Disclaimer: I own nothing you recognize; if you don't recognize something, I made it up. Any similarities are purely coincidental; the only thing I get from writing is satisfaction. The title is taken from a song by 3 of Hearts, from the movie Where the Heart Is, the refrain inspiring the plot a bit.
Chapter 5
Harry and Hermione got to Mike and Ike's around 2130, after a quick stop at the house so Harry and Hermione could each change into more party-appropriate clothing; non-matching this time.
When they arrived, it sounded as though the party was already in full swing. Harry didn't even try to use Alohomora; he just opened the door for Hermione and followed her in.
They walked through the hallway and into the main living area, greeted by the sight of about 35 people, standing in a few groups, laughing and drinking.
"Harry, you made it!" someone called, coming towards them.
"Hey Mike," Harry answered the broad-shouldered squat blond guy that appeared. "Good turnout so far, eh?"
"Well, we certainly tried. Although all you really need is a few chicks and tons of booze," Mike responded. "Things have a way of, ahem, working out, if you know what I mean," he added, winking suggestively and nudging Harry, who at least had the decency to look a little uncomfortable with the insinuation.
"I see you've brought company." Mike had taken notice of the pretty brunette in the yellow tank and knee-length jean skirt standing next to Harry, looking as though she wished she were anywhere but there.
"Hello," he said, turning to the girl. "You must be Maddy. It's nice to finally meet the girl who captured the elusive Harry Potter's heart. I'm Mike," he added, extending his hand.
"Um, actually, this is Hermione," Harry corrected as Hermione reached for Mike's hand awkwardly.
"Ooooooh, so this is the lovely Hermione Granger," Mike said eagerly, turning her hand over to kiss it. "Enchante, madamoiselle. Harry has spoken of you often, but he never mentioned how beautiful you are."
"Um, thanks," Hermione answered uncertainly. "I think," she added softly.
Harry took notice of his friend's body language and put his hands on her shoulders. "Let's go get something to drink and mingle," he interjected. "We'll be back in a bit," he added, steering Hermione away from Mike.
"Sorry about that," Harry said apologetically. "When he's been drinking, Mike gets a little---um---er .."
"Forward," Hermione supplied helpfully.
"Raging horn-ball is more like it," Harry stated. "You'd better watch out for him."
Hermione looked like she was thinking, a slow grin spreading on her face. "Perhaps, but I can take care of myself," she said mischievously. "Maybe you should warn him to stay away from me."
Harry shook his head. "I don't doubt it." He smiled suddenly. "Come on, let's get something to drink." He grabbed her hand and led her to the kitchen.
"What would you like?" he asked, gesturing to the bottles scattered on the counter.
"Um, an amaretto sour, I guess, but I don't know how to make one, do you?" Hermione asked.
"No need. It's all under control. Watch," Harry answered. "One amaretto sour and a pint of Guinness," he said clearly to the quill and parchment that materialized next to them upon entering the kitchen.
The quill wrote down their drink order and disappeared with a *snap*. Hermione watched in disbelief as the bottles began levitating and pouring themselves into a glass, which shook itself to mix the ingredients. When the drink was ready, the glass, adorned with a straw and orange slice, floated to her. She took it uncertainly and hesitantly brought it to her lips. A huge smile broke out on her face.
"Wow! I think this is the best drink I've ever had!" she said.
"Pretty cool, huh?" Harry said, taking a long drink of his ale. "Oh, that hits the spot."
Hermione wrinkled her nose at the amber liquid in Harry's glass. "Ew. How can you drink that stuff? It's so bitter and disgusting."
Harry laughed good-naturedly. "It's not that bad. Scratch that. Once you get used to it, it's not that bad. Definitely an acquired taste though."
"There's no way I'll ever like ale or beer. Gross," Hermione stated.
"C'mon. We have drinks, let's go mingle," Harry said.
"Can't I have more to drink first?" Hermione pleaded.
"I thought you were a Gryffindor?" Harry teased.
"Yes, but we're not at Hogwarts anymore," Hermione retorted.
Harry rolled his eyes in response. "Come on, you big baby! There are quills and parchment floating around, charmed to appear to anyone not holding a cup," Harry explained. "So when you're done with a drink, just put the cup down and you'll get another visit. When you've decided you need a break or have had enough, just hang on to your cup. Otherwise, the quill will just follow you around," he finished.
"Experience drinking here much?" It was Hermione's turn to tease.
"Once is more than enough," Harry answered. "But you'd better watch it, or I may sic Mike on you. Or, better yet, my entire team," he added, a playful glint in his eye.
"Hmm, five guys. That could be fun," Hermione countered slyly.
"Sorry to burst your bubble, but it's only four; five would be including me," Harry corrected.
"You did say the entire team. Are you not part of the team anymore? Did they find someone better than the great Harry Potter?" Hermione faked surprise.
"Shut it, you," Harry growled, a grin playing at his lips. "Let's go, funny girl."
No sooner than they had stepped back into the main living area that a swarm of people flocked to them. Harry protectively encircled Hermione with his arms to ensure she would not be separated from him.
Shouts and greetings came from all directions as Harry and Hermione were surrounded. Hermione, a little taken back by the throng of people, moved even closer to Harry.
"Potter! We were wondering where you ran off to. Mike said you were here with this hot chick. Figured you'd already made off with her for the evening," a lanky redhead stated with a smirk.
A blonde-haired girl with brown eyes smacked him. "Ike, don't be crude." She extended her hand. "I'm Jocelyn, Ike's sister."
Harry took her hand. "I'm Harry. This is Hermione," he said. "And I am terribly sorry he is related to you," he added, his emerald eyes twinkling playfully.
"Thanks," Jocelyn replied dryly. "I'll take all the sympathy I can get."
"Hey!" Ike exclaimed. "I am standing right here!"
"And your point is…?" Jocelyn teased.
"On top of his head," Harry supplied with a smirk.
Ike stuck his tongue out at the pair as everyone around laughed. "Why does everyone gang up on me?" he grumbled.
"I do it because I can, big brother," came Jocelyn's answer.
Throughout this exchange Hermione had remained silent, finishing her drink somewhat quickly and ordering another. Normally she wasn't much of a drinker, but she wanted to loosen up a bit and have fun. She was feeling nervous and a little out of place; everyone seemed to know everyone else there and she only knew Harry.
As if sensing her discomfort, Harry squeezed her waist and pulled her closer. He ducked his head and whispered, his breath tickling her ear. "Smile. Relax a little and smile that beautiful smile of yours. Everyone will love you and I promise not to let you out of my sight." He straightened up and gave her a one-armed hug.
Hermione looked up and smiled, mouthing "Thank you." Harry winked in return and tuned back to the conversation, which had turned to -what else- Quidditch.
Hermione made a face that went ignored by everyone but Jocelyn, who motioned for Hermione to follow her. "I don't care much for Quidditch talk. Do you?" she asked Hermione, once out of earshot.
"Not really," was Hermione's answer, grateful for someone to talk to. "I love watching it though. It's very exciting to go to matches and I'll even sit through the occasional practice. But talking about tactics and strategies makes me want to cover my ears and run!"
Jocelyn laughed. "Yeah, me too. Ike has been obsessed with Quidditch forever. He used to make me practice with him."
Hermione grinned. "Harry tried that with me once. He spent more time trying to catch me than the Snitch," she joked. "For some reason he never asked again."
"Hmm…I should try that when I come to visit. Then I won't have to waste time playing when I could be shopping," Jocelyn said thoughtfully.
"Where are you visiting from?" Hermione asked.
"I moved to Ireland, near Dublin, to go to university. I'm majoring in Muggle Studies, then I hope to go into the Ministry," Jocelyn answered. "I'm back for the summer."
"Cool. I'm almost done with university. I have just one year left, majoring in psychology. Then maybe med or healing school," Hermione shrugged. "Or maybe not."
"Is that where you met Harry?" Jocelyn asked.
"No, I've known Harry since we were eleven. We went through Hogwarts together," Hermione replied.
"Cool. I went to Beauxbatons myself," Jocelyn responded. "So how long have you two been together?" she asked, blushing slightly.
Hermione glanced at her raven-haired best friend, who was currently talking to a small group of people, gesturing wildly and grinning like crazy. She smiled at how animated he was before turning back to Jocelyn.
"We're not `together'. Harry's my best friend. We also share a house with our other best friend," Hermione answered carefully. `Great', she groaned inwardly. `Here it comes.'
"Is he dating anyone?" Jocelyn asked, getting even redder.
`And there it goes,' Hermione thought angrily. Before she could answer, a tall guy with light brown hair came up to Jocelyn and pinched her rear.
Jocelyn whirled around, ready to hex whoever it was. Her eyes lit up, however, and she threw her arms around the guy and gave him a quick kiss. She turned back to Hermione, her face flushed with excitement.
"Hermione, this is my boyfriend, Chris," she said brightly. "Chris, this is Hermione."
"Nice to meet you," Hermione said, smiling.
"Likewise," Chris answered. "So which one do you belong to?" he asked, waving his hand to indicate to the group behind them.
"Chris!" Jocelyn admonished.
Hermione giggled. "That's ok. It was like that with the other team, too. I'm with the new seeker."
Chris was too busy staring at the group to hear her. "Bloody hell! Harry Potter!" Chris stated. "Who knows him? How did he hear about this party? Wow, Harry Potter." Chris was completely and totally star-struck.
Harry chose that moment to look up and check on Hermione. She caught his eye and beckoned him over. He excused himself from the conversation and walked toward the trio.
"Oh my gosh, he's coming over. Anyone have a pen and parchment?" Chris asked excitedly, sounding very much like a teenage girl.
Harry walked up to Hermione and hugged her from behind. "Hey, you. Having fun?" he asked.
"Uh huh. I just wanted you to meet someone," Hermione stated. "Harry, this is Chris, Jocelyn's boyfriend. Chris, this is Harry Potter."
Keeping one arm wrapped around Hermione, Harry offered his other hand. "Hey. Good to meet you."
Chris looked at Harry's smiling face, then at his hand and back again. "Um, er…"
"Chris!" Jocelyn hissed, elbowing him in the side. This action startled him out of his stupor.
"Um, hi," Chris said, finally taking Harry's hand. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you. I've followed you ever since you left Hogwarts and walked onto Woollongong's team. I'm glad you decided to come back and play for England."
Harry's smile widened. "Yeah, me too. Australia was great and all, but there's no place like home," he replied, giving Hermione a quick squeeze.
This action and Hermione's response, snuggling, albeit briefly, into Harry's chest, didn't go unnoticed by Jocelyn. She smirked knowingly and made a mental note.
"So, Chris, why don't you join the fellas and I?" Harry offered. "Get away from the hair and nail club," he added, winking at Jocelyn and tightening his arms around Hermione to prevent her from twisting away.
Harry laughed as Hermione struggled, but he just held on tight. Finally he let go. "Be good," he said, dropping a kiss on the top of her head. He then began walking back to his teammates, Chris in tow.
"We're not going to see those guys for the rest of the night, are we?" Hermione asked in mock sadness.
"Nope. They're going to talk about Quidditch for a while, and drink some ale. After a little while, someone'll suggest taking shots. Then they get a little frisky. Better watch yourself at this point," Jocelyn warned. "They'll start dancing, which is pretty entertaining in itself. Someone usually starts up drinking games and whatnot. All-in-all, everyone becomes horribly drunk; half the people pass out in random parts of the house and the other half can't Apparate for fear of being splinched." Jocelyn paused to take a much-needed breath.
"Sounds like you've been to one of these before," Hermione joked.
"Yeah, well, somehow every party involving Mike and Ike, no matter where it's held, ends up the same way," Jocelyn answered. "It's actually quite fun…until the fan club shows up. Then it all goes downhill."
"Fan club?" Hermione questioned.
"I prefer the term `Quidditch Bitches'," Jocelyn explained. "They only come to these parties to pretend to get drunk and then jump into the sack with the first person who looks at them or asks.
"During that time, you'd better not let Harry out of your sight. They won't care if he's got a girlfriend or not and he may be too drunk to say no," she advised.
"You know all this from experience, I presume?" Hermione guessed.
"Unfortunately, yes," came the answer. "Although dancing is fun, cause I get to do what I like."
"Me too," Hermione agreed. "I love to dance, I just never really get the opportunity."
"Ha, you like it now. But just wait `til you've got some drunken guy stepping all over your feet while trying to feel you up," Jocelyn stated.
"Where do I sign up?" Hermione asked mischievously.
Jocelyn laughed. "I can see why Harry likes you," she said casually enough.
Before Hermione could get indignant, Jocelyn continued. "Oops, I forgot you said you weren't together. You never did answer whether or not he's dating anyone."
"Don't you read The Quibbler? I think he's dating two girls, twins, mind you, and has six children by six different women," Hermione said innocently.
"Now that you mention it, I do recall reading that somewhere," Jocelyn joked back, grinning. "What's the reality?"
"He's a very sweet and kind person. But he's also very guarded. He likes to keep his private life, well, private," Hermione answered honestly, finishing her second drink. She set the cup down and the quill and parchment appeared next to her.
"Do you want anything?" Hermione asked.
"Hmmm…a strawberry margarita," Jocelyn answered.
"Oh, that sounds good. Two strawberry margaritas, please," Hermione said clearly. The quill and parchment disappeared and their drinks materialized 30 seconds later.
"Wicked," Jocelyn grinned. "I never get tired of this." She raised her cup. "To the boys."
"To the boys," Hermione giggled as they clinked their cups together and drank from them.
Jocelyn removed the cup from her mouth and smacked her lips. "Mmm. Terrific as always."
"I definitely concur," Hermione grinned. "Where did they find this spell?"
"1002 Spells for the Perfect Party," answered a male voice.
Hermione and Jocelyn looked up to see a guy with brown hair and medium build lumbering towards them.
He flashed them a smile. "I'm Aaron. I actually found the book and came across the spell. It's Repleo Necesse. Great for parties and for people with limited drink knowledge or mixing expertise."
Hermione felt herself smiling back. "Very helpful little spell, I must say," she replied. "I'm Hermione," she added as an afterthought. "And this is Jocelyn."
"Hey," Jocelyn said. "How'd a smart guy like you get mixed up with this lot?"
Aaron laughed, a rich baritone sound, tossing his head back. "Well, I used to play Quidditch and I when I heard there was an opening, I decided to tryout. Lo and behold, I'm the new chaser."
"That would explain it. Not enough time to corrupt you yet," Jocelyn smiled. "Do you know many people here?"
"Not really, but that's why I came; to get to know my teammates better and try to meet a few new people," he answered. "And things are definitely starting to look up," he added glancing at Hermione, who blushed prettily.
Jocelyn noticed this and was going to excuse herself from the conversation when she felt a hand on her arm. She looked up and saw Hermione's face, pleading her to stay or help her out of the situation. Making up her mind quickly, she glanced at her watch.
"Oh wow, I didn't realize what time it was!" she said with fake surprise. "I told Chris I'd be back with you 20 minutes ago. He'll think I got lost." She turned to Aaron. "It was nice to meet you. I'm sure we'll see you around."
Aaron looked at Hermione, catching her gaze with his and holding it. "You can count on it," he said.
Hermione broke eye contact and blushed even more. "Nice talking with you," she said before walking away with Jocelyn.
Once out of earshot, she let out a breath she didn't know she'd been holding. "Thank you," she said gratefully.
"No problem," Jocelyn answered. "I wasn't planning on leaving you alone with that guy. Something just didn't feel right about him."
"Yeah, I know what you mean. He seemed like a nice guy and all, but something just didn't add up. A bit forward, really," Hermione added.
As they neared the team, the unmistakable sound of a high-pitched giggle pierced the air, making Jocelyn stop in her tracks. "Shit," she mumbled, mostly to herself. "The QBs are here," she said in disgust.
"The what?" Hermione looked confused.
"QBs," Jocelyn repeated. "Quidditch Bitches."
"Fabulous," Hermione said dryly. "I'd better go find Harry. See if he needs saving." She giggled at the thought of the Boy-Who-Lived needing to be saved.
"Uh, I hate to burst your bubble, but he seems to be faring quite well on his own," Jocelyn pointed out. "In fact, I do believe he is enjoying himself."
Hermione looked to where Jocelyn was pointing and studied Harry briefly. Although he was smiling, it was forced; his body language, arms folded across his chest, his eyes darting around, trying to look everywhere but at the chesty bleach-blond talking to him…he definitely needed a way out.
"Not if I know my best friend," Hermione remarked. Her mouth curved upward slowly, until a sly smirk adorned her face. She adjusted her clothes and tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "Be back in a couple minutes." With a wink, she turned on her heel and made her way through the crowd, her eyes trained on Harry.
Hermione walked purposefully and confidently to Harry, not noticing the guys looking at her approvingly as she passed. `I can't believe I'm going to do this. I hope he understands and doesn't hate me,' she thought to herself as she made her way. She took a deep, steadying breath as she reached up to tap Harry on his shoulder…
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