The Forest of Dean was silent except for the whisper of wind through the bare branches.
Snow drifted lazily to the ground, settling over the abandoned campsite Harry and Hermione had pitched only an hour earlier. Their tent looked almost swallowed by the white landscape.
Inside, however, it wasn't much warmer.
Hermione sat wrapped in two jumpers and a thick blanket, her knees tucked against her chest as she studied one of Dumbledore's books.
Harry knelt beside the tiny blue flames Hermione had conjured.
"They're not doing much," he muttered.
"They're not meant to replace central heating," Hermione replied without looking up.
Harry sighed.
"I know."
Silence settled between them again.
It had become normal since Ron had left.
Not uncomfortable exactly...
Just... quieter.
Harry still caught himself glancing towards the tent flap every now and then, almost expecting Ron to stomp back inside complaining about the cold or asking what was for dinner.
He never did.
Hermione turned another page before rubbing at her nose absentmindedly.
Harry noticed.
"You alright?"
"Hm?"
"You keep rubbing your nose."
She sniffed once.
"It's freezing in here."
"I know."
She gave a tiny smile.
"I'll survive."
Harry hoped so.
That evening wasn't much better.
Dinner consisted of tinned soup stretched between the two of them and half a stale loaf they'd managed to buy days earlier.
Harry pushed his spoon around his bowl.
"I miss Mrs Weasley's cooking."
Hermione laughed softly.
"So do I."
"Even the Brussels sprouts."
"Now I know you're lying."
He grinned.
For the first time in days, it almost felt normal.
Hermione suddenly paused.
...Hh...
Harry looked up.
Hermione frowned, pressing two fingers beneath her nose.
...hh...
The tickle disappeared.
She sighed softly.
"False alarm."
"What?"
"Nothing."
She returned to eating.
The next morning they packed the tent before sunrise.
The snow had turned to icy rain.
Their cloaks quickly became soaked.
YOU ARE READING
Now We Carry You
FanfictionHermione has always been the one with the answers, the courage, and the strength to keep Harry and Ron moving forward. But when their journey takes its toll, Harry must learn what it means to be the one who stays, protects, and refuses to give up.
