Summary: On Ginny Weasley's 15th birthday she is given news that drives her to the edge, causing with her running away. Follow her through a life changing adventure where she meets Henry Peters. A mysterious boy who introduces her to a different magical world.

In this universe Harry Potter defeated Voldemort and got the scar on his forehead. Voldemort is gone forever. she does not know him either.

Disclaimer: I only own the plot. JK ROwling owns the characters

Author's Note: I am sorry for taking forever to update. I don't have as much time as i used to. Anyway thanks for all the reviews! I love getting them. Hope you like the chapter. It's a bit girly, but come on who hasn't felt like this at times. Enjoy :)

Chapter 10: Beaches and explanations

It was a little after midnight and I found myself waiting patiently for any signs of Sophie. As creepy as it sounded, I knew that I needed to talk to her. I could not put it off any longer. I lay on my bed trying to be as quiet as possible until finally I heard the sound of the lift. Am I really going to do this? This is not a good idea. I mean only my 2 best friends know and share my burden. Could I really do that to someone else? Part of me already knew the answer. It wasn't my choice, it was honestly hers. She deserved to know.

I crept slowly out the room hoping not to awake anyone. I honestly have no idea why I am trying to be so quiet. It's not like my mum is going to catch me. I guess old habits die hard. I knocked on Sophie's door after a few minutes of fighting with myself.

"Be there in a sec" she yelled through the door. Her voice quivered a bit. Was she okay? She opened the door and expressed genuine shock that it was me at the door. Instantly she plastered a smile onto her face.

"Hey Ginny. What are you doing up at this time? Are you okay?" she asked with obvious concern.

"I should ask you the same thing." I replied, stepping into the room without waiting to be invited in. I really hope she didn't invite non-date in because I really needed to talk to her.

"Find what you're looking for?" Sophie asked clearly amused.

"Yep we are alone" I replied with a small smile.

"And if I wasn't?" She asked with a hint of a challenge. Instead of a reply I shrugged. It wouldn't have mattered. I walked into her small living area and sat onto the couch careful not to sit on a beautiful frame that currently occupied part of it. It was a picture of an elderly woman with a smiling Sophie next to her.

"So what's this about?" She asked taking the frame and placing it gently on the end table next to the couch.

"Who was that?" I asked ignoring her question. Sophie took a seat on the chair across from me.

"Granny Em" She answered with a small smile.

"Are you okay?" I asked. Sophie's eyes looked a bit red.

"I'm fine. She was just like a mom to me."

"You must miss her terribly"

"Like you can't even imagine"

"I think I can" I answered looking at the floor. I could feel her gaze but couldn't meet it. "What was she like?" I asked. Sophie sighed and grabbed the picture frame as if drawing back old memories from it.

"She was the sweetest person. She accepted me in with no hesitation when I needed her. She was always there for me and treated me like a granddaughter. She was very special. Don't get me wrong she had the worst temper when she needed to. I remember when Sirius and I got into this huge fight and I had managed to charm some pots to chase him and hit him in the head. She was furious of course. In the end she agreed it was his fault and I of course was given extra duties around the hotel for a week. She was like the perfect grandma." Sophie said with a dazed look in her eyes.

"she sounds great"

"Yeah she was. But that's not why you came here to talk is it? Ginny do I need to ask what's going on?" I stared at the floor a bit longer.

"I don't even know where to start." I answered

"The beginning would be the best" I rolled my eyes.

"I hope you have some popcorn and snacks because this is going to be a long night. It started during my 15th birthday celebration" I told her about how my parents broke the news and how I felt so betrayed. I told her about how I went to Hermione and Luna and how they helped me get everything ready. I told her everything that I could remember. By the end of it her eyes were glistening.

"Now that was one hell of a story" Sophie said staring at me. Before I could do anything she was by my side hugging me, "Oh Ginny how could you keep this in for so long? I can only imagine the different feelings you must be going through." I must admit a huge burden was finally lifted as soon as I talked to her. "Do you know what type of betrothal arrangement you have? If you do then i'm sure I can do some research and figure out how to get you out of it. Also we need to get your wand situated. At least you have papers, so it won't be that difficult. There's so much to do"

"Sophie relax!" i laughed. She sounded like Hermione "It's been a bit difficult. Thank you though- for everything. I honestly have no idea what I would have done without you here" I could feel tears threatening to come out. I don't know what I was expecting from Sophie, but it was definitely not this.

"No problem. Don't worry we will figure everything out. If I had known I probably would have been easier on you when we first met. Then again it was fun just bothering Sirius." She laughed.

"Thanks! Now I must ask. What is going on with you and Sirius? You both seem to have quite a history" The look she gave me was priceless. She looked a mixture of embarrassed, angry, and a bit of something else.

"We don't have a history. I mean we met when I was 19. I had been here for 3 years already when this young man with a little baby walked in. He looked worn out. Of course Granny Em immediately fell in love with little Henry and took Sirius in until he was able to sort out everything and find a place. He was about 21 at the time and the most immature man I have ever met!" exclaimed Sophie. She sounded exactly like Hermione. I guess the look i had given her was not one she liked. "It's late" said Sophie, "Let's get you to bed." I wanted to protest but I have to admit I was exhausted. She walked me to my room, which thankfully was on the same floor.

"You know what. Why don't we have a girls day tomorrow." Sophie said breaking the silence.

"What did you have in mind?"

"Have you been to the beach yet?" She asked excited.

The next day I found myself being shaken awake.

"Mum just 5 more minutes!" I grumbled rolling to my other side.

"I'd rather like to be thought of more like an older sister or cool aunt" said Sophie.

"Ugh it's too early"

"Sorry Ginny, but we have a long day." Said an amused Sophie. "Come on. We have a long day of tanning ahead!"

"Tanning?" I grumbled. I have the lightest skin tone. i don't tan.

"Yep. I'm pretty sure you've heard of it. Come on get up! It takes forever to get to Brighton Beach. Who knows maybe if you're good I'll take you on some rides in Coney Island. Let's go!" I groaned. I guess I should get up.

"By the way do you have a bathing suit?" She asked.

"A what?" I grumbled

"I figured as much. I left one in your bathroom. You can thank me later" laughed Sophie. I have a bad feeling about this. Curiousity got the better of me and soon I was kicking the sheets up and walking to the bathroom. what i saw made my jaw drop.

"She's got to be kidding"

Within an hour we were both ready and heading to the train.

"So how exactly do we get there?"

"Normally I would apparate, but since its your first time I figured you should not be excluded from the long ride home"

"How sweet of you" I replied sarcastically

"I try" she laughed pulling me forward. I must admit that I was excited. I have never been to a beach before.

About an hour later we found ourselves in Brooklyn walking towards the beach. We both brought our bags that were filled with all our important supplies. I must admit being a witch does help in these situations. I can't imagine having to jam all of my supplies into a small rucksack.

"Okay it should be around this corner." Sophie said turning towards the street called Brighton 4. The buildings here all looked different. I wouldn't say they were exactly nicer, but they had an appeal. Even the air smelled different. It had more of a salty hint to it. We weren't the only ones on our way there either. There were groups of people, mostly young, carrying towels and these plastic boxes similar to the one Sophie is carrying.

"Ah here we are" Said Sophie. She was sniffing the air and looked the most content I've ever seen her.

"Wow" was all I could say. The beach was beautiful. The sun was hitting the ocean perfectly that it glistened. The sand was clean and the perfect shade of brown. It looked just peaceful. There were some people already sitting on their towels relaxing mostly in groups.

"Well let's go to the bathroom first and then we will get a spot" Sophie said pointing to the large house connected to the boardwalk and beach. Inside was very damp and dimly lit.

"I'll be in the stall right next to you."

"Er- okay" After I used the bathroom I heard a knock from the wall next to me.

"You decent?" Sophie asked

"Yeah" I replied

"Good" Suddenly the wall between her stall and mine was gone.

"Much better." She said.

"What did you just do?" I asked.

"Nothing just a little silencing charm and transparency one" she said eyeing me. She was wearing a red colored bathing suit, more like bra and knickers. "Why are you still all dressed?"

"You don't expect me to walk around with this. Do you?" I asked pulling on the strap around my neck.

"Well if you want the worst tan lines then sure. I mean i guess the farmer's tan will do" Sophie said.

"I don't even tan. Whenever the sun hits me I only manage to get more freckles." I complained.

"Are you a witch or not?" She exclaimed. "We have spells and oils for that" I rose an eyebrow

"Just put some of this tanning oil. It's made for your type of skin. You won't turn too dark, but you will get a good shade. It just makes it easier for you to tan naturally." I hesitated before taking the small bottle from her. Reluctantly I took my shirt and shorts off and put the oil all over me.

"Good. Now lastly" She said before flicking her wand on me. "Don't worry it's just a sunburn charm. It is not fun being sunburned" she shrugged, "Now let's go before the muggles get suspicious." With a flick of her wand the wall was back.

I have never felt more exposed in my life. How do girls walk around in their undergarments as if it is no big deal? The bikini as Sophie called it was a green colored one. I must admit it's a nice color, almost like an emerald.

"Lighten up Ginny" Sophie ordered, "You look hot right now. You have the perfect body for that bikini." I guess she was right. I did feel pretty.

"I guess it's not too bad. Plus my mum would faint if she saw me in this." I laughed picturing mum catching me. Her expression would be worth it. We placed our towels on the sand with the plastic box beside Sophie.

"What is that?" I asked poking the box.

"Oh that? It's a cooler. It keeps the drinks cold" She laughed opening it. Dad would love this. As soon as I thought of dad that feeling of sadness that I have grown accustomed to rumbles in me. Not today I urged. I want to have fun without any sad thoughts. The sun felt good on my skin. Sophie pulled out some dark glasses and handed them to me. Apparently they block out the sun. My mind went back to what Sophie said earlier today. She's definitely not like a mum, she is way too crazy for that. She is definitely like the cool older sister.

"Hey Gin. Your belly is pretty flat a belly button ring would definitely look nice on you." Yes definitely an older sister. I'm guessing a belly button ring is that metal thing she has on hers. That doesn't sound too bad "So what's up with Henry. I'm almost surprised that I didn't have to beat him with a stick to get this day with you." She joked.

"I don't know. He's been acting odd lately. One minute he's happy and then the next he's in his own world and then mad. It's like he's on his man period" I joked earning a good laugh.

"He and Sirius are both very similar. Both have a haunted look in their eyes. Some days they are so full of life and then the next they just seem just out of it."

"Yeah. I wonder why"

"They never talk of it. So what did you say that made him so mad"

"I don't know. We were just talking about dinner and I mentioned eating with Russell so he wouldn't feel bad for being able to eat with me."

"Really?" Sophie asked. I could almost swear she was smiling. If only she didn't have those sunglasses on. It's not like Henry likes me.

After a little while we got too hot and went into the water. It was freezing! I must admit I enjoyed it though. It was like the times I would jump into the pond behind the burrow. I did miss that the most about the summer. I love to swim. After a little while of jumping over the waves and having splash fights we relaxed and enjoyed the bit of sun that was left.

"It's getting late. Why don't we change and then I can send out stuff back to the hotel. I figure since we are so close to Coney Island that we could take a walk on the boardwalk and ride on some of the rides. Whatya say?"

"Sure" I grinned. I have no idea what's in Coney Island, but from the look in Sophie's eyes I can tell it is great.

We walked along the boardwalk enjoying the view. It was absolutely beautiful. The sun was setting so it created this beautiful orange glow that brightened the walk. Along the boardwalk different lights were slowly turning on almost like 42nd street, but not as extravagant.

"Brilliant!" I exclaimed when we arrived. There were 'rides' everywhere! It was crowded with many children of every age.

"Well Ginny. Where should we start?"

"The beginning would be nice" I laughed. We went on every ride we could. Sophie brought us wristbands. The rides were almost as thrilling as riding a broom. My favorite was the ring of fire. It was a large wheel with a car inside that spins in a circle through the wheel. It increases speed and at one point you go upside-down. I loved it! We went on other rides like the scrambler and bumper cars.

"Okay so I saved the best for last. We are going on the Cyclone"

"The what?"

"Cyclone. It's a wooden rollercoaster. You'll love it come on!"

There was barely a line for the ride, which did scare me. All the other rides had decent lines. It looked like an unsafe deathtrap. You could practically hear it creaking.

"Is this safe?" I gulped earning a wicked grin on Sophie's face.

"For the most part" she laughed. I swear she looked just like Sirius right there.

She bought the tickets for it and guided me through the deserted path to the cyclone. We didn't have to wait long before being strapped to the wooden seats. The metal bar they placed over us did not feel very safe.

"Ready?"

"Not really"

"Good" She laughed. I have never seen her so carefree.

As soon as the roller coaster started to move she threw her hands in the air and wore a large smile on her face. I'm sure she would never let me go on a ride that would hurt me.

"Ouch I can't believe you let me go on that" I complained trying to rid my head of that headache.

"Oh come on it wasn't that bad"

"It was fun. I mean I never thought anything but quidditch or just riding a broom could be so thrilling, but honestly they need to fix those kinks. How is your head not pounding?"

"Here take this" She laughed handing me a bottle of this nasty looking brown liquid.

"What is this? It looks like mud"

"Headache potion"

"hey you cheated!" I laughed noticing that the bottle was half empty.

"Me? Just drink it" With hesitation I uncorked the potion and smelled it.

"it smells like mud" I groaned. I put it to my lips and with one gulp swallowed it all. It was the nastiest potion I have ever taken. Within a few seconds my headache went away.

"Better?" I glared at her. "I take it that's a good sign. Come on let's go eat. I know the perfect place"

Minutes later we found ourselves eating the "best hot dogs" as Sophie calls them. We were in a place called Nathans. It was pretty crowded so we had to eat and walk.

"MmM" I said. This was definitely worth the wait.

"Told you it was good." We walked and ate our hot dogs in pure bliss. This day was definitely a great one. it was exactly what i needed

A few days after our girls day at the beach I found myself in the hotel standing at the reception desk. There weren't any scheduled reservations today so I just sat down thinking over the past few days. Henry had barely talked to me, which I honestly had no clue why. This was only partially on my mind. As a matte of fact my mind was on the fact that today all my friends were on their way to Hogwarts. The calendar on the desk had reminded me when I noticed the date was September, 1. I wonder what everyone is doing. Is Hermione sitting with Luna? I wonder how they are.

Hogwarts Express

Hermione Granger found herself sitting with Luna. The summer had gone by excruciatingly slow this year. After the New York trip she had barely seen Luna or any of her friends for that matter. She hated to admit it but she missed everyone terribly especially Ginny. Right now if Ginny were here the compartment would be louder and more full. Usually when people saw Ginny in here they would sit down. Last year Demelza, Luna, Neville, Colin, and then later Ron, Dean, and Seamus joined them. Hermione remembered being hesitant at first with such a big group, but after a little she felt comfortable. Now the compartment just felt empty and lonely. Luna sat off in the corner reading her Quibbler. At least I still have Luna, She thought.

"You the more you worry about things the worse you make the outcome" Luna said still gazing at her Quibbler.

"I know Luna. I just can't help it. I feel like I betrayed my family, yet did something amazing for Ginny. I'm so conflicted!" I yelled just as the compartment door opened.

"Er- Sorry am I interrupting something?" A shy voice asked. Ron Weasley was standing at the door. He was wearing an old pair of jeans with a dark blue jumper.

"No not at all" Hermione said with what she only hoped was a straight voice.

"Right. Well I am going to go find Colin or Neville. You two try not to argue" Luna said before giving Hermione one last look and then leaving.

"So er- how was your summer?" Ron asked taking a seat across from Hermione

"It was actually a bit boring. What about you?" his eyes darkened.

"It was alright. How was your trip with your parents?" He asked watching me intently. I can't lie to him. I don't want to lie to him. All thoughts went to the letter Ginny wrote for Ron. For some reason I knew that it was I who had to hand it to him in person. So I sent all the letters to his family via Owl. Initially the ministry sent officials to my house to ask me questions, but I guess my answers were good enough because they never came back. I remember hearing one say, "At least this one is sane" so I can only guess that they had a meet with Luna before me.

"Hermione" Ron called out again; his eyes were darker than usual.

"Yeah."

"Do you know where my sister is?" He asked. She couldn't meet his gaze. Instead she sighed rather loudly, "I knew it!" He yelled. This time the tips of his ears grew red; that is never a good sign. "How could you?" He yelled angrily, "Do you know what my parents are going through? They have been a wreck ever since. How could she be so selfish? What in Merlin's name were you thinking? Where is she?" He yelled. He was standing up and pacing. Hermione was just watching him hoping that he would calm down. "How could you be a part of this? I thought you were smarter than this! How could you be so selfish! Doesn't my family mean anything to you?" He yelled. That was just enough to fuel Hermione's anger.

"For your information Ronald I had every right to help her! It was not as immature and selfish as you think. Do you know how difficult this was? I think if you knew the facts then you would understand why I did what I did. I am sorry for your parent's sadness, but they should have thought about how Ginny was affected!"

"The facts? What's more to know? My only sister ran away because she felt like it! Now my family is going through a lot all because she was selfish. I can't believe you helped her. You are just as much to blame! How could my family ever have trusted you?" Ron yelled. His words cut her deep, but she refused to let it show Hermione was so tempted to yell back, but she knew it would get her nowhere. Instead as he yelled some more she opened her purse and pulled out the envelope that Ginny had given her. It was now or never.

"Ron shut up!" Hermione yelled angrily, "This is a letter Ginny gave me to give to you. If you really want to know what is going on with her then I suggest you read it. Yes I was with her and yes I helped her leave, but you of all people should know that I wouldn't do this unless I really had to." Hermione scolded before dropping the letter onto the seat next to him and leaving. Ron wasn't sure if he should be mad or curious. Angrily he picked up the letter and just stared at it. He was half tempted to just throw it or rip it. Hermione was right, if he wanted any answers than he needed to read this. Reluctantly he sat down and opened the letter.

Ron,

If you're reading this then I have a feeling you just let Hermione have the worst of your temper. Hermione is the real reason on why i am writing this. She was so worried about how you would react so I thought I would write this so you could understand. I really hope you don't let this get in the way of how you feel for her. She's a great person and I know you like her. Now onto big business I know you are probably furious at me. Out of everyone I know I need to tell you what happened because out of all of our brothers, you are the one I grew up with the most. Before you try to judge me, you need to understand something. I love our family more than anything. I would never leave unless I have to. As the youngest and only girl you have always been the most protective of me, especially when it comes to boys. Well on my 15th birthday mum and dad for reasons I do not understand tried to get me to sign over my life. They invited Michael Corner. Yes my ex-boyfriend the one who you and the twins decided to prank. You see apparently I am arranged to be married to Michael Corner and of course this means I have no choices. What have I wanted all my life? I wanted freedom to make my own decisions and just be on my own. If I get married to Michael then that means my life belongs to him. I refuse to marry that arse. So I am sorry if I upset you by leaving, but honestly I do not regret it. Hermione and Luna both offered to help me, though Hermione didn't like the idea of me leaving. Now I suggest you go apologize to Hermione. You both need each other. Stop being Stubborn!

Ginny

P.S. So how's everything? Hermione knows how to reach me. I'm sure she will let you if you just talk to her!

Wow that is a lot to think about, Ron thought.

"Ginny?" A voice called out. I was staring at the book in front of me daydreaming still at the reception desk.

"Oh Henry. What are you doing here?" I asked

"Nothing I just wanted to see what you and Sophie were up to." He shrugged. I don't know if I want to smack him for ignoring me or hug him for remembering that I exist. "Oh sorry about not talking to you. My uncle and soon his "friend" are visiting from England. They wanted to see me before we leave.

"Ah Ginny it feels like I haven't seen you forever." Sirius said walking inside. Behind him were two people. "Oh this is Remus and my cousin Nyph- I mean Tonks"

"Nice to meet you" I called out. Tonks had this amazing bubble gum pink hair. She was staring at me oddly until her eyes narrowed.

"Oh Merlin. You can't be Ginevra Weasley are you?" The woman named Tonks asked with wide eyes.

Author's Note: There it is. What you think for a cliffhanger? I know i exaggerated Brighton Beach, but hey i love that beach. Also i know that the plot isn't exactly the most 'stable' one but i am trying. I just figured its only natural to want to explore the sights when in another country. Plus it's the summer. Next chapter will be Tonk vs ginny and then School! So please Review i love hearing from you all. Thanks for those that have been with me since the beginning and to my new readers.