Harry didn't return for 8th year. Harry instead disappeared.

Hermione and Ron had stared at the note he left on the kitchen table in Griumland place.

"Do you think he'll come back mionie?" Ron asked quietly, swallowing harshly after he spoke.
"I don't know" Hermione whispered a tear running down her cheek.
"What are we supposed to do?" Ron asked helplessly.
"I don't know" She replied again before resting her head on Ron's shoulder, feeling guilt and pain fill her chest.

I love you, but I can't do this anymore. I'm going away for a while please don't try to find me.

After a year Hermione and Ron were sitting by the fire in Hogwarts.
"He's not coming back is he?" Ron asked, looking distantly into the fire.
"I don't think he is" Hermione finally admitted.

After all there had been no contact from Harry since that note. So Hermione and Ron grasped each other's hands and let the loneliness draw over them again.