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Chapter Text

The fire and moonlight was the only thing that still shined as Hermione walked up to the dorms. Ron, who was now left alone, sat on one of the couches, unable to stop his mind from wandering to the one person he shouldn’t be thinking of. Harry Potter. Who was currently with Cho Chang who Ron had taken a disliking toward.

He didn’t want to think about what they could be doing because thinking about it meant that he cared. And Ron didn’t care. Or at least he knew he shouldn’t. Five years of knowing Harry, and up until last year Ron wasn’t having an internal crisis over his best friend. A crisis he refused to deal with.

The portrait door swung open, dragging Ron’s eyes toward it, and in stepped Harry, dark hair more tousled than usual, cheeks flushed, and a smile that would put the sun to shame. 

“What happened?” Ron asked, barely listening for the answer he already knew. Harry sat down in front of the fireplace instead of next to Ron. The ginger’s heart slightly plummeted without his permission. 

Stop caring , he told himself. It wasn’t a big deal. Then why did it feel like it?

“We, uh, we kissed,” Harry replied, his smile never faltering. 

“How was it?” Ron leaned forward, pretending to be intrigued.

“It was sort of… wet?” Ron frowned at Harry’s answer. “Well, she was crying.”

“That bad at it, are you?” he teased. 

“Oh, shove off. Who are you to judge?” Harry teased back. “You’ve never kissed a girl!”

“I know not to make them cry!” He exclaimed and Harry scoffed. “So what’s going to happen now? I mean are you dating?”

“We’ve only kissed, Ron!”

“I know, but,” he trailed off for a brief moment, trying to keep his thoughts straight. “What if that’s all it was? A kiss?” 

“What do you mean?”

“Nothing! She just lost Cedric and, I don’t know, maybe she’s trying to replace him.”

“What?” Ron watched the smile drop from his friends’ face. “You don't think she could like someone like me?”

“That’s not what I said!”

“But it’s what you’re implying!”

“Oh fuck off, Harry, you know that’s not what I meant!”

“Whatever, Ron.” Harry got to his feet and stormed off to their dormitory, leaving Ron more ticked off than he already was.

Now, pulling away from the hug with Harry, he finally understood the jealousy that stemmed from his heart in his fifth year. He now knew why he had hated Cho, who had done nothing than be nice to him. He should have known. It was so obvious, it had been hiding in plain sight. But Ron had been blinded by denial of having such feelings that it took him until a few weeks to realize he was in love with his best friend. And it was not Hermione that he made out to believe.

Ginny was next to hug Harry and a hint of jealousy flickered in Ron. Not only has Ginny fancied Harry since she first heard his name, but she was a girl. How was he supposed to compete with that?

“It’s so good to see you, Harry!” Ron’s mum exclaimed. “I’m afraid you and Ron will be having to share a room and a bed this time around. I hope that’s alright with you, dears.” 

“I don’t mind at all.” Harry smiled. “Ron?”

“Um, yeah, that’s fine.” He spoke, trying to keep his voice even. How was he going to get through this? He already knew he was going to spend the rest of the summer with Harry, but sharing a bed with him was too much. Harry was going to find out and Ron won’t be able to live with himself if he did. 

After talking, Hermione had left Ron’s room, the two boys got ready for bed and moved under the covers, their arms awkwardly brushing against each other as they lay there. Ron could hear Harry’s ragged breathing and wondered if his friend could hear how his heart raced every second. 

“Are you awake?” Ron asked, filling the silence. It was a stupid question, but he was desperate for conversation. 

“I don’t fall asleep as quickly as you do, Ron.”

Ron snorted quietly, slightly amused. 

“Don’t be a dick, Harry.”

“You’re one to talk.”

“Oi! Don’t be rude .”

“Well, then, don’t be a dick.” Without even looking, Ron knew his friend wore a smirk. Always been quite the cocky bloke. 

“Alright. Alright.” Ron slightly shifted, causing his leg to bump into Harry who didn’t seem to notice at all. If only he knew the panic it brought inside him. “Does Ginny know you’re an arsehole?”

There was a long pause. 

“Why would Ginny care if I was or not?” 

“I just figured– I mean– since you’ve ditched Cho, I figured you’d go after my litter sister. Which I suppose if anyone had to date her– you’re a proper bloke.”
“Ron, what are you talking about?” 

“I mean you like her, right? You like Ginny.” The last part came out more like a statement than a question.

“What are you on about? Why would you think that?” Harry asks, sounding almost offended. 

“Well what’s wrong with thinking that? Why are you acting like fancying Ginny is a bad thing?” He yelled in a whisper, trying not to wake the rest of the Burrow.

“I’m not! Ginny is lovely but I don’t fancy her . I like someone else, Ron!”

“You like–” Ron stopped himself, taking in the information. Harry didn’t like Ginny. Who could it possibly be then? Parvati Patil? Harry did take her to the Yule Ball. Or was it a Slytherin and that’s why he hasn’t told either him or Hermione? Or was it… “Is it Hermione?”

“Merlin, no! She’s like a sister to me.”

“Then who?” Ron lightly pressed. But when Harry didn’t answer, Ron knew he would have to press a little harder. “Which girl gets The Chosen One?”

“It’s no one, just let it go.” He turned his back toward him which Ron didn’t appreciate. Reaching forward,  Ron yanked Harry’s shoulder hard enough so Harry was now facing him.

Ron’s breath hitched as he got a perfect view of Harry’s full face. His hair fell over his scar but Ron had memorized it to the point where he knew where each line connected to another. His pupils were blown, emerald green iris shimmering from the candle that was lighting up the room. But the thing Ron couldn’t keep his eyes off were his lips, slightly parted due to the shock of their proximity. 

“Luna,” Harry whispered. “I fancy Luna.” 

“Oh.” Ron was an idiot for thinking it was about to lead to something more. Although he had hoped. He hoped Harry would pull him down by the collar of his shirt and kiss him senselessly. But he was only a fool. “For, uh, how long?”

“You know, since last year.”

“Oh,” Ron repeated. But he knew he had to say more. “That’s um-lovely. She’s lovely.”

“Er– yeah… she’s great. Very smart and… has nice skin.”

“Yeah. Nice skin.” He replied shortly before turning his back to Harry. “You might as well tell her. She probably likes you back.”

“... You think so?”

“Sure.” He swallowed any sentence of a real compliment. “I mean, you’re the Chosen One. Who wouldn’t like you?”

Chapter Text

After the painful truth (Harry liking Luna) Ron, for the first time ever, struggled to fall asleep. He’s not sure what hurt more. Knowing Harry will never see Ron as anything more than his best friend or that he’s into Luna Lovegood. Both might just have to share first place.

When he woke the next morning, he felt a weight on his chest. He assumed it was Crookshanks so without opening his eyes, he went to move him but froze completely. His hand was not placed on the coarse fur that belonged to Hermione’s cat. No, it was on top of another hand.

Harry’s hand. 

He shook his head. This was cruel. Completely and utterly cruel. The world was teasing him and it wasn’t funny. Before Ron could do anything, Harry shifted closer to him, his leg intertwining with Ron’s while his hand crept to his side. 

A broken, choked sob escaped from the back of Ron’s throat. This was all he wanted. A real relationship with Harry is where they wake up in each other’s arms. But this was completely wrong. Without thought, Ron jumped to his feet, shoving his blanket off along with Harry.

“Huh?” He could hear Harry stir awake. “Ron?”

But Ron couldn’t figure out how to breathe properly. Instead of listening to Harry search for his glasses while calling his name, Ron was out the door where he ran into Hermione. 

“Ron!” She smiled before it quickly dropped. “Ron, are you alright?”

“I’m fine– I’m–”

“Ron?”

Why did people want to talk to me so early in the morning? he screamed in his head. 

“What happened? You ran as if I scared you.” said Harry. Ron got a good look at him. He’s seen Harry in the mornings almost every day for the past six years but right now he was properly fit, his hair tousled somehow perfectly and shirt slightly raised as he stretched exposing his beautiful olive skin and waistline. 

Merlin, help me. 

“No.” He refused to make eye contact with him. Not after having the brunette’s hand in his. “No, I just had to take a piss.”

Harry snorted. 

“But–”

“ Yes , that’s what I was about to go do, Hermione.” He shoots her a warning look before moving around her to the actual bathroom.   

He slammed the door shut and let out a groan.

“No slamming doors, Ron!” His mother shouted from downstairs. 

“Alright!” He shouted back before leaning over the sink. A single tear streamed down his cheek. Fucking pathetic. His heart ached and his body slightly twitched. After finally coming to terms with, not just liking Harry, but being in love with him, he never thought it would be this hard to be around him. He had the whole summer without him and it was fine. But now that he’s here, Ron couldn’t seem to act straight. It was torture. 

As the morning turned to the afternoon, Harry seemed to want to be around Ron more often than usual. It bothered Ron to an extreme. Maybe almost losing Sirius made Harry more attached to his loved ones. He would appreciate the closeness if it wasn’t for the fact that Ron seemed to act like an idiot every moment they spoke to each other. 

“Ron, you– uh– on your cheek–” Harry pointed to where a bunch of crumbs stuck on the ginger’s cheek. Immediately, Ron began choking on his food, like an idiot, to the point where Ginny had to thump him on the back. 

Ron grimaced at the memory as he, Harry, Hermione, and Ginny entered his brother's joke shop. Hopefully, this would be a good distraction. 

He ducked to the side, avoiding some fireworks coming his way. He parted ways with Harry and the others finally getting some space for himself.

 It's not the first time in the store, and certainly not the last, but he still takes his time browsing the items. He remembered the first time he walked into the shop with his mum. It was amazing seeing the store packed— similar to how it was today. He wasn’t allowed to get anything because his mother didn’t want any joke items at home. Perhaps now he can look around properly and get a few things. 

As he roamed about the store, picking up and setting down various items, he noticed a girl staring at him wherever he went. Odd. That never happens.

He came to a halt in front of the quill section, picking up a black one. He had been needing a new one. And why not a self-writing one at that? What mum doesn’t know won’t hurt her. 

“Fred, how much for this?” Ron asked, after catching up to the twins. Turning around in sync they both took a look at the quill in his hands before answering. 

“Five galleons.” They replied, once again in sync. 

“And for me?” 

“Five galleons.”

“But I’m your brother.”

 They shared a look. “Ten galleons.” Walking off quickly, giving Ron no time to protest. 

“Fucking arseholes for brothers.” He muttered under his breath before walking in the direction he last saw the others. He found Harry and Hermione close to the exit, chatting. 

“You’re not getting the quill?” Hermione asked, motioning towards his empty hands. 

“No. Fred and George were being real pricks about the price. Anyways, let’s go.” 

When they left the shop, the eerie atmosphere made him shiver. This was not the Diagon Alley Ron had gotten to love over the years. No. This was some twisted version of it. The once lively streets now stood bare with nothing but the moonlight to illuminate it. Windows boarded up and the ones that weren't allowed them to look inside and see the mess they’d become. Layers of dust so thick you could almost see them through the windows.  

“Oh no,” Hermione said sadly. “Everyone got their wands from Ollivanders…”

Following Hermione, Ron opened the door to the old wand shop and stepped inside. He frowned at the sight of empty boxes all over the floor and broken pieces of wood. As his friends roamed around, a git with bright blonde hair in a black suit stood outside with his mother. 

“Harry?” Ron called. He waited for him to approach before continuing. “Is it just me or do Draco and mummy look like two people who don’t want to be followed?”

But if Ron could go back in time, he wouldn’t have told Harry about Malfoy going to Knockturn Alley. Because for the rest of the night, Harry was chattering about what the Slytherin was doing in Borgin and Burkes.

Chapter Text

Fun fact of the day, the sound of Malfoy’s name only got more invigorating the more times it was said out loud. 

As they sat in the compartment, Ron stared at Harry as he spoke. He wasn’t paying attention. Not anymore, but Hermione was, which seemed to matter to Harry greatly. 

“Don’t you understand? He’s become one of them!” Harry stated. 

“Oh, honestly, Harry. That’s ludacris.”

“What are you two on about?” Ron finally asked because Harry was looking more and more irritated by the minute. 

“Harry is under the impression that Draco Malfoy is now a Death Eater.”

Ron scoffed with amusement. 

“Malfoy? A Death Eater? What would You-Know-Who want with a sod like him?”

“His father is a Death Eater.”

“So?”

Harry shook his head. 

“I need some air.” The brunette grabbed something from the top rack before leaving the compartment, dramatically slamming the door shut. Ron huffed and sat in Harry’s spot, now across from Hermione. 

“Ron?” Hermione set down The Daily Prophet next to her. 

“Yeah?” 

“I saw a girl looking at you at the twins shop… Lavender Brown?”

“Oh– yeah.” He shrugged. “I thought that was a bit odd.”

“She probably fancies you.” She stated nonchalantly as if it was nothing out of the ordinary. Well, it was very much out of the ordinary. In Ron’s experiences girls never really paid attention to him; they were too busy staring at Harry. He understood it now of course, but back then it hurt.

“She probably thought I was someone else,” he muttered.

“Oh, Ron, any girl or boy would be lucky to have you.” 

“Any–” His breath caught in his throat. Did she just say boy? 

“Ron, I know,” she said gently, leaning forward and placing a hand over his. Why is she so calm? Shouldn’t she find me gross? “And it doesn't matter to me who you love?” 

“…Why doesn’t it matter?”

“Why would it?” She frowned. “Did you really think I’d be treating you differently depending on your preference in people?”

“Um… yeah?”

Hermione chuckled softly. 

“You’re incredibly thick sometimes, Ronald.” 

Having Hermione know he was into blokes felt like a relief. Knowing Hermione didn’t think any different about him meant she was safe. She was his only option to tell the hidden truth about Harry.  Or he could just keep it to himself because he was pretty sure that if he did that he would go insane. Bloody hell.

They had arrived at the train station, but Harry still hadn't returned. Ron was a bit worried. But he couldn't really show it, Hermione would probably figure it out. If she hadn’t already

“Where’s Harry?” Hermione asked as they stepped out of their compartment. At least he wasn’t the only one worried. 

“He’s probably already on the platform. Come on.” He spoke trying to convince himself as much as Hermione. 

They were wrong, he wasn't on the platform or anywhere near it. He pushed his hands in his pockets to hide that they were shaking. Come on Ron, you got this. They waited until it was time for the last carriage to leave before giving up, deciding that he might have already left. Leaving the topic alone for the rest of the ride. 

Ron had begun to question the need for the older students to attend the sorting ceremony. It was pointless to listen to each newcomer be called and then listen to the Sorting Hat sing its song. School made so much more sense when he was younger. 

When it was over, he grabbed a large portion of pudding and began to eat. What else was there to do? If he started thinking about the fact that Harry was still missing he would freak out, and freaking out was the last thing he wanted to do in the Great Hall. Hermione had barely touched her food, she just sat there scowling at him. 

“Don't worry he’ll be here in a minute.” He talked with his mouth full. She looked even more annoyed now. Was I not supposed to say that? 

“Will you stop eating?!” She whined, lifting her book from the table, and started to hit him rather hard with it. But he couldn't really care about that right then. 

Because at that moment the familiar boy with messy dark locks strutted into the great hall with Luna following shortly behind– Luna?  

Of course. Harry likes Luna, Ron should have known he was with her. The relief of seeing him vanished and was now filled with a new feeling he didn't quite have a name for. Whatever it was, it didn't feel pleasant. 

“-best friend is missing!” Ron heard Hermionie say, completely missing the first part of the sentence. 

“Oi! Turn around, you lunatic,” he managed to spit out. 

Now that Harry had gotten closer to the table Ron could clearly distinguish the blood that covered his upper lip and part of his hands. 

“He’s covered in blood again.” Ginny pointed out the obvious. “Why is it he’s always covered in blood?” 

Trust me Gin, I’ve wondered that a few times myself. 

“Looks like it’s his own this time.” Ron stated the feeling of worry returning as quickly as it had left.

Hermione’s “where have you been?” overlapped with Ron’s, “what happened?”

“Later.” Harry brushed them both off. “What did I miss?”

It was Hermione who filled him in because Ron couldn’t stop looking between Harry and the Ravenclaw table where Luna sat next to Anthony Goldstein. Sure, Luna was in fact pretty. Good spirited. But why couldn’t Harry fall for him? It made him so mad. It was Cho Chang all over again. But how could he hate Luna when she’s the sweetest person he knows? It was unfair. 

Dumbledore gave his speech and everyone was off to bed. Hermione and Ginny bid their goodnights to the boys before heading upstairs. 

Ron and Harry enter their dormitory where Neville, Dean, and Seamus were getting ready for bed. 

“Hiya, Ron! Harry!” Dean beamed. “How was your holiday? Spend time with each other?” Seamus snorted in the corner of the room which Ron found odd. 

“Er– yeah, a bit…” said Harry as he began undoing his tie. Ron purposefully looked away, feeling his cheeks heat up. “Good Holiday though. You?”

“Besides my mum finding out about the troubles happening in the wizarding world? It was good. You should have seen Seamus’ mum.” He smirked
“She tried keepin’ me back again!” The Irish boy shook his head. “What about your mum, Ron? Was she thinking’ the same thing?”

“You bet.” He began rummaging through his luggage, trying to find his night clothes. “Several arguments with her, Ginny and I.”

“I couldn’t imagine your Mum yelling,” said Seamus. 

“Must be nice,” Ron muttered under his breath. He goes to pull his shirt over his head when his hands come to an abrupt stop. His scars. The hideous scars he received at the Department of Mysteries. They circled up his arm like a design and, even though healed, Ron hated them. He didn’t want any of his roommates to see it either. They’d stare and Ron couldn’t handle that. 

Without saying anything, he leaves the dorm to the bathrooms. He was lucky that no one was in there, but he wasn’t lucky enough to keep people out. The moment he shut the door and walked in more, the door swung open and exposed Harry standing there. 

“What are you doing?” Ron frowned. 

“What are you doing?” He countered. 

“Changing for bed?”

“Why didn’t you change in the room?”

Ron paled, suddenly embarrassed. But it made him angry that Harry followed. Why can’t he just leave me alone?

“Why does it matter? ” he said hotly which clearly Harry hadn’t expected. 

“I just thought it was odd!” Harry said defensively. “You’ve never not change–”

“Why do you think I’m changing in the bathroom?” he asked shortly. “Care to take a brilliant guess?”

“ Ron– ”

“Leave, Harry!” But all his friend did was lean against the doorframe. 

“It’s your scars, isn’t it?” His tone was gentle but with a hint of awkwardness behind him. “You don’t want the others to see…”

Ron suddenly felt small. He wasn’t used to the vulnerability. This is why he’s loud with how he feels so the awkward one on one conversations won’t happen. But with something like this… with the insecurity of how he looks, Ron never dared express. He didn’t want people to know how insecure he was with his smile or now, Those damned scars . 

“Just drop it, Harry,” he managed to say. “I’m not talking about this.”
“I just wanted to let you know that– well– it’s fine.”

“It’s fine? ” Ron frowned. 

“I mean you have nothing to be ashamed of! Your scars aren’t ugly, Ron.” The ginger noticed the way Harry’s eyes scanned along Ron’s arms and then up to his face. He noticed the way Harry stood straighter to make him feel more confident with what he was saying. 

“They’re not ugly?” Ron whispered 

“No… they’re not.” He smiled awkwardly before clearing his throat abruptly. “I just– er– wanted to let you know…” He shrugged before turning around on his heels and shutting the door behind him. Leaving Ron even more in love with Harry than he was before. 

Chapter Text

Ron only woke up the next morning because Harry had shook him awake rather violently. The boys stayed up chatting for a good few hours, Ron and Seamus being the last ones to fall asleep. Ron, before closing the curtains, had watched Harry sleep for a few minutes. He’s aware it’s weird! And he swears he’s not a freak! But he had only wanted to make sure Harry wasn’t having a nightmare of sorts. Ron’s never told Harry this– and he never will– he used to stay up in fifth year to make sure Harry wasn’t having one.

Currently, he and Harry had a free period, so they decided to do the best thing they could do. Watch all the first years struggle to get to their classes. 

Ron remembered he and Harry running late to transfiguration during their first year. The excuse they gave Professor McGongall was a complete lie. They hadn’t been lost, they slept in late. Sometimes Ron wished he could be young and naive again. It was just much simpler. 

“Potter!” Speaking of the Professor, she beckoned Harry over. 

“This can’t be good,” the shorter boy muttered before hopping down the window seal they were standing on. Ron waited patiently and when Harry came back he wore a smile that screams ‘I’m sorry.’ 

“No,” Ron quickly said. “Whatever she said, no!”

“You don’t even know what she said!” 

“If it involves anything with you, then no. ”

“Rude!” He gripped Ron’s arm and pulled him down. The ginger let out a huff and batted Harry’s hand away. “It’s good, I promise.” Harry began walking down the hall and Ron, like an obedient dog, followed him. 

“Well?” Ron inquired. 

“We’re taking Potions!”

“Wh–what? ” Ron spluttered. “You must be joking.”

“Slughorn is taking N.E.W.T students that got Exceeds Expectations in their O.W.L’s!”

“But I don’t want to take Potions!” he whined. “There’s–” He paused, suddenly embarrassed. 

“There’s what?” Harry looked up at him with curiosity. 

“Quidditch tryouts…” he muttered but Harry heard him perfectly. 

“You’re trying out for the Quidditch team?” He beamed. “That’s brilliant, Ron!” Ron blushed a dark shade of red. Was Harry really that excited? Or was he just being kind?

Turning the corner and walking into the Potions classroom felt like choosing to be tortured, but he was already there and he couldn't leave Harry alone. Slughorn was going on about something that was going way over Ron’s head when he twisted around to face them. 

“Harry M’boy! I was beginning to worry. And I see we’ve brought someone with us.” Slughorn said, a warm smile splayed over his face, slightly dropping as his eyes found Ron. 

“Ronald Weasley, sir. But I’m dead awful at potions. A menace actually, so I probably should just be going-”

“Nonsense, we’ll sort you out. Any friend of Harry’s is a friend of mine. Right then, get your books out!” He interrupts turning back and talking to the rest of the class. Looks like any chance of getting out of potions this year just went down the drain. 

“Um, sorry, sir, but we haven’t gotten our books yet. You see-” Harry remarks and Ron was pretty sure he could see Malfoy scoff from the other side of the room. 

“Not to worry. You can get what you need from the cupboard.” Slughorn motions towards the cupboards standing in the corner. Ron gets a feeling that his reaction to their unpreparedness would have been a little different if it was anyone but Harry. 

In the cupboard lay two potions books, one looking like it had been used to beat someone to death with and the other in sparkling new condition. Looking over to the side and catching Harry’s eyes. Bloody hell, those eyes. They both threw themselves forward, reaching for the newer book. Ron is faster, so Harry’s chest presses up against his shoulder. His breath hitching in his throat as he reaches the last bit forwards to grab the book right before Harry does. Take that you handsome prick!

Harry defeatedly grabs the beaten up copy of the book and they walk over to where Hermionie is standing. 

“Now as I was saying. As you can see I have placed out cauldrons, one for each group, of a special type of potion. I thought we could start off this lesson with a little fun experiment.”

Everyone got into their usual groups of three and went to their places. 

“Now, does anyone have a guess as to what this potion might be?” Slughorn asks and Hermionie’s hand shoots up as if it were on fire. 

“Yes, Ms…” 

“Granger, sir. It's Amortentia, one of the most powerful love potions in the world. It's rumored to smell different to each person, according to what attracts them.” She answered and Slughorn nodded in agreement. “For example I smell… freshly mown grass… worn clothes and some soap. Lavender, perhaps?” Ron noticed the way Hermione recoiled slightly with tinted cheeks. 

“Alright everyone, if you care to smell, go right ahead. But keep in mind, Amortentia is a very powerful potion…” 

Ron had stopped listening and was now fixated at the potion in front of him. Was it going to smell like Harry? If he did it's not like he could tell him. Was Harry going to smell Luna? Was the next thought to infiltrate his mind and it made his heart ache. He hoped not. But it was more than likely. He pushed the thoughts out of his mind. 

“So, Hermionie, got anyone special on your mind?” Ron teased. Hermionie turned the color of a howler. 

“None of your business, Ronald.” She snapped back and Ron raised his hand as a sign of surrender. “Go smell it yourself and see if you’re so intent on telling everyone what it is that attracts you.” 

He stepped up to the cauldron with the shimmering pink liquid and tried to focus on smelling it, but it proved to be rather hard when he kept getting distracted by Harry’s cologne. If he could only move a little so Ron could actually focus. He looked up from the potion expecting to see Harry standing next to him. 

But no, he wasn't there. He was standing on the other side of the table looking at him expectantly. 

Oh no. This wasn't good. 

He already knew he was in love with him, but this felt like actual confirmation, like it's now set in stone. A stone just waiting to be shattered. 

“What do you smell?” Harry asked. 

Fuck. 

“Uh– you know– I’m not sure.” He shrugged and purposefully looked away. “I can’t really recognize it. What about you, Harry?”

“Oh– well–”

“Probably filth.” Ron’s eyes snapped to his left to find Malfoy smirking with his Slytherin friends. “We know how much Potter loves the Weasels.”

“At least Ron’s family isn’t stuck in Azkaban,” snarled Harry. Malfoy went even paler than he already was. 

“You’ll regret saying that, Potter, you will.”

“Ask me if I care, Malfoy,” Harry spat back. “What are you gonna do anyways? Owl your dad? Oh no, looks like he is a bit preoccupied at the moment.” 

Malfoy reached for his wand but it’s Blaise Zabini who stopped him. 

“Not here,” the boy murmured.

Ron watched Malfoy and his gang walk away; he couldn’t help but smirk at Harry who looked livid. 

“He’ll get what he deserves one day,” Harry growled under his breath. Another thing to add to the list of why he loved Harry so much. His protectiveness. 

Ron was glad the class was finally over. After all, he had been forced there by a certain brunette. After they were done with the Amortentia, Professor Slughorn took out a potion called Felix Felicis; they were told to brew a Draught of the Living Death and first to finish would receive the Liquid Luck. Ron failed. And so did everyone else in the class besides Harry who had brewed it perfectly.

“How’d you do it?” Hermione asked as the three of them walked out. 

“I’ll tell you guys later.” There was a smirk on Harrys’ face that had Ron slightly curious. “I have to go speak to–” 

“Hi, Ron!” A blonde girl who was with the Patil twins walked up to him. He remembered seeing her at his brother’s joke shop. Hermione said her name was Lavender Brown

“Um… hi?” He frowned with slight confusion. 

“Are you trying out for Quidditch?”

“I plan to yeah. Why? Are you too?”

She and the twins giggled. Ron looked at his friends for help, but Hermione was only smiling while Harry looked at the girl with a light snarl. Weird. 

“No, I was just curious! I’ll see you around, Ron.” Lavender scurried off with her friends, leaving Ron slightly dumbfounded. 

“That was funny, wasn’t it?” Ron turned and saw Harry staring off at Lavender with a strange look. Ron couldn’t read him. 

“She’s pretty, isn’t she, Ron?” asked Hermione. 

“I–”

“I have to go,” Harry interrupted. Without another word, he left down the hallway in rapid steps. 

Well that was weird. 

Distracted by Harrys strange behavior, Ron hadn't noticed how Hermionie had already made her way down the hall until she called out for him. 

“Come on, Ron. We have Charms soon.” 

Quidditch tryouts were now here and what started as an excuse to get out of potions turned into an actual goal. The ginger felt sick. His hand shook over his broom as he walked out to the pitch.  And if things couldn’t get worse, he ran into Luna who was on her lonesome trying to get to the  bleachers. 

“Good luck, Ron!” She beamed; Ron forced a smile. 

“Thanks, Luna.”

“I think you’ll do good.” She began walking with him, which was definitely against his will. He didn't want to dislike Luna, but now that Harry liked her it was almost impossible not to. He just needed to keep reminding himself that it's not her fault he liked her. 

Luckily she didn’t talk. She just looked around in a slight daze until they finally parted ways with a very quick goodbye. Ron scowled as he saw her wave at Harry who waved back. He walked over to the group of people who were also there for tryouts. Many of them, Ron knew, weren’t trying out for Keeper, just like Ron was, so he wasn’t entirely as stressed as he thought he would be. 

“Alright, um…” began Harry who looked almost as awkward as Ron was. “Okay, so this morning, I’m gonna be putting you all through a few drills just to assess your strengths…” But no one but Ron was paying attention. As Harry tried to get the attention of the others, the ginger got a good look at his friend. Harry had always looked good in the Quidditch uniform, but right now he looked better than ever. Though that might have just been his recent realization of his feelings for the boy.

“SHUT IT!” His sister yelled; it fell silent in less than a second. 

“Thanks. All right. Um. Now then, remember, just because you made the team last year does not guarantee you a spot this year. Is that clear?” A quiet murmur of yeses went through the group. “Good.” 

So far everything was going alright. Yes, the actual tryouts hadn't started but Ron had decided to focus on the positives. 

Coming up on his left side was Cormac McLaggen, a rather large looking guy, quite creepy as well. At least in Ron’s opinion. 

“No hard feelings, Weasley, alright?” Cormac said, making Ron turn, brows furrowed in confusion.

“Hard feelings?” He repeated. 

“I’ll be going out for keeper as well. Nothing personal.” 

“Really? Strapping guy like you? You’ve got more of a beater build, don't you think? Keeper needs to be agile, quick-” Just as Ron was about to finish his rambling, Cormac lifted his hand quickly, crushing a fly mid air with his hand. Holy hell. 

“Oh, I like my chances.” Cormac said confidently. What would anyone even see in this guy? “Say… you think you could introduce me to your friend Granger? Wouldn't mind getting on a first-name basis, know what I mean?” Patting Ron on the arm before walking off. 

Like Ron would ever help a scumbag like him near Hermione, no way. It wasn't that he liked her or anyway, but she was his friend and Ron always protected his friends. Like that day during third year in the Shrieking Shack. 

The room was cold as Ron sat there on the old torn couch, holding Scabbers in one hand and clutching his leg with the other. He’d hurt it quite badly and could barely move it. Just then Harry and Hermione came running in. 

“Ron!”

“Ron, are you okay?” Harry and Hermione's shouts overlapped, as they stepped closer to Ron. 

“The dog, where is it?” Harry asked, slightly out of breath. 

“Harry, it's a trap!” Ron shrieked, pointing behind them. “He’s the dog! He’s an Animagus!” 

They turned around to look where he was pointing, and there he was, standing in the corner was Sirius Black. He lifted Ron’s wand towards them.

“Expelliarmus!” Their wands flew out of their hands, scattering across the floor. “I thought you’d come to help your friend.” Sirius said hoarsely. “Your father would have done the same for me. Brave of you, not to run for a teacher. I’m grateful… it will make everything much easier.”

He noticed how Harry tensed, if it was one thing Ron was good at it was reading Harry’s body language. He could tell that his friend was about to explode. 

And Ron was right, because just a second later Harry jumped forward towards Sirius but not before Ron and Hermione were able to grab his arms and hold him back. 

He musters up all the strength he has left to stand up. Standing in front of his friends, swaying in his stance. 

“If you want to kill Harry, you’ll have to kill us too!” He shouted at Sirius. Feeling himself start to fall he begins to panic, then he feels a hand come up from behind, steadying him. Harry’s hand. 

Mounting his broom, Ron flew to the goal post, his feet slipping off briefly causing him to wobble. From where he was he could see Harry hovering and staring right at him. All his nerves came back. Harry had never seen Ron play Quidditch before. What if he made a complete fool of himself? And no only in front of his friend but in front of loads of people. He should never have done this. He should have stayed off the Quidditch Pitch. 

It went better than he had expected. In fact, it went amazingly. He got the post of Keeper which couldn’t have made him happier. Harry had clasped him on the back with a warm smile and Ron blushed a deep red. 

Now, sitting in the Common Room, Ron was snacking on a chocolate frog, watching Harry read his Potions book. Harry was never just reading a book for fun, so seeing him so concentrated made a new attraction stir inside Ron. 

“Ron. Ron. ” Hermione whispered sharply. She was sitting on the floor, reading the Daily Prophet. But now she was staring up at him with an eyebrow raised. “What are you doing?”

“Eating?” He frowned. 

“Not that .”

“What are you talking about?”

Hermione stared at him for a good few seconds, clearly analyzing him. Ron tried remaining still, but it was very awkward having her eyes looking right into his. 

“You know Lavender has been staring at you ever since we got back,” she informed him. Out of the corner of his eye, Ron, instead of noticing how Lavender was waving at him, noticed how Harry scoffed silently.

“You think a girl couldn’t like me, Harry?”  

“What?” Harry looked up at him with wide eyes. “That’s not what I said. I– I was just– you know– reading… do either of you know this spell? Sectumsempra? ”

“I haven’t!” Hermione said with sudden irritation. “And if you had a shred of self respect,  you’d hand that book in.”

“Not bloody likely!” Ron added. “He’s top of the class. He’s even better than you, Hermione.” He smirked a little at her glare. “Slughorn thinks he’s a genius.”

“I’d like to know whose that book was. Let’s have a look, shall we.” She stood up, reaching for the book. 

“No–” Harry hurried to his feet and backed up. “The binding is fragile…”

“The binding is fragile?” She repeated. 

Ron watched Ginny snatch the book out of Harry’s hands with a proud grin before flipping the pages. 

“Who’s the Half Blood Prince?”

“Who?” Asked Hermione. 

“That’s what it says right here. This book is property of the Half Blood Prince.” Ginny tossed the book back to Harry who sat down, not on the floor, but next to Ron. 

“You’ve got to loan me that book, Harry.”

“Not likely.” Harry smirked before continuing his reading.

Chapter Text

A few weeks go by and being with Harry was like being with Hermione. All he did was read that bloody Potions book. Ron was starting to crave nightly conversations with him but he wouldn’t get any because, not only was the brunette reading on about who knows what, he had the Marauders Map open constantly. Ron never knew it was possible to be jealous of an inanimate object, but here he was. 

They were currently getting ready for the trip to Hogsmeade, when he noticed Harry picking up the Potions book. 

“No. You’re not bringing that bloody book with us!”

“I’m not!” Ron watched Harry put the book under his pillow. “Are you ready to go yet?”

“Am I ready? Mate, I've been sitting here waiting for you for the last ten minutes.” Ron snaps a bit harshly. That book had been getting on his nerves lately. 

“Fine. Let’s just go then.” Harry walked out of the dorm without another word and Ron followed. They met Hermione near the exit of the castle before they left for Hogsmeade. Ron felt in a better mood. No Potions book. No Marauders Map. He’d finally be able to talk to Harry. 

“I can’t believe you haven’t returned that book,” said Hermione. 

Why? Why does she have to bring it up!?

“I suggest not mentioning the book in front of Ron.” Harry stuffed his hands in his pocket. “He’ll throw a fit.”

“Very funny, Harry.” Ron glared at him. “It’s not my fault I want to have a nightly conversation at night with my best mate! You practically sleep with it!”’

“I don’t sleep with it,” he defended himself. 

“Sure you don’t.”

Maybe they weren’t going to have a good time. 

Entering The Three Broomsticks, they take a seat at a rather large table for just the three of them. But Harry had insisted. Although, the moment he sat down, he got a good look at Ginny and Dean sitting a bit too close.

“What the hell? Are they– Are they dating? ” Ron gaped. 

“Dean and Ginny?” Harry looked over, along with Hermione who quickly looked away. 

“I think they’re only friends, Ron,” said Harry. 

But just as Harry looked away, Dean leaned in and began snogging his little sister. 

“WHAT THE–”

“Ron!” Hermione warned. 

“That’s my sister!” He growled. “That slick git!” He went to stand but Harry pulled him down. 

“Leave her alone, Ron.”

“That happens to be my sister!”

“So?” said Hermione. “What if she looked over here and saw you snogging Harry?” Harry, who had just taken a sip of the butterbeer Hermione ordered for them, spat it out as if it had burned his tongue. Ron, on the other hand, his eyes went extremely wide. “Would you expect her to get up and leave?”

Hermione knows he thought. Of course, she fucking knows! It’s Hermione! Fuck!

“I-It would, uh, it would make more sense if it was Harry snogging Luna,” he couldn’t help but say.

“What?” It was Hermione’s eyes that went wide this time. 

“You haven’t told her?” Ron looked over at Harry who looked equally as surprised. 

“Told her what? ”

“What you told me before school started!” He said fiercely. 

“What I– Oh– right…” Harry’s shoulders slumped as he took a sip of his drink. “I like Luna, Hermione.”

“You what? ”

“You know Luna. She’s funny, pretty and stuff…”

Ron’s heart ached at Harry’s words. He needed to move on but with who? No one could help him get over Harry, although he knew it was the only way. But he couldn’t. Not when Harry was Harry. The most protective, funny, attractive person he’s ever known. Sometimes he wished he was into Hermione because perhaps he would stand a chance. With Harry, he knew he never would. 

“That’s…” Hermione glanced over at Ron who didn’t dare look back at her. “That’s wonderful, Harry. Luna is very sweet…”

“Er– yeah.” He smiled. Ron suddenly felt sick. 

“Harry, my boy!” Slughorn approached the table. 

Harry stood up and shook their professor’s hand. 

“Hello, sir, wonderful to see you!”
“And you, and you.”

Ron watched the strange interaction between Harry and Slughorn, not even slightly envious until at the end both Harry and Hermione got invited to a gathering of people Slughorn considered talented. Ron wasn’t asked. 

“What are you playing at?” Ron asked a bit too harshly. 

“Dumbledore’s asked me to get to know him.” 

“Get to know him?”

“I don’t know. It must be important. If it wasn’t, Dumbledore wouldn’t ask.” As Harry finished his sentence, Ginny and Dean approached the trio. 

“Hi guys!” she beamed. 

“When were you going to tell me about the both of you?” Ron quickly inquired, not caring how uncomfortable Dean looked. 

“I never thought it to be your business,” she said hotly before softening her voice when she said to Hermione, “you, um, have got a bit of whipped cream on your lips, ‘Mione.”

“Oh!” Ron watched Hermione blush a dark shade of red before she wiped her lips. “Thankyou,” she rushed out.

“I hope we’re okay, Ron,” Dean cautioned. 

“Yeah, yeah, whatever.”

“Ron!” Ginny glared at him. 

“What?” 

“Come on, Dean.” She grabbed his hand and left The Three Broomsticks. Hermione all of a sudden looked sad which Ron found strange. It's not like she liked Dean, or did she? No, that can't be, she was looking at Ginny, not him. What if she… no, that would never happen. 

They were now walking across the snow-covered bridge, Ron and Hermione in the front while Harry walked by himself, several meters behind them. He was out of hearing range so this was the perfect time to talk to Hermione.

“What was that comment back there?” He said, making sure to not speak too loud, not wanting either Harry or Katie and Leann in front of him to hear. She looked at him confused. “About me and Harry. Snogging?” 

She stopped walking and turned towards him. “Ron, you know you can talk to me, right?” Hermione looked him straight in the eyes as she spoke, and he nodded. “I wanted to wait until you told me yourself but you have to know, I'm not blind.” 

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“I know you fancy Ha-” She stopped as they felt two arms wrap around them.

“What’s up?” It was Harry, he had caught up to them when they had stopped. Wait, how much had he overheard? He didn’t have time to worry about it because right then Katie flew nine meters into the sky as if pulled up by some invisible force. Hair flew wild in the wind, but her face remained neutral until out of nowhere she just started screaming. 

“Someone do something!” Leann shouted frantically. Katie fell back to the ground with a loud thud. She began twitching in the snow but her eyes remained wide.
“Get back! All of you!” It was Hagrid. He effortlessly scooped Katie up into his arms, whispering something in her ear. Whatever it seemed to have worked, her eyes fluttered close and her body stilled. Hagrid calls out for Harry to pick up the mysterious package, but to not touch anything except the wrapper. Harry did as he said and bent down to pick it up. They all followed closely behind as he carried her back to the school, saying close to nothing. 

The four three friends and Leanne stood in McGonagall’s office, Hagrid had taken Katie to Madame Pomfrey. The necklace splayed over the desk in front of them.

“You’re sure Katie did not have this in her possession when she entered the Three Broomsticks, Leanne?” McGonagall asked. 

“It’s like I said. She went to the loo and when she came back she had the package. She said it was important that she deliver it.” 

“Did she say to whom?” Leanne shook her head. 

“All right, Leanne. You may go.” Leanne turned and left, her steps echoing as she walked out. 

“Why is it that, whenever something happens, it's always you three?” 

Ron chuckled to himself. “Believe me professor, I’ve been asking myself the same question for six years?”

It was only he and Harry in their dorm; their other roommates were still down in the common room. Which gave Ron the perfect chance to change here instead of going to the bathroom. He quickly pulled his jumper over his head and grabbed one of his long sleeve shirts to put over himself. He felt a set of eyes staring at him and when he looked over, he saw Harry quickly glance away. Ron suddenly felt insecure again. But he remembered Harry said they weren’t ugly so it calmed his racing heartbeat. 

“Who are you watching on that map?” Ron walked over to him after finishing changing and snatched the Marauders Map out of his hand. 

“Ron!” Harry snapped.

The ginger quickly noticed the name Draco Malfoy moving down a hallway. 

“ M– Malfoy?”

“Ron!” Harry ripped the map out of Ron’s hands and slammed it on his bed. 

“You really think he cursed Katie, don’t you.”

“He was there at The Three Broomsticks! I’ve been trying to tell you guys, but you won’t listen. Malfoy is one of them.”

“Whatever makes you feel better,” He snorted. This obsession with Malfoy was unbelievably annoying to him. But Ron tried to push past the fact that he was actually jealous of a Slytherin git. It was almost embarrassing. No, not almost. It definitely was embarrassing.  

Ron walked to his bed and got under the covers so he could hide his irritation from Harry. He noticed Harry had the map open again and Ron had to suppress an eye roll.

“What do you suppose Dean sees in her? Ginny?” Ron was desperate to talk to Harry. And he’d be lying if he wasn’t curious as to why his sister was all of a sudden dating his roommate.

“Well, what does she see in him?”

“Dean? He’s brilliant. ” It’s true. Ron couldn’t deny the fact that Dean was not only clever but undeniably attractive. 

“You called him a slick git not five hours ago.”

“Yeah, well, he was running his hands all over my sister, wasn’t he? Something snaps, and you’ve gotta hate him, you know? On principle.”

“I suppose,” replied Harry. “But I’m not surprised Dean would want to date your sister. Ginny is smart, funny, attractive–”

“Attractive?” 

“Yes, Ron. Attractive. She’s got nice skin.”

“Like Luna?” he bit out. 

“Uh, yeah… Like Luna.” A beat of silence before Harry asked, “Do you have your eyes on someone?”

“No,” he answered quickly. “No one at all…”

Chapter Text

Walking down the hall the morning of a quidditch game seemed much more exciting when it was just Harry doing it, but now that it was himself his opinions have definitely changed. Hearing how everyone was counting on him only made his pre game anxiety that much worse. 

“Good luck, eh, Ron?” Neville said, patting Ron on back as he passed him in the great hall. He knew they all meant well but the pressure of having to do great was really getting to him. 

“Counting on you, Ron. I’ve got two galleons on gryffindor.” Seamus calls out as he walks by. 

His eyes wander over to the Slytherin table, or more specifically one obnoxious blonde and the quidditch team. They motion to him and someone must've said something funny because they all burst out laughing. Averting his gaze he almost walks straight into Cormac, who eyes him with disdain as he passes. 

Finally falling into his seat opposite Harry and Hermione. 

“I quit,” Ron blurted out.

“You what?” Harry stared at him as if he was nuts. 

“I quit! After this match, Mclaggen can have my spot.”
“Ron, you’re just nervous,” Kindly said Hermione. 

“You did great at practice, Ron.”

“You’re only saying this because you're my friends!” He stated dramatically. 

“You need to relax.” Harry said.

“I am relaxed!” He said quite loudly. “I am relaxed.” He repeated quieter. “How was your brilliant party?” He said with light bitterness, trying to distract himself. 

“It was pretty boring, actually,” Hermione said with sympathy. “But there’s meant to be a Christmas party. We can bring a guest. Would you like to come with me?”

“There isn’t a bloke you’d rather go with? Like an actual date?” 

Hermione blushed and lifted up the Daily Prophet to cover half her face. 

“There is!” Ron exclaimed. Was he right about Dean? He leaned in and whispered, “Is it Dean?”

“No, Ron!” she squealed. “And he so happens to be dating Ginny so even if it was him I couldn’t go with him anyway.” But she genuinely sounded devastated. Ron decided not to push it. 

“I’ll go with you, Hermione.” Ron grinned. 

“Hi, Ron.” Lavender Brown had approached him on her lonesome with a nervous smile. “Good luck today. I know you’ll be brilliant.” And without waiting for him to respond, she scurried off. 

“Hi, Luna!” Harry said loudly. To Ron’s surprise, the blonde Ravenclaw girl was sitting next to Ron with a crazy looking lion hat. 

“Hello, Harry! Everyone!” Her dream-like voice said gently. 

“How have you been?” Hermione asked. Ron purposefully looked down at his plate.

“I’ve been doing alright… I’m excited for the match. You both must be excited too!” Ron knew she was referring to him and Harry.  And just like that all his nerves came back.

“Yeah. We quite are. You know, I’m planning on dedicating the win to you, Luna.” Harry smiled.

“That’s nice.” Luna smiled back. 

Ron bit down on his tongue, refusing to say anything cruel. It’s not Luna’s fault Harry likes her. It’s not Luna’s fault Harry likes her, he repeated in his mind like a mantra.

Harry set pumpkin juice in front of Ron. He would have refused it if Harry hadn’t said, “Drink it. You need something in your system.”

“You do look dreadful, Ron,” Said Luna. Ron glared at her. “Is that why you’ve put something in his drink, Harry? Is it a tonic?”

Ron frowned, looking down at his drink before back at Harry who was putting away the small vial of Liquid Luck. 

“Don’t drink it, Ron!” Hermione whispered harshly.  

He looked at her, then Harry, then the cup before downing all of it. He suddenly felt less anxious and more confident. His heart beat slowed down and a smile crept on his face. 

“How do you feel?” Harry asked. 

“Brilliant!” Ron exclaimed. Not even the thought of what Harry said a mer minute ago could ruin his good mood. “Come on, Harry! We have a game to win.” He stood up, holding out his hand for Harry to shake, which he does. 

Out on the pitch, Ron was on fire. Block after block, Ron exclaimed his proudness. For once, the crowd wasn’t chanting at Harry but at Ron. Ron who has been in Harry’s shadow ever since first year. He’s never felt more alive. 

“Potter has caught the Snitch!” A familiar voice, Zacharias Smith, announced the win. “Gryffindor wins!”

The Gryffindor’s in the crowd roared with applause. Ron did a victory lap before landing. His sister is the first to hug him. 

“Excellent work, Ron!” She cheered. The rest of the team patted him on the back, shouting about how he did a good job. And then out of nowhere, Harry pushed through the crowd and embraced Ron tightly. Ron felt lighter than air. Maybe the Liquid Luck was still there because he had never expected a hug from Harry lasting longer than a few seconds.

“I made you Keeper for a reason,” Harry whispered right in Ron’s ear before finally pulling away. 

“PARTY IN THE COMMON ROOM!” Seamus bellowed and every Gryffindor rushed back to the tower. Ron felt ecstatic. One moment after another, people were telling him how great he did. He’s never gotten this much praise in his life. He never wanted it to end. 

Entering the Common Room, Seamus had already had drinks out with a flick of his wand. Dean, who had his wand pointed to his neck, announced that the drinks on the left were filled with Muggle alcohol and the others weren’t. The music began to blast and confetti shot out of people’s wands. 

“You did wonderful, Ron.” Hermione had finally found him through the massive crowd. 

“Thanks ‘Mione.” He beamed. “Where’s Harry?”

“Getting us drinks.” Just on cue, Harry came stumbling over to them with three red cups in his hands. 

“I got you a non alcoholic one, Hermione, but Roonnnn, I thought you’d want to have fun!”

“I can have fun!” Hermione said hotly.

“We know you can, Hermione.” Ron grabbed the drink from Harry. “But someone out of the three of us has to watch out for the other two. We’ve never been drunk before.”

“I will not be your babysitter!” 

“Whatever you say…” With that being said, Ron took a big sip of his drink. He had to muster all his strength not to spit it out. It was disgusting. And clearly Harry thought so too because of the grimace on his face. 

“This is what Muggle’s drink?” Ron looked between Harry and Hermione. 

“It’s probably Vodka which I find revolting.”

“You’ve had it before?” Harry’s eyebrows shot upward. 

“On accident… I strongly suggest you two not to drink it.” And then she left, going deeper into the crowd. 

Ron and Harry shared a look both shrugging down the drink; Ron gagged at the end while Harry had a funny looking face.
“Seamus! Another one!” Ron shouted over the music.

“You got it, mate!” Seamus winked at him. 

It turned out, Ron’s best friend, Harry Potter, was a lightweight and his other best friend, Hermione Granger, knew how to have fun. For once, Hermione wasn’t nose deep in a book but laughing with Ginny and dancing with her. Ron thought the sight was strange but it was almost perfect.It was definitely better then having Ginny dancing with Dean (who was playing some Muggle Game with Seamus.) But as Ron searched the crowd, purposefully avoiding Lavender’s gaze, he couldn’t seem to find a particular Gryffindor. 

“Hey, Neville!” Ron stumbled over to his roommate who was sitting on the couch with some girl. Ron wasn’t drunk. He hadn’t drank that much, but he was a bit tipsy. “Have you seen Harry?”

“Um… I think he’s on the steps?”

“Thanks, mate, you’re the best,” He rushed out before literally pushing people out the way to make it to the stairwell. Neville was right. Harry was sitting on a step, wand out and using it as a drumstick. 

“Harry?”

“Ron!” Harry beamed. He quickly stood up, before falling right into Ron’s arms. Oh, he’s really testing his limits now. 

“Merlin, Harry, how much did you drink?” He tried to move him down the steps, but Harry had other plans. He lifted himself up and dragged Ron up a few steps so no one could see them. 

“I’mnotsure,” He slurred his words together. Ron laughed and leaned back against the wall to give Harry some space. “You’re not wearing a long sleeve shirt…”

“Heh,” Ron chuckled nervously, looking down at his bare arms. “I just thought people wouldn’t be paying attention to that..”

“I’m paying attention,” Harry mumbled. “I’m always paying attention.”

“That’s… nice, Harry. I bet Luna would love to see you like this…” He joked. His mind wasn’t exactly fully intact. 

“Luna?” Harry frowned before his mouth dropped open. “Luna! Mhm, I’m so… in love with h–her, Ron.” Harry stared up at him. Ron couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Harry. In love with Luna? “Hi– Her eyes, they’re so mesmerizing and– and–” He stumbled into Ron’s space, placing a hand over the ginger’s chest. Ron froze, unable to collect his thoughts. Harry could probably feel Ron’s heart increase in speed. Ron needed to get away from him. 

“I wished she looked at me the way I looked at her,” Harry mumbled. His lips were so close to Ron’s. Even though his breath smelled of alcohol, Ron couldn’t care. “It’s not fair, ya know?” The shorter boy’s hand roamed across the ginger’s chest to down his arms where his scars were. 

Ron felt all the air in his lungs get sucked out of him. Harry was too close to him. It was unfair. 

“Harry–” Whatever words he had been about to say died when Harry’s lips crashed against Ron’s. He backed farther against the wall if that were possible, but Harry followed him. His warm hand found Ron’s flaming hot cheeks and rested there. Harry pressed harder into him, and Ron, who has dreamt of this more times then he could imagine, pushed Harry backward. So hard, a quiet thud echoed the empty stairwell as the shorter hit the wall. 

“Fuck you, Harry!” Ron almost screamed. 

“R-Ron– I–”

“I’m not– I’m not Luna. You can’t just fucking kiss me because she doesn’t want you!”

“Ron– wait–” Harry reached for him, but Ron shoved him back again to the point his glasses fell off. Ron’s whole body shook as he stormed down the steps. 

This wasn’t fair. Not in the slightest. He was about to get a drink, to forget all of this, but Seamus had other plans. He pulled Ron into the middle of a crowd where people began to chant his name. Confetti shot over his head as people clapped. Just as he was about to walk away, a pair of hands gripped his arm, spun him around, and he was kissed straight on the lips. 

Ron almost pushed away, thinking it was Harry again, but the lips on his were softer and tasted like strawberries. He quickly realized it was Lavender Brown snogging him. The crowd cheered even louder and without a second thought, Ron kissed back passionately. Grabbing her around the waist and pulling her closer. He hoped Harry had been watching. Not because Ron thought he’d be jealous, but because Harry couldn’t care for Ron that way anyways, so he had to show him that the kiss didn't mean anything to him. Even though it did. It meant everything . 

Ron doesn’t know this. He had left the Common Room with Lavender to do more snogging in private, but Harry had seen the whole thing. He saw the kiss and stumbled up to his dorm, slammed the door shut, and screamed into his pillow until he fell asleep, hating himself more by the minute. 

Chapter Text

The next morning, Ron wanted to smack Harry in the face. The first thing he remembered from the night before was Harry snogging him. Obviously Harry was hurting because Luna clearly doesn’t want him back, so he took it out on Ron by kissing him . But it wasn’t right. Ron wasn’t something Harry could just use because of a broken heart. And Ron was going to prove that. Surprisingly, he was the second one up (Neville being the first) so he was able to meet Hermione down for breakfast. 

“Good morning, Ronald.” Hermione set down her Charms book. “Sleep well?”

“No,” he admitted as he bit down on his eggs. “No, Hermione, I slept awful.”

“How come?” She frowned. 

“Something happened last night and I just want to forget it but I can’t!”

Hermione leaned in.

“Do you mean kissing Lavender?” She whispered. “I honestly think you shouldn’t have. Considering you like Ha–”

“Please, don’t remind me.” He whispered back sadly. He was about to tell her, because he was desperate to have someone else know, but Lavender came rushing to his side. 

“There he is!” She beamed and sat down next to him. “How’s my Won Won?”

“Your, uh, what?” Ron stared at her as if she was mad. 

“My little Won Won.” She giggled. “Did you sleep okay?”

“Er– yeah. I slept great.”

“That’s wonderful! I was thinking we could go to Hogsmeade today. We could go to the Three Broomsticks and then…” Ron stopped listening when a familiar olive skinned boy entered the Great Hall. He looked awful. His hair all over the place, his glasses not on right, and didn’t even bother changing out of his pajamas. “What do you think, Ron?”

“What?” Ron looked at Lavender and then realized she asked him a question. “Yes! That sounds wonderful.”

“Morning ‘Mione,” said Harry who sat down next to her. “Ron. Er– Lavender.”

“Harry,” Ron said with no emotion. There was no way he’d let Harry have the satisfaction of seeing him affected by what happened. 

“Sleep well, Harry?” Hermione asked. 

“Oh yeah.” Harry nodded. “But I don’t remember anything from last night.”

“You– You don’t?” Ron asked, stumbling over his words.

“Did something happen?” Harry looked between Ron and Hermione, waiting for an answer. 

So the git doesn’t even remember the kiss? Ron scoffed in his own mind. That fucking arsehole. 

“Lavender and I got together,” Ron bit out. Harry’s eyebrows shot upwards. 

“We’re dating now.” Lavender giggled from beside Ron. She quickly wrapped her arms around him and, even though Ron internally grimaced, put on a broad smile. 

“That’s… that’s great!” Harry exclaimed. Though the sincerity that was usually heard in his friend’s voice was nowhere to be found.   

“We’re going on a date right now, actually.” Lavender stood and grabbed Ron’s hand. 

“We are–?” 

“We’ll see you guys later!” She pulled Ron out the Great Hall. He didn’t want to go. Not in the slightest. But the fact Harry hadn’t remembered something so damaging he’d done, ticked Ron off. Maybe this was his chance to move on. With Lavender. She clearly liked him. That was now obvious to Ron. This was his only chance and he was going to take it. 

A few weeks go by and Ron had been spending more time with Lavender then Harry and Hermione. There were multiple reasons why. For starters, Lavender just wouldn’t let him go. Almost like she needed him near to be able to breathe. Although having to break the news that he was going with Hermione to Slughorn’s Christmas party- purely platonically - was one of his few mistakes. Lavender threw a fit but after Ron snogged her senselly, she quickly forgave him.

The Christmas party was tonight and Ron had just found out Harry’s date. He should have known. Really . Harry wouldn’t shut up about Luna recently. She was always with them at meals. She even went to Hogsmeade with them once. Which must’ve meant that Luna liked him back. So Ron had given up on the whole not hating Luna thing. He couldn’t stand her anymore. Which isn't fun because for some reason her and Lavender got on pretty well too. 

Ron had owled his mother to borrow one of his brother’s old suits and she mailed him a simple black one with a red tie. (He believed it belonged to Bill when he was younger.)

He finished putting on his tie when as sudden deja vu hit him the moment Harry walked in wearing his dress robes. He looked stunning. His black suit really brought out his beautiful green eyes. But then the memory of Harry leaning in and kissing him flooded his mind and sudden anger rose in him.

“Hermione and I will meet you there,” Ron said quickly. Before Harry could get a word out, Ron stormed out of the dorm and met Hermione at the entrance of the common room. Ron couldn’t lie. Hermione looked pretty. She wore a pink dress that went up to her knees and a small necklace. 

“You are a sight for sore eyes.” Ron smiled

Hermione blushed.  

“And you look dashing.” She wrapped her arm through his. “Are we waiting for Harry?”

“No.” He said coldly 

“Why not?” She frowned.

“Because I don't want to.”

Hermione let out a long sigh, but didn’t say more. She lead Ron to Slughorn’s office and the moment they entered, they’re greeted by Slughorn himself, 

“Miss Granger!” He beamed. “And you’ve brought a date. Let’s see… Mr…”

“Weasley, sir. Ron Weasley.”

“Yes, that’s right! A quick photo with you Miss. Granger and I’ll let you get back to your date.” Ron blushed at his words, just hearing himself in the context of a date was getting him flustered. 

They took some quick photos with Slughorn and after that Neville came up to them. He was dressed in what looked like a waiter's uniform, carrying a tray of drinks. 

“Drink?” 

“Oh yes please.” Ron grabbed two offering one to Hermione, she accepted and Neville walked away. Taking a rather large sip, hoping for some alcohol to forget about Harry and Luna only to be disappointed. 

“Come on, Ronald. You didn't really think they’d be serving alcohol to minors, did you?” Hermione asked as she slowly sipped on her drink. 

“Well, one can hope.”

They walked over to a corner, so they weren't in the way for the pictures. Having put down his empty glass of disappointment on some table, Ron now leaned against the wall listening to Hermione ramble on about how frustrating Cormac was. He apparently had been trying to get her to go with him to the party for the past two weeks, she obviously had declined. 

“So, are you ever going to tell me what’s going on between you and Harry?”

This piqued Ron’s interest, but he pretended to be uninterested. 

“What do you mean? Nothing happened at the party .” He said and a smug smile took over Hermione’s face. “What?”

“I never said anything about the party, Ron.” Oh, fuck me. “So tell me, tell me about this nothing that occurred during the party.”

“Well it doesn't matter now anyways.” 

“Why?”

“He doesn't remember. The arsehole snogged me, and then he actually went and forgot about it!” Ron said, louder than he meant making him snap his mouth shut. A few people turned to look at them. “No–shit– I-I wasn't supposed to say that.”

“So, he didn't kiss you?” Hermione’s brows furrowed in confusion. 

“No, no he did.”

“Wait, was this before or after you kissed Lavender?” 

Ron said nothing.

“Ronald?”

“Before…” He admitted. 

Hermione looked as though she would start yelling at him right there and then in front of everyone. But she didn’t. Ron watched as her eyes traveled across the room and he followed. 

There, standing next to Professor Slughorn was Harry, and wrapped around his arm was Luna. Ron knew he’d be seeing them there, but actually seeing it turned out to be way more painful than imagining it. He could understand why he liked her, she was beautiful, dressed in a pale blue gown that went to her ankles. He’d never envied a person more than he did now. Watching as they talked with each other, making jokes, laughing and just being together.

Did I really ask for too much? All I wanted was for him to look at me the way he looked at her. It must’ve been too much, because for all Ron knew, Harry only wanted to look at Luna.

“You need to tell Harry how you feel,” Hermione whispered. Ron could have laughed. 

“You’re joking.” see you have a brain though i never would have guess

“Ron, it’s killing you…”

“If you haven’t noticed, he's in love with Luna. I mean… look at them… they’re perfect for each other.”

Hermione let out a long sigh and before Ron knew it, she grabbed his hand and led him out on the floor to dance. 

“How is dancing going to help my troubles, ‘Mione?” 

Hermione smiled. 

“It’s just meant to distract you, that’s all.”

And it did. For a good few minutes until Harry and Luna bumped into them while they were dancing. 

“I was never taught how to dance,” Harry said shyly. 

“Neither was I,” Luna admitted. “Well, not like this at least.”

“You're probably better than you think,” said Hermione. “But I can teach you?”

“That’d be wonderful!” Luna let go of Harry’s hand and quickly grabbed the other girl’s hand. They definitely drew a few eyes. Some good, some bad, but Ron had never admired Hermione more than right now. But what was he supposed to do now that his dance partner had left him alone. Did Hermione do this on purpose? To get us to talk? 

“Oh, don't just stand there. Dance.” Hermione called out, while she danced. 

“It’s weird if you don't,” added Luna. “Come on.” 

Not knowing whether to be excited or annoyed he grabbed one of Harry’s hands in his own, placing his other one on his waist. Oh merlin. He could feel his cheeks heating up by the second and was surprised to find Harry in a similar situation. He was probably embarrassed to be dancing with Ron. That was all it was. All it could be, he told himself. 

Now really taking a closer look at the boy in front of him, his breath hitched in his throat as he realized he could feel Harry’s on his neck. This really wasn't going to end well. The piercing emerald eyes that were pinned on his eyes flicked down for a second- almost as if looking on Ron’s lips- before quickly returning. 

“It feels like I never see you nowadays.” Harry said, solemnly. 

“What- what do you mean?” 

“Well, you're always around that Lila girl. You never hang out with me anymore- I mean us. You never hang out with us anymore.” He explained. Ron ignored how Harry purposely said Lav’s name wrong, he honestly couldn’t care less. 

“Well you're not one to talk.” Ron scoffed.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Harry asked while taking a step back, creating more space between them. 

“You're always reading that bloody book or obsessing over that god damn map, or should I say Malfoy. It's like you care more about him than your own friends!” Now it was Ron’s turn to take a step back, they had completely let go of each other and were just standing in the middle of the dance floor. Some had stopped to watch, while others continued. Though everyone stopped as Flich dragged the boy in question into the party by the arm. 

“Take your hands off me, you filthy Squib!” Malfoy sneered. 

“Professor Slughorn, sir. I just discovered this boy in an upstairs corridor.” Filch spoke while Malfoy stood there looking defeated. “He claims to have been invited to your party.”

“Okay, okay. I was gatecrashing.” Malfoy admitted. “Happy?” 

Professor Snape stepped up and grabbed hold of him. “I’ll escort him out.”

“Certainly, professor.” 

They walked out and everyone continued with the party. 

Ron watched as Harry turned to leave. Ron reached out and grabbed his wrist before he could. 

“Where are you going?” Ron asked. 

“I need to know what's happening with Malfoy.”

“Seriously? I mean, we literally just talked about this? Are you really that thick?” 

“Are you?” Harry snapped back. “You know, Ron, one day you're gonna have to learn that the world doesn't revolve around you, okay? And yes, I'm really going. I don't have time for you and your insecurities.” Harry stormed off leaving Ron completely alone. 

Maybe that was the way it was supposed to be. Maybe he was destined to a life of watching the boy he loved, loving someone else so that he could remain happy. 

Chapter Text

What was usually filled by the sounds of chattering voices and laughter was now filled by the sounds of the train moving. Ever since that party things had not been the same between the two boys. They rarely spoke and when they did it was mostly to give snide remarks or to argue. It hadn't been this bad since the fourth year when Ron thought Harry had been lying to him about the whole tournament thing. But this was different because that was only a misunderstanding but this, this ran much deeper. Deep enough that they wanted it to be kept buried. 

Ron was sitting by the window looking out, as Hermione sat next to him, feet in his lap. Harry had taken the seat in front of her, avoiding any and all contact with Ron. Everytime Hermione tried to start a conversation it ended quickly with either Ron or Harry being a right prick to the other. Ron was sure she would have given up by now, but oh was he wrong. 

She pulled her legs away from Ron and sat up straight. “When are you going to stop acting like children and actually talk to each other about what is bothering you?” She scolded, sounding a lot like his mother. “Go on. Talk.”

No one said anything. Hermione sighed deeply before standing up. 

“Fine. I’m gonna find Ginny and talk to her for a bit. When I get back I want to see some progress. Got it?” Both boys grumbled out yes’s and that seemed to appease Hermione, and she left.

“You want to go check up on your girlfriend?” Harry started. 

“Can’t stand that I’m not in your shadow for once?” Ron snapped. Something clearly changed in Harry. His eyes somewhat softened and his mouth parted slightly. Good. Feel guilty. “Just because Luna doesn’t want you back…” he muttered. It wasn’t necessary, but he was irritated. 

Whatever pity Harry had quickly died at the comment. With a loud huff, he dramatically turned to face the compartment door instead of Ron himself. So they just sat there, for at least 30 minutes before Hermione returned. But for Ron, it had felt like an eternity in hell. He loved being around Harry, but like this, where they’re fighting, it was torture. 

“Is it safe to enter?” She asked, peeking her head through the opening. 

“Yeah.” Harry said, not looking up from his book. 

“So you’re okay now?” 

They nodded, she looked unconvinced, but that was a worry for another day. Ron’s only plan for now was to sleep until they arrived. 

One of the things loved about the Burrow was that it never changed. It was always home. So being there should have made him feel relief, right? No. Not this time. Because all Ron could think of was that he’d have to go back to sharing a bed with Harry. And the circumstances now were worse than last time. 

Entering, he’s greeted by a warm embrace from his mum and a mediocre wave from Fred and George. Sitting on the couch were Remus and Sirius, who both quickly got up to embrace Harry. Well, only Sirius. Remus gave Harry a firm handshake. 

“How are you guys?” Sirius asked. Ron, being immature, glared at Harry before walking away to put his stuff in his bedroom. “... not good, eh?” He faintly heard the older said. Ron dragged his heavy feet up to his room and fell face-first on his bed. This would be his only time alone. He was going to take advantage of that. 

He was beginning to drift off when a loud knock on the door caused him to slowly open one eye. 

“Leave me alone, Mum!” Ron grumbled, turning away from the door. 

“It’s not Mum!” shouted Ginny. “Get your arse down here. We’re having dinner.”

Dinner sounded amazing. Although Ron didn’t want to sit with everyone right now and chat and make friendly with Harry in front of his mum. But his stomach growled loudly so it was already decided for him. 

Being at the dining table, he sat between Ginny and Remus; right across from him, of course, was Harry laughing at a story Sirius was telling. 

“Moony here was the cleverest out of all us,” said Sirius. “James could come up with pranks, which he did, but when Remus did it, we never got caught.”

“My Prefect privileges helped, I must say,” said Remus who looked embarrassed at the compliment. 

“But did you ever disrupt O.W.L exams?” grinned Fred. 

“By flying on brooms and exploding fireworks everywhere?” finished George with a proud smirk. 

“Can’t say we have,” Sirius leaned back in his chair. “Pretty impressive the both of you. Moony and I are proud.”

“I– I don’t condone this type of behavior anymore.” But Ron could see the smirk he was hiding behind his drink. 

“And what have you boys been up to?” Mum asked, looking back and forth between Ron and Harry. 

“ Ron’s got himself a girlfriend,” muttered Harry. Not only did everyone’s mouth drop, but Fred actually spat out his drink on Ginny. 

“ Fred!” she cried. 

“A girlfriend?” said Dad, who was the only one who didn’t seem so shocked. “What’s her name, Ron?”

“Lavender.” He took a big bite out of his food, hoping to avoid questions. 

“That’s a lovely name,” said Mum who had just cast a cleaning spell over Ginny. “Is she… nice?”

“Yeah. She’s nice,” He said shortly. “You know, Harry’s got his eyes on someone.”

“My godson has his eyes on someone?” Sirius beamed. “Who is she? Or him ?” He inquired. 

“H-Him?” Harry squeaked. “No, It’s not a bloke. It’s no one– really–”

“It’s Luna Lovegood.”

“Ron!” Harry snapped. 

“Or maybe it’s Malfoy,” snorted Ron. 

“MALFOY!?” Both Harry and Sirius yelled. “I’m not– gross– absolutely not! It’s not Malfoy!” Ron’s never seen Harry so angry. “You know Ron got drunk at a Gryffindor party.”

Ron’s mouth flew open. 

“Is that true, Ronald?” Mum looked angry now too. 

“Harry did too!” He complained. “He doesn’t even remember that night.”

“There’s– there’s nothing important to remember!” He tried to justify himself. 

Ron scoffed. The nerve he has!

“Nothing to remember? You– You–”

“What did I do? Get a girlfriend? No, that was you!”

“You snogged me, you bloody prick!” Ron practically screamed. 

It went dead silent in the Burrow. The only thing that could be heard was Fred’s chewing. 

“What are you talking about?” Harry said in a low tone. 

“Nothing. Just forget it.” Ron stabbed a piece of chicken and put it in his mouth. What an idiot he was.

“I didn’t–”

“Yes. You did. You were talking about Luna and your sorry arse kissed me because you were sad.”

“Language, Ron!” Mum scolded.

“B-But–”

“I need some air.” Ron aggressively pushed back out of his chair and stormed outside. He was so angry at Harry and at himself. How could Ron say such a stupid thing in front of his family? And how could, after all of this, Ron still be in love with Harry?

“Do you mind if I join you, Ron?” It was Remus who walked next to him. Ron quickly brushed an unwanted tear away and straightened himself.

“Mum sent you?”

“I volunteered,” his ex-professor admitted. “I hope that’s alright.”

“I suppose…”

“Ron, I’ve been in your shoes before.”

“... Your best mate kissed you in a drunken haze?” He raised an eyebrow.

“Um, no, not that. But being in love with my best mate, yes.”

Ron could have sworn his heart stopped. 

“I-I’m not in love with Harry,” he scoffed. “That’s bollocks.”

“It’s the truth. Fairly, it’s unbelievably obvious. The only person who can’t seem to realize is Harry himself.”

“Would you just stop? Please?” He looked away, suddenly embarrassed. “I don’t need another lecture as to why I should just tell Harry how I feel.”

“Hermione told you that?” Remus guessed. Ron nodded. “Clever witch, she is.” The werewolf let out a long sigh. “I can’t tell you what to do, Ron. Frankly, all I can tell you is trying to date to move on doesn’t help. Sirius tried that and, well, it didn’t work.”

“I’m not dating to move on.” His words earned a look from Remus. “Okay, maybe I am! So what? For once someone actually is paying attention to me . Not Harry.”

“Harry pays attention to you.”

“Not in the way I want.” Tears teased his eyes but he quickly blinked them away. 

“Perhaps not, but it’s not his fault… don’t ruin a friendship because he doesn’t want you back, Ron. I almost did that and it… it ruined Sirius and I for a while.”

“Right.” But Ron shook his head because he didn’t find it fair that his old professor still ended up with the person he loved while Ron was stuck with a girl he could barely stand. 

“I’ll leave you alone.” Remus left back inside.

Ron slid to the floor and brought his knees up to his chest, head now resting back against the wall. After a few minutes, a new set of footsteps walked out. 

“Ron?” It was Harry. 

The ginger scrambled to his feet and cleared his throat awkwardly. 

“Harry.”

“I… well– I don’t… I’m sorry. I didn’t know I snogged you… I-I shouldn’t have taken out my feelings about  Luna on you. Literally.”

“I just wished you hadn’t,” Ron whispered. 

“ I know. I’m sorry. I’ll never drink again…” There was a long pause before Harry continued. “And I’m sorry for telling your family you’ve got yourself a girlfriend and the drinking. I've been a complete cock… paying attention  to the book and Malfoy of all people instead of you a-and Hermione.”

“I’ve been a cock too,” Ron admitted. 

“It’s safe to say we’ve both been,” Harry stated. “But, I do miss our nightly talks…”

A grin crept on Ron’s face. Remus was right. Ron can’t blame Harry for not being in love with him. And Ron would rather die than give up his friendship with Harry. 

Christmas had finally arrived and Ron couldn’t have had a better day. He and Harry were finally getting along again and everything seemed right in the world. That morning, everyone had exchanged gifts, nothing really special just the normal knitted sweaters and assortments of candy. And just as soon as the day had started it was already time for the two boys to go to their shared bed. 

As they walked up the stairs, Harry gently grabbed Ron’s arm and stopped him. Ron, who was unbelievably exhausted, frowned and looked down at Harry with confusion.

“Ron?” Harry looked up at him, his eyes shimmered from the dim light the Burrow provided. 

“Yeah?” Ron whispered. His eyes couldn’t stop flickering down at Harry’s lips. He prayed to the gods Harry hadn’t noticed. 

“I… H-Happy Christmas.” He smiled gently. 

“Happy Christmas, Harry.” He smiled back, but his heart ached deeply. He was about to walk up the stairs when a loud crash was heard from outside. Quickly, looking out the window, the sight of black smoke soaring through

the sky. 

“Death Eaters,” Ron whispered. Harry, who saw it too, pulled out his wand and was about to go when Ron gripped his arm and pulled him close. “You can’t.” 

“I have to!” He ripped Ron’s hand off of him and ran down the steps. Ron quickly ran after him, but his friend was definitely quicker. By the time Ron reached downstairs, where his parents were staring off at the fire that surrounded the Burrow, Harry had just made it through the fire. What should I do? What should I do? Ron screamed in his mind. Watching the fire roar higher as Sirius and Remus tried fending it off. Someone had to get to Harry. Without much thought, Ron ran, ignoring his Mum’s scream, and jumped through the fire. He let out a yell when fire brushed against his exposed skin but continued. 

“Harry! HARRY!” Ron bellowed with his wand out and in front of him. In the distance, he could hear Bellatrix Lestrange’s cackle. Ron’s heart raced in fear so he picked up his pace as much as he could. Stumbling into a clearing, it went dead silent. And then a cracking noise echoed through the quiet night and Ron quickly raised his wand. “H-Harry?”

“I’ve never tasted a Blood-Traitor before,” snarled a rough voice. Ron let out a rough gasp and shouted, “Stupefy!” at Fenrir Greyback who easily blocked it. 

“Ron!” Out of nowhere, Harry jumped in front of him and blocked a spell that the werewolf cast from his wand. “What are you doing here?” Harry screamed. 

“Rescuing you, of course!” He shouted back before pushing him out of the way from a curse from Greyback. 

“Get out of here, Ron!”

“You’re mad if I think I’m leaving you!” Ron quickly blocked a curse from a different direction. Greyback apparated, disappearing, Merlin knows where. So they were left standing in the middle of the tall grass, waiting to be attacked from every direction possible. Around them, they could hear others yelling their names, but no one came. 

Curses were fired left and right as Harry and Ron stood their ground, blocking them all. There was no point in trying to fire back because they had no idea where the criminals hid. Ron tensed up as he saw two bodies move in the grass and prepared to fight them as well. They came towards them quickly. But he relaxed once he could make out the faces of Remus and Sirius. 

Now the four of them standing together, the hexes stopped. This can't be good. Then Ron’s dad came out as well, forming a circle with the others. Black smoke filled the sky, they were leaving. Ron didn't feel relief, something inside of him was telling him it wasn't over , something else was going to happen. Something big . 

The figures of smoke rushed above them and went right towards the house, going right through it. The Burrow lit up like a candle in the night sky, part of it crumbling to the ground. 

“Molly…” Arthur said under his breath, loud enough for everyone else to hear before running back to where they came from. They followed him shortly behind. 

His mum and everyone else were staring at what was once was their house, but now was nothing more than a hunk of wood and soon-to-be ash. It was gone, it was all gone. Ron knew he should’ve been crushed, devastated even. But he wasn’t. Of course, he was sad, but not as sad as he should’ve been. Because the Burrow wasn’t his home , it was the people inside of it. It was Harry. 

Chapter Text

Harry’s POV

“You're lucky you weren't killed.” Hermione spoke, reading the daily prophets as she walked down the corridor with Harry on her right. Folding the paper up and showing it to him, More Disappearances, the headline read. “You have to realize who you are, Harry.” 

“I know who I am, Hermione, alright?” He snapped back harshly. “Sorry.” She gave him a weak smile. Harry had always struggled with controlling his anger. Lashing out at everyone and everything. He always felt angry, and it was exhausting to the point the ones who had to endure most of his outburst were the people he least wanted to. Ron and especially Hermione knew not to take it to heart. He only wished he and Ron would fight less. At least the fights never lasted long. 

“So, tell me what Mr. Weasley said.”

“If Dumbledore is traveling places, it's news to the Ministry. But get this: that night at Borgin and Burkes? It seemed Malfoy was looking at a vanishing cabinet.”

“A vanishing cabinet? What would Draco want with a vanishing cabinet?”

“You tell me.” Harry shrugged. 

“He looks different, don't you think? Draco. Almost… ill.” Hermione pondered. 

“Who could tell the difference?” Harry said. He did not care about Malfoy and there was no way he was going to let his friends go around thinking that. 

“You and Ron getting along again?”

“Yeah, yeah we are.” Harry smiled to himself and Hermione gave him a weird look. “What?”

“No, nothing.” She took the paper and folded it back, placing it beneath her arm and turning toward him. “You know you can talk to me, right?”

“Yeah ‘Mione, I know.” He gave a reassuring smile and they continued walking.

“Lav, come on. Of course I'll wear it.” Ron said to pouting Lavender as they sat in an alcove, on the side of the hallway. She was holding a gold chain necklace, with the words My Sweetheart written on it. Why is he even with her? 

Lavender smiled as she clasped it around Ron’s neck. “That’s my Won-Won.” 

“Excuse me, I have to go vomit.” Harry said, feeling rather sick to his stomach as he made his exit. 

After speaking with Dumbledore and ruining things between him and Professor Slughorn, Harry sat in the common room with only Hermione and the fire the lit up the space. Ron had just quickly walked past them, when he came back from being with Lavender about an hour ago. Hermione was trying to finish some Herbology homework, while Harry sat next to her, looking at the map.  

“Did you really expect you could just walk up to Ol’ Sluggy and ask him to reveal his deepest, darkest secrets?” Harry shrugged. “Honestly, Harry, sometimes I think The Daily Prophet should be calling you The Dim One. ”

“Nice one, Hermione.” He was barely paying attention to her. 

“You're going to have to persuade him somehow. And now, I’m afraid you’ve gone and made that a lot harder.” She said while collecting her things and getting up to leave. 

“Hermione, I think Malfoy is leaving the castle.” Stopping dead in her tracks, she turned around. “I’ve seen it. Sometimes… sometimes he just disappears off the map.”

“That’s… not possible. No one can leave the castle these days. The map is wrong.” 

“The map is never wrong.” 

Hermione shook her head and turned to leave again. Heading up the stairs to the girls dormitory. It was late and he decided to do the same.

Walking into the dark dorm only illuminated by the full moon he stopped in the middle of the room. There were candy wrappers all over the floor in a trail towards the window still where Ron was sitting. Next to him was an open heart shaped candy box. 

“It’s beautiful, isn't it? The moon.” Ron said, knees pulled up to his chest as he stared out the window. 

“Divine.” Harry replied as he took a seat on his bed. “Had ourselves a little late night snack, did we?” 

“It was on your bed. The box… thought I’d try one…”

“Or twenty.” Harry chuckled. 

“I can’t stop thinking about her, Harry.” 

“I figured,” Harry said bitterly before clearing his throat. “Why don’t you go snog her?”

“Oh, I want to so badly, but she doesn’t even know I exist!” Ron wailed as he made his way over to the bed, pushing in close to Harry so they were sitting almost nose to nose. His heart skipped a beat.

“Wha-what do you mean she doesn’t know you exist?” Harry managed to choke out, his eyes flickered down to Ron’s lips. “You're off snogging her every other minute.”

“Wait, snogging? Who are you talking about?” Ron asked.

“Who are you talking about?” Harry fired back.

“Romilda of course. Romilda Vane.”

“Yeah, okay. Very funny, Ron.” Harry frowned as he went up to pick up the trash from the floor. As if Lavender didn’t hurt enough, now there was Romilda as well. The world just really wouldn’t give him a break. A loud smack echoed in the room as Harry felt something hit the back of his head. “What was that for?!” Harry rubbed the back of his head to ease the pain.

“It’s no joke! I’m in love with her!” Ron exclaimed, standing up. 

“Alright, fine, you’re in love with her. Have you ever even met her?”

“No.” Ron’s expression falls. Then lights up like a light bulb. “Could you introduce me?!” 

Ron walked back to his old seat by the window and stared dreamily at the moon. Harry picked up the card that came with the chocolates, which must've been the cheesiest shit he’d ever seen. Then it hit him. A love potion, of course.

“Come on, Ron.” Harry said, placing a hand on his shoulder. “I’m going to introduce you to Romilda Vane.” 

Ron giddy like a kid of Christmas hurried to his feet as he followed Harry out of the dorm, down the hall and all the way to Slughorn's office. 

He knocked twice before the small door slot slid open and revealed a tired looking professor. 

“I'm sorry sir. I wouldn’t bother you if it weren’t absolutely-” Harry said. 

“Where is Romilda?” Ron interrupted from behind, all the talk about Romilda had really started to take a toll on Harry's nerves.

“What’s the matter with Wemby?” Slughorn question.

“A very powerful love potion.” Harry leaned closer and whispered. 

“Very well. Better bring him in.”

Slughorn opened the door and Harry pulled Ron in behind him. 

Harry watched as the old man walked around the room collecting all the things he needed for the potion. He couldn't name half of the ingredients if he tried. Ron had taken to staring at himself in the mirror, touching up his hair and trying to straighten up his clothes. This was just ridiculous. Looking down on a table next to him was the picture from the party, his right arm wrapped around Luna and his left shaking Slughorns. It felt creepy that his teacher kept a picture of them specifically in his room. He tried not to dwell on it. 

“I’d have thought you could whip up a remedy for this in no time, Harry. An expert potioneer like yourself.” Slughorn said, pouring some shimmery liquid into a vial. 

“I figured this called for a more practiced hand, sir.” Harry lied with ease. “Oh, and I'm sorry, sir. About our little… misunderstanding, the other day.” 

“No worries, m’boy. Water under the bridge, as they say?”

“Must be annoying, still getting questions about Voldemort after all these years.” 

“Don’t say that name.” Slughorn replied sharply. 

Behind them came a loud thud. Ron had been sitting on the couch end and falled down behind it. Stupid wanker. The professor finished the cure and they walked over to where Ron had now taken his seat on the couch again. 

“Alright, m’boy! Bottoms up.” Slughorn held out the glass for Ron to take, but he just watched it carefully. 

“What’s this?” Ron asked, taking the glass and looking at it suspiciously.

“A tonic. For the nerves.” Slughorn said. 

Ron downs it in a second. The drowsy smile falling off his face and replaced by a confused look. 

“What happened?” he asked. 

“Love potion.” Harry said, looking like he stole Ron’s expression. 

“A bloody strong one at that.” Slughorn added, taking the glass from him. 

“I feel really bad.” Ron said. 

 Slughorn hummed as he walked over to the table looking for something. “Pick-me-up is what you need, m’boy.” he looked over at Harry. “Do us all good, I think. I’ve got butterbear, wine- ah - and a dazzling oak matured mead. I had other intentions for this but given the circumstances…” popping the cork and grabbing new glasses. Filling up the first and handing it over to Ron. He starts to sip on it while Slughorn pours up two more. Finally hanging one over to Harry and keeping one for himself. “There we are, Potter. To life!” 

A crash. Ron’s glass is laying on the floor, broken to bits as Ron himself fell to his knees on the rug. Then crumbling like a pile, white foam started to appear in his mouth like a rabid dog. Something was very wrong. Harry dropped his own glass, shattering on impact as he threw himself to the floor, to his friend. 

“Ron! Ron! Professor, help him!” 

“I d-do-don’t understand…” Slughorn stuttered out. Ron continued to convulse on the floor. 

“Professor, do something!” Harry turned back to Ron, he started to turn an almost blue color. Oh no. “He’s choking!”

But Slughorn did nothing, only stood there, frozen in shock. Something clicked in Harry and he rushed over to Slughorn’s bag of different elixirs and potions looking for anything to save Ron. Rummaging through it, throwing out anything that isnt of use. A small box fell out and opened on the floor. Out of it rolled small rock like objects. Bezoars. Harry had read about them in the book, they could cure almost anything. 

Bending down and picking up the closest one he ran back to where Ron was still laying on the floor and grabbed him by the neck. Using his hands to wrench his mouth open, shoving the bezoar down his throat. 

Instantly Ron stopped moving, paralyzed almost. No no no. He placed both of his hands behind Rons necks and gave him a rough shake. 

“Breathe! Come on Ron don’t do this to me! Breathe! Breathe!” Harry wails. You can’t die on me! Not before I've told you I love you! His mind screamed as he continued to shake his friend. 

Ron's head fell limply in his hands. NO NO NO! 

“NO!” He sobbed.

Harry looked over at Slughorn hoping for anything, but no, he only stood there mouth agape. Harry felt as thought someone had ripped his heart out, laying his head down on Ron’s chest. 

A cough. 

Ron started to cough out of nowhere and Harry felt his heart start to heal. 

“These girls are gonna be the death of me, Harry.” Ron mumbled weakly, only loud enough for him to hear. 

Letting out a breath of relief. “I thought I lost you…” Harry whispered gazing down at Ron, letting his hand rest on his chest. 

“You can't get rid of me that easily.” Ron chuckled as he placed his hand on top of Harry’s, giving it a gentle squeeze before his eyes fell shut. 

Harry didn't panic this time, because he could feel Ron’s chest rise and fall beneath his hand with each breath. 

Ron had passed out after being poisoned, so they had brought him to Madame Pomfrey, where he had been staying since the night before. And according to her he was going to be completely fine, nothing wrong whatsoever. Pomfrey even expected him to wake up at latest the next day. 

Harry felt very calm as he sat on the chair next to Ron’s hospital bed. Hermione was standing behind him, leaning one hand on his shoulder for support, and Ginny was standing at the end of the bed. Dumbledore, McGonagall and Slughorn had come in just a few minutes before to ask Harry about the incident. Harry, who had not wanted to leave Ron’s side, said that they could talk there in front of the others. 

“Quick thinking on your part, Harry. Using a bezoar. You must be very proud of your student, eh, Horace?” Dumbledore said, but Slughorn was stuck in a daze, almost in a state of shock. “Horace?” 

“Hm? Oh. Yes… very proud.” Slughorn replied. 

“I think we can all agree that Mr. Potter’s actions were heroic. The question is: why were they necessary?” McGonagall added, turning to Dumbledore. 

“Why indeed.” He agreed. Picking up the bottle in question, it was still bearing the gift wrap, though now it was torn in multiple pieces. “This appears to be a gift, Horace. You don't by chance remember who gave you this bottle, do you- which by the way, possesses remarkably subtle hints of licorice and cherry when not polluted with poison.”

“Actually I had intended to give it as a gift myself.” Slughorn answered. 

“To whom I might ask?”

“You, Headmaster.”

Just then- breaking the tension in the air - the door burst open and ran Lavender Brown. 

“Where is he? Where is my Won Won?” She wailed. Her blond hair swished behind her as she came closer to the bed, stopping next to Ginny. “Has he been asking for me?” Her expression changed from worried to stone cold daggers when her eyes found Hermione. “What’s she doing here?” 

“I could ask you the same.” Hermione fired back. 

“I happen to be his girlfriend. ”

“Yeah, and were his best friends.” Harry jumped in. He did not have it in him to try and act nice with her at the moment. 

“Don’t make me laugh. You haven’t spoken in weeks. I suppose you want to make up with him now that he is all interesting. ” Lavender said and Harry could feel the heat of his rage spread throughout him. But he didn't even have time to get himself into trouble before Hermione jumped ahead of him. 

“He's been poisoned you– you bitch! ”

“Mr. Potter!” Professor McGongall exclaimed. Harry’s own eyes went wide as well as everyone else's. He hadn’t expected himself to say such things but he was angry. 

“We’ve always cared,” Harry continued, trying to keep a level headed tone. “But you know, it’s a bit hard to talk to him when you are forcing your tongue down his throat every other minute.” 

Lavender looked like she was about to explode but Ron turned in his sleep making all their attention direct to him.  

“Ha! See? He senses my presence. I'm here Won Won. I’m he-” 

“Ry… Ha… Ha… Rry…” Ron reached out and clasped his hand around Harry’s. Harry could feel a blush making its way up his neck and across his cheeks. If only this actually meant something. 

Lavender just stood there stunned into silence before storming out. 

“Ah, to be young and feel love’s keen sting. Come on everyone, I think Mr. Weasley is well tended.” Dumbledore said, walking out and everyone except Harry and Hermione followed. 

Hermione walked around the chair and took a seat and the edge of the bed, Harry could feel her staring at him. He looked up to meet her gaze and she was wearing a bright, fond smile. Busted… 

“Don't. Say. Anything.” Harry said, sternly and she chuckled.

Well there goes that secret.

Chapter Text

The trio were sitting in the Great Hall for lunch, Harry with his nose in the book, Hermione picking at her food, and Ron who was looking over at where Lavender sat at the Ravenclaw table. It's not like the news of their breakup had upset him, it's just that he doesn't remember it. And the story he was told sounded like it was missing some parts. Though he was pretty sure his so-called friends weren't going to tell him the rest. 

“Tell me how I broke up with Lavender again?” He asked his friends. Harry looked up from the book for the first time since they got there and gave Hermione a stern look. That was weird. 

“Well,” Hermione began. “She came to visit you in the hospital. And you… talked. It wasn’t a particularly long conversation.”

“You both were there? ” Ron’s eyes went wide. “What did I say then?”

“I was– Harry wasn’t,” Hermione said quickly. Had Harry not visited him? “But it was nothing special. You said– well you said my name.” 

Harry looked as confused as he was. 

“Your name?” Ron laughed. “Why would I say your name, Hermione?”

“I don’t know.” She smiled. “But she didn’t really like that.”

“Well, I’m glad. I’m bloody thrilled to be shot of her.” 

Harry choked on his drink, making him cough like crazy. 

“ What? ” He spit out after calming down. “What do you mean you're thrilled ? I thought you were in love with her or something.” 

“In lo-in love?” Ron almost laughed while saying it. “Me, in love with Lavender? Now you’ve gone mad, Harry.”

“I’m serious, Ron. You were always off with her, what else was I supposed to think?”

Ron gave a mediocre shrug. 

“It was just nice to have someone look at me like that,” he admitted. “Like I was worth looking at, I guess. It's dumb, I know.” 

“It’s not dumb,” Hermione assured him. “Someone else is looking at you like that… I’m sure of it.” She added, taking a quick glance at Harry.

All of a sudden there was a commotion towards the entrance of the hall. At the center of it stood Katie Bell- who must've just gotten out of the infirmary -surrounded by a large group of girls. Without another word, Harry bolted towards her, taking his potion book with him. 

Almost like Hermione could sense Ron’s dislike, she said, “He’s just going to ask her about the necklace. No need to worry, Ron.”

“I know– I know. It’s not even her I have to worry about. It’s Luna.”

Hermione shakes her head. 

“You honestly think Harry likes Luna?”

“He said so himself.”

“Hm.” Hermione goes back to reading the Daily Prophet, leaving Ron confused. 

He looked back towards where Harry was standing just a second, only to see him run after none other than fucking Draco Malfoy. 

Why was it always him? Why couldn't Harry be running after me? But the next time he saw Harry, instead of being angry with him, all Ron wanted to do was hold him in his arms. This love thing was really working against him. 

”Harry… what happened?” Hermione asked him. But he didn’t respond. Not right away. Ron, along with Hermione and Ginny, watched Harry stare at his potions book, completely numb.

”I-I used a spell and I almost… I almost killed him.” 

Hermione and Ginny gasped, while Ron remained silent. No one spoke for a solid minute. It was clear that it was killing Harry and Ron couldn’t stand that. 

“But you said almost, right? He’s not dead, Harry.” 

“That’s not the point. I-I could have. And I was bloody close.” 

“It’s not your fault,” said Ron. “What spell was it anyway?”

“You wouldn't know it. I found it in the book.”

“So you're saying you found a mysterious spell in that creepy book and just decided to try it out on Malfoy? You really are thick, Harry.” Ginny scoffed. 

“I told you weeks ago that you should get rid of it. But no, no one listens to Hermione.” Hermione grumbled, crossing her arms over her chest.  

“We have to hide the book, Harry. It’s for your own good.” Ginny said, placing her hand on his arm. 

“I’ll go with you!” Ron practically yelled out. He needed to be the one going with Harry, or the possibility of him dying from jealousy was going to become a reality. 

“A-Alright,” Harry croaked.

The walk to the Room of Requirement was silent. Harry clutched the Potions book tightly and Ron only spared brief glances at him. When they enter, they’re welcomed with loads of new things they have never seen before.

“I never knew the Room of Requirement could do this…” whispered Harry.

“Neither did I,” Ron admitted. “But it seems to be a perfect spot to hide the book, don’t you think?”

Harry gave the faintest smile.

“Yeah.” 

“How do you want to do this? Do you want to— uh— just throw it and hope it doesn’t break anything?”

“You hide it.” Harry rushed out, holding out the book for Ron. 

“What? Why?”

“So we don’t break anything?”

Ron chuckled ever so lightly before taking the book from Harry’s hand, lightly blushing when their fingers grazed.

“Close your eyes then,” Ron whispered. When Harry listened, Ron could hear his friend’s breathing quiver ever so slightly (it was awfully quiet.) 

“I’ll tell you when to open.” 

Harry nodded and Ron still hadn’t moved. Something inside him seemed to be screaming at him to tell Harry something . The truth. But Ron just couldn’t. 

His lips slightly parted, almost begging Ron to close the painful distance between them and finally kiss the boy he loved . He felt himself as he leaned forward, feeling Harry's breath on his throat. But right before he could do anything he would surely regret he leaned away again. 

The way Harry stood, completely trusting Ron, made the ginger’s heart melt. Why was all of this so hard? Why couldn’t being attracted to boys and being open about it be so easy? In fact, why couldn’t being in love with Harry be so easy? 

Ron couldn’t take this ugly feeling inside of him anymore. With one quick motion, Ron ran back the way they came from, shoving the Potions book underneath a chair cushion on his way out. He briefly heard Harry call out Ron’s name, but he didn’t dare go back. 

Tears pricked his eyes as he stormed off to a secluded hallway to let himself be alone. He’ll come up with lies for Harry’s questions later. But for right now, Ron will sit with this awful feeling in his stomach, letting it slowly kill him from the inside out, little by little.

After he calmed himself down he started to walk back to the common room. The hallways were almost empty, the day was soon over and most people had most likely retreated back to their dorms. Turning right and into a new hallway, he was completely alone. Or so he thought. 

Ron shrieked (embarrassingly high) when he felt a cold hand on his shoulder. “Bloody hell…” he grumbled under his breath. It was just Ginny. “You know, you really should start wearing a bell or something.”

“No need to be rude, Ron,” Ginny chuckled, tucking her hands into her pockets. “So, did you and Harry do it?”

Ron choked on the air, his mind traveling back to the moment he almost kissed Harry. Does she also know? 

“Wh-what are you talking about?” he stumbled out. 

“The book, did you hide it?” Ron nodded, nervously. “Wait. What did you think I was saying?”

“Um.. no-nothing.” she didn't look pleased with that answer. “I-I gotta go. See you.”

“You’re not getting out of this one, Ron! I’ll figure it out!” Ginny called out as Ron hurried away. 

The trio were sitting in a small circle on the common room floor. Harry with the tiny vial of Felix Felices in his hand and the other two watching him expectantly. He quickly lifted the vial to his lips and swallowed it in one go. I definitely should get that image out of my head while I still can, Ron thought to himself. 

And lucky Hermione was able to do just that. “Well? How do you feel?” she asked Harry. 

Harry smiled. “Excellent, really excellent.”

“Now remember, Slughorn usually eats early, takes a short walk, and then returns to his office.”

“Right. I’m going down to Hagrid’s.”

“What? No Harry- you’ve got to go see Slughorn. We have a plan-” Hermione tried to reason. 

“No. I’ve got a good feeling about going to Hagrid’s. I feel like it’s the place to be tonight, know what I mean?” He spoke, his confident smile never faltering. 

“No…” Both Ron and Hermione answered at once. 

“Trust me. I know what I'm doing,” Harry reassured. “Or at least Felix does,” he added before walking out of the common room, leaving his friends sitting there confused. 

“The universe did screw up making him the chosen one ,” Hermione muttered so only Ron could hear. 

“Tell me about it.”

Harry, like a lot of the time, was being dragged on some stupidly dangerous thing by their headmaster, and Ron was very worried. He’d always been worried for his friend but it seems that the development of feelings- or more like the realization- had made his worry more persistent. 

Ron and Hermione were walking with the raven-haired boy down the halls and towards the courtyard. Ron was uncharacteristically quiet, luckily no one had made any comments about it. 

“Hermione,” Harry spoke up, disrupting the silence. “Is the room of requirement unplottable?” 

“If one wants it to be. Why?” she replied. 

“It would explain why I thought Malfoy was leaving the castle when he disappeared off the map.” Ron shook his head, of course, it's about bloody Malfoy. Though he must've said it out loud cause he looked towards his friends to see Harry lightly glaring at him. Ron shrugged and Harry went back to speaking. “He was going to the Room of Requirement.”

“Of course! That explains the vanishing cabinet.” Hermione exclaimed. 

“No,” Ron said. “I got an owl from Dad this morning. The one at Borgin & Burkes? It’s still there.”

“But I’m telling you, I saw it-” Harry’s sentence got interrupted as his eyes got caught on something in front of them. Ron looked forward and saw his idiot brothers standing there. “What if there were two of them?” 

No one said anything else as they came to a stop right before the courtyard. 

“Are you sure about this, Harry?” Hermione asked. The worry was clear in her voice. 

“Yeah, it’s not too late to back out now. You can stay with m-us. With us.” Ron added. 

“Guys, it's fine. I'll be with Dumbledore.” Harry reassured. 

Ron swallowed the lump of worry in his throat. “Well, good luck, Harry.”

“Oh, Ron, there is no need for luck,” He replied before turning around and walking away. “But thank you!” he turned to call out to them. Wearing a bright, cocky smile. 

At that moment Ron believed Harry. He really believed that everything was going to go as planned. And that everyone was going to be alright. 

Only that wasn't the case. 

Dumbledore was dead. Buried in the ground. To never be seen or heard speak again. It was over. And so was their sixth year. Standing in the astronomy tower the three friends looked out over the now almost empty courtyard. 

Hermione and Harry stood speaking quietly amongst themselves as Ron leaned against the pillar a few meters back. For a lot of people, it probably didn't make sense that their time at the school was over– for now at least– but to them, it wasn't even a question. They knew that Harry wasn't coming back. And if he wasn't going to, then neither were they. 

He walked over to his friends and leaned on the railing next to Harry. 

“I’m not gonna come back next year.” Harry declared. 

“We know,” Hermione said and Ron nodded along. “And we're coming with you.” 

“What? No-” 

“You said to us once before,” said Hermione quietly. “That there was time to turn back if we wanted to. We’ve had time, haven’t we?”

“We're with you whatever happens,” Ron added. 

“You’re both mad,” Harry said weakly with a small smile. 

“We’re friends with you, Harry.” Hermione smiled. “How could we not be?” With that, she left, giving a kiss to both Harry and Ron’s cheeks right before. 

“So…” Ron moved closer to Harry. “So how’s it going with Luna?” He stuffed his hands in his pocket, prepared to hear something awful. 

“There’s nothing going on… we’re just going to be friends. Better than anything else to say the least.” 

Holy fuck, things are actually going right in my life. I don’t need to hate Luna anymore. 

“Oh shit.” Ron tried to fight a smile that was slowly creeping up his face. “Sorry, mate.”

“No, don't worry about it, truly. And it wouldn't be fair to her, you know?” Ron looked at him confused. Harry leaned toward Ron, they were now touching from the hip to their shoulders, all the way out to the elbow. A blush decorated Harry’s brown skin, and Ron was sure he wasn't the only one. 

“Why wouldn’t it be fair?” Ron whispered. 

Harry shrugged.

“It doesn’t matter… but, besides, I have you, don’t I?”

He walked away, not even giving Ron a chance to respond.

Chapter Text

Privet Drive 4. 

A house but not a home, or at least not to anyone who mattered to Ron. The Dursleys had supposedly left about an hour ago and now multiple members of The Order -young and old- had just arrived outside the front door. The original plan had changed and Ron was wondering how long it would take for Harry to accept the changes. 

The front door was wrenched open as Harry must’ve heard the commotion. Though it had been no more than a few weeks since he saw Harry last, Ron couldn't help it as his breath hitched in  his throat at the sight of him. 

Black curls splayed perfectly over his forehead, green eyes shining and his clothes just that perfect morning messy. Oh how Ron wished he could just run up to the boy and snogg the shit out of him. 

Hermione rushed forward embracing the raven haired boy. Even in such dark times their faces were still covered in bright smiles. They slowly let go of each other and Harry quickly stepped up to Ron wrapping his arms around his shoulders. Ron returned the hug, gripping onto Harry’s waist tightly. This will have to do. Even if Harry will never feel for me the way I do, I can survive if it is like this. He rested his chin on Harry’s head for a minute before they let go of each other. 

Entering the house, everyone, except Mad-Eye, gave their greetings to Harry. One after another gave a quick chat or hugged him and Ron watched as Harry’s warm smile stood out over all of them. Everyone then remained in a place, quietly conversing with one another. 

“Kingsley, I thought you were looking after the Muggle Prime Minister?” Harry called out across the room as he finally joined them. 

“He can get along without me for one night,” said Kingsley. “You’re more important.” That was something Ron could agree with. 

Harry then walked over to Ron and Hermione were off to the side. He stood close to Ron, clearly trying to hide whatever nerves he was feeling about all of this. 

“Harry!” Sirius's loud voice boomed through the small living space. Behind him was a very tired but happy looking Remus who rested a gentle hand on his shoulder. “Guess what!” Sirius, who looked happier than Ron has ever seen him, held out his hand. In front of the trio was a simple but beautiful ring perfectly wrapped around Sirius’ left ring finger. 

“You’re engaged!” Harry yelped which overlapped with Ron and Hermiones’ exclaims of happiness for the couple. 

“Yes, I’m sorry we didn't tell you sooner.” Remus jumped in, wrapping an arm around his now fiance’s waist.

“That’s brilliant! Congrat-” 

“All right, all right! You’ll all have time for a cozy catch-up later! We’ve got to get the hell out of here, and soon!” Mad Eye’s voice echoed throughout the room and everyone else fell silent. He dropped some unknown sacks at his feet and turned toward Harry. “Potter, you’re underage, which means you’ve still got the Trace on you.”

“The trace?” Harry asked. 

“The Trace, the Trace!” said Mad Eye impatiently. “The charm that detects magical activity around under-seventeens, the way the Ministry finds out about underage magic! If you, or anyone around you, casts a spell to get you out of here, Thicknesse is going to know about it, and so will the Death Eaters.” Ron, having already heard this, could only think about how patience was not one thing Moody was known for. “We can’t wait for the Trace to break, because the moment you turn seventeen you’ll lose all the protection your mother gave you.”

“So what’s the plan?” 

Mad-Eye explained to Harry how his mother’s charm would break when Harry comes of age or when he no longer called this place a home. He told Harry, what Ron and everyone else already knew, that Harry would be going to Tonks’ parents with Hagrid and then through a Portkey to The Burrow. 

“Any questions?” Mad-Eye asked at the end of his explanation. 

 “Yes,” said Harry. “Maybe they won’t know which of the twelve secure houses I’m heading for at first, but won’t it be sort of obvious once fourteen of us fly off towards Tonks’s parents’?” 

“Ah,” said Moody. “I forgot to mention the key point. Fourteen of us won’t be flying to Tonks’s parents. There will be seven Harry Potters moving through the skies tonight, each of them with a companion, each pair heading for a different safe house.”

This was the part Ron had worried about Harry’s reaction to. Moody reached down into the sack by his feet and pulled out a flask filled with Polyjuice potion. 

“No!” Harry’s voice boomed throughout the room. “Absolutely not!” 

“I told you he’d take it well.” Hermione deadpanned which made Ron chuckle under his breath. 

“There is no way I'm letting you risk your lives for me–”

“Cause we’ve never done that before, have we?” Ron said and Harry turned to him. Immediately he saw the terror in Harry’s eyes which made Ron heartache. This was something that they had to do, but seeing Harry so concerned still hurt. 

“This is different! Taking that, becoming me. No–” Harry’s eyes never left Ron’s as he spoke. 

“Well, none of us really fancy it, mate,” Fred started; Harry finally turned around facing the others. 

“Yeah, imagine if something went wrong and we were stuck as scrawny, specky gits forever.” George added. Fred high fived him sneakily.  

“Everyone here’s of age, Potter, and they’ve all agreed to take the risk.” Moody said. Everyone nodded in agreement. “Now, Granger, as discussed.”

Hermione reached over and grabbed a chunk of Harry’s hair and pulled, managing to get a few pieces of hair. 

“Blimey, Hermione!” Harry yelped, holding his hand to his head. 

“Straight in here, if you would.” Moody held out the flask and Hermione dropped in the hairs. 

Ron stepped up to get a closer look. “Ooh, you look much tastier than Crabbe and Goyle, Harry,” said Ron before he could stop himself. He felt a blush rise up his neck. Oh no. Hermione gave him a weird look, one that said oh really, do tell. “Oh, you know what I mean, Goyle’s potion looked like bogies.” he didn't dare turn to look at Harry, he was mortified enough. 

All six people who were about to become honorary Potter’s stepped up and formed a line. And everyone drinks up. First George, then Fred, then Ron, then Hermione, then Fleur and lastly a not so happy looking Mundungus. 

The familiar feeling of the potion washed over him and he felt himself shrink. 

“Wow, we're identical!” the twins exclaimed. Still standing in their old clothes which were looking rather oversized at that moment. 

“Not yet you aren’t.” Moody once again reached into the sack and pulled out seven identical outfits for them all. 

“Don’t you have something a bit more sporty, don't you?” Fred asked, inspecting the shirt in front of him. 

“Yeah, I don't fancy this color at all.” George chimed in. 

“Fancy this: you’re not you, so shut it and strip.” Mad Eye snapped at the twins before facing Harry. “You’ll need to change too, Potter.” 

And everyone obeyed. No one seemed to question their lack of privacy since this wasn’t their own body they were showing off. Well, all except two. Harry since it was his body being poked and prodded by all. And Ron, who’s cheeks were a strong contender for the reddest part of his body. Of course he was a blushing mess. He was literally undressing Harry, or well himself as Harry. But it was still Harry’s body. 

He carefully peeled away the layers of clothing trying to not look too closely at the boy beneath them. The world really was both against him and on his side today. He made the mistake of looking up while trying to avoid looking at himself. Because right then he met Harry’s eyes from across the room. At least he thought it was the real Harry. His eyesight really was awful and Ron couldn’t tell which Harry was Harry. For obvious reasons. 

The time from mounting his broom to the easy landing on the ground back home from the Portkey was a blur. He remembered the jets of light from spells and curses, loud cackles from Bellatrix Lestrange, and the strong worry for Harry. 

People were running out of the Burrow, but Ron only cared for Harry who had rushed over to him. Relief flooded Ron as they welcomed each other in open arms, Harry’s wrapped around Ron’s waist while Ron’s were around Harry’s neck. 

“You’re alive,” Harry breathed out. A different set of arms that belonged to Hermione wrapped around Ron and he quickly welcomed them. 

“Thank merlin, we all made it.” Ron muttered into Harry’s hair. 

“I thoug–-I thought you…” Harry’s words died out but he already knew what he was saying. 

“Breathe, Harry, breathe.”

Hermione took a step back but the boys still weren't letting go. She walked over to Tonks and checked on her instead. 

“Ron was great.” Tonks said as Ron and Harry finally let go of each other, only leaving their hands linked. If Ron was so caught up in the adrenaline then he would've been a blushing maniac at that moment. “Wonderful. Stunned one of the Death Eaters, straight to the head, and when you’re aiming at a moving target from a flying broom-”

“You did?” asked Hermione.

“Always the tone of surprise, Granger.” Ron shook his head with a light smile. “Are we the last back?” 

“No,” said Ginny. Ron, having been caught up hwith Harry, had honestly not even noticed her until now. “We’re still waiting for Bill and Fleur and Mad-Eye and Mundungus. I’m going to tell Mum and Dad you’re okay, Ron.” She ran off towards the house. 

“So what kept you? What happened?” Remus almost growled at Sirius, but he only chuckled. 

“Well My Moon, I just wanted to have a nice little reunion with my cousin Bella.” Sirius explained. Even from far away you’d be able to see the way Remus’s face lit up at the pet name. 

“She wanted us just as much as she wanted Harry. She really tried to kill us but alas, here we are.” Tonks added. “So what happened to you lot?”

Everyone went around explaining what happened to them and the others still hadn’t shown up. 

Both of his parents and Ginny had come racing over to them, nearly tackling Ron in a hug. They then turned towards the couple and Tonks. 

“Thank you,” his mum said. “For our sons.”

“Don't be silly, Molly.” reassured Tonks. 

“How’s George?” asked Remus. 

Wait what? George? 

“What’s wrong with George?” Ron managed to get out. 

“He’s lost-” Molly’s words were cut off as a Thestral came out of nowhere and landed a few meters away from them. Bill and Fleur slipped off, windswept but unhurt. Bill hurried up to his father, leaning on him. 

“Mad Eye’s dead.” 

They had just sat down in the living room, and had been discussing the situation. Everyone was upset, Tonks the most who’d been quite close to him. 

“You-Know-Who acted exactly as Mad Eye expected him to,” sniffed Tonks. “Mad Eye said he expects the real Harry to be with the toughest Aurors. He chased Mad-Eye first, and when Mundungus gave them away he switched to Kingsley. . . . ”

“Yes, and that’s all very good,” snapped Fleur, “but still does not explain how they knew we were moving ’Arry tonight, does it? Somebody must have been careless. Somebody let slip the date to an outsider. It is the only explanation for them knowing the date but not the ’ole plan.” She glared around the room, it was clear she didn't trust everyone there. 

“No,” Harry said out loud. “I mean . . . if somebody made a mistake,” Harry spoke a little more carefully. “And let something slip, I know they didn’t mean to do it. It’s not their fault, ” he repeated. “We’ve got to trust each other. I trust all of you, I don’t think anyone in this room would ever sell me to Voldemort.” 

“Well said, Harry,” it was Fred who spoke up.

“Yeah, ’ear, ’ear,” said George, earring a snicker from his brother. 

“You think I’m a fool?” Harry looked straight at Lupin when speaking. 

“No, I think you’re like James,”  he said. “Who would have regarded it as the height of dishonor to mistrust his friends.” Sirius grabbed his fiance's hand, a calming motion. 

Harry stormed off and Ron followed. 

“You can't leave me!” Ron called out to Harry when he found him pacing just outside the house. “I-I mean us. You can’t leave us.” His voice is now quieter, more shy. 

Harry turned around to face him. “If I stay you're all in danger! I can’t be the reason more people get hurt!” Harry sat down on the steps with his head in his hands. 

Ron walked over and sat down next to him. Wrapping an arm around his shoulders as they shook with tears and pulled him close.

“Harry it's not your fault.” he spoke softly. “They chose to fight, you didn't make them do anything.”

Harry didn't answer, he didnt even lift his head. Ron softly took Harry's chin and tilted his head up. 

“Hey look at me,” Harry did just that, looking straight into Ron’s eyes. “It's not your fault.” 

They sat like that for a long time, just holding onto each other, not saying much. They didn’t go back inside until Harry’s breathing had leveled and they were both ready. 

Chapter Text

“Are you going to tell Harry?” Fred asked as he, George, and Ron made their way out to help set up for Bill and Fleur’s wedding. Ron, who had just enjoyed an amazing meal, suddenly felt sick. 

“Tell him what?” Ron rushed out. 

“That you’re in love with him of course,” George added. Ron opened his mouth but Fred held up his hand to shush him. 

“The only ones who don’t know are Mum and Dad. Plus, even though drunk, you kissed. Honestly Ronny, you should really hide it better.”

“What the bloody hell are you talking about?” Ron scoffed even though he was starting to feel overheated. 

“We’ve known since last Christmas,” said George. “It’s adorable.”

“It’s– It’s not true! I’m not even–”

“Ron. ” Fred and George stopped in front of him, staring down at him. Ron suddenly felt so small. “We don’t care what you are.”

“WhatIam?” He rushed out. 

“If you’re gay– bisexual– whatever, ” said George. “Frankly, I think I might be too. Girl or boy, we’re here to pick on you for whatever crush you have.”

“Especially if it’s Harry bloody Potter.” Fred smirked. 

“He doesn’t–” He let out a rough sigh. “Don’t be prats!” He pushed them out of the way and walked over to their father and Hagrid who were struggling to put up the tent. The three brothers help as much as they can. But in the middle of it, the Minister of Magic approached. Ron then soon found himself sitting on the couch with Harry and Hermione, receiving an item that takes and gives back light that was left for him in Dumbledore’s will. Hermione received a child’s book while Harry received the first snitch he ever caught. Ron thought that was very sentimental. 

“You can’t win this war on your own,” said the Minister of Magic. “He’s too strong.”

“I’m not alone,” Harry replied smoothly.

The evening had finally bestowed itself and Ron found himself staring at himself in the bathroom mirror. He suddenly felt insecure about how he looked. As if his scars were screaming and could be seen by everyone when in reality they’re hidden away behind his hand me down suit. He let out a heavy sigh, quickly deciding staring at himself won’t get him anywhere, and made his journey downstairs where Harry was waiting for him. 

“You look… dashing,” Harry said. Ron felt a blush creep up on him so he looked away quickly. 

“I look like the rest of my brothers.”

“Your brothers aren’t as attractive as you are.”

“Wh–what?” Ron spluttered. 

“N–Nothing. Sorry– nothing.” Harry huffed with an awkward smile. Ron's never seen him so embarrassed. “It’s just… a wedding– I’ve never been.”

“No, wait, you think I’m attractive?” Ron asked quietly. His heart raced at the thought of Harry thinking of him as attractive. Especially when Ron didn’t think he was himself. 

“Of course you are, Ron!” But Harry’s smile dropped when he noticed Ron’s sad facial expression. “You don’t– You don’t think you are?”

“No– what– I know I’m okay looking,” Ron said nervously.

“You’re more than okay looking, Ron!” Harry took a few steps closer to him. 

Ron couldn’t take his eyes off him even though he wanted to. His eyes traced Harry’s scar and then roamed down to his lips that were slightly parted. Everything in Ron was screaming to run because all of this was hurting too much. 

“You’re… beautiful.”

“Stop–” Ron stepped back, suddenly feeling overwhelmed. “Don’t say things like that. Not to me.”

“But–”

“Please,” he whispered. “Just don’t…” He went to walk past him, but Harry placed a firm hand on his arm to keep him in his spot. 

“Ron, I–”

“Let go of me–”
“I didn’t mean anything by bad it!” Harry rushed out. “I didn’t– you are beautiful– I’m not making fun of you or– or anything.”

“Harry, let go of me,” he whispered, voice quivering. 

“You are beautiful, Ron. You're more beautiful than most. Then– Then everyone.”

“Harry, stop.” Ron ripped Harry’s hand off his arm. This was hurting him more than he could ever imagine. “I’m– I’m not beautiful.”

“ Ron–”

“I’m not,” he repeated more firmly. “Just stop saying that I am.”

“I won’t stop saying it until you believe it!” Harry replied stubbornly. “I hate seeing you be so hard on yourself.”

“And you care all of a sudden ? ” He snapped, which wasn’t his intention. 

“I’ve always cared!” Ron scoffed which Harry clearly didn’t appreciate. “I have. I care for you Ron. And hearing you tell yourself you’re not attractive hurts because you’re the most stunning person I’ve ever met.”

“Stop–”

“No, fuck off, I’m not stopping!”

“I’m leaving.”

“Don’t!”

Ron took one step before Harry grabbed his arm again and spun him around and pulled him close so their chests were touching. Ron wanted to push Harry back and scream at him for being so annoying but those green eyes were staring up at him and he felt a sudden wave of sadness. 

“But you don’t get it! You're hurting me.”

“Like you’ve never hurt me before?” Harry scoffed but Ron could see the heartache in his eyes. 

“If you’re referring to fourth year–”

“No, I’m not referring to that!” He snapped. “I’m referring to you and Lavender! Constantly showing off how a perfect match you both were.”

“No. Don't go and make this about you. Merlin, you’re always making everything about yourself. Like we get it, you're the chosen one.”

“I’m not trying to make it about me! I’m trying to– fuck I don’t know what I’m trying to do! All I know is that you make me want to be around you all the time but I hate being around you because it– it hurts too.”  

“Wonderful.” It felt like Ron had been casted with a curse to the heart. “It’s nice to know we hurt each other.”

One final time, Ron turned to leave, his heart broken completely. He finally knew the truth. Ron had somehow been hurting Harry all this time when Ron all has ever done was love him. He should have seen this coming. 

He made it to the door when a pair of hands spun him around and pinned him to the door. Oh no. The sadness in the emerald eyes had now been replaced by something Ron could only describe as fire . 

“ Harry –” But whatever words he was about to say died when Harry’s lips crashed against his own. All Ron wanted to do was give in and relish in this moment but he knew this song too well. This was just like the party. A kiss that meant nothing to Harry but everything to Ron. No. He wouldn't let this happen. 

He gathered all the force he had and pushed Harry off. 

“What are you doing?” Ron screamed as tears started to well in his eyes. 

“Ron, I’m–”

“Fuck. You.”

“Can’t you see what I’m trying to tell you?!” Harry half sobbed, half yelled. “I fucking love you. I’ve always loved you!”

Nononononono. No! The tears were now streaming down his face and dripping into his hands. Of course this would happen to him of all people. The world really had a way of screwing up his life. Feeling himself slipping he grounded his feet into the ground, gripping onto the closest thing in reach. Which just happens to be Harry’s arm, of course. As soon as he realized he snatched his hands back and tried to calm his breathing. The fire had been put out by the worry and Ron almost scoffed. 

“No, stop it, Harry. This is not some funny joke, okay? You don't love me, you never have.” Ron sneered at him, his throat raw from crying. “You love Luna. Don’t lie to me.” 

“ What ? Oh god, Ron, I never loved Luna. It’s always been you, only you.” Harry chuckled but it sounded almost hysterical. “I don’t even know how you feel about me– this was all a mistake.”

“Don’t!” Ron snapped as he breathed heavily. “D-Don’t call it a mistake.”

“But it is, isn’t it? You don’t love me back–”

“Harry, just shut up for a second!” Ron pushed past him, trying his hardest to keep his breathing from escalating. “You… you actually love me?”

“Yes,” Harry answered meekly. 

“W-Why?” He looked back at him as tears poured down his face. “How could you love me ?”

“How could I not?” Harry moved closer to him. He raised a hand and Ron flinched at the gentle touch on his cheek that wiped his tears away. “You're perfect. And there is no one else I'd want to be with in the world.” 

Ron was always one to think with his heart not his head. With everything but this. He always used his head with his feelings toward Harry and never acted on it. All thoughts of worry melted away like the winter snow in spring because for once Ron was feeling hopeful.

“ Fuck it. ”

It was his turn to crash his lips against Harry’s and this, this was everything and all he’s ever dreamed of. Harry’s hands traveled from Ron’s face to his hair, pulling him as close as possible to the point where their chests were pressed together. Ron grabbed hold of his hips, digging his fingers into the fabric of the pants making Harry let out a low groan. 

Kissing Harry felt like finally finding peace after years of chaos. Not all the metaphors in the world could truly explain how it felt. 

Eventually, it’s Harry who pulled away first. 

“We– We have to get to the wedding.” Harry whispered but Ron was in a slight haze. He was too wrapped up in Harry’s beauty; lips red and swollen, and pupils blown wide. Ron guessed he didn't look much different. 

“What wedding?” Ron asked dumbly. 

“Your brother’s wedding!” Harry laughed. “We’ve probably missed the actual reception.”

“But– you– I–”

“Come on, love.” Ron immediately melted at the pet name. Harry brought his hand up to his cheek and placed a chaste kiss on the lips. “We can talk about– I don’t know– us afterwards.”

The word us echoed in Ron’s mind. Was this possible? That the two of them could become something during this war? 

“Okay.” Ron nodded with a wide smile. “We’ll talk about us afterwards.”

Harry’s smile could light up the whole room. Ron, like a moth to a flame, followed Harry out to the tent where the wedding was being held. But as Ron was about to walk in, Harry held him back. 

“We can’t walk in,” Harry whispered. 

“Why?” Ron whispered back. 

“They’re in the middle of it–”

“Oh bloody hell, Mum is going to be so mad.”

“Well missing the first bit of it was worth it. I got to snog you.”

“Not so loud, Harry!” Ron squeaked. 

“Right– sorry.” He grinned sheepishly. 

After impatiently waiting for everyone to rise to their feet and clap for the newlyweds, Ron and Harry snuck in from behind and joined the applause as if they were there the whole time. 

“Where were you guys?” Hermione was the first to ask as the party started.

“Searching for my tie,” Ron said while Harry’s words, “The loo,” overlapped. 

Hermione’s eyes narrowed. “Where were you really?”

“Nowhere!” Ron said nervously. “No more questions, ‘Mione, we’re trying to have some fun.”

“Fine. I won’t scold you, but your Mum will.”

“I’ll deal with that later.” 

“Hermione!” Ginny came walking over to the three of them with a bright smile. “You look beautiful.”

“Oh!” Hermione’s face turned a bright red. “Thank you, Ginny. You look stunning as well.”

“T-Thanks.”

Ron raised an eyebrow at the interaction between the two girls. There was nothing out of the ordinary by it but it was the fact that the last time Ginny looked flustered was when she first met Harry. And he’s never seen Hermione look so lost before. 

“Is everything alright?” Harry asked. He must have picked up on the strange behaviors too. 

“Yes!” Hermione said a bit hotly. “Oh look! It’s Viktor!” Without another word, Hermione scurried off to the Quidditch player. Ginny scoffed before walking to the other side of the tent, starting a conversation with a relative. 

“Girls are weird,” Ron said which made Harry laugh. “Merlin, I love your laugh, Harry.”

“Ron!” the Gryffindor blushed furiously. “You can’t say stuff like that here!”

“I know. I know I just…” He stepped closer to him. He glanced around briefly. Everyone was in their own world, not paying attention to the two boys at all. “I wish we didn’t have to be here… I want to tell you so many things–”

“I know, love.” And there was that pet name that had Ron weak in the knees. Harry secretly reached for Ron’s hand and gently squeezed it. It was Ron’s turn to blush furiously. His chest filled with butterflies as Harry stared up at him. To everyone else, he might look like he’d always done, but Ron could see the way a slight blush still lingered on his cheeks and the way his curls were a different kind of messy than usual. He looked perfect. Like a dream. “The first thing we’ll do once this is over is talk, I promise.”

“You both finally admit your feelings?” Ron and Harry jumped apart from each other when a gentle voice spoke. Behind Ron stood Luna in a bright yellow dress and curly hair nicely done. “It’s about time I think. The pining has been awful.”

“You– you knew?” Harry gaped. 

“Of course I did!” She smiled. “I tried to do my best to distance myself from you Harry but I think I failed. I hope you don’t dislike me anymore, Ron.” The two boys were speechless. The Ravenclaw seemed pleased with herself because she walked away with a bright smile.

“A clever one she is,” muttered Ron, and Harry chuckled softly before his eyes were drawn away to an old man. Ron watched Harry’s facial expression fall into a more serious one. 

“What’s wrong?” Ron asked quickly. 

“That man knew Dumbledore,” Harry motioned with his eyes and Ron glanced over to where Harry was looking. Harry turned to Ron with an apologetic look. “I need to go talk to him.” 

Ron nodded, giving Harry’s hand a comforting squeeze like the boy had done for him earlier. It was clear Harry didn't want to leave, but Ron could also see the need to talk to the man. “Go on,” he smiled down at the boy. “Find me later.” 

It had been a while since Harry had left him to go talk to that man, and though Ron hadn't seen him since then it was almost as if he could feel his presence. Always there and always a comforting feeling of home.

He’d been walking around the venue talking to a lot of different people, mostly family members he hadn't seen in years and truly couldn't remember for the life of him. Like now. He was stuck in a never-ending conversation with someone who was claiming to be an old family friend. Though he could have sworn he’d never seen the woman before. 

“Definitely.” Ron said. Honestly, he hadn't been listening to the conversation for a while now, but he always made sure to add some vague comments here and there. 

And just when he was sure he would doze off he felt a hand on his arm. He smiled thinking it was Harry but it faltered (only a little) when he saw Hermione next to him. 

“Mind if I steal Ronald from you?” said Hermione. “He owes me a dance.” They excused themselves and headed over to the dance floor. Their song was quite slow and there were only a few other people dancing next to them. 

“What? Not pleased to see me, Ron?” she asked with a hint of humor in her voice. 

“No, of course I am. I just thought–”

“You thought I was Harry.” He nodded as they continued to sway to the beat, realization made him stop in his tracks. 

“Wait what? How did you know?”

“Oh come one Ronald, I'm not thick.” she said and Ron acted confused. “You're not even wearing a tie.” a bright red blush spread throughout Ron’s entire face and neck. “I’m just relieved you two finally did something about it. The tension was killing me.” Ron laughed.

“So, do you want to tell me what’s going on with you and Ginny?” he asked, making Hermione go very quiet. Which he thought to be curious. Hermione was never the quiet type, only when she was studying. It was strange to see her look flustered and confused for once. 

“Um, well, so…” Ron just looked at her, impatiently waiting for an answer. “Would you mind getting us some drinks?”

“Sure.” He chuckled. “But you’re not getting out of this. I will know!” Ron left to get their drinks, only to be stopped at least five times to have a quick chat with distant relatives. He finally gets to the table when Sirius approaches him. 

“Ron, how are you?”

“Er– I’m fine?”

“That’s good.” He leaned closer, which made Ron’s eyebrows furrow. Sirius had a look on his face that meant he knew something. “There’s something happening between you and Harry, isn’t there.” Ron’s mouth dropped open. Were Ron and Harry really that obvious? “Look, I won’t say anything. Harry hasn’t even told me he likes blokes. But let me tell you– as his godfather– I must tell you that if you hurt him you’ll regret it.”

“Right. I don’t plan on doing that,” he said with as much confidence he could muster. Of course, he never wanted to hurt Harry, but what if he accidentally does? If Ron says or does the wrong thing it’ll be Harry leaving him. Not the other way around. “Goodbye, Sirius.” He shuffled through the crowd and almost getting to Hermione, his mum stopped him. 

“Hello dearie. Where are the others?”

“Well, the drinks are for me and Hermione and um I haven't seen Harry in a little while. He’ll find me sooner or later.” She wore one of those smiles that said a thousand words without uttering a single one as she looked up at her son. 

“You know I don’t mind-” her words died down as the already brightly lit space became illuminated by a bright silver light. A patronus.

Ron turned to look at it directly as it opened its mouth to speak.

“The Ministry has fallen. Scrimgeour is dead. They are coming.” it repeated over and over and over and over again. 

His mum's face was stricken with fear as she hurried over to her husband, leaving Ron standing there on his own. 

It took a few seconds for the reality of it all to settle in. I need to find him. The drinks previously in his hands dropped to the floor, shattering everywhere. Ron didn't care. He had to find them. They had to get out of there. 

Panic flooded the room as people started to apparate away to safety, Ron could see Remus and Sirius throw around protective charms as the innocent people were replaced by hooded figures wearing masks; death eaters. 

He started to run, avoiding hexes left and right as he made his way through the crowd. Finding Harry and Hermione standing with their hands interlocked, looking around frantically. 

“Ron!” he heard one of them call out, or was it both of them? It didn't matter. He threw himself forward, catching himself on Harry’s shoulders. 

Relief filled him as the emerald eyes found him. And just for a quick moment he almost forgot what was happening around them. However, he’s brought back just as quickly by Hermione apparating them out of there. 

Ron shivered as the cool evening breeze swept over them, he had no idea where they were. He looked at Harry who looked just as lost as he felt.

He turned to Hermione. “Where are we?”

“Shaftesbury Avenue. I used to come here to the theater with my mum and dad. Just popped into my head. I don’t know why...” A group of drunken men stumbling out of a bar must've set their eyes on them. They started to whistle at Hermione, still in her dress from the wedding. “Fucking wankers,” she said. Harry stepped around her separating her from the men. 

They started walking down the street, mostly following Hermionie who seemed to know where she was going. She grabbed both their hands pulling them into an empty alley. 

“We need to change,” she stated, pulling out her purse and rummaging through it. Pulling out three sets of regular muggle clothes. 

“How the ruddy-” Ron was very lost now. 

“Undetectable extension charm.” 

“Bloody amazing, Hermione.”

“Always the tone of surprise,” she said, giving the bad a good shake, a muffled sound coming from the bad as if something had fallen over. “That’ll be the books…” Ron almost laughed at that. “There’s a cafe near us. We’ll go there and figure out what to do next.”

Entering the eerie cafe, Ron sat beside Harry and, hesitant, reached for Harry’s hand. The other noticed and without hesitation, grabbed it and placed it in his lap. Hermione noticed and hid a smile by looking away.

“Do you reckon everyone’s alright at the wedding? Maybe we should–”

“They were after you, Harry. We’d just put everyone in danger going back.”

“Ron’s right. Cappuccino, please.” A waitress stood beside them. Ron, who had no idea what a cappuccino was, agreed to one and so did Harry “So where do we go from here? Leaky Cauldron?” 

“Too dangerous. If Voldemort’s taken over the Ministry, none of the old places are safe.” Ron said. 

“My stuff. All my things–” began Harry. 

“They’re all with me,” said Hermione, nodding to her bag. “I’ve had the essentials packed for days. Just in case.”

“You couldn’t have packed me better pants?” Ron sighed. He earned a glare from Hermione. And then, Harry shouted, pulling Ron to the ground roughly. Ron’s head hit the table as he pulled out his wand in one swift motion. The light beside him exploded, the glass falling all over him. 

“Stupefy!” Harry yelled. Ron watched from under the table as someone fell to the ground. He hadn’t even noticed two Death Eaters walk in. Is this how it was supposed to be now? Having to be on constant alert? 

Ron casted a silent Stunning Charm at the same moment Hermione cried the Body–Binding curse. The remaining Death Eater toppled over the moment the waitress walked out. 

“Go!” Hermione said and she listened. Harry flicked his wand and the blinds went down. With the gift from Dumbledore, Ron dimmed the lights that weren’t damaged already.  

 He, being absolutely angry, stomped over to him. He recognized the first one from the wanted posters. Antonin Dolohov. The other he wasn’t sure. 

“What are we going to do with you, eh?” Ron almost spat on him. “Kill us if it was turned around, wouldn’t you?”

“Ron…” Harry looked at him with slight concern but Ron was too angry to notice. 

“Suppose it’s him that did Mad Eye. How would you feel then?” he heard Hermione take a sharp breath behind him. 

“It’s better we wipe their memories,” said Harry. “If we kill them, then they’ll know we were here.”

“Who says they don't already?” 

“Ron.” Harry repeated but this time more firm and Ron nodded. 

“Alright, you’re the boss.” he took a step back. “Though I never got the hang of the memory charm. Hermione?”

She looked a little dazed but nodded before stepping forward and raising her wand. 

“Obliviate.”

Chapter Text

Grimmauld Place was cold. Not because it was late and the sun had sunk below the horizon hours ago, but because it was empty. The rooms were still furnished, but it was all empty. Everything was too still, too quiet, and cold. It was all cold. Like an empty shell of what once had been. If this place had ever been. 

After getting past the wards set up for Snape and exploring the house the trio finally settled down in some room with a couch and empty space on the floor to sleep on. 

Ron looked over at Harry, he was pale as he stood there staring down at the floor and looked rather nauseous. Ron reached over placing a calming touch on his arm, he snapped his eyes up to meet Ron’s. 

“Uh, I'm gonna find the bathroom.” he said quickly before rushing off. 

Ron looked at Hermione but she just shrugged. He decided to give Harry some space before going after him. 

“He’s probably just tired,” Hermione spoke up. She’d taken a seat on the couch and was fiddling with her bag. “It’s been a long day.” 

“I know but…” Ron didn't want to know. He wanted this day to never have happened. But at the same time this day was what he’d been waiting on for so long. He felt conflicted. Guilty. For being happy that the day had happened. “He kissed me.” 

Hermione's head shot up. 

“I mean he actually kissed me and I was so happy and then…” his words died down. 

Ron didn't notice Hermione getting up until she was standing right in front of him. 

“Then everything fell apart.” she finished. 

Trying to find a specific room in this house was like hell, and almost impossible. After having tried what felt like a million different doors he finally found the one. He knocked on the white door and heard shuffling on the other side of it but no answer. He knocked again. 

“Yeah?” Harry said. 

“Are you alright in there?” 

Instead of answering, Harry unlocked the door and Ron stepped inside, closing the door behind him. He was standing in front of the sink staring into it. 

“Sorry for running off, it was just…” 

“Too much?” Harry nodded and turned to face Ron, leaning with his back against the sink. Grabbing one of Ron’s hands he started to play with his fingers, mindlessly. Ron squeezed his hand making Harry look up at him with those big, bright, beautiful, emerald eyes that he so loves. He could look into Harry’s eyes forever and never be bored. “You know, it's not your fault. I mean all of this, it’s not your fault.” 

“But-”

Ron connected their lips in a sweet kiss to shut him up. Unlike their first which was fueled by desire and anger, this kiss was tender, slow, and caring. Harry brought his hand to Ron’s cheek, pulling him closer if that were possible; Ron melted at the touch.  

They slowly pulled away from the kiss. Nothing could ever compete with the high Ron felt looking into Harry’s dazed gaze after having just kissed him. 

“No buts. It's not your fault.” Ron spoke firmly. “Okay?”

“Ron–”

“ Okay? ”

“…Okay.” 

Ron woke up in the middle of the night to a frantic Hermione shaking him. He quickly came to when he saw how scared she was, jumping to his feet and asking what was wrong. Before she could even answer he had looked around to see the space where Harry had been lying asleep earlier was empty. 

“Where is he?” Ron had asked before they were both searching the house. 

It felt like hours had passed until Hermione finally found him. Ron practically sprinted to the floor above. He found Hermione standing over an exhausted Harry, lecturing him about disappearing. 

 Ron thought he deserved it. 

“You're such an idiot, you know that right?” said Ron. 

“Yes,” he answered a little too quickly. “But look at what I found.”

In his hands were two separate pieces of paper.  Hermione takes one while Harry hands Ron the other. In his hand was a photograph of baby Harry flying around on a toy broom. 

“Oh Harry…” he could hear the pity in Hermione's voice. She handed the letter to Ron. It was from his mother to Sirius.

“I was trying to find the rest of the letter,” Harry explained as he rummaged around the floor. 

“You won’t find it,” a familiar voice said. Standing in the doorway was Sirius and Remus. “I lost it.”

“Sirius–” Harry was quick to his feet, embracing his godfather in a tight hug. “I was worried you might have been killed–”

“You can’t get rid of me that easily, Harry.” He returned the embrace. 

Ron felt a sad smile tug at his lips watching the two of them. He was relieved too that Sirius and Lupin were alive but it brought a sort of panic through his body that possibly his own family weren’t. 

“Professor Lupin, have-” Ron rushed out desperately. 

Lupin shook his head solemnly. “We haven't heard anything yet.” 

“But hey, no news is better than bad news,” Hermione’s hand on his shoulder grounded him. She is right , he decided. He would try to be optimistic for the time being.  

They all walked back into the room that the trio had been sleeping in. Ron purposefully put himself next to Harry, making sure their knees brushed against each other. Distance was not what either of them needed right now. 

Sirius–who knew his way around the house –had fixed them some tea. It was nice, though it did nothing against the cold. 

“Sirius, Remus,” Hermione started, it was strange hearing her refer to Lupin as Remus. Ron thought about how he would probably never get used to it. “Do you know the initials–”

“Hermione,” Harry said sharply. 

“It doesn’t matter if Dumbledore left this just for us. We need all the help, Harry.” She looked back at the two adults. “Do the initials R.A.B mean anything to either of you?

Sirius went completely still, looking off into who knows where, pale like he’d seen a ghost. Remus grabbed Sirius’s free hand lying on his lap and squeezed it. Leaning in and whispering something in his ear making Sirius relax immediately. 

“Um ye-yes they do.” Sirius finally said. “Why?” It was not often that Ron felt Sirius not trusting them. It was strange to see him look guarded and skeptical. 

Hermione rushed up off her seat on the floor and charged for her bag. Taking a few minutes of rummaging through it before pulling out what Ron recognised as the locket. 

She walked over to the adults, placing the locket into Remus’s waiting hand. 

“Open it,” said Harry. 

Remus opened it carefully, taking out the small note. Reading it, he simply frowned and passed it over to Sirius. Ron watched Sirius' stone face soften to one of millions of emotions. He watched the other reread the letter countless times before setting it down. A few tears streamed down his face and Hermione conjured a tissue for him.

“Thank you,” Sirius whispered and used it. “R.A.B stands for Regulus Arcturus Black.” Remus’ hand reached for his and gently squeezed it. “He was my brother.”

Chapter Text

After Sirius had told them that R.A.B was in fact his brother he’d taken them up to Regulus’s old room, thinking that the real locket might have been hidden there. 

The room was smaller than Sirius and completely different in decoration. Walls decorated with everything emerald and silver, even the Black family crest hanging above the bed. It was hard to imagine someone so closely related to Sirius living like this. Though it shouldn’t surprise him since it was Sirius that was the black sheep and not Regulus.  

They searched everywhere but there was no luck. Even trying multiple summoning spells, nothing worked. 

“This doesn’t make sense,” muttered Sirius. “Regulus was just another copy of my parents and everyone else in my deranged family. I don’t understand how he could do something like this…” A beat of silence before he let out a a noise of triumph that startled Ron. “Kreacher must know something! KREACHER!”

The house elf apparated in front of them. He was muttering things under his breath like filthy half-breed and the word mudblood . 

“Enough, Kreacher!” Sirius snapped. “What happened to my brother?”

“What are you talking about Master Sirius?” Kreacher croaked. 

“You must know something! Harry, show him the locket!” 

Harry stepped forward and held it out. The house-elves' eyes went wide. 

“Devil object! Devil object!” He practically screamed.  

“SHUT UP!” bellowed Sirius. “So you know what this is?”

“Kreacher does, yes. It was master Regulus’ locket,” he said reluctantly. 

“But there were two, did you ever see the other one?” Harry asked. 

“Yes,” he replied. “Before he died, Master Regulus ordered Kreacher to destroy it. It was the last thing he asked of Kreacher. But no matter how Kreacher tried, he could not…” Kreacher looked sad, a word he’d never thought he would use to describe the angry, snappy little house elf. 

“What do you mean before he died?” Sirius jumped in. 

“Before master Regulus sacrificed himself he had asked Kreacher to destroy it,” Kreacher explained. “It was his last dying wish.”

“No you’re lying,” Sirius sounded angry. “My little brother would never sacrifice himself for anyone.”

“But he did. Kreacher saw with his own eyes.”

Sirius scoffed, walking out of the room with Remus following shortly behind. 

“Where is it now? Did someone take it?” Hermione asked. 

“ Filthy mudblood -” he seethed.

“I forbid you from calling anyone mudblood!” Harry said with authority Ron had never seen in him before. He briefly thought it was quite attractive. “Now, answer her question.”

“Mundungus Fletcher! He came in the night and he took it!”

“Find him.”

Kreacher disapparated. 

“Do you think Sirius is alright?” asked Hermione, looking straight at Harry but he didn't seem to notice. 

“I hope so,” Ron sighed. “It's better to know your brother died for something good rather than something wrong, right?” 

“Kreacher better find him.” Harry stood and left the room like he hadn't even heard them talking. Ron was quick to follow him. 

“Harry– Harry!” He had to grip his arm to stop him from walking up the stairs. “Harry, what’s wrong?”

“Nothings wrong, Ron. I’m fine.” He shook his arm out of Ron’s warm grasp. 

“You're clearly not. You’re stressed.”

A reluctant, impressed smile appeared on Harry’s face. “I hate that you know me so well.”

Ron smiled. “Of course I do, Harry. I love you.”

Harry visibly relaxed which pleased Ron. He hated seeing him so tense. The shorter stepped closer and wrapped his arms around Ron’s neck. Ron quickly wrapped his arm around Harry’s waist and pulled him in closer. 

“I love you too,” Harry whispered. He leaned forward and kissed him slowly. Ron could kiss him forever. He didn’t care that Harry’s glasses slightly dug into Ron’s face. He loved the way his mouth moved against his. It was more than perfect. 

But then someone clears their throat. Ron and Harry jolt apart from each other. Standing in the doorway was Sirius, who wore a wide smile, and Lupin who looked slightly uncomfortable. 

“S–Sirius, I can explain–” Harry began, taking quick steps towards Sirius and away from Ron. 

“No need to explain Harry. I couldn’t be more happy for you!” He embraced Harry tightly. “Can you believe it, Moony?” He looked back at his fiance. “My godson and his best friend! Reminds me of two other Gryffindors.” He smirked. 

“Do you think…” Harry suddenly looked conflicted. 

“Do I think what?” asked Sirius.

“That they would’ve been okay with this?” he whispered, not even needing to clarify who they were, and Ron could almost feel his heart break. 

It always hurts to think about. The fact that Harry never got to know his parents, what they would have thought of him, of what he does. Before knowing Harry Ron never thought about how privileged he was to be able to return home and always being able to find family there to love and support him. 

Always… was maybe not the promise it used to be. 

“Harry, your parents are-were some of the most loving and caring people I’ve ever known,” said Remus. Ron could see the tension start to fall off Harry’s shoulders. “They wouldn't care whether it were a boy or girl who made you smile so bright. Only that you did.” Harry smiled. “I think James also had a little crush on a boy.”

“What?” Ron, Harry, and Sirius said at the same time. 

“You don’t remember, Sirius? James would scribble in a notebook the letter R next to J.”

“But– wasn’t that just another girl's name?” Sirius asked and Remus shook his head.

“James told me once when he’d had a few too many fire whiskeys. And then promised me not to tell any of his friends, not realizing who he was speaking to. Let’s just say sober James wasn't too happy when he remembered.” 

“Dad liked two people? How– Is that even possible?” Harry asked.

“James always had a lot of love, it wouldn't surprise me if his heart had room for two,” replied Remus.

“Wow…” Harry’s smile grew wider. “I can’t believe my dad liked boys too.”

“I told you, Harry.” Remus smiled. “You’re more like them than you know.”

Harry’s smile grew wider. It was clear he was in a better mood which Ron loved. With everything going on, it was so important to Ron that Harry still could smile. 

It was starting to get late so Remus had helped Ron find some proper bed sheets for everyone while Sirius and Harry stayed downstairs for a while. Hermione had disappeared when Sirius had mentioned a grand old library, Sirius seemed happy someone found some joy from this house. Though she returned not long after with a big pile saying that the library was too dark to read it. Ron was pretty sure that she just didn't want to be alone, he didn’t mention it. 

Remus had left Ron to set up his makeshift bed when he felt a gentle hand lay on his shoulder. He spun around and saw a tired Harry with a lazy smile splayed on his face. 

“Share the couch with me.”

Ron returned his smile. “Harry, there is no way we’ll both fit. We’re not eleven anymore.”

“We can transfigure it into a bigger couch.” It was almost funny how this boy who scared one of the most powerful wizards in history could look so adorable. 

“And you know how to do that?”

“Hermione does.” He looked over at Hermione who was sitting on the other couch. She looked up from her book with a glare. “ Please, Hermione?”

She let out a sigh and pulled out her wand. With a quick flick, the couch widened, becoming big enough for two. 

They made sure to thank Hermione thoroughly before getting into the transfigured couch, Harry getting in first and Ron following suit. Quite awkwardly staying to one side of the bed. Ron wasn't sure where this sudden wave of insecurity was coming from.

Harry grabbed the blankets and moved closer so that the blankets could cover them both. Ron relaxed into his touch as their legs tangled together. Relishing in the feeling of Harry’s fingers on his face as they traced from his jaw, up to his temple and into his hair. Running them through the ginger’s locks.   

“Harry,” Ron breathed out and let his eyes flutter close. His name felt so natural on his lips, like it belonged there. 

Ron opened his eyes again to look at Harry. He truly couldn't get over the fact that he was here, in the arms of the man he loved. 

“God, you’re beautiful,” Harry whispered into the dark. Words tumbling out like he hadn't meant to say them. Crimson coated the ginger boy’s cheek. Ron weakly shook his head and removed Harry’s hand from his hair. 

“You don't mean that.” 

Harry squeezed Ron’s hand. “You are. And I'll tell you a hundred times over again if that's what I need to do to make you believe it.”

A small smile started to break out on Ron’s face, despite the lack of light he decided the safest option was to hide his face in Harry’s chest. Whether that was just an excuse to get closer to the raven-haired boy no one will ever know. 

He couldn't help himself. Harry has always had this ability to make Ron feel better in any situation, like now. He wasn't sure if it should scare him that Harry could melt away his insecurities with just a few words. Ron has never been the most confident guy in the world but Harry always made him feel as though he was enough. Even when Ron was being a total dick towards him. 

Merlin, how he wished he could go back in time and shake some sense into his fourteen-year-old self.   

Ron hated Harry.

Or well he decided he does. And he also decided to ignore the small voice in his head who was trying to reason with him. Like Ron was gonna be the first one to try and fix this. Harry probably didn't care anyways. Too busy with his new life. 

Fuck him. 

Not like Ron cared. No, he was not going to care at all. Harry didn't even care to tell him about him putting his name in the fucking goblet of fire. Something that is a huge risk where he could get hurt. 

Harry didn't care, so he wouldn't either. 

Ron definitely didn't care that if Harry was smiling it was never because of Ron or that Harry never woke him up anymore to talk to him at night, though Ron was never actually asleep (always waiting to see if Harry wanted to talk). And thinking about all the different ways Harry could get hurt definitely didn't keep him up at night. 

So it was the most logical thing to do, or well more like feel. But he didn't feel like arguing with himself over such small details.  

If only he’d just told Harry that he was worried about him. So much could've been avoided if Ron had his sexual epiphany a few years earlier. 

The calm even breathing next to Ron tells him that Harry has fallen asleep. Ron smiles to himself as he feels two strong hands tug him closer by the waist. 

It then hits him how funny it is that Harry, the noticeably smaller one in this relationship, is the one holding Ron and making him feel safe. Though in his defense, who wouldn't feel safe with Harry, the boy who fucking lived. 

He laid there waiting for sleep to consume him, thinking about how there should be more words in the English vocabulary so he could properly describe the love he feels for this boy.