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Season 2 Finale

XXXVII

Hermione Granger

Part IV

“Don't be nervous,” said Monica.

“I won't, mum,” said Hermione, fixing her collar.

“I was talking to Harry, dear,” Monica said kindly. “Are you alright, Harry?”

Hermione spun from the mirror in the living room to see Harry wearing a checkered polo shirt trying to look best for the arrival of her aunts. She smiled at his efforts as he raked his hair to make it look less untidy.

“Your hair is alright, Harry,” said Monica, fixing Harry's collar. “Elphaba is always fond of untidy things… though she can be a bit of a neat-freak.”

“Mom will love you,” said Alice, observing Harry's back, “Especially your eyes, since its green.”

“Yeah, I heard she loves green,” said Harry.

“She's obsessed,” Alice joked. “Well, her and my dad's room is green, when we got our new car, dad gave her the privilege to pick the color and she picked green.”

“Does she wear green?” Harry asked.

“Yes,” said Alice, nodding. “Because of her love of green, St. Patrick's Day drives her into a green spree.”

“You're Irish?” Harry asked curiously.

“Grangers are part-Irish,” Hermione pointed out, walking up to them. “Which explains why I wanted the Irish to win when we watched the Quidditch World Cup, remember?”

“I bet Krum didn't like that,” Harry chuckled.

“Who's Krum?” Monica and Alice asked.

A wave of red and realization dawned Hermione's face as she pulled Harry by the collar responding, “J-Just a friend, mum!” she chuckled nervously. “Harry -”

Hermione grabbed Harry by the arm and dragged him to a corner away from earshot.

“What?” he finally asked. “Don't tell me they -”

“Yes,” she said, looking over his shoulder nervously, “Er - my mum and dad, or anyone in the family for that matter, have no idea that I used to have a boyfriend.”

“Didn't you say that Krum was just a `just friends' thing?” Harry said.

“At the moment, asking that is futile so just shush!” she lifted a finger at Harry. “But I have to ask you to please not push on the subject in front of my parents!”

“Why?”

“Because -” she paused and recollected how awkward this may sound, “B-because… my mum and dad will…”

“Go ballistic?”

“N-no,” said Hermione, twiddling her thumbs, “It would've been fine if I told them immediately after the Yule Ball but it's been….”

“Three years.”

“Exactly.” Hermione nodded, “They might think I was holding out on them! My dad will kill me!”

“Easy, Kiwi,” Harry held her by the shoulders, “I promise I won't tell anyone.”

“Thank you, Harry….”

“No problem,” he smirked.

“Just don't call me Kiwi,”

“Sure thing, Kiwi,”

Hermione punched him on the shoulder so hard that her knuckles cracked on collision to Harry's hard shoulder.

“Ah!” Hermione squeaked, holding her knuckles that throbbed painfully.

“A-are you alright?” Harry took her by the wrist carefully to look at her hand.

I just punched a trained Quidditch player's shoulder. Do you think I'm alright?!

“I'm fine,” she said weakly, reeling her hand away from Harry's grasp.

Beep! Beep!

The sound of the car horn echoed across the living room from the outside.

“Oh, they're here!” said Monica, looking out the window.

“That was quite fast for Uncle Jac-Jac to go forth and back from the airport,” said Alice excitedly, looking out the wide window.

“I bet he's doing his speed-driving again,” Monica said with a hint of contempt. She has always disapproved of her husband's fast driving.

“We're home!” said the voice of Jacques from the outside. “Oh, look at that, Mimi and Didi are excited!”

Cue to this, Hermione heard scuffling and talking about from the outside and a knock on the door. Monica quickly dashed to open the door when the cry of twin children called out.

“Aunt MonMon!”

Hermione smiled broadly when two identical blonde haired children hugged Monica by the leg.

“Mimi, Didi!” Monica said happily, hugging her nieces. “You've grown so big!”

“Monica!”

“Glinda!”

A short blonde-haired woman passed through the threshold to hug her sister. She was nearing her forties, had blue eyes and gave a sense of motherliness in her overall disposition considering her white dress matched the snowy outdoors.

This was Hermione's Aunt Glinda.

“Aunt Glinda!” Alice greeted happily as she trotted towards her.

Hermione followed Alice but was pushed back by a strong force around her legs.

“Hermione!” squealed two voices below her.

Looking down, Hermione's eyes met the identical twins called Mimi and Didi.

“Mimi,” said Hermione, crouching lower to hug the two, “Didi! Awww, I missed the both of you.”

“We missed you more!” said Mimi in a very cute voice.

“Yeah, we were sooo excited to see our big sister again!” said Didi adorably.

“Oh, you shouldn't really call me that,” said Hermione kindly, swelling with pride.

“I think you're more than welcome to be called so,” said Aunt Glinda, looking down at her.

“Aunt Glinda,” Hermione stood up and kissed her aunt on the cheek.

“Kiwi,” Glinda said sweetly, “My, my you've grown taller!”

Hermione blushed a bit and smiled weakly at her. She did not know what she was blushing for; being called by her nickname or hearing her aunt say that she has grown taller.

“Not to mention,” Glinda added, holding Hermione by the cheek, “You look a lot prettier than I last saw you.”

Before she could blush even more, a very American voice from the outside called out.

“Jacques, would you give us a hand here?”

“I'm on my way, I'm on my way -” said Jacques recognizable voice.

“Boys!” said the other, “Help your uncle here!”

As Hermione heard this, another woman entered the door. This woman was taller than Aunt Glinda and wore a green owl neck sweater and matching earrings.

“Aunt Elphie!” Hermione squeaked as she flung her arms around her Aunt Elphaba.

“Oh, Hermione! Easy there!” said Elphaba, pushing her niece away. “I'm glad to see you too!”

Hermione smiled broadly while Alice greeted her mother with a kiss. As this happened, a few people entered led by her father and a sandy-haired man carrying a large trunk. Behind them were three boys, a short stout one, a tall one and the last one who looked like he played many sports. These three carried bags and luggage of many sizes.

“Need any help, dear?” Monica asked to Jacques.

“Yeah, we need lots and lots of help, thank you!” said the tall boy sarcastically, carrying two duffel bags to the living room. “In fact, I think a spot of iced tea would do the trick.”

“Drinking a cold drink in Christmas is murder.” The stout boy replied irritably as he pulled a stroller bag into the threshold.

“Hey, stop arguing and move!” spat the last boy outside.

“Who are they?” Harry asked behind Hermione.

“Oh, those are Aunt Glinda's children.” Hermione explained quickly. “I'll introduce you to them later. Where's Krista?”

“In the car looking for her teddy bear,” Aunt Glinda reckoned.

“Allie, help your cousins with the bags,” said Elphaba.

“No - no,” said Jacques, shifting the trunk to the living room. “Fierro, the boys and I got it.”

“Elves, you mean,” said the tall boy jokingly, wiping his forehead with the sleeve of his trench coat. “Ever since the trip, I've been treated like a servant boy!”

“Destined to be, if you ask me,” said a drawling voice from the door.

Everyone turned to see a handsome looking boy enter the house wearing headphones.

“Cynic as always, eh Jericho?” said the tall boy.

“That's Jericho,” Hermione heard Alice say to Harry. “The angelic brother I told you about.”

“Boys!” said Aunt Glinda sternly making her sons jump. “Show some manners and greet your relatives!”

Comically, the tall one hopped (or trotted, Hermione could not tell) as the stout and the other one followed.

“Aunt Monica,” the three greeted Monica by kissing her on the cheek one-by-one.

“Aunt Elphaba,” said the tall one hugging his aunt, “It's been awhile!”

“What are you talking about?” said Alice, chuckling, “You were with her the whole time!”

“Good point,” he said pointedly, pulled away, and smirked at Alice. “Just four days, Allie and I missed ya!”

As Alice kissed him on the cheek, the tall boy turned to Hermione and smiled broadly.

“Well, well, well, if it isn't Hermione!” he said happily.

Hermione waved back timidly. She realized she hasn't seen her other cousins for years now. Are they the same as the last time she met them?

“How's school?” asked the stout boy, appearing beside her.

“How's life?” asked the third of the brothers.

“And more importantly, how are the books I sent you last year for your birthday?” asked the tall one, crossing his arms.

Hermione laughed.

“I loved it,” she said, “I never knew you could find such a weird and funny book.”

“Five hours in the university library doesn't hurt,” he replied with a smile.

“Thank you,” said Hermione, turning to the stout boy, “Where's your sister?”

Cue to this, a small girl entered the threshold carrying a very large bag (bigger than her). Around her left arm was a white teddy bear dressed in a brown shirt.

“Right there,” said the tall boy. “Hold on - here, Krista, I'll help you.”

While helping the little girl named Krista, Hermione turned to the youngest of the boys.

“I thought Matt's coming?”

“He's outside helping with the luggage,” said the youngest. “I guess you can say we're all here and ready to go.”

The tall boy and his sister named Krista, walked over to them.

“Hi,” she said sleepily. “Sorry but I've been carrying bags.”

“Hi, Krista,” Hermione ruffled her hair. “How's soccer?

“She's paranoid she might miss the game next year,” said the stout boy. “Even if it's still two months later.”

Before Hermione could reply, she felt someone tug her skirt. Looking down, Mimi gazed at her for a few seconds before saying, “Who's he?” she pointed behind Hermione.

Hermione spun around and saw Harry hovering beside the stair railings awkwardly.

“A boy in Hermione's house?” said the tall one in mock disbelief, “Even I can't get a girl to stay in my house.”

“That's because the last one was too conservative,” the stout boy remarked.

“Oh,” Hermione said, walking to Harry and grabbing him by the wrist, “Er - he -” she pulled him towards them, “Is my best friend from school.”

Hermione pulled Harry in front of them and smiled at her cousins then to Harry who looked nervous.

“We can't call him `best friend from school' all the time, right?” the tall boy asked uncertainly.

Hermione giggled.

“No,” Hermione said, grabbing Harry by his hand inadvertently. “Why don't you introduce yourself?”

Harry turned to her as she nodded to him confidently. Harry gave in and sighed.

“I'm… er… Harry Potter.” He finally said quietly, “You can call me Harry.”

“Nice to meet you,” said the four in unison.

“Harry,” said Hermione, gesturing to the three boys, “These are my cousins from the United States. That's Kelvin,” she pointed to the stout boy who nodded courteously, “that's Kent,” she pointed to the tall one, “and the youngest of the three boy,” she pointed to the other, “is Kline. The little girl there is their sister, Krista.”

“Pleasure to meet you all,” said Harry, smiling slowly.

“Pleasure is ours,” said Kent, shaking Harry's hand. “This will be an interesting holiday, I see.”

“Argh!” yelped someone from the door.

Everyone turned to see another boy, who just stumbled, picking up a sack of something Hermione can't tell.

“If you're wondering, that's Matt,” said Kelvin, “Another brother in the family.”

“Hey Matt!” Kent called, “Hermione says hi and wants you to say hi to her best friend from school!”

“H-hey!” he waved while awkwardly walking to place the sack among the bags. “Pleasure to meet you!”

“Hi!” squeaked Mimi and Didi, walking in front of Harry.

“This is Mimi and Didi,” Hermione said, giggling. “They're twins.”

“Yeah, I can see that,” Harry smirked as he looked down the two girls who were looking up at him.

“I'm Mimi!” said the blonde girl with a mole on her cheek.

“I'm Didi!” said the other girl who had a lack of a mole.

“For your consideration,” said Kent, “we decided to mark them with a large M and D on their foreheads but Aunt Elphaba pointed out the mole connection.”

“A shame,” said Kline, chuckling. “It would've been funny.”

“I think it's childish,” said Kelvin seriously.

“Oh c'mon, it's like everything I think up of is childish!” said Kent jokily, waving a hand impatiently.

“Last time you thought of something childish nearly brought the apartment to shreds. I can't have decent time reading.” Kelvin pointed out.

“Boys,” said Glinda, walking up to them, “Are you arguing again?” she said with a stern face. Her face immediately softened when she saw Harry. “Oh!” she eyed at him confusingly and looked at Hermione. “Who's the boy, Hermione?”

“H-Harry, ma'am,” said Harry quickly. “I'm Harry Potter. Hermione's best friend from school. Hermione told me about you.”

“Oh, did she?” Glinda beamed at Hermione. “Well, it looks like Hermione chooses her friends wisely.”

“Study buddy, you mean,” said Kent, winking at Hermione. “I mean, you did meet him in the library, right?”

“Kent!” Glinda spat, “Don't tease Kiwi about her love of books!”

“It's okay, Aunt Glinda,” said Hermione apologetically, “I'm fine with it now.”

“See?” said Kent in realization. “I told you Hermione matured! But nooo you told me to shut my tongue and -”

“Oh, shut up,” said Glinda, rolling her eyes then turned to Harry, “Now why don't you help your uncles with the rest of the luggage?”

“Elf-wise?” Kent sighed in defeat, “C'mon boys! We have work to do.”

As Kent turned away, Kline and Kelvin said their parting words and went back to help with the rest of the luggage.

“Anyway, it's nice to meet you, Harry.” Glinda said, turning to Harry. “I hope we'll all get to know each other during the holidays.”

“I'm looking forward to it,” said Harry politely.

“Such a gentleman!” said Glinda happily. “Latch unto him, would you, Hermione? He's quite a catch of a boy.”

Hermione smiled nervously and released her grasp from Harry's hand.

“Who's quite a catch?” said Elphaba, looking at Harry. “And you are?”

“His name is Harry Potter, Elphie,” said Glinda. “Be nice to him.”

“Of course I will,” said Elphaba sweetly, walking up to Harry. It just dawned to Hermione how tall Aunt Elphaba was. “Besides, I'm great with kids.”

“Just make sure you don't scare him,” said Glinda sternly, “You can be a bit -”

“Wow, you have brilliant green eyes,” said Elphaba, blatantly ignoring Glinda.

“- forward at times,” Glinda said while she hung her head slightly.

Hermione giggled and remembered Glinda's intolerance of Elphaba's antics back when the two were at secondary school years ago.

“M-my eyes?” Harry asked innocently, putting his hands behind his back. “Er - thank you.”

“I told you my mom loves green,” said Alice, walking in between the two. “Mom, this is the `charming new friend' I mentioned!”

“I can see that,” said Elphaba, beaming down at Harry. “You seem quite shy though.”

“He's just nervous around new people,” said Alice, winking at Harry.

“Give new people some space and they'll be fine,” said a sandy-haired man who appeared at the shoulder of Elphaba.

“Harry!” Alice said, dragging Harry by the wrist, “Meet my dad.”

“Fierro,” he nodded with a toothless grin. “Nice to meet you,” he added as he lifted his hand to shake.

“Pleasure,” Harry said, taking his hand quickly.

“Dad, this is the boy I was talking about,” said Alice, gesturing Harry. “In my last email, remember?”

“Ah yes, I think I remember,” he looked at Harry with a friendly nod. “You must be Hermione's best friend then.”

Harry gazed at Hermione who nodded to her Uncle Fierro.

“Y-yeah,” Hermione stepped forward beside Harry. “He's my best friend… he came here with me for the holidays….”

“Actually,” said Alice, “Harry was supposed to go to Sweden -”

“Romania,” Harry corrected her.

Alice paused and blushed.

“Sorry,” she winced apologetically at Harry.

“It's fine,” said Harry, “Anyone can make mistakes… you're just er -”

“Blonde,” Hermione said loudly before she could stop herself.

“What?” Harry, Elphaba and Fierro said in unison.

Hermione clapped her mouth, shook her head and took a step backward. Alice looked confused but eyed Hermione apprehensively.

“Never mind,” Hermione finally replied behind her mouth.

Luckily, the three shook it off (though Hermione swore she saw a glint of suspicion in Harry's eyes) and went back to talking.

“Anyway,” said Fierro, “Nice to meet you but we can talk later - Elphie,” he turned to her, “Your bag is there already.”

“Oh, thank you, honey!” Elphaba said then turned to Harry, “Well, I have things to attend to, alright? I'll get to know you more later, I hope.”

And with that, Elphaba and Fierro left the three. Hermione then felt someone grab her by the wrist as she spun to the kitchen. Harry released her grasp and looked at her anxiously.

“What was that for?” said Hermione irritably.

“I heard what you said about Alice,” said Harry quietly.

Hermione blinked but did not reply.

“Did you say `Blonde'?” Harry asked.

“No,” Hermione lied immediately, “Why on earth would I say that?”

“For your information, Hermione,” said Harry, “Alice is a smart girl. As smart as you, to be honest.”

“I didn't call her blonde,” Hermione lied.

“You did,” said Harry, “Don't lie to me, Hermione.”

Hermione bowed her head and heard Harry “tisked” impatiently.

“Why are you doing this to Allie?” Harry asked desperately. “You've been nothing but mean to her, if you ask me.”

“Just drop it, Harry,” Hermione spat angrily. “I don't want to get into another argument with you.”

“But can you at least tell me why? Obviously, there is something wrong here.”

“Nothing is wrong, Harry,” Hermione pushed on.

“C'mon, I might help you.”

“No,”

“Please?”

“I won't,”

“Fair enough just don't go on lying to me,” said Harry darkly.

Hermione crossed her arms and glared the floor.

“Hermione,” Harry said, he sounded angry now as he spun her to face him, “Don't lie to me.”

Hermione realized that Harry was holding her tightly around the wrist. His grip was too strong that she winced while her eyes were on Harry.

“Y-you're hurting me,” Hermione spoke softly.

The two turned their gaze below and Harry briskly let go off her.

“I'm sorry,” said Harry, “I - I didn't mean to -”

“Harry!”

The two Gryffindors turned as Alice slid across the kitchen towards Harry.

“My mom is calling you! The family wants to get to know you!” she said enthusiastically.

Harry shot a look to Hermione. He looked at her then at her wrist that she massaged gradually. Hermione looked at Harry with apprehension and nodded to him.

“I think you need to get acquainted to them,” said Hermione enigmatically. “Come,”

Leading the two, Hermione led Alice and Harry to the living room. The whole family was there, sitting at the couches and armchairs, exchanging stories and what not. Hermione rubbed her wrist as it throbbed.

“I - I need to go to the bathroom.” Hermione said, not looking at Alice and Harry, “Excuse me,”

She steered herself not for the first floor bathroom but went upstairs to her room. Shutting the door, Hermione leaned on the door and looked at her wrist.

No, Hermione… it's not like that! It's not like before… not like that… you didn't even burn anyone….

Hermione rubbed her temple annoyingly and assured herself one important fact.

This is the present, that was the past. Harry just acted on natural reaction, that's all!

She groaned and leaned her head back that it touched the door.

“Go down and act civil now… no blonde jokes.”

Without further ado, she brushed the front of her long skirt and left the room.

* * *

During the first hours of their arrival, Hermione got around to be with Harry to help him get to know her relatives more. Much to her delight, Alice wasn't available since she had to help her mother with some thing related to luggage.

But before they could even do so, Hermione swallowed every bit of her own embarrassment and faced Harry before they left the kitchen (the area where she saw him after she left the room).

“Hey…” she said, “Harry?” She smiled feebly at him as he drank his glass of water.

“Hmmm?” he asked, raising his eyebrows, gulping the water down.

Hermione looked away a bit, bit her lip as she interlocked her fingers together.

“Ummm… I just want to say….”

“Save it,” said Harry, putting the glass down.

“What?” Hermione looked up. To her surprising delight, he was smiling.

“I said save it,” he walked up to her, “You know… shut up.” He chuckled. “Because if we both know what's best for the both of us and that is to shut up, right?”

While taken aback at this, Hermione knew what he meant and nodded.

“But can I at least let you know…?” she said quietly.

“Know what?”

“That I'm sorry about awhile ago.”

“It's not big deal,” said Harry, scratching his nose. “Let bygones be bygones.”

Something was up. Hermione observed Harry's features and noticed he looked normal but gave off the air of something strange.

“What's wrong?” Harry asked.

Hermione's brows furrowed and asked, “Did something happen while I was away?”

“What do you mean?” said Harry.

“You're looking too happy and you got me off the hook easily.” Hermione pointed out.

Suddenly, Harry laughed and said, “I don't know what you're getting Hermione but whatever it is, it's nothing really. I just want us to enjoy the season.”

It seemed like a fair answer. Hermione would not want to spend the next week in animosity with her best friend but she can't help but feel a bit curious on why Harry felt different right now.

“Anyway,” she continued, dropping the subject, “I was thinking to let you get to know my relatives more.”

“Ummm, sure but if you're going to let your Aunt Elphie talk to me then you're going to get a lot of interesting stuff.” Harry said.

“What's wrong with my Aunt Elphie?” Hermione asked defensively.

“Nothing bad,” Harry raised his hands in defense, “While you were away, she couldn't get enough of my eyes.”

Hermione laughed.

“I told you she loves green.”

“She can be pretty creepy about it, if you ask me.” Harry made a mock shiver and laughed. “But I like her. She's very nice.”

“So, would you like to get this over with and talk with the others?” Hermione asked, “They are going to love you, I'm sure of it.”

“Fine,” said Harry, holding on to her shoulder, “But only if you allow me to call you `Kiwi' without you complaining about it.”

Hermione's eye twitched.

“You clever little sneak,” said Hermione, glaring at Harry. “But fine, if that will keep you from begging to call me that like a lost puppy.”

“Deal,” said Harry, taking out what's left in the glass. “Let's meet them now, shall we?”

Hermione smiled and followed Harry out of the kitchen only to stop when Harry turned.

“Oh yeah,” said Harry, his hands about to open the double swing doors of the kitchen into the dining room. “Do you know why I got you off easy?”

Hermione looked at him quizzically. Harry looked at her enigmatically, smiled sweetly and said, “Because she told me that you wouldn't enjoy a second of your Christmas without your best friend by you.”

“She? My mum?” Hermione winced. Why would her mother get into this?

“No,” said Harry, chuckling, “Alice told me.”

Hermione's jaw dropped slightly before she could reply. She took a double take and blinked a bit before replying.

“A-Alice?”

“Yeah,” said Harry, distractedly, “Hermione?”

“What?”

“Shall we?” he gestured to the door, “Your family can't wait long.”

Shaking off whatever she felt now, Hermione nodded and followed Harry out of the kitchen through the swinging doors.

* * *

Summer 1991.

The sun shone brightly over the park which was located near Hermione's home. It was a great day for Hermione to spend time with Alice outside instead of being in the house all day. The two sat right by the tiled walkway that slithered across the small park eating blue colored popsicles, which Hermione called “Sea Salt Ice Cream”.

“They taste funny,” said Alice, sniffing her popsicle.

“They do but you'll get the hang of it when you spend time eating it,” Hermione replied, licking her own.

“I guess,” said Alice, hesitatingly opening her mouth to suck on the ice cream. She let it out quickly and groaned.

“What's wrong, Allie?” Hermione turned to her cousin.

“I'm sorry but I can't really get into it…” she sighed, “I'm so sorry, Kiwi.”

“Don't be,” said Hermione, reaching for Alice's popsicle as her cousin handed it to her, “At least I have two now,” she giggled.

Alice eyed Hermione calmly which Hermione caught.

“What's with the look?” she asked.

“Nothing,” said Alice, “I just feel happy that you're still being yourself even after that Hogwarts problem.”

“I really don't need it to be a problem, to be honest,” said Hermione, “Besides, it could be a prank set up by mean boys.”

“But how about the weird things that you mentioned to me?” Alice asked, “I know they are things that can't be answered yet but you can't deny that they happened!”

“I really have no idea, Allie…” said Hermione, turning to her cousin. “I just hate it that there's a small part of me that thinks that I should push further into figuring it out… I have no idea what to do….”

“You'll figure something out,” Alice said, tapping her lap, “I know you probably won't but telling your mom and dad is the best thing you'll ever do.”

“I know… but I'm scared,” said Hermione, “But what am I scared about? I mean, they must think I'm mental.”

“Remember the saying, Kiwi: `the sanest person in the world is the one who admits he's crazy'.”

Alice made a point. Hermione did admit once that she might be crazy… but would that make her sane? The thematics behind Alice's saying made Hermione's brain rattle.

“Are you alright, Hermione?” Alice asked, kindly. “You're rubbing your temples again.”

“I'm fine, Allie,” she said, “I'm just… somewhat indifferent about all this, that's all….”

Alice placed a hand on Hermione's and beamed at her cousin.

“Everything is going to be fine, Kiwi… I'll be there by your side, alright?”

It was more than enough to keep Hermione in check. As long as she has her cousin's support, nothing will ever go wrong.

Well, except for one thing.

“HEY!” yelled a mockingly loud voice.

The voice that sent a thousand shivers of shock and anguish down Hermione's spine echoed across the park. From where the two girls sat, Hermione turned a dreadful head and saw the last two people she wouldn't want to meet.

“K-Kiwi?” Alice asked anxiously, “Who are they?”

As Dustin and Lyle, two of Hermione's most hated boys in the world, walked up the walkway, one of them was juggling a large ball that looked much like a softball. Hermione looked wary and scooted closer to Alice.

“Well, well, well!” said Dustin, disgustingly wiping his sweat from his forehead, “If it isn't Granger the Stranger!”

Hermione hushed Alice the moment she heard her cousin's gasp at such an insult. This was the one thing she would never want her cousin to see: her two bullies.

“What do you want?” Hermione asked, acidly. She wasn't going to back down from them that easily.

Alice is here… I can't let them harm her….

“Nice question,” said Lyle, pulling up his shorts arrogantly as he walked right in front of Hermione, “I think it's pretty easy to know what it is, eh Granger?”

Hermione glared at Lyle before someone suddenly wrenched her ice cream from her arm.

“HEY!” she heard Alice squeal.

“Nice ice cream pop!” said Dustin, smacking his lips at it. “It's free, right?”

“Why you - ?!” Hermione screeched and tried to reach for Dustin but was interrupted when Lyle instantly grabbed the other popsicle from her grasp.

“KIWI!” Alice screamed.

“Nice catch, eh?” said Lyle, laughing his ass off. “Free popsicles and making sure we'll get a cry out of you!”

Hermione was in utmost rage. She stood up and glared at the two.

“What now, Granger?” Dustin asked, smirking.

“LEAVE US ALONE!” Hermione yelled.

“Us?” Lyle looked at her stupidly.

“Oi, Lyle! Look-y here!” said Dustin, pointing to Alice sitting stiffly on her chair. “Another Granger?”

“Leave her alone!” Hermione growled, stepping in front of Dustin's way.

“K-Kiwi, please… don't get hurt.” Alice spoke behind her.

“It must be her sister!” said Lyle, mockingly. “Hey Dust, you think she too ain't right in the - ”

“I SAID LEAVE HER OUT OF THIS!” Hermione yelled.

Thankfully, the park was almost next to empty. Being the in the center of it, Hermione would doubt that anyone would hear them.

“Ooooh,” the boys said in unison. “Granger the Stranger is putting up a fight!”

“Stop calling her that!” Alice suddenly shouted on her seat.

Hermione spun around and held Alice by her arms.

“Please, Allie, don't get involved….” Hermione said in a voice filled with urgency. “I can handle this.”

“But - “

“Just sit down, Allie.” Hermione said, “I don't want you to get hurt.”

“Of course she wants you sit down,” said Lyle, “Because Granger here doesn't want your support!”

“I said shut up, Lyle!” Hermione turned on her heel to glare at Lyle.

“Whatever,” said Lyle, biting off the popsicle.

“Eh,” Dustin waved a lazy hand at Hermione, “It's better that you stand for yourself since the image of you having a `friend' to help you is utterly daunting.”

Hermione clubbed her fist but stood her ground.

“Anyway, back off!” barked Dustin as he shoved Hermione out of the way, Lyle passing them by to approach Alice.

“HEY!” Hermione yelled, trying to push Dustin out of the way to go to Alice, “Don't - don't you dare - !”

“K-kiwi…” Alice shrunk at the size of Lyle.

Alice is not a fighter… Hermione, do something!

“Lookie here, Dust!” said Lyle, bending over Alice, “This one here's a beauty, ain't it?”

Hermione caught Alice's fearful face, her cerulean blue eyes terrifyingly turning from the closeness Lyle's face to Hermione's brown eyes.

Allie….

Hermione didn't know why but it was at this moment in between the very pinch of time and space that she was undeniably angry. The look of helplessness in her most beloved cousin's eyes was the one thing she could never stand….

The idea of Alice being hurt… it was one thing she would never want to see.

“Why don't you stand up?” mocked Lyle, in a loud voice. “Are you scared - ?”

“I SAID.” Hermione finally yelled, shoving Dustin away, “LEAVE. HER… ALONE!”

BANG! BANG! BANG!

In the sudden moment of time, a blinding flash temporarily blurred Hermione's vision as the familiar sounds of fire and screaming echoed across the sky.

“AAHHH!! KIWI!”

The sound of her cousin's voice brought Hermione's vision into full. Looking at the scenario before her, Hermione couldn't tell what was happening….

Dustin's and Lyle's heads were burning in a turmoil of flame and fury. Their arms flailed madly as they danced on the spot, Alice scooting back on her seat.

“AAHHHHHH!!! ARGH!!” yelled the two boys in torment.

Then she saw it again, on their heads… dancing blue bell flames.

Oh no….

The boys writhed everywhere wildly that they ran across the parkway walkway to jump at the nearby pond to extinguish the fire.

But it wasn't over.

BASH!

Hermione jumped and fell on the ground as two trash bins flew out of nowhere towards the boys knocking them off their feet. The two screamed as their heads burned.

It was too much for Hermione now.

But it wasn't over… not yet.

As the boys stood on their feet frantically for the pond, which was just a pinch away from them, a couple of stones emerged from the shorelines of the pond as if an invisible person held them. The rocks looked marginally smaller than a soccer ball but it was big enough to knock someone out cold.

Is it going to aim at their skulls!?

The boys arrived on the shoreline, heads ablazing, preparing to take the dive but the sight of the two floating rocks before them made them freeze.

Figuring out at how chaotic this will end up being, Hermione quickly yelled.

“NO - WAIT!” she raised her hand at the general direction of the boys.

In a split second, the rocks fell right on the shoreline in a squishy thud.

Alice gasped. Hermione's eyes widened, ignoring the yell of the boys as they jumped into the pond, extinguishing their heads' at last.

The park echoed with nothing but the splashing and the yelping of the boys. Hermione say there, frozen at what just happened….

Did I… just stop those rocks - ? No, impossible.

She felt numb. Hermione just sat there on the ground feeling as if she just froze over.

“Kiwi?”

Hermione snapped her neck towards Alice, both unharmed but shaken, her face looking anxiously on her seat.

At the distance, the boys emerged from the pond at the other side and ran, crying about as they went. Their heads looked charred and ashy and from the looks of things, they probably would be in pain for the long months to come.

“What just happened `ere?” said a man's voice to Hermione's right.

Hermione looked up and saw a man with a handsome face. He was tall, had long brown hair and his features looked rough to smooth.

“I -,” Hermione finally spoke.

“What are you doing down there?” the man asked, looking down at Hermione.

Hermione immediately stood up and fixed herself. She walked over to Alice and sat beside her. From the looks of things, Alice looked shaken and shocked but she did not show any signs of crying.

“Are you alright, Allie?” Hermione asked quietly, putting an arm around her cousin.

Alice turned to Hermione with a curious expression. Whatever it was, Hermione knew what it meant….

At the corner of her eye, she noticed the man looking at them with a face of concern.

“Y-yes?” Hermione asked, turning to him. “Do you need anything?”

“N-nothing in particular,” he said, his voice with a light Scottish accent. “Is she alright?”

Hermione looked at Alice and nodded to the man.

“We're fine, thank you,” said Alice quietly.

The man smiled. For some reason, he gave off the air of comfort. Something was different about him.

“Those two boys giving you a hard time, yeah?” he said, crouching before them so his eyes were level to the two girls.

The two girls did nothing but nod at him. The man chuckled and reached for his pockets.

“Here,” he handed Alice a kerchief, “You look like you've been burned.”

Hermione now noticed that Alice had some blackened hands. Did the blue-bell flames catch her too?

“They're not burns,” said Alice kindly, “But thank you.”

The man nodded and stood up, pocketing the kerchief as he did.

“Well, as long as I know that you two young girls are healthy, I guess I have to take a move on,” he said, grinning.

“T-thank you, sir,” said Hermione, “for, you know, checking on us….”

“Don't mention it,” he said, putting his hands on his knees, “I had bullies in my time… but I wouldn't flame them to hell now, would I?”

Hermione shot a look at the man, who winked at her. Hermione looked down and noticed a wooden stick sheathed in his pocket… like a wand?

“N-no,” she said, looking up at him, “I don't think it would be… nice.”

He laughed heartily and fixed his rucksack over his shoulders.

“Excellent then,” he smiled at the girls, “Oh, look at the time - I must be going then. So… see you in another life, yeah?”

He waved at the two girls and began his trek down the walkway.

“Wait!” Hermione got out of her seat, calling out the man.

He turned to her and raised his eyebrows at her.

“What's your name, mister?” she asked innocently.

There was a few seconds before he gave out another smile and spoke.

“It's Desmond,” he answered and with a final wave, he turned on his heel and walked off.

Hermione wanted to call out to him but out of stress and the pinch of reluctance, she closed her mouth and did nothing but watch Desmond disappear at the distance.

* * *

There was nothing but talk and bonding that day. Hermione got Harry and her relatives to know each other more for the early parts of the afternoon.

She had to expect it but their questions were rather too much.

Hermione, Harry and her four cousins (Aunt Glinda's sons, according to Kent, Krista was fast asleep in the guestroom) sat at the living room while the rest were busy with things (“Packing, I guess,” thought Hermione.).

“How long have you known Hermione?” asked Kent, sitting on the couch, looking tired. Hermione realized that they must be experiencing jetlag.

“Seven years now,” said Harry, seated at the armchair facing the three sons of Aunt Glinda. “In fact, she's one of the first best friends in my life.”

“I see,” Kent nodded and chuckled. Hermione, seated on the arm of the armchair, rolled her eyes.

“Oh God, Kent,” she said, “The day I find you with nothing interesting to say, I'm going to eat kiwifruit.”

“I'm sorry, I just have jetlag problems, alright?” he pointed out, shaking his head from drowsiness.

“Kent is usually talkative,” said Hermione, looking at Harry, “and tends to have something to say about everything.”

“Not everything,” said Kent, leaning forward, “My mom wanted to say a speech during her birthday two years ago, remember that Kline?”

“I dunno,” he made shrugged his shoulders, his eyes set on a Rubik's cube.

“Yeah, you dunno anything,” said Kent sarcastically and moved to Harry, “Anyway, I just couldn't say anything because there are times I could go about unexpectedly obnoxious.”

“Oh,” said Harry with uncertainty. “I see….”

“See?” Kent gestured to Harry, looking at Hermione, “We're both speaking the same dialogue to each other that I think we might even want to do something else!”

“Oh, shut it,” Hermione waved a hand at him. “The only thing you want to do is sleep instead of catching on with long lost relatives!”

“We send emails every week, Kiwi!” said Kent in aghast, “It's not like we don't see each other everyday (though we do realistically speaking.)”

“See? He has a say on everything,” Hermione said to Harry, laughing. “But don't worry because whatever he has to say, they make him loveable.”

“Speaking of `loveable,” said the cousin, his stupor getting the most of him as his voice sounded offhanded. “Sorry but,” he laughed, “But I have to ask out of curiosity… but have you two ever got together?”

“Nope,” said Harry casually.

Hermione furrowed her brows. “That's a bit beyond the line, isn't it Kent?”

“You told me to say something interesting!” he raised his hands defensively.

“Ayyy…” Kelvin sighed as he stood up, “Would you excuse me but I have to ask mom about my books.”

Harry passed a quizzical look at Kent who answered, “He has midterms after holidays so yeah,” he nodded humorously, “he's going to ask Santa an interesting present.

“But you still haven't answered my question, Hermione,” said Kent.

“If Harry said no, obviously it would make my answer the same,” said Hermione, glaring.

“Well, you might say he could be boyfriend but he doesn't know about it.” Kent said awkwardly, “I mean… it happened to Kline here during our days of grade school.”

“But still, it's illogical for you to say such things.” Hermione retorted.

“I'm taking this question and cutting all corners,” said Kent, “I mean, you might be doing it right now.” He turned to Harry, “Hey, have you noticed anything strange or romantic about Hermione?”

Harry looked at Hermione and squinted at her.

What? He's actually taking his question seriously?

A glint of suspicion rose in Harry's green eyes. What was that?

Oh God, he's actually thinking I'm showing something romantic towards him?

“Well?”

“I can't tell,” said Harry.

“Ah! I can't tell,” Kent shook his head, “Tsk, tsk, tsk. That's not a good sign, Hermione…”

“Fine,” Hermione crossed her arms, “My answer is `No'!”

“I love you, cousin dearest,” Kent blinked lovingly at her.

“Squatter,” Kline said, shaking his head at his brother all the while solving his Rubik's cube.

“Moving on,” said Hermione, uncrossing her arms, her anger ebbing away. “If you don't know, we're spending the rest of the vacation at Grand-père. Starting tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?” Kline's eyes widened, “I just unpacked at the guest room.”

“You dropped your bag and left the room. That's not unpacking!” Kent exclaimed. “I should be the one who should be shocked, I unpacked the Nintendo 64 already.”

“Your loss, cousin dearest,” said Hermione, laughing.

“Yeah, laugh all you want…” said Kent in mock sadness, “no one knows the sufferings of a man who packs….”

After another moment of bonding, the rest of the day drove on with everyone getting ready for the departure for the country home. Hermione was feeling quite happy that she gets to spend the whole day with Harry packing in her room for the trip tomorrow.

But something bothered her….

Why did Harry look at her suspiciously when Kent asked the question if she showed off anything “romantics” towards him?

It's not like I'm showing any but… have I?

Don't be stupid, she thought.

You did show some sort of signs that could've been misinterpreted….

Like?

Your kiss last night before you went to bed, remember?

I wouldn't call that romantic….

Don't be stupid.

“Hey,” said Harry.

Hermione turned to him and saw he was handing her a cardigan.

“This is yours,” Harry continued, “I found it among my stuff last night.”

Feeling a bit dazed from her inner mind argument, she distractedly took the cardigan and folded it silently.

He wouldn't think that was something romantic, right? I mean, it was just a kiss on the cheek.

But it came after a dance, Hermione thought.

Bollocks.

She suddenly felt embarrassed at what she did. Her own consciousness took the best of her that she was already feeling borderline paranoid.

Calm down, Hermione. It's not like anything weird will happen. Harry is still here and he'll surely not ask a single thing about it.

“You okay, Kiwi?” Harry asked.

Quickly snapping out of it, Hermione nodded and added a smile to go.

“You sure?” said Harry, folding his clothes inside his trunk, “It looks like you've been thinking of something.”

The last thing Hermione wanted was a conversation regarding what happened last night. It was best that she steered to other topics.

“I've been thinking of my grandfather…” Hermione explained, “I haven't seen him in a while.”

“Oh,” said Harry, “For a second, I thought something dreadful has bothered you,” he added with a laugh.

“Very funny,” said Hermione, transferring her clothes from the trunk to a duffel bag.

“So what does your country home look like?” Harry asked.

“It's beautiful,” said Hermione, “It's not very far. Just a three to four hour trip is all it needs to get there.”

Hermione then went on how it was a great place to live in. It sat in a forested area with other houses. The two-story building was big enough to fit many people. From the front of the house, a double door welcomed guess into a foyer and living room beyond. According to her, the living room was a large room with a high ceiling that took the both the structures two stories.

To the left of the living room is where the kitchen and the dining room were. A set of stairs located near the dining room entrance led one to the upstairs portion of the house. This is where the rooms were located.

The backyard led to a wide porch fit for parties. Beyond the porch, there lay a small lake and a tree line leading into the deep forest. Apparently, the country home of her grandfather shares this small lake with three other houses so basically, the houses surrounded the lake like a wreath.

“What time are we leaving?” Harry asked.

“Five in the morning,” said Hermione, “I know it's too early but that's my father for you! Always an early bird.”

“Reminds me of someone I know,” said Harry, not meeting Hermione's eyes.

Hermione glanced at Harry and grinned, shaking her head at his remark.

“By the way, I like your relatives,” said Harry, turning to her, “They're really nice and all.”

“Haha, thanks,” said Hermione, “I knew you'd love them.”

“In fact,” Harry continued, “I'm enjoying this trip so far.”

Hermione met Harry's eyes and saw he really meant it. The way he beamed at her, his kindness getting the most of him, it made Hermione happy.

“And mind you, I don't regret missing the Romania trip so…,” he cleared his throat, “Thanks, Hermione.”

Hermione felt Harry's hand on her shoulder, she didn't look at it but she really felt all his feelings from that simple touch. It was enough to make her go to Alice and give her a good “HA!” in triumph.

“There you go,” said Harry, dropping his hands, “You look happy now.”

“I am,” said Hermione quietly, hiding her broad smile from Harry by turning away to grab her sweater from the trunk.

Maybe because… you're here with me.

What was this feeling she was getting anyway? There was something lingering in her gut that told her she was experiencing some uncharted territory. Could it be… that her earlier frustrations over Alice spending time with Harry more than her caused some sort of secret happiness that she wants Harry to be with her?

I'm not afraid to think that… that I'm happy about being here with Harry.

But why should she be afraid? It's not like they're romantic feelings….

Yeah, I doubt Harry would think I am showing any signs…. I mean, I don't want to cause anything awkward.

But what was that small feeling behind her head? It kept prickling behind her back like a bothersome fly. Hermione couldn't deny it but ever since Alice arrived, she can't help but feel threatened that a girl like her has entered Harry's life. At this point, she doesn't want Harry to be with her out of hatred… but what does that make her?

It's not her place to tell Harry who to fancy or not... she has no control over that. So why in the world is she feeling so possessive over him? When Alice isn't around, she feels like being with Harry is almost a godsend… almost as if she really likes him.

And now, with the question raised by her cousin, she doesn't want anything awkward to happen between the Harry and her, if Harry does suspect anything.

WHAT IS THIS FEELING?! Oh, my Merlin, I'm so confused.

Maybe she needs to cut some slack and relax.

Yeah, I'm overthinking too much. God! I can't believe I'm letting a question and some run-of-the-mill idea get the better of me. So silly, Hermione….

“I need to go to the bathroom.” Harry finally said, folding the last of his clothes into a duffel bag Hermione lent him. “Be back in a few minutes.”

Harry stood up, and walked out on the threshold only to bump into Alice at the hallway.

“Oh, Allie,” said Harry, his voice becoming suddenly hoarse. “I - er - was going to go to the bathroom.”

“I see,” she replied, “Hey, I haven't talked to you today.”

“Y-yeah, I noticed,” Harry scratched the back of his head awkwardly.

“Don't worry, we have lots of time when we reach Grandpa tomorrow,” said Alice.

There goes the feeling again. Hermione suddenly felt a small jolt of annoyance over Alice's airy attitude.

It is as if she is high as a kite….

“Oh, I better go,” Harry said quickly, thumbing behind him, “So - um, later.”

“Later then,” Alice said.

Hermione did not want to further anything else with Alice so she decided to finalize the packaging of her duffel bag, taking only what she needed (read: lots of books). It was only a matter of time until she felt that familiar feeling of being watched.

“What do you want?” Hermione asked stiffly, knowing very well who was still standing by her door.

Wheeling around, she saw Alice looking back at her with an air of indifference and sternness.

“Well?” Hermione asked.

Surprisingly, instead of a retort, Alice walked into the room and handed Hermione a red box with the size of a shoebox.

“Er - Mom wanted to give you this,” she said, “She told me to tell you to not open it until Christmas Eve.”

“Sure,” said Hermione, taking the red box rather quickly, “Tell her I said thanks.”

Setting the box in a small space in her duffel bag, she still felt Alice being there.

“What is it?” Hermione looked up at Alice, who was standing before her. “Can you see that I'm busy?”

“I just wanted to ask you one question,” Alice said, suddenly looking red in the face.

“Fire away, I don't have all day,” said Hermione, standing up to check her drawers for any thing she might have missed.

“It's about Harry.”

Hermione froze, half opening the second drawer.

“Yeah, I knew you would stiff up like that….” Alice said quietly.

“What about Harry?” Hermione asked conversationally, keeping her voice even.

“Er…,” said Alice hesitantly.

Just spit it out already!

“If you're going to ask me if he is single then congratulations,” said Hermione, closing and opening the drawers randomly. “Because Harry is quite free.”

“Um, quite?”

Quite? Do you have to nitpick my statements?!

“It means, Alice,” Hermione turned on her heel to face her, “that he's not in the burden of a female companion AKA, a girlfriend.”

“Oh…,” said Alice, “I see….”

“Anything else?” Hermione asked lamely, not catching Alice's deep-in-thought stance.

“Nothing,” she replied, “I'll be going now.”

Good riddance.

“Make sure you open that present on Christmas Eve,” said Alice from the door, “Aunt Glinda says it's important you should do so.”

Hermione sighed as Alice finally left. Looking back, it feels strange for Alice to be in the same room with her but even stranger that Alice was less cocky than before. In fact, the trademark serenity that Alice tends to emanate got to the bookworm in a non-negative way.

I'll never understand that woman.

Likewise, Alice would probably never understand what she feels about her right now… unless of course, a miracle happens.

Hermione couldn't bare it but as the number of days Alice has spent time here in this house, the memories of the past tend to overwhelm her to a degree that made it look like as if fate wanted her to remember them.

* * *

Summer of 1991.

Hermione never stopped thinking about what she did yesterday.

You're thinking this too much, Hermione. You probably didn't do it.

How on earth did she make those blue flames appear?

There was obviously no explanation to it. As the young bookworm stared into the summer sky from her bedroom window, she played the mind game and remembered how much chaos she caused.

I did that, no doubt about it… But if I did do it then how much more can I do? I can't control it, it's like I'm… a mutant or something.

But how is this possible? No books can answer this! While she has encountered the paranormal in her past such as making her teddy bear float or see her classmate's hair turn red when he annoyed her, they all can't be explained by logic.

“Am I some experiment or something?” she asked herself.

The idea of being some government experiment crossed her mind. Could it be possible that during a forgotten memory, someone broke her free from the clutches of an experiment an left her here in this place she calls home?

That's stupid, Hermione.

But what if it were true? What if she is some mutant a group of people created? Maybe someone is monitoring her every move that if she were “ready”, they would take her from her family and make her do extraordinary things for their benefit.

STOP THINKING THAT, HERMIONE!

Hermione held onto her head and rubbed it vigorously. She wanted this big question to end.

Is there a mutant academy I can go to?

Speaking of academies, the letter from Hogwarts sprung up in her mind. Are the letters and her so-called “powers” connected? How could they know about her? Or is this just one big prank?

I can't turn away from what I know… this can't be a prank.

Maybe this school of “witchcraft and wizardry” is the answer to her problems. Connecting the dots, it's probable that her “powers” are currently uncontrollable and that this school can help her control it.

But I can't assume it's real.

True, she can't just say that there is a school that teaches magic because the idea of a place where people teach kids to pull a rabbit out of there hat sounds like a big waste of time.

The evidence of what I can do shows that there is a possibility that it exists….

“You've been quiet for the past day, Kiwi.”

Hermione snapped out of her reverie and turned to Alice.

“I've been thinking a lot, Allie,” said Hermione, sitting on her bed.

“I've been thinking too,” said Alice, “About what you assume you did.”

“Really?”

“Yeah,” said Alice, “I don't know about you but I think you're actually… `special'.”

Hermione did not say anything so Alice continued.

“What I'm trying to say is… if you are like this… maybe it's uncontrollable.”

So, Alice has been thinking the same thoughts, Hermione thought.

“And that this school, Hogwarts, is the best way to know how to control it.” Alice moved towards the dresser and took the Hogwarts letter from the drawer, “Kiwi, this could be the ultimate answer to all your questions!”

“But what about my doubts?” Hermione asked.

“Doubts? You can't deny it, Hermione,” Alice said, “You have something special inside of you, I can feel it.”

Honestly, Hermione can't deny it… but the whole thing seems too farfetched.

“I don't know, Allie,” Hermione scratched her head, “It's just too much for me….”

“But Kiwi…”

“Look, Allie,” Hermione explained, “It's not just simple. What if I'm dangerous? What if this `school' turns me out for the worse? Like an experiment or something.”

“You're reading too much science fiction,” said Alice with concern.

I must be.

“Besides,” Alice continued, “I think this could be good for you… I mean, you get to be unique in the family.”

“But I don't want to be a freak,” Hermione blurted out.

“Freak?” Alice raised her eyebrows, “People can be different and not be labeled a freak. Look at me!”

Hermione wanted to laugh, she really wanted to but she was too confused and the utter idea of more people calling her a “freak” because of this made her somewhat angry.

“It's not like that, Allie…” Hermione said awkwardly.

“What? Just because two boys insulted you, does that make you any lesser of a person?” Alice said sternly. Hermione has never seen Alice this annoyed.

“No, not that…” said Hermione, “Alright, fine, those two boys? They've been bullying me for the past few years.”

Alice gave Hermione a look of pity.

“I…,” Hermione continued, “I didn't want you to know….”

“Why?”

The thought of “why?” boiled inside Hermione. Why would she let Alice know that for the past few years, she's been nothing but a human target for people just because she's different? She doesn't want Alice to know these things because these are the things that make her angry.

Hermione would never want to share some negativity to Alice, who has brought nothing but happiness in her life, because of the sole reason of insecurity. She did not want Alice to worry her too much too.

But she answered anyway.

“Because…” said Hermione, sadness in her voice, “…those boys made me miserable for a long time.”

Alice simply stared at Hermione with the same look of pity. Hermione, however, continued.

“For the past few years they've been nothing but a thorn on my side,” she breathed heavily, “They've hurt my feelings, humiliated me, damaged my reputation to others….”

“Kiwi…” said Alice, her eyes watering.

Hermione felt like crying too. She has never opened up about this issue to anyone.

“And just because of my differences, I'm suddenly a bad person?” Hermione said with contempt. “I just don't get it!”

The few words she wanted to let out in a long time, the feeling was unbelievably satisfying.

“Why?” she said quietly, looking at Alice, “Why am I like this, Allie? Why do people pick on me?”

“K-Kiwi… please don't beat yourself up,” Alice squeaked.

“I didn't want you to know because you'd be too worried about me…” said Hermione, “But you know what?”

Alice sniffed, which Hermione took as a response.

“When they burned and got hurt in the park the other day,” she said, her anger and sadness getting the best of her, “A small part of me made me feel that I… I enjoyed it.”

Hermione stood up slowly now.

“I enjoyed it.” Hermione said, her voice cracking up while her eyes turned watery. “I enjoyed… every bit of their pain….”

She looked at Alice, who was now in tears.

“You're not a bad person, Kiwi… don't think that!”

“But they deserved it!” Hermione blurted out. “Those boys over there who cried for their mothers deserved it! Sure, while I'm mortified at seeing all this happen right before my eyes but looking back, I think it's time they need to know their lesson!”

“Kiwi, stop that!” said Alice, “You'd never want to hurt anyone out of spite.”

“I don't care!” Hermione spat, tears rolling down her cheeks, “Maybe this, this magic school thing? You know, maybe this is why I have these powers! Maybe that's why I'm a freak! They've been tormenting me for the past few years and maybe it's time for me to show them what I'm made off.”

“Kiwi!” Alice moved forward to hold Hermione by the hand, “Calm down, won't you?! You sound like the bad guy now!”

Hermione was confused herself. At this side, knowing what she can do, maybe it's time she gave Dustin and Lyle a piece of her mind while on this side, she is shocked at her dark thoughts.

“Kiwi…” said Alice, stroking her cousin's hand, “Just… take the leap of faith… You can still be able to control this,” she handed her the Hogwarts letter, “What you've waited for… I mean, you can have all you ever wanted.”

“I know,” said Hermione darkly, “But… something has changed within me, something is not the same.”

“What do you mean?”

“I'm through with playing by the rules of someone else's game is what I mean!” said Hermione angrily.

“Kiwi!” Alice said loudly, feeling panicked. “Can't I make you understand? You're having delusions of grandeur!”

Hermione looked at Alice's cerulean blue eyes. The way they yearned for her cousin's peace of mind… something about it made her keep calm.

“Kiwi…” Alice moaned, “I love you, I don't want you to think this… you're given this special gift not to hurt anyone because you are not a bad person because you'll be as worse as the boys who bullied you if you hurt them.”

It was at this moment that Hermione calmed down. A wave of embarrassment hit her that she kneeled down and started crying.

“Oh God, Allie!” she sobbed, “I can't believe what I just said...!”

“Oh, Kiwi,” Alice said, hugging her cousin, “Shhh… calm down, it's alright… I'm here….”

Hermione hugged her cousin back and felt this rush of relief. While feeling dumb for blurting all her feelings out, letting them all out of her heart has healed her of the contempt she held towards most of her life.

“Look, we can figure this out, alright?” Alice said, “You're just frustrated at all this and you know what the only way to help you is? Taking that letter and showing it to your parents.”

Hermione wiped her tears and looked at the letter in her hands.

“But what if - ?”

“If my instincts tell me anything then I'm saying that they'll understand no matter what the cause because, Hermione,” said Alice, her face spreading to a smile. “They probably know more about you than you expect.”

Hermione giggled. Something she hasn't done in a long time.

“So…” said Alice, “Let's take the leap of faith and see where this letter takes us, alright?”

She placed a hand on her cousin's and said, “Because together, we're…”

“Unlimited,” Hermione finished. “We're unlimited.”

Oh Allie, what would I do without you?

* * *

“Hermione! Wake up!”

“I don't want to…” Hermione whined groggily, pulling the sheets over her.

“You sleep like a log,” said Harry's voice.

Hermione suddenly felt the sudden pull of her blanket bringing in a cold feeling that crawled on her body. She curled up instantly and shivered.

“Hey!” Hermione moaned, squinting against the light that Harry turned on, “Give that b-b-back,” she yawned.

Hermione sat up and reached for her blanket from Harry. Before she could grab it, Harry lifted it away from Hermione's grasp.

“Harry!” she moaned loudly and with a groggy moan, she fell on her pillows face first, trying to get some sleep.

“C'mon, Kiwi,” said Harry, “You told me to wake up early yesterday!”

Hermione felt Harry's fingers touch her toes.

“Wake up, Kiwi,”

“Mmmmmmm…” Hermione moaned. “Pull my toes first,” she replied sleepily.

In a pleasurable sensation, Hermione felt the satisfying crack as Harry pulled each of her toes, stretching them from being cramped overnight.

“Okay, that's done so wake up,” said Harry.

Hermione finally sat up and rubbed her eyes. Letting out one last yawn, she swung her legs off the bed and wore her fuzzy slippers.

“Breakfast is ready downstairs,” said Harry, standing beside her, “The bathroom is also free for you.”

Harry left her alone in the room, leaving the door open. From where she was sitting (while letting the drowsiness ebb away), the sound of people, the crackling of cooking food (“Must be eggs,” Hermione thought), footsteps and the distant running of water rang in her ears.

A minute later, Hermione sleepily trudged across the hallway with her clothes for the bathroom. By the end of the short trek, she found herself reaching for the brass doorknob to the bathroom when it opened to reveal Alice, newly bathed and dressed, her hair all wet.

“Oh,” she said, surprised to see the groggy Hermione, “Good morning.”

Not in the mood for any negativity, Hermione did not reply but gave way for Alice to leave.

Taking a hot shower was quicker than she anticipated since she found herself entering the dining room (feeling sleepy) to sit beside Harry.

“Good morning, Hermione,” said Aunt Glinda, who was still in her night gown, “Your mother is still getting ready so I decided to cook breakfast - here you go.”

Hermione noticed that Aunt Glinda was carrying a frying pan filled with sausages. Nodding to her aunt as a thank you, Hermione silently ate her breakfast, adding toast and butter as she went.

“You're quiet,” said Harry, squeezing butter between his toast bread.

“I'm sleepy,” Hermione replied in a dead-like sort of way.

“Didn't your bath wake you up?”

“No.” Hermione said calmly.

“You want jam for your toast?” Harry suggested.

Hermione nodded, staring into space as she chewed her sausages.

Ignoring that Harry was doing the honors to put jam on her toast, Hermione just relaxed and enjoyed the fact he was doing it for her.

“You're still awake?” said Aunt Glinda to a person at the dining room entrance.

“If the Greenwich Time Meridian told us anything…” said Kent's voice, sitting across Hermione along with Kelvin and Matt.

“Oh, drop it,” said Aunt Glinda, “Here, have some breakfast,” she slid a plate before Kent. “It's going to be a long way.”

“Figures,” he said, staring at his smiling bacon with two fried eggs for eyes.

“Done,” said Harry, putting her jam toast on her plate.

The bookworm absentmindedly thanked Harry and began eating her toast.

“Good morning, children!” said Hermione's father, all dressed and ready for the trip as he entered the dining room. “Fierro and I got the car ready so better hurry up with the breakfast!”

“Don't rush them, Jacques,” said Aunt Glinda. “Give them some time to gain their bearings.”

Yes, dad… please. I just woke up!

“Where's Fierro?” Glinda asked.

“He's loading the remaining luggage with Mimi and Dede,” said Jacques, going into the kitchen. “Is there coffee?”

“Yes, there is,” said Glinda, turning to Kent, “Where is Kline and Krista?”

“Upstairs, Kline's probably awake by now… as for Krista, I think she's taking a shower.”

“Kline's taking a shower,” said Hermione, sleepily staring into space, “Krista isn't.”

“Yeah, what she said,” Kent nodded, taking a bite of his sausage.

“Are you done with that, Harry?” Aunt Glinda asked politely, gesturing to Harry's empty plate.

“Yes,” said Harry, nodding respectfully in return before Aunt Glinda took the plate from him.

Without saying a word, Hermione left the dining room and dragged herself to the living room, slouching on the couch when she arrived. She never felt so sleepy; her eyelids were heavy and her eyes itched of tiredness. All she wanted was to sleep and get this road trip over with.

“Hey sleepy-head,” said Harry's voice from behind, leaning on the backrest of the couch.

Hermione leaned her head backward to look at Harry with her sleepy brown eyes.

“I'm sleepy, Harry,” Hermione moaned.

“We all are,” he replied, smiling down at her.

“Not you,” said Hermione turning away to stare at the curtained windows which showed the dark morning. “You look wide awake.”

“Well,” Harry walked around the couch to sit beside her, “I haven't slept yet.”

“Excellent,” said Hermione, blinking. “You're really pissing me off.”

“And why is that?” Harry cocked up an eyebrow curiously.

“Because you woke me from my beauty sleep while you still have the benefit to feel comfortably awake. Plus, you lied to me about sleeping early,” she turned to Harry with a mock glare, “I hate you.”

Harry laughed.

“You can sleep in the car,” said Harry.

“I rather choose the bed.” Hermione pointed out.

Without giving a single thought, Hermione slowly rested her head on Harry's shoulder.

“That's nice,” said Harry sarcastically, “Like I'm not going to complain.”

“I'm sleepy, Harry…” said Hermione.

Harry underestimated her; Hermione's really, really sleepy.

“Alright,” he said serenely, “umm… just sleep, alright? I'll wake you up when we leave.”

In response, she rubbed her cheek on his shoulder and closed her eyes, feeling her eyelids' muscles relax at the lack of work.

Finally….

For all it's worth, she felt relaxed and liked the feeling of Harry's soft shoulder against her cheek. A few moments later, she sniffed the scent from Harry's hair which was basically the same shampoo she uses.

Slowly, her comfort getting over her, she hugged Harry's arm lightly, ignoring the fact that the arm belonged to him.

Some minutes later.

“Kent!”

Hermione opened her eyes. She wasn't lying on Harry's shoulder anymore but on one of the throw pillows of the couch. Brushing a strand of hair from her face, she looked up to see Harry sitting beside her head, gazing up at the staircase behind them.

Who's yelling?

Alice walked down the staircase with an annoyed look.

“What is it?” Kent walked out of the dining room.

Alice defiantly held up a pair of slippers that was filled with what looked like peanut butter. Kent winced.

“Explain?” she said sternly.

“Fine, while you two weren't looking, I ate in the bedroom,” he replied with a hint of defense, “but out of the klutz in me, I got peanut butter all over your slippers.”

“Your words can't be any truer,” said Alice, “Do you know what you just did?”

“They're slippers only, Allie,” said Kent, turning to the dining room, “Our universal solvent, the water, can let that thing out before you know it! Geez, you fashionistas are crazy…” he added offhandedly before walking off.

With a sleepy stare, Hermione saw Alice grouchy look. It gave Hermione some sort of feeble satisfaction (it would've been greater if she was wide awake).

“He better pay for that,” Alice spat, going up the stairs again.

“While the two of you weren't looking?” Hermione asked, sitting up.

“Oh, Hermione!” Harry wheeled towards her, “You're awake - er - sorry?”

“What did he mean?” she yawned, “When he said `the two of you weren't looking'?”

Even if she was sleepy beyond reason, the blush across Harry's face gave it all away.

“Er…” Harry said, scratching his head, “Um… he's referring to me and Alice.”

To Harry, her face looked indifferent and her expression vague but behind that façade was a prickling annoyance.

“What did you do?” she said in a lazy drone.

“We just talked…” he smirked, “All night.”

No wonder you haven't slept.

That prickling annoyance began to throb harder than Hermione intended. Why the hell was she feeling this way whenever Harry interacts with Alice?

“What?” Harry asked, observing Hermione's expressionless face.

Not knowing why she did it, Hermione suddenly punched Harry on the shoulder so hard that Harry yelped.

“Ouch! Hermione!” he cried, holding on to his shoulder. “What was that for?!”

Hermione did not answer but left the couch to do a final check on her stuff.

* * *

Hermione found herself at the backseat (behind the passenger seat) of the family van leaning on her large soft pillow against the window, staring at the bluish sky. The dark sky looked very depressing.

I wish snow would fall… it would make things look more pleasant.

The guilt of hitting Harry enveloped her own being between the ten minutes she took her bag from her room to going into the car. It's not like she did it out of hating him….

I'm very sleepy!

That couldn't be a good reason. Her thoughts were as clear as day when she hit him.

But why? Why do I hurt him whenever he's with her?

Hermione looked to the left at the open door where she could see Mimi and Didi in cute little jackets helping their father pull some luggage into the other van.

Realizing it, she thought if Harry would sit here with her. It was probably a given… if only she didn't punch him but what else does he have? She can't imagine him sitting in the other van where the others will be staying.

I'll really, really hit the roof if Alice sits here with us.

Distant calls from the house could be heard. Hermione couldn't tell but they were probably about someone making sure they have everything ready.

“Hermonica? You're here already?” she heard the kind voice of her father.

Hermione looked in front and saw her father, who just opened the door of the driver's seat, carrying a small plastic box filled with chocolate mallows.

“This one's for the trip,” said Jacques, noting Hermione's curious face. “I'll leave it here. Don't you take one bite, alright?” he smiled at her.

Hermione smiled back before her father left. She wished he could start the car though; she always loved hearing the low humming of a vehicle while she sat inside it.

“Oh, there you are.”

It was Aunt Elphie, handing her two sandwiches.

“Your mother prepared two for everyone so here you go,” she said.

Hermione took them and looked at them rather vacantly.

“What's wrong, honey?” Aunt Elphie asked, catching her niece's expression. “Is something bothering you?”

“Huh? Oh, n-nothing, Aunt Elphie,” she forced a smile, “I'm just sleepy that's all.”

“Well, there's a road trip ahead of us,” Aunt Elpha replied, “You're right, you can use the sleep. You look very tired.”

“I'll be fine,” said Hermione.

“If you need anything, tell your Aunt Elphie, okay?” she said. “Okay, I've got to give these to the other van. See ya.”

Wrapping herself inside her blanket (she brought it with her from her bedroom), the bookworm wanted to take a last minute rest before everyone starts to leave.

Well, if only if she could rest….

The sound of a soft thud to her right made her turn. To her surprise, it was Harry.

Oh no… he looks really grouchy.

His brows look like they were knotted together, his face looking half-annoyed and the way he scooted on the seat to sit beside her felt negative.

She always hated something like this… whenever they share the same room but don't talk. It was more painful than most things.

Just say sorry to him.

Look at Harry with the corner of her eye, Hermione sighed. How hard is it for her to just turn and apologize?

Fear of rejection, I guess.

“I see you two are ready,” said Monica from the outside of the door. “Are your bags in?”

At the same time, Hermione and Harry nodded and gestured to the back of the van where their bags were.

“We'll be leaving in three minutes,” said Monica, “Jacques is just locking all the doors. Oh Harry, make sure you move aside for Alice.”

“Yes, Aunt Monica,” Harry replied.

Trying to hold in her chagrin, Hermione looked out the window. Snow started falling.

“We better get moving,” said her mother, looking up, “The snow might hinder our trip.”

“I doubt it would,” said the voice of Alice, carrying a yellow duffel bag that had a face on the side (the face looked like one of those popular cartoons Hermione saw. The face was rather cute with black round eyes, red cheeks, curvy mouth and pointy ears). “Since at this rate, snow wouldn't reach higher than our ankles before nine o'clock.”

“I'll take that,” said Hermione's father, appearing beside Alice to take her bag.

“Thank you, Uncle,” Alice said, climbing into the vehicle. “Hi, Harry!”

“Hi, Allie…” said Harry nervously, shifting on his seat.

“Looks like we can continue where we left off,” she giggled, “if you know what I mean.”

Whatever that meant, it made Hermione sick. What the hell?

“Y-yeah,” Harry nodded, brushing the top of his lap.

“Don't you have a pillow?” Alice asked, handing him one which she was holding, “Here, borrow mine.”

“N-no,” Harry pressed, “If I take yours, you won't have any.”

“Not really,” she said, showing a square yellow pillow on her other hand.

“Do you love yellow so much?”

“Maybe… but whenever I pick a color of something, like a bag or a dress, I always have the rest to share the same color! Strange isn't it?”

“No wonder you're wearing a yellow jacket and yellow shoes,” said Harry casually, looking at her low-top shoes. “They look - er - really nice.”

Hermione wanted to smack Harry at the head but the entrance of her parents from the front stopped her.

“Alright, children!” her mother said, settling herself at the passenger's seat, “Sorry to keep you waiting.”

“It's alright,” said Harry politely. “It's not a big deal.”

“You got the house keys, honey?” Jacques asked, starting up the engine.

The rattling of the keys answered his question, taking off the handbrake, he turned to the children.

“You got everything you need?”

“Yes,” said the three.

“Fasten your seatbelts then,” he turned to the front, “Off we go,” he said, smiling to them from the rearview mirror.

Please make this enjoyable than I intended it to be.

The sound of tires grazing on the tarmac rang in Hermione's ears and in one turn of the car, they were now on the move.

* * *

Her eyes opened from slumber.

Where am I?

Looking to the left, she saw nothing but forested area, zipping past her quickly before she could describe them. The low humming of the car and the faint sound of tires sliding across the road below them told her she was still traveling.

Feeling a throbbing pain from her neck, she shifted her sleeping position and felt more uncomfortable. Her bottom was a bit sore for sitting too long and she wished she brought a different pillow.

Looking to her right, Harry was wide awake, staring at the front with an unreadable look. Even if she couldn't tell, she knew Alice was asleep because if she were awake, Harry wouldn't look this calm.

“Where are we?” Hermione finally said.

“We're an hour away from there, Hermonica,” said her father. “Just take another nap and you'll find yourself traipsing into the country home door before you know it.”

Taking his word for it, Hermione thought it would be better to sleep again. Shifting her head to a comfortable position, she found it quite difficult to get a good angle for her to obtain that sweet spot for sleep.

I hate sleeping in the car.

Trying to twist her neck, it dawned to her that she didn't like sleeping with her head straight up. If she could bend her neck lower, she would be more comfortable.

“Stupid pillow,” Hermione muttered under her breath, punching it irritably.

She started to shift on her position until she felt someone watching her. Turning to look, it was Harry with a perplexed expression.

“What?” she asked.

“If you want,” he said unceremoniously, “you can use my shoulder.”

“Ha,” Hermione rolled her eyes, “Thanks but no thanks, Harry.”

“You look uncomfortable,” said Harry with a hint of sly in his voice, “I was just trying to help.”

Hermione didn't want to further an argument but decided to go back to finding a comfortable position. After a few moments, she now knew that it's near impossible.

I can't get any good sleep around here!

“Ugh,” she groaned, placing her pillow on her lap.

The car slowed down behind a truck which moved slower than anything Hermione remembered. Tapping on her pillow, she hugged it towards herself and tried to lie on it but to no avail, it felt uncomfortable.

They began to pick up speed and for some reason, she started to develop a small degree of car sickness. Her head started to ache.

“Are you alright, dear?” her mother asked, noticing Hermione's groans.

“I'm fine, mum,” she said, rubbing her head, “I just need to rest… that's all.”

“I have aspirins over here if you need anything, alright?” she said.

Hermione sighed. She felt sleepy. All she wanted was to get to the country home and sleep all day.

Just bite it, Hermione!

Turning slowly to Harry, she saw him looking at the window to his right. Remembering his offer awhile ago, she felt hesitant since it would feel awkward after what she did to him. But looking back, Harry was always a forgiving person and he probably has strange ways to forgive someone….

Shifting slowly on her position, she sat back on her chair, staring at Harry and slowly, she leaned forward and rested her head on his shoulder lightly. As expected, this position was much more comfortable. Her neck had that satisfying stretch and she felt she had more leg room than before.

“I thought you didn't want -”

Hermione cut Harry by wrapping her arms around his own. Like before, she rubbed her cheek slightly on Harry's shoulder to settle in.

“I changed my mind,” she said, looking up at Harry who had this amused expression on his face. “Sorry for punching you….” She added quietly.

“Don't worry,” said Harry, sighing, “Your punch was so weak I barely felt it.”

Hermione made a dry laugh and pressed her cheek against his shoulder affectionately, feeling all the goodness of the world emanating in her once more.

“Now go to sleep, you need it.” Harry said.

Will do.

Her eyes closed to slumber.

* * *

“We're here!”

Hermione woke up. She felt something heavy on her head and saw she was still lying on Harry's shoulder.

“Wake up, children,” said Aunt Monica.

The heavy feeling on her head lifted when Harry woke up. He must've rested his head on hers during the trip.

“Finally,” Harry said, stretching his arms releasing Hermione's grasp. “Hey, Allie, wake up.”

Alice opened her eyes instantly and looked out the window groggily.

“We're here already?” she asked, scratching her eyes rather cutely, “That was fast.”

“You were asleep the whole time,” said Aunt Monica, getting out of the car, “Get your jackets ready, it's freezing out here!”

Shaking off the sleepiness, Hermione opened the door to her left and jumped out.

Oh, God! She wasn't joking!

Hermione shivered from head to toe. While being all cold all over, Hermione saw the country home before her.

Just like she said to Harry, the house stood two stories. Standing on the driveway before the garage, Hermione could see the porch filled with wood-carved seats, lanterns and the like. It was decorated with Christmas wreaths and garlands accompanied with colorful Christmas lights.

“Cripes, it's cold,” said the distant voice of her cousin at the other side.

“Hey,” said Harry, climbing out of the car, “Can you conjure up a blue-bell flame? We really need one.”

Remembering their first year use of this charm, Hermione thought it would be a good idea but doing so in front of her other relatives wouldn't be a good idea.

“Greetings!” called a voice from above.

Everyone looked up and standing at the balcony was an old man wearing a black owl neck sweater. He looked burly for an old person but gave a kind face. His white short hair and matching beard matched the snow and even with that, they could all tell he was smiling.

“Recognize him, Harry?” Alice asked, walking up next to him.

“N-no,” said Harry, looking up again, “Should I?”

Alice giggled, “Well, a lot of people say he looks like Sean Connery.”

“Yeah,” said Kelvin, appearing beside Hermione, “Because of that, we tease him if he found the Holy Grail -”

“-or defeated Dr. No.” Matt added, smirking.

Hermione laughed in the inside at Harry's clueless expression. Secretly, there were times she liked it when Harry gets clueless over these Muggle interest like movies. Thinking about it, maybe she should let him watch some Indiana Jones some time.

“I'll be right there!” Hermione's grandfather said, disappearing from view.

“Hermione, Harry,” said Jacques, walking up to them with their bags, “These are yours, correct?”

“Thank you, dad,” said Hermione, taking her bag from him.

A little later on, Hermione's Grand-père opened the front door for everyone to get in. Hermione hugged him with great joy as they all entered and through Harry's point of view he could see that her grandfather really, really loves Hermione.

“It's great to see you!” he exclaimed, holding Hermione by the shoulders, “It's been awhile, Hermonica.”

“I miss you too, Grand-père,” said Hermione happily.

“Jack!” said Aunt Monica, kissing Jack Granger on the cheek.

The whole family started to greet Jack Granger that Hermione had to move aside to let him reacquaint with the rest of the family he hasn't seen in years.

“Oh my, Allie is that you?” she heard him say.

While watching, she noticed Harry at the threshold, holding onto his bag looking out of place.

Oh, Harry….

Hermione went near him and said, “Hey, after they greet them, I'll introduce you to him.”

Harry nervously smiled and nodded.

“He's going to be a bit `tough',” Hermione explained, “But he's nice.”

“I can tell,” said Harry. “So… is this it?”

Hermione looked around and noticed he was checking on the interior. The place was made of wood and looked like those mountain houses in skiing resorts. Wherever you look there were bear skin tapestries, a rock-made chimney, a deer head mounted above the mantelpiece, a living room which consist of leathery sofas. To their left was the kitchen and dining room and beside the entrance to the dining room was the stairs to the second floor are.

“Very comfy, isn't it?” she said, looking at Harry with a sweet smile.

“I love it,” he said. “Give me the tour later, okay?”

“Sure, why not?” Hermione said. “Oh wait, my grandfather's free, c'mon. I'll introduce you to him.”

Grabbing him by the wrist, Hermione dragged Harry towards her grandfather who just finished greeting Mimi and Didi.

“Grand-père,” Hermione started, releasing Harry, “I want you to meet someone.”

Hermione looked at Harry gave him a signal which was a nod. Looking nervously at her, Harry smiled slightly and walked up to her grandfather.

“Grandpa,” said Hermione, holding Harry by the arm to give him confidence, “This is Harry. Harry Potter.”

Hermione's grandfather observed Harry with a sagely look. After a few moments of nodding, he finally spoke.

“It's a pleasure,” he smiled, shaking Harry's hand. “You're right, he is tall, Hermonica.”

“What?” Harry looked at Hermione.

“I told him about you some years ago,” Hermione said quickly.

“I see,” he said, “Erm… pleasure to meet you too, sir.”

“Oh, stop with the formalities,” Jack said, “Just call me Grandpa Jack or simply Jack, if you want.”

“Y-yes, Grandpa Jack,” said Harry awkwardly.

“He's a nice man, Hermione,” said Jack, smiling at him kindly. “Welcome to my home,” he gestured around. “Feel comfortable and enjoy your visit, Harry.”

“Thank you,” Harry bowed his head slightly.

“Alright,” he turned to the Aunt Monica, “The rooms are there as always,” he said. “Settle in.”

The next hour, everyone began to move their stuff into the rooms above. It was pretty much a tiring task, in Hermione's opinion. Remembering that she wanted to sleep for the remainder of the day, she quickly moved her stuff to the vacant guestroom at the end of the second floor corridor.

The second floor was structured in this way: as one climbs up and reaches the first landing, they see some sort of second floor living room accompanied with bookshelves and the like. At one side, a railing with a view of the lower floor is present and at the other, a small set of three-step stairs that leads to a corridor where the guestrooms were.

Like the living room, the whole place was decorated with things you can see in a mountain style home. From antiques to contemporary, the place was ridden with numerous things to look at. Portraits upon portraits to movie posters of old, it was indeed an interesting place.

Across the corridors of the guestrooms one could see pretty lamps held by fake antlers giving off a hotel-like feel as they walk. Display tables with flower pots and some statuettes were placed at each end of the corridor.

Intersecting the corridor of guestrooms was another corridor, this time wider, which led to the master's bedroom. Nothing much to say about it other than it was where Hermione's grandfather slept.

Directing our attention to the guestrooms (Hermione's in particular), each of the five guestrooms looked identical with two beds, a couch and their own unique portrait. Overall, they were comfortable rooms fit for relaxation.

While Hermione passed the corridor to her room, she was interrupted as two doors adjacent to each other opened revealing Kline rushing from one side to the other.

“Those are my Oreos!” Krista complained, chasing after her brother.

“Here, take mine,” said Kent from the inside of the room she came from.

Hermione smiled at little Krista and walked on until she reached the vacant room. Dropping her duffel bag on her bed and taking a seat on it, she wondered if Harry would consider being with her.

He'll probably choose to stay with Alice… ugh, but I'll get over it.

“Need a roomie?”

Hermione turned and saw Harry walking in the room, dropping his own bag on the vacant bed.

“Harry,” Hermione said, “I… I… umm….”

“What?”

“Never mind,” she finally said, keeping quiet.

“Let me guess,” he walked over to her and sat beside her on the bed. “You were wondering if I was going to be Alice's roommate, right?”

What?!

“Are you implying something?” she asked suspiciously.

“Nothing,” said Harry, “It's just that with all your feelings towards Alice, I guess you were wondering if I was going to be with her or not.”

Hermione blushed. It's like he is… he is implying something awkward.

“Why? Did I say something wrong?” Harry asked, catching her blush.

“I-It's just that… you sound like you're implying that… I'm….”

Hermione wouldn't want to bring it up but she had to give him the lowdown.

“Implying what?”

“You know,” she turned away to hide her red face, “that I'm… jealous or something.”

It's all out now. Hermione was blushing all over. Surprisingly, Harry was laughing.

“Why are you laughing?” Hermione asked, bewildered. “You have no idea how embarrassed that was!”

“Sorry but it's just silly,” he said, “I'm not implying that you are… but then again, you go ballistic when I'm with her.”

“I'm not.” Hermione said.

“You punched me more than once when I am with her.” Harry pressed.

Oh, god. Oh, god. Oh, god. Oh, god. This is so awkward.

“I - It's not like that!” Hermione squeaked.

“It's not like what?” Harry raised his eyebrows.

Realizing it, Harry has been vague throughout. Is he implying what Hermione thinks he's implying?

I'll tell it to him straight. I can't let this go on any longer.

“Harry…” said Hermione, keeping a straight face. “I'll tell it to you straight… whatever you're thinking regarding this so-called `jealousy', let's say I am.”

“Alright,” Harry smirked.

“But!” she cut him, “That means nothing more than first degree jealousy!”

“More like what?” Harry asked.

Are you making me look like a fool?

“Fine,” Hermione said sternly, feeling a bit annoyed. “I'm jealous about you and Alice but my jealousy is within the boundaries of `my best friend isn't spending time with me', okay? Happy now? Had your laugh?”

Hermione turned away to hide her embarrassment. Why did she burst like that?

“You're a wonderful girl, you know that?” Harry said.

Hermione looked at him and giggled.

“I'm sorry…” she muttered. “I just… wanted to….”

Oh, let it out Hermione!

“I just wanted to spend my whole Christmas with you, that's all.” Hermione admitted, turning red. “I - I know it sounds strange but there, ever since it turned out that you're the only person from Hogwarts that I can be with this Christmas, I thought that I should be with you….”

Hermione wanted to bury her face. It was too much.

“I know, pathetic, right?” Hermione added, staring at her hands. “I sound selfish now.”

“You're not.” Harry spoke, “In fact, I'm flattered to hear that my company really means a lot to you.”

Hermione gazed at Harry.

“But you know, I really enjoy your family,” said Harry, “I want to know them more and to be honest, I get to know you a lot through them.”

“How?” Hermione asked, surprised.

“They say a lot of nice things about you,” said Harry, “Things I know about and some things I don't know about. It's amazing to hear them say this because that way, it just makes me glad that you're my best friend.”

Hermione scratched her head feeling uncomfortable.

“Oh my,” Hermione chuckled. “I… I never knew….”

“At least I can feel more empathetic towards you now,” he chuckled. “And if you want to know, this trip so far has been worth it.”

“Thanks,” said Hermione, “I wish Ron was here… it would've been fun.”

“Yeah, I better send a letter to him.” Harry noted. “I released Hedwig last night. I'm hoping she will come back soon.”

“Can she tell where you are?”

“Hedwig is smart, she'll find me…” said Harry. “Hey, let's go downstairs. I think your grandfather would want to ask me tons of questions.”

“I want to sleep,” said Hermione, scratching her eyes and yawning. “I really want to.”

“Don't say that,” said Harry, “You have a whole night to do that!”

“Really,” said Hermione, “I couldn't sleep well in the car.”

“If you say so,” said Harry, patting her lap before standing up. “I guess Allie can show me everything.”

“Nice try,” said Hermione, swinging her legs on the bed, ready to take her shoes off. “But I need to get some shut eye.”

A bemused expression flashed across Harry's face.

“Why?”

Before she knew it, Harry carried her from the bed, holding her under her knees and by the back of her n