A/N: I revisited "Stop The Question" while writing "The Real Thing" and I thought that some of the readers might've thought the story could do with a sequel which is why I decided to write it. Just like "Stop The Question" this story is being written as I go along with it. I do have in mind some major plot lines ahead but just like in the original, I will be open to any suggestions of what you'd like to see. I really hope you like it as much as "Stop The Question" as it wont be as frustrating because they're already together. So enjoy and as always please, please review!

Harry stared out the window, watching the trees bend over from the force of the wind. There was a severe rain storm outside and the wind was pounding against the window pane. Harry looked down to the sleeping form curled beside him. His girlfriend of three years who also happened to be his best friend of seventeen years was laying beside him. They had been watching a movie, something that had become a tradition to them for the last five years and it was something not many other wizards or witches did. For them it was an escape from their ever publicized world and a way to keep their muggle upbringing alive.

He looked down at her, a small smile forming on his lips. It was not long ago that he feared that what he was living would never happen. Three years ago he had made so many mistakes with her and it seemed surreal that he finally got to fulfill a long held dream. Things had not gone all smoothly through the three years of couple hood either. There had been plenty of fights, and separation but in the end they always resolved it because they couldn't bare to be without each other. Things were finally going smoothly. Harry was still a very successful Quidditch player and Hermione was a sought after Magical lawyer and Magical creatures rights activist. They were a favorite target of the Daily Prophet which usually printed out lies because neither they nor their close friends would comment. For that they were very grateful, for they did not want anything ruining their much deserved bliss.

"Hermione" said Harry softly. Rubbing her shoulder to wake her.

"Mmm?" she replied, her eyes still shut.

"Lets go to bed so you're more comfortable." Harry said.

"Mmmhmm" she agreed.

Harry sat there waiting for her to get up and follow him but it appeared she had not really listened to what he had said. He got up and carefully gathered her into his arms. It wasn't all that odd that he found himself doing this at least twice a week. He was starting to think Hermione was doing it on purpose so that he could carry her. He placed her gently on the bed and tucked her in. All the while she never stirred. Harry had come to learn she was a heavy sleeper and that she had even acknowledged him a few minutes ago was a miracle. He went to the living room and turned off all the lights with a flick of his wand and joined Hermione. It didn't take long before he too drifted off to blissful sleep.

Hermione turned over due to the vast amount of sunlight hitting her face from the window in front. She opened her eyes and turned on her other side. She found herself face to face with Harry, who still had a arm draped around her and was still blissfully asleep. Hermione smiled fondly at him. She was really happy with him, just as she had always imagined she would be. She still had moments where she thought that it was all a very realistic dream but not at all reality. It had taken them a while to get to the point where they were now. It took being unhappy with other people to realize they were perfect for each other.

Hermione grabbed Harry's shoulder and shook him gently. It was almost eight and he would be leaving to Quidditch training soon.

Harry groaned and turned away from her.

Hermione laughed and rolled slightly on top of him to reach his ear.

"Wake up!" she whispered roughly.

"Five more minutes." Harry moaned.

"Fine…I'm sure Nigel will be okay with you being late." said Hermione, knowing fully well that mentioning Nigel's name would perk him up.

As expected, Harry's snapped wide open.

"Thanks for that." said Harry gruffly. "Good morning"

Hermione smiled in response.

"Sorry I had to result to desperate measures."

"That's okay." said Harry.

"Just out of curiosity…how did we make it here. didn't we fall asleep in the living room?" Hermione asked.

"Correction, you fell asleep and I carried you in here." said Harry. "I'm starting to think you like being carried to bed every night."

"Maybe" said Hermione mischievously.

Harry turned over on his back and groaned, staring up at the high ceiling.

"I really don't feel like going to practice today." he whined.

"Then don't" said Hermione curling up closer to him, an arm draped lazily over his firm stomach.

"You, Hermione Jane Granger are suggesting that I skive off practice?" Harry asked incredulously.

"I'm skiving off work." Hermione replied indifferently.

"No, there's a difference. You were given the day off because you're your own boss." Harry corrected her. "So you're not skiving off anything."

"Have to love those perks huh?" Hermione asked impishly.

With slight difficulty, Harry peeled the covers off him and got himself out of the bed. He made his way toward the dresser where his clothes were neatly arranged. Courtesy of Hermione of course.

"So what will you be doing on your day off?" Harry asked as he put on his trousers.

"Sleep in a little longer." Hermione said. "And pay Luna a visit.

"That's good. We haven't seen Ron and Luna in a while." said Harry as he put on his trainers.

"I know" said Hermione pensively.

After a couple of minutes, Harry was fully dressed and ready to head out to his Quidditch practice.

"Well, I'm off" he said brightly.

"Do you want me to fix you up a quick breakfast?" Hermione asked sweetly.

Harry leaned over the bed and gave Hermione a small peck on the lips.

"That's okay love, I'll grab something on the way."

"See you later."

Hermione watched as Harry dissaparated before her then grabbed the covers and slipped deeply within them and fell asleep swiftly once again.

* * * * * *

With a Pop Hermione apparated at Ron and Luna's place. It was a house far different than those of which they both came from. It was…normal for lack a of a better word. It was a two story cottage with a soothing light green paint job. There was huge apple tree in the front lawn, with a swing hanging from one of it's thick branches. There were many telltale signs that small children lived in the house with peculiar parents. There were odd sculptures on the porch that Hermione could easily identify as Luna's work. She had taken to making sculptures while she was on maternity leave and had kept up with it ever since.

Hermione walked up the curvy cobblestone walkway that led up the porch and up to the dark green door. She knocked on the door firmly.

The door opened up and Hermione was greeted with the sight of the bubbly blonde.

Hermione!" squealed Luna. "Come in"

"Hello Luna." said Hermione smiling broadly.

"You want anything to drink?" Luna asked as she led Hermione to her small but warm living room.

"No thanks I'm fine"

"It's so nice to see you! I feel like I hardly get to see you or Harry anymore."

"I know." said Hermione. " It's just that Harry's been so high in demand since he won for England in the Quidditch World Cup. And I've been thrown everywhere on cases of magical creature abuse and former death eaters going on parole…it's been a whirlwind."

"Understandably. You two are at the height of your careers." said Luna. "But you two aren't completely to blame, I have been completely locked in with Darwin with him starting to walk and all."

Hermione smiled at the mention of her young godson.

"How is little Darwin?" she asked curiously.

"He's up taking a kip. He knackers out easily now that he's mobile." said Luna laughing.

"And where's my darling little Skyelar?" Hermione asked.

Skyelar was Ron and Luna's first born, a rambunctious three year old with curiosity of her mother and the habit of saying whatever came to her small little head, it was hard to pinpoint if was from Ron or Luna she got it from.

"I'm surprised she isn't down yet, she's always rushing down when she hears the door open." said Luna.

"How is her underage magic acting up?" Hermione asked curiously.

"It's horrible, when I take her up for bed and tuck her in, I find her in her the living room playing with her dolls."

"She's apparating already?" asked Hermione stunned.

Luna nodded.

"My dad said I did all the time."

Hermione smiled. "I remember that before I was knew I was a witch, I used to be scared of the things I'd do."

"What did you do?" Luna asked.

"Well I remember this one incident where we had to do a show and tell where this mean little girl named Emma Johannon hid my dentist tools I had brought to show, I looked everywhere and couldn't find them," said Hermione chuckling. " I was angry and her doll's hair just inexplicably burst into flames. When it was my turn I remember I was so afraid of failing and my stuff just showed up in my desk ."

"You must've done Accio nonverbally." said Luna astonished.

"Most likely." Hermione shrugged. "All I know is that after that incident all the other kids would keep away from me and call me weird."

"Muggle children can be so cruel…well children in general really." said Luna pensively.

The small silence was broken with a loud wail that came from upstairs.

"Well, apparently Darwin's done napping." said Luna sighing as she got up.

"I'll go with you, haven't seen him in ages." said Hermione.

Hermione followed Luna up the spiral staircase. The house was surprisingly nicely decorated, which stunned Hermione because she knew how eccentric Luna could be. Luna pushed the door that led to t he nursery. There was a crescent moon figure attached to the pale yellow door. The wailing grew louder as Luna opened the door.

Luna walked toward Darwin and got him out of his crib. Darwin resembled Ron but had Luna's big , pale blue eyes. He had the infamous Weasley freckles and Ron's long nose. He was only seven months old and was already showing signs of having a hearty appetite like his father.

Hermione smiled warmly as Luna cooed at her son. He seemed to have been crying for attention because he immediately ceased when he saw was in Luna's arms

"He's too adorable." said Hermione.

"It may be biased of me but I completely agree. He takes after his daddy." said Luna , lovingly cuddling Darwin.

Darwin's name had been Hermione's idea. Luna, being the curious person she was, asked Hermione to give her some muggle books and when she read "The Theory of Evolution" and heard how controversial it had been when it first came out, she knew it was the perfect name.

"You want to hold him for a little?" Luna asked looking over at Hermione who was looking at the decorations of the room."

"I'd love to" Hermione answered.

Luna handed Darwin to Hermione. Hermione had been afraid to carry a baby when Skyelar was born. Being an only child, she never really held one or knew how to do so properly. However, after Skyelar, she became an expert and carried Darwin with utmost confidence. She grabbed him firmly around his midsection and held him at arms length, making funny faces at him and drawing him close for a kiss on the cheek which made the baby squeal with delight.

"How long before you have one of your own?" Luna asked curiously as she watched Hermione fondly playing with Darwin.

Hermione laughed.

"I don't know, Harry and I haven't even gotten married yet. A baby's certainly out of the question right now no?"

"Speaking of which…when are you two going to get around to that?" Luna asked in her usual blunt manner.

Hermione thought about what she was going to say. It had just occurred to her that not once in the three years she had been Harry's girlfriend had the topic of marriage ever come up. She looked down at Darwin pensively.

"I don't know… we've never even talked about it."

"Really?!" Luna asked dubiously. "What could you two possibly be waiting for? You've known each other forever!"

"Well… we like where we are at the moment. Also, if Harry hasn't brought it up…maybe he doesn't want to get married." said Hermione.

"I seriously doubt that." said Luna.

Hermione handed Darwin back to Luna, delicately.

"Why are you so certain?" Hermione asked.

"Well, think of this." said Luna. "We're talking about the same guy who was practically petrified to tell you how he felt three years ago. you honestly think he would not be afraid of mentioning marriage to you?"

"But Harry's so brave, and we know each other so well." said Hermione reasonably. "I really don't see the fear in it."

"All guys are terrified of marriage, even talking about it." said Luna putting Darwin back in his crib. "Ron would turn white as a sheet when I would bring it up, I don't know how he ever mustered the courage to propose."

Hermione laughed.

"Leave it to guys to act like proposing is like a walk to the guillotine." she mused.

"Yes…" said Luna laughing " you do want to get married though don't you?"

"of course I do." said Hermione without hesitation. " I always have. And I've been noticing that most of my friends are married and having children…but I'm also happy at where I am with Harry. Could marriage really make a difference?"

"No…but it's like you're legally stating your love for someone, letting everyone know your search is over." said Luna. "It's really hard to explain unless your married, it's a wonderful feeling."

"Well…come to think of it, maybe I should start subtly bringing it up." said Hermione. "I'm positive Harry's the only man I could ever want. I love him so much."

Luna smiled fondly.

"He does too, it's so clear to everyone you two are truly in love." she said amicably. "you know, it's actually quite funny….all of us have been secretly wondering and predicting when you two will tie the knot, you're the only ones left."

"I see my love life is becoming a hot topic once again." said Hermione in jest.

"Well, that comes with the territory of being Harry Potter's girlfriend." said Luna laughing.

"Auntie Hermy, Auntie Hermy!" screamed a shrill little voice.

Luna and Hermione turned around to see Skyelar bursting into the nursery. The little blonde girl rushed toward Hermione and hugged her fiercely around the knees almost knocking her over.

"Hello my darling Skye!" exclaimed Hermione bending over to hug her goddaughter.

Despite having no blood or marital relation with Ron or Luna, Harry and Hermione were referred to Auntie Hermy and Uncle Harry by Skyelar. Ron and Luna encouraged it because Harry and Hermione really were like Ron's brother and sister.

"Where were you hiding young lady? I've been here for a long time." said Hermione kneeling down to Skyelar's height.

"I was playing tea with daddy but he went sleepy…" said Skyelar pouting.

"Aww your daddy's a Meany falling asleep on you like that." said Hermione.

"Uncle Harry?" Skyelar asked.

"He's practicing Quidditch right now sweetie, he wants to make sure he does his best for when you go see him this Saturday." Hermione explained.

Skyelar was really attached to both Harry and Hermione who spoiled her relentlessly. Harry and Hermione had argued on getting a toddler broom for her which Hermione was steadfastly against. Harry still hadn't bought it, though Hermione knew it was only a matter of time before he or Ron did.

"Skyelar darling, it's time for your nap." said Luna smoothly.

"Auntie Hermy is here." Skyelar argued.

"Tell you what, you be a good girl and take your nap, and I promise I'll take out some time to come here tomorrow and play tea with you all right?" Hermione said.

Skyelar nodded fervently, her blonde curls bopping up and down.

Luna knelt down and grabbed Skyelar.

"Sorry, to cut it short Luna but I want to go cook Harry a muggle meal. it's one of those things I do when I have a day off."

"Sure Hermione. I'll see you tomorrow then, and again on Saturday for Harry's match." said Luna giving Hermione a kiss on the cheek.

"You be a good girl Skye all right?" Hermione asked.

Skyelar smiled at her.

"Bye."

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Hermione was fast asleep on the sofa. She had fallen asleep while waiting for Harry to come home from Quidditch practice. She had been reading to kill the time and lost track of time. The noise of her stomach rumbling from hunger woke her up, just in time as Harry apparated into the flat.

"Sorry I'm late love, you know what a slave driver Nigel can be." said Harry apologetically.

"It's time like these, I'm thankful for magic, otherwise you'd have to microwave dinner and you know that's never the same."

Hermione raised her wand to the chicken rotisserie she had prepared the muggle way. With a flick she reheated it to the point were it was back to its original fleshly cooked state.

"Smells delicious." said Harry sniffing the air.

He walked toward her and enveloped her in a loving hug before he kissed her softly.

"I missed you, you have no idea how badly I wanted to ditch practice and come here straightaway so we could be cuddled up in bed together." said Harry roguishly.

"And have Harry Potter admirers sending Howlers at me for distracting their Quidditch star?" said Hermione amusedly. "No thanks."

"They can be tad unreasonable at times can't they?" said Harry laughing.

"Yes, you'd be surprised how many people still aren't over the 'Harry potter's Secret Heartache' article that horrid Rita Skeeter wrote." said Hermione bitterly.

"Lets not talk about unpleasant topics. Lets go eat…that chicken is screaming my name."

Harry and Hermione made their way to their small dining table. With a flick of her wand, Hermione levitated the chicken, sides, and drinks to the table.

"How are Ron, Luna and the kids?" Harry asked devouring a drumstick.

"Very good. Darwin is getting so big, and Skyelar is apparating everywhere." said Hermione fondly.

"Really, already?" Harry asked.

"Yes, it seems she got Luna's brightness." said Hermione. "You enjoyed dinner?"

Harry nodded.

"I have a feeling I'll enjoy dessert more though." said Harry impishly.

"Harry!" said Hermione.

"Don't like the sound of it?" Harry asked pouting.

"No, you know it isn't that." said Hermione. "it's just that I have a really early morning tomorrow and I'm going to turn in an hour, I need some time for my dinner to settle."

"There are other ways for it to settle." said Harry winking at her playfully.

"Not tonight." said Hermione firmly but not harshly.

"Oh all right, you're excused…" said Harry. "just for tonight."

"Thank you." said Hermione laughing.

"Will you be wanting to be carried off to bed once again Ms. Granger?" Harry asked jokingly.

"No, not tonight." said Hermione settling in her favorite slouchy chair next to the book case. "I know you're probably sore from practice."

"Very actually…that Nigel could give Oliver Wood a run for his money." said Harry wearily.

Hermione looked at him.

"Looks like the heavy dinner has reminded you of how tired you really are." she said amusedly.

"I guess it has." said Harry sitting in the couch next to her.

An hour passed and Hermione closed the book she had been reading. Just as she had mentioned, she was turning in for the night. She'd have to be in her office bright and early if she was to have time to play tea with Skyelar like she had promised. She noticed Harry had left the living room at some point. He was probably watching TV in their room or brushing his teeth.

"Nox." Hermione muttered, turning off all the lights

Rapidly, she changed into her comfortable pajamas and slipped under the covers. Harry soon joined her and threw an arm around her. Together they slowly drifted off to sleep

A/N: I'm sorry if it was a boring start, but as you know from my stories, my stories don't usually start of with wham bam action. I do hope you give It a chance, as it is a sequel to Stop the Question which was fairly popular. I just wanted to show the readers what Harry and Hermione's relationship had developed into after "Stop The Question" please review!