Chapter 18: Swallowed In The Sea
Harry walked slowly back to the common room from his lesson with Dumbledore. The headmaster had made him go into his memories, memories of Tom Riddle before he became Lord Voldemort. He had claimed he needed to understand the past in order to understand the present and future and although he could appreciate this outlook, it still made watching a young Voldemort a difficult thing to endure. Tonight they'd revisited Tom at the orphanage where he grew up. Harry found it incredibly unnerving that even at the age of 11 a boy was capable of such cruelty. Muttering the password to a disgruntled Fat Lady, Harry clambered through into the common room.
All thoughts of Voldemort and the war flew from his mind as he saw Hermione lying on the couch asleep. A book lay limply in her hand, the soft crackle of the dying fire the only sound in the empty room.
He walked over to her quietly, his footsteps light.
They'd hardly had any time together since they had been back. With Quidditch, extra training and school-work, finding spare time had been increasingly difficult. Kneeling down beside her he brushed a strand of hair from her eyes, his thumb running across her lip ever so gently. A small smile broke out on her face at his touch, her eyes remaining closed and he felt his heart give a small tug.
He bent his head down and pressed his lips to hers softly. "Hermione, come on. Bed time." He squeezed her hand gently and tried to rouse her from her sleep. She scrunched up her nose in protest, her grip on his hand strengthening. "Mione, you got to wake up. I can't get you to your dorm." Harry whispered.
"No." Hermione mumbled, "never see you. Stay here." She pulled on his hand and he stumbled forward slightly.
"I know but it's already 12. You need to go to bed." Harry tried to coax her.
She mumbled out something in response that Harry didn't catch before burrowing herself more deeply into the cushions.
Harry sighed quietly, his green eyes sweeping across her body slowly, drinking in every detail. Her green singlet was scrunched up to her stomach, exposing her belly button while her dark grey trackies hung dangerously low on her small hips.
He glanced around the room helplessly before looking back down at her, "Hermione!" He whispered more urgently, pushing her shoulder gently. She moaned quietly, her eyebrows furrowing together before relaxing.
Sighing and biting his lip, Harry gently placed her book on the nearest table before putting her hands around his neck and picking her up. She immediately snuggled into his chest, her bushy hair tickling his throat as she tightened her grip.
She was lighter than he expected and easily carried her up the flight of stairs to his dorm. Making sure he was quiet, he gently laid her out on his bed, smiling as she put up a small protest, her hands clinging around his neck briefly before releasing him and curling up into a small ball.
Harry smirked before picking up this pj's and walking to the bathroom.
Climbing in the bed without trying to disturb her a couple of minutes later, Harry pulled her towards him enjoying the feeling of her soft body as it melted against his.
The next morning Harry awoke slowly. He briefly registered someone's soft breath on his face and he smiled.
He opened his eyes, blinking against the light and met Hermione's whiskey coloured gaze. They stared at each other silently for a while before Harry broke the silence.
"Hey." His voice was rough from sleep. He tightened his arm around her waist and rubbed her back softly. Her skin was like silk and she shivered from his touch.
She glanced around them and then sent Harry a slight smirk. "I'm in your bed." She stated the obvious.
"You're so observant Hermione. Really. An A+." Harry grinned, his eyes twinkling.
"Smartass." Hermione pushed his shoulder slightly while rolling her eyes. "I mean how did I get up here?"
"You're even more stubborn asleep then you are awake." Harry peered over her shoulder and checked the time. He looked back at Hermione and laughed at her expression. "You were asleep on the couch when I walked in. Couldn't get you up for the life of me. Mumbling about me staying with you so I just took you up here." He paused, suddenly unsure of himself. "That's ok right? You're not mad?"
Hermione shook her head and smiled softly. "No of course not."
Harry let out a deep breath he wasn't sure he was holding and smiled at her. He propped himself on his elbow, his gaze never leaving hers.
"Did you sleep well?" He was so close he didn't need his glasses.
"Mmmmmmm." Hermione smiled at him, her gaze drifting to his lips.
Harry felt his heart flutter as Hermione's hand came up and brushed his wayward hair out of his eyes, her hand lightly tracing his scar. "Has it been hurting at all?"
"No." Harry whispered, closing his eyes. Her hand was cool against his forehead – the usual sense of calm settling over him at her touch. His heart beat increasing as he felt her shift in the bed towards him. When he felt her soft lips upon his he thought his heart would burst. Falling back onto the pillow, Hermione rolled on top of him, their lips still connected as Harry surrendered himself to her.
A loud crash and a string of curse words forced them apart just as she slipped her tongue into his mouth and met his slowly, her hands gripping tufts of his black hair softly.
"Bloody hell." It was Ron. He started ranting about his lucky boxers, his loud voice booming in the quiet dorm, awakening the others up sharply.
Hermione sighed quietly; collapsing in his arms while an annoyed expression flittered across her face.
Harry hugged her to him tightly and put his mouth near ear. "First match of the season is today. Ron's going to be packing it." He whispered. He kissed her below the ear before shifting so he was the one straddling her, his hands on either side of her head. Her arms around his neck loosely and she smiled at his disheveled appearance. While maintaining eye contact, he gently lifted up her hand and pressed a kiss to the centre of her palm, lingering briefly before pulling away. He bent his head down and brushed his lips against hers, the sound of Ron's voice drowning out as he and Hermione were the only two people in the world. He could feel her smiling against his mouth and he laughed softly before pulling back and resting his forehead on hers lightly. His necklace dangled from his neck, the snitch glinting in the morning light. "Do you think they'd notice if I didn't show up and stayed here with you instead?"
Hermione smiled, eyes sparkling. "I think a few would wonder where the Gryffindor Captain was."
"Damn." Harry looked at her, an expression of longing on his face before sitting up so he sat cross-legged at the end of the bed. "I hate Quidditch." He muttered quietly as Hermione watched him, her eyebrow quirked and a smirk on her face. She laughed at him mimicked his position; handing over his glasses they lay on the bedside table.
"When should I make my great escape?" She nodded toward the commotion on the other side of the curtains. Seamus and Dean were complaining about their rude wake up call. Ron seemed to be ignoring them, clearly intent on finding his 'lucky boxers.'
"Now?" Harry ruffled his hair and shrugged.
"And let the other boys see me?" Hermione looked scandalized and Harry grinned. "They can't know I slept here." She blushed brightly before continuing on, "it's absolutely against the rules. What if McGonagall found out?"
"Could you imagine?" Harry laughed as the image of their head of house reprimanding the smartest witch in the school for sleeping in her boyfriends bed drifted through his mind. "McGonagall giving you a talk about the birds and the bees?" He sobered up at the glare Hermione sent him although his eyes still twinkled. "Relax would you? We didn't do anything."
"They don't know that." Hermione whispered furiously, her face flushed. She paused before her face paled considerably, "they can't hear us can they?" Her voice was almost inaudible and her eyes were wide.
"What if they can?" Harry whispered, pushing forward suddenly and forcing Hermione to lie back down, his body looming over hers. He lowered his head to hers and found the pulse on her neck. Pressing his lips against it firmly, he smiled at its rapid speed.
"Harry." Her voice was breathless. She made to push him away but instead held him to her, her hands on his forearms.
"They can't hear you." Harry whispered quietly, his lips moving against her skin and making her tingle. "Don't you love magic?"
"I love you more." Hermione opened her eyes and smiled at him. How she said it made him pull back and look at her. Her eyes were completely open and honest, her voice soft as she looked up at him.
Harry felt his heart tug and he gently traced her lips with the pad of his thumb. "I love you Hermione." He whispered before replacing his thumb with his mouth.
"You ready?" Hermione asked as she made her way downstairs after changing into casual clothes.
"Of course." Harry smiled as she came into view. She wore black jeans and Harry's Gryffindor hoodie. Her hair, as usual was up in a high ponytail, her fringe pulled back as her brown eyes sparkled. "How do you do that?" Harry asked, tilting his head slightly as he looked at her.
"How do I do what?" Hermione asked coming up and stopping just in front of Harry.
"Look completely drop-dead gorgeous without trying?" Harry asked seriously.
"You're blinded by love." Hermione shrugged as she took his hand in hers and dragged him over to the portrait door.
"I have good eye-sight thank you very much." Harry spoke as they made their way to the great hall hand in hand. "You're just amazingly sexy and I'm amazingly lucky."
"Blinded by love." Hermione repeated in a singsong voice, glancing sideways at Harry and smiling.
"If that's what you want to believe than fine." Harry shrugged. "You're beautiful."
"Harry…" Hermione started, a blush creeping up her face as she looked up at him.
"You don't understand how hard it is for me not to punch anyone who just looks at you." Harry continued, nudging his shoulder with hers.
"Now you're being silly." Hermione rolled her eyes.
"Nah I'm not." Harry disagreed. "Half of Hogwarts isn't jealous because I'm the boy who lived. They're jealous because I'm the boy with the amazingly perfect girl also known as Hermione Jane Granger."
"Shut up Harry!" Hermione laughed, blushing again as they heard the crowd near the Hall come closer. "Come here you." Hermione muttered as they came to a stop.
"What?" Harry sent her a cooked grin, his green eyes twinkling madly as Hermione looked up at him.
"Just before you're assaulted in there by your fans I want to do this." Hermione whispered, closing the distance between them and kissing his smiling face. "Without being sent daggers." She added, as she pulled away and winked.
"You can do that anytime you want to." Harry laughed, leaning in and kissing her again thoroughly before breaking apart.
As they entered the great hall, Harry immediately spotted Ron's flaming red hair. Their friend was watching his sister, a look of disgust on his face as she ate her breakfast with vigor.
"How can you be eating at a time like this?" Ron asked just as they came up and took their seats, he nodded at them and offered a small smile before returning to look at Ginny.
"You mean breakfast time?" Ginny raised an eyebrow as she speared a piece of bacon and popped it in her mouth. She smiled at Harry and Hermione. "Hey guys."
Hermione smiled, "Hey gin."
Harry offered a small wave, his mouth currently full of scrambled eggs.
"Pre-game eating sickness hitting you again Ron?" Hermione asked as she loaded her plate with fresh fruit.
Ron scowled at Harry briefly who offered a toothless grin, "Maybe a little."
"You need to eat something." Hermione pushed some eggs his way. "You'll need all your strength."
Ginny nodded in agreement. "Hermione's right." She paused, allowing a small smirk to grace her face before adding teasingly, "as usual."
Harry let out a small bark of laughter and nodded along with Ginny. "Yeah and Ravenclaw's got a decent team." He put some bacon on Ron's plate, "Eat Weasley."
Ron looked at all three of them, a scowl on his face and his face slightly green. He silently picked up a fork and began eating small bites.
"Maybe you should get Pomfrey to make you like an anti-vomiting potion before each game." Seamus commented dryly as he eyed Ron's green complexion. Harry bit back a laugh as Ron glared at Seamus, his ears reddening. Hermione elbowed him gently in the stomach, nodding toward Ron.
Sighing quietly Harry turned toward Ron. "Don't listen to Seamus mate. We all know he wouldn't even last 5 minutes on the pitch." Harry ignored Seamus' protests and clapped Ron on the back in encouragement. "You're a Weasley mate, Quidditch is in your blood." Harry settled back down and smiled as Ron began eating with renewed energy, the green tinge to his cheeks fading slowly.
Chapter 19: Twisted Logic
Harry paced impatiently, his hands stuffed inside his light gray jeans as he waited for the first DA meeting to commence. His white volleys padded the floor in frenzy, the rhythmic beat of his feet hitting the stone the only sound that echoed in the room.
Hermione peered over the top of her book, an eyebrow raised in curiosity but it was Ron who spoke first.
"Stop with the pacing Harry. You're about to wear a whole in the floor boards." Ron said from his position on a beanbag. His long legs were sprawled out in front of him and his expression was annoyed. "Why are you nervous anyway? You've done this before." He picked absently at his woollen jumper and missed the look of contempt that flittered across Harry's face.
"Yeah, well back then this was a secret group." Harry glanced at his watch, "it's a completely different situation. Besides, last year the majority of the school believed I was a liar. We'll have all a lot more students joining."
"Plus you're letting Slytherin's join." Ron shuddered. He wasn't too pleased with the idea of allowing anyone from that house into the DA, as he believed it would eventually lead to some of the Order's secrets being leaked out to Voldemort. "I can't believe you are by the way." He added as an afterthought.
"I've already explained to you why." Harry sighed as he hopped up on a table. "I thought you understood."
Ron shrugged, a disgruntled look on his face. "I do understand. Doesn't mean I have to like it."
"Don't make it more difficult than it needs to be Ron." Hermione stood up and made her way towards Harry. "Don't you remember what Dumbledore said?" She looked at the red head expectantly and pursed her lips at his blank expression. "He said 'weak as we are divided, strong as we are united.' You need to have an open mind."
"Have an open mind?" Ron repeated slowly as he stood up. "Hermione Granger is telling me to have an open mind?"
"Well, yes." Hermione looked at him uncertainly, "what's wrong with that?"
"I just think it's a bit rich of you telling me to have an open mind when every time Luna opens her mouth you roll your eyes." Ron looked at her seriously for a few moments before a triumphant grin fitted itself on her face. He looked incredibly proud of himself.
Harry could almost feel a spark of electricity fly from Hermione as she narrowed her eyes. He glanced over at Ron and sent him a look of pity before Hermione opened her mouth to respond.
"That's because everything she says in nonsense Ron." Her voice was sharp and Harry was infinitely grateful it wasn't directed at him.
Ron rolled his eyes and Harry flinched. "That's your opinion. Just because you haven't ever seen it, doesn't mean it doesn't exist."
"It's not just my opinion." Hermione replied scathingly, "It's scientific fact. She has no substantial proof to anything she says." By now her face was flushed with anger, her stance defensive and Harry could only watch on. He figured they needed to get this out of their system and felt interfering at this point would do more harm than good. Unfortunately for him, Ron chose to point to him. "Do you even realize who you're in love with Hermione?" He waved his hand at Harry who frowned in confusion. Ron looked at her, his expression softening considerably. "He embodies everything you turn your back against Hermione and you don't see it."
"That's different Ron and you know it." Hermione frowned as she instinctively reached for Harry's hand. "Luna believes in mythical creatures. They don't exist. She's completely illogical."
Ron shook his head defiantly; "Everyday he defies all sense of logic by being alive. He has a destiny Hermione and you don't question that. You don't doubt him. Even though there's no 'substantial proof' you believe in him unconditionally." Ron took a deep breath, "I know you're smart Hermione. Hell you're a genius but just because you don't agree with her idea of the world, just because you don't understand it. That doesn't give you the right to look down on her." His tone was soft, he was being cautious of hurting her feelings and Harry smiled softly.
Hermione stood silently, her posture relaxing slowly as she drank in everything Ron said.
"She just doesn't make any sense to me whatsoever." Hermione bit her lip and sighed. "But I suppose you have a point." She conceded softly and if Harry could read her correctly, a little reluctantly. "How about we make a pact?" She extended her hand towards Ron who was looking at her curiously. "I'll have an open mind towards Luna's…" She struggled for the right word, "beliefs. If you give Slytherin's a chance."
Ron eyed her critically, "that's different though. Giving Luna a chance isn't likely to result in death."
"You sure about that?" Hermione mumbled impatiently, a hand on her hip, an eyebrow raised in doubt.
"Hermione." Harry nudged her slightly and she at least had the decency to look sheepish.
Ron stared at her hand for a while before gripping it firmly and nodding his consent. "Fine. It's not going to be easy though." He looked behind him when the door of the room opened and the first few students walked into the room. He took off and went to greet Seamus, Dean and Neville, a look of accomplishment on his face.
Harry smiled and lightly pinched Hermione's hand just as she was about to call out to Ron with her own response. Her mouth opening and closing silently as glanced back at him, a faint blush on her cheeks. He tugged her hand and she fell into him easily, her body fitting between his legs easily as he rested his hands on her hips. "You don't always have to get the last word you know." Harry reached up and tucked a stray piece of hair behind her ear tenderly, his fingers caressing her cheek softly before dropping back down to her waist.
Hermione pointedly ignored this remark, her hands coming up and resting on his chest. "Since when did Ron start defending Luna Lovegood?"
"I don't know." Harry wondered the same thing. He pulled her closer, smiling as he noted her sharp intake of breath. "But without one Luna Lovegood I wouldn't have had the guts to tell you I was in love with you."
"Really?" Hermione looked at him curiously, a light spark in her eye.
The room was getting louder and louder as more people piled in but Harry and Hermione remained wrapped up in each other.
"Just know that not everything Luna Lovegood says is complete 'nonsense.'" Harry smirked as he pulled her to him and pressed his lips against hers softly.
"You're going to be great today." Hermione whispered, as they broke apart, referring to his earlier anxiety. "You've got a lot of support behind you Harry. Don't forget that." She smiled again before stepping out of his embrace reluctantly.
"Ok, welcome to the DA." Harry looked around the room, his gaze sweeping across the throng of students that were now watching with avid interest. He spotted Malfoy standing at the back, his shoulders slumped slightly as he avoided various glares that were being sent his way. It wasn't difficult to notice how the small group of Slytherin's were separated from the rest of the group. Like outcasts. Remus and Tonks stood off to the side, merely observing at this point. They were the most eager of all of the order members to help with the DA. Harry considered the group and frowned at the clear looks of disdain the students were shooting each other.
Frowning slightly, he glanced at Hermione who offered a small smile of encouragement. That small gesture filled him up and suddenly he wasn't so nervous anymore.
Taking a deep breath, Harry decided to tackle that issue head on. "First and foremost, I need you all to understand that this war is bigger than house rivalries." Harry peered over the crowd. "And if you have a problem with working alongside any of your classmates then you should leave."
A few students shuffled on their feet, clearly uncomfortable. They didn't move however, even if they did send the new members looks of distrust.
"We're all fighting the same fight." Harry looked over at Ron briefly. "I don't care if you like each other. But you will respect each other."
Harry paused, glad that everyone was looking back, their expressions serious. "With these lessons we'll go over both defensive and offensive spells. We'll also begin to learn nonverbal spells. It's an incredibly useful skill to have when duelling." Harry turned to Remus and Tonks and gestured them forward. "There will be numerous members from the Order who will help out from time to time. I highly advise that you listen to them. They have great experience in this field. You'll be able to learn a great deal from them. I assume most of you are familiar with Professor Lupin." Harry clapped him on the back with a grin. "and this is Tonks." Harry rolled his eyes slightly as she curtsied, her hair switching from pink to green and back to pink in about 3 seconds.
"Considering this is the first lesson, we'll go over the basic defensive spells." At this a chorus of groans sounded throughout the room. Raising an eyebrow, Harry allowed a small smirk to grace his face. He glanced at Remus and was met with a small smile. "You'll thank me later." He told the group with a grin. "Now, pair up." As soon as he uttered that sentence a rush of movement ensued. Each house sticking to each other.
"Yeah nice try." Harry smirked, "new rule. You are no longer allowed to partner with anyone from your own house."
The group erupted in disapproval. One voice in particular carrying over the rest.
"You can't be serious. We're not children."
It was Zacharias Smith. What a prick.
Harry fought the urge to roll his eyes as he focused his attention on the blond. "I know you're not children. That's why it shouldn't be a problem pairing up with any one of your classmates. Besides, I specifically said if you have an issue working with anyone than you should leave. Did you not understand?"
"I understood perfectly." Smith scoffed.
"Than stop complaining." Harry shot him down before he could make another unwelcome comment. Turning to the now silent group he continued, "you are to pair up with someone from a different house. When you've done that you can start practicing producing shields." Another chorus of groans sounded and Harry bit the inside of his cheek. "I know we went over it last year but you need to revise it. I assume none of you have actually used it since then. For the newbies." Harry pulled out his wand and motioned for Remus to do the same. "Lupin is going to attempt do disarm arm me."
Remus stepped forward and waved his wand almost lazily, "expelliarmus." A jet of red light streamed out of his wand and Harry grinned.
Raising his own wand, he spoke quietly yet forcefully. "Protego." A bright, transparent blue light erupted from his wand and easily deflected the oncoming spell. Harry looked around the room and smiled, "I know a lot of you have mastered this spell but please bare with me. If you have got the hang of it, I encourage you to complete it nonverbally." He glanced at Hermione before adding. "If you've already done that. Than perhaps you could help those who can't with your expertise."
For the next hour Harry wondered about the room, stopping every now and then to help someone out when needed. The entire time, his eyes kept drifting towards where Hermione stood with McLaggen. The latter continuously sending Hermione a sly grin, his pearly white teeth almost sparkling. It seemed as though McLaggen was having difficulty is getting a hang of the spell nonverbally and Hermione had decided to lend some advice. She was too smart for her own good sometimes.
"You have nothing to worry about you know." A voice startled from his daze.
Turning toward the sound, Harry was surprised when he came face to face with Cho Chang.
"Oh, hey." Harry smiled. The nerves that arose from being around her last year had completely vanished. It was the first time they'd come face to face and Harry quietly marvelled at how much things had changed. "How are you?"
"I'm good." Cho grinned at him. Her dark hair was pulled back out of her eyes as she practiced her spell work. She nodded toward Hermione and McLaggen. "You keep looking over there. You're not being very subtle. I'm surprised he can't feel your glare."
"Does he have to keep looking at her like that?" Harry asked, ignoring her comment as he glanced toward the couple again. He frowned as he watched Hermione laugh at something he'd said. "What a prick."
Cho grinned, her dark eyes twinkling with amusement. "So this is what a jealous Harry Potter looks like." She tapped her chin thoughtfully. "An interesting thing to behold."
"I'm not jealous." Harry tried and failed to hold back a blush. "He's just…" He struggled for the right word. "Annoying."
"Ok, sure." Cho shrugged, a small smirk on her face.
"Do you like him?" Harry asked curiously, "like as in, like him?"
"I think he's pretty attractive." Cho's smirk grew more pronounced as Harry scowled. "Why?"
"What if she? I don't know…" Harry bit his lip as he ruffled his hair nervously. "I heard someone call him dazzling. I can't compete with dazzling."
Cho looked at him oddly for a moment. "I think you can." She said quietly. "Besides," She went on, her voice growing stronger, "she's totally in love with you Harry. You don't need to worry about McLaggen nor anyone else for that matter."
Harry sighed. He knew that already. It still didn't make watching Hermione being ogled at any more enjoyable.
Cho suddenly grinned, "Are you gonna help me or what by the way oh grand master?"
"Oh, of course." Harry shook his head and gave her his full attention. "With the nonverbal right?" Harry guessed. "From what I remember you were pretty good at it last year."
Cho nodded, her face showing her frustration as she attempted the spell and failed. "I can't do it. I've been trying all lesson."
"I know this advice is going to irritate you to no end but the key is practice." Harry laughed lightly at her glare. "Seriously. That and having a clear mind when you cast the spell."
"Easier said than done right?" Cho sighed softly. She smiled at him, "thanks for the words of wisdom though."
Harry collapsed into a beanbag, completely and utterly spent. The last student had just left, finally leaving him and Hermione alone. She stood in front of him, a smile on her face and a look of pride in her eyes.
"Do I have to shower you with compliments on how amazing you were or can you spare me the trouble and just agree with me for once without fighting?" Hermione smirked at him.
Harry laughed quietly, "I'm too tired to contradict you right now so I'll just go along with it."
Hermione released a deep breath dramatically as she sat down next to him. The bean bag sinking to adjust the added weight, forcing the two to roll inwards. Harry wrapped an arm around her and squeezed softly. "Just as long as you know how amazing you were."
"I didn't really do anything." Hermione shrugged, "just wandered around for the most part."
A flash of her standing and laughing with McLaggen flittered across his mind. He chose not to bring that up.
"You were amazing." Harry repeated firmly. "You always are." He kissed the crown of her head.
Hermione turned and smiled, "look at you. Smooth talker."
"What can I say?" Harry winked at her, "you bring out the best in me."
Chapter 20: Yellow
Harry closed his eyes as Professor Flitwick lectured the class. His head rested comfortably on his hand as the Professor's voice washed over him and lulled him into a sense of calm. He could hear Hermione's quill race across her parchment, the rhythmic sound oddly soothing. This continued for much of the lesson until the scratching of the quill stopped suddenly and he wasn't surprised when he felt someone nudge him gently soon after. Cracking one eye open he smiled slightly as he found Hermione looking at him, an eyebrow quirked in question. Glancing down at his blank paper and then at Hermione's neat scrawl that covered 2 pages of parchment he shrugged sheepishly before leaning back in his chair, his arm resting comfortably on the back of Hermione's. She reached over and scribbled on his parchment.
Are you ok?
Picking up his quill that he had been ignoring all day, he scribbled his answer. Yeah, just tired.
They're working you too hard. It's not healthy.
I'm fine.
Hermione snorted quietly. Liar.
Maybe. You're the only one who thinks so though. Everyone else believes me.
I'm not everyone else.
I know. You shouldn't worry so much.
Hermione scowled lightly. I can't help it. It's a condition I have.
You make it sound like I'm some sort of disease.
Something like that. It's not healthy for a person to worry so much.
Can I help in anyway? Maybe I can ask Snape to make you a potion for it. I think he's starting to like me. Harry grinned, his left hand playing absently with Hermione's woolen jumper.
Hermione shoulders shook lightly and she rolled her eyes. No. there's nothing you can do. It's completely incurable. I've tried everything.
Seems like you're doomed then.
Hopelessly. And it's your entire fault.
Harry smiled softly. I'm not going to apologize for it.
I don't want you too.
Harry kissed the side of her head gently. Good.
"OI, you two." Ron interrupted, catching their attention. "Class is over."
Harry glanced around and sure enough the room was emptying quickly, students shuffling towards the door, eager for their lunch. "Well, how bout that."
Hermione blushed brightly, her back straightening as she eyed the notes in front of her. "Oh no, I didn't write enough. Completely missed the last few minutes." She glared at Harry, her lips pursed. "Your fault."
Harry laughed loudly, quickly stealing another kiss. "I'm not going to apologize for that either."
Hermione rolled her eyes before turning to Ron, a doubtful but hopeful expression on her face. "You didn't happen to take any notes did you?"
"That's a joke right?" Ron laughed causing Harry to chuckle as they began packing up their work and made their way out of the classroom and into the corridor.
"You probably got more down than the entire class put together." Harry supplied lightly, slinging his bag over his shoulder. He watched in amusement as Hermione looked around them frantically, obviously looking for someone.
"Ernie would've done it." She sent both Harry and Ron small glares before spotting the Hufflepuff. "Ernie!" She called after him hastily, sighing in relief when he stopped at her call. "I'll meet you in the great hall." She sent Harry a quick grin, squeezing his hand softly before catching up with Ernie, her brown hair bouncing up and down as she rushed to get those all too important notes she missed taking.
Harry rubbed his eyes tiredly as he and Ron made their way towards the great hall. Ron was talking about Quidditch, his hands waving in front of them enthusiastically as he explained a new play he'd thought of the day before.
"Anyway." Ron finished just as they entered the hall and sat down. "What do you think?" He looked over at him expectantly.
Harry forced a grin. "Sounds great mate."
Ron nodded happily as he began piling food on his plate. "Maybe we could try it out at training tonight?"
"We have training tonight?" Harry asked in surprise. He completely forgot.
"Yeah, it's Wednesday." Ron looked at him oddly. "Are you alright Harry?"
Harry frowned, uncomfortable under his friend's scrutiny. "Yeah, I'm fine." He cleared his throat hastily before closing his eyes, his head resting in his hands on the table. In all honesty he wasn't fine. He was exhausted - both mentally and physically.
"Sure." He could her the disbelief in Ron's voice but didn't lift his head. It took too much effort. Instead he allowed the chatter of the hall wash over him, lulling him to sleep.
He couldn't have been asleep for long before he felt a familiar hand caress his neck. Long, slender finders ran through his unruly hair as her comforting scent relaxed him. Her concerned voice reached his ears soon after.
"Ron. I'm really worried about him."
"You always are." Ron's voice was light. "I know, I know." He quickly amended. Hermione must have glared at him. "I am too."
"He's exhausted." Hermione said softly. He could picture her chewing her lip as she said this.
"What should we do?"
"I don't know." Her voice was troubled. She never did like not knowing something. "Do you have any ideas?"
"We could talk to Dumbledore? Lupin or Tonks?"
"Maybe..."
"He'll be ok Hermione." Ron said softly. His voice was surprisingly reassuring. "I really believe that."
"I know." Hermione sighed. "I just feel like they forget he's just this 16 year old, I don't understand why he doesn't ask for a break. He's not a machine."
Ron made a deep noise in the back of his throat which sounded like he agreed. They were silent for a while until Ron spoke up - that rare tone he used before coming to the surface. "I know you think I have the emotional range of a teaspoon. Hermione, it's ok. It's true... most of the time I agree with you wholeheartedly. But that's not my point. He really loves you. Like, grown up loves you Hermione. Even Ican see that. I think that's the main thing that's keeping him going. Keeping him fighting and training and doing everthing that he's asked to do. He's doing it because if he doesn't... " He paused. "He wants to be the strongest he can be because of you."
Hermione sniffed, the hand that was massaging his neck stilling for a moment as she attempted to control the tears that wanted to spill out.
"Don't go crying on me now." Ron groaned.
"I am not crying." Hermione mumbled stubbornly. Her hand resuming its previous employment. "Besides, you can't just say something like that and not expect me to be all emotional."
"I'll really never understand girls."
"Don't spoil our moment Ron, you were doing so well."
"So I should stop talking now?"
"I think that's best."
"No problem Herms." Harry could hear the smirk in his voice and laughed inwardly as the redhead stood up. "I got Divination now anyway. It's not as fun as it used to be."
"Was it ever fun?" Hermione asked skeptically, her hand still on the back of Harry's neck. "And don't call me Herms." She added as an afterthought.
Ron laughed. "See ya later Herms."
Harry waited until Ron had left before he turned his head upward and cracked an eye open. Hermione sat next to him, their sides touching as she picked absently at her food. Her fork dangling in her right hand as her left continued to run through his hair unconsciously, a thoughtful expression on her face.
He watched her for a while, a small smile on his face before he spoke up. "Stop playing with your good."
Hermione's light brown eyes shot up to meet his, widening in surprise. She smiled down at him, dropping her fork and facing him fully. "Welcome back to the land of the living sleepy head."
Harry smiled, silently wishing he actually had been asleep for longer than 20 minutes. "Did Ernie lend you his notes?"
"Yes." Hermione bit her lip. "You were right though. I got more down than he did anyway." She frowned, clearly displeased.
"I'm not surprised." Harry smirked as he lifted his head. Hermione's hand dropped to his back where she began rubbing circles. He smiled softly as she reached up and fixed his fringe gently. His eyes glued to hers. She blushed under his scrutiny and he knew that her conversation with Ron was still on her mind.
"How are you feeling?" She asked quietly and Harry knew better than to say the response that was now a reflex. He took his time before he answered, choosing his words carefully.
"Happy." Harry said looking at her softly, smiling at her surprised look. "And completely and utterly exhausted. But you already knew that part didn't you?" He asked with a slight smirk.
Hermione laughed quietly. "The dark circles under your eyes and the fact that you close your eyes at every single opportunity was kind of a give away."
"You think i'm doing too much." Harry stated, watching her face.
"I know you're doing too much." She corrected him softly.
Harry nodded. "You're right. Between school work, quidditch and training I barely have time to see you... or sleep." He smiled. "But I think I have a solution."
"What's that?"
"I give up quidditch." Harry shrugged as though it was obvious.
"Are you sure? You love it so much." Hermione asked, eyes widening in surprise having clearly not even considered that as a possibility.
Harry shrugged. "Some things are more important." He said simply. He cupped her face in his hands and kissed her softly, for the entire school to see. "Like you. I'd rather be with you than chasing a snitch."
She blushed again, biting her lip as he watched her intensely. She didn't think she'd ever be able to come to terms with how green his eyes were and how easy it was to get lost in them. Ignoring the mutterings around them, she leaned forward and kissed him again, lingering before pulling back.
Harry grinned, scanning the crowd with amusement. "I think we've drawn quite a crowd."
"Everyone always looks at you anyway." Hermione teased him softly. She glanced around and grinned at him. "Let's go before someone actually curses me." She said dramatically, eyes twinkling as Harry laughed. She stood up, and when she was all set to go, held out her hand, smirk in place. Harry pretended to ponder for a bit, his head tilting to the side as he watched her. He stood up, studying her hand stretched out before him. She looked back, confusion etched on her face at his behaviour. He smiled quickly before grabbing her hand and tugging her toward him as he crashed his lips against hers. She gasped at the unexpected movement, allowing Harry to explore her mouth fully. His right hand coming up to the nape of her neck as his left maintained its grip on her hand. Pulling away only when he needed the oxygen he rested his forehead on Hermione's and smiled as she blinked her eyes open slowly, a dazed expression on her face.
"Oh no..." Harry bit his lip glancing around the worriedly. Mimicking Hermione from earlier. There were a group of 4th years watching them, mouths hanging open at their rare display of affection. A few other girls were glaring at Hermione, eyes narrowed to slits as they looked on with obvious envy. "The villagers are coming. We better run."
Without waiting for her to respond her pulled her along with him and ran from the hall, Hermione laughing the whole way.
"Is he going to be ok?" Hermione asked cautiously, looking at Ron with wide eyes. The trio plus Ginny were sitting in front of the fire and Harry had just told them he was giving up quidditch. Ron was sitting, mouth hanging wide open as he digested the unwelcome news.
Ginny snorted, nudging her brother and breaking him out of his trance. "Of course he is." She laughed and then stopped suddenly when Ron didn't join her. "Ron?"
"This is a disaster." Ron shook his head as he looked at Harry. "You're tired. You're not thinking straight. You can't quit quidditch."
"I am thinking straight." Harry sighed. "Please Ron, you know it makes sense. I have too much going on to worry about playing quidditch let alone captaining the team."
Ron sighed in defeat, his shoulders slumping as he looked at Harry and Hermione sitting together on the couch. They were sitting close, their sides touching with their hands laced together sitting between them. He smiled at Hermione who was looking at Harry. Complete adoration on her face. She must have felt his gaze as she turned to look at him, a bright blush staining her cheeks at being caught.
"I know." Ron sighed again, this time dramatically after smirking at Hermione. "Have you told McGonagall?"
Harry nodded, relieved that Ron understood. "I gave her back the badge. She was more upset than you." He grinned. "She hates the idea of Slytherin winning."
"More like the idea of losing to Snape." Ginny grinned turning to her brother. "Don't worry Ronniekins, we can still win." She looked doubtful for a moment. "Maybe."
Chapter 21: Warning Sign
Harry wondered into the common room early in the morning, his hair windswept and falling across his face gracefully. His mind was troubled as he clutched his broom in his hand tightly and just as he was just about to take the first step to the boys dorms, a voice called him to attention.
"Harry..."
He smiled, knowing that voice anywhere. The heavy feeling he had hoped would disappear with flying finally left him as her voice washed over him. He stepped back lightly and turned, a certain bounce in his step as he walked towards the table by the window.
"What are you doing up?"
"I went flying." Harry said lamely, holding his broom up. "You?"
"My transfiguration essay."
Harry grinned in spite of himself as he settled into a chair beside her. "You finished that last week though." He reached over and grabbed a crumpled piece of paper.
"It was complete rubbish." Hermione bit her lip worriedly. "I couldn't sleep all night because I knew it was awful..."
"So you got up and decided to re-write it on the day that is was due." Harry finished for her, smiling at her embarrassed look. "Nothing ridiculous about that."
Hermione pursed her lips but decided not to contradict him. "What time did you get up?"
"5:30ish." Harry shrugged as he flipped through a textbook absently.
"Are you not sleeping well?" She asked softly.
Harry frowned and shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
"Nightmares?" Hermione guessed after he didn't answer.
"Something like that." Harry was determined to remain vague, he wasn't too keen on talking about what he saw every time he closed his eyes.
Hermione however, had other ideas and grabbed his hands, forcing him to look at her. "I thought they'd passed."
"So did I." Harry mumbled quietly. He ran a hand through his hair tiredly and forced a smile. "Guess not."
Hermione frowned and stood up. "Tell me." She requested softly as she steered him towards the couch.
"They're the same as the old ones." Harry admitted quietly as he watched her cross her legs in front of her, her eyes never leaving his. He bit his lip. "But now it's different." He struggled for the words. "They're not just memories anymore."
"What happens?"
"I'm alone." Harry paused, biting his lip even harder than before. "With Voldemort. In the graveyard." He glanced down at their joined hands, his eyes following her fingers that traced a pattern on the back of his hand absently. "He makes me watch as he kills everyone. The Weasley's, Tonks and Remus." He paused, lifting his head and meeting her gaze. "He saves you for last. Every time. Because he knows it'll hurt the most." He shook his head slowly. "He knows how much you mean to me Hermione and he's going to use you to hurt me. To get to me." He felt tears prick at his eyes and stumbled on. "Every time I close my eyes, I see you die. Every single time I can't get to you fast enough."
"Oh Harry." Hermione breathed out, her own eyes shimmering with tears.
"And I know they're only dreams. I know it's all in my mind." Harry angrily brushed away a tear that leaked out of his eye. "But I still can't help but feel I'm being selfish, that I should be stronger and stop this. To stop us before it's too late." He looked at her desperately.
"I won't let you do that." Hermione said quietly.
"You're a target." Harry told her bluntly. "You're not safe Hermione."
"I don't care." Hermione looked at him square in the eye, her jaw locked. "He can't take what we have away from us. I won't let him. You won't let him."
"Hermione I-"
"No Harry." Hermione cut him off, her tone hard. "Don't you see that this is what he wants? He wants to you think you have to do this alone." She smiled at him suddenly, catching him off guard. "You're so different from them. You're so different from anyone I know. Don't you see that?" Hermione didn't wait for an answer. "You're the most selfless person I know. The most loving and caring. When you love someone, you love them with everything that you are. Don't you know how rare that is? To find someone who is literally willing to die for someone else?" She squeezed his hand. "He wants you to push us away. To push me away because he knows that when we're together you can do anything or be anyone and that scares HIM." She smiled at him softly, her hand brushing his hair back. "I'm where I want to be Harry."
Harry shook his head in wonder as Hermione leaned forward and kissed him softly. Her lips sending a jolt through his body.
"Now, that that's sorted what are we going to do about these nightmares?" She asked as she leant back, a thoughtful expression on her face.
"I don't know..." Harry shrugged tiredly as he rested his head on the back of the couch.
"Why don't you take a dreamless potion?"
"Then my mind would be vulnerable to attack. I'd have no control over anything." Harry bit his lip. He sighed quietly and laid his head in Hermione's lap. He felt the tension in his shoulders vanish as she began running her hands through his hair and before he knew, he'd drifted off to sleep.
"Who's Romilda Vane?" Harry asked, holding a letter delicately in his hand. The trio were sitting at the Gryffindor Table and the mail had just arrived.
Ron shrugged, his mouth full of bacon. He reached over and grabbed the letter out of his hand. "Looks like you have some competition Hermione." He laughed loudly, bits of food flying from his mouth. Harry grimaced slightly, his eyes following the path of a stray piece that landed inside Ron's goblet.
"What are you talking about?" Hermione cringed as she took the offered letter. She chewed her lip and frowned. After her eyes swept across the letter she leant forward in her seat and locked eyes with a dark haired girl, the latter blushing brightly but somehow maintaining eye contact, her chin raised defiantly, as though challenging Hermione.
"I take it that's her?" Harry followed her gaze curiously.
"Yes." Hermione handed him back the letter calmly before resuming eating her breakfast.
Harry frowned and turned to Ron with a questionable look.
"Have you not noticed her before now?" Ron looked at him with amusement.
Harry shrugged, glancing back at the girl quickly and trying to place her. "Should I?" He asked uncertainly causing Ron to laugh again.
"She stares at you all the time. She isn't very subtle." Hermione answered before Ron could open his mouth. "Her and her little gang next to her are obsessed with you."
Harry grinned at her tone. "Well i've never noticed so they can't be that obsessed."
"Please." Hermione scoffed. "You're completely blind when it comes to girls Harry, you always have been."
Harry clutched at his heart. "You wound me Hermione."
"Oh hush up." Hermione threw a bit of toast at him, laughing. "I wouldn't be surprised if she tried slipping you a love potion. Seems like something she'd do." She remarked after she settled down.
"Are you talking about Romilda and her fixation on little old Harry here?" Ginny asked as she plopped down next to the dark haired wizard.
"Am I the only one who doesn't know about her?" Harry asked as he tried to subtly look down the table. "I swear i've never even seen her before."
Ginny snorted. "That's not exactly saying much Harry."
"She sent him a letter." Hermione laughed, handing it over. "Well. A poem." She scrunched up her nose in displeasure.
"Slightly stalkerish." Ginny commented as she read the contents. "Did you know I was the girls lavatory the other day and overhead her talking to her friends about him."
"What were they saying?" Ron asked, laughing at the look on Harry's face.
"Well, she was trying to tell them that he had a Hippogriff tattooed on his chest." Ginny grinned. "Was quite adamant in fact - told them she'd seen it first hand."
"You can't be serious." Harry covered his head with his hands as Hermione and Ron laughed.
Ginny smiled at him sympathetically and patted his back. "There there. I don't think her friends believed her anyway."
"Bloody hope not." Harry muttered. "The last thing I need is to be known as the boy-with-the-hippogriff-tattoo-on-his-chest."
"I kinda like it." Hermione grinned, eyes twinkling. "Very catchy."
"I could see it catching on." Ron agreed, nodding along. "Yep. Definitely. I can see it in the Prophet now."
Harry shook his head slowly, a reluctant smile spreading across his face. "Unbelievable." He muttered as he reached over for the paper that had lain unopened beside him.
His face paled considerably at the headline and the ensuing article that followed.
AZKABAN BREAKOUT - DEATH EATERS ESCAPE
PRISON IN RUINS
Last night Azkaban Prison was the scene of a mass breakout. Chaos reigned as the Dementor's tried and failed to prevent the attackers from helping highly dangerous witches and wizards escape. The newly appointed Minister of Magic, Rufus Scrimgeour held a brief press conference following the devastating events. "I urge the public to remain calm." He spoke. "The ministry is making coordinated efforts to capture the escaped convicts. It is a time of war so I must reiterate the fact the families remain in their homes. Travel in groups and don't stay out after dark. These are the precautions that must be followed to guarantee the highest level of safety." The Minister refused to comment on whether or not he was in communication with Hogwarts Headmaster Albus Dumbledore who has received massive public support after last years fiasco at the Ministry. What is known, however is this. Highly dangerous followers of you-know-who are at large and dangerous. (article cont. pg 4.)
"What's wrong?" Hermione's voice cut through the silence, effectively ending his daydream. Ginny, who had been reading the article over his shoulder answered her question.
"Breakout at Azkaban." She bit her lip worriedly as Harry handed over the paper for the others to read. "Did the Order know this was going to happen?" She directed the question to Harry.
"Probably." Harry shrugged helplessly. "But Voldemort must have guaranteed the Dementor's something that they wanted. He wouldn't have been able to break in if they were really trying to stop them." He sighed. "It was only a matter of time really."
"I wonder why it took him so long to get them out." Ron commented as he and Hermione finished reading. "I mean, he could've done this much earlier than now."
Harry smiled. "He was probably making them pay for not completing their mission at the ministry. He didn't get the prophecy after all. Complete debacle." He looked over towards the Slytherin table in search of Malfoy but couldn't find him.
"Are you worried about Malfoy?" Hermione saw where he was looking, twisting in her seat to get a better look at the table at the far end of the hall.
Harry nodded, ignoring the scowl that was now on Ron's face. "With Lucius out it'll be even harder to avoid Voldemort. Snape's done a really good job so far of protecting him."
Ron shook his head in wonder. "Never thought I'd see the day when Harry Potter would say something nice about Severus Snape."
Harry nodded, chucking softly. "You're not alone there Ron."
Harry walked alone from the library down towards the dungeons for his Potions class. The day had gone by uneventfully and Malfoy had remained as elusive as ever. The castle seemed uneasy with students mumbling and whispering to each other more than usual. Harry had taken solace in the library where his fangirls had been banned by an intolerable Madam Pince.
The corridors were crowded with students shuffling off to their next class but a particularly large group caught his attention. The throng of students seemed to be gathered around something, or someone. A tight circle was formed, ensuring that whatever was in the middle couldn't get out. The flash of white blond hair made him increase his footsteps and as he drew nearer he heard insults flying from the mouth of a familiar blond haired Ravenclaw.
"What's wrong Malfoy?" Smith's voice dripped with sarcasm. "Not so high and mighty without your little gang are you?"
Harry sighed quietly as everyone laughed. Even those who weren't directly involved had smiled on their faces. Insults continued to be thrown at an unresponsive Malfoy.
"I'm surprised you even have the guts to walk around here." Smith continued snidely, oblivious to Harry's presence as he came closer still. "I mean, you're just like your old Daddy aren't you? A Death Eater. You might be fooling Potter but I know who you are. I know you're just bidding your time here before you stab us all in the back. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer right Malfoy?" He raised his wand suddenly and pointed it directly at Malfoy who remained unmoved, a resigned expression on his face. His gray eyes swept across the crowd slowly until they locked on green. Harry sent him a brief smile before locking onto Smith. Without even reaching for his wand, a loud bang echoed in the corridor and the Ravenclaw was launched into the air.
"Bit low don't you think Smith?" Harry spoke pleasantly as he picked up the dropped wand and walked over to stand beside Malfoy. The now silent corridor looked on in awe as Harry twirled the wand in his fingers, a small smile on his face. "I mean, six against one." Harry glanced around the corridor with a raised eyebrow. Those who had been siding with Smith not brave enough to meet his eye. "You must feel real big."
"You're the one who pulled out your wand and attacked someone while their back was turned." Smith glared up at him as he gingerly stood up.
Malfoy actually let out a small laugh at that, the sound completely foreign and misplaced considering the current situation. Harry grinned, tossing the wand back to Smith. "Who said I used a wand?" He challenged with a amused twinkle in his eye. "And you were about to attack my friend." He tilted his head slightly and studied him curiously. "You think you know him you say?" Harry asked. "You know who he is?"
The Ravenclaw rolled his eyes. "Anyone with a brain can work out he's just like his father."
Harry nodded slowly, turning his attention to the rest of the gathered crowd who had remained watching with avid interest. "Does anyone else agree with him?"
No one dared answered back.
Harry smirked, turning back to Smith who was blushing brightly. "You don't seem to have much support there."
Zacharias glared, a look of betrayal etched on his face directed at his supposed friends.
"Although I am aware that some here are too afraid to voice their opinion. It's common knowledge that half the school doesn't trust Malfoy." Harry glanced at Malfoy. "Accurate statement?"
"I'd say so." Malfoy nodded with smile. The whole action changing his face considerably.
Harry laughed and was surprised when two familiar heads appeared in the crowd. Ron and Hermione fought to the front and stood beside them without a word. Ron glared at Smith, his blue eyes hard as steel. Harry smiled at the sight. "You believe everything you read in the papers?" Harry asked, stepping forward. "You believe everything you hear other people say?"
"He has to be one of them." Smith said stubbornly.
"Why?" Harry questioned. "It doesn't matter what your name is or who your parents are. You make your own decisions and you become who you want to be. Don't give me that crap on becoming someone based purely on who your father is."
"You're going to regret it Potter." Smith glared. "He's a Slytherin. He's just like them and you're an idiot to think otherwise."
Ron snorted loudly causing everyone to look at him in surprise.
"Shut up you tosser." Ron responded before Harry could open his mouth, his arms crossed in front of his chest. "You're just embarrassing yourself."
"What do you know Weasley?" Smith sneered at him. "You hate him too."
Ron nodded. "You're right. I do hate him." He sent Harry a quick grin. "That doesn't mean I think he's a Death Eater."
As if on cue, he Slytherin rolled up his sleeve and exposed the smooth skin on his forearm. Dark Mark nowhere to be seen.
Ron nodded again, a satisfied expression on his face. "See? Just his pale as skin that's quite literally almost transparent. No Mark. I reckon that the Dark Mark would be pretty hard to hide right Hermione?"
"Actually impossible." Hermione said in her lecture tone, speaking up for the first time.
"Looks like I'm right." Ron grinned. "Feeling like a tosser yet?"
Harry shook his head and laughed at he caught the amused twinkle in Hermione's eye. She smiled at him. The single gesture made him a little light headed and he turned to Smith with a casual grin. "You need to get over this." He looked at everyone seriously. What was it going to take for them to understand? "You all do. These old prejudice's against houses and names needs to or it'll destroy you. Don't let something so pretty prevent you from letting you grow into a better person." He looked back at Smith and added almost menacingly. "The next time you and your friends decide to gang up on anyone you deem untrustworthy won't get away so lightly."
The sentence hung in the air for a while before Smith parted with a glare. The rest burst into chatter in sync, the noise filling the corridor, leaving the foursome standing by themselves.
"He's such a tosser." Harry muttered.
Malfoy nodded as he pulled his sleeve down. "He's not the only one though."
They began the walk to the potions class, ignoring the curious glances that were sent their way.
"You just need to give them time." Hermione tried to encourage, smiling as Harry laced their hands together.
Malfoy frowned. "How long exactly?"
"Well you were a total jerk for 5 years." Ron commented lightly. "You'll have to work extra hard to prove people wrong." He looked at him and shrugged. "If that's what you want to do anyway. You could very well be happy with just going about your business."
"Thanks Weasley." Malfoy adopted his old drawl. He looked at Harry curiously. "How do you do it Potter?"
"Do what? Be friends with Ron?" Harry laughed as Ron punched him on the arm.
Malfoy shook his head, watching them with an unreadable expression on his face. "Why you're friends with Weasley will always elude me." He smirked. "I meant how do you cope getting crap from everyone?" He sighed, struggling to find the right words.
"You mean how I go from being the next Dark Lord to The Chosen One in the matter of hours without wanting to go to the Prophet and burn the place down?" Harry offered easily.
"Well... Yes."
"I know who my friends are." Harry smiled with a shrug. "I know who's opinion matters to me and whatever else doesn't matter. I don't care what the papers write. I don't care what the gossip mills say." He clapped Malfoy on the back. "And the day will come Malfoy, where you won't care so much either."