(no subject)
Seeing as how I started this in 8th grade or something, it's bound to be shitty. I forgot about it, and just found it recently, so instead of throwing it away, I decided to post it. Even though no one will read it, considering it's only rated PG. So... sorry for the stupidness/sappiness. I just felt bad for the poor fic! [Btw! It's Harry/Hermione. "Gasp," I know, but what can I do? :(]
Arcs of True Colours
"...Harry! Have you even heard anything I've said?"
"Hmm?" Harry, who had been resting his chin on his hand, glanced up at Hermione. "No... No, I haven't, sorry."
Ron choked on his scrambled eggs and quickly drank some orange juice. "Blimey, Harry! She's been going on for over five minutes now! How can you not have heard her?"
Hermione wrinkled her nose at Ron, then turned to Harry. "Well, I've just been saying..."
Ron rolled his eyes. "Great, now she's going to repeat everything she's already said."
An expression of anguish flitted across Hermione's face before she continued. "It's Tuesday already and we're leaving Saturday morning, and exams and classes are already over... So I thought we should do something fun to celebrate. But I can't decide what..."
Harry watched as Hermione bit her lower lip, a small smile appearing on his face as he imagined himself kissing those same lips. Then he realized she was expecting an answer from him. "Uh... How about we go to Diagon Alley and check up on Fred and George? We can buy some of their things and use them on Filch and Mrs. Norris."
That seemed to satisfy her. "Alright, that's what we'll do then. Ron, aren't you done eating yet?"
"Hey, I'm a growing boy! I need to eat," he said defensively.
"How much more do you need to grow? You're already taller than most of the other seventh years and..."
Their bickering was drowned out as Harry studied Hermione: her tresses no longer bushy, but cascading in beautiful waves past her shoulders; her sparkling honey brown eyes encircled by thick dark lashes; her fair, creamy complexion making her seem as though she was nothing less than a porcelain doll; her scarlet lips, so soft and inviting....
"Ron's finally through. Come on, Harry." Hermione took his hand and pulled him along behind her, grabbing Ron on the way out the double front doors.
The trio tromped down the lawn, and Hermione and Ron determined they would get to Diagon Alley by Apparating, since they doubted Dumbledore would be upset with them as it was their last week at Hogwarts. However, all Harry could concentrate on was the fact that Hermione was still holding his hand.
With three loud cracks, the threesome found themselves inside ninety-three Diagon Alley, the premises of Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes. Fred looked up from the magazine he was reading and jumped up.
"Harry! Hermione, Ron! What brings you three here? Oy, George! Get out here! We have visitors!"
George came out of the back room slowly, apparently in the process of adding something, since visible numbers were floating around his head and combining themselves to form higher numbers. When he glanced up and saw his youngest brother and two friends, the numbers disappeared and he hurried towards them, shaking their hands vigorously.
"Nice to see you all here! Bloody hell, Ron, you've grown taller than us!"
"Eh, don't worry, little bro. We'll catch up," said Fred, winking.
Hermione laughed. Harry had a vague recollection of the things he had said and done during their long stay at the shop, except for Hermione constantly asking his opinion for the things she chose, and the heart-melting smiles she gave him whenever he agreed with her. And, of course, he agreed with everything she said.
*****
"Harry! Hello!" said Hermione, dangling their purchases in front of his face.
"Huh?" Harry snapped out of his newest reverie.
"We're going to try out some of the stuff we bought."
"Fred and George wanted us to set off a Weasleys' Wildfire Whiz-Bang in tribute to them," added Ron.
"Are you coming?" asked Hermione.
"Nah," replied Harry, shaking his head.
"Why not? Is something wrong, Harry?" inquired Hermione, her face immediately clouding over with worry.
"No, nothing's wrong," he assured his friends. "I'm just gonna stay here and...think some things over."
After asking if he was sure, Hermione and Ron realized their best friend really did need some time alone and left him hesitantly. In a few minutes' time, loud laughter and squeals could be heard from downstairs, but Harry sank into his usual armchair and gazed into the fire, oblivious to everything but the crackling of the flames.
His latest daydream had included Hermione, of course. However, a new problem had risen: Ron. It was obvious Ron had feelings for Hermione, even from their third and fourth years. But he hadn't done anything, had he? He hadn't gone after Hermione, he hadn't shown that he really, truly cared for her, that he worried about her safety. It had all been Harry; he had saved her from the troll, he had protected her from Professor Lupin when he had transformed into a werewolf in their third year, he had taken her on a ride on Buckbeak, etc. Hadn't he proven himself worthy enough for her?
They were alike in so many ways and rarely fought, unlike her constant squabbles with Ron. They even had a common Muggle background, with him having grown up with his aunt and uncle and her having Muggle parents. Not to mention their future: Harry wanted to become an Auror whereas Hermione wanted to work at the Ministry of Magic. They'd be together almost all the time, unless Harry was traveling.
Harry had grown into a handsome young man and was good at Quidditch and saving peoples' lives; Hermione was good at everything he wasn't, not to mention gorgeous and brilliant. They made the perfect couple. They practically melded into the same person. Couldn't she see that? They were like a jigsaw puzzle just waiting to be put together.
Harry remembered every single time Hermione had thrown her arms around him or kissed his cheek. He recalled all the moments when he had hugged her protectively, or stood up for her whenever Malfoy or the other Slytherins called her names. This was their last year at Hogwarts and Harry couldn't bear the thought of being away from her. He wasn't sure whether Ron loved or fancied Hermione, but he knew this to be a fact: he, Harry, loved Hermione with all his heart. He sighed.
"What am I going to tell Ron?" he muttered to himself, heading up the stairs to his dorm and climbing into bed.
At half past twelve, Ron stepped into the room and shut the door silently behind him. As he was changing into his pajamas and climbing into bed, Harry asked into the darkness, "Ron?”
"Yeah, mate?"
Harry shook his head, then remembered Ron couldn't see him. "Nothing."
"You sure? How come you're not asleep yet?"
"Yeah. I've been thinking this entire time and couldn't fall asleep."
"Do you want to tell me anything?"
Harry changed his answer mid-word. "Ye-no. No, maybe some other time."
"You sure about that, mate?"
"Yes. Goodnight, Ron."
"Night, Harry."
*****
Harry couldn't eat anything the next morning at breakfast, even though he knew he needed to, since he planned on telling Ron about his feelings for Hermione later that day and probably wouldn't be able to eat anything else after that.
"Harry, are you alright?" asked Hermione anxiously, leaning forward and holding the back of her hand against Harry's forehead.
"Yeah, I'm fine."
"Well, you look a little flushed..." said Hermione, sitting back down. Harry smiled inwardly at her concern for his health.
To make her feel better, he nibbled idly on a piece of toast.
"If you're sure... Alright, so what should we do today? Visit Hagrid, maybe?"
Ron mumbled incoherently through his full mouth, spraying bits of bacon everywhere. Hermione looked at him disgustedly, muttering something about "no manners, whatsoever."
He swallowed his mouthful and said, "That's a good idea. We can find out what's up with him and that Maxime woman."
Hermione nodded. "Yeah, and we'll see how Grawp's doing."
As the three of them stood up, Harry said, "Um, Ron... I have to go up to our dormitory for a sec. Will you come with me?"
Ron looked confused. "Why do I need to go?"
"Just come with me, okay?"
Ron agreed and told Hermione they would meet her at Hagrid's hut. The two boys hurried up the stairs, through the Fat Lady's portrait and the Common Room, and stopped when they were in the privacy of their empty dormitory room.
"What do you need, Harry?" asked Ron, looking around.
"Uh... I need..." Harry glanced into his trunk and picked up the item which was at the very top: the leather-covered book filled with photographs of his parents that Hagrid had given him at the end of his first year at Hogwarts. "I need to ask Hagrid who this one bloke is whose in quite a few of the pictures with my dad and mum." Harry was surprised at how quickly the lie came to him.
"Alright, then, let's go," said Ron, heading for the door.
Harry couldn't let this perfect moment go. Then again, exactly what moment was perfect to tell your best friend that you loved the girl he loved? But he knew the quicker he got this over with, the better. "Ron! Wait!"
Ron stopped at the door and turned back. "What is it?"
"I have to tell you something."
"Well... Go ahead."
"You ought to sit down for this..."
Ron, though looking thoroughly confused and slightly worried, obliged.
Harry's voice came out in a high-pitched squeak. "I lo-" He cleared his throat and tried again, setting the photo album down. "IloveHermione," he said in a very fast whisper.
Ron didn't say anything. When Harry looked up, Ron was still gazing at him expectantly.
"What do you have to tell me, Harry?"
Harry sighed, realizing Ron hadn't heard. "I...love...Hermione," he repeated reluctantly, not looking at Ron.
There was a stunned silence, and Harry knew this time his best friend had heard. After a few minutes, Harry broke the silence.
"R-ron?," he said, glancing up at him.
Ron was shaking silently, his face almost as red as his hair. Finally he whispered, "Y-you what?" Not expecting an answer, he continued, "I can't believe you...you love her. Harry, I... I've..." He couldn't bring himself to tell even his best friend his true feelings for Hermione. Suddenly the pained expression he wore was traded in for an angry one as he jumped up. "Harry, I trusted you! I thought you were my best mate! But best mates don't fall in love with the girl that...."
Harry opened his mouth to retort, "You can't even say that you love her! So what am I supposed to do? Sit around and wait until you do? Or go tell her for you? You have to think about my feelings too!" Instead, he could only utter his name over and over. "Ron... Ron, I..."
"You what?!" bellowed Ron, glaring at Harry. "Huh? What?!"
"I'm sorry," whispered Harry.
"Well, that's just great! Being sorry doesn't change a single ruddy thing! You still have feelings for her!”
"Ron, I'm really sorry. Please, just hear me out..."
"No! Get out! Get out of here this bloody instant!"
Harry looked hurt. "Are you sure? Atleast listen to what I have to say..."
"Ha. I don't think so. Go!"
Harry nodded slowly and walked out of the room. Ron slammed the door behind him and kicked it. Harry paused, wondering if he should just go back and tell his best friend that he was kidding, that he just wanted to see how much he really cared for Hermione. But he knew he'd be fooling himself if he did... He had done the right thing, no matter how much it hurt. Suddenly he remembered Hermione must still be waiting at Hagrid's. He ran the entire way to the hut and knocked on the door, out of breath. Hermione let him in, smiling.
"Abou' time yeh got here, Harry! The tea's gettin' cold." Hagrid said, thrusting a cup into Harry's hands. "An' where's yer chum? Ron?"
"Oh, uh... He couldn't make it. He's busy doing...something."
"Eh, I'll talk ter him later." Hagrid motioned to his personal belongings, most of which were stuffed into one large trunk. "Thinkin' abou' visitin' Olympe over the summer."
Hermione grinned. "Just thinking about it?"
Hagrid smiled back. "Nah, we're gettin' married."
"Married!" exclaimed Harry.
Hagrid nodded. "Yep. We decided it was time ter tie the knot. She tol' me ter come down there, bu' I don' wan' ter leave my job. So we decided she was gonna come up here, since Dumbledore doesn' mind havin' ter put up with two half-giants. An' so next year, the pair o' us are gonna be teachin' Care o' Magical Creatures together."
"That's great, Hagrid! I wish we could be here next year though..." said Hermione sadly. "I'm going to miss everyone so much! Dumbledore, the professors, my friends, and not to mention you."
"Aw, tha's sweet, Hermione. I'll miss yeh all ter. Oh! Grawp says hello ter Hermy and Harry."
Hermione laughed. "Well, Hagger, tell Grawp hi back from us. Where is he now, anyway?"
"Oh, he's still in the fores'. Bit mo' controllable now, though..."
By the time they left Hagrid's hut, it was dark outside. Harry cast a sidelong glance at Hermione.
"Hermione..."
"Yes, Harry?"
"I wanted to, er, ask you something."
"Well, go on then. What do you want to ask me?"
"D'you... d'you have any feelings for Ron?"
Hermione stopped walking and studied him. "Why do you ask?"
Harry looked away, flustered. "Er, I, uh... N-no reason, actually, I, uh, I was just asking..."
A small smile was forming on Hermione's face. Harry glanced back up at her.
"So, um, do you?"
"Well, not really, to tell you the truth," answered Hermione slowly. "I mean, I guess I used to, but my feelings for him have been dying out since the end of last year. Why do you want to know?"
This time Harry examined Hermione. After awhile, he brushed a stray strand of hair away from her face gently and smiled. "No reason. Come on. I'm hungry." He started walking back to the castle and realized Hermione wasn't with him. He looked back. "Hermione?"
She jumped, apologized, and hurried to catch up with him, linking her arm with his. The two walked into Hogwarts and went to the Great Hall. The first thing Harry noticed was that Ron wasn't at the Gryffindor table. Apparently, Hermione had too, for she was gripping his arm tighter and looking up and down the table.
"Where's Ron? He didn't come to Hagrid's and now he isn't here for dinner. It's not like him to miss a meal..."
Hermione was right. Harry suggested they go up and see if he wanted them to bring food up for him. Hermione agreed, and while she waited in the Common Room, Harry went up to their dormitory and let himself in quietly. Ron was sitting at the edge of his bed, staring out the window glumly. His face hardened when he saw Harry.
"Ron, it's time for dinner. Are you coming down?"
He didn't answer.
"Well, do you want me to bring something up for you?"
Still no response.
"Um, Hagrid wants you to stop by his hut sometime before the year is out. And he and Madam Maxime are going to get married this summer. And Grawp is still here, still in the Forbidden Forest. Those are basically all the highlights of what happened at Hagrid's. Are you sure you don't want to come eat something?"
Ron grunted. "No."
Atleast he was speaking to him again. Harry knew better than to make him even more annoyed and left the room, telling Hermione Ron was busy thinking about some things. Hermione hesitantly accepted his answer, mumbling something about how odd it was because the two of them were suddenly needing time alone more than she did.
After dinner was over and Hermione and Harry had parted ways with a hug and a quick kiss on the cheek, he left a piece of apple pie on Ron's night stand and climbed into his own bed. He could tell Ron wasn't asleep, and was probably hungry. He felt bad for causing Ron enough pain to miss an entire meal. Two, for all he knew. He and Hermione had had lunch with Hagrid in his hut. Harry thought it was pretty romantic, even though Hagrid was there, chomping and slurping away.
*****
When Harry stumbled into the Common Room the next day, he found Hermione and Ron sitting together, talking in hushed tones. Hermione jumped up when she saw Harry and threw herself onto him.
"Morning, Harry! Guess what; my parents owled me this morning, saying that I would have to stay at the Burrow for the summer. I mean, it was their first owl and all, and I'm glad it got through alright, but I'm just so happy I don't have to go back to the Muggle world so soon." She paused for a quick breath. "I don't believe I've quite accepted the fact that school will be over in just a couple more days. Ron sent Pig off with a letter, informing Mr. and Mrs. Weasley that I'll be staying with them, but he doesn't think they'll mind. But, Harry, you will come, won't you? I mean..." She broke off again, this time looking away shyly. "I will see you again, won't I? Oh, Harry, I'm going to miss you so much! I don't know what I'll do without you. I've grown so attached to you. Ron, too, but I'll be staying with him." She wrapped her arms around him again tightly.
As much as Harry loved feeling Hermione's body so close to his own, Ron was fiercely studying the carpet by the fireplace, so he reluctantly peeled Hermione off.
"Calm down, Hermione, we still have two whole days together. And I'm pretty sure the Durselys wouldn't mind me not going home to them this summer, but..." Harry faltered, glancing over at Ron, who pretended he hadn't heard their conversation.
Hermione didn't seem to catch on to the tenseness between her two best friends and pressed on. "But...?"
"But nothing. Now, come on, let's get a bite to eat." He took her by the hand and dragged her after him, stopping next to Ron. "Come on, I know you're starving too." Harry grabbed Ron's arm and pulled him up. Ron, surprisingly, didn't draw back, but he did slip his arm free of Harry's grasp and guided the way down to the Great Hall. After breakfast, which was one of the most quiet ones they'd ever had together, the three friends stood around, not sure of what to do.
"How about we go play Quidditch? I'd love to go fly around one last time." Harry glanced at Hermione. "And, this time, you're going to play too."
Hermione's eyes widened. "What? No way."
"Oh, come on, it'll be a blast," said Harry with a mischievous grin. "I've never seen you fly."
"I don't know..." replied Hermione uncertainly. But Harry knew she had already given in.
"Well, I'm going to get our brooms. You can ride Ginny's," Harry told her.
Ron, who had been observing the two of them the entire time, said quickly, "No, it's alright. I'll go get the brooms. You two wait here." He hurried off before anybody could protest.
As Harry watched Ron's retreating figure hasten away, he noticed, through the corner of his eye, Hermione studying him. He looked at her full-on, and she quickly focused her gaze elsewhere. He bit back a smile.
"Is there anything on my face, Hermione?"
"Hmm? Oh, no, nothing. It's...it's perfect," she whispered, still not looking at him.
A corner of Harry's mouth lifted. Hermione had never been this quiet and shy around him before. Could she possibly feel what he felt for her? They didn't speak until Ron returned with the brooms and were contemplating their positions on the Quidditch field.
"I'll be Keeper and you can be Chaser," Harry said to Hermione. He turned to Ron. "And I guess you'll be Seeker, then."
"Actually... I'd like to be Seeker," Hermione told them.
Ron shrugged and left silently to retrieve the Quaffle, Snitch, and a club. When he returned, the game was launched smoothly. Hermione turned out to be a fantastic Seeker, catching the Snitch within half an hour both rounds they played, and the tides had turned: Ron was speaking to Harry again. Harry hadn't even noticed when, but he was grateful enough not to ask.
"-But you almost fell off the broom!" exclaimed Ron, laughing.
"Atleast I caught the Snitch faster than you made three goals, didn't I, Harry?" Hermione turned to look at Harry, who was trudging along behind them quietly.
"Hmm? Oh, yeah." Harry smiled and nodded, but it was obvious he hadn't heard what they were saying.
Finally, Ron said, "You go on, Hermione. Harry and I'll catch up with you later."
Hermione knew something was wrong, and was smart enough not to ask. When she left, Ron cleared his throat several times and glanced away from Harry.
"I'm sorry," he mumbled.
"It's okay," Harry told him.
"No, it's not. I shouldn't have gotten so angry with you."
"Anybody would have."
"But I'm not anybody. I'm your best mate, and I apologize." He paused. "I just wanted to tell you that... you should go for it."
Harry's head snapped up. "What?"
Ron nodded. "Yeah. I've realized I don't fancy her anymore. I mean, I used to, and I know she did too, but something went wrong, and I don't think either of us know exactly what. So I've been thinking... you guys are perfect for each other. You should go and get her before it's too late."
Harry looked at Ron's smiling face. "Really?"
"Yes," replied Ron, nodding again. "Tomorrow's our last full day here, so you should do whatever you need to by then."
With Ron's friendship and added approval in place, Harry was already deep in thought about the next day.
*****
Lunch, the next afternoon, was filled with Neville's endless chattering about the big celebration his grandmother was going to throw upon his arrival back home. The second he quieted down and turned his attention to Dean and Seamus, Ron kicked Harry's leg under the table and motioned towards Hermione.
"Ow, that hurt!"
Hermione looked up at Harry. "What? Is something wrong?"
"No, but, er..." He took a deep breath before continuing. "Do you think you can meet me at the tree by the lake at 6:30?"
"Well, dinner's at 7:00 tonight, but I guess that's fine. I should be able to make it by then. You see, Lavender and Parvati wanted to have a small, girls-only graduation party in our dormitory." She turned to the redhead steadily stuffing his face beside her. "What about you, Ron? Will you be able to make it?"
Harry quickly interrupted, "Actually, I'm just asking you. Ron's not coming."
Ron swallowed his mouthful of food and caught Harry's eye before saying, "Yeah, I've still got to visit Hagrid before the graduation dinner, and that's the only free time I'll have."
"Oh," said Hermione, nibbling on her lower lip.
Harry could tell she was trying not to grin. Perhaps the thought of meeting Harry alone excited her as much as it did him.
*****
It began raining when Harry trudged out to the tree the Golden Trio had spent countless hours laughing, studying, and pondering the answers to various types of problems under, and it was pouring by the time Hermione arrived.
Harry grinned. "Glad you could make it."
"No problem. This rain is a bit annoying, though."
Harry pulled her directly under the tree where the rain wasn't coming down as hard and looked down at her. "This better?"
Hermione nodded. "Yes, a bit. So...what did you want to tell me, Harry?"
The time to let Hermione know his true feelings had come, but Harry wasn't sure how to express them. "Er... Okay, you see, Hermione..."
Hermione gazed up at him intently. "Yes?"
Harry sighed. "I don't know how to say this, Hermione, so I'm just going to come out with it...I love you. I have from the moment I realized what love truly is. I tried to show it to you in so many ways, but then I found out you and Ron fancied each other. I was crushed, Hermione, but since you two are my best friends, I tried to drown my feelings for you and let things work out how they were supposed to. I tried, but it didn't work." Harry took Hermione's hands in his. "You were all I could think about. I didn't even care if you fancied me back or not. All those affectionate gestures, your laughter, your hugs, your kisses on the cheek... That's what kept my feelings going. That’s what kept me going.” He paused, tenderly reaching out to brush away a strand of wet hair plastered to her cheek. “I couldn’t stand the thought of being without you after Hogwarts, so I knew I had to tell you, no matter what the consequences. But I thought I owed it to Ron to atleast let him know, and it turns out he’s okay with it. And now...” It felt as though all of his emotions, along with his heart, were gushing out of his mouth. He sighed again and looked into Hermione’s eyes almost pleadingly. “Don’t you see, Hermione? We’re perfect for each other, and--”
Hermione had thrown herself onto Harry, hugging him tightly, the side of her face pressed against his chest as she held on to him as though her life depended on it, sobbing and mumbling incoherently. “I do see...Harry, I do...I love you, too...goodness, if I had...oh, Harry...you don’t know how... I love you so much...I can’t believe...”
Harry gently pulled Hermione back, looking into her tear-filled eyes searchingly, as if he was unwilling, or even scared, to believe it was all true, that she truly did love him back.
But then Hermione went up on her tippy-toes, one hand behind Harry’s head, and pressed her lips against his. Harry shuddered at the contact and closed his eyes, losing himself in the moment. After awhile, Hermione pulled back, smiling up at him.
“I really do love you, Harry,” she said, in response to his unspoken question. “I do.”
Relieved that Hermione was, indeed, being completely sincere, a grin broke out on Harry’s face. He pulled her close and drew her into a deep, slow kiss, neither noticing that the rain had stopped and two iridescent rainbows had appeared in the brilliant blue sky.
End
Arcs of True Colours
"...Harry! Have you even heard anything I've said?"
"Hmm?" Harry, who had been resting his chin on his hand, glanced up at Hermione. "No... No, I haven't, sorry."
Ron choked on his scrambled eggs and quickly drank some orange juice. "Blimey, Harry! She's been going on for over five minutes now! How can you not have heard her?"
Hermione wrinkled her nose at Ron, then turned to Harry. "Well, I've just been saying..."
Ron rolled his eyes. "Great, now she's going to repeat everything she's already said."
An expression of anguish flitted across Hermione's face before she continued. "It's Tuesday already and we're leaving Saturday morning, and exams and classes are already over... So I thought we should do something fun to celebrate. But I can't decide what..."
Harry watched as Hermione bit her lower lip, a small smile appearing on his face as he imagined himself kissing those same lips. Then he realized she was expecting an answer from him. "Uh... How about we go to Diagon Alley and check up on Fred and George? We can buy some of their things and use them on Filch and Mrs. Norris."
That seemed to satisfy her. "Alright, that's what we'll do then. Ron, aren't you done eating yet?"
"Hey, I'm a growing boy! I need to eat," he said defensively.
"How much more do you need to grow? You're already taller than most of the other seventh years and..."
Their bickering was drowned out as Harry studied Hermione: her tresses no longer bushy, but cascading in beautiful waves past her shoulders; her sparkling honey brown eyes encircled by thick dark lashes; her fair, creamy complexion making her seem as though she was nothing less than a porcelain doll; her scarlet lips, so soft and inviting....
"Ron's finally through. Come on, Harry." Hermione took his hand and pulled him along behind her, grabbing Ron on the way out the double front doors.
The trio tromped down the lawn, and Hermione and Ron determined they would get to Diagon Alley by Apparating, since they doubted Dumbledore would be upset with them as it was their last week at Hogwarts. However, all Harry could concentrate on was the fact that Hermione was still holding his hand.
With three loud cracks, the threesome found themselves inside ninety-three Diagon Alley, the premises of Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes. Fred looked up from the magazine he was reading and jumped up.
"Harry! Hermione, Ron! What brings you three here? Oy, George! Get out here! We have visitors!"
George came out of the back room slowly, apparently in the process of adding something, since visible numbers were floating around his head and combining themselves to form higher numbers. When he glanced up and saw his youngest brother and two friends, the numbers disappeared and he hurried towards them, shaking their hands vigorously.
"Nice to see you all here! Bloody hell, Ron, you've grown taller than us!"
"Eh, don't worry, little bro. We'll catch up," said Fred, winking.
Hermione laughed. Harry had a vague recollection of the things he had said and done during their long stay at the shop, except for Hermione constantly asking his opinion for the things she chose, and the heart-melting smiles she gave him whenever he agreed with her. And, of course, he agreed with everything she said.
*****
"Harry! Hello!" said Hermione, dangling their purchases in front of his face.
"Huh?" Harry snapped out of his newest reverie.
"We're going to try out some of the stuff we bought."
"Fred and George wanted us to set off a Weasleys' Wildfire Whiz-Bang in tribute to them," added Ron.
"Are you coming?" asked Hermione.
"Nah," replied Harry, shaking his head.
"Why not? Is something wrong, Harry?" inquired Hermione, her face immediately clouding over with worry.
"No, nothing's wrong," he assured his friends. "I'm just gonna stay here and...think some things over."
After asking if he was sure, Hermione and Ron realized their best friend really did need some time alone and left him hesitantly. In a few minutes' time, loud laughter and squeals could be heard from downstairs, but Harry sank into his usual armchair and gazed into the fire, oblivious to everything but the crackling of the flames.
His latest daydream had included Hermione, of course. However, a new problem had risen: Ron. It was obvious Ron had feelings for Hermione, even from their third and fourth years. But he hadn't done anything, had he? He hadn't gone after Hermione, he hadn't shown that he really, truly cared for her, that he worried about her safety. It had all been Harry; he had saved her from the troll, he had protected her from Professor Lupin when he had transformed into a werewolf in their third year, he had taken her on a ride on Buckbeak, etc. Hadn't he proven himself worthy enough for her?
They were alike in so many ways and rarely fought, unlike her constant squabbles with Ron. They even had a common Muggle background, with him having grown up with his aunt and uncle and her having Muggle parents. Not to mention their future: Harry wanted to become an Auror whereas Hermione wanted to work at the Ministry of Magic. They'd be together almost all the time, unless Harry was traveling.
Harry had grown into a handsome young man and was good at Quidditch and saving peoples' lives; Hermione was good at everything he wasn't, not to mention gorgeous and brilliant. They made the perfect couple. They practically melded into the same person. Couldn't she see that? They were like a jigsaw puzzle just waiting to be put together.
Harry remembered every single time Hermione had thrown her arms around him or kissed his cheek. He recalled all the moments when he had hugged her protectively, or stood up for her whenever Malfoy or the other Slytherins called her names. This was their last year at Hogwarts and Harry couldn't bear the thought of being away from her. He wasn't sure whether Ron loved or fancied Hermione, but he knew this to be a fact: he, Harry, loved Hermione with all his heart. He sighed.
"What am I going to tell Ron?" he muttered to himself, heading up the stairs to his dorm and climbing into bed.
At half past twelve, Ron stepped into the room and shut the door silently behind him. As he was changing into his pajamas and climbing into bed, Harry asked into the darkness, "Ron?”
"Yeah, mate?"
Harry shook his head, then remembered Ron couldn't see him. "Nothing."
"You sure? How come you're not asleep yet?"
"Yeah. I've been thinking this entire time and couldn't fall asleep."
"Do you want to tell me anything?"
Harry changed his answer mid-word. "Ye-no. No, maybe some other time."
"You sure about that, mate?"
"Yes. Goodnight, Ron."
"Night, Harry."
*****
Harry couldn't eat anything the next morning at breakfast, even though he knew he needed to, since he planned on telling Ron about his feelings for Hermione later that day and probably wouldn't be able to eat anything else after that.
"Harry, are you alright?" asked Hermione anxiously, leaning forward and holding the back of her hand against Harry's forehead.
"Yeah, I'm fine."
"Well, you look a little flushed..." said Hermione, sitting back down. Harry smiled inwardly at her concern for his health.
To make her feel better, he nibbled idly on a piece of toast.
"If you're sure... Alright, so what should we do today? Visit Hagrid, maybe?"
Ron mumbled incoherently through his full mouth, spraying bits of bacon everywhere. Hermione looked at him disgustedly, muttering something about "no manners, whatsoever."
He swallowed his mouthful and said, "That's a good idea. We can find out what's up with him and that Maxime woman."
Hermione nodded. "Yeah, and we'll see how Grawp's doing."
As the three of them stood up, Harry said, "Um, Ron... I have to go up to our dormitory for a sec. Will you come with me?"
Ron looked confused. "Why do I need to go?"
"Just come with me, okay?"
Ron agreed and told Hermione they would meet her at Hagrid's hut. The two boys hurried up the stairs, through the Fat Lady's portrait and the Common Room, and stopped when they were in the privacy of their empty dormitory room.
"What do you need, Harry?" asked Ron, looking around.
"Uh... I need..." Harry glanced into his trunk and picked up the item which was at the very top: the leather-covered book filled with photographs of his parents that Hagrid had given him at the end of his first year at Hogwarts. "I need to ask Hagrid who this one bloke is whose in quite a few of the pictures with my dad and mum." Harry was surprised at how quickly the lie came to him.
"Alright, then, let's go," said Ron, heading for the door.
Harry couldn't let this perfect moment go. Then again, exactly what moment was perfect to tell your best friend that you loved the girl he loved? But he knew the quicker he got this over with, the better. "Ron! Wait!"
Ron stopped at the door and turned back. "What is it?"
"I have to tell you something."
"Well... Go ahead."
"You ought to sit down for this..."
Ron, though looking thoroughly confused and slightly worried, obliged.
Harry's voice came out in a high-pitched squeak. "I lo-" He cleared his throat and tried again, setting the photo album down. "IloveHermione," he said in a very fast whisper.
Ron didn't say anything. When Harry looked up, Ron was still gazing at him expectantly.
"What do you have to tell me, Harry?"
Harry sighed, realizing Ron hadn't heard. "I...love...Hermione," he repeated reluctantly, not looking at Ron.
There was a stunned silence, and Harry knew this time his best friend had heard. After a few minutes, Harry broke the silence.
"R-ron?," he said, glancing up at him.
Ron was shaking silently, his face almost as red as his hair. Finally he whispered, "Y-you what?" Not expecting an answer, he continued, "I can't believe you...you love her. Harry, I... I've..." He couldn't bring himself to tell even his best friend his true feelings for Hermione. Suddenly the pained expression he wore was traded in for an angry one as he jumped up. "Harry, I trusted you! I thought you were my best mate! But best mates don't fall in love with the girl that...."
Harry opened his mouth to retort, "You can't even say that you love her! So what am I supposed to do? Sit around and wait until you do? Or go tell her for you? You have to think about my feelings too!" Instead, he could only utter his name over and over. "Ron... Ron, I..."
"You what?!" bellowed Ron, glaring at Harry. "Huh? What?!"
"I'm sorry," whispered Harry.
"Well, that's just great! Being sorry doesn't change a single ruddy thing! You still have feelings for her!”
"Ron, I'm really sorry. Please, just hear me out..."
"No! Get out! Get out of here this bloody instant!"
Harry looked hurt. "Are you sure? Atleast listen to what I have to say..."
"Ha. I don't think so. Go!"
Harry nodded slowly and walked out of the room. Ron slammed the door behind him and kicked it. Harry paused, wondering if he should just go back and tell his best friend that he was kidding, that he just wanted to see how much he really cared for Hermione. But he knew he'd be fooling himself if he did... He had done the right thing, no matter how much it hurt. Suddenly he remembered Hermione must still be waiting at Hagrid's. He ran the entire way to the hut and knocked on the door, out of breath. Hermione let him in, smiling.
"Abou' time yeh got here, Harry! The tea's gettin' cold." Hagrid said, thrusting a cup into Harry's hands. "An' where's yer chum? Ron?"
"Oh, uh... He couldn't make it. He's busy doing...something."
"Eh, I'll talk ter him later." Hagrid motioned to his personal belongings, most of which were stuffed into one large trunk. "Thinkin' abou' visitin' Olympe over the summer."
Hermione grinned. "Just thinking about it?"
Hagrid smiled back. "Nah, we're gettin' married."
"Married!" exclaimed Harry.
Hagrid nodded. "Yep. We decided it was time ter tie the knot. She tol' me ter come down there, bu' I don' wan' ter leave my job. So we decided she was gonna come up here, since Dumbledore doesn' mind havin' ter put up with two half-giants. An' so next year, the pair o' us are gonna be teachin' Care o' Magical Creatures together."
"That's great, Hagrid! I wish we could be here next year though..." said Hermione sadly. "I'm going to miss everyone so much! Dumbledore, the professors, my friends, and not to mention you."
"Aw, tha's sweet, Hermione. I'll miss yeh all ter. Oh! Grawp says hello ter Hermy and Harry."
Hermione laughed. "Well, Hagger, tell Grawp hi back from us. Where is he now, anyway?"
"Oh, he's still in the fores'. Bit mo' controllable now, though..."
By the time they left Hagrid's hut, it was dark outside. Harry cast a sidelong glance at Hermione.
"Hermione..."
"Yes, Harry?"
"I wanted to, er, ask you something."
"Well, go on then. What do you want to ask me?"
"D'you... d'you have any feelings for Ron?"
Hermione stopped walking and studied him. "Why do you ask?"
Harry looked away, flustered. "Er, I, uh... N-no reason, actually, I, uh, I was just asking..."
A small smile was forming on Hermione's face. Harry glanced back up at her.
"So, um, do you?"
"Well, not really, to tell you the truth," answered Hermione slowly. "I mean, I guess I used to, but my feelings for him have been dying out since the end of last year. Why do you want to know?"
This time Harry examined Hermione. After awhile, he brushed a stray strand of hair away from her face gently and smiled. "No reason. Come on. I'm hungry." He started walking back to the castle and realized Hermione wasn't with him. He looked back. "Hermione?"
She jumped, apologized, and hurried to catch up with him, linking her arm with his. The two walked into Hogwarts and went to the Great Hall. The first thing Harry noticed was that Ron wasn't at the Gryffindor table. Apparently, Hermione had too, for she was gripping his arm tighter and looking up and down the table.
"Where's Ron? He didn't come to Hagrid's and now he isn't here for dinner. It's not like him to miss a meal..."
Hermione was right. Harry suggested they go up and see if he wanted them to bring food up for him. Hermione agreed, and while she waited in the Common Room, Harry went up to their dormitory and let himself in quietly. Ron was sitting at the edge of his bed, staring out the window glumly. His face hardened when he saw Harry.
"Ron, it's time for dinner. Are you coming down?"
He didn't answer.
"Well, do you want me to bring something up for you?"
Still no response.
"Um, Hagrid wants you to stop by his hut sometime before the year is out. And he and Madam Maxime are going to get married this summer. And Grawp is still here, still in the Forbidden Forest. Those are basically all the highlights of what happened at Hagrid's. Are you sure you don't want to come eat something?"
Ron grunted. "No."
Atleast he was speaking to him again. Harry knew better than to make him even more annoyed and left the room, telling Hermione Ron was busy thinking about some things. Hermione hesitantly accepted his answer, mumbling something about how odd it was because the two of them were suddenly needing time alone more than she did.
After dinner was over and Hermione and Harry had parted ways with a hug and a quick kiss on the cheek, he left a piece of apple pie on Ron's night stand and climbed into his own bed. He could tell Ron wasn't asleep, and was probably hungry. He felt bad for causing Ron enough pain to miss an entire meal. Two, for all he knew. He and Hermione had had lunch with Hagrid in his hut. Harry thought it was pretty romantic, even though Hagrid was there, chomping and slurping away.
*****
When Harry stumbled into the Common Room the next day, he found Hermione and Ron sitting together, talking in hushed tones. Hermione jumped up when she saw Harry and threw herself onto him.
"Morning, Harry! Guess what; my parents owled me this morning, saying that I would have to stay at the Burrow for the summer. I mean, it was their first owl and all, and I'm glad it got through alright, but I'm just so happy I don't have to go back to the Muggle world so soon." She paused for a quick breath. "I don't believe I've quite accepted the fact that school will be over in just a couple more days. Ron sent Pig off with a letter, informing Mr. and Mrs. Weasley that I'll be staying with them, but he doesn't think they'll mind. But, Harry, you will come, won't you? I mean..." She broke off again, this time looking away shyly. "I will see you again, won't I? Oh, Harry, I'm going to miss you so much! I don't know what I'll do without you. I've grown so attached to you. Ron, too, but I'll be staying with him." She wrapped her arms around him again tightly.
As much as Harry loved feeling Hermione's body so close to his own, Ron was fiercely studying the carpet by the fireplace, so he reluctantly peeled Hermione off.
"Calm down, Hermione, we still have two whole days together. And I'm pretty sure the Durselys wouldn't mind me not going home to them this summer, but..." Harry faltered, glancing over at Ron, who pretended he hadn't heard their conversation.
Hermione didn't seem to catch on to the tenseness between her two best friends and pressed on. "But...?"
"But nothing. Now, come on, let's get a bite to eat." He took her by the hand and dragged her after him, stopping next to Ron. "Come on, I know you're starving too." Harry grabbed Ron's arm and pulled him up. Ron, surprisingly, didn't draw back, but he did slip his arm free of Harry's grasp and guided the way down to the Great Hall. After breakfast, which was one of the most quiet ones they'd ever had together, the three friends stood around, not sure of what to do.
"How about we go play Quidditch? I'd love to go fly around one last time." Harry glanced at Hermione. "And, this time, you're going to play too."
Hermione's eyes widened. "What? No way."
"Oh, come on, it'll be a blast," said Harry with a mischievous grin. "I've never seen you fly."
"I don't know..." replied Hermione uncertainly. But Harry knew she had already given in.
"Well, I'm going to get our brooms. You can ride Ginny's," Harry told her.
Ron, who had been observing the two of them the entire time, said quickly, "No, it's alright. I'll go get the brooms. You two wait here." He hurried off before anybody could protest.
As Harry watched Ron's retreating figure hasten away, he noticed, through the corner of his eye, Hermione studying him. He looked at her full-on, and she quickly focused her gaze elsewhere. He bit back a smile.
"Is there anything on my face, Hermione?"
"Hmm? Oh, no, nothing. It's...it's perfect," she whispered, still not looking at him.
A corner of Harry's mouth lifted. Hermione had never been this quiet and shy around him before. Could she possibly feel what he felt for her? They didn't speak until Ron returned with the brooms and were contemplating their positions on the Quidditch field.
"I'll be Keeper and you can be Chaser," Harry said to Hermione. He turned to Ron. "And I guess you'll be Seeker, then."
"Actually... I'd like to be Seeker," Hermione told them.
Ron shrugged and left silently to retrieve the Quaffle, Snitch, and a club. When he returned, the game was launched smoothly. Hermione turned out to be a fantastic Seeker, catching the Snitch within half an hour both rounds they played, and the tides had turned: Ron was speaking to Harry again. Harry hadn't even noticed when, but he was grateful enough not to ask.
"-But you almost fell off the broom!" exclaimed Ron, laughing.
"Atleast I caught the Snitch faster than you made three goals, didn't I, Harry?" Hermione turned to look at Harry, who was trudging along behind them quietly.
"Hmm? Oh, yeah." Harry smiled and nodded, but it was obvious he hadn't heard what they were saying.
Finally, Ron said, "You go on, Hermione. Harry and I'll catch up with you later."
Hermione knew something was wrong, and was smart enough not to ask. When she left, Ron cleared his throat several times and glanced away from Harry.
"I'm sorry," he mumbled.
"It's okay," Harry told him.
"No, it's not. I shouldn't have gotten so angry with you."
"Anybody would have."
"But I'm not anybody. I'm your best mate, and I apologize." He paused. "I just wanted to tell you that... you should go for it."
Harry's head snapped up. "What?"
Ron nodded. "Yeah. I've realized I don't fancy her anymore. I mean, I used to, and I know she did too, but something went wrong, and I don't think either of us know exactly what. So I've been thinking... you guys are perfect for each other. You should go and get her before it's too late."
Harry looked at Ron's smiling face. "Really?"
"Yes," replied Ron, nodding again. "Tomorrow's our last full day here, so you should do whatever you need to by then."
With Ron's friendship and added approval in place, Harry was already deep in thought about the next day.
*****
Lunch, the next afternoon, was filled with Neville's endless chattering about the big celebration his grandmother was going to throw upon his arrival back home. The second he quieted down and turned his attention to Dean and Seamus, Ron kicked Harry's leg under the table and motioned towards Hermione.
"Ow, that hurt!"
Hermione looked up at Harry. "What? Is something wrong?"
"No, but, er..." He took a deep breath before continuing. "Do you think you can meet me at the tree by the lake at 6:30?"
"Well, dinner's at 7:00 tonight, but I guess that's fine. I should be able to make it by then. You see, Lavender and Parvati wanted to have a small, girls-only graduation party in our dormitory." She turned to the redhead steadily stuffing his face beside her. "What about you, Ron? Will you be able to make it?"
Harry quickly interrupted, "Actually, I'm just asking you. Ron's not coming."
Ron swallowed his mouthful of food and caught Harry's eye before saying, "Yeah, I've still got to visit Hagrid before the graduation dinner, and that's the only free time I'll have."
"Oh," said Hermione, nibbling on her lower lip.
Harry could tell she was trying not to grin. Perhaps the thought of meeting Harry alone excited her as much as it did him.
*****
It began raining when Harry trudged out to the tree the Golden Trio had spent countless hours laughing, studying, and pondering the answers to various types of problems under, and it was pouring by the time Hermione arrived.
Harry grinned. "Glad you could make it."
"No problem. This rain is a bit annoying, though."
Harry pulled her directly under the tree where the rain wasn't coming down as hard and looked down at her. "This better?"
Hermione nodded. "Yes, a bit. So...what did you want to tell me, Harry?"
The time to let Hermione know his true feelings had come, but Harry wasn't sure how to express them. "Er... Okay, you see, Hermione..."
Hermione gazed up at him intently. "Yes?"
Harry sighed. "I don't know how to say this, Hermione, so I'm just going to come out with it...I love you. I have from the moment I realized what love truly is. I tried to show it to you in so many ways, but then I found out you and Ron fancied each other. I was crushed, Hermione, but since you two are my best friends, I tried to drown my feelings for you and let things work out how they were supposed to. I tried, but it didn't work." Harry took Hermione's hands in his. "You were all I could think about. I didn't even care if you fancied me back or not. All those affectionate gestures, your laughter, your hugs, your kisses on the cheek... That's what kept my feelings going. That’s what kept me going.” He paused, tenderly reaching out to brush away a strand of wet hair plastered to her cheek. “I couldn’t stand the thought of being without you after Hogwarts, so I knew I had to tell you, no matter what the consequences. But I thought I owed it to Ron to atleast let him know, and it turns out he’s okay with it. And now...” It felt as though all of his emotions, along with his heart, were gushing out of his mouth. He sighed again and looked into Hermione’s eyes almost pleadingly. “Don’t you see, Hermione? We’re perfect for each other, and--”
Hermione had thrown herself onto Harry, hugging him tightly, the side of her face pressed against his chest as she held on to him as though her life depended on it, sobbing and mumbling incoherently. “I do see...Harry, I do...I love you, too...goodness, if I had...oh, Harry...you don’t know how... I love you so much...I can’t believe...”
Harry gently pulled Hermione back, looking into her tear-filled eyes searchingly, as if he was unwilling, or even scared, to believe it was all true, that she truly did love him back.
But then Hermione went up on her tippy-toes, one hand behind Harry’s head, and pressed her lips against his. Harry shuddered at the contact and closed his eyes, losing himself in the moment. After awhile, Hermione pulled back, smiling up at him.
“I really do love you, Harry,” she said, in response to his unspoken question. “I do.”
Relieved that Hermione was, indeed, being completely sincere, a grin broke out on Harry’s face. He pulled her close and drew her into a deep, slow kiss, neither noticing that the rain had stopped and two iridescent rainbows had appeared in the brilliant blue sky.
End