Chapter 10
A/N- This chap is over double the length of last chap :D Let's see, what to say...well I recently read Ready Player One by Ernest Cline. It was awesome. I then had to go online and listen to 'Dancing with Myself' by Billy Idol quite a bit. And lots of other 80s music. The music video to 'Dancing with Myself' is almost as weird and bizarre as 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' by Bonnie Tyler. Seriously, if you've never seen it go watch it. It's got like nothing to do with the song whatsoever.
I would like to apologize to Monty Python fans if a song gets into your head because of a word in the third to last paragraph. I'm not sorry but I apologize if you randomly start singing/chanting and drawing weird gazes.
Hermione woke the next morning feeling very at peace. She sighed, content. Harry's scar having been vanquished was the most important thing to her because it had harmed him so much. And finally, Harry was free. She glanced at Harry, sleeping peacefully with a smile on his face. A gentle peck on the lips and she gathered her things to take a shower. Before, Harry always knew when she got up. It was like whatever darkness was in the scar was just waiting to pounce as soon as she left. But this morning Harry merely smiled and shifted to snuggle the blankets of the bed, still asleep and dreaming. She grinned and entered the bathroom, shutting the door quietly so she wouldn't disturb him.
When she exited the bathroom twenty minutes later Harry was just waking up. He stretched, "Morning Hermione."
"Good morning Harry," she smiled. "Sleep well?"
"Very well," he nodded, sitting up in bed. "Hey Hermione, what about Remus?"
"What about him?"
"Well, in Britain werewolves are reviled and treated horribly. Here they're treated as any other citizen. Why didn't he just leave Britain?"
"A good question Harry," Hermione nodded. "I suspect the answer is the same as the one about why Remus Lupin was allowed to attend Hogwarts."
"Dumbledore," Harry said. "The bastard." Hermione gave him a sad smile and sat on the bed. "Guess that's not surprising."
"Not given what we know about the old man," Hermione agreed. "Go take a shower love."
Harry smiled and leaned in to kiss her, "I love you."
"I love you too," she pulled away before he could deepen the kiss, "go shower. We need breakfast."
"Yes dear," he said, getting up and getting his clothes.
At breakfast Harry offered up his question about Remus to Sirius, who looked pensive, "Remus has always worshipped Dumbledore. He's the man who let him have an education, who let him be a prefect despite his 'condition'. Remus feels indebted to the old fool." He leaned back in his chair, "You two probably don't know this since you weren't raised in the magical world but we grew up with the notion that werewolves were dangerous, evil creatures. If someone you knew became one you weren't supposed to be friends with them. That was why people were so surprised that James and I were friends with a werewolf. There were lots of complaints about Lupin attending Hogwarts. Dumbledore and Remus couldn't keep it quiet. Parents were outraged he'd be in the dorm with their children. Remus had his own bedroom and bathroom in Gryffindor tower as a result."
"But he almost killed Snape. Surely that would have upset the parents?"
"Yeah but since Snape was a half-blood people didn't care," Sirius shrugged, "now if it had been Lucius Malfoy or even myself or James who had nearly been killed by Remus you can believe the ministry would have arrested him and had him killed. But half-bloods aren't purebloods and they're consequently not as important. Much like why the ministry ignored a basilisk roaming Hogwarts' halls attacking students."
"So glad we're not there anymore," Harry said, squeezing Hermione's hand.
"Agreed."
"After we graduated the Wolfsbane potion came out. Every werewolf registered had to take it. Those that refused were forced or exiled."
"But why not leave England and the ICW?"
"Rumors were spread that there were werewolf bounty hunters in savage nations like Spain and Italy," Sirius answered, "that these bounty hunters killed werewolves and were paid to do it."
"So as horrible as Britain treated them, it was better than certain death abroad," Hermione said.
"Exactly," Sirius nodded. "They've pretty masterfully worked out how to keep the power they have over their citizens."
"They are masters of isolation," Daniela agreed. "Magical Britain excludes itself from European Union (EU) laws by refusing to associate with non-magicals, preferring the ICW instead. We use the EU and each country has a magical representative as well as a non-magical one. There are specific rules about travel between countries and immigration; rules that the ICW doesn't follow."
"So while we can go to Italy, Greece, Portugal or Belgium freely, magical British citizens can't?" Emma asked.
"That's correct," Daniela nodded. "The ICW will permit them to go to other ICW countries but the xenophobia within magical Britain is very strong so they prefer to stay isolated, going abroad only for work."
"And very few do that thanks to their obsession with blood status," Hermione said.
"They've dug themselves alot of deep holes," Harry mused.
"There's a reason dark lords target Britain, and it's not just that they're more often than not British," Daniela said.
"The population is easier to control because of how isolated it is," Dan said.
"Indeed," Daniela gazed at Sirius, "this Remus is a friend of yours so why haven't I heard of him until now?"
"Remus thinks Dumbledore is the greatest wizard to ever live," Sirius sighed, "and I knew he would never hear a word against him. He never went to check up on Harry because Dumbledore told him that Harry was 'in hiding' to protect him from dark wizards."
"Is that what he calls living in a cupboard under the stairs?" Harry asked. Hermione immediately wrapped her arms around him. Harry leaned into her embrace.
Sirius rubbed his face, "Harry I am so sorry that I wasn't there to protect you."
"I'm not mad at you Sirius," Harry said. "I don't think it's worthwhile to be angry at you. You're here for me now and got us out of Britain, even protecting Hermione's parents because you know how important she is to me and that they'd be used against us to try and control me. You went to Katabisi to find help for my scar and now I'm scar-free."
"Plus you and I arranged for Dumbledore to suffer the hate mail directed toward Harry," Hermione smiled evilly. Sirius chuckled at that.
Hermione sat in the garden, thinking. Sirius and Harry were off to their mental health counselors (Harry's first visit, Sirius' third) and with Daniela at work and her parents out getting her and Harry some school clothes (no wizard robes were worn in Spain, which was a blessing) and basic supplies (notebook paper, pens, pencils, etc.) she was for once home alone. It was her first real solitary moment since they'd fled Britain, and Hermione was using it to think.
Her relationship with her parents had never been better. It felt like there was finally real understanding between them now. No longer was Hermione straddling two worlds; it was all just one. She presumed that was how magical Britain tried to keep the muggleborns out; family or magic was an option for them that had to be addressed and most probably chose their family where they were included rather than an exclusive magical world. Her parents were very excited about the new school; during their tour they'd even met their future teachers. She'd finally been able to show her parents her magic and it felt good for them to be able to see what she'd learned.
Sirius and she had a more complicated relationship. She could see how much it hurt Sirius that he'd betrayed Harry and Harry's parents by putting vengeance ahead of Harry. And he was obviously taking his guardianship seriously (pun not intended) so she had to just let the past go. She was still angry at the Dursleys and Dumbledore but since they were safe from both and Harry couldn't be hurt by either one again she was willing to let that go too.
Daniela was very interesting to talk to and she felt they'd all be lost without the Spanish witch. Between her and the vampire Raphael each and every question they had was answered as they all five adjusted to life in a completely different country and culture. And she was great for Sirius. The effort she'd put into destroying Harry's scar as quickly as possible was amazing.
Then there was Harry. She knew Harry appreciated her, and certainly he was aware he wasn't exactly the easiest person to be in a relationship with. But she still felt that most of the responsibility for their relationship rested on her shoulders. Harry was incredibly insecure when it came to whether he was a good boyfriend. Constantly reassuring him he was was taxing, not to mention that she was afraid to mention anything Harry was doing wrong or that she didn't like lest he freak out about it.
What made Harry such an issue was that she really loved him. She knew it. She'd known it since the previous year. But Harry sometimes just seemed too broken. Sometimes she just wanted to break down crying and have him be the strong one, hold her and assure her everything was going to be okay. That just couldn't happen. He needed Hermione to be the strong one all the time. Harry's lack of self-confidence did not help matters at all.
And there was the concern that Harry might not actually love her; she knew she'd stopped his scar from hurting him but did that mean he loved her or that she was like a stuffed teddy bear or a safety blanket to him? Physical attraction did not mean he loved her. There was also the fact that Harry didn't really know what love was; his first experience of love from anyone was Hermione's love for him. She knew he'd die for her. Harry was that kind of guy. Leaping on a troll's back to save a girl he hardly knew proved that. He said he loved her but given Harry didn't know what love was until she'd explained it to him had her unsure if he meant it. Or if he meant it as she meant it.
She sighed and rubbed her face. She'd drive herself crazy trying to figure out Harry's emotions. Unfortunately talking to him wasn't an option. Subtlety was lost on him and she couldn't bring herself to be direct with him. Not about their relationship or her, at least. Harry always leapt to the wrong conclusions about things he was nervous about or afraid of. He wasn't one to think before he leapt either, which was another reason.
"It's not easy being Harry Potter's girlfriend, is it?"
She looked to see Daniela leaning against the door into the house. "It has its downsides," Hermione admitted. Why Hermione admitted this was rather simple. She needed to talk to someone and she knew that. But her parents knew her far better than they knew Harry, Sirius wasn't an option, and she had no one else. Maybe Winky but she was often busy dealing with Dobby and Raffy not to mention Hermione didn't know the elf all that well. Daniela was her only option.
She felt a connection to the young curse-breaker. As Harry pointed out, she and Daniela were quite similar in intellect and personality. Daniela sat down next to her, "Do you want to talk? I'm quite good at keeping secrets."
Hermione smiled weakly. "Are you here alone?"
"The bank has decided to give me a week off after helping one of their biggest and best clients," she said. "And I did check. Winky said only you were here."
Hermione took a deep breath, "I love Harry more than anything. It feels like our relationship was sort of forged in fire, you know? Danger followed him everywhere in Hogwarts. And we were always in it together. We got closer and for me…well I started to fall for him last year. Harry was oblivious, of course. I didn't know then that he…how he was raised. He would never talk about his home life."
"When did he finally tell you?"
"Shortly before the task," she said. "I was furious. That he didn't tell me, that anyone could do that to a little boy. But it just made me fall for him more because while he's not exactly well-adjusted, he's not as bad off as I would expect knowing about his past."
Daniela slipped an arm around Hermione and pulled her into a hug, "Tell me what's got you upset then."
And Hermione did. She felt a kinship with Daniela that had her telling her all about her worries and fears and the weight on her shoulders and how much it hurt carrying the burdens and responsibility. Daniela just held her and listened, not saying a word. It was obvious Hermione needed to unload, and she liked and respected the teen very much. After telling her everything about her relationship with Harry that was bothering her Hermione curled into herself. Daniela stayed silent for a bit longer, making sure that she said the right thing. "That boy loves you. I can see that plain as day. I saw it in that room with the amplification spells. That was a room of love, Hermione. And Harry loved you back. Loves you back. Maybe he's not the most articulate boy or the most demonstrative about it but if he were then I'd be amazed, especially given his history. Not that your worries are without reason," she added, "because they are and I understand them. I think his self-confidence will grow now that he's in a loving home with Sirius and your parents here for emotional support and encouragement. He might not ever be well-adjusted, but I think he'll try harder than others. Because he loves you and wants you to be happy."
"I just want to not always have to be the rock," she whispered.
"I think if you tell him that, Harry will understand. And if he doesn't get it right away, you always seem to be able to explain things to him. Plus he has other people he can ask for relationship help, not just you."
Hermione nodded. "Thanks Daniela."
"Anytime," she hugged her, "so you play futból, yes? How is your keepy-up?"
Hermione pulled back and smiled, "I'm pretty good. I could go the longest out of anyone on my team."
"I played in school as well. Quidditch is too violent for my tastes and my two brothers and I would have keepy-up tournaments."
"How do you know that term?"
"We had a classmate whose father was an English muggle and her mother was Spanish," she answered, "and she taught us the English terms. So how about a round?"
"Sure. So long as Harry can't see. I don't want him to know how good I am. Sort of a surprise."
Daniela smiled, "Let's play then. Best out of three after a round of practice."
"Sounds fair," Hermione nodded, standing and moving to get her footy boots. When she was a very small girl her dad had amazed her at keepy-up. The way the ball could be moved fascinated a five year old Hermione. Since then she'd worked at her skills. Every striker and forward she had seen moved the ball like it was an extension of their body both in practice and in the game and Hermione was always one to give her all to everything she did. You didn't punish the ball; you caressed it. Controlling the power of your foot was key to controlling the ball. Keepy-up was about your relationship with the ball and the ball was the best friend of the striker. And until she had met Harry, the ball had been her very best friend.
Harry left his first appointment with his therapist feeling pretty good. The one thing the vampire had focused on was actually Hermione. While Harry knew it wasn't easy being his rock, he hadn't really given much thought to how she might have her own problems going on with their relationship. Maybe it was that Hermione had this sort of mask of perfection, but Harry hadn't really ever considered she'd be insecure or anything like that. And that made him feel like a bit of a jerk. After the therapist Harry went to the store. He'd show Hermione how he felt about her.
When Harry and Sirius returned to the house Harry immediately went in search of Hermione, barely saying hello to Daniela and the Grangers. He found her where you could almost always find her; in the library. He smiled and entered the room, his hands behind his back. "Hello love," he smiled.
"Harry," she sat up on the couch and put her book aside, "how was your therapy?"
"Good," he moved closer to her, "I got you these," he offered up a bouquet of roses.
Hermione gazed at them, "What's the occasion?"
"I love you and I don't show you that enough," Harry answered, "But the book is for the latter. The flowers are just because I love you," he smiled, his other hand moving out to reveal a rare book she'd been wanting.
Hermione smiled and got up, closing the distance between them and kissing him. "I love you too Harry. Thank you."
"The florist said that red roses were for love so I thought that was the best choice," he smiled as she kissed him again. "I did well?"
"You did very well," she said, hugging him. "They're beautiful." His smile grew. She pulled him to the couch and sat with her legs in his lap, "Tell me about your day."
"It was good. He says I should watch how people interact and not feel bad about it. He's really nice." She smiled and leaned into him, "How was your day?"
"Pretty okay," she said. "I kind of broke down talking to Daniela."
Immediately Harry's arms pulled her into his lap properly and he held onto her comfortingly, "About me?"
"Sort of," she admitted, snuggling into him, "Harry I love you. But I can't always be the strong one because I'm just not always that strong."
"I know," Harry whispered, "I'm probably not going to be good at reading those situations Hermione. You might have to tell me. But I promise to be supportive and strong when you need me."
"Thank you," she whispered, "and you just read this situation perfectly Harry. Don't doubt yourself so much. You have good instincts." Harry nodded and just held onto his girlfriend. She needed him to hold her and that was what he was going to do. "Harry I get insecure just like you do. So gifts like the flowers really mean alot to me because you're not the most demonstrative boyfriend; I'm usually the one that instigates things like holding hands and little touches and kisses."
"I'll work on it Hermione," he promised. "I heard somewhere that boyfriends get snogged if they bring their girlfriends flowers."
Hermione chuckled at his lack of subtlety before gently kissing him, "I think that's doable." Harry grinned into the kiss. He was still learning but given Hermione's reactions, he was off to a good start.
Dumbledore rubbed his face. It was difficult, trying to contact Harry Potter. An in-person visit was the best idea but somehow Remus had blown it. Hagrid would fair no better so he wasn't an option. No one else was in a position that Harry would listen to them. He pinched the bridge of his nose. There was no hope for Britain without the teen but thanks to Harry's actions, no one would believe Dumbledore if he said it.
Luna Lovegood walked to class in her school uniform. Nothing had been stolen from her since after the Yule Ball when Viktor and Fleur had intimidated her bullies. All of her things had been returned to her and she found her life at Hogwarts was greatly improved. Of course, Ronald Weasley's life was even worse than hers had been. He was the whipping dog of Gryffindor. The teachers didn't try to stamp it out.
Neville was doing better than before, sort of. He had stood up to his house and he'd found himself targeted by them as a result. But Neville had gone to McGonagall about the bullying and been transferred to Hufflepuff. Hufflepuff was much nicer than Gryffindor, and Neville found himself primarily ignored in his new house. That suited him just fine. He was ignored by the two champions too (Cedric was still in the hospital) but he chalked that up to life as usual. They had protected Luna but other than that both stayed to themselves.
Life at Hogwarts still carried the whispers of the status of its fallen Champion, Cedric Diggory. Those whispers became joyful murmurs when it was discovered on January 5th that Cedric had been sent home from St. Mungo's. Ten days later, on January 15th, Cedric Diggory returned to Hogwarts. He had two prosthetic legs and two prosthetic arms, his face was heavily scarred, and he was still hairless. But for Hufflepuff, it was a joyous day. Neville clapped with everyone else as Cedric made his way to the table. Magic meant that prosthetics moved as well as a person's natural body parts, and they'd come a long way from Mad Eye Moody's peg-leg and magical eye. Thanks to some high-level transfiguration they looked fairly natural. He'd kept both of his eyes which was quite the miracle. He had a magical hearing aid in his left ear but his right worked well still. Cedric walked a little slower, but he entered with Cho on his arm, the dark-haired Ravenclaw sitting down at the Hufflepuff table to help him eat breakfast. He was incredibly pale; he'd be easily mistaken for a vampire. What little visible skin he had was blotchy.
While everyone was glad Cedric was back it was a disturbing reminder of what the dragon had done to him and what they'd witnessed that day. Most girls would shudder and look away quickly when they saw him. The boys would grimace and shake their heads. Viktor and Fleur exchanged a glance and silently prayed they'd make their way through the tournament alive. They'd deduced the next task would be in the lake and they'd be diving to rescue someone, though they didn't know who. Fleur was not pleased, as Veela and icy water did not go together. They were working on a way to overcome her problem as a result.
The morning of January 15th was a good one, mostly, for Hogwarts. For those inhabiting Potter Estate in Spain, it was an excellent one. Harry and Hermione sat at breakfast, dressed for school and feeling rather excited. It was a new school but they'd met all their teachers already and they were prepared for their classes. The Grangers were going to drive them to school. The two dentists were still working out their own futures since they were staying in Spain for good, and were taking their time as Harry had insisted that they all remain at Potter Estate. For most boys it would be because they wanted to be near their girlfriend; admittedly Harry didn't want to live without Hermione but he really liked Dan and Emma, and they included him in their family so graciously.
The trip to the school was about twenty minutes by car. When they arrived they said goodbye to the Grangers and, taking a deep breath and sharing a smile, the teens entered Vogora, School of the Arcane, for the first time as students.
Classes at Vogora were both magical and non-magical. Potions class was actually a double class- Potions and Chemistry. Care of Magical Creatures was combined with Biology and Herbology combined with Environmental Science. Astronomy included the disciplines of both magical and non-magical as they shared the same name. History was both magical and non-magical and there was an optional course on World History that again covered both cultures. Runes stood alone as did Charms and Transfiguration, but Arithmancy was in the math department with a little bit of everything thrown in. Defense Against the Dark Arts was perhaps the most different. It was a self-defense class in which each student was expected to study a martial art on top of learning the magical spells and whatnot to survive.
There were also language courses, including Spanish, Italian, English, Portuguese, Latin, Japanese, Mermish, Gobbledegook, and even Troll. The three Spanish schools were not filled with just Spanish students. Vogora was, as the most modern school, also the school that had the largest array of students from surrounding countries, Northern Africa, and the Mediterranean islands. They filled the school with many different cultures and languages. As a result the school used English as its common language, though most of the students spoke Spanish and the other two schools' primary language was Spanish.
Harry and Hermione both signed up for Spanish class on top of the typical courses of Potions, Herbology, Charms, Transfiguration, Astronomy, History, and DADA (both chose the Brazilian martial art Capoeira). Hermione added Arithmancy, Runes, and Care of Magical Creatures just as she had at Hogwarts while Harry took Arithmancy for the first time but resumed CoMC. Divination, much to his relief, was not available. He had talked to Raphael about what different jobs looked for and at the vampire's suggestion, he also signed up for Ancient Studies. It was a course that Raphael said would give Harry a wide career path with many options and it was all about magic in the ancient world; the magic of the Ancient Egyptians, Mayans, Aztecs, and more.
The school day was very pleasant for Harry. He and Hermione were seen as refugees by staff and students alike, and so help was constantly offered to the couple. News that Harry played Quidditch and Hermione played futból had the captain of the girls' team and the captains of both the boy and co-ed Quidditch teams approaching them at lunchtime. "Hola," the young woman said, smiling at Hermione, "I'm Carolina. The rumors say you play futból?"
Hermione nodded, trying not to laugh. That hadn't been quiet for long. "I'm Hermione and I'm a striker."
Carolina's eyes lit up and she looked at Harry, "Sorry but I need to steal your girlfriend away."
Hermione kissed Harry on the cheek, "I'll see you in a little bit love."
"Okay," he said, slightly distracted by the two boys arguing over who would talk to him first.
Carolina spoke once they had walked away from the crowded lunch area, "Are you good? We need a good striker."
"I haven't played in a proper team for awhile but I can still move the ball and score," Hermione answered. "I played in a team until I went to Hogwarts."
Carolina licked her lips, "After school we have practice. You can try out if you want. Since we play one game a month but skip December we've only played three games. We could move up the table if you can score us goals. Our defense is really good this year but scoring is a problem. Our best striker graduated last year."
"I would love to play again. I didn't have much hope I'd make the team coming in mid-term."
Carolina grinned, "Hermione if you can score on me then we're off to a good start. I haven't let a goal in yet this year. I'm our keeper."
"I'm always up for a challenge Carolina," Hermione laughed. "I just don't want Harry to see me try out. I'm trying to keep him in the dark until I play my first game."
"A woman of mystery eh? We'll make sure to keep Harry out of the practice."
Harry was rather amused watching the two captains argue. But he wanted to eat his lunch and so he asked, "So what are your names?"
"I'm Eduardo," the shorter, broader boy said, "I'm the captain of the boys' team."
"And I'm Adrián," the taller boy said, "I'm the captain of the co-ed team."
"We heard you play quidditch and we wanted to know what position," Eduardo said.
"Seeker," Harry answered.
"Perfect," Adrián grinned. "We could use a new seeker."
"So could we," Eduardo said, glaring at the other boy.
"Actually," Harry interrupted, "I'm used to playing on a co-ed team so I think if I had to choose that'd be my choice."
Eduardo frowned but Adrián gave him a grin. "Thank you Harry." The other boy walked away and Adrián explained, "The best players usually choose the all-boy team or the all-girl team. Our team isn't as good."
"How many games have you played so far?"
"We lost the first four," Adrián admitted. "But we have alot of spirit. I'm the keeper. Our fifth is in a week. Think we can get you up to speed in time?"
"Definitely," Harry nodded. "I know how to fly on a broom."
"We practice after school. The girls' futból team does too so you won't miss your girlfriend."
Harry smiled at that. "I guess we'll have to get word to her parents to come after practice then," he said.
Carolina was a sixth year student, and Hermione spent the rest of her lunch talking to the older girl about the school, professors, and of course the team and games. "We have a sort of friendly-rivalry with the boys," she said. "Quidditch is the hostile rivalry. Personally, I like the co-ed team."
"Why?"
"My little sister is a chaser," she smiled. "The girls' team didn't want her. They just need an excellent seeker and then they'll compete."
"If they get my Harry then they'll be set," Hermione smiled.
"He's that good?"
"Youngest seeker in a century at Hogwarts," Hermione nodded.
Carolina grinned, "I'm so glad you came to this school."
Hermione's tryout that afternoon consisted of dribbling exercises, the ball being crossed to her in the box, free kicks, and finally a single penalty kick against Carolina. She scored. A grinning Carolina informed her she was on the team and after that Hermione got to know the other girls as she found herself the new first choice striker in a 4-4-1-1 lineup.
Harry's tryout was with golf balls and he was granted the position of first-choice seeker. After that came the actual practice, which Harry enjoyed. Being on his Firebolt was always fun, but especially so playing again. He'd been relieved that Hermione didn't mind him playing Quidditch. He loved it.
Voldemort sat with his can of SPAM by a fire in the mouth of a cave they'd found. Killing people was easy. Surviving, not so much. He was hindered by his two loyal servants who were more useless than they appeared. Barty at least was an adept pickpocket. Pettigrew's constant twitching was irritating. "What's our next move, my lord?"
"I'm thinking about it," Voldemort said, glaring at Pettigrew who whimpered and picked at his dried fruit mix. This was not the return he'd envisioned.
Draco Malfoy opened the letter from the Office of the Minister of Magic. A few seconds later a scowling Draco slammed it into the table. The minister had offered his condolences but assured him that his mother was in fact quite guilty as she was the only person there when the aurors had arrived. He wished Draco well and that was that. Draco rubbed his face in his hands. His mother was innocent. What the devil was he supposed to do to help her?
Chapter 11
Last Week of January-
Hermione could hear the shouting and she knew the voices well enough to know that it was her father and her boyfriend carrying on in the stands as she caught a long ball pass from Lara (right midfielder) with her body and tore off toward the goal, defenders trying to catch up with her.
She was focused and not worried in the least as they tried to increase their pace. She had endurance training on her side. She wouldn't be caught. Between the Gryffindor Common Room and the library in Hogwarts there were three staircases. That was the direct route. In total there were 68 steps. But the staircases never gave you the direct route. Meaning Hermione would go down five or six staircases and then up seven or even ten on her way back. It was better exercise than she'd expected she'd get at Hogwarts. And it had prepared her for this.
She entered the box and feinted right, sending the goalkeeper that way before smashing the ball into the upper left corner of the net. Just twelve minutes into her first game for Real Vogora (the two school teams took their names from the two teams of Madrid, Real Madrid and Atletíco Madrid; the boys team had claimed Atletíco years ago, which suited the girls just fine as they went with Real), she had scored. And against Gluserra's [all-male] best team (or at least that's what Carolina had said) Deportivo Gluserra. Harry, Sirius, and her dad were visible and jumping up and down yelling her name. Her mother and Daniela were only slightly more reserved; they were standing and cheering but not jumping.
She grinned and gave them a wave as her teammates ran to her. It was a new experience, playing in front of an entire stadium instead of in a park with less than a hundred spectators. She could get used to it.
In the twenty-sixth minute Hermione backheeled the ball to a teammate on the left who scored, making it 2-0. Carolina had made it clear that she wanted Hermione to focus on scoring but while she was the striker, and selfishness in front of goal was a given trait, she wanted her teammates to have a shot too. The boys were a bit timid around them, especially when it came to tackling, and Hermione intended to use that to her advantage. Harry, Sirius, and her dad were again off their feet yelling Hermione's name. She wanted to roll her eyes at their antics but it was sweet, seeing them so pumped up and supportive.
In the thirty-third minute she scored again to make it 3-0. It was a cross from Lara on the right that she got her head to, sending it just out of the keeper's reach. She nearly landed on a defender but stayed on her feet and ran for the sidelines to celebrate with the singing fans. Hermione had missed playing while she was in Hogwarts. This was better than she'd imagined it could be.
When they entered the stadium after half-time she waved at Harry, who grinned at her in response. To raise revenue for the care of the stadium, equipment, and team kits each team sold kits with the students' names and numbers on the back to the public at large. It was obvious that her little cheering section had gone shopping. She smiled at the support.
Carolina gave her the look and Hermione wanted to roll her eyes. What striker didn't want the hat trick? A few jumps and rolls of the shoulders and Hermione was ready for the second half to start.
Whether the rest of her team was was up for debate as the boys nearly scored twice in the first ten minutes of the half. Hermione watched from the half-way line as the defenders had to scramble to deflect the first shot and then Carolina saved the second, just barely managing to push the ball behind for a corner. Hermione moved about halfway into her half and waved at Carolina to let her know where she was.
It proved fortuitous as Carolina punched the ball out of the box and toward Hermione, who ran, caught the ball with her thigh, and then promptly embarrassed the two defenders between her and the goal who had been standing near the half-way line as she nutmegged one as she ran by. The keeper was ready to move when she got halfway to his box and came rushing out. Waiting until the last minute was her only chance and just as he came sliding toward the ball she chipped him, the ball sailing over his head and into the net. She had just enough time to jump over the keeper to avoid injury and watch as the net plumed when the ball hit it. She could hear her name being chanted and looked to see Harry and her dad leading their section in singing her name. She'd not thought Harry would be quite so like her dad when it came to her playing sports but it was very cute.
Her teammates jumped on her. Bringing her back to the game. The score was 4-0 and they had thirty minutes left to play. But it was over. The first two goals had crippled the opposing team and the last two just sealed the deal.
She played the full ninety minutes, though no one else scored despite her setting up two other teammates who were on goal, and when the final whistle blew the cheers of Vogora supporters were loud. She was presented the game ball by the ref as she walked off the pitch with her team and the cheers and chants of 'Granger' grew as well as some song she couldn't quite make out the words to but presumed Sirius was involved with.
Each locker room offered up showers. Hermione took a quick one, grateful for the haircut she'd had a week ago that had removed a great deal of her hair. After she cast some hair care spells Daniela had taught her she was ready to leave, saying goodbye to the girls before exiting to see Harry waiting near the entrance to the locker rooms. He moved to her quickly and kissed her, "You were fantastic. Woman of the match, hands down."
"I could hear you yelling my name," she kissed him and smiled, "so you enjoyed it?"
Harry laughed before wrapping an arm around her as they walked out of the stadium together, "How did you get so good? That chip was fantastic and that first goal when you nearly took the roof of the net off…"
"Practice," she quipped. "Seriously, it's in part my dad's fault. He and I would kick the ball around the garden when I was little and then when I was a little older, say five or six, he showed me keepy-up. I was amazed at how he could control the ball with his entire body. At my first game he took me to we saw the players warming up and they were even better, manipulating the ball as though it was a part of them. I wanted to be able to do that."
"And in typical Hermione fashion you didn't stop until you were the best," Harry smiled knowingly.
"You know me well," she smiled, "today was my first hat trick."
"That header was awesome. You can jump pretty high."
"Boys have the advantage of being taller and physically stronger," Hermione said, "so I have to work harder to overcome those advantages."
"You definitely impressed me," he grinned. "Adrián was sitting behind me and he said I was a lucky guy, having you as my girlfriend."
"What'd you say?"
"That he didn't have a clue just how lucky I am," Harry squeezed her affectionately, "but that I know and definitely appreciate the honor."
"Laying it on a bit thick Harry," she teased.
"At least I'm not accidentally giving you lines," he grinned.
She laughed as they came upon her parents. She gave Harry the ball so she could hug her parents, her dad picking her up and spinning her around, "Absolutely brilliant! I was telling everyone that was my daughter down there picking those boys apart!"
"He really was," Emma Granger nodded.
"Thanks Daddy," she said, taking the ball back from Harry, "Dad you're the one that got me into the game so I think it's only fair that my very first game ball goes to you."
Dan smiled and accepted the ball, "Thank you dear. Your chip was amazing."
"Glad you liked it," she said, leaning into Harry when his arms slid around her. "I'm starved."
"Sirius is buying us dinner," Harry said.
"I am?"
"I'm with Harry, you're buying," Daniela said, teasing her boyfriend.
Dan and Emma chimed in their agreement and Sirius held his hands up in surrender. "Alright then. Lead the way you two," he said to the teens.
-February-
Harry Potter collapsed in his bed. He was certainly busy at his new school. And it was exhausting. He'd been so busy he'd almost forgotten about Valentine's day, which was a week away. Almost being the key word. He wanted to give Hermione a good evening. After some careful questions so as not to make her suspicious and with some help from her mum and Daniela who were masters of asking those questions he knew what to do. He was going to cook them dinner and they'd eat in the gardens. Raffy and Dobby were in charge of the scenery and table. Keeping the two hero-worshipping elves busy was crucial to them getting along.
The Grangers and Sirius and Daniela were both going to be out for the evening, giving him and Hermione all the privacy they could want. He yawned and shifted to put his head on a pillow. He and Hermione had decided to try sleeping alone again. His therapist had suggested it. The past three nights they'd slept in different rooms and he didn't like it. He didn't have nightmares anymore since the scar had been removed but actually sleeping without being cuddled up with Hermione was difficult to impossible. He hadn't had a good night's sleep since he and Hermione had last slept together.
He rubbed his eyes. He was so tired. He heard his door open and he yawned. "Harry?"
Hermione's voice had him sitting up, "Hermione? What's wrong?"
"I don't want to sound needy, Harry, but I can't sleep alone anymore. I just can't fall asleep no matter what I do."
Harry smiled, "I can't sleep alone anymore either. I reckon you ruined me Hermione."
"Me? It's obviously your fault," she teased, coming into the room and sitting down on his bed. "My life was so uncomplicated and simple before I met you."
"But incredibly boring and dull," Harry grinned cheekily.
Hermione slid her shoes off and lay down next to him, "Maybe a little boring," she conceded.
"My life was lonely until I met you. Even with Ron," Harry said. "He just…he never got me. I was this mythical hero brought to life and if I was different from that hero then I was being weird or something."
"And with me it was different?"
"I always knew that you saw me. Not the myth, not the fame, not the money. Just me."
"Just you is pretty good," she mumbled. "Pretty wonderful. And comfy." His arms wrapped around her and they drifted off to sleep quickly.
Shortly before dinner two heads peeked into his room to see them snuggled together. "You owe me," Emma said, her hand out as Dan got out his wallet to pay her. "I told you they couldn't sleep apart longer than a few days."
"I thought their stubbornness would see them go at least a week," he grumbled.
"You underestimate their bond," Emma smirked, gently closing the door. "Come on they need to sleep."
"We just locked our teenage daughter in a bedroom with her teenage boyfriend," Dan said as they walked down the hall. "And yet it isn't weird."
"Harry and Hermione aren't most teens Dan," Emma said, "once we found out Hermione was a witch I knew our life would change dramatically. Maybe not this dramatically," she conceded, "but I can't say our life isn't better."
"Agreed," Dan nodded.
When the teens woke it was late. "I think we slept through dinner," Harry said, not making any effort to move.
"Yeah," Hermione sighed. "That nap was really nice."
Harry grinned. "I definitely agree. Can we go back to sharing a bed?"
"I think we should," Hermione answered. "Let's go get some dinner." Begrudgingly he released her and sat up, standing and then pulling her up and off of the bed. She kissed him, "Thank you kind sir."
"Always a pleasure milady," Harry said, bowing dramatically. She smiled as they walked to the kitchen together. Their banter had been growing lately and she was glad. She liked the playful side of their relationship.
-Valentine's Day-
"I have to say, I love a man that cooks," Hermione smiled as Harry held out her chair for her. The setting was pretty great, Harry had to admit. Raffy had arranged for a gazebo of sorts that had warming charms on it and while it sheltered them from the light snowfall of the evening it still showed the garden which Raffy had hung lights in and filled with a tasteful yet romantic décor and feel.
"Paella," Harry said, "I've never made it before but Winky got some Spanish cookbooks and it looked really good."
"If it tastes as good as it looks then we're in for an amazing dinner Harry," she said as he sat down. "Dare I ask what's for dessert?"
"We're having churros. I thought we could make them together. Be a fun thing to do. They're best fresh."
"Why Harry Potter I do believe I'll have to marry you," she teased.
"If that's a proposal it could use some work," he grinned.
Hermione laughed as he served up the paella. A whole month of therapy for Harry had vastly improved their relationship and his confidence. They talked much more openly with each other about their relationship and minor insecurities here and there. She definitely felt she was dating her best friend. The easy joking and teasing highlighted that.
Harry was pretty sure that Valentine's Day was supposed to be more romance than laughter and humor but as he had a flour fight with his girlfriend in the kitchen as they made the churro dough together he found he was having too much fun to care. "I'm glad I cut my hair," Hermione said as they ate their freshly fried creations sitting on the kitchen table. "Can you imagine if I'd had my long hair covered in flour?"
"I have to admit, I do like it shorter like you have it," he said, tilting his head to gaze at her.
"Good," she leaned into him, "we're going to need a shower."
"And to apologize to Winky for ruining her kitchen," Harry added.
"Definitely," she agreed. "Tonight was fun Harry. Thank you."
"I was thinking we could watch a movie or something to end the night but I think we're too messy for that," he smirked, "but I loved this. Reckon we've had the most entertaining Valentine's Day ever."
"Agreed," she lifted her head and kissed him on the lips, "now we both need to get cleaned up. Dinner was amazing and dessert was delicious." Harry could taste the cinnamon sugar from the churro on her lips and he smiled.
"Race you to the bathroom?"
"We are not running through the house like this," she said. Suddenly she had a devious grin, "Harry I have an idea." After she explained her idea Harry was certain his girlfriend should have been sorted into Slytherin house. That Sorting Hat must have been bewitched or blind to the obvious.
Sirius, Daniela, and the Grangers all returned to the house at the same time late that evening. The house looked quiet and as they entered all seemed normal. "Hermione? Harry?" Emma called out.
Hearing no response they went into the hall to see a shirt Emma instantly recognized as Hermione's, covered in flour and lying on the floor. All four adults looked at each other in confusion. A peek into the kitchen confirmed that the flour was from the mess that they'd made in Winky's normally impeccable kitchen. A note was on the fridge: Sorry for the mess Winky. We got a bit sidetracked making dessert. Turns out Hermione tastes even better with cinnamon sugar. –Harry
Dan and Sirius paled. Emma's hand flew over her mouth with a gasp of surprise and Daniela bit her lip. She'd certainly expected the couple to become intimate in the next two years but she'd expected it to be after Harry's sixteenth birthday.
The quartet exited the kitchen and followed what turned out to be a trail of clothing and flour. After Hermione's shirt was Harry's shirt. Then was Harry's belt. His pants swiftly followed and there was flour on the wall where one could presume the two teens had paused. Emma rubbed the sides of her head. Dan looked so pale he might faint and Sirius looked ready to follow him. Daniela was feeling rather relaxed. She knew Hermione was on birth control and she'd taught them both the contraception charm, even making them cast it to prove they could to her.
Hanging on the staircase banister was Hermione's pants and when they moved further up they found Hermione's bra caught on a lampshade of a wall light. There was no doubting what they two teens had got up to that evening, if Harry's note to Winky and their clothes strewn about the estate house hadn't already made it clear. They entered the kids' bedroom, where the door had a flour impression of one of them, to find Harry's boxers caught on a lamp on the nightstand and Hermione's underwear on the ceiling fan. "Oh dear God," Emma gasped.
That was when they heard laughter coming from the large bath. Dan opened the door to reveal two teenagers sitting in the very large bathtub that most closely resembled a hot tub thanks to its size. Only their necks and heads were visible above the water. They were sitting next to each other and both looked up, "Mum, Daddy," Hermione smiled. "We had a wonderful Valentine's Day. How was yours?"
Sirius wasn't sure what to say or do. Being a godfather really needed to come with a manual, and if the looks on the Grangers' faces were any indication so did being a parent to a teenager. "W-we had a lovely time sweetheart," Emma answered her daughter, trying not to ask the obvious question.
"Hermione I think we shouldn't play with them anymore," Harry said. "Sirius and Dan could really get hurt if they fainted on the tile floor."
"That's true Harry," Hermione nodded, and with that both teens stood up in the bath to reveal swimsuits.
Sirius, immediately recognizing the prank, nearly fell on the floor laughing. Daniela wasn't far behind and the Grangers quickly realized the prank as well and Dan gave a sigh of relief and a smirk. His daughter was a crafty witch. "You two…brilliant," Sirius gasped out.
"We had a flour fight making churros and we decided it would be best to just strip down to our underwear in the kitchen and go upstairs so we wouldn't make a mess," Harry explained, "but then Hermione got this Slytherin idea in her head and it was just too good to pass up."
"We asked Winky and the boys to help us out and they did."
"Of course. Winky could magically clean the entire kitchen with a snap of her fingers," Sirius said. "I was so shocked seeing your clothes on the hall floor I didn't even think about that."
"The flour on the walls came from Raffy and Dobby. They did a good job," Harry grinned.
"We just changed into our swimsuits in the kitchen and then we came up here to shower after we strategically placed our clothes throughout the house," Hermione's grin was huge and Harry was looking equally as delighted. It was obvious the pair enjoyed having got one over on the group.
"You really should have been a Slytherin Hermione," Sirius said, wiping tears of laughter from his eyes. "That was brilliant. I really thought you two had…" He shook his head, "I should have suspected it was a trap."
The teens just grinned at each other and stepped out of the bath. The four adults left the room so that they could dry off. "She's definitely your daughter," Emma said to Dan.
"Me? That was something she got from you," Dan argued. Sirius burst out laughing as the two parents tried to deflect blame for their daughter's cunning and humor to each other.
"I'm still of the opinion that she gets it from you," Emma said.
"You could just blame Sirius," Daniela interrupted, "he's a bad influence." Sirius pouted and Dan laughed as they all exited the teens' bedroom.
-February 21st-
The morning of the second task three students were missing. Cho Chang, Neville Longbottom, and Luna Lovegood had all vanished from the school. While Viktor and Fleur were unaffected, Cedric was quite visibly upset and freaking out. That Cho's life was in his new limbs' hands was disturbing. He didn't want to fail her.
The three Champions heard the spell go off and then entered the lake, Fleur and Viktor both eating Gillyweed and Cedric casting the bubblehead charm. They entered the lake and the audience went silent, looking around. "How do we know what's happening?" More than one student asked that question but no answer was given. The lake's waters calmed not long after they'd all dived down. And silence reigned over the stands and the grounds of Hogwarts.
Hermione took a deep breath. Today she was playing, and two hours after her match it was Harry's turn to take the field. Futból matches always happened before quidditch ones, since a futból match was 90 minutes plus a fifteen minute halftime. A single quidditch match could be 10 minutes or 10 hours, so it only made sense for them to play after the game with a time limit.
On Hermione's part since she started capoeira she felt her balance in her game, particularly when she was running and shooting, was much improved and she could certainly jump higher than before. Harry had better balance on his broom and she'd seen him practicing new moves inspired by capoeira that made her nervous. But without dark lords trying to bring his broom down and bewitched bludgers and dementors targeting him she could handle him being a little reckless.
Harry sat in the stands with the Grangers and Sirius and Daniela. Behind them was his entire quidditch team. After his first game for them, in which Harry had ended their losing streak by catching the snitch when the score was 60-0 and bringing the end total to 60-150, they'd bonded. They all saw him as their savior and hope to not finish bottom of the league yet again. Harry remembered drills that Oliver had made the team run through even if Harry himself had never done them and he taught them to the team. The team definitely was third best and Harry saw that after seeing the boys team take on the girls team the week after his first game. But Harry was determined to build up the team, much like Hermione was determined to improve her teammates' abilities to score goals so that she had support on the pitch beyond thumping crosses into the box for her. All of his team wore Real Vogora jerseys, though they wore the other girls' names on their backs. Harry was a bit possessive. Unlike Hogwarts' boys, Vogora boys (and some girls) could see how beautiful Hermione was and after her first game she was more than once checked out by others. It drove Harry nuts but he tolerated it primarily because every night he was in her arms and she was in his. If they didn't share a bed Harry was certain he'd get incredibly jealous.
According to his therapist, given his upbringing in which everything he ever wanted or loved was always taken from him, it wasn't all that surprising that Harry was possessive of Hermione and highly jealous. He said that Harry needed to remind himself that Hermione had chosen him and Hermione reminded Harry often that he was her 'only' boyfriend. That promise of a forever with her certainly eased his fears but when people leered at her like Dudley leered at a new toy Harry felt himself get possessive and admittedly a little afraid he'd lose her.
Hermione, though, wasn't one to let him think those thoughts too long. It made him love her even more each time because he certainly appreciated how difficult he could make her life. Harry made an effort to show her his appreciation and to be a bit stronger in supporting her.
Hogwarts was more silent than they ever had been before. There had been no movement on the lake for the past twenty minutes but everyone remained quiet, save for the occasional yawn.
The crowd's roar when Hermione slotted home her first goal of the match against Sporting Isedia [all-girls] was massive. She couldn't stop the grin from emerging. Seeing Harry and her dad jumping up and down in the stands never failed to make her smile. Historically speaking, Real Vogora had a hot rivalry with Isedia in general as they weren't above trying to poach the best players of the school, even scouting potential students. Vogora though was very appealing to students; it was the only school in Spain that wasn't a boarding school and families who didn't live in town could apply to the government for a reusable portkey to portkey terminals near the family's home, thus eliminating issues of travel and residency. It gave Vogora an advantage Isedia couldn't have but the all-girl school still pushed hard for the Madrid school's students.
Running into Sporting's box Hermione was tackled hard, the defender's studs slamming into her ankle, and she went down. She didn't have to look to know that Harry was up out of his seat furious. She knew her boyfriend well. Wincing she rolled onto the side that hadn't been hit and held her ankle. That hurt. But nothing felt broken and she could hear her teammates demanding a red for the tackle that had brought her down while the opposing team was complaining that the challenge didn't require a penalty. Apparently he had pointed to the penalty spot immediately when Hermione went down. The referee walked over to her and leaned down to ask if she needed medical attention. Lara helped her up and after testing out her ankle Hermione said she would be okay.
The referee looked at Hermione, who had a slight limp, before reaching into his pocket and brandishing the red card to the defender who'd taken her out. Hermione would later learn from her teammates and from Harry that the defender had both feet off the ground, studs out, and didn't even come close to the ball. The Isedia section of the crowd could be heard protesting the decision while Vogora's section applauded the ref, though more than one person was out of their seat to see if their new star striker was injured badly.
Since it was her left foot and Hermione was right-footed she decided she could at least play through to half-time (10 minutes away) before getting it looked at. There was applause when she moved to take the penalty kick. Taking a deep breath Hermione looked at the ball and the feet of the goalkeeper. The whistle blew and Hermione ran to the ball, kicking it hard and sending it to the right as the goalkeeper went left. Cheers sprang up from the Vogora section and Hermione caught a glimpse of Harry, who looked happy but still concerned, especially when she winced when she put weight on her left foot.
She lasted the ten minutes and was relieved that the extra time was only three minutes more. As soon as they were in the locker room the school medic was pulling her to the side to look at her ankle. Carolina moved over, "Can she still play?"
"I'd prefer to magically heal it and keep you benched for the second half," the healer answered.
Hermione was ready to argue she could play when Carolina spoke first, "Alright then. Daphne you'll go in for Hermione for the second half." The tall black French girl gave a small smile to Hermione, who smiled and nodded her acceptance of the decision. She couldn't argue against it, really. She could put a brace on it and continue to play but it was best to heal the injury right away so that she would heal quickly and cleanly. Once you were magically healed you couldn't continue in the match. It was a rule.
With Hermione's permission the healer took care of her injury and she felt better immediately. "I'd suggest not playing for a couple days. I'll get you a bone fortifying potion to take."
"You don't have to. We have a potion maker in our house," Hermione said.
The healer raised a skeptical eyebrow as she asked, "Name?"
"Daniela Ramos."
"Ah," the healer smiled, "she always was good in Potions. I was surprised she went into curse-breaking when she was so inclined toward potion-making."
Two bodies floated to the surface of the Black Lake. Closer inspection revealed it was Neville Longbottom and Luna Lovegood. Both teens looked unconscious, which spurred organizers into action. A boat was taken to the middle of the lake and they were taken into the boat, though there was no sign of any of the Champions. Dumbledore was concerned. They were supposed to wake as soon as they broke the surface of the water. That they weren't was a problem.
Harry was concerned when Hermione was on the bench after half-time. The announcement that it was due to injury nearly had him out of his seat but Emma held him down, "She's okay Harry. If it was bad they'd have got us."
"What if she needs me?"
"She's a big girl son," Dan said, "and if she needed you right this moment, you'd know it. Wait until after the game." Harry nodded but he found it hard to concentrate when Hermione was down there and he wasn't sure how injured she was.
It was past the hour mark and there was still no sign of the three Champions or Cho Chang. The Ministers of Magic of Bulgaria and France approached the judges, "Just what are you playing at here Dumbledore? Have you had our citizens killed?"
"My spells are quite good I assure you," Dumbledore said dismissively. The two students who had surfaced had been taken away for treatment shortly after surfacing so he was unsure what had happened to them but he was very powerful. There was no way the problem was because of him.
"Yes they are so good that two of the students rescued from the lake, your students, I must point out, are being treated for drowning," the French minister responded. "Where is Miss Delacour?"
"And Mr. Krum," the Bulgarian minister demanded.
"I'm sure they're fine," Dumbledore said. "Surely they'll be up any minute-"
"DUMBLEDORE WHERE IS MY SON?!" Amos Diggory's voice didn't need magical amplification. The angry man was plenty loud without it as he stormed up toward the judges' table.
The second half of the match was very hostile. Four yellow cards were shown to Sporting Isedia (and three to Real Vogora) during the half. But Harry could see, when he wasn't looking at his girlfriend trying to gauge her injury status, that Real Vogora with the one-woman advantage was going to easily triumph. Vogora did not score again, which only highlighted how much they needed Hermione, but they were never under much threat from the opposition and they did have seven shots on goal and four wild shots in the second half. As soon as the game was over Harry was on the move to get down to the pitch. He leaped over the barrier and was met by Hermione, who kissed him, "I'm fine Harry."
"How hurt are you?"
"A bone fortifying potion and a few days of taking it easy and I'm good to go," she assured him.
"Then you shouldn't be standing on it," he said, frowning at her.
"Harry," she began.
"Nope I'm carrying you. Either on my back or bridal style."
"Harry I'm fine," Hermione rolled her eyes, "I'm going to the locker room."
"And then home."
"I'm going to watch your game Harry." Harry knew better than to argue with Hermione about that. It would take death to keep him from attending one of her games and she was the same with him and he knew it. He didn't push it, just nodded his acceptance of her words. She kissed him again, "Thank you for caring so much Harry. I love you." It didn't matter how many times she said it, Harry still felt butterflies in his stomach every time she said 'I love you' to him. He smiled and returned the kiss, "I'll try to be quick okay?"
"I'll wait however long it takes," he said.
"One of your more admirable traits," she smiled. Harry grinned.
The calm lake surface rippled before two head broke the water. Deep breaths were taken as they dragged up two bodies. They were picked up by the boat party and both teens gasped as their lungs drank in air. The ministers of France and Bulgaria and Amos Diggory stood on the shore waiting. The ministers breathed a sigh of relief. The two conscious individuals were Fleur Delacour and Viktor Krum. Lying in the boat unconscious were Cho Chang and her boyfriend Cedric.
"We 'ad to go back for zhem. Zhey needed our 'elp," Fleur said.
"Da. The grindylows had them trapped," Viktor added. Dumbledore found himself the target of many angry people after that.
Hermione exited the stadium on Harry's back. He'd insisted on carrying her despite her objections and she had given in because he had pulled out the cruelest trick in the book; his puppy dog pout. Harry was a master at it. They went home and Daniela opened up her potions stores to find a bone fortifying potion. With both teens playing sports she'd thought ahead and made plenty of potions if and when they got injured.
The curse-breaker also created a brace for Hermione to wear to support her ankle so that she could shower and walk without harming her ankle as it healed. Then Hermione took a shower. Harry carried her downstairs after that and soon they had to go back to the stadium so that Harry could play. She kissed him for good luck before he went to the locker room and they went to find their seats. She was wearing Harry's team jersey with Potter across the back, much to his delight.
The game started and Hermione watched Harry take off from the ground. The stadium magically lifted and Hermione pulled out her omnioculars. They were very useful for watching Harry play. The stadium was again full and she settled into her seat. It would be a good game. Harry playing guaranteed that.