SHIP: That Darned Kiss--The Problem With Reading R/H in GoF

[Marie Jadewalker <marie_mouse@hotmail.com>]

No: HPFGUIDX 50168

Hi Ebony,

First I wanted to say that I really enjoyed both of these essays, as 
well as the ones over at Fiction Alley.  I've been reading shipping 
arguements avidly recently to make sure I'm firm in my shipping 
preferances and that they weren't unduly influenced by fanfic.  (I 
read everything Penny linked to from the future pairings FAQ and I'm 
trying to work my way through the Fiction Alley thread.)  Having done 
so, I can say without question that I support the future relationship 
of Harry and Hermione.  There are many reasons, but few of them would 
be new.  

Partly to keep this from being a complete "Me too" post, I wanted to 
point out one more thing that might help your argument:  (From 
Padfoot Returns, p. 513 in my copy)

"There's something funny, though," said Hermione ten minutes later, 
holding her pestle suspended over a bowl of scarab beetles. "How 
could Rita Skeeter have known . . . ?"

"Known what?" said Ron quickly. "You haven't been mixing up Love 
Potions, have you?"

I know Ebony quoted more of this passage to point out that Hermione's 
blushes are most likely related to being noticed and desired by a 
much sought-after boy, rather than Ron specifically.  (I agree with 
that analysis fully, having been a bookish type who was rarely 
noticed myself.)  However, I noticed that this is another example of 
Ron doubting his friends.  He didn't believe Harry about the Goblet 
or that Hermione would actually have a date, and now he even has to 
*ask* whether or not she's been mixing up love potions?  Honestly, 
doesn't he know her at all?  If I were Hermione, I'd be quite 
offended hearing that out of the mouth of my friend (from Rita or a 
Slytherin it's so ridiculous I wouldn't care).  Now obviously Ron 
likes her and is jealous of Krum, so perhaps he's grasping at straws 
for an explanation, but it still doesn't seem like a question a 
friend should have to ask.  

~Marie, who would love to join the SS H/H if there are any openings 
still available.