention of the male crowd. Harry, Ron, Neville and Dean were already sitting at the bar, trying to blend in. Phillip was parked in a van close by, listening to their conversations and recording everything. Several of them were wearing wires under their clothing. Hermione had made sure to charm them to make them untraceable. Robert was under the custody of Phillip's partner and giving them quite a bit of information thanks to the Veritaserum Hermione had given him.

Dean noticed the girls and pointed towards them with his head. Harry, Ron and Neville turned around and their mouths fell slightly open.

“When did they have time to do that?” Ron wondered amazed.

“Bloody hell,” was all Harry said as he took the group in.

“They look amazing,” Dean whispered. “Is Lavender seeing anyone right now?

“Not that I've heard,” Neville said smiling as he looked at Ginny.

“Dressed like that, Jones won't waste anytime requesting their presence at his VIP area,” Ron said as he looked over to where Jones was sitting. He had seen the girls as well and was already speaking to one of his bodyguards.

The girls walked over to the dance floor and started moving in time with the music, attracting even more looks. Two blondes, a brunette and a redhead all dressed in skintight dresses were hard to miss. They made a strikingly beautiful group. Harry asked for a shot of tequila and drowned it quickly.

Damn it all to bloody hell, he thought. He wanted the night to end as quickly as possible. He wanted Hermione out of there and away from the lustful looks she was getting.

Ron patted his shoulder and smiled. “She knows how to take care of herself, you git. Stop acting like a caveman. She's going to get into a right state if she sees you acting up,” he said as he took a sip of his beer.

“I know, but I can't help it, Ron. I love her and I don't want anything bad to happen to her.”

“Then you should have fallen for someone like my mother, who is happy being at home taking care of the family and the house. Hermione is much too independent for that. Get over it or she's going to get over you rather quick!”

“Easier said than done, mate. But I know you're right. I'm acting like a right idiot.”

“I couldn't agree more,” Neville said looking at them. “Look at them, Harry. We all fell in love with beautiful, independent and headstrong women. I for one wouldn't change it for the world.”

Harry knew he wouldn't either.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Hermione moved closer to Ginny as they were dancing. To any onlookers, it looked like they were more than friends. To them, it was merely an excuse to be able to talk without being overheard. To the guys, it looked hot as hell. Luna and Lavender were doing something similar, but not as close.

“I think he noticed us,” Ginny said moving in rhythm with Hermione.

“You're right. His bodyguard is moving this way,” Hermione said. She caught Lavender's attention and motioned slowly with her head towards the approaching man. Lavender winked in understanding.

“Showtime,” Ginny whispered and then moved behind Hermione and got as close to her as possible without raising any more eyebrows.

Hermione moved her arm up and hooked it behind Ginny's neck, bringing her closer as Ginny put her hands possessively around Hermione's waist. The bodyguard stopped in front of them and looked at them appreciatively.

“Hi, handsome,” Hermione all but purred. “Want to dance with us?”

Luna and Lavender moved closer to the group and danced around him. He smiled at them. “I would love nothing more than to dance with you beautiful ladies, but my boss has requested your company at the VIP area.”

“But we just got here,” Luna said pouting. “Why doesn't he come over here to dance a bit?”

“Yes, that would be lovely! Tell him to come over here and then we'll go and sit with him.” She looked over at Jones and waved at him coquettishly.

“He doesn't usually dance,” he said surprised at their boldness. No one ever said no to his boss and he wasn't sure what to do.

“Then tell him we will be over there after we dance a couple of more songs, okay?” Ginny said winking at him and turning Hermione around in her arms. He was clearly dismissed.

He walked away slowly, unable to hide the surprise in his face.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“What in the bloody hell do they think they're doing?” Harry asked exasperated when the bodyguard walked away by himself.

“I think they're all brilliant!” Ron exclaimed with a huge smile. “Don't you see? They're enticing him even more by playing hard to get,” he finished looking at Neville and Dean for confirmation. They nodded, but went right back to watching them. It was hard not too.

“When did you get so smart about women, anyways?” Harry asked him surprised.

“Ginny is my sister. Do you think I would get to this age and not be well trained?”

“Right.”

Harry couldn't tear his eyes away from them either. Did it make him a sick bastard to be turned on by their dancing, he wondered. He'd never seen Hermione dancing that way, let alone with another woman. Even if that woman was her very best female friend. They looked so hot together it was all he could do not to get up there and join them.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A couple of songs later, Ginny asked Hermione if she was ready to go over and meet Jones. Hermione nodded and they stopped dancing. As they walked away from the dance floor, Luna and Lavender followed.

They reached the VIP area and smiled coquettishly at Jones. He got up and waited for them to sit around him. He asked for a bottle of champagne to be brought over and the server left immediately.

“I was beginning to wonder if you would accept my invitation after all,” he told them in a suave voice as his gaze moved over all of them appreciatively.

His gaze lingered a little too long on certain body parts and they smiled at him trying not to squirm in their chairs. It was all Hermione could do not to hex him on the spot. The look she exchanged with Ginny told her she felt the same way. Then she remembered they were there for one reason and one reason only. George was in imminent danger and they had to move quickly.

The champagne arrived and Hermione wondered if it could be spiked with something. They all exchanged glanced while Jones was preoccupied with serving them. When he handed each of them a glass and offered a clichéd toast, they raised their glasses and clinked them with his. Hermione smiled and murmured a charm under her breath, making the champagne in their four glasses safe. When he put his glass down without taking a sip, she was glad she had done the charm. The little weasel thought he'd be able to drug them!

She was more determined than ever to finish their job quickly and raised her charisma a few notches. Her friends noticed and did the same. Lavender went as far as sitting closer to him and laying her hand on his thigh. He sucked in his breath when she moved her hand higher still while asking him what he did for a living.

Hermione winked approvingly at her. Within minutes, they had him under their spell. He ordered some whiskey and drank deeply while Lavender whispered in his ear. Hermione could see there was a bulge growing steadily in his pants.

After he had drunk quite a bit and was beginning to feel it, Lavender ran her fingers close to his erection and up his chest. “Is there somewhere private where we can all be alone, sugar?”

“Alone? Me and the four of you?” he asked smiling widely.

“Yes, just you and the four of us?” Luna asked looking over at his bodyguards.

“I have an office upstairs. Will that do?”

“That would be lovely,” Ginny said and winked at him.

She had been sitting close to Hermione, playing with her hair and whispering in her ear. He had missed none of it and seemed turned on by it. Little did he know they were planning his downfall the entire time.

“Lead the way,” Hermione said as she laced her fingers through Ginny's and got up.

He was more than happy to oblige. He went over to his bodyguards and said something quietly to them. They frowned a bit but nodded. Then he led them up a set of private stairs that were close to the VIP area. The girls followed giggling and acting like they were having the time of their lives.

When they walked into his office, he closed the door and locked it. His bodyguards would stand guard on the outside of the door to make sure they weren't disturbed. His office was opulent and richly decorated. They walked around admiring everything and complimenting him on his taste. He walked over to the bar and started serving each of them drinks. The girls exchanged glanced and nodded.

He turned around and started handing out drinks. When they didn't drink right away, he smiled at them. “Come on now, drink up and let's party!”

“See that's the problem with you men,” Hermione said smiling sweetly at him. “You see beautiful women and assume we're all daft or easy. What did you put in our drinks this time, Rudolph?”

He paled considerably at the use of his first name. He took a step towards the door but Luna raised the wand she had been holding behind her back and pointed it at him. Whatever color he had left on his face disappeared. He obviously knew what the wand was.

“Who are you people?” he asked desperately looking at the door.

“Haven't you noticed yet, you silly bastard? We're known as the DA and we're here to rescue my brother,” Ginny said before she stunned him and he fell unconscious to the ground.

She smiled in satisfaction.

“Let's move to part B,” Hermione said moving around Jones and heading straight for his desk.

-->

A/N: Everything you recognize belongs to JK Rowling. Would I be writing this otherwise?

Thanks for the reviews. You guys rock. I wanted to dedicate this chapter to LianLeviathan who `gave a kind of strangled yelp when I reached the end of this chapter and co-workers were asking if I was ok' for reading this at work and not getting in trouble. Thanks!

I had to laugh at one of the reviews. Someone asked (quite sarcastically, of course) what the costumes looked like for the “Wonder Witches”, and would they have a secret cave to meet and “primp” each other up before going out to fight crime. That was hilarious, so thanks for the laughs!! But, no, (sorry to disappoint) there are no Wonder Witches; and I'll leave the cave to Batman and Robin. (Maybe I'll save the name and write some sort of Saturday Night Live type of parody!) Oh, and it also mentions that men can also be strong and why were they sitting at the bar? TEAM work pretty much works that way, and not everyone can be doing something useful at the same time. Not sure if Rudolph would have fallen for the boys dancing close together (OMG, now that image in forever printed on my mind, and to quote Phoebe from “Friends” `Oh, my eyes, my eyes')

So, without further ado, here's chapter 8, and the Wonder Wizards, ahem, I mean the DA gentlemen will see more action in this one.

The Rescue

Harry felt the Snitch charm on his neck warm up. He touched it with his fingers and lowered his head to his chest. “Phillip, the girls have managed to put Rudolph down. We're moving in. Give us another half-hour and we'll figure a way to let you in through the back. Be ready with your men to move.”

Ron noticed he was speaking quietly. “Is it done?”

“Yes, he's down. Let's move.”

He nodded and they got up from the bar. Neville and Dean would follow in a few minutes so it wouldn't look suspicious. There were also a couple of Special Forces officers in the club. Harry nodded lightly at them as they passed them by.

Everything was in motion now, and he was hoping to get to George in the next hour or so. He wanted nothing more than to rescue him and take Hermione back home. There was so much he wanted to do to her body she wouldn't be able to get up for days! The thought of having her in his arms again made his blood pressure go up. George's kidnapping had sure cut short his weekend plans and he was ready to make someone pay for it. How dare they interrupt something he had wanted for so long?

“You okay, mate?” Ron asked worriedly when he saw the strange look on his friends face.

“Sorry. My mind was elsewhere for a moment. Everything's fine.”

Ron nodded as they reached the stairs. They saw Neville and Dean heading their way. The two officers weren't far behind. When the group was together, Harry looked around them to make sure they weren't being watched.

“I'm going to go up first. Give me just one minute and then follow me. I'm going to stun the guards and then I'll need help moving them into the office.”

The rest of the group nodded, and although the officers weren't really sure Harry could take out the huge guards on his own, they didn't voice a protest. Phillip had told them these guys were some sort of special force that dealt a lot different than theirs and not to be surprised by what they saw tonight. They had even signed a contract stating that if they talked about what they saw, they would lose their jobs and licenses. They were both married with kids and were in no hurry to mess up their careers by talking too much.

Harry walked up the stairs and noticed the two guards leaning against the balcony rail, looking down at the mass of moving bodies below. Harry approached quietly and was close to them before they noticed.

“Hey, this part of the club is off limits, so get lost, punk,” the bigger one said rudely.

“I'm sorry, but I was told the bathroom was up here,” Harry said innocently.

“They told you wrong. It's downstairs, towards the back of the club,” the other guard said in a polite voice, looking sideways at his partner.

“Okay. Sorry to disturb you mates! I'll be on my way.” Harry said and turned to leave. Then he turned back around and smiled at them. “Before I go though, I'd like to get my girlfriend out of that office there,” he said pointing at the door behind them.

Both guards were now standing up and walking towards him. “I said to get lost,” the bigger one said flexing his hands.

“Fine, then, have it your way.” He lifted his hand and waved it at him. He fell to the ground immediately.

“What the fuck did you just do?” asked the other one looking at his partner laying on the floor and starting to back away.

“The same thing I'm going to do to you if you don't start talking right away. Seems like your boss had one of my very good friends kidnapped, and another beat up. I didn't appreciate that much. Now you're going to tell me where he is or I'm going to hurt you,” Harry said as he moved closer to the man.

“And he's not alone,” Harry heard Ron say behind him.

The guard looked behind Harry and gulped when he saw the rest of them. He pulled a gun out of a holster inside his jacked but before he could do something with it, Ron lifted his wand and the gun snapped out of the guy's hand. Ron then made the gun turn around in the air and point directly at the guards head. His eyes widened in fear and he fell to his knees, shaking all over.

“I'll tell you all you need to know, but don't kill me please,” he begged.

Ron made the gun move his way and handed it to one of the officers with them. “Here, you can have this as evidence.”

Harry was smiling at the look on their faces. “Phillip did tell you we work differently, didn't he?”

They nodded. “Yeah, he just didn't explain exactly what that meant.”

“We're wizards, and we work with wands and magic. We don't hurt anyone unless we really have to. We've been part of the DA, or special force as Phillip said, since we were fifteen,” Harry explained proudly. Merlin, but he had missed the excitement of the hunt! How was he going to go back to playing quidditch after this? he wondered for a moment.

“You have two choices,” Ron said to them. “You can keep what you see tonight a secret, or we can modify your memory and you won't remember a thing. You choose.”

“Relax, buddy, we have no intention of losing our jobs over this. I don't care how you do it as long as we can get Jones in jail for good.”

“Wise choice,” Neville told them as he moved towards Harry. “Let's get these goons inside and get George. I'd like to enjoy the rest of the weekend if you don't mind!”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Have you heard anything more,” Fred asked Parvati as he tried to sit up. Seamus got up from his chair and helped him.

“Not yet, Fred. The last thing we heard was that they knew who was behind this and were going to some club.”

“Looks like your employee Robert Bondelli was involved in this also,” Seamus told him.

“That little rat's arse,” Fred said angrily. “I knew he was trouble. I kept telling George we needed to get rid of him. He was acting strange the past couple of days and it made me uneasy.”

“From what Harry explained, he must have drugged you and George in order to put you down like that.”

“I'm going to kick his arse! How dare he!”

“Now, calm down, Fred. They have everything under control over there. Bondelli's in custody already and he's cooperating with authorities. It won't be long before they find George.” Parvati waved her wand and a tray with tea and biscuits appeared on a small table by the bed.

“I want to go help,” Fred said suddenly.

“You're too weak,” Parvati said as she handed him a cup of tea.

“She's right, mate, you have to rest. Besides, they're also working with the muggle Special Forces.”

“I feel better,” Fred insisted and tried to get up. His head started spinning immediately. Parvati grabbed the cup from his hand before he spilled the hot liquid on himself and Seamus helped him settled back down on the bed.

“See?” she said politely.

“Fred, can you still communicate with George mentally?” Seamus asked. “Maybe if you can reach him, and reassure him help is on the way, he'll feel a bit better and so will you.”

“That's a great idea, Fred. Maybe you can ask him to give you a description of his surroundings and how many people are with him. That way the others will be prepared,” Parvati suggested.

“You're right! Why didn't I think of that before,” Fred said excitedly as he closed his eyes and focused all of his energy into making contact with his brother.

“Fred?” came the weak response.

“Of course, you git! Who else would be able to poke around in that big head of yours?” he asked smiling and heard George chuckle.

“Where are you?” George asked worriedly a moment later.

“In Harry's and Hermione's cottage with Parvati and Seamus. I'm fine, don't worry about me. It's you we're worried about. Harry and the DA are on this, bro, and they're going to find you soon,” Fred said reassuringly.

“I'm glad to hear that. It's cold in here and I don't have a jacket. And my head feels like it's going to explode.”

“Where are you?”

“Not sure, Fred. Some sort of lab. I guess they think I'm going to make the drugs into candy here, but they have another thing coming.”

“Are you hurt?”

“Oh, you mean besides the black eyes, the cut lip, and the aches and pains all over?”

“Damn that Robert Bondelli. I'm really going to kick his sorry arse for doing this.”

“He's in on this? Why, that little weasel! How do you know?”

Fred filled him in as much as he could. “Are there a lot of people with you?”

“Quite a few, but most are wearing white robes, so I'm assuming they work here. But there's also some guys walking in and out of the building and they are armed.”

“Can you tell how many? I want to let Harry know.”

“At least six, but there could be more.”

“Are you free or do they have you tied down?”

“I'm inside some sort of room, but they took my wand. You know I've never quite gotten good at wandless magic.”

“That's okay. You know Harry and Hermione are the only ones that are really good at it. Oh, by the way, they finally got together this weekend! Figures this would happen and interrupt their weekend away,” Fred said and laughed.

“Oh, fuck, Harry is going to be hurting someone bad! The poor chap has been pinning after her for years and I'm sure he was tired of the many cold showers he took. Oh, yeah, these guys are going down!” George said laughing as well.

“As much as I'm enjoying this chat, I have to get in touch with Harry, George. As soon as I know more, I'll contact you again. Keep safe, okay? I love you, bro,” Fred finished with sentiment.

“I love you too, you big baboon! I'll see you soon,”

Fred wiped a small tear that escaped the corner of his eye and Seamus and Parvati pretended not to notice.

“How is he?” she asked when she was sure Fred had composed himself.

“He's cold, but seems to be doing okay.” Fred filled him in on the rest.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Hermione heard the door opening and looked up from her position behind the desk, where she was going through some files. They had found a safe hidden under some lose planks on the floor and had opened it to reveal the evidence they needed against Jones.

Harry walked in and smiled sweetly at her. He came over to her side of the desk and pulled her up. Without giving her time to speak, and not caring that their friends were there, he kissed her passionately. It was the whistles and catcalls that finally made him pull away. He smiled when he noticed she was slightly dazed.

“Missed you,” he said simply.

“Mmm, I think I'm going to go away a bit more often if that's the reaction it has on you,” she said finally in control of herself.

“Oh, no, you won't. When this is over, I'm not letting you out of my sight for months!”

Ron cleared his throat. “If the lovebirds are done, can we get on with this?”

Harry smiled at her before turning around. He noticed that the girls had tied Rudolph to a chair and he was still out. Ginny and Luna were going over some papers on the couch and Lavender was searching through a file cabinet in one corner.

“Did you find what Phillip needs?”

“Yes! The evidence was hidden on a safe under the floorboards. That's why they didn't find it before. But everything is here and there's no way he'll get away with it now,” Hermione told him proudly.

“I'm going to get Phillip in here and let his guys handle this part. We need to get George.”

“You're right. Here, hand him this as well,” Hermione said handing him some folded papers.

“What it is, love?”

“The papers he will need to conduct a legal search of the premises. I figured if he didn't have that, Jones would get out on a mere technicality and we can't let that happen,” she explained.

“You really are a genius, Mione.” He said looking at her proudly.

“So I've been told all my life!” she joked.

“And a comedian to boot!” Ron said smiling at her. She winked at him and went back to the files.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Harry handed the papers to Phillip at the back door and he looked surprised. “When did you find time to get a judge to sign these at this hour?”

“I didn't. Hermione pulled them out of thin air,” he said and smiled at the man.

“Is it legal? Will it hold up in court?”

“Hermione never does anything unless it's perfect. If she says it will work, it will. She's just good like that. Remember she was brought up as a muggle and she know how the system works on both ends.”

“I can't believe this! You have no idea what this means, mate.”

“We're going to leave all of this in your capable hands, Phillip. We're going with one of the guards to where they have George. Once we get him out, you can raid that place as well.”

“Sounds like a plan.” He turned around and gave his officers instructions. Then they followed Harry back into the club.

They attracted a lot of attention as they walked in. When a couple of bouncers approached them flexing their muscles, Phillip wiped out his batch and they stopped. They knew better at that point. While some officers started working on getting the people out and the staff into one place for questioning, Harry and Phillip walked up the stairs.

By then, the other guard had been moved inside and was leaning against a wall, his hands tied behind his back. His face still registered surprise. Rudolph Jones was just beginning to stir. When he opened his eyes, he started cursing and asking questions at once. He was beyond mad.

Ron walked up to him and slapped him with the back of his hand a couple of times. “Shut it, you fuck. Tell me where my brother is?”

“Go to hell,” Jones said furiously.

Ron took a deep breath and started to turn around. Before Jones could react, Ron turned right back around and punched him so hard that the chair toppled backwards. Dean and Neville put the chair back up and Neville slapped the back of Jones's head hard. Jones was bleeding profusely from his nose.

“You broke my nose, you arse,” he screamed.

Ron got close enough that their noses were almost touching. “Listen to me, Jones. I'm going to break every bone in your body if you don't tell me where George is.”

“I'm not telling you shit.”

Ron grabbed him by his hair and pulled his head back, feeling satisfaction when Jones gasped in pain. “Hermione, give him the serum before I kill him,” Ron said calmly.

She walked over to him with a small bottle in her hand. Ron forced Jones mouth open as Hermione opened the bottle. She poured a bit of the liquid into Jones's mouth and Ron closed it before he had a chance to spit it out. Within seconds his demeanor changed.

“Now, you fuck, tell me what you did with George.”

Phillip was amazed at how quickly Jones started to tell them everything.

“Here,” Hermione said as she handed him a tape recorder she had transformed from one of the radios. “You need all the evidence you can get. And for the record, we saw him attack first and that's how he ended with a bloody nose. The last thing you need is a charge of police brutality on your hands.”

“You guys are nothing short of amazing. I'm going to forever be in your debt.”

“Someday you might have to help us out with something, so don't worry about it.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

While they interrogated Jones, Parvati made contact with them. Fred told them about his conversation with George.

“We're heading their way now. We just got the address out of Jones. Make sure to let George know it won't be long now,” Harry told him.

“Thanks mate. You have no idea how much I appreciate this,”

“You would do the same for me,” Harry said and disconnected the call.

Harry walked over to the guard that had cooperated with them so far. “I want you to take all of us to this lab where they're keeping our friend.”

He nodded and looked around in apprehension.

“You saw what happened to Jones, so I hope you're smarter and cooperate,” Luna told him sweetly. “When my boyfriend gets mad, there's no telling what he'll do. It's the red hair and his mother's blood. Quite a combination if you ask me!” she finished giggling.

They all smiled at her as they gathered their things and started walking out of the office.

“I think we should change before heading out,” Hermione said as they descended the stairs.

“Why?” Harry asked giving her body a slow once-over. “I think you look fantastic.”

“Be that as it may, these are hardly the clothes to do a rescue in. Charlie's Angels we're not.”

“Who are they?” Ginny asked coming behind her. “I've never heard of them before.”

“Oh, sorry. It's a muggle show that was later made into two movies. I'll have to show you sometime.”

“Sounds good. But she's right, Harry. We can't very well go on a rescue mission wearing mini-dresses and high heels.”

“Fine, go in the van and change quickly before we go. But you only have five minutes.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

They came out of the van later, and Harry had to look at them in amazement. They still made a striking group dressed in skintight jeans and t-shirts. Their wands were strapped at their thighs and their hair had been pulled back into ponytails. Hermione was wrong, he though, Charlie's Angels had nothing on them!

“We're ready,” she said looking at the guard. “Let's go.”

“We can take the limo on the back. No one would suspect if we arrive that way. I'll tell them we're bringing you over to help the other bloke.”

“See how easy this can be?” Dean told him. “The more you cooperate, the easier things will be for you down the road. I'll make sure to tell my cousin if you do as we say.”

“Look, I have a wife and she's due with our first child any time now. I had no idea what I was getting into. I've only work for Jones a couple of weeks and things didn't seem right, but I needed the money,” he explained as he hung his head in shame.

“What's her name?” Lavender asked him as they settled inside the limo.

“Rose,” he said and his expression changed. He was a man in love.

“And yours?”

“My name is Mathew.”

“Well, Mathew, if you help us get George out unhurt, I promise you personally that your name will be cleared and we'll even help you find a job,” Harry promised.

Mathew smiled at him gratefully and nodded.

Since it was a bit crowded inside of the limousine, Harry pulled Hermione onto his lap. Ron did the same with Luna, and Neville with Ginny. Dean's cheeks turned a bright shade of pink as he was about to get in and the guys smiled knowingly at him. He seemed to have it bad for Lavender. When she saw his hesitation, she motioned him over.

“Here, I'll scoot over and make room for you.”

He did as she asked, but it was still a tight fit since Mathew took up a lot of the seat. After that, they were on their way.

Hermione burrowed closer to Harry and kissed his cheek. “When this is over, I'm going to take a week off work so we can go on holiday together. The coast of France is beginning to sound delightful,” she whispered in his ear. “I can't wait to have you all to myself again, Mr. Potter. Oh, the things I plan to do to you,” she purred as her tongue darted out and licked his ear seductively. He swallowed hard and pulled back slightly.

“Stop that, you witch, or the others are going to notice the effect you have on me,” he whispered back.

“Mmm, is that so?” she asked as she licked his earlobe again.

“Yes,” he mumbled desperately.

The others had noticed and started laughing. He blushed furiously and as gently as he could, he pulled her back and away from him. She had the nerve to laugh as she settled back against his chest. Ginny and her exchanged a knowing grin.

Hermione decided to behave the rest of the way. About twenty minutes later, the limo stopped in front of what appeared to be an old warehouse.

“Let me get out first and talk to the guards. I would suggest you put your wands away where they can't be seen or they'll suspect something is wrong,” Mathew told them as he opened the door. “And don't worry with another warning; I know what's at stake here.”

Harry nodded at him and he got out. When he did, Hermione waved her hand around and all of their holsters became invisible. Not five minutes later, Mathew was back as promised.

“I told them I was giving you a tour of the place at Rudolph's command. They didn't question me. But we have to move quickly. One of them is bound to call the club to confirm and when they find out I lied, all hell's going to come down on us.”

“Oh, no worries then,” Ron said nonchalantly. “Mathew, we already went to hell, conquered it, and came back wearing the t-shirt. This is going to be a piece of cake, mate” he said smiling as they all got out of the limo.

“Why don't I even want to ask?” Mathew said wincing.

“Believe me, you don't want to know,” Neville said as he walked passed him and slapped him lightly on the back.

They all started walking over to the building, and Harry noticed the guards moved a bit closer and watched their every move. Mathew reached the door and a burly guard that was standing in front of it moved to the side, but he also kept a watchful eye on them.

“Thanks, Bart,” Mathew said to the man as they moved in.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Hermione had to admit that she was impressed. What appeared from the outside as a shabby, decrepit building was in reality a state of the art lab. There were as good as twenty people wearing white robes and working at several stainless steel tables. There were armed guards at all of the doors. So far she had counted eight, plus the six that were outside.

She was already making calculations as they walked further in. She noticed the chemists were working on several different pills. Her anger began to rise as the implications of what she saw became clear. These people were getting rich out of hundreds of innocent lives that got hooked on the pills and saw no end to their addictions.

“How are we going to stun them all at once without hurting the people in white robes?” Harry asked her softly.

“We'll each have to stun one. And we have to do it at the same time and no one can miss.”

“You don't ask for much, eh, Mione,” Ron whispered.

“There's no other way. If we don't take them out all at once, they're bound to shot at us and believe me, you don't want that. Spells and bullets have very different effects on people. And they have machine guns, which are even more dangerous.”

“Mathew, is there an office where we can meet for about two minutes?” Harry asked looking around. The guards inside seemed to be getting a bit restless and the chemists were looking scared.

“There's a conference room through that door on the left. We can go in there, but remember our time limits.”

They walked in and stayed close together. Hermione looked at them expectantly and took a deep breath.

“We have to do this together at once and failure is not an option. When we go back out there, we're going to walk around the tables and position ourselves as close to the guards as possible. If we don't stun them all at once, people can die.”

She hated to be the one pointing that out, especially when they had all confronted death so many times before, but there was no other choice. They all looked a bit anxious and that was to be expected since they were out of their element.

“I'm going to yell `get down' after I make eye contact with all of you. Before that, make sure to tell as many people as you can to obey when I say that. At that point, you have to stun the guard closest to you,” Harry said and they all nodded.

“Mathew, why don't you stay here and out of harms way?” Neville suggested and he was more than happy to oblige.

“Once we have the guards down, we'll have a few minutes to get to George and we have no idea where he can be,” Harry continued. “Neville and Dean, as soon as the stunning is done, make sure to watch all the doors so the guards outside can't come in for a while. If they try, drop them like the rest.”

Hermione handed Mathew a radio. “Call Phillip and tell him how to get here with lots of reinforcements as soon as possible. He's going to need them. Tell him everything we've seen so far and about the guards outside.”

“Okay, I'll call him right now,” he said as he sat down and tried to make contact.

“Let's go then,” Harry said and they all nodded.

Right before he walked out the door, he turned to face Hermione. “I love you, Mione.”

“I love you, too, Harry,” she said back and smiled at him. He could have melted had there not been another pressing matter at hand.

Luna slapped the back of Ron's head when he made a gagging motion. Harry smiled his thanks at her.

He opened the door, and as casually as they could they started spreading around, all wandering around the different tables as if interested in the work that was being done. Hermione went as far as asking a few questions. They did this for a good ten minutes before Harry decided it was time.

Harry kept an eye out and when he noticed that everyone was in a good enough position, he started making eye contact with his friends. He left Hermione for last and when he looked at her, she winked reassuringly at him. He moved his hand to his thigh and grabbed his wand.

“Get down!” he screamed and as the chemists dropped to the floor as he had asked, he heard the chorus of spells as he stunned the guard that was closest to him. He hadn't counted on the guards also getting down, but from what he could see, they had gotten them all.

Dean and Neville then moved close to the front door and were prepared to stun anyone that came in. The chemists were all cowering between the tables and some of them were even crying.

“Get all of these people in the conference room,” Hermione told Luna and Lavender. “Ginny, let's go get your brother.”

“We'll take this side of the building,” Harry said to Ron and the four of them started opening all the doors.

They reached the last door at the same time and Ginny tried to open it. It was locked, but Harry said a quick spell and unlocked it. She pushed the door in and on the other side was a smiling George.

“Oi! About time you lot got here! What were you waiting for, Christmas?”

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Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.

A/N: Thank you so much to everyone that reviewed. I truly appreciate the effort. Since this story was originally about Harry and Hermione, let's get back to them, shall we? *wink*

Together Again

A few hours later, an exhausted Hermione walked under the spray of the shower in her own bathroom. She had gotten to their London flat not too long ago and all she wanted was to feel clean. The rescue had been a total success, and most of the crooks were behind bars. She had healed George while the rest made sure the many guards were bound and ready to be picked-up by Phillip and his men.

After giving lengthy recounts of all that had happened and performing several memory charms, they were all ready to go. Hermione had arrived at their flat after going back to the cottage to check on Fred. The rest were going to stay there. She'd promised her friends to be there around lunch so they could spend the afternoon together. Since they were all feeling somewhat guilty for ruining her weekend away with Harry, no one had protested.

Harry had decided to stay a bit longer, wanting to talk to George, but she was hoping he'd come and spend the night with her. It seemed amazing that they had managed to make love twice that day, explored a new town, gone on a rescue mission, and come back home in one piece. She needed sleep. She'd come home tired from the conference only to go on this whirlwind of a weekend.

The hot water soothed sore muscles and relaxed her as it cascaded down her curbs. After she was done washing her hair, she started soaping her body. She was bent down soaping her calf when she heard the door to the shower stall open. Before she had a chance to straighten up, a pair of hands were on her waist and Harry pressed himself against her rear.

“Miss me?” he asked as he moved insinuatingly against her.

She could feel his erection growing against her and forgot just how tired she was. She pushed back against him and smiled when she felt his quick intake of breath. She put her hands against the tiled wall to steady herself and he bent over her back and started kissing her flesh. His hands moved up to cover her breasts and she sighed in contentment. She hadn't expected this turn of events, but she wasn't about to complain. If Harry wanted her, she was all his.

After more sweet torture, one of his hands moved down her stomach in into her feminine folds. His fingers proved softly, carefully and she loved every minute of it. She moved up finally and pressed her back against his chest. He kept tormenting her slowly, building her desire for him until she thought she'd die if he didn't take her right then.

“Harry, please,” she begged in a small voice.

“What do you want, love?” he asked as his fingers found her entrance and pushed in.

She gasped. “You,” was all she was capable of uttering.

“How?”

“I don't care, just do me!” she said desperately. She wanted him so much it hurt.

“Hmm, that sounds promising.”

He moved them until she was pushed against the tiles. He grabbed both of her arms and pulled them up over her head, holding them there. He let his free hand roam over her body until it reached her hips. He squeezed her buttocks and then rubbed his fingers in between the cheeks, making her cry out at his boldness. He was fully erect by then and desperate to fill her, but he waited a bit longer, trying to bring her excitement to a feverish pitch.

He kept playing with her as she begged, never letting her arms go. He touched her everywhere, he kissed her, he sucked on her neck and shoulders, and then his fingers entered her hot center once more, making her crazy with need.

“Harry, I'm going to make you pay for this,” she said between ragged breaths.

“Promises, promises,” he said as he sucked hard between her shoulder blades, leaving his mark on her.

He finally turned her around and grabbed one of her legs, hooking it around his waist. He looked deep into her eyes as he entered her slowly.

“I love you,” he said when he was fully sheathed inside of her.

“And I you,” she said and kissed him hungrily.

He took her hard and fast, and she urged him on. She had never needed or wanted another man as much as she did him. They never stopped kissing in some way, or touching, or grabbing. When she finally hit her peak, she shouted out and her inner muscled contracted around him making him climax as well. She was panting. He was gasping. She unhooked her leg from around his waist and leaned fully against the wall for support. He leaned against her and buried his face in her neck.

When their breathing was back to normal, he leaned back and dropped a quick kiss on her lips.

“Did I hurt you in anyway? I know I was a bit rough.” he asked in a concerned voice.

“No, I'm perfectly okay,” she reassured him smiling. “But you're still going to pay for the sheer torture you put me through, Mr. Potter.”

“I look forward to it, Ms. Granger.”

“Let's finish this shower and go to bed, Harry. I thought I was exhausted before, but now I'm ready to fall.”

“I'll wash your back if you wash mine,” he said as he grabbed the bar of soap now forgotten in a corner of the stall.

“Sounds like a plan.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Hermione slowly became aware of her surroundings. She blinked her eyes open and looked at her bedside clock. It was almost eleven. Her eyes widened when she saw the hour, but then she relaxed. It was only Sunday, and she was in no hurry to go anywhere. So what if she never stayed in bed so late? She rather liked how she was spooned into Harry's body and his arm was draped possessively around her waist, while his hand cupped her breast.

She sighed contently and snuggled a bit more against him.

“Keep that up and my little friend will want to play again with your little friend,” he mumbled against her neck.

“Insatiable little bugger, isn't he?” she asked teasingly.

“You're one to talk. You took advantage of me this dawn.”

“I didn't hear any complaints then.”

“I admit I can be a bit of a prat at times, but I never said I was stupid!”

She turned around until she was facing him. “And just how is our little friend?” she asked grasping him and squeezing lightly.

“I'd say he's happy right about now. In fact, he's so happy he's expanding uncontrollably as we speak.”

“Mmm, I can feet that. What do you suggest we do about it?”

“I'm open to suggestions.”

“I think it's time I had a serious heart to heart with him.”

“What do you mean by that? He's done nothing but be a very good chap,” Harry protested.

“I'd still like to speak privately to him, if you don't mind.”

“And just how do you plan on doing that?”

“I have my ways. Remember I'm the smart one!”

She winked at him and then started dropping kisses as she went down his body. She wasted no time reaching him and taking him into her warm mouth. He gasped when her tongue flicked over his tip and then sucked softly on it. She kept playing with him, touching him, petting him, sucking on him, biting, licking, and kissing. He was a mass of nerve endings and he thought he would explode at any moment.

But the witch seemed to know just as he was getting close to the end and would pull back, making him beg and wriggle in the bed.

“Please, Mione,”

“Yes, love?”

“This is torture.”

“Is it now?” she said as she licked him up and down as if he was a very tasty summer treat.

“You are a wicked witch,” he said panting as she sucked on his testicles while her hand moved up and down his shaft. He groaned louder then and she smiled.

“Like that, huh?”

“You don't play fair.”

“Sure I do. And just to prove it to you, I'm going to make you come so hard you're going to scream my name,” she told him saucily as her mouth replaced her hands.

And scream her name he did.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“About bloody time you two got here!” Ron said as Harry and Hermione finally apparated to the cottage close to one in the afternoon. “It's a good thing we didn't wait for you too to have breakfast.”

Hermione leaned against Harry and wrapped her arms around his waist lovingly. He put his arm around her shoulders and kissed the top of his head. She smiled at their friends faces. The only one's left were Ron, Luna, Ginny, and Neville.

“Oh, shush, Ron. Let them be. When we started shagging you didn't want to stop for days either,” Luna said from her place at the couch.

Ron ears turned a bright shade of red and he looked at her and smiled.

“Too much information,” Ginny said as she covered her ears. “I don't need to know what my brothers do in the bedroom. Or out of it,” she added when Luna was about to speak again.

She walked up to Hermione and kissed her on the cheek. Then she kissed Harry.

“Hey, Ginny.”

“Hey you two. Sleep well?” she said smiling knowingly at them.

“Yeah, there was a bit of sleeping involved,” Hermione said winking at her friend.

“Mione,” Harry warned.

“What?” she asked innocently. “I'm answering my friend's question.”

“When did they become such prudes? Let's go into town and have lunch. I'm starved!” Ginny suggested.

“That sound's like a good idea. I need my energy back to keep up with Ms. Granger,” Harry said not wanting to sound like a prude as Ginny had implied.

“Harry!” Ron said alarmingly. “Merlin, I don't want to know that! Bloody hell.”

“Oh, for the love of god, get over it, you git! So Harry and I are shagging! It's not the end of the world and believe me when I say I'm a happy woman!” Hermione said and Ginny and Luna laughed.

They apparated into town and went to the tavern to have lunch. The server took their order and left to get them drinks. They were sitting on a large booth that took up one corner of the place. Harry had his arm around Hermione and she was snuggled close against his chest. He's never felt more relaxed or happy. He had the woman he loved with him and their closest friends were surrounding them. Life was good.

“I had fun last night,” Neville suddenly said and they all turned to look at him, surprise etched in their faces.

“It was a bit of fun once we knew what we were doing,” Harry agreed. “Having the gang back together was special.”

“I was thinking we could do it again,” Neville continued cautiously watching their faces for reaction.

“Again? Who's in trouble now?” Ron asked.

“No one that I know.”

“Then what do you mean, love?” Ginny asked looking at him.

“Would it be completely far fetched to think about opening a sort of rescue business?” There. He's said it and now it was their turn to react. He didn't have to wait long.

“A business?” said Ginny.

“Do this on a regular basis?” Ron asked.

“Who would we rescue?” asked Luna.

“I think it's brilliant,” said Harry.

“Go on, Neville,” said Hermione, always the voice of wisdom.

“Well, what we did yesterday got me thinking. We were a force to reckon with during fifth and sixth year, and then during the war. Yesterday we were able to rescue George without much of a problem and in less than twenty-four hours. I think if we all agree, that we could open some sort of agency where all of our talents can be put to good use.”

“Sound interesting, but what about our present jobs?” Ginny asked.

“If we go in together, no one will need to leave their regular jobs. We have Phillip as an alley now on the muggle side of the law. Hermione is a healer. Harry and Ron play quidditch but can give any ministry Auror a run for their money. Luna has contacts in the press and Ginny at the ministry. I can deal with potions. I say we have all we need. And we're not counting the others.”

“You've really given this some serious thought, haven't you Neville?” Hermione asked clearly impressed.

“I have,” he said flushing a bit. “It might sound far fetched, but I think it would work. You can't deny the adrenaline rush we experienced the last few hours didn't make you wish it would happen more often.”

“I hear you,” Harry said looking at Hermione and wiggling his eyebrows.

“Oh, stop it,” she said laughing at him. “I think Neville has a good proposal in his hands.”

“What exactly would we do?” asked Ron.

“Rescue missions, finding missing object, fighting off evil, and maybe escorting important people. The things we already know how to do and maybe some others as people contact us.”

“Where would we work out of?” Luna asked

“We would have to find an office somewhere. That's won't be hard to do.”

“There are a couple of offices not being used at our building right now. If we do this, that's a good place to start and it won't cost anything,” Luna said.

“That would be brilliant!” Neville said.

“Are we sure we want to do this? I mean, once people find out, we're not going to have a life. They'll come up with any kind of excuse just to meet us,” Ron pointed out.

“You have a point there,” Harry said. “But I'm sure we can do this on a trial basis and not advertise. We can let our closest friends and family know and go from there. Or Phillip might need help again and we could provide it. We can deal with an exclusive clientele and chose our cases.”

“Harry is right. If Luna let's us use the offices at her building, no one needs to know what goes on in there. Most of the work would be done as needed,” Ginny said.

“I think it's something we should all think about some more. Why don't we finish here and go tour the town a bit? We'll meet again at our flat next Friday night and make a decision as a group,” Hermione suggested.

“Sounds like a good idea to me. That way no one feels like they're being pushed into this.” Neville said.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Tell me everything that's happened between you since you got home. When Harry told me what he was planning I thought it was bloody brilliant,” Ginny said as she linked her arm through Hermione's.

They had finished lunch and were now walking around the town leisurely. They guys were inside one of the shops looking at brooms while the girls enjoyed a stroll down the street.

“It's been wonderful,” she said dreamily. “I never thought it would happen. Harry can be so dense at times when it comes to the opposite sex. But I'm glad he finally said something.”

“He sure was doing a piss poor job of winning your affections,” Luna said and they all laughed.

“Oh, but he's more than made up for the time lost,” she said dreamily.

“Do tell!” Ginny said excitedly. She'd never seen Hermione look so radiant.

Hermione told them the story, keeping the most intimate details to herself. By the time she was done, a huge smile covered her face and her eyes shone with happiness.

“How long have you been in love with him, Mione?” Ginny asked.

“For ages it seems.”

“Why didn't you tell me before now?”

“I felt bad. You were with him first and it seemed wrong some how to be with my friend's ex.”

“You git! That happened ages ago and I'm in love with Neville. What Harry and I shared back then was brief and never got serious. But what you two have is.”

“Does that mean you're mad at me for being engaged to Ron?” Luna asked worriedly.

“No! I guess my answer would be the same as Ginny's. I love Harry and what Ron and I shared is also in the past. We were never meant to be more than friends. The constant bickering and fighting should have been clue enough!”

“We should have a triple wedding!” Luna suggested happily.

“No way! We each deserve our own separate wedding. Besides, Neville and I have only been dating for six months. It's much too soon to think about marriage.”

“Don't look at me, I only just realized I'm in love.”

“Fine then,” Luna said pouting. “Then you can both be the maids of honor at my wedding.”

“Luna, you only get one!” Ginny reminded her.

“Says who? And when have I ever followed conventional rules?”

“She's got you there, Red. If Luna wants two maids of honor, she'll have them, by George!”

“I guess you're right. As long as we get to pick the dresses!”

“As soon as we settle the business of opening the DA office, we'll start planning my wedding. Oh, this is so exciting!”

Ginny and Hermione laughed with her. The guys found them like that and smiled at each other.

As much as he tried, Harry could not remember a time when they had all been so happy and at the same time. Could it be that life was finally smiling down on them for all the things they had gone through? He hoped so.

Hermione happened to look their way and she smiled at him. His heart melted on the spot. That smile reached her eyes and made them shine with happiness. He was in love with the most wonderful woman in the world, and she loved him back.

He reached her side then and kissed her softly on the lips. “Miss me?”

“More than you know,” she replied softly and kissed him back.

“Someone kill me now,” Ron said.

Luna slapped the back of his head again. Harry paid him no mind and kissed Hermione again just to irritate his friend.

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Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.

A/N: I wanted to apologize profusely for not updating until now, since that is not my usual style (hangs head in shame). I re-read the entire story and decided to give it another go. Hope you are still interested in it and that you enjoy this next chapter. As always, thank you for the lovely reviews.

Soul Mates

Friday night came sooner than she had expected. Hermione was in the kitchen putting some snacks together for their meeting since Harry had insisted on ordering pizza so she would not have to cook after a long day at work. He was taking a shower and she had been tempted to join him, however, knowing what happened every time they showered together, she'd decided against it. She had showered by herself and was now putting the last few things together.

The past week had been unbelievable. She was glad the weekend had arrived again, since she was exhausted and the lack of sleep was finally getting to her. She would have to talk to Harry about that. They were insatiable for each other, and every night they made love at least twice. Then a third time in the morning before getting ready for work. It was as if they were trying to make up for lost time. Who would have thought the little bookwork would turn out to be such a sex maniac! Still, they needed to rest just a tiny bit more. Instead of three times a day, maybe they should go down to two!

She loved being with Harry and it showed. Everyone at work commented about the new glow she seemed to have. She was happy and she felt loved like never before in her life. Harry made sure to tell her and show her everyday. She had called her parents with the news, and while not surprised in the least, they had been overjoyed with the reports of her new relationship. Her mother even told her they had been waiting for the news for quite a while now. Hermione was once again floored by that. They really had been blind and stupid!

She finished putting the trays together as Harry walked into the room, his hair still wet from his shower. He was wearing jeans, a black t-shirt that outlined his chest to perfection, and was barefoot. He loved walking around barefoot.

“You look positively yummy,” she said wiggling her eyebrows. “I could eat you up, my love.”

“Can we cancel on our friends then?” he said walking up to her and putting his hands on her waist. He lifted her onto the counter top easily and spread her legs to settle between them. He had grown rather fond of the kitchen counters.

“Of course not! They'll be here any second now.” She started running her hands through his hair, murmuring a drying charm. “There, much better. Now you look roughish and sexy!”

“Thanks,” he said and moved closer to her and kissed her. He could not help it. His need for her did not waver and he took every available opportunity to kiss her or touch her. She wrapped her arms around his neck while his hands rested on her arse, pulling her even closer to him.

“Oi!”

At the sound of Ron's voice, they broke apart. Harry glared at his best friend.

“You have rotten timing, you git! I'm going to block your arse from apparating into this flat.”

“Keep it in your pants, prat. You knew we were coming! I might not live here anymore, but I still consider this my home away from home!”

Hermione laughed at them and Luna joined her. Ron had decided to move in with Luna once they had gotten back from the cottage. He spent most of his time there anyways, and he wanted to give Harry and Hermione the privacy they needed as they started their new relationship. Besides, he did not want to run into them while in a compromising situation since they seemed to like making out everywhere these days.

Hermione went to get down from the counter and as she did, she rubbed intimately against Harry and he sucked in his breath.

“Later,” she whispered in his ear and dropped a quick kiss on his mouth.

Luna was standing next to Ron, smiling at them. “Hello.”

Hermione walked up to her and gave her a welcoming hug and a kiss. “So glad you could make it. Where are Ginny and Neville?”

“I'm sure they'll be here soon, unless they're doing the same thing you were,” Luna joked and Ron blushed. “They are, after all, in a pretty new relationship as well.”

“My sister does not shag, Luna, I've told you that plenty of times. Neville is under death threat over that and I don't care if Ginny says otherwise.”

“Right, love, if that makes you feel better,” Luna said smiling as she patted his cheek affectionately. She exchanged a knowing look with Hermione and they giggled. Yes, Hermione had now started to giggle and they had teased her about it unmercifully. Not that she paid them any mind.

“Who says I don't shag?” Ginny asked walking into the kitchen followed by a nervous looking Neville.

She hugged Hermione and Luna quickly and then kissed Ron and Harry. Neville kept his distance since he wanted to have children in the future!

“Ron. He thinks of you as saintly,” Hermione told her. “All he does with Luna is hold hand as well I presume.”

They all laughed and Ron blushed. “Harry, give me something strong to drink. These three are going to be the death of me yet.”

“Oh, suck it up and be a man. Next you're going to say that Molly and Arthur don't do it either,” Harry said as he pulled some beers out of the fridge.

Ron covered his ears with his hands and started humming loudly. Luna laughed at him and Ginny shook her head.

“I guess he thinks we're all adopted then,” she said. “If it wasn't for the hair, I would think he was, but that's just me! Besides, we know from Luna just how much my dear brother loves to shag!”

They all laughed while Ron blushed even more. “Yeah, you're all bloody funny.”

While Harry stayed behind to order several pizzas, the rest went into the living room carrying the trays of snacks Hermione had put together. Ron immediately piled his plate and started eating while pretending to ignore his friends.

“So, Mione,” Ginny said as she sat down next to her on the sofa. “Did you happen to see the pictures of you and Harry in the Prophet? They are having a field day with the news of your new romance. They're dying for confirmation!”

“I did see, and they've tried to contact us several times. Harry and I are staying mum on the subject, which is driving them insane. I refuse to let such a rag print something so important to us.”

“They've contacted my office several times already,” Luna said. “As if I would give the competition any inside information! They must really think I'm daft! You'd think by now they would know better, since The Quibbler is doing much better business than them.”

“They owled me as well, but I haven't returned the letters. My secretary knows better than to put their correspondence on my desk. She just throws it all away,” Ginny told them.

“It's ridiculous! Will they ever let us live in peace? I mean, Voldemort is long gone and you would think they'd had gotten over us by now,” Hermione said shaking her head.

“It'll never happen,” Ginny said sadly. “The trio will always be followed, photographed, and bothered for as long as you all live. The things you accomplished together will never be forgotten. You're all celebrities of the wizarding world.”

“It's unfair, because we were all a part of it. We all fought and we all lost loved ones. Yes, the bloody trio was responsible for Voldemort's ultimate demise, but we were all there. There's no need to single any one out,” she continued heatedly. It had been her argument for years now and she never failed to mention or praise her friends whenever the press asked her.

“We know, Hermione, but it's been the golden trio since your first year at Hogwarts and we don't mind at all. Better you than us, I say,” Neville told her and smiled.

“I'm still not giving anything to them. If anyone gets to confirm the story it's Luna,” Hermione said and squeezed her friend's hand.

“That's sweet. Thanks Hermione,” Luna told her squeezing back.

“I wouldn't have it any other way, sweetie.”

“Pizza's should arrive really soon,” Harry said as he came back into the room a few minutes later. “You have to love muggles!”

“It's something I'm glad you introduced us to, Harry,” Ron said smiling widely. He was on his second plate of snacks.

The others nodded in agreement, as Harry took his place next to Hermione. “If we were to learn how to combine the two worlds, imagine how things would be like.”

“We could, if we decided to go into business. Hermione already proved that with the radios,” Neville said shyly.

“The radio idea was brilliant,” Ginny agreed.

“Thank you! On a more serious note, and hating to be the first one to sound like the voice of doom, I have thought about Neville's proposal quite a bit during this past week. After careful consideration, my answer, unfortunately, has to be no.”

Hermione looked at Harry, who nodded in understanding, since she had already told him of her decision. The others seemed surprised, but not as much as she had thought.

“I'm sure you have a good reason for that, since you never do anything unless carefully planned,” Ron said.

“I have two very important reasons. The first one is Harry, and the second one is my job,” Hermione explained. “As much as I would love to be a part of such a group, I wouldn't have the time to be available whenever I was needed. I have never done things halfway and I am not planning to start now. I'm sure some of you are disappointed with my decision, but I'm being honest.”

Neville did look very disappointed, but nodded all the same. “I had a feeling you would say no for those exact reasons. And after thinking about it a lot, I figured it would be the answer of all involved. We all lead rather busy life's and now we're all in good relationships, so the time left over for something like this would be minimal.”

“I have to agree. Once we start playing again, Ron and I will not be around much between practices and games. And whatever time we do have free has to be for our girls, right, Ron?”

“Right you are, mate. They would skin us alive otherwise!”

“Oh, Ronald, I would never skin you alive,” Luna said. “I'd just refuse to shag you senseless,” she finished in her usual upfront way. They all laughed as Ron blushed once again.

“I'm out! Forget catching criminals or finding lost kittens. I'm going to be home with my lovely bride-to-be having lots of mind-boggling sex!”

That just made everyone laugh harder. Ron was never so open about his private life and hearing him say such things was a rare treat.

“I guess that means Neville and I can go right back to shagging, since my dear brother seems to have seen the light,” Ginny said and Neville's eyes widened at her comment. His only action was to cover his bits by crossing his legs tightly and looking down at his hands.

“No! You are still not shagging Neville!” Ron all but roared.

“Sure, Ron, you go on living in your little fantasy world while I go home tonight and have my way with this lovely man that's sitting next to me. If it makes you feel any better, you can even pretend I'm still a virgin and all that!”

“Ginny, love, I think that's enough,” Neville whispered into her ear.

Hermione and Harry exchanged glanced and smiled at their friends. Hermione decided to get the subject back to more neutral ground.

“Well! Getting back to the business at hand, I also wanted to add that should the need ever arise, I'll drop everything in an instant to go help, just like we did this past weekend with George and Fred. I consider all of you family, and no one messes with my family,” she finished with feeling.

“We love you too, sis,” said Ginny and Ron nodded.

Hermione reached out to Ginny and hugged her tightly. Ron joined the group hug. Harry smiled while watching. It still amazed him at times that they were still together after all of the things they had faced. And the best part was that they all had someone to love. Just then, there was a knock on the door and Harry got up.

He opened the door to see the pizza deliveryman there and smiled at him. After paying and tipping the guy, he closed the door. He walked back into the living room and Hermione made room on the table so he could set the boxes down. They decided to watch a movie while they ate, since Harry had a big screen TV and a surround sound system they all loved. Another muggle invention that Ron thought was bloody brilliant mate!

When the movie was over, Hermione made tea and they finished talking about their reasons for not opening the business at all. It was agreed that they would all be available should the need ever arise for any of them or their friends. Everyone, even Neville, left satisfied with the mutual decision.

~*~

After tiding up, Hermione and Harry sat on the sofa once more, snuggling. After sharing a long and thoroughly satisfying kiss, Hermione leaned her head on his shoulder and sighed contentedly.

“Are you happy, Mione?” Harry asked after a few minutes of silence.

“Of course I'm happy, Harry. You shouldn't have to ask.” She lifted her head to look at him curiously. “Is there a reason why you are asking?”

“I wanted to make sure, is all.”

“Hmm. It seems like more than that to me. Why ask that all of a sudden? Are you having doubts about us?”

“No! Of course not. I just really wanted to make sure we both feel the same way before I ask the next question.”

“And what question is that?”

“Do you want kids?”

“Yes I do, Harry. I certainly don't want to pull a Mrs. Weasley, bless her heart, but eventually, I would like nothing more than to have your children.”

“I'm glad to hear that. How many are we having?”

“Definitely not one. I grew up with no one close to play with and your own childhood was horrible. Three would be my limit, but two sounds wonderful. A boy and a girl. And they're going to have lots of cousins thanks to Ron and Ginny, and an extended family in the Weasley's.”

“You really have all of this planned out, don't you love?” he asked her smiling.

“Well, those are my ideas, but we also need to take into consideration what you want.”

“I want the same. We both have busy careers and I would never ask you to give up yours just so we can have many kids. Two sounds perfect, and if we like it and if it seems like a good plan, we'll have three.”

“When do you want to start?” she asked curiosity getting the best of her.

“Well, that depends on you.”

“Why on me? It's something we should decide together.”

“Yes, but I already know what I want, and if it was up to me we would start soon,” he said and took her hand in his. Before she knew what was happening, he was sliding an engagement ring on her finger. Her eyes widened as he stopped half way and looked back at her.

“Harry?” she asked in a small voice.

“Will you make an honest man out of me, Mione? Will you spend the rest of your days at my side, raising our kids together, and loving me? Will you marry me, your best friend and the man that loves you more than life itself?”

Her eyes filled with tears as she looked at him. “Yes, Harry, I would be honored to be your wife.”

He smiled as he finished sliding the ring on her finger. He kissed the back of her hand and she noticed for the first time that there were tears in his eyes as well. She looked down at the ring and her heart skipped a beat or two. It was a square diamond with an emerald on each side set on a platinum band.

“Oh, Harry, it's absolutely beautiful. I had no idea you wanted this so soon.”

“I've wanted this for a long time, Mione, but I can wait until you're ready to take the next step. I just wanted to make sure you knew just how serious I am about us. I love you with all of my heart.”

She kissed him. For loving her. For making her wishes come true. For surprising her in such wonderful ways. For becoming the man she always knew he would become. For making her the happiest woman on the planet. For wanting to raise their kids together in a loving environment. Finally, she kissed him because she loved him more than she knew was possible. And because he had the sexiest and yummiest lips of any man alive.

“When would you like for us to be married?” she asked a long time later as they lay on the sofa, spent from the loving her kisses had provoked.

He was running his fingers lazily up and down her back as she looked down into his smiling face.

“Whenever you decided. We don't have to do it right away. I'm just pleased you said yes.”

“Were there ever any doubts?” she asked him surprised.

“There were always doubts, love. Just because you accepted to be with me and to become my lover did not mean you were ready to marry me as well. I didn't want to make any assumptions.”

“You silly man, you should have known all along I would say yes. I have given you my all and my heart is yours and yours alone. As far as I'm concerned, we can start making arrangements and have the wedding in six months time.”

His eyes widened and his smile could have lit the room. “Are you serious, Hermione?”

“We love each other, we are lovers as well as partners, and we already live together. Why wait for something we are going to do eventually? Besides, my parents, open-minded as they are, would love nothing more than to see us married. I'm daddy's girl after all!”

“I know! Let's go visit them this weekend. I want to tell them the news right away.”

“We can visit them tomorrow and take them to dinner. Then on Sunday, we will go to the Burrow and tell the Weasley's all at once. You know how Molly loves to have any excuse to cook a big meal and to have all her children back at the house.”

“Let's call your parents now, and then we'll owl Molly.”

“I don't know how I'm going to resist calling Luna and Ginny as well,” she said excitedly. “I just finished telling them last weekend I wasn't going to be marrying anytime soon, and here we are making plans!”

“So you didn't want to get married after all,” he said and frowned at her.

Before he could say something else, she placed a finger against his lips. “I want to marry you. I said that at a time I didn't know you felt the same!”

“So we're still on,” he said wanting to make sure.

“Listen, Mr. Potter, we're getting married in six months and there's nothing that will prevent us from making our dreams come true!”

“Good. I just wanted to double check. And of course, I'll have to ask Ron to be my best-man or risk personal injury.”

“I'm the one that's going to have a hard time deciding between Ginny and Luna. They're the sisters I never had growing up.”

“Then chose them both! And I'll add Neville as well.”

“No wonder Luna likes you so much! You think alike so much it is no wonder you clicked right away during our fifth year. She had the same idea for her wedding.”

“See, there you go then. We will have two maids-of-honor and two best men. Besides, no one will dare contradict the Boy Who Lived and his charming bride-to-be. They would be asking for the hexing of their lives!”

Hermione laughed at his words and he joined her. “You make me so happy, Harry. Don't ever change.”

“I've become the man I am today because of your influence in my life since the day we met. You have been balancing my life for so long that I would never be able to go at it without you at my side. We are a team and always will be. You are my soul mate, Hermione Jane Granger.”

“And you are mine, Harry James Potter.”

~*~

A/N: Hope you like it and that it makes up for the long time between posts. Until the next one!

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Disclaimer: I'm sure you've read it in all previous chapters.

A/N: As always, thanks for the lovely reviews! You guys rock my world.

Engagement News

“Are you nervous?” Hermione asked Harry as he parked the car in front of the Granger's home. She was taking off the scarf she had tied around her hair since they had driven from London with the top down.

“A bit, yes. Its normal, isn't it? I've never asked a father for his only daughter's hand in marriage before.”

“Harry, my parents adore you. They are going to be thrilled by the news, I know it.”

He turned to look at her and the smile on her face put him at ease. “Will you still marry me if they say no?”

“Of course, darling! We would just elope tomorrow,” she said and kissed his cheek lovingly.

“Then let's go in and tell them. I can't wait for your mother to know, since she seemed so pleased with the news of our relationship when you told her.”

“If all else fails, mention we want to have our first child soon and that should about do it,” she said smiling reassuringly at him and squeezing his hand.

Harry kissed her lips softly and they got out of their car. Harry reached into the back seat of the convertible and picked up a bouquet of white calla lilies and a bottle of wine they had brought for her parents. He wanted to make a good impression on them.

Hermione linked her arm through his and knocked on the door. It was opened a moment later by Mrs. Granger and she smiled lovingly at them. Hermione let go of his arm and hugged her mother tightly.

“Oh, darling, it's so good to see you both! Your dad and I were so pleased when you called with the news that you were coming today. It's been a while since we last saw you.”

“We're really happy to be here as well,” Hermione said and kissed her mother on the cheek.

“These are for you,” Harry said offering the bouquet to his mother-in-law.

“Oh, Harry, these are lovely! Thank you so much,” she said as she took the flowers and kissed his cheek.

“I'm glad you like them,” he said smiling down at her.

“Come on in, your father is in the living room reading a bit since he is anxious to see you.”

Harry and Hermione walked in and headed over to the living room, while her mum went to the kitchen to put the flowers in a base and to open the bottle of wine.

“Hi, daddy,” Hermione said as she spotted her father.

“Darling girl! Oh, it is so good to see you again. Come here and give your old man a hug,” Mr. Granger said as he put the paper down and got up grinning widely at her.

Hermione immediately walked into his open arms and hugged him tightly. “I've missed you, daddy.”

“And I you, little one. When your mum told me you were coming today I was so happy.”

Hermione stepped back and kissed his cheek lovingly. “We're happy to be here, daddy.”

Harry went over to them and shook Mr. Granger's hand. “It's good to see you again, sir. Thanks for having us over on such short notice. I hope we didn't interrupt any plans.”

“Nonsense! Even if we did have plans, we would have cancelled immediately. Now, sit down and tell me what's been going on with both of you.”

Harry waited for Hermione to sit and then sat down next to her. They chatted for a few minutes about their jobs and how much they loved living in London. Her mother came in at that point with the bottle of wine and four goblets.

“Darling, Harry brought us the most wonderful bottle of wine. I can see he has very good taste.”

“Actually, Hermione has been teaching me all about it and it was her that picked the bottle. I just paid for it,” he told them grinning.

“You're going to do just fine with the Granger women, I see,” Mr. Granger said smiling approvingly at Harry. “That's the first rule about making them happy, just go along with them most of the time and things will go smoothly for you. Step out of line a bit and they're all over you!”

“Daddy!” Hermione said laughing at him. “We're not that bad, right mum?”

“Of course not, darling. We've just trained them really well is all,” Mrs. Granger told her daughter laughing as well.

Once their laughter and teasing had died down, Mrs. Granger finished serving the wine and passed the goblets around.

“Before we drink the wine, Harry and I have something to tell you,” Hermione said as she rested her hand on Harry's knee.

“More news?” her mother asked surprised.

Harry nodded at them and took a deep breath. “I've asked Hermione to be my wife, and although she already said yes, I wanted your approval as well,” Harry said quickly before he lost his nerve.

“Oh, darlings, that's the best news we've received in a long time. Of course we approve!” Mrs. Granger said as her eyes filled with happy tears.

“Do you love my daughter?” Mr. Granger asked Harry.

“More than life itself, sir. To be honest with you, I don't know what I would do without her in my life. She gives me strength, she makes me a better man, and she loves me for who I am, not because of my status within the wizarding world. She knows me better than I know myself and she is the most amazing woman I know. I promise you both that I intend to spend the rest of my life loving and cherishing her,” Harry finished looking at his in-laws and covering Hermione's hand with his.

“That's more than enough for me. If my little girl is happy, then we approve of her choice and we are glad her choice is you, Harry. I know how smart my daughter is and if she loves you, we love you. Welcome to our family, son,” Mr. Granger said and got up.

Harry did too, and was surprised when Mr. Granger pulled him into a tight hug and patted his back. Then Mrs. Granger hugged him as well and patted his cheek lovingly. Hermione joined in the hugging as happy tears ran down her cheeks. She had been serious when she had told Harry she would marry him no matter what, but the fact that her parents were so happy about their impending union just made everything so much better. Life had finally taken a turn for the best.

“I propose a toast,” Mr. Granger said smiling at them. They all grabbed their goblets and raised them. “To my lovely daughter and her future husband, may they be as happy as I have been in my own marriage and may love always be the one thing that ties you together for the rest of your lives.”

“Thank you, daddy,” Hermione said as she wiped another tear from the corner of her eye.

“Cheers, darlings!” Mrs. Granger said as they all brought their goblets together and then drank the wine.

“I know I've done this already, but I'd like to do it again in front of your parents,” Harry told Hermione as he took her engagement ring from his pocket, where he had been keeping it since leaving London. He got down on one knee and looked up at her. “Will you marry me, Mione?”

Hermione's eyes filled once more with tears, finally understanding why Harry had asked if he could keep her ring for a while before going to her parents. The fact that he was proposing in front of them once more meant the world to her.

“Of course I'll marry you, darling. Nothing would make me happier than to be your wife,” she told him as her tears fell once he put the ring back on her finger. She had felt naked without it, even though he had just given it to her the night before.

Mr. and Mrs. Granger were both smiling, and he took his handkerchief from his pocket and handed it to his wife, since she was crying just like her daughter. When Harry was done, he got up, kissed Hermione softly, and then hugged her tightly.

“You make me so happy, Mione,” he whispered in her ear. “I love you.”

“I love you too, Harry; more than you'll ever know.”

They finally broke apart and turned to look at her parents. Her mother was crying while her father stood by her with his arm around her shoulders. His eyes were suspiciously watery as well, although he pretended not to notice.

“I say we go out and celebrate this happy occasion,” Mr. Granger suggested after another round of hugs and kisses.

“That was the idea all along, daddy. We came to share our good news and to take you out to dinner.”

“Nonsense, darling, your father and I will take you. It's not everyday our daughter gets married.”

Harry was about to protest when he caught his father-in-law's look. He remembered his advice from earlier and nodded in understanding. “That would be lovely, Mrs. Granger. We'd be happy to accept your dinner invitation.”

Hermione and her mother beamed at him and he knew he had made the right choice.

“I'm going to go freshen up and then we can leave. And Harry, from now on, please call me mum.”

Harry, surprised by her request, just nodded. He had never felt so welcomed outside of the Weasley's home and her request filled him with joy. The Boy Who Lived now had an extended family that loved him and he was no longer alone in the world.

Hermione followed her mother down the hall, chatting excitedly about the news while Harry stayed behind with Mr. Granger.

“I wanted to second my wife, Harry. Hermione's told us all about your parents, and while I have no intention of replacing them, I would like it if you called me dad instead of Mr. Granger from now on.”

“I appreciate that more than you know, dad.” Harry smiled at him and felt at ease. “I hope that it won't be too long before we have a little one calling you granddaddy as well!”

“Oh, son, that would make me the happiest man on this earth, not to mention my wife. She would want to move in with you at that point just to be close to the grandkids. That is of course, assuming there will be more than one.”

“We hope so. Hermione wants two to begin with; maybe three if we're good at being parents.”

“I have no doubt of that and two is a good number to start with. I know she got a bit lonely at times when it was just her and that is why we made sure she was surrounded by books and we took her traveling around the world. She really flourished when she went away to school and met the lot of you. My little girl was not alone anymore and we were happy for her. I think she has loved you from the time she met you, Harry. Even when she was with Ron, her letters were mostly about you, and the things you did together. Like my wife said to her the other day, we've been expecting the news for a while.”

Harry was surprised to hear his words and happiness exploded in his chest. They were meant to be together. After years of pain and uncertainty, here was his shot at happiness and at having a family of his own in the near future. He knew then it had all been worth it if it meant spending the rest of his life next to the woman he loved with all of his heart.

“Thank you for telling me that. I'm going to make sure she is safe and happy for the rest of her life.”

“I know you will, son. I can see it in your eyes.”

Hermione and her mother finally came back down and they left. They took the convertible, since her parents wanted to ride in it. Hermione and her mother sat in the back already making wedding plans while Mr. Granger gave Harry directions to the restaurant as they chatted amicably.

~*~

“It was a wonderful evening, love.”

“Yes, it was. I told you my parents would approve.”

They were laying in bed, cuddling and talking after making love. Dinner with the Granger's had been wonderful and they had ended up spending the night at their home. To Harry's surprise, they had suggested they spend the night in Hermione's room. It was a good thing that Hermione was always prepared and there was always an overnight bag in the trunk of her car. They had made plans to have breakfast with her parents and then drive back to London. They were supposed to be at the Burrow for lunch.

“We should get some sleep. Tomorrow is going to be another busy day.”

“I can't wait to tell our friends about our plans, Harry. I'm so happy.”

“I am too, darling. In fact, I cannot remember the last time I felt this way. And it's all thanks to you.”

“You're a sweet man, Harry James Potter. And I love you for that.”

~*~

“Here we go, love. This should be interesting, since by the sounds of things everyone made it,” Harry told Hermione as they stood in front of the door leading to the Burrow's kitchen.

“When do you want to make the announcement?”

“How about when we sit down to lunch?”

“Are you kidding? Ron would have your arse if you interrupt his eating time.”

“He'll get over it. It won't kill him to wait a minute or two.”

Hermione smiled at him and finally knocked on the door. She quickly turned her ring around so the gems were not visible and it looked just like a platinum band. Luna and Ginny would notice the ring right away otherwise.

Mrs. Weasley opened the door and enveloped them both into a huge hug before they could even say hello. “It's so good to have you kids home again. We've missed you.”

“It's good to be here, Mrs. Weasley. We've missed the Burrow and your cooking more than you know.”

“I was glad when I received the owl saying you were coming. And of course, I invited everyone and now that you're here, we're just waiting on the twins.”

“Can't start a Weasley reunion without those two,” Harry said smiling at her. Now that he thought about it, he had two mother figures in his life. He was one lucky bloke.

More hugs and kisses followed as they made their way through the house. The twins arrived not long after them and it wasn't long before they were all seated at the table. Ron was eying the food appreciatively and it was all he could do to hold himself back. Before they began to eat, Harry cleared his throat and stood up. Hermione lowered her hand to her lap and turned her ring once more.

“Hermione and I have an announcement to make, and that is why we asked Mrs. Weasley to gather everyone together.”

“And this can't wait until after we eat?” asked Ron frowning at Harry.

Ginny, who was sitting next to him, smacked him in the arm. “Don't be an insensitive git, Ron! Harry has never interrupted one of our meals before, so this must be important.”

“Yeah, but I'm starving. Can't I eat while he talks?” he insisted.

Hermione rolled her eyes, Ginny shook her head, Luna just smiled serenely as if the situation was a common occurrence (which, of course, it was), and Fred threw a roll in Ron's direction, hitting him in the forehead. George gave him a high five.

“Ronald Weasley,” his mother said in that tone of hers they all knew so well and he immediately blushed. “Surely you can wait a moment. It's not like you're dying of starvation since I caught you more than once stealing food from the kitchen while I was cooking it.”

“I promise this won't take long,” Harry said trying to salvage the situation.

“Go on, dear,” Mrs. Weasley encouraged him and her husband nodded.

He pulled on Hermione's hand and she stood as well, making sure to conceal her ring for a few more seconds. “I'm not sure if this will come as a surprise or not, since everyone seemed to be aware of it before the two of us, but Hermione and I are together now.”

There were nods all around and a few jesting comments from the twins. Once the laughter had died down, Harry continued.

“Since I love her, and lucky for me, she returns my feelings, I've asked Hermione to marry me and she has accepted,” Harry said smiling at them and then turned to look at the love of his life. Hermione smiled back and kissed his cheek lovingly.

The table erupted in applause, squeals, questions and delighted laughter. Even Ron stopped looking longingly at the food and smiled at them.

“When's the happy occasion?” Mrs. Weasley wanted to know after congratulating them and telling them how happy she was with the news.

“In six months, since we see no point in waiting longer than that,” Harry told them.

“Let's see the ring!” Ginny said looking at Hermione.

Hermione finally lifted her hand and there were gasps from all of the females at the table, while the men looked at Harry and nodded their approval. He knew he had scored big all around. When he had gone ring shopping, that particular ring had screamed out her name and he had not bothered looking at the price or at others. He'd even had the words forever engraved on the inside of the band. Hermione had loved that detail.

“We want to have the wedding at Hogwarts and have Professor McGonagall officiate the ceremony. Then, if it's okay with you and Mr. Weasley, we'd love to have the reception here at the Burrow,” Hermione said when the squeals and questions had finally died down and they were all once more sitting down.

“It would be an honor, Hermione, and we are more than happy to host the wedding reception here. Molly likes nothing better than to have a house full of happy people,” Mr. Weasley told her.

“I'll get in touch with your mother, Hermione, and we'll start planning everything right away. You just tell us what you want and we will get it done. I know how busy your work keeps you and you are going to need all the help you can get since we only have six months to prepare. Oh, kids, this is just so exciting!” she finished beaming at them, happy tears in her eyes.

“We were hoping you would say that Mrs. Weasley,” Harry said looking at her and smiling.

“Will you two stop calling me Mrs. Weasley already? It has been years and it makes me feel so old. Why don't you call me Molly? The same goes for Arthur. You're family to us.”

“Okay, Mrs. Wea—I mean, Molly,” Harry said blushing a bit.

“Can we eat now, please?” Ron moaned. He was hit by another roll, and this time it was George and the roll hit him on the nose.

Before a food fight could erupt, Arthur gave the okay and Ron wasted no time piling his plate high. It seemed to hold together and not spill on the table by sheer magic.

~*~

Later, while the boys played a game of quidditch, Hermione sat with Luna and Ginny under the shade of a tree and watched them play.

“I still can't believe he proposed so soon. I knew he was in love with you for ages, Hermione, but it still caught me by surprise,” Ginny told her friend.

“It took me by surprise as well. I did not expect it either. He proposed Friday night after you lot left and we told my parents yesterday.”

“How did they take the news?” Luna asked her.

“They were both so happy for us. Told us they had been expecting the news for some time, since they knew we have loved each other a long time. We went to dinner and then we spent the night there. The biggest surprise of the night was when they told us we could sleep in the same room,” Hermione finished smiling.

“Your parents are good people, Hermione, and our mothers are going to have the time of their lives planning your wedding,” Ginny said.

“I know it. And I am going to be happy letting them plan away. Molly was right; we are going to need all the help we can get to get this wedding planned in just six months.”

“It's going to be beautiful. And once Molly finishes planning yours, she can start on Ron's and mine. Who knows, maybe six months after that, we'll be planning Ginny's as well.”

“Wouldn't it be nice? We all get married within a year and a half of each other and live happily ever after,” Ginny told them and smiled warmly at her friends.

“Since we're on the subject of weddings, there's something I wanted to ask of both of you,” Hermione started. “You both know I love you like sisters, right?”

Ginny and Luna both nodded at her. “It's mutual. Like you, I had no sisters or brothers growing up and Ginny and you have become family to me.”

“Glad to hear that. Harry and I talked and we decided together on this. I'd love it if both of you would be my maids of honor,” Hermione said looking at both of her friends.

Flying overhead, Harry turned at the squeals he heard coming from the ground. He looked in time to see Luna and Ginny throw themselves at Hermione, enveloping her in a huge hug that sent them all tumbling to the ground between tears and laughter. He smiled at them, knowing Hermione had just asked her sisters of the heart to become their maids of honor.

He took a deep breath that expanded his chest. He felt at peace with the world and his heart was overflowing with joy. He looked up at the sky and sent a prayer of thanks to his parents, knowing they were happy for him as well.

“Oi! Get your head back in the game, Potter. You look like a git gazing up at the heavens while there's a snitch with your name on it flying around,” Ron yelled at him.

“Why don't you find it yourself if you want it so much, you prat!” Harry yelled back cheerfully.

Life was definitely good in Harry Potter's world.

~*~

Hermione was sitting down at the table, drinking a cup of tea and reading the front page of The Quibbler later on that week. She smiled when she saw the headline and the picture of her and Harry, arms around each other, beaming at the camera. They had given Luna the go-ahead to confirm their relationship and upcoming wedding plans. Luna had been ecstatic. The huge headline made her laugh. Leave it to Luna to put her own special spin on things. The editors at the Prophet were probably having a coronary that same instant.

THE CHOSEN ONE HAS PROPOSED AND HERMIONE GRANGER SAID YES! MR. POTTER CONFIRMED THAT HIS HAPPINESS WHEN MS. GRANGER SAID YES CAN ONLY BE COMPARED TO LIBERATING OUR WORLD OF VOLDEMORT OR CATCHING THE GOLDEN SNITCH TO WIN THE WORLD CUP, BOTH OF WHICH HE HAS ACCOMPLISHED IN HIS SHORT LIFE. CONGRATULATIONS TO THEM BOTH!

Hermione was sure Harry would love the headline and accompanying article once he came down and read it. She picked up her cell phone and called her sister. Luna deserved to be congratulated for her wonderful job.

~*~

A/N: I hope you enjoyed it. Up next, wedding plans and the wedding of the year!

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Disclaimer: If it were mine, the crapilogue would have never happened. Enough said.

A/N: Enjoy!

Loving Vows

“I'm exhausted!” Hermione said as she dropped the bags she was carrying on the loveseat and walked over to Harry and sat down on his lap.

Harry smiled and leaned back against the sofa, bringing her back with him. He wrapped his arms around her waist and just let her cuddle for a few minutes. She put one arm around his neck and rested her head against his shoulder.

During the past six months, Hermione had been running around between St. Mungos, The Burrow, and all over London. Mrs. Granger and Mrs. Weasley had been doing a lot of running around also, helping her as promised with every wedding detail. Luna and Ginny had helped tremendously as well and Harry was grateful Hermione had all the help she seemed to need.

He had tried to help as much as he could, but he soon noticed that women were better suited to plan a wedding than men were. Therefore, he did the best he could to help, which included having a hot meal waiting for her when she got home and plenty of back and feet rubs. She seemed more than happy with that. With the help of Mr. Weasley, Ron, and Neville, Harry had help erect a tent and a dance floor on the Burrow's garden where the reception would be held. Professor McGonagall, with the help of Dobby, had made the preparations of the Great Hall at Hogwarts. Dobby had been more than happy to help his dear Harry Potter and his beautiful bride-to-be. Hermione had even shrunk some dress robes for him to wear, and after many tears of happiness, Dobby had accepted the gift as a token of her gratitude.

“It's going to be over this weekend, love. And once it is over, I am taking you to the south of France for that holiday you promised me after that whole fiasco with the twins. Don't think I forgot about that,” Harry told her.

Hermione lifted her head from his shoulder, a look of disbelief on her face. “Are you serious?”

“Yes, I am. In fact, I already booked the tickets and we are going to be staying in a villa facing the ocean for two weeks. Your secretary has even cleared your calendar and there will not be any problems with you taking the time off. We leave the night of the wedding.”

“Oh, Harry, you are the most wonderful man I know. It is going to be such a pleasure being your wife. I hope nothing ever changes.”

She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him lovingly. As she kissed him, she turned her body around and straddled his lap. Kissing at home always led to more, tiredness aside, and this time it was no exception.

Later, as they cuddled in bed, Harry turned to her and smiled. “I cooked your favorite today. Do you think you'll have the energy to go down and eat, or do you want me to bring it up?”

“It would be kind of decadent eating in bed, don't you think?”

“What better reason than that to do it? We can even watch a movie while we eat. I really want you to forget the wedding plans this evening and just concentrate on relaxing with me. Go take a quick shower and I'll get things ready.”

“You are too good to me, Mr. Potter.”

“I love you, is all. I guess it comes natural to take care of you, just like you've been taking care of me for so long.”

Hermione kissed him and then he was gone before he was tempted to ravish her luscious body once more. She did as he asked and went into the shower. Twenty minutes later, she was putting a movie in the player when Harry came in levitating two trays.

After Hermione was finished setting up the movie, they sat against the headboard and Hermione looked down at her tray.

“I'm starving and you made all of my favorites. You do know I'm planning on keeping you forever, right?”

“I was hoping you'd say that!”

“Is there dessert for later?”

“There's a bottle of chocolate syrup and some whipped cream in the fridge waiting for you.”

“What is it going to top? Cake or ice cream?”

“You.”

“Oh.”

~*~

“Are you ready, mate? This is it, the big day,” Ron told Harry as he adjusted his tie. “You look good.”

“Ah, thanks Ron. I'm glad you approve. I think you look better, though. That tuxedo is a huge improvement over the dress robes you wore in fourth year. Black definitely suits you better!”

“Must you always remind me of that? I'll never live that down. My mum has no idea how she destroyed my reputation that year. I must have been the oddest looking bloke in that ball.”

“Well, actually, you're still an oddball.”

Ron punched Harry's arm. “Shut it, you git.”

“If I bruise, I'm sending Hermione after you,” Harry said rubbing his arm.

“Going to hide behind her skirt from now on like a little brat, are you?” Ron asked teasingly.

“You better believe it. She does have a delectable backside!”

“Oh, come on, mate. Don't say things like that in front of me.”

“You're right for once, Ron. If I ever catch you looking at my wife's bum I'm hexing you to pieces!”

“Yeah, I'm scared now, wonder wizard.”

“You two are still at it?” Neville asked as he walked back into the room. “You do know the wedding is going to start in less than ten minutes, right?”

Harry raised his eyebrows. “I'm going to become a respectable man!”

“No, actually, you're still going to be the same insufferable prat. Hermione is just going to be an improvement in your life. She's actually doing you a favor by marrying you.”

“Oh, like Luna paying you attention hasn't done wonders for you! If it weren't for her taking pity on your poor soul, you'd be begging witches to go out with you,” Harry answered back.

“That's enough, you two. Both of you are acting like gits, but I guess it is all right since you are both nervous. Let's go to the Great Hall. Everything is in place and Professor McGonagall has sent for you,” Neville interrupted before their teasing escalated to more.

“Neville is right, Ron, we better go down. Do you have the ring?” Harry asked giving himself one more look in the mirror.

“I have it right here, mate, don't you worry. And you look fine, stop looking in the mirror.”

Harry turned back and looked at his best friend. “This is it mate; I'm going to marry the love of my life.”

“You're one lucky bloke, Harry. Before we go, there's something I wanted to tell you though.”

“What's that?”

“You know I love you, right?”

Harry smiled at him. “I love you too, Ron.”

“Good. Now listen up, since I'm only going to say this once. If you ever hurt Mione, or you make her cry unnecessarily, I will hurt you.”

“I know, Ron. I'd be the first one knocking on your door so you can beat me. I don't plan on ever hurting her, but I appreciate your gesture. It means a lot to me.”

Harry opened his arms and they hugged. Neville smiled at the pair of them and joined the hug.

“Come on then, let's get you properly married, Mr. Potter,” Ron said and Harry nodded. They left the room and started walking over to the Great Hall.

~*~

“Oh, darling, you look absolutely beautiful. That gown looks perfect on you. Harry is one lucky man.”

“Thanks, mum, but stop before you make me cry again. If Ginny has to fix my make-up one more time, she's going to hex me.”

Hermione stood in front of the mirror and she had to admit to herself that she looked lovely. There hadn't been that many opportunities to dress up in her life, and this one was by far the best. Ginny had done her make-up and her hair and she had outdone herself. Instead of the traditional wizarding gown, she had opted for a muggle one and she had no regrets about making that decision now. Even Mrs. Weasley had been impressed by the details on the gown. Ginny had put her hair up, and there were a few loose tendrils framing her face. Her make-up was simple, yet it accentuated all of her best features.

Ginny and Luna looked spectacular in their dresses and she could not be more pleased with the results. They had chosen burgundy, ivory and gold as the main colors of the wedding and the results were amazing. Hermione had the chance to go over everything before getting ready and she was astounded at how good everything looked. Bill and Fleur's little girl, Isabelle, looked amazing in a replica of Hermione dress and she was excited to be the flower girl. Luna and Ginny were dressed in burgundy, their dresses matching Neville and Ron's vests and ties. Harry's vest and tie matched Hermione's ivory gown. Hermione could not wait to see them, since she was sure they all looked drop-dead gorgeous in their black tuxedos.

The Great Hall was decorated with ivory and burgundy calla lilies and orchids. Candles floated overhead and soft music was playing while the guest waited anxiously for what was being called the wedding of the year. Luna had her staff ready to take pictures and interview guest, since The Quibbler was the only news media allowed to cover the event. The Prophet had in fact tried to get into the action, but since they always had something negative to say, their sales had dropped. In The Quibbler's side, it had been the total opposite as sales had increased, since Luna had devoted a corner in the society pages to cover the details of the weeding.

Luna and Ginny finally walked back into the room and stood there looking at Hermione, mouths agape and not a word coming from their parted lips. Hermione had asked them to leave the room until she finished getting ready with her mum's help since she wanted to surprise them. The only one allowed in the room for a while had been the photographer.

“You look absolutely gorgeous,” Ginny said as she finally walked over and stood facing Hermione. “Oh, Hermione, Harry is just going to faint when he sees you.”

“She's right, you know. He won't be able to pay attention to McGonagall since he's going to be staring at you dumbfounded the entire time,” Luna added with her trademark smile in place. “You look stunning.”

Hermione's eyes threatened to fill with tears once more, but she blinked them furiously back. “Thank you,” she whispered in a broken voice.

Mrs. Weasley walked in at that point and gasped. “My dear child, look at you! You are a vision of beauty,” she gushed.

Hermione smiled her thanks while the photographer captured every expression on their faces. At that point, there was a faint crack and Dobby appeared before all of them. He saw Hermione and his eyes filled with tears. Hermione thought he looked so cute in his tuxedo, huge eyes and all.

“Miss Hermione, Dobby has been sent to tell you everything is ready.”

“We are ready also, Dobby. We'll be down shortly. And by the way, you look very handsome,” she told him with a smile.

“Harry Potter is one lucky wizard, Miss Hermione. He is going to be happy when you walk into the Great Hall. You look beautiful.”

“Thank you, Dobby.”

“Dobby will go down and let the others know you are coming soon. Dobby is grateful to be a part of Harry Potter and Miss Hermione's wedding.”

“We're happy to have you here, Dobby. We love you.”

His big, fat tears fell then and he was gone with another crack after bowing to her. Mrs. Granger suppressed a smile. She had seen so many things that were unfamiliar to her by then, that she hardly reacted anymore. She thought it was amazing how well her daughter seemed to fit in with it all. She was also aware of how much the wizarding community appreciated her daughter and how much she was loved and respected by her friends and peers. She'd never felt more proud of her daughter as she did now.

There was a soft knock on the door and Mrs. Weasley went to answer it. Hermione's dad stood there, looking quite nervous and excited. Mrs. Weasley let him in and he stopped as if frozen when he saw his little girl.

“Darling,” was all he managed to whisper.

Hermione's tears fell then, and she figured Ginny would forgive her this time. She threw her arms around her father and he hugged her tightly. “Daddy.”

He stepped back and looked at her again. “I've never seen you look so beautiful before. You remind me so much of your mother on our wedding day. I'm so proud of you, darling.”

“Thank you, daddy.”

“Are you ready then? There's an anxious young man downstairs just dying to see you.”

“I'm ready.”

Ginny fixed her make-up quickly and they all left the room, photographer in tow, clicking madly away.

~*~

“Bloody hell, mate, settle down! Dobby already told you she's coming,” Ron said exasperated when he saw Harry checking his watch one more time. He had checked it not thirty seconds before.

“Yeah, just wait until it's your turn, and then we'll see how you handle it.”

“Harry, she should be here any minute,” Neville said to calm him down. “She'd never miss this.”

Professor McGonagall suddenly appeared next to them and took her place. She smiled warmly at Harry. “She's coming. We're about to begin, Harry.”

Harry paled a bit, but straightened himself as Neville and Ron patted his back. Soft music started playing and the Great Hall doors opened to reveal Isabelle, flower basket in hand, smiling broadly. She started walking slowly towards them, dropping flower petals as she did so. Luna followed her, smiling serenely, looking beautiful and collected. Ginny followed, and her smile could have lit the room. The doors closed once again while the three reached the front. They took their places and then the music changed. Everyone stood up and Harry took a deep breath once the doors opened again. There stood the love of his life, more beautiful than he had ever seen her, in the arms of her proud father. There was a collective gasp from the wedding guests, followed by quiet murmurs of appreciation.

Even from afar, Hermione locked her eyes with Harry's and her heart swelled with love. He smiled at her and she smiled back. Their day had finally come. After what seemed like an eternity, they reached the front and Harry stepped forward.

“I trust that you will love and cherish her for the rest of your days,” Mr. Granger told Harry as they faced each other.

Harry nodded seriously at him. “I made you a promise and I always keep them,” he told him and shook his hand.

Mr. Granger nodded and turned to face Hermione. “I love you, darling. More than you will ever know. And I am happy you're marrying Harry.”

Hermione just nodded and kissed his cheek. She could not speak passed the lump in her throat. Mr. Granger took her hand and kissed it, then placed it on Harry's hand, squeezing them with both of his.

“Love each other,” he said and finally turned to go and sit by his wife. When he noticed her tears, he took his handkerchief out and handed it to her. She smiled gratefully at him and he put his arm around her shoulder as they faced the front again.

~*~

Harry looked at Hermione and couldn't help but smile down at her. “You look so beautiful, my love.”

“Thank you, Harry.”

They turned to face Professor McGonagall and she smiled proudly at both of them. They both noticed her eyes seemed brighter than ever. She turned to the wedding guests and silence finally fell around the room.

“Are you ready?” she asked looking back at them.

They both nodded at her. “I'll go first,” Harry said to her. At her nod, he turned to face Hermione.

“Never in my life did I imagine I could be as happy as I am at this moment. I look back at the past fifteen years and there isn't a moment you weren't by my side, supporting me, trusting me, and saving me from myself. I've been in love with you for as long as I can remember, and while it took all this time for us to be together, I pledge to you my undying love, loyalty, and friendship. I love you more than words or actions can even express and I intend to show you just how I feel until the day I die. I am the luckiest man alive because you love me. I am going to be so proud to have you, Hermione Jane Granger, as my wife.”

There wasn't a dry eye in the hall at that point, Hermione included. Harry's eyes also filled with tears as he looked at her, all of the love he felt reflected in his bright green eyes. The professor took out a handkerchief out of her formal robes and dabbed at the corner of her eyes. She turned to Hermione and she nodded.

Hermione faced Harry and cleared her throat a bit. Taking a deep and fortifying breath, she smiled at Harry.

“I think I've loved you since you saved me from that troll in our first year!” There was collective laughter at her words before she was able to continue. “I think you also saved me from myself. You have been a constant influence in my life, and while I spent a lot of time bossing you around, you kept me sane and didn't let me go overboard. I am the person I am today because you love me. I love you, Harry James Potter, with every fiber of my being, with every beat of my heart, and with all of the passion a woman can feel for her man. I promise to love you and cherish you for as long as we both shall live. I am so lucky to have you.”

Harry lost his battle with his tears and they fell at that point. He squeezed her hands lovingly and his smile could have lit the room.

“Harry, please repeat these vows after me,” Professor McGonagall said to him after she had called Ron forward. He handed Hermione's wedding band to Harry and McGonagall proceeded to say the vows. Harry followed suit.

"I, Harry James Potter, take you, Hermione Jane Granger, to be my wedded wife, and I do promise, before Merlin and these witnesses, to be your loving and faithful husband, in plenty and in want, in joy and in sorrow, in sickness and in health, as long as we both shall live."

Harry then placed the ring on Hermione's finger and kissed the back of her hand. Professor McGonagall smiled and then Ginny came forward and handed Hermione Harry's platinum band.

"I, Hermione Jane Granger, take you, Harry James Potter, to be my wedded husband, and I do promise, before Merlin and these witnesses, to be your loving and faithful wife, in plenty and in want, in joy and in sorrow, in sickness and in health, as long as we both shall live."

Hermione placed the ring on Harry's finger and smiled at him through her tears of joy.

“By the power invested in me by the Ministry of Magic, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Harry, you may kiss your bride!”

Harry wasted no time pulling Hermione closer to him and sealing their wedding vows with a loving kiss. Their wedding guests burst into applause. When he pulled apart, Professor McGonagall gave each a hug and a kiss and turned them to face the crowd.

“It is my sincere pleasure and it is with great pride and honor that I now present to you Mr. and Mrs. Harry James Potter.”

The applause and well wishes that ensued were thunderous.

~*~

A/N: I hope you like this one as much as I loved writing it. It was very sentimental for me since I love these two characters so much. Up next will be the wedding reception and the honeymoon in France. Cheers!

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Disclaimer: If it were mine, this would have really happened, since it makes so much sense!

A/N: This is the final chapter of this story. But who knows, a sequel could always follow! *winks*

And as always, thanks so much to the faithful readers that have stuck by my side during this time and continue giving me such thoughtful and wonderful reviews. This is for YOU!

Mon Amour

Ron tapped a spoon to his champagne glass as he stood up. Little by little, all heads turned towards him at the head table. The reception had been in full swing for a while, and the guests had danced and eaten to their hearts content. The wedding photographer and Luna's staff had a ball taking pictures and interviewing the guests. She was planning a special, commemorative issue of The Quibbler as her gift to the wedded couple. Ron cleared his throat and smiled at the crowd.

“I hope you are all comfortable, since you now have to suffer through a few speeches!” He waited for the crowd to finish laughing before he continued. “Since we are all such good friends, it was almost impossible for Harry and Hermione to pick just one maid-of-honor and one best-man without hurting someone's feelings. Smart as they are, they decided to have two a piece. And as is tradition, we all have to say something smart and meaningful. I'm going to let Neville go first, since he might be better prepared to do this, being a distinguish professor at Hogwarts and all.”

Neville smiled at Ron as he got up. “Hello and thank you, Ron! I don't really want to take a lot of time, so I'm going to go straight to the point here and leave the funny anecdotes to Ron. I met Hermione while searching for my frog, Trevor. I was scared, shy, and worried my grandmother would kill me for losing him on my way to Hogwarts for the first time. I'll never forget that act of kindness on her part, or her acts of kindness every year since. She never stopped, and even when she had to petrify me during that first year, she apologized first!”

Hermione laughed along with the rest of their guest as Neville continued singing their praises for several minutes. Harry was holding her hand, laughing his head off, and looking at her every now and then.

“After all of that I can only wish them all of the happiness and all of the love in the world. I don't think I've met two people more suited for each other as Harry and Hermione are. Even as I've been speaking, they have been speaking to each other with looks alone, so great is their connection. And it's always been like that.” He turned to look at the couple and raised his glass to them. “To you, my dear friends, for many happy years full of wonderful memories and for many more to come.”

“Thank you, Neville,” Harry and Hermione said raising their own glasses.

Luna got up then and looked at them, seeming to forget their audience. “I don't really have much to say, since you both know how I feel about you. I love you both as family and I treasure all of the memories we have created together. I didn't know what having friends was like until I met the lot of you and I am lucky to have you in my life. I hope your future is filled with love, kindness, and lots of happiness. And when little Emma comes a year from now, make sure to tell her Auntie Luna mentioned her today!”

Hermione gasped at her words and Harry's smile widened.

“I love you both dearly!” she said and sat down, her serene smile firmly in place, completely ignoring the looks of shock her announcement caused.

Ginny got up then and looked at the couple smiling. “Hermione, we've had this conversation before, but I wanted to mention it again, in front of all of these witnesses, so you know I mean it with all of my heart. Even though I was involved with Harry before you, his heart belonged to you all of these years. I knew it then, I know it now, and I am so happy for the both of you. You were meant to be together, and you are meant to love each other for the rest of your lives. There was never anyone else for him, and there will never be anyone else for you. Love like yours only comes around once in a lifetime and I am so glad you both opened your eyes in time and embraced it. So here we are now, celebrating your wonderful love and sharing this special day with you, and I want to wish you eternal happiness, everlasting love, and many passionate nights! I love you both with all of my heart,” she finished raising her glass.

Harry and Hermione both blew her a kiss and she blew one back. Ron got up again and smiled.

“I guess I was kind of daft letting the others go first, since they pretty much said everything I had written down. Now I don't know what to say without sounding unoriginal and like a git!”

More laughter accompanied his words and he was eating it up. Even Fred and George were smiling proudly at him.

“However, being the second best-man, it is my sworn duty to say something meaningful and beautiful to my best-friends,” he said and turned to face them. “I love you both more than words alone could ever say. Like Ginny, I knew all along that you would end up together once you both stopped being so stubborn and proud. The whole song and dance about losing your friendship if a relationship did not work out got tiresome after a while let me tell you. You're both lucky you got together when you did, as we were already gathering ingredients to brew the strongest love potion the wizarding world has ever seen. Even if Hermione came after our bits for it later!”

Hermione couldn't help laughing at his words, just like the rest of their guests. Some were laughing so hard that tears were coming down their cheeks as Ron continued with his wisecracks.

“I do not have to wish you happiness because you love making each other happy. I do not have to wish you a bright future because you already light each other's way. I don't have to tell you to take care of each other, because I've never seen two people more devoted to each other. And I don't have to wish you a future full of love, because the love you share already surpasses any and all expectations. When little Emma comes, and she will if Luna says so, she will have two of the best parents a child could ever hope for. And for that matter, two Godmothers and two Godfathers that are going to spoil her rotten and then send her home to mummy and papa! I love you both!”

Hermione got up and hugged him tightly. It would not have been right without one of her famous hugs. She dropped a quick kiss on his lips and whispered something in his ear, which made him laugh and blush a bit. Harry hugged him next, and they patted each other's back affectionately.

After the speeches, everyone raised their glasses and toasted to their happiness.

~*~

“Having fun, darling?” her dad asked her as they danced. Harry was dancing with her mum.

“Loads! I don't think I've even been happier, daddy. And after everything we've been through, I'm feeling so grateful that both of you are here sharing this special day with me.”

“Were there ever any doubts?”

“Yes. As long as Voldemort was alive, none of us had any guarantees of a happy ending. Now that he is gone, we've all been able to move on and make plans without having to worry about what the future holds.”

“One day, I'd like to know more about your life in the wizarding world. You have always been a bit quiet about it, and I know you did it to protect us, but I would like to know. Especially now that so many people have come up to your mum and I to congratulate us for having such a smart, courageous, and wonderful daughter. I can't say that I comprehend everything that has gone on, but I know how much these people love and respect you, darling, and I couldn't be more proud of you!”

“One of these days, once we settle down, Harry and I will tell you and mum as much as we can about what happened. I never meant to cut you out of my life, I was only protecting you.”

“We know and we love you for it.”

“Thanks, daddy. That means a lot to me.”

“And you mean the world to us. I can't wait to meet little Emma!”

Hermione smiled at that. “Can you just imagine me with child?” she asked raising her eyebrows.

“I can, and I know you will make a wonderful mum. And Harry will make a wonderful papa. And we are going to spoil our granddaughter silly!”

“I just bet you will. Ron was right, daddy, if Luna says little Emma is coming in a year, she will.”

“And how do you feel about becoming a mum so soon after getting married, darling?”

“I'm overwhelmed with happiness. Harry and I already talked about it and we want kids. Little Emma would just make our happiness complete.”

“Then I'm counting the days. If all goes well, next year we'll be celebrating an anniversary and her birth.”

Hermione moved closer to him and laid her head against his chest. “I love you, daddy.”

“I love you, too, princess.”

~*~

“Remind me again why we couldn't apparate to Cote d'Azur?”

“Because I want to do this the right way. I want you to have great memories of our honeymoon and I figured it would be fun for once to do things the muggle way.”

“Fine! Don't complain when I ravish you the moment we walk into the hotel then. I cannot believe you're going to make me wait that long.”

Harry smiled lovingly at his wife as they made their way through their designated gate. “That was my plan all along, love. And we aren't going to a hotel; we are staying at a Provencal style villa that's only minutes from Cote d'Azur and the beaches of Cannes. We have a staff that will cater to us, a private swimming pool, and little villages we can explore to our hearts content all around. There is even a city called Grasse famous for their perfumes in close proximity. I know just how much you love French perfume and I thought it would be perfect. You're going to love it!”

Hermione was impressed. “And how did you manage to do all this?”

“Fleur, of course. She offered to help once I told her what I had in mind. I know how much you love France, and the obvious choice was Paris, but I decided the beaches and towns of the south sounded more appealing for our honeymoon. I hope you approve once you see the place.”

“Oh, Harry, you never cease to amaze me, love. We can always go to Paris later.”

“We will. We are going to go see the world little by little, I promise you.”

“I love you, Harry James Potter.”

“And I love you, Hermione Jane Granger-Potter.”

“Granger-Potter?” she asked surprised.

“I wouldn't dream of you letting go of your family name because you married me. And our little ones are also going to carry both of our last-names. It's the only way to keep the Granger name from ending with you.”

“I don't mind Potter-Granger, Harry, I am proud to carry your name.”

“As you wish, love. And thank you for that.”

~*~

“Can you believe little Emma Potter-Granger will be here in a year?” Harry asked once they had settled in their first-class seats and were on their way to France.

“Luna is really something, isn't she? What do you think about the news?” Hermione asked as she cuddled close to him and leaned her head on his shoulder.

“It's going to be one long year, indeed,” he told her smiling as he kissed the top of her head.

“Are you happy then?”

“Couldn't be happier than I am at this moment, love. How about you?”

“I can't wait either. I was surprised by the announcement, but now that I've had time to think about it, I can't wait to meet our little girl. I hope she has your eyes.”

“As long as she has your smile I'm happy.”

“But not the bushy hair. Dear Merlin, can you imagine?”

“She would be the most beautiful child in the world to me. And I want her to have your intelligence, your kindness, and your love of learning.”

“And I want her to be brave and noble like her papa.”

“You do realize we are going to have the greatest kid in the world, right? She is going to be one powerful witch.”

“You might be right, love. She's is going to be a handful the likes of which Hogwarts has never seen,” Hermione said smiling at him. “I pity the professors already.”

“Wait until she meets up with Ron and Ginny's kids! They are going to be the holy terrors of Hogwarts! I hope that Minerva will be retired by then and Neville will be in charge. He'll know how to handle the lot of them!”

“That would be best. Otherwise Minerva will be sending us all owls daily.”

After talking for a while longer and having some tea, they fell asleep for the next couple of hours. After landing, they were met by their driver and soon were underway to their villa. Once there, an attentive staff that immediately took their belongings and quickly disappeared once they made sure they would not need anything else received them.

Harry really enjoyed watching Hermione speak to each of them in their native language and was surprised at how fluid she was. The holidays with her parents in previous years had really paid off.

“I really want to explore the house, love, but that can wait until tomorrow. Why don't you give me twenty minutes and then meet me in our room?” she asked as she ran a nail down his shirt.

“I have to wait that long?” he asked pouting.

“I waited an hour at the airport, three hours in the air, and another half-hour to get here. Surely you can wait twenty-minutes, Potter.”

“If I must,” he sighed dramatically, at which she pinched his arse and laughed at him.

“I promise to make it worth your while.”

“Witch.”

“That's me!” she said walking away after dropping and open-mouthed kiss on his lips. “Go take a shower in one of the guest bathrooms. But make sure it isn't cold.”

“Saucy wench,” he muttered under his breath as she disappeared down the tiled hall.

“I heard you,” she called back laughing.

He smiled as he walked in the same direction. A shower sounded good and would wake him up. He had a feeling his wife would keep him awake for the next few hours. His wife, he thought smiling. He really liked the sound of that.

~*~

Twenty minutes later, he found himself opening the door to their suite. He smiled at the site. She had lit aromatic candles all around the room, and the bed sheets had been turned down. He looked around for her and finally noticed that the door to the balcony was open. She was silhouetted against the moon, dressed in a white silky gown that reached her feet and molded to her body like a lover's caress. Her beauty enthralled him and his heart beat uncontrollably inside his chest. She smiled seductively at him and walked into the room, not stopping until she was mere inches from him.

He could smell her perfume. He could feel the heat radiating from her body. Her eyes were sultry and tempted him to move forward and make her his. He cupped her cheek softly with his hand and she leaned into his touch, closing her eyes.

“You are a vision of beauty, Mione. You take my breath away,” he whispered as he lowered his lips to hers.

The kiss started innocent enough, almost shy. She moved her hands slowly up his chest until she reached his hair and buried her fingers in his silky locks. His hands spanned her waist and he started moving backwards towards the bed.

He stopped when the back of his legs touched the mattress. He dropped a kiss on her forehead, then her closed eyelids, and then her mouth again. He devoured her for long minutes, taking his time to savor her, prolonging her pleasure.

He ran his hands over her breasts, nipples already hard and begging for attention. He kissed her neck, licking every sensitive spot he knew. All the while, she kissed him back, she moaned her pleasure, she asked for more. She took he gave. He took she gave. Before either of them knew it, their clothes had been removed and they stood naked, bodies hot and pressed against each other, hands searching and finding pleasure points.

“I want you, Harry,” she moaned against his chest, her tongue laving his nipples as he groaned in approval.

“You have me, love. You've always had me.”

“Make me yours, Harry.”

He lay down on the bed and she straddled his hips while looking down into his eyes. She took his hands and placed them over her breasts as she rubbed her wetness against his hardened sex. He shuddered as he caressed her breasts, fingers rolling her hard nipples. She moaned as she reached between them and grabbed him, her hand moving softly up and down.

Harry closed his eyes and savored the moment. He only wanted to feel. He only wanted to hear their moans and gasps. He wanted to remember every caress, every sigh and every whispered word. He was no longer making love to his lover. He was now making love to his wife.

Hermione had her eyes closed as well. She kept rubbing suggestively against him, moaning as his tip encountered her swollen sex. She was lost in sensations.

“I don't want to wait anymore, Harry. I need you inside of me,” she practically begged.

“Take me then,” he whispered as he opened his eyes, bright as she had ever seen them. He put his hands on her waist and lifted her.

With her hands, she gently guided him to her opening and he slid slowly into her. They both moaned at the sensation. He was so deep inside of her he though he would die of pleasure. She took a moment to get used to him, her insides expanding to accommodate him, before she started rolling her hips.

He sucked in his breath when she started moving against him. He sat up and kissed her while she moved softly up and down, making him crazy with need.

“I love you, Hermione,” he said looking into her eyes.

“And I love you, darling.”

He leaned back down and his fingers found her swollen clit, playing with it as she moved faster on top of him.

“Come for me, love,” he whispered a while later when he felt her inner muscles contracting against his shaft. He knew she was close by the way her breathing changed and her moaning increased.

“Oh, Harry,” she said as she bit her bottom lip, hips moving faster, head thrown back.

He was going to lose his mind, he thought as he watched her. She was so sexy, so explosive, so uninhibited in bed that it was all he could do to keep his sanity.

“Give me what I want, Harry,” she begged and he complied.

His fingers moved faster and so did his hips. A moment latter a guttural moan escaped her parted lips and she convulsed around him, taking him with her and making him come so hard he thought he would pass out from the sheer pleasure of it.

After, she lay spent on his chest while he caressed her back softly. No words were needed. Their hands were doing the talking. Harry thought that their souls had connected at some point during their lovemaking, since he had never felt closer to her than he did now. Hermione thought they had become one. They drifted off to sleep without meaning to, the events of the day finally catching up with them.

By the time late morning came, the lovers had not stirred and the staff knew better than to bother the newlyweds. They would appear when they were good and ready to and they would be waiting to meet their needs.

~*~

“I can't believe we have to leave tomorrow,” Hermione said as she cuddled next to Harry after making love with him.

“I know love, but we can always come back anytime we want. Next time we'll apparate and we won't waste anytime in airports, I promise.”

“Do you think we can spend the Christmas holidays here? We can even go skiing.”

“We'll come anytime you want love,” he said dropping a quick kiss on her lips.

Hermione smiled at him and kissed him back. He made a movement with his hand and the next thing she knew, a small box wrapped in silver and red ribbons appeared on his hand.

“What is it?” she asked curiously. He had already given her so many gifts during the past couple of weeks that she couldn't begin to imagine what it could be now.

“It's your wedding present, but I didn't want to give it to you until tonight,” he explained as he placed the small box on her hand.

Hermione sat up in bed, comfortable in her nakedness, and eagerly opened her present. She untied the ribbon and then took the top of the box off. Inside was a key. She frowned at it and then looked at him as she took the key from the box.

“What does it open?” she asked curiously.

“The front door,” he told her.

“Which front door?”

“The front door to this house.”

Her eyes widened in surprise. “This house?”

“Yes, love, we now have our own holiday villa in France and we can come over anytime you want.”

“Oh, Harry,” she whispered as tears filled her eyes. “When did you have time to do this?”

“Yesterday while you took an afternoon nap. I knew the villa was for sale when we came over, and I didn't say anything because I wanted to see if you liked it first. You seem to love it, since you have explored every inch of it, and I bought it yesterday.”

“But we already have the flat in London and the cottage,” she reminded him gently.

“I have to invest our money wisely, love, and owning properties is a good way of doing that. The staff will be here year round and we'll spend our time between London, the cottage, and this place.”

“I think it's brilliant. I cannot wait to invite our friends and family over. Can you imagine spending Christmas here with everyone this year?”

“I'm sure it can be arranged. You and the girls can plan it all. Just remember you'll be around three months by then,” he reminded her as he placed a loving hand over her flat stomach. “This ring is going to have to go, love.”

She eyed her belly ring fondly and nodded. “It was fun having it, and you've had plenty of fun with it, so I guess it's all right.”

“You'll still have the tattoo.”

“Yes, and I love it.”

“You should do another one,” he suggested.

“Where?”

“Right here,” he said running his fingers under her belly.

“And what should I get this time?” she asked, knowing he was only kidding her.

“It should be an arrow pointing down and say `Harry's Property, Do Not Touch' right above it,” he said smiling at her.

She laughed at him. “Are you going to get one in the same place that says `This belongs to Mione, stay away'?

His smile was immediate. “Maybe!”

“Liar,” she said laughing harder.

After laughing with her and kissing her senseless, he looked into her eyes. “You do know your name is tattooed on my heart, right?”

“Just like yours is tattooed on mine.”

“Are you happy to be my wife?”

“I've never been happier about anything else in my life. Are you happy to be my husband?”

“Words cannot describe how I feel about it, Mione. Not even defeating him felt this good. And when little Emma comes into our lives, I will be the happiest and luckiest man alive.”

“I think I can make you feel lucky right now,” she whispered as she kissed her way down his chest.

Lucky indeed, he thought as he leaned back and closed his eyes. It was not much later that his wife was feeling like the luckiest woman in the world as well.

Love was grand.

~*~

The End.

~*~

A/N: Well, I hope you enjoyed it. I know I did. When I'm smiling as I'm writing, it is a good day indeed (or middle of the night). As I said before, if you're all interested, a sequel could be written in the future. Little Emma sounds positively adorable, don't you think? Until the next time, take care of you. Cheers!

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