A/N A nice long chapter for you
It was a subdued family dinner at the Potter's that night. Emma kept the conversation going with talk of the new shops she'd seen in Diagon Alley. Harry perked up a bit when she mentioned WWW and how friendly the owners were to her and AJ.
Lily exchanged a look with James. The Weasley family seemed to be invading their life. Even James had mentioned he'd worked with Arthur Weasley, the patriarch of the family, and found him to be a nice man, and very family orientated.
"Mum, can we go shopping for a dress for the Ball?" asked Emma. "I've changed my mind on what I want to wear," she said. "I saw this cute little dress shop, 'Delacours', and there was a dress in the window to die for," she sighed, longingly.
"Sure, sweetie, we'll go tomorrow," said Lily, smiling at her daughter. It would be nice to do some mother/daughter things with Emma again. Deciding to send Emma to Beauxbatons had been hard, but Dumbledore had lost all the Potters trust many years ago due to his ideas on how to deal with the prophecy, so Hogwarts wasn't even an option for any of her children as far as Lily was concerned.
"I don't believe it," groaned AJ, reading an owl that had just come for him. "Chelsea won't make it back in time for the Ball."
Emma snatched the parchment from him and read it quickly. "Ooh, she found treasure in Egypt. That's such a cool job, treasure hunter."
"Enough, Emma," said Lily. She turned her attention back to her youngest son. "I'm sorry to hear that, Andrew. Perhaps the two of you could go together?" She looked at her two youngest children.
Emma and Andrew looked horrified, making Harry chuckle. "I'm not going with my brother/sister," they both exclaimed at once.
"Harry, who are you going with?" asked James, trying to include him in the conversation. He had been quiet all afternoon and evening. Hermione had said she'd had no word from Ginny since she'd done the interview with IQ magazine on Monday, and now it was Wednesday. Hermione said she hadn't even heard from Ron, apart from an owl to say he was out of town for the week, and would be home on Friday, in time for the ball.
"I had hoped to go with Ginny," he sighed. "I guess I'll have to catch up with her there."
"The magazine with her interview is out tomorrow," said AJ. " Mum, how are the tickets selling for the ball?" he asked.
Lily flushed and looked away. "Nearly sold out," she said.
James, Emma and AJ looked confused. "Isn't that a good thing?" asked James.
Lily sighed. "Apparantly, one of the nurses at the hospital saw Ginny's and my first meeting, and told someone about it, and, well, gossip being what it is, everyone is expecting Ginny and I to get into a big cat fight at the Ball. Over Harry," she said, exasperated.
There was silence, then sniggers of laughter.
"No offence, Mum, but my money is on Ginny," snickered AJ. "Six brothers, enough said!"
"Sorry son, a protective mama will always win out. Lily for the win," winked James.
"With Harry as the prize? Ugh. Hey, I get first dibs on his bedroom if Ginny wins," said Emma.
"What-will you stop it! Emma, what's wrong with your own room? Merlin, this thing with Ginny is getting out of control," groaned Lily, her head in her hands.
"Harry's room is the biggest, and it overlooks the garden," explained Emma.
"You can have it," said Harry, getting up from his chair and limping out.
"He doesn't even live here any more, Emma. Which reminds me, why hasn't Ernie checked on Harry?" asked James.
"Oh, he doesn't live with Ernie any more. His stuff is at Ginny's," said AJ.
Harry suddenly re-appeared. "What do you mean, a nurse saw your first meeting with Ginny? What happened?" he asked his mother. He turned to AJ. "My stuff is at Ginny's?"
AJ grinned and nodded. "She insisted. Already hanging up in the second bedroom."
Harry felt a surge of hope in his chest. He turned back to his mother. "Well?"
AJ intervened. "Come on, Em, let's leave them to it," he said, nudging his sister.
She waved him off, her eyes on Harry and her mother. "Nah, I don't want to miss this. You go."
"Go!" said James and Lily, together.
Emma looked at Harry, who smiled softly at her and nodded slightly. "Fine," she said, defiantly. "But I want to hear everything later."
Harry sat at the table with his parents. "Mum, Dad, I've come to some big decisions about my life," began Harry.
"Harry, I-"
"Please, Mum," said Harry, holding up his hand. "Please, let me finish." He took a deep breath. "I've decided to quit the Aurors."
"Harry!" cried James, in surprise.
"Dad, I'm sorry. I know I said I always wanted to be an Auror, and I did, I really did. But during all the training, and even when I finally made it, I just don't think it's what I want to do any more," he said, relieved to get it out in the open.
"What do you want to do?" asked James.
Harry turned to his mother. "If you'll have me, I'd really like to work for the Potter Foundation. Specifically on our children's charities," he said.
"Oh Harry, are you sure?" asked Lily, stunned.
Harry nodded. "There's so much I want to do, so much that my eyes have been opened to, just these last few weeks planning for the fund raiser. Mum, did you know a lot of beaten children that are taken to St Mungo's are actually the result of domestic violence. That means they're being hurt from someone in their family. Can you even imagine? And the orphanage, well, we've already raised a lot of money for the upkeep, which is great, but shouldn't we be trying to get these kids adopted, and into families that actually want children," he said, earnestly.
"Harry, honey, slow down," cried Lily, amid tears of joy. "I would love you to come and work for the Foundation. It sounds like you've found a real passion for it," she said.
"I have, Mum. Working with, and for the children, it's just something I think I can really be good at," he said. "I know that sounds strange, after only being involved in the last few weeks, but-"
"Oh, pooh, you've found your calling in life, it doesn't make a difference how long it takes," said Lily, happily.
"Then why does it bother you when I say I've fallen in love with Ginny in a few weeks?" asked Harry, quietly. "What happened at the hospital, Mum?"
"Andrew sent us an owl, saying you had been badly injured. We left immediately, stopping only to get Emma in France. We left Emma at home when we finally returned to England, and we came straight to the hospital. It was really early in the morning," said James, shooting a look at his wife, encouraging her to continue.
Lily took a deep breath. "Your father and I went straight to your room, and she was there; Ginny. She thought we were the nursing staff, come to do your quarter hourly checks. She, erm, told us to leave you alone, rather colourfully. I admit that got my back up," said Lily.
"She stayed with me? All night?" asked Harry, stunned.
"Sorry, son, I completely forgot to tell you," said James, looking ashamed.
Lily nodded. "We had words, and I told her this was a family matter and that she should go. She agreed, but only went out to the waiting room. When I looked out for your brother and sister a while later, they were sitting with her. I-I thanked her for her concern and told her to leave," said Lily.
Harry looked pale. "All this time I've been wondering if what we shared didn't mean as much to her as it did to me. Wondering why I haven't heard from her, and all this time, it's been because of your interference," he said, upset.
"Harry, I'm sorry. Please, honey, we had no idea the two of you had gotten close, let alone moved in together," cried Lily, clearly distraught.
" Ernie and I had a falling out, and I told him I was moving out. AJ and Ginny went to get my stuff from the apartment because I had to work. Ginny offered to let me move in with her, and I was going to tell her yes that night," said Harry.
"Boy, how long were we gone for?" asked James, scratching his head. "It seems as if your whole life has changed while we've been away."
This broke the tension in the air, and Harry chuckled; so did James.
"Harry, I truly am sorry. You've always been steady and level headed, I guess I just thought this girl had gotten to you and you weren't thinking with your big head, if you know what I mean," said Lily.
"Mum!" gasped Harry, turning red. "I-I- geez!" He got up and limped out, ignoring his father who was howling with laughter.
Lily sighed. "How can I make this right?" she asked. She looked at James, who was now back under control. "I need to make this right."
"Yeah, you do," agreed James. "I think you know what you need to do."
Lily nodded. "How did I get it so wrong, James? Harry has never given us any trouble whatsoever, so why didn't I trust his feelings for Ginny?"
"You said it yourself, Harry has never given us any trouble. He was a good scholar and we never had to go through any of that teen hassle with him like we did with Emma. Hell, he even followed me into Auror training," said James.
"He always said it was what he wanted to do," reminded Lily. "Both boys did. I only wanted the best for them both, in everything, but particularly the women they'll end up with."
" Face it, Lil, you're finding it hard to admit you're not the number one witch in your eldest son's life any more," said James, gently.
"I just thought I'd be the kind of mother that would be happy for him, and welcome her into our lives," sighed Lily.
"It's not too late," reminded James. "Ginny still doesn't know Harry intends on moving in with her. In fact, why hasn't she owled?"
"Her owls were re-directed to the Potter Foundation," admitted Lily, "not the house."
"Lily," groaned James, shaking his head. "You have to make this right, or Harry will be so angry."
"I will, I promise," said Lily.
"How?" asked James.
"I'll think of something," said Lily, determinedly.
HGHGHG
Early the next morning, Lily rose early to have breakfast with her husband before he went to work. She still hadn't come up with anything good to make things right with Ginny.
She flicked indifferently through the Daily Prophet, when a photo of Ginny caught her eye. She read the accompanying article, which was a synopsis of the IQ interview.
She smiled at Ginny's statement of doing more in the way of charity work for the children. Obviously she and Harry were alike in that regard.
Suddenly, an idea came to her head. She checked the time. It was early, but Hermione always arrived in the office early. Taking a chance she threw some Floo powder in the fire-place. "Hermione, are you there?"
Hermione's beaming face soon appeared. "Mrs Potter, good morning. I was just wondering if it was too early to fire-call you. I have wonderful news. The Hope Ball is a sell out," she exclaimed.
Lily was ecstatic. "Hermione, that's wonderful news!" Then she stopped. "Although you know why it's a sell out, don't you?"
Hermione flushed. "I think it's horrid, the rumours that are spreading. I'm denying them, of course, but as Ronald and I are dating and I work for you, no-one is listening to me," she said, frustrated.
"Ronald?" asked Lily.
"Ronald Weasley. He's Ginny's brother and manager," said Hermione, proudly.
"That's wonderful news, Hermione. Listen, can you come to the house as soon as you can. Bring over any correspondence, we'll go through it here. I have something I want you to do, and it needs to be done today, so we can make tomorrow's edition of the Daily Prophet," said Lily.
"Of course. I should be there within half an hour," said Hermione.
"Excellent. I'll see you soon," said Lily.
The flames died down just as Harry limped into the kitchen. "Morning, Mum. Who was that?" he asked, sitting down and reaching for the paper.
"Oh, Hermione, dear. Now, is Andrew taking you to your physiotherapy today?" asked Lily, pouring him a cup of tea.
Harry nodded at Lainey's suggestion of scrambled eggs and toast for breakfast. "Yes, he is. Should be here soon." He didn't tell his mother that he was hoping to persuade AJ to take him to Ginny's after.
"Good. Will you be back for lunch?" she asked.
"Erm, I don' think so," he said. He hoped not, anyway.
"Well, if you're up to it, why don't you come to the Foundation's offices, see if we can find you an office of your own," beamed Lily.
"I guess I should swing by the Ministry and give my formal resignation first," sighed Harry. He tucked into the huge plate Lainey placed in front of him.
Emma came in next, yawning and stretching. "Morning,"she said, dropping a kiss on Harry's head, then her mother's cheek. "Mum, what time are we going to Diagon Alley?" she asked.
"Oh, erm, something has come up this morning and -" began Lily.
"Mum! I HAVE to have that dress," wailed Emma.
"Can't you owl them, ask them to hold it for you? Or fire-call?" asked Harry, grimacing at his sister's wails. It was way too early for female histrionics.
"I guess I could try," said Emma, brightening up. She went to the fireplace in the lounge that Lily had just used to speak to Hermione. She knelt and threw some floo powder in the fire.
"Delacours," she called out.
" allo?"
"Hello, are you the owner of Delacours?" asked Emma.
"Oiu, I am Fleur Delacour. 'Ow may I 'elp you, mademoiselle?" asked Fleur.
"You had a lovely blue dress in your window yesterday. Is it still available?" asked Emma.
"Oui, yes. Would you like me to hold it for you, cherie?" asked Fleur.
"Oh, yes please," said Emma.
"I shall put ze dress away for you. Will you come in today?" asked Fleur.
"Yes, possibly after lunch. Oh, my name is Emma, Emma Potter," said Emma.
"Potter? Are you 'arry's sister?" asked Fleur.
"Yes! You know him?" asked Emma, looking back at Harry. He hadn't heard anything; he was still eating his breakfast.
"I met him ze ozzer day, at the Burrow. I am married to Ginny's brother, Bill," said Fleur, happily.
Emma chuckled. "I can't wait to meet you, Fleur. You and I have got a lot of talking to do. I'll see you in a while."
"I look forward to it, cherie. Please give our best to 'arry!" said Fleur, and the flames died down.
Emma was still chuckling as she went to the kitchen. "What's so funny?" asked Harry.
"The Weasleys are taking over our life. Oh, in a good way," said Emma hurriedly, as Harry glared at her.
"What do you mean?" asked Harry.
"I just spoke to the owner of 'Delacours', who is holding that dress for me. Nice lady, Fleur. I can't wait to meet her," said Emma.
"Fleur? Her name is Fleur?" asked Harry.
"Yes. Fleur Delacour Weasley, married to-"
"Bill Weasley," said Harry. Emma nodded and grinned.
"What about Bill Weasley? Nice chap, he's got some great curse breaker stories," said AJ, strolling in and knicking a piece of toast from Harry's plate.
"I just spoke to his wife. She's holding a dress for me in her shop," said Emma.
"Speaking of clothes, have you got a suit to wear tomorrow night, or are you wearing dress robes?" AJ asked Harry.
"I think I'll wear my suit from Uncle Remus and Tonks' wedding," said Harry.
"That was, like, years ago," cried Emma. "You have to look nice for Ginny, you know."
"I think Ginny likes what's under his suit," teased AJ.
"Hey," protested Harry.
"AJ, take him to get a new suit. I can ask Fleur if she knows what colour dress Ginny is wearing tomorrow night, and you can get matching accessories. Ooh, you should send her some flowers too," said Emma, getting totally swept up in the romance.
"Already ordered," said Harry, smugly.
AJ and Emma looked impressed. "How about we meet up in Diagon Alley after lunch?" suggested AJ. He looked at Harry. "Do you think your leg will be up for it?"
"Let's just see how physio goes," said Harry. "and, erm, the other," he said, with a look at AJ.
Emma looked between them. "You're going to see Ginny! she squealed.
"Ssh, I don't want Mum to know," said Harry, looking over his shoulder.
Emma sighed happily. "This is so exciting. It's like Romeo and Juliet, where the parents have forbidden the lovers to be together. Or Cinderella, because we're going to a big ball," she sighed.
"Geez Em, we're not fictional characters in a story you know, we're real people," chuckled Harry. "But thanks for the support, guys, I really appreciate it."
"Harry, once Mum and Dad get to know Ginny and see how happy she makes you, everything will be fine. They just met under a stressful situation, that's all," said AJ. "Both of them worried about their darling Harry!" he teased.
"I can't wait to meet her properly either. I always wanted a sister," sighed Emma.
"It's early days yet, Em," warned Harry. Then he smiled at her. "But you're going to love her, and she'll love you. After all, she tolerates AJ."
"Oy! Tolerates? She adores me," protested AJ.
"Well, she obviously has good taste, cos us Potters are pretty awesome," said Emma, throwing her arms around both her brothers and fluttering her eyelashes.
"You know, I'm feeling in such a good mood, I might even buy you that dress," said Harry, kissing his sister's cheek as he limped off to get ready for physio.
"And that's how it's done," Emma said smugly to AJ. "I think I'll go shoe shopping, now I'm getting a free dress!"
AJ laughed and shook his head at his sister as she went to get dressed. Lainey, the house elf came to remove the breakfast plates. "You love me, don't you Lainey."
"Mister Andrew is a handsome, charming boy. Spells trouble for some young miss," said Lainey.
"Boy? Lainey, you wound me, I'm a man. I'm 23," protested AJ.
" Lainey did wipe your bottom when you were a baby," said the house elf. "Mister Andrew will always be a boy to me."
AJ winced. "Lainey! I'm suffering here, middle child syndrome. Can't you be sympathetic?" he asked. "Not the first born, not the baby or the only girl. Just me, handsome, charming me," he sighed.
"Well now, I thought you were talking about me for a minute, AJ," grinned Sirius, as he stepped out of the Floo.
"Uncle Sirius! Good to see you. Tell me the truth, I'm your favourite, aren't I?" teased AJ, getting up to give his uncle a hug.
"Indubitably," agreed Sirius. He'd had this conversation with all the Potter kids at one time or another, and his answer was always the same.
"How was the holiday?" asked AJ, as they both sat back down.
"Fine, fine, although your mother and Marli were sure Tonks was going to go into labour while they were away, then we got word on Harry. How is he?" asked Sirius.
"Brilliant. He's in love and the whole Potter house is in upheaval," grinned AJ.
"Sounds about right," grinned Sirius.
"He's even giving up his job as an Auror," confided AJ.
Sirius whistled. "Bet James was upset about that," he said.
"Don't know," shrugged AJ. "Do you think he would be?"
"Why, you're not cutting out too, are you?" joked Sirius. When AJ didn't reply he looked at the boy he considered a second son. "Seriously?"
"Pun?" asked AJ. When Sirius shook his head in the negative, he sighed. "Yeah, I'm thinking about it. Seriously."
"Whew," breathed Sirius. He looked at AJ. "How long were we gone for? Seems a whole lot has gone down while we've been away."
"You have no idea," grinned Harry, limping in and hugging Sirius. "Hows Marli?"
"Wonderful as ever," grinned Sirius, hugging him back. "How are you, Harry?" he asked in concern.
"Never better," said Harry, whistling. "You ready?" he asked AJ.
AJ arched his eyebrows at Sirius at Harry's happy mood, and shrugged.
"Oh here, a bit of reading while we're away. You want pages 93-96," said Harry, throwing him a magazine. "Come on, AJ. St Mungo's," he called, throwing Floo powder into the fireplace.
"What is it?" asked AJ, curiously.
Sirius held the magazine up. "IQ."
"See the girl on the cover?" asked AJ.
Sirius whistled and panted. AJ grimaced. "You may want to stop that. That's her, Ginny. Henceforth to be known as Harry's Ginny," he said, "unless Ginny's around," grinned AJ.
"Damn, he's fallen for a Harpy," said Sirius. "Brave man."
"Don't believe all the rumours, Ginny's not like that," said AJ. "I've got to go. Talk to you soon, old man," he grinned.
"Old man," grumbled Sirius. "What does he know, anyway. He's just a kid."
He settled back to read the magazine, impressed with Ginny's words. Still, the proof would be when he met her the following night at the ball. No wicked witch was setting a noose around his god- son's neck, Harpy or not.
HGHGHG
Lily nervously knocked on Ginny's door again.
"Mum, I don't think she's home," said Emma.
The door swung open. "Come in," called a female voice.
Emma and Lily exchanged concerned looks before they hesitantly went inside. They jumped as the door swung shut behind them.
"So sorry. I was up to a really interesting part of my book, and I didn't want to stop," said the voice.
Emma and Lily looked around. Lily immediately saw the family photo of the Potters that Ginny had put out for Harry. Emma saw the strange girl sitting in the little nook, reading a book upside down. The book, that is, not the girl.
There was silence for a minute or so. "There, done," she said, lowering the book. "Hello, welcome to Ginny's apartment," she said, her big blue eyes staring at the other two women.
"Do you live here?" asked Emma.
"No," said the other witch.
"Well then, why are you here?" asked Lily.
"I'm waiting," she said. She looked keenly between the two women.
"Well, for what?" asked Emma, when she wasn't forthcoming with the information.
"Harry," she said.
"Harry Potter?" asked Lily.
The witch shrugged. "I don't know any other Harry's," she said. She stood and moved closer to them, staring keenly at them and making them nervous. "You all have the same eyes. You are his family," she said happily.
"Yes, erm, I'm his mother, Lily, and this is my daughter, Harry's sister, Emma," said Lily. She gasped as the unknown witch stepped close to her.
"Kia Ora, Lily Potter," she said, and rubbed noses with her. She then turned to a surprised Emma and rubbed noses with her. "Kia Ora, Emma Potter. My name is Luna. Harry taught me that, you know."
"Erm, hello, Luna. So, you know Ginny?" asked Lily, a little taken aback by this Luna and her greetings.
"Oh yes, we've been friends for many years," beamed Luna.
"And you've met Harry," surmised Emma.
"Oh yes, we've been friends for many days," beamed Luna.
"How did you meet?" asked Emma.
"Oh, he had an erection," said Luna. She looked at Lily, who had gasped. "It's okay, Ginny took care of that for him. I didn't meant to interrupt when I fire-called later, but Ginny didn't even stop, she just kept going," smiled Luna.
Lily opened her mouth, but she honestly had no idea what she was going to say.
"Do you mean...?" gasped Emma, flushing as she looked at Luna, then her mother.
Luna smiled at her and nodded. "I had a really long bath that night, let me tell you," she said.
Emma's eyes were wider than they had ever been before. "But, but, but..."
Luna smiled. "He does have a nice butt. Lucky Ginny. Rolf has a nice butt too, lucky me."
"Ginny! Where is Ginny," gasped Lily, feeling faint.
"Away. She'll be back tomorrow," said Luna.
"Why are you waiting for Harry?" asked Lily.
"He lives here now, only he doesn't know it," said Luna. "He was injured. I sent a Dirigible Plum to St Mungo's, it's supposed to help with healing. I hope he got it."
"He's, erm, doing well, thank you," said Lily. "If Ginny isn't here, I guess we should go," she said.
"We could stay a bit longer," said Emma, smiling at Luna. She really wanted to get to know her better and find out more about Harry and Ginny.
"No, we need to go and look at your dress for the ball," said Lily.
"Oh, you should go to 'Delacours'. Fleur always dresses nice," said Luna. "She's dressing Ginny for the ball."
"That's where we're going," nodded Emma. "We're meeting Harry and AJ. You should come too."
"Thank you, no. I already have my dress," said Luna. "Please tell Harry, Luna said Kia Ora," she said. She walked back to the nook and picked up her book. Without another word, she continued reading. There was silence.
"Erm, well, it was nice meeting you," said Lily. "Goodbye."
"No, never goodbye between friends and I'm sure we'll be friends. Kia Ora, Lily and Emma," said Luna, lowering her book slightly.
"Kia Ora, Luna," grinned Emma. She followed her mother out of the apartment and the door shut behind them. "Well that was interesting."
Lily looked at her daughter, and the two started laughing. "Come on, let's go meet your brothers in Diagon Alley."
"I wonder if Ginny has more friends like Luna?" asked Emma.
"I wonder if Ginny is like Luna?" asked Lily, worriedly.
She and Emma looked at each other and shook their heads. "Nah."
"Come on, let's go buy you that dress," grinned Lily.
"Actually, I really need a pair of shoes to match the dress, Mum," said Emma, hopefully. "Please!"
"Oh, come on," laughed Lily.
The two Potter witches hurried away to Diagon Alley.
HGHGHG
The Ball was well under way, but there was no sign of Ginny. Waiters were mingling with hors'doeuvres and guests were mingling and listening to the string quartet that played. Witches were dressed in their finery, always eager to out shine both friends and frenemies. Every one was admiring the décor, with ivy and roses wrapped around pillars. Roses and candles were the centrepiece on the tables. Hermione and Lily were happy with the effect.
Lee Jordan was happy to be master of ceremonies, and was directing people to the various items people could silently bid for. The many Quidditch items were popular, but so were the weekend get-aways at luxurious wizard locations, and the spa and pamper packs were also popular.
Harry nervously kept a look out for Ginny. Ron had arrived and headed straight for Hermione. He'd told Harry that Ginny and her date would be here within the hour and that was an hour and two minutes ago.
Her date! What the hell? Harry's emotions must have played all over his face, because Ron patted his arm and told him everything would be fine.
Ron then took Hermione over to join his family, who were all seated at one table. Emma had found Fleur and hugged her, very happy with her dress. It was the first time Harry had seen his little sister all dressed up, and he'd realised she was growing up to be a beautiful young woman. He'd seen the way some of the younger wizards had been eyeing her off and made a mental note to speak to AJ to keep an eye on her.
AJ was talking with Sirius and Bill, no doubt about some curse or another. Lily and Marlene were catching up with friends to tell them about their holiday.
Harry spotted Luna with a man, and they were both talking to Fred and George. Neville and Hannah joined them, and Harry almost laughed out loud as Luna and Rolf stepped up to rub noses with the others in greeting.
"Ladies and Gentleman, may I present to you, Ginny Weasley," announced Lee Jordan.
The crowd turned to look at the young witch. Ginny wore her hair up, with tendrils falling to her shoulders. Her shoulders were bare and her dress was a soft black. Her eyes were outlined in smoky black and her lips were bright red. It was the first time Harry had seen her wear make-up and she looked amazing.
"Ginny was chosen to be the spokesperson for the Potter Foundation and, as someone who has known her a very long time, I must say, I think they made a great choice. Ginny comes from a well known family, she attended Hogwarts where she and her brothers were all in Gryffindor. She started her Quidditch career there, successfully playing Seeker in her third and fourth year before playing Chaser her fifth, sixth and seventh year. She was captain of the Gryffindor team in her final two years, where she caught the eye of several pro Quidditch teams. She chose the Holyhead Harpies, and the team has never been stronger. She has gone on to win several awards, including Most Valuable Player, as voted by her peers. Despite the Holyhead Harpies being out of contention for this year's title, Ginny is strongly tipped to make the England training squad for the World Cup. We wish her well."
Thunderous applause broke out as Ginny and her date, who seemed quite nervous, entered the room. Ginny smiled and nodded at people, even stopping to speak to someone and introduce her date. It took them some time, but eventually she made her way to her family.
Harry saw Hermione speak with Ginny, then Ginny spoke with her date and her family before leaving with Hermione. The two witches made their rounds of the room, with Ginny charming them all and talking some of them into bidding higher for the chance to come and train with her.
"Have you spoken to her yet?" asked James, with Sirius standing close by.
"No, she's doing the rounds with Hermione," said Harry.
"She keeps looking around. I think she's looking for you," said Sirius.
"She is?" asked Harry, hopefully.
"I think your mother wants to talk to her first, clear up this misunderstanding between them," said James.
Harry groaned. "What if it doesn't go well?" he asked.
James shrugged. "Then you'll have to put it right," he chuckled, motioning to Sirius to head for the bar.
AJ and Emma pounced on Harry. "Have you talked to her yet?" asked AJ. Harry shook his head, despondently. AJ quickly left.
"I wish my hair was the same shade of red as hers. She looks gorgeous," sighed Emma, enviously."
Harry sighed and nodded. "She does, doesn't she?"
AJ returned. "Okay, I just switched the place settings. Ginny and her date are now sitting at our table, and I placed her next to you," he grinned. Emma laughed and patted him on the back, then paled as she spotted something over Harry's shoulder.
"You guys, Mum's making her move on Ginny," she whispered in warning.
She wasn't the only one. Apparantly, a lot of witches had been keeping their eyes on both Lily Potter and Ginny Weasley, waiting for the cat fight to begin. Whispers and knowing looks passed between many groups as they sipped their wine.
"Come on," said Harry, and he and his siblings headed to where Ginny and Lily were talking.
HGHGHG
"Ginny. May I beg a moment of your time?" asked Lily pleasantly. Inside she was a ball of nerves. Ginny was an unknown factor. Her reputation on the field was fierce and fiery, and Neville, Lily's godson, had confided in her that Ginny felt the same way about her loved ones. He felt blessed to be amongst that group, and said he knew Luna felt the same.
Ginny turned and smiled, the smile dropping only a fraction when she realised who was asking. "Of course, Mrs Potter. You look lovely tonight," she said. Inside her stomach was in knots and if one looked hard enough, one might see her knees actually shaking. This woman held her future happiness in the palm of her hand, and the next few moments would probably make or break her heart.
"Thank you, my dear. I had planned to wear another dress tonight, but my daughter and I went to 'Delacours', and as soon as I saw this dress, I knew I wanted to wear it tonight instead," laughed Lily. James hovered nervously behind her.
Ginny smiled. "Fleur has some lovely dresses, doesn't she? Her mother is the designer, and has a small but successful store in Paris."
"You look lovely too, my dear," said Lily. Ginny nodded her thanks.
Lily moved closer and took one of Ginny's hands in the other. "My dear, I want to apologise for what happened at the hospital. I shouldn't have disregarded your feelings that morning, and for that, I am truly sorry."
Ginny almost sighed in relief. "Thank you, but really, it wasn't the ideal way to meet, was it? After I left, I realised you had been travelling most of the night to get to Harry, and naturally you were worried. Any parent would be," she said.
"Thank you, that's very kind of you," said Lily.
"How is Harry? I don't think he got my owls, and I had to go out of town, and I-"
"Ginny?"
She turned to see Harry, standing close with Emma and AJ slightly behind him.
Ignoring Lily, she went to Harry, her eyes roaming his body. "Are you okay? I've been so-"
Harry cupped her face in his hands and kissed her. Over and over and over. She clung to his arms, kissing him back.
"-worried," she finished, opening her eyes. "Hi," she grinned.
"Kia Ora," he said huskily, rubbing his nose against hers, then kissing her again.
"You're okay? Really?" she asked tenderly.
"I am now," he said, looking meaningfully at her. She blushed and whispered something in his ear, then leaned her head on his shoulder.
"Ahem, they just called everyone to the tables for the second time," said Sirius, looking at the small group, with Harry and Ginny in the middle.
Ginny gasped. "I have to get to Christian, my date," she said.
"About that," said Harry, curiously. "Who the bloody hell is Christian?"
"Hush, you. He's Cassidy's brother. The family are here tonight as my guests," she said.
"I was hoping you would be my date," said Harry, leading her to the family table.
"I asked him and his parents as soon as I knew about the ball. Merlin knows they could do with a night out, and I didn't want the hassle of needing to find a date, and I wasn't going to come with one of my brothers. How embarrassing," said Ginny.
"Tell me about it," groaned Emma.
"Hey!" protested AJ.
People were whispering as they walked to the family table. Christian was already there, talking with Marlene. He was seated next to Emma on one side and Ginny on the other. Ginny had Harry on her other side, and Harry sent AJ a thankful wink. Sirius slid into a seat next to Marlene and James and Lily completed the table.
Christian was a nice young man, mature for his age, no doubt due to dealing with his sister's illness. He happily participated in the conversations around him, yet kept an eye on his parents, who were sitting with the Weasley family. Ginny found that commendable and told him so. He shrugged off her praise, but was pleased.
The meals were delicious, all three courses. During the lull between dinner and dessert, Lee announced the winners of the silent auctions. Ginny didn't know many of the winners, but she clapped hard when her brother Percy won a weekend get-away at a seaside motel.
Lee Jordan continued. "Congratulations to all our winners tonight. Of course, the real winner is the Hope for All orphanage, the reason why we are all here tonight. Now I'd like to bring up on the stage, Miss Ginny Weasley." The crowd applauded heartily.
Ginny took a deep breath. She was nervous about speaking in front of large groups of people. Harry took her hand and squeezed it. "You'll be great," he said, and he kissed her lightly. The crowd applauded harder. Ginny kissed him too, then made her way next to Lee. The two spoke affectionately for several seconds, then Ginny took centre stage.
"Thank you, Lee, and thank you for a wonderful job tonight," said Ginny. Polite applause for Lee followed. Ginny took a breath and looked out into the audience. She found her family, beaming proudly at her. Her parents weren't there, but home, happy to give up their seats for Cassidy's parents to be there.
"I stand before you tonight, proud to have been a part of the Potter Foundation and their fund raiser for the "Hope for All' orphange. Your generosity tonight has been incredible, and will mean so much to the children and their carers. It will mean upgrades and repairs on the house, new clothes, new school books and more reading books. On behalf of the children and the Potter Foundation I applaud you and thank you," she said. More applause followed.
" In the time I have spent with the wonderful people at the Potter Foundation, it has really made me aware of how important it is that we help those less fortunate than ourselves, especially the children. So I ask all of you, please, take the time to help the children. They are, after all, our future.
"In closing, may I just take this opportunity to thank Hermione Granger, Andrew and Harry Potter from the Potter Foundation for their help and advice during this campaign. And to my wonderful supportive family, yes, that crazy loud bunch over there, I love you all," she called.
Her brothers stood and cheered, as did their wives.
" I hope you enjoy the rest of the evening. Thank you, once again," said Ginny, and she made her way off the stage to thunderous applause.
" Beautiful, smart and flies like a demon. Thank you, Ginny Weasley," announced Lee. " Now let's hear it for Lily Potter, head of the Potter Foundation."
Harry and Ginny never really heard any of Lily's speech, as they were too busy gazing into each other's eyes or whispering nonsense to each other. At one point, Harry even stole a kiss.
The applause alerted him to the fact his mother had finished, and the waiters were desperately trying to place their desserts in front of him and Ginny.
A rock band took to the stage, and that was the start of the dancing. Ginny and Harry laughed as AJ dragged his mother onto the floor. Ginny saw several of her brothers dancing with their wives too.
Christian excused himself and went to sit with his parents.
" Do you want to dance?" asked Harry, hoping she'd say no.
" I guess," said Ginny.
" Or we could just get out of here. Now that the speeches are done, the official part of the night is over. I don't know about you, but I'd rather go back to your place and talk," said Harry.
" Just talk?" smirked Ginny. Harry flushed and grinned. " And it's our place now, remember," she said softly.
" So, go?" he asked, hopeful.
Ginny hesitated for a few seconds. She and her brothers had organised for one last surprise, and if she left, she'd miss it. Oh, who cared? She'd hear about it tomorrow. Nodding, she grabbed his hand. " Let's go."
AJ winked when Harry told him to tell their parents he was leaving to go to Ginny's. AJ then decided to go and introduce himself to Luna, having heard lots about her from his mother and sister.
Luna was on the edge of the dance floor, swaying by herself, her hands twirling in the air. "Hello, you must be Luna?"
Luna stopped and looked at him. " Must I?"
AJ faltered for a second. "Erm, I'm Andrew Potter, Harry's brother. You can call me AJ," he said, flashing his charming smile at her.
" Why?" she asked.
" Well, it's my initials, see. Andrew James, AJ," grinned AJ.
" Oh, I don't think so, Andrew James," said Luna, shaking her head. She turned her attention to the dance floor, looking over the crowd. " Have you seen him? I'm hoping he'll perform tonight. Ginny said there would be a surprise, I'm sure it's him!"
" Him who?" asked AJ, turning to see where she was looking. He saw his dad dancing with his mum, and Uncle Sirius dancing with Marli. Nothing out of the ordinary there.
" It is him," said Luna, pointing. " I knew it!"
Sirius noticed AJ and a peculiar young woman pointing at him. He spoke briefly to Marli, who nodded and returned to the table. Sirius headed for AJ. " Hi kids, having fun?" he asked.
Luna blinked up at him, her eyes wide open. " It is an honour to meet you, Mr Boardman. Kia Ora," she said, stepping on her tip toes to rub noses with him.
" Uh, sorry, miss, I think you've mistaken me for someone else," said Sirius, stepping back. Merlin, was that a Butterbeer necklace she was wearing?
Luna saw him looking at her necklace, and immediately took it off and placed it around his neck. " Please, accept this as a token of my discretion and admiration, Mr Boardman. It keeps the Nargles away."
" Miss, please, I'm not this Mr Boardman, really," said Sirius. " I'm Sirius Black."
" This is Luna Lovegood. Ginny's best friend," explained AJ.
Luna smiled. " I understand, Mr Black," she winked. " I had hoped you would be performing tonight. I would have loved to have been able to tell my father I saw the amazing Stubby Boardman perform. But of course, you must get tired of all the requests, all the fans. I shall go and leave you in peace, and if anyone asks, I shall assure them that you are the one and only Sirius Black."
She smiled and walked away. AJ and Sirius watched her go. "What the hell was that?" asked Sirius, bemused. He fingered the necklace. "Who is Stubby Boardman?"
" Uncle Sirius, what are Nargles?" asked Andrew.
Sirius didn't have time to answer, for Marlene ran up to them. " Remus just sent a Patronus. Tonks is in labour. Come on," she implored Sirius.
The two dashed back to the table to meet James, Lily and Emma, then they hurriedly flooed to St Mungo's.
Back at the ball, hundreds of balloons fell from the ceiling. Word soon spread that inside each balloon was a gift certificate from a vendor in Diagon Alley, so the balloons were quickly grabbed and popped. It had been Ginny's surprise that she had organised with her brothers, and her last act as spokesperson for the Potter Foundation.
A resigned Luna watched Sirius leave with the others, explaining it to Rolf. " Ginny must have known he'd want some sort of diversion so he could leave. Once word got out that THE Stubby Boardman of the 'Hobgoblins' was here, there would have been bedlam. Oh, but I did want to introduce you to him, Rolf," she lamented.
" I would have liked to meet him, but now, let me dance with the most beautiful witch in the world. Come, Moonbeam," said Rolf, taking her hand and leading her out to the middle of the dance floor as if he were escorting the queen.
The band started to play ' You're My Patronus', a Stubby Boardman song. Luna nodded knowingly to Rolf and looked around. " These poor people have no idea they were in the presence of greatness, do they." She sighed longingly.
" It our secret to bear, Moonbeam, for Mr Boardman's sake," said Rolf, holding her close and swaying.
" You're right, Rolf. He trusted us to keep his identity a secret, a great honour. Still, I have a feeling I'll see him again, one day," she said.
With that thought to comfort her, she was content to stay in Rolf's arms and they swayed to the music.
/*/*/*/*
AJ had offered to stay to represent the Potter family, and he was heading to the bar when he spotted Gwenog Jones. Smiling, he nabbed two glasses of champagne off a waiter, and headed over to her.
"Gwenog Jones," he stated.
Gwenog turned, a smile on her face that fell slightly when she saw who it was. "Hello, Junior," she drawled, taking a glass from him.
"You're looking lovely tonight," he said, although inwardly he winced at the 'Junior' comment.
She sighed. "What are you, sixteen, seventeen?" she said, although she knew he was older.
"I'm twenty-three," said AJ, "a very mature twenty-three, might I add," he said, winking at her.
Gwenog eyed him, the looked back at the dance floor. She tipped the glass of champagne back and finished the glass. "All right then. Let's go," she said.
"Wh- what?" stammered AJ.
"You, me, one night. Let's go," she said. "Unless you're all talk," she whispered in his ear.
AJ grinned. "I can think of better things to do with my mouth," he teased.
Gwenog smiled, grabbed his hand and led him away to the Apparition site.
.