This is how I imagined Harry would start developing feelings for Hermione as more than a friend (in my fanfiction). It only highlights the events that gradually builds Harry's feelings for Hermione. The scene in this chapter happened in canon but this is my fanfic addition to it. I decided to make it a full story instead of just a one shot due to having 8 followers and a positive review to expand.

Harry had received 3 Birthday presents on his 13th Birthday. He had unwrapped Ron's Pocket Sneakoscope and Hagrid's Monster Book which he had just finished battling. He loved Hagrid, but Hagrid sometimes had very bizarre ideas as to what was considered safe and dangerous.

His last gift was from Hermione. It was really heavy. Knowing Hermione, Harry was sure it was a large book of difficult spells. But he was pleasantly surprised. His heart gave a huge excited leap when he saw a sleek leather case stamped with the words "Broomstick Servicing Kit" in silver. "Wow Hermione" Harry thought to himself.

The kit came with all sorts of items to service his broom that Harry couldn't wait to use on his favorite possession, his Nimbus 2000. Harry was amazed by the gift from his bestfriend. But it also got him thinking. He had misjudged Hermione. He was pretty sure the gift was a book as he had only known Hermione to be a brainy bookworm. But, she really did know him. This gave Harry a warm feeling over Hermione.

Harry had always admired Hermione for being smart but he had never seen her beyond that. She was slowly proving to be more than just a brainy bookworm who was by the book when it came to following the rules. Even last year, she was willing to let loose and bend the rules to solve the mystery of the Chamber of Secrets. Harry also remembered the warm, fuzzy feeling he had when she gave him the very first hug he ever remembered at the end of his first year and how lost he felt when she was petrified during their second year.

Harry was starting to see Hermione in a new light. "You really are something special Hermione" Harry said softly, reminiscing about his friend. This made him smile to himself and blush. But then he caught himself. "Am I staring to fancy Hermione?" he asked himself. "No, she's one of your bestfriends. You're just having a new appreciation for the wonderful person and friend that she is. It doesn't mean you fancy her as more than a friend," Harry quickly told himself and brushed those feelings off. Nevertheless, he made a mental note to get Hermione something special for her upcoming Birthday.

This is my first attempt at a Harry/Hermione fanfic. Please review. And let me know if I should change anything about my style of writing. Thank you!

For a Next Generation story on Harry and Hermione's kids, please check out my fanfic, Harry Potter and the Perfect Child.