You are viewing a story from harrypotterfanfiction.com
View Online
Format: Novella
Chapters: 23
Word Count: 42,526
Status: WIP
Rating: 15+
Warnings:
Genres: Romance, General, Angst, Mystery
Characters: Draco, Ginny, Harry, Cho, Dumbledore, Hermione, Neville, Remus Lupin, Ron, Snape, Voldemort, Fred/George, Tonks, Luna, Seamus, M. McGonagall
Pairings: Harry/Hermione
First Published: 10/30/2004
Last Chapter: 02/08/2006
Last Updated: 02/09/2006
Summary:
Harry is assaulted the summer after his 5th year at Hogwarts. He is stabbed not only once, but a few times by an ancient weapon called the "Subtle Knife". Will Harry live to escape this lethal attack like he did Voldemort’s when he was a mere baby? The mystery Hermione and Ron are trying to uncover is who attacked him, and the reasons as to why Harry wouldn't tell anyone, including them about it. "... if the patient is not treated immediately..."
I promise it get's better! So please keep reading! I promise you that as the chapters go on, the stories will get better and better! Please don't give up on this story!! A lot of people are actually loving it! :)
“Ronald! What could be taking you so long? You’re a guy, and guys don’t take long in the bathroom!” Ginny bellowed from outside the locked door.
“Excuse me, you who spends no less than an hour fixing your hair!” Ron’s muffled voice echoed from behind the bathroom door.
“I promise if you don’t get out of there right now Ron…” Ginny continued, now pounding on the door.
“Can’t you just use some spell or something to get your hair to do that twisty thing that takes so long?!” He scoffed, behind the locked door.
Ginny let out a growl that resounded with pure aggravation.
“It amazes me you’re intelligent enough to remember to breathe Ron! I’m not at Hogwarts and therefore can’t use magic!” The last part of her outburst spilled from her mouth with such speed it was nearly impossible to comprehend what she had said at all.
Harry chuckled quietly in Ron’s room. He quickly put his luggage down, and quietly headed downstairs.
Harry looked around and came to see Mrs. Weasley approaching him with her arms outstretched. “Arthur had told me you had arrived!”
“Harry dear, you’ve grown so much.” Mrs. Weasley wobbled, absently brushing him off. (He had collected quite an amount of dust from traveling by Floo powder).
She pulled away from him as if to examine him, and much to Harry’s appease, she seemed satisfied.
Harry smiled, and kissed her on the cheek which made her slightly pink in the face. "Thank you for letting me stay for the rest of the summer.”
“Harry! You don’t have to thank us! You’re family; you’re like one of my own.” Mrs. Weasley said exasperatedly.
“It’s the only thing I can do. You and you’re family have done so much for me, and I actually do regard myself as part of the Weasley family too.” Harry replied sincerely. “Speaking of FAMILY, my hand still isn’t on your Weasley family clock…” Harry joked.
“Oh Harry! Come here.” Mrs. Weasley wobbled, pulling Harry into another one of her motherly hugs.
“Oh look, mum’s getting all emotional again!” Ron laughed as he walked across the room over to Harry. “Hey mate!! How’ve you been? Have the Dursley’s been treating you alright?”
“Hey Ron, It’s good to see you. Yeah…the Dursley’s have been ok.” Harry forced a weak smile for Mr. and Mrs. Weasley’s sake.
"Hmm, I had better prepare our supper now. Excuse me boys." Mrs. Weasley said hurriedly, heading for the kitchen.
“Harry!!” Fred and George yelled in unison. They had just apparated in the middle of the room.
“My, my...Harry. You’ve grown to be quite the lady’s man, don’t you think Fred?” George nudged him in the shoulder.
“I totally agree George. It’s obvious Harry’s been working out.” Fred said, winking at Harry. This time Harry couldn’t help but smile. Somehow Fred and George always made him laugh.
“Harry!!” Ginny screamed on the top of her lungs, causing Harry to flinch. The name screaming was getting quite annoying.
Why can't they just say my name?
“Oh it’s great to see you again! You look fantastic Harry…” Ginny said as she eyed him up and down.
“It’s good to see you to Gin. You look great yourself." Harry said gently, observing the ‘all grown up’ looking Ginny. He also noticed that she hadn’t finished curling all of her hair yet. One side was straight and sleek, whilst the other was soft and curly…which made his thoughts drift to Hermione.
I wonder if she’s here yet…
“What’s going on?—HARRY! You’re here!” Harry didn’t even get a chance to properly look at her because she screamed as she ran up to him to give him one of her trademark hugs.
Not again...
“How are you?” Harry managed to get out.
“Hermione let the guy breathe!” Ron laughed, and at the same time Fred and George winked at Harry and mouthed “babe magnet”.
“Sorry about that Harry, I was just excited that…” Hermione’s face turned crimson as she was explaining, but she widened her eyes at the sight of blood on Harry’s skivvies. You could just see through the opening of his jacket. Harry noticed what Hermione was staring at, and he immediately zipped up his jacket so no one else could see.
“I’m going to go see if Mrs. Weasley needs any help.” He smiled quickly, before scooting off quickly into the kitchen. He didn’t want anyone knowing about what had happened at the Dursley's.
"Come on guys, there's about an hour of Quidditch to play. You and Hermione can get the gear Ginny." Fred suggested.
"Yeah, ok." Ron said excitedly. "I’ll help you guys get the brooms then...I think they're in the Garage!"
"Ok, let's go." George said, ushering Fred along.
"Are you playing Harry?" Ginny asked, halfway up the stairs.
"Nah, I'll pass." Harry replied. "I'll just help in the kitchen."
"Are you sure? Ok then."
***
Hermione and Ginny had walked outside, and Ginny began shaking mad.
“Ginny, what’s wrong? Are you okay?” Hermione asked worriedly.
Ginny was laughing, no she was giggling her head off.
“What!?” Hermione asked quizzically. “What’s so funny?”
“Well…it’s just funny seeing someone who’s so much in love.” Ginny said, beginning to laugh again.
“Who’s in love? Do you think I’m in love with Harry??” Hermione asked, annoyed.
“I didn’t say anything about Harry. Those are your words…” Ginny was having such a laughing fit. “And anyway, anyone could tell you liked Harry by the way you gaped at him earlier.”
“Shut up!” Hermione whispered. “Look, he’s just my best friend ok? Now can you please leave me alone?”
“Alright then! Humph…but don’t you think he looked gorgeous? Well…I mean, he looks so cute with that turtle-neck!” Ginny said excitedly, and Hermione blushed at the question. She didn’t want to think of Harry this way. “Come on Hermione! You’re just making it harder for yourself! Just say it, YOU’RE IN LOVE!”
“Oooo…so who’s Hermione in love with?” Ron asked inquisitively, as he and Harry walked outside.
“She’s in love with a Quidditch player! A very good Quidditch player indeed.” Ginny blurted but Hermione slapped her on the back.
“Oh come on Hermione? Tell us! Well, hold on…it can’t be from Hufflepuff, or Ravenclaw, and Slytherin because they’re all crap…so our only choice is GRYFFINDOR!” Ron bellowed. “Ahah! So…it’s either Me or Harry isn’t it?” Hermione blushed even more so at this, but she quickly replied to save her embarrassment.
“Who says he goes to Hogwarts!” She exclaimed rolling her eyes.
“Victor Krum.” Harry said looking straight into Hermione’s eyes. She was speechless, but for the meantime, it was a good cover up.
“Vicky eh?” Ron swore, “Don’t tell me you’re in LOVE with that prick?”
“Leave her personal life alone, come on…let’s just play!” Harry said breaking the silence, and with that Harry and Ron ran onto the small field in their backyard.
“That was close GINNY!” Hermione glared at her.
“What do you mean that was close?? SO…I was right! You do fancy Harry don’t you?” Ginny whispered.
“I really don’t know ok? Maybe I do…sort of, I don’t know! It’s nothing really ok!? It’s merely platonic affection, so don’t get anymore ideas.” Hermione whimpered. “What about your own attraction towards Harry? Why don’t you get all excited about that?”
“I don’t know either. Harry’s kind of like a brother now…and plus, it’s much more exciting to see him hook up with my dear friend Hermione.”
“Oh please.” Hermione was blushing again.
Everyone was having a great time at supper, all except for Harry. As much as he loved Mrs. Weasley’s cooking, he just wasn’t in the mood for eating. Every time there was a joke said aloud, Harry would pretend to smile. He didn't want to ruin the night, besides no one seemed to notice anyway. No one except for Hermione. All throughout supper, things were a little tense between them. Every so often, Hermione would steal a few glances at him, making him feel very uncomfortable.
“Harry, dear…would you like some more pudding?” Mrs. Weasley asked kindly.
“No, thank you…I think I’ve eaten enough.” Harry replied politely patting his stomach.
“What? Harry you’ve hardly eaten anything!” Ron bellowed with his mouth full of desserts.
“To you, Ron – with an appetite as big as a whale, what I’ve eaten is nothing…but mind you I’ve had seconds, plus dessert…so I think that’s alright for a human.” Harry said smiling up at Ron, and everyone laughed at this statement.
“Good one Harry! Cheers!” Fred laughed, and lifted up his glass of pumpkin juice.
“Cheers!” Everyone yelled in unison.
“Hey! I’m a growing man…I need my sustenance!!” Ron reasoned, but then soon gave up and laughed along with everyone else.
After tea, everyone went to the living room for some games, but Harry stayed behind and cleaned up.
“Harry, what on earth are you doing?” Mrs. Weasley exclaimed. Almost everyone in the living room turned their heads to Mrs. Weasley and Harry.
“I’m washing the dishes.” Harry said shrugging his shoulders.
“Harry, Harry, Harry…it’s the holidays, you’re supposed to be having fun doing what you kids do on the holidays…playing games and all.” Mrs. Weasley reasoned.
“But…this is what I do during the--I guess it’s just a habit to me…” Harry explained.
“Harry, don’t worry about it. Let me finish it off. Why don’t you just go and have some fun.” Mrs. Weasley replied worriedly.
“Hey Harry…come over here, how about a game of exploding snap?” Ron yelled from half-way across the room.
“Nahh…I’ll pass. Maybe later...” Harry said as he headed outside and laid himself down on the canopy. His thoughts almost immediately drifted off to his parents, Cedric, Sirius and all the people who were hurt by Voldemort.
“Hey…do you want to talk?” Hermione asked as she sat beside him. As he looked up at her, he noticed her sweet and innocent smile. He turned away and averted his gaze at the stars.
“What’s there to talk about?” Harry asked gently.
“Don’t give me that Harry…I know something’s wrong, so there’s no use hiding it from me. What was that on your chest? I swear I saw blood--” Hermione started and immediately Harry’s mood changed.
““Oh this?” Harry faked a laugh. “It’s nothing, I uhh tripped over a rock when I was, cough gardening. I’m not the one with a green thumb you know…”
“You tripped over and fell on your collarbone?” Hermione raised an eyebrow at him.
“I’m perfectly fine…nothings wrong ok?!" Harry explained a little angrily.
“Ok…well if you need to talk or anything, I’m here.” Hermione said softly with tears welling up into her eyes as she walked back inside.
I want to be alone anyway. Everything would be easier if no one knows about what happened…It would just make them worry more anyway. This is the best way. Harry thought.
.:.Inside.:.
“Hermione come here, we’re about to play a new game of…” Fred started.
“No thanks, I’m a bit tired…I’ll turn in now. See you all in the morning.” Hermione said, trying to hide the emotions eating away at her.
“What’s wrong with ‘Exploding Snap’? No one wants to play it anymore!” George mused.
“I think I’ll turn in too, Goodnight.” Ginny said quickly and ran up the stairs to the room she was sharing with Hermione.
“You see what I mean?” George started again.
“Maybe we should try another game…” Fred pondered.
“Mione?” Ginny whispered as she opened the door. She nearly shrieked at the sight of her. Her hair was all messed up, her eyes red and puffy from crying, and her belongings scattered everywhere.
“What’s wrong hun?” Ginny comforted as she sat beside her.
“H-Harry’s hurting…Sirius…and something else…h-he was b-bleeding, I s-saw…” Hermione began calmly but immediately broke out into tears again.
“Blood? Hermione are you sure?” Ginny asked worriedly. "Did you ask him about it?"
“H-He w-wouldn’t tell m-me…” Hermione said as she shook her head. “He told me to leave h-him al-lone…b-but how can h-he want that, when’s he’s been all alone his whole l-life…”
"Maybe it was just a small cut or something...You know how he doesn't like people worrying about him. Just give him time…” Ginny said softly as she comforted Hermione with a big hug.
.:.Meanwhile in Harry's Room.:.
"Stupid cut....ouch! I just cleaned it before..." Harry said through gritted teeth as he attempted to clean it up again.
.:.Flashback.:.
“Boy, get down here now!” Uncle Vernon yelled from downstairs.
“Not again…” Harry yawned, as he got out of bed. “What is it now?”
“HARRY!?” Uncle Vernon yelled again, but this time even louder.
“Coming!” Harry as he tidied up his bed, and then headed downstairs.
“HARRY!”
“I’m here already.” Harry said glumly.
“Hurry up and fix us some breakfast will you?” Uncle Vernon demanded.
Harry walked over to the kitchen bench and started scrambling some eggs for his Uncle.
“Aren’t you done yet? Haven’t you ever heard of fast food?” Uncle Vernon said impatiently.
“Of course I have, don't you know you have to wait for the pan to heat up before you cook something?” Harry muttered under his breath.
“What did you say?” Uncle Vernon said as he eyed Harry suspiciously.
“Nothing.”
“NO…BOY DON’T LIE! I HEARD YOU SAY SOMETHING!” Uncle Vernon stood up and held Harry’s shirt.
“It was nothing.” Harry said softly.
“No wonder everyone hates you in that Magical World of yours! It’s because you’re useless! You couldn't even kill that Veldomart-whatsits after how many encounters. What about saving that stupid Godfather of yours? I tell you it would have saved us the trouble of keeping you here!” Uncle Vernon spat.
“My Godfather was NOT stupid. I’d rather live with a pig than you. They seem to have more etiquette…” Harry said fumingly.
“We gave you food, clothes, and a roof to sleep under and this is how you repay us?!” Uncle Vernon yelled.
"What's that your hold--" Harry asked as his Uncle took out a strange looking knife. Before Harry could say more he winced in pain as his Uncle Vernon quickly slid it across his chest. He noticed that the knife was no ordinary knife. It had Ancient carvings carefully engraved on its pearlescent handle.
“Where did you get that from?” Harry spat as he stumbled to the floor. His vision was now blurred and his muscles weak.
"I knew I needed protection from you some day!” He laughed as he kicked and pushed Harry around the room. Broken blood-covered furniture was everywhere on the kitchen floor.
As hard as Harry tried to fight back, he couldn’t concentrate. His mind was blank, and his body didn’t seem to respond. Harry felt like he was dead.
.:.End of flashback.:.
Harry got up early and went for a fly around the Burrow. The smell of the fresh air always made his insides squirm and the sensation of the wind blowing on his skin was soothing. Harry loved the beautiful bird’s eye view of everything. Flying was somewhat the only thing that could get his mind focused and relaxed.
After a few laps, Harry flew down to a clear spot just a few meters behind the Weasley’s House. As he descended he saw a small figure in the distance. To his surprise it was Hermione. She was reading an overly large book under a tree.
“Maybe I should apologise…I was a bit hard on her…” Harry contemplated.
“Err…Hey ‘Mione…” Harry said awkwardly. He noticed her blood-shot eyes and the big bags under them. She looked like she hadn’t slept at all.
“Hi.” Hermione said barely audibly.
“What are you doing out here?”
“Reading.” Hermione stated, not leaving her eyes from the book she was reading.
“So, is it good?” Harry asked trying to sound interested.
“Ahuh,” Hermione replied, still not looking at Harry. Neither of them spoke for what seemed a long time to Harry, so he immediately broke the silence.
“OK…OK. I get the point! I’m sorry ok?” Harry said. “Please, don’t do this…I didn’t mean to get up you…I was just upset!” Harry pleaded.
“So, you’re saying it was my all fault and I should avoid talking to you when you’re upset?” Hermione said finally looking up at him.
“I never said it was your fault--” Harry tried to explain, but Hermione cut him off straight.
“What is your problem Harry? You’re such a mystery…you hide everything; you keep everything to yourself…and then what? You get angry at us because we don’t understand! How are we supposed to know if you don’t tell us?” Hermione had slammed her book shut now.
“Hermione…”
“No, Harry…I don’t even know how to have a proper conversation with you anymore! One day you’re mad, the next day you act as if nothing happened. Yesterday I was only trying to help…” Hermione said breathlessly with tears ready to fall. She stood up and left a very bemused Harry.
***
Harry entered the room feeling a little guilty. Hermione was right. He had been keeping secrets from her and Ron, but he was doing it for their own good. At least that's what he thought.
“Hey Harry. Come on, it’s breakfast time.” Ron said ushering Harry towards a seat next to him.
“Here’s a plate Harry dear…now where did you get off too early this morning?” Mrs. Weasley asked curiously.
“Well…I just went for a little stroll around the Burrow…Don’t worry I didn’t go too far.” Harry said when he saw a hint of suspicion from Mrs. Weasley.
“Alright then…” As Mrs. Weasley finished, Hermione walked into the room. Harry saw that she had cleaned herself up. The bags under her eyes looked like they weren’t even there at all. Hermione was wearing a baby blue shirt with jeans, and her hair was tied up in a high ponytail. She was truly beautiful.
“Beautiful…? What I am thinking!?” Harry thought anxiously to himself.
“Hermione dear…breakfast time come have a seat.” Mrs. Weasley said kindly. Harry noticed that there were only two seats left at the table for Hermione to sit in. There was one beside him, and one on the other side of Ron.
“Morning Hermione,” Ron said cheerfully.
“Morning Ron,” Hermione replied smiling up at him, then her eyes averted to Harry’s gaze. She suddenly felt upset, remembering how rude Harry was to her. Without hesitation she took a seat next to Ron. Harry couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealousy.
"I’m not jealous…am I? NO! I can’t be…she’s my best friend!” Harry contemplated.
“Harry…HARRY?” Fred asked.
“Umm…yeah?” Harry said quickly as he snapped out of his thoughts of Hermione.
“I said…could you pass the box of cereal please!” Fred said rolling his eyes.
“Oh, sorry Fred…I wasn’t paying attention—” Harry tried to explain, but he suddenly felt pain in his chest. Harry swiftly clasped a hand to his heart.
“Are you alright mate?” Ron asked worriedly. His scar was lighting up, and his eyes looked like they were going into the back of his head. Hermione looked at Harry nervously.
“HARRY! You’re bleeding” Ginny stood up and screamed, as she saw blood coming out of his nose.
“Please don’t hurt my friends…go away!” Harry yelled, and fell to the floor.
“Fred, George! Quickly get Harry upstairs now! Ron, go get the medi-kit and I’ll call Professor Dumbledore immediately.
Ok...this is a short chappy, but I'll go into more details about what happened to Harry in the next chapter ok? Assesment week for me, and I haven't had time to post the chapters. Thanks for R&R I really appreciate it.
.:.St. Mungo’s Hospital.:.
“Where’s Harry Potter?” Ron asked impatiently.
“Your name sir?” The secretary asked.
“Ronald Weasley.”
“Sir, sorry…it’s strictly family.”
“We are family! What’s his room number?” Ron said angrily.
“342 ICU” The secretary said.
“What? ICU?” Hermione shrieked.
“Intensive Care Unit--” The secretary explained.
“I know what it is!!” Hermione sobbed.
“Don’t worry, Come on let’s go meet up with Ginny and the rest of the family.” Ron assured her.
As they approached the Intensive Care Unit, they caught a glimpse of Mrs. Weasley & Ginny talking with Professor Dumbledore.
“Mrs. Weasley? Professor? What’s going on? Why’s Harry in the ICU?” Hermione pleaded, but Mrs. Weasley didn’t reply. She mumbled something incoherent and looked at Hermione and Ron earnestly.
“Harry need’s his rest, why don’t you see him tomorrow?” Dumbledore said carefully.
“NO! I have to see him now…He needs me!” Hermione said angrily.
“Hermione, settle down! You’re not the only one worried here! You need to calm down.” Ron said firmly.
“You may see him for a few minutes, but then you must leave him in peace. Harry need’s his rest.” Dumbledore said. “Ron…may I have a word with you?”
“Yeah, sure ---Uh Hermione you can go on ahead.” Ron said as he walked over to the corner of the hallway, to speak with Dumbledore.
Meanwhile Ginny motioned Hermione over to the side and whispered sadly. “Harry’s hurt real bad. He’s got this massive cut on his chest…I think that’s what you saw bleeding through Harry’s clothes the day he arrived at the Burrow.”
“I want to see him...” Hermione said firmly, and with that Ginny lead her through the door.
“HARRY!” Hermione screamed as she knelt beside him. “No…wake up…”
“Hermione what’s wrong---” Ron asked as he walked through the door. He stopped dead in his tracks. His eyes glistened at the sight of Harry, and all of a sudden a bushy-haired Hermione approached him and cried her heart out in his arms.
2 weeks later.
Hermione ran her fingers through his raven coloured hair. It felt so soft and smooth on her skin. Her hand moved unintentionally to the lightning bolt scar on his forehead. “This was the scar of all the scars Harry had obtained…the one the started it all…” Hermione thought. Harry had been through so much more than he should have had to deal with. She suddenly laced her fingers with his, holding his hand firmly.
“Please wake up soon Harry…” Hermione whispered with tears in her eyes as she leant down and planted a soft kiss on Harry’s lips.
***
"Wake up dear..." Mrs. Weasley said softly as she nudged Hermione awake.
"What...?" Hermione said sleepily.
“Hermione, it’s alright. I’ll stay here with Harry for the afternoon. You’ve spent more than enough time here at the hospital. You need some rest.” Mrs. Weasley said.
“But—Mrs. Weasley…I want to be here when he wakes up.” Hermione reasoned.
“I don’t want to sound negative here, but Hermione…Harry might not wake up for a few more weeks.” Mrs. Weasley said sadly.
“What? How come? Tell me…what did the Doctor say?” Hermione cried. “Harry’s going to live isn’t he?”
“Later at supper, Dumbledore will announce to the Order and everyone else about Harry’s conditions…alright? Now come on, Ginny and Ron are waiting outside. You need to go to Diagon Alley for your books.” Mrs. Weasley said firmly. It was clear that she wasn’t going to take ‘no’ for an answer.
“Ok…please let me know if something happens.” Hermione said softly.
***
.:.Diagon Alley.:.
“OK…so how many owls did you get Ron?” Ginny asked.
“Err…only 8, so that means I can’t be an auror…but on the bright side, NO MORE SNAPE!” Ron said rather optimistically. Throughout the walk in Diagon Alley, Ginny and Ron argued about which books to buy and so on, but Hermione wasn’t paying the slightest attention. She couldn’t get her mind of Harry. His pale face, the blank expression he had, the huge cut on his chest and all the other cuts and bruises Harry had obtained. Harry looked so scared and lifeless.
“I wonder how many owls Harry got…No ones opened his letter yet hey?” Ginny pondered.
“I don’t know…we’ll just have to ask him when he wakes up I guess…” Ron replied.
“How? Who did this to Harry?” Hermione cried softly.
“‘Mione? Are you ok?” Ginny asked gently.
“Why did they do this to Harry? What’s he ever done?” Hermione replied ignoring Ginny’s question.
“Hermione, we all know Harry didn’t deserve any of this. The Order, Dumbledore and everyone else are trying their best to find out who did this to him. I promise…Harry will live. I know he will.” Ron said seriously. Hermione looked up at him, and thought that Ron couldn’t have said anything better. She felt lighter and more appreciative of him at this time - More so than the whole 5 years she’s spent with him.
“I guess you're right...umm thanks Ron,” Hermione said sweetly as she gave him a peck on the cheek. Ron went as red as his hair. “You too Gin, thanks heaps.”
“We all have to stick together in this for Harry.” Ginny said brightly.
.:.Number 12 Grimmauld Place.:.
“Ok, before everyone leaves the dinner table…I’d like to discuss what we’re all here for. I may as well tell you all now, instead of rounding you up again later.” Dumbledore said rather seriously. There were murmurs around the dinner table. Remus, Tonks, Moody, Snape and everyone from the Order was there.
“I wonder what he’s gonna say…” Fred said rather excitedly in an undertone.
“Isn’t it obvious you dimwit! We’re here to talk about Harry! Have you gone completely bonkers or something!” George whispered angrily.
“Sorry…I thought--”
“Yeah…you thought we’re actually going to hear in the good stuff, about You-know-who…in case you’ve forgotten; we’re not part of the Order!”
“Shut up your two, I can’t hear what Dumbledore is saying!” Ginny said furiously as she hit the two in the head with her cutlery.
“Ouch!” They whispered in unison.
“Fred, George!” Professor McGonagall exclaimed.
“I’m afraid Harry has been stabbed by the “Subtle Knife”.” Dumbledore continued. A few “Oh my’s” around were whispered around the room.
“Professor, what’s the “Subtle Knife”?” Ron asked worriedly.
“It’s a very sacred knife Dark Wizards used in the old days. A very powerful knife indeed. No naked eye can see its very vertices…” Dumbledore answered.
“Yeah…I’ve heard of these knives…a few Death eaters use them, but it’s seldom seen around these days. I believe they are very rare.” Lupin added.
“Yes…that’s very true Remus.” Dumbledore said.
“So…what does that mean? What exactly happened to Harry?” Ginny asked.
“Well…when the knife cuts into something, it sends out deadly poisons that travel through the system, disabling all muscle movement. Thus making the patient become paralyzed. If the patient doesn’t receive treatment immediately, the poisons will then eventually lead to the heart.” Dumbledore said.
“So why aren’t they treating Harry NOW!?” Fred yelled heatedly.
“Fred! Sit down! Shouting will not in anyway help Harry.” Mrs. Weasley said crossly.
“There is no cure available at this time…because the flower plant we need is not in season…we’ll have to wait about a month.” Snape said smugly.
“A month? What? How much time does Harry have?” Fred asked.
“It’s been about 2 weeks since Harry passed out…so he only has 3 weeks to last…before the poisons reach his heart.” Lupin said quietly.
“What? No way! Harry’s only a week short? There’s got to be another way…” Professor McGonagall said.
“Harry may have longer…depending on how his body can cope and on what the Medi-witches can do…” Lupin added.
“We’re doing everything we can Minerva…” Dumbledore replied.
Then the whole room was suddenly filled with suggestions and arguments on the situation. Hermione hadn't spoke a word all night. She was so scared. She couldn’t hold the pain she felt any longer. She needed to get away and she wanted to cry so badly. Suddenly, Hermione stood up, and ran out of the room.
“Poor thing…I’ll go talk to her.” Mrs. Weasley said assuring everyone.
“I’ll come too…” Ron started but then Mrs. Weasley stopped him.
“No Ron…its best you stay here with Ginny and your brothers. You need to hear what’s going on.”
“Yeah Ron…you’re getting a little too o-v-e-r-protective, if you know what I mean George.” Fred laughed quietly.
“Oh yes, I think our ickle-ronnikkin’s is in love with his best friend! Is that right?” George said as he nudged Ron in the shoulder.
“Shut up! I-I’m not in l-love with h-her!” Ron said softly, looking a flushed.
“Our little brother is growing up! AWww….” Fred whispered.
"I said shut-up already!" Ron said through gritted teeth.
***
“Hermione dear? It’s me, Mrs. Weasley. May I come in…?” Mrs. Weasley asked sincerely.
“Yeah…” Hermione sobbed.
“What’s wrong dear?” Mrs. Weasley confided.
“Nothing really, I’m fine…”
“Hermione, don’t even try to hide it any longer. If you were fine, you wouldn’t be like this.”
“I’m just worried about Harry…and with everything Dumbledore was saying…it was all too much. I-I just want Harry to wake up s-so bad!” Hermione said crying her eyes out.
“It’s going to be alright dear…I promise you…” Mrs. Weasley said as she held Hermione in her arms.
Hermione was looking out at the stars on the balcony. She couldn’t sleep. She remembered the cartoon Pinocchio, and how the old man wished the stars for a son. Maybe she could do the same…maybe she could wish the stars for Harry. As much as she wanted to deny it, Pinocchio was just a fairytale.
“Hey Mione…what are you doing up?” Ron said softly.
“I could ask you the same...” Hermione said.
“I was thinking about what Dumbledore said about Harry.” Ron said honestly.
“Yeah, same…” Hermione said as she looked up at him. “Whoever did this to Harry is going to pay big time.”
“It was Harry’s uncle…”
“What? No way! How did he get a knife like that? Harry’s uncle doesn't have a clue about anything magical…” Hermione started.
“Maybe he didn’t know it was magical…?” Ron suggested.
“The chances of the Dursley’s getting a knife, as magical and as rare as that one is highly unlikely.”
“Yeah, well anyway…Dumbledore says that Petunia had gone away for awhile, and things went haywire for Harry with Uncle Vernon, and Dudley. He couldn’t fight back the night he was stabbed because the poisons were fast reacting, and he became semi-paralyzed or something.”
“Honestly…what’s Harry ever done to them?” Hermione said angrily, as her eyes started to glisten. Just then, Ron came up to Hermione and wiped the tears from her eyes with his hand. Hermione was speechless. She hadn’t been this closein contact with Ron. She could see his blue-grey eyes looking into her own. Before she knew it, they were inching closer and closer to each other.
****
Hmm...I tried to be a lot more descriptive in this one...you'll find out why later. Sorry if it doesn't sound that great...:( I'm not the one for describing things in detail! Just use your imagination!!
Suddenly a sweep of cold air brushed Harry’s face sending goose bumps on his arms and neck. He quickly rubbed his hands on his arms, in attempt to flatten the hairs that were standing up on straight end.
“Where am I?” Harry asked himself as he looked around the cold damp place, trying to find an exit.
Unfortunately, everything looked the same everywhere Harry went. He tried to remain calm, but he felt so frustrated. Just as Harry took a breath, the tree’s started to whisper amongst themselves. They eventually got louder and louder.
“STOP IT! LEAVE ME ALONE!!” Harry exclaimed.
Harry felt someone brush beside him. He looked around, but saw nothing. He was scared. Harry ran in the direction in front of him, but he immediately stopped as he heard footsteps behind him. He turned around, but nothing was there. He was so desperate he cried for help. A man in dark clothes appeared out of nowhere beside him. He was tall and thin, with long black hair. Harry couldn’t make out his face. It was too dark to be able to see anything properly.
“You wanted help?” the man said laughing.
He wouldn’t stop. The sound of his laughter was ringing in Harry’s ears. Harry was deafened.
“Who are you? GO AWAY…PLEASE!!!” Harry demanded.
“It’s all your fault Harry!” The man said in a deep voice and then revealed his face. It was Voldemort. Suddenly, the surroundings changed. They were transported to a graveyard.
Harry at once took out his wand, and shot out beams towards Voldemort. Nothing happened. Voldemort was laughing again.
“Don’t you get it? You can’t kill me…no one can!” Voldemort snorted.
“You’re going to pay for all the people you’ve hurt! I don’t care what you say…I’m going to kill you!!” Harry shouted in anger.
“All the people I’ve hurt? Well yes…but it was still your fault.”
“I have nothing to do with hurting anyone!” Harry replied.
“Are you so sure Harry? You were the reason your parents died. You were the reason many other people protecting you died. You were part of the reason Cedric died. You could have saved him, but you wanted him dead so you could be with Cho.” Voldemort reasoned.
“T-That’s n-not true.” Harry said.
“Oh yes it is…but there’s more. What about Mr. Weasley…didn’t you in fact almost kill him? You bit him last year didn’t you? What about Ginny? She almost died because of you too…and there’s Hermione…she was petrified! Hey…didn’t you upset her when you were at the Weasley’s earlier this summer? You wouldn’t tell her anything…and all she wanted to do was help, but you were too arrogant to tell her. What about your Aunt Marge? You blew her up too. Oh yes…of course you’ve killed about hundreds of Dementors and other creatures…the list seems endless…”
“No…” Harry said softly as he fell to his knees.
“Oh my…I forgot one something...You’re the reason your Godfather died. Yes…Sirius Black was his name right? Don't you see Harry, it is all your fault! You're the reason those people were hurt, and you the reason why the whole world is in danger!!” Voldemort laughed. “You’re just a scared little boy aren’t you?"
Harry immediately sat up covered all over in sweat. He had the biggest headache. The words Voldemort last spoke was ringing in his head. He looked around to find himself in a hospital bed. Harry noticed he had all these tubes on his body - some attached on his arms, and one going through his nose.
“What’s going on?” He asked himself. “What’s all this?”
As Harry shuffled about, a tube was pulled out and one of the machines in his room starting beeping. Doctors and Nurses came running in, and as they entered their eyes widened in amazement.
“He’s awake! How did this happen? Nurse, can you call Professor Dumbledore immediately!?” The Doctor said excitedly.
“Excuse me sir, what exactly is going on…?” Harry asked. Then suddenly Professor Dumbledore, the Weasley’s, Tonks, Lupin, Moody and Professor McGonagall entered.
“Harry! You’re finally awake!!” Mrs. Weasley screamed.
“Harry!!” Ginny and Hermione screamed in unison.
“Good to see you finally awake Harry!” Ron said excitedly. Harry noticed Ron’s hand was laced over with Hermione’s.
“We were so worried about you Harry…” Hermione said softly.
“Harry mate, it’s good to see your ok. A lot has happened since you passed out...Fred and I have---” George said, but Fred immediately cut in.
“Yeah, we’ve finally finished our new projects for the Joke shop and everything! The whole store has been renovated and…” Fred started
“Boys, settle down. Harry must be tired.” Professor McGonagall stated.
“No, its ok…but what do guys mean by a lot has happened, and that I’m finally awake? I’ve only been out for a night or so haven’t I?” Harry asked puzzled.
“Harry, you’ve been out for at least a month now. School is going to start tomorrow!” Ron said exasperatedly.
“OK, kids out you go. We need to discuss a few things with Harry.” Mrs. Weasley said, as she ushered them out the door. “Don’t worry guys; you can see him at school very soon.”
“Professor, what’s going on? Why was I out for so long? PLEASE YOU HAVE TELL ME WHAT’S GOING ON!” Harry said impatiently.
***
“Just remember to take this green potion-tablet everyday. It’s the only way you can stop the poisons from ever getting to you heart. This Blue one is for you to take every two days. It will help you fight the paralysis poisons already in your muscles.” Professor Dumbledore said seriously as he handed the medicine to Harry. “Remember do not tell anyone about what happened, and do not tell anyone about the potion-tablets you’re taking. Don’t forget to tell Professor Snape when you need another batch understood?”
“Yes, Professor.” Harry said softly, as if he didn’t really care at all.
“Ok then, have a good sleep.”
Harry couldn’t be even more depressed. He had to stuff his mouth full of potion-tablets for the rest of his life. Well, at least maybe only until he faced Voldemort. It’s either Voldemort ending up dead, or himself. Harry knew what he needed to do. Dumbledore had told him so earlier. He had to face Voldemort now in his 6th year. Harry sighed as he took off his glasses, and lay in his bed thinking of what was to become of him.
***
Heheheh...trouble is brewing...Please Review!
Sorry if there's a lot of dialogue in this chapter...I couldn't help it :(
Harry was sitting in a compartment by himself. He wanted to see his two best-friends Ron and Hermione so badly. There were still so many questions he needed to ask. He felt so alone. One whole month of his life was taken away from him, and now he felt like he didn’t belong.
“Maybe it is all my fault…” Harry whispered
“Harry, Harry! Why the far off look?” Fred shouted. “Cheer up mate!”
“Hey Fred and George, sorry I was…” Harry explained.
“--off with the fairies??” George finished. “Anyway, what were you saying before? It’s all your fault what--?
“Oh…No, err…nothing, did I really say that?” Harry said quickly.
“Alright then if you say so…WOAH Mate, your nose is bleeding again!” Fred said worriedly.
“What?” Harry put a hand over his nose and slowly lowered his hand. There was blood all over his fingers. Without further ado, Harry quickly wiped it up with a handkerchief from his pocket.
“Are you ok? Maybe it’s a---” George asked, but was cut off by Ron entering the compartment
“Hey guys! Blimey Harry…Is that blood on your handkerchief?” Ron asked nervously.
“It’s nothing Ron, Err…I was umm, picking my nose before and I must of, err…scratched…yeah, you know what I mean!” Harry said quickly.
“Ahah! Didn’t your parents ever tell you not to pick your nose with your fingers Harry?” Ron laughed, and immediately stopped after he saw the depressed look on Harry's face.
“Sorry, mate…I didn’t mean to…” Ron explained. He didn’t mean to offend Harry. He had completely forgotten Harry grew up without his parents.
“It’s ok, don’t worry about it…” Harry said blankly.
“Well anyways, we have heaps to talk about mate!” Ron said patting Harry on the shoulder. Just then Hermione came in. She squealed before giving Harry one of her bone-crushing hugs.
“I’ve missed you heaps.” Hermione said sweetly.
"That’s very true Harry! Hermione went bonkers when you were unconscious! She was at everyone’s throat.” Fred laughed.
“I…” Hermione blushed profusely.
“By the way Hermione I umm, hope your still not angry at me…I know I should have told you about the cut--” Harry started, but Hermione stopped him.
“It’s alright Harry…as long as you’re ok now.” Hermione put her bag on top of the carriage slots and sat next to Ron. "You are okay now aren't you? And you're fully recovered right?" Hermione asked, but Harry didn’t answer. He remembered Dumbledore saying not to tell anyone about his condition.
“Right Harry?” Hermione repeated.
"Well, yeah...I'm perfectly okay now." Harry said regrettably. He hated having to lie to his best-friends, but no one could know.
Harry noticed the both of them holding hands again. It was kind of getting on his nerves to see his two best-friends together. It was as if they were joined at the hip. "What exactly is going on?" Harry thought.
“Harry, there’s something we’ve been meaning to tell you.” Ron said rather seriously making Harry’s stomach lurch a little.
“Ok, I think that’s our cue to leave…See you all later!” Fred and George said rather quickly.
~~~
“Ok then, what did you want to tell me?” Harry said a little curiously.
“Well, Hermione and I…are well, we…umm…” Ron stammered with his ears going bright red.
“Harry…Ron and I are going out.” Hermione finished, to Ron’s relief. Harry of course was shocked. He was speechless. His heart was tugging in all directions.
“Are you serious?” Harry blurted.
“Well, yeah…” Ron said a little hesitantly.
“Is that okay with you Harry?” Hermione spoke sincerely.
“That’s great! Congrats guys!” Harry said a little too happily. “Excuse me, but I forgot…erhmm, I have to see Dumbledore about something…I'll be right back.”
Harry was in need to get away from that compartment immediately.
~~~
“I think that went really well, don’t you?” Ron said happily.
Hermione didn’t reply. She was too busy looking at the spot where Harry stood before he left.
“Hello! Earth to Hermione!?” Ron said a little louder.
“Huh, what was that Ron?” Hermione said rather carelessly.
“I said ‘I thought that went really well!’” Ron said exasperatingly.
“Are you sure? I thought Harry was acting a bit strange…”
“What do you mean?” Ron breathed.
“Well, you know...right after we told him, he said he needed to go see Dumbledore about something...but Dumbledore isn’t even on the train. He’s already at Hogwarts!”
“Oh true…but what does that matter?” Ron said surprisingly.
“Never mind…I just hope he’s ok.” Hermione sighed.
“Hermione and Ron!? I don’t believe it…” Harry thought to himself as he walked around the other compartments of the train. His vision started to blur, and his head was throbbing mad. “What the heck is going on?” Harry whispered as he fell to the floor knocking someone else out with him.
***
Harry was transported to the graveyard again, but this time it was much darker, and the place felt even colder and damper than before.
“It’s all your fault.” Voldemort laughed. “You’re just as bad as me! You’ve hurt so many people…”
“Can’t you just go away! I’m so tired of having to deal with you and everyone else dammit! I don’t want to fight you, I don’t want to kill or hurt anybody…I just want to be Harry…” Harry cried.
“Go away? I can’t because I’m a part of you…and you’re a part of me!” Voldemort laughed again.
“Never! You’re wrong! I’ll never be a part of you!” Harry yelled.
.:.Not so Loony after all?.:.
“I will never be a part of you…NEVER!” Harry screamed.
“Wake up and calm down Harry. What on earth are you talking about?”
“What? Where am I?” Harry asked as he looked around to the blurry visions around him.
“You have to watch where you’re going Harry!” The person said. “You fainted half-an hour ago. Come on, here are your glasses.”
“Sorry…umm thanks.” Harry awkwardly replied as he took his glasses and put them on. To his surprise the person he was talking to was Luna Lovegood. She was much taller, and a lot more mature looking. Her hair was layered and streaked black and blue.
“Loony? I mean Luna?"
“Yes…it’s me…” Luna said exasperatedly. “What? Doesn’t anybody like my new hair-do?”
“No…I mean, yes…it’s umm, nice…just different.” Harry said hesitantly.
“So, why are you so jumpy? You look as if you’ve just seen a ghost.” Luna said suspiciously. “Did my hair really have that much of an effect on you?”
“NO, no…of course not! I’ve got a lot on my mind…that’s all.” Harry said.
“Ok, come on…spit it out!” Luna said rather hastily.
“What are you talking about?” Harry asked.
“Your feelings towards Ron and Hermione being an item, of course!?” Luna exclaimed.
“How are you so sure that’s issue?” Harry asked worriedly. He really didn’t want Luna to know he was upset about it.
“Because I just know, when it comes to these things…” She replied nonchalantly.
Harry felt really freaked out. He hoped Luna wasn’t doing any mind reading voodoo on him.
“Weird…” Harry thought.
“Why are you so freaked out? I heard you say it before you fainted on top of me!” Luna said rolling her eyes.
“Oh ok then. I didn’t mean to…” Harry grinned.
“Next time, remember to take your tablets.” Luna said seriously.
“H-how did you know about that?”
“Well, these fell out of your pocket…” Luna shrugged as she handed him his potion-tablets. “This one is supposed to prevent you from feeling drowsy…So it’s either you didn’t take them, or they didn’t work.”
“Umm Luna, no one's supposed to know about this...Dumbledore--"
“--Don’t worry Harry. Hardly anyone talks to me anyway. People think I’m nuts.”
”Who cares what people think. It doesn’t necessarily make them right anyway."
***
"Are you going to tell me or not?" Luna grumbled.
“What? There’s really nothing to tell! I’m just confused at the moment. It feels like everything's changed. I don’t know what to think…my feelings are all mixed up. I’m scared of what will happen next…” Harry said all in one mouthful of air.
“Oh…so there’s really nothing to tell?” Luna said mockingly. “Harry, do you know what you’re problem is? You’re in love with Hermione!”
Harry looked Luna with wide eyes. “What?”
.:.MEANWHILE.:.
Hermione was pacing around in their compartment. She was worried about Harry again. He wasn’t himself. She couldn’t shake the feeling that Harry was in trouble.
“Ron, I’m really worried about Harry…” Hermione said uneasily. “It’s been almost an hour since he left!”
“Well, maybe the meeting with Dumbledore is taking a long time!” Ron said moodily.
“Weren’t you even listening to me before? Dumbledore isn’t even here on the train!” Hermione said angrily.
“Calm down will you Hermione!” Ron said frustratingly. “Stop pacing! You’re always like this when it comes to Harry…” Ron murmured.
"Don’t worry, I’m sure he’s ok.” Ron said exasperatedly. “Alright, come on…let’s go look for him."
***
“Where’s a good place to start--” Hermione said as she stepped out of the compartment.
“—Snogging?” Malfoy said as he approached them. Apart from being taller and having shorter hair, his loathsome attitude was yet unchanged. “Weasel and Granger, I can’t believe it. That’s absolutely disgusting! So where do you think you guys are going?”
“None of your business, so sod off…” Ron said apparently annoyed at his comment.
“I’m still a prefect so watch your attitude with me Weasel.” Malfoy said.
“If you didn’t know, Ron and I are prefects too.” Hermione said.
“Weasel a prefect this year?” Malfoy laughed as he glared Ron knowingly.
“What are--?”
“Shut your filthy mouth Mud-blood!” Malfoy spat.
“Don’t call her that you slimy git!” Ron yelled as he leapt on to him, grabbing him by the shirt.
“How about filthy-blood or worthless muggle?”
“You--” Ron had taken out his wand now.
“RON! STOP IT!” Hermione screamed, her eyes glistening. “He’s not worth it!”
“So, where’s Famous Harry Potter? Have you two ditched him or something?” Malfoy laughed, brushing himself off.
“No we haven’t! Malfoy just let us through.” Hermione reasoned.
“I can’t Granger, the train’s having bloody problems so all students must stay in their compartments.” Malfoy said. “Some word of advice - get a leash for that animal of yours.”
***
“Stupid git.” Ron said as he kicked the door. “One day--”
“Ron…” Hermione sighed as she sat back down. “What was Malfoy talking about?”
“Yeah…well, I’m no longer a prefect this year. Professor McGonagall sent me a letter during the holidays.” Ron shrugged. “Anyway, I don’t care…I’m more interested in getting Quidditch Captain.” He smirked.
“Why didn’t you tell me?”
“Well, you know how it was with Harry and everything...”
“Right…Harry…” Hermione blankly stared out the window. She knew this year was going to be tough to get through. It had only been a month and a half, and so much has already happened.
“Don’t worry Hermione. We can find him once we arrive at Hogwarts.” Ron smiled. He was happy in way because he really didn’t feel like doing anything at the moment. “I wonder when the trolley’s gonna come around?”
“You and your stomach Ron…” Hermione grinned.
“Who do you think could be replacing the impressive Ronald Weasley?”
“No Idea…” She laughed.
***
.:.The Common Room.:.
“Hey Hermione!” Lavender and Parvati greeted. “You’re looking great!”
“Um thanks. You guys look fantastic too! You haven’t by any chance seen Harry have you?”
“Yeah, he’s over there…” Parvati pointed to a dark corner of the common room.
“Oh, there he is…thank God he’s ok.” Hermione smiled.
“He looks so hot!” Lavender giggled. “I feel sorry for him though. The first year girls won’t stop harassing him!”
“So…you and Harry are going out now?” Parvati smiled mischievously.
“Me and Harry? Harry’s got his eyes set on other girls. Ron’s my boyfriend.” Hermione replied.
“Oh Ron…right, the other one! Well, see you at the feast!” Lavender and Parvati waved.
~~~
“Hey, why aren’t you at the feast?” Hermione asked softly as she approached Harry.
“I don’t want anymore nagging first years wanting autographs and pictures with me…” Harry said dully.
“Ron and I have been worried about you…You left the compartment in such a hurry, and you never came back.”
“Yeah…I needed to do something.” Harry said dully.
“Do you want to talk?”
“No. I’d rather be alone.”
“Harry…don’t do this please. Don’t keep secrets from us! I don’t want to lose you again.”
“I’m not hiding anything.” Harry lied.
“Remember on the train? You said you needed to see Dumbledore, but he wasn’t even on the train Harry!”
“So what?”
“Why are you lying to us? Harry…what’s going on?” Hermione complained.
“I DON’T KNOW! YOU TELL ME!” Harry stood up facing her, his blood-shot eyes showing pain and despair. There were marks of dry tears on his cheeks.
“I-I don’t k-know either…” Hermione stepped back. “Are you ok?”
“Yes I’m fine! Only a whole month has been taken away from me. I feel like such an idiot not knowing anything but I’m perfectly fine!” He said angrily. “You and Ron are going out! What else…hmm Fred and George have totally renovated their Joke shop, new ideas and new gimmicks etc. Ginny got braces and she’s going out with Neville...”
“But Harry, those are only the little things that have happened. Nothing has changed drastically!”
“They may seem like little things to you guys, but they mean a whole lot more to me! When a day passes, it’s gone and a whole new day comes. 28 days Hermione! A whole month! I want to know how my favourite Quidditch team is going; I want to know about the newly discovered flower…or insect whatever. I want to appreciate everything while I’m still-” Harry immediately stopped dead in his tracks.
“--Still what? What were you about to say Harry? Tell me!”
Harry didn’t answer, making a long silence creep between them. Harry had somehow found interest in his shoes, and Hermione couldn’t make up her mind on whether to say something more.
“I’m really sorry Hermione…” Harry swallowed, struggling to fight the emotions inside him. He picked up his jacket and headed up the stairs to his Dormitory.
Hermione put a hand to her forehead as she sat down. She noticed a small dairy on the floor. It must have fallen out of his jacket, Hermione thought as she picked it up. She ran her fingers across the title in gold writing - “Harry Potter”.
“Hermione! Where have you been? You missed out on the best chocolate pudding ever!” Ron burped.
“Hey.” Hermione said, placing Harry’s Diary behind her back.
“What’s that in your hand?” Ron asked curiously.
“Oh…this? Well, um it’s a book…I’m reading,” Hermione stuttered.
“My, my Hermione. That’s got to be the smallest book I’ve ever seen you read!” Seamus said in amusement.
“Yeah!” Ron said, widening his eyes in amazement. “I must be a good influence on her…”
“Yeah…well, what were you saying before? About the pudding?” Hermione said putting the diary into her pocket.
“Yeah…well I would’ve saved you some but you know…everyone was quick at it! Before I knew it, it was already gone.”
“Everyone was quick at it? Don’t you mean you were quick at it? You ate half of it Ron!” Seamus moaned. “I didn’t get any!”
“That’s your own fault! You’re just slow. Anyway how many times do I have to say it?” Ron said exasperatedly. “I’m a growing boy!”
Hermione rolled her eyes. “It’s ok Ron…I’m not hungry anyway.”
“Are you ok Hermione? You don’t look too good.”
“Yeah, I’m fine…umm, I might just go to bed Ron. I’m a little tired…see you tomorrow ok?” Hermione said as she gave him a peck on the cheek.
“Ok. Good night then.” Ron replied.
That was too close, Hermione breathed. I wonder what’s written in it anyway. Harry’s not really the type of person to have a diary. Hermione pondered on whether she should read it or not. It was Harry’s personal diary, what right did she have to read it?
“Alright, just a peek…” Hermione said curiously as she slowly opened it to the first page.
The life of Harry Potter “the boy who lived”
Do you ever feel like breaking down?
Do you ever feel out of place?
Like somehow you just don't belong
and no one understands you
Do you ever want to runaway?
Do you lock yourself in your room?
With the radio on turned up so loud
That no one hears you screaming
No you don't know what it's like
When nothing feels all right
You don't know what it's like
To be like me…
Do you want to be somebody else?
Are you sick of feeling so left out?
Are you desperate to find something more?
Before your life is over
Are you stuck inside a world you hate?
Are you sick of everyone around,
With their big fake smiles and stupid lies
While deep inside you're bleeding?
No you don't know what it's like
When nothing feels all right
You don't know what it's like
To be like me…
To be hurt
To feel lost
To be left out in the dark
To be kicked when you're down
To feel like you've been pushed around
To be on the edge of breaking down
And no one's there to save you
No you don't know what it's like…
Welcome to my life
No one ever lied straight to your face
No one ever stabbed you in the back
You might think I'm happy, but I'm not going to be okay
Everybody always gave you what you wanted
Never had to work it was always there
You don't know what it's like…
To be hurt
To feel lost
To be left out in the dark
To be kicked when you're down
To feel like you've been pushed around
To be on the edge of breaking down
And no one's there to save you
No you don't know what it's like…
Welcome to my life
The life of Harry Potter – “the boy who just won’t die”
A tear fell onto Harry’s diary, smudging a few words. “I had no idea…” Hermione whispered as she held his diary to her heart, as if she was holding Harry himself.
The piece of text in Harry’s Diary was taken from Simple Plan’s new song “Welcome to my life”. I thought it really relates to Harry and his life, so I decided to put it in :) I rearranged some parts because I didn’t want it to be too repetitive.
I hope you guys re-read chapter 7! It’s really important that you do. The mood has definitely changed. If you haven’t re-read it, this chapter won’t really seem to fit in with the story.
“Harry! Wait up!” Ron yelled halfway across the hall. Many students’ turned to where Harry was standing.
“Err…”
“I couldn’t recognize you mate, with your hair down. You should think of getting a hair-cut…!” Ron said happily.
“Ron, be quiet! Don’t yell out my name. There’s a pack of girls who won’t leave me alone!” Harry whispered cautiously ushering Ron to a corner.
“Oh I see, that’s why your hair’s like that!” Ron laughed. “Is that why I haven’t seen you around? Where have you been hiding Harry? I haven’t seen you since the train trip. Have you seen Hermione yet--? She’s been awfully worried about you! She won’t stop bugging me about it! See, I told her you’d be okay.” He whispered.
“Ron, look I’m sorry but I have to go. I’m late for advanced potions. I’ll talk to you later, just remember Quidditch trials are scheduled in 2 days. Alright? See you then.” Harry said quickly.
“Ok, thanks mate. See ya!”
.:.The last class for the day.:.
“Sorry, sir…I had to go see Professor McGonagall about something.” Harry said as he handed over a late slip.
He quickly walked to the back of the room for a seat but was interrupted by Professor Snape again. “Mr. Potter what are you doing back there? There’s a seat for late comers at the front here.’
Harry mumbled something as he made his way to the front. Hermione didn’t say a word as he sat down beside her.
“Hem hem... Good morning class. Congratulations to all the students who worked hard to be in this class, unlike others--” Professor Snape paused and glared at Harry. “—who ‘just’ managed to scrape their way up here.”
“Today we will start with a simple drought potion. As much as I want to keep you guys to standard, there are ‘those’ in this class who are not quite capable...” Professor Snape said grumpily, eyeing Harry again.
Harry squirmed in his seat. This was only his first class in advanced potions and he was already getting picked on. One little mishap could ruin everything.
“Ok everyone form groups of two. The ingredients are written on the board, and the recipe can be found on page 4 of your textbook. Get to work,” Professor Snape snapped.
“I guess we’re…um?” Harry asked awkwardly.
“Yeah, sure…” Hermione replied.
“Ok…I’ll slice this up.”
“I’ll start on the powder then.” Hermione said adding teaspoons of powder to the cauldron.
“Mr. Potter, I believe you are slicing your prick weed incorrectly. You must slice it diagonally. Malfoy, would you kindly demonstrate to Harry how it’s done properly?” Snape said loud enough for the whole class to hear.
“Gladly…” Malfoy snickered. “I’m happy to help those who are incapable,” Malfoy instructed with his hands moving Harry’s own. There were giggles and smirks around the class.
“The wizarding world’s hero can’t even brew up a simple potion.” Pansy laughed.
“Shut up,” Hermione whispered, giving her a death glare.
Harry was burning up with anger. He felt so humiliated, but he stayed calm and focused.
“Now I believe you forgot a ‘thank you’.” Professor Snape said.
“Thank you Malfoy.” Harry said through gritted teeth.
Advance Potions seemed like forever. Professor Snape kept picking on him throughout the whole lesson, throwing questions at him here and there. If Harry was going to pass in this class, he was going to have to work even harder.
“Anyone who comes into class tomorrow with incomplete homework will be dealt with.” Snape said. “Ok, class dismissed. Harry, Hermione…stay behind.”
“What now?” Harry muttered as he packed his belongings.
“Dumbledore wants to talk to the two of you.” Professor Snape said as he handed over a small piece of paper.
“Now?” Harry asked.
“Yes Mr. Potter, right now.” Snape said exasperatedly. “The password is ‘orange huckleberry’, understood?
“Yes Professor.” They replied in unison.
“Why he couldn't look for it himself!” Harry grumbled walking into the crowded chamber that was tucked away at the back of the library.
“Well I suspect he's a very busy man. You can go Harry. I’ll look for it myself.”
Harry sighed looking around the dusty tomes. He didn't really want to leave Hermione to look for the book on her own. He had been mistreating her lately. Maybe it was jealously? Harry didn’t know, but he knew very well she hadn’t deserved any of it.
“Hey Hermione, hold up a second.” Harry said taking hold of her hand.
“Hmm?” She said awkwardly.
“Look, I’m sorry…I really am. I don’t mean to take my anger and my emotions out on you. You’re right about everything you said yesterday. I know I haven’t been myself lately, but please, could you put up with me a little longer?”
Hermione opened her mouth to argue, but instead she smiled. “It’s ok. We’ll call it a truce?”
“Yeah, truce.” Harry said shaking her hand. “So what was the book called again?”
“Venturing Between the Pasts” she replied putting her wand down and flipping through books.
Harry and Hermione had been sent by Dumbledore to look for a book he wished to have for research purposes. They had been told to look for it within a chamber located at the back of the Library. Hermione had spent most of her free time dwelling in the library, but she had never noticed an opening for this particular room before.
“Any sign of it?” she asked him getting a little disgruntled. They had been searching for a quite a long time and they still hadn’t found it. Masses of books littered the room; it just seemed impossible to find it.
“Nope.” Harry said, boredom evident in his voice “Did you check that bookcase?” he asked pointing over to a tall case in the corner of the room.
Hermione shook her head, walking over to the case pulling books from it checking the titles; these books had no references on the spine and as a result they had to pull each out in turn. Hermione reached up for the last book on the middle row and pulled it, only it didn't come off the shelf, instead it caused the case to jump away from the wall and shift to the side, revealing a door.
Harry looked at Hermione skeptically, before he slowly reached for the door handle peaking inside. It was a very small room, the size of a small storeroom, the walls were covered in books all packed neatly together. Harry groaned at the thought of having to check all of the books. Hermione walked in the room with a glance at Harry and he followed right behind her. There wasn't much space at all; just enough for them to turn around in.
“Here it is!!” Hermione said excitedly grabbing the book off the shelf “Now lets get out of here.” she said turning around back to the door to find Harry pushing all his weight against it.
“What in the world are you doing?” Hermione asked. Harry rounded on her with raised eye brows and a frown.
“It's stuck.” he said heatedly.
“What? Move let me try.”
“Fine.” Harry moved to the side as much as he could to make room. Hermione tried the handle but it wouldn't work.
“See? I told you, it's stuck. Use your wand I left mine in the tower.” Harry said taking his glasses off and pinching the bridge of his nose.
Hermione reached in her pocket for her wand only to find it wasn't there. Her face drained as she realized she had left it on the table in the other room.
“It's out there.” she said dejectedly.
“Oh, well, this is just perfect.” Harry said, running a hand through his hair.
Hermione leaned back against the books pushing her head back, her arms crossed over her chest.
“We'll just have to wait I guess, Dumbledore will come and look for us when we don't get back. What time is it?” she asked.
“Eight twenty five.” Harry spoke before cradling the back of his neck with his hands, letting out a large yawn. He took off his cloak and placed it on the ground sitting down. He looked up at Hermione who sat down next to him. There wasn’t really enough room to sit anywhere else.
“Eye-spy with my little eyes something beginning with B.” Harry said in attempt to lighten the situation.
Hermione simply laughed at him.
“Book?” She replied.
“You really are smart Hermione, how did you guess?” Harry laughed. He had the most genuine smile. Hermione hadn’t seen him smile like that in a very long time.
***
The seconds turned into minutes and the minutes into hours. Hermione sat up and held her legs to her chest, shivering. It was getting quite cold in there. Harry noticed this and immediately took his jumper off and offered it to her.
“Here, take this…”
“Harry no…”
“Come on, it’s clean. It smells nice too!” Harry smiled gently.
“Thank you.” Hermione blushed. Fortunately Harry didn’t notice this. He presumed she was slightly pink because she was cold.
To be continued…
Mwuah hahaha mwah huhahua! This chapter is a tribute to my fellow fan fiction writer from Portkey.org. Thanks for letting me use it in my story. Mahal kita! Read and review guys! Please tell me what you think!
Sorry if the chapter seems longer than usual. It wouldn’t have seemed right if I cut it off towards the end, so I left it as is.
“What's my favourite colour?” Hermione asked sleepily.
“Blue.”
“Wrong.”
“Well it used to be Blue.” he said in his defense. “What is it now?”
“Green.” she stated.
“Why?”
“I dunno.”
Harry rolled his eyes.
“What's mine?”
“Blue.”
“Wrong! Hah! It’s brown.” Harry said mockingly, but Hermione laughed uncontrollably.
“What’s so funny?”
“It’s different I guess. Brown doesn’t seem much of a ‘favourite’. You know, people usually go for primary and secondary colours. I don’t know anyone whose favourite colour is brown.”
“Well now you do.”
“Yeah…I suppose so…” her lip curved.
“Hermione, what was your childhood like?” Harry said out of the blue.
Hermione looked over to Harry tenderly; she could just make out his expression in the dim light, she knew that this was a sensitive subject.
“It was good, normal I guess. It was happy, I've lived in the same house all my life and it's a comforting place for me.”
“Do you miss your parents when you're at school?” he asked. She lowered her head before raising it again to look at him.
“Yeah I guess I do.”
“What's with all the questions” she breathed.
“Wanted to ask you something I've never asked before.” he replied shortly.
“What is your ultimate dream in life Harry?” Hermione asked seriously.
He opened and closed his mouth a few times debating on what to say. In fact, he wasn’t really sure. After a long pause he answered.
“To be loved in every respect and to love completely in return…” Hermione's eyes widened at his reply, she hadn't expected something so deep. She had assumed his answer would include something to do with Quidditch, like Ron.
“You are loved Harry…the Weasley’s, the Order, your friends…err…and your die-hard fans! Ron and I… we all love you so much.”
“Do they love me, or Harry Potter? Are people nice to me because I’m their only hope to live? Are my ‘die-hard’ fans really interested in me, or my popularity? Do people close to me, truly love me or do love me because of pity?” Harry said sadly. “I’ve always dreamed of having a family to love as much as I can, and to love me return.”
Another long-lasting silence crept upon them, before Hermione said something that surprised Harry tremendously.
“Jesus loves you Harry…so much more than you know.”
“You’re a Christian?’
“Well, not really…My pop was. He used to always tell me that Jesus loved me no matter what. That He loved me and everyone else more than anything.”
“It sounds comforting…” Harry said softly. Hermione couldn’t think of anything else to say so instead she placed her hand over his and squeezed it tightly.
“Do you love me for Harry, or Harry Potter?”
“Of course ‘for you’, we’re best friends…You know that!”
“Yeah, well…I guess it’s just nice to hear.”
“Why are we in a cupboard Harry?” she joked.
“Just because…” he shrugged.
“Fair enough.”
“What your biggest fear Hermione?”
“Hey, it's my question Harry.” she said quickly.
“No it's not; you asked why we were in a cupboard.”
“That so doesn't count!”
“Yeah it does now answer the question.”
She sighed slightly in defeat. “Honestly? I mean do you really want to know?”
“Yes”
“Losing you…” She answered without delay obviously not having to think about the answer. She looked up at Harry and noticed a perplexed expression; his emerald eyes staring into her own. “Err…and Ron and Ginny too…” She added. “My friends basically…”
“So…How about you? What's your biggest fear?” She said quickly.
“I dread closing my eyes every night. I’m afraid my whole life will be taken away from me…” Harry said looking at her intently. She was a little confused. What was Harry really on about? He kept saying he was afraid, but afraid of what? Hermione thought.
She suddenly remembered his diary. She shouldn’t have read it. It was personal, private. She had no right.
“Any one could have picked it up and read it themselves. Harry was actually lucky I found it. OK…I’ll give it back to him first thing tomorrow.” Hermione reasoned.
***
Albus Dumbledore entered the chamber in the library the next morning looking around the room expectantly, he noticed that a certain bookshelf stood away from the wall in the corner revealing a door; his eyes twinkled ever more brightly under his half-moon spectacles. He reached the door and tapped it gently with his wand.
“Alohamora” he gently pulled the door open to find Hermione Granger fast asleep in an equally slumber Harry Potter's arms.
***
“Hermione, wake up, it's eight o'clock. Hermione come on.” Harry softly nudged her. She got up wiping sleep from her eyes.
“The doors open.” she said sleepily noticing how it stood ajar.
“I know.” Harry replied with a smile “Come on.” He said helping her up. “Let’s get some breakfast.”
Hermione picked up her wand from the table as they made their way out. Harry smiled broadly as he noticed a single lemon drop sweet wrapper lying on the table next to where Hermione's wand had been. Crazy loon. He carefully placed the book Dumbledore requested of, on the table.
***
“There you guys are! Where have you two been?” Ron asked as Hermione and Harry approached the Gryffindor table.
“Hermione!? Remember, you promised to finish my assignment last night!” Ron said a little annoyed. “It’s due today!”
“Oh no…I’m really sorry Ron. Something came up with Professor Dumbledore.” Hermione said.
“What?” Ron glared at Hermione knowingly. “But you promised Hermione!”
“Ron, I’m sorry. Don’t worry I’ll make it up to you.”
Ron rolled his eyes.
“Dumbledore sent us to go look for a book, in the back chamber of the library. We were trapped in some sort of cupboard, and we couldn’t get out. The door was stuck.” Harry said defending Hermione. He was a little annoyed that Ron would get Hermione to do his homework for him.
“Couldn’t you guys use your wands?” Ron questioned.
“I left mine in the tower, and Hermione left hers outside.”
“So…what did you guys do?” Ron asked uncomfortably. He didn’t really like the idea of his girlfriend trapped in a cupboard with his best friend. He noticed Hermione wearing Harry’s sweater, which infuriated him.
“Nothing much, we just had a good talk.” Hermione replied.
“You only talked the whole time you guys were there?!”
“Yeah I s’pose. Anyway come on, let’s eat.” Harry said changing the subject.
“Hem, Hemm…” Professor McGonagall said tapping a spoon to her goblet. The room full of chatter and noise, died down into quiet whispers.
“I would like to announce our leaders for this year. Although, this was due to be announced at the Great Feast, we had several students absent. We will start with Head Boy and Head Girl. Please put your hands together for Mr. Michael Davies… and Miss Cho Chang.”
There were cheers, and whistles from around the Great Hall. “I knew that would happen!” Lavender said out of nowhere.
“What do you mean?” Harry asked curiously looking at her.
“All the Head Boy’s and Head Girl’s from the previous years have been couples. The second, Michael Davies name was read out; I knew it had to be Cho.”
“Maybe it’s just coincidence.” Harry replied.
“I never knew they were going out!” Hermione said a little taken aback.
“Yeah, ever since last year. When Cho and I broke up, she immediately went out with Michael.” Harry said, as if it was nothing.
“Sorry Harry…” Lavender said. “I forgot she was your ex.”
“Nah, it’s ok. I don’t really care. I thought I liked her, but when I got to know her…well…err, let’s just say she’s not my type.”
“Finally, the Gryffindor Prefects for this year are Ms. Hermione Granger…and Mr. Harry Potter!” Professor McGonagall continued.
“ME?”
“Congrats Harry!” Hermione screamed over the top of the cheering and clapping around them. “I wouldn’t have guessed…”
Everyone was cheering, and clapping except for Ron. His ears were bright red, and you could just imagine steam coming out of his ears. He couldn’t bear the thought of Harry and Hermione spending even more time together.
“Ron!”
“Yeah, congratulations Harry.” Ron forced a smile.
“Thanks Ron!”
“Isn’t this great! I can’t believe Harry’s a prefect!”
“Yeah…whatever.”
“Ron?”
Ron pulled Hermione by the arm, and led her outside the castle.
“Ron, where are we going? You’re hurting my arm!” Hermione complained.
“Who are you to complain? I’m the one with the assignment due. I’m not even close to half-way!” Ron yelled stopping in front of her.
“Why didn’t you work on it last night?”
“I was waiting for you!”
“You could have least tried doing it yourself. I can’t always do your homework or your assignments for you. I’ve got my own homework to worry about too!” Hermione said raising her voice to match his.
“Tell me, what exactly did you guys do in that cupboard?”
“So is this what it’s really about! Ron, I’m telling you the truth! Nothing happened. Harry and I just talked.”
“Oh really!? How come you’re wearing Harry’s sweater?”
“IT WAS COLD RON! Harry was kind enough to lend me his.”
“I don’t believe you…I can just see Harry--”
“NO! Don’t you dare bring Harry into this! He’s not like that.” Hermione said pulling Ron’s hand off of her arm. “After all we’ve been through! Don’t you trust me Ron…?”
“What else is anyone supposed to think? A guy with a girl, alone--”
“We’re talking about Harry here!”
“Don’t you all think Harry’s a saint? I’m sick of hearing his name! Harry this, Harry that. It’s bloody annoying me. Harry is all everyone talks about! Big deal, he survived the killing curse. So what if he has a scar! So what if he’s a prefect!!!”
“Don’t tell me you’re jealous! You’re the one who didn’t take the position seriously. Didn’t you say the other day, you didn’t care?”
“Yeah, well I didn’t care until I knew Famous Harry would replace me! He probably sucked up to Professor McGonagall---”
“You don’t know Harry at all! He’s been through so much! So much more than you could ever handle Ron! You don’t know how much Harry hates his life!”
“Since when do you know so much about Harry?”
“I listen, Ron!”
“Hermione, he’s got everything anyone could ever want!! You’re always so wrapped up about him. You’re always so worried that he might be in some sort of danger! Look, he’s perfectly fine! Don’t you think you’ve already done enough for him while he was in a coma--?”
She slapped him hard in the face. Hermione just couldn’t take Ron’s appalling attitude any longer. This wasn’t the Ron she loved, and this wasn’t the Ron she knew.
“If you think Harry is truly happy, you’ve got no clue! You don’t care about Harry one bit! You just used his coma state to get with me!”
“Hermione, wait…that’s not all true--” Ron said grabbing her arm.
“Let go of me!!” Hermione screamed. “Shut up and save it for someone who cares…We’re over!”
Oooo it was good fun writing this chapter! I really really don't like Ron!!! Hoorah! No more Hermione and Ron!!
Please tell me if you’d like the chapters longer. This one was almost 2000 words long. If not, I’ll keep it at 1300-1500 words per chapter. Thanks! I hope you liked it.
Sorry for the delay guys...Anyway, here it goes. Hope you'll like it! Please do tell if you do!
Hermione ran as fast as she could, back into the castle sobbing uncontrollably. She could feel prying eyes all around her, but she didn’t care.
“Hey! Wait up! Aren’t you Harry Potter’s best friend?” A girl asked excitingly, approaching Hermione.
“Yes, I am. Look I’m a little busy right now--” Hermione sniffed.
“OK, well can you ask him if he could meet me, and--”
“No!” Hermione said angrily, looking straight at the girl. “You people don’t know Harry at all! Just leave him alone!”
“Hermione! I thought I heard your voice…” Ron puffed. “Please just listen to me…”
“Ron, I don’t have time for this…” Hermione said heatedly, turning away.
“Hermione please!” Ron said, taking firm grip of her arm.
“Let go of me! I can’t believe I even said that I loved you!” Hermione screamed. “Ughh, if it wasn’t for Har--”
“DOES EVERYTHING HAVE TO REVOLVE AROUND HARRY?” Ron said kicking the wall angrily. “This wasn’t supposed to happen ‘Mione! We were going good…”
“Don’t call me that.” Hermione said dully.
“Tell me, what makes you so sure Harry’s not at all happy? I’m curious! He’s got everything! Why wouldn’t he be happy?”
"Everything huh? He doesn’t have a family does he!?”
“Yeah he does! The Dursley’s!”
“Do you think he was happy when he was little living in a cupboard? They worked him like a house elf, dressed him in rags, fed him scraps, and verbally abused him? Do you think he was happy being called a freak and getting beaten up by his cousin? I wouldn’t call that family Ron!"
“Why don’t you sew him up one of your stupid SPEW socks? I’m sure Harry would like one.” Ron said sarcastically.
Hermione caught a hitch, obviously hurt at this statement. She didn’t think Ron could be so insensitive. She was quite proud of her S.P.E.W. association.
“JUST LET GO OF ME! I’ll scream if you don’t go away!” Hermione said mustering all the energy she could, to get free of Ron’s firm grip of her arm.
“Fine, I might just go and pay a visit to Harry instead.” Ron said, letting go.
“Ron, leave him out of this!” Hermione pleaded following after him.
Everything seemed to be going well, but one thing Harry didn’t realize, was that holding try-outs could be so difficult. So many students wanted to join the team, but hardly any of them could actually play well. Harry couldn’t help but get a little frustrated.
“Mary Jane’s up next. So…you want to try out for batter?” Harry asked.
“Yes.” She replied.
“Ok then. Let’s see what you can do. Ready, go!” Harry instructed, blowing the whistle.
She almost missed the ball, but the end of her bat just tipped the ball in the direction of Harry’s head.
“Woah…” luckily Harry’s reflexes were fast, and he dodged the quaffle just in time.
No way, we can’t have that. Her aim is shocking, and she has no control of her swing.
“You ok Harry?” George sniggered.
“Yeah, I’m fine…” Harry said a little annoyed.
This is ridiculous.
“Ok, Daniel Notting. Position - Keeper?”
“Ahuh.”
“Ok, Ginny’s going to score a goal, and all you have to do is block it. You understand?”
“Err..Yeah.”
Daniel in his third year wasn’t half bad. He could block the quaffle pretty well. A little more training and he’d be an excellent keeper.
“Well done and good efforts everybody! It’s great to see so many of you guys trying out, but unfortunately, the positions are limited. The results will be posted in the Gryffindor common room, sometime tomorrow.” Harry announced. All the people who tried out had excitement plastered on their faces. He didn’t want to disappoint any one of them, but some just weren’t cut out for the team.
“I have no choice but to keep the remaining players from the previous years on the team. We’re definitely going to need everyone.” Harry explained. “We still have umm me, Fred, George, Ginny, Katie…err?
“Harry, he’d be a pretty fine keeper. That Daniel guy!” Fred suggested. “You should consider him! He’s way better than our ickle-ronnikins.”
“Yeah, where is he?” Harry asked. “I told him about try-outs the other day…”
“Ron needs a lot of reminding...” George laughed.
Harry rolled his eyes. “Well, lunch will start soon. I need to take care of a couple of things. If you see Ron around, tell him I’m looking for him ok? See you later.”
“Aye, Aye Captain!” Fred saluted.
***
“Hey Ron! Oh hey Hermio--” Harry smiled, but unfortunately he wasn’t greeted with the friendliest approach. Ron had punched him square in the face.
“Ouch, what was that for? Is everything ok guys?” Harry said, putting a hand to where Ron had hit him.
“Don’t give me that crap Harry. You know what’s going on!” Ron spat.
“Leave Harry out of this!”
“You stay out of it!” Ron spat, pushing her away.
“What’s going on? Enlighten me Ron.” Harry was getting a little impatient with Ron now and more so, when he pushed Hermione away. He didn’t like the way Ron had been treating Hermione lately.
“Do you seriously have to take everything that’s mine Harry? Do you always have to play the hero!?” Ron said taking his wand out. “You’ve taken nearly everything from me! Prefect, star player, Quidditch Captain…what else do you want?”
“I didn’t take anything from you. I was appointed those positions by Professor McGonagall, and Dumbledore. If you have any problems with that, why don’t you talk to them about it?” Harry replied, as calmly as he could.
“You have everything Harry! Money, fame…Why did you have to take Hermione as well?” Ron replied, ignoring Harry’s last statement.
“I took Hermione, away from you? What are you talking about?”
“I know what you two did in that cupboard--”
Harry brushed a hand through his hair, lifting it off from his face in frustration. He was hot and tired from Quidditch, and he wasn’t in the mood for anything at the moment.
“Oh Ron, just drop it!” Hermione said angrily.
“What do you think of me Ron? Hermione and I did nothing but talk! If you would only shut your big mouth and listen, you might understand what I’m trying to say!” Harry said, with his temper rising by the minute.
“Why on earth would Hermione break up with me, right after you guys came out of that cupboard this morning?” Ron said rolling his eyes. “I’m not that stupid you know! Something must’ve happened in there!”
Harry stared at Hermione utterly shaken. He had no idea she broke up with Ron. His stomach couldn’t help but flop with glee. Maybe something did happen between them. Maybe she found a slight interest in him. His heart was pounding happily in his chest, at the same time feeling a little sorry for Ron.
Harry’s eyes immediately widened at the sight of Ron’s wand, pointing directly at him. “Hey, hey I don’t want to fight you Ron. Just put the wand down, so nobody gets hurt…”
“So nobody gets hurt? Harry you’re the reason everyone is in danger! Voldemort is after you! Everyone’s lives are at steak because of you! It’s your fault everyone is living in fear!”
Harry’s heart sank at his words. Ron was right. He was the reason so many families had been destroyed. He was the reason so many lives had been lost. He was the reason why people lived in fear.
It’s all my fault…
“Harry that’s not true! Don’t listen to him!” Hermione reasoned.
Harry’s mind began to drift off, and his eyes were getting heavy. He could see Ron’s mouth moving, but no words were coming out. He couldn’t hear anything.
“Don’t you see Harry? You’re the bad guy…not me!” Ron cried, shoving Harry against the wall.
“RON---STOP IT!”
Hermione was screaming in the corner of Harry’s eye. She looked so sad, so upset. It pained him to see people like that.
Harry immediately realized something he had never before - Hermione was a muggle. Her parents were muggle. It’s his fault she and her family, are in even more danger from Voldemort and his followers.
“Hermione…” Harry whispered.
It’s all my fault…
There was a small crowd of students present now. A few were chanting, “Fight!”
“Come on Harry? Fight me! Show me how tough you are!” Ron yelled, causing the crowd to cheer even louder. “Expelliarmus!”
Harry was hit twice in the stomach, causing him to fall to the floor and vomit blood.
“HARRY!! Ron…stop it!” Hermione attempted to approach Harry, but Ron was too quick and pushed her away.
“He doesn’t want to fight.” Hermione cried.
“Get up and fight!” Students yelled from the side, but he wouldn’t budge. His face displayed such bleakness.
“FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT!”
“What’s all the fuss--?” Malfoy said, approaching the now even larger crowd of students. “Weasel and Potter?”
“Probly fighting over Granger,” Crabbe sniggered.
“Orico syempra!” Ron yelled,
Harry gasped, writhing in pain on the floor. His heart felt like it was going to emerge from his chest. His lungs seemed to have died out on him, and he was in desperate need of air.
“Congratulations on making Gryffindor Quidditch Captain!” Ron spat, kicking Harry for the last time.
“RON! PLEASE STOP IT!” Hermione sobbed. “Harry…”
It’s all my fault…
“What is going on here? Mr. Weasley? Get off him now!” Snape yelled, pulling Ron away. “That’s 50 points from Gryffindor! I should have Professor McGonagall deal with you in a moment.” Professor Snape said, glaring at Ron before conjuring up a stretcher, and leading Harry’s body up the Hospital Wing.
“What in the world were you thinking Mr. Weasley?” Professor McGonagall said exasperatedly.
“I don’t know…I don’t know what got into me…” Ron replied quietly. “I didn’t do anything serious! I was just defending myself!”
“Don’t give me that young man! I had a word with a few students at the scene, so there’s no point in denying it. I’m sorry; I have no choice but to ban you from any further school activities with that sort of behavior.”
“What? That’s unfair!”
“You will also be serving duty with Mr. Filch around the school, Understood?”
“Filch? This has got to be a joke! You and---”
“Mr. Weasley, that’s enough! I’ve had enough of your appalling behavior. I don’t even think that was a harsh enough punishment, but I’m not at all that heartless. I’ve already sent a letter to your parents.” Professor replied, disappointedly. She expected much more from Ron. “Dismissed.”
***
Date: 11/3/04
Harry Potter against the World
We're not gonna be just a part of the game
We're not gonna be just the victims
They're taking our dreams and they tear them apart
To everyone's the same
I've got no place to go
I've got nowhere to run.
They want to watch me fall
They think they know it all
I'm a nightmare, a disaster
That's what they'd always say
I'm a lost cause, not a hero
But I'll make it on my own
I've gotta prove them wrong
Its me against the world…
We won't let them change how we feel in our hearts
We're not gonna let them control us
We won't let them shove all the thoughts in our heads
And we'll never be like them
I've got no place to go
I've got nowhere to run
They want to watch me fall
They think they know it all
I'm a nightmare, a disaster
That's what they'd always say
I'm a lost cause, not a hero
But I'll make it on my own
I've gotta prove them wrong
Me against the world
It’s me against the world…
Now I'm sick of this waiting
So come on and take your shot
You can spit out you insults
But nothing is gonna change us
You can sit there and judge me
Say what you want to
We'll never let you win
I'm a nightmare, a disaster
That's what they'd always say
I'm a lost cause, not a hero
But I'll make it on my own…
Me against the world
I'm a nightmare, a disaster
That's what they'd always say
I'm a lost cause, not a hero
But I'll make it on my own
I'm gonna prove them wrong
They'll never bring us down
We'll never fall in line
I'll make it on my own
Me against the world
“Hey…” Lavender greeted.
“Hey,” Hermione said, wiping her eyes and placing Harry’s diary in her drawer.
“Are you ok? I heard about what happened…”
“Yeah…I can’t even believe it myself.” She replied softly.
“So…what do you plan to do?”
“I actually don’t what I’m going to do… Ron won’t leave me alone and Harry’s badly hurt in the Hospital Wing…” Hermione said inaudibly.
“Harry didn’t deserve any of this!” her lip trembled. “Why does everything have to happen to Harry?? TELL ME! He’s done nothing wrong…” Hermione cried, throwing her pillows and her books everywhere. She was so angry at Ron. She couldn’t believe what he did to Harry.
“Hermione, its ok…” Lavender assured her, as she pulled her into a hug.
“None of this is supposed to happen! We’re all supposed to be friends…”Hermione sobbed trying to get out of her embrace, but she soon gave up.
“It’s gonna be alright. Harry’s a tough one. He’ll make it through.”
“Lavender…I can’t bear to lose Harry.” She sniffed.
Thanks to Britnee for suggesting the idea for this whole chapter - (simple plan song me against the world)! I hope this isn’t melodramatic, but this is how it turned out. I hope you liked it. Please review and tell me what you think.
Sorry for the long wait guys. This chapter had so many problems! It was supposed to up last week, but it was rejected whilst I was on camp. Don’t worry I made this chapter extra longer :) Almost 3000 words long! Anyway thanks for being really patient with me! I promise you, chapter 12 will up very soon too!
.:.Long Night.:.
“How is Harry?” Dumbledore asked quietly.
“He’s resting for now.” Madame Pomfrey replied. “He wasn’t hurt badly, but the fact that he’s been neglecting his potion-tablets caused him to black-out. I’m afraid the poisons have reached the left part of his heart. If he continues to neglect them, his heart will no longer be able to take the pressure.”
“Will he still be able to cope Poppy? What do you suggest would be the best method?” Dumbledore said with anticipation.
“Yes he’ll cope. He’s a strong one, that boy. I’ve already asked Professor Snape to brew up a new set of potion tablets. As long as he continues to take them, no further damage will be done. He may also be forbidden to do anything that might pressure his heart too much.”
“I’m afraid so… ” Professor Dumbledore said calmly. “Time is running out. I believe Harry must be trained as soon as he is up and able.”
“Don’t worry. Mr. Potter should be up in a day or two.”
“That’s excellent. Thank you Poppy.” He smiled, “I presume Miss Granger is still there?”
“Yes, she won’t leave his side. She obviously cares deeply for this boy.” Madame Pomfrey replied.
“I believe she is the key to Harry’s strength…Just leave her with him for now.”
Harry began to stir. He was acutely aware of a pounding in his head and a dull ache in his chest. He slowly brought his left hand to his skull and felt the soft bandages. In a flash of memory, he saw Ron high above him kicking and punching him.
He turned his head, causing a stabbing sensation in his skull. His vision blurred and he held his eyes tightly shut for a minute before blinking several times to try to focus. Hermione was facing him, sleeping deeply.
She felt his hand tighten over hers and her eyes fluttered open. She saw beautiful green eyes watching her intently. "Harry," she whispered.
"Why you look so sad?" he asked, struggling to keep his eyes open.
“You can see me? How…you haven’t got your glasses on…”
“Haven’t I…?” He replied tiredly.
"I can’t believe Ron hurt you…" another hitch caught in her breath as her eyes filled with fresh tears. She stroked his cheek gently.
"I'll be okay," he promised as the darkness pulled him back. It was so inviting, so strong...
"Harry," she whimpered. She was relieved that he had regained consciousness, even if it had been brief. She got up carefully to go tell the others and get Madame Pomfrey to check on him.
“Miss Granger, shouldn’t you be in bed?” Professor McGonagall said approaching her.
"Harry woke up," she started, "Just for a minute. I thought he should be checked."
“Ok, I’ll inform the others, and I’ll go send for Poppy immediately.” She said promptly.
***
“Did he say anything Miss Granger?” Professor Dumbledore asked softly.
"He told me I looked sad, then said he would be okay and blacked out again," she explained.
"That's Harry for you," Remus said. "He notices someone else is hurting even when he's been through hell."
“He’s a good lad…” Hagrid replied. “Always lookin’ out for others before ‘imself!”
“Professor Lupin?” Hermione asked bewilderedly. “Hagrid!? When did you come back?” She continued excitedly. She knew how much having Hagrid and Professor Lupin back would mean to Harry. Her upside-down world was slowly tipping the right way up again.
“Hagrid! We missed you so much!” Hermione said a little emotionally. It felt so weird not having Hagrid greet them at the Hogwarts Express earlier in the year.
“I missed yer all too! You know, I had a lot o’ things to take care of…” Hagrid said happily giving her a wink.
Hermione presumed Hagrid was referring to Grawp. He had found him a special home, according to his last letter, but Hermione had a gut feeling Grawp was still close by. She also hoped he hadn’t brought another monster here at Hogwarts. Hagrid went through such a tough time last year, especially with Professor Umbridge around. Hermione was thankful she was gone for good.
“Well, Term two is coming up soon and 6th years will be having ADDA and Care Of Magical Creatures again.” Professor Lupin replied.
“You’ll be our ADDA teacher?” Hermione asked happily. She couldn’t wait to tell Harry. Professor Lupin had been the best Defense against the Dark Arts teacher they ever had.
“Yes, I believe so but I have my own reasons to coming back here at Hogwarts.” He smiled.
“Now, about Harry…did you notice anything strange about him?” Professor McGonagall asked, brushing the topic of Harry coming into consciousness back.
“What do you mean Professor?” Hermione said.
“Did he seem different? Did he do something out of the ordinary?” Professor Lupin explained.
“Come to think of it…When Harry woke up and told me I looked sad, he wasn’t wearing any glasses. I don’t know how he could’ve seen me clear enough to the see the expression on my face.” Hermione said.
“’Arry’s as blind as a bat without ‘is glasses on.” Hagrid said. “Do yer think it’s…?”
“Yes Hagrid. It’s very possible for him to be showing signs of it at this time.” Professor Dumbledore chimed in.
Signs of what? Hermione thought.
“Miss Granger, Was he aware he didn’t have his glasses on?” Professor Lupin asked excitedly.
“Yeah, I asked him how he could see me, and he just shrugged.” Hermione replied.
“Isn’t this great news Minerva? The fulfillment of the prophecy is very near…” Professor Dumbledore paced.
“I deem so...but can Harry cope? I don't want him to be pushed too far.” She replied.
"Don't worry, I'll take it step by step with Harry." Remus said assuringly.
Prophecy? Is this the one that was smashed at the Department of Ministries?
“As soon as Harry is well, we must prepare him. He’s well aware of his mission is he not?” Lupin asked worriedly.
Preparation? Mission? What’s going on now?
“Hemm, hemm…err Miss Granger, can I have a quick word with you?”
“Yes, of course.”
Professor McGonagall had ushered Hermione outside the Hospital Wing. It was obvious she didn’t want her to hear what Dumbledore, Remus and Hagrid were discussing. Hermione felt a little disappointed, but a part of her didn’t want to know what was going on anyway.
She was aware that Ron hadn’t beaten Harry up too badly, and she knew there had to be something more - even though she truly hoped there wasn’t. All she could do for Harry now was to just stay beside him.
“Now, you are aware of your classes tomorrow?” Professor McGonagall asked.
“Yes…but I was hoping to stay--” Hermione said softly,
“Madame Pomfrey has already told me about your proposal…”
“Please Professor, Harry needs me! He needs me beside him! I promised him I wouldn’t leave his side…”
“Ms. Granger I know for sure, Harry wouldn’t want to be the reason for you to be neglecting your studies. I too cannot accept for such an excellent student to be skipping classes!”
“I know Professor but…”
“Mr. Potter will be fine. You can always visit him after your classes. I can assure you Madame Pomfrey will take good care of him.”
“Professor…I don’t know-” her lip trembled,
“Look, here comes Madame Pomfrey, you can ask her about Harry’s condition yourself.” Professor McGonagall said a little exasperatedly. “Poppy…”
Professor McGonagall gave Madame Pomfrey a look of dejection.
"Is he going to be okay?" Hermione asked her hopefully, tears still brimming in her eyes. She was a little worried about what her response was going to be.
"Yes, err…he will. I imagine he'll have quite a headache when he wakes up though." Madame Pomfrey replied.
"Really? Oh thank you!" Hermione hugged her impulsively.
"Um, you're welcome," she said, returning the hug.
Professor McGonagall forced a smile, “What do you say now?”
“Okay…” Hermione said somewhat hesitantly, although she knew Professor McGonagall was right.
“Go on now, its past curfew and you need to rest.” Professor McGonagall said.
“Ok…goodnight.” Hermione said, briskly walking back to her dormitory.
***
“I don’t want to have to lie to her, but no one can know. It’s just too dangerous…I’m not willing to risk Harry’s life even more!” Professor McGonagall said.
.:.Good Morning Sunshine!.:.
Hermione couldn’t be happier, Professor Lupin, and Hagrid had returned, and most of all Harry was going to be perfectly fine. She couldn’t believe how fast the tables were turning. Everything was going well again.
Suddenly, Lavender’s voice echoed through her thoughts.
“Wow! Hey Hermione, what’s going on?” Lavender whispered seemingly impressed, as Hermione walked past her.
Lost in her thoughts, Hermione had walked into her first class without realizing it. “What do you mean?” She said sitting down, ignoring the blank stares other students were giving her.
“Well, look at you! You were so upset yesterday arvo and now you’re smiling broader than ever!!” She replied.
Hermione consciously tried to stop herself from smiling too much, but she just couldn’t help it.
“Really? Am I?”
“Tell me! What are you smiling about?”
“Well, I have great news--”
“I hope I’m not interrupting anything girls?” Professor Sprout said sarcastically.
“NO, not at all Professor--” Hermione replied quickly.
“Miss Granger, not only do you arrive late, but you neglect to bring your study materials with you!!" Professor Sprout yelled. "And now you decide to disturb the rest of the class! I surely expected a lot more from you. You haven’t forgotten you’re a prefect have you?”
“I…”
“The teacher’s pet has finally got her tongue twisted!” Malfoy sniggered, sitting near the back. Hermione noticed Ron, who was sitting beside him, laughing too. She couldn’t bear to look at him. The thought of Ron made her so angry. Hermione thought It was such a challenge for her to restrain herself from punching him in the face.
“But—Professor,” Lavender replied.
“10 points from Gryffindor! The both of you will be joining me at 8:00 tonight. I don’t want to hear another word coming from either of you. Our class is already beyond behind…”
“Shut up!” Lavender hissed at Ron. He was mimicking what Lavender had said - “But—Professor,”
“Mr. Weasley, if you don’t stop that right now, you might be joining them as well!” Professor Sprout exclaimed angrily.
Hermione had never seen Professor Sprout so angry before, and especially towards Gryffindors. She was infuriated! She guessed a lot the teachers had expected more from them now that they were in their senior years.
“Lighten up Hermione! You’ve become so moody lately…one day you’re sad, happy the next, and now you’re fuming. Even though you’re not saying anything, I can see it in your eyes…”
“Detention! Lavender? What are my parent’s going to say? I can’t believe it!” Hermione sighed angrily. She just couldn’t believe she’d get a detention, without the likes of Harry, or the twins around.
“Hey, you’re the one who didn’t bring your books and stuff with you!”
“What’s happening to me?”
“Big Deal Hermione. You wouldn’t be normal if you never got a detention! Anyway, people can’t really call you a teacher’s pet anymore!? Well, at least not in Herbology…” Lavender smiled optimistically.
“Ohhh, Lavender…”
Lavender simply laughed. “Sorry…”
“Ok, well I have to get to my next class now. I don’t want anymore detentions! See you later.” Hermione said hurriedly.
“Bye…”
.:.A good chat in detention.:.
“Hey…” Lavender smiled sitting down beside Hermione.
“You’re early…” She said contemptuously. Hermione was a little annoyed that she had to start cleaning up the filthy vials that seemed liked they hadn’t been cleaned since the Ice Age without Lavender. The worst part was the stains couldn’t be removed by magic, so she had to do it by hand.
“Sorry, the whole class was kept in and I had to stay behind. Here, come on and pass me the sponge.”
“You can start on the other ones on the bench.”
“OK thanks. Hey Hermione, lighten up! Detention isn’t too bad...” Lavender laughed.
“I know…I’m sorry. I’m just not used to teacher’s getting up me, especially Professor Sprout!”
“Hermione, don’t you see? You’ve changed an awful lot. You’re not so unbendable anymore.”
“What do you mean? I haven’t changed? I’m still the obedient, bookworm--”
Hermione shut her mouth quickly. She realized she hadn’t even read a book in long while! Obedient? That’s another word she was unfamiliar with.
“You see? You’re still the smart Hermione everyone knows, but you’re no longer the obedient, book-wormish girl you were before. Can you remember the last time you truly obeyed the rules?”
“A long time ago…”
“What about the snobbish Hermione who always said, ‘everything can be resolved in a civilize way’, civilize my arse Hermione! Besides the old Hermione would never even think about giving up her studies for someone…” Lavender argued. “Tell me Hermione, what’s going on with you and Harry? Is there something you want to tell me?”
“Lav, what are you talking about?”
“What made you break up with Ron? That night before, you didn’t come back into our Dorm, and the following Morning I saw you wearing Harry’s sweater. Seriously…”
“Nothing happened between me and Harry! In a capsule, we were trapped in a cupboard so we had to stay there for the night. It was cold, so Harry lent me his jacket!”
“That still doesn’t explain why you broke up with Ron.”
“Ron thought the same thing and decided to chuck a jealous attack. He didn’t love me enough to even trust me! He was so jealous; he started saying horrible things about Harry…it just made me so mad, so I broke up with him.”
“Oh, I see…that’s when he picked a fight with Harry.”
“Yeah,” Hermione said.
“But, you and Ron have had fights about Harry before…I don’t believe you broke up with him on that reason alone…”
“Ok…you’re right. I did have other reasons, but I’d rather keep that to myself…”
“You’re in love with Harry…you always have been.” Lavender said firmly, making Hermione cringe.
“You think I’m in love with Harry?” Hermione blushed, scrubbing on the grimy vials. “That’s crazy! He’s my best friend…”
“Hermione, why don’t you just admit it? You’re only making it harder for yourself! Seriously…”
“I really don’t know about what’s going on with my love life. I’d rather not even think about it…” Hermione said firmly, scrubbing even harder.
“Miss Granger! I know you’re eager to get out of here, but please be careful with those vials.” Professor Sprout said.
“Ok, I’ll put it simply. Do you think Harry is hot?” Lavender lowered her voice.
Hermione’s eyes widened at the question. She felt uncomfortable talking about Harry this way. She liked him, and cared deeply for him…but did she really love him?
“Ok, wrong start…we all know Harry is gorgeous.”
“Lavender…”
“I know you care a lot about Harry because he’s your best friend and all, but what you’ve been doing for him is so much more than friendship! If I didn’t know you at all, I’d think you guys were going out! You seriously gave me the frights when you said you were going out with Ron! Tell me, do you think you would’ve done the same thing with him? Would you be willing to skip school for Ron?”
“Lavender, can we not?” She whispered, wiping her cheek with the side of her arm, avoiding her soapy hands.
“Come on, just tell me the truth.”
“…” Hermione blushed,
“So…do you like Harry?”
“Of course! He’s my best friend.” She said quickly.
“I mean, what do you like about him?”
“His smile, his bravery, his heart, his determination…his kindness…?” Lavender was positive Hermione could rattle on about Harry all day.
“OK, you’re in love with him!” Lavender said, crossing her arms. “There’s no doubt about it.”
“Just because you compliment a person with pride, doesn’t mean you’re actually in love with them!”
“Hermione, your eyes immediately lit up when you talked about him. It’s so obvious…You could probably write a whole book about him!”
“…”
“Still not convinced? Ok, can you imagine a family, a future with Neville?”
“Err…no, besides he’s with Ginny.”
“Can you imagine one with Colin?”
She looked up at Lavender and raised an eyebrow at her. “No.”
“Krum?”
“No.”
“Ron?? Could you imagine a future with him, when you guys were still going out?”
“Not really…Look, I…Where is this going Lav?”
“Can you imagine a family and a future with Harry?”
Hermione’s mouth fell, and there was a long pause. She thought about it, long and hard. Many images flashed through her mind - like their wedding, their honeymoon and their kids.
Harry would be a great dad…
Their kids would be happy and they’d have rooms of their own, clothes and plenty of food. She and Harry would be there to tuck them in at night and if they have nightmares, they’d be there to comfort them. She imagined that they all had Harry’s green eyes, his bravery--and really messy hair.
Hermione looked up at Lavender in shock.
“Ok, that’s more than enough time to imagine.” Lavender rolled her eyes, flicking her soapy hands at Hermione’s face. “Earth to Hermione!!”
“Hey!” Hermione complained.
“So are you in love with him?”
***
THankS Sleekeasy for your suggestion to the plot of this chapter! Haha I know this chapter is messy, but I tried seriously...You guys probably have heaps of questions...dw all will be revealed! Please review! They mean a lot to me :)
Chapter 12, here it is. OK, I had to get the Dumbledore and Harry discussion out of the way so the story can move along nicely :) Btw, someone else comes back into the story during the end of the chapter…NO CHEATING – read all the way through no matter how boring the convers between Dumbledore and Harry is ok? :p
Dumbledore found that Harry was awake again. Madame Pomfrey was in the process of changing the dressings on his head. Minerva, looking a little concerned, was standing in the corner of the room. He waited until Poppy was finished to ask if he could speak with Harry alone, and then closed the door after the females left.
"How are you feeling, my boy?"
"Okay," Harry replied. He was still paler than normal. However, the potion he had taken earlier was helping dull the pain in his chest.
"Do you remember what happened?" Dumbledore prodded.
Harry nodded, but did not volunteer the information.
"Can you tell me about it?"
Harry stared at the ceiling above him, not wanting to make eye contact with the headmaster. "The knife…it felt like I was stabbed by it again." he answered. He really didn’t want to discuss what had happened.
"Yes, we gathered that the poison from the knife was the reason for your black-out. You had been disregarding your potion-tablets, thus making you in a vulnerable position to be attacked. Your duel with Ron caused you to have a minor heart failure.”
“I didn’t duel him…I didn’t want to fight…”
“Well, can you tell me exactly what happened? Why did he attack you in the first place?"
"I don’t know, he was jealous…” Harry said annoyed. “Why are you meddling with me?"
"Harry, sometimes it's best to deal with things sooner rather than later. If you wait, the pain can build up and be even worse," his tone was very kind.
"I'm fine," Harry reiterated. "I just have a headache and want to sleep." He actually felt much better since he had taken the medicine. But he hoped that Dumbledore would go away to let him rest, go away and stop looking at him with those damn twinkling blue eyes.
***
.:.A few hours later.:.
"Ok…let’s retrace our steps from the very beginning." Dumbledore pried. “Let’s go back to the incident earlier on in the year. What made your Uncle angry? What made him do what he did?”
Why are you bringing up this? Please, go away…
"Me," Harry answered dryly. “I seem to make a lot of people angry don’t I?”
“Why do you suppose he became violent this time?"
"Everyone has their breaking point," Harry responded, tears welling in his eyes. I will not cry. I will not cry.
"Yes, everyone does," Dumbledore agreed. He knew that Harry was talking about himself, just as much as, if not more so than he was talking about his Uncle. "Harry, did you provoke him? Do you think you deserved to be hurt like this?"
The tears Harry was fighting were winning the battle as they slipped out of the corner of his eye, and slid down his cheek onto his pillow. He swallowed the lump in his throat and remained quiet.
"Did he let you explain?" Dumbledore asked, refusing to give up and let Harry shoulder the responsibility for this.
“NO! HE DIDN’T…ok? Please, I’m tired of this…can’t you please get on with it, and just say what you’ve been dying to say?” Harry closed his eyes. Go away. Go away. Go away. He felt the older man's hand clutching his own.
“OK Harry, the fact that you had almost died because of your ignorance to the potion-tablets, makes me a little concerned.” Dumbledore said firmly, not taking his eyes off of Harry’s own.
Harry winced at this.
“Are you well aware that almost half of your heart has been infected? Were you well aware of the consequences your actions lead to?”
“YES! OK, I KNOW IT’S MY FAULT! It’s my fault I got stabbed by that thing in the first place, It’s my fault I didn’t die in the beginning, It’s my fault everyone is living in fear…IT’S ALL MY FAULT!”
“NO HARRY. You must listen carefully, and pay attention! I know you didn’t have much of a childhood, but you’re no longer a boy anymore. You’re a young adult, and you need to know how to present yourself!”
“I’m sorry…”
“That is why I came today. To give you a clear explanation of what was, and what is meant to be.”
"It's okay, I already know…" Harry mumbled. “It’s my fault, and that’s all there is to know…” He never opened his eyes. He did not want to see those blue eyes he had trusted so much, those eyes that had betrayed him by keeping the truth from him.
"Harry, what you need to understand right now, is that it is not your fault." Dumbledore said calmly, his patience still very high despite how stubborn Harry was behaving.
"I'm... oh... kay." Harry said as firmly as he could. He was fighting to keep his teeth from chattering with nerves. His felt as if every nerve in his body was on fire. He did not want to discuss this. He did not want to talk with anyone about the way his family despised who and what he was. He found himself sympathizing with the Dursley’s more and more. They did not ask for the responsibility of another baby, a wizard baby who could make things happen without any control or intent. They had to take on the expense of him when they had their own child to support. They valued normalcy and he was anything but normal. They had a perfectly nice little life until he came along and disrupted it for 15 years. What was the gripe he had anyway? They had given him the scraps of their food, the scraps of Dudley's clothes, and the scraps of their space. It was befitting. He was a scrap, a leftover, and that's what suited him.
Vernon's voice echoed in his mind, "We gave you the food off our table and a roof over your head." They had done that. What more could he expect? They did not want him. They did not love him. But they kept him alive. He had disturbed their happiness. His being there put their lives in danger, but they took care of him anyway. Yes, Vernon was perfectly within his right to be angry. Harry considered the revenge he had thought he wanted for his miserable first ten years with them. Revenge for what? He had no right to be angry, none at all.
Dumbledore watched the emotions play across Harry's face. Though he had told himself he would not pry into the boy's mind, he had caught a glimpse into his thoughts.
Harry turned his head to face Dumbledore.
“The prophecy - your destiny to stop Voldemort once and for all.”
“Why don’t you just say it’s my destiny is to kill or be killed? I was born to die. I know what it means. No one can live, without the other one dead. I can feel it, every single day. Well it’s unfair! I wasn’t supposed to be stabbed by that Ancient Knife! That wasn’t supposed to be part of my destiny right?”
“Harry, I know the Subtle Knife playing into your life, was not part of the plan, but it happened. Now you must understand what it requires of you. You must face Voldemort very soon, because as you said - you are slowly getting weaker.”
He continued. “You must undergo training, so you can learn to use your hidden power. Harry…the whole world is relying on you, even though they do not realize it.”
Why me? Why is it always me…I’ve had enough…no one understands! It’s unfair…Harry’s right fist was clenched tightly.
Harry swallowed, and tried to digest what Dumbledore was saying. He played back carefully, the prophecy through his mind.
Of course, he knew in his mind that the aged wizard was right. The problem lay in getting his heart to accept it. "What is my hidden power? How am I supposed to use it? What if I can’t? What if I fail? What will happen to everyone once I’m--" he asked heatedly.
“You must trust in your heart, and you’ll find it. Only you can harnest the power he knows not…”
This is ridicoulous…
“The hidden power I have, is it what’s happening to me now? My improved sight?” Harry asked impatiently. Why couldn’t Dumbledore just tell him straight on? Why did he have to use fancy words, fancy riddles?
“No, it’s much more than that. Let me just say, your power involves your heart. You must keep in mind the love of your parents, and your friends. You need to use that as your central strength.” Dumbledore explained.
“Hem, Hemm…It’s time for Harry to rest now Albus.” Madame Pomfrey interrupted.
“That is fine, we were just finishing up.” Dumbledore said, getting up. “Harry, have a little think about what I said today.”
"Arghh! Why does Snape have to hate me so much? What have I done to him??" Harry grumbled, flipping angrily through a Potions textbook. He found the desired page, and (still steaming with rage) he began to research the information he would need to do his assignment.
“Hey Harry,”
Stupid Snape, stupid prophecy, stupid assignment, stupid tablets…STUPID EVERYTHING!!
“Luna? Hey.” Harry said embarrassedly.
“Are you alright? I can go…”
“NO, it’s ok! Please stay. I can concentrate on this anyway…”
“Hmm…what are you up to? Shouldn’t you be resting?”
“I’m sort of finishing up my potions assignment. Snape would kill me if I don’t finish it.” Harry said conversationally.
“He’s never really liked you much has he?” Luna said sadly.
Harry laughed. “Yeah, he hasn’t.”
“What course are you planning to take? Do you really need NEWT level potions?” Luna asked, sitting down beside him.
“Yeah, I’m afraid so. I want to be--I wanted to be an auror…Anyway I’m taking Advance DDA, Advanced potions, Care of Magical Creatures, and…well…err…there’s”
Harry’s face screwed up in concentration. What were the other ones…?
Luna was laughing her head off. Did I miss something? “What’s so funny?” Harry asked, quite dumbfounded.
“Nothing.” She smiled. “By the way I have a card for you. I made it myself.”
“Wow, thanks.” Harry said gratefully. It was a hand drawn animated card, with some sort of weird creature (in a medi-witches suit) playing Quidditch. “Umm…it was real nice of you.” Harry noticed a small caption on the bottom-right corner saying, ‘Take care of yourself.’
“You’re very welcome Harry.” She smiled proudly.
“Err…Hey Luna, what’s that thing in the picture?”
“Oh, that’s a Jolux Ficks! You’ve never seen one before?”
“Oh yeah, err…that’s right…” Harry said, even though he didn’t have a clue what Luna was on about. Still, it was a cute card Harry thought.
“So…how are you feeling? Are the tablets your taking doing any good?” Luna asked.
“Well, I’ve been given a new batch now because--”
“—you had been disregarding your old ones?” Luna finished.
“Yeah, that’s right. I was given a 4 hour lecture about it this morning…” Harry sighed.
“It’s a very serious matter Harry. You can’t just go overlooking your potion-tablets. You’re actually quite lucky you didn’t have such a severe attack.” Luna said seriously.
“Yeah…” Harry swallowed. Here we go again…
“Your internal organs are in great danger if you continue to ignore your medication…”
Harry wondered why Luna knew so much about the effects of the Subtle Knife. It’s seldom known, or even heard about. Dumbledore said that less than 10% of the Wizarding world is aware of it.
“Hey, why do you know so much about it? You’ve read it—?”
“It’s how my grandmother died. She was stabbed by a Death Eater, during their raid. She took care of me, along with my dad when mum died.” Luna paused looking straight into his eyes. “It’s not something you can just learn through books Harry. You can’t find this sort of stuff in the shelves of a library…”
An odd feeling rose in Harry; and emotion quite different from the anger, and pain that had filled him earlier with Dumbledore. It was a few moments before he realized that he was feeling sorry for her.
“I’m sorry…” Harry said softly. Luna had sort of lost two parents as well. How insensitive was he? He was always acting like he was the only one who had lost parents/loved ones. He didn’t realize there were a few others out there too, feeling the same way as him.
“It’s ok,” Luna said gently.
“Can I ask you something?”
“Sure.” She said, smiling at him.
“How did your grandmother deal with it all…? How did you, and your dad--?” Harry asked curiously.
“All you need to do Harry, is learn how to accept it and ride on…” Luna said carefully. “It’s hard, but you’ll find it much easier to cope with.”
“Thanks.”
***
It wasn’t long until Hermione and Lavender had entered the Hospital Wing. They had brought in a few chocolates and cards from some of the other students in Gryffindor.
“Hey Harry!” Lavender smiled. “Wow, you look so different without your glasses!”
“Umm, thanks.” Harry took it as a compliment.
“Hey.” Harry said looking directly at Hermione, making her blush a little. She absently placed down the sweets and cards on his bedside table.
“Luna, what a surprise.” Lavender greeted sarcastically.
“Hello to you to Lavender.” Luna answered. “And Hermione,”
Hermione forced a weak smile, “Luna,”
“How long have you been here?” Lavender asked straight forwardly.
“A while now.”
“Right…” Lavender said, crossing her arms.
This is really weird… Harry, noticing the friction, invited the two to sit down.
Hey, Luna’s back into the picture :) Ha-ha, friction between the girls? Wait and find out :p Please Review!
Sorry I took ages...
“I can’t believe you?” Ginny said angrily. “How could you do something like that? Especially to Harry! What on earth were you thinking?”
“I’m busy ok?” Ron said dully, reaching for the door.
“No you don’t.” Ginny said, pointing her wand in his direction. “Loccustos!”
“Wha—UNLOCK THE DOOR NOW!” Ron yelled, turning the door knob simultaneously.
“No, I’m not finished yet.”
“Fine, I’ll do it myself. “Dormienns!”
Nothing happened. “DORMIENNS!” It was still locked. In frustration, Ron kicked the door with all the energy he could muster, and found himself face flat on the floor. Ginny had not only locked on the door, but in addition she had placed a force field on it. (In case Ron, would try to open it by other means.) Which he did, to Ginny’s advantage.
“H-how did you do that?” Ron said shakily.
“Professor Lupin taught us that the other day...” Ginny said, sitting down on Harry’s bed.
“I don’t know why the teachers trust girls to go in boy’s dormitories.” Ron muttered. “What are you doing here Gin!? Just…would you please unlock the door…”
“No, I’m not letting you off the hook that easily. You’ve got some explaining to do Ron!” Ginny crossed her arms. “Why did you attack Harry?”
“Hermione…”
“What? What’s Harry got to do with you and Hermione?”
“She broke up with me the morning after, the night she spent with Harry – alone in the library.” Ron said through gritted teeth.
“I don’t think so. Oh Ron! I can’t believe you. They didn’t do anything! They were trapped in there!”
“Well, what about Harry’s sweater??”
“How many times do you have to be told?” Ginny said impatiently. “Harry lent her his jumper!”
“Then, why would she break up with me?” Ron asked.
“Why wouldn’t she? With the way you’ve been treating her! She’s been working her butt off for you! She’s been doing your homework, on top of her own. Aren’t you ashamed of yourself Ron? All the more, you decide to chuck a jealous attack! That only showed how little you trusted her…” Ginny explained. “You don’t love her at all - you only love yourself. It was your jealousy towards Harry that really pushed Hermione to break up with you.”
“Are you done yet?” Ron said bleakly.
“What’s happening to you Ron??” Ginny said sadly, her eyes sparkling. “What you had with Hermione may be gone, but it’s no reason to pick a fight with Harry. You should at least apologize to him.”
Ron didn’t say a word; he distantly began to twitch his fingers.
“It’s Dor-meh-inns” Ginny said, unlocking the door. “Not Dormienns…”
“So what, you’re not going to need your glasses anymore?” Lavender asked.
“Well, sometimes I can see clearly without them, but at other times I can’t see too well. I guess I’ll have to keep my glasses around.” Harry shrugged.
“You’re meaning to say you’re enhanced sight goes on and off?” Hermione asked curiously. “I wonder why…?”
“Isn’t it obvious?” Luna piped in. “Harry’s experiencing some sort of evolution. You know, like Blibbering Humdingers--“
“Wha--?” said Harry, completely thrown by this unexpected piece of information.
“What are Blibbering Humdingers?!” Lavender asked,
“Well, they’re spirits of --”
“There are no such things as Blibbering Humdingers, Lavender. They don’t exist.” said Hermione tartly.
“Right,” Lavender laughed.
“Oh yes they do!”
“I’m sorry, but where’s proof of that?” snapped Hermione.
Harry swallowed nervously, at Hermione and Luna.
“There have been many eye-witness accounts! I’ve seen one myself! That’s more than enough evidence for me…Just because you’re so narrow-minded you need to have everything shoved under your nose before you--”
“Guys…” Harry started,
“Are you sure you didn’t have too many Butterbeers at the time?” Lavender scoffed, staring at Luna’s necklace of Butterbeer corks.
Luna stood up, and mumbled shakily. “I’m glad you’re ok now Harry...S-see you later.”
Before Harry could do anything, Luna had already disappeared from the Hospital Wing.
“Wait…” Harry moved to his side, in attempt to get up from his bed, but to no avail.
“Harry, are you ok?” Hermione asked worriedly. She saw that Harry could not move his legs at all.
“I’m fine!” Harry answered. “Why’d you guys do that?”
“Do what?” Lavender said, raising an eyebrow at him. “Ok, maybe I was a little hard on her, but Hermione was just telling the truth! Luna talks nonsense.”
“Harry, you shouldn’t believe anything she says. She only believes in things as long as there’s no proof at all.” Hermione said gently.
“What do you mean by proof? A piece of paper with words written on it?” said Harry. “She believes in me, and all the proof I’ve ever had is my own word for it…”
“Harry I didn’t mean…” started Hermione.
“I’m a little tired now, can you please leave?” Harry said, not looking at either of them. “Thanks for visiting.”
***
“I have to what?” Harry asked,
“You need to see Professor McGonagall now.” Madame Pomfrey insisted.
“But—classes are on, and how can I get there, I won’t be able to walk just yet…you said you didn’t know when I could--”
“Don’t worry, I have something for you.” said Madame Pomfrey, pulling out something from the storage room.
***
Harry wheeled himself to the base of the staircase. He found himself with a dilemma. He was sure that he could not walk up the stairs on his own since he was apt to get dizzy. He didn't want to go into the classroom via the aid of his wheelchair because he realized he would look pathetic and sickly. So, he sat at the bottom of the stairs, trying to decide which was worse, waiting for Filch to take him back upstairs into Professor McGonagall’s office, or going into her classroom and being stared at by other students.
The decision was made for him.
"Harry! What are you waiting for? You’re supposed to see Professor McGonagall now! Come on, it’ll be too much trouble getting you upstairs. Why don’t we just go to her class, I’m sure she wouldn’t mind…she of course was the one who wanted to see you in the first place--” Madame Pomfrey exclaimed as she went behind him.
Drat. The last thing he needed was to be helped to McGonagall’s class while looking pathetic and sickly.
“NO---“ Harry interrupted. If he had no choice but to go into her class, he may as well wheel himself there. “I can do it myself! I'm okay," he argued, realizing how completely ineffective and unbelievable that statement was, all things considered.
“Oh, come on enough of that. The sooner you get there, the sooner we can get you back in the Hospital Wing.”
Harry inhaled, putting on a brave face as Madame Pomfrey pushed him into the classroom.
Please don’t let it be the 6th years, don’t let it be the 6th years….
A bit of emotional stuff here and there!
And, there it came: an enormous burst of sympathy radiating from Hermione, Lavender, Neville, Parvati, Seamus, Padma and Professor McGonagall herself. Everyone was exclaiming his name as if they had not seen him in a very long time. McGonagall was feeling his forehead one second and taking his pulse the next.
Harry saw that Hermione was almost in tears again. Ron on the other hand was sitting in a corner, looking very interested in his notebook.
“Poor Potty in a wheelie chair…” Malfoy sniggered beside Ron.
“Just shut up will you!” Ron whispered.
“Whose side are you really on?” Malfoy spat.
“No one’s.”
"Hemm, Hemm I insist that you all back away from Mr. Potter," Madame Pomfrey snapped. Unfortunately, no one did so.
“Excuse me Harry; I’ll be with you in a moment.” Professor McGonagall replied, ushering Madame Pomfrey outside the classroom.
"I... you... he....I’m sorry about before…I…" Hermione sobbed. Her feelings were close to the surface and it was impossible to surpress them.
"It's okay," he told her. “Forget it…”
“How are you feeling Harry?” Parvati asked. “Did you get my card?”
“Yeah, thanks.” Harry replied.
“What about the bag of treats I got you?” Seamus said wishfully. “You like ‘em?”
“Yeah, I did thanks…” Harry said uncomfortably.
"Harry why are you in this chair?" Neville asked eyeing Harry’s wheelchair curiously.
Hermione’s mind was now whirring with notions of what the wheelchair could mean, wondering if he had some kind of spinal or nerve damage. Her heart broke at the idea that he might not be able to fly on his broom and play Quidditch.
"Oh, I, um, I get a little dizzy when I stand up. It's no big deal. It will go away." He turned to the mediwitch and pleaded with his eyes; Tell them it will go away.
"To be expected," Madame Pomfrey announced, picking up Harry's silent message.
"See, it's nothing to worry about," Harry soothed. "I just have to have time to get better."
Harry smiled at the relieved faces of his mates.
I don't want to loose you Harry. First Voldemort. Then your stupid uncle whom you're supposed to be safe with! When does it end? Hermione sobbed.
“Are you ok Hermione?” Lavender whispered.
“Yeah…I’m fine.” Hermione said absently twiddling her fingers.
Harry looked at Hermione and Lavender sincerely. He immediately forgot he was mad with them.
“Hermione…”
“OK, everyone back to your seats. Please turn to pages 324, and look at the exercises on the bottom of the page. There’s at least 15 minutes of time left, you can start on them now. The rest of the exercises will be due for homework.” Professor McGonagall instructed. “Harry, this way please.”
“Now, Mr. Potter I know you have a lot on your hands right now, so I wanted to let you know --- that I’ve appointed someone else, as Quidditch Captain --- for the time being.”
“What!? Appointed someone else? What do you mean?” Harry staggered.
“Well, as you know the Quidditch Cup is approaching and the team needs to be ready--” She explained.
“I don’t understand…but why?” Harry said heatedly.
“You surely want Gryffindor to win don’t you?”
“Yes of course!” Harry said exasperatedly. “But—I can do it still, I can cope!”
Harry was shaking all over. His heart felt like it was ripped out from his chest. Professor McGonagall was taking his only true means of happiness away from him.
“—it will be difficult with the situation you’re in at the moment. You’re legs are semi-paralyzed, you have nausea and I really don’t recommend--” Professor McGonagall reasoned.
“Please. I can cope; I promise…I can do it…” Harry pleaded. Professor McGonagall could almost see Harry as a little boy begging for his favourite toy back. It just broke her heart because she knew Quidditch was very important to Harry.
“I’m sorry Mr. Potter, I’ve already had a chat with Poppy and she says you are in no condition to play Quidditch, let alone coach the team.”
“But professor!!”
“My only advice for you know is to - take priority in your potion-tablets, it’s vital for you to have them, especially if you ever want to get out and about on your broom once more.” said Professor McGonagall sharply. “Is this understood?”
“Yes, professor.”
“Ok, you may go back to the infirmary.”
“Ok...” Harry sighed heavily.
.:.ADDA.:.
Hermione pulled out her timetable. Period 3 & 4 – ADDA. It was time for their first Advanced Defence against the Dark Arts Class. The worst part was, Harry was going to be missing out on it.
“Hey, just relax Hermione. Try not to think about Harry right now.” Lavender smiled, squeezing her hand.
“Good afternoon class!” Tonks said, waving her arm and knocking Luna's books to the floor causing a few students to laugh.
“Good afternoon Professor Tonks,” The class replied happily.
“I don’t mean to be rude or anything, b-but where’s Professor Lupin? Isn’t he our teacher for this class?” Neville asked curiously.
“Yes, well. There will be times when Professor Lupin will not be able to teach this class, so that’s when I’ll be filling in. You all very aware of his situation, so please bear with me.”
Hermione almost felt guilty thinking it, but she had enjoyed Tonks' classes even more than Lupin's. Although they were both outstanding, she really put Tonks' lessons to good use. She was especially interested in today's lesson. Tonks was introducing something new.
“Well, today we are going to move into the next N.E.W.T. skill for the Defense Against the Dark Arts…telekinesis.” She looked at the perplexed faces before her and continued.
“Even muggles are familiar with telekinesis. Most don't believe it's possible. Those who do think it's just that some muggles have the ability to use different parts of their brains than ordinary muggles. They are not entirely incorrect. Telekinesis is the magical ability to move objects with your mind. Just like your first-year `wingardium leviosa' charm, just without the wands or the words.” The class looked entirely disbelieving now.
“Professor,” Hermione began. “How are we supposed to levitate things without using wands or spells?”
“With your mind, Ms. Granger. This is a skill that anyone wishing to become an Auror must master. There will be times, in search of dark wizards and witches, where you may be unable to speak or use your wand. Without learning telekinesis you'll be rendered vulnerable; and vulnerable Aurors end up dead,” she said flatly.
Hermione immediately thought of Harry again…She almost thought it was impossible not having to think about him. If anyone could distract Hermione from school, and study…it would have to be him…
“Now the time we've spent on techniques to clear your mind, such as guided visualization and such, are vital to your success.”
Tonks continued explaining the finer points of telekinesis and its uses. The class took a bit of notes and then tried their hand at the practical application of the skill. Hermione smirked as she thought what the Hogwarts High Inquisitor would've thought of Tonks' lesson. To the passer-by it appeared as though the whole class was merely staring, catatonic, at the small pillows set on each of their tables. Umbridge would've surely sacked Tonks over this.
An intense cold swept over Harry. He felt his own breath catch in his chest; it was inside his very heart…Harry’s eyes immediately rolled up into his head. He couldn’t see. He was drowning in cold. He was being dragged downwards, the roaring growing louder…
Follow me…follow my voice!
Where? How? Who are you? Harry cried.
Harry was slowly falling out of his chair…
“Harry! Harry! Are you alright?”
Someone was tapping his face, and pulling him back up.
“W-what?”
Hermione’s lip trembled at the sight of him looking very pale in his wheelchair.
“Hey,” Hermione said shakily in the most cheerful voice she could muster. “You ok?”
She thought of bringing up the first ADDA lesson with Tonks today, but maybe now wasn’t such a good time.
He was panting.
Hermione’s eyes were beginning to glisten again, and her heart was throbbing mad.
“Hi.” he whispered hoarsely, wiping sweat of his forehead. “Yeah, I’m fine now…what’s that?” Harry said, changing the subject to the small parcel in Hermione’s hand.
“I’ve got a—well, your, err I found…this ages ago—umm…” Hermione muttered as she passed him a small package, carefully wrapped in brown paper.
Harry coughed.“What is it?” Harry tried to say clearly, but the croakiness in his voice was still evident.
“Just open it…” Hermione bit her lip, still shaking, trying her best to control her tears from falling.
Harry carefully slid his finger under the flaps of taped down edges, and pulled it out.
Harry Potter was written in gold script.
It was his journal…
“Where did you get this??” Harry asked a little too quickly.
“Well…I found it in the common room, I didn’t mean to read it. I just read a few pages at the beginning, look I’m really sorry but I figured I should give it back to you. I know it’s personal, but I yeah, I couldn’t help it so I read it, and I—I…”
“It’s ok.” Harry croaked.
“Huh?” Hermione said, obviously not taking in what Harry had just said.
“It’s ok. I’m glad it was you who found it.” Harry’s voice was becoming quite normal now, to Hermione’s relief.
“Y-you are?”
“Yeah,” Harry said, flipping through the pages of his journal. “You’re one of the people I truly trust.”
She smiled gently, feeling quite happy Harry trusted her. She warded off her gaze to the window beside Harry’s bed. She saw some students from Hufflepuff training on the Quidditch grounds.
“The Quidditch Cup is coming up soon, you must be so excited Harry.” Hermione grinned, turning towards Harry again.
“Not really.”
“What do you mean?”
“I won’t be playing…” Harry swallowed shakily. “McGonagall won’t let me play.”
“Really?” Hermione said, obviously not surprised at this. “Well, at least you can get out there and train the team the best you can. I found a few books in the library that might help you with a few tactics, and---”
Hermione noticed Harry had turned awfully quiet now.
“What’s wrong?”
“I won’t be coaching the team either. There’s been a replacement elected.” said Harry quietly. “I can’t play, or coach like this!”
“I’M IN A BLOODY WHEELCHAIR Hermione!”
Hermione bit her lip. She could see the pain reflecting in his emerald eyes.
“The one true means of my happiness has been taken away from me just like that! The minute I get something, it disappears just as quickly.” Harry swallowed. “It’s so unfair Hermione!! Can’t I keep anything for myself? Is that too selfish for the likes of me? I’m stuck with fame, and fortune…nothing more…”
“I—I’m sorry…”
Hermione wasn’t sure who started to move first. All she knew was, they were getting closer to each other. Her heart was pounding. What was she doing?
Harry, this is Hermione. Reality Check, please! He could feel her breath beginning to mingle with his own…
The door immediately opened.
The shock seemed to snap both Harry and Hermione back to reality, and they quickly separated. Hermione was obviously clamoring for anything to look at other than Harry.
Ginny and Ron, along with Madame Pomfrey were standing at the door staring vacantly at the flushed faces of Harry and Hermione.
Ok, there it is. Sorry It took a while, I was sort of waiting on someone but nevermind that…anywho it’s there, and it’s longer! YAY! Almost 2000 words so you guys should be happy! I tried putting in classes and everything, but I don’t really think it’s working.. :( hopefully I can put in a duel in one time, maybe even a trip to Hogsmeade or something.
Chapter 15: <--Boulevard Of Broken Dreams-->
[View Online] [Printer Friendly Version of This Chapter]
[View Online] [Printer Friendly Version of This Chapter]
Chapter 15
Harry, this is Hermione. Reality Check, please! He could feel her breath beginning to mingle with his own…
The door immediately opened.
The shock seemed to snap both Harry and Hermione back to reality, and they quickly separated. Hermione was obviously clamoring for anything to look at other than Harry.
Ginny and Ron, along with Madame Pomfrey were standing at the door staring vacantly at the flushed faces of Harry and Hermione.
~~~~
“Ron, wait! Where are you going?” Ginny yelled.
“Anywhere but here! I can’t even believe I came…” said Ron angrily.
Hermione took a quick glimpse at Harry, coincidentally the same time Harry decided to take a look at her. Their eyes locked for a moment, and they looked away just as quickly.
“RON!” Harry yelled, wheeling himself outside the Hospital Wing.
“I’ve wasted enough time here.” He replied, walking on ahead, resisting the temptation to turn around.
“Ron, please. Let’s talk, and get this all over with.” Harry pleaded.
“I can’t believe it. You just don’t get it do you Harry!” Ron cried furiously, turning to face Harry against his will.
“Get what? I really don’t know Ron…”
Ron clenched his fists, but relaxed them just as Hermione walked out. “I’m out of here…”
“Ron…” Ginny sighed, pulling the sleeve of his arm.
“Let go of me Gin…” And with that, Ron disappeared into the long dark halls of Hogwarts.
“I umm, it’s late. I should go.” Hermione said rather awkwardly. “Err…see you…guys, yeah.”
“Yeah…ok. I might go too…see you Harry.”
“…”
.:.Gryffindor Vs. Ravenclaw.:.
Harry didn’t think he could bear to watch the Quidditch match with HufflePuff. It just pained him to see his team, his friends play in the field where all the excitement was – whilst he was in the grand stand, stuck in a wheelchair. Would he ever be allowed to play Quidditch again? Professor McGonagall and Dumbledore seemed to think it was best if he concentrated on the bigger task at hand. Defeating Voldemort.
“Hey.” Hermione smiled, as she sat down beside Harry.
Harry forced a smile in return, but Hermione saw that it immediately dropped when he turned to face the field again.
“Weasley, Davies, shake hands!” Madam Hooch said briskly,
Harry’s gaze immediately averted to where Madam Hooch was standing.
“Ron…?”
“Mount your brooms…on my whistle…three – two – one –“
Ron kicked off into the air; soared around the stadium. He began squinting for the snitch, listening all the while to the commentary, which was being provided by Lee Jordan.
“They’re off. The big excitement today is Gryffindor’s new seeker, and Quidditch Captain – Ronald Weasley. Due to former Quidditch Captain, and seekers’ injury, Harry Potter is unable to play.”
Harry sank in his chair, avoiding to peering eyes surrounding him.
“OK, Katie Bell of Gryffindor is now heading for goal…”
He wheeled himself around, and out of the stadium. He just couldn’t stand it all…
Harry sat alone near the lake, flipping through the pages of his journal. It had been awhile since he had written in it, seeing as Hermione had had it for a while. He tapped his fingers on the book, before picking up a pen.
I walk a lonely road, the only one that I have ever known
Don't know where it goes, But it's home to me and I walk alone
I walk this empty street, On the Boulevard of broken dreams
Where the city sleeps, And I'm the only one and I walk alone
I walk alone, I walk alone.
My shadow's the only one that walks beside me
My shallow hearts the only thing that's beating
Sometimes I wish someone out there will find me
Till then I walk alone
I’m walking down the line that divides me somewhere in my mind
On the border-line of the edge and where I walk alone
I walk this empty street, on the boulevard of broken dreams
When the city sleeps and I’m the only one and I walk alone
My shadow's the only one that walks beside me
My shallow hearts the only thing that's beating
Sometimes I wish someone out there will find me
Till then I walk alone…
“Harry…wake up.”
“Wha…?”
“Get up boy.”
Harry looked up and saw Professor Lupin standing above him.
“Remus? What are you doing here?” Harry yawned.
“I could ask you the same thing…” He said, peering down at what Harry had written.
Harry immediately closed up his book and packed up his belongings. “I had to catch up on a bit of homework.” Harry lied.
“Come with me. We’re going to train.” Professor Lupin said firmly.
“What? Now? I’m not ready, I can’t…”
“Yes you can! And you will. I can’t stand to see you lazing about, looking all pathetic and sickly. Come on.”
***
“Stand up.”
“I can’t …” Harry said worriedly.
“Just do it.”
Harry carefully held his body up, with his arms firmly gripping the arm rests of the wheelchair.
“I meant, use your legs.”
“I…”
“DO IT!”
Harry sat on the edge of his chair, and lowered his feet until they reached the floor.
“Easy…”
“I’m standing!?” Harry smiled for the first time, in a long time.
“Now, let go of the wheelchair.”
Harry raised an eyebrow at him. “Remus…I can’t…”
“Do it Harry. You need to do this.”
“Ok.” Harry let go of the wheelchair unsurely, and for about a minute or two he was standing…that was until he got a cramp in his left leg and fell to the floor. “ARGHH…IT HURTS…”
He felt his own breath catch in his chest; it was inside his very heart… He was being dragged downwards, the roaring growing louder…
Follow me…follow my voice!
It was the same voice he had heard the day before. It was calling him. Calling him over.
”Who are you? What are you? What do you want from me?”
The key. You must find the key…
“What’s the key? How do I find it?”
Follow your heart.
“What? I don’t understand…please!”
.:.The Board.:.
“Harry is still very weak! How could you push him into doing something like that so soon?” Professor McGonagall whimpered.
“Minerva, I was only trying--” Professor Lupin excused.
“—to make things worse!” She finished. “You know that Harry is not yet ready!”
“Look, I just couldn’t stand seeing him lazing about all day. He needs to train!” He argued.
“Lazing about? Do you really think that Mr. Potter likes being in that wheelchair? Do you think he likes---“
“Enough, Minerva.” Professor Dumbledore interrupted. “It was my fault for pushing both Remus, and Harry into training so soon. But I have no regrets. Harry needed that little push…”
“Albus, please…”
“I’m sorry, but it pains me too to see him like he is. He needs to find the key to his power much sooner than we ever predicted…”
***
''Harry,'' she whispered gently, brushing up behind him. He could feel the fabric of her robes mingle with that of his own, and he suddenly felt a familiar warmth course through his cold body.
''Harry, are you going to come inside? It's getting late.''
''How did you find me,'' he finally spoke, his eyes gazing toward the Quidditch field many meters away. His head fell against his chest, as his eyes cast a look of sheer fright. He felt afraid; and he knew that the world depended solely on his conquering Voldemort - even if they hadn't yet realized this. ''I didn't tell anyone where I was going.''
''Luna told me…'' Hermione's countenance changed, and her brows furrowed bewilderingly. ''What are you doing out here? It's winter and there's snow on the ground - you're bound to catch a cold, and Madam Pomphrey's office is full of Hufflepuff's, already,'' she sniggered softly at her own joke, silencing herself, as Harry remained quiet.
''No matter…the hospital wing is my home.”
Hermione shook her head in disbelief. She couldn’t believe she had forgotten Harry had been staying there…
“I felt that I needed a breath of fresh air,'' he answered tonelessly, his back still to her. He felt ashamed. He couldn’t even get up. He was going to be stuck in that wheelchair longer than he expected. He was just a weak little boy…Why do they expect someone like him to be able to defeat Voldemort?
“You could have always opened one of the windows in the infirmary.'' Hermione suggested and decided to grasp Harry's arm in exasperation. Her grip although was gentle rather than fierce. ''Look at me,'' she demanded, forcing her tone to remain calm. ''What’s going on?''
”I don’t know, you tell me…'' he said, a bit of facetiousness engraved in his tone. He sighed, turning around. He blinked, not wanting to open up his eyes any time soon.
''Open your eyes, Harry,'' said Hermione, staring directly at his eyelids. And when he had opened his eyes, she almost gasped aloud. ''Merlin, Harry, what's going on?'' His eyes told all; he looked grave and agonized, tortured and frightened; his anxiety caging him, imprisoning him within the walls of a place where he was trapped.
''Harry,'' she almost whimpered. ''Please, talk to me,''
He heaved a sigh and closed his eyes once more, drawing in a deep breath, trying to steady his racing heartbeat. His gaze met her own; chocolate met emerald green, and they danced.
''I'm dead, Hermione,'' he said simply. ''I'm dead,''
''What . . . ? You're not dead, Harry.''
''Yes, I am,'' he blurted sharply. ''I can feel it, Hermione. Every time I wake up in the morning, I feel as though I don't belong. I can’t even get up…because I-I’m weak…I’m dead! Every time I try to move, I feel as if I'm walking toward doom. If I'm not already dead, then I might as well be.''
''Harry,'' she said, grasping his hand in hers, letting her fingers intertwine with his. ''Do you feel my fingers grazing yours?'' She lightly moved her fingers over his. ''Do you feel that?''
''I feel skin against skin, Hermione,''
''You're not dead,'' she replied. She wrapped her arms around his neck. ''Do you feel this? Wrap your arms around me, Harry,''
Hesitantly, his arms went around her shoulders. Her head leaned against his chest, and her eyes closed in comfort, her voice muffled against his robes and sweater. ''What do you feel, Harry?''
He inhaled her scent, his eyes closing involuntarily. ''I feel you hugging me,''
''But do you feel it, Harry?''
''What am I supposed to feel?'' He said a little impatiently.
''Do you feel that sensation coursing through your veins and through your nerves? That sensation you wish would never disappear?''
He concentrated on himself for a moment. He felt it . . . he felt the sensation, the feeling.
''Yes,'' he breathed, his arms embracing her firmly.
''That's what being alive feels like, Harry,'' she whispered, maneuvering her head to stare into his eyes. He looked down at her, entranced.
His head slowly drew nearer to hers, and her eyes closed in anticipation. Their lips met, softly but surely, and he felt that sensation again. Pushing her closer to his body, he placed his lips against hers, and waited for a sign.
Her tongue grazed his bottom lip, and their mouths parted for each other. Passion and lust cascaded throughout their entire bodies, as a mixture of pleasure and pain crept through.
Tears began to fall – Harry let go…
“I’m sorry…but I can’t…”Harry swallowed, his breath unsteady and sharp.
“Harry? What are you on about? Didn’t you feel it? That didn’t mean anything to you?” Hermione pleaded.
“No…” Harry said firmly, turning away.
.:.Hermione’s POV.:.
''Harry,'' I whispered almost incoherently, coming up behind him.
What’s he doing out here? It’s late…Oh no…
''Hey, umm…it's getting late, and aren’t you, well shouldn’t you err…come inside?''
He didn’t answer. Harry began to twiddle his fingers. What do you care if I’m out here? Really? He thought.
Talk to me Harry…
''How did you find me,'' he finally spoke, his eyes gazing toward the Quidditch field many meters away. His head fell against his chest, as his eyes cast a look of sheer fright. ''I didn't tell anyone where I was going.''
No, not again…he’s drawing back again…he’s hiding something…
''Luna told me…'' I replied cautiously.
''Harry, what are you doing out here? It's winter and there's snow on the ground - you're bound to catch a cold, and Madam Pomphrey's office is full of Hufflepuff's, already,'' I sniggered.
He remained silent.
Stupid, stupid me! Why now? Of all the times, why do I decide to crack a joke…?
''Hermione, you know the hospital wing is practically my home now anyway.”
I shook my head in disbelief. I couldn’t believe I had forgotten Harry had been staying there…
I’m starting to think this wasn’t such a great idea…
I’m the one who started to remain silent now.
“I needed fresh air,'' he answered tonelessly, his back still to me.
“You could have always opened one of the windows in the infirmary.'' I reached out for his arm, and held onto it gently.
''Look at me,'' I demanded, forcing myself to remain calm. ''What’s going on?''
Why did he have to be like this?
”I don’t know, you tell me…'' he said, a bit of facetiousness engraved in his tone. He sighed, turning around. He shut his eyes.
I wanted to slap him awake in the face then and there.
''Open your eyes, Harry,'' I said, staring directly at his eyelids.
When Harry had opened his eyes, I almost gasped aloud. ''Merlin, Harry, what's going on?'' His eyes told all; he looked grave and agonized, tortured and frightened; his anxiety caging him, imprisoning him within the walls of a place where he was trapped.
''Harry,'' I whimpered. ''Please, talk to me,''
Relax you idiot! Keep your emotions well away. You can’t show Harry the pathetic Hermione. I told myself.
He heaved a sigh and closed his eyes once more, drawing in a deep breath. His gaze met my own; chocolate met emerald green, and they danced.
''I'm dead, Hermione,'' he said simply. ''I'm dead,''
''What . . . ? You're not dead, Harry.'' I said shakily,
Those words seemed to shock Hermione back into reality. People die.
“NO!” I screamed in fear.
''Yes, I am,'' he blurted sharply. ''I can feel it, Hermione. Every time I wake up in the morning, I feel as though I don't belong. I can’t even get up…because I-I’m weak…I’m dead! Every time I try to move, I feel as if I'm walking toward doom. If I'm not already dead, then I might as well be.''
''Harry,'' I said, putting my hand carefully over his, letting my fingers intertwine with his. ''Do you feel my fingers grazing yours?'' I lightly moved my fingers over his. ''Do you feel that?''
Oh my gosh, his hands are so cold…
''I feel skin against skin, Hermione,''
''You're not dead,'' I told him. I wrapped my arms around his neck.
What on earth am I doing…?
''Do you feel this? Wrap your arms around me, Harry,'' I was desperate,
Slowly, his arms went around my shoulders. I leaned my head leaned against his chest, and I listened closely to his heartbeat. I closed my eyes in comfort. He. Is. Alive.
''What do you feel, Harry?''
''I feel you hugging me,''
''But do you feel it, Harry?''
''What am I supposed to feel?'' He said a little impatiently.
I bit my lip at his tone.
''Do you feel that sensation coursing through your veins and through your nerves? That sensation you wish would never disappear?'' I replied calmly.
Harry screwed up his face in concentration.
''Yes,'' he breathed, his arms embracing me firmly.
''That's what being alive feels like, Harry,'' I whispered, maneuvering my head to stare into his eyes.
His head slowly drew nearer to mine, and my eyes closed in anticipation. Is this it?
Our lips met, softly but surely. He pulled me closer, closer to his body.
My tongue grazed his bottom lip, and our mouths parted wide for each other. Passion and lust cascaded throughout our entire bodies, as a mixture of pleasure and pain crept through.
I’m crying…why am I crying?
…Harry let go.
“I’m sorry…but I can’t…”Harry swallowed, his breath unsteady and sharp.
What? This isn’t good. No…please, no it can’t be…please…I’ve waited so long…
“Harry? Didn’t you feel it? That didn’t mean anything to you?” Hermione pleaded.
“No…” Harry said firmly, turning away. “It was a mistake…just like what happened with me and Cho. I don’t really care.”
.:.Normal POV.:.
“Ok, fine.” Hermione said, sounding as composed as ever; inside however she was anything but. “Let’s forget it.”
“Forget what?” Harry asked uncertainly.
“What happened just before? Let’s forget it. Erase it from our memories. Press the large delete button in our memory bank…yeah?” Hermione said a matter-of-factly.
“Yeah, ok.” Harry became a little more uneasy, now that he was seeing glimpses of the old Hermione coming into play.
What have I done… he thought.
“Ok, well I’ll see you tomorrow then. Goodnight Harry.” She said briskly.
This is what I wanted…isn’t it? I’m better off alone anyway.
***
“You’re an idiot.” Luna sighed. “Why’d you go off and tell her that?”
“I don’t know.”
“You just put yourself into a bigger mess than you already were.” Luna slumped onto a chair beside his bed. “I thought you loved her…”
“I-I do…but you know…I can’t.”
“What?” Luna raised an eyebrow at him.
“She can’t love me. OK? She just can’t.”
“Harry, how can I help you if you don’t tell me everything?” Luna asked. “Is something or someone stopping you? Is it Ron? What…?”
“No, it’s not Ron.”
“Then why? You had your chance to tell her! It was the perfect moment…why did you have to go and ruin it? You can’t be serious it didn’t mean anything to you!”
“It can’t mean anything HERMIONE! We can’t…we’re not meant to be.” Harry yelled.
Luna remained silent. He just called me…
“Uhh…” Harry mumbled.
“You really need to get yourself together Harry.” Luna said firmly. “See you in the morning...”
Ginny noticed Hermione was looking a bit off colored at breakfast.
“Hmm, what’s up? Stay up late studying?”
Hermione bit her lip.
Yeah, that’s a good enough excuse for now.
“Yeah.” She faked a yawn.
“You’re not a very good liar you know. What’s wrong?”
“Nothing.”
“Come on, grab a muffin and we’ll go talk upstairs.”
“I’m not really that hungry…”
“Just grab one.” Ginny pushed.
***
“Luna hey,” Harry said, calling her over. “I thought you weren’t coming.” He said sarcastically.
“Breakfast, the most important meal of the day. How could I miss it.” She smiled.
“I swear, I see glimpses of Ron shining through you.”
“Maybe that’s why; we’ve become such good friends.” She said. “Oh, don’t you go telling Hermione that. She’d probably kill me after what you told her last night.”
“You’re not helping.”
“Sorry...”
“Where is she anyway? I can’t see her anywhere.” Harry asked while playing with his food.
Luna hadn’t replied. She was too busy filling her plate up she didn’t hear what Harry was saying.
“For a girl, you eat quite a lot you know.” Harry mumbled.
“What is with you and Ron?”
“Me and Ron? Same same, I’m still Loony lovegood! He doesn’t notice me and he probably hates me as much as Hermione does for hanging out with you.
“Ahh…ok.”
After a while, Harry said something that made Luna jump.
“I’m leaving…” Harry said softly.
“What?! What do you mean? Does Dumbledore know?” Luna asked. Harry’s voice had gone softer.
“Yeah, don’t worry Dumbledore knows already. In fact it was his idea for me to leave.”
“Why?” She whispered angrily.
“To train…and more importantly - to get out of this wheelchair.”
“Well, that’s great for you!” Luna smiled half-heartedly. “Oh man…once I get a true friend, they end up leaving anyway.”
“Hey, it’s not like that. I’ll be back soon. Seriously…you know me, and I’m one screwed up person. I think this is going to help me sort myself out. You said it yourself.” Harry smiled.
Luna became teary. It comforted her that Harry did actually take in some of what she says to him. “I’m so proud of you!”
Harry forced a smile.
“So when are you leaving?”
“Tomorrow…” Harry looked away.
Luna choked on her blueberry muffin, and coughed it out right across the table on to Harry’s face.
Yet again sorry for the long wait. Assesment, and homework's really taking it out on me!! Read and review please! Constructive critizism is welcome.
Harry forced a smile.
“So when are you leaving?”
“Tomorrow…” Harry looked away.
Luna choked on her blueberry muffin, and coughed it out right across the table on to Harry’s face.
There were a few smirks and laughs from the other tables, and Harry just couldn’t help but grow pink.
“Come on, let’s talk upstairs.” Harry grumbled.
***
“I’m sorry Harry, you just really surprised me!” Luna explained. “I…I, why tomorrow? Why so soon?”
It was a while before Harry answered, and Luna didn’t push him. She eagerly waited on what he would say.
“Before…” Harry mumbled, “…it’s too late.”
What the…?
Luna raised an eyebrow at his expression, but then realized, this was no joke.
“Hey Luna…by the way, I was umm, wondering if you wanted to help me pack my things--”
“Yeh sure, no problem Harry.” She smiled, holding his hand.
While Luna was helping Harry get all of his gear packed up and ready to go, she noticed a small picture frame in between some of Harry’s clothes. It was a picture of Ron, Hermione and Harry in their first year. Ron was making silly faces, (much to Luna’s pleasure), Hermione was leaning against Harry waving her hands about, and Harry was just smiling as if he didn’t have a care in the world. As if he didn’t have the whole world on his shoulders. He was just Harry, not Harry Potter.
“I wish everything was the way it was back then.” Harry said, looking over at Luna with the picture frame in her hands.
Luna didn’t know what to say, and just smiled sweetly back at him.
“I’ll leave that here…could you err, put it up on my desk?” Harry said.
Harry observed Luna Lovegood as if it was only the first time he met her; from her wacky accessories, to her small delicate face hiding beneath a wild hair do with blue streaks.
Luna had been such a good friend to Harry. She was such a good person. Harry only wished that other people would accept her the way he did. Yes, Harry did think Luna was rather strange, but after all the time he spent with her, he noticed she was no different than him.
“Umm…I think that’s everything Harry.”
“Yeah? Great. Thanks Luna.”
“You’re welcome.” Luna said. “Well, I probably should go now eh. I’ll see you early in the morning then?”
“Wait, I have something for you.” Harry called, wheeling himself over to her placing a small box in her hands.
“What’s this for?”
“For being a good friend – for listening, hearing and for understanding.”
“Wow that was deep…” Luna quickly unwrapped it, opened the box, and was completely taken aback. Inside it was a small gold pendant designed as a Blibbering Humdinger on a gold chain necklace. Harry wasn’t sure what is was, but he was assured by the lady at the shop this was what he was looking for.
“Do you have any umm, you know those spirits of fire creatures…umm, I can’t remember what it’s called…but--”Harry tried to explain to the shopkeeper.
“Blibbering Humdinger?”
“Err…actually, I’m not sure.”
“Look, I’m sorry sir, but I have other customers to attend to, and you’re kind of blocking the way in.” The lady replied exasperatedly.
Harry was indeed taking much of the entrance space with his wheelchair.
“So that Blobbery Humperdink is a spirit of fire creature?”
She raised an eyebrow, before nodding her head at him.
“Ok, I’ll take the best one you have.”
.:.FLASHBACK 2.:. (Chapter 13)
“Isn’t it obvious?” Luna piped in. “Harry’s experiencing some sort of evolution. You know, like Blibbering Humdingers--“
“Wha--?” said Harry, completely thrown by this unexpected piece of information.
“What are Blibbering Humdingers?!” Lavender asked,
“Well, they’re spirits of --”
“There are no such things as Blibbering Humdingers, Lavender. They don’t exist.” said Hermione tartly.
“Right,” Lavender laughed.
“Oh yes they do!”
Luna took it out and stared at it as the light in the room hit the gold and bounced off in several directions.
Harry looked at her nervously. Please be right. Please be right.
“OH it’s a Cosmonotique Blibbering Humdinger! This is the one that lives in the Alps of Malaysia.” Luna said excitedly.
Harry just smiled and nodded his head.
“Thank you so much Harry!” Luna said, giving him a tight embrace.
“You’re welcome.” Harry beamed.
Luna laughed. “Thanks Harry! Goodnight, sleep well then.”
Harry wasn’t quite sure why Luna was laughing, but he was rest assured she really liked his gift.
Harry was outside Hermione’s dormitory, waiting by the door. He had hesitantly lifted his hand a couple of times to knock on the door, but never had the courage to do it. Whether it was because he didn’t want to wake her up, or whether he was afraid of saying goodbye, Harry wasn’t sure. He didn’t want to do either.
***
“What’s all this Harry?” Lavender asked, pointing to all the bags and cases that were lined up in the common room.
How can I put it…
“Well, that’s all my stuff.” Harry said stupidly.
“Why’s all your stuff packed up then?” Lavender asked curiously.
“Well--”
“Harry!” Luna grinned, running up to him. “Sorry I’m late. You managed to get all your stuff down? Well, you know I sort of slept in and I ran up as fast as I could ---I’m so glad you’re still here. I was so scared you left before I got a chance to say Goodbye.” Luna said in one breath.
“You’re leaving?” Lavender widened her eyes.
“Yeah, afraid so. It’s for training and rehabilitation. Dumbledore wants me too a-s-a-p.” Harry explained.
“Have you told Hermione? Or Ginny?” Lavender prodded. “If you haven’t, I better go and wake them up!”
“NO. Please. Don’t do that. Tell them once I’m gone.”
“But Harry---”
“Please Lav...”
“Well, when are you coming back then?”
“I don’t know. Soon enough I guess.”
The following days stretched into weeks or months. Harry couldn’t determine which. It seemed like every hour lasted three times as long. He honestly had no idea how much time had truly passed. All he knew is that this felt like the darkest time he’d spent yet. So bad in fact, he almost wished he was back at the Dursley’s until the time came to return to Hogwarts.
Muhahaha! Harry’s back so soon???? Sorry it's a short chappy. Had to break it up a bit.
Turning to the large mirror in the hallway, Harry studied himself closely. He gave up trying to tame his hair as it was always a mess anyway, even if it was wet. One thing Harry did notice, was that his jaw line looked a little darker than normal. He rubbed it absently and found it to be very coarse.
Growing facial hair could really change a person’s appearance…
Harry wondered what he would look like if he had a beard, or a goatee of some sort.
”Too bad it won’t hide my scar,” He thought sourly.
Harry’s thoughts immediately traveled towards his friends.
Would they be happy to see me? Does Ron still hate me? Is Hermione doing okay? What about Luna? Is she mad at me too?
Well, I guess I’ll find out soon enough…
“Welcome back Mr. Potter. It is good to see you are up and able again!” Professor McGonagall greeted, pulling Harry’s very damp coat off. “Oh dear, you’re soaking wet…”
“Good evening Professor.” Harry nodded. “I’m okay. It’s only a bit of rain.”
“Only?” Professor McGonagall gave him a rather approaching look. Oh, before I forget, I suppose I should give this back to you. I know how much it means to you Mr. Potter.” She smiled, handing him over a small box.
Harry gave her a look of curiosity, before lifting the lid off.
It was a shiny gold badge, his shiny gold badge that read ‘Captain’.
He didn’t even have to say anything. The smile that Harry had plastered all over his face told all.
“I knew I had to give it to you the moment you arrived.” She smiled.
“Thank you.” Harry grinned back. “Wow…”
“Mr. Potter,” Professor Dumbledore nodded as he approached, and put a hand on Harry’s shoulder. “It’s good to see you are well.” Professor Dumbledore winked. “Now, about tomorrow. You’re return is to be announced at breakfast in the Great Hall. Is that quite alright with you?”
“…Yeah ok.” Harry was only half listening to what Dumbledore was saying. He was too transfixed on the thought of playing Quidditch again.
“Very well then. That’s fine. Well, we should leave you to some rest then.”
“Yeah, ok, thanks….night.”
***
Harry hadn’t even reached the half-way mark to unpacking his things. He quickly sneaked out of his room and headed downstairs hoping for a midnight snack. His stomach just wouldn’t leave him alone. He hoped Dobby would cook something up for him.
I’m sure Dobby won’t mind…We could catch up at the same time too…
When Harry had turned the corner, he knocked into someone quite forcefully. He caught a glimpse of where his glasses fell and placed them over his eyes. To his amazement Hermione with books in hand, was there with him on the floor.
He stared at her, and wished he could run away. Out of all the students at Hogwarts, why did it have to be Hermione?
“Hermione…” Harry whispered.
“Yes that’s me. Umm…do I know you?” Hermione stared at him dumbfounded.
Harry did look quite different, and his just ‘blow-dried’ hair laying flat over his head didn’t quite help either.
Harry struggled on whether to tell who he was.
“I said, ‘Do I know you?’”
“It’s me…”
A very tired looking Hermione, rubbed her eyes. “Look, if I knew who you were, why do you think I would ask you?”
“It’s me. Harry. Harry Potter.” He said uneasily, brushing a hand through his hair, unconsciously making his scar very visible.
Hermione’s eyes darted to the very familiar lightning bolt scar on Harry’s forehead. She didn’t reply, and instead looked away to hide her glistening eyes.
“Hermione--”
“…so you’re back.” Hermione replied breathing in deeply and drying her eyes, before turning to face him again. She tried her best to hide the emotions boiling up inside her, but failed miserably.
Harry noticed a tear run ever so slowly down her cheek, and wiped it off gently with his thumb.
Hermione closed her eyes, and shivered at his touch.
“Yeah…I am.” Harry noticed she was looking around him, and taking curious glances at his legs. He presumed she was searching for a wheelchair, or perhaps even a set of crutches.
“Sorry…let me help you.” Harry smiled, and held out his hand to help her up.
Hermione’s insides began to melt at the touch of his hands. For just that moment, her heart seemed to have stopped beating. What surprised Hermione even more was that Harry was hugging her.
She just stood there, dead. Not returning the embrace.
“How are things? Harry asked pulling away, trying to sound casual. He felt a little awkward that Hermione didn’t hug back.
“…Uhhh, well same old, same old.” She laughed nervously. “Nothing much has happened.
“Oh ok.”
“Err…I think I left something in my dorm…erhmm, yeah. I have to…well…” Hermione said trying to come up with a good excuse from the tip of her tongue.
“Well what?” There was a slight pause before Harry continued. “Hermione…” Harry started.
“I’m sorry, Harry…It’s complicated, I really have to, err room…” Hermione tried to explain but she couldn’t get the right words out.
“I don’t understand…” Harry said truthfully. “Hermione, wait where are you going?”
“Harry please, what do you want? It’s late and…”
Harry’s stomach couldn’t have growled any louder.
Dammit, shut up!
“Bye,”
“Hermione!”
What was that all about?
* * *
Harry stepped into the Common room only to find Hermione crying.
“Hey, what’s wrong?”
Hermione ignored him. She ran as quickly as she could, and made her way out to the girl’s lavatory.
Harry, wasn’t giving up. He followed her into the girl’s lavatory. His stomach could wait just a little longer.
“Hermione, where are you?” Harry said looking around, kicking the doors open one by one.
Suddenly moaning Myrtle had swooped her way down in front of Harry.
“Hi Harry.”
“Hey Myrtle, I’m looking for …”
“If you’re looking for Hermione she’s in that toilet.” Myrtle declared.
“Thanks Myrtle.” Harry said in relief, and he approached the toilet Myrtle had pointed to.
“Hermione, come out. What’s wrong?” Harry pleaded as he was knocking on the door.
“Go away Harry! Please just go!” Hermione shouted.
“Why? Not until you tell me what’s wrong!” Harry raised his voice to match hers.
“You want to know what’s wrong? Huh?” Hermione cried as she stepped out of the toilet. “Well, where do I start? Hmm…you left without a word, didn’t even bother saying goodbye, didn’t even bother writing a letter to say you were ‘okay’ to at least comfort you’re friends who were worried sick about you--”
“—but Hermione, I did say goodbye. Lavender and Luna were there and--”
“Exactly! Luna Lovegood!”
“What about her!?”
“The thing I don’t understand is you can tell her everything, but with me---”
“I do tell you everything!”
Hermione ignored him. “I don’t understand how you can tell a stranger your whole life story, and you can’t even share it with me, your best friend!”
“You know [i]my[/i] life story Hermione, as does everyone else. What else do I have to tell? I tell you everything!”
“You didn’t tell me you were leaving did you? Why didn’t you even bother saying goodbye at least? A formal goodbye would have been lovely!!”
“I didn’t want to wake you that’s why!”
Hermione continued to ignore him. “…and now you come back thinking everything is ok. Well it’s not!! A lot has happened. A lot has changed!”
“I asked you about what had happened, and you said it was ‘same old, same old’!”
“You just don’t get it do you?” Hermione sobbed, and stormed off.
“No, I don’t Hermione.”
“Fine, maybe she’d be better off alone.” Harry thought to himself as he walked out of the girl’s lavatory and made his way to the library.
What do you think? Good, bad? Is the story getting crap? Please review...suggestions are very welcome :) If not, I'll just go with the flow. Special thanks to KimMalfoy for being my 300th Reviewer! Woohoo :D
Harry slowly turned the pages of his textbook, not actually taking in any of what it said. He was feeling rather pained about his reunion with Hermione last night. It wasn’t like he planned, and most of all he imagined she would be happy to see him.
The following morning wasn’t any better either. Harry noticed Hermione looked quite stricken over breakfast. It made his insides scream with guilt. He knew it was his fault she was like that. He knew she hated him, but he was still oblivious as to why. Was it because he left? Was saying ‘goodbye’ that important to her? What did Hermione mean by ‘a lot has changed’?
What even made the whole situation worse was when Hermione left the Great Hall, when all the new transfer students were being welcomed and announced. It gave Harry that horrible feeling he usually had at the Dursley’s –the feeling of being unwelcome.
Harry looked around hoping to find Ron somewhere, but he was no where to be seen. He felt a little crestfallen when he couldn’t spot any familiar faces. Where was Seamus Finnegan, or Ginny or any of the other boys who were in his dorm? Neville and a few others were there, but Harry didn’t really seem to care. All the boys seated beside him could only talk about how Gryffindor was doing in Quidditch, and how they’ve been on a winning streak. It gave Harry an odd feeling, mid-way between being jealous and not actually caring.
“Harry?” Neville said, waving his hands over Harry’s face.
“Yeah?” Harry said stupidly.
“Oh nothing. Don’t worry about it. You’re probably loads tired eh?”
“Yeah.” Harry replied. It was a good enough excuse for now.
“I would be too if I had to go all through that rehabilitation! You’re legs were dead last time we saw. It must have been horrible having to go through all that exercise.”
Harry nodded his head, his mind unconsciously drifting off the conversation once again.
Defense Against the Dark Arts was the only bright spot in Harry’s timetable. Harry was hoping the lesson would clear his mind and cheer him up a little.
“Welcome back Harry. Glad to see you’re looking quite fine…hemm hem but more so that you’re up and able again.” Tonks whispered in his ear as she passed him. Harry tried to control a beaming smile without much success.
“Good morning students. Before we begin our new topic, I would like to introduce you to two new students who will be joining our class. A fair few of you weren’t present at the announcements made this morning so, this is Lena Comoros a transfer student from Eastern Asia, and we all know Harry, Mr. Potter who’s just come back from rehab.”
“Harry’s back…?” someone whispered.
“Is that really you Harry?” Seamus asked, studying a tall, dark haired man with milky skin standing before him.
Harry smiled.
“You look so different! Can hardly recognize--”
Harry was partly glad his classmates thought he changed so much. He also became quite proud of the way he did his hair this morning. He did it in a way that it would cover up his scar slightly.
“Cough, cough. Yes it’s great to have Harry back, but I’m afraid we’re n class right now. We need to get started on our new unit.” Tonks said, stepping back to the front of the class, pointing Lena and Harry to their seats. “N.E.W.T. Defense Against the Dark Arts will be a bit different than your classes in the past. Skills at this level lie more in your head than your wand,” she added fluidly.
Tonks stepped away from the desk and began walking around the room. “You people need to use your minds more effectively than….waoh!” Tonks tripped over a loose stone in the floor. As she crashed to the floor Harry suppressed a smirk and took hold of her.
She clamored back to her feet. “Err…thanks Harry.” She whispered.
“Uh...more effectively than your bodies.” She brushed a wisp of her hair out of her face and continued. “In order to do that, we are going to start working on some techniques to help you clear your mind. Also, techniques that will aid you into gaining control of your thoughts as well as your spells.” Tonks seemed to be staring at Harry.
“You may find these techniques a bit odd at first. I actually learned them from a muggle. We will be studying visualization and yoga.” There was a murmur among the students. The muggle-borns were divided between girlish excitement and eye-rolling. Everyone else looked purely confused, including Harry.
“We will do guided visualization first. Everyone please put your wands away and find a comfortable place to settle in,” Tonks said kindly. “Go on, you can go anywhere in the room. Whatever strikes your fancy,” she added. As she passed Harry she continued, “Find your happy place!” she winked at Harry and mouthed, “I always wanted to say that!”
Harry smiled broadly and settled into his chair giving some thought to his “happy place.”
“Close your eyes,” Tonks said quietly. Harry gave a glance to Hermione, who not surprisingly, had already done what the instructor told her to. He captured her face in his mind and closed his eyes with a smile.
“Harry, Harry!” He opened his eyes and realized the silly grin permeating every feature of his face. Tonks was gently shaking his shoulder. “You must’ve found it,” she said with a wry smile. Harry reddened.
He wasn’t sure how long the Defense class lasted after that. Tonks led the class through an exercise where they visualized themselves in various peaceful situations. She conjured music and sounds and dimmed the candlelight to help them clear their thoughts and relax their bodies.
***
“Hey handsome!” a girl smiled, tapping Harry on the shoulder.
Harry just stood there, staring at her. She was a very attractive girl, just slighter smaller than him. She had a small delicate face, with dark chocolate hair, and vibrant hazel eyes.
“What? Oh yeah…you probably can’t recognize me. Hmm…pity…I could recognize you from a mile away.” She said a little dejectedly.
“I’m sorry.” Harry said, becoming quite interested in his shoes.
“Hey, don’t apologize! I just wanted to make you feel bad.” She laughed.
It was a weird sort of laugh, but he liked it. It was pure.
“You’re still the sweet, sensitive person you are.”
Harry’s insides were screaming with guilt again. He felt so awkward talking to this person that seemed to know him so well, and there he was, no clue on who she was.
“It’s okay. Do you recognize this though?” She grinned, showing off her necklace.
Wait a minute. That looks like…
“That’s the Blobby Humgdigery I gave to Luna… Luna?”
She laughed uncontrollably, clutching her sides.
Harry eyed her cautiously. “Maybe not…”
“It’s...” She giggled.
“What’s so funny?”
“It’s called a Blibbering Humdinger.” She smiled. “Oh well, how you pronounced it was way cuter.”
“So wait…are you Luna or not?”
“Yeah, it’s me.” And with that she gave him the tightest embrace. “What?”
“I…you look so different.” Harry mumbled, mentally picturing how she used to look with her wacky black and blue streaks. He remembered her hair occupying most of her face, and her long signature butterbeer cap accessories.
“Yeah, but things change Harry.” She said softly. “Don’t you like it…?”
“No, not at all. I think you look great. I’m just not so used to all this change that people have been talking about out.”
She smiled gently, and held his hand, the way she used to. “Some things can never change though.”
Harry’s stayed fixed on hers.
“I’m so proud of you. No more wheels.” She smiled; her hands still in his.
***
“Hermione, hi.” Harry greeted, as he followed her.
“Hi.” She replied, walking quite briskly.
She’s talking to me. That’s definitely an improvement.
“You have a spare now?” Harry asked, staring at the easel and bag of paintbrushes she was holding.
Hermione, painting? When did she take up on that hobby?
“Yes.”
Harry remained quiet, and continued to follow her.
“I usually paint in my spares. I don’t really have work to catch up on.” She added.
“Hogwarts is peaceful. It’s one of the best places to get the most perfect views.” Harry said thoughtfully, looking out over at Hogwarts Lake.
Hermione felt the desire for a real conversation coming on. She was interested in what he said, but she remembered she was mad at him.
“Which way are you walking?” Hermione asked. It was a slightly mean trick she was setting up.
Harry looked at her sideways. Their eyes met, but Hermione looked away. He was clearly trying to gauge what the best answer would be. Honesty prevailed. “Downhill.”
Easy enough. “I’m heading uphill. I’m going to paint the interior today.” She began drifting away from him, up the hill. He was obviously unhappy. Did he discern that she’d set him up? Most boys weren’t that sensitive to rejection.
“Okay.” Harry said. “Have a good day.”
“I will.” She said breezily.
It was kind of a shame in a way, walking uphill because she’d woken today with a real lust to go paint near the lake.
Few ideas here and there from “The sisterhood of the traveling pants” by Ann Brashares. I hope you enjoyed this chapter! I know I did :) Hmm… what does Harry think? Luna > Hermione ? or Luna < Hermione ? Keep reading and find out. Oh yeah, by the way Please review! I keep getting heaps of hits, but no feedback. I don't know whether it's good or bad.
Oh my it's been awhile since I've updated! I'm so sorry! I thought no one was reading and liking my story anymore so I stopped! I didn't get the email notifications that you guys were still reviewing! I'm soo sorry. No matter, here's your story. Chapter 20 YAY!
Harry couldn’t wait until he got out into the pitch. He’d been looking forward to flying for quite a long time. As he walked into the locker rooms, he was greeted with clapping and cheering from around the room. He looked around and spotted two familiar faces - they were Ginny, and Katie. The rest, Harry presumed, were new recruits.
“Welcome back Harry!” Ginny screamed, running up to him.
“Hey sis.” He smiled, returning the embrace. Harry noticed she was only a little shorter than him, and she looked gorgeous. Ginny definitely wasn't a little girl anymore. “I missed you yesterday morning, where was everyone?”
“Oh…we were training. Since you left, McGonagall assigned for us to train every second morning.” Ginny said sadly.
“She’s far worse than Wood!” Katie exclaimed. “I’m so glad you’re back. Please don’t make us train early in the morning…! Please!”
“Okay, well I’ll see what I can do.” Harry replied. “Hold on, aren’t you guys on a winning streak?”
“We are, and that’s what’s driving her mad!” Ginny cried. “All she wants to do is train, train and train. She’s killing us…”
“I guess he just wants to secure Gryffindor’s title.” Harry replied.
“Not you too.” Katie sighed.
“Look, don’t worry about it anymore. I’ll balance our training times out.”
Katie kissed him on the cheek then and there.
“Well, we better start our training session. I want to leave the pitch earlier today. I’ve got some work I need to catch up on.” Katie added.
Harry nodded, and began talking to the group. “Good morning everyone. I’m afraid I don’t know most of you here, but Professor McGonagall tells me Gryffindor has grown greatly, so I’m looking forward to seeing how everyone plays on the field today. Bear in mind though it might be a few more training sessions before I can play like I used to.”
“Shut up Harry. You’re captain, you’re a really good player.” Ginny said as she patted him on the shoulder.
“Thanks. Alright, I’m going to split the team in two--”
Harry stopped dead in his tracks as Ron walked in the room.
Surprisingly, he smiled slightly and nodded his head at Harry.
Ron…
“Yeah, I want to split the teams in two. I’ll be the captain of one team, and I’ll get…” Harry looked over towards Katie, “And Katie will be the captain of the other.”
“Everyone positions on the field.” Harry yelled.
“Is that okay with you?” Harry asked cautiously.
“Sure, no probs Harry.”
Harry was a little surprised at how orderly Ron was behaving. He couldn’t help but feel a little suspicious of him.
Harry observed the players, and he did see that they were quite good. They were slow in getting the game started, but as they moved along, the game ran as smoothly as Harry hoped. He was glad the players didn’t depend so much on the seeker like before. The team was overflowing with strength and confidence. Harry just hoped the team’s winning streak wouldn’t get to their heads.
Harry lined up the chasers and the beaters and ran them through several dodging drills. An hour slipped by rapidly and Harry decided to leave the team, to doing their own thing while he worked on catching the snitch.
He had seen it several times, jetting around the pitch, while he toiled with the team, but now that he was looking for it particularly it seemed much harder to find. He looked up at the castle, Gryffindor tower in sight, and his thoughts floated back to Hermione. He imagined her sitting at that table, overloaded with piles and piles of books, studying her arse off. He closed his eyes and when he opened them again, he saw the familiar glint of gold, zipping around the far end of the pitch, a few feet above.
He dashed in and out of the other players, dodging the occasional bludger as he continued on. Wild screaming erupted from the far end of the pitch and he made the mistake of looking away from the snitch toward the commotion.
“Don’t get mad at me, I’m just doing my job properly. It’s not like I did it intentionally!” He heard Ginny blast from across the pitch. Harry noticed Ron holding his nose to stop the bleeding.
Luna was right. Some things don’t change.
Harry returned to relocate the snitch. He saw it glinting in the fading sunlight, directly beneath him. It was in perfect position to practice diving. He set off toward the fluttering glint of gold. This was the part he loved. He loved the wind in his hair and the adrenaline that came with it. Most of all, he loved the nimbleness of his broomstick. It did what he thought, rather than what he did. A little nudge to the left or right was enough to pull out of a deep dive, or turn it from side to side. He pressed lower to the handle and reached out for the snitch. It was only about 12ft from him now. He would do it just as he had before, grab the snitch with his left hand, leaving his stronger right arm available to invert his position and pull him out.
He felt his left hand close around the snitch. Its wings fluttered against the back of his hand. He heard the cheers of his teammates over the rush of the wind and broke into an uncontrollable smile.
I can still fly…
“Hey Harry. Training was awesome today. Thanks.” Katie smiled. “I’m soo glad you’re back. Anyway, I’ll see you around then.”
“Sure, see you.” Harry replied. He could see Ron standing near the door in the corner of his eye. Harry was worried. He was worried about what was going to happen.
Ron stared at Harry blankly, and then left the lockers.
***
.:.More DADA classes.:.
“Good morning class! It’s been 2 weeks since we started on telekinesis. I’m hoping by today’s lesson you will have achieved something!” Tonks chirped.
Tonks divided the class into pairs, and much to Harry’s liking, he was partnered up with Hermione. Pillows were layed before every pair. They sat, staring blankly, at the small pillow for several minutes. Truth be told, Harry wasn’t concentrating on the pillow. While she stared at the pillow, he was actually focusing all his attention on her.
“Remember, you must try to find a link with you partner. You need to find that channel to be able to move or stop the pillow, which ever one you decide to try.”
Neville raised his hand.
“Yes?”
“Excuse Miss, but is it possible for just one person to move it? Or can two people move it at the same time. Like a shared control or something.”
“Yes, indeed but I’m not expecting any of you to be able to do that just yet. I want you guys to be able channel.”
Harry relaxed his mind and caught glimpses of her thoughts and feelings but nothing too strong or connected. He broke into an uncontrollable smile as he saw a glimpse of Hermione’s eyes growing heavy in divination years ago.
Not so studious in that class…
“What are you grinning at?” she snipped, glaring at him.
“Nothing,” he said, forcing the smile off his face and refocusing his attention on the pillow.
“You’re not concentrating Harry, how are we supposed to learn any of this if you won’t give it its due attention? Now, you’re supposed to be hurling this pillow at me and I’m supposed to be stopping it,” she huffed in that familiar –you’ve-been-neglecting-your-homework tone of voice. Although she was entirely correct, Harry couldn’t help but feel a little put off. He knew beyond a shadow of a doubt she wasn’t any more focused than he was. Giving this thought a bit more consideration, he moved his chair to the opposite side of the table.
“What are you doing?” Hermione asked, looking around at some of the students who were peering in his direction.
“Eye contact,” Harry said nonchalantly.
“What?” she whispered, hovering her head closer to the table.
“Eye contact, I can’t look in your eyes if I’m sitting next to you,” Harry said settling into his chair.
“Harry! I can’t afford to fail this class because of your mucking around. I’m seriously going to request for another partner because---”
“Hermione relax,” he said pointing to the pillow on the stand. Hermione blushed and refocused their eyes on the task at hand. However, with Harry sitting across the table, that became increasingly more difficult. As they sat, seeming by all appearances to be simply staring at each other, Harry from time to time broke out in uncontrollable fits of sniggers. Hermione was fuming. What was Harry finding so funny? Did she have something on her face? Hermione thought her anger at him couldn’t go any further.
“Let me try.” Hermione said impatiently. She had the idea of getting the pillow to move right into his face. “I can do it.”
Nothing happened. She looked over at Harry, who was smiling goofily again.
He’s mocking me I know it…
Hermione imagined Harry in a mock imitating voice, “I can do it”, but no. Not a word came out from his mouth. She then realized that was the sort of thing Ron would do.
Harry sensed Hermione’s anger boiling again so he stopped smiling. Little did she know his concentrating was the reason for his smiling. It wasn’t until Harry tried thinking of something a bit different that he made his greatest leap forward.
“Ah!” Hermione yelped as the pillow hit her squarely in the face.
“Wonderful!” Tonks yelled from across the classroom.
“Finally…” She sighed.“Try it again Harry!” she said rushing to the table. Harry gathered his thoughts and tried again.
Smack.
The pillow soared toward Hermione’s face again. Hermione brushed the hair out of her face and stared at Harry, half in marvel at what he’d done, and half wanting to slap him for hitting her in the face with the pillow.
“Fantastic! 25 more points to Gryffindor!” Harry caught a quick smile from Neville.
“Harry, can you explain to the class how you managed to swat Ms. Granger in the face?” Tonks said excitedly.
Hermione squirmed in her seat. Harry did not miss the glare radiating from the other side of the table.
“I don’t really know,” Harry lied.
In fact, he knew exactly what he had done. He cleared his thoughts and imagined he was the pillow moving in for a peck on her cheek. He was honestly surprised it had worked. This was obviously not something he would share with the class. They can figure out their own way of moving the pillows.
Harry walked out of the classroom, quite happy of his achievement with telekinesis. His smile disappeared immediately when a not so happy Hermione cornered him.
“Hey Hermione.” He said carefully.
“Just stop it Harry. Stop following me around, stop pretending we’re still best friends because we’re not. Please, I’m pleading with you. Stop it. Just leave me alone.” She said furiously.
“Hermione, we have classes together, I can’t simply avoid you or anything like that.” Harry replied.
“We have two classes together Harry, two! Don’t you understand, I don’t want to have anything to do with you Harry.” Hermione cried, failing to keep the effectiveness of eye contact. Harry’s eyes although, didn’t budge. They remained fixed on hers. Harry could see all the pain he caused her. He didn’t realize it was so bad. Hermione wasn’t the person to hate someone.
“I’m sorry.” Harry said gently, his eyes full like hers.
***
Thanks so much to my friend for letting me use her pillow/telekinesis idea!! We can’t advertise I think, so just e-mail me if you want to read her story too! So what do you guys think? Weird? Good? Bad? I’m sorry, but it’s got to be that way with Harry and Hermione! A very very long time has passed…things change. Opinions change. Hmm…is this the end of Harry and Hermione’s friendship? Will this leave room for Luna? Please review and tell me what you think! I think I’m actually going somewhere with the plot, but If I’m steering in the wrong direction please tell me so! This story is for you guys to enjoy =)
My answer is Yesh! It is a Hermione and Harry ship :) You’ll just have to wait. I know we all love the fics that get straight to the fluff, but ah-uh not this one. This story, my story is no typically one. Okay it may be slow, but I truly think that’s how it’s supposed to be? Don’t you think? Okay enough of that, here’s chapter 21.
Harry walked out of the classroom, quite happy of his achievement with telekinesis. His smile disappeared immediately when a not so happy Hermione cornered him.
“Hey Hermione.” He said carefully.
“Just stop it Harry. Stop following me around, stop pretending we’re still best friends because we’re not. Please, I’m pleading with you. Stop it. Just leave me alone.” She said furiously.
“Hermione, we have classes together, I can’t simply avoid you or anything like that.” Harry replied.
All of a sudden, Harry’s arms and legs snapped together, and his back straightened. For a moment, he stood completely paralyzed, wobbling back and forth. Harry tried but couldn’t move, and only then did it dawn on him, that Hermione had hexed him. Unable to turn his head, Harry couldn’t avoid looking at her eyes, shiny from tears.
“We have two classes together Harry, two! Don’t you understand, I don’t want to have anything to do with you Harry.” Hermione cried, failing to keep the effectiveness of eye contact. Harry’s eyes although, didn’t budge. They remained fixed on hers. Harry could see all the pain he caused her. He didn’t realize it was so bad. Hermione wasn’t the person to hate someone. The person must have done something really serious, for her to be this mad and upset.
“I’m sorry.” Harry mumbled with great effort, his eyes full like hers.
Hermione continued sobbing, and left the room. “It should wear off in a few...”
***
Harry stood there, speechless. An hour had passed, and he could finally move his head now, but he chose not to call for help. It was his own fault as to why he was standing there, in the middle of the corridors, outside the ADDA room, hexed.
“Harry get up, come on. Harry please wake up. Harry it’s me, come on…wake up.” Luna said nervously as she tapped Harry’s foot.
Harry slowly opened his eyes, and saw blurred tall and dark figures all huddled around him. He turned his head, and his vision suddenly focused on Luna.
“Harry! Are you okay?” She asked worriedly.
“Yeah, I’m fine. What’s everyone doing here?” Harry croaked.
Abruptly, Tonks pushed and made her way through the crowd.
“What’s all the commotion here? 6th years, why are you all gathered around here? It’s time for class!” She said airily.
Her eyes widened at the sight of Harry, sitting on the floor. “What happened here? Harry, are you alright?”
“Yeah, I’m okay. There’s no fuss. I was just---” Harry stopped dead in his tracks. He couldn’t tell them that Hermione had hexed him. She’d get into so much trouble, and that would make her situation even worse. It was his fault, and now he had to deal with it.
“Enough of that Draco. Chop chop everyone back to their scheduled classes. Come on, move now! Now you Luna, take Harry to the Hospital Wing.” Tonks said.
“But Professor, I’m fine really.” Harry argued.
“Harry, you’re going to the Hospital Wing.” Tonks said firmly.
“Tell me what really happened, and then I’ll decide whether you have to go the Hospital Wing or not.” Luna snapped. “Spill it Harry…”
“Luna I’m fine. I really am. Don’t you understand? I’ve explained so many times now…Can you just leave me alone?” Harry said angrily, dumping his bag onto the common room floor. He swore he heard Hermione’s voice echo into his mind as he said those words.
Luna stared at him, not showing any sign that she was affected by what he said.
Harry looked at her innocence, and he wondered why he was mad at her. He glumly sat on the couch, and closed his eyes. He didn’t know what to do. Everything he did was wrong anyway. Harry didn’t think he needed to offer Luna an explanation. He let out a long, slow breath and imagined he was on his broom flying over the castle, hoping it would cheer him up. Everyday had been the same. Harry pondered on the day this miserable life, this nightmare would end. His thoughts later traveled onto the prophecy, Voldemort, Dumbledore, Ron and Hermione.
Luna’s probably mad at me now too…
Harry suddenly opened his eyes.
Luna was brushing his hair gently with her hands, massaging his head slightly.
“Wha-?”
“Do you feel better?”
“Yeah, a little…thanks.” Harry blushed.
“You know you can trust me Harry.”
“I know…”
***
An hour had passed, and Harry let it all out on Luna. He told her about the telekinesis lesson with Hermione, and the unfortunate event that occurred after the class.
“I guess you have to give her time Harry. It’s been 7 months Harry! 7 months since you left, and she’s obviously still hurt about what you did. You’re just going to have to wait.” Luna explained.
“Yeah, well how long do I wait? Luna, there’s hardly any time left. What if I never get a chance to explain?”
Luna nodded gently at him. Harry could see a few tears forming in her eyes.
“When she said she didn’t want anything to do with you, what did you say?” Luna swallowed.
“I didn’t object.”
“Hmm, that doesn’t explain w-why you were lying on the floor…”
“Believe it or not, Hermione hexed me and left me there. I must have fallen asleep or something.” Harry shrugged.
“Hexed you? Wow…Oh my--”
“Yeah, I know. I think I hurt her pretty bad.”
"You think? Harry, you were a jerk, a coward! Look, she’s really serious about this, I wouldn’t go anywhere near her if I were you. Who knows what else she’s willing to do to you!”
“Hey, I know Hermione. She wouldn’t do anything to harm me. It was only a simple Hex, no big deal Luna.” Harry said coldly, standing up from the couch.
“Harry, you haven’t been here at Hogwarts. Seven months Harry, that’s an awfully long time! Hermione isn’t the girl she was before. Hermione’s grown so much. She’s strong, she’s not a little harmless bookworm who spends most of her time reading and studying.”
“Hermione’s a good person Luna. She has every right to be angry at me.”
“I know she’s a good person. Look, you said it yourself. Hermione is angry with you, and if you keep pushing yourself on her, that anger is only going to grow. I suggest you forget about Hermione for now, and get things straight with Ron.”
“Ron?”
“Yes, Ronald Weasley.”
“I don’t trust him.”
“I know you don’t.” Luna snapped. “But you should Harry.”
“Are you forgetting what he did to me? Who was at fault? Wasn’t it Ron? Who was apologizing, trying to patch things up? Wasn’t it me? Okay, we can be friends and all, but it’s not, and it’s never going to be the same.”
“Harry, are you aware of what you’re saying? You sound so…why are you being so cold Harry? You don’t even know why Ron was acting that way.”
“Yes I do.”
“Partly, but you know Ron better than that. He wouldn’t go that far.” Luna said softly. “There’s a very good explanation as to why he was behaving the way he was behaving. If you would only listen--”
Harry rolled his eyes at her. “You’re still head over heels about him aren’t you?”
“Regardless if I am or not, what does it have to do with anything Harry? I’m just telling you the truth.”
“Luna? Are you okay? You’re crazy! You think that Hermione would hurt me, and Ron wouldn't. You’ve got it the wrong way around. Ron is the violent one! Hermione is harmless.” Harry said angrily.
“I’m only trying to help you Harry. Although the world may seem to revolve around you, I know, and you know it doesn’t. If you truly loved Hermione, you would have told her so, and you would have treated her right. It’s your own fault you’re in this predicament."
Harry sat there in silence, twiddling his thumbs.
"What the hell happened to the Harry that I used to know? The only person who truly appreciated me for who and what I believed in. Where’s the Harry that would always listen? I want the Harry who didn’t think I was crazy…to come back” Luna sobbed, ruining the little bit of makeup she had put on.
Harry’s insides were screaming with guilt. She was right. He was wrong.
“I’m going to class.” Luna smiled, and kissed him on the cheek, slightly grazing the side of his lips. “I hope that maybe Harry will come back soon…”
“Luna, wait!” Harry ran up to her pulling her arm, and embracing her tightly.
He was crying. No, he was weeping.
“Harry…its okay,” Luna sniffed, squeezing him as she said so. Harry may have grown stronger physically during his training with Professor Lupin, but emotionally, Harry was just a boy. A. Scared. Little. Boy.
“I’m really scared Luna. I can feel it…” Harry croaked. “Time’s running out…I-I don’t want to die…”
Harry looked around apprehensively. I can do this, I can do this, I can do this…
“Ron.” Harry greeted, taking a seat beside him.
Ron looked at him, puzzled, not saying a word.
Harry was surprised he could even hear the clock ticking in the room. He glanced around and noticed the prying eyes of everyone in the room.
People are staring, what’s the go with that?
He glared at them, almost as if he was growling too, and immediately all the heads turned back to whatever they were doing.
“Luna told me everything.” Harry said barely audibly, casually picking up the pieces from the Chess set.
Ron stared at Harry, not knowing what to do. He decided to just sit and listen.
“Ron, I know that you were bewitched by Malfoy. I know that you didn’t mean anything. I know that, you’re still and you will always be the same Ron I met when I first stepped into that compartment on Hogwarts Express.”
Ron smiled at Harry for the first time in a long time. His breathing stopped when he realized what Harry was getting at.
“I don’t believe it,” Ron whispered to himself. “I don’t believe it.”
“What?”
Ron looked up at Harry in sheer amazement.
“Harry. I did love Hermione, and I was jealous about her spending time with you--” Ron admitted.
“I know you did, and I know you didn’t mean for it to get ugly. That was Malfoy’s doing.”
“Thanks Harry. I’m really sorry about what I, well what he made me do. You know I would never do that to you. Blimey Harry, when Ginny and Professor McGonagall told me all the things I did---”
“Hey, well I do now.” Harry laughed, as if it was nothing. “How about a game of chess? I’m on spare now.” Harry said, slapping Ron on the back.
“Spare? Yeah me too. Well, Chess sounds like a plan Harry.” Ron smiled. “SO…what took you so long to come up and approach me about it all?”
“I didn’t know! No one told me.” Harry sighed.
“Blimey, not even Ginny?”
“No, not even Ginny…Maybe she was waiting on you to explain for yourself.” Harry guessed.
“Girls…” Ron muttered. “SO, are you going to tell me what happened while you were out there doing what you were doing?”
“Ron mate, where do I start?” Harry scratched his head.
Ron looked at him sincerely, before letting out a hand. “Best friends?”
“Stupid question.”
Ron widened his eyes at this.
“Best Friends? Of course you loser.”
***
Thanks for remaining faithful! I’m on holidays, so I’ve been typing away every chance I get! Hopefully a chapter update will happen every week regardless of the reviews. I would appreciate if you guys still reviewed for each chapter saying what was good or bad, and what you want me to change about it if need be! It’s all nice getting a review saying it was ‘good’, but that doesn’t let me know anything. What parts did you like, what would you like to see happen, which characters do you want to hear more from. You know things like that :) Come on! Please?
“The ministry can do nothing about it. They foolishly believe that the return of Lord Voldemort is nothing to be frightened of. They still think he is in hiding, because he is weak and frail. Harry, you and I know they are wrong. I am sure you’ve felt him growing stronger, and whilst you are strong Harry, you are slowly getting weaker. Your medical situation doesn’t help you either, but I have faith in you nevertheless. This time, Lord Voldemort is even more powerful than before, just like you are since you both have become wiser due to your past encounters with each other. He has had plenty of time in hiding, and I presume he analyzed all he’s ever done and is drawing out new plans. Unfortunately, the ministry is being foolish regarding the matter and they are not preparing for Lord Voldemort's assault as it should be.”
Dumbledore grimly shook his head. Harry couldn’t see why Dumbledore was so disappointed. There he was telling him he could do it, he could kill Voldemort, and now he was saying it would be much better to fight Lord Voldemort with the Ministry of Magic behind them, rather than fighting as the Order of the Phoenix alone.
Harry sighed and asked “Professor, what do you think will happe--”
Dumbledore looked at him and said, “We don't know. We can't worry too much about the future, Harry. We should be concerned with our time. It is wise to give the future generation a better life, but that is only possible when your own life progresses.”
“Amidst all the training I did, I still feel so small and powerless. Just knowing that the fate of the wizarding world lies in my hands makes me feel even more pressured. Just look what’s happened, and what’s happening around us. I’m sick of all the pain; I want it to end sir…” Harry said firmly. “How am I supposed to do that? I still haven’t found the key to my power. I know I have the upper hand, the secret power, but how can I succeed not knowing how to unleash it?”
“I do not know the answer Harry,” said Dumbledore. Sympathy was evident in his eyes as he spoke. “One thing that I know is that it is all here, in your heart, not your head. Magic is all about the heart overpowering the mind Harry. Believe in yourself. You cannot afford to have any doubt whatsoever, for that will be the path that will lead you to your defeat. You have to believe and fight with your heart.”
Harry wasn’t saying a word. He just simply listened intently.
“Remember Harry, no one alone can change the world. You are not small, and neither are you weak. You are amongst the strongest and the bravest people I have ever come across. You can defeat Voldemort not because the prophecy simple says so, but because you have the strength. This task would never have been appointed to you if you didn't have the strength. It was either you, or Mr. Longbottom, but it was you who was chosen.”
As he finished speaking, Dumbledore looked kindly at Harry and finally said, “Engrave this on your forehead Harry, it is all to do with heart. The first step to gaining strength is to master your thoughts and establish full control over your heart and your mind. Believe that you can do this, and I am sure you will win.”
With that, Dumbledore got up and patting Harry on the back, made his way towards the door. He put his hand on the doorknob, turned and said, “I must get going now. Time is not on our side, and I must get the rest of those Horcruxes. Remember what I told you.”
He nodded at Harry, and disappeared, leaving Harry much older than he was before the conversation.
***
“Figured out how to use that thing yet?” Harry asked. He and Ron were in the Astronomy Tower, testing out Ron’s new Telescope from his great grandfather.
“Nope,” Harry could see Ron was no longer interested in the telescope. “So anyway, what did Dumbledore want?” Ron asked excitedly.
Harry didn’t reply, and simply opened the envelope that Dumbledore had given him earlier in the meeting.
Mr. Potter,
As I will be away, Nymphadora Tonks will be your supervisor. Attached is a timetable as to when you will be tested on the different aspects of your training. Not to worry, your results will coincide with that of your ADDA mark, and many other subjects that are related. Best of luck, I have great faith in you Harry.
Yours truly,
Albus Dumbledore.
“Are you alright mate?” Ron asked worriedly.
“To be honest, no, but I soon will be.” Harry said, whilst handing Ron the letter. “I need to tell you something.”
Ron looked up from the letter. Just by the tone of Harry’s voice after returning from the meeting with Dumbledore, told him that something serious was going on, and that there was no time for fooling around.
Harry took a deep breath and started to tell him about the prophecy. Harry anxiously watched Ron’s reactions play out as he told them.
"So," he finished. "It’s either I kill Voldemort, or he’ll kill me. One way or another, that's how the war will end. One of us has to die.”
Ron was too terrified to speak.
“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you this sooner. I didn’t want you guys,” Harry took another breath “I didn’t want you to worry,”
“You can do it Harry, we all know it’s him who’s going to die.” Ron croaked. “And mate, I’m right beside you.”
“No Ron, that’s another reason why I didn’t want to share this prophecy. I don’t want to cause you guys even more trouble. Haven’t you noticed that he’s targeted all my family, and is now beginning to target the families of all my friends? I owe you and your family so much, and it wouldn’t be right for me to let you come with me. I’m going to fight alone.
”
“I know I’m a worthless person to have on the battlefield but I don’t care. I want to be there fighting beside you. I’d rather die trying than just watch you do it on your own.” Ron said boldly.
Harry shook his head, looking back at the past. He knew deep down in his heart Ron was his best mate, but he doubted. How could have he not noticed that Ron was bewitched? Ron was banned from school activities, why else would he be appointed Captain if he wasn’t innocent?
“What do you say? I’m up for another epic adventure with Harry Potter.” Ron smiled, a lot more terrified than he was letting on.
Harry didn’t notice too much, he was too overwhelmed with Ron’s loyalty as a friend he didn’t even notice someone had entered the room.
“Oh fancy meeting you two here.” Luna smiled, taking a seat beside Harry.
“Hey Luna,” Harry replied, passing her the note from Dumbledore."Just testing out Ron's new scope..."
Harry noticed she looked a little smug, but waved it off. He knew she was just pleased that he and Ron were friends again.
“What brings you here Luna?” Ron asked.
“Me? I’m always up here. I love looking at the stars.” She said rather dreamily.
Ron wasn’t too surprised. He’d never really talked to Luna before, but he knew she was into the whole Myth and Legends thing.
“Hey, maybe you can help Ron with his telescope.” Harry suggested, pointing her toward it.
“Maybe, let me finish this first.”
Luna opened the letter, and began reading it. She was feeling a little conscious of herself because she felt Ron’s eyes on her. She couldn’t resist the urge to look up, and her eyes met his.
“Uh,” Luna started, realizing why Ron was staring. “I just had herbology…umm, forgot to take off my apron.” She blushed.
Yeah, well obviously…Luna thought angrily, whilst taking it off. What a stupid thing to say! She was blushing even more.
“I thought you and Ginny had the same classes?” Ron asked curiously.
“Yeah, we do.”
“Well, Ginny would’ve just had a spare.”
‘Honestly! Mister “Ronald-the-Clueless-Wonder” Weasley goes through six years at Hogwarts, completely oblivious to anything he’s not hit over the head with. Now he’s suddenly Mr. I-know-Ginny’s-timetable! What am I going to say now?
“Well Ronald, I had to—er catch up on some work.”
“Oh ok.”
Luna was quite happy Ron finally dropped the subject and let go. She was not intending on telling neither Ron nor Harry that she was having cooking lessons with the house elves. She was quite ashamed that she couldn’t even cook scrambled eggs. Much to Luna’s appease the conversation had once again meandered back to Dumbledore’s letter again, and now they were all guessing about what kinds of tests Harry was going to be put through.
“Well, anyway. We all know Harry’s going to ace it! Right mate?” Ron smiled.
“I sure hope so.” Harry looked over at Luna to see her response, “Are you alright Luna?” Harry noticed her face all screwed up in concentration. Determination was written all over her face.
Finally she answered. “Harry. You’ll. Be. Fine.” Luna smiled, before quickly going back to the telescope - turning knobs, and pushing buttons.
“Hmm, Ron…are you sure that didn’t come with a manual?” Harry asked curiously.
“Not sure, hold on I’ll go check.” Ron mused, “I’ll be right back guys.”
***
“I'm an idiot,” she whispered to herself as she spun around and walked into Harry’s dormitory.
“Harry?” She asked carefully, before stepping inside.
Drat. He’s not here…
She turned around to leave the room but she stopped as her eyes caught a framed photograph sitting on Harry’s desk.
It was a picture that she was warmly familiar with, since she too owned a framed copy. It was a picture taken of the three of them in first year, standing in a row, smiling at the camera, Ron nudging Harry with a lop-sided grin every now and then. The Hermione in the picture was touching Harry's arm and glancing at him every so often, and he would turn and beam back--”
Her breathing stopped as she realized that the glass covering the picture was smudged. She closed her eyes and bit on her trembling lip as she imagined Harry all alone at Privet Drive, staring at the picture of the three of them, and touching the glass covering their faces.
She carefully examined the picture in her hand; something about it causing a warmer blush to flood her face.
Are those an imprint of lips on the glass….was he kissing my face…?
With a shake of her head, she set the picture aside.
Harry’s got other girls on his mind…Get a grip Granger.
Those were questions for another day, she thought and smiled when her fingers touched parchment and she pulled it out.
She sat on Harry's bed as she took out her wand and, with a deep breath, tapped it quietly and said, “I solemnly swear that I am up to no good.”
The ink lines began to spread from the point that her wand had touched, and they formed the words:
Are proud to present
THE MARAUDER'S MAP
She eagerly scanned the parchment for the dot signifying Harry's location, seeing Dumbledore's name in the Headmaster's office, Ginny’s name in the Library...and no sign of Harry’s location at all.
She closed her eyes tightly and took a deep breath.
I will not panic…
With great effort, Hermione opened her eyes and began examining the map using segments. Finally smiling, she saw Harry's name on the map.
Luna Lovegood was with Harry—standing, leaning or sitting close enough to him that their names were practically on top of each other. Hermione’s brain continued grumbling a denial that she was seeing what she was reading…
The Astronomy Tower?
Like every student, she knew what the Tower was famous for—and it was not for the educational search of either astronomy or astrology.
She could just imagine Rita Skeeter's quill writing the headlines: `Harry Potter's Real Heartache: The Boy-Who-Lived and The-Girl-He truly Lusts-For'—
Harry Potter was lately seen in the Astronomy Tower with a girl. Surprisingly, this girl was neither Ginny Weasley, nor Hermione Granger. The girl Harry Potter truly lusts for is Luna Lovegood…
Oh honestly! Hermione thought angrily.
Tears were falling down her cheeks.
THUD.
Hermione spun around before the thought could form fully in her mind, quickly thrusting the Map under Harry's; her face blushing and trying to stammer an explanation as to what she was doing there—
“ What are you doing here?”
***
Heheh, another cliffy! Hmm, I wonder who caught her there? Please keep reading to find out! I hope you enjoyed reading this chapter as much as I enjoyed writing it.
“What are you doing here?” Neville asked.
Hermione swore.
“I can explain--” Hermione started, before covering her mouth quickly.
“Come here Stanley! Get back into your house.” Neville said, picking up his frog from Ron’s bed and placing him back inside his box. “I told you you’re not allowed out.”
With that he bid him goodbye and left the dormitory.
Oh my…I really need to get out of here.
Hermione got up hurriedly, before ducking down just as quick when the door of the Boys Dormitory had swung open again.
This time, it was Ron.
“Now…where did I put that parcel?” Hermione heard Ron mumble, as he was rummaging around the place.
Hermione was now under Ron’s bed, trying with all her strength, to keep herself together. She sat still. Too still. Her eyes were glued on the spot that read ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘Luna Lovegood’ on the Marauder’s map that laid open beside her.
***
“Isn’t this so exciting Harry?” Luna smiled, bobbing up and down around him.
Harry simply laughed at her. “What is?”
“Dumbledore’s holding another Ball!”
Another Ball? Harry’s eyebrows furrowed.
“What’s up?”
“It really must be serious now.” Harry paused, looking at his shaky hands.
“Hmm? I don’t understand Harry.”
“Well, why else would Dumbledore be holding another Ball? He’s trying to get the student’s minds off of the war and everything.”
“Why is that such a bad idea? Everyone’s been stressing out too much. We need this.”
“Yeah, I know. I didn’t say it was bad.” Harry said gruffly. “I just feel I should be doing more.”
Harry could feel Luna reading him. Before he could come up with another excuse though, Luna placed a comforting hand on his knee, “It's okay, Harry, you don't have to explain. I understand, and I think Ron does too, but this is probably the last time we get to really enjoy ourselves you know?”
“Yeah, that’s what I mean. Anyway, Balls are never fun for the guys…”
Luna laughed, and rolled her eyes at him.
“You know how daft Ron is. You going to ask him yourself?”
“No.” Luna blushed furiously, suddenly becoming very interested in the carpet floor.
Harry raised an eyebrow at her, and she finally answered. “He’s already asked me.”
“What? Really? About time Ron woke up.” Harry grinned broadly at her. “When, and how? You’ve got to tell me how it happened so I can pay him out.”
“He asked me last week, in the Astronomy Tower. I finally got his telescope working…and then he, he came up to me and he put his arms around my waist and then…”
“Alright, alright that’s enough for me.” Harry got up and rolled his eyes at her, whilst Luna playfully hit him in the shoulder. She stayed seated for a moment before abruptly jumping up and running to Harry, pulling him into a friendly hug. She looked up at him with an unreadable expression.
“When will you ask Hermione to the Ball?”
Harry shook his head, staring intently at Luna.
“Don’t be stupid Harry. Do you really think you’re making her feel better by showing you can stay away from her?”
“Well, yeah.”
Luna rolled her eyes at him, and Harry heard her mutter something that sounded like ‘boys’. “You’re hurting her even more, because you aren’t even trying to figure out why she’s mad at you, and you’re not trying to fix this problem between you two. What you’re doing now is showing her that you don’t really cherish your friendship with her.” Luna noticed his mood suddenly change.
“But--”
She cut him straight off. “I know Harry, but I’m afraid that’s what you’re showing her.”
“So, I should ask her?”
Luna widened her eyes at him, before nodding her head viciously.
“When? Now?”
Luna glared at him. “No Harry, ask her when she’s already got a date…”
“I don’t know about this.” Harry said, frowning slightly since he was still trying to read her face.
“Start off by saying hello, and then give her--”
“Hey ‘Mione’.” Harry smiled, handing her over a bunch of tulips. He noticed she flinched when he called her that.
“Harry,” She said, pushing the tulips back at him.
Harry ignored her, and continued talking. He was not giving up that easily. “I was wondering, If you wanted to go to the ball with me.” he said the last part fairly quickly.
“What?”
“I was wondering,” Harry coughed. “If you wanted to--” He continued but was immediately cut off, by Seamus who looked like he had run around the whole school.
“Hermione, quick question.” He said smiling sweetly at her.
“Yes?”
“You want to go to the ball with me?” He asked, picking up her hand and kissing it.
Hermione noticed the look of disgust written all over Harry’s face.
“Of course,” She said, having on the sweetest smile.
“Awesome. Look forward to it.” He replied, “Oh hey Harry, how’s it going?” Seamus asked rhetorically before running off again.
Harry’s eyes were now plastered to the floor. Knuckles white, he was feeling angry, embarrassed, and upset all at the same time. Pushing those feelings aside, he behaved like a gentleman and tried to remain calm.
“So, what did you want Harry?” Hermione pushed.
“I…I was wondering if you wanted to,” Harry swallowed. “…finish off our Potions assignment tomorrow night. I have to get it out of the way, with Quidditch and everything.”
“Ok. Is that all?” Hermione bit her lip.
Harry looked up at her and made a sad attempt at a smile. “Yeah,” Harry croaked. “That’s all.” Harry replied as he walked off, accidentally dropping a tulip on his way.
Hermione’s eyes never left Harry as he walked away and a deep pain in her throat appeared as he handed over the bunch of flowers to some random girl. She knew exactly what Harry was going to ask her, and she wasn’t quite sure why she did what she did.
Hermione guiltily bent over and at a snail's pace picked up the tulip he dropped.
***
“Come on Harry, go and get dressed.” Luna persisted.
“I’m over everything Luna, please don’t make me.” Harry said, not lifting his eyes off the book he was reading
“Harry?”
“What?”
“What’s the matter?”
“What do you mean? All’s well.”
“Are you all right?”
“I’m fine now. Just concentrating,” he said abruptly.
“On what?”
“What do you mean?” He asked crossly, looking up at her. “Wow, you look amazing…really…”
“Thank you Harry.” Luna blushed, and bowed. “I mean, what are you concentrating on? You’ve been staring at the same page for the past hour.”
‘Oh, yeah. That she notices,’ he thought bitterly. “Look, I’m trying to learn a few new spells and this one is extremely difficult,” he noted irritably.
“But you’re studying potions, not ADDA,” she pointed out reasonably, puzzled.
“Argh,” he bit out, standing up abruptly and savagely shoving books, quills, and parchment into his already-bulging bag. “I’m going to bed.”
Luna sat there, mouth agape.
“What’s with him?” Ron whispered as he plopped down next to Luna. “Why isn’t he coming to the ball--?”
Luna shot a rather vicious look at Ron, meaning I’ll explain later.
“Harry please. I really want you to come to the ball.” Luna pleaded.
“With whom?” Harry replied. “I can’t go alone…I can’t even imagine what the girls will do to me.”
Ron was laughing so hard, his ears were beginning to go red. “He’s got a point you know.”
Luna ignored him, “You won’t be going alone.”
“So, with whom then?” Harry asked again.
“With Ron and me.”
Ron gave her a bewildered look, before quickly nodding his head after Luna stomped on his foot.
Harry pretended not to see what had just happened.
“Why not mate? It’ll be fun!” Ron said, making Harry look up immediately.
“You guys have matching robes don’t you?” Luna smiled…
***
All heads turned as Harry, Ron and Luna walked down the steps leading into the Great Hall. Harry and Ron, wearing all black with emerald green ties and matching handkerchiefs folded neatly in their front pockets, were standing on either side of Luna linking arms with her.
“Oh my…is that Luna Lovegood?” Lavender whispered to Hermione. “I know she’s slowly been progressing on the beauty side of things, but Hermione…she’s absolutely gorgeous tonight!”
Hermione didn’t seem the slightest bit interested.
Lavender shrieked again, causing Hermione to jump.
“Lav, what now?”
“Just take a look at her escorts! It’s Harry and Ron!” Lavender exclaimed excitedly, trying to move Hermione’s head in their direction. “And they’re wearing matching dress robes…”
“Lav, I really don’t see why you’re making a big dea--”. Hermione’s jaw locked shut.
“I’ve never seen Harry so…so, he looks really really hot…” Lavender garbled under her breath, just loud enough for only Hermione to hear her. “Well, he’s always been handsome, but---”
Luna and Ron were both smiling and nodding at everyone, whilst Harry was looking quite straight-faced. In reality, he was actually dazed and confused as to why he let them convince him to come along. Luna caught Harry’s expression and elbowed him gently. He turned to her, and read her lips mouthing the word ‘smile’.
Harry turned to everyone and gave a big hearty, but fake smile. Everyone bought it, and this was followed closely by cheers and claps around the stairs. As Harry was smiling, he caught Hermione’s eye. Embarrassed, he looked away immediately. Harry felt a knot forming in his stomach, but simply kept on walking until they found their designated table.
Soon enough, music started to play, and couples were starting to get up onto the dance floor.
“What’s up Harry?”
“It’s nothing Luna. Why don’t you and Ron go dance. I think I’ll just stay here. I’m starving.”
Luna laughed at him, before giving him a peck on the cheek. “Have fun okay? We’ll be back soon to join you.”
***
Harry thought the night had been even longer than he expected. Bored, Harry simply ate, and ate. He suspected that he had eaten even more than Ron did at Lunch. Ron and Luna never came back; and when they eventually did, they were too busy enjoying each other’s company, by that he meant snogging.
A few girls had noticed Harry sitting by himself, and asked him to dance with them. Harry, even more annoyed now said ‘no’ to each and everyone of them and waved them away. He explained he was feeling sick, and he wasn’t even supposed to be at the Ball.
By this time Harry had already gotten into a routine. First he would tap his fingers absently on the table, and then begin picking on more food and stuffing it in his mouth. He would steal glances every so often at Hermione’s table too, checking to see how she was doing. Harry knew she was always pretty, but tonight he thought she looked simply beautiful. She was wearing a silk, white wine dress, with a matching flower placed neatly in her tied back hair. Harry would sometimes hope that he would catch her eyes, but she was never looking over at him, well at least that’s what he thought anyway.
***
.:.Hermione’s POV.:.
Hermione guiltily looked over at Harry’s table. Had she been too hard on him? It was only now that she realized she had been jealous over nothing, nothing at all. By any means Luna and Harry were not in a relationship.
Hermione couldn’t help but feel a little happy when she saw Harry waving off some girls, who she presumed ‘asked him to dance’.
“Hermione, you wanna dance?” Seamus asked, pulling her out of her thoughts.
“No thank you Seamus. I’m a little tired - we’ve danced to practically every song since the ball started.” Hermione replied simply, still looking over at Harry.
“Why don’t you just go over there?” He said, a little annoyed.
“Go over where?” Hermione asked, taken aback from his tone.
“Over to Harry.”
“Why would you think that?” Hermione asked stupidly, going a little red.
“Well, you’ve been staring at him for the past…no actually, you’ve been staring at him full stop.” Seamus had stood up now.
“Well, If you really want to dance, go and ask someone else.” Her tone was now matching his. “I said I didn’t want to dance, and that’s that full stop.”
“That’s why this is a Ball Hermione, you’re meant to---”
“Can I please have your attention students.” Dumbledore announced into the microphone. Seamus immediately sat back down again, facing the opposite direction from Hermione.
“Sadly, the night is coming to a close, so in a few moments, I’m going to ask you to approach the fountain to pick a floating candle. Now, attached to that candle should be the name of a person of the opposite sex. This person will be the person you will have the final dance with.”
The room was suddenly filled with cheers, and mutters of excitement much to Harry’s distress. No thank you. I think I’m going to quietly slip out now… Harry thought, looking around at the group of girls who were eyeing him flirtatiously. No way, no way.
Just as Harry got up to leave, a hand was placed gently on his shoulder.
“Professor Dumbledore?”
“Where are you going Harry?” He asked hoarsely, his eyes glittering through his half-moon spectacles.
“Bed. I’m real knackered.” Harry replied honestly, looking up at Dumbledore, studying him closely. “You don’t look to good sir, did you find that Horcrux that we last talked about?” Harry said barely audibly.
“Yes, I did Harry, and I found out it was a fake.” Dumbledore replied, dejection evident in his voice. “That’s why I’m feeling a little drained at the moment...I used up nearly all my energy just to get to that Horcrux in the cave…”
“You should go and get some rest sir.” Harry said thoughtfully, “There are enough teachers here to patrol the Ball.”
“I think I will.” Dumbledore smiled at him,
“Oh, by the way. You’ve forgotten to choose your candle. Go on, there are still a few left.” Dumbledore smiled weakly, as he watched Harry hesitantly walking over to the fountain.
Harry noticed that Dumbledore didn’t leave until he had his hands on a candle. Typical… Harry shook his head.
Suddenly, Harry’s candle began to glow like a few others around him, and the letters began to form in neat carving on the side of the candle. Dumbledore always had style. Harry thought contentedly. His disposition changed when he read what name was written on the candle. Before Harry could do anything, he was being pulled by some force onto the dance floor, and he was greeted by the same expression of apprehension as he met his partner.
“I, we don’t have to do this.” Harry said, looking intently at her response.
“Yeah,” Hermione squeaked, before coughing to clear her throat. “Ok.”
“Goodnight then,” Harry said, as he began walking off.
Ah? Harry tried moving in every direction, but could only walk a one metre radius from where Hermione was standing.
Hermione simply looked up at him, apparently in the same predicament.
“Don’t be silly you two. You’ve picked up the candles, and now you must dance.” McGonagall snapped, clearly annoyed at some other students who tried doing the same thing.
“Well, how about we dance and get this over with.” Hermione said casually, looking at him straight in the eyes.
Harry nodded, held his hand for Hermione to hold, and then carefully placed a hand on her waist. Hermione tentatively took his hand, and then placed her other hand on his shoulder. At this moment, Harry thought nothing could have felt more awkward. Not only were they dancing at an arms distance, but they were also avoiding each other’s gaze as they were dancing.
Hermione’s neck finally gave in, and she turned and faced him, giving him an odd look as she studied him.
Harry, who was now sweating, felt Hermione’s eyes on him and turned to face her.
“Is there something on me?” He asked, now conscious of the way he looked.
Hermione shook her head, still looking at him intently.
“Is it my hair?”
Hermione let out a soft giggle, eyeing his cute Mohawk hair style (coming up diagonally from the top of his head) before turning away, clearly embarrassed. It wasn’t a real Mohawk; Harry still had all of his hair. Hermione snapped out of her trance and noticed his rather hurt expression, and promptly defended herself. “No, no. I didn’t mean it like that.”
Harry looked at her, not believing any of what she said.
“It suits you…”
***
Sooner or later, they finally relaxed in each others arms. Hermione and Harry had unintentionally drawn closer to each other, and Hermione’s head was now resting on his shoulder. They both had their eyes closed, and to both of them everything seemed so right…. All of a sudden Harry’s eyes immediately fluttered opened when he noticed Hermione had stopped dancing.
He then realized that the music had already stopped, and they were the only two left on the dance floor.
Everyone in the room was clapping and cheering, Harry swore he heard a few whistles in between. Hermione stumbled backward, and suddenly let go of Harry. “No,” she said, and did the only thing she could think of. She ran.
“Hermione wait!” Harry said, as he ran after her.
“Hermione, where are you?” Harry continued to call out, as he was walking throughout the grounds.
He had a hunch and headed up to the lake, finding Hermione sitting on a tree stump, leaning over; her shoulders shaking slightly.
Not knowing what else to do, Harry sat down next to Hermione and said, “I'm sorry.”
Hermione sniffed in surprise and hastily wiped her eyes. “No,” She said again. Her chest hitched a little as she spoke.
“Hermione, we need to talk. This is something we should have done a long time ago.”
“No.” Hermione shook her head as she looked up at Harry. He felt a pain in his chest at seeing her tear-stained cheeks.
Harry took a breath. “Please Hermione. You and I both know we need this.”
Hermione searched Harry's face. “It’s not that easy Harry! It, it hurts so much.”
“I know you’re in pain, but I don’t know why!” Harry said, louder than he had intended to, and surprised Hermione. “I mean,” He went on, “How are we supposed to fix this if I don’t even know what I did wrong to begin with.”
“It’s fine, really.” Hermione made a sad attempt at a smile. “I’m getting over it.”
“It's not fine. I need to know Hermione.”
Hermione sighed and continued to sob even harder.
“Please don’t cry. Hermione, please just say something. Anything. You can hit me, shout at me, spit at me…I don’t care. I know I deserve it.” Harry glanced at her, his eyes deep and unreadable.
Crying, Hermione stood up and began hitting him, not really aiming at him. Harry didn’t try to stop her, but made an attempt to hold her in his arms, and when she finally gave up, she suddenly began sobbing in his chest and thumping her hands at it. What bothered her most was that he never mentioned it again and he left without a word. Harry had kissed her tenderly on the mouth, pulling her into his arms, and putting so much passion into it. It was the best kiss of her life, and she was never to mention it again. It hurt her so much, but she had to forget, because it didn’t mean anything to Harry.
.:.Flashback.:. (Excerpt from Chapter 18)
“Hermione, come out. What’s wrong?” Harry pleaded as he was knocking on the door.
“Go away Harry! Please just go!” Hermione shouted.
“Why? Not until you tell me what’s wrong!” Harry raised his voice to match hers.
“You want to know what’s wrong? Huh?” Hermione cried as she stepped out of the toilet. “Well, where do I start? Hmm…you left without a word, didn’t even bother saying goodbye, didn’t even bother writing a letter to say you were ‘okay’ to at least comfort you’re friends who were worried sick about you--”
“—but Hermione, I did say goodbye. Lavender and Luna were there and--”
“Exactly! Luna Lovegood!”
“What about her!?”
“The thing I don’t understand is you can tell her everything, but with me---”
“I do tell you everything!”
Hermione ignored him. “I don’t understand how you can tell a stranger your whole life story, and you can’t even share it with me, your best friend!”
“You know my life story Hermione, as does everyone else. What else do I have to tell? I tell you everything!”
“You didn’t tell me you were leaving did you? Why didn’t you even bother saying goodbye at least? A formal goodbye would have been lovely!!”
“I didn’t want to wake you that’s why!”
Hermione continued to ignore him. “…and now you come back thinking everything is ok. Well it’s not!! A lot has happened. A lot has changed!”
“I asked you about what had happened, and you said it was ‘same old, same old’!”
“You just don’t get it do you?” Hermione sobbed, and stormed off.
“No, I don’t Hermione.”
“Fine, maybe she’d be better off alone.” Harry thought to himself as he walked out of the girl’s lavatory and made his way to the library.
.:.End of Flashback.:.
“Do you remember that night, when something happened between us?”
Hermione looked up at him in shock, still sobbing. “I don’t know what you’re talking about…”
“Do you remember?” He asked harshly.
Hermione’s lower lip shook a little and she nodded.
“Well I lied to you Hermione.” Harry eyes were now beginning to water. “I lied to you. I told you that I didn’t feel anything, but I did.” He paused. “And I told you that what happened between us was a mistake, but it wasn’t really, it made sense. I lied to you because I really like you, and I care about you. I didn’t want to put you into more danger…I didn’t want Voldemort to go after you because, just becauseI …Remember Ginny? Remember what happened to her? And she was only attacked because she was my best friend’s sister! Hermione, there’s no point. A relationship will just make it even harder! I don’t have very-- That’s why…that’s why we couldn’t be together…that’s why we – ‘You and I Hermione’ can’t be together.”
“Don’t I get a say in that Harry?” Hermione replied fiercely, fighting back the tears. “Everyone is in danger already anyway. It wouldn’t make a differe--”
“Yes it would, because then…” Harry looked away, wiping his eyes. “I’ve been nothing but miserable ever since that day, and when I came back…I was hoping to return with you still as my best friend…”
“Look Harry…I’m sorry--”
“No, I’m not saying this to try to get back at you, no. You shouldn’t be saying sorry. It’s all my fault. I know I was being such a prick that night, but I didn’t know what else to do. I care about you so much, you know that…I just couldn’t think properly…looking back I--- I wish I was never born...” Harry mumbled the last part but Hermione still heard him, and she felt a hard pinch in her heart as he said it. She reached to put a hand on his arm, but he moved away, avoiding her gaze.
“Don’t say that. Please don’t.”
“Well that’s just how I feel okay!” Harry yelled. “Look at what I’ve done to you; done to our friendship! I honestly think you’d be a lot happier if we hadn’t met.”
“You’ve got it all wrong. Harry, I truthfully don’t know where I’d be without you. I don’t think I’d even have friends if it weren’t for you. The day I stepped foot on that train, I was scared. S-Scared because I never really had any real friends at my old school, and I was scared it would be the same thing here.” Hermione whispered, her voice trembling. “But then I met you…and you accepted me from the day we met, and then…you saved me from that troll Harry.”
“Ron was there too. He killed that troll with his wand.”
“He wouldn’t have been there if it weren’t for you. Ron loathed me. Don’t try to be modest with me, I was there and I remember it clearly Harry, you bravely jumped on that troll, and told Ron to kill it.” Hermione replied sharply. “I’m not denying that what you did didn’t hurt me, but the day I found out that you left broke me into pieces! You left me all alone to pick up the pieces, and when I was almost finished, you decided to come back causing them all the shatter again…” She barely made it through the last part.
Harry’s heart was now in his throat, and he didn’t know what to say. Sorry simply wasn’t good enough, but he said it anyway. They stood there in silence for what seemed an eternity to both of them, but they both felt the load of weight on their shoulders lighten up a little after their talk.
“It’s raining Harry.” Hermione said softly,
“Let’s go back inside.”
“No.”
“No?”
“No.”
“Everyone should be gone now, if that’s what you’re worried about.”
“No.” Hermione replied again.
Harry raised an eyebrow at her.
“I like the rain.”
Harry stared at her studying her face and trying to understand. “Rain means sadness, tears, and sorrow. I’ve done enough of that already…” He said seriously.
“I like the rain. Everything is clean again, and now plants and trees that were dying have a chance to live.” She smiled as she watched the water fall from the sky.
“You're incredible,” Harry whispered, surprising him as they escaped his lips.
She looked up, taken out of her thoughts.
“There's a war, it's a rainy day, but you see it for something, something different. You make life seem all the less miserable, you make life worth living.” Harry marveled.
Hermione stared at him intently as he spoke, noticing his eyes becoming red. “Maybe this magic can make the world a bit lighter, so your shoulders won't hurt so much,” she suggested quietly, looking into his eyes. “You can’t keep pushing people away. I know you’re scared, but you have to trust me, trust your friends. If you keep your true feelings bottled up inside, you may end up all alone.” Harry noticed she squeaked a little as she said the word ‘alone’.
Harry placed a hand on her cheek, “I may not have a choice.”
Hermione settled her face into his palm, closing her eyes. “You always have a choice Harry.”
“I don't understand it, but it seems that every time I'm with you the world gets a little lighter. I often forget that anyone else ever exists or that there was ever a weight on my shoulders. Sometimes, like just now, I don't even feel it anymore.”
Hermione opened her eyes and her lip quivered slightly, “Really?”
“Yeah. When you leave the feeling goes away, though.” Harry brushed a piece of hair out of her eyes. “It’s been horrible ever since, Hermione. I need you to be my friend again.”
“I’m sorry.” Hermione leaned in slowly and wrapped her arms around his neck, her face just inches from his.
Harry smiled sadly and kissed her cheek, whispering in her ear, “Neither does anyone else, especially you ‘Mione.”
As he drew away, they stared into each other's eyes for an amount of time that neither of them would ever know. They studied each other, and felt something burst. They didn’t know what it was, and didn’t have time to question it. What they knew was that it was inevitable, and only a matter of time before destiny took over. This was happening, and it made sense.
Their lips met and Harry felt his heart break, only to start pulling itself together. Her lips parted and he felt whole again, a feeling that he had not known for a long time. His lungs screamed for air, but Harry continued to kiss her, if only for just one second more. They finally let go, and they knew that they had just changed their lives forever.
Hermione rested her forehead against Harry's, holding him close and staring into his soul. After a moment, Harry turned his head just slightly, so it was still touching hers, but so he was now looking over her shoulder.
“What's wrong?” Hermione asked her brow furrowing as she read him carefully.
“Everything's going to change now, isn't it?” Harry asked after a moment, looking down at his feet.
Hermione said nothing, but simply nodded and held him closely, resting her head on his shoulder, and giving him an occasional kiss on the cheek or neck, just to remind him that she was not taking it back.
Harry felt her lips on his skin and smiled before his chest began to hitch slightly, Hermione's doing the same. He pulled her up, looking at her, “You feel it, too, don't you?” He asked.
“Yes, I do.” She said seriously, “I know you Harry, and I know you’re a noble person, but I assure you it’s not going to work on me. You can’t use Voldemort as an excuse. I’m going to fight by your side, and I’m going to help you. You know I would die for you.”
“That’s what scares me Hermione. I don’t want you to.” Harry had turned away now.
“No, Harry. You’re not running away again.”
“Hermione, I’m not sure about this. I’m scared. I just know and have this gut feeling that Voldemort is going to make me choose between saving you and the world!”
“And you know what you’d have to do then don’t you?”
“Hermione,” Harry sighed. “I’d choose you without a second thought.”
“Harry,”
“I’d choose you because, because you are the world to me.”
They held each other for several moments before Hermione smiled, speaking, “It's okay, let’s just pray nothing like that will happen.”
“How can you be so sure? Hermione, there’s--”
“Shh…” Hermione gave him a soft kiss and grinned. “Because it's raining.” Hermione turned around and slipped into his arms, staying there for an unknown amount of time, watching as the rain began to subside, and smiling at the rainbow forming in the distance.
Wooh, that was a long chapter! Over 5000 words! Well, that’s because school’s coming up, and yeah well I won’t have much time either. I will be starting on the next few chapters soon, so I could probably post it sometime during term. Thanks for the faithfulness! This chapter was meant to be a treat for all of you who have been waiting patiently for the Harry and Hermione hook-up!! Please please please review! I worked so hard on this chapter and I really would appreciate reviews for this one! I hope you enjoyed the chapter pics too!! Until next time :)
http://www.harrypotterfanfiction.com