My New Obsession

Hermione POV

The war is over. We’re free of Voldemort’s evil, his darkness. I thought we could go back to how things were, maybe find some sense of normalcy…Wishful thinking. The summer after the battle of Hogwarts was… hard to say the least. Harry suffers from severe PTSD and his nightmares plague him more often than not. I ended up staying with him at Grimmauld Place after the battle, visiting the Weasleys frequently. Things were still a little… awkward between all of us. Harry officially ended things with Ginny a week or so after the battle. Saying he needed time and that jumping into a relationship after everything they went through was futile. As one can imagine, Ginny didn’t handle the breakup well. 

I remember the day it happened. I was sitting in the living room at Grimmauld reading the prophet when Ginny came storming down the stairs. 

“…strung me along for what?! So you could fuck me and leave me, Harry?”

“Gin, please. You know I care about you. I just- please just give me time. I- I’m sorry.”

I shrunk into the couch so as to not bring attention to myself. Harry spotted me anyway giving me a pained look. Ginny just scoffed and slammed the door behind her. “That went well.” He said plopping down next to me. My heart ached for him. He was struggling and this was just another thing to add to his plate. I grabbed his hand and intertwined our fingers. He gave me a weak smile and settled down to read the prophet over my shoulder. 

Since then, Harry started focusing on himself more and actually started doing better. He was sad about the breakup and the resulting cold shoulder from some of the Weasley clan, but eventually, they all warmed up to him again. Well, mostly.

Ron and I also decided to stay friends. Our fleeting romance was a fluke in the passions of war thinking we were going to die. After the final battle, we realized we loved each other as friends and didn’t want to ruin our relationship. It made things a little complicated between us, but we pushed through it, needing each other in a time of loss and grieving. 

Glancing out the window, I watch the world fly by as the train speeds down the tracks in flashes of green and brown. It’s September 1st, our first day of 8th year. Harry and I decided to come back to school, while Ron took up ownership of Weasley’s Wizard Weezes with his brother. Telling us he had enough of school and fighting to last a lifetime. I didn’t blame him. The only reason I decided to head back was for my NEWTS. Well… that and I wanted one more year at the place I called home for most of my life.

My parents are still in Australia. When the battle ended and I finally had time to seek them out, I worked with a senior healer from St. Mungos to heal the damage I inflicted upon them. I’d never felt so much relief when their memories slowly began returning to them. Although, it was short lived. They felt betrayed and no longer trusted me. Magic became a sore spot for us. Eventually, they asked for space to process, so I tried to respect that.

Sighing, I peer over my shoulder at Harry. He’s sleeping peacefully for once, his glasses askew, face pressed up against the wall, lips slightly parted as he snores softly. I can’t help but smile. That boy who couldn’t sleep a wink only a few months ago now easily passed out on a moving train.

Harry was offered a position at the Auror’s office soon after the final battle. Youngest ever. Kingsley said it was only fair since he managed to defeat the darkest wizard of our time as a teenager. I encouraged him to follow his heart. To stop thinking of everyone else and figure out what he wanted. He was torn for weeks. Dishing out pros and cons, making lists, driving himself mad as he tried to make a decision. I was relieved when he finally decided to turn them down. Saying he needed space from all the crime-fighting and telling me he wanted at least one normal, fun, carefree year at Hogwarts before he jumped into the real world. I completely understood and was really excited he was coming with me.

If I’m being honest with myself, I was a little anxious to return by myself. Returning to Hogwarts was something I really wanted, but not without my two best friends. Living with Harry and Ron for so many months in such dangerous situations made me feel dependent on them. More so than in the past. The thought of being away from them for that long made my chest ache. I pondered over this for months. I couldn’t understand why I was so anxious about leaving them… well mostly Harry. He was my rock during those few months without Ron. My therapist told me it was normal and to not let it bother me too much. She said Harry probably relied on me just as much as I did him. 

After the battle, the ministry enforced mandatory counseling sessions for all students heavily involved in the war. At first, we were all frustrated with them for taking away the choice, but it actually helped loads. It was beneficial for our mental health and I was grateful for the advice. 

I often wonder how Harry’s sessions are going. He is happier as of late. No longer irritable or so… jumpy. He deserves a little freedom… happiness. No one should have to go through what he has. Scooting over, I tentatively grab his hand.

“Harry,” I whisper. 

He shifts, groaning and furrowing his brow. I shake his hand gently.

“Harry. We’re almost to Hogwarts.”

His eyes crack open and he peers over at me. “Argh.” He whines, stretching his arms above his head. I watch the muscles of his biceps flex as he stretches, my mouth suddenly dry. I quickly avert my eyes and look out the window. What just happened ? I think, clearing my throat. When did Harry’s arms start looking like that? I know he’s been working out more and lifting with Bill and Charley, but I would’ve noticed that drastic change right? Merlin. Get it together Granger.  

“Ugh, how long was I out?” He asks, voice hoarse with sleep. 

“Not long. About an hour.” I say a little flustered, my voice an octave or two too high. I let out a shaky breath, still trying to understand why I just reacted to him like that. He yawns, moving to sit across from me. I cross my legs, suddenly needing some air. He eyes me curiously.

“Hermione, are you okay?” 

“Mhm,” I say, looking away as my cheeks heat. I can feel his eyes burning into me.

”Alright. Whatever you say.” He shrugs. I blow out a breath I didn't realize I'd been holding. We sit in silence for a few minutes and I shift uncomfortably under his gaze, his eyes never leaving my face, I groan.

“What is it, Harry?” 

He clears his throat, “Nothing… I’ve just never seen your hair like that.” I study his expression and he blushes. Huh, that's interesting. What is going on? I shrug, feigning nonchalance.

“Mrs. Weasley taught me a spell to help calm my hair.” 

His eyes trail over my face. “Well, it looks good ‘mione.” 

I feel my face and ears burn. Bloody hell. Why am I blushing? It's Harry for goodness sake. I take a deep breath, smiling kindly at him.

“Thanks Harry.” I say and he smiles before turning to look out the window. 

A few moments later, Ginny pokes her head in. She avoids looking in Harry’s direction.

“We’re having a prefects meeting in ten. Meet us two doors over, yeah?”

Ginny was made head girl after I refused McGonagall’s offer. I told her I didn’t want the responsibility but I'd be happy to be a prefect again. Harry also turned down the offer for head boy and volunteered to be a prefect as well. We both decided to let the others be in charge for once. We needed a break. McGonagall told us we were allowed to slack off this year. Saying our prefect duties would be minimal compared to everyone else, which absolutely blew my mind. I understand we’re war heroes now, but bending the rules? I never thought I’d see the day. I guess we all need a little reprieve this year, even Professor McGonagall. 

Harry and I were also made partners, to my delight. I won’t have to suffer perfect duties with Pansy Parkinson again. And Harry Ernie Macmillan. Nice chap but he tends to talk endlessly. We were both grateful to Mcgonagall for making our lives immensely easier. Although, working under Ginny and Theo Nott of all people might be difficult. 

Harry sighs. “Hello to you too Ginny.”

The redhead rolls her eyes and finally looks at him. Actually, 'glares' is more like it.

“Oh, hi Harry. How are you?” She says stiffly. Her eyes are cold and unforgiving.

Wow. She’s still not handling this well. All summer she’s acted civil in front of her family but cold when they weren’t around. It was giving me whiplash, so I can’t imagine how Harry’s feeling.

He handled it surprisingly well over the last few months. Although, it definitely irritated him when she acted like he was less than the dirt under her shoe. Like his presence disgusted her. I tried reasoning with her, but she wouldn’t listen. Insisting everything was fine. The coldness and cruelty seems to be a coping mechanism to protect herself. At least that’s what my therapist told me when I mentioned it to her.

“I’m great. We’ll see you in 10.” Harry spat angrily.

Ginny’s facade cracked slightly before morphing back into cool hatred. “See you.”

......

After the prefects meeting, I chatted with Susan and Cho, excited they decided to come back for an 8th year.

“Alright, you lot! We’re about to arrive so please head back to your compartments!” Theo yells over the loud chatter. Harry grabs my hand and pulls me out the door grinning, wrapping his arm around my shoulders as we walk back to our seats.

Soon, we arrive at Hogwarts. Absorbing our last first day ever with grins and cheers. The warmth and joy of the students vibrates through the air as we all realize this year is going to be our first year free of all evil. The hall is filled with loud chatter and laughter as we all patiently wait for the first years to arrive to be sorted into their houses.

Harry leans in, whispering close to my ear, “Guess what we’re doing next weekend?”

I can’t help the chill that walks down my spine at his closeness, no matter how hard I try to ignore it.

“What?” I say a little breathless. I really need to get control over my reactions to him. 

He smirks, “We’re throwing a party.”

“No way! How?” I ask squealing excitedly. 

“I have my ways, Granger. Don’t you worry.” 

I laugh, “Okay Mr chosen one.” I say rolling my eyes. Harry chuckles and nudges me with his shoulder. 

Over the summer I decided to have a little bit of fun. The trials of war cause for some… recklessness. Harry and I made a pact to never let the other get into a funk. If we did, we drank. Which led to many drunken nights. We frequently went to muggle bars and I found I really enjoy drinking with my friends and letting loose. My old rule-following ways not fitting to my current lifestyle. My therapist told me to embrace this new me. Telling me I’ve been through a lot and it's normal for things to change. 

“I asked Theo to let this one slide and he literally rolled his eyes at me then  told me how Slytherin threw parties all the time. Fucking wanker. I knew those rich bastards threw parties.” He said stabbing a piece of chicken.

“He said he knows a guy who knows a guy who can get us some firewhiskey though so here’s to inter-house unity.” Harry says, eyes alight with mischief. 

I can’t help but grin. Harry also changed a lot after the war. His brush with death gave him a new outlook on life. He said he had to seize the day and try to enjoy himself more. He was ‘finally free’ were his words so many months ago. 

I open my mouth to respond with a cheeky quip when Professor McGonagall shushes the crowd.

“Alright, alright. Please quiet down! The sorting is about to begin.”

......

Heading back to Gryffindor Tower chatting with Harry and Neville, Professor McGonagall suddenly calls out from behind us.

“Harry! Harry Potter!”

We turn around to face her and she smiles widely at us, pulling us into a tight hug. Harry’s eyes grow wide, glancing over to me. I giggle at his expression. When she pulls away, she tells Harry she arranged for him to have a private room to himself. Not taking no for an answer. She insists he deserves a little space after saving the wizarding world. Sending us on our way with a kiss on our cheeks. 

I’m beyond jealous. The only reason I even considered being head girl at all was for the private room and Harry gets one anyway. I roll my eyes and he smirks at me, “Jealous Hermione?” He purrs, nudging me with his shoulder.

“Of course Harry! You get your own room!” I pout and he chuckles.

“You can stay with me anytime ‘mione.”

I blush scarlet. I know he doesn’t mean it that way but for some reason, my brain immediately jumps into the gutter. Again, what the hell is happening? 

“Whatever.” 

He chuckles again, pulling me into his side. I grin, wrapping my arm around his waist. A few younger students stare at us curiously. I forget people aren’t used to seeing us so… comfortable with each other. Whatever. It’s not like I care, Harry’s my best friend.

Walking into the common room, I breathe in the familiar scent of firewood and cinnamon. I sigh feeling relaxed. Harry grabs my hand leading me up the stairs to his new room. The boys' dormitories are up a few flights and to the right, but Harry’s new room is lower. A large mahogany door down a short hallway. He mutters the password McGonagall gave him and slowly opens the door. We walk into a wide expanse of a room. My eyes dart all around the large, maroon and gold-covered walls and furniture. To the right is a massive king-sized bed, the plush comforter a dark crimson, white and gold pillows all around. Next to the bed is a small dark wood nightstand and a small bookshelf.

I wonder if this room has been here this whole time. There’s no way I would have missed it. Glancing to the left, there’s a large desk, a window looking out into the courtyard, and a fireplace. Books of every kind on the mantle. It’s homey..lived in. Very cozy and warm. 

He laughs. “No fucking way! This is awesome!” He spins around with a wide grin on his face. His antics make me giggle. Unable to help myself, I jump Superman style onto his bed. Sprawling out on my back, spreading my limbs as far as they can go. I start making snow angels, the soft fibers of the comforter soothing against my skin. 

I gasp when I finally notice the enchanted ceiling. Magical star constellations twinkling above.

“Wow, Harry. I am beyond jealous. I hate you just a little for saving the world right now.” 

He chuckles, plopping down beside me. “Well, I couldn't have done it without you.” He says giving me a sidelong glance. “This year’s going to be amazing Hermione.” 

After a few moments, he pushes up onto his elbow peering down at me. His green eyes searching mine.

“Is it weird that it almost feels too good to be true?” He asks and I frown. Unfortunately, I also can’t help but feel a little on edge. Always looking over my shoulder, feeling like a darkness awaits us. That mindset is buried deep inside me after months on the run. I turn on my side, facing him.

“We’re free Harry. And I know it's hard to think that way after everything, but this is our year. We finally get to be…normal.” I say, smiling softly at him.

He grins. “You’re right. No more end-of-the-world talk. If I ever get broody and dark please just whack me upside the head.” 

I laugh. “Deal. And if I ever get sad and start to isolate myself, whack me upside the head, yeah?” 

He chuckles. “Alright deal.”

Flopping onto his back he sighs. “I’m happy you’re here Hermione. You’re basically the only family I have left. I really don’t think I’d survive without you… No, scratch that I definitely would have died at least twice without you.” 

I scoff. “You would’ve died at least a hundred times Harry let’s not be modest.”

A laugh bursts from him. “My mistake.” He says shaking his head. I grin, looking back at the ceiling.

“Alright, I guess I need to head back to my dorm with my four roommates and leave you to enjoy your massive totally glorious room to yourself.” I roll my eyes, heading toward the exit. He chuckles behind me.

“Night ‘mione. See you in the morning.”

I nod, glancing over my shoulder at him. His eyes lock on mine, and he grins, winking.

“Goodnight Harry.”

Harry POV

Our first two weeks of classes go by smoothly. It feels good to be back. I vowed to enjoy myself this year. Refusing to let any kind of evil distract me. When Hermione told me she was coming back, the decision had been easy. I had been stressed as fuck trying to decide what to do, but as soon as she told me she was going back to Hogwarts I knew what I wanted. I proceeded to pretend I was still contemplating my decision for a few days so as to not alarm her of how easily influenced I was by her. But I had tried imagining my life without her and honestly… I panicked. We spent almost a full year in a tent together. My mind healer told me it was normal to trauma bond with someone after what we went through. Oddly enough, I didn’t feel that innate desire to be around Ron all the time, but I think that’s just because our relationship was tense before the battle of Hogwarts. 

Everything is perfect now. Well… except for Ginny. She’s still livid I asked for time. Which in turn pisses me off. How can she not understand? I literally died, went through hell for years, and lost almost every person I care about. I just want some space to figure myself out. To know who I am without the responsibility of saving the world on my shoulders. Is that too much to ask? And on top of that, she treats me like shit. I mean, I feel horrible for hurting her, but I didn’t expect this.

I huff. No need to spiral into that again. If Ginny wants to be in my life, she will be. Otherwise, I feel great. I’m focusing on my classes this year. I really want a balanced knowledge before choosing what I want to do in life. It would be easy to be an auror. And yes, my past suggests I can thrive in that department, but I’m tired of crime fighting. I need a break from evil. Even if it's just for a little while.

Sitting in my last class of the day, Hermione scribbles furiously next to me, taking notes on every word McGonagall says. I roll my eyes. She told me her nerd days were over, but you can’t take the swot out of the girl. She loves learning. I’ll be sincerely surprised if she slacks off at all.

Although, she did shock me this summer. She was quite the party girl. Even dancing on a few tables. It was a sight to see. Hermione Granger shaking ass in a muggle pub. The memory makes me chuckle and her eyes shoot to mine, brow furrowed in question. I cover my laugh with a cough, shrugging innocently at her. She rolls her eyes, getting back to work. 

I grin, impatiently shaking my leg under the table. The Gryffindor party is set to start at 7 pm sharp. I learned that Theo is very resourceful. He managed four bottles of firewhiskey, a muggle party drink called jungle juice, and a keg of beer. No idea what any of that is but he seems excited. Everything is stored in my private room. Hermione and I made plans to throw up a few decorations and snacks after class. The party is for the 7th and 8th years only. Luckily we found an age charm that’ll violently shock anyone younger than 17 trying to enter. It might also throw them across the room, so kudos to them if they’re bold enough.

I’m so excited that I can’t sit still. Hermione puts a hand on my thigh to stop my bouncing. Heat shoots up my spine. Fuck. Lately, my reactions to her are cause for concern. She’s my best friend. It’s probably nothing. But damn sometimes… I mean I’m not blind, Hermione is beyond gorgeous, but before the war, she was Ron’s. I couldn’t even think of her like that. I had to be objective when looking at her, noticing her. Anytime I thought she looked pretty, I’d distract myself. Anytime we had a moment, I’d think of Ron and Ginny. But now.. all those factors aren’t factors and my brain has flipped a switch, noticing her all the time, every little thing. It’s all very maddening, but we’ll be fine. I’ll get over it. I have before.

I stop bouncing my legs and blow out a breath. Hermione doesn’t need to know, just act normal Harry, Merlin.   She squeezes once before dropping her hand. A part of me wishes she’d kept her hand there. I shake off my treacherous thoughts. The class ends in ten minutes. I can do this. Looking around for something to take my mind off things, I spot Malfoy staring at me across the room. I raise a brow in question and he smirks, nodding his head toward the time. I grin back. So weird being friends with the ferret. He’s actually quite fun. We got on really well over the summer. He showed up at my house randomly one day to apologize profusely for his actions in the past and asked to buy me a drink. At the time, I was going a little… wild and I accepted his offer without thinking. Hermione was livid that I didn’t tell her he was going out with us. But to our surprise, he sat her down and gifted her an ancient first edition of Hogwarts: A History before apologizing sincerely and telling her how much he regrets treating her so poorly. He got a little teary-eyed when he apologized for not doing anything when she was tortured, his voice cracking on the words. Hermione’s mouth had dropped open, frozen in place as she stared at him. I could see her mind whirling as she processed his apology. To his credit, Malfoy promised to make it up to her and told her he knew his actions were unforgivable but he wanted to try. Since then he’s been hanging around a lot. Showing up unannounced with a stupid smirk on his face and offering to buy drinks. All mind-blowing shit if you ask me. I like the bloke. Never thought I’d see the day when Draco Malfoy won me over, but here we are. 

From then on, we kind of became friends. Going out to bars often. I begrudgingly learned that Malfoy’s a talker when he’s drunk, so I know way too much information about his life. He told me things he’s never told anyone and we bonded over our shitty childhoods. His father is a right prick and his mother is only slightly better. He even came out to me one day while we were having a beer. 

“I’m bisexual!” He blurted in the middle of a conversation about quidditch. I gaped at him and then burst out laughing.

“Yeah, mate. I figured when you made out with that muggle the other night.” Malfoy actually blushed.

“Sorry… I just. I’ve never told anyone. And I knew you wouldn’t judge me so I just blurted it out. My bad.” He said laughing.

I clapped him on the back. “As long as you don’t fall in love with me I don’t care who you like.” Draco rolled his eyes dramatically.

“Piss off potter. I had a crush on you first year. Trust me I learned my lesson.” 

I laughed again. “You did not! Is that why you were so fucking mean to me?!” 

He nodded and laughed. “Don’t worry. You’re not my type.”

We’ve been oddly close ever since. Ron still hates the guy, going on and on about it when he’s not within earshot. I just tune him out usually, I honestly don’t have it in me to hate anyone anymore. The past is in the past. 

Bringing my attention back to Professor McGonagall, I try my hardest to focus on what she’s talking about. 

Soon, our headmaster looks around and sighs. “Alright, alright get out of here. Enjoy your weekend.” 

I whoop excitedly before quickly organizing my things. Hermione sets down her quill turning her body toward mine. I glance at her face and she’s grinning.

“Harry. I thought you said school was a priority this year. Did you hear a word she said?” 

I chuckle. “No Hermione I did not. And school is important, but I’m dying to try this jungle juice Theo calls it. I can’t sit still Hermione. You know me, this isn’t new.” She laughs.

“True. Alright then, let’s go set up some before dinner.” 

We rush back to the common room. Entering through the portrait finding people moseying about, lounging on the couches talking.

“Alright, you lot. After dinner, if you are not in the 7th or 8th year you better get. I know you all think you can sneak your way into the party, but I should warn you... You may not have all your limbs intact if you do. Just saying. I’d warn all your little buddies too.” I say sternly. Apparently killing the darkest wizard of all time has its perks. Half the underclassmen think I’m terrifying, the other half swooning whenever I walk by. Hermione thinks it's hilarious.

A couple of 5th years lounging on the couch go pale, their faces draining of color. It takes everything in me not to laugh.

“Do you understand?” I growl and they nod furiously. “Alright then.” I clap my hands together. “If you all could clear out the common room for a bit we’d appreciate it.”

The 5th years immediately sprint up the stairs and everyone else slowly/grumpily files out after them. I grin. Easy enough. I think, turning to Hermione for instructions. I’m surprised to find she’s already staring back at me with a strange look in her eyes. She bites her lip, lost in thought it seems.

I cock my brow, “Alright there ‘mione?” 

She shakes her head, “Yep.” She says, clearing her throat, and stepping away from me. Weird.

“What should we do first?”

......

The party is in full swing. Everything’s going to plan. A few 6th years tried sneaking down the stairs, making it to the threshold before they were thrown back. Their hair stood on end as they were electrocuted. Malfoy and I were the only witnesses and couldn’t stop laughing our asses off as they twitched back up the stairs. 

I’m already pretty drunk. Theo’s jungle juice is a hit. Super dangerous but delicious. It tastes like orange juice with no alcohol flavoring at all. One cup has me feeling warm and tingly. A few more and I’ll be down for the count. Hermione managed an extending charm on the far wall, so the room is twice the size it normally is. 

Seeing everyone mix and mingle makes me smile. How different things are now. All houses enjoying each other’s company. I watch as Dean Thomas meanders over to stand with me next to the stairs.

“Harry! How are you mate? I’ve missed you!” He says slurring slightly and I grin.

“Dean, I’m doing great. You having fun?”

He nods. “We should play a game of cards! A few of us are set up over there.” He points to the extended corner of the common room. A few people are sitting in a circle talking animatedly and laughing. I clap a hand on his back, leading him forward.

“Alright mate let's go.”

We sit in the circle, joining a few others playing a game called ride the train . I learn quickly how easy it is to get sloshed playing that dreadful game. I rode the train twice, finishing two cups of juice in the process. I shake my head when they ask me to play another round.

“Nope. I’m good guys.” I slur. 

Bloody hell. I need some water . I stumble over to the drink table and scarf down a handful of chips. I find an empty cup and mutter an agumenti . The cup fills to the brim and I chug it down in a few gulps. I do this for a few minutes to sober up, drink a cup of water, snack, and drink some more. I don’t want to die too early. Looking around the room, I unconsciously seek her out. Finally spotting Hermione talking to Cho and Susan, I trail my eyes down her small frame and suppress a groan. She’s wearing black muggle jeans and a maroon crop top with only one sleeve. Her tanned skin is smooth and flawless. Curls cascading down her back in perfect ringlets like that first day on the train. She looks fucking amazing. Her cheeks are flushed from all the drinking and dancing and I can’t help but ogle her. Fuck. The alcohol is not helping my horny for Hermione problem. She spots me staring and grins. I smirk back, feeling weightless. She saunters over to stand beside me.

“Alright Harry?” She asks, glancing up at me sweetly. Her milk-chocolate eyes are glassy and her pupils are blown wide. 

“Mhm. I’m wonderful Hermione.” 

I sigh, straining not to reach out and thread my fingers through her curls. I really want to touch her. My fingers twitch.

“I missed you.” I say, wrapping my arm around her shoulders and pulling her into my side, apparently losing my internal battle not to touch her. At least I didn’t fucking kiss her, I think.

She giggles. “I missed you too Harry.” She says, wrapping her arms around my waist and hugging my side. She hums happily, fitting perfectly into the crook of my arm. I kiss the top of her head and smile. I love that she likes physical touch just as much as I do. When I tried touching Ginny like this she would squirm away and say she didn’t like touching in public. It’s nice showing my affection like this. Hermione and Malfoy are both very touchy, which is nice seeing as they’re two of my best friends. Ugh . Still can’t believe I consider him one of my closest friends. He’s still a bloody prat and sometimes I want to Avada him, but I’ve learned to like his quick insults and overall scheming Slytherinness. Makes me understand why the sorting hat almost put me in Slytherin. Gross. Why am I thinking about him right now? Theo stumbles over to us, pulling me from my thoughts.

“You guys! Take a shot with me!” He exclaims excitedly. I groan, if I take a shot I’m totally done for. My bed is screaming my name. But, Hermione perks up and smiles widely at him, “Sure!” 

Theo grins wickedly like she fell into his trap and hands her a glass. I roll my eyes. Fuck it.

“Alright Theodore hit me.”

He hands me a shot glass brimming with firewhiskey. My stomach rolls as the strong scent burns my nose. I take a deep breath, willing my stomach to cooperate. Hermione steps away from me and a whine escapes my lips. She giggles, pinching my side. I swat her hand away and look at Theo, who’s grinning mischievously.

“Alright on three, tap your glass to the table, and then cheers! One, two, three!”

We all do as he said and throw the shots back. The burn of the whiskey sends tingles down my spine and I fight the urge to hurl. Instead coughing as it scorches my throat. My head feels foggy and my limbs loose.

“Fuck.” I shake my head to try and clear it. No such luck. Theo smiles wildly at us, galloping away to his next victim.

“Harry..” Hermione slurs next to me. I peer down at her, finding a drunk grin slapped onto her face. I chuckle.

“I’m sloshed ‘mione.” 

She giggle hiccups. “Me too.” 

“Want to lay down with me for a bit? I need to chill for a few minutes.” 

She nods, grabbing my hand and threading our fingers together. “Bring the snacks.” She says and I laugh, quickly snatching up a bag of chips as she tugs me through the many bodies to the stairs.

Closing the door behind me I sigh. The air is much cooler in here and my head clears a bit. She snatches the chips from my hand.

“Hey!” I yell and she giggles, running away from me. “Hermione. We’re supposed to share.” I growl, stalking after her. She just shrugs, plopping down on my bed and spilling chips everywhere. 

“Bloody hell.” I can’t help but laugh as she starts eating the chips off the bed. 

I plop down laying across the mattress, watching her inhale my chips. “Can I have one? Or are you going to hog the whole thing?” 

She pulls out her wand, waving it over her mess, vanishing it. She grins, taking another bite. I roll my eyes.

“Fine you minx I’ll just starve.” I sigh, pouting. 

“Ugh. Don’t make that face Harry it’s too cute I’ll fold.” She says, averting her eyes. I chuckle, scooting closer to her.

“What face Hermione?” I say, making said face. She rolls her eyes before conceding. I quickly snatch the bag from her, moving away to the other side of the massive bed.

“Too easy ‘mione.” I murmur, throwing a handful into my mouth.

She huffs, “That's totally unfair. You used my bleeding heart against me!” 

I grin to myself, munching on my stolen chips. The bag is almost empty. I glance up to goad her and freeze as I watch her crawl toward me. A saucy smirk on her lips. Oh bloody hell. My cock twitches in my trousers. Nope. Nope. Look away you idiot !

But I can’t. My eyes flick to her cleavage and back up again. Fuck. I’m paralyzed by desire. She stops a foot in front of me and sits back on her haunches, biting her lip. My eyes track the movement. Chips all but forgotten in my hands as I look at her plump red lips. She inches closer, her hand suddenly on my thigh.

“Something wrong Harry?” She asks, leaning in closer, her face now only inches from mine. My breathing hitches and I jerk my eyes up from her mouth. She’s so close I can see the many freckles spattering her nose, the gold flecks in her eyes, the slight scar on her cheek.

The hand on my thigh slowly inches higher and I lick my suddenly dry lips. “Hermione…” I breathe huskily and her eyes flick to my mouth. The urge to kiss her so overwhelming, I groan. 

Her lips are so close if I move even an inch they’d brush mine. I’m so distracted by her mouth that I don’t notice her other hand creeping toward the bag of chips. She abruptly snatches the bag from my hands and leans back, triumphantly grinning. A laugh bursts from my chest as I stare at her in awe. She totally did that on purpose. I lunge at her, ripping the bag out of her hands and throwing it to the ground. She squeals as I tackle her onto the bed.

“Harry! Get off!” 

I chuckle, holding her hands above her head, completely at my mercy. My body flush with hers. I can feel her pert breasts under me. She squirms, pressing herself into me. Oh fuck me. All my blood rushes south suddenly. My cock grows painfully hard as she moves beneath me. Her hips buck and she gasps. I’m completely frozen, knowing she just felt how aroused I am by her. She looks into my eyes and her pupils dilate. A coiling begins low in my belly at the look in her eyes. Our breaths combine as we stare at each other. I lick my lips and her eyes jerk to my mouth. 

The desire to kiss her hits me again, this time stronger than the last. My inhibited brain not thinking clearly and overwhelmed with desire, I lean down, lightly brushing my lips to hers. I can’t control myself anymore. If she doesn’t want this she has to stop me. I’m completely at her mercy despite my body caging her in. She has all the power. Hermione sucks in a breath and whimpers. I groan, dizzy with lust as I close the distance between us, kissing her fully. Soft at first, gentle. Testing her reaction. It takes every ounce of self-control I have left to not immediately devour her. She shifts underneath me, her heated body rubbing against my aching cock and I gasp, pulling away from her. 

She stops moving abruptly and searches my eyes. Whatever she sees must be enough because when I release my grip on her hands to let her decide if she wants to continue and whisper, “Hermione..” She groans, suddenly grabbing my face and kissing me desperately. I growl, slipping my tongue into my mouth and shift between her legs so I can press my knee into her core. She gasps into my mouth, running her fingers through my hair as she deepens the kiss. My hands are everywhere, squeezing and feeling her soft skin. Moving down to suckle her neck, she moans, making my cock pulse.

“Harry.” She breathes next to my ear, sending a spike of heat through my body. I grip her waist and pull her on top of me so that her thighs straddle mine. I’m ravenous. Worshipping every piece of skin I can find with my mouth. My painfully hard cock digging into her apex. I buck my hips as the need overtakes me. She gasps, her eyes wide as she feels just how much I want her. I lean away from her neck and look at her flushed face. My eyes flick down to her chest, where I see her nipples hard and visible through the thin fabric of her shirt.

I groan, “Fuck Hermione.”

Unable to stop myself, I pull the sleeveless side of her shirt down revealing her perfect breast to me. I let out a shuddering breath, it’s so much better than I imagined. Twelve-year-old Harry would not believe I was here right now. I half wished her shirt was sleeveless so I could see more of her, but I’m a simple man and I’ll take what I can get. She trembles and threads her fingers through my hair as I lean in to flick my tongue over the peaked nipple. Earning a breathy moan from Hermione. My hands roam over her smooth skin as I suck and flick my tongue over her. I could stay here forever , I think.

She pulls my head up from her chest breathing heavily. Her eyes are hooded and full of lust. She immediately devours my mouth and grinds her hips against my growing erection. My whole body is throbbing with need. I want to feel her warm cunt wrapped around my cock. Make her cum while staring into her chocolate eyes. How did we get here? Am I really this lucky? I moan into her mouth. Tasting the sweet tang of orange on her tongue. That fucking jungle juice.

Wait. Shit. Jungle juice! I freeze. We’re too drunk for this. I can’t just hook up with Hermione like a meaningless drunken one-night stand! She means more to me than that. What am I doing? I break the kiss, resting my forehead against hers. Both of us gasping for breath.

“Fuck Hermione. We can’t do this.” 

She stiffens. Her fingers stalling in my hair. I open my eyes to look at her and she’s wide-eyed searching my face.

“You’re right we shouldn’t. We’re just friends.” She says, her voice strained. 

What? I pull back, furrowing my brow. “Yes, but we’re also drunk. And by the way things were moving… I can’t sleep with you. It’s not right.” I shake my head trying to clear my thoughts. If we do this, I want to be sober and remember every bloody second. Her lips are thin and her brows pull together.

“Alright then.” She climbs off me stiffly and moves to stand.

“Wait!” I grab her hand to stop her, noting her tense posture. “You don’t have to leave though. We can just sleep.”

She won’t look at me. Why do I feel like I did something wrong? Does she regret it? She did say we’re just friends. Maybe she thinks we’re making a mistake. Fuck. I can’t lose her.

“Hermione you’re my best friend. Please just-” I pause, trying to sort through my jumbled thoughts. “We’re drunk and not thinking but it doesn’t have to make things weird right?” 

She sighs, shaking her head. “Of course not Harry. We’ll still be friends. It happens. Just a drunken mistake.” 

My heart sinks and I drop her hand at the sharp sting of rejection. “Right. A mistake.” I say and she nods, still refusing to look at me. Like she can’t believe she let this happen. My pulse roars loudly in my ears. She regrets it. Fuck.

“I’m going to head to bed. Goodnight Harry.” She says practically sprinting out of the room. I stare at the door for what feels like hours. 

“What have I done?”