Paris

~Paris- Chapter Four~

" A Very Happy Wizard"

The next day was perfectly clear, when Harry looked out his windows. It was very early, and he could see the sun coming up over the tops of some trees, like a huge cherry.He tried to be confident about the day ahead. After all, if he could play quidditch, he should be able to help sail a small boat.

Harry heard a sound behind him, and turned to see Hermione come from her room. She looked very sleepy, and he thought he'd like nothing better than to take Hernione and crawl back under a blanket. He'd never seen anyone look so huggable.Well, it wouldn't hurt to ask..

"It's awfully early to be up," he told her." Why don't I grab the quilt Sirius gave me, and we can nap on the couch for awhile? It's going to be a busy day, we need to save our energy."

She yawned and nodded sleepily. "I would be still asleep, but I was thirsty. Then I thought I heard you, and that you might have had trouble sleeping." Sinking down into the pillows, she yawned again and murmured, " Get the quilt and come back, I'll rub your back for you a bit."

Harry made a dash back into his room, and soon was leaning comfortably against Hermione's knees, while she massaged his neck and shoulders. "Ah, where were you all those nights I couldn't sleep, worrying about dragons, magic eggs and mazes.?"

"I didn't know then that a back rub and some hugs could help more than a couple of hours in the library." she replied, wrapping him in a hug that made Harry shiver with contentment, but also realize sleep was now the last thing on his mind.

"I'll be taking the Invisibility Cloak to the library each time now," he told her. "We'll probably need more study breaks this year. or different kinds anyway. All that studying for the OWLS, I'm going to need to totally clear my mind and concentrate on YOU! I can tell, it's the only way I'll get a single OWL."

"Kiss me, Harry,and stop talking. My parents will be up soon and...." Whatever Hermione meant to say, Harry never heard. He might not ever be at the top of the class, but he'd make sure the future Head Girl stayed happy.He had never been able to hold Hermione quite this way before, mostly in his lap, with her head resting on the pillows. Somehow the rest of the world kind of faded into a foggy haze. Now, if only Chris and Ivy could be expected to have a lie in. This was better than all their times in the park. Hermione had never been this enthusiastic before, or felt this soft. Unfortunately (or perhaps very fortunately, since neither of them seemed able to stop) they soon heard the sounds of Chris whistling, and knew their time was up.

Hermione sat up quickly, and tried to smooth her hair and nightgown, but almost immediately whispered in a frustrated tone "Oh, this is hopeless!" and Harry realized she was right. He had apparently been pretty enthusiastic as well.. Hermione's hair was rumpled beyond a quick smoothing, and her nightgown was wrinkled as if she'd been having some very active dreams the night before. He wondered if he looked the same.

"Maybe we'd better get back to our own rooms?" he suggested. "But Hermione, let's do this again tomorrow morning. Being with you this way sure gets the day started better than orange juice and bacon."

Hermione nodded and gave Harry a last kiss before they disappeared into their rooms to dress for the day. It didn't take long to get ready, with the day on the water ahead, Harry wore his favorite green shirt that Hermione had picked out, saying it made his eyes look dreamy. He was awfully glad he'd finally gotten some help with his clothes. It made him feel a little embarrassed now to think what a clown he must have once looked like, and was more grateful than ever for the robes they wore at school.

When he came back into the lounge, Hermione was out on the terrace with Ivy, and Chris was drinking coffee with the Daily Prophet open before him. When Harry came into the room, he looked up. " Nice day for getting out of the city." he told Harry brightly. "We've hired a car to get there, then Ivy and I plan to do some bicycling with Marielle and her husband while you kids are out on the water."

"Great!" said Harry, happily." I was hoping our plans hadn't messed up anything you were doing. Just hope I don't get out there and make a prat of myself, falling in or something." He shuddered and continued, "Those kids, Danielle and Max seem pretty easy to get to know, but I can tell, they've spent a lot of time on the water. I never thought to ask Hermione, but has she sailed before?" He hated himself, but couldn't help hoping the answer would be no.

Chris seemed to have figured this out,and said carefully, "Well, not a lot. She's been out a few times, and you know, Hermione does tend to pick things up rather easily." Harry groaned and Chris added hastily, "She's no expert Harry. I'd still feel better if you kept a close eye on her, I'd hate to see either of you have any close calls out there. Can I count on you?"

Now this was something Harry could promise wholeheartedly. He felt he'd barely taken his eyes off Hermione when they were together for days. He knew though, that Chris was expecting something more than the longing looks he and Hermione had been exchanging recently. "Sure, I'll do my best. Hermione is pretty stubborn when she makes up her mind though."

"I know, "replied Chris with a grin. "Ivy is out there now, giving her a few 'safety suggestions.that I'm sure she'll totally ignore. All we can do is hope for the best. Ivy can't say much really. She has always tended to be a risk taker herself. I thought Hermione was going to be easier. She was so.... sensible as a little girl.'

"Before she met me and Ron you mean. It's OK, I'm afraid it's true. None of us ever expects the things that happen.They just suddenly do happen." Chris had opened his mouth to reply when the door opened and Hermione and her mother came in. Harry was happy to see Hermione was wearing his favorite red and white outfit, the one that made her skin look so smooth and brown. He frowned slightly, sort of wishing her shorts were a little longer, since she'd be around Max all day, but also knew he'd miss looking at those long legs himself.

"Harry!" he heard Hermione say in a loud voice that seemed to be coming from far away. With some difficulty, he refocused his eyes on, not Hermione's legs, but her face. She looked as if she didn't know whether to feel flattered or angry, but in the end seemed to settle for a bit of impatience in her voice. "Aren't you going to come have breakfast so we can leave soon. We have a bit of a drive, I think"

Feeling himself go red, Harry quickly moved to the table where Hermione and Ivy had seated themselves, and attempted to make some conversation that was as far away from the subject of legs or shorts as possible. Hermione didn't make it very easy though. He couldn't swear it was or wasn't intentional, but somehow their legs seemed to constantly end up pressed against each other.

Finally, they were ready, and then on their way. Harry had often heard about the beauty of the French countryside, but nothing had really prepared him for the amazing colors. As usual, Hermione was in her element, playing tour guide, but with the added interest of tickling Harry at the most inopportune times. Everytime they passed something that was particularly worthy of notice, she began telling about the historical significance, while at the same time making sure he nearly choked with laughter. Finally Ivy turned in her seat and aid, "Harry, you sound as if you're coming down with a cold. Perhaps we should postpone this?"

" Oh, no, I'm feeling fine!" he answered quickly. "I probably should have had another glass of milk with breakfast. Got a bit of toast in my throat." His eyes fixed on Hermione and he told her silently, "You'll pay for this, you wait." and she responded with her tongue out. 'Oh, it was nice to just be silly on a holiday!' he thought. If this could only go on forever, no Voldemort, no Dursleys or Malfoy to be watchful of, never knowing when he was going to be a target.

The rest of the trip was uneventful, aside from a stop to get a cold drink. While Ivy and Chris talked to the owner of the small shop, Harry managed to chase and catch Hermione behind a huge old tree, where he was able to pay her back a bit with some tickling of his own. All too soon, they heard Ivy call them, and they set off again.The house they eventually stopped in front of was old and made of many colors of stone, In some ways, it made Harry think of the Burrow, but this house didn't seem as if it would tip over. Parts had been added, but it looked as if a good deal of thought had been given to where and why. The house definitely had an enchanted look.

"I think we have the answer to our question about Marielle's children." Ivy told them. "No one growing up in this house could possibly be non-magic. I'd never met her husband, and since I'd left the wizarding world when we met, the subject of wizards and witches was not one we discussed. I never wanted to" She hesitated a moment, looking at Harry, then seemed to feel the need to go on. "After Lily and James were gone, it didn't seem possible to laugh again, but Marielle proved me wrong."

They left the car and went up to the house. Immediately the door opened, and Marielle appeared ."Hermione, Harry - you should run on down to the water. Max is very anxious to start. I think he fears I may still change my mind " She gave a shrug that reminded Harry of Fleur, and handed each of them a basket. "I think all of you may wish for some food later. Max hurried Dani off before Elise could finish packing the baskets. She is very protective of Dani and Max, and just knew they would be starved."

Harry and Hermione set off toward the water, and could hear Marielle saying something about house elves. "So we know they aren't muggles." said Harry. "Now, do you reckon they go to Beauxbatons? Shall we ask?" Hermione didn't answer and he saw she had turned slightly pale under her tan."What.. .."

Hermione was pointing wordlessly to where Max and Danielle were in their sailboat. When Harry looked, he knew he must have become even whiter than Hermione. He could see another figure in the boat, a boy with silver blonde hair. A person he had hoped to avoid at least until term began.

"We have to go down there, Harry. We can say hello and say our plans have changed but we have to say something." Hermione looked angry and disappointed, and suddenly Harry made up his mind. None of the Weasleys were there to help them out, but that was okay. He and Hermione were going to have their day on the water, and no ferret-faced Draco Malfoy was going to spoil it. He reached over,. took Hermione's hand and squeezed it.

"They invited us and we're staying. Besides, your parents have plans for the day and we aren't going to give that jerk the satisfaction of seeing us leave. Come on." Hermione squeezed his hand in return, then hugged him.

"You're worth a million of Malfoy, and you're right! Let's go!" she said bravely.

A few moments later, they were at the water, and Max was helping them into the boat "Hope you don't mind, another friend is joining us. I'd like you to meet a great sailor and master potion maker. This is Adrian Malfoy."

The boy immediately put out his hand to shake Harry's and then Hermione's, giving them a big grin. Harry felt a combination of relief and confusion flood him and he could tell Hermione felt the same way. Could this be some kind of trick? But Draco Malfoy would never offer to shake hands with either he or Hermione. And Draco never had such a firm handshake or a direct, friendly look. His words were very different from anything Draco might say as well.

"Sorry to come along at the last minute, and make things crowded. I leave for England next week though, and couldn't resist the chance to sail, or to meet some Hogwarts students." He grimaced and continued," Especially ones that my dear cousin Draco speaks of so fondly. I know we're destined to be friends. I thought perhaps you could give me some ideas on staying out of that place he keeps saying I'll automatically be placed. Some damned dungeon called Slytherin."

Without another thought, Harry began filling Adrian in on some of the more colorful contacts he, Hermione and the Weasleys had experienced with Draco and other Slytherins. He saw Max hadn't been exaggerating about Adrian's sailing skills. He was listening to Harry, asking a question or adding an observation while pretty much taking over the running of the boat. Max and Dani followed his causally given suggestions quickly, and soon they were far into the center of the lake.

"Erm, I know it isn't my place to ask, but I can't help being curious. We'll love having you there, but why have you decided to come to school in England?" asked Hermione. "Is your family leaving France too?"

Adrian shook his head and looked glum for a moment. "No, they will all be here. it is only because of my, "talent " for making potions that I will come to Hogwarts. Uncle Lucius has convinced Father and Mother Hogwarts has the most talented potions professor in any of the wizarding schools. Myself, I do not like the sound of the fellow, but I have little choice."

"Then you do have a problem!" said Harry."I agree Slytherin is not the most pleasant place. But the potions professor is also head of Slytherin house. He'll be much easier to get along with if you're in his house. In any other house, he may see you as a threat to his own students."

"That won't bother Adrian!" put in Danielle. "He is brave as well as talented!" then going very red she seemed to find it of the greatest importance to check the contents of the lunch baskets. Max nudged Harry and whispered, "Dani has always had a bit of a tendre' for Adrian. She isn't doing too well, knowing he's leaving. Been hounding Mama and Papa to allow her a year at Hogwarts as well."

For the first time Harry saw a slight resemblance to Draco in Adrian's face, as he gave Max an annoyed look. " Leave her alone, Max. Dani is young and she will have many feelings of this sort. I am honored to be among the first. Your sister is going to surprise you one of these days, and perhaps it will be you trying to hide the embarrassment. "

" You'll be in Gryffindor." stated Hermione. Harry looked at her surprised. When had Hermione begun second guessing the Sorting Hat? She looked at him and laughed. "Think about it, Harry.He's not taking the easy way. He's having the courage to stand up to his friend as well as those who aren't friends. Those are Gryffindor traits."

Harry had to admit, when Hermione was right she was right. Now for a really important question."Let's say you're right, Hermione, and you probably are."giving her a hug and a kiss on the cheek." I say the question now is 'Do you play Quidditch?' and if so, what position?"

"Ah, I have been known to play a bit. Mostly I have been a keeper." answered Adrian, giving Max a warning look, which he ignored.

"A bit? Harry, Adrian has been keeper since his second year at school. I don't know how we'll have a team without him."

Max shook his head despairingly, and Dani called out, in a slightly muffled voice, " Perhaps you will be given a chance to play at last, dear brother!"

This sent them all into spasms of laughter, and Max, after a moment, joined in. "It could be you're both right. Dani is going to be a surprise, and I may finally get another glance from the team captain.at tryouts this year."

Harry felt a surge of optimism about the coming year's Quidditch for the first time. There had been no Quidditch the previous year, because of the Triwizard tournament. Now if things worked out as they hoped, possibly there would be a replacement for Oliver Wood at last. "How would you feel about playing against your cousin, Adrian? He's seeker for Slytherin, you probably know."

Adrian laughed, but it was a mirthless laugh."Know? Oh,. my cousin and my uncle have made sure everyone connected with our families knows about his "high position". If things followed their usual pattern, Uncle Lucius bought him the position."

"Well spotted!" exclaimed Harry and Hermione, though they could barely speak for laughing.

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It wasn't long until the group in the boat began to feel food was the most important thing on earth. They found a medium sized island, and the boat was guided to shore. In a very short time, a fire had been lit, sausages were sizzling, and they were eating bread, cheese and fruit. Adrian, Dani and Max began discussing races they had sailed in together, and though Harry and Herione listened politely, it was soon obvious the conversation had lost them. Danielle was the first to notice.

"Oh, we are being thoughtless!" she exclaimed, "It is just that the three of us have shared so many adventures on the water, and Adrian will be gone when we race again."

"No need to be sorry. " Harry said kindly. "Hermione and I might explore the island a bit. It isn't very big, we could walk around. I think I might fall asleep if I don't move soon."

"There are some very nice berry bushes on the island," said Max, smacking his lips and rubbing his stomach. "Perhaps you could bring back a few from your exploring? A snack before we sail back, to help our energy."

They all laughed, Harry and Hermione as hard as Dani and Adrian. They had learned quickly that Ron and Max had something in common. Their thoughts were often with their stomachs. Taking up one of the now empty food baskets, they set off along a narrow path that led back into a grove of trees. They were barely hidden from the others when Harry put both hands around Hermione's waist, stopping her so suddenly, she fell against him."Sorry, Herm, I can't wait any longer for a kiss- okay?

" Okay? Okay? Have you lost your mind? Are you a wizard?" She threw her arms around Harry, kissed him twice, then pretended to shake him angrily. "I thought we would never get away by ourselves!"

"And now that we have, do you think you're going to get away from me with just those two little kisses?" Harry held Hermione tightly to him and began to kiss her shoulders and neck, thinking he had never felt or smelled anything more delicious than her smooth, sun warmed skin. He lifted his head and said in a voice that sounded croaky even to himself, "Guess we should go on a bit. Maybe find a nice grassy spot. I suddenly feel that I'm not going to be able to stand much longer. Sleepier than I thought, I reckon."

"Let's go then" .Hermione answered. "We'll find a nice soft grassy spot, but don't expect much in the way of getting a nap. I have other plans for you, Harry Potter!"

It was probably an hour later that Harry heard soft laughter near him, and warily opened one eye. Max, Adrian and Dani were standing around ten feet from where he and Hermione lay, stretched out comfortably on the warm, fragrant grass with their heads resting on a mossy pillow. Hermione was still sleeping peacefully, but he realized suddenly that their legs were tangled together and his hand was still on the inside of Hermione's shirt, resting on her back and keeping her nestled close to him.

"Er, hello. Very comfy, this grass of yours. Don't know that we have any so soft in England." he said quickly, knowing he was several shades of red, but he had to say something, didn't he?

"Sure you aren't talking about Hermione's back being soft, Harry?" Max chortled, but just as quickly gave an "oof " of pain. Harry could heard Danielle say something in rapid French that he couldn't understand. He didn't think Dani was complimenting Max on his astuteness and charm though.

"We should begin the trip back shortly. See you two in a bit?" Adrian asked softly, as Hermione began to stir. Harry nodded, and Dani and Adrian shepherded Max away. Harry couldn't help noticing Max wore a look of equal mirth and envy, and knew he wouldn't trade places with anyone in the world right now. Hermione stretched and smiled at him in a way that made his heart feel it had turned over in his chest. Oh, to be able to repeat the last hour.

"Time to go, isn't it?" she said sleepily, rubbing her face against the front of his shirt, and tracing circles on his back. Her face went into a mock pout. " I wish we could stay here all night. I didn't get enough kisses!'

Harry laughed and, gathering all his resolve, pulled Hermione to a sitting, then standing position."And you think that's possible?" he said, teasingly. "I know I'll never have "enough" of your kisses. Knowing won't stop me from trying though!"

Reluctantly but smiling happily they made their way back to the spot the others were waiting, only stopping four or five times for the "last" kiss, and knowing they were in for lots of teasing as they sailed back

It had been a very satisfying day, and Harry couldn't help wishing once again that this holiday could go on forever. Still, there was his birthday in two days and he knew something special had been planned,even though Chris, Ivy and Hermione insisted on being mysterious. A happy mystery- he could do with more of those in his life. Once again he sighed contentedly, and squeezed Hermione's hand as they rejoined the group.

To be continued........