The Time for Love

One of the last days of the school year was drawing to a close. Flowers were blooming and the trees were covered in dark green leaves. The sun cast off dimming rays and the air lingered with fading heat. The sky was blood red with traces of purple and pink clouds. Most students were out of classes by now and were enjoying the clear weather.

Tall elm trees surrounded the lake and some students had taken refuge under the towering branches. Some sat alone reading, doing homework, or others were cuddled up with someone special. Under one tree which was partially hidden to everyone else lay Harry Potter and Ron Weasley. Both boys were flat on their backs and looked quite relaxed. They talked in low murmurs reflecting about the last year they went through, and what would happen over the upcoming summer.

"We had great times Harry," said Ron. "Think Dumbledore will let you go straight home with me this summer? I know he never has...but it's safer at our house than at the Dursley's."

Harry sighed and hoped Ron was right. "Maybe he will. I'll try and persuade him to let me go with you."

The conversation came to a lull, and both boys laid there in silence. Harry glanced over at Ron quickly, who looked quite content. Harry tried to remain composed but his thoughts were whirling and he felt his palms get all sweaty. He's right there. Just tell him...what if I never get another chance. But he looks so content. Should I ruin the moment? I don't even know if he feels more than brotherly love for me. Harry closed his eyes and tried to think of something rational to do.

At the same time Harry was stressing, Ron had thoughts on his mind too. I don't like this silence. Does he suspect that I'm not telling him something? Maybe I should just get it out. But what if he doesn't like me in that way and he ends up not coming to visit this summer. I'd feel like a total idiot. I better not risk it. Ron shook his head slightly at himself, but kept quiet.

The wind rustled the branches and

the grass fluttered and swayed with the breeze. Harry watched Ron out of the corner of his eye, noticing every small detail down to the way Ron would blow the hair off of his forehead. He swallowed hard, wondering what Ron would think if he knew how much Harry thought about him. He turned away sighing and gazed up through the tree branches into the sky. Ron heard Harry sigh and rolled over onto his side.

"Something the matter Harry? You sound like you have a lot on your mind. I noticed that you're more quiet than usual today." Ron looked deep into Harry's eyes with concern.

Harry turned his head to face Ron. He smiled at how much concern Ron felt for him. "No, there's nothing the matter Ron. I'm just sad about facing the Dursleys for another summer."

Ron could tell Harry was keeping something from him, but he decided not to push him. He was sure Harry would come around when he felt like talking. He just nodded at Harry and laid back down.

Harry gazed at Ron, then back up to the sky wishing he could muster up the courage to just spit it out. He tried to think in his head a little speech he could say but everything sounded dumb. He sat up quickly and turned towards Ron, knowing he had to get it out before his mind would change.

"Ron, I have to tell you something. I'm sure it'll sound dumb and if you hate me afterwards, don't hesitate to tell me. But I can't keep this a secret from you any longer."

Ron sat up facing Harry and his breath stopped. Harry has to tell me something? That sounds bad. I hope he didn't catch on to my feelings about him. If it is, please don't hate me Harry. He remained calm on the outside, and Harry continued.

"You're my best friend Ron. Ever since we met on the train to Hogwarts in our first year, we've been almost inseparable. Like brothers sort of. But lately, my feelings toward you have changed. Every time I see you or hear your voice my throat tightens up with this immense joy. I tried to stop it, because I figured you would hate me for it. But I can't control it anymore Ron. I love you."

Harry's eyes filled with tears and he hoped Ron wouldn't be angry at him. But inside Ron, he was bursting. Oh my Merlin, Harry loves me? He sat there speechless for a moment and Harry thought the worst. Oh, Ron hates me. Why did I ever say it out loud?

Ron took Harry's hand and squeezed it. "Harry, I never thought you would love me more than brothers. I've felt the same way for some time but I didn't want to look like a fool by saying something. Now I feel like a fool because of the time we wasted by keeping quiet."

Ron scooted closer to Harry and gazed up into his eyes. With his free hand he brushed hair out of Harry's face and smiled at him. Harry smiled back and leaned forward til his breath was tickling Ron's cheek. He hesitated a second then leaned forward and pressed his lips firmly against Ron's. Ron responded by wrapping his arms around Harry and pulling him closer. Their passionate kiss ended and Ron leaned his head on Harry's shoulder. Harry laid his head on top of Ron's and they held each other close. It was in this moment that Harry knew he could do anything as long as he has Ron's love.