Graduating

GRADUATING

By Lady Jane

Finally - the end! This is my first multi-chapter story and hope you've all enjoyed reading it half as much as I've enjoyed writing it - because I've had a ball with this (and learnt a few things on the way!). A sequel to "Oh, What A Night!" is already dancing around in my head so that'll be my next project! Many thanks to everyone who reviewed - it really is wonderful to get them!! xxxx Lady Jane xxxx

Chapter Six

The day of the Ball dawned fine and clear. Hermione woke and stretched, smiling and thinking about that night... about the Ball itself of course, but also, afterwards... Harry. Sweet Merlin but she wanted him SO badly! The fear she'd felt the night by the Lake had long since passed and although she had no doubt she'd probably feel a little nervous, she was no longer afraid. In fact, she thought impatiently, running her hands down over her own body; how would it feel when Harry did this... or this... or touched her here... or - dear God tonight seemed such a long time away! She hoped she'd look lovely for Harry... that he wouldn't change his mind - no, not possible! Her "surprise" she'd been teasing him about was really no more than speaking to their Divination Teacher, Firenze, to make sure he didn't mind her "visiting" his classroom after the Ball; he told her he didn't mind at all as he'd be attending the Ball and was staying with Hagrid afterwards. He asked no questions for which Hermione was grateful. Her thoughts returned to Harry. Tonight would be their first time. She felt butterflies take flight in her stomach then felt the heat gathering between her legs and the tension in her lower stomach as she thought of Harry lying on top of her, that hardness pressing into her stomach, making her want to spread her legs and... oh shit, it was going to be a LONG day.

Harry woke slowly, aware he felt hungry and - wait a minute! This was THE day! He lay perfectly still, now fully awake and suddenly filled with anticipation, nervousness and awe. Would he and Hermione REALLY make love after the Ball? All the little moments from the last few weeks seemed to be vying for a place in his head, all at once: Hermione saying she'd go to the Ball with him; Hermione telling Ron that of COURSE she fancied Harry; that first kiss in Hogsmeade and Hermione asking him to do it again; that night by the Lake... so much had happened - Hermione saying yes, she wanted him - that thinking about him made her wet! The indescribable feeling of her breast in his hand - how it felt to have her beneath him - Oh shit! He should know better than that by now - thinking like this always gave him a raging hard on, although since he'd woken up with one it just made him harder and even more uncomfortable and then came the memory of Hermione's sweet smile as she told him she couldn't wait to give it to him... He closed his eyes and reached over to his bedside table for his wand.

Hermione made it to the Great Hall for breakfast first, although Harry and Ron arrived only ten minutes later. Ron filled his plate and excused himself as he wanted to go and sit with Luna.

Hermione was sipping her tea as Harry filled his plate with eggs, bacon and sausages.

'How was your morning?' she asked him, an unfamiliar sense of strangeness washing over her. It really did feel rather peculiar sitting here, sipping tea, Harry eating breakfast when all that she was really interested in thinking about was... Making love. With Harry. Having sex. With Harry. Harry. And knowing that's just what she'd be doing that night. This was beyond DLTs! She closed her eyes, putting her elbows on the table and bringing her forehead forward to rest on her cup which she was holding with both hands.

'Hermione, are you all right?' asked Harry, concerned.

'I will be Harry, I will be.' She turned her head and looked at him, 'After tonight, I'll be fine. I think I'm just suffering a severe case of sexual frustration.'

Harry's knife and fork fell to his plate with a clatter, his eyes widening as he stared, unblinking, at Hermione. A strangled, 'What?' was the only sound he could make.

Hermione smiled apologetically. 'Sorry, I don't suppose that sounds very ladylike, does it? But I thought it was better than "horny" or "randy". Harry, close your mouth, it's not a pretty sight.'

Harry closed his mouth. Only Hermione, he thought, could sit at the breakfast table, sipping tea, discussing how horny and randy she felt. Shit. Why the hell hadn't he put his robes on this morning? Now he'd have to wait until he didn't look as though he'd stuffed a basket of the bread rolls off the table down his jeans before he could leave. She'd never cease to amaze him. Or make him hard.

'Hermione,' Harry smiled at her with a wicked gleam in his eyes, 'you have my permission to say whatever you want to and I promise I won't think you're unladylike and anytime you want your "sexual frustration" taken care of, just let me know, okay?'

'You can be sure of that,' she told him, an equally wicked gleam in her shining brown eyes.

That afternoon, the girls disappeared at about three o'clock to "get ready".

'How is it they need four hours to get ready?' complained Ron, 'FOUR hours! It's bloody ridiculous!'

He and Harry were playing chess in the common room.

Harry shrugged by way of reply. 'What does it matter? They'll look great and they'll be happy so I don't mind.' Harry remembered something then. 'By the way, why do you actually keep playing me when you always win?' he asked Ron.

Ron grinned at him. 'Well, you're the second best player after me and you always put up a good fight so it's not too boring.'

Harry grinned back him. 'Good to know.'

Harry and Ron went up at six o'clock to get ready. As they showered, Ron asked Harry what he and Hermione were planning on doing after the Ball. Harry felt his stomach suddenly become a butterfly farm.

'Actually, I wasn't sure whether we should walk 'round the Lake again or maybe...' Maybe what? he thought to himself. The Room of Requirement? He hadn't actually thought it out, but probably... 'The Room of Requirement - I think that might be the better option,' he finished.

'Woh!' whistled Ron. 'Serious happenings, eh?' There was a tinge of jealousy in his voice.

Harry busied himself rinsing shampoo out of his hair so Ron wouldn't see how embarrassed he felt. His head was so full of what he and Hermione were planning on doing that night he hadn't even stopped to consider that Ron was probably only talking about snogging and nothing more.

'It's just a little more private, that's all,' he mumbled. 'What about you and Luna?'

'Our favourite spot,' said Ron, 'the Astronomy Tower. Beautiful view too!'

As they dried off, Ron asked Harry, 'D'you think the girls'll like our get up?'

'Yep. I told Hermione I was wearing a black tux with my dress robes and she just about swooned. Dunno what it is about girls and tuxes.' He pulled on his shirt, doing up the buttons.

'Luna wanted to know what colour I was wearing so she could match,' said Ron. He shook his head, smiling. 'Only a girl would think of that!' He pulled on his midnight blue waistcoat.

As they stood side by side in front of the mirror, making sure their ties were straight they smiled at each other.

'Last night at Hogwarts. Can't believe it,' said Ron.

'Me either,' replied Harry. 'It's sort of good and bad, isn't it?'

'Yeah. Well mate, we look bloody great, so let's go get 'em!'

The five dorm mates - Harry, Ron, Dean, Seamus and Neville - all shook hands, wishing each other a great night before sitting on their beds, holding their invitations waiting for the seconds until seven o'clock to pass.

* * * * * * * * *

The Antechamber was full of the sound of chatter, giggles, laughter and people calling out to one another. It was rather crowded which made it a little difficult to quickly find someone in particular. Arranging to make sure they sat at the same table later, Harry and Ron separated, looking for the girls. Ron found Luna first. She wore her blonde hair down, but she'd curled it; she'd applied light, flattering make up and was wearing a beautiful, midnight blue, satin evening dress with shoestring straps made of tiny imitation diamonds. It was close fitting, flaring out just before it reached the floor. She carried a matching wrap and evening purse. Ron's heart hammered in his chest as he approached her.

'You look beautiful!' he told her, awe and admiration fighting for supremacy in his eyes. Luna smiled dreamily up at him, bringing her hand up to softly touch his cheek. 'So do you,' she told him.

Harry spotted Hermione first. She was standing to the left of the doors that he thought must lead into the Ballroom itself. She was obviously looking for him, but while she was looking to her left, he was approaching from her right. As he got closer and could see her properly, his steps faltered. He had no words to describe how she looked. Her hair was piled softly on top of her head, with a number of soft curls falling to frame her face and trailing down her neck. She had tiny diamonds in her ears and a fine gold chain around her neck. Her face seemed to glow, her slightly parted lips softly coloured and shining. As he took in her dress, Harry could feel that familiar tension rising; she wore a simple black, strapless dress in some soft, shimmery fabric that clung to every curve down to her hips from where it fell straight to the floor. She was clutching a small, black evening purse made of the same material as her dress. Her soft, pale skin shimmered against the gown, making her look as though she was lit from within. He had to get to her. He started to walk again and she turned at that moment, the most beautiful smile he'd ever seen appearing on her face when she saw him. Then, as she took in his appearance he saw her eyes darken with an intensity of feeling. And he knew full well what that feeling was because it was also coursing through him. When he reached her, he took her free hand and brought it to his lips.

'Hermione, you look exquisite. And you are beautiful. You can't begin to imagine how I feel, knowing you're here with me.'

With Harry's lips on the back of her hand igniting a fire that coursed through every vein, Hermione was flooded with sensations. Harry was looking at her with such intense desire she felt her breath catch in her throat; his words caused her pulse to race, but mostly, her knees still felt weak from the impact of her first sight of him as he'd been walking towards her. She had thought he looked magnificent in the black tuxedo, his black silk dress robes, lined with the deepest green, gently rippling out behind him as he walked towards her.

At that moment, Professor Dumbledore appeared through the tall, carved wooden doors which seemed to open of their own accord. Hermione turned to look at Dumbledore, Harry standing directly behind her, his left hand sitting possessively on her waist. He wondered fleetingly what perfume she was wearing - it smelt quite intoxicating.

Then Dumbledore spoke, telling them they could enter the Ballroom, making sure they left their invitations in the large, decorative cauldrons provided for that purpose each side of the doors. They could sit where they pleased and in half an hour, he would address them all again. He turned and walked into the Ballroom, a stream of students following in his wake.

Harry kept his arm firmly around Hermione's waist, at the same time looking around for Ron and Luna. Luckily, Ron was quite tall and his red hair was easy to see in the distance. Harry and Hermione headed in his direction and when they reached them, they all seated themselves at one of the round tables situated on the edge of what was obviously the dance floor.

Each of the thirty plus round tables in the room sat eight and Harry and Hermione, Ron and Luna were joined by Neville and Lavender and Seamus and Parvati.

The dance floor was a huge oval with a stage, also oval shaped, situated in the centre on which was the large table (oval, of course!), no doubt for the teachers. The customary floating candles lit the Ballroom, throwing shadows on the walls which were draped in a soft, silvery fabric, interspersed at regular intervals with long oval mirrors, reflecting the candles and multiplying their glow a thousandfold. The ceiling, as in the Great Hall, was bewitched to look like the sky outside... or was it? Was that in actual fact the sky outside? It was hard to say. There was a small parchment at each seat which gave the menu and drink choices. You simply needed, they read, to tell your plate or glass what it was you wished to eat or drink.

Once everyone was seated and had a drink, Dumbledore rose to his feet and by simply raising his hands, an action visible to everyone, he achieved quiet.

'Thank you,' he said. 'I will refrain from boring you with the many stories of the past seven years as you are all probably quite familiar with them since they would be about you. My hope is that you all go forward to the future of your choice. I speak for all your teachers when I say that, as always, it has been a joy to have each of you here at Hogwarts and you will be sorely missed. One last matter: I wish to make a personal toast to Mr Harry Potter for his unfailing bravery and endeavours on behalf of all of us who wish to rid the world of Lord Voldemort. He has yet to meet our common foe for the last time but my faith in him is unshakeable and I truly believe he will prevail, no doubt with a little help from his friends whom I also honour: Miss Hermione Granger and Mr Ronald Weasley. Of everything you have all done that has made me proud, he has given me my proudest moments and I honour him. Thank you, Harry.' Dumbledore raised his glass to Harry who was sitting, stunned, looking at the smiling headmaster.

There was a sound of hundreds of chairs being pushed back as everyone stood to join in Dumbledore's toast, then the sound of those hundreds of voices saying in unison, 'Thank you, Harry.' Dumbledore's eyes twinkled with amusement as he saw that even the Slytherins, forced by common courtesy, stood, although many of them did not actually raise their glass.

'And now, let's eat!' called out Dumbledore, a huge grin on his face.

Harry turned to look at Hermione, the stunned expression still in place. Hermione smiled at him, then leaned forward and kissed him. 'What he said is true Harry; you can't know how proud I am to be your friend.' From the other side of Hermione, Ron leaned forward and winked at Harry. 'Ditto, mate,' he said with grin. 'Now let's eat!'

Harry laughed. 'Trust Ron to bring things into perspective!'

Both Harry and Hermione couldn't have told anyone what they ate. They knew it was delicious, but they were so caught up in the excitement of the night and the sea of anticipation in which they were swimming they noticed little else. Conversation flowed easily around and across the tables.

Hermione was sitting on Harry's right side, his arm resting on the back of her chair. Harry told his glass he'd like some Butterbeer and also ordered some for Hermione, earning himself a grateful smile and a kiss on the cheek. He objected.

'What was that?' he demanded.

'A kiss,' she replied.

'No, it wasn't,' replied Harry, 'this is a kiss,' and so saying, he turned towards her and putting his hand under Hermione's chin to tilt her face up to his, he bent down to kiss her slowly and sensually, gently probing with his tongue until she opened her mouth with a barely audible groan. Harry's hand slipped effortlessly around to the nape of Hermione's neck so she couldn't move, enabling him to hold her mouth hostage. As they finally moved apart, Harry smiled against Hermione's soft lips, 'Charlie was right, snogging is allowed.' Hermione had no idea what he was talking about and right now, with his lips on hers, she didn't care.

Then they heard it. It started out as a few soft notes, floating on the air... it grew slowly louder and table by table everyone stopped to listen and work out where the music was coming from. Then someone looked up and everyone followed suit. There was a huge, psychedelic rug descending slowly from the sky.

'Dumbledore must've pulled a few strings to get that in here!' exclaimed Hermione. It was at that moment that Harry realised where they were and thought he'd have to tell Hermione as soon as possible once the rug had landed. The rug, however, did not land. It hovered. It came to rest above the teachers' table and the musicians on it smiled and waved at their captive audience. It was the latest popular wizard rock group, The Grinning Spoons. Their audience clapped and cheered then sat back to wait and see what would happen next.

The floating candles suddenly took on all the hues of the rainbow so that coloured light was thrown around the Ballroom in a random display.

The Grinning Spoons left behind the soft notes played for their entrance and launched into their signature heavy rock. The dance floor was quickly filled with dancing witches and wizards, many quickly discarding their robes, jackets and ties. The teachers' table seemed untouched by the noise and they looked as though they were holding a normal conversation. Harry surmised there was no doubt some kind of silencing charm around them. Borrowing Ron's expression he smiled and thought, "Bloody brilliant!"

Then his attention immediately returned to Hermione who was dancing very closely despite the fact that the huge dance floor afforded plenty of room for all. Harry, too busy with his own feelings, was totally unaware of the effect he was having on Hermione. Hermione was also not thinking about her effect on Harry as she was too busy being aware of Harry - in his black pants, with the top two undone buttons on his white shirt which made her want to undo more; the muscular forearms exposed by the rolled up sleeves and those incredible green eyes boring into hers.

After a good twenty minutes of fabulous rock, the band switched to a slower, softer song, the melody inviting couples to get close, very close, and move slowly...

With Hermione's arms around his neck and his around her waist, her body moulded to his, Harry whispered into her ear, 'Do you know where we are?'

Hermione turned her head so that she could kiss Harry. 'Where are we?' she asked him as she pulled away, her tone implying that she really didn't give a damn as long as Harry was holding her, and kissing her.

Harry smiled indulgently. For some reason that he wasn't going to bother about right now, he felt somehow powerful and supremely masculine, full of confidence. Probably all Hermione's fault, he laughed to himself. 'It's the Quidditch pitch,' he told her.

'What?' said Hermione, throwing back her head and looking up at Harry.

'This, the Ballroom - it's the Quidditch pitch. Look at the shape. And the size. And the sky above it. Dumbledore and the other teachers must have done some truly amazing magic to get it to look like this. It's the perfect setting. Not too far away - big - yet close.'

'Just like you,' she whispered.

'Jesus, Hermione,' he groaned quietly into her ear, 'do you know what you're doing to me?' he asked in an anguished voice.

'Oh yes! Precisely the same thing you're doing to me,' came the reply.

He looked down at her. 'Why don't we separate, circulate and say thank you and good night and so on and so forth and then meet over by the Antechamber doors in about half an hour?'

'See you there,' said Hermione with a look that compelled him to lean down and kiss her once more...

As they passed through the throng in opposite directions they smiled and waved, chatted and laughed. Hermione felt as though she'd seen every Gryffindor in the place and she probably had because as she got to the outer edge of the crowd, she found herself standing momentarily alone. Until Draco Malfoy appeared at her side.

'Ms Granger, good evening.'

Hermione looked up, barely able to believe Malfoy had actually been civil.

'What do you want?' she asked abruptly.

Malfoy seemed to radiate some sort of aura which Hermione found unpleasant and disturbing.

'Momentary civility would be greatly appreciated.'

Hermione was taken aback. There was no sarcasm in his voice - it held only a tone of neutral politeness.

'You may find it hard to believe, but I would like to thank you.' Malfoy said.

Hermione had to suppress a very strong urge to laugh in his face. 'What for?' she managed, using the same neutral tone as he had.

'That night, you remember? In the Potions classroom?'

How could she forget?

* * * * * * * * *

She'd stood outside the classroom, frozen in shock. She'd heard Malfoy practically pleading with someone to reconsider something. Then she'd heard Ginny's voice, carrying clearly. 'Draco, if we are to be together it can only be like this - hidden, in secret - always being careful not to let anyone see what we mean to each other and I don't think I can live like that!' Malfoy had replied by telling Ginny he would find a way, some how, for them to be together...

Hermione heard Ginny say that she had to go - that it would be suspicious if she was missing for too long - and Hermione had quickly moved away from the door, flattening herself against the wall in the shadows, praying she wouldn't be seen. Ginny had left without seeing her because she'd come out of the room and turned immediately to go in the opposite direction. Before she could make any attempt at getting away, however, Malfoy had come out of the room, turning straight towards her, immediately freezing when he saw her standing there, a look of horror and disbelief on her face.

'What the hell are you doing here, Mudblood?' he'd demanded harshly, his fists clenched by his side, his voice angry.

Hermione felt her anger clear her mind. 'I actually came to retrieve something I left here during today's class. Believe me, if I knew I was going to intrude on your pathetic little tryst I'd never have come anywhere near the place!'

Malfoy dropped his head, rubbing his forehead with his hand as though he felt pain. He looked up at her, frowning slightly, a speculative look in his eyes. His demeanour suddenly seemed to change as he gave her a half smile.

'Sorry, Granger. You just caught me off-guard.'

Hermione just gaped at him. She thought she heard Malfoy apologise, but surely that wasn't possible, was it?

'Listen, Granger, I've got an idea. I've been thinking about the Ball and who I'm going to take. I don't want to ask any of the girls in my house because they seem to think it constitutes some sort of long term commitment. What if you come to the Ball with me - no, wait!' he said, holding up his hand as though to say "stop" on seeing the look of incredulity on Hermione's face, 'it would only be for appearances although I imagine we'd be the talk of the night - it would create quite a sensation!'

Hermione was speechless. All emotion had fled except pure astonishment. She could think of nothing to say.

'Well?' he raised an eyebrow, looking down at her with those pale, bloodless eyes.

Hermione shook her head. 'You are joking, of course,' she managed.

'Actually, Granger, no. His eyes raked her from head to foot and back again. 'You know, you're quite presentable these days... for a Mudblood.'

Hermione was stung into speech. 'And why aren't you taking your girlfriend? What's wrong with Ginny? Doesn't she want to be seen with you, Malfoy?' Hermione couldn't help herself. She smirked at him, even as she groaned inwardly. Dammit! Don't sink to his level!

Hermione had trouble believing her eyes. Malfoy actually slumped! If she didn't know better, she'd say he looked downright dejected! Holy shit!

'I did ask her, but she said she'd have to think about it.' His voice was low and quiet and - was she dreaming? - surely that couldn't be hurt in his voice!

He raised his pale eyes, looking directly into Hermione's eyes. 'Forget I said anything. I had a crazy notion that you could ask Potter to take Ginny so she wouldn't miss out or some such thing, then you could come with me but once we're there, we could just sort of swap partners. There wouldn't be as many repercussions if you came with me, rather than Ginny. I thought something like this might convince her to come... but it's madness, really.'

'You're right about that. You are mad. You're completely crazy.'

Malfoy sighed, 'You're probably right.'

'You're that desperate to get her there?' Hermione had asked in total disbelief.

Malfoy simply looked at her. 'Forget it. Do me a favour, and forget we even had this conversation.'

'No one would believe me if I told them, anyway!' exclaimed Hermione still reeling from the shock of being asked to the Ball, for whatever reasons, by Draco Malfoy!

* * * * * * * * *

'I remember,' Hermione told him. 'What about it?'

'What I want to thank you for is not saying anything, to anyone, about it.'

'I said I wouldn't tell anyone and I didn't. End of story.' Hermione cringed inside. She just couldn't bring herself to say, "You're welcome" or "Anytime!" to Draco Malfoy. He gave her a half smile and moved away. She felt a sense of unreality. She'd have no trouble keeping all this to herself because she didn't feel as though it had really happened. Who would?

As she finally walked away, Hermione very quickly found herself next to the tall doors that lead to the Antechamber. And Harry was there, waiting for her.

'Great timing!' he said as he reached out to put his hands on her waist, pulling her to him. She was all he'd thought about for the last half hour. 'Jesus, Hermione, you look amazing!' he told her.

Hermione smiled at him but then, no doubt due to the encounter she'd just had with Malfoy, she felt the need to ask Harry something. She wrapped her arms around his neck so that she could whisper in his ear, making sure no one else could hear her. 'Harry, you know that whole thing with Ginny and... well, you know! You don't feel guilty not telling Ron about it?' As she drew back to look at him, Harry frowned. 'Well, I guess it's because I know what it'd do to Ron - and what Malfoy would do to Ron when Ron went after him, which he would!' Harry grinned ruefully at Hermione. 'I think if Ginny hadn't called it all off things would've been different but now it's as though nothing truly happened. And I don't think I could bear to be the one to tell Ron something that would hurt him so much.'

Hermione nodded. He'd put into words almost exactly how she felt for not telling him all the details of that night outside the Potions classroom.

'Speaking of telling people things,' continued Harry, 'who the hell was it that asked you to the Ball first?'

Hermione laughed, shaking off the strangeness she'd felt brought on by her encounter with Malfoy.

'Oh, if you must know! It was Draco Malfoy!' There! She'd told him! And she knew he wouldn't believe her...

Harry through back his head and laughed. 'Very funny Hermione! Draco Malfoy knows I'd hex him six ways to hell if he so much as laid a finger on you!'

Hermione shrugged, still smiling.

'By the way, Mr Potter, you look really... um...'

'Really what?' asked Harry, forgetting about everything but Hermione.

Hermione closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Sweet Merlin, Harry, you look so amazing and gorgeous and sexy and I can't wait to rip that adorable tux off you and there's no way I'm saying all of that to you here in public!

Her eyes said it all though, and as she slowly opened them and looked at Harry he pulled her closer and dropped his head to kiss her. Hermione's arms wound around his neck, holding him there.

'Oi! What is it with you two and kissing in public? Jeez!'

Harry and Hermione parted, laughing, having recognised Ron's voice.

'Impeccable timing, as usual, Ron,' said Harry.

'For most things,' said Luna with a smile; she was standing next to Ron, their hands clasped.

Ron smiled down at Luna.

'Well, we're leaving,' he said, 'what about you two?'

'Doing the same,' said Harry, putting his jacket back on and throwing his robes over his arm. 'Let's go before the rush starts.'

So the four of them entered the Antechamber together, pulling their wands out and saying, "Accio Invitation!" and each of their invitations flew out of the cauldrons towards them. As soon as they took hold of them, they were instantly transported back to the Great Hall. The house tables had disappeared and except for a few scattered couples, the Hall was empty, only the roaring fire places giving any life to the room.

Ron took Luna's hand and started walking out, 'Off to the Astronomy Tower!' he called as he and Luna both waved to Harry and Hermione.

Harry and Hermione turned at the same time to face each other.

'Hermione-'

'Harry-'

They spoke at the same time and laughed at themselves.

Hermione put a finger to her lips and one to Harry's, 'Ssshh.'

'Now, listen, Harry. My surprise is where we're going next... I have to admit I was teasing you a little that day!' and taking his hand, she led him out of the Hall and along the opposite corridor to Classroom 11. Harry felt distinctly puzzled until Hermione opened the door and they walked into the Divination classroom.

As they stood inside the door, hands clasped, Harry took in the sight of the forest clearing he'd become familiar with over the last couple of years; the ceiling was moonlit with stars twinkling softly. In the centre of the clearing was a large, white, soft looking rug with a couple of plump pillows and a picnic basket that Harry would've bet his life on had been packed by Dobby.

Harry looked at Hermione. 'Firenze?' was all he said.

'Staying with Hagrid,' replied Hermione. 'They're apparently working on tactics for some sort of reconciliation with Firenze's herd. I already cleared this with him.'

Harry looked suitably impressed. Hermione closed the door and put a locking charm on it.

'Come on,' she said, pulling Harry towards the rug.

Once they were standing at the edge of the rug. Hermione kicked off her shoes; Harry had already dropped his robes and jacket beside the rug and after seeing Hermione, he also kicked off his shoes and removed his socks, thinking how good the soft grass felt beneath his feet. Then he pulled her to him and kissed her, his tongue sweeping into her mouth. Hermione pressed herself against him as hard as she could, enjoying the feel of his arousal pressing into her stomach and instinctively rolling her hips against him, causing Harry to groan.

Hermione pulled away and pushed down on Harry's shoulders, 'Lie down for me,' she whispered, so he lowered himself to the rug, although he remained propped up on one elbow, looking up at Hermione and before he had too much time to wonder what she was up to he found out.

Hermione took a couple of small steps backwards so that Harry could see her clearly and he watched as her eyes travelled down his body to the telltale bulge in his pants; he saw her unconsciously lick her lips and his eyes closed with the force of the feelings brought on by that one small act. He heard the distinct sound of a zipper opening and his eyes flew open to see Hermione pulling down the zipper situated in the side seam of her dress. Then the beautiful black dress was pooled around her feet and Harry thought he was going to pass out. Hermione was standing before him in nothing but some tiny, black, lace panties and a matching, strapless bra. Harry thought she looked breathtaking, then she lifted both her arms to undo the clasp on her gold necklace causing what was, to Harry, the most fascinating movement in her breasts.

Hermione stepped out of her discarded dress, dropping the necklace on top of it, dropping slowly to her knees, then sitting to the side, her right arm supporting her, her free hand caressing Harry's face.

Harry sat up and running his hands up her arms, over her shoulders and then into her hair, he found the pins she'd used to secure her hair and slowly drew them out, her hair cascading around her shoulders. Hermione reached up and removed Harry's glasses, carefully tossing them to lie on the dress, Harry doing the same with her hair pins; then cupping his hand around her neck, he pulled Hermione towards him and kissed her with potent urgency, his tongue immediately invading her mouth. He pressed his body against hers so that she lay down, his lips not leaving hers, his free hand running slowly down her body, passing over her breast, down the smooth, flat expanse of her stomach, coming to rest on that black, lacy triangle and pressing gently. This made Hermione automatically arch her back so that she was pressed more firmly against Harry's hand at the same time groaning wantonly into Harry's mouth. Harry knew then that not ripping both their clothes off in that instant and plunging himself into Hermione was going to be the hardest thing he'd ever done.

His voice hoarse with pure lust, he whispered against her lips, 'Hermione, I can't last much longer here - and there's something I want to do, but I need you to take the rest of your clothes off.'

Hermione was only too happy to do as he asked - she'd never imagined it was possible to feel so much downright lust for someone - her whole body felt on fire. After she'd wiggled out of her panties and expertly undone her bra in one movement as a only a woman can do, she lay back down, suddenly feeling a tinge of shyness as Harry's eyes raked over her naked body. He was breathing heavily as he brought his eyes back to hers, 'You look bloody amazing - perfect - just incredible!' he rasped out, his free hand cupping her face as he bent down to kiss her again with a passion that was driving Hermione crazy. She ran her hand down the firm length of Harry's body until she encountered his erection, then rubbed her hand up and down over it, thinking of finally having that hardness thrust into her, groaning at the thought. Her actions were causing Harry to pull away from the kiss - what she was doing was robbing him of all sense - he was so close to coming that it was agonising for him to take Hermione's wrist and pull her hand away but he had to do it.

'Don't you like that?' said Hermione in a throaty whisper, smiling seductively at Harry, knowing full well the effect it was having on him; she was finding that she loved driving Harry crazy, bringing him to the brink of losing control - it was a definite turn-on!

'Oh, hell yes!' he said with feeling, 'but another couple of seconds Hermione and I would've lost it and first I want to do this for you...' his voice trailed off and Hermione involuntarily arched her back as Harry's hand ran up the outside of her thigh then across to the small triangle of curls, delving gently, moving his finger slowly until he felt it - that swollen little nub that when he gently rubbed it with his thumb caused Hermione to cry out and Harry discovered that seeing Hermione like this - because of him - was in danger of making him totally lose it again. Keeping the pressure on, Harry slowly inserted a finger into Hermione, then a second one. He watched her face as he did so and was rewarded with a shuddering sigh and a soft, husky, 'Oh, my God Harry - that feels unbelievable!' Hermione had one arm around Harry's shoulders and her free hand sliding into his hair to pull him down to her - 'Faster Harry!' she whispered before she kissed him, thrusting her tongue into his mouth. Harry did as she asked and suddenly Hermione was no longer kissing him, she'd thrown her head back, arching her body as her orgasm tore through her, wave after wave of ecstasy washing over her. As it subsided and her breathing and pulse began their return to normal, she smiled at Harry, her eyes shining.

'That was totally incredible,' she told him softly.

'I'm glad,' he told her, then bent to kiss her, starting slowly, taking his time before he gently ran his tongue across her lips and then slowly sweeping it into her mouth, loving the taste and feel of her. Then he slowly drew his mouth away and began kissing her neck, down and across her soft shoulder, then down again, now using his tongue which he ran lightly up the rise of her breast to the erect nipple which he first carefully nipped with his teeth before pulling it into his mouth and sucking - Hermione giving little gasps as each kiss and lick caused delicious sensations to shoot throughout her body.

Hermione once again slid her hand into Harry's hair to gently pull his head up; her eyes widened and she drew her breath in sharply when their eyes met and she saw the depth of his lust for in his. 'Harry, please, I want you inside me, please!'

Harry gently laid her down and then stood up, pulling out his shirt and undoing the buttons, his eyes not leaving Hermione who lay there and looked at him, thinking how incredibly hot it made her feel to be lying there, watching him do this... thinking about what was going to happen very soon... she stretched her arms above her head, feeling incredibly sexy and wanton as Harry pulled off his shirt and tossed it aside before undoing his pants and kicking them off to stand there, down to a pair of black briefs . Hermione felt her heart rate increase dramatically, her breathing become fast and shallow, their eyes locked and Harry bent down to remove his briefs. Hermione had to look so she dropped her eyes which immediately widened as they reached Harry's straining erection. As Harry knelt down beside her, she raised her eyes to his once more and to his consternation, he once again saw a flicker of fear in their brown depths. He lay down beside her, resting on his elbow, his free hand framing her face. 'Hermione, what's wrong?' he asked, his voice low.

She closed her eyes, then opened them slowly before answering, 'I know it's probably a little late for this, but... well -' her voice dropped to the merest whisper, 'are you sure something that big can fit inside me?'

Harry gave her a tender smile, leaning down to kiss her. 'You were made for me Hermione - we were made for each other. There's nothing to worry about.' Hermione smiled at him, reassured, and then he felt her hand once again travelling down his body and his head snapped back, his breath escaping in a hiss when he felt her fingers curl around his length.

'You feel amazing, Harry. It's so hard and yet the skin is so soft all at the same time.' Then her hand travelled down further, her fingers spreading over his balls and a soft, "Oh!' escaping her lips.

Harry groaned loudly and rolled onto Hermione, his weight pushing her legs apart to accommodate him. He kept his weight on his forearms, his hands tangled in the hair on each side of Hermione's head. Hermione put her arms around Harry's waist, bending her knees and crossing her ankles on top of Harry's legs. They looked at each other; they were both well aware of the theory of what they were about to do but the reality was very different because the reality was so full of feelings and sensations and desire and needs...

'Harry,' Hermione whispered, 'make love to me. I want to watch you come this time.'

Harry groaned again at her words, then dropped his head to kiss her; the feel of her naked body beneath him and her hands running down his back and over his butt driving him to the next step. He moved until he could feel the soft, warm, wetness he was craving, then pushing... Hermione gasped and Harry stopped. He was going to do this as slowly as possible if it killed him and he thought it might. God, she felt unbelievable! He lifted his head to look at her as he pushed a little more. Oh, Christ! She was so tight!

Another push. Another gasp. Then Hermione tilted her hips up and Harry went deeper again. He saw her bite her lip, her eyes closing at the same time as he felt himself come up against her internal barrier. He didn't move until she opened her eyes and seeing the question in his eyes, she whispered, 'Now!' and he covered her mouth with his as he made the final thrust. He felt her stiffen, her nails digging into his back as she convulsively clutched him. He continued to kiss her until he felt the first signs of relaxation in her body and only then did he take his mouth from hers. She had tears in her eyes but her mouth was curved in a small smile. He kept perfectly still. 'Are you all right?' he asked.

'Oh, yes - and I think it's starting to feel, um,' Hermione made a slight movement with her hips that made Harry cry out hoarsely, 'nice. In fact, better than nice...' And it was. Hermione was amazed by the fact that the initial shock of pain had passed so quickly and the feel of Harry inside her was even better than she'd ever imagined. She smiled to herself. Now she really had some great material for those DLTs!

But right now she wanted to see Harry come, to feel that incredible ecstasy she'd felt.

She brought her legs further up Harry's body, ankles locked, watching his face as she did so. Harry's eyes were closed and his teeth were clenched with the effort of not thrusting; and when Hermione moved her legs, taking him even deeper he cried out her name as though in anguish.

She took his face in her hands and spoke softly against his lips, 'Harry, I want you to move, I want to feel you, now - I want you to come for me.' Using her legs, she pulled him hard against her until he was buried in her to the hilt and then no longer able to help himself, Harry started pumping, faster and faster, He'd been so close for so long, that it took no time at all for him to finally explode in ecstasy, crying out Hermione's name. Hermione felt exultant, watching him, feeling the heat of his release inside her, seeing him enjoying that same incredible rapture he'd given her.

Harry collapsed, barely able to hold himself off her. Hermione brushed his hair out of his eyes, kissing every part of his face she could reach. When he could finally speak, he smiled down at her, his voice full of tenderness, 'Hermione, I will never forget this night as long as I live.' He kissed her softly on the lips. 'And I love you more than you'll ever know.'

'Oh, Harry! You know I feel the same... I love you so very much...' she replied, kissing him back.

Harry rolled slowly onto his back, holding Hermione against him as he moved so that she ended up on top of him with his arms wrapped around her. 'That's better,' he told her, 'you're much lighter than me.'

Hermione sighed as she rested her head on Harry's chest, listening to the steady sound of his heartbeat.

They were both starting to feel rather sleepy so Hermione rolled down to snuggle up next to Harry, her head resting on his chest as he pulled the blanket over to cover them. Harry kissed the top of Hermione's head. 'Good night, my love,' he whispered and she smiled, already thinking about waking up the next morning, next to Harry, both of them naked...

* * * * * * * * *

In the Headmaster's office, Dumbledore was enjoying a last cup of tea before retiring. He had before him on his desk a map that somewhat resembled the Marauders' Map in Harry's possession, although this one was far more intricate and detailed. He liked to make sure, after each Graduation Ball, that the students in his care were all safe. This year had presented no problems although he did feel a deep concern when he saw that Draco Malfoy and Ginny Weasley were to be seen together just inside the Forbidden Forest. He'd have to keep an eye on that situation.

A warm, satisfied smile broke out on his face as he looked once again at the two names showing in the Divination Classroom: Harry Potter and Hermione Granger. As it should be.

FINIS