A Bit Early

The Start of Everything

I felt a tug on my other hand. I turned to see a pale looking Harry standing up slowly. He walked bravely towards the front of the Great Hall. I had to admire his courage; he kept his up held high, ignoring the boo's and glares he was receiving.

"Harry, please go to the back room with your fellow...champions," said Dumbledore quietly. Harry followed his orders, and I let out a sigh of relief as he disappeared behind the tall stone wall. Everyone else began evacuating the room except for Ron and me.

"What do you think that was about?" I muttered. I rotated back around, hoping to catch his eye to convey my fear, but he wasn't staring at me. He was staring at our hands, still intertwined, and his slightly shaking. I placed my other hand on top of his. "It'll all be alright."

"Everything?" he asked. He finally looked up. I knew he wasn't talking about Harry anymore. How could I never have noticed how beautiful his eyes are? I thought.

"Everything. I promise," I replied while slowly nodding. A brilliant smile lit up his face, touching his warm eyes. He pulled me into a tight, rib-crushing hug. I hugged back with as much force as I could muster through my shock. I never thought that my best friend, would ever be more than my best friend. I few happy tears slid down my cheek, and through red eyes I saw Ron kiss each one before they hit my chin.

Just then, Harry walked in. "Hey guys," he said a bit awkwardly. The room was now empty except for the three of us. Ron still held me in a tight embrace, and we were both reluctant to let go.

"Harry, how did it go?" I asked, desperate to end the awkward pause.

"Well," began Harry, still eyeing the two, "I am now the first fourth champion in history to compete in the Tri-Wizard Tournament." I could hear a slight note of pride in his voice. But his face was mostly consumed with worry.

"Would you like to come to the library with me, Harry? I'll help you research for the challenges," I offered trying to make him feel better. He smiled a bitter smile. I knew he hated asking for things from people.

"Thanks, but I'll only accept your help if you tell me what's going on with you two," Harry grinned smugly.