DESIRES
the sequel to SECRETS

Two: Pick-up

"I don't understand why the two of you are so tired! It's not like you are the ones who tried on seven billion dresses!" Quinn and Hermione rolled their eyes at Ginny's exaggerations, each sipping on their cocktails.

"Gin, Q just got out of work before we met you, and I have been running around all day trying to find the perfect bags for your wedding favors. I think we have a right to be a little tired."

Ginny grunted dismissively before turning to Quinn, "So, anything exciting happen today?"

Quinn shook her head, "Nope, same ol' same old. Angry women going into labor, demanding pain potions; screaming babies; frantic first time fathers nearly passing out at the miracle of it all."

"Oh please," demanded Hermione, "You love every minute of it."

Quinn chuckled, "That I do, 'Mione, that I do."

"So, why the look then?" Ginny question.

"What do you mean?" Quinn asked innocently.

"The look that says that you are lonely and miserable," Hermione stated.

"There is no look, I am fine."

"Q, you can't lie to us. We are your best friends. Despite what Bridezilla over hear may say, we both care about you and we are both worried."

"What's to be worried about? I'm fine, guys." Hermione shook her head, but allowed the subject to be changed. "So, Gin, any luck with the flowers?"

Ginny waved her hand dismissively, "Forget about flowers, check out the hottie at the bar!"

"Ginny!" Hermione exclaimed.

"What? So I can't touch, that doesn't mean that I have to become blind! Plus, I'm not looking for me, I'm looking for Quinn."

Quinn groaned as Hermione turned in the direction of the bar. "Oh, wow, you're right, Gin, he's gorgeous. Q, why don't you go up their and get us another round?"

Quinn rolled her eyes at her friends and reluctantly stood. She knew that if she didn't go now they would only pester her until she did, which would probably end up causing a scene.

As she sidled up to the bar, she caught sight of the man they had been referring to and giggled. The two hadn't even recognized him, which caused her to let out another chuckle. "Heya, Nev. How's it going?"

Neville Longbottom turned towards the familiar voice, a moment later recognition lit his eyes and he grinned broadly. "Hey, Quinn. All seems to be going well. What are you doing here?"

"Just grabbing a couple of drinks with Hermione and Ginny. We are on the hunt for Ginny's perfect Wedding gown. She and Harry are set to marry in June."

Neville nodded, "Yeah, I saw the invitation the other day." He grabbed his drink from the bartender as Quinn ordered. "So, uh, who are you taking to the wedding?"

Quinn looked thoughtful for a moment, "Well, I haven't really thought of it. I'll probably end up going alone."

"Well, that won't do. How about we go together, as friends."

"That would be nice." Quinn agreed.

"Great, well, I've got to get back to the boys, but can I send you an owl sometime? Maybe we can grab some dinner and get caught up."

"Sure," Quinn smiled. "See you later."

"Bye, Quinn."

As Quinn approached the table, the two girls couldn't keep the grins off of their faces. Quinn smirked and set the glasses down.

"So…How'd it go?" Hermione asked impatiently.

"Well, let's see, you tried to set me up with none other than Neville Longbottom."

"What?" Ginny exclaimed.

"Neville?" asked Hermione.

"Yes, Neville."

"Wow, I barely recognize him."

"Barely? You had no idea!" Quinn laughed.

"Oh, yeah, well how did you know?"

"He's an herbalist at St. Mungo's."

"Well, damn." Hermione sighed.

"I do, however, now have a date for the wedding, so will the two of you please refrain from attempting to set me up with anyone else?"

"That's cheating, Q! You are supposed to get a real date."

"Neville is a real date," Quinn countered.

"Are you going to take him home after the reception?" Ginny asked.

Quinn blushed, "Ginny!"

"Q," Hermione began, "We are only trying to help. It's time that you start moving on. All three of us know that you are unhappy with your life right now. Just promise us that you will at least try to go out on at least one date before the wedding?"

Quinn shook her head softly.

"Quinn," Hermione called in a warning tone.

"Fine." She finally agreed.