A Simple Question

A/N: This is a slight rewrite of the first chapter I originally posted, you don’t have to read it again if you already read it. I plan on continuing this story; it just might take a while. I hope you enjoy!

Disclaimer: I don’t own anything

“I wonder if Harry’s ever said ‘I love you’” Hermione’s eyes stopped scanning over the words in her book for a moment as she tried to make sense of his words.

“Excuse me?” She asked resting her head against his chest. She awkwardly positioned her head so she could at least see him a bit.

“I wonder if Harry has ever said ‘I love you’ to anyone,” Ron reiterated. Hermione put her book down and shifted her body so she was sitting and facing him.

“Why do you say that?”

“Well, I mean sure he’s dated his share of girls, but do you think he dated any of them long enough to love them?” Ron asked earnestly. Hermione didn’t really like to think about Harry dating loads of girls or being in love with any of them.

“I- I don’t know I’ve never thought about it really. Anyway, it’s not really any of our business, is it?” She suddenly didn’t like the way this conversation was going.

“I guess not, I just was wondering well- do you think he was ever in love with Ginny?” Ron asked thoughtfully. Hermione fought the urge to roll her eyes. She was getting slightly annoyed with this Ron who was suddenly so engrossed in the lives of others.

“I don’t know you’d have to ask him that. I wouldn’t think so though, he didn’t seem too broken up about her after the split.” She decided firmly, then added, “The second time.” Then she saw the defensive glint in Ron’s eyes.

“So, what? Are you saying he was just messing with her?” This time she did roll her eyes.

“Oh please Ron we both know Harry isn’t that kind of guy. I don’t know how he felt about Ginny okay? Anyway it’s in the past. Let bygones be bygones and let sleeping dogs lie.” She sighed.

“You muggles and your sayings; they don’t make a lick of sense.” She quirked her eyebrow at his own terminology before settling back against him and picked up her book. After a few moments of relative silence she stopped again, the conversation bothering her more than she would like to admit.

“Why do you even care?” she asked suddenly as if his motive had unexpectedly come as an afterthought to her.

Ron sighed as if explaining his reasoning to a child. “Think about it, Herms.” She inwardly cringed a little. “Harry was too young to talk to his parents, his relatives were pure rubbish to him, and I don’t see him getting into a mushy talk about his feelings with Sirius, so really we’re looking at someone who has never said ‘I love you’ to anyone. Possibly. Don’t you think that’s strange?” Hermione stiffened, allowing herself to realize that Ron had pointed out a fact that she had overlooked. How odd. Then a whole other realization dawned on her, as if coming in delayed waves of comprehension.

~*~*~

Harry had showed up at her apartment, soaked. She nearly chided him about dripping all over her wood floors but then she saw the look on his face. He was holding his side and was nearly on all fours.

“Hermione-”

“Oh my gosh! Harry!” She rushed over to stand next to him, putting his arm around her neck and helping to move him to the nearby couch. “Harry, what happened? You’re hurt. We have to go to the hospital!”

“No!” He shouted fervently. “Hermione I’m okay. I knew I shouldn’t have come here. I knew you’d worry.”

“Of course I’d worry! I’m always worried about you! Look at you! What happened?” she asked all of these questions while pushing him into a resting position on the couch and pulling a blanket around him. She pushed his sloppy, wet hair to the side as she found a bloody cut next to his scar.

“Auror business.” She tsked exasperatedly.

“Don’t they have special doctors you can see? What are they making you do out there?” she forced his hands away from his sides revealing a bubbling wound. She sharply inhaled at how painful it looked before she pushed his shirt up further to reveal some more cuts and bruises raised against his smooth stomach. “You’re lucky I can heal these.” She said not quite mustering a harsh tone. She looked up to meet his eyes as they stared intently into hers. She suddenly noticed her hands were resting on his bare chest. She blushed and quickly removed them, quietly casting the charms and watching as his skin slowly healed over.

“You know you really should learn how to heal these kinds of wounds yourself.” She said in her best know-it-all voice. Harry laughed momentarily, then he clutched his side, wincing.

“But then when would I ever see you?” he tried his best to smile through the pain.

“That’s going to smart for a couple of days,” she said knowingly. “I’ll try and brew you up something for that.” With that she headed for the kitchen but then changed her mind, going to the bedroom and coming out with a pile of his clothes.

“You should probably get out of those wet clothes.” She tossed the pile to him.

“So this is where my Cannons shirt went!” He cried out triumphantly.

“Of course it’s here, like everything else you leave at my place. Honestly Harry I think you have more clothes here than you do at your own flat.” She pointed out as she turned into the kitchen. She emerged a good fifteen minutes later with two cups of tea.

“I put the herbs on to boil, they should be done in about an hour or so. It’s a pretty strong ointment so you only need to put it on once a day until the pain goes away.” She set the two cups on the coffee table and took a seat next to him on the couch.

“What would I do without you Hermione?” He smiled gratefully.

“Suffer a lot more.” She blew on the top of her tea. “So I think I know better than to ask what you were doing.” She said referring to his injuries. He nodded in agreement and they slipped back into silence. “The Cannons won the other night. Ron called me completely sloshed. He spent another late night out with his team.” She rolled her eyes but watched as Harry sipped his tea indifferently.

“What’s new with you Hermione? How have you been?” She set her cup down carefully, trying to fight the excited smile forming on his lips. His face mirrored hers as he saw her reaction. “What?” he asked grinning from ear to ear now.

“Hogwarts just asked me to be the new Charms teacher!” she nearly sung out, so happy to finally share the news with someone. Harry sat dumbfounded for a moment.

“Really? That’s-that’s, wow, ‘Mione that’s fantastic!” he said smiled warmly. “Congratulations! I’m assuming you’re accepting it, right?” she nodded enthusiastically and he gave her a tight hug. Breathing in her hair he whispered, “That’s amazing. I’m so happy for you.” She hugged him tighter, his cold hair nearly stinging her warm cheek.

“Thank you, you’re the first person I’ve told.” She breathed in his musky, fresh air scent before pulling away to arms length, his goofy smile still plastered on his face. Her smile faltered a bit.

“You think I’ll be good at it?” He shook his head and laughed.

“Hermione, I’ve never seen you be bad at anything. Well, maybe flying.” He said, shaking his head and laughing, probably remembering last summer when she had been coerced onto a broom and had fallen off not even two feet from the ground.

“Oh yeah, laugh it up, really mature Harry. You’re nearly as bad as Ron!” he settled down and stared at her soberly.

“Really, that’s great news Hermione. You’re made for that job. We’ll definitely have to have a celebration dinner sometime, on me.” She snorted.

“Yeah if I can ever find you to take me out. You’re never around anymore!” She said fake sniffing.

“Hey, you know I try my best!”

“I know I know,” she conceded after seeing the deep hurt in his eyes. “It takes a lot of time saving the Wizarding World.” She said smiling and ruffling his hair as she got up. She collected their mugs and went to check on the bubbling, milky ointment.

“Hey I think it’s almost done!” she called out to him while stirring the pot. “Harry?” She asked when he didn’t reply. She quickly went back into the living room to check on him and found him sleeping on the couch. She smiled inwardly at how peaceful he could look when he was resting. She grabbed the blanket from the back of the couch and covered him with it.

Then she knelt down next to him, took off his glasses and brushed his hair aside, pausing to look at his infamous lightning bolt scar. He nuzzled into her touch and opened his eyes.

“Hermione?” he asked quietly.

“Yeah?” she whispered back.

“I love you.” She smiled, the sentiment swelling her heart with emotion.

“I love you too. I don’t know what I would do without Ron’s or your friendship.” She smiled. She saw something in his face change, almost like he stiffened himself; his wounds must be hurting. “I’m going to check on that ointment again; I think it’s done.” He just looked away as she went to the kitchen. Inhaling deeply, like he had the weight of the world on his shoulders, he rolled over and went to sleep.

~*~*~

“Hermione! Hermione! Honestly what did I say now?” she shook herself out of the reverie and turned her attention to her boyfriend.

“What? Oh sorry, I sort of lost it there for a moment.” She said snapping her book shut and sitting up straight.

“What’s going on?” He said sitting up straighter.

“Oh I- I just remembered I need to look something up at home.” She said collecting her coat by the door.

“But Herms, I thought we were going to go out for drinks later.”

“I’ll have to take a rain check!” she said apparating away.

“But what does that mean? Dumb muggle saying.” Ron grumbled to himself.

~*~*~

Harry heard the crack outside his door and rushed to see who it was. He opened the door surprised to see it was Hermione.

“Hermione,” he said breathing a sigh of relief, “You know you can just apparate right in.” He stood aside giving her room to step in. She took only a few steps into the apartment before she turned around. She simply looked at him strangely, like she was trying to read him as if he were one of her books.

“Are you okay? You look a little pale.” He said taking a few steps towards her. “Did you get hurt?” his question punctuating the silence. She bit her lip and shook her head, a very Hermione-when-she’s-perplexed type of thing. Harry noticed this mannerism and recognized it from years of seeing it. “Well, what’s wrong then?” She took a deep breath and walked a few steps in. He closed the door and turned to her. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself.

“Ron- well, you see, Ron and I were sitting down and he asked this question.” She started, staring at a spot on the floor halfway between them.

“Did he say something to you?” Her eyes flicked up to meet his and she saw the familiar protective flash in his eyes. She inwardly smiled having seen that face far too many times in the face of danger; however, it struck her as odd that this look was directed towards Ron rather than Voldemort. Her stomach flipped at the beginnings of reasons forming in her head.

“No-no he didn’t say anything.” She smiled, meeting his eyes and watching relief wash over them. This only made her smile more before she remembered she was dating his best friend.

“So, then what’s the matter?” He asked.

“Well, he asked this question, and it’s really stupid, I can’t even believe I’m here…” she said starting to babble slightly. Usually he thought it was cute but right now it was a bit unnerving.

“What did he ask you?” she heard the apprehension in his voice. Her eyes slowly traveled up the jean-clad legs, the taut, sweater-covered chest, to the handsome face of her longtime best friend. She noticed his stiff stance, as if bracing himself for something big. “Did he ask you to m-”

Immediately she knew what he was thinking and cut him off.

“He asked if you bet on Puddlemere that last game instead of the Cannons.” Hermione looked down at the ground, cursing the absence of her Gryffindor courage. She could hear the bafflement and disbelief in his voice.

“Really? That’s what Ron asked you.” She rolled her eyes at her lame lie but continued to find the patterns on the floor very intriguing.

“Yes?” she said, stated more like a question. She met his eyes and immediately she felt his scrutiny, after all, this was the defeater of the Dark Lord she was lying to. She knew he knew she was lying; she could read it all over his face. He sighed after a moment.

“No, I didn’t. He should know I don’t favor Puddlemere.” He said at last, more out of mercy for her than anything else.

“Oh, well, that’s what I tried to tell him.” She shuffled awkwardly from one foot to another. He let out a half chuckle at her behavior and she blushed a deep crimson which amused him anymore.

“I was just about to order in some pizza if you wanted. I’ve got a big night of Butterbeer and paperwork if you’d like to join.” He said changing the subject after a moment.

She crinkled her nose. “Butterbeer and paperwork? I don’t think they mix very well.” He laughed.

“It does when it’s pointless busywork.” She could nearly feel her ears turn pink under his steady, waiting gaze.

“I don’t know, Ron and I were supposed to…” and there, for a flash she saw it. The sagged shoulders, the broken gaze, he was upset about something.

“It’s okay, I understand.” He said with astonishing believability.

“Well, maybe we can all go out together.” He shook his head.

“As useless as this paperwork is, I’ve got to do it tonight.” She tsked playfully at him.

“Of course I should have known Harry Potter to leave all his work until the last minute.”

“And I should have known you’d hunt me down and lecture me about it.” He laughed. “I’m gonna get a beer, you want anything? I might have some wine if you’d like something classier.” He said with a debonair raise of his eyebrow.

“I don’t know, I should probably be heading…” just then Hermione’s watch chimed. It was a gift from Mrs. Weasley last Christmas; it was a scaled down version of the clock on the wall in her kitchen.

She watched as Ron’s arrow moved from “home” to “partying”. She rolled her eyes.

“What?”

“Oh you know Ron, probably out with the team, partying again. I guess there go my plans” Harry began to arrange some of his paper work on coffee table in the living room.

“Well, you’re more than welcome to stay here. What do you say? Pizza, beer, paperwork, my company…” he said with an air of narcissism. She smiled and rolled her eyes.

“Oh you’re such a celebrity!” she said looking around his apartment and realizing that she would very much like to stay for awhile. “Well, seeing that I don’t have anything else to do…”

“Oh thanks!” he said defensively, then smiled. “You know, you’ve got a whole library of books to choose from…” he said tantalizingly, referring to the room he let her keep most of her books in. Her eyes immediately lit up.

“I’ll go order that pizza.” He said shuffling towards the kitchen. She headed down the hall to the last room on the right and breathed in deeply smelling the wonderful mixed scent of books and Harry. Selecting four books she returned to the living room to find Harry had already set out a Butterbeer for himself and a glass of wine for her. His paperwork was neatly set out with a quill and ink nearby.

“The pizza is on its way, half pepperoni half vegetable.” He explained, sitting on the floor behind the coffee table. She took the seat to the side and stared into the fire for a moment.

“Thank you.” She said pensively. He took a swig of his butterbeer before opening up the first manila folder and rubbing his hands together.

“No problem ‘Mione.” She smiled and opened her book, but instead of reading the text, she puzzled over Ron’s question again and again. I wonder if Harry’s ever said ‘I love you’.

She smiled wryly, knowing that she was a little too proud that she knew the answer to that question, and it had nothing to do with being a know-it-all.

A/N: Let’s face it, I live for reviews! Please!

A/N: Part 2 finally! Hope you enjoy!

“So don’t you know anything else about her?” Harry laughed as Hermione looked pointedly at him. He kicked the snow in front of his feet as they walked down the streets of Hogsmeade.

“Well that’s the whole point of a date, Hermione, to get to know the person better.” She grabbed onto his arm as they walked over a particularly icy patch. His warm fingers immediately found her own.

“Yes, but I’m not used to you dating. At least not you dating someone I don’t know.” She frowned.

“Well, how am I supposed to find the right person if I don’t date anyone?” He turned to look at her and she felt her cheeks grow hot under his steady stare. She loved and hated it when Harry looked at her that way, like he was reading everything about her. It made her flustered and uncomfortable. He looked away suddenly sighing deeply. “You want to go in there?” He asked nodding with his head to the new parchment shop on the street. Hermione smiled brightly.

“Like you even have to ask!”

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

“Did you know that Harry’s dating again?” Hermione asked bringing two cups of tea to the coffee table. Ron was poring over a quidditch magazine.

“He never stopped dating. Why?” He looked up as she placed the steaming mug in front of him and smiled at her.

“Well, I don’t know it’s just strange to hear that Harry’s dating again. After what’s-her-name I thought he had given up on dating for a while.” Ron put the magazine down stretching out across the couch.

“Who cares about a name when she had a body that was unforgettable.” Hermione stared at him pointedly.

“Some women men can’t help but objectify, Hermione!” He admitted cheekily.

“That is repulsive, Ron, and completely chauvinistic.” Hermione sniffed as she pushed his feet to the floor.

“Hey Hermy, you know I was only joking.” She did, Ron knew better than to say stuff like that seriously, and in front of her of no less. She bit her lip, still not liking the situation though. “We don’t know anything about her.” She said frowning after a moment. Ron snorted.

“He hasn’t even gone on a first date with her yet. He barely knows anything about her. Why are you so tense about this anyway, Hermione?” She glanced over at Ron thinking for a moment. Why was she so tense about this?

“I just don’t want him to get hurt.” Once again Ron snorted.

“Oh yeah because Harry Potter, the boy-who-lived, the defeater of the Dark Lord, just might get hurt by some hot auror.” Hermione huffed a little.

“You know what I mean, Ronald.” He cringed at her formal use of his name.

“Hey, as soon as it’s not creepy we can invite them to dinner and you can question the poor girl to death.” He said hugging her tightly.

“I’m just worried about him.”

“I know you are.” He said getting up from the couch.

“Where are you going?”

“Oh some of the boys and I were going to go out for drinks and discuss some tactics. Don’t wait up.” Hermione fought the urge to roll her eyes.

“I’m going back to Hogwarts tonight; I have an early class tomorrow. I told you that.” Ron nodded, half listening.

“Well then okay. I’ll see you Thursday?”

“Of course, dinner at the Burrow.” She said kissing him and apparating to the school.

Later that night Hermione sat at her desk, a stack of ungraded essays laid out in front of her as she stared sulkily out her window. She couldn’t keep her mind on her work and as she looked at the picture of the three of them on her desk her eyes lingered a little too long on the wrong boy.

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

Two days later, the trio met up. She sat back in her comfy purple chair at the tea house as Harry and Ron discussed Harry’s date.

“So how was it?” Ron asked eagerly, stuffing a whole biscuit in his mouth. Harry gave a sidelong glance to Hermione as she pretended to be highly engaged in the book in front of her.

“It went really well. She seems nice. We have a lot in common. She loves quidditch, obviously takes an interest in defense against the dark arts… her dad’s a muggle so she’s used to the muggle world too.” Harry paused, taking a sip of his tea and then met eyes with Hermione briefly before looking away. “She’s really smart too, and really headstrong…stubborn, in fact, but she’s got this loyalty about her. There’s just something about her.” Ron whistled and sat back in his chair while taking in the distant look in Harry’s eyes.

“You’ve got it for this one!” Harry shook himself out of his reverie.

“What?”

“You fancy her.” Ron said excitedly. “You fancy the pants off of her,” Ron lowered his voice to a conspiratorially low volume, “…did you fancy the pants off of her?” Ron chuckled at his own joke as Hermione closed her book sharply and gave Ron a sharp look.

“We’re going to have dinner again next week.” Harry explained, “I’m still getting to know her.”

“So you think we’ll get to meet her eventually?” Ron asked hopefully. Hermione left the table under the guise of going to the loo. Harry’s eyes followed Hermione out of the room.

“What’s wrong with Hermione? Did you two get into another row?” Ron rolled his eyes.

“You know girls; Hermione and her emotions are about as unpredictable as one of Hagrid’s classes.” Harry’s eyes softened at the memory of the three of them back at Hogwarts.

“Hermione’s moods are rarely unwarranted if you pay attention.” He said thoughtfully. Ron snorted.

“You don’t date her.” Harry looked into the depths of his teacup and was silent. No, he didn’t.

When Hermione came back from the loo Harry had to get back to the office and Hermione wanted to make it back for the Hogwarts feast that night. Hermione hugged Harry goodbye while Ron went to get the coats.

“Are you okay, Hermione?” Harry whispered into her ear as she kissed his cheek. She looked at him strangely.

“Of course, why?” she said with a smile.

“I don’t know, you just seemed a little…frustrated.” He saw her gaze harden just a bit.

“Well, I’m not, so don’t worry about it.” She said as Ron came up behind her and put her coat on for her.

“Thanks.” She said turning towards Ron as she flipped her hair out of her collar. She didn’t really know why she was so angry at Harry, but she wanted him to know she was a little mad. With one last glance at Harry, she headed towards the door.

“What’d you say to her?” Ron asked as both men’s eyes followed her to the door.

“Nothing, I asked if she was okay and she just got defensive.” Ron shook his head.

“I told you she just kind of goes off sometimes.” Ron said patting Harry on the back and following his girlfriend out the door. Harry scratched the back of his head before leaving also.

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

“Oh hey, Harry. I didn’t see you there at first.” Adrienne said with a smile as she walked towards him. He smiled, holding a couple of files in his hand. “What brings you to the Mismanagement of Potions and Ointments Department?” Adrienne stood at a svelte 5’7” with long dark brown hair that smoothly ran down her back. Harry had ducked down to the fourth floor of the Ministry to drop off some files to the head of the MPOD.

“Just dropping off some files.” He said showing her the handful of scrolls. She flipped her hair off her shoulder and smiled.

“Well, I’m glad I ran into you. I’ve been meaning to tell you how great of a time I had the other night. I’m really looking forward to doing it again.” He looked down at his forearm as she lightly touched it and leaned in to talk to him. He kind of liked the feel of a female’s gentle touch. He had forgotten how nice it could be sometimes. Well, how nice it could be when he didn’t have to remind himself that it was his best friend’s girlfriend touching him. He locked eyes with her and smiled.

“I’m looking forward to it too. I’ve never had Thai food.”

“Oh I think you’ll like it. It’s kind of smoky and comforting with just the right amount of spice.” She gave him a coquettish smile.

“Can’t wait to try it.” He said with a smile. “Well, I’ve really got to drop off these files, but I’ll see you later, alright?” She smiled again knowingly before turning to leave.

“Can’t wait.” Harry’s eyes followed her for a few moments before he turned towards the head’s office.

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

That night, Harry poured over some files in his apartment when he heard a pop from behind him.

“Harry? It’s me!” He heard Hermione call out from the hallway. He smiled, turning behind him and saw her round the corner. Seeing the wide smile on her face he stood up to fully face her.

“What is it, Hermione?” She smiled excitedly.

“I’ve got big news…huge, in fact!” she said rushing over to him.

“What? Come on, Hermione, you can’t leave me hanging!”

“Minerva is sending me to Beauxbatons to meet and discuss teaching techniques and spells with their Charms teacher! Isn’t that exciting?” Harry smiled and pulled Hermione close to him in a hug. He pressed her tightly against his chest and buried his nose into her hair.

“That’s wonderful!” He loved the smell of Hermione’s hair. It was a familiar, clean scent. He was so close he could feel her chest rise and fall. He could feel her breath on his neck as she melted into his embrace. Her fingers found their way to the base of his neck as she lightly played with his hair.

Harry started to breathe heavier. No, this was definitely not the way he should be reacting to his best friend. Not only his best friend but also his other best friend’s girlfriend! He could feel her cheek brush his neck. His fingers drew imaginary circles on her back. Finally, she stepped away from him and looked shyly into his eyes. He felt something inside him flip in excitement at her gaze.

“I leave in two weeks, once Hogwarts is on holiday. I’ll be staying at Beauxbatons for a week.”

“That’s amazing! I didn’t even know Hogwarts did that. What’d Ron say?” Hermione looked away and blushed.

“Well, I haven’t told him yet. He’s away with quidditch anyway and well, I wanted to tell you and know what you thought about it first.” She said with another shy smile that sent his heart racing.

“I think it’s wonderful, Hermione. You should be so proud. That sounds like an honor.” He couldn’t resist brushing a lock of hair out of her face. She looked up and smiled at him.

“Would you mind, if I stayed here tonight? I’d like the company.” Harry smiled at the thought of her feeling like she even had to ask.

“Of course, Hermione, you practically have a room here anyway.”

“I mean, you weren’t too busy were you? I know you have work tomorrow. I have a 10:00 am class anyway. I was just planning on changing into some comfy clothes, reading, and going to bed. If that works for you.” Merlin, why did she have to be so cute?

“You should know by now, Hermione, I never mind. Make yourself at home.” She smiled brightly before lifting up on her toes and lightly kissing him on the cheek.

“Thanks, Harry.” She disappeared into one of the guest rooms that had practically become hers. It had some of her clothes in it and most of her books anyway. In fact, he already thought of it as Hermione’s room. Even though he’d much rather her sleep in another room in his house…

He shook his head trying to get the image of Hermione curled up in his bed out of his mind. He turned back to his paperwork and tried to focus as best as he could. It was working pretty well for him before Hermione came out in cute little shorts and one of his old quidditch training shirts. His heart nearly stopped when he saw her. She was trying to kill him. It was that simple. Clearly, Voldemort’s soul had transferred into Hermione’s and she was slowly trying to kill Harry Potter with sexual frustration. Hermione noticed him staring.

“I hope you don’t mind,” she said tugging nervously at the hem of his/her shirt, “it’s the comfiest shirt ever.” She settled herself on the couch as she opened a big book and started to read. Harry’s eyes slowly traveled up her legs, enjoying the show of skin that he rarely ever got to see. He could practically feel her soft skin underneath his hand as he ran it up her thigh. He could feel the soft fabric of her shirt against his bare chest as his lips caressed the smooth column of skin near her collarbone.

Shaking his head to clear his mind, he turned back to his work. Maybe they should reopen the Voldemort case, because someone was definitely trying to kill him.

A/N: Alright, finally Chapter 2! Reviews always make me happy! And they really do inspire me to keep writing.

Hermione woke up to the smell of something delicious cooking. Turning over, she momentarily forgot where she was until the room came into focus and she smiled, snuggling deeper into her covers. Taking in the cheerful peach color of the walls, the large bookcase filled with all her favorite books, and the classic furniture and accents that alluded to Harry’s good taste, she remembered that she had spent the night in Harry’s flat.

She looked over at the clock and realized it was seven in the morning. Stretching, she threw the covers off herself and decided to investigate the delicious smell. Hermione traveled down the hall and rounded the corner into the kitchen to see the defined back of none other than Harry Potter. She allowed her eyes to travel down the smooth ripples of his muscles as he flipped something in a pan over the stove. She watched as his muscles tensed and relaxed underneath his skin.

Standing there for longer than she should have, she finally stepped into the kitchen and faked a loud yawn. Harry turned around, surprised, and Hermione was treated to a frontal view of his perfectly defined abs. Her eyes traveled slowly to meet his own. There was a brief moment when her surprised look met his own knowing smirk.

“Smells great.” She said with smile, turning to the fridge to get some orange juice. “You want any?” she asked pulling down a cup.

“Yeah, please.” He said turning back to his pancakes. She pulled down another cup and filled them both.

“I thought I’d let you sleep longer. I have to be at work in an hour, but you said you don’t have work until ten so I figured I’d just let you sleep until whenever. I didn’t wake you did I?” Hermione smiled at his thoughtfulness.

“No, not at all. You know I’m not one for sleeping in.” Hermione walked over to the pantry and pulled out a box of cereal. She heard Harry laugh and stopped.

“What?” She asked turning around to face him.

“Hermione, I’m making you pancakes. Unless you don’t want them, that’s fine.” He said taking them off the griddle.

“Oh! Oh well I just thought you were making them for yourself.” Harry smiled as he put two stacks on two plates.

“There’s such a thing as a warming charm, Hermione. You should know.” He handed the plate to her and motioned for her to follow him to the table.

“Thanks, Harry. You’re so sweet.” The two ate in relative silence, enjoying each other’s company. Hermione couldn’t help but think that it had been one of the best mornings she had had in a long time. Afterwards Harry took a quick shower and left for work and Hermione was left with the apartment to herself.

Hermione walked around examining Harry’s apartment like she had never gotten to before. She ran her hands along the comfortable deep cream couch that she loved so much. There were two overstuffed black leather chairs facing each other on either side of the couch. There was a glass coffee table where Harry usually did his work or they ate Chinese takeout on some nights. There was a fireplace with a flat screen television mounted over it. Along the mantle were various pictures of friends from school such as Neville, Luna, Seamus, Dean, and even Lavender. Over by the large bay windows was a desk she had never seen Harry sit at. On it were some pictures of the three of them being silly.

Along the back wall was another glass table with more well-known pictures of the three of them including pictures of his mum and dad and the marauders. The apartment was well furnished and classic with a hint of modern. She smiled at how clean it was and thought about the pigsty that was Ron’s apartment. Harry had well-maintained, live plants; Ron’s apartment was definitely growing something.

She went down the hallway, passing the bathroom and the first and second guest rooms. Next came the room that she usually stayed in. Finally, at the end of the hallway was Harry’s room. She really hadn’t seen the inside of Harry’s bedroom. Usually if she was in here she was in some kind of panic over his well-being either because he was hurt or she couldn’t find him.

The walls were cream colored and he had rich red curtains hanging to the sides of the large windows. His bed was made and his comforter was a rich red. His room was simple and clean with a cherry wood dresser which matched the bed and two glass bedside tables. On one of them was a picture of his parents taken when they were married for about a year. The other table had a picture of him and her on it. She smiled at the picture. Her brow furrowed, trying to remember when the picture was taken.

It was of the two of them at one of Ron’s first quidditch games. They were celebrating a win for the Cannons. Hermione had her arm wrapped around him and was smiling for the camera as his nose nuzzled closely to her cheek, and he looked at her and smiled brightly. They were surrounded by a crowd of their friends celebrating with champagne and confetti. She could see a small patch of bright red hair in the background.

She remembered, soon after the picture had been taken by Colin, Ron had found them and attacked her with a celebratory kiss. She put the photo back, feeling a bit too nosy, and left Harry’s room. She took a shower, got ready for class, and left.

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

Later that week, Hermione sat across from Ron in his flat, eating in silence. She looked at all the walls, the piles of clothes and mail, and the Canons gear that bathed the flat in an orange hue. She looked up from her noodles and was met with the slurping sounds of Ron and his orange tuft of hair. She pushed her noodles around on the plate.

“Maybe we should go on a vacation somewhere or something.” She said lightly, looking around at the mess of apartment. The slurping stopped.

“Like where?” She met Ron’s questioning eyes with her own thoughtful brown ones. She bit her lip.

“I don’t know, maybe somewhere warm. I just kind of want a change of scenery.” Ron dropped his fork to his plate and sat back thoughtfully.

“Well, I’m playing in Australia next week if you want to come.” She shook her head.

“I’ll be finishing up classes and packing for France. Anyway, I was kind of thinking of a non-quidditch related trip. You know, just you and me, relaxing.” Ron gave her a sideways smile.

“You mean you in a bikini?” He quirked an eyebrow and she gave him a reproachful look. “Well, I have quidditch until the end of February. That’s like two months away, Hermione.” He picked up his fork and started eating again.

“What about Christmas holiday? You get off a week and a half for that.” Ron’s mouth fell open for a moment before he promptly closed it and continued to chew his food.

“And not go to mum’s for the holiday? Do you want to tell her we won’t be there?” She sighed and started picking at her food again. No, she definitely did not want to be the messenger for that bit of news.

“What’s wrong, Hermione?” He was looking at her with big eyes and she sighed and looked away.

“I don’t know, I guess I just feel like we never have any alone time.” He looked around him as if to point out they were alone now and she sighed heavily. “I mean really alone, you know? Just spend the morning together, not have work, no quidditch. Just enjoy each other’s company. Don’t you miss that?” Ron shook his head smiling.

“When have we ever had that kind of down time? Right after Hogwarts you took that scrivener’s job and I was drafted to the Canons. Then you took the teaching job and I went to training camp.” Hermione started to realize they spent very little time together in the past few years.

“I guess that’s true.” She said carefully. She pushed her noodles away from her, no longer hungry.

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

Harry heard a pop outside in the hallway as he struggled with his hair.

“Harry!”

“In here, Ron!” Harry looked up to see Ron’s reflection in the mirror behind him. Harry straightened his collar.

“What’s up?” He asked turning around to face his long time best friend. Ron whistled.

“Well don’t you look dapper.” Harry smiled sheepishly, tugging nervously at his tie.

“It’s not too much is it? Adrienne and I are going to this fancy Thai restaurant tonight.”

“No, no, you look good. So, Adrienne again, eh? Excited?” Harry fidgeted more with his clothing. Then paused.

“You know what? I am. It’s the first time in a long time I’ve thought of anybody else this way.”

“Anybody else?” Ron asked as he followed Harry to the living room. Harry turned to face Ron for a moment as he took a quick detour to the kitchen.

“Come again?”

“You said it’s been a while since you’ve thought of anybody else in that way. Who are you talking about?” Harry paused for a moment trying to remember what he had said.

“Adrienne.” Ron rolled his eyes.

“I know you were talking about Adrienne, I was talking about the other person you’ve felt this way about. Who was it?” Harry paused for another moment. Who was he talking about? “Do you mean Ginny?” Harry blinked once before catching up with Ron’s thought process.

“Uh, yeah I guess I meant Ginny.” His voice rose at the end of the sentence like a question.

“But you couldn’t possibly love her yet, could you?” Harry was feeling incredibly lost.

“Love who?”

“Adrienne!” Harry shook his head in surprise.

“Of course I don’t love Adrienne. That kind of thing takes time, right?” Ron shrugged.

“I just figured you said you felt for Adrienne what you felt for Ginny so immediately I thought about love because you loved Ginny, right?” Harry felt like he was being slapped in the face, or maybe George had polyjuiced into Ron’s body and was playing an elaborate joke on him.

“Um, I…what?!” Harry stood in the middle of his living room completely confused by Ron’s line of questioning. Ron dismissively waved a hand in the air.

“Nevermind that, I came over here because I figured we should have a nice dinner/get together before Hermione leaves for France as a kind of going away party.”

“That’s a great idea, Ron. We could go out somewhere for dinner and come back here for drinks. Hermione loves that one place with the Mongolian grill. We could go there; I’ll reserve the whole back room.” Ron sat on one of the barstools looking incredibly pleased with himself.

“Good, sounds good. I’ll owl our friends and tell them.”

“Sounds great.” Harry said turning towards the door to grab his coat. “Now, I’ve really got to cut out or I’ll be late. You’re sure I don’t look daft?”

“Looking good, mate.” Harry smiled nervously and left to pickup his date.

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

“So my brother is just standing there, in nothing but his boxers in front of all his friends, and that’s when my parents knew that I was a witch.” Adrienne smiled as she finished her story. Harry had been laughing the whole time.

“That’s a great story. I can’t believe he still talks to you!” Adrienne smiled cheekily.

“Well, he got me back later, but that is another story.” Harry laughed again.

“Well, you were right, this place is amazing. The food is delicious.” Adrienne smiled brightly and lightly touched his hand across the table.

“You know, I’m having a really great time.” Harry looked down at her fingers lightly grazing the back of her hand and he turned his over, capturing her fingers. It felt so nice to have an impulse and follow through with it…guilt-free.

“I’m having a really great time too. I don’t want the night to end.” He said surveying the cleared table in front of them and the empty teacups.

“Well,” Adrienne blushed a bit, “I know a place we could go for drinks. If you really do want to extend the night for a bit longer.” Harry looked into her pretty honey colored eyes and smiled.

“That sounds wonderful.”

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

“It’s all over the papers. ‘Harry Potter: Crazy in Love’ ‘Harry Potter and Mystery Woman.’ Do you know her?” Ginny sipped her tea as she looked up at Hermione.

“I know of her, I haven’t met her myself. He’s gone on like two dates with her.” Hermione looked at the interest written all over Ginny’s face. Hermione didn’t know if Ginny still had any feelings for Harry. It had been nearly two years since they had broken up. Ginny had dated off and on, more than Harry had, but neither had anyone too serious in their lives.

“Well, have you heard anything about her?” Hermione nervously twisted a piece of hair between her fingers.

“I know she works at the ministry for the Potions and Ointments Department.” Ginny made a face.

“My dad says they get some nasty cases down there. This one time they found this ointment that when it’s applied to your skin it starts to eat away-” Hermione cleared her throat.

“I really don’t want to hear about that Gin.” Ginny worked in the backfired artifacts ward at St. Mungo’s. Ginny took another sip of her tea.

“So, do you think he’s serious about her?” Hermione looked up, startled by her question.

“Well, how would I know?” Ginny gave her a look: he is your best friend, you know. “You know Harry isn’t very vocal about his relationships. Why do you ask, anway?” Ginny waved her hand absentmindedly towards the window.

“Well, there were some pretty serious looking photos in Witch’s Weekly. You know, holding hands at a fancy restaurant. Looking pretty flirtatious at a bar, and then what looked to be a good night kiss at the door.” Hermione felt something stirring in her stomach.

“You know I don’t read or believe those magazines.” Ginny looked slightly offended.

“Well, neither do I, but Lavender was reading one in the break room.” Hermione rolled her eyes.

“Lavender Brown, I should have known.” Hermione sat back in her chair. So Harry looked serious about this one? She tried not to think about him romancing this new girl. She still hadn’t met her. She still didn’t trust that this girl was good enough for Harry. In a way, she wished that she never did meet this girl. That way, she could remain satisfied that this girl was not good enough for Harry. Hermione had gotten as close as she was to Harry after years of watching his back and proving her friendship to him. She didn’t like the idea that some new girl could just waltz so easily into their…his life.

A/N: Ooo, jealous, possessive Hermione! What will happen when she meets Adrienne? Find out next chapter. As always, reviews are always adored (and inspiring). Some Harry/Hermione is on it’s way!

A/N: I know it’s been forever since I updated, sorry. This is part 1 and I promise part 2 will be posted in a timely fashion. I kinda rushed this because I wanted to get it posted fast.

“Hermione, I don’t think you’ll be needing Centaurs, Thestrals, Trolls, Oh My! at Beauxbatons.” Harry said picking up the heinously large volume from her stack of books to take. She snatched it from his hand, giving him a dirty look.

“It’s just for some pleasure reading.” She said placing it back in the trunk. Hermione was at her flat packing for France and Harry had come over to keep her company.

“But you said all those were for pleasure reading.” He said, flourishing his hand to another large stack of books on her bed. Hermione sighed as if Harry should clearly understand her thinking.

“Yes, but I never know what kind of mood I’ll be in. Maybe I’ll want to read up on Runes or Spells or Mythical Creatures or …” Harry held up his hands in surrender.

“Okay, okay, point proven. Just make sure you have room for your clothes.” Hermione shot him another dirty look before looking guiltily into her trunk and then at her closet. She opened her closet doors and started taking various items off their hangers. She turned back to her trunk and started folding each item neatly before placing them in the trunk. Harry stood next to her, watching as she focused intensely at the simple task at hand. He loved how she could get so wrapped up in simple tasks. Her obsessive need to have everything meticulously folded was kind of endearing.

“Do you think I’ll need something fancy? Just in case?” She asked absentmindedly while she folded a nice set of deep green robes. Harry made his way to the closet, silently taking note of Hermione’s simple but classic wardrobe. He spotted his favorite sweater of hers and lightly ran his fingers across the soft, white fabric.

“Couldn’t hurt, I guess.” He saw that Hermione had a few nice dresses and he started to examine each one. He had seen her in a few of them. He ran his hand down a silk, cream dress and remembered how lovely she had looked when she wore it to dinner with him and Ron for some celebration dinner. Maybe it was for when he graduated from auror training.

His hand stopped on a small black dress. It was shorter than her other dresses and looked like it would fit tighter than almost anything else she owned.

“Ginny talked me into that one a few months ago. Haven’t really worn it though. It doesn’t really seem like me.” Hermione’s voice came from just behind his left shoulder, he could nearly feel her behind him, looking at the same dress as he was.

“It’s nice.” He said looking closely at the detail.

“It’s short.”

“I’m sure you’d look lovely in it.” He said, taking the risk and turning his face towards her. Her eyes flicked away from the dress to him. “You should take it.” He said, regretful that he wouldn’t see her in the lovely dress.

“It’s definitely not appropriate for any school related function.” She said as her hand brushed his shoulder. She reached for a dark blue dress instead which she had worn to Fleur’s second baby shower. The movement brought her right up against his back as her hand grasped the hanger. Harry stood rigid, knowing he should move, that it would be the courteous thing to do, but the selfish side of him was too busy enjoying the feel of her against him.

Hermione too, seemed to sense that they were a bit closer than friends should be; however, instead of moving, she stood in the same place, holding the dress awkwardly in front of them. This always seemed to happen when they got too close. It was as if once they had passed within a few inches of each other, they couldn’t move away. Usually with Harry and Hermione it was a dance of well placed steps and touches, so they could avoid situations like these.

“Then again,” Harry began, his voice slightly hoarse, “you look lovely in everything.” The look in Hermione’s eyes was apprehensive, a mixture of longing, regret, and fear.

“Harry—“ she tentatively called softly. She cut herself off and let the words hang between them like a statement. Maybe she was stopping him; maybe she was calling for him. Harry looked down at her, weighing his options as his eyes flicked quickly from her eyes to her lips. Then there was a whoosh of wings and the caw of an owl. It flew through the window and dropped something on Hermione’s bed.

Harry turned his head towards the bird, but kept his body close to Hermione’s.

“That’d be the morning post.” He heard her whisper softly near his ear. He couldn’t tell if her voice carried regret or relief, perhaps a mixture of both. She was the first to move, tucking the dress safely into her trunk before walking over to her bed and picking up her copy of The Daily Prophet. Harry slipped some coins to the owl and it took off flying.

“Anything good?” he asked, coming to stand next to her, but this time, keeping his distance. Hermione unfolded the paper and let out a surprised breath.

“Yeah, you, on a date.” She said as she looked at the picture of a surprised Harry and a gorgeous looking witch.

“What?” He said snatching the paper from her hands and examining it. “Isn’t this usually stuff that Witch’s Weekly publishes?” He said with a hint of anger in his voice.

“Is that Adrienne?” Hermione asked leaning over the paper to get a closer look at the picture.

“Yeah, I don’t know why this is front page news though. I should owl The Prophet about this.” He said tossing the paper back onto her bed. She could see the paper had really upset him.

“Oh come on, Harry. They always do this. You know that. You can’t help it if people care about what you’re doing.”

“There’s got to be boundaries though, Hermione. I don’t need everyone in the whole bloody wizarding world to know that I’m dating.” Hermione walked over towards him, paper in hand.

“They do this to all of us Harry. It’s just a matter of whether it’s placed on the front page or page six.” She said handing him page six, which had a big picture of Ron out with his team in Amsterdam.

“It’s just now there’s going to be all these questions from everyone. You know, like ‘who is she?’ ‘is it smart to be dating someone from work?’ and my least favorite of all ‘is it serious?’” He said as he left her room and headed for the kitchen. Hermione followed. She desperately wanted to ask him those same questions but let the words die on her lips. He took a big gulp of water he had poured himself. “You know I just wish I could keep my personal life, personal.” She nodded, not knowing what else she could say. He looked at the clock.

“Look, it’s late and I’ve got to go in and do some paper work. I’ll see you tomorrow though for your goodbye dinner.” He said placing the cup in her sink and disapparating without a goodbye.

Hermione looked down once more at the picture of the beautiful witch on Harry’s arm and licked her lips. So this was it, staring at Adrienne made her real. It had been a long time since one of Harry’s girls had seemed significant enough to be put in The Prophet. Usually they never made it out of Witch’s Weekly before the relationship ended.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Ron? Ron, come on what’s taking you? Harry’s probably been waiting for us for ten minutes already.” Hermione called to Ron as he came from his room straightening his tie.

“Calm down, Hermione, I’m coming. Anyway, we can be as late as we want, it is your going away dinner.” He said putting his shoes on. She tapped her foot impatiently.

“Well, I don’t want to be late. It’s rude.” Ron rolled his eyes and stood up. He looked at her for the first time since she had changed. He let out a low whistle.

“I’ve never seen that dress on you before.” He said appreciatively. Hermione fussed with the hem, pulling it down nervously.

“It’s too tight.” She said apprehensively.

“No, no, I like it.” Ron said eyeing her hungrily. Hermione squirmed, uncomfortable with the attention.

“Now I know it’s too tight!” She cried. Ron came over and held both of her arms.

“You look fantastic, now let’s go before Harry thinks we forgot.” With that Ron brought her on a side-along apparation. Hermione landed on wobbly legs with her high heels.

“Warn me next time, Ron!” She called out angrily and was met with a wave laughter. Hermione suddenly noticed the warm light and the soft piano playing in the background. They were at her favorite restaurant and all her friends were there.

“Surprise!” Hermione jumped as the group called out to her. Then realization dawned on her and she smiled widely.

“Oh my gosh, you guys!” Hermione said as she began hugging her close friends. Neville, Ginny, Fred and George, Luna, Colin, Dean, and Seamus all gathered around her to give her their congratulations. Ron snaked his arm around her waist as her eyes scanned the crowd. Just when she was about to voice her question, Harry burst through the crowd of their friends and enveloped her in a tight hug.

“I told you you’d look lovely in it.” He whispered in her ear as he pulled away. She looked up at him and they smiled silently to each other, but the silent moment between the two was quickly broken.

“You must be, Hermione!” a tall witch with long dark brown hair said extending her hand. She pulled herself close to Harry as Hermione took her hand. “I’ve heard so much about you.” She said, gently jabbing Harry in the ribs as if it were a private joke. Harry blushed deeply and looked up at Hermione.

“Hermione, this is Adrienne. Sorry we’re late—” Harry began before Adrienne cut him off.

“It was my fault, you know us girls, never quite happy with the way we look.” She said with a laugh. Hermione’s eyes sized up Adrienne and she found herself inwardly scowling when she found not one flaw. She looked back at Harry and found his eyes slowly drifting up to hers. They both looked away shyly.

“Well you look great, and it’s great to meet you.” Hermione said, finding it difficult to force out a big enough smile for it to be believable. They all sat down at the table and once Hermione was seated she looked around herself more.

“You guys, we’re the only ones here.” Hermione said looking around the empty restaurant, save for a couple of waiters.

“Yeah, well Harry thought it would be best if we kept this as a ‘private affair’” Ron began to explain, “So he bought out the whole restaurant.” Hermione looked delightfully surprised as she turned to Harry and he scratched the back of his head in the cute way that he always does when he is embarrassed.

“Harry, you shouldn’t have!” She began to protest.

“Well, I already did so there’s no use in giving me some speech, Hermione. I just wanted you to enjoy the night.” Hermione beamed brightly at him while Adrienne reached for his arm.

“Oh Harry, you’re so sweet.” Adrienne said with a kind smile to him. He returned the warm smile and placed his hand over hers. She then turned to Hermione. “So I hear you’ve been selected to travel to my alma mater tomorrow. I absolutely loved it there. Harry told me how much you love books, and Beauxbatons has the most wonderful library. I spent nearly all my time there. I’m a bit of a bookworm myself.” She said shyly as she flipped her hair behind her shoulder.

“Really?” Hermione asked, hardly believing that a girl who looked like Adrienne would spend all her time in a library.

“Yeah, I got made fun of all the time because I was the top in my class. Harry told me that you were top of your class too. Isn’t that funny?” Hermione found her alpha female senses kicking in. So she was top of her class too? Hermione let out a feeble laugh and took a big gulp of wine. Watching Adrienne and Harry interact across from her, she barely felt Ron’s hand cover her own. This was going to be a long night.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“You’re sure you can’t come?” Hermione pleaded with Neville as he sadly shook his head.

“Sorry, I promised my grandmum that I’d meet her for an early breakfast tomorrow, but congratulations once again, Hermione. That’s great news.” Neville smiled.

“Alright, well I guess I’ll see you when we get back to Hogwarts.” Hermione said smiling as she hugged Hogwarts’ professor of Herbology. She turned to face the three remaining people. Adrienne gave her a bright smile and laced her fingers through Harry’s. Ron came over giving her a kiss on the forehead. She smiled at him.

“Ready to go?” he asked her, taking her hand. She nodded and the last thing she saw before she apparated was Harry looking at her accusingly.

A/N: Please review, it really is my best form of motivation

A/N: Hey sorry I know I said I would post this in a timely manner but I’ve had a lot of personal drama happening right now so it’s kinda been draining the desire to write. Hopefully it will all get better. Anyway you guys are great about reviewing and you totally make me happy so THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL THE WONDERFUL REVIEWS it really makes me feel better!

Hermione wobbled once again as her feet touched down on Harry’s hardwood floors. Regaining her balance she began to regret the three and a half glasses of wine she had had at the dinner. She jumped when she heard a few more pops as she was joined by Harry and Adrienne.

“So, can I get drinks for anyone?” Harry asked to break the silence.

“Sounds lovely,” Adrienne said, taking a seat on the big white sofa next to Hermione. Ron remained standing, examining some of Harry’s pictures. Adrienne turned to Hermione.

“So Harry told me that you were doing some side research on the magical abilities of house elves. I think that’s absolutely brilliant. I’ve never quite understood house elves. I mean they have feelings just like everyone else; there’s no use for them to be treated like slaves, so why do they allow themselves to be used by witches and wizards?” Hermione found her passion of the subject outweighing her hesitation towards Adrienne.

“Well, that’s what I’ve always wondered too. House elves have a strong enough quality of magic to perform it without a wand, so I’ve been looking into the nature of the spell that binds a house elf to a witch or wizard that treats them poorly.” Harry entered the living room and placed two glasses of wine in front of the women and handed a beer to Ron.

“So what are you two going on about?’ He asked, taking a seat in one of the leather chairs. Ron snorted.

“House elves. Looks like Hermione finally found another member for spew.” Ron said, sitting across from Harry in the other chair. Hermione gave Ron a hard look.

“Oh, you’re talking about S.P.E.W!” Adrienne called out cheerfully. “Harry told me all about that too. Harry and I agreed that it’s actually quite a thoughtful cause.” Adrienne said, throwing a glowing smile to Harry before turning back to Hermione.

“Well, I kind of gave up on S.P.E.W a while ago; I feel that this research will be much more helpful in raising awareness of the mistreatment of house elves.” Hermione admitted.

“Well, honestly if there’s anything I can do to help… I’d love to read over your findings.” Adrienne said helpfully. Hermione’s eyes flicked to Harry’s and she found him staring intently at her, his beer bottle posed just under his lips, his eyes flicked to Adrienne and then again to Hermione. He broke contact and took a long swig from his bottle. Hermione gave him a hard look, even though he wasn’t looking at her.

“So Adrienne, you seem to know so much about me, but I don’t really know too much about you.” Hermione probed lightly.

“Well, there’s not much to tell. My mum’s a witch and my dad’s a muggle. My great-great grandmum was a veela. I work in the Mismanagement of Potions and Ointments department for the Ministry which is actually very interesting.” Hermione nodded.

“And how did you and Harry meet?” Hermione asked innocently. She looked over at Harry who was once again studying her intently.

“Harry and I had been work acquaintances for a couple of months before he finally asked me out!” Adrienne smiled.

“You remember Hermione, it was right around yours and Ron’s two year anniversary. I decided it was time to focus on my own happiness.” Harry said lightly as he swirled around the remaining beer in his bottle. The slight tone of challenge in his voice seemed to be lost on both Adrienne and Ron. Hermione felt her heartbeat quicken and her palms get sweaty. She felt as if she was being accused of something.

She shifted uncomfortably in her seat, noting that Adrienne had struck up a conversation with Ron. She felt her heart hammering wildly against her chest, feeling trapped in between her boyfriend and Harry’s girlfriend. She felt her face grow hot.

“Hermione?” Harry called out worriedly as he leapt from his chair and knelt down beside her. Ron and Adrienne immediately turned to Hermione.

“Hermione, you don’t look so good.” Ron said, also getting out of his seat to kneel in front of her. She shook her head.

“I- I don’t know what came over me. I just, I don’t know I guess I worked myself up a bit.” She said, trying to move the attention away from her. She felt Harry squeeze her hand reassuringly.

“Maybe your dress is too tight?” Adrienne asked politely. Maybe Hermione was imagining it but she could have sworn there was something else in Adrienne’s voice.

“Yeah, Hermione, why don’t you go change? You have plenty of clothes here.” Harry and Ron both helped Hermione to her feet as she felt her face flush even redder with embarrassment. Really what had gotten into her? Harry squeezed her hand and she instantly felt the pull that she always did when he got too close to her. Her stomach flipped over in excitement.

He led her down the hallway towards the guest room that was practically her room. Hermione tripped on her own feet and accidentally pushed Harry into the side of the hallway before her own body slammed into his. They were both caught by surprise as they found themselves looking into each other’s eyes. She could feel the crisp fabric of his shirt underneath her hands that were sprawled across his chest to brace herself. She could hear his ragged breathing and feel the hammering of his heartbeat.

She bashfully met his eyes and they were staring down at her in a mixture of both amusement and concern.

“Blimey, Hermione!” Ron called out, “Are you okay?” Hermione pushed herself away from Harry and smoothed down her clothes.

“I’m fine, I just lost my balance for a second.” She said with as much dignity as she could muster.

“Maybe it was all the wine you had at dinner.” Adrienne added as she joined the group in the hallway. Once again, Hermione did not find Adrienne’s input to be helpful.

“That’s true, you’re not usually too much of a drinker.” Ron added in helpfully. Hermione was about to retort when Harry gently tugged on her arm.

“Come on, let’s get you out of that dress.” He muttered. Adrienne and Ron followed them to the guest bedroom. Hermione opened the closet and pulled out a comfy shirt and some jeans she had left at Harry’s a while ago. Harry gently shuffled everyone out of the room and started to close the door behind him. Hermione looked up just in time to see Adrienne looking curiously at Hermione.

Hermione changed out of her tight dress and instantly felt more comfortable in her new clothes. She walked down the hall and saw Adrienne and Ron in conversation.

“Have they always done that?” Adrienne asked quietly.

“Done what?” Ron asked, picking up a picture frame then putting it back down. Hermione rolled her eyes, she hated how Ron could never just sit still. Knowing that she shouldn’t eaves drop, she still hung back a bit and listened to their conversation.

“You know, keep so many things at the other’s place. It seems weird doesn’t it?” Adrienne asked again. Hermione could practically see the gears working in Adrienne’s head. Dear Merlin, Adrienne seemed to be more and more like her by the minute. Ron shrugged.

“That’s just how they’ve always been. I mean, we’re all best friends.” Ron said, seemingly not bothered by the idea.

“So what you all just have slumber parties or something? I mean, how else would Hermione have so many clothes over here?” Adrienne asked determinedly. Hermione felt it was best to end the conversation now.

“Where’d Harry go?” she asked. They both looked up at her, taking in her change of clothes.

“He’s in the kitchen.” Adrienne said looking at Hermione curiously. Hermione began to feel awkward under her penetrating gaze. Even Ron seemed to be studying her closer than he had in years.

“I guess I’ll go see if he needs any help.” She said backing away from the awkward situation and heading to the kitchen.

“Hey, there you are!” She called to Harry, his back was turned to her as he seemed to be doing something at the counter. He jumped a bit as he turned around quickly.

“Hey you, already done changing?” He asked quickly. The note of anxiety in his voice was not missed by Hermione.

“What are you hiding, Harry?” She asked suspiciously while walking closer to him. His hands clutched the side of the counter even tighter as he laughed.

“Nothing Hermione. Why don’t you see what Ron and Adrienne are doing.” He said. Hermione tried to peek around Harry.

“They’re discussing the queerer parts of our relationship.” She answered, preoccupied with trying to snoop. Harry let his guard down for a moment, releasing the counter just as Hermione was close enough to grab his shoulders and move him to the side a bit.

Behind Harry on the counter was a small cake that read “Congratulations Hermione.”

“Oh Harry,” she said smiling brightly, “you shouldn’t have!” She smiled up at him but he just looked down seriously at her. She suddenly realized they were much closer than she had meant to get. She was practically pressed up against him.

“I wanted to,” he said softly, brushing a piece of hair away from her face. The movement seemed to happen on it’s own as his hand paused inches away from her face until he dropped it back at his side. Hermione just looked away, but didn’t dare move away from him, her hands still holding his shoulders.

“Hermione,” she heard him whisper. He touched the sides of her lightly, brushing his fingers against her hips, “what are the queerer parts of our relationship?” She looked up at him, eyes shining and she noticed now would be the perfect time to kiss him. The thought struck her so plainly and so clearly that she was shocked by its presence.

She stared at the face of her best friend. Her eyes grazed over the familiar contours of his cheeks and nose. She almost smiled at the constantly messy hair that always seemed to be staging a resistance against any kind of taming. Her eyes met his, burning an emerald that was greener than she was used to, and she realized that she merely didn’t want to study his face but she wanted to take it in her hands and trace every line. She wanted to feel him beneath her fingertips, and the feeling was so overwhelming it took all her willpower not to move her hands the inches it would take to make it a possibility, or even worse, she tried not to lean in the mere inches she would have to cross to meet his lips.

“They think it’s strange I keep a lot of my stuff here.” She whispered, entranced by his green eyes. It was like he was feeding her vertiserum and she would share all of her secrets with him tonight. Anything he wanted to know she would tell.

“Do you think it’s strange?” He asked, playing with a lock of her hair. She sighed deeply for a moment. Was it strange? It probably wasn’t something everyone did, but it just seemed right for them to keep stuff at each other’s flats.

“I like it here.” She said softly. He smiled at this.

“That works for me.” He leaned down slowly and for a moment panic ran through her as she saw his eyes close. Her breath caught in her throat as she felt his lips land gently on her forehead.

“Is it serious?” She finally asked the question that had been burning in her chest ever since Ginny had brought it up.

“Is what serious?” He asked hesitantly.

“You and Adrienne.” She answered, suddenly overly aware of how much this answer actually mattered to her. He looked down into her eyes, biting his lip thoughtfully.

“I don’t really know.” She let her arms drop from his shoulders and took a slight step back. He sighed looking at her with a mixture of affection and agitation. She looked back with the same things in her own eyes.

“That wasn’t the answer I was expecting.” She said truthfully and he shrugged.

“I don’t really know what you expect from me sometimes, Hermione.” When he saw the hurt in her eyes his will to fight disappeared, as always and once again he felt like a git for upsetting her.

She took a step back, realizing that her… Ron and Harry’s…female friend, were in the other room.

“I bet they’re wondering where we are.” Harry said in a much lighter tone. He turned around and grabbed the cake. Hermione noticed the cake was shaking slightly and knew that her own hands were shaking too. She made to make her way out of the kitchen but Harry called her back for a moment.

“Hermione,” he called and she paused, turning back around to face him. He was holding the cake and the candle was now lit, adding a warm glow to his features, “I’m gonna miss you.” He said with a sheepish smile. She goofily returned it before heading into the other room while he followed. She was going to miss him too and that fact struck so true and so painful to her it scared her in a way that made her feel like something had to be done. She only hoped that the luck that had followed around the trio for years, mixed with her Gryffindor courage and bookworm smarts would get her through it, but honestly, those things are hardly useful in matters of the heart.

A/N: Alright there’s your continuation of chapter 4. Hermione is going to be in for some surprises when she gets back from France; that’s all I’m going to say!