Harry Potter and the Ancient Shrine of Providence
The Rest of the Story of the Boy that Lived
Book 8 Chapter 13 'The youngest Hero to say bye to'
When the Rolls Royce drove away from the restaurant, Harry knew they would soon be at Colin's funeral. As they were driving down the road, some last minute thoughts came to Harry about all of the people that had died at Hogwarts. Colin's death to him was the closest to the needless lost of a good person that he could think of.
Harry knew that in the scheme of things the loss of an innocent life was bound to happen. Because of Voldemort's lack of humility and regret, this was just a daily occurrence for him. He thought about how Bellatrix and even Snape had seemed to be just another of Voldemort's followers. He had used them and when their value to him was gone, they would just litter the area around him with their bodies. Any inconvenience for him, was to risk death without real reason. His inability to even love one of his most dedicated followers seemed to make him so arrogance about life itself. In the end, his lack of regret had become his downfall.
This kind of arrogance really bothered Harry and in a way that it just didn't make sense to him. How could someone have had no love in them at all? You would have thought Bellatrix would have drawn some intimacy between the two of them, or that he would have at least forgiven her for losing him at the manor. But in the end, she was only important to him because she was just another trusted servant, just like Snape had been. He only used people and just a simple mistake made by her, showed Harry how quickly Voldemort would throw away his most trusted servants, needlessly.
They gave him everything and he took it all, and in return, gave them back nothing. It didn't matter to Tom at all on who he killed, if it meant that it helped him get what he had wanted.
And then it hit him like a hammer. As he thought back into the vision he had had at Bathilda's house last Christmas Eve. Voldemort did try to spare his mother's life several times that night when Snape had asked him to. So he did appreciate Snape enough to do that for him. And when she had refused these opportunities for a number of times, he probably killed her, not so much because she was a Mudblood, but because she was only in the way. He must have had some love then, Harry reasoned. But now it seemed to him, that when he came back to life in the graveyard, it had all disappeared.
This was something to ask them on Friday, because maybe that meant something did happen to him. Maybe it happened on the night his mum saved his life that Halloween or possibly the night that Voldemort had regenerated with his blood. Whatever had happened, it boiled down to one thing that was in common with both of the occurrences and that was Harry himself. Somehow, it must have been something about him that caused Voldemort's first destruction, or the use of his own blood when Voldemort was brought back to full life. Harry had did something to him that everyone had missed including Dumbledore. There had to be something else missing that nobody had thought of.
Suddenly, Ginny elbowing him lightly, snapped him out of his thoughts, as she said, "Harry we're at the church and... are you okay?"
"I was just thinking about Tom Riddle. Something has been on my mind for the last few days." He then smiled as he told her, "I'll tell you about it tonight."
The group started walking together and as they reached the stairs, he saw Seamus and Dean wave to him in the distance. As they reached the doors and walked in, he felt a strange feeling walking through the threshold. He looked at Hermione and then Ginny, though they had both appeared to not have felt anything.
He then walked over next to Auror Hobbs and asked him, "What charm was that at the door?"
Hobbs looked surprised as he replied, "Well, I am impressed Harry. That was something you shouldn't have noticed. That was the Charm of Innocents. Only people who have not been put under the Imperius Curse and aren't using Polyjuice Potion are able to pass freely through it. The Ministry felt that this might be a location that the Death Eaters might want to disrupt, especially since Colin was a Muggleborn wizard.
"All the entries points have been protected here at the church and an anti-apparition jinx has been set, along with a Caterwauling Charm on anyone trying to get in without using the doors. We aren't taking any chances around you Harry, and if nothing happens today, then nobody will ever known about the security here. The Minister and Dawlish are doing everything they can to protect you, but in the most subtle way that they can. I know that you can probably protect yourself, but we also don't want to have any collateral damage here today."
"So wands are not to be seen, I assume," Harry asked. "But do you think they might try?"
"This is really a Muggle event and most of them would be totally unprotected if anyone were to strike here, Harry. They know that you will be trying to protect all life and this would make you or your friends a very easy target for them."
"I understand Hobbs and agree, you're just being prudent in this case," Harry replied. "But do you really feel that they can strike back so fast after what has happened to their side?"
"Anything is possible Harry. As we see it, this is a location where they would have their best chance of success."
Harry nodded to him in understanding and then turned to leave. As they walked into the front foyer, they got in line to sign the attendance book. As Harry looked into the sanctuary, he saw a number of students here that he knew had attended Hogwarts. A large number of DA members were waiting and all of them came up to him to say hello. As much as he didn't want to hear, it seemed most of them wanted to congratulate him on his victory again.
He would soon realized that Colin had a loyal amount of friends from Hogwarts. He noticed a large number of other student's faces as he was led into the sanctuary. He was guided to an area that had been roped off in one side of the old cathedral. He then realized that only his protectors, Ginny's family and the DA were being allowed to sit here by him. He hoped that none of this was really needed, but for now, he had resigned that this was best way to ensure everyone's safety.
Luna and her father showed up and set down just past the area that had been roped off. She looked at him with her dreamily eyes and gave him a nod and a small smile. A total of fourteen of Dumbledore's Army had made it to give their last respects, and Harry knew that with all the other funerals taking place, Colin was being given a very respectful showing.
In the distance, he saw the Headmistress and four of the teachers from Hogwarts. In the back, he saw Hagrid standing because he couldn't fit into a pew. It wasn't a very large funeral, but he knew that still a good number of people with magic had turned out to say bye to this fallen hero.
Just before the funeral started, they brought Colin's casket forward and on it was the Union Jack. Six solders from the Muggle British army were escorting his casket though the isle. This was something that caught Harry totally by surprise. He turned around and asked Hobbs, "Who are they?"
With a smile smile, Hobbs replied, "Two of the solders are in the Ministry and are also members of the Muggle army Harry. The others four are members of the Muggle Special Forces that helped in the roundup of Voldemort's forces. One of the Muggles regulars here was involved with training in France for this operation and is friends with Colin's parents and he felt that his family deserved this respect from our Country. He asked the others to help and they were happy to attend for this young wizard that died while defending his Country."
It was quite obvious to Harry that both the Ministry and the Muggle governments felt that Colin deserved some measurible last due respects from the entire country. He had been a soldier in an army and he had died fighting against the tyranny that plagued his Country. He had fought to protect lives in two worlds that had lived together, and Harry felt that this was a honourable thing that both governments had done. In seeing this, Harry eyes were starting to become wet and in the best way that he could, tried to hold back the tears.
They folded back the flag and opened the casket for display and then the solders moved to be seated toward the rear of the crowd. Shortly before the funeral began, the family was escorted in and when William saw Harry, he quickly waved at him. It was now when the lost of a person as young as Colin started to overcome and get to Harry. Soon he felt a tear leave his eye that dribbled down his cheek. As his nose began to fill up, the sound of his breathing became noisy and he put his arm around Ginny.
As she turned her head and looked at Harry, Ginny realized that he was more than just unsettled. She quickly got a hankie and gave it to him. She quietly told him, "You are the most courageous and noble person here Harry and if anyone besides his family needs to cry, you have that right. That is one of the many reasons why I love you and why Colin admired you Harry." She put her arm on his back and slowly rubbed it, while gripping his free hand with her other.
After a number of songs were sung and different people talked about knowing Colin, Harry realized he would like to say something. When the priest asked if anybody had anything else to say, Harry stood up and walked up to the front. He knew that the Aurors had not been expected this, but he didn't care. Colin's family and everybody here needed to know that he died a hero.
As he got to the lectern, he looked at the people in the crowd and then his eyes stopped at Dennis and his parent's faces. He lingered a moment and then started what he thought would be the hardest speech he had ever made in his life. This was harder then the one he had made at Hogwarts. It was about one of his own members and this was the actual funeral which made it quite personal to him.
And then suddenly, something made him quite comfortable and he knew it came from his heart as he spoke, "I would like to thank everyone in coming to see Colin Creevey today and giving their last farewells to him. My name is Harry Potter and for many of you here, you have no idea on who I am and for reasons you will never know.
"Even after being told that he was too young to be there, Colin decided to stand firm and help delay the enemy. He believed in me so much, that he risked his own life to help me. His sacrifice, helped give me the time to end the reign of one of the most evil people in our time. Much of this information will remain classified, and for most of you here, you will never be told more, then I am telling you now. Because of an honourable young man like Colin, who was fighting on the good side of a good verse evil battle, we are here today, to celebrate his short life and we should all give tribute in his memory.
As Harry looked around, he noticed that most of the audience was spellbound with him. He knew they were thinking on just who this young man could be that was speaking. He continued, "I was made the leader of a group of students that studied the art of self-defence. Each of our members had a good luck charm in a coin like this I hold in my hand. It also was the symbol of membership in our group. Today, I want to leave one with Colin, to show our appreciation that we will always remember our own and will never forget him.
"Colin knew who I was long before I even knew him. He looked up to me with far more praise then I have ever deserved. He was one of my followers at school and it seems like he was always there and wanting to have me give him something to do.
"I was only a year older but I will always remember him in the first year that he started school, I had so many spots in my eyes from all the pictures he took of me." Suddenly a large harmony of laughs were heard around the audience. As soon as it diminished, Harry said, "Many of these pictures are of good memories and because of him, I have a permanent record to remember them by. I will always keep the memory of Colin forever in my mind, and want to say that few people like him are as deserving as Colin was.
"Colin indeed will be remembered by his family, but he most truly deserves to be remembered by all of us here for the great sacrifice that he gave us with the lost of his life. Thank you and I will never forget you Colin."
Harry then walked down into the front of the sanctuary and up to Colin's casket. He paused for a moment in respect for the one that no longer was with them and then placed the coin in his right hand. He quietly said to the fallen wizard, "I'll miss you Colin and thank you." He then turned and headed back toward his seat in the sanctuary.
He knew that all of the Muggle people were looking at him, still wondering whom this very young man was. It was sad that they would not be able to know on how Colin had lost his life, but at least he had been able to give a rough context on what he had done. As Harry got back to his group, Auror Hobbs looked at him with a face showing a little displeasure.
The row got up to let him pass to get back to Ginny, but as he set down the Auror bent forward and quietly whispered in his ear. "Unofficially Harry, that was a very good thing to say and this will help to give most of them some closure that are here today. I understand why you did this, but the Ministry will be a little unhappy with you for doing what you just did. You didn't say anything that was wrong but you just created more questions that the Muggle government will have some problems in explaining. I will need to talked to you later about this."
Once Hobbs had finished, Ginny scooted closer toward him and told him, "That was quite touching Harry and quite right to say." She gave Harry a quick peck on the cheek and Harry grabbed her hand and whispered, "Thanks Ginny."
A few more Muggle friends and family stood up and talked about Colin and then the last one to go up to be heard was Dennis Creevey. He looked over toward Harry and then talked about some of the good memories he had with his brother.
As he neared the end of his eulogy, he caught Harry totally off guard, as he said," I want to say something also about Harry Potter, for I think it is appropriate here today. He is the one most outstanding student that my brother and then me, two years later, wanted to look up to. At times I'm sure we both were a little annoying to him, but Harry is a very special person to us."
As he said that, Harry heard a low murmur of laughs from the crowd.
Dennis then continued, "He always could make anyone, especially a student much younger then himself, feel good when the chips were down.
"He was given in birth a path to follow that nobody would ever want and I have never heard him complain about it. He gave my brother and me, a sense of belonging in a school; even when sometimes a number of its students looked down at people like us.
"I would like to thank the members of Dumbledore's Army for being here today, and Harry Potter for especially talking about Colin. Harry was the one that my brother most looked-up to and tried his best to be like. Harry, I know that Colin would have been very proud to have you here today. And from me and my family, thank you, Harry."
As Dennis returned to his seat, a large number of people turned and again took another look over toward Harry and all he could do was give an appropriate smile to everyone.
A few more songs were sung and then a short sermon was said. After the final prayer, the finality of Colin's last daylight to hit his resting face was here. As the casket was closed up, Harry again had a short moment of teary eyes. It was at that time, Harry knew that he would definitely become an Auror. Being a teacher was good thing too, but he knew for sure, that for now, his calling was becoming an Auror. He would make sure that no other person, would every cause this much grief again in his lifetime.
As the family was escorted out, Harry turned and asked Ginny, "Do you want to go to the grave side service?"
"It is okay… Harry if you want to." She smiled and then she turned and asked Ron, "Harry wants to go. Do you two want to go to the grave side service?"
Both Ron and Hermione looked at each other and then they both said, "yes." So as they all stood up, he motioned to Auror Hobbs and as he came up to him, he told him, "We have decided to go to the burial if it is not very far away."
Hobbs looked at Harry and told him, "I must tell you I think it would be a security threat that would not be worth the risk to you, Harry."
"I understand Hobbs, but I feel I should go and say a final goodbye to his family."
"I have my orders Harry and they are to protect you and try to give you as much freedom as possible," replied Hobbs. "The burial is only about a three-minute drive from the church. We have four other Aurors here available to go with you, so I think that security sould be adequate. I think it would be best to leave a little early and then meet them there. If any cars try to follow us, that will be a clue that something might be getting ready to happen. Also Harry, if Dawlish or Kingsley says anything, just tell them you put your foot down. I'll tell them that you told me that you were going no mater what and this was not an option."
"Thanks Hobbs," replied a smiling Harry. As Dumbledore's Army and the Auror's moved out to the front exits, many people were waiting for him and for the next fifteen minutes, he was shaking many hands of magical and non-magical people. As the procession was getting ready to leave, they all hurried to the limousine and then drove away. Another car came with them that contained two additional Aurors and in just a few minutes time, they were there at the graveyard.
The other two Aurors got out of their car and came back to the limousine. Auror Hobbs turned around and told them, "I want us to look over this area first before you four get out of this car. I think you understand why I want to look for any signs first that might show that we could have a problem."
A few minutes later, the cars in the procession began to arrive and Hobbs returned and told him, "As soon as the last car begins to unload, you can all get out." There was a small procession of only about thirty cars, so in a short time, everyone had walked on over to the family plot of the Creevey's. Harry was surprised on the size of it, for it seemed the family had lived in this area for many generations. A very large and ancient family marker bore out the name and it appeared that several hundred Creevey's had been buried here.
The casket was unloaded and as soon as it was placed on site. Everyone gathered around and the priest gave a quick service and then it was over. Harry and Ginny then walked over to give their respects to Dennis and his parents. Young William was standing next to Dennis and he could obviously tell by his looks, that they were close cousins.
As he walked up to Dennis, he told him, "Hi Dennis. I wish we could have been meeting for another reason today. It is sad we had to be here for this."
He gave Harry a look of thank you, and then Harry moved up to him and gave him a hug. Dennis wrapped his arms tightly around him and told him, "Thanks for coming Harry. You being here meant a lot for me and my parents today."
As they pulled away, Harry looked down at Dennis' cousin and told him, "We'll meet again William. Hopefully next time it will be a lot happily time for all of us."
"Thanks Mr. Potter," replied William.
Harry then looked down at him with a frowning face and William's eyes showed the fear of what he didn't know what he had done. Dennis bent over and whispered to him and a smile suddenly shown on William's face. He looked back up to Harry and told him, "I mean… thanks Harry." Harry smiled back and a number of people that were watching laughed about how Harry was so easily going.
Next was Mr. Creevey and they both shook hands and he told Harry, "I want to thank you Harry for everything you did for both of my sons. I couldn't fault you or anybody on what happened to our son Colin. He was almost seventeen and knew what he was doing. The Headmistress has told us what happened and so it seems that he was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. It could have happened to anyone."
Mrs. Creevey then shook Harry's hand and told him, "Harry I have been told of many stories about you and I have seen you a number of times at King's Cross station, but I never introduced myself. I thank you for everything you have done for my boys and I think Hogwarts overall was very good experience for them. Dennis is already planning to return so he can continue his education. I'm just sorry we had to meet each other in this way." She reached out and gave Harry a hug.
As he started to walk away, William's father stopped him and told him, "I am William Creevey Sr. and you have already met my son today. You seemed to have made a good impact on him at lunch. Can I have a minute of your time sir?"
Harry looked at him and laughed and replied, "Yes and please call me Harry, sir. I am just like you.
Mr. Creevey smiled and replied in a laughing tone, "Well I heard that there are some marvellous things that you can do that most of my family cannot young man."
Harry smiled and told him, "Thank you, sir, but you have two nephews that were blessed to be wizards and both grew up with good character."
William Senior smiled back and told him, "Harry, we have been told that William is also a gifted person like you, but he does not know it yet. He is supposed to go to Hogwarts this fall.
"My wife and I were thinking up to today, not to send him with everything that has happened in the last year. In hearing everything about you and seeing how you and him already have connected in a friendship, it has greatly relieved our fears about losing our only son. I would like to asked you, if you would be returning next year to finish your schooling?" When Harry didn't answer at first, he then asked him. "I think if you return to the school, we will definitely have him attend Hogwarts, so please inform us of your decision as soon as you make it."
Harry then replied, "Yes Mr. Creevey, I am pretty sure I will be returning to school now and it appears I will probably also be teaching this year. I ask you not to say anything about that to your son or Dennis. My life has been so busy the last few days that I haven't had time to make any decision yet on school, or really anything on what I am going to be doing for the rest of my life. I will have to make these decisions soon and I know it will have to be sooner then later because it is something I really need to do."
Mr. Creevey then told him, "Harry for everything I have heard and now seen about you, I understand why my nephew came back to help you. You are a person of great honour and character Harry and you will go far in your world, and I can sense it. A person like you in our world with the right connections has great potential too. I know you are quite busy but it meant a lot for us and my brother's family for you to come here today."
They shook hands and Harry told him, "I am glad that we were all able to make it here today and it was a honour to meet all of yours and Colin's family."
Mr. Creevey then said a few words to Ginny and the both of them turned and started walking toward the other DA members that had come to the cemetary.
As they were nearing the DA, Professor McGonagall came up to them and asked, "Ginny, I need to borrow Harry for a few minutes alone please?"
Ginny looked at McGonagall and then told him, "I'll just go say hi to some friends."
"Thank you Ms. Weasley. I promise I will return him in one piece and this should only take about ten minutes today." She then turned to Harry and told him, "Well how are you holding up today Harry?"
"It has been a little bit of a challenge the last few days, Professor, but I guess I'm getting better at doing this. Tomorrow will be the worst day for me with three funerals, all for people I feel that were now direct family. I haven't even seen Teddy, my godson yet…" Harry paused for a moment and then told her. "I guess I am at least looking foreward tomorrow to see him."
"Harry I really have to admire you for what you have done. What you said at the memorial service and here today, could have not been said any better by anyone. You have really shown that you have met the challenge that was thrust upon you. I think you can meet any challenges that may come your way in the future."
"Professor, I am worried about that for both Ginny and me. I just don't have the power that many people think that I have. You know what my grades were like at school and here you're telling me this like I can save everyone again!"
McGonagall looked at Harry and took a moment of time to think of how to exactly answer this young hero that just could not accept the true facts that he was a real hero.
Harry then replied to her silence by saying. "See even you cannot answer my question when I ask one. I ..."
McGonagall suddenly cut him off saying, "Poppycock Harry! I think you need to listen to me first before you go off thinking that you believe you know what I am thinking." Her eyes had become a little beady, as she looked at him like a falcon ready to lash out at its prey. Harry knew she was more then just a little displeased with him.
"Harry, I will never need to be condescending toward you. You have earned this and it's time that you wake up and wear your victory proudly young man. You may not of always done everything right, had courage every time that you needed it, or ever had a plan that worked exactly like you thought it would. However, you did it, young man. You succeeded and you have shown by your actions that you are a gracious wizard. Iin my book, you deserve this accolades more then anyone else. You may of had help but only you in the end could stop this long struggle. You did it just as it was said that you would. I don't want to hear any more excuses or any other reasons from you. If you are going to be on my staff at Hogwarts ,young man, then I expect you to accept and behave as the wizard that you truly are. Do we have a understanding here or have I made a mistake in offering this position to you, Professor."
Harry was shocked on how she had just talked to him. He had been dewelling in his own misery until she ended the tongue lashing with Professor. Then it suddenly registered to him that she was right. As he stared at her, he thought he saw a little smile in the corners of the frown that she was doing her best to hide.
Harry then smiled back at her and then the Headmistress joined him with her own.
He then said to her, "I guess I needed that little talk, didn't I?"
"Well Potter, sometimes a student can be quite in need of a good taking to, but in your case, I almost was ready to try using a log to knock some sense into your hard head."
He chuckled and smiled back as he told her, "It's never going to go away is it?"
"Not for a long while Harry, but it will slowly ebb and in time you won't be so noticed that much anymore. Now, what is your schedule looking like so we can talk on your future at Hogwarts?"
Harry then continued, "After tomorrow, the rest of the week is going to be a lot easier until I get to Friday, Professor. I am worried on what both Ginny and I may learn about where our future lives are being led. But that is not all that I am afraid of right now."
McGonagall looked at Harry and knew that something was on his mind. "Yes, Potter go on?"
"I think what I am mostly scared of is that nobody really knows on where our lives are going right now. The worst thing is, I know that the Ministry is afraid of what I may be. I don't think they have any idea where my life is leading me to right now."
"Just remember Harry, you have made your life what it is. I remember when you first came to school and seeing you on the stairway with Draco trying to become a friend to you. You already knew that he was not what you wanted in a friendship. He had money and power but you wanted neither from a person like him. You have made yourself on your own choices in your life and you have chosen well.
"That first night at school, you were a very naive wizard in our world and now look at you Harry Potter. Except for you getting use to being the hero right now, you are a very confident young wizard. Even though you still have many questions about yourself, you have shown that you have always come to the right answer in the end. I think in the next twenty-five years, your impact in the Ministry will be substantial. I have hopes on where your destiny will lead you, but I am not Professor Trelawney. So for now you will have to wait to ask me in twenty years or so if I was right. Now Harry, I have one more question for you. Have you given my request a thought?"
"Yes I have and I not sure you will be happy with my decision. I have thought long and hard about this and I have also talked with Ginny. I don't think I'm ready to be a full time student that is also a teacher. Personally, I feel it would be inappropriate for me to even take this job. I would like to be a student teacher that may help to teach these classes, but I think it would be wise to have a teacher in charge of me. I am still young and could make some mistakes without someone else being around to guide me, Professor."
For a moment, McGonagall looked shocked. She then looked at Harry, smiled and said, "Harry, you have given me the most enlightened answer that I could have ever expected from you. I am not at all upset, but truely delighted in how you have come to your conclusions in this matter. This wasn't a test and you would have been given the full time position if you had wanted it. We all truly thought that you could do this, but I think we all privately had hoped that this would be how you would answer. In time, you will be a great teacher with your leadership. Your answer has just confirm it for me.
"So it makes me feel good to be able to say congratulations Professor. Now it seems that I've got to find you an adviser for next term. Unless I find someone who I feel would be perfect for you to work under, I will try to find a number of choices. Then with your help in the selection Harry, maybe this position will finally be placed for more then a year." She then reached out and gave Harry a hug, saying. "I will see you tomorrow morning."
Harry saw that Ginny, Ron, and Hermione were talking to Seamus, Dean, Neville, Michael, Luna, along with seven other members of the DA. Everyone but Luna had ended up sitting together with them in the DA section.
As he looked at two of Ginny's old boy friends, he could feel a small but distant urge to curse them. He knew there was really no reason to have this type of attitude toward them but he felt it was just a feeling of possessiveness by all the longing he had for her this past year. He knew it was wrong of course but he had realized that it was also a normal part of him. Now that she had given him a feeling of contentment, it would be much easier to bury until they made their bonded relationship known publicly.
When he came up to Dean and Michael, they both were happy to congratulate him on someone finally getting the best young lady that Hogwarts had ever offered. He knew they really meant it as they both wished him the best. Harry thanked them both and for the next half hour they all talked about anything, and everything. The one most popular thought was that everbody agreed that it was finally over. When it was determined that only two of the members, would not make it to Fred's funeral the next day, Harry suggested they all try to get together for a private celebration. Quickly, it was agreed upon and then Ron volunteered the Burrow for a location.
Auror Hobbs soon appeared and asked, "Harry are you and your party about ready to leave? They are waiting for all of you to depart so they can close up the grave. They normally wait to do this until after everyone from the funeral has left."
"I'm sorry Auror Hobbs," replied Harry," we are almost ready. We were just finishing saying our goodbyes."
Hobbs then added, "Also, we are to return you by five o'clock if possible or we need to call in that we're running late."
Everyone gave their departing words and then the four of them were escorted by their Aurors to the limousine. As they headed down the open road, Ron said, "it's not quite like flying but it sure beats sitting on a broomstick for a long trip." Everyone laughed and Harry and Ginny just laid back and enjoyed holding hands together the rest of the drive back to the rental agency.
After they returned the car, Hobbs told them. "Just say Ministry and you will end up in the main atrium. Take the floo to the right of you and then just move your ID badge over the powder jar and this will now let you floo directly to the Burrow. Do you all understand that?"
Everyone nodded yes to him and them one at a time they disappeared in a flash.
In short order they all arrived at the Ministry. The rush hour had begun, and it seemed the entire Ministry was all wanting to leave. After the initial confusion the Aurors took over, and soon the three of them were walking out of the fireplace at the Burrow.
Molly was setting at the table when Ginny appeared in the floo. Before she had even taken several steps, Molly was asking, "How did it go?"
Ginny in her excitement, started rapidly talking "Harry's Aunt and cousin were a lot nicer then I had expected. Then we stopped at an excellent Muggle restaurant to eat. It was the best steak that I ever had and it was actually a seafood eatery that served steak. One of the Aurors had grown up in the area and we were in this huge Muggle car with two back seats. Colin's funeral was very nice and it was a lot like a wizard's funeral except that no magic was done."
She had said it so fast that Hermione was just arriving behind her when she had finished. To Molly, it had sounded as one sentence. She laughed on her report of her first real trip in the Muggle outskirts of London. Molly knew that her daughter hadn't been away much from the magical word but knew with Harry that would quickly change. " Good then," she told her.
"Harry had just arrived and quickly, Molly asked, "So how did it go with you, Harry?"
"I am glad I went and visited my cousin and aunt. I feel like I was finally part of their family."
"See Harry, people can change if you give them a chance," replied Molly.
"Well I wasn't quite prepared for treatment this way. So what time is dinner tonight?"
"We are going to eat around seven o'clock Harry," Molly replied. "Is there anything wrong with that?"
"No Mrs. Weasley, I just was wondering. Ginny and I are going to get changed into something more comfortable. Then we were going to go talk about some more personal matters, if that would be alright?"
"Ahhh. Cough-plaah-ugn," Ron had just taken a big swig of pumpkin juice and it suddenly was sprayed all over the place when Harry had said personal."
Ginny recoiled with, "Ron, grow up young man. Hermione is there and waiting for you, so don't worry about me. Worry about taking care of the one that loves you." With that she ran up the stairs leaving a pink Hermione and Harry to leave quickly before their own faces would give away their own laughter.
Harry quickly ran into Ron's room and undressed and grabbed his shower stuff and put his shower robe on and quickly walked downstairs. He opened the door to the bathroom and froze as he started to walk in on Ginny was all but undressed. Her back was toward him and for a moment he froze unable to say anything. As he covered his eyes, he said, "Damn, I'm sorry Ginny, "I'm really sorry my love."
The next thing he heard was "Harry, you can open your eyes, I won't bite. I promise."
"I can't Ginny. I want too... but I can't."
"Open your eyes silly. I have my robe on now." She reached up and kissed him and he slowly opened his eyes… just to be sure that she wasn't fooling him. When he saw that she was presentable, he was able to breathed a lot easier."
"I...I...I'll just wait in the hall until you're done, Ginny."
"You know Harry, we could take a shower together to save water." Her face held a smile and for once Harry wasn't sure on what she had meant. He swallowed hard not knowing if she had really meant it. Then reality set it and he told her, "Ginny we both know that your brothers would bury me with Fred tomorrow if I did, so I will just go out and wait in the hall."
"Suit yourself mighty noble Harry Potter," she said in a taunting tone.
As he went out in the Hall and closed the door, Ginny broke out in a bout of laughter and having trouble breathing. She did her best to make sure that Harry didn't hear fit that she had just had. She knew that he hadn't deserve what she just did, but she had enjoied the look that he had gave her. His face was just beautiful. Oh Colin, I wish you could have been here with your camera, she thought to herself.
As Harry waited for Ginny to shower, he felt torn on what had just happened. Did she really mean it? Yes it would have been nice and everything but they were really just starting this relationship together. Beside this was her parent's home and he loved her and would do nothing to hurt her reputation. He honoured her with every breath that he breathed and he knew that she had felt the same about him.
Then he realized that she was just trying to make the situation less embarrassing for both of them. Well the whole reason he wanted to get together with her tonight was to begin to talk about things just like this. It would finally be a start to learn about each other in a closer way.
Ginny took less then ten minutes and when she opened the door, she told him, "you know if you had joined me Harry, we would have both been already done."
Harry grabbed her head and gave her a kiss and told her, "If we would have taken a shower together my love, I think we would have still been in there when your mother called us for dinner." His face was turning beet red as he smiled back to her own pink and smiling face.
Ginny looked at him, starting giggling, and replied in a reinforced but broken voice, "I am afraid your probably right Harry," and turned and ran into her room with the door quickly closing behind her. Then she froze in her steps for she wanted him so much to have just chased her and followed her into her room but she knew it wasn't proper.
Harry, in hearing her giggling, had wanted to follow her into her room but he knew that it would be wrong. He paused a moment in thought and then headed into the shower and quickly scrubbed away the sweat, dirt, and soot from today's ventures. When he was done he got out and dried himself off. As he looked up into the mirror, the thought of what his Aunt had said earlier today recurred in his mind. It was amusing he thought and knew she was right and that the both of them together did look like his parents in their wedding picture. He was just glad he had decided to visit and finally, he had some real blood relatives that treated him like family. He wondered what other interesting changes of events were possibly going to be happening this week.
Harry finished drying his hair and quickly headed back upstairs to Ron's room. It wasn't very long before he found himself dressed and was knocking on Ginny's bedroom door. The door slowly opened and Ginny's smiling face was looking at him and she asked him if he enjoyed the view.
He looked startled as she said that and lowered his eyes from her face. Ginny reached out and cupped his chin with hers hand and raise his face level with hers. "Harry," she said, "I love you and maybe I was fooling around with you too much. I know your honour would not have allowed you to do anything so drastic, but it all was in a spur of a moment decision by me. I just wanted to have some fun with you, but it seems you might have taken my joke in the wrong way.
"The opportunity presented itself to both of us to have some fun today and to get a good laugh. We both understand that we have our obligations to each other and our families." She now looked deep into his eyes and told him, "Harry, I just wish you were less serious with our relationship at times and take part in more games and in private, a little more frolicking would be fun." She had emphasized the last part of the sentence and waited for his answer.
Harry felt like he had a very large frog in his throat and just threw his lanky arms around her. A tight hug between them helpped to lose his embarrassed. He reached for her hand and then pulled until she new that he wanted her to follow him. As they both ran down the stairs, Ginny quickly said as she swept past by her Mum, "We'll be outside."
Harry kept leading her and Harry then pulled her into a run. Soon they had passed the trees that they had been under that morning. Harry continued into an area that had a few trees and a only scattering of flowers. When they finally came to a stop, they were both gasping for air and then she said between breaths, "well Harry… is that your way… of replying… to my suggestion?"
Harry then gently pushed her down to the ground. As he sat down on the ground, he pulled her over to him and put her head on his lap and then with a loving face told her. "Ginny, I'm sorry because I never realized that you would want to joke over matters like this. Your comments caught me off guard earlier and I am sorry that I didn't realize quicker that you were only playing around."
"Oh Harry, it's nothing like that! We both still have a crush of sorts on each other and we've both already known each other for practically half our lives. We enjoy each others company now, but we haven't really figured out some of the finer details about each other. I not sure that either of us really know who each of us really are. I have always cared so much about you, and I was so reserved and awkward around you. Honestly, your finally seeing who I really am. I'm trying to be me around you. I'm just like you though, I not sure how the others is going to react.;
"We just need to do what we feel is right together and just forget everything else Harry. I am being me now… and I know that you want to be you, but you're caught between everything. I know what you really are for I have watched you for so long... Honestly, Ron and especially Hermione, have kept me informed about you throughout the years. I know you enough that you want to play in a good way, and we both know where the line is for now."
Harry looked and her and coughed a laugh and then smiled.
"Just be yourself like when you're with my brother and Hermione. I've watched you a lot in the common room over the years and maybe that was wrong of me, but I wanted to know you so badly.
"Let us talk about our dreams and what we want for the future. What our pet peeves are and what makes us feel special. Overall I know far more about you, than you do about me, but together my love, we will figure each other out, and finally know what makes each of us tick.
"And finally Harry, let me say this and then it is your turn. We have both been so cautious about some things in our past but now we both know we are meant for each other. The prophecies have said we're going to be together, so rather we like it or not, it time to open up to each other, for it appears to me, we can't even mess this up if we try to." She smiled at him as she finished saying this and then waited for him to reply.
Harry started to speak and then he stopped because he just couldn't find the right words, so he just stared into her eyes and nodded. He slowly started running his hands through her hair and she knew that he was thinking to himself on how to start his own side of this personal conversation. Ginny could also tell in the wetness of his eyes, that Harry wanted to talk but was just too unsure how to start this new way of opening up to each other.
Ginny knew that this was just going to take some time and then Harry would talk and probably talk as much as she did at times. She knew he was a good wizard and was just still trying to find himself around her.
He was still recovering from finishing the war that he had to fight since he was born. She knew now that testing the waters around each of them was now over and hoped that he would realized how close they really were to each other. This would let him finally open up quickly, and know what to say, and then their lifes would start to become one path together forever.
Even though the conversation had been a little one sided, Ginny decided to go ahead and start to tell him some of her own deep secrets and then started to speak, " Harry I want to tell…" Harry put his hand down and over her mouth to stop her.
He smiled at her and then told her, "My turn, please... First I want to say that you are so wonderful Ginny. You have true spirit and are not generally afraid to say what you believe in and will speak up when you feel you must. I can understand why and when you're around me that you're a little afraid because of what we have meant to each other for so long.
"I respect all of these things in you, but you have almost always let me do the talking, and seeing you're so forward, and honest toward me has caught me by surprise. I love you like this, and the more we're together the more open and unafraid around me you are becoming. I only have one big regret to tell you. That is three years ago, that I did not ask you to the Yule ball before Neville did."
Ginny smiled when he said this and then told him, "I guess Harry it was always meant for us to have some serious relationships with others before we were able to get together."
Harry nodded and then told her, "I think Cho and my relationship was meant to happen and be short lived to prepare me to be in a future serious relationship, and I know for sure that you are the one. As I told you this morning, I bring with me money and prestige and hope you are really to be able to handle all this and all the obligations that will come with being the wife of Harry Potter in our future.
"But with all the nice things in life Ginny, I also bring with me many risks that could affect you, and if we have children some day, could also play a deadly situation in our family's lives. It now appears that both of us, are going to share in a fate that at least for now, we have no idea of what it will lead us to and it may result in either or both of our deaths. We now must begin to share information that may make us so uncomfortable about who we both are."
Ginny nodded to him as she was listening intently to what he was saying.
"Ginny, as we are going to become partners in our lives, we will need to share most if not everything together. I still feel that Ron and Hermione are going to be players along side us in our new path that is in front of us. And sometimes our relationships have been rough, but in the end, we have always been there for each other."
Harry stopped and Ginny figured it was for her to ask him any questions she might have and so she asked one. "Harry it is strange to be told in advance about what our lives will be heading toward. Do you think these prophecies are really going to come true for us?"
"Ginny I think you have to understand about you and me and how these prophecies are meant for us. We have always, it now seems, to have been tied together, and all of what has happen to us, has happened for a reason. We are attached to these in a way, that unless we just kill ourselves, then our destinies have already been prearranged ,and one way or the other, we are going to follow the pathway that has been prepared for us. We really have no choice in this, but do have the choice in how we carry them out.
"If this one prophecy is as old as they say that it is, then we have become players in a very old game and just as a team does, we must depend on the support we will get from others.
Look at it like a chess game. I figure I am the king, who makes you become my queen and you are the most powerful piece on the board. Do not forget this Ginny. For if we become separated in time, or maybe I will be almost dead, it may be you in the end, that can change the direction and save me, or be the one that can checkmate and end the game."
Ginny had started looking at him in a face that showed she was wondering just where all of this was going. She knew what he was saying was probably true, but just why was he saying it now and then she realized that he really was trying to warn her of all the baggage that he was bringing with him.
She new that he wanted her to acknowledge to him that she knew this path, was a mighty big order to accept in her life, and he just wanted her to understand what she really was in for.
"Harry I want to ask you something about today. When you came over and I was with Michael and Dean, did that upset you at all?"
Harry thought for a moment and then told her, "When I walked over, I could feel a little uneasiness in my feelings about you and them being together with you, but I got over it quickly and knew that you were just being friendly with them. I am not at all upset now and you are welcome to talk to whomever you wish."
Ginny reached up and started to slide her fingers through Harry's hair and asked, "Harry do you think we are going to live through all of this?"
"I really do not know Ginny. Life has become a very strange relationship for us and with what has been foretold about us. Whatever the prophecies leave open to conjecture means that many unmarked paths are open for travel. These paths will always lead us back to the final part of the prophecies, but we may wander for a while until the end catches up with us."
"What you just said is really strange but I think I followed that statement," replied Ginny and she gave him a funny smile.
"Harry I going to ask you the first real digging question to you. Since it is obvious that we must get married and no time is said about when in the prophecies, then why can't we just go ahead and get married now Harry?"
Harry looked at her calmly which really surprise her and said. "I guess it is time for me to finally open up to you and stop dodging this question you need to have answered my love. I know my indifference on this is making you wonder why I just don't asked you. I know it is really been causing you some stress, and yes since we both now know it will happen.
"First we must at least know and understand each other in a way, that a couple must do, before they would every consider to be married to each other. We now appear to be starting down the path of discovery and in the next few weeks, that we are together; I feel that many of the unanswered questions will be brought forth from each of us to each other. We also have some questions to be answered by others and by next week we will have them. Now is that a good start?"
Ginny looked at him and said, "I hope there is more then just that Harry."
Harry continued, "I have lots more to say Ginny and this is some of what I think you want to hear."
"First we both need our schooling and we can't be married and be attending Hogwarts as students and I will not ask to have them wave the policy for us. For me I think they would make a exception but it is not right for us to do this! Can you agree on this Ginny?"
Ginny with a sad but understanding face took Harry's head in her hands and said to him in a slightly sad tone, "Yes Harry I agree," and she sadly smiled at him.
Harry continued, "Secondly, I feel obligated to your family not to ask for your hand in marriage until your seventeen. Can you please live with that my love?"
"Harry, if I don't want to do that and I talk to my parents for permission for you to ask me before I am seventeen and they agree would you ask me then?"
"Ginny if this is that important for you to just wear a ring, I am willing to do this but shouldn't this be really for me to be comfortable and feel in my heart that I am doing the right thing at the right time?"
This question and statement caught Ginny off-guard and she knew that really she was pressing him on an issue that more served her own interest then the real reason for them to get married in the first place. She realized that Harry would asked her if she push him on it but it really would not be from his heart yet. She finally understood that he was telling her that he just wanted the important questions answered that he had. He also felt that proper timing was also very important and then he was more than ready to asked her.
"Harry I understand and yes, I agree, but just remember, I am also tied up into these prophecies and I am a Weasley witch, which is probably causing my whole mental problems in all this. I don't mean to repeat it again but you know what will help me, so please get it as soon as you can."
Harry smiled and told her, "That may not help much Ginny but who knows, maybe it will. Lets get up for a second to stretch." The two of them helped each other up and when they were standing, a flower caught his attention and then he asked her, "Ginny just stand there and please do not open your eyes." She looked at him with a look of inquisitiveness and Harry said, "Trust me Ginny and don't open them until I say so."
As she closed them, he walked over and as he looked down about a dozen beautiful flowers were just there. He needed no wand or anything else and knew that maybe fate was going to be playing more of a roll in this, then he had been expecting at this moment. He broke them off and gathered them together and added a few other things that were in the grass that he had no idea of what they were called. As he looked at the bouquet, he stared in amazement, for it was just perfect, and he knew that the flowers must have been here for a reason.
He walked back over to Ginny and put the flowers behind his back and then told her, "I'm sorry I took so long, my bladder was just full." When he said that she opened her eyes and said you could have told me to just turn around Harry."
He smiled and said nothing and then got down on one knee and said. "Ginny I love you with all my heart and wish I could propose to you today but I can't for all of those reasons." He brought the flowers out from behind his back and then told her, "Ginny for now this is a token of my love to you." As Ginny reached out and took the flowers from Harry, he reached for her free hand and enveloped it with both his hands. As he looked into her eyes he continued and told her, "There is no magic within them and I promise that before they wilt, I will bless you with a token of my love for you to wear. This will show that you and I have promised to each other, that soon I will ask you to marry me. Do you, Ginevra Molly Weasley, accept my wish?"
It wasn't a proposal, but Ginny, who had not expected this in her wildest dream, knew that this was close and from his heart. She had no idea that he would do this today, but she also did not expect the rush of whatever she felt in her body just then. The flowers somehow appeared to be the most beautiful she had ever seen, and her heart was pumping blood like there was no tomorrow.
But with what little had shown on the outside of their bodies, something magically had just taken place within both of them. At first when Harry touched her hands, he felt a shiver go up his arms and then his spine and then finally some light headiness that shortly went away. Ginny knew that the commitment that she had needed from Harry since he had returned had just been given to her, and the result was something that Harry was totally unprepared for.
Ginny had put a smile on her face, but the radiant beauty that stood before him, was now seared to his soul and in a way that he would never look at another women like he just did. She had just gone from being quite attractive to him to being perfect to him in every way, and he reached out without a sound, and then enveloped her into a hug.
The contact was like no other that had been ever felt to both of them and if anyone had been around the pearly glow was quite apparent, and even in the sunlight. The time past slowly by, and little by little, the glow began to ebb, until it was gone at sunset. Neither knew for sure on just what had just happened, but some very old and ancient magic had just connected to their souls. This would finally give peace to Ginny's mind, and they could now have a happy pre-engagement, that had just begun as Harry promised.
Molly was in the kitchen when she felt something that made her stop what she was doing. She knew that something had just happened to her daughter. All she knew for sure was it was not bad, whatever it was. She thought at first that maybe her two little ones in deep love had maybe fallen to the power of lust. But she knew in her heart that there was more to this feeling then this and something quite amazing must have just happened to these two for even her to feel like this.
Later that evening, Arthur and Ron were getting a little annoyed when the two of them did not show up for dinner and then Arthur said, "Molly I think it would be best that I go find them to see if everything is okay."
Molly with a smile quickly replied, "Arthur I know something quite amazing has happened to them a few hours ago, and I think it is best that they are just left alone for now." Arthur looked at Molly with a questionable look in his face but she just nodded at him, and that told him, it was best not to disturb them.
Ron being Ron then broke in, "Mum they should be home, maybe some Death Eater found them or something and if Harry did something he shouldn't have, I going make sure he…"
"Ronald Weasley! Your sister is fine and something just wonderful has happened between them today, and maybe its time you should look at someone next to you and think about how much you love her, and finally do something about it."
Hermione turned to look at Ron and he quickly just looked down at his plate and started eating and never said anything else during dinner. Hermione just smiled at Molly and Arthur and knew that maybe he was possible waking up, and might finally be doing something about his feelings toward her. She knew with school coming, marriage would be another year or so but she was hoping she would at least be engaged by fall term.
For Vernon Dursley, the first few weeks of the Order of the Phoenix providing protection were the worst in his life. But as the weeks slowly grew into months, Hestia and the others that were providing protection, began to slowly befriend him and slowly he realized that Harry's people were mostly just like normal people. They had quickly got him a phone line and a computer when he asked for one, and in short order, he was able to do his company work from this secure location that he was being hid at.
He was spending so much time doing work, that soon, even with not coming into work, he was the companies largest salesmen, and people at the top begin to take notice about this. Even Vernon was surprised he was still able to take care of his accounts, and soon it came to his companies owner's attention, that he was a very proficient manager. Soon when it was found that the Director of Sales, had been receiving kickbacks from governmental contracts, Vernon's name was right at the top of the replacement list.
When a message was sent to him about a possible promotion for him, he knew that he would not be able to accept it at this time and for a couple of days, he was sadden, and wished his nephew might hurry up, and finish his task he needed to do.
Just two days before Vernon had to give his final answer to the owners, that he would be unable to take the new job, then by some remarkable stroke of luck, Harry's defeat of Voldemort occurred. That Monday morning, he was able to inform them, that by good fortune, the government had finally apprehended the people that they were hiding him from. He was now able to come out of hiding and he would be happy to take on this new opportunity for the company.
So when the Dursleys moved home that Monday, Vernon was quite happy that he was finally going to have a big raise, saw that his house looked like they had never left, and even he had to confide to Petunia that night ,that maybe someday, he would have to thank Harry for making this opportunity happen for them.
When he headed for work that following morning, he had no idea about what was going to happen at work that day, and told Petunia that he would probably not return home until late that evening. He did not know that, in addition to the kickbacks and with some failures with some military vehicles, he was suddenly going to be put in a position that would put the spotlight on him over the next few days.
A government probe had started finding, that many companies had been substituting inferior foreign products for highly specialized items, that did not meet ridged specifications. When his own company had found out about this probe, the ownership had thought that they had been on the up and up with everything, but after careful inspection of its own products, it found out that it too have been unknowingly involved with the outsourcing.
The owners contacted Scotland Yard and opened it files to the government on it own, and after a short but comprehensive investigation, they were found to be at no fault. A number of soon to be former employees, had been substituting substandard products, and then billing the company, and the government for the high grade products that both thought they were getting. This investigation had finished up that weekend, so when Vernon came to work that Tuesday morning, he had no idea about all of what had been going on in the prior weeks. This ended up becoming the best thing that could have ever of happened for him.
As Vernon drove to work that morning, he was thinking the next few days for him would be quite busy, for he had to show the government purchasing agents, that his company was a very honest supplier. They would delivery the best product for the best price, and he would personally make sure that all specifications were met with quality products. After nine months of being sequestered, he was ready to rally all the salesmen and thought that life couldn't be any better.
As Vernon walked into work that morning and looked around, everything seem normal and many of the office staff was welcoming him back to work. As he went to his old office, he noticed that all his file drawers were empty and most of his longterm records were missing. When he came out to his secretary of ten years, she told him that she had been ordered to not talk to anyone about it, which even included him.
When he demanded that she tell him what was going on, she said that last week that the government had come in at night, and had studied most of the company records. She had been told by the owners to stay here that night and to point out everything that they needed to find. They had wanted all of his records and that she had heard rumours that their own company had been found supplying many faulty parts and that a number of employees where found to be in on this fraud.
Vernon knew that he had never done anything illegal and wondered if this job offer was just a ruse to get him to report to work to arrest him. He wasn't planning to be a fall guy for anyone but felt leaving would just make him look guilty. So he then decided that he would just sit in his office until someone brought him some work or he was requested by someone. He called home to talked to Petunia and she told him that Harry was going to be visiting that morning and he just went quiet as he thought what to say. Suddenly before he could answer, he heard a knock at his door and he told her he would see her later tonight.
He said told whoever was at the door to come on in and the majority owner of the company walked in, along with the chairman and three men he had never seen before. They were introduced and he was told that they were from Scotland Yard and the Defence Ministry and that is when Vernon was starting to feel like he was not going to have a good day. Tom Jewels from Scotland Yard then asked him, "have you every substituted any parts, fastens, or tools that you know, did not meet specifications from your government contracts?"
Vernon then replied, "I have never done anything knowingly illegal and I know of no one in this company to have done this and I have no knowledge that any of this was going on in his company until this morning when I got here."
A stack of documents were laid down on his desk and he looked at them and then asked them, "So what is all this about?"
"These are all contracts with your signature Vernon and we have determined that all of these items have been supplied with substandard parts and you have signed off the inspections," said Peter Juckins, the owner.
He looked directly at him and told him, "I have never tried to knowingly swindle anybody. I have always tried to supply the parts requested to specifications sir!"
The man from Scotland Yard asked him, "Sir these documents show that you approved the sale of these items and that you authorized the purchase of this parts from foreign suppliers without being checked by your own inspection department."
Vernon lay back in his chair and then told them, "Sir I have never approved of anything like this in my eighteen years of working here at this company. I have always insisted that products that I order, be inspected by us and I take this implication as an insult to my character. I feel at this time I have nothing else to say and would like to talk to my lawyer to see what recourse I may have toward you and this company, for it appears to me that I have been set up by someone."
When he said that the young officer closed and locked the door and John Hucks took Vernon's office phone and unplugged it and then everybody was looking at Vernon and then he saw that everyone was smiling at him.
Then Peter Juckins the President of the company spoke up and told him, "Vernon before you say anything else, I want you to listen to what is going to be said here to you. This information is considered to be of a very sensitive nature by the government, so none of it can leave this room. Do we have your attention on this matter?"
Vernon looked at his bose and said, "Yes Sir. I would like to know what is going on here."
"A very large group of peoples from a number of major companies, which is including ours, have been swindling the government for a number of years. We think that about six people were involved here with this scam and now as we speak, they are all being arrested along with their cohorts at seven other government suppliers. It seems that every domestic company that supplied products like ours, had people working on the inside, and were also laying a trail of false documentation to point the fingers to innocent people like yourself.
"All of these documents on your desk show that you were the main person responsible for this fraud, but the funny thing is, that none of your fingerprints show up on any of these documents. Also the government says that much of the paper does not match the paper you have always been using in the past. Since you sent many in the last year by post in a regular envelope, there is no crease to show it had been folded. Officer Hucks has a list of names and would like to talk to you if you think anyone else could be responsible in our company, and who might be innocent of these allegations".
Vernon was shocked at what he was just told and then for the next thirty minutes, he talked about everything he could think about on the people on the list, and some that were not on the list. When he was done, the two members of Scotland Yard and the Defence Ministry left, but Peter Juckins and Simon Moore stayed in order to talk to Vernon. Peter put out his hand to Vernon and they shook and then he then told him.
"Vernon fifteen years ago, I remember my father telling me that you were old fashion and somewhat prejudged people and that was a liability that would keep you from ever getting to the top. He hoped in time, maybe you would soften and become a valuable asset to this company. I know you have pretty much stayed set in your ways, but it appears that you do have a good sense of loyal and astute business practices, and we want you to stay in the company.
"I would also like to tell you, that you have also received a letter of recommendation from the people who have guarded you the last ten months, and that you are an honest person in their eyes. They also have told Scotland Yard that they could not feel that the allegations brought forth about you, would apply to you. The government for some reason, and we are not sure why, has also seemed to feel that you would be the best person in the company to review all governmental purchases from now on. To be honest with you, we felt we were told this as a firm request then more as a suggustion about keeping you. We think that someone really wants you to be doing this for the Ministry.
"With this entire situation happening here in our company, I also just want to tell you one last piece of advice to you that I hope you take as a warranted piece of advice and needed criticism. Please be more open and understanding with all types of people around you, and you will probably replace me when I retire.
"We were going to ask you to be the Director of Sales, but due to everything that has happened, we feel that you would be suited better in a different position of management. Simon and I both feel you would best be working under me as my new Vice-President of Sales, Production, and Procurement."
The job that Vernon could have wish for in a most unattainable dream had just been offered to him and for a moment he couldn't find the voice to give them an answer.
"Vernon what do you say?" Asked Peter.
He nodded his head and then stood up to shake the both of their hands and told them, "Thank you so very much for this and I never would have expected this."
"Vernon you must have some friends in high places in the Ministry. We have been told that they thought that you would be a person the government would be able to trust for us. When I asked them to be a little more forthcoming on why they suggested you they just told us they had actually watched you quite closely this past year and felt that you were an honest and would do this job for them. They told us that you have only one real hang up and that is why I said that to you. It is thought that you could get over your prejudice ways if you really wanted to and they thought that you could if you tried. They told us you would know what we were talking about and would understand what and who you needed to respond favourable to.
"He looked at them and knew that he had to be very cautious on how he answered them and told them, "I have known some people that I have considered very strange over the years but the longer that I was with them, I started to appreciate them while they were protecting my family. I will work on improving on your suggestions. For now that is all I can tell both of you because of the security issues about why we were in hiding."
Peter and Simon looked at him and then at each other and then Peter told him, "Vernon we understand and someday we would like to hear your story. You can have your pick of two secretaries and two additional staff as you see fit. Your office will be the one across the hall and to the right of mine. You can call maintenance to bring anything that you might want from this office. The only thing on your agenda this week is a meeting with the Defence Minister on Thursday to work out new rules of procurement for the Army and Air Force. I will be taking lunch today around twelve thirty and you can join me in the executive dining area."
When they left Vernon just set down for a few minutes to think about what had just happened this morning and he knew that he had finally achieved everything he had ever wanted in business unexpectedly. He knew he had worked hard for this day but also knew that all fingers somehow pointed to his nephew for the real reason he had gotten this job.
In back of his mind, he knew that he had actually started to like and appreciate the ones that had lived with them to protect them from harm. At first he hated them being there, but as the months rolled along, he knew that it was slowly become an act for him. As much as he still wanted to show that he didn't care for their lot, he knew that they had figured him out. He also knew that Petunia and Dudley had earlier accepted them as well.
He had to think for a while about this new change of events in his life and he knew he couldn't resolve this by himself at this time. But he finally knew and understood the real truth about Harry, because all the strange magical folk had told him the entire store. The nephew he never wanted, had in reality, become a National hero. The same boy that had caused him so much distress over the years, had just given him everything he had ever wanted. As Vernon set at his desk and pondered his past, he new he had made a mistake.
That evening, he headed home around eight o'clock. He still couldn't believe his good fortune and he had already talked to Petunia and she told him she would have his dinner ready when he got home. He had decided to wait until he got him and then break out the sherry and then tell her about his new job.
When he first got home, he had caught her off guard, when he asked he about how it went with Harry today. She told him that he would probably be married by next summer and that she and Dudley were planning to go to the wedding. She told him that she appeared to be a very nice girl that looked a lot like her sister. All Vernon could think was he really needed to somehow thank his nephew, because he knew it who be haunting him until he did.
It was around eight-thirty that evening when Ginny and Harry walk into the Burrow and as soon as Molly saw Ginny's face she knew that some type of connecting between them had taken place today. They both smiled at her, but the only thing said to her was as Ginny handed her the flowers and asked, "Mum could you put them in water please?" When Harry didn't say anything, Molly thought that possibly Harry had now come under the spell of the Weasley Witch. This would now be defiantly uncharted waters for these two teenagers that were still children in her eyes and hoped their futures that were coming would make up for their past.
Harry and Ginny slowly walked into the parlour and set down and just held hands together. No talking was heard by anyone. A few minutes later Arthur came over to Molly and asked her, "do you have any idea of what has happen to them dear?"
"Arthur this is going to be a shock for you and even the Ministry I feel."
"Molly… they didn't did they?"
Molly told Arthur, "Of course not dear, for they respect us both too much to do that. But I fear they have already magically connected by someway and how who knows? And Arthur by the way things are appearing, I don't think they both have any idea on what has really has happened to them tonight."
"Molly how is this possible?"
"Arthur this is your own daughter and you know how astonishing her power could be by the folklore in your family. We have always thought she would be a powerful witch with her heritage. Watching her grow up along with her brothers, she has shown special abilities and has proved to all her brothers, that she can be quite a handful and they respect her for who she is.
And now dear besides all that, we need to add the Chosen One to the mix. With what Kingsley just told us last night, Harry's own powers may appear normal but something is probably hidden about him for now and that could be power that is past the normalcy of any wizard. Putting all this together… is something that nobody can even guess what the result will be."
Around ten o'clock that night, Arthur came in to the kitchen and asked Molly, "What do you think we should do about them tonight dear?"
"Arthur let's get them a couple of blankets and let them just sleep in there. I think it is best that we do not separate them tonight."
Arthur walked up to Molly and gave her a hug and said, "Well it took our little Ginny ten years, but she said she would marry him Molly and it appears she is on the final leg of the path to do that now." Arthur went upstairs to get some extra blankets and pillows and Molly just quietly stared at the two in love. They were just lying there with their heads together and eyes closed and she felt she knew what they were doing.
Arthur went up to Ron's room and paused at his door. He could hear Ron and Hermione talking and then knock on the door. When he opened the door, he told them, "Molly has decided that something very special has happened between Harry and Ginny tonight, and we feel it is best that they just stay and sleep in the parlour, so please leave them alone." Arthur then returned downstairs a couple of minutes later, and he and Molly spread the blankets over and around them, and when they were done they headed to their own room. As Arthur closed the door to their room he asked her, "Molly pray tell me on what you think is going on with them tonight?"
"Arthur it is obvious to me that they have now bonded and are in each other's minds somehow tonight. I feel they are finally able to tell each what they have been wanting to, dear. They have a lot to talk about last year and the way their relationship has been, and maybe finally, they are getting caught up with each other. They will be okay and I am sure later tonight they will eat dinner. But tonight is probably very important for them, so we will let them be."
Arthur nodded and soon they both went on to bed hoping that Harry and Ginny's future were now in good hands.
Although it appeared on the outside that Ginny and Harry were just out of it, they were in a deep conversation and sharing much about themselves to each other. Whatever had happen, had now opened a direct connection between them and each was trying to tell each other about what they wanted in life. A few things were still private and they were both careful to hold them away from each other, as each was being careful to not pry. But over several hours, much that would have been spoken in weeks was told, given, and now understood between each other. When they finally fell asleep a little past midnight, they were both so contented with each other, because they both knew that they had found the one they wanted for eternity.
Sometime around two o'clock that morning, they both awaken, and in needing to satisfy their hunger, they both headed toward the kitchen. In a short amount of time that even amazed Harry, Ginny had fixed them dinner and when they were eating, Harry told her. "You know Ginny, we should have taken you along with us for cooking. Your dinner is sure better then what we had with Hermione's fixings. But to be fair with her, most of the time we only had one or two items on the menu and some were in pretty bad condition when we got them. So I guess I am not giving her credit where it's due."
Ginny knew what he had really meant but looked at him and then told him, "So you are saying I'm only needed for my cooking ability?"
He looked at her and knew that she had out foxed him and wasn't sure what to say to her, "Um," was all that came out of his mouth.
Shortly they both were laughing and then Ginny told him, "well you might want to do something to keep reminding me Harry not to tell her what you just said."
He looked at her and cocked his head sideways and asked, "blackmail and bribery dear?"
"Yup! and both if you really want to know. And as much as I can get until you ask me."
"Boy after I told you almost everything I could think of," replied Harry.
"Well after hearing your real life story Harry, I really don't have much to use to get you to do something, compared to what you now have against me. I feel bribery on this one item may be the best and only safe course of action here and save what little else I have for a later time."
As they both tried to hold out longer then the other, Harry decided it was best to let her have her way. Once Ginny realized that Harry had let her win, she also gave up and for a long while, they were laughing an excessive amount until each other's sides hurt too much to laugh anymore.
When they finally finished up eating Harry told her, "Ginny, I assume what we were doing is okay with your parents tonight. I would like to wake up with you at my side this morning if it is okay with you?"
"Harry why do you even ask? You know how I feel about this. Let clean up and go back to sleep love." They cleaned up the kitchen and then they went upstairs to clean themselves up and changed into their sleeping attire. Soon they were back downstairs and as they snuggled together it felt just right to them and each of them slept soundly tell morning.
NEXT CHAPTER: 'Meeting Teddy'
8/29/2009 WBW FB 'Pottercomplete'
Beta work and 1st review was done by 'the-irish-redhead'
Beta work and 2nd review done by 'ginnyweasley777'
I hope everyone reading this story appreciates the help that the above Betas have contributed toward this story. I know I do.