, time for something sweet ;; open

[hermione jean granger]

Hermione bit her lip. She seemed to be doing that quite a bit lately and well, who could blame her? There was a lot going on for the bushy-haired young lady. For starters, she was planning a wedding. That in itself was a stress-full act. It wasn’t her own (arg- if only!) but it was her best friend’s- in fact, both her best friend’s. So getting every little detail correct was growing rather important. She wanted the day to be particularly special for the couple. Since the war, there had been many things for the Weasley Family and friends to celebrate, however most of those events had felt tainted by the loss of lives, still fresh in their hearts. It was a sadness that Hermione was sure would never leave them, but with time it had lessened. Hermione felt like, for the first time, Fred’s absence wouldn’t be a such a huge gaping hole for the Weasley’s, and she was determined to create the perfect celebration. Besides, it warmed her heart to see Molly so enthusiastic. She had taken the loss of her son rather hard. The pair had been planning for months, while Ginny busied herself with graduating school.

With the date looming ever closer, there was still so much to be done- even with Hermione’s strong organisation skills. There was a downside to being so precise with details, it created more than double the work. The closer the date became, the more frazzled Miss Granger found herself. Running around trying to ensure every detail was exact, and everything was on schedule. Well, better her then Ginny right? All her Red-headed best friend had to worry about was coming to the dress fittings and having the final say on every decision. It was definitely worth it, getting someone to plan for you, Hermione had decided. When she planned her own- Ah. Hermione paused in her thoughts, pushing them from her mind fast as she could. She couldn’t afford to think about that right now- or any time for that matter! She knew that there was only really one person she could see herself marring, and she had thought he was going to take Harry’s lead and propose. He hadn’t though, and at the moment it really didn’t look like it was going to be happening anytime soon, so she really couldn’t lend the matter any time, or she’d just work herself up, and then what good would she be to anyone?

Pushing open the heavy door, Hermione focused her mind at on the task at hand. Finalizing the sweets selection for the lolly bar at the wedding. It had actually been Ron’s (gulp) idea. Ha, typical. The youngest Weasley son was always thinking with his stomach. It had merit though. Normally at weddings guests got those disgusting sugared almonds in a take home package. She and Ginny had been trying to choose a suitable replacement when Ron had made his way into the kitchen of their apartment (no doubt looking for food) and had made the comment that he’d want to choose his own sweets, because what if you got a bag full of really foul tasking Bertie Bots Beans? Hermione had to give credit where it was due-even if Ron had been helpful by accident. He’d also offered to be the official wedding taste tester, but that had been more for his stomach then to help out his sister and girlfriend (or well, now ex, she supposed) plan the thing. Ron seemed to have absolutely no interest in weddings. None what-so-ever. Even his own- Arg. Hermione shut off her thoughts. Cursed Sweet shop. Why did it remind her of the gitty Red-head?

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Leonardo hated Hogsmeade.

It was an irrational hatred, really. It didn't have anything to do with the all-wizard population, or the weather, or the people or the rapturous aura. It was the crowd, the feeling of being smothered by dozens of other people, all bustling along in their own little worlds, preoccupied with all their little lists of things to do and buy. When all those worlds began to collide, it created a nightmare for any claustrophobe. Luckily, Leon didn't fear narrow spaces; he just abhorred them, making Hogsmeade almost as bad as Diagon Alley. Nonetheless, he too bustled along the busy street, hazel eyes scanning the way ahead for the smallest of gaps. He was in a rush; it was rare that he got an opportunity to venture out freely into the Wizarding World without some sort of obligatory cloud over his head. Although, the Auror's Office could call upon him at any time, so he'd rather be quick with his own little checklist so he could do what he really wanted. Trying to be quick while clinging onto two large, over-filled bags was proving to be quite the challenge though, especially in the cataclysmic environment that was the Hogsmeade streets.

His last stop was to be Honeyduke's Sweetshop, haven for indulgents and gift-buyers. He couldn't help but feel a smile tug at his lips at the sight of the store as nostalgia and fond memories swept over him at the sight of the familar place. What muggle could forget their first exposure to the lively chocolate frog? Leon had a soft spot for the magical chocolate ever since he first tasted them. He deserved to indulge himself, didn't he? He hadn't had a break from work for a week and a bit now. Besides, chocolate released endorphins, and that'd lift his cheer a little. His grouchiness was beginning to irritate even himself as he noticed he had let himself go a bit. He hadn't shaved in a few days, meaning a little stubble of a beard began to spread across his youthful countenance. He didn't mind the stubble though, nor was there a woman in his life who'd tell him that the pricks of his beard was irritating. Well, maybe there was one...But he hadn't seen the bushy-haired gal in awhile. Not since that night, anyway.

He shook it out of his mind. He was too confused about it all, too unsure of what even happened. All he knew was that by the end of the night, their lips danced together and parted ways a bit too late to be some sort of innocent touch. The image was beginning to float back into his mind but it faded away as soon as it became clear when he felt someone brush past, irritated that he was blocking the door. He flushed red, apologised, and followed the elderly lady through into the energetic store. Honeyduke's had always been a bright, vibrant place bustling with activity. At times, it was even more chaotic to be inside it than outside, as children buzzed around and chocolate frogs bounced off walls and windows. Ironically, he liked the interior of Honeyduke's moreso than the exterior. He put it down to the scents inside the store. He had always loved the smell of sweets wafting through the air, especially on those colder days. And he was sure that just the aroma of the store was enough to entice a few more customers.

Weaving through the crowds, his eyes were firmly set on the familar shelf which housed the chocolate frogs. They came in various sizes and assortments, but he was mainly after a box of them, to save him the trip to the store again. Alas, such concentration in such a chaotic environment would prove foolish, and he soon felt his face fluster again as he bumped into someone at the lolly bar. He tripped, but regained his footing, but one of his overfilled bags tipped over, spilling to the floor various herbs that he would use for a potion he was concocting. He cursed at himself and muttered his apology. "Ugh, sorry, it hasn't been..." he began shyly, but as his eyes caught a view of the young woman, he broke off in shock. "Oh, hey...Hermione." He cursed himself for looking like an idiot before her, but he couldn't change what had been done. Just like he couldn't change what happened that night.

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[hermione jean granger]

The young woman bit her lip. What flavour did Ginny say she hated? She specifically remembered the red-head telling her that there was a specific flavour bean she hated and was simply not allowed to be apart of the self-serve sweet bar at the wedding. For the life of her though, Miss Granger couldn’t re-call what that flavour was. It was moments like these she wished the Wizarding word had an alternative to mobile phones. It was quicker than an Owl and helped get an answer to important things on the spot. Oh well, she’d just have to place the order, then Owl them any changes that needed to be made after she spoke to Ginny. They’d understand about fussy brides wanting everything to be perfect, right? She’d spoken to the owners of the sweet shop many times about the wedding, and they seemed really excited about the fact they could be involved in Harry Potter’s wedding. Everyone seemed excited. Oh to be famous..

Smirking to herself, Hermione turned, with the intention of heading over to get some fudge. However she never quite got there. Instead, she bumped into (or rather, was bumped into). She instantly knew who it was. While he had lost his footing, Hermione hadn’t. She stood, shocked, watching the young man as he steadied himself, but his bag went flying. Leon. The bushy brunette felt her pulse quicken. She had successfully avoided the young man since that night. Feeling as though she wasn’t at all ready to deal with what had happened between them. Not only that, but she just couldn’t deal with the memory of his lips on hers. Him standing before her though, brought it all flooding back. How he had touched her cheek, how warm his arms felt, how she’d placed her hand gently on his chest and allowed herself get lost in the moment for too long.

As he looked up at her, Hermione’s eyes locked into his. It felt impossible to look away. Suddenly under his eyes, she felt naked. As though she wasn’t wearing the pale green knit jacket and jeans that did in fact cover her form. Reaching up, she scratched at her collar-bone. She wasn’t itchy.. It was just a nervous habit she had formed. “Hello..” she greeted, in an all too formal voice. You generally weren’t so formal with someone you had been so intimate with. Then again, Hermione had never exactly been skilled at this sort of thing. For all her intelligence, the young woman still hadn’t mastered the art of the relationship. Case in point standing right in front of her. He looked.... Okay, he looked good. Hermione wasn’t above admitting that. Stubble suited him. A rather lot actually.

She swallowed, and slipped out her wand. Giving it an absentminded flick in order to restore his herbs to their rightful place inside his shopping bag. “What.. are you doing here?” She titled her head to the side as she put her wand away, trying to keep her tone light and friendly. “I mean, not that you don’t have a right to be wherever you like. I just mean it’s strange seeing you out during the day. Not that you’re a vampire or-“ Her cheeks flushed, as she bit her lip. “I’m rambling, aren’t I?”

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For what seemed an eternity, he stood stunned before her. Of course, it all sounded cliché, but cliché often translated into reality at the end of the day. Her greeting broke his stiff stance almost instantly. Not for the soft, feminine qualities that emanated from her pink lips, but for the formality that was laced within that simple 'hello'. It reaffirmed for him that she was just as flustered and confused as he, and somehow, that made him relax just a bit. Yet, his eyes still caught her absent-minded scratch on the collarbone, and with that motion the sensations of that night flooded back to mind. 'No, not now,' he fiercely thought to himself, mentally rooting himself to the present day. He hastened his hand to his mahoghany wand to recover his fallen goods, but she already had brought them back to his bag, compact and packed in neat order. He observed her handy work; why hadn't he thought of that? He was the Ravenclaw, after all. Then again, she had told him that she was a bit OCD. She told him that on that night...argh! He pinched the skin on his forearm hard, leaving a noticable indentation. Surely, she'd notice the little movement.

He couldn't help but think she was acting so cute in her little rambles. So cute, in fact, that he couldn't help but smile widely even though his inner emotions betrayed his face. Inside, butterflies assaulted his stomach with a barrage of attacks, each one representing a different emotion. He quelled them all, and quelled the fear. "Of course you're rambling, Hermione. Although, you might be onto something with the whole Vampire idea..." He braved a sheepish grin, eyes scurrying over her modest clothing and hidden figure. She had never had the reputation for being a gorgeous gal, but for some reason he found himself attracted to her. Immensely so, in fact. And now that she was single...well, supposedly. Word around the Auror's Office was that the pair would never really break off. That it was all just a little speedhump in the tale of love. He really wanted to believe that. But deep down, somewhere in the depths of attraction where spite grew strong, he hoped it was over. He hated himself for that, but emotions were...well, emotions. Uncontrollable, unreasonable and a huge pain in the ass.

Nonetheless, emotions catalysed actions - but they didn't completely control them. He had to remain calm, and cool in front of Miss Granger. "Just grabbing some chocolate frogs while I have the chance. Knowing the Auror's Office, I probably won't get a chance to be out freely for...well, a month? And there's the Leaky Cauldron tonight, so the endorphins will help me deal with the drunks." He spoke a little too fast, but what could they expect? Besides, Leon was just appreciative that in all the wizarding world, Hermione Granger would understand what endorphins were and what they did. True, he could just use a happy charm or something like that, but chocolate tasted so much better than the swirl of a wand over one's head. "And yourself? I haven't seen you in a while." The last sentence slipped his lips before he could think, and it just accentuated the awkwardness between them. It felt as though only they existed in the busy store. But that wasn't true. This was Hermione Granger, after all, best friend of the Chosen One. She was quite the popular girl.

He placed the bags down, not knowing what to expect of this little meeting. After all, she could just dismiss him and leave the store. But he had a feeling she wouldn't do that. Subconsiously, without realizing, his hand had come up to her face, caressing her cheek for the slightest moment, tracing up to lone strands of hair that had become loose in his clumsiness. He brushed them aside, over her ear, to help her vision. Or, maybe, so he could stare into her brown eyes better.

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[hermione jean granger]

Hermione felt herself smile. He was making fun of her, sure, but she didn’t mind. She knew it was all in good humour. Smirking a little, she tried not to laugh as he suggested he may have been a vampire. He clearly wasn’t, as she’d seen him in plain day before. However it clearly was an amusing thought for the both of them. As he spoke, the young woman couldn’t help but let her eyes take him in. He was attractive. There was no denying that. She’d noted it the first time they had met. She wasn’t above knowing when someone was good looking. However it wasn’t the thing that drew Hermione in. His mind had attracted her. She had initially thought it was just a friendship- they clicked as friends. In fact, it wasn’t until he had been leaning in, brushing a finger down her arm idly, then kissing her, had she realised what more there was to the connection they shared.

It had been a while since he had seen her. Hermione bit the inside of her lip. Him voicing that sent a flutter through her stomach. Guilt settling in. It really hadn’t been fair for her to do that to him, she understood that now. At least, they were friends and romantic entanglements aside, as her friend she owed him more than just avoiding him. More then that, she liked his presence. They could talk about things- about what it’s like to have parents who don’t understand your life anymore. Truth be told, she had missed seeing him. Missed his smile, and the engaging conversations they had. It didn’t make the situation any easier but at least she knew now that running from it was not only immature, but she wasn’t going to be able to work it all out if she ran away.

“I’m here on official wedding business..” she told him with a smirk. She’d spoken to him before about the wedding, plenty of times. It was always a topic of conversation for anyone that knew the happy couple. Everyone seemed excited about the up-coming event. Her smile faded though, as she let her gaze rest on his. “I’m sorry for that. I.. I wasn’t exactly sure what to do. How to react. I should have at least..” Her words trailed off as she watched his hand moving towards her. A mingle of horror and anticipation tugging at her features. Hermione wasn’t sure if she wanted him to touch her, but at the same time she felt a small thrill run through her at the thought. She was so closed off to the thought of any other male in her life, that this whole thing had taken her by such surprise, she barely knew what to do with herself.

Her breath hitched as she felt his hand on her cheek. She closed her eyes for the moment, taking a deep breath before opening her eyes once more. Gaze instantly finding his. She stood for a moment as she let him tuck hair behind her ear. Hands shaking slightly. For some reason that simple act seemed so completely innocent- even indecent for the location. She stepped back, breaking the contact between them and turning head. Arms moving to hug her middle in a rather closed stance. However, her body was angled towards his still. Her body language seemed to personify the eternal struggle she was feeling. Not wanting him to take her closed stance as a sign that he should leave, she spoke. “Do you think that strawberry or raspberry Bertie Bots beans are more romantic?”

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As a smile tugged at her soft lips, he felt his own grow wider. She was stunning when she smiled, and even the less-innocent smirk carried an aura of adorable naughtiness. The emotions and responses to everything she did were all raw - unrefined and natural. In truth, they hadn't known each other long at all, but it felt they had known each other for much longer than they had. They were starkly different people, and yet, at the same time, eerily similar. It was all disconcerting; the chemistry was all there. But something seemed to stop them both from pushing beyond that barrier of friendship, some irrational fear perhaps? Or guilt? Perhaps it was hope for a return of old romance, on her part, anyway. But alas, the fault wasn't all hers. He, too, was caught within a rift. Was he to risk friendship for romance? He had very few friends to begin with, let alone a lover in his life. If courage were to take hold of his will, it would risk something he wouldn't dare sacrifice.

He wouldn't dare admit it, but he did feel upset at the time that elapsed before he had seen her again. He had an inkling she was avoiding him. It was only the logical explanation really, considering what had occurred on that evening. When their lips caressed each others, and their hands entwined on the sofa, he felt a fire ignite inside of him of raw passion, roaring over every fibre of his being. As that passion settled, it was only then that he felt like he betrayed Ron, even if the couple were seperated. And he could only assume that Hermione would feel the same, too. It wasn't easy to throw away over ten years of memories together. It was at that point that Leon assumed that he was the one to be tossed aside - I mean, it's easier to throw away a relationship built over months than a decade, right? But here she was, staring into his eyes and him into hers. Their gazes hadn't escaped each others since their bodies touched, and once he realized, he gazed at his bags of herbs. God, why did he feel like such a teenager?

"It's okay, you didn't have to do anything." He didn't want to make things more awkward than they were, nor did he really want to start a row in the middle of Honeyduke's, where the atmosphere was always hyper and energetic. Besides, a row would mean crying children, and crying children meant chaos. The store was already chaotic enough as it is. "Organising a wedding must be a dream for you." He changed the topic quickly, tossing out the off-handed statement lazily as he averted his gaze towards the two flavours of Bertie Botts beans. He knew what that stance meant - she was confused, insecure, and unwilling to commit to something. At least, that's what he translated it to mean. Even so, she didn't totally cut him off; she asked his opinion on the more romantic bean, after all. He stepped forward lightly towards the bar, gazing intently at the two similarly coloured bean, barely noticing the closed distance now between him and her.

"I would think...strawberry." He decided, plucking from the assortment of beans one of the strawberry ones. "Only because strawberries and cream are delicious, though. But Bertie Botts is a bit of an odd choice for a wedding...I would've thought chocolate is the popular choice...and it tastes nicer." He shut his mouth abruptly before he said too much. He, too, was rambling a little in his efforts to make conversation. But it wasn't that that made him stop himself. It was the fact that he was about to add 'like your lips' to the end of that sentence.

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[hermione jean granger]

She felt him move closer. There was a voice in her head that demanded she stepped away from him-create more distance between them, however she quelled the voice and stood still. Her shoulder felt warm as she could feel heat radiating from his chest. It wouldn’t take much for her to just lean into him... If she wanted to of course. In all honesty she liked having him there, close to her like that. If she forget everything else, and just focused on the two of them it was almost as though they were just like any other couple, snuggling up while shopping. Only they weren’t and it was impossible to block out everything and just pretend. There was two things Hermione knew. One, for all intense and purposes she and Ronald had broken up. Two, she had feelings for Leonardo. The unknown factor (and the one that should govern her actions here) was thus; did she want to get back with Ron, or pursue something with Leon?

She loved Ron. Hermione knew that. But what happened when Ron wasn’t enough? For as long as she had known him, they had rowed. And it wasn’t in that thrilling intelligent debate sense. As she grew a little older, she considered the fact that the fighting was due in large part to the chemistry they felt. However now they had settled the un-resolved tension and yet the fighting remained. Did she want to spend the rest of her life fighting with her lover? Was their love worth it? These were things she couldn’t answer, so she tried to focus her mind on the things she could; like which flavour of bean. She considered his answer for the moment. She herself did have a large fondness for chocolate. Being the child of a dentist leant to a wicked sweet-tooth when you finally broke away from them and were allowed all the sugary foods they denied you.

She cast a longing look at the chocolate display case at the counter. Honeyduke’s range of chocolate was to die for. She was almost licking her lips at the site of it. “Yes.” She agreed, giving a nod and glancing back to him. “Chocolate does taste better. But they want a range of different sweets, and what sort of planner would I denied them that?” This comment jogged her memory of a previous question he had asked, one that had gotten lost in all the moment they had created for themselves. “I just like the organizing and the details. I’m not planning this dreaming of my own.” As she spoke, she reached out and helped herself to two beans. One Raspberry, and one Strawberry. She took a bite of each, taking her time to savour the tastes. “Hm, you are right, again. Strawberry..” Her body turned into his a little more, as she held out her hand- offering him the half eaten beans.

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It wasn't until her shoulder pressed lightly against his chest that he realized the closeness of their bodies. At this distance, even when surrounded by the aroma of sweets, it was her scent alone that filled his nostrils, so similar to the one that wafted into his world all those nights ago. There was nothing in the moment to indicate he was being flirtatious, so he kept the meagre distance, busying his eyes over the Bertie Bott's beans and their array of colours and flavours. Instinctually, he had turned the entire moment to teeter on her. It wasn't about him seizing what he yearned for - he had liked Hermione from the beginning of their friendship, after all - it was about quelling the awkward sentiments that existed between them, and keeping things cordial. Well, at least for now. Much like the taste of chocolates and sweets, the taste of those lips of hers were very much an unforgettable treat, one he would whole-heartedly indulge in again. But he feared that if he were to indulge once more, sanity would leave him as passion took over. It all still felt wrong...even though, technically, it was all right.

"I'm sure Ginny and Harry have the utmost faith in your judgement...besides, sometimes it's good to dream. It gives you something to stretch for, no matter how impossible what you've dreamt may be. Nightmares...well, they're another story." He flashed a smile at her, his cynical undertones again tainting what would have been nice imparted wisdom. Of course, it wasn't as though he needed to impart any wisdom at all. She was probably the most intelligent person he had ever met, and that was including all the Ravenclaws he had graduated with. That was part of her appeal, he supposed. After all, everytime they debated on some fanciful topic, they would always end in laughter, no matter how serious it was. It was in those moments - the serious debate, the uncontrollable laughter, the awkward silence, the innocent smile - that he had felt most at home with her. Then again, they had never quarelled...how would they fair under such stress?

He caught her eyes casting their longing gaze over the chocolate display counter. "I think you can count out the frogs though...they're a bit too unpredictable for a wedding." He offered his advice, however small it was, then stepped inwards to take from her the two halved beans of strawberry and raspberry. As their skin touched though, he slowed his movement - whether subconciously or knowingly, he wasn't too sure - reminiscing on how perfect it felt to have her hand clasped within his. The seconds dragged on before he realized how long his hand had remained over hers. He hastened to take the beans and plopped them in mouth, taking a moment to chew and swallow. "Thank you." He said after a gulp, leaning back on the counter. "Your hands are...soft." It was all that he could think to say, really. He hated being speechless. But that was the effect she was having right now. He knew he could feel completely comfortable with her, but he didn't know if it was right. By Weasley, or by her.

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[hermione jean granger]

At the mention of frogs, Hermione’s heart gave a lurch. Her first instinct was to say how Ron would probably kill her if there went some frogs in the mix-as they were his favourite. However, the Weasley was not exactly the person she wished to mention at that particular moment. Not when they were slowly working their way away from awkward and into something that could actually be pleasant. And it certainly was pleasant having his hand linger on hers. Far too pleasant for the bushy haired woman to ignore. Her cheeks flushed happily as she watched their hands. Part of her wanted it to stay like that, however she wasn’t bold enough to slip her hand into his once he had eaten the beans. Instead, she let her eyes linger on his lips as he ate. Pressing her own lips inward to moisten them.

Clearing her throat, she attempted a soft smile. “Yours are warm..” she noted in reply. She wasn’t sure what else to say. Was she supposed to say thank you? She guessed she was, but her mind was such a blur right then. Everything she thought she knew about relationships was scattered, unable to be processed by her mind. She both hated and loved that he could do that to her- that he could make it impossible to think clearly. And yet, at the same time he made her feel comfortable. He wasn’t hard for her to be around. Of course, there was the awkward moments that made her heart race, but over-all, she didn’t distain his presence. Rather the opposite actually. Swallowing, Hermione looked down. She knew there was so much she needed to do today, but she wasn’t going to be successful in any of it when she was standing there with Leon, her head swimming.

“I think.. I need some air..” she murmured. Chewing on her bottom lip. She didn’t have the courage to do much at this moment, but she did have the courage for this. Looking up, she let her gaze meet his once more. “Would you.. take a walk with me? I mean, if you have the time. I don’t want to impose on your day and if you are busy and need to say no I will completely understand. I know it must be nice to have a day to yourself and you may not want to waste it on me.” Ah, lovely. She was rambling again. Her cheeks were flushing deeply, and her words were coming out rather rushed, however she was certain she was making sense. At least, the first part of her speech had, the question in particular.

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He had given up on averting his gaze from her. It was too much of an effort, and to be honest, it didn't make sense to avoid such a harmless pleasure such as absorbing the vision that was her. Of course, that meant that each subtle twitch of her features were known to him, and he watched as she went through the motions of a girl in throes of emotion. He, too, went through the same throes, thinking that each word and each movement of himself had to be calculated precisely. But when one's mind is overtaken with raw anxiety, how can you adjust accordingly? Instead, he let himself bask in her flushing cheeks, catching the tinge of red with a quick eye. That, at least, meant that he had done something to make her somewhat happy in this otherwise giddy meeting. He just hoped that he didn't screw it all up from here. It was all too enticing to do something drastic when she pursed her lips inwards, causing them to glisten in the lights of the store. It was those little movements that dared him to forget all the stakes.

Their conversation had hit a standstill. When complimented on the warmth of his hands, he too struggled to find an adequate response. The simple 'thanks' sounded a little odd, and another compliment would just incite another awkward silence that would probably end their meeting. And Leon...well, he didn't want that. Despite the anxiety and the tension between them, he enjoyed finally being in her presence again, after missing her awfully. His head swam with a pleathora of ideas to talk about, but he really didn't feel like talking about the weather or the state of affairs in the Ministry. Nor was this the time for it, really. When her eyes lifted to his again and her lips parted to speak, he breathed a quick sigh of relief. She, at least, had taken the initiative. More than he originally had thought, too, inviting him on a walk into the Hogsmeade streets. Her invitation made him forget how he abhorred the claustrophobic sensations that riveted in him at the sheer shrillness of the noise and people squished together.

He was about to say yes, but once again, her rambling cut him off. She spoke fast, but clear enough for him to catch every word and be a little amused by them. It was only then that he connected her question and her rambling, realizing the disconcerting emotions that he experienced were hers too. That the invitation for a walk was a sign, and perhaps, a show of courage. Or perhaps he was overthinking things. In any case, he was sure that he wouldn't find an answer to such queries at the present moment. He needed to act, respond...he just needed to do something. He gave her a cursory glance, noting her firm but nervous gaze and flushed cheeks. The moment was, perhaps, a little too perfect, but Leon knew that it was these moments that needed to be seized. Regret for action was painful, but regret for non-action was even more so. He pushed himself off the counter and came close towards her. A moment's hesitation, and then, he had decided.

He leaned forwards, bringing his moist lips with a tinge of raspberry and strawberry upon hers, softly caressing those soft, pink pillows with the light kiss that echoed the one that had ignited that night days ago. But here, within the Honeyduke's Sweetshop, he regained control of his senses and came back to take in her frame. "You're rambling again." He didn't need to answer her question. The kiss had done it for him. He lifted his bags from the floor, and motioned towards the door with an affable smile. Oh, how he hoped he didn't just screw things up.

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[hermione jean granger]

... Well. Well indeed. That was.. Not a way anyone had ever used to cease her ramblings. And to be perfectly truthful, it was welcomed. She felt herself melt slightly. It was an odd sensation really. One that couldn’t be explained. She had thought that if he kissed her again she’d tense from nerves and confusion. However her body seemed to have other ideas. Instead of tensing, it relaxed. As though his lips were performing some spell upon her. And perhaps they were. Not in the conventional way, but she was convinced they held some sort of special power. Her own responded softly. A little unsure at first, but gladly accepting his kiss none the less. Just like she had that first kiss, she moved to press her hand gently to his chest. It was a favourite place of Hermione’s, she was learning about herself.

There was a part of her that registered the fact that the middle of a sweet shop was not the most ideal location for a kiss. So she was at least partially glad when he pulled back. Stopping things before the rating was kicked up a notch. They seemed to prove with their first kiss that it hadn’t taken long for something small and innocent to turn much more intense rather quickly. With flushing cheeks, she let her hand fall slowly from his chest. At his comment, she felt herself chuckle as a smirk tugged at her still tingling lips. “Sorry about that. You just seem to have that affect on me.” She was teasing, yes, but there was truth to her words as well. He did cause her to ramble. She was almost certain though, that the fact would amuse him, not offend him. He seemed to always take delight in seeing her squirm. Not that it was often. A rare event really.

Smiling, she nodded, and moved away from him. Taking the lead and moving towards the door. Weaving her way around people as she went. Hermione knew he’d be following, so she didn’t feel the need to look back and check on him. Once out in the open, she paused. The streets were so busy today. She really didn’t want to be anywhere busy right then. She wanted... well bluntly she wanted privacy with Leon. To talk.. and because, she wasn’t hugely fond of displays of affection put on in a public domain for everyone to see. It there was going to be more.. of what had just happened, the busy main street just wasn’t the place. She knew it wasn’t the smartest idea, that they should really talk about things. But oh how she wanted to feel his lips on hers again. Regardless the consequences.

Still in the lead, she made her way quickly away from the main street. Slowing once she turned down a much less crowded alley. It was then she turned to check that Leon was still following. Anticipation of what could happen now filling her mind.

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In that one, swift meeting of their wanting lips, the tension vanished, like smoke slowly fading from an area. It was amusing that the one action that he had been so conflicted over had broken all the anxiety, the fear and the rift that defined their current status as friends or lovers. Not that it signified anything, of course - but it could be the beginning of something. When her soft hand pressed against his chest, covered by his striped shirt, his heart gave a little jolt. It felt...right. Just right. It was the only word he could think of to explain the phenomena that was this. Then euphoria flowed through him as he felt her lips press closer, making the moment just a little more intense. Not too intense, of course. They had to maintain decency in the innocent sweetshop or they'd attract too much attention. And even though Leon had forgotten all about the role of Ron in this romance, he was quite aware of Hermione's popularity in the recent years.

When they pulled away, he couldn't help but feel at ease. Her smile, her chuckle and her little tease had something to do with that, of course. He was glad enough to have things a bit more relaxed, but...it was almost as if the bushy-haired witch was innocently flirting with him. She could've just been stating facts, though. She always rambled around him, and if she didn't stop...well, maybe a tickle would help her out. "That's funny...'cause you make me speechless." It sounded rather lame, he had to admit, but it was the truth. The usually witty, sharp-tongued wizard always seemed to fail to conjure the right words around her. Unless it was in some sort of competitive sense, of course. He was sure their debates could go on for days, if they could control their urges to laugh. Before he could go on, she was smiling and turning away, into the bustling Hogsmeade street. He hastened to follow her.

It wasn't hard to find her in the crowds with her pale green knit jacket and bushy brown hair, but as the gap between them elongated, he felt an intense longing to be back within arms reach, back to a distance where he could see himself in her eyes, a distance where he could clasp her soft hands again and fill the gaps between her fingers with his own. And so he followed, not knowing where they were 'walking' to. He used the term lightly, because it was much more like a light jog at this pace. Also, a walk usually meant talking along the way, and they seemed to not be having any of that either. He was content with following, though. And that made him confused inside. What was it about her that made him lose his cynical touch? His sharp-tongued ferocity? His antagonism? True, he had known her long enough to reveal the true softie he was, but still...it didn't matter. He was intrigued about it, but he was intrigued about her more.

She had pulled into an obscure alleyway ahead, rather empty save a few bystanders who were floating into their cosy little homes. Finally he could slow his pace, but it wasn't as though he was tired. He gazed upon her, waiting for him to come inside with her, alone. Anxiety laced his gait as he walked towards her, enough room for two side by side to walk in the dimly lit alleyway. When he came close enough, before she could walk on, he boldly put his hands on her waist, high though, holding her in place not by force but by the sheer light touch. "Where are we going?" He asked lightly, curious to where this alleyway led. Ignorantly enough, he didn't realize the romance associated with his hold on her curves.

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[hermione jean granger]

Hermione bit the inside of her lip as he made his war towards her. Nerves were taking over her now. She wasn’t sure why she was so nervous. I mean, what was she expecting him to do, pounce on her or something? One (okay well, two) kiss didn’t define their relationship. There was still so much that needed to be considered. They hadn’t even discussed what they felt for each other. For all Hermione knew, he wasn’t interested in anything but some tawdry affair, she doubted it though. Leon really didn’t seem to be that type. Or at least, he didn’t seem the sort to let his conquests get in the way of friendships. In short, Leon was one of the nice guys so it was almost a given that he must have felt something if he was kissing Hermione. She just didn’t know what. The young woman wasn’t exactly used to a lot of male attention.

She felt herself smile as his hands came to rest on her sides, stopping her from walking on. She felt her skin tingle under his hands. This was a new sort of interaction for them, and that fact made it somewhat exciting for Hermione. Her arms hovered for a moment. They couldn’t hang the way they normally would have, as his hands and arms prevented that. She wasn’t really sure what to do with her arms. It felt a little awkward just letting them hang there. Timidly, she brought her hands up, placing them gently on his shoulders. Cheeks flushing as she did. The poor thing was so unsure of herself when it came to this sort of thing and dating Ron for two years hadn’t exactly helped. Sure she’d grown comfortable with Ron, but Leon wasn’t Ron.

In all honestly, that was part of the attraction. He wasn’t Ron. He and Ron were almost polar opposites. That sounded so horrid, and Hermione felt a little guilty for thinking it, but she really couldn’t help it. It was a welcomed change. In fact, wasn’t it better that way? At least she knew how she felt for the man in front of her wasn’t just because he reminded her of her ex. She liked him for his own unique qualities. It was just, she felt like she was betraying Ron a little by seeking out someone so different. It wasn’t like she had asked for any of this though. It had just come along and happened. She couldn’t control it, surely that was understandable right? It wasn’t as though she had gone out looking for someone to just go and snog. She wasn’t that sort of girl- the sort that just moved from guy to guy faster then you could apparate.

Tilting her head to the side, she pushed her own thoughts aside, considering his question. “You know, I’m not really sure.” She murmured honestly, giving a small shrug. “My only plan was to get away from the main street. I hadn’t considered what would happen after that..” Her cheeks flushed slightly, glancing down the alley before back towards Leon. “I’m not even sure I know where this leads. Sorry. I suppose you’re disappointed in my lack of a decent plan.” The last part had been something of a joke. When she wasn’t so uptight and stressed, Hermione could actually be a rather enjoyable person to be around.

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Leon wondered how to feel in this situation. In this dimly lit, deserted alley, occupied by himself and the woman he'd been feeling - what he felt were - unrequited emotions for. Of course, that was the Ravenclaw thing to do. Calculate each action, scrutinise every movement and act accordingly. But that wasn't possible here. Not when your mind was stunned, not when you had barely any room to move and especially not when you were gazing into such alluring eyes. He himself barely knew what he was saying until the moment passed, acting on the raw and instinctual emotion that attraction bred. Oh, he had crushes, sure. Little emotional attachments scattered throughout all his years at Hogwarts. But alas, his personality made it hard for him to press any romantic connections. The girls he had met throughout his years at the magical institute were moreso great friends than romantic interests, and were never interested in him in 'that way'. It made him wonder if Hermione were attracted to him at all.

He dismissed his doubts. Of course she was! Then, mentally, he shook his head, realizing how arrogant he must've sounded to himself. Well, he did feel her lips press closer to his each time they met, just then and on that night...Bah! He was living in the past again. It felt blasphemous to live in such memory when he had the visage of his dreams right before him, standing awkwardly with her hands floating around her midriff. He smiled at that. She looked cute, being confused and unsure of how to handle herself. It meant that he'd have to show a bit of initative, make her feel...safe. Comfortable. He relished in having the opportunity to do so. "I'm disappointed in you, Hermione. Leading me down such a dangerous alleyway without a plan? For all we know, there could be a deadly puffskein just waiting to devour us!" Of course he was jesting. Friendly sarcasm was laced all throughout his tone as he slipped to her side, his hand lightly tugging at her side, encouraging her to twist herself to be side by side with him.

When he peered down the alley himself, he really didn't know here it led either. He visited Hogsmeade as often as he could in Hogwarts, but he wasn't particularly adventurous in his doings at the wizarding village. Not like her, anyway. He wondered how she must've perceived him. He wasn't as 'exciting' as Ron or Harry...not in the sense that he had met He Who Must Not Be Named, anyway. He had experienced his fair share of scuffles and excitement, but not paralyzing fear and death. Regardless, he was just happy to have her here. Alone. Able to, well...talk. If that's what they decided their lips would do, anyway. "Only one way to find out where it goes, isn't there? Besides, I think it's a decent enough plan to be able to explore the unknown with you." He smiled and bowed his head just a bit, tugging her along the way. His arm had crept up upon her shoulder now. His own shoulder begged for her to lean her head over just a bit, and rest it there. He wanted her to feel comfortable.

Although, at the same time, he didn't want her to feel pressured. He knew that her experience of the single life since Ron had been a tad...short. "How are the wedding plans? I hear the women have taken control of the whole occassion." That was how it usually went, anyway. He didn't think it wise to tell her Harry had joked about it in the Auror's Office.

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[hermione jean granger]

Hermione was so much more at ease these days. It was still sort of strange to her not to have school or the fate of the Wizarding World to worry about. Of course, she still had her moments. She wouldn’t be Hermione Granger if she didn’t stress at least some of the time. It was nice though, to be over-all calm. In the years since the war, the young woman had grown a lot more witty then she had seemed in the past. Though she’d always had a dry sense of humour, it seemed to show itself a lot more now that the world was not in peril. It seemed a lot of people were growing and changing since the fall of Voldermort. It was nice to see actually. Especially for those who had spent most of their lives in the middle of a war.

Complying with his un-spoken wishes, she moved to stand at his side. Her own shoulder pressing into his softly. “Oh Merlin forbid you are right...” She noted dryly. Glancing at him as she concealed a smirk. “I don’t think I could face one of those. He who must not be named, piece of pumpkin pie, but a puffskein? I don’t think I could handle it. Good thing I’m with a skilled Auror then, right?” She let her smirk grow larger. She was most certain that whatever was down this alley, between the two of them, they could handle it. They’d both had a lot experience, she guessed, with defensive magic. Of course that had been one subject Hermione hadn’t duxed at school. If she had to come second to anyone though, she supposed that could be acceptable. He was the boy who lived, after all. Although, she didn’t like people to think that was why he was so skilled in defensive spells. He had such a natural ability.

Moving forward down the alley, she chuckled (Hermione wasn’t one to giggle) lightly. An adventure to the unknown. She had seen enough of those in her life time, but this particular adventure didn’t exactly seem dangerous, so that was alright. More then likely they’d find themselves wandering around the various cutely thatched houses of the village. Which she honestly wouldn’t mind. She’d always found the village so lovely. And the company right now was what mattered. Glancing across at him, Hermione bit the inside of her lip. A fresh wave of nerves washing over her as he asked about the wedding. She appreciated the effort, but did he really want to engage with her in small talk about his colleague’s wedding? Her brows knitted themselves together as she frowned. Stopping her steady pace.

“Leon..” she started slowly, eyes still looking at him. “I could tell you all about the wedding, but I’m not sure that’s really what you want to hear. Or perhaps what we should be talking about.” She looked down at her feet, trying to sooth her nerves. “We should talk about the other night.. And just then... I mean. We kissed. And now we are..” she gestured to the closeness of their bodies, not sure she had a word for it. “We need to figure out what it all means, before things get too out of control.” Ah. There was the Hermione we all know and love. Thinking with her head, practical, logical..

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