Fantastic chapter. Really, really good. I think this is the finest chapter of the story so far.
This thing with Hermione was wonderful. I think Hermione would make a wonderful primary wife for Harry. If I was Harry the only thing I would change is to make an amendment to their rules at their next meeting (you could justify it as greater emotional insight due to his strengthened bond with Gabby). At his next meeting I would ask that one of the rules be that they are both open, just open, to the possibility of being more than just fuck buddies. That in their hearts and minds they are open to it; that that possibility is there and that they will be scrupulously honest with each other if they start to feel like they want more. (Maybe a magical oath on that topic??) Hermione pining for Ron makes me cringe.
On a happier note, Hermione’s list of things to do makes me really excited. I think that girl will come up with some great stuff. Great plot device. You can work in so many different genres of eroticism with that tool. I can’t wait! If I could offer some unsolicited advice, I think the first several times with Hermione should not involve Gabby. They really need to work on being alone together without the additional complexity that another person would give. It would radically limit the intimacy and love that could be achieved if there was someone else involved.
Harry’s comments to Hermione about betraying Ron made me want to torture/kill Harry for being a retarded idiot. If you have to constantly watch what you say to your supposed best friend to avoid a meltdown, then they are NOT your best friend! It was so amazingly stupid of Harry to even say this out loud when Ron and Lavendar are together. F@#k Ron. If Harry didn’t have these crippling abandonment issues from the Dursleys can you see them staying friends? I don’t. I wish for Ron’s most painful death…soon. Maybe Gabrielle and Hermione can talk some sense into the retard.
Great stuff in enhancing the bond with Gabby. Really great writing there. I can’t help but think that this greater connection will make Harry, obviously, a better lover, but even more importantly, a better man. Again, maybe she can help him work out the issues which are holding him back.
Again, great work. I’m looking forward to the next chapter.