This story is based on characters and developed from some situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.

Chapter 6

A Day with Teddy.

Molly woke, just as the sun was beginning to illuminate the floral patterned curtains that covered her bedroom window at the Burrow. Yawning and stretching, she glanced round the room, as was her custom each morning, ignoring the snores from the still sleeping Arthur beside her in the bed. She was still getting used to the thought that this house and the land around it were entirely theirs, lock, stock and barrel. They had always paid the mortgage payments on time, in fact they had been due to pay the next in a few days time, but now, quite suddenly, there were none to pay, their mortgage was a thing of the past, something they no longer needed to be concerned about. After so many years, it would take some getting used to, more of their money was now their own. Although her gaze round the room was her normal routine, this morning it felt different from any she had woken to here before.

It was the morning after they had left Ginny, their only daughter at Grimmauld place with her boyfriend, though she didn't recall that for a moment, but only a moment. She was a naturally early riser, but today was different, she realised that she had, in fact, woken even earlier than was usual for her. Having remembered where here each of her children were, she wondered if waking at this hour was because she knew that not one of her children was at home, despite the unscheduled holiday. Some kind of mother's instinct, sensing the absence of every one of her offspring perhaps, something she had thought she was used to after Ginny had gone to school, but this was different. She had known, of course, that one day everyone of them would have left the nest, but not quite so soon, or so suddenly as it seemed. She regretfully admitted that she was not ready for them all to have gone, not just yet, especially her youngest.

Although deep down she knew that her girl was sensible enough not to do anything that she didn't feel happy about, she was her daughters mother after all. Which meant that Molly knew just how spirited she could be, so was worried that Ginny would, perhaps, be very happy doing more than was strictly good for her. She also recalled how she was, herself, at Ginny's age, which in all honestly did absolutely nothing to reassure her in the slightest. Realising now just why her parents had seemed so straight laced and over protective of her back then. She knew now, because now she was the parent which meant that every instinct she held screamed at her to lock her little girl away and never let her be alone with any boy ever again. She knew in reality that could not and should not do that or anything like it. Whilst she was, quite naturally, concerned for her daughter, she knew that after what the girl had been through and now she was almost of age, she had to let her make her own life. She also remembered how she had felt at Ginny's age and how she had rebelled against the boundaries her parents had set for her then. Lines she had crossed to be with Arthur, her man, just as young girls always would, but like her daughter she knew her own limits, only pushing those when she was ready to do so.

She was not regretting the decision to let her only daughter, her youngest child, her baby, stay at Grimmauld Place, well not really anyway. She knew that both Ginny and Harry could be trusted in the normal course of things, but she also knew what it was like to be a teenager and that the couple would have almost certainly shared a bed for the night at the very least. Given half a chance, when she was that age, Molly knew very well that she would have and she knew Ginny would do the same. The problem was that, that knowledge did not make it any easier for her to be completely relaxed about it. She knew and understood the temptation they had placed on the two teens and as a parent she could not help, but to worry about it, hoping there would be no reason to regret it. She lay in the warmth of her bed, watching the sun illuminate her dressing table through the curtains, Arthur still asleep next to her, his steady rate of snoring an unchanging rhythm as she began to reminisce about her youngest child's life and how much the boy they had grown to love had always been part of it.

Molly had watched as her little fire angel, who had been so enamoured with the stories of Harry Potter as a toddler and the real story as far as it was known as she grew up, had become convinced the boy would be her friend and maybe, even hopefully more once she went to Hogwarts. By the day Ron started at Hogwarts for the first time she had been excited to go and see her brothers off rather than tearful as she normally was, she was a little calmer of her expectations of what would happen if she saw her idol, she had realised that her hero may not respond well to anyone simply rushing to him to give him a hug for example. Even so, she was very keen to see him that day at Kings cross, maybe even more, especially when she discovered that Dumbledore was worried he may not be able to find his way to the platform and had asked her mum to watch out for him. That day, when they had spotted him, he had been just an abandoned lost child, looking for the platform at Kings Cross station, on his way to Hogwarts for the first time, not a heroic figure that Ginny had imagined him to be, but fa from being disappointed Molly had seen her daughter fall even more for him. The girl's reaction had interested her, she knew it had not been the first time the pair had seen each other, simply the first either of them could remember Molly mused. The sight of Harry, so vulnerable, that day had pulled at her heart strings. Her daughter was first excited she had seen him and desperate to go to him, then later mortified that she had not gone to him herself, relieved he was an ordinary boy after all, not the heroic, untouchable person she had feared. Ginny had excitedly watched for Owls each day carrying letters home from any of her brothers, for news of Harry, each snippet of information increasing the girls yearning to wrap Harry in her arms. Though never more so than when a letter from Ron told them his friend expected to receive nothing for Christmas and had never received any gifts from the relatives he lived with.

Receipt of this news had resulted in some fast knitting and baking by both of them, not to mention puzzlement at how his Muggle guardians could allow such a thing, but only after Molly had needed to calm her daughter. Ginny had been furious that poor Harry would not only not get any presents, but had never had any that he could remember, Molly had to admit that her daughter was clearly demonstrating, just why it was not a good idea to provoke either a red head or a descendant of the Prewitt family. She had angrily wanted to curse the boys relatives, then, when the anger had calmed over an hour later, broken down in floods of tears of compassion for him. It had taken quite some time for Molly to calm her sufficiently that they could start to do something about it. All before the girl had, unnecessarily as far as Molly was concerned, pleaded with her to make gifts for him and so they had both begun work. Even though they were not a rich family, they were happy to share what they had and her daughters request was something her instincts had already decided that she would be doing anyway, she was proud that her daughter wanted to as well.

Once Christmas was over, but before the year had changed they had received a polite, kind letter of thanks from Harry, brought by his wonderful Snowy Owl who had occasionally brought letters from Ron. Even though the letter had been addressed to Mr and Mrs Weasley as well as Ginny and they had all three been present on its arrival, the Owl had taken the letter for the ten-year old to receive. After that, Ginny had been keener than ever to see a post Owl approach, every piece of news of him was received with far more excitement than any about her brothers at the school. Molly watched as Ginny's feelings and excitement grew with each day crossed off the calendar to the day the school train would bring them back and she might have a chance to see him again.

As a woman who had also had a crush when she was young, she understood Ginny's embarrassed silence that summer, when Harry stayed at the Burrow for the first time. She knew the emotions her daughter had felt, knew they were too powerful for an eleven-year old to understand fully or know how to cope with. She had then noticed, as only a mother spots these subtle changes in their child, that while she had slowly, over time, got over the awe of what Harry was to the Wizarding world, she had at last seen him for who he actually was.

Ginny had grown more and more comfortable with his company and he with hers as time went on, not that they spent much time together, but when they did they were at ease with each other. Molly had watched how the love her daughter felt for Harry had grown, as well as the patience with which she had waited for him to notice her as something more than just Ron's sister. Both had entered relationships with others, both following their hearts at the time, though Molly believed both were submitting to infatuation rather than anything more and so it had proved when they had at last shown each other their feelings for each other. She had advised and guided her daughter, when, last year, he had hurt her so much by reluctantly ending their burgeoning relationship, Molly had admired her daughters resulting resolve, not to give up on Harry, but to support him, wait for him and be there for him when his task was done. She had seen how at the wedding last summer he could not take his eyes off Ginny and the way she had looked at him, despite his disguise. Molly had known then, that if he survived the battle, her daughter would go to him and was not going to let him go again.

She had seen her daughters torment when it had appeared that Harry was dead, the girls determination to fight by his side in that final battle was for many more reasons than simply the noble ones. Then, later, once the fighting was over and he had, at last, managed to get away from all the attention, he went to what had been his dormitory room in Gryffindor tower to sleep. Ginny had sat herself next to his bed and with one look she had told everyone there was no way she would leave his side as he rested, woe betide anyone who tried to separate them. Molly had known it would be a worse battle than the one they had just completed, should anyone try. In the days since then she had seen that both her daughter and Harry could now feel the connection between them. She knew her daughter had finally got her man, but she also knew the temptation they had given the teenage couple and their hormones yesterday. So although she was confident that the decision she and Arthur had taken to trust them was the correct one, the small worry, about her only daughter remained and would do so until she saw them both again.

Arthur stirred in the bed beside her, experience gained from their long years of marriage told Molly this was the first signs that he would be waking soon. She carefully rose so she would not disturb him and he could wake at his own pace, which was not entirely as selfless as it might seem. As soon as she was out of the bed she padded swiftly across the room to reach the bathroom, she would be able to complete her routine before he could wake properly. Once she had finished her morning routine several minutes later, she returned to the bedroom refreshed and wrapped in a towel, she crossed to the wardrobe, selected some clothes for the day and dressed. She looked in the mirror, waved her wand over her hair, which immediately shifted into its usual neat style. Happy, she nodded to herself in satisfaction, ready to start her day.

Leaving the room, she paused on the landing and looked round, it was so familiar, yet so strange to her at the same time. It was so quiet, not even the sound of Ron snoring, which was one reason his room had been at the top of the house. It was a sound she had often heard from this landing over the years, it had been oddly comforting to hear when he had been home. The house felt empty to her, they were the only ones living here, the only ones in the building, even the ghoul that had once lived in the attic had left it seemed, there had been no sign of it since they had returned at least. Sighing and giving herself a shake to stop herself wallowing in self pity, she went down to the kitchen.

She glanced at the grey, cooling embers of yesterdays fire in the grate, there was just enough still alive in it to make a Floo call. She could just check on Ginny and Harry, they might want breakfast cooking for them after all, she almost reached for the pot of powder on the mantel before stopping herself with a shake. No, she had promised herself she would not call Ginny when they had decided to leave them, she had to show them that the trust they had placed in the young couple was real, that it was more than just words no matter how tempting it was check up on them. A little annoyed with herself, she threw a log onto the fire instead, with luck it would catch and slowly burn away, keeping the fire alive for a while longer in case a call came through. Now Arthur was Kingsley's deputy, early morning calls would not be that uncommon. She added a cooling charm in front of the fireplace, they may need the fire for communication, but it certainly would not be needed to give heat today, already it was warm in the house, a glance out of the window showed it would be a sunny day. Maybe she would look at restoring her vegetable patch in the garden later, there was nothing like growing her own food for the table, but it was all a little neglected.

Arthur came down the stairs and entered the kitchen, just as she started cooking breakfast for them both. He knew his wife well, he knew that although she had her back to him, the expression on her face would be one of worry. He knew, because he to felt a twinge in his heart when he thought of his baby girl, all alone, with another man, no matter how much he knew and trusted him. That was simply his heart though, in his head he knew she was no longer his baby girl, she was grown up and quite rightly wanted a life of her own. His daughter deserved no less, besides he knew that she had chosen well. He crossed the room and wrapped his arms comfortingly around his wife.

"I know Molly, you are worried about her, so am I love." He kissed her as she looked up at him.

"I just remembered how we were at that age Arthur, that's all." She sighed wistfully.

He grinned and chuckled despite himself. "Yes, so have I, but I also think after what the pair of them have been through they are responsible enough not to betray our trust in them. Besides whilst it is not quite the same thing, they have been alone at school for most of the year, except this last one since she started at Hogwarts."

"Yes, but they are on their own, in his house, very likely sharing a bed. At school, with all those others around, they could hardly do much more than kiss in the broom cupboards and walk in the grounds." Molly objected.

"Oh I think they could be far more ingenious than that, Ginny especially. After all dear, we were." Arthur grinned.

"Arthur!" Molly looked at him sharply as she placed two mugs of steaming tea on the table, then her face softened as the memories flooded back. "You know, we were weren't we." She smiled, setting his breakfast in front of him. "But, that doesn't mean they should be."

"Look Mollywobbles, I know in our final year we found ways of being alone together and I am sure they had the opportunity at the end of last year, I am not so sure they have taken the chance and really I am not going to ask anyway. Unlike us they had bigger things to worry about, he was learning what he had to do to win a war that he really should not have had to be part of, and she had her OWLs." Arthur picked up his knife and fork before observing. "Besides they both respect each other enough that they will not ask anything of the other that they are not ready for, they both showed that last year Molly. They have proven themselves more than once, look at how he took the trouble to talk about what he went through fully with her. Their connection is deep, deeper than they have realised, neither will make the other feel uncomfortable, neither wants to risk ruining what they have fought so hard for."

She sighed, sitting down with her own plate, a rack of toast floated onto the table between them. "I know that really Arthur, its why I am not going to be calling them to check what we already know, even though I am sorely tempted. I don't know, I suppose it's just, she's the only girl and our youngest child, I need to get used to the fact she is growing up, only a couple of months until she comes of age."

"True, but she grew up in attitude a while ago, they have all had to with recent events. Mind you, she takes after you, you know. She knows what she wants and then gets it, so I can't help, but to feel a little sorry for Harry. Poor lad, he's just like me, trapped by a good woman, but of course like you did before him, he's fallen for the Weasley charm." Arthur grinned cheekily, then ducked as his wife threw her cloth at him.

"Behave Arthur!" She smiled. " Fine, I'll stop worrying if you will Arthur, I know they are good kids."

"Does that go for Ron too?"

Molly's hand shot to her mouth. "Oh goodness, isn't that awful. There I was thinking of Ginny alone, not Ron at all, well apart from missing his snoring that is, but yes it does, besides Hermione will keep him in check."

"As Ginny will Harry, if she has to. I don't think we need to worry though they are all sensible kids at heart. What time are we due at the Granger's by the way?" Arthur changed the subject.

"At ten, why do you ask?"

"Oh no reason." Said Arthur finishing his breakfast, he drained his mug then stood up, walked out of the kitchen door and crossed the yard to the chicken hut.

The residents of a house on a square in London were also rising to the new day, dressing and leaving their rooms for breakfast in a room overlooking the park opposite. A large man was the last to enter the room, he went over to the side table where someone, he didn't care who, had left a variety of food. Cereals, which he ignored, Fruit, which he passed over, a variety of breads that went unheeded. He finally reached the hot selection where he piled his plate with rashers of bacon, sausages, fried eggs, tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, hash browns, baked beans and fried bread, a rack of toast completing his selection. Looking round he noticed his wife eating a bowl of cereal, he couldn't care less what their guards were eating, but was disappointed to notice his son had selected a variety of fruit, just as he had for most of their time away. The boy had only had what he would call a proper breakfast once a week or when he had gone to help on that farm and eaten there. He shook his head, he would be glad when they were home and he could get his son out of these abnormal habits which he had developed. He had, had a good fry up for breakfast every day since he had been weaned, it had done him no harm, his son had been the same until that damn school had believed he needed to lose weight. To see the boy choosing that monkey food when good proper food was freely available, was simply unnatural, what kind of person would choose to eat that muck, unless they had been brain washed into it. Continuing to shake his head in disbelief, he moved to the table and put his plate down.

"Where did you go last night Dudders?" He asked his son, barely noticing his wife interrupting her meal and pouring him a mug of tea from the pot.

Dudley sighed, looking at the plate his father had put down, he could hardly believe that a similar mountain of food had been typical of his own breakfast choice for most of his life. Yes he had resented the diet he had been put on by the nurse at Smeltings at first, but now he enjoyed the larger variety of food he ate, appreciating it, rather than simply eating for the sake of it. He knew his father disapproved, but that was not the only thing the man would not like that Dudley intended to do in the future, however for now it was better to drip feed the changes and keep the peace. "Just for a walk in the park opposite Dad, met a couple who own one of the large houses in a neighbouring square. It's quite nice to be able to go out on my own again, but I do miss the hills we had in Derbyshire." He stated simply.

His father was the only one in the room who didn't know the truth of Dudley's evening walk and who he had actually met. They had all decided last night that as Vernon was so happy to be heading home, they would not spoil it, there was no point creating problems where there should be none. For Petunia the events of the night before had given her much to think about, on top of everything she had seen in their months in hiding. She had watched for her son returning, stood in front of the window of the room they were now in. Dedalus had told her that Dudley had gone over to the park to see his cousin, the man had been with him when he had seen Harry with a girl, he knew she was a Weasley so had to be Ginny, cross the street into the park. They had both instantly recognised him, although he had changed, the months had not been kind to the way he held himself, though perhaps he was still nursing injuries. Later as her son had returned through the door, she had seen her nephew and the ginger haired girl, who seemed somewhat familiar, leaving the park, but her attention was not on the girl, she was watching her nephew. He seemed, to her, to be even skinnier than before, but she was relieved that he was obviously well and happy.

She had surprised herself being genuinely pleased to see her nephew whole and hearty, although she could not bring herself to go out and speak to him, she was not ready for that, not yet, she had too much to consider about herself. She had turned back into the room to find her son, Dedalus and Hestia there, she walked to the table and sat, looking at the other three expectantly, after a moment they joined her, the four had talked whilst her husband had been safely out of the way, taking a bath. Dedalus and Hestia were still cautious and protective of their charges, the wizard confessed that he had followed Dudley, but had stayed well clear when he had seen that Dudley had met his cousin safely. Then they discussed their plans for keeping in touch, while attempting to guide Vernon into accepting that she and Dudley wanted to be on good terms with Harry.

That had been last night and the conversation had ceased the moment Vernon had emerged from the bathroom, so even this morning he had no idea who Dudley had visited with, or that the meeting had been more than cordial.

"Well only another few days or so and we shall be back to our old life Dud." Vernon told his son cheerfully. "That's something to look forward to, the end of this disruption the freak caused us, We shall never have to see the runt again, think of that, finally we are free of the ungrateful brat, our lives can return to normal and you can start having proper food again son."

Petunia looked at her husband in despair, almost sick at the thought of going back to their old life. She had gained something whilst they had been in Derbyshire, something that she had not had in a very long time, self esteem, real self worth gained from having a life that was outside their home, more than being just a housewife. She had enjoyed running the Post office, getting to know the villagers and being a valued part of the community, liked for being herself, not simply as a source of gossip, it had given her a purpose beyond just looking after her son and house as she had in Little Whinging. Dudley of course no longer needed her, he had grown up, she had surprised herself while she had watched him grow and develop in the village, he was fast becoming a fine, thoughtful young man. He was becoming his own person, rather than a clone of his father, as she had once expected he would be, but he had over come all that, she could see he was already more than Vernon, who had failed completely to see the change in his son. She had been saddened to leave the post office, the village and that life, returning to Privet Drive seemed to her a backward step, one she was not looking forward to. The people in the village had been so welcoming, friendly and genuine, not at all like those back in Little Whinging, who were back stabbing and so false, not one would she describe as a friend. She would not be returning to that life if she had a choice, but she had nowhere else to go, she had to follow Vernon.

Dudley noticed his mothers expression, it showed a response he shared, though he was not sure it would be for the same reasons. His father was clearly oblivious to the fact that his son was determined that he would not be resuming his old life and had already begun building the foundations of his new one. He had even asked Dedalus to introduce him to Mrs. Figg, as a way of keeping in touch with the magical world and as a route to contact Harry if he needed one. The wizard had been only to pleased to agree this, he had grown fond of the once spoilt boy and promised to stay in touch with him as well.

Unknown to the Dursley family, whilst they were eating breakfast that morning, number four Privet Drive was swarming with wizards, all dressed as Muggle workmen supposedly carrying out improvements to the house, which was in fact being checked for curses and made safe ready to be secured for the families return. Vernon's desire to be completely free of the magical world would not be happening, at least not for the time being, the protection of new wards would be keeping them safe for another year at least.

The family had been told they could not move back in straight away, not until Mr. Dursley's return to work had been arranged and the ministry had modified the memories of the staff for the second time, at least. His colleagues would believe he had simply returned from a sabbatical, not that he had mysteriously disappeared for almost a year and they had forgotten he ever existed as they believed at present.

Dudley had left school and was going to work in the offices of a catalogue company's warehouse as a trainee, helping to oversee the distribution of orders and the ordering of products for it, a job the ministry had arranged for him. They had even arranged for him to start driving lessons, which would give him some independence. The new life he aimed for, was slowly building, he had even offered to give his mother some money each week from his wage, which while not high was generous for a trainee, towards his keep, though he had done so out of his fathers hearing. Dudley had truly changed and he hoped his cousin had seen that during their few minutes together, he thought it was likely he had. Regretfully, despite his outburst standing up to the man the other day, he knew his father wouldn't, he just hoped that one day he might, the next weeks and months would tell him if he would.

Harry was woken that morning by a gentle blowing in his ear, he smiled and opened his eyes as he turned his head and looked fondly at Ginny who was laid facing him in the bed, a grin on her face.

"Morning handsome." She smiled, her hand beginning to stroke his chest.

"Morning beautiful." He grinned. "I could get used to waking up like that every day." He added then kissed her.

She rolled on top of him as they kissed; he wrapped his arms round her and she began stroking his hair.

"I wish we could stay like this all day." She whispered cheekily.

"So do I, but I think Mrs. Tonks might object if we stay here while she visits, especially in our current state of undress, not that I'm complaining you understand." He chuckled.

They carried on kissing and cuddling until a few minutes later when, with a pop, Kreacher appeared carrying a tray with their breakfast on it.

"I am sorry to disturb you master, mistress, but it is already nine 'o' clock and Mrs. Tonks will be here in an hour with master's Godson." The elf informed them, placing the tray on the dressing table then leaving them to it.

Ginny and Harry giggled, she rolled off him and he fetched the tray as she lay in bed watching him move, almost naked, across the room, grinning appreciatively and mischievously. They sat up in bed eating breakfast from the tray, then got up, preparing for the day. As they were going downstairs Ron and Hermione came out of the room Ron and Harry used to share when the house was the headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix.

"Morning you two, did you sleep well?" Harry asked.

The pair looked at each other, blushed and giggled.

"Ok, I shouldn't have asked." Harry grinned.

The two couples went into the sitting room, which was the room they had decided they would decorate first. The post arrived just as they sat down most of it was for Ginny, every item she received was either a furniture catalogue or home decorating literature.

"When did you order those? " Harry chuckled, he was glad she had got them, though surprised she had as well.

"I sent for them last night, while you were in the kitchen." She said a little guiltily, then saw his face and perked up. "I told you I've given up trying not to accept it's my house as well as yours. I thought we could look through these with Mrs. Tonks and get rid of the old stuff, make the place more our own. I've never had to furnish a house before, I'd like her help, you don't mind do you, Harry?"

"Not in the slightest Gin, I'm glad you have, it's a great idea." He hugged her.

"Blimey, put each other down for a bit will you, it's getting annoying seeing you two at it all the time." Ron did not look happy this time. "I am getting sick of seeing you constantly pawing each other."

"Ron stop it!" Scolded Hermione sharply, "You have got to accept that Ginny and Harry are a couple and be happy for them. The rest of your family have and so can you, or do you want me to stop doing the same with you?"

"Ok, ok" Ron surrendered instantly. "I'm sorry, I'm just having difficulty seeing my best mate and little sister like that. I am glad for you both, but it just seems a bit odd really."

"I forgive you this time Ronald, but only because you have always been a little slow to catch up with the rest of us." Said Ginny coldly. "However, I give you fair warning, do not make me choose between what I want for me and you, because you will not like the answer you get. What Harry and I get up to, or don't get up to together is our business, no one else's. Remember, I had to tell you that when Harry and I were together before and I won't say it again. Our parents and other brothers accept that I have as much right to a life of my own as you have, the right to choose what I do just as you do. I have chosen that my life is going to be with Harry, at least as far as we can tell at the moment, though I expect that to be the rest of our lives, so it's way past the time you realised that and accepted it without reservation, just as the rest of the family have."

Harry nodded his agreement. "Ron, just remember, you are my best mate, but I love Hermione like a sister, yet I haven't a problem with you two, have I? Hers and your happiness is too important to me for that, as long as you are both happy that is all that matters to me. You know I am not going to do anything to deliberately hurt Ginny, you also know that I spent every night while we were on our mission, in that tent, watching for her on the marauders map. We are together because we want to be Ron, not to hurt or embarrass you and we are not going to split up because you or anyone else can't accept us." Said Harry

A very subdued Ron hung his head."Your quite right all of you; I had forgotten that you had said that to me Ginny and that you think of Hermione that way Harry, it works always round doesn't it. We mustn't lose sight of our friendship and I need to remember that my sister isn't little any more, that she will always be my sister no matter who she is with, I'm sorry, both of you."

Ron's outburst dealt with they began looking at the home decoration pamphlets and magazine's which gave Harry and Ginny some ideas for the house. At quarter to ten Ron and Hermione went to Diagon alley to do some shopping, they agreed to get some paint charts and wall paper samples for Harry and Ginny, as well as to collect their new key's for their Gringotts vaults. In the absence of any available Weasley's, Aylwin and another member of ministry security had been arranged to meet them at the Cauldron to escort them in Diagon Alley to avoid a repetition of the day before's incident, so they could not be late. It also gave Harry and Ginny the morning alone with Teddy and Mrs. Tonks, Harry wanted to take Mrs. Tonks out for lunch so they would all meet up at the Cauldron, Harry would send his owl if there was a change of plan.

Ginny was feeding Harry's new owl some treats. "He's a handsome owl Harry and did really well when I sent him with the notes for the catalogues. He is really keen, you should have seen how proud he was when I was telling him how many he had to deliver and when he got back having done it." Ginny said.

"He's a character all right, just like Hedwig was." Harry agreed.

The owl was watching them expectantly.

"Harry we haven't given him a name yet."

"No I was thinking about that." He walked up to the bird and stroked its head "How about Wulfric or Ignotus." He suggested the names of two of the original owners of the Hallows.

The owl huffed and gave a look of disgust to him, thus rejecting the names.

"No he doesn't like them Harry, how about Tiberius." Suggested Ginny.

The owl hooted his approval and flapped his wings.

"Tiberius it is then." Harry laughed. "You have a real knack for naming owls Ginny"

She grinned, Ginny had also named Ron's little Owl, which was whizzing round above their heads in its usual excitement. "Pig calm down will you." She called to the owl.

Pigwidgeon landed on top of the dresser and looked at them as if to say. "I was only flying, no harm in that you know."

The door bell rang, Ginny leapt in joy, a broad grin spread across her face. "Teddy's here!" She yelled happily and ran to the lobby.

Harry followed her at a more sedate pace, though no less keen to see his godson."Competition from my own godson and I lose every time." He teased.

"Well of course my dear, after all he's far cuter than you, so what else do you expect." Ginny laughed back at him.

Kreacher opened the door and Mrs. Tonks came in with a dark blue crib floating at her side. Kreacher took her coat as Harry and Ginny welcomed her warmly.

They went into the sitting room; Teddy was asleep so Ginny left him in his crib which she set on the coffee table. Harry handed Mrs. Tonks the Gringotts key, for Teddy's vault.

"Thank you, Harry, but it was naughty of you to do that, you know." Mrs. Tonks scolded, although she was smiling. "Nymphadora and Remus have left him with enough, but it is very generous of you, I appreciate it and I know he will when he is older."

"What else are God fathers for?" Harry chuckled.

Teddy woke up a moment later, Ginny picked him up and he gurgled happily. "Oh he's so cute, he looks so like Tonks."

Mrs. Tonks smiled. "Yes he does doesn't he; he's taken to you by the looks of it Ginny, I am pleased. Now you two, from what Molly tells me that it would appear that Harry has found a god mother for little Teddy here. I must admit, I was worried at first, but seeing you together at the funeral removed all my concerns, I can see the two of you are made for each other. The naming ceremony is at the end of July, actually coincidentally I understand its on your birthday Harry, I hope you don't mind, it was the earliest I could get it I'm afraid and it was only later I realised it was that day. I would be honoured Ginny, if you would agree to be at Harry's side and be Teddy's official god mother and I know Remus and Nymphadora would have been too."

Ginny's eyes glistened. "I would love to, Mrs. Tonks, thank you."

"Good that's settled then and please, both of you stop calling me Mrs. Tonks, it makes me feel so old, not to mention that I keep expecting my late mother in law to appear whenever I hear it. You really wouldn't want that to happen, believe you me, she never forgave me for taking her son off her. My name is Andromeda, I should be pleased if you would use it, I may be Teddy's Grandma, but that shouldn't stop us from being friends, I hope." She laughed.

They chatted nearly all the rest of the morning, Kreacher ensuring the tea pot was never emptied for them, he had also left a delicious Victoria sponge cake with thick clotted cream for them. Andromeda was delighted to be asked about decorating and furnishing the house, she entered into it with the enthusiasm of a young girl. Her excitement was contagious, soon she and Ginny were dashing round the house, speeding from room to room, furniture catalogues in hand, picking pieces for each in turn and having a wonderful time. All the while Harry was left to look after Teddy, a task he was glad Kreacher helped him with, he had no experience of looking after babies while it was second nature to the Elf, even so he found looking after the youngster was very enjoyable.

The two ladies arrived back in the sitting room, having placed orders for everything needed to get each room fully furnished in a brighter, more comfortable style than it was presently, it would all be delivered later that afternoon. They had even arranged that the old furniture that wasn't needed would go to St Mungo's for the visitor's quarters and to wizards who could use it, although some of the sofa's, comfy chairs and other pieces that would be useful, were going to go to Hogwarts for use in the Gryffindor Common room.

Having spent the morning organising the house with Ginny, Andromeda was happy to go out with them both, she transfigured a set of wheels for the crib so it would look like a Muggle pram in the streets before they left. They went to meet Ron and Hermione for lunch at the Leaky Cauldron, but Harry's plan to treat Andromeda failed as she insisted she was going to pay and would brook no argument from them. The walk to the Leaky Cauldron was pleasant, though slow, pushing the pram did not prevent Andromeda and Ginny from stopping at any shop window that caught their interest. Harry went to take a turn pushing, but was stopped by the two women, who insisted they would set the pace and didn't want him speeding off because he didn't want to look at the shop windows.

Once again with all the attention Harry and Ginny were attracting when they arrived at the Cauldron, even with a baby present, Tom gladly gave them a private room so they could eat in peace. Ron and Hermione arrived with a pile of wall paper samples and paint charts for them to look at, they all had fun looking at some of the really awful designs available alongside the good ones, before choosing what they actually wanted. Ginny and Andromeda had a good idea what they needed for each room, including carpets.

Teddy was enjoying the attention he was getting from everyone, especially Ginny and Hermione who had learned how to feed him from his bottle. The two girls conned Ron into winding him, they all laughed at his expression when Teddy burped loudly in his ear.

Andromeda was enthusiastic about helping them shop for the paint and wallpaper, in a nearby muggle shop where most of the samples had come from, then returned to the house with them to help make a start as well. Ron was gob smacked as she enthusiastically organised them, then sent the pasted wall paper flying up the walls with a mere flick of her wand, while paint brushes danced round at the merest wave, efficiently painting the ceilings and woodwork as needed. Rooms were being perfectly completed in next to no time, with not a drip of paint or paste spilt. She showed them how to work the spells properly so by tea time the whole of the ground floor and Kitchen was completed, giving it all a brighter, fresh look and just in time for the new furniture to arrive.

Each piece arrived one at a time on the door step together with an elf or two as necessary to carry it, at high speed, into the house. They placed the item in the hallway then popped away with one of the old pieces which had been placed near the bottom of the stairs ready for them by some of their fellows. The furniture was moved efficiently around the house and placed in the appropriate rooms by a second team of elves, who also ensured the old was placed ready to be taken away. It took nearly an hour for all the new furniture to be carried in and the old removed, a hectic hour with Ginny and Andromeda standing on the stairs giving instructions to the elves as piece after piece came in. Harry, Ron, Hermione and Kreacher could only stand and watch as the two witches directed the work. Ginny, with Andromeda's help, had chosen some beautiful antique style pieces which fitted perfectly with scale of the rooms and the style of the house, which was now rapidly becoming a warm, welcoming home for the couple.

Once the furniture was in and the Elves had left Andromeda and Ginny came down the stairs laughing together. "Well done Ginny." The older woman grinned. "I can see having brothers has enabled you to quickly get Harry trained to recognise that the best thing is, to just let us girls get on with it."

It was nearly dinner time, so they all got washed, then settled in the kitchen, which was now brightly decorated and looked very clean, for a meal. Even Kreacher's cupboard had been given a fresh coat of paint, he was very pleased with it, he had been reluctant to let them do it before the other rooms were complete, but had not argued when Ginny insisted. Teddy had slept most of the afternoon while they worked, but he had woken while they were eating, both Ginny and Hermione took turns giving him his bottle while they had their meal in between. This time it was Harry's turn to wind him, he was rewarded with Teddy being a little sick down his shoulder.

"That's supposed to be good luck." Grinned Andromeda as the others laughed at Harry.

Ginny cleaned Harry down whilst Kreacher brought him a change of T shirt and Teddy fell happily to sleep in his god fathers arms. Harry gently laid the baby back in his crib, careful not to disturb him, he looked so peaceful, then changed his shirt. Harry had fallen for his late friends son and fellow Marauders heir as much as the girls had, he was glad he would be able to help Andromeda bring the youngster up. All to soon it was time for Teddy and his grandmother to leave for home.

"Thanks for your help Andromeda, it's been a really good day." Harry grinned to her. "There is no doubt we wouldn't have got anywhere near as much done without you."

"Oh that's fine Harry, to be honest I've enjoyed myself more today than I have in a long time, it's been fun, made me feel like I was your age again."

"I'm glad!" Ginny replied. "Don't be a stranger, you are more than welcome here any time, it's been great meeting you properly."

"Yes!" Added Harry. "You will always be welcome Andromeda and Teddy of course."

"Oh I imagine he will love coming to see his Uncle Harry and Aunty Ginny as he grows up and I want you two to know, I am here for you both whenever you need me. You know where I am and you will always be welcome at the cottage, but more than that if you ever need help with anything, or just a friendly ear, I am here for you no matter what." Andromeda stood up. "Anyway we must get home and leave you young couples to enjoy yourselves, it is nearly time for me to give Teddy his bath, thank you for a lovely day, all of you."

She hugged both Harry and Ginny warmly. "We shall see you both again soon." She said, then picked up the crib with Teddy and waving, she Flooed home. They had, had a fun day and they all had enjoyed seeing them both.

That evening Harry and Ginny were laid on one of the new plump sofas, in the freshly decorated sitting room, cuddling. Ron and Hermione had gone out, to the Leaky Cauldron for the evening, they had asked if Harry and Ginny would like to join them, but they had preferred to stay in this evening, enjoying the fruits of the days labour, so they had the house to themselves. Kreacher had brought them a light supper around nine o'clock and kept the fire going in the room for them, which had a new comfortable, luxurious feel to it, thanks to the carpet and furnishings Ginny had chosen and the newly decorated walls. Even the decorative plaster mouldings, which formed framed panels on the walls had been spruced up with a fresh golden colour surrounding the light paintwork, each had an ornate light fitting at it's centre. The decorative cornice separating wall and ceiling was refreshed, with new paint, while on the ceiling the plaster work in the corners formed by the central oval were filled with original plasterwork which could now be appreciated, thanks to the contrasting paint behind them.

An ornate, but not overwhelming, original crystal chandelier hung, glistening in the fire light, from the centre of the ceiling rose which itself was the only decorative piece in the oval of smooth plaster that covered most of the area. The large gold framed mirror which had been retained though restored, over the fireplace looked like new, set against the classic broad striped wall paper of that wall which contrasted well with the other three plain walls which were broken only by the panels picked out by the moulded plaster borders. The three tall windows along the outer wall opposite the fire had new tied back pelmet curtains and the window seats were freshly upholstered to match. Now the room was furnished with three sofas, arranged centrally around a large circular carpet in front of the fireplace, with an ornate coffee table in the centre of them. A small table with a vase on it with a chair on either side were positioned at one end of the room with a bureau and chair in the corner near the window, a side board at the other end. The couple were happy and content as they lay on the luxurious sofa directly opposite the fire, the dancing flames reflecting around the otherwise unlit, by choice, room, Ginny in Harry's arms. They were both tired, but content, it had been a very enjoyable if busy day.

"Might get the upstairs levels decorated tomorrow, thanks to Andromeda's spells." Said Harry thoughtfully.

"Hmm!" Agreed Ginny. "Perhaps, it would be good to get it all done before we go back to Hogwarts, anyway the new bathroom suites are due to arrive tomorrow as well."

"New bathroom suites? Well I guess they did need replacing really, another thing off the to do list. It's a shame the place is going to be empty while we are away at school though, it's beginning to feel like home, thanks to you."

"No, its thanks to Andromeda mostly, but yes it feels like we belong here now that we have made a mark on it doesn't it. We are so lucky Harry, I never thought I would be able to say it, but we have everything we could need."

"I know my Love, I could stay laid here with you for ever."

"Me too."

They fell silent, simply enjoying each others company, truly relaxing for the first time in their own home. The glow of the fire light was dancing round the room creating hypnotic patterns on the walls, it was the only light in the room, neither had wanted Kreacher to light the lamps when he had asked. So he had simply drawn the curtains against the cold spring night outside and kept them supplied with refreshments to help themselves to. The weather outside was cold, the frost risk even in London had not quite passed yet, although this evening was not cold enough for that so far and it was unlikely that the temperature would get that low, Winter was reluctant to give way to Spring just yet this year it seemed.

With the view of the outside world closed off by the curtains, the room had become very snug, laid as they were, in the small area of the room separated off by the three sofa's, it was incredibly cosy and intimate. Ginny's soft breathing soon told Harry she had fallen asleep, he smiled, content, with Ginny in his arms. This was the time he had longed for, the time with no prophesy to worry about, the beginning of their time to live. It wasn't too long, before he too fell asleep.

He wasn't sure how much later he was vaguely aware of the room door opening.

"Hush Ron, don't wake them."

Harry heard Hermione's voice, which became insistent. "Ron come on, it can wait, we can always tell them in the morning at breakfast."

"Its all right, I'm awake." Harry yawned, looking round, Kreacher had lit a couple of the lamps while they had slept.

"So am I." Ginny stretched then sat up. "What's up?"

"Great news!" Shouted Ron excitedly, he enthusiastically pointing to Ginny, "You are going to be an Aunt."

"What?" Harry sat up, suddenly wide awake in shock, he looked at Hermione.

"No, not me." Hermione said hurriedly and rolled her eyes at the idea. "If Uncle Ronald would calm down for long enough, he could tell you the news properly."

Harry relaxed back into a semi awake state.

"What? Oh yes well, we." Ron pointed to himself and Hermione before continuing. "Saw George and Bill at the Cauldron. Bill had been to the shop on his way home after visiting the Burrow to tell them the news, great isn't it."

Ron looked at them all meaningfully, as if he expected everything to be clear after that explanation.

Ginny looked at him, still bleary eyed. "Ron, we are tired, having been just woken up by some unsubtle sibling or other bouncing round talking in a loud voice. I suspect there is a strong possibility that I am also speaking for Harry when I say that, although we might have a slim chance to be able to discern the full story from the clues you have just given us, thus far, if we were wide awake. Although I have my doubts, however we, as I mentioned a moment ago, are not wide awake enough to translate this strange language know as Ronese. So unless you expect us to congratulate you for recognising two of our brothers, which at times is an achievement for you Ron, then I for one would appreciate it if, you could, possibly, from the kindness of your heart, bloody well get on with it."

"What thoughtless sibling woke you Gin?" Ron asked puzzled. " I didn't know any were here, who's visiting?"

Ginny groaned. "You, you great lumbering ginger pile of dense matter. Now what have me being an Aunt, George and Bill visiting the Burrow and the Cauldron got in common?"

"Oh yes that, well actually it was only Bill who went to see Mum and Dad, he hadn't told George by then." Ron explained.

This time the pause was longer before Ginny cracked. "Told him what Ronald?" She snapped.

"The same thing he told Mum and Dad." Said Ron as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

Groaning again, Ginny looked to the floor, suppressing a scream of frustration. "Merlin save me from obtuse brothers." She shook her head and looked up at him, smiling sweetly and spoke in a voice initially liberally sprinkled with honey, before it firmed and her expression hardened. "Right Ron, brother dearest, you seem to have some momentous news to impart. Perhaps you might do us the favour of enlightening Harry and I as to the precise nature of this information, before I reacquaint you forcibly with my newly created pet bats exiting your nose at a rapid pace."

Recognising that Ginny was indeed close to the end of her tether Hermione interceded. "Ron will you just tell them Bills news, or I will." She instructed.

"What? Oh yes well to cut a long story short." Ron said then took a breath.

"Too late." Muttered Harry under his breath so only Ginny heard him.

"Stop it Harry, don't confuse him any more than he already is." She hissed, hitting his leg.

Oblivious to this Ron continued. "Bill told us that Fleur is one month Pregnant according to the local healer, meaning the baby is due in late January next year." He finished proudly.

Ginny was suddenly wide awake, her frustration with Ron forgotten. "Fleur's pregnant, brilliant, Harry we have got to go see her."

" All right, but not right now, it's late, at least I guess it is." He looked at the clock above the fire and saw it was almost mid night. "Let's send Tiberius first make sure it's convenient to visit with them tomorrow sometime, that way we can congratulate them as well." He smiled at her excitement.

They sent a letter to Bill and Fleur, then drank to their health, before Hermione dragged Ron to bed.

They had liked the room they had shared the night before, so had decided they would not move rooms as they might have so had headed off to sleep in it again. Ginny lay back on the sofa once more, with her head on Harry's lap.

"We ought to think about going to bed soon love, have you decided which room you want to try tonight?" Harry asked her.

" I have Harry." She said cautiously. "Please don't be angry my love, I know we said we would choose together, but Andromeda and I have prepared a bit of a surprise for you."

"How could I be angry with you for that Gin." He said, not knowing what to expect, but trusting her judgement implicitly.

"Good, come on then, let's go to bed." She held out her hand to lead him.

Harry was really puzzled as he took her hand and she led him out of the room, when had she and Andromeda had time to prepare a surprise? They had hardly left his sight after they returned home after Lunch, perhaps that was it, they had done something before they had gone out. Prepared whatever it was while they had been planning the décor, while he had looked after Teddy leaving them to it, he could think of no other time when they could have done anything. Unless of course they had done some shopping without telling him, maybe they had bought something to surprise him with, that was possible he thought as he allowed himself to be guided from the room. Neither of them noticed Kreacher appear behind them, clearing up what had been left, smiling to them before extinguishing the lights.

Ginny led Harry by the hand up the first flight of stairs and stopped next to the wall which Mrs. Black's portrait had been on. She opened the door to one side of the wall, to a room Harry had not yet been in, mainly because until yesterday it had been next to the wall where Mrs. Black's portrait had hung. George, Charlie and Mrs. Weasley had cleared this room after the portraits removal, so he had, had no reason to go in there yet. Which made him realise how little of the house he had explored yet. Harry thought this was probably what had been the master bedroom of the house, now he came to think of it.

"This is our room my love." Ginny led him in." I fell in love with it as soon as Andromeda and I saw it this morning, when we were looking at furniture, even though it needed redecorating, I could see it was a stunning suite. It's all new now and we decorated it this afternoon."

"How? I was with you the whole time, except for the few minutes I was finding that paint for the drawing room you wanted." He asked amazed at how wonderful the room looked.

"I'm sorry Harry, I Confunded you so you wouldn't find it, then we came up and did this. When we had finished I removed the charm, just as we went back in there, you just thought it was a few minutes, it was nearer thirty. Can you forgive me?" Ginny looked worried.

"Of course I can, just don't make a habit of it love." He laughed reassuringly and cuddled her, then looked round. "The room is fantastic."

The room was large, another chandelier, probably original to the house, made of hundreds of crystals hung from the high ceiling. The walls were white with pale pink panels which were surrounded with moulded plaster frames. There were three tall windows divided into smaller panes along one wall, overlooking the street and green below. A walk in wardrobe with dressing room was through one door at the far end of the room while another led to a private bathroom, a door connected the two. The antique style furniture included a large four poster bed with white curtains, bedside tables on either side and a large oak linen chest at its foot, was dominating the other end of the room. In front of the fire was a sofa set on a circular carpet, the rest of the floor was highly polished oak boards. There was a large desk beneath one window and a dressing table under another whilst the centre one had a table with a vase on it; these were all white with gold detailing as were the bedside tables and chairs on either side of the bed. Another large mirror like the one in the living room in a gold ornate frame was above the fire place, it had a Gryffindor Banner on either side of it. It was a truly breath taking and very luxurious room.

Ginny closed the door behind her and pushed him gently towards the bed, she removed her T shirt and they embraced.

"Ginny." He said gently.

"What my love?" She breathed.

"I love you."

"I love you too."

"But, I really need to ask you something my love?"

"What is it my dear?" She asked him kissing his neck.

"How on earth do you undo this thing?"

He was trying to undo her Bra, she laughed, leant against him reached round with one hand and undid the catch "Like this!" She said.

Task done she stepped back allowing the tricky under garment to fall away. They kissed and undressed each other until again they were stood in their pants only. Harry was admiring her beauty again while she led him onto the bed.

"You know I'm not ready to do everything Harry?" She said.

"I know." He said. "I don't think I am yet either, it's too soon, there's no rush to do everything though. We have the rest of our lives, plenty of time to worry about that Gin."

They lay cuddling on the bed, kissing knowing they understood each other; their hands again sought each others bottoms as they kissed, after a few minutes Ginny rolled onto her back, his hand stroked her stomach again.

"Come here." She whispered and moved his hand to her breast.

Harry kissed her neck, as he cupped her gently.

"That feels lovely Harry." She murmured dreamily.

They kissed and her hand slid down his chest, her finger began to trace the outline of his pants. He groaned with pleasure at her touch as her finger ran its course along his inner thighs he rolled onto his back. Her finger continued to gently follow the line of the material, sending shivers of pleasure through his body. She slid her hand to his shoulder as they kissed, his hand slipped from her breast. She cuddled up to him and soon they were both asleep once more.