Prize for Flash Challenge Friday June 20th, 2018
Prompt: Harry seeking comfort
Dedication: Magi Silverwolf
Word Count: 300
Harry had enough.
He thought the fawning from Ginny would fade as she matured, but years ticked by, the grief of war past them, school was over, and jobs were pursued, but the child-like infatuation remained. Every date she anticipated a proposal, and when it never came, Molly got involved.
That was the final straw.
Though grateful for everything the Weasley's had done, Harry couldn't stand the obvious hints from the family about needing to settle down. So, during supper one night, he excused himself and fled via broom across the fields.
The glimmer of moonlight sparkled off the ponds surface where he landed. Satisfied that no one was chasing after him, he settled down in the soft grass.
The figure that approached him was as quiet as a field mouse, but Harry wasn't startled by Luna's sudden arrival. They often met here when Harry needed to get out of the Burrow.
"They're doing it again," she acknowledged, sitting down beside him. "You'll get stress lines that way. They age you."
Luna gently brushed her fingers over Harry's brow, feeling them soften at her touch.
"It's getting worse. I can't handle their insufferable antics any longer," Harry snapped, anger flaring. "It's over."
"And Ginny?"
He swallowed hard before meeting her eyes. "She's become-or always was?-just as bad if not worse. I am done with the smothering."
"Good," Luna said, nodding an approval.
She brushed the fringe from Harry's brow before running her hand and fingers through his hair. Harry leaned into Luna and basked in the gentle head massage and quiet gurgles from the pond.
"You can always disappear with me," she reminded, pulling Harry from his trance. "I have a lead in Canada about a Qiqirn."
"You know," Harry started, gently nuzzling her shoulder. "I think I will."