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Harry Potter and the End of Illusions	By : Christina_Potter_09 Category: Harry Potter > Het - Male/Female > Harry/Hermione Views: 11159 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, nor the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
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-CHAPTER FIFTEEN-

A New Tradition

Ron, Hermione, Luna, Tonks, and Lupin were gathered around another bed near the far end of the ward. At the sound of the doors opening, they all looked up. Hermione ran to Harry and hugged him.

'Bye, Harry!' said Hermione, and she did something she had never done before, and kissed him on the cheek.

Harry opened his eyes with a grin on his face and looked around, remembering that he was in Hermione’s bedroom. She was wearing her light pink nightgown and her hair was spread out on the pillow next to him. Her lips were parted slightly and Harry couldn’t resist the urge to lean closer and kiss them. Hermione smiled against his lips and hugged him.

‘Hey,’ Hermione murmured and Harry smiled and kissed her cheek as she opened her eyes.

‘Hey,’ Harry replied. ‘We have to get ready.’ Hermione groaned, making Harry chuckle.

‘I want more sleep. You haven’t let me sleep properly for the past five nights in a row,’ Hermione complained playfully.

‘I don’t remember you complaining at the time…’ Harry said as he moved even closer and slipped a hand under their covers and her gown to caress Hermione’s stomach.

‘Of course I didn’t; I’m as hormonal as you are.’ Hermione grinned and took Harry by surprise as she pushed him on his back and climbed on top of him. Harry smiled and raised his head to kiss her, Hermione leaned forward and their lips met in a sweet kiss. They broke apart after a few moments and smiled at each other.

‘We really have to get ready.’ Harry said as he nuzzled Hermione’s neck.

‘Since when did you become the bossy one around here?’ Hermione asked as she caressed Harry’s messy hair.

‘Hmmm... Since you became lazy because of me,’ Harry said against Hermione’s skin.

‘Fair point,’ Hermione sighed. She kissed Harry one last time and stood up. ‘I’m going to have a shower. If you want us to leave any time soon, don’t follow me,’ Hermione said and headed for the bathroom. Harry smiled and considered following her but she was right; they wouldn’t leave soon if he did.

Harry and Hermione had decided to spend Christmas Eve with Andromeda Tonks and little Teddy and Christmas day and a few more after with Hermione’s parents. Harry wanted to see Teddy and the Grangers like Hermione did so they came to this solution easily. Spending time at the Burrow was out of the question since Hermione needed time with her parents and Harry felt uncomfortable being there with Fred gone.

Harry was also uncomfortable with announcing their relationship to Hermione's parents. Harry was grateful to the Grangers for accepting him and forgiving Hermione for changing their lives because of him, but he wasn’t sure how her parents would react when they’d learn that he and their little girl were together. He just hoped things would be fine with them so he and Hermione could spend the Christmas holidays and the New Year’s Eve in Hermione’s house in a happy mood.

When Hermione was out of the bathroom, they both got ready for their holidays. They packed their trunks and Harry helped Hermione with Crookshanks and then took Prongs in his cage. Many students had already left the castle and Harry and Hermione went to Gryffindor Tower to say their goodbyes to Ron and Luna.

‘Are you sure you don’t want to come to the Burrow? Mom would be happy to see you,’ Ron said as they sat down for awhile. Harry and Hermione looked at each other for a second; Ron’s mood hadn’t changed in the last few weeks and he hadn’t told to his friends what was wrong.

‘No, Ron, thank you but Hermione needs to spend time with her parents as we had promised. Besides, with Fleur and her parents, the house will be packed and it would be too much for your mom. But we’ll pay a visit, don’t worry.’ Harry said and Ron smiled weakly and nodded.

‘You can also come and visit us at my parents’ house. They’ll be glad to meet Luna and see you again, Ron,’ Hermione added and Ron and Luna nodded this time.

Ron didn’t seem to be in a very good mood, yet again, so Harry and Hermione stood up and said their last goodbyes to their friends. They met and wished a happy Christmas to some more people in Hogwarts and then left for Hermione’s house. They’d leave their trunks and pets there, as they had agreed through owls with the Grangers, and then they’d head for Andromeda’s.

When Harry and Hermione apparated to Hermione’s house and went inside, they both knew that Mr. and Mrs. Granger would be at their café. Being alone, the couple decided to have a bath and take a nap so they could be ready for the evening. When the afternoon came, Harry and Hermione got ready and apparated to the Tonks’ house. Harry felt strangely as they waited for Andromeda to open the door. This woman was alone and Teddy was an orphan, Harry knew what it was like.

‘Hey,’ Hermione said and squeezed his hand, hearing his thoughts. ‘Everything will be fine. We’ll help them,’ Hermione added and Harry nodded with a small smile. The door of the house opened and a smiling Andromeda greeted the couple with a hug.

‘Welcome, please come in,’ the middle Black sister said and led the couple in the living room. As Harry entered the living room, he saw two pictures above the fireplace. The first was of Ted Tonks and the second was one of a very pregnant Nymphadora in the arms of Remus. Both were smiling and waving in the photograph. Harry felt a hand squeezing his shoulder and turned his head to see Andromeda wearing a sad smile.

‘I’m sure they’re protecting us from up there. There’s nothing worse than burying your own child. But I’m sure Remus is taking care of her up there.’ Andromeda said with glistening eyes. Harry lowered his head and took a deep breath. The war had caused all these deaths and he couldn't help feeling responsible. The nightmares of the past summer were returning.

It was their choice. You had no choice because of the prophecy, love. But they did, and they chose to be by your side. I’m sure they don’t want you to live your life with so much guilt. Hermione’s voice filled Harry’s mind and he looked at her and nodded. She was right. The only thing he could do now was to help the ones the war left behind.

After some talking and tea; Harry, Hermione and Andromeda had their dinner in a happy mood. Harry hadn’t asked about Teddy yet; he was probably asleep so Harry didn’t want to disturb the baby. When Harry and Hermione were in the living room again and Andromeda was ready to bring a chocolate cake she had made, a high-pitched cry was heard and Andromeda excused herself for a few moments. When she returned, she had Teddy with her. The baby was much larger than Harry remembered him at the funerals. Harry smiled at the sight. Both he and Hermione stood up and approached as Andromeda entered the living room. The infant stretched his hands towards Hermione and she blushed and smiled at the little boy.

‘Could you please hold him for awhile? I’ll bring the cake,’ Andromeda said and Hermione nodded. Andromeda handed the baby to Hermione and the boy immediately changed his hair color to a darker brown, matching Hermione’s. Harry looked at her with the baby in her arms and, for the very first time, Harry hoped his future could be somehow like that. For the first time, Harry wanted a future with his ‘Mione and a family of his own. He could clearly see happiness with Hermione by his side. He could imagine children with messy or bushy hair, with emerald or chocolate brown eyes calling him “daddy” in a peaceful household with Hermione there, being their “mummy”. A family was something he had wanted desperately for a long time. Only with Hermione as his wife, his bright best friend, his passionate girlfriend, his love.

Hermione seemed to sense his feelings and read his thoughts. She smiled sweetly at him and moved closer so Teddy was between them and the boy would notice his godfather. Harry looked down at the little boy and saw beautiful, honest eyes looking back at him. Teddy’s eyes changed from brown to bright green, imitating Harry’s. Both Harry and Hermione smiled at the little boy and Harry caressed the baby’s soft hair. He looked up at Hermione again.

‘You look beautiful with a baby in your arms,’ Harry said. Hermione smiled and looked at the boy.

‘Thank you, love. I think he likes us,’ Hermione said and Harry nodded and hugged Hermione with one arm as they kept looking at the baby. Teddy was resting his head on Hermione’s shoulder and was playing with his fingers. ‘You want to hold him?’ Hermione asked and Harry nodded a bit nervously. Hermione placed the baby in Harry’s arms and the baby didn’t seem to mind. Teddy changed his hair to black and Hermione chuckled and tickled the infant’s cheek. ‘He looks like you,’ Hermione said and Harry looked at the now green eyed and raven haired baby.

‘He does,’ Harry murmured as he studied Teddy’s face and recognized Nymphadora’s nose and Remus’ lips. ‘He’s really cute,’ Harry said and Hermione nodded as she rested her head on Harry’s other shoulder. Teddy closed his eyes slowly and both Harry and Hermione fell silent as they watched the baby falling asleep.

I think he’s lucky to have you as a godfather, Harry. Hermione said in Harry’s mind. He looked at her and kissed her forehead.

He’s even luckier to have you as his Aunt Hermione. Harry said through their bond.

He won’t be able to say my name properly for a very long time. Hermione replied and Harry chuckled.

It’s your curse, love; he can call you ‘Mione, or even ‘Mi… Auntie-Mi. What’s cuter than that? Harry said and Hermione poked him in the ribs. Andromeda returned with a tray and smiled at them.

‘You two look nice with a baby,’ Andromeda said and Harry and Hermione blushed and smiled. When Harry and Hermione returned in the Grangers’ house, Hermione’s parents hadn’t returned yet, so the couple decided to go to bed.

‘You think we should sleep in the same room? Your parents don’t know about us yet…’ Harry said as they entered Hermione’s bedroom. She looked at him with worried eyes and spoke.

‘You’re right. My father wakes me on Christmas mornings. It’ll be a shock if he comes in to find you in bed with me this year…’ Hermione said and Harry nodded with a smile. ‘You can sleep in the guestroom. We’ll talk to them at lunch and then you can come in here for the rest of the time,’ Hermione said and Harry smiled but felt unsure of how her parents would react.

‘Everything will be fine. I’ve been talking to them about you for the last several years and you spent a few weeks here some months before… They know you and like you, love. Don’t worry.’ Hermione said as she sensed Harry’s insecurity. Harry nodded in defeat and took his wand out to lift his trunk. He took Prong’s cage and moved down the hall. The couple got ready for bed and let Prongs out for the night.

‘It’ll be strange without you in my bed.’ Harry said as he trapped Hermione between his body and the corridor’s wall just outside of her bedroom. Hermione grinned and started nuzzling Harry’s neck, making him shiver.

‘It won’t be that bad… I promise I’ll make it up to you tomorrow and the day after and as long as you want…’ Hermione whispered in Harry’s ear and he bit his lip to suppress a groan.

‘Hermione, I have to sleep all alone in a cold bed and all you're doing is teasing me…’ Harry complained as he caressed Hermione’s sides.

‘You’ll survive,’ Hermione replied with a grin and slipped from his trap against the wall. ‘Good night love,’ she added and pecked his lips one last time.

Harry opened his eyes the next morning at the feel of two soft, familiar lips pressed against his. He hugged Hermione and pulled her onto the bed with him.

‘Happy Christmas, Harry.’ Hermione said as the kiss ended.

‘Happy Christmas, Mione,’ Harry replied. He looked out the window, seeing that snow had covered everything. He checked a clock on the nightstand; it was almost eleven.

‘You overslept and I didn’t want to wake you, but it’s time for our presents and I can’t wait.’ Hermione said. Harry checked the closed door of the guestroom. ‘I told them I’d wake you so we can’t be late.’ Hermione said as she followed his eyes and saw the closed door too. Harry sighed and turned and kissed her again.

‘Pity. It’d be a nice way to start the day.’ Harry said and started nuzzling Hermione’s neck.

‘It’ll be a nice way to end the day, I promise.’ Hermione said and Harry nodded, excited. ‘Until, then, get up and dressed. I’ll be waiting downstairs.’ Hermione said and stood up. Harry nodded, less happy, and did as he was told. Hermione left his bedroom and Harry followed when he was ready, some minutes later.

‘Happy Christmas, dear.’ Mrs. Granger was the first who greeted him with a motherly hug when he moved downstairs.

‘Happy Christmas, Mrs. Granger. Thank you for your hospitality.’ Harry said and Jane Granger beamed at him and led him to the dining room for his breakfast. Hermione beamed like her mother did when she saw him. Edward Granger stood up and shook hands with Harry.

‘Happy Christmas, son.’ Mr. Granger said and Harry smiled and replied. Harry sat close to Hermione, Mrs. Granger sat opposite them, at her husband’s right side and all of them started their breakfast. After that, the Grangers and Harry opened their gifts. Both Harry and Hermione had more gifts than ever; gifts from the Weasleys, Hagrid, Luna, Neville, the Grangers and many people who had sent gifts or letters with best wishes, people who didn’t know them but thanked them for the end of the war and the destruction of Voldemort. Ron had sent Harry a book called Twelve more Fail-Safe Ways to Charm Witches with a note about the book being the continuation of the first one and that it’d helped him with Hermione. Hermione looked at him and then the book and chuckled.

‘Oh there is a sequel; I thought Ron would be fine with the first one.’ Hermione said and looked back at her gifts, reading a random letter.

‘You knew about the first one?’ Harry asked and Hermione looked back at him.

‘Yes, I saw it once; under his pillow. He was trying to read it behind my back but once I entered his room without knocking with Ginny. He tried to hide it, but Mrs. Weasley wanted both him and Ginny downstairs so I had the chance and looked at what book Ronald Weasley was reading in the middle of the summer… I then realized why his behavior had changed so dramatically; in a ridiculous way I might add. I don't think it helped him much…’ Hermione said. ‘How do you know about the first one?’ Hermione asked and Harry cleared his throat.

Busted.

‘Well, Ron had given it to me before we left for the "Horcrux Hunt". I never read it to be honest, it never excited me.’ Harry said and put that book along with the Unberian necklace, a jewel of random, broken pieces of plastic Luna had sent him and explained to Harry through her letter that this necklace would bring him luck. Hermione smiled and touched his hand as her parents were busy with their gifts.

‘You don’t need manuals to know how to treat a woman, I can assure you.’ Hermione whispered to him and Harry smiled at the sight of her warm, brown eyes.

‘Good to know, because sometimes, I don’t know what you woman, want.’ Harry said and Hermione smiled.

‘Sometimes, I don’t know either.’ Hermione replied and examined her Unberian Necklace.

I hope you’ll remember what you said when we have a fight over nothing…

We never fight over nothing, Harry.

True.

When all the gifts were open, Mrs. Granger asked Hermione to help her with the lunch. When Harry offered to help as well Mrs. Granger beamed at him but declined gently, wanting him to stay where he was and relax. Hermione and her mother left the kitchen and Harry was left behind with Mr. Granger. The older man smiled at Harry and spoke.

‘I’m very happy Hermione has someone like you close to her. I trust you, Harry.’ Mr. Granger said and Harry smiled.

‘Thank you, sir. Your daughter is wonderful and I trust her more than anyone else in my life. She’s the one who helped me the most through the past years.’ Harry said and Mr. Granger smiled and nodded. Hermione’s voice was heard, calling them into the dinning room. Everyone sat down and started serving each other the meal that Mrs. Granger had cooked.

‘It’s delicious Mrs. Granger.’ Harry said and smiled at Hermione’s mother who beamed at him and blushed slightly.

‘Thank you darling, I’m glad you like it.’ Mrs. Granger said.

Hermione looked at him and smiled as well. I told you, you don’t need books to be good with women. Harry just smiled back at her.

We should tell them now. Hermione sent to Harry through their bond once lunch was finished.

OK, let me start. Harry said and Hermione nodded slightly and took his hand, getting both of her parents’ attention with her gesture. Harry remembered all the things he had planned to say the night before.

‘Mr. and Mrs. Granger,’ Harry started and Hermione’s parents looked at him. Harry looked at Hermione and she smiled at him before he turned to her parents once more. ‘Hermione and I have been together for the last few months. We both hope you’re fine with our relationship. We love each other very much and wanted to tell you the news on a day like this,’ Harry said. He immediately felt Hermione’s nervousness through their bond and couldn’t help but feel rather nervous himself. Hermione’s parents, at first, seemed taken aback, but soon, huge grins lit up their faces and Mrs. Granger covered her mouth with her hands in surprise and joy. Hermione’s father smiled widely and patted Harry’s shoulder.

‘This is wonderful news. I’m sure our daughter made the best choice,’ Edward Granger said and both Harry and Hermione let out sighs of relief.

‘I’m so happy for you two. Why didn’t you say anything sooner?’ Mrs. Granger asked smiling. ‘Both your father and I always believed you’d end up with Harry, dear.’ Mrs. Granger said to her daughter and Hermione smiled at her mother.

‘We’ve been together since September but we wanted to see how it would go before we told you,’ Hermione said and Harry squeezed her hand.

‘Hermione was always talking about you, Harry; during the summers, at Christmas, and anytime she was with us, you were the subject of her flattering reports,’ Mr. Granger said and this time Hermione squeezed Harry’s hand.

‘Hermione is the only person who never abandoned me; I just needed time to realize that she is the best for me,’ Harry said and Hermione beamed at him.

‘We have to celebrate. Jane, what about that great cake you made, dear? The young couple here will love it. Hermione, why don’t you help your mom?’ Mr. Granger said and both his daughter and wife nodded, smiling, and moved to the kitchen. Harry was left behind again with a smiling Mr. Granger in the dining room. The older man looked at Harry and placed his arms on the table in front of him. ‘Listen, Harry,’ Mr. Granger started and Harry felt nervous in a heartbeat. ‘I’m sure my little girl has helped you very much through the years. She’s bright, and no one can doubt that. But now, with me and her mother older and farther away from her because of her age and changes in her life, I want you to take care of her. I don’t want you to buy her gifts and expensive stuff; Hermione doesn’t need those things. I’m sure you know that. I want you to love her, to give her all the love she couldn’t experience in the War. Can you do that?’ Mr. Granger asked and Harry looked at the man’s brown eyes.

‘Mr. Granger, I’ll do my best to make your daughter the happiest woman in the world. She made me the happiest man, so I swear I’ll do my best for her,’ Harry said and Mr. Granger smiled widely and patted Harry’s shoulder again.

‘That’s more than enough for me, Harry. I really believe my daughter made the right choice. And please, call me Edward. I’m not that old,’ Hermione’s father said and both men chuckled.

‘Thank you for your trust, Edward,’ Harry said smiling even though he felt a bit strange to be calling Hermione’s father by his given name. Harry hadn’t blocked his and Hermione’s bond so he was sure she had heard his chat with her father. He could sense her joy and relief.

The afternoon was peaceful with Christmas music and a few visitors, neighbors and a couple of Hermione’s cousins who showed up to wish them a happy Christmas. Harry was happy to meet more of Hermione’s family members. When the night arrived, Harry and Hermione were watching television with Hermione’s parents in the living room. When the movie they’d been watching ended, Mr. Granger changed the channel and a scene of a snow-covered graveyard came into view. As it seemed, it was a TV show with a couple walking in that graveyard. Harry immediately remembered where he was twelve months ago. He felt Hermione’s eyes on him and looked at her.

If you want, we can go and visit them. Hermione’s voice said in Harry’s mind and he nodded slowly. He didn’t know why, but he needed to visit his parents again. The first time he did was under the terror of the War. Now, with his life settled, he could return. He could go and visit them again. Harry stood up first and Hermione followed shortly after. Harry excused himself and moved to the hall to get their coats. Hermione explained to her parents and they nodded in understanding. Harry helped Hermione with her coat and together they apparated right outside of the gate of the graveyard.

Are you sure, love? Hermione asked Harry through their bond.

Yes, but I want you with me, like the first time. Harry replied and Hermione slipped her arm around his waist. Harry slipped his around her back and wordlessly pushed the gate open and started walking through the graves. They passed Dumbledore’s mother and sister but didn’t stop. Harry couldn’t stop; he was feeling like he needed to see his parents’ graves, to make sure their sacrifice wasn't in vain.

The couple reached the two gravestones and Harry kneeled on the untouched snow. He used his bare hands to take the snow off the stones and read his parents’ names and dates of birth and death. He also read the small line at the bottom. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is Death. Harry’s eyes teared up and he blinked rapidly, not to let them fall. He felt Hermione’s warm hand on his shoulder and he closed his eyes at her touch. He felt her kneeling next to him and taking her wand out of her pocket. She made the same, beautiful roses she had made twelve months before and placed them between James and Lilly’s graves. The couple fell into silence, just staring at the tombs in the peace of the graveyard.

Harry could remember his parents before he entered the forest. He felt sorry for not talking to them about other things rather than how scared he was about dying. He felt sorry not telling them how proud and grateful he was to them. He was sorry for not telling how much he loved both of them.

They know, love. They always did and always will. Hermione sent to Harry through the bond and Harry smiled and reached for her hand, placing a kiss on her palm. He kept her hand close to his face, feeling worm and comforted.

‘This, mom, dad, is the woman I love like nothing else in the world. She was always there, no matter what. No matter how much I yelled, no matter how I acted around her, no matter how thickheaded I was... She was always there, when people like Ron weren't. She sacrificed everything for me and even if I realized it late, I love her with all my heart. You two and Dumbledore helped me but she helped me the most, to survive and beat Tom Riddle. I’m sure you know how much she helped, how much she always cared for me. Now, it’s time for both me and her to enjoy the life we won in the War; the life you gave me. I love you mom and dad. I always will.’ Harry said and stood up. He helped Hermione to do the same and hugged her tightly, finally letting the tears fall and get lost in Hermione’s arms.

‘Thank you so much for being here. For loving me.’ Harry said as he tightened his hug. Hermione started stroking his hair and back, soothing his pain.

‘It’s OK, love. I’ll always be here, I promise, Harry.’ Hermione replied and Harry broke the hug, cupped Hermione’s face and kissed her lips hungrily.

‘I love you, Hermione, no matter what. I love you and I owe you so much.’ Harry said as the kiss ended, Hermione’s eyes were filled with tears as well. Each of their breaths were turning to soft, white smoke because of the cold and the only light was the moon’s glow.

‘You owe me nothing, love. I’m sure you’d do the same and more for me. I love you too, sweetheart,’ Hermione said and Harry hugged her again, caressing her back and losing his hands in her hair, smelling her beautiful scent and kissing her temple, pressing her body against his and letting her feel his emotions through their bond. They were one indeed. She was his and he was hers. He wanted this moment to last forever.

After a few minutes in the silence of the graveyard, Harry and Hermione broke their hug and wiped each other’s tears. Hermione conjured a small orchid and Harry took the fragile flower, kissed its petals and placed it close to the roses Hermione had made before. He read the small line on the tombstones once more and then turned and looked at Hermione.

‘I’m ready. We can go.’ Harry said and Hermione nodded. He put his arm around Hermione's shoulders while she put hers around his waist, and they turned in silence and walked away through the snow, past Dumbledore's mother and sister, back toward the dark church and the out-of-sight kissing gate.
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Harry Potter and the End of Illusions