Sequel: A Changed Destiny, Part II
Disclaimer: I don't own the Harry Potter world, and I don't get paid for this. Not mine; please, don't sue.
"Hey, you two." I said loudly, offering Fred and George a huge smile. "You called me here. What? Don't tell me you're short a helper." I said sarcastically.
Fred had a huge box in his hand. He walked over to me and smiled. "In fact, we are, baby sister. Here." He said, shoving the box at me. I barely caught it.
George looked up from behind the counter and smiled. "Welcome home." He said, grinning wickedly at me.
I looked at Fred in horror. "No, I'm not- "
"See yah." Fred said lightly, walking away. Then, he turned. "Oh, and I need that box over there, next to the door." He said, pointing. I glared at him and sighed, walking over to the door and dropping the box onto the ground.
"Hey!" George yelled, glaring at me. "I'll have you know that box contains sensitive materials." He said, trying to sound serious.
"I can't believe you called me here to help." I said indignantly. "Where do you need me?"
Fred smirked. "That's the spirit. Over at the desk. Go." He yelled, pushing me toward George and the counter.
"Take over." George said hurriedly.
My mouth fell. "I-I don't- "
"Learn." George said forcefully, running up the stairs. I sighed, turning to face smaller children in their shop with an overwhelmed expression.
I'm going to kill them. "Who's next?" I asked, forcing a smile. A loud chorus of 'me' could be heard everywhere.
"Just great." I said chipper.
When the evening approached (and the little brats decided to go home), I sat down, truly tired. I glared up at the twins, who were smirking wickedly at me.
"Remind me why you had me working like a house elf!" I yelled. They chuckled.
"Well, we figured you'd need a break from Mum." George said lightly. Fred nodded.
"And, we just wanted to throw you to the little cretins." He said, squeezing my shoulder.
I shook my head. "You're both evil." I whined.
"We know. So, how are things going with Dad?" George asked.
I glared at him for changing the subject. "Awkward." I grumbled.
"And Bill?" Fred asked, grinning widely at me.
"Horrible." I said simply. They both chuckled.
"Lighten up, Gin." Fred said, slapping me on the arm lightly.
"Yeah, it's going to take…time." George said.
I shrugged. "I know. I've never been patient though." I said softly.
"Well, we all have to learn things from time to time." George said lightly. "Come on, we want you to get reacquainted with Angelina and Katie."
I frowned. "I honestly never knew them."
Fred grinned. "Well, you will now." He said smoothly. "Come on, I know you're having dinner with Bill and Fleur on Saturday. This won't be nearly as unpleasant as that."
I grinned. "Yeah, you're right. I guess I should consider myself lucky, hmm?" I said, eyeing both twins.
Both of them saluted me. I rolled my eyes.
"Duh! Let's go." George said, pushing me into the Floo to meet "the love of his life".
That evening was fun. The time afterward, however, was far from fun. In fact, it was awful.
(Later that Evening)
"When are you going home?" Dad asked pointedly, staring up at me without his glasses.
"Late Saturday. I'll visit you and Mum every other week or so." I said, about to head upstairs.
Dad sighed and looked down, shaking his head slowly at the table. "So you're really going to put her through all of that." He said tiredly. I frowned.
"What do you mean?" I asked, obviously confused.
Dad's hands clenched, as if he were forcing himself to not slam them down onto the table. He looked as if he wanted to stand, and I couldn't help but stiffen as I gazed at him.
"You're really going to just go on with your life by coming in and out of hers." Dad said heatedly. "I won't let you hurt her with your selfishness, Ginny."
I tried not to let his words hurt me, but they did. Shame! I should've been used to it by now.
"I'm not trying to hurt Mum, and I'm not being selfish. I mean, seriously, what do you want from me? I came back! I said I was wrong, and Mum doesn't hold anything against me-."
"And you're taking advantage of that fact, aren't you?" He said, standing now. "You owe her much more than the truth, Ginny."
I closed my mouth, trying to calm myself. "I know and I'll make it up to everyone I promise." I said shakily, about to head upstairs.
"No, that's not everything." He said quietly, making me freeze. "You can stay and clean up your mess. You can start over the right way with this family, your blood. You don't belong-."
"It took you long enough but you finally said it. Let's get this straight: I belong wherever I want to be, and they are my family-."
"More so than us." He said forcefully, stepping closer to me. "How could you brag to your mother about them, Ginny? How could even tell her about them at all?"
"I told Mum about them because they matter to me. I wasn't bragging." I screamed, forgetting that I was yelling at my father.
My Dad reddened. "But they do mean more to you than us." He said softly, his voice tired and burdened.
My eyes widened. "I love you all the same, but you can't see that because you see what you want to see and nothing else. You hear what you want to hear. Ever since I've came back into this house, your mind has been going over Tristan's words-."
"DON'T speak that woman's name in this house." He said, regaining his composure.
I narrowed my eyes at him. "You know, blaming me or yourself isn't going to help this rift between us." I said rationally.
"Who says that I want it gone?" He said flatly, leaning up against the wall exhaustedly.
I felt a painful clutch in my chest that truly hurt more than anything. I could feel the slowing of my heartbeat, as if I were losing my life. I ignored it and tried to focus. I hadn't imagined his words. No, they were real.
"Well, if that's what you want then, so be it." I said shakily, my voice on the verge of tears.
I walked up an extra step and turned around to face him. He was looking up at me with wide-eyes.
"I won't bother you, and you won't bother me. I'll be dead to you after all." I said coldly, turning my back on him and heading up the stairs, to my room.
I gently closed my door and slid to the floor. I couldn't will away the tears. I breathed heavily, trying to get reason and calm to return to me. I looked up and saw the sun setting in my window. I couldn't move; in fact, I didn't move at all that night. I sat there, subconsciously waiting for my Dad to come and tell me that everything between us would be okay. But it wouldn't be okay. He didn't want me to be in his life. He never came to my door. I was dead to him. He just wanted me gone.
"What happened between you and Dad?" Percy asked, frowning at me.
I swallowed loudly. "The truth was just too much. We agreed to just let the other be." I said, shrugging nonchalantly.
Percy shook his head. "Don't do that, Ginny?"
"Why did you call me here, Percy?" I asked impatiently, changing the subject.
"DON'T shut us out, Ginny." He said, barely controlling his voice. "We're all trying our best. You have to try and make this work with Dad. You can't leave until you do. You'll regret it-."
"No, I won't." I said honestly. Percy glared at me. I explained further.
"If things are meant to work out between us, then we'll work past our issues some day. I can't worry about that right now, because that's just not what I need. I don't need more guilt, more shame and anguish. I need happiness and a life - a good one too. I may not be as honest as all of you, but I deserve that much. And don't call me selfish for it. If that makes me selfish, then fine." I said, standing up to leave.
"Ginny, that's not why I called you here." Percy said level-headedly, trying to get me to sit down again. I sighed and took my seat.
"I was wondering, have you…considered all of your options?" He asked subtlety.
I rolled my eyes. "Yes, I have and I've chosen."
Percy clenched his jaw, reminding me of me. "What about becoming an Auror? A healer? Seriously, Ginny, you don't have to live like a muggle-."
I laughed. "I'm not going to completely live like a muggle. How many times must I repeat myself? But I am going to have a quiet life, away from all of this." I said forcefully.
"Away from us, you mean." He said pointedly.
"No. I just want peace and this world just never seems…I guess, tranquil. I don't feel like fighting in another war." I said wryly, seeing Percy frown. I laughed.
"Come on, Percy; even you can't pretend. Ron and Harry told me about how the Death Eaters like to get 'active' from time to time. I mean, you all seriously can't be that deluded. Something's bound to happen in a decade or two. Look at the break between Grindlewauld and Voldemort. Some other lunatic is bound to step forth and declare himself Lord or some nonsense." I spat, shaking my head irately.
"Ginny, I doubt that-." Percy began.
"Okay, whatever." I said dismissively. "Look, I just don't want any part in this place. It's my life, my choice. But I am glad you want me around. I just can't stay here. I'm sorry." I said softly.
Percy nodded slowly. "There are a lot of things about you that I'm going to have to get used to, Ginny."
I grinned. "Yeah, but at least we have time." I said lightly, enjoying the rest of the evening around Percy and his wife Audrey.
"Ginny," Fleur said, her voice somewhat cold. "Come in." She said, stepping aside to invite me into Shell Cottage.
I walked inside, peering around the place for the first time ever. I'd never been in my eldest brother's home. It looked homey.
"Zis way." Fleur said, beckoning me to follow her. She led me to the kitchen, and the people inside surprised me.
"Ginny," I heard. My head snapped to the right side of the room.
"Remus!" I said breathlessly, a smile widening on my face.
His smile widened upon seeing me. "Nice to finally see you." He said, enveloping me in a hug.
I laughed, pulling back from the hug to get a good look at him. His hair was incredibly gray now and he did look extremely tired. This Lupin, however, looked well taken care of. He clearly was a happy man.
"What are you doing here?" I asked, surprised. "They didn't mention anyone else."
Remus grinned. "And here I was thinking you'd be thrilled to see me." He said lightly.
"I am happy to see you. Is little Teddy here then? I've heard so much about him."
Lupin nodded. "He's not so little anymore." He said, waving his son over to us.
"Hi, Teddy. My name is Ginny." I said, kneeling down in front of the boy with electric blue hair. The five year old smiled shyly at me. Did he not speak much?
"He's not too good around strangers." Remus said, watching his son turn around and run over to Bill's daughter, Victoire.
I sighed, looking at the two children. "A lot has changed." I said quietly, more to myself.
Lupin patted me lightly on the back. "You certainly have. Come on, I think Bill wants to talk with you about something." He said, pulling out a chair for me at the table.
I looked up upon hearing Bill come into the room. Victoire, who looked to be about three or four, stood and ran to her father, who picked her up and held her like she was his world. I felt my eyes getting warmer and I looked away, choosing to focus on Fleur instead.
"Ginny, are you okay?" Remus asked, his voice knowing.
My eyes snapped onto his. "Yeah, I'm fine." I said quickly. Lupin didn't believe me. He just continued to study me.
Bill sat down at the head of the table, which was to the right of me. Victoire was in his arms, staring at me now.
"Daddy, who is she?" The little girl whispered, staring at me with her mother's eyes.
Bill looked at me seriously but answered: "This is your Aunt Ginny, my sister, remember?" He asked softly, seeing his daughter look up at him with confusion.
"But, Daddy, you said she was gone." Victoire said innocently and I cringed by her tone.
Bill reddened. "She was, but she's back now." He said hesitantly, offering his daughter a tight, warm smile.
The little girl nodded and held out her arms to me. I looked wide-eyed at the child, blinking stupidly. The little girl sighed impatiently; she was beginning to look hurt. I looked at Bill, and he reluctantly nodded. I forced a smile and took my niece into my arms. My eyes studied her just as intensely as she studied me.
"You're pred-dee, Aunt Ninny." Victorie said, making me laugh and smile at her.
"You're prettier, chéri." I said honestly, looking at a miniature Fleur. The girl grinned at me and hopped down off of my lap. She ran down the length of the table to where her playmate Teddy was. I watched her join the boy, jerking a toy from his hand.
"Ginny," I heard and my eyes snapped from the young child to Bill's face.
I blinked. "I'm surprised you came." He said cautiously. I nodded.
"I said I would." I responded quietly. Things quieted then. Fleur announced that dinner was ready.
She looked at me and glared. "Well, are you not going to help?" She snapped, so much like my Mum.
I nodded quickly and stood. "Yeah, sorry." I said, not really expecting Fleur to speak to me period.
After I set the plates in front of the children (who frowned at the vegetables on the plate), I sat back down in my seat, across from Fleur, who didn't seem as resentful as before. There was small talk happening between Lupin, Bill and Fleur. Apparently, they always had dinner with one another. I, however, tuned out most of their conversation. I watched Teddy and Victoire in wonder.
"Ginny. Ginny." Bill repeated. I turned and shook my head.
"Sorry. I wasn't paying attention." I said, feeling stupid. Bill nodded.
"Obviously," Fleur said sarcastically. I stiffened but forced a smile.
"She's beautiful." I said genuinely, nodding at Bill and Fleur. "And smart." I said with a smile, trying to fight the swell of emotions that threatened to overtake me at this moment.
Fleur and Bill looked proud. "Yes, my daughter is lovely like zat." Fleur said, her voice loving and warm.
I nodded. "She really is." I said, smiling at Fleur. "I bet you're teaching her French."
Fleur's smile widened. "Of courze." She said simply.
I grinned. "I should've known."
Bill cleared his throat and I knew that was a signal for the real conversation at hand to begin. I couldn't help but tense up now.
"I'm glad you came and I won't argue with you, not like I used to in the past." He said, his voice filled with regret. "I can't say that I can look past everything, Gin. But I do want to make this work. You're family and I want this to be a second chance for us all." Bill finished, his voice controlled but genuine.
I let out a sigh of relief and nodded. "Thanks. I'll try not to let you down." I said, looking at Bill, Fleur and Remus shortly. The atmosphere in the room then relaxed.
"You leave tomorrow?" Remus asked.
"Later tonight actually." I said, looking at him squarely.
"Back to New Zealand?" Bill asked, his voice hard and somewhat cold.
I nodded. "Yeah."
"For how long?" Fleur asked, staring at me penetratingly.
I shrugged. "For now, indefinitely." I responded quietly.
"But, what would you do?" Fleur asked, looking confused.
I smiled. "I begin work on Monday. I think it'll be okay. I'll be fine." I said confidently.
"There are jobs here, Ginny." Remus said, frowning at me.
"She doesn't want them." Bill said, his voice bordering furious.
I looked down, not really knowing what to say now. "It's a bit far, but I can always visit with a portkey or something. Percy is actually working on that now; he says he'll use his ministry contacts and see what he can do. I'll be around so often, it'll be like I'm always here - at least, on the weekends." I said softly.
"You mean that?" Bill asked, his blue eyes locked onto my brown.
I smiled. "Yeah, you can visit anytime you want. I plan to get my own soon. It'll take me a while to get settled, but I'll have my own place. Maybe I can get it hooked up to the Floo network or something. I'd be glad to see you anytime." I said, looking at him, Fleur and Remus.
For the first time this evening, Bill smiled. After having dinner with them, things seemed somewhat alright. We had issues but all of us were determined to work through them. And this made me feel a lot better because there was still some hope left after all.
(3 Months Later/ December 2003)
"Hey, you're finally home." Percy said with a frown. "I don't like the time difference one bit." He complained for the thousandth time.
I rolled my eyes, hanging up my coat before sitting. I walked over to the sofa in my flat, plopping down across from him.
Percy continued to complain. "I'm serious, Ginny. The only time anyone gets to see you are on the weekends." He said admonishingly.
"Or during an early lunch." I drawled pointedly, staring at my food that Percy was eating.
Percy grinned and shrugged, looking a lot like Ron. "I still can't believe you work so late on Fridays." Percy said, scandalized. "I mean, I believe in hard-work like any sensible person, but arriving home at eleven is just ridiculous."
I smiled. "You're repeating Audrey's words." I said in a sing-song voice.
Percy scowled. "I know." He said distastefully. "And it still sounds utterly ridiculous."
I laughed. "I'll be sure to let your wife know that the next time I see her." I said, receiving a glare from Percy.
He shook his head. "Where's the brat? I was actually looking forward to seeing him." Percy said, referring to Aiden.
I laughed. "He won't be visiting tonight." I said simply. Percy frowned.
"It's a Friday night and he's young." I said, hoping that explained everything. Percy nodded.
"I was hoping the brat and I could double team you with a lecture." He said wryly.
I shook my head, rolling my eyes. "The least you could've done was fixed me a plate." I snapped, sending him a light glare.
Percy shrugged. "It's in that box." He said, indicating the microwave.
I grinned, standing to go have a very late dinner. "Did you come to remind me about Victoire's birthday party? I didn't forget. I have her gift here." I said, pointing to the closet.
Percy shook his head. "No, I knew you'd remember that. I was just checking in, as usual." He said, looking at his watch.
"Drat, I've to go." He said hurriedly, standing up to Floo out of the flat.
He was now inside the fireplace. "Don't forget about the party." He said seriously.
I rolled my eyes. "Okay, Perce. Bye." I said lightly, watching him leave for work again.
I made sure the door to my flat was locked (I was horrible when it came to locking doors) and then I walked to the sofa in the living room. After five minutes, I was asleep.
"You late, Aunt Ninny." Victoire said, pouting her lips up at me.
I kneeled down to her level. "And I am very sorry. Silly old me overslept, chéri. Am I forgiven?" I asked, smiling at the four year old.
She beamed at me and nodded. I smiled. "Here's your present, but don't tell your Mummy and Daddy I gave it to you already." I whispered, watching the girl nod seriously. I grinned, watching her take off down the hall to tell her mother about the gift I'd given her.
"Hi, Audrey." I said somewhat distractedly, putting away my things. "You look a bit sick." I said concernedly, seeing that she didn't look too good.
Audrey smiled a bit crookedly. "Oh, no, I'm fine." She lied. I miss the old days when I'd just pry into people's minds and know all of their secrets. I thought reminiscently.
"Alright. Have Luna and Hermione arrived?" I asked.
"Not yet. Funny, you beat them here." She said, smiling warmly at me.
I grinned. "That is unusual." I said, trying to cover up my yawn.
"What? No work this weekend?" She asked teasingly. "You're seriously worse than Percy, Ginny."
I shook my head. "Nope, no work. I'm going to go help out in the kitchen. Call me if you need anything, seriously. Perhaps you should sit down. I'll bring you some water." I said hurriedly.
(Later that day)
"She loved her party." I said fondly, watching a sleeping Victoire in Bill's arms. I couldn't help the yawn that escaped me.
"You're tired, still." He said, staring concernedly at me.
"No, I'm fine." I said dismissively. "Can I put her to bed?" I asked excitedly.
Bill grinned, shaking his head at me. "Don't wake her, Ginny." He said chidingly, handing the girl over to me.
I grinned. "Never." I said wickedly, holding my niece in my arms.
It took me no time to reach her room. Once I neared her bed, I pulled back the sheets and gently laid her down, smiling warmly at the sleeping child. She was tired after such an exciting day. I quietly walked out of the room, gently closing the door behind me. I turned, seeing Remus. I rolled my eyes.
"Bill sent you, didn't he?" I didn't wait for an answer. "I told him I wouldn't wake her."
Remus grinned. "Well, you did wake her the last two times." He said pointedly, smiling warmly at me.
"You all won't let that go." I said, walking down the hall with Remus. "Where's Teddy?" I asked, seeing the five year old nowhere.
Remus smiled. "He's spending the night with Harry and Luna."
I nodded, remembering now. We were now in the kitchen and Fleur looked extremely exhausted.
"Excuse me, Remus. Fleur looks like she could use help." I said hurriedly, seeing Lupin smile crookedly at me.
I walked away, choosing to help my sister-in-law in the kitchen. I didn't go home that evening, although I really meant to. Instead, I fell asleep on Bill's sofa.
(January 2004)
Out of all my sister-in-laws, I was surprisingly more close to Audrey (Percy's wife). Hermione and I often talked, but she still had trust issues with me. Audrey's weird behavior at Victoire's party could only be explained by one thing: She was pregnant.
I didn't share much of my life with the Trio, Luna, and the Twins. Oddly enough, it was Percy, Audrey, Bill, Fleur, Victoire, Remus and little Teddy who were constantly present in my life. They visited the condo, which I sometimes shared with Aiden, who'd be leaving for college in the fall. I looked forward to Alexa's return. Tristan agreed to allow them to live in the condo with me for the summer. It would be nice, mostly because it would be like old times. I visited Mum every Sunday, but I often avoided Dad. At least, he'd speak to me now. He'd say hello and other small phrases, nothing else.
"Fred flooed yesterday," Audrey said. "He wants you to come by sometime. Aiden, would you pass me the…remote, right?" She asked, a thoughtful frown donning her face.
Aiden grinned. "You're learning." He said, handing it to her. "Hey, is Percy coming over later? I'll stay up to see him." Aiden said hopefully, speaking to Audrey.
Audrey smiled. "I don't think he will, but he might. Besides, you know how Ginny is about early morning visits."
"Exactly," I drawled. "Aiden, you're going to bed. You have school, remember?"
Aiden looked at the clock, seeing that it was now 12:30AM. He scoffed and rolled his eyes.
"Excuse me, but I'm the man of this house." He said playfully, making Audrey laugh.
I grinned, shaking my head. "I wonder what Tristan- "
"All right, no need for threats." He grumbled. "It looks like I won't be staying up to three in the morning."
Audrey and I talked for another hour, discussing what she'd name her "little one". Percy and Audrey were excited to be parents and they should be; I knew they'd be more than great.
(January 2004)
"Ginny, can you watch Victoire and Teddy tonight?" Fleur asked from the fireplace. "You know what I have to tell him and I just- "
I sat down in front of the fireplace and smiled. "Yea, you needn't ask. But why is Teddy- "
"Remus will be working late with Harry and Ron; none of the others could watch him. You don't mind, do you?" She asked worriedly.
"No." I sighed. "Besides, those two are inseparable anyway."
Fleur smiled. "Thank you. I'm sorry to wake you for this, but we'd really appreciate it. Are you sure you're up for watching them?" She asked nervously.
I nodded. "I'm fine. I'm an insomniac, remember?" I said, grinning at her.
She nodded and thanked me again, leaving the fireplace. I sighed, wanting to see Bill's face when he found out that his wife was pregnant, yet again.
(Four hours later)
"Remus," I sighed with relief. "Thank goodness you're here. Your son is impossible."
Lupin grinned. "He's the son of a marauder. Of course, he's impossible. Where is he? He wasn't too much of a handful, was he?"
I shook my head. "No, not really." I said, walking to Bill's drawing room and sitting on the couch.
Teddy stood and ran into his father's outstretched arms. The boy looked over at me with neon green hair and smiled. It was his way of apologizing for the antics he and Victoire got up to tonight. I looked and saw my niece playing with Bill's broom. How had they found that? I thought irritably, standing up to take it away from her. Victoire held her arms up, gesturing for me to pick up her. I smiled, lifting the girl up and sitting down on the sofa next to Remus. I looked down, seeing Victoire place her head on my shoulder. The stubborn girl was clearly trying to fight a yawn.
"Come on." I said, standing with her. "To bed you go, chéri. You can play with Teddy tomorrow. Goodness sakes knows it past both your bedtime. Say night-night." I said, carrying her to her room.
After tucking Victoire into bed, I closed the door behind me and walked back into the drawing room.
"What's wrong, Remus? I didn't know Aurors worked so late nowadays." I said smoothly, looking at Lupin with a small smile. Remus looked away from a sleeping Teddy in his arms and grimaced at me.
"The Death Eaters." He said awkwardly, staring at me for a reaction. I tensed, frowning at him now.
"What about them? They're all gone, aren't they?" I asked flatly.
"Not all of them. A few evaded capture and they've been active recently." Remus said, studying me closely.
"How many?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
"We were never able to find Rabastan Lestrange or Dolohov. Even Amycus Carrow evaded arrest for all these years." Lupin said tiredly, although he closely observed my reaction.
I gulped and sat next to Remus. "Are there any others?"
Lupin shook his head. "Not that I know of, no. The Malfoys and the Notts-."
"What about the Notts?" I asked quickly without thinking, seeing Remus frown.
"They were able to buy their way out of Azkaban." He said bitterly, looking almost as if he were about to spit.
I nodded and, for a long time, there was silence between us. Then, Remus spoke again. "What are you thinking, Ginny?"
My eyes locked onto his, slightly fearful. "You have to stay away from Dolohov, Remus. I mean it, do not duel him."
"Because he killed me once." Remus said softly, although his voice was slightly cynical.
"Don't be a dead, stupid Gryffindor." I spat, seeing him frown. "You have a son who needs you, so I suggest you think about him. Stay away from Dolohov, and keep Harry and Ron away from him too. I bet he's behind this activity Ron spoke of."
"Harry, Ron and I just don't understand their patterns of attack-." Lupin said irately, shaking his head.
"And you're wondering if I'll be able to tell you something." I said acerbically.
Remus sighed. "We're not trying to be insensitive, Ginny, but you do know their ways." He finished resolvedly, not regretting bringing up this subject at all - I could tell.
I looked at Teddy before answering. "They're probably trying to scare people. They're leaderless and the majority of them are dead. I wouldn't worry if I were you. Relax, the war is over."
Lupin smiled a tight smile and nodded. "Thanks." He said awkwardly. "Sometimes, it just doesn't feel like that, you know." He finished, standing up to leave.
I sighed. "I wouldn't know, Remus. I was gone, remember?" I said sadly, seeing him nod curtly and reach for the door.
At the last moment, he turned around and spoke to me. "Who do you think is leading them now?"
I sighed. "You said their attacks are erratic, so that leads me to suspect that neither Lestrange nor Dolohov are involved. They weren't his lieutenants but they do know how to orchestrate consistent attacks. I think it's Carrow, but I could be wrong. Look, Remus, I don't want to sound…ungrateful or anything." I said, seeing him frown.
I continued. "But I don't want to get pulled back into any of that, alright? You've been awesome about letting me back into your life, so maybe I can help with an idea or something; but I won't fight anymore. That's over for me." I said seriously, seeing him nod understandingly and walk out of Shell Cottage with his son.
(Late January 2004)
"How is your magic coming along?" Tristan asked, looking worriedly at me.
I smiled at her and Aiden. "Some days I feel like its really strong, and then sometimes I feel like its really weak. It's weird, you know. For three days, I could barely levitate a tea cozy and then afterward, I was able to levitate everything - and I do mean everything - in sight."
Aiden frowned. "Do you know what's wrong?" He asked nervously.
I shook my head. "I don't understand why it's like this. I never thought I'd struggle this much after getting my magic back." I sighed, trying to force myself to remain calm.
Tristan leaned forward and gently placed a hand on my shoulder. "You should tell your parents or your brothers-."
"I won't bother them with this," I said forcefully, seeing Aiden and Tristan share a brief look with one another before speaking again.
"Ginny, if you want your family to trust you, then you have to tell them things like this. They're only looking out for-."
"No, they'd be worrying and I don't want that." I said softly. "Look, I'll continue practicing. If it gets any worse, I'll talk to someone. I promise, Tristan." I saw Tristan and Aiden nod, although I saw Aiden narrow his eyes speculatively at me.
"Don't you dare breathe a word to Percy or the twins, Aiden. I'm serious." I said, glaring at the boy.
He nodded reluctantly and we spent the rest of the evening, discussing Aiden and Alexa. I really couldn't wait till Alexa's summer holiday. I felt like only then would I be able to slow down and really enjoy life with both of my families.
"Gin," Ron yelled, stepping into the sitting room of my flat.
"I'm right here, Ron. There's no need to yell." I said from the sofa, smiling up at him. "What are you all doing here? Why aren't you at work?" I asked, staring at the Trio and Luna.
"And here we were, thinking you'd be happy to see us." Harry said, plopping down on the loveseat with Luna. I frowned, thinking Harry was spending too much time around Remus.
"I'm thrilled." I said sarcastically. "You're all off work early. Why?" I asked suspiciously.
"We have a list we want you to glance over." Hermione said, holding out a scroll of parchment to me.
I frowned. "Nice to see you too, Hermione. So this is work." I said, taking the parchment from her.
My gaze then hardened. "These are former Death Eaters." I said stonily, glaring at her.
"Don't be like that, Gin. You said you'd help Remus." Ron said hopefully.
Aiden stood up from the computer and sat on the sofa next to me. Of course, he'd be interested in hearing more about Death Eaters.
"It's past midnight, Aiden. Go to bed." I said tiredly, watching the teen about to argue with me. I pulled out my wand and pointed it at his head.
"I'll turn you into a ferret." I threatened.
"You wouldn't." He said, narrowing his eyes at me. I smirked.
"Try me." I snapped. Aiden groaned and made a show of going to his room. Harry and Luna chuckled. I watched Aiden leave, shaking my head.
"He shouldn't know of our world." Hermione said disapprovingly. "The International Statute of Secrecy forbids it." She said bluntly.
I glared up at her. "Your International Statute of Secrecy can go screw- "
"No, no." Luna said serenely. "How about we don't do this today?" She asked in a way that reminded me of Dumbledore.
"Would you just look at the list, Ginny?" Harry asked, clearly not wanting to hear an argument.
I sighed and glanced over it. I handed it back to Hermione, saying nothing.
"Well?" She snapped.
I rolled my eyes. "I don't know. None of those names had any weight with Voldemort, okay. I can't see them following someone who he didn't somewhat respect."
Harry sighed and nodded. "Thanks, Gin."
"Yea, no problem." I said softly.
"And h-how do we know you're telling the truth?" Hermione asked, her voice distrusting, although she clearly wasn't trying to pick a fight with me.
I sighed. "Look, Hermione, I get it. You have problems letting me back in your life. Fine! I honestly don't care what your problem is- RON, SHUT UP! This is my house, remember? Now, you came here for answers. I told you all I know. Have enough decency to thank me and leave. I don't need another lecture about what a lying, manipulative little Death Eater I was. In fact, I get tired of you all whispering about it behind my back." I finished, glaring at the Trio.
"Ginny," Harry moaned tiredly.
"No, let's get everything out in the open, once and for all." I said loudly, looking at Harry. "I've apologized. You've got what you want. If you're going to be confrontational, then leave." I said, pointing to the fireplace.
Hermione glared at me but sat down, folding her arms across her chest and holding her nose high in the air. Ron kept looking between us like he was watching a tennis match. Luna seemed bored, like she'd never noticed any tension in the room whatsoever. And Harry, as usual, looked uncomfortable.
Surprisingly, they spent an hour in the flat, talking about something other than Death Eaters. Things were fine between Harry, Luna and I. Yet, things between Ron, Hermione and I would require a lot of work.
(February 2004)
"Here, give this to the kid." George said, tossing me a new Joke Shop product of his.
I threw it back at him. "I'm not giving that to Aiden. Merlin knows what you've done to it."
Fred smirked, standing up beside George. "Don't be like that, Ginny. Besides, we like the kid. We wouldn't do anything to hurt him." He grinned slyly.
I pursed my lips. "No. Where's Fleur?" I asked impatiently. "She was supposed to be here by now."
As soon as the words left my mouth, Fleur and Victoire appeared in the doorway of another room inside the shop - the room that held a fireplace for others to Floo into. I stood, seeing Victoire run into my arms.
"Aunt Ninny!" She yelled, smiling widely at me.
I grinned. "Hi, chéri. You have dust on your nose." I said, watching the girl giggle at me.
"You look funny, Aunt Ninny." Victoire said, mentioning the glamour charm I was now wearing.
I smiled and kissed her forehead, setting her gently on her two feet. "Well, it's only for now." I said, winking at the child, who grabbed my hand.
"Sorry, it took some time to get her ready." Fleur explained airily. "Before we start shopping, we'll have to swing by Gringotts first."
I nodded and waved bye to the twins. Together, Victoire, Fleur and I headed down Main Street of Diagon Alley. It was hilarious to watch Victoire; the child wanted everything in sight. Thank Merlin we weren't far from Gringotts now. And then I heard it.
Screams.
My eyes widened, and my head whipped around. Masked Death Eaters. I drew my wand and looked to Fleur; she looked stunned and afraid.
"GO! APPARATE AWAY!" I yelled.
"I can't! Not with Victoire and I'm pregnant." She yelled over the explosions that were nearing closer to us.
"Run!" I said, picking up Victoire and placing her in Fleur's arms. "Go to Gringotts and Floo out of Diagon Alley." I said hurriedly, watching Victoire's tear-streaked face.
"Everything's going to be okay, sweetie. Be good for Mummy." I said comfortingly, hearing the girl scream as an explosion blew up a shop ten feet away from us.
I pointed my wand and focused with every fiber of my being, firing stunners every which way I could. I saw Fleur begin to run.
"FLEUR!" I yelled in horror. She was running the wrong way, or was she?
I ran to her side, still firing stunners. I didn't waste time seeing whether I'd stunned any of the robed men; instead, I grabbed Fleur's arm and pulled her into an alley behind one of the many shops. Victoire screamed and her cries frightened me more than anything at this moment.
Oh God, they were coming and there were too many of them. How was this even possible? Fleur's eyes widened as she drew her wand and Victoire continued to scream.
"Protego horribilis." I said shakily, seeing a shield expand between the robed Death Eaters and I.
I stood in front of Fleur and Victoire, whose tear-stained face and blue eyes made me stronger than ever. They would not hurt my niece; they would not hurt my family.
"The shield won't hold, Fleur!" I yelled, still facing the robed men. "You'll have to apparate!" I screamed desperately, feeling another curse deliver a powerful blow to my shield.
"The baby!" She cried and I trembled, shaking my head.
And then, at that moment, one of the Death Eaters stepped forward and somehow I knew what he was going to do. I didn't think; I flung myself in front of the Cruciatus meant for Fleur and little Victoire. Even throughout the hot, stabbing pains that seared throughout my body, I was still able to hear my niece's earth-shattering screams. And I knew, no matter what they did to me, I would be strong for her. Thank Merlin my shield held. I could still feel the robed men trying to bring it down as I stood, shielding Fleur and Victoire from their Cruciatus curses. When the pain dulled, I looked behind me at Fleur.
"GO! NOW!" I yelled.
Afterward, I immediately had to bite my lower lip to stop Victoire from hearing me scream again. It was another Cruciatus and, this time, I knew the shield wouldn't hold.
"GO!" I yelled, pushing myself away from Fleur and collapsing onto the ground.
Immediately, she disapparated. She couldn't take me, not without the risk of splinching herself or little Victoire. I could hear the robed Death Eaters jeering and that alone gave me the strength to cast another shield. Yet, I knew it wouldn't last for long and I was growing weak. And then, at that moment, Victoire's tear-stained face appeared in my mind. I don't think I'd ever seen her as clear as I was seeing her now. I could hear the masked men laughing, and I felt rage and power.
I pointed my wand at the cement floor in the alley, blasting the whole street in front of me apart. Now, I could hear them scream and I felt a vindictive pleasure that only made me think one thought and one thought alone: More. The rubble from the explosion landed everywhere, giving me enough time to stumble forward and beyond the deep crater I'd left in the alley. I didn't look down into it; I knew I'd see some of the robed men bodies there. I stumbled my way back onto Main Street, erecting another shield that would stop everything - with the exception of an Unforgivable. If only I could make it to Gringotts.
And the moment that thought rose to the surface of my mind, I was blasted forward (from behind) into a brick wall at the front of a shop. I'd barely missed flying through the window. I lay on my back, staring up at a smoke filled sky. This was it.
"Avada Kedav- "
"Stupefy," I heard someone yell. Remus.
I pushed myself off the ground, staggering to my feet as I leaned up against the brick wall of the shop I'd just been blasted into. All around me, I watched Aurors appear. And Remus stood in front of me, with a stunned Death Eater at his feet. I laughed hysterically, seeing Lupin frown. He was clearly puzzled by my strange reaction. He didn't know who I was, and I could tell he thought I was mad. I raised my wand and cast another shield, protecting both Remus and I. The Aurors were closer to Gringotts than we were. They were near us, but they weren't close enough and Death Eaters were beginning to close in on Remus and I. I staggered forward, feeling Lupin steady me with his arm around my waist.
"It's me, Remus - Ginny." I said, seeing his eyes widen in shock. He held me tighter to stop me from falling.
He couldn't say anything while trying to drag me backward to safety. He was trying to near the Aurors, who were beginning to rush forward to duel. My head snapped in front of me, seeing the robed Death Eaters running to meet the Aurors and they were running directly toward Remus and me. I pointed my wand in front of Remus and I, blasting Main Street to pieces. The ground shook like an earthquake as debris went flying everywhere, stopping the Aurors and the Death Eaters from advancing forward. The robed Death Eaters took the worst of the explosion; it had, after all, been meant to stop them. And it had worked.
Remus forced us backward. We were now directly in front of the Aurors, who looked at me in horror. I decided not to focus on them. The Death Eaters were nearing, and I didn't want the Aurors meshed in with them. I turned my head as I leaned up against Lupin, facing the horde of Aurors behind us. I could see Ron and Harry making their way forward. They stopped directly behind us.
"There's too many of them! We need for them to fall back." Ron yelled at Remus and Harry, firing curses at the nearing Death Eaters who were firing curses of their own.
"Get ready." I said weakly to Ron, seeing him frown confusedly at me.
"Get ready for what?" He asked, staring at me like I was insane.
I ignored him, stumbling forward away from Remus, who moved forward with me.
"Ginny-." He yelled, pushing me out of the way of a stray curse.
"Tell the others to put up Anti-Apparition Jinxes. NOW!" I yelled, pushing him behind me toward Harry and Ron.
I pointed my wand at the brick shops near us, causing another deadly explosion to destroy the last bit of street in front of me and the Aurors. I saw many Death Eaters blasted backward through the air, but still too many remained. I focused, for once, feeling my magic build within me. There was no doubt in my mind, I could do this or I'd die trying.
"Ignis Elementi."
Fire emitted from my wand and formed a barrier between the remaining Death Eaters and I, stopping them from advancing forward. I focused more, willing the fire to climb higher above the shops. Please, let them have put up the Anti-Apparition Jinxes already. Please.
"HURRY UP!" I yelled, knowing I couldn't make the fire last much longer.
After thirty seconds, the fire calmed until it was no more. The air was thick with smoke and the Aurors were advancing, overtaking the Death Eaters who could not escape.
"Ginny." Remus breathed from beside me, staring at me concernedly.
I swayed on the spot, but I could feel Remus's arm around my waist, stopping me from hitting the cement below. And no matter how hard I tried to fight the darkness that threatened to cloud my vision, I still saw darkness. And then I saw no more.
I opened my eyes, seeing an incredible white light that hurt my eyes. I groaned, choosing to close my eyes again.
"Ginny! She's awake!" I heard someone (Audrey?) yell.
I opened my eyes, allowing them to adjust to that horrid light. I was able to focus, seeing Audrey, Percy, Bill and Fleur standing beside me. I looked around, seeing Mum and Dad rush into the room. I sat up in the bed and slowly shook my head.
"Ginny, are you okay, dear?" Mum asked, her wide honey eyes fixed worriedly on me. "I'll call the Healer."
"No, Mum, I'm fine." I said quickly. "Percy, get my things. I'm leaving, now." I said, slinging my legs over the side of the bed.
My mother's gaze became stern and she easily forced my back onto the mattress again.
"You are doing no such thing. Ridiculous, talking about leaving. And in your condition." She admonished, her gaze daring me to open my mouth to argue.
"Mum, you don't understand. If I've missed work- "
"That does NOT matter right now," Mum yelled, giving me a hard, blazing look.
"Don't worry, Ginny." Percy began, trying to ease the tension. "I was able to contact Aiden and he said he'd tell your boss that you're hospitalized. Everything's fine. How are you feeling?" He asked concernedly.
I frowned. "What are you talking about? I'm fine. And why are you all looking at me like that?" They looked at me like I was insane. Bill spoke.
"Ginny," He said breathlessly. "The Healers said you were hit with over two Unforgivables. Don't you feel…tired?"
I laughed, scaring them all. I sighed, not really wanting them to react like that. "Bill, I've been hit with much worse, trust me. Look, I'm okay. Seriously, I can go home."
Mum glared at me, daring me to move one inch at all. I shrunk away from her, thinking that perhaps it would be wise to stay still until Mum calmed.
"The Healers won't let you leave." Audrey said softly. "They want to keep you for tests."
I sighed, staring at the wall rather than the others. I didn't need them all looking at me like I was a freak. And then, I remembered.
"Victoire." I yelled, looking wide-eyed at Fleur. "The baby?"
"She's fine, thanks to you." Fleur said gratefully, giving me a forced smile. "And the baby's fine too."
I sighed in relief and nodded, ignoring the way both Bill and Fleur looked at me. Why couldn't they all just leave me alone?
"Ginny, dear, you should rest. We'll leave and let you- "
"Mum, I don't need to rest anymore, seriously. I've rested for how many days now? How long have I been here?"
"Nearly two days." Dad replied, his gaze fixed on me in deep thought.
"That's more than enough. Mum, please, make the healers- "
"No," She said firmly, silencing me with a look. "Rest."
And with that said, she forced everyone out of the room. I had nothing else to do in a huge room all by myself.
So, I did the only thing I could- I went to sleep, yet again.
(A day Later)
"Please tell me I can go now." I groaned, looking up at Percy, who'd come to visit me during his lunch hour.
He smiled. "I honestly think they'll release you today." He said knowingly, sounding pompous.
I sighed. "Thank goodness. I don't like it. Too many visitors…too many people looking at me like I'm some bloody freak of nature or something."
Percy sat down on my bed and gave me a disapproving look, reminding me of Mum. "Well, get ready because Ron, Harry, Hermione and Luna will be visiting too."
"Uh, when-."
"Ginny, you're awake." I heard Harry say from the door. He entered, holding hands with Luna. Ron, Hermione and Remus came in behind them.
I looked at Percy and glared. Percy smiled, or was he smirking? "It's not my fault this happened, Ginny. Anyway, you should play nicely." He said amusedly, and I wanted to slap him.
"What's wrong?" Harry asked with a frown. Before I could respond, Luna answered.
"She doesn't want us here." Luna said bluntly, smiling serenely at me. I glared at her.
"It's not that." I sighed.
"Then, what is it?" Ron asked, scowling at me.
"She wants to leave." Hermione and Remus answered. I was getting very irritated now.
"Can everyone stop answering things for me?" I grumbled.
"How are you feeling?" Ron asked, sitting down in a chair near my bed.
"Fine." I spat. Ron's eyebrows raised and he looked at Percy, who shook his head. "Where's is my wand?" I asked aloud.
"Molly has it." Hermione answered, a small smile on her face. I groaned and closed my eyes.
"If she thinks that can stop me from blowing up this hospital-". I mumbled.
"Ginny, calm down. The healers are going to release you in an hour or two. They've finished with their tests and you'll know everything. Then, you can go." Remus said good-naturedly, inclining his head at me.
I sighed and leaned back against the bed. "How many of them were you able to arrest?" I asked distractedly, looking at Harry without really seeing him.
"There looked to be seventy; we caught forty." He said uneasily. "You did good." He finished humorlessly.
I shook my head and frowned. "They weren't Death Eaters." I said evenly.
Harry frowned. Remus stood and came closer to my bed, and Ron looked at me with confusion.
"Ginny, you saw them." Remus began. "They were Death Eaters. What else could they have been?"
"Look, they don't fight like Death Eaters." I said irately. "Death Eaters would've instantly went for the kill, rather than firing Cruciatus Curses at Fleur and Victoire. Whoever they are, they aren't really Death Eaters. They're impersonators."
"Kingsley wants to talk to you, Ginny." Ron said slowly, looking at Remus rather than me.
"Figures." I said sarcastically. Lupin's gaze fell on me and I sighed.
"Look, I just want out of here." I said quietly, staring at my hands rather than at Remus. "I'll talk to Shacklebolt. Tell me, is that the reason why I have a room all to myself, because the Minister wants to pay the former Death Eater a visit." I finished acerbically.
Ron groaned. "Ginny, give it a rest." He snapped.
"Not until you answer." I said, glaring at Ron.
"Your picture was in the Daily Prophet." Ron said slowly. "You were wearing the glamour - dark-haired girl, blue eyes. Well, it seems that people recognize that girl. They…want to meet you again."
"And that's why I've been kept here for so long and against my will." I drawled. "Who came forward? I never tortured anyone using that glamour - I think."
"Ginny," Harry said cautiously, looking at Ron. I grinned.
"Only a joke, Harry." I said lightly, winking at Luna. "I can't believe I was stupid enough to use the same glamour again. You'd think I'd've learned by now."
"Mother will be here soon. I suggest you take the time to get ready." Percy said briskly, standing. He ushered the others out of the room and left me alone by myself.
(An hour later)
I was dressed, getting ready to leave St. Mungos. Mum, Dad, Bill, Fleur, Harry and Ron were the only ones here with me now. I wouldn't be going home until tomorrow, and I wouldn't be returning to work until the day afterward.
"Ms. Weasley, before you leave, we came to discuss your test results." The Healer said.
I frowned and looked up at her. "Okay. Is something wrong?"
The Healer looked around at the others awkwardly. "They're alright. Tell me."
The Healer nodded and cleared her throat. "Ms. Weasley, the tests indicate that you've endured an excessive amount of severe trauma to your…body in the past. Is that correct?"
I frowned. "Yeah, I guess." I said stupidly, not understanding where she was going with this.
The Healer nodded. "By severe trauma, I mean the Cruciatus Curse, among a string of many others."
I gulped, remembering my spying days and the early mornings I'd return to Hogwarts, bleeding and bruised. "Yes, and?"
She looked at me pityingly and I sighed, getting frustrated with all of this.
"Perhaps, if you'd received treatment earlier, we could've helped- "
"What's wrong with my daughter?" Mum asked impatiently, rounding on the Healer.
"The trauma she endured over the years will make it nearly impossible for her to conceive." The Healer finished very business-like, staring sadly at me.
The room quieted and I hated the way they looked at me.
"Is that it?" I asked nonchalantly, seeing the Healer's eyes widen in surprise.
"You do not want to attempt any of the available treatments." She said slowly. "There are things that can be done that may help- " She began, but I raised my hand.
"No. Thank you for everything you've done." I said dismissively.
"Ginny," Mum cried. "You have to try- "
I looked to the Healer. "That'll be all, thank you." I said, watching her leave the room.
I then turned around and faced my mom. "Mum, I'm fine. This is okay. Now, where are my clothes?"
"It is NOT okay." She yelled, staring wide-eyed at me. I flinched. "You don't w-want children?" She asked, as if the thought itself was inconceivable.
"Mum, if it happens, it happens. If it doesn't, then it's not meant to be." I said gently, holding her hand.
"The least you could do is try." Fleur said forcefully, standing beside Mum.
"Actually, I don't want to try." I said lightly, standing up to leave.
"Gin, what do you mean you don't want to try?" Ron asked, staring at me like I was mad.
"Can we just go?" I snapped, getting annoyed with this topic.
"No, we can talk about this here. Ron, shut the door." Mum yelled, staring at me with wide eyes. When the door shut, I sat back down on the bed and looked at my mother.
"Ginny, if this can be helped, then why won't you- "
"I told you already; it's not what I want." I said slowly, trying to get her to see. "I have everything I want: A life, a family and a career. That's good enough for me. In fact, it's more than I deserve. Now, I'm leaving. You all can stay, if you like."
I stood and placed a different glamour on my face. Then, I left the room, not wanting to hear anything else about my inability to have children.
(The Burrow/Nighttime)
"Can't sleep?" Dad asked, pulling out a chair at the table next to me. I nodded.
"Yea, I just can't seem to stop thinking." I mumbled, drinking a warm glass of milk, rather than looking at him. "I'm surprised you're talking to me."
Dad sighed. "I've wanted to talk to you for a while now. I just didn't know what to say beyond an apology, perhaps." He said quietly, staring at me.
I smiled a small smile at him. "You should never apologize to me- "
"She was right." Dad said, stopping me. "Tristan, I think, was right."
I shook my head. "Dad, you and Mum are the best parents anyone could have. You loved me-"
"Yeah, we love you. We always have." Dad said genuinely, his eyes fixed on mine. "But we didn't always show it the way we should've." He said softly, his voice filled with regret.
"Dad, that's not true-."
"Yes, it is." He said sharply. "We loved you but we let our distrust, our prejudices, overshadow that love. We looked at you and saw our daughter, but we'd see a Slytherin and we just couldn't understand. We couldn't see beyond that sometimes. I tried, I really did- "
"Dad, I lied to you and Mum- "
"And we knew." He said slowly. "On some level, we knew something was wrong but we never knew how wrong things were." He finished, his voice more burdened than anything.
"Of course you would've never known. I lied to everyone." I said imploringly. "I never meant to hurt you and Mum like this; in fact, I never meant for you all to find out period. I was wrong; I lied. But I don't regret it because, in a way, I was able to help keep this family safe."
"But at the expense of having a family of your own one day." He finished quietly. "Fleur told us how you protected her and Victoire. She said you didn't think-."
"Of course I didn't think. I never do, not really." I said gently, offering him a small smile. "And I don't want thank-yous for that. Victoire should've never had to see that. I wish I could've thought of a better way to get them out of there sooner-."
"Ginny, you can't change the subject." Dad said firmly, giving me a knowing look. "You say you don't regret what you became, but look at what its cost you: A family of your own one day.
I shook my head. "That's not certain. Besides, Bill and the others will have more children than I can spoil." I said, smiling at Dad.
"Ginny, this isn't a joke." He said, his voice loud. He breathed, trying to calm himself down again. "Who tortured you? I want to know everything."
"I don't remember everything." I lied.
"And I suppose that's the real reason why you never sleep at night. Don't lie to me, Ginny. I want to know. I'm strong enough to bear it. Tell me!" The kitchen stayed silent for the longest.
I shook my head. "I caused more fear and terror than anything." I said quietly. "I never tried to hurt anyone other than the Death Eaters, but I brought pain to people. I made mothers cry; I watched as fathers shielded their children and failed. I even killed Doris Crockford. Is that what you wanted to hear? Because that's what you love. There's nothing admirable in anything I did; in fact, all of it was selfishness."
There was silence before Dad spoke again. "Who tortured you?"
I shrugged. "I don't remember. Good night, Dad." I said gently, standing up to leave.
"Ginny," Dad said softly; it was his tone that made me stiffen and look back at him.
"You're my daughter." Dad said strongly. "I'll always love you, no matter what you do."
I nodded and walked up the stairs, afterward closing the door to my room. When I laid down in bed, I stared up at the ceiling feeling restless. I don't know how long it took me to notice that a delicate teardrop had flowed down the length of my cheek. I touched it and smiled, realizing that the tear was a happy tear, not one from desperation, anger or bitterness. I had finally experienced one tear of joy, and I had finally experienced true warmth in my childhood home.
It had been years - twelve years since I felt like this. But now, I finally felt like I was truly home, once and for all.
(Mid February 2004)
"Are you feeling better?" Tristan asked worriedly, smiling at me.
I smiled. "I'm great. Hey - after I leave the lab Friday - do you want to go and get a bite to eat? Just you and me. We haven't really talked in a while."
"Yea, it's a date." Tristan said comically, smiling widely at me beside Sam.
"Rude!" Sam groaned playfully, winking at Tristan.
"Guys," Aiden said quietly, looking at us all. We looked up, seeing his blank face.
"What's wrong?" I asked seriously, never seeing him like this.
"I got in!" He said softly. Then, he held up a letter. "I got into NYU."
My face broke out into a smile and I immediately enveloped him in a tight hug. Aiden's face was wide in a grin and he lifted me bridle style.
"Put me down!" I yelled. "Hey, do you think you can handle New York?" I asked, still smiling at him.
Aiden smirked. "Can New York handle me, is the question?" He said arrogantly.
"What's going on in here?" Percy asked, appearing in the fireplace. I smiled.
"Aiden got into the college he wanted." I said happily, beaming at the teen with pride.
"So, I assume you won't be coming home this weekend." Percy drawled pompously. I nodded.
Percy's attention turned to Aiden. "Congratulations and the best of luck, Aiden." He said, disappearing from the fireplace.
I smiled at the teen. "Well, it seems we have a party to plan. Now, have you called Alexa?"
Aiden beamed. "She was the first person to know." He said dismissively.
We spent the rest of that Thursday evening planning the details of our weekend party.
(Late February 2004)
"Aunt Ninny, play with me." Victoire whined, pulling on my hand.
I smiled down at the girl. "Let me first finish talking with your Mummy, Daddy and Uncle Remus. Then, I'll spend the rest of the evening playing with you and Teddy."
I saw Victoire nod excitedly and run off to play with Ted. I sighed and looked up at Fleur.
"You're not showing one bit." I said thoughtfully, biting my lower lip. "Audrey isn't either." I shrugged.
Fleur smiled a sad smile at me. "Ginny, I think you should at least try-."
"Fleur, don't." I said tiredly, silencing her. She nodded and looked at Bill.
"Ginny, when are you going to talk to Kingsley?" Bill asked, frowning. "You can't keep putting him off."
I nodded. "I'm not trying to, honestly. I owe him a Life Debt. It's just so much has happened. Can I meet with him Sunday?" I asked, looking at Remus now.
"That probably would work better for Kingsley." He said slowly. I nodded.
"There haven't been anymore…raids, have there?" I asked.
"No, not yet anyway." Lupin said gratefully; he looked so exhausted. "We're hoping the whole Diagon Alley incident sent a message to the others."
I nodded. "Maybe." Remus frowned.
"You think they'll attack again." He said quietly. I looked at Bill, Fleur and finally back at Lupin.
I nodded slowly. "Yea." I said simply. "Just be careful. Don't leave the home by yourself, that includes you too Bill. Make sure you're not being followed, because Fidelius Charms can only go so far. Maybe all of this will settle down, but be safe." I said seriously, looking pointedly at Fleur, who paled.
"Ginny-." Bill began.
"I'm going to go play with my niece now." I said over him, standing up to leave the table.
I wanted no part in their world and that included their wars. I'd done enough. I'd do no more.
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