Chapter 21
Dear Hermione,
Thanks again for following up with me on another memory. I'll be frank, I have no excuses for that night. I did just about everything wrong that I could've - I'm seeing a pattern here. Most I can offer is what happened after. As always, if you have any questions about it, just let me know.
I'm happy to hear that you're learning more about Hogwarts and the war. It takes time to get through that many years of memories, no need to put extra pressure on yourself. And that's absolutely amazing that you're so far ahead in your studies. You really should go check out Hogwarts - the new Potions master isn't as good as Snape was, but it'd still be good to have all of the supplies on hand and the help if you need it. As for Herbology, you should make sure Neville's there to help you along. He was in Gryffindor with us and he's such a pro at Herbology. You should try and schedule your visit in conjunction with a quidditch match! Okay, maybe that's just what I would do - never mind.
It's good to hear from you...I'm sorry that things went the way they did last time. You don't need to apologize for anything. You had every right to be upset - you're dealing with a lot and we have a lot of history, and unfortunately not all of it is sunshine and rainbows. You were right though, we had to foray into the negative situations eventually anyway.
Hope you're doing well. Don't be too hard on yourself! You're doing great - doing Gryffindor proud all over again!
Best,
Ginny
Hermione folded up the letter and set it aside. After her talk with Luna and belatedly realizing that she'd been too hard on Ginny and had ignored her enough, she sent the other witch a letter offering up a truce. She'd told herself it was necessary, but if she was being honest with herself, she actually even missed talking with Ginny.
She held up the newest vial briefly before walking over to the Pensieve and spilling the substance inside. With a quick breath, she dipped her head into the waters.
Ginny entered the flat and came upon the sight of Hermione curled up on the corner of the couch with an open book in her lap.
"Hi Hermione," Ginny greeted her with a smile that went unseen as the brunette refused to look up from her book. Ginny stood there for a moment, watching the brunette a little helplessly until inaudibly sighing and setting her bags down. "How was your day?"
Again, Ginny waited and didn't receive a response. The only sound in the flat was the flip of a page.
"What are you reading?" Ginny tried again and made the mistake of taking a step towards the brunette. Though Hermione didn't reply or look up, she shifted her position and burrowed herself further into the corner of the couch as Ginny approached. A defeated sigh left the younger witch's mouth and she stopped in the middle of the room.
"Guess you're still mad at me," Ginny mumbled quietly as she retreated to the kitchen. She glanced over her shoulder to seek a response from the brunette, but saw that Hermione was still determinedly engrossed in her book.
"I brought home one of those little cakes that you like from the cart in the Atrium - they haven't had them in a while," Ginny called into the living room as she prepared to conjure up a meal. "Have you eaten yet?"
Finally, a small noise escaped Hermione in the form of an irritated sigh.
"You know I can't eat too many of those cakes, Ginny," she admonished without looking up from her book. "They're bad for your teeth and they're not healthy."
"But you haven't had too many," Ginny disputed lightly.
"I just had a slice the other day, actually," Hermione said with an edge. She hesitated, but eventually lifted her head to look at Ginny for the first time that evening. "You would probably know if you were at my birthday for more than 10 minutes."
Ginny sighed heavily and hung her head. A few beats passed as she worked to maintain her composure and walked back into the living room, though leaning against the far wall. "Hermione, I don't know how many times I have to apologize. I'm very, very sorry that I wasn't there on time and that I didn't have more involvement. I made a mistake - okay, several."
"You can apologize all you want, Ginny. Doesn't change the fact that, yet again, you couldn't be bothered when it came to me and that I don't believe you when you say that it won't happen again," Hermione replied with surprising indifference as she returned her attention to her book. "Ron and Harry were clear with you about when to be there and you chose not to be."
Ginny stared at Hermione for a second before walking over to the couch. Despite Hermione's brief look of annoyance, Ginny took a seat, though she made sure to put some space between the two of them.
"Well we have to move past this," Ginny said, earning her another dark look from Hermione. "You never cared about your birthday before."
"Don't tell me what we have and don't have to do," Hermione interjected. "And you're missing the point entirely - don't make excuses. And sure, I never really cared about my birthday before, but you never missed it before either. You were always the one who made it into this big celebration. Yes, I didn't ask for it or need it, but I did appreciate it and it made me feel like you really cared."
"I'm sorry," Ginny replied quietly as she glanced away.
"Ginny," Hermione started as she took in a quick breath and closed her book before turning slightly to face the younger witch, "When we were in Hogwarts, you encouraged me and supported me, you helped to me to believe in myself. Nobody else seemed to notice my uncertainty, but you did. When I was busy supporting others, you were supporting me. All throughout you made me confident. I always felt strong when I was with you and when I knew you were by my side. It's just a terrible shame and still hard for me to believe that all the confidence you helped to foster in me you are now taking away one disappointment at a time." Hermione's eyes betrayed her by showing unshed tears that contradicted the steady timber of her voice.
"Hermione," Ginny breathed, "I'm still that person. I always want to support and encourage you."
"How?" Hermione interjected. "By not being around?"
"That-"
"You made me feel special. You made me feel seen and appreciated like no one else did. Now...I just don't know, Ginny. Do you not care about me anymore? If there's something that you're struggling with that's pulling you away from me, please tell me, I want to help you," Hermione pleaded. Before Ginny could respond, Hermione's whole demeanour shifted instantly and she was so upset that the words got caught in her throat. She looked up at the ceiling, eyes still shining with unshed tears and she shook her head ruefully. "I can't believe I'm even saying the things I am. Unbelievable. Never mind. I've put too much weight on you; too many expectations. Why should you have any impact on my confidence or feelings in general?" Ginny was about to interject when Hermione let out a stunted laugh. "Honestly. I should've never given you the space to do that. I am responsible for my own well being, you should have nothing to do with it."
"Hermione, you have every reason to be confident and self-assured," Ginny expressed earnestly as she sought eye contact with the brunette.
Hermione ignored the redhead's declaration and merely open up her book once more to read. "Thank you for your input, Ginny."
"Mione," Ginny begged, "I really, really didn't think my actions would have this sort of negative effect on you and I can't apologize enough for my ignorance and inconsiderate behaviour. I never want to be the source of any negativity or upset in your life-"
Hermione cut off Ginny's word with a sharp laugh. "Thank you. That'll be enough for one night, Ginny. Let's not waste another evening rehashing things, shall we?"
"Mione, this is serious...can we talk about it?" Ginny insisted and Hermione glanced over wearily at her.
"I just want to read, Ginny, okay? Can you allow me this?" She said.
"Hermione...but-"
"But nothing, then. Have a good night," Hermione said icily as she stood. Ginny had more words on the tip of her tongue, but they went unspoken as Hermione turned on her heel and headed for the bedroom, closing the door firmly behind her.
A small sigh forced its way out of Ginny as she slouched in her spot on the couch, peering forlorn over the back of the couch at their bedroom door. After a few moments of wishful anticipation, Ginny eventually faced forward again and let her head drop back against the head of the couch and she stared absently at the ceiling. Another several moments passed before Ginny rose from the couch, fighting lethargy all the while. She took a few slow steps over to her bag and dug around in it until she retrieved an envelope with Hermione's name on it. She turned the envelope over in her fingers momentarily before quietly approaching the bedroom door. She raised a hand to knock on the door, but stopped mid-motion and dropped her hand dejectedly to her side. Without any further hesitation, Ginny crouched down and slipped the envelope underneath the door before returning to the living room.
The images before Hermione began to shift about in a series of swirls before settling and providing a clear picture once more.
Ginny woke with a jolt as she heard the bedroom door swing open followed by a few hurried steps.
"What's this?"
The redhead rubbed her eyes and squinted at the form before her as her eyes adjusted to the light. When her vision cleared she saw Hermione perched next to the couch looking down over her with the envelope clasped in her upheld hand.
"Uh, I was expecting a better reaction than this," Ginny rambled as she held her hand up as if Hermione was going to smack her over the head with the envelope. Hermione tutted impatiently and shook the envelope pointedly. Ginny groaned and peered over at the clock. "What time is it?"
"Late," Hermione replied tersely as she tried to catch Ginny's gaze once more. "I purposely didn't look at this for as long as I could - curiosity got the better of me eventually."
Ginny looked back at Hermione before dropping her gaze to the envelope. "Those are the reservations for our week in Spain." She waited a moment for any sign of a reply, but quickly explained. "If I had had my act together, I would've given you this on your birthday. I didn't have the confirmation yet, unfortunately. Anyway...I talked with Robbards and Mr. Whittner and arranged for us to take a week off. I hope you aren't mad that I went to Mr. Whittner behind your back - I wanted it to be a surprise though."
Ginny glanced up at Hermione again to see that the brunette was doggedly focused on the envelope and her lips were pursed in concentration. Ginny took the opportunity to speak again.
"I know I'm a screw up and I've disappointed you a lot," she started with a sigh, "but I'm a screw up who would like to take you to Spain like we talked about a couple of years back." She paused briefly before adding in a rush. "If you don't want to go with me, I'd understand, I can easily change the reservations so you can bring someone else. In any case, I'd like you to go - you've earned it."
Only then did Hermione swing the envelope down and it made solid contact with the younger witch's head.
"You're so thick sometimes," Hermione scolded as she stormed around to the other side of the couch and sat down.
"Ow," Ginny mumbled as she rubbed her head and waited for the brunette to finish her assault.
"Ginny...I don't even know what to say. This is all sorts of right and all sorts of wrong," she sighed. "First off, you can't just book a trip for us and expect that that's okay. Even if Mr. Whittner says it's fine, I still have a lot of things I need to handle and he doesn't micro-manage, he doesn't know the scale or volume of my tasks well enough to say if it's really appropriate for me to leave. Secondly, you can't just take a week away and expect that that'll fix things. There's a lot more here that's wrong than that. Thirdly, despite what you say, it does seem like interesting timing - I wonder if you just did this in an attempt to appease me over the birthday catastrophe."
"I understand," Ginny said with a slow nod, awaiting further explanation.
"Yet...it's sweet," Hermione relented as her shoulders slumped. A few moments of silence passed between them before the older witch spoke once again. "If I do choose to go with you, it won't actually change anything - not permanently anyway. It'll just be a brief vacation from reality," she expressed softly.
Ginny nodded slowly before speaking quietly. "I know."
Hermione sighed as she looked down at the envelope and pulled out the papers. She read them over before speaking. "I suppose we could use a vacation, though."
Ginny cracked a smile. "I think it'd be good for us." Another several beats passed before Ginny spoke again. "I'm sorry about everything, Hermione."
The brunette glanced up at her and sighed. "I know. We have a long way to go." A smirk crept across her features and she laughed shyly. "I'm sorry I set your flowers on fire."
A laugh bubbled up out of Ginny's throat and she smiled brightly at Hermione. "Don't apologize. I'm just glad you set them on fire and not me."
"I'm not that cruel," Hermione quipped.
"I know you're not," Ginny replied quietly before giving the brunette a sly grin. "But come on now, admit it, I kind of would've deserved it."
"No," Hermione insisted gently with a small shake of her head and a small smile that Ginny returned.
"I love you, Mione."
Hermione pulled back from the Pensieve and sighed heavily - reviewing these memories was getting more and more taxing as time went on.
She retrieved the memory and placed it back in its vial and set it in the holder she had for all the others. She sat down on the chair at her desk as she contemplated what to do next. Clearly, some things still weren't hashed out in the memory that Ginny had shown her, but it did showcase something. It seemed that the way that their relationship had carried on for as long as it did in the state that it did is because Ginny was able to apologize sufficiently enough and convince her old self to hold on for longer. Did she think that the apology was actually sufficient? No, not really. The vacation offer was generous, but as her old self had pointed out, it didn't exactly fix anything. Though, she had to admit that it did acknowledge the point that Ginny wasn't around enough - that offer spoke directly to that.
She was about to delve into another lengthy inner debate about how to proceed with Ginny when she closed her eyes and just shook her head. Despite how she should maybe feel, she wanted to speak with Ginny - end of story. This fragile balance and endless contemplation was growing so wearisome and she just wanted things to be simple for a change. Things may never be simple, but she could at least try to not complicate them further.
Again, she wished she could just produce a Patronus - it would be so much more efficient than writing a letter and getting Burrwick to deliver it. Disappointingly, she was still far from that point. With resignation, she pulled out a sheet of parchment and began to write.
"Thank you for coming over," Hermione said as she gestured for Ginny to take a seat at the desk, as she, too, sat down. A couple of days had passed since Hermione had sent Ginny the letter, and they'd arranged for Ginny to come over once again to talk about things.
"You're more than welcome," Ginny smiled as she idly took in her surroundings. "Thank you for inviting me."
Before launching into her questions, Hermione remembered her manners and gave Ginny a smile that she feared was a bit forced. "So, how have you been? How's work?"
"Oh," Ginny said, somewhat caught off guard. "I'm fine, thank you." She paused. "And work's okay. Well, no, frustrating actually. We're not having much luck on the Saundoval front, I'm afraid," she relayed with regret. "I actually thought we had him the other day. There was a sighting in Iceland, if you can believe it, and when we got there and managed to apprehend him, turned out that it was someone he'd given a rather potent Polyjuice Potion to throw us off the trail. We interrogated the man, but unfortunately it really was just an innocent person who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time and had no prior knowledge of Saundoval or any idea of what his intentions were."
"That's vile," Hermione said with a frown. "He's just going around the continent terrorizing people?"
Ginny let out a quick sigh. "Well, hopefully not for much longer. If he pulled that stunt, it must've meant that we were getting close and we spooked him. We'll have to be more discrete next time."
Hermione nodded slowly as she digested the information. With a sight frown, she asked, "Do you like being an Auror? It seems like one of the most stressful jobs you could have in the wizarding world. I understand that you went into this line of work because of Fred, and me a bit, I guess. But, do you ever regret it or grow tired of it?"
"Um," Ginny started as she worked through her thoughts on the matter, her gaze going adrift, "good question. Yes, it's certainly stressful at times. Well, a lot of the time. I never really thought extensively about becoming an Auror until the war started, but it was cemented by the time the war was over. Since then I haven't really looked back." She exhaled audibly as she locked eyes with Hermione. "I regret a lot about what this career has cost me. But, at the same time, if I could go back, I don't know that I'd drop the career altogether. I believe in what I do, but I'm not proud of how I let it take over my life...and yours." She let out a short laugh. "Of course I wonder sometimes how things could've been if I'd just played quidditch. A lot simpler, I imagine."
Hermione nodded in understanding. "That makes sense to me. And I do find your work admirable. And despite everything, I'm actually happy to hear that you don't fully regret everything. There's no point in living like that."
"No, you're right, there isn't," Ginny agreed with a faint smile.
"Maybe you could tell me more about how things were for you during the war," Hermione suggested gently. "Not now necessarily, but sometime. I'd like to know."
"Of course," Ginny obliged with a nod. "Whenever you'd like."
"Okay. Thank you - that means a lot to me. I know it's very personal," Hermione acknowledged, pulling a brief laugh out of Ginny.
"Well, you were my girlfriend of eight years, so if anyone's privy to 'personal', it'd be you."
"Perhaps," Hermione compromised, drawing out the word. "But, you could also argue that because I'm your ex, I have no right to any personal information."
Ginny tilted her head slightly from side to side in contemplation. "Mm, I guess. But you're not just ' an ex' to me. Not at all. And...well, I didn't want us to break up, so..."
Hermione couldn't help herself and she smiled at the woman before her. Refusing to stop and think further, she confessed in an affable tone, "I like you, Ginny." She laughed at how Ginny lit up and looked undeniably pleased.
"Really. Well, I like you too, Hermione," she returned.
A few responses were on the tip of Hermione's tongue, but reservation got the better of her and she merely raised an eyebrow with a shy smile and looked over at the Pensieve.
"So, how was our vacation to Spain?" She asked. "Did we actually get along?"
Ginny smile still lingered as she replied. "Yes, in fact we did - we got along very well." She sighed in nostalgia. "It was almost like old times. It was really nice. We saw a lot in that week, and all quite easily thanks to your charmed bags - no heavy luggage for us. Also, I have to say I'm quite proud that we didn't get lost once. Apparently both of us are quite adept at reading maps and navigating. We spent a lot of time in various cities, saw all the historical things that you wanted to see," she informed her with a smile, "but we also made time for the beach and you let us sneak in a quidditch match. One thing that always comes to mind is when we got caught in a rain storm on hike - sounds so cliché, but it turned out to be fun."
Hermione chuckled, aiming to be skeptical, but somehow ended up being genuine. "Maybe you can show me sometime."
"Sure," Ginny nodded eagerly. "In the meantime, which memory do you want to see?"
The brunette frowned in contemplation. She shouldn't ask - there must be hundreds of other things to inquire about.
"You know, you never did give me the next memory in the saga of how we got together."
"Mm," Ginny said with a nod, "Right. That one's a bit bitter/sweet. Did Harry show you the battle in the Hall of Prophecy? Department of Mysteries?"
"Vaguely," she replied. "He told me that's when Sirius was killed and the Ministry finally realized and accepted that Voldemort was back."
"Yes," Ginny nodded. "He didn't show you a memory though?"
"No, he didn't. I think it was a bit of a sore spot for him, considering Sirius."
"More than understandable. I wouldn't want to relive it either if I were him."
"So that's where our next memory occurs?" Hermione questioned, her brows furrowed together in mild confusion.
"Yeah, oddly enough," Ginny offered with a slight smirk. "Not exactly a time for romance, but I guess I saw opportunities where others might not."
"Okay, well, let's see it," Hermione instructed with a resolute nod. Ginny wordlessly obliged and gestured to the Pensieve when the memory was in place.
The members of the DA stood back to back in the Hall of Prophecies as Death Eaters that had begun to close in on them disappeared from sight momentarily. Ginny glanced over her shoulder at Hermione who was next to her and gave the brunette a single nudge.
"Hm," Hermione voiced tersely, refusing to shift her gaze.
"Hermione," Ginny whispered.
"What?" Hermione hissed, a stern look of concentration on her face.
"Look at me," Ginny requested. Hermione tutted irritably in response.
"Honestly. This is hardly the time, Ginny. Now focus. You-"
Ginny leaned in just so and whispered, "You know I'm in love with you, right?"
"What?!" Hermione exploded in a harsh whisper that encroached on a shriek.
"Stay sharp, Mione. I expect a response when this is all said and done," Ginny replied hurriedly as Death Eaters began to surround them. Out of the corner of her eye, Ginny saw Hermione open her mouth to speak, but there wasn't time.
"Now!" Harry ordered and each of the members cast a Reductor Curse, Hermione included despite the distraction.
"Let's go," Ginny instructed as a still slightly disheveled Hermione stood rooted to the ground. The redhead grasped her around the waist and urged her to run and they soon fell in line with the others as they ran.
"Ginny, I could kill you," Hermione whispered shakily as they continued their escape.
"I'm sorry," Ginny offered. "Seemed like a good idea at the time. Reflecting upon it; probably not the best timing."
"You think?!" Hermione snapped as she shot the other girl a brief look.
A moment later, Hermione's breath caught in her throat as she saw a Death Eater grabbing Harry.
"Stupefy!" She yelled, effectively stunning the Death Eater and freeing Harry.
"That's my girl," Ginny said with a wink.
As the enemies closed in on them, Ginny and Hermione rushed along with Harry until they found themselves in the Time Chamber, closely followed by a couple of Death Eaters who sealed the door behind them.
The three looked hurriedly around and immediately noted that they'd been separated from the others.
"Stupefy!" Harry called out and hit one of the Death Eaters with the curse.
Ginny's senses heightened almost painfully so as she heard the beginnings of the Killing Curse being cast. She turned to see the remaining Death Eater, wand poised menacingly at Hermione and the younger witch tackled him with all the force she could muster. Ginny shot back up and readied to cast a curse, but was beaten to it by Hermione who stunned the cloaked wizard.
"Mione," Ginny breathed as she approached the girl, her own legs unsure as the reality of what could've been set in. "Are you okay?" She asked as she placed her hands on the brunette's arms. Hermione gave a shaky nod, her own hands automatically coming up to rest on Ginny's waist. The moment she received confirmation, Ginny pulled the older witch into a tight hug.
"Guys, come on," Harry called as she started to run and waved to the both of them. The girls pulled back and looked at one another for a brief moment before breaking out into a run - their hands lingering together for a few crucial moments.
"In here," Harry ordered as they entered an office. They were in the office for only a second when they were each struck with spells.
"Impediment Jinx," Hermione breathed before casting a Silencing Charm on one of the Death Eaters as the other was put into a Full Body-Bind by Harry.
Before Ginny could stun the remaining Death Eater, he cast a non-verbal spell and it hit Hermione dead on. Ginny's heart ceased to beat as she watched Hermione drop to the ground in front of her in a lifeless heap. The younger witch instinctively tried to rush forward to drop to Hermione's side, but was still immobilized by the Jinx. In the moment she took to test her feet, the Death Eater hit her with a curse and Ginny was knocked back, a sharp snapping sound echoed across the room and searing pain shot up her leg as she felt her ankle break.
In wild anger, Ginny thrust her arm forward. "Reducto!" She screamed and though he'd raised a shield, the Curse was still powerful enough to throw him into the wall.
"Petrificus Totalus!" Harry yelled and as soon as the attack hit the wizard, Ginny felt her legs free up.
Only vaguely aware of the immobilizing pain radiating from her ankle, Ginny struggled to her feet, placing all her wait on her good foot, all the while never taking her eyes off of Hermione. Harry had rushed over to his friend and was checking her over.
"Is she okay?" She asked breathlessly as she hobbled over only to drop down next to the girl and moved the older witch's hair out of her face as she peered anxiously at her still form. Ginny's clenched her jaw tightly as she digested the image before her.
"She's alive. It's just a stunning spell of some sort. We have to get out of here though - find the others," Harry directed as he placed his arms under Hermione and picked her up. "Can you walk?" He asked as he glanced back.
"I'm fine - don't worry about me. Let's go," Ginny assured him and she followed along as best she could as they searched for the others.
Soon they found themselves in the another room and relief showed on her face as she saw the others. Neville was banged up and Ron seemed to be under the influence of a Curse, but everyone was alive.
Neville came over and took Hermione from Harry.
"Is she alright?" Neville asked as he glanced between Harry and Ginny.
"She'll be fine," Harry assured him and soon started to determine where to go from here.
"She was hit with a curse," Ginny explained as she limped closer and placed a hand tenderly on the back on Hermione's head. Ginny looked up to Neville and spoke somberly. "Keep her safe, Neville." Regret crossed her face and she dropped her gaze back down to Hermione as she gently caressed the top of the brunette's head. "I'm in no shape to protect her right now. I-"
"They're here," Harry alerted the group. "Seal the doors."
Ginny, Luna and Harry tried to seal the doors, but their magic wasn't strong enough and the Death Eaters broke through.
The skirmish continued and the last thing Ginny saw was Hermione's body as she shifted her gaze away from the stunning spell hurtling across the room towards her.
When Ginny woke, she was back in Hogwarts in the Hospital wing. As she sat up in bed, she noticed Madam Pomfrey and the other healers running around the wing tending to the other members of the DA. Ginny's eyes absently scanned the occupied beds around her until her gaze locked onto a dark-haired girl that a couple of Healers and Madam Pomfrey were fawning over.
Without another thought, Ginny sprung out of bed, only remembering mid-air about her ankle and winced pre-emptively as she landed. To her surprise and relief, everything felt normal, but she didn't spend a moment longer to relish the feeling as she jogged over to Hermione's bed and moved past the Healers to stand at Hermione's bedside.
"Excuse me, Miss Weasley," Madam Pomfrey ordered as she pushed the redhead back. "You need to give us space to tend to Miss Granger."
"Is she okay? Is she going to be fine?" Ginny asked as she reluctantly allowed the Healers space to do what they needed to do, all the while peering over their shoulders as best she could.
"She's going to be alright, Miss Weasley," Madam Pomfrey replied. "Now give us some space. We'll give you a full update after."
Ginny stood stiffly aside as she watched the women tend to Hermione. They went over her with wands and when the brunette showed the slightest signs of consciousness, they hurriedly administered a series of potions. In the meantime, Ginny received updates from Luna on what had occurred during the rest of the battle at the Ministry. Ginny looked around for Harry, but he was nowhere to be found.
In time, Madam Pomfrey came over and pulled Ginny aside.
"Miss Granger is going to be just fine. She's going to have to take a large dose of potions every day for the next few days, however. As I understand, the Death Eater was silenced when he cast the curse - thank Merlin for that because that curse would've killed Miss Granger if it had been cast verbally."
A large lump formed in Ginny's throat as she nodded rapidly in response to the matron's report. She swallowed it down.
"So, potions everyday? Which potions? How many days?" Ginny asked in a bit of a daze, before remembering, "Oh, and what interval?"
Madam Pomfrey smiled subtly at her. "I'll give you all the information when Miss Granger is discharged. For now, she needs rest."
Ginny nodded wordlessly, eyes trained on the brunette who was hardly awake. She was vaguely aware as Madam Pomfrey placed a caring hand on her shoulder before departing. The young witch glanced briefly after the woman before going up to Hermione's bedside and pulling up a chair. The brunette's head lolled to the side upon Ginny's arrival and her eyes struggled to focus on her visitor.
"Mione," Ginny whispered as she inched the chair closer and grasped Hermione's hand delicately in her own. "Mione, it's me."
Hermione blinked slowly with fluttering eyelids and she opened her mouth to speak. She struggled and Ginny brought her other hand up to the girl's head and tenderly pushed her hair back.
"Shh, it's okay. Save your energy. You're going to be fine, Mione - just rest, okay? I'll be right here. Sleep, okay?"
Whether Hermione understood or not, no further encouragement was needed and the brunette's eyes fluttered closed and she fell into a slumber.
Several hours later, Hermione slowly awoke, her subtle movements catching Ginny's attention. Daylight was streaming into the Hospital wing and yet the room was entirely quiet and void of activity - a stark change from the night before.
"Ginny?" Hermione questioned, her voice scratchy from lack of use.
"Mione." Ginny smiled. "Great to see you're awake. How are you feeling?" She asked as she set down her book and moved forward to grasp the brunette's hand once more.
"I've been better," Hermione said with a weak smile.
"Mm, I'll bet," Ginny said quietly.
Ginny went on to explain the events of what'd happened and Hermione listened intently - all her earlier haze gone.
"Oh no, Harry," Hermione said with a shake of her head. "Sirius was all he had left..."
"I know," Ginny said regretfully. "He's been keeping to himself since we got back. Can't blame him. I guess we're wise to give him some space for now."
Hermione sighed and drew her lips into a straight line. "I guess. He shouldn't isolate himself, but...we can't push him right now. You're right."
The girls grew silent as they both got lost in their respective thoughts. A while later, Hermione looked around and noted the fact that classes would be going on now.
"I convinced Madam Pomfrey and McGonagall to allow me to stay longer than usual. Under the circumstances, they made a rare exception," Ginny explained.
"Do you feel okay?" Hermione questioned. "Did you sleep at all last night?"
"I'm fine," Ginny assured her. "I slept enough. Don't worry about me." A slight lull formed as Ginny dropped her gaze and her thoughts went astray. She lifted her head and looked to Hermione with such a sober expression that the brunette's posture stiffened in apprehension.
"You almost died last night, Mione," Ginny whispered in quiet desperation, the anxiety she felt etched across her forehead in thin lines. "If the Order hadn't come...if you hadn't silenced Dolohov..."
Hermione sat back furthermore. "I'm fine, Ginny. I'm alive," she asserted as she gave Ginny's hand a light squeeze. "Some of us weren't so fortunate last night."
Ginny shook her head. She maintained her hold on Hermione's hand and got up from her chair to take a seat on the edge of the bed. Though Hermione seemed uncertain initially, within a moment she relaxed, silently giving Ginny permission to go on.
"Hermione...," Ginny started, her voice hitching. She took a moment to exhale in an attempt to regain her composure and in the process she grabbed her wand and cast a couple of charms around them so others wouldn't overhear and also to give them some cover from any prying eyes. "Hermione," she started again with renewed assuredness, "I don't know what I would've done if you were killed last night. When Dolohov got you...I just, I couldn't breathe, I couldn't think...I was just so scared. I don't think I've ever been so scared. Not even when I was in the Chamber of Secrets, if you can believe that."
"Ginny, I-" Hermione started, only to be met with a shake of Ginny's head.
"Just hear me out, please," Ginny requested quietly. "I really do love you Hermione. Whether you feel the same way or not. I know I annoy you sometimes with my antics, but I mean well. And," she gave a wry smile, "what can I say - I just want you to notice me...you're the only one I see."
The redhead exhaled inaudibly with a heave of her shoulders as she awaited the older witch's reply. Hermione's eyes studied Ginny as she took in the girl's declaration. She seemed to struggle to find the words, so to compromise she reached across with her other hand and held Ginny's between her own. After a moment, Hermione let her thumb graze along the back of Ginny's hand in a tender, subtle gesture.
"You stayed here all night?" Hermione asked quietly as she glanced downward for a prolonged second.
A beat passed, but Ginny soon replied. "Yes."
"Ginny," Hermione said softly as the faintest hint of a smile crept across her features, an unmistakable warmth in her eyes, "just even having you nearby makes things better. I'm so glad you're here. It feels as though it all sort of happened so fast and just...crept up on me, but I don't know what I'd do without you."
Ginny smiled gently. "Well, good news, I'm not going anywhere," she promised softly as she risked leaning in towards the other girl. Hermione never broke eye contact despite their increasing proximity. Ginny paused briefly as she hovered a short breath away from the brunette's lips. In that moment, Hermione leaned forward and captured Ginny's lips in a kiss that was both delicate and entirely overwhelming. Ginny brought her free hand up to cup the older witch's cheek and let her thumb softly caress the brunette's cheekbone as they renewed their kiss.
Things were on the cusp of intensifying when Ginny reluctantly pulled back, Hermione's following her for a split second before sitting back fully, her eyes slow to open to stare at Ginny with an unreadable expression.
"We can continue this when you're out and feel better," the younger witch promised with a smirk. "If you choose to, that is."
Hermione's cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink as she cleared her throat, her gaze flitting away briefly before offering a small series of nods. Ginny smiled.
"Stay with me?" Hermione requested lightly as she shifted over on the bed before cracking a smirk. "Considering you're skipping classes anyway."
Ginny's smile brightened. "Of course," she said as she shifted on the bed to sit next to Hermione. They looked at each other for a second before they made a wordless agreement. Ginny scooted up just so on the bed and pulled Hermione to her so that the girl was resting against the redhead's torso, head resting comfortably in the crook of Ginny's neck. The younger witch wrapped her arms around Hermione and couldn't hide her smile as the brunette made herself comfortable in their embrace. Hermione smiled as Ginny lay a lingering kiss on the top of her head.
"I won't let anyone else hurt you," Ginny quietly vowed. Hermione turned her head a bit, but the redhead just rubbed Hermione's arms in an effort to settle her. "Things are going to get worse before they get better, but I'll be better prepared next time. No one's going to hurt you if I can do anything about it."
"Ginny...you were spectacular. Next time I'll be better prepared," Hermione rebutted.
"You were brilliant."
Hermione sighed heavily, but didn't refute Ginny's claim. Instead, she let her eyelids close and rest her head more fully against Ginny.
"I'm afraid to admit that I could get used to this," she confessed with a slight chuckle. Ginny cracked a grin.
"I think I could deal with this becoming a habit - maybe not under these circumstances, but you know."
Hermione huffed quietly with a smirk.
"Get some sleep, Ginny."
"I'm fine. You go ahead, Mione. I'll wake you when it's time for your potions."
"Thank you Gin. For everything."
"Anytime," Ginny chuckled before tilting her head down to lay another soft kiss upon Hermione's soft tresses as the girl fell asleep.
When Hermione pulled back, she had to fight back the affectionate smile that threatened to cross her lips. She stared at the ripples in the Pensieve for a couple of seconds as she tried to calm the nerves in her that seemed to fire off at reliving such a charged memory. When she felt confident, she turned to Ginny who stood nearby with an expectant look on her face.
"Thank you for showing me that," Hermione stated. "It's something else entirely to see what actually happened during that battle than just hearing about it. And yes, you do have poor timing," she added with a wry grin. "Um, but, you were very sweet. Thank you...for looking out for me."
Ginny chuckled softly. "No need to thank me. As you saw, I wasn't overly successful. I tried though."
"Maybe that's where it started," Hermione pondered as she tilted her head in contemplation. Ginny frowned.
"Maybe where what started?"
"You. Your career as an Auror. This drive to catch the Death Eaters above all other things. I can absolutely understand how...Fred...would've escalated it and cemented it, and also my encounter with Bellatrix, but I could see how things could've actually taken root during that battle," Hermione explained.
Ginny mulled over the statement briefly. "Yes, that does make sense."
"Yes," Hermione blurted out with a level of excitement that caught her off guard on some level. "It does makes sense! I mean, you even said in that memory, "I'll be better prepared next time." And just your mannerisms throughout and the way that you tried to protect me - it all makes sense. Then, when Bellatrix hurt me, that pushed you furthermore down that road. Then when Fred died...it was sealed," Hermione elaborated as a series of light bulbs went off in her head. "I mean, I could tell early on that you have sort of adopted this 'protector' role; that's been quite clear. What wasn't clear was just how it became so prominent and could've drove you to act the way that you did in those other memories." Hermione paused as a frown formed on her face. "But...I assume I would've known this already. I mean, me before...I was actually there to witness everything, I should've been able to put it all together then too."
Ginny returned the brunette's frown. "Well, we certainly had a lot of talks surrounding Fred, but...I don't really know how productive they were or how far they went. I talked, but...perhaps not as thoroughly or honestly as I could've. I just wanted to move on. We didn't talk extensively about your 'encounter' with Bellatrix. Well, we did in a sense, we talked about it in terms of how to get you past it, but I suppose we didn't talk much about me. Not that we should've," Ginny insisted rather fervently. "That wasn't about me at all. You were the one who was tortured and hurt...there's no way it should've been about me."
"See Ginny," Hermione announced as she pointed her finger at the other girl, "that's exactly it. That's what I'm saying," she went on, her enthusiasm - however inappropriate - growing. She knew it was unacceptable to actually be excited about this discussion, but she'd always been one who was thrilled by the prospect of solving a puzzle. "We talked about me - I want to see those discussions as some point, by the way. But we didn't talk about how all of these people around you being harmed or taken from you, how these moments impacted you and formed your motivations, beliefs and values. Ginny, these kind of events scarred you, and from what I understand, you didn't truly work through these events. You built up your defenses and things just went completely astray. I don't know for sure, but if that is the case, then I'm at fault too for what's happened. From where I stand now, I believe that as your girlfriend and best friend, I shouldn't have let those things slide or been foolish enough to think things were okay."
"Mione," Ginny breathed, her eyebrows furrowed together as she vaguely shook her head at the brunette. "No. No...well, I don't know if you're right. I can see logic in it...but, in any case...none of it would've been your fault. You were always good and tried to talk with me about this. If anything, I just didn't allow you to help me."
"Then I should've pushed," Hermione insisted.
"Mione," Ginny said with a chuckle. "If there's anyone in the world - other than my mum - who can make me do something I don't want to do, it's you. But...for something like what we're talking about...if I didn't want to discuss things, or if I didn't believe anything was wrong, well, even you wouldn't get anywhere. And you didn't."
Despite everything, Hermione gave Ginny a teasing look. "I don't know, Ginny. I'm still sorting things out, but I think that if I'd really put my mind to it, I could've made you do what I wanted."
As the words set in, Ginny's jaw dropped and her eyes grew wide.
"And that came out all wrong," Hermione said in a hurried blur of words as she blushed. "My point was," Hermione said in exaggeration, "perhaps you didn't work through everything that you should've, things manifested and you compensated."
Ginny stood motionless for a few beats as she pondered the words. "That still wouldn't make what I did right."
"No," Hermione admitted, "but it would be a start."
A moment passed and the girls shared a look that conveyed understanding and something that Hermione reluctantly, yet with growing assurance, identified as hope.
"A lot happened in that memory," Hermione said, changing gears. Ginny shot her a grin.
"I'll say. That was a major turning point, not only for us, but the DA and all of the wizarding world as well."
Hermione shook her head in latent disbelief as her eyes shifted to stare unfocused at the far corner of the room. "Unbelievable." With a quick intake of breath, she returned her gaze to Ginny. "So, that was the memory - the one where we get together."
"Mm, no, actually," Ginny said a bit tentatively. "You'd think so, but no, it's not."
"Are you kidding? That," she gestured to the Pensieve, "didn't solidify it?"
Ginny shook her head animatedly. "Nope. 'Fraid not."
Hermione sighed impatiently. "Surely the next one then."
"That's right," Ginny chuckled.
Hermione narrowed her eyes at the other girl with the slightest hint of a smile. "I won't ask for it now. Next time, though."
"You always did exercise more discipline and restraint than me," Ginny teased, earning her a look.
"Anyway," Hermione went on pointedly, "I've decided that I'm going to go to Hogwarts next week. I sent an owl to Headmistress McGonagall and she's arranged accommodations for me. I'll stay for a couple of weeks - meet with various professors, practice the different disciplines, explore the grounds."
"That's excellent, Hermione," Ginny said brightly. "You're going to have a great time and I think it'll be a great opportunity for you."
"I hope so," Hermione replied.
"It'll be great," Ginny assured her. "You always loved Hogwarts. And believe me, it's more interesting there than at the Ministry."
"The Ministry was perfectly interesting," Hermione asserted, looking oddly offended. Ginny let out a small laugh.
"I really need to show you more of the wizarding world," she stated easily. Hermione didn't reply immediately and the girls stood quietly until Ginny cleared her throat. "Um, anyway, so who's taking you to Hogwarts?"
"Headmistress McGonagall has arranged for Hagrid to bring me to Hogwarts," Hermione replied.
"Oh," Ginny said with disappointment that was evident to the brunette. "Well, that's great," she added, attempting to veil her disappointment with a chipper tone. "You were friends with Hagrid right from year one. He's great, you'll like him."
Hermione nodded, suddenly at a loss for words. For whatever reason, she'd initially pictured Ginny accompanying her to Hogwarts, but as she'd gotten to know Ginny a bit better, that image had cemented itself more and more. There were obvious bouts of doubt and uncertainty after Janine's memories, but Hermione had to admit that Ginny was quite adept at redeeming herself. However, as Hermione stood here, she couldn't find it in herself to ask Ginny to go with her - despite everything, it just didn't feel like they were quite there. But, if Ginny asked her, she'd have to reconsider.
"Well, thank you for all of your encouragement, Ginny. I appreciate it," the older witch finally said.
"Yeah, not a problem," Ginny said with a tight smile.
"Um, well, I guess until next time then, hm?" Hermione said, clasping her hands together in a vain attempt to rid herself of the awkwardness that had overcome her.
"Yes," Ginny said with another smile that couldn't quite cover up her disappointment. "Anytime, Hermione."
"Thank you," Hermione said with a nod. For a brief second she pictured herself advancing and pulling the redheaded woman into a hug, but in reality Hermione's feet remained firmly rooted to the floor. "Well, have a good evening Ginny. Thanks again."
"No need to thank me," Ginny laughed lightly, Hermione noting the way it was slightly forced. The redhead gave her a patient look. "I told you there's no need to thank me for any of this. I'm more than happy to help." She dropped her gaze momentarily before smiling politely. "Alright, well, take care Mione. Um, send me an owl from Hogwarts if you have time or want to - I'd be curious to hear how you're liking it and what you've learned."
Hermione smiled warmly at the woman before her. In the back of her mind she realized how simple this could all be.
"Gladly. Talk to you soon, Ginny."
AN: Well, perhaps too much "Pensieve-time" in this chapter, but hopefully it was okay. Let me know your thoughts Thanks again to everyone for reading. All the support is fantastic and just amazing!
Shout Outs:
Found that Special One: Not to worry! I'm thankful for the feedback you've given! And you're way too kind saying I don't need input or guidance lol. Well, it's actually a good thing I'm not consistently told that I should've written things a different way since I tend to write chapters in advance and they'd be tough to change :p I could use a fluffy break ;) I'll try to check out 'Earphones' this weekend
cha1890: Thank you very much for reviewing I'm especially flattered that this is one of your first reviews. I'm really happy to hear that you've enjoyed the story so far – I hope you liked the latest chapter. Hope you're patient ;) because Hermione might be stuck in this situation for a while longer!
J: Well, very nearly there with the memory of them getting together! So very close!
rookie802: I figured we could all use a little bit of Luna :p I'm happy to hear that it's easier to see things from Ginny's POV as the story progresses. Thank you for the well wishes!
mimitsouko: Hermione has good sense (well, with Luna's guidance – you're right, she really knows how to simplify a situation). Janine's still a bit enigmatic, but she's certainly not out to make friends with Ginny :p Give me a question and I'll answer it ;) I'm not particularly good at deciding what would be interesting to share! Haha.
LauraFlowi: Luna's always right :p Jk, though she has an incredible tendency to be right. There have been a lot of Pensieve scenes in the past few chapters, but as we go further along it'll be more about new memories. Thank you very much for the kind wishes for the New Year – same to you as well! I'm also very happy to hear a new chapter of Unbreakable is in the works :D Take care.
Poetheather1: "She doesn't sell it well" – well said! Janine certainly is shrouded in a bit of mystery – whether it's good or bad. Glad you liked the conversation with Luna. Hermione has plenty of 'logic and reason', but Luna's influence is still needed.
leilane . castro: Luna's always great to have around ;) You're right, it wasn't really an upstanding thing of Janine to do (giving Hermione those memories). Good news – no Janine in this chapter! Thanks again for the feedback and for reading
A.R. Van Halleorg: Thank you very much – I hope you have a great year as well I'm curious to know what you don't like about Janine's personality. Just curious :p Well, I hope the upcoming chapters are squeal-worthy! Lol.
crookshanks: Thank you! Hey, I don't consider it a bad thing that you're pissed with Ginny! She was still an arse, right? :p And, Janine helped Hermione feel better in the memory itself – maybe not in 'current time' :p but in the memory she did! It would've been awesome if Hermione picked Ginny to take her Hogwarts (like she's going to a ball...), but...it's Hagrid And yes, never doubt the power of Luna's influence ;) "I miss Ginny already!" haha that's so awesome! Thanks for reading.
kermittounette: Thank you very much for leaving a comment I really appreciate it. I'm happy to hear that the story has been intriguing enough to keep you interested! Good question about how many chapters – I'm not quite done yet, but I'd say at least 10 more chapters. Too much? Lol. Perhaps – I'm a little long-winded at times!
vale89: More than okay – I understand ;) I'm just happy to hear that you've enjoyed the last few chapters. With any luck, this one was to your liking as well Well, keep rooting for Ginny as she tries to prove her faith to Hermione ;) Thanks again and best wishes for the New Year as well.
BlueWingedEncore: No problem. Haha, well, trying to run with it at least :p I had another Pensieve memory in this chapter originally, but removed it – too many memories in one chapter it seemed and it wasn't super essential. Maybe I can work it in elsewhere though :p
homieGballer: Thank you very much. Haha, I'm glad someone enjoyed Hermione being possessive of Ginny ;) She's got some fire in her as well! I hope you enjoyed the latest update. Thanks again!