Harry Potter and the Wandless Magic

Chapter Thirteen: The Dementor

Harry and Hermione arrived at King's Cross a half hour early. The train station was full of a variety of people with a few wizarding families beginning to say their goodbyes to their children. Some of them were going for their first year, and a small pain struck Harry in the chest that no one had been there to wish him goodbye when he was eleven.

Even though it's been weeks since I saw them, Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia still find a way to punch me in the gut one more time.

He had said his goodbyes to Andromeda, Ted and Dora earlier that morning before meeting up with Hermione's parents at their home. Andromeda had concealed her tears and told Harry to write to her as often as he wanted. Before he left, she handed him a signed permission slip for him to visit Hogsmeade which earned her an extra goodbye hug.

"Now Hermione, don't forget to write to us about your new classes," Emma said. "I'm sure you'll do great in them. We are so proud of you."

Dan turned to Harry. "I know that you'll try to stay out of trouble, Harry, but it does seem to follow you around."

Harry waited for him to continue.

"Just do your best to steer clear of it. Use your head. You seem like a good kid, and my Hermione could do much worse. Honestly, I'm shocked you are as nice as you are, given your upbringing with the Dursleys."

Harry's brow creased slightly. "I'm not sure where you're going with this, sir."

Dan put a hand on Harry's shoulder. "Just watch out for her, will you? Don't put her in danger if you can absolutely do everything you can to help it. Keep a cool head. Understand?"

With a nod, Harry reached out and shook Dan's hand firmly. "I'll do my best, sir."

Emma reached out and pulled Harry into a hug right after she had done the same to Hermione. "We are so grateful that Hermione has grown closer to you. I've never seen her happier."

Hermione blushed with a big smile but did not correct her mother.

"You both watch out for each other and study hard," Emma said sternly.

"Yes ma'am," Harry said quickly.

"It's still Emma, dear," Hermione's mother chided.

"Sorry. I'll remember next time."

"Come on, Harry. I want to get a good compartment before they fill up." Hermione waved at her parents. "I love you both, and I'll see you at Christmas."

"We love you too sweetheart!" Emma called as both she and Dan waved.

Harry and Hermione stepped through the barrier to Platform 9 ¾ and made their way onto the Hogwarts Express. It took them about 5 minutes before they found a compartment near the middle that had longer windows for what Hermione assured him were better views of the scenery.

Hermione fidgeted with one of her books for a minute before one of her hands dropped down to the seat. It didn't go unnoticed by Harry who was puzzled for a moment by the obvious action. Why did she do that? In a flash of understanding he knew.

She wants me to hold her hand, he thought.

Reaching out, he entwined his fingers in hers and gave her hand a reassuring squeeze.