Chapter 26
"What's your hurry?" Harry asked as he watched Ron rush to change out of his quidditch robes after practice.
"Hermione said she would help me with my potions homework." Ron started stuffing his robes into his school bag.
"Right. You seem to have a lot of potions homework these days." Harry smirked a little.
Ron's ears turned red but he just gave Harry a grin. "It's been a nightmare. I'm just lucky to have Hermione help me through it."
"She must be pretty good holding your hand." Harry laughed as Ron realized what Harry was talking about.
"Yeah she's good at many things if you know what I mean." Ron stared him down this time and laughed when Harry flushed.
"Touché." Harry laughed. "Well better go study." He waved his hands to shoo Ron off. Ron gave him a shove and left the changing room.
Harry returned to the common room he went to the dorm and put his Firebolt in his trunk. He carried his school bag down to the common room to finish his charms essay.
"Mind if I sit with you?" Harry asked Ginny.
"No." Ginny pulled some books out of the way and Harry sat down looking around.
"Where are Ron and Hermione?" Harry asked.
"Off snogging somewhere." Ginny said without looking up as if she was discussing the weather. Harry snorted as he pulled out his charms book.
"I haven't really seen much of those two." Harry thought aloud. "Except for class but we haven't really talked. Not like we used to."
"Hermione has noticed too." Ginny looked up. "I think Ron has but with him it's hard to tell."
"I've been busy but not any busier than other years." Harry frowned. "I guess I get a bit caught up in myself to think about it." He admitted.
"It takes a big person to admit something like that." Ginny gazed at him. "Most people just say they're too busy and leave it at that."
"Well, a person needs to take stock of their shortcomings. Especially since I don't have Snape telling me what they are." Harry shrugged.
Ginny leaned on her hand and smiled at him. "And what are your shortcomings?"
"What? You want a list?" Harry felt this conversation was getting strange.
"Just a couple." Ginny grinned.
"Well, I can be kind of moody." Harry said thoughtfully. "And stubborn. Is that enough?'
"One more." Ginny insisted.
Harry thought about it for a moment. "I'm not sure what else. You could check with Snape. He'd give you a long list."
"Want me to tell you one?" Ginny eyes sparkled Harry noticed.
"I was afraid it would come to this. Okay what have you noticed about me that irritates you?" Harry gave her a lopsided smile.
"You can be as tightly shut as that trunk of your mum's or you spill your guts in a burst of anger." Ginny snickered.
"Too much information or not enough, eh?" Harry laughed then countered. "Alright Ms. Weasley what are your shortcomings?"
"I don't have any." Ginny said as if it was common knowledge and went back to her homework.
"I know. You probably snore and drool in your sleep." Harry teased trying to get a rise out of her.
"Oh Harry, you'll have to do better than that. I do have six older brothers you know." Ginny turned a page.
"I'm way out of my league with them. So I'll concede defeat." Harry threw up his hands.
"You sure gave up easily." Ginny chuckled.
"Loose the battle win the war." Harry muttered then a little louder. "I'm saving my strength for bigger disputes."
Ginny frowned at her homework. "I hope Hermione gets back soon. She said she'd look over my potions work. I don't know how she does it all."
"I would offer to look at it but you probably want the right answers." Harry said writing his way down a roll of parchment. Ginny laughed and set aside her potions work. She rummaged through her books and found Ancient Runes. She gave a deep sigh and opened the book. Harry glanced at her now and then. Occasionally catching her eye and they would both smile at each other. It felt strange to sit with Ginny knowing he would be going to the dance with her in two weeks time and their relationship would change whether they wanted it to or not. Strange but nice at the same time.
Out of the corner of his eye, Harry saw Crookshanks carrying something toward the boys' staircase. "Hey! Hold on." Harry bolted from his seat and chased the ginger cat up to his dorm.
"What does he have?" Ginny had followed him up the stairs. "Yuck. A rat." She wrinkled her nose.
"Why did he bring it up here?" Harry stalked over to the dead rat Hermione's cat had put near the runespoor's bed.
"Hisss. He gotsss it for us." Giza's head slithered up flicking her tongue. "A light snack."
"Did you ask Crookshanks to catch you a rat?" Harry asked.
"Yesss. Nice beast, likes to kill rats." Hapa watched Giza clamp her jaws on the dead rodent.
"You speak cat?" Harry glanced at Crookshanks cleaning his paw on Harry's bed.
"Speak? Cat language is much more than sounds. Humans are blind to the body's talk." Hapa said.
"Right, I guess if Crookshanks doesn't mind I don't. Enjoy." Harry turned away from the feeding serpent. Ginny stared at him, waiting for an explanation. He smiled and started to tell her when a sharp pain went through his scar. He clutched his forehead.
"Your scar?" Ginny asked concerned.
"Yeah, I haven't felt anything for a while now. Nothing this strong." Harry leaned against his bed, trying to block the pain with little success. Harry closed his eyes and rubbed his cool hand across the scar resigned to wait for the pain to ease. Another, softer hand stroked the length of his scar. Like magic the pain vanished. Harry's eyes snapped open to see Ginny in front of him.
"How did you do that?" Harry said softly.
"What?" Ginny dropped her hand as if she had done something wrong. The pain came back like a stabbing knife. Harry winced and gritted his teeth. "What did I do?" Ginny now sounded worried.
"The pain. You stopped the pain." Harry squinted at her. "How did you do that?" he repeated.
"I don't know." Ginny shook her head then hesitantly she gently placed her fingers on his scar again. The relief in Harry's face showed her the pain had vanished again. For a long moment they stared into each other's eyes. Harry gazed in wonder at her then a smile crept on to his face.
"Do you think I can convince Ron you need to stay by my bed in case my scar hurts in the night?" Harry asked.
Ginny blushed and then giggled. "I think he'd have to put a full body bind curse on you before he would allow that." Then her face sobered. "I wonder why the pain stops when I touch your scar."
Harry didn't really hear her. He was too busy noticing the intense brown of her eyes, flecked with highlights of gold. His gaze dropped to her lips and he bent closer. Harry looked back into her eyes as if to ask permission. Ginny seemed frozen but her eyes brightened with surprise. As he lowered his head Harry felt her breath stop. His lips just brushed hers when Ron's voice and footsteps thundered up the stairs. Hastily they broke apart. Ginny moved away and the pain in Harry's scar returned. Grasping his forehead Harry leaned against the bed again.
"What are you doing up here Ginny? You're not supposed to be in the boys' dorms." Ron glanced back and forth at the two of them. "Harry?" He had noticed his friend's pain. Ginny told him about Crookshanks bring the rat to the runespoor. Hesitantly she told him about Harry's scar hurting but nothing more. Taking her lead Harry didn't say anything about her touch affecting his scar.
"I want to catch Hermione before she goes to bed." Ginny said. "Good night Harry…Ron." She blushed for almost forgetting to say goodnight to her own brother.
"Are you alright Harry?" Ron asked. "Need any help?"
"I'll be alright. Could you get my stuff from the common room? I left my homework and bag down there." Harry went to his wardrobe still holding his forehead and pulled out pajamas.
"Sure no problem." Ron gazed at his friend for a moment then hurried down the stairs.
In bed Harry tried to block out the still burning scar with little success. Harry let his mind open since closing it didn't seem to help. A dark moldy wall filled his vision for a moment then he turned away pacing with anger.
"It is all set? He suspects nothing?" Voldemort seethed.
"No my Lord. All will go as ordered." Malfoy assured him.
"If you let Harry Potter ruin my plan this time. You will receive the full power of my displeasure. Understand Lucius?" Harry could feel the absolute fury in Voldemort words as the agony intensified.
"Yes, my Lord. I will not fail you." Lucius dropped to his knees before him.
"See that you don't. Go." Voldemort waved his spidery hand at the figure before him.
Quickly Harry pulled away from the dark wizard's mind. He didn't want Voldemort to know he had heard anything. Gasping and sweating Harry lay frozen as the pain ebbed little by little. Finally he managed to sit up in bed. He had to tell someone.
Still shaking Harry pulled on his dressing gown and staggered down the spiral stairs. He pushed open the portrait and climbed out. His mind confused with pain, Harry headed down the hall not really having a goal in mind. His feet led the way toward the transfiguration classroom but half way there, Harry stopped. McGonagall wouldn't be there now, it was the middle of the night. He stood as if stunned and blinked at the brightness of a torch in its bracket. Harry turned to go back to McGonagall quarters.
"Potter." A cold sneering voice drifted up the hall. Snape smirking face came into view. "What are you doing out of bed at this time of night Potter? Fifty points from Gryffindor and a week of detention."
"I've got to tell someone." Harry winced as too spoke too loud. "Voldemort is planning something." He leaned on the wall rubbing his forehead then repeated. "I have to tell someone."
"What are you blathering about Potter?" Snape tried to sound unconcerned but failed. "Come with me." A harsh grip took a hold of Harry's arm. Snape led him down to the stone gargoyle and spoke the password. He shoved Harry onto the moving steps and then followed. Snape knocked on the headmaster's door and then entered.
No light shone from any of the torches and the embers in the fireplace glowed softly. Snape pushed Harry into the chair in front of Dumbledore's desk. "Wait here." He snapped and turned to the fireplace. He groped on the mantle for a handful of floo powder and threw it in the dieing fire. It blazed green and Snape stepped into the emerald flames. "Dumbledore's room." Snape began to spin and then disappeared.
The darkness of the office felt soothing to Harry's eyes. Despite his irritation with Dumbledore, the presence of the great wizard still lingered and calmed Harry as he waited. A moment later Dumbledore appeared in the flames and stepped out of the fireplace, followed closely by Snape. The headmaster raised his wand and the light level in the room increased. Harry put up a hand to shield his eyes from the glare.
"It was better the other way." Harry blinked through watering eyes. Dumbledore dimmed the torches. "Thanks." He sighed.
"What have you heard Harry." Dumbledore asked watching him closely. Harry told him about Voldemort's conversation he overheard. "Voldemort did not feel you were there?" The old wizard questioned.
Thinking Harry glanced at Snape who stood off to the side near the door. His face showed no reaction to what Harry had heard. "No. He didn't. Voldemort was in a rage. I think it sort of shielded me from him." Harry saw Dumbledore's gaze flick to Snape.
"Who is Voldemort after?" Harry asked looking back to Snape who flinched at the name.
"We can only guess Harry." Dumbledore said thoughtfully. "Karkaroff comes to mind. Perhaps the Death Eaters have caught up to him." He sighed.
"Or you." Harry gazed pointedly at Snape. The swallow face showed no emotion to his suggestion but Harry saw a convulsive swallow.
"Perhaps." Snape said softly. "But I doubt it Potter. My allegiance has not been challenged. I am his spy on the headmaster. He needs me here."
Now Harry stared almost in shock at the potion master, never had Snape said so many words to him without a sneer in his voice. "I hope you're right Professor." As much as he hated Snape, Harry didn't want him to fall into Voldemort's trap.
"Professor Snape, would you see Harry back to Gryffindor tower?" Dumbledore asked still studying Harry closely.
"I'm okay. I can manage Headmaster." Harry stood up but Dumbledore's stare had met Snape's
"Certainly, Headmaster." Snape nodded. "Come on Potter." He opened the office door and gestured for Harry to precede him. Harry had no choice so he nodded to Dumbledore and left the office.
It was the strangest walk through the castle that Harry could remember. Neither one of them spoke but oddly Harry felt protected by Snape's escort. At the portrait of the fat lady Harry bid the potions master goodnight. The man merely nodded and left without a word. Harry watched the lean back disappear wondering if Snape was bothered by his vision of Voldemort.
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With the Holiday fast approaching Harry began to feel nervous with the upcoming dance on Saturday. True he hadn't stepped on McGonagall's feet at the last dance lesson but he felt a bit awkward. McGonagall tried to assure him all teenage boys feel that way, still Harry wished he had learned to dance sooner.
Since it was Christmas, the dance would start with a feast at seven o'clock. By Saturday afternoon the great hall had been closed off to be decorated and many of the girls went off to get ready for the dance. At six o'clock Harry and Ron went up to the dormitory to change into their dress robes.
While Harry hesitated over which dress robes to wear, Ron, Seamus, Dean and Neville pulled on their dress robes. Glancing nervously up to see what the other guys were wearing Harry grinned at Ron's new robes. The royal blue material suited Ron's complexion and red hair.
"What's taking you so long?" Ron asked tugging at his collar.
"I'm trying to decide which robes to wear." Harry opened the box with his scarlet robes.
"What do you mean?" Ron came over to see. "Whoa! Outstanding, Harry!"
"You like it?" Harry pulled the robes out and held them up. "You don't think it's a bit flashy?"
"No way," Ron assured him. "Put them on. We'll be the judges." Ron indicated the rest of the six-year boys.
Slowly Harry slipped into the shimmering robes. Low mummers of approval filled the room before he looked up from fastening the front. "Well?"
"Excellent Harry." Seamus whistled.
"Never seen anything like it." Dean marveled.
"You look great Harry." Neville reached out and felt the sleeve.
"Brilliant Harry." Ron agreed. "Four out of four. You can't beat that."
"You could…" Seamus started then changed his mind.
"What?" Harry glanced down to see if something was wrong then back at the other teens. Ron and the others gave each other an agreeing glance.
"I think it would look better if you shaved Harry." Ron braved. "You really don't have enough to be called a beard. It just makes your face look, well, dirty."
"Shave?" Harry reached up and felt his chin and jaw then hurried to the mirror. Sure enough what Ron said was true; a gray shadow covered his lower face in a haphazard way. "I don't have a razor."
"What?" Ron looked puzzled. "Just use the shaving charm."
"The what?" Harry turned to see the other boys' nods, telling him once again his lack of wizarding world general information was showing.
"Didn't anyone ever…?" Ron face dropped in realization, Harry had no one to tell him anything. "I'll show you. It can be a little trick. Fred slipped once and shaved off his left eyebrow. Although I think he kind of liked the look."
"What do I do?" Harry felt a surge of panic. What would he look like if he appeared at the dance with one eyebrow?
"Don't worry. Why don't I do it for you?" Ron suggested. "Conjure a chair and sit down." Harry quickly conjured a barber's chair and took a seat.
"Didn't your Uncle ever teach you how to shave?" Dean asked. "My dad taught me two years ago."
Harry snorted. "Last summer my Uncle brought home this cheap plastic razor for me to use. I tried it once and cut myself so many times I thought I'd need a blood rejuvenation potion. So I decided just to annoy him I'd just leave any stubble."
"Okay, Harry lean back and hold still." Ron said. He shook his wand a little and said. "Excorio." A blue glow came from the tip of Ron's wand. As Ron carefully laid the tip on Harry's cheek and drew the wand over his skin, a warm fuzzy feeling followed the wand tip. After five minutes Ron said. "That's it. You're done. Take a look."
Harry went to the mirror and felt the smooth chin and cheeks. "Thanks Ron. I owe you."
"Naw, Harry, he doesn't want his sister getting stubble burn." Seamus laughed. There was a general snicker from the other boys, even Dean Thomas. Harry felt a warmth creep into his cheeks now. "See you at the dance. I've got to meet up with Susan Bones from Hufflepuff." Dean and Neville followed Seamus down the stairs.
"I thought it would be cool you dating my sister…" Ron started sheepishly.
"Having mixed feelings?" Harry grinned.
"More like scrambled." Ron snorted. "I really don't know what I'll do if I catch you two kissing."
Harry snorted back. "If you would have come up to the dorm a couple seconds later the other day we'd both know." Ron's eyes grew big. The mixture of emotions flashed across his freckled face. Humor won out and he laughed.
"Alright, I know it is inevitable." Ron nodded then soberly he said. "Just don't hurt her Harry." His brow furrowed.
"Never," Harry met his best friend's eyes. "Ron, I have too much respect for Ginny and for your whole family to do anything that would jeopardize our trust of each other." He held out his hand to Ron. Ron grasped if firmly and clapped Harry's shoulder.
"Thanks, Harry that means a lot." Ron said. "Well, we better get downstairs. Can't have the women waiting for us."
"Hang on; I want to get my camera." Harry went to his trunk and took out the magical camera Lupin had given him for his birthday. "Okay, let's go." They hurried down to the Gryffindor common room, where it was much like the night of the Yule ball when the Tri-Wizard Tournament was held with many different color robes milling around waiting.
Parvati came down the girls' stairs with Lavender. Both paused at the bottom to gaze in Harry's direction. Their stare began to make Harry feel uncomfortable so he messed with the camera's setting but ignoring them didn't seem to work.
"Wow Harry." Lavender said. "You look…wonderful."
"I'll say." Parvati sighed. "Save me at least one dance?" She looked at him pathetically.
"Well, I…" Harry's attention drew back to the girl's staircase. Hermione and Ginny descended gracefully. The pair took Harry's breath away. Wearing gold beaded silk robes, Hermione looked like a queen striding toward Ron. But his jaw dropped open as Harry gazed at Ginny smiling shyly as she walked toward him. Harry stepped forward past Parvati and Lavender. Her emerald velvet robes swirled around her as she came to a stop in front of him.
"You look beautiful, Ginny." Harry felt the word was horribly lacking but couldn't come up with anything better.
Ginny flushed and grinned. "Thanks. So do you! I love your robes Harry."
"Thanks." Harry laughed. "Oh, before we go, let's get some pictures." He looked around and spotted Mark Evens. "Hey Mark? Would you take some pictures for us?"
"Sure Harry." Mark grinned. Harry showed him how to work the camera and the two couples posed for the first year.
"Thanks Mark. Could you run the camera back up to my dorm and just set it on one of the trunks?" Harry asked and the boy nodded. "Thanks."
"Have fun." Mark waved as the four left the common room.
After helping Ginny from the portrait hole Harry offered her his arm. "My lady?" He gave her a slight bow. Ginny giggled and slipped her hand around his arm. Ron offered his arm to Hermione and the four went down to the great hall.
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Crystal clear icicles dangled in the air above round tables in the great hall when two couples entered, following the crowd. The twelve Christmas trees stood along the walls twinkling with fairy lights and sparkling ornaments. Each table had a center piece of holly and ivy with a candle in the center.
Hermione spotted Neville with Luna Lovegood sitting at a table. "Let's sit with them." She suggested. Everybody agreed and they make their way over to the table.
"Hi, Luna. Hi Neville. Can we sit with you two?" Hermione asked.
"Sure." Neville grinned and glanced at Luna.
"Please do." Luna said smiling dreamily. She wore shocking neon green robes of some lacy material. But somehow Harry thought that color looked good on her as he held the chair out for Ginny to sit down.
Once seated, they watched the rest of the students file into the great hall. Draco Malfoy entered with Pansy Parkinson on his arm. Then Cho Chang walked through the door in periwinkle blue robes with Michael Corner. Harry turned to Ginny and saw her watching the couple proceed into the hall.
"Any regrets?" Harry asked smiling.
"None. You?" Ginny returned the grin.
"Not a one." Harry answered truthfully. Cho Chang didn't interest him in the least anymore. Harry didn't even bother looking back to see where Cho had sat down.
"I can't believe the holidays are here already." Hermione said.
"Yeah." Ron sighed.
"Oh Ron stop. You'll have fun at my house. I promise you." Hermione rolled her eyes.
"It is going to seem strange without you two around for Christmas." Harry said then seeing Neville and Luna's questioning looks he added. "Ron is staying with Hermione this year, a muggle house."
"I don't think I'd have the nerve." Neville whispered.
"I've always have wanted to." Luna admitted. "Muggles are fascinating."
"I bet they are." Ron said in a forced pleasant voice.
When the Great Hall finally filled the teacher filed in to take their seats at two large round tables at the end of the hall. Dumbledore stood up, wearing magnificent metallic silver robes and said.
"Welcome. I hope you all find this an agreeable substitute for Hogsmeade visits. You'll discover many of the cuisines you would find there are here tonight. So enjoy!" Dumbledore sat down and food appeared on all the tables.
Harry passed a platter of steak to Ginny who took a small piece and passed it on. As tempting as it was to stuff himself on all the delicious food in front of him, Harry knew he wouldn't feel like dancing much on a full stomach. So Harry refused seconds when the platter came around again. After the main course came pudding. The elaborately decorated cakes were accented with many of Honeydukes best sweets. Ginny pulled a large cracker with Harry and matching solid gold bracelets popped out. Giving her grinning glances, Harry fastened the bracelet on to her wrist and she returned the favor.
After the meal was finished Dumbledore stood and indicated the rest of the hall should do the same. Like had done for the Yule Ball the headmaster with one sweep of his wand moved the tables to the edge of the room then raised a platform for the band. In trooped the Weird Sisters and soon music filled the great hall.
"May I have this dance?" Harry bowed to Ginny and held out his hand. She giggled and put her hand in his. He led her out onto the dance floor and swallowing nervously Harry took her in his arms. In his head McGonagall voice rose. "Listen to the music Potter." Harry tried but the moment he looked down at Ginny everything else seemed to fade into the background like fog. His heart swelled with a tightness strange to him. She was so beautiful Harry thought as he started dancing around the hall with her. To his surprise he didn't feel awkward in Ginny's arms. Their moments never seemed to get in the way of each other.
"You're a good dancer." Ginny smiled at him.
"I had a very patient teacher. But you're pretty good yourself." Harry told her. "Did Fred and George teach you?"
"Oh no. My mum and dad. They love to dance. When I was little I'd stand on dad's feet while he and Mom dance." Ginny reminisced.
"I stood on my teacher's feet quite a bit too. But I don't think she care for it much." Harry chuckled.
"Who?" Ginny asked.
"I'm not telling." Harry shook his head.
"Oh come on. Tell me." Ginny insisted.
"You can guess but I'm not telling you." Harry finally found something he could tease Ginny with.
"Hermione?"
"Nope. Not even warm." Harry felt a couple brush past them. Ron and Hermione looked their way and grinned.
"Your Aunt?" Ginny guessed.
"Yeah right." Harry snorted.
"Tell me." Ginny obviously didn't like not knowing.
"I'll tell you after the dance if you can't guess." Harry conceded.
"You better." Ginny warned.
"Or what?" Harry challenged leaning closer touching her nose with his.
"You really don't want to know." Ginny gave him a wicked smile.
"Oh, that's really scary." Harry cringed. "You sound like Fred and George."
"I am my brothers' sister." Ginny stopped dancing. Harry just then realized the song had ended. They clapped for the band. The next song was a fast paced and Harry and Ginny quickly plunged into the rhythm of the beat. Afterwards laughing and breathless they headed back to the table to quench their thirst before another dance. Harry had seen Snape dancing with Professor McGonagall. He hated to admit it but the man could dance.
"Let's trade dance partners." Hermione said suggested when Neville and Luna arrived for a drink too.
"Sounds like fun." Ginny agreed. "Come on Neville." She grabbed his hand and headed to the floor.
"Hermione?" Harry took her hand and followed leaving Ron with Luna. "How's it going?" Harry asked as they dance.
"Pretty good. We've been missing you though." Hermione gave him a kind smile. "Ron and I didn't mean to shut you out."
"You haven't." Harry assured her. "I know you two will always be there if I need you." Then he frowned. "That's doesn't sound quite right does it? Only going to you if I need something."
"I know what you meant though." Hermione squeezed his hand then she frowned. "How did you get to be such a good dancer?"
"I'm not telling." Harry snorted. "I didn't even tell Ginny, yet."
"You two look wonderful together." Hermione grinned. "Although Ron has been kind of weird. Part of the time he's all for you two getting together then the next moment he brooding about it."
"I think I calmed some of his worries before the dance." Harry said when she looked at him questioningly he added. "I told him I have too much respect for his whole family to do anything that would jeopardize that trust."
"That's exactly what Ron needed to hear Harry." Hermione smiled. "You're getting pretty good at this feeling stuff."
"You know I was thinking. You are like my sister; I should make him give me a similar promise." Harry looked at her appraisingly. To his surprise tears sprang into Hermione's eyes and she gave him a hug.
"That's the nicest thing you ever said to me Harry." She blinked back her tears. "You can be so sweet." Harry saw her bite her lip as if she wanted to say more but held back.
"What?" Harry asked wondering what just went through her mind.
"Oh nothing." But when Harry still stared at her Hermione sighed. "You are so nice and all this stuff happens to you…" She blinked back tears. "It just isn't fair. And I know, life isn't fair but you do get more than your share of heart aches."
"Tell me about it." Harry snorted. Then considering he looked into her eyes. "But for the absence of all the pain, I couldn't and wouldn't give up the friends I have right now."
"Stop it Harry. You're going to make me cry." Hermione laid her head on his shoulder. "Despite what you tell yourself Harry, you are a very special person." She whispered.
"Thanks Hermione." Harry felt a lump in his throat and hoped he wouldn't start blubbering here in the great hall. Luckily for him the dance ended and he took Luna for the next turn around the floor.
"How's it going Luna?" Harry looked into her protuberant eyes.
"Lovely." Luna said.
"Are you and Neville seeing a lot of each other?" Harry asked.
"Oh, now and then. He's really sweet you know." Luna smiled. "Ginny and you look like you were made for each other."
"Uh, Thanks." Harry didn't know what to say to that. "I like your robes. It's a good color for you."
"Thank you. It isn't quite the shade I wanted. I may have to experiment with some charms to brighten them up a bit." Luna said.
"Uh, yeah that might work." Harry swallowed and tried not to laugh. If Luna's robes got any brighter they would burn everyone's eyes out. He thought. Harry glanced over to see Ron and Ginny dancing, grinning at each other. Hermione and Neville moved into view and Harry noticed Neville wasn't stepping on to Hermione's toes.
"Neville looks like he's had a few dance lessons." Harry noted.
"Oh yes, I insisted on it." Luna nodded looking critically at Neville. "Dancing is not to be taken lightly. A person could get seriously hurt with a wrong step."
"Right." Harry agreed, again trying not to laugh.
"It's good to see you happy again, Harry." Luna met his eyes. "You are quite elegant looking tonight, a striking representation of a powerful wizard."
"Thanks." Harry didn't know what else to say as he gazed into the honesty of her eyes.
""You're quite welcome." Luna nodded. "Oh, the song is over." She looked toward the band. "They are very good aren't they?" She added clapping.
"Yes they are. Thanks for the dance Luna." Harry said as they went back to the table.
"Thank you Harry. You are quite a good dancer." Luna spotted Neville and beamed. "But not as good as Neville."
The next song was a slow one and Harry reclaimed Ginny for the dance. As Ginny laid her head against his shoulder Harry felt the swelling in his chest again. With his cheek softly touching hers, Harry swayed Ginny to the music then he felt her sigh and wondered how many times he had sighed since he had taken her into his arms. Nothing in his life had ever felt as good to him as holding Ginny close. "I hope this song never ends." He whispered and felt her sigh again.
"Me too." Ginny breathed and he pulled her closer. Halfway through the dance Harry pulled away a little to look down at the floor. Ginny glanced questioningly at him.
"I just wanted to see if my feet were still on the ground." Harry whispered in her ear and pulling her close again. He felt her giggle and sigh once more. Eventually the tune changed and the pace picked up in the next few sets after which Harry and Ginny paused to quench their thirst with butterbeer.
"Can I have this next dance Ginny?" Dean Thomas asked when Harry and Ginny had risen to go back out on the dance floor.
"Do you mind?" Ginny looked at Harry.
"No not at all." Harry shook his head then glanced across the great hall. "In fact there's someone I want to ask for a dance myself."
"Go on then." Ginny said in an odd voice that confused Harry. But when he saw who was standing near the person he wanted to ask Harry understood. Cho Chang stood in the direction he had glanced and Ginny was, jealous? Harry grinned at he walked closer to his intended goal. Cho's eyes lit up when she saw Harry walking toward her. But he stopped before he reached Cho Chang.
"Professor McGonagall, may I have this dance?" Harry bowed and held out his hand. A rare smile broke on her face.
"I would be honored Mr. Potter." She put her hand in his and let him sweep her on the dance floor. Harry got a fleeting glance of the disappointment on Cho's face as he turned in step with his teacher.
"You have made your dance teacher proud tonight Harry." McGonagall said.
"Thanks, I owe her a lot." Harry grinned.
"I must say Harry, you have the poise and grace tonight of another student I remember." McGonagall told him then added. "And I do not mean your father. Oh James had poise and grace but with a touch of arrogance which diluted those other qualities." She smiled. "No I am reminded of another long ago, when I attended Hogwarts."
"A boy friend?" Harry asked trying to imagine McGonagall as a girl.
"No, he was in seventh year when I was started my first. But he was the type of person one does not forget." McGonagall smiled. "I am speaking of Professor Dumbledore."
"Uh, Thanks." Harry was a little taken aback.
"It was a compliment Potter." She snorted amused. "You and Ms Weasley make a fine couple."
"I keep hearing that." Harry grinned. "Professor Snape doesn't dance half bad."
McGonagall frowned. "Did you put him up to dancing tonight? He never dances at the teachers' parties."
"Runespoor eggs." Harry gave her an evil look.
"That explains it." McGonagall laughed. "I hoped you made a good deal." She chuckled more when Harry told him of the agreement.
"Woe to you if that serpent doesn't lay any eggs." His teacher said.
"I don't have to worry about that." Harry said. Then he spotted Snape dancing with Professor Sprout and again was surprised at how well the man could dance. Too bad Harry thought as the tune ended. He bowed to McGonagall and she thanked him for the dance.
"Why didn't you tell me it was McGonagall you wanted to dance with?" Ginny poked him as he took her from Dean Thomas.
"Ouch." Harry laughed. "Who did you think I was going to ask?"
"Don't play innocent with me. You knew I saw Cho standing there." Ginny poked him again.
"Would it bother you if I had asked her?" Harry asked.
"Well, yeah. A little." Ginny blushed. "Didn't it bother you to see me with Dean?"
"I didn't watch." Harry put bluntly. "I didn't want to see if you two looked good together."
"Oh," Ginny melted. "Everybody keeps saying we look good together."
"Really! I haven't heard anything about it." Harry said innocently.
"Yeah right. You are a lousy liar, Harry." Ginny laughed.
"I think you might be a legilimens Miss Weasley." Harry flinched. "Please keep your powers to yourself."
"I think I'll need all the power I have to keep up with you, Mr. Potter." Ginny grinned and Harry took her off for another waltz around the hall.
After the dance ended, Harry asked Ginny to take a walk outside to cool off. Soon they were walking the conjured garden paths in front of the castle, Harry's hand firmly holding Ginny's. He marveled how a simple thing like holding hands could give him such pleasure. The softness of her skin, how her smaller hand seemed just right for his and especially how she held his hand too.
"It's so pretty out here. The teachers really did go all out for us." Ginny sighed as they passed a statue fountain and a long bench.
"It is beautiful." Harry agreed but he wasn't looking at the castle grounds and when Ginny saw him looking at her she flushed and became unusually shy. "I mean it Ginny I can't take my eyes off you."
"Thanks." Ginny gazed up at him for a few moments then turned to walk on. Harry held her hand so she couldn't move on and drew her back to him. He saw her swallow nervously as he cupped her chin with his free hand.
"Ginny this has been the best night I can remember." Harry leaned in slowly watching her eyes grow larger. Gently Harry touched her lips with his and felt her intake of breath then he slowly deepened the kiss. A warm sensation started in his toes and crept up his entire body. Harry felt there was no more need for the sun. He could merely melt the winter snows away with a kiss from Ginny. All too soon the kiss ended.
"Wow." Harry whispered still holding her cheek.
"Yeah, wow." Ginny agreed. Harry slid his hand down to take her waist but had to awkwardly avoid her breasts.
"What was that?" Ginny giggled leaning her head against his chest.
"I didn't want to touch…well, I want to but I know I'm not supposed to." Harry stuttered then laughed. "Quit laughing. This is supposed to be romantic."
"I'm sorry. Where were we?" Ginny looked up at him innocently. When Harry leaned down to kiss her again their noses banged together. "Ouch."
"Sorry." Harry flinched too. His glasses had jammed against his nose. "I've not had much practice at this to tell you the truth."
Ginny looked at him. "Didn't you and Cho kiss?"
"Well, Cho kissed me. I didn't start it or anything." Harry didn't want the memory of Cho's crying to taint his time with Ginny. "Can I try again?"
"Sure," Ginny nodded but the moment his lip touched hers she began to giggle. "I'm sorry Harry." She got ready again but this time started giggling before he even touched her lips.
"I can see I'm getting no where with this. Want to go dance?" Harry laughed to show her he wasn't mad. "I don't about the affect I have on women. When they kiss me they either burst out cry or dissolve into laughter."
"I said I was sorry." Ginny took his hand. "That first one was really good."
"Thanks." Harry grinned then his face fell, in front of them stood Snape. Then he remembered the deal he had made. "Good evening Professor Snape. Enjoying the dance?"
The snarl on Snape's face would have made first years run for their lives. His eyes narrowed at the confidence in Harry face. "Don't push it Potter. I almost hope the runespoor never produces an egg just so I'd have you in my service."
"Oh, I almost forgot." Harry fished into his robe pocket and withdrew a carefully wrapped package. "Here's half the payment." He held it out to Snape. The man's dark eyes flashed and he licked his lips as if in anticipation.
"Very good Potter." Snape took the egg, weighing it in his hand. "Have any trouble getting it from her? I heard runespoor can be moody about giving up eggs."
"Perhaps but Hapa, Kesho and Giza are very old and are quite used to it." Harry told him.
Biting his lips Snape glanced back to the great hall. "Better get back to the dance Potter, Weasley." He turned on his heel and left.
The last dance of the evening moved slowly and tranquilly. Once again Harry turned Ginny gently around the hall. Her arms were around his neck, his hands on her waist with their foreheads together gazing into each other's eyes. Harry felt his heart swell again as he thought how wonderful this night had been and wished it could go on forever.
When the last note died away Harry experienced a loss when he finally had to let go of Ginny to clap for the band. Then he took her hand and they followed Ron and Hermione out of the great hall. As they made their way up to Gryffindor tower Ron kept looking back at Harry and Ginny who were walking much slower than normal.
"Come on you two." Ron paused, waiting for them.
"Ron, I think Ginny and I know our way back to the common room. You and Hermione go on." Harry glared at Ron. The red-head realized what was going on. Ron grabbed Hermione's hand and hurried on. Hermione gave Harry a grin as she was pulled along.
"My brother is so thick at times." Ginny mused.
"Yeah but he eventually gets the point." Harry said. They walked along in silence for until they reached the seventh floor. Harry pulled her the opposite way from the fat lady's portrait. "I want to say goodnight here. So Ron won't freak out."
"Okay." Ginny said softly and followed him down the corridor and around the corner. Harry stopped and took her other hand.
"Ginny, thank you for the best night I've ever had." Harry leaned closer. "It was such a fun time."
"I had a wonderful time too Harry." Ginny leaned closer too. "I promise not to giggle this time."
A smile flickered on Ginny's lips as Harry kissed them and he carefully drew her into his arms. By the time Harry was finished kissing her, both were rather breathless and neither smiled but gazed amazed at each other at the feelings the kiss invoked. Reluctantly Harry and Ginny released their embrace and walked slowly toward Gryffindor tower.