A/N: I wanted to go ahead and take a moment to explain the whole obsession with time in my story. J.K. Rowling wrote a line in The Deathly Hollows that really stuck with me. The line is Harry's internal justification to seeing Ginny and not stopping to talk to her. This is the quote. "There would be time to talk later, hours and days and maybe years in which to talk." ( J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and The Death Hollows, P. 747) Because of this line I really wanted Harry to continually face time. In the beginning by hours, later by days and years.
This is a significantly longer chapter as the 4th of May was a significantly longer day. It also has some "intimate" moments between Harry and Ginny. If you want to keep an innocent view on their relationship, my story is not the one for you. Seriously, don't read it. I'm not going to put special lines where the mature rating takes affect. It has that rating for a reason. However, I will put LEMONS in the A/N when necessary. That being said. I hope you enjoy.
4 May 1998
11:30ish am
"It's been two days."
Harry became distinctly aware that someone was having a conversation in the room.
"'Mione, Relax. Kreacher said he was up earlier this morning. He left him some food, and look at how much better he looks, not to mention smells. He clearly is not dying and just needs to sleep."
Okay. Hermione and Ron were having a conversation in the room. About him.
"Ronald." Hermione sounded completely brassed off. "Madam Pomfrey needs to see him. Who knows how bad his injuries are. You heard Hagrid," She dropped her voice to a whisper "he was hit with the killing curse."
"And I might ask someone to take another go at it if you two don't bugger off and let a man sleep."
"Harry!" Both Hermione and Ron exclaimed.
"I'm sorry Harry... i thought you were asleep. It's just..."
"You've been dead to the world mate. Yesterday Mum came in here and tried to wake you, she wanted to make sure you ate something, but you didn't even budge. She had to call in Madam Pomfrey just to make sure you weren't... you know."
"Well thanks mate. I'm glad i'm not... you know. And Hermione I'm okay, really. Like Ron said, I ate something this morning. Last night i looked over my injuries and it's nothing that won't heal over time." Harry let out a small bit of laughter. "I've had worse you know. Remember when that dragon tried to kill me in our 4th year? or when..."
"All the same Potter, I would still like Madam Pomfrey to examine you and make her own assessment of your injuries."
All three of them jumped as Professor McGonagall, followed by Madam Pomfrey appeared in the boys' dormitory. Harry didn't even have time to grab his wand.
"I'm sorry to frighten you, But as I have been named the temporary Headmistress of the school I must insist that you all be examined by Madam Pomfrey. Miss Granger," Hermione's facial expressions went from startled to petrified. We all knew what was coming next. "as this is the boys dormitory I would not have expected to see you up here. You should be well aware of this rule by now, but given the certain circumstances I will allow this to slip by this once, please wait for Mr. Weasley and Mr. Potter in the common room from now on." Hermione nodded her head in agreement, eyes still wide, and slipped out of the room as quickly and quietly as she could manage. Only saying "Excuse me" as she squeezed past Madam Pomfrey.
Now Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley, I need you both to do as Madam Pomfrey says and submit yourself to this exam. Once she says you are able to go, Please come down to the Great Hall. I have quite a few announcements to make and Minister Shacklebolt will be here at 12:30 to make some announcements as well. Please do not..."
"Excuse me, but did you say that Kingsley, Kingsley Shacklebolt, is the new Minister of Magic?" Harry asked, overjoyed with what that statement would mean for England's Ministry of Magic and how that would help everyone, witches, wizards, and Muggles alike, rebuild and move forward so much faster.
"Yes Mr. Potter, just as I have been named temporary Headmistress of Hogwarts, Mr. Shacklebolt has been named temporary Minister of Magic."
"So both of you are only temporary?"
"I feel sure when i say that Mr. Shacklebolt will stay on as Minister of Magic. I on the other hand have become rather aged. I only intend to stay Headmistress until a more suitable replacement can be found. Now as I was saying... Let Madam Pomfrey make her assessments and attend to any wounds. Then be down in the Great Hall by 12:30. Please do not be late." And with that she spun on her heels and left their dorm. Ron and Harry looked over at each other. Wordlessly agreeing that some things never change.
"Alright you two. Off with your shirts. You should have come straight to me as soon as the war was over. I know that I was very busy, but it should not have taken me 48 hours to get my hands on the both of you. Especially you Mr. Potter."
Ron tried to fight back laughter but a small laugh managed to escape his lips. He tried to cover it up with a cough but Madam Pomfrey saw right through it. "Shall we start with you then Mr. Weasley?" Now it was Harry's turn to laugh and Ron's face showed his irritation at being checked over for injuries. Madame Pomfrey quickly determined that Ron did not have any major injuries although his pinkie toe was broken. "Episkey" and with the wave of her wand, Ron's toe was fixed good as new. By this point Harry was almost doubled over in laughter. He was never going to let him live this down. Now your turn Mr. Potter. I would assume..." But by then Harry had already removed his shirt, revealing his cuts and scars. Both Ron and Madam Pomfrey stared as they took it all in.
"What would you assume, Madam Pomfrey?" Harry finally asked, trying to break the awkward silence that was building.
Madam Pomfrey quickly snapped out of it, having more tact that Ron. "I would assume that your injuries would be worse that Mr. Weasley's as you have just confirmed. Now let me see what I can do." and with that she quickly went to work, every now and then saying "Episkey", to fix something, and "Ferula", to bandage. All the while Ron stood staring. Open mouthed and fixated on his scars. His eyes, like Harry's found the biggest one first, then the bite marks, followed by the many other scars that now covered his torso, and finally stopping at the little scar above his heart. Harry was just about to say something to Ron when Madam Pomfrey finally stopped poking and prodding at him. He quickly grabbed his shirt and and pulled it on as quickly as he could.
"Alright you two. You are all patched up. Mr. Weasley, your toe should be fine in a day or two. Don't do any extraneous amounts of walking and you should be fine. Come and see me if you think its broken again." She then switched her view from Ron to Harry. "You on the other hand, Mr. Potter, need to come see me tonight so that i can put fresh bandages on your wounds. I am going to keep you over night and if your more serious injuries have started to heal by tomorrow afternoon, then you are free to help out with minor tasks at your home." Once Harry had put his shirt back on Ron eyes had moved up to Harry's and he'd been staring at him wide eyed ever since. Not blinking once. "Here are some creams to help with the bruising, and some pills to help with the pain. Take one right now and then head straight down to the Great Hall. Eat some food, then take another. I expect you no latter than 8:00pm. I know that you will be very busy until then so you both better get moving." She then set the bottles down on his nightstand and left the room. Then instant the door closed Ron was blinking and speaking again.
As Harry popped a pill Ron asked, "I knew you were pretty beat up mate, but I didn't know you were this beat up."
"You know I almost preferred you wide eyed and gaping at me. At least then it was quiet." said Harry as he slipped on a pair of jeans and trainers.
"Come off it Harry. It's kind of hard to believe that you survived it all. Can I ask what the big one in the center of your chest is from?"
Harry looked down at Neville's watch, which was still on his night stand. 12:20pm. "Look Ron, It's a really long story and seeing as how we're supposed to be in the Great Hall in 10 minutes, now isn't really the time to catch on."
Ron thought about this for a minute and then added in all seriousness. "Yeah i guess your right. I don't really fancy being turned into a pocket watch today." With this they both burst out laughing and continued laughing all the way down the stairs.
Once they reached the bottom however, Hermione's facial expression made them both stop laughing and look very solemn and serious. "What took you so long? She said not to be late. And now... we're going to be late!" Hermione looked truly worried and both boys couldn't help but snicker. "It's not funny! She was already upset with me once today and if i want to be Head Girl next year than I absolutely can not be late." The distress in her voice is what sent them over the edge. In an instant they were both on the floor laughing so hard tears were streaming down their cheeks. Hermione let out a giggle, realizing her defeat and seeing the amusement in her own statements. "Honestly you two, did Madam Pomfrey check out your brains as well? I think you both might have been hit with a Jelly-Brain Jinx." With this, a new roar of laughter came from the two boys on the ground and Hermione had no choice but to let them laugh it out.
Eventually the laughter subsided and both Harry and Ron found themselves, somewhat, walking towards the great hall. Ron was trying to soothe Hermione as the time was now 12:32.
"'Mione, we are with bloody Harry Potter, he killed He Who Must Not Be Named. No one is going to get upset with him." When Hermione shot a still annoyed look at him, Ron quickly added, "Think of it as... showing up fashionable late, or whatever you witches call it when you make us blokes wait to eat for an extra hour." She seemed to calm down slightly at that, or maybe it was that they had finally reached the still filling up Great Hall. Which by the way, was already the fullest Harry had ever seen it. At once he froze up. Not only was almost every Hogwarts student there, as well as everyone who fought in the war, but there were also reporters everywhere, he instantly regretted not asking Madam Pomfrey to cut his hair, as well as several dozen official looking witches and wizards. But then he saw her. She was sitting between Bill and Charlie and they were sitting across from Percy and George, it was odd not thinking Fred's name in succession to George's.
She saw him then. Her eyes sparkled and her smile was practically from ear to ear. She looked radiant. He kept his eyes on her and walked straight towards her. He didn't care if he had to push either Bill or Charlie out of the way, he wanted to sit by Ginny. As he passed, the chatter died down and a new almost buzz started up.
"It's Harry Potter!"
"Mummy look! It's the boy who lived."
People started staring and pointing. Reporters started flashing their camera's. And with one look at the reporters, he realized that he couldn't drag her into the spotlight. Not when they were still on such shaky ground. But thankfully Mrs. Weasley was sitting next to Charlie and Harry just lifted his gaze to and walked straight over to Mrs. Weasley, pulling her into the biggest hug he had ever given her. With that the audience started to "Awe!" and "Oh how sweet." and the reporters snapped off a few more pictures, but their disappointment was evident. They were hoping for some juicy news.
When Harry finally let Mrs. Weasley go she had a few tear streaks on her cheek. She smiled at Harry, pinched his cheek and said "Thank you Harry dear, that was quite sweet of you." and then she was shifting over so that he could sit between her and Charlie. Charlie clapped his hand on Harry's shoulder and leaned in to whisper something in his ear.
"That was a nice save there mate. But if i ever see you look at my baby sister like again, I will have to report it to her other brothers. You may be the boy who lived as well as the chosen one, but you can't fight off all of her six..." Charlie paused and then corrected himself. "Five older brothers at once." He quickly pulled away gave Harry a mischievous smile and turned back towards the group of Weasley's who were clearly planning some sort of rebellion.
Harry took in what Charlie said, let out a sigh of relief and tried to make his own plan, in case he ever did need to fight off all six... five Weasley brothers at once. It was still so odd to no longer count Fred amongst them. Bill was the oldest and the wisest but, with his baby sister to his right and his wife to his left, he was clearly no threat. He loved these women. He would never want to hurt Harry, if it would hurt Ginny, and Harry knew that Fleur wouldn't want Bill to harm Harry either, after all he did save Gabrielle's life. Feeling already slightly better Harry continued. 'Okay four more to go.' Charlie, being a dragon tamer, is easiest the most daring of Ginny's brothers, but if he really wanted to harm Harry then he would have said something immediately and not have given him this warning. Moving on to... Percy. Percy could be a right git at times but he wasn't the type of guy who broke the rules. Although he does seem to be centrally involved in this very evident rebellion. 'Why am I the only one who can see that this is going on?' Harry asked himself.
He took a look around to try to answer his own question and realized that everyone, except him, Hermione, and the Weasley children were focused on the front table. Seated there were several important people discussing something last minute, while trying to get this started. Harry looked back over at his friends, no, his family, and tried to quickly finish his thoughts. George is the biggest threat. No question there. He does own Weasley's Wizard Wheezes. But George is really the only threat. Ron, while he would give both Harry and Ginny a hard time at first, is Harry's best friend so he had to come around to it, right? On second thought he would just have to count on Hermione convincing him to calm down. Harry smiled, pleased with himself. No need to worry, he and Ginny would be accepted. But then Harry thought about it and corrected himself. He and Ginny would be accepted, if Ginny would first accept him. His brows furrowed and he looked back up at the front table just in time to see Professor McGonagall hold her wand to her throat and mouth the word "Sonorus"
"Attention. May I have your attention please." with that everyone turned to face her, even the subversive group of Weasley children. Except for the clicking sound of a few camera's, the room was completely silent. "I am here today to introduce to the entire wizarding community, Mr. Kingsley Shacklebolt. Who has been named the official Minister of Magic. Congratulations Minister Shacklebolt." The room bust into applause, and a few 'Whoops' were let out from some of the younger crowd, as Professor McGonagall took her seat and Kingsley took her place at the stand, performing his own 'Sonorus' spell.
"It brings me both pleasure and sorrow to be giving this speech. The war is over. He-who-must-not-be-named is finally gone." Kingsley glanced over at Harry as he said that, and the rest of the room followed. Harry groaned internally and wished he had his invisibility cloak on. Then Kingsley cleared his throat and everyone turned their attention back to him. "But so many other friends, family, colleges, classmates, and role models are gone as well." Harry felt Mrs. Weasley stiffen at his words, and Harry put an arm around her. Hoping to comfort her in what had to be a really hard time.
"There are many changes in store for our world, but in order for them to take effect, I need your help. We need to rebuild our ministry and I need people that are eager to help rebuild our new world to apply. N.E.W.T.s scores, resumes, and applications should be submitted to the respected offices of which you are applying. If you aren't sure which office you would like to be in, just submit it to the help desk in the atrium and we will get you started working in the office we believe suits you best. On a more personal note, as I was the former head of the Auror department, I am sad to say that many of the Ministry's Aurors have been lost to this horrible war. Auror Proudfoot will be taking over my former position and has asked me to make this announcement"
As long as Dawlish wasn't the head of the Auror department, Harry felt sure that it would become thriving and successful again.
"We are taking Auror recruits early this year. While normally we only start Auror training on the 1st of January, this year we will be having it on the 1st of July as well. Please submit you N.E.W.T.s scores as well as your resume and application to the Auror Department on the third floor no later than the 1st of June of this year. This abnormality is due to the decrease in Aurors and the increase in our need of them. There are still many Death Eaters as well as His followers out there. We need to find them, catch them, bring them before the Wizengamot, and send the guilty to Azkaban."
Now it was Harry's turn to stiffen. So far two of his four internal questions had been answered. He only liked the answer to one of them. There are still Death Eaters out there and they need Aurors. Harry instantly wanted to help. He was going to apply to be an Auror.
"As my second act as the Minister of Magic, I am naming Professor Minerva McGonagall as the Headmistress of Hogwarts."
The room broke out into a deafening roar and Harry couldn't help but smile as the sound gave McGonagall quite a start.
"At this time I will allow her to..."
"But Minster we have a few questions for you!" One of the reporters called out. And when Harry looked over at the man, he noticed. for the first time, a petite woman with blonde curly hair and square framed glasses looking directly at Harry, quick notes quill whirring away. There was no mistaking her, even without her ugly green robes, it was Rita Skeeter. Harry had never been more relieved that he hadn't gone over to Ginny than at this exact moment. There is no telling what lies she would have spun this time.
"All questions will be answered at the end of her announcements. Now I give the floor over to Headmistress McGonagall."
McGonagall stepped up to the podium and began. "Hogwarts has been badly damaged. It will take the work of our wizarding community to help rebuild it. I plan to have it ready for the new school year on the 2nd of September." A groan left every student's mouth, except Hermione who looked like she had just won the Quidditch World Cup. Harry chuckled to himself, but then quickly stopped. Something Hermione said earlier just made sense. 'If I want to be Head Girl next year...' She had said those exact words. 'Next year.' A lump rose in Harry's throat. Hermione was going to come back to Hogwarts. Did that mean he and Ron would have to go back as well? He looked over at Ron and could see a panic stricken look across his face that Harry's must have mirrored. They made eye contact. There was no going back. They would never be able to go back to school at Hogwarts. It was their past and Harry especially, needed to keep moving forward.
"Seeing as the school will be open next year, I would like to give the students a few... options. There were many unnecessary lessons, many classes missed, many students left during the school year, and some students didn't attend Hogwarts at all."
With each word she spoke, Harry could literally see the school age occupants of Dumbledore's Army shrink lower and lower into their seats. But with the last words Hermione, Ron, and Harry wanted to be invisible. McGonagall was being a bit pointed.
That is why I am going to give a test to all the willing students, who were of age and should have been at school, for the 1997 - 1998 school year. This test is going to measure how much you learned the previous year and whether or not you are able to move forward in your education. The testing dates are listed in front of you." As she spoke, lists materialized in front of every person who was considered "school age."
Hogwarts Students 1997-1998
4 May, Monday
1st Years 4:00pm - 7:00pm
5 May, Tuesday
2nd Years 9:30am - 12:30pm
3rd Years 4:00pm - 7:00pm
6 May, Wednesday
4th Years 9:30am - 12:30pm
5th Years 2:00pm - 7:00pm
7 May, Thursday
6th Years 9:30am - 12:30pm
7th Years 2:00pm - 7:00pm
8 May, Friday
Apparition Training:
9:30am - 12:30pm
2:00pm - 4:30pm
Apparition Testing:
4:30pm - 7:00pm
"As you can see, two extra hours have been given to both the 5th and 7th Years as it is a longer exam. This is to determine what O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s, if any, you will be able to take. These exams will be held sometime before this upcoming school year. Look for the owl. 7th years, should you pass your N.E.W.T.s then you will graduate from Hogwarts. While it will be later in the season than normal, we will still have a ceremony for those students. Finally, for those who are of age by or on the 8th of May, and have not yet received an apparition license, may come to the training sessions and take their test that same day. If you do not pass, you will have to take it at the Ministry on a later date."
Harry was excited at that. He would now be able to legally apparate.
"Now I did say there would be options, so here they are." This sounded promising. "You do not have to take these exams if: You are willing to repeat the past school year over OR, You are of age and this past year would have been considered your last year at Hogwarts. While I must press the importance of the N.E.W.T.s and how your career will be most likely a higher paid position with them, some students may feel that their time at Hogwarts is over, and that is why they do not have to come back. Additionally, any student who would like to finish their last year at Hogwarts is more than welcome to do so. Hogwarts would love to have you." McGonagall's eyes found the three of them. She gave them a smile and then took her seat.
Kingsley stood back up and asked "Are there any questions?" Questions were instantly being fired off left and right. Harry paid no attention to them. But then Rita Skeeter spoke, and he was forced to pay attention.
"And what about 'the boy who lived?' What is the next move for the famous Harry Potter?"
All eyes turned to him as that tosser Rita Skeeter asked her bloody question. Harry stared back at her, his eyes narrowing. Kingsley quickly spoke up. "Ms. Skeeter, this is not an interview about Harry Potter, this is to inform the public about the rebuilding..."
"...Of our wizarding world." They finished together, but she continued on. "Yes, yes, we have obtained that message, but now the world wants to know about the most eligible bachelor of our day and age. What is next for the 'Chosen One'?" Kingsley seemed irritated and Harry could feel the anger rolling off of Ginny. But before Kingsley could say another word, or Ginny could hex Rita Skeeter, Harry stood up. The entire room gasped in unison as he put his wand to his throat. Said "Sonorus." and then looked her dead in the eyes. Rita was practically bubbling over with excitement until Harry very calmly stated, "No comment." He put the wand back to his throat and said "Quietus." And then he took his seat. He continued to sit there until Kingsley finished answering questions and insisted that everyone leave the Great Hall. No one had tried to talk to him, or about him, since Rita Skeeter. He did catch Hermione and Ron's sideways glances though. They never had been very good at hiding it.
After the Hall had cleared out a bit, Harry noticed Kingsley making his way over to where Harry, Hermione, and the Weasleys had met. "Ah! Arthur. I was hoping to have a word with you before you all had cleared out."
"Kingsley." Said Mr. Weasley as he clasped the Minister's hand and gave him a friendly smile. "What can I do for you?"
"It's more what your family can do for me Arthur. I know this a hard time for everyone." He gave an understanding glance to both Mrs. Weasley and George. "But I was wondering when you, as well as your boys, might be coming back to help at the Ministry?" Percy looked up and was already emitting the usual pompous air about him.
Mr. Weasley thought about this for a while before wrapping an arm around Mrs. Weasley's shoulders and answering him, "I do not intend to neglect the Ministry or the work that is going on there, but I would like to have, at least, a week or two off to be with my family."
"Of course Arthur. Might I ask that you send me an owl with the details for Fred, I would like to attend."
"Yes of course. Will you do the same for us? With Remus and Tonks?"
Kingsley nodded. "And when you come back I would like to make you the Head of the Office for the Detection and Confiscation of Counterfeit Defensive Spells and Protective Objects. I know you are very fond of the Department of Misuse of Muggle Artifacts, but I'm sure you will find a way to keep up with your hobby." He gave Mr. Weasley a sly grin and a wink. Mr. Weasley looked shell shocked. Harry knew from Ron, that he had never been promoted.
"Why of course Kingsley. Thank you!"
Mrs. Weasley reached up and kissed her husband on the cheek as the rest of the Weasley children crowded around to congratulate him. Kingsley nodded toward Arthur and then took his leave. Harry spared a smile to Mr. Weasley and then quickly went to catch up with Kingsley.
"Minister! May I have a word with you?"
Kingsley slowed his walking until Harry fell into step beside him. "It's just Kingsley to you Harry. What may I do for you?"
Once they were outside the Great Hall and Harry was sure that no one could over hear, he began. "Well, I want to help. I want to help catch the remaining Death Eaters. I don't plan on going back to Hogwarts. After everything that has happened this past year, it wouldn't feel right. Will you please allow me to become an Auror?"
Kingsley smiled. "I was hoping you would take this path. Your parents would be very proud. And I would be a fool not to accept you. Look for my owl Harry. We will meet soon to go over the formal paperwork."
"Thank you Kingsley." There were no words to describe how he felt. An Auror. He is going to get to be an Auror. Kingsley put his hand on Harry's shoulder, gave it a pat, and then continued on his way. Lost in his own thoughts, Harry didn't notice the quiet footsteps until Ginny was standing in front of him. Harry's heart skipped a beat and a flutter filled his stomach. She smiled at him.
"Hi." said Harry.
"Do you fancy a walk before you're forced into the slammer for the night?" Ginny smirked.
"How did you know I have to stay the night in the Hospital Wing?" He couldn't help but smile at her.
She lifted her wand, whirled it around, and whispered, "I have magical powers." They both broke into laughter and turned, heading towards the grounds outside. Hermione, Ron, and George were just leaving the Great Hall.
"Oi!" Ron bellowed. "Where are you two off to?" Harry looked back at them. Ron had his arms crossed, anger written across his face, and George just looked amused as he wagged his eyebrows at Harry.
"Shut it Ron. Harry needs to talk to me about some Quidditch plays for next year. Right Harry?"
"Oh yeah, absolutely. Quidditch plays."
George smirked. "Quidditch plays huh? Is that what they are calling it these days?"
Hermione moved faster than Harry had ever seen her. "Protego!"
Ron crashed into the shield and fell backwards onto the floor. "Let's go." Ginny said quickly and grabbed Harry's arm.
"What did you do that for? They aren't going to talk about Quidditch plays! It's code for something. Something I don't want done to my baby sister!"
"Honestly Ronald, I highly doubt they will do anything more than snog."
"What? That's disgusting! Who does he think he is. Snogging my baby sister..."
The rest of Ron's rant was lost by the distance. Ginny let go of Harry's arm and giggled. Harry looked over at her. "What's so funny?"
"The bickering married couple, that's what. I wish they would just snog already."
Harry's grin crept slowly onto his face. "They did. It was quite disturbing. I'm happy for them and all but..."
"About bloody time. Too bad I missed it. I would have loved the chance to taking the Mickey out of him."
"Because they finally had at it?"
"No. Because I bet Ron's face was priceless when Hermione finally kissed him."
Harry burst out laughing "Thats about right actually. He was completely shocked."
"Ha! I knew it."
Harry looked over at Ginny, thinking back to the first time he had ever kissed her. That memory stirred up many emotions. Happiness, sadness, excitement, and most of all longing. He longed to kiss her again.
"What are you thinking about?" She asked him as she took a seat underneath the giant tree by the lake. Harry looked up at the tree, thinking briefly of Snape, and then took a seat beside Ginny.
"I was thinking about the first time I kissed you. In the common room remember?" A blush crossed Harry's face. It was embarrassing to admit, but Harry was tired of lying to people. Especially Ginny.
"Yeah. Do you remember Ron's face? I thought he was going to blow his top right there."
Harry looked over at Ginny. She didn't appear to be sad, or even hurting. He knew that he had hurt her when he ended things last summer, but it was so necessary then.
"Will you stop thinking so hard? I was just trying to make you feel better about Ron." She put her hand gently on his arm. "He got over it last time right? I'm sure he will this time too."
Harry instantly looked over at her. 'She said this time. Does that mean she wants there to be another time. Wait. What time was she talking about?' his brow furrowed at his frustration. Ginny sighed and put both hands on either side of his face. "You really can be a bit thick sometimes." and with that her lips were crushing down onto his and he was quickly returning the urgency. Her fingers intertwined with his hair and his heart skip a beat. He let one hand run through her hair and placed the other one where her hairline met the nape of her neck. He very softly pressed down as his other hand lightly grabbed hold of her hair. She let out a small gasp at what his hands were doing, and then her lips were even more urgent on his mouth. She straddled him, pushing her body up against his, and ever so often, slowly rolled her hips. Harry thought he was going to die, and his... excitement... was quickly becoming apparent.
"Ginny. You're killing me. And this isn't the time... we're outside... in the open."
Ginny pulled away from his lips. Then giving him a sly smile leaned over to his ear and whispered, "Is my getting off with you too much to handle? Would it be worse if I did this." She then ran the tip of her tongue down the length of his ear and then flicked his ear lobe. Every part of Harry froze, except for the one part he couldn't control. "Or what about this?" she asked as her lips met the skin right where his jawline and neck meet. She then, agonizingly slow, kissed and lightly sucked all the way down to his collarbone. Harry let out a low groan and Ginny looked up in his eyes, hers twinkling with mischief. She quickly sat up, gave him a peck on the lips, and then removed herself from his lap. "Okay fine, I'll behave. So what Quidditch plays would you like to discuss?"
Harry looked at her in disbelief. And the tried to nonchalantly adjust the way he was sitting so that his desire wasn't so obvious. "It's a little late to behave Gin. You've already done the damage." She giggled. I'm sorry Harry, i know it's not nice to leave you... hurting, but when i saw that opportunity I couldn't pass it up. I promise I'll make it up to you another day."
"Bloody hell Ginny, you are really going to kill me."
"Imagine the headlines that story would create."
They both laughed and Harry started to calm down. They fell into a comfortable silence as Harry took Ginny's hand in his.
"So what is next for 'the famous Harry Potter'?" she finally asked.
"Oh very funny Ginny." She winked in response to his sarcasm. "Well... for one thing. I would like to finally be with you. That is... if you want to be with me."
"Harry. Come off it. I was just snogging you. We may have a lot talk about and work through, but i obviously want to be with you too."
Harry grinned widely at this thought. "So we're back together?"
"What is it with you and asking questions that i've already answered?" she gave him a stunning smile. "Yes Harry. We are officially back together. Shall we go hold a press conference?"
"Smart arse. I don't think there needs to be a press release. I'm sure it will be all over the papers anyway." He hoped that wouldn't scare her off. "How do you feel about that?"
She took a moment to seriously think about it. "I'm sure i'll adjust to it. But I can't say that I will enjoy it. Hogwarts will be a nice escape. No reporters there."
He looked down, trying to fight off the guilt. "Umm Ginny... about Hogwarts... I haven't really told anyone yet, but i'm not going back. I'm going to become an Auror. I hope you're not angry?" It came out as more of a question than a statement.
"No, i'm not angry. Even if I had hoped you would come back with me, deep down I knew you wouldn't. You've always wanted to be an Auror and I knew it would eventually happen." Then with a smirk she added, "Just as I always knew you would come crawling back to me."
Harry was shocked for more than one reason. He lifted his head and with wide eyes asked. "Who are you and what have you done with Ginny Weasley's legendary temper?" She giggled. Harry then added, "And I didn't come 'crawling' back." When she raised an eyebrow at him he firmly stated, "I was on my feet thank you."
"Actually... you were on your arse." They both laughed at this and Harry shrugged in agreement. Ginny lightly kissed him. All humor gone. "I'm not going to get mad over something I can't change. I'm not going to get mad that I was here all year while you were out there, risking your life daily, and now you're ready to go risk it again." Ginny had matured and it was nice to know that she supported what he planned to do. "Besides you wouldn't get mad and tell me I couldn't be an Auror if that's what I wanted."
Harry was suddenly terrified. The thought of her being out there, putting her life in danger, scared him senseless. Cautiously he asked, "You don't want to be an Auror... do you?"
Ginny scoffed "No. I'll leave the gallantry to you." She was teasing him. Harry let out a breath he didn't realize he had been holding. "I want to be a professional quidditch player."
Harry groaned. "Ginny that's not much better. Quidditch is really dangerous, you could be seriously injured. Or even killed!"
She looked at him, amusement filled her words. "You've always been one to set double standards."
"What? I do not!"
"Harry. You want me to support you being an Auror, the most dangerous job out there, and yet you have a hard time supporting me because you don't want me to be in danger. That's a double standard. And please, don't worry. I can handle myself."
"I know you can, but it still scares me. What if I'm not there to..."
"What if you're not there to what?" Now Ginny's temper was starting to show. "To protect me? Trust me Harry i managed to do just fine this past year. And in case you haven't noticed, I'm not a little girl anymore."
Harry sighed. What she was saying was true. He had no idea what she had gone through, but it had changed her. "I just want to be able to help. I care about you Ginny. I don't want to see you get hurt."
"Do you think I want to see you hurting?" Now it was Harry's turn to give her a playful look of doubt. She had been very happy to make him hurt earlier. "Er well... other than that kind of hurting."
Harry suddenly had a realization. "Ginevra Weasley, you're a tease. And a sadistic one at that."
Ginny suddenly looked extremely innocent and completely taken aback. "Who me? A tease? Never!" Then her mischievous grin came back and Harry knew he was in trouble. She placed her hand on his chest. "Did I cause you too much pain?" She slowly started moving it down. "Would you like me to make you feel better?" Her hand was at his belly button. "Do you want me to fix it?" Her hand was on his belt. Harry's jaw dropped. She was evil, pure evil.
"I... umm..." was all he could manage before Ron's voice was heard.
"I don't care that you're my best mate, you better not be snogging my sister."
Ginny removed her hand. "Shall we continue talking about Quidditch later?" Ginny asked.
"Yeah... that sounds all right." Ginny giggled and grabbed Harry's hand into her own. Intertwining her fingers with his. "Gin what are you doing? Ron is going to..."
"Ron said snogging. He didn't say anything about holding hands. So where were you this past year?"
"Huh?" The question took Harry off guard, but he quickly followed her lead. "Oh. We were all over the place. But at the beginning we were at Grimmauld Place."
"Oi!" said Ron. "Why are you holding her hand?"
Even though the question was directed at Harry, Ginny was the one who spoke. "Because that's what couples do Ron, they hold hands. I'm sure you and Hermione do the same thing."
Ron blushed. "That's beside the point Ginny. Hermione and I are... well... it's different with us."
"How? How is you and Hermione different from Harry and I?"
"Yes Ron, how are they different?" Hermione seemed slightly out of breath, probably from trying to catch up to Ron. She was also throughly irritated. "I don't see any difference at all."
Ron mumbled something under his breath, but he seemed to realize that he wasn't going to win this fight. And with a final mumble of the word 'wanker' he plopped himself down, across from Harry and Ginny.
After another moment Hermione took a seat next to Ron and reached for his hand. "Seriously Ron, you are going to have to get over this. Harry is your best friend."
Harry was tired of hearing conversations about him and annoyed that Ron had, yet again, interrupted them. He let out a small sigh. Ginny took notice.
"Before we were so rudely interrupted," Harry squeezed Ginny's hand hoping to convey the need to make nice. "Harry was telling me about where you lot have been this past year. You were at Grimmauld Place? How was Kreacher?" Ginny added this last bit with a tone of disgust.
"Ginny, be nice. Kreacher was very agreeable. He just needed some attention."
"Kreacher agreeable? That's something I'll have to see to believe."
"Hermione is right. After we started treating him better he was almost... friendly."
Ginny looked at Harry with skepticism. "But if Kreacher was as agreeable like you say he was, why did you leave Grimmauld Place?"
Another sigh let Harry's lips. This was a long story and he wasn't exactly ready to talk about it yet. Not even to Ginny.
"Well these two had the bloody brilliant idea to break into the Ministry." Ron's sarcasm was loud and clear. "The plan went over flawless. We were only separated, almost kissed by some Dementors, and followed back there by a Death Eater. The Fidelius Charm broke of course and so we went on a nice camping holiday for about 8 months. Oh and I was splinched. Good times, right mate?"
Harry was fed up. He didn't want to fight with him anymore. This past year almost destroyed their friendship. "Ron you really can be a right git. We all know how you felt about the situation but guess what? It's over now. Move on."
"If I never have to camp another day in my life it will be too soon."
"You. Broke. In. To. The. Ministry?" Ginny punched every word.
"Oh come on Gin Bug. It had to be all over the Prophet. They had figured out it was Harry by the time we were trying to escape."
"There were rumors... but thats all anyone thought it was... a rumor." Ginny snapped out of the daze she was in. Anger becoming to main emotion. "It's the Ministry of Magic! Not to mention Harry was what they considered 'Undesirable Number One.' I mean had you lot gone mad? What was so bloody important that you had to break into the bloody Ministry of Magic?"
This really was the last thing Harry wanted to talk about. He started to get restless. Hermione took notice. "Ginny we heard almost zero news while we were out there. We know that you and Neville tried to steal the sword of Gryffindor but please, tell us. What happened at Hogwarts? What was it like?"
Ginny retracted her hand from Harry's, feeling his anxiety. "Oh... well it was umm... different."
While Harry was curious about Hogwarts and why Ginny was so reluctant to talk about it, the beginning of this conversation had put him in a right awful mood. Now he just wanted to be alone. He stood to leave.
"Where are you off to mate? It's only 4:00."
Even though it was Ron who spoke, Harry looked down at Ginny. She was looking off at something in the vastness of The Black Lake. "Madam Pomfrey is expecting me, I really should be off."
"But she said you didn't have to be there until..."
"Yeah well, my right side is kind of bothering me. I also never ate anything so I didn't take my second pain pill." Although he wasn't in pain, this was the best excuse he could come up with.
"Okay mate. Care if I join you back to the castle?"
"Yeah sure." Was all that he supplied.
"'Mione? Ginny? What about you?"
Still looking away Ginny responded. "I think I'm going to stay out here for a bit."
Harry looked at Hermione. She was looking at Ginny. "I think I am too."
Harry turned to leave. The sooner he was in the Hospital Wing, the sooner he could be alone. Ron followed suit and after a little ways Ron spoke.
"So you and Ginny are back together then." It wasn't a question. When Harry didn't respond Ron tried again. "I don't want to see her hurt again Harry. So this is kind of a rough spot to be in. You are my best mate... but she's my sister. So if you are just going to leave her again..."
Harry couldn't ignore his words any longer. "I'm not going to leave her Ron. I want to be with her."
"...But you just..."
"I just what Ron? Ginny and I still have a lot of things to talk about. I'm not going to leave her just because it didn't go well the first time we tried. It's going to take time. But for now, can we just drop it?"
"Sure mate."
And with that Harry and Ron walked the rest of the way in silence.
5 May 1998
2:23am
If Harry was annoyed before, he was now furious. He hadn't counted on Ron going with him all the way to the Hospital Wing. As soon as Madam Pomfrey had seen them, she came rushing over.
"Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Is everything alright?" Harry had started to say something but Ron beat him to it.
"Harry says he has some discomfort. He wanted to come here early." Harry could have sworn Ron was doing this just to get back at him. Ron knows how much Harry hates to be attended to, even if he is in pain. Which right then, he wasn't.
Glaring at Ron, Harry amended, "It's nothing really. I haven't had anything to eat so I couldn't take my second pill."
"Pick a bed Mr. Potter. I will bring you some food right away and then check your injuries for anything more."
And the fifth bed on the left is where Harry had been for the past 10 hours. Internally cursing Ron for his big mouth the whole time.
For the first few hours it had been nice. He had been able to think about things and everything that had happened the past year. Letting the events of the past few days really sink in. He had broken into Gringotts, rode a dragon, learned the truth about Snape, and killed Voldemort all in the past five days. That alone was a lot to take in. But he had done so much more. He had also made nice with Kreacher, broken into the Ministry, camped in the wilderness for eight months, fought with his best mate, learned said best mate's worst fears, seen his parents grave for the first time, been attacked by a snake, nearly killed, actually killed, and seen many people die.
That thought had caused him to think about all the people who died and his memories of their deaths. Mad eye and Hedwig, four days before his 17th birthday. Gregorovitch, in his own home. Grindelwald in his jail cell. Theodore Tonks on the run. Dobby at Shell Cottage. Severus Snape, in the Shrieking Shack. And finally Colin Creevy, Fred, Tonks, and Lupin, only a few days ago here at Hogwarts. The thought of Tonks and Lupin sent a sharp shooting pain through his entire body. He couldn't face it yet. It was just too much. He thought of his Godson and how he is only a month old. He would never get to know his parents, just like Harry. Harry once again hoped he would be around for his Godson more than Sirius was around for him. He wanted Teddy to have at least once other person beside his Grandmother. The loss of everyone is a bit overwhelming, but he had to face it sometime.
He had wondered when funerals were going to be held, and how facing the cold hard fact of death was going to effect the families and friends of the deceased. He knew the Weasley's hadn't fully realized that Fred was gone. He hadn't even accepted it. It just seems so odd to even think it. It's as if everyone keeps expecting him to materialize and claim it was all an elaborate prank. But the truth is, that isn't going to happen. Fred died. Harry witnessed it himself. George must be devastated. To lose someone is hard enough, but when that person is literally your other half, like Fred was for George, it has to tear one apart. And Ginny... she was always so close to them. This must be impossibly hard for her as well.
And thats what did it. The thought of Ginny was what brought him back to the present. It's what made him become furious with Ron. The way that Harry had left things with Ginny was stupid. Yes Harry had wanted some time to himself, but he didn't want to be kept only to himself. So around 6:00 Harry had basically begged Madam Pomfrey to allow certain visitors until 9:00, but by 8:47 she still hadn't come by. Harry had been ready jump out of bed, hunt Ginny down, and force her to fix things between them. But Madame Pomfrey wouldn't let him leave. She hadn't found any new injuries and everything seemed to be healing properly, but she said she wanted to 'keep him under close observation because the fact that he had discomfort meant something wasn't quite right.' While Harry knew that his own lie got him into this mess, he still wanted to direct his anger at Ron. Ron had interrupted their perfectly happy time together and then everything had gone awful. Yes, decided Harry. It's Ron's fault he is stuck here, being forced to do nothing but eat, sleep, and read. And if Luna hadn't brought the newest edition of the Quibbler during visiting hours, Harry wouldn't even have that luxury.
Harry looked at the clock. 2:27. Bloody Hell, time was moving impossibly slow and no matter how hard he tried, he could not fall asleep on his own. Harry reached over and rang the little bell Madam Pomfrey had given him in case he needed anything.
Madam Pomfrey came into the room wearing her night clothes. Sounding very sleepy she asked. "Yes Mr. Potter? Is everything alright?"
"I'm sorry to wake you, but I can't sleep. I've been trying for hours and i just... can't."
"I was afraid this was going to happen. You slept almost 48 hours uninterrupted. Let me go get you a Sleeping Drought. I will be back shortly."
Harry watched the clock. counting every second that passed. A whole 159 seconds later, she was at his bedside, Sleeping Drought in hand.
"As you are aware Mr. Potter, the sleeping drought will make you unresponsive for exactly 8 hours. It is exactly 2:30. Drink up and I will see you again at 10:30am. Good night.
Harry took the potion as she left. He rolled onto his side and got comfortable. Wanting to think about something more pleasant as he drifted off, Harry thought about today. His last coherent thought being what Ginny might have done to 'make him feel better.'
Additional A/N:
A thank you to SonyaAnn, SerenaEarthRose, trtldx123, mrharris31, pooky11602, pettybureaucrat, angbookworm, devilkatkiller, jennyfromtheblock21, Minervana1, and BostonGirl2012 for adding my story to their 'Story Alerts'.
A very big thank you to kiwifan13, jennyfromtheblock21, and Minervana for adding my story to their 'favorite stories'. You all have a lot of faith in my story very early on and I appreciate that very much. It makes me feel good about what I have written. Thank you.
And a special thank you to pettybureaucrat, kiwifan13, and Minervana1 for the reviews on the last chapter. I do appreciate any kind of feedback and/or constructive criticism. (No, I will not be offended. Your opinion is yours and yours alone. I will take what I like and leave the rest.)